Spurs Spank Sweaties

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when he came off ?

Reply to onedavemackay:

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when...

Couldn't agree more. chief.

Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.

Gomes will spare us or skewer us.

Cannot wait!

Reply to HarryHotspur:

Reply to onedavemackay:

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when...

Couldn't agree more. chief.

Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.

Gomes will spare us or skewer us.

Cannot wait!

Me neither.


And I'm sure I'm not the only one who keeps forgetting just how good the boy Bale is.

I'm a happie chappie

good performance but we need competative matches Orient were better than those sweaties......

I thought BAE looked really good tonight. Modric was secure with the ball and that pass to bent was just great. Bent is really putting a good effort in. Berbs had some glimpses of his magic. Bentley seemed like the real deal. Overall spurs was far more confident on the ball then Celtic. Gomes seems like a powerfull goalie much like Peter Smeichel in his prime. Unlike Robbo at his worst he seems confident going for the ball.
We played patiently but I missed Jenas rushing forward.

........Oh yeah it's been many a year since We've had an absolute gem.. Master Bale what a player!

Harry do you think this means Berbatov is going to stay.I thought he looked ok tonight have you any news

bale class, berba sulky and difficult to please, modric class, celtic cakka

Zokora looks like a DM? He played at RB and didn't look like one of those either to me.
I thought he was even more shocking than ever.
Other than him, we were very good.

We would have been better off playing with Berbatov off and staying with 10 men. And I'm being 100% serious. Usually he redeems his sulks with some great play, all he did today was sulk and walk. If i wanted to see that I'd watch Kevin and Perry.

Reply to PLN:

We would have been better off playing with Berbatov off and staying with 10 men. And I'm being 100% serious. Usually he redeems his sulks with some great play, all he did today was sulk and walk. If i wanted to see that I'd watch Kevin and Perry.

i think you r spot on, i will defend berbs to the hills but afraid he aint cutting it, he will drag our enthused players down, get rid, get cash and bring in someone with Bentleys passion.......the only thing that will change my mind is if he goes on OS and pedges his love for our club, otherwise fuck off

Now that I've seen the replay 20 times I can confirm that Berba did not carry out some 'sublime dummy' (Setanta reporter) leading to Bentley's goal, he wasn't fast enough to the ball or committed enough to risk his precious ankle (the one with the ManU tattoo). So sublime dummy my arse. Gimme Pavlyuchenko.

Reply to Snap:

Now that I've seen the replay 20 times I can confirm that Berba did not carry out some 'sublime dummy' (Setanta reporter) leading to Bentley's goal, he wasn't fast enough to the ball or committed enough to risk his precious ankle (the one with the ManU tattoo). So sublime dummy my arse....

Berbatov must go, and soon, he is 20% at the moment and we need someone who will give 100% for the cause, the twat is really starting to irritate me big time, he makes a bad pass and blames others for it. GET THE MONEY AND GET RID.

The longer that Berby stays and sulks, the more his value goes down. Let him fuck off to Utd, as he inevitably will, and we can get in Pavlyunchenko AND David Villa asap. I just have this feeling that we have a BIG signing coming out of nowhere(like we do!) and Villa would really shake up the rest of the Prem. Can'y wait for the new season. COYS!

Well, neither goal was very impressive but since both were hustle goals it shows some hard work on behalf of our front 6, and Im sure we can agree that a hard-working front-6 hasnt exactly been Spurs' M.O.

I hope the midfield runts can keep it up...

Berbatov comments are bang on, what's the fucking point?

Well taken goal by Bent and nice to see Bentley score on his debut.

I'd of rather of seen the 4-5-1 formation again, although if you replaced Berbatov with a player that could of given a shit (Arshavin) could be another option of play.

Jenas, Zokora and Huddlestone don't look like players that can cut it at the top.

Overall, excited and can't wait for the big kick off.

Reply to HarryHotspur:

Reply to onedavemackay:

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when...

Couldn't agree more. chief.

Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.

Gomes will spare us or skewer us.

Cannot wait!

In modric you have a player. You have something to look forward to...

Reply to TMWNN:

Berbatov comments are bang on, what's the fucking point?

Well taken goal by Bent and nice to see Bentley score on his debut.

I'd of rather of seen the 4-5-1 formation again, although if you replaced Berbatov with a player that could of given a shit (Arshavin) could be...

I'll take Jenas, The Hud and Zokora.

Battered Mars Bar and some chips for the lot

Deal

Let's wait and see the first 5 games of the season I like the new signings and think their influence will raise the game of some of the other less talented players.This group of players need to play as a team,if Berbatov can't do that then he needs to go ( reading him isn't that straight forward)if he can then he's welcome to stay,but the decision needs to made very soon, prolonged indecision can only be bad for those around him!
I have a good feeling about this year with or without berbs .
COYS
Loozegear.com

Reply to TMWNN:

Deal

Problem is some cunt like Aston Villa, Wigan or Fulham would outbid us for them.

Yeah, could come on with a battered king size Sinckers bar or something.

If I had my way I'd stick Jenas and Zokora in a giant fryer and batter the pair of 'em right up.

Can't understand Berba - if he wants out what he ought to be doing is playing his ass off right now in order to convince Manure, Barca or whomever he thinks wants him that he's worth the asking price.

I think he's among the most talented players to ever wear our shirt, but I'm starting to think there's a three-year-old trapped inside him.

Mesage to Berba - If you want to get on board and help pull the rope, great, cuz players as talented as you are rare indeed, but if you want to be placed in the the shop window, you had better start playing to your potential, or you can kiss your "dream move" good-bye.

