Conference trucks::football;1

    I agree with Andy, but as I said earlier I would hate to see him 
    leave Villa. Villa are a great team to watch, as are Man U. Either 
    Atkinson or Ferguson could do a great job. Lets hope they stick
    with their respective teams. England in their capable hands could
    prove daunting to others.
    
    Se�n.

    I think whoever they pick should have played and managed at the highest
    levels of the game, unlike Taylor.
    Probably only 5 or 6 candidates at the moment. Keegan and Gerry Francis
    being two....
    Ray

What about a certain Arthur Daley, oops
I mean Terry Venables.

Chris.

Atkinson won't do it. He's said as much many times.

It's got to be Hoddle.

Mike

    
    It should be somebody who is an unknown. Then the papers will start by
    saying he's got no chance and applaud every good match. Usually, it
    works the other way around. A celebrity gets the job, the papers hype
    him up into a worldbeater and then pull him to shreds with every
    "unscored goal". How about Liam Brady? 8-))
    
    Archie
    

Re;-1 : From that point of wiew why not Ian Branfoot.

	The press will praise him if he manages to get a point off San 
Marino ! He did a great job at Reading and is doing an even better job at 
Southampton.

Andy

    I bet that Bryan Robsons name gets thrown into the hat at some stage.
    Personally I think Hoddle would be a good choice, but he could get
    cruicified by the press, for not having any real success, as happened
    to Taylor. Then Cloughies name will crop up and so on. I wouldn't like
    to be in the job, no matter who I was.
    
    Rich H.

    If there were such a thing as an international player manager
    then yes Hoddle fits the bill, but as the English have been
    foolish enough to leave him out of their team since God knows
    when, then what's to say they would select him as manager. Not
    only that, what's to say he would actually want the job.
    
    Signed 
    
    Se�n "always was, always will be, Hoddle Fan"
    

    
    	Gerry Francis or Ossie Ardilles.

    WHAT!!!!
    
    You guys would actually take on a guy from ARGENTINA?
    
    

Re: last two

I thought he was IRISH :

		Oswald O' Ardiles

 Eduard  :-)))))))

  Liam Brady is a free man now as well as Joe Jordan... But I think neither 
would be interested in training a sub-par team...:)!  What's Ken Dodd doing
these days, Iam sure he needs some new diddymen!!!!!! (::)

                                                                 -dave-

    As far as I can see, there's only one man for the job ...
    
    
    
    Lady Thatcher !

What about if we give Johann Cruyff the job. 

That way when Holland beat us and qualify for the World Cup (and we don't)
Cruyff won't be able to take over managing the team, Gullit will refuse to play,
and they'll get knocked out. 

A victory for petty spite. What more can we hope for.

Mike

    Big Viv would do a wonderful job for several reasons:
    
    a) He just would
    b) He's doing OK at Barnsley with minus money
    c) His pride at being the first black England manager would inspire him
    d) Black England players will soon be in the majority and a black
       manager might be more apt

    What about Arrigo SACCHI?
    
    Pino

    
    Give the job to anybody who will:
    
    1) Tell the English tabloids to F*&# off
    2) Blame themselves and not their players
       for bad results.
    3) Instill a bit of pride into wearing an England shirt.
    4) Have the respect of players, fans & general public
       (Through a past Playing & Management career & likeable personality).
    5) Take no shit from no one.
    6) Smack that git Taylor (Head of F.A) right in the gob.
    7) Encourage a good brand of football.
    8) Stop giving sanctimonious interviews to the B.B.C
    9) Tell it like it is.
    10) Make England a Great team and thus make the comments of Gerald Sinstat
    	(Spell ?) Jimmy Hill et al... ,for once, ring true !
    
    You need an "Our Jack" ! But you can't have him !!!
    
    El Tel is you're only man.
    
    Lose on wednesday (for your own good) and offer El Tel a contract on
    Thursday !!!!!
    
    
    An impartial Celt.
                       

    Good list, good choice, but you missed a couple of things out.
    
    1) Be able to pick the same team for two consecutive matches, when
       injuries are not a problem.
    2) Play the players in their natural positions. I believe this trend
       was started by Taylors predecessor who had Hoddle as his third choice
       keeper at one stage.
    3) Someone who believes that FA stands for football Association, and
       not what the team are expected to win.
    4) Someone who has some tactics that do not involve kick and chase.
    
    Rich.

    Re .18,
    
    	Your list sounds really good but
    
    
    4) Have the respect of players, fans & general public
	Through Management career & likeable personality).
    7) Encourage a good brand of football.
    
    
    	But these two points could never be applied to Jack Charlton.
    
    
    
    	I think Ossie Ardilles fits the bill. And why not an Argentinian?
    

    
    re: .19
    
    This to me is the *MOST* important of all, allow the players to play
    how they play week in week out, not to re-learn in a week for a one-off
    game.

The best England captain over the last twenty years, and gaining
good management skills via Bristol and QPR

Roy Hodgson - Manager of Switzerland. Switzerland should be going to the World
Cup for the first time in 28 years...

Down to earth, popular with the players. Good tactician (Anyone who can take
Gothenburg to the final of the European Cup must have something going for
them!). Likeable, unlikely to be ruffled by the press. Consistent....

Only thing against him is that he is an ex-F.E. - still, can't have everything!

cheers

-Steve

    
    re: .23
    
    Now there's food for thought !
    
    Peter (An Impartial Celt).

    
    Having seen the team announced for tomorrow night's game...
    
    
    	
    	
    	**  ANYONE  **   will do a better job!

    
    
    >> Only thing against him is that he is an ex-F.E. - still, 
    >> can't have everything!
    
    Steve, I think he only played for the F.E. reserves so it's not so
    bad. 
    
    He also a great motivator. I never known a Swiss team with so much
    self belief(sp).
    
    
    Paul

    
>    Steve, I think he only played for the F.E. reserves so it's not so
>    bad. 
    
    Wash your fingers out. He's a good Sarf London boy ( like myself ) and good
    luck to him.



    Stuart

    
    Stuart.
    
    Did he play for Palaces' first team.?  Born and bred in Croydon wasn't
    he?. Dad was a bus driver I think. No it's not meant to be sarky :)
    
    btw The Swiss think he's the next best thing to cheese full of holes.
    
    P

                      <<< Note 324.28 by IMAPC::MURRAY >>>

    
>    Stuart.
    
>    Did he play for Palaces' first team.?  Born and bred in Croydon wasn't
>    he?. Dad was a bus driver I think. No it's not meant to be sarky :)
    
>    btw The Swiss think he's the next best thing to cheese full of holes.
    
>    P



I don't think he ever graced the hallowed turf in the first eleven ( as 
a previous noter pointed out he only made the stiffs ). As to his
dad being a bus driver - well at least he made it - a certain person
failed his test to be a bus conductor.


Stuart

    
    	How about putting G Taylor in at No. 10, his side-kick Lawrie
    at No. 11, and then getting Messers Major and Clark to manange
    England?
    
    	Things certainly couldn't get worse, could they!
    
    JBG

    Well when Taylor does the decent thing and resigns ( some hope... ! )
    the FA will do the right thing and appoint a good manager with a proven
    track record. ( fat chance of that as well )
    
    The only man for the job is Terry Venables. But cos of his dodgy
    dealings, the FA probably won't touch him.  
    
    Unfortuately, I think Keegan, will get it. - No disrespect to Newcastle
    cos he's done a great job there, but he's only been in Management a
    couple of years, 
    
    No, it's got to be Venables. Of course he'd have to have Clougie as a
    right-hand man, and Lou Macari and Peter Storey to complete new England
    Management Team.
    
    :-) 

Re .32

Mr Lindley - is this your first ever written venture into footy notes ?

:-)

According to the radio up here this morning, William Hill's have made
Howard Wilkinson favourite.... bad news for Leeds.

Paul

    RE: .33
    
    Hello Paul. Yes I know, I've been in read-only mode for too long, but
    after last nights game, the sooner Taylor goes the better.
    
    Wilkinson as England Manager. God I hope not. Bad news for Leeds, and
    he would not a good England Manager either ! Can you imagine some of
    the post-match interviews. Remember that one after Leeds got beat 3-0
    by Stuttgart..???? :-)
    
    No Venables is a master at tactics, the one-off game, motivating
    players - he's the one for the job. Pity he won't get it.
    
    Brian

Venables won't be offered it, Atkinson wouldn't take it, Clough's out of the
picture (and is a sad old wino), Graham has no chance, Keegan says he's not
interested (and he's got a stupid haircut anyway)...

Oh dear, oh dear, is there no hope for English football?

Wait...

A ray of sunshine breaks uncertainly through the melancholic gloom. It's a
glimmer of future glories, a heavenly hint of pastures green and pleasant...

It can't be. It is...

It's Glenn Hoddle to the rescue.

Come on Glenn. We'll forgive you for Diamond Lights, we'll even overlook all the
dismal tune wastelands that were your other "hits".

Your country needs you (and, unlike Chelsea, deserves you).

I can but dream,

Mike

    
    
    Actually,
    
            I'd support a move towards Hoddle.
    
            Gazzer

	I've got just two words to say on the subject.	
	
	Lennie Lawrence.



	Ian.

    
    Or,
    
    	Ian Branfoot...
    
    Nige

    I heard on the radio this morning that Jack Charlton could be
    interested.We need someone who will say what he thinks and adopt
    his own ideas and not be owned by the F.A. I don't think Jack is
    the man for the job but he's the type of character we need.Agreed??

     Big Jack would make a great England manager. He does things his way and
since he took the Ireland job, he has done exceptionally well. Even in defeat
the other night, he was very funny saying "I don't think I will enjoy my pint
of guinness tonight". Taylor would never be so funny after a defeat.

If Ireland fail to make the finals or after the finals, Charlton will probably
quit and Mick McCarthy is my favourite to take the job. Basically, Charlton
would like the job of managing England but the timing won't suit as England
look doomed and our boys will probably go to the USA.


C U N N O  ( who knows his football inside out).

For years now it has been traditional to appoint an experienced manager who 
has had recent success at club level. We have been a good international side 
but never quite there.

Let's go for something new. Appoint someone in the European mould, a recently 
retired/end of career type player who has been around the international scene 
for a long time, knows the attitude requires for the big games, the away 
games, the pressure. Platini and Beckenbauer are two names who have done this 
and succeeded.

I'd love to see someone like Robson, Wilkins, or Hoddle - or even Peter 
Shilton, take the reigns, but I don't think the FA will be brave enough.

Andy.

I hear Roy of the Rovers is back on the streets. At least he'd be
able to handle the press.

Re .41... Andy, Platini and Beckenbauer were both excellent players, but only
          Beckenbauer had success at manager level with Germany. Agreed France
          were very impressive during the qualifiers leading up to Sweeden last
          year, but they failed very badly in Sweeden even though they were one
          of the pre-favourites. Both enjoy seeing attacking football similar to
          what Cruyff is doing at Barcelona and Sacchi in Italy.

                                                                     -dave-          

Any hear some T.V. program Wilko was on this morning?  He, in so many words said,
that if it were to become available that he wouldn't be adverse to accepting the
job.  

It seems he has been getting involved in the England scene in an unofficial 
capacity for a few years now.  As someone on the Leeds mailing list said: "our 
two best managers could both have left to take over the England reins".  I for one
would be the sadder for losing Wilko.

                                 James.  

    What's actually wrong with Turnip Taylor? I'm not defending him but
    he's done OK really. It was'nt his fault Shearer, Sharpe, Palmer (and
    me an Owls fan) played like turds.
    
    I could see good logic in all his position decisions. Give the man a
    chance ...

    
    
    Sunday papers ran a pole on whom it should be... here it is..
    
    
    Of 1200 people polled after Engalns defeat in Holland 37% of people
    voted Franz Beckanbauer as top International manager, while of the
    English contingent - Newcastles Kevin Keegan polled 33%. 5% ahead of
    Glen Hoddle. Bookies favourite Howard Kendal got only 10% of the votes. 
    
    55% of people voted for a unified Great Britain team .
    
    48% of people reckon Poland can beat Holland 1-0 and England will beat
    San Marino by 7.
    
    28% of people reckon that Graham Taylor should stay as England boss.
    A bigger percentage balme the players and not the manager.
    
    
    THE KEY QUESTIONS.
    
    1. Should Taylor go ?.
    A. Now - 47%. End of Season - 25%. Stay - 28%
    
    2. Who would be the ideal replacement ?.
    A. Hoddle - 28%. Keegan - 33%. Wilkinson - 10%. Francis(T) 16%
       Bryan Robson 13%.
    
