2016
One step backwards.....
Last season, Levante were relegated after a dreadful season. The playing squad was thin, lacking goals and conceding far too many. It was so bad in fact that Gino Kinnear was moved to call the seasons performance one of his five worst on SMTV.
Now however, things are looking much brighter for the Spanish side. The results are still hit and miss, three games have seen a win, a defeat and a draw, but the performances have been much stronger, and the club have looked competitive in all three league games.
In part, three big signings for the first team squad have helped. Brazilian striker Leandro Damiao signed from German side Leverkusen, AC Milan allowed goalkeeper Jiminez Roberto to head home to Spain, and also saw Ikechi Anya join the club.
Jordan Ayew came from Stuttgart in time for last nights match. The signing of Ayew came a bit out of the blue after bids for three other midfielders were lodged, and all were promptly ignored for between 6 and 9 days.
The move for the Ghanian happened rather quickly however. The player had signed within about 48hrs of the bid originally being lodged. Levante feel they have perhaps overpaid a touch for Ayew. The fee was £10m along with John Ruddy and young striker Angel Romero. On the other hand though, a midfielder was wanted, and space was also needed within the squad, so the deal is one that we are comfortable with.
Marcello Trotta has also signed quietly over the weekend. The young Italian joins for a fee of £2m from Cesena. The player is another for the future, and is expected to feature in a few cup games to begin with whilst we look for him to realise some of that potential.
The club would still like to sign a defender, and have had a bid rejected this morning, but it is expected that from here on in, there will be more exits than entrances.
Meet the new boys
Jiminez Roberto - Goalkeeper
Jiminez joins from AC Milan for a fee of £3.5m, and also sees young Dutchman Bart Ramselaar head to Italy. The Spanish custodian was an ever present for Olympiacos in season one of Top 100, 38 appearences and netting 7 MOTM awards. He played 19 times in season two before heading toMilan and promptly being loaned to Espanyol. Whilst in Spain he made 9 appearences, and picked up another 2 MOTM awards. He has immidiately become first choice at Levante, and will be hoping for a longer stay thn he has had at his previous clubs.
Ikechi Anya - Midfield
Ikechi also joins from AC as a sweetner for allowing the talented Dutchman Ramselaar leave. The Scottish international never made a start, and only one appearence from the bench for Milan after his £2.5m move from Watford. He will also have to be patient at Levante, but will be given an opportunity to impress.
Jordan Ayew - Midfield
Ghanian wide man Ayew is now at his third different Top 100 club, and as with Jiminez Roberto, will be looking for something of a longer term stay. His previous clubs were Aston Villa, and then Stuttgart. He left the Midlands for Germany in a deal that saw Didier Drogba, Emiliano Insua and £5.4m going in the other direction. Jordan will be expected to create chances for the strikersw, and will be expected to get between 5 and 10 goals for himself also.
Leandro Damiao - Striker
Perhaps the most surprising move of all in the pre season was the talented Brazillian striker dropping down to the basement division. Levante have paid £11.7m and also allowed Guilermo Varella to head to Germany to secure the signing. Parfitt was delighted to get the signature, and two goals in three games already suggest that he could be the 15 / 20 goal man that the club have been missing. Leandro is also another player who has had his share of moves already in Top 100, having been on the books at Leverkusen, Santos, and Manchester City prior to heading to Spain.
After the incomings, along with a few youth players, Samuel Eto’o, Aiden McGeady and Adam Szalai are all expected to depart once their transfer bans are up.
On the pitch, things are looking better. The opening day saw a strong performance, one that Parfitt considers the best one Levante have managed in Top 100 to date, saw them overcome Indipendiente 3 - 1 on the opening day. The next match saw a 1 - 0 defeat to PMW’s Anderlecht in Belgium, and last nice a 1 - 1 draw with Santos was the end result. Last night’s performance wasnt ideal, but last season it is the kind of game which would have been a two or three goal defeat, so to pull the goal back and take a point was very satisfying.
The youth side started off very well this weekend also. A trip to Russia is never easy, but the youngsters returned with all three points after a very professional 4 - 2 win. The big story was Isaac Success' brace, along with an assist saw him oted MOTM, and it surely cant be too long before the young Nigerian becomes a regular first team starter. There were also goals for Steve Mounie, and Matt Miazga. The young American was last seen in Levante colours recieving a red card towards the end of last season.
The season is long, and there is a lot of football to be played, but all in all Levante are very happy with the start they have made.
Youth Cup Mini Review - Egos Crash and Top 5 Managers from GD1
“An Embarassment” - Feargal O’Hickey (VFB Stuttgart)
“A total disgrace” - David Piero (Tottenham)
“They have both been taught tonight that they wont just walk into the final.” Greg Owen (Lokomotiv Moscow)
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| The Doctor speaking to his assistant Adam Johnson prior to Wednesdays so called "Youth Cup Charity Shield" |
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| DP attending a counselling session after seeing his Youth Cup winners losing 2 Youth Cup matches on the bounce - and he cant see the problem |
With both DP and The Doctor (the previous two winners of the Youth Cup) failing to pick up any points last night and both sitting bottom of their respective groups it was a evening where the Youth Cup media (who attended 23 matches in total) could concentrate and find time to consider the "other" managers with smaller egos.
Managers of the evening are:
1. Stephen Beddows (AC Milan), a manager with no go and who regularly visits the island of Lampadusa to coach football to the refugee children and refuses to spend his evenings with Brabara in favour of working on Youth projects in and around Milan led his side to a brillant 4-0 victory against Donetsk. "I am pleased with the start, we have worked hard to build what I believe to be a decent youth side and I hope we can win the group first and foremost."
2. Tom Parfitt (Levante), so often a manager associated with failure, and failure not just in the league but also in last seasons Youth Cup, Success though is something that all of us can achieve when we work hard and Parfitt has done well to build a strong youth side which was reflected last night in a Moscow. Levante won 4-2 against Daniel Innes CSKA Moscow side, a side who last season reached round 2 after winning a difficult group - Could Levante be this season's Lokomotiv?
3. David Senior (Valencia), A senior man in age to many yes, but also in his tactical knowledge and understanding of the game. When the draw was made and it saw him stuck in a Group of Egos alongside the likes of Reynolds (Dortmund) and DP (Juventus) he said nothing and refused to even consider Valencia progressing in this competition yet last night they won 4-0 away to Everton - a demolition more effective and efficient than how Hillary Clinton will demolish Donald Trump trumpet.
4. Greg Owen (Lokomotiv), what a stunning start for last seasons losing Cup finalist a 4-1 destruction of Beskitas and the Prince of Persia. Besiktas could not cope with the freezing temperatures in Moscow last night and the fact that Mr Putin himself had decided to attend the game was clearly on the Loko players minds and they were sensational. Could Greg go all the way again?
5. Zaid Griffin (Feyenoord), the Dutch side were making their Youth Cup debut last night and had to go to last years semi-finalist Villarreal and Andrew Kelly. Feyenoord fought hard and well and came away with what could turn out to be a highly valuable point. 2-2.
Youth Cup Team of the Week - BEST XI:
League Tables on the relevant page have also been updated.
Youth Cup Preview- Group C
With the 3rd edition of the Youth Cup kicking off today, bigger and better than before. Group C administrator and manager of Aston Villa, Rahul W has a look at his group and provides a preview into the 5 sides looking to fight it out for the top 3 spots in a race for qualification to the next round. With the increased number of teams (60), the next round will be a Round of 32. This means the 8 best 3rd placed teams will qualify for the next round. Most sides have a good shot at going through.
In Group C, Real Madrid are more than likely to go through as table toppers given the quality in their side. It means 4 teams will battle it out for two spots, only one of which is automatic qualification. On paper it would seem that it is down to Villa and PSG to take those 2 spots, however Malaga and Standard Liege could do some damage too. It shall be interesting to see how this group goes.
