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Saturday, November 21, 2009 12:56 PM
FIFA out of touch with reality
In appealing to FIFA for their final World Cup qualifying game against France to be replayed the FAI have in effect, exacerbated the awful error made in allowing Thierry Henry's goal to stand in Wednesday night's tense encounter.
FIFA should have had a rather difficult dilemma which, when you consider the options, it appears to many (including major culprit Thierry Henry) a replay would be the most sensible and satisfying solution.
The problem for FIFA in allowing a replay would be the aftermath of future appeals for incidents of a similar nature. As for the precedent of allowing replays to take place, one has been set in 2005. FIFA's contention that it is different is a case of semantics at this stage. A replay was justified then, just like it is justified now. The precedent has been set and I am sure FAI will consider appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport on this issue.
For the record: Uzbekistan played Bahrain in an important World Cup tie in 2005. The game was replayed when the referee in the original contest failed to award Uzbekistan a penalty and instead gave Bahrain an indirect free kick.
By ruefully dismissing the Irish claims, it now leaves FIFA, France and Henry open to harsh and perpetual criticism particularly over the next eight months. Imagine France even contemplating winning the 2010 World Cup - it would all seem a bit fake would it not?
In reality, at some point in the future a similar recurrence of the incident will take place. So surely this magnified controversy is enough of a platform for FIFA to justify the introduction of video technology.
Knowing the historic stubbornness and rigidity of the FIFA hierarchy it may be difficult for them to accept but really on this one, their backs appear firmly against the wall. FAI, in a no-lose situation, have brought the issue of governing an actual football game, at the international level at least, back to the forefront of world football's conscience.
FIFA really only have themselves to blame for the difficult position they are now in. Regardles of their rather swift decision in declining the Irish appeal this is not going to go away. Unfortunately, failing to keep in touch with the realities of modern football as it appears on our television screens is an error that is now costly for all of us.
Let's daydream. Having the game replayed with the future commitment to use video technology for the officiating of all international soccer games would in one instant diffuse the whole problem. At the same time it would make our treasured sport of football so much more credible while alleviating some of the pain millions of football fans have to suffer as a result of unfair, "correctable", injustices.
It is bad enough being knocked out of a World Cup competition without the assistance of preventable policing errors. FIFA failing to do anything here leaves all football fans in the same old status quo position which in regards to legitimately winning games, remains needlessly contentious.
Link to this postThursday, November 19, 2009 01:03 PM
Brilliant Irish deserved better
After seeing Thierry Henry's get away with a blatant handball in last night's pivotal World Cup qualifier between France and Ireland it was difficult to not recall a similar incident back in 1977 when Wales played Scotland in their all important final qualifying game. Scottish striker Joe Jordan handles the ball in the Welsh penalty area but David Jones gets incorrectly penalized for the handball and a penalty is awarded. Scotland score and qualify for the World Cup in Argentina and Wales as a result are eliminated.
To think 32 years later a similar incident has transpired is an absolute absurdity. While Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini adhere to their notion that video technology cannot be a part of the modern game, it is a view that appears to be in stark contrast to what everyone else in the football world demands. As a neutral observer of last night's game it was both annoying and disheartening to see the game finish in such a way. While the Irish wrath from players, staff and supporters is completely justifiable, it really should be directed in one simple direction and that is to FIFA and its leader, Blatter. While the officials are noted as being responsible it has been clear over the years (through the improved technology of cameras et al) that it is now too easy for them to be blinded to crucial incidents and therefore human error in the electric pace of the modern football game is an absolute certainty. Blaming Henry also has limitations. While his explanation - players do their job and referees do theirs - was a little nauseating it at the same time resonated some truth.
As for the game itself the Irish can consider themselves extremely unlucky.
Having scored the only "legitimate goal" they also missed three clear-cut chances to increase their lead had they been a little sharper in the final third.
Trapattoni, who has proven to be a leader sumpreme since taking over the Ireland team, should be credited with the fact they came so close in the first place. No losses in the group stage was an accomplishmnent in itself but the preparation and tactics towards the playoff games against the French was even better. Then in his final statements when addressing the controversial French goal he suggests that the referee should have asked Henry if he did in fact handle the ball - in the spirit of fair play of course! A brilliant performance from the Irish cultivated from a brilliant brain!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 02:18 PM
On Trapattoni's mind games and Burley's departure
After losing 1-0 to a more talented French side in Dublin on Saturday, Ireland now face an uphill battle in their return fixture on Wednesday in Paris. After a confrontation between French fullback Lassana Diarra and Irish midfielder Keith Andrews led to an insult on "all Irish people'' (according to Ireland manager Giovanni Trappotoni), it sets the stage for a potential upset in this pivotal World Cup encounter.
