Trapped

[choda]

Ah, Trappatoni.

It's hard to know what to make of the old Italian.

The Irish match was abysmal to watch. It was like one of those Rafa or Jose looking for a nil-nil or a one-nil after taking a very early lead. Just awful.

I really don't care if we had won doing that, not to mind a draw. It just makes me sick. It's not football, that's not my sport. F*ck off, who cares?

He's one of those that sets his teams out and he knows exactly what he is doing off the ball. But on the ball there is no encouragement for players to show for the ball and have the moral courage to go and play.

We have plenty of good players and sitting back just let a poor Bulgarian team into the game and although they created damn all, the amount of possession meant they probably were worth a draw.

And he's playing Glenn f*cking Whelan ahead of Andy Reid which is just ridiculous. Not to mind that the old goat brought in Stokes ahead of Reid when Duff pulled out.

Some people think it's stubborness, some people think he fell out with him. Either way it's not good enough, we don't have the depth for this crap.

He's not making much of an effort to get Ireland back as well. Now some people say well he should make the effort himself. True, but we are talking about a young fella, and one with a fair few issues by the looks of it.

The manager is being paid enormous amounts of money per year to do f*ck all most of the time. It's not about his ego possibly being bruised, it's about Ireland as a team and a country and he's paid enormous money to do the best for IRELAND.

He could go and see what's wrong and help the kid back to a full career. If he made a big effort repeatedly and it still didn't work then fair enough, but he doesn't even go to games. He's never seen Ireland or Reid play a match live!

The whole thing is ridiculous. No Ireland and no Reid in an area of the pitch that is significantly weaker than the rest of the team in recent times with no Stephan Reid, Andy Reid, Carsley (another he ignores) or Ireland available.

With S. Reid and Ireland in centre midfield, Reid on the bench to come on in the centre or the right, we'd be a very much improved team that could take on anyone in my opinion. That is if the manager also encouraged quality on the ball play like he should (and has at times when he's had the right team out).

Even with the poor central midfield we had we had enough quality elsewhere after taking the lead at home to take the game to Bulgaria and hockey them.

My feeling with this fella is he will qualify us by defensive solidity and being hard to beat, but he's never going to get the most out of a talented group of players and I think the manner he is doing it is criminal with the money he is on.

I wish he'd either f*ck off or do his job properly.

He is the best manager we've had but that's not saying much to be honest. We've had one shithouse after another.

[gomessi]

So you believed in him previously but after one game he's shit?

I watched the first half then I couldnt be bothered. It looks like every irish player forgot how to pass the ball.

Stephen hunt makes downing look world class:laugh:

I thought aiden mcgeady was supposed to be good:scared: because he looked ****ing shit to me.

Actually everyone looked poor even keane looked very average well maybe apart from given.

If petrov and berbatov played you probably would have lost the match.

I dont really get your confidence in this group of players. How do you expect to do anything when your right back is paul****ing mcshane and your left back is the speed merchant with great positional sense the one and only kevin zizou kilbane :001_rolleyes:

Probably an oK manager but to many crap players (mcshane, kilban, whelan, hunt).

[berbzy 'G']

Ah, Trappatoni.

It's hard to know what to make of the old Italian.

The Irish match was abysmal to watch. It was like one of those Rafa or Jose looking for a nil-nil or a one-nil after taking a very early lead. Just awful.

I really don't care if we had won doing that, not to mind a draw. It just makes me sick. It's not football, that's not my sport. F*ck off, who cares?

He's one of those that sets his teams out and he knows exactly what he is doing off the ball. But on the ball there is no encouragement for players to show for the ball and have the moral courage to go and play.

We have plenty of good players and sitting back just let a poor Bulgarian team into the game and although they created damn all, the amount of possession meant they probably were worth a draw.

And he's playing Glenn f*cking Whelan ahead of Andy Reid which is just ridiculous. Not to mind that the old goat brought in Stokes ahead of Reid when Duff pulled out.

Some people think it's stubborness, some people think he fell out with him. Either way it's not good enough, we don't have the depth for this crap.

He's not making much of an effort to get Ireland back as well. Now some people say well he should make the effort himself. True, but we are talking about a young fella, and one with a fair few issues by the looks of it.

The manager is being paid enormous amounts of money per year to do f*ck all most of the time. It's not about his ego possibly being bruised, it's about Ireland as a team and a country and he's paid enormous money to do the best for IRELAND.

He could go and see what's wrong and help the kid back to a full career. If he made a big effort repeatedly and it still didn't work then fair enough, but he doesn't even go to games. He's never seen Ireland or Reid play a match live!

The whole thing is ridiculous. No Ireland and no Reid in an area of the pitch that is significantly weaker than the rest of the team in recent times with no Stephan Reid, Andy Reid, Carsley (another he ignores) or Ireland available.

With S. Reid and Ireland in centre midfield, Reid on the bench to come on in the centre or the right, we'd be a very much improved team that could take on anyone in my opinion. That is if the manager also encouraged quality on the ball play like he should (and has at times when he's had the right team out).

Even with the poor central midfield we had we had enough quality elsewhere after taking the lead at home to take the game to Bulgaria and hockey them.

My feeling with this fella is he will qualify us by defensive solidity and being hard to beat, but he's never going to get the most out of a talented group of players and I think the manner he is doing it is criminal with the money he is on.

I wish he'd either f*ck off or do his job properly.

He is the best manager we've had but that's not saying much to be honest. We've had one shithouse after another.

I agree, Ireland had Dunne, McGeady, Keane, Given, exc... Bulgaria had a piss poor team of players I've never heard of. It was indeed a bad performance from both sides, Ireland looked abit lazy in my opinion.

You should support the mighty England chodderz :thumbup:

[irishspur]

The game was depressing to watch we needed the second goal but didnt really go after it enough. Bulgaria deserved the slice of luck which they got because they kept the ball better. Whelan isent good enough at this level andrews maybe but id much rather have ireland back and play him with steven reid(if fit) or andrews. Andy reid is a lost cause trap wont have him back. Good points made we should qualify but that was the easiest of the 4 ''big games'' lets just hope the lads can battle out a draw in italy. With the likes of pirlo orchestrating things im not hugely confident though:thumbdown:

[wayne wonder]

Traps old school italian where defending used to be an art form trust me ireland will be hard to beat but i wont be holding out for sexy football anytime soon lads.

To be honest ive gone off international footie i couldnt be arsed to watch the england game as they bore me and only caught the highlights because our aaron was playing..........well for 45mins anyway

[olly27]

If only Stephen Ireland would play! I have a feeling if he were to play he would quickly become the pivotal player in the team...thats a big miss for Ireland.

[corkspur]

If only Stephen Ireland would play! I have a feeling if he were to play he would quickly become the pivotal player in the team...thats a big miss for Ireland.

agreed,he would add some badly needed creativity in the middle.shocker of a match saturday night,hardly deserved a point.italy will rip us apart wednesday i reckon.

[singapore spur]

what did reid do to piss off trapatoni ? sucked the jam out of his doughnut ?

[choda]

So you believed in him previously but after one game he's shit?

I watched the first half then I couldnt be bothered. It looks like every irish player forgot how to pass the ball.

Stephen hunt makes downing look world class:laugh:

I thought aiden mcgeady was supposed to be good:scared: because he looked ****ing shit to me.

Actually everyone looked poor even keane looked very average well maybe apart from given.

