Talking to media after Cardiff City's 1-1 private friendly in The Algarve with Vitoria de Setubal, Dave Jones spoke of his frustrations and hopes in trying to bring new players, strikers particularly, to the club.
After a summer in which he landed the promising Ross McCormack but has failed so far to bring in a line leader or big name striker with main target Kris Boyd proving impossible, Darren Bent and Robbie Fowler agreeing to sign then walking away, a legal battle underway with Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink, an anticipated loan of Ched Evans fail too amongst others, DJ has now revealed City have also lost out in bids for Watford's Darius Henderson and Wigan's Marlon King - but both of these were becuase City's offers weren't sufficent.
On Henderson, of whom Jones is a known fan and who scored a double in Watford's win at Ninian Park last term, the gaffer commented that "“We made a bid ... but the price went too high." On Marlon King who has struggled the past couple of seasons but is a talent, DJ added, "We simply can’t afford the fee plus his Premiership-level wages".
So on the search goes with Peter Ridsdale talking of trawling the globe for the right man (i.e. someone we can afford and who wants to come here) and Jones concluding, "We will get the players we need.".
The kick-off countdown clock keeps ticking ... ... ...
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Saturday, July 19, 2008
FRIENDLY RESULT: VITORIA de SETUBAL 1 CARDIFF CITY 1
Cardiff City's third friendly of the season but their first with the full squad together ended in a 1-1 draw in a private game in Portugal this morning.
The hosts - who finished 6th in Portgal's 16 team Division One (and not 4th as Dave Jones likes to claim) - started the better and opened the scoring on 14 minutes with a sitter after an initial shot hit the post.
The match had a 10:30a.m. start but in temperatures still reckoned to be in the mid-80's, it was still a hot workout for the boys.
City, however, improved as the game progressed before equalising in the second period throgh a magnificent Steve Thompson striker, Thommo almost snatching a late winner too. Mark Kennedy and Tony Capaldi had their first outings of the season, Peter Whittingham was absent was a niggle but 16 players a run out.The Bluebirds head into Algarve Cup action against Guinmares and Celtic in the coming week while Setubal face more British friendly opposition with Sunderland and Norwich heading over for pre-season training.
Wales Online match report has more details:
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2008/07/19/bluebirds-battle-the-heat-to-secure-draw-91466-21370573/
COUNTRIFIED DEVO
Picked this up from the Devo forum (http://groups.msn.com/SPUDTALK).
A Spanish country rock group with the excellent name of Redneck Cassanovas have a myspace forum with 4 very listenable tunes including a cover of DEVO's Beautiful World. Well worth a listen while working away on your pc.
http://www.myspace.com/rdnckcom
A Spanish country rock group with the excellent name of Redneck Cassanovas have a myspace forum with 4 very listenable tunes including a cover of DEVO's Beautiful World. Well worth a listen while working away on your pc.
http://www.myspace.com/rdnckcom
WENGER HINTS RAMSEY COULD BE KEY TO ARSENAL
Some interesting comments by Wenger about Rambo who, if he gets games at Arsenal, will have obviously made the right personal move over Man United and a season back with City.
Note how Wenger sees him as a central midfielder, a contradiction to Dave Jones strange quote that he didn't see him as strong enough to play that role.
Friday, July 18, 2008
RANGERS STILL WNAT LOOVENS BUT TELL CITY TO FORGET BOYD
Rangers boss Walter Smith despite yet making any official bid or enquiry to Cardiff City according to some went public yesterday over his interest in Cardiff City centre-half Glenn Loovens.
If some City fans were warming to a swap and reluctantly losing Loovens for Boyd, the message is Forget It. Smith confirmed he is not allowing the player to go while sources in Scotland say Kris Boyd himself has nil interest in moving to Wales.
It is believed, though, they Rangers may dangle the carrot of another Rangers striker Daniel Cousin but this may hit problems too as Cousin has refused to accept a new contract in Scotland, his terms apparently are well beyond anything City would consider.
Denying no contact with City, Smith said: “We have been making enquiries – and Glenn is a player who has been recommended to us. We are looking to bring in another central defender and we have had a look at Loovens. That is where we are at this stage. We have not taken things further, but we want to strengthen our squad.”
Rangers want a new centre half by next Thursday in order to register for Champions League football so need to act fast.
On Boyd, Smith commented: “I don’t want to let Kris Boyd leave Rangers. I have said that from day one. We have a few strikers here and I am sure one or two will go, but not Boyd. He is under contract and is remaining with Rangers.”
The next move still belongs to Rangers while City will continue to play hardball simply becuase they don't have to sell by next week. However they also won't want start of season plans thrown into chaos. Who will give on this one first?
If some City fans were warming to a swap and reluctantly losing Loovens for Boyd, the message is Forget It. Smith confirmed he is not allowing the player to go while sources in Scotland say Kris Boyd himself has nil interest in moving to Wales.
It is believed, though, they Rangers may dangle the carrot of another Rangers striker Daniel Cousin but this may hit problems too as Cousin has refused to accept a new contract in Scotland, his terms apparently are well beyond anything City would consider.
Denying no contact with City, Smith said: “We have been making enquiries – and Glenn is a player who has been recommended to us. We are looking to bring in another central defender and we have had a look at Loovens. That is where we are at this stage. We have not taken things further, but we want to strengthen our squad.”
Rangers want a new centre half by next Thursday in order to register for Champions League football so need to act fast.
On Boyd, Smith commented: “I don’t want to let Kris Boyd leave Rangers. I have said that from day one. We have a few strikers here and I am sure one or two will go, but not Boyd. He is under contract and is remaining with Rangers.”
The next move still belongs to Rangers while City will continue to play hardball simply becuase they don't have to sell by next week. However they also won't want start of season plans thrown into chaos. Who will give on this one first?
Thursday, July 17, 2008
NEW STADIUM & RETAIL PARK UPDATE
For those of you interested in the developments that go with the new stadium which is now bowl-shaped and growing by the day, here's something for you to read over your next sandwich or cuppa.
ScS to open store at Cardiff City retail development
WalesOnline - United Kingdom
Incidentally if, like me, you're far more interested in the new stadium itself, then this website shows you the latest pictures and has a live webcam.
http://www.cardiffcitystadium.co.uk/
ScS to open store at Cardiff City retail development
WalesOnline - United Kingdom
Incidentally if, like me, you're far more interested in the new stadium itself, then this website shows you the latest pictures and has a live webcam.
http://www.cardiffcitystadium.co.uk/
DANGERMOUSE STAYS
It been such a poor few weeks for Cardiff City and Peter Ridsdale that news of a player signing a contract to stay is worthy of official website release and some celebration amongst City fans but who can blame them when the player is SuperKev.With Cardiff City now away at pre-season training camp in Portugal, it has been confirmed that the Championship's best defender (my view!) and my Facebook friend(!), Kevin McNaughton, had signed the new contract offer and will stay with City for the forseeable future.
Four key City players are out of contract next summer and have been offered new terms but McNaughton is the first to sign. We know Glenn Loovens is holding out in favour of a move. The other two players are Roger Johnson and Paul Parry who have both agreed to sign but haven't yet completed full negotiations. City better pin them down soon.
LOOVENS / BOYD "SWAP" STALLING
There's a game of hardball at play between Cardiff City and Rangers over the Scottish side wanting Glenn Loovens and City desiring their main summer target Kris Boyd (but does Boyd want City?).Cardiff City recently bid £2.5M for Boyd and value Loovens at £3M so, in their eyes, it should be Boyd and a cash adjustment in City's favour ... although I'd hazard a guess they'd take a straight swap.
Rangers, however, want Loovens and Peter Ridsdale to pay £1M extra to get Boyd.
The added dimensions are that City will be forced to sell Loovens if he continues to refuse to sign a new contract offer on the table but Rangers have a more pressing deadline as they need Loovens' signature by next Thursday (July24) if he is to feature in Champions League action and with only a couple of centre-halves on the books, the Scots must have a new face.
Their initial target, Danny Shittu, may still be in the picture too as Rangers agreed a lesser fee of £1.5M for his signature but the deal broke down over the player's excessive personal terms but Shittu has since gone public saying he is hoping talks can resurrect and he would like to join them.
Let's see what the next epidsode brings.
CHOPS AWAY!
Unfortunately not a headline that the prodigal Bluebirds son, Michael Chopra, is on his way back to NP Towers buut a Daily Mirror "showbiz" release that ex-Cardiff City hitman Chops marriage is breaking down after just 4 weeks with talk of problems starting the morning after their wedding night and a honeymoon that ended early.It seems a pity as Chops and his 'wife' Heather met while at school so have been together for several years.
Some City fans have remarked - tongue firmly in cheek - that one of them must be missing South Wales ... let's hope it's not Heather!
Link to Mirror story
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
BENT SIGNS FOR BIRMINGHAM
After announcing his signature for Cardiff City at the weekend, the deal blew up in Peter Ridsdale's face as Darrent Bent failed to arrive in South Wales for his medical and told the club he wanted to talk to Birmingham where he preferred to be based.
That transfer was rumoured to be in jeopardy over Birmingham initially offering lesser terms than Cardiff but it was always suspected that would sort itself out and so it has.
Time to move on ... not a great experience for Ridsdale, Cardiff City or its supporters but it may be a lucky escape. As disappointed and angry as we may have been by events, there was a distinct underwhelming feeling when Bent's name was first mentioned - a striker whose scoring record isn't really much better than Thommo's!
