Week 11

Football Academy · Cult Status

Week 11

Football Academy · Cult Status

Breaking News

Barcelona have issued a notice to all Spanish media centres that they will be issuing a brief statement in the next hour. Barcelona chairman Joan Laporta will release a short press statement in regard to the clubs short term future and the management of the team. No details are known yet but this news has sparked reports linking Mark Rollings to a dramatic move to replace Adam Goble, with Barcelona already 6 points off the top 2 in Spain.

Football Academy · Cult Status

Laporta press statement

The gathered media persons were eager to hear the announcement which Barcelona president Juan Laporta had planned for this afternoon.

"For too long we have had to fight for the scraps of European qualification in Spain. Barcelona fans want to be on top and victorious again. The board believe we have a manager in Adam Goble who can take us there so all that is missing is money for him to make it happen. Over the next week we will address the situation and confirm a new transfer budget with the view to remove Sevilla and Real Madrid from the picture in Spanish football. We want players to aspire to join Barcelona."

richj363 · Cult Status

TOTTENHAM PRESS CONFERANCE

What do you think of reports the board are unhappy ?

Richard Jefferies. Well when i came here the team were rock bottom of this league with 10M to spend and virtually no defensive quality. Now we are third from bottom still have 7.0M to spend and a much younger much stronger squad of players. I kept them up last year and i will again this year.

So do you think the critisism is unfair?

RJ To be honest yes, i have had no funds given to me since the original kitty when i came here and you just cannot compete in this league without some substancial backing from your board. We have shown this year what a good team we are and apart from a poor performance against Villa we have done well, If you look at the facts and figures for todays game we had the best of it and probably should of won, but we didn't and that has been our problem this year.

Liam Riste the Villa manager has again made comments today, what do you think of those ?

RJ Liam is a clever lad and im sure he thinks that if he keeps saying that i am under pressure enough times then someone will believe him, I just have to concentrate on getting this club into a stronger position and not get involved with petty arguments with other managers. We were in the bottom three with 3 games to go last year and stayed up comfortably so lets see where we are after 22 games.

You have Chelsea this week so what are your thoughts ?

RJ Well they are one of the top 2 teams in this league so it will be incredibly hard but we beat United last week so just have to be positive and keep working hard like we have. With a bit of luck we might get some youth talent appearing at half season and lets hope the chairman might find a few quid to give me a chance to take this club forward. I know i am the right man for the job but just need some time some funds and some luck. Cheers and good night.

Thanks Rich

Simon · Cult Status

Valladolid manager responds to Barcelona statement

Valladolid manager Simon Jenkins has come forward today to give his opinion on Barcelona's ambitious statement earlier today:

'While it is obvious that chairmen will want their club to achieve the best they can, it is a sorry sight when people think they can throw money at a club and buy success. Do they think they can mimic Genoa's success? Adam Goble is a very talented manager and it seems almost insulting to his talent to just give him money (not to say that Chris @ Genoa isn't, mind you!)

'There are small clubs who have got a foot-hold in this league such as Espanyol and myself at Valladolid while Levante seem determined to follow the same path too. All of us have worked hard to get where we are are now and while last season I saw a new chairman take over here and invest a small amount, I would be angry if someone gave me vast amount of money in order to achieve instantly. I like to build my team up gradually using youth with a touch of experience in key places. Too much interference is a bad thing.

Barcelona can plan all they want to overtake the top two at the moment, but I feel Real Madrid in particular have had their day and Barcelona will need to overcome stronger opposition in the next few seasons than they will do in the current one.'

Spartikus47 · Cult Status

Rollings issues statement on future

Amid continued speculation surrounding his future Sampdoria boss Mark Rollings spoke briefly to gathered press outside the clubs countryside trainig resort in the Genoa hills.

"Firstly myself or the club have had absolutely no contact from any clubs regarding my services. Mr Garrone is a supen chairman and knows I respect his regime. However, I feel the recent results against Genoa and Fiorentina have suggested a fresh approach could benefit this team. I have built a side capable of beating anyone in his division but I fear for its flexibility and longevity. Likewise I feel that I could benefit from a fresh surrounding and somewhere where I can continue my managerial development."