If petrov and berbatov played you probably would have lost the match.

I dont really get your confidence in this group of players. How do you expect to do anything when your right back is paul****ing mcshane and your left back is the speed merchant with great positional sense the one and only kevin zizou kilbane :001_rolleyes:

Probably an oK manager but to many crap players (mcshane, kilban, whelan, hunt).

You are the one that sounds like he is judging on one game. McGeady wasn't fit, he was fantastic in the last game. And as you know from spurs if players are being picked that shouldn't be it causes problems and also when the manager isn't encouraging football to be played in the right way.

This is a good group of players which is a fact. IF you get them all on the pitch and don't put fear in them to go and play.

You can keep the organisation and work rate and also play football.

You are picking out the crap players that shouldn't be picked and also in due to people missing. But by the way Kilbane is generally a very able left back and actually had a good game apart from the og.

I haven't changed my opinion on Trap wildly. I've always thought the situation with Ireland and Reid was costing us and was bound to hit home with avengence at some stage if he didn't sort it out.

And at times he doesn't seem to want football to be played, other times he does. He's confusing and very good in one way and limited in another.

Hunt works his socks off and I love the lad. And he was decent in possession and put in some good dead balls and crosses. Harsh.

Just a bad performance, don't knee jerk (like telling the pope not to be catholic :tongue_smilie:). If we didn't have the players I'd say as much, but we do.

Best team is Given, Finnan, Dunne, O'Shea, Kilbane, McGeady, S. Reid, Ireland, Duff, Keane, Doyle. If managed well that team would give anyone a hard game. It would be solid and has plenty of players that can play and match winners.

[Rojoknapp]

You are the one that sounds like he is judging on one game. McGeady wasn't fit, he was fantastic in the last game. And as you know from spurs if players are being picked that shouldn't be it causes problems and also when the manager isn't encouraging football to be played in the right way.

This is a good group of players which is a fact. IF you get them all on the pitch and don't put fear in them to go and play.

You can keep the organisation and work rate and also play football.

You are picking out the crap players that shouldn't be picked and also in due to people missing. But by the way Kilbane is generally a very able left back and actually had a good game apart from the og.

I haven't changed my opinion on Trap wildly. I've always thought the situation with Ireland and Reid was costing us and was bound to hit home with avengence at some stage if he didn't sort it out.

And at times he doesn't seem to want football to be played, other times he does. He's confusing and very good in one way and limited in another.

Hunt works his socks off and I love the lad. And he was decent in possession and put in some good dead balls and crosses. Harsh.

Just a bad performance, don't knee jerk (like telling the pope not to be catholic :tongue_smilie:). If we didn't have the players I'd say as much, but we do.

Best team is Given, Finnan, Dunne, O'Shea, Kilbane, McGeady, S. Reid, Ireland, Duff, Keane, Doyle. If managed well that team would give anyone a hard game. It would be solid and has plenty of players that can play and match winners.

:scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared:

Kilbane was shocking!!! He was truly dreadful :thumbdown:

The amount of times he was caught ball watching and the ball just went over his head (not just the o.g), or he gave the ball away, or didn't follow the one-two... it was painful to watch :glare:

As for Trap, he's hardly had any games, the defensive organisation is what we needed after Staunton's mess, and it's what we got. You have to put the boring, shitty stuff in before you get the good football going. Santini was working on a similar thing here before he left - the better attacking stuff was to follow.

I don't know what it is with Andy Reid, but I wouldn't care about it if Stephen Reid was fit - it's his place that Glenn f*cking Whelan currently occupies :cursing: Ireland - we need him desperately. He's a brilliant player, along with Keane and Given he's the best we have, but it's not Trap's fault that he won't play. He can't go and plead with him - it would make the rest of the team feel small and would diminish their respect for him. He's got to let Stephen Ireland come to him if he wants to be in the team, to send a message to the others.

[earl warwick]

:scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared:

Kilbane was shocking!!! He was truly dreadful :thumbdown:

The amount of times he was caught ball watching and the ball just went over his head (not just the o.g), or he gave the ball away, or didn't follow the one-two... it was painful to watch :glare:

As for Trap, he's hardly had any games, the defensive organisation is what we needed after Staunton's mess, and it's what we got. You have to put the boring, shitty stuff in before you get the good football going. Santini was working on a similar thing here before he left - the better attacking stuff was to follow.
I don't know what it is with Andy Reid, but I wouldn't care about it if Stephen Reid was fit - it's his place that Glenn f*cking Whelan currently occupies :cursing: Ireland - we need him desperately. He's a brilliant player, along with Keane and Given he's the best we have, but it's not Trap's fault that he won't play. He can't go and plead with him - it would make the rest of the team feel small and would diminish their respect for him. He's got to let Stephen Ireland come to him if he wants to be in the team, to send a message to the others.

Just you and Santini on that one, Rojo. He must have taken you into his confidence because no one else was aware of it. Maybe you drove the bus that was parked in front of the goal against Chelsea, as Mourinho said.

[gomessi]

You are the one that sounds like he is judging on one game. McGeady wasn't fit, he was fantastic in the last game. And as you know from spurs if players are being picked that shouldn't be it causes problems and also when the manager isn't encouraging football to be played in the right way.

This is a good group of players which is a fact. IF you get them all on the pitch and don't put fear in them to go and play.

You can keep the organisation and work rate and also play football.

You are picking out the crap players that shouldn't be picked and also in due to people missing. But by the way Kilbane is generally a very able left back and actually had a good game apart from the og.

I haven't changed my opinion on Trap wildly. I've always thought the situation with Ireland and Reid was costing us and was bound to hit home with avengence at some stage if he didn't sort it out.

And at times he doesn't seem to want football to be played, other times he does. He's confusing and very good in one way and limited in another.

Hunt works his socks off and I love the lad. And he was decent in possession and put in some good dead balls and crosses. Harsh.

Just a bad performance, don't knee jerk (like telling the pope not to be catholic :tongue_smilie:). If we didn't have the players I'd say as much, but we do.

Best team is Given, Finnan, Dunne, O'Shea, Kilbane, McGeady, S. Reid, Ireland, Duff, Keane, Doyle. If managed well that team would give anyone a hard game. It would be solid and has plenty of players that can play and match winners.


Yes I am judging on 1 game (actually just half a gameonly watched the first 45).

I think I mentioned I dont watch Ireland regularly but why should that stop me making an assesment on what I've seen.

I just gave my opinion on a 45 minutes of terrible football from Ireland. Couldnt pass from A to B and that was every single Irish player!

I'm sure you wouldnt hesititate to put your opinion of a team across if it was being discussed here.

I stick by mt opinion on Hunt I just think he is a hardoworker but very very limited for a winger.

Undoubtley a Ireland + Reid would have imroved the team but they didnt play so i only judged the players on show.

ps didnt Finnan retire from the game!!

[choda]

:scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared:

Kilbane was shocking!!! He was truly dreadful :thumbdown:

The amount of times he was caught ball watching and the ball just went over his head (not just the o.g), or he gave the ball away, or didn't follow the one-two... it was painful to watch :glare:

As for Trap, he's hardly had any games, the defensive organisation is what we needed after Staunton's mess, and it's what we got. You have to put the boring, shitty stuff in before you get the good football going. Santini was working on a similar thing here before he left - the better attacking stuff was to follow.

