Match Thread: Tottenham Hotspur vs Ars*nal

[Neil_Vaughan]

Talk about the game in here before, during and after

[suBerb]

We are going to beat them. :cool:

[canadaspur]

We are going to beat them. :cool:

my guts churn already!

[olly27]

match odds for this one will be interesting :)

[Spur]

I have the same feeling in my belly as before the Chelsea game. I think something is brewing - more details later then we can all run to the bookies!

We'll see how many people wake up on Wednesday and say 'I've got a feeling Dawson'll score today', because against Chelsea everyone I met and spoke to said it. We'll wait and see I suppose.

[sundancer]

I really believe that we will beat them, if we go at them from the start and not let them slow the game down 3-1 would be my prediction.

[laspur]

It should be quite an atmosphere, enough to get us thru-hopefully, and no negative tactics, we need to be aggressive and take it away from them, no point losing this game and thinking we'll win a week later. If i think about it too long i get anxiety, **** i'm nuts.

[jrio]

King looks to be out with Gardner again paired with Dawson. There's a Mail article in which he talks about relishing the battle with Henry(sounds like we're expecting an Arsenal first team to be playing) because pace is one of his strengths, so prepare to fear the worst. Just seen Tainio definitely out with an ankle injury so presumably Zokora will start, but I wouldn't mind seeing Ghaly in the centre.

[laspur]

I do think we'll see Henry now that Van persie is out, anyway you look at it, it won't be easy. Most of the arse kids will probably play but that still scares me. I still say 1-0 us.

[laspur]

King looks to be out with Gardner again paired with Dawson. There's a Mail article in which he talks about relishing the battle with Henry(sounds like we're expecting an Arsenal first team to be playing) because pace is one of his strengths, so prepare to fear the worst. Just seen Tainio definitely out with an ankle injury so presumably Zokora will start, but I wouldn't mind seeing Ghaly in the centre.

I also wouldn't mind Keano on the left with Steed and Hudd in the middle and Lennon on the right. If we go with Ghaly at least we know he'll attack the gut of midfield and add some physical presence, something we lacked the 1st time out.

[wayne wonder]

We're gonna win but also we're gonna concede as thats standard procedure with us almost.

Thank god teemu's out as i dont rate him at all or ghaly! i'd play the following team

Robbo, chimbo, Benny, daws, bambi, zok, hudd, steed, lennon, defoe and bebie or **** it off and go 4-3-3 with keane coming in for hudd or zokora!!

COYS!!!!

[Billywhizz]

I would'nt be surprized to see the scum go with a 4-5-1 formation, if they do maybe we'll have to go like for like, if we don't we'll get over run in the middle.

[wayne wonder]

I would'nt be surprized to see the scum go with a 4-5-1 formation, if they do maybe we'll have to go like for like, if we don't we'll get over run in the middle.

oh shit yeah they will!! And the last team to do that against us at home were chelsea and we know what we did to those bunch of slags.

If we go like for like i'd play keano over defoe

[olly27]

Provisional squad: Almunia, Hoyte, Toure, Djourou, Connolly, Traore, Walcott, Diaby, Denilson, Julio Baptista, Aliadiere, Poom, Merida, Lansbury, Randall, Adebayor, Senderos, Flamini.

Not that bad - no Henry!

[Ginola's Son]

We need to go all out. We need to boss the game in midfield, we really need to close them down, and we must not for one second underestimate the kids, these kids are good, these kids are as good as the seniors. We need 100% effort to avoid humiliation and take a respectable scoreline into the second leg. It's gonna be tough. There is no way Arsenal will have a blase attitude to the game, i.e. lose to free up some fixtures. Wenger's not won this trophy and wants it this time. We have just got to get at them! Push them! We need our best players out there doing the thing, and if we go a goal down, do not lose heart, push on!

COYS.....!!!!!!

[MaccYid]

so, do away goals count or not??? i seem to remember they dont anymore???

[JJ]

so, do away goals count or not??? i seem to remember they dont anymore???

Is it that they only count after extra time or something?

[Ginola's Son]

They'll probably count if Arsenal benefit from it.

[Welsh Spur]

seriously? I've never heard that before, the league cup has always had the away goals rule.

[JJ]

They'll probably count if Arsenal benefit from it.

Ah, the "if you're Arsenal" ruling.

That old chestnut.

[JJ]

"(c) In the Semi-Final ties, if the aggregate score is level at the end of the second game an extra half-hour shall be played. If the aggregate scores are still level at the end of extra time the tie shall be decided by goals scored away from home counting twice. If the teams remain equal after this procedure the tie shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the Laws of Association Football."

http://www.carlingcup.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Rules/0,,11995,00.html

So away goals only count at the end of extra time.

[wayne wonder]

Ah, the "if you're Arsenal" ruling.

That old chestnut.

Yeah they'll probably bring it in for them or something or give them a bye in the final at our expence even though we beat them :rolleyes:

[Ginola's Son]

Ah, the "if you're Arsenal" ruling.

Copy right, Mr D Dein.

[jrio]

They lost on the away goals rule to Wigan in last year's semi.

[Spur]

Yea and some of Wigan didn't even realise because the law was changed. It's probably better that way.

[spursmadnick06]

Can't believe the tickets have gone to general sale, i'd have thought this would sell out very quickly.

Anyway i can't wait, we're going to do them.

[Ginola's Son]

How will we do them?

What will be our strategy in your opinion?

[spurs61]

How will we do them?

What will be our strategy in your opinion?

Refuse to come out of the tunnel? Insight their fans to riot before the game and then site the Feyenoord precident? Cut the brakes on their coach? Pay a 12 year old boy to talk to the Sun regarding Wenger's private life?

Or turn up in out tens of thousands, scream for 90 minutes, get right behind the boys and pray!


COYS!!!

[Ginola's Son]

The former seems the more workable idea.

I'd be up for the latter but there was no way I was getting a ticket for that one.

I'll be getting behind them. But what is needed is a serious bucking of the trend. That trend being Arsenal always getting their own way.

[MiloMinderbinder]

The former seems the more workable idea.

I'd be up for the latter but there was no way I was getting a ticket for that one.

I'll be getting behind them. But what is needed is a serious bucking of the trend. That trend being Arsenal always getting their own way.

Anyone know how the Scum are planning on getting to WHL - I smell a plan a foot!

[Ginola's Son]

Well, I have the number of the team hotel, and the chef is very defnitely open to bribery.

[MiloMinderbinder]

Well, I have the number of the team hotel, and the chef is very defnitely open to bribery.

hmm I was thinking more along the lines of a coachjacking followed by an Islington Chainsaw Masscare. Alternatively if anyone knows an Al-Queda sleeper cell can we borrow an IED?

[Ginola's Son]

Oooh. You really hate em eh?

How about the local rectum inspector dropping by the team hotel?

[wayne wonder]

We're gonna win 3-1 trust me boys!!!!!

[spurs61]

How about the local rectum inspector dropping by the team hotel?

I think that's going to be their Xmas party this year?

[MiloMinderbinder]

Oooh. You really hate em eh?

How about the local rectum inspector dropping by the team hotel?

are you mental - they'd love that.

I am just trying to be the voice of reason.

[Ginola's Son]

Ok...I think the 9 year old and Wenger is a goer...

[spurs61]

Ok...I think the 9 year old and Wenger is a goer...

Here you go then, don't let us stand in your way....

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,11028-10088,00.html

[spursmadnick06]

How will we do them?

What will be our strategy in your opinion?

Whilst our effort at the Emirates was more than poor, we are a different proposition at home.

The fans should be really up for it and become our 12th man, this game means more to us than it does to Arsenal.

If we really get at them we will surely be too strong for Arsenal's second string team.

[Ginola's Son]

Arsenal know how much it means to us, and they will abandon their lazy attitude to this cup and strive to beat us out of spite. We have to be prepared for their best. Anything less , and we'll end up like Liverpool.

[wayne wonder]

Arsenal know how much it means to us, and they will abandon their lazy attitude to this cup and strive to beat us out of spite. We have to be prepared for their best. Anything less , and we'll end up like Liverpool.


I agree totally!! I think there's gonna be a riot in fact I PREDICT A ROIT I PREDICT A RIOT :p :cool:

[hastingsyid]

I agree totally!! I think there's gonna be a riot in fact I PREDICT A ROIT I PREDICT A RIOT :p :cool:

if we lose hastingsyid will start a riot:cool:

[hastingsyid]

I agree totally!! I think there's gonna be a riot in fact I PREDICT A ROIT I PREDICT A RIOT :p :cool:

if we lose hastingsyid will start a riot:cool:

[hastingsyid]

didnt mean to do that twice DOH

[highlander]

after seeing that provisional squad i am more confident, they are missing some big hitters; namely Henry, Fabregas, Lehman, Gallas, Gilberto, Rosicky & Hleb. this is a very beatable arse team but the attitude of their 2nd string team is very good so we cannot take them lightly at all

[Welsh Spur]

They've left all them out?

[Ginola's Son]

I bet you cash that Fabregas plays.

Also, the seniors will play in the 2nd leg if we do too well 2mo.

[highlander]

They've left all them out?

according to Olly27's post, although it is provisional so could still change

[canadaspur]

after seeing that provisional squad i am more confident, they are missing some big hitters; namely Henry, Fabregas, Lehman, Gallas, Gilberto, Rosicky & Hleb. this is a very beatable arse team but the attitude of their 2nd string team is very good so we cannot take them lightly at all

I'll believe that when I see it!

[Matix]

Indeed, and if we come out against them like we did before Christmas we dont have a hope in hell. Still with it being at home lets hope the crowd gives them the lift they need to gain an advantage before our trip to the Emirates.

