The best football Manager in the world

A few decades ago, Nottingham Forest F.C. in the English Football League, then known as the Super League, yo-yo-ed between the top tier football and the First Division under Brian Clough. We all admired the art of his pottery skills to destroy a club and make it again. The same still happens in South Africa with Jomo Sono's Jomo Cosmos F.C. The motivation of both was different.

When one has top notch players, a massive budget top state of the art facilities at their disposal, the task of winning the championship or trophies is so much easier. There cannot be a better scenario to achieve much.

However, with below average players and a 'get by' budget, it is the ultimate task to save a team from relegation. Starting with low wages and stinking attitude of these players, man-management skills get challenged to the maximum and asking for a performance is like squeezing water from a stone.

 Most celebrated managers, Zinedine Zidane, Luiz Enrique, Pep Guardiola, Arsene Wenger, Antonio Conte, Carlo Ancelotti, just to name a few, have more than they need at their disposal and (will) hop from one bed of roses to the next. Then, at the other end of the line, there is that endless list of managers scrounging for finances and results, yet they are not recognised.

The 'top managers' success are seasonal, depending on who got the best players and who got a better wage bill for their top earners. With this in mind, there has been a list of perennial saviors in the English Premier League, among them, Tony Pulis and Harry Redknapp, but the ultimate and supreme manager of all time, is Sam Allardyce.

The Big Sam has done everything from pulling a team from the Championship to saving teams from sinking. 

Is there any manager elsewhere with a better record.

Harry's QPR take Chelsea to the cleaners.

Unlike many charismatic managers, Harry Redknapp has a special place in my heart, with or without reason. He is one man who took my sympathy from Arsenal to Tottenham Hotspur. He has not many fans and believe me he does not care.

The sweet 0-1 win over Chelsea at Stanford Bridge may count for nothing at the end of the season, but that was an extra further among plenty on the man's cap. Those struggling to love the man always talked about his backroom stuff. A good back has good backing vocalists and management stuff.

Harry had good times at Portsmouth and even West Ham United before then. His best years were at Spurs recently until he lost focus on the possibility of coaching England. Then, he appeared to hold almost two jobs at the same time and in the blink of an eye, he was jobless.

He may have the best years at Queens Park Rangers as he tries to resurrect what Africans would call a dead donkey. Now matter how low Rangers will finish under his command, if they survive the chop, this should be the fattest worm of his early mornings.

It will be hard to judge how difficult his task is at the end of the season, no matter the log standings. This will be due to the effect of the result against Chelsea. That victory may open doors for the team in a way that may make their 3 point collections casual. If a team needs motivation, there is no better opportunity than beating European champions, the Chelsea of Roman Abramovich of Stanford Bridge, London.

To many teams, it would be expected, even now by some, that the win was just a one night stand by QPR, by Harry does not do one night stands. He is in it to make babies. There is no doubt that there was extra motivation for the league anchors.

They needed points more than anyone in the Premiership. Shaun Wright-Phillips is an ex-Chelsea player and had, maybe not exactly a point to prove, but, some fond memories of his former home and it became an emotional home-coming. Chelsea rested their talismatic midfield orchestra of Mata and Hazard. The intentions were good but one is inclined to think it backfired on Rafa Benitez.

For QPR, they must have believed they had a chance but that is a remote assumption as that Chelsea could have easily beaten Manchester United any day. On his part, Harry rested probably the proud, over payed and overrated goons.

Those entrusted with carrying the club on their shoulders made it a point to take the chance to cement their positions, or just to make louder claims to be noticed in future matches. One expects that there will be no changes to the winning team, but the old horse may taste the FA Cup. As for the league, Harry must stick to the side that delivered.

With or without our love, Harry is the man.

Euro 2012; Enter Mario, Exit Torres.

It's official. Enter Italy and exit Spain. Spain can beat Italy in the final if they want, but they are said to be boring by mainstream international media. This information is actually 18 months in arrears. They should have realised Barcelona were faded when we said it. Barcelona is Spain. What we did not see coming was Andreas Pirlo. By the same window, exit Xavi Hernandez.

The Euro 2012 finals get to fold on Sunday after England surpassed many people's expectations and drew criticism from within of Roy Hodgson's tactics, as if Harry Redknapp could have done better. The English were undone by the ever overrated pair of Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard. They could have done better without the duo.

It must be said that the Spain versus Portugal semi-final resembled a Barca against Real Madrid El Classico clash given the predictable tension and void tactics. The embarrasing amateur mistake by the Portuguese coach of leaving the best for last stole the show.

How noble it would have been for Cristiano Ronaldo to score the final and winning penalty. As he never lived to see the moment, all were reminded of always putting one's best foot forward. The least he could have done, was to let the showman take the 3^rd one.

Generally, the tourney put paid my fears I wrote about in one of my last articles; that international football is becoming extinct. Save for the few matches of smaller football nations and the Italy versus Germany semi-final, the Euro 2012 was a cold siesta.

For starters, how does any teams in the universe, boasting of Wesley Sneider, Robin van Pierse, Rafael van der Vaart, van Bommel and Nigel de Jong, to name but a few, fail to win or draw a single match?

National team football needs young and upcoming players of great ambitions. The overpaid experienced professional will keep wasting a lot of our time and money. One can only hope that Spain have seen their last victory in the tournament. As much I am not an Italian fan, it is a choice between a right-handed and left-handed devil.

Maybe there is something wrong with me

I take it as misinformation or just pure malice that one can wake in the morning and tell me that Jose Mourinho will coach a national team. It damages me if they go on to say that the national team will be England. To even think Pep Guardiola can replace the Italian, Fabio Capello, who resigned just before his biggest assignment besides the FIFA World Cup, is an insult to the English. Maybe it is just me.

The English have interests to guard at this moment in time. The few capable people have to be approached and signed. There is no way a hyper-active Mourinho can miss the weekly action of club football for the once in a blue moon national team football. Guardiola would take it but his experience and style is as English as the Indian sari.

That is not to say we can trust the FA, but then,assuming the Barcelona gaffer is an honest man I assume him to be, the speculation is a waste of cyber space and a global warming contributor given the origins of the wasted printed paper on which the story appeared.

