Bleacher Report - Articles by Andy Morris

Manchester United vs. Manchester City: The Prediction

Andy Morris — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 07:39:41 -0400

Last week, I was right in my assertion that City would beat the arrogant Arsenal, although the manner in which City put them to the sword was unexpected.

This week offers a much sterner challenge for the unbeaten Blues in the club geographically nearest to Manchester, United.

It is a shame that Manchester City is a bit understrength at the moment. Although, the quality gap between the two clubs has been closed; the difference won't really be as clear as it could have been before.

So, can United overcome the weakened City side with the 100 percent record?

I think they can, but only if Rooney is on form.

If Rooney has a poor day (in the manner so often that Ronaldo did in Derby games) then United may well struggle to score.

But I have a sneaking suspicion that United will lose a player to a red card, and that Rooney may well be the man for the early bath.

So I am going to give two predictions: Firstly, with the full 90 minutes with Rooney on the field, United will win.

Secondly, with a below par and red-carded Rooney, City will win.

It's going to be a very interesting game in any case.

Manchester City Vs. Arsenal: A Prediction

Andy Morris — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:50:42 -0400

For some time now, pundits have talked about Manchester City needing at least another season to be considered a team.

The ones who know argue that, as talented as the players City now has, they need time to gel, to become a unit.

I agree—to a point.

The season has started very well, with three league wins, a cup win, and a very impressive friendly win against Barcelona. All with no goals against.

It seems like the talented individuals are doing quite well already; imagine then what they will be like next season, or even in the second half of this season.

So tomorrow City faces its sternest test, Arsenal.

Prediction: City wins 2-0, with Adebayor and Ireland the scorers.

Throw all of the insults at me now, because I think come Saturday evening, I may well be looking rather smug.

Who Is in Charge: Fifa, UEFA , The FA or the Premier League?

Andy Morris — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:13:43 -0400

Now it may seem like a very simple question, but who runs football?

Over the last several weeks we have heard what Platini thinks about debt for example, and that Roman Abramovich agrees with him, we seen a footballer cheat, be defended by his manager, pilloried by the press and then punished by UEFA and then we've seen FIFA punish Chelsea for the way it has conducted a transfer.

Some time ago, in 2005 Chelsea were fined for 'tapping up' Ashley Cole.

Last year the world were up in arms when it was suggested that English Premier League games could be played in other countries.

So who does a club answer to?

It seems that the final place for an appeal is the Court of Arbitration for Sport but from what I understand all parties have to agree to CAS becoming involved.

The power struggle in football is of course as old as the sport itself.

The UK has a perfect example of the diversity of jurisdiction and the complications that have arisen from many voices and levels of control.

In 2012 the host nation for the Olympics will not have a truly representative football team in place.

Even though the IOC and FIFA have agreed that a UK football team would not impact on the status of the 'home nations' football associations the players from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have effectively been banned from participating.

So the SFA, WFA and NIFA simply dont trust UEFA or FIFA to honour a publicly stated assertion that they will continue as independent organisations with full voting rights.

Wow, national associations don't trust FIFA and UEFA—The words of Blatter and Platini cannot be trusted.

England has an even more complex set of relationships in play.

When Chelsea were fined £300,000 for 'taping up' Ashley Cole they were fined by the Premier League not the English FA. Why?, because they do not accept the primacy of the FA in England.

Yet the Premier League needs the English FA to legitimise its existence; the promotion and relegation of English football, the glory of the FA Cup and the involvements of EPL teams in the 'League Cup' all rely on nod and wink agreements.

And UEFA and FIFA turn a blind eye to all of this as to get involved could mean that they themselves are neutered in any rebellion.

Lets take another look at Chelsea's recent ban on buying (but not selling) players for two tranfer windows.

If Chelsea and Manchester United simply ignored the ruling and were backed by Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Barcelona and all the other top European clubs what would happen?

Well they would be banned from UEFA sanctioned competitions, but they could happily continue in their own leagues.

FIFA could threaten to stop players from representing their countries, but that could punish the innocent, could it not?—Imagine a player contracted to Arsenal being told he can not play in European or International competition because his club has bought a player from another club.

I can almost hear the lawyers chuckling in expectation.

And yet when the EPL wants to use technology to decide whether a ball has crossed the line the defer to FIFA in those decisions.

So who does run football?

We may face a reshuffle some time soon as Real Madrid, Manchester United and Liverpool may be kicked out of the Champions League over debt, Chelsea over player acquisitions and many other clubs will surely be wondering if the whims of Platini and Blatter will cause them grief.

Of course without the big names then competitions are devalued, that's why the English League Cup still needs the Premier League teams in it and why Platini's UEFA allows it all to continue.

And of course all of this depends on the money that supporters are prepared to pay and advertisers are willing to stump up for the reflected glory of the top teams and players.

That's who pays for the shiny offices and mega salaries.

So who runs football?

I really don't know any more.

David Moyes, Cashed Up and in the Spotlight

Andy Morris — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:19:47 -0400

Over the last few weeks, David Moyes has had a lot to say about how transfers happen. In this writer's opinion, he has made himself look rather silly.

His view of how the world of football works is simplistic and out of date, and because he was found wanting, he is blaming Manchester City for everything, including global warming, the world banking crisis, and the premature death of Buddy Holly.

But the focus is about to change.

He has now admitted that his team needs four players (so not just a replacement of Lescott) and he has a week or so to get them in.

He has plenty of cash to spend, consisting of the £24m from the Lescott sale and the £8.86 of his annual transfer budget, so what does he do?

Remember that he has to call a manager and say hello, and ask if a player is available. If not, move on.

If a player is available, he makes his offer, and if that is refused, he moves on.

Remember that playing by Moyes; it is not acceptable to return with a second bid as Manchester City did.

If a team states clearly that a player is not for sale, then the matter is closed.

But Everton needs four players, and they need them quickly, so it is likely that they will have to help the deals go through by going back with larger offers to help convince the selling club to part with the player.

Of course, that's just what Manchester City did, and they were accused of being really, really nasty and unfair.

So, Mr. Moyes, let's see if you can conduct yourself in the manner you espouse for others, and remember there are no half measures.

You have to accept "no" as the final answer and you have to speak directly to the manager and no one else.

And, of course, now that people know you have money, they will up their prices so you can't complain about being fleeced, as City have been by Everton.

