Top 5 beautiful own goals of all time:

A moment of magic provided by a Nigerian in Hong-Kong inspired me to the following article - I've painstakingly whittled the list to my personal top 5 - and there have been some unbelievable crackers that have doubtless made it onto all the 'Football Blooper' DVD's!

5). Tony Popovic - Portsmouth v Crystal Palace - Aussie defender Popovic became a crucial cog in Palace's defence in the six years he was at Selhurst Park, even helping them game promotion to the Premier League in 2004/2005.  It was at the very highest level that he saved his career highlight for.  Trailing away 2-1 at Fratton Park, Popovic marvelously back-heeled an ariel Steve Stone cross up and over keeper Julian Speroni into the top corner.  Tremendous technique any centre-half would be proud of.

4). Goran Rubil - Hadjuk Split v Lokomotiva - Croatian midfielder Rubil is the only one to make our list in terms of sheer power from outside the area.  In a big Croatian derby with the two sides locked together in the table, Goran settled the matter by stopping a surging Lokomotiva run, by spanking an absolute jewel beyond his stricken goalkeeper with the whip and power and prime Roberto Carlos would've enjoyed.  Surprisingly he moved onto Greece at the end of the season.

3). Inigo Martínez - Georgia u21's v Spain u21's - This promising young Spanish defender has a bit of the quirky enigma about him, at 20 already having the honour of hitting a magnificent effort from his own half he backed this up by hitting one of the best own goals of modern times.  With his talented young side 6-0 up on a flailing Georgia team - Inigo decided to really stamp his authority on it by flicking a Georgian goalkeeper clearance over David De Gea's head from all of 40 yards - a thing of real beauty.

2). Chris Brass - Bury v Darlington - This was one particular effort that was drew to my attention by one of the festive Football blunder DVD's and surely one that will go down in English football history forever.  In a hugely innocuous game at Gigg Lane Brass got himself what turned out the winner in an 'It shouldn't happen to a Footballer' poll.  Trying to over-head clear a cross deep into the area - all poor Brass achieved was to smash the ball up onto his unsuspecting nose and straight past his stricken goalkeeper into the net.  A beautifully sly 'rub of the nose' followed as he walked off, head hanging in disbelief and a trip to hospital required.

1). Festus Baise - Sun Hei v Citizen AA - The very goal mentioned at the opening of the article that inspired me here.  This Nigerian centre-half (adeptly donning the #7 shirt) has spent his entire career in Hong-Kong and while the footballing nation had never threw out anything for the globe to get excited about - it has now.  This tight game ended 3-2 but will only ever be remembered for one thing - THE own goal that made it into the daily UK Newspaper 'The Sun' and over 1,000,000 viral hits in under a week.  Ironically it was an English player - Jack Sealy - that created the wonder.  A run and cross from the right was heading to the edge of Citizen's area before a backtracking Baise flew into what's been branded world wide as a 'Reverse scorpion kick' and caught it fantastically before watching it fly into the top corner.  A well-worthy winner and a goal we'll be seeing for a long, long time.

Take a look at this!

Horrific, unbelievable and hilarious (no-one was seriously hurt) in that order!

A totally bizarre incident in The U.S.A - where the cart literally takes a mind of it's own - fortunately those involved were a little shaken but OK, it could've been so much worse!

Footage from Youtube below:

ABSOLUTELY UNBELIEVABLE!

Barcelona v Santos - Men against boys.

From the moment the two sides lined up alongside each other in the International Stadium Yokohama the outcome was certain - Watching Neymar in particular, the 'Brazilian Wonderkid', the hope of 'The next Generation' - gazing across at Lionel Messi's figure in the sort of way a student would look up to their teacher or a child would adoringly look up to their parent.







I read a BBC columnist describe the game in terms of Mohammed Ali: "Like watching Mohammed Ali against some outgunned challenger", to me - this performance was that and much more.

Whilst Barcelona eased through comprehensively with a routine 4-0 win over Al Sadd, Santos struggled over the line with a less than convincing 3-1 victory over a spirited Kashiwa Reysol in the semis.  The universal belief, was that of no contest, in fact the whole tournament was just a bit of a stage for Barcelona to show their talent to the rest of the world - those unfortunate enough to have not yet witnessed it anyway.

"Mucha fuerza Guaje" - 'The Barcelona family' show their
support for injured forward Villa.

What was expected of this final though, was a sort of familiarity in styles - the well-documented 'Barcelona family' against this upcoming 'Santos family' - with the likes of Neymar and Ganso being led by figureheads such as Danilo, Borges and Edu Dracena.  Neymar had been well linked to a move to Barca's arch-rivals Real Madrid this year - so much so that he'd apparently penned a £53m transfer deal - all that was brushed aside recently, with the golden boy committing himself to his boyhood club until 2014.

The game could of been a 'What might of been' in terms of a possible 'Classico' pair-up or could well be a trial run for 'What will be' in the great fixture.  Either way, from the moment Neymar was caught almost idolising the impeccably focused World's number one star - stripped out in Barcelona's personal T-shirt tribute to injured David Villa - well, it could have been reminiscent of a scene where lambs are led to the slaughterhouse.

Now from a self-proclaimed 'Barcelona-lover', someone who appreciates the show they put on and enjoys nothing more than to see them rip through sides, this 90 minutes - particular the first half - was almost like the notch had been wound up a count.  They wanted to go out there, win it for their stricken friend but of more importance, show these South Americans that they are the best club side in the world bar none and show them and the rest just how far behind they really are.

As dramatic as it seems, the 4-0 outcome was incredibly kind on poor Santos.  All four goals were terrific and very much 'Barcelona goals' in their own right.  Messi's first goal was on another planet from most you've likely seen anywhere this year, it had it all, from the moment Messi chipped a ball into Xavi, the touch arching his leg behind him to swipe it out of the air and then the delicious through ball into Messi's ongoing run was a joy to behold and would have any fan of the beautiful game out of their seat - because this was it at its most beautiful.  The deft and measured finish summed up Messi's poaching instinct and that difference that led his side to the Club World Cup trophy and himself 'The Golden Ball', whilst Neymar glumly received the Bronze.

Messi's phenominal opener - had everything.

The almost embarrassing nature of Barca's 3-0 half-time lead was softened a little when Santos appeared in the second-half a more spirited outfit (and one that has just had an earful from their boss!).  A further Brazilian starlet, Ganso, played in the shadows of world beaters Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas and Thiago for all of the first half began to find his promising range of passing.  Neymar found himself staring down the nostrils of Victor Valdes on at least two occasions in the second 45 and profited from neither - that poise and composure lacked in his approach - it almost appeared if he felt he couldn't or he wasn't good enough to score against The Catalonians.

