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Post by Macmoish on Jun 9, 2014 16:39:44 GMT
As I tweeted back, I have no idea how many Male and Female Football journalists there are.
(And whether the journalists are all/primarily football "journalists" or more general sports - or even general news etc)
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Post by Macmoish on Jun 9, 2014 17:50:30 GMT
@fourfourtweet: Referees at the #FIFA World Cup will wear this watch which says if the ball has gone over the goal-line or not. #GLT t.co/AiG2ysFizQ
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Post by sharky on Jun 9, 2014 22:36:33 GMT
From the BBC www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27774005World Cup 2014: Wilshere says England ready for Italy's Pirlo By Phil McNulty Chief football writer in Rio de Janeiro Jack Wilshere says stopping Andrea Pirlo will be central to England's plans in their World Cup opener against Italy in Manaus on Saturday. The 35-year-old Italian midfielder tormented England with his passing when they were beaten on penalties in the Euro 2012 quarter-finals. Wilshere, 22, says England have used their warm-up games to prepare. Pirlo's trophy haul Italy - 108 caps World Cup: 2006 AC Milan Serie A: 2003-04, 2010-11 Coppa Italia: 2002-03 UEFA Champions League: 2002-03, 2006-07 UEFA Super Cup: 2003, 2007 FIFA Club World Cup: 2007 Juventus Serie A: 2011-12, 2012-13, 2013-14 "We had two in midfield with one ahead of you and it will be his job to screen him," said Wilshere. Of the Italy squad, only goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon at 36 is older than Juventus playmaker Pirlo, who played in 43 domestic matches last season as Juve recorded 102 points to win the Italian title. Wilshere added: "There will be times in the game when he gets on the ball and then we just have to narrow in and stop his forward balls. "He is a great player, the anchor. He picks the ball up, he's a playmaker. He gets the game started and we saw that a couple of years ago in the Euros. He was great in that game. We know that he is getting on but we know he has the quality." Arsenal's midfield man also insisted England have no fear of the extreme conditions they may face in Manaus. "Maybe before when we saw the draw, but no we've prepared," said Wilshere. "We trained hard in Portugal, we trained with the extra layers and we went to Miami and stepped it up a bit. "Now we're feeling really good and we've got things in place - cooling systems in the dressing room which is going to help us. We're fully prepared."
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Post by sharky on Jun 10, 2014 15:14:16 GMT
From fifa.com www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2014/m=6/news=goal-line-technology-in-the-spotlight-at-maracana-2362956.html Goal-line technology in the spotlight at Maracana Goal-line technology (GLT) was on show at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro today as FIFA and GoalControl GmbH held a media event to demonstrate how the technology works. Members of the media from around the world had an opportunity to see the GoalControl-4D technology in action, including wearing the referee watch to receive the indication of “Goal” or “No Goal”, which is immediately confirmed within one second as part of the requirements of the International Football Association Board (The IFAB) who approved the principle of GLT in July 2012. The GoalControl-4D system is equipped with 14 high-speed cameras located around the pitch, with seven cameras focussing on each goalmouth. Using a special detection software, the ball is filtered out from the image sequences and its real-time position is automatically calculated as X, Y and Z coordinates as well as speed, making it 4D. If the ball has fully crossed the goal-line, the central processing unit automatically sends an encrypted radio signal to the referee’s watch in less than one second indicating a goal by means of vibration and a visual signal. The GLT media event followed on from the referees training session on Saturday, 7 June, also at the Maracana, which FIFA organises to ensure that all match officials are comfortable with the technology and to explain the pre-match procedure in more detail. The general functionality and accuracy of the system and in particular the mandatory referee check were important parts of this training. “Goal-line technology will be a very big help,” says FIFA’s Head of Refereeing Massimo Busacca. “We have to remember it’s to see if it’s a goal or no goal, not other situations, but it will be in my opinion a really good support.” GoalControl-4D has been installed across all 12 stadiums, each one having successfully passed the Final Installation Test. As part of this testing, around 2,400 GLT incidents had to be correctly indicated in various situations and conditions. This Final Installation Test is a standard procedure as part of the official certification process outlined in the GLT Testing Manual and ensures the system reaches the FIFA QUALITY PRO level required by the Laws of the Game. Brazil 2014 marks the first FIFA World Cup™ in which match officials will be supported by GLT. It has been used previously at the FIFA Club World Cup 2012 and 2013, as well as last year’s FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil.
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Post by Ashdown_Ranger on Jun 10, 2014 17:15:50 GMT
I'm not usually one to promote the massive global corporates, I really liked the different take in this Nike 'ad' (well, its a 5 minute animated movie really...). Could almost be our 2013-14 team vs our 2012-13 Queens Park Bosingwas side...
