I'm beginning to wonder if in ten or 15 years time we will be discussing the career of Raheem Sterling as a cautionary career tale for all young footballers. As I previously did here about Nile Ranger, or how many in football discuss the many, many curious transfers of nomadic former French international Nicolas Anelka.
Because, as of right now everything about a fledgling career that was looking extremely good is being diminished with each passing fan comment, journalists tweet and ex-players column. No one is doubting the winger's obvious talent or the difference he made at times to a stuttering Liverpool side but all that work that was applauded on the pitch is quickly being whitewashed by his behaviour off it. And should he fail to meet the potential that was discussed when he was a teenager at Queens Park Rangers, minds more astute than my own will recall this period in his career.
Showing posts with label England. Show all posts
Showing posts with label England. Show all posts
Thursday, 9 July 2015
Tuesday, 9 April 2013
125 of one and 125 of the other.
Rachel Yankey won her 125th cap for England on Sunday. Her 125th international cap.
You would think that would be something to praise and celebrate, wouldn't you? But apparently not.
Apparently the fact that she is only a woman, means that it isn't relevant or important or any sort of achievement in the slightest.
I would laugh, if it wasn't so damn disrespectful, patronising and sexist. But was I surprised? Hell no, because I'm beginning to expect nothing less. As disappointing as that is for me to admit.
Last September when Yankey became England's most capped outfield player, I did an exclusive interview with her. She was a pleasure to speak too, as always. As I'm freelance, I contacted several publications - as I always do - to see if they would be interested in featuring a wonderful player talking about her special moment. Those that got back to me, did not. I often hear that readers don't want to read about women's football, but how do we know if they are not given the option. Readers don't look for women's football, because they don't expect it to be there, it's a vicious circle that needs to be broken. The only publication that were happy to print the article were The Voice, who then featured it on their back page as the lead sports story.
Admittedly, it may have been me and not the article that they didn't want. But I'm not being arrogant when I say that I think it was the subject matte,r they weren't interested in. Despite all the right things that were muttered after our women's national team put on such a successful showing at London 2012, we can all see nothing much has really changed.
So, on Monday I went through the papers and their websites as I always do. And I was surprised, some had actually taken notice of what must be the proudest moment in the midfielder's life. I was happy, no scratch that, ecstatic to see that Yankey and women's football in general were getting some much needed and deserved recognition. And about time too! Until I looked at the comments below the line. A fellow, more experienced sports journalist once told me: 'Never look below the line'. After all this time, you would think I would've learnt. Because he's normally bloody right!
The majority of that negative consensus was that the Arsenal star's achievement had no right being compared to Peter Shilton's because women's football isn't at the same level as its male counterpart. And later that night on Twitter, there were similar statements as well as the woefully sexist: 'So what?'
Just to clear something up, no one is comparing women's football to the men's game. No one is comparing Yankey to David Beckham. We wouldn't compare Beth Tweddle to Louis Smith, nor Christine Ohuruogu to Michael Johnson, would we? So why can we not have the same respect in football that we show to the competitors in athletics.
Yankey's achievement should be celebrated for the amazing individual benchmark that it is and we should be proud to say she is English and has been so committed to her national team over such a lengthy period of time. Particularly given the fact that when she first started her journey, she played alongside the boys because there were no women's team for her to compete in. Funny how she was good enough for the boys then...
The joke is; those that say her record number of caps is irrelevant because she supposedly plays at a lower standard, would still celebrate or congratulate a San Marino player who reaches the same number. Even though their FIFA ranking makes theirs the lowest standard of all.
I don't care who you are, to appear so many times for your country at the highest level available to you, is amazing.
So the next time those people are making their sarcastic comments, maybe they should sit and think.
About what they have achieved in their life, about the disrespect they show to someone who has spent their whole life trying to achieve their dream.
And about England's equal most capped football player. Who just happens to be a Woman...
You would think that would be something to praise and celebrate, wouldn't you? But apparently not.
Apparently the fact that she is only a woman, means that it isn't relevant or important or any sort of achievement in the slightest.
I would laugh, if it wasn't so damn disrespectful, patronising and sexist. But was I surprised? Hell no, because I'm beginning to expect nothing less. As disappointing as that is for me to admit.
Last September when Yankey became England's most capped outfield player, I did an exclusive interview with her. She was a pleasure to speak too, as always. As I'm freelance, I contacted several publications - as I always do - to see if they would be interested in featuring a wonderful player talking about her special moment. Those that got back to me, did not. I often hear that readers don't want to read about women's football, but how do we know if they are not given the option. Readers don't look for women's football, because they don't expect it to be there, it's a vicious circle that needs to be broken. The only publication that were happy to print the article were The Voice, who then featured it on their back page as the lead sports story.
Admittedly, it may have been me and not the article that they didn't want. But I'm not being arrogant when I say that I think it was the subject matte,r they weren't interested in. Despite all the right things that were muttered after our women's national team put on such a successful showing at London 2012, we can all see nothing much has really changed.
So, on Monday I went through the papers and their websites as I always do. And I was surprised, some had actually taken notice of what must be the proudest moment in the midfielder's life. I was happy, no scratch that, ecstatic to see that Yankey and women's football in general were getting some much needed and deserved recognition. And about time too! Until I looked at the comments below the line. A fellow, more experienced sports journalist once told me: 'Never look below the line'. After all this time, you would think I would've learnt. Because he's normally bloody right!
The majority of that negative consensus was that the Arsenal star's achievement had no right being compared to Peter Shilton's because women's football isn't at the same level as its male counterpart. And later that night on Twitter, there were similar statements as well as the woefully sexist: 'So what?'
Just to clear something up, no one is comparing women's football to the men's game. No one is comparing Yankey to David Beckham. We wouldn't compare Beth Tweddle to Louis Smith, nor Christine Ohuruogu to Michael Johnson, would we? So why can we not have the same respect in football that we show to the competitors in athletics.
Yankey's achievement should be celebrated for the amazing individual benchmark that it is and we should be proud to say she is English and has been so committed to her national team over such a lengthy period of time. Particularly given the fact that when she first started her journey, she played alongside the boys because there were no women's team for her to compete in. Funny how she was good enough for the boys then...
The joke is; those that say her record number of caps is irrelevant because she supposedly plays at a lower standard, would still celebrate or congratulate a San Marino player who reaches the same number. Even though their FIFA ranking makes theirs the lowest standard of all.
I don't care who you are, to appear so many times for your country at the highest level available to you, is amazing.
So the next time those people are making their sarcastic comments, maybe they should sit and think.
About what they have achieved in their life, about the disrespect they show to someone who has spent their whole life trying to achieve their dream.
And about England's equal most capped football player. Who just happens to be a Woman...
Monday, 18 March 2013
Only a Phonecall Away.
He's in the squad.
But he's not going.
He is going.