The FA has since indicated waiting for the EPL season to end before making a decision. That sounds more sober given Harry Redknapp will have time to assist. The speculation of him being approached catastrophically derailed Spurs off the title rail and Manchester United and City have feasted on the mishap. Thanks to Arsenal.

Elsewhere, FIFA reports that in 2011, £1.9 billion was spent on international transfer fees of players. The cash does not include transfers between domestic clubs. What portion of this figure comes to you? You are in the wrong job.

1500 Brazilian players were involved in international transfers contribution 13 per cent of the total amount. You must remember that registered professional players from the Samba countries exceed total populations of Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland, Lesotho and many other countries combined.

The average basic annual salary for a footballer is £153,815, giving me some home work to do. I need to upgrade my CV and hopefully soon, I will hit that mark. Let's see who gets there first between and you.

The average transfer fee is just under £1m, not a bad figure if you have an academy and look forward to market your products. Given the cost of Cesc Fabregas and Sergio Arguero, you observe there were very low figures paid out for the majority of players. 

The system that tracks all this, was set up FIFA. They are pursuing 700 procedures against clubs and associations who have breached the rules. This is best in that smaller schools and teams that produced players who get transferred before their 23rd birthday will get due reward for the football education from the football shacks. 

I pray for the arrest and jailing of dubious and fraudulent agents. Forget about Pep and Jose coaching England. 

Man U won when they had to and Spurs lost the match they needed to lose.

In the interesting weekend events are highlighted by the final arrival of Wayne Rooney to the goal scoring charts and the baby cry from Spurs over their loss to Stoke City. Both teams are my favourite in the English Premier League and for different reasons.

Firstly and more importantly, Manchester United stood up to be counted and played a match they deserved to win on the balance of play. It could have been a result of a wake up call after the Red Devils found themselves booking a Europa League ticket when they had the opportunity of the real deal, the UEFA Champions League.

Barely a week after I tore their football behaviour to shreds, they picked themselves up, dusted off old form and scored a vital victory that even put neighbouring arch rivals off balance. Moneyed Manchester City came unstuck against a determined Chelsea and lost 1-2 on Monday night to keep United just 2 points behind them.

Victory for the Blues saw them climb to 3^rd, replacing Tottenham Hotspur who lost a thriller at Stoke. Spurs are 4^th on goal difference but they will be back and this is why.

For the few days before the next match, manager Harry Redknapp will be at pains to complement a good effort the team made and how the obvious blunders cost them an arm and a leg. He will tell the players they did a good job. That psychological massage has a sell-by date - the first half of the next match.

Spurs will feel like doubling their efforts to fend off committed teams and incompetent officials to make a statement about the Stoke match. The first 45 minutes of that match will show a resolute spirit of a wounded lion. Whether they will have anything to show for their sweat and blood, is another story.

The manager will get into that dressing room bellowing and barking at everyone about either failing to score half a dozen goals or just a single one for that matter. Either way, his point would be, ‘you think you have done enough, you think you are playing well. Do you think this is acceptable? Have you forgotten all your toil at Stoke City? What have you to show for it? Nothing! Nothing! You think I will accept this? No! Never! I want more and now.

This will be so regardless of the goals Spurs will have bagged by then. This line of thought will be the Spurs technical department strength and weapon. This makes Spurs more dangerous to play against. The problem will be the match officials who may want to prove a point. The referees may decide to compete with the inept officiating that was so embarrassing that the diplomatic Harry forgot his art of being a Mr Nice guy.

Let’s forget about bad jobs and talk about the good job Stoke did. City came in charged and with a particular game plan to make Spurs not to play. That killed all the flow Spurs would have. Gareth Bale, Rafael van der Vaart and Luka Modric never arrived till half time. Aaron Lennon was isolated and that eliminated Emmanuel Adebayour. To note, Scott Parker contributed more to Stoke’s cause and he donated possession with his usual precision.

That aside, the usual suspect in long throw-ins, Delap, was benched and that was enough to fool Assou Ekotto to push balls out for throw-ins. In the first half alone, and from the same spot, there were over 5 dangerous throw-ins by Shotton. Two of those were fatal.

Many can say that Redknapp was fed his own medicine. He has always been a fan of Peter Crouch. He loves target men who have an eye for goal. Crouch did not have to do much, but in Gallas and Kaboul, you could see Harry’s fear in them. They had no solution to his threat. Etherington, being ex-Spurs, like many others, cherished punishing the former pay master.

As much as Spurs toiled in vain and were surely robbed in broad daylight and with so many people watching, and the officials erred big time, Stoke worked well for their victory. It is not like it came on a silver platter. They should be commended for the way they made Spurs not play football for a moment, that when they actually did, City had goals to show for their efforts.

Arsenal’s time is over

Let’s agree, as much as Fernando Torres is a has-been and Wayne Rooney a just-gets-by, Arsenal, as the jewel of English football, are done. They are finished and enterTottenham Hotspur, as much as you may not like them. Maybe, given his unfair and sad past, enter Njemba Ba also. I hope he is here to stay.

I do not want to spoil Sir Alex Ferguson’s moment of glory in celebrating a quarter of a century on the job non-stop by saying that his days of winning the championship playing badly are numbered. Let him bask in the glory of history, and I can tell you now, never shall a human being stay in a coaching job that long, not even Arsene Wenger.

The reign of Manchester United is being brought to its knees by, as witchcraft is, a homeboy. Manchester City may not be here to stay, but their antics are restoring a new football order in England, and it is a necessary one. Chelsea are not really playing any better, having tremendously retrogressed since the days of The Special One. Andreas Boas-Villa may be trying a little to hard to emulate that feat. It will work for a while and the bubble will eventually burst.

Back to my point. Only now can one get a bowl of popcorn and a very cold drink, sit down and relax and enjoy a very fluid and result oriented game of football, when Spurs take to the field. The same can no longer be said when it’s the Gunners playing. Guaranteed entertainment comes from the one and only White Hart Lane and you can take that to the bank.

It is not like I am ungrateful for what Arsenal gave us when I was still a Gunner for life. I am now a Spurs fan and like I was for Arsenal, for life. It was good while it lasted but it’s over now and life goes on.