The outspoken boss has been linked to a variety of jobs around Europe since hinting at an exit from the blucheriati includig the vacancies at Villareal and Manchester City while Spanish media even briefly speculated about Rollings replacing Adam Goble at Barcelona. Reacting to the speculation Rollings added:

"While it is flattering to be mentioned in the same bracket as a club like Barcelona I think that link was always a touch fantastical. Mr Laporta would be foolish to get rid of a manager of Adam's quality and it looks like he knows that. Manchester City would be a fantastic opportunity to work with an ambitious chairman who is looking to break into the big time. Mr Shinawatra is a football fan and wants to be the best. Manchester City are a famous football name with some of the best fans In England, and if they were interested in talking to me, and as long as they could agree something with Sampdoria I would be glad to do so! I am not sure what the situation is with Stuart Price, who in my opinion is one of the finest managers in Europe but its extremely flattering to be mentioned."

Stopping short of a come and get me plee Rollings clearly wanted to make it known of his admiration for both club and chairman. .

Goblets · Cult Status

Barca Press Conference

Adam Goble met the Spanish Press today to discuss recent events at the Camp Nou -

Press - Adam, defeat again to Seville...although close...thats no victories against them or Real in your time here!

AG - I'm well aware of that, thanks. I changed tactics and put out the strongest team available to me, unfortunately we weren't good enough. At 2-0 up I believed we had the momentum to push on and beat them but we relaxed and paid the price. My players are aware of my discontent and I'm hoping this will hit home to them. I'm not a bawler and I dont give out the "hairdryer" treatment but this squad need to start performing against our closest rivals and deliver.

Press - Juan Laporta has come out and said that money will be available to you...how do plan to use this?

AG - I've never been blessed with having transfer funds available to me at either Blackburn or Roma, so it will be a headache...a good one though! I beleive we need another Centre Midfielder and a top class forward, so they will be top of my list, finding one will be a different matter though.

I'd like to thank the massive fan base for letting me continue my work here with the addition of some funds, and also to the President and the board for backing me. I am committed to turning Barca into the World Beaters that the fans command.

Press - So you beleive that money can transform your fortunes?!

AG - As I said, I've never had it but have been successful without it. Hopefully with funds I can get some players in to complete the jigsaw. I have invested in the team personally and have a scout in Brazil, whats the use in having him out there if I cant afford to purchase the talent he finds? I want to be the top team in Europe, money can only help.

Press - Mark Rollings was linked to your position, do you feel undermined by these rumours?

AG - These suggestions were un-founded and as you so rightly say, rumours. Mark is a friend of mine and gave me a call to clarify that these whispers we not from his camp. Hes doing a very good job at Sampdoria, and although ambitious, I beleive he will finish what he has started in Italy.

Press - Your close friend Chris Hanton left and then returned within a short space of time, whats your take on this?

AG - Chris and I are related and I know his reasons for leaving. I backed him 100% with his decision and I'm delighted he has taken a break, cleared his mind and ended up in Italy! Parma have a decent squad and within a couple of seasons I believe they will have one to propel them into Europe.

Press - Robbie Keane, someone who has consistently proved his worth is rumoured to be leaving...and truth in this?

AG - Robbie is a player I have the upmost respect for and I'm happy to clarify the position. We were contacted by an Itallian club with regards his availability and were propsed a deal. This deal was accepted but not confimed by the other party. We are now in limbo as the proposing manager seems to have eloped! I also hear that he has been chasing other players apart from Robbie. I have left him messages and hope to hear back from him shorty so Robiie can clear his mind and continue doing what he does best...score goals.

Press - Adam, thanks for your time, I'm sure we'll hear more from you soon.

With that Mr Goble left the huge press room here at the Nou Camp and was runmoured to be flying to England before the European Cup match to scout some potential players in London.

Stu · Cult Status

Citizens Need Investment

You threw away a two goal lead against Wigan. How disappointed are you?
"I thought we were lucky to be two goals ahead so quickly we must have caught Wigan sleeping. We all knew their quality and they were going to come back at us. I was pleased we showed the teamwork to fight hard for a point. I would have taken a point at the start of the game"

Darcy Blake found it hard to cope with Stephen Jordan didn't he?
Darcy is still learning his trade and Stephen had a very good game setting up both their goals. The plan for Cardiff was all about creating a good future so I can't then blame the young players who I'm trying to teach to swim"

Can you hold on to a play off place?
"We are sixth right now. You only have to look at all the teams above us to see the quality of the company we find ourselves with. All the teams above us are big enough to fit in to the premier league so results like Fridays are encouraging. We are above teams like Sheffield Wednesday who have had big money invested so I think we can be proud of our season so far. The players have forgotten the bad experiences the last time they were here"

