Burnley = destroyed. Robbie Keane = bloody lethal. To paraphrase a well known and distinctly average rock band, his sex really was on fire.
Spurs comfortably got back to winning ways at the weekend with another comprehensive win, this time over struggling travellers Burnley. They may be insanely formidable on their home Turf (Moor) but they've yet to crack the art of getting points on the road. Not that it would have particularly mattered had they played much better, however. Spurs dominated the game in every sense of the phrase with the omnipresent Keane playing a starring role, to confound those who questioned his ability upon returning to the Lane last year.
A couple of goals generally represents a good game for a striker. A hat trick is tantamount to a great game. Four goals is something, quite frankly, freakish and it brought back stirring memories of the long lost Dimitar Berbatov and his quadruple salvo against Reading back in 2007 - I may have mentioned that once or twice on here. Keane, who many believed shouldn't have played at the weekend, didn't just take his chances spectacularly well. He got himself into some fantastic attacking positions on the pitch and on another day could have racked up a few more. Just the four will do, Robbie.
After two demoralising defeats in two games, Redknapp would have wanted his senior players to put their hands up and take charge of the game. And Keane did just that as he led a team with a defensive casualty list akin to a Rambo body count to a reassuring win. They won't be sounding the top four sirens just yet but it's another positive step in the right direction. The magical thing, however, is the run of games coming up. The likes of Bolton, Stoke and Portsmouth shouldn't give the players too many sleepless nights although vigilance will be needed to avoid potential upsets.
Back to Keane, though and his place was under threat after Peter Crouch's midweek hat trick led to many an enthusiastic call for his inclusion in the side. But, undeterred, the plucky Irishman reminded many why he should be regarded as one of the best all round strikers in the Premier League. He may not always grab the goals in the manner of, say, Jermain Defoe or Crouch but his teamwork and all round game is just sublime at times. A cajoling influence both on and off the pitch, he also runs like the proverbial Roadrunner and creates space aplenty for his team mates. It was extremely heartening to see him finally grab some goals to silence the doubters and remind everyone at the Lane of his true worth.
Burnley did had their moments; notably, the offside goal that massively should have been given. But it takes a very good team to come to the Lane and outplay Spurs these days and, with all due respect, Burnley were always unlikely to be that team. Still, they gave a reasonable account of themselves at times and if they could learn to draw or even score away from home they might be a half decent side.
Speaking of half decent, Jermaine Jenas also had an enjoyable game, even having the temerity to win the Player of the Weekend award from The Times. As someone who has a bit of time for Jenas, it's nice to see him have a good game, especially when he's been out of the side with injury for the early part of the season. But how many more times are we going to say that he had a great game only to be reminded that it was against piss poor opposition? If JJ ever wants to be regarded amongst England's better midfielders, he'll have to learn to dominate against the best teams or at least become a bit more influential.
But one does hate to moan at such prosperous times. 4th place after 7 games represents a jolly good start and, as mentioned, there's every chance of it getting even better in the coming weeks. And I don't know about everyone else but I'm already feverishly anticipating a visit to the Emirates on Halloween. In the words of Kevin Keegan, I would love it, just love it, if we beat those arrogant Gooner scummers. Hope springs eternal and all that.
29 September 2009
26 September 2009
Same old Arsenal
Robin Van Persie has had something to say in the press on the subject of diving.
Need I say anymore? Cheers Robin - sometimes you make it far too easy.
Need I say anymore? Cheers Robin - sometimes you make it far too easy.
Dusting oneself off and starting again
I know, I know. It's been a few weeks. And words alone can't atone for my absence. The shocking truth is that over the last two weeks I've been swamped with going away, moving house and generally not having time to sit down and offer my collective musings on Spurs. And for that I apologise sincerely. Now, let's move on swiftly.
We lost to Chelsea. Standard. The fact that we were denied a couple of slap-in-the-face obvious penalties was annoyingly predictable but in the end it mattered little as we were steamrollered by their attacking might. Ledley King managed just over half a game before limping out of proceedings and we subsequently crumbled. The media knives may have sharpened as a result of a second loss in two but realists would have known that the future was still bright and that the glory of three points wouldn't be far off (fingers crossed).
In between then and today's clash with Burnley was another tricky little Carling Cup visit to a Football League side. And in the battle of the Lilywhite teams (Preston North End), we battered them. 5-1 Wednesdays are becoming something of a luxury to Spurs fans this season with a whopping three already chalked up this year. Peter Crouch stole the headlines with a clinical hat trick - a perfect example of a player hovering around the fringes of the first team taking his chance to impress. Take note, Pav.
So Burnley at the Lane today - last years Carling Cup semi final foes. On paper, it's looking like a home banker. Defoe, Crouch, Keane, Lennon, etc... these enterprising footballers should have it in them to see off a side of Burnley's calibre, with all due respect. But lest we remember that they were a few short minutes away from pulling off the shock comeback of all shock comebacks last season at Turf Moor in the CC.
However, they may be formidable at home but they're a soft touch away and with the attacking groove and effervescent confidence flowing through this Spurs side, you'd be forgiven for lumping your money on the Yids. I would be, if I had any.
