England - One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

There has been a long time since my last post on here, going back to when Euro 2012 started! But after a long absence from blogging, I have decided to come back!..

One thing, that has been on my mind recently, is the English national team, who were victorious over Brazil last night at Wembley winning 2-1. At the time people are saying its a fantastic victory and it is a landmark victory for us. I disagree.

Theo Walcott is judged to be one of the better future England
stars, yet is very average on the world stage

The win was good, I can't fault that, but we need to remember that it was a friendly match which counts for very little if you can't deliver on the big stage, remember when we beat Spain 1-0 in a friendly?. Yet we still did very average in the last major competition. The whole attitude to the England side set-up seems to me as the title says 'One step forward, two steps back'. We are making small improvements over the years but we are taking steps back as our own young talent is no where near up to the standard of what the, Argentines, Germans and Spanish are producing. The reason being our youth facilities and academies and coaching, training is just not good enough. We are producing average players for which is going to be in a few years a very average England side. Unless something changes, we will continue to falter at the quarter final stages of major competitions.

I think its embarrassing to have the biggest, richest and most powerful football league structure in the world be left with a very average side. The money is coming in from everywhere for these clubs to produce quality talent, yet we seem unable to produce it. Football clubs seem more bothered about profits, than production of their own youngsters, especially when you can buy a cheap foreign import for a small fee and develop them into a fantastic talent, which is probably cheaper than producing home grown talent, as these clubs sell off their players for cheap prices most of the time.

When people turn round and say that our best English player is Wayne Rooney, I can't disagree, he is our best player by a long distance, if you do not count Joe Hart, who I think is the best keeper I have seen since David Seaman. But when you compare Rooney on the big stage along side Lionel Messi, the gulf of class is huge. This really says a lot about our game. When our best player is no where near as good as the other top class internationals, yet we are supposed to be a big nation for football.

They've seen it all before, England fans face more years of
misery before success

I fear for the English side's future as I fail to see when we will ever win or come close to winning a major competition, I hope I am wrong, but I can't see us winning anything for another 20 years at the rate we are going at. as the Germans, Spanish are the leading giants of football talent at the moment and the youth production of these nations is took much more seriously over there, than over here. Also, the youngsters who are German or Spanish who are the same age of our up coming players are better already than our rising stars.

If we are relying on the likes of Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and such forth, we need to be worried, very worried.

Euro 2012 Preview - Group D

A little later than planned, due to feeling the effects of the weekend drinking and other things, I haven't had chance to sit down and write the fourth and final part to the preview. But as the saying goes better late than never. So, lets get started, Group D at Euro 2012 is an interesting group with England, Sweden, France and the Co-hosts Ukraine involved. Ukraine have home advantage in this group, but I think the top two spaces will be fought out between, England, Sweden and France.

England 

Welbeck will be a player to watch this year for England

Having appointed Roy Hodgson as manager England have looked decent winning 1-0 in both their friendly games, but the style of play wasn't all that thrilling. This is the first time in a long time that I have seen so little expectation on the English squad, usually football fever hits England and everyone jumps on the bandwagon of 'it is our year'. This could sway England's way, still being a major team in the tournament, yet having probably the least expectation on their shoulders, relieves the pressure. A lot would say this is a straight forward enough group for England. I disagree, I think we could potentially struggle to get out the group and I think everything will be decided if we beat France. If we fail to beat them. I think we may struggle. France are a bogey team to us, we generally draw against Sweden and we have never beaten a host nation on home soil in a tournament before adding onto this, we have never won an opening game of a Europpean competition either to my knowledge. I just feel we don't posses the quality to get through the group stage at-all. I have never seen such a weak England squad. Wayne Rooney is suspended for two games and will be a major blow, but as a nation we shouldn't need to rely on one man. Look at the likes of Spain, Germany and Holland. They have so much depth in quality, why can't England do this?. I don't know. The key players for England who stand out for me are, Joe Hart who has had a fantastic season with Man City and is going to be a number one for England for years to come, he'll be guarding the sticks to his best ability to ward off the likes of Benzema of France and Ibrahimovic of Sweden. John Terry who in my opinion should be in the squad despite his off-field issues will be the obvious rock at the back, based on ability he is probably our best centre back to chose from. Just a shame Gary Cahill picked an injury up against Belgium otherwise I'd have picked a Terry/Cahill partnership at back. Midfield options are a blend of youth and experience, Ashley Young will be the man to keep an eye on down the wings, creating chances with his pace and trickery, he also has a tidy finish on him and has had a good season with Man Utd. Scott Parker, probably one of the most under-rated English midfielders ever finally gets his chance on the big stage, the solid midfield general will probably partner Gerrard in midfield, and that is a partnership that could work. Parker wins a lot of balls in midfield and Gerrard is more attack minded. This could be a partnership we have been long awaiting for, but sadly we have woke up and smelt the coffee too late. Striking options look, and I won't lie, terrible. Andy Carroll is expected to be the 'main man' of the competition, and judging by his season at Liverpool, well... I don't have to say anything else do I?. Though Danny Welbeck who has done well for Man Utd this season will be one to watch also. I feel this tournament could be disastrous for England and perhaps this is what we need as it is a wake up call to the FA and England fans, that we are not as good as we think we are, and change is needed within our youth systems, and quickly. I tip England to crash out in the group stages, just hopefully not having the embarrassment of coming 4th.

Player To Watch - Danny Welbeck

Prediction - Group Stages (3rd)


France 

Benzema has been on fire this season, and as been in
good form for France too

France, I feel are the dark horses in the Euros. I doubt they will win the competition but I think they will put up a fight and I reckon they could potentially get to the Semi-Finals. There is just something I like about the French side this time around, they seem in my eyes to have a fairly well balanced side, and have a good manager in charge in Blanc. They also won all three of their friendly matches, keeping two clean sheets in the process. I think they will win the group, with the biggest test coming against England. Whoever wins this, will go on to win the group, but I feel France could easily beat us with the players they have. The likes of Karim Benzema being on hot form. Creativity in midfield will be provided by Sammi Nasri, Franck Ribery and Hatem Ben Arfa who have all had very good seasons with their respective clubs. The defence looks solid enough with players such as Phillipe Mexes and Adil Rami pairing at centre back. With the option of Laurent Koscielny another centre back choice. Patrice Evra will be bombing down the left side of the pitch, the tireless Man Utd man will be setting alot of play up via the left side of the field I reckon. Hugo Lloris will be in net for France and he on his day is very hard to beat. The Lyon stopper is only 25 too, a good tournament here could set alarms off for the bigger European clubs to come offering in for him. But his price tag would be pretty high.This could be an exciting tournament for France as not many predict them to light up Euro 2012, expectation in France is similar to England over here. Not much, so pressure is off them as well. I predict them to win the group though.