Neymar the next Pelé?

Taking the game into its real context it must be acknowledged that yes - Santos did only finish 10th last year in their reasonable average Brazilian State Championship, whilst of course, no one need reminding of Barcelona's 2011 merits.  But what this game served up the chance for was an exhibition, perhaps of the future world stars, the next in a long, long line of Brazilian success stories - Neymar receives numerous Pelé comparisons for pete sake!  The occasion to back these up, came and went - in the blink of an eye - the speed of a Barcelona break-away remains quite something to behold.

Neymar with bronze - Messi with gold: The
start of a great, future rivalry?

Neymar has been described to be one not lacking in self-confidence, he wouldn't of left this stadium thinking "I will never be where he is" or "I'll never be in a squad that successful" he will be analysing his own game - what's is missing from his play that summed up many a purple and blue jerseys dominance?

He may well get his big, big money move into Europe before the end of his 2014 contract, he almost certainly will in fact.  Possible suitors will not be put off by those 90 minutes, Neymar showed in glimpses he had that something special.  Everyone on the planet will just know, as Neymar quoted post-match:

"Barcelona deserved to win.  They are the best team in the world and we learnt an important lesson."

Humbling words from the new-pretender.

Neymar and co can only watch on as the Argentina effortlessly
glides through their defence.

Champions League round of last 16 analysis and predictions:

The first knockout stage couldn't of thrown up more difficult ties for our English sides - whilst Villas-Boas & Wenger won't be over the moon with their outcome -  thankfully, there appeares chances of upsets still remain.

Here, I run through how I believe the final 16 will turn into this years Champions League Quarter-finalists:

Lyon v APOEL Nicosia - The magnificent story of these Cypriot minnows could yet well go on. Whether fortunately or unfortunately - the pulled French giants Olympique Lyonnais - who managed to pull through by the strand of a hair, the polar opposite to these impressive newcomers.  Lyon's magnificent comeback of five goals at Dinamo Zagreb booked their ticket to the next round and it appears they have landed their dream draw in APOEL - who fascinated and intrigued football fans across Europe. Their group stage appeared a 'mini-group of death' with the ever-growing Ukrainians Shakhtar Donetsk and Portugese mainstays Porto expected to progress, impressive home wins against Zenit & Porto branded the final game hosting Shakhtar irrelevent - with APOEL having done more than enough to find themselves through.  With the draw against the Frenchmen, they will be - as their manager suggested "give 100% to get into the last 8", all the luck to them.


Key men - With four goals to get his Cypriot side into the group stages, Brazilian forward Ailton continued his fine form into the group stages with three more vital goals to get them into this inconceivable position.  With no real top European experience, after a long stint in Denmark, the Brazilian will be striving to really take the centre spot on this huge occasion.  The Lyon back four will have to be on their toes to with-stand his pacy, hustle-bustle approach.  Bafétimbi Gomis will need to be at his very best for the French side - with an impressive four goals in the group stages (including the quickest hat-trick in CL history!) he is their main threat and it is - in all honesty - difficult to see Lyon progressing without his goals.

Prediction - Head says APOEL, heart says Lyon - Though I firmly believe the Cypriot side have already faced more difficult tasks in this seasons competition and will stick my neck out and see them progressing.

The Brazilian forward's style will cause the
French defence plenty of problems.

Napoli v Chelsea - Not the draw Andre Villas-Boas would've been looking forward to at all.  After witnessing Napoli's more than impressive performances against Premier League runaways Manchester City, most teams in Europe would have been wanting to avoid Walter Mazzarri's men from Naples.  Containing a front two any side in the world would love to boast of in Ezequiel Lavezzi and Edinson Cavani - Chelsea infamous 'high-line' under the young Portugese boss will have to be at its most water-tight over these 180 minutes.  Chelsea, as of the weekend before Christmas, appear to be improving - Didier Drogba appeared back to his best in the destroyal of Valencia in the 'do-or-die' clash at Stamford Bridge whilst since they have knocked Manchester City's Premier League un-defeated run down the pan.  Napoli don't appear the usual Italian side, with plenty of pressure from the top with 'Tevez-like Argetinean' hastling from Lavezzi, they won't let risky Chelsea defender David Luiz settle and it could well be to Chelsea's cost.

Key men - Napoli will have the youth and energy in central midfield to outrun Chelsea's dogged midfield in Gokhan Inler and Marek Hamsik.  It will though, be the form of afor-mentioned Ezequiel Lavezzi that decides Napoli's fortune, he does much of the un-credit, 'work-horse' work and whilst fellow front-man Edinson Cavani may be the cool one in front of the sticks - Lavezzi's work rate and industry will pressurize Chelsea's backline which has been proved far from tight this year.  It isn't too hard to imagine the front pairing causing Luiz and Terry nightmares.  For the English side, Juan Mata will have to be at the brilliant top of his game to hurt the Italian side, his floating position will doubtless be marshalled significantly by Swiss international Inler, who patrols the area more than effectlively.  However, Mata is one of the best at his game on the planet and has the key to unlock any defence's door - if he can make Chelsea tick, they will get chances - whether he's searching out a top of his game Didier Drogba or the big man that goes missing is another story.

Prediction - Napoli have made Manchester City appear apsolute novices this term, Chelsea will have to be more than wary.  I just cannot see this Chelsea side beeing willing enough to go all out in Naples and believe Napoli have just enough industry and firepower to hurt the Londoners.

Levezzi has caught the eye of everyone in
Europe with his all action forward displays.

AC Milan v Arsenal - Former Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas appeared the most excited man in Europe - especially Milan and London - after the unveiling of this fixture.  Two Europeans stalwarts locking horns at such an early stage is an unfortunate occasion for both, with far more seemingly easier (on paper!) propositions available.  Arsene Wenger's side, out of all the English teams this year, dispatched of their group with consummate ease - many of the games sticking to the Frenchmans policy of blooding a few of the youth options, Oxlade-Chamberlain this year a prime example.  AC Milan, on the other hand came out with the group containing Europe's most feared - Barcelona.  Although fellow groupees BATE Borisov and Viktoria Plzen suggested the decider will be between the two monumental European giants.  With Barcelona eventually coming out on top, Arsenal will be mortified to draw such a prominent 'second position team', a certain Dutch forward will be relishing the opportunity of continuing his mind-numbing form on Europe's biggest stage - against one of the 'Daddies' of world football.