    3. Who is to blame for Englands failure ?.
    A. Taylor 32%. F.A. 32% Players 36%.
    
    4. Should Ian Wright have started the match ?.
    A. Yes 55%  NO 45%.
    
    5. Who are Englands world class players ?.
    A. Gascoigne 26% Platt 43% Ferdinand 10% Wright 7% Shearer 14%
    
    6. Who would make the best foreign boss ?.
    A. Ardiles 12% Cruyff 16% Beckanbauer 37% Graham 7% Dalglish 28%.
    
    7. Should we have a Great Britain team ?.
    A. Yes 55% No 45%
    
    8. Can Poland beat Holland ?.
    A. Yes 48% No 52%
    
    9. Can we hit seven against San Marino ?.
    A. Yes 48% No 52%
    
    10. In Englands absence where will your loyalties lie ?.
    A. Republic of Ireland 38% Wales 62%.
    
    
    
    
    Thats it.
    
    - Gazzer -
    
    

    
    Huh, Beckenbauer....dream on....
    
    There are two countries which I would consider to be the last to have
    a non-national manager....1. The country that need Beckenbauer (i.e.
    England) 2. The country of Beckenbauer's origin (i.e. Germany)...
    
    These two nations are I'd say a 'little' too proud to admit not having
    a manager of the required credentials from the home turf...
    
    Dezzz.

    
    After hearing Kevin Keegan's interview on Grandstand on Saturday,
    there's no doubt about it, this is the man for the job. 
    
    I would understand Newcastle fans being gutted if he left, as he will 
    get them back at the top, but his country needs him...
    
    Dave...

    
    Does he get a choice? ie maybe he doesn't want the job.
    
    Tim

One of Keegan's great assets is his ability to speak in whole sentences - very 
rare in footballers and managers. Unfortunately, this is just the sort of 
thing the FA look for in a manager! Personally (what me biased?!), I'd like to 
see him win a few major trophies with his club first!

grahame

    
    Re-1
    
    I'm not disputing that, of course he's happy at Newcastle, but dont
    forget Keegan has made no secret of his desire to manage England in 
    the past.
    
    Dave...

    Every respect for what he's done in the last two and half years up in
    Newcastle but management before that ...? He's still a green lad from
    Scunny - and did you get how he was angling to take himself and
    McDermott to the throne?

    
    Who said you need managerial experience......???
    
    Platini and Beckanbauer didnt have any managerial experience at all 
    ( I dont think ), and were thrown in at the deep end.
    
    It's about time we took a risk or two, anyway managers that have
    won trophies in this country have gone on to manage the national side
    and have done nothing for the last 27 years.
    
    Dave...
     

    re .52
    
    I personally don't think he *was* angling for the job, but he probably
    did more in that interview to convince the right people that he *is*
    the man for the job. I, for one, hope he doesn't do it, but I can't
    help feeling he'd just passed the interview on Grandstand. His ideas
    were spot on and he came across with passion and conviction. God help
    Newcastle now!
    
    Cheers....Ned

All the top managers seem to be ruling themselves out, or at least declaring
their disinterest. Personally, I think it's a disgrace. Surely managing England
must be one of the top jobs in world soccer. We are, after all, previous World
Cup winners and there's not many teams that can say that. And we would have won
in (insert year here) if it wasn't for cheating opponents.

I say we should start looking elsewhere if the top nobs don't want it. How about
Alan Buckley, who has led Grimsby Town (described by 90 Minutes as the Brazil of
English football) from the nether regions of the Butlins South Humberside and
Skegness District Sunday League to the dizzy heights of the First Division top
ten, without so much as two shiny farthings to rub together?

He'd be perfect. And it'd get him out of Grimsby so he'd be grateful unlike
so-called patriots Keegan, Francis, Charlton, et al.

Mike

On The 606 show on saturday someone had a good idea.

Just say England don't make it to the U.S.A. next year ( No chance :-) ), then 
England will not have a competetive match for 2� years ( Nov. 17th 1993 to Jun
1996 ). It would be a total waste of time for Keegan to take over on the
18/11/93 when Grayhair Failure is sacked. It would be far more productive to
have a caretaker manager put in place with say Keegan becoming more involved as
time goes by.

As has been said he is still green, and playing friendlies for 2 years will not
allow him to mature into the manager that we all believe he is going to become
in a couple of years. We must remember he has not even been in management for 2
years yet, and he should be allowed to remain at Newcastle for a couple of years
more, when he'll be ready to take on the mantle of England manager.

Al

Also heard on the show that Graham Taylor is wanted for P.M. by MPs who are
against Maastrict. They say he is the man most likely to get us out of Europe

    
    
    I would say the next 2/3 years without any competative matches is the
    perfect time for a new manager with new ideas to come in and start
    building for the future with the young talent that we have available.
    
    There wouldnt be the pressure of having to qualify for anything, and he
    would be free to try what he wanted.
    
    Dave... 

    There was an interview in The Mail on Sunday with Bobby Robson whose
    view was that Graham Taylor should stay. His argument being that it
    takes at least 2 years for any club manager to come to terms with the
    job of international manager and at least GT has gone through that
    process, made mistakes and should have learned from them. If a new
    manager is put in then he would have to go through learning process and
    we'd be back where we started.
    
    BTW I'm not endorsing this view, just reporting it.
    
    Richard Bell

	How about playing the current Under-21 in full internationals. 
	By the time we get back to the proper stuff, they'll all be well 
	rounded internationals with time on their side, capable of being 
	the fathers of a new era, a new dawning of a truly great dynasty 
	of English football, a return to the halycon days, when people 
	believed, when dreams came true, when anything was possible, 
	when...  [Blimey he's completely lost it! - Ed.]

    What money is on offer compared to a successful club manager ?
    
    Apart from track-suits any other perks ?

What about actually having an England team that takes part in the Premiership?
At least they would get lots of practice, and we are always moaning that England
don't play as a team. We could appoint Barry Fry to be manager, and give him as
much money as he wants on the understanding that he only buys English players.
It's perfect.

And we'd be able to enter them for the European Cup and stuff AC Milan. Hurrah!

Mike

    If Wales don't get to the U.S.A then why not start up the home
    internationals again ? Maybe each year, one or two other teams who
    haven't reached the finals could join in, say France or Poland. That
    way, there would still be competitive national matches. Somehow I
    cannot imagine the Welsh, and their racist BBC not getting hyped up
    about taking on England, at the Arms Park. We do it with the rugby, why
    not the soccer ?
    
    Rich. 

    re .59
    
    How many of the current England team ever played for the U-21's?
    
    Not trying to be funny here
    
    Ray,,,,

	re: .61

	Mike,

	Isn't that what the Soviet boys did with Dynamo Kiev about 10 
	years ago? It didn't work because they wwere playing too often.

	Ian.

	How's about combining several of the previous ideas together:

	If it takes a couple of years to "gain experience" as Bobby Robson says,
then the new guy should be in there NOW, gaining this International Managerial
experience during this "friendly / not-too-critical" period.

	There seems to be a lot of folk who like the idea of Keegan, but say he
lacks experience as a top manager. So, why not give him the job of the
England manager whilst letting him continue at Newcastle ? He would be gaining 
experience on both fronts. If he doesn't prove himself at Newcastle, then 
there's time to look elsewhere.
	I know its not _quite_ the same, but its working quite well in Rugby
League, with Mal Reilly (Halifax & Great Britain).


	Personally, I would have a combo (sorry, cunno!) of, say,
Ron Atkinson & Keegan (or Brian Robson, Hoddle, Ardiles ...).
You'e got the best of both worlds that way & when Atkinson retires the other
guy takes over & we get another one in to be groomed.


	Another point nobody seems to have picked up on. I beleive we will 
NEVER get anywhere with the dead-wood at the F.A. Its not just Graham Taylor 
we need rid of (I'm NOT defending him!), after all he is only a yes-man - 
we need to get shut of that other plonker Graham Kelly, 
	AND Peter Swales AND ... [contd. P94]



Dave (phew, I'm knackered now!)

    All these notes are very interesting but mostly subjective. Let's make
    it more scientific. Score club players on their club performances week
    in week out. Those players with the best cumulative scores play for
    England.
    
    This way you get the players who are in form. There is none of the old 
    controversy like 'Why on earth didn't he pick Waddle'. It might lead to
    new controversy like 'Who the bloody hell is he?' but this is a way to
    get in new life to the team (also have a handicapped score system for
    the lower divisions).  This would relieve the 'new' manager from
    selecting a team and enable him OR HER (feel a new note coming on) to
    "manage" the given resources.
    
    - Simon
                           

   For Turnip Taylor's last game against San Marino, I would like to see 
England win about 10-0.....................and in the other game Poland are
leading 1-0, the ref plays about 5 mins injury time and the Dutch win a 
disputed penalty totally against the run of play and score to draw the
game and thus qualify for the finals.

Now that would be sweet...........................

        C 
        U
    C U N N O
        N 
        O

RE .66

>    selecting a team and enable him OR HER (feel a new note coming on) to
>   "manage" the given resources.    ^^^^^^


	Has anybody asked Cheri Lunghi (sp ?) yet?????

	Eduard :-) :-)

    
    
     re .55
    
    "And we would have won in (insert year here) if it wasn't for cheating
    opponents."
    
    Oh no, not that old chestnut again!!! I presume your talking about
    Maradona taking the p*ss out of Engerland in 1986. If I remember
    correctly, that was a quarter-final. What makes you think Engerland
    would have went on to win the Cup that year if they had beaten 
    Argentina? 
    
    Of course, Engerland would never stoop to such underhand tactics (or
    was it overhand) to win a game, they play by the rules all the time.
    Why don't you accept that Engerland don't have any right to win games,
    if players on other teams get away with bending the rules, then so
    what? Decisions sometimes go against you, ie Maradona and Koeman, but
    they also go with you, remember 1966 :-). Learn to accept defeat, no
    matter how unjust you feel it may be.
    
     Danny. 

    RE .67
     Would that be the same ref, who did the game where Man U were playing
    Sheffield Wednesday ?
    
    Rich.
    
    
    
    p.s. 
    
    Cunno, you are a sadistic little man. ;-)
    
    anyway, I'd rather England won 0 - 6 and Holland lost 1 - 0 then I
    would laugh.

    re: .69 
    
    >Oh no, not that old chestnut again!!! I presume your talking
    >about Maradona taking the p*ss out of Engerland in 1986. If I remember
    >correctly, that was a quarter-final. What makes you think Engerland
    >would have went on to win the Cup that year if they had beaten 
    >Argentina? 
    
    >Of course, Engerland would never stoop to such underhand tactics (or
    >was it overhand) to win a game, they play by the rules all the time.
    >Why don't you accept that Engerland don't have any right to win games,
    >if players on other teams get away with bending the rules, then so
    >what? Decisions sometimes go against you, ie Maradona and Koeman, but
    >they also go with you, remember 1966 :-). Learn to accept defeat, no
    >matter how unjust you feel it may be.
    
    Now, go back and read .55 again *very slowly* and then ask yourself
    whether the author was talking seriously or having a wee joke
    (autoirony, you might wish to call it).
    
    Obviously, subtlety is dead.
    
    Dom
    

    Ted Dexter anyone? Shortly to become available.
    
    Andy

    
    what about the man who refereed the game against the Dutch,
    
    
    according to Bob (smiley) Wilson , who had an even broader smile this
    morning, the German referee has been removed from his international
    refereeing duties, due to the incompetent performance in Rotterdam
    
    	:-))

    Someone whose name I am surprised that I haven't seen mentioned before 
    with regard to this job is Steve Coppell. I would have thought that he 
    has the same qualifications as Keegan, Hoddle and Francis ( both Trevor 
    and Gerry ) in that he has played at the highest level and has been in 
    management for a few years now.
    
    Terry

    His qualifications are not really that good. I believe he led palace to
    numerous glories last year ;-)
    
    Hoddle is the man.
    
    Rich.

I don't normally note here, but here goes....

I watched, with interest, the Sport in Question special on ITV last night 
and was intrigued by Jimmy Greaves' reaction to the suggestion of a 
non-English England manager.  

Would the appointment of say George Graham, Alex Ferguson or Kenny 
Dalgleish really be such a "disaster" as JG put it ?   Surely these are 
three of the most successful managers in English football in recent years - 
and all of them Scots.

Now two points immediately spring to mind :

1. Perhaps those named above would turn down the offer.

2. Greaves is a bit of an idiot at the best of times.


So what do the panel think ?  Should non-Englishmen be considered for the 
job ?


Mark

    re- non english manager
    
    I wouldn't mind applying for the job....where do I send my CV?
    
    just to keep the Englsh happy, I'd have Ned Kelly as my No,2

    Beckenbauer was asked about the speculation during half-time at the
    Norwich game last night. He laughed !! and said he's quite happy living
    in Kitzbuhl and sees no need to change his lifestyle. He's not
    interested.

    re - .79
    
    But the bad news is he suggested KK as the man for the job.
       
    
    ps (.78) - Ray I accept, it's the only job offer I'm likely to get!
    
    Ned

    
    I would prefer the manager of the national team to be English. 
    
    Dave... 

    I'm probably saying what is said else where but I don't think it
    matters who is in charge as long as Millichip, Swales, Kelly etc have a
    majority say. I'm not exactly anti establishment but think of the
    English FA as a Public Company. They have just published there results
    for the last two years. On seeing these results the share holders, [The
    English Public] would rightly call an extraordinary shareholders meeting
    and oust the board of Management. Then, they would elect who they feel
    would be best suited to fulfill their requirements.
    