Let me make it clear here. Maybe my attributes as a good coach come into play here, I am not sure. You may be wondering why, if I was a Gunner for life, I no longer go for them. I can only get to the grave and that’s it. I was with them while they lived, but they can now rest in peace.

Admittedly, Robin van Pierse has been on fire lately and the results have been coming from Emirates, sometimes against all odds and at others just. The kicks of a dying horse are dangerous but the horse is, honestly, dying. It has not been a slow death unfortunately, coming six years down the line.

The problem of the fall included the premature move of Thierry Henry to Barcelona which was followed by an ill-advised transfer of his heir to his throne to Manchester City. Emmanuel Adebayor might have been an outcast at the Emirates but he was the man Arsenal needed to make all the difference then.

The double vacuum grew twice and then thrice with the Samir Nasri deal and the vessel is collapsing. Not that Arsene Wenger does not care. The man is an astute businessman. In football you can either do business or coach. As an example, Jose Mourinho is an astute coach. Reeding of Adebayor for Maroune Chamakh was really bad business. Nicklaus Bendtner was not ready to carry the yoke.

Let’s draw a contrast between the two. Wenger has always complained about high salaries and football being too much of a money thing than a game. He thinks players are too expensive and salaries are too high, and that it is not football anymore. Fairly, Wenger is a nice guy.

Mourinho will pay anything for a player to deliver what he wants. He is a customer who tips well for a good service. He knows what he wants, and naturally, like all good coaches, selfish. That is what makes him special. He has a certain football in his head that only certain people can deliver for him and he gets those by hook or crook.

At Arsenal, they want whoever they get, to rise and shine and be moulded into a force to be reckoned with. They are house-wife-like bargain hunters. This worked (at least for them) a few years back when technology and game dynamics were very slow. Now things have changed direction, and they do so very fast. By the time a player matures to deliver for Wenger, the other ones have passed their sell-by dates and the dynamics of the game have scurried off in another direction.

If fate has it that these players reach a certain tactical level at the same time, the tactical playing field will have been evened by those like Manchester City who are willing to break banks. Arsenal are not a little behind the times but to see the bigger picture and solvelong-term problems, they have to remain an average team for a while longer like Liverpool. The transition period for them means a new generation of players and a new generation coach. Meanwhile, Spurs will occupy their space keeping it safe until their eventual return.

You may be wondering what all this means, given SAF is just as old school as Wenger. Manchester United’s football has been dynamic, and so has been their players over time. The Gunners stagnated their style while waiting for the maturing players and recycling a few veterans. Man U have always done the opposite, managing to fiddle around with generation gaps and tactics. It never failed them until Jose Mourinho came to England.

What Mouriunho brought to England changed the whole game in a certain big way. English football always had players kissing the club badges and celebrating goals by raising their hands to the fans. Remember  Les Ferdinand, Ian Wright, Michael Owen and Allan Shearer to name a few?

With Jose, they ran to him, they hugged him, they embraced each other. You will remember that the players uncontrollably sobbed like they were at a funeral when he left.  They played his football and not club football. This took the game to another level as football began to idolise the people who tailored and fashioned tactics. It made managers more relevant and much more useful and powerful. It cultivated a culture of a specific work ethic. Clubs ceased to be successful because they are Liverpool, Arsenal or Manchester United for that matter.

In short, Gunners played the Arsenal way, while Chelsea played the Mourinho way. As for Man U, there has never been a club or manager’s way. It has always been the talented players' magic. That is why, even at this stage when Sir Alex is celebrating 25 years at Old Trafford, his greatest 11 put by pundits can easily look smaller that the next 11 you can pick yourself.

Think with me. In that 11, there is no Andy Cole or Dwight Yorke. The pair formed the most lethal partnership in the Premiership history. My point is that Man U have always been spoilt for talent that they did not need this or that, given that in that SAF's great 11, there was Eric Cantona, David Beckam, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Peter Schmichael. With those players, it would always be a question of when than how.

As for now Tottenham will give you that nice flow the Gunners gave us, the sleek passing entertaining fluid football that thrills. There is no guarantee as to how they will be doing this. This is for three reasons.

Spurs attract injuries with chilling consistency. They hardly get their best 11 on the pitch two matches in a row. It is not that they have the best squad in the league, but if they would manage to be spoilt for choice within their modest ranks, it would be interesting to see how far they can go.

The second reason is the age factor. This one affects Spurs in a different way from normal. Their good players are keen to end their careers in ‘big clubs’ like Manchester United, City and Chelsea. They dream about going to Real Madrid or Barcelona. For a Spurs player, a big club means more money because Spurs is big enough as a club.

The possibility of Harry Redknapp coaching England within months also threatens the smooth operation of Spurs addictive football. Arry has always loved beautiful football from the time he was at West Ham. His recruitment of African footballers is evidence enough of his belief in good technique and tactical awareness. He will take that away with him and his successor may not be that versatile.

While doing England duties, it will be interesting how players like Aaron Lennon, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Ashley Young will be competing with Theo Walcott for the wingers' positions. With Redknapp, if he has his liberty, you may wake up one morning with all four playing in the same team. That is the shrewdness of the man whose game has become so unEnglish that his country so much needs.

For now, sit down, chill and relax and watch the next Spurs match with the confidence of getting your money’s worth. Only if I could guarantee that it would last a life-time.

This is what makes the coach special

The El Classico has come and gone with Barca putting Madrid to the sword by a 2-0 scoreline in the UEFA 1st Leg Quarter-final, with the final version to close the chapter on the corner. More on that with the EXTRA TIME with Vususmuzi Mourinho Ndlovu tomorrow. As for now, I have been keeping an Eagle’s eye and keeping my mouth shut about how bad Manchester United and how good Arsenal are. I have been tempted to say how average Chelsea and Spurs have become. All I manage to say was that the bottom of the English Premiership is now of more interest than the top.

There has not been lack of questions about the 2nd place and the final top 4. After their home 2-2 draw, Harry Redknapp showed how much of a top-notch coach he is. This is one man who does not put any pressure on the players. He puts things into perspective and realistically push players to give their best. This is his reaction in a post match interview.