Key men - No competition for the North London men, captain Robin van Persie has been a marvel for the 2011 calender year.  With 33 Premier League goals he is only three goals of an English record - and his European form has not varied, when he's been available - he's buried his goals.  Any defence in the land would struggle to cope with the Dutchman on current form, Thiago Silva and whoever is chosen to partner him will have to have one of the games of their careers to keep him at bay.  In terms of Milan, the Brazilian spearhead pairing of Robinho and Alexander Pato are also enough to worry the meanest defences in the land.  Pato's goal inside a minute at The Camp Nou was something to behold and a standout moment from the tournament so far and if the youngster performes anywhere near his best he will worry Arsenal's thinning defence.  Kevin-Prince Boateng has been mightily impressive since moving from England and has been a key cog with his bullish-energy powering AC forward, Boateng will have to provide the power and panache to cause Per Mertesaker and Laurent Koscielny all sorts of problems.

Prediction - As impressive as the Red and White Milan side appeared against Barca, the easy runs against the Belarusians and and Czechs haven't really proved much.  Many people may disagree, but I can see Wenger's men progressing here - they won't go all the way - but I can see them causing Massimilliano Allegri's men a shock and sinking their hopes.

Dutch marvel Van Persie's burying a fabulous
headed effort against Dortmund at The Emirates
earlier in the competition.

Basel v Bayern Munich - After seeing off English giants Manchester United in the group stages, FC Basel boss Heiko Vogel would have been a tad happier with slightly more favourable draw for his Swiss side.  German legends FC Bayern are many people's - excluding the obvious choices from Spain - favourites to go the full distance this year, just as they did in 2010 when narrowly missing out to José Mourinho's Inter Milan.  Basel may be new to the knockout round scene, but they are seen as no slouches this term - Switzerland legend and all time leading scorer Alexander Frei is the ever-present inside the XI, whilst a link up with his name sake Fabian has proved deadly on more than one occasion domestically and on the Continent.  Captain Marco Streller will be their main source of goals though, with almost one in two since his 2007 move he is deadly in front of goal and showed just that at to stun Old Trafford.  In terms of the Munich giants - most people fail to look past marvelous wingers Arjen Robben & Frank Ribery - both of whom will provide extensive width to twist and turn this already well-tested Swiss back-line.  Whether they can survive a German onslaught like they did an English remains to be seen.

Key players - One man missing from the short piece above that most likely caused a raise is your eyebrows is Xherdan Shaqiri, this 20 year old, Yugoslavian born winger held the real key to unlocking United and getting his side this far.  He added to a vastly impressive Switzerland performance at Wembley recently by bagging the two vital assists that knocked Manchester United out of the top competition - there isn't much about him physically - pace or strength wise yet he holds the most gifted of left feet that can pick a pass, cross or effort on goal seemingly out of nothing.  His quality of set-plays will also be pivotal for Basel on the night too.  A German forward that always seems overlooked in the national side will be the man Bayern look to to progress.  Mario Gomez's scoring rate for the Munich side is phenomenal - he seemingly scores every time he plays and is one of the most feared forwards on the planet.  I fear this strike-power alone could well knock the Swiss side's chances down in progressing.

Prediction - Basel have been excellent in this years' competition - a breath of fresh air - it is hard to see them though, even with all their individual quality, hauling down the mighty Germans.  Bayern always appear there or thereabouts at the business end and barely broke a sweat in the group stages - I believe they will go on from now and really become a force in the competition.

Xherdan Shaqiri in what is becoming somewhat
of a trademark free-kick, will be Basel's best
chance of sneaking past the Germans.

Bayer Leverkusen v Barcelona - I'm sure I could name around 15 other sides Leverkusen would of preferred coming out of the hat with that the Catalan giants.  Recently crowned official 'Kings of the World' with the 4-0 trouncing of Brazilian side Santos - Barcelona haven't escaped so much as a canter in this years group stage, drawn along with aforementioned AC Milan, it was always going to be a fight of the top two and one that FC Barcelona came out on top in.  The draw with Milan at the San Siro was the only minor glitch as they eventually prevailed 7 points ahead of the seven times winners.  German side Leverkusen scraped through by the skin of their teeth in a group not many handed them much hope.  Group winners Chelsea were favourites, but with Spaniards Valencia also there - it was suggested The Mestallans would be the ones joining The Stamford Bridge club.  Swiss forward Eren Derdiyok's goals were vital in the group stages where it was the dramatic final game at the BayArena where Bayer turned round a one goal deficit against Chelsea that was key to them progressing - showing great heart and real courage, leg by the magnificent Michael Ballack - it is something (and a lot, lot more) they will have to bring to the plate against the best side in the world.

Key players - Ballack's return to his German home from Stamford Bridge was pivtotal and in taking the German title in their qualifying for this years tournament.  With full-time skipper Simon Rolfes happy to sit and hold for Leverkuson, Ballack is given a lot of responsibility and freedom to roam the pitch and create bits for Derdiyok and co to feed on.  The german general will have to re-create the form of that awe-inspiring run that took his side all the way to the final in 2002 to have any chance of hurting this fabulous Barcelona side - even Micahel Ballack's best may well not be enough.  Where do you start when looking at Barcelona? Once you've figured out how to deal with Xav, Iniesta, Fabregas, Pedro, Thiago and Alexis Sanchez - many you would include in the top 10 best players in the world - you have to start thinking about #1: Lionel Messi, his form just doesn't hold up - he makes an absolute mug of any European defence and is well worthy of his mantle of best player on the planet (and arguably of all time?) - Lionel always raises his game for the big ones and never fails to deliver, it will be one of the biggest knock-out stage of recent times if Barca fail to prevail here.

Prediction - No-one will hand Bayer Leverkusen a hope in hell - Barcelona will go in odds on and it is quite easy to see why - even with the horrific injury to David Villa it is just to much to believe at such an early stage the reigning Champions will bow out.

The Catalan family celebrating after a marvelous
night in May this year.

CSKA Moscow v Real Madrid - Like Leverkusen before them - CSKA would've hoped for a far easier fixture than drawing the mighty nine times winners from The Bernabou.  The Russian side snatched second in what proved one of the tightest groups in the competition, despite losing two of their three home games, two draws and a win away was enough in the end to push them one point ahead of Turks Trabszonspor and two Lille.  Experienced goalkeeper Iker Casillas has already came out and said "He does not trust them and they will have to be wary of conditions and the pitch" - the freezing Russian winter will be a factor the Spaniard will have to more than consider.  Real on the other hand, went one better than their Spanish counterparts and kept a 100% record all through their group stage - with 18 points and 19 goals scored, with only two conceded - in their six games.  Madrid too could have asked for a slightly less tasking draw, mainly because of conditions which the Russian outfit will be far more adapt too.  Real have the experience, quality and know-how to easily dispatch of their opponents but will have to keep it tight at the back to keep CSKA's powerful and pacy forwards at bay.

