Blackpool would like to sign Aaron Ramsey on loan. And who can blame then for trying? They got into the Premier League, they did the double over Liverpool, they know all about making the impossible happen.
Manchester City would like to buy Gareth Bale in the summer, if Tottenham Hotspur are interested in selling him but I don’t think even Tottenham are that stupid.
Danny Gabbidon could be returning to Cardiff City after failing to agree a new contract with West Ham United.
Derby County manager Nigel Clough is hoping to sign Ben Davies from Notts County this month. He could replace Robbie Savage, who is interested in a move to Vancouver.
Joe Allen has been attracting interest from Premier League clubs but his agent says he will be staying at Swansea City and hopes to sign a new contract soon.
Jermaine Easter has left loan club Swansea City early after being recalled by parent club Milton Keynes Dons. Jermaine was interested in signing for Swansea permanently and Crystal Palace are also said to have shown an interest.
Rotherham United have said Mark Bradley can go out on loan after struggling to get into the matchday squad.
John Hartson could become the new manager of Newport County. Gary Speed thinks John would do a great job.
Showing posts with label john hartson. Show all posts
Showing posts with label john hartson. Show all posts
Friday, 14 January 2011
Tuesday, 14 December 2010
Gary Speed appointed Wales' new manager
To begin with, Gary Speed wasn't even interested. He'd only recently been appointed manager of Sheffield United although he'd been with the club for a number of years, first as a player and then as a coach.
But when Ryan Giggs yet again turned down the chance to become Wales' manager, the Welsh FA turned to an inexperienced manager whose club are near the bottom of the Championship.
A number of people are believed to have applied for the job. Brian Flynn, the caretaker-manager of Wales for their two most recent matches, was the choice of the players and was interested in remaining in the job. Chris Coleman and John Hartson were also thought to have been very keen. Chris was the most experienced Welsh candidate while John had none at all. Lars Lagerback was also interviewed for the position whilst other managers linked with the job included Martin O'Neill.
But it seemed FA Wales were looking for a star rather than an experienced manager and, after holding interviews, they made the decision to approach Gary Speed - and he accepted their offer to become manager of Wales.
It's true he's a Welsh legend and he could inspire the players, as no doubt Ryan Giggs would have done - and although his managerial track record is not particularly good, he does have experience as a coach. The younger Welsh internationals (which to be fair is most of them) will remember him as a star. He's just not that experienced or that successful as a manager and that could turn out to be a disadvantage.
I really hope it works out for Gary and he has my full support. I hope the unsuccessful candidates won't be too disappointed. Brian Flynn certainly has reason to be, although he clearly loves working with and developing young players and there will be more opportunities for him to do this at under-21 level and lower. Chris Coleman has also been offered another job but he'd decided not to accept it until he knew whether or not he's got the Welsh job. It looks like he'll be managing Greek side Larissa then.
As for Wales, we have a Welsh manager who loves his country. That's not something every country can claim.
Gary Speed's career in pictures.
Gary says he has taken a pay cut in order to manage Wales. It's always good finding people like that in the world of football.
Gary says one of his first jobs will be to try to coax Welsh players out of international retirement. That might actually be a harder job than beating England but some of those players could well be his friends so maybe he can do it.
Gary says Wales have nothing to lose. Well, we can lose the rest of the games which would also mean finishing bottom of the group but I do see what he means.
Former Wales manager Mark Hughes, who was linked with a return to the role, believes Gary will do a great job.
But when Ryan Giggs yet again turned down the chance to become Wales' manager, the Welsh FA turned to an inexperienced manager whose club are near the bottom of the Championship.
A number of people are believed to have applied for the job. Brian Flynn, the caretaker-manager of Wales for their two most recent matches, was the choice of the players and was interested in remaining in the job. Chris Coleman and John Hartson were also thought to have been very keen. Chris was the most experienced Welsh candidate while John had none at all. Lars Lagerback was also interviewed for the position whilst other managers linked with the job included Martin O'Neill.
But it seemed FA Wales were looking for a star rather than an experienced manager and, after holding interviews, they made the decision to approach Gary Speed - and he accepted their offer to become manager of Wales.
It's true he's a Welsh legend and he could inspire the players, as no doubt Ryan Giggs would have done - and although his managerial track record is not particularly good, he does have experience as a coach. The younger Welsh internationals (which to be fair is most of them) will remember him as a star. He's just not that experienced or that successful as a manager and that could turn out to be a disadvantage.