Prediction- 1st
Predicted team:
Moreira (80)
Tolisso (88)- Canga (82)- Romagnoli (88)- Olaza (82)
Hojbjerg (86)- Tibbling (85)- Milinkovic-Savic (87)
Embolo (86)- Rashford (83)- Iheanacho (83)
Star player: Corentin Tolisso
Alternate options: Tudor (82), Tejero (78), Guedes (78), Grgic (78), Diallo (78), Fosu-Mensah (78), Ros (77), Manojlovic (77), Fletcher (76), Fernandez (76), Tarin (76), Reguilon (76), Gelson (76), Weir (75), Scholl (75), Benko (75), Lirola (75), Llamas (75), Morselli (70)
One of the best youth teams in the draw, Madrid have a solid defence, headlines by the versatile Tolisso and the talented Romagnoli, a strong midfield with the complementary skills of Hojbjerg, Tibbling and Milinkovic-Savic and the fast and strong attack of Embolo, Rashford and Iheanacho. With no clear weak links in this side, sides will have to play out of their skin in order to get points out of this Madrid side. I expect Madrid to wrap up qualification with at least 2 game to go, and they will be hoping to challenge the favourites Juventus and city rivals Atletico for the honours this time round.
Prediction- 2nd
Predicted team:
Bratveit (80)
Hadergjonaj (83)- Hodorogea (82)- Garcia (80)- Walter (84)
Gutierrez (83)- Selnaes (83)- Lopez (83)
Tanase (83)- Ristic (82)
Mandic (82)
Star player: Florin Tanase
Alternate options: Zeneli (82), Boateng (80), Formella (80), Regasel (80), Torreira (78), Turnbull (78), Estupinan (76), Tymon (75), Peric (75), Green (70), Fandi (60)
Villa have a well balanced team, with no real attacking superstars, but with quality all round the park. They've gotten an easier group than last season and should be the favourites for getting 2nd place in the group. However they must be wary of the other teams and the danger they pose.
Prediction- 3rd
Predicted team:
Maignan (80)
Abdat (75)- Ricca (83)- Kimpembe (80)
Bazoer (86)
Grujic (84)- Ntcham (80)
Rabiot (88)
Habran (80)- Augustin (80)- Ongenda (80)
Star player: Adrien Rabiot
Alternate options: Rony Lopes (84) (on loan at Twente), Rossiter (77), D'Almeida (75), Fosu-Henry (70)
For PSG's status as a D1 side, their youth side is heavily imbalanced. Their lack of a right-back means that they will be forced to play with 3 at the back unless they choose to play players out of position (that being said they only have 3 defenders). The only formation that will allow them to play players without being penalised for players out of position is a 3-1-3-3, which in itself is imbalanced. That being said their strength is in midfield where they have the likes of Bazoer, Grujic and Rabiot. I suspect the manager has forgotten Marquinhos is no longer available as a right-sided defender; however given his side's bye in the first round PSG may find the time to add more balance to the side. It is tough to predict where PSG will end up as with some additions to the side they could easily finish 2nd, however with the current side I see them struggling. They also have Rony Lopes out on loan who could add a dimension to their attack.
Prediction- 4th
Predicted team:
Prior (78)
Kakabadze (77)- Gogoua (78)- Diarra (75)- Matarrita (78)
Makarov (76)
Aburjania (78)- Tsintsadze (76)
Horta (85)- Papunashvili (80)- Zahid (80)
Star player: Ricardo Horta
Alternate options: Simsek (80), Edu (78), Zhemaletdinov (77), Labidi (76), Pereira de Sa (75), Abang (75), Rahmani (75), Roussos (75), Pascual (75), Latour (74), Mauzun (73), Polat (73)
Malaga are headlined by Ricardo Horta and will need him to lift up the team and get them some points. They should be able to challenge for 3rd place in the minimum. Horta is their main star and so if he clicks Malaga should be able to get some points.
Prediction- 5th
Predicted team:
Viscovo (70)
Yao (82)- Vanlerberghe (78)- Fiore (80)
Colombatto (73)- Marquet (80)- Gerkens (82)- Field (70)
Milosevic (78)- Diallo (76)
Vidal (78)
Star player: Eloge Yao
Alternate options: Dewaele (76)
Standard Liege are a poor man's version of PSG's youth side, without the 80-rated players. While they do have quality, I don't see how they will play a side with all players playing not out of position (excuse the use of the double negative). Without any additions I can see Liege struggling through the Cup, and the fans must hope the tactically astute James Foster will put up his socks and get some players in to bolster the youth side.
Good luck to all the five teams in this group and to the rest of the teams competing in the Youth Cup!
PS- Put some effort into doing this piece so hope it gets some appreciation :)
In Group C, Real Madrid are more than likely to go through as table toppers given the quality in their side. It means 4 teams will battle it out for two spots, only one of which is automatic qualification. On paper it would seem that it is down to Villa and PSG to take those 2 spots, however Malaga and Standard Liege could do some damage too. It shall be interesting to see how this group goes.
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| REAL MADRID |
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| Roy Keane |
Prediction- 1st
Predicted team:
Moreira (80)
Tolisso (88)- Canga (82)- Romagnoli (88)- Olaza (82)
Hojbjerg (86)- Tibbling (85)- Milinkovic-Savic (87)
Embolo (86)- Rashford (83)- Iheanacho (83)
Star player: Corentin Tolisso
Alternate options: Tudor (82), Tejero (78), Guedes (78), Grgic (78), Diallo (78), Fosu-Mensah (78), Ros (77), Manojlovic (77), Fletcher (76), Fernandez (76), Tarin (76), Reguilon (76), Gelson (76), Weir (75), Scholl (75), Benko (75), Lirola (75), Llamas (75), Morselli (70)
One of the best youth teams in the draw, Madrid have a solid defence, headlines by the versatile Tolisso and the talented Romagnoli, a strong midfield with the complementary skills of Hojbjerg, Tibbling and Milinkovic-Savic and the fast and strong attack of Embolo, Rashford and Iheanacho. With no clear weak links in this side, sides will have to play out of their skin in order to get points out of this Madrid side. I expect Madrid to wrap up qualification with at least 2 game to go, and they will be hoping to challenge the favourites Juventus and city rivals Atletico for the honours this time round.
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| ASTON VILLA |
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| Rahul W |
Prediction- 2nd
Predicted team:
Bratveit (80)
Hadergjonaj (83)- Hodorogea (82)- Garcia (80)- Walter (84)
Gutierrez (83)- Selnaes (83)- Lopez (83)
Tanase (83)- Ristic (82)
Mandic (82)
Star player: Florin Tanase
Alternate options: Zeneli (82), Boateng (80), Formella (80), Regasel (80), Torreira (78), Turnbull (78), Estupinan (76), Tymon (75), Peric (75), Green (70), Fandi (60)
Villa have a well balanced team, with no real attacking superstars, but with quality all round the park. They've gotten an easier group than last season and should be the favourites for getting 2nd place in the group. However they must be wary of the other teams and the danger they pose.
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| PSG |
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| Gary Naylor |
Prediction- 3rd
Maignan (80)
Abdat (75)- Ricca (83)- Kimpembe (80)
Bazoer (86)
Grujic (84)- Ntcham (80)
Rabiot (88)
Habran (80)- Augustin (80)- Ongenda (80)
Star player: Adrien Rabiot
Alternate options: Rony Lopes (84) (on loan at Twente), Rossiter (77), D'Almeida (75), Fosu-Henry (70)
For PSG's status as a D1 side, their youth side is heavily imbalanced. Their lack of a right-back means that they will be forced to play with 3 at the back unless they choose to play players out of position (that being said they only have 3 defenders). The only formation that will allow them to play players without being penalised for players out of position is a 3-1-3-3, which in itself is imbalanced. That being said their strength is in midfield where they have the likes of Bazoer, Grujic and Rabiot. I suspect the manager has forgotten Marquinhos is no longer available as a right-sided defender; however given his side's bye in the first round PSG may find the time to add more balance to the side. It is tough to predict where PSG will end up as with some additions to the side they could easily finish 2nd, however with the current side I see them struggling. They also have Rony Lopes out on loan who could add a dimension to their attack.
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| Greg Billington |
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| MALAGA CF |
Prediction- 4th
Predicted team:
Prior (78)
Kakabadze (77)- Gogoua (78)- Diarra (75)- Matarrita (78)
Makarov (76)
Aburjania (78)- Tsintsadze (76)
Horta (85)- Papunashvili (80)- Zahid (80)
Star player: Ricardo Horta
Alternate options: Simsek (80), Edu (78), Zhemaletdinov (77), Labidi (76), Pereira de Sa (75), Abang (75), Rahmani (75), Roussos (75), Pascual (75), Latour (74), Mauzun (73), Polat (73)
Malaga are headlined by Ricardo Horta and will need him to lift up the team and get them some points. They should be able to challenge for 3rd place in the minimum. Horta is their main star and so if he clicks Malaga should be able to get some points.