That transfer was rumoured to be in jeopardy over Birmingham initially offering lesser terms than Cardiff but it was always suspected that would sort itself out and so it has.
Time to move on ... not a great experience for Ridsdale, Cardiff City or its supporters but it may be a lucky escape. As disappointed and angry as we may have been by events, there was a distinct underwhelming feeling when Bent's name was first mentioned - a striker whose scoring record isn't really much better than Thommo's!
DATAROCK EP remixed by DEVO
Datatock, the Scandinavian computer indie disco outfit, who released one of my favourite albums of 2007 have a new download E.P. being released newxt month which includes DEVO remixes.
The group readily admit to being heavily influenced by DEVO (although it would appear to be their latest synth led efforts than the early quirky guitar-led blasts) and Jerry Casale has expressed his mutual appreciation of their wrk so I can imagine he was specifically behind the remixes.
More details here:
http://www.pluginmusic.com/news/archive.php?id=3408
The group readily admit to being heavily influenced by DEVO (although it would appear to be their latest synth led efforts than the early quirky guitar-led blasts) and Jerry Casale has expressed his mutual appreciation of their wrk so I can imagine he was specifically behind the remixes.
More details here:
http://www.pluginmusic.com/news/archive.php?id=3408
MONARCH of the GLENN - Loovens to Rangers?
Today’s Daily Express are reporting that talks have taken place between Scottish SPL side Rangers and Cardiff City over The Bluebird’s commanding centre-half Glenn Loovens with the value reckoned to be circa £3M.
Rangers have been trying to snag Danny Shittu from QPR but that deal, valued at about £1.5M, has stalled by player greed with Shittu asking for a reported £25,000 a week so the Glasgow giants have turned their attention to Loovens.
Glenn has been offered a new and improved 2 yrs contract extension by City with his present deal expiring next summer but is holding out with a view to moving to the Premiership, his interest aroused by rumours of new boys Hull City and Stoke City showing interest in him but no bid has yet to materialise.
City’s failure to tie him to a new contract would see his value decrease over the season and mean he could walk away for nothing next summer so they may be forced to deal now. The SPL may not be as glamorous but Rangers offer the attractive carrot of Champions League football which may well appeal to the Dutchman.
There is no doubt Cardiff City are a better defensive side when Loovens plays – the stats of points gained and fewer points conceded bear overwhelming testimony to that. The centre-half partnership of Loovens and Roger Johnson is pivotal in the City side and probably the best in the Championship. Losing Loovens on top on Aaron Ramsey would be yet another bodyblow to City fans particularly when we seem unable to bring in adequate replacements or improvements but that’s the game these days.
Cardiff, apparently, have tried to use the talks top broker another move for original striking target Kris Boyd but Rangers have refused again to sell according to the Express but this morning’s Western Mail believes a ‘swap’ involving Loovens, Boyd and some cash adjustment may still be possible. Another linked target at Rangers, their forward Cousins, is apparently also being dismissed, partly due to the player’s unrealistic contract demands.
This appears to be a story that will develop – watch this space.
Glenn has been offered a new and improved 2 yrs contract extension by City with his present deal expiring next summer but is holding out with a view to moving to the Premiership, his interest aroused by rumours of new boys Hull City and Stoke City showing interest in him but no bid has yet to materialise.
City’s failure to tie him to a new contract would see his value decrease over the season and mean he could walk away for nothing next summer so they may be forced to deal now. The SPL may not be as glamorous but Rangers offer the attractive carrot of Champions League football which may well appeal to the Dutchman.
There is no doubt Cardiff City are a better defensive side when Loovens plays – the stats of points gained and fewer points conceded bear overwhelming testimony to that. The centre-half partnership of Loovens and Roger Johnson is pivotal in the City side and probably the best in the Championship. Losing Loovens on top on Aaron Ramsey would be yet another bodyblow to City fans particularly when we seem unable to bring in adequate replacements or improvements but that’s the game these days.
Cardiff, apparently, have tried to use the talks top broker another move for original striking target Kris Boyd but Rangers have refused again to sell according to the Express but this morning’s Western Mail believes a ‘swap’ involving Loovens, Boyd and some cash adjustment may still be possible. Another linked target at Rangers, their forward Cousins, is apparently also being dismissed, partly due to the player’s unrealistic contract demands.
This appears to be a story that will develop – watch this space.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
PETER RIDSDALE'S MESSAGE TO THE MASSES
Ridsdale created the expectation by announcing Bent's signing and talking openly to the media about it all over the weekend but doesn't seem to be enjoying the flak he's now having to take now it's all gone tits up.
However the tone is that City will bring in more players but it's another season where all the big targets appear to have been missed.
Peter's Official Website Statement
BENT BACK TO SQUARE ONE?
Although not yet officially confirmed, it appears Marcus Bent's preference to snub an agreement to sign for Cardiff City in order to talk to Birmingham City may have backfired as he has been unable to agreed terms with the Midlanders.
According to Charlton Athletic forums, Bent - a player they don't want and can't wait to get rid of - is returning to the South London club and will join up with the squad as they fly out to Germany for pre-season training and games tomorrow.
On the face of it, Bent has lost out as he is clearly not wanted at Charlton and may be set to sit it out in the reserves but I get the funny feelings something will be sorted out either with Brum or by another club stepping in.
Just like the Robbie Fowler episode, Bent's snub may well turn out to be another lucky escape for City.
According to Charlton Athletic forums, Bent - a player they don't want and can't wait to get rid of - is returning to the South London club and will join up with the squad as they fly out to Germany for pre-season training and games tomorrow.
On the face of it, Bent has lost out as he is clearly not wanted at Charlton and may be set to sit it out in the reserves but I get the funny feelings something will be sorted out either with Brum or by another club stepping in.
Just like the Robbie Fowler episode, Bent's snub may well turn out to be another lucky escape for City.
Monday, July 14, 2008
CARDIFF CITY OFFICIAL WEBSITE CONFIRMS BENT DEAL IS DEAD
CARDFF CITY'S OPFFICIAL SITE GIVES THEIR VERSION OF EVENTS WITH PETER RIDSDALE STAYING QUIET AT THE MOMENT - see link below
CITY & RIDSDALE EMBARRASSED YET AGAIN AS BENT TAKES IT UP THE BRUM!
When Peter Ridsdale sanctioned an official website announcement last Saturday evening stating that Marcus Bent - and I quote - "has SIGNED for the Bluebirds pending a medical on Monday" - I bet I wasn't the only one thinking it was premature and had a sneaky feeling Bent would snub us.
Sadly, that's how it has turned out.
In hindsight, the suspicion is rife that Peter Ridsdale following an immense amount of flak after rvelations regards his pay and bonuses and complete farces handling Hasselbaink and Fowler wanted to make amends and himself look good. So he jumped the gun by announcing Bent's signing 2 days ago before it was a done deal without any medical taking place or contracts being signed.
Peter Ridsdale has been in the game long enough to know that was an incredibly foolish - nay idiotic - thing to do and there was a chance it would bite him on the bum and that's how it appears to have turned out.
I always thought that with City going public like that, it gave Bent's agent and the player a last chance to get another deal fixed up and that;'s how it proved. It has transpired today that Marcus Bent failed to arrive in South Wales and, instead, has arranged a deal with Birmingham City instead.
Charlton manager Alan Pardew hinted yesterday that other clubs were sniffing after Bent so the warning signs were there while Peter Ridsdale entertained the media with talk of Bent being the missing link in the City side.
Ridsdale and Jones set themselves up for the fall, Ridsdale in particular is fast losing credibility with his public comments and he's brought it himself. Prat!
I wonder who will squirm the most - Peter Ridsdale when he has to explain away this latest piece of self-inflicted chaos or Cardiff City supporters having to listen to another set of excuses.
LEAVE MY POOR ROBBIE ALONE says DAVE JONES
City boss Dave Jones has made scathing comments about Cardiff City supporters expressing their angwer and dismay at the way Robbie Fowler has dumped the club where he verbally agreed to sign a new contract in favour of training only ahead of a possible short-term deal at Blackburn.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/cardiff-city-fc/2008/07/14/time-to-leave-robbie-alone-jones-tells-fowler-critics-91466-21334406/
Fowler: You expect me to wear this again? F**k that, I'm off!
On the one hand, I think Jones has a point. The CardiffCity.com messageboards have been awash with no holds barred flak towards Fowler, much of it coming from fans who didn't want him to be offered a new contract or to stay anyway. In that sense, their comments are contradictory and hypocritical.
On a personal level, I am delighted Fowler is off the club's books - even if it took him to leave City than the club to realise enough was enough.
However, the flip side of the argument is that DJ has failed to show any understanding why supporters should express their feelings on a poor episode and the behaviour of Fowler plus his agent. He may not agree with it but he should be realistic enough to appreciate why Cardiff City fans will have their fully justified views.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/cardiff-city-fc/2008/07/14/time-to-leave-robbie-alone-jones-tells-fowler-critics-91466-21334406/
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Bent signing for Cardiff City
CARDIFF CITY have announced the signing, subject to Monday medical, of Marcus Bent from Charlton Athletic for an undisclosed fee.
City were declined with a £1M bid for the player, apparently with £500k paid up front, last week so whether they have offered a higher price or more money in advance is a matter for speculation.
City were declined with a £1M bid for the player, apparently with £500k paid up front, last week so whether they have offered a higher price or more money in advance is a matter for speculation.