It's a reasonable and winnable run of games coming up over the next few weeks and the perfect way to ease into a long season. If there is a positive to come from losing two on the bounce, it's that the euphoria of the early season is now more muted and Redknapp can get the best out of his team without worrying about a pesky little unbeaten run. It's tough at the top.
3-1 Spurs. COYS.
We lost to Chelsea. Standard. The fact that we were denied a couple of slap-in-the-face obvious penalties was annoyingly predictable but in the end it mattered little as we were steamrollered by their attacking might. Ledley King managed just over half a game before limping out of proceedings and we subsequently crumbled. The media knives may have sharpened as a result of a second loss in two but realists would have known that the future was still bright and that the glory of three points wouldn't be far off (fingers crossed).
In between then and today's clash with Burnley was another tricky little Carling Cup visit to a Football League side. And in the battle of the Lilywhite teams (Preston North End), we battered them. 5-1 Wednesdays are becoming something of a luxury to Spurs fans this season with a whopping three already chalked up this year. Peter Crouch stole the headlines with a clinical hat trick - a perfect example of a player hovering around the fringes of the first team taking his chance to impress. Take note, Pav.
So Burnley at the Lane today - last years Carling Cup semi final foes. On paper, it's looking like a home banker. Defoe, Crouch, Keane, Lennon, etc... these enterprising footballers should have it in them to see off a side of Burnley's calibre, with all due respect. But lest we remember that they were a few short minutes away from pulling off the shock comeback of all shock comebacks last season at Turf Moor in the CC.
However, they may be formidable at home but they're a soft touch away and with the attacking groove and effervescent confidence flowing through this Spurs side, you'd be forgiven for lumping your money on the Yids. I would be, if I had any.
It's a reasonable and winnable run of games coming up over the next few weeks and the perfect way to ease into a long season. If there is a positive to come from losing two on the bounce, it's that the euphoria of the early season is now more muted and Redknapp can get the best out of his team without worrying about a pesky little unbeaten run. It's tough at the top.
3-1 Spurs. COYS.
12 September 2009
That's why we're (not) champions
So much for that then. The sizzling atmosphere generated by the White Hart Lane crowd worked in part for Jermain Defoe's sensational opener but United's multiple Premier League winning experience was simply too much of a barrier for us to break down. First defeat of the season. It's the end of the world. Sack the board.
Whilst we looked threatening in parts, the truth is United are simply a much better team than us. If they were going to play to their strengths then they would likely beat us. And play to their strengths they certainly did. Apparently three Premier League titles in a row does actually count for something.
Annoyingly, Match of the Day were still sprouting their 'Spurs are definitely aiming for the top four this season' rubbish. Gary Linekar, of all people, even felt the need to ask Alan Hansen whether this defeat showed that it was a false dawn for Tottenham. It's one game. Against the league champions. Calm down, dearest.
Still, that lovely little unbeaten run is now unfortunately at a sad end. It'll be some time before we're sitting with the Gods up in first place again. Attention will turn to next Sunday's tasty derby with Chelsea, surely another tough, nigh-on-impossible game. We've had our success over Chelsea over the past few years and didn't lose to them once last season. But they're in title winning form and, although we'll pose a threat, don't be too surprised if we don't win 4-0.
Back to today though and our defensive shortcomings. Well, the shortcomings that followed Defoe's incredulous overhead kick. Again the value of Peter Crouch's height was in evidence as he cushioned BAE's excellent cross into the path of England's second most talked about striker (the first being Wayne Rooney). Good strikers would have tried to hook the ball in from standing or take a touch. An excellent striker like Defoe chose the overhead option and was richly rewarded.
But, like all good things, our lead would soon come to an end. Carlo Cudicini was going apoplectic at the positioning of his wall for their first goal. And with good reason - the tallest man, Crouch (of course he is), meekly prodded his head forward in a vain attempt to block whereas Ledley King and Robbie Keane on the end of the wall gave Ryan Giggs just the tantalising gap he needed to dink the ball through them en route to the back of the net. 1-1. Game on.
Their second was doubtless down to poor marking as an unmarked Anderson found time and space and, ultimately, the back of the net. He chose a weird, 'gunning-down' celebration in front of the Spurs faithful, as if he was half mocking the home fans, half bigging up his own ability. Overpaid idiot. Still, 2-1 down at half time wasn't a awful outcome and with three strikers on the pitch, anything was possible. Except that Keane isn't much of a left winger and couldn't really contribute to the best of his ability.
Jermaine Jenas made his first appearance of the season and initially (and typically) looked rather good, with a beautiful curling effort pushed wide by Ben Foster. But he, along with Tottenham, faded. Even the harsh sending off of Paul Scholes failed to stoke Tottenham's attacking fires and, when Rooney turned Alan Hutton and Cudicini inside out for a superb solo effort, the game was up. Speaking of Scholes' dismissal, the second yellow he received was unwarranted but his first was for a horrendous, awfully timed lunge on Defoe. He might just be the worst tackler I have ever seen play football. He's just incapable of putting in a well timed challenge.