    An interesting idea eh? Well if this happened then all the names you
    have quoted in this note would, and could play a part. Why not have an
    executive committee of Bobby Robson,[he's been through it and has
    European experience now], Brian Clough, [he's a little old and past it
    but could still be their in a consultant type role], Alf Ramsey, been
    there and done it, and Graham Kelly, [At least he is an administrator].
    Then have a England Management team of Hoddle, Wilkins, Robson [Bryan],
    and Keegan. Keegan should be the Managing Director but each should have
    responsibility, in their own right for part of the England set up. I.E.
    Hoddle =Schools 	They would then learn to play the game properly.
    Wilkins= Under 18/Youth		ditto
    Robson = Under 21/23	Install passion and fire to compliment the 
    				Wilkins and Hoddle Skills
    Keegan = England		The man for the hour.
    
    Remember that the England manager is also the English F.A. Coach. He
    helps set the direction of the F.A's coaching methods in the schools,
    coaching clinics etc etc. Do away with this and utilise the Exec
    Committee. They have the experience.
    
    Finally, the one man I'd like to find a place for but can't is Terry
    Venables. Dodgy deals aprt he is a great coach, and could probably
    perform that role assisting all the team managers, but especially
    Keegan. He is the motivator, TV the coach.
    
    Still, the F.A appears to be a private club and as such sets its own
    rules so I exzpect nowt to change and someone like Howard Wilkinson or
    Bobby Gould to get the job under the present regime. Because they'd
    want it and not rok the boat too much!
    
    My two penneth worth!
    
    Mark G
     
                                           

    
    	I thought Kelly was the chairman of the PFA. But then I'm useless
    with names. Whoever is the chairman of the PFA, was on telly last
    Saturday along with Malcolm Allison, Phil Thompson and some newspaper
    johnny from the Daily Mail. It was a very interesting conversation and
    whoever is the PFA man, sounded like a really sensible bloke.
    

    
    Well, will we get the revolution in English Football, that was talked
    about by Bert Millichip ?.
    
    Surley even the prehistoric FA bods must be able to see that there is
    something seriously wrong with English Football. According to most of
    the papers, the FA want a partneship, a young manager (keegan, Wilkins,
    Hoddle .....) to be helped by someone of experience. Here's where the
    problem start, who's the man for the job of the senior partner ?. Bobby
    Robson is being mentioned more and more.
    
    The bookies still make Howard Wilkinson favourite, but he goes against
    everything Bert Millichip has stated, he's just another safety first,
    moderatley successfull, Premier division manager, whose face fits.
    
    Lets hope we are put out of our misery soon, and Taylor either does the
    honourable thing and resign's or he is asked to leave the job.
    
    Dave...
    
    

    Last night, in TV interviews, both Taylor and Graham Kelly said that 
    they would be talking to each other over the next few days and that any 
    announcement would come from the F.A. rather than Taylor. Kelly also said 
    that, if such an announcement did come, it would be in a matter of weeks 
    rather than days.
    
    	Terry

As well as Taylor, why not get rid of Swales, Kelly, and Millichip. These are
the people that keep picking the cr*p managers.

�@

    
    
    I couldn't believe it when I heard Swales was involved with the England
    scene. Makes sense really doesn't it.
    
    
    GAzzer

    Let's face it. The weakness of the English approach to soccer was
    exposed in the early 1950s when England lost 6-3 at home to Hungary.
    Everybody knows the England team needs to play in a different style,
    but nobody knows how to make that happen.
    
    England's winning�of the World Cup in 1966 was just an aberrant point
    in a downward trend, like DEC stock rising to $47 a couple of months
    ago.
    
    Dismal of Spitbrook

    
    The latest is that Peter Swales wants to keep Graham Taylor in
    charge........
    
    Dave...

    
    re: -1 
    
    Good one ! Ha Ha...
    
    You are joking aren't you !?
                       
    Peter(An Impartial Celt).

    
    >> You are joking aren't you !?

    
>>    >> You are joking aren't you !?
	It may or may not be a joke for Graham TAYLOR, but it is certainly
	already happened to Gerard HOUILLER (the french manager). He got
	confirmed to stay at his place yesterday by the french football
	association. He will be allowed to stay there until the end of his
	current contract (June 1994). 

	Wouldn't it just be simple, fair, normal to give him the sack now,
	and give his successor another year or so to start working on the
	next flavor of the team, with no competitive pressure, before being
	asked to qualify for the next European campaign in 1996?

	You have to wonder what those FA dinosaurs (French and England) do
	smoke during their meetings, let us use some of that to face our
	(Digital) internal turmoils...

	What a load of rubbish!!!

								.Andre.

    
    So now that Graham Taylor has done the honorable thing, it looks like
    England will have a temporary manager for the games against Denmark in
    Feb and Germany in April. Don Howe seems to be the favourite to get
    this position. Terry Venables is ther man for this job...
    
    What I cant believe is that the FA must have known this was coming, but 
    we still have to wait and wait and wait....I wonder if the three stooges 
    can actually fit discussions about a new England manager into their
    busy schedules...?
    
    Dave...           

    What's the hurry? As you said, they're only going to appoint a
    temporary manager to cover for the 2 games against Denmark and Germany.
    
    Nothing can really be achieved until they appoint the real manager at
    the end of the season.
    
    Dave.

    
    >> What's the hurry?
    
     How about sorting out the mess our Football is in.
    
    The sooner the better imo.
    
    Dave...

I think some FA git waas saying that they wouldn't appoint another manager until
early next year on telly last night.

Mike

>    What I cant believe is that the FA must have known this was coming, but 
>    we still have to wait and wait and wait....
    
    They did know as Taylor is said to have told them of his decision
    within 24 hours of the San Marino game.
    
    Steve Coppell, Howard Wilkinson and Kevin Keegan are the favourites
    with the bookies.
    
    Terry
    

    
    To be quite honest I don't think it matters who is appointed the
    next England manager. If you don't have the players you can't be
    successful. It's about time the English media/supporters realised
    that simple fact and lowered their expectations accordingly. 
    England have never been a CONSISTENT world force and it amazes me how
    you continually expect to be successful. You simply don't have any
    world class players. (Gascoigne could be if he wasn't a fool.) 
    
    The English league is certainly a strong one but thats only because
    of the number of foreigners playing. By foreign I include players from
    other parts of the UK as well as Europe. I doubt very much if Man Utd
    would have won last years championship if they had to have fielded 11
    Englishmen week in week out. Get the point ? 
    
    It's time to get realistic people.
    
    Del.    
                                                

     re: 98  Yawn....
    
    The players are there you fool...
    
    Neil...

>     How about sorting out the mess our Football is in.
    
>    The sooner the better imo.
    
    I agree with that, but you were complaining about the time its taking
    the FA to appoint a temporary manager. Who cares?
    
    Dave.

    
    Re.100
    
    No I wasnt, I'm complaining about having a temporary manager in the
    first place. It has to be sorted, and a tempoary manager only prolong's
    the mess.
    
    Dave...

    
    re..99
    
    Now don't get personal, if you can't be constructive keep it shut.
    
    If the players are there..name them. IMO you lack genuine world class
    players. Thats the main reason your not going to the W.C and why you'll 
    be 2nd rate for many years to come. Of the players that played against
    San Marino how many would you say were world class ?
    
    Del.

    Given that none of the possible candidates (with the exception of
    Venables who no longer has a real chance) are likely to take the job
    before the end of the season, they don't have much choice.
    
    Dave.

    
    Now listen here you Muppet...The likes of of Shearer,Platt,Ince and maybe
    Pallister you could even throw in Pearce Wright, would walk into ANY 
    international side....Jesus, I can't belive I'm rising to the bait your
    dangling...Then we have the up and coming players Barmby, Anderton,
    Jones, Cole,Fowler all could prospect and these are off the top of
    my head.....There is a wealth of talent...
    
    Neil...

    
    re. 104
    
    How can you be taken seriously when you start your last note with....
    "Now listen here you Muppet". Such intellectual noting !  
    
    I regard players such as Baggio,Van Basten,Gullit,Romario etc as world
    class. Saying players such as Platt,Pallister,Pearce would walk into
    any International side is simply nonesense. They just don't compare
    and never will. Good professionals yes...world class they aren't.
                                                         
    Del.  
    

    I agree with Del.  England are crap.  Lets face it.  We have some great
    players like Gascoigne, Platt and Shearer but thats as far as it goes. 
    England's defence leaks too many goals.  Ince is a good player but not
    in the class of the likes of Baggio, Van Basten.  Wright is a superb 
    player for Arsenal but hasn't made any impact on the International side.  
    Why Taylor never picked Cole is beyond me.  He is the most inform
    striker in the country and yet he still doesn't make the first 11.
    
    At the moment English football is the pits.  As Bryan Robson said "If
    we don't do something quickly then even Turkey will be better than us".
    
    
    GAry..... (The Impartial Soapboxer)
                                                                      

     Going by the News at Ten last night It's not the Managers fault,it's
    not the lack of world class players.The Person to blame for England 
    not going to the USA was of course the Ref in the Holland game. 
    
    
    SCott
    

    
    Of course Platt can be considered World Class his record speaks for
    it's self. Clubs have payed transfer fee's almost totaling 20million
    pounds he's scored 20 goals in 36 international appearances,  he's
    scoring record in supposidly one of the best leagues in the world
    is quite honestly World class....
    
    Neil...
     

He was certainly on top form against San Marino. 8-)

The only world class players in England are Glenn Hoddle and Tony Daley (on his
day).

Mike

P.S. Aargh. Does this mean I agree with Gary Waite?

    Re 109
    
    Yes it does Mikey:-)))  
    
    
    
    
    Gary

Oh crap.

Pass the noose

Mike

    
    re: .109 
    
    1/ Tony 9 the headless chicken) Daly. come off it !
    2/ IMHO the players are there to produced a decent *not* great team.
    3/ Keegan for Pope.
    
    Peter(Am Impartial Celt).

Headless chicken? You are insulting the supreme genius of footballing flair and
acknowledged master of smart haircuts involving bald patches and random outcrops
of tufty black stuff.

Clearly you have never sat in Villa Park on a cold winter's day watching the
Sultan of Style swerving his way down the wing leaving tormented defenders in
his wake. Or, like me, sat in front of the telly watching him run very fast for
no apparent reason. It is a joy to behold.

Wash your mouth out with soap and water, or I'll have to send you another of my
dwindling video collection. 8-)

Mike

    Re. .104, .105 etc
    
    	I disagree with both Neil & Del. Your statement, Neil, that the "likes
    of of Shearer,Platt,Ince and maybe Pallister you could even throw in 
    Pearce Wright, would walk into ANY international side" is a bit
    sweeping. I agree that they could get into some international sides but
    certainly not all (eg. Shearer & Wright wouldn't get into the Dutch
    side but would probably be welcomed by Poland)
    
    	Del's idea of a World Class player is also somewhat unrealistic.
    Name me one international side where ALL the players are of the quality
    of Van-Basten, Gullit, Baggio etc. Its really a question of how we define
    a "World Class" player. Is a player who plays for Germany for example
    (current World Champions) automatically classed as a world class player??
    The players such as Gullit and Van Basten (from Del's list) are something
    special. A team full of such players would be exceptional.
    
    	International managers have to take the best individuals from their
    country and mould them into a team. If you look at the best players
    available to England currently and compare them to those available to
    Italy, Germany, Holland etc, I personally don't think England come out
    too far behind (with the likes of Cole, Beardsley, Waddle, Platt, Gasgoine,
    Walker, etc).
    	England failed this time primarily because the manager
        a) IMO didn't pick the best available to him
        b) Failed to mould those he did pick into a team
    and c) Failed to motivate those players
    
    IMO the players are there. There's no question there have to be changes
    in English football generally (less league games etc), but the individuals
    are still there.

                     <<< Note 324.104 by PEKING::COSSEYN >>>
    
>>  The likes of of Shearer,Platt,Ince and maybe
>>  Pallister you could even throw in Pearce Wright, would walk into ANY 
>>  international side...

    Neil,
          The players you mention are good enough players but definately not
world class. Pallister is an average blood & guts defender with little style.
Pearse has reached his sell by date and Wright hasn't done the buisness for
England. The only truly world class players in the Eng league are the likes of
Aldo, Whelan, Beardsley, Barnes. I reckon the next England manager should 
go back to Barnes & Beardsley on the wings with Cole & Fowler up front.

My team would be as follows:

                           Coton

 Jones           Ruddock        Wright                   Dorigo


                  Platt               Ince
Beardsley                                                Barnes


                  Cole                Fowler 


  C U N N O 

    
    Now Terry Cooper has resigned from Birmingham, I suppose he's available
    for the England job...
    