Player To Watch - Karim Benzema

Prediction - Semi-Finalists

Sweden 

Ibrahimovic will be the key man for Sweden

The Swedes head to Euro 2012 with two friendly wins under their belts and an average squad on the look on the team sheet, but as the old saying goes, the game is not played on paper. They on their day a tough side to beat and also have that attacking power too, to go and win games. Netting five goals in two games, yet conceding three, their defence on the first look, could be leaky. I expect the Swedes though to steal second spot ahead of England and Ukraine by the odd point or even goal difference, as I feel they will beat Ukraine, and nab a draw against England as they always tend to do. Sweden have a few quality match winning players in their squad, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be the main man to watch at Euro 2012. The powerful striker has strength in the air and ability to win high balls and get onto crosses, the forward also has a lethal finish and will put defences on high alert and will have to be closely marked. The Swedes defensively look a little weak and average. Forever present for the past 12 years is Olof Melberg in the Swedish squad who now plays for Olympiacos. Martin Olsson of Blackburn Rovers also features and will be playing probably down the left side of the pitch for the Swedes, the 24 year old player will be looking to impressive any higher league clubs as he probably won't want to be playing Championship football next season as it could harm his Sweden career. Jonas Olsson will also feature most likely as a centre back option, the West Brom defender has had a good season with the baggies and his experience at back will be important. Going into the midfield obvious candidates here are Seb Larsson and Kim Kallstrom both talented midfielders, and Larsson a product of the Arsenal academy will most likely be the set piece man, the midfielder has a lethal free kick on him. Whilst Kallstrom will be in the middle of the park pulling strings for the Swedish midfield. Galatasaray midfielder/forward, Johan Elmander finds himself at Euro 2012 also, the versiatile Swedish man could play a midfield or a forward role, or even play behind Ibrahimovic setting plays through for the big Swedish striker. Elmander has netted 12 goals this season in Turkey and will be wanting to add now, to his international tally too. As said at the start here, I believe the Swedes will edge England out this time round and I predict them to slump in the final eight. Second place for Sweden

Player To Watch - Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Prediction - Last Eight

Ukraine 

Yarmolenko is dubbed the new 'Shevchenko' will he live
upto his name?

Co-hosts Ukraine kick off their Euro 2012 campaign on Monday against Sweden. Home advantage could well favour the Ukrainian's in their first ever major competition, although they are widely favoured to go out at the group stage, and I can see why, as player quality is few and far between. But the under-dogs tag never stopped the likes of Greece and Denmark firing their way to glory in years gone by. Hopefully the Ukraine fans will not live up to their tag names of recent weeks of 'racist mobs and thugs'. As it will be an embarassment to the nation and also to UEFA. Ukraine go to Euro 2012 with one win in three to their name. Which doesn't look promising for them I must admit. Probably one of the saddest things about the Ukraine squad and 'lost talent' on the international stage is Andriy Shevchenko, who is one of Ukraines most successful players and one of the highest capped with 107 caps, also netting 46 goals in the process too. He himself has admitted this will be his only shot of glory to win something with his home nation. A sad statement from a striker who has played at some of Europe's finest clubs in his history. Who knows what he could have won if he played for a bigger European side. He will hopefully want to bow out of his international career on a high, getting out of the group stages would probably be something he would settle for. Though with every older generation that retires and moves on, a new generation evolves and highly rated forward Andriy Yarmolenko is dubbed the new 'Shevchenko' and you can see why, in 84 appearances for Dynamo Kiev he has netted 30 times. The 22 year old forward will be relishing a chance to showcase his skills on a bigger stage, and I widely expect him at a bigger European club this summer if he does well. his international record isn't too bad either scoring seven goals in 20 games. Artem Milevskiy will me a target man option for Ukraine the big broad forward who usually plays as a second striker will win high balls in the air and hold the ball up for others to come into play. He has spent his entire career with Dinamo Kiev, scoring 51 goals in 152 appearances. The midfield or Ukraine looks very alien to some people, with the only notable names being Anatoliy Tymoshchuk, the centre midfielder who plays for Bayern Munich will probably be playing his last international tournament too at the age of 33. He will be the anchorman for Ukraine this competition and his experience will be needed. All in all I think Ukraine will struggle to get a win in the group and will come rock bottom as the other three nations in the group have much more quality than the co-hosts. Bottom of the pile for Ukraine.

Player To Watch -  Andriy Yarmolenko

Prediction - Group Stage (4th)


This now rounds off all my reviews on the group stage teams, and everyone at Euro 2012, apologies for the lateness of the final part. Thank you for reading and keep an eye out throughout the tournament for more write-ups on events in Ukraine/Poland. If you are out there now reading this, whoever you support have a enjoyable tournament, a safe one, and safe trip home too.

Euro 2012 Preview - Group C

Hello readers, many thanks for reading my blog so far on Euro 2012. I have wrote about groups A and B now its time to review group C, which involves Croatia, Italy, Republic of Ireland and Spain

Croatia 

Modric will be the key play maker for Croatia

Croatia find themselves in a tricky group for this tournament with Spain and Italy being the favourites to progress. Croatia are in decent form, coming into this competition with their past 2 friendlies ending in a draw and a victory. They will have to produce top drawer performances to test the Italians and Spanish, don't forget the Irish will put up a fair fight too. Croatia are a improving team in the world of football, putting England to shame and denying them a place in Euro 2008. Head coach for Croatia is Slaven Billic a former Croatian international himself, and has been chased by numerous clubs in the past few years as well, you can see why, with the job he has done in charge of usually a mediocre football side. They are ranked 8th in the world by FIFA, so they shouldn't be under-estimated. Key players for Croatia this summer will be Luka Modric who has had a good season with Spurs and is a creative outlet the Croatians can use to start their attacks from, he also can pass the ball very well, and has a mean shot on him as well, he will need to be closely watched by defenders. Spurs could well struggle to keep hold of him this summer if he impresses. Other players of note are Niko Kranjcar who has recently left Spurs to go sign for Dynamo Kiev. He is a poor mans Modric in my eyes, both are similar players and will drive the Croatian midfield forward. Evertons' Nikica Jelavic will be the firepower up front for them, and will have to be on form if they are to challenge the Spanish and the Italians for a place in the next round. Darijo Srna will add experience down the right side of the pitch the 30 year old will be the man putting the crosses in from the right most probably.


