Pavel Pogrebnyak has hailed English football as “paradise” after making an impressive start to his career at Reading.
The 28-year-old Russia international made an instant impact in the Premier League during a loan spell at Fulham last season in which he scored six goals in 12 games, and the former Stuttgart man netted against Chelsea in his second game for the Royals. It is no surprise to Pogrebnyak that he is enjoying his football having been an admirer of the English game since he was a youngster.
He told Russian Sports website sports.ru:
“My dream has always been to play in the Premier League. At the end of the 90s I liked watching English football very much so I wanted to sign in England but I didn’t think it would happen so late. But now I’m here and I’m happy about it. The first time I watched English football (live) was in 2001 or 2002. I decided to go to a Premier League game (with a friend). We were both Manchester United fans and our favourite players – Giggs, Scholes, Beckham – were running around. That’s why I always try to get the No 7 shirt.”
Asked why he preferred English football, Pogrebnyak explained:
“Because of the speed, fights and tough play. As a striker I always liked crosses from the wings. When I was sitting in front of the television in Russia I was amazed to see when someone heads the ball after a big jump or started to dribble, it was very fascinating for me to see. Scoring a goal like this and then running to the fans – it’s like paradise for me.”
More doubt has been cast over the future of Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini, according to the Sun.
The skipper was in Argentina at the beginning of March for rehab on his back injury, sustained when he did his spectacular bicycle-kick clearance against Southampton.
After stating that he wanted to return home on a permanent basis in January, the Argentine was linked with a transfer to San Lorenzo, but no deal was made between the two clubs.
However, Newcastle fans have more reason to be worried about Coloccini’s future, after he was spotted signing with travelling San Lorenzo fans during their sides’ win at the weekend. Coloccini stood in the stands with fellow supporters, and looked extremely happy to be at the club.
Coloccini was desperate to sign for San Lorenzo in January, and even wrote an open letter to their fans, revealing his disappointment that a deal couldn’t happen. His dad, Osvaldo, is a youth coach at the club, adding further speculation that the Argentine will be at the club in the near future.
Coloccini’s contract doesn’t expire until 2016, however the possibilities of the current captain playing for the Toon again are growing slimmer. Coloccini isn’t expected to feature in Newcastle’s trip to the Etihad to play Manchester City, as he recovers from his back injury.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Tottenham are expected to confirm the signing of France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris later today, according to The Mirror.
The fee for the Lyon stopper is expected to be in the region of £12 million pounds, which would make him the fifth most expensive goalkeeper of all time.
Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas says that the decision now lies with Lloris on whether he wants to move to England after accepting an offer from Spurs: “We were close to Tottenham and now the decision is up to Hugo, who must have had a number of contacts with the English club. This transfer can be done at the end of the transfer window.”
Aulas added that ideally Lyon would like the transfer to go through in order for the French club to appease their soaring wage bill, “Would it be better for us to see him leaving? Since we have an objective to reduce the wage bill, this transfer enters in our programme.”
Lloris, who is captain for both his club and country, was one of the stand out performers for France in what was a less than convincing Euro 2012 campaign. Manager of the French national side Didier Deschamps said he is still unsure whether Lloris will go to Tottenham: “I talked with him by phone. He has a choice to make between Lyon and Tottenham. He has until Friday to decide, we will see.”
Lloris could potentially be one of a number of players entering White Hart Lane before the transfer window closes tomorrow night. Tottenham have already splashed £15 million pounds on attacking Moussa Dembele from Fulham and now according to The Mirror, manager Andre Villas-Boas is still targeting several more players. These include midfielders Joao Moutinho from Porto and Alan Dzagoev from CSKA Moscow, as well as strikers Willian from Shakhtar Donetsk and Leandro Demiao from Brazilian side Internacional.
Tottenham are still waiting to hear from Rennes after submitting a bid for the talented youngster, Yann M’Vila on Monday. There are funds available to Villas-Boas following the £30 million pound departure of central midfielder Luka Modric to Real Madrid.
There could also be a number of players leaving White Hart Line of the over the next 36 hours, including left-winger Danny Rose who is expected to join Sunderland as a replacement for Kieran Richardson who signed for Fulham yesterday. Midfielder Rafael van der Vaart may also be leaving White Hart Lane in favour of a return to the club where he made his reputation as a top-class European playmaker, Hamburg.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Meanwhile, as one keeper may be arriving at White Hart Lane, Tottenham also confirmed this week that they have sold reserve goalkeeper David Button to Charlton Athletic for an undisclosed fee.
A survey by the BBC last month revealed that the price of the least expensive adult ticket in English football’s highest four divisions increased 11.7% since October 2011.