Key players - Cristiano Ronaldo is looking ever the part for the Madridistas this term.  With much on his apparent 'second best' performances behind Lionel Messi he has certainly raised his game this time round.  A hat-trick in Real's last game against Seville was again phenomenal, after going missing in 'El Classico' he appeared straight back to his most feared self with a hugely powerful performance.  With the emergence of Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain this year slightly less emphasis has been taken off Ronaldo's input, it hasn't halted him though, his form has arguably improved and at his very best he would be a huge thorn in any European sides' chances.  For the Russians - with five goals in the group stages Ivorian forward Seydou Doumbia is appearing much the part since his Young Boys move in 2010.  The power and agility in his play mixed together with his goal-scoring deftness has taken much of the over-reliance on Brazilian Vagner Love and of course gives opposition a further cause for concern.  With diminutive Alan Dzagoev playing in between the lines in a sort of 'David Silva' or 'Juan Mata' hole feeding the two dangerous forwards CSKA will create opportunities - and you wouldn't bank on the Ivory Coast international Doumbia passing too many up according to his record.

Prediction - I don't believe it will be plain sailing for Real, they will get through - but I think they will struggle with the Russian temperatures and that Pepe and Raul Albiol will do well to have come out of 180 minutes without conceding.

Doumbia has been prolific so far in the Champions
League - with five goals to his name he could pose
Real a 'real' threat.

Zenit St Petersburg v Benfica - It feels proper having the Portuguese side back amongst the big boys - their pedigree suggests they belong in this competition and not the Europa League.  Having began their campaign well holding Manchester United at The Stadium of Light, they followed it up with comfortable victories against Otelul and eventual runners-up FC Basel.  Two draws followed, including a mightily impressive 2-2 at Old Trafford - before the narrow 1-0 victory against Otelul was enough for them to top the group.  Benfica mix youth and experience, along with physical and technical players to great effect in their squad, little tricksters Javier Saviola and Pablo Aimar are always found to be bundling along giant Paraguayan Oscar Cardozo who has proved against many an English side he is one of the most complete forwards in the European game.  Russian side Zenit - on the other hand - have that same advantage of CSKA above them, the climate.  They will expect the cold to effect the side usually compound to warm and sticky sort of weather and look to use their playing strengths to foil Benfica's weakened areas.  Zenit were unfortunate not to go through top, losing out on the head-to-head record with APOEL, although it became a very tight squeeze towards the climax with an improving Porto side pushing for qualification, having qualified with 4 draws, a defeat and a victory they may be viewed as outsiders but with the strength in depth of experienced, full-timed Russia internationals with Anyukov, Zyryanov and Denisov gives the outfit a strong base.  Their scoring did dry up towards the end of the group stages but they don't concede many and are a very well drilled defensive outfit.

Key players - Nicolás Gaitán was far and away Benfica's most prominent attacking force in the group stages, his impressive performances and the amount of assists he stacked up (5, highest in tournament) have meant he is one of Europe's most wanted, constantly linked with a move away from the Portuguese side - especially before the game at Old Trafford - which he starred in.  Gaitán has refused any rumours and has suggested he wants to make history with the legendary side before he moves on to other avenues.  For Zenit, winger Danny will be hoping to provide the goods against his fellow Portuguese internationals.  The temperamental player cost Zenit a huge 30 million euros, raising many eyebrows across the Continent - there will be no better time for him to prove his worth to Zenit fans by solely staking a place in the Quarter-finals.  Danny can have off days where he disappears far too much but is one Zenit player who can create something from nothing and light up a very ordinary game - many hopes ad dreams will be centralised around him.

Prediction - Benfica have qualities to see off this Russian side, with the service Gaitán, Aimar and Saviola can provide big Oscar Cordozo it is hard to imagine them not creating a fair few chances.  Zenit do not have the individual class of the Portuguese and it's here they'll shine through.

A regular image this year has been Nicolás Gaitán
celebrating with his Argentinean counterparts in
their South-American look Benfica side.

Marseille v Inter Milan - A far closer one this one, I believe, than many have made out - Marseille are appearing an ever improving side and Inter are currently going through a reformation - after a horribly slow start, they did well to finish up top but with two defeats it could of all gone so horribly wrong.  A humiliating opening day defeat in Trabzonspor was followed by a vital victory in Russia in harsh temperatures.  Then table-deciding victories over French side Lille guaranteed their qualification - branding their last game - the second defeat of the group - meaningless.  Their opening to the domestic league wasn't much more convincing, summer signings Diego Forlan was bought in to fill the void left by the departing Samuel Eto'o and aging Diego Milito - the Uruguayan hasn't fulfilled potential and they appear a bit toothless up top.  However, a side that contains the majestic Wesley Sneijder in midfield will never fail to create opportunities.  Marseilles path to the last 16 was that of much drama, they were five minutes from going out before goals from Andre Ayew and Mathieu Valbuena took them to dreamland.  The French side contain a fair bit of flair, they weren't exactly watertight though and this will be something Sneijder and co would look to expose.

Key players - Andre Ayew, this week named BBC's African player of the year is a particular player Marseille are very proud to boast of in their ranks.  So full of potential - strength, pace and guile he has it all, if he can just keep that fiery personality under-cap he will rise into a great, great player he will really be able to cause the aging areas of Inter's back line - perhaps Zanetti and Cordoba - problems.  We've mentioned him before, but there's just no looking past him, the Dutch general - Wesley Sneijder, as technically gifted as they get, he can open a can of beans with his right peg and Inter's fortunes generally do relate to how much of the ball he sees.  Inter have been steadying the ship since their truly disastrous start - whether their decent run can continue and see them past the French side is a tough one.  They have the experience in such positions - but Marseille have proved to fight until the death - and really have the players who can perform something out of the hat to get them though, this one's certainly not a foregone conclusion.

Prediction - I'm going to really stick my neck out for the first time in this analysis and say a Marseille win over the two legs, Inter are really going through a transitional period and although they have one or two world beaters peppered through the squad - Marseille's attitude and experience so far this term will make them believe they can get through anything anyone throws at them.

If he can sort his attitude out - the Ghanaian has the
attributes to go right to the top of the game.

Anelka unveiled as 'World Of Warcraft' boss's newest character.

