Brian Flynn has named the Wales under-21 squad to face Malta away in a friendly on 10th August.
Goalkeepers: David Cornell (Swansea City), Jonathan Bond (Watford)
Defenders: Daniel Alfei (Swansea City), Adam Matthews (Cardiff City), Aaron Morris (Aldershot), Christian Ribeiro (Bristol City), Ashley ‘Jazz’ Richards (Swansea City), Neil Taylor (Swansea City)
Midfielders: Mark Bradley (Rotherham United), Shaun MacDonald (Swansea City), Joe Partington (AFC Bournemouth), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace), Ryan Doble (Southampton), Jake Taylor (Reading)
Forwards: Billy Bodin (Swindon Town), Elliot Chamberlain (Leicester City), Richard Peniket (Fulham), Hal Robson-Kanu (Reading)
In addition, the following players are on standby: goalkeeper Rhys Taylor (Crewe Alexandra, on loan from Chelsea), defenders Josh Dawkin (Norwich City), Adam Henley (Blackburn Rovers), David Stephens (Hibernian) and Ash Taylor (Tranmere Rovers), midfielders Tom Bender (Colchester United), Tom Lawrence (Manchester United), Lee Lucas (Swansea City) and strikers Kayleden Brown (West Bromwich Albion) and Casey Thomas (Swansea City).
As Christian Ribeiro and Ash Taylor are expected to be out for a while, I think some of the standby players might be needed.
Saturday, 31 July 2010
Wales v Luxembourg Squad News
Millwall striker Steve Morison is expected to be called up for Wales’ friendly in Luxembourg. Darcy Blake, who recently made his senior debut, is also expected to be in the squad following an impressive second half to the season with Cardiff City.
Craig Bellamy is expected to be in the squad but who knows if he’ll play? Gareth Bale, James Collins and Dave Edwards are also expected to be called up but apparently their managers might not let them go which will be really annoying.
Danny Gabbidon however is likely to miss out although he has now recovered from a groin injury. Aaron Ramsey (leg), Jack Collison (knee) and Joe Allen (shoulder) also won’t be fit.
Craig Bellamy is expected to be in the squad but who knows if he’ll play? Gareth Bale, James Collins and Dave Edwards are also expected to be called up but apparently their managers might not let them go which will be really annoying.
Danny Gabbidon however is likely to miss out although he has now recovered from a groin injury. Aaron Ramsey (leg), Jack Collison (knee) and Joe Allen (shoulder) also won’t be fit.
Welsh Player News 31st July Premier League/Championship
Jason Koumas was reported to have been released but he does seem to be still at Wigan Athletic – for now.
Lewis Price has signed for Crystal Palace after a successful trial with the club. For now he is the second-choice goalkeeper but Lewis is going to try and change that. He seems to be unbeaten so far in his pre-season games which is good. Admittedly both games were draws against non-league opposition but it’s not like Lewis could have gone up the other end and score their goals for them too.
Lewis Price has signed for Crystal Palace after a successful trial with the club. For now he is the second-choice goalkeeper but Lewis is going to try and change that. He seems to be unbeaten so far in his pre-season games which is good. Admittedly both games were draws against non-league opposition but it’s not like Lewis could have gone up the other end and score their goals for them too.
Welsh Player News 31st July Non-League/Irish
Will Richards is close to signing a deal with AFC Telford.
Kayne McLaggon is another whose trial doesn’t seem to have ended with a contract offer. He was on trial at Hereford United but he is now with Salisbury City, now three divisions below Hereford if I counted right. He has scored two in a recent friendly for Salisbury.
Jonathan North seems to have played for a few clubs since his release from Watford and I’m getting a bit confused now. I thought he was with Beaconsfield but it looks like I mixed that up with Hayes & Yeading or possibly Boreham Wood as he’s played for both sides, most recently Boreham Wood.
Matthew Tipton’s trial with Bradford City doesn’t seem to have gone that well. The striker has now signed for Dundalk.
Kayne McLaggon is another whose trial doesn’t seem to have ended with a contract offer. He was on trial at Hereford United but he is now with Salisbury City, now three divisions below Hereford if I counted right. He has scored two in a recent friendly for Salisbury.
Jonathan North seems to have played for a few clubs since his release from Watford and I’m getting a bit confused now. I thought he was with Beaconsfield but it looks like I mixed that up with Hayes & Yeading or possibly Boreham Wood as he’s played for both sides, most recently Boreham Wood.
Matthew Tipton’s trial with Bradford City doesn’t seem to have gone that well. The striker has now signed for Dundalk.
Welsh Player News 31st July Scotland
At least two Aberdeen trialists have been ditched but Grant Basey is still hanging in there and it looks as though the manager wants him. A return to Charlton Athletic certainly looks unlikely.
Joe Ledley thinks Celtic can still qualify for the Champions’ League. It’s probably about as likely as you staying at Cardiff, Joe. But as my Scottish friend’s little girl says, at least you’ll have more energy for beating Rangers next season and that’s the important thing.
Meanwhile David Stephens, now with Hibernian, is excited about playing in the Europa League. I think it’s great. It’s easy to see that for some Premier League clubs, the Europa League is just an embarrassing and unwelcome distraction that comes too close to the weekend games. But it’s great to see players appreciating it.
Kyle Letheren was on trial at Motherwell last I heard, now he seems to be at Kilmarnock. But this report is dated 22nd July, who knows where he is now.
Rhys Weston hasn’t signed for Motherwell yet but it’s expected to be finalised soon.
Joe Ledley thinks Celtic can still qualify for the Champions’ League. It’s probably about as likely as you staying at Cardiff, Joe. But as my Scottish friend’s little girl says, at least you’ll have more energy for beating Rangers next season and that’s the important thing.
Meanwhile David Stephens, now with Hibernian, is excited about playing in the Europa League. I think it’s great. It’s easy to see that for some Premier League clubs, the Europa League is just an embarrassing and unwelcome distraction that comes too close to the weekend games. But it’s great to see players appreciating it.
Kyle Letheren was on trial at Motherwell last I heard, now he seems to be at Kilmarnock. But this report is dated 22nd July, who knows where he is now.
Rhys Weston hasn’t signed for Motherwell yet but it’s expected to be finalised soon.
Welsh Player News 31st July League Two (Part Two)
Paul Walker kept a clean sheet for Northampton as they beat Nuneaton Town 2-0 away. He also played in the sides that drew with Championship Watford and lost just 1-0 to Coventry City.
Lewis Haldane is finally out of hospital. He was bitten by an insect two weeks ago and taken to hospital with blood poisoning. He’ll definitely miss Port Vale’s opening fixture and it could take him a while before he’s ready to play as he’s lost two and a half stone. That’s a scary amount. If I lost two and a half stone, I’d probably die. Lewis says he’s keeping positive and he hopes he’ll be back playing soon. I hope so too.
Gareth Owen, also of Port Vale, is hoping his club can have a proper go at getting promoted this year. He says the most important thing is squad unity – which will be easier now most of them have spent a whole season together. But there are a few new signings at Port Vale and it isn’t the squad unity Gareth is worried about. Gareth should play against Walsall tomorrow (31st July) after recovering from a hamstring problem.
Mark Bradley has been playing well for new club Rotherham United and it’s hardly a huge disaster that they lost 2-0 to Sheffield United.
Shrewsbury Town’s Tom Bradshaw celebrated his 18th birthday by drawing with Coventry City. Now bad when you play for a League Two club. Shrewsbury could even have won if they’d scored their penalty. He also scored the winner as Shrewsbury beat Havant & Waterlooville 2-1, a good score against a side that probably still gives Liverpool fans and players nightmares.
Lewis Haldane is finally out of hospital. He was bitten by an insect two weeks ago and taken to hospital with blood poisoning. He’ll definitely miss Port Vale’s opening fixture and it could take him a while before he’s ready to play as he’s lost two and a half stone. That’s a scary amount. If I lost two and a half stone, I’d probably die. Lewis says he’s keeping positive and he hopes he’ll be back playing soon. I hope so too.
Gareth Owen, also of Port Vale, is hoping his club can have a proper go at getting promoted this year. He says the most important thing is squad unity – which will be easier now most of them have spent a whole season together. But there are a few new signings at Port Vale and it isn’t the squad unity Gareth is worried about. Gareth should play against Walsall tomorrow (31st July) after recovering from a hamstring problem.
Mark Bradley has been playing well for new club Rotherham United and it’s hardly a huge disaster that they lost 2-0 to Sheffield United.
Shrewsbury Town’s Tom Bradshaw celebrated his 18th birthday by drawing with Coventry City. Now bad when you play for a League Two club. Shrewsbury could even have won if they’d scored their penalty. He also scored the winner as Shrewsbury beat Havant & Waterlooville 2-1, a good score against a side that probably still gives Liverpool fans and players nightmares.
Welsh Player News 31st July League Two (Part One)
Darren Jones is doing very well at new club Aldershot Town. The former Hereford defender has positive mentions in just about every Google News result I’ve found which is saying something. It seems like the only thing he’s failed to do is win a penalty, even though he probably deserved one.