As for the Spurs players, it was a mixed effort. Defoe was predictably lively but was starved slightly by a lack of consistent service. Aaron Lennon made one blistering run through the heart of the United midfield and defence but had his difficulties against Patrice Evra and was eventually moved out the left to avoid him. Wilson Palacios and Tommy Huddlestone were competent but couldn't dominate the midfield battle and once Sgt. Wilson was subbed off, The Hudd was unable to keep up, even with his new and improved 'pace'.
They'll be much to learn for Redknapp and he'll have a better idea about his side's weaknesses. The West Ham fans in the media will doubtless proclaim a crisis at the Lane and deride us for failing in our plans to reach the Promised Land of the top four. Mugs. But with any luck Redknapp has taught his players to quickly forget a demoralising defeat (they'll likely have had plenty of practice). Chelsea away isn't the most ideal of next games but, nevertheless, represents an opportunity to get back on the proverbial horse. The 'horse', in this case, being a winning run. Simples.
12 points 5 games. It's still a great start. And for any fans out there feeling the pain of returning to the darkness of defeat, bare in mind where we were this time last year...
Told you so.
Whilst we looked threatening in parts, the truth is United are simply a much better team than us. If they were going to play to their strengths then they would likely beat us. And play to their strengths they certainly did. Apparently three Premier League titles in a row does actually count for something.
Annoyingly, Match of the Day were still sprouting their 'Spurs are definitely aiming for the top four this season' rubbish. Gary Linekar, of all people, even felt the need to ask Alan Hansen whether this defeat showed that it was a false dawn for Tottenham. It's one game. Against the league champions. Calm down, dearest.
Still, that lovely little unbeaten run is now unfortunately at a sad end. It'll be some time before we're sitting with the Gods up in first place again. Attention will turn to next Sunday's tasty derby with Chelsea, surely another tough, nigh-on-impossible game. We've had our success over Chelsea over the past few years and didn't lose to them once last season. But they're in title winning form and, although we'll pose a threat, don't be too surprised if we don't win 4-0.
Back to today though and our defensive shortcomings. Well, the shortcomings that followed Defoe's incredulous overhead kick. Again the value of Peter Crouch's height was in evidence as he cushioned BAE's excellent cross into the path of England's second most talked about striker (the first being Wayne Rooney). Good strikers would have tried to hook the ball in from standing or take a touch. An excellent striker like Defoe chose the overhead option and was richly rewarded.
But, like all good things, our lead would soon come to an end. Carlo Cudicini was going apoplectic at the positioning of his wall for their first goal. And with good reason - the tallest man, Crouch (of course he is), meekly prodded his head forward in a vain attempt to block whereas Ledley King and Robbie Keane on the end of the wall gave Ryan Giggs just the tantalising gap he needed to dink the ball through them en route to the back of the net. 1-1. Game on.
Their second was doubtless down to poor marking as an unmarked Anderson found time and space and, ultimately, the back of the net. He chose a weird, 'gunning-down' celebration in front of the Spurs faithful, as if he was half mocking the home fans, half bigging up his own ability. Overpaid idiot. Still, 2-1 down at half time wasn't a awful outcome and with three strikers on the pitch, anything was possible. Except that Keane isn't much of a left winger and couldn't really contribute to the best of his ability.
Jermaine Jenas made his first appearance of the season and initially (and typically) looked rather good, with a beautiful curling effort pushed wide by Ben Foster. But he, along with Tottenham, faded. Even the harsh sending off of Paul Scholes failed to stoke Tottenham's attacking fires and, when Rooney turned Alan Hutton and Cudicini inside out for a superb solo effort, the game was up. Speaking of Scholes' dismissal, the second yellow he received was unwarranted but his first was for a horrendous, awfully timed lunge on Defoe. He might just be the worst tackler I have ever seen play football. He's just incapable of putting in a well timed challenge.
As for the Spurs players, it was a mixed effort. Defoe was predictably lively but was starved slightly by a lack of consistent service. Aaron Lennon made one blistering run through the heart of the United midfield and defence but had his difficulties against Patrice Evra and was eventually moved out the left to avoid him. Wilson Palacios and Tommy Huddlestone were competent but couldn't dominate the midfield battle and once Sgt. Wilson was subbed off, The Hudd was unable to keep up, even with his new and improved 'pace'.
They'll be much to learn for Redknapp and he'll have a better idea about his side's weaknesses. The West Ham fans in the media will doubtless proclaim a crisis at the Lane and deride us for failing in our plans to reach the Promised Land of the top four. Mugs. But with any luck Redknapp has taught his players to quickly forget a demoralising defeat (they'll likely have had plenty of practice). Chelsea away isn't the most ideal of next games but, nevertheless, represents an opportunity to get back on the proverbial horse. The 'horse', in this case, being a winning run. Simples.
12 points 5 games. It's still a great start. And for any fans out there feeling the pain of returning to the darkness of defeat, bare in mind where we were this time last year...
Told you so.
11 September 2009
Return of the glamour fixtures
Ah the Premier League. How I've missed you over the last week or so. Your absence has deprived me of the chance to witness Spurs pick up another precious three points and that trend is certain to continue come tomorrow afternoon with the visit of league champions Manchester United... on second thoughts, I'll get me coat.