Have Man City approached you yet?
"No I spoke to Peter Ridsdale this morning and he has had no contact with anybody from Manchester"

Did you read the comments from Mark Rollings about moving there?
"Yes I did. Man City are a big club so lots of managers would want a chance to manage there. I hope they can get somebody who can build on what Chris Hanton has done there. Mark has made a lot of changes at Sampdoria but they have changed from a very young team to an old group of players. Some teams deserve more than this"

Man City have some old players already don't they?
"Chris signed some very good players who were older but I think at the time a few very good players around people like Hart was the right thing to do. If Man City want to improve they will need more money to find youth that can compliment the star names. I know if I found myself there tomorrow I would need more money to find the best young players to help send Man City forwards"

Thanks Stuart

Stu - Cardiff

Football Academy · Cult Status

Lacklustre Italians

Another disappointing night for Italian clubs in Europe has surely added credence to the argument of a split in European competitions for two tiers of ability teams. Juventus are the only team to progress to the Quarter Finals this year despite a 6-0 drubbing in their last group game having fielded a reserve side.

Weak sides also saw AC Milan lose 5-0 to Real Madrid, Sampdoria lose 4-0 to Sevilla, and Roma lose 2-1 to an out of form Arsenal team.

Italian officials are concerned with the lack of commitment shown by the Italian sides in Europe, on the most part treating it as a drain on resources and as such fielding reserve sides who take heavy losses. One official spoke out tonight again. "The results keep coming and it brings shame on Italian football. People consider England and Spain to be leagues ahead of Italian teams and this is why. Two of the four teams have not taken the competition seriously once this season and three have all gone out last in their groups. I don't know what these managers think they are doing. This is the top competition in European football and the perfect place to show your credentials. I wouldn't employ these managers to clean my bathroom let alone run a football club with this attitude!"

-- Edited by Football Academy on Monday 20th of July 2009 10:12:50 PM

Football Academy · Cult Status

Breaking News

Fulham owner Daniel Morrison has admitted a club has made an approach for manager Terry Manifold. Morrison bought the club as they left administration earlier this year and assured the manager that he had a job for life for showing commitment and staying there through the dark times. However the club have a bank loan looming over them and reports suggest the chairman is expecting the manager to sell players to help clear that this season.

"We have been approached by another club and are discussing the matter but I feel we would be wrong to stand in his way of a move if it suited everyone."

This response is likely a result of the poor form Fulham have shown in League One, a Premiership club just a few seasons ago they now sit near the bottom of the lowest English league. Even with the debts and sale of key players, the fans were expecting a more accomplished side than has been present in most of the league games this season. This approach could give the board a way to remove Manifold without going back on their backing of him just a few months ago.

Sinky2707 · Cult Status

Ascoli 2-0 Empoli

Sinclair relieved with first win in seven in the league

Mr Sinclair are you pleased with your sides performance today?

Delighted we haven't put in a performance like that since the beginning of the season it was a solid, assured performance that we needed after 6 games without a win the fans needed it the players needed it to believe in themselves again and I needed otherwise I would have been in trouble

How do you feel to be back in the play-off zone again?

Relieved to be back in there even though we haven't been doing well recently this season is very tight between the teams in and around the play-offs and whilst thats the chairmen's aims i was hoping we would have more of a shot at automatic promotion but at this moment in time im interested in keeping in the play-off zone and picking up some more wins i thought we would have had more than three so far

Were you impressed by anyone in particular from your team today?

The midfield. they have got a lot of stick from me this season because they haven't been performing well enough but it was down to them today we got the goals and beat Empoli quite comfortably in the end. Ruirk Gislason got his first goal for the club followed by Alessandro Budel and performances like that will keep them in the side and hopefully it'll rub on Fabian Delph and Mauro Pucello who haven't performed as well as i know they can

Any more news on the transfer front?

we have enquired about a few people but that's about it we do have Rosicky coming back after the half way point of the season his experience and quality are giving other teams a headache which is good and we will also be loaning a quality attacking midfielder from a big Italian club and he could really help us make our aim of promotion reality

Bluebird99 · Cult Status

Crystal Palace V Nottm Forest - Pre match press conference with Steve Davies-Evans

Media - Steve, You were clearly disappointed with your draw against Charlton last week, things don't get much easier this week with a trip to Selhurst Park, how confident you can go there and get a win?