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| STANDARD LIEGE |
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| James Foster |
Prediction- 5th
Predicted team:
Viscovo (70)
Yao (82)- Vanlerberghe (78)- Fiore (80)
Colombatto (73)- Marquet (80)- Gerkens (82)- Field (70)
Milosevic (78)- Diallo (76)
Vidal (78)
Star player: Eloge Yao
Alternate options: Dewaele (76)
Standard Liege are a poor man's version of PSG's youth side, without the 80-rated players. While they do have quality, I don't see how they will play a side with all players playing not out of position (excuse the use of the double negative). Without any additions I can see Liege struggling through the Cup, and the fans must hope the tactically astute James Foster will put up his socks and get some players in to bolster the youth side.
Good luck to all the five teams in this group and to the rest of the teams competing in the Youth Cup!
PS- Put some effort into doing this piece so hope it gets some appreciation :)
Spongebob a Damp Squib: Lands keeper in hot water; sinks dream move.
“He was in our grasp until, like a Liverpool goalkeeper flapping at a cross, it was out of our hands."
That was all Razzaque could say about a collapsed deal for goalkeeper Sosha Makani.
Makani, who is Iranian and a self-proclaimed lover of all things American, was sentenced to 6-months re-education for being photographed wearing yellow trousers pants bearing a Spongebob Squarepants motif.
And no, this was not taken from The Onion. It’s a totally legitimate story. He was sentenced by the Iranian Football Federation’s Morality Committee.
Well-meaning, albeit illiterate Dynamo Moscow fans were quick to express their outrage:
Meanwhile, Dynamo Chairman Trump, who appeared in the dark about his team signing an I-Ranian, was quick to show his displeasure at the thought of being remotely close to signing anything from
I-Ran.
Jumpers for Goal Posts
Jumpers for goal posts. Literally. That’s how it all started for Liege over 112 years ago back in the Summer of 1898. (Not as catchy as ‘69 I know, probably why Bryan Adams sang about love instead of Belgian football). Royal Standard de Liege were formed by pupils of College Saint-Servais and were named after Standard Athletic Club of Paris. After bobbing up and down for a few years, they finally regained promotion to the top division in 1921 and have never been relegated since.
JF: ‘Kind of ironic that we find ourselves in Division 5 for a third season. Granted it’s entirely the fault of the previous manager, Frank Luca. I’ve not lost a single league match here, and it’s no coincidence that this is also the team’s longest unbeaten streak. We’ve got a UEFA co-efficient position of 71st. That puts us ahead of Lyon (79), Twente (92) and FK Partizan (97). There’s no reason we should be languishing down here with the likes of Davy at Brugge, or PMW at Anderlecht.’
D de K: ‘If your basing your ‘divine right’ to be in the upper echelons of the divisions, do you think you may have made a mistake using Davy or PMW as examples of teams you’re too big to face? I mean Brugge are ranked 17th, and Anderlecht are 37th?’
JF: ‘Who invited you here? In fact don’t answer that, it may have been me. Look, it boils down to the players we have and the manager’s skill level. I’ve never lost a league game. They’ve both lost loads. In fact pretty much all the managers here have lost loads. I’m the only one who hasn’t. I’m the greatest. I might not have won anything yet, like Gursimran or Roy Keane, or even Beddows, actually scratch Beddows… Kareem Abdul-Jabbar once said ‘You can’t win until you learn how to lose’, and if that’s true, by god, Beddows is gonna win big one day!’
D de K: ‘Well you’re certainly right about Beddows at least. Anyway, shall we get back to talking about your team instead of your opponents? How do you feel your first match of the new season went?’
JF: ‘As you know this will be my first full season here, and as such it’s the first time we’ve had a proper pre-season. The new players have adapted extremely well to my methods and techniques, you only have to look at the performances of Lang, Djourou and Rochina against Rubin Kazan. All 3 played tremendously and I’m delighted that was acknowledged with their presence in the Division 5 TOTW.’
D de K: ‘You mention that the new players have adapted well, how about the few remaining existing playing staff? It’s well known that you carried out a North Korea style purge of the previous regimes players when you arrived. It’s rumoured that you even had Diogo Rochinha killed by anti-aircraft gun?’
JF: ‘Of course I did, Diogo Rochinha fell asleep during a team meeting, and if Our Dearest Leader has taught me anything it’s that you need to be cruel to be kind. Look how well his DPRK team did, they reached the final of the world Cup! In terms of transfers, I may have been a little hasty to be honest. It’s not often I make mistakes but I’m man enough to admit that I carried out the changes a little too quickly. It unsettled a couple of the existing players I wanted to keep, and that was reflected in their performance. Bruno was sent off in the 46thminute and Sels struggled to read the movements of his new defence resulting in a below par performance. We’ve reviewed the match videos however and had additional defensive drills, as you can see today.’
A role model... Apparently...
D de K: ‘Have you made any changes to the backroom team whilst you’ve been here?’
JF: ‘Well when Frank left, I wanted a clean slate. It was obvious that he was only part of the problem so his team had to go with him. I’ve brought in a couple of Liege legends so I can focus more on strategy and transfers, they focus mainly on the day to day running of the training complex and sessions. Previous captain Eric Gerets has come on board as my assistant. He knows the club inside out, and has a wealth of experience working for some of Europe’s top sides. I’ve also brought in Gilbert Bodart as Head of Finance and with 470 appearances for the side he’s an invaluable team member.’
D de K: ‘Whilst I agree wholeheartedly that Gerets will prove to be a fantastic addition, do you have any concerns around Bodart’s previous criminal activities?’
JF: ‘Well, I mean who hasn’t been involved in a little bet here or there, or maybe a little money counterfeiting. Next you’ll be telling me that complicity to robbery is a real offence. Anyway, he told me since his prison sentence he’s a reformed man and that’s enough for me.’
Gerets loves putting things in his mouth
New Head of Finance
D de K: ‘Who am I to argue with a man of your obvious superior intellect James…. How do you feel your new players have performed since joining the club, you’ve brought in a lot of players at once so surely one or two of them must be struggling?’
JF: ‘Dick, we may not always see eye to eye but I’ll level with you, a couple of the players were a bit of a punt and may be moved on after their transfer bans are up. Will Grigg was expected to come in and perform. I think he may be a little burnt out though, at least that’s what I think the fans keep chanting at me anyway? Lewis Dunk is a great prospect but I think we may try and use him in exchange for another player. The same with Wagner, Barrios, and Alexis. All 3 can slot straight into a division 4 or 5 first team but they don’t match my philosophy unfortunately. We may see Cacciatore and Barton leave aswell for the same reason.’
D de K: ‘You mention Lewis Dunk, there must already be some potential suitors for him?’
JF: ‘It’s funny you should say that, his agent keep telling me that Juventus, Bayern and AC Milan are all interested so we may reach out to them in the hope that we can tie up some sort of deal.’
D de K: ‘Will you be actively looking to sell the others?’
JF: ‘I’ll happily deal with anyone to move these guys on. Even if that means a 2 for 1, 3 for 1, 3 for 2, 4 for 1, 4 for 2, you get the idea!’
D de K: ‘Do you have any players who you think will be key moving forward through the season?;
JF: ‘I think most managers have a couple of standout players who will usually be in the starting eleven, and I’m no different, although that’s not to say they’ll play every match. Djourou in defence is our captain and my voice on the pitch. He’s a rock in defence and together with Lang and Sels should help keep out the goals, something the team suffered from before I came. Then we’ve got Bruno, granted he’s suffered from a discipline issue in the first game, but when his bans up he’ll be back in the side, he’s going to be an important player for us in the seasons to come. Finally, up front we’ve got Ruben Rochina. He might not be the glamourous striker other teams have got but he’s tall, quick and has an eye for goal. Now, can you sod off distracting me, Leckie has set up a BBQ in the centre circle, bloody Aussie… always disrupting training…’
D de K: ‘Thanks for your time James. Can I have a burger?’
Dick de Cock of Het Laatste Nieuws was interviewing James ‘The Brain’ Foster at Liege’s open training session this morning.
