FLOOD EXPECTED ON SOUTH COAST?

Cardiff City's forgotten man, Willo Flood, is linked in today's news with a move to Championship rivals Southampton.

The 23 year old Dubliner, a midfieler cum wideman, was signed by Dave Jones for a reported £200,000 from Manchester City in 2006 but never set the world alight at Ninian Park. At 5'6" and weighing well under 10 stone, he looked as lightweight at his stats would suggest and that was the reason Man City let him go too. He only started 5 games for Cardiff but had plenty on appearences off the bench.

However, few can fault his battling qualities and he is returing to Cardiff City for a very successful season on loan at Scottish Premier side Dundee UInited where he feated in a Cup Final and became a favourite. The Tangerines, though, don't have the funds to finance a permanent deal and with Flood out of the picture at City, odds are that he will move on before the new season starts. The Saints would apper to be a good opportunity for him.

EURO'2008 GAME 15: GROUP D SWEDEN 1 SPAIN 2

The Spaniards are through to the quarter-finals with a game to spare but never matched the hieghts of their opening performance and needed a dramatic 92nd minute winner that nobody could see coming to dispose of Sweden.

The game was no classic and, later winner appart, all the key moments were in the opning period.

The contest started well and Spain grabbed the opener with just 15 minutes on the clock with Liverpool's Torres finishing a quality move in the same style. The Swedes, however, showed they are a useful side, even if limited up front, and grabbed an equaliser on 34 with Ibrhahim netting his second of the tournament after no Swedish goal for two and a half year. His goal against Greece was spectacular, this was a scrappy stab home.

It looked game on but apart from Spain being denied what looked a clear penalty, there was no other action of note. Spain showed glimpses but never when it mattered until the 2nd of 3 added minutes at the end, a ball pumped downfield, Villa got behind the defender with a deft touch and suddenly found his way to goal unbarred and his finish was cool.

Video Highlights
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/7455067.stm

EURO2008 GAME 16: GROUP D RUSSIA 1 GREECE 0

Defending Champions Greece are out of Euro'2008 with a game left following their second successive 1-0 defeat, this time to Russia. The result meant that Spain are through from Group D while Sweden and Russia go head-to-head in hte final game, a must win for the Russians but a draw would suffice for the Swedes.

It was an unremarkable contest and, in that vein, was decided by Zyryanov who scored from close range, set up by a team-mate making the most of an error by the Greek keeper.

Chances were missed by both side, a couple were sitters, but the Greeks were second best and never threatened to progress beyond the group phase so will be going home in 5 days. It's very likely they'll be joined by The Russians who haven't shown a great deal to worry Wales in the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Nothing else to be added ... especially as I didn't watch any of it other than the goal!


Video Highlights
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/7455160.stm

THAT'S GOOD!

There's limited vocabulary and there's the reaction of the Bournemouth manager, Kevin "Good" Bond, to his side's Carling Cup home draw versus Cardiff City.

Talking to South Coast journos, Bond told them, "It's a good draw for us. They are a good side, they play good football and it'll be a good fixture for us. It's tough but it should be a good game as well.'

Oh good!

ACADEMY GO OVERSEAS FOR PRE-SEASON TOO

The first team go to Portugal, the resereves go to ... mmm ... Chippenham and now the Academy are off to Dublin on a mini pre-season tour.

Neil Ardley is taking the next set of future "sell'em for cash" men (can't call them Cardiff City stars of the future anymore, can we) to Ireland for 2 games against University College on July 16 and Shelbouurne U20's on July 19.

DEVO TO SUE McDONALD'S

NEW WAVE NIGEL

(no, it ain't based on me!)

Most Devotees were chuffed recently to see a Devo-eque character called New Wave Nigel wearing a Devo hat, Devo sunglasses and Devo jump suit being given away with McDonald's Happy Meals. By all account, he played a Devo-style tune too.

Only problem now seems to be that they didn't ask Devo and the group are not best pleased. Whether it's on moral grounds or the fact they're getting no income from it is open to debate, and whether they have a chance of being successful in any claim, but I do like Jerry's comments.

http://www.clubdevo.com/mp/news_pgs/mcdevo_toy.html

Devo to sue McDonald's over doll's hat

EURO'2008 GAME 14: GROUP C HOLLAND 4 FRANCE 1

After beating current World Cup holders Italy 3-0 in their first game, the Dutch were equally emphatic in pasting runners-up France.

The French had Thierry Henry available after injury and he scored a smart goal too with the deftest of touches with less than 20 minutes remaining. That gave the French hope and it reduced the deficit to 1-2 but the Dutch scored within a minute to oput it beyond doubt.

Holland again had those lucky(?) powder blue socks and gave out lessons in counter-attacking and smart movement. France, like Italy, had more and maybe better chances but the Dutch absorbed and hit back with interest.

Liverpool's Dirk Kuyt put the Dutch ahead inside 10 minutes and it stayed that way until almost the hour although Henry missed a couple of prime chances of the type he would have buried eyes closed a year or two. He was made to pay as a blistering three man counter-attack was finshed by Arsenal's Van Persie just 2 minutes after appearing as sub.

When Henry scored, it looked game on again but Robben spectacularly finished from an angle and Sneiders wrapped it up in added time.

The Dutch are through while France, like Italy, may not be in the quarter-finals at all.

EURO'2008 GAME 13: GROUP C ITALY 1 ROMANIA 1

A cracker of a game which saw Italy staring elimination in the face after trailing and being indebted to neckerchief wearing keeper Buffon for a late penalty save in a 1-1 draw against Romania.

The World Champions' hopes remain hanging by a thread and the modd is deparate with the inquest already underway in Italia and boss Donadoni making 5 changes for this game - desparation many reckoned.

A dramatic first half saw Italy take the game to the Romanians, come close a couple of times and have a goal wromngly disallowed but it was Romania who threatened most with a deflected free-kick coming off the inside of a post - the aftermath of which saw two Romanians inadvertently headbutt each other. One was carted away with a serious head injury, the other carried on with a bandage on his forehead that made him look like someothing out of Dr. Who. Mutu was played through one on one but shot straight at Buffon from an angle.

Both keepers made fine saves but the deadlock was broken in dramatic style when Zambrotta misjudged a back header and Mutu got behind him to finish emphatically as Buffon dashed out. The Italians looked in disarray as that happened but levelled in a minute, Panucci heading hiome at a corner as Romania forgot to put a man on the post.

There were thrills and spills at each end but the real drama came 6 minutes from time when Romania were awarded a contentious penalty, Mutu hit it well enough but Buffon saved it superbly and a Roman orgy followed.

Italy know their only hope of progression now is winning thier final game versus France and even then, they need a favourable result in the Holland v Romania game. Hanging by a thread.




Game video highlights here
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/7363356.stm

RAMBO COMPLETES MOVE TO THE EMIRATES

Cardiff City's loss is Arsenal's gain. On a day when Aaron Ramsey completed his £5M move to Arsenal and Cardiff City have sent out a typical warning that we shouldn't expect to see the money spent on replacements - they know how to motivate us! - you wonder what the benefit is to the club overall if your interest is the football team but it's sensational for Ramsey himself.

QUOTES BY RAMSEY AND ARSENE WENGER

After formally signing his contract today, Ramsey commented that, "Arsene (Wenger) talked to me for a long time about the club and the plans for the future, which really excites me as it's a club which always gives young players an opportunity at the highest level of the game and I am going to work my hardest to be part of future successes here."