Manchester City's Lake: Talent and Ability Lost To Fate

Andy Morris — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:21:38 -0400

For those of you who don't know, the picture above is of Paul Lake. He is a born and bred Mancunian who lived the dream in his early years.

He was picked up by Manchester City, the team he supported at an early age (having been spotted at the age of 10). Paul even turned down the mighty Manchester United when invited for a trial, good lad you see.

Paul's progress continued and he was part of Manchester City's FA Youth cup winning team of 1986. I was there to see it as well.

His future was very, very bright with many tipping him as a future England star. Strong, athletic and supremely composed he was talked of as the new Booby Moore and he simply was that good.

A home grown talent playing for the club he supported as a lad, it was genuinely a dream scenario.

In today's wacky world of transfer fees, the £30m Manchester United paid Rio Ferdinand would likely fall short of Lakes' value.

But Paul wasn't going to fulfil that immense potential, he wouldn't even get close.

A series of operations on a damaged knee over the years meant that he effectively did not play beyond 1990. His career ended at the age of 22.

As a City fan I can tell you that he was the great hope for the team, and his loss left many wondering if City could sustain any sort of development.

It may sound silly, but the loss of Lake hit the club very hard and it could be argued that his injury began the clubs demise.

Of course City had seen something similar before.

The club's most celebrated player, Colin Bell, was in his prime when his own knee injury struck him down, shortening his career by as much as eight years.

Many argue that Bell's legendary fitness and stamina meant he could have played to almost any age. His retirement at 29 meant City did not see the very best of Bell.

At least Colin Bell achieved at the highest levels; winning trophies, and representing his country 48 times.

Paul Lake can only think of what might have been. City fans know that with a fit Paul Lake, almost anything could have happened.

Perhaps I am overstating what could have happened but that's how it still feels.

David Moyes: People Who Live in Glass Houses Should Not Throw Stones

Andy Morris — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:13:57 -0400

As a Manchester City fan I am very well used to being called names, abused and generally thought of as a laughing stock because of my footballing affiliation.

Water, duck, back.

It's been going on for as long as I can remember, in effect all of my football supporting life. It used to sting but lost it's impact many years ago.

That's the thing about being a City fan—if you were one, it is because of so many things not related to football success.

Of course we all know that the purity of any new City fans will be doubted from now on because City stand a very good chance of actually wining something sometime soon.

So when City are talked of as a cheap, classless club it shouldn't hurt. But it does.

The reason it hurts is because I really don't think it is true.

David Moyes has gone off the deep end over the Joleon Lescott transfer, suggesting that the player has had his head turned.

He considers the public bidding that City have entered into, is tantamount to tapping up!

Yet, it is acceptable for Everton to go public with the City bids on their own website?

It is very likely that Everton's inability to buy, or even to take a seat at the top table of transfers was going to demotivate their fan base and perhaps even their squad.

So they made a very public statement about not selling one of their better players, no matter how much they were offered.

Now that's a cheap trick isn't it?

When the bids, speculation, and discontent continued, Moyes called foul.

Further, he has even pulled the good name of Manchester City through the mud.

He has attacked Mark Hughes for not having called him up—in order, we presume, to be told to sod off.

Mark Hughes made the simple point that he doesn't do that with any transfer, and he suggested that no serious club does business that way.

We know that Chelsea and Manchester United can't talk about this, as they have history of being less than squeaky clean in transfer dealings, but what of Everton?

Although not the most prolific in terms of transfers, with a club record of a respectable but relatively low of £15m, Everton should be in the clear.

The one time they have bought big in Fellaini, they managed to beat Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Aston Villa and Spurs.

You don't beat those teams to a player by doing things by the book. No way, no how.

They turned the player with oodles of cash, making it known that they were after him.

Exactly the same tactics that City have been accused of by Moyes. Isn't that strange?

So how do David Moyes and Everton get themselves out of this mess and patch up relations with the only club likely to have a surfeit of players and a willingness to loan or sell them, certainly in the price bracket that Everton can afford?

It would be nice to think that an apology or two will be offered but is Moyes man enough?

Or will the people at the top at Everton make that happen at the same time as selling Lescott?

The next move is for Everton to make and I suggest that they look at themselves before they throw around allegations which are clearly false.

In short, its time for David Moyes and Everton to be professional.

How Do You Solve a Problem Like David Moyes?

Andy Morris — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 11:05:16 -0400

If I were an Everton supporter right now, I would be worried.

Not as you may assume because of the lack of money, the stagnated squad, the injuries, the crappy old stadium or the threat of Lescott moving on and further weakening a threadbare first team, no the treason i would be worried is David Moyes.

There seems to be a rather unhealthy attitude in charge of the first team, he is from the way he talks Mr Everton.

The chairman is of course not important in all of this, because according to Moyes it is HE who decides everything concerning players, end of story.

If Manchester City were to offer £30m for Lescott he would say no, and that's that—finito.

Whether Kenwright (or should that be Kenwrong?) could do with that money to ease the financial strain on the club is no concern, 'cos David says no.

Now, perhaps i have over played how Moyes sees himself, and perhaps Moyes is unaware of the shenanigans going on behind his back. Perhaps Bill Kenwright gives his manager the occasional pat on the head then carries on with running the club in the impeccable (if financially constrained) way that he has done.

But then perhaps it is all about Moyes.

The worry for the Everton fans though is why a manager would be so definitive in his statements about a player as he has been about Lescott.

A good negotiator allows wiggle room, somewhere to go in case he has to alter his plans. Moyes has made it clear that Lescott stays and that he has told everyone that. It is his decision.

Being so categoric makes the Chairman and the board look like chumps, nothing more than figureheads nailed to the good ship Moyes.

How about that for a kick in the egos?

Two thing will happen now, one Lescott stays and plays badly, forcing a move at a reduced price with Moyes and Everton crying about what City have done.

Or Lescott goes and Moyes and Kenwright find a way round the issue of who makes what decision.

It seems that David Moyes need to learn to say less, or at least say things that are less definitive.

Whatever happens the footballing world sees Everton differently now, and I don't think they are viewed in a better light.

It's sad to say but I think Everton have, over the last few days turned themselves into a small club and they have Moyes to thank for it.

Is David Moyes Looking for a Way out by Using Joleon Lescott As the Last Straw?

Andy Morris — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 19:43:06 -0400

David Moyes is an exceptional manager.

He is thoughtful, measured, and a gentleman.

But I think that he is now looking for a way out of Goodison.

His talents are far greater than the resources at his disposal, and even with the loyal Bill Kenwright he must surely now see that if he wants success he will have to move on.