Now he's definitely not.
Not a moment too quick, the Rio Ferdinand and England drama has come to an end. The joke is, it could have all been prevented if Roy Hodgson had just bothered to pick up the phone. It's so simple, it's not even funny.
For months, the whispers to recall Ferdinand have got louder and the England manager finally decided to listen yet doing it in the manner that he did; hasn't done him any favours.
We can all agree that the defender currently playing for the Champions-elect is not the injury-hit player of 18 months ago. His performances and the injuries and inconsistency of others, means he fully deserves a place in the squad. If not the team.
It was clear that Ferdinand and the medical team at Manchester United had worked hard to find a system that allowed him to play regularly, without any serious problems. So it's curious that the England boss didn't think to contact the club and/or the player before calling him up.
Given the way the defender was left at home prior to Euro 2012, some may also feel an apology should have been on offer. He was clearly aggrieved by Hodgson's decision to more-or-less take John Terry's side, while there are also the 'football reasons' that have never quite been explained.
Sir Alex Ferguson's comments last week were no surprise. The manager has long been vocal that Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs' decisions to retire, helped them prolong their club careers. But as well as thinking about the best interests of his club, he is thinking about the best interests of his player. At the age of 34, the former Leeds star is in the last lap of his top-flight career, it is logical that he would also want to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
That is why it is understandable the player has pulled out of the double header against San Marino and Montenegro. Two games that require a fair amount of travel and also games that England should win without too much fuss. The decision to meet and explain to the manager, makes it hard for many to question Ferdinand's motives or doubt his commitment to his national side.
As for Hodgson, it could be said he won't come out of this so well. His subdued character is a stark change from previous national managers such as Fabio Capello, but it appears to be working well enough with two wins and two draws from four qualifying games.
But you have to admit, this situation could have been easily prevented. That much is clear. Hodgson or his team don't appear to be on the ball in regards to what is going on with English players. An area they should know inside and out. Surely that is part of his job description?
Maybe this is the time for the England manager to become more thorough, and make sure he knows exactly what is going on with the professionals who are available to play for him.
Because when or if things go wrong, he may end up looking like a bit of a bumbling fool.
But he's not going.
He is going.
Now he's definitely not.
Not a moment too quick, the Rio Ferdinand and England drama has come to an end. The joke is, it could have all been prevented if Roy Hodgson had just bothered to pick up the phone. It's so simple, it's not even funny.
For months, the whispers to recall Ferdinand have got louder and the England manager finally decided to listen yet doing it in the manner that he did; hasn't done him any favours.
We can all agree that the defender currently playing for the Champions-elect is not the injury-hit player of 18 months ago. His performances and the injuries and inconsistency of others, means he fully deserves a place in the squad. If not the team.
It was clear that Ferdinand and the medical team at Manchester United had worked hard to find a system that allowed him to play regularly, without any serious problems. So it's curious that the England boss didn't think to contact the club and/or the player before calling him up.
Given the way the defender was left at home prior to Euro 2012, some may also feel an apology should have been on offer. He was clearly aggrieved by Hodgson's decision to more-or-less take John Terry's side, while there are also the 'football reasons' that have never quite been explained.
Sir Alex Ferguson's comments last week were no surprise. The manager has long been vocal that Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs' decisions to retire, helped them prolong their club careers. But as well as thinking about the best interests of his club, he is thinking about the best interests of his player. At the age of 34, the former Leeds star is in the last lap of his top-flight career, it is logical that he would also want to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
That is why it is understandable the player has pulled out of the double header against San Marino and Montenegro. Two games that require a fair amount of travel and also games that England should win without too much fuss. The decision to meet and explain to the manager, makes it hard for many to question Ferdinand's motives or doubt his commitment to his national side.
As for Hodgson, it could be said he won't come out of this so well. His subdued character is a stark change from previous national managers such as Fabio Capello, but it appears to be working well enough with two wins and two draws from four qualifying games.
But you have to admit, this situation could have been easily prevented. That much is clear. Hodgson or his team don't appear to be on the ball in regards to what is going on with English players. An area they should know inside and out. Surely that is part of his job description?
Maybe this is the time for the England manager to become more thorough, and make sure he knows exactly what is going on with the professionals who are available to play for him.
Because when or if things go wrong, he may end up looking like a bit of a bumbling fool.
Saturday, 2 March 2013
The Curious Tale of Nile Ranger
What do you call someone who has been arrested six times since May 2011?
Well, probably not a successful professional footballer. Which I'm guessing is why Newcastle United announced they had cancelled Nile Ranger's contract last week.
Ranger's is a curious situation. A former forward for England's under-19 team - playing 11 games and scoring six goals. Yet he now finds himself without a club and possibly, without a future in the game at the age of just 21.
And the worst thing about the whole matter is the fact that it's not really a surprise.
His first serious brush with the law came at the age of 15. The teenager was convicted of participating in a street robbery and sentenced to 11 weeks in a youth offenders institute.
Now I'm not one for judging someone by a mistake or the errors they made in their younger years, as we've all made mistakes. None of us are infallible.
But despite the talent he is lucky enough to have and the opportunities this has afforded him, Ranger doesn't appear to have learnt anything since that very first offence.
He has continued to position himself in both compromising and illegal situations.
His rap sheet consists of; assault, being drunk and disorderly and criminal damage. The most worrying and most recent charge is the suspicion of rape. A case that is currently ongoing at the time of writing.
And that doesn't even include The Football Association fine for posting tweets deemed to be homophobic, the breach of bail, the photo of himself with a replica gun or the evening he kicked his front door down because he believed his girlfriend was being kidnapped.
There is an urge to giggle reading the latter or chastise him for wasting the lifestyle that so many crave, but I can't help but wonder if there is a bigger issue behind all these incidents.
As far as we know the Londoner doesn't have any addictions, but it's obvious he enjoys a drink given the incidents he's been involved in. Maybe it is the company he keeps or his crew as the kids call it. It is not uncommon for high earners to attract hanger-on's whose only aim is to get them to spend money. The type of people who couldn't care less about whether Ranger will be late for training again.
Of course that doesn't make him the innocent party, he is an adult and at his age should know right from wrong. But we all know the saying: if you lay down with dogs, you're gonna get fleas.
But any sympathy starts to wane when you also consider his conduct in and around the club. While his 51 League appearances only yielded three goals. Habitually tardy for sessions, he had been demoted and was actually training with the reserves the week he was charged with being drunk and disorderly. A charge that eventually led to a £135 fine and six-month conditional discharge.
Admittedly Ranger isn't the first and won't be the last to mess up, but my hope is that he is still young enough to see what's going on and redirect himself from this negative path he appears to be on.
Maybe there is an underlying issue, whether that be an addition or something relating to his mental health. Something he can seek help for, work on and move forward from. Both are illnesses that affect a higher percentage of sportspeople, than the national average. It's feasible that Ranger could be one of those.