Darren has a new Welsh team-mate at Aldershot now – Aaron Morris. The Wales under-21 international was released by Cardiff City at the end of last season and spent some time on trial at Exeter City. He was hoping to sign for Exeter but obviously it didn’t work out. But he’s got a nice new club now.
Michael Flynn has been out with a stomach strain but he should be playing for Bradford City again soon. He hasn’t played since Bradford’s first pre-season match but he’s not back in training.
Garyn Preen has signed for Burton Albion on a one-year deal. He almost immediately got injured (a thigh problem) but now he’s back and he’s survived ninety minutes.
Josh Klein-Davies is still in with a chance of winning a contract with Cheltenham Town. He was given another match to prove his worth and lost… although as they were playing Wolverhampton Wanderers, this probably isn’t too serious. And it sounds like he did give them a bit of trouble.
Let’s hope Josh Low is setting the other Josh a good example. Josh L is the second-oldest player at Cheltenham and he says he feels responsible for the younger ones.
Craig Davies was very happy to score the first ever goal by a Chesterfield player in their new stadium. They lost 5-4 but losing by one goal to a Championship side is pretty good. As is putting four past a Championship keeper. Maybe Derby shouldn’t have released Lewis Price.
Rhys Taylor played in goal for Crewe Alexandra as they beat Blackpool. It wasn’t a completely full-strength Blackpool but they’re still in the Premier League. I wonder if Rhys’ parent club, Chelsea, will keep a clean sheet against Blackpool this season. It’s not impossible they won’t!
Neal Eardley, Rob Edwards and David Vaughan all played in Blackpool’s team at various times.
Chris Jones has left Grimsby Town by mutual consent after the club apparently got fed up with waiting for someone to buy him. He went out on loan to Neath last season so maybe he’ll go back there. I’d rather see him in a Blue Square Premier side beating Grimsby but maybe that’s too much to ask. And a bit mean to Grimsby.
Stuart Fleetwood was criticised by the Hereford Times for not getting a hat-trick in the home friendly against Swindon Town. Swindon won 4-1. Perhaps Stuart took this comment to heart because a hat-trick is exactly what he did get when Hereford thrashed Lydbrook 7-0. Truem, Lydbrook aren’t the best side in the world but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re easy to score hat-tricks against. I’m sure hat-tricks against better sides will follow. Ryan Green and Ryan Valentine also featured in this win.
Darren has a new Welsh team-mate at Aldershot now – Aaron Morris. The Wales under-21 international was released by Cardiff City at the end of last season and spent some time on trial at Exeter City. He was hoping to sign for Exeter but obviously it didn’t work out. But he’s got a nice new club now.
Michael Flynn has been out with a stomach strain but he should be playing for Bradford City again soon. He hasn’t played since Bradford’s first pre-season match but he’s not back in training.
Garyn Preen has signed for Burton Albion on a one-year deal. He almost immediately got injured (a thigh problem) but now he’s back and he’s survived ninety minutes.
Josh Klein-Davies is still in with a chance of winning a contract with Cheltenham Town. He was given another match to prove his worth and lost… although as they were playing Wolverhampton Wanderers, this probably isn’t too serious. And it sounds like he did give them a bit of trouble.
Let’s hope Josh Low is setting the other Josh a good example. Josh L is the second-oldest player at Cheltenham and he says he feels responsible for the younger ones.
Craig Davies was very happy to score the first ever goal by a Chesterfield player in their new stadium. They lost 5-4 but losing by one goal to a Championship side is pretty good. As is putting four past a Championship keeper. Maybe Derby shouldn’t have released Lewis Price.
Rhys Taylor played in goal for Crewe Alexandra as they beat Blackpool. It wasn’t a completely full-strength Blackpool but they’re still in the Premier League. I wonder if Rhys’ parent club, Chelsea, will keep a clean sheet against Blackpool this season. It’s not impossible they won’t!
Neal Eardley, Rob Edwards and David Vaughan all played in Blackpool’s team at various times.
Chris Jones has left Grimsby Town by mutual consent after the club apparently got fed up with waiting for someone to buy him. He went out on loan to Neath last season so maybe he’ll go back there. I’d rather see him in a Blue Square Premier side beating Grimsby but maybe that’s too much to ask. And a bit mean to Grimsby.
Stuart Fleetwood was criticised by the Hereford Times for not getting a hat-trick in the home friendly against Swindon Town. Swindon won 4-1. Perhaps Stuart took this comment to heart because a hat-trick is exactly what he did get when Hereford thrashed Lydbrook 7-0. Truem, Lydbrook aren’t the best side in the world but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re easy to score hat-tricks against. I’m sure hat-tricks against better sides will follow. Ryan Green and Ryan Valentine also featured in this win.
Welsh Player News 31st July League One (Part Two)
Ben Davies played both games as Notts County beat Cardiff City 2-1 (oops) and lost 1-0 to Sheffield United. The Sheffield United goal was obviously scored by Ched Evans. Ben nearly equalised. The Cardiff game was a blip so I’m not going to talk about it.
Oldham Athletic manager Paul Dickov has received enquiries about some of his transfer-listed players but I don’t know if any of the enquiries were about Joe Jacobson. But they probably were.
Leicester City beat Peterborough United 5-1 in a penalty (Peterborough must be quite glad now they got relegated) but Arron Davies had a good game for the losing side.
Carl Fletcher has an ankle injury so he can’t play for Plymouth Argyle at the moment.
Anthony Pulis dislocated his shoulder in Southampton’s match against Farnborough and despite the shoulder’s popping back in again all by itself (ewww but good) it looks like he could be out for a while.
Ash Taylor will be out for 3-4 months of the season after having knee surgery. The Tranmere Rovers player injured his knee in training.
Oldham Athletic manager Paul Dickov has received enquiries about some of his transfer-listed players but I don’t know if any of the enquiries were about Joe Jacobson. But they probably were.
Leicester City beat Peterborough United 5-1 in a penalty (Peterborough must be quite glad now they got relegated) but Arron Davies had a good game for the losing side.
Carl Fletcher has an ankle injury so he can’t play for Plymouth Argyle at the moment.
Anthony Pulis dislocated his shoulder in Southampton’s match against Farnborough and despite the shoulder’s popping back in again all by itself (ewww but good) it looks like he could be out for a while.
Ash Taylor will be out for 3-4 months of the season after having knee surgery. The Tranmere Rovers player injured his knee in training.
Welsh Player News 31st July League One (Part One)
Joe Partington left the field after just 20 minutes when Bournemouth faced Derby County – the final score was 3-3. There were concerns that Joe had damaged a hamstring but it looks like he’s fine. His manager thinks being part of the Wales under-21 squad is hindering Joe’s career. I won’t say what I think of that, I’m too polite.
Rhoys Wiggins is finally a Bournemouth player. He wanted to join ages ago but he couldn’t because of their transfer embargo although he did get to spend two very successful loan spells there. Bournemouth still have financial problems but luckily the supporters like Rhoys quite a lot and helped the club to pay for him. Rhoys really appreciates it. He played his first match as a Bournemouth player just hours after his transfer became official.
Ben Swallow has recovered from a knee injury but now he has a virus and he’s unlikely to play in Bristol Rovers’ upcoming friendly against Cheltenham Town.
Jason Price didn’t feature for Carlisle United against Falkirk last night but he is expected to play against Middlesbrough tonight. As the matches are on consecutive nights I’m not worried about why Jason didn’t play both. But I’m sure he could do it if he wanted to.
Lee Beevers, who has finally made his return from shoulder and knee injuries, says that playing for Colchester United again is like playing for a new club. No wonder, this Vital Football article says he’ll be competing for six ‘passions’. Sounds fun to me.
(Not that I’ve never made a mistake like that, I do it in speech too.)
Lloyd James is now a Colchester United player after signing a permanent deal. He has been training with Colchester since Southampton released him.
Richard Duffy picked up a knock in an Exeter City friendly defeat against Crystal Palace and it was hoped he’d be fit enough to play against Bristol City but he wasn’t – so he missed his team’s 3-1 victory. Danny Nardiello won the penalty that became Exeter’s first goal, as well as scoring the third.
Rob Edwards also played well. Goalkeeper Andy Marriott and trialist Aaron Morris (who has since signed for Aldershot Town) have also featured in Exeter friendlies.
England’s Robert Green showed what a good keeper he is when he prevented Milton Keynes Dons striker Jermaine Easter from scoring against him. West Ham United won 2-0.
Rhoys Wiggins is finally a Bournemouth player. He wanted to join ages ago but he couldn’t because of their transfer embargo although he did get to spend two very successful loan spells there. Bournemouth still have financial problems but luckily the supporters like Rhoys quite a lot and helped the club to pay for him. Rhoys really appreciates it. He played his first match as a Bournemouth player just hours after his transfer became official.
Ben Swallow has recovered from a knee injury but now he has a virus and he’s unlikely to play in Bristol Rovers’ upcoming friendly against Cheltenham Town.
Jason Price didn’t feature for Carlisle United against Falkirk last night but he is expected to play against Middlesbrough tonight. As the matches are on consecutive nights I’m not worried about why Jason didn’t play both. But I’m sure he could do it if he wanted to.
Lee Beevers, who has finally made his return from shoulder and knee injuries, says that playing for Colchester United again is like playing for a new club. No wonder, this Vital Football article says he’ll be competing for six ‘passions’. Sounds fun to me.