Player To Watch - Luka Modric

Prediction - 3rd (Group Stage)

Italy 

The skillful Giovinco will shine at
Euro 2012

Known for their defencive style of football and keeping teams shut out and frustrated the Italians head to Euro 2012. In a little bit of a worrying state, after getting turned over by Russia 3-0 on home soil. That's the only match preparation the Italians have had though as the proposed Luxembourg fixture got postponed. They open up their group game against Spain, probably best to get the hardest team over and done with first, rather than needing a result out of Spain to qualify. Italy have always possessed a very good squad, and are usually very well balanced too. The likes of Sebastian Giovinco will have to be watched closely as the creative man is very skillful on the ball and will be a constant danger, Andrea Pirlo will be the man in the middle of everything the experienced midfielder has had a fantastic season with Juventus and will be wanting to continue his good form here too, he has a venomous free kick and is a good long range shooter, he'll have to be watched carefully as he can change a game. Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini will be the key men at the back for the Italians both very experienced defenders and their long footballing history will come in good use if the team is under pressure or wants to grind out a result in the final minutes of a match. Gianluigi Buffon will be the number one choice for Italy, the world class keeper who has made 114 appearances for Italy could well be his final international competition as he is at the age of 34, who knows though. With Buffon between the sticks, the defence has a solid foundation to rely on and Buffon himself has had a fantastic season with Juventus. Onto the striking options now for Italy, and there is a lot of talent to chose from, hot headed Mario Balotelli will be in contention but the controversial forward will have to keep his temper in order or he could be sitting in the changing rooms more than he is on the pitch, Balotelli can be quality on his day, but his temper is his problem, he didn't help himself by coming out in the media a few days ago claiming 'he'll kill anyone who throws a banana at him'. Antonio Di Natale will be an important player too despite being 34 the experience of the forward will be important to the team if they need that crucial goal, the Udinese forward will probablly be playing in his last international competition. The Italians have a blend of youth and experience, but I think the older legs will start to show after the group stages and this is where they will fall this time around, the last eight.

Player To Watch - Sebastian Giovinco

Prediction - Last 8

Republic of Ireland 

Long will be a key forward for Ireland, he'll need
 his shooting boots on!

Having been robbed by the French in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup the Irish would have probably hoped to have met France in the group stages so some revenge could take place and rightly so. Fast forward a few years and the Irish find themselves in a real tough group and one I think they will end up bottom of as well sadly, as I like the Irish team, but I don't think they posses the quality of the other three teams. They will put up a good fight, but their resistance will eventually be broken down as that final bit of quality shines through. Ireland come into the Euros with a win and a draw in their friendlies, and keeping two clean sheets in the process, which must be encouraging signs for the manager, fans and players. Key men for the Irish who stand out for me are, Shay Given, the forever present shot stopper is still one of the finest in the Premiership and will be the main man between the sticks for the Irish the experienced keeper has played in several big tournaments for Ireland and will feature here too. Defensively the Irish look fragile, yet they have experience in Richard Dunne and John O'Shea at back which will be important to them, another player to keep an eye on is Sean St Ledger who will be wanting to make an impact. The midfield is interesting Stoke's Glenn Whelan will feature the former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder has been a consistent performer for Stoke since moving a few seasons ago and will be relishing a chance to showcase himself on a big stage, Whelan has a very powerful shot and defenders will need to close him down. Aiden McGready is a midfielder I rate highly too, the former Celtic man who now plays for Spartak Moscow is versatile as he can play down the wing or up front, he'll be looking at making runs down the wing or if he plays up front be looking at poaching some goals for the Irish. The forwards to look at are Shane Long and Kevin Doyle, former Reading team mates and also have had years of experience in the top flight, Long is a player I rate highly having a decent season with West Brom. Robbie Keane is also worth a shout, the experienced Irish forward will be looking at bagging some goals but he isn't as good as he was a few years ago and his involvement may be not as great as the other forwards in the squad. Jonathan Walters adds some strength to the forward line, the Stoke hit man has done OK this season for Stoke and will be wanting to push his way into the side at the Euros.

Player To Watch - Shane Long
  
Prediction  4th (Group Stage)

Spain 

Llorente has been on fire for Bilbao this season
will he continue this in a Spain shirt?

Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010 winners Spain head to Euro 2012 as favourites to retain the crown, and with the squad they have, you can see why people are tipping them to win again. No side though has defended the European title, can they be the first, I don't see why not, the depth and quality the squad has is unreal, they virtually have two squads to pick from, and both would play most teams off the park, which is a huge asset for the manager. They come to the Euros in good form, winning all three of their friendlies scoring seven goals and conceding just the one. I predict them to win this group with ease with the only threat being Italy. But lets not get carried away, will all this expectation pile up and make them falter, only time will tell. I am not sure where to start with the 'key players' for Spain as they quality of the squad is so high its hard to choose, I will pick out a few players who I regard as key, I do understand peoples views may differ but I'll have a review on Spain which will be as long as a novel if I don't narrow this down!. The obvious man between the sticks will be Iker Casillas who has been forever present there for many years collecting 131 caps since his debut in 2000. But If injury strikes Casillas, Spain can rely on either Victor Valdes or Pepe Reina to go between the sticks. Defensive wise Spain have the solid names of Sergio Ramos and Gerad Pique in their ranks who will be tough to beat, Pique is a key man from set pieces, it will be interesting to see how Spain cope without Carlos Puyol at the back though. The midfield looks very dangerous and highly creative with players such as David Silva featuring the Man City man has had an excellent season at the Etihad and would love to top off his season with another medal, his creativity and trickery will be crucial, he can also create chances for himself which makes him even more a threat. Andres Iniesta highly regarded as one of the worlds best players at the moment has had a good season with Barcelona despite losing out on the La Liga title and the Champions League this season, again another creative midfield mind will be looking to get forward as much as possible, his runs and intelligence on the pitch is amazing and will be playing a part if Spain are to be successful again and continue their world domination, other key midfielders include Xavi is another key figure who will feature in the centre of the park for Spain, the midfield man is another product of Barcelona, the experienced midfielder is tireless and has a fantastic pass on him which can pick anyone out on the pitch, this experience will be important for Spain. Xabi Alonso and Cesc Fabregas who will be fighting it out for a place in the Spanish side. Moving onto the striking options, with David Villa ruled out through injury, Spain still have several world class forwards to chose from. One of Europes hottest properties at the moment, Fernando Llorente who has been on fire for Ahletic Bilbao this season will be a key figure in this Spain squad, as will Fernando Torres who hasn't had the best of seasons for Chelsea, but some late season form has kicked in and he's looking more likely to hit the net now, than miss it. Juan Mata will be looking at being the creative forward for Spain, he also has had a decent season for Chelsea. All in all Spain I believe should reach the final with the only test being in the Semi Finals against Holland (if my predictions plan out). But I think come the final the Germans who, I predict will win, will edge them out and take the crown out of Spain's hands