Having said that, there's not that much to be fearful about when Sir Alex brings his Ronaldo-less troops down to N17 on Saturday. I'll stop short of predicting we'll do well; I said we had chances back in April and after going two goals up, my predictions were slammed back in my face via the power of Howard Webb's whistle and a dodgy penalty. Still, four wins from four games is tantamount to a shed load of confidence brimming through this young and exuberant side and in their current form you wouldn't bet against them achieving anything.
United are notoriously sluggish starters to a league campaign, much like ourselves. Their defeat away at Burnley was evidence to prove that particular theory and one suspects that they won't be that eager for their trip to the Lane. Their last two visits have brought only two draws - draws that, if they're honest, they were lucky to get. Only a 95th minute Carlos Tevez equaliser saved them in 2008 whereas the following winter, Tottenham outplayed them with nothing to show for it.
If they are suffering a Cristiano Ronaldo hangover then it's entirely understandable. To lose a player of his magnificent influence will obviously take a game or two to come to terms with. Much like it was for us losing Dimitar Berbatov and Robbie Keane last season. Speaking of Berbatov, expect him to get a slightly frosty reception from the baying hordes. His standing as a hate figure will hopefully diminish in time as he is a simply a wonderful player to watch. When he's trying, that is.
For Tottenham, there are defensive injury concerns aplenty. Sebastien Bassong only went and provided an injury scare whilst playing for Cameroon in midweek but he should be fit to play alongside Ledley King at the heart of the back four. New boy Niko Kranjcar, possibly smarting from his countries 5-1 mauling at Wembley, will probably slot in on the left wing in place of his crocked compatriot Luka Modric. Spurs still have an injury list to rival a body count from Die Hard: Gomes, Dawson, Woodgate, Bale, Jenas, Modric are all first team players closer to the physios bed than the playing field.
But if momentum is this weeks current buzzword then Tottenham have it in spades. The win over Liverpool on the opening day was proof to the players that they had it in them to take on and beat the best. They'll be choc full of belief against Man Utd and will genuinely think they can get something from the contest. A point will do, as always, though. It's easy to let momentum get in the way of realism sometimes and we must remember that Ferguson brings with him a more than competent outfit. Wayne Rooney is no mug and the likes of Berbatov, Michael Owen and Michael Carrick aren't to be dismissed to easily. Believe that a win is possible, by all means, but do not judge them should they fail.
Personally I'm plumping for a score draw. As good as United can be, I'm not convinced they've shaken off their early season lethargy yet and will be taken aback come the first pacey, swift attack from the carefree home team. Their class should shine through at some point but Tottenham will be eager to keep them on the back foot for as long as they can. As ever, keep an eye on Jermain Defoe, who is making scoring look fiendishly easy at the moment and watch Aaron Lennon too, who will be keen to prove his Wembley heroics were not just a flash in the proverbial pan.
The winning streak could possibly be about to end but, regardless, Spurs have built a platform with which they can succeed and should the weekend bring defeat, Spurs fans should relax in the knowledge that it's not the end of the world. Tottenham vs Manchester Untied is tradionally one of the glamour fixtures in the league season and there's no reason why this years contest will be any different.
COYS.
Having said that, there's not that much to be fearful about when Sir Alex brings his Ronaldo-less troops down to N17 on Saturday. I'll stop short of predicting we'll do well; I said we had chances back in April and after going two goals up, my predictions were slammed back in my face via the power of Howard Webb's whistle and a dodgy penalty. Still, four wins from four games is tantamount to a shed load of confidence brimming through this young and exuberant side and in their current form you wouldn't bet against them achieving anything.
United are notoriously sluggish starters to a league campaign, much like ourselves. Their defeat away at Burnley was evidence to prove that particular theory and one suspects that they won't be that eager for their trip to the Lane. Their last two visits have brought only two draws - draws that, if they're honest, they were lucky to get. Only a 95th minute Carlos Tevez equaliser saved them in 2008 whereas the following winter, Tottenham outplayed them with nothing to show for it.
If they are suffering a Cristiano Ronaldo hangover then it's entirely understandable. To lose a player of his magnificent influence will obviously take a game or two to come to terms with. Much like it was for us losing Dimitar Berbatov and Robbie Keane last season. Speaking of Berbatov, expect him to get a slightly frosty reception from the baying hordes. His standing as a hate figure will hopefully diminish in time as he is a simply a wonderful player to watch. When he's trying, that is.
For Tottenham, there are defensive injury concerns aplenty. Sebastien Bassong only went and provided an injury scare whilst playing for Cameroon in midweek but he should be fit to play alongside Ledley King at the heart of the back four. New boy Niko Kranjcar, possibly smarting from his countries 5-1 mauling at Wembley, will probably slot in on the left wing in place of his crocked compatriot Luka Modric. Spurs still have an injury list to rival a body count from Die Hard: Gomes, Dawson, Woodgate, Bale, Jenas, Modric are all first team players closer to the physios bed than the playing field.
But if momentum is this weeks current buzzword then Tottenham have it in spades. The win over Liverpool on the opening day was proof to the players that they had it in them to take on and beat the best. They'll be choc full of belief against Man Utd and will genuinely think they can get something from the contest. A point will do, as always, though. It's easy to let momentum get in the way of realism sometimes and we must remember that Ferguson brings with him a more than competent outfit. Wayne Rooney is no mug and the likes of Berbatov, Michael Owen and Michael Carrick aren't to be dismissed to easily. Believe that a win is possible, by all means, but do not judge them should they fail.