It was found that, unsurprisingly, Arsenal has the costliest season ticket at £1,955, with Tottenham not far behind at £1,845.
And it was obvious from Arsenal’s AGM last month that prices are angering the fans. Many of the questions centred on the impact high ticket prices were having on supporters, while a fan group at the meeting entrance put up a banner bearing the word ‘Greed’ as well as handing leaflets out. But, this is hardly surprising, considering fish and chips at the Emirates Stadium costs £13.90 and the cheapest price you can get a season ticket for at Arsenal is £985.
Looking at the prices of the costliest season tickets of the Premier League teams, half of the teams had theirs at over £800. However, that leads to the question, is it driving fans from stadiums?
Well, it is clear from the scenes at Arsenal’s AGM last month that fans are angry about increasing prices.
Paul Matz from AISA, the Arsenal Independent Supporters’ Association believes that the prices stop many fans of the Gunners from attending games. As well as this, he feels Arsenal should have a staged-payment scheme stating: “There are many Arsenal fans who are unable to attend Premier League and Champions League matches because of high prices and many others who have given up their season tickets, or struggle to pay the annual cost of £985 – £1,955 (and even more in Club Level) because of the lack of any staged-payment scheme.” In a staged-payment plan, people would pay in instalments.
It is also the case at other clubs that attending football has become more expensive. Steve Turner, an Ipswich fan stated to me on Twitter how: “My uncle used to say standing at the football was about the same cost as a mans (sic) haircut. Now about 2.5 X (sic) the price. I’ve never seen a tap for drinking water at a football stadium. You even have to buy water.”
However, numbers of general Premier League football attendance do not seem to have dramatically dropped despite concerns over price. A study that Pluri, a sports consultancy from Brazil, undertook of the countries with the highest football match attendances, England were second, ahead of countries like Spain, Italy, France and even Brazil. Figures also show that Arsenal is one of the most attended football clubs in Europe.
However, while official numbers have not massively changed for attendance, many are avoiding attending matches because of high prices.
It could also be argued that higher prices have changed the atmosphere at stadiums.
It seems apparent that the atmosphere at football stadiums is quieter than it used to be. Some even compare stadiums to a ‘library’.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
So one question is, is this because it is just certain people who can now attend the matches because of prices? Is it the case that those who can afford the tickets are not as likely to be as vocal?
It seems right now that match attendance numbers are not being too badly affected by price. However, with so many complaints about cost, surely clubs should rethink prices to help fans and stop any potential future decreases in attendance numbers?
Chris Kamara releases first ever shock treatment guide for fans
Stunned football fans witnessing a giant killing in the Capital One Cup will benefit from an exclusive video treatment guide from football pundit Chris Kamara to assist their recovery.
Crawley Town, MK Dons and Carlisle United are among the names looking to cause a major upset in Round 3 of Capital One Cup, as they host opposition from the Premier League.
Thanks to Chris Kamara’s turn as the “Shock Doctor”, the first ever video has been created to help treat football fans who suffer from symptoms of shock.
Filmed on location at Burton Albion FC, who pulled off surprise wins against higher opposition in the first two rounds of the competition, the video features the highly unqualified “Doctor” Kamara helping supporters with his unorthodox shock treatment techniques.
Chris Kamara, leading football personality turned Shock Therapist, said: “All fans dream of pulling off a major Cup upset, but nobody talks about the dangers attached to witnessing such a huge shock! My video guide is there to help supporters cope if their mate goes into shock after that last minute winner in the Capital One Cup.”
Michael Woodburn, Chief Marketing Officer for credit card company and Cup sponsors Capital One, said: “The League Cup has a rich history of throwing up some major shocks and surprises, such as York City’s famous win against Manchester United at Old Trafford. We wanted to ensure all fans are prepared for the effects of a shock in this year’s Capital One Cup with this light hearted video guide.”
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Football fans can view the “Shock Doctor” Chris Kamara’s video guide below or by visiting www.facebook.com/capitaloneuk.
Following Adam Johnson’s miserable start at Sunderland we look at ten players who have fallen well short of expectations.
Johnson arrived on Wearside as the marquee signing, that had fans believing in the possibility of a top eight finish. Along with the failings of other important, creative players in the North East, the England international now seems somewhat of a let down. Still undecided on whether his performance against Aston Villa was worthy of a three or four out of ten, the main thing I’ve been musing, this week, is was the 25-year-old ever that good? After all, maybe a few impressive goals and cameos may well have masked his short-comings at the Etihad Stadium.
The rest of the list sees players who either have a confidence which their ability belies. Or footballers who failed to capitalise on early promise to the point where their good form is the anomaly. From great youngsters who became average adults, to players who were never that good, this list is devoted to those who just never lived up to the hype.