Everton have a fragile squad which lacks depth, proven by the need to take Jo back on loan from Manchester City.

Surely he has other players in mind for the Moyes dream 11?

But at Goodison his dream team will never happen, period.

Manchester City's chase of Joleon Lescott proves that Everton are likely to struggle as one of their star players is now an unhappy player.

The fact that City, who finished 13 points behind and five places adrift of Everton, are now considered the better option for Lescott means that in the future the capture of players is going to be next to impossible.

A manager of Moyes' talent can only shop in the bargain basement for so long, and I think he will use the almost inevitable Lescott move as a catalyst for his own swift departure.

Don't be surprised if he sees himself over at Old Trafford in the coming seasons, perhaps even sooner.

Lescott, Upson And Distin: Manchester City Have Choices

Andy Morris — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:47:49 -0400

Manchester City's achilles heel will be their defence: So say the majority of pundits and commentators when previewing the coming Premier League season.

If you look at the current players on the payroll at the City of Manchester Stadium you can see why they say that.

Kolo Toure is of course a quality addition but there is more to City's current options than many would think.

It's about a stable partnership which last season never happened.

If Micah Richards removes his head from his posterior and concentrates on football rather than partying and blinging it up then he may well become the player we all hope he can be. A move to full back will likely help with that as well.

The prospect of a fully fit Nedum Onuoha is a very pleasing one. For several years I have been telling the world that if they were impressed by Richards just wait for Nedum, hopefully I will get to say "I told you so" this coming season.

Richard Dunne is a weakness, and maybe the weakest link, with his best years behind him. And considering that he was error, own goal AND red card prone (all in one match is a distinct possibility) it is highly likely that he will be back-up at best.

Ben-Haim is my least favourite, dropped-bollock signing of recent years. My father has a phrase for players like him a "getting away with it" chancer—'nuff said.

City have real options in the full back positions with Bridge, Zabaleta and Garrido with more young players in reserve. These players recently blooded in pre-season offer hope for significant in-house improvements.

With more experience, the likes of Logan, Mee, McGivern and Macdonald and Vidal could well save the club milions, but for now there's a hole to be filled.

I suspect that City will sign two more Centre Halves, Lescott being number one pick with Upson also signing on for the new season.

If Distin were to return to City it would likely be as a back-up option to the Toure/Lescott partnership, but he may well enjoy the money.

So with a little more investment (if you can think of £30-£40m as a 'little more'), then the squad will be ready for a real push this season.

There are strong indications that Lescott is likely to force a move as he is afraid that both he and Everton are stagnating.

Upson is refusing to sign a new contract at West Ham, hoping for the call from City.

If both players do turn up, then in the coming years City could well have the majority of the England first team on the payroll.

Quite a thought when all we have heard so far is of the expensive African and South American buys.

Joe Hart Called Into England Squad

Andy Morris — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:47:21 -0400

Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has been called into the England squad after an injury forced Ben Foster to withdraw.

An unusual aspect to this call up means that for the first time in many, many years Manchester City have as many players in the England squad as neighbours United.

More to follow...

So You Know About Football Do You?

Andy Morris — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:02:07 -0400

As we all know Sir Alex Ferguson is the font of all knowledge and wisdom when it comes to footballing matters, indeed he is never wrong. So here's a few questions for all the nerds out there to try their hands at. These five questions are ones that made me go ooohhhhhh, of course when I heard them so hopefully it will get your brains working a little. There are of course no prizes on offer other than a hearty slap on the back if you get 'em all right (without wiki-google-cheating). I have deliberately NOT asked questions related to the worlds greatest club, Manchester City. If you would like more questions that perhaps even Fergie would struggle with then all you need do is ask.

Begin Slideshow

Manchester City Gain Their First Prize: Respect

Andy Morris — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 06:07:03 -0400

A fellow BR contributor has informed me that the banner at Old Trafford "celebrating" the 33-year lack of trophies for City has been taken down.

This could simply be because it is being cleaned or updated, ready for the 34th year.

It could also be because after Alex Ferguson's rant at City's "petty" poster campaign it seemed disingenuous to leave it in place, after all you can't make SAF look silly can you?

The suggestion is that taking it down now will save the embarrassment of taking it down when City do win something, interesting thought that.

Ferguson's rant alone also shows that the challenge from across town is more serious this year than for many, many years.

Now I am not here to say that City are going to win the League, but they do pose more of a threat to all teams.

Arsene Wenger is less prone to ranting at opponents but he has found City worthy of comment, and in his way has made it clear that City are in the minds of other managers.

Snr Benitez has been mulling things over and has said that 'it will be interesting to see what happens."

Ancelloti is celebrating the fact that John Terry did't move to City—and of course it was never going to happen was it Carlo?

It all seems to be add up to City having gained the respect of other clubs in the EPL, not something that has been acheived for many years.

In previous posts here on Bleacher I was told that the top four don't fear City (although I disagree) and that City are not going to break up the top four, certainly not this year (again I have my doubts about that).

The two men in the picture are Khaldoon al Mubarrak, chairman, and Garry Cook, chief executive of Man City. They have stated that a top six finish would be considered progression.

I think that the way City are thought of is proof positive that City are now contenders.

But a trophy would definitely be nice as well.

Sir Alex Needs To Learn a Lot From Sir Bobby's Example

Andy Morris — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 08:42:13 -0400

I have deliberately waited a few days to write this as I wanted to really consider my words, and make a point that could be thought of as petty or deliberately hurtful. That is not my intention.

I, like most people who follow football had a soft spot for Sir Bobby Robson and likewise have a not-so-soft spot for Sir Alex Ferguson.

When I heard the news that Sir Bobby had passed away I was deeply saddened, it felt personal...almost as if a family member had died.

When Sir Alex dies, I don't expect a similar feeling of loss.

When Sir Alex dies, I will mourn the death of the greatest manager ever, possibly there will ever be. But I won't feel the same personal connection.

As I have read through the obit's for Sir Bobby, one thing that became crystal clear is the complete and utter lack of anything negative about the man as player, manager or person.

The way he dealt with the infamous Maradona 'Hand of God' was in the manner of a gentleman, he simply referred to it as the 'hand of a rascal'.

When you consider that such a moment of cheating struck at the heart of Sir Bobby's values and ethics, he showed what a man of character and quality he was.

Imagine now what the obits for Sir Alex will look like.