Personally I'm plumping for a score draw. As good as United can be, I'm not convinced they've shaken off their early season lethargy yet and will be taken aback come the first pacey, swift attack from the carefree home team. Their class should shine through at some point but Tottenham will be eager to keep them on the back foot for as long as they can. As ever, keep an eye on Jermain Defoe, who is making scoring look fiendishly easy at the moment and watch Aaron Lennon too, who will be keen to prove his Wembley heroics were not just a flash in the proverbial pan.
The winning streak could possibly be about to end but, regardless, Spurs have built a platform with which they can succeed and should the weekend bring defeat, Spurs fans should relax in the knowledge that it's not the end of the world. Tottenham vs Manchester Untied is tradionally one of the glamour fixtures in the league season and there's no reason why this years contest will be any different.
COYS.
9 September 2009
Defoe deserves an opportunity
Should Jermain Defoe be starting for England ahead of Emile Heskey?
After the Slovenia friendly, where JD netted a fabulous goal and demonstrated more of his outrageously good form, I made the case in conversation that he shouldn't. My reasoning being that Heskey, for all the clumsiness and complete and utter lack of goals that he brought to the table, garnered the best form out of Wayne Rooney. His American Football-like frame was the perfect instrument for holding the ball up and providing the flicks and deft touches required for our Wayne to latch onto.
Simply put, I opined that I'd rather have a top form Rooney than a top form Defoe. If that sounds harsh on the Spurs man then I apologise as it is more of a reflection on Rooney's ability than Defoe's. However, having witnessed Heskey meander through another England game tonight, squandering two golden chances, I've immediately changed my mind. Yep, as turncoats and hypocrites come, I'm guilty as charged.
Heskey, for lack of another phrase, is shite. Awful. Diabolical. Abysmal. Utterly useless. England cannot win the World Cup or even go out heroically in the quarter finals with that oaf up front. They need better - they need a partner for Rooney who will score goals and contribute in the ways a striker must. Yes, Heskey is the better option for Rooney but apart from that, what else does he contribute? Certainly not goals, certainly not express pace, certainly not dazzling trickery.
Defoe is banging them in at the moment - literally, in the case of his third at Hull last month. Form may be temporary but he's proven himself to be competent enough on the international stage. At his worst, he certainly provides more goal scoring threat than big Emile. Yes, the 'hard' part may be over now that we've qualified for the World Cup but if Defoe keeps playing like he is now over the coming weeks, then there'll be no excuse not to play him in the next few England games. Strikers score goals and Defoe is scoring them in bucket loads.
He might not be the divine answer and he may not necessarily be the man to play at the World Cup finals but, my word, he certainly deserves a run in the side to show he can do it consistently. People have mentioned that he is getting a knack for scoring goals from the bench and that nothing should be done to alter this. But if Rooney is having an off day and the combined efforts of Gerrard and Lampard aren't getting England on the scoresheet, they need a predator of Defoe's ilk.
As a final word, I'll list England's striking options. They say that the starting front two should be the best two players. Try telling me that Rooney and Defoe are not the best two strikers on this list:
- Rooney
- Defoe
- Carlton Cole
- Emile Heskey
- Peter Crouch
- Gabby Agbonlahor
- Michael Owen
Capiche? Fabio, take heed.
After the Slovenia friendly, where JD netted a fabulous goal and demonstrated more of his outrageously good form, I made the case in conversation that he shouldn't. My reasoning being that Heskey, for all the clumsiness and complete and utter lack of goals that he brought to the table, garnered the best form out of Wayne Rooney. His American Football-like frame was the perfect instrument for holding the ball up and providing the flicks and deft touches required for our Wayne to latch onto.
Simply put, I opined that I'd rather have a top form Rooney than a top form Defoe. If that sounds harsh on the Spurs man then I apologise as it is more of a reflection on Rooney's ability than Defoe's. However, having witnessed Heskey meander through another England game tonight, squandering two golden chances, I've immediately changed my mind. Yep, as turncoats and hypocrites come, I'm guilty as charged.
Heskey, for lack of another phrase, is shite. Awful. Diabolical. Abysmal. Utterly useless. England cannot win the World Cup or even go out heroically in the quarter finals with that oaf up front. They need better - they need a partner for Rooney who will score goals and contribute in the ways a striker must. Yes, Heskey is the better option for Rooney but apart from that, what else does he contribute? Certainly not goals, certainly not express pace, certainly not dazzling trickery.
Defoe is banging them in at the moment - literally, in the case of his third at Hull last month. Form may be temporary but he's proven himself to be competent enough on the international stage. At his worst, he certainly provides more goal scoring threat than big Emile. Yes, the 'hard' part may be over now that we've qualified for the World Cup but if Defoe keeps playing like he is now over the coming weeks, then there'll be no excuse not to play him in the next few England games. Strikers score goals and Defoe is scoring them in bucket loads.