That said, I expect Sir Alex to tap up Bent by the weekend.

Ok, so tonights game looked for large parts like it was being played at a stroll, the good thing about this IMO is that as one of the commentators mentioned, we looked as though we had another couple of gears - this as opposed to the recent past of looking like we were plain out of ideas....

....as for the players, I thought that ekkoto looked good once again (loved the little flick) and he and Bale look like they're developing an "understanding". Luka looks as though his getting up to speed - and very exciting to. I love the fact that we have players following up in the box to - Luka, Bentley and Bale always appear to be up with the speed of play, something we have relied far to much on JJ to achieve in the past. Lennon looked a bit lost however and will be really feeling the pinch this year - make or break time for the lad and that can only be good for the club. Bent was good and took his goal well, however, he certainly lacks in the "clever little flicks" dept - something Berba was clearly frustrated with. As for the sulking wankbag, I actually thought after Bentley came on, he livened (or cheered) up a bit - perhaps he could suddenly see the level of service he would get with this guy in the side?

Oh, and Zok is definately not a winger!

And thats all I have to say about that......for now.....

GTNS

COYS

Reply to HarryHotspur:

Reply to onedavemackay:

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when...

Couldn't agree more. chief.

Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.

Gomes will spare us or skewer us.

Cannot wait!

'Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.'

Come on HH, you can do better than that!?

Reminder: these are just friendlies! Say something interesting plz.

Modric is class on the basis of this performance!? Why is he class?

Reply to Sherlock:

Reply to HarryHotspur:

Reply to onedavemackay:

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when...

Couldn't agree more. chief.

Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.

Gomes will spare us or skewer us.

Cannot wait!

'Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.'

Come on HH, you can do better than that!?

Reminder: these are just friendlies! Say something interesting plz.

Modric is class on the basis of this performance!? Why is he class?

Its past somebody's bedtime methinks

Reply to onedavemackay:

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when...

He was outstanding - they were outstanding .. and no Gio on the pitch either!

Reply to Sherlock:

Reply to HarryHotspur:

Reply to onedavemackay:

Gomes is going to take a lot of getting used to. All that coming off his line and catching the ball malarkey.

Only saw the last 35mins but I thought the Modfather looked the business. Always available and always knew what to do with the ball. Anyone else notice how we lost it a bit when...

Couldn't agree more. chief.

Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.

Gomes will spare us or skewer us.

Cannot wait!

'Modrich is all the class and industry he ought be.'

Come on HH, you can do better than that!?

Reminder: these are just friendlies! Say something interesting plz.

Modric is class on the basis of this performance!? Why is he class?

If you have to ask the question ..............................

Bentleys post goal - love it.

coys

Um. So, I'm going to be that guy who didn't see the game because he was at a bowling tournament Tore my nails up something terrible. My manicurist, Jose, is going to kill me.

What's the BAE/Bale gig? Was there a swapsie, or was Bale playing ahead of BAE in LW?

Did everyone see that Del Nido (Seville president) has come out and said that Levy is a hypocrite for complaining about Berbatov, after the way we nicked their manager?

Crikey, is nothing sacred anymore? I couldn't believe what I was hearing. We can't have people just blatantly coming out and stating the truth like that.

Goodness me. No no no...

Anyway, Long Live Levy! You're doing a great job old son.

And I know that'll mean a lot to him. Over the years Dan has come to regard me as 'bloke on a forum'.

Oh yes.

Nice win today. Great to see the boy Bentley score on his (albeit friendly) debut. Plus all his crosses were inch perfect, nice performance.

Oh and Bale seemed to play all over the place when he came on but eventually seemed to settle left midfield. Ish. The boy really is class.

The Beeb think the deal for Arshavin is dead. I still think it'll happen but I've got absolutely nothing to back up that opinion.

G'night and god bless.

Christ at long bloody last!...We really are on our way. Looks like we have a top,top goalkeeper in Gomes. Woodgate and King are as good as they come as central defenders and I still think Dawson is a top quality back up. Hutton as we have already seen is a class act. To me Bale is the most exciting and hard working left back I've seen for years (Stuart Pearce epitomised all that was hard but fair about football and I loved watching him). Bale has that potential...but also has the skill to dribble and pass. He will be the best left back in the world !
Now to our problem midfield...Bentley is the best crosser of a ball in England. You can obviously see the Beckham inspiration and Bentley has a lot more to offer in terms of skill. Modric is going to be the talk of the premiership, oozes star quality. Dos Santos,supposed to be the next Ronhaldino...looks like he's almost there already. We all know we're in the hunt for some other top quality players...Pavlyuchenko...for me yes. Arshavin...at the price, no.
Sorry to see Robbie go but if I played for Liverpool and being a Spurs man was offered the chance to come to us ... I would die for it...so him being a mad Liverpool fan, I can understand it...he did a wonderful job for us and good luck to him. But as fate would have it Darren Bent may now well be given his true chance and he just may be the finisher to put us in the top four.
Shit, with the squad we look like ending up with. Tottenham shouldn't be looking for a top four spot, once we've got used to playing alongside eachother, we should be looking to challenge for the top spot!!!
But no pressure.
(Please notice the lack of a mention of a certain 'downer' genius who I expect to be plying his trade elsewhere.)
I can't bloody wait til kick off!!!

Yeah, we're way too excited. We need to be calmed down. That's why they play BerbaLude.

Dude.

