Disqus - Latest Comments for Simon Burke

Re: Latest News from EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Tue, 15 Aug 2006 14:13:00 -0000

Can I just get confirmation that this includes EPL Games? If i order Setanta braodband through setanta it explicitly DOESNT include premier league games. Does the version on ITVN include these matches?

Re: The Dilemma of Being a Football Fan in America

Simon Burke — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 10:53:00 -0000

I will be one of the ITVNers probably fighting with their technical support :) At the end of the day i love football but i dont want to watch 8 games a weekend - West Ham V Charlton and other filler will easily fall by the wayside. For me its Liverpool/Arsenal/United/Spurs and Chelsea games that will be prioritised and i wouldnt watch all 5 if they were separate either! I do however love having the choice!

Re: The Dilemma of Being a Football Fan in America

Simon Burke — Thu, 17 Aug 2006 23:13:00 -0000

HI there - just installed my ITVN. IMpressive at times - horrific at others - lots of buffering at certain times, free and clear at others, i fear when lots of people try this at once on SAturday - so far i think its a novel idea but the quality isnt good enough quite yet - initial reaction to those who are unsure is to hold off for more reports. Incidentally i have awesome internet speed here and its not that effective for long periods of time.

Re: Events Planned This Weekend for Premiership Viewers

Simon Burke — Sat, 19 Aug 2006 10:54:00 -0000

watching liverpool and arsenal here, first game was great, arsenal audio is shaky. One thing i have noticed - setanta feed gives out scores of other games. If United were on tape delay this afternoon i would know that result as setanta makde sure to tell us. Any way we can lobby for this to change?

Re: Events Planned This Weekend for Premiership Viewers

Simon Burke — Sat, 19 Aug 2006 14:48:00 -0000

Awesome - watching reading V Boro here and FSC has a ticker that displays scores - including the final score of this game at the bottom -quality FSC... lcukily i already knew it but if i didnt i would be pi*sed.

Re: Events Planned This Weekend for Premiership Viewers

Simon Burke — Mon, 21 Aug 2006 12:31:00 -0000

Gotta say the lack of recording is annoying - i too get a screensaver and have no idea what triggers it. I was fine all day Saturday but Sunday for United replay i had terrible buffering - so its hit and miss somewhat.

I think its worth more like a tenner a month than 15 as there are still issues with the feed.

Re: 3 Ways to Improve the Premiership Starting Today

Simon Burke — Tue, 05 Dec 2006 12:34:00 -0000

Gaffer - good post but I disagree with your first point. The removal of terracing has been great, hooliganism is down, incidents like Hillsborough cant happen and personally I prefer to sit for the most part of a game. I agree with having cheaper 'seating' not terracing to bring back fans.

I also agree goals scores should be the first tie-breaker but this wont encourage teams to push forward until the final 2 games of the season when they suddenly realise they need goals to enhance their league position.

I will give you my opinion on the 2 men who ruined attacking football for England -

a) Arsene Wenger. He did the impossible by turning Boring Boring Arsenal into exciting superfluid Arsenal. The rest of the league couldn't touch Arsenal at their best so the likes of Bolton and Blackburn came up with anti-football which sadly has become the norm, even United (barring this season) have resorted to kicking Arsenal a lot to get 'amongst them' as Sam Allardyce would say. Anti-football is used by most who play Arsenal and even those dour sides who play each other with it now. Frankly Bolton hurt my eyes and I cant watch them.

b) Roman Abramovich. He has created an unstoppable team with his 'Special One' - his bank account, not Maurinho. The perception is Chelsea are near unbeatable and teams celebrate a 0-0 draw with them like a World Cup Final win. Their success is built on the Wingless Wonders - 4 center midfielders who are like the anti-Madrid. Whereas Madrid had its Galacticos in years gone by and played stylish football back in 2000-2003, Chelsea have taken all their wealth and build a team of plodders and efficient engines - Robben and Cole struggle to get games in one of the dourest team formations ever seen. Last year they had wingers but played that painful 4-5-1.

Personally I want to outlaw 4-5-1.

My views: Prices need to go down, teams need greater rewards for attack (hence goals for is a great tiebreaker) and salary caps will have to be instituted to counter Chelsea's unfair dominance, either that or we all need Billionaires at the helms of the clubs - i would rather see a salary cap tied into average gates to keep sides like Watford and Bolton from suddenly winning the Premiership.

Re: 3 Ways to Improve the Premiership Starting Today

Simon Burke — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 10:13:00 -0000

Rio, i am hardly blaming Arsenal, i am an Arsenal fan. But I do think there has been a rise in extra defensive play to counter their style so in that respect Arsenal are a cause but at fault.

Re: Which Premiership Teams Will Be Relegated?

Simon Burke — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 11:45:00 -0000

Watford and Charlton will go -
a toss up for the rest - Boro, Newcastle, the Hammers and Sheffield United. Personally I hope its West Ham. But i fancy it will be Boro.

Re: Stage Is Set for Champions League & Prem Matches

Simon Burke — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 15:03:00 -0000

Just saw this elsewhere (the Nick and Steve bit) and am appalled. As an Arsenal fan I can honestly say this tool needs to be removed from his position. Those comments are dreadful and I am going to add my own comments to Fox as I hope everyone else does because that pratt might find it funny but those comments are way over the line. I never liked either of them to be honest as they are both muppets but this just cements it.

Re: Is the Premiership Race Over for Jose Mourinho?

Simon Burke — Mon, 11 Dec 2006 12:32:00 -0000

The race is 2 horse and if Chelsea lose 4-0 this week to Newcastle its still not over. Daft suggestion to think otherwise. CHelsea have the ability to win 15 in a row with their millions. Arsenal and Liverpool do not as much as I wish they could.

Re: Why Thierry Henry Must Go Now

Simon Burke — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 10:26:00 -0000

This is garbage from a journalist who purports garbage. THis is the same tool who used to find it boring when Arsenal outplayed teams into oblivion during the 49 game streak, he was hoping it would end as it was dull. He is clearly just spewing rubbish to fill up his 'journalistic' requirements. I agree Henry shouldnt be captain, thats fine, selling a player for being so arrogant that he wishes to end his career at a club is laughable. Henry can play better no question and he will - hopefully this journo can write better articles too.

Re: Pardew Breathes New Life Into Charlton FC

Simon Burke — Wed, 27 Dec 2006 10:29:00 -0000

Going to be interesting but i think West Ham were right to off Pardew who had his team playing dire football at the end - 4-0 to Bolton was brutal. Curbs is a good manager and is off toa good start, West Ham need a top striker to put the ball in the goal as they have too many near misses. Charlton I think are doomed, I like Pardew and think he is a good fit but feelwith the time he has left and the lack of funds that he wont be able to save them. They are a long way off safety right now and badly need to beat Fulham today.

Re: Premier League Considers Chelsea v Man Utd Showdown | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Thu, 28 Dec 2006 10:06:00 -0000

This is a good idea to have the top 2 play the last week - however i still think Chelsea will have the legaue pretty much won by then. Its going to be interesting.

Re: Can Liverpool Catch Chelsea?

Simon Burke — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 12:40:00 -0000

Having watched it i felt Liverpool were the better team in the first half though West Ham a couple of good efforts. They would have been encouraged to be level at half time as I felt Liverpool deserved a lead.

Re: Platini Proposes Five Referees

Simon Burke — Wed, 14 Feb 2007 12:51:00 -0000

I disagree strongly on this stonewall penalty that Flamini gave away. My first reaction was a penalty but on replay you see Heskey, a man twice Flamini's size throw himself to the ground. Touching someone isnt a penalty. Just as henry dived calllously in the first half, this was a dive too, heskey couldnt go over fast enough for my money and deservedly got nothing.

Re: Fox Soccer Channel Missing Out on Champions League

Simon Burke — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 13:56:00 -0000

Twd3lr
Where did you hear Setanta will be showing more choice games? Right now ia m happy as i have both ITVN and Setanta but i do not want to see Setanta get too much as i too like taping games and the quality on my TV is that bit better. Apparently Setanta are trying for the on demand for next season though I cant verify that, it was only what I heard - anyone know any more? Oliver???