I really hope it works out for Gary and he has my full support. I hope the unsuccessful candidates won't be too disappointed. Brian Flynn certainly has reason to be, although he clearly loves working with and developing young players and there will be more opportunities for him to do this at under-21 level and lower. Chris Coleman has also been offered another job but he'd decided not to accept it until he knew whether or not he's got the Welsh job. It looks like he'll be managing Greek side Larissa then.
As for Wales, we have a Welsh manager who loves his country. That's not something every country can claim.
Gary Speed's career in pictures.
Gary says he has taken a pay cut in order to manage Wales. It's always good finding people like that in the world of football.
Gary says one of his first jobs will be to try to coax Welsh players out of international retirement. That might actually be a harder job than beating England but some of those players could well be his friends so maybe he can do it.
Gary says Wales have nothing to lose. Well, we can lose the rest of the games which would also mean finishing bottom of the group but I do see what he means.
Former Wales manager Mark Hughes, who was linked with a return to the role, believes Gary will do a great job.
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Wales manager news 16th November 2010
Brian Flynn is hoping he’ll be able to stay in the role after becoming caretaker managers for the qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland (which didn't go quite as I'd hoped).
Brian, John Hartson, Ian Rush, Chris Coleman, Dean Saunders, Brian Kerr, Lawrie Sanchez, Lars Lagerback and Terry Venables are said to be on a shortlist of candidates to become manager of Wales. I really hope it’s one of the ones in bold. If any of the others have Welsh blood, if they have or have had eligibility to play for Wales, I’d be very happy for them to become manager of Wales. But I really want a manager who is part of the national identity of Wales. Someone who supports Wales.
Read more about the candidates.
FA Wales wanted Ryan Giggs but he doesn’t want the job just yet. Martin O’Neill is said to be their second choice (even though he’s not on the shortlist) but James Collins would have something to say about that if the champagne bottle rumours are true.
Ian Rush would love the job but he won’t say whether he’s applied or not.
Brian, John Hartson, Ian Rush, Chris Coleman, Dean Saunders, Brian Kerr, Lawrie Sanchez, Lars Lagerback and Terry Venables are said to be on a shortlist of candidates to become manager of Wales. I really hope it’s one of the ones in bold. If any of the others have Welsh blood, if they have or have had eligibility to play for Wales, I’d be very happy for them to become manager of Wales. But I really want a manager who is part of the national identity of Wales. Someone who supports Wales.
Read more about the candidates.
FA Wales wanted Ryan Giggs but he doesn’t want the job just yet. Martin O’Neill is said to be their second choice (even though he’s not on the shortlist) but James Collins would have something to say about that if the champagne bottle rumours are true.
Ian Rush would love the job but he won’t say whether he’s applied or not.
Friday, 15 October 2010
Welsh Player News 15th October 2010
The Football Assiciation of Wales will hold a conference today to discuss who should take charga of their country next. Welshman Ian Rush, Chris Coleman and John Hartson are among Brian Flynn’s rivals. The new manager will be named by December 1st.
A Daily Post writer feels Brian Flynn got the tactics wrong against Bulgaria and Switzerland. I hate to say it but I think he’s got a point (unlike Wales). However I don’t agree that Wales had no chance of winning against Bulgaria and Switzerland. Northampton Town beat Liverpool after all.
Brian Flynn would like to become Wales’ permanent manager but he doesn’t think he needs to make any big changes to the side.
Gareth Bale and Ashley Williams believe Brian should be offered the Wales job.
Having all but giving up on his own wish to play for Wales again, Robbie Savage is now putting in a good word for Ryan Giggs.
Shaun MacDonald says he was proud to make his Wales debut against Switzerland. The Swansea City midfielder, now on loan at Yeovil Town, has made a record number of appearances for the Wales under-21s but hadn’t appeared for the senior squad until Tuesday. Yeovil manager Terry Skiverton was also delighted for him.
Darcy Blake was also very happy to make his Wales debut, particularly now Brian Flynn is the manager. Brian has played a big part in helping Darcy to progress from the under-17 side to the senior squad and Darcy hopes he’s offered the job of Wales manager permanently and he feels Wales will soon start to get the right results.
Christian Ribeiro's second international cap left him with mixed feelings.