This is the best Spurs team for many, many years. Look at the team, from goalkeeper and forward, it seems strong, talented, and intelligent. Bale a unfinish jewel,would probably be the *young player* of the year in
premier league.
Not to forget Santos, Modric,Bentley and a renewed Bent. I am so happy, to see him trash
goals in, and could be top-scorer in PL this year.
The new goalkeeper, are among the best in the world, and compared with Peter Smeichel, from
another aswell. Well done Ramos,you are on the track for top 4, and maybee more, if we can be
lucky to envoid to many injuries in the season.
I have full confident to Levy and Ramos will bring SPURS into a new era, and win many trophies. At last, forget Berba, do even think
about him, if he stays ok, but if he goes, I am sure Levy and Ramos will bring a competent
substitut, so everything ok.
Dont forget, with our strenghened midfield, our
game would be different this year, and Berba not that important.
Spurslover from Denmark

I've been away for a bit...I dreaded that Berba seems would be gone by the time I returned and that we'd have to "rebuild" like after Carrick left and our midfield was exposed for what it was - less than ordinary!

But I'm back and it feels like I've travelled to the future and not across the Atlantic. My beloved Spurs is fucking futuristic. The beautiful thing about it is that not even Berbatov can sully it - I'm sure that secretly he's thinking "This is hot(spurs) stuff right here!" (in Bulgarain of course). He doesn't even seem to be the focus any longer. Fantastic management!!! Know this Spurs is bigger than you Mr Berbatov you're a wonderfully skilled player and I for one would love you to stay but if you're not with us then kindly fuck off. pronto! We've got bigger fish to fry...oh god from what I've seen on here we could have the Ginger Pele playing the lone striker and hit thirty goals a season!

Speaking of which is Darren on steroids? He scores for fun these days but has a disturbing 'gurn' when he celebrates his goals...who cares Darren? You're the fucking man and I for one will stop immediately looking down on you for the price we paid for you(not your business is it?); for the fact that you don't have the silky skills of Berba or the Pointy-Shoutedness of that little forest-floor elf whose name I'd rather not mention..but you Darren terrorise defences with your pace and plain and simple clinical finishing. Go on Darren..put yourself about...

But the midfield: Can we play Modric, Dos Santos, Bentley and Huddle in the same midfield?

Is there a more gifted midfield in the Prem? Do we even need Arshavin for £21m - I saw his video and was really impressed but we have enough attack midfielders with youngsters like Taarabt and Rose and Bostock and Peckhart and Dervitte that I think we should start blooding...

Thanks for the vids Harry

The future is lillywhite!!

game available to watch at espn360.com

I now think Berba is perfectly playing his way out of Spurs. Lots of you have commented how he should be playing out of his skin to impress everyone enough to fork out the wad for him. My gut feel now is that Old red nose has already 'coached' him into sulking his way out.

If he played well, Levy would be even more determined to keep him/justify the £38m price tag. If he carries on at this rate, only Manure will want him, and we'll all be fecked off with him to want to get rid at whatever faintly decent price.

The sulking will only start to lessen once he's got his move to Old Crappord, or when the season starts and he realises he has to play to even be considered in the next window. The risk being that others will get all th eplaying time, and Rednose et al will consider other up-and-comers that are cheaper and move on. I mean its not as if he's 22 and still has his best years ahead of him.

As happy as I was to get to see the 2nd half (cheer for the link LOTW) I haven't sworn at my computer so much since it had the i-love-u virus. I've had enough. I just hope Levy can hold out longer than I can to get the money we're due.

The rest of the squad was sterling, however as was previously stated, we do need better opposition. I think that starts with Dotmund. They beat Bayern 2-1 in the German super cup just over a week ago, so I expect that one to be a cracker and a true test of our quality.

If you missed the game last night like me then you watch ot all over again here..LINK
click watch my last broadcast and your away

Very impressed with the new signings especially GDS who looks really powerful and direct and Modric who looks like an old school midfielder instead of the 6ft5" Africans that can run the 100 meters in 10 seconds but couldn't trap a bag of cement that seem to have become flavour of the month in EPL.
I do however have one big worry although the squad's quality has increased our main weaknesses last year were conceding too many goals. The only thing (as far as I can see) we've done to address this is buy a new keeper (which will help) but I still think we're desperate for quality centre back cover and someone in midfield who is a modern day Graham Roberts. Could you see any of our current midfielders depositing one of the opposition in row Z? neither could I!

COYS

Good effort from the lad Bent all preseason, very impressive. Looks like an absolute sublime finisher. But I dont think he's good enough to lead our line all season. Not sure if Arshavin is the answer, i feel that will leave us a bit light weight - Modric, Arshavin, Dos Santos, Lennon... doesnt exactly strike fear into you. i do however feel we have a monster in our ranks that just needs to find out how to get angry, maybe play with a bit more grit and spirit - The Hudd, or The Incredible Hudd. Why this man does batter opposition midfields annoys the bollocks off me. We need to get this man angry, teach him how to tackle, and we have a world beater on or hands, because the talent is all there.

Can I ask, from an unbiased view point, how many Arsenal players would get in our spurs team. Forget they play for Arsenal for a second, and base this purely on talent.

As much as it pains me, quite a few!

Clichy, Sagna, Gallas, Toure all quality and although I like King, Hutton, Bale, Woodgate a lot less experienced or very injury prone (although IMO King is best in EPL when fit if not the world)
Cesc
Adebeyor possibly

Maybe 6 although if our back 4 stay fit could be different - as they say the table doesn't lie and we'll see at the end of the season.

