Peter Crouch Wife Abbey Clancy
Peter Crouch Wife Abbey Clancy
Peter Crouch Wife Abbey Clancy
Peter Crouch Wife Abbey Clancy
Peter Crouch Wife Abbey Clancy
Peter Crouch Wife Abbey Clancy
Peter Crouch Wife Abbey Clancy
5 Richest Young Men
Washington DC: The wealth gains from the hard work that pioneered the business, or family heritage. At least, the above logic explains the origin of the wealth of the world's youngest rich according to Economics and Business Magazine, Forbes. Here is a list of five young men at the top:
1. Dustin Moskovitz
Dustin Moskovitz were roommates Mark Zuckerberg while continuing his education at Harvard University. At the age of 27 years, his fortune reached $ 3.5 billion or equivalent to Rp 33 trillion. In addition to his business on Facebook, Moskovitz also set up a social institution with Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and Warren Buffet.
2. Mark Zuckerberg
Who does not know the Facebook Creator and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Do not be fooled of his appearance. He was fond of wearing sandals or T-shirts. But stand at USD 17.5 billion fortune. If Zuckerberg was born eight days earlier than Dustin Moskovitz, he will be in the highest position of this list.
3. Albert Maria Lamoral
Since his father died, he bequeathed the throne and appointed the Prince of Thurn and Taxis, since 1990. The rich Germany Young men who was born June 24, 1983 in Regensburg, Germany, his wealth's reaching USD 1.5 billion.
4. Scott Duncan
Scott is the son of the founder of a successful entrepreneur Enterprise Products, Dan Duncan. When Dan breathed his last on March 28, 2010, he bequeathed $ 1 billion to Scott. Over time, Scott's wealth rises up to USD 4.1 billion when he is 29 years old.
5. Eduardo Saverin
In addition to Dustin Moskovitz, Mark Zuckerberg and Chris Hughes, Eduardo's name is in the list of the founders of Facebook. Eduardo was at odds with Zuckerberg because he considered his best friend betrayed him. Forbes noted, the birth of Sao Paulo, Brazil, 29 years ago, has assets valued at USD 2 billion. (Liputan6.com)
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Lambert’s Daunting Task At Villa Park
The philosophy of Martin O’Neill to buy young English talent was both beneficial for the clubs performance in the league and for the profit made of their sales. The major issue which has curtailed Villa in recent years however has been the inability to replace both these players and the manager. The arrival of Lambert seems to have addressed at least one of these issues.
When watching England this summer, it fills a Villa fan with real pride to see players like Young, Milner and Downing in the side, unfortunately injuries to Barry and Cahill restricted even more ex Villa players from playing a part in the current squad. Unfortunately for Villa however, these players had to move on in order to progress their careers. Quite simply, Villa were not big enough for them.
A difficult two years
When watching England this summer, it fills a Villa fan with real pride to see players like Young, Milner and Downing in the side, unfortunately injuries to Barry and Cahill restricted even more ex Villa players from playing a part in the current squad. Unfortunately for Villa however, these players had to move on in order to progress their careers. Quite simply, Villa were not big enough for them.
A difficult two years
How could they believe that hiring a relegated, Birmingham City manager, was a good decision? You have to base McLeish’s record not on what he says, but on what he has done. He was simply not the right choice, and if the league had been 39 games long, we would have gone down! A shocking thought, yet one which was very much real. It was not easy for McLeish however; he lost both Young and Downing last summer and was given the remit of cutting costs and wages, for any manager that would be difficult, yet McLeish's problem was that he just didn’t win the fans over.
In fact he actually made Villa the most hated side in the league! I can’t say the boards decision to sack McLeish was a “good decision”, it was simply them clearing up their own mess. I must say that I blame the fans for their negativity last season of which I am sure did not help the sides performances, yet I can understand their views because McLeish’s tactics and mentality killed the atmosphere.
The important thing for me is that the fans never act like that again, it was like a cancer, slowly killing the club. And yet, after the storm comes the sun, and although Lerner appeared set on making a mockery out of Villa again, on another managerial hunt, which judging on last summer showed no vision or planning, this time appeared more organised, the board seemed to know what the fans and players wanted.
Different targets, only one was right
Solskjaer was an interesting target; he was young, had experience of playing for a top side and learning from a top manager in Ferguson and had shown he could achieve success with the sides he managed. My worry however was the weight of the job that Villa offered, it is a very difficult role to take over right now, even though the fans will support anyone coming in, the task of the challenge was great, this is a side who almost got relegated. Not an easy task.
We have seen a real emergence of young British managers in the past few years and it is no surprise that Rogers, Lambert and Houghton have been heavily sought after. Yet for me it had to be Paul Lambert. In my opinion, Lambert is the best of these managers, especially for what is required at Villa. Rogers is very set in his ideology, one which requires specific attributes of his players, those fans wanting Martinez needed to consider the same issue, can our players play this way, or importantly, if they try to play this way, will they stay up?