He might not be the divine answer and he may not necessarily be the man to play at the World Cup finals but, my word, he certainly deserves a run in the side to show he can do it consistently. People have mentioned that he is getting a knack for scoring goals from the bench and that nothing should be done to alter this. But if Rooney is having an off day and the combined efforts of Gerrard and Lampard aren't getting England on the scoresheet, they need a predator of Defoe's ilk.
As a final word, I'll list England's striking options. They say that the starting front two should be the best two players. Try telling me that Rooney and Defoe are not the best two strikers on this list:
- Rooney
- Defoe
- Carlton Cole
- Emile Heskey
- Peter Crouch
- Gabby Agbonlahor
- Michael Owen
Capiche? Fabio, take heed.
Aaron Lennon: an England star is born?
Fabio Capello apparently has 'problem positions' that he needs to sort out before the fun begins in South Africa next summer. The right midfield berth is a hotly debated issue; at times, selecting who to wear the number 7 shirt is akin to picking names out of a hat. Shaun Wright Phillips, Theo Walcott and David Beckham have all come and gone in recent years, thus leaving a perfect void for Tottenham's Aaron Lennon to squeeze into.
Lennon, who's electrifying start to the season has won him plaudits aplenty, was given a start tonight in the crucial World Cup qualifying match with Croatia and he took his chance with both hands. With his demon pace and low centre of gravity, Lennon was able to exhibit his usual jinking in and out of midfielders at breakneck speeds. But if he has been criticised in the past for a lack of end product, it was not in evidence tonight.
Like a man possessed with the will to impress, Lennon immediately tore into the Croatian defence with his dangerous, rapier-like thrusts into the box. One of the first he produced brought about the first England goal; his slaloming path into the area bringing a clumsy challenge on him and subsequent penalty. Not to be satisfied with the one contribution, he stepped his game up a further notch. Receiving a delightful pass from the marauding Steven Gerrard, Lennon composed himself and delivered a wonderfully flighted cross to the back post which was nodded in by the grateful Gerrard.
He even could have scored himself, the cheeky little scamp. But, unfortunately, while the goals are stacking up for club, it was not to be for country. His attempted dink over the keeper when played through was as unsuccessful as Slaven Bilic's attempt at pre match mind games. But unlike the beleaguered Croatian coach, Lennon ended the night with a cheek to cheek smile on his face.
He was subbed for crowd favourite David Beckham in the second half but he had done his job and then some. Lennon's continual improvement as a player has neatly coincided with Tottenham's own ascension. Previously viewed as a bit one dimensional with nothing of an eye for goal, he has taken on the mantle of being Tottenham's (and England's) main wing wizard. His pace has never been in question but his ability to regularly beat players has been a cause for concern. However, he seems to have learned that particular trick a while back now and he continues to show it with every outing.
Very much a confidence player, his aura was shining in the most positive of lights at Wembley tonight and confidence and bravado flowed effervescently through him. There was no fear of taking on his man and beating him and he was clearly eager to imprint himself on the game as early as he could. This is what England need from their right winger. With Gerrard on the left, they have a player who likes to cut inside and dominate through the middle. But the right wing is a position that requires pace, a bit of trickery and the desire to take on defenders with regularity.
Lennon is in a perfect position to make that position his own now. Beckham is destined to be a bench player - an impact sub to be thrown into the breach should the situation require. Walcott has the makings of an excellent player but is ridiculously injury prone and often looks a tad lightweight at international level (that hat-trick aside). Wright Phillips is a player very much in the same mould as Lennon but, if tonight and Saturday's friendly with Slovenia was any evidence, he is an inadequate version. He lacks the pizazz and the wow-factor that Lennon provides and doesn't seem to ever make an impact when he is given a chance. Frankly, SWP has had three years to dominate the right midfield berth and he's been incapable.
If Lennon can maintain a similar level of football that his early season form has reached then he could just be the answer to Don Capello's right wing headache. If he is a player who only plays well when things are going well for him, then so be it - we can hold it against him forever. But no-one can argue that the value he brings when he is in this kind of groove is invaluable. And he's been in 'this kind of groove' for some time now. He's simply the kind of player that frightens the opposition - the kind that defences shudder when preparing to face. He's Road Runner quick, he's desperate to impress and he could just be here to stay.
Barring injury, you'd have to assume that it's a straight fight between Lennon and Walcott. And, although things are certain to change in the topsy-turvy year ahead, on the basis of his man of the match display tonight, Lennon could just be in prime position to lead England's right sided charge in South Africa.
Lennon, who's electrifying start to the season has won him plaudits aplenty, was given a start tonight in the crucial World Cup qualifying match with Croatia and he took his chance with both hands. With his demon pace and low centre of gravity, Lennon was able to exhibit his usual jinking in and out of midfielders at breakneck speeds. But if he has been criticised in the past for a lack of end product, it was not in evidence tonight.
Like a man possessed with the will to impress, Lennon immediately tore into the Croatian defence with his dangerous, rapier-like thrusts into the box. One of the first he produced brought about the first England goal; his slaloming path into the area bringing a clumsy challenge on him and subsequent penalty. Not to be satisfied with the one contribution, he stepped his game up a further notch. Receiving a delightful pass from the marauding Steven Gerrard, Lennon composed himself and delivered a wonderfully flighted cross to the back post which was nodded in by the grateful Gerrard.