I don't know what it is with Andy Reid, but I wouldn't care about it if Stephen Reid was fit - it's his place that Glenn f*cking Whelan currently occupies :cursing: Ireland - we need him desperately. He's a brilliant player, along with Keane and Given he's the best we have, but it's not Trap's fault that he won't play. He can't go and plead with him - it would make the rest of the team feel small and would diminish their respect for him. He's got to let Stephen Ireland come to him if he wants to be in the team, to send a message to the others.

Okay, I need to admit that I actually fell asleep for about 30 minutes! But generally Kilbain, as I call him, has been a very able left back.

I understand what you are saying as regards defensive organisation but I don't see why he won't add the attacking play too. There's no reason for it.

You don't have to concentrate on one solely for a year and then the next part. :scared: If it was one game, and we've been here, then fine. And then he'd see, 'okay good defensively but we've no pattern and don't pass it well'.

'I need two better players in central midfield and B. I need to encourage them to show for the ball and have the moral courage to play.' I don't care what the team the coach always has to do that to get good displays as players usually won't do it on their own for fear of messing up.

Give a good coach two days with the lads or even a team talk and they'd be playing well. The ability is there aside from central midfield. And even then if you get the players back that would be very strong.

As for Ireland he doesn't have to say publicly that he is talking to him regularly or going to see him, he can just do it privately, which he isn't doing. It's absolute baloney that it might feel others feel small. Everyone knows he is probably the best Irish player along with Given.

I don't really care about making Glenn Whelan feel small, it's his problem if he takes it that way anyway. As Beckham says (isn't he a classy guy with a great attitude), it's about the country not individuals.

[choda]

Yes I am judging on 1 game (actually just half a gameonly watched the first 45).

I think I mentioned I dont watch Ireland regularly but why should that stop me making an assesment on what I've seen.

I just gave my opinion on a 45 minutes of terrible football from Ireland. Couldnt pass from A to B and that was every single Irish player!

I'm sure you wouldnt hesititate to put your opinion of a team across if it was being discussed here.

I stick by mt opinion on Hunt I just think he is a hardoworker but very very limited for a winger.

Undoubtley a Ireland + Reid would have imroved the team but they didnt play so i only judged the players on show.

ps didnt Finnan retire from the game!!

Well it's the same assessment I made of that game, but I would have thought you'd have the common sense to know that the Irish team has a lot of decent players looking at it and can play a hell of a lot better than that. And when we have a full team out it is clear it would be a fine team.

I thought Finnan came back. There are other alternatives like Joey O'Brien who is a fine player. But maybe he's unjured again. I like Stephan Kelly as well, I think he has ability. He wasn't fit in the last game and had a mare.

[Rojoknapp]

Okay, I need to admit that I actually fell asleep for about 30 minutes! But generally Kilbain, as I call him, has been a very able left back.

I understand what you are saying as regards defensive organisation but I don't see why he won't add the attacking play too. There's no reason for that.

You don't have to concentrate on one solely for a year and then the next part. :scared: If it was one game, and we've been here, then fine. And then he'd see, 'okay good defensively but we've no pattern and don't pass it well'.

'I need two better players in central midfield and B. I need to encourage them to show for the ball and have the moral courage to play.' I don't care what the team the coach always has to do that to get good displays as players usually won't do it on their own for fear of messing up.

Give a good coach two days with the lads or even a team talk and they'd be playing well. The ability is there aside from central midfield. And even then if you get the players back that would be very strong.

As for Ireland he doesn't have to say publicly that he is talking to him regularly or going to see him, he can just do it privately, which he isn't doing. It's absolute baloney that it might feel others feel small. Everyone knows he is probably the best Irish player along with Given.

I don't really care about making Glenn Whelan feel small, it's his problem if he takes it that way anyway. As Beckham says (isn't he a classy guy with a great attitude), it's about the country not individuals.

Trappatoni hasn't had a year's worth of games, he's had a handful, and he's just making a solid base to build from. Every top manager will tell you: build from the back. If you're keeping clean sheets then you will get points, and sometimes get lucky (Whelan's goal vs Georgia away) and steal a win. It takes time to sort out the sort of team that loses to Cyprus 5-2 :001_rolleyes:

The problem with having a talented team other than central midfield is that central midfield is really the most important part of a team that is looking to play nice football. I'm confident that Stephen Ireland will return one day, Steven Reid certainly will, and then things will be considerably better :001_smile:

Glenn Whelan, fine, but if all the others saw Trappatoni making visits to Stephen Ireland, talking to him, getting to know him, spending time on him, when he doesn't even go to see the others play would have a serious effect on the morale of the rest of the squad don't you think?

[choda]

Trappatoni hasn't had a year's worth of games, he's had a handful, and he's just making a solid base to build from. Every top manager will tell you: build from the back. If you're keeping clean sheets then you will get points, and sometimes get lucky (Whelan's goal vs Georgia away) and steal a win. It takes time to sort out the sort of team that loses to Cyprus 5-2 :001_rolleyes:

The problem with having a talented team other than central midfield is that central midfield is really the most important part of a team that is looking to play nice football. I'm confident that Stephen Ireland will return one day, Steven Reid certainly will, and then things will be considerably better :001_smile:

Glenn Whelan, fine, but if all the others saw Trappatoni making visits to Stephen Ireland, talking to him, getting to know him, spending time on him, when he doesn't even go to see the others play would have a serious effect on the morale of the rest of the squad don't you think?

I see we are doing colours, okay, lol. I can play paint the writing. :001_tt2:

I know what every top manager says. The first thing he had to do was make us solid. We've been solid for a long time now. The football is often lacking though and it is clear it comes from poor direction. Some of the better players are not even showing well enough. I don't know why you seem to think this takes time. It takes no more time than showing it and actually probably just saying it as they've done it before in some games for him.

Yes, that is one of the main issues which is why I stated team selection as a big issue! The Reid ommission is a glaring error and it's not good enough. Whelan can't even run better than Reid, he's so slow and he's always knackered. Plays far less first team football as well. It's just madness, makes no sense.

Well yea, but one of my big criticisms is that he doesn't go to see ANY of them play. I want to see him taking his seat at many games like Capello and I want him talking to all the lads regularly and making a special case for Ireland like you would for any player in trouble.

It also happens to be the case that he's also one of our best players in an area that is very weak. Very important.

They're all adults and the team and country is the most important thing. They would or should have that attitude. The manager deserves a lot of criticism because he is not seeing the right way and he's not doing his job properly.

You do realise during this time when the country is being hit by recession this fella is taking home 2 million a year to do a part-time job - which he isn't even doing fully!

[TURKISH]

David o'leary for the Ireland job imo. Or what about Roy Keane?

[Rojoknapp]

David o'leary for the Ireland job imo. Or what about Roy Keane?

:angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry:

Roy Keane = traitor.

[wayne wonder]

David o'leary for the Ireland job imo. Or what about Roy Keane?

Whoa is O'Leary still alive? probably still living off that money he robbed from Leeds :001_rolleyes:

[choda]

David o'leary for the Ireland job imo. Or what about Roy Keane?

Hold on I didn't say sack him!

Not yet anyway. I'd like to think he'll sort these things out.

As for Rojo on Roy. :001_rolleyes: Man's a hero. Always does the noble thing for the big picture and years to come instead of instant gratification and despite enormous stick he will take from numpties who don't get it.