In a way I hope he does have an issue, because at least then he can seek help from The PFA and others. Then he can find a way to deal with it, rebuild his reputation and attempt to kick-start his career.
Yet at the same point; maybe there is nothing wrong, maybe that's just how he is. Maybe I'm just trying to understand why a young guy would continue to act out and make his position at a club untenable. Instead of putting yourself in situations that are preventable. As right now, I can't understand why you wouldn't just keep your head down and put your graft in on the pitch.
And I'll tell you why.
Because the alternative is that he just doesn't care, and to me that's the scariest scenario of them all.
Well, probably not a successful professional footballer. Which I'm guessing is why Newcastle United announced they had cancelled Nile Ranger's contract last week.
Ranger's is a curious situation. A former forward for England's under-19 team - playing 11 games and scoring six goals. Yet he now finds himself without a club and possibly, without a future in the game at the age of just 21.
And the worst thing about the whole matter is the fact that it's not really a surprise.
His first serious brush with the law came at the age of 15. The teenager was convicted of participating in a street robbery and sentenced to 11 weeks in a youth offenders institute.
Now I'm not one for judging someone by a mistake or the errors they made in their younger years, as we've all made mistakes. None of us are infallible.
But despite the talent he is lucky enough to have and the opportunities this has afforded him, Ranger doesn't appear to have learnt anything since that very first offence.
He has continued to position himself in both compromising and illegal situations.
His rap sheet consists of; assault, being drunk and disorderly and criminal damage. The most worrying and most recent charge is the suspicion of rape. A case that is currently ongoing at the time of writing.
And that doesn't even include The Football Association fine for posting tweets deemed to be homophobic, the breach of bail, the photo of himself with a replica gun or the evening he kicked his front door down because he believed his girlfriend was being kidnapped.
There is an urge to giggle reading the latter or chastise him for wasting the lifestyle that so many crave, but I can't help but wonder if there is a bigger issue behind all these incidents.
As far as we know the Londoner doesn't have any addictions, but it's obvious he enjoys a drink given the incidents he's been involved in. Maybe it is the company he keeps or his crew as the kids call it. It is not uncommon for high earners to attract hanger-on's whose only aim is to get them to spend money. The type of people who couldn't care less about whether Ranger will be late for training again.
Of course that doesn't make him the innocent party, he is an adult and at his age should know right from wrong. But we all know the saying: if you lay down with dogs, you're gonna get fleas.
But any sympathy starts to wane when you also consider his conduct in and around the club. While his 51 League appearances only yielded three goals. Habitually tardy for sessions, he had been demoted and was actually training with the reserves the week he was charged with being drunk and disorderly. A charge that eventually led to a £135 fine and six-month conditional discharge.
Admittedly Ranger isn't the first and won't be the last to mess up, but my hope is that he is still young enough to see what's going on and redirect himself from this negative path he appears to be on.
Maybe there is an underlying issue, whether that be an addition or something relating to his mental health. Something he can seek help for, work on and move forward from. Both are illnesses that affect a higher percentage of sportspeople, than the national average. It's feasible that Ranger could be one of those.
In a way I hope he does have an issue, because at least then he can seek help from The PFA and others. Then he can find a way to deal with it, rebuild his reputation and attempt to kick-start his career.
Yet at the same point; maybe there is nothing wrong, maybe that's just how he is. Maybe I'm just trying to understand why a young guy would continue to act out and make his position at a club untenable. Instead of putting yourself in situations that are preventable. As right now, I can't understand why you wouldn't just keep your head down and put your graft in on the pitch.
And I'll tell you why.
Because the alternative is that he just doesn't care, and to me that's the scariest scenario of them all.
Thursday, 28 February 2013
A Step in the Right Direction
The news that Lazio will be made to play two games behind closed doors suggests that football's top table may finally be catching up with the rest of us, when it comes to dealing with racism.
Following the fourth incident this season of racism by their fans, UEFA have ordered the Italian club to play their next two competitive European games behind closed doors. (As well as a €40,000 fine, which is pretty much irrelevant in this case.) The first game will be their Europa League last-16 tie against Stuttgart on March 14.
As we know, this wasn't the first time or a solitary incident involving a handful of people. There had been three previous occasions where supporters actions had drawn negative attention to the club. There were issues both home and away against Tottenham, as well as when they hosted Maribor in the group stages. The straw that broke the camels back came against Borussia Monchengladbach when around 300 fans were observed making Nazi salutes.
I'm not going to suggest this is a racist club because many clubs - including those in England - have bigots posing as fans. But the fact that there were that many problems in such a short space of time, must raise questions for those at the helm of the club. This is not a new problem or a first offence, which suggests whatever has been tried to stop it and them hasn't worked.
So for Claudio Lotito to call the punishment 'abnormal and absured'; is frankly naive and well, absurd.
UEFA have a responsibility to all of us, not the feelings of any individual club. And for once, they appear to be acting on behalf of the 'us'.
The two lost match day's will lose the club millions, a significant amount for a top flight club in today's economic climate.
As owner/president Lotito told RaiSport: "It will seriously damage the club economically and stop the fans from participating in the event.
"We cannot as a club be penalised for the mistakes of a small minority."
But that where he's wrong, the authorities can and they have too. Because it is the only way the idiots will learn, by being restricted and prevented from doing what they want.
Of course it's unfortunate for the thousands of decent fans. But if it's the only way to ensure a club deals with the scum, then the end will justify the means.
The club already had a suspended sentence hanging over their head, so in their continual fight to regain some credibility UEFA had to act. And rightly did.
Hopefully this will be the precedent for club's being punished. It may take time, but it can only help and encourage club's to rid their stadiums of racists and racist action.
Which is why they've hit Lazio where all businesses feel it most, in their pocket.
The club had already been warned, which means their fans had already been warned. Yet the latter chose to continue with their behaviour, so rightly the club has now been punished for that.
In his interview with RaiSport, the owner adds: "Everyone knows how much we did to prevent this sort of thing from happening."
Well, whatever you did Mr Lotito, it wasn't enough. Maybe now everyone will do a little bit more.
Wednesday, 6 February 2013
Praise the Career, Ignore the Character
Peter Shilton, David Beckham, Bobby Moore, Sir Bobby Charlton, Billy Wright, Steven Gerrard. And tonight against Brazil; Ashley Cole will join that sacred club of players who have been capped 100 times for England.
I genuinely believe that Cole deserves to take his place in history and write his name in the record books.
As a Gooner, I may have had my issues with the Chelsea player in the past; but as a football fan it is virtually impossible to see why his ability isn't celebrated in the same way as past and current teammates such as Beckham and Gerrard.
For me, he has been the most consistent England international of the last decade and I would imagine the first name on most England boss' teamsheets.