Leverkusen start with a win
Bayer Leverkusen Manager Noisy was delighted with the teams opening performance in Division 1 this weekend.
After being tipped in the pre-season predictions for relegation in last spot Noisy has fired up the team to go out and prove the doubters wrong.
Leverkusen had a brilliant pre-season and the lads are in good physical shape for the battle ahead, Noisy has set the target of a Top 10 Finish whilst many will laugh it off, Noisy is confident in the players he has to pull it off.
Recent rises in prospects such as Brandt to 87, Wendell to 89 and Boufal and Mendy to 88 has boosted the side with all involved in the matchday squads.
The biggest change for us personally though was Calhanoglu's Position Change meaning he can now play in the centre of midfield a position we have been weak at.
Calhanoglu was indeed deployed in CM this weekend and it paid off as he scored the winning goal in the Vicente Calderon to beat Doctor's Atletico 1-0.
He would have got MOTM if it wasn't for Lenos heroics in goal to keep a clean sheet.
The club has knocked various bids back in the last few weeks for its key players as we believe its vital to keep the backbone in place.
Hello Hellas
Last night a phote emerged that seemingly shows Levante manager Tom Parfitt visiting a rival club. The Levante boss was known to have visited Italy last week, he was there as a guest at his sister’s wedding in Lake Garda. The picture however seem to show that perhaps there was an ulterior motive to his visit.
The rumor mill is sure to go into overdrive following the release of the picture, but officials from both Levante and Hellas Verona declined to comment when approached. Verona manager Andre Libras - Boas could not be reached for comment, but it is hoped that he will respond in due course.
Parfitt however said that Verona is a wonderful city, and a place that he would like to spend more time. Is the man just mischief making, or is there more to it? At the moment he seems happy in Spain, and is attempting to build a side for the future, but is that side for the future one that he will be guiding, or is the very basic Italian he has picked up courtesy of his Duolingo app more than just a coincidence?
New Season, New Start
Following last nights win over 10 man Independiente at the Ciudad de Valencia, Levante boss Tom Parfitt took time out to speak to Sky Sports Spanish football correspondent, Kate Abdo.
KA - Tom, there was talk that having finished bottom last season, you shouldnt be in charge at Levante now. How do you respond to that criticism?
TP - Kate, you lovely little thing you, we are here to talk about the here and now, not the past. In the here and now, we have won our opening game of the season 3 - 1, and had a very solid pre season too.
KA - You haven’t brought in many players during the off season. Given that the side did finish bottom, do you not think a few more additions would have been wise?
TP - You look amazing tonight Kate, maybe we could discuss this further over dinner? Maybe Netflix & chill?
KA - maybe later Tom, but what about your recruitment for this season?
TP - Well yes, it has been a bit slow, but we got the majority of our business done towards the end of last season. Mcgeady and Ramis came in. Eto’o, Gillardino, Szalai, Srnic, N’Doye and Kodjia all came before last season ended. Zapata too, so in all honesty we were ahead of the game for once. When Damaio became available though, we couldnt say no.
KA - Yes, Leandro is a great signing for your club. How did you manage to convince him to sign?
TP - Well it is never easy to get a player of that stature to drop down the leagues, but when I talked to him and told him what we were looking to do, he was on board very quickly. Leverkusen were great in their part of the deal too. Noisy was fantastic with his communication and we knew where we stood.
KA - Leandro Damaio coming in makes you a bit top heavy on strikers now does it not?
TP - Well spotted Kate, and I think that you will see two or three leaving at some point. I know in my head who I will be trying to move on, but I wouldnt expect too many immidiate exits.
KA - Can we expect to see any more new arrivals?
TP - What, me and you creating our own new arrival you mean? That’d be cool. We could get some practice in now if you like?
KA - Practice is later, I mean new arrivals to the Levante playing staff.
TP - I’d like to get a goalkeeper in for sure. I am hoping to talk to a club later in the week about one, but whether we can arrange a deal or notr remains to be seen. Other than that, we have made bods for a couple of midfielders, although we haven’t heard back from their respective clubs. If they dont come off though, I wouldnt expect amything else. I certainly dont have any other targets in mind at this moment.
KA - Well thank you for taking the time out to speak to me, it has been wonderful.
TP - Thank you Kate, and now about that dinner and desert…..
SM Top 100 Season 3 Round Up - Gameday 1
Here follows an account of the activities and results from SM Top 100 Gameday 1 as told by impartial Italian Journalist, Gino Kinnearo and his friends
As impartial judge Gino sat and presented the show live from the San Siro he had three top Italian journalists in each Division watching tonight events unfold on SM Top 100 TV goal view which showed the main action live of every game simultaneously.
DIVISION ONE:
Reporters: Federica Figa, Benedetto Mangiapane and Francesco Fragola
Federica is a great fan of Mister Malcolm as she wanted to be a palaeontologist in her younger years and loves older men but she was horrified when DP’s Juventus nearly sent the dinosaurs to extinction in an emphatic 3-0 win tonight in a match between what were Italy’s top two sides.
Broon ate too many Turkish delights as his saw his side drop points from a winning position as the favourites for the drop, Liverpool, came from two down to get a point 2-2… Francesco commenting that it left a bitter sweet taste in his mouth as he’d placed 500 euros on Fener when 2-0 up at 5/1…
Poor Fred Dodger who should have been sacked quite frankly last season was destroyed by Barcelona and Scott Mckenzie who elected to site in his Nou Camp throne as opposed to alongside his coaching staff pitchside. And what of poor Lee Reynolds, apparently the Dortmund manager is now 40 (more like 70) and on his return to SM Top 100 Div 1 he was utterly destroyed by everyone’s favourite manager Roy Keane, whose Real Madrid side toyed with little Dortmund who looked more out of their depth than Louis Tomlinson did at Old Trafford. FRANKBET now make Dorymund 1/10000 favs to go down.
DIVISION TWO:
Reporters: Giacomo Gondola, Giuseppe Gelato and Vanessa Volpe
Where else can we begin but at the San Siro, Beddows who has been absent from the touchline due to World Cup duties was delighted to be back in Milan and his side produced a masterful performance to destroy Sevilla 1-0. Who scored… well obviously it was Mario Balotelli, the Italian international who recently signed a new 5 year contract was delighted with 3 points and made no excuses for his sides aggressive approach to the game.
Neil Frankland’s Roma were run away winners as well with a 3-0 against pre-season title favourties Inter Milan, Brian Clough had no answers to Franklands dominant attacking football which was comparable only to the Battle of Balaclava when the English stood no chance against the well positioned Russian artillery.
CSKA Moscow and Daniel Innes must surely still be on holiday as they allowed Monchengladbach walk all over them 5-1… Greg Owen and David Inglis (Loko and Everton) also are facing relegation battles this season after opening day defeats.
DIVISION THREE:
Reporters: Alessandra Pesca, Daniela Mucca, Renata Ronaldo
Both Kun al and Francesco Signorile (Gala and Cruzeiro) have shot stragiht to the top of the bookies odds for the sack race with both now 1/90 joint favourties as both sides rolled over to Genoa and Aston Villa with Frank Hirst and Rahul delighted to have picked up 3 points in their quest for maximum 114 points come game 38. Although Daniela Mucca still thinks Rahul wont have the bottle to achieve top 3 and as for Frank well if he finishes top 3 we will all no why!
Josh Mcmillan clearly cant cope with life in France as his side could only manage a 1-1 draw in a local derby with Golden Bears Monaco.
The big surprise of the evening came in Turkey when relegated manager Nathan Prince (formerly of Galatasaray) took charge of Besiktas for the first time against pre-season favs Southampton and Besiktas actually won a game - yes Prince actually hit the right notes and sang the right tune and got 3 points our of his players - Is Mike Scallotti due to be sacked - as he doesnt read the blog we are unlikely to find out any time soon.
DIVISION FOUR:
Reporters: Benito Crema, Davide Culo, Federico Faccia di Merda
Davide was most impressed by Mark Hewitt and David Marsden who both lead the table early doors but due to SM not allowing us to view the results collectively we cant say who beat who without excessive clicking - all Davide had to say was he would willingly marry Federico Faccia di Merda if either Hamburg or Montpeiller win promotion this season.