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Post by eusebio13 on Jun 10, 2014 21:52:30 GMT
Rickie Lambert's dad fired for breaking coffee machine DAYS before son kicks off at World Cup Jun 10, 2014 22:30 By Euan Stretch, Luke Traynor Ray Lambert was dismissed from his £20,000 Matalan warehouse job after he says he accidentally broke a vending machine glass panel trying to get a £1 cup of coffee Sacked: Rickie Lambert and his dad Ray The dad of England star Rickie Lambert has been sacked just days before his son is due to play in his first World Cup . Ray Lambert, 54, was dismissed on the spot after he says he accidentally broke a vending machine glass panel trying to get a £1 cup of coffee. The dad-of-three , who was a warehouse worker at clothing giant Matalan’s distribution centre in Knowsley, Merseyside, was escorted off the premises by security guards. An ex-workmate said Ray, who is due to fly out to Brazil with wife Maureen, 57, was “fuming” over his dismissal from his £20,000 a year job and was considering an appeal. Matalan said it was an act of gross misconduct and caused substantial damage. The ex-colleague, who did want to be named, said: “To sack Ray for something so trivial was pathetic. Liverpool EchoRay and Maureen LambertShock: Ray and Maureen Lambert “Loads of people give that machine a nudge. Everyone thinks that he was dealt with very harshly and the timing could not have been worse.” Ray, who lives in a terraced house in Kirkby, had been with Matalan for 10 years. He said: “Ray likes to work even though Rickie is a millionaire. “ Ray refused to comment about his sacking. A company spokeswoman said: “Matalan confirms an employee was dismissed following an act of gross misconduct involving substantial damage. “Matalan takes its responsibility as an employer very seriously and has conducted this dismissal in accordance with the company’s disciplinary policy.” www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/rickie-lamberts-dad-fired-breaking-3672658#ixzz34H9bWpPi Follow us: @dailymirror on Twitter | DailyMirror on Facebook
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 1:30:14 GMT
From the BBC. Welbeck troubles for England? www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27789874World Cup 2014: England assess Danny Welbeck thigh injury By Phil McNulty Chief football writer in Rio England will give a fitness update on Danny Welbeck on Wednesday after he emerged as a potential injury worry for Saturday's World Cup opener with Italy. The Manchester United striker, 23, is said to have a thigh problem following a training session at England's Urca military base headquarters on Tuesday. If he is ruled out, it will increase the chances of Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling facing the Italians in Manaus. Welbeck has scored eight goals in 20 games under England boss Roy Hodgson. The absence of Welbeck would be a serious blow for Hodgson, who is a huge admirer of the often unsung attacker. Sterling had been a serious contender to play against Italy anyway after creating a big impression in training, with Hodgson even contemplating using his pace and drive just behind his Liverpool team-mate Daniel Sturridge and pushing Wayne Rooney to the left. Hodgson said on Tuesday that Sterling was "as fit as a flea" despite only playing for 39 minutes in the past five weeks. He was suspended for the goalless draw with Honduras in Miami on Saturday having been sent off 15 minutes after coming on as substitute against Ecuador. "Any time you choose to select a player or not select a player, you can come up with reasons," said Hodgson. "If you're asking me if I will hide behind that, to not consider him [Sterling], then I won't because he's as fit as a flea and I'm pretty certain he hasn't forgotten how to play matches either. "It was unfortunate he couldn't play in that game but I can tell you Raheem Sterling is very much in the group of players I'm considering. "If I select him it won't, in my opinion, be a risk that he hasn't played so many minutes. And if I don't select him it certainly won't be because he has only played 39 minutes. It will be because I prefer someone else." Meanwhile Hodgson has revealed his players will take malaria tablets before they head to the Amazonian rainforest to face Italy on Saturday - despite fears of possible side-effects. Hodgson and his squad fly to Manaus on Thursday morning and will start taking the tablets two days before they leave, and for five days afterwards, as a precaution against the illness. He said: "As far as I'm concerned I've got to go with medical opinion. If the doctors are telling me that when we go to Manaus the players must take malaria tablets whether it has side-effects or not, what can I do? "I can't turn around and say 'we will not take malaria tablets' because the bottom line is better stomach cramps for one player in 10 rather than have someone contract malaria."
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 2:43:32 GMT
From sportsman.co.au, an Aussie story. More to follow......... www.sportsfan.com.au/mat-ryan-wont-be-caught-star-gazing/tabid/91/newsid/134222/default.aspx?cid=BP_RSS_SPORT_4_MatRyanwontbecaughtstargazing_110614Mat Ryan won't be caught star-gazing Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - 10:45 AM Source: AAP Author: Angela Habashy Socceroos shot-stopper Mat Ryan will be playing the ball, rather than the man, when some of the greatest attackers on the planet come charging at him in Brazil. First up are Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas when Australia open their World Cup campaign against Chile on Friday (Saturday morning AEST). Further down the track, Ryan will confront the likes of Dutchman Robin van Persie ad Spanish superstar Andres Iniesta. But he insists there will be no time for star-gazing. "You have the likes of Alex Sanchez who plays for the best club in the world at Barcelona," said Ryan, "You use those sorts of guys playing FIFA and you see them in footballing headlines all over the word so it is a little bit daunting. "But you have no time come the day of the match to be in awe of them, because if that happens I'll probably be kicking the ball out of the net. "So I'll just have to do my best to look at the ball and not at the player to see who it is and hopefully I can stop the ball from going in." With the Socceroos to also face the Netherlands and Spain, the raid on their defence is set to continue. But Ryan, who was named goalkeeper of the year in the Belgian top flight for his standout campaign with Club Brugge, says he can't wait to confront the assault. "I definitely thrive on that - stopping a shot from the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Andres Iniesta or Robin van Persie," he said. "After the World Cup when I can reflect on my performances, hopefully they haven't put a few past me and I can say that I've saved more than they've scored." After weeks of what Ryan described as brutal training the Socceroos were given their first day off since arriving to Brazil late last month. In a rare treat, they got to leave the confines of their hotel and wander to a local cafe. While the physical intensity may have dropped off, the tactical work is ramping up. "The goalkeepers did a video session yesterday and we did a team video session last night and have another one tonight," Ryan said. "So we're getting all the research out of the way and to make sure we know what we're expecting from Chile and for us players to learn the gameplan that the coaching staff and the technical staff are putting together." But all the research and advice will count for nothing on game day if the Australians aren't ready to back it up with actions. "Words can only go so far," he said. "So now for my sake I have to go out there and back my ability to do the job for the team and for the country."