As well as the 99 caps he's collected in an England shirt, he has made 359 league appearances for Arsenal, Chelsea and Crystal Palace; where he spent time on loan.
Since his senior début in 1998; Cole has won three Premier League titles, SEVEN FA Cups, one League Cup, three Community Shields and ol' big ears himself; the Champions League. Not many Englishmen can boast a bigger haul than that.
Admittedly, the defender has made mistakes in his life. But which one of us can say we haven't?
The point is his personal errors should not detract from what has been and continues to be an amazing career, in an age where many young players fall off the radar after a handful of games. The skill and commitment it takes to play a century of games for your country is rare and something to be heavily championed.
As part of the so-called Golden Generation that has failed time and again, the Londoner has never once been accused of not giving his all or being a shirker when the game is going against England.
So tonight when his name is called out, I hope the Wembley crowd cheer the man for what he has achieved in his career and the standard he has maintained over the last 14 years. Rather than the mistakes he has made to make him end up as this weeks tabloid fodder.
I genuinely believe that Cole deserves to take his place in history and write his name in the record books.
As a Gooner, I may have had my issues with the Chelsea player in the past; but as a football fan it is virtually impossible to see why his ability isn't celebrated in the same way as past and current teammates such as Beckham and Gerrard.
For me, he has been the most consistent England international of the last decade and I would imagine the first name on most England boss' teamsheets.
As well as the 99 caps he's collected in an England shirt, he has made 359 league appearances for Arsenal, Chelsea and Crystal Palace; where he spent time on loan.
Since his senior début in 1998; Cole has won three Premier League titles, SEVEN FA Cups, one League Cup, three Community Shields and ol' big ears himself; the Champions League. Not many Englishmen can boast a bigger haul than that.
Admittedly, the defender has made mistakes in his life. But which one of us can say we haven't?
The point is his personal errors should not detract from what has been and continues to be an amazing career, in an age where many young players fall off the radar after a handful of games. The skill and commitment it takes to play a century of games for your country is rare and something to be heavily championed.
As part of the so-called Golden Generation that has failed time and again, the Londoner has never once been accused of not giving his all or being a shirker when the game is going against England.
So tonight when his name is called out, I hope the Wembley crowd cheer the man for what he has achieved in his career and the standard he has maintained over the last 14 years. Rather than the mistakes he has made to make him end up as this weeks tabloid fodder.
Saturday, 30 June 2012
Hope Springs Eternal
HOPE POWELL didn’t surprise many with the Team GB Ladies
football squad that she announced at Wembley stadium, on June 26.
The squad of 18 featured only two non-English players in
Scottish internationals, Kim Little and Ifeoma Dieke. While Scot Jane Ross, and
Emma Higgins from Northern Ireland, are among the four reserves.
Thursday, 28 July 2011
I'm Not Laughing Anymore
I don't know what was worse when the new FIFA World Rankings came out. The fact that we all know we don't deserve to be fourth or the fact that the other countries media have picked up on it.
It's Sepp Blatter's first deliberately funny joke, and the England team are the punchline.
Although; lets be honest, the joke has been on us for a while. And like the one your Uncle tells every Christmas, it's no longer funny.
For years, our so-called 'golden generation' of footballers have been talked up even though they routinely disappoint. Tournament after tournament England are discussed as challengers with everyone from - that years - Prime Minister to your local newsagent getting in on the act. Even the bookies wind us up, quoting 5-1, when it should be more like 12s. Who really believes England are in competition with Spain and Brazil?
Lets get real, we haven't won a trophy since that World Cup in 1966. We haven't made it to a final since then. And lets not to talk about the failure to even qualify. We all blamed Steve McLaren after the fiasco but he was not one of the well renumerated young men on the pitch.
So when are we going to stop hiding what has been staring us in the face for years?
England just aren't good enough.
The reality is we haven't been 'real' competitors in international ootball for many years. The sooner we admit it, the sooner we can change that fact.
Not since Euro 1996 have we looked like a team. Not a real one. In my opinion, anyway. There have been eleven men on the pitch but they are clearly not playing for each other. Does anyone know who they are playing for?
You only have to look at the Rio - Terry - captaincy fiasco to see all is not well. If John Terry 'did' sleep with another players partner; he showed a lack of respect for his family and for his teammates. As well as the game. I believe Fabio Capello was right to take the honour away from him. But to give it back and ridicule Rio in the process was unacceptable.
An off-field incident became part of what was occuring on the field.
Maybe this is why lil Jack Wilshere has been such a revelation. I know he is going to be a fabulous talent. I saw him against Wigan in the Carling Cup, a couple of years ago. He was amazing then, and that was against Premier League opposition. You know he wants to do his best for England, as a player AND as a fan.
Maybe now is the time for change. Let's go to Euro 2012 with a new team and a fresh mentality. Anything but stay as we are, because it's just not working.
We look sterile on the pitch and I always expect us to struggle against a good team. Club wise our domestic teams compete every year but our national team cannot.
Maybe now is the time for change. Let's go to Euro 2012 with a new team and a fresh mentality. Yes, the new players will be less experienced but it's time for an overhaul.
Well, it can't be any worse than it is now.
It's Sepp Blatter's first deliberately funny joke, and the England team are the punchline.
Although; lets be honest, the joke has been on us for a while. And like the one your Uncle tells every Christmas, it's no longer funny.
For years, our so-called 'golden generation' of footballers have been talked up even though they routinely disappoint. Tournament after tournament England are discussed as challengers with everyone from - that years - Prime Minister to your local newsagent getting in on the act. Even the bookies wind us up, quoting 5-1, when it should be more like 12s. Who really believes England are in competition with Spain and Brazil?
Lets get real, we haven't won a trophy since that World Cup in 1966. We haven't made it to a final since then. And lets not to talk about the failure to even qualify. We all blamed Steve McLaren after the fiasco but he was not one of the well renumerated young men on the pitch.
So when are we going to stop hiding what has been staring us in the face for years?
England just aren't good enough.
The reality is we haven't been 'real' competitors in international ootball for many years. The sooner we admit it, the sooner we can change that fact.
Not since Euro 1996 have we looked like a team. Not a real one. In my opinion, anyway. There have been eleven men on the pitch but they are clearly not playing for each other. Does anyone know who they are playing for?
You only have to look at the Rio - Terry - captaincy fiasco to see all is not well. If John Terry 'did' sleep with another players partner; he showed a lack of respect for his family and for his teammates. As well as the game. I believe Fabio Capello was right to take the honour away from him. But to give it back and ridicule Rio in the process was unacceptable.
An off-field incident became part of what was occuring on the field.
Maybe this is why lil Jack Wilshere has been such a revelation. I know he is going to be a fabulous talent. I saw him against Wigan in the Carling Cup, a couple of years ago. He was amazing then, and that was against Premier League opposition. You know he wants to do his best for England, as a player AND as a fan.