(Not that I’ve never made a mistake like that, I do it in speech too.)
Lloyd James is now a Colchester United player after signing a permanent deal. He has been training with Colchester since Southampton released him.
Richard Duffy picked up a knock in an Exeter City friendly defeat against Crystal Palace and it was hoped he’d be fit enough to play against Bristol City but he wasn’t – so he missed his team’s 3-1 victory. Danny Nardiello won the penalty that became Exeter’s first goal, as well as scoring the third.
Rob Edwards also played well. Goalkeeper Andy Marriott and trialist Aaron Morris (who has since signed for Aldershot Town) have also featured in Exeter friendlies.
England’s Robert Green showed what a good keeper he is when he prevented Milton Keynes Dons striker Jermaine Easter from scoring against him. West Ham United won 2-0.
Friday, 30 July 2010
Welsh Player news (Championship) Part 2
Hull City are said to be making a move for Millwall’s Steve Morison. Steve scored Millwall’s goal when they lost 2-1 to his former side Stevenage.
Norwich City’a Academy boss Ricky Martin is delighted that Josh Dawkin is a standby for the Wales under-21 team.
Swansea City manager Brian McDermott wasn’t exactly thrilled when his team were trailing 1-0 at half-time. Luckily Hal Robson-Kanu managed to help out with a goal
Brian McDermott thinks Jake Taylor could end up like Nicky Shorey but I kind of hope he’ll be better than that.
Ched Evans got the only goal as his team Sheffield United beat Notts County 1-0 away.
Joe Allen is a doubt for Swansea’s first game of the season as he is recvering from a shoulder operation.
Matty Collins has been on trial at Wycombe Wanderers but manager Gary Waddock has decided not to sign him. Matty played for Wycombe at the weekend when they beat Hayes & Yeading 3-1. That’s not a bad result you know when you’re playing against two teams. Matty is going back to Swansea though so it looks like he hasn’t been released.
David Cotterill scored for Swansea as hey beat Haaglandia 4-1 away.
Goalkeeper Jonathan Bond has signed a three-year professional contract with Watford.
Norwich City’a Academy boss Ricky Martin is delighted that Josh Dawkin is a standby for the Wales under-21 team.
Swansea City manager Brian McDermott wasn’t exactly thrilled when his team were trailing 1-0 at half-time. Luckily Hal Robson-Kanu managed to help out with a goal
Brian McDermott thinks Jake Taylor could end up like Nicky Shorey but I kind of hope he’ll be better than that.
Ched Evans got the only goal as his team Sheffield United beat Notts County 1-0 away.
Joe Allen is a doubt for Swansea’s first game of the season as he is recvering from a shoulder operation.
Matty Collins has been on trial at Wycombe Wanderers but manager Gary Waddock has decided not to sign him. Matty played for Wycombe at the weekend when they beat Hayes & Yeading 3-1. That’s not a bad result you know when you’re playing against two teams. Matty is going back to Swansea though so it looks like he hasn’t been released.
David Cotterill scored for Swansea as hey beat Haaglandia 4-1 away.
Goalkeeper Jonathan Bond has signed a three-year professional contract with Watford.
Welsh Player news (Championship) Part 1
Christian Ribeiro’s back injury is likely to keep him out of Swansea City’s opening game. So I would guess he won’t be playing for the Wales under-21s either, despite being picked. But other than that, he seems to be recovering well.
Freddy Eastwood scored in a 2-0 away victory over Walsall.
Nice to see Robbie Savage being so complimentary about his fellow Welshmen. He thinks Mark Hughes will do a great job at Fulham and Craig Bellamy could do a lot worse than sign for Aston Villa. Robbie missed Derby County’s last friendly with a slight groin strain.
Doncaster Rovers midfielder John Oster has had a knee operation and will miss the start of the season.
New Swansea City Brendan Rogers ha href="http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/07/28/rodgers-is-keen-on-taking-stock-to-swansea-91466-26944275/">has his eye on Doncaster’s Brian Stock.
West Bromwich Albion have made a bid for Hull City goalkeeper Boaz Myhill – and it looks like Hull can’t afford to turn it down
Nicky Adams has been playing at right back for Leicester City. New manager Paolo Sousa seems to like him so far. But Brentford manager Andy Scott hasn’t given up hope yet.
Andy King thinks Leicester City will be more potent this season than last season – even though Leicester finishes fourth. Andy opened the scoring when Leicester beat Peterborough United 5-1 away.
Freddy Eastwood scored in a 2-0 away victory over Walsall.
Nice to see Robbie Savage being so complimentary about his fellow Welshmen. He thinks Mark Hughes will do a great job at Fulham and Craig Bellamy could do a lot worse than sign for Aston Villa. Robbie missed Derby County’s last friendly with a slight groin strain.
Doncaster Rovers midfielder John Oster has had a knee operation and will miss the start of the season.
New Swansea City Brendan Rogers ha href="http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/07/28/rodgers-is-keen-on-taking-stock-to-swansea-91466-26944275/">has his eye on Doncaster’s Brian Stock.
West Bromwich Albion have made a bid for Hull City goalkeeper Boaz Myhill – and it looks like Hull can’t afford to turn it down
Nicky Adams has been playing at right back for Leicester City. New manager Paolo Sousa seems to like him so far. But Brentford manager Andy Scott hasn’t given up hope yet.
Andy King thinks Leicester City will be more potent this season than last season – even though Leicester finishes fourth. Andy opened the scoring when Leicester beat Peterborough United 5-1 away.
Thursday, 29 July 2010
Welsh Player News (Premier League)
James Collins has had a few injury problems this pre-season. He left the field after just three minutes of Aston Villa’s friendly with Walsall (Walsall 1-2 Aston Villa) due to a calf problem but he has been allowed to travel to Portugal to play Feyennord and Benfica. He did sit out of the first training session but that's not necessarily anything to freak out about.
Neal Eardley started for Blackpool against Crewe Alexandra but he was replaced due to injury. Rob Edwards was also substituted but I'm hoping he's okay. Blackpool’s David Vaughan made a substitute appearance against his former side. The match finished Crewe 1-0 Blackpool. Oh dear.
Rob Edwards has signed a new contract with Blackpool. He wanted top-flight football so staying with Blackpool must have seemed the sensible option - in the short-term at least. Rob scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Leyton Orient.
Steve McClaren, now manager of Wolfsburg, has failed in a bid to sign Craig Bellamy on loan. But don't feel too bad, Steve. I don’t think many people would succeed in making Craig do something he didn’t want to do.
There has been a slight variation on the usual Craig Bellamy to Tottenham Hotspur rumours. Now he is apparently joining them on loan. Or no, maybe Tottenham will pay £4 million. Unless, of course, he joins former manager Mark Hughes at Fulham.
Ryan Giggs isn’t planning on hanging up his boots anytime soon – and he doesn’t think his manager will either. Ryan thinks the younger players will learn from their defeat to Kansas City.
Read an interview with Ryan Giggs.
Only three players have played more Premier League games than Arsenal traitor Sol Campbell – and two of them are Welsh.
Owen Hargreaves might not play until January. I know he chose England but does anyone else want to hug him? Not that it’ll help him. At least the problem this time is the home-grown rule. Bryan Robson, meanwhile, has urged Owen not to give up.
Stoke City manager Tony Pulis isn’t interested in managing Wales because he hasn’t finished the job at Stoke City. But I’ll forgive him because he says Wales have a chance of qualifying for Euro 2012.
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Danny Rose wants to be just like Gareth Bale. Aww.
Wayne Hennessey missed a friendly for Wolverhampton Wanderers due to a back strain but maybe he’s okay by now.
Dave Edwards scored for Wolverhampton Wanderers against Charleroi. Wolves won 2-1. However he missed the 2-1 defeat against Reading after suffering an adverse reaction to an insect sting. He is the second Welsh player this has happened to this season – the first was Port Vale’s Lewis Haldane.
David Jones says the defeat to Reading was a positive after three wins because it puts things in perspective. He’s got a point actually. But he probably finds it easier to be cheerful than his team-mates. He did score the consolation goal.
Sam Vokes wants to fight for a first-team place at Wolves.
Neal Eardley started for Blackpool against Crewe Alexandra but he was replaced due to injury. Rob Edwards was also substituted but I'm hoping he's okay. Blackpool’s David Vaughan made a substitute appearance against his former side. The match finished Crewe 1-0 Blackpool. Oh dear.
Rob Edwards has signed a new contract with Blackpool. He wanted top-flight football so staying with Blackpool must have seemed the sensible option - in the short-term at least. Rob scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Leyton Orient.
Steve McClaren, now manager of Wolfsburg, has failed in a bid to sign Craig Bellamy on loan. But don't feel too bad, Steve. I don’t think many people would succeed in making Craig do something he didn’t want to do.
There has been a slight variation on the usual Craig Bellamy to Tottenham Hotspur rumours. Now he is apparently joining them on loan. Or no, maybe Tottenham will pay £4 million. Unless, of course, he joins former manager Mark Hughes at Fulham.
Ryan Giggs isn’t planning on hanging up his boots anytime soon – and he doesn’t think his manager will either. Ryan thinks the younger players will learn from their defeat to Kansas City.