Cheers,

Simon

Re: Latest Developments from Setanta Sports, GolTV and Fox Soccer Channel

Simon Burke — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 13:27:00 -0000

Excellent work Gaffer -
Questions to mull over:

1) I have ITVN - assuming they dont get their act together and broadcast things on demand (something they talked about once as reinstating), will ITVN SEtanta subscribers be able to use SEtanta Broadband? I wouldnt want to pay for Broadband if I am already paying for the channel on broadcast.

2) How do we get ITVN to broadcast the second 10am game live which airs on Setanta Extra? - The Setanta rep said ITVN could do it if they wanted. Arsenal have been in that slot a couple of times this year and I have had to hide away to 3pm to avoid it.

3) The Fox guy (Ed Gursky) suggested putting games on the web as they host some rights for the next 3 years, he gave no hard facts and if Setanta are delivering their EPL games online does this mean FSC actually have such rights. I hope so. I cant see FSC somehow ever being advanced enough to be on the web.

Re: The First Soccer Web Site I Ever Visited

Simon Burke — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 10:46:00 -0000

My first site was Carlingweb - but this has been a good stroll down memory lane - Compuserve, Mosaic (which I used in college back in 1994 and 5.) Sadly enough footy websites havent come that far since then, the availability of footy footage isnt exactly prevalent. I get my footy videos from youtube because the clubs have locked up their own footage behind subscriptions. Only football365.com with its video news has really shown innovation. Here's hoping the next 10 years sees some real advancement. (Also i live outside the UK these days so I dont get to access all Sky's goodies so i cant speak to them).

Re: Toronto Tickets to Aston Villa Friendly Cause a Stir

Simon Burke — Thu, 17 May 2007 11:36:00 -0000

Gareth Barry = world class? hardly. He isnt an England regular, he is a decent left back at a mid level club - world class talent gets picked up by CHampions League teams. John Carew is past his best and Martin Laursen is like Mellberg was - a decent defender but not world class.

I a English, live in DC and tickets for the Galaxy game are only available in packs right now and when they eventually have to release just individual match tickets for Beckham's arrival I would be curious to see what they charge for a Thursday night game. I shant pay above the odds for a fella I have seen play many times in England.

Re: Toronto Tickets to Aston Villa Friendly Cause a Stir

Simon Burke — Fri, 18 May 2007 13:01:00 -0000

To the fella who called me a 'dude' above and is merely a person hiding behind an anonymous posting - let me explain why Gareth Barry isn't paying at the top 4. Simple - they haven't bid for him. Chelsea offered how much for him? Nothing. United. nothing.. etc etc.. Loyalty aside and I am sure he is loyal, he isn't playing for England - how many caps has he had? Sorry but if he was truly 'World class' a term I reserve for players like Ronaldo, Henry, Gerrard, Ronaldinho, Kaka.. then he would be receiving offers from the Barcelonas, the Uniteds of this world. He isn't. He isn't world class - World class is a term people like you throw around to describe players at middling clubs that tinkered with relegation this year.
Carew was better 5 years ago than he is now - that's what past his prime means. His prime is his optimum, his peak. For him it was back in Valencia.

The true World Class talent that Villa have is the manager, Martin O Neill is excellent and I am envious there - if anyone can bring in World Class talent to Villa it will be him and Lerner's money.

I can name 4 managers in the Premier League who will tell you Gareth Barry doesn't belong in a top 4 side - the 4 that haven't ever bid for him. Chelsea are willing to throw 24 million pounds at Shaun Wright Phillips, Gallas plus 5 for Ashley Cole... when they needed a left back - they didn't bother with Gareth Barry.

Arsenal to replace Cole - didn't bother with Barry, they developed Cliché. United have Evra and Heinze - they don't bother with Barry. Liverpool have any number of left backs - not one of them is Gareth Barry. Sorry mate, that's your facts and I am happy to put my name on them Mr. Anonymous.

Re: Toronto Tickets to Aston Villa Friendly Cause a Stir

Simon Burke — Sun, 20 May 2007 15:08:00 -0000

http://football.stats.com/epl/players.asp?playe... back he is.

And obviously can play left mid as well.

Re: No Real Winners in Galaxy v Chelsea Charade

Simon Burke — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 13:09:00 -0000

Shocking coverage. I watched it cos Chelsea were playing, I hate Chelsea but wanted to see how they were warming up and it was free and in a game of 'consequence' due to the side issue of Beckham.
However Beckham was the ONLY issue according to ESPn - split screen at times so I could see Beckham tie his shoe - interviews OVER the match itself... dreadful.

All around embarrassing as a sports spectacle but if that's what Beckham combined with Hollywood combined with soccer means then so be it. The US needs to promote soccer and is taking its chance. I found it horrific but if thousands of others get interested then the job was done right. I couldn't watch a shambles of coverage like that every week. ESPN put aside the soccer to focus on one player, like half the planet has done - they catered to those people so in other words catered to the bulk of their audience. I suspect people here prefer soccer/football (whichever, does it matter) and just had a good laugh when Sidwell clattered a fella who shouldn't even have been out there and instead resting for bigger matches to come.

Re: It’s Official: Setanta Signs Deal with DISH Network

Simon Burke — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 10:19:00 -0000

Gaffer excellent news - alas its not helping me but its a good step in the right direction. Now if only Comcast can follow suit and get rid of one of its 97 MTV channels to give me one Setanta!

Re: It’s Official: Setanta Signs Deal with DISH Network

Simon Burke — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 14:33:00 -0000

Didnt realise ITVN was moving on.
I watched the Arsenal V Inter game last week on there, first time i have used it since season ended and i found it had actually improved possibly in conjunction with the firmware upgrade - the bandwidth used was up to 13.5 Megs...whereas last season it was about 11 on the highest setting.

But thats some pre-season friendly. I am now scared that when it comes to the first week of the Premiership when demand is high that I am going to be watching plenty of that feared 'Buffering' ...

If ITVN are silent that cant be a good sign.

Re: Fox Soccer Channel’s Coverage of 07/08 EPL Season

Simon Burke — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 16:06:00 -0000

Terrible answer to the line ups - and yes it is often 5 or 6 minutes of delay - he says its just a minute.

The Beckham answer is hilarious too. We dont want to see him play but we want to see the man himself. He has a nice smile. What a load of drivel. I just want to see the man kick a ball - and nothing else.

Delighted the ticker is gone forever from EPL games, that thing was either a spoiler or spitting out data which was out of date.

No interest in their 90 minute Sunday show which shows all the action from their various leagues (Italy/England/USL/MLS/Argentina) in one show. I am a snob and would either want an EPL show, an MLS show .. i dont go in for mixing - its then just a poorly organised hodgepodge.

One thing I am confused by is the broadband - they are basically showing the lesser game that weekend which TV hasnt picked up (Arsenal V Fulham in the first week though i believe thats a 7am Eastern Time Sunday match). They refuse to announe their charges however... its getting close.

Also they mention that FSC owns broadband highlight packages for a Monday morning watercooler environment but did anyone catch if thats free on foxsoccer.com or only if you pay for broadband access - i assume its the former, at least i hope so.

Re: Fox Soccer Channel’s Coverage of 07/08 EPL Season

Simon Burke — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 12:41:00 -0000

As an Arsenal fan i want to see Fulhma on Sunday at 7am but like hell am i paying for it - its bad enough we have Setanta and FSC on different packages to pay for , now they want to milk a third outlet. No chance. Sopcast or TVAnts for me. Vote with your wallets guys.
Gaffer can you do a post looking at the comparisons between Setanta Broadband and ITVN Setanta. Or even on outlook for ITVN?

Re: 2007/2008 Premier League Predictions | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 12:48:00 -0000

1 United
2 Chelsea

3 Liverpool

4 Arsenal

---

17 Birmingham

18 Wigan

19 Derby

20 Middlesbrough

First sacked: Southgate

FA CUp - Arsenal

Rubbish Cup - Liverpool

CL - Barcelona

Re: The Gaffer: It’s Good to be Back

Simon Burke — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 12:50:00 -0000

SPOILERS BELOW GAFFER IF YOU HAVENT YET CAUGHT UP...