Michael Hudson (The crazy Kangaroo) and Sean Cass played out the most boring game in SM Top 100 history with a 0-0 draw, not the inspiring form that the fans would expect of title contenders.
Marco of the Angels (Sampdoria) and Andrew Kelly (Villarreal) both lost on the opening day as they both stand on the edge of destruction and the dreaded fall into that mental world that is wonderland, otherswise known as the relegation zone.
DIVISION FIVE:
Reporters: Gino Figlo di Kinnearo, Pascal Puttana, Ivan Pomodoro
Gino Figlio di Kinnearo was in Holland to witness Ryan Chisholm actually win a game, 4-3 in Twente. Ryan Chisholm who was blamed (as Italy’s assistant manager) as the reason Italy didnt win the world cup and subsequently sacked was delighted to actually win a game with a hat-trick from Van Wolfswnklel.
Tom Pariff (Levante) James Foster (Liege) and PMW (Anderletcht) were all delighted to win comfortably on day 1 as they each seek to climb on top of each other in the assault for Division 4.
Mark Stewart (Hertha) and Gav Harmer (Werder) will both be unhappy with Day One results with Bremen fans already protesting that Harmer as a relegation specialist was the wrong appointment for the German side in the first place. It is expected he will be replaced by the end of the week.
Juventus Ready
La Gazzetta dello Sport & Sky Italia reporter Federica Masolin today caught up with 'Old Lady' gaffer DP ahead of the start of Top 100's season 3 campaign. The two were spotted together frequently at the recent Monaco F1 Grand Prix where DP has spent his post season.
Federica; Hello Dan, fancy seeing you here.
DP; It's been a while.
Federica; Too long...
DP; Let's get this over with & onto more important matters.
Federica; I'm game if you are. So Juve, as ever, always busy in the market looking to improve upon the squad, is that something always at the forefront of your mind?
DP; I think it's important to always keep things fresh & it's vital to always try & improve your squad. Look at the likes of Milan, stubborn Beddows letting things rot & allowing a weird relationship with players like Balotelli to fester & poison the squad. Where did that get them?
Federica; It appeared to get them an open top bus parade around Milan for a week straight!
DP; That's Milan for you. Celebrating relegation, truly inspiring that.
Federica; Disappointing that somehow this blundering bigot Beddows somehow managed to also get head coach role of our glorious Azzuri national team as well, which leads me to ask about the rumoured approach to appoint yourself or Malcolm in Florence as the new national team coach?
DP; I've been approached, this is true, but I'm not interested in the role currently however I believes there's been a few Beddows bungs again to ensure he keeps the role.
Federica; Do you think Malcolm would be better suited for the position then?
DP; Whatever position you like Federica, I like.
Federica; Sorry, Malcolm as Azzuri national team coach, should he get the role?
DP; Oh of course, it'd be great to see an end to this love affair between Beddows & Balotelli but that won't happen anytime soon. Bungs top to bottom, Beddows to Berlusconi, Berlusconi to the mafia & here we are. Boring Beddows for another 2 decades.
Federica; Miserable isn't it.
DP; I'll do my best to cheer you up doll, don't you worry!
Federica; Back to the club football... You've brought in the likes of Šime Vrsaljko, Raphaël Guerreiro & Juan Cuadrado in defensive areas. There much discussion that Juventus had the best strength in depth in defence before these deals, what do you think the belief is now?
DP; I'm sure there's some jealously about, who wouldn't be when you look at the quality of talent we have at our disposal.
Federica; Didn't do you many favours in the league campaign last season though did it? Finishing 4th wasn't exactly ideal?
DP; Don't beat around the bush do you Federica, not when it comes to football at least. Well no it wasn't the ideal result however we did have the best defensive record. The rest will come in time.
Federica; Perhaps the acquisitions of Batshuayi & Gabriel Barbosa can make a difference in killing off oppositions this season then? Juve seemed to often struggle to win games by big margins in Season 2?
DP; This is true. The new D&G on the scene have only had half a season playing within the same team as one another so I believe they'll be on point this season to make a difference whilst Batshuayi & Gabigol offer great depth to the forward line.
Federica; I think you should donate one of these new D&G handbags for me, I'm more than happy to advertise the product for you. Elsewhere are Juventus done in the market for Season 3 now?
DP; I imagine we're prepared for the time being. We've been impressed with the progress from the likes of Leroy, Kingsley, Daniele & Jonathan after the Youth Cup victory last season & they will be playing a part in more first team football this season.
Federica; A great achievement from the youth at Juve last season indeed, do you have a preferred lineup for this season? There's been a lot of speculation in Turin & furthermore Italy of late in the guesses as to the first 11 this season, can you comment on some of the guesswork?
DP; I've seen some of the speculation, it's hard not to but I won't comment much on it, I only say that any manager that does not try to adapt his tactics to his opposition is not a manager for modern football.
Federica; A fair comment. Is it true that you will be adapting a 3-5-2 this season? Perhaps the D&G partnership can flourish in this setup?
DP; You'll have to wait & see. I'm keen to see us score more than we did last season so there may be room to manoeuvre in around in order to benefit D&G. Again, we shall see.
Federica; You recently commented in a pre-season 3 preview that achieving a top 4 finish again would be the aim for the season, was that true?
DP; The division is tougher than ever & our opponents are forever strengthening on the most part & with the likes of our underachieving neighbours Milan & Internazionale being relegated the competition has just become much tougher. I'd take a top 4 finish now but it will be a much harder campaign than before.
Federica; I think we shall wrap things up there for now, I wouldn't want to keep you too long before tonights game here in Florence.
DP; I'm sure you can keep me for as much time as you'd like after tonights game, until then however it's ciao for now.
Federica; I look forward to it.
FRANKBET Odds - Season 3 - DIVISION 2
Short and sweet odds for Division Two tonight (apologies but no time to be as in-depth as normal)
Internazionale 1/6
Sevilla 1/2
Tottenham Hotspur 4/1
Spartak Moscow 8/1
Everton 11/1
VFL Wolfsburg 12/1
Monchengladbach 16/1
AC Milan 16/1
AS Roma 16/1
Ajax 22/1
Newcastle United 33/1
Lokomotiv Moscow 40/1
Sporting 42/1
Lyon 54/1
Benfica 66/1
Basel 100/1
Zenit 250/1
Shakthar 350/1
Boca Juniors 5000/1
CSKA Moscow 5001/1
Dortmund Season 2 and A Bit About Me
The dust has finally settled on a return to the dizzy heights of Division One in the Top 100 world. Clinching the title on the final day was not what we had in mind, the nail biting, the nervousness and then finally the ecstasy of seeing off a fantastic challenge from Rob Ryan’s Napoli.
I took over a Dortmund side at the tail end of Season 1 and could not save them from relegation after younger Broon had left the team in turmoil with under achieving, unfit and players lacking confidence. The side needed guidance and a change of direction, plus changes to personnel ahead of a season with one aim to return to Division 1. Most deals were done before the end of season 1 with Domenico Berardi, Benedikt Howedes, and Mario Fernandes all arriving, deals for Emre Can and David Alaba were done during season 2 both players have now left for pastures new.
The season start went superbly well with Dortmund going 11 games unbeaten, with 10 wins and 1 draw before being defeated by Schalke 2-1 and then by Roma. Schalke had equally started the season in impressive form with Sameer doing a sterling job in revamping the team and their fortunes. Early exits in the Cup and Shield to Southampton and Arsenal showed the squad lacked a bit of strength, but in the youth cup an unexperienced bunch were doing well in the group stages and qualified in 2nd spot behind Manchester United before Atletico Madrid brought an abrupt end in the knock stages beating us 4-1.
Like any other sides Dortmund suffered their set-backs but always bounced back in impressive style like any good side, but some periods of real patchy form was hitting their title charge. Schalke who were overturned 3-0 in perhaps their best performance of the season were also dogged by indifferent form and it was the charge of Rob Ryan’s Napoli scoring goals for fun and winning games with regularity.
Dortmund had also entered the regional cup and had seen off all comers before meeting Bayern in an expected two legged final. Dortmund lost the home leg 2-1 and drew 1-1 in the return away leg. Despite running Bayern close in an even two legged final they could not come back after the home leg defeat.