A pragmatist is essential
What Lambert represents is pragmatism, perhaps this is seen as a negative word, in fact it is perhaps the most essential part of management. Know your players and adapt your styles to suit them. Villa needed a pragmatist, not an idealist. Lambert has shown at Norwich that he can adapt, be progressive and understand the league and his players. Importantly, he is excellent at bringing in and developing players with relatively little money, this may be an essential skill at Villa.
Lambert has shown a trait of which characterizes the best in football management, the ability to get more from the players you have. Lambert did not just survive this past season with Norwich, he provided a mid table finish, playing some good football. His strength was an insatiable appetite and clear conviction in getting his players to put their all into each game, Ferguson said that the game at Carrow Rd was the hardest United have had this season.
Foreign education?
For me, Lambert’s qualities come from this previous experiences as a player, his movement from Glasgow to Dortmund is a move not many top British players make and what it gave him was the chance to learn new styles, tactics and play with the quality of players like Matthias Sammer. It also gave him a Champions League winners medal too, a very impressive feat.
As a coach he then learnt and developed his knowledge in Germany, which I think has been essential for his managerial career. He sees the game differently than many in the English league and it shows in his sides performances this past season. His understanding and ability to change tactics in a game shows a real knowledge of the game and its requirements. Am I pleased he has decided to come to Villa, ecstatic!
A difficult task?
Any manager coming into Villa would galvanise the fans and players, yet Lambert offers us the real hope of making Villa a respectable club again, we have become hated by many under McLeish, Lambert will seek to improve our reputation with the fans and those outside the club. This is important, because Villa needs to become an attractive club to players. Can we reach the heights of the top six, I doubt it, yet our aim in the next three years should be for 7th-10th, this is where I believe Villa are in terms of their standing in the league, it is not a negative, simply we do not have the money or quality to be any higher.
Foreign education?
For me, Lambert’s qualities come from this previous experiences as a player, his movement from Glasgow to Dortmund is a move not many top British players make and what it gave him was the chance to learn new styles, tactics and play with the quality of players like Matthias Sammer. It also gave him a Champions League winners medal too, a very impressive feat.
As a coach he then learnt and developed his knowledge in Germany, which I think has been essential for his managerial career. He sees the game differently than many in the English league and it shows in his sides performances this past season. His understanding and ability to change tactics in a game shows a real knowledge of the game and its requirements. Am I pleased he has decided to come to Villa, ecstatic!
A difficult task?
Any manager coming into Villa would galvanise the fans and players, yet Lambert offers us the real hope of making Villa a respectable club again, we have become hated by many under McLeish, Lambert will seek to improve our reputation with the fans and those outside the club. This is important, because Villa needs to become an attractive club to players. Can we reach the heights of the top six, I doubt it, yet our aim in the next three years should be for 7th-10th, this is where I believe Villa are in terms of their standing in the league, it is not a negative, simply we do not have the money or quality to be any higher.
However, there are issues to address for Lambert to get Villa to this position. As mentioned, we have been stripped of our quality; Milner, Young and Downing are real losses and simply have not been replaced. McLeish did not motivate the players he had, yet was devoid of the quality afforded O'Neill and Houllier previously. I do not expect Villa to spend huge sums on players this summer, Lerner invested heavily under O’Neill and a period of high wages and average players ensued. With the departures of Cuellar and Heskey, Villa are seeking to gradually reduce their wage bill, yet is what we are left with good enough?
Average, unmotivated squad?
As for what else Lambert has to work with, there are issues all over the pitch and perhaps only a few bright sparks. Firstly defensively, I question the mobility of Collins and Dunne, and worry that in Cuellar, we have lost our best central defender. In Nathan Baker we appear to have a potentially decent player, yet I have not seen enough to believe he can be a starter. Our best option may be Ciaran Clark, who although has shown his ability in midfield, is much more needed in defence. Rumours of interest from West Ham in Collins should be seriously considered, his wages are high and we should seek to move him on. It means however that we need a centre back to come in, potentially with speed and mobility.
We also need to consider our full back issues of Warnock and Collins. Licah and Herd may be possibilities to replace these two, yet I am conscious that our squad is very thin on depth and importantly experience. As for midfield, Petrov’s illness is a real shame for the man, however I felt he was finished at Villa last summer, we need to now consider replacing him. Herd and Clark have played in these areas this past season, yet I feel we need more in there. Makoun is a puzzling situation, personally I think he would be perfect for what we need, yet I question how much desire he has to stay at Villa and again, will Lambert like him?
There are players like Delph and Ireland who have not impressed enough for their value and who I believe we should seek to move them on. However, does anyone want them? And it leaves the issue of squad size. Carruthers and Gardner have shown they possess potential ability yet Bannan has not impressed since his drink driving incident, however we must seek to bring in players who can carry these young players as they develop.
Out wide I believe we need to consider bringing in at least one player to motivate N'Zogbia and Albrighton (who I do believe can flourish under Lambert). We have always seemed to lack a creative midfield player and it is important we look to bring one in, I believe that Johnny Howson, recently bought by Lambert from Leeds would be a great addition to the side, however the issues of bad relations between the clubs will possibly effect this potentially great signing.