Marcus Bent and Gemma Atkinson
sunning themselves at Barry Island as the new Gavin and Stacey
(*ok, it's not Barry Island really)
It will be Bent's 11th club and the fee means the 30 yr old strong 6 foot striker will have been sold for a value of over £10M during his career. He is set to sign a 3 yr deal with City.
Most opinions are favourable as he is a strong hold up the ball player that City need as a pivotal point of attacks but chief grumble is that his goalscoring record, especially in recent years, is nothing to get excited about.
On loan at Premiership Wigan last season - a deal agreed after Charlton dropped out of that division - he notched 7 goals in 25 games plus 6 sub outings but that included a hat-trick and he has failed to score since last November - a run of 18 games. Prior to that, he scored just 4 times in 46 games for Charlton in the Prem and 7 in 38 (+ 17) sub outings with Everton.
However his record is much better than 1 in 3 at all previous clubs played for at this level including Ipswich, Sheffield United and Dave Jones will be hoping that's how it works with City.
Cardiff fans are also delighted as Bent is a favourite of the WAGS and is currently dating Gemma Atkinson. Doubt we'll see her eating a Clarks Pie on the Grange End but you never know!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Pre-season friendly: MERTHYR TYDFIL 1 CARDIFF CITY 3
While I was at Carmarthen, most City fans went to Penydarren Park, Merthyr. It's a bit closer to home - especially for the Valley Boys - and you're able to take your drink into the game.
Unfortunately, a few City young pups couldn't handle it and engaged in a drink throwing and then fighting contest against each other which led to a police presence and some arrests. Incredible.
As for the football, Cardiff City cruised to a 3-1 victory, nowhere near as satisfying in standards as Carmarthen but the object today is to develop fitness, nothing more.
City's side featured the rest of the first teamers in Peter Enckleman, Darren Purse, Roger Johnson, Riccy Scimeca, Darcy Blake and Joe Ledley plus first year pro Jon Brown and Academy boys. Joe Ledley played an hour, Thommo 80 minutes and the rest got a full 90.
Thommo set up JON BROWN to open the scoring on 25 minutes but Merthyr levelled when Peter Enckleman made another gaffe, this time Steins profited. THOMMO made it 2-1 at the interval after Brown's shot found him off the post.
Like Cramarthen, the second half was a non-event but City rounded off the afternoon when BILLY TAYLOR scored only 2 minutes after coming on as a late sub meeting a Darcy Blake cross.
Unfortunately, a few City young pups couldn't handle it and engaged in a drink throwing and then fighting contest against each other which led to a police presence and some arrests. Incredible.
As for the football, Cardiff City cruised to a 3-1 victory, nowhere near as satisfying in standards as Carmarthen but the object today is to develop fitness, nothing more.
City's side featured the rest of the first teamers in Peter Enckleman, Darren Purse, Roger Johnson, Riccy Scimeca, Darcy Blake and Joe Ledley plus first year pro Jon Brown and Academy boys. Joe Ledley played an hour, Thommo 80 minutes and the rest got a full 90.
Thommo set up JON BROWN to open the scoring on 25 minutes but Merthyr levelled when Peter Enckleman made another gaffe, this time Steins profited. THOMMO made it 2-1 at the interval after Brown's shot found him off the post.
Like Cramarthen, the second half was a non-event but City rounded off the afternoon when BILLY TAYLOR scored only 2 minutes after coming on as a late sub meeting a Darcy Blake cross.
Pre-season friendly
At Waun Dew. Carms
CARMARTHEN 0
CARDIFF CITY 5
Paul Parry (3)
Kelleher
Own goal
The Bluebirds opened their pre-season calendar, just as last year, by splitting the squad into two and heading to simultaneous games in Merthyr and Carmarthen. I got picked up by my brother fully expecting to head to Merthyr's Penydarren Park but he had other ideas and we were off to Y Dre to watch City's other game at Carmarthen. I'm glad I went as I'd been to Merthyr numerous times, Carmarthen was a new experience and it was a chance to see the City new boys and it was also the better encounter of the two.
It was almost as quick to reach Waun Dew as Merthyr - an hour even with police cameras - and cheaper too at just £6 for adults and £1 for kids (compared to £8/£3 at Merthyr), programmes were free as was car parking, hot dogs (with a double sausage) were £1 for the kids, no queues at the clubhouse bar and the added bonus of passing the City dressing room to get to the clubhouse bar. Others were watching the game from the beer garden of a nearby pub, presumably for free. As I came out of the bogs, I almost led the City team onto the pitch, it was that intimate.
Cardiff had all the new players on show except for Mark Kennedy who was absent. That's keeper Tom Heaton, centre half Darren Dennehy, left back Miguel Comminges and forward Ross McCormack. They were supplemented by Kevin McNaughton, Glenn Loovens, Steve McPhail, Gavin Rae, Peter Whittingham, Paul Parry and Academy player Rhys Kelleher. The bench consisted of another 7 Academy boys, all of whom got 2nd half playing time.
The weather was mild, some rain driving to the game held off, the ground was decent for its level with flat ground terracing on three sides, a smart pitchlength stand, a small but friendly clubhouse over the changing rooms and various portakabin buildings. The crowd was probably around 400 - just over half there to support City. Is it possible to have any greater contrast to the last City viewing at Wembley 7 weeks ago in the F.A. Cup Final and these surroundings next game?
While City took time to settle, Carmarthen were out of the traps and put everything into an opening 20 minute blitz. However they failed to convert that into shots on goal, a couple from distance were high and wide, and once that subsided, their threat had gone. In that spell however, the home side did put some good pass and play moves together and were enjoying some success in attacking City's braided left back Miguel Comminges who was quiet on the pitch and looked a little rusty as they won corners and got around or behind him a couple of times. Dennehy was strong in the middle while Loovens did what Loovens does and there was no passing McNaughton on the right, his Midnight Express number 1 all over haircut enough to put off anyone wanting to attack SuperKev!
The Carmarthen player who stood out for me though was one of their subs who was barely 5 foot and made me look a giant. I felt good! The corner-flag looked bigger than him. Rumours are he can only play for Carmarthen until November as he's needed by Snow White for panto afterwards.
The tide turned as McCormack, already showing well, won a free-kick which Whittingham placed towards top corner to be met by a flying save. After that, City's passing and movement shifted up a couple of gears and the home side couldn't deal with it. McPhail must have been enjoying looking up to see the runs Parry and McCormack were making and chances came after Parry was narrowly wide, McCormack hit a post and just missed while the Carmarthen keeper made a smart stop but then it was 4 goals in no time at all.
The opener was clever as McCormack played in PAUL PARRY and he rolled his effort across the keeper into a corner, the second goal saw Parry beat a challenge to find Academy man RHYS KELLEHER who showed no first touch all afternoon to this point but then finished exceedingly well. The third was a comedy OWN GOAL that Darren Purse would have been proud of. McNaughton's cross saw the keeper darting from near to far post while his centre-half ran the opposite direction and chested the ball into the empty nearside of goal. Then on half-time, PARRY grabbed his second with another good finish.
Half-time: Carmarthen 0 City 4
City declared at the interval and were always going to use Academy players and the full bench through the second half so the game lost its cohesion and flow. Even so, a few of the big names put in a good shift and some played the full 90. Can't really say any of the Academy kids stood out in the way Aaron Ramsey did this time last year at Merthyr, most of them looked like they should be tucked by 9pm.
PAUL PARRY got his hat-trick in completing the scoring to make it 5-0, a smart finish high into the top corner from 12 yards after being set up by McCormick. After that, there was still time for McCormack to test the keeper with a clever 20 yard effort, Whittingham to smash the bar and miss a sitter skying the ball over the bar but that was topped by goalkeeper turned striker Josh Magennis who found himself clear on goal yet almost hitting the corner flag with his close range effort, the ball did sit up as he fired. Enjoyed hearing him shout "**** off" to one of his team-mates taking the proverbial.
All of the new players acquitted themselves well for their first outing and showed promise to varying degrees. I'd summarise them as;
Tom Heaton - very little to do but kicked exceedingly well and long with the ball from his his hands, not as well with the ball on the floor, a good shouter and organiser. His size surprised me a little bearing in mind Dave Jones' known preference for big keepers. He is Neil Alexander dimensions, perhaps a touch shorter. His father came down to follow him and revealed his girlfriend is someone he pulled in his maths class at school. The things you learn from me!
Miguel Comminges - stands out with his braided hair but didn't stand out in the opening 25 as Carmarthen attacked his right side of defence and enjoyed some success. Looked a little off the pace but settled more as Carmarthen opening spell faded to nothing.
Darren Dennehy - he almost makes Roger Johnson look overweight. Slight but very tall and, like Johnson, puts himself about very well. Not very vocal for a centre half but definitely looked half decent.
Ross McCormack - probably the most impressive of the signing's on today's display in which he troubled Carmarthen throughout. Made excellent diagonal runs, always found space, tricky on the ball and able to/wanting to vary what he did. Someone commented how he reminded them of Paul Brayson which was a good shout. If City can get him a good strong striking partner, he could prove to be an excellent acquisition.
Final whistle blew and we were back in Cardiff by 5pm managing to pass Gavin Rae and Kevin McNaughton in their Audi and Merc suv's but blazed by Glenn Loovens who is a hell of a lot faster behind the wheel than he is on the pitch.
The City Targets That Got Away (assuming there was any merit in them at all)
It's sadly becoming all too familiar a story so little wonder some Cardiff City followers are openly questioning if it is a deliberate ploy by the club to hoodwink us into believing they're willing to splash the cash and are ambitious but bad luck prevents their plans rolling out.