-----

Gaffer

Good to have you back, I kept flicking back for Prem updates from you and now the mystery is answered. Thankfully you're in good form.

Missed a great weekend, Gerrard late stunner, Spurs never got started, Arsenal had the game of the weekend... Its going to be a fantastic season.

Like your outlook for the blog - the bits you are focussing on are definitely very useful to me.

Re: Fox Soccer Match Day: Two Thumbs Up

Simon Burke — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 12:56:00 -0000

Interesting Gaffer but I am slightly disappointed in the show. I thought it looked very professional - Andy and Christian were dressed up like GQ fellas and the presentation was stylish.
But I thought it was very bland.

It felt like watching Sky Sports News but with not enough highlights. Too much focussing on them and they had little of real interest to say and had no banter. Bit dull. I just got around listening to your podcast with Rodney Marsh and his comments about today's pundits being bland was spot on based on that show.

In that first half hour (and correct me if i am wrong) - they managed to get in some Beckham news. Why? He doesnt play for Man City or West Ham. He wasnt set to play Saturday at all and as it happened he didnt play Sunday. Keep that half hour (or 15 mins as you suggest) to the coming match at hand or the EPL. Focuse on MLS later in the afternoon.

Re: Relax, Don’t Do It When The Premier League Comes

Simon Burke — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:07:00 -0000

Whoa - this is so poor. I have never liked this guy's writings over at 365 - dont let this tool pollute your site Gaffer. Grim indeed.

Re: No Worries for Man Utd After Portsmouth Draw

Simon Burke — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 19:27:00 -0000

Shocking start for United 2 draws, plenty of players to bed in....no Rooney ... Ronaldo 3 game ban... oh - and a flying City away next. Tough times. They need a good run and possibly a favour from Liverpool.

Re: Relax, Don’t Do It When The Premier League Comes

Simon Burke — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 19:28:00 -0000

I would be a prudish Englishman - its a crap article on any side of the Atlantic.

Re: Sky Sports’s Through The Night Gets a Makeover

Simon Burke — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 08:35:00 -0000

I am not a fan of the new music, I have a feeling it was lifted from Lord of the Rings and its just too over the top for me, the old music was perfect for me.

Re: Feel Extra Sorry for EPL Managers This Season

Simon Burke — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 21:35:00 -0000

Tell that to Sammy Lee as when Anelka bolts this week he will have little chance of turning them round.. I had Southgate dowon for first sacking but Boros cheap win this weekend means he will probably escape going first.
Jol if he loses to Man U next week is in serious trouble - if he wins he should be alright..

Re: GolTV Pass on Arsenal TV and Liverpool TV

Simon Burke — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 12:57:00 -0000

Arsenal TV was rubbish, i am a gooner and I can happily say it was crap. I dont like any of the clubcentric stations - all very biased. Would rather impartial real time match coverage.

Re: England’s National Team Is In Crisis | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 11:07:00 -0000

to be fair England played very well yesterday - created bags of chances (Owen and Dyer each should have scored) and we were beat on 2 bizarre German goals that happen once every 30 years.
I have berated McLaren in the past but not for yesterday. We were entertaining, Germany didnt get into our half for the first 22 minutes and we created a lot.

We had a couple of missed tackles, one freak cross , one long range bomb and we have somehow lost in a game where there about 55 substitutions - in a friendly between 2 under strength teams.

I am not worried. I was actually entertained for a change watching England.

Radio 5, Football365 and this muppet are all digging the knife in needlessly.

Re: GolTV’s Fitting Tribute to 11-Year-Old Rhys Jones

Simon Burke — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 14:35:00 -0000

Ray Hudson is basically John Motson on crack who clearly stays up night practicing his quotes in the mirror.
I personally cant stand his commentary but i will grant you its unique and energetic. Does he know his stuff? Debatable - some his bias comes flying out and i remember some of his great quotes during the Cope match between Argentina and the US. He at one point said "There's no greater Argentine fan on the planet than me" - this despite crowing about how well the US were outplaying them for a good 70 minutes. Final score Argentina won 4-1.

He is too loud, talks too much and i grant you he has the occasional funny saying but overall give me Martin Tyler, Gary O Neill, John Motson any day...

Re: GolTV’s Fitting Tribute to 11-Year-Old Rhys Jones

Simon Burke — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 19:37:00 -0000

Whats that about a La Liga rights problem? They are good for this coming season right?? Maybe.. hopefully...

Re: Liverpool Shows Tottenham How To Do It | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 01:18:00 -0000

I love Spurs fans, so fickle. So clueless. Jol has worked wonders and in honesty you battered Fulham today and were unlucky. It happens, you were unlucky against United too so sack him.. ???
If he is guilty of one thing its that he made Keane captain. He is a fine player but he is one Jol pulls off before 90 mins, you shouldbt have a captain that is so often subbed - Keane was unhapy to come off and Spurs led 3-1 before it..

Re: Liverpool Shows Tottenham How To Do It | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 10:46:00 -0000

Aye, i feel sorry for you Derby fans - going to be a long season. I think Arsenal are in your near future at the Emirates too which cant be a good thing. Good luck this season.

Re: Day of Reckoning for EPL Four Horse Race

Simon Burke — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 11:29:00 -0000

I dont mind if the top 4 dont change as long as its a top four we are talking about and not a top 2 by Xmas.
I'll be stunned if the top 4 win this week - Chelsea have the easy tie - Blackburn at home - and thats not easy.

Its a great weekend - I have my viewing plan set up but am hoping Setanta dont give me the Liverpool score during United match and they probably will.

PLaying these teams has nothing to do with Champions League however - if anything it detracts from their preparations for the midweek European games.

Re: Do You Fit The Stereotype Soccer Fan?

Simon Burke — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 18:37:00 -0000

Aye FSC viewers have created the housing crash!!!
Thanks Countrywide for enabling us!

Re: Talk About Exodus By Chelsea Players Is Despicable

Simon Burke — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:00:00 -0000

I disagree GAffer - players do this all the time - being an Arsenal fan i hear about half the team committing to Wenger every year and read in articles that if Wenger leaves they will...
World class players are still world class despite their morality.

Unfortunately money and player power is to such an extent that they can get away with it. I am deligthed this is happening to Chelsea - Maurinho may be a 'character' but ask Anders Frisk about him. Ask Reading FC who Maurinho claimed made little effort to help Cech when in fact Chelsea turned down an initial medical offer.

Chelsea with all its money now in turmoil. Sometimes there is a footballing God.

Unfortunately the Chelsea model is the near term future for a lot of clubs, possibly Arsenal too. I dont like it and think that your income should directly relate to your expenditure as it always used to.

Re: Americans Invading the English Premier League

Simon Burke — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 17:07:00 -0000

Marcotti absolutely loves himself and thinks he knows everything - his appearances however on Steve Bunce's The Rumour Mill (BBC Radio 5, now defunct show) showed up his 'knowledge' as being that of another transfer expert journo who in reality knew as much as we all did from reading the backpages. He kept touting Lampard to Barcelona as a done deal all last Summer - never happened. Also Torres to Man U was his other dead cert that he kept banging on about. I dont put a lot of stock in him.

Re: Exorbitant Ticket Prices Fuels Arsenal’s Success

Simon Burke — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 11:36:00 -0000

Gaffer you are both right and wrong. Its always futile to put the cost of English goods into dollars - its exaggerating prices in the home nation to do that.

Example: A Compact Disc there costs 10 pounds which would often cost 10 dollars here - not 20 dollars.

You also probably picked the wrong club to make an example of as Arsenal are without a doubt one of the 3 most entertaining clubs in Europe in terms of style and current results so people might be happy and willing to pay these very high prices for games. A gentleman above says its what the market bears and he is correct, Arsenal are technically undervaluing their tickets with such high demand clearly evident. Its just the state of the world and the Premiership. I went to Reading 4 years ago in the CHampionship and had to pay 20 quid to sit in the corner of the Madjeski - thats steep for non Prem I feel but thats the norm.