Up front, I believe in Weimann Villa have a real gem, who will need playing time this season to develop further. As for Bent and Agbonlahor, I believe Villa will stick with them, yet I would consider selling at least one of them. If an offer of £20 million came in for Bent, I would be inclined to accept it. Yet if an offer of £10 million came in for Gabby, I would choose that deal instead. Bent gives you goals and he, like the others, has clearly been affected by McLeish and the atmosphere this past season, a new lease of life into the club may be perfect for Bent, who is a prolific scorer. Whereas Gabby is just not good enough, Weimann shows much more potential, those Villa fans who love Gabby need to view him objectively, he lacks the quality, understanding and finishing ability to be a top player, he is not young either, at 25 he does not indicate future potential, meaning that what you see is what you get, which is simply not good enough.
Realistic targets?
We also need to consider our full back issues of Warnock and Collins. Licah and Herd may be possibilities to replace these two, yet I am conscious that our squad is very thin on depth and importantly experience. As for midfield, Petrov’s illness is a real shame for the man, however I felt he was finished at Villa last summer, we need to now consider replacing him. Herd and Clark have played in these areas this past season, yet I feel we need more in there. Makoun is a puzzling situation, personally I think he would be perfect for what we need, yet I question how much desire he has to stay at Villa and again, will Lambert like him?
There are players like Delph and Ireland who have not impressed enough for their value and who I believe we should seek to move them on. However, does anyone want them? And it leaves the issue of squad size. Carruthers and Gardner have shown they possess potential ability yet Bannan has not impressed since his drink driving incident, however we must seek to bring in players who can carry these young players as they develop.
Out wide I believe we need to consider bringing in at least one player to motivate N'Zogbia and Albrighton (who I do believe can flourish under Lambert). We have always seemed to lack a creative midfield player and it is important we look to bring one in, I believe that Johnny Howson, recently bought by Lambert from Leeds would be a great addition to the side, however the issues of bad relations between the clubs will possibly effect this potentially great signing.
Up front, I believe in Weimann Villa have a real gem, who will need playing time this season to develop further. As for Bent and Agbonlahor, I believe Villa will stick with them, yet I would consider selling at least one of them. If an offer of £20 million came in for Bent, I would be inclined to accept it. Yet if an offer of £10 million came in for Gabby, I would choose that deal instead. Bent gives you goals and he, like the others, has clearly been affected by McLeish and the atmosphere this past season, a new lease of life into the club may be perfect for Bent, who is a prolific scorer. Whereas Gabby is just not good enough, Weimann shows much more potential, those Villa fans who love Gabby need to view him objectively, he lacks the quality, understanding and finishing ability to be a top player, he is not young either, at 25 he does not indicate future potential, meaning that what you see is what you get, which is simply not good enough.
Realistic targets?
And who are realistic targets for Villa this summer? For me, Villa’s targets should be; in defence, Grant Hanley from Blackburn, the Scottish international has impressed in a difficult Blackburn side and at only 20, he offers a bright future. In midfield I would be tempted to go to Blackburn again and bring in Steven N’Zonzi, I believe at 23 the French midfielder is too good for Blackburn and could give Villa much needed quality in midfield. Another midfielder we should seek to replace Petrov is Diame at Wigan, he is a player who could offer a lot to Villa’s midfield to add intensity and strength, which has been lacking in recent seasons.
To add extra creativity to the midfield I think Villa should consider either Howson or Mark Davies, players who will give the creativity Villa currently lack. Out wide there have been rumours of Adam Johnson being available on loan, he would be a top class player for Villa and would certainly provide more than our current wingers.
There has been talk also of a possible loan deal involving Daniel Sturridge, for me this would be a great signing, he showed his class at Bolton and at times for Chelsea last season, yet it seems he is being phased out with the new arrivals at Stamford Bridge and he will be wanting to play and impress rather than sit on the bench. Other than him I believe Steven Fletcher is the obvious choice, far too good for the Championship and a player who can offer a lot to Villa. Another to consider may be Nicholas Bendtner, he can be a very talented player for a mid table Premier League side and a consistent run in the side will bring out the best of him.
Yet these may only be considerations if Bent was sold, £20m is a lot of money and it would give Lambert the funds needed to build his squad. Let us not forget that Lambert is excellent at bringing in lower league players and getting them to perform in the top league, this will be important as he looks to build a side on relatively little.
A daunting task ahead
To add extra creativity to the midfield I think Villa should consider either Howson or Mark Davies, players who will give the creativity Villa currently lack. Out wide there have been rumours of Adam Johnson being available on loan, he would be a top class player for Villa and would certainly provide more than our current wingers.
There has been talk also of a possible loan deal involving Daniel Sturridge, for me this would be a great signing, he showed his class at Bolton and at times for Chelsea last season, yet it seems he is being phased out with the new arrivals at Stamford Bridge and he will be wanting to play and impress rather than sit on the bench. Other than him I believe Steven Fletcher is the obvious choice, far too good for the Championship and a player who can offer a lot to Villa. Another to consider may be Nicholas Bendtner, he can be a very talented player for a mid table Premier League side and a consistent run in the side will bring out the best of him.
