http://www.fulham-mad.co.uk/news/loadgnrl.asp?id=250744&teamno=129 Had I known how important that Panama match was I would've flown in for it.
I got talked into the dubs once, while drinking at 10am, and I haven't looked back. Well I don't know who those people are, but if I meet them, I'll say hello.
Here's a good example of stupidity from the BBC. There are only 3 players in the Scotland squad that are younger than McFadden, Garry O'Conner, Darren Fletcher and Scott Brown and O'Conner is only a month younger. Faddy is 22, he's hardly making way for youth. If McFadden doesn't play it's because we have BETTER options than him at the moment, not younger options.
From the article http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/4425736.stm You know, the funny thing about that quote is that it was true 10 years ago! Lalas, Wynalda, Harkes & Cobi. The bigger differences between then and now are better first 11 quality, more squad depth, and Bruce Arena. And I could make a solid argument that all three of those are directly a result of MLS.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/4425736.stm "Many of their fans at home even expect them to win the World Cup itself in Germany next summer." uhmm.. yeah.
All the media love Walter Smith, that's because he's nice to everyone and tells them what they want to hear. It bugs me but he is a good manager so I won't complain too much!
It would be a lot more fun for managers to tell us what they really think of their opponents. But, their job is to win, not entertain me. So, you typically get flattering, bland comments, so as not to motivate your opponents. I really don't blame Smith at all for it--he's just being a good manager. I just hope we don't start believing it ourselves. If there is anything the USA excels at in soccer, it is hard work and determination, which I believe comes in part from an underdog mentality and not getting respect. If we ever start believing that countries like Scotland will roll over for us, then we'll get our azzez handed to us. (But, I really don't think that's a problem for Arena or the players (just a few of the fans).)
he would still be at Everton had he taken his academy coaches advice.....and played Rooney when he was 15....
He does have a bit of a weakness when it comes to playing young players. He'll always stick with the guys he knows, even if they are shite beyond belief i.e. Neil McCann.