Even Sunderland will defo stay up and he gave them the best chance when he knew his relationship with the new owner wasn't going to work and he possibly wasn't sure the players were playing for him anymore. But he didn't say that for months as it would be unprofessional and bad for sunderland to put a slight on the club when hunting for a new man.

Wasn't holding out for compensation either while the club went under like many managers would do.

Just takes flack because he's misunderstood. I've all the time in the world for Roy Keane. If there were less spoofers, selfish c*nts and bullshitters and more Roys the world would be a better place.

The criticism or at least the level and manner of the criticism he gets is totally ridiculous.

[Rojoknapp]

Hold on I didn't say sack him!

Not yet anyway. I'd like to think he'll sort these things out.

As for Rojo on Roy. :001_rolleyes: Man's a hero. Always does the noble thing for the big picture and years to come instead of instant gratification and despite enormous stick he will take from numpties who don't get it.

Even Sunderland will defo stay up and he gave them the best chance when he knew his relationship with the new owner wasn't going to work and he possibly wasn't sure the players were playing for him anymore. But he didn't say that for months as it would be unprofessional and bad for sunderland to put a slight on the club when hunting for a new man.

Wasn't holding out for compensation while the club went under like many managers would do.

Just takes flack because he's misunderstood. I've all the time in the world for Roy Keane. If there were less spoofers, selfish c*nts and bullshitters and more Roys the world would be a better place.

The criticism or at least the level and manner of the criticism he gets is totally ridiculous.

You're the numpty who doesn't get it. Keane left because he was being a baby - he was Fergie's golden boy, and he couldn't believe that little old Mick McCarthy would have the temerity to stand up to Roy f*cking Keane. Arrogant prick - though I suppose he learned from the best.

[TURKISH]

Whoa is O'Leary still alive? probably still living off that money he robbed from Leeds :001_rolleyes:

Poor old dirty Leeds..:001_rolleyes:

[gomessi]

Poor old dirty Leeds..:001_rolleyes:

look at my my youtube vid and you'll be saying dirty Dildo's.

[TURKISH]

What about Nigel Worthington? The guy looks to be taking Northen Ireland to a World Cup, but I'm not surprised they have better players than the republic.

[gomessi]

What about Nigel Worthington? The guy looks to be taking Northen Ireland to a World Cup, but I'm not surprised they have better players than the republic.

:laugh: WUM :001_tt2: :001_tt2:

[olly27]

What about Nigel Worthington? The guy looks to be taking Northen Ireland to a World Cup, but I'm not surprised they have better players than the republic.

I am Northern Ireland and England fan. I dont think we have a better squad than the Republic!! I think Northern Ireland, at the moment anyway, is a prime example of the team being bigger than sum of its individual parts - not the case with the Republic though. To be honest thats what managment is all about.

[wayne wonder]

I am Northern Ireland and England fan. I dont think we have a better squad than the Republic!! I think Northern Ireland, at the moment anyway, is a prime example of the team being bigger than sum of its individual parts - not the case with the Republic though. To be honest thats what managment is all about.

So who's the best player you currently have would you say healy??

[olly27]

So who's the best player you currently have would you say healy??

Would have to be due to his extraordinary goal scoring record at International level - the mind boggles why he can't do half as much at club level.

Kyle Laferty, the gangly guy, is a tidy player too. Hughes and Evans (bound to be a future captain) contribute to a decent back line. Mcartney's alright - The Goal keeper position is a bit weak though. Davis and the hard working Sammy Cregan and co in midfield arn't bad - actually the cenrtral midfield area has some real workers in there. Turining out to be quite a tenacious little side with a proflic goal scorer up top - at International level anyway. Windsor Park is defintely a factor too - that generates some atmosphere for only having a 14 thousand capacity.

The Republic have a better squad of players for sure - but whether they play better as a team at the moment is another question.

[highlander]

What about Nigel Worthington? The guy looks to be taking Northen Ireland to a World Cup, but I'm not surprised they have better players than the republic.

definately not true, not by any stretch of the imagination

[wayne wonder]

Would have to be due to his extraordinary goal scoring record at International level - the mind boggles why he can't do half as much at club level.

Kyle Laferty, the gangly guy, is a tidy player too. Hughes and Evans (bound to be a future captain) contribute to a decent back line. Mcartney's alright - The Goal keeper position is a bit weak though. Davis and the hard working Sammy Cregan and co in midfield arn't bad - actually the cenrtral midfield area has some real workers in there. Turining out to be quite a tenacious little side with a proflic goal scorer up top - at International level anyway. Windsor Park is defintely a factor too - that generates some atmosphere for only having a 14 thousand capacity.

The Republic have a better squad of players for sure - but whether they play better as a team at the moment is another question.

I know he cant even get a game for the mackems i just dont know what the problem is with him maybe needs to go to a championship team?

Laferty's ok watched him a few times for ranegrs but they play him left wing which is odd to be honest. I'd love your boys to get through to a final be great for irish footie

[TURKISH]

LMAO I can't believe people fell for my Northen Ireland is better than Republic line.

But I'm sick and tired of hearing how great Republic are if everyone was fit and if there big name manager did this and did that. Northen Ireland have been shite for years until Lawrie Sanchez took over, he produced some amazing results and nearly got them qualified for the Euro's in a group with Spain and Sweden (he got them over 20 points!). Then they appointed Nigel Worthington who again is not a big name manager but he's getting the best out of an ordinary squad, amazing. I hope they qualify because they deserve it IMO.

Fifa Rankings still say Northen Ireland are better and the fact of the matter is as a team they have been consistently better than Republic.

Johnny Evans looks to be there best player IMO.

[berbzy 'G']

LMAO I can't believe people fell for my Northen Ireland is better than Republic line.

But I'm sick and tired of hearing how great Republic are if everyone was fit and if there big name manager did this and did that. Northen Ireland have been shite for years until Lawrie Sanchez took over, he produced some amazing results and nearly got them qualified for the Euro's in a group with Spain and Sweden (he got them over 20 points!). Then they appointed Nigel Worthington who again is not a big name manager but he's getting the best out of an ordinary squad, amazing. I hope they qualify because they deserve it IMO.

Fifa Rankings still say Northen Ireland are better and the fact of the matter is as a team they have been consistently better than Republic.

Johnny Evans looks to be there best player IMO.

David Healey :001_rolleyes:

[TURKISH]

David Healey :001_rolleyes:

Who does he play for?:001_rolleyes:

[choda]

You're the numpty who doesn't get it. Keane left because he was being a baby - he was Fergie's golden boy, and he couldn't believe that little old Mick McCarthy would have the temerity to stand up to Roy f*cking Keane. Arrogant prick - though I suppose he learned from the best.

He came back for Brian Kerr and didn't have a problem with him. Brian Kerr is much smaller name than Mick McCarthy.

This was after a restructuring of the FAI and Brian Kerr ran it very professionally. Keane was unhappy for the best part of 9 years and bit his lip all that time. Then he had enough in the shambles in Saipan.

Bottom line is he was right. McCarthy should have just had to take him to one side privately and discuss the fact that he should have dodged the journo questions and brought it up between themselves. Instead he whipped a paper out from behind his back in front of all the lads and tried to humiliate his captain. Great management :001_rolleyes:, bound to end up in a huge argument.