However Gaffer I know what sentiment you are trying to bring here and I somewhat agree, its very expensive for a family of 4 to go to a game. Too expensive in my opinion and Arsenal even charge you to be a member (you need to be a member to have a prayer of getting a ticket) - so you have paid before you even purchase a ticket. They also charge one pound for a merchandise program in the Arsenal shop at the stadium - seriously folk do you want to pay a pound for the privilege of seeing Van Persie dressed up in an Arsenal sweater and then buy the sweater. Thats just poor in my opinion. Merchandise catalogues should be FREE - Arsenal can afford it.

Dont get me wrong, I am a former Arsenal ballboy and love the club and would never support anyone else. The quality is awesome.

I think you want to ask this question after the Wenger years Gaffer when the football is unlikely to be as high quality. Would Arsenal fans be willing to pay the same high prices to watch the cra* that Spurs put out? Its inevitable we will go through a lean time and find out - hopefully long after I am gone.

Also a few people had some very juvenile comments above - very unecessary. You can disagree certainly but no need to be petulant like John Terry.

Incidentally folk for those of you who think the Gaffer hates Arsenal - he did pick us to win the league last season, mad pick mind you but he did pick them which is more than I did.

Re: Top 11 Managers to Replace Bolton’s Sammy Lee

Simon Burke — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 10:36:00 -0000

You missed the current favourite off the list, Gary megson who is working at lEicester without a contract....
He'll likely get it and thats another uninspiring name.

Lets face it, only Hoddle there has any class (love him or hate him), the rest are dour.

Re: Nike to buy Umbro in $580 Million Deal

Simon Burke — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:23:00 -0000

These kits are 'awesome' , what are you complaining about....

Shudders - they are hideous.

Re: Will Man Utd’s Riyadh Trip Expose Hypocrisy?

Simon Burke — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 11:26:00 -0000

I am not sure this is really relevant in terms of where the game is played - the fact is wherever it was played that it’s a huge distance and probably ill advised as the FA Cup is up and running, the games come thick and fast at the back end of December and fatigue is an issue. As an Arsenal fan I am delighted by this announcement and I am sure United fans are not too thrilled with the prospect of such a daft fixture. ITs Glazier greed whether it’s in Saudi Arabia or New York - I couldn’t care less beyond the timing of the game and the possible benefits to us :)

---

As for rotation, I can’t answer this without showing bias but the simple fact for me is - America hosted the World Cup in 1994. You don’t deserve it again for a few more years yet. I don’t see why America thinks that it’s the next COncacaf nation to host the cup, you were the LAST Concacaf reps and so shouldn’t it be Canada's turn or back to Mexico? (they have hosted it twice so I am dead opposed to them getting it).

England started the game, has only hosted it once and it would be wrong if America hosts it twice in 24 years whereas we will have then hosted it only once since the tournament's inception in 1930.

Americans have gotten used to hosting the Olympics so often and have forgotten that it shouldn’t work that way. I doubt America will get it before 2034 and think that’s perfectly fair. If Canada want it you shouldn’t get a sniff. China are likely to get it in the 2020's and a joint bid from Uruguay/Argentina in 2030 leaving only one open slot before 2034. Egypt/Holland/Spain will all feel they can bid for 2026 along with a Concacaf nation who if its Canada should get preference over America assuming they can get the stadia right.

Re: Top 10 Favorite Soccer Podcasts

Simon Burke — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 11:55:00 -0000

Five live football daily and the guardian are top of my list - i cant stand Marcotti's self adoring style. Sportsweek is great as Richardson always asks the tough questions and is antagonistic and 6-0-6 is a laugh if you want to hear morons phone in and butcher the English language. I enjoy it for when SPurs or United lose and their fans call in demanding change or Alex to go etc..

Re: Top 10 Most Visited Soccer Websites in the UK

Simon Burke — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 11:01:00 -0000

I hate Arsenal's website, its just a marketing opportunity and very biased at that (the lack of coverage and speculation surrounding Henry's impending exit typifies it) - just shows you the average football fan cant see past marketing and bias. Disappointing. I cant speak to Liverpools site but my mate raves about it.

Re: Only a Matter of Time Before Berbatov Leaves Spurs

Simon Burke — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 12:13:00 -0000

I think Spurs would part with him due to Berb's own wantaway attitude (thats my opinion mind you, not substantiated proof!).
If he wants out and he doesnt look like he has enjoyed this season at all, then Spurs would be wise to let him go as I think he's turned into poison for them - I reckon they could get 16 mill for them (Spurs hold out forever historically) and thats probably good for all concerned. I cant see United taking him at this point however and see him either going to Chelsea or abroad.

Re: Dempsey and Dolan On Song for Setanta Sports

Simon Burke — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 16:03:00 -0000

I agree with everything here except for anyone praising Tim Sherwood who ranks up there with the all time worst pundits. He is so bitter and deluded that he gets a point and just runs with it. THe home based programs are always better than the FSC based stuff which is passable and at least doesnt have GOL TV's English nightmare: Ray Hudson.
I love proper half time chat in games, something we lack here :(

Re: Dempsey and Dolan On Song for Setanta Sports

Simon Burke — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:54:00 -0000

I disagree Corey as in England we also get blanket coverage before and at half time, we are berating the quality of it here as its so studioised and bland. The pre Premiership show at 9.30 ET on a Saturday has analysis but its boring, its so bland - I dont think FSC with a higher budget would be any less boring but would just haev more horrible graphics like FOx's ridiculously over the top NFL Coverage where player lineups look like they are in spaceships...

Re: 5 Mistakes MyFootballClub Made On Day One

Simon Burke — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 10:40:00 -0000

This is all very interesting as its certainly a precedent.
However I read that fans/members can vote on formations and transfers... this I find to be a disaster waiting to happen. But lets sit back and see what happens.

ONe thing that is disappointing is myfc never contacted the Ebbsfield Supporters Trust - is it right for fairweather fans to have bypassed the true fans of the club? If this was a big club there would be outrage.

Re: Injury Crisis for England and Chelsea: EPL Talk TV

Simon Burke — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 12:29:00 -0000

Gaffer I tend to agree with you but I think you are harsh on McClaren and previous managing appointments. I always thought Sven was fine - 3 Quarter finals suddenly looks like he over acheived. McClaren is being forced to play people who cant start for their clubs due to the decreasing English players in the Premiership. I dont think any manager could get around this issue. Injuries to Beckham and Heskey have shown just how light England is on talent as we havent adequately replaced them. Our full team is pretty good but our overall squad isnt and no country ever seems to field their best 11 due to injury/suspension - our squad isnt good enough, our technical skills arent high enough and in 4 years we could be seeing several of our squad being drawn from the Championship while people continue to slate whatever manager is involved.

This isnt to say I think McClaren is the best there is but he may have been the best available - Scolari said no. Curbishley wouldnt have been any better, O NEill would have been my pick but didnt get it. Maurinho would be everyone's favourite to do it now as he knows English football well and has coached the Chelsea contingent but I dont know if he could get us to WC 2012 when we are so lightweight across the squad.

I think McCLaren will stay on. Who else is available that you'd have if Maurinho doesnt want it.

Re: Jack Bell is a Wanker

Simon Burke — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 10:50:00 -0000

Good debate this, the article is written by a muppet in honesty but I can see why an American soccer channel should be more American. ESPN presents its coverage in a more American manner and frankly I hate it, I think the Americans on FSC are very good (and the Canadians) and yes they are modelled on the British way of doing it but its more in depth than ESPN's coverage which is all glitz and shouting. ESPN's Europeans however are better than their American counterparts (come on, Julie Foudy? Eric Wynalda?)but that may just be personal preference.
Gaffer is right in that the EPL doesnt clash with MLS in terms of time so air them both (which they do). The Americans tend to overly focus on Americans in the EPL so Bell's argument isnt great here either. Also I know several Americans who cheer on England - most now support America finally (this wasnt always the case) but a lot cheer England as a second team. You can make soccer more American in its lingo here but that doesnt mean te product will be any better - I dread to think what Bell would think of Ray Hudson who i cant stand and is an example of terrible British commentating.

Re: BBC, ITV & Channel 4 Provide Hope to Soccer Fans

Simon Burke — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 10:48:00 -0000

Gaffer I pray this one day becomes true but i cant see it. I am sure I will log in happily hoping only to be told, "due to licensing restrictions....cue crap techno music and message of you cant see this broadcast outside of the UK". I can only hope however.
Keep up the good work here.