Typical of Trapattoni to recognize an opportunity to stoke the Irish players to muster up a little bit extra. Nevertheless, less convincing is the decision to relay the Ireland tactical approach to the world - which will be to launch the ball forward as often as they can in a retro-70s style. It appears Trapattoni needs to refer back to Sun Tzu and the Art of War to recall the important tenet which refers to surprising the enemy. Knowing how the Irish will approach the game gives the French team the ability to prepare appropriately and so, hedge your bets on this one.
Burley's dismissal inevitable
After a disastrous outing against Wales it was of little surprise to anyone when George Burley was released by the Scottish Football Association. Failing to qualify even for the playoff rounds in World Cup qualifying was an absolute failure especially following a period of some moderate success under Walter Smith and Alex McLeish. Troubled by internal player conflict which led to the infamous expulsion of Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor, Burley had a difficult hand to play but when you look at Ireland's performances in comparison you would have to conclude that the Scotland team underachieved.
The question now is who will take over from Burley. Graeme Souness has already ruled himself out of the running for the job which is not a good sign for the SFA as Souness is generally not that fussy about the jobs he takes.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009 07:12 PM
Anselmi has lost the plot
Anselmi lost the plot
Interesting comments from TFC executive Tom Anselmi the other day. There is no doubt that he and his and his MLSE cronies should be credited immensely for bringing first class professional soccer back to the City of Toronto. On a business level they have done a wonderful job. Engaging fans in the way they have proves they are in touch with modern day fan appreciation and cultivation. How about including fan representation on the MLSE board which is what happens in many parts of Europe? Would help diffuse some of the frustration with not winning. They need to be heard!
Back onto the technical side of things though. Ouch, cannot help concluding that Anselmi is a little out of his element when he begins talking about all things technical. From ‘but sometimes young guys have to lose together so that they can learn how to win together’ to "Our expectation was to not make the playoffs the first three years. We didn't think we would," Anselmi stated.…to name a few.
Well, show me a fan that would want to support a team if that was the message when the franchise was originally launched. Apparently Seattle took a different approach. The point with players is simple: TFC have collectively the wrong group mentality – end of story. Losing together does not help you win together if the mentality is wrong in the first place. Digging into the team with a pitch fork and clearing out the poor stock is what is required but generally to do that you need to be able to see it. Better Anselmi sticks to all things business-related and delegates technical comments to his technical staff. BTW: The Vision should be thus: To be the best professional soccer team in CONCACAF, not just MLS!!
Final Word On: so close to the playoffs
It is easy to get fed up listening to the fact that TFC had more wins and points than in all previous seasons and they were only one point out of the playoffs. Fair enough, but it lacks complete credibility when you lose your last game in the way you did, when it was so vital. It highlighted inadequate coaching, poor mentality yada, yada, yada. What is the point in making the playoffs anyway if when you get there you are then going to get beaten, stuffed, or humiliated?
Tommy Soehn
Interesting to see D.C. United moving Tommy Soehn away from the coaching ranks. Talk about dealing with something in a classy way. The comments from the club clearly indicate he was well liked and respected by everyone (including players), which tends to be a rarity these days. TFC could do worse than hire Tommy maybe not as the head coach as he needs a break from the grind. He would be a fantastic resource for player recruitment and academy direction. He actually has a Canadian connection, having played professionally for the Ottawa Intrepid and Hamilton Steelers of the old CSL. Comparing both eras highlights the great strides professional soccer has made in North America! Referring to the day when Tommy heard about being traded away from Hamilton Steelers. He was not informed personally by anyone from the club – no, he was sitting on the toilet reading the morning newspaper when he saw the headline "Soehn traded back to Ottawa."