Gareth Bale hopes Wales will beat England next year and believes it could happen. Me too, Gareth!
Danny Collins hopes to be in the squad to face England.
The return of Aaron Ramsey from injury could provide Wales with the boost they need to get one over on England.
The Daily Post North Wales looks at the difficulties of attending a Wales match. I don’t really see the problem of internationals always being held in South Wales, England matches are always held in Wembley and I’ve never heard people from the north of England complaining (well, not about Wembley anyway) but the article does make a very good point about how difficult it is for people with jobs and/or children to get to a Friday night match.
I don’t think the writer’s children will necessarily be put off supporting Wales though. I grew up in England but while I am more Arsenal than Cardiff City, I certainly don’t feel any love for the England team. If Theo Walcott scores a hat-trick against Wales I’ll be in a mood with him for weeks. Unless, of course, Aaron Ramsey scores four.
A Daily Post writer feels Brian Flynn got the tactics wrong against Bulgaria and Switzerland. I hate to say it but I think he’s got a point (unlike Wales). However I don’t agree that Wales had no chance of winning against Bulgaria and Switzerland. Northampton Town beat Liverpool after all.
Brian Flynn would like to become Wales’ permanent manager but he doesn’t think he needs to make any big changes to the side.
Gareth Bale and Ashley Williams believe Brian should be offered the Wales job.
Having all but giving up on his own wish to play for Wales again, Robbie Savage is now putting in a good word for Ryan Giggs.
Shaun MacDonald says he was proud to make his Wales debut against Switzerland. The Swansea City midfielder, now on loan at Yeovil Town, has made a record number of appearances for the Wales under-21s but hadn’t appeared for the senior squad until Tuesday. Yeovil manager Terry Skiverton was also delighted for him.
Darcy Blake was also very happy to make his Wales debut, particularly now Brian Flynn is the manager. Brian has played a big part in helping Darcy to progress from the under-17 side to the senior squad and Darcy hopes he’s offered the job of Wales manager permanently and he feels Wales will soon start to get the right results.
Christian Ribeiro's second international cap left him with mixed feelings.
Gareth Bale hopes Wales will beat England next year and believes it could happen. Me too, Gareth!
Danny Collins hopes to be in the squad to face England.
The return of Aaron Ramsey from injury could provide Wales with the boost they need to get one over on England.
The Daily Post North Wales looks at the difficulties of attending a Wales match. I don’t really see the problem of internationals always being held in South Wales, England matches are always held in Wembley and I’ve never heard people from the north of England complaining (well, not about Wembley anyway) but the article does make a very good point about how difficult it is for people with jobs and/or children to get to a Friday night match.
I don’t think the writer’s children will necessarily be put off supporting Wales though. I grew up in England but while I am more Arsenal than Cardiff City, I certainly don’t feel any love for the England team. If Theo Walcott scores a hat-trick against Wales I’ll be in a mood with him for weeks. Unless, of course, Aaron Ramsey scores four.
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
Switzerland v Wales News 12th October 2010
Goalkeepers: Jonathan Bond (Watford), David Cornell (Swansea City), Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Boaz Myhill (West Bromwich Albion)
Defenders: Darcy Blake (Cardiff City), Danny Collins (Stoke City), James Collins (Aston Villa), Adam Matthews (Cardiff City), Craig Morgan (Preston), Christian Ribeiro (Bristol City), Neil Taylor (Swansea City), Rhoys Wiggins (AFC Bournemouth), Ashley Williams (Swansea City)
Midfielders: Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur), Andrew Crofts (Norwich City), Dave Edwards (Wolves), Andy King (Leicester), Shaun MacDonald (Yeovil Town, on loan from Swansea City), Jazz Richards (Swansea City), David Vaughan (Blackpool)
Forwards: Simon Church (Reading), Ryan Doble (Southampton), Steve Morison (Millwall)
No more injuries to report although Ashley Williams still seems to be a slight doubt with an ankle injury.
Various reports suggest the following players will start for Wales:
Wayne Hennessey
Darcy Blake, James Collins, Ashley Williams, Danny Collins
Dave Edwards, Andy King, Shaun MacDonald, David Vaughan, Gareth Bale
Steve Morison
Subs: Boaz Myhill, Adam Matthews, Craig Morgan, Andrew Crofts, Jazz Richards, Simon Church, Ryan Doble
Other squad members: Jonathan Bond, David Cornell, Christian Ribeiro, Neil Taylor,Rhoys Wiggins, Jazz Richards
Possible alternatives:
Craig Morgan to replace Ashley Williams if he’s not fit. If Ashley isn’t fit enough for the bench, Christian Ribeiro and Jazz Richards are options to cover the centre back positions.