[Welsh Spur]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/6282147.stm

Here you all go, so you can see it for yourselves. And I'm sorry, but if this is the squad they bring and we don't win then someone needs ****ing shooting. I don't give a **** how good their kids are this one's at WHL and if we really are the 5th best team in England we should be winning against the scum's second team at home.

This provisional line up has actually changed my outlook on this match completely. I'm am now going for nothing but a win, anything but a victory out of this game will be absolutely 100% ****ing diabolical.

[sundancer]

I bet you cash that Fabregas plays.

Also, the seniors will play in the 2nd leg if we do too well 2mo.

Even more reason we have to get at them, we need at least a 2 goal lead and I believe we will get it.

[choda]

I hope Fabregas leaves Arsenal for money. Then I can call him Fabrecash and laugh at Wenger and the scum because they despite success they still lose most of their best players.

[Spur]

I hope Fabregas leaves Arsenal for money. Then I can call him Fabrecash and laugh at Wenger and the scum because they despite success they still lose most of their best players.

Or instead of Cesc Fabregas you can call him Cash Fabregas.

Has a nice ring to it doesn't it?

Same sort of ringing as a cash register no?

I know i'm on a roll my sides are splitting :rolleyes:

[Gino Ginelli]

Proud as I am to not know that much about their squad, who's Denilson?! That's not some Brazilian wunderkid is it?

Generally we should be ok if Jenas is given a go seeing as he's back in training. My only real concern is Baptista... looks more than a bit handy unfortunatley.

I'm not fussed about Tainio either. I know he works hard but he just doesn't cut the mustard for me. Steed, Hudd, JJ, Lennon across the middle please, with Chimbo, Dawson, Gardner (seeing as Rocha prob won't make it), and *sigh* Lee or Ekotto (doesn't matter anymore really). Berba & Keano should lead the attack.

[JJ]

Proud as I am to not know that much about their squad, who's Denilson?! That's not some Brazilian wunderkid is it?

Generally we should be ok if Jenas is given a go seeing as he's back in training. My only real concern is Baptista... looks more than a bit handy unfortunatley.

I'm not fussed about Tainio either. I know he works hard but he just doesn't cut the mustard for me. Steed, Hudd, JJ, Lennon across the middle please, with Chimbo, Dawson, Gardner (seeing as Rocha prob won't make it), and *sigh* Lee or Ekotto (doesn't matter anymore really). Berba & Keano should lead the attack.

Denilson is supposed to be very good. Not sure if it's true or not.

And Baptista is a good player, but pretty slow. I'm hoping for him and Hudd to have a clash of the biffers. Should be interesting.

[spursmadnick06]

They said on the news to check the game is definitley on before setting off tonight.

Be gutting if it's post-poned!

[Spur]

They said on the news to check the game is definitley on before setting off tonight.

Be gutting if it's post-poned!

If it gets postponed, AND we have to play in this round of UEFA - we are well and truly ****ed. The Club will most definately want/need this game to go ahead.

I haven't woken up with any particular feeling. Maybe it is not meant to be?

[Spur]

The pitch is fine anyway, they just showed it on SSN.

Looks like it's game on!

COYS

[spursmadnick06]

If it gets postponed, AND we have to play in this round of UEFA - we are well and truly ****ed. The Club will most definately want/need this game to go ahead.

I haven't woken up with any particular feeling. Maybe it is not meant to be?

Heavy snow predicted in North London tonight but hopefully all will be ok.

And you're right about the fixture congestion if this game doesn't go ahead!

[Gino Ginelli]

Heavy snow predicted in North London tonight but hopefully all will be ok.

Get your orange balls out!

[proto]

Heavy snow predicted in North London tonight but hopefully all will be ok.

And you're right about the fixture congestion if this game doesn't go ahead!

finaly, our ninja like camoflage lilly white will be a factor, we'll be like a team of casper the footballing ghosts...they don't stand a chance muwahahahaha

[MiloMinderbinder]

finaly, our ninja like camoflage lilly white will be a factor, we'll be like a team of casper the footballing ghosts...they don't stand a chance muwahahahaha

ha ha I like, a lot. I can see it now, as the scummy **** mother****ers in red come out of the tunnel a net is cast over their evil forms before a hoard of white suited Shaolin trained crack commandos, decapitate and discombobulate the lot of them - ahh what dreams are made of.

[MiloMinderbinder]

Gentlemen, let us pray;

Oh lord in our hour of combat
please let us know that
we're on the right track
With Yiddos to the left of me
Yiddos to the right
please let us beat
those scummy ****s tonight.

[Spur]

Gentlemen, let us pray;

Oh lord in our hour of combat
please let us know that
we're on the right track
With Yiddos to the left of me
Yiddos to the right
please let us beat
those scummy ****s tonight.

Amen to that, my friend.

I hope that's in Jol's programme notes.

[wayne wonder]

A dirty gooner friend has just asked if he can come round mine to watch the game!?!?!?! i said if u want your face caved in withmy foot then by all means.

Cheeky slag him

[SurreySpur]

A dirty gooner friend has just asked if he can come round mine to watch the game!?!?!?! i said if u want your face caved in withmy foot then by all means.

Cheeky slag him

Nice one WW. Keep it Gooner Free!!!

Im locking myself in the living room with Sky Sports, a lot of beer and a pizza, ive bought my better half a One Tree Hill(soppy america drama) DVD, so that will keep her happy while i shout,scream and cry!!

[Ginola's Son]

I've told the GF, that tonight I might not be very responsive to her. She's telling me she won't even watch it and play with her nephew instead. I just can't stand the thought of her being so smug...agggh, its a killer.

[spurs61]

You should do a deal with the missus GS, if we win you do the washing up for a month and vice versa. That way either way you don't have to be in the same room as her for too long!

[Ginola's Son]

That'd work if we lived together. But we do not. We don't have to see eachother. but she said she'll be upset if I blank her. Aggh, what to do.

[spurs61]

Lucky boy! Kepp it that way, it makes life a lot simpler. Although the missus did de-ice my car this morning!

[Ginola's Son]

We're only playing eachother in the semi's cos of me and her, wouldn't have worked out that way otherwise....

Or does that belong in the superstitions thread.

[wayne wonder]

Im just gonna sit there with the lights off and a few cans of wife beater and the number for the samaritans

[Welsh Spur]

Im just gonna sit there with the lights off and a few cans of wife beater and the number for the samaritans

Hahahahahahahahahaha! Now then, to you, what is "wife beater"? Down here it's stella, but some people refer to strongbow as "wife beater" too.

[Ginola's Son]

Stella I beleive.

[MiloMinderbinder]

Hahahahahahahahahaha! Now then, to you, what is "wife beater"? Down here it's stella, but some people refer to strongbow as "wife beater" too.

it's either Stella or a can of mace;)

[spurs61]

Now then, to you, what is "wife beater"?

Gazza??? ;)

[Gino Ginelli]

Stella is also known as "Bad Bitch" in Leeds.

I'm quite partial to a pint of Stella and I've never had the urge to raise my fists to the other half. They should reserve "Wife Beater" for X-Factor or some shite if that's what it means...

[MiloMinderbinder]

In the good ol' US of A a wife beater is the stringy vests worn by a certain sub-section of the population, usually in such lovely places as South Central LA and the Mississipi delta.

[wayne wonder]

In birmingham its stella and also a white vest is known as a wife beater too for some reason!!

Just occured to me why do americans drink Cools lager?? what the **** is that when its at home

[MiloMinderbinder]

In birmingham its stella and also a white vest is known as a wife beater too for some reason!!

Just occured to me why do americans drink Cools lager?? what the **** is that when its at home

it's Coors - and it's piss, just like antipodeans, Yanks can't do beer either, except for Samuel Adams which is pretty nice. (you want proper beer go to Southern Africa, they really know how to do a great beer!)

[wayne wonder]

it's Coors - and it's piss, just like antipodeans, Yanks can't do beer either, except for Samuel Adams which is pretty nice. (you want proper beer go to Southern Africa, they really know how to do a great beer!)

SHOCKING!! how the hell do these people get pissed is what i wanna know if they're drinking warm piss

[MiloMinderbinder]

SHOCKING!! how the hell do these people get pissed is what i wanna know if they're drinking warm piss

well I suppose it depends whose piss they are drinking, if it's a Scotsman's there's no doubt it'll work, if it's an Eskimo's it would be a little doubtful.:D

[Billywhizz]

Just occured to me why do americans drink Cools lager?? what the **** is that when its at home

Absolute piss water thats what it is, can't beat special 'K' cider thats rocket fuel, Ruddles ain't bad either.:D :D

[MiloMinderbinder]

well I suppose it depends whose piss they are drinking, if it's a Scotsman's there's no doubt it'll work, if it's an Eskimo's it would be a little doubtful.:D

I apologise in advance to any Eskimo's who may have been offended in the making of this joke - I won't apologise to the Scots cos they are probably to pissed to understand anyway.

[wayne wonder]

Haha KingKeane you crack me up but your right these scots can drink and thats just the women!!

Did anyone ever drink Diamond White Cider?? ****ing hell that was a strong drink back in my youth :rolleyes:

[MiloMinderbinder]

Haha KingKeane you crack me up but your right these scots can drink and thats just the women!!

Did anyone ever drink Diamond White Cider?? ****ing hell that was a strong drink back in my youth :rolleyes:

Cheers WW, at least someone gets my humour! (Cue spurs61 "is that what you call it")

is that like White Lightening, the tramps favourite tipple? comes with free brown paper bag and place on park bench??!

[Ginola's Son]

JD and coke is the only drink you pussies

[spurs61]

Straight scotch, no ice, no water, three fingers. That's a proper drink, JD and Coke is for girls who think they're hard. Why the coke? 'Cos you're a girl and you can't stand the taste of whisky! lol.