Read an interview with Ryan Giggs.
Only three players have played more Premier League games than Arsenal traitor Sol Campbell – and two of them are Welsh.
Owen Hargreaves might not play until January. I know he chose England but does anyone else want to hug him? Not that it’ll help him. At least the problem this time is the home-grown rule. Bryan Robson, meanwhile, has urged Owen not to give up.
Stoke City manager Tony Pulis isn’t interested in managing Wales because he hasn’t finished the job at Stoke City. But I’ll forgive him because he says Wales have a chance of qualifying for Euro 2012.
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Danny Rose wants to be just like Gareth Bale. Aww.
Wayne Hennessey missed a friendly for Wolverhampton Wanderers due to a back strain but maybe he’s okay by now.
Dave Edwards scored for Wolverhampton Wanderers against Charleroi. Wolves won 2-1. However he missed the 2-1 defeat against Reading after suffering an adverse reaction to an insect sting. He is the second Welsh player this has happened to this season – the first was Port Vale’s Lewis Haldane.
David Jones says the defeat to Reading was a positive after three wins because it puts things in perspective. He’s got a point actually. But he probably finds it easier to be cheerful than his team-mates. He did score the consolation goal.
Sam Vokes wants to fight for a first-team place at Wolves.
Monday, 19 July 2010
Welsh Player News (and rumours) 19th July
Arsenal striker Sanchez Watt was omitted from the squad to face Barnet in a friendly. Is he injured, ill, or on his way?
Simon Davies says he wouldn’t mind at all if Martin Jol became Fulham’s new manager./8863/
Ryan Giggs thinks it’s the younger players who will be the stars as Manchester United hope to become Premier League champions again. That doesn’t include Ryan then. It probably also doesn’t include Wes Brown, who believes Ryan is the best player ever.
Tottenham Hotspur are linked with a Welsh striker. You know which one.
Gavin Williams sat out a Bristol City training session due to a knock but it doesn’t sound too serious.
Lewis Price is expected to sign a contract with Crystal Palace today – but for now he’s their second-choice goalkeeper.
Boaz Myhill has a stiff groin but he’ll still travel to Portgual to watch Hull City’s opening friendlies.
Troy Brown is expected to travel with Ipswich Town to Holland for their pre-season tour.
Grant Basey is on trial at Aberdeen after Charlton Athletic forgot to give him a new contract (it’s the only explanation, Grant was excellent for Charlton last season).
Lloyd James is one of two players to have been offered a contract by Colchester United after a successful trial. Manager John Ward really hopes he’ll sign
The Jewish Chronicle says Joe Jacobson has been released by Oldham Athletic but Yahoo Sport says he’s returned to training.
This can’t possibly be true but it’s nice to see Anthony Pulis mentioned in the same sentence as Cristiano Ronaldo and Cesc Fabregas.
Josh Klein-Davies has survived another eviction. He’s one of two remaing housemates, or rather trialists, at Cheltenham Town. A contract offer is looking very likely.
Simon Davies says he wouldn’t mind at all if Martin Jol became Fulham’s new manager./8863/
Ryan Giggs thinks it’s the younger players who will be the stars as Manchester United hope to become Premier League champions again. That doesn’t include Ryan then. It probably also doesn’t include Wes Brown, who believes Ryan is the best player ever.
Tottenham Hotspur are linked with a Welsh striker. You know which one.
Gavin Williams sat out a Bristol City training session due to a knock but it doesn’t sound too serious.
Lewis Price is expected to sign a contract with Crystal Palace today – but for now he’s their second-choice goalkeeper.
Boaz Myhill has a stiff groin but he’ll still travel to Portgual to watch Hull City’s opening friendlies.
Troy Brown is expected to travel with Ipswich Town to Holland for their pre-season tour.
Grant Basey is on trial at Aberdeen after Charlton Athletic forgot to give him a new contract (it’s the only explanation, Grant was excellent for Charlton last season).
Lloyd James is one of two players to have been offered a contract by Colchester United after a successful trial. Manager John Ward really hopes he’ll sign
The Jewish Chronicle says Joe Jacobson has been released by Oldham Athletic but Yahoo Sport says he’s returned to training.
This can’t possibly be true but it’s nice to see Anthony Pulis mentioned in the same sentence as Cristiano Ronaldo and Cesc Fabregas.
Josh Klein-Davies has survived another eviction. He’s one of two remaing housemates, or rather trialists, at Cheltenham Town. A contract offer is looking very likely.
Pre-season Friendlies (Part Seven)
Tivertown 0-2 Blackpool
Rob Edwards still doesn’t have a contract or anything like that as far as I know but there was no doubt which team he belonged to – he scored the winning goal (though Goal.com unfortunately managed to get his name wrong). Maybe he can do the same against Chelsea this season. Neal Eardley and David Vaughan also played.
Yeovil 0-1 Swansea City
David Cotterill’s 5th minute goal gave Swansea an away victory over Yeovil. David and Ashley Willliams both started the match. David Cornell, Jazz Richards, Neil Taylor and Shaun MacDonald were four of elevel 60th minute substitutions. Shaun, who spent much of last season at Yeovil, got a warm reception from the fans although they might have changed their tune if Shaun’s shot had gone into the goal. Shaun was very happy with the game but Ashley wasn’t. Kerry Morgan was unable to play as he has fractured a bone in his foot.
Rob Edwards still doesn’t have a contract or anything like that as far as I know but there was no doubt which team he belonged to – he scored the winning goal (though Goal.com unfortunately managed to get his name wrong). Maybe he can do the same against Chelsea this season. Neal Eardley and David Vaughan also played.
Yeovil 0-1 Swansea City
David Cotterill’s 5th minute goal gave Swansea an away victory over Yeovil. David and Ashley Willliams both started the match. David Cornell, Jazz Richards, Neil Taylor and Shaun MacDonald were four of elevel 60th minute substitutions. Shaun, who spent much of last season at Yeovil, got a warm reception from the fans although they might have changed their tune if Shaun’s shot had gone into the goal. Shaun was very happy with the game but Ashley wasn’t. Kerry Morgan was unable to play as he has fractured a bone in his foot.
Pre-season Friendlies (Part Six)
Portimonense 3 - 0 Cardiff City
Poor Cardiff but they actually didn’t play that badly. They were just a bit short of players. Adam Matthews came on as a aubstitute but Jonathan Meades was left on the bench because he ‘s too young to play against this sort of opposition (he’ll be just thrilled when he finds that out). Aaron Wildig stayed in Cardiff due to a knee injury.
Portsmouth 1-2 West Ham United
Portsmouth lost to West Ham United but they didn’t especially look like a Championship side playing a Premier League side so who knows, maybe Portsmouth will be back in the Premier League before long. I hope not though. I want Cardiff City and Millwall to go up with either Hull City or Middlesbrough. That won’t happen though.
Arron Davies did well for new club Peterborough. Jack Collison wouldn’t have played for West Ham as he’s recovering from a knee operation but Danny Gabbidon might have played. I tried to find out but I couldn't.
San Jose Earthquakes 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur
Gareth Bale was arguably Tottenham’s most dangerous player but they still drew with San José which is quite funny if you’re an Arsenal supporter. Gareth hurt his ankle but he says it’s just bruising.
SC Olhanense 1-2 Nottingham Forest
Robert Earnshaw scored the opening goal for Nottngham Forest. Rob played the first 45 minutes with Chris Gunter coming on after half-time.
Southport 0-3 Blackburn Rovers
Jason Brown played the second half in goal as Blackburn beat Southport.
AFC Telford 3-0 Prescot Cables
Will Richards played well for AFC Telford and the Shropshire Star correctly predicted that he’d be offered a contract following the game.
Poor Cardiff but they actually didn’t play that badly. They were just a bit short of players. Adam Matthews came on as a aubstitute but Jonathan Meades was left on the bench because he ‘s too young to play against this sort of opposition (he’ll be just thrilled when he finds that out). Aaron Wildig stayed in Cardiff due to a knee injury.
Portsmouth 1-2 West Ham United
Portsmouth lost to West Ham United but they didn’t especially look like a Championship side playing a Premier League side so who knows, maybe Portsmouth will be back in the Premier League before long. I hope not though. I want Cardiff City and Millwall to go up with either Hull City or Middlesbrough. That won’t happen though.
Arron Davies did well for new club Peterborough. Jack Collison wouldn’t have played for West Ham as he’s recovering from a knee operation but Danny Gabbidon might have played. I tried to find out but I couldn't.
San Jose Earthquakes 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur
Gareth Bale was arguably Tottenham’s most dangerous player but they still drew with San José which is quite funny if you’re an Arsenal supporter. Gareth hurt his ankle but he says it’s just bruising.
SC Olhanense 1-2 Nottingham Forest
Robert Earnshaw scored the opening goal for Nottngham Forest. Rob played the first 45 minutes with Chris Gunter coming on after half-time.
Southport 0-3 Blackburn Rovers
Jason Brown played the second half in goal as Blackburn beat Southport.
AFC Telford 3-0 Prescot Cables
Will Richards played well for AFC Telford and the Shropshire Star correctly predicted that he’d be offered a contract following the game.