Re: 46% Want Harry Redknapp as Next England Manager

Simon Burke — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 10:53:00 -0000

I like Harry and he likes people to play proper football but can he get it out of players schooled in the hoof it 50 yards and run (i am looking at you Gerrard!).
My first pick is Maurinho but he wont take it when there are millions waiting for him at Barcelona/Madrid. My secon pick Hiddink , how he only has 1% i have no idea, he is a fabulous international manager. Thirdly Capello, proven at all levels of the game, Italian so you know he can defend and pass. Just dont know if we could dive up to his standards :)

I like Shearer but having seen Stan at Ireland I cant think its a good idea and inexperienced Van Basten is getting chopped at Holland before July.

I like Harry, he's good with the media but does he deserve to be pilloried by the ignorant skinhead culture of England who boo everyone's anthems before games? I would stay far clear if i were him as I would hate to see him join the ranks of other decent men who have become hated during the time: Bobby Robson, Kevin Keegan, Graham Taylor and Sir Alf Ramsey.

Re: Derby County Sack Billy Davies

Simon Burke — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 10:56:00 -0000

Cant see anyone saving Derby - Billy Davies as said by Wenger was sacked for overacheiving. Come on, he came up via the play offs and then what - was exposed as weak in the Premiership? Of course. His squad should never have came up in honesty and then to slaughter him is unfair.
THis does by the way show the inequity of the transfer market. An new man (rumoured to be Ince) will come in and have to wait till Jan 1 to bring in players. This is hardly far on the manager or the club - chances are they will relegated by then. I feel for Davies, I dont think any manager could keep the current players up.

Re: Memo to Fox Soccer Channel: 5 Ways to Improve FSC

Simon Burke — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 11:26:00 -0000

Well said Hudsonland - i think a good majority of fans here appreciate its roots and actually like the internationalism of the coverage. Someone said Bretos is the best thing on the channel - whereas he has greatly improved over the last 3 years he isnt yet the best thing on the channel - but he is now tolerable and I appreciate his enthusiasm whereas I used to think he was an uneducated muppet like Lionel Bienvenue. Shudders at the thought of him ever returning!

Re: The Premier League Manager Merry-go-round

Simon Burke — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 12:17:00 -0000

I like Fulham but think they will only stay up as others are so bad. I do not rate Dempsey (and sorry i am English) but i have a lot of time for McBride. I also think while Bocanegra works hard that he is a petulant thug with a limited skillset. If Healy can get going it will be great - otherwise they need to rely heavily on ANti Niemi as that defence in front of him is shipping chances like there's no tomorrow. MLS players I have nothing against but I dont think they have exactly done well at Fulham asides from McBride who has been a great servant to the club.

Re: Things You Always Wanted to Ask Guillem Balague

Simon Burke — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 12:51:00 -0000

Ask him why when appearing on Steve Bunce's the Rumour Mill (now defunct) on BBC Radio 5 he kept saying Lamps to Barcelona from Chelsea was a done deal, guaranteed... every week and yet 18 months on he's still a Chelsea player.
Just kidding - you want him to like you. (though he said it every week!)

Re: Benitez is No Longer The Right Man for Liverpool

Simon Burke — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 11:59:00 -0000

I have to agree here with MJ - Liverpool have had loads of money to spend - you may indeed have made good money on players sold but you have still spent a lot and bought in a lot of talent to replace those that Benitez sold.
This is very much his team now and your performance at home was poor this weekend and you were poor at home against Arsenal who you held to a draw but should have lost to. Chelsea you should have beaten but for all the talk of bad reffing it has to be said you got that back when you robbed Everton. I will give you 3 for Chelsea but I will take all three off you for Everton.

Rafa is counting the cost of the draws with Portsmouth and Birmingham and his capitulation v Reading where he took off his best 3 players.

As for money, you cite United but look at Wenger, he has made money this year, bought in just 2 players this Summer and we are top. (Yes I am a gooner and I like Liverpool as I hate Chelsea and United). Wenger has shown by good tactics and scouting that money isn’t necessarily everything. Benitez has had lots of money and has a huge squad yet he can’t maintain a serious title run it seems. I haven’t written you all yet but I think you are too brittle to put together the 10 game winning streak it will now take. For that matter I think Arsenal are too but we won’t need such a streak thankfully as we are still top.

As for CL - I think it’s tough to win no question and you have beaten some great teams but it’s easier to win a cup than a league. If the CL was a true league I think you'd be found out. Instead you do very well in two-off games where your fanatical support raises your team to great heights. Clearly though over the course of the season you are getting found out too often. Benayoun and Kuyt arent quite of the standard to play against United - you are players short but Rafa bought both of them so is it Rafa's fault? Can you blame injuries - Arsenal have missed Van Persie/Hleb and Fabregas and we are still just about top. United missed Ronaldo and Rooney early on but they are still there at the top. You have enough players to cover I feel as your squad is enormous. If anything it may be too big and players are suffering as a result. I wouldn’t say Rafa out but at the same time you can’t make the case that he has brought Premiership success. It really is about time Liverpool seriously challenged - you are good enough.

Re: Benitez is No Longer The Right Man for Liverpool

Simon Burke — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:06:00 -0000

I doubt Maurinho would come in because whereas it would be audacious I dont think the fans would want him. He is going to end up at Milan or one of the Spanish sides I expect though he's not popular in Spain really.
I can see Rafa leaving of his own accord this Summer - lets see what actually happens with transfers this coming window. Maybe Rafa should just coach what he has.... daft thought I know :)

Re: Premier League Best of 2007 Lists

Simon Burke — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:18:00 -0000

Have to agree with MJ -
Portsmouth are most improved.

The 4-3 West Ham match was outstanding.

Best goal... Adebayor monster volley to beat Spurs 3-1.

2008... Drogba to leave Chelsea and Rafa to leave Pool (not sacked).

Re: Where to Find Arsenal TV & Liverpool TV

Simon Burke — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:29:42 -0000

Club TV is shocking crap. As a gooner i can see through the rubbish we put out and lets face it its all just branding - i habve enough other things in my week to do so couldnt care less about any form of club TV. Classic matches is about it , the rest is simply mindnumbing filler.

Re: Don’t Let Dave Kitson Ruin Your FA Cup Fever

Simon Burke — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:32:52 -0000

Kitson isnt wrong, he just isnt right. The fans love the FA Cup and i have seen some great stuff this weekend , not least Stoke v Newcastle which was terrific despite being goalless. Burnley have us a hard game this morning and yesterday all those upsets. Kitsons own team pulled off a memorable score. I dont care if he hates the cup or not, a lot of players need to focus on the league - thats the price of league overexposure, its SO much more important than the FA Cup. Great entertainment though though cant understand why i'd have to pay for some of these games - madness that.

Re: Should the Premiership Have Playoffs?

Simon Burke — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:08:00 -0000

Interesting one this - I see the sentiment behind it and whereas I disagree and more importantly know it will never happen, I think the idea is well thought out.

One thing Michael - how many teams to you think have nothing to play for at the end?
I'll list what you list:
Liverpool
Blackburn
Portsmouth (in the league)
Manchester City
West Ham
Tottenham
Newcastle
Middlesbrough
Sunderland

Sunderland and Boro got out of trouble within the last week so that excludes them.
Man City and Portsmouth have only just been excluded from 5th - Pompey blew it this Saturday. I'd say your list there is really 5. Boro werent clear by the 29th game as you mention above in a typcial season.

Some fella aboves mentions the Patriots and Giants - he's right. The Giants negated the whole
NFL Season to me - they split a game each but the Pats lost only one game and have really nothing to show for it. The GIants were lucky to even be in the playoffs and won it all. They arent the best team.
At least 3 teams competed for the title this year, and Liverpool should have - thats an improvement over recent years. I wouldnt change the league structure.

If people were to do it and the TOP TWELVE qualified that would be too many. Christ, if a club like Wigan put together a decent run of penalty shoot out wins they'd win it. This wouldnt be good for anyone outside of Wigan (sorry Wigan fans).