[MiloMinderbinder]

Straight scotch, no ice, no water, three fingers. That's a proper drink, JD and Coke is for girls who think they're hard. Why the coke? 'Cos you're a girl and you can't stand the taste of whisky! lol.

we've done this one before, and established that real men drink straight single malt scotch, the rest just sit in their own mess playing with themselves and pontificate their failiure as men.:)

[Ginola's Son]

JD and Coke is for girls who think they're hard. Why the coke? 'Cos you're a girl and you can't stand the taste of whisky! lol.


Shut the **** up. Straight whiskey is for flipping depressive Alci's, that may be harbouring a secret support of the gooners. The coke keeps you compos mentis enough to get it up when your banging your missus.

[Billywhizz]

Haha KingKeane you crack me up but your right these scots can drink and thats just the women!!

Did anyone ever drink Diamond White Cider?? ****ing hell that was a strong drink back in my youth :rolleyes:

Yeah!!!! We use to snake bite that with Tennents Super, There's a method to us Scots madness, Whats left over from a few pints of heavy in our bladder, we piss into the petrol tank and run our cars. :D

[Billywhizz]

Straight scotch, no ice, no water, three fingers. That's a proper drink,.

Absolutely!!!! no other way to drink it, Allways double's as well otherwise it ain't worth dirtying the glass.

[MiloMinderbinder]

Absolutely!!!! no other way to drink it, Allways double's as well otherwise it ain't worth dirtying the glass.

Glass, glass, good grief man, I pour a double into a tumbler for later and drink from the bottle;)

[spurs61]

Shut the **** up. Straight whiskey is for flipping depressive Alci's, that may be harbouring a secret support of the gooners. The coke keeps you compos mentis enough to get it up when your banging your missus.

Ooooh get her, you sound like my missus. ;) The coke you are refering to is wasted in a glass of JD?


And I've told you before, you're gonna blow my cover, laspur is already on to me/us. :p

[Gino Ginelli]

Aparrantly Jenas, Mido, Salty and Davids are back for tonight, but Rocha's not available. Oh and SSN report that Fabregas is playing. C'mon Tom!!

[Ginola's Son]

The coke you are refering to is wasted in a glass of JD?


I don't see how. It makes the devil's hoof taste that much sweeter.

[Billywhizz]

Glass, glass, good grief man, I pour a double into a tumbler for later and drink from the bottle;)

LMFBO :D :D ****in Hell, I must be a sophisticated Scot then, ain't to many of them about.

[Gino Ginelli]

Anyway, what are you all on about with you're spirits? A proper hand pulled pint of Black Sheep Bitter is what you're after!

[spurs61]

I don't see how. It makes the devil's hoof taste that much sweeter.

Ooops, wrong kind of coke! :confused:

"I don't know what you're talking about officer....." :o

[spurs61]

Anyway, what are you all on about with you're spirits? A proper hand pulled pint of Black Sheep Bitter is what you're after!


Smiles Best is the way to go.

[Gino Ginelli]

Smiles Best is the way to go.

Is that a London beer? Never seen it up this way.

You have to go to Yorkshire to get proper "Sheep". Doesn't travel well.

[MiloMinderbinder]

LMFBO :D :D ****in Hell, I must be a sophisticated Scot then, ain't to many of them about.

sophisticated Scott, tis an oxymoron Billy (and no that's not a dim university student:rolleyes: ).

what is your brand of choice? I favour Laphroaig and Scapa although I do want to try Monkey Shoulder.

[MiloMinderbinder]

Is that a London beer? Never seen it up this way.

You have to go to Yorkshire to get proper "Sheep". Doesn't travel well.

what you want is a nice pint of Badger, Stout or Weasel, top notch stuff.
ZZmiles is from the Wezzt Country byz the wayzz.

[spurs61]

It's a Bristol ale actually, made with lemons and brewed in the same way for over 100 years in the same brewery (probably the same brewers as well). I had to go and Liquidate (ironically) the brewery two years ago and refused unless we could sell the business. We did! Thus anyone you know who drinks the stuff can thank me personally for saving the best beer in England.

[Spur]

Bitter is wrong.

Peroni from Italy is very good.

Otherwise Ameretto, straight or with coke, or cider, Strongbow, Magners or Thatchers Perry.

And i'm thinking of a drink that is usually a shot - very popular - but can't think of the name. Anyway you have like half a glass and mix it with Blackcurrant and it's the dogs.

[Gino Ginelli]

Bitter is proper beer mate. Peroni and the like, while nice, is merely lager and not beer. Cider is simply cack in a glass.

Can't think what the shot is, but the classic Tequila Slammer was always a popular one on the Student nights...

[Spur]

Its the one everyone drinks. Including myself, and I cannot understand why I can't think of the name. Probably drink it too much.

As a kid I was partial to the straight JD, but I outgrew that once I was legal to drink.

There's some Hungarian shot as well, can't remember the name - but that stuff is lethal! Comes in a round bottle and its black, absolutely terrifying.

[Gino Ginelli]

Ah... tastes like cough mixture and tar, laced with Uranium. Can't think of it's name but i've had it in Germany. Could probably cure cancer that stuff...

[Gino Ginelli]

Aha... http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/5253

Unicum. Good grief, there's all sorts of shit in this!

[Spur]

Aha... http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/5253

Unicum. Good grief, there's all sorts of shit in this!

Yea thats the one, horrible stuff, had a shot of it once and woke up the next day - not knowing what happened in between whatsoever :eek: :o

Of course! Sambuca was the one I couldn't think of! Put a very generous amount of Sambuca in a glass and mix with Blackcurrant, it goes down surprisingly well and tastes quality!

[Chewy]

lol Back to the match tonight boys!

SSN reports that Jenas could be in the starting line up. Could have a mid-field of Malbranque Hudd Jenas Lennon. Although to be honest I'd be pretty happy with Zokora starting if Jenas is out.

Mido also could be back on the bench for this, which is good news as I think we need attacking players on the bench.

I'd go with

Robbo
Chimbonda Dawson Gardner(:() Lee
Lennon Zokora/Jenas Hudd Malbranque
Berbatov Keane

Subs: Cerny, Zokora/Jenas, Ghaly, Defoe, Mido

Yes there is no defenders on the bench but Hudd and Zokora can also play CB.

[Ginola's Son]

No defenders on the bench?>

[Chewy]

No defenders on the bench?>

Read under the subs.

[wayne wonder]

Read under the subs.

Lee's not a defender he's a liability!!

Im telling u big tony's gonna play a blinder tonight he's 50-1 to score too

[Chewy]

Im telling u big tony's gonna play a blinder tonight he's 50-1 to score too

Lets hope so!

[Welsh Spur]

115 replies and the game aint even started!!!!

Surprised about Jenas, don't think he'll start if he does figure at all, not after so long out.

I'd like to see Rocha starting but he isn't eligible I believe.

[canadaspur]

115 replies and the game aint even started!!!!

Surprised about Jenas, don't think he'll start if he does figure at all, not after so long out.

I'd like to see Rocha starting but he isn't eligible I believe.

Why would Rocha be ineligible??Man,I'm getting nervous!

[jrio]

I know Gardner's unreliable but how desperate would it be to select a player who hasn't trained with the squad and only flew in yesterday(?). Similar scenario with Jenas. People seem to be reacting as though it's a second leg against a full side with us being behind. That's the time to try desperate measures. I think Spurs will come flying out, a bit like ManU on Sunday, but start getting very nervous if there isn't a first half goal and good chances are missed. I'll just be eating my liver every time Gardner's on the ball in an isolated area.

[nuttyhotspurs]

the question is who will start up top with berby? id go with jd

[highlander]

id like Keane to start up top because then if the goons go 4-5-1 we can go like for like with Keane wide left a la the chelsea match. Keane gives more options and is a better cup player than Defoe

[jrio]

Just seen Andy Gray talking about his scoring record in the CC and he would expect to play. Just wonder what Jol's plan is if we're scoreless or even behind after 60-70 minutes.

[Welsh Spur]

id like Keane to start up top because then if the goons go 4-5-1 we can go like for like with Keane wide left a la the chelsea match. Keane gives more options and is a better cup player than Defoe

A better cup player?!?!

WTF is that supposed to mean? Also, and I don't give a **** who the goals were against, Defoe has 7 goals in 8 cup appearances this season, 3 of which were as a sub. He will be up for this one.

[highlander]

A better cup player?!?!

WTF is that supposed to mean?

a better cup player in that he is more passionate and involves himself in the game a lot more and in a lot more ways than Defoe.

[jrio]

Ekotto plays, a chance to redeem himself and he'd better grab it with both hands. Zokora in midfield and Defoe partnering Berb, it's a side that should be confident even with Gardner in defence. Radio 5 talking about a delayed kick-off as the Arsenal bus caught up in traffic and not expected at WHL until 7.30.

R5 just confirming ko delayed until 8.15 even though they arrived about 7.15. I feel for all the fans there freezing their b******* off. Why is there a delay when they've got 45 minutes before ko? As it's Poll who gave 2 unjustified pens against us at Goonerville, fear the worst.

[highlander]

oh bollocks, Fabregas starts

[nuttyhotspurs]

oh bollocks, Fabregas starts

oh no fabregas! shittin it now..................... all we need to do is knock the nobed about and he'll cry like he usually does

[highlander]

oh no fabregas! shittin it now..................... all we need to do is knock the nobed about and he'll cry like he usually does

he may be a lightweight but he is a top player, u cant deny that

[SurreySpur]

**** ARSENAL, **** FABREGAS.............. Were going to tear this mob apart.


COME ON YOU SPURS!!!!!!!!!!!

[derek zoolander]

any live streams of the game lads?

[\jackdaw]

Are we still allowed to post streams?

If so ..

http://www.myp2p.eu/Matches/Match1.htm

if not then please delete this

[\jackdaw]

It seems these youngsters dont like to be pushed....if we carry on like this I for one will be happy

[\jackdaw]

Get in there Berby ya ****ing GOD !!!