The club seem quite happy to allow some targetted players to be revealed in the media, one or two of them will be the subject of supposedly significant bids yet City never seem to end up spending any money or capturing any of the targets. Still time to go but, for now, this are the players mentioned in dispatches.
Rangers declined a £2.5M bid for Kris Boyd, a player who himself turned down Risdale, Jones and City just two seasons ago in jumping to Rangers in the same style that Chris Killen replicated for Celtic last season. This time, Rangers declined the bid and City, despite suggestions otherwise, never raised their bid whilst the £2.5M kitty sees to have been misplaced too.
With Boyd out of the reckoning, City turned to his team-mate Daniel Cousin. A £1M fee was mentioned but there has been no confirmation any such bid was made or that City are progressing an enquiry.
All summer long, Michael Chopra and Ched Evans have been cited as loan targets. Chopra's still needed at Sunderland and appears to have been another 'red herring' while Cardiff are believed to be one of ten Championship sides chasing Evans. Sources say this remains very active but there has been only gossip, not news
Marcus Bent is the latest striking target. Cardiff have bid £1M for the striker who scored 7 on loan for Wigan in the Premiership last term on loan from Charlton but the Sarf Londoners want more and we wait to see if City do that.
Another media-trailed would be capture was Dutch midfield player Remco van der Schaaf. Peter Ridsdale only too happy to confirm Cardiff were close to capturing the man with Champions League experience. But after Cardiff turned up the heat, they quickly cooled it down talking about a major stumbling block. A couple of days later, the player signed a 3 year deal at mighty ... wait for it ... Burnley. Suspicions are that City didn't want to offer that length of contract but it doesn't look good yet again to trailblaze a player we lose to a lesser club.
Speculation also circulated that Cardiff were looking at the Crewe duo of midfielder Gary Roberts (£150,000) and promising striker Nicky Maynard (upto £2M) but, for once, Ridsdale moved to deny this rather than allow the stories to persist with a comment of "it is pure rubbish".
Meantime, one striker who many fans would like to see at Ninian Park as well as the player himself is Welsh international Freddy Eastwood. Cardiff were rumoured to have made enquiries about him and Wolves midfielder Jay Bothroyd but that has now fallen away with Jones also commenting with some arrogance, or perhaps confidence, "we're looking at better players than Eastwood".
What is clear is that Cardiff don't have the players in place yet that they'd like and probably need to sign at least one striker and two would be better before heading to pre-season camp in Portugal. They really need to move fast.
It remains to be seen whether Peter Ridsdale's latest quotes of City having just that by Tuesday comes to fruition. I don't think I'll be holding my breath over it.
Friday, July 11, 2008
FEELINGS OF RELIEF AND ANGER AS ROBBIE FOWLER SH*TS ON CARDIFF CITY FOR BLACKBURN
According to the dictionary, an ENIGMA is "a person of puzzling or contradictory character" while USELESS is "not serving the purpose or any purpose; unavailing or futile" and PROCRASTINATE translates as "To put off doing something, especially out of habitual carelessness or laziness".
GUESS YOU NOW KNOW MY FEELINGS ABOUT 12 MONTHS OF ROBBIE FOWLER AT CARDIFF CITY.
The media fell for it hook, line and sinker last summer with daily, the flattery of City being linked with an "audacious" move for such a player and, to be fair, many fans got sucked in too by "God" becomign a City player. If he's God, it only affirms why I'm a happy atheist who only worships at the Church of Ninian Park!
When Fowler eventually signed, far too late into pre-season and weeks of messing around, replica shirt sales with the name Fowler on the back were the ultimate fashion statement in Cardiff. Many fans, myself included, wanting to point out Fowler had been a player in decline - and injury - for 7 years since his mid-20's were stampeded and thought of as churlish.
Fowler had his debut in a pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad and could barely move, he showed one vintage touch and then went off injured and wasn't ready to start the season. He next showed up against Torquay and was always going to look classy in that company but it looked like Cardiff had 10 men playing competitive football and one - Fowler - who looked as if he was in a testimonial or Masters Football.
In September/October'07, Fowler had his one and only patch (temporary) of form as he scored doubles against a weakened West Brom in the Carling Cup and then against Preston in a live Sky game but two of them were penalties and his 6 goal tally for City featured 3 spot kicks. Fowler was injured again but did manage 10 minutes against Bristol City before Xmas, that was the last we saw of Robbie on the pitch for City.
While the overwhelming majority of fans had given up on him and hoped a severance deal would be sorted out - manager Dave Jones even attacked David Giles for having the temerity to suggest it in the media - The Bluebirds supplemented the £25k a week (upto that figure) reputedly being paid in wages for Fowler (even if the club were denying this) by sending him to Germany and America for radical career-saving treatement for injuries to both hips.
The club invested in Fowler like no other player but I doubt Fowler himself ever had any appreciation of it. At the season's end, supporters again felt it was time to cut ties and regard it as a failed gamble but, for the second summer running, the backdrop was a "will he, won't he" sign for City saga. Only Dave Jones and Peter Ridsdale seemed keen to keep him opening talks, meeting him in Dubai, offering a pay-as-you-play contract and then negotiating away in a manner that would not consider for anyone else.
His agent was as evasive as ever but insisted there was a deal to be done but you knew he would spin the dice until the very last second. Just yesterday, Dave Jones announced to the media that Fowler would be re-signing for City. He is also on record for saying he felt Robbie would offer us 20 goals this season ... please stop sniggering, especially as Fowler has not offered 20 games for most of the past 8 seasons!
I'm afraid Jones and Ridsdale were caught out and let down but their wanderlust for Fowler who later had an approach from Paul Ince to take a 1 year deal at Blackburn letting both down at a time when their stock is diminishing with unimpressive summer singings, no sign of spending as promised after last season's bonanza, the cock up over Hasselbaink's contract and revelations of Ridsdale's earning.
As for Robbie, in fairness, it's a good move and I couldn't care less he's left us. Good riddance in my mind, he gave us little so leaves with few thanks. The only question is why on earth did we allow ourselves to get messed around by someone clearly with no feelings whatsoever for this club and with so little to over over so many recent years?
Mugs'R'Us ... or them in the cases of Jones and Ridders.
GUESS YOU NOW KNOW MY FEELINGS ABOUT 12 MONTHS OF ROBBIE FOWLER AT CARDIFF CITY.
The media fell for it hook, line and sinker last summer with daily, the flattery of City being linked with an "audacious" move for such a player and, to be fair, many fans got sucked in too by "God" becomign a City player. If he's God, it only affirms why I'm a happy atheist who only worships at the Church of Ninian Park!
When Fowler eventually signed, far too late into pre-season and weeks of messing around, replica shirt sales with the name Fowler on the back were the ultimate fashion statement in Cardiff. Many fans, myself included, wanting to point out Fowler had been a player in decline - and injury - for 7 years since his mid-20's were stampeded and thought of as churlish.
Fowler had his debut in a pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad and could barely move, he showed one vintage touch and then went off injured and wasn't ready to start the season. He next showed up against Torquay and was always going to look classy in that company but it looked like Cardiff had 10 men playing competitive football and one - Fowler - who looked as if he was in a testimonial or Masters Football.
In September/October'07, Fowler had his one and only patch (temporary) of form as he scored doubles against a weakened West Brom in the Carling Cup and then against Preston in a live Sky game but two of them were penalties and his 6 goal tally for City featured 3 spot kicks. Fowler was injured again but did manage 10 minutes against Bristol City before Xmas, that was the last we saw of Robbie on the pitch for City.
While the overwhelming majority of fans had given up on him and hoped a severance deal would be sorted out - manager Dave Jones even attacked David Giles for having the temerity to suggest it in the media - The Bluebirds supplemented the £25k a week (upto that figure) reputedly being paid in wages for Fowler (even if the club were denying this) by sending him to Germany and America for radical career-saving treatement for injuries to both hips.
The club invested in Fowler like no other player but I doubt Fowler himself ever had any appreciation of it. At the season's end, supporters again felt it was time to cut ties and regard it as a failed gamble but, for the second summer running, the backdrop was a "will he, won't he" sign for City saga. Only Dave Jones and Peter Ridsdale seemed keen to keep him opening talks, meeting him in Dubai, offering a pay-as-you-play contract and then negotiating away in a manner that would not consider for anyone else.
His agent was as evasive as ever but insisted there was a deal to be done but you knew he would spin the dice until the very last second. Just yesterday, Dave Jones announced to the media that Fowler would be re-signing for City. He is also on record for saying he felt Robbie would offer us 20 goals this season ... please stop sniggering, especially as Fowler has not offered 20 games for most of the past 8 seasons!
I'm afraid Jones and Ridsdale were caught out and let down but their wanderlust for Fowler who later had an approach from Paul Ince to take a 1 year deal at Blackburn letting both down at a time when their stock is diminishing with unimpressive summer singings, no sign of spending as promised after last season's bonanza, the cock up over Hasselbaink's contract and revelations of Ridsdale's earning.
As for Robbie, in fairness, it's a good move and I couldn't care less he's left us. Good riddance in my mind, he gave us little so leaves with few thanks. The only question is why on earth did we allow ourselves to get messed around by someone clearly with no feelings whatsoever for this club and with so little to over over so many recent years?
Mugs'R'Us ... or them in the cases of Jones and Ridders.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
THIS BLOG IS ON HOLS
It's summer, the only news is rumours and it's time to enjoy the weather so this blog is taking a fortnight's rest with several beers, topless girls and a big bunch of grapes - how I wish!