Getty Images: Anelka with Chairman Zhu Jhun

United States, U.A.E and Russia are just a few examples of countries that spring to mind when a 'Global Superstar' reaching the climax of his career pops up.  Look at Beckham, he has single-handedly turned the MLS on its head over the pond, since then Robbie Keane has followed suit.  There was no keeping quite of the 'Anzhi-Eto'o' summer saga either, many of these players state personal reasons for their moves; new country for family, new traditions etc - but with Nicolas Anelka's January switch to Shanghai Shenhua - the powerhouses in business are really beginning to flex their muscles.


With the exclusion of Gazza, whose mightily unimpressive four game Chine stay in 2003 didn't end too well - no real 'Global icon' has given the SuperLeague a real go.  The Chinese football market is that of one beginning to flourish, their top league only turned professional in 1994 and the SuperLeague ten years later.  Perhaps behind all footballers moving to such a nation to complete their professional years do have dollar signs rolling in the back of their heads somewhere, but it would be nice to believe some do hop over to really help and move the leagues forward

Gazza was the prime example of how
such a move can go horribly wrong

.

This is where Anelka's switch shines out - according to ex-Chelsea boss Avram Grant Anelka "Always goes for the best deal" and whilst his lethargic, expressionless attitude at Stamford Bridge must have wound up many a Chelsea fan, it will be very interesting to see if his body language changes.

'Hi-5!' The ex-City teammates will now
be rivals in the SuperLeague

Maybe of course, he just misses his ex-Manchester City Sun Jihai - now of Shaanxi Renhe - so much he had to cross two continents to be re-united.



One is slightly leaning towards the former.

Shangai's latest owner (they have had three in almost as many months!) is Zhu Jhun - a multi-millionaire behind many of the Chinese games development and more impressively - the controversial online fantasy: World of Warcraft (WOW). Anelka has landed himself a pay-package of £200k a week, with his time dwindling out at Chelsea, whilst being stuck next to Fernando Torres on the substitute bench he must have wondered just where it was all heading.  This Chinese contract would have made him feel all his Christmas's had come at once.

Marlon Harewood - a fellow journeyman (admittedly on a slightly cheaper scale than Nic) spent 10 games playing for Guangzhou R&F, he is now incidentally back in England desperately searching for a Championship club to take him up.  According to ex-Villa and Blackpool man Harewood, that is all the Chinese SuperLeague is at the moment a "Decent Championship level".

Former Villa forward Harewood in happier
Guangzhou times.

Not half-a-bad salary for The Championship, eh Nic?  Even if his lethargic persona was still attached in Shanghai, his undoubted talent will get him through - he will score goals.  The pivotal question will be conditions and settlement, completely a la a certain Cameroonian forward in Russia.  It's a far cry off the days of Stamford Bridge, The Bernabou or Anfield but if anyone can acclimatise to a side that is only 18 years old, with a stadium capacity of just over 30,000, for £200,000 a week I would put my savings on it being Nicholas Anelka.

I wish him all the luck, perhaps he could spark that transition of world stars to the East, or perhaps he'll give it even less than Marlon Harewood, even less than Paul Gascoigne - to decide if it really is for him.

Maybe Anelka should reply to Sun Jihai's phone calls.

Charlemont Star 0-2 Darkhouse match report

http://www.charlemontstarfc.co.uk/club/153630/News/view/620183

5 Of the best!: The top 5 Premier League goals from the weekend.

5). Steven Reid - West Bromwich Albion 1-2 Wigan Athletic - The ex-Blackburn utility man is no stranger to rockets, I can instantly think back to a corking effort for the Rovers at The DW Stadium a few years back. The Irishman here though, bought something else out of his top drawer and showed the finesse in his long shooting is just as prominent as his power. In the vital game for The Latics on Saturday - Reid punctured Wigan's fans hearts with a fabulous free-kick. 25 yards out of Ali Al-Habsi's goal, slightly to the left of centre - Reid bent a beautiful free kick up and over the Wigan wall and curled magnificently into the Omani's net. Not exactly what springs to mind when Steven Reid's name is bought up in conversation, perhaps portrayed by the shocked joy on his team-mates faces. A superb opener none-the-less.

4). David Vaughan - Sunderland 2-1 Blackburn Rovers - The Welsh international will be the first to tell you his career in the North-East has not began how he would've hoped - after a hugely impressive debut Premier League season with Blackpool last time out. Vaughan had earlier in the season lost his first team spot to skipper Lee Cattermole and has since struggled to win it back. Sunday's smashing effort wouldn't of done him any harm though, as in-front of brand new boss Martin O'Neill - the former Real Sociedad Midfielder hit a fabulous 25 yard strike that had all the swerve and whip on it of an inch perfect strike, giving Blackburn stopper Paul Robinson no hope. There was 84 minutes on the clock at the time of Vaughan's game changing strike - equalising for Sunderland - as they went on to take the win in stoppage time, Vaughan's effort may well act as a season changer for The Black Cats - not a bad season changer in anyone's book.

3). Demba Ba - Norwich 4-2 Newcastle United - One suggests after the start to the season this man has enjoyed - it may well not be the last time we witness him on our list this term. This effort had it all, the vision and technique from French creature-in-chief Yohan Cabaye to perfectly pick out the Senegalese international's run - before a stunning first touch - killing the ball dead on his toe from an over the shoulder pass, led him to a delightful finish past the onrushing John Ruddy. Ba is causing a huge stir in the League, going on to net his 10th and 11th League goals on Saturday, he seems to hold everything in his locker for a fine Premier League forward. The pace, power and most prominently - especially Saturday - finishing ability when in one-on-one situations (his second goal weren't bad either!). Demba Ba will go a long way this season, you would have to be mad to take him out of the running for The Golden Boot at this stage!

2). Sebastian Larsson - Sunderland 2-1 Blackburn Rovers - Just like Vaughan's above - but even more dramatic! You're under the extensively-beady eyes of your new boss, having to proove your worth to the side all over again under the new manager - so, to pick out a trademark free-kick to give the boss a win in the last minute of his first game can't be a bad way to start - can it? Mauro Formica was penalised for handball into injury time at the Stadium of Light and Sebastian - who is no stranger to our 'Goals of the week' list stepped up rather confidently to the ball seemingly placed perfectly for his strike. If you're a Sunderland fan, now is the time to feel confident, along with earlier efforts for his new side - this Swede has proved at his time at St Andrews and The Emirates that there isn't too many in the business better in such positions. The confidence paid off, as he bent an effort, admittedly with contrast to his usual set-pieces cleverly in at the near post. With Robinson expecting a high, bending effort this did the job superbly and sparked crazy scenes on the sides with MO'N resuming his desperately missed touchline antics. Fantastic under-pressure, game winning effort.

