Bayern Munich’s match-up against French side Lyon was hardly likely to draw any favourable comparisons with Barcelona’s visit to the San Siro. Lyon, following their lengthy road-trip, looked leggy and content with containing their opposition, while Bayern Munich opted for a restrained, measured approach which exemplified a vast contrast to their gung-ho efforts in their previous ties against Fiorentina and Manchester United – of course, we need not reminding of how important an away goal can be, and neither does Bayern. Read more →

Emile Heskey in 2006

With England set to endure their last World Cup with Emile William Ivanhoe Heskey, the striker should be beginning to think about where his future lies. Yes, he does have a couple more years of football ahead of him, even if it isn’t in the top-flight, but it’s never too early to think about how the transferable skills he has gained as a footballer could assist him in future job opportunities. Read more →

England rarely get any praise from their European neighbours when it comes to football. When a favourable appraisal is uttered the content often belies its condescending, patronising tone. But Brits are Brits; stiff upper lip and all that yeah? Read more →

The following was first published on the 14th June 2010 following England’s 1-1 draw in their first World Cup group game against the USA for www.footballtransfertavern.com

Steven Gerrard opens England's 2010 World Cup account

Another World Cup and another muted start for the England team. England tries to deny it, but the national team are just as predictable as a Zimbabwean election. But, if you manage to brush pass all the jingoism and all the hyperbole, you’ll come to the realization that England’s performance wasn’t that bad. It was certainly the best they’ve produced in recent months.

Credit should be given to the USA, first and foremost. Their shape, which placed Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey just behind the two forwards, posed a serious question to England and severely limited their vital left-wing outlet. Moreover, their deep midfield and high defensive line compacted the space in which Wayne Rooney usually operates and stunted the impact Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard could have on the game. Read more →