SDE - Well we're always confident we can get a positive result but we are under no illusions, we are going to a team that is the most inform over the past 5 games. They have rocketed up the table in recent weeks and we know that we have to be at our best if we are toget something from this game.

Media - We have to ask you about the managers position at Blackburn Rovers that has recently become vacant. It wasn't long ago that you were being tipped for that job and now that they [Blackburn] are in the hunt for a manager, would you be willing to throw your hat in the ring?

SDE - It's a hard one for me to comment on to be honest. As many people know, I am a Blackburn fan and ofcourse, it would be my dream to manage them one day but I am employed by Nottm Forest and until I am told otherwise, I am dedicated to completing my job here. If Blackburn Rovers are seriously considering me for the position, they will have to speak to my chairman and until that call comes, I am more than happy continuing in my current role.

Media - We have heard the news that Terry Manifold has today handed in his resignation to the Fulham board. What are your views on this?

SDE - I have to say that I'm gutted to see Terry hand in his resignation. I totally understand his reasoning behind it but it's a sad day when managers of Terry's caliber feel that they are being pushed out fo a club. I think that Fulhams problems have been very public but in this day and age, loyalty is very rare and to be fair to Terry, he stuck with the club when he could have easily bailed out so it's a shame that he hasn't been shown the same sort of commitment. I hope to see him go onto bigger and better things as he's more than capeable.

-- Edited by Bluebird99 on Tuesday 21st of July 2009 04:56:36 PM

Luke_C · Cult Status

AC Milan manager Luke Coakley spoke to Milan.tv after another frustrating night in Europe

Luke another trashing in Europe (5-0), surely no positives can be taken from such a game?

Its hard to take positives from such a game but my hope is the players can gain experience from this game and it will move us forward. We lacked composure on the ball and quality throughout against a very strong Real Madrid team that I can only congratulate. Im devastated how this European campaign has turned out but it just drives me on to qualify for next season and prove any doubters wrong.

So you believe you can come back stronger in Europe next season?

Well first of all we need to qualify for Europe again and that is of paramount importance for us. I have no doubt this squad will be stronger next season though so we will give our all once again in Europe should we qualify.

Much has been made about Italian clubs fielding youth or reserve sides in Europe what is your thought on that?

Well we at Milan took the competition very seriously and played our strongest team in both the first games however sadly our team was not good enough this time round but there was no lack of respect for the competition. In the last game we did change the team around as any sane manager would in my position but it was by no means a reserve team. A win would have took us out of Europe as did a loss but we now have some younger players with a bit more experience and some of the more experienced pro's are feeling a little fresher.

Italian officials have again spoke out against the Italian clubs form in Europe?

Yes they seem to have a lot to say don't they, although no one is ever willing to put a name to it from the Italian FA. To be honest I find these comments coming out discouraging, arrogant, unhelpful and naive. They seem to live in a little bubble in dreamland. The Italian league is in need of investment throughout to bring it back to the top of the European pyramid table. The fact the Italian FA employee people to clean there own bathroom shows how far out of touch they are to the real world (laughs Coakley). The league is moving on and I think its time some of the old heads on the Italian board did the same so the league can progress.

They say people believe that the Italian League is behind the Spanish and English league because of the European form, is this something you agree with?

I wouldn't say form I would say quality is the bigger issue here, I would say its almost fact they are ahead of us at the moment. The managers in Italy are working very hard to turn things and to rejuvenated Italian football but its hard when you have so called leaders at the Italian FA having a go at managers and showing no encouragement at all.

Football Academy · Cult Status

Mid Season Preview

The English, Spanish and Italian media has grouped together to bring you a sneak preview of the mid way point of this season. As usual a season can hinge on the events of this mid season point. Some chairmen will invest, some will add stipulations for their managers to consider. New youth is produced across Europe and a new Scouting Window is just around the corner. So with half a week to go, here are the rumours and sneak previews of the events about to unfold.

Rumour - John Williams is in talks with Nottingham Forest about appointing Steve Davies Evans as the new Rovers manager.

Rumour - However Blackburn could be about to snub Steve Davies Evans in favour of a more experienced manager at the top level.

Rumour - Messina want to sign ex-Fulham manager Terry Manifold.

Likely - Atalanta and Norwich are both vying for the signature of recently departed Fulham manager Terry Manifold.

Rumour - Sulaiman Al-Fahim (Manchester City) is prepared to back his new manager with up to £30 million investment to achieve the long term goals set down.

Rumour - Manchester City have targeted the English Premiership title in 2 seasons time.