Maybe now is the time for change. Let's go to Euro 2012 with a new team and a fresh mentality. Anything but stay as we are, because it's just not working.
We look sterile on the pitch and I always expect us to struggle against a good team. Club wise our domestic teams compete every year but our national team cannot.
Maybe now is the time for change. Let's go to Euro 2012 with a new team and a fresh mentality. Yes, the new players will be less experienced but it's time for an overhaul.
Well, it can't be any worse than it is now.
Tuesday, 3 May 2011
Racism Still Kicking!
Just like most of you I was watching Barcelona v Real Madrid, enjoying the wonders of Messi and hoping there would be less theatrics than last week. Wondering where the hell Jose was and wondering how many fouls Ricardo Carvalho would make before he got a seccond yellow.
Then in the second half, Emmanual Adebayor replaced Higuin up front for Real Madrid. At first, I thought I was hearing things but after turning up the TV and sitting quietly I knew I wasn't. This wasn't my imagination, I really was hearing monkey chants. In the year 2011 when the United States of America has a black President and some of the World biggest stars are people of colour, the ignorance of some people still continues to shock and disgust me.
As an Arsenal fan, I'm not a lover of Adebayor but I would not wish that kind of bile on my worst enemy. No person should ever have to suffer abuse because of their heritage, sexuality or sex. It is not acceptable and it should not be tolerated.
Luckily in England it happens very rarely and if it does the bigot is usually given a lifetime ban from the club. But in other parts of Europe this continues to be a regular occurance. The problem for me is that when it does occur FIFA and UEFA do too little about it. Either it is brushed under the carpet or the club/country is given a paltry fine. An amount so small it wouldn't even cover a weeks wages of the average player.
If they are supposed to be the masters/ the headteachers of all things football; how can they allow such things to continue?
They preach of their commitment to diversity within this beautiful game yet they ignore events such as this. If Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini feel they deserve their seats at football's top table, this is the time for them to prove it. Create a clear set of rules and punishments - should the club/country allow it to continue - to keep this ignorant hatred from spoiling our games.
The Kick Racism out of Football campaign has been going strong in this country and I am proud to say I have not seen or heard any of this filth while watching football. Maybe that is why there are so many foreign players in the UK compared to other countries. Because we welcome everyone with open arms and judge them by their person, not by their colour.
If other countries did the same, imagine how great our wonderful game would be.
Then in the second half, Emmanual Adebayor replaced Higuin up front for Real Madrid. At first, I thought I was hearing things but after turning up the TV and sitting quietly I knew I wasn't. This wasn't my imagination, I really was hearing monkey chants. In the year 2011 when the United States of America has a black President and some of the World biggest stars are people of colour, the ignorance of some people still continues to shock and disgust me.
As an Arsenal fan, I'm not a lover of Adebayor but I would not wish that kind of bile on my worst enemy. No person should ever have to suffer abuse because of their heritage, sexuality or sex. It is not acceptable and it should not be tolerated.
Luckily in England it happens very rarely and if it does the bigot is usually given a lifetime ban from the club. But in other parts of Europe this continues to be a regular occurance. The problem for me is that when it does occur FIFA and UEFA do too little about it. Either it is brushed under the carpet or the club/country is given a paltry fine. An amount so small it wouldn't even cover a weeks wages of the average player.
If they are supposed to be the masters/ the headteachers of all things football; how can they allow such things to continue?
They preach of their commitment to diversity within this beautiful game yet they ignore events such as this. If Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini feel they deserve their seats at football's top table, this is the time for them to prove it. Create a clear set of rules and punishments - should the club/country allow it to continue - to keep this ignorant hatred from spoiling our games.
The Kick Racism out of Football campaign has been going strong in this country and I am proud to say I have not seen or heard any of this filth while watching football. Maybe that is why there are so many foreign players in the UK compared to other countries. Because we welcome everyone with open arms and judge them by their person, not by their colour.
If other countries did the same, imagine how great our wonderful game would be.
Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.7
Thursday, 10 February 2011
Denmark 1 - 2 England: Match Report - International Friendly
For once an England friendly wasn't as meaningless as we anticipated. In fact we actually learnt something for a change. Mostly, that Jack Wilshere is not the answer to Fabio Capello's obsessive search for a defensive midfielder. The Arsenal starlet had a good 45 minutes in his first senior International start, making some strong but honest tackles as well as looking confident alongside the England squad veterans. But he needs the freedom to play his natural offensive game, something that was evident when he linked up well with Wayne Rooney and Darren Bent in the 30th minute.
Thursday, 18 November 2010
England 1 - 2 France Review
Oh England, England, England.
Oh Capello, Capello, Capello.
Maybe international friendlies aren't a waste of time and money.
What exactly did we learn? Other than the fact that Fabio looks like a twat in a hat!
So here is what I learnt:
*THEO WALCOTT lacks confidence playing for England and it doesn't help when people try to pass the ball, 8 yards behind him.
*England rely on STEVIE G in the same way that Liverpool do. And let's be honest, it ain't bloody fair. He can't be expected to be the player to create everything.
*KIERAN GIBBS is struggling for match fitness and even though it was his first start he will be made a scapegoat for this debacle.
*If GARETH BARRY is the answer, then what the hell is the question?
*Neither ANDY CARROLL nor JORDAN HENDERSON are ready to be regulars in the senior team. Let them continue their education under Stuart Pearce.
*BEN FOSTER is not good enough to be our No.1, his positioning was poor all night and he clearly cannot organise his defence properly. Do they even have any confidence in him?
*PETER CROUCH must be the unluckiest man in the world not to be the first name on the team sheet. Whether or not you like his style of play is irrelevant. His scoring record speaks for itself. He came on and scored our only goal with his first touch! Need I say more?
*France showed us exactly what is possible when you respect and understand your manager and what he asks of you. They played with freedom, they played without fear. And more importantly, they actually played football and attacked us.
Overall it was a disappointing showing by England and I don't buy the fact it was a young team. There was a spine of RIO, STEVIE G, BARRY, MILNER and WALCOTT, all experienced internationally and regular starters. The veterans should have been guiding and talking to the newbies, particularly in a defense that was constantly breached. I continue to wonder if RIO is the right man to wear the Captain's armband.
Once again we look lacking of ideas when playing 'good' international teams. According to FIFA we are 15 places ABOVE France in the World Ranking. Though on tonights showing, it should surely be the other way round.
I'd love to know what you learnt tonight. Feel free to comment.
Oh Capello, Capello, Capello.
Maybe international friendlies aren't a waste of time and money.
What exactly did we learn? Other than the fact that Fabio looks like a twat in a hat!
So here is what I learnt:
*THEO WALCOTT lacks confidence playing for England and it doesn't help when people try to pass the ball, 8 yards behind him.