Spot on Nigel Reed
Nigel Reed, who has been a breath of fresh air on the media landscape since his arrival a few years ago from England, got his assessment spot on for what TFC need in a coach. The most important criteria really is the ability to coach: to maximize the talent resources you have available to you. It takes talent to be able to do this and while foreign soccer cultures can be an impediment to immediate success, talented coaches/managers will eventually get the job done!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009 11:24 AM
Beckham's return to Milan welcome news
After all the fuss last year surrounding Beckham’s decision to join AC Milan it appears a year on that emotions are in check regarding his return to the San Siro. Even the anti-Beckham brigade amongst Galaxy fans must be impressed with his contribution since his return from Italy. Ideally for them, the team is able to overcome a tough Chivas USA team in order to advance to the MLS semi-finals which, considering the warm climate of California, will then give them an edge. In either event, the Galaxy have performed well and Beckham has not let them down. In fact he, along with the controversial, mouthy Donovan, have been the lynchpins to the Galaxy’s success – as they should be I might add. In the end, it appears the whole Beckham-Milan affair has fizzled into an ‘all’s well that end’s well’ episode in sunny California – at least for this year!
While the off-field process of getting the deal done for 2010 has been smooth and tidy, only time will tell if the on-field part is a success. Firstly there is the playing commitment from Beckham. Talk about no rest – his body can only dream of getting to December 2010 when he will finally be able to get a significant reprieve. Considering his move to Italy on December 28th and immediate departure to the World Cup at the conclusion of the Serie A season, followed by an immediate return to the Galaxy after the tournament has concluded, it will be quite a test for a 35-year-old. Secondly, there is the quality of the Milan team he will be joining this year, which appears to be in a major transition since the departure of Carlo Ancellotti. Knowing the standard of Milan’s rivals it will not be so easy for Beckham to have a significant influence If he can, then it truly will be a testament to his ability and stamina.
Assuming all goes well, one has to assume Capello will select him to the England team although his non selection would be so newsworthy, due to the irony of all the fuss in getting him there in the first place, that it is almost worth fantasizing about. Back to reality though, he will be selected but playing time in South Africa will likely be limited. Upon his return to LA, it will be interesting to see how much he can influence the team once again knowing the non-stop activity of the previous seven months. He will point to the fact he has done it all before but at 35 it will quite simply, not be so easy, even for Beckham.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009 02:35 AM
Is Mo Johnston the right man to lead TFC?
Mo Johnston – the wrong guy. Or is he?
Under the circumstances, how do we fairly evaluate Toronto FC's Director of Soccer when for three successive years the team has failed to make the postseason and all fingers are currently pointing at the leader responsible for the technical aspects of the game. Difficult for Johnston to shirk any responsibility here and while my instincts tell me that in the long run he will find it difficult to succeed, there are two sides to the argument.
After all, there have been some positives and in fairness to Mo, he was presented with a Canadian quota system that no other team in MLS has had to endure and which has made the task of producing a winning team extremely difficult. To a certain extent it has been like an albatross around his and the club's neck. If paying over $2-million for Julian de Guzman (who has so far struggled) is any indication, the lack of Canadian talent should be a worrying concern as it highlights a poor infrastructure in Canada for producing enough quality players.
The Positives
• Drafted and subsequently sold Maurice Edu for $5-million, of which ¾ is to be reinvested into club infrastructure, including grass at BMO Field, and the academy setup.
• Traded Ronnie O’Brien for a draft pick which ultimately turned into Sam Cronin, a player who will prove to be a real asset for the club.
• Drafted a fine young goalkeeper in Stefan Frei.
• Trade of the year brought Dwayne De Rosario to town.
• Quite rightly acquired Julian de Guzman – but the debate remains over whether it was the right move to bring him in as the Designated Player.
Mo the Coach
Even though Mo was hired as the club's first coach it was abundantly clear that this particular profession was not suited for him. At any significant level, which the MLS most certainly is, you have to have a certain fanaticism about the role of coaching itself. Watching him perform it was clear he did not have the passion, inclination, instincts, nor the mettle for the demands of the job. The fact he had to perform the tasks of ostensibly a GM while he was coaching compounded matters and rather than help TFC achieve success, it would have hindered it. Moving to the position of Director of Soccer was the correct move and it is now here where he should be judged.
Director of Soccer
The hiring of John Carver – who was last seen pacing the pavements of Newcastle glassy-eyed, wondering if he did the right thing in quitting back in April – has turned out to be a poor decision and as a result, the success of the team on the field was always going to be limited. The issues though go beyond the hiring of coaching personnel and ultimately point to the selection of players. To be fair to Carver and Chris Cummins, both inherited someone else's collection of talent and so, to a certain extent, they were handcuffed. However, this should not absolve them of their own responsibility because neither showed the wherewithal to maximize the team's talents.