COYS

Looking good Spurs, if only preseason friendlies, which is all about fitness. One thing that makes me laugh is that all last sesason, 90% of you wankers were slating Bent; he scores 2 hat-tricks against Orient and Norwich and 1 against Celtic and he's a world beater. And you wonder why we are called fickle ?! I've said all along, give him some games and he will score goals. Let's not get carried away as well; the real test starts in 2 weeks. We were great last pre-season then look what happened. We are looking 10 times last seasons team and yes I'm excited for the start of the season, but just reign it in. We all know what it's like to be a Spurs fan! The pick of the signings for me is Bentley; passion, pride, skill and a technically gifted player. I think Gomes will improve our defence 10 fold as well. Is Berba going or what? Exciting times ahead methinks - even Ekoto looks rejuvenated - him and Bale patrolling the left? So many options now, THAT'S what was missing last season. COYS

Dannyboy the voice of reason for once.. agree with all that..

here's my ratings..

GOMES: (n/a)
had nothing to do... looks good so far tho..

ZOKORA7)
didn't fall for one of McGeady's pointless unneccessary step-overs and had him in his pocket for most of the game.. good going forward but but i cringed every time he attempted a cross..

DAWS: (6)
not a lot to do either.

WOODY: (6)
likewise..

EKOTTO: (6.5)
i really like this guy.. could be our number one left-full if Ramos decides that Baler is a left-winger..

LENNON: (6)
largely improved on last season so far but was a bit sloppy in possession..

JENAS: (6)
i was singing his praises in the first half but sadly we were treated to another viewing of his disappearing act in the second.. definitely not a captain..

MODRIC: (7.5)
he can also drift out of the game at times but he's dynamitre in possession.. almost impossible to dispossess and he skips around players at his ease..

BIG TOM: (6.5)
was ok.. nothing spectacular..

BENTY: (7.5)
another game another goal.. some of general play could improve a bit though.. no complaints overall..

BERB: (7.5)
in the fist half was a bit sloppy but made up for it by, yes you all saw it, tracking back, closing down and defensive headers.. in the second half he was quite delicious but undid some of that with some unwanted strops.. did manage a smile when he blazed his volley high and wide.. some of his passing and touches were fantastic though.. am i biased? yes, but from a purely footballing point of view he was excellent yesterday.. just hope he cuts out the strops and stays..i think we could all agree on that.. *que backlash*

BENTLEY: (7)
decent start.. a few sweet passes and crosses as well as the goal.. loses points for kissing the badge.. and before you all slate me for that.. think of how much we all love Frank Lampard..

GUNTER & O'HARA: (n/a)
not on long enough..

KING: (6)
slowly slowly catch a monkey..

ANYONE WHO WANTS PAVLYUCHENKO IN (-10)

It's the strikers I am concerned about.

JD, Pointy and Berb are a 60 plus goals a season trio and only the Berb remains for the moment.

Pointy and Berb were just about the best strike partnership in the top flight.

Whatever you say about Mitko in the 2 seasons he has played for us we have scored over 200 goals and that my friends is no coincidence.

The jury is still out on Bent. He can only score against the opposition that's in front of him but he still needs to do it regularly in the Prem.

So if my favourite Bulgarian departs we will probably need two top quality strikers and they aren't easy to find and don't come cheap.

if berbatov stays i am not too worried about our attack: bent, berbatov, dos santos and pekhart is a good group. however, bent was great pre-season lastyear but then fell apart when the season started. his close control and link up play was awful last year. i don't think many questioned his finishing ability. however, this year, he seems to have sorted out his control and link up play, so will we be seeing a better bent this season? i hope so.

money that is going to be spent on arshavin should be spent on 1/2 central defenders 18-23 years old......we need the cover. dawson tackles well, but it just takes once error in a game to concede.

I hope now we have a group of players who just want to play for spurs, that we can see a real team spirit come tgether. dos santos looks like he could be useful in this respect, as is o'hara now he's getting a bigger role to play.

it all looks good, but let's wait until the season starts.

Repy to 43. Ginge1
I disagree that Arsenals back line is superior to ours. I'm suspect about Gomes' ability, not as confident as some on here that he's THAT good. Sagna & Clichy are two escellent fullbacks, and as good as Hutton & Bale are, I think Arsenal's full backs are better. As for Toure & Gallas, I'm not convinced, with Gallas especially. 2 years ago I though he was immense, misused at Chelsea as he was possibly the best CB in teh league. Now however, after seeing Keane & Torres both make a wee boy out of him in games last year, i'm not convinced. He's easily taken on with the ball on the ground and isnt exactly brilliant in the air. And dont think he has it phsycologically . . . cracks under pressure. Toure too, now exactly brilliant in the air, but a quality footballer. I'd take a fit Woodgate & King anyday, though maybe i'm biased.
Fabregas would be the only midfield player I'd take, and as I think Adebayor is the most overrated striker ever (i'm to be convinced he's not a one season wonder) i'd take none of their strikers. Maybe a fit Van Persie.... so my north London select would be
Gomes
Sagna King Woodgate Clichy

Bentley Modric Fabregas Bale/Giovani

Berbatov Van Persie / Arshavin?