McCarthy made it blow up instead of handling it properly, owning up to his mistake of having his players training on a pitch that could break a leg and not having any footballs for three days, apologising and letting Roy apologise for talking to the paper.

It's a question of old Ireland (happy go lucky, unorganised, jobs for the boys) or new Ireland where we add professionalism and ambition to the good points we have.

Roy did us all a favour, even to those who don't know it. It was a such a huge issue and symbol he actually did the country a favour. We now have an association that is finally getting its act together in many ways and have appointed Trap who is a class above anyone we've ever had before.

Even if some of what he is doing right now is not pleasing me one bit.

I've never seen Irish sport in such good shape as it is now. We've sportspeople that can accept the favourite tag and fulfil potential. The Rugby was setup so well from the ground up to win and win big it has like never before if you add the triple crowns and what is possibly to come.

And Harrington is winning majors in Golf, Rory McIlroy is a superstar in the making. The Irish jockeys run amuck for the size of the country.

There's a new ambition and professionalism throughout sport in this country and I think Roy has a lot to do with that. He is a real leader.

[choda]

LMAO I can't believe people fell for my Northen Ireland is better than Republic line.

But I'm sick and tired of hearing how great Republic are if everyone was fit and if there big name manager did this and did that. Northen Ireland have been shite for years until Lawrie Sanchez took over, he produced some amazing results and nearly got them qualified for the Euro's in a group with Spain and Sweden (he got them over 20 points!). Then they appointed Nigel Worthington who again is not a big name manager but he's getting the best out of an ordinary squad, amazing. I hope they qualify because they deserve it IMO.

Fifa Rankings still say Northen Ireland are better and the fact of the matter is as a team they have been consistently better than Republic.

Johnny Evans looks to be there best player IMO.

Only in recent years and that's because we had a shambles under staunton. But our shambles is finishing third or fourth in groups. Northern Ireland shambles is rock bottom, which is where they were under Sammy McIlroy.

[TURKISH]

Only in recent years and that's because we had a shambles under staunton. But our shambles is finishing third or fourth in groups. Northern Ireland shambles is rock bottom, which is where they were under Sammy McIlroy.

I think its utter class what Northern Ireland are doing IMO and I hope they make it to the World Cup. They don't over complicate things and there starting to bring on some great younger talent.

Republic on paper have a great team but for some reason haven't been able to produce the goods, how they get beat by teams like Cyprus I don't know. You have players like Given, Dunne, O'shea, Finnan (ok retired now), Duff, Reid (not the tubby one) Ireland (well when that **** stops thinking about his feelings :001_rolleyes:), keane, Mcgeady, Doyle and Hunt. I'm also guessing I've missed out a few gems also but IMO they picked the wrong boss to take over it should of been David O'leary who has a good track record and has worked with some cracking players. He brought the best out of players like Viduka, Kwell, Bridges, Bowyer, Robinson and a few others. Now look how they turned out?

I think he would of had the experience and the knowledge of knowing what Irish football is all about and what it takes to play for your country. Not a defensive run down version of Capello :001_rolleyes: and I can't see the Republic improving any time soon under Him. I've learnt full well that not the most glamorous of managers work and sometimes you need that simple option that ticks all the right boxes instead of trying to over complicate matters. Take Harry Redknapp, Big Sam, Nigel Worthington, Walter Smith when he joined the scottish national side who were labelled a joke under Berti bassie. You need these types of managers who know how to manage at that level instead of picking a supposdley big name manager who doesn't have a clue other than the league he just came out of.

Didn't Trapa tell Keane to leave spurs for pool, then once Keane returns says he's glad he's getting first team football.:001_rolleyes:

Republic need there identify back Mick gave them that and I believe David O'Leary would do wonders for you guys. You have a good young generation of players coming through the ranks now and you need a manager who will build a side around Ireland, Mcgeady, Keane, Doyle and dunne.

Good luck with the other nations but I just feel these foreign managers sometimes over complicate things, the reason why it worked with England was because we needed someone who would not take any shit and restore order amongst the English playboys.

[Rojoknapp]

He came back for Brian Kerr and didn't have a problem with him. Brian Kerr is much smaller name than Mick McCarthy.

This was after a restructuring of the FAI and Brian Kerr ran it very professionally. Keane was unhappy for the best part of 9 years and bit his lip all that time. Then he had enough in the shambles in Saipan.

Bottom line is he was right. McCarthy should have just had to take him to one side privately and discuss the fact that he should have dodged the journo questions and brought it up between themselves. Instead he whipped a paper out from behind his back in front of all the lads and tried to humiliate his captain. Great management :001_rolleyes:, bound to end up in a huge argument.

McCarthy made it blow up instead of handling it properly, owning up to his mistake of having his players training on a pitch that could break a leg and not having any footballs for three days, apologising and letting Roy apologise for talking to the paper.

It's a question of old Ireland (happy go lucky, unorganised, jobs for the boys) or new Ireland where we add professionalism and ambition to the good points we have.

Roy did us all a favour, even to those who don't know it. It was a such a huge issue and symbol he actually did the country a favour. We now have an association that is finally getting its act together in many ways and have appointed Trap who is a class above anyone we've ever had before.

Even if some of what he is doing right now is not pleasing me one bit.

I've never seen Irish sport in such good shape as it is now. We've sportspeople that can accept the favourite tag and fulfil potential. The Rugby was setup so well from the ground up to win and win big it has like never before if you add the triple crowns and what is possibly to come.

And Harrington is winning majors in Golf, Rory McIlroy is a superstar in the making. The Irish jockeys run amuck for the size of the country.

There's a new ambition and professionalism throughout sport in this country and I think Roy has a lot to do with that. He is a real leader.

You're not seriously giving Roy Keane credit for the Grand Slam, jockey's success, and the success of McIlroy and Harrington????

And even if you think Keane was right in his argument vs McCarthy, you really don't think he could have waited until after the World Cup? And what about all the last minute in the squad, out, in, out, in, out bullshit?

[berbzy 'G']

Who does he play for?:001_rolleyes:

have a guess :001_smile:

[Rojoknapp]

As for Northern Ireland v Republic, when was N. Ireland's last major tournament? Because that's what it boils down to really. We were there as recently as 2002, and we're having a good go this time too. Unfortunately, Bulgaria could catch up on us pretty quickly though. If we lose and they win tonight, and then win their game in hand (probably against someone shit) then they're only one point behind, and we still have to go to Sofia :scared:

[berbzy 'G']

As for Northern Ireland v Republic, when was N. Ireland's last major tournament? Because that's what it boils down to really. We were there as recently as 2002, and we're having a good go this time too. Unfortunately, Bulgaria could catch up on us pretty quickly though. If we lose and they win tonight, and then win their game in hand (probably against someone shit) then they're only one point behind, and we still have to go to Sofia :scared:

Didnt know you were Irish? thought you were a Tottenham season ticket holder

[Rojoknapp]

Didnt know you were Irish? thought you were a Tottenham season ticket holder

Yep, born in England but raised Irish :thumbup:

[berbzy 'G']

Yep, born in England but raised Irish :thumbup:

Your a Paddy :thumbup:

[TURKISH]

Yep, born in England but raised Irish :thumbup:

They call them plastic paddy's don't they? If you were a footballer who would you play for England your birth place or Ireland?

[Rojoknapp]

They call them plastic paddy's don't they? If you were a footballer who would you play for England your birth place or Ireland?

