Thursday, July 31, 2008

EPL Transfers

I know this list is a bit dated (from July 21), but it gives a good overview of most of the transfers that Barclay's Premier League teams have made this summer. Check it out and start to map out your fantasy team for the upcoming season. The season kicks off on August 16th.

Monday, July 28, 2008

Liverpool Sign Robbie Keane in 20 Million Pound Deal

Tottenham fans will be saddened to see Robbie Keane depart White Hart Lane as Liverpool completed the signing of the Irish National. The deal's legitimacy was initially questioned by Tottenham, but the Spurs have officially withdrawn their previously filed complaint. Liverpool has been in the hunt for a striker since the departure of Peter Crouch. And with the addition of Keane to Liverpool's attack, its hard to deny that the Red's goal scoring potential. Keane has reported to Anfield for his his team physical.

Spurs fans are probably pretty shaken up (especially with the continued doubts of Dimitar Berbatov's future) but I wouldn't be too quick to lose faith in Tottenham. Juande Ramos is an adept manager and now with the departure of Robbie, I doubt that the additions of Luka Modric, Giovani Dos Santos will be the last of the summer.

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Americans at Villa Park




The American Brads have taken over at Aston Villa during the current transfer window. First Brad Guzan signed with Aston Villa several weeks ago (pending a work permit being issued) and today Brad Friedel's transfer went through from long time club Blackburn. Friedel will almost definitely come in as the starter, taking Guzan under his wing.

This is a great development for Guzan. He will be able to transition into the EPL under Friedel, a seasoned keeper in one of the best leagues in the world. This will also bode well for the USA national team as their historically strong position of goalkeeper will gain even more strength with Guzan's development with the Villians. Either way, we should see a Brad playing between the sticks at Villa this season. Go Brad(s)!

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Video: Top Goals at Euro 2008

I feel as though I've been spoiled by the European Championships. Now I am going to have to wait another 2 months to watch top notch football (I guess we do have the Olympics to tide us over). If you miss the goals and drama of the Euro Cup as much as I do then here is a little video to cheer you up. These are a few of the better goals scored at the tournament.

Monday, July 7, 2008

European Transfer Roundup

Zenit reject Barcelona's 15 million pound offer for Arshavin
The Russian international's dream to play in Spain is put on hold again as Zenit St. Petersberg rejected the Catalan's offer. Zenit has offered to extend Arshavin's contract until 2012, but I don't see Arshavin staying in Russia. Barcelona has already unloaded Deco, and with Ronaldinho and Eto'o on their way out, I think its just a matter of time (and money) until Barca gets Arshavin.

Dani Alves arrives in Barcelona
Barcelona completed the transfer of defender Dani Alves from Sevilla for a transfer fee that is speculated to be roughly 35 million Euros. Alves proved his quality over the past few seasons with Sevilla as he helped them win two UEFA Cups during his 5 years with the club. I think the move to Barcelona is a logical one; his explosive flair should fit well with Barcelona's attacking style of play.

Peter Crouch To Portsmouth
After months of speculation, Peter Crouch is finally leaving Anfield. Benitez accepted Portsmouths' 8 million Euros (with 3-4 million extra in bonuses) bid for the towering striker. Crouch, who had a turbulent stay at Anfield, has to be content at leaving his relationship with Benitez behind. I think Crouch is an underrated player and will justifiably see more time with Pompy. Here is a look back at Crouch's quality; a spectacular bicycle finish against Turkish side Galatasary.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Manchester City Signs Jô, Still Pursuing Ronaldinho

Manchester City general manager Mark Hughes is doing some investing this off season. His club just completed the record signing of 21 year old Brazilian striker from CSKA Moscow (finished 3rd in the Russian Premier League). The transfer fee is undisclosed, but the English side has reportedly shelled out around 19 million pounds. is coming off an accomplished season with the Russian club having scored 44 goals in all competitions. Although he has only been capped once for his country, he has a proven goal scoring record; City fans will hope that he can adapt to the English style of play with ease.

Hughes and City are also courting Ronaldinho. There have been transfer rumors coming out of Manchester for the better part of the last 3 months. So far no deal has been finalized, but one has to wonder if his fellow Brazilian's move to City may sway Ronaldinho. On a side note, if City is able to bring Ronaldinho in, they will have consolidated two of the goofy-ist looking Brazilians to the same team. Well done Mark Hughes.