Back around July 12 ... or so.
Bye for now Amigos.
Back around July 12 ... or so.
Bye for now Amigos.
CARDIFF CITY PLAYER NEWS
SIGNINGS
Nothing has yet materialised. Boyd of Rangers does not seem to be going any further, the player is likely to stay there or sign for a 'bigger' club.
City are talking to a midfielder with Champions League experience - expect huge disappointment when it turns out to be be someone from Cyprus or similar who featured as sub in one game!
NEW CONTRACTS
It would appear that Peter Whittingham has commited to a new 3 year deal and the club are also expecting Roger Johnson to do likewise. Rumours of a RJ summer injury may not be true then.
Three other players - Paul Parry, Glen Loovens and Kevin McNaughton - are currently mulling over contract offers, all believed to be for 2 years. The club seem reasonably confident all will commit. Still no news that Robbie Fowler - anyone remember him? - is taking a pay-as-you-play contract but is likely too.
LEAVERS
Still no takers for the likes of Willo Flood, Warren Feeney and Steve Thompson amongst others but news is that Jimmy Floyd-Hasslebaink is linked with the vacant manager's post at MK Dons although the club are expected to go for an experienced boss.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Welsh Artist of the Year 2008
Take a look at the winning entries in Welsh Artist of the Year. Got to admit I'm no major fan of art and I can see a Bonsai Tree wrapped in thread (the winner) has some merit but is it just me or these crap, some looking as if they could have been made by schoolkids??
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_pictures/7468109.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_pictures/7468109.stm
Saturday, June 21, 2008
CARDIFF CITY SET TO INCREASE BOYD OFFER (and other City Scottish rumours)
Having had a club record bid of £2.5M turned down for Kris Boyd, the striker who almost signed for City 2 years ago then jumped to Rangers instead, Scottish media are suggesting that Dave Jones and Peter Ridsdale are returning with an improved £3M, offer with the extra apparently coming from incentivised offers.Dave Jones seems very keen to land his target but Cardiff City now have a history of failing to land their public targets so many Bluebirds will treat, with some scepticism, club attempts to land the likes of Boyd, Ched Evans and Chopra until they are seen holding a City scarf over their heads holding their contracts. Each Dave Jones summer seems to see us linked with big names but we end up hitting the B or C list - Fowler and Hasselbaink being exceptions.
Let's see what develops particularly as newly promoted Premiership side Hull City seem set to move in too which means City wouldn't really be able to compete, such is football.
Glasgow Daily Record
In other news, City's Willo Flood and Robbie Fowler have both been linked, via the rumour mill of Setanta and 'In The Know' sorts in Scotland, with possible approaches from Celtic. With Flood having had an impressive season on loan at Dundee nited, I can understand that but surely any move for Fowler seems unlikely but they did express interest before he arrive at Ninian Park last summer. However, in a summer of a million and one rumours, don't believe anything unless it happens.
Friday, June 20, 2008
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE'S SUPPORTERS SURVERY 2008
The Football League has just published its Supporters Survey 2008.
The report compiles the views of the 40,316 supporters who took part in an on-line survey, over half of whom reppresented Championship clubs, exactly 900 of them declared themselves as Cardiff City supporters.
The research reveals that:
- Respondents attended an average of 16 home matches and 5 away matches each season.
- 72% of supporters believe that Football League matches provide good family entertainment.
- Supporters identified match atmosphere as the single most important aspect of the matchday experience.
- 58% of fans prefer to see their clubs midweek matches scheduled on Tuesday nights compared to the 36% that prefer Wednesdays.
- Fans identified players showing dissent or a lack of respect to match officials as the most important area for the football authorities to address in the area of Fair Play, with 29% of supporters believing this to be the case.
The report compiles the views of the 40,316 supporters who took part in an on-line survey, over half of whom reppresented Championship clubs, exactly 900 of them declared themselves as Cardiff City supporters.
The research reveals that:
- Respondents attended an average of 16 home matches and 5 away matches each season.
- 72% of supporters believe that Football League matches provide good family entertainment.
- Supporters identified match atmosphere as the single most important aspect of the matchday experience.
- 58% of fans prefer to see their clubs midweek matches scheduled on Tuesday nights compared to the 36% that prefer Wednesdays.
- Fans identified players showing dissent or a lack of respect to match officials as the most important area for the football authorities to address in the area of Fair Play, with 29% of supporters believing this to be the case.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
EURO'2008 GAME 25: QUARTER FINAL 1: GERMANY 3 PORTUGAL 2
The Germans, although not overly pressive, still proved too good and far too organised and brushed aside the Portuguese who have played good football but showed they have limitations.
I think most observers called it a 50/50 game but the Portuguese started the better without getting close on goal and then were hit by two goals in 5 minutes midway through the first half which was highly entertaining with quality on display from both sides.
Those goals came firstly from a superb move sweetly finished by Schweinsteiger and then poor defence gave Klos a free header on goal from a free-kick after Ronaldo let him go.
Portugal could have caved but took the game to the Germans with Deco and Ronaldo causing problems and got reward when Ronaldo, now getting behind the Germans, saw his shot saved by Lehman but turned home on the rebound by Gomez. Ronaldo missed eqaulising by a whisker on half-time and then Pepe header over in front of goal at the start of the second half.
The second period didn't match the first half intensity but Portugal always looked the likelier to score until the Germans won another free-kick and once again Portugal were undone by their own criminal defending, this time their keeper gifting Michael Ballack a free header on goal delighting his national manager watching in a box as he was banned from the touchline but agonising his new club boss, Scolari, who was coaching Portugal.
The Portuguese came again but never got sight of goal and thier distance shooting was hopeless but then came an 88th minute lifeline as sub Postiga headed home.
With 4 minutes added time, it was set for a Grandstand finish but the Germans held on comfortably. Great start to the quarter-finals opf what has been an excellent tournament.
Video highlights of this game and all others can be found at this BBC link:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/schedule_and_statistics/default.stm
WALES AND SCOTLAND RENEW TALKS TO JOINTLY HOST EURO'2016
THE FAW and the SFA (not Supper Furry Animals!) have held further talks with a view to jointly hosting the Euro'2016 finals.
With joint hosts Austria and Switzerland enjoying a successful championships now and more joint hosts in 2012, it does seem the way forward. It's also possibly the only way Wales and Scotland will reach a finals again!
Wales and Scotland plan Euro bid
BBC News
With joint hosts Austria and Switzerland enjoying a successful championships now and more joint hosts in 2012, it does seem the way forward. It's also possibly the only way Wales and Scotland will reach a finals again!
Wales and Scotland plan Euro bid
BBC News
JACKS vs CITY - NOW A SUNDAY SERVICE WITH SONGS OF PRAISE
This season's Swansea City vs Cardiff City Championship fixture, the first league clash between the Welsh rivals for 10 years, is being moved back a day to Sunday November 30th with a 11:30am kick-off and will also be televised live on Sky TV - what a treat for the viewers to watch and hear us lot going at it!
It was always believed this would happen once South Wales Police had their say and it is certain that it will be addionally confirmed as a coach-only "bubble" trip for Bluebirds followers. Police claims that one of the problems was that a Staurday game would clash with a Wales v Australia rugby international in Cardiff was probably of no major significance in truth. I can't even rememeber the last time a Cardiff v Swansea game had a bog-stand.
The question now is how many more Cardiff games will see their kick-off times or days changed for tv scheduling or police interference. I recall 5 games were moved before the season started and a few more during it. Even when we behave and get praised, City fans just cannot shake off the reputation tag.
It was always believed this would happen once South Wales Police had their say and it is certain that it will be addionally confirmed as a coach-only "bubble" trip for Bluebirds followers. Police claims that one of the problems was that a Staurday game would clash with a Wales v Australia rugby international in Cardiff was probably of no major significance in truth. I can't even rememeber the last time a Cardiff v Swansea game had a bog-stand.
The question now is how many more Cardiff games will see their kick-off times or days changed for tv scheduling or police interference. I recall 5 games were moved before the season started and a few more during it. Even when we behave and get praised, City fans just cannot shake off the reputation tag.
DARREN DAY PISSED DOWN THE BAY, allegedly!
I don't there's too many more odious celebrities out there than Darren Day, that's assuming you still label as a celebrity these days.
He's in Cardiff currently appearing at a show in New Theatre but seems he was stopped cruising around Custom House Street(!) at 2am and has been charged with drink driving. It may stop him driving but I'm afraid he'll probably carry on acting which is a shame.
Darren Day charged with drink-driving after arrest in Cardiff
InTheNews.co.uk
He's in Cardiff currently appearing at a show in New Theatre but seems he was stopped cruising around Custom House Street(!) at 2am and has been charged with drink driving. It may stop him driving but I'm afraid he'll probably carry on acting which is a shame.
Darren Day charged with drink-driving after arrest in Cardiff
InTheNews.co.uk
CITY LINE-UP STRIKING TRIO
Will Fowler sniff out goals for City next season?
As it's been a long time since Cardiff City actually landed the players named in newspapers, I can't get too excited at this stage but Peter Ridsdale is confident things are moving in his direction so we'll see.
The most certain 'arrival' appears to be that Robbie Fowler is set to sign a 1 year pay-as-you-play deal with Dave Jones and the club more excited about this than most supporters who have been distinctly unimpressed by Robbie and have every reason to speculate that he can't get the 20 goals that the boss suggests - 7 seasons of missing half the games and averaging 7 goals being as good as any. However, it's likely to be his last hurrah so we can only hope he does succeed.
