I agree.
A lot of the votes will come from those who care the most - and that's us guys participating. Restricting it just seems silly.
I couldn't care less who is in my group, I'll vote for the team I think is strongest.
70s Retro Football Fantasy Championship - DRAFT THREAD
- Thread starter Cal?
- Start date
I agree.
A lot of the votes will come from those who care the most - and that's us guys participating. Restricting it just seems silly.
I couldn't care less who is in my group, I'll vote for the team I think is strongest.
Forget what I said, just noticed if you click on the number you see who voted. Fair enough.
First XI and tactics
This is how my first XI will set out for the opening match against Antohan's outfit.
I have opted for the following players on the team sheet:
Angelo Peruzzi
Mainstay of the successful Juventus team of the 90's. Honours during that period include 3 league titles, 2 Italian super cups, 1 champions league, 1 UEFA cup, 1 intercontinental cup. He also has 3 Italian goalkeeper of the year awards from this period. To go with his illustrious career at Juve, he also offers 192 appearances for Lazio, a Copa Italia title and was a World Cup Winner with Italy in 2006.
Serginho
Brilliant attacking fullback who worked in tandem with Cafu at AC Milan for many years. Known for his overlapping runs and superb engine, Serginho was comfortable at both fullback or left sided winger. He will help supply width on my left flank and cause issues with his movement on and off the ball.
Carlos Puyol
Comfortable anywhere across the back four, Puyol is better suited in the centre due to his commanding presence and commitment to the teams cause. His nickname is "The Wall" which speaks volumes. Strong, nimble and with perfect positioning he pretty much has it all. With 625 appearances for Barca he is some player with almost 100 caps for Spain coming at the nations most successful ever period. I would be still writing this tomorrow if I mentioned what he has won at team level, but personally he has been named UEFA defender of the year and featured in the UEFA team of the year in 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2010. He was also named in the European Championship (2008) all star team, and the World Cup (2010) all star team.
Alessandro Nesta Captain
Considered by many as the best centre half to ever play the game...
Brilliant reader of the game with some of the best tactical knowledge ever seen from a centre half. Comfortable with the ball and dedicated to the cause. Nesta has won just about everything with AC Milan and Italy, including 2 Champions League's and a World Cup title. Personally Nesta has been crowned UEFA defender of the year and featured in its team of the year on 4 separate occasions. From 2000-2004 he was named Serie A defender of the year consecutively. A true great for both club and country.
Cosmin Contra
The less known of the back four, unless you are Romanian. Contra is one of those from the generation of Romanian players who became successful at the start of the 00's. A dedicated and talented wingback and when required defensive midfielder, Contra has a good engine with an eye for goal. He is attacking minded and loves to get forward. A mainstay in the national side for over 15 years he has had spells as part of the famous Alaves side which was beaten in the UEFA cup final by Liverpool, aswel as featuring for Athletico Madrid and AC Milan. More recently Contra has played in La Liga for Getafe. In 2001 Contra was named Romanian player of the year and was selected in UEFA's team of the year.
Mark van Bommel
Tough tackling captain of the Dutch national side, van Bommel is notorious for his no nonsense non compromising style on the pitch. With spells at PSV, Barcalona, Bayern Munich and now AC Milan, he has represented some of Europe's finest clubs, boasting 71 caps for his country. His experience is magnificent and his role in my side will be to disrupt and put his foot in whilst helping maintain a solid core to the side. van Bommel is a Champions League winner, a World Cup runner up and has been named twice as Dutch footballer of the year. Every club he has played for has won its respected domestic league title.
Massimo Ambrosini
Box to box with a fantastic engine and desire to win. Ambrosini is known for his tough tackling and aeriel prowess but also offers a tidy passing game to compliment these attributes. Playing alongside his team mate, van Bommel, Ambrosini will be instructed to bomb forward when possible making the most of his box to box style and powerful engine. Ambrosini is the current captain of AC Milan and is held in high regard amongst the clubs fans for his attitude and commitment. Another solid player in the middle of the park who simply does not let you down when it matters.
Ivan de la Pena
Perfect player to keep things ticking over in the middle of the park. Playing infront of the sitting Ambrosini and van Bommel, de la Pena is free to pass the ball bridging the gap between defence and attack perfectly. Known for his magnificent technical ability and accurate passing, it is fair to say he is the stereotypical product of the Barcalona school of football seen today by the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Xavi, Thiago and Iniesta. Along with his fantastic passing skills, de la Pena was superb with the ball at his feet and capable of carrying the ball elegantly, ghosting past opposing players seamlessly. For those unfamiliar with de la Pena, please watch the below to get an idea.
Rui Costa
This man needs no introduction. Perfect passing and sublime technique, Rui Costa has been described as one of the best midfielders of his generation. A traditional "Playmaker" who rarely gave the ball away. A classic number 10 yet also competent in the centre of the park due to his ability to retain possession. Some say more devastating when playing higher up the pitch which is to be his role today along side Ortega. Champions League winner at AC Milan with over 100 caps for his country and 28 goals. Simply one of the very best to play the game.
Ariel Ortega
When his name is mentioned many people will think of a wasted talent but what they should be thinking here was how good was Ortega at his peek. The answer to that question would be pretty damn good. Capped by Argentina 87 times, scoring 17 goals, Ortega is still considered one of the best products from Argentinian football to date. Ortega was lightening quick and during his best years seen as the finest dribbler in the world. His trademarks were lobbed shots and clever Messi style feint's. A very tricky customer who would wreak havoc upon any defence he came across. For those unfamiliar with Ortega, please view the following video.
David Trezeguet
71 caps for France, 34 goals. 112 games for Monaco, 60 goals. 245 games for Juventus, 148 goals...
David Trezeguet scores goals wherever he plays but what is more interesting is the variety of ways in which he scores them. At 6ft 3 his physical power is enough to worry any centre half. As lethal inside the box as he is without, his powerful headed goals are as familiar as his net bursting volleys. Serie A top foreign footballer of the year, Serie A player of the year and Serie A top goalscorer in 2001-2002, as a centre forward Trezeguet really does have it all.
Substitute
Marcelo Salas
Won league titles at every club he played, left footed with blistering pace and a sublime techinique in front of goal. 71 caps for Chilie with 37 goals. In Europe he is best known for his time at Lazio. During his time in Italy Salas won the Serie A title on 3 occasions, the Italian Cup on 1 occasion and the Italian Super Cup on 3 occasions. He also won the UEFA cup and UEFA cup winners cup along with the FIFA World Cup bronze shoe in 1998.
Summary
I believe the side above offers top quality in all areas. Puyol and Nesta are two of the best centre halves in the draft. Faultless together and very difficult to beat.
Serginho and Contra deployed on either flank offer enough defensive nouce to get back and muck in and another attacking flair and engine to get forward and support the forward players. Serginho will offer the most width as he can also play as winger.
Ambrosini and van Bommel. Both able to mix it up in the middle of the park with van Bommel acting as destroyer and Ambrosini the box to box engine of the pair. Both have instructions to sit in and assist when Serginho/Contra move up the flanks, with Ambrosini roaming forward when possible to join attacks.