Of all the ills in football I dont think this is the worst right now - diving, agents, high prices, defensive football, Mike Reilly being allowed to ref at Old Trafford - these are the real crisis'...

Re: Which Reading, Birmingham & Derby Players Would You Rescue From The Drop?

Simon Burke — Wed, 14 May 2008 13:36:48 -0000

They are all poor.
Nah, I think Kitson and Doyle from reading would have done better with a better midfield behind them.
McFadden and Miller are in a similar situation, Miller is a bit small though so he'd lose out for me.

GIles Barnes gets touted a lot but I have seen nothing to suggest he is any good but when you have a poor team around you its hard to look good.

Ridgewell and Stubbs are horrendous - none of the keepers are worth having, Taylor was good a couple of years back . Bikey tosses over the medical staff so is clearly insane.

Very hard to take any 11 of these and form a team that would stay up - Shorey is about it plus the 3 aforementioned strikers. Zurate scored a few but a 4 game hot streak requires a better examination.

Seb Larsson should be doing better than he is so maybe he's just not that good and thats why Wenger let him go.

Re: Manchester United–The Champions of Europe | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Wed, 21 May 2008 21:59:58 -0000

Congrats to Chelsea my arse - I am delighted they lost. Seeing that cheat Drogba's last contribution to English football was delightful.
Was it brave to send up Terry for a pen to win it all or STUPID? Seriously Terry - you wouldnt send up ..say Kalou, a atriker with some technical skill. Half of England will be delighted to have seen that thug miss. Crazy choice for a 5th pen. Nothing brave about it.
I am no United fan but they deserved to win over the course of the season, I dont think they were the better team on the night though.
Seeing Chelsea send up that smarmy muppet Kenyon only to then be outdone by us all seeing Sir Bobby lead up United - thats the difference between class, United have it - Chelsea dont. Sorry Chelsea fans - Kenyon took his medal all smiles - Sir Bobby was sensible enough to refuse wearing his because he exemplifies true sportsmanship. Congrats United - when Cristiano "5 hours to take a crap penalty" Ronaldo leaves you in 2 weeks (listen to his interview he gave the BBC where he promises NOTHING to the United supporters) - then
we'll see what you have in reserve next year...

Re: ESPN Deserves Praise For Excellent Champions League Coverage

Simon Burke — Thu, 22 May 2008 08:16:59 -0000

Rae was excellent, always is. Tommy wasnt as bad as usual. I didnt like Seedorf - his commentary was a bit obvious and I think it was clear english wasnt his first language and he forgot Maloudas name... that said he went and did the second half in Spanish so he is clearly smarter than the average footballer. I think ESPN did a decent job as well - stayed to the presentations which was nice and the coverage was pretty good.

Re: Carlos Bocanegra Released By Fulham

Simon Burke — Sat, 24 May 2008 10:25:07 -0000

American will qualify fine for the WC - the region is so poor that its inconceivable that Mexico and the US wont get there at the end of it all.

Re: Goodbye, Avram Grant

Simon Burke — Sat, 24 May 2008 19:12:27 -0000

Terrible assessment .
You inherit a squad that WAS DOING BADLY from a manager that played DIRE FOOTBALL.
You take them to an inch of winning the Champions League, against all odds of nearly winning the Premiership and then are sacked.

Remember - he was managing muppets like Drogba, Terry and Lampard who all think they are bigger than the club and have a right as to how they think it should be run. Good luck to him, he has taken horrible abuse from media and supporters alike. We'll see what replaces him , probably Hiddink - perhaps Rijkaard. No-one else in my opinion.

terribly treated by a classless club that sends up its parasite, Peter Kenyon to collect a medal from Platini. Dreadful dreadful club. Chelsea fans , no offense but would you have sacked him ?? I think he won a lot of you over in the last few weeks - and Chelsea fans, werent you embarrassed to see Kenyon collect a medal. I am a gooner and had someone horrible like that Russian Ushmanov gone up and collected a medal ahead of Cesc and co, i would be mortified.

Re: Goodbye, Avram Grant

Simon Burke — Sat, 24 May 2008 19:14:11 -0000

PS) He beat Arsenal and United and Liverpool Michael - the big games - one CL semi, the other 2 in the league. They are big games , he won them. He lost other big games, so did Wenger and Fergie.

Re: Chelsea Fires Avram Grant After 8 Months as Manager

Simon Burke — Sat, 24 May 2008 19:15:20 -0000

Agreeed, best of luck to Grant, he has been very hard done and I hope is well compensated. West Ham may be the first on the phone. Good luck Avram.

Re: Goodbye, Avram Grant

Simon Burke — Sun, 25 May 2008 09:41:00 -0000

Agreed Ivan - most wrote Chelsea off at the stage Maurinho was let go and Grant opened with a 2-0 win at OT. He proved everyone wrong. There has been a miedia outcry in England laughing at Chelsea for this decision as I expected there would be. Grant in the last few weeks has produced big results - across the season with a team of "we're all leaving's" he has done something remarkable.
As for them not being more attractive under Grant, I'd say they were about the same - but look at what he had - a defensively minded long ball team that hoofs it to Drogba. He at least got them playing crosses for Ballack. With a Summer of actual signings he may have changed things further - all speculation of course.

Michael did you say that Terry as captain of the club should have a say in how its run? Do you play football - have you ever gone up to the boss and said I want us to sign this fella, cna you play Anelka on the wing today...
Rafa doesnt take any of it from Gerrard - Capello doesnt even rate captains. I highly doubt Rio voices his thoughts over those of Sir Alex.

End of the day Chelsea are run by a maniac who can do what he wants and has. All these players who are 'going to leave' will see what money the will make when they go elsewhere - not easy to find those Chelsea wages in Serie A...
Some of these players wont be leaving, they are going to be pushed.

Michael care to backtrack on your comment of he never won the big games? Despite beating Liverpool and United in the same 5 day period and coming from behind to beat Arsenal and being ONE inch away from winning the CL on 3 occasions (Drogba/Lampard/Terry).
What were the big games ? Wigan - the Worthless Cup final? No its United/Chelsea and Liverpool.

Re: Goodbye, Avram Grant

Simon Burke — Sun, 25 May 2008 09:41:18 -0000

oops - and Arsenal!

Re: Goodbye, Avram Grant

Simon Burke — Sun, 25 May 2008 17:08:28 -0000

Hmm i meant to say 2-0 loss to United- poor English on my part but again i ask you to take back Grant doesnt win the big games - Arsenal, united and Liverpool .
He won them ...

Re: It’s Official (Finally): Setanta Sports USA Launching On Verizon FiOS In July

Simon Burke — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 08:47:24 -0000

great fr me but the fella above with his ESPN commentary is probably spot on....

Re: Julie Foudy: You Are ESPN’s Weakest Link, Goodbye!

Simon Burke — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:11:35 -0000

She hasnt been too bad and Kartik is right, its not surprising to have an American or two in the coverage - we are lucky its not Marcelo Balboa and the likes of Wynalda.
Julie has been fine - so she doesnt know as much as Andy Gray but she does know as much as Tommy Smyth.
I have no complaints with her really. All in all ESPN havent done too bad a job and there is an awful lot worse than her out there they could have picked. Its an American network - be thankful you have it at all and its not PPV like the last one.

PS) Henry scored one goal in 2 games against tough teams. A one in two ratio is pretty good at the best of times - and one of those games he played on a team with 10 men against the best defense in the world.

Re: Julie Foudy: You Are ESPN’s Weakest Link, Goodbye!

Simon Burke — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 17:23:47 -0000

Kartik
I gave you a strong agreement above but I disagree here:
The funny thing is people in England or in Europe aren’t this way about Americans and their interest in the game. They are generally pretty curious about the US National Team, MLS/USL and how the game is covered here.

I dont think anyone in England particularly cares about the US National team or MLS.

Also when i am watching Baseball - I prefer to have American commentators and the same for NFL - when Sky used to do the NFL (and they may still do this) they had English people at half time doing the studio bit and by God they sucked. Sometimes its best to stick to who's good at it.
That said I think Foudy has been fine - Tommy not so much and I dont like Seamus (and I am half Irish). I am just delighted I am seeing this for free and also on ESPN360 - this coverage has been alright for me.