Pre-season Friendlies (Part Five)
NAC Breda 0-1 Plymouth Argyle
Carl Fletcher played in defence as Plymouth beat a top-level Dutch side.
NK Inter Zaprešić 0-2 Reading
Simon Church set up the first goal as Reading got another win on their pre-season tour and managed to be caught offside 35 times. Striker Jake Taylor played at right back and can’t have done a bad job. He and Hal Robson-Kanu were both substitutes.
North Ferriby 1-5 Bradford City
Michael Flynn missed out on Bradford’s win due to a groin injury. Trialist Matt Tipton played but although he doesn’t seem to have scored any of the goals, manager Peter Taylor said afterwards that he’d done well.
Norwich United 0-3 Norwich City XI
Owain Tudur Jones played 90 minutes for Norwich City XI so it wasn’t exactly a weak side. Owain scored the opening goal in the 7th minute. Josh Dawkin also played the full match but there was no place for Rhoys Wiggins.
Oxford City 0-3 Milton Keynes Dons
Jermaine Easter hit the crossbar for MK Dons but it didn’t quite go into the net. He played well though.
Carl Fletcher played in defence as Plymouth beat a top-level Dutch side.
NK Inter Zaprešić 0-2 Reading
Simon Church set up the first goal as Reading got another win on their pre-season tour and managed to be caught offside 35 times. Striker Jake Taylor played at right back and can’t have done a bad job. He and Hal Robson-Kanu were both substitutes.
North Ferriby 1-5 Bradford City
Michael Flynn missed out on Bradford’s win due to a groin injury. Trialist Matt Tipton played but although he doesn’t seem to have scored any of the goals, manager Peter Taylor said afterwards that he’d done well.
Norwich United 0-3 Norwich City XI
Owain Tudur Jones played 90 minutes for Norwich City XI so it wasn’t exactly a weak side. Owain scored the opening goal in the 7th minute. Josh Dawkin also played the full match but there was no place for Rhoys Wiggins.
Oxford City 0-3 Milton Keynes Dons
Jermaine Easter hit the crossbar for MK Dons but it didn’t quite go into the net. He played well though.
Pre-season Friendlies (Part Four)
Hereford United 1-4 Swindon Town
Probably not the result Hereford fans were hoping for but as Swindon came close to getting into the Championship last season, the result isn’t that bad. Especially as two of Swindon’s goals were penalties. New signing Stuart Fleetwood looked dangerous for Hereford and Ryan Valentine was one player who tried to set him up after a great run. Stuart didn’t score Hereford’s goal but he did get the assist. Ryan Green conceded one of the penalties but not the other one.
The Ryans and Stuart all played the full match for Hereford and Kayne McLaggon was a 74th minute substitute. Kye Edwards stayed on the bench. Craig Jones didn’t play for Hereford because he’s left the club which seems like a good reason to me
Billy Bodin came off the bench as early as the 9th minute for Swindon and played until the 53rd minute.
Manchester City 3-0 Portland
Craig Bellamy started as Manchester City beat Portland 3-0. I would like to say this is a sign he isn’t going anywhere but unfortunately the team was full of players who have been linked with the exit.
Manchester United 3-1 Celtic
Ryan Giggs started for Manchester United and would have scored if Dimitar Berbatov hadn’t been so selfish (although you can’t blame Berbatov for being desperate to score a goal. It was when Ryan was substuted that Man Utd began to struggle. Owen Hargreaves missed out following his latest setback. It doesn’t look good. Michael Owen also didn’t play but he should be okay when the season starts.
Joe Ledley played for new club Celtic and won the penalty that gave them their goal.
Probably not the result Hereford fans were hoping for but as Swindon came close to getting into the Championship last season, the result isn’t that bad. Especially as two of Swindon’s goals were penalties. New signing Stuart Fleetwood looked dangerous for Hereford and Ryan Valentine was one player who tried to set him up after a great run. Stuart didn’t score Hereford’s goal but he did get the assist. Ryan Green conceded one of the penalties but not the other one.
The Ryans and Stuart all played the full match for Hereford and Kayne McLaggon was a 74th minute substitute. Kye Edwards stayed on the bench. Craig Jones didn’t play for Hereford because he’s left the club which seems like a good reason to me
Billy Bodin came off the bench as early as the 9th minute for Swindon and played until the 53rd minute.
Manchester City 3-0 Portland
Craig Bellamy started as Manchester City beat Portland 3-0. I would like to say this is a sign he isn’t going anywhere but unfortunately the team was full of players who have been linked with the exit.
Manchester United 3-1 Celtic
Ryan Giggs started for Manchester United and would have scored if Dimitar Berbatov hadn’t been so selfish (although you can’t blame Berbatov for being desperate to score a goal. It was when Ryan was substuted that Man Utd began to struggle. Owen Hargreaves missed out following his latest setback. It doesn’t look good. Michael Owen also didn’t play but he should be okay when the season starts.
Joe Ledley played for new club Celtic and won the penalty that gave them their goal.
Pre-season Friendlies (Part Three)
Clevedon Town 0-3 Exeter City
Daniel Nardiello scored for Exeter as they beat Clevedon Town. Daniel was a real handful during this match and Richard Duffy came close to getting on the scoresheet too. Daniel, Richard and Rob Edwards were all in Exeter’s starting line-up but there was no sign of Andy Marriott, even though they used two goalkeepers.
Crystal Palace 0-1 Chelsea
Andy Dorman came close to scoring against the League Champions when his new side lost narrowly to Chelsea.
Dartford 2-0 Southend United
Peter Gilbert played for Southend and must have been quite disappointed with the result. This report says he’s a new signing but as far as I know, he hasn’t been able to sign a contract due to Southend’s financial situation and all he’s done is agree a contract. Until they do sign, Southend have only nine players on their books.
Dorchester Town 1-1 Dagenham & Redbridge
Dorchester’s late goal gave the Conference South side a draw with League One Dag & Red. Dorchester could have scored early in the match but Tony Roberts wouldn’t let them.
Daniel Nardiello scored for Exeter as they beat Clevedon Town. Daniel was a real handful during this match and Richard Duffy came close to getting on the scoresheet too. Daniel, Richard and Rob Edwards were all in Exeter’s starting line-up but there was no sign of Andy Marriott, even though they used two goalkeepers.
Crystal Palace 0-1 Chelsea
Andy Dorman came close to scoring against the League Champions when his new side lost narrowly to Chelsea.
Dartford 2-0 Southend United
Peter Gilbert played for Southend and must have been quite disappointed with the result. This report says he’s a new signing but as far as I know, he hasn’t been able to sign a contract due to Southend’s financial situation and all he’s done is agree a contract. Until they do sign, Southend have only nine players on their books.
Dorchester Town 1-1 Dagenham & Redbridge
Dorchester’s late goal gave the Conference South side a draw with League One Dag & Red. Dorchester could have scored early in the match but Tony Roberts wouldn’t let them.
Pre-season Friendlies (Part Two)
Bournemouth 1-1 Fulham
A great result for a side who have already lost to Tottenham Hotspur this pre-season (not that Tottenham are any good of course). Pre-season doesn’t always tell you anything but it will be a worry for Fulham after losing Roy Hodgson to Liverpool, a team who didn’t get as far in the Europa League as Fulham.
Joe Partington has been playing well for Bournemouth. Simon Davies was in Fulham’s team.
Burton Albion 0-1 Derby County
Robbie Savage played as a holding midfielder as his team Derby beat League Two Burton. New signing Gareth Roberts made his Derby debut.
Trialist Garyn Preen impressed Burton manager Paul Peschisolido. Tony James also played for Burton.
Carlisle United 0-3 Newcastle United
It was a good result for Newcastle but they need to do the same against bigger clubs than Carlisle if they want to stay in the Premier League.
Second-half substitute Jason Price could have got one back for Carlisle but he didn’t. He has had a calf problem so maybe it’s still troubling him.
Charlotte Eagles 0-3 Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts was one of the only players to play the full match as Bolton beat Charlotte Eagles. He also gave an interview, which is something I like to see from Welsh players.
Cheltenham Town 5-0 Gloucester
Josh Low scored one of the goals as Cheltenham beat Gloucester City. Trialist Josh Klein-Davies was a half-time substitute. He got an assist and looks likely to be retained by Cheltenham.
Chorley 1-4 Preston North End
Craig Morgan, who has been given the No. 2 shirt at new club Preston, played the second half of this match but there was no sign of Paul Parry, who is recovering from injury but has played 45 minutes for Preston this pre-season.
A great result for a side who have already lost to Tottenham Hotspur this pre-season (not that Tottenham are any good of course). Pre-season doesn’t always tell you anything but it will be a worry for Fulham after losing Roy Hodgson to Liverpool, a team who didn’t get as far in the Europa League as Fulham.
Joe Partington has been playing well for Bournemouth. Simon Davies was in Fulham’s team.
Burton Albion 0-1 Derby County
Robbie Savage played as a holding midfielder as his team Derby beat League Two Burton. New signing Gareth Roberts made his Derby debut.
Trialist Garyn Preen impressed Burton manager Paul Peschisolido. Tony James also played for Burton.
Carlisle United 0-3 Newcastle United
It was a good result for Newcastle but they need to do the same against bigger clubs than Carlisle if they want to stay in the Premier League.