I would play for Ireland :001_smile:

[berbzy 'G']

I would play for Ireland :001_smile:

Rojoknapp and Keane upfront. What a partnership :001_rolleyes:

[choda]

You're not seriously giving Roy Keane credit for the Grand Slam, jockey's success, and the success of McIlroy and Harrington????

And even if you think Keane was right in his argument vs McCarthy, you really don't think he could have waited until after the World Cup? And what about all the last minute in the squad, out, in, out, in, out bullshit?

Yes I am giving him some credit. People have to pave the way for others. And sometimes change things.

I don't think you understand your own nation!

Irish people have always had this inferiority complex. Probably from all the abuse we got from Britain for centuries and being a relatively new country.

If you don't think Saipan had a widespread impact much like Italia 90 produced an amazing euphoria, you are mistaken. Sport can have enormous impact. People who live in Ireland can tell you Italia 90 had a big impact on the country and maybe was part of starting the celtic tiger and a new emerging Ireland. One that doesn't feel abused anymore and believes in itself.

Roy's act was another defining moment.

Saipan produced fecking parlament debate and took over questions and answers for two weeks. You may have missed all of this as you were 10 at the time.

The in and out was all to do with the way it blew up as Mick handled it badly. And he didn't apologise for his part and Roy was in a horrible position. I don't want to stick the knife into Mick as he was a loyal servant and former captain and did alright as manager, but there were things he got very wrong.

Sometimes it takes a man like Roy to change things. Someone who is not afraid to be called a c*nt.

If you don't think figures can have an impact you are wrong. And whether you like him or not Roy is a MEGA figure in Ireland.

He's the king of the largest county for one thing. And he's half the countries king of Ireland. He's certainly my king. Legend.

[choda]

I think its utter class what Northern Ireland are doing IMO and I hope they make it to the World Cup. They don't over complicate things and there starting to bring on some great younger talent.

Republic on paper have a great team but for some reason haven't been able to produce the goods, how they get beat by teams like Cyprus I don't know. You have players like Given, Dunne, O'shea, Finnan (ok retired now), Duff, Reid (not the tubby one) Ireland (well when that **** stops thinking about his feelings :001_rolleyes:), keane, Mcgeady, Doyle and Hunt. I'm also guessing I've missed out a few gems also but IMO they picked the wrong boss to take over it should of been David O'leary who has a good track record and has worked with some cracking players. He brought the best out of players like Viduka, Kwell, Bridges, Bowyer, Robinson and a few others. Now look how they turned out?

I think he would of had the experience and the knowledge of knowing what Irish football is all about and what it takes to play for your country. Not a defensive run down version of Capello :001_rolleyes: and I can't see the Republic improving any time soon under Him. I've learnt full well that not the most glamorous of managers work and sometimes you need that simple option that ticks all the right boxes instead of trying to over complicate matters. Take Harry Redknapp, Big Sam, Nigel Worthington, Walter Smith when he joined the scottish national side who were labelled a joke under Berti bassie. You need these types of managers who know how to manage at that level instead of picking a supposdley big name manager who doesn't have a clue other than the league he just came out of.

Didn't Trapa tell Keane to leave spurs for pool, then once Keane returns says he's glad he's getting first team football.:001_rolleyes:

Republic need there identify back Mick gave them that and I believe David O'Leary would do wonders for you guys. You have a good young generation of players coming through the ranks now and you need a manager who will build a side around Ireland, Mcgeady, Keane, Doyle and dunne.

Good luck with the other nations but I just feel these foreign managers sometimes over complicate things, the reason why it worked with England was because we needed someone who would not take any shit and restore order amongst the English playboys.

It's early days yet mate. Sven used to cruise through the groups too.

Ireland have been like spurs, when they get to the tournos/big occassions they suddenly turn up and start playing. Bit more on the manager side, which we will hopefully have, get the players back and you never know.

It's shocking we haven't qualified more in the last two decades, but we've not had good coaches.

Trap has just started. But I'm just worried as some of the basics of possession and attacking aren't being instilled in the team. Not talking about gelling the players and getting it all super gelled as a team, which does take time, but just getting them to show for the ball and move it well with good movement.

Defensively he is doing very well though. We are very hard to beat. May even get a draw tonight with many players out.

McGeady is out now. :001_rolleyes: And duff, so there will be f*ck all creativity in midfield. Now the Reid decision really bites us in the ass. Stupid, very stupid.

But still hope he will sort the problems out over time.

[berbzy 'G']

It's early days yet mate. Sven used to cruise through the groups too.

Ireland have been like spurs, when they get to the tournos/big occassions they suddenly turn up and start playing.

It's shocking we haven't qualified more in the last two decades, but we've not had good coaches.

Trap has just started. But I'm just worried as some of the basics of possession and attacking aren't being instilled in the team. Not talking about gelling the players and getting it all super gelled as a team, which does take time, but just getting them to show for the ball and move it well with good movement.

Defensively he is doing very well though. We are very hard to beat. May even get a draw tonight with many players out.

McGeady is out now. :001_rolleyes: And duff, so there will be f*ck all creativity in midfield. Now the Reid decision really bites us in the ass. Stupid, very stupid.
But still hope he will sort the problems out over time.

'' He plays on the left wing, He lives on burger King'' :001_rolleyes:

[choda]

'' He plays on the left wing, He lives on burger King'' :001_rolleyes:

He's way way better in the middle or on the right.

Ireland are actually playing well tonight. Seems they've worked on the possession and the cm's are showing for the ball. Don't know why they couldn't have done this and won the game against Bulgaria.

Don't know why McShane is playing. My God he's useless. They are targeting him every time they get the ball and got a goal from it. They've only had a few good attacks Italy.

Down to ten men and it's all Ireland, but Cannavaro is having a bloody stormer. Doyle has met his match tonight for power, determination and reading the game. It's a right ding dong and Cannavaro is winning it. He has him in his pocket and that takes some doing, but Cannavaro is football porn.

May get a result though. Need to get more width and open them up. McShane is the free man going forward too, getting space. :001_rolleyes:

Bring on Kelly at right back. McShane is such a liability.

Lacking players through all the shite and injuries though.

Hunt is doing well. Nearly scored an absolute thunderbolt volley. Buffon. :drool:

[Rojoknapp]

He's way way better in the middle or on the right.

Ireland are actually playing well tonight. Seems they've worked on the possession and the cm's are showing for the ball. Don't know why they couldn't have done this and won the game against Bulgaria.

Don't know why McShane is playing. My God he's useless. They are targeting him every time they get the ball and got a goal from it. They've only had a few good attacks Italy.

Down to ten men and it's all Ireland, but Cannavaro is having a bloody stormer. Doyle has met his match tonight for power, determination and reading the game. It's a right ding dong and Cannavaro is winning it. He has him in his pocket and that takes some doing, but Cannavaro is football porn.

May get a result though. Need to get more width and open them up. McShane is the free man going forward too, getting space. :001_rolleyes:

Bring on Kelly at right back. McShane is such a liability.

Lacking players through all the shite and injuries though.

Hunt is doing well. Nearly scored an absolute thunderbolt volley. Buffon. :drool:

:scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared:

KELLY!?!?!? :cursing: :cursing: :cursing: :cursing:

He's intolerably shit.