Bent will be fine - he had no problems scoring against Premiership opposition for a lesser team (no offence, Charlton) - there's no reason at all to assume he can't do it for a better team such as Tottenham. that's just plain silly. Play to his strengths, play him regularly, and he'll be fine!

typo with psychologically there, sorry! and excellent.. and the... FFS I cant type

Can't see how either Goon full back is better than Baler. As for Toure and Gallas YOU'RE AVIN A LAUGH

Reply to KayBee:

Bent will be fine - he had no problems scoring against Premiership opposition for a lesser team (no offence, Charlton) - there's no reason at all to assume he can't do it for a better team such as Tottenham. that's just plain silly. Play to his strengths, play him regularly, and he'll be fine!

Will he be as good as Berbatov ?

certainly not..

Who is?

My point was, you were saying Bent had to prove himself scoring against Premiership opposition - I'm saying he's already proven himself by scoring 31 league goals over two seasons (13 & 18 goals, wasn't it?) at Charlton with poor service, against Premiership opposition. Works for me! Incidentally, Keano's most league goals in a season (for us) was 16 and Berba's is 15. Berbatov, though, is sublime, one of those rare players who come along once every few years, and it is folly to compare others to him. I'd sell my soul to keep a happy Berba at the Lane.

Reply to TMWNN:

Yeah, could come on with a battered king size Sinckers bar or something.

If I had my way I'd stick Jenas and Zokora in a giant fryer and batter the pair of 'em right up.

i'd throw Dawson in too and turn it up to extra crisp.

Reply to onedavemackay:

Reply to KayBee:

Bent will be fine - he had no problems scoring against Premiership opposition for a lesser team (no offence, Charlton) - there's no reason at all to assume he can't do it for a better team such as Tottenham. that's just plain silly. Play to his strengths, play him regularly, and he'll be fine!

Will he be as good as Berbatov ?

1DaveMac - please clarify the question

For clever flicks and tricks. No.
Head down running for the ball? Bent will be better.
For the good of overall team spirit? Bent again.
For throwing strops that make me want to slap him silly? Berbas the man.
For getting >20 goals a season? Depends on the team formation, the service, the opposition and the number of starts. Bent has the potential to be an overall better goal scorer than Berba, but some things are natural and Bents may never be able to do some of the things that Berbastrop can.

Also. WTF are you plonkers talking about getting existing Scum players into the squad??? ! FFS. Leave our Gareth be and do something useful instead - end of the season trophy cabinet and points tally will tell, and I've all the faith in the world that it will this season.

Reply to KayBee:

My point was, you were saying Bent had to prove himself scoring against Premiership opposition - I'm saying he's already proven himself by scoring 31 league goals over two seasons (13 & 18 goals, wasn't it?) at Charlton with poor service, against Premiership opposition. Works for me! Incidentally,...

You're talking my language.

Reply to tremblyknees:

Reply to onedavemackay:

Reply to KayBee:

Bent will be fine - he had no problems scoring against Premiership opposition for a lesser team (no offence, Charlton) - there's no reason at all to assume he can't do it for a better team such as Tottenham. that's just plain silly. Play to his strengths, play him regularly, and he'll be fine!

Will he be as good as Berbatov ?

1DaveMac - please clarify the question

For clever flicks and tricks. No.
Head down running for the ball? Bent will be better.
For the good of overall team spirit? Bent again.
For throwing strops that make me want to slap him silly? Berbas the man.
For...

Sorry Trembly but "Head down running for the ball? " is that really a talent and as for Bent having the potential to be a better goalscorer than Berb, how exactly ?

Berb being two footed, better in the air, pretty quick, hard to shake off the ball and as skillfull as any Tottenham striker ever I can't see how Bent with far less ability will ever better him.


But hey I've been wrong before............... ask dannyboy.

Reply to KayBee:

My point was, you were saying Bent had to prove himself scoring against Premiership opposition - I'm saying he's already proven himself by scoring 31 league goals over two seasons (13 & 18 goals, wasn't it?) at Charlton with poor service, against Premiership opposition. Works for me! Incidentally,...

Should also say good point about Prem goals. Although, as he was their only striker, he would get most of the chances.

Reply to onedavemackay:

Reply to tremblyknees:

Reply to onedavemackay:

Reply to KayBee:

Bent will be fine - he had no problems scoring against Premiership opposition for a lesser team (no offence, Charlton) - there's no reason at all to assume he can't do it for a better team such as Tottenham. that's just plain silly. Play to his strengths, play him regularly, and he'll be fine!

Will he be as good as Berbatov ?

1DaveMac - please clarify the question

For clever flicks and tricks. No.
Head down running for the ball? Bent will be better.
For the good of overall team spirit? Bent again.
For throwing strops that make me want to slap him silly? Berbas the man.
For...

Sorry Trembly but "Head down running for the ball? " is that really a talent and as for Bent having the potential to be a better goalscorer than Berb, how exactly ?

Berb being two footed, better in the air, pretty quick, hard to shake off the ball and as skillfull as any Tottenham...

1DMac

Yes Berbs is the best footballer that I've seen in a Spurs shirt since Gazza. He's naturally gifted with grace, vision, guile and technique.

If we could keep him motivated and want to play for us, then feck yeah, build the team around him - get everyone else to do the running and jump when he says so. However in recent performances, the can't be arsed attitude takes away more from the team than the flicks and trick he carries off, adds to it. If only he could be like he was in the first season.

Ramos' supposed preferred 1-up front formation and a technical, pacey, fluid and effective midfield with fullbacks bombing up the flanks, would suit either player, but on a fast counter...Bent is a natural in that position. So I would say, yes, head down running with the ball = being able to dribble with pace and control is a talent.