Yet these may only be considerations if Bent was sold, £20m is a lot of money and it would give Lambert the funds needed to build his squad. Let us not forget that Lambert is excellent at bringing in lower league players and getting them to perform in the top league, this will be important as he looks to build a side on relatively little.
A daunting task ahead
All in all Lambert has a very difficult yet exciting task ahead, there is much work to do at Villa, work which requires an austerity mentality of cutting wages and receiving potentially little support in the transfer market. A daunting task perhaps and Lambert was keen to dismiss talk of expectations. Yet Lambert is the best man for the job, his mentor was O’Neill and you can see this in his demeanour and character, yet he appears more astute and Villa are very lucky to have attained the services of one of the best young coaches not just in England but in Europe.
In recent years we have seen Jurgen Klopp take an under performing Dortmund side to the top of the Bundesliga, I doubt whether Lambert can achieve this, yet they are similar individuals and Villa is not so far different to the situation Klopp inherited; a period of financial austerity, a strong youth academy and a club which has a strong history which has fell off in recent years. It is an exciting time for Villa with their new man and I hope the fans bring back a positive atmosphere and by doing so the players and club can be galvanised, this will be key if we wish our club to progress back up the table. I for one though wish to welcome Lambert, I am very excited about our new manager and the new era which awaits our club.
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Michael Carrick. England's Most Underrated Player
Michael Carrick will be 31 when the new season kicks off in August. His debut for England came in 2001, since then he has played 22 caps. 22! This is quite amazing, as for me, this is one of the most cultured and needed players for England and yet is the most underrated and undervalued player in English football.
Carrick was part of West Ham's impressive youth squad, consisting of Defoe and Joe Cole. He impressed at West Ham yet was helpless to prevent their relegation and was denied the chance to come back up when they lost 1-0 to Crystal Palace in the playoff final. He decided he needed to be playing in the Premier League and moved across London to Spurs. His emergence at Spurs came when Martin Jol took the reigns of the club and almost took Spurs to the Champions League, losing out on 4th on the last day of the season. Yet he was set for another move and this time it was to England's biggest club.
Keane's successor
When Carrick moved to Old Trafford in 2006 he was touted as the replacement for Keane. Keane had left the club in 2005 and the club were seeking his successor. It can be argued that Carrick was nothing like Keane, he lacked the tenacity, ferociousness and leadership of which Keane epitomised. However, as I have argued previously, United were looking for a new modern approach to the game, they were not seeking Keane's replacement, but a new version.
Keane's successor
When Carrick moved to Old Trafford in 2006 he was touted as the replacement for Keane. Keane had left the club in 2005 and the club were seeking his successor. It can be argued that Carrick was nothing like Keane, he lacked the tenacity, ferociousness and leadership of which Keane epitomised. However, as I have argued previously, United were looking for a new modern approach to the game, they were not seeking Keane's replacement, but a new version.
His arrival clearly had an impact, that season United would go and win the Premier League for the first time since 2003. Between that time Arsenal and then the newly invested Chelsea side would go and win back to back titles. There were some serious doubts about United were and Ferguson was being questioned. The arrivals of Ronaldo and Rooney had seen United look for the long term development of the side, rather than immediate success. The influence of Quieroz I have argued before was instrumental in United seeking to adapt to a new style, of which Keane was disapproving of. His release showed that a new direction was being sought, and it was clear that both Ferguson and Quieroz felt Carrick was an instrumental addition to their new style.
A necessary player
As United sought to play a fluid attacking four in a 4-2-3-1 formation, they needed a player who could supply balls to the attacking quartet. In his first season Carrick played 46 games in total, he was the missing piece in the development of this new generation. United reached the semi-final of the Champions League too that season and also lost to Chelsea in the FA Cup final. It was a positive sign that United were heading back to their best. Perhaps Carrick's best game was the 7-1 demolition of Roma in the Champions League at Old Trafford, his vision, passing, movement and two goals, was a standout performance from a player that many had questioned his ability to cut it at United.
The following season was even better, a Premier League crown and Champions of Europe, meant that United were back on top of world football, with the balance of Carrick, Scholes and Hargreaves playing in midfield, the side had a strong core which enabled the quality of Ronaldo, Rooney, Tevez, Giggs and Berbatov to showcase their talent. Although the arrivals of Anderson and Hargreaves appeared to show Carrick had competition for his place, it seemed more like Anderson was to play further forward and Hargreaves would perhaps be Carrick's partner in midfield.
A change of style
A change of style
Since then United have seen a change in style and personnel; Quieroz's exit changed the style, yet United have continued to be successful, although in the 2009 Champions League final defeat to Barcelona, Carrick described it as as worst night of his career as he said "the game just seemed to pass us by and we were unable to do anything about it." A midfield of Anderson, Carrick and Giggs just could not deal with the movement and speed of play of Barcelona, who simply outplayed United that night. It was a sign that Barcelona's new style was about to dominate world football.