Rui Costa and de la Pena will be very difficult to get the ball off as both are two of the best passers in the draft. Creative and clever, play will be dictated by these gents with Costa roaming behind Trezeguet and de la Pena playing deeper.
Ortega in his favoured role as second striker can also roam in behind Trezeguet using his dribbling skills and pace to take him anywhere across the front line. Whilst Rui Costa and de la Pena give stability, look at Ortega as the livewire who can be equally devastating in a more flamboyant way.
Trezeguet up top alone is the perfect man for the job. Attacking support is not far away though with Rui Costa and Ariel Ortega to call on. He will be dished up plenty of tempting chances by the wealth of creativity behind him something which he rarely passes up on.
Salas shall be used later in the game if required as his blistering pace can be the pefect foil to form a partnership with the powerful Trezeguet.
This is how my first XI will set out for the opening match against Antohan's outfit.
I have opted for the following players on the team sheet:
Angelo Peruzzi
Mainstay of the successful Juventus team of the 90's. Honours during that period include 3 league titles, 2 Italian super cups, 1 champions league, 1 UEFA cup, 1 intercontinental cup. He also has 3 Italian goalkeeper of the year awards from this period. To go with his illustrious career at Juve, he also offers 192 appearances for Lazio, a Copa Italia title and was a World Cup Winner with Italy in 2006.
Serginho
Brilliant attacking fullback who worked in tandem with Cafu at AC Milan for many years. Known for his overlapping runs and superb engine, Serginho was comfortable at both fullback or left sided winger. He will help supply width on my left flank and cause issues with his movement on and off the ball.
Carlos Puyol
Comfortable anywhere across the back four, Puyol is better suited in the centre due to his commanding presence and commitment to the teams cause. His nickname is "The Wall" which speaks volumes. Strong, nimble and with perfect positioning he pretty much has it all. With 625 appearances for Barca he is some player with almost 100 caps for Spain coming at the nations most successful ever period. I would be still writing this tomorrow if I mentioned what he has won at team level, but personally he has been named UEFA defender of the year and featured in the UEFA team of the year in 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2010. He was also named in the European Championship (2008) all star team, and the World Cup (2010) all star team.
Alessandro Nesta Captain
Considered by many as the best centre half to ever play the game...
Brilliant reader of the game with some of the best tactical knowledge ever seen from a centre half. Comfortable with the ball and dedicated to the cause. Nesta has won just about everything with AC Milan and Italy, including 2 Champions League's and a World Cup title. Personally Nesta has been crowned UEFA defender of the year and featured in its team of the year on 4 separate occasions. From 2000-2004 he was named Serie A defender of the year consecutively. A true great for both club and country.
Cosmin Contra
The less known of the back four, unless you are Romanian. Contra is one of those from the generation of Romanian players who became successful at the start of the 00's. A dedicated and talented wingback and when required defensive midfielder, Contra has a good engine with an eye for goal. He is attacking minded and loves to get forward. A mainstay in the national side for over 15 years he has had spells as part of the famous Alaves side which was beaten in the UEFA cup final by Liverpool, aswel as featuring for Athletico Madrid and AC Milan. More recently Contra has played in La Liga for Getafe. In 2001 Contra was named Romanian player of the year and was selected in UEFA's team of the year.
Mark van Bommel
Tough tackling captain of the Dutch national side, van Bommel is notorious for his no nonsense non compromising style on the pitch. With spells at PSV, Barcalona, Bayern Munich and now AC Milan, he has represented some of Europe's finest clubs, boasting 71 caps for his country. His experience is magnificent and his role in my side will be to disrupt and put his foot in whilst helping maintain a solid core to the side. van Bommel is a Champions League winner, a World Cup runner up and has been named twice as Dutch footballer of the year. Every club he has played for has won its respected domestic league title.
Massimo Ambrosini
Box to box with a fantastic engine and desire to win. Ambrosini is known for his tough tackling and aeriel prowess but also offers a tidy passing game to compliment these attributes. Playing alongside his team mate, van Bommel, Ambrosini will be instructed to bomb forward when possible making the most of his box to box style and powerful engine. Ambrosini is the current captain of AC Milan and is held in high regard amongst the clubs fans for his attitude and commitment. Another solid player in the middle of the park who simply does not let you down when it matters.
Ivan de la Pena
Perfect player to keep things ticking over in the middle of the park. Playing infront of the sitting Ambrosini and van Bommel, de la Pena is free to pass the ball bridging the gap between defence and attack perfectly. Known for his magnificent technical ability and accurate passing, it is fair to say he is the stereotypical product of the Barcalona school of football seen today by the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Xavi, Thiago and Iniesta. Along with his fantastic passing skills, de la Pena was superb with the ball at his feet and capable of carrying the ball elegantly, ghosting past opposing players seamlessly. For those unfamiliar with de la Pena, please watch the below to get an idea.
Rui Costa
This man needs no introduction. Perfect passing and sublime technique, Rui Costa has been described as one of the best midfielders of his generation. A traditional "Playmaker" who rarely gave the ball away. A classic number 10 yet also competent in the centre of the park due to his ability to retain possession. Some say more devastating when playing higher up the pitch which is to be his role today along side Ortega. Champions League winner at AC Milan with over 100 caps for his country and 28 goals. Simply one of the very best to play the game.
Ariel Ortega
When his name is mentioned many people will think of a wasted talent but what they should be thinking here was how good was Ortega at his peek. The answer to that question would be pretty damn good. Capped by Argentina 87 times, scoring 17 goals, Ortega is still considered one of the best products from Argentinian football to date. Ortega was lightening quick and during his best years seen as the finest dribbler in the world. His trademarks were lobbed shots and clever Messi style feint's. A very tricky customer who would wreak havoc upon any defence he came across. For those unfamiliar with Ortega, please view the following video.
David Trezeguet
71 caps for France, 34 goals. 112 games for Monaco, 60 goals. 245 games for Juventus, 148 goals...
David Trezeguet scores goals wherever he plays but what is more interesting is the variety of ways in which he scores them. At 6ft 3 his physical power is enough to worry any centre half. As lethal inside the box as he is without, his powerful headed goals are as familiar as his net bursting volleys. Serie A top foreign footballer of the year, Serie A player of the year and Serie A top goalscorer in 2001-2002, as a centre forward Trezeguet really does have it all.
Substitute
Marcelo Salas
Won league titles at every club he played, left footed with blistering pace and a sublime techinique in front of goal. 71 caps for Chilie with 37 goals. In Europe he is best known for his time at Lazio. During his time in Italy Salas won the Serie A title on 3 occasions, the Italian Cup on 1 occasion and the Italian Super Cup on 3 occasions. He also won the UEFA cup and UEFA cup winners cup along with the FIFA World Cup bronze shoe in 1998.
Summary
I believe the side above offers top quality in all areas. Puyol and Nesta are two of the best centre halves in the draft. Faultless together and very difficult to beat.