No, the responsibility for assembling the current TFC squad falls squarely in the lap of Johnston, and this is where he is most culpable for the team's current woes. This year's roster highlights the lack of vision for putting a team together and the mandatory requirements that should be placed on players that you select. Any imbalances, of which there are many with the TFC squad, indicate a lack of experience/understanding for or how to achieve this important aspect of building a team. As an example, most successful teams have a good goalkeeper, a good back four, a central midfield general and a game-breaking striker. They really are your basic requirements for success, yet the back four for TFC is as poor today as it was three years ago. This lack of vision and ability to get it done needs to be addressed if Mo wants to produce a successful TFC team.
Similarly, the hiring of the right coach with a proven track record and an ability to deal with thoroughbreds is an absolute must. Whereas Mo has already shown he is not a talented coach, it is pivotal now that he finds someone who is. Doing so is realistically his only chance for survival.
Carl Robinson
I was surprised to hear and read Carl Robinson’s response to my analysis of him as a member of TFC. Maybe he misunderstood some things but clearly I was on his side, not against him. I did not lie about anything, contrary to what Chris Cummins mentioned.
It is easy to confuse management with coaching as the terms have a different football meaning, depending if you live in North America or Europe. In either event, the facts were as follows:
• I heard from a number of sources (not just one) that Carl was concerned about his position within the club, and being the leader that he is, he was opinionated about issues both positive and negative. This tends to be normal when you are a leader/captain. If you are strong enough you do not expect everybody to be your friend and at times you have to confront negative behaviour/issues. I did not judge him about being negative within the team environment because at times, it is needed. It is disappointing to now see Carl back down.
• I received a call from a prominent person who was also a friend of Carl’s. This person mentioned that Carl thought he would be moved out of TFC. He was prepared to talk to me, as a member of the media, about the internal goings-on within the club. I was given Carl’s number but I never called him as I felt it would not be within his interests to expose himself.
• John Molinaro, who overall does an excellent job writing for the CBC, mentioned in his article that I had not returned an email from CBC.ca looking for a response from me. For the record, I never received any communications from anyone from CBC via any medium, which is disappointing. Geez, people should know me well enough by now to realize I am always looking to give an opinion! I would have relished the opportunity to have made a statement. Maybe it was a misunderstanding or just competitive journalism on behalf of John. In either event I appreciate the exposure!
Friday, October 23, 2009 01:03 PM
Southgate dismissal no surprise
When Sven Goran Eriksson was released as manager of the England team back in 2006 there was plenty of debate surrounding who should be hired. A foreign coach or an English one? At the time both Paul Ince and Gareth Southgate, two former England international players, were staunchly against the hiring of a foreign coach. It appeared abundantly clear that both relished the opportunity to one day coach the England team themselves and so the protection of this right – for an Englishman to be at the helm – must have appeared correct. Surely it could not have been merited. Having their way, Steve McClaren was hired and fired within 18 months and then within three years both Ince and Southgate have had to face the indignity themselves, having failed miserably as managers, at both Blackburn and now Middlesbrough respectively.
Which brings us to the top 10 issue. Challenge yourself to name your own top10 list of soccer/football managers in the world today. The subjectivity of this exercise makes it ridiculously broad but hopefully interesting nonetheless. Having no real quantifiable data outside winning trophies or winning games, it should narrow it down to a small pool of coaches. However if we are to open it up to consistency, style of play (granted that is a personal preference) and longevity in the game then it could widen the landscape.
In either event, whatever your choices are, there is a better-than-good chance that your list does not include Gareth Southgate, Paul Ince, Kevin Keegan, John Barnes, or Bryan Robson. All English managers hired directly after their playing careers were complete with little or no preparation (education; mentorship through being an assistant etc.) for managing or coaching in the game. While there have been exceptions to the rule they are limited to just about negligible. Kenny Dalglish comes to mind – but there again he is not English. As Gianluca Villa wrote a few years back, this philosophy of hiring a manager directly after being a player is unheard of in Italy.
The English development of the game whether it be player or coaching development is still partly handcuffed by the Charles Hughes-motivated ideology from the 1950/60s where direct play statistics were condoned as the methodology for success – and all that it entailed. Passed onto the next generation, the game in many areas of England, unfortunately still rears the remnants of this narrow minded era on how to play, coach and manage the game. The mere fact in today’s modern football world managers can still be hired directly after their playing careers are complete is confirmation of the point. In turn, the fact Southgate has just been released from Middlesbrough is proof itself that the system does not work.