They will talk about the brilliant work he has done, the undeniably huge impact he has had turning Manchester United into England's most successful club team.

But there will also be a stripe of contentiousness running though his life.

He has upset many and been upset by many people.

He refuses to talk to the BBC, something which would mean that any other manager would be censured by the Premier League because of a programme that included commentary on his son's activities.

How many people have been robbed of hearing what he has to say because they don't have access to Sky TV?

As long as Sir Alex gets his way, does he care?

He is apparently a master of 'mind games,' but that isn't true, he is simply arrogant enough to think that what he says is law. He feels he is correct and that the world needs to listen to Sir Alex.

Sir Alex is an egotist, he has little or no humility, and that is where he should learn from Sir Bobby.

When a man's life is weighed and measured, it is better to have been loved that feared, it is better to have spoken quietly and your words be remembered than shouted and ignored.

Sir Alex has won more trophies than any other manager in the history of English football, but he has stuck at United too long...he never tried his hand outside of the UK.

Sir Bobby is remembered as a great manager in many parts of the world.

But he is also loved in every part of the world in which he has worked.

It is for that reason that of the two managers, Sir Alex is likely just the better, but as men Sir Bobby is streets ahead of Sir Alex.

City Raid Arsenal Again To Sign Toure for £15m

Andy Morris — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:31:42 -0400

Manchester City are continuing their pursuit of experienced performers for their intended assault on the Premier League this season.

Over the last two transfer windows Mark Hughes has been particularly determined not to create a team of 'galacticos', but the inevitable pressure on him to deliver as soon as possible has brought forward his squad developments by at least six months.

City are therefore willing to pay a premium to get quality, proven Premier League players to position themselves as a real force.

City have been looking to sign Toure since January and it seems a bid of £15m has convinced Arsenal and Toure to make the move happen.

The transfer is likely to add pressure to Wenger and relieve some from Hughes who can almost boast of squad ready to challenge most others teams.

Questions will no doubt be asked of Wenger who is apparently comfortable weakening his own squad whilst strengthening that of their likely challengers for a Champions League spot.

Manchester City for the Top Four: Here's the Proof

Andy Morris — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:28:31 -0400

The simplest way of describing the challenge that faces Manchester City in the coming season is in the 22 point gap between the 10th place finish and the desired fourth place target.

Twenty-two points are, of course, seven victories and a draw more than was achieved, but can it be done?

Here is a realistic run down of the teams City will have to beat. Last years points total was 50.

For simplicity's sake I have swapped each relegated team out against a promoted team.

Oh, and by the way, this is a prediction based on my opinion so although it's not fact, you can always disagree.

Team

Manchester United 4

Liverpool 3

Chelsea 3

Arsenal 3

Everton 4

Aston Villa 4

Fulham 4

Tottenham H. 4

West Ham U. 4

Wigan A. 6

Stoke C. 6

Bolton W. 6

Portsmouth 4

Blackburn R. 4

Sunderland 6

Hull City 6

Burnley (Newcastle) 6

Wolves (Middlesbrough) 6

Birmingham (WBA) 6

Total 89 points

The simple truth is City now have the capacity to beat teams that they lost to last season and improve from a draw to a victory quite often.

If any of the results I have suggested are beyond the new City squad there is also a helluva lot of wiggle room in order to achieve the desired points.

Real Madrid vs. Manchester City: the Billion Dollar Race

Andy Morris — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:09:38 -0400

There is a race on.

The race to build the world's greatest squad, offering the hope of European dominance for a many years.

Why is it so important to win this race when it seems to be re-run every season? Well, there may not be the same freedom to buy in the coming seasons as UEFA and FIFA are looking at how they could control the debt-based spending, particularly of the top European teams—that could mean that the team with the best incumbent squad holds all the aces for many years.

So which teams are in the running to gain that priceless advantage and who is likely to win the race?

Real Madrid—Galacticos II—the new batch is a project already in the making but with debts already standing at about $1/2 billion, it's going to be interesting to see how far Calderon will be allowed to extend the clubs borrowings.

The previous Galacticos era was covered by a strange financial retrenchment involving the sale of the training ground and a few raised eyebrows. That option is no longer available, and with no other family silver to hock are we seeing the last hurrah of Madrid?

Manchester United—already massively in debt, United are already showing signs of limiting their spending. The proceeds from the Ronaldo sale and the lack of a Tevez deal perhaps mean that they are already taking themselves out of the running?

Arsenal—Prudence is the watchword at the most successful of the London clubs, add that to the faltering re-development of the old Highbury site, and long term investment is off the table. Very unlikely to even try to compete.

Barcelona—Unique in many ways, not driven by profits or buoyed by debts in any way like Real Madrid, Barca also seem reluctant to get involved in the spending frenzy. As laudable as the Barca model is, it may leave them lagging in the coming several years.

Liverpool—Debt, bad management, and bickering owners is likely to mean implosion rather than the building of an expensive squad. Very much the outsiders of the English contingent.

Bayern Munich—As with all German clubs, they have a different view of spending and team development. A membership-owned club with a strong revenue base, they do, however, lack punch in financial terms. Last year's €2.1m profit will not go very far in the coming race.

Chelsea—A wealthy owner with a history of spending hides the fact that the glory days of squad building are now in the past. Several managers have NOT been backed by the Rubles of Abramovich. Likely they peaked too early in spending terms and are very much NOT ready to take on...

Manchester City—The world's wealthiest club by any measure, they have every chance of capturing the best players in the next few transfer windows. The penny is likely to be dropping in the minds of the best players. There only seems to be two places offering to pay now, Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Starting way behind the others on the list, it appears to be set-up for a massive spending spree, which may well mean the best squad in 2011 is found in the blue hald of Manchester.

It is interesting to note that the transfer activity for this summer is pretty low key.

If you take out Madrid and City, it has been almost deathly quiet.

Even clubs such as Spurs are not making any moves; perhaps they are all waiting for City and Madrid to finish spending.

Perhaps City simply won't.

When Others Say You're Not a Threat: Then You're a Threat

Andy Morris — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 22:05:55 -0400

I recently wrote an article that made the simple point that Manchester City were causing other managers to show a little fear.

I made no outlandish statements about City winning the title, or even suggesting that the coming season will draw an end to the years without silverware for the Blues.

I made an observation that in buying from the other top EPL teams, Manchester City were doubling the impact of their recent spending.

In effect, City are bolstering their own squad whilst weakening the other teams.

It didn't go down too well with some other BR members.