More interesting is emerging news, eminating from Manchester too, that City are very close to landing Ched Evans on a season's loan from Manchester City. He's been a target for some time but some feared Mark Hughes would want to retain the Welsh starlet but as he chases down Brazilians and world stars and is set to splash the cash, it seems that he wants the player long-term but is considering allowing Cardiff - and possibly several other interested clubs - to give him more experience.
The names of Michael Chopra, Steve Howard and, worryingly, Mamady Sidibe continued to be linked as the club look set to play their own version of "Bargain Hunt" where we have antiques and stars are sold. :>)
Euro 2008 quarter-final line-up
The Group games are ended but starting form tonight, Euro'2008 swings straight into the quarter-finals with one game each night. Every game looks fascinating with the line up as follows;
Euro 2008 quarter-final line-up
Tonight - Germany v Portugal
Friday - Croatia v Turkey
Saturday - Netherlands v Russia
Sunday - Spain v Italy
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
EURO'2008 GAMES 23 & 24: GROUP D - SPAIN 2 RUSSIA 1, RUSSIA 2 SWEDEN 0
People get ready, The Russians are coming! A sensational Swede-bashing performance sent the previous faltering Russians into the quarter-finals to play Holland with absolutely nothing to fear. The Swedes, meanwhile, becmae the third team to win their opening game yet still be knocked out after game 3.
The Russian attacking display was refreshing and compulsive viewing. The shot count probably around 30 to 5 in their favour with every player pouring forward, even at 2-0, and a telling factor was that both goals were assisted by both full-backs making the final pass after lung-bursting runs to get deep inside the penalty box.
The key difference was Arshavin, who ran Rangers ragged for Zenit St Petersburg in their recent winning UEFA Cup winning display, ruled this encounter from start to finish but the whole team display was so powerful and consuming, making Sweden - who only needed a draw to go through and knock Russia out - looked a one paced clueless outfit.
Goals came in each half through Pavlyuchenko and that man Arshavin with sweeping moves, both started by Arhsavin. They also hit the post twice, produced numerous saves from Isaksson, went close several more times whilst battering the Swedish defence and midfield and peppering shots on goal at every opportunity.
The Swedes were mauled and lucky to get away with 2-0 although that represented their biggest ever defeat in a Euros final. Larrsson and Ibrahimovich never linked up front although the former hit the bar with a clever header and a 2nd half shot hit the post but, truth is, they only had 1 decent 5 minute spell all night which came at the end of the first period. However one first half shot in the Innsbruck venue probably ended up in Switzerland which did link the co-hosts.
Dare I suggest it now puts Wales' World Cup qualifying group and hopes into sharp perspective?
Our kids are developing fast, we look more competitive and have picked up some good results, albeit in friendlies. It also encouraged that Germany and Russia have looked decidely dodgy in their early games which I liked too. But now reality dawns, we're facing two Euro quarter-finallists. I bet our will be the only group that will be able to 'boast' that. While they may not be the best German side ever, they're still quality and so organised. Russia, meanwhile, look a terrifying prospect in this mood. It'll be one hell of a job to be anywhere near them.
In the other fixture, Spain were already through and had won the group played defending Champions Greece who were already out and would finish bottom. The Spaniards made 10 changes yet still won 2-1. The Greeks opened the scoring with a terrific powered header by Christeas, the man who scored the Euro'2004 winner.
However the Spanish were the superior side throughout with Liverpool's Alonso so close three times with a shot from the halfway line that missed by inches and sent the Greek keeper clattering into his own post, a 25 yard free-kick that almost whistled past the post and a 30 yard screamer that hit the inside of a post and rolled across goal but victory came with goals by the spendidly named De la Red's shot just past the hour and Guiza's guided header with two minutes left.
Greece, 2004 Winners, were therefore sent packing as the only team in the tournament to lose all three games while Spain equalled their international best record of 9 successive wins. When they last achieved it, they played Italy who stopped that sequence continuing and, yes, their quarter-final opponents just happen to be Italy!
Video highlights of these games and every Euro'2008 match plus stats and other info can all be found on this excellent BBC page
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/schedule_and_statistics/default.stm
CARDIFF WAGAMAMA RESTAURANT VISIT
Went to the latest addition to the Cardiff Bay eating scene this evening, Wagamama - an Asian styled noodle restaurant which has taken off around the UK and this is their first venue in Wales.
Got to admit, part of the reason I went is that it's 2 Meals for 1 all month if you print off a voucher at this link > http://www.menshealth.co.uk/Down-time/2-for-1-at-wagamama/v2
It only opened last month and is upstairs at Mermaid Quay with an entrance downstairs between restuarants facing the Millennium Centre.
The weather wasn't good and the Bay wasn't busy but Wagamama's was packed but we got a table straight away. It's open, spacious and with minimal decoration but is seen as trendy as that's the crowd they pull in, lord knows what they thought of me then! Having said that, I bet most were there on 2 for 1 vouchers anyway!
It was my first time in this sort of place and the menu was minimal - either noodle, rice or curry dishes. The staff were very friendly and every meal is freshly cooked but this does mean your food could arrive before your friend or partner, that's the way it is.
Fortunately, food for the other half and myself arrived pretty quickly after each other and it was excellent. I had teryaki steak noodles, my missus tried chickle noodles both were enriched with various additions and flavours and bloody gorgeous. Filling too.
My meal cost £12, my wife's cost £7 which is about the average cost per meal and a side dish was £4 so came to about £20 with drinks and the discount voucher but would have been nearer £30 otherwise.
Would I go there again? Yes definitely - although in truth probably only when the offer gets repeated which is regularly. I don't think it would have been worth £30.
Well worth a visit though and a refreshing change from the usual resturants and foods.
WALES' WEST HAM CARDIFF TRIO READY FOR PRE-SEASON
John Toshack's Wales have receieved a boost ahead for the Autumn World Cup 2010 qualifiers commencing with news that ex-Cardiff City men James Collins and Danny Gabbidon plus Cardiff-born Welsh skipper Craig Bellamy are all aiming to take part in the Premiership club's pre-season programme.
"Bells" briefly featured in Wales' end of season games and trained with the Bluebirds prior to the F.A. Cup Final after almost a year absent with various problems.
Gabbs has not played since before Christmas with back and hip problems but has had undertaken extensive treatment in Italy, he is understood to be ready and eager to get training and playing.
Ginge's return would be the biggest surprise of all since he had a cruciate knee ligament injury and was expected to miss the whole of 2008 and after regular action at the end of last season but his recovery appears to be well ahead of schedule.
Wales' first World Cup games are Azerbaijan and Russia in September, it will be good to have all three available.
Roger and Out at Ipswich as they sign two centre-halves
Media Rumours that Ipswich Town were about to offer an increased bid of £1.75M for Cardiff City centre-half Roger Johnson have ended almost as quickly as they started as the Suffolk club have signed two centre-halves within 24 hours.
Following the wonderfully named Pim Balkestein arriving from Holland, Town boss Jim Magilton has now signed Leicester City centre-half Gareth McAuley. It was widely believed that Magilton was after McCauley or Johnson and having obtained the former, there will no longer be any follow up enquiries or offer for the City man.
Any move to Ipswich seemed out of the question anyway as Johnson would not have left for another Championship club while Ipswich's valuations were substantially below the fee of £3M set by Peter Ridsdale.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
EURO'2008 GAMES 21 & 22: GROUP C ITALY 2 FRANCE 0, HOLLAND 2 ROMANIA 0
The repeat of the 2006 World Cup Final saw Italy and France, who both qualified form the same group edging out Scotland, fighting to stay in the competition knowing a win would not be enough if Romania beat Holland in the simultaneous group fixture.
As it was, the Dutch, even with 9 players rested, eased past a disappointing and ultra-cautious Romania 2-0 even with 2nd half strikes by Huntelaar and Van Persie. The Italians also found it rather too easy to repeat that scoreline against the worst French side seen for many years and who look in need of a drastic rebuild.
With the point shared between them in their dull opening clash being their only return of the finals, the French and Romanians head home while Italy and Holland march on although the Azzuri will have do make do without the suspended Gatuso and Perlo in their quarter-final.
The Italy v France contest was virtually over in the first 25 minutes as France lost their star man Franck Ribery to injury very early and then went one behind to a Perlo penalty and had Abidal sent off for bringing down Toni in thhe move that produced the spot-kick.
The French should have been out if sight by the interval but Toni somehow missed a literal hatful of chances with 6 clear sights of goal each failing to hit the target while Grosso hit the postt from a free-kick.
It got little better for France after the interval as Buffon has only one save of note to make all night as Thierry Henry, now a shadow of the player he was, rarely influential and it was ironic that Italy's clinching goal just past the hour was cruelly deflected in off Henry's boot after De Rossi's highly speculative 30 yard free-kick was heading wide.
Italy will face Spain in a tough quarter-final while Sweden and Russia effectively face off tomorrow for the dubious honour of taking on the unstoppable looking Dutch in the last 8.
Video highlights of all Euro'2008 games including the above matches can be found here:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/schedule_and_statistics/default.stm
As it was, the Dutch, even with 9 players rested, eased past a disappointing and ultra-cautious Romania 2-0 even with 2nd half strikes by Huntelaar and Van Persie. The Italians also found it rather too easy to repeat that scoreline against the worst French side seen for many years and who look in need of a drastic rebuild.
With the point shared between them in their dull opening clash being their only return of the finals, the French and Romanians head home while Italy and Holland march on although the Azzuri will have do make do without the suspended Gatuso and Perlo in their quarter-final.