Simon Church to take Steve Morison’s place up front with Steve dropping to the bench.
Happy Birthday to Brian Flynn, who is 55 today. I hope the Wales boys have a nice present in store for him this evening.
Brian Flynn says Darcy Blake will make his Wales debut tonight not just because the other right backs are suspended but because he deserves it – although Adam Matthews will be heartened to learn there’s not much between them in terms of ability. Christian Ribeiro might prefer not to read this article. He doesn’t get a mention at all although maybe Brian sees him more as a centre back cover..
Despite reports yesterday that Steve Morison would start up front for Wales, The Sun believes Steve will be dropped in favour of Simon Church. And the Sun are just so reliable. But that doesn't mean it isn't true.
Ashley Williams says the defeat to Bulgaria was one of the most disappointing results he has ever experienced as a player but Brian Flynn managed to cheer him up.
James Collins says that, as the most experienced member of Wales’ squad, he must lead by example on the pitch tonight.
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe is delighted that Rhoys Wiggins has been called up into the full Wales squad. I wonder if he’d have been quite as thrilled if Bournemouth had a match tonight.
John Hartson is still hoping he might be appointed manager of Wales. I’m actually kind of hoping he doesn’t. His best chance of getting the job is if Wales lose and I really don’t want that to happen.
Ruud Gullit could be one of John's rivals for the position but only if he’s offered the job.
Defenders: Darcy Blake (Cardiff City), Danny Collins (Stoke City), James Collins (Aston Villa), Adam Matthews (Cardiff City), Craig Morgan (Preston), Christian Ribeiro (Bristol City), Neil Taylor (Swansea City), Rhoys Wiggins (AFC Bournemouth), Ashley Williams (Swansea City)
Midfielders: Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur), Andrew Crofts (Norwich City), Dave Edwards (Wolves), Andy King (Leicester), Shaun MacDonald (Yeovil Town, on loan from Swansea City), Jazz Richards (Swansea City), David Vaughan (Blackpool)
Forwards: Simon Church (Reading), Ryan Doble (Southampton), Steve Morison (Millwall)
No more injuries to report although Ashley Williams still seems to be a slight doubt with an ankle injury.
Various reports suggest the following players will start for Wales:
Wayne Hennessey
Darcy Blake, James Collins, Ashley Williams, Danny Collins
Dave Edwards, Andy King, Shaun MacDonald, David Vaughan, Gareth Bale
Steve Morison
Subs: Boaz Myhill, Adam Matthews, Craig Morgan, Andrew Crofts, Jazz Richards, Simon Church, Ryan Doble
Other squad members: Jonathan Bond, David Cornell, Christian Ribeiro, Neil Taylor,Rhoys Wiggins, Jazz Richards
Possible alternatives:
Craig Morgan to replace Ashley Williams if he’s not fit. If Ashley isn’t fit enough for the bench, Christian Ribeiro and Jazz Richards are options to cover the centre back positions.
Simon Church to take Steve Morison’s place up front with Steve dropping to the bench.
Happy Birthday to Brian Flynn, who is 55 today. I hope the Wales boys have a nice present in store for him this evening.
Brian Flynn says Darcy Blake will make his Wales debut tonight not just because the other right backs are suspended but because he deserves it – although Adam Matthews will be heartened to learn there’s not much between them in terms of ability. Christian Ribeiro might prefer not to read this article. He doesn’t get a mention at all although maybe Brian sees him more as a centre back cover..
Despite reports yesterday that Steve Morison would start up front for Wales, The Sun believes Steve will be dropped in favour of Simon Church. And the Sun are just so reliable. But that doesn't mean it isn't true.
Ashley Williams says the defeat to Bulgaria was one of the most disappointing results he has ever experienced as a player but Brian Flynn managed to cheer him up.
James Collins says that, as the most experienced member of Wales’ squad, he must lead by example on the pitch tonight.
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe is delighted that Rhoys Wiggins has been called up into the full Wales squad. I wonder if he’d have been quite as thrilled if Bournemouth had a match tonight.