1). Robin van Persie - Arsenal 1-0 Everton - Was there really any competition this week? The Emirates was packed full of a group of Gunners legend (and - erm... Lee Dixon) to celebrate Arsenal Football Club's 125th anniversary - and with the form he's on at the moment, it wasn't surprising that a certain Dutchmen gave geniuses of the past something to really get excited about. With Messes Henry, Pires and Wright to name but a few watching on from the sides, Van Persie broke the games deadlock with a breathtaking volley that well could hold its own in a 'Goal of the season' so far event. Impressive midfielder Alex Song drove forward before lobbing the most delightful of through ball straight into the Arsenal skipper's path - watching the ball all the way onto that magical left foot he hit a first time volley - using a bit of the outside of his foot to create curl - into Tim Howards's bottom corner, before he could even blink. The legends of the game would've instantly known they had witnessed a classic, will go down in Gunners' memory just as his effort against Charlton at The Valley did years earlier - an absolutely phenomenal effort by a phenomenal player - his 33rd goal of the calender year, only one now behind a certain Mr Va Va Voom in the crowd and only three behind the all-time Premier League record. Considering the hectic Christmas fixture period, here's to him knocking Alan Shearer off his perch.

This week's winner - Van Persie's memorable volley on Arsenal's 

125th birthday, a man at the top of his powers.

Not so shrewd business!

There have been many phenomenal, bargain purchases since the inaugural Premier League season. For every Paolo Di Canio, there’s been an Alberto Aquilani. For every Ruud van Nistelrooy, there’s been an Afonso Alves. It remains so, so difficult for managers to spend their cash wisely and it has to be said, on many of the occasions it goes horribly wrong – it can’t half be a joy for neutral fans!


Here is the list of the current Premier League lot’s worst ever – be warned, there are some clangers down below!

Arsenal – Francis Jeffers – Signed from Everton £8m – On paper, this was yet another piece of genius from Wenger, “Fox in the box” Jeffers enjoyed a terrific time at Goodison Park – with 1 goal every 3 league games. Yet never found anything like that sort of form for The Gunners, only 22 league appearances (many as sub) were quickly followed by shipping Francis out to Charlton and he has never been seen at the top of the English game since. He is currently attempting to break the mean defences found in Australia’s A League. How the mighty can fall.

Aston Villa – Bosko Balaban – Signed from Dinamo Zagreb £5.8m – Bosko Balaban, the name alone sounds shudders around many a Premier League defender, but even more around the Villa Park faithful. This Croat spent 2-and-a-half years in The Midlands and finished with 2 league starts. A shame really, as despite an impressive scoring record everywhere else and a name with a fine ring to it - Bosko departed to Belgium. Thankfully though, he received some recognition – on The Times list of ‘Top 50 Worst Ever Footballers’ – bit harsh.

Blackburn – Corrado Grabbi – Signed from Ternana £6.75m – Fair to say Grabbi didn’t quite make the list of the Italian great centre-forwards – Del Piero and Inzaghi can sleep safely. Despite his well-publicised woefulness at Ewood Park, Corrado still has a loyal following of fans who love him on reflection – but for practically £7m – his 2 goals in 30 appearances more than likely didn’t bring quite the same love in 2003. Perhaps Graeme Souness – notoriously sharp in the transfer windows – should’ve realised that his reputation with Ternana wasn’t gained in ‘Serie A’.

Bolton – Mario Jardel – Signed from Sporting Lisbon £0 - Jardel could have easily became one the all time great Premier League finishers – his scoring record in Brazil, Turkey & Portugal was ludicrously good (more than a goal a game most seasons!). Mario though – will be forever remembered as ‘the man who never made it’. Following 7 appearances and no goals he did what all great Brazilian strikers do when they have reached the pinnacle of their careers – pig out and move back to Brazilian football. He made the free transfer seem outrageously overpriced!

Chelsea – Andriy Shevchenko – Signed from AC Milan £30.8m – So Roman and Jose finally got their man, the Ballon d’Or winner – feared across world football – Andriy Shevchenko in a British record £30m + bid. Where oh where did it go so belly-up? To contextualise it, Sheva is making current flop Fernando Torres look an inspired purchase. He failed to reach league goal double figures in two years at Stamford Bridge and promptly legged it back to Ukraine in 2009, golden reputation in tatters with those Serie A and Champions League medals safely at the bottom of his boot-bag.

Everton – Per KrǾldrup – Signed from Udinese £5m – Six years ago this Danish defender was entering his prime years and was universally understood to be one of the hottest centre back prodigies in Europe. It was when Everton did superbly well to beat off competition and ‘snap him up’ at £5m that he and the rest of the Premier League saw he was a player who belonged back in Italy. Per only featured once for The Toffees – a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Aston Villa, that’s roughly £5m per appearance, the score-line didn’t bode too well for the Dane, who most probably figured that the quicker he escaped Merseyside the better.

Fulham – Steve Marlet – Signed from Lyon £11.5m – First of all - £11.5m is a lot of money now, 11 years ago it wasn’t far off un-heard of. To this day Marlet stands as Fulham’s record purchase – and to this day no-one knows why. With 11 goals in 54 games, owner Mohammed Al Fayed was so incensed with Marlet’s lack of quality he took then Manager Jean Tigana to court claiming he ‘paid an exorbitant fee’ because of his ties with Lyon. Steve can always look back at Fulham’s proud history and see his name in the record books, now at amateur club FC Red Star – one highly doubts that drab goals/game ratio has improved.

Liverpool – Sean Dundee – Signed from Karlsruher SC £2m – Those expecting extortionate flops such as Alberto Aquilani or El-Hadji Diouf can think again, this South African wins hands down. Despite only 3 lacklustre substitute appearances at the end of ‘98/’99 – Mr Dundee’s name still sends shudders down any Kopite’s spine. The ‘speedster’, upon arrival claimed “I’m faster than Michael Owen” (This is the spring-chicken Owen, mind). To suggest he couldn’t break Owen’s strike partnership with another Anfield ‘Great’ Karl-Heinz Riedle says it all really. Widely regarded as the worst ever to wear the red shirt.

Manchester City – Vicente Matías Vuoso – Signed from Independiente £3.5m – Not a huge sum of money, you may argue. You’d be correct – if you’re considering the ‘Sheik’ era at The Etihad. 2002 was a very different time and £3.5m wasn’t exactly pocket change, well – you would certainly expect a lot more for your money than an Argentine sulk who failed to appear once for the club and blamed his inability to settle and learn English because it was a “Primitive language” (yes, direct quote). Citizens could certainly think of 3,500,000 better ways to spend £1 than this failed Argentinean forward.