The Italy v France contest was virtually over in the first 25 minutes as France lost their star man Franck Ribery to injury very early and then went one behind to a Perlo penalty and had Abidal sent off for bringing down Toni in thhe move that produced the spot-kick.
The French should have been out if sight by the interval but Toni somehow missed a literal hatful of chances with 6 clear sights of goal each failing to hit the target while Grosso hit the postt from a free-kick.
It got little better for France after the interval as Buffon has only one save of note to make all night as Thierry Henry, now a shadow of the player he was, rarely influential and it was ironic that Italy's clinching goal just past the hour was cruelly deflected in off Henry's boot after De Rossi's highly speculative 30 yard free-kick was heading wide.
Italy will face Spain in a tough quarter-final while Sweden and Russia effectively face off tomorrow for the dubious honour of taking on the unstoppable looking Dutch in the last 8.
Video highlights of all Euro'2008 games including the above matches can be found here:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/schedule_and_statistics/default.stm
FLEETWOOD, FROM CITY REJECT TO NON-LEAGUE TO CHAMPIONSHIP RIVALS
Cardiff City Academy product Stuart Fleetwood in back in league football and at Championship level too after signing a contract with Charlton Athletic.
Fleetwood always looked a useful player but his character wasn't right at City and he was discarded by Dave Jones with few appearences and fell away firstly with Hereford United and then into the non-league game with Forest Green Rovers. However he revived himself last season, netting 36 goals to make him leading Conference scorer and that brough him to the attention of league clubs.
Forest Green Rovers must be kicking themselves after Fleetwood himself turned down a January transfer to Crewe for a reported £200,000. Four months on, he can walk away for nothign although there is the matter of a compensation fee to be agreed.
SWANSEA ALREADY COUNTING THE DAY TO PLAYING CITY
Good to know we're still the centre of their universe!
MONK CAN'T WAIT FOR DERBY DAY AGAIN
South Wales Evening Post
MONK CAN'T WAIT FOR DERBY DAY AGAIN
South Wales Evening Post
JOHN HEYDA'S 2007/2008 CARDIFF CITY STATS PACK
Hope Mr H doesn't mind me repeating his posting to the Cardiff City mailing list but, for you CCFC trivia and stas buffs, this is a very worthy read.
Remember City's 4-2 League Cup win over West Brom in September? The Baggies had 16 attempts on goal in that match, the Bluebirds six. Or, how `bout City's 1-0 loss at Southampton in October? City had 13 attempts on goal compared to the Saints' three.
Match stats don't always tell you that much when it comes to individual games. Can they tell you much more when they're added together to produce season totals for the familiar categories - shots on goal, shots on and off target, corners, fouls, offsides, etc.?
Here are totals for City's games from the season just completed. See what you think.
Attempts on goal - City had 676 shots on goal in 56 games played (46 league games, six FA Cup and four League Cup games). That's an average of 12.1 attempts per game. City's opponents had 531 shots on goal for 56 games, an average of 9.5 per game. In short, the Bluebirds had 27% more attempts on goal than their opponents. City had the edge in league games 547 to 429 (or 11.9 to 9.3 per game), and in cup games by a margin of 129 to 102.
Attempts on target and off target - City put 385 of its 676 shots on target (or 57%), 280 off target (or 41.4%). Opponents put 288 of 531 on target (or 54.2%), 234 off target (or 44.1%). In league games, the Bluebirds had 313 on target (6.8 per game) and 225 off target (4.9 per game), opponents had 245 on target (5.3 per game) and 177 off (3.8 per game). In cup games, City had 72 on target and 55 off, opponents 43 and 57.
Hitting the woodwork - City hit woodwork 11 times, with nine coming in league matches, the other two in cup games. Opponents whacked the woodwork nine times, seven coming in league tilts and the other two in cup games.
Corners - The Bluebirds had 336 in total, 269 in the league (5.8 per game), 67 in cups. Opponents had 279 overall, 239 in the league (5.2 per game) and 40 in cup games. City had 20.4% more corners than their opponents in all games.
Fouls - City committed 563 fouls in all games (472 in the league, 91 in cups), while opponents were charged with a total of 743 (612 in league games, 131 in cups). In league games, the Bluebirds averaged 10.3 per game, opponents 13.3. Overall, opponents committed 32% more fouls than City.
Offsides - City were offside 194 times (181 in league play, 13 in cup games), while opponents show a figure of 211 (177 in the league, 34 in cup games). In league tilts, the Bluebirds averaged 3.9 per game, opponents 3.8. The offsides total for opponents is 8.8% higher than City's for this category.
Yellow Cards - The Bluebirds had 58 yellow cards (45 in league games, 13 in cup tilts), while opponents had 88 (70 in the league, 18 in cup games). Overall, opponents received 51.7% more yellows.
Red Cards - City had three, all in league matches. Opponents had only one, that coming in a cup game.
Substitutes - City employed 125 substitutes (100 in league games, 25 in cup matches). Opponents used 151 substitutions (124 in league games and another 27 in cup tilts). Opponents' total for this category is 20.8% higher than City's.
Scoring first - The Bluebirds scored first in 29 of the 52 matches featuring at least one goal. In league play, City scored first in 22 of 42. In cup matches, the club got the first goal in seven of 10.
So, what to make of all of this? Cardiff City finished 12th in their division in 2007/08, with a league record of 16-16-14, scoring 59 goals and conceding 55. Including ten Carling Cup and FA Cup matches, City won 24, drew 16 and lost 16, netting 76 and conceding 62. Do these marks sound like adequate return for a season in which the Bluebirds had 27% more attempts on goal and 20% more corners than their opponents in all games, not to mention seeing opponents commit 32% more fouls, get whistled for 9% more offsides, and pick up 52% more yellow cards?
In short, should City have done better with the edge they had in these categories? Or is this just further evidence that it's a funny old game (and good luck making much sense of it all)?
Remember City's 4-2 League Cup win over West Brom in September? The Baggies had 16 attempts on goal in that match, the Bluebirds six. Or, how `bout City's 1-0 loss at Southampton in October? City had 13 attempts on goal compared to the Saints' three.
Match stats don't always tell you that much when it comes to individual games. Can they tell you much more when they're added together to produce season totals for the familiar categories - shots on goal, shots on and off target, corners, fouls, offsides, etc.?
Here are totals for City's games from the season just completed. See what you think.
Attempts on goal - City had 676 shots on goal in 56 games played (46 league games, six FA Cup and four League Cup games). That's an average of 12.1 attempts per game. City's opponents had 531 shots on goal for 56 games, an average of 9.5 per game. In short, the Bluebirds had 27% more attempts on goal than their opponents. City had the edge in league games 547 to 429 (or 11.9 to 9.3 per game), and in cup games by a margin of 129 to 102.
Attempts on target and off target - City put 385 of its 676 shots on target (or 57%), 280 off target (or 41.4%). Opponents put 288 of 531 on target (or 54.2%), 234 off target (or 44.1%). In league games, the Bluebirds had 313 on target (6.8 per game) and 225 off target (4.9 per game), opponents had 245 on target (5.3 per game) and 177 off (3.8 per game). In cup games, City had 72 on target and 55 off, opponents 43 and 57.
Hitting the woodwork - City hit woodwork 11 times, with nine coming in league matches, the other two in cup games. Opponents whacked the woodwork nine times, seven coming in league tilts and the other two in cup games.
Corners - The Bluebirds had 336 in total, 269 in the league (5.8 per game), 67 in cups. Opponents had 279 overall, 239 in the league (5.2 per game) and 40 in cup games. City had 20.4% more corners than their opponents in all games.
Fouls - City committed 563 fouls in all games (472 in the league, 91 in cups), while opponents were charged with a total of 743 (612 in league games, 131 in cups). In league games, the Bluebirds averaged 10.3 per game, opponents 13.3. Overall, opponents committed 32% more fouls than City.
Offsides - City were offside 194 times (181 in league play, 13 in cup games), while opponents show a figure of 211 (177 in the league, 34 in cup games). In league tilts, the Bluebirds averaged 3.9 per game, opponents 3.8. The offsides total for opponents is 8.8% higher than City's for this category.
Yellow Cards - The Bluebirds had 58 yellow cards (45 in league games, 13 in cup tilts), while opponents had 88 (70 in the league, 18 in cup games). Overall, opponents received 51.7% more yellows.
Red Cards - City had three, all in league matches. Opponents had only one, that coming in a cup game.
Substitutes - City employed 125 substitutes (100 in league games, 25 in cup matches). Opponents used 151 substitutions (124 in league games and another 27 in cup tilts). Opponents' total for this category is 20.8% higher than City's.
Scoring first - The Bluebirds scored first in 29 of the 52 matches featuring at least one goal. In league play, City scored first in 22 of 42. In cup matches, the club got the first goal in seven of 10.
So, what to make of all of this? Cardiff City finished 12th in their division in 2007/08, with a league record of 16-16-14, scoring 59 goals and conceding 55. Including ten Carling Cup and FA Cup matches, City won 24, drew 16 and lost 16, netting 76 and conceding 62. Do these marks sound like adequate return for a season in which the Bluebirds had 27% more attempts on goal and 20% more corners than their opponents in all games, not to mention seeing opponents commit 32% more fouls, get whistled for 9% more offsides, and pick up 52% more yellow cards?
In short, should City have done better with the edge they had in these categories? Or is this just further evidence that it's a funny old game (and good luck making much sense of it all)?