Top 10 Current Mangers
Alex Ferguson
Fabio Capello
Jose Mourinho
Guus Hiddink
Marcello Lippi
Arsene Wenger
Carlo Ancelotti
Ottmar Hitzfeld
Carlos Bilardo
Martin O’ Neill
Honourable Mentions
Rafa Benitez
David Moyes
Bruce Arena
Thursday, October 22, 2009 02:07 PM
TFC who stays, who goes Part III
Thank you again for the comments, e-mails and yes, even phone calls. While I do not agree with all that is suggested there are nevertheless many intelligent perspectives. Looking at TFC this year as much as it is easy to be critical it is becoming clearer that they compete in a difficult league which is cumbersome to navigate in terms of producing a successful team and squad.
One poster clearly alludes to this fact based on just one issue: salary caps. There are other issues as well, including international restrictions, Canadian players, and the limited depth of North American talent that is competing against fierce competition from around the world. It should not excuse areas to be critiqued and ultimately criticized but if the management team at TFC listened to everyone’s input then they would have no players left. I am sure we are all happy living in a democracy where we have the right to speak our minds freely. From industry experts though, the problem with free speech is that it produces a lot of nonsense along the way. As long as we keep that in mind, then all comments including from yours truly, should be kept in perspective!
Anyway, here we go with the next part of our year-end take on TFC.
Ali Gerba (trade/release)
Leopards never change their spots. A perfect metaphor for a player who has had eight clubs in nine years and now is on his ninth. When this kind of pattern happens clearly there is an issue. Canadian supporters will point to the fact that he has scored 15 goals for Canada and will likely become the top goal scorer for our national men’s program by the time his career finishes – and so it cannot be an ability issue. Maybe – maybe not. If not an ability issue then it has to be a psychological one. As a former coach who cut Ali five weeks before the world youth championships I can only attest to the fact that it was a combination of a lack of ability in key areas but more importantly a totally unrealistic approach to training be it with the team or self-preparation. As they say the proof is in the pudding and now nine clubs in 10 years is all the proof one needs. In regards to the national program it does speak to Ali’s persistence and highlights the potential of what might have been had his attitude and mentality been similar to Rob Friend’s or even his teammate Dwayne DeRosario. Scoring goals against the El Salvadors of the football world, whose team is made up of players from the Premiership….in El Salvador… is one thing, performing and producing in the day to day rigours of a professional football club where the need to be resilient to the demands and pressures of the game is quite another. I see no difference with the Ali of the past and the Ali at TFC. His first touch on the ball is not the touch of a Mo Johnston nor is his finishing, indicating the lack of prolonged preparation over the years. Hitting 20/30 yards strikes just over the bar are great for the ooh factor but getting the ball in the net at this level is what counts. Equally as important, the work ethic and determination are sporadic and because these intangibles are not ingrained into his makeup, one should have realistic expectations of what Ali gives you. If he is not a negative influence within the squad then it may be worth keeping him around for a while – after all he is a Canadian. One should suspect though that this is not the case. Players with weaker mentalities or strength of character generally get consumed with self-preservation when adversity kicks in (i.e. limited playing time; poor performances) and as a result can be undermining in areas they should not!
Chad Barrett (stay or trade)
A tricky one because in many ways he is the opposite of Ali Gerba. Great work ethic, busy, and determined. Heavily criticized by the fans for his ability to finish yet he still makes the lineup no matter who the coach is. There a few reasons for this: the intangibles he brings to the table can be utilized in a number of positions; there are not too many alternatives and the ones who may be technically better fall short in the ‘intangible category’. Also, while he has scored five goals so far he has also missed many opportunities and so it gets highlighted. Clearly his technique at crucial times, especially when under severe pressure, needs to be better. So does his overall finishing ability. His approach to the game will allow him to stay within the MLS be it at TFC or elsewhere and he will likely develop beyond the level he is currently at. While he clearly has some limitations, until TFC can find better in all areas (not just technical ability) then he should stay as his winning approach is infectious. In the fighter/artist category he is a definite fighter!