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 2:48:07 GMT
........and another from sportsman.com.au www.sportsfan.com.au/captain-jedinak-thrives-after-knockbacks/tabid/91/newsid/134220/default.aspx?cid=BP_RSS_SPORT_5_CaptainJedinakthrivesafterknockbacks_110614Captain Jedinak thrives after knockbacks Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - 10:39 AM Source: AAP Author: Steve Larkin Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak remembers getting laughed at. And he also remembers not being able to get an A-League contract. "I have had my knock-backs," Jedinak says as he prepares to lead Australia's campaign at the World Cup in Brazil. As a boy in Sydney, people asked Jedinak what he wanted to be when he grew up. He knew the answer: a professional footballer. But he was reluctant to say it. "In this country, you would say you wanted to be a professional footballer and people would laugh at you," Jedinak says. "So whenever I'd get asked 'what do up want to be when you grow up?', I would want to say professional sports person. But I knew people wouldn't take me seriously. "But I knew I wanted to do this from a very young age." Jedinak's love for soccer started when watching his older brother play. "I remember one time watching those older boys, they needed someone to play and I got chucked in," he says. "I didn't have any gear or anything. I used cardboard as shin pads." So began an unbridled passion for the game for a self-described "football fanatic". But the game hasn't always loved him back. As a teen, Jedinak left Sydney United in state league ranks for Croatian club Varadin. He struggled, making just one competitive appearance in 2003-04. "When I went to Croatia as a youngster I came back after a year and half," he says. "It just didn't work out." On return to Australia, the then 21-year-old, considered a hard-worker but not elite talent, was snubbed by A-League clubs. So he played for Sydney United and was part of their 2006 NSW Premier League title win. "I couldn't get an A-League contract immediately, for whatever reason. So I just had to bide my time," he says. "It was tough. But you can't force these things. Sometimes it's just about timing." Central Coast Mariners came calling in 2006 and he stayed with the A-Leaguers until Christmas Day 2008, when he signed a contract with Turkish outfit Genlerbirligi. He stayed in Turkey until June 2011 when he sought another club in another country - a month later, he signed with Crystal Palace in England. Jedinak admits when he went to England, he never dared to imagine that, three years on, he would be captain of Palace and Australia. "Did I have goals and ambitions back then? Absolutely," he says. "Was one of them playing at the highest level I could? Yes. "Was one of them playing for my national team? Of course. "But to do it and to do it the way I did is very special and something I don't take lightly because it's something I know I have had to work really hard for." Jedinak inspiration now primarily comes from his family. "The fire in my belly comes from a lot of things. But first and foremost it comes from my family - my two kids, my wife, my parents," he says. "It's all to make them happy. It's all to make them proud." Jedinak has two boys, aged two and nine months. "My eldest now knows what I do for work. He calls it 'kicky ball'," he says. "What does daddy do for work? 'Kicky ball and fall on the ground' - that's what he says." Now he's national captain, Jedinak acknowledges the expectation on him. "But I take it all in my stride, I don't let it faze me," he says. "I have been given a responsibility at club level to be a captain for a reason. "It's within your own makeup as a person and it's something I try to replicate here with Australia. "I know there could be added pressure. Fair enough, so be it. "It's always about respect when you're put into a position like that. "And I think in whatever groups I have been in I have always been able to gain that respect. But that respect has to be earned."