IPSWICH READY TO RAISE THE STAKES FOR ROGER JOHNSON
News emerges from East Anglia that Ipswich Town are ready to come back to Cardiff City with an increased offer for centre-half and fans favourite Roger Johnson.Town had a £1M turned down by Peter Ridsdale last month but it's being reported in the media that they will now make a new bid of £1.75M.
That looks just as unlikely to have success as Roger Johnson would surely only leave Ninian Park for Premiership football but Cardiff City have already stated they would want £3M for the player who they do not wish to sell anyway. They have, however, offered new contract terms for Johnson which has not yet been signed.
Monday, June 16, 2008
FIXTURES ARE OUT AND, AS THE SKIDS SANG, THE SAINTS ARE COMING
CARDIFF CITY's fixture list for the 2008-2009 season has been published and, as per information which leaked onto CardiffCity.com messageboard, it all kicks off with a home game against Southampton on Saturday August 9.
The first away fixture will be the following weekend at newly promoted Doncaster Rovers, this info also become known in advance.
The first attractive awayday will be Derby County on September 20, Birmingham City - also demoted from the Premiership visit Ninian Park the following week.
Blackpool away on October 4 is a good date for those who like occasional stayovers and the illuminations will be in full swing.
Of course, it's the dates with our closest rivals which everyone looks for and City will visit Swansea on November 29 with the return at "Parc Nin" on April 4. The Wuzels visit City early on September 13, the visit to Trashton Gate comes next March. It's Reading (home) and Plymouth (away) at Christmas while Easter brings Crystal Palace (away) and Burnley (home).
This is the final season of football at Ninian Park and Ipswich Town get the honour of being City's final league opponents at the ground, that game takes place on April 25 before City finish the season at Sheffield Wednesday the following weekend.
For reasons that make little sense, I am not allowed to publish the fixture list since they are copyrighted.
However, if you are interested in an outlook version of all the City and Wales fixtures which will auto-populate your calendar, please mail me via the contact details on this blog and I will sort you out.
They can also be viewed on the official Cardiff City website > http://www.cardiffcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10335~1328872,00.html
The first away fixture will be the following weekend at newly promoted Doncaster Rovers, this info also become known in advance.
The first attractive awayday will be Derby County on September 20, Birmingham City - also demoted from the Premiership visit Ninian Park the following week.
Blackpool away on October 4 is a good date for those who like occasional stayovers and the illuminations will be in full swing.
Of course, it's the dates with our closest rivals which everyone looks for and City will visit Swansea on November 29 with the return at "Parc Nin" on April 4. The Wuzels visit City early on September 13, the visit to Trashton Gate comes next March. It's Reading (home) and Plymouth (away) at Christmas while Easter brings Crystal Palace (away) and Burnley (home).
This is the final season of football at Ninian Park and Ipswich Town get the honour of being City's final league opponents at the ground, that game takes place on April 25 before City finish the season at Sheffield Wednesday the following weekend.
For reasons that make little sense, I am not allowed to publish the fixture list since they are copyrighted.
However, if you are interested in an outlook version of all the City and Wales fixtures which will auto-populate your calendar, please mail me via the contact details on this blog and I will sort you out.
They can also be viewed on the official Cardiff City website > http://www.cardiffcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10335~1328872,00.html
IT'S 2008/2009 SEASON FIXTURE LIST DAY
In just a few hours, the new Championship fixture list for Cardiff City will be revealed.
When will be play Swansea and Bristol? How many games confirmed on the list will have thier days and times changed for tv or due to police? Will Blackpool away yet again be midweek in the middle of winter? Will I get a new job with good money to carry on supporting City away? What games will have to be rearranged with our FA Cup March to Wembley next season?
Some, but not all, of those questions will be answered later.
When will be play Swansea and Bristol? How many games confirmed on the list will have thier days and times changed for tv or due to police? Will Blackpool away yet again be midweek in the middle of winter? Will I get a new job with good money to carry on supporting City away? What games will have to be rearranged with our FA Cup March to Wembley next season?
Some, but not all, of those questions will be answered later.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
EURO'2008 GAMES 17 & 18: GROUP A TURKEY 3 CZECH REPUBLIC 2, PORTUGAL 0 SWITZERLAND 2
The final games in each group are played simultaneously so with Portugal already through and Switzerland already out, their clash was relegated to ITV4.
Unsurprisingly in that encounter, Portugal rested 8 players but still looked the likelier to win until Swiss hero Hakin Yakin entered the scene with a double, one smart finish and a late penalty, to send the co-hosts home happy. The main entertainment on ITV1 however was more dramatic than any Sunday Night film and with a script that would have been rejkected as too far fetched.
The Czech Republic and Turkey knew it was a winner take all clash with victors in the quarter-finals and losers heading home. With identical records, a draw at 90 mionutes would have meant a unique penalty shoot-out to separate the sides.
The Czechs looked the better side for long periods, The Turks played a negative game suggesting they were happy to take the draw and the lottery until Lurch aka Jan Koller nutted home a trademark header from a cross in the first period. Turkey woke up after the interval but looked vulnerable on the counter-attack and were duly caught out with 25 minutes remaining as The Czechs doubled their lead through Plasil, Turkey furious as they were down to 10 men through an injury and unable to bring a sub on.
That should have been it but a turning point came when the Czechs hit a post to be denied a 3-0 lead and Turkey grabbed a lifeline through Turan with 15 to go.
Czech Republic seemed to be coping with few problems dealing with any late Turkey onslaught but then came the real drama. Peter Cech, who has looked dodgy throughout the finals, made perhaps the biggest gaffe of his career in dropping a routine corss onto the feet of grateful Turkish skipper Nihat to equalise with just 3 minutes left and a penalty shoot out looked odds on.
But more incredible late drama as Turkey swept forward, a Czech defender was too slow out and Nihat was played in onside to finish brilliantly in the final minute, his cross shot form the edge of the box crashing in off the bar.
Four minutes added time and even more amazing scenes as Turkey keeper Demirel was beaten to a late ball, a header just going wide but he pushed Koller in the chest and got red carded. With all subs used, Middlesbrough's Tuncay had to play the final 2 minutes but the ball was kept away from his goal. What an incredible turnaround.
Turkey, minus a couple of suspended players, have to face Croatia in the quarter-finals. The Czech Republic will probably spend the rest of june trying to figure out how it wasn't them instead but they only have themselves to blame for that.
Unsurprisingly in that encounter, Portugal rested 8 players but still looked the likelier to win until Swiss hero Hakin Yakin entered the scene with a double, one smart finish and a late penalty, to send the co-hosts home happy. The main entertainment on ITV1 however was more dramatic than any Sunday Night film and with a script that would have been rejkected as too far fetched.
The Czech Republic and Turkey knew it was a winner take all clash with victors in the quarter-finals and losers heading home. With identical records, a draw at 90 mionutes would have meant a unique penalty shoot-out to separate the sides.
The Czechs looked the better side for long periods, The Turks played a negative game suggesting they were happy to take the draw and the lottery until Lurch aka Jan Koller nutted home a trademark header from a cross in the first period. Turkey woke up after the interval but looked vulnerable on the counter-attack and were duly caught out with 25 minutes remaining as The Czechs doubled their lead through Plasil, Turkey furious as they were down to 10 men through an injury and unable to bring a sub on.
That should have been it but a turning point came when the Czechs hit a post to be denied a 3-0 lead and Turkey grabbed a lifeline through Turan with 15 to go.
Czech Republic seemed to be coping with few problems dealing with any late Turkey onslaught but then came the real drama. Peter Cech, who has looked dodgy throughout the finals, made perhaps the biggest gaffe of his career in dropping a routine corss onto the feet of grateful Turkish skipper Nihat to equalise with just 3 minutes left and a penalty shoot out looked odds on.
But more incredible late drama as Turkey swept forward, a Czech defender was too slow out and Nihat was played in onside to finish brilliantly in the final minute, his cross shot form the edge of the box crashing in off the bar.
Four minutes added time and even more amazing scenes as Turkey keeper Demirel was beaten to a late ball, a header just going wide but he pushed Koller in the chest and got red carded. With all subs used, Middlesbrough's Tuncay had to play the final 2 minutes but the ball was kept away from his goal. What an incredible turnaround.
Turkey, minus a couple of suspended players, have to face Croatia in the quarter-finals. The Czech Republic will probably spend the rest of june trying to figure out how it wasn't them instead but they only have themselves to blame for that.
MAKE MY DAY JONESY says EASTWOOD
In a week where Dave Jones went on record as saying he didn't believe Freddy Eastwood wanted to join Cardiff City but he was looking for bigger and better players anyway, Eastwood spoke to the media about how he would be more than happy to be with The Bluebirds.
The adopted Welshman signed for Wolves for £1.5M last summer but despite being appreciated by fans, boss Mick McCarthy has not rated him and has him on the transfer list.
In today's Wales on Sunday, Eastwood is quoted as saying, "I need to get away from Wolves and play - and Cardiff would be a very good move for me. They would be attractive to anyone. They got to the FA Cup final and have got a lot of good young players - you only have to look around the Welsh squad to see that."
"They have brought a lot of good players through and I know they had a little bit of a difficult season in the league, but they showed what they can do by getting to the cup final and in the end they were unfortunate not to win it. So anyone would fancy something like that. I have had my problems with Wolves but I have shown what I can do at international level, and I know I can do the same at club level if I get the chance."
In this game of verbal tennis, the ball is now back in Dave Jones' court.
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