Rambo added, "It was a really difficult decision to leave Cardiff City, they are my local club with great supporters and I would just like thank everyone at Cardiff City for their support and help in my early career. I will still look out for their results and there will always be a place in my heart for the Bluebirds."

Arsene Wenger admitted he had been a Ramsey admirer long before he got into The Bluebirds first team as Rambo shone at Highbury in a narrow F.A. Youth Cup defeat for City in February 2007.

"We're delighted to have signed Aaron Ramsey," said Wenger "as he is a young player who has shown huge potential with his performances for both Cardiff City and Wales at Under-17 and Under-21 levels. Although still only 17, he already shown that he is a very intelligent and mature player with great quality."

Wenger concluded, "Although he mainly plays in midfield, Aaron is a versatile player and can also play across the defence. We are all looking forward to welcoming Aaron to the Club for our pre-season preparations."

CARDIFF CITY drawn at BOURNEMOUTH in CARLING CUP

CARDIFF CITY have been drawn away at Bournemouth in this season’s Carling Cup First Round. The tie is expected to take place at Dean Court on Tuesday August 16th and it’s easy to imagine a few fans may take a mini break on the South Coast at that time.

The clubs last met in the third round of the same competition in a thriller in October 2004. Cardiff were denied victory in the last minute of normal time and extra-time, Cameron Jerome scored his first Bluebirds goal and Tony Vidmar was sent off but City won 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out with Neil Alexander making his first penalty save on a bitterly cold but brilliantly entertaining night.

After reaching the last 16 of the Carling Cup with an unforgettable occasion at Anfield as well as reaching the F.A. Cup Final last season, fans will be hoping City continue to take the competition more seriously as they hadn’t under Dave Jones before last season.

Elsewhere in the draw Reading (you’re not Premier anymore!) head to Dagenham & Redbridge while league newbies Exeter and Aldershot host Southampton and visit Coventry respectively.

The full draw, with ties due to be played week commencing 11 August, reads;
Preston v Chesterfield

Chester v Leeds

Leicester v Stockport

Sheff Utd v Port Vale

Grimsby v Tranmere

Crewe v Barnsley

Hartlepool v Scunthorpe

Derby v Lincoln

Notts County v Doncaster

Sheff Wed v Rotherham

Shrewsbury v Carlisle

Wolves v Accrington

Bury v Burnley

Rochdale v Oldham

Nottm Forest v Morecambe

Huddersfield v Bradford

Macclesfield v Blackpool

Walsall v Darlington

Coventry v Aldershot

M K Dons v Norwich

Wycombe v Birmingham

Brighton v Barnet

Gillingham v Colchester

Southend v Cheltenham

Swansea v Brentford

Luton v Plymouth

Exeter v Southampton

Watford v Bristol Rovers

Bournemouth v Cardiff City

Bristol City v Peterborough

Charlton v Yeovil

Millwall v Northampton

Swindon v QPR

Crystal Palace v Hereford

Dag & Red v Reading

Ipswich v Leyton Orient

It's a bizarre coincidence that the day Aaron Ramsey finally moved from Cardiff City to Arsenal coincided with news of the death, at the age of 75, of Derek Tapscott who served both clubs with distinction. Indeed, both official websites of the clubs are paying their respects.

Tapscott is a Barry boy who started football with his hometown club (and it's hard, if not impossible, to think of any other notable Barry-born footballers) was snapped up by Arsenal for £2,750 in 1953 and was a huge hit with the Gunners grabbing 68 goals in 132 games.

With City, he was just as successful netting 101 times in 234 games in 7 seasons to 1965 before playing on for many years in local Welsh football. He also got 14 Welsh Caps.

Two years ago, an authorised biography (Tappy by Terry Grandin) was released with launches at Ninian Park and Highbury and Tappy remained a frequent visitor to Ninian Park.

Cardiff City commented, "We would like to pass on our sincere condolences to everyone who was fortunate to have known 'Tappy'."

DEVO enchant PARIS

DEVO briefly popped into Europe last week for a date in France but missed the UK this time. Sadly, I wasn't able to make it which makes me feel more angst which I read this excellent review. The boys still got it!

http://www.realbuzz.com/en-gb/article/index?pageID=18424

EURO'2008 GAME 12: GROUP B AUSTRIA 1 POLAND 1

Austria and Poland both lost their first game and this draw will mean both are probably are the way home this weekend, neither look good enough to progress, but it will be the Austrians who are more buoyant as progress is in their hands and they were saved by a 93rd minute penalty that not all refs would give.

It was Premiership ref Howard Webb who awarded it after the second bout of penalty area wrestling

Austria should have been ahead early on but Celtic keeper Boric made three good saves before the Poles, whose fans outnumbered the home side, grabbed the lead on half-hour with their only chance and this was controversial too as Guerrero netted while clearly offside.

After the Poles survived a more obvious penalty shout early 2nd half, the game was going nowhere and drifted to the 1-0 result until that late, late penalty netted by 38 yr old Vastic became the oldest scorer in Euro Finals history and he will get free beer for life as offered by a Vienna brewery.

At least it meant the co-hosts, who have now won just 2 of 18 games, avoided the early exit embarrassment that the Swiss had. Progress will only happen if they beat the Germans in their final game, a tall order but it's taller for the Poles who can only progress by beating Crotia by a greater margin thatn the Austrians manage. Book your flight home boys!

EURO'2008 GAME 11: GROUP B GERMANY 1 CROATIA 2

Croatia have caused Euro'2008's first upset and I couldn't be happier.

The first - and only - Euro Finals match I watched was in Euro'96 held in England when I saw Croatia v Germany at Old Trafford. Croatia, then in their infancy, were so unlucky losing 2-1 to Germany. I like their colours, I love their fans and they knocked out England in the qualifying group which makes me love them more. Tonight, they got their revenge over Germany with a fully merited 2-1 success and they had more fans present than the Germans who looked vulnerable, good news for Wales when we play them in World Cup qualifiers.

Have you noticed the teams are marching out to White Stripes' 7 Nation Army with the crowds doing some Euro-style humalong to it? I like it.

This was rthe first game I watched in a pub, Lloyds Bar in Greyfriars Road to be precise and the Germans were there in number which made it all the more enjoyable to cheer for Croatia!

Srna opened the scoring on 24, Olic doubled the lead midway through the second half with a bit of a freakish goal but no more than deserved. The hugely impressive Croatians they took the game to the Germans and looked the better side in every area of the park, quicker of thought and feet. Modric, heading for Spurs, looked a class apart. So heavy was their domination that camera seemed to spend most of the match showing Jans Lehman in the German goal and, in particular his new emerged and large bald spot. With his perm, maybe he's been sleeping against a velcro headboard?

The Germans had a fortunate way back into the game with 12 minutes left, Podolski getting his third of the tournament, but there was no late onslaught as the Croats closed the game in style and the Germans finishing with 10 as Schweinsteiger who ran the show at Millennium Stadium in qualifiers and looked fantastic here as a late sub, got a straight red for a silly bit of argy-bargy.

Croatia are qualified for the quarter-finals and there were emotional celebrations, the Germans should be there too but have have work to do and will be reassessed them as potential winners.