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Post by eusebio13 on Jun 11, 2014 5:27:56 GMT
Cristiano Ronaldo helps Portugal thrash Ireland in final warm-up game Portugal beat Ireland 5-1 in New York Real Madrid star fit to start after knee tendinitis Hugo Almeida grabs two goals in comfortable win Vieirinha and Fabio Coentrao also on target James McClean scored consolation for Martin O'Neill's men Portugal face Germany on Monday in first World Cup match By PHILIP QUINN PUBLISHED: 01:45, 11 June 2014 | UPDATED: 02:57, 11 June 2014 40 shares 17View comments It took Cristiano Ronaldo 52 seconds to confirm his World Cup well-being as Portugal signed off for the finals on a comprehensive note in the MetLife Stadium against a ragged Republic of Ireland. Out of action since the Champions League final, Ronaldo ripped through the Irish defence with his first touch to spear a shot on target. The message was clear – CR7 was back. In front of Roy Keane, his former Manchester United comrade, Ronaldo smacked the post, had an assist, and twice went close from open play as he showed enough of his repertoire to indicate he will carry a serious threat in Brazil. Match facts Portugal: Patricio; Amorim (Veloso 81), Neto (A Almeida 66), Costa, Coentrao; Varela (Vierinha 73), Carvalho, Meireles (Nani 66), Ronaldo (Pepe 66); Moutinho, H Almeida (Postiga 66). Goals: Almeida 3, 37, R Keogh og 19, Vierinha 77. Republic of Ireland: Forde; Kelly (Doyle 76), Keogh, Ward (Quinn 67), Pearce; McGeady (Cox 76), Hendrick, Meyler, McClean (Pilkington 67); Hoolahan (Keane 64); Walters (Long 63). Goal: McClean 52 Referee: B Toledo (USA). Attendance: 46,063 The 29-year-old World Player of the Year also shipped a couple of hefty Irish challenges which certainly tested his fitness after knee and thigh problems. Wisely, Portuguese coach Paolo Bento withdrew Ronaldo just after an hour on a newly-laid surface that was a slow, spongy, and a hazard throughout. Too often, players lost their footing and it was a blessing that no one picked up an injury. Twenty years after their World Cup win over Italy in the old Giants Stadium, the Irish were cut down to size as they slipped to their most comprehensive defeat under Martin O’Neill. But for the first half heroics of David Forde in the goal, the margin of defeat would have been greater for a team which played, at times, as if the summer break was on their minds. After a lusty rendition of ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ sung by Uncle Junior from The Sopranos, the Portuguese fans had reason to cheer Ronald’s early surge, and an early goal. It came inside the third minute when Ireland lost possession – this became a worrying trend – and Silvestre Varela crossed from the right for the unmarked Hugo Almeida to head home. After a double save from Forde to deny Ronaldo and Raul Meireles, who also returned after injury, Portugal doubled their advantage when Richard Keogh deflected Fabio Coentrao’s left-wing delivery beyond Forde into the top corner. Captain fantastic: Ronaldo's return marked a major improvement in Portugal's attacking play The one-sided nature of play continued when Ronaldo struck the butt of the upright before the Real Madrid star found the target with a header which bounced off Forde into the path of Almeida, who snapped up his second goal of the night. There were few positives for O’Neill, who sprang a surprise by leaving out Robbie Keane from the starting XI and giving Jon Walters the armband and the lone ranger role in attack. It was only the second time in 13 years that Keane didn’t start when fit – the last occasion was for a friendly against Georgia 12 months ago. O’Neill says he knows what Keane can do but the omission of Ireland’s record goal scorer and most capped player is a perhaps a clue to O’Neill’s thoughts for the Euro 2016 qualiifers. Keane will be 34 next month and needs to be used sparingly for the campaign. He was missed last night as the Irish lacked bite in the final third, although things improved after the break where James McClean grabbed a consolation goal from a quickly taken free-kick in the 52nd minut. It was McClean’s first on his 23rd appearance. While Wes Hoolahan’s artistry grafted, Keogh’s bravery was without question, the Irish conceded two more goals late on through Vierinha and Contrao as O’Neill was left to reflect on a worrying run of six games without a win. Read more: www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/worldcup2014/article-2654655/Portugal-v-Republic-Ireland-Cristiano-Ronaldo-starts-Portugal-face-Ireland-final-warm-heading-Brazil.html#ixzz34Izd3xno Follow us: @mailonline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 7:33:20 GMT
From the BBC www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27785808World Cup 2014: Pele says Neymar carries Brazil expectation Brazil legend Pele is concerned striker Neymar is under too much pressure to inspire the hosts to World Cup glory. Neymar, 22, has not played in a World Cup but has scored seven goals in Brazil's run of nine successive wins. Brazil's all-time top scorers Pele - 77 goals in 92 caps Zico - 66 goals in 88 caps Ronaldo - 62 goals in 98 caps Romario - 55 goals in 70 caps Bebeto - 39 goals in 75 caps "Neymar is young," Pele told Gary Lineker in a BBC Match of the Day interview. "It is a heavy pressure for him to get all the responsibility." Brazil have won the World Cup a record five times but have not lifted the trophy since 2002. The hosts, who face Croatia in the tournament opener in Sao Paulo on Thursday, won the 2013 Confederations Cup, beating world champions Spain 3-0 in the final. Neymar, who plays his club football for Barcelona, grabbed the headlines with his performance in that game and scored Brazil's second goal with a rasping left-foot shot. Luiz Filipe Scolari's side have also won nine successive friendlies since defeat by Switzerland in August, scoring 30 goals and conceding only two. "For the first time in history, Brazil has a defence better than they attack, " said 73-year-old Pele, his country's all-time leading scorer with 77 goals. "The midfield back is fantastic. Very organised. I hope we can adjust from the midfield forward."