    - Dave

    I've said it once and I'll say it till he's there - VIV ANDERSON is our
    ticket to footballing world dominance and respect
    
    Simon - Owls fan, but Viv Anderson fan wherever he went

    Interesting proposal from the Millwall chairman in todays Standard (he
    is also on the selection panel)
    
    - Allow the England manager to get a squad of 15-18 players
      *permanently* for the 18 months leading up to a major tournament.
    
    - A max of one from any one club, and compensation for clubs concerned
    
    - Players to play as a team in cups and possibly the league
    
    You can imagine the conversation:
    
    FA	Hello, Kenny, we want Alan Shearer for 18 months
    KD	*#*!*!* off
    FA	OK, how about Batty?
    KD	*@$@#@%
    FA	Flowers?
    KD	No Way!
    FA	OK, how about Mimms for $10k per week?
    KD	Deal!
    
    Paul
    

    
    	I hope that man is happy running Millwall, the chances of him being
    allowed to play with anything serious, like a box of matches or a sharp
    implement, are very remote.
    
    	Incidentally your scenario was slightly inaccurate, Kenny is not
    that articulate.
    
    	Cheers,
    
    p.s. Blackburn can already field a team of eleven englishmen !
      
    

    Has anyone out there thought that the reason the FA are not rushing
    into naming an England manager is that they are waiting to see the
    result of the Venables case ??? It seems to fit. If he is found
    innocent then I believe he will get the job.
    
    
    Rich.
    
    if not, then Mr Blobby for manager. I'd rather have a pink and yellow
    blob than an inanimate vegetable.

    
    Maybe it's because nobody's rushing to apply for the job ?
    
    Peter(An Impartial Celt).

	There is a person English to the core, with proven leadership
	potential, and currently not in regular work.

	What I want to know is, "Why has the F.A. not already approached
	Margaret Thatcher?"

	Tony

    Exactly Tony,
    
    She was my suggestion in .14 and I still suspect that there may be some
    pressure applied to get her on the bench at Wembley (she was never very
    comfortable in the backbenches !).
    
    
    (I suppose they could also put her in Goal. She shouldn't have any
    trouble getting the defense to play offside - "Out, Out, Out !!!"). (-;
    
    
    
    Jerry.

    Yeah, but training would be murder, what with No U turns etc......
    
    ....plus she wouldn't want any 'wets' playing for her, so we'd have
    most of 'killer' Wimbeldon playing for England.
    
    ...after each goal she'd run round the pitch shouting 'Rejoice,
    Rejoice' while looking for her son who'd be in the ground, but
    lost somewhere in the crowd!
    
    -Dom :-)

     Mebbe they are waiting till the close of the season to see how
     available messrs Keegan etc are going to be ?.
    
    
    Gazzer 

    
    Interesting comment made by Peter Beardsley on Football focus on
    Saturday. When asked how good a manager Kevin Keegan is, Beardsley
    replied " Brilliant....probably too good, as it looks like we might
    be losing him....". When Bob Wilson jumped on this he tried to cover 
    it up by saying he was the peoples choice.
    
    Maybe I'm reading too much into this...????
    
    Dave...

    
    I think you are. Simple slip of the tongue.

    Seems to me that Howard Kendall has recently given himself the
    opportunity to talk to the grand old men of the F.A.
    
    Looks like the kind of man who they would consider reasonably safe ?  
    
    Cheers,
    
    Andy

    A friend of mine who I've not seen for a while has decided that whilst
    no household names want the jobs he feels he wants the responsibility.
    I have typed the job application and the FA's actual response.
    (Dated 3 dec)
    Dear Mr Kelly
    
    I would like to be considered for the post of England Manager.
    
    I am a loyal supporter anbd proud season ticket holder of Portsmouth
    Football Club so have obviously been brought up to appreciate the more
    subtle approach to the national game. Also I have had dealings with
    quite a few of our foreign friends on various holidays so I think I
    know what makes the little blighters tick.
    
    If you could swing it that Terry Venables is my second in command so
    much the better. 'El Tel' epitomises alll that is good in the game.
    He's not averse to greasing a few palms to smooth the way either.
    
    It's all systems go from this end, so just give me the nod and let's
    put the wheels back on the bandwagon and get it rolling again.
    
    Yours in Sport.
    
    
    ( Dated 6 Dec)
    Dear Mr *****
    
    I am in receipt of your recent letter regarding the post of England
    Manager.
    
    Please be assured that the contents have been read and noted. Should we
    wish to consider your application further we will contact you again.
    
    thank you for your interest
    
    Yours Sincerely,
    
    Graham Kelly
    
    
    Well it made me laugh. He is also sending a new mail to Ron Atkinson to
    be his assistant.
    
    Antony

	Sounds very much like an excerpt from 
	"The Henry Root Letters".

	Ian.

    
    So what is Graham Taylor doing now?? Well, if you live or work in
    Islington then keep an eye out for a bespectacled, short, stocky bloke
    with dark hair, sweeping the streets. I had to have several takes
    before I convinced myself that it wasn't him. I finally decided it
    wasn't him because he wasn't grinning inanely or muttering "That blonde
    man should not have been on the pitch...". 
    
    Paul.
    
    

    
    Loads of rumours that Sir Terry Venables is the new England manager.
    
    He is now the bookies favourite, and the "Sun" are so convinced, they
    have already announced he is the new man.......and will get a four year
    contract.
    
    Dave...
    
    
    

    re -1
    
    >He is now the bookies favourite, and the "Sun" are so convinced, they
    >have already announced he is the new man.......and will get a four year
    
    Must be true then.
    
    Paul.
    

    
    Well, according to Leed's chief scout who's a friend's, friend's,
    relative-in-law, Howard Wilkinson is to be the new England manager.
    Jimmy A. was at Leeds at the weekend and refused to state his business
    when quizzed.
    
    Tim.
    
    Ps, I'd appreciate it if you all didn't go around spreading this
    around, as I've promised the guy who told me that I wouldn't breath a 
    word about it to anyone.    

    
    Re:136
    The reason he was at Leeds was, because he was commentating for Radio 5
    as he does every Saturday..
    
    When the subject of the new England manager was brought up,
    Jimmy Armfield said "Whoever takes over, it will NOT interupt anyones
    season"...So with the new manager being named in the new year that
    counts out any manager currently employed.....Unless Armfield is
    lying...
    
    Neil.....
    

    
    
>   The reason he was at Leeds was, because he was commentating for Radio 5
>   as he does every Saturday..
    
    Sharp as a bowling ball again, Neil.

>    When the subject of the new England manager was brought up,
>    Jimmy Armfield said "Whoever takes over, it will NOT interupt anyones
>    season"...So with the new manager being named in the new year that
>    counts out any manager currently employed...

Looks like Graeme Souness or Glenn Hoddle then :-)

re last few..


  hot off the press.

  Jonathan Pearce.. new England manager.

  Aldridge Prior

    Or Blobby Gould.....
    

Reading Teletext last night, it looks like El Tel's going to be recommended by
Jimmy Armfield. Kelly said that there would be no rush in making any sort of
announcement ( So it will probably be announced today ;-) )

Al

    
    ...although Bert Millichip is apparently totally against the
    appointment of TV. So I suppose it will come down to whether Armfield
    and Kelly can talk the him round.
    
    Venables seems to be established as the firm favourite with almost 
    everyone now, apart from Millichip. Unfortunatly he's the man that 
    counts.
    
    Dave... 

	Last time I was in the U.K. I happened to see the TV special suggesting
	that Mr. Venables was not a man of financial probity. Has he been
	cleared of these allegations? Or has he paid off the right people?

	Tony

    
    I can see the F.A going for a partnership between Venables and Keegan.
    
    
    Andy.B

Looks like England are finally going to get a decent manager.
Bertie Milli-chip(brain) seems satisfied that Terry is a decent enough bloke.

What odds will you give me on England winning the Europeans in '96, lads ?

Well they're my tip anyway.
I'm putting my fiver on after the draw.


Good luck,

Peter(An Impartial Celt)

    
    You probably won`t get very good odds on that one.
    
    
    Because England will probably play all their games at Wembley,
    with biased referees and will no doubt romp the Europeans in
    1996.  Exactly the way they won the World Cup in 66`...!!!!
    
    Tam.
    
    

    
    Re.147
    YAWN, YAWN, YAWN.....You can always count on a bitter Scotsman to
    pull that one out of the bag....Wheather you like it or not in the 
    Footballing history books it will read ENGLAND WORLD CHAMPIONS 1966.
    It's because of this type of success that England are able to hold
    such prestigious events. 
    
    
    Yep, looks like England have finally got there man, Terry Venables
    will be named England manager sometime this week. Excellant choice
    and one things for sure England will play the game how it supposed
    to be played....At last the F.A have got something right....
    
    Imagine this lineup for Englands first match..
    
    Flowers
    Parker
    Adams
    Pallister
    Dorigo
    Platt
    Ince
    GAZZA
    Beardsley
    Cole
    Shearer
    
    World class or what it's a shame this side won't be graceing the U.S.A.
    Never mind lets look to the future which suddenly looks a lot brighter.
    
                  
    Neil...
    
    

    
    
    
    re last
    
    "World class or what...."
    
     YAWN, YAWN, YAWN. Typical nonsense from an Englander. Shearer, Cole
    and Beardsley are class acts, but world class, I think not. 
    
     How can you even consider that fat one to be world class. He's only 
    played a couple of dozen games since he brainlessly injured himself
    in the FA Cup final. One game a month don't make you world class.
    
     Danny.

    
    Re.149
    
    Andy Cole still has to prove himself at International level, but
    Beardsley doesnt have anything to prove and was discarded far to early
    by Graham Taylor, but then again Beardsley hardly fitted into Taylors
    plans due to the managers "tactics", and Shearer....well I would
    say there are a few Italian clubs that would spend a few million on
    him, he's a top quality player, and 22 goals in 23 games this season
    says he's as good as any other stiker in Europe imo.
    
    .....bUt then again, whats the point in this he's English, so he cant be 
    any good can he.
    
    Dave...
    
    

 >  Parker
 >  Adams
 >  Pallister
 >  Dorigo

Well I suppose with defenders like that who needs enemies !
Me thinks Terry would have a little more sense that to play 
sticks like these guys !

Good Luck ,

Peter(An IMpartial Celt) 

    From what I gather the fat one referred to a couple of notes ago gave a
    virtuoso performance yesterday, controlling the match, and generally
    having a good game. In contrast the once above average David Platt was
    substituted. I know who I'd rather have in my team. Back to choice of
    manager. Venables is the best coach in the country. He gets the best
    from his players, and knows how the game should be played.
    Unfortunately his dealings off pitch cast a dark cloud. However, it is
    reported that he will be sacked on the spot, with no compensation, IF
    the allegations turn out to be true. He also will be banned if he gets
    the job, from the commercial and marketing side of the team, which in a
    way is good, because he can then concentrate on team affairs.
    
    It can only mean good times ahead for the England team.
    
    Rich.   

    If England cock up again under Terry Venables,then there really is
    no hope.
    
    At last the old men of the F.A haven`t got a "yes" man in,and the
    future indeed looks rosy. The best Manager since Alf Ramsey,imo.
    

    
    STOP PRESS !!!
    
    Just announced on the Radio 2 5:45 news.............
    
    KEVIN KEEGAN ANNOUNCED AS NEW ENGLAND MANAGER: Venables shattered !!
    
    Is this a shock or what ?
    
    

Can this be true ?


Peter(An Impartial Celt)

    
    NO IT'S NOT....It's called Scottish humour.....
    
    Neil..

    Here is a late football result...
    
    
    
    
    
    
    Scotland 1
    Peru     3
    
    

    
    Here is a latest score...
    
    San Marino 1 Engerland 0.

    closely followed by USA 2-0 Engerland...
    

    
    
    and then by Holland 2 - 1  Engerland...

Re: last few.  Lads....this is getting distressing. I never realised Scottish 
jealousy was this intense.

    
    
    The hand of God won, Shilton didnae!!!

    
    And on that famous night the guy reading the list of television
    programmes for the next day misread 'Epilogue' for 'Apology' and said:
    "At 11:55 we are screening the Ally McCloud story".
    
    

    
    
     I take it you mean ALLY McLEOD, that's right, the guy who took Scotland
    to the '78 world cup finals when Engerland stayed at home and watched
    it all on the telly, as they had done in '74.
    
     Danny.

     re: .166
    
    >I take it you mean ALLY McLEOD, that's right, the guy who took Scotland
    >to the '78 world cup finals when Engerland stayed at home and watched
    >it all on the telly, as they had done in '74.
    
    You bet they watched on the telly! Most people keep a tape
    somewhere...breaks the ice at parties!
    
    All together now:
    
    
    "We're all off with Ally's Army..."

    
    If you talking about past World Cups what about....
    
    The Crowd think it's all over, well it is now..
    
    Neil..
    

    
    
     Aye, but that was before most of us were born, talk about living in
    the dark ages!! What about the USA victory in the 50s or so, how far
    back do you want us to go??
    