[shakey18]

Berby off-****in hell

[\jackdaw]

Berby off because of a groin problem...bummer he was looking sharp

[shakey18]

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[\jackdaw]

If we dont put it in then they do...get in there !!!

[JM_]

And NO long balls from now on, Robbo & Daws!!!! :p

[jrio]

Even Spur couldn't have dreamed this. Let's hope we can at least maintain the momentum and not concede in the first hour.

[\jackdaw]

And NO long balls from now on, Robbo & Daws!!!! :p

Exactly what I was thinking..we need to play the ball through the midfield or down the wing withe Lennon.

[jrio]

Robinson needs to know when to slow down. What advantage is there in largely giving the ball back to Gooners after being under pressure?

[jrio]

Utter bollocks from Toure. Clear foul, just own up, no one respects that sort of ballshit.

[\jackdaw]

The scum dont look to bad going forward but their defence is utter shit. We need to really pressure them because they will let in a lot more.

On the whole the Spurs havnt played to bad, Gardener and Akotto both holding theur own. Only thing thats been a little poor is Steeds final ball to the forwards, he always seems to cut in right and not put the ball through to another.

Apart from that I can see us getting another 2 in the second half ...

[canadaspur]

Need a 3rd & even more importantly...DON'T CONCEDE!!!!!!

[nuttyhotspurs]

keane and steed both need to step it up a bit in 2nd half. if they do we will score some more. zokora working his bollox off which is good to see. still gives the ball away needlessly in dangerous areas but i put that down to the game being fast as **** from the start, players will make mistakes. however its been his best game for a long while :) a great great first half overall considering we had to make a change early on and change the system

****in come on!!!!!!!!! lets finish off these scummers

[JM_]

Nice to be 2 goals ahead at half time, not enough though! They look weak in defence, but on the other hand so have we the last games... Agree that Steed is a bit selfish on the ball. Keano could get more involved. Good to see that Robbo tries the low longballs instead of the high ones. And most importantly, Jolly don't go defencive in the second!!!

[nuttyhotspurs]

And most importantly, Jolly don't go defencive in the second!!!

oh i hear ya! im dreading that happening! we need to come out firing on all cylinders again and that defence will crumble. kill it off completely in first 15 minutes pleeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaasssseeeeeeeee

[_SpUrS_]

The scum dont look to bad going forward but their defence is utter shit. We need to really pressure them because they will let in a lot more.

On the whole the Spurs havnt played to bad, Gardener and Akotto both holding theur own. Only thing thats been a little poor is Steeds final ball to the forwards, he always seems to cut in right and not put the ball through to another.

Apart from that I can see us getting another 2 in the second half ...

We need to get atleast one more because i think they will beat us at emirates

[\jackdaw]

If things do go tits up it wont be the fault of the crowd.. they are awesome tonight

[nuttyhotspurs]

all of a sudden the kids seem to have transformed into what looks like an accomplished side

alumina plenty of experience
eboue 1st teamer
toure 1st teamer
senderos plenty of experience
hoyte played a lot in 1st team this season
hleb 1st teamer
fabregas 1st teamer
walcott next big thing....
babtista a lot of experience

thats 9 players off the top of my head. im sure this wont be mentioned in the match reports

[nuttyhotspurs]

Come On!!!! We Need Another Now

[\jackdaw]

**** we need more now

[JM_]

Mido on for Steed!

[nuttyhotspurs]

robbo that was complete and utter shite

beginning to look like mido should of come on for berby? what does everyone think

[\jackdaw]

****ing hell .. what the hell is happening

[MACCSPURS]

I really don't understand our performances......it's 2-2 now and we were 2-0 up.

If you look at our first team you'd think on paper we are good enough to beat the greater majority of teams in the premiership.

Tonight, with the exception of a few of the Arsenal players we should be winning this game easily.

So what is going on? Are we so consistent that when other teams up their game we remain at the same level?

It's very odd but has been like this all season. I'm not saying it is over but really at home we have to win to stand a chance.

[\jackdaw]

Our inconsistancy has always been a problem for Spurs over the years, why? if I knew that I would be manager.

Now Midp's come on I dont feel as confident getting a winner because of his form this season, hopefully he will prove me wrong.

[MACCSPURS]

We are playing the Arsenal Youth squad......

We were 2-0 up and now hanging on for a 2-2 draw

I thought Jol made it very clear to Mido he will only ever be used as back up for Berbatov......so why was he not?

The Arsenal fans were singing "You were 2-0 up and you f**ked it up" and the worst thing about this song.......we are at home and they are right.

[canadaspur]

Our inconsistancy has always been a problem for Spurs over the years, why? if I knew that I would be manager.

Now Midp's come on I dont feel as confident getting a winner because of his form this season, hopefully he will prove me wrong.

we are totally consistent,every time we get a lead we try & sit back & defend it & **** it up every time...we're done in the Carling!

[Welsh Spur]

what a load of bullshit, jol has no ****ing clue, we sat off them the entire ****ing game we are at home, started well, undeserved two goal lead at half time, and then didnt try to kill off a team of kids, im ****ing tampin!!! AAAARRRRrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Welsh Spur]

there are no ****ing tactics at all. what the ****, say goodbye to the carling cup coz it's scum or chelsea to win it now. that second half was a complete pile of utter bullshit.

[\jackdaw]

It is only the first leg, we have to beleive we can do something in the 2nd. If we play like we did in the first half then we can get something from the game.

Also Berby will (hopefully) be 100% fit for the 2nd leg and I think he will make a big big difference.

[AssaTM]

MJ has GOT TO STOP ****ING MAKING US PLAY SO DEFENSIVE, we were 2-0 up, ripping them apart, so he makes us sit on the lead, after what the 20th minute? holy **** -_-

[Chaydle]

An absolute disgrace, 2-0 up against a bunch of kids, so what does BMJ do sit back after 20mins and keep what we have, waht a ****ing joke, it was so obvious we needed to grasp the nettle a kick them when they were down, not give them the impetus!!!

Fuming!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[denis-cro]

Martin Jol should be sacked!!!! After 2-0 we were totally outclassed by A***nal´s 2nd team...this is unacceptable. No midfield in our game...kicking long balls from our half without any sense...no creativity...no improving...same mistakes...WTF after 2-0 Jol closed the game concentrate to defending...this is ridiculous playing 4-3-2-1...we never played in that formation....Jol´s tactical knowlege is ****ing shit...bollocks...:mad:

[nuttyhotspurs]

berby going off was the turning point. i think jol should of brought mido on. i dont think keane and steed knew what to do after the substitution and even up til the final whistle they still looked unsure. changing the system after 15/20 mins wasnt a good idea, especially when we were on top :(

robbo has to be held responsible for the 2nd surely. ok poor defending by ekotto but if robbo had stayed in posisition he stood a chance of stopping it

[Chaydle]

We have hardly kept a clean sheet all season so why we try to defend for 70mins I have no idea!

[nuttyhotspurs]

We have hardly kept a clean sheet all season so why we try to defend for 70mins I have no idea!

surely jol didnt tell them to sit back 2nd half its 50% bad tactics and 50% bad performance by the players

[denis-cro]

i can´t belive we had 2-0 advantage...we were attacking...we were destroying them...and we end up almost to be beaten...:(

[JM_]

Ok, we didn't sit back and defend! The players left their performance in the dressingroom.. and Zokora, Malbranque and Keano didn't show up for the second half at all!!

And this is the day my support for Jol goes from 100% to 99%. He sits with one thumb in his a** and the other one in his mouth! Why not make the subs earlier, and use them all FFS! We needed some fresh legs on. And what happened to all the running from the first half? We actually got in their face all the time and they made simple mistakes, like we did in the second!

I'm no fan of Ghaly but he could have come on for either Zokora or Malbranque after 55-60mins!

And how many times did we attack on the left, not one fu**ing time. Always on the right! If we have £10 mil to splash on Bale, forget that! For that amount we can have a great left midfielder!

If we have to take something good from this resault it's that they'll probably start the same kids in the home game, and that's our only hope!

Man of the match, if I have to pick one, is Lennon! He tried to run the hole game, but didn't get much support in the second half.

[Chaydle]

surely jol didnt tell them to sit back 2nd half its 50% bad tactics and 50% bad performance by the players


Bollocks, sitting back on a lead has been a tactic since last year, does BMJ not instruct his players or just lets them get on with it?

[nuttyhotspurs]

defoe looks a different player when alongside berbatov. they both seem on the same wavelength and their partnership should be utilised as much as possible. when they are both fit, they should both be picked EVERY time. its clear jol prefers 442. i don't think keane can play in that system as a front player

[nuttyhotspurs]

Bollocks, sitting back on a lead has been a tactic since last year, does BMJ not instruct his players or just lets them get on with it?

yea but he doesnt control them on the pitch. just because he tells them to do something doesnt mean they will do it. arsenal put the pressure on and we started panicking and sat back. its not just spurs that sit back on leads, a lot of teams do. it just seems to be spurs that buckle under the pressure more often that not.

its all about mental stength, spurs really need a leader on the pitch

[peterc]

defoe looks a different player when alongside berbatov. they both seem on the same wavelength and their partnership should be utilised as much as possible. when they are both fit, they should both be picked EVERY time. its clear jol prefers 442. i don't think keane can play in that system as a front player

Sorry mate but I 'm sure many will agree that Defoe should have stayed at home today, he was practically non existant, except for his cross for the first goal. I sill think that he is over rated. All in all, a very bad second half performance, we were outclassed by a bunch of kids.

[Chaydle]

This was our golden opportunity and we ballsed it up through lack of composure, negativity and the inability to kepp the ball and pass to someone in the same colour shirt.............