Dwayne De Rosario (stay)
An excellent deal for TFC in bringing Dwayne to Toronto. Mo should be credited here. With 11 goals so far this year he has not disappointed. Not only does Dwayne have a game breaking edge to his game (scoring goals out of nothing) he also has a fantastic attitude, work ethic and will to win. Paradoxically though he can, at times, be a bit frustrating to watch and I am sure to play with because he tries to do too much. Not necessarily on the ball, more so off it. He is best suited, in my opinion of course, as a lone striker, in tandem with someone else up front, or as a part of a trio of strikers. It plays to his strengths and his defensive responsibilities should be simple and straightforward but also rigid. If you give him too much freedom or do not structure his role then he will tend to roam freely which can hurt a teams balance and a teams strategic approach. It really is a tactical discipline issue and certainly not an attitude or work ethic one. It is like he does other people's ‘knitting for them’ which while admirable is also naïve and counter-productive. A strong coach who sees this should deal with it appropriately. Overall Dwayne has been a key addition to the TFC squad and no one has worked harder to help them into the playoffs. Without his 11-goal contribution the team would be dead and buried by now and so there should be no questioning his value in terms of his talent and attitude.
Stefan Frei (stay)
A definite improvement on the previous TFC goalkeepers and with age on his side he should develop into one of the better 'keepers in the league (if he stays of course). In regards to his potential as a top European goalkeeper (for example making it into the English Premiership) I have my doubts. His physical size is a little small to be the commanding presence one would want from a goalkeeper stepping out at, let's say, Old Trafford. I could be wrong here but my instinct suggests that this will be the case. We tend to get a little too excited at times about our “very own” be it as a coach, a fan, or as a friend. Nevertheless at the level he is competing at now Stefan is good. A terrific athlete, brave, vocal, and tactically bright he has made some big saves for the team. Just as important though are his abilities to be a consistent performer and his temperament which appears confident, assured, and composed, even in moments of chaos. He rarely makes a mistake and so far has not committed a major blunder. On the contrary he has instead pulled off some instinctively big saves. Dealing with crosses, and aerial balls in general are certain areas for improvement but the presence issue, while helped by his commanding communications skills, is something at the next level that may be difficult to overcome. A must stay but if rumours of him going to continental Europe are in fact true then it will be difficult off season trying to find a replacement. Hopefully he is around for another year or two.
Brian Edwards (stay)
Not an awful lot to go on as his time in goal has been extremely limited. If we are to judge him on his previous two games then the consistency issue should be highlighted, as both performances were Jekyll and Hyde. Having said that, the game against Real Salt Lake could well be the turning point in his young career as there can be no questioning the first-rate performance he produced. Against a talented group of forwards and facing some difficult strikes on net, Edwards produced an outstanding performance in getting, first of all, the basics right but then secondly (and obviously much more difficult) pulling off key saves. There was also the passion he displayed which if harnessed properly can be a real asset to a goalkeeper. However some 'keepers with an erratic temperament can be their own worst enemy when faced with adverse results and performances. Hopefully this is not the case with Edwards. The next few games (if in fact he plays) will give a better indication of his potential. If he can produce the same kind of performance then, as Chris Cummins pointed out at the end of the RSL game, they may have another top goalkeeper in their ranks.
Next week I'll look at the jobs done by Cummings and Johnston.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009 02:50 PM
TFC who stays, who goes Part II
Before embarking on an analysis of the TFC midfield it would be remiss of me to not address some of the comments/emails I received from the previous blog regarding TFC defenders.
On Marvel Wynne, I agree with some of you who suggest he is best suited as a wide player instead of as a defender. Clearly his major asset, pace, can be utilized while defensive errors are not quite so costly. Again technically and tactically he is not as accomplished so over the long haul there will be limitations. Bruce Arena was smart enough to see this when he permitted him to be traded from New York in the first place for basically nothing in return – you don’t do that if you have a gem!
However my major point was not that he is necessarily a poor player for TFC or the MLS (clearly he can still compete at this level). It is really about making your team better. If TFC want to be a half-decent run-of-the-mill team then they should keep what they have and that’s what they will be. As is the case in all industries, if you want to get an edge you have to be strategic. With top players being at a premium it may have been an option to have traded Wynne for something of better value. Being a part of the US national team his stock value was probably as high as it was going to get. I liked the suggestion of trading him for Will Johnson for example, or a good target forward or better still a pedigreed defender – although tough to find these days.