Player To Watch - Fernando Llorente

Prediction - Euro 2012 Runners Up


This concludes part 3 of 4 of my preview to Euro 2012 the final preview will be up and online tomorrow when I get chance, hope you have enjoyed reading!

Euro 2012 Preview - Group B

Hello readers, here is the next instalment of my Euro 2012 previews, this article previews group b, which involves, Denmark, Germany, Holland and Portugal, a group which the Germans and Dutch will be hot favourites to progress to the last eight.

Denmark 

Erikson is a young up coming Danish prospect and is
one to watch this summer

Euro 1992 winners Denmark come to Euro 2012 in a tough group, and they will be expected to fall at this stage, this time around as the Germans and Dutch will probably be too much of a powerful force to deal with. But this could work in their favour as expectation will be less due to the tough nature of the group, but they will be expected to put up a fight at the same time and not just roll over. In the warm up fixtures to this game, the Danes beat Australia 2-0, a few days later they lost 3-1 at the hands of Brazil. Friendlies are only warm up games though, we'll see how much steel the Danes have when the football fever hits Poland and Ukraine in a few days time. The Danish player to look out for this competition is, Ajax's Christian Eriksen, the 20 year old attacking midfielder is a highly rated player in Holland, he'll be the man pushing the midfield engine forward and creating chances for the forwards. If he puts a good performance in this tournament, the European giants may come calling for his signature. Other players of note will be, Nicklas Bendtner who will be the main man up front for the Danes and will need to be on form if the Danes want to qualify for the last 8. Dan Agger will be making sure the Danish defence is in order the Liverpool defender has made 21 appearances this season and his long range shooting ability is something to take note of. The Danes have talented players but I can only see them crashing out at the group stages, but I am sure they will be at the 2014 World Cup looking hungry as ever, the class of this group is too much.


Player To Watch - Christian Erikson

Prediction - Group Stage (4th)

 Germany 

Mario Gomez has been on form for Bayern Munich this
season and will be expected to continue it for Germany

Germany, one of the tournaments favourites to win the Euro's and my personal prediction for the winners also boast a squad of highly talented players and will fight it out with the Dutch for top spot in the group. The Germans boast a wide range of highly talented players, such as, Mario Gomez who has been on top form with Bayern Munich this season, Lukas Podolski will also need his shooting boots this tournament too, The Germans have a lot of young attack minded players, Mario Gotze is an exciting prospect the Dortmund attacking midfielder and winger will be looking to showcase his talents this tournament at the young age of 20. Andre Schurrle is also another player to look out for in the German attack, the 21 year old forward is highly rated at Bayer Leverkusen. The German midfield looks solid with a sea of talent to chose from, Mesut Ozil, Toni Kroos, Sami Khedira to choose from along with Bastian Schweinsteiger who has a powerful shot and will be trying long range efforts from time to time in games. The Germany defence looks strong again, with such names as Phillip Lahm, Holger Badstuber, Mats Hummels, will be making sure the German defence is tough to break down. The goalkeeper choice is fairly straight forward with the Bayern Munich stopper Manuel Neuer being first choice, one of the worlds best keepers at the moment, and is also a known penalty taker, which is unusual for a goal keeper. The Germans have so much talent at hand its fantastic, I am looking forward to watching them, the best thing is also, this is young talent, and the Germans will be a force in years to come with this very exciting squad.

Player To Watch - Mario Gomez

Prediction - Euro 2012 Winners

Holland 

Van Persie has been crucial to Arsenal this season
and now will be crucial to the Dutch if they are
to win Euro 2012

The Dutch, are again a strong force for Euro 2012 and will find themselves fighting with the Germans for the top spot of the group, I think they will be runners up to the Germans in 'Group B' though. The Dutch display a lot of attacking power with the inform Arsenal forward Robin Van Persie looking to make his mark again on the big stage, Arjen Robben will be a key player for the Dutch also, the highly creative player will be pulling the strings for the Dutch and creating chances, Robbens quality is that not only he can create chances for others, but he creates so many chances for himself with his dribbling ability defenders will have to be on top guard for the 90 minutes against his talent. Klaas Jan Huntleaar will be another player to keep an eye on, the proflific forward has bagged 31 goals in 51 games for Holland and will surely add to that tally again. The Dutch have a very expereinced man in Mark Van Bommel , the 35 year old has had a fantastic career, and is a tough midfield man and will add steel to the Dutch midfield if he plays. Spurs player Rafael Van Der Vaart will be looking to make an impact in Poland/Ukraine also, he has had a good season at Spurs and will look to continue his form again here, he's an attack minded midfielder and will be a threat if left on the ball. Wesley Sneijder will be a crucial player again for the Dutch another attack minded player who plays for Inter, heavily linked away with a move from the San Siro this season, if he puts a good shift in that will add a few more million to his price tag for the clubs chasing him. He'll be first choice in the squad no doubt and will be wanting to try secure Holland this years Euros. The Dutch defence looks fairly good, with Ron Vlaar and John Heitinga looking to keep the attackers at bay. The Dutch also have a good selection of keepers, but Maarten Sketelenburg gets the nod from me for the number one jersey. Tim Krul has had a very impressive season for Newcastle and I think he'll become Dutch number one in a few years, and also in contention is Swansea's keeper Michel Vorm, who in my opinion has been the signing of the season in the Premier League this season, a highly under-rated keeper. The Dutch have the quality to win the competition but I think will fall at the Semi-Final stage this time round.