Second-half substitute Jason Price could have got one back for Carlisle but he didn’t. He has had a calf problem so maybe it’s still troubling him.
Charlotte Eagles 0-3 Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts was one of the only players to play the full match as Bolton beat Charlotte Eagles. He also gave an interview, which is something I like to see from Welsh players.
Cheltenham Town 5-0 Gloucester
Josh Low scored one of the goals as Cheltenham beat Gloucester City. Trialist Josh Klein-Davies was a half-time substitute. He got an assist and looks likely to be retained by Cheltenham.
Chorley 1-4 Preston North End
Craig Morgan, who has been given the No. 2 shirt at new club Preston, played the second half of this match but there was no sign of Paul Parry, who is recovering from injury but has played 45 minutes for Preston this pre-season.
Pre-season Friendlies (Part One)
AFC Wimbledon 0-1 Millwall
Steve Morison scored a penalty to give Millwall a win over rivals AFC Wimbledon. Millwall manager – and former Welsh international – Kenny Jackett has apparently told John Toshack to pick Steve for Wales. I second his motion.
Arka Gdynia 1-0 Notts County
Just because I haven't heard of Arka Gdynia, it doesn't mean this is a bad result for Notts County. They are in the top Polish division.
Ben Davies missed out on this match due to a slight groin problem.
Basingstoke 2-1 Aston Villa
Goalkeeper Elliott Parish played for Aston Villa as they lost to Blue Square South team Basingstoke. James Collins came off the bench but that wasn’t the Welsh one. The Welsh one didn’t play.
Basingstoke 2-1 Southampton XI
If Basingstoke can beat Aston Villa, they ought to be able to beat Southampton and this is exactly what they did. Anthony Pulis came off the bench in the second half but Ryan Doble didn’t play.
Bohemians 0-3 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wayne Hennessey finally got back where he belonged for Wolves (between the sticks) when they played Irish side Bohemians. David Jones also played and got the header for the opening goal. Sam Vokes came off the bench and nearly scored. I’m not sure about Dave Edwards but this article suggests he was a substitute.
Boston United 1-0 Grimsby Town
Grimsby continue to show off their transfer-listed players, including striker Chris Jones, who nearly scored. Grimsby lost but as they left all their first-team players behind, maybe that wasn’t a huge surprise.
Steve Morison scored a penalty to give Millwall a win over rivals AFC Wimbledon. Millwall manager – and former Welsh international – Kenny Jackett has apparently told John Toshack to pick Steve for Wales. I second his motion.
Arka Gdynia 1-0 Notts County
Just because I haven't heard of Arka Gdynia, it doesn't mean this is a bad result for Notts County. They are in the top Polish division.
Ben Davies missed out on this match due to a slight groin problem.
Basingstoke 2-1 Aston Villa
Goalkeeper Elliott Parish played for Aston Villa as they lost to Blue Square South team Basingstoke. James Collins came off the bench but that wasn’t the Welsh one. The Welsh one didn’t play.
Basingstoke 2-1 Southampton XI
If Basingstoke can beat Aston Villa, they ought to be able to beat Southampton and this is exactly what they did. Anthony Pulis came off the bench in the second half but Ryan Doble didn’t play.
Bohemians 0-3 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wayne Hennessey finally got back where he belonged for Wolves (between the sticks) when they played Irish side Bohemians. David Jones also played and got the header for the opening goal. Sam Vokes came off the bench and nearly scored. I’m not sure about Dave Edwards but this article suggests he was a substitute.
Boston United 1-0 Grimsby Town
Grimsby continue to show off their transfer-listed players, including striker Chris Jones, who nearly scored. Grimsby lost but as they left all their first-team players behind, maybe that wasn’t a huge surprise.
Friday, 16 July 2010
Welsh Player News (League One, League Two)
Jason Price says he is delighted to be back with Carlisle United. He spent time there on loan from Millwall last season. He says Carlisle is miles from anywhere but that doesn’t matter when you feel wanted. I think he might have a point. Jason scored Carlisie’s fourth goal when they beat Kendal 4-1 in a friendly.
Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale thinks Daniel Nardiello will be a good signing. And I’m not exactly going to argue with him.
Carl Fletcher can’t wait to start playing again after being away from football for two whole months. Maybe he should come out of retirement for Wales and help them into Euro 2012. Then maybe he’ll enjoy his summer. Just a thought, Carl.
Ash Taylor is hoping to remain in Tranmere Rovers’ first team next season. And if he can do it as a centre back, even better.
Lewis Haldane is still in hospital after suffering an insect bite.
Rotherham manager Ronnie Moore says new sigining Mark Bradley will be a key player.
Matthew Tipton is hoping to impress manager Peter Taylor during his trial at Bradford City.
Welsh Player News (Premier League, Championship)
Paul Abbandonato tells us the answers to Wales’ problems.
Find out what David Vaughan did when he promised to give a signed shirt to a school… only to discover there weren’t any!
Simon Davies says Liverpool will be a much better team now they’ve stolen Roy Hodgson from Fulham.
Ryan Giggs thinks England failed at the World Cup due to their lack of team ethic. So Ryan, why do Wales never even qualify? ;)
Michael Owen wins the double. Well, kind of.
Gareth Bale is hoping for glory with club and country. And I hope he gets it. With his country anyway.
Aaron Wildig will miss Cardiff City’s trip to the Algarve due to a slight knee injury.
Robbie Savage would like to be the next Gary Linekar. He’s got better hair than Gary but I think I know what he means. He also thinks Arsenal or Tottenham should sign Craig Bellamy. I disagree. I think it should be Arsenal or Arsenal.
Nicky Adams hopes he will have another chance to prove himself at Leicester City following the arrival of new manager Paolo Sousa. He has some very positive words to say about his new manager – but then he would do, wouldn’t he?
Millwall’s Steve Morison is expected to be called into Wales’ squad for their Euro 2012 qualifier away to Montenegro.
Find out what David Vaughan did when he promised to give a signed shirt to a school… only to discover there weren’t any!
Simon Davies says Liverpool will be a much better team now they’ve stolen Roy Hodgson from Fulham.
Ryan Giggs thinks England failed at the World Cup due to their lack of team ethic. So Ryan, why do Wales never even qualify? ;)
Michael Owen wins the double. Well, kind of.
Gareth Bale is hoping for glory with club and country. And I hope he gets it. With his country anyway.
Aaron Wildig will miss Cardiff City’s trip to the Algarve due to a slight knee injury.
Robbie Savage would like to be the next Gary Linekar. He’s got better hair than Gary but I think I know what he means. He also thinks Arsenal or Tottenham should sign Craig Bellamy. I disagree. I think it should be Arsenal or Arsenal.
Nicky Adams hopes he will have another chance to prove himself at Leicester City following the arrival of new manager Paolo Sousa. He has some very positive words to say about his new manager – but then he would do, wouldn’t he?
Millwall’s Steve Morison is expected to be called into Wales’ squad for their Euro 2012 qualifier away to Montenegro.
Welsh Player Transfer Rumours 16th July
Craig Bellamy will join Tottenham Hotspur for £6 million – or so the papers say. Again. And they might even be right this time as Manchester City have just signed David Silva. Football Fan Cast tells Craig where to go.
Ryan Giggs might not be a one-club man for much longer. He could be off to America. But the Sun will say anything.
Congratukations to Dave Edwards who has become a father for the first time. Dave feels he is over his injury problems and he’s sure he can regain his place in Wolverhampton Wanderers’ team.
Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderrs and Newcastle United are all interested in signing David Jones from Wolverhampton Wanderers. But manager Mick McCarthy doesn’t think he’s going anywhere.
Cardiff City’s Anthony Gerrard (who has a cousin who plays for Liverpool) talks about the chemistry between him and Darcy Blake.
Boaz Myhill says he’s staying with Hull City. That’s what they all say when they’re just about to leave. (I do believe Bo though.)
Kerry Morgan has fractured a bone in his foot and will miss Swansea City’s next pre-season friendly – and one would guess a few other matches too.
Oldham Athletic have told Joe Jacobson he can look for a new club.
Rhys Taylor seems to like it in Crewe – he wants to stay for the whole season. Well if I had the choice of Crewe or Chelsea, I'd want to be at Crewe too.
Stuart Fleetwood is looking forward to playing for Hereford United again.
Cardiff City fans have sent Joe Ledley hate mail following his move to Celtic. Leave him alone, it’s not like he went to Swansea (not that it would be okay to send hate mail if he had).
Ryan Giggs might not be a one-club man for much longer. He could be off to America. But the Sun will say anything.
Congratukations to Dave Edwards who has become a father for the first time. Dave feels he is over his injury problems and he’s sure he can regain his place in Wolverhampton Wanderers’ team.
Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderrs and Newcastle United are all interested in signing David Jones from Wolverhampton Wanderers. But manager Mick McCarthy doesn’t think he’s going anywhere.
Cardiff City’s Anthony Gerrard (who has a cousin who plays for Liverpool) talks about the chemistry between him and Darcy Blake.
Boaz Myhill says he’s staying with Hull City. That’s what they all say when they’re just about to leave. (I do believe Bo though.)