Manchester United – Massimo Taibi – Signed from Venezia £4.5m – Possibly the most famous foreigner to only make 4 Premier League appearances of all time. This Italian stopper beat stiff competition from £28m man Juan Veron to make #1. A howler against arch-rivals Liverpool isn’t the best way to start your United career, but when you consider he followed it up with the Premier League blooper of them all allowing Matt Le Tissier to score (you will have seen the videos) and then finishing a splendid Old Trafford career on the receiving of a 5-0 demolition courtesy of Chelsea. Papers dubbed him “The Blind Venetian” yet he swiftly managed to find his way back to Italy in January.

Newcastle United – Albert Luque – Signed from Deportivo £9.5m – Albert was the starlet of Spanish football. He flourished alongside the likes of Juan Capdevila, Juan Valeron, Diego Tristan & Spanish legend Fran in a side brimming with quality. Other avenues were bound to open and in 2006 he chose Newcastle. Albert’s time was not enjoyed, he largely disappointed with 1 goal in 21 appearances. Luque found himself falling lower and lower in the pecking order – eventually so low he fell behind Matty Pattison (now playing in South Africa). His last shirt number at Newcastle was 17, previously of Titus Bramble – with that he fled to Holland and didn’t return.

Norwich City – Mattias Jonson – Signed from BrǾndby £850k – The European Championships of 2004 were not one of the greatest – a decisively poor Greek squad took home the winners medals and all players ‘uncovered’ here didn’t go on to achieve much. This is – in any case – the excuse we are acquiring to Jonson, who enjoyed a “fantastic” tournament with Sweden, grabbing the important goal against rivals Denmark. He was snatched by newly-promoted Norwich for a big fee (under circumstances), handed the #9 shirt and the job to keep them up – 28 games and 0 goals later the excitement had seemingly evaporated and it is no surprise A) Norwich subsequently went straight back down and B) He has played in Sweden ever since.

QPR – Armel Tchakounte – Signed from Carshalton Athletic £0 – How many Conference players are full-time internationals? Well apparently representing Cameroon on a regular basis was a huge part of QPR snapping Armel up from Carshalton Athletic of the Conference South – it turned out he was once an un-used sub – and his time at Loftus Road really confirmed it. To be fair, he did match his international appearances domestically – bagging 3 un-used bench-warmings. Before suffering a to-this-day ‘mysterious’ injury and has never been seen in England since.

Stoke City – Dave Kitson – Signed from Reading £5.5m – As a £5m+ record signing for your new club, you don’t expect to be left out of the side for James Beattie, that’s the reality the ex-Reading man was faced with at The Brittania. Did he have a leg to stand on though? No goals in 16 league games portrayed a far from prolific first term – when you go out to the newspapers though – and are quoted with “I hold my hands up – I shouldn’t of gone to Stoke”, you are asking for trouble. After only three league goals in 18 the following season, he was shown the back door – a less than satisfied Tony Pulis branding him “Petulant” on the way.

Sunderland – Tore André Flo – Signed from Rangers £6.75m – When as a supporter you place your faith in your manager to go out there with big funds and replace a club legend – you expect him to deliver. Unfortunately in Peter Reid’s case, this big Norwegian was certainly no Niall Quinn and this in itself was more than likely a deciding factor in Howard Wilkinson soon picking up the reigns. Wilkinson was not a fan of the Norwegian’s ‘long-ball antics’ & the club found themselves relegated with the then lowest ever point total. The higher paid ‘stars’ had to be let go and fortunately for Sunderland – Tore André was seen as one of them

Swansea City – Pawel Abbott – Signed from Huddersfield Town £150k – Pawel Tadeusz Howard Abbott, such a fine name for a half Polish/half English centre forward. A more than decent lower league reputation for being a prolific goalscorer but unfortunately for The Swans as of 2007 became more of a ‘boy-boys’ target and accustomed to a few ‘hand-over-eyes’ moments. Luckily, at £150k they didn’t turn over such a huge loss, Pawel went on to continue a very respectable scoring record at Darlington & Oldham. Must have been the weather in Wales...

Tottenham Hotspurs – Hélder Postiga – Signed from Porto £8.36m – A rising European talent growing inside a fine Porto side – that won the Champions League – during the year Hélder spent warming the North London bench. It wasn’t long before the media cottoned on to his inability to hit the back of the net, the reputation he was signed with soon abandoned him and whilst he became the laughing stock of English football, his pals Deco and co were historically victorious in being the only Portuguese side ever to win in Europe. Postiga went back the following year and Porto have not even come close to re-living the dizzying European heights – a sign for poor old Hélder?

West Bromwich Albion – Borja Valero – Signed from Mallorca £4.7m – The ‘yo-yoing’ side from the West Midlands were infamous in not splashing out wildly they as stepped back up into The Premier League after a victorious Championship campaign. Though, the biggest – and most disastrous – exception to this rule has to be Valero, a whopping sum of almost £5m it cost to prize him from Mallorca. After appearing vastly lethargic and not really achieving anything Spanish midfielders do best, he was shipped out on loan for two terms. Eventually Villarreal became new suitors & has since picked up his first national side cap. Typical...

Wigan – Jason Scotland – Signed from Swansea £2m – What a reputation this Championship forward was building for himself - couldn’t stop scoring in a less-than-attack-minded Swansea side and was soon snapped up by The Latics in what appeared a bargain coup for Roberto Martinez. Making his debut on August 15^th it took Jason Scotland until April 4^th to bag his first League goal – a horrific run of 29(!) league games. Upon signings for his predecessors Swansea he claimed “I thought it was England”, poor old Scotland might’ve been glad of the Welsh opportunity before the English Premier League tore him to shreds.

Wolves – Tomasz Frankowski – Signed from Elche £1.4m – After scoring 9 goals in 11 games for your country on the road to a World Cup, all must have seemed to be going dreamily for this Pole. To then suffer what can only be seen as a ‘footballing nightmare’ and appear 16 times in The Championship without netting a single goal – turned his dream into a vicious nightmare. It didn’t stop there, after earning the horrendous nickname “The Pole with no goal”, Pawel Janas then left him out of the Polish squad for Germany – an omission that will surely haunt him forever. Otherwise enjoying a vastly successful career, the word ‘Molineux’ must still make Tomasz dive for the covers.