“It’s going to be difficult but it’s still all to play for. I find it hard that now everyone expects us to be in the Champions League. Tottenham had never been in it before until this season and suddenly it is like ‘we have to be in the Champions League’. Manchester City have gone out and spent God knows what to get above us. Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea are there every year, Liverpool will be there next year. It’s difficult to get fourth. It has been a great season but it’s not over yet.”

 The issue of managers took a centre stage for a moment when people started thinking Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola are both heading for the Premier League. Sir Alex Ferguson once hinted opting out of Old Trafford years back but stayed put. He has not given a hint of leaving and already it’s like Jose will replace him tomorrow. Redknapp and Guardiola have been linked with Chelsea but then it is reported Chelsea have met Andre Villas-Boas’s agent in an attempt to lure the 33-year-old Porto manager to West London in the summer.

The void Mourinho leaves at Madrid is said to be an Arsene Wenger’s space. If Guardiola goes to Chelsea, who takes over at Barcelona? Who will replace Wenger should he go to Madrid and will Redknapp take the England job after Fabio Capello leaves, and who will be in charge at White Hart Lane?

(Originally from http://www.tsendex.wordpress.com/)

Real take Spurs to the cleaners

Italy President, Silvio Barlusconi is facing one of numerous sex offences his presidency had been marred with. I am not familiar as to who is the accuser here, but I am certain the lesson to learn from all prostitute engagers is to ask first, ‘How old are you?’ And do not take the prostitute’s answer at face value. Go through the handbags and all until you have all facts verified. It may be worthwhile to have a receipt for all the transactions made and the actual acts paid for. With money and power of a Berlusconi, I don’t think anyone can see a President having sex, especially with a Moroccan 17-year old. I am not judging.

In what is called a white-wash, as expected in the UEFA quarter-final, Real Madrid of Spain made light work of Tottenham Hotspur of England in the first leg at the Bernebeu. With Spurs potential attacking prowess clearly known, any hopes of a comeback against Jose Mourinho’s Madrid can’t be imagined even by the most insane of us.

Mourinho will know that playing a team without any pressure of winning in front of their home crowd is not an easy task, just as Harry Redknapp is a realist enough to tell you that scoring 5 or at least 4 against 9 time European champions is like walking on water. Naturally, all attention will shift to other English clubs expected to play better, owing to their experience at this level.

Manchester United and Chelsea are likely to pull off good results, or at least respectable scores that can be reversed in the reverse fixtures. Spurs can take solace in that Inter Milan got a hiding, being hit for 5. Some will argue that Inter are not the powerhouses they used to be, given that Spurs actually hammered the Italians.

Today Spurs represents

For a moment tonight, friends and foes gather in spirit from several parts of the world at White Hart Lane. Many are in high spirits after Tottenham Hotspur beat 6 time UEFA Champions at the San Siro. Spurs are having their first shot at the Cup in modern times. The others are of heavy spirit after a dismal Arsenal performers who bowed out to superior Barcelona 24 hours ago.

For all Engish football lovers, Spurs have to revenge the Gunners tonight. All the hype and fuss is not unfounded. Spurs are capable. After so many doubts of their abilities, they pulled off a string of astonishing results and records. With their last victory coming in the absence of Gareth Bale, there is no doubt that their abilities are anchored on team work. Bale may play a part tonight, byt Rafael van der Vaart is the man to do the damage.

Spurs have been very unlucky with injuries and for them, this fixture is a fun game and that relieves all the pressure to perform. AC Milan have a reputation to prove. Some men can stand up and be counted when it matters the most and there is nothing to suggest this will be their moment. Spurs have a crawd, the ground and the players behind them. Not to reward evil, there is no way Gattusso's antics will be unpunished by the Creator.

At the end of the day, Harry Redknapp has all the keys and buttoms he needs to land the Londoners on the moon tonight. All ye Spurs, can you feel it?

Spurs fairy tale continues against AC Milan

Aaron Lennon picked up the ball, got on his bike, accelerated at 500 miles per hour, skipped a hump. attracted unnecessary attention, checked his rear view mirrors and spotted Peter Crouch, played the ball square and Crouch unleashed a low curling shot into the bottom left corner in the 80th minute. Cometh the moment, cometh the man.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic wrestled Dawson down and attempted a Wayne Rooney acrobatic bicycle kick and fired past Gomes and the officials caught the act and disallowed the cheating. Flamini and Gattuso were lucky to be in the pitch the entire match. Milan survived 2 obvious penalty cases. They are not out yet but their task at White Hart Lane is the worst any team has had to face this season.

The match started well with Tottenham Hotspur controlling the UEFA Champions League match with quick and incisive passes into the attacking area and out-shooting the host in the opening 15 minutes. Spurs looked like the side at home and defended efficiently. The end of the half was a balanced affair and Spurs were the happier of the two teams.

The second half saw the change in fortunes and Milan took the game to the visitors but the Spurs defence, for the first time ever, was really water tight, giving nothing away at all. Robinho was beginning to get too much space and finding Ibrahimovic. Spurs cracked a few times and Gomes was to be at his best to keep them out.

Spurs will be taking home a comfortable 1-0 win and will be welcoming back Gareth Bale in the second leg. It will be folly for them to rest on their laurels. They carry an advantage of a great coach and playing without pressure as they play the masters of Europe.

The fairy tale of Harry Redknapp's team continues and hopefully they will be at full strength in the return leg. 

The most fireable managers of the Premiership

The 2010/2011 season transfer window has spectacularly changed the landscape of the Barclays Premier League managers’ job security, even if only just. As we have seen with the movements of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll to Liverpool and Fernando Torres, the focus at the bottom side of the table will lose some shine.

Arsene Wenger remains the manager number one to lose his job under the circumstances. Arsenal will need to win the FA Cup to drop him from the number one spot. This is basically because of his tired young side that desperately needs to win something. Until then, unless some senseless chairmen exhibit their rabies infected decision, Wenger heads the list. Frankly, at this point, Arsenal are not championship material, and you cannot put your money on them winning the champions league, but if they win either, Arsene will drop way below even Sir Alex Ferguson.