Kerry Morgan has fractured a bone in his foot and will miss Swansea City’s next pre-season friendly – and one would guess a few other matches too.
Oldham Athletic have told Joe Jacobson he can look for a new club.
Rhys Taylor seems to like it in Crewe – he wants to stay for the whole season. Well if I had the choice of Crewe or Chelsea, I'd want to be at Crewe too.
Stuart Fleetwood is looking forward to playing for Hereford United again.
Cardiff City fans have sent Joe Ledley hate mail following his move to Celtic. Leave him alone, it’s not like he went to Swansea (not that it would be okay to send hate mail if he had).
Welsh Player News (Players on Trial)
Colchester United manager John Ward will make a decision this week on whether or not to keep any of his three trialists – one of whom is former Southampton midfielder Lloyd James. Lloyd played 45 minutes for Colchester in their 2-0 win over Dover Athletic and ever so nearly scored from a free kick. Lloyd said he would jump at the chance to join Colchester permanently.
Matthew Tipton is on trial at Bradford City. He was released by Macclesfield Town at the end of last season.
Trialists Garyn Preen played the whole of the second half in Burton Albion’s 2-1 win over Ilkeston Town. Burton manager Paul Peschisolido says he was impressed by all his trialists.
Josh Klein-Davies was one of seven players offered a trial at Cheltenham Town. Following a 0-0 draw with Leamington, he’s now one of four who remain in with a chance of signing for the club permanently. It’s a bit like Big Brother. Josh's goal against Cirencester can only help.
Trialist Will Richards impressed AFC Telford manager Andy Sinton in a late run-out as AFC Telford lost 2-0 to The New Saints. His chances of being signed look pretty good.
Jonathan North, who was released by Watford this summer, is on trial with Beaconsfield.
Lewis Price has joined Crystal Palace on trial. He was released by Derby County at the end of last season after spending the whole season with Brentford, mostly not playing.
Matthew Tipton is on trial at Bradford City. He was released by Macclesfield Town at the end of last season.
Trialists Garyn Preen played the whole of the second half in Burton Albion’s 2-1 win over Ilkeston Town. Burton manager Paul Peschisolido says he was impressed by all his trialists.
Josh Klein-Davies was one of seven players offered a trial at Cheltenham Town. Following a 0-0 draw with Leamington, he’s now one of four who remain in with a chance of signing for the club permanently. It’s a bit like Big Brother. Josh's goal against Cirencester can only help.
Trialist Will Richards impressed AFC Telford manager Andy Sinton in a late run-out as AFC Telford lost 2-0 to The New Saints. His chances of being signed look pretty good.
Jonathan North, who was released by Watford this summer, is on trial with Beaconsfield.
Lewis Price has joined Crystal Palace on trial. He was released by Derby County at the end of last season after spending the whole season with Brentford, mostly not playing.
Welsh Player News - New Signings
Arron Davies has signed for Peterborough United. He was released from Nottingham Forest in December and wanted to sign for Yeovil Town but as he’s already played for Forest and on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion, he was unable to sign for them and instead signed non-contract terms at Brighton before being sent on loan to Yeovil. But instead of signing for Yeovil, Arron decided to go to a training camp with Peterborough – and you can only assume he had a pretty good time. He has signed a two-year contract.
Joe Ledley is now a Celtic player. As Celtic are outside the English league system, Cardiff City don’t get any compensation. I bet they’re just thrilled, especially considering their financial problems. Before the signing was even announced, Joe was named in Celtic’s squad for their tour of North America. Cardiff City manager Dave Jones was surprised by Joe’s choice. That makes at least two of us. I blame Craig Bellamy.
Goalkeeper Glyn Garner has signed for newly-promoted Blue Square Premier side Newport County.
Joe Ledley is now a Celtic player. As Celtic are outside the English league system, Cardiff City don’t get any compensation. I bet they’re just thrilled, especially considering their financial problems. Before the signing was even announced, Joe was named in Celtic’s squad for their tour of North America. Cardiff City manager Dave Jones was surprised by Joe’s choice. That makes at least two of us. I blame Craig Bellamy.
Goalkeeper Glyn Garner has signed for newly-promoted Blue Square Premier side Newport County.
Friday, 9 July 2010
Welsh Player News 9th July ( Leagues 1 and 2)
Bristol Rovers’ Byron Anthony thinks having a defender as his new manager will help the team defensively.
Carlisle United manager Greg Abbott expects new signing Jason Price to score 12-15 goals next season. I hope he will but if it doesn’t it could be his team-mates fault rather than his.
Carl Fletcher is happy with the appointment of Peter Reid as his new manager at Plymouth Argyle. He says Plymouth need a man with experience. Don’t we all need one of those.
Lewis Haldane is likely to miss Port Vale’s friendly matches due to an insect bite. It’s a lot more serious than it sounds, it really is.
Carlisle United manager Greg Abbott expects new signing Jason Price to score 12-15 goals next season. I hope he will but if it doesn’t it could be his team-mates fault rather than his.
Carl Fletcher is happy with the appointment of Peter Reid as his new manager at Plymouth Argyle. He says Plymouth need a man with experience. Don’t we all need one of those.
Lewis Haldane is likely to miss Port Vale’s friendly matches due to an insect bite. It’s a lot more serious than it sounds, it really is.
Welsh Player News 9th July (Championship)
Christian Ribeiro has a back injury and is likely to be out for a while for Bristol City. His manager blames Wales but I don’t. James Wilson (knee) will also be out for a while but that’s not Wales’ fault.
John Oster believes that Doncaster Rovers will do even better next season. Brian Stock thinks it won’t be that easy. I think I’m on Brian’s side in this but John should feel free to prove us wrong.
Rhys Williams will not be ready for the start of Middlesbrough’s second season in the Championship.
Steve Claridge expects Steve Morison to do well for Millwall in the Championship next season.
Paul Parry expects to be playing through the pain for the rest of his career – but at least he can get back on the training pitches for Preston North End again.
Joe Allen has spoken about the loss of friend and team-mate Besian Idrizaj. RIP.
Wrexham’s Kristian O’Leary thinks that former team-mate Neil Taylor will do well at Swansea City. At the very least, no-one will be able to tease me about having a Wrexham player in my international team. Neil says he talked to Swansea players including Joe Allen, Shaun MacDonald, Jazz Richards, David Cornell, Casey Thomas, David Cotterill and Ashley Williams when deciding whether to make the move.
John Oster believes that Doncaster Rovers will do even better next season. Brian Stock thinks it won’t be that easy. I think I’m on Brian’s side in this but John should feel free to prove us wrong.
Rhys Williams will not be ready for the start of Middlesbrough’s second season in the Championship.
Steve Claridge expects Steve Morison to do well for Millwall in the Championship next season.
Paul Parry expects to be playing through the pain for the rest of his career – but at least he can get back on the training pitches for Preston North End again.
Joe Allen has spoken about the loss of friend and team-mate Besian Idrizaj. RIP.
Wrexham’s Kristian O’Leary thinks that former team-mate Neil Taylor will do well at Swansea City. At the very least, no-one will be able to tease me about having a Wrexham player in my international team. Neil says he talked to Swansea players including Joe Allen, Shaun MacDonald, Jazz Richards, David Cornell, Casey Thomas, David Cotterill and Ashley Williams when deciding whether to make the move.
Welsh Player News 9th July (Premier League)
Jason Brown was mentioned by at least one Blackburn Rovers fan when they were asked to name the Save of the Season by a Blackburn goalkeeper.
Simon Davies has apparently warned Liverpool players that they’re going to be bored with new manager Roy Hodgson’s training methods – but it’s worth the effort. If I were him I'd have kept quiet and let the Liverpool players suffer.
Gareth Bale and Michael Owen star in the new Sky Sports/BT ad.
Poor Owen Hargreaves. He thought he was okay now but a new injury setback means he won’t be fit for the start of the new season. Life is unfair sometimes.
Stoke City’s Ryan Shawcross wants to show Fabio Capello he made a big mistake by leaving him out of the World Cup squad. And no, unfortunately I don’t think it involves helping Wales to thrash England in the qualifiers but good luck to him.
Simon Davies has apparently warned Liverpool players that they’re going to be bored with new manager Roy Hodgson’s training methods – but it’s worth the effort. If I were him I'd have kept quiet and let the Liverpool players suffer.
Gareth Bale and Michael Owen star in the new Sky Sports/BT ad.
Poor Owen Hargreaves. He thought he was okay now but a new injury setback means he won’t be fit for the start of the new season. Life is unfair sometimes.
Stoke City’s Ryan Shawcross wants to show Fabio Capello he made a big mistake by leaving him out of the World Cup squad. And no, unfortunately I don’t think it involves helping Wales to thrash England in the qualifiers but good luck to him.
Welsh Player Transfer Rumours (Part 2)
The good news is that Charlton Athletic’s Grant Basey was sufficiently recovered from an ankle injury to return for pre-season training. The bad news is he doesn't actually have a contract but I’m sure Charlton know how to put that right.
Stockport County goalkeeper Owain fon Williams has been reported to be available on a free transfer but Stockport say this is, well, bollocks..
Stockport County goalkeeper Owain fon Williams has been reported to be available on a free transfer but Stockport say this is, well, bollocks..