In regards to Adrian Serioux I can see the validity in some of the points regarding his status as a Canadian. It could well be the reason the management team keep him because the harsh reality, which the first three years of TFC’s existence have exposed, is that many of the Canadian players are simply not good enough for this level. Adrian’s performance on Saturday was much more realistic – displaying discipline, concentration and reliability which are essential ingredients for any defender at this significant level. It has to be game in game out though.
Julian de Guzman (stay)
Setting was in Italy, April of 2000. Canadian U20 versus Italian U23 amateur team. We had just played Wales U20 team losing 1-0 to a Robbie Earnshaw goal who in turn had held Italy to a 1-1 tie. It was our last but biggest game on the tour and so it was with apprehension that our young inexperienced team prepared for the game. Julian at the time with Marseille was the match MVP in the Wales game. Roll on to the kickoff. The ball is rolled forward to Julian who, rather than provide the staple back pass to a midfield teammate, instead ran with the ball straight at the Italian attackers. After beating two of them with mesmerizing skill he played the ball out wide to Alfredo Valente who himself did well enough to evade a defender in order to provide a driven cross into the penalty area. As the ball was cleared it landed in the path of the oncoming de Guzman who hit a bullet from 20 years into the net. It was a stunning goal within 30 seconds of a legitimate international game. Now, the fact that it was 1-1 three minutes later is another story, but for now, the point is Julian was so young and carefree as a player and not bogged down by the rigid pressures of the professional game that his real talent was able to shine through. Playing in Spain and Germany over the years has, based on his abilities at that level, positioned him into more of a defensive role. However, now that he is on a stage where he has the potential to be more of a star then the regaining of his youthful confidence is essential. He is getting paid a hefty wage as the DP player of the team. Along with that will come the added pressure and expectation from all and sundry. Playing as a defensive midfield player (if the early games are any indication) will hinder his ability to impact the game. It is almost like he wants too many touches and as a result he never makes runs off the ball into dangerous areas which are vital if you want to be an attacking threat. A goal-scoring playmaker is what TFC need not necessarily a defensive schemer – Sam Cronin could, over time, provide that role.
Playing Julian next season as an attacking midfield player either off one lone striker or two forwards is essential if you want to see the best of him. Paying over $2-million for a defensive midfielder is not money well spent. Paying over $2-million for an attacking, skillful, imaginative, goal scoring midfield player is!
Sam Cronin (stay)
As a graduate from the Wake Forest soccer program Sam would have been tutored well for the past four years. Clearly in his first year at TFC he has provided enough energy and ability to suggest he is a player that will be around in the future. The key will be where you use him because at the moment he is moved around a little too much for there to be a consistent level of performance. More of a fighter as opposed to a silk-type player his value at this evolutionary stage of TFC’s development cannot be overstated. While defensively solid, he at times fails to track players when he plays in the centre of the park. It is not a physical or work ethic (laziness) thing, it is more of a tactical awareness because the game is much quicker at the next level. It could also be a result of the training field preparation. A solid first-year performance combined with what appears to be a terrific mentality on and off the field make him a must-keep asset.
Carl Robinson (stay)
Arsene Wenger six months ago was asked by a reporter “What do you do now that you have Van Persie; Adebayor; Eduardo; Bendtner; Fabregas; Walcott; and Vela available? To which he responded “Well I certainly do not play them all together because the team would lack balance. A perfect introduction to Carl Robinson who in essence provides the perfect balance for a TFC team that is top heavy in silky players (well at least MLS-level silky!) I have said it before and will say it again the best place for Robinson was at the back in a central defensive position. The combination of Nana and Carl would have been solid, reliable, and defensively competent – nothing flashy but nothing careless. It is too late for this year as Robinson’s season has been cut short due to injury which is unfortunate. While often devalued by some fan segments who tend to view soccer teams in idealistic terms (using rose coloured glasses) Carl really does provide the perfect balance for a team laden with artist-type mentalities if not abilities. The need to play him at the back should have first and foremost been a collective requirement based on the lack of personnel to get the job done in this key area. Even though he was not as comfortable with the idea, over time I am sure he would have enjoyed the role and responsibility that goes with it. A good passer of the ball with good vision he is as tactically as bright as anyone in the league. A strong/tough personality brings a fighter mentality to the team which is a requirement if you expect to win. A problem on the horizon for Carl though is that word on the street suggests he can be negative behind the scenes particularly towards management which tends to not be good for career prospects. Carl being a leader will have strong opinions and so it is how you deal with him which is critical or otherwise a mistrust develops. If Carl goes, all sides lose.