Chelsea's Italian Carlo Ancellotti is a close second. The reigning champions brought in Fernando Torres for a good sum. He gets paid well too. Ancellotti leans on the argument that Torres’s arrival came a little too late. It depends on how much money left does Roman Abrahimovic to buy that story. Otherwise, Chelsea will have to retain their title and/or win the champions league. They have the pedigree to achieve either or both feats, albeit with some difficulty.

Italians are usually a closely knit society and Roberto Mancini is just as close to Ancellotti in this index. For now, he will be buying time based on their current position and the fact that they did not enter the market to increase their firepower. His employers however, already have a huge wage bill and their big investment in the names they brought to Eastlands should be bearing fruit by now. They are within touching distance of the championship but Mancini needs both luck and the championship to keep his job. It will boil to the volatility of the character of his employers to remain there until May 2011.

Next in this list is Liverpool legend, Kenny Daglish. The new Liverpool manager wisely made sound business deals that will make both fans and employers happy. They offloaded under-performing Torres for red-hot Suarez and Carroll. The two have not much time to settle and need to hit the ground running. That is a possibility and I believe they will. However, should fortunes not turn and luck abandons them, any slide down the ladder will render Daglish unemployed by the end of the season. One would expect The Reds to be close to their best with the new-look side.

Following that trend, Harry Redknapp has an excuse to his employers. They failed to secure all three of his targets. Tottenham Hotspur had Diego Forlan in their shopping basket. They signed Bongani Khumalo and Steve Pienaar when I think they should have gotten very solid central defenders. Khumalo will need to get experience to secure a position in the team. William Gallas is dependable but his pace is coming to question now and then. Redknapp is the hottest manager in the league and he is making history at White Hart Lane. People and his employers love him. It remains to be seen how the team will tackle the champions' league safari. After such a long break, the team may implode and glide down. Their experience players are old war horses you cannot put your money on. The rest are either novices or injury prone. His job, until he decides he wants to be English coach, is the second most secure in the league.

There is little doubt of the intentions of Manchester United. Sir Alex Ferguson is the most experience and astute manager in the league. He once threatened to quit, citing lack of challenge, wanting to rest and all. That is all forgotten and United are on their way to winning the umpteenth championship and the champions league. SAF will remain the top manager no matter the form of The Red Devils. His team is not playing anyway near their best and yet they are where they want. On his side, there are no likely candidates to replace him if he left. For that and more, he has the most secure job in football management, today and probably the rest of his career.

The rest of the managers, for different reasons, fall somewhere in between. Some have the problems of their undoing while others are in low budget teams. Usually, either way, it does not matter. Those in the precarious relegation zone are likely to keep their jobs until they have sunk the teams to the reef. They usually bounce back with promoted teams to sink them again.

Spurs were the losers, but SAF strokes 'Arry'

With all Barclays Premier League matches drawn this Sunday, the biggest winners in the stalemates were Manchester United, and of course, the losers Tottenham Spur. In an entertaining and blood warming romance between the two protagonists, it turned out to be just a sterile affair, both teams spilling wide of the target finishing 0-0.

United were obviously the beneficiary of 'soon-to-be-fair-refereeing' (I am trying hard to be polite here) having travelled, got a point, maintained an unbeaten run and shot to the summit of the league above neighbouring arch rivals, Manchester City. By contrast, Spurs were at home and could have overtaken Chelsea for the top four spot. Despite what happened, Harry Redknapp was not ready to call any decision a 'farce'.

As we have come to expect, Spurs will not be surrendering points easily, as they refused to be charitable to championship contenders. Any good coach knows that if you are to win it, one has to beat fellow aspirants yourself and win home and away. For that reason, Spurs will be hoping someone beats United for them and that is not a championship material mentality at all. They, however, did not give much away.

Sir Alex Ferguson, usually expected in big match mind games, went straight between his opposite number's legs, gently stroking Redknapp's balls, saying Spurs are the contenders. Fortunately Harry is experienced and a realist enough to tell you somebody will have to give it to them. Spurs are not yet good enough to subdue City, Arsenal, Chelsea and United beside party spoilers, over the stretch of the season. 

Both managers showed respect for each other on the pitch, fortifying the rear to protect the point they had at kick-off. The tactics seemed to unfold simultaneously to cancel any decisive offensive raids. They praised central defenders of both their sides. Spurs felt a little undone by failing to score, and rightly so, but gave United a lot of respect. Any team failing to beat United now are average and that is not what Spurs need to be, both for their Premiership campaign and the UEFA Champions League.

Kenny Daglish started off well with a point after a home 2-2 derby draw against Everton. The fading Reds have been notorious for changing coaches like nappies and hopefully, the former icon and Liverpool legend will see them through tough times. Sunderland and Newcastle finished 1-1, as did Birmingham City and Aston Villa.

Congratulations Harry, congratulations.

I introduced my children to good football. First, to Arsenal of the great Thierry Henry, Robert Pires, Patrick Vierra, Cesc Fabregas and Jens Lehman to name a few. Then, there was a sensually stroking Barcelona who they watched at Loftus Stadium in Pretoria against Mamelodi Sundowns. This was a great team of Ronaldinho, Lillian Thuram, Thierry Henry, Xavi and Iniesta among others. Lionel Messi has since come in and Ronaldinho gone.

The problem is that my children are completely human. They do not know the end of a good thing, actually, the beginning of a good one. They have since split to following Arsenal, Barca and Real Madrid. They did not see Tottenham Spurs coming, even at my expert warning 2 years back. They always thought it was a beginner's luck for Harry Redknapp.

When Spurs qualified for the UEFA Champions League, they said I befriended Harry. I told them I do not know the guy. They prophesied how Spurs will be humiliated in Europe. I disagreed. Now that the group of death is concluded and Spurs are on top of the champions of Holland, Germany and Italy, who happen to be holders of the Champions League, there is talk of how much they will suffer in the knock-out stages. Children! They do not know a good thing when they see one. I can only guess they will be saying how much Spurs will fail to defend the title if they won it. If they defended it, it will be how impossible it will be to defend it again and again.

