With the world football audience currently so vehemently focussed on their respective domestic seasons drawing to a close, as well as the climax of European club competition just about upon us, one can be forgiven at not paying much attention to the fact that Euro 2008 starts in just six weeks.

It has almost appeared to slip under the radar for myself, along with many others.

But believe it or not, not even the co-hosting nation of Austria is particularly excited about it. In fact, it appears that many Austrians are embarrassed about the prospect of their own national side even having to play in the tournament.

So much so, that thousands have even signed a petition urging their side to withdraw from even playing in the tournament.

Having travelled … Read the rest of this entry… »

Now for something a little different - but this addresses a major pet-peeve of mine - the common misinterpretation of when the ball is out of play.

Which of the footballs in the accompanying diagram are actually out of play?

Hopefully you know that only the bottom ball is out of play. If any part of the ball is in the field of play or touching the touch line, whether on the ground or in the air, then it is still in play.

The same goes for a goal to be scored - if any part of the ball has not entirely crossed the goal line, a goal should not be awarded.

I can never understand how few people appear to know what is actually the most basic rule in football.

Next time you are watching a game on television, note the number of times a ball technically doesn’t go out of play, yet is called “out” by commentators, players, and even linesmen. You’ll be surprised.

Stockport County are aiming for promotion from League Two, but suffered a setback in their 3-2 loss at home to table-topping Milton Keynes Dons.

Not one to reluctantly accept defeat and praise the better team, Stockport manager Jim Gannon rants: … Read the rest of this entry… »

I always love debate about how much of an advantage a home team gets, and why.

Familiarity of surroundings, vocal support from fans, travel, etc, are all commonly mentioned factors.

But here is a new reason - Sao Paulo’s changing rooms were gassed at half-time at Palmeiras Parque Antartica stadium with … Read the rest of this entry… »

After another excellent display against Manchester United, David Bentley continues to grow in stature.

And, despite Arsene Wenger steadfastly stating that he doesn’t regret selling Bentley, anyone who has watched the Gunners in recent weeks would have to agree that he would walk right into their starting XI at the moment.

With Emmanuel Eboue not technically suited to a wing role, and injuries to players such as Tomas Rosicky and Robin Van Persie, Arsenal are crying out for someone solid on the right side of their midfield. More so, because their squad is suffering for not having natural … Read the rest of this entry… »

As an Arsenal fan, I’m getting a bit fed up with the number of times “luck” is getting used as an excuse for their recent losses.

OK, it can’t be denied there have been a few 50/50 calls go against them in recent weeks - but these always even out over time, as evidenced by Adebayor’s quite blatant handball goal at Old Trafford.

Arsene Wenger’s more pressing concern should be how does his team manage to get into these “unlucky” situations.

The biggest factor appears to be the stoic rigidity and lack of flexibility in regards to his team’s tactics.

It is clear from looking at Wenger’s signings over recent seasons that he … Read the rest of this entry… »

Well, a five point lead for Manchester United with only four Premier League games remaining may not quite mean it’s a foregone conclusion for the reigning champs, but only the brave would bet against them to take a second consecutive title.

With Arsenal effectively ending their title aspirations for another season with their loss to United, and Chelsea suffering a last-gasp draw at home to Wigan, the League title is United’s to lose.

Avram Grant is still hopeful that his side can beat United at Stamford Bridge - but first Chelsea have the tricky task of … Read the rest of this entry… »

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