John Hartson is still hoping he might be appointed manager of Wales. I’m actually kind of hoping he doesn’t. His best chance of getting the job is if Wales lose and I really don’t want that to happen.
Ruud Gullit could be one of John's rivals for the position but only if he’s offered the job.
Friday, 8 October 2010
Wales v Bulgaria/Switzerland v Wales News 8th October
Ashley Williams is delighted to be Wales’ captain.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/10/07/SOCCER_Wales_Williams.html&TEAMHD=soccer
Cardiff City manager Dave Jones says Darcy Blake is ready to make his mark as a senior Wales international – despite the fact he wasn’t in the original squad.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/07/bluebirds-blake-ready-to-state-wales-case-says-dave-jones-91466-27418929/
Steve Morison is looking forward to Wales’ qualifiers.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/millwall/8048899/Morison-relishing-Wales-qualifiers.html
Simon Church hopes to take advantage of Craig Bellamy’s absence and score a few goals for his country.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/07/church-prayers-answered-as-he-aims-to-fill-bellamy-void-for-wales-91466-27418931/
Brian Flynn agrees Wales can manage without Craig.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/oct/07/walesfootballteam-euro2012
Joe Allen has asked the people of Wales to fill the stadium for the match against Bulgaria – and his team-mates to win for Brian Flynn.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/06/swansea-s-joe-allen-in-rallying-call-to-wales-fans-91466-27417829/
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wales-football-team/2010/10/07/joe-allen-urges-wales-to-do-it-for-brian-flynn-in-euro-2012-qualifier-against-bulgaria-55578-27419529/
Brian Flynn seems to have made a very good impression on the players - his training methods have got Sam Ricketts all excited.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_of_wales/9068253.stm
Sam warns Bolton Wanderers team-mate and Bulgaria international Martin Petrov that he’s in for a tough match when Bulgaria travel to the Cardiff City stadium.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/06/match-will-be-tough-ricketts-warns-team-mate-91466-27417136/
Sam is one of the senior players now.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/bolton-wanderers/8048591/Ricketts-takes-on-senior-role.html
Danny Collins is very happy to be back in the Wales squad.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/06/collins-happy-to-be-back-in-flynn-s-wales-fold-91466-27410235/
Danny explains why he couldn’t play for John Toshack again.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wales-football-team/2010/10/06/danny-collins-why-i-had-to-quit-wales-when-john-toshack-was-manager-55578-27410471/
Gareth Bale is enjoying life as an unjinxed footballer.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2010/10/06/good-life-for-gareth-bale-just-keeps-getting-better-91466-27410237/
Christian Ribeiro is hoping Brian Flynn will become the permanent manager of Wales.
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/sport/Ribeiro-wants-Wales-stick-Flynn/article-2732431-detail/article.html
Wales Online suggests that even if Danny Gabbidon hadn’t retired, he wouldn’t have started against Bulgaria and Switzerland. Even though he has been Wales’ best centre back since Kevin Ratcliffe.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/07/gabbidon-was-wales-best-since-ratcliffe-but-didn-t-last-test-of-time-91466-27418764/
If it doesn’t work out with Brian Flynn, John Hartson would love the chance to manager Wales.