Football is a game of 2 halves and 90 minutes in total. You make your own luck by fighting a good fight. It is necessary to have the material with which you believe your complete product will satisfy you before others. Given that Spurs are no powerhouse by any measure, without comparing them to anyone but themselves, their season may as well be over and that will suffice. especially for their fans. These are the years that will live in their hearts permanently. It is unimagined history for many, except for those like my sons. At least they never expect much from Spurs as they are labelled 'terrible'. And Harry doesn't care.

The London team achieved this feat amid their most trying times in terms of personnel. They have a complete 2 sets of central defenders, their most priced midfielders and the hottest striker for them and England on the surgery table. I am talking of Gomes, King, Dawson, Kaboul, Huddlestone, Modric, Van der Vaart and Defoe. This a spine for any teams that could have conquered any league any day regardless of who you fielded along them. As we all know football, this does not guarantee that these would have made the team better, but a sane coach with such players in good health and chooses not to use them would be crazy. Harry is crazy, but not that much.

With their history, resources and personnel, Spurs will not mind even if the world ended today. They are on a high and to believe this is the end of their glory, is for you and me to worry about. They have the least pressure to impress going forward. This is actually what a team needs for success; less expectation, from both themselves and others.

As for my children, I should have forced football down their throats and made them into Messi, Ronaldinho and Ronaldo of Brazil. This modern thing of letting childern become what they desire to be, is just not on. Look at the William sisters!! Ok, enough..

Manchester U Beats Liverpool as Chelsea Continues Being Ruthless.

[caption id="attachment_2026" align="alignright" width="377" caption="Pic form Eurosport."][/caption]

 

Manchester United  pulled one from the bag to pocket 3 points against a better Liverpool side that was nonetheless shocking in their defending. The Reds shaky start was characterised by the static defence that seemed to be perplexed by crosses on countless occasions. Manchester won 3-2, Berbetov scoring all three for United.

Dimitri Berbetov was superb as evidenced by his excellent acrobatic goal that was donated by Pepe Reina, Liverpool goalkeeper. Berbetov proved to be a powerful and strong target man who United will need to chase the champions. The class of the Bulgarian was always a media concern when the expectations were misplaced on his goalscoring abilities. This eventually weighed on the man until he decided to stop caring and now he is proving the point.

Pepe was generally poor as he was flat-footed more than once and was deep rootedly planted when admiring the acrobats and flight of the Berbetov lob. It was the same story with the form of off-form Fernando Torres. I never had doubts about his scoring ability but I have always waited for him to prove he is not over-rated. This match did not help his cause in that regard as he toiled all day without producing much except for winning the penalty.  

The cool-headed Steven Gerrard did well to convert the penalty and free-kicks to give Liverpool hope to collect a point. The Red Devils were on over-drive as Nani crushed the crossbar in the first half. Wayne Rooney was anonymous, taking all the defenders' attention and leaving room for Berbetov to shine with a hat-trick.

Chelsea were ruthlessly rampant as usual, routing Blackpool with 4 first half goals coming from double scorer, Flourent Malouda as well as Salmon Kalou. Super Didier Drogba was in sublime form as he provided assists and unselfishly fed his wasteful teammates. He lost his touch from working in overdrive for 90 minutes as he wasted a few glorious chances he usually converts with his eyes closed.

Blackpool for their part, not conceding in the second half was a very notable achievement that they have to build on. They were a wasteful lot and had glorious chances they fluffed. At least they have something to build on.

Manchester City came to the party with Carlos Tevez turning on the music. An average dink over the goalkeeper was a superb opening goal of the class we know Tevez can be. Wigan were never going to match City who came from a good mid-week Europa win.

Arsenal were helpless yesterday huffing and puffing and finally surrendering the lead to Sunderland. Cesc Fabregas put the Gunners ahead with a very lucky goal. Ferdinand's attempted clearance hit Fabregas so hard and went over Ferdinand's head. flying over 40 yards lobbing over the goalkeeper. Darren Bent had the last word in the last-minute with an equaliser with the last kick of the match.

The match of the week, was, of course, Tottenham Hotspurs who overcame a stubborn Wolverhampton. Wolves were almost running away with the match with 15 minutes to go, when Spurs decide to put things to order. A three goal salvo was enough to silence Harry Redknapp's critics, at least for now. The doubting Thomases will find it hard to accept the ascendance of Spurs, which is very slow but very much alive. The nay-sayers already compare Spurs to the top four teams. They are not yet in that league, but they are surely on the right track.

Manchester U Beats Liverpool as Chelsea Continues Being Ruthless.

[caption id="attachment_2026" align="alignright" width="377" caption="Pic form Eurosport."][/caption]

 

Manchester United  pulled one from the bag to pocket 3 points against a better Liverpool side that was nonetheless shocking in their defending. The Reds shaky start was characterised by the static defence that seemed to be perplexed by crosses on countless occasions. Manchester won 3-2, Berbetov scoring all three for United.

Dimitri Berbetov was superb as evidenced by his excellent acrobatic goal that was donated by Pepe Reina, Liverpool goalkeeper. Berbetov proved to be a powerful and strong target man who United will need to chase the champions. The class of the Bulgarian was always a media concern when the expectations were misplaced on his goalscoring abilities. This eventually weighed on the man until he decided to stop caring and now he is proving the point.

Pepe was generally poor as he was flat-footed more than once and was deep rootedly planted when admiring the acrobats and flight of the Berbetov lob. It was the same story with the form of off-form Fernando Torres. I never had doubts about his scoring ability but I have always waited for him to prove he is not over-rated. This match did not help his cause in that regard as he toiled all day without producing much except for winning the penalty.  

The cool-headed Steven Gerrard did well to convert the penalty and free-kicks to give Liverpool hope to collect a point. The Red Devils were on over-drive as Nani crushed the crossbar in the first half. Wayne Rooney was anonymous, taking all the defenders' attention and leaving room for Berbetov to shine with a hat-trick.

Chelsea were ruthlessly rampant as usual, routing Blackpool with 4 first half goals coming from double scorer, Flourent Malouda as well as Salmon Kalou. Super Didier Drogba was in sublime form as he provided assists and unselfishly fed his wasteful teammates. He lost his touch from working in overdrive for 90 minutes as he wasted a few glorious chances he usually converts with his eyes closed.