     Danny.

    what about 		Romans 1     -      Britons 0
    			Caesar (59 a.d.)
    
    
    Ray
    

    > Aye, but that was before most of us were born, talk about living in
    >the dark ages!! What about the USA victory in the 50s or so, how far
    >back do you want us to go??
    
    Yer asking the impossible - Scotland have only had *dark* ages!
    
    Still, I bet the Peruvians/Portuguese/Costa Ricans/Iranians can't toss
    the caber for toffee!

    re .168
    
    Mr Cossey shows his tremendous geographical as well as football
    knowledge by recalling that well-known football nation....
    
    Porta Rica....
    
    And this guy wants to be taken seriously !  I ask you......

    re 170
    
    >what about 		Romans 1     -      Britons 0
    >    			Caesar (59 a.d.)
    
    
    Didn't Bodaecia (sp?) play centre forward for the English in this one.
    Can't remember any of the Italian squad, just that they played with a
    great defensive shield with Titus Quadrepedus as centre back.
    
    Paul.
    

    .173
    
    
    Caesar's goal didn't cross the line.
    
    
    GAry

    
    Well spoted Mr MCClelland..You are on the ball....
    
    Neil.....  

    That's right... the ball never crossed the line. I was standing at the
    far post..... when I looked up, I saw Gary at the other post... We both
    couldn't have missed it now could we?
    
    Nick

    re 170
    
    >what about 		Romans 1     -      Britons 0
    >    			Caesar (59 a.d.)

	Somebody's calendar doesn't seem to be working right.

	Julius Caesar's invasions were 55B.C. and 54B.C.
	The Romans came to stay in 43A.D.

	And which one of you hooligans has the Ninth Legion's eagle?

	Tony

    RE: .166
    >> I take it you mean ALLY McLEOD...
    
    That's the guy.
    The best manager Schotland has ever had, or will ever have.
    
    
    As you seem to enjoy nit-picking at my attempts to spell these
    difficult tribal names, here's another one: Andy Rocksburrah - but I
    don't know what he does.
    
    YHB.

    re. .177
    
    Caesar scored in extra time....a header, I think

    
    Little things please little minds......
    
    Andy..B

RE:-2

	No..it was a free kick, deflected off Hadrian's wall.

RE: last

Taste was never one of your strong points !!!

Peter(AIC)

    
    
     re .182
    
     No wonder England supporters get a bad press, your one sick chap with
    a weird sense of humor.
    
    Danny.

     re .184
    
     >> No wonder England supporters get a bad press, your one sick chap with
     >> a weird sense of humor.
    
    substitute/your/you're
    substitute/humor/humour
    
    YJB

    re last 5 or so.
    
    Well, back to the niggly, bad-humoured slagging-off style of noting. So
    let's get back to the real subject of this topic.
    
    Heard this morning that a split has appeared in the FA Selection
    Committee about whether to take Venables on or not. Maybe the new
    dissenters were hoping that some mud would stick to Mr Teflon after
    yesterdays inquiry into the Spurs affairs. The position last night, or
    so I thought, was that nothing new had arisen, leaving the path open to
    making the appointment today. They're now talking about sometime this
    weekend. Anyone heard anything today.
    
    Paul.
    
    
    

    
    Seems the FA are flappin' abit about TV's appointment. According to
    various news broadcasts last night, he was to be appointed at 2:00
    tomorrow at Wembely. 
    
    Who knows, but it will be laughable if they change there mind now,
    after Millichip all but announced his appointment on Monday.
    
    Dave... 

Seemingly before going into Lancaster Gate yesterday Sugar said  that he had no
new accusations or evidence against Venables. He also stated that...

"If Terry Venables is to be appointed England Manager by the F.A they are going
to have to put to one side matters relating to breaking of the rules. And if
they do that they surely have to put to one side matters relating to Tottenham"

Looks like Sugar is trying to make a deal. The F.A leave Tottenham alone and
remove the threath of relegation or any other penalty and Sugar will not pursue
the accusations against Venables . You scratch my back etc...

Comments please...

Peter(An Impartial Celt)

    
    Re-1
    
    Yeah, but the FA new this anyway. Mr Sugar did'nt take in
    anything that the FA did'nt alreay know. 
    
    What Mr Sugar said yeasterday about clear Terry Venables, clear
    Tottenham Hotspur, he has said all along, so this should have already
    been taken into consideration by the FA.
    
    Dave...

    Who was manager between Ramsey & Revie ?

    
    	Mercer.

    I see the FA have decided to bring in a new away kit. It is now cherry
    red instead of scarlet (whoopie), with matching shorts. I don't know
    about the socks !!!!!. Well it looks like the FA (apt name, cause
    that's all we win due to their wonderful decisions) need to wring some
    more money from the fans. I hope it doesn't look like Wales' home
    kit. Now that would be embarassing.
    
    Rich.
    
    

    
    What happened is that the colours ran in the last wash and
    now they have 22 kits that nobody wants. Well they had those before the
    wash as well I suppose... But anyway ,
    I think Mrs. Taylor did it on purpose :-)
                                          
    Peter(AIC)

    
    NEWS FLASH ** NEWS FLASH ** NEWS FLASH ** NEWS FLASH
    
    	Terry Venables expected to be named new England Manager in the next
    few days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    
    Every bloody day every bloody bleedin' news programe every soddin'
    radio show, every day some day soon. WHY WON"T THEY SHUT UP?
    
    SteveP

    
    Well todays the day. At 14:00, in Wembley Stadium a press Conference 
    England will announce who the new manager is.
    
    Dave...

    
    Yep, England will unveil there new manager after months of speculation
    bound to be Venables and according to some of the papers Bryan Robson
    will be his assistant....
    
    Neil..             

    rumour too that Gerry Francis could be involved....

    They'll probably wheel out Phil Neal as manager......
    
    ;-)
    
    rick

     
    Can't wait till our man Terry is named the new ENGLAND manager
    at 2'0 clock today. I have a very good feeling that our great
    side are gonna do well from now on.....
    
    Andy..B

    
    I'm sure I've heard that before!
    
    Archie

I've said it before, but I predict that England win the Euro Champs. in '96 once
El Tel is installed.

Peter(AIC)

    >> I've said it before, but I predict that England win the Euro Champs.
    
    ....that means it will be the worst Championships ever held.
    
    Dave...

     >> I've said it before, but I predict that England win the Euro Champs.
    
    Oh God, time for Geoff Hurst to start practising his shooting against
    the underside of the crossbar. Forgotten art, that...
    
    Mind you, the sixties was an economic boom period. Where are we going
    to find the cash to bribe the Russian referee this time round?
    
    Dom

    >Mind you, the sixties was an economic boom period. Where are we going
    >to find the cash to bribe the Russian referee this time round?
  

Don't worry Dom, Terry will sort that one out no problem !

Peter(AIC)

    
>Don't worry Dom, Terry will sort that one out no problem !

    I hadn't thought of that...maybe Swales & co. are finally getting their
    act together!
    
    
    

    England win the European Championship......get real 8^)))
    
    I wish that they would name their manager and be finished with all the 
    crap. It wont make any difference anyway.... .. 
    
    

    re:208
    
    Can sense a bit of panic in the Mcnoters...A bit of jealousy prehaps,
    at the thought of our new mangement team who are going to lead
    the team to glory again...
    
    Neil...              

    Yes , absolutely, we're all crapping ourselves with fear at the thought
    of what Terry Venables can do.
    
    But let's face it...
    
    He is starting with a team with no confidence, who haven't qualified
    for the world cup, who didn't win a game in the last European
    Championships, who lost a goal to San Marino faster than Linford
    Christie can run 100 metres and with a bunch of players who all bottle
    it when playing for their country and can't reproduce their club form.
    
    Things can only go upward for England....
    
    Kev...

Re: Last couple.

Talk about premature ejaculations lads. There hasn't been the chance of a bit of
"fore-play" and you're starting to shoot :-) And about bloody time too !!!!


Peter(AIC)

    Venables has to be a better choice for England....At least he has
    actually won a few trophies, totally unlike the previous nutter. Good
    luck to him....Is it true that he would like his title to be 'First
    team coach' or something like that, and his No. 2 would be 'General
    Manager'....
    
    

    Yeh alright.....I am scared that England will take their rightful place 
    at the top of world football. Teams like Germany,Holland & Italy will
    be cowering soon....what a team..what a game...It will be different
    when we come to Wembly to be crowned European champs 8^)
    
    
    
    
    Or should I have said chumps....

    
    Five minutes before Terry is to be named as the England manager..
    
    CANT WAIT....
    
    Andy.,.B

     
    Terry Venables has been announced as Englands New Coach!!!!
    
    Neil...

    
    
    re last 2
    
    Boys, I hope you've got a box of hankies at the ready. I wouldn't like to
    think you were making a mess of yourselves lusting over "Terry".
        
    Del.

    Well readers, I'd extract .217 now before it disappears.......

    Is the Engalnd vs Denmark match at Wembley... anyone going to see it
    from Reading?? Whats the ticket prices likely to be??? 
    
    
    Rick.

Yes it's at Wembley. 8 p.m. kickoff on Wednesday 9th March.

Ticket prices are �12, �17, �22, �26. There's a bunch of us going from MIG in
reading DECpark 2.

mike

    Have you got any tickets yet?? Any chance of tagging along??
    
    Rick.

We got our tickets a week or so ago. We are in the South Terrace, Block 126, Row
19, seats in the 40s somewhere (there are 6 of us). They are �22 tickets. You
should be able to get a single seat nearby I would have thought.

Tag along anyway. It should be a good game.

Mike

    
    A lot of talk in the paper today of Terry's assistant and under 21
    managemnet team. His assistant will be Bryan Robson and the under 21 
    team will be Dave Sexton and Ray Wilkins...If this is correct then
    this can only be good for English football, what with Gazza turning
    in regular world Class performances for Lazio Englands reamergance has
    begun....World beware! England are back...
    
    Roll on March!!!
    
    Neil..

    
    Granted, they seem to have gathered a classy management team, but don't
    blow the trumpet too soon, get some wins under your belt first. 

    
    Terry Venables new mangement team is Bryan Robson,Dave Sexton and
    Don Howe.....What roles they will undertake I've no idea...
    
    Neil...

I thought Robson had said he wasn't interested unless it was part time?

mike

    
    Well everythings really coming together now isn't it, I read this week 
    that nice Mr Ian Wright has condescended to play for England again !
    
    Now this kind of behaviour looks pretty childish when exhibited by
    the likes of Maradona, a world class player on his day who knows he can
    walk into his national side. It just looks bloody stupid coming from a
    regular substitute like Wright.
    
    Its a pity Terry has been in Italy this week he's probably missed 
    this earth shattering announcement.
    
    Graham Taylor only had Wright in the squad because his big mouth would keep
    the press entertained at training sessions, Terry Venables doesn't need
    that kind of help.
    
    I do hope I haven't upset the Arsenal faithful but I think somebody who
    will probably be fourth choice centre forward when the next serious
    competition comes around is making a wright prat of himself.
    
    Cheers,
    
    Andy

    
    
    I understood that Ian Wright was happy to hang up his England boots 
    to allow players like Cole/Fowler etc to taste blood. He never said
    that he didn't want to play for England. 
    
    
    then I'm usually wrong.
    
    
    
    Gazzer

    Well it looks like Gazzer is out for Wednesday's match... 
    
    I was watching DSF ( A german TV channel ) who were carrying the match
    live when it happened... he did his World Cup Semi Final impression
    crying impression again!! :->
    
    Rick.

    more info please....is he out long term?...

    
    
     He's got suspected broken ribs and wrist after "Italian hatchet men
    ended his dream England comeback. CryBoy was kicked to the ground
    and deliberately stamped on" says the Sun. They don't know how long
    he'll be out for but I believe the Sun are sending him a months supply
    of Kleenex.
    
     Danny.

    Have you seen the new Yellow Pages advert featuring Bobby Robson,
    Graham Taylor & Tel himself... its a scream... :->>>
    
    Boy did I laugh.. :->
    
    Rick.

RE : last 

Yeah ! I couldn't believe it. It was brilliant !!! I wonder what the F.A think ?

Peter.

    Probably Bert Millichip is turning in his grave... ;->>
    
    Rick.

    
    David Platt will lead England into a new era on Wednesday, he's
    been named as England's Captain...
    
    Any news on Gazza yet ?, lets hope the injuries arn't too serious
    as he's starting to show the world class form that he was producing
    at Tottenham and in the 1990 world finals, when we finished 4th best
    team in the World.......
    
    The future looks a lot better, I hate to say it but England failing
    to reach the World cup finals was the best thing that could have
    happened. Though I guess the rest of the sides in the finals won't 
    agree because the competiton has lost one of the great teams....
    Never mind after we have won the Euro Championships in 1996 Sir
    Terry will conquer the world in 1998....
    
    Neil... 

    
    	ALSO.....Newsflash!!
    
    
    
    	Terry Venables about to be confirmed as new England manager.
    