United that following summer lost Ronaldo and Tevez and replaced them with Owen and Valencia. A change in quality and style was expected and that following season Carrick experienced his first season at United without a trophy. However in 2010-11 United were back on top again in England and were once again denied by Barcelona in the Champions League final. It was another abject performance by United, with Carrick and Giggs playing in the centre of midfield. That season also saw United lose to the eventual FA Cup winners Man City in the semi final, it was Carrick's error which led to Yaya Toure's goal and Carrick was being questioned once again by many in the media.
This past season has been partnered with Anderson and Phil Jones and in the second half of the season, by the retired Scholes. United's improvements were seen when Scholes returned, quite simply, it gave Carrick support of which Jones and Anderson failed to offer sufficiently. Perhaps Cleverly could have offered a lot to the side, he showed glimpses before getting injured, yet it is important to consider the factors as to why Carrick is so important to United and what he needs to be more effective.
Carrick's need for a sidekick
United that following summer lost Ronaldo and Tevez and replaced them with Owen and Valencia. A change in quality and style was expected and that following season Carrick experienced his first season at United without a trophy. However in 2010-11 United were back on top again in England and were once again denied by Barcelona in the Champions League final. It was another abject performance by United, with Carrick and Giggs playing in the centre of midfield. That season also saw United lose to the eventual FA Cup winners Man City in the semi final, it was Carrick's error which led to Yaya Toure's goal and Carrick was being questioned once again by many in the media.
This past season has been partnered with Anderson and Phil Jones and in the second half of the season, by the retired Scholes. United's improvements were seen when Scholes returned, quite simply, it gave Carrick support of which Jones and Anderson failed to offer sufficiently. Perhaps Cleverly could have offered a lot to the side, he showed glimpses before getting injured, yet it is important to consider the factors as to why Carrick is so important to United and what he needs to be more effective.
Carrick's need for a sidekick
One of the biggest losses for United in the past 18 months, and in both finals against Barcelona, was the absence of Darren Fletcher. This is quite an amazing statement, yet Fletcher's contribution to the side has become vital for United being effective. As Giggs and Scholes have got older, as Hargreaves' injuries curtailed his United career and Anderson has not progressed, Carrick has been devoid of a stable and effective player beside him. With Fletcher, although he lacks the flair and skill that perhaps many great midfielders have, what Fletcher brought to United was a a tenacity and bite to the midfield, which was absent when he was.
For me, Owen Hargreaves was the perfect partner for Carrick, his mobility, bite and work rate to close and spoil play, enabled Carrick time and space to do what he does so effectively, which is providing the forwards with excellent passes. A criticism of Carrick can be that he struggles when he is pressed quickly, yet without someone to create space for him, he has been left exposed.
Match of the Day culture
In my opinion it is an indictment of many fans and media that they do not see the value in Carrick however. I believe this is in part to the culture we live in; a match of the day culture which means that many experts and fans base their opinions on the highlights they see. When I hear people talk about Carrick's absence in the game, his inability to get involved and his lack of goals, they are more often than not only seeing the highlights, they are basing their opinions on what they see and hear and not on the actual game itself. When you actually see United play, you see how effective Carrick is and how important he is to the balance and tempo of United. His intelligence, vision and movement means he supplies Rooney, Valencia and Nani constantly and with accuracy, the stats show he was the best English midfielder in the Premier League last season, yet why has he been so neglected by England?
Restricted role nationally
Match of the Day culture
In my opinion it is an indictment of many fans and media that they do not see the value in Carrick however. I believe this is in part to the culture we live in; a match of the day culture which means that many experts and fans base their opinions on the highlights they see. When I hear people talk about Carrick's absence in the game, his inability to get involved and his lack of goals, they are more often than not only seeing the highlights, they are basing their opinions on what they see and hear and not on the actual game itself. When you actually see United play, you see how effective Carrick is and how important he is to the balance and tempo of United. His intelligence, vision and movement means he supplies Rooney, Valencia and Nani constantly and with accuracy, the stats show he was the best English midfielder in the Premier League last season, yet why has he been so neglected by England?
Restricted role nationally
Amazingly he is not in the England squad this summer. An argument can be made that his desire to be a starter in the side has impacted on his lack of inclusion, however the question must be why he is not considered an integral part of the England XI. In my opinion, 22 caps is a crying shame to a man of such quality, especially in a country which lacks genuine quality. His difficulty has come from the ongoing Gerrard and Lampard debate and in recent years there has been the emergence of Gareth Barry and now Scott Parker. Personally, I am amazed about how he has not played more, yet incidents like in Aug 2011 when Carrick was apparently injured for England, only to play for United a few days later, did not reflect well on Carrick. Of the two tournament he has gone to with England, the World Cups in 2006 and 2010, he only played in one game.