I still feel that I am right and that other clubs are now seriously worried about:

a) City becoming a force in EPL and European football.

b) What will happen to the top 4's business model fully dependant on Champions League monies.

c) The cost of refreshing aging squads now City are in play.

It has been interesting to read a few comments made by Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, and Rafa Benitez.

In essence, they are suggesting that, amongst other things, City have distorted the value of players (AF has just said that Tevez isn't worth the £25m City played), won't know what to do with a bloated squad, can't buy success and will not threaten next year.

They are conceding that City 'may' be a force in a couple of seasons.

All of this leads me to conclude that these three managers are really, really worried.

The claim that City are distorting the market doesn't really mean anything, after all United have broken transfer records many more times than City. And of course the others are not blameless in that regard.

Arsene Wenger cannot complain, as he has just taken £25m from City.

The suggestion that Mark Hughes will struggle with a bloated, ego-heavy squad is a serious one, but one with all managers have to deal with.

Is it not a little arrogant to suggest that Hughes is out of his depth?

Of course it is likely that the famous mind games are simply starting early this year, designed to throw doubt into the heart of the new City.

According to what I have read City wont be able to 'buy the title' but that is plainly nonsense. It has been tried before but with varying degrees of success.

Blackburn did, Leeds didn't, Chelsea have, and Liverpool haven't.

One thing we can guarantee however is that the more money you throw at a squad, the greater the chance of success becomes. With unlimited money, well, the opportunities to succeed cannot be better.

It's more than the money, of course, it's also the manager, and I feel that City are very likely to have the right man.

I have been a Hughes doubter, but less so now.

From what I have heard recently the other managers also feel that City have all the elements for success.

Whether it happens this season, only time will tell. What is true is that the other teams are now looking for plan B.

Just in case.

World Football: Now We Can See the Fear in the Top Four's Eyes

Andy Morris — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 13:27:37 -0400

On the day that Carlos Tevez finally signed for Manchester City, it is worth noting what else City are doing to mix things up in the Premier League.

Firstly, there is the possibility, rated at 50/50 of John Terry, of moving North.

Secondly, the suggestion that a deal for Adebayor is all but complete.

Lastly, there are unconfirmed reports that City are interested in Xabi Alonso.

As welcome as all of these signings are for City, making them a force in terms of both English and European football, they are also a statement to each of the top-four teams that things have changed.

Making each of the top four very clearly aware that they are no longer able to assume primacy in terms of transfers in Europe will surely come as a shock in both the boardroom and on the terraces.

Sir Alex Ferguson is clearly unhappy with Tevez and his decision to move to City. He has also apparently reigned in his own transfer dealings until the market has settled down. Perhaps that could mean for several windows?

Chelsea are beginning to doubt whether John Terry will start the season in dark blue, with the possibility of him playing in Sky Blue no longer as crazy as it once was only last week.

And now Liverpool are likely to feel the pressure of Manchester City's massive resources as the eye is being run over Xabi Alonso.

For City to be in the reckoning for Eto'o or Kaka was always likely to make the headlines, but the more powerful story will come from the weakening of the top four's squads (with no quality additions likely) and the significant strengthening of City's on-field options.

Although the dust is yet to settle with more deals no doubt to be struck, what Old Trafford, Emirates, Anfield and Stamford Bridge residents are feeling is likely to be discomfort, concern, or perhaps even fear for the coming season.

Manchester City: Sparking Fear in the Top Four?

Andy Morris — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 13:27:30 -0400

On the day that Carlos Tevez finally signed for Manchester City, it is worthwhile noting what else City is doing to mix things up in the Premier League.

Firstly, there is the possibility (rated at 50/50) of John Terry moving North.

Secondly, the suggestion that a deal for Adebayor is all but complete.

Lastly, there are unconfirmed reports that City is interested in Xabi Alonso.

As welcome as all of these signings are for City, which would make them a force in terms of both English and European football, there are also statements to each of the top four teams that things have changed.

Making each of the top four clearly aware that they are no longer able to assume primacy in terms of transfers in Europe will surely come as a shock in both the boardroom and on the terraces.

Sir Alex Ferguson is clearly unhappy with Tevez and his decision to move to City. He has also apparently reigned in his own transfer dealings until the market has settled down.

Perhaps that could mean for several windows?

Chelsea is beginning to doubt whether John Terry will start the season in dark blue, with the possibility of him playing in Sky Blue no longer as crazy as it was only last week.

And now Liverpool is likely to feel the pressure of Manchester City's massive resources, as the eye is being run over Xabi Alonso.

For City to be in the reckoning for Eto'o or Kaka was always likely to make the headlines, but the more powerful story will come from the weakening of the top fours' squads (with no quality additions likely) and the significant strengthening of City's on-field options.

Although the dust is yet to settle, with more deals no doubt to be struck, what Old Trafford, Emirates, Anfield and Stamford Bridge residents are feeling is likely to be one of discomfort, concern or perhaps even fear for the coming season.

Lucio to Join Manchester City: Reports

Andy Morris — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:06:38 -0400

A spate of reports are suggesting that Lucio, the Brazilian defender, is set to join Manchester City for a fee in the region of £7m.

Further, it has been reported that negotiations have been completed and a contact is in place, all that is needed is the player's signature, something that by all accounts is a formality.

City have recently released Glauber Berti, a fellow Brazilian, but of course retain the services of Robinho, Elano, as well as the loaned-out Jo.

It is the first sign of the improvements that Mark Hughes is making in the defence at the club.

More to follow...

Real Deal Manchester City to Show Itself After A Slow Start, Some Doubts

Andy Morris — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 17:48:54 -0400

It has been a difficult week for Manchester City fans. It was a quiet one and yet we have been promised so, so much.

There has been a false dawn feel about it all.

City were to be clinical in the transfer market; quick, clean and unforgiving. After Kaka they had learned what was needed.

Well it hasn't quite been like that but, patience has so far been a virtue for Mark Hughes and City, willing to play the long game and convince doubters of the stable intent of the owners.

Now it has been decided that the way to show the owners intent is to, well, spend lots of money.

The recent hiatus in City's, and many other clubs as well of course, transfer dealings has been caused by Real Madrid's use of the unplanned over-draft of £15 per day and £25 for each reminder letter by the way.

In order to limit the damage of any possible targets choosing Madrid instead of Manchester whilst they were in the spending habit, City pulled in their oars.

Now that Madrid have maxed out the plastic, City are going to hit the shops with an enviable debit card.