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 7:47:24 GMT
Also from the BBC, a story on the originally QPR player, Raheem Sterling www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27773979World Cup 2014: Raheem Sterling in frame for England against Italy From Rio de Janeiro As England's first training session at Rio's Urca military base in the shadow of Sugarloaf Mountain moved towards its conclusion, manager Roy Hodgson called out to Raheem Sterling to make an animated point. It was at the end of a stint, conducted against a magnificent backdrop, in which Liverpool's 19-year-old had once again demonstrated the precocious talent that makes him a serious contender to start England's first World Cup game against Italy in Manaus on Saturday. Hodgson has been fighting shy of giving hints about who will start when England journey up the Amazon - but his constant enthusing over Sterling suggests the teenager's pace, dynamism and element of surprise have put him right in the frame. The England players' goodwill gesture was accompanied by music from a local samba band All this despite being limited to just 15 minutes of action against Ecuador during England's Miami warm-up before he was sent off for a wild challenge on Antonio Valencia. Before training began on Monday, a now customary goodwill gesture saw England's squad and Hodgson standing behind a banner reading "Obrigado Brasil pela recepcao calorosa" - which translates as "Thank you Brazil for your warm welcome". This was accompanied by a version of "We Are The Champions" and traditional music from a samba band from the Bola Pra Frente favela. Once the action did start, Sterling showed the sharpness that has caught Hodgson's eye to such an extent that, while he makes a point of avoiding too much high praise for young players like Ross Barkley, he has been waxing lyrical about Sterling without prompting. Sterling joined Barkley and Southampton's Luke Shaw in a sharp passing drill and later showed deft, as well as powerfully accurate, finishing before he was summoned for some final advice from Hodgson. It was another impressive statement of intent. As always in the build-up to an opening World Cup game, every piece of body language and change in training is open to interpretation. Sterling stayed out in the heat and worked longer than many who would be regarded as certainties for Hodgson's first XI - but this may have simply been because he took no part in the bruising goalless draw against Honduras through suspension. On the other hand, Wayne Rooney was another who stayed out longer in sweltering conditions while others who played alongside him in his 45-minute outing at the Sun Life Stadium retreated into shelter. England's training camp is in spectacular surroundings beneath Sugarloaf Mountain The shadow cast by the emergence of Sterling, described by Hodgson as "breathtaking" and "unstoppable" after England's last training session in Miami, has delivered a delightful complication to the manager's selection plans. After the draw against Honduras, Hodgson said: "My frustration, apart from the frustration of having to watch that game, was the frustration that Raheem Sterling couldn't take any part in it, because he's been excellent in training. "It would have been nice to have given him a game beforehand, but now he'll have to compete for a place not having had these warm-up games." And compete he will. Hodgson's admiration for Danny Welbeck, as well as the Manchester United man's fine performance against Honduras, has probably cemented his place against Italy, leaving Southampton's Adam Lallana vulnerable. But what about Rooney? His place may not be under threat, despite that extended session on Monday when most of his team-mates against Honduras were resting, but there is a case to suggest he may be shifted left to accommodate Sterling, with Hodgson acknowledging Rooney is one of a number of players who could play that role. Sterling's adaptability also marks him out as someone who can terrorise out wide - or deliver impact from the bench. A man for all reasons. The name-checks for Sterling have not been all from his manager either. As well as Hodgson, Liverpool team-mates Jordan Henderson and Glen Johnson - not that surprisingly, it should be said - have added their messages of praise. Henderson said: "Raheem is a fantastic player. You've seen that in the Premier League and even when he's played for England. He's outstanding. He has no fear. He can be a big plus for us in the World Cup." Johnson hopes his clubmate's lack of recent action might make him a mystery to Italy, saying: "It would be ideal if people don't really know what Raheem is capable of and underestimate him. That would definitely work in our favour." The debate will continue as the week progresses but one thing is certain - England's players can have no excuses about the location of their training facilities. Sugarloaf delivers a spectacular setting. Additional extras in the surrounding waters were a submarine and a yacht, while a helicopter swooped overhead. The only thing that did not run like clockwork was Barkley, who pitched up late for the team coach, much to the amusement of his England team-mates. Sterling, in contrast, might be a young man who is timing his World Cup run perfectly.
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 9:17:27 GMT
From the BBC www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27790805World Cup 2014: Luis Suarez doing 'triple shifts' for Uruguay Striker Luis Suarez is working overtime to be fit for the World Cup as he recovers from knee surgery, says Uruguay team-mate Cristian Rodriguez. Uruguay open their Group D campaign against Costa Rica on Saturday, and coach Oscar Tabarez does not know when the Liverpool player will be available. But winger Rodriguez said Suarez, 27, is doing all he can to return quickly. "He is very focused. He is working in double and triple shifts and we hope to have him with us soon," he said. Suarez had keyhole surgery to repair meniscus damage in his left knee on 22 May. After facing Costa Rica, Uruguay meet England on 19 June, before completing their group games against Italy five days later. Tabarez said Suarez is "responding very well" to his training programme and is in good spirits. He added: "As we have no set deadlines, I don't know if we'll have him for the first match, for the second, for the third. "If it were up to me, Suarez would play tomorrow."