Amado Guevara (stay or trade)
There is no doubting Guevara’s talent and ability. The decision to keep him will be based on the balance of the team; other options if traded, salary cap; etc. While he is not the most reliable player defensively he is certainly the most technically gifted of the TFC players. Not as flashy as de Guzman but certainly as significant in terms of his influence on the team. Consider that when Guevara plays TFC win, when he does not they generally lose! More pertinently, when under real pressure from the opposition it has to be comforting for his teammates to know he is always a reliable outlet to maintain possession. Players of his ilk are an impossibility to find in Canada at the moment. The issue will be whether TFC can afford to keep Guevara, de Guzman, Vitti, DeRosario all in the same team. If Mo can get a significant trade for him then it may be the best option for upgrading in other areas particularly considering his age. Otherwise he is a definite to stay.
Lesly Fellinga (trade or more realistically release)
A great left foot with good delivery is not enough to justify selection at this level. Being able to perform only one side of the game is unrealistic in modern day football unless you are supremely talented and even then it is difficult to sustain. Felinga is very poor defensively and gets caught out of position all the time. He does not meet the minimum standards in this area and therefore he is not worth the investment of time, money, or energy.
Pablo Vitti (trade or release)
Instincts were right with acquiring Vitti particularly not knowing you would eventually secure the signature of de Guzman. He has some talent but now that TFC have de Guzman in the fold someone of the same kind has to go and for me it has to be Vitii. Aside from his relatively hefty price tag his overall performance and influence has been anywhere from poor to middling. For an international player it is simply not good enough. Concerns in other areas will take precedent for Mo.
Thursday’s blog will look at the goalkeepers and forwards…should be interesting!!
Friday, October 16, 2009 03:40 PM
Time is now for Celtic-Rangers move
Interesting to hear that Rangers and Celtic are once again considering a move to another football league rather than stay in the SPL. The EPL or a new league altogether are supposedly their preferred choices…make that their only choices.
My main thought here? It is about time this was done and dusted.
In the modern football world it is almost absurd to think about two giants of the game with fan bases so large they are the envy of most football clubs around the world being permanently stuck in a third-tier league – with no disrespect, of course! Imagine the New York Yankees or Montreal Canadians competing in triple-A baseball or the American Hockey League. I remember a few years back when Celtic played in the UEFA Cup final against Porto in Spain. Through planes, trains and automobiles they in the end took upward of 50,000 supporters to support them and that does not count the fans outside the stadium without tickets. The support of these two clubs, in essence, is like no other.
Knowing what similar teams in other lands experience on a weekly basis it is hard to imagine both sets of supporters being satisfied with paying to see the likes of St. Mirren, Falkirk, and Hamilton week in week out and truly feel they are getting their money's worth. Winning is one thing but you also reach the point where the satisfaction disappears when there is no real testing competition.
What’s the adage. There are two things in life you are guaranteed of: paying taxes, and dying…well let's add a third, “things change”. Whether it is now five years, 10 years, or 50 years there has to be a change in the format of many leagues around Europe. Business is business and revenue generation is part and parcel of the survival and competitiveness of all football clubs. Most football leagues were developed in a bygone era that suited the masses and parochial markets. Now that many clubs are conducted as real international businesses with their commercialization approaching the driving force of their success it becomes incumbent upon the club to position themselves so they can maximize their potential in terms of revenue generation. Anything less and you do a disservice to your customers (your fans) and in doing so you cannot possibly maximize your potential, be it profitability or in the technical aspects within your industry – in this case, on-field successes.
To the romantics it will all come down to the health of Scottish football if the two giants leave and the doomsday scenario is that the SPL will not survive. Maybe but I do not think so. The league itself would be more competitive and sooner or later the fan bases of the smaller clubs will still remain motivated to support their teams. Nevertheless even in the event the SPL suffered a little it should not be the reason that Rangers and Celtic decide not to move on – they simply should. The main problem with this kind of change however will be the politics involved. Breaking down the prejudices and agendas of other leagues and clubs in making this happen will be incredibly difficult to achieve but in the end worth it. Rangers v Liverpool and Celtic v Man U on a Saturday is mouth-watering enough to keep the many stakeholders in either club motivated to succeed.