Here's a list for you:

Carlos Tevez
Samuel Eto'o
John Terry
Joleon Lescott
David Silva
Franck Ribery

Some of these names are more or less guaranteed to be in place for the first game against Blackburn, and some in the mid to late stages of negotiation but by all accounts the owners are no longer willing to take no for an answer.

Samuel Eto'o is likely to be on the payroll after no other major clubs even sniffed in his direction.

Joleon Lescott is at a club who need the money, and of course taking someone from £40k per week to £100k or more is likely to cause unrest at the team get together.

David Silva is a deal waiting to be done with his club in severe financial straits and selling Silva is the lesser of many evils.

The biggest deal of the lot would of course be Ribery with no-one expecting him to move but there are suggestions in Germany that they want everything sorted and for the focus to be on he new season, rather than Ribery.

What would it take to capture all of these players, a conservative estimate would be £180m and of course that doesn't cause many problems for City.

Tevez could well be the first of the EPL's very own dream team.

So screw you United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal because we can afford it.

I only meant to think that last line but thought I would leave it in, in honor of a fellow City BR'er who shall remain nameless.

An Arab Royal, a Jewish-American Businessman or a Russian Billionaire

Andy Morris — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 07:25:30 -0400

Before I get appreciative nods from the direction of the BNP or Neo-Nazi's across Europe, thinking this piece is racist or xenophobic, it isn't.

So for those who enjoy unbalanced and poorly thought out vitriolic attacks on other peoples, races, creeds or religions, please feel free to f*ck off, as this piece wont please you.

If you were to have a chat over a meal with a Chelsea fan, a Manchester City fan and a Manchester United fan, which one do you think would be happiest with the ownership of their club?

Perhaps that's the wrong way of putting it, as in Man U and Chelsea's cases, money has brought success, or at the very least helped continue it. In Man City's case, its still too early to tell.

The question should perhaps be: Which of the fans would be most comfortable with the ownership of their club?

All three clubs are now foreign owned, each has English involvement at the management level, so they are very similar in how they conduct business.

I know that Manchester United fans are still unhappy with the external debt piled onto the club as that has never been the case before the Glazers arrived. They do however seem happy enough with the success they have had whilst under American control.

Chelsea fans have talked about the club having lost its soul, with little or no effort having been made to include the community, at least in the early days of Abramovich's tenure.

The issue about what it costs to watch either United or Chelsea seem still to be a concern to the fans.

Chelsea in particular have become less of a community club under Russian owners, Manchester United already had a good community programme, which has at least continued to work in and around Trafford Borough.

What I have read recently about Manchester City shows that the owners there, as far removed from working class Mancunians as could be, have at least learned from previous "takeovers."

They talk about maintaining the club's proud traditions and history, of valuing the achievements of the past (unlike Peter Swales, a Mancunian businessman who ripped the heart out of city for the sake of his own ego).

Shiekh Mansour is investing in facilities to draw City into a common location,with office space, training facilities and the youth set-up all being cheek by jowl, creating a Manchester City 'family'.

A new and more extensive museum that can more fittingly celebrate the past is something very important to the basic values of Arab peoples, apparently.

Now I don't know enough to comment on Arab values, but so far I would say that they have not put a foot wrong when it comes to dealing with the club's fans.

It may be that they are by nature interested in maintaining all of the club's history and traditions, fusing them with money and ambition and a commitment to the highest levels of professionalism.

Or perhaps it could be that they know how to market themsleves and have learned from Glazer and Abramovich and are in the comfort in not being the first to "take over" a Premiership club?

I would conclude, however, that from the sound of things they are doing an outstanding job of taking the club on a journey that just could kill its very essence.

United fans will talk of history and of record breaking silverware, Chelsea will joke of the massive debts that they don't have, and City fans are likely to simply shrug their shoulders and smile.

The smile is one that says we'll see, but for now we're happy.

Possibly not the happiest of all, but certainly the most content.

The Painful Life of A Manchester City Fan

Andy Morris — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:01:05 -0400

There are now over 30,000 season ticket holders waiting for the new EPL season to start, and that number is estimated to rise to as high as 36,000.

That is a massive show of support for a club that has proved far too often how to F*ck things up.

For as long as many can remember City have struggled to make an impact, and have not even managed a cup final since 1981.

The changes in ownership, the many changes in management, and the massive numbers of players who have pulled on the sky blue shirt over the last 25 years are testament to the madness that has been Manchester City.

But still we dreamt.

Only 12 months ago City fans had the phrase "typical City" on their lips as Thaksin's ownership went pear shaped and the popular Sven Goran-Eriksson was jettisoned.

There were many doubts about the appointment of Mark Hughes and City fans were mumbling about "typical City".

City were becoming a joke in the eyes of other clubs' fans, with the diplomatic status of City's owner being the negative focus of almost ALL of the press reporting.

And then one day even the most hardened City fans and tabloid hacks were blown away by what could, in hindsight, be the single biggest football story ever.

No, not the the fact that the pies at the City of Manchester Stadium were to go up by 10p!

Manchester City were, at the stroke of a pen, the world's wealthiest football club.

There had been rumours of something massive the day before the news broke, I was called by my dad and told to get ready for a change in ownership the following day. It was even suggested that "some Arabs were interested."

It was massive, everything had changed.

City were now safe, as the details of the takeover were becoming clearer and the Robinho signing was made, the battle of Berbatov was ongoing.

Things were going mad, in a very different way from the decades before.

But, and there's always a but with City, the on-field plans are starting to hit the buffers.

As wonderful as the developments at the club have been, with new office blocks and ticketing facilities, the best kits in living memory as well as the great new website still things aren't going well in squad building.

So the pain of being a City fan is again coming along, in a completely different form, hope.

For years City fans expected little and typically got less than expected.

We knew where we were, well below the average.

The double relegation was just another City low, the double promotion was great but we knew in our hearts that it was a false dawn. Mediocrity was just around the corner.

More recently we managed to set a new record for home victories but failed to make an impact outside Manchester, typical!

But at least we knew where we were.

Then the awful feeling of hope and expectation landed and has been dashed on the rocks of Citydom.

Now of course the owners have unlimited finds and yet still cant get the players they want.

The economic downturn means nothing to the richest club in the world, normally that would mean a club could cherry pick the best players. But no, not City—destiny put a mental case in charge at Madrid at the same time so players flock to their colours and not City's.