Rumour - Stuart Price and Mark Rollings will both be called to interview for the Manchester City vacancy after refusing to deny interest in the position in recent times.

Likely - Joan Laporta will back Adam Goble with in the region of £40 million to ensure the club establish themselves as a European giant.

Likely - Brescia manager Huw Evans has been spotted in the UK this week arranging a mid season move out of Serie B.

Rumour - Apparently the hot property in European football, Huw Evans has also been named in the frame for the Villarreal position.

Rumour - However speculation from recent weeks linking Mark Rollings to the job has refused to die down.

Rumour - Mark Rollings is set to miss out on Manchester City and Villarreal after refusing to commit a preference towards either of the vacancies.

Rumour - Arsenal are considering terminating the contract of manager Simon Newcombe for disappointing first half a season in the league.

Likely - One of the La Liga clubs is about to offer professional contracts to 2 of their youth team, with one being a highly anticipated 16 year old wonderkid.

Likely - Bolton are set to offer Napoli manager Johndaniel Jaques a chance to manage back in the English leagues.

Likely - Sevilla and Espanyol are set to fight it out for under fire Simon Newcombe in order to capture the experienced manager.

Ashley-ccfc16' · Cult Status

This afternoon it was reported that Ashley Davies older brother would be leaving management for good, This sparked a lot of criticism amongst other managers.

This is what he had to say.

Well, I know as much as you do, Some reports from Spain are very intriguing. This may sound harsh but Im not happy with his attitude towards management, Real Betis are a great club and took a very big risk having him there now hes throwing all this back in there face, I really hope this rumour becomes true as Im fed up of his behaviour

That was a hefty statement there by Mr. Davies followed by a quick exit of scene.

-- Edited by Ashley-ccfc16' on Tuesday 21st of July 2009 08:06:23 PM

Bluebird99 · Cult Status

Blackburn appoint Davies-Evans!

Blackburn Rovers have today announced the appointment of former Nottingham Forest boss Steve Davies-Evans as the clubs new manager . Davies-Evans who is a life-long Blackburn Rovers fan is said to be delighted with the move North and will take over with immediate affect. The club wasted no time in arranging a press conference to parade Davies-Evans where the Welshman spoke of his delight at signing on at Ewood Park and also took messages from the awaiting media.

In his opening statement, Davies-Evans said the following........

"Firstly, I'd like to say how delighted I am to become the new manager of Blackburn Rovers. As many know, I am a huge Blackburn fan and have always followeed them since a young lad when my father would bring me along to see the likes of Colin Hendry and Alan Shearer help guide Rovers to the Premiership title. I have continued to support Rovers from a far and have paid alot of interest to the team in recent times.

I understand what the supporters are looking for as I too share their desire to make this club great again. Although I clearly have love for the club, there is a greater challenge to had here and there is no question that his is a long term project instead of a short term fix. I have identified that squad will need some "maintanence" and I feel that my skills will allow me to help progress the squad. It's not going to be an easy season and we will have to be on our metal if we are to make sure that we are not pulled into a relegation dog fight. I will be looking for the players to show me 110% in both training and games from now on so we can all enjoy what Im sure will be a superb season. If any of you guys have questions then please feel free to ask away......."

Media - Steve, This all seems to have happened very quickly. What was the sequence of events?

SDE - Well yeah, I agree that it's been abit whirlwined but then I'd rather that so that myself and Blackburn can move forward and Nottingham Forest can go out and get a good manager to replace me. Well it's been pretty public that Blackburn were interested in me and after speaking to the Forest Chairman, I applied for this position. I was delighted to meet up with John [Wiliams - Blackburn Chairman] and sort out my arrival.

Media - It's a huge step up from League 1 to Premiership football, do you feel you have enough qualities to get along in the top flight?

SDE - Yes of course! Anybody that knows me will know that I'm always positive and I think that when you've managed in the lower leagues for so long, it moulds you as both a manager and a person so I feel that I definatley have the qualities to do the job that the chairman and fans want me to do.

Media - You have inherrited an aging squad, will you be moving quickly to sort things out?

SDE - Well I need to assess everything first. The avarage age of the squad isn't really acceptable so I will belooking to trim it where possible but I think that this is something that won't be done over night and will have to build slowly and make sure that we bring in the right players. I already have set out a game plan which I hope to execute over the coming months.

Media - You start with a game against a very good Manchester City side, will you be incharge for that game?