Serginho and Contra deployed on either flank offer enough defensive nouce to get back and muck in and another attacking flair and engine to get forward and support the forward players. Serginho will offer the most width as he can also play as winger.
Ambrosini and van Bommel. Both able to mix it up in the middle of the park with van Bommel acting as destroyer and Ambrosini the box to box engine of the pair. Both have instructions to sit in and assist when Serginho/Contra move up the flanks, with Ambrosini roaming forward when possible to join attacks.
Rui Costa and de la Pena will be very difficult to get the ball off as both are two of the best passers in the draft. Creative and clever, play will be dictated by these gents with Costa roaming behind Trezeguet and de la Pena playing deeper.
Ortega in his favoured role as second striker can also roam in behind Trezeguet using his dribbling skills and pace to take him anywhere across the front line. Whilst Rui Costa and de la Pena give stability, look at Ortega as the livewire who can be equally devastating in a more flamboyant way.
Trezeguet up top alone is the perfect man for the job. Attacking support is not far away though with Rui Costa and Ariel Ortega to call on. He will be dished up plenty of tempting chances by the wealth of creativity behind him something which he rarely passes up on.
Salas shall be used later in the game if required as his blistering pace can be the pefect foil to form a partnership with the powerful Trezeguet.
Soooo you are AC Milan.
Thats a solid team from TheReligion
Dan's Brazilian Army
Tactics:
Julio Cesar - Brazil's number 1 and over 200 caps for Inter. Won the treble with Inter in 2010 and was named UEFA Goalkeeper of the year
Cafu (c) - World cup winning captain - One of, if not the best right full back of his generation. Won 2 Copa America's, 2 World Cups along with a host of other club competitions; including the Champions League, 1 Club world cup, Serie A titles with Roma and AC.
Lucio - World cup winner and one of the best centre backs of the 2000s. On top of the Wolrd Cup, has won the lot at club level - also part of Inter's treble winning side in 2010. Before his time at Inter, Lucio was at the heart of Bayern Munich's defense who dominated the German League in the mid 2000s, collecting 3 Bundesliga titles.
Juan - Underrated, solid defender who has played with Lucio for Brazil. Juan is the 20th most capped Brazilian player of all time, anyone with that record for a team like Brazil has had an impressive career.
Sylvinho - Providing the width on the left is Sylvinho. Good servant for Arsenal, and part of Barcelona's 2006 and 2009 Champions League winning team. Also won a few La Liga titles and is capable of getting forward as well as putting in a defensive shift
Gilberto Silva - Solid, disciplined defensive midfielder who will keep things ticking and cover for Sylvinho and Cafu when they move forward. An integral part of both Brazil's World Cup 2002 winning team and Arsenal's "invincibles".
Edu - Another important player of Arsenal's unbeaten side in 2004. 2 Premiership medals and 2 FA Cups was followed by a successful stint at Valencia where he won the Copa del Rey in 2008. Another World Champion as he was part of the Cornithians side to pick of the FIFA Club World Championship in 2000
Juninho Paulista - Adding flair and creativity to the midfield is "Little" Juninho. World Cup winner in 2002.
Juninho Pernambucano - Will be remembered for his deadly freekicks. Very tidy on the ball and will link the midfield and attacking play well. Integral part of the dominant Lyon side who won 7 consecutive French titles between 2002-2008. Picked up 40 international caps for Brazil
Edmundo - had a reputation for being a bit of a nutter. But there was no doubting his talent. Scorer of one of the best goals I've seen scored against United Mundial FIFA 2000: Vasco 3 X 1 Manchester - Golaço de Edmundo - YouTube .10 goals in 39 caps for Brazil - the prospect of a Edmundo - Ronaldo partnership is exciting
Ronaldo - the best striker of his generation. A stunning 247 goals in 343 starts at club level, paired with 62 in 98 for Brazil. 2 time Ballon D'or winner, guided Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002.
Sub - Denilson - another World Cup winner. Famous for his trickery and step overs. If a bit of magic is needed from the bench, he is capable.
I have gone for a strong core to the team. Julio Cesar, Lucio, Gilberto Silva, Ronaldo - all top players who, in their prime, were amongst the best around.
The width will be provided by Cafu, arguably the best right back of his generation, and on the other side Sylvinho. When either of these 2 go forward I have a well disciplined, World Cup winning defensive midfielder in Gilberto to cover for them.
Attacking-wise, the creativity of the two Juninhos and Edmundo will be able to create chances, and then I have the best striker of this generation to score the goals for me in Ronaldo.
Flair is clearly not going to be lacking in a Brazilian team but this group of players also have the steel to go with that.
7 World Cup medals between them, along with a couple of Wolrd Club Championships and Champions Leagues. They also boast league titles from Greece, Brazil, England, Spain, Italy, France and Germany.
Tactics:
Julio Cesar - Brazil's number 1 and over 200 caps for Inter. Won the treble with Inter in 2010 and was named UEFA Goalkeeper of the year
Cafu (c) - World cup winning captain - One of, if not the best right full back of his generation. Won 2 Copa America's, 2 World Cups along with a host of other club competitions; including the Champions League, 1 Club world cup, Serie A titles with Roma and AC.
Lucio - World cup winner and one of the best centre backs of the 2000s. On top of the Wolrd Cup, has won the lot at club level - also part of Inter's treble winning side in 2010. Before his time at Inter, Lucio was at the heart of Bayern Munich's defense who dominated the German League in the mid 2000s, collecting 3 Bundesliga titles.
Juan - Underrated, solid defender who has played with Lucio for Brazil. Juan is the 20th most capped Brazilian player of all time, anyone with that record for a team like Brazil has had an impressive career.
Sylvinho - Providing the width on the left is Sylvinho. Good servant for Arsenal, and part of Barcelona's 2006 and 2009 Champions League winning team. Also won a few La Liga titles and is capable of getting forward as well as putting in a defensive shift
Gilberto Silva - Solid, disciplined defensive midfielder who will keep things ticking and cover for Sylvinho and Cafu when they move forward. An integral part of both Brazil's World Cup 2002 winning team and Arsenal's "invincibles".
Edu - Another important player of Arsenal's unbeaten side in 2004. 2 Premiership medals and 2 FA Cups was followed by a successful stint at Valencia where he won the Copa del Rey in 2008. Another World Champion as he was part of the Cornithians side to pick of the FIFA Club World Championship in 2000
Juninho Paulista - Adding flair and creativity to the midfield is "Little" Juninho. World Cup winner in 2002.
Juninho Pernambucano - Will be remembered for his deadly freekicks. Very tidy on the ball and will link the midfield and attacking play well. Integral part of the dominant Lyon side who won 7 consecutive French titles between 2002-2008. Picked up 40 international caps for Brazil
Edmundo - had a reputation for being a bit of a nutter. But there was no doubting his talent. Scorer of one of the best goals I've seen scored against United Mundial FIFA 2000: Vasco 3 X 1 Manchester - Golaço de Edmundo - YouTube .10 goals in 39 caps for Brazil - the prospect of a Edmundo - Ronaldo partnership is exciting
Ronaldo - the best striker of his generation. A stunning 247 goals in 343 starts at club level, paired with 62 in 98 for Brazil. 2 time Ballon D'or winner, guided Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002.