He even could have scored himself, the cheeky little scamp. But, unfortunately, while the goals are stacking up for club, it was not to be for country. His attempted dink over the keeper when played through was as unsuccessful as Slaven Bilic's attempt at pre match mind games. But unlike the beleaguered Croatian coach, Lennon ended the night with a cheek to cheek smile on his face.
He was subbed for crowd favourite David Beckham in the second half but he had done his job and then some. Lennon's continual improvement as a player has neatly coincided with Tottenham's own ascension. Previously viewed as a bit one dimensional with nothing of an eye for goal, he has taken on the mantle of being Tottenham's (and England's) main wing wizard. His pace has never been in question but his ability to regularly beat players has been a cause for concern. However, he seems to have learned that particular trick a while back now and he continues to show it with every outing.
Very much a confidence player, his aura was shining in the most positive of lights at Wembley tonight and confidence and bravado flowed effervescently through him. There was no fear of taking on his man and beating him and he was clearly eager to imprint himself on the game as early as he could. This is what England need from their right winger. With Gerrard on the left, they have a player who likes to cut inside and dominate through the middle. But the right wing is a position that requires pace, a bit of trickery and the desire to take on defenders with regularity.
Lennon is in a perfect position to make that position his own now. Beckham is destined to be a bench player - an impact sub to be thrown into the breach should the situation require. Walcott has the makings of an excellent player but is ridiculously injury prone and often looks a tad lightweight at international level (that hat-trick aside). Wright Phillips is a player very much in the same mould as Lennon but, if tonight and Saturday's friendly with Slovenia was any evidence, he is an inadequate version. He lacks the pizazz and the wow-factor that Lennon provides and doesn't seem to ever make an impact when he is given a chance. Frankly, SWP has had three years to dominate the right midfield berth and he's been incapable.
If Lennon can maintain a similar level of football that his early season form has reached then he could just be the answer to Don Capello's right wing headache. If he is a player who only plays well when things are going well for him, then so be it - we can hold it against him forever. But no-one can argue that the value he brings when he is in this kind of groove is invaluable. And he's been in 'this kind of groove' for some time now. He's simply the kind of player that frightens the opposition - the kind that defences shudder when preparing to face. He's Road Runner quick, he's desperate to impress and he could just be here to stay.
Barring injury, you'd have to assume that it's a straight fight between Lennon and Walcott. And, although things are certain to change in the topsy-turvy year ahead, on the basis of his man of the match display tonight, Lennon could just be in prime position to lead England's right sided charge in South Africa.
3 September 2009
We're all friends here
Oh Spurs. You do warm the cockles of my heart on these blustery Autumnal nights. I love these little PR stunts. You know, the happy, smiley, 'look-at-us-we're-all-friends' gems that pop up on the official website from time to time.
This latest one has provided some excellent feelgood pictures, all coming from the clubs official squad photocall. It's all part of the website's new Spurs Xtra scheme where you can catch up on behind the scenes photo's and less documented news revolving the team and the players. As I said, they recently put up some absolute beauties. Observe.
Aww. Isn't that nice? It's like Luka and Robbie are really close friends. Which I'm sure there's every chance they are but having seen this picture I believe it all the more. Look at them, just sitting candidly on a bench, sharing a choice anecdote. Look how much fun they're having. It's a caption writer's dream. And there's more.
This latest one has provided some excellent feelgood pictures, all coming from the clubs official squad photocall. It's all part of the website's new Spurs Xtra scheme where you can catch up on behind the scenes photo's and less documented news revolving the team and the players. As I said, they recently put up some absolute beauties. Observe.
Aww. Isn't that nice? It's like Luka and Robbie are really close friends. Which I'm sure there's every chance they are but having seen this picture I believe it all the more. Look at them, just sitting candidly on a bench, sharing a choice anecdote. Look how much fun they're having. It's a caption writer's dream. And there's more.
Giovani! Bloody hell, do you remember him? He's very much still our player despite Portsmouth's best efforts last winter. And look, he's even smiling and joking around with his undoubtedly close friend Jamie O'Hara. I don't know about you but whatever is being exchanged here looks absolutely sidesplitting. Man, I wish I was part of it. Just like Luka does. The poor scamp.
I'm sorry but Sgt. Wilson is just going to kill someone. I know it, you know it and I bet he knows it too. Look at him. There really is something pathological about the man, for goodness sake. We all know he loves a bone crunching tackle on the pitch but it appears he's a ruthless assassin off it too. If looks could kill and all that. Meanwhile, more 'epic banter' being shared between that loveable rogue Alan Hutton and Tommy Huddlestone. The Hudd, it seems, is fascinated with the balding dome of Hutton's scalp. Quite why is anyone's guess. But good on them for having a laugh. Still can't keep my eyes off Wilson though. He is burning mass of controlled rage if ever I've seen one. And don't we just love him for it.
This wraps it up quite nicely. A nice group shot with players and staff alike all particularly tickled by something just off screen. Robbie Keane loves it. Heurelho Gomes loves it. Kevin Bond absolutely loves it. Giovani just doesn't quite get it yet. Even Joe 'dour Scotsman' Jordan has raised a smile. How touching. See, I told you, they're all friends. Don't believe a word on the contrary.