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is set to step up his pursuit for Everton full-back Leighton Baines after conceding defeat in the chase for Ashley Cole, report the Daily Mail.
The Chelsea defender is out of contract at the end of the season which had tempted Fergie, but it appears that Paris Saint-Germain are willing to spend big to tempt him to France this winter.
This has caused the Scot to look elsewhere in search of a replacement for the out-of-form Patrice Evra.
Baines is thought to be the Red Devils’ next target, with the club’s hierarchy said to be impressed by the form he has shown with Everton during the last few seasons.
It’s reported that the Old Trafford-based outfit were monitoring the England international’s situation during the summer, but signed Alexander Buttner instead.
The Toffees value their man at £15m, a figure Fergie initially baulked at, but negotiations could open once more ahead of the winter transfer window.
David Moyes is far from keen to lose one of his big names, however a solid financial return may tempt him to let the 27-year-old go.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Baines arrived at Goodison Park from Wigan in 2007 for a reported £6m fee.
He has cemented a spot in the club’s starting XI thanks to his solid defensive attributes and wonderful set-piece ability.
Norwich will be out to continue their unbeaten streak when they host Sunderland in the Premier League on Sunday.
Norwich were winless through the first seven games of the season, but have turned that form around with a seven-match unbeaten run to move up to 13th place on the table. Their last two results have shown all the qualities of a fighting side with a 90th-minute equaliser against Everton followed by another come-from-behind draw against Southampton.
Their form at Carrow Road has been very impressive too with three victories – including 1-0 triumphs over Manchester United and Arsenal – and just one defeat from their five home matches this season. But with just 11 goals from 14 games, Norwich lack a serious attacking threat and will have to make their most of their limited opportunities if they are to get a result in this clash.
While they have struggled in the front third, their defence has been relatively solid, even without first-choice goalkeeper John Ruddy, who is facing three months out with a thigh injury. Back-up Mark Bunn performed admirably against Southampton with a string of quality saves helping the Canaries hold on for a point.
Sunderland picked up a point last start against bottom-placed QPR, but will see it as a missed opportunity to gain a valuable victory.
The Black Cats have just one win from their past eight matches and have been sucked back into the relegation dogfight, sitting just one point clear of 18th-placed Southampton.
Martin O’Neill’s Sunderland have also struggled in front of goal with just 12 goals so far this campaign, although their last match on the road was an impressive 3-1 victory at Fulham. Steven Fletcher is enjoying a stellar season with six goals to his name already, but the Scottish striker has lacked support with Louis Saha and Frazier Campbell both yet to find the back of the net.
Sunderland have won three of the past four clashes between the two sides and will be hoping for another positive result to steer clear of the bottom three.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Inter Milan midfielder Wesley Sneijder’s agent has rubbished speculation of a January move to Tottenham.
The Dutch international has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months, with Spurs becoming the latest club to be rumoured as his destination.
Due to a contract dispute, the 28-year-old has not played for the San Siro side since September and appears highly likely to move on sooner rather than later.
Despite rumours of an imminent switch to White Hart Lane, his representatives have played down the speculation:
“There is nothing, absolutely nothing true about that.” He is quoted by Sky Sports via Algemeen Dagblad.
Manchester United were linked with the playmaker over the summer, but a move failed to materialise.
Big-spending French club Paris Saint-Germain are thought to be interested, although a move to the Parc de Princes may not appeal to Sneijder, who would be battling with many talented players to break into the first-team.
The Holland international began his professional career with Ajax, after graduating from the Amsterdam club’s legendary youth set-up.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
After five years, Real Madrid swooped to take the midfielder to Spain in a £20m deal.
He struggled to command a regular starting berth at the Bernabeu before moving to Inter in 2009.
Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew remains keen to manage England, but only after he has served his eight year contract on Tyneside.
The 51-year-old guided Newcastle to fifth in the Premier League in his first full-season, earning the unprecedented deal that runs until 2020.
Pardew told The Independent of his long term goal, “I do have ambitions internationally – I would like to do that at some point.
“Hopefully I will see this contract out and see what I’m doing later on. I have always felt that a person can be a success as England manager. I won’t change my opinion on that, but I don’t think it’s easy.
“Roy Hodgson probably has a tough spell as England manager because our pool of players is not as great as it used to be.”
The ex-Southampton boss also went on to talk about his much publicised new deal at the Sports Direct Arena.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
“Both of us looked at the contract [him and Magpies owner Mike Ashley], and felt it lacked a bit of security. So this contract is more secure for Mike in terms of keeping me at the football club.
“The eight years came from Mike. I never got to the point of talking about how long I wanted the contract for. He spoke to me about eight years and I thought: OK.”