Sub - Denilson - another World Cup winner. Famous for his trickery and step overs. If a bit of magic is needed from the bench, he is capable.
I have gone for a strong core to the team. Julio Cesar, Lucio, Gilberto Silva, Ronaldo - all top players who, in their prime, were amongst the best around.
The width will be provided by Cafu, arguably the best right back of his generation, and on the other side Sylvinho. When either of these 2 go forward I have a well disciplined, World Cup winning defensive midfielder in Gilberto to cover for them.
Attacking-wise, the creativity of the two Juninhos and Edmundo will be able to create chances, and then I have the best striker of this generation to score the goals for me in Ronaldo.
Flair is clearly not going to be lacking in a Brazilian team but this group of players also have the steel to go with that.
7 World Cup medals between them, along with a couple of Wolrd Club Championships and Champions Leagues. They also boast league titles from Greece, Brazil, England, Spain, Italy, France and Germany.
Team Antohan
I was preparing for Trezeguet and Salas. Last time they met Barthez they lost 3-0 in Turin
With no time before heading for work, I've gone for matching The Religion's shape rather than turn this into an obscure battle which would rely on tactical preferences.
At the back, Montero and Ramelow are a solid partnership. Montero IMO is better than Puyol, and he is also left footed, handy for a left-sided CB. A right-footed left-CB keeps taking the ball towards the centre of the box both when chasing face-to-goal and when needing to clear. Nesta is superb, no question.
Brown (twice CL winner, one as first-choice fullback) and Candela provide width as well. I've no recollection of this Contra fellow. Serginho will have trouble advancing down that flank with Brown, Zanetti and Luis Enrique on that channel, all ready to dart behind his back and do some real damage. My 2 in the 4-3-2-1 are capable of providing far more width than TRs, which should keep their fullbacks conservative (or else!).
I've sacrificed Zanetti at fullback purely because I think that Brown can do as significant a job in this game and I preferred to partner him with Simeone as DMs. Simeone and Zanetti would have a great understanding of each other, have played together in DM several times, have as much bite/destructive ability as Ambrosini and van Bommel BUT OFFER A LOT MORE GOING FORWARD AND TRANSITIONING TO ATTACK.
Zidane is Zidane, much better than De la Peña.
Forlán and Luis Enrique provide as much creativity and link-up/one-two potential as Rui Costa and Ortega, a lot more workrate and willingness to get stuck in/track back, etc. AND MORE GOALS in every shape and form. Rui Costa scored less that Simeone himself, Ortega's record during his peak 4-year European stint was a grand total of 20 goals in 87 games. Forlán has scored that in single seasons. Luis Enrique scored 1 in 3 over his Barca career and 1 in 2 in European ties.
Vieri is a much more daunting prospect than Trezeguet for any defence, particularly up there on his own.
Overall, I don't think Nesta is that good that he would make the whole difference.
PLAYER PROFILES
I was preparing for Trezeguet and Salas. Last time they met Barthez they lost 3-0 in Turin
With no time before heading for work, I've gone for matching The Religion's shape rather than turn this into an obscure battle which would rely on tactical preferences.
At the back, Montero and Ramelow are a solid partnership. Montero IMO is better than Puyol, and he is also left footed, handy for a left-sided CB. A right-footed left-CB keeps taking the ball towards the centre of the box both when chasing face-to-goal and when needing to clear. Nesta is superb, no question.
Brown (twice CL winner, one as first-choice fullback) and Candela provide width as well. I've no recollection of this Contra fellow. Serginho will have trouble advancing down that flank with Brown, Zanetti and Luis Enrique on that channel, all ready to dart behind his back and do some real damage. My 2 in the 4-3-2-1 are capable of providing far more width than TRs, which should keep their fullbacks conservative (or else!).
I've sacrificed Zanetti at fullback purely because I think that Brown can do as significant a job in this game and I preferred to partner him with Simeone as DMs. Simeone and Zanetti would have a great understanding of each other, have played together in DM several times, have as much bite/destructive ability as Ambrosini and van Bommel BUT OFFER A LOT MORE GOING FORWARD AND TRANSITIONING TO ATTACK.
Zidane is Zidane, much better than De la Peña.
Forlán and Luis Enrique provide as much creativity and link-up/one-two potential as Rui Costa and Ortega, a lot more workrate and willingness to get stuck in/track back, etc. AND MORE GOALS in every shape and form. Rui Costa scored less that Simeone himself, Ortega's record during his peak 4-year European stint was a grand total of 20 goals in 87 games. Forlán has scored that in single seasons. Luis Enrique scored 1 in 3 over his Barca career and 1 in 2 in European ties.
Vieri is a much more daunting prospect than Trezeguet for any defence, particularly up there on his own.
Overall, I don't think Nesta is that good that he would make the whole difference.
PLAYER PROFILES
Team Brian GB:
Sub: J.F.Hasselbaink
I am playing a 4-5-1 derivative that can change to a flat 4-4-2, a 4 diamond 2 04 a 3-5-2 if necessary.
The defensive is playing in an orthodox manner with Sorin and Reiziger playing as full backs who like to go forward, they will be supported in that role by Stankovic on the left and Belletti on the right who can move out from the centre of midfield as necessary.
In order to increase the protection of the midfield, Makelele and Seedorf will be sitting deep, they will have Belletti and Stankovic ahead of them playing a more offensive role and Gudjohnsen further still whose job will be to link play through the centre to Drogba. If necessary, he can play alongside Drogba.
Sub: J.F.Hasselbaink
I am playing a 4-5-1 derivative that can change to a flat 4-4-2, a 4 diamond 2 04 a 3-5-2 if necessary.
The defensive is playing in an orthodox manner with Sorin and Reiziger playing as full backs who like to go forward, they will be supported in that role by Stankovic on the left and Belletti on the right who can move out from the centre of midfield as necessary.
In order to increase the protection of the midfield, Makelele and Seedorf will be sitting deep, they will have Belletti and Stankovic ahead of them playing a more offensive role and Gudjohnsen further still whose job will be to link play through the centre to Drogba. If necessary, he can play alongside Drogba.
Other players I thought worth considering which I don't think have been mentioned:
Manuel Pablo - excellent right-back for Depor, particularly prior to his leg break.
Ivan Hurtado - very useful Ecuadorian centre-half
Sergio - all-round central midfielder for Depor, no chinks in his armour and a decent strike from range.
Barry Ferguson - very competent on the European stage between 1998 and 2003, dictating games against a number of midfielders already chosen.
Nihat - tricky and elusive with a good eye for goal, able to play up top, in behind or on the right.
Marcio Amoroso - superb for Udinese and Brazil in the late 1990s.