    	A source close to the ex-Spurs and Barcelona impressario said 
    	an FA announcement was "imminent this week, maybe next.."
    
    	Andy.

  <<< Note 324.236 by PEKING::COSSEYN "Dry those Eyes Hastings.You Wimp!!" >>>

>>  at Tottenham and in the 1990 world finals, when we finished 4th best
>>  team in the World.......
    
>>  The future looks a lot better, I hate to say it but England failing
>>  to reach the World cup finals was the best thing that could have
>>   happened. Though I guess the rest of the sides in the finals won't 
>   agree because the competiton has lost one of the great teams....
>>   Never mind after we have won the Euro Championships in 1996 Sir
>>   Terry will conquer the world in 1998....
    
    What a load of rubbish. England were very lucky to beat the Camerouns
and thank God that the Germans beat your boys. Also you didn't qualify for
the finals because you were crap. You failed to beat Holland & Norway at
home and lost to both of them away.

I hope you enjoy looking at our boys in the final.


C U N N O
 

    
    I definatly won't be watching you boys drawing all your games this
    summer...
    
    An interesting article in the paper today, apparently, Jack's
    flying his boys out a month before the competiton starts and has
    arranged a couple of friendlies against, belive it or not the Dallas
    Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins..Obviously a shape of things to come
    from Jack's old codgers....
    
    Neil...
    

    
    Anybody out there do the fixed odds regularly ?  I do and I find it
    very surprising that on this weeks midweek coupon that England are
    priced at such short odds of 4/6. Surely for a team that failed to
    qualify for the E.C's and the W.C and lacks any real world class players
    this is a mistake. I would have thought 6/5 or 7/4 would have been
    nearer the mark especially when you consider they couldn't win at home 
    against the Dutch and Norwegians when it really mattered. The bookies
    have really surprised me on this one. England are no longer a force to be
    reckoned with (I can't remember the last time they were ?!)and with the 
    players they have available to them at present I simply can't see that 
    changing for years to come.   
    
    Short odds for also rans.....
    
    Del.   
      

    
    re. last 
    
    Bang on buddy, I totally agree. 
    
    I can't understand where the bookies get that price considering England's 
    recent performances at Wembley. It's just as well their hosting the next 
    European Championships because I couldn't see them qualifying in their own 
    right. UEFA obviously took pity on them by awarding them the next E.C's.
    
    I can't wait to read the articulate replies you receive from certain people
    in this topic. Free speech can be a disadvantage to the ignorant.
    
    Bert.

    re .241
    
    >priced at such short odds of 4/6. Surely for a team that failed to
    >qualify for the E.C's and the W.C and lacks any real world class players
    >this is a mistake. I would have thought 6/5 or 7/4 would have been
    
    Erm, we did qualify for the last ECs. I remember watching the whole
    sorry episode. Denmark didn't qualify for the WC as well which may
    account for the odds.
    
    >nearer the mark especially when you consider they couldn't win at home 
    >against the Dutch and Norwegians when it really mattered. The bookies
    
    We're better at friendlies than the ones that count.
    
    Paul.

    
    Terry Venables will delay annoucing his team, so to allow Gazza a
    little more time to get over his rib injury...
    
    A capacity crowd of eighty thousand is expected at the Worlds most
    famous stadium tomorrow night, and this is for a friendly. Imagine
    what it will be like when we lift the Euro trophy a new stadium will
    surly have to be built to cope with the demand for tickets to see 
    Sir Terry's Dream Team. 
    
    As soon as here what the Dream Team is, I'll post it in here ASAP..
    
    Neil...               

    
    
      I can see it now, Engerland win tonight, tomorrows papers/TV etc
     hail the return of the greatest team/country ever to it's rightful
     place at the top of the footballing universe. Just a shame that Fatty
     probably won't be playing, they've nearly run out of superlatives to
     describe this world class player who spends more time making a fool
     of himself than he does of other teams.
    
      Del, Bert, as you read your way through these notes you will come to
     realise that Engerland are and always will be the greatest thing to
     hit football. Just wait till they win a couple of games under Terry
     Vegetable, we'll never hear the end of it. Then again, it's probably
     a bit better than having to put up with Torvill and Dean being
     "unjustly robbed" of the gold medal at ice prancing.
    
       Danny.

All we need now is Gary Waite & Barefield(sp ?) and we can have a good ol'
fashioned (Impartial) natter.

Co'mon lads where are ye ?

Peter(An Impartial Celt)

    Re 246
    
    Don't include me in your childish games, Peter.  I've work to do.  
    
    All the best to Venables tomorrow but I fear for him.  The media are
    good at building people up and then knocking em' down.
    
    
    /GAry

     re: .241, 242, 245
    
    "I say, Ponsonby, the natives *do* seem remarkably restless
    tonight...".
    
    

    re .246
    
    I agree. It's getting very dull in here nowadays. Someone please start
    a fight....

    
    Reading in the paper today there is a article about Darren Anderton,
    and in it he said how he could have played for Scotland. He infact went
    for a trial at the age of sixteen but for some unknown reason they played
    him at RIGHT BACK, and the Scots wonder why there is always a smile on
    everyones face when Scottish football is mentioned..Maybe Graham Taylor
    has some Scottish in him...
    
    Here is the article....posted without premission
    
    ANDERTON SAVED BY A JOCK-UP
    
    Darren Anderton was wanted by Scotland to play right-back!
    Anderton revealed the jock-up that pushed him England's way after his
    first day of training with Terry Venables yesterday. The Spurs
    midfielder who has every chance of making his international debut
    tommorrow,spoke of the time he almost became a Scot, at 17.
    Anderton said "I was an apprentice at Portsmouth and was called to
    Largs to have a trial for Scotland.
    
    "When I turned up they didn't even know where I played. They wanted me
    to stay for a couple of games but play right back.
    "Nothing came of it thank god, or I wouldn't be available for England.
    
    "I qualified for Scotland because my Dad, Norman, is from there. But he
    doesn't mind me playing for England. All the family will be at
    Wembley"..
    
    
    Good luck to the young fellow if he makes his debut tomorrow night.
    He looks a promising talent and if there is anyone who can help him
    fulfil that talent than sir Terry is the man...
    
    If I get a chance I'll post a bit more information on Sir Terrys
    Dream Squad...
    
    
    Neil...    
    
    

    
    >"When I turned up they didn't even know where I played. They wanted me
    >to stay for a couple of games but play right back.
    
    Tell you what, if your first choice right back was that Stuart McKimmie
    fellow, then you too would probably offer a trial to anyone with a dog
    named Hamish!
    
    Is Sheena Easton naturally left footed, or is there some other reason
    why she's never had a callup?
     

    >>Don't include me in your childish games, Peter.  I've work to do.  

    Ahhhhh come on gary. Pleeeeeeeease. I haven't had a good "racist"
    outburst in ages. It's killing me , my work is suffering , my wife has left 
    me , my hair is falling out , my life is a shambles, PLEASE PISS ME 	
    OFF!!!!!!
    PLEASE say something contreversial PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE !!!!!!!

    Peter(An Impartial Celt)

    
    For those who have asked, he is the list of England Captains since the
    war and the number of games...
    
    91 Bobby Moore
    90 Bill Wright
    65 Bryan Robson (Who is now part of Sir Terry's Dream Managment team)
    31 Kevin Keegan
    23 Emlyn Hughes
    22 Johnny Haynes
    18 Gary Lineker
    15 Jimmy Armfield (who helped in the appointment of Sir Terry)
       Peter Shilton
    13 Geoge Hardwike
    10 Ray Wilkins (who is now part of Sir Terry's Dream managment Team)
     8 Gerry Francis
       Mick Mills
       Stuart Pearce
     7 Terry Butcher
       David Platt
     6 Alan Ball 
       Phil Thompson
     5 Ronnie Clayton
     4 Martin Peters
     3 Ron Flowers
       Alf Ramsey
       Dave Watson
     2 Mick Channon
       Bobby Charlton
       Paul Ince
       Frank Swift
     1 Peter Beadsley
       Colin Bell
       Trevor Cherry
       Ray Clemance
       Allan Mullery
       Phil Neal
       Mark Wright
       
    
      
    
       
    
    
    

    
    
    re last
    
     Thank you, I can sleep easily tonight. Is there any more trivial
    nonsense you can enter here, it would be much appreciated.
    
     Danny.

    
    Since you ask....
    
    Also in the paper there is an article about Gazza and the ammount of
    physical abuse he's taken. I'm afraid this Genius's skill will be his 
    downfall....
    
    THEY'RE KICKING ME TO HELL, TEL
    
    Gazza England fear.
    
    PAUL GASCOIGNE'S England career is under threat from the kickers of
    Italy's Serie A.
    Gazza fears his England dreams could be ruinedby the hatchet men. The
    Lazio midfield master suffered another ambush in Sunday's derby against
    Roma and was forced out of action after only 20 minutes.
    But despite bruised and battered ribs amd a gashed left wrist, Gazza
    WILL be named in England's line-up at lunchtime today for the Wembley
    showdown against Denmark. 
    He will be given untill 7O'Clock tomorrow night, just an hour before
    kickoff, to prove his fitness.
    That is how much he means to coach Terry Venables, who has also
    appointed David Platt as his new England skipper.
    Gazza spent last night with a huge ice pack on his painful ribs. the
    result of a dreadful stamping incident, and will attempt light jogging 
    this morning.
    But he is worried the rough handling he gets in Italy may damage his
    chances of being a force in Venables' new England team.
    He admitted: "I was worried something like this was going to happen.
    I thought I could be a target, but it happens all the time now.
    
    "The match before this was even worse. luckily, I did not get seriously
    injured on that occasion. I don't think I'm singled out because my olsd
    knee ligament injury. I thinkthey pick me out because I'm playing
    better and they sse me as a threat.
    " It won't change me the i play, yet I know I miss too many England
    games with little injuries and knocks.
    
    "If I keep taking these injuries into England matches, it is going to
    be a problem for me. It is unfortunate, though there is nothing I can
    do."
    Gazza played 11 of 38 matches for former boss Graham Taylor and his
    chances of making Venables' first game in charge remain slim.
    He flew back from Rome yerterday morning carrying painkillers tablets
    given to him by Lazio to hold off any serious discomfort.
    His upper body hurts if he turns sharply, even when he coughs, and
    despite intensive treatment he was unable to train yesterday.
    He added" You can feel the swelling under my shirt. I can put my hand
    on my side and feel where I was trampled on. It's killing me.
    " They clattered me and I was in pain from the start.
    " The worst thing was I couldn't breathe. It was very frightening.
    " If there is no improvement, I will have to have another X-ray on
    Wednesday.
    " I want to do what is best for the team and I'm not going to play and
    end up coming off early. Thats not fair on the other players.
    " Lazio have left it up to me and I must use my head. I haven't done it 
    much before, but I'll try......
    
    Posted without premission.......
    
    
    I Posted this interview for all you doubters I think it shows a maturity
    not shown in a Gazza interview before. Maybe the Clown Prince is
    starting to grow up...But what a personality....
    
    
    Neil....
    
     
    
    
    

    Neil,
    
    I think you may be right. He even appears to be coming to grips with
    English :
    
    >     " It won't change me the i play, yet I know I miss too many England
    >  games with little injuries and knocks.
    
    
    
    Well, you have to admit, it's much more coherent than most of his
    previous comments ;-)
    
    Prediction :    England 0  Denmark 4   (first goal after 4 seconds to 
    					     beat San Marino's record !)
    
    
    Jerry.

    
    
    Has the squad been announced??
    
    Tony
    
    

Yes :-)

    And....
    
    

	I think he meant to say "was the team announced"?? The squad was
announced last week. As for the team I dont know.

Mick

    
    I'm amazed at the confidence shown in this topic regarding the future
    of English International football.When Bobby Robson took over he
    was "the man for the job", "the man to put English football back at the
    top". He failed. When Graham Taylor took over he was hailed as the 
    saviour of English football and there was no question he would do the
    biz. He failed. Now certain noters in here are chugging at the thought
    of Terry Venables. Quotes like the "Dream Team" make me laugh. How can
    any "Dream Team" include Tony Adams & Paul Parker ??? 
    
    My point is....Robson,Taylor & Venables are all good managers with 
    reasonable records in domestic football. The first two failed at
    International level and so will Venables. You can't succeed at that level 
    if you don't have world class players. England don't and it's only a
    matter of time before Sir Terry goes the way of Robson & Taylor.
    
    Adams,Parker,Platt & Pallister make it on work rate only, Anderton & Jones
    are young but won't make the grade and come the '96 E.C's Pearce & 
    Beardsley will just be memories of past failings. 
    
    "Dream Team".......I don't think so.
    
    Del.   

    
    Del....
    
    your right, there's too many chuggers in here talking nonsense. I'd be
    surprised if one or two of them don't have a pic of Sir Terry taped to
    their bedroom ceiling. I reckon the "Wet Dream Team" is nearer the
    mark.
    
    ...Bert. 

    
    
    A blend of youth and experience. 
    