Welsh Player Transfer Rumours
Arsenal’s Sanchez Watt could return to Leeds United on loan. Having sold their star striker, Leeds now seem to be a bit short in the striker department. Funny that.
Rob Edwards has returned to training for Blackpool despite not actually having a contract with them. He has however been offered one so let’s wait and see if he accepts.
Stoke City bid £8m for Joe Ledley last season – and they now want him on the cheap. Well he is out of contract so they would only have to pay compensation… Tony Pulis is hoping to swap Joe for Michael Tonge but it looks like Joe is heading for Celtic instead.
Gareth Bale would like clubless Joe Cole to become his team-mate at Tottenham Hotspur – even though Cole will be after his left wing spot.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_6241861,00.html
Although if Rafa Benitez has his way, Gareth’s team-mates will be Inter Milan players. Gareth isn’t keen though.
Tottenham apparently want Craig Bellamy again but this is hardly news, it would be more surprising if a week went by without this rumour appearing.
Bristol City’s Gavin Williams has been linked with a return to Hereford United but he says it’s just the papers writing rubbish as usual. Well maybe those weren’t his exact words.
Boaz Myhill could be the next Hull City player to depart. Tottenham, West Brom and Fulham are interested.
Leicester City owner Milan Mandaric says the club won’t be selling Andy King. If Andy were a manager I'd be taking this as news of his impending sacking.
John Hartson is interested in managing Swansea City. Former Swansea boss Paolo Sousa has left Swansea for Leicester and as a Cardiff girl I can’t really blame him. Gary Speed is also a contender for the job.
Ashley Williams has been linked with Stoke City and Celtic – either way he could end up playing with former Cardiff City midfielder Joe Ledley for club as well as country.
Rob Edwards has returned to training for Blackpool despite not actually having a contract with them. He has however been offered one so let’s wait and see if he accepts.
Stoke City bid £8m for Joe Ledley last season – and they now want him on the cheap. Well he is out of contract so they would only have to pay compensation… Tony Pulis is hoping to swap Joe for Michael Tonge but it looks like Joe is heading for Celtic instead.
Gareth Bale would like clubless Joe Cole to become his team-mate at Tottenham Hotspur – even though Cole will be after his left wing spot.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_6241861,00.html
Although if Rafa Benitez has his way, Gareth’s team-mates will be Inter Milan players. Gareth isn’t keen though.
Tottenham apparently want Craig Bellamy again but this is hardly news, it would be more surprising if a week went by without this rumour appearing.
Bristol City’s Gavin Williams has been linked with a return to Hereford United but he says it’s just the papers writing rubbish as usual. Well maybe those weren’t his exact words.
Boaz Myhill could be the next Hull City player to depart. Tottenham, West Brom and Fulham are interested.
Leicester City owner Milan Mandaric says the club won’t be selling Andy King. If Andy were a manager I'd be taking this as news of his impending sacking.
John Hartson is interested in managing Swansea City. Former Swansea boss Paolo Sousa has left Swansea for Leicester and as a Cardiff girl I can’t really blame him. Gary Speed is also a contender for the job.
Ashley Williams has been linked with Stoke City and Celtic – either way he could end up playing with former Cardiff City midfielder Joe Ledley for club as well as country.
Welsh Player News (Players on Trial)
Lloyd James, who was released by Southampton at the end of last season, is now training with Colchester United.
Arron Davies was expected to sign for Yeovil Town next season – he would have signed for them in January if the rules had allowed for it. But it seems he could be joining Peterborough United instead – Arron has travelled to Portugal with the Peterborough squad.
Garyn Preen is on trial at Burton Albion after being released by Southampton at the end of last season.
Josh Klein-Davies is on trial at Cheltenham Town. He spent last season with Weston-super-mare.
Peter Gilbert has left Northampton Town after his manager decided he’d just had enough. Peter had agreed a new contract but hadn’t signed it and Ian Sampson thought he was holding out for a better offer so he said fine, piss off and get a better offer, we don’t want you here. Which was a bit mean of him but there you go. Southend United jumped at the chance to sign someone decent.and Peter is expected to sign for them after their transfer embargo has been lifted. Technically Peter isn't on trial as such but neither is he officially a Southend player.
Will Richards, who was released by Shrewsbury Town when I wasn't looking, is on trial with AFC Telford.
Arron Davies was expected to sign for Yeovil Town next season – he would have signed for them in January if the rules had allowed for it. But it seems he could be joining Peterborough United instead – Arron has travelled to Portugal with the Peterborough squad.
Garyn Preen is on trial at Burton Albion after being released by Southampton at the end of last season.
Josh Klein-Davies is on trial at Cheltenham Town. He spent last season with Weston-super-mare.
Peter Gilbert has left Northampton Town after his manager decided he’d just had enough. Peter had agreed a new contract but hadn’t signed it and Ian Sampson thought he was holding out for a better offer so he said fine, piss off and get a better offer, we don’t want you here. Which was a bit mean of him but there you go. Southend United jumped at the chance to sign someone decent.and Peter is expected to sign for them after their transfer embargo has been lifted. Technically Peter isn't on trial as such but neither is he officially a Southend player.
Will Richards, who was released by Shrewsbury Town when I wasn't looking, is on trial with AFC Telford.
Welsh Player News Completed Transfers 9th July (Part Two)
Daniel Nardiello has signed for Exeter City following his release from Premier League new boys Blackpool. He hopes his injury problems are now over so let’s keep our fingers crossed for him.
Not long ago, Craig Davies said he wanted to stay with Brighton & Hove Albion< and fight his way into the first team. Clearly that was before Chesterfield showed an interest as he is now a Chesterfield player.
Crewe Alexandra and Chelsea have finally got themselves sorted which means Rhys Taylor will be playing on loan at Crewe for at least two months.
Hereford United have signed Stuart Fleetwood from Charlton. Stuart spent some of last season on loan at Exeter City but opportunities were limited there and Hereford is right next to Wales.
Sam Wedgbury has joined Macclesfield Town. He was released by Sheffield United at the end of last season but they also sold David Cotterill so they obviously don’t know what they’re doing.
Mark Bradley, who was released by Walsall at the end of last season, has now joined Rotherham United. Shrewsbury Town were also interested. Mark’s new manager Ronnie Moore is very excited about his new signing but he thinks Mark needs to score more often. Well I’m sure even Rotherham has a nightclub or two.
Norwich City’s David Stephens was already to sign for Lincoln City but he got cold feet. So he’s now decided to play somewhere which is probably colder than Lincoln: Hibernian. However at Hibs he is likey to have first-team football – which will help him to break into the senior Wales squad.
Not long ago, Craig Davies said he wanted to stay with Brighton & Hove Albion< and fight his way into the first team. Clearly that was before Chesterfield showed an interest as he is now a Chesterfield player.
Crewe Alexandra and Chelsea have finally got themselves sorted which means Rhys Taylor will be playing on loan at Crewe for at least two months.
Hereford United have signed Stuart Fleetwood from Charlton. Stuart spent some of last season on loan at Exeter City but opportunities were limited there and Hereford is right next to Wales.
Sam Wedgbury has joined Macclesfield Town. He was released by Sheffield United at the end of last season but they also sold David Cotterill so they obviously don’t know what they’re doing.
Mark Bradley, who was released by Walsall at the end of last season, has now joined Rotherham United. Shrewsbury Town were also interested. Mark’s new manager Ronnie Moore is very excited about his new signing but he thinks Mark needs to score more often. Well I’m sure even Rotherham has a nightclub or two.
Norwich City’s David Stephens was already to sign for Lincoln City but he got cold feet. So he’s now decided to play somewhere which is probably colder than Lincoln: Hibernian. However at Hibs he is likey to have first-team football – which will help him to break into the senior Wales squad.
Welsh Player News Completed Transfers 9th July (Part One)
Wayne Hennessey has signed a new five-year contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Presumably this means Liverpool will have to look elsewhere.
Andy Dorman has signed for Crystal Palace on a free transfer. He has signed a three-year deal with his new club. Andy was offered a new contract with St Mirren but he said a while ago that playing in the English league system should increase his chances of playing for Wales. That’s what we like to see, a bit of enthusiasm.
Troy Brown has signed a new one-year deal with Ipswich Town.
Nicky Adams has rejected a move to Brentford, instead opting to stay at Leicester City. Paolo Sousa is Leicester’s new manager and Nicky hopes he might impress him. He seemed to get on okay with the Welsh players at Swansea City.
Peterborough United have sold defender Craig Morgan to Preston North End, who are now managed by former Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson.
Andy Dorman has signed for Crystal Palace on a free transfer. He has signed a three-year deal with his new club. Andy was offered a new contract with St Mirren but he said a while ago that playing in the English league system should increase his chances of playing for Wales. That’s what we like to see, a bit of enthusiasm.
Troy Brown has signed a new one-year deal with Ipswich Town.
Nicky Adams has rejected a move to Brentford, instead opting to stay at Leicester City. Paolo Sousa is Leicester’s new manager and Nicky hopes he might impress him. He seemed to get on okay with the Welsh players at Swansea City.
Peterborough United have sold defender Craig Morgan to Preston North End, who are now managed by former Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson.
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