Victor - under-rated right midfielder for Santander Depor, excellent crosser and handy from a dead ball.
Manuel Pablo - excellent right-back for Depor, particularly prior to his leg break.
Ivan Hurtado - very useful Ecuadorian centre-half
Sergio - all-round central midfielder for Depor, no chinks in his armour and a decent strike from range.
Barry Ferguson - very competent on the European stage between 1998 and 2003, dictating games against a number of midfielders already chosen.
Nihat - tricky and elusive with a good eye for goal, able to play up top, in behind or on the right.
Marcio Amoroso - superb for Udinese and Brazil in the late 1990s.
Victor - under-rated right midfielder for Santander Depor, excellent crosser and handy from a dead ball.
That's an impressive front six you've got Antohan.
ye - crap defence though
In what way is it crap
Brown did admirably well with no support from Ronaldo. I could have Zanetti in there and Almeyda instead but the way this game presents itself Zanetti would be wasted there. Brown will do the job, while Zanetti will really help get attacking moves started from that position, much more than Ambrosini or van Bommel ever would.
Ramelow is a strong tall CB who was runner-up at CL and WC level (not Nesta, I admitted as much). I admit he is not Nesta, obviously.
I rate Montero higher than Puyol TBH but I guess that goes down to personal opinion. I do think my point on him being a leftie is a valid one. It makes a world of difference if the CB can comfortably move away from goal with his left peg rather than need to get closer to it if he is right-pegged.
Candela was superb for Roma and played (not just won from the bench) at WC98 and Euro 2000 for France.
The delta really is Nesta>Ramelow, which I more than make up for with all of the other 6 being better sometimes very significantly.
Matches tomorrow:
Matchday 3
Jayvin v Brwned
Cling Bak v Gio
Matchday 3
Jayvin v Brwned
Cling Bak v Gio
Rustu
Excellent reflexes and very difficult to beat one-on-one, outrageous at times but undeniably a matchwinner on his day. In the all-star WC 2002 team, named the best keeper overall in Europe by Uefa later that year - it was certainly a spectacular peak.
Sagnol
With his dependability in attack and defence, endless energy and a fantastic whipped cross he made his name as one of the best fullbacks around for nearly a decade. A more attacking Gary Neville, essentially.
Hyypia
Part of the best defence in the league right at the beginning and end of his Liverpool career, a leader at the back and quietly dominant. Alongside Rio he forms the cleanest defensive partnership around, at one point going nearly 90 games without a single booking.
Ferdinand
Class. Outstanding in 2008 to the extent some would argue he was our best player.
Zambrotta
Like Sagnol he was nominated for the Ballon D'or in 2006 and there's a good shout that at this point they were the two best fullbacks around. Extremely versatile and well-rounded, a constant attacking threat but always willing and able to get back and more than capable of taking his opposing attacker out of the game completely.
Tacchinardi
Named as one of the Juventus 50 Legends, his influence on that utterly dominant Juve side can't be understated. Provides the energy and bite needed to make this midfield a cohesive unit just as he did for Juve.
Pirlo
An outstanding passer and the outstanding deep-lying playmaker of the draft. Widely considered the best midfielder around circa 07' after being named the third best player in the World Cup, had took Milan to successive CL finals and was voted 5th best player in the world in the Ballon D'or 07.
Valeron
Finished in the top 15 for the Ballon D'or 2002. A magician who would literally walk past player after player at times; with fantastic close control, wonderful imagination and devastatingly incisive passing. He'll of course be providing the ammunition for the two forwards.
Larrson
Nominated for the Ballon D'or 3 times in 4 years between 2000-04, finishing just outside the top 10 twice...it says it all for a player playing in the SPL. Brilliant goalscorer and showed his all-round attacking game and intelligence in his time at Barcelona and United.
Shearer
112 goals in 138 games for Blackburn, no-one needs to be told about this man.
Recoba
Pace, dribbling and a fantastic long range shot. Could play right across the front. Or, as Cling said:
See for yourself.
does anyone else have 2 Ballon D'Or winners?
My team
SUB: F.Morientes
Some light reading
Edwin Van der Sar
820 Career appearances
130 International caps
8 League titles
2 Champions Leagues
1 UEFA Cup
Best European Goalkeeper (2): 1995, 2009
PFA Premier League Team of the Year (3): 2006–07, 2008–09, 2010–11
UEFA Euro 2008 Team of the Tournament
UEFA Club Goalkeeper of the Year (1): 2009
Gary Kelly
531 Leeds United appearances (11 PL sesons)
51 International caps
PFA Team Of The Year: 1993-94, 1999-00
Ricardo Carvalho
467 Career appearances
75 International caps
6 League titles
5 Premier Cups (FA/Copa Del/Portugese)
1 Champions League
1 UEFA Cup
Portuguese League Footballer of the Year: 2002–03
UEFA Club Best Defender of the Year: 2003–04
UEFA Team of the Year: 2003–04
UEFA Euro Team of the Tournament: 2004
FIFA World Cup All-Star Team: 2006
Chelsea Players' Player of the Year: 2007–08
Martin Laursen
UEFA Champions League: 2002-03
Serie A: 2003-04
53 International caps
219 Career league appearances
Joan Capdevila
Over 300 La Liga appearances
60 International caps
FIFA World Cup: 2010
UEFA European Football Championship: 2008
Started both WC & EC finals
Edmilson
French League: 2001–02, 2002–03, 2003–04
La Liga: 2004–05, 2005–06
UEFA Champions League: 2005–06
FIFA World Cup: 2002
Started both CL and WC finals
Ze Roberto
84 caps for Brazil
Over 100 league apps for Bayern Munich & Bayer Leverkusen
Fußball-Bundesliga: 2003, 2005, 2006, 2008
La Liga: 1997
Juan Roman Riquelme
Career league appearances: 377, League goals: 92
15 league goals, 2004/05
12 league goals, 2005/06
Argentine Footballer of the Year: 2000, 2001, 2008
South American Footballer of the Year: 2001
La Liga: Don Balón Award (Foreign Player of the Year) 2004–05
FIFA Confederations Cup: Silver Ball 2005
Copa Libertadores: Most Valuable Player 2007
Steve McManaman
Career apps: 579, Goals: 80
142 assists for Liverpool in 364 appearances
PFA Team of the Year: 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998
Two time Champions League winner, Champions League Final Man of the Match: 2000
Marc Overmars
Career apps: 398, Goals: 78
Netherlands caps: 78, Goals: 17
Four league titles, one Champions League
Thierry Henry
Career apps: 694, Goals: 321, Assists: 166
PFA Team of the Year (6): 2000-01, 2001-02, 2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05, 2005-06
Premier League Golden Boot (4): 2001–02, 2003–04, 2004–05, 2005–06.