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Post by blueeyedcptcook on Jun 11, 2014 11:57:12 GMT
No one gives the Socceroos, any sort of a chance, but they are training hard, in the Aussie way, and none harder than the team mascot.
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 13:09:12 GMT
The Daily Mail says English fans are the most pessimistic. Only 4% of English fans think England will win the World Cup, and 11% of Aussie fans think Australia will win the World Cup! I recon that 11% thought it was the cricket, rugby or rugby league world cups! England fans are the most pessimistic in the world... with South Koreans, Australians and Mexicans more confident of winning in Brazil Just four per cent of England fans expect Three Lions to win World Cup A YouGov survey looked at the psyche of 19 Brazil-bound countries Only fans of Costa Rica see themselves less likely to win the trophy England fans have the lowest hopes compared to their rank In 2010, 16 per cent of England fans thought they would win tournament Study shows 53 per cent of public not even interested in how England fare By OLIVER TODD PUBLISHED: 20:23 AEST, 11 June 2014 | UPDATED: 22:17 AEST, 11 June 2014 England fans are the world’s most pessimistic compared to their side's ability and just four per cent think they will win the World Cup this summer, according to a YouGov survey. Roy Hodgson’s side are rank outsiders in Brazil – and the fans’ views reflect that, with South Koreans, Mexicans, Australians and Americans all backing their sides more than the English. Only fans of England’s Group D rivals Costa Rica see themselves as less likely to bring home football’s top prize from Brazil - but due to England's superior rank, Three Lions fans are deemed to be more pessimistic. No chance: England fans are the most pessimistic at the World Cup - just four per cent think they will win Hurt: Years of disappointment have contributed to England fans' pessimism about their side Ready: Despite their fans' pessimism, England train in Rio ahead of their opener with Italy on Saturday WORLD'S MOST OPTIMISTIC FANS Brazil (64 per cent) Spain (48 per cent) Argentina (47 per cent) Colombia (25 per cent) Portugal (23 per cent) At the last World Cup in 2010, four times more England fans thought they had a shot at glory - showing a huge drop in the nation’s expectations. Now, 40 per cent say the Three Lions have ‘very little or no chance’ of winning the tournament in Brazil. ENGLAND FANS' NEGATIVITY Just 4 per cent expect England to win the World Cup. Fans of South Korea (eight per cent), Mexico (eight per cent) and Australia (11 per cent) are more positive about their nation's chances. 40 per cent of Three Lions fans think they have 'very little or no chance' of winning the tournament in Brazil. 53 per cent of the English public are not interested in how England fare. The study looked at the psyche of fans from 19 Brazil-bound countries and also revealed that 53 per cent of the English public are not even interested how the team perform at the World Cup – a rise on 2010’s 47 per cent. But there is some love for England from further afield: Japan and Australia fans say Hodgson’s side play the second-most beautiful football in the world. Unsurprisingly considering their recent Falklands banner - the Argentines say they will be rooting against England more than anyone else. According to the report, England fans think Brazil will be lifting the 18-carat gold trophy in Brazil next month, with reigning champions Spain the second-most likely. Defeatist: Only fans of 28th-ranked Costa Rica think their side are less likely to win the World Cup Indifferent: Some 53 per cent of the English public do not care how Roy Hodgson's side do at the World Cup And despite long-standing rivalries with Germany and Argentina, England fans say that Russia are the team they would most like to see crash out early on. Fans from Argentina, Brazil, Spain and, bizarrely, the USA all see themselves as the most likely to win the final in the Maracana on July 13. But none of the 19 countries survey thought England were one of the two most likely winners. Read more: www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/worldcup2014/article-2654981/England-fans-pessimistic-world-South-Koreans-Australians-Mexicans-confident-winning-Brazil.html#ixzz34Kq5LPjc
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 14:17:16 GMT
From the Offie YUN SUK-YOUNG & SOUTH KOREA: WORLD CUP MEDIA VIEW PUBLISHED 14:00 11th June 2014 by @officialqpr Jang Han Kim of the Sports Chosun Korea daily newspaper looks at the chances of South Korea and QPR defender Yun Suk-Young at the 2014 World Cup … What is the general consensus about the national team’s chances? I think they are disappointing at the moment, the attitude is not up to where it should be and if we carry on like this, we will not qualify for last 16. Group H a very hard one, isn’t it, with Belgium, Russia and Algeria all to play? Yes, indeed. I think Belgium will win the group and I think Russia have the best chance of winning second place. Also, Algeria are a dark horse – I went to their match against Romania and they were very strong and fast, and their mentality was very strong. How do you think the team will do? To be honest, I think we won't qualify if we keep playing like we did against Ghana. Yun Suk-Young has become popular among QPR fans following a positive season in 2013/14. How has that news gone down in Korea? He is a hard-working boy and all Koreans think he will do better next year. We also believe that he has shown Harry Redknapp his potential in the play-off match (semi-final, second leg versus Wigan Athletic). How has Yun done in the warm-up fixtures? His overlapping and movement have been outstanding. His final product could improve. Is Yun likely to start the team’s opening group game versus Russia next Tuesday? Yes, because he is one of Korea’s main defenders. If selected, are you confident Yun can impress at the World Cup? Yes, he can impress the world, but I think the team needs to back him up sometimes because football is a team sport. Read more at www.qpr.co.uk/news/article/110614-yun-suk-young-south-korea-world-cup-media-view-1631903.aspx#qP1TrY0jSCqyKhoT.99