SDE - Yes I will be working with the assistant manager in order to pick the best team in order to get a positive result from the game. We are under no illusions, this will be a tough game and we will have to be at our best but I am confident that the players will be up for this game and will want to go out and prove to me that they ready to show me what they've got.

Media - Lastly Steve, How hard was it to leave Nottingham Forest?

SDE - Ah I have to be honest, although there was a massive pull from Blackburn, they are the only club that I would have left Forest for. I loved every second of my time there and I truly hope that they go on and achieve their goal of Playoffs this season. I want to thank the Chairman and fans for giving me so much support in my time there. I would also like to pay tribute to Stuart Price at Cardiff who I had a fantastic relationship with our link up. I am hoping that me and Stuart can still do some sort of business regarding some of his players and I have already sent him a message to see if this is possible.

With that, Davies-Evans was taken from the Media suite at Ewood Park and taken to the clubs Brockhall training ground where he is to meet up with the players and oversee Mark Bowens training session.

Stu · Cult Status

City To City

Manchester City unveiled their new manager to the public this Thursday afternoon. A proud looking Stuart Price sat next to his new chairman Thaksin Shinawatra with a light blue and white striped tie on

Welcome to Manchester Stuart. Are you surprised at being offered the job?
"I had put a long plan in at Cardiff and I thought I was staying there longer than the two seasons I spent there so yes I am surprised but I have always taken jobs that interest me not always big jobs and I think this job will keep me on my toes"

What do you say to the fans you leave behind?
"I wish Cardiff luck. I know lots of fans of the team are managing other teams around the leagues so I don't expect them to stay unmanaged for very long. The fans should enjoy the rest of this season because the team is in a strong position to push on. They are safe from relegation and that was the aim. People can criticise me for moving half way through a season but our aim was to survive so my job at Cardiff for this season has been achieved in 10 weeks. There are so many bright young players in that team I believe fans can enjoy a long period of success now. I have been away from the Sanchez Pizjuan (Sevilla) for two seasons and the young players I left behind have carried on the success we were having. I wish the same for Cardiff"

Do you have any words for the manager who was your rival for this job?
"As far as I know I was the only manager approached but I think every body reading the newspapers knew Mark was interested and no body can blame him this is a huge team to manage. He has put alot of his players for sale and it would be nice to see him help develop a new generation of Sampdoria stars so I wish him a lot of luck with his job there. If he can qualify maybe we will meet on the touchline in europe"

Is Europe the ambition?
"The chairman has put money in and has promised to put more in for me. We can't match Genoa or the figures Barcelona are talking over but it is still alot of money and there will be expectations. I will challenge myself to meet these expectations. It is a high pressure job but if it wasn't I would enjoy it less. England has some of the strongest squads in football. Liverpool and Chelsea are giants and our city rivals are having a great season and look a threat again under Craig. To qualify for europe has to be aim number one but to try and get in with those three teams is my aim number two"

How much money will be given to you to spend?
"The chairman promised me some money as part of his offer if I joined. I don't want to put a figure out there because that will raise every bodys prices. I have already sent out two offers to my old team and been in discussions with them trying to haggle them down. They will be expensive but worth it I hope"

Can Cardiff players really be good enough for the aims you have?
"There are lots of good players at Cardiff and I think alot of big teams will try and buy players from them. I want to take five with me but I know I have no chance to do this. I have picked two players I think can play at this height and I have been given prices. I have to discuss dates and then deals will be agreed. Redondo has a bright future but he is stuck in Nottingham for the rest of the season and I think one of the top teams will snatch him up before I can sign him"

How has Steve moving to Blackburn affected you?
"I was disappointed when I saw he had applied. He sent me a message today saying he had been accepted and he wanted me to know first. It would have been nice to know he was leaving before I sent him six players but that is football. Blackburn was a big temptation for him and I wish him luck. Not having access to two of my top talents for the rest of the season was a reason behind my move. I lost control of them and I try to be careful picking loans to stop that happening"

Your first game is against Blackburn. What words will be said?
"I will apologise because we need the three points more than them. We have a chance to move in to third place and we can't afford to drop points to them. I will wish him luck again and tell him I think he has what it takes to stay up this season. The bigger challenge for him will be replacing the old players in that team and fighting relegation next season with a new team because I think it will be hard for him to lower the age and not compromise on the ability. He had a clear mind on what he wanted when we discussed tactics for Nottingham Forest so I don't think he will need any more words to be said"

Thanks Stuart

Stu - Man City

Ashley-ccfc16' · Cult Status

Stuart Price becoming Manchester City manager.