    We don't have to win a game for two years - but I doubt if El Tel has
    that long.
    
    
    
    Gazzer

                               <<< Note 324.262 by AYOV18::SLS >>>

    >your right, there's too many chuggers in here talking nonsense. I'd be
    >surprised if one or two of them don't have a pic of Sir Terry taped to

    I dunno, exaggerated modesty always leaves me a bit uneasy.
    
    Still, if you want to note in here, I suppose it's a free country...

    
    Englands Dream Team for tonight
    
    Seaman
    Parker
    Pallister
    Adams
    Le-Saux
    Platt
    Gazza
    Ince
    Shearer
    Beadsley
    Anderton
    
    More Later

    
    The team is:   Seamen
                   Parker
                   Le Saux
                   Pallister
                   Adams
                   Ince
                   Platt (Capt)
                   Gascoigne
                   Shearer
                   Beardsley
                   Anderton
    
         Subs:     Flowers
                   Jones
                   Batty
                   Wright
                   Le Tissier
    
     
     Tony
    
    

    Wow, I like it, which is more than I ever said about one of Taylors
    teams. It looks fresh, rather than stale, and it looks like we may
    start scoring goals, which few of Taylors teams ever did.
    
    I'm a happy bunny.
    
    Rich.

    
    Yep, I'm pretty pleased with it. Let's hope they are coached well and
    play as a team.
    
    Tony
    
    

Bobby Robson failed did he ??

Barry

    
    Lets hope tonight, that we get to see an England team stringing more
    than two passes together, its a tactic that has'nt been employed over
    the last three years or so, it sometimes helps to be able to pass the
    ball to your team-mates at International level.
    
    The team looks promising, hopefully we can get off to a good start
    under Sir Terry.
    
    Dave...
    
    
    
    
    
    

    A passing team rather than a hoof and it and see what happens team.
    
    Should be a good game.
    

    
      I may have missed this already in this note, but is the game on
     T.V. or Sky tonight.
    
    

    Its on Sky... I think the match coverage started at 10pm last night...
    
    	They sure do like the prematch stuff don't they ;->>
    
    Rick.

I'm desparately trying to see what all the hype is over in the last few notes.

What is so refreshing about El Tels team?? Weren't many of his team playing under
Taylor??

The worst thing that has happened is that he has been proclaimed the saviour of
English football, just like his predecessors. Now he's all set up for the fall.

I can't wait to see the flak that starts flying around here from our Irish and
Scottish noters if England lose tonight.

Regards a sceptical England fan,
Kevin

    
    Anyone seen the new Yellow Pages advert? Absolute pearler!!
    
    Tony
    
    

     
    Defeat is a possibility as Sir Terry has only had his squad together
    for a couple of days, but the important thing is the teams performance.
    Ok, Taylor had most of the team Venables has picked but he never got the
    best out of them.... Taylor was more interested in tatics which instead
    of baffling the opposition it baffled his own players...The important
    thing about Sir Terry's appointment is he has the respect of the
    players the media (at the moment) and also the majority of the
    public...It might take a few games to see how the squad is going to
    fair but I know one thing Terry will get the best out the players and
    the game will played how it should be played.....
    
    Neil.....                                        
    

    
    Thats exactly it, Neil......
    
    	I've just got around to watching the Channel 4 Talyor program
    (thanks for the video Mike, its doing the rounds) and it clearly
    exposes Taylor's inability to get the best out of his players. There
    are managers who can mould a good side from a mediocre bunch of
    players and there are managers who can so inhibit his team that even
    good players do not perform. This definitely happened to England. The
    players were simply not motivated to go out and play well. The manager
    didn't have a clue his teams simply followed suit. The bit on the vid'
    with poor old Nigel Clough getting his instructions is a classic. Lets
    face it, over the past 3 years England have been managed by a bunch of
    clowns who had not experience of International football management. Its
    a different ball game. You can choose anybody, but then you have to
    mould those players into a team that plays well together....and you
    haven't got much time to work with the players to do that. England had,
    and still have to players. Taylor simply mismanaged them. Even things
    like the gross incompetence of Des Walker losing his man in the Holland
    and Norway games I would put down to a lack of motivation.
    
    	Lets hope Terry is in a different class.
    
    JBG
    
    Ps. re .a few back. I hope I get to be as unsuccessful as Bobby Robson
    was with England!
    
    
    play for a local team here in Bern (in the bottom league!!) and a
    few seasons ago 
    

    re -1
    
    >I've just got around to watching the Channel 4 Talyor program
    >(thanks for the video Mike, its doing the rounds) and it clearly
    
    If it's doing the rounds is there any chance of sending it my way. I've
    just got to see the look on Clough's face.
    
    Paul.
    

If you can sort out how Jon is to get it to you, no worries.

Mike

    
    Paul,
    
    	you'll have to be patient then. It took a while to get it out here
    to Switzerland and I guess there are a few guys out here who would like
    to watch it. Tell you what Paul, I bet you a tenner I can get it back
    to you before WBA make it out here! 8-) Ooooops, sorry, wrong note!!
    
    JBG
    
    Ps. seriously though, if you can wait long enough I'll send it on one
    day!
    
    Pps. now that we're on the subject (ie. the Graham Taylor expose) I
    though the funniset part was after the program had finished and this
    womans voice breaks in and says "an edited version of this program,
    more suitable for children, will be show at 5:30 next Friday". I think
    it would be most annoying watching it with a constant high pitched
    'beeep' masking out all Graham & Phil & Laurie's talking!!!!

I also have to agree with Neil.
 
If I were English I too would be highly optimistic. Terry has the respect of the
players and the media. In fairness, the players are those picked and played by
Taylor on numerous occasions but as has been mentioned ,as least this time they
will have a willingness to play and an identifiable pattern of play.
 
I couldn't see the logic of drafting in a whole team of new players for such an
important game so, as a result he has stuck ,mostly, with players who have
played together before and know each others style of play. No doubt changes will
be made over time but why risk making too many alterations in a game where it is
imperative to get a good result.

In addition those players where humiliated over the past few years and have a
lot to prove , they will be eager to impress their new manager and will realise
that if they don't perform that there are players waiting in the wings to take
their places in this "elite squad" (which is be no means finalised yet).

There has never been a world class England team but maybe this is the begining.
I hope so ! Ireland needs your cast-offs. 

Good luck tonight lads...

Peter(AIC)

    
    Final Score :  England 1  Denmark 0
    
    Watched the highlights tonight and from a neutral point of view it was
    a disappointing match. England played well in patches while Denmark 
    didn't look overly interested. Frendlies tend to bore when nothing is
    at stake. From an English point of view you can be pleased with the
    debuts of LeSaux & Anderton while Platt impressed in his roll as captain.
    
    Del. 

    
    have to disagree with you Del....
    
    	I thought it was a very entertaining match. As you say, both LeSaux
    and Anderton had excellent (ok, so you said "good") debuts. LeSaux did
    a good job keeping out Brian Ladrup who looked very sharp and made some
    great incisive runs. LeSaux also made a good contribution to the
    attack, supplying long balls for Shearer to run on to a number of
    times, one of which led to Platts goal which was well taken.
    	Anderton for me was MOTM. He looked comfortable on the ball,
    played some great passes and absolutely creamed his markers a few
    times. His tackling back wasn't bad either. Given that he's only 22,
    it was his England debut and he's supposed to be a shy and retiring
    type (like Mr Waite 8-) ), I think his composure was amazing. And he
    so he nearly crowned his debut with a goal .... he beat PC Schmeicel
    with a delicate chip, only to see it cleared off the line by a
    defender.
    	Beardsley had a great comeback game too. He was forever looking to
    split the Danish defence and made some great passes. England were
    unlucky a few times when Schmeicel smothered the final shots / players 8-).
    	Platt and Shearer looked lively too ( although Shearer was a bit
    greedy at times but looks full of running ) and the defence had a solid
    enough game. Brian Laudrup always looked menacing but only once did he
    really get between the defence when his brother put him through but
    Seaman was out like lightning to smother the shot.
    	Ince and Gazzer had relatively quite games but thats not to say
    that they made no contributions. Ince's tackling back was solid as
    usual and the Gazzer / Beardsley combination looked like it might bring
    goals. Batty and LeTissier replaced Ince & Gazzer with about 30 minutes
    to go. LeTissier didn't make any impression but Batty took control at
    the back of mid-field and was playing the ball around like he owned
    the place.
    
	So, for England, and Terry in particular, it was a good game. It
    will be interesting who he picks for the Germany game on April 20th
    (also live on Sky).
    
    JBG
    
    Ps. Wales got stuffed at home 1:3 by Norway 8-( .... still, its the
    grand slam injust under 2 weeks!!! 8-)

    
    A good start. For the first time in ages (well the 3 years under Graham
    Taylor) we did'nt give the ball away constantly, and we passed the ball
    about and everyone looked comfortable on the ball.
    
    Denmark wer'nt very good, but I dont believe they were'nt interested,
    no team wants to lose.
    
    Great debuts for Darren Anderton and Graham Le-Saux, neither could have
    been expected to have done any better.
    
    
    Roll on April 22nd and the World Champions......a real test.
    
    
    Dave...

    re: -1
    
    You must have been watching a different England match to me and I was
    there.
    
    Boring, boring Arsenal,  what is it with the Arsenal defence.  Any
    other goal-keeper would have slung the ball out of defence to start an
    imediate attack, I hate to say this but that is what the old Liverpool
    and new ManU do so well, but no, Seaman lets the entire world regroup
    while he ponses about in goal whilst HOLDING onto the ball.
    
    Ince thought he would always be in the team and played with the
    commitment of a teddy bear.
    
    Gazza should go home and come back hen he is fit and not looking like
    an over-weight pasta boy.  Although to be fair he did have a run at
    goal, but held onto the ball to long.  Pasta boy pasta ball.
    
    Anderton as has already been said was brilliant for his debut.  Platt
    was good in spells, but seemed lost when the regular mid-field got
    substituted.  I think he felt that as captain he should be there for
    the new-boys instead of letting them drown if they couldn't cope.
    
    Pallister and Parker were like Ince saving themselves for another match
    and just going through the motions.
    
    All in all Terry's dream team were just that dreaming.
    
    Well this is my opinon and if you don't like it, then way was the crowd
    so quite.  The Danish and the school-kids were makig most of the noise
    for the entire 90 minutes.
    
    Well I look forward to the stuffing Germany are going to give us,
    that's if the match is still on, cus frankly young blood is all well
    and good, but it will take time for the team to settle.
    
    Rant mode off
    
    AndyH
    

    
    Well I have to disagree with the comment on the entertainment... I thought
    both sides made it a generally entertaining match with both sides coming
    out on the positive side. England can now look with renewed confidence
    that they seem to have a manager who likes to actually play the ball.
    Denmark can consider a job reasonably done against a naturally buoyant
    England side as far as their defence was concerned. England, though for
    all their entertaining play have a serious problem with their defence
    ( I know they didn't concede a goal) which they have over 2 years to
    sort out. If Venables approaches the infinitely more difficult of job
    of getting a solid and skillfully competant defence as he did with the
    rest of his team then England should be smiling in a year or two.
    
    A test of different proportions awaits them in the Olympic Stadium in
    Berlin on April 20th....we shall see....
    
    Regards,
    
    Dezzz.
    

Overall I thought it was a good enough performance. What was the guy suposed to
do ? change everything in one fell swoop ? No , it has to be  gradual thing.
The Welsh suffered the fate of changing their style too much too quickly and
were hammered by a mediocre looking Norwegian team. The Welsh crowd sang
"There's only one Terry Yorath" I didn't hear the English sing of their previous
manager !

Gazza is pathetic and the lack of any winger should be a worry, especially
against a team with a good sweeper system where those through balls will be
eaten for breakfast. Do you think Baraissie(sp ?) would have let Platt near that
ball ? 
Platt had a great game I hate to say, the guy looks like George Formby more
every day. The defense looked weak in the middle and as for Parker well n'uf
said, he's crap ! Tim Flowers shoud be given his day in nets also.

The new caps looked good and Beardsly proved that he should have been playing
for Taylor. Maybe Cole should be given his first cap against Germany because
Shearer really didn't do a lot as a striker. 
I thought there was a hint of the A.C Milans about the style of play. Hastle for
the ball and then hit fast on the counter with lots of diagonal runs and passing.
Things look hopeful so roll on Germany, shoul be a good game !



Peter(An Impartial Celt)

    I had the pleasure of listening to the match on R5 (while soaking in a
    hot bath). 
    The highlights on BBC1 did not do the game justice. Anderton silenced all 
    his critics, but I fear for him now. He has to keep at that performance 
    level or risk becoming another Barnes/Waddle enigma. Parker needs to
    learn how to pass, thank god he didn't get a shot, he would probably
    have skewed it of Seamans head ;-). Seaman was solid, but had little to
    do, apart from one fine save. To those people who criticised Gazza.
    Imagine if England had played the whole match like they did when
    Letissier (sp?) came on. Gazza still played his part. 
                                                         
    
    Why do the "fans' need to boo the oppositions national anthem ?
    