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/1625/5/exclusive-hartson-i-want-wales-take-chance-me
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/10/07/SOCCER_Wales_Williams.html&TEAMHD=soccer
Cardiff City manager Dave Jones says Darcy Blake is ready to make his mark as a senior Wales international – despite the fact he wasn’t in the original squad.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/07/bluebirds-blake-ready-to-state-wales-case-says-dave-jones-91466-27418929/
Steve Morison is looking forward to Wales’ qualifiers.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/millwall/8048899/Morison-relishing-Wales-qualifiers.html
Simon Church hopes to take advantage of Craig Bellamy’s absence and score a few goals for his country.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/07/church-prayers-answered-as-he-aims-to-fill-bellamy-void-for-wales-91466-27418931/
Brian Flynn agrees Wales can manage without Craig.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/oct/07/walesfootballteam-euro2012
Joe Allen has asked the people of Wales to fill the stadium for the match against Bulgaria – and his team-mates to win for Brian Flynn.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/06/swansea-s-joe-allen-in-rallying-call-to-wales-fans-91466-27417829/
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wales-football-team/2010/10/07/joe-allen-urges-wales-to-do-it-for-brian-flynn-in-euro-2012-qualifier-against-bulgaria-55578-27419529/
Brian Flynn seems to have made a very good impression on the players - his training methods have got Sam Ricketts all excited.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_of_wales/9068253.stm
Sam warns Bolton Wanderers team-mate and Bulgaria international Martin Petrov that he’s in for a tough match when Bulgaria travel to the Cardiff City stadium.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/06/match-will-be-tough-ricketts-warns-team-mate-91466-27417136/
Sam is one of the senior players now.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/bolton-wanderers/8048591/Ricketts-takes-on-senior-role.html
Danny Collins is very happy to be back in the Wales squad.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/06/collins-happy-to-be-back-in-flynn-s-wales-fold-91466-27410235/
Danny explains why he couldn’t play for John Toshack again.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wales-football-team/2010/10/06/danny-collins-why-i-had-to-quit-wales-when-john-toshack-was-manager-55578-27410471/
Gareth Bale is enjoying life as an unjinxed footballer.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2010/10/06/good-life-for-gareth-bale-just-keeps-getting-better-91466-27410237/
Christian Ribeiro is hoping Brian Flynn will become the permanent manager of Wales.
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/sport/Ribeiro-wants-Wales-stick-Flynn/article-2732431-detail/article.html
Wales Online suggests that even if Danny Gabbidon hadn’t retired, he wouldn’t have started against Bulgaria and Switzerland. Even though he has been Wales’ best centre back since Kevin Ratcliffe.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2010/10/07/gabbidon-was-wales-best-since-ratcliffe-but-didn-t-last-test-of-time-91466-27418764/
If it doesn’t work out with Brian Flynn, John Hartson would love the chance to manager Wales.
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/1625/5/exclusive-hartson-i-want-wales-take-chance-me
Friday, 10 September 2010
John Toshack resigns by mutual consent... who will replace him?
As expected, John Toshack has resigned. What was a slight surprise was that he didn't want to leave straight away, that he would have been happy to stay with Wales until after the next two qualifiers have been played. FA Wales, however, had other ideas. The FA are now looking for a replacement... but he won't necessarily be Welsh.
Neville Southall says just one new manager might not be enough but if there is just one, it should be Brian Flynn.
Many of those linked with the post have ruled themselves out.
Kenny Jackett says he is flattered to be linked with such a big job but at the moment he's committed to keeping Millwall in the Championship. At the moment, that job doesn't look particularly difficult but it's a long season. It's disappointing but it's a positive sign that Kenny is prepared to honour his commitments to Millwall - and presumably he would do the same for Wales if he is the manager some time in the future.
Gary Speed says he can't take the job as the timing is all wrong. He has only recently become manager of Sheffield United - his first managerial position, although he says this won't necessary put him at a disadvantage - and he's completely focused on that job and it wouldn't feel right to leave them in the lurch now.
Tony Pulis says he would like to manage Wales one day but he thinks it's too early in his career for him to take the job now.
However, there is one manager who has openly expressed interest in managing Wales. John Hartson has no experience but he has done his coaching badges and, as Gary Speed pointed out, having no experience didn't do Mark Hughes any harm. John Hartson would be the romantic choice. Just imagine it, John Hartson, cancer survivor, leading Wales into Euro 2012. It would be amazing and moving but perhaps not very realistic. Mark Hughes managed without experience but that doesn't mean anyone could. I am not a realist though and I would love to see John managing Wales.
Another reason to appoint John is that he's willing to ask Ryan Giggs, Simon Davies and Robbie Savage to come out of retirement. I'm not sure he'd be successful - Ryan and Robbie are both coming to the end of their careers, and Robbie is also working in the media. Simon retired due to a persistent foot injury. All three might well need their international breaks but it would be great to have a manager who is prepared to look at all the options.
Robbie Savage has however said he might be interested in playing for Wales again now John Toshack has gone (he also doesn't rule out driving the team bus). It would be great if he meant it but his claim that he wasn't going to bitch about Tosh was maybe not completely true... Robbie has also been mentioned in connection with the manager's job.