Blackpool for their part, not conceding in the second half was a very notable achievement that they have to build on. They were a wasteful lot and had glorious chances they fluffed. At least they have something to build on.

Manchester City came to the party with Carlos Tevez turning on the music. An average dink over the goalkeeper was a superb opening goal of the class we know Tevez can be. Wigan were never going to match City who came from a good mid-week Europa win.

Arsenal were helpless yesterday huffing and puffing and finally surrendering the lead to Sunderland. Cesc Fabregas put the Gunners ahead with a very lucky goal. Ferdinand's attempted clearance hit Fabregas so hard and went over Ferdinand's head. flying over 40 yards lobbing over the goalkeeper. Darren Bent had the last word in the last-minute with an equaliser with the last kick of the match.

The match of the week, was, of course, Tottenham Hotspurs who overcame a stubborn Wolverhampton. Wolves were almost running away with the match with 15 minutes to go, when Spurs decide to put things to order. A three goal salvo was enough to silence Harry Redknapp's critics, at least for now. The doubting Thomases will find it hard to accept the ascendance of Spurs, which is very slow but very much alive. The nay-sayers already compare Spurs to the top four teams. They are not yet in that league, but they are surely on the right track.

Manchester U Beats Liverpool as Chelsea Continues Being Ruthless.

[caption id="attachment_2026" align="alignright" width="377" caption="Pic form Eurosport."][/caption]

 

Manchester United  pulled one from the bag to pocket 3 points against a better Liverpool side that was nonetheless shocking in their defending. The Reds shaky start was characterised by the static defence that seemed to be perplexed by crosses on countless occasions. Manchester won 3-2, Berbetov scoring all three for United.

Dimitri Berbetov was superb as evidenced by his excellent acrobatic goal that was donated by Pepe Reina, Liverpool goalkeeper. Berbetov proved to be a powerful and strong target man who United will need to chase the champions. The class of the Bulgarian was always a media concern when the expectations were misplaced on his goalscoring abilities. This eventually weighed on the man until he decided to stop caring and now he is proving the point.

Pepe was generally poor as he was flat-footed more than once and was deep rootedly planted when admiring the acrobats and flight of the Berbetov lob. It was the same story with the form of off-form Fernando Torres. I never had doubts about his scoring ability but I have always waited for him to prove he is not over-rated. This match did not help his cause in that regard as he toiled all day without producing much except for winning the penalty.  

The cool-headed Steven Gerrard did well to convert the penalty and free-kicks to give Liverpool hope to collect a point. The Red Devils were on over-drive as Nani crushed the crossbar in the first half. Wayne Rooney was anonymous, taking all the defenders' attention and leaving room for Berbetov to shine with a hat-trick.

Chelsea were ruthlessly rampant as usual, routing Blackpool with 4 first half goals coming from double scorer, Flourent Malouda as well as Salmon Kalou. Super Didier Drogba was in sublime form as he provided assists and unselfishly fed his wasteful teammates. He lost his touch from working in overdrive for 90 minutes as he wasted a few glorious chances he usually converts with his eyes closed.

Blackpool for their part, not conceding in the second half was a very notable achievement that they have to build on. They were a wasteful lot and had glorious chances they fluffed. At least they have something to build on.

Manchester City came to the party with Carlos Tevez turning on the music. An average dink over the goalkeeper was a superb opening goal of the class we know Tevez can be. Wigan were never going to match City who came from a good mid-week Europa win.

Arsenal were helpless yesterday huffing and puffing and finally surrendering the lead to Sunderland. Cesc Fabregas put the Gunners ahead with a very lucky goal. Ferdinand's attempted clearance hit Fabregas so hard and went over Ferdinand's head. flying over 40 yards lobbing over the goalkeeper. Darren Bent had the last word in the last-minute with an equaliser with the last kick of the match.

The match of the week, was, of course, Tottenham Hotspurs who overcame a stubborn Wolverhampton. Wolves were almost running away with the match with 15 minutes to go, when Spurs decide to put things to order. A three goal salvo was enough to silence Harry Redknapp's critics, at least for now. The doubting Thomases will find it hard to accept the ascendance of Spurs, which is very slow but very much alive. The nay-sayers already compare Spurs to the top four teams. They are not yet in that league, but they are surely on the right track.

Manchester U Beats Liverpool as Chelsea Continues Being Ruthless.

[caption id="attachment_2026" align="alignright" width="377" caption="Pic form Eurosport."][/caption]

 

Manchester United  pulled one from the bag to pocket 3 points against a better Liverpool side that was nonetheless shocking in their defending. The Reds shaky start was characterised by the static defence that seemed to be perplexed by crosses on countless occasions. Manchester won 3-2, Berbetov scoring all three for United.

Dimitri Berbetov was superb as evidenced by his excellent acrobatic goal that was donated by Pepe Reina, Liverpool goalkeeper. Berbetov proved to be a powerful and strong target man who United will need to chase the champions. The class of the Bulgarian was always a media concern when the expectations were misplaced on his goalscoring abilities. This eventually weighed on the man until he decided to stop caring and now he is proving the point.

Pepe was generally poor as he was flat-footed more than once and was deep rootedly planted when admiring the acrobats and flight of the Berbetov lob. It was the same story with the form of off-form Fernando Torres. I never had doubts about his scoring ability but I have always waited for him to prove he is not over-rated. This match did not help his cause in that regard as he toiled all day without producing much except for winning the penalty.  

The cool-headed Steven Gerrard did well to convert the penalty and free-kicks to give Liverpool hope to collect a point. The Red Devils were on over-drive as Nani crushed the crossbar in the first half. Wayne Rooney was anonymous, taking all the defenders' attention and leaving room for Berbetov to shine with a hat-trick.

Chelsea were ruthlessly rampant as usual, routing Blackpool with 4 first half goals coming from double scorer, Flourent Malouda as well as Salmon Kalou. Super Didier Drogba was in sublime form as he provided assists and unselfishly fed his wasteful teammates. He lost his touch from working in overdrive for 90 minutes as he wasted a few glorious chances he usually converts with his eyes closed.

Blackpool for their part, not conceding in the second half was a very notable achievement that they have to build on. They were a wasteful lot and had glorious chances they fluffed. At least they have something to build on.