**** me watching Spurs is just like watching England !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[jrio]

Very poor performance in the second half, largely because we sat back and let Arsenal dictate play. Inevitable that they would get at least one goal as we don't have the defensive solidity of Liverpool. I can't see how this was any different from our last 20 minutes against Chelsea at home, except without the goals. It was obvious we needed to retain the initiative and not allow Arsenal to have easy possession because that is what they thrive upon. We could have easily lost the game. As it is, we have certainly lost the tie.

[Chaydle]

its all about mental stength, spurs really need a leader on the pitch


Yeah I agree with that but it doesn't seem we have has such a leader since the 80's with Graham Roberts..........hard as ****............why is that?

[denis-cro]

Any update on Berb´s injury???

[jrio]

... we were outclassed by a bunch of kids.

Almunia, Toure, Senderos, Fabregas, Diaby and Baptista with Hleb, Eboue and Flamini as subs aren't kids. Lehmann, Clichy, Rosicky, Adebayor and Henry were the only first choices not injured or suspended who weren't included.

[Ginola's Son]

How bitterly disappointing.

We played SO well in the first half, and as usual....we blew it.

We really need a new big striker to replace Berby, because Jol only brought Keane on because he has lost confidence in Mido. DAMN that injury to Berbatov, he looked good for a few goals. We really seemed to be rocking them first half, if we only took more of them chances, because the goons turned on the style second half, and we just decided to give them so much bloody space. Once players like Eboue and Hleb were out there, it was half a side of seniors. We shot ourselves in the foot and its sickening, but not entirely unexpected.

Seeing as no-one has won at their place yet, I guess thats it.

But we really gave it some welly first half and we at least aren't losers in the result sense.

[denis-cro]

Seeing as no-one has won at their place yet, I guess thats it.



We´ll beat them next wednesday...I don´t know how...but we willl :mad: this tie is not over yet...CMON YOU SPURS...

[nuttyhotspurs]

Sorry mate but I 'm sure many will agree that Defoe should have stayed at home today, he was practically non existant, except for his cross for the first goal. I sill think that he is over rated. All in all, a very bad second half performance, we were outclassed by a bunch of kids.

did you not read what i posted? i said hes a different player when alongside berbatov

[peterc]

Almunia, Toure, Senderos, Fabregas, Diaby and Baptista with Hleb, Eboue and Flamini as subs aren't kids. Lehmann, Clichy, Rosicky, Adebayor and Henry were the only first choices not injured or suspended who weren't included.

Maybe not, however Arsenal were not at their best, still we were well bleow par in the second half and we played like a bunch of over paid amateurs.

[Ginola's Son]

Defoe was superb in the first half! What game were you watching. The whole team were a bit off in the second half. Keano was dire I thought.

Also Robbo, you were doing so well....why come out of goal like that!

[nuttyhotspurs]

Almunia, Toure, Senderos, Fabregas, Diaby and Baptista with Hleb, Eboue and Flamini as subs aren't kids. Lehmann, Clichy, Rosicky, Adebayor and Henry were the only first choices not injured or suspended who weren't included.

u missed out the rapist but i do agree. the 2nd half wasnt against just the kids. that was the main reason why we caved. players like eboue and hleb came on and had a lot of energy, it changed the game

[peterc]

did you not read what i posted? i said hes a different player when alongside berbatov

Sorry mate I'm so pissed off that I mis understood what u wrote, my apologies, shame Jol does not admit that he also fcuked up big time tonight. He takes too long to change tactics and subs.

[peterc]

Defoe was superb in the first half! What game were you watching. The whole team were a bit off in the second half. Keano was dire I thought.

Also Robbo, you were doing so well....why come out of goal like that!

Sorry don't agree, Defoe was continuos;y caught offside and lost possession on quite a few occasions, can't understand how you can say that he was superb, think u might have been watching another game.

[Ginola's Son]

making runs, lots of pace, getting stuck in. He did for me.

[wayne wonder]

Im fuming i dont care what anyone says **** them all off:mad:

[nuttyhotspurs]

Sorry mate I'm so pissed off that I mis understood what u wrote, my apologies, shame Jol does not admit that he also fcuked up big time tonight. He takes too long to change tactics and subs.

no worries im pissed aswell and so gutted we let another lead slip.

yea i think jol should of held his hands up after the game. when asked why he brought keane on instead of mido, his feeble excuse of mido hasnt played for a while and keane is a great footballer just doesnt cut it. mido shouldnt have been on the bench if he wasnt capable of playing in the match . he didnt have to play the remaining 70 mins or so. keane could of come on later

[nuttyhotspurs]

making runs, lots of pace, getting stuck in. He did for me.


he did it for me too. left completely isolated again without berby on the pitch. him and keane do NOT go together at all.

[choda]

How bitterly disappointing.

We played SO well in the first half, and as usual....we blew it.

We really need a new big striker to replace Berby, because Jol only brought Keane on because he has lost confidence in Mido. DAMN that injury to Berbatov, he looked good for a few goals. We really seemed to be rocking them first half, if we only took more of them chances, because the goons turned on the style second half, and we just decided to give them so much bloody space. Once players like Eboue and Hleb were out there, it was half a side of seniors. We shot ourselves in the foot and its sickening, but not entirely unexpected.

Seeing as no-one has won at their place yet, I guess thats it.

But we really gave it some welly first half and we at least aren't losers in the result sense.

Yea, that was very tell tail. Surely Mido was the replacement. He must have no confidence in him now. But even if Berba stayed on it doesn't have anything to do with the second half performance. We were just a disgrace. We had no work rate and tempo. And on the the ball we were a bunch of cowards.

Why didn't they keep the ball rolling ffs, and going forward? When you stop doing that you are just going to lose the ball.

And I must say if I was the manger I'd have been absolutely roaring at people on the sideline. Why wasn't Jol demanding they start working again and moving the ball with tempo?

And am I the only one that sees how important winners and leaders like Davids are to teams? There's no way even a past his best Davids would've let the team go down whimpering the way it did, and has done many times this year.

Some of our lads need to grow up fast and it is my opinion that they need a midfield leader right now because they are just going missing too often.

Last year we had two senior figures in midfield in Carrick and Davids, at present we have none.

[Ginola's Son]

Nah, Davids would have lost his head and got sent off. I was happy with the line-up up until that dratted injury.

[nuttyhotspurs]

[QUOTE=choda;37152]And am I the only one that sees how important winners and leaders like Davids are to teams? There's no way even a past his best Davids would've let the team go down whimpering the way it did, and has done many times this year.QUOTE]

well said. i made a point about this a few threads back. we lacked a leader in the 2nd half tonite to sort us out coz like you said jol didnt. a "match fit" davids would of done the trick. but it aint ever gonna happen again is it

[wayne wonder]

Im mad with Jol so much right now he's doing my head!!

What was hudd doing?? he's slow as **** and never helped zokora out

[nuttyhotspurs]

And how many times did we attack on the left, not one fu**ing time. Always on the right! If we have £10 mil to splash on Bale, forget that! For that amount we can have a great left midfielder!

i don't know about everyone else but 10m for bale makes me cringe. surely the 10m would be better spent on a winger. make a team an offer they cant refuse i.e pederson from blackburn hint hint

[choda]

Defoe had a very good game for me, but he can't play up on his own. He's rubbish at doing that job. He's not good at getting a hold of it and picking the right options.

I think we can partly blame the manager, but again it's the players who have to step up. Who's to say we'd have been just as bad with Mido or even Berb. The team lost all it's purpose, tempo and courage.

[choda]

Im mad with Jol so much right now he's doing my head!!

What was hudd doing?? he's slow as **** and never helped zokora out

I wouldn't blame Hudd, he's only young and he's the sitter. Zokora was a disgrace second half. What he ****s wrong with him? The amount of time he gave to fabregas all second half was beneath contempt. He was the one who should have pressed the arsenal midfielders up the pitch.

And I might add, and I could be way off, but he last time I saw displays like this was when Chris Hughton was the no. 2 for Ireland. Exactly the same shit. Are they going to turn up or not, are they going to criumble mid game and stop passing it?

[choda]

Nah, Davids would have lost his head and got sent off.

That's a bit glib mate. And if you only think it was Berbatov going off then you're missing a load of other factors.

[Billywhizz]

The midfield was very flat know one got close to Fabregas and he gave us a master class, Jol got it tactically wrong again when subbing Berby, Davids has to play in the next game, we need a leader and he's the only one we've got. :( :( :( :(

[wayne wonder]

I wouldn't blame Hudd, he's only young and he's the sitter. Zokora was a disgrace second half. What he ****s wrong with him? The amount of time he gave to fabregas all second half was beneath contempt. He was the one who should have pressed the arsenal midfielders up the pitch.

And I might add, and I could be way off, but he last time I saw displays like this was when Chris Hughton was the no. 2 for Ireland. Exactly the same shit. Are they going to turn up or not, are they going to criumble mid game and stop passing it?

H ecant tackle mate and zokora stopped doin the things he did in the 1st half and how dare they give fabregas so much time??????????

[Spur]

Zokora's pure two bob, he ain't nothing special now. He's had his honeymoon period and now it's time to step up he can't. Huddlestone was made to look bad because everyone around him was shit.

How many chances do we need to score a goal? It's unreal. No other team is like this I don't understand.

Why we sat back I will never know. Our two centre mid's were so far back they contributed nothing to any attack and yet they were still able to be completely walked through. Embarrassing.

Somebody explain to me why Anthony Gardner - possibly the worst player in our squad - was our best player on the pitch?

Robbie Keane had a shocker. He did nothing all game. Actually that's a lie, let me rephrase. All he did all game was stand around with his hand in the air.

I applaud Steed. At least someone was trying, he must be knackered right now doing 3 or 4 people's jobs, well done to him. Everyone else can walk off in shame.

We need some people with passion. I thought on the way home about the fact that I support a Club with heart and soul, and yet no players playing tonight had that heart and soul. No passion.