Ryan Giggs said he'd love to manage Wales one day. But not right now. Even if he was interested in taking the job on now, Sir Alex Ferguson probably wouldn't let him. In some ways I kind of feel Ryan is old enough to make up his own mind but at the same time, he already has one full-time job. To take on another job, one of which he has no experience, particularly when he's already working past the average retirement age, could well be too much for him and Ferguson is naturally eager for Ryan to continue to work to a very high standsrd with Manchester United. John Toshack feels Ryan isn't the best person as Wales need someone with managerial experience.
Brian Flynn is many people's first-choice to take on the role and he's my first-choice too. He knows a lot of the senior squad already from working with them in the under-21s. Some might point out that the under-12s failed to progress to the Uefa Under-21 Championship play-offs but they came very close and if the goal diffrence rule had applied, they would have got through - ahead of Italy. Brian has done well with the under-21s, they are currently between competitions so it seems a good time for him to move to the senior squad if he wishes to.
Chris Coleman has also been linked with the job. He's currently out of work - and he's yet to rule himself out.
Sky Sports looks at the playing and managerial career of John Toshack.
I'm sad to see Tosh go. He did do really well at times and has a higher precentage of wins than any other Wales manager. I hope he finds another job soon. But most of all, I hope Wales find a new manager.
Neville Southall says just one new manager might not be enough but if there is just one, it should be Brian Flynn.
Many of those linked with the post have ruled themselves out.
Kenny Jackett says he is flattered to be linked with such a big job but at the moment he's committed to keeping Millwall in the Championship. At the moment, that job doesn't look particularly difficult but it's a long season. It's disappointing but it's a positive sign that Kenny is prepared to honour his commitments to Millwall - and presumably he would do the same for Wales if he is the manager some time in the future.
Gary Speed says he can't take the job as the timing is all wrong. He has only recently become manager of Sheffield United - his first managerial position, although he says this won't necessary put him at a disadvantage - and he's completely focused on that job and it wouldn't feel right to leave them in the lurch now.
Tony Pulis says he would like to manage Wales one day but he thinks it's too early in his career for him to take the job now.
However, there is one manager who has openly expressed interest in managing Wales. John Hartson has no experience but he has done his coaching badges and, as Gary Speed pointed out, having no experience didn't do Mark Hughes any harm. John Hartson would be the romantic choice. Just imagine it, John Hartson, cancer survivor, leading Wales into Euro 2012. It would be amazing and moving but perhaps not very realistic. Mark Hughes managed without experience but that doesn't mean anyone could. I am not a realist though and I would love to see John managing Wales.
Another reason to appoint John is that he's willing to ask Ryan Giggs, Simon Davies and Robbie Savage to come out of retirement. I'm not sure he'd be successful - Ryan and Robbie are both coming to the end of their careers, and Robbie is also working in the media. Simon retired due to a persistent foot injury. All three might well need their international breaks but it would be great to have a manager who is prepared to look at all the options.
Robbie Savage has however said he might be interested in playing for Wales again now John Toshack has gone (he also doesn't rule out driving the team bus). It would be great if he meant it but his claim that he wasn't going to bitch about Tosh was maybe not completely true... Robbie has also been mentioned in connection with the manager's job.
Ryan Giggs said he'd love to manage Wales one day. But not right now. Even if he was interested in taking the job on now, Sir Alex Ferguson probably wouldn't let him. In some ways I kind of feel Ryan is old enough to make up his own mind but at the same time, he already has one full-time job. To take on another job, one of which he has no experience, particularly when he's already working past the average retirement age, could well be too much for him and Ferguson is naturally eager for Ryan to continue to work to a very high standsrd with Manchester United. John Toshack feels Ryan isn't the best person as Wales need someone with managerial experience.
Brian Flynn is many people's first-choice to take on the role and he's my first-choice too. He knows a lot of the senior squad already from working with them in the under-21s. Some might point out that the under-12s failed to progress to the Uefa Under-21 Championship play-offs but they came very close and if the goal diffrence rule had applied, they would have got through - ahead of Italy. Brian has done well with the under-21s, they are currently between competitions so it seems a good time for him to move to the senior squad if he wishes to.
Chris Coleman has also been linked with the job. He's currently out of work - and he's yet to rule himself out.
Sky Sports looks at the playing and managerial career of John Toshack.
I'm sad to see Tosh go. He did do really well at times and has a higher precentage of wins than any other Wales manager. I hope he finds another job soon. But most of all, I hope Wales find a new manager.