UEFA Team of the Year (5): 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006
All time France top goalscorer
F.Morientes
573 Career appearances, 204 goals
47 Spain caps, 27 goals
3 League titles
3 Champions Leagues (and final appearances)
UEFA Forward of the Year: 2004
UEFA Champions League: Top Scorer 2004
SUB: F.Morientes
Some light reading
Edwin Van der Sar
820 Career appearances
130 International caps
8 League titles
2 Champions Leagues
1 UEFA Cup
Best European Goalkeeper (2): 1995, 2009
PFA Premier League Team of the Year (3): 2006–07, 2008–09, 2010–11
UEFA Euro 2008 Team of the Tournament
UEFA Club Goalkeeper of the Year (1): 2009
Gary Kelly
531 Leeds United appearances (11 PL sesons)
51 International caps
PFA Team Of The Year: 1993-94, 1999-00
Ricardo Carvalho
467 Career appearances
75 International caps
6 League titles
5 Premier Cups (FA/Copa Del/Portugese)
1 Champions League
1 UEFA Cup
Portuguese League Footballer of the Year: 2002–03
UEFA Club Best Defender of the Year: 2003–04
UEFA Team of the Year: 2003–04
UEFA Euro Team of the Tournament: 2004
FIFA World Cup All-Star Team: 2006
Chelsea Players' Player of the Year: 2007–08
Martin Laursen
UEFA Champions League: 2002-03
Serie A: 2003-04
53 International caps
219 Career league appearances
Joan Capdevila
Over 300 La Liga appearances
60 International caps
FIFA World Cup: 2010
UEFA European Football Championship: 2008
Started both WC & EC finals
Edmilson
French League: 2001–02, 2002–03, 2003–04
La Liga: 2004–05, 2005–06
UEFA Champions League: 2005–06
FIFA World Cup: 2002
Started both CL and WC finals
Ze Roberto
84 caps for Brazil
Over 100 league apps for Bayern Munich & Bayer Leverkusen
Fußball-Bundesliga: 2003, 2005, 2006, 2008
La Liga: 1997
Juan Roman Riquelme
Career league appearances: 377, League goals: 92
15 league goals, 2004/05
12 league goals, 2005/06
Argentine Footballer of the Year: 2000, 2001, 2008
South American Footballer of the Year: 2001
La Liga: Don Balón Award (Foreign Player of the Year) 2004–05
FIFA Confederations Cup: Silver Ball 2005
Copa Libertadores: Most Valuable Player 2007
Steve McManaman
Career apps: 579, Goals: 80
142 assists for Liverpool in 364 appearances
PFA Team of the Year: 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998
Two time Champions League winner, Champions League Final Man of the Match: 2000
Marc Overmars
Career apps: 398, Goals: 78
Netherlands caps: 78, Goals: 17
Four league titles, one Champions League
Thierry Henry
Career apps: 694, Goals: 321, Assists: 166
PFA Team of the Year (6): 2000-01, 2001-02, 2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05, 2005-06
Premier League Golden Boot (4): 2001–02, 2003–04, 2004–05, 2005–06.
UEFA Team of the Year (5): 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006
All time France top goalscorer
F.Morientes
573 Career appearances, 204 goals
47 Spain caps, 27 goals
3 League titles
3 Champions Leagues (and final appearances)
UEFA Forward of the Year: 2004
UEFA Champions League: Top Scorer 2004
Tactics/Playstyle:
Rock of a defence, beginning with Francesco Toldo - near unbeatable at his Euro 2000 peak - protected by Juve's legendary fullback pair of Pessotto and Torricelli and a fearsome central pairing of two players with sublime technique in de Boer and Ayala. My defence is equally comfortable adopting a no-nonsense approach or playing their way out of trouble.
Solid midfield base of Jeremies and Vieira, with the versatile Scholl as the attacking midfielder. Jeremies will operate as my main destroyer, allowing Vieira more license to bomb forward alongside Scholl. In tougher games Vieira can be more positionally disciplined, staying back and helping Jeremies. Which leaves Scholl to play with a free role where he can drift around and cause havoc.
Variety on the wings, with Giuly providing the trickery and dribbling and Gonzalez the more direct approach - surging forward with pace and putting his crossing ability to good effect.
Up top Miroslav Klose will lead the line, using his renowned heading ability to smash home crosses from Gonzalez, as well as holding up the ball and creating space for Scholl and Giuly to exploit.
Player Profiles:
Francesco Toldo:
Part of a generation of outstanding Italian goalkeepers including Pagliuca, Buffon and Peruzzi; Toldo was the best of the lot circa 2000. He performed brilliantly all season,winning the Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year award and capping it off by producing a series of outstanding displays for Italy as the Azzuri reached the final of Euro 2000.
As the longtime Goalkeeper for Fiorentina and Inter, Toldo won 5 Coppa Italia's and 5 Serie A titles, as well as the Champions League in 2010 (although he was only on the bench by this time).
Moreno Torricelli:
Juventus legend and part of the best defence in the world in the mid to late 90's. A player much loved by the fans for his guts and determination, Torricelli was able to play all accross the backline, but favoured right-back. Along with Pessotto, he appeared in 2 Champions League finals, winning in 1996. He also won Serie A 3 times, the Coppa Italia twice and the UEFA Cup.
Roberto Ayala:
One of the best defenders in Argentine history, the silky smooth Roberto Ayala played in 3 World Cups, winning 115 caps (63 as captain). He spent his best years at Valencia, where he helped them to reached the 2001 Champions League final and win the La Liga title on two occassions, as well as the 2004 UEFA Cup. An intelligent reader of the game, Ayala was cool, calm and collected regardless of the situation.
Frank de Boer:
A product of the famed Ajax youth academy, former Netherlands captain Frank de Boer was one of the best defenders of his generation. An influential, assured defender with exemplary distribution. de Boer possessed one of the finest left feet in football and was capable of pin-point passing up the flanks from deep inside his own half. He won 112 caps for the Netherlands, appeared in World Cup and European Championship semi-finals, was a European Champion with Ajax and won league titles in Holland and Spain.
Gianluca Pessotto:
Another legendary Juve fullback and versatile player, Pessotto could play either side (as well as in midfield) but favoured the left.
He was part of the Juve team that reached 3 consecutive Champions League finals (though he didn't feature in 1997) and his trophy haul includes 4 Serie A titles, 1 Coppa Italia and the Champions League. He was also a beaten finalist in the 2000 European Championships.
Patrick Vieira:
Legendary Arsenal midfielder, captain of the Invincibles team and French World Cup and European Championship winner. 107 caps for France, appearences in 2 World Cup finals, 4 FA Cup medals, title wins in Italy and England. There's not much more that needs to be said about this man.
Jens Jeremies:
Solid and dependable tough tackling German midfielder, won the Champions League with Bayern Munich as one of their most important players, along with 6 Bundesliga titles. Jeremies was also a member of the German team which reached the 2002 World Cup final, also representing the national team in the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 and 2004 European Championships.
Mehmet Scholl:
One of the most decorated players in German football history and a supremely gifted attacking midfielder, Scholl possessed pace, mesmeric dribbling skills and an eye for goal; as well as being handy at set pieces. He was a key part of Germany's Euro 96 winning team and an integral player at Bayern Munich; where he won 8 Bundesliga titles, the Champions League and the UEFA Cup.