But anyway, we were brilliant in the second half in particular tonight, not only a good result, but a very encouraging performance. I wasn't happy with any of the subs at the time, but fair play to Trap - Folan and Gibson did very well, and Noel Hunt did ok. Great night, just wish Keanon could have capped it with a volley vs Fulham replica :drool: :drool:

[TURKISH]

As for Ireland he doesn't have to say publicly that he is talking to him regularly or going to see him, he can just do it privately, which he isn't doing. It's absolute baloney that it might feel others feel small. Everyone knows he is probably the best Irish player along with Given.

Keane is more important that Ireland but Given along with Keane are your best players. Ireland could very well become great but he needs to produce a more consistently with Man city and return to your national side.

[gomessi]

He's way way better in the middle or on the right.

Ireland are actually playing well tonight. Seems they've worked on the possession and the cm's are showing for the ball. Don't know why they couldn't have done this and won the game against Bulgaria.

Don't know why McShane is playing. My God he's useless. They are targeting him every time they get the ball and got a goal from it. They've only had a few good attacks Italy.

Down to ten men and it's all Ireland, but Cannavaro is having a bloody stormer. Doyle has met his match tonight for power, determination and reading the game. It's a right ding dong and Cannavaro is winning it. He has him in his pocket and that takes some doing, but Cannavaro is football porn.

May get a result though. Need to get more width and open them up. McShane is the free man going forward too, getting space. :001_rolleyes:

Bring on Kelly at right back. McShane is such a liability.

Lacking players through all the shite and injuries though.

Hunt is doing well. Nearly scored an absolute thunderbolt volley. Buffon. :drool:


he was unbelievably shit for a period earlier in the season. How did chillini play?

Good result glad to see keane score:001_smile:

[Smurfitz]

Great win for the Northern Ireland tonight! Important that we got that win after Saturday.

[TURKISH]

Northern Ireland win again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There going to Africa and not with Bob "do they know its christmas time" geldoff.............well fingers crossed.

[Rojoknapp]

Northern Ireland win again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There going to Africa and not with Bob "do they know its christmas time" geldoff.............well fingers crossed.

Just hold your horses one second.... Northern Ireland have played 2 more games than Slovakia, who are one point behind them, one more game than everyone else (Poland are 3 points behind them) and they (and presumably Poland after last night) have played San Marino twice, unlike Slovakia and the Czech Republic. I believe that they are also yet to play the Czechs away from home? So I wouldn't say they are going to Africa just yet.....

[olly27]

As for Northern Ireland v Republic, when was N. Ireland's last major tournament? Because that's what it boils down to really. We were there as recently as 2002, and we're having a good go this time too. Unfortunately, Bulgaria could catch up on us pretty quickly though. If we lose and they win tonight, and then win their game in hand (probably against someone shit) then they're only one point behind, and we still have to go to Sofia :scared:

When did this turn out to be Northern Ireland V the Republic!! If you wanna start breaking it down the Republic has four times the population of Northern Ireland!!

Northern Ireland play better as a side in my opinion given the difference in quality between the two squads.

[olly27]

Just hold your horses one second.... Northern Ireland have played 2 more games than Slovakia, who are one point behind them, one more game than everyone else (Poland are 3 points behind them) and they (and presumably Poland after last night) have played San Marino twice, unlike Slovakia and the Czech Republic. I believe that they are also yet to play the Czechs away from home? So I wouldn't say they are going to Africa just yet.....

Just you hold your horses...we play Slovakia at home which is a great chance, if we win, to finish at least second and have a chance of the play offs. Seems like you cant help knocking Northern Ireland!!

[wayne wonder]

Lets hope both teams get through boys plain and simple be good if all 4 teams can get through

[olly27]

Lets hope both teams get through boys plain and simple be good if all 4 teams can get through

Well said Wayners...I was giving plenty of credit to the Republic before I read Rojo's posts...I want to see them do well too, dont see why he's knocking Northern Ireland but as the saying goes its better to be talked about than not talked about at all!!!.....:001_smile: :001_smile:

[wayne wonder]

Well said Wayners...I was giving plenty of credit to the Republic before I read Rojo's posts...I want to see them do well too, dont see why he's knocking Northern Ireland but as the saying goes its better to be talked about than not talked about at all!!!.....:001_smile: :001_smile:

To be honest when you talk about them 2 teams it tends not to be about football and more about religion and i just hope we're not going down that route as we're very chilled out on this forum and getting into that is just pointless.

End of the day you're doing well after years of ridicule etc and im happy for you and the republic are doing good too its obviously people who live where you do and in the republic wont see it that way but its good for ireland as a whole especially after the rugby.

[olly27]

To be honest when you talk about them 2 teams it tends not to be about football and more about religion and i just hope we're not going down that route as we're very chilled out on this forum and getting into that is just pointless.

End of the day you're doing well after years of ridicule etc and im happy for you and the republic are doing good too its obviously people who live where you do and in the republic wont see it that way but its good for ireland as a whole especially after the rugby.

I dont really think that anyone on here has even intimated any hint of religion in these threads to be fair. I can only speak for myself but I am talking from a footballing perspective solely the 'other stuff' doesn't interest me. Contrary to some opinion not all Irish people are obsessed with religion!! The only thing I obsess over is Spurs...They come before any National side anyway!!....:001_smile: :001_smile:

[wayne wonder]

[QUOTE=olly27;135384]I dont really think that anyone on here has even intimated any hint of religion in these threads to be fair. I can only speak for myself but I am talking from a footballing perspective solely the 'other stuff' doesn't interest me. Contrary to some opinion not all Irish people are obsessed with religion!! The only thing I obsess over is Spurs...They come before any National side anyway!!....:001_smile: :001_smile:[/QUOTE

International footie for me is just boring now my main concern is just spurs spurs spurs and more spurs

[olly27]

[QUOTE=olly27;135384]I dont really think that anyone on here has even intimated any hint of religion in these threads to be fair. I can only speak for myself but I am talking from a footballing perspective solely the 'other stuff' doesn't interest me. Contrary to some opinion not all Irish people are obsessed with religion!! The only thing I obsess over is Spurs...They come before any National side anyway!!....:001_smile: :001_smile:[/QUOTE

International footie for me is just boring now my main concern is just spurs spurs spurs and more spurs

Me to mate and I didn't mind one bit that Lennon came off on 55 minutes last night - avoiding injury and playing less will see him fresher for Saturday..:001_smile:


The one thing that always feels a bit weird is when you see Terry, Gerrard and Rooney feeling each other up practically when they are suppose to be such intense rivals at club level - it just feels weird for some reason - I like the rvivals to detest each other, it makes the game so much more interesting!!

[choda]

Keane is more important that Ireland but Given along with Keane are your best players. Ireland could very well become great but he needs to produce a more consistently with Man city and return to your national side.

Well what I meant is Ireland is in the running for player of the year in the premier league with Gerrard, Vidic and one or two others, or should be anyway, which means he's been world class this year.

Yes, it is only one year but it's not a few games either. Currently you'd have to say he is one our better players at the very least.

Robbie is not world class, but he's not far away. Given is world class imo.

Yes Robbie is the captain and his presence is big for club and country so I understand what you are saying, but Ireland has been terrific this year and even slightly better than Keano imo.

By the way you don't watch Irish matches!

[choda]

:scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared: :scared:

KELLY!?!?!? :cursing: :cursing: :cursing: :cursing:

He's intolerably shit.