Wednesday, 18 August 2010
The Craig Bellamy Saga - 18th August
Celtic still seem to think they can sign Craig Bellamy but Cardiff City might have a few things to say about that.
Tony Pulis says that Stoke City were yet another team interested in signing Craig.
But maybe Craig’s next club will be Manchester City. Roberto Mancini hasn’t quite slammed the door in Craig’s face.
Manchester City will continue to pay Craig’s wages while he’s at Cardiff. Some would say it’s worth paying that much just to get rid of him. I think it’s City’s loss. He can seem arrogant but at least he’s a hard-working team player.
John Hartson thinks Craig will be a big success at Cardiff after being one of the Premier League’s best players last season.
The fans seem pretty keen on Craig too.
Wales’ assistant manager Roy Evans thinks the signing of Craig will be great for Welsh football – but not so good for the natonal team.
Tony Pulis says that Stoke City were yet another team interested in signing Craig.
But maybe Craig’s next club will be Manchester City. Roberto Mancini hasn’t quite slammed the door in Craig’s face.
Manchester City will continue to pay Craig’s wages while he’s at Cardiff. Some would say it’s worth paying that much just to get rid of him. I think it’s City’s loss. He can seem arrogant but at least he’s a hard-working team player.
John Hartson thinks Craig will be a big success at Cardiff after being one of the Premier League’s best players last season.
The fans seem pretty keen on Craig too.
Wales’ assistant manager Roy Evans thinks the signing of Craig will be great for Welsh football – but not so good for the natonal team.
Saturday, 31 July 2010
Friday, 9 July 2010
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.
Saturday, 12 December 2009
Wales player news December 12th
John Hartson says he hates the England football team and he hopes they’re out of the World Cup as soon as possible. Well that’s what it says in Wales Online. Maybe they exaggerated a bit. Anyway I love his passion for Wales and I can’t really blame him for hating England because they are local rivals in a sense and there aren’t any other ‘local’ teams that are good enough to hate except Ireland and you can’t hate them, not after Thierry Henry.
Aaron Ramsey’s younger brother Josh has been playing for the Under-18 Rugby League team. Wales Online are speculating over who will qualify for the World Cup first. I think it’s probably Josh to be honest. And he’ll get bigger crowds watching him too. But however unWelsh of me it might be, I’ll always love football best and I'm glad Aaron chose to play football instead of rugby. Arsenal and Wales just wouldn't be as good without him. And they're my favourite teams in the world.
Jack Collison has been named BBC Young London Player of the Year. Well done Jack :D
Reading are getting desperate. They're even going after injured players now. But okay, I can't blame them for being interested in Doncaster Rovers player Brian Stock.
Arron Davies was on loan to Brighton but Gus Poyet didn’t want him and sent him back to Nottingham Forest. Now Forest manager Billy Davies doesn’t want him either but he was quite nice about it, at least to the Press. He says he doesn’t want to stand in the way of Arron’s career so he’s giving him the chance to find a club that’s right for him. And I hope he does, he’s not a bad player at all. Still it’s not the nicest Christmas present Poyet could have given Arron...
Aaron Ramsey’s younger brother Josh has been playing for the Under-18 Rugby League team. Wales Online are speculating over who will qualify for the World Cup first. I think it’s probably Josh to be honest. And he’ll get bigger crowds watching him too. But however unWelsh of me it might be, I’ll always love football best and I'm glad Aaron chose to play football instead of rugby. Arsenal and Wales just wouldn't be as good without him. And they're my favourite teams in the world.
Jack Collison has been named BBC Young London Player of the Year. Well done Jack :D
Reading are getting desperate. They're even going after injured players now. But okay, I can't blame them for being interested in Doncaster Rovers player Brian Stock.
Arron Davies was on loan to Brighton but Gus Poyet didn’t want him and sent him back to Nottingham Forest. Now Forest manager Billy Davies doesn’t want him either but he was quite nice about it, at least to the Press. He says he doesn’t want to stand in the way of Arron’s career so he’s giving him the chance to find a club that’s right for him. And I hope he does, he’s not a bad player at all. Still it’s not the nicest Christmas present Poyet could have given Arron...
Friday, 4 December 2009
Brilliant brilliant brilliant news (John Hartson)
John Hartson’s agent says his cancer had been ‘virtually eradicated’ from his body.
He’s got a way to go yet but he’s feeling positive.
He’s got a way to go yet but he’s feeling positive.
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