So the plans for stadium extensions and new, world renowned training facilities are going ahead, but the team remains good, but NOT great.

Oh, the pain of being a City fan.

Mark Hughes remains in post when many would prefer Mourinho and perhaps Hughes is a stumbling block for big names, but City—the club who had 10 managers in as many seasons, are now standing by their man.

Typical City, we pick exactly the wrong moment to show loyalty and patience in a manager.

Oh the pain of being a City fan.

So the summer transfer window is open and City have spent £30m, hopes of massive names are turned to Santa Cruz and Barry (good but not great) and even now we feel somewhat downhearted.

We have been offered hope, clasped it close to our hearts and now it seems we are hurting more than when we were relegated, after all we fully expected that to happen.

Oh the typical bloody pain of being a City fan.

(P.S. Mr Halfpenny this article is meant to be a light hearted poke in the ribs of other City, we're keeping it in the family ;-) )

Manchester City's Dream Team: You Will Have To Wait One More Season

Andy Morris — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:19:47 -0400

It was always going to be tough to attract the world's best players to the City of Manchester Stadium for this coming EPL season.

The lack of Champions League football and the early stages 'the project' have apparently created a pregnant pause which is holding the developments back

The press have been strangely quiet, even on the Tevez transfer. But then along came the Eto'o story and it was apparently game on.

Well today has been the cold shower for City and the faithful.

Eto'o has said no to the move, Kaka has said City aren't a big club with history and no other big names are being linked with City.

Apparently the Tevez signing is secured and will be announced shortly. I do hope so.

Where Mark Hughes and City go next will show us how well developed the the strategy and delivery plans are.

But I fear that it will once again highlight the limitations of having Mark Hughes as manager as that might just be where the real weakness is.

Manchester City to Have the Best Forward Line in EPL: United Shaken?

Andy Morris — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 06:27:26 -0400

The transfer rumours and speculation of the last few weeks have often been wide of the mark, with many clubs simply not doing any business at all.

One club that has been busy is, of course, Manchester City.

I have written plenty about what could be at COMS and how, given time, City could pressure the incumbent top four clubs in England.

What has and is now highly likely to happen in the next month may well shift the power further than many imagined possible.

Liverpool are looking to invest, but on a limited basis with players like Alonso saying their farewells.

Arsenal are famous for not spending massively and of course their managers' Gallic stubbornness is getting in the way of doing the obvious, and buying more experienced quality.

Chelsea are likely to spend substantially and of course with a new manager almost anything could happen.

But the weakest link in the top four are unusually Manchester United.

Having lost Tevez, through an arrogant assumption that he would be grateful for ANY opportunity to be part of the Old Trafford, much to the annoyance of the fans.

And having lost Ronaldo because of his arrogance and desire to leave for Real Madrid they are looking rather depleted up front.

Berbatov is almost comically inept at times, with a streak of laziness a mile wide which will rile the fans even more than Ronaldo's toy chucking, childishness.

Rooney, of course, is a class act but may not shine to the same extent without Ronaldo alongside him.

So is Fergie about to turn to Macheda and Wellbeck after trousering the proceeds of Ronnie's move?

If he does, then the attacking options available to Mark Hughes at City are likely to be the envy of most.

Of course, the promise offered by hugely talented individuals drawn together is often not fully realised, but the fact that City could be calling on Santa Cruz, Robinho, Eto'o, Tevez could be enough to make City the most dangerous attacking team in England.

Man City Close to Being Considered World-Class Option for Players

Andy Morris — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:31:35 -0400

The year is 1999 and Manchester City are considering squad developments as Chairman David Bernstein and Manager Joe Royle run the rule over the squad.

Nick Weaver is first choice keeper with a defence consisting of journeymen of the likes of Andy Morrison, Richard Jobson, Danny Granville alongside home-grown talent like Richard Edgehill.

A midfield powered by Jamie Pollock, Tony Grant, Mark Kennedy and the classy Ian Bishop aren't the most illustrious in the club's history but are getting the job done.

The goals were certainly going to come from Shaun Goater with others such as Chris Greenacre and Craig Russell adding little more than effort.

The jewel in the crown however was Shaun Wright-Philips (SWP), and it was his emergence that really proved the lack of quality elsewhere.

There have been many twists and turns in the last 10 years but surely no club has ever been so transformed.

There has been undoubted improvements in the quality of players who have been associated with City in the last few years.

Nic' Anelka showed that they still had some pulling power, but the sale of SWP also proved that they were far from the top team the fans ached them to be.

I have read today that Carlos Tevez is more or less certain to be a City player next season, adding another respected name to the squad that includes Santa Cruz, Gareth Barry, Shay Given, Robinho, Elano, and, of course, SWP.

£19m players such as Jo are now no longer up to spec so the search continues for top class talent.

The struggle has no doubt been in convincing players of why City were a destination for top players.

Robinho was the first and many thought the process of squad building would be easy enough as money was no issue, but apparently that wasn't how the club saw it.

They have developed the squad relatively slowly, incremental increases in quality that are starting to add up to far more.

And so we are now at a point where Tevez is about to sign, and that may well mean that City are now a club who players are going to sign for.

Samuel Eto'o could be next, as well a myriad of others being connected to City in the press.

So we seem now to be light years from 1999 in so many ways, but certainly in the quality of players who turn up to train and play for Manchester City.

To this point that seems reward enough.

Next will come the trophies and that might mean looking at who City were in 1976 and the last significant silverware the club won.

But the next six weeks will show us exactly how far City have come, if Tevez and Eto'o are playing in sky blue, then I for one will pinch myself occasionally just to make sure it's real.

Manchester City's Sensible Splurge: Or How To Spend £250 Billion

Andy Morris — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 09:36:31 -0400

In the eyes of some, including some who should know better, Manchester City were killing football.

Their vast wealth was the final nail in the coffin of our beloved sport.

Then Real Madrid went mental and City seem like the well-managed, sensible investing club of the future.

What a difference a week can make.

Platini has now famously changed his line on big spending clubs as it is no longer an English club doing rather silly things. No surprises there, considering his dislike of all things Anglo-Saxon.

It seems that Real's spree hasn't been thought through and may saddle them with an unworkable debt burden in 3-4 years time.

So UEFA's plans to ban a clubs entry into European competition if they are unable to live within their means could remove Madrid from Champions League footie! M. Platini says Non?

And are Manchester United likely to trouser the £80 million from the Ronaldo sale to keep the threat of Platini's plans at arms length? Perhaps.