For me, Carrick has been overlooked because he does suit the English culture, he is not the type of player to which England are used to, he is cultured, balanced and above all disciplined. You don't see Carrick tearing all over the pitch, you don't see him irrate at players and officials, what he is is a true professional and one who must be a great player to coach and have in your side. Yet the media and many fans don't see it like that, they want the players from the Lucozade adverts, the Gerrard types who tackle hard, work box to box, score the winning goals, the classic Roy of the Rovers type. Yet Gerrard lacks the discipline for which Carrick would have provided and not just this tournament but the previous ones also. A Parker/Carrick midfield would have given England the balance and solidity to which England need, for which all the top international sides need.
For me, if Carrick was Italian, Spanish or German, he would be in their sides; he resembles the Pirlo's, Alonso's and Schweinstieger type player of which we lavish so much praise, yet naive and ignorant that we have one of these players ourselves. Such a shame therefore that managers, fans and the media have neglected and ridiculed his ability and purpose, unaware that Carrick offers England a genuine chance of success, because his style suits the continental and international game.
Neglected & wasted
For me, if Carrick was Italian, Spanish or German, he would be in their sides; he resembles the Pirlo's, Alonso's and Schweinstieger type player of which we lavish so much praise, yet naive and ignorant that we have one of these players ourselves. Such a shame therefore that managers, fans and the media have neglected and ridiculed his ability and purpose, unaware that Carrick offers England a genuine chance of success, because his style suits the continental and international game.
Neglected & wasted
Is it not amazing that one of the world's best managers has used Carrick as his main midfielder in what has been one of United's most successful periods, yet he is deemed not good enough for England? Would Ferguson have brought him in and used him for six seasons continually if he did not think he was good enough? While United have benefited from his class and discipline, the sad truth is that a player of such quality has played such a small part in this "golden generation" of the England national team.
Imagine what could have been had Carrick being the hub of our midfield, supplying the attack and staying disciplined in his position, thus providing balance for the whole side. International football, like European football, is different to the Premier League, it is more controlled and balance and discipline are key to being successful. In these tournaments, mistakes both tactically and technically are punished severely, the Premier League produces very high tempo, direct players, who can cause problems for some sides. Yet the best sides find gaps in these sides, meaning it is vital that a player like Carrick plays a structured and disciplined game, forsaking the glamour and riches for the good of the side.
A true team player however in England is not lauded or respected, in fact he is actually derided, derided for his lack of drive and charisma. Oh, how our Match of the Day culture needs to alter, how our views on players need to change, because the issue is, Michael Carrick is a player England have needed for a decade and the sad truth is that at 31, England have missed out on his talents dearly.
The Whitehouse Address aims to give it's opinion on all aspects of the game in order to question decisions and parts of the game which can be improved and developed for the future of the game. If you agree or disagree (as many seem to) then feel free to comment below or debate on Twitter @The_W_Address
Imagine what could have been had Carrick being the hub of our midfield, supplying the attack and staying disciplined in his position, thus providing balance for the whole side. International football, like European football, is different to the Premier League, it is more controlled and balance and discipline are key to being successful. In these tournaments, mistakes both tactically and technically are punished severely, the Premier League produces very high tempo, direct players, who can cause problems for some sides. Yet the best sides find gaps in these sides, meaning it is vital that a player like Carrick plays a structured and disciplined game, forsaking the glamour and riches for the good of the side.
A true team player however in England is not lauded or respected, in fact he is actually derided, derided for his lack of drive and charisma. Oh, how our Match of the Day culture needs to alter, how our views on players need to change, because the issue is, Michael Carrick is a player England have needed for a decade and the sad truth is that at 31, England have missed out on his talents dearly.
The Whitehouse Address aims to give it's opinion on all aspects of the game in order to question decisions and parts of the game which can be improved and developed for the future of the game. If you agree or disagree (as many seem to) then feel free to comment below or debate on Twitter @The_W_Address
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Can Vilanova Deal With The Pressures of Camp Nou?
In the past four years Barcelona have dominated world football, they have inspired children, coaches and fans to watch and learn their style of play. Their manager Pep Guardiola inspired his players to entertain their fans, to show the world how football should and could be played. At times ideologies can be only just dreams, yet Guardiola took his vision and put it into reality. He took a good side to greatness, in terms of quality and success. As Guardiola departs, a new era arrives at Camp Nou and with that era uncertainty prevails.
When Guardiola arrived, there were many doubters who questioned his credentials and suitability to the job. Barcelona had experienced a difficult 07-08 season and the board felt a change was needed both with the managers and players. Out went Rijkaard and in came Guardiola, who felt that removing Ronaldinho and Deco was important for his new vision. The board apparently wanted to replace Xavi also, yet Guardiola told them and him that Xavi was essential. The rest they say is history and his decisions have been vindicated. The emergence of Messi, Iniesta, Busquets, Pedro and Pique were all nurtured and developed under Guardiola’s guidance. However, they now have lost their teacher, yet his successor will seek to continue the work of Guardiola.