CITY BID FOR JASON ROBERTS, BLACKBURN SAID NO, NO, NO

I’ve gone all Amy Whinehouse!

Cardiff City’s undisclosed bid for Jason Roberts has been declined by Blackburn Rovers. It is believed that Dave Jones put Roberts at the top of his list some time ago and had been deep in chat with Rovers then boss Mark Hughes.

However with Sparky now gone to Manchester City, Rovers awaiting a new boss and reported other interest, some form Premiership clubs, it now looks a dead duck for the 30 year physical and pacy Grenadian who has a better than 1 in 3 career scoring record but has only started 20 times in 2 seasons at Ewood Park but appeared more often off the bench.

Peter Ridsdale has commented about developments, “It looks like Jason is staying at Blackburn now from what I have seen but we are still working on bringing in the strikers we need. I spoke to a Premiership manager over the weekend about a potential target and we will keep working hard.”

With some irony, City’s hope of getting one of their other chief striking targets in Wales starlet Ched Evans on loan from Man City has probably disappeared too with Mark Hughes haven taken over at that club.

Never mind, we still got Warren Feeney to rescue us!!!

CITY’s BASE TEMPORARILY MOVES FROM THE VALE OF GLAM TO THE VALE DO LOBO

For those of you who like being Bluebirds groupies or hanger-on’ers (and just setting off fire alarms!!), Cardiff City will be basing themselves at Vale de Lobo and setting up training camp there during July 20 – 25.

Longh gone are those days of running up and down Barry Island beach, taking assault courses at St Athan, those tortured dunes at St Athan or jogging around Jubile Park, the modern day City player heads for 5 star luxury – albeit with serious training and competitive football – overseas.

Cardiff will be based there from July 20 – 25 during which time they will be playing a ‘behind closed doors’ friendly versus Vitoria de Setubal and more high profile games in the Algarve Cup against hosts Vitoria de Guimares and Scottish giants, Celtic on the 22nd and 24th respectively. As City move into their luxury villas, the players and management of Real Madrid will be the occupants moving out. Nice!

The resort of Vale de Lobo … not quite Merthyr Mawr
http://www.designholidays.co.uk/pages/algarve/vale-do-lobo.htm

PUTTING THE “HEAT-ON” ENCKLEMAN

In part one of what looks like being the briefest of in-depth interviews, Tom Heaton talks a little about his decision to sign on loan for Cardiff City this coming season and his past experiences. Let’s hope his time turns out to be more successful (and longer) than the failure of Ross Turnbull this time last year.

http://www.cardiffcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10335~1327095,00.html

SA GOES SMOOTH AND DILUTED

What is wrong with drinkers these days?

Got to admit I don’t mind the odd so-called “Premium Beer” which is no beer at all when the weather is good but gimme Brains Dark over Dark Smooth and Brains SA over SA Smooth anyday ... even the thought of it and weakened too!

The problem is that you don’t get a choice. So many pubs sell Smooth beers and not the cask version, they don’t know how to keep or serve “proper” ale but they know how to shift chemical crap.

SAVE OUR DARK, SAVE OUR S.A.
Cardiff brewer’s beer goes smoothic Wales - United Kingdom

TODAY’S AARON RAMSEY NEWS

It’s almost a daily bulletin but these two stories in today’s Echo are quite revealing. Have a read and see what you think.

Bluebirds could really cash in on Ramsey’s departureic Wales

How Wenger beat Fergie to Ramseyic Wales

WALES WORLD CUP FIXTURE DATES CONFIRMED

All the home games, despite John Toshack’s pleas, will be played in Cardiff at Millennium Stadium. As always, they’ve given themselves a chance of a strong start but it didn’t work out that way with Euro’2008 so let’s hope for a far better campaign this time around.


Wales 2010 World Cup qualifiers - Group 4

6 September 2008 Lichetenstein v Germany, Wales v Azerbaijan
10 September Finland v Germany, Azerbaijan v Lichtenstein, Russia v Wales
11 October Germany v Russia, Wales v Lichtenstein, Finland v Azerbaijan
15 October Germany v Wales, Russia v Finland

28 March 2009 Germany v Lichtenstein, Russia v Azerbaijan, Wales v Finland
1 April Wales v Germany, Lichtenstein v Russia
6 June Finland v Lichtenstein, Azerbaijan v Wales
10 June Finland v Russia
19 August Azerbaijan v Germany
5 September Azerbaijan v Finland, Russia v Lichtenstein
9 September Wales v Russia, Lichtenstein v Finland, Germany v Azerbaijan
10 October Russia v Germany, Lichtenstein v Azerbaijan, Finland v Wales
14 October Germany v Finland, Azerbaijan v Russia, Lichtenstein v Wales

AJAX GETS TO THOSE HARD TO GET AT PLACES - including Ninian Park!

Although not yet officially announced, news has emerged that Cardiff City's now traditional one home pre-season friendly only against foreign opposition the weekend before the new season gets underway will be against Dutch masters Ajax of Amsterdam.

The media, as usual, are far more excited about it than fans will be. They never prove to be as exciting as they can be and many give it a miss. Ajax will be managed after Euro'2008 by current Dutch boss and legend Marco Van Basten. They are a side shorn of stars - The Ecgho talk about how one played for Charlton in the past, another for Newcastle and another played twice for Norwich. That whet your appetite eh? You can however imagine that Van Basten may well bring some new faces with him.

The game will take place Friday August 1st at 7:45pm.

EURO'2008 GAME 10: GROUP A - SWITZERLAND 1 TURKEY 2

That's not yodelling you cow bells you can hear in the Swiss Alps tonight, it's howls of despair as one of the co-hosts are out just 5 days and 2 games into the Finals in a game both sides needed to win but Turkey deserved to scrape home in dramatic style with an injury time winner.

This was one of the best contests so far but possibly watched by the lowest UK audience as Beeb pushed in onto BBC2 so the rest of the nation could watch the Final of The Apprentice.

For the first 20 minutes, even those more interested in the final were probably preparing to switch channels as it was tepid but then the fun and frolics started as someone decided to mix football with Jeux Sans Frontieres and introduce water. The most amazing monsoon style run lashed down for 20 minutes leaving puddles all over the palce, defenders sliding in, the ball stopping dead with nobody able to run with it and general hilarity - if only we had Stuart Hall to commentate!

It was getting close to the stage where it was getting dangerous and unplayable, it possibly had reached that, when the Swiss scored as the pitch suited their direct style. A long ball sent wide by Sendero, it stopped in a puddle to hold up nicely for the winger, he came in and sent a ball across the face of goal which saw Turks trying to run oun when players were yards offside and then, brilliant comedy. as the ball stopped still in a puddle in front of goal for Hakan to tap in from 3 feet and even then he scuffed it.

The Swiss should have made it two as Hakan missed a sitter in similar style but this time, the cross missed the puddle and zipped off the surface and arrived to quick so he put it wide of the gaping goal. The Turks were trying to play a passing game while the Swiss, attacking the shllow end!, found conditions perfect. The Turks did hit the post via their impressive striker, Arda, who needed to try, well, Arda!

Then the rain stopped, half-time must have saw a few frogmen, the local swimming group and some immense work taking place as the sides returned wih the pitch much improved and suddenly Turkey were able to pass.