*England rely on STEVIE G in the same way that Liverpool do. And let's be honest, it ain't bloody fair. He can't be expected to be the player to create everything.
*KIERAN GIBBS is struggling for match fitness and even though it was his first start he will be made a scapegoat for this debacle.
*If GARETH BARRY is the answer, then what the hell is the question?
*Neither ANDY CARROLL nor JORDAN HENDERSON are ready to be regulars in the senior team. Let them continue their education under Stuart Pearce.
*BEN FOSTER is not good enough to be our No.1, his positioning was poor all night and he clearly cannot organise his defence properly. Do they even have any confidence in him?
*PETER CROUCH must be the unluckiest man in the world not to be the first name on the team sheet. Whether or not you like his style of play is irrelevant. His scoring record speaks for itself. He came on and scored our only goal with his first touch! Need I say more?
*France showed us exactly what is possible when you respect and understand your manager and what he asks of you. They played with freedom, they played without fear. And more importantly, they actually played football and attacked us.
Overall it was a disappointing showing by England and I don't buy the fact it was a young team. There was a spine of RIO, STEVIE G, BARRY, MILNER and WALCOTT, all experienced internationally and regular starters. The veterans should have been guiding and talking to the newbies, particularly in a defense that was constantly breached. I continue to wonder if RIO is the right man to wear the Captain's armband.
Once again we look lacking of ideas when playing 'good' international teams. According to FIFA we are 15 places ABOVE France in the World Ranking. Though on tonights showing, it should surely be the other way round.
I'd love to know what you learnt tonight. Feel free to comment.
Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
England v France Preview
There was a big, huge announcement today. In case you didn't hear it, here it is:
Fabio Capello is starting with at least three players under 30! I know, I was shocked as well. I mean, I didn't know he could count that low.
No, all jokes aside I'm a little bit impressed with Mr Capello's squad choices this time around. Hey, I only said a little. And not just with his squad choices but with the team we're hearing he will start with. It's a team that mixes expperience and youth and a team that points all the way to 2012.
KEVIN DAVIES of Bolton Wanderers has my sympathy on missing out on the squad, but on the basis that this friendly is all about planning for the future then his inclusion would've gone against that. I was a little shocked to see CARLTON COLE called up, I like him as a player but he is not even first choice for his club. Which goes against Capello's 'must be playing regularly' manifest.
As for JAY BOTHROYD, all I can say is congratulations. I remember his time at Arsenal and the cloud he left under clearly damaged his early career. But you have to respect the way he has learnt from his mistakes and rebuilt his career at Cardiff. The way he has matured is commendable. Having watched JORDAN HENDERSON a few times this season, his cap will not be a surprise to me. He is a talented young man and under the tutelage of Steve Bruce, I have the feeling he will go far.
JACK WILSHERE will be disappointed to be out of contention but as an Arsenal fan, I'm secretly glad he'll be resting and hopefully he'll be fit for the North London derby on Saturday morning. But, I think it can be agreed he has lots of time to become an England regular. I'm happy that KEIRAN GIBBS will be starting, after his injury problems it will be a good run out for him. It will also give him the opportunity to show why he is being called the natural successor to Ashley Cole.
French manager Laurent Blanc has played down his teams' abilities. Since the abysmal events at the World Cup the French have been in a transition period. Like Capello, the former World Cup Winner is rebuilding for the future as well as attempting to restore his nation's faith in the national team. Although he didn't make it to South Africa, SAMIR NASRI should start tomorrow. Hopefully he can take his club form to Wembley and inspire his team mates. They will still be without PATRICE EVRA who is still serving his ban, for going on strike during the WC. It will be down to the new boys to show they are good enough to keep their places when the qualifiers re-commence in March.
POSSIBLE STARTING LINE-UPS
ENGLAND: Foster; Richards, Ferdinand, Lescott, Gibbs; Walcott, Barry, Henderson, Gerrard, Milner; Carroll.
FRANCE: Lloris; Sagna, Rami, Moxes, Abidal; Gourcuff, M'vila, Nasri; Valbuena, Benzema, Malouda.
Fabio Capello is starting with at least three players under 30! I know, I was shocked as well. I mean, I didn't know he could count that low.
No, all jokes aside I'm a little bit impressed with Mr Capello's squad choices this time around. Hey, I only said a little. And not just with his squad choices but with the team we're hearing he will start with. It's a team that mixes expperience and youth and a team that points all the way to 2012.
KEVIN DAVIES of Bolton Wanderers has my sympathy on missing out on the squad, but on the basis that this friendly is all about planning for the future then his inclusion would've gone against that. I was a little shocked to see CARLTON COLE called up, I like him as a player but he is not even first choice for his club. Which goes against Capello's 'must be playing regularly' manifest.
As for JAY BOTHROYD, all I can say is congratulations. I remember his time at Arsenal and the cloud he left under clearly damaged his early career. But you have to respect the way he has learnt from his mistakes and rebuilt his career at Cardiff. The way he has matured is commendable. Having watched JORDAN HENDERSON a few times this season, his cap will not be a surprise to me. He is a talented young man and under the tutelage of Steve Bruce, I have the feeling he will go far.
JACK WILSHERE will be disappointed to be out of contention but as an Arsenal fan, I'm secretly glad he'll be resting and hopefully he'll be fit for the North London derby on Saturday morning. But, I think it can be agreed he has lots of time to become an England regular. I'm happy that KEIRAN GIBBS will be starting, after his injury problems it will be a good run out for him. It will also give him the opportunity to show why he is being called the natural successor to Ashley Cole.
French manager Laurent Blanc has played down his teams' abilities. Since the abysmal events at the World Cup the French have been in a transition period. Like Capello, the former World Cup Winner is rebuilding for the future as well as attempting to restore his nation's faith in the national team. Although he didn't make it to South Africa, SAMIR NASRI should start tomorrow. Hopefully he can take his club form to Wembley and inspire his team mates. They will still be without PATRICE EVRA who is still serving his ban, for going on strike during the WC. It will be down to the new boys to show they are good enough to keep their places when the qualifiers re-commence in March.
POSSIBLE STARTING LINE-UPS
ENGLAND: Foster; Richards, Ferdinand, Lescott, Gibbs; Walcott, Barry, Henderson, Gerrard, Milner; Carroll.
FRANCE: Lloris; Sagna, Rami, Moxes, Abidal; Gourcuff, M'vila, Nasri; Valbuena, Benzema, Malouda.
Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
Oh! Wayne!
To be honest, I was trying to avoid the Rooney saga but even I can't ignore this.
Sir Alex Ferguson's press conference was candid. To say the least. He has played his hand and now we wait to see if Wayne will check or fold.
So he REALLY wants to leave, Manchester United fans are already up in arms calling Wayne things I couldn't possibly type here ;-)
The point is though: are we honestly surprised?