Luke_C · Cult Status

RE: Week 11

Simon · Cult Status

With so many clubs becoming available, speculation has arouse about a possible move for Valladolid manager Simon Jenkins. As of yet Mr. Jenkins has not released a statement but local bookies have highlighted possibilities at Cardiff, AC Milan and to replace Simon Newcombe at Arsenal.

mg1 · Cult Status

Milan wrote:

Coakley quits Milan

Former Manchester City manager Luke Coakley today quit Milan. He released this statement: -
I have loved my time in Milan however I dont believe it is fair to apply for another job while still being contracted to another. I can leave Milan knowing that I leave them in great shape compared to when I arrived. The future is very bright at the club and whoever takes over is in for a treat as this is one of the biggest clubs in world football. I thank the fans for making me feel so welcome and thank the chairman for backing me. Just to clarify I have no contact from Cardiff City and I believe they have offered the job to someone else so should they accept I wish him all the best for the future and hope they take the club I support all the way to the top. Luke Coakley

-- Edited by mg1 on Thursday 23rd of July 2009 08:21:55 PM

Luke_C · Cult Status

Coakley to stay

In a bizarre twist of events Luke Coakley has agreed to continue his role at AC Milan until the end of the season when his role will be re-evaluated.
In a bizarre day the Welshman has applied for the job at Cardiff City, Quit Milan and returned.
In a brief statement the Welshman made these comments.
After long discussions with the chairman of AC Milan we have agreed to cancel my resignation with immediate effect and continue until the end of the season when both the chairman and I will re-evaluate the situation. I have started something big at Milan and I owe it to the fans, players and chairman to complete the season and make sure the club are back in Europe and in a strong position. I also have to thank the fans who have been amazingly supportive today, I really believe we are all now pushing in the right direction and hope we can finish this season on a big high. Luke Coakley told Milan.TV

mg1 · Cult Status

Bluebird99 · Cult Status

Davies-Evans speaks highly of Price

New Blackburn Rovers boss Steve Davies-Evans has tonight spoken to media outside Blackburn's Brockhall training ground regarding a busy day that has seen manager movement and resignations withdrawls.

Media - Steve, Steve.....Can we have a few words...

SDE - Yeah make it quick boys, It's been a long day

Media - What have you made of your first day at Blackburn?

SDE - It's been hectic thats for sure. There's alot to do so I've tried to make it home asap so that I can get on with everything else that needs to be done.

Media - Have any deals been sorted yet?

SDE - Yeah we've agreed a deal to bring in a couple of players but this particular deal wont come through for a few weeks yet.

Media - What do you make of all the other activity that has gone on today?

SDE - To be honest, I havent really had time to catch up with it all. I shall be going home now to have abrew and watch Sky Sports News to catch up with it all.

Media - You must have seen that Stuart Price has left Cardiff City to join Manchester City, A team you play this weekend. What are your thoughts on that?

SDE - Well yes I have heard and I have been told about everything else that has been said. Listen, Manchester City are a fine club and they are in a position where they can demand a high profile manager and to be fair, they don't come more high profiled than Stuart Price. The guy worked wonders at Sevilla and he was in the middle of a very decent job at Cardiff City.

Media - And what of his stinging criticism regarding you and you taking this job and not informing him?

SDE - I'm not about to sit here and start slagging other managers off, especially managers with the caliber of Stuart Price. I would look foolish and would end up with egg on my face. I'm sure Stuart hasn't got that much of a problem with me or he would have replied to my message stating all this as any decent manager would but as I have not received any corrispondence from Stuart, I take it that everything is fine.

Media - You face eachother this weekend, will all this now add extra spice to the occasion?

SDE - I'm sure it will for you boys [laughs], Listen, me and Stuart are fine. I'm sure we'll meet up quickly before the game and I'm sure we'll enjoy a glass of wine after the game. He now has a big job on his hands as do I so we will have our clubs best interests at heart during the game and we will go back to as we were after the final whistle has blown. I wish Stuart all the luck in making his time at Man City a success as I'm sure it will be, And with that gentlemen...I bid you good night.

With that, Davies-Evans drives off home to reflect on what has been an eventful day in football all over Europe.

Huw · Semi-Pro Player

EVANS TAKES OVER AT CARDIFF CITY

Terry Phillips of the South Wales Echo caught up with Huw Evans outside the new Cardiff City Stadium this evening amid repors that he has taken over at City from Seria A club Brescia.