Ludovic Giuly:
Captain of the Monaco team that made it to the final of the Champions League in 2004 and winner of 2 La Liga titles and the CL with Barcelona. Able to play as a wide midfielder or as a second striker, Giuly possessed great pace, dribbling skills and an eye for goal; scoring 47 goals in 184 appearences for Monaco and 19 in 85 for Barcelona.
Kily Gonzalez:
Former Valencia and Inter winger who won over 50 caps for Argentina and appeared in two consecutive Champions League finals. Gonzalez was an expert crosser of the ball and a player gifted with explosive pace, a stinging shot and a tireless work rate.
Miroslav Klose:
The second highest goalscorer in World Cup finals history and a born finisher. Big, strong with a good touch, great leap and fantastic heading ability; all 5 of his WC 2002 goals were scored with his head. Klose has maintained a ratio of nearly 1 goal in every 2 games during his career, as well as smashing home 63 goals in 113 games for Germany, for whom he appeared in World Cup and European Championship finals.
Substitute:
Alen Boksic:
Technically gifted forward in the Dennis Bergkamp mould, able to play up front or as a second striker. Pacy, strong and a good finisher, Boksic was a part of Croatia's golden generation and Serie A winner with Juventus. He also finished as top scorer in France with Marseille, where he won the league and Champions League, earning him 4th place in the Ballon d'Or in 1993.
Gary Pallister said of Boksic, "He was so difficult to mark. I knew then what he could do and all the United players were speaking about him after the match [Juve 1 - 0 Utd, 1997]"
Considering no one liked my 4-3-3, I'll go for a new formation in the next match.
I'm thoroughly confused. Need opinions here, which one works better?
OR
OR
The second one IMO.
That's two cracking teams from Cling Bak and Jayvin. Are they playing each other?
I would have Gattuso right and Scholes left on the first one. Okocha continues to look odd on the left which tips it somewhat towards the second...
Other than that, I think you hit on good formations for your players now but would pick one or the other subject to the opposition.
We're putting this on hold until Polaroid's one is finished.
At the risk of sounding like mole-man I thought your 4-3-3 was robust.
Don't think it makes a massive difference. In the flat four both of your wide midfielders will drift inside - Okocha especially while Ljungberg's best work was done in the channel between full-back and centre-half. Either way you've not got traditional touchline-huggers to give Yorke and Cole the crosses they'd prefer. I'd prefer the 4-4-2 though, Scholes and Gattuso at their peaks would be good enough to make that work.
Damn.
Oh well, the other one only has the 2 semi's and the final remaining. Shouldn't be too long.
Fine by me as Im going to be offline for a few days anyway - will post my team etc before leaving though
That's two cracking teams from Cling Bak and Jayvin. Are they playing each other?
I think Cling Bak's midfield would work quite well, Ze Roberto and Edmilson providing the legs and workrate, allowing Riquelme to be at his best.
I am pissed off about my match with Antohan
The voting was ridiculous!
The voting was ridiculous!
I thought my explanation of my vote was a fair one.
Yeah I think it helps when people explain themselves rather than blindly voting.
I shall be starting Salas in future. I had lost the game before I brought him on. I think 22 - 9 was silly though and very unfair.
It's a difficult one because at every level you both have relative pluses and minuses. I would probably have Riquelme but with your DMs, for instance.
Same across the board. I reckon you could make up a superb 11 with 5-6 players from each side. But neither side looks far off from being at that level. Very even contest.
That's the key mate. Ortega wasn't a good idea and by the time you switched it was game over.
Which brings me to the point I was making on the thread (see next post, I'm trying to avoid long-winded rambling posts as they upset Snow
).I think we should keep the op as it starts off and, if tactics change, put a big sign between the two teamsheets stating: "THIS IS HOW THE GAME STARTED. TACTICS HAVE CHANGED SINCE AT <INSERT VOTE COUNT>, SEE BELOW" (would spare you work as well
).I agree most come on and check the two teamsheets and unless told they'll just vote on that basis. The problem is:
1) The discussions thereafter stop making any sense
- By the time I entered TB vs Dan the tactics had changed, so half the thread was lost on me ("Ronaldo no longer feels isolated" - I had no idea how he had been isolated). I still don't know if Brian had a poor start or a meltdown after going gung-ho.
- TR sounds very upset. To be honest, the final teams were much closer than the voting indicates (I still think I was better though ). It was mainly his start with Ortega and Rui Costa which didn't really fly and -paradoxically- made me adopt a very effective and balanced approach at the same time. Wham bam, game over before he did anything to revert that.
- If you start a game badly it can cost you, and that should be reflected in the game's progress. If tactics are changed halfway through a game, newcoming voters should be able to assess "OK, this guys have played like this for half the game and now are doing this... Who wins the two halves overall?"
Thoughts?
Works for me, I'll try it out next time and see how things go.
TEAM ROOD
SUB: Roberto Di Matteo
Shay Given: Ireland’s most capped player and still one of the best keepers in England.
2 time PL Team Of The Year (‘02&’06).
Roberto Carlos: The best full back in this draft by far and arguably the greatest full back of all time. Known for both defensive and attacking brilliance plus legendary dead ball specialist
UEFA Defender OTY ‘02 / World Cup Allstar Team ‘98&’02
Jaime Carragher: Always Mr.Dependable when called upon by club and country
PL TOTY '06 / CL Winner and Runner Up / Premier League = feck ALL
William Gallas: Defensive rock for Chelsea, Arsenal and France for many years – always known as a strong, speedy defender who can deal with the quickest of attackers.
2 time PL TOTY (‘03&’06) / 2 x PL Winner
Stephen Carr: His peak was at the start of his career with Spurs, knows for his tireless running for both attacking and defensive duties on the right side of the pitch.
2 time PL TOTY ‘01&’03
Pep Guardiola:He is the blueprint for all Barca’s current success; Xavi, Iniesta and Fàbregas have all stated that he was their role model and hero.
Euro Team Of The Tournament 1992 & 2000 / 6 x La Liga / 2 x Euro Cups etc
Dino Baggio: Will look to break up the opposition in midfielder, big game player who often saved his goals for the biggest stage and got his name on the scoresheet in two UEFA finals and also in the World Cup. Was a regular for the national team ahead of the likes of Donadoni and Albertini in their prime.
3 times UEFA Cup Winner / WC'94 Runner Up.
Bernd Schneider: Earned the nickname "The White Brazilian" for his dribbling and passing skills as well as his dead ball accuracy. A vital part of teams that reached World Cup and Champions League Finals.
Rudi Völler said: "Bernd was a great footballer, who produced magic for Germany and Leverkusen…”
Rivaldo: One of the greatest players of all time, won everything from World Cup to Champions League to Ballon D’or, plus has an award that no other player in this draft can claim, Uzbek League Top Scorer 2009! An unstoppable attacking player who could win games all on his own.