Player To Watch - Robin Van Persie 

Prediction - Semi-Finalists 

Portugal 

Ronaldo is a world class player, who has bags of ability
and will be looking to showcase this once more in
 Poland/Ukraine

The Portuguese head to Euro 2012 in a very tough group and disappointed in their friendly matches not lighting up the world at all, and expectation is they will fail, just hopefully not embarrass the nation in the process, but I think they have enough quality to avoid being the bottom team in the group but the Portugal v Denmark game will be the one which decides who will finish bottom of the pile, as I can't see either beating or taking points from the Germans or the Dutch. Despite their poor form the Portuguese have a few talented players such as, world class attacking man, Christiano Ronaldo who will be the key player if the Portuguese have any hope of going through the group stages of the Euros. Other interesting players to look at  Joao Moutinho who is a highly talented midfielder in my eyes, and will look to attack from midfield where possible, Ricardo Quaresma is a talented winger and will probably be down one of the wings along with Ronaldo putting crosses into the box and making attacking runs at the fullbacks, my final midfield man watch will be for Miguel Veloso, he will be likely the man who adds that bit of strength and grit to the midfield, the former Sporting man is a talented midfielder of the Portuguese line-up. The Portuguese seem to have alot of talented midfielders but lack in other areas of the field. The key striker I feel for them this time round is Helder Postiga. Pepe is the big name in defence for the Portuguse and will be the man who will be crucial in stopping the attacking waves of the Dutch and the Germans, but I think they will prove too much for the Real Madrid man. The Portuguese have just enough talent to pip the Danes and take 3rd spot, still going home early, but least not having the mark of coming last to their names.


Player To Watch - Christiano Ronaldo


Prediction - Group Stages (3rd)  


This completes part 2 of 4 of my previews of Euro 2012, coming tomorrow is my review of group C. Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed. 

Euro 2012 Preview - Group A

Hello readers, long time since I wrote on here, hope you are all well, with Euro 2012 just days away I will be writing articles upcoming and during the tournament, I will start by doing group by group previews, starting off with group A, which features, the hosts Poland, Greece, Czech Republic and Russia.

Poland

Lewandowski will be a key player for Poland

The co-hosts to Euro 2012 along with the Ukraine already booked their place in Euro 2012 years ago. Poland are still a developing nation in football terms, but have come a long way in recent years to being 'noticed' on the football stage, boasting players such as Robert Lewandowski, Wojciech Szczesny and Jakub Blaszczykowlski who all play for high ranking clubs in Europe. The poles are in a medicore group with Russia being the only real threat, the Greeks, Czechs and Poles will be fighting it out for the other spot in my opinion to qualify for the last 8. Home advantage may just sway the Poles way as the Czechs are not as much of a force as they used to be, and the Greeks are again mediocre.

Player To Watch - Robert Lewandowski

Prediction - Last 8.

Greece

Ninis will be pulling the strings in the Greek midfield

The Euro 2004 winners haven't made much of a mark on the world stage since that glorious night in Portugal 8 years ago. The Greeks find themselves as I said about Poland in a mediocre group with the Czechs, Poles and Greeks all in an equal level in terms of ability. It'll be an interesting group as anything can happen, interesting Greek players who will have to be on good form are, Sotiris Ninis mainly, in my opinion, the young midfielder will be pulling the strings in the Greek midfield, the Greeks have a older squad full of experienced players, some who played that night in 2004 still play there such as Giorgos Karagounis who also scored that night in the 2-1 win over Portugal, will the experience see them through? or will the older legs prove to be the stumbling block for Greece this time round?. I think they'll be heading home early from Euro 2012

Player To Watch - Sotiris Ninis

Prediction - Group Stage (4th)

Russia 

Zhirkov's experience will be important as the winger will
be putting crosses into the box to create chances

Group favourites as far as I am concerned and a tough team to beat, the Russian's will be going into Euro 2012 expecting a decent run and certainly to get out of the group stages, the draw has favoured them well in my opinion and they should win with ease, but as the saying goes, there are no easy games in international football. Boasting such names as Yuri Zhirkov, Igor Akinfeev, Andrei Arshavin, Aleksandr Kerzhakov, and Roman Pavlyuchenko. The Russians have big names and experience in the side which should be enough to see them through the group stages. But with potential ties against teams such as German and Holland in the knockout stages, I can't see their Euro dream going much further than the last eight.

Player To Watch - Yuri Zhirkov

Prediction - Last 8

Czech Republic

Cech will be keeping the sticks well gaurded and will be
important if the Czechs want to go to the last 8

In recent years the Czechs have gone down hill in football terms in my opinion, to being a tough side, to being a mediocre side, after the likes of Jan Koller and Pavel Nedved hung their boots up, the Czechs still have talented players but the stand out players have dropped. My picks of the key players here are, Petr Cech and Tomas Rosicky. Striker Milan Baros will need to be on top form this tournament too, his international record is impressive with 48 goals from 93 appearances. But I think the Czechs will just lose out on qualifying and will be pipped by the Poles.

Player To Watch - Petr Cech

Prediction - Group Stage (3rd)



Hope you have enjoyed this first instalment on my Euro 2012 preview, I will be reviewing group B on Tuesday.

Who Will Be The Next England Manager?

The England managers job is the hardest job in football, having to work with a side of talented individuals who cannot play as part of a team. The over-expectation of fans across the country when a major tournament comes along is enough to put anyone off the role, before you even mention the media frenzy the tabloids get into every time we qualify for a competition, building up false hope inside of us all, to witness our beloved nation fall at the quarter final stage of the competition, usually on penalties!.

A string of managers have tried to bring glory back to England and all have failed, perhaps we should look deeper into the problem of our lack of trophies as a nation and ask ourselves a question of, 'Are we good enough?'. A bitter pill for a lot of English fans to swallow, but the simple fact is. We are not good enough to win a major competition. Top drawer manager such as Fabio Capello and Sven-Göran Eriksson have tried, these managers have won hosts of major honours all over Europe, yet could not fix the English side. Sometimes its not the manager its the players who are simply not good enough. With the post of the England job open again, a few managers have already ruled themselves out of any speculation, Alan Pardew and Arsne Wenger have publicly announced they are not interested. In this post I will go through a few managers who may be able to do a good job as England's gaffer.