Evans released a statement;

"I am delighted to this evening announce that I have accepted the offer of managing Cardiff City. Things have moved very quickly today but I met with the Brescia board earlier this afternoon to ask for permission to speak to Cardiff City. I have had a great time at Brescia and although I had promised to guide them back to Seria A I feel that I could not turn down the opportunity of managing Cardiff. I have always supported Cardiff and as a proud Welshman I wanted to manage them in what is a new era in the new stadium. I feel that I have left Brescia in a strong position with maximum points at almost the halfway stage and really do wish them well and would be very disappointed and surprised if they did not kick on and get automatic promotion. It was very important for me to leave with the blessing of the Brescia board and believe that I have done this.

I hope to build on the great work done by Staurt Price and wish him the very best at Manchester City. I am sure the fans and players at Cardiff will reflect on the job he has done here and look back at his time here with great admiration. A sign of his good work is the fact that the Cardiff City job is such a desirable post and am genuinly flattered and honoured that I have been offered the position. My friend Luke Coakley, a manager of great pedigree and calibre, being linked to Cardiff City from the mighty AC Milan shows the strides this club has made and I wish to continue the clubs progression. I say that as as a manager and as a fan.

I will want to make my own stamp on the club and look foward to seeing the return of the loan players so I can assess what I have here and make a push towards securing a play off position. This is a very difficult league with excellent managers so I have no illusions as to the job ahead of me."

Evans left and did the "Ayotollah" to answer the demands of a group of City faithful who had assembled outside their new stadium.

spudd · Sunday League Player

Hello Spudd, Firstly welcome to the City and welcome to the Walkers stadium, can I start by asking what made you apply for the Leicester over other vacancies around at the moment. ?

Well Leicester are the only club that would take me on. (*couple of chuckles from reporters*)No really, if you look at the facilities around us their top draw, the training pitch is in great shape for a league one team and their is a huge fan base here. The foundations of the club are all here ready now we just need a team good enough to earn a place in the championship.

You have no experience in managing and your playing career was some what...unsuccessful, effectively your going into the job blind. Do you think you will add anything more that what the previous manager did ?

No...not immediately if you want me to be frank, it's going to be a steep learning curb for me. I've been thrown into the deep end. However I thrive on pressure and with passion, determination and hopefully a little bit of luck I will steer this club in the right direction. Thankfully the chairman has seen my potential and knows of my love for the game, a job like this is well suited for me.

So Transfers, any early signings that you have planned, if not what sort of players will you be looking to sign ?

Well I have my eyes on a handful of players but were on a shoestring budget at present so I wouldn't expect any names to come in before any go out. One thing that I will make categorically clear though. I will only sign good looking players and will not sign any players with long hair.

*Laughs*

No, I am actually being serious. It means a lot to me. Can you name any ugly players that play good football ?

Luke Chadwick

Precisely.

So we wont be expecting Luke Chadwick to sign anytime soon...Anyhow you've inherited a squad that are underachieving in League one at the moment. What players have impressed you through the season so far and any particular players you don't think you'll keep for long.

Ishmael Miller is a nice guy, I went on a cycling holiday with him and his girlfriend in Belgium last summer. I also watched Marek Hamsik a lot and think he is to good for us, he deserves to be playing in a better league, however this wont stop me from trying to keep him at the club.

Neil Mellor is fat and I don't like Francis Jeffers. I will be speaking both of these privately to discuss their future at the football club.

.......... Well thanks spudd for that indifferent interview, we wish you all the best for your time here and look forward to speaking to you in the future.

Tezza · Cult Status

"On the move again."

Following a unsuccessful attempt at management in English football ex-Fulham boss Terry Manifold is moving abroad.
From Friday morning Terry Manifold will take over at Atalanta F. C. "Atalanta are at the foot of the Serie A fighting to stay in" said Terry, "But I can't sit at home I need to be involved." "I have nothing to lose and a lot to prove." " The chances of securing a another reasonable English club were remote."

"I have had a look at the set up at Atalanta and I do like what I see." "Jumping out the frying pan, comes to mind, but it will be a huge challenge."
With that Terry left for the airport and two seasons of hard work.

Ashley-ccfc16' · Cult Status

Davies responds to off scene Criticism by Real Betis manager Adam Davies

Bluebird99 · Cult Status

RE: Week 11