Average price paid for ‘Worst ever signing’ = £5.928m

Revival Fires 2-4 Charlemont Star match report

http://www.charlemontstarfc.co.uk/club/153630/News/view/617713

Kenny Dalglish on Rooney's one game let off:

Despite the instant euphoria surrounding any England fan that saw key-man Wayne Rooney's Euro 2012 ban lifted from three to two games, it was hard not to notice what the Liverpool Manager had to say about it and given wherever your loyalities lie - you may of believed - if, only for an instant there was a small element of truth in his words.

Dalglish referred first of all to the FA's decision to even appeal to UEFA, branding it: "a bit strange" when the FA were supposed to be "setting an example" against all such things on a football pitch.

Image courtesy of BBC - Kenny Dalglish branded The FA's
decision to appeal against the Rooney ban: "A bit strange" yesterday.

From this we may sit up and think, 'this is very true', what Rooney did was violently lash-out and was well worthy of the dismissal - when abiding by the rule book. An instant 3 match ban rightly followed, context - in my opinion - should not be taken into account here, if Rooney was petulant enough to step onto that field knowing the Tournament next year was right around the corner and still loose it to the extent of swiping at someone - why shouldn't he face the deserving punishment?

Dalglish of course, has never exactly saw eye-to-eye with Rooney's club manager and mentor, Sir Alex Ferguson, so perhaps this was just a bit 'tounge in cheek' at a United player getting let off the hook - some may believe. The Liverpool boss isn't really interested in the shortening of the ban though, it is clearly that the FA deemed it 'appealable' and went against all moral codes in what looked a sign of 'desperation' to get the main man available for at least a small stint of the upcoming Championships.

The English footballing community as a whole were very dismissive of Wayne after the incident - calling him 'silly' and 'stupid'. Perhaps this was a real positive for not only the footballers around Rooney, as an incentive to not get caught acting maliciously but the children of todays society, the future stars who, would learn from all the negative press Rooney receieved and really believe that it was such a wrong thing & hopefully to the extent that they'd learn at such an early age to cut it out their game.

That is the 'setting an example' I believe Dalglish was relating to - now kids and players alike will take note that with a simple appeal - against the leading organisation in European football - Rooney has got off lightly, so maybe next time such an outrageous thing crosses their mind they may not hold back, but take the belief that with an appeal they may get off 'scott-free' or perhaps even more worryingly the context of their violent act wasn't out of place.

England loyalist or not - it is my strong belief that the Manchester United forward should have accepted what was given to him, learn from it - really learn this time Wayne and not do it again.
Yet here we are, his place available for the final group game of Euro 2012, perhaps a successful run through the tournament - and all will by forgotten. Well... until the next time Rooney explodes.

The frustratingly 'delicate' world of the ligaments...

In the last week alone the English Premier League has been struck by a hand full of demoralising 'ligament related' injuries. Liverpool's Lucas Leiva, West Bromwich Albion's Zolton Gera and yesterday Manchester United's Javier Hernandez have all had their form and season ruined by either tearing, snapping or spraining odd-bits in their knees and ankles they didn't even realise existed!

What interests me - is the timing of the injuries - they all seem to go away for a short period of time and then 'BAM!' pop up all at onces like London buses. Ligament damage is not exactly a brand new idea - in the late 90's and early turn of the century Brazilian legend Ronaldo went on to pick up some horrific knee-injuries that were widely predicted to end a marvelous career before it had even started.



The amount of pain suffered from such an injury
is evident on the Brazilian's face.



Without being a sports-science genius (I struggled in BTEC-The Body In Sport!) the ligaments - along with their friends: the tendons - are a huge part of how the muscles and joints operate, they are very, very sensitive and with one innocuous, false move that could be your lot for 6 months minimum (as the above have found recently).

A quick delve into footballing injuries though - and speaking to Grandparents! - 'ligement' frailties are moving along with the times - modern technology allows doctors and physios a more in-depth look at any part of the body. Was this why 'real, hard footballers' of the 60's, 70's and 80's only ever suffered from broken bones? The human body doesn't change of course - so perhaps these injuries existed - but just weren't recognised and therefore could not be acted upon. The 'hard' description of a more golden era English footballer would cite them soldiering on through the mud with such injuries as this along with broken bones!

We could here - open all a whole new argument of the modern football being far too pampered and protected, of course times have changed - players now have nutritous diets to help with there fitness, regular sessions in the gym and countless drab one-to-one sessions with physios more than likely on a daily basis. However, no one can be prepared for the un-prepareable - Stamford Bridge witnessed a resurgent Liverpool side, led by midfielder Lucas who seems on a new lease of life - suffer a heart-mellowing cruciate knee ligament injury after a 'nothing' challenge on Juan Mata. The innocence of the fall, the slight bend of the knee was all it took to halt the Brazilian in his tracks and keep hi sidelines for the next 6 months.

Quite similarly - West Brom's returning talismanic Hungarian Zoltan Gera was appearing in his first starts for the Baggies since his return to The Hawthorns - impressing in the odd substitute appearence - his first run out from the start against Tottenham, helping the side take a shock early lead against high flyers Spurs - before horrifically rupturing his anterior cruciate knee ligament, like Lucas, will be missing for the next 6-9 months. For many, it is perhaps the shocking nature at just how easily these injuries come about - it cannot be controlled - todays players are more than healthy, at the peak of physical fitness, it can be such a body blow that what is seen as a minor challenge can be so physically and mentally breaking for the vastly unfortunate receiver.

Albion cult-hero was hit by the chronic injury just
21 minutes into his full WBA return.

The likes of Lucas and Javier Hernandez very much have time on their side, being 24 and 23 respectively they have not even reached the peak of their footballing years - it is all the more serious for veterens like Gera though who, at the age of 32 has now found out that perhaps half of his returning 2 year stint with the club he has such a passionate affair with - will now be spend in the physio room - all such momentum lost. The will power to recover from a set-back, at that stage of any career would be phenominal.

Many of the well-natured football fans of our day can sense a career-threatening injury - the image of a hero being stretchered off whilst attached to a breathing assistant - is that of terrible morbidness. Opposition fans are often found joining in with the standing ovation, they know what it is like losing one of their men for such a period, getting so much pain over something you love doing so much is a recognised feeling and one shared by all.

Unfortunately, football is not a non-contact sport, accidents do happen and when they come around - these stars have to show their willpower and sticking ability to recovering and returning to where they were on the field. There will, doubtless be numerous further agonising injuries occuring today as I write - over the weeks, over the months. Players do recover, look at Ronaldo earlier - there are the unfortunate ones however, whose bodies just couldn't get them over the finishing line.

I'm sure as a fan of our game, you will join with me and wish Lucas, Gera and Hernandez a speedy recovery as the ever delicate yet agonising painful image of a ligament injury is one not welcome in football.