Peoples choice, medias choice and likely the FA's choice
Harry Redknapp has done a fantastic job at Spurs

Harry Redknapp 
The publics' choice and some of the England players choice and most likely the FA's number one target, there is no doubt Redknapp could do the job, hes had years of experience in top flight football and turned mid-table Premiership sides into respectable sides, managing to do a splendid job at Portsmouth and West Ham with several mid-table finishes with both clubs and even guiding The Hammers to a near top four finish one season. His latest work has set the world alight at White Hart Lane, after the Juande Ramos era Spurs looked desperate for change, and Harry brought that, bringing them from the foot of the table to mid-table in his first stint in charge, and ever since the only way has been up for Spurs, competing in Europe and being a solid challenger for top four spots, and even 'breaking' the top four gang that usually included, Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. This season Spurs lay 3rd in the league with a very outside shot of a title challenge, will Harry leave this close to the end of the season, it remains to be seen. He has stayed low-key on the speculation in recent interviews and says he focusing on Spurs at the moment.

England Job Rating: 9/10 

Four Four Fucking Two - Mike Basset, managed to get
England to a major competition unlike Maclaren

Mike Bassett

A true believer in the 'four-four-fucking-two' formation. Having starred as England manger in the hit movie 'Mike Bassett England Manager'. His previous experiences in football include a 'Mr Clutch Cup' win with Norwich City. Which, dazzled the FA and he was made manager. Having the tactical genius to rely on Luxembourg to send them to the World Cup was a shrewd move by Basset and it paid out dividends as England went to the World Cup thanks to a Car Dealership owners late goal. Although his World Cup campaign was a disaster of losing 'four nil to those fucking mexicans' and his infamous dressing room outbursts, Basset has the passion for the job, but the tactical ability lacks a little, but hes still one up on Steve Maclaren, least he qualified for a major championship.

England Job Rating: 2/10

Brendan Rodgers 

Rodgers has done a fantastic job at Swansea, but is
still young and may lack experience for the job

Back to reality now.. Brendan Rodgers I see as another candidate, very much an outsider, and lacks the experience, but he is one manager to keep an eye on, he has transformed Swansea in the past few seasons, recently sending them back to the top flight for the first time in three decades, and so far keeping Swansea at a solid mid table position. His style of football would please England supporters as he plays quick paced passing and attacking football, he also has several English players at his disposal, with the likes of Scott Sinclair and Danny Graham, who he may get the best out of if he ever got selected and they got chosen for the team. At the moment Rodgers is still a young manager and with him being Northern Irish this could upset a few passionate English supporters, who want the boss to be 'English'. But keep eyes on this man, he is going to win great things for years to come with his style of football and play. At this moment in his career I don't think he will be considered and having just signed a new deal with The Swans, he doesn't look like he'll be going anywhere soon

England Manager Rating: 5/10

Mourinho would be a top candidate for the role but the
FA want an English manager

Jose Mourinho 
The outspoken Portuguese manager is quickly becoming unpopular with fans and the board at Madrid for his outspoken ways, and rumour has it, both want to part from each other as soon as possible. He again would be a popular choice amongst fans even though he may not be English, he has won things all over Europe and knows the English game very well, his style of football would suit the English game and would be a good manager to work under as he can speak very good English, his communication skills are fantastic, and he always wants a challenge, at the moment the biggest challenge in football is to get England to win something, this could be a nice lure for him, but with the FA insisting they want a British manager next, his chances seem slim, although in my eyes I'd be pleased to have him as manager.

England Manager Rating: 9/10 

Stuart 'Phycho' Pearce 

Pearce already has experience on the international stage

Current England Under 21s' manager Stu Pearce perhaps may not be a manager to over look, first off he is English, and has worked in the international roles before. His track record with the Under 21's may not be great but he has the experience in managing at international level in some aspect. For me as a short term plug hes the best man for the job, longer term I'm not too sure about. His lack of trophies and success with the younger three lions will be a mark on his CV, and probably wouldn't be England fans first choice. Watch this space on Pearce, he has been made temporary manager for the Holland game, a good performance and a win may boost his chances and may be a cheaper option for the FA as compensation would have to be paid to an in work manager, though Pearce and just slot right into position with nothing being paid

England Manager Rating: 6/10

 
 

The Future Is Blue And White

 For many seasons, Sheffield Wednesday supporters have witnessed their team decline, gone of the days of Chris Waddle thunder bolting a free kick in at Wembley stadium against Sheffield United in the famous FA Cup semi final that fine afternoon. Fast forward around 20 years. Sheffield Wednesday lay in the third tier of English football after dropping from the Premier Division in 2000. Since the relegation the club has endured a turbulent time on and off the pitch with little money available for club for over a decade, and having to buy second rate players on frees, loans or for nominal fees. This period of darkness for Sheffield Wednesday fans has also seen their team slip into the third tier of English football twice.


Since the drop from The Premier Division, the best finish Sheffield Wednesday have managed was a solid 9th placed finish in the 2006/2007 season. This for many fans of the club seemed like the club was moving in the direction once more, but the following season saw them finish 16th, normal service resumes at Hillsborough. The following season saw them rise to 12th. The 2009/2010 season was to be The Owls' last in the Championship as they was relegated on the final day of the season at Hillsborough in a thrilling 2-2 draw, a cracking game for the neutral, but a heart breaking one for Sheffield Wednesday fans, when the referee blew his whistle and confirmed the relegation of The Owls for the second time in a decade, Hillsborough dipped into silence, the only noise being heard was from the West Stand where Crystal Palace fans celebrated their survival. A pin could have been heard drop on The Kop. To some Sheffield Wednesday fans, the general feeling is, that is the end. The administrators would be brought in and the club would be put out of its misery after years of fighting off field issues. Tears all around Hillsborough were understandable, the electric atmosphere at the start of the match all the way through until that whistle went, I have never seen Hillsborough so alive, but then drop into such silence. I myself, had to try hold back a tear or two.

Tears around Hillsborough after the 2nd relegation
but, has this relegation been good for the club long term?

After the heartbreak of the previous season, The Owls' begin their next stint in League 1, with a home tie against Dagenham and Redbridge. This season had high expectations of all Sheffield Wednesday fans, after players such as Gary Teale and Clinton Morrison were signed up by then manager Alan Irvine. These players struggled to perform for the side, and what looked to be a promising start to the season suddenly fell into chaos. The club was on the brink of ending, the HMRC wanted their money, and the club was running on borderline insolvency. An 11th hour deal gave Sheffield Wednesday a lifeline, and the judge allowed more time for the deal to be pushed through, the sharks were circling around the troubled club. The club managed to starve off administration and Milan Mandaric was named new chairman of the club. He wasted no time in wiring funds to Irvine to sign players, quite possibly the best signing of the bunch was Gary Madine.