Manchester City came to the party with Carlos Tevez turning on the music. An average dink over the goalkeeper was a superb opening goal of the class we know Tevez can be. Wigan were never going to match City who came from a good mid-week Europa win.

Arsenal were helpless yesterday huffing and puffing and finally surrendering the lead to Sunderland. Cesc Fabregas put the Gunners ahead with a very lucky goal. Ferdinand's attempted clearance hit Fabregas so hard and went over Ferdinand's head. flying over 40 yards lobbing over the goalkeeper. Darren Bent had the last word in the last-minute with an equaliser with the last kick of the match.

The match of the week, was, of course, Tottenham Hotspurs who overcame a stubborn Wolverhampton. Wolves were almost running away with the match with 15 minutes to go, when Spurs decide to put things to order. A three goal salvo was enough to silence Harry Redknapp's critics, at least for now. The doubting Thomases will find it hard to accept the ascendance of Spurs, which is very slow but very much alive. The nay-sayers already compare Spurs to the top four teams. They are not yet in that league, but they are surely on the right track.

Tottenham Hotspurs Set To Sign South African Defender.

Manchester City sent shivers down a few spines with 'men at work' like attitude when they subdued Liverpool by a 3-0 scoreline. The result is of no consequence to me. The fact, after that match, is that Tottenham Hotspurs are better than Liverpool FC, and of course, taking into consideration last week's match into account, that Spurs are at par with the dearly assembled City.

The fact that  Bongani Khumalo is a wanted man at White Hart Lane by Harry Redknapp, means that South Africa can still produce class. Khumalo is on trial with English Premier League club, Tottenham Hotspur, having left on Saturday. Arry, who likes quality and class, invited the Bafana Bafana's Supersport defender to London for a week and hopefully will make the grade.  

Khumalo made a grade for the Bafana line-up by default, because Supersport team-mate, Morgan Gould, was injured. The 23-year-old defender rose majestically with distinguished performances and the first goal Bafana scored against France in Bloemfontein. Spurs will surely do with the confidence Bongani got for his antics during the FIFA World Cup.

Tottenham visited South Africa a few years ago, playing against a very hot Orlando Pirates that boasted of the services of Lesley Manyathela, Thabo Mngomeni and Captain Long John Mabizela. Glenn Hoddle, Spurs coach then, was so incensed by the African 'shoe-shine piano' and he made an official complaint of the disrespect the hosts showed to the visitors. Spurs had to resort to rugby tackles to deal with 'shibobo after shibobo'. The exploits of Mabizela earned him a big contract at Spurs.

Mabizela did not disappoint in London, coming in as a 2nd half substitute in the defensive link position, belting a thunderous goal from just outside the centre circle. Khumalo may not fill in those shoes but he is solid enough to make a name in the Premiership.

Tottenham Hotspurs Set To Sign South African Defender.

Manchester City sent shivers down a few spines with 'men at work' like attitude when they subdued Liverpool by a 3-0 scoreline. The result is of no consequence to me. The fact, after that match, is that Tottenham Hotspurs are better than Liverpool FC, and of course, taking into consideration last week's match into account, that Spurs are at par with the dearly assembled City.

The fact that  Bongani Khumalo is a wanted man at White Hart Lane by Harry Redknapp, means that South Africa can still produce class. Khumalo is on trial with English Premier League club, Tottenham Hotspur, having left on Saturday. Arry, who likes quality and class, invited the Bafana Bafana's Supersport defender to London for a week and hopefully will make the grade.  

Khumalo made a grade for the Bafana line-up by default, because Supersport team-mate, Morgan Gould, was injured. The 23-year-old defender rose majestically with distinguished performances and the first goal Bafana scored against France in Bloemfontein. Spurs will surely do with the confidence Bongani got for his antics during the FIFA World Cup.

Tottenham visited South Africa a few years ago, playing against a very hot Orlando Pirates that boasted of the services of Lesley Manyathela, Thabo Mngomeni and Captain Long John Mabizela. Glenn Hoddle, Spurs coach then, was so incensed by the African 'shoe-shine piano' and he made an official complaint of the disrespect the hosts showed to the visitors. Spurs had to resort to rugby tackles to deal with 'shibobo after shibobo'. The exploits of Mabizela earned him a big contract at Spurs.

Mabizela did not disappoint in London, coming in as a 2nd half substitute in the defensive link position, belting a thunderous goal from just outside the centre circle. Khumalo may not fill in those shoes but he is solid enough to make a name in the Premiership.

Tottenham Hotspurs Set To Sign South African Defender.

Manchester City sent shivers down a few spines with 'men at work' like attitude when they subdued Liverpool by a 3-0 scoreline. The result is of no consequence to me. The fact, after that match, is that Tottenham Hotspurs are better than Liverpool FC, and of course, taking into consideration last week's match into account, that Spurs are at par with the dearly assembled City.

The fact that  Bongani Khumalo is a wanted man at White Hart Lane by Harry Redknapp, means that South Africa can still produce class. Khumalo is on trial with English Premier League club, Tottenham Hotspur, having left on Saturday. Arry, who likes quality and class, invited the Bafana Bafana's Supersport defender to London for a week and hopefully will make the grade.  

Khumalo made a grade for the Bafana line-up by default, because Supersport team-mate, Morgan Gould, was injured. The 23-year-old defender rose majestically with distinguished performances and the first goal Bafana scored against France in Bloemfontein. Spurs will surely do with the confidence Bongani got for his antics during the FIFA World Cup.

Tottenham visited South Africa a few years ago, playing against a very hot Orlando Pirates that boasted of the services of Lesley Manyathela, Thabo Mngomeni and Captain Long John Mabizela. Glenn Hoddle, Spurs coach then, was so incensed by the African 'shoe-shine piano' and he made an official complaint of the disrespect the hosts showed to the visitors. Spurs had to resort to rugby tackles to deal with 'shibobo after shibobo'. The exploits of Mabizela earned him a big contract at Spurs.

Mabizela did not disappoint in London, coming in as a 2nd half substitute in the defensive link position, belting a thunderous goal from just outside the centre circle. Khumalo may not fill in those shoes but he is solid enough to make a name in the Premiership.