In England we trot out some right muppets, Tim Sherwood on Setanta , Mark lawrenson (an acquired taste but not mine), Barry Venison and his awful suits used to pop up on Sky...

Re: 5 Reasons Why The European Football Championship Is Better Than The World Cup

Simon Burke — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:55:01 -0000

Kartik
Based on your analysis then , Honduras, Canada and MExico will all qualify ahead of the US for WC2010. We'll see...
BTW, Mexico isnt playing great football and just had o change their coach.

Copa last year was fine but won by a B team and one of the 12 was a C Team. Peru/Bolivia hardly good sides...
The football was at times very entertaining but the Euros have been equally entertaining - this semi thats on right now is great stuff.

As Gaffer says - its all football and its been fun so long as its not got Italy and Spain in it.

As for the Euros being better than the WC - the WC is more prestigious but this EUro (and certainly not the 2004 cup) has been fantastic.

Simon

Re: Euro 2008 Semi Final Preview Germany v Turkey

Simon Burke — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 17:17:44 -0000

Spoke to my Dad back in England and he said they had power for the second Turkey goal
which we didnt till the replay....
THat power outage ruined a fantastic television spectacle. Curses.

Re: 5 Reasons Why The European Football Championship Is Better Than The World Cup

Simon Burke — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:51:39 -0000

This last fella is an idiot.
Indian, American, English - who cares?
Take your shocking grammar and spelling to a flame blog. Moron.

Kartik as for Honduras, they do have Suazo and a reasonable record in recent years over the US but despite that 3-2 win at RFK (where 2/3 of the crowd cheered Honduras and through urine at the rest of us) I will say that Honduras never went on to qualify. A league table never lies about your overall quality and Honduras didnt cut it then and I doubt they will now.

Costa Rica are decent in Costa Rica only and are pitiful in World Cups barring the time they beat Scotland who are pitiful anyway (yes I am English).

End of the day, the US have got a better draw for now - but they'll be thrown in with the other group top 2's in time and I wager will finish top 3 there.

Re: 5 Reasons Why The European Football Championship Is Better Than The World Cup

Simon Burke — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:52:21 -0000

Sorry Sonya - isnt the idiot - the one above, Sonya beat me to the post :)

Re: Fox Soccer Channel Poll

Simon Burke — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:41:24 -0000

I vote 1-10 but only because the Euros were on ESPN - had FSC had it I would have voted differently.

Re: ESPN Has The Power To Make Soccer Successful In America

Simon Burke — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:44:22 -0000

Not a bad idea as an introduction Kartik - though only an intro - start there and then go for the Prem.

Re: Premier League 2.0: Turning The 39th Game Concept Into A Winner

Simon Burke — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:19:20 -0000

Strongly against all of this. I am English but live i the US but dont see a need for this. GRanted there are a lot of fans in the US and other places of the Prem but its the English Premier League. Its in England - all these fans knew that when they started watching it.
Community Shield i can lose as I dont really care for it but any other game of significance stays put in England.
If America wants to see these players - then America needs to develop its own league and get people involved, get people watching MLS on TV - same for other countries who desire a 39th game.
ITs a deeply unpopular concept in England and its just clubs trying to cash in on fans money overseas. I am on an overseas blog so I am sure this isnt going to be a popular view.

Re: BT Vision To Bundle Setanta Sports With New Packages In UK

Simon Burke — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:20:19 -0000

Speaking of Setanta - their US website shows it as being available via Vreizon Fios - I cant see it on my Fios line up, can anyone else who has FIOS confirm its up or not?

Re: BT Vision To Bundle Setanta Sports With New Packages In UK

Simon Burke — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:00:13 -0000

Thanks Jeff- fingers crossed Maryland goes sooner rather than later

Re: Columbus Crew 1-3 West Ham United: Your Reaction To The Game And Violence

Simon Burke — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:51:17 -0000

When the Sons of Ben get in we could have an East Coast clone of this - there are going to be crazy I fear.

Re: Tottenham Hotspur Is Ready To Crack The Big Four

Simon Burke — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 11:34:08 -0000

Every year Spurs to break the top 4 but only Everton consistently nearly (and once did) acheive this.
THat said I think Spurs ar ecapable but Ramos hasnt convinced me - he won a worthless cup and then his team showed all the fight and passion of West Ham the rest of the season barring great matches with Chelsea and United (they won neither). Ramos also has a long history of switching clubs quickly.

They have spent big money and have a few eye opening names but if they get rid of Berbatov and Keane and are left with Bent who himself I think wants out then can they really be big 4 material?

I dont think this year the top 4 will change, Spurs will believe they can do it for a while but come Xmas will be bogged down in Europe and probably will finish 6th.

My own Arsenal are the team that will eventually be displaced unfortunately.

Re: Poll: Landon Donovan Heading To The EPL? | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 11:39:13 -0000

Problem with Landon is attitude. He is excellent in MLS I think but there he is a big fish in a mediocre pond. In Germany he flopped and came back here and was more interested in his personal life than a career (and thats his choice) but if thats been his choice I just cant see him getting the head right to take on England. There are certainly worse players in the Prem than him and personally I like his style of play but his size will make it difficult for him to compete in the Prem I think. Who'd have him? There is no point going to Hull and Stoke and of course there is always Fulham but i am not sure a decent club would actually come in for him because of his size. Up front he'd struggle. Out wide he may be better.

Re: Robbie Keane Is A Ticking Time Bomb Waiting To Explode At Liverpool

Simon Burke — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:33:39 -0000

I like Keane and was so disappointed when he went to Spurs - I like Ireland and I like Arsenal so this was a match made in hell.
Seeing Keane leave has delighted our family.

However Liverpool tend to play 4-5-1. The one is Torres so I see a problem for Keane unless Rafa is going to start going 4-4-2 or try and make Keane part of the 5?

Good luck to him though.

Re: Premiership Preview–12. Newcastle | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 11:12:10 -0000

I was listening to BBC's the Monday Night Club and Ray Parlour, Steve Claridge and the host all fear for Newcastle a bit, plus the takeover saga surrounding them makes me think this is anothe reset season for Newcastle. Keegan must be peeved at the offseason progress. The squad listed above looks light to me and a bit on the old side too. I hope Newcastle do well however, one of the sides I like but I just think they are going to get off to a miserable start.

Re: Poll: Premier League’s Mini-Competition Idea

Simon Burke — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 13:15:45 -0000

Rubbish idea. Will Wenger and the like play their best teams to win a nonsense cup where no-one else from the top 5 is in your competition? Of course not, they will treat it like the League cup. Best solution i have heard is send the Community Shield and stuff like the Emirates cup overseas and be done with it.

Re: Warren Barton Joins Fox Soccer Channel

Simon Burke — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:35:29 -0000

Houlihan was good, but he was always at loggerheads with that moron in the bad glasses and dodgy curly hair who thinks he knows everything on Soccer Sunday. Gary someone I think. I am pretty sure Andy Houlihan couldnt stand him.
Barton is an odd choice but hopefully works out!

Re: Premiership Preview–4. Arsenal

Simon Burke — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:47:04 -0000

Not the worst written article by Michael I have ever seen but not good either - replace what Michael wrote with what JM wrote up half way up and you will have what amounts to proper analysis. Truth be told Arsenal could finish anything from 1st to 4th again - last year it was a 4 point margin so clearly we are capable of challenging and in truth we should have done it last year but blew it at the end quite badly. Thats experience though, water under the bridge and I have seen little improvement at Chelsea and especially United this Summer so we shouldnt be too far back of them and may even win it. Tottenham have a great side this year if they can gel them but they wont gel them in time. They can concentrate on their 'big cup' they will want to defend in January.

Re: How Premier League Players Flaunt Wealth Is Absolutely Sickening

Simon Burke — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:01:13 -0000

Sorry gaffer, its not exactly news to anyone. What did you think they were earning? You thought they gave it all to charity? In a perfect world my friend but in real life its fast cars, nice houses, bigger houses which are still nice and then the racetrack. I am not so offended by it unless its flaunted at me.

Re: One Wish For The 2008/2009 Premier League Season

Simon Burke — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:47:29 -0000

Toss me in the Boro camp, i tiped them to go down last year and they came very good second half of the season and I feel they can push on now. They are very good against the top 4.