This is a player who has never felt shy about coming forward. We've all commented on his suspect temperament before. A man who cheats on his pregnant wife. Not just cheats but pays a escort to see him on a regular basis and allegedly participates in a threesome. A man who regularly goes against the orders of his manager - fag anyone! A player who made a snide remark to England fans who had spent their wages to watch him perform like pub player* in South Africa. Not forgetting the fact, he engineered a move away from Everton. Now who taught him how to do that, I wonder.....
So, no I'm not surprised. In fact, more surprising is that he hasn't thrown his toys out of the pram earlier. When he contradicted Sir Alex in the press about his injury, it appears to have been the final straw for the Scot.
Watching the press conference, I actually felt sorry for Sir Alex. He looked like a father who was hurt and confused after the betrayal of his youngest son. With the continual speculation in the press, he had two choices. Continue to lie and try and win the player back or be honest with the fans and media (for a change).
Thankfully, he chose the latter. Firstly, it's great news and secondly the fans that hero worship Rooney deserve to know the facts.
So here they are. Simply: Rooney wants to leave, Man United have offered him a new contract which he is not interested in. Said contract is still on the table if the player changes his mind. Now it's all out in the media, we're all waiting for Rooney's side of the story. And if he did change his mind, is there really anyway back for him now?
With 18 months left on his contract, it would be best for the club to sell him in the January transfer window, particularly with the state of their finances. Though Wayne may wish to see out his contract possibly leaving Sir Alex in the dilemma of using a player who know longer cares for the team.
So, who would have him? Of course Manchester City would love to steal another player from under Sir Alex's nose but would he sell to them. Chelsea have tightened the purse strings but I'm sure Abramovich would authorise spending on England's biggest star. Or he could fly away, with Barcelona and Real Madrid the earlier favourites. Yet, as a girl I have to wonder what Coleen would think about leaving her family. She has a seriously ill sister and may not wish to emigrate with a man she is learning to trust again. Nor, could I see Wayne dealing particularly well in a less physical league, foreign referee's would have a red card frenzy.
What more can I say? Not much, so I'll leave the final words to Sir Alex: "The one thing I said to him was 'respect this club', I don't want any nonsense from you.
"I don't know if he has done that. I have doubts on that, we are reading all these things about falling out with me and all that nonsense.
"It's disappointing because we have done everything we possibly can to help Wayne Rooney ever since he came to the club.
*No disrespect meant to any pub players.
Sir Alex Ferguson's press conference was candid. To say the least. He has played his hand and now we wait to see if Wayne will check or fold.
So he REALLY wants to leave, Manchester United fans are already up in arms calling Wayne things I couldn't possibly type here ;-)
The point is though: are we honestly surprised?
This is a player who has never felt shy about coming forward. We've all commented on his suspect temperament before. A man who cheats on his pregnant wife. Not just cheats but pays a escort to see him on a regular basis and allegedly participates in a threesome. A man who regularly goes against the orders of his manager - fag anyone! A player who made a snide remark to England fans who had spent their wages to watch him perform like pub player* in South Africa. Not forgetting the fact, he engineered a move away from Everton. Now who taught him how to do that, I wonder.....
So, no I'm not surprised. In fact, more surprising is that he hasn't thrown his toys out of the pram earlier. When he contradicted Sir Alex in the press about his injury, it appears to have been the final straw for the Scot.
Watching the press conference, I actually felt sorry for Sir Alex. He looked like a father who was hurt and confused after the betrayal of his youngest son. With the continual speculation in the press, he had two choices. Continue to lie and try and win the player back or be honest with the fans and media (for a change).
Thankfully, he chose the latter. Firstly, it's great news and secondly the fans that hero worship Rooney deserve to know the facts.
So here they are. Simply: Rooney wants to leave, Man United have offered him a new contract which he is not interested in. Said contract is still on the table if the player changes his mind. Now it's all out in the media, we're all waiting for Rooney's side of the story. And if he did change his mind, is there really anyway back for him now?
With 18 months left on his contract, it would be best for the club to sell him in the January transfer window, particularly with the state of their finances. Though Wayne may wish to see out his contract possibly leaving Sir Alex in the dilemma of using a player who know longer cares for the team.
So, who would have him? Of course Manchester City would love to steal another player from under Sir Alex's nose but would he sell to them. Chelsea have tightened the purse strings but I'm sure Abramovich would authorise spending on England's biggest star. Or he could fly away, with Barcelona and Real Madrid the earlier favourites. Yet, as a girl I have to wonder what Coleen would think about leaving her family. She has a seriously ill sister and may not wish to emigrate with a man she is learning to trust again. Nor, could I see Wayne dealing particularly well in a less physical league, foreign referee's would have a red card frenzy.
What more can I say? Not much, so I'll leave the final words to Sir Alex: "The one thing I said to him was 'respect this club', I don't want any nonsense from you.
"I don't know if he has done that. I have doubts on that, we are reading all these things about falling out with me and all that nonsense.
"It's disappointing because we have done everything we possibly can to help Wayne Rooney ever since he came to the club.
*No disrespect meant to any pub players.
Wednesday, 13 October 2010
The Fall and Fall of Fabio
Can things really get worse?
YES
Are our first 11 really that mediocre?
YES
4 year contract you say?
MADNESS
So here we are again, a few months later but us England fans are just as miserable as ever. We thought the 'Wally with the Brolly' was bad, but Don Fabio seems content on making Steve Mc look like Sir Bobby.
Montenegro at Wembley, even the bookies thought it was a home banker.
But England, oh no. They like to make us sweat, make us smoke an extra five fags, scream that bit louder at the tv. Because..... well because they're England, that's why.
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Not much, so I'll just say it my way.
*Rooney is not right! I dunno if he's lacking fitness or the scrutiny of his personal life is too much. Either way he's not the Wazza we know and pretend to love - when he sticks on a three Lions shirt. He's never been the most composed of fellas but he looks lost and searching for something. Maybe Sir Alex shouldn't have given him those three weeks off as it certainly hasn't done him any good.
*Gerrard should have stayed as Captain. Lack of continuity has never helped anyone and personally I feel Stevie G shows more of the fighting spirit we need than Rio.
*It's time for change. After the dismal South African adventure, Fabio, the FA et al talked about change. Not just the personnel but the approach. He's chucked in a few new players but the majority are exactly the same. Who to omit you ask? Well I'd start with Barry, Glen Johnson and Lescott for a start. Really, do you think you would miss them? I wouldn't, I know that.
*And finally, get rid of Fabio. I don't care how much it would have cost but he should've gone when we left the World Cup.
I'm not saying he's not a good manager, I'm just saying he's not a good manager for us.
YES
Are our first 11 really that mediocre?
YES
4 year contract you say?