A typical away performance that second half was. Shame it was at home.

Still it's not over yet, 1 goal wins it. Keep the faith COYS.

Just like to congratulate the crowd on always being behind the team. Forget about being the 12th man tonight we were numbers 1 through to 16.

[Welsh Spur]

I forgot about that in my rant (see Post-First leg blues...)

Malbranque was one of my favourite things about tonight. Worked his ****ing socks off. And fair play to Berby - he did well and looked on form, hit a post and scored a goal, he escapes unscathed from the damning verdict too.

[Spur]

Had Berby stayed on I think we wouldn't have folded. I think we could have actually done them 4-0.

[proto]

same problem as saturday, big gaping hole where there should be an attacking midfielder. i was damn impressed with steed again, i was really unsure about him when we signed him, but the guys got some real fire in his belly. the sooner we get a specific lefty the better, so steed can run around the middle. hudd was shit for the most part tonight, by his own standards anyway, but again, i think partly because there wasn't attacking midfeilder in front of him needing to be marked, but partly he was unusualy inacurate at times and partly he had moments of complacency. berb going off made me realise just how essential he is atm as a link as well as a finisher. defoe and keane seem to need things delivered on a silver platter (again the need for the attacking midfielder), berb'll make the best of what hes getting, better than the other 2 do anyway. zokora wasn't good, i think he and hudd need to be competing for the same spot, they don't seem to have any chemistry. i don't get why we play them flat we need a.... i'm repeating myself.

wheres that french kid? i read he did good in the reserves, even if hes not all that yet, i'd rather see him underperforming on the left than zokora underperforming paralel with hudd, and put steed right in the thick of it with freedom where his energy is gonna freak out the oposition while one strikers moving around slightly deeper than the other striker whos moving left-right ready to roll off a defenders shoulder. hudds just too sedate for that position. maybe with the rocker guy jol will feel less compelled to defend his defence.

and god-dammit how many lame passes did we make in the last 3rd

but hey, at least we can steal the tie where it'll hurt the bastards worst now... hopefully...if we can get it right :rolleyes:

[spursmadnick06]

Sorry mate but I 'm sure many will agree that Defoe should have stayed at home today, he was practically non existant, except for his cross for the first goal. I sill think that he is over rated. All in all, a very bad second half performance, we were outclassed by a bunch of kids.

Coudln't disagree more. Defoe is our best striker on goals per game ratio in his Spurs career out of any of our strikers.

The goal he set up today was very important and certainly more than Keane did all game!

I for one hope it's Defoe and Berbatov at the Emirates next week.

[choda]

Coudln't disagree more. Defoe is our best striker on goals per game ratio in his Spurs career out of any of our strikers.

The goal he set up today was very important and certainly more than Keane did all game!

I for one hope it's Defoe and Berbatov at the Emirates next week.

He's definitely improved his movement and played well tonight, but let's not get ahead of ourselves.

Here are the facts (I whipped out my calculator for this):

The overall records are Defoe has 1 goal in 2.5 games and Keano has 1 goal in 2.65.

However, their records in the premiership (quality opposition) are 1 goal in 3 games for Defoe and 1 goal in 2.67 games for Keano.

Now, the goals stats are pretty similar with Keano being more prolific at the top level. This is also added to the fact that Keano's a miles better all round footballer.

Frankly, if Chelsea offer 20 million for Defoe I think we should bite their hands off.

And I think to criticise Keane for tonights performance is stupid. He came on during the pathetic end of our night (huge difference) and was once again played where the manager wanted him and not where he is best.

It's actually the whole team and manager that deserves criticism, and particularly ZOKORA.

[proto]

lol, you should rename yourself "Zanussi" brother.. that was the appliance of science :D

[gekko_spur]

It seems to me that we play immensely well in short periods in games but can not keep that intensity going for the full 90 minutes. Which is fine, many teams can't. But where the difference lies is the inability of the Spurs to strangle the life out of a game, or keep pressure in the midfield, thus asking questions and keeping the pressure off our defence. What Spurs do (Newcastle, Chelsea, Scum last night - note all at home) is just sit back and let them play their preffered attacking game.

Is that tactics? Lack of a leader? Poor play? Arrogance because we're at home?

I can't believe that anyone in the spurs set up last night would have thought 2 goals would have been enough, especially when we clearly had the chance to stuff them good and proper. Ok, the injury to our best, most creative player clearly didn't help, but it was the woeful change to the formation that really did it for us. Did anyone else see Steed's incomprehension in what Keano was telling him? It took Robbie about three attempts to tell him where he was now going to play for the rest of the match, and even then, when Keano turned to go to the left side of the field, Steed actually followed him like a lost puppy. Right there and then I knew we were done for.

But I have to say Lennon was awesome last night, as was Tony G and Berba. Hudd did ok until Fabregash decided he wanted to play, and at least Daws showed some great desire and commitment (if not totally unflappable defending). The others can hang their heads and know they can give more.

Example - late in the second half when Lennon was beating the awful left back Toure for fun why the funk was neither of the frontmen gambling, at all. Two or three times the ball fizzed right across the goal mouth and where were Defoe, Mido or keane? And thats at the Lane! Would you ever have said the same about Sheringham, Klinsmann, Linekar, Greaves - shit, even Armstrong would have been sniffing around in there.

Feel very depressed about all this, cos we are miles away from where the club should be. We could have, and should have won it 4-0.

[Gino Ginelli]

what. the. ****??! Why can we not beat these bastards?!

Why for the life of me Jol didn't go like for like and replace Berba with Mido I don't know. Instead we see Keano and a 4-5-1 when we're only 1 nil up after 10 minutes! Why change a system that was working well that early in the game? And again the left wing is left scandalously free and the central midfield lack tenacity.

I thought Ekotto did well, especially as he had to cover that flank almost entirely on his own, Chimbo and Dawson had good games, and Gardner in general was good, but got turned very easily on several occasions.

Lennon was our only really dangerous player on the night, turning Traore inside out countless times, but Defoe / Keane / Mido were never busting their guts to get on the end of those low crosses he kept providing. And how many times does Defoe get caught offside? But in the end Zokora simply doesn't close down his man, lets the opposition play through him, and when he does get it, his passing is generally terrible. Hudd needs to develop some bite in his game, but he did play alot better than Zokora I feel, even though he was equally guilty of wayward passing on several occasions.

On the plus side, Keano was ONSIDE near the end and should have scored, we did come out of the traps and score early like we needed, and we can still win the tie. Next week should see Jenas, King, Berba and Rocha involved.

BTW, did anyone notice a distinct swing of decisions in Arse's favour after the Half time power failure in Poll's changing room? I reckon Dein went in and slipped him 5 grand (or maybe something more unsavoury?!) to back him. Explains the offsides, and dodgy free kicks they got in our half.:rolleyes:

Anyway, can't believe we threw that away, Gonners in drving seat, but a better team playing next week I hope.

[Spur]

And I think to criticise Keane for tonights performance is stupid. He came on during the pathetic end of our night (huge difference) and was once again played where the manager wanted him and not where he is best.

I think to not criticise Keane's performance would be stupid.

'He came on during the pathetic end of our night '

Whats that about? He came on when we were 1-0 up, Berby went off straight after his goal, which was little after 10 minutes in.

He did a job on the left wing (where he spends alot of his time when he's up front anyway) against Chelsea, why couldn't he do it against the Scum?

Keano was one of the people that Steed was doing all the work for, all I heard from me mate behind me was 'Steed's everywhere tonight', 'Steed's playing a blinder', 'Steed's immense at the moment'. And he was right. Steed was doing all Keano's work, part of Benny's work, Zokora and Huddlestone's work he had an absolute blinder. Shame no-one else did we could of won this thing.

I stayed quiet whilst everyone around me sang 'we're going to Wembley', and I wouldn't even talk of a potential roadtrip to Cardiff no matter how much I want to sort it out already - I won't even discuss it. In fact, Neil can we ban the word 'Cardiff' from now on. Thanks.

[Spur]

Also just like to say how looking forward to getting a lefty I am, because Steed is gonna run that middle of midfield like nothing we've seen, and we've seen a whole load of shit for a long time. **** Zokora, **** Jenas, Steed and Tom H are the middle partnership we need. That or go out and buy someone who will pick us up when we need it, someone who plays with his gonads in his hand, like Barton or Parker. And I want Barry. Bale can go left wing if he's not good at defending, he's obviously got a delivery on him.

[Ginola's Son]

Keane was definitely a peripheral figure, and I feel stupid cos I said he'd be up for it.

[Chaydle]

Was keane playing I hardly noticed, apart from him continually losing possession and dropping deep and doing **** all apart form getting in peoples way!

[wayne wonder]

Also just like to say how looking forward to getting a lefty I am, because Steed is gonna run that middle of midfield like nothing we've seen, and we've seen a whole load of shit for a long time. **** Zokora, **** Jenas, Steed and Tom H are the middle partnership we need. That or go out and buy someone who will pick us up when we need it, someone who plays with his gonads in his hand, like Barton or Parker. And I want Barry. Bale can go left wing if he's not good at defending, he's obviously got a delivery on him.

I'd have parker/barton and steed in the middle!! Tom cant tackle for toffee and it pisses me off the guys built like a f*cking tank yet he's a ***** in the tackle and slow too and the arsenal players were flying passed him.

Get hargreaves in ASAP :mad:

[hastingsyid]

Well what can i say,i honestly thought we was gonna hit 3 or 4 against them ******s,going forward they looked good but our defenders were looking good,at the back they were very suspect and i thought we would take advantage,huge blow when berby went off and we defo miss our king at the back.Absolutely pissed off at the moment but i still believe we can go to the emirshites and get a result...............coys

[suBerb]

Just heard an interview with Brba. His injury is not serious. Perhaps he will be ready for the second leg vs. the arse.