With 2 games to play the gap had got down to 1 point between ourselves and Napoli, with the big head to head match at Signal Iduna Park. Napoli went into a 2 goal lead and the title dream looked in jeopardy but goals from Berardi and sub Batshuayi secured a precious point and kept us top with Monchengladbach away to play in the last game.
Napoli faced Boca at home in their last game with 3 points a certainty and they comfortable ran out 3-0 winners. Dortmund meanwhile went ahead early through Luca Modric but a goal from Mandzukic close to half time brought the hosts level and Napoli were top with 45 minutes to play. As the second half drifted the mid-point Kevin Kampl scored a precious goal and 10 minutes later Neven Subtoic put the icing on the cake and more breathing space. Dortmund held on for a 3-1 win and the title was theirs, the players down on their feet and manager Lee Reynolds had pulled off what he, the fans, the board and the players wanted a return to Division One football.
There were many stars in this campaign, Carlos Vela with 20 goals, Luca Modric with 16 assists, Neven Subotic with his steady form at the back, Arda Turan with 15 goals and Yaya Toure with his explosive midfield presence. Here are my top 3
3- Ardan Turan. Great season as part of a front 3 mostly on the left but sometimes on the right. With 15 goals and 8 assists a fantastic return.
2- Carlos Vela. 20 goals, 7 assists and 9 MOM unlucky to miss out. His goals vital especially as being the main hit man.
1-Luca Modric. Great driving force from Midfield playing in all bar 1 game. 8 goals and 16 assists show how much of a vital part of this team he is. Boss Reynolds “called him the first name on the team sheet”.
The last week or so has seen a surge in the transfer market for boss Reynolds. Dubbed “no deals Reynolds” by Beddows this is certainly far from the truth.
Marco Reus from Barcelona in exchange for David Alaba
Jesper Cillesen and Davie Selke both move from Juventus in exchange for Michy Batshuayi
Matthias Ginter moves from Tottenham in exchange for Kevin Kampl
Jonas Hector arrives from Cologne in exchange for Roman Eremenko and Robert Bauer
Loureiro Allan and Josip Brekalo arrive from Napoli in exchange for Arda Turan
Alexi Vidal and Patrick Pflucke arrive from Valencia in exchange for Yaya Toure
John Terry and Roman Weidenfeller completed moves to Hertha and Besiktas respectively.
Expectations for the new campaign are to qualify for an SMFA competition, go further in the youth cup and win the regional cup.
And finally about me…….
Born and bred in Peterborough I live here with my fiancée Sarah and my 8 year old Darcy. I have just turned 40 and I have been with my partner for 15 years now. I work locally for a finance company as a credit controller.
My little girl Darcy has cerebral palsy albeit in a mild form, she suffers with muscle stiffness which results in regular physio/exercises at home and school, regular hospital appointments and she had a hip operation last September. She can walk but suffers with tiredness and falling so we have to have a wheelchair. She is a touch cookie and yes it is hard but life must go on and one thing it has not affected, is her ability to learn and do well at school.
I am a big Peterborough United fan and season ticket holder supporting the club since around 1989. I tend to only do home games these days unless a big one comes along but in the past have done a number of away fixtures too. Other interests include other sports such as cricket, snooker, pool and darts, plus music. My favorite bands are Ocean Colour Scene, Oasis, Madness, Beatles and Stereophonics.
In the last 18 months I have took up running rather playing football which I did 3-4 times a week in my younger days. I completed the Great Eastern half marathon, the half mucker Rat Race at Burghley House Stamford and a local 10km Insane Terrain all last year. Not so daring this year my aim is to complete the Great Eastern half marathon again and try and beat my time of just under 1hr 50 mins.
Well that's me and ciao for now and good luck to all ahead of season 3 in Top 100.
FRANKBET Odds - Season 3 - DIVISION 3
Onwards we go with the FRANKBET pre-season odds and today we join Division 3, who will succeed in beating The Top 100 President? Who will suffer the embarrassment of being relegated down to the doldrums of Division 4?
Marseille 2/1
Athletic Club 3/1
Southampton 5/2
Genoa 9/1
Sunderland 12/1
SC Internacional 14/1
Galatasaray 21/1
Udinese 21/1
Leicester City 33/1
AS Monaco 33/1
Cruzeiro 40/1
Aston Villa 50/1
PSV 75/1
Beskitas 88/1
Swansea 125/1
Crystal Palace 250/1
Hoffenheim 250/1
Bordeaux 300/1
AS Saint Etienne 500/1
Stoke City 6000/1
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| "Are you mad?" Linder asked Frankbet upon seeing the odds to which they replied "Not as mad as you clearly..." |
Golden Bear is a manager who nearly sleep walked himself to a double relegation last season such was his dedication to stocking up on honey as opposed to managing Monaco. Monaco might be a rich boys playground and when the SMT100 authorities gave him an ultimatum, save Monaco or go to Zagreb Golden Bear actually realised that honey stocks and cash stocks in Zagreb do not match those of his current Royal patron in Monaco and as such recovery followed. The question is can Golden Bear actually concentrate for a whole season to challenge for the play offs? FRANKBET thinks not and that the lure of honey will hold swap and dent Monaco's hopes.
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| Monaco manager in a former role in Gold 279 |
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| Downinho - specialist at the play-offs |
And what of our great leader, Frank Hirst and Genoa? What can we expect of him? A manager who is well known for manipulating the gameworld for his own gains and a manager who actually picks the referees for each tie - surely he is destined to make the play-offs at least? It is as certain as Liverpool to still be trohpyless in real life this time next year.
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| Frank Hirst - He does what he wants |
FRANKBET are highly interested to see how some managers perform next season in this Division, in particular the rivalry between Turkish sides Galatasaray and Besiktas who both under the tutelage of new managers, Mr Kun Al and Mr Prince should be quite spicy.
Will Rahul and Aston Villa be able to make the play-offs again - FRANKBET think it will be more of a relegation fight that a play-off party!
As for the rest the odds are there, if you wish to spend your pennies nip down to your nearest FRANKBET store today.
THE THURSDAY BLOG - Vol 3 No 1
Hey guys and welcome to a new season of Thursday Blog’s. As the more intelligent of you will realise, my volume’s go by season in the Top100 and thus Season 3 brings Volume 3. For those who are less intelligent, I have just explained it and apart from drawing a picture with lots of pretty arrows, there is not much else I can do. We can work on it.
For Volume 3 it is going to be mainly the same kind of format but where as before I would mention a thing or two about soccer manager outwith my club in the Top 100, I will now devote a section to it. So we will have my real life stuff, a SM section mainly about the Top100 as a whole and then the goings on at my club Liverpool.
So, what has been happening at home since my last blog? Well, to be honest, I only have one word that can describe it but I have to it say three times. Stress, stress, stress and then some. I have mentioned before how my wife, Alison and my eldest daughter, Elise get on like cat and dog but usually their fall out lasts maybe a day at most with yours truly stuck in the middle and always being pressured to take sides. Another fall out happened and all, as always, over something trivial that became a molehill into mountain scenario. It started with Elise leaving her phone at the stables. I am telling you, take all the phones out of this house and production will be at a standstill. It would just be five people standing, going round in small circles not knowing what to do. I have to include myself in this as I would be lost without my phone. If I said that we all have an IPhone 6s plus it shows how important they are. No older versions of phones allowed in this house. Back to the story, and Elise has left her phone at the stables. Now, classic Elise is asking someone else to do things for her and especially her younger sister Janene. Janene always says yes though so she only has herself to blame. Anyway, sitting having our dinner and Janene says she has agreed to go to the stables and get Elise’s phone. Ok, and Elise is obviously going with her. No? that’s right. Elise says she is too tired. Wtf? Janene then confesses to us that she is really just wanting a shower and bed. On pulling up Elise on this, she says she doesn’t have much fuel and Janene is going but backs down a bit and says she is going with her. To cut a long story short, Alison says no chance and Elise was expecting someone to go for us while she sat on her fat ass. This started the argument. Cue Gordon heading for bed. I refuse to listen to them but I could hear most of it from upstairs. Don’t know everything that was said but I did hear Elise call Alison a psychopath!! Oops, that is the fall out. I have to head back downstairs to try and keep the peace but this is too far gone.