Pointy man wasn't ideal for that role, Berbs just doesn't have that pace or it seems determination, Defoe would snatch at a 30 yard shot rather than bring it home. All I'm saying is with the service Bent's likely to get from midfield this season, and with no chance of a strop in sight he'll probably suit the 'team' more than what I've seen of Berbs so far preseason.

I don't have a crystal ball either, but to be a better goal scorer doesn't mean you have to be a better footballer. Just ask Gary Lineker and we all know that he turned out alright .

Reply to RJ1882:

Repy to 43. Ginge1
I disagree that Arsenals back line is superior to ours. I'm suspect about Gomes' ability, not as confident as some on here that he's THAT good. Sagna & Clichy are two escellent fullbacks, and as good as Hutton & Bale are, I think Arsenal's full backs are better. As for...

On their day Woodgate and King could be as good as anyone, however would you take Gallas or Toure over him if you knew he'd only give you 10 games or so? - just asking.
Also I know its a team game but how many do the Arse concede every year? Gotta be less than us!

As I said I'd argue that King was as good as anyone in the EPL & the whole world for that matter.
Agree about Gomes but still better than big Robbo regardless! Hopefully we won't concede as many 30 yarders this season.

Reply to Ginge1:

Reply to RJ1882:

Repy to 43. Ginge1
I disagree that Arsenals back line is superior to ours. I'm suspect about Gomes' ability, not as confident as some on here that he's THAT good. Sagna & Clichy are two escellent fullbacks, and as good as Hutton & Bale are, I think Arsenal's full backs are better. As for...

On their day Woodgate and King could be as good as anyone, however would you take Gallas or Toure over him if you knew he'd only give you 10 games or so? - just asking.
Also I know its a team game but how many do the Arse concede every year? Gotta be less than us!

As I said...

Am I the only one who is getting pissed off with this hypothetical debate regarding scum players making it into our team?????

For fuck sake - leave it alone will ya!!

Reply to GotThemNotStir:

Reply to Ginge1:

Reply to RJ1882:

Repy to 43. Ginge1
I disagree that Arsenals back line is superior to ours. I'm suspect about Gomes' ability, not as confident as some on here that he's THAT good. Sagna & Clichy are two escellent fullbacks, and as good as Hutton & Bale are, I think Arsenal's full backs are better. As for...

On their day Woodgate and King could be as good as anyone, however would you take Gallas or Toure over him if you knew he'd only give you 10 games or so? - just asking.
Also I know its a team game but how many do the Arse concede every year? Gotta be less than us!

As I said...

Am I the only one who is getting pissed off with this hypothetical debate regarding scum players making it into our team?????

For fuck sake - leave it alone will ya!!

Agreed, feck off with that crap

Harry - just to let you know from one of my inside sources - David Bentley finished his medical in about half the time than was expected. So with his time to kill, he burst into Comolli's office, and whilst waiting for a suprised Damien to finish the paperwork, asked 'So Damien, is Berba staying then or what?.' To which Damien replied 'errrrr I do not know.' So Bentley's reaction? 'Well is he twatting around then? Cos if so, i'll ruffle him up sir!'

Obviously my quotes won't be 100% accurate, but the real words said were to that effect. I for one would love to see our new favourite DB 'ruffle' up his predecessor!

Oh and Bywater was at the lodge yesterday. Hurrah. And Berba has been seen earlier this week, eating lunch on his own, sulking.

erm... anyone else seeing these comments in a weird order today? starts with the last few in reverse order, then starts at comment 9 and goes up. then shows the first 8 at the end!

Reply to BruceCastle:

Reply to TMWNN:

Yeah, could come on with a battered king size Sinckers bar or something.

If I had my way I'd stick Jenas and Zokora in a giant fryer and batter the pair of 'em right up.

i'd throw Dawson in too and turn it up to extra crisp.

You lot who constantly slate players, even before the season has just started, are just cunts, with a capital C. TMWNN arent you just a sweaty anyhow? So fuck right off.

Dannyboy. I have consistently raised concern about dawson. He's nervous, has poor peripheral vision, plays the ball back to the keeper more than a goalkeeping coach and just can't cope without an experienced CM next to him. He faked it when King was fit, but was exposed as weak last year. Him and robbo frightened each other under the covers with worry when we needed them to be confident. This not a off hand preseason observation. We need quality to make a fun for the CL and Daws ain't got it.

Reply to BruceCastle:

Dannyboy. I have consistently raised concern about dawson. He's nervous, has poor peripheral vision, plays the ball back to the keeper more than a goalkeeping coach and just can't cope without an experienced CM next to him. He faked it when King was fit, but was exposed as weak last year. Him and...

I think JJ has quality but is not consistent. Now he's got some very solid competition in midfield, he might concentrate more and shine again. (I think that's what motivated his contract extension).

As for DZ, sorry, I have to say, as I have said before, I don't rate him. His shot's over the bar have some comic value, if you like tragicomedies. He's got pace and can use some muscle and is therefore useful as backup. But not good enough as a first choice

I wish we hadn't sold Tainio. I can't see us bringing in a good Midfield General and his work-rate was unbelievable. I'd swap his blood, sweat and tears for Zok's pointless forays and middle-third fannying about. DZ got robbed a lot last year, leading us to concede on the counter on a number of occasions. I do worry that Ramos and others rate DZ higher than Teemu.

Reply to theoriginaldannyboy:

Reply to BruceCastle:

Reply to TMWNN:

Yeah, could come on with a battered king size Sinckers bar or something.

If I had my way I'd stick Jenas and Zokora in a giant fryer and batter the pair of 'em right up.

i'd throw Dawson in too and turn it up to extra crisp.