[hastingsyid]

Just heard an interview with Brba. His injury is not serious. Perhaps he will be ready for the second leg vs. the arse.

Great news,any news on ledders yet

[hastingsyid]

Just heard an interview with Brba. His injury is not serious. Perhaps he will be ready for the second leg vs. the arse.

Great news,any news on ledders yet

[Chewy]

Anybody else starting to notice Huddlestone is a tad bit over-rated? Yes he is a good player, has a good shot on him and can only improve but I don't think he is not as good as people are making him out to be at the moment. I would much prefer the mid-field to be:

Lennon Jenas Zokora Malbranque

I am saying this for one simple reason, Huddlestone can't track back after players, hes too slow. We need the likes of Zokora and Jenas who can chase players down in mid-field.

[JJ]

Anybody else starting to notice Huddlestone is over-rated? Yes he is a good player, has a good shot on him and can only improve but I don't think he is not as good as people are making him out to be at the moment. I would much prefer the mid-field to be:

Lennon Jenas Zokora Malbranque

I am saying this for one simple reason, Huddlestone can't track back after players, hes too slow. We need the likes of Zokora and Jenas who can chase players down in mid-field.

Huddlestone did a better job defensively than Zokora did. You just can't play Zokora and Huddlestone together. Neither of them were pushing up, and they just get confused about who should be where so it was easy to get in behind them. Stick Jenas with Huddlestone and the roles are alot clearer.

[Spur]

Anybody else starting to notice Huddlestone is a tad bit over-rated? Yes he is a good player, has a good shot on him and can only improve but I don't think he is not as good as people are making him out to be at the moment. I would much prefer the mid-field to be:

Lennon Jenas Zokora Malbranque

I am saying this for one simple reason, Huddlestone can't track back after players, hes too slow. We need the likes of Zokora and Jenas who can chase players down in mid-field.

We also need a midfielder who can actually pass, because those you've mentioned there PAH! Zokora making a defnce splitting pass no way Jose! Jenas being able to make any kind of pass your in cuckoo land right now.

[JJ]

Also i don't think Huddlestone can be blamed entirely for his lack of accuracy. At the moment he has having to do all of the distribution, and i don't think he's ready to be that influential yet. Like Spur says, another midfielder who can knock the ball around would be useful.

[Spur]

Also i don't think Huddlestone can be blamed entirely for his lack of accuracy. At the moment he has having to do all of the distribution, and i don't think he's ready to be that influential yet. Like Spur says, another midfielder who can knock the ball around would be useful.

He was made to look bad yesterdy by the fact he had three people to aim at all game as well.

This was basically our formation:

--------CF--------
LW-------------RW

LB---TG---CB---RB

Wondering where the centre mid's are? Me too. Whenever Huddlestone got the ball he had either lump to the opposite wing, or palm it off to Aaron or Chimbo, that was it. Steed tried for him, but Zokora let Hudd down big time. Yesterday we needed Ghaly, my mate said so at half time as well, he would have picked up the ball and run forward with it, Zokora did this maybe twice.

[neilmcnab]

thought all footballers shud be able to pass the ball, mayb thats our team prob too many of them cant pass, as we saw all of arse players can pass the ball, too many of opurs dont want the ball, instead of finding space they stand next to a player,

[AssaTM]

Get a left midfielder, Steed and The Hudd in the middle, sorted :) dunno why he's after Bale/a left back so much, it'd be nice sure, but I think we need our midfield sorted out first, shift some players, bring in a Left Midfielder even if it costs alot, because it IS needed ;p

[JJ]

thought all footballers shud be able to pass the ball, mayb thats our team prob too many of them cant pass, as we saw all of arse players can pass the ball, too many of opurs dont want the ball, instead of finding space they stand next to a player,

It's not just the passing though, there's not enough movement leaving very few options.

[choda]

I think to not criticise Keane's performance would be stupid.

'He came on during the pathetic end of our night '

Whats that about? He came on when we were 1-0 up, Berby went off straight after his goal, which was little after 10 minutes in.

He did a job on the left wing (where he spends alot of his time when he's up front anyway) against Chelsea, why couldn't he do it against the Scum?

Keano was one of the people that Steed was doing all the work for, all I heard from me mate behind me was 'Steed's everywhere tonight', 'Steed's playing a blinder', 'Steed's immense at the moment'. And he was right. Steed was doing all Keano's work, part of Benny's work, Zokora and Huddlestone's work he had an absolute blinder. Shame no-one else did we could of won this thing.

I stayed quiet whilst everyone around me sang 'we're going to Wembley', and I wouldn't even talk of a potential roadtrip to Cardiff no matter how much I want to sort it out already - I won't even discuss it. In fact, Neil can we ban the word 'Cardiff' from now on. Thanks.

Well, my point is he's once again been singled out for **** all reason. Defoe was only marginally better, and he was being played in his position.

The over abuse he gets makes me sick. He ALWAYS keeps trying his best and tries to lift the team, even on his less spectacular nights. It's hard to play in a team that is not getting any good play going. THE ATTACKERS NEED GOOD BALL.

It was the same at the start of the year, eveybody was abusing all the strikers. The real problem was the midfeild setup and none of them getting a proper run in the team. This time it was the performance of the engine room.

The guys who deserve the real criticism are the whole unit and if you want to single one out single out Zokora (whcih you have done). He was shocking, Fabregas could just sit and dictate.

Gardner and Lennon are the only ones who really played well for 90 minutes.

Jol talked about tiredness this season. Is that an adequate reason? Maybe it is, this is a young team which also has some new foreigners. I think this is one of the main explanations for our inconsistancy. It's not easy going for all the comps and succeeding in all of them.

Having said that the minimium expectation of this team is to get back into europe. Hopefully we can win a cup as well.

We need to take a chill pill and look at the big picture. Rome wasn't built in a day.

[Welsh Spur]

This was basically our formation:

--------CF--------
LW-------------RW

LB---TG---CB---RB

Wondering where the centre mid's are? Me too.

I'm also wondering why you've used the proper abbreviations for all positions except Gardner's.....

[Welsh Spur]

Zokora making a defnce splitting pass no way Jose!

I know it was against Cardiff but who assisted Lennon for the first with, yes, you guessed it, a defence splitting pass.

[Spur]

I know it was against Cardiff but who assisted Lennon for the first with, yes, you guessed it, a defence splitting pass.

Against Cardiff? Oh **** I forgot! Champions League here we come! :D

[Spur]

I'm also wondering why you've used the proper abbreviations for all positions except Gardner's.....

Well spotted. It's because he was the only one that stood out, I thought by their performances that the rest were just bundled together off the street...?

[Spur]

Well, my point is he's once again been singled out for **** all reason. Defoe was only marginally better, and he was being played in his position.

The over abuse he gets makes me sick. He ALWAYS keeps trying his best and tries to lift the team, even on his less spectacular nights. It's hard to play in a team that is not getting any good play going. THE ATTACKERS NEED GOOD BALL.

I don't see where this is coming from. It's undeniable that he had a bad game in himself, asin not because others made him look bad - like Huddlestone having no-one to pass to - but because he did nothing but hold his hand up and talk with Steed and Benny, all game. He had a shocker. A shocker, a shocker, a shocker, a shocker. To put it simply he had a shocker. One of those games when he does nothing, and worse than that, not even doing anything remotely constructive for the team. I agree the rest were bad (EXCEPT ANTHONY GARDNER HURRAH!) but that is no reason for him to look worse than the rest is it? But he did. A shocker. Completely deserved criticism and singling out, along with the rest of the team of course who in this thread have all been singled out at least once (EXCEPT ANTHONY GARDNER, WHO HAD A BLINDER, A BLINDER, A BLINDER, A BLINDER).

We need to take a chill pill and look at the big picture. Rome wasn't built in a day.

I also used the same phrase myself less than a week ago :cool:

[choda]

I don't see where this is coming from. It's undeniable that he had a bad game in himself, asin not because others made him look bad - like Huddlestone having no-one to pass to - but because he did nothing but hold his hand up and talk with Steed and Benny, all game. He had a shocker. A shocker, a shocker, a shocker, a shocker. To put it simply he had a shocker. One of those games when he does nothing, and worse than that, not even doing anything remotely constructive for the team. I agree the rest were bad (EXCEPT ANTHONY GARDNER HURRAH!) but that is no reason for him to look worse than the rest is it? But he did. A shocker. Completely deserved criticism and singling out, along with the rest of the team of course who in this thread have all been singled out at least once (EXCEPT ANTHONY GARDNER, WHO HAD A BLINDER, A BLINDER, A BLINDER, A BLINDER).



I also used the same phrase myself less than a week ago :cool:

I'm not saying he had a good game, because he didn't. But Keano when he doesn't play well always gets more abuse than other people equally deserving. That's all I'm saying.

It annoys me when players who always stand up get criticised. Keano will always stand up, even in the bad times, when others are quietly slipping into the shadows.

In this game, (aside from the much criticised Zokora), Ekotto was raped by Eboue, Steed was doing god knows what after the system change, Dawson was panicing and hoofing everything and Robbo did a nice calamity impression for their second goal.

These are the guys who were as bad or worse than Keano but don't get anywhere near the same venom.

I'm not going to criticise Defoe because he was trying his best trying to get behind, but aside from a good cross what did he do? He did dick. He doesn't deserve criticism for the game, but neither really does Keane.

My point is Keane never hides on bad nights and then usually gets far more than his real share of the abuse. It's like people just forget what a smashing player he usually is. Irritating.

There's no, 'oh what was up with Keano, he wasn't his normal self'. It's 'Keano was shit, he ****ing useless.' Yet you hear the former from people about Dawsen, Hudd or Lennon when they have a bad night. Do you see what I'm saying?