From the shadows enters Tito
From the shadows enters Tito
Tito Vilanova was the man Guardiola sought out when he arrived at Barcelona, Vilanova has been credited along with Guardiola for the work done at Camp Nou. Sometimes the assistant can be as valuable as the head coach and these two certainly were a team. Guardiola decided that he could not continue however, a mixture of the pressure of the job, the media attention and a belief that managers and sides come in cycles, meant that his time was up. Yet, can Vilanova be the man to take this side further? It was going to be very difficult for any manager to come in after Guardiola. A period of such success will eventually lead to a period with less. It is just not possible to maintain this level of performance, other sides will improve and the current squad will age and move on.
These aspects are concerns for Vilanova as he prepares to take over this group. Firstly, the top sides in Europe; Madrid, Bayern and even Man City are catching up with the quality of Barcelona and importantly, are developing styles and ways to prevent and beat Barcelona. The decision to defend very deep and compact has nullified the Barcelona way and has seen sides like Madrid, Inter and Chelsea overcome then in recent seasons. Yet, the fact that most sides defend like this against Barca and only a few come out successfully shows that the quality of Barca is still a worry to all sides. I do believe however that there a few sides that are close to the quality of Barcelona, yet it is still a difficult task to overcome them. I believe the biggest issue affecting this club is themselves.
Idealist visions
These aspects are concerns for Vilanova as he prepares to take over this group. Firstly, the top sides in Europe; Madrid, Bayern and even Man City are catching up with the quality of Barcelona and importantly, are developing styles and ways to prevent and beat Barcelona. The decision to defend very deep and compact has nullified the Barcelona way and has seen sides like Madrid, Inter and Chelsea overcome then in recent seasons. Yet, the fact that most sides defend like this against Barca and only a few come out successfully shows that the quality of Barca is still a worry to all sides. I do believe however that there a few sides that are close to the quality of Barcelona, yet it is still a difficult task to overcome them. I believe the biggest issue affecting this club is themselves.
Idealist visions
This past season was a period of experimentation for Barcelona; they attempted to implement a 3-4-3 formation, which at times was scintillating, the 5-0 drubbing of Villareal on the first game of the season showed how effective it could be. Yet Barcelona do have issues to consider, mainly, replacing some its key yet ageing stars.Gerard Pique has had a difficult season, his celebrity girlfriend and lifestyle affecting his performances and it resulted in him spending many minutes on the side and Mascherano’s development into a ball playing centre back has been impressive yet I believe that Barcelona need someone to replace what Carlos Puyol has given to the side. Names like Hummels and Silva have been suggested, yet it appears they are not going to arrive at Camp Nou.
I believe Javi Martinez could be a real possibility, his ability to move between defence and midfield impresses a side like Barcelona who seek to be fluid and interchange positions. His affiliation with the Basque region will be a definite pulling point too, yet replacing Puyol will not be an easy task, he brings more to the side than just his playing ability, he is a leader and a role model to the players, he knows and lives the culture of Barcelona.
Puyol will be still be around, yet age has caught up with the Barca captain and they need to act sooner than later to replace him. At left back, Abidal’s replacement appears to be Jordi Alba, who possesses the skill and speed for which was developed at La Masia as a boy, so I have no doubts about how effective he can be next season.
Replacing the conductor
I believe Javi Martinez could be a real possibility, his ability to move between defence and midfield impresses a side like Barcelona who seek to be fluid and interchange positions. His affiliation with the Basque region will be a definite pulling point too, yet replacing Puyol will not be an easy task, he brings more to the side than just his playing ability, he is a leader and a role model to the players, he knows and lives the culture of Barcelona.
Puyol will be still be around, yet age has caught up with the Barca captain and they need to act sooner than later to replace him. At left back, Abidal’s replacement appears to be Jordi Alba, who possesses the skill and speed for which was developed at La Masia as a boy, so I have no doubts about how effective he can be next season.
Replacing the conductor
The biggest worry for me, and it seems like this for the past couple of years, has been the worry over Xavi Hernandez. For me, the world’s best midfielder in his position; no-one reads the game, understands the game and sets the tempo as well as him. I believe Xavi’s gradual decline will restrict the flow and movement of the side, it will take some time to adapt to his reduced role. I don’t believe a replacement is needed, as Iniesta, Thiago and Fabregas could all do that role, yet it will take years to master it like Xavi has.
A change in tactics?
After the 2011 Champions League final, I would argue that Barcelona were above any other side in the world, yet every side must come back to Earth and this past season has seen them perhaps rely on Messi more than they should and by doing so, Villa's injury played a part, as they cannot just rely on Messi if they wish to be successful, and it showed this season.
Interestingly, one of Barcelona’s best performances came in the Copa Del Rey final, they continue to amaze by providing their best time and time again in finals, when it really matter. Yet it was the use of the more orthodox 4-3-3- with a false nine and Pedro and Sanchez wide, which was much better for the sides fluidity, speed and penetration. Was this a glimpse into Vilanova's tactical preference, because if he does use this tactic more next season, Barcelona will be better than the use of a 3-4-3 and 4-6-0.