MADNESS
So here we are again, a few months later but us England fans are just as miserable as ever. We thought the 'Wally with the Brolly' was bad, but Don Fabio seems content on making Steve Mc look like Sir Bobby.
Montenegro at Wembley, even the bookies thought it was a home banker.
But England, oh no. They like to make us sweat, make us smoke an extra five fags, scream that bit louder at the tv. Because..... well because they're England, that's why.
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Not much, so I'll just say it my way.
*Rooney is not right! I dunno if he's lacking fitness or the scrutiny of his personal life is too much. Either way he's not the Wazza we know and pretend to love - when he sticks on a three Lions shirt. He's never been the most composed of fellas but he looks lost and searching for something. Maybe Sir Alex shouldn't have given him those three weeks off as it certainly hasn't done him any good.
*Gerrard should have stayed as Captain. Lack of continuity has never helped anyone and personally I feel Stevie G shows more of the fighting spirit we need than Rio.
*It's time for change. After the dismal South African adventure, Fabio, the FA et al talked about change. Not just the personnel but the approach. He's chucked in a few new players but the majority are exactly the same. Who to omit you ask? Well I'd start with Barry, Glen Johnson and Lescott for a start. Really, do you think you would miss them? I wouldn't, I know that.
*And finally, get rid of Fabio. I don't care how much it would have cost but he should've gone when we left the World Cup.
I'm not saying he's not a good manager, I'm just saying he's not a good manager for us.
Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.3
Wednesday, 8 September 2010
Oh, Rooney!
Once again a scandal in a players private life is threatening to overshadow events within our national game.
For the past few months there have been murmurs in the football world regarding an England player and a super-injunction. Following the John Terry-Vanessa Peronccel-Wayne Bridge saga, the public interest has again been peaked about footballers and what exactly goes on in their personal lives.
The Ball Drops
During Friday evening, whispers on the Internet stated the ‘unnamed’ player had failed to renew the injunction. By Saturday afternoon, we all knew the player in question was the married, and father-of-one, Wayne Rooney.
Sunday was spent with regular news bulletin’s on Rooney possibly being omitted from the squad for the Switzerland match. A fact later confirmed as untrue by the FA Press Office. While the tabloid newspapers were full of stories about his alleged affair with an escort girl, including several pages of interviews with said female.
England’s footballers were again being talked about as sordid, duplicitous and immoral young men. Rather than as talented and privileged individuals.
Frivolity Before Football
With England playing their second qualifying match against Switzerland on Tuesday; it cannot have come at a worse time for the team and their beleaguered manager, Fabio Capello. As this story broke they were preparing to travel to Basle.
It may do the other players well that all eyes will be on Rooney rather than their individual performances. Although it’s a pity the behaviour of these well-paid players has again become more relevant than team decisions and first full caps.
Of course everyone is entitled to their privacy but in an age where sports stars make a high percentage of their income by selling themselves as a brand, they must expect this high level of interest in all aspects of their life. Surely, they cannot expect to sell certain parts of their lifestyles to the media and public yet complain when the less favourable points are publicised.
Role Models, My Arse!
"You are role models whether you like it or not." (Guardian Sport : 6/9/2010) Who said that? Wayne Rooney did. Somewhat unfortunately one might say, they are role models and ambassadors for our country on a world-wide scale. What example are they sending to their fans? What examples are they showing the world, of England and its sports stars?. So if he is aware of this fact, what does this say about his alleged behaviour?
It’s possible that he doesn’t care. Why would he? He’s rich, he’s young and is living the dream most boys dream of. This scandal won’t affect him past the abuse he will receive from opposing fans. Unless of course, Colleen leaves him. But how likely is that? Lets be honest, why would he care what any of us think? Who are we to him? Other than the people that contribute towards his wages, that is.
But maybe it is not all his fault. Society as a whole has to take a certain responsibility as they laud those who have done very little to deserve it. Everywhere, and including the world of football, we have became a nation that praises celebrity over substance. And maybe that is part of the problem, the pressure we put on these young men to behave to a level they cannot meet. We expect them to behave in a manner that we do not expect of ourselves.
They may be well paid, idolised and living their dream. But when all is said and done, they are young men who happen to be good at playing a ball game.
And more importantly, just like the rest of us, they are just human.
For the past few months there have been murmurs in the football world regarding an England player and a super-injunction. Following the John Terry-Vanessa Peronccel-Wayne Bridge saga, the public interest has again been peaked about footballers and what exactly goes on in their personal lives.
The Ball Drops
During Friday evening, whispers on the Internet stated the ‘unnamed’ player had failed to renew the injunction. By Saturday afternoon, we all knew the player in question was the married, and father-of-one, Wayne Rooney.
Sunday was spent with regular news bulletin’s on Rooney possibly being omitted from the squad for the Switzerland match. A fact later confirmed as untrue by the FA Press Office. While the tabloid newspapers were full of stories about his alleged affair with an escort girl, including several pages of interviews with said female.
England’s footballers were again being talked about as sordid, duplicitous and immoral young men. Rather than as talented and privileged individuals.
Frivolity Before Football
With England playing their second qualifying match against Switzerland on Tuesday; it cannot have come at a worse time for the team and their beleaguered manager, Fabio Capello. As this story broke they were preparing to travel to Basle.
It may do the other players well that all eyes will be on Rooney rather than their individual performances. Although it’s a pity the behaviour of these well-paid players has again become more relevant than team decisions and first full caps.
Of course everyone is entitled to their privacy but in an age where sports stars make a high percentage of their income by selling themselves as a brand, they must expect this high level of interest in all aspects of their life. Surely, they cannot expect to sell certain parts of their lifestyles to the media and public yet complain when the less favourable points are publicised.
Role Models, My Arse!
"You are role models whether you like it or not." (Guardian Sport : 6/9/2010) Who said that? Wayne Rooney did. Somewhat unfortunately one might say, they are role models and ambassadors for our country on a world-wide scale. What example are they sending to their fans? What examples are they showing the world, of England and its sports stars?. So if he is aware of this fact, what does this say about his alleged behaviour?
It’s possible that he doesn’t care. Why would he? He’s rich, he’s young and is living the dream most boys dream of. This scandal won’t affect him past the abuse he will receive from opposing fans. Unless of course, Colleen leaves him. But how likely is that? Lets be honest, why would he care what any of us think? Who are we to him? Other than the people that contribute towards his wages, that is.
But maybe it is not all his fault. Society as a whole has to take a certain responsibility as they laud those who have done very little to deserve it. Everywhere, and including the world of football, we have became a nation that praises celebrity over substance. And maybe that is part of the problem, the pressure we put on these young men to behave to a level they cannot meet. We expect them to behave in a manner that we do not expect of ourselves.
They may be well paid, idolised and living their dream. But when all is said and done, they are young men who happen to be good at playing a ball game.
And more importantly, just like the rest of us, they are just human.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)