Re: Premier League Can Learn A Lot From NBC Olympics Website

Simon Burke — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:49:55 -0000

I am all for it but not the 3-5 timeslot, games arent on telly then so they shouldnt be on the web then as it will reduce attendance at games themselves. All other games though would be great to see on the web but I think it would crack under the bandwidth pressures! Plus they will never do it overseas, just in England. Boo.

Re: Premiership Preview–1. Manchester United

Simon Burke — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:52:03 -0000

I wouldnt say United have it in the bad , Ronaldo missing for an estimated 6 weeks could well hurt them and if Chelsea mass a good start they will struggle plus we'll see just how committed Ronaldo is when he comes back. Looks like Berbatov will happen but I am not 100% convinced they will repeat. Chelsea havent strengthened that much , pending Robinho transfer but I still think they will edge United by the end.

Re: Premier League Footballers On All-Star Injury Fantasy Team

Simon Burke — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:27:12 -0000

Bojinov needs to be the captain, this poor sod cant get a break and is out for 6 months after a warm up injury now! Owen a close second.
Rosicky for sure and where is sicnote, Darren ANderton to manage them!

Re: Gary Oldman Stars In ITV Football Commercial

Simon Burke — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:28:43 -0000

Very underwhelming ad with a bad cut where he does the juggling.
I would love to see the old Sean Bean Sky premiership ad from the mid 90's if anyone can dig that up - best footy talk up ad ever.

Re: John Terry Should Not Be England’s Captain

Simon Burke — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:40:28 -0000

I think most people would have chosen Rio over Terry because the average laymen tends to like Rio more than Terry. There is something thats offputting about Terry. That said, this sentiment has nothing to do with sport but in England that sort of public perception as silly as it sounds matters.
I like Gerrard but as Rob says above he hasnt performed that well for England. I'd have picked Rio, an all round better footballer than Terry and apparently more popular in the dressing room. Terry is a great captain at Chelsea though no question, though i dont like him either :)

Re: Premier League Wants To Be The NFL

Simon Burke — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 11:55:17 -0000

This annoys me, I hate Scudamore and Cook. To take away relegation would be a disaster - all the lower teams would never be able to come up, what would West Brom do every 2 years?
Seriously though one of the great things is the relegation chase, nothing better than watching the last day of the season and then Match of the Day's coverage of it minute by minute once its all done. Money one day will consume football and break it.

Re: Who Are The Premier League Players You Love To Hate The Most?

Simon Burke — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 10:38:50 -0000

I would remove Gallas and Adebayor and sub in Eboue for the both of them and would have Jens before his escape. Barton, Ronaldo, Nani, both Kevins at Bolton, Drogba the hideous diving fool, Diouf, Paul Dickov before he left and something about Mido annoys me too.

Re: Why So Many Empty Seats For Cup Competitions?

Simon Burke — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 17:25:20 -0000

The big clubs treat it as fodder, i have seen some of the smaller clubs treat it as fodder too. At the end of the day the FA Cup is the bigger of the 2 cups, and even that is treated poorly by some of the bigger clubs - those same clubs which have a bye through this round because they have more important things to worry about.
I would get rid of the Carling Cup altogether, no country needs 2 cup competitions. Have one proper cup competition so that clubs have to take it more seriously.

Re: Why So Many Empty Seats For Cup Competitions?

Simon Burke — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:46:55 -0000

There is only so much football you can care about, i am not saying the Carling Cup is rubbish as in the past it provided some great moments , much like the FA Cup but does anyone really see the need for both? Most European leagues dont care about one cup, they have it but its treated poorly. In England we have 2, its overkill. Several top flight teams treat it as a hindrance to their league games and with European competitions now producing so many fixtures clubs have to prioritise and its only natural that the weaker of the 2 cups gets the brunt. One cup please.

Re: How Chelsea Ruined Shaun Wright-Phillips | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:07:01 -0000

I have no sympathy for him - he chose to go there to a team packed in the middleand had good wingers at the time (Cole, Robben and I think Duff was still there).
He should have gone to Arsenal who were in for him rather than Liverpool (who i cant remember being close to signing him).
So he went to Chelsea, he took the cash, he complained he didnt get games, his mad Uncle complained he didnt get games and he pis*ed away 3 years of his career though as Pete says didnt come away empty handed but it sort of looks that way. I think he will have a good season at City and Hughes has a good signing on his hands.

Re: How Chelsea Ruined Shaun Wright-Phillips | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:07:29 -0000

PS) Mad uncle - should have been mad stepdad..!

Re: The Return Of Joey Barton: One Touch And 3 Minutes Of Controversy | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 23:23:05 -0000

I am nan Arsenal fan and I think this reaction is over the top. Barton made one slightly zealous tackle, not that over the top. The crown gave him stick - he laughed sarcastically at THE CROWDS reaction and then got tripped by Nasri who was booked, probably harshly. thats all that happened, nothing too terrribly malicious.

This article is slightly unwarranted, we'll see again in 3 weeks.

Re: I’m On Setanta Sports: August 30, 2008 Episode | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 14:55:35 -0000

Brilliant episode - last weeks Berbatov appeal was inspired.

Re: Fox Soccer Channel Selling Its Soul For Advertising Dollars

Simon Burke — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 11:58:38 -0000

The network is a joke but the content is fine - as long as they leave the product of football alone and dont splash commercials all over the match I can cope with the rest of it.

Re: BREAKING NEWS: Kevin Keegan Is Close To Leaving Newcastle | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 10:50:55 -0000

Sacked according to latest reports - granted I think he was wrong to hang on to Barton but Barton didnt want to leave and Keegan has to play someone in midfield, you cant get rid of all your players and not replace them. Football will be poorer for his absence. When you see that fool Ashley downing that pint at the Emirates you cant help but think what a poor image that presents of the club. I like Keegan , always have, always will.

Re: FIFA 09 Preview

Simon Burke — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 13:37:04 -0000

Still not as good as Pro Evo - by far and away the best football game. I think thats out mid Nov.. :)

Re: Alan Curbishley Resigns As West Ham United Manager

Simon Burke — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 13:49:47 -0000

By resigning though you dont get your massive payoff which is why most managers hang on forever... until the axe. God knows whats going on at Newcastle, i assume Ashley is trying to worm out of paying Keegan.

Re: FIFA 09 Preview

Simon Burke — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:12:26 -0000

Last years was fine on PC, I am hoping to pick up the Xbox 360 version this year if its any good. Pro Ev feels much more real than Fifa , though I loved Fifa 99, best gameplay it ever produced.

Re: Who Is Abu Dhabi United Group?

Simon Burke — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 22:12:40 -0000

Definitely a black day for football, i think and i am not entirely up to speed on this a team in Germany is doing the same thing and buying expensive players and the ownership bought a cheap club, got them up to the to pand are now a reasonable force in the bundesliga. - i forget the name of the team. Its not building a fanbase and developing players anymore. Its about signing the best players for the most ludicrous prices. As a City fan I would be delighted - they can now compete with the best. Chelsea started this nonsense (Abramovich rather than Chelsea) and its now getting out of control. Football spending should be tied to your income and not a billionaires wallet. Arsenal generate their own income and do a great job, it is doable but this is now a joke. It wont change without legislation either. Robinho getting 160,000 a week is laughable - he's not that good, i cant see him having a big impact in England and yet he has become the highest paid footballer on the planet by a non-football man. I hate the way football is going , i really do. Its now to the point where you need a rich Russian or Saudi or Sheik or billionaire entrepreneur to fund your club or you havent a chance.
I am just reading the perry Groves biography, terrific stuff and harkens back to a different time - of only 20 years ago where Perry got 350 for a win bonus and at one point was on 350 pounds a week at Arsenal, a lot of the players were English and the league was more interesting. The quality has since improved of the product but the game itself has gone backwards.
PS) I am a gooner and dont begrudge a lub having a billionaire but I begrudge football for allowing it.

Re: PES 2009 Preview | EPL Talk

Simon Burke — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:19:14 -0000

Cheers Gaffer, when the office gets quiet I have an activity to plough through this afternoon!