Elise pleads her case and that she would have went if she had fuel in the car. I offer her a tenner to go get some fuel but she refuses and just goes anyway. Well, that was it. This fall out lasted 4 days and I was once again in the middle, stressing. I am 53yo and I want just two things in life now. Quietness and SM. One out of two ain’t bad as Meat Loaf once nearly sang. Anyway, I thought I had made the breakthrough on the Friday when they both apologised to each other for things they said but they still were not talking. Then on the Saturday when Alison came to bed, she started moaning about Elise. I got caught making a ‘not again’ face and she asked what the face was for. I just said I was fed up hearing about it and that was her in a mood with me now. It must have worked though coz the next night they were all nice again. Thank fuck for that, well until the next time.
After being so stressed, and with today being my day off, I am having a lazy day and staying in bed until I have to get up. That time will be half one for a quick tidy up before a SKY engineer comes out to fix our SKY. We are not getting a signal for any channel at all apart from the council TV ones. It is quite obviously the dish that is fucked. It is an old dish now so probably something to do with that. I hope it is just age. I know that we swapped the kids house duties around and Janene now has the kitchen to do but when I said you put ALL the dishes in the dishwasher………..
Alison is back at work after her time off with her stomach troubles that seen her spending some days in hospital. She is doing a phased return, so they call it, and last week was in until 1pm and this week it is 2pm and so on until she is back in for the full day. I am just glad she is back as she was off for quite a while. It is so hard to tell how sore she is as she is queen of the drama queens. To make it worse she is even a drama queen when someone else is ill. I have seen her phone NHS24 when Janene has only had a sore throat. Of course when she phones NHS24, by the end of the call the sore throat has all the implications of the Bubonic plague. So when Alison tells me something I have to strip away the exaggerations and finally end up with the real happening.
No TV has meant no football for me but I haven’t missed it. I didn’t even know Scotland had played Italy until 2 days after the game. The European Championships are coming up though and I will watch as much as my shifts at work allows. Every British team are there except good old Scotland, who enjoyed one of their glorious failures once again. There is always one stupid result that lets them down and this time it was the 1-0 defeat in Georgia. If they had won that then they would be in France instead of the Poles I think but we wouldn’t want to deny the Euros Lewandowski so we decided not to qualify. We will be there next time as long as we avoid Georgia, California and North Dakota in the qualifiers.
As I said, I have decided to expand the Soccer Manager, the game, section to talk more about the Top 100 as a game world. As many have said before, this game world has everything. Even the recognition it gets from the guys that run the game is something to be proud of. I don’t think Frank could have imagined how amazing this world has turned out to be. If I am right, he only decided to start this one up because he believed there was a bit of cheating going on in Gold Championship 274, where we had managed to fill the English leagues, although he will correct me if that’s wrong. The game world has already been through a couple of scares. The introduction of the new UI seen a few, including myself, quit the game in protest but a quick option of using the od interface seen most return. There was also the scare of an argument involving Frank and possibly James McKenzie, don’t shoot me if that’s wrong, which seen Frank threaten to close the world down. Thankfully it blew over and the world has gone from strength to strength.
I have never seen a newsfeed so busy with discussions about just about anything going on. The banter is superb and there are so many characters in the game that the laughs are never ending. Of course, you still get an argument or two about things like daft transfer offers or people going in a huff because someone else got a player they wanted but it’s all part of what makes the world so good.
The blog is another awesome part of the world. I love that so many managers are trying to get involved in the blog. There are managers who, before, would not even have tried to do an article but have done something. Every single article on here is appreciated and is of interest to everyone. The response to my Division 1 preview was amazing. I can’t thank everyone enough for their kind comments and I also have to thank all the other Division 1 managers for responding to my PM’s asking for their input. I plan to do the preview every season as I think it builds up a bit of excitement for it starting. Season 3 starts on Sunday and it just can’t come quick enough. The Youth Cup and the World Club Championship is just another feature that makes this world so good and then there is TOP100TV. Anyone that says they are in a better gameworld have either never played in this one or is a liar. As for the season coming up, I think its going to be fiercely contested in all 5 divisions. Everyone expects to do well but it is, of course, not possible for that to happen. t was like when I was doing my preview and working out where I think everyone would finish. Every manager fancies their chances of a top ten finish but I am afraid only 50% of them will be correct and 50% will be disappointed. I know I will be happy if I can finish higher up than last season, even by just one place but I do wonder if I have given some managers an incentive by predicting relegation for them and that it comes back to bite me in the bum. Time will tell I suppose but I am sure everyone is ready and raring to go.
At Anfield, I thought we were all ready to go. The new players El Shaarawy and Moutinho have done well in training and are looking keen to get started. We have had 2 pre season friendlies so far, both at Anfield, and have suffered two defeats without scoring a goal. My policy in pre season friendlies is always to start with what should be my cup side and then bring in a couple of first team guys each game. The 3-0 defeat to Galatasaray was not a good performance at all by the reserves but more worringly was the fact that Szczesny still looks lacking in confidence. Last night I brought Rafael and Gameiro into the side and although the performance improved we still lost 0-1 to Hoffenheim. The good part though was that Szczesny saved a penalty and hopefully that will give him a boost. Tonight we are playing host to West Ham United and I have decided that, due to the lack of goals, Lacazette will play up front with Gameiro and also El Shaarawy will play on the left on the left hand side. Surely this will get us a goal or two although we will probably end up losing 8-7.
On the transfer front, nothing is happening of interest. A couple of youngsters have arrived for the Youth Cup and that’s about it. We are attempting to bring in Drogba from Aston Villa as I think he could boost our cup team but we will certainly not pay more than a 38yo is worth.
We open against Fenerbahce at Anfield and since they are tipped for relegation then I have to expect that we will get 3 points but my teams are generally slow starters so if we don’t get 3 points then its not a disaster. We then have a trip to face Real Madrid and although we won 2-0 there last season, any point is a bonus for us and a bitter blow for Roy and his boys. Overall we are looking forward to a season where we can show that we are a better team than 16th place and I know we can do it. If Lacazette can find his best form and form a good partnership with Gameiro then we are on the right road. At the back we have had problems and I think it all stems from Szczesny’s low morale.
Nobody loves me
I tried to sell him during the close season but there were no real suitable offers. I would have done a straight swap for another 90 rated keeper as long as the guy wasn’t 110yo but there was nothing doing. Anyway we are going with Szczesny for the season now and hopefully he can improve. He has Mascherano and Bender as the centre backs so they should be able to protect him. Right back is probably a position I would like to upgrade but, again, no one was really prepared to let anyone go. Luis will hold the left back place so, really, we aren’t that bad off. Midfield is looking reasonably strong with Isco, Khedira, Moutinho, Feghouli and El Shaarawy able to fill the places and up front Lacazette and Gameiro will be the first choice strikers with El Shaarawy able to convert to striker if required. There are better teams than us and there are worse teams than us but if we can play to our strengths then I am confident we will do ok. I have a SIMS in place but it is not too difficult to achieve. Although the bottom two get sacked, I have stipulated that if I get relegated then I will resign or if I manage to stay up but don’t beat last seasons total of 38 points, I will also resign. If I survive those stipulations then I will set higher ones the following season depending on my final league placing and points total for this season. I think this is a good idea and adds a bit more realism into the world which, lets face it, is what we are trying to do here. My next decision would be if we finished in the top 10 and qualified for a European place. Do I buy Gold to be able to compete in Europe or do I not? From other game worlds I have learned that if you do not have gold then you have no chance in Euro competitions. Although it shouldn’t be a factor, I don’t want to have 4-0 and 5-1 defeats on the schedule from games that you have no control over. I think it will all come down to how I have adapted to the new UI when it finally is forced upon us.
Anyway I think I have babbled on enough for today. The SKY engineer is here and is moving the dish and rewiring all the boxes so I have no idea how long that is going to take. More importantly, the countdown to the new season continues and I just want to wish everyone good luck for the season and may the best team come out on top which I think will be Bayern Munich.
It’s time to go so thanks for reading today and in 7-10 days time, Fannie Licker will be back with another interview. Who will it be this time? Well I know coz I had my ear right up at Fannie when she whispered it. The manager doesn’t know yet but I will send him a PM tonight and we can get the ball rolling.
So thanks once again and I will be back with the next Thursday blog in a fortnight.
Ciao
Dynamo Donald Trump on Taking Putin's D in Moscow
With an average age of 27 and a considerably lower IQ, last season was unkind to Razzaque.