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Post by sharky on Jun 11, 2014 23:07:14 GMT
From the BBC www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27804306World Cup 2014: Danny Welbeck fit to face Italy - Wayne Rooney By Phil McNulty Chief football writer in Rio Danny Welbeck will be fit for England's opening World Cup game against Italy on Saturday, according to Wayne Rooney. Welbeck, 23, picked up a thigh injury during training on Tuesday and missed Wednesday's session in the Rio heat. However, Manchester United striker Rooney moved to allay fears his club-mate would miss the game in Manaus. "He will be fine," Rooney said of Welbeck, who has scored eight goals in 20 games under England boss Roy Hodgson. If Welbeck were to be ruled out, it would increase the chances of Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling starting against the Italians. Sterling had been a serious contender to play against Italy anyway after creating a big impression in training, with Hodgson even contemplating using his pace and drive just behind his Liverpool team-mate Daniel Sturridge and pushing Rooney to the left. Hodgson said on Tuesday that Sterling was "as fit as a flea" despite only playing for 39 minutes in the past five weeks. He was suspended for the goalless draw with Honduras in Miami on Saturday having been sent off 15 minutes after coming on as substitute against Ecuador. "He's as fit as a flea and I'm pretty certain he hasn't forgotten how to play matches either," said Hodgson. "Raheem Sterling is very much in the group of players I'm considering. "If I select him, it won't, in my opinion, be a risk. If I don't select him, it certainly won't be because he has only played 39 minutes. It will be because I prefer someone else." Hodgson has revealed his players will take malaria tablets before they head to the Amazonian rainforest to face Italy on Saturday - despite fears of possible side-effects. Hodgson and his squad fly to Manaus on Thursday morning and will start taking the tablets two days before they leave - and for five days afterwards - as a precaution against the illness. "I've got to go with medical opinion," said Hodgson. "If the doctors are telling me that when we go to Manaus the players must take malaria tablets, whether it has side-effects or not, what can I do? "The bottom line is better stomach cramps for one player in 10 rather than have someone contract malaria."
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Post by Macmoish on Jun 12, 2014 8:23:13 GMT
Flashback Four Years...
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Post by kenthoop on Jun 12, 2014 10:36:47 GMT
Joey has got himself a nice little job through the summer ,working for Eurosport ,based Copacabana beach studio ,on everyday summarising ,predicting etc ,good on yer joey enjoy
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Post by sharky on Jun 12, 2014 10:40:44 GMT
How does your nation stack up in the valuable squad stakes? Mine, Australia, is six the cheapest. From the BBC www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27794636World Cup 2014: England third most valuable team at finals England have the third most valuable squad at the World Cup behind Germany and Spain, according to a report. With an estimated insurable value of £550m, England are almost three-times more valuable than group rivals Italy. The study by Lloyds and the Centre for Economics and Business Research lists the average value of one England player as more than the whole Costa Rica team. The insurance-related figures are based on club earnings and endorsement incomes of the 23-man World Cup squads. The 32 teams at the finals have a collective estimated value of £6.2bn. Germany, boasting Toni Kroos, Philipp Lahm and Mesut Ozil, top the list at £642m, with hosts Brazil, who can call on Neymar, Hulk, Oscar and Dani Alves, fourth at £448m. Defending world champions Spain, with the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Diego Costa in their squad, are second at £591m - double the estimated value of their closest Group B rivals Netherlands, who they beat 1-0 in the 2010 World Cup final in South Africa. England's besuited players have an estimated insurable value of £550m Marco Castro from Lloyd's Brazil said: "It is incredible to see how much some of the teams playing in Rio are worth. "The top three - Germany, Spain and England - are worth more than £1.7bn collectively. This is more than the bottom 20 teams combined." Four-time World Cup winners Italy, with Andrea Pirlo and Mario Balotelli in their squad, fall behind England as they have a relatively older squad with reduced future income prospects and lower earnings in Serie A, where the majority of the players are based. Group G has the most valuable talent on show, featuring Germany, Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal, Ghana and the United States, ahead of Group B, which is made up of Spain, the Netherlands, Australia and Chile. Only one member of the England squad - Cetic goalkeeper Fraser Forster - plays outside the highly-paid Premier League. Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, who signed a £300,000-a-week deal in February, is England's highest paid player. England's 2014 Fifa World Cup opponents Costa Rica are the least valuable team in the tournament at £18.5m, with fellow Group D rivals Uruguay, who boast Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, at £144m. Full list of team values: Germany £641.2m, Spain £590.1m, England 550.1m, Brazil £448.3m, France £394.8m, Belgium £360.4m, Argentina £355.3m, Netherlands £279.4m, Portugal £279.3m, Italy £196.8m, Cameroon £195.8m, Croatia £185.6m, Russia £165.8m, Ghana £158.5m, Uruguay £144.1m, Nigeria £143.1m, Switzerland £138.5m, Ivory Coast £132m, USA £110.7m, Japan £92.8m, Bosnia-Herzegovina £84.3m, Mexico £72.5m, Chile £72m, Australia £66.6m, South Korea £65.2m, Colombia £59.5m, Greece £53.2m, Algeria £49.4m, Ecuador £48.9m, Honduras £34.2m, Iran £24.4m, Costa Rica £18.3m.