Results didn't improve and Mandaric put Irvine out of his misery after a 5-3 defeat to Peterborough at London Road. Gary Megson was drafted in, and things stagnated for the rest of the season, slight improvements were seen on the pitch, but in light of events over the season it could have been so much worse, the docking of the 10 points could have potentially had catastrophic events on the club, quite possibly consigning them to League 2. Thankfully this was not the case and the club bowed out in a very disappointing 15th place.

O'Grady cost Sheff Wed around 350k from Rochdale

Over the summer Megson has drafted in players such as Chris O'Grady, Chris Lines, Jose Semedo, Ryan Lowe who have all added quality to the side, which was much needed. The loan signing of Ben Marshall was a revelation at the club, and he will always be remembered by the faithful at S6. The skillful winger has a bright future ahead of him, but his future at the moment looks unclear. This current season has a great vibe about it, the squad want to play for the club, the fans are going to games with a smile on their face again. Megson has created a fantastic unity at the club, and managed to turn Hillsborough into a fortress to an extent with the club only losing once this season. Away, The Owls' can look shaky, but still can turn out solid results, a 2-0 win away to Preston and a more recent 3-1 win to Scunthorpe shows how far this club has come in the past 12 months alone.

Wednesday have a fantastic fan base, especially away

This is the big chance the club has of making its mark again in English football, a new era has been born at S6, the first challenge is to get the club fighting back in the Championship, somewhere, where it at the very least belongs, but its true home is The Premier League. Sheffield Wednesday is still acknowledged by many fans as a 'big club'. The fan base is fantastic, and a promotion from this division would be a great gift to the fans who have had to endure seasons of pain and tears and uncertainty of their club. The players have a fantastic bond with each other and are willing to fight to the end. This is a fantastic foundation to work on, and I hope this continues to happen at Hillsborough, as one day this fantastic club, brimming with history and passion returns to where it actually belongs.

The 'not' so beautiful game

Darlington look set to the the latest football sob story

In a day where, Inter Milan offer a sum of 21 million pounds for Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez, and later on in the day, the sad news that Darlington FC edge closer to the end, you couldn't ask for things to be put into perspective more. All of Darlingtons first team players and manager had their contracts terminated today by the administrators of the club. Whilst the top clubs in europe hurl chunks of eye watering money about which only sides in the lower leagues can dream of. Something a little wrong there?... I think so.

Darlington are another casulaty of the football world as they follow the likes of Chester, Kings Lynn and so forth into a 're-birth'. Hundreds of years of history wiped off, in a single pen stroke of the tax man. You could say, these clubs should not spend beyond their means, which some would say is a fair argument. But when other clubs are spending money around you, which they, themselves do not have. You need to spend to keep up with them, otherwise you will be left behind and effectivley bullied by other sides in the same league.

Drawing an example up with Sheffield Wednesday, when they were the cash strapped club they were, I feel we was bullied in the league because of our lack of funds, as in we couldn't buy the best players, or we got out bid by other teams for players who offered them higher salaries. So in actual fact when rivals start spending money, you are forced into the same posistion.

'The Darlington Arena' One of many factors that got
Darlington into financial bother

But the sickening truth is, the huge gap in the football ocean is huge, the FA should be doing more to combat this and ensure responsible spending, football clubs will continue to fall under the current status quo. When you read stories of players earning 250k a week, and getting 60 million pound transfers, and you have a club who cannot rub two pennies together, really does say everything that is wrong in football. The commercialisation of the game has not helped either, by encouraging clubs to spend big to showcase the biggest league in the world.

Money has taken the heart and soul out of football, the inch perfect bowl stadiums which have no feel of home are constantly being constructed. Whilst these are nice to the eye, the millions spent on these massive stadiums can endager the clubs stability, just one of the factors Darlington have suffered financially.

Going to the match to stand in a rain swept terrace and to look at the odd dodgey stand which was smaller than all the others, gave a British football ground the feeling of 'home'. Singing your heart out for 90 minutes whilst getting piss wet through gave that sense of togetherness, you only see in the lower leagues now. I would rather go to an original old ground, than a 'dome' any day. As they all look the same. Pride Park and The Riverside look exactly alike. Wheres the feeling of home there?. A football stadium is supposed to be unique a marker, that this is our home, and nothing can take that away.

The million dollor question really is, how do we stop teams from going under again?, there are a few ways of doing this, you cannot 100% stop a team from meltdown, but there are ways to prevent the problem as much as possible...

Wage Caps and Transfer Caps
This would be the easiest to implent, and something which everyone would agree is a fair yard stick, is to set league, wage and transfer caps against clubs, so they are suitable for the said divison they are in, but keeps them safe from over spending. This brings a nice balence to the divisons. Sides which are relegated whom may have higher wage bills in a lower league, won't be able to sign new players until they re-structure the wage bill, this would be a way to ensure an advantage is short-lived.

Propper 'fit for purpose' checks

Plymouth fans state their anger at their clubs decline

The FA has made a big noise about this issue, they have tried to implent this, but so far it seems to be failing, a bigger in depth look into prospective buyers history and actual wealth would help a lot. This will stop businessmen taking on something they can not financially sustain.

'Football Insurance' 
Now, this is an idea I have thought about, basically, every football club from, the Premier Divison to League Two, would pay a certain amount of money in every season, contributions are subject to the clubs wealth and league, so a Premier Divison club would pay a higher amount than a League Two club. Basically acting as a safety net for ALL clubs who get into financial problems. You could say its an IMF of football. This money is paid out to clubs who are struggling to help them pay off debts, or some of the debt. But then the club has to pay that 'loan' back, over an agreed amount of time when they manage to get back on their feet. This alone would save many clubs, think how much a season you could collect, 2-3 million perhaps? if all clubs agreed to pay a contribution?. Its a bizzare idea. But clubs would argue why should they pay for other clubs financial problems...

No matter what you suggest, something needs to be done to stop clubs falling into administration, fans are following their team up and down the country every Saturday, following the team they love, to wake up one morning and find out they have been sat on a huge amount of debt, and are about to be liquidated in a court room.

Money is killing the beautiful game.