Russian strongman Vladimir Putin earmarked the club as a symbol of Kremlin power, but Dynamo's late season collapse - netting more red herrings than a Leningrad fishmonger - was more like Krypton. First the club fell out of contention, and then favour. Putin eventually sold the Dynamo to a new buyer, in disgust.
Rumour has it his last words to a dejected Razzaque were, "Vodkaind of coach you are, Razzaque? You give me brewer's droop so Crimea river, davarish."
The club's new owner introduced himself in typically bombastic fashion.
"Yeah, Vlad didn't want to give it up. He didn't want to hand over the goodies, but I took it! I took Putin's D, which is a yuge thing. I took it because I'm Donald Trump, and I am gonna Make America Great Again, and Dynamo Moscow is coming along for the ride!"
Retaining Razzaque as manager
"Am I the only one who thinks that's kind of a, a hispanic, non-American sounding name? Have we checked his birth certificate yet? What was that?
WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE'S A MOOOSE-SLIM! Why I'm going to personally string hi...
[ speech interrupted by campaign aide]
"...his tennis racket, yes, that's it, his tennis racket, when I invite him over to discuss the foosball program. I'm new to this so we're getting up to speed on the scrimmage, and special teams, and quarterback recruitment. Oh, no quarterbacks? Then who throws? Whaddaya mean no hands? I mean, I know what no hands mean, y'know when Ivank....Melania's down there, but everyone knows you play football with hands, goddamnit!
[...second interruption...]
"...however this is a world game and we'll work on implementing quarters, and timeouts, freethrows and so on. Frankly, this is exactly the kind of firm leadership the world needs, and America will lead the way, just like the Kardashians lead everyone on social media."
The new look Trumps everything else
"I designed it myself under my yuge new designer label; DTF. That's Donald Trump Foosball."
"The shoulder epaulettes are woven using the same teflon fibre as my hair. I own stock in the manufacturing process. Win, lose or draw, I'm makin money hand over fist!"
Defending the net as if it were America
"I'm told that we leaked goals, just like America leaks freeloading, illegal aliens. Well that's going to stop because I'm building a defensive wall like you've never seen before, and Mexico's going to pay for it! Then we're going to shut out everything! Our point guards are going to guard against points being scored on you."
Raining goals as easily as ballistic drone strikes
I know all about scoring. I could write a book about it, and it would be compulsory reading for this team, but we need to improve our field goal percentage. When the puck comes your way, you slap shot that baby past the defenseman. Our running-backs and wide receivers have to make themselves available to catch every play, running into the end-zone at every opportunity. Our yardage will go through the roof. This, I promise you soccerballers.
Celtic FC
Celtic FC
Top100 History
Season 1 (Kevin McGregor, Jens McJockish)
Division 5 - 18th - P38 W12 D8 L18 F46 A53 GD-7 PTS44
Season 2 (Jens McJockish, ruts66)
Division 5 - 7th - P38 W16 D13 L9 F52 A37 GD+15 PTS61
Play-Off Final Runner Up
Season 3 Preview - Division 5
Playing Staff
38 Senior (84-88), 12 Squad/Youth (75-83)
Avg Age: 24
Avg Rating: 84
Value: £161m
Wage Bill: £850k
1st XI
Avg Age: 25
Avg Rating: 87
Avg Value: £4.8m
Key Players
Riccardo Saponara 24/88 M(C),AM(RLC) - Club Captain
Bojan Krkic 25/88 AM(C),F(RLC)
M'baye Niang 21/87 AM(RL),F(RLC)
Ousmane Dembele 19/85 AM,F(RLC)
Notable Transfer Activity
Mastour to Southampton for £10m
Vazquez from Besiktas for £6.5m
Roberts + cash to Porto for Bojan
Chairman's Expectation
To challenge for promotion
Manager's Ambition
To improve on Season 2 (> 61pts)
Manager's Opinion
"I expect the forthcoming season to be an even harder challenge than the one just gone. There are, on paper, at least a dozen sides capable of winning the Division 5 title pending a fast start and the kind of momentum possible with the current SM engine. In my eyes, Olympiacos, Hertha and Celta Vigo look best equipped to pose the initial danger. Really looking forward to my first full season in charge, bring it on..."
World Club Cup Qualifiers
The teams in yellow are confirmed for the World Club Cup & teams in red have rejected participation. Any team not highlighted is yet to confirm either way, so if you could let me know asap so i can get the groups done, thanks.
FRANKBET Odds - Season 3 - DIVISION 4
As the excitement builds to Season 3 of Top 100 and also the move full time to the new SM Interface Top SM Bookmaker, FRANKBET have taken the time to view the favourites and the odds across the Divisions and today it is the term of Division 4.
FRANKBET are also pleased to announce a brand new logo for their business which has come about due to increased funding and has seen a new launch of offices in addition to the Genoa HQ, but also in Turin and Milan. They are also looking at sites in Liverpool with the preferred sites in Toxeth and Queens Road where they are considering taking over a former library which has had to be closed due to looting and lack of interest in books.
Anyway business affairs aside lets get onto SM Top 100 Division 4 odds. (Please note these odds are for promotion and not necessarily to win the league.)
Malaga 1/1000
Torino 5/2
Villarreal 7/2
Dynamo Moscow 8/1
Sassuolo 9/1
Sampdoria 9/1
Atalanta 12/1
West Ham 16/1
Feyenoord 16/1
FC Koln 22/1
Hamburg 25/1
VFB Stuttgart 33/1
Sao Paulo 33/1
AZ 50/1
Chievo Verona 50/1
River Plate 60/1
Dnipro 100/1
Montpeillier 500/1
Hellas Verona 650/1
Lille 5000/1
FRANKBET analysts admitted after publishing the odds that they had heard that as a favour for messing up promotion last season in favour of Frank's Genoa that Malaga will be given preferential treatment next season in SM Top 100 Season 3. "We have it on record from a number of sources that if Malaga dont win the league by a huge margin they it will be down to Billington's in-adept management as the SM authorities will do all in their power to ensure Malaga go up.
Huddo and Kelly, an Aussie and an Irishman are both expected to fair well and be in the fight for automatic promotion come next season with short odds on both sides.
Of the Div 3 relegated sides FRANKBET back Marco of the Angels to fair the best, with the wing winged creatures on his side anything is possible and with Marco's former side, Hellas Verona in this Division it is a division he knows well and anything less than play-offs would be considered a failure in truth.
Razzaque and Moscow are expected to do well again but with rumours of a franchise move to the USA to become Dynamo Washington as opposed to Moscow in the offing it remains to be seen it this will impact on the players and the sides form.
Nicky Thomson's preference of racing cars in Canada as opposed to even attending West Ham games has not gone down well with the fans and again FRANKBET can't see them getting out of Division 4.
At the bottom, they believe Mark Hewitt will continue to struggle as he is clearly not good enough to be successful in a gameworld as competitive as Top 100. Likewise Mr Andre Villa-Baos, a Portuguese manager in Italy - how novel - that will surely never work?
Anyway FRANKBET predict they will struggle immensely.
As for a few select others, Mr Feargal O'Hickey wont be able to cope with European Competition and maintaining success in the league and will finish mid-table and as for Wheels, a little bit of an unknown quantity to the FRANKBET community, but a manager who talks about spoons, surely a relegation fight for him!
Italy world cup shame. Belgium vs Spain final
Italian manager to be replaced, reports by Italian press.
Balotelli never to play for Italy again.
Why didn't we take Fiorentina players, what a mistake to make.
The first semi final saw a hapless dirty fouling Italian side cut down to size by the silky smooth Spanish machine. After the 20th minute goal Italy had no answer Balotelli was as usual the main culprit missing an absolute sitter in the 68 minute. With no fire power DE GEA was able to cook a Paella and serve it up to his adoring fans.
Balotelli skulked off at the end of the game and drove off with Italian manager, never to be seen again in the Italian national colours.
It may also be the unusual training routine that was to blame as many fans claim they saw Mario stroking his pole for ages before the game.
In the other game a dramatic penalty shoot out saw Portugal only manage to put one past the Belgium keeper. Portugal claimed that Belgium had installed a giant fan behind the goal but this was denied by celebrity fan Axelle Despiegelaere.