    Rich.

    
    >>Imagine if England had played the whole match like they did when
    >>Letissier (sp?) came on. Gazza still played his part. 
    
    My own sentiments entirely...I was criticising Gazza whilst he was on
    but as soon as he was off...who knows...If I watch the match again
    I'll probably see that Denmark themseleves expected as much from Gazza
    as everybody else and maybe soaked up an extra man....
    
    Dezzz.
    
    

    Watched the whole game on Sky. Good points:
    
    excellent debut by Anderton, good debut by Le Saux (but he wasn't
    really tested defensively too often
    
    good passing performance and players looked like they enjoyed it
    
    Batty looked very good when he came on, he seems to one of those
    players who looks average at club level but lifts himself for England.
    Dalglish has also taught him to pass!
    
    Bad points
    
    team looked very narrow sometimes, Gerry Francis commented on the lack
    of a wide left player (John Salako???)
    
    sometimes the passing got too intricate for its own good and the killer
    pass could have been made earlier
    
    Shearer didn't look too hot last night, the slower pace of the game
    didn't seem to suit him
    
    General Points
    
    Ince didn't look fully fit, and neither was Gascoigne, but both played
    a key part. 
    
    Not comfortable with two similar centre backs in Adams and Pallister,
    would prefer a more mobile side kick to Adams.
    
    Not convinced by Beardsley - he looked half a yard short of pace which
    would be exposed by a more competitive match.
    
    
    Overall tho' very pleased and looking forward to the German game.
    
    Paul
    
    Seaman clearly loves the punt upfield - too much Arsenal

    
    I'll get the booing of the Danish National Anthem out of the way first.
    I thought it was part and parcel of English internationals. There's
    plenty of good folk out there, but there's always going to be a few bad
    apples, nough said.
    
    I thought it was a very entertaining match, especially for a friendly,
    but it had it's fair share of dry "boring" spells. MOTM definitely
    Anderton, with LeSaux a close second place. Michael Laudrup, not Brain,
    was the best for the Danes IMO. Anderton was very confident on the
    ball, sometimes even cockey, a bit like Giggsy. England deserved to win
    the match, but should have scored a few more, having said that, they
    deserved to concide a few goals as well, the defence were dire. Someone
    mentioned previously about Gazza and Beardsley looking quite a threat
    for the future, I totally agree, even though Gazza was crap, if some of
    their one touch moves had came off, God only knows what the score would
    have been. El Tel seems to have a foundation to build from, upfront
    he has no problems, but it's the defence he has to start consentrating
    on, can't really give him any good advice here, I don't think he's got
    good defenders to choose from, we've got all the English Leagues best
    playing for the Republic.
    
    Ratings out of 10 for the game..............6, maybe stretching to a 7.
    
    Se�n 
    

    re. booing the national anthem....
    
    	The reason 71,970 people went to the match was to .... 
    
    		a) Boo Peter Manc..
    		b) Boo the Danish National Anthem...
    		c) Throw packs of Danpak Bacon onto the pitch.. :->
    		
    	Rick
    	
    	

    
    Excellant start for Terry, England deserved there victory, the only
    worring thing is we didn't kill them off Denmark were ordinary but
    we need to take our chances....
    
    The pluses were Anderton who was quite superb Le-Saux also had a good 
    debut. Personally I thought the back four had a solid game restricting
    the Danes to only a couple of half chances..Gazza wasn't fit and right
    from the start he was holding his side but Venables gave the crowd what
    they wanted (Shrewd move) a fit Gazza will relish playing in this side.
    Platt had his best game in a England shirt for quite sometime his
    stamina, his runs into the box and his finishing is world class 21
    goals in 46 appearances speaks for it's self....But what impressed me
    more was they actually looked as if they was enjoying playing and all
    looked comfortable with the system Venables had set...A positive start.
    
    Neil........
    

    well done, england....Anderton was man of the match, without a doubt.
    A good platform for Venables and England to come second to the Republic
    of Ireland in Euro 96....8*)}
    Ray....

    Well, I thought it was as good a start as could be expected under the
    circumstances. At times, the passing looked very fluid (and very
    un-English!); at other times, less so.
    
    With reference to what has been said so far, I thought:
    
    a) The Danes seemed as competitive as anyone who's come to Wembley in
    recent years - though very lacking in attacking ideas. The Danes are
    always a tough nut to crack; with the exception of the Laudrup
    brothers, they're a pretty gutsy bunch. John Jensen epitomizes their
    attitude.
    
    b) *I* thought the defence looked near enough rock solid (except for
    one moment early on when Pallister, Adams and Platt seemed unclear as
    to who was going to clear a ball). I'd probably replace Parker with
    Jones (I'm a Man. Utd. fan, but I still think Jones is a better player
    than Parker in the right back position). I'm usually critical of
    British central defenders, but not many attackers will get the better
    of Adams and Pallister (or Walker). The Italian TV commentators (who
    know a little about defending!) actually said that they thought Denmark
    were up against a brick wall - much like Torino last week against
    Dixon/Adams/Bould/Winterburn. For two big men, Pallister/Adams are
    pretty damn quick - Adams easily held his own with M. Laudrup on the
    two occasions he tried to run at him.
    c) I wouldn't have too many worries about Gascoigne and Ince - if it
    hadn't been the first match of the Venables era, they probably would
    have been rested. Gascoigne looked understandably mediocre last night
    (though he still figured in most of England's best moves, goal apart),
    but he's been looking stunning in Italy. One Italian newspaper last
    week actually referred to him as *the* best player in Italian football
    (Baggio's been looking decidedly off colour since he won his award).
    All Lazio's opponents say that he's the one player that you just can't
    counter (when he's fit).
    
    d)Le Saux and Anderton - two of the most confident debuts I've ever
    seen. Le Saux was attempting things that some *wingers* are wary of
    trying when they've got 20 odd caps under their belts! 
    
    e)The tackling was very hot - it's refreshing to have people like
    Beardsley who continually try to win the ball back in the opposition's
    third of the field. A real pain in the *ss for defenders.
    
    f)Shearer was never going to score a hatful, but I think that was part
    of the game plan. He was alone against two centre halves and a sweeper,
    but the Danes thus found themselves having to cope with Gascoigne,
    Ince, Anderton, Platt and Beardsley all powering forward from midfield
    - and they never came anywhere near to coping, hence the large number
    of chances created.
    
    Negative aspects? 
    
    - Wasted corners/free kicks (lots of arm waving and then a crappy ball 
    played into the box)
    
    - The booing of the Danish national anthem (pretty rife wherever you go 
    these days, but Wembley used to have a good reputation in this respect - 
    besides, it's guaranteed to gee up the opposition!)
    
    - Not a lot of width. Then again, England have often been roundly 
    criticised in Continental circles for overusing the wings. The goal
    itself was somewhat un-English: a centre forward holding the ball up
    and then delivering it perfectly behind the defence for a teammate who
    times his run to perfection and slots it past the keeper. Generally
    considered to be the classic way to open up a sound defence.
    
    Next time out'll be the big one, but for the moment, it's encouraging.
    
    Dom   
    

    I watched the highlights last night and couldn't convince me that there
was anything special about them. They were playing a Danish team that hadn't
a lot of interest in the game and didn't try too hard.  Anyway, England can win
all the mickey-mouse friendlies over the next two years and it will count for
nothing, they didn't qualify for the one that counted. England will probably win
most of the friendlies, then fail to make the second round of the Euro
c'ships at home.

A good start for Terry overall but we must remember that Taylor was undefeated
in his first 13 games and look at the way he ended up. The England v Germany
game should be a good one as well. We have Czech, Bolivia & Russia lined up
for friendlies before we depart for the US. It's a pity we didn't get a game
against England. That would have been a cracker. Aldo, Whelan & co. against the
new look England. 


C U N N O 

    
    The three keys words are confidence, promise and patience. The players
    were playing with confidence. A trait long missing from an English
    side. The performance, whilst not being electric, was very promising.
    After all it was only a friendly and a lot of the usual aggresion and
    tenacity you see in internationals was missing. But the important thing
    is patience. Us suffering English fans should now have the patience to
    allow Venables and his team to put together a side that can hold their
    own technique wise and flair wise worldwide. Be prepared for losses
    against sides in the run up to the Euro's, don't start booing and
    calling for his head after five games.
    
    Let's give this manager and squad a fair crack of the whip.
    
    Tony
    
     

 
        Re -1,
               Here!! Here!! 
               That's what i was trying to say in my note although I might not
have come across that way. Venners is not a bad lad so the best of luck to him.


C U N N O              
     

    Re 297
    
    Tony
    
    You're an inspiration to the lot of us...
    
    
                    
    /GAry

    Last night was one of the worst performances I've ever seen from an
    England team.  If Terry Venables was a real man, he'ld resign today !!!
    
    
    
    Is that what you had in mind Tony ?  ;-)
    

    
    Yeh, that kinda thing Jerry. Probably after Germany beat us 1-0!
    
    Tony
    
    

I was there last night and the atmosphere was superb, especially during the
Mexican wave near the end ;-)

The game didn't live up to my expectations, but...

I won't bore you by repeating most of what has been said so far, but I think
that England's attitude last night was superb, even for a friendly. It's not
going to be easy for Venables, trying to keep the teams attitude the same for 2
years without a competetive match, but yesterday was a positive start.

Al

P.s. My highlight was Laudrup kicking the toilet roll instead of the ball at
Denmark's first corner.

The worry for me from what sketchy coverage was shown on Sportsnight was the lack
of defensive effort in midfield. Somebody contradict me, please.

There seem to be times when England lost possesion going forward and were left with
only one midfield player in there as defensive support as the Danes swarmed forward.
I thought the defence looked really solid, the only times they did seem troubled was
when they were having to pick up oncoming midfield players as well as attackers.

I think you'll see Venables field another midfield stopper against Germany, probably
Batty. Will they need four flair players in midfield away from home?? Do they need
Gascoigne at his current level of fitness against the Germans??

Regards
Kev

Given that it was Venables' debut, I think he picked more flair players than he
might normally, and took a chance with Gazza and Ince. In the future, he will
probably play either a sweeper or another midfield stopper. Alo if Gazza and
Ince were fit, there would probably have been a lot more midfield stopping going
on. Batty did a lot of that when he was on.

Cheers,

Mike

    Chaps,
    
    I think our major problem is that we don't seem to have first-touch
    control of the ball. Time and time again the ball went two yards off
    the receiving player and the Danes picked it up. If we are going to
    play this short passing game (and I think we must) we've got to get the
    basics sorted out.
    
    Having said that, the most important thing was the result and so all's
    well that ends well.
    
    peter
    
    

    
    Have to disagree Peter. There was a hugh amount of one touch play from
    England. At one point they were playing it around for ages like that.
    Beardsley, Anderton and Platt displayed incredible first touches....
    rather like me yesterday, eh Jerry!!!
    
    JBG

    JBG,

    I agree that there was lots of one touch and it was good to see.

    The one-touch isn't the problem. It's really the two touch where
    keeping the ball at feet in a "ruck" of players is important. 

    I'm glad you mentioned Beardsley because the best way to play this kind
    of football would be to include the complete Newcastle (outfield) team.

    I did think that Anderton was particularly poor in the first half, but
    put that down to nerves. He got much better as the game went on. I
    suppose that, rather like German wine, he only got about sixty minutes
    to mature.

    Speaking of Germany, lets look forward to the next win.

    Peter

    Re: .306 (Jon B. Goode) 
    
>    Beardsley, Anderton and Platt displayed incredible first touches....
>    rather like me yesterday, eh Jerry!!!
    
    I just like to point out that the only reason Jon said this was because
    he knew that I wasn't at work on Friday, and so he was free from the
    fear of contradiction.
    
    However, to be fair, I would have to admit that Jon did indulge in
    quite a lot of one-touch stuff on Thursday (usually, one good stiff-arm
    "touch", or ankle-tap ;-) ).
    
    Jerry.
    
    
    P.S. Jon, I met Mr. Riordan on Friday night and he was still
    complaining about that unfortunate incident when Aschi and I ran into
    each other and he got caught in the middle.  He unfortunatley had
    something of a mental block about his attempts to relocate your calf
    muscles down along the fence (I took the liberty of suggesting that he
    wear shin-pads front and rear next week ;-))))).

    Please can someone post a complete list of the England squad ? Thanks.
    
    

	Amongst the excuses made for England not reaching the World Cup Finals
	has been that because of the congestion of the English domestic fixture 
	list, players in the English league play too much football, and so are 
	notin a good condition for international game.

	However, there are at least 11 players, looking just at the Irish and
	Norwegian teams, who play in English football but are capable of
	appearing in the World Cup finals.

	I also note that two of the finalists (Ireland and Switzerland) have
	English managers.

	Tony	

    
    So the real reason they didn't qualify must be that they were crap.
    
    I think we'd all gathered that.