You lot who constantly slate players, even before the season has just started, are just cunts, with a capital C. TMWNN arent you just a sweaty anyhow? So fuck right off.

I'm no sweaty danny boy. I just want us to do well next season.
Now the midfield imposters of the last two or three seasons are playing alongside some real quality, it's only going to further highlight their inadequacies.

Reply to TMWNN:

Reply to theoriginaldannyboy:

Reply to BruceCastle:

Reply to TMWNN:

Yeah, could come on with a battered king size Sinckers bar or something.

If I had my way I'd stick Jenas and Zokora in a giant fryer and batter the pair of 'em right up.

i'd throw Dawson in too and turn it up to extra crisp.

You lot who constantly slate players, even before the season has just started, are just cunts, with a capital C. TMWNN arent you just a sweaty anyhow? So fuck right off.

I'm no sweaty danny boy. I just want us to do well next season.
Now the midfield imposters of the last two or three seasons are playing alongside some real quality, it's only going to further highlight their inadequacies.

Or raise their game should it need raising? See what I mean - you're a negative cnut. And a sweaty. Sweaty.

coys

Poor old Bobbo.

Four visits to the back of the onion sack to pick out the pigs bladder against Wolves.

Nice way to start your day Dannyboy. On a Sunday morning too, shame on you.

You might be right though, the players coming in could raise the games of the others, but judging on the last 2 seasons of watching Zokora, I just don't think he's got what it takes to take us top 4. Handy player to have around though due to his versatility, but a mere passenger in a first team heading upwards.

Jenas is a slightly different case, if he can improve his consistency, something that he has failed to do for a number of years, I'll hold my hands up. In the meantime, especially for you, I'll refrain from talking about him in a negative light.

Contrary to my posts/your beliefs, I'm actually very optimistic for this upcoming season. I just think that while Ramos has the broom in hand, he should sweep the room clean.

I want Arshavin in. Anyone ITK?

Apologies for lack of Pre Match Prattle this evening.

The Russians have me surrounded.

My guess is a real game and and 2-1 win.

See you all for complete Horlicks and hopefully some highlights later tonight.

Reply to TMWNN:

Nice way to start your day Dannyboy. On a Sunday morning too, shame on you.

You might be right though, the players coming in could raise the games of the others, but judging on the last 2 seasons of watching Zokora, I just don't think he's got what it takes to take us top 4. Handy...

latest thing i heard was from Ben @ coys:
IT IS A LOT CLOSER NOW. IT NOW HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH MONEY.

LEVY WANTS IT TO HAPPEN, HE REALLY DOES NOW, BUT THERE ARE CERTAIN THINGS THAT MAKE IT SO HARD TO COMPLETE. THAT IS WHAT HE INTENDS TO TRY TO DO, THOUGH.


THATS ALL I CAN SAY.


THAT'S AN UPDATE SENT TO ME AT 12.30 PM LAST NIGHT, WHICH I HAVE JUST GOT!

(wasnt shouting just cut and pasted from site)

I hope he can pull it off, the midfield of Arhavin, Dos Santos, Bentley, Modric and the inclusion of a ball winning DM hard man would be one of the best in the game.

Anyone got a link to the game today, or is it not on at all?

Links for todays game
LINK
LINK

Reply to Chingford Spur:

Anyone got a link to the game today, or is it not on at all?

Its on sky, but if the links dont work I'd go to www.footballfreeview.com. Ive been watching all the prem games all season on there, and it is totally free... there's alittle chat room there where you ca ask "Mystery Man" for links to games or any sport.
Good luck mate.

Its a top site so hopefully everyone will be on there, I actually was watching the chelsea game this morning on there, hoping they would lose... but A.C Milan decided not to play and got battered.

Anyway cant wait for today's game and see what team he picks, J2S should play

Here's my team

Gomes
Gunter Daws (King 2nd half for sharpness) Woody Assou Ekotto
Bentley Modric Jenas(Holding) Bale
J2S
Bent

Reply to kwakspur:

Reply to Chingford Spur:

Anyone got a link to the game today, or is it not on at all?

Its on sky, but if the links dont work I'd go to www.footballfreeview.com. Ive been watching all the prem games all season on there, and it is totally free... there's alittle chat room there where you ca ask "Mystery Man" for links to games or any sport.
Good luck mate.

Its a...

Thanks alot mate.
I'd like to see this team play:
Gomes
Gunter Dawson Woody Bale
Hudd Jenas
Bentley Modric GDS
Bent

I think Bale is a better LB than LM due to his incredible fitness and stamina (and he can tackle). I'd give Lennon a chance 2nd half for either Bentley or GDS, and let O'Hara sit alongside JJ in the 2nd half (put Hudd at the back next to Woody or King). No need for that pathetic excuse for a DM, Zokora.

Prediction: 2-1 (Bent bags a brace)

Gomes
DZ (Bale), Dawson, Woody, BAE(Bale)
JJ (Thud)
Bentley, J2S, Modric,
Berba
Bent

Another prediction: Bale will only be used as a sub once

Reply to BruceCastle:

Prediction: 2-1 (Bent bags a brace)

Gomes
DZ (Bale), Dawson, Woody, BAE(Bale)
JJ (Thud)
Bentley, J2S, Modric,
Berba
Bent

berba, really??

if he starts then i have a senaky suspicion he is gonna stay for the first half of season...or am i still deluded?

That will be two of us then. If that is the case, I just hope Mishka is more positive and doesn't bring any of our eager newcomers down.