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Post by Macmoish on Jun 12, 2014 11:54:19 GMT
"The World Cup’s All-schmuck! Team
International soccer is full of the kind of prima donna dicks you could cheer for only out of national duty. There aren't enough red cards on earth to cover the reprehensible behavior of these 11 athletes .... www.vocativ.com/culture/sport/world-cup-schmuck!s-star-team/
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Post by Lonegunmen on Jun 12, 2014 12:08:15 GMT
Come on Aussie!! Also watch Mexico as a dark horse to surprise!
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Post by blueeyedcptcook on Jun 12, 2014 12:35:32 GMT
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Post by sharky on Jun 12, 2014 12:41:15 GMT
From the Offie Paul Parker's take on the World Cup and England's chances. PAUL PARKER ON ENGLAND’S WORLD CUP HOPES PUBLISHED 08:00 12th June 2014 by @officialqpr Former England international Paul Parker on England's 2014 World Cup chances ... FORMER QPR and England defender Paul Parker insists the Three Lions must avoid defeat in their opening World Cup group game to progress past the group stages. Roy Hodgson’s men face Italy in Brazil on Saturday evening (kick-off 11pm GMT). And Parker – also formerly of Manchester United who represented England at the 1990 World Cup, told www.qpr.co.uk in an exclusive interview: “The players will know it’s a very-difficult scenario to come back if you lose your first game. “If you lose your first game, you go into your second – against one of the best teams in South America in Uruguay – knowing that you have to win it. That’d make it doubly difficult. “This is probably the most-difficult group that England have had in a long, long time. There are two other top sides in the group (Italy and Uruguay). Normally that doesn’t happen. “When you have three top sides it’s very difficult. I think we’ll know England’s fate after the second game – without a doubt. “In my opinion, England have to come out of the second game with at least four points in the bag. You’d fancy them to go through then with Costa Rica to come. “If we start right against a very-good side in Italy, you can imagine how much confidence that would give the players.” Daniel Sturridge is likely to lead the line for England in that opening game in Manaus. Parker added: “I think we’re going into the tournament with as many adventurous players as we’ve ever had. “I don’t know if we’ll play adventurous, but I think Daniel Sturridge is a certain starter. “He can make something by himself, he can go and score a goal out of nothing. “We haven’t really had a striker like that for a long, long time. “We’ve had strikers who can score goals, but generally they need help from other people. “So many of Luis Suarez’s goals this year were made by him. Sturridge has been consistent for Liverpool all season and is as ready as anyone.” Following the World Cup, QPR’s Barclays Premier League campaign will kick off on the weekend of August 16th, with the fixtures set to be announced next Wednesday, June 18th (9am). “I didn’t see the play-off final as I was working overseas in Singapore, but it’s great to see QPR back in the Premier League,” explained Parker. “They were in the league in its inaugural season and it’s the division I think the club should be in. “Hopefully lessons have been learned from QPR’s last season in the Premier League. “Hull City have shown you can do it without spending fortunes and by bringing in the right personnel. “I’m sure the club will be looking to hungry players –and I’m certain the fans would like to see players brought in who have a point to prove, who want to play in the Premier League for as long as possible and give 100 percent week in, week out. “I’d like QPR to come up and be steady. And if that does happen, the new ground might come into it. That’d make such a difference to the club. “It’s a very good club that deserves the opportunity of stability.” Read more at www.qpr.co.uk/news/article/120614-paul-parker-on-englands-world-cup-hopes-1628736.aspx#Uo95bFh1fbmAkb5S.99
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Post by Zamoraaaah on Jun 12, 2014 13:36:01 GMT
Our Joey™ on 5 Live World Cup report.
Portuguese QPR fan wearing shirt spotted on beach....We're here, We're there...
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Post by eusebio13 on Jun 12, 2014 13:53:38 GMT
Our Joey™ on 5 Live World Cup report. Portuguese QPR fan wearing shirt spotted on beach.... We're here, We're there... didn't it turn out to be a flamengo shirt?
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Post by Zamoraaaah on Jun 12, 2014 14:00:31 GMT
No that was the second bloke. The first was yesterday.
Also WTF didn't Nike give us the Flamengo shirt as our away?
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Post by eusebio13 on Jun 12, 2014 14:25:21 GMT
No that was the second bloke. The first was yesterday. Also WTF didn't Nike give us the Flamengo shirt as our away? We picked it I think
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Post by Zamoraaaah on Jun 12, 2014 14:42:20 GMT
Bloody fools.
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Post by Zamoraaaah on Jun 12, 2014 14:45:33 GMT
Good hearing Giles Peterson on 5Live. Even though the tunes were snippets. Worth catching on iplayer if you missed it Eus.
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