So if debt IS the problem then City are fine and dandy as its come direct from the owners own funds, or is that still debt?

Ignoring the head bursting idea that by spending your own money still means that you're in debt (It doesn't does it?? My debit card lets me buy things with my own money but am I in debt to KFC if I buy my Fillet Burger meal that way?)

And it's not an English issue either.

There were massive headlines earlier this year when it was estimated that English football was in debt to the tune of £3 billion pounds.

But as United is £700 million of that and Liverpool £300 million, it became clear that things weren't critical.

A report by the Spanish government claims that Spain's professional football clubs owe over £600 million pounds in TAX ALONE.

Unlike in the UK, where tax bills get paid or clubs are closed down, Spain's clubs also owe hundreds of millions in social security payments and as much or more in other levies, taxes, and loans from the public purse.

Is that debt M. Platini?

Lets say that debt is only when you owe other people money, then no Spanish clubs would be eligible to play in European competitions.

In England Man United, Arsenal, and Liverpool would be sidelined as well.

But then there is Manchester City, spending slowly but surely in a world where debt can kill a club.

Leeds and Valencia are clubs who have suffered at the hands of bankers and venture capitalists but City are different. The money is already the owners to spend, be that investing in Ferarri, Barclays Bank or Roque Santa Cruz.

So when people talk about Manchester City killing football it would be worth considering how many clubs who sell to City might well survive because of that money.

Which of the so-called big clubs creaking under debts are waiting for the call from Garry Cook in the knowledge that the money being invested by City is the only money being invested?

So if £250 million pounds is the figure being spent on players by the Blues then it may well mean that some teams survive because of it.

Are City killing football or saving it?

ESPN Buys Premier League Television Rights

Andy Morris — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:34:37 -0400

Rupert Murdoch and Sky Sports will be a little worried tonight as ESPN finally made a move into the English Premier League, buying the rights to 46 games previously held by Setanta.

Considered by many to be the only realistic challenger to Sky, it has been surprising people that it has taken so long for them to gain a foothold in 'Soccer' in England.

Some are suggesting that ESPN will not scramble the signal and allow all with a dish to watch the games as a direct challenge to Sky.

This move will in effect mean that ESPN will build a customer base ahead of any decision to commit billions at the next rights auctions.

The Great Manchester City Sale: Buy One, Get One Free?

Andy Morris — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:17:50 -0400

There has been a lot of talk about the new players targeted by Mark Hughes at Manchester City.

The list of new players is a long one and includes players such as Roque Santa Cruz, Carlos Tevez, and Samuel Eto'o.

Such a list is a remarkable situation in itself considering where the club was only two years ago, but now Hughes has to deal with the task of shedding the dead wood.

Players from "the old City" are now nowhere near capable enough and will need to be moved on.

City's youth production line continues to churn out very capable players as well, and many of them will no longer be considered good enough for City either.

The revenue that can be generated (although not critical to City's business plan) will be welcome and is likely reinvested in the youth setup, especially the sale of homegrown players.

So who is heading for the exit, and what could be earned from the sales?

Joe Hart

Many people think the FEK (future England keeper) is worthy of his place in the City squad, possibly even pushing Shay Given for first choice keeper, but that idea is at least two years away.

A season-long loan at Birmingham City will show us more.

Kasper Schmeichel

Never big enough (ego aside) or good enough, he was a great prospect, but will likely leave City for a moderate fee of £1m or so.

Michael Ball

Always a makeweight, he is now a free agent.

Tal Ben Haim

The only question asked by City fans is WHY did we buy him? Fingers crossed for a swift exit for a few million, if we are lucky.

Glauber Berti

The most popular substitute appearance in living memory this season will at least give him one fond memory of his stay at COMS.

Javier Garrido

A player of ability who is likely to make way for a new player from the youth ranks or purchased from elsewhere. Just not good enough anymore. £3m?

Danny Mills

Need we even bother with this one?

Gelson Fernandes

Purchased as "one for the future," but now the needs of the club have changed massively. £3m?

Dietmar Hamann

If gambling debts, drunk driving, or laughing in the changing room after an 8-1 spanking weren't enough, perhaps the fact that his legs had gone and took his passion with him helped his inevitable departure.

Michael Johnson

This won't be popular, but I fear he has to move on to get his head sorted out. £10m may be achievable for a player more than twice as good as Joey Barton.

Elano

If ever a player needed to go, it was Ralph. £8m.

Kelvin Etuhu

A good young player, but good is no longer enough at City, is it? Hull, Bolton, or Fulham would be ideal for him in a £3m deal.

The great hope from the last summer window, he is likely to find a new home for a knockdown price. £7m.

Felipe Caicedo

The new "Goat" has a special place in the hearts of the fans, but he won't be staying for long. £6m.

Ched (Chedwyn) Evans

Those who saw Paul Moulden play for City will see the comparison—great prospect who simply isn't fast enough or good enough. £4m.

Benjani Mwaruwari

The sleepy one is likely to move on if he doesn't miss his flight. £7m.

Daniel Sturridge

Bye-bye to the greatest (or is the greediest) player to come through City's academy according to some, not by me it must be said. £?m.

Darius Vassell

A real professional who deserves to be rewarded by a free move to another club.

I understand that the above list is a long one, but it's likely to be 17 out and perhaps seven in, with some players moving up from the academy.

The youth players moving up are likely to include:

Vladimir Weiss

Robbie Mak

Curtis Obeng

Ben Mee

Adding these to the likes of Stephen Ireland, Nedum Onuoha, Shaleum Logan, Micah Richards, and of course Shaun Wright-Phillips, the squad will have a 30 percent homegrown element for next season. Not bad for a club that apparently aims to buy success.

Santa Cruz To Sign On at Eastlands For £18 Million

Andy Morris — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:45:33 -0400

It is now being widely reported that a deal has been agreed to finally take Santa Cruz to City.

The cost of the transfer is reportedly between £15 and £18 million.

There may be a sigh of relief in Mark Hughes' office at getting his man in the end, but there is likely to be a sigh of disappointment at so much money having been spent on a relatively low profile, one season player.

Whether the Paraguayan front man can recapture the form of 2 seasons past really is unknown, and City fans familiar with the idea of top class, world renown players being linked with their club are likely to be unimpressed by the capture.

It would be very disappointing indeed if Santa Cruz were to become City's first choice marksman.

Only Mark Hughes will know how important a piece of the future City team Santa Cruz is.