I may mock and offer up sarcasm but a part of me does love to see these kinds of pictures made public. I'm all for squad unity and they're only two ways of showing it too the fans: via a togetherly goal celebration or a club organised photoshoot. That or go out on the razz with Ledley King and attract the attention of the lurking paparazzi.
So we're in the midst of a flying start to the season and everyone loves everyone. Even Chimbonda's gone. Could things get much better at this stage of the season? It's a far cry from the overbearing image of a moody Dimitar Berbatov, slumped dejectedly on the sub's bench wondering if he'll ever get his 'dream' move to Man Utd. Those scenes are very much in the past now.
Happy days.
All photos courtesy of www.tottenhamhotspur.com
2 September 2009
How do you solve a problem like Luka Modric's broken leg?
The solution to the above question is simple. You sign his Croatian counterpart Niko Kranjcar.
On a strangely quiet transfer deadline day, the usual unfounded Tottenham rumours abounded: Hutton's leaving. Bale's leaving. We're signing a second rate centre back (Anton Ferdinand, in this case). Pavlyuchenko's leaving. Redknapp's under pressure to get results.
Okay the last one is a joke. But it's just not a deadline day without a Sky Sports News reporter on SpursWatch outside the training ground, waxing lyrical about fictional transfer moves. The only actual deal that Spurs were involved in was the one that everyone expected and the one that made a lot of common sense.
Kranjcar is a more than adequate replacement for poor injured Modric. Finally, a player I always sign on Football Manager has joined in reality, justifying the extortionate prices I've spent on him over the years. Kranjcar has a fairly large box of tricks - he's good with both feet, has a decent passing range and can pop up with the odd goal. Not unlike his fellow Croat Mr Modric. One suspects he'll slot in on the left until Luka returns and then it's hello squad rotation.
He's adept in central midfield too and will provide competition to the likes of Huddlestone and Jenas. All in all it's both a sensible purchase and an exciting one. Kudos, Harry.
The other player we were heavily linked with Martin Petrov at Man City which, again, would have been tasty. The story goes that we were interested but Mark Hughes didn't want to lose him. Blast. Still, had we signed both players things would have become a tad cosy in the competition for midfield places and it may have rubbed some people up the wrong way. Regardless, Petrov is a talent we should keep our eyes on from afar and should his situation ever change, I'm sure Harry will be sniffing around like the bargain loving Rottweiler he is.
A break now ensues for the tantalisingly exciting England games. A not to be missed friendly with Slovenia on Saturday before we take on the big guns of Eastern European soccer - Croatia (minus Modric). Watching England these days is admittedly an arduous and dull task but who are we to complain when Capello is getting results? Plus there's a healthy Spurs contingent in the squad as Messrs Crouch, Lennon and Defoe all fight for a peripheral appearance. With Defoe in such shit-hot scoring form, don't be surprised if he starts up front with Rooney in at least one of the games.
So all remains pleasant in the Tottenham camp as it has been for some time now. Man Utd next. And, whisper it quietly, I can't wait to take them on. COYS.
On a strangely quiet transfer deadline day, the usual unfounded Tottenham rumours abounded: Hutton's leaving. Bale's leaving. We're signing a second rate centre back (Anton Ferdinand, in this case). Pavlyuchenko's leaving. Redknapp's under pressure to get results.
Okay the last one is a joke. But it's just not a deadline day without a Sky Sports News reporter on SpursWatch outside the training ground, waxing lyrical about fictional transfer moves. The only actual deal that Spurs were involved in was the one that everyone expected and the one that made a lot of common sense.
Kranjcar is a more than adequate replacement for poor injured Modric. Finally, a player I always sign on Football Manager has joined in reality, justifying the extortionate prices I've spent on him over the years. Kranjcar has a fairly large box of tricks - he's good with both feet, has a decent passing range and can pop up with the odd goal. Not unlike his fellow Croat Mr Modric. One suspects he'll slot in on the left until Luka returns and then it's hello squad rotation.
He's adept in central midfield too and will provide competition to the likes of Huddlestone and Jenas. All in all it's both a sensible purchase and an exciting one. Kudos, Harry.
The other player we were heavily linked with Martin Petrov at Man City which, again, would have been tasty. The story goes that we were interested but Mark Hughes didn't want to lose him. Blast. Still, had we signed both players things would have become a tad cosy in the competition for midfield places and it may have rubbed some people up the wrong way. Regardless, Petrov is a talent we should keep our eyes on from afar and should his situation ever change, I'm sure Harry will be sniffing around like the bargain loving Rottweiler he is.
A break now ensues for the tantalisingly exciting England games. A not to be missed friendly with Slovenia on Saturday before we take on the big guns of Eastern European soccer - Croatia (minus Modric). Watching England these days is admittedly an arduous and dull task but who are we to complain when Capello is getting results? Plus there's a healthy Spurs contingent in the squad as Messrs Crouch, Lennon and Defoe all fight for a peripheral appearance. With Defoe in such shit-hot scoring form, don't be surprised if he starts up front with Rooney in at least one of the games.
So all remains pleasant in the Tottenham camp as it has been for some time now. Man Utd next. And, whisper it quietly, I can't wait to take them on. COYS.
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