But anyway, we were brilliant in the second half in particular tonight, not only a good result, but a very encouraging performance. I wasn't happy with any of the subs at the time, but fair play to Trap - Folan and Gibson did very well, and Noel Hunt did ok. Great night, just wish Keanon could have capped it with a volley vs Fulham replica :drool: :drool:

Kelly isn't a world beater, but McShane is probably the worst defender we've ever had. He's even worse than Kernaghan, Breen and Doherty. I don't know why he gets any games. Anyone is better, literally.

In case you didn't notice Kelly had a fine season in the premier league with Birmingham last year. He always had ability, had a great first season at spurs when he broke into the team, which you are probably too young to remember, and then just lost his place through injuries and couldn't get back in.

He had some poor games after that. Usually on the left in fairness to him. But he has potential. I'm sure he's had a run of games now and could have played last night and would've done way better than McShane who was like a pub player playing against Italy.

Intolerably shit is way over the top for Kelly. You've probably seen a handful of games when he wasn't fit or playing on the left. Those words should be reserved for McShane who is slow, cumbersome, small, doesn't read the game, no touch, awareness. At least Kelly can play and he's got some pace and composure defending.

He wasn't fit in the last game and was thrown in at the deep end. Started horribly and lost his confidence.

McShane was targeted last night the whole of the first half and was getting butchered. If he hadn't been on the pitch they probably wouldn't have scored. Anyone defending McShane really needs to get their head checked.

He was moved inside and JoS put out right back and it stopped the threat entirely. They had no attacks down the middle anyway so it was a good move.

I was happy with Trap on the night. The team passed the ball and he made good tactical changes and subs imo. Doyle looked tired to me and had a bad night. My only criticism was starting McShane which is mad at this level and cost us two points.

[choda]

he was unbelievably shit for a period earlier in the season. How did chillini play?

Good result glad to see keane score:001_smile:

He got tired near the end Cannavaro and made some really rash fouls that really should've resulted in a penalty and bookings. He's having a swan song alright. Last night he just rolled back the years like Zizou did at the world cup, but he's basically on the way out I think. Chillini was immense. So hard to break down and Buffon behind them is the best in the world.

[wayne wonder]

[QUOTE=wayne wonder;135391]

Me to mate and I didn't mind one bit that Lennon came off on 55 minutes last night - avoiding injury and playing less will see him fresher for Saturday..:001_smile:


The one thing that always feels a bit weird is when you see Terry, Gerrard and Rooney feeling each other up practically when they are suppose to be such intense rivals at club level - it just feels weird for some reason - I like the rvivals to detest each other, it makes the game so much more interesting!!

I was junping for joy when he came off but what worried me is at least 8 of our players have played 2 matches etc + wilson will have to do some serious mileage to get back probably friday afternoon latest:thumbdown:

Blackburn have about 4/5 internationals and will be very fresh indeed and as for terry etc hugging it makes me sick as hi and lampard just shouldnt be in that team anyway overated slags

[wayne wonder]

He got tired near the end Cannavaro and made some really rash fouls that really should've resulted in a penalty and bookings. He's having a swan song alright. Last night he just rolled back the years like Zizou did at the world cup, but he's basically on the way out I think. Chillini was immense. So hard to break down and Buffon behind them is the best in the world.


Oh yep Buffon is immense i'd love him at the lane they can have gomes and cudicini if they want

[Rojoknapp]

I never knocked Northern Ireland, all I said was that a: I don't think they've been better than the Republic over the last few years, and b: While they may qualify, it is far from certain, and their position at the top of their group is slightly false. That's all I said. And it's nothing to do with religion btw, I'm atheist.

As for Kelly, I saw him play plenty of games for Spurs, not just a few for Ireland, and I thought he was a terrible player then. I had a season ticket when he broke into the team - I saw plenty of his awfulness. While McShane is bad, I don't think he should be compared to Breen!! :scared: :scared:

Breen is probably the worst defender I have ever seen at international level - I'm not exaggerating even slightly :scared:

[choda]

To be honest when you talk about them 2 teams it tends not to be about football and more about religion and i just hope we're not going down that route as we're very chilled out on this forum and getting into that is just pointless.

End of the day you're doing well after years of ridicule etc and im happy for you and the republic are doing good too its obviously people who live where you do and in the republic wont see it that way but its good for ireland as a whole especially after the rugby.

WAYNERS! Where do you get this idea from? Everyone down south wants the north to do well.

Religion has absolutely zero to do with the rep. and the north of Ireland. Within Northern Ireland there are nationalists and unionists and they happen to be catholic and protestant usually. It's about fifty fifty. Down south we just see all people on this island as Irish and wish it was a whole of Ireland team.

Not to mention that Britain should give back the six counties as well.

[choda]

I never knocked Northern Ireland, all I said was that a: I don't think they've been better than the Republic over the last few years, and b: While they may qualify, it is far from certain, and their position at the top of their group is slightly false. That's all I said. And it's nothing to do with religion btw, I'm atheist.

As for Kelly, I saw him play plenty of games for Spurs, not just a few for Ireland, and I thought he was a terrible player then. I had a season ticket when he broke into the team - I saw plenty of his awfulness. While McShane is bad, I don't think he should be compared to Breen!! :scared: :scared:

Breen is probably the worst defender I have ever seen at international level - I'm not exaggerating even slightly :scared:

At least he was tall and could win headers. McShane can't do anything right.

When did you see Kelly play? When you were what age?

Awful in his first season is pure rubbish.

And Kelly is better than McShane, no doubt about it, which is all I was saying!

I heard young Foley is the best right back we had available last night actually (apart from JoS, who imo is naturally a cb anyway).

[TURKISH]

Just hold your horses one second.... Northern Ireland have played 2 more games than Slovakia, who are one point behind them, one more game than everyone else (Poland are 3 points behind them) and they (and presumably Poland after last night) have played San Marino twice, unlike Slovakia and the Czech Republic. I believe that they are also yet to play the Czechs away from home? So I wouldn't say they are going to Africa just yet.....

Thats why I added the fingers crossed part numpty. Lets get behind Northern Ireland and wish them all the best.

[Rojoknapp]

Thats why I added the fingers crossed part numpty. Lets get behind Northern Ireland and wish them all the best.

Well you did say "N. Ireland are going to Africa!!!!!!" but never mind. I never said I don't want them to get there.... I just said what I said in my above post..... though hearing that Boruc received death threats before the Poland game doesn't endear me to them :thumbdown:

[choda]

Thats why I added the fingers crossed part numpty. Lets get behind Northern Ireland and wish them all the best.

They have been doing extremely well for the size of the population. And they've actually got a reasonable set of players. Not amazing but the keeper, Hughes, Evans, Johnson, Healy are all good players and give them a base to work from. And they perform as a team.

[gomessi]

They have been doing extremely well for the size of the population. And they've actually got a reasonable set of players. Not amazing but the keeper, Hughes, Evans, Johnson, Healy are all good players and give them a base to work from. And they perform as a team.

n ireland have done extremly well. If you want to look at size of population compared to achievement then croatia are EASILY the best best in the world.

4m population and 5th in the world

[TURKISH]

n ireland have done extremly well. If you want to look at size of population compared to achievement then croatia are EASILY the best best in the world.

4m population and 5th in the world

Poland must be up there with a shout after half there population left to come to England..:001_rolleyes: