HorusFM Posted September 25, 2009 Share Posted September 25, 2009 This is a little test I have set up to see how the leagues would function with a whole new influx of managers. I have replaced all the teams managers from the top four divisions with heroes from their pasts, even just cult heroes who may have only played one game for the club. I admit to somethings possibly being wrong, but this is only just a test. Enjoy! Database - 9.3.0 FM WeeGiE August Update All Leagues Loaded From - England Database Size - Large ***** Barclays Premier League Overview: Arsenal Last Seasons Finish: 4th New Manager: Dennis Bergkamp Rundown: Arsenal are perennial underachievers in the Premier League these days, with Wenger's young side unable to keep up with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United. New manager and cult hero Dennis Bergkamp returns to the club in an attempt to build them up into more of a title challenging squad. The squad is an exciting one, don't doubt that, but are they yet ready to push up and challenge for the title; something they haven't won since 2004. Its likely money will be spent, but it all depends on how much chairman Peter Hill-Wood is willing to give his new Dutch manager. Wenger is gone, and after over a decade at the helm, it remains to be seen how Arsenal will move on from the legendary Frenchman. Squad: Arsenal do have a talented squad with the likes of Denilson, Vermaelen, Fabianski, Ramsey and Walcott all in the first team, but age is against them. Veterans such as Gallas must help the youngsters along but even squad veterans such as Fabregas and van Persie are only 24. I doubt this is their year as a few still need to mature, but you can guarantee that when Arsenal are firing on all cylinders that they will score plenty of goals. Highlight of the Season: Probably being involved in the highest scoring game, and once again sealing a top four spot. Player to Watch: Francesc Fabregas ***** Aston Villa Last Seasons Finish: 6th New Manager: Steve Staunton Rundown: Aston Villa came along in leaps and bounds under Martin O'Neill and he developed a very interesting and promising squad. Former Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton takes the helm at a time when everything is going for Villa. They must, however, keep the strong play going or they could turn into the likes of Newcastle. Staunton must keep this talented side together in the hope that they can challenge for 5th spot, or perhaps even the elusive top four. Squad: O'Neill's squad have talent experience and age in vast quantities. Any side that can boast a midfield of Milner, Young, Downing, Petrov and Sidwell is going to do well. A talented strikeforce for Villa also sees them score plenty, Agbonlahor's pace and Carew's strength working as a terrific combo, with Heskey as backup. The only problem for Villa is their lack of centre backs, with just Knight, Cuellar and Davies at the club. Highlight of the Season: A good UEFA Europa League run is most likely. Player to Watch: Gabriel Agbonlahor ***** Birmingham City Last Seasons Finish: 2nd (Coca-Cola Championship) New Manager: Jeff Kenna Rundown: Birmingham returned to the Premier League after a long hard slog in the Championship, and have already begun to make plans for the season with the appointment of defender Kenna, who made appearances over three seasons for the club. Despite finishing strongly, Birmingham are going to have problems this season. The Premier League is getting stronger every year, just look at the loss of Middlesbrough and Newcastle as evidence of that. Home form will be the key for this Birmingham side who will be backed hopefully with funds from Carson Yeung. Squad: Birmingham do boast a strong squad, but many of their players are top Championship at best e.g. David Murphy, Keith Fahey, Cameron Jerome, Gary McSheffrey. But they have brought in some talented players, striker Christian Benitez and midfield playmaker Barry Ferguson the best examples. The arrival of Joe Hart on loan is also a sly coup for Lazaridis, but Birmingham will need extra additions if they want to stay up. Highlight of the Season: Final day survival. Player to Watch: Christian Benitez ***** Blackburn Rovers Last Seasons Finish: 15th New Manager: Tugay Kerimoglu Rundown: A boring season for Blackburn just gone, survival ensureda few games before the end. The key for them now is to strengthen, and who else to know what Blackburn need that legend Turk Tugay. He of all people will know what Blackburn need, and his purchases have already begun with the arrival of Gael Givet. Blackburn need a massive spending spree though, but one has to wonder if there is any money there for such a thing to occur. Its up to John Williams to supply, and Tugay to make it happen. Squad: The squad isn't good enough. This is one of the easy things to notice about Blackburn, and if they don't strenghten, they will find themselves struggling with Birmingham, Hull and Burnley. Outside of the first eleven is no-one of any real note that could step in at the right time when recquired. The arrival of Lars Jacobsen has done nothing to alleviate any fears Blackburn fans currently have about their depth. Players are needed and fast. Highlight of the Season: The purchasing of players. Player to Watch: Morten Gamst Pedersen ***** Bolton Wanderers Last Seasons Finish: 13th New Manager: Alan Thompson Rundown: Fans favourite Thompson returns to try and push his side up the table. The problem Bolton face is a lack of good players that will join the club. It also depends on where the money is, and quite frankly, it doesn't look to be in Bolton's possession. Money most likely won't be spent in high quantities, but expect a few arrivals. Bolton have always found themselves languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League, and that won't change unless Thompson can conjure up some magic and earn a lucrative UEFA spot for next season. Squad: Bolton have never had a squad of full of amazingly talented players;they usually operate off of around two or three, and this season will be no different. Elmander is still considered a key player, but he will finally need to pull his finger out and do the business. Kevin Davies is still a valuable asset to Bolton, and there is no doubt they will look to him in times of trouble. Bolton need a massive influx of players, the current batch just not strong enough to hold their own in the league. Highlight of the Season: Bringing in the right player to keep them out of the relegation places.. Player to Watch: Kevin Davies Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted September 27, 2009 Author Share Posted September 27, 2009 Burnley Last Seasons Finish: 5th (Coca Cola Championship Playoff Winners) New Manager: Paul Fletcher Rundown: Legendary Burnley player Paul Fletcher steps down from his Director of Football role to take charge of first team affairs for the sides first foray into the mighty Premiership. Playoff winners last season over hotly tipped Sheffield United, this Burnley side is going to need a good home form to keep them in the Premiership for next season. It is going to take a lot from Burnley though, and they will need to work awfully hard to stand any chance of managing it. But you can never write off an underdog.. Squad: Looking at Burnley's squad, its easy to be mistaken when thinking they lack any cutting egde. Winger Chris Eagles, Kevin McDonald and Joey Gudjonsson have the ability to run any midfield well, while the arrival of striker Steven Fletcher bolsters a strikeforce already consisting of hot property Martin Paterson and veteran Robbie Blake. Burnley also look fairly strong at the back, and they should hold out. Still, its a rather largely Championship side, and Burnley will need to bolster their squad. Highlight of the Season: A possible FA/Carling Cup run. Player to Watch: Steven Fletcher ***** Chelsea Last Seasons Finish: 3rd New Manager: Gianfranco Zola Rundown:Zola returns to the club he graced with his splendid skills on the backing of a year managing experience with West Ham making him one of the more experienced managers now in the Premiership. Chelsea finished what would be considered a disappointing 3rd last season, partly due to the sacking of Scolari and temporary arrival of Hiddink. No matter how you look at it, Chelsea will be strong this season, asd they always are, and will no doubt be title contenders for either all or most of the season. Squad:Chelsea have an exemplary squad, but when you analyse it further, they are slightly weak. A strikeforce consisting of flops Shevchenko and Pizzarro means that Anelka and Drogba carry the whole weight of scoring goals on their own shoulders. The centre of defence is also a problem, with only three recognised centre backs at the club, Ivanovic more of a right sided full back. Injuries could cripple Chelsea without any acquisitions, yet its impossible to not hear of a big signing come frm Chelsea in the upcoming transfer window. Highlight of the Season: With a little strengthening, the title? Player to Watch: Frank Lampard ***** Everton Last Seasons Finish: 5th New Manager: Neville Southall Rundown: Everton continue to improve in the masses, and after a long period of failure and relegation scraps, David Moyes set them up as a hard spirited yet impressive side. The mantle has now been passed on to goalkeeping supremo Neville Southall, the Everton hero taking the post at a tough time. He will need to hope of emulating Moyes' success in building Everton into a European force; anything else will see him come under intense scrutiny. This will be the first test that Everton will face in their attempt to be a consistent top seven side. Time will tell if they can handle it. Squad: The players Everton do have are very good, but they lack depth which singles them out from the Man Utd's and Liverpools. Backup to Tim Howard in goal is weak, as is a strikeforce that is usually blighted with injuries. Everton are now beginning to develop good players e.g. Vaughan, Rodwell and Anichebe, but even with these, the squad is paper thin. A few injuries to key players and Everton could see their season crumble. Purchases need to be made, if only average players to take the load off the whole first team. Highlight of the Season: Another top 10 finish.. Player to Watch: Tim Cahill ***** Fulham Last Seasons Finish: 7th New Manager: Tony Gale Rundown: Fulham hero Gale returns on the back of a largely successful stint from Roy Hodgson. Fulham have never looked better, and last seasons finish of 7th proves that. Craven Cottage will be graced with European football this season, and Gale will need to call upon his hard working squad to continue to improve. Fulham may have some trouble in maintaining 7th for this upcoming season, as Tottenham and Manchester City have improved their squads over the summer, and will most likely oust Fulham into having 10th place, though even that will be contested with Sunderland. Squad: Fulham have developed a real sense of hard work under Hodgson, and the squad is thoroughly decent. A strong backline with Hangeland Andreasen will need adding to, but the rest of the squad is nicely thinned out. Fulham have a real good chance of causing some upsets once more this season. They will possibly need a new striker, Kamara and Nevland looking slightly past their sell by dates. Highlight of the Season: Top ten finish. Player to Watch: Brede Hangeland Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted September 28, 2009 Author Share Posted September 28, 2009 Hull City Last Seasons Finish: 17th New Manager: Dean Windass Rundown: Hull, somehow, struggled unbelievably last season. A terrific start was all thrown away when Phil Brown's side capitulated to a emphatic implosion of form. Despite this, they survived at the expense of the north east sides on the final day due to their inability to win. Hull will need a massive improvement under fans favourite Dean Windass in order to secure their top flight status for a second successive season. Odds on they don't, though. Squad: On paper, Hull look to have the weakest squad in the league. They lack a decent man in nearly every position, and this is definitively worrying for Windass. The stand out players in the side are Bullard, Geovanni and Turner, but these could all leave should offers come along. Windass needs an army of talent to join Hull if any hopes of survival are to turn from dream to reality. Highlight of the Season: Survival by the skin of their teeth would be like winning the title. Player to Watch: Geovanni ***** Liverpool Last Seasons Finish: 2nd New Manager: Jamie Redknapp Rundown: After taking Man Utd a long way for the whole of last season, Liverpool missed out on the title down to their being partial for a draw. They looked solid though, being beaten only twice, and they will need to look towards doing the same this season, aiming to turn more of those draws into victories. Its hard to ever look past Liverpool being in the top three, but once more I think the title will elude them. Squad: Liverpool have a strong squad, but in terms of depth, its not so amazing. A weak strikeforce consisting of just one stand out performer in Torres is a vital weak point, and if their talismanic striker gets injured, Liverpool's season could stutter. The likes of Voronin, Itandje and Degen are deadwood, and will most likely move on. Liverpool will most definitely spend money this summer, and you can expect a few big name signings to grace Anfield once more. Highlight of the Season: Possible Champions of Europe. Player to Watch: Steven Gerrard ***** Manchester City Last Seasons Finish: 10th New Manager: Uwe Rosler Rundown: German Uwe Rosler returns to Manchester to take charge of an exciting squad with big times ahead of it. Last seasons finish of 10th under Mark Hughes was decent, but the Sheikhs will be expecting more this season. Hughes made a lot of signings before departing, and this in itslef should bolster their league position anyway. Man City will need to prove every doubter they have wrong, and perhaps even push the top four all the way. Squad: Strong, strong strong. Its the only way to describe how Man City look right now. A strikeforce that bolsters goalscoring machines in Adebayor, Tevez and Santa Cruz along with already present Robinho and Bellamy is already mouthwatering. Other key names that will be important this season will be Gareth Barry, Wright Phillips, Ireland, Micah Richards and Shay Given. This is an almighty squad, and you can expect more arrivals from Rosler before the season begins. They'll be expensive arrivals too. Highlight of the Season: Biggest threat to top four. Player to Watch: Emmanuel Adebayor ***** Manchester United Last Seasons Finish: 1st New Manager: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Rundown: Sir Alex left on the back of another splendid United season, the Premiership title doing his final year justice. Who else to step into his shoes than fans hero Solskjaer, brought to the club by Ferguson himself. But by god are these almighty shoes to fill. Ferguson has built Manchester into what many would regard as the best club in the world and now Ole must carry them on for as long as he reigns. Nothing but the title will suffice for the red half of Manchester this season. Squad: Man Utd have the most annoying habit of building a splendid side without you really noticing. Veterans Neville, van der Sar and Scholes will most likely look to go out with a bang, as will one of the finest Welsh players in modern years, Giggs. Arrivals Valencia, Obertan and Owen will look to establish themselves for the season, but United will no doubt look to talisman Rooney and workhorse Ferdinand to hold their side together as they will push for another Premiership title. I wouldn't go expecting massive signings, but a few arrivals may join up before the transfer window ends. Highlight of the Season: The double, surely? Player to Watch: Wayne Rooney Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raware Posted September 28, 2009 Share Posted September 28, 2009 Interesting concept and one which will be interesting to see how it pans out. How have you decided which legends are to be managers of the club? From your own opinion or from another source? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saxonaitor Posted September 28, 2009 Share Posted September 28, 2009 A very good idea gavrenwick Will you be just sticking to the premiership or will you be venturing into the second tier? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted September 28, 2009 Author Share Posted September 28, 2009 Interesting concept and one which will be interesting to see how it pans out. How have you decided which legends are to be managers of the club? From your own opinion or from another source? I looked around on the teams information pages, and then also around on the internet for players that are viewed as cult figures. From their I had to deduce that some were still playing and ineligible, some were completely out of the game and then I used what I was left with. None of the managers have been created from scratch; they were all in the database, which was also another factor in choosing them. Sax - I will be chronicling the leagues down to League Two. Hope that doesn't make it tedious though! Thank you for your interest fellas. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saxonaitor Posted September 28, 2009 Share Posted September 28, 2009 Sax - I will be chronicling the leagues down to League Two. Hope that doesn't make it tedious though! Wow! May I suggest Jeremy Goss for Norwich? Bryan Gunn didn't work out to well Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raware Posted September 28, 2009 Share Posted September 28, 2009 You've got a bit of editing to do then! If Norwich get Goss, i'd like us (Forest) to have Stuart Pearce. I would say Nigel Clough but he's shown his true colours now he's at Derby! I was wondering why Tugay was chosen over Shearer for Blackburn but seeing as Shearer's not in the game, I know why you chose Tuguy now. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted September 28, 2009 Author Share Posted September 28, 2009 Goss was my first choice but he isn't in the database and all editing is done now anyways, and Raware, Shearer is in the database, but I opted to send him to Southampton as its thanks to them his career started. Plus I just couldn't resist the thought of Tugay in a suit. Or clean-shaven. ***** Portsmouth Last Seasons Finish: 14th New Manager: Kit Symons Rundown: It seems that Pompey are struggling with life without 'Arry. A measly 14th place finish was a rather decent in all honesty, but Portsmouth are losing their best players quickly, and they have a rather aged defence. Portsmouth look like a club on a slippery scale downwards, and its a wonder how they survived last season. This season will be different, and its hard not to look at them and think they're in for a tough season. It's now up to Kit Symons to save his club, but can the Welshman do it? Squad: As mentioned, Pompey have an awfully old defence that is backed up with inexperienced youngstes e.g. Crainie and Wilson. They lack any wingers at all, Utaka the closest thing to a right sider they have. Up frnt, Portsmouth do have some power though, Crouch, Nugent and Kanu all capable of grabbing goals, as is Utaka. Additions are a must, or Pompey will go down. Highlight of the Season: Final day survival. Player to Watch: Niko Kranjcar ***** Stoke City Last Seasons Finish: 12th New Manager: Sammy McIlroy Rundown: Pulis' reign ends on a very impressive 12th place finish in their first Premiership season, but former Stoke favourite McIlroy steps up to try and hopefully keep Stoke in the Premiership once again. Last seasons terrific effort was widely put down to Stoke's ability of taking the lead and holding it, also down in no small part to Delaps' crazy long throws. Stoke need more of the same this season, and should, in all honesty, manage it. Squad: Stoke do have a thoroughly decent squad when you look at it. A strikeforce consisting of Beattie, Kitson and Cresswell should bag them some goals, while their midfield is stacked with useful players such as Whelan, Lawrence, Delap and Etherington. One slight problem could be a lack of wingers, with their being no backup for Lawrence or Etherington. The defence is also understaffed, the centre back position a potential problem. Expect some arrivals, but none major. Highlight of the Season: Comfortable survival. Player to Watch: Liam Lawrence ***** Sunderland Last Seasons Finish: 16th New Manager: Dariusz Kubicki Rundown: Dariusz returns to the Stadium of Light on the back of an unsuccessful spell managing in his native Poland, and picks up from the leftovers of Sbragia's final day survival from last season, Ricky stepping down after ensuring their survival. Sunderland and their free spending Niall Quinn will be looking upwards now, the money they have spent surely assuring them at least a top 13 finish this season. Sunderland are probably the biggest threat to Fulham's chances of 10th place. Squad: Sunderland have spent well, that much is obvious. They have a solid set up that is shown by a good depth amongst the players. They do, however, lack a solid strikeforce that is guaranteed to bring them money. Fraizer Campbell and Kenwyne Jones though, could provide a good partnership if they forge well and early enough. Expect a striker to join up though, along with a centre back and a couple of midfielders. Highlight of the Season: 10th place battle with Fulham Player to Watch: Craig Gordon Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted September 29, 2009 Author Share Posted September 29, 2009 Tottenham Hotspur Last Seasons Finish: 8th New Manager: David Ginola Rundown: Tottenham have finally begun to make a force of themselves, last seasons finish a good indication of things to come. Redknapp has gone now, leaving midfield sensation Ginola the keys to White Hart Lane. Spurs will also have Europa League football to deal with this season, and it will remain to be seen whether they can juggle both alongside each other, as many teams have failed to do in the past. Squad: Spurs look emphatically strong this season, with a strong midfield consiting of Modric, Lennon, Palacios, Jenas and Bentley, and strikers such as Pavyluchenko, Defoe, Bent and Keane. At the back, they aren't so strong, Woodgate and King both prone to consistent injury, as is Dawson. Other than the backline, Tottenham are strong, in depth too, and will be a force this season for sure, providing Ginola can find the same level Redknapp did. Highlight of the Season: 5th place battle, and perhaps another cup final appearance. Player to Watch: Jermain Defoe ***** West Ham United Last Seasons Finish: 9th New Manager: Julian Dicks Rundown: Dicks returns to Upton Park after a splendid season from Zola. West Ham didn't start strong, but turned themselves into a good side, and secured an impressive 9th spot. Zola has moved on to Chelsea now, and defensive legend Dicks must carry the mantel once more. West Ham have all the possibilities to succeed in the top 10, but never seem to consistently fulfil their ambition. West Ham need to continue to secure good finishes, or they will just languish midtable forever. Squad: The players West Ham do have are of excellent quality e.g. Cole, Ashton, Behrami, Upson, Green, Parker and youngsters Collison and Noble. The arrival of playmaker Jimenez is a nice coup for the Hammers, but more will need to follow. They have only two strikers on the first team cards, and the youngsters don't seem up to the challenge right now. Arrivals will come, but on the issue of money being spent, its hard to say. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table obscurity. Player to Watch: Dean Ashton ***** Wigan Athletic Last Seasons Finish: 11th New Manager: Graham Kavanagh Rundown: A superb 11th place finish last season saw Wigan show off their South American talents. Sadly, the players in question moved on, as did manager Martinez, leaving fans favourite Kavanagh to take charge. Its hard to see Wigan emulating anything more than 11th place once more, but the squad is decent enough to hold on to their league status for another year. Don't expect fireworks, though. Squad: Wigan have a nice unit set up for Kavanagh to work with, but the loss of Valencia and Palacios are hard ones to replace. Despite this, Wigan seem confident that the likes of Watson and McCarthy can step up, while they still have hot property in the shape of Cattermole and veteran midfielder Brown. One paper, the South American strikeforce looks decent, but whether King can avoid injury and Scotland can perform at this level is another question. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table obscurity at best. Player to Watch: Lee Cattermole ***** Wolverhampton Wanderers Last Seasons Finish: 1st (Coca Cola Championship Champions) New Manager: Steve Bull Rundown: Bull scored over 250 goals for Wolves in his career, and he will no doubt be pleased to return to his favourite club. Bull is a hero in the eyes of all Wolves fans, and will now have to hope he can as memorable a job in management. Wolves took the Championship title without much aggro last season to seal their return to the Premiership. Wolves will hope to make more of an effort in staying up this time. Squad: Wolves look like the classic sight of any newly promoted club to the Premiership. They lack Premieship experience. Only newly signed striker Kevin Doyle has any idea of how to handle the Premiership, himself bagging a few goals for Reading during their stay. They have a big and okay squad, but these players are at best Championship players, and will struggle in the long term of this season. Even with new players, its doubtful to be enough. Highlight of the Season: Relegation without finishing bottom. Player to Watch: Nenad Milijas Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 7, 2009 Author Share Posted October 7, 2009 Coca-Cola Championship Barnsley Last Seasons Finish: 20th New Manager: Gerry Taggart Rundown: Struggled last season and may struggle once more. Taggart has a tough job on his hands. The squad may need deepening too. Could be all down to Iain Hume, and if they don't sell him and give him good service, should do them a great service. Highlight of the Season: Tight survival once more. Player to Watch: Iain Hume ***** Blackpool Last Seasons Finish: 16th New Manager: Andy Preece Rundown: Blackpool enjoyed a fairly okay season just gone, but will have to work harder this time round with the good squads littering the Championship now. Former 'Pool striker Preece needs to get his side firing the goals in, something they weren't too good at last season, averaging very little over a goal a game. Defensive holding man Southern could be key player for them this season. Highlight of the Season: A decent cup run perhaps. Player to Watch: Keith Southern ***** Bristol City Last Seasons Finish: 10th New Manager: Shaun Goater Rundown: Goater returns to Bristol for the first time since the mid-nineties on the revival of City's fortunes. Gary Johnson set up an excellent unit with this side, and they came close to the Premiership two seasons ago. Its highly possible again, if Goater can bring the right men in and charge up the table early on. Highlight of the Season: Playoff spot. Player to Watch: Michael McIndoe ***** Cardiff City Last Seasons Finish: 7th New Manager: Cohen Griffith Rundown: Cardiff only missed out on a playoff spot last season due to having scored one less goal than Preston. Cardiff do look strong in their side though, and its hard not looking to them for a top half finish. A few key signings and they will be in the playoffs for definite. Griffith is a legend in Cardiff, bagging 30 goals in just over 200 appearances. Highlight of the Season: Top ten/playoff spot. Player to Watch: Michael Chopra Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 8, 2009 Author Share Posted October 8, 2009 Coventry City Last Seasons Finish: 17th New Manager: Steve Ogrizovic Rundown: Legendary stopper Ogrizovic has a big job on his hands. Coventry are a talented side, no matter how you look at it, they're players are capable of alot. But they just cannot get it right, and Steve has this to rectify. A few key signings and Coventry could be in business, but just can't see it happening this season. They also need to get Eastwood to his Southend form. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table obscurity. Player to Watch: Freddy Eastwood ***** Crystal Palace Last Seasons Finish: 15th New Manager: Fan Zhiyi Rundown: Palace are on a slippery slope at the moment. Despite some good recent season, they seem to have lost their best players, and are now fodder for the lower half battle. As the good players leave, not many are filling their boots, youngsters being chosen ahead. Some aren't experienced, and others just aren't good enough. Expect disappointment for Palace unless former left back Zhiyi can bring some good players in and drag them up the table for the better. Highlight of the Season: Lower half finish. Player to Watch: Julian Speroni ***** Derby County Last Seasons Finish: 18th New Manager: Dean Saunders Rundown: Last season was awful for Derby. An abysmal 18th place finish with a squad that should in all honesty be doing better. Dean Saunders returns to Derby to try and steady the ship. Being frank, they shouldn't have any troubles being involved in the top half providing they get it right this season. Saunders has managerial experience with Wrexham and assistant to Wales, and will need to call on this. A squad with the likes of Ellington, Hulse, Commons and Barnes should do well, in truth. Highlight of the Season: Top half finish. Player to Watch: Giles Barnes ****** Doncaster Rovers Last Seasons Finish: 14th New Manager: Dino Maamria Rundown: Maamria impressed at Rovers at the turn of the millennia and makes his return on the back of a very decent 14th place finish courtesy of Sean O'Driscoll. Rovers have a fairly good squad, and will need to build on last season in the aim of trying to push back up. A few signings may be needed to bolster the squad, but depth wise, Donny should have a good season. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table finish. Player to Watch: Brian Stock ****** Ipswich Town Last Seasons Finish: 9th New Manager: Mauricio Taricco Rundown: Ipswich begin the season on the back of a credible 9th place last season. They have a good squad, and a very good batch of youngsters coming through. Former Argentine defender Taricco returns to Ipswich to lead them onwards, and has inherited a decent squad. Having played here in the 90's, he will need to adjust quickly to lead Ipswich. With the right signings, expect them to be in the playoffs or top half at least. Highlight of the Season: Top half finish/playoff position. Player to Watch: Luciano Civelli Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Conman14 Posted October 8, 2009 Share Posted October 8, 2009 Interested to see who's in charge of the Saints Looking good so far though Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 8, 2009 Author Share Posted October 8, 2009 Thanks conman. You'll soon see. Though if you look upthread, you will find out ***** Leicester City Last Seasons Finish: 1st (Champions of Coca Cola League One) New Manager: Tim Flowers Rundown: Another former goalkeeper takes the reigns of his club, Flowers returning to Leicester to lead the Foxes in their automatic bounce back to the Championship. Leicester shouldn't have truthfully gone down, and the squad they do have is more than capable of doing well here too. Expect some good Leicester performances. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table finish. Player to Watch: Matty Fryatt ***** Middlesbrough Last Seasons Finish: 19th (Relegated from Premiership) New Manager: Christian Karembeu Rundown: One season wonder Karembeu returns to Boro on the back of relegation from the Premiership. In all truth, it shouldn't have happened, but it has, and with Southgate gone, Karembeu sealed the job, Colin Cooper opting to stay on as staff. The Frenchman doesn't need to do a whole lot of rebuilding work, but will have to be wary that players will want to move on. Middlesbrough should be up there no matter what. Highlight of the Season: Top 3. Player to Watch: Sanli Tuncay ***** Newcastle United Last Seasons Finish: 18th (Relegated from Premiership) New Manager: Peter Beardsley Rundown: Newcastle should never have gone down. But four managers in one season and an owner that just hasn't got a clue, and they found themselves plunging through the trapdoor. They now have to work hard to try and bounce back immediately. The sale of the club is still ongoing, and players are expected to leave. Despite this, I have no doubts Newcastle should be promoted. Legendary Tynesider Beardsley takes over, and having spent a fair amount of time on the backroom staff, should have what it takes to get them back up. Highlight of the Season: Automatic promotion. Player to Watch: Kevin Nolan ****** Nottingham Forest Last Seasons Finish: 19th New Manager: Nigel Clough Rundown: From one Clough to another. The son of the prodigal son returns to Forest to try and turn their fortunes around. Who knows, maybe he can take them as far as his father. But for now, his job is to ensure Forest can stay in the Championship. They have a strong squad, and last seasons 19th place should more than likely be bettered upon. Don't expect too many arrivals though. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table finish. Player to Watch: Chris Cohen ****** Peterborough United Last Seasons Finish: 2nd (Promoted from Coca Cola League One) New Manager: Ken Charlery Rundown: Peterborough's version of King Kev returns to manage the Posh on the back of their excellent promotion to the Championship. They are going to find it tough, thats for sure, but for what they lack in Championship talent, they make up in grit and determination, and should manage survival with a few key signings and the holding on to hot talent Boyd. Highlight of the Season: Tight survival. Player to Watch: George Boyd Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Conman14 Posted October 8, 2009 Share Posted October 8, 2009 Oh I should've read Good choice You have me curious.... Although I would've thought Niemi was more of a legend at the Saints than at Fulham... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 8, 2009 Author Share Posted October 8, 2009 I know. Sadly, its all about spreading the available people inthe database around. Some clubs got others while some had to settle for someone else. Sadly not much I could do as I wasn't interested in creating people for the game itself. ***** Plymouth Argyle Last Seasons Finish: 21st New Manager: David Friio Rundown: It was a tough, tough season just gone for Plymouth, but somehow they survived and will this season look to former midfield dynamo Friio to try and revamp their fortunes. A lot of works needs doing, but the squad is fairly decent. Plymouth need to believe they can do better and Frenchman Friio is the man to do so. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table finish. Player to Watch: Krisztian Timar ***** Preston North End Last Seasons Finish: 6th New Manager: Eric Skora Rundown: Skora is a cult hero with Preston fans, but he ended his career himself aged just 25. He is now 26, and the youngest manager to be appointed in recent weeks. Preston had an excellent season just gone, but despite sneaking a playoff place, they made little of it as they were easily toppled by Sheffield United on route to the final. Preston have a good squad, and Skora is talented, so expect another good Preston season. Highlight of the Season: Top 9. Player to Watch: Barry Nicholson ***** Queens Park Rangers Last Seasons Finish: 11th New Manager: Les Ferdinand Rundown: Q.P.R cult hero Ferdinand returns during exciting times for the side. With an abundance of money at the club, Ferdinand will have free reign to spend it, with caution of course. Last seasons 11th place finish was good, but the owners will want more now, meaning the pressure is likely to be on Ferdinand from the off. Highlight of the Season: Top 10. Player to Watch: Akos Buzsaky ****** Reading Last Seasons Finish: 4th New Manager: Jimmy Quinn Rundown: Readings top league scorer Jimmy Quinn takes charge of the club at a time when they expect promotion at least. Reading missed out on promotion last season after losing to Burnley in the playoffs (who then went on to win at Sheff Utd). Reading have a very decent squad, so they will need to make sure they push on towards the top otherwise fans hero Quinn will be out rather quicker than he might hope. Expectations are high at Reading. Highlight of the Season: Playoffs. Player to Watch: Andre Bikey ****** Scunthorpe United Last Seasons Finish: 6th (Playoff Winners from Coca Cola League One) New Manager: Ray Clemence Rundown: Clemence returns to the club that started his career back into the sixties, allowing him to become one of the most decorated keepers in recent years. Scunthorpe stole promotion from under the noses of all the other playoff sides last season, themselves the weakest side on paper in it. But they pulled it off, and now once more will battle in the Championship. They don't look strong though, so its likely they fall straight back down. Plenty of signings will be needed to avoid this, but its unlikely. Highlight of the Season: Relegation without finishing bottom. Player to Watch: Rob Jones Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
CAFCIan75 Posted October 9, 2009 Share Posted October 9, 2009 Great thread Gavrenwick, I am interested to see who gets the Charlton job. Being I die hard supporter Richard Rufus would be my prefered choice not that I am trying to influence you in any way! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 9, 2009 Author Share Posted October 9, 2009 Thanks CAFCIAN. I initially opted for Kinsella, but had to amend my decision to fit him for another side, so you'll have a short wait to find out! ****** Sheffield United Last Seasons Finish: 3rd New Manager: Paul Peschisolido Rundown: It was hard on Sheff Utd last season, having missed out on automatic promotion so narrowly, they then fell sucker to the curse of losing to a weaker side in the playoffs, and that happened against Burnley in the final. They now have to pick themselves up, and three season hero Peschisolido takes charge to try and achieve this. The squad is strong, and shouldn't have a problem finding the top of the table once more. All depends on Peschisolido. Highlight of the Season: Top 5. Player to Watch: Nick Montgomery ***** Sheffield Wednesday Last Seasons Finish: 12th New Manager: Regi Blinker Rundown: The blue half of Sheffield enjoyed a mediocre yet possibly successful season just gone, finishing a respectable 12th under Brian Laws. Up steps the former Dutch player Regi Blinker, to hopefully carry on the surge from Wednesday. A lot of work to be done as Wednesday have a small squad, but they should have an okay season under Regi. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table. Player to Watch: Marcus Tudgay ***** Swansea City Last Seasons Finish: 8th New Manager: Dzemal Hadziabdic Rundown: Former Yugoslavian now Bosnian Dzemal played for Swansea during the the beginning of the 80's, cementing himself as a rare foreign success. Swansea have moved on in leaps and bounds since then, finishing an excellent 8th, which got Martinez noticed. He moved on, leaving the helm to be gifted to Dzemal. Swansea have a good squad, and a nice mixture of foreigners, so expect to see a good challenge from them this season. Highlight of the Season: Top 10. Player to Watch: Ferrie Bodde ****** Watford Last Seasons Finish: 13th New Manager: Luther Blissett Rundown: There was no-one else who would have fit this job so perfectly. Luther returns to Watford after cementing himself as their most played player and the top scorer in their history. Luther has a good challenge on his hands too, Watford achieving an average 13th place finish last season, meaning there is room for improvement. A fairly decent squad could do with some additions, but the potential is there. Highlight of the Season: Possible cup run. Player to Watch: Tommy Smith ****** West Bromwich Albion Last Seasons Finish: 20th (Relegated from the Premiership) New Manager: Cyrille Regis Rundown: Regis started his career with West Brom back in 70's, and now he finds himself back once more. West Brom suffered the usual of relegation from Premiership last season, and Regis will be hoping to bounce them back. West Brom have a very strong squad, so its definite they will be up there alongside Newcastle and Middlesbrough. Highlight of the Season: Automatic promotion. Player to Watch: Juan Carlos Menseguez Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 9, 2009 Author Share Posted October 9, 2009 Coca Cola League One Brentford Last Seasons Finish: 1st (Champions of Coca Cola League Two) New Manager: Marcus Gayle Rundown: It was a great season for Brentford, securing the championship and promotion back to the League One. Brentford favourite Marcus Gayle returns to the club to try and keep them in League One this season, something that will be a tough challenge for all involved. On loan Lewis Price in goal could be the key. Highlight of the Season: Tight survival. Player to Watch: Lewis Price ***** Brighton and Hove Albion Last Seasons Finish: 16th New Manager: Steve Gatting Rundown: Gatting made his debut for Brighton in 1981, and stayed with til '91, making over 300 appearances for the seaside club. Brighton endured a tough season just gone, and only survived by the skin of their teeth. Gatting has experience training the Arsenal youth team, so will need to call upon this to help him keep Brighton up. The squad is fairly decent, and should manage the task. Highlight of the Season: Lower half finish. Player to Watch: Liam Dickinson ***** Bristol Rovers Last Seasons Finish: 11th New Manager: Nigel Martyn Rundown: A very decent 11th place finish frm Bristol last season saw them progress well, and now they should aim to push further up. Nigel Martyn started his career with Bristol, and went on to make a name for himself before moving on. He returns to try and improve the fortunes of the blue half of Bristol, maybe even get them to City's level. The squad is okay, but additions will need to be made. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table. Player to Watch: Rickie Lambert ****** Carlisle United Last Seasons Finish: 20th New Manager: Zigor Aranalde Rundown: Carlisle struggled a lot last season, and a final day survival was lucky for them. But they managed it, and survived to play another season in League One. They will need to improve though, and fans favourite Spanishman Zigor Aranalde takes charge to try and steer them higher. Highlight of the Season: Lower half finish. Player to Watch: Peter Murphy ****** Charlton Athletic Last Seasons Finish: 24th (Relegated from Coca Cola Championship) New Manager: Richard Rufus Rundown: Rufus only ever played for Charlton, and returns to take charge during troubled times for his club. Seems a long time now since Charlton were in the Premiership. They now have to try and adjust to life in League One, and with money problems, might even get hit with a points deduction. Rufus has a lot to do, and a lot to cope with, but he needs to get cracking. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table (higher if not hit with points deduction). Player to Watch: Jonathan Fortune Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 9, 2009 Author Share Posted October 9, 2009 Colchester United Last Seasons Finish: 12th New Manager: Mark Kinsella Rundown: Colchester favourite Kinsella turned down the chance to return to Charlton for the club that made him noticed. Colchester experienced a mediocre season last, and will hope, or aim, to try and push up the table with the right signings. Some talented players litter Colchester's squad, but they need to find the right mixture. Highlight of the Season: Top 12. Player to Watch: Simon Hackney ***** Exeter City Last Seasons Finish: 2nd (Automatic promotion from Coca Cola League Two) New Manager: David Pleat Rundown: Former player, manager, commentator and now returned manager Pleat takes charge of Exeter at a time when an experienced hand could do them good. Having just won a surprising promotion from League Two, Exeter need to adapt to life in League One, and need to make a few key signings if they are to stay there. Pleat has contacts, and should be able to manage this, but expect a relegation scrap. Highlight of the Season: Relegation scrap. Player to Watch: Barry Corr ***** Gillingham Last Seasons Finish: 5th (Playoff Winners from Coca Cola League Two) New Manager: Tony Cascarino Rundown: Legendary Gills and Ireland striker Cascarino joins the club on the back of a troubled period in the media. The former striker now must turn his attention to the tough task of keeping Gillingham in League One. The Gills have a decent squad, and should at least make a fight of staying up. Expect goals, especially after Cascarino's history. Highlight of the Season: Lower half finish. Player to Watch: Kevin Maher ****** Hartlepool United Last Seasons Finish: 19th New Manager: Jan Ove Pedersen Rundown: Danish Pedersen spent half a season on loan to Hartlepool in the 90's, and became a cult hero in those short few months. Hartlepool only just managed to survive last season, a point by the end of the season. They will need to do more if they are to manage it again, and no doubt Jeff Stelling will be cheering Pedersen on. Highlight of the Season: Lower half finish. Player to Watch: Rune Lange ****** Huddersfield Town Last Seasons Finish: 9th New Manager: Nico Vaesen Rundown: Vaesen was a hero for Huddersfield as a keeper, the Belgian making over a hundred twenty appearances during his stay in 3 seasons. Huddersfield enjoyed a good last term, the side finishing 9th and looking this season to maybe push further. They definitely have the squad to do so, so expect something good from Hudders. Highlight of the Season: Top 10. Player to Watch: Michael Collins Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 10, 2009 Author Share Posted October 10, 2009 Leeds United Last Seasons Finish: 4th New Manager: Lucas Radebe Rundown: Leeds have had a massive fall from grace over recent years, but the strive and desire to make it back to the top are still there. They enjoyed a good season just gone, and will need to build on that under the stewardship of ex-South African defender Radebe, who made all his appearances in England for Leeds, somehow never scoring a goal. Leeds have a talented squad, but will need to make certain they hold on to their key assets. Highlight of the Season: Playoff spot. Player to Watch: Jermaine Beckford ***** Leyton Orient Last Seasons Finish: 14th New Manager: Glenn Roeder Rundown: Roeder began his career at Orient before hitting the bigger scene with Newcastle United. He has ex-managerial experience with Newcastle and West Ham, two big sides, and should call on his expertise to help Orient this season. Orient have an okay squad, but will need to add to it if they harbour hopes of pushing up the league. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table. Player to Watch: Charlie Daniels ***** Millwall Last Seasons Finish: 5th New Manager: John Fashanu Rundown: Fashanu was a decent striker in his day, and his time at Millwall wasn't forgotten. Having just left his job as hot of Deal or No Deal Nigeria, he finds himself at the helm of Millwall with the aims of another playoff place once more. A decent 5th place finish last season was dwarfed out by a poor showing in the playoffs, leaving them in League One once more. Millwall certainly have the players, they just need to put it into action now. Highlight of the Season: Playoffs. Player to Watch: Zak Whitbread ****** Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
babyburns Posted October 10, 2009 Share Posted October 10, 2009 Good luck to Wor Peter at Newcastle Oh and John Fashanu Gladiators at Millwall - Awooga Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
SCIAG Posted October 11, 2009 Share Posted October 11, 2009 This should be very interesting gav When is the database you're using from? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 11, 2009 Author Share Posted October 11, 2009 Thanks guys. SCIAG - I list the database at the top, but by you asking, I assume this isn't the answer you're looking for? ***** Milton Keynes Dons Last Seasons Finish: 3rd New Manager: Tore Andre Flo Rundown: MK Dons haven't been in existence for long, forming themselves frm the old Wimbledon side. With little history to work with, recently released Flo becomes the new manager, himself making 12 appearances for Dons last season. A powerful 3rd place finish was followed up with a disappointing showing in the playoffs, Scunthorpe excelling there. They have a decent squad, and should have no problem challenging up there this season. Highlight of the Season: Top 8. Player to Watch: Peter Leven ***** Norwich City Last Seasons Finish: 22nd (Relegated from Coca Cola Championship) New Manager: Chris Sutton Rundown: Sutton made his name at Norwich before moving on to Blackburn and winning the Premiership title. Norwich endured an abysmal season just gone, and will look to put it behind them as they try and return to the Championship at the first attempt. The squad is still fairly intact, but they will need to add to it, and then hopefully make their mark on the season. Highlight of the Season: Top half finish. Player to Watch: Jamie Cureton ***** Oldham Athletic Last Seasons Finish: 10th New Manager: Mark Crossley Rundown: Crossley became a hero last season with his goalkeeping heroics, placing him in the mindset of the fans. He was the first name to come up on Oldhams list for a new manager, and now must get to work on pushing Oldham up the league. A decent 10th place finish must surely be bettered this season, additions will be needed if so. Highlight of the Season: Lower half finish. Player to Watch: Sean Gregan ****** Southampton Last Seasons Finish: 23rd (Relegated from Coca Cola Championship) New Manager: Alan Shearer Rundown: Southampton endured an awful last season, and will be quickly looking to put it behind themselves. They are now under the leadership of legend striker Shearer who got his big break with the south coast side. He now must lead them back to the Championship, in a surprisingly similar fashion to ex-strike partner Sutton at Norwich. Southampton have a decent squad, so there is no excuse to not see them battling at the top. Highlight of the Season: Top 6. Player to Watch: Morgan Schneiderlin ****** Southend United Last Seasons Finish: 8th New Manager: Frank Lampard Snr Rundown: Lampard was a legend at West Ham, but his move to Southend saw him become a cult hero in his only and final season for the club. He now takes up the managerial mantle to try and steer Southend back to the Championship. They came close to the playoffs with a decent 8th placed finish, but more will be required if they are to make the step up, and many think they can't. Highlight of the Season: Top 10. Player to Watch: Alan McCormack Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saxonaitor Posted October 12, 2009 Share Posted October 12, 2009 Lets Hope Mr Sutton has a better time than Mr Gunn eh? Keep it up gav! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Standard liege! Posted October 12, 2009 Share Posted October 12, 2009 Kit Symons - cant be worse than Hart! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 12, 2009 Author Share Posted October 12, 2009 Thanks Sax and liege. ***** Stockport County Last Seasons Finish: 18th New Manager: Chris Marsden Rundown: After last seasons poor 18th place finish, and frankly lucky to have avoided relegation, Stockport go into the new season with the same problems. A small squad with only a few talented players needs adding to, and with money scarce, might be harder than people think. Former player Marsden has a massive job to do, and he needs to get cracking soon. Highlight of the Season: Relegation struggle. Player to Watch: Peter Thompson ***** Swindon Town Last Seasons Finish: 15th New Manager: Bart Griemink Rundown: Goalkeeping legend Griemink takes charge during expectant times at Swindon. Last seasons poor 15th finish is definitely going to be improved on, or at least if Greimink hopes of keeping his job. The squad is fairly decent, and should have no trouble in competing higher up the table. Highlight of the Season: Mid table. Player to Watch: Alan O'Brien ***** Tranmere Rovers Last Seasons Finish: 7th New Manager: Jason McAteer Rundown: Fans favourite McAteer takes charge during good times for Tranmere. Last seasons 7th place finish saw the side just miss out on a playoff spot, but they will be more determined this season. The only thing preventing them is the depth of their squad, something McAteer must seriously look at first. Highlight of the Season: Top half finish. Player to Watch: Alan Mahon ****** Walsall Last Seasons Finish: 13th New Manager: Adrian Viveash Rundown: An average finish for Walsall last season, but a decent one none the less. They are now led by former defender Viveash, who spent most probably his best seasons at Walsall. Walsall must now try and plan for moving up the table, but its most likely with their current squad that they will end up staying roughly where they finished last season. Highlight of the Season: Mid table. Player to Watch: Sofiane Zaaboub ****** Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted October 13, 2009 Author Share Posted October 13, 2009 Wycombe Wanderers Last Seasons Finish: 3rd (Automatic Promotion from Coca Cola League Two) New Manager: Steve Guppy Rundown: Wycombe hero Guppy takes charge of Wycombe during their return to League One. After a successful campaign in League Two last season, Wycombe must now turn their attention to staying in this league. They have a full and decent squad, and should just about manage it but a few additions wouldn't go a miss. Highlight of the Season: Lower half finish. Player to Watch: Tommy Doherty ***** Yeovil City Last Seasons Finish: 17th New Manager: Guy Whittingham Rundown: Legend striker Whittingham returns to the club that sparked his career off, on the back of a disappointing 17th place finish last season. Yeovil must now try and improve under Guy, hopeful of trying to push up the table and achieving more than just surviving. The squad is pretty weak, and still lacks the depth which means they could be in for a struggle. Highlight of the Season: Relegation scrap. Player to Watch: Terrell Forbes ****** Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted November 20, 2009 Author Share Posted November 20, 2009 Coca Cola League Two Accrington Stanley Last Seasons Finish: 16th New Manager: Paul Mullin Rundown: Accrington did well on their return to the football league, but will definitely need to strengthen their short in numbers squad before they try to survive again. Mullin has a lot of work to do to ensure this, knowing money will be tight. Highlight of the Season: Tight survival. Player to Watch: Andrew Proctor ***** Aldershot Town Last Seasons Finish: 15th New Manager: Darren Barnard Rundown: Barnard spent three excellent final seasons with Aldershot, and returns a hero and now a manager. Aldershot didn't excel to much last season, but this season will most definitely push to improve on their 15th place last season. The squad is fairly strong, and a few additions will see them push further up the table. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table finish. Player to Watch: John Grant ***** Barnet Last Seasons Finish: 17th New Manager: Guiliano Grazioli Rundown: Barnet had a weak season just gone, and will want to try and improve that under former striker Grazioli. Barnet have a fairly young and decent squad that is backed up with experienced veterans such as Paul Furlong and Micah Hyde. Barnet should be a good force for the coming season, and could turn Underhill into a fortress if Grazioli can get them firing on all cylinders. Highlight of the Season: Mid-table. Player to Watch: Paul Furlong ****** Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted November 23, 2009 Author Share Posted November 23, 2009 AFC Bournemouth Last Seasons Finish: 21st New Manager: Eddie Howe Rundown: Howe keeps his job at Bournemouth, and after last seasons story of survival with the points deduction, they must now aim upwards. They have a decent squad, and should be able to push up the league with some ease. Midtable is most likely for Bournemouth this season, but the right signings could see them push further up towards the playoffs. Highlight of the Season: Promotion push with the right players. Player to Watch: Liam Feeney ***** Bradford City Last Seasons Finish: 9th New Manager: John Hendrie Rundown: Hendrie returns to the club he played for from '84 to 88 making over 150 appearances for Bradford. He's now the manager after finishing his career with Boro in 1996. Bradford did well last term, just missing out on a playoff spot though by two points. Bradford have a good squad, and they will definitely be up there once again. Highlight of the Season: Playoffs. Player to Watch: Gareth Evans ***** Burton Albion Last Seasons Finish: 1st (Blue Square Premier) New Manager: Darren Wassall Rundown: Wassall returns to the club where he ended in his career in 2005, and picks up the reigns after Nigel Clough led the side to promotion to the football league last season. This season, however, is going to be very tough for Burton. Getting to the football league is one matter, but staying there is a whole different one. Burton will be on the list of favourites to go down, but they will make a fight of it for certain. Highlight of the Season: Relegation scrap. Player to Watch: Keith Gilroy Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted January 17, 2010 Author Share Posted January 17, 2010 Going to have to shorten the minor descriptions so can push on with this. ***** Bury Last Seasons Finish: 4th New Manager: Efe Sodje Highlight of the Season: Top 10 finish. Player to Watch: Ryan Lowe ***** Cheltenham Town Last Seasons Finish: 23rd (Relegated from League One) New Manager: Jerry Gill Highlight of the Season: A good cup run. Player to Watch: Elvis Hammond ***** Chesterfield Last Seasons Finish: 10th New Manager: Ernie Moss Highlight of the Season: Top 10 finish again. Player to Watch: Derek Niven ***** Crewe Alexandra Last Seasons Finish: 22nd (Relegated from League One) New Manager: Jason Kearton Highlight of the Season: An immediate return to League One. Player to Watch: Simon Walton ***** Dagenham & Redbridge Last Seasons Finish: 8th New Manager: Mark Stein Highlight of the Season: Pushing for a playoff spot. Player to Watch: Mark Arber ***** Darlington Last Seasons Finish: 12th New Manager: Alan Walsh Highlight of the Season: Most likely the same as last season, mid-table obscurity. Player to Watch: Chris Lumsdon ***** Grimsby Town Last Seasons Finish: 22nd New Manager: John McDermott Highlight of the Season: Survival would be an achievement. Player to Watch: Jean-Louis Akpa-Akpro ***** Hereford United Last Seasons Finish: 24th (Relegated from League One) New Manager: Kevin Sheedy Highlight of the Season: An immediate promotion spot. Player to Watch: Kenny Lunt ***** Lincoln City Last Seasons Finish: 13th New Manager: Neil Redfearn Highlight of the Season: Mid-table. Player to Watch: Janos Kovacs ***** Macclesfield Town Last Seasons Finish: 20th New Manager: John Askey Highlight of the Season: Anything would be better than 20th place. Player to Watch: Paul Bolland ***** Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted January 17, 2010 Author Share Posted January 17, 2010 Morecambe Last Seasons Finish: 11th New Manager: Jim Harvey Highlight of the Season: Top 10 finish. Player to Watch: Will Haining ***** Northampton Town Last Seasons Finish: 21st (Relegated from League Two) New Manager: Ian Sampson Highlight of the Season: Playoff spot. Player to Watch: Adebayo Akinfenwa ***** Notts County Last Seasons Finish: 19th New Manager: Radojko Avramovic Highlight of the Season: The money should see them promoted. Watch them flop. Player to Watch: Kasper Schmiechel ***** Port Vale Last Seasons Finish: 18th New Manager: Micky Adams Highlight of the Season: Mid-table obscurity. Player to Watch: Marc Richards ***** Rochdale Last Seasons Finish: 6th New Manager: Alan Reeves Highlight of the Season: A second push for playoffs. Player to Watch: Chris Dagnall ***** Rotherham United Last Seasons Finish: 14th New Manager: Mark Robbins Highlight of the Season: Mid-table obscurity. Player to Watch: Adam Le Fondre ***** Shrewsbury Town Last Seasons Finish: 7th New Manager: Jason Van Blerk Highlight of the Season: Top 10 finish. Player to Watch: Paul Murray ***** Torquay United Last Seasons Finish: 4th (Playoff Winners) New Manager: Alex Watson Highlight of the Season: Staying up. Player to Watch: Chris Hargreaves Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted January 17, 2010 Author Share Posted January 17, 2010 7th July – 14th July 2009 - Premiership MAN CITY’S MAXI SPENDING Story of the Week Manchester City got the transfer window rolling with the expensive capture of Atletico Madrid dynamo Maxi Rodriguez. Atletico were seemingly resigned with losing their talismanic attacking midfielder, who was instrumental last season making 33 appearances and finding the back of the net six times. Rodriguez, 28, had been in Spain since 2002 when he joined Espanyol from Argentinean side Newell’s. The move brings an end to his seven year stay in the country, but a move to England was always looking likely with reported interest from Liverpool and Chelsea on top of Man City’s bid. The Argentinean international completes his move with the fee being a reported £21million. He will be on a £63,000 a week contract, a contract that will see him remain at City of Manchester Stadium until 2014. “With the way the club is aiming to move forward, I can only express my extreme happiness at signing for Manchester City.” “A lot of really talented players are going to be coming through the door here, and I can’t wait to link up with them,” Maxi told the gathered reporters. The signing is the first big signing and it signals a massive intent from Manchester City to try and break the top four. New manager Uwe Rosler was a striker himself, and knew how to find the net. Manchester City though, optimistic in cause, still need to bolster their defensive line, as the current batch is slightly lacking in experience and quality. “We will still need to bring people in,” the German said, “Especially at the back. But for now I am going to take my time. Maxi is someone I had my eye on as soon as I took charge, so rushing a deal through was imperative for me.” Atletico manager Abel Resino was slightly saddened at losing one of his best midfield players, but said, “I am confident we can use the money to bring some new blood into the club. We wish Maxi all the best.” And the manager wasn’t lying, a bid for Marcos Senna being made a day after the sale of Maxi. TRANSFER ROUNDUP There were six other big moves in the Premiership this week, one including Manchester City again. Left back Javier Garrido, who only signed for Man City in 2007, moves on loan to Spanish side Osasuna. Javier, 24, seems to have failed at settling in with the Mancunian club and a request for a temporary move was accepted last week. A loan fee was paid by Osasuna, roughly around £250,000. Arsenal also captured a big signing, though clearly when planning the move, the future wasn’t too high on their minds. Sporting Lisbon’s Portuguese striker Liedson moves to the London club on a 3-year deal worth £27,500 a week. The striker, moving for just over £4.5million, stated that he wanted one shot at the Premiership before retiring from the game. Two players made moves from one Premiership club to another as Everton sealed the signing of Erik Edman for £2.6million from Wigan Athletic and Papa Bouba Diop moved from Portsmouth to Aston Villa for £2.3million. Both players are into their thirties, and expressed making the moves to extend their careers and chances of silverware. There was also an air of nostalgia as two players made their return to England after stints abroad. Jim Brennan, former Norwich and Nottingham Forest makes a £150,000 move to Birmingham City, and Sylvain Wiltord signed a one year deal with Burnley, signing on a free transfer after his release from Marseille. OTHER TRANSFERS Andrew Driver – Hearts to Wolverhampton Wanderers - £1.6million Dorian Dervite – Tottenham to Watford – Season-Long Loan Dylan McGowan – Hearts to Stoke - £275,000 Nacer Barazite – Arsenal to Watford – Season-Long Loan Zoltan Harsanyi – Bolton Wanderers to Morecambe – Season-Long Loan Tom Heaton – Manchester United to MK Dons – Season-Long Loan Marc Wilson – Portsmouth to Southampton – Season-Long Loan BEST OF THE REST Former Oasis front man and Manchester City fan Liam Gallacher spoke today about the signing of Maxi Rodriguez. “He’s Argentinean,” he said before smiling, “We don’t like them much. But at least he isn’t German.” Shame that isn’t it, Uwe? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted January 17, 2010 Author Share Posted January 17, 2010 7th July – 14th July 2009 - Coca-Cola Championship DINO’S WALKING ON SUNSHINE Story of the Week Former England international goalkeeper Ian Walker today made his return to football, joining Coca-Cola Championship side Doncaster Rovers on a two-year deal. Walker, now 37, signed the £3,500 a week contract in the middle of the week. The 6’2 keeper, with four England caps to his name, joins Donny on the back of a four-year stint with Bolton Wanderers. The less said the better about those four years, Walker making not a single league appearance for the Greater Manchester side. “My time with Bolton was not the best of my career,” said the Watford-born veteran, “I made some appearances, but nowhere enough for me to be able to have kept my chances up of playing again for England. Gary [Megson] offered me a new deal with Bolton, but I had to say no for my own interests. I really enjoyed playing there, but had to leave to lengthen my career. Jussi Jaaskelainen was just impossible to displace!” Walker began his career with Tottenham Hotspur, a place where he is held in high regard after making over 300 appearances. He also had a successful stint with Leicester City, before his move to Bolton. New Doncaster boss Dino Maamria spoke of his delight at having secured such a veteran player. “Ian is an excellent coup for us here at Donny. We have a very good set of players, but we still need to bolster our depth. Ian and Neil [sullivan] will make it an interesting competition for the number one jersey.” “We still need to do some shopping,” added the Tunisian, “But I am extremely confident in the quality of the squad that I have inherited here. Hopefully a couple of extra players will give us enough depth to make a challenge at the top of the table.” BIG TRANSFER ROUNDUP Not a very big start to the transfer window, but two signings captured the imagination of fans in the Championship. Notts County villain Sol Campbell completed a move to Reading on a free transfer, the former Arsenal and Tottenham man securing a £12,500 a week deal with the Berkshire club. On the theme of Arsenal and Tottenham, as reported in the Premiership Weekly, two youngsters make the journey to Watford on season-long loans. Dutchman Nacer Barazite and Frenchman Dorian Dervite make their moves in the aim of establishing themselves for the future. Both are regarded as talented youngsters. One other transfer of note is the return to England of Neil McCann, now 34. The Scottish international joins Coventry on the back of a short stint with Falkirk. Having made a name for himself with Rangers and Hearts, McCann now seems to be winding his career down, Coventry most likely the biggest name on his winding down list. OTHER TRANSFERS Jonathan Grounds – Middlesbrough to Huddersfield – Season-Long Loan Lee Brown – Q.P.R. to St Neots – Season-Long Loan James Comley – Crystal Palace to Oxford United – Season-Long Loan BEST OF THE REST Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan told reporters that he is looking to relinquish control of the Selhurst Park outfit, something that has been seen as a long time coming. Jordan, a serial manager sacker said, “I think it’s time that I let someone else take the reign. I think I’ve been an excellent chairman, and have enjoyed my time being so.” At this point, it’s unknown whether he either wants to sell the side to a completely new owner, or sell his shares to a shareholder. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Satio Posted January 18, 2010 Share Posted January 18, 2010 nice set up, think this could be really interesting both to read and to see how things pan out. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted January 18, 2010 Author Share Posted January 18, 2010 Thanks Satio. Should be fun indeed. ***** 7th July – 14th July 2009 – Coca-Cola League One LAPPIN IT UP ON BRIGHTON PIER Story of the Week Making the move from any side to another in the same league is a big one, but it wasn’t this week for Simon Lappin. The former St Mirren player yesterday completed a move from Norwich City to fellow League side Brighton & Hove Albion for the princely sum of £100,000. The midfielder, who can also play left back, spoke of his desire to leave his former club Norwich. “When I was first bought by Norwich and brought to England, I was really excited. Norwich is a fairly big club, and I thought it was my big chance. St Mirren had been excellent to me, and now on hindsight, I do wish the move had never materialised. Opportunities were few and far between and they even loaned me to Motherwell season before last. And last season making only five appearances was not just annoying but really disappointing. At that point I knew I had to leave for somewhere new.” Lappin is former Arsenal youth coach and the new Brighton Manager Steve Gattings first signing, and he made sure his happiness was known at bringing Lappin to the Withdean. “Simon is an excellent player whose talents were certainly being wasted in Norwich. The guy is only twenty six, has previous youth international experience with Scotland, and for us will be an excellent acquisition. This season could be quite tough on us, so to bring experienced and decent players in to help us stay away from the bottom half is what we want to do.” Brighton are predicted to finish in the lower half of the Coca-Cola League One this season, and Gatting stated from the beginning that bolstering the squad was instrumental in making sure they do better, and hopefully don’t get pushed into a relegation mire. More new signings are expected to follow, and Lappin should set the wheels in motion. “As soon as Brighton and Steve came knocking, I couldn’t say no. My partner and I just were not happy in Norwich, and she even moved back to Paisley after I went on loan to Motherwell!” Lappin has signed a £1,500 a week deal to remain with Brighton until 2011. TRANSFER ROUNDUP Tranmere captured the imagination of their fans this week with the surprise signing of former CSKA Sofia winger Ze Rui. The Cape Verde born Rui has been without a club since leaving the Bulgarian outfit in 2008, and despite being only 26, makes Tranmere his 7th club since starting his career in 2001. Colchester also surprised their fans with the signing of attacking midfielder Rohan Ricketts. The former Spurs man had previously spent two years with Toronto FC in the MLS, but cited a return to family and friends in England as a reason for his return. Colchester wasted no time in snapping him up, tying him up for two years on £3,500 a week. On the south coast Marc Wilson has braved the icy relationship between Pompey and Southampton fans by making the move across. The Pompey man has joined Southampton on a season-long loan, manager Alan Shearer caring little for the icy feeling and snapping the talented defender up. “We need strong players to help us get back to the Championship,” he said. OTHER TRANSFERS Peter Gilbert – Unattached to Hartlepool United – Free transfer Jack Clark – Charlton Athletic to St Neots – Season-Long Loan Steve Cook – Brighton Bognor Regis – Season-Long Loan Tom Heaton – Manchester United to MK Dons – Season-Long Loan Jonathan Grounds – Middlesbrough to Huddersfield – Season-Long Loan BEST OF THE REST Former Ajax winger Kevin Bobson went on trial this week to Charlton Athletic, but shocked no-one when he said, “Is it wrong of me to not even know where Charlton is?” Not really, Kevin. It's not like it's part of the capital city area, is it? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
stoehrst Posted January 18, 2010 Share Posted January 18, 2010 Gav, I can't believe you didn't give us Shearer. Beardsley is a legend, sure, but Shearer is the biggest. Still love the concept, though Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted January 18, 2010 Author Share Posted January 18, 2010 It was just too cliche, Steve ***** 7th July – 14th July 2009 – Coca-Cola League Two IVAN: FROM SERBIA WITH LOVE Story of the Week One Serbian in Notts County is a rarity; but the town now has two. New Notts County manager Radojko Avramovic use to play for the Nottinghamshire outfit, but now finds himself in the hotseat and bringing in a Serbian of his own. Ivan Djurdevic joins the club on a one year deal, moving from Polish outfit Lech Poznan for a reported £55,000. The left sider joins the club on the back of their recent takeover, along with the appointment of Sven Goran Eriksson as Director of Football. But the decision to move to Nottingham was influenced by the manager himself. “I spoke to Radojko before I spoke to the chairman,” Ivan told us, “And he assured me of what it was like to be at the club, having been there himself many years ago. As soon as he made me feel better about the situation, I didn’t want to turn away the opportunity of playing in England.” The best phase of Ivan’s career came during his stay in Portugal with Farense. “They gave me the frame of mind to improve my game, which led to me moving to Guimaraes. This is the final chapter of my career, and I’m looking forward to working under Radojko and Sven.” Ivan’s one year deal will see him earn £2,600 a week, £1,400 more than manager Radojko. But the Serbian manager will be splitting his time up this season, as he refused to remove himself from his international job with Singapore. “I took the job with Notts County knowing I would still be manager of Singapore. I’m enjoying my time there, but couldn’t resist returning to Notts County in the role of manager.” It remains to be seen whether Radojko can juggle the travelling with Singapore and managing in League Two. Time will only tell. Fans have already backed their new manager, and their new signing. Sadly his nickname when he fails to perform will inevitably be Ivan The Terrible. TRANSFER ROUNDUP It’s been a busy week for League Two clubs, being the busiest of all the leagues. The biggest transfer occurred for Grimsby, as they snapped up Team Wellington’s Scottish winger Bryan Little on a free bosman. The winger signs a two-year deal worth £850 a week. Despite being Scottish born, he has spent his entire career in New Zealand, with a very short stint in the USA. Lincoln caught the attention of their fans with the unexpected arrival of former Chelsea youth man Alexis Nikolas. The Cypriot hasn’t made a name for himself as of yet, a short stint with Brighton being his only highlight. He has been unattached since leaving St Albans. Morecambe however didn’t surprise their fans as they finally captured the man they chased all week. Bolton were reluctant to let Zoltan Harsanyi to go out on loan, but eventually accepted when Jim Harvey made an improved bid to the Premiership side. The 6’4 Slovakian spoke of his excitement at playing for Morecambe, “I knew they had been chasing me for awhile, and I’m glad a deal was reached. I can’t wait to knuckle down and hopefully make a name for myself.” OTHER TRANSFERS Alan Lowing – Rangers to Burton - £10,000 Steve Hollis – Unattached to Barnet – Free Sofiane Zaaboub – Unattached to Cheltenham – Free Brian Gilmour – Unattached to Macclesfield - Free Alan Reid – Unattached to Lincoln – Free Izzy Iriekpen – Unattached to Bury – Free Kirk Hilton – Unattached to Shrewsbury – Free Bevan Burey – Accrington to New Mills – Season-Long Loan Nick Liversedge – Darlington to Rushall – Season-Long Loan BEST OF THE REST AFC Bournemouth were forced to take a global transfer embargo three days ago, one that will take effect until the end of October. “We’re shocked about this,” said chairman Eddie Mitchell. Manager Eddie Howe said, “We were close to bringing in a striker that we so desperately needed. This is a massive blow.” Well he won’t be coming now, Eddie. And we mean Howe. Not the other. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saxonaitor Posted January 19, 2010 Share Posted January 19, 2010 Saw this picked up again, moved but I'm still a keen follower. Lappin never done anything for us anyway Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted January 23, 2010 Author Share Posted January 23, 2010 Thanks Sax, keep reading on. It's a work in progress so hope it's fun to read! ***** 14th July – 21st July 2009 - Premiership PARKER AND VUCINIC JOIN ROSLER’S REVOLUTION Story of the Week The blue half of Manchester knew that the new season would bring a whole host of changes to the squad, and with the money they have, that’s already apparent. With last week’s arrival of Maxi Rodriguez many believed the floodgates would open on the wallets of the City owners, and they weren’t wrong. Uwe Rosler must be jumping for joy at his budget, reported to be over £100million. This week saw the arrival of West Ham central midfielder Scott Parker and Roma’s versatile forward Mirko Vucinic. The arrival of these players signifies the beginning of this massive new era, an era that didn’t start with Robinho last January, as predicted. The two newbies together cost just over £31million, with Vucinic being the more expensive of the couple. Parker moves on the back of two years in London with West Ham United, but injury blighted his first season and limited him to 17 appearances. Scott was thoroughly enthralled at earning a move to Man City, “I can’t believe it to be honest. Man City have an excellent future ahead of them, and I can’t wait to get stuck in. I’ve always wanted to play alongside Gareth Barry, Shaun Wright-Phillips and I’m happy at being reunited with Shay Given. Uwe told me what he expected of the side he hopes to build, and I agreed with him wholeheartedly. I hope I can make a name for myself here and build up a rapport.” Parker makes Man City his sixth English club in his career after spells with Charlton, Chelsea, Newcastle, West Ham and Norwich. The spell with Charlton was his most successful, but he did become club captain with Newcastle. At Man City he will be earning £55,000 a week until Mirko is a different matter. The Montenegrin striker struck up an excellent rapport with Roma fans, his previous club, despite not being the most prolific of Serie A strikers. The former Lecce man told us, “I can’t believe I have sealed a move to Man City, of all English clubs. They have an excellent plan in line for the future, and to be part of that set up is something special. I know I have the likes of Adebayor, Tevez and Bellamy to displace and it’s a challenge I’m going to relish.” So not Robinho or Santa Cruz then? German boss Uwe Rosler certainly has his strikeforce sorted now, but as mentioned last week, he seriously needs to bolster his defence. Mirko will be at the Mancunian club until 2014, earning £65,000 a week. TRANSFER ROUNDUP Nothing really major occurred this week barring the two huge Man City signings. The biggest signing came from Stoke, Sammy McIlroy acquiring the services of Boca Juniors’ experienced full back Hugo Ibarra. Ibarra, 35, has spent three seasons in Europe before, with Espanyol, Porto and Monaco, but always ended up back in his home country. The fee being bandied around is £1.1million, something were not inclined to disagree with. Hull completed their first signing of the window bringing in Watford full back Jon Harley for a pittance at £180,000. Harley had Premiership experience with Fulham after his high profile £3.5million move from Chelsea in 2001, but he failed to make the grade. Having hung around in the Championship for long enough, he makes the move back up, but at 29, his time must surely be running out to make an impression there. Stoke and Huddersfield both made moves to sign up youngsters, albeit on different deals. Everton’s Jose Baxter moves on loan to Yorkshire outfit Huddersfield Town on a season-long loan. The Everton striker seemingly wants to gain experience before making his push for an Everton starting spot next season. Stoke signed Mads Stokkelien from Norwegian side Start. The 19-year old signs a four-year deal, though many believe this is Stokes attempt at preparing for life back in the Championship next season. OTHER TRANSFERS Joe Anderson – Fulham to Farnborough – Season-Long Loan David Jensen – FC Nordsjaellend to Aston Villa - £8,000 BEST OF THE REST Arsenal manager Dennis Bergkamp already has the fans on his side, as if he didn’t anyway. His attempt to bring Daniele De Rossi to the club has gone down well with them. “Daniele is an excellent player, and one that would make an excellent midfield pairing with Cesc.” It’s a shame that Roma have slapped a £20million price tag on his head. Ranieri said, “Twenty million. Take him or leave him.” Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
SWalton Posted January 23, 2010 Share Posted January 23, 2010 Great idea Gav, ambitious and time consuming to say the least but it looks like it will yield great results. KUTGW. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HorusFM Posted February 1, 2010 Author Share Posted February 1, 2010 Worth it SWalton =] ***** 14th July – 21st July 2009 - Championship BOBBING AROUND IN LONDON Story of the Week Charlton Athletic were taught a lesson on Sunday as they lost out on what would have been a major signing. They were ever so close to capturing winger Kevin Bobson on a free transfer until a last minute interruption in the form of Watford. Bobson, 28, was widely expected to sign with the Greenwich based club after spending a week on trial there. Charlton manager Richard Rufus spoke to us regarding the deal before it went through, “We are confident or securing Kevin on a two-year deal. We spoke with his agent and they both seemed happy with the terms we set out. Kevin would fit right in to what we have planned for this season.” But Rufus was to be let down just two days after his comment, as Watford chairman Jimmy Russo and manager Luther Blissett stole in with a last minute offer. Watford, a league higher than Charlton, offered the same deal to Bobson, and it was seemingly obvious which way his choice would go. Blissett, a Watford hero of the highest calibre, had expressed his desire to bring a left sider into the club, but it wasn’t known that Bobson was on Watford’s radar until the Charlton piece was published. “We are extremely happy at snapping up Kevin. He has an excellent past having played many games in the Eredivisie for NAC Breda and Willem II,” Blissett told us, “And we just knew that we had to try and pick him up. We regret having to sneak him from under the noses of Charlton, but all is fair in love and war.” Rufus refused to comment on the whole situation, but it is claimed that he is already seeking an alternative. One must look at Charlton’s situation however, and see that they are in some dire trouble. They have mounting debts, and it is not really a surprise that Bobson chose to join a side a league higher, less in trouble and less of a liability. Bobson said, “I opted to join Watford as Luther promised me a place in his side, and considering that they are a league higher, it really was a no brainer. I want to play at the highest level I can and right now, that is with Watford.” Bobson will remain with The Hornets for two years, earning £4,800 a week for his efforts. He was unattached after a brief spell with Salzburg that saw him make no appearance for the Austrian side. TRANSFER ROUNDUP As the Championship begins to make major recruitment drives, the week was quiet once more. Derby were the busiest side this week acquiring two players and letting one go. Joining The Rams are unattached pair Addison and David Castedo. Addison, a forward, was unattached following a spell with Hercules in Spain. He wasn’t expected to earn a permit, but an oversight was found in that he had Spanish nationality, and Derby were ecstatic to have gotten him. Castedo, 35, is a left back and signs from Levante, but his age must signal him out as only a short term investment. Reading were the most imaginative side this week and wowed their fans with the surprise signing of former PSV and Feyenoord man Theo Lucius. Lucius was widely expected to sign a deal with Heerenveen, but Reading snapped him up in a surprise coup. Lucius, 32, can play at right back, defensive midfield and central midfield and signs a deal for two years. OTHER TRANSFERS Danny Mitchley – Blackpool to Barrow – Season-Long Loan Jacob Walcott – Reading to Farnborough Town – Season-Long Loan Alex Forde – Derby to Borrowash – Season-Long Loan Jack Randall – Crystal Palace to Oxford City – Season-Long Loan Mitchell Bryant – Reading to Basingstoke – Season-Long Loan BEST OF THE REST Newcastle United were ridiculed by fans last night as they fell to an awful pre-season defeat at the hands of East Stirling. The Scottish Division Three side thumped the Championship team 3-1, something that won’t bode well with manager Beardsley. “We were truly awful and if I am honest, it doesn’t sit well for the season to come. I know it’s only a friendly, but we need to perform and we didn’t.” Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
WolvesNicky Posted February 3, 2010 Share Posted February 3, 2010 This has been a good read, keep it up! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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