[JuicE]

Berbatov was the best player, he must of known that MJ's tactics were only going to last 25 minutes so he decided to **** off early! :eek:

[Spur]

There's no, 'oh what was up with Keano, he wasn't his normal self'. It's 'Keano was shit, he ****ing useless.' Yet you hear the former from people about Dawsen, Hudd or Lennon when they have a bad night. Do you see what I'm saying?

Well yeah I do, but I don't think he gets more than anyone else. And I don't agree that he's always standing up and being counted, Keane is very hot and cold. If he's having a bad game then it's obvious because its far worse than anyone else's version of a bad game.

Let's face it. He's a luxory player. As are many of our players in fact. It's the reason we can play some quite lovely football, but sadly it's also the reason we can fold quicker than Superman on washing day.

In this game, (aside from the much criticised Zokora), Ekotto was raped by Eboue, Steed was doing god knows what after the system change, Dawson was panicing and hoofing everything and Robbo did a nice calamity impression for their second goal.

These are the guys who were as bad or worse than Keano but don't get anywhere near the same venom.

I have to disagree also on Benny. Indeed some people here have put him forward for MOM, I wouldn't go that far but he didn't have that bad a game. He kept Theo Walcott quiet all game. In fact he made Theo Walcott look worse than me and i'm shit. I agree it took time for Steed to realise what he was doing but quickly he became our most impressive player (EXCEPT FOR ANTHONY 'LEDLEY WHO?' GARDNER!!!).

Keane IMO, was our worst player on the pitch. ANd not by a little bit either, by a long way. I can't remember him doing anything constructive whatsoever. I have to say all criticism of him is justified. Out of ten he wouldn't even get a 4. The rest of the team would beat him that alone.

[choda]

Well yeah I do, but I don't think he gets more than anyone else. And I don't agree that he's always standing up and being counted, Keane is very hot and cold. If he's having a bad game then it's obvious because its far worse than anyone else's version of a bad game.

Let's face it. He's a luxory player. As are many of our players in fact. It's the reason we can play some quite lovely football, but sadly it's also the reason we can fold quicker than Superman on washing day.

I have to disagree also on Benny. Indeed some people here have put him forward for MOM, I wouldn't go that far but he didn't have that bad a game. He kept Theo Walcott quiet all game. In fact he made Theo Walcott look worse than me and i'm shit. I agree it took time for Steed to realise what he was doing but quickly he became our most impressive player (EXCEPT FOR ANTHONY 'LEDLEY WHO?' GARDNER!!!).

Keane IMO, was our worst player on the pitch. ANd not by a little bit either, by a long way. I can't remember him doing anything constructive whatsoever. I have to say all criticism of him is justified. Out of ten he wouldn't even get a 4. The rest of the team would beat him that alone.

Let me clarify further: When Keane is having a bad night, he doesn't stop wanting the ball or trying to do what usually gets him loads of goals and assists. What often happens is that he keeps trying and then suddenly things will start to work again and he'll score or do something magic.

Defoe on the other hand and oceans of other players on a bad night just do **** all. They just hide and get **** all abuse too. I know which is more admirable.

Players have bad games, especially guys like Keane and C. Ronaldo, but then they might go and win you the game and play like Pele next week. By the way C. Ronaldo is getting exceedingly dangerous these days now that he's developed a brain. He's always been an awesome talent, and now he's using it, scary.

And that luxury player thing is bollocks. Keane works his socks off. He's always on the move. Some of our younger players are playing like luxury players sometimes and it's something that has to stop.

I just hate that term, luxury player. It gives me visions of a guy who never works and doesn't give a shit unless he's scoring a hat-trick. And my point is: Keano is anything but that.

[JJ]

And that luxury player thing is bollocks. Keane works his socks off. He's always on the move. Some of our younger players are playing like luxury players sometimes and it's something that has to stop.

I just hate that term, luxury player. It gives me visions of a guy who never works and doesn't give a shit unless he's scoring a hat-trick. And my point is: Keano is anything but that.

He isn't a luxury player but because his game is one that is generally very technical when it doesn't come off it looks awful. And the fact that he will keep trying these little flicks here and there or letting the ball come to him instead of attacking it, it's these things that make him look bad. Very bad.

When they come off it's great, but when they don't it's often at the expense of the team. I see players make runs countless times and he tries something clever which doesn't work and that player has then run for nothing, as well as now being out of position.

Also, with regard to the never stops working thing, if he spent more time actually getting on with it instead of whining and bitching to the ref about decisions that are generally clearly right, he might get more involved and his work rate would be put to much better use.

Don't get me wrong, i think he's a fantastic player and i wouldn't want to lose him, but when it isn't coming off for him he contributes very little except complaining. At least if other players are playing badly, they tend to be able to do the normal things still (sometimes anyway :/). With Robbie, because he generally doesn't do the normal things and usually does more extravagant, yet technically better, things his contribution is then very very small.

[Danishspurs]

Agree Robbie was shit and has been most season I think, but it's mainly down to a wrong role in the team. I don't see that old Robbie anymore who constantly took deep runs with great pace and a cool finish. He's more of a midfielder now a days. He's dropping of all the time and trying to do the little trough ball or clever flink. But as I see it we don't need him to do that. He's just makes the room for the midfileder smaller and there's nobody to pass the trough ball to as there's only Berba or Defoe up front then.

We need the old Keano! Making clever runs and finishing calmly. I saw flashes of that against Soutend actually. He made some intelligent runs and didn't drop deep all the time. He was making the right run when he scored seaking a goalscoring position and he had a few more chances where his finishing wasn't the best.

But if he continues that way i think it will be great and we'll soon see him scoring more goals the he has done so far.

[choda]

Agree Robbie was shit and has been most season I think, but it's mainly down to a wrong role in the team. I don't see that old Robbie anymore who constantly took deep runs with great pace and a cool finish. He's more of a midfielder now a days. He's dropping of all the time and trying to do the little trough ball or clever flink. But as I see it we don't need him to do that. He's just makes the room for the midfileder smaller and there's nobody to pass the trough ball to as there's only Berba or Defoe up front then.

We need the old Keano! Making clever runs and finishing calmly. I saw flashes of that against Soutend actually. He made some intelligent runs and didn't drop deep all the time. He was making the right run when he scored seaking a goalscoring position and he had a few more chances where his finishing wasn't the best.

But if he continues that way i think it will be great and we'll soon see him scoring more goals the he has done so far.

Oh I agree with that. He's not a midfielder but Jol has been using him that way. The shit displays he's had have been mostly down to that.

He needs to play as a striker so his technical abilty and quick brain is used and not as JJ says hit or miss as a midfielder.

I agree with all this. But it's sparingly that it's pointed out. All that's pointed out usually is abuse when he has a bad game. And another thing that has to be taken into consideration is that he hasn't had a proper run this year.

I said this about Defoe as well (even when his his movement was awful), that if you give either of them a run in their correct position they will score goals and get a rhythm.

[Welsh Spur]

Against Cardiff? Oh **** I forgot! Champions League here we come! :D

Another great assist for Zok on Saturday! Again though, it was against Southend. Is this a worrying trend beginnin here? :confused:

[Spur]

Another great assist for Zok on Saturday! Again though, it was against Southend. Is this a worrying trend beginnin here? :confused:

You mean like he only psyches himself up for the small games? My team are like that. Everyone will play well against the shit teams because they think they can all score at once.

[Welsh Spur]

You mean like he only psyches himself up for the small games? My team are like that. Everyone will play well against the shit teams because they think they can all score at once.

It could well be.

I don't think £8.2mill for a player who only plays his game against shit teams is very good, actually its ****ing terrible. He needs to raise his game and step it up in the Premier. He can do it, I was watching him last season and during the WC. His performances for St Ettiene justify the price we paid, but he hasn't justified it here.....yet. Watch this space.

[spurs61]

It could well be.

I don't think £8.2mill for a player who only plays his game against shit teams is very good, actually its ****ing terrible...... His performances for St Ettiene justify the price we paid, but he hasn't justified it here.....yet. Watch this space.

The thing is, the French league is probably the sixth or seventh rated league in europe (by my reckoning it goes Spain, England, Italy, Germany, Holland, Portugal/France). It's hard to justify paying £8 mil for any player coming out of that standard of football. As I pointed out the other day, if Rosicky cost (a very fair) £6.7 mil, how is Zokora worth even half of that sum?

[Welsh Spur]

The thing is, the French league is probably the sixth or seventh rated league in europe (by my reckoning it goes Spain, England, Italy, Germany, Holland, Portugal/France). It's hard to justify paying £8 mil for any player coming out of that standard of football. As I pointed out the other day, if Rosicky cost (a very fair) £6.7 mil, how is Zokora worth even half of that sum?

That's a good point, Rosicky for £6.7mill makes Zokora look even less value for money. He doesn't at the moment anyway but that makes it even worse. Rosicky is one of my favourite players, shame he joined the scum really.

[JJ]

Compared to the fee for Essien, £8.2 mil is peanuts.

[spurs61]

Compared to the fee for Essien, £8.2 mil is peanuts.


Compared to Zokora, Essien is worth every penny and Zokora is still a rip-off.

[JJ]

Compared to Zokora, Essien is worth every penny and Zokora is still a rip-off.

Give it time. Essien wasn't an instant success, and now he's one of the best players in their squad.

Same with Drogba.

[Spur]

The thing is, the French league is probably the sixth or seventh rated league in europe (by my reckoning it goes Spain, England, Italy, Germany, Holland, Portugal/France). It's hard to justify paying £8 mil for any player coming out of that standard of football. As I pointed out the other day, if Rosicky cost (a very fair) £6.7 mil, how is Zokora worth even half of that sum?

Rosicky isn't a good comparison because of the state of Dortmund's financial predicament. Now let me mention Barton again who has a clause in his contract for 5.5mil...I don't think Reo-Coker would cost more than 4 or 5 at the minute either.