Sheffield Wednesday - Mid Season Review

Megson has created a new era at Hillsborough

It is little over 12 months ago now, since Sheffield Wednesday found themselves in deep trouble financially, and at the risk of administration, after years of abuse of the football clubs. finances. Since the clubs' drop from the riches of the Premier Division in 2000 the club has suffered financial problems which has hampered their journey back to the promised land of the Premiership. In the past 12 seasons the club has endured slipping to League One twice, and the second time of slipping down the club struggled to come back, after finishing in a lower mid-table position last season.

Fast forward around a year or so, and the club sits 3rd in League One, with new owner Milan Manderic celebrating his years anniversary at the club, hailed as a hero to some Owls fans for saving them at the death. Who knows where the club would be now if the judge that day decided to put the club out of its misery and let them at the mercy of the administrators. Gary Megson was drafted in mid way through last season, and now he has had a full summer of re-shaping his team. The club looks more on the up than ever, a new buzzing feeling is around Hillsborough, something that fans haven't been able to do for a while.

'You'll never get past Semedo'
Jose Semedo has been a key player for The Owls

Signings such as Jose Semedo, David Prutton, Danny Batth and Ben Marshall all coming in (the latter two on loan) The club recorded 3 points at home against Rochdale on the first day of the season, in which The Owls won 2-0 and David Prutton netting his first goal for the club, a stunning goal in front of the kop sent The Wednesday into raptures. Then the season, especially away took a sour turn, with defeats to Bury and Stevenage and such hampering the teams morale. With calls of 'Megson Out' and fans walking out 20 minutes into the away trip to Stevenage, frustration was high as fans don't want another season in the third tier of English football, a sad mark for a club, rich in football history.

But, every cloud has a silver lining, and the turning point of our season came after the 5-1 defeat to Stevenage, since then, The Owls have lost 2 games in 16, and are also unbeaten at Hillsborough this season in all competitions. Having only dropped points to Brentford (0-0) and Huddersfield (4-4). The club are also into the 3rd round of the FA Cup where they play West Ham United, after defeating Morecambe and Aldershot respectively.

A new unity at Sheff Wed is clear to see

A new sense of fight is also at the club, something which wasn't seen much last season, The Steel City Derby is a fine example of fight, the squad didn't give in until the last minute of the game, and got their just reward of a 2-2 draw and Gary Madine writing his name into Sheffield Wednesday folklore with his goal in the last few minutes. The Huddersfield game could be seen as the team showing fight, as the side went 2-0 down to two Jordan Rhodes goals the side fought back and went 4-2 up at one point, to only throw it away in the literally last minute of stoppage time.

The club has had problems defensively of late, leaking six goals in the last two games, two of the goals coming in the last minute of matches. Six points which should have been claimed didn't. January poses a tough month for Sheffield Wednesday, with trips to Scunthorpe, which seems to be a bogey ground for the club, and a tricky test at MK Dons in the mix too, with a huge clash against Charlton at Hillsborough. January will be a big month, but the league won't look certain for any club until start of April to Mid April. The league its self is so close, a few bad results and your out of the play-offs, a few good ones and your in with a shot of promotion.

To say where the club has come from in the past 12 months. The re-building work has been amazing a huge tribute has to be made to the board the new owners, the supporters for backing the team, our loyal fan base has kept this club running for years, without the fan support we have had, this club would be in a lot worse of a state than it was.

So far so good in my opinion for this season, lets hope the club can sort this little blip of form out against Preston on New Year's Eve at Deepdale and get three crucial points. The season is far from over, but if we continue like we are doing, we will be in the mix come May. Our return to the promised land continues until then, but our time will come, the club is upon a new era, and exciting and happy times will soon be back at S6.

Хвала Milan (Thanks Milan) Sheff Wed fans banner
dedicated for Milan Mandaric

One Gary Speed

As you was all tucking into the traditional Sunday roast of a cold winter November day, none of you would have been expecting to witness on the news, or to receive messages from friends, that Gary Speed had passed away, I sure wasn't watching the news at dinner time, I had to re-read twice and listen twice as the reporter broke the news of the former Premiership stars death. In an even more shocking turn of events an hour or so later, grim details came out that he took his own life. Why he did this, is still unclear, so I won't speculate about the subject.

The news rocked the football world, with people feeling, numb, cold, shocked, by the news. The news came just hours before Swansea were set to play Aston Villa at the Liberty Stadium, the tribute which was paid, was very moving, a standing ovation, for one of Wales' best players, and potentially could have been one of the greatest managers too, as Speed was looking at turning the Welsh woes to a thing of the past, with recent wins over, Switzerland, Montenegro and Norway.

'One Gary Speed' rang round the ground that Sunday afternoon in Swansea, and other clubs followed suit as and when their games suited, Shay Given, a close friend of Speed, was tearful before the sides kicked off for the game, which ended in a 0-0 draw. Understandably, the players minds would have been elsewhere that day.

Tributes poured in from all over the football world, and general public, most people commented with the same opinions and thoughts of him, as a 'good bloke' 'geniune person' 'father figure in football'. Robbie Savage, a close friend of Speeds, is tearful as he gives an interview live on the BBC shortly after his death is announced

Bolton was one of the clubs Speed played
for during his career

Gary Speed's former clubs included, Leeds United, Bolton Wanderers, Everton, Newcastle United, and Sheffield United, he was the first player to have surpassed 500 Premier League appearances, in his club career he scored 103 goals from 677 appearances. He is also Wales most capped outfield player with 85 caps, and 7 goals to go with this. He also was skipper at every club he has been at, a true inspirational leader it goes to say.

Quotes, came in around the clock for Speed, as news broke of his death,

"I was given the tragic news this morning. To say I am devastated is an understatement."- Aaron Ramsey

"Gary was a magnificent person, bright, fun and a wonderful family man - he lit up every room he walked into. I am proud to have been his friend and will miss him dreadfully." - Alan Sheaer

"He was an amazing and talented player, one who had a glittering career, and he had just started a great career in management.- David Beckham

Speed's legacy on the pitch and how to behave away from the pitch will be one to hold up to youngsters in the future, as Speed never got himself into bother, he also made time for other people, a true gent on an off the field of play, he shyed away from the media spot light, and lived a very private and average life, unlike certain players of today. He never was in the press for bad things. A true role model.

'One Gary Speed'

To round off this tribute to Speed, I will leave below a couple of videos, of fan tributes to the late, great, former Premiership football player, the football world has lost, a great potential manager, but the world has lost, a great gentleman.

He leaves behind a wife and two children.

RIP Gary Speed 8th September 1969 - 27th November 2011

Gone... But not forgotten