Michael Owen: Awarded the Ballon D’or in 2001, at his peak his movement was unrivaled and he was considered the deadliest finisher on the planet. Scored one of the all time greatest World Cup goals.
Twice winner of the PL Golden Boot, he was also selected in the PL Team Of The Decade.
Diego Milito A prolific and consistent center-forward, statistically averaged just over a goal every two appearances. Pivotal in Inter's recent treble winning season and his two goals in the Champions League Final gave him international recognition as one of the world's most effective front men.
Serie A and UEFA Footballer Of The Year 2010. Italian and Champions League Winner etc.
Tactics:
My team features not one but two Ballon D'or winners and when we are talking about players at their peak, there is no greater honour. Add to that a sack full of World Cup, European and domestic medals plus a plethora of individual honours spread all around my legendary players.
We set up with a midfield diamond involving Guardiola holding to protect the already strong central defensive partnership of Gallas and Carragher. My fullbacks will both be encouraged to get forward to exploit the space behind my opponents wide players.
My star player is Rivaldo and I have given him a free role behind the deadly strike force where he can provide both goals and assists. Baggio and Schneider are complete midfielders who will add value to both the defensive and creative side of the team.
Owen will be instructeded to hang off the shoulder of the last defender and use his speed to get in behind while Milito keeps them busy in the air - there are sure to be chances created by the likes of Rivaldo, Roberto Carlos and Schneider and these two only need a few half chances to convert to a bag full of goals.
SUB: Roberto Di Matteo
Shay Given: Ireland’s most capped player and still one of the best keepers in England.
2 time PL Team Of The Year (‘02&’06).
Roberto Carlos: The best full back in this draft by far and arguably the greatest full back of all time. Known for both defensive and attacking brilliance plus legendary dead ball specialist
UEFA Defender OTY ‘02 / World Cup Allstar Team ‘98&’02
Jaime Carragher: Always Mr.Dependable when called upon by club and country
PL TOTY '06 / CL Winner and Runner Up / Premier League = feck ALL
William Gallas: Defensive rock for Chelsea, Arsenal and France for many years – always known as a strong, speedy defender who can deal with the quickest of attackers.
2 time PL TOTY (‘03&’06) / 2 x PL Winner
Stephen Carr: His peak was at the start of his career with Spurs, knows for his tireless running for both attacking and defensive duties on the right side of the pitch.
2 time PL TOTY ‘01&’03
Pep Guardiola:He is the blueprint for all Barca’s current success; Xavi, Iniesta and Fàbregas have all stated that he was their role model and hero.
Euro Team Of The Tournament 1992 & 2000 / 6 x La Liga / 2 x Euro Cups etc
Dino Baggio: Will look to break up the opposition in midfielder, big game player who often saved his goals for the biggest stage and got his name on the scoresheet in two UEFA finals and also in the World Cup. Was a regular for the national team ahead of the likes of Donadoni and Albertini in their prime.
3 times UEFA Cup Winner / WC'94 Runner Up.
Bernd Schneider: Earned the nickname "The White Brazilian" for his dribbling and passing skills as well as his dead ball accuracy. A vital part of teams that reached World Cup and Champions League Finals.
Rudi Völler said: "Bernd was a great footballer, who produced magic for Germany and Leverkusen…”
Rivaldo: One of the greatest players of all time, won everything from World Cup to Champions League to Ballon D’or, plus has an award that no other player in this draft can claim, Uzbek League Top Scorer 2009!
An unstoppable attacking player who could win games all on his own.Michael Owen: Awarded the Ballon D’or in 2001, at his peak his movement was unrivaled and he was considered the deadliest finisher on the planet. Scored one of the all time greatest World Cup goals.
Twice winner of the PL Golden Boot, he was also selected in the PL Team Of The Decade.
Diego Milito A prolific and consistent center-forward, statistically averaged just over a goal every two appearances. Pivotal in Inter's recent treble winning season and his two goals in the Champions League Final gave him international recognition as one of the world's most effective front men.
Serie A and UEFA Footballer Of The Year 2010. Italian and Champions League Winner etc.
Tactics:
My team features not one but two Ballon D'or winners and when we are talking about players at their peak, there is no greater honour. Add to that a sack full of World Cup, European and domestic medals plus a plethora of individual honours spread all around my legendary players.
We set up with a midfield diamond involving Guardiola holding to protect the already strong central defensive partnership of Gallas and Carragher. My fullbacks will both be encouraged to get forward to exploit the space behind my opponents wide players.
My star player is Rivaldo and I have given him a free role behind the deadly strike force where he can provide both goals and assists. Baggio and Schneider are complete midfielders who will add value to both the defensive and creative side of the team.
Owen will be instructeded to hang off the shoulder of the last defender and use his speed to get in behind while Milito keeps them busy in the air - there are sure to be chances created by the likes of Rivaldo, Roberto Carlos and Schneider and these two only need a few half chances to convert to a bag full of goals.
While the other draft is doing their picks we'll get Group C's games out of the way, hopefully we'll get Group D's games done tomorrow too. Just better that everyone's had at least one game.
Bench: Santiago Solari.
Hans-Jörg Butt:
Twice champions league runner up, lived in the shadow of Kahn and Lehmann but still managed to have a decent career at club level.
Paulo Ferreira:
His peak is probably his 2003-2006 years in which he won the PL twice, CL once among other stuff, solid full back.
Fabio Cannavaro:
Very solid centre back, Ballon d'Or winner, one of the only centrebacks to win this ever. He more or less won every individual award available this year so I'd say it's safe to assume this is his peak.
Carlos Marchena:
Big part of Spains defensive unit during the 2008 EC where they only conceeded two goals, due to this he earned a spot in the team of the tournament, also featured a lot for Valencia during his 9 year stint where they managed to win the Spanish league twice.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst:
Originally a midfielder, however he was turned into a left back by Rijkaard at Barcelona where he won two league titles as well as a CL.
Ruben Baraja:
El Pipo. Complete midfielder, and I mean that in the sense that he was a great tackler with decent passing as well as a nose for goals. He was even Valencias topscorer during the 2001/2002 season. If I was to pick a period where he peaked it would be 2001-2004 where he picked up 1 Uefa Cup and 2 Spanish titles of note. During this period he scored a goal every fifth game, which is a decent record for a central midfielder.
Phillip Cocu:
Another midfielder who has the engine and ability to play in a midfield two. His abilities are more defensive oriented than Baraja imo, and he'll sit slightly deeper. Almost 300 games for FC Barcelona, he was the foreign player with most games for the club before Messi reached and passed him during this season.
Pavel Nedved:
Another Ballon d'Or winner. One of them players who could do anything with a ball with both feet. He was an beast between the years 2002-2004 (and well he was very good outsite that time span as well) but during those years he was one of the best players on the planet.
Hasan Salihamidzic:
6 German titles to his name as well as four cups and one Champions League. Quick winger with great crossing accuracy, very strong mentally as well which is important when coming across some of the great full backs in this tournament. Lastly he is also tall and somewhat strong in the air (especially compared to other wingers) and