The insatiable desire for Guardiola to have a side full of midfielders appeared to lose the purpose of the game, possession was not the end result yet at times it seemed that's what had become the focus. For me, when the direct Sanchez, Pedro and Villa play, Barcelona have more options other than Messi, which makes them so much more dangerous. It remains to be seen how far Vilanova is willing to perfect Cryuff’s vision, if he is more pragmatic, he will realise that the formation which served Barcelona so well in 2008-2011, is a much more effective tactic for this side.
Reconsider the Plan B?
Interestingly, one of Barcelona’s best performances came in the Copa Del Rey final, they continue to amaze by providing their best time and time again in finals, when it really matter. Yet it was the use of the more orthodox 4-3-3- with a false nine and Pedro and Sanchez wide, which was much better for the sides fluidity, speed and penetration. Was this a glimpse into Vilanova's tactical preference, because if he does use this tactic more next season, Barcelona will be better than the use of a 3-4-3 and 4-6-0.
The insatiable desire for Guardiola to have a side full of midfielders appeared to lose the purpose of the game, possession was not the end result yet at times it seemed that's what had become the focus. For me, when the direct Sanchez, Pedro and Villa play, Barcelona have more options other than Messi, which makes them so much more dangerous. It remains to be seen how far Vilanova is willing to perfect Cryuff’s vision, if he is more pragmatic, he will realise that the formation which served Barcelona so well in 2008-2011, is a much more effective tactic for this side.
Reconsider the Plan B?
There are two major issues however which concern me regarding the future of Barcelona. Firstly, do need Barcelona need the often spoken “Plan B”? Would the arrival of a Llorente type player give Barcelona what they have lacked, what they sought to bring in with Zlatan? Ultimately that was a failed experiment yet the issues remain, that as teams begin to understand and counter Barcelona’s style of play, Barcelona need to counter it too with the inclusion of a player who can offer more from crossing.
Pique has been used as this weapon in the end of many games, his injury against Chelsea was a blow not just defensively but attackingly too, yet do they need a powerful centre forward for when the games are closer and they are struggling to break the opposition down? If Vilanova is smart, he should seek this added arsenal to his impressive armoury and thus give Barcelona an all round threat, if need be.
The player who is most suited and available is Didier Drogba. On a free transfer he will not be as costly as Llorente and at 33 he will not expect to play each game, of which Zlatan did, meaning that the false 9 of Messi can be effective to start games, with Drogba being a 30 minute subsititute to give Barcelona a different approach. I am sure he would love to take his career to one of the world’s best sides and so it seems simply to be a win win situation.
Pique has been used as this weapon in the end of many games, his injury against Chelsea was a blow not just defensively but attackingly too, yet do they need a powerful centre forward for when the games are closer and they are struggling to break the opposition down? If Vilanova is smart, he should seek this added arsenal to his impressive armoury and thus give Barcelona an all round threat, if need be.
The player who is most suited and available is Didier Drogba. On a free transfer he will not be as costly as Llorente and at 33 he will not expect to play each game, of which Zlatan did, meaning that the false 9 of Messi can be effective to start games, with Drogba being a 30 minute subsititute to give Barcelona a different approach. I am sure he would love to take his career to one of the world’s best sides and so it seems simply to be a win win situation.
The biggest worry - handling pressures
Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, Vilanova is not Guardiola. As obvious as that statement is, it has potentially major repercussions for the club. Vilanova has earned the respect and trust of the players in his time at Camp Nou and they all appear happy with his promotion. However, he has shown to me a lack of charisma in front of the media which makes me worry.
What about the intense mind games of which Mourinho plays? The man who stuck his finger in Vilanova’s eye last August will surely relish enticing and playing with Tito like a cat with a mouse. Can Tito withstand the pressures and the expectations that come from one of the biggest jobs in world football? I have my doubts that he will not enjoy what awaits, and the only redeeming factor which will save him is success. The question is, can they achieve it and keep the wolves from the door? If Barcelona play the way they can, then they are still the world’s best side, yet they are much closer to the rest now, they have been brought back to Earth and without the inspirational leadership of Guardiola, can they ever achieve what they have in the past four years?
A new beginning
In 2008 Pep Guardiola was made the coach of Barcelona, it was seen as a shock to many, with no real experience except with the “B” side, many questioned whether he was good enough for the task? He answered his critics and then some, yet Guardiola was a hero at Barcelona as a player, he had the respect of Xavi and Co. immediately.
Tito Vilanova has spent his time at Barcelona in the shadows, he has now being placed in the middle of the grandest stage in world football, can he deal with the pressures and expectations that the world will expect of him, can he charm the media and duel with Jose? Only time will tell, yet what is certain is that it will be a fascinating season ahead to see if the reserved Tito can overcome the vultures and can bring success back to Camp Nou.
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**** The Whitehouse Address highly recommends OBJECTIVE BARCELONA by Bruno Miguel Espalha. If you want to know everything about Barcelona's tactics and style and importantly how to defeat it, then this book is for you! You can simply download the kindle edition off Amazon here **** Related articles from The Whitehouse Address
- Lionel Messi. Without a world cup can he be the best?
- The End of An Era at Camp Nou
- How Total Football Was Made At Barcelona
- Who is the Special One? Pep or Jose?
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