Team:

Gomes
DZ, Daws, Thud, Gilberto
Bentley, (capt), O'Hara, Bale,
J2S, Bent

subs:Janssen, Sunther, Smith, BAE, Lennon, Modric, Berbatov

JJ should be down Capt

see ya Berbs!

fearing King is struggling BC

Seems that way. That slip at Carrow Rd has not pretty.

much faster pace than Friday's match.

Reply to Chingford Spur:

Reply to kwakspur:

Reply to Chingford Spur:

Anyone got a link to the game today, or is it not on at all?

Its on sky, but if the links dont work I'd go to www.footballfreeview.com. Ive been watching all the prem games all season on there, and it is totally free... there's alittle chat room there where you ca ask "Mystery Man" for links to games or any sport.
Good luck mate.

Its a...

Thanks alot mate.
I'd like to see this team play:
Gomes
Gunter Dawson Woody Bale
Hudd Jenas
Bentley Modric GDS
Bent

I think Bale is a better LB than LM due to his incredible fitness and stamina (and he can tackle). I'd give Lennon a chance 2nd half...

I agree with you on Bale, but till we get Arshavin to play on left I'd play Bale there.
Looks like Ramos has gone with my formation, and most of my team, apart from the defence.

I think he's trying to see how strong a weak defence can be. Bearing in mind it wont start the prem. And he's also trying to see how Gomes copes with alot of work.

J2S will make that position his own.
If we can get a decent DM and Arshavin I'd love to see us play 4-1-3-2

Which would be

Gomes
Hutton King Woody Bale
Veloso or ???
Bentley Modric Arshavin
J2S
Bent

Bent strikes again!

WHAT A MOVE.... how many passes?

Bent should start season,
he deserves it.

Nicely Done Lads

Reply to BruceCastle:

Bent strikes again!

He's on fire!!

Reply to Seany:

Reply to BruceCastle:

Bent strikes again!

He's on fire!!

Well put him out - we need him!!!!!

Reply to GotThemNotStir:

Reply to Seany:

Reply to BruceCastle:

Bent strikes again!

He's on fire!!

Well put him out - we need him!!!!!

Bale is taking charge on the left. He looks fitter now than he did before his injury last year.

I wish Bale would leave his fucking hair alone - anyone?

Half time thought - O'Hara/Jenas off and Modric on. We've got far too defensive of late in the first half, we need his spreading of play to take more charge of that midfield. Maybe Lennon on too, though I need to see more of Bentley. And Bale is my MOTM so far.

He's trying to keep it away from the bolts on his neck.

He's not had much to do, but I noticed one thing that Gomes did that Robbo never did.

When Valdez put the chance past the post just before half time, Gomes got up and chased the ball before it had gone out, as opposed to Robbo who would have just stayed on his ample belly and watch it go out of play.

Gives me a modicum of increased confidence in our goalkeeping situation.

Nother luverly goal

Some things never change tho...

"Zokora... with pace, with purpose... but no accuracy."

Reply to BruceCastle:

Bent strikes again!

Please God dont let Dawson be first choice this season. Get Berbatov and Modric on in the second half.

Hudd cant defend, he's been really weak!
Like I said, he wants to see how our weakest defence can cope.

Lovely goal by J2S's though.
We really ned Berba to stay, he's made such a difference to our play.
You just cant deny, the man is CLASS.

Modric has to come on in abit.

Reply to BruceCastle:

He's trying to keep it away from the bolts on his neck.

Does Berba coming on mean he's half staying?

Reply to CrossWaddle:

Does Berba coming on mean he's half staying?

Don't know, but he's only half playing. Walking around with his head down most the time.


and DZ boots another one over the bar. Half man - half bronco.

O'Hara Man of Match.

Reply to BruceCastle:

O'Hara Man of Match.

He's impressed me pre-season. He looks like he's got more class about him. Just shows what happens when you give the kids a chance.....on that point, lovely ball from Smith for O'hara's goal - kid looks alright eh?

GTNS

Reply to BruceCastle:

Reply to CrossWaddle:

Does Berba coming on mean he's half staying?

Don't know, but he's only half playing. Walking around with his head down most the time.


and DZ boots another one over the bar. Half man - half bronco.

Ach, you know what he's like. He still ran off the little ankle knock and muscled in on the wings when needed. (He may always be looking down, as if for his toys, but at least he doesn't go and hide in his pram )

I'm sure all will be clear soon enough tho (IE when Levy finds out he's actually signed HH, and Arshavin takes over the blog )

Is it just me that is left screaming at durbatov!! Is it that levy is only playing him to try to speed up manure to buy him before he gets injured! He was just walking around trying not to get injured! Had to get that off my chest only real negative to the pre-season! Bring on the £27m and some-one who wants to play us!!
COYS!!

Dont crucify Berba when we win, do it when we're losing and he's just walking around not caring.
As Usual he had some nice touches, his 1st touch was a perfect through ball for J2S which shouldve been finished.
Berba is class, he knew he didnt have to come out of 2nd gear.

IF berba had refused to play, but he came on & did what everyone expected. Im sure if he dont get his move he'll play for us happily and score 20+ as usual, so dont knock him guys.

Gomes played well in goal.
Bale did well down left, would still like to see him play LB.
O'Hara did really well as holding Midfielder.
Disapponted with Daws and Hudd @ the back, not good enough today, same for Gilberto, I'd say Zokora was average.
J2S & Bentley did well.
Bent got his goal, worked hard and deserves to start against Boro.