They equalised on 58 minutes, simple header which the keeper perhaps should have saved and then it ebbed and flowed. The Swiss almost nicked it 5 minutes from time but then The Turks senstaionally knocked them out after playing left all 2nd half, then finally broke right, Arda ran 35 yards, the defender crucially invited him inside and he shot, caught a defender and looped over a helpless keeper.

The Swiss sloped home ... to the slopes ... time to get back to winter sports!

EURO'2008 GAME 9: GROUP A - PORTUGAL 3 CZECH REPUBLIC 1

Portugal, just 4 days and 2 games into Euro'08, all bar confirmed themselves as first quarter-finalists with an excellent, if flattering win, over Petr Cech's Czechs.

The Czechs played far better than their opening game which they won. By dropping 6'7" veteran status Kohler (BBC pronounce him as Coller and ITV as Cola so take your pick!), they had more energy and pace going forward even if his replacement was Milan Baros - not good enough to play against Cardiff City in the F.A. Cup Final 3 weeks ago. What they didn't have , though, was the quality and flair of Ronaldo, Deco and co.

Slightly against the run of play Deco opening the scoring early - a scrappy goal set up at the second attempt after a scrappy Rnaldo run to make the chance - but the Czechs levelled it just past 15 minutes through a free low header at a corner by Sionko.

An excellent first half but the tempo dropped as there were suggestions of a stalemate until Deco made space and Ronaldo's early edge of area shot left Cech helpless.

The Czechs attacked hard but didn't have a finish to level it again and Portugal repeated their opening game scoreline with a 93rd minute quick Deco free-kickc sent Ronaldo clear and he squared the ball across Cech for Quaresma to tap into an empty net.

RAMSEY - "Gut Feeling" made me choose Arsenal

Haven't heard Devo's Gut Feeling for a while but may dig it out now. Instinct and gut feeling are as good as any reasons when making choice, especially when there is little to choose between the main players.

Good Luck Aaron

It was just a gut feeling that made me choose Arsenal over Man Utdic Wales

DAVE JONES is "amazed" that Aaron Ramsey has chosen to join Arsenal over Manchester United but why?

He's joining one of the top three clubs in the country, will live near or with his mate Chris Gunter, won't be coming back on loan (he wasn't keen on that) and been promised first team football for the Gunners next season ... even if that's likely to be Carling Cup. Man United offered to send him back to Cardiff for a year!!!

Jones can't disguise his feelings (above)

Story in today's Western Mail

I知 amazed Rambo has chosen Arsenal over Euro champions United ...ic Wales

EURO'2008 GAME 8: GROUP D SWEDEN 2 GREECE 0

Simple, bland but effective. That's Ikea for you but that''s also how it's nation of origin, Sweden, looked too brushing aside the limited challenge of current Euro Champions of Greece with a 2-0 margin.

There was little to enthuse about except the Swedish fans who filled two thirds of the stadium and, without exception, were donning a replica shirt.

The goals, both coming around the mid-point of the second half were sublime (Ibrahim's instinctive 20 yard drive probably the best individual goal so far) and ridiculous (as the Greek keeper missed a punch and a Swede just about bundled the ball home form a couple of feet with two Greeks on the floor). Sweden will be happy of course but they didn't suggest they'll be serious contenders when it gets to the business end of these Finals.

That's the first round of games over and rather than cagey football, it's produced 7 positive results. Can't say it's been the highest quality but it certainly has been entertaining and is set fair to get better and hotter as some sides have the win their next games or face early elimination.

EURO'2008 GAME 7: GROUP D SPAIN 4 RUSSIA 1

Y Viva Espana! Spain finally look the real deal in a tournament - always fancied but they always cock it up but in this showing, they may finally live up to expectations.

Two goals in each half with a David Villa hat-trick and a last minute Cesc Febregas header after a smart move demolished Russia, whose defence must be their worst since the Kremlin came into existence. Russia looked half decent going forward and grabbed a late consolation which at least made them the first losing side to score a goal but the way they defend, they got no chance of progression.

Commentary was as insane as ever with Mark Lawrenson - about as funny as a drunk uncle at a family wedding - kept making references to the Eurovision Song Contest. It's the Euros, get it. Genius Lawro! Radio 5 meantime wanted to fill the aiwaves talking about the stunning scenery from their commentary box. And, of course, they pondered how Russia qualified from England's Group, Steve McLaren deciding not to take part in that. Wonder why?

So that's Holland, Germany and Spain in the reckoning so far ... watch as they somehow mess it up.

RIDSDALE OFFERS HIS THOUGHTS ABOUT RAMBO TO THE ARSE

http://www.cardiffcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10335~1325950,00.html

ARRON RAMSEY IS GOING TO ARSENAL

The early morning speculation has proved correct as Rambo has told Cardiff City that he wishes to sign for Arsene Wenger and Arsenal. It now remains between the clubs to wrap up the finer detail but Peter Ridsdale has already confirmed it is the best 'up front' offer with some talk that The Gunners are paying the full fee now but that there will be no sell-on clause.

Rambo will now be close again to his best mate, Chris Gunter, who is nearby at rivals Spurs. Ironic both of them were sold by City before Cardiff fans had much chance to fully appreciate them as each only played 20 games for the The Bluebirds.

City fell over themselves to sell Rambo to United talking about the special relationship and thinking how they'd have Ramsey back next season. That's why I believe they too quickly snapped up United's offer when they could have had an auction and got more.

How ironic that the reason City wanted to get him to United - to get him back for City - is probably the biggest factor why it didn't happen ... well that and Alex Ferguson leaving it with Ramsey and his family to meet Gary Neville instead of him. That's poor!

Think Ramsey will be a better player with Arsenal and their style of football and I fully understand why, if he's leaving Cardiff then there's no way he would want to stay on. Can't escape the feeling that as good as the fee is, Ridsdale still cocked it up.

BEST WISHES AARON.

Cardiff City official statement

http://www.cardiffcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10335~1325841,00.html

The Greatest Cardiff City Video??

A cracking vid of 60 of the Greatest Cardiff City goals ever ... it's shcoking how many of them I was there to personally witness!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=VFWiS3yajZ8

RAMBO ANNOUNCEMENT EXPECT IN 24 HOUR, RISDALE UNSURE WHERE HE'S GOING, ARSENAL NOW FAVOURITES???

The reasons Cardiff City wanted Aaron Ramsey to go to Manchester United may well be one of the key factors that prevents it.

Ramsey and his family, all United fans, did not meet Alex Ferguson and it was left to Gary Neville to show Rambo about the place. Ferguson, of course, has also made a loose agreement to loan him back to Cardiff City for next season but the player himself doesn't appear keen to do that.

Understandably to all bar the most blindly Bluebirds followers, if he's moving on then he's moving on.

By contrast, Arsene Wenger was also away from North London but flew the Ramsey family to Basle to personally meet him by private jet is is understood to have assured him of first team action next season as well as not loaning him out either to Cardiff or anyone else.

Man United are believed to be in panic and chasing more talks, it's a fair bet that not sending him back to Cardiff will be part of that.

Whatever happens, it's now odds on that we've seen the last of Rambo in a City shirt something which the hierarchy appear to had taken for granted.

Pointless but Humorous

Got to smile at SLEEVEFACE, the latest fad which started on the 'net where people hold album covers featuring faces in front of their own. This has now rolled over into club nights, the latest of which was held at Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff last Friday as per this picture.

Some other funny examples can be seen at http://www.sleeveface.com/?p=75

See http://www.sleeveface.com/ for full details and more pictures.

EURO'2008 GAME 6: GROUP C HOLLAND 3 ITALY 0

The future's bright, the future is indeed orange.

The Dutch who make a habit of disharmony and messing up tournaments did the exact opposite in a blistering team performance to demolish the World Cup holders. As Wales only lost by 2 to them last week usuign kids, how good does that make us?? :>)

The scoreline flattered Holland who opened the scoring in controversial fashion as Van Nistelroy netted from close range midway through the opening half clearly standing ofside but it was allowed as an Italian who was injured in the previous attack had rolled off the pitch behind the goal which apparently meant he was onside.

Horse face was superb and Holland's other two goals were not total football but counter-attacgking at their best as Van Bronkhorst headed off the line and they scored at the other end seconds later with Sneiders with Van Bronkchort running 80 yards to send in the cross and it was almost identical in the second half when Van Der Saar made a brilliant free-kick save and then Van Bronkhorst went lung bursting to the opposite end to steer home a header.

Italy, officially the oldest side ever in the finals with average age more than 31, actually played very well and were so unlucky with several chances but without talisman Canavarro at the back, they were hopeless and ripped apart defensively.

Special mention must go to Holland's kit. Traditional orange shirts and white shorts but what the heck were their powder blue socks and straight line shirt numbers that looked like they had masking tape on look like? Shocking!

EURO'2008 GROUP C: ROMANIA 0 FRANCE 0

Group C - dubbed the Group of Death as it contains Italy, Holland and France - may as well be renamed to Coma Group if this evidence is anythign to go by. So bad was this game that it almost made me fondly sentimental about some of the dross Cardiff City were serving up at Ninian Park last Autumn!

Romania were cynical, set up defensively for a 0-0 and showed no ambition so they will be the happier side of the two even though they don't look like scoring or winning all tournament on this showing. France had the better possession but where unable to create and made to look poor and slow - a fear some held for their ageing side in which veterans Thierry Henry and Patrick Viera (who almost make Fowler and Hasselbaink seem young) were injured and Captain Lilian (lovely name) Thuram (not so lovely name) was winning his 141st cap.

Romania's star man Mutu couldn't sniff a half chance. Funny that, he had no problem sniffing at Chelsea! The quality of the game was best summed up when Romania brought on a sub who plays for the mighty Inverness!

I gave up and ate salad, it was more exciting.

PETER RIDSDALE DEFENDS RAMBO SALE AND THE FEE

Peter Ridsdale attampts to justify why he accepted the fee for Ramsey to go from Cardiff City to Arsenal or Everton or Manchester United as news emerges Rambo may be opting for life in North London and United completely jumped the gun.

Peter Ridsdale defends Ramsey sale

AARON RAMSEY TRANSFER ROADSHOW OVER, DECISION EXPECTED WITHIN 48 HOURS

Having completed talks with all three clubs chasing his signature following a meeting with Arsene Wenger on Saturday night, Rambo will have mulled over options with family and advisors yesterday and in his own mind, maybe heart too, will know what he wants next. It is being reported that he will give a final decision by no later than this Wednesday.

Manchester United jumped the gun last week announcing he was on the way via their official website when that was not the case. They still believe themselves to be favourites, especially as Ramsey is a lifelong United fan. It is the preferred choice of Cardiff City too since they hope to retain the player on a season's loan and strike some form of partnership with United. However don't count on things falling naturally into place.

There are rumours that Ramsey is not keen to stay on at Ninian Park and it is understandable that if he is sold, then it is time to move on too. Everton are Arsenal are also believed to be offering him first team chances next season which has to be attractive while Rambo's best mate, Chris Gunter, being at Spurs may make Arsenal an attractive proposition.

Could it be that City's eagerness to sell to Man United at a fee they appear to have agreed when the bidding war was hotting up and set to go higher will prove costly in more ways than one?

WEEKEND CARDIFF CITY PLAYER NEWS ROUND UP

Cardiff City have turned down two substantial bids for first teamers but rather than say, "he's not for sale", the club have stated the fee they would sell at.

Ipswich Town have tabled a £1M bid for Roger Johnson who may leave City for bigger and better things but that certainly wouldn't be Ipswich! Two Premier clubs, one of them undoubtedly Middlesbrough, are reported to be preparing bids for the centre-half who City say they wouldn't let go for less than £3M.

Peter Whittingham, meanwhile, has been the subject of a £1M bid from Nottingham Forest which had been expected for some time. "Nay" says Peter Ridsdale before swiftly adding, "but give me £1.5M and he's yours" to stop them disappearing altogether. Got a funny feeling this one may go through.

Aaron Ramsey has now met Alex Ferguson and Manchester United, David Moyes and Everton and flew to Switzerland on the weekend to meet Arsenal's Arsene Wenger. With Liverpool yet to have a bid accepted, it looks like Rambo will choose between the other three with Manchester United reckoned to be odds on favourites.

And don't rule out more players leaving news as a shirty Peter Ridsdale expressed his disdain at some players wanting their wages trebled to stay with City. Ridders says some have over-inflated egos. There's a man who should know all about that! Eight City 'stars' are out of contract in 12 months meaning City need to sort new contracts or risk losing them soon and maybe not for the prices City would like. "We'll make fair offers and increases to those we want to keep" adding that those who don't accept can go which is, maybe, what they want.

No news on the arrivals front except Robbie Fowler's agent said "there's a deal to be done!" giving the strongest hint yet that "God" will sign a pay-as-you-play contract for City. Dave Jones will be delighted, most City fans will be underwhelmed by contrast.

DEAN HURLEY R.I.P.

I've been away in Devon this weekend and got a call Friday night that fellow City fan and firend, Peter Hurley had tragically passed away. Spoke to his son, Dean, who was obviously very cut up but wanted people and City fans to know about it. I spoke to Mike Morris and there's a long thread now on the Cardiff City messageboard http://www.ccmb.co.uk/fudforum/index.php?t=tree&goto=652619&rid=10&S=7c4be8a02bf74f188f085ac09a96253a#page_top

Knowing Pete, he would be embarrassed by that reaction but loving it too and I know that his family and friends appreciate it.

Pete was one of the very first people from the website I got to know and it turned out I knew him before this website anyway. Until the 'net came along, City fans used to be in cliques and didn't know one another as we do know - everyone seemed to be an 'hiya mate'.

The first ever meeting of listers and messageboarders came before a League Cup away game at Fulham around '97 and there was Pete Hurley, someone I was familair with anyway.

You couldn't fail to notice Pete Hurley in the Canton Stand, or should I say hear him, as he was unbelievably vocal in his support of the team and also the criticsim in those years when City used to frustrate the hell out of us.

We travelled to a few away games together by car and also when I used to run a coach from the Lansdowne before the Rams came into existence.

Pete was very opinionated and passionate about City and that's why I always loved and respected him. Didn't go with the majority view if he felt otherwise and always stood by his opinion although willing to listen to others even with a argument or two (or more!) along the way.

When he lived and worked abroad in Germany and USA, he never stopped contributing to the forums. His passion was always there.Few sing or get more passionate at City away days than Dean, his son, these days. His father will be as proud as anything about that.

So sorry to lose you way too early Pete. RIP.

Dean - you know my thoughts - and support if needed - are with you.

EURO'2008 GAME 4: GROUP B GERMANY 2 POLAND 0

This Euro'2008 malarkey is way too predictable so far. Four games gobne, four positive results, the favourites have won each time and the underdogs have not got a goal. The two afternoon games have been 1-0, the two evening clashes have been 2-0. I see a pattern emerging!

Germany are tournament favourites, gamblers out there not put off them by Wales' 0-0 draw in Franksfurt qualifying group earlier this year.

Their performance is everything you come to expect from a German side in that it was ruthless, efficient and clinical so it is with soem irony that both goals were scored by Podolski, a Pole who changed nationality.

It was largely a stroll for the Germans. The Poles, full of names with K's W's and Z's in them (great for Scrabble!), put up resistance and showed heart in the second half after being thoriughly worked over in the opening period but never really looked like getting back into it.

Good News - I've discovered the red button gives Radio 5 commentary - so useful when tv summariser is Mark Lawrenson.

EURO'2008 GAME 3: GROUP B AUSTRIA 0 CROATIA 1

Oh dear, oh dear. 24 hours and 3 games into the tournament and both co-hosts are heading for the doo marked 'Exit'.

The game's goal came early, a penalty on just 4 minutes. A poor challenge in a needless place and Modric, bound for Spurs, hit it straight but the keeper dived away and that was it.

The Croats - with everyone named an "Itch" dominated for 25 but stopped playing and the Austrians huffed and puffed but like the Swiss yesterday, never ever really look like grabbing a goal or draw.

The Croats, of course, qualified from England’s group, the cue for BBC to remind us constantly and ponder how “our” England missed out. When do you think they will get over it???

Three games, three positive results and all won by the team in red. Next up Germany in white against Poland in red. That's the end of that sequence then!

LOCKETT LOSES, EASY WORK FOR PAVLIK

Everyone's worst fears came true as Gray Lockett who seemed to be making a massive step up in class to fight Kelly Pavlik showed it was exactly that. Three rounds, three knockdowns barly a punch in return. In other words, a mismatch!


http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/homepage/d/int/sport/boxing/1/-/news/sport1/hi/boxing/7441295.stm

THE RETURN OF THE SWANSEA SECOND CITY MENTALITY

I love Swansea, I like many Swansea people but you can often spot the chip on the shoulders down West before you’ve seen Port Talbot steelworks.

In the few years gap between playing rivalry with City in the Championship while Swansea played lower league football, the rivalry seemed to fade almost to obscurity … or at least it did in Cardiff save the odd chant of “You Jack B*stard” when an ex-Swan played against us or Trundle had something to say.

But with both clubs now in the Championship, expect it to occur again and we’re off and running already with a Swansea councilor condemning the Wales office for publishing some pics of Cardiff and praising our F.A. Cup Final showing while forgetting to mention Swansea’s promotion or showing any photos of their city in some internal guide.

EURO'2008 GAME 2: GROUP A PORTUGAL 2 TURKEY 0

A game to be excited about as The Portuguese who seem to get closer and closer to success each tournament demolished The Turks.

Two-nil it was, the second goal with the game’s last kick but it could have been several more with the woodwork hit three times, The Turk keeper making several saves and shots raining on goal. The Turks were hapless victims but when their front line is led by Tuncay who looked worse than average playing against Cardiff City for Middlesbrough, why be surprised?

Portugal lack a striker and overplay but are a joy to watch. Goals came from two substitutues both shortly after coming on, both coming from excellent moves, made The Portuguese look a side to be reckoned with. Thing is, those teams which looked brilliant at the start tend to miss out when it gets to the business end of a tournament.

EURO'2008 GAME 1: GROUP A SWITZERLAND 0 CZECH REPUBUBLIC 1

The opening game and one of the joint host countries are looking at an early exit after an unlucky defeat in a half decent game but which emphasised bot nations are simply making up the numbers in this tournament.

Being in deepest Devon, I was exploring g Plymouth Hoe as the opening ceremony took place which seems to have been universally agreed as dreadful but how can any ever match Diana Ross’ penalty miss at World Cup USA’94.

I managed to miss most of the first half too but that didn’t matter much either as The Swiss were spirited but clueless although I did like their shirt numbers which were set in Lego brick font although Petr Cech the Czech was giving them a helping hand by being Enckleman-like and panic punching weakly at anything in his direction while John Motson did his best to ruin things with constant reminders that Ingerlund weren‘t there … one of the very reasons I could enjoy it!
The Czechs qualified from Wales’ group were exactly as I remembered them - limited with a simple plan of hitting balls in the general direction of 6’7” statue ands Uncle Fester lookielikie Jan Koller. The half ended with some drama as Swiss Captain and talisman Frei (pronounced Fry) got an injury to finish his tournament and (not spelt Crei)!

It was robbery but you always felt the Czechs would score if they somehow managed one shot while the Swiss wouldn’t if they pressured all day and Sverk nicked it with little over 10 minutes to go while the Swiss were denied a penalty, hit the bar when it was easier to hit the target The Swiss went home quietly, just as they were through the contest.

RAMSEY - WHY DID CITY STICK AND NOT TWIST??

It's the question every Cardiff City fan has been asking and has either got confused or angry about.

£5M for a teenager with barely 20 games behind him is a fantastic deal but then you recall the fees well in excess of £10M that Southampton got for fellow Welshman Gareth Bale and also Theo Walcott which, right or wrong, seems to be a yardstick to use.

City had at least 6 Premiership clubs chasing Ramsey and bids were flying in so why, when that oprocess was hot and active, did they just agree to sell at £5M when there was every indication that bids would go higher again?

The fact that the moment City first accepted Manchester United's bid of £5M, three more clubs in Arsenal, Liverpool and Everton matched in within 24 hours shows that he was undervalued and sold too cheaply.

Ridsdale doesn't come out of this looking good - three of the big four clubs were at the table and we showed them our full hand. I hope he explains why he did this as, maybe there are reasons. Right now however, City fans will feel let down.

Of course, there's also the small matter of any fee only being worthwhile if it's significantly reinvested in the team and there's been scant evidence of that in recent years.

CITY WANT HOWARD (Steve not Brian)

Dave Jones has not proven himself to be the best judge of strikers for Cardiff City - in fact, Michael Chopra apart, his record is quite horrific - so Bluebirds wait with baited breath and panic to see what he has in store for us this coming season.

Will he re-sign Robbie and Jimmy even though many think it's best to go separate ways with both and just who are the new forwards he wants?

One of his key targets now emerging is Derby veteran Steve Howard, a player he has chased and failed to get almost since arriving at Ninian Park. But would he do the business now? The big man has been a hit at this level and certainly leads the line and adds goals in a way that Thommo can't but at 32, has he still got the attributes needs if City are to push on?

Jones' other targets are reports to be Chopra, Eastwood and Jason Roberts, all previously covered in this blog.

FORDE MOTORS INTO THE 'WALL

Cardiff City goalkeeper David Forde has today signed a two year contract for League One side Millwall.

Signed by The Bluebirds 18 minths ago, he never fitted in at City and never really suggested he was competent enough to be a leading Championship keeper as required to replace Neil Alexander.

Completely out of the reckoning at Ninian Park this season, Forde found his level and did very well in two loan spells at Luton and Bournemouth which brought him to the attention of Millwall and even Scottish Premier side Aberdeen but Sarf London it is for Fode and good luck to him.

LIVE IN HAWAII?? THEN HOLIDAY IN CARDIFF !!

http://www.newswales.co.uk/?section=Tourism&F=1&id=14269

What a bizarre story that Hawaiians are being recommended Cardiff as one of 8 places to visit around the globe. I'm quite sure most Hawaiians think for themselves and won't be doing that although I suppose the Hawiian restaurant in City Road will be a top drawe for them!

CARDIFF computer to explain all about the Universe?

True stroy too ... not the ramblings of someone after several pints of Brains Dark!

How a Cardiff computer could solve the mystery of the universeic Wales

The Race to sign Ramsey - Two becomes Four, it may yet be more

What a crazy 5 months in the life of Aaron Ramsey, not quite yet 17 and a half.

Since getting his Cardiff City full debut in January, he's had 20 games for City, been the youngest ever Welsh Under 21, called into the senior squad and been in a F.A. Cup Final and now has every big club in the land rushing to want to hand over multi-millions to Cardiff City to sign the lad. Talk about having the world at your feet.

Yesterday it was revealed that Manchester United and Arsenal had agreed a fee with Cardiff City. United were quick to jump the gun making an announcement that the player was on his way to Old T. Today, they've announced they've agreed terms with the player. Ramsey and his family are believed to be Manchester United fans and it still seems certain he'll sign for the Premiership and European Champions who were the first to show interest and would look after him well.

However Rambo will speak at Arsenal too before committing and now will be adding the Mersey duo of Liverpool and Everton to his list as both today agreed the same fee with City, thought to be between £5M and £6M as a package. Spurs may yet do the same.

This could drag on for another week or more but it's only right Ramsey speaks to all and takes his time making a life changing decision. Not quite the choices I had at his age!

NOW THTA'S WHAT I CALL A CHIP PAN FIRE - CARDIFF O'NEILL'S BLAZE COSTS £1M

Guess they'll be careful in future then!


From tonight's Echo

£1m up in smoke after city blaze

Many traders burnt by pub chip-pan fire

WHY CAN'T WE KEEP OUR KIDS? My reaction to the Ramsey Sale

Cardiff City accepting bids to sell their 'jewel in the crown' Aaron Ramsey has understandably met with some dismay and anger amongst the Bluebirds faithful with some animosity towards Ridsdale and Jones who seem to have been openly encouraging the sale in the media as has happened with several high profile departures.

The sale of any fan favourite always produces this style of reaction, the angst only increasing as we're selling star kids before we've really had much chance to appreciate them although, if Manchester United buy him (as seems increasingly likely), then there is a likelihood we'll see him back for Ninian Park's bow on-loan for the season.

On a personal level, I was more annoyed about past sales than this one simply as, even if we did court his sale, Rambo's high profile existence in our FA Cup run brought him to the nation's attention anyway and City are powerless when the big four come knocking and just about any Premiership side for that matter.

If Man United want any Championship player, no club can stand in their way. You tell me the last time that didn't happen?
What does frustrate though is that we have an Academy supposedly in existence to produce Cardiff City stars of the future when, in reality, it seems to be the football equivalent of a dog breeder. I'm really not comfortable with this.

I'd love Joe Ledley to stay but if/when he ever leaves this club, we've seem him give a few years sterling service to City. A great Academy product who served the club brilliantly. That should be the standard-bearer but it's very much the exception.

Losing Cameron Jerome after 1 season and Chris Gunter plus Ramsey after 20 games and all of them while still teenagers does feel like we, as fans, are being robbed.

Of course, there's also the small matter of these players disappearing for mega-money without feeling it's ever been sufficiently re-invested in the football side which is why we've been treading mid-table water for 5 years back in the Championship amongst other reasons.

RAMBO in the News

The Western Mail reports with this morning's reaction to the Ramsey probable transfer from Cardiff City to Manchester United ... or Liverpool ... or Arsenal ... or Spurs!
Premier big guns in battle for Ramsey
It’s up to the kid now, says Jones


Other Reports
Big guns gather to swoop for Aaron RamseyTimes Online

United agree fee for Cardiff starlet RamseyAFP

Man United reaches agreement with CardiffThe Canadian Press

Can't imagine Chris Moyles trying this

Blimey, wonderful Radio 1 eh?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/7433329.stm

A TYPICAL KAIRDIFF REACTION to the O'NEILL'S FIRE

From the BBC website - it's almost like Viz Letters!


Went for a walk at lunch time to Borders book store to get a book, saw all the staff milling about outside.Went further up to Waterstones and saw the same thing.The cloud of smoke then gave the situation away, but i think the staff in Borders a good 300+ metres away are having a slighty to cheeky fag break. Annoyingly havent got my book.Hope nobodies been hurt.chris l, cardiff
It took us a while to realise there was a fire blazing down the street. The Hayes is constantly full of smoke and debris at the moment with all the construction work going on opposite us.. ashli todd, cardiff


I work in a marketing company about 100 metres from the fire, and we were all evacuated, and the smoke was unbearable and stang our eyes. hannah michaels, cardiff, wales


We're in the cinema a couple of streets away and can still smell the smoke inside the auditoriums.Emma, Cardiff


...and there was I looking forward to bangers and mash at O'Neills this afternoonRobin Friday, Cardiff, Wales


Is the pet shop in Cardiff market ok? I hope the animals have all been evactuated and nobody forgot them!Ernie J, Cardiff, Wales


Sat in work literally 100 meteres away from O'Neils and went to walk to town for lunch and saw the smoke pourng out of the windows of'neils, didnt expect to see that, hope everyone is fine but put a bit of excitement into a sleepy cardiff day.Alex, Cardiff


Is the pasty shop ok?Pete,


I got caught in the smoke so bad during my lunchbreak, it choked my throat and burned my eyes ... when I returned to work, everyone told me how badly I smelt because of the smoke, so I had to go and buy a new shirt ... gutted!Gareth, Cardiff


the smell was horrible and the smoke was like fog.there was no roof on o'neills and fire men was trying to blow the fire out but im glad no one was hurt.the fire nearly burned the market and im glad it didnt thank god every one was okgemma leigh mccarthy, cardiff wales

CARDIFF'S BURNING (Anyone waiting for chips?)

Amazing scenes in Cardiff today as one of it's best known pubs, O'Neill's (the smaller one of the two venues in the city centre) was burned down follwoing what is believed to have been a chip fat fire.

Formerly known as The New Market Tavern, the quaint venue is St John's Square has always been popular for those looking for a quiet drink and it's a place I frequent about once a month.

The links below take you to the story and show some of the pictures that greeted the lucnhtime crowd and which also saw several nearby shops close including Central Market and Howells departement store.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/7433542.stm

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_pictures/7433761.stm

RAMBO SOLD ... but fianl destinatination and date to be decided by the player

It's been several weeks in the making and it has always been obvious it was simply when rather than if but today came confirmation that Cardiff City have agreed to sell prodigy Aaron Ramsey.

What remains to be confirmed is where Rambo will eventually go as The Bluebirds have announced that they have accepted two bids for the player who is free to talk to both and decide what he wishes.

Manchester United have possibly jumped the gun by announcing on their official website that they have agreed a deal with City and are talking terms with Rambo and undergoing a full medical with the Caerphilly born 17 yr old who has just 22 games under his belt. They remain red hot favourites and are City's preferred choice of sale since their package deal - thought to be worth upto £6 Million - includes allowing Ramsey to stay with City for 2008/09 as a loan player. For that reason, most City fans will be hoping this move goes ahead too.

It is, however, far from concluded since the other club who have had a bid accepted are believed to be Arsenal so Ramsey and his representatives will see them too. The Gunners believe he would get first team exposure next season so would not loan him to City. And City are bracing themselves for Liverpool and Spurs are matching the accepted bids which may yet turn it into a four team tug-of-war.

It's good business for City who are continuing what now seems to be custom of selling its biggest star for substantial sums every summer with the sequence being Earnshaw, Jerome, Chopra, Ramsey. It doesn't feel right that we lose our best produced talents like Gunter and Ramsey at such an early age and, in both cases, after barely 20 games for the club but that's how it is.

Whether it's good business for the team all depends on whether Dave Jones is now given money to spend and that's been painfully absentafter other recent big money sales.

To have the biggest clubs fighting over Ramsey is testimony to his impact and potential and it's hard to argue it represents great business for City even if some believe the package should be far higher bearing in mind the fees agreed for Walcott and Bale in recent times.

BBC announcement
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/cardiff_city/7433277.stm

Cardiff City official website announcement
http://www.cardiffcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10335~1322884,00.html

Manchester United official website announcement

http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid={B4CEE8FA-9A47-47BC-B069-3F7A2F35DB70}&newsid=6610831

BYFIELD - Wanted by 4, now down to 2 including City?

Byfield ... unwanted by Bristol City, Jamelia and Cardiff City supporters!

Today's Sun is reporting that the "race" to sign Wurzle discard Darren Byfield is now between Sheffield Wednesday and Cardiff City.

Whether it's gossip without foundation or a genuine push, it seems to have left City fans completely uunderwhelmed. Nobody on CardiffCity.com has shown any interest in it and the majority are hoping someone else takes him.

Although still early days in the summer recruitment programme, it is worrying that the club make all the noises yet again about a Premiership push,. backing the manager with money and more that our key hinted striking targets are going elsewhere while the ones we seem close to getting are Fowler, Hasselbaink and Byfield who collectively won't offer City a fantastic quantity of goals and, arguably, appearances either.

Ex-City player news

It's the rarest of days - no news stories about Aaron Ramsey - but instead comes news of two former Bluebirds.

Matt Green, released by Cardiff City at the end of the season having spent most of last term on loan elsewhere, has signed for Conference side Torquay United and good luck to him.

Meanwhile, there are rumours in the Black Country that Mick McCarthy is looking to take Chris Gunter on loan from Spurs for a season. How come Wolves are getting all the promising young Welsh talent? Hennessey, Edwards, Vokes, Eastwood ... the list is growing it seems.

LOCKETT THE POCKET ROCKET

There's been so much big boxing news recently, the fact that a Welshman is going to USA to fight one of the hottest fighters around is his own backyard somehow seems to have gone unnoticed.

I've watched Lockett fight live a few times and he's very good but doesn't strike me as world-class or able to beat Pavil who is some fighter but I like his attitude here so Good Luck to him.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/boxing/7429862.stm

LATEST NEW STADIUM PICS

These aren't taken by me and I'm unsure who shot them (but thanks anyway) but I've attached these as the new stadium is literally developing and growing by the day as these shots taken last week will show.

http://picasaweb.google.com/3rdday60/City_Stadium_Late_May

A VISIT TO ST. FAGANS

With Summer still on hold, plans for a long day away were curtailed and we visited St. Fagans today. Just as well as the weather did the same trick it has for a few days - promising in the morning but then cloud and light rain.

St Fagans is always worth a visit as it doesn't change much but you tend to find things you hadn't noticed before. The fact it's free means it's good value too - still cost me lucnh for the family though!

There were plenty of activities on site today so it was interesting to see some of the carvings and wooden machines being produced as well as the old houses and with it being a long week, it works up a fair appetite too.

Recommended!

http://www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/stfagans/

INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY: HOLLAND 2 WALES 0

It was Men against Boys and that's exactly how it proved too as The Dutch strolled around but still comprehensively worked over Wales' young guns in Rotterdam.

Holland are on their way to Euro'2008 and amongst the favourites to win the tournament with players wanting to prove a point. Wales, by contrast, are at the end of a long season and minus virtually all their established stars and relying on kids with the average age of the side barely over 21.

Holland won it with a goal either side of half-time and could have had more. Wales huffed, puffed but mainly hung in there with only Freddie Eastwood firing a shot at goal in the entire 90 minutes.

However that scoreline is respectable and you'd hope the boys learned from it. Joe Ledley, now a permanent name on the teamsheet, played his part but surprisingly, Aaron Ramsey did not feature when he was widely expectly to get a bow so appears to have been taken to Iceland and Holland simply for the experience.

Vid of the Day - ELVIS COSTELLO SOLO

Elvis Costello performing one of his later tunes - The Scarlet Tide (from The Delivery Man album) - on ukelele. Excellent performance that enriches the song.

HOLLAND 2 WALES 0 - Media Match Reports

ONE - NIL

BBC report with video interviews by John Toshack and Craig Bellamy

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/7426243.stm

Bellamy - Wales must learn

Sky News

HOLLAND v WALES MIN-BY-MIN

Sportinglife.com

Holland 2 Wales 0

Sportinglife.com

Robben squeezes a shot past Wales's Wayne Hennessey. Photograph ...

guardian.co.uk

Holland sink ragged Wales

Sky News

Robben, Sneijder see off Wales in Dutch tune-up

SoccerNews.com - http://www.soccernews.com

Holland 2 Wales 0

South Wales Argus Latest sport - http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk

ANOTHER STRIKER LINKED TO CITY

Darren Byfield is the latest striker whose name has been mentioned in dispatches as being a Cardiff City target.

Byfield has never quite hit the heights in his career and, in recent times, has been better known for dating then being dumped by pop star Jamelia.

He has just been released by Bristol City where he was leading scorer - with just 8 goals- in their epic season which ended in Championship play-off final defeat but was a bit part player and many City fans will remember having a 90 minute slanging match with him when the 31 year old warmed up as sub in the fixture between the clubs at Ashton Gate last December.

Cardiff are not the only ones sniffing though. At least three other Championship sides are believed to be have been in touch.

HOLLAND 2 WALES 0 video highlights

Holland - Wales 2-0 (Full Highlights)

RAMSEY'S BACK IN THE NEWS ... after 24 hours off!

Today's News of the World and Sunday Mirror have basically re-hashed the Premiership's biggest clubs all chasing Rambo but have significantly suggested a deal could be completed in the next 48 hours after Aaron returned from international duty and his likely senior debut in Holland later today.

Prem clubs demand it so here it is - bring me the head of Aaron Ramsey!

Rather than a bidding war developing, the newspapers are suggesting the clubs are all offering about £5M - I'd be shocked if we let him go at that value when you consider prices paid for the likes of Bale, Walcott etc - and a deal may hinge on who pays the mopst upfront with Manchester United favourites and they're willing to let him stay on loan for Cardiff City next season.

More news tomorrow, no doubt.

Penarth Runs Out of Celebrities

So they've asked Ridders to do the honours instead. Worthy show and cause though.

Bluebirds chairman to open exhibition

CARDIFF CITY Chairman Peter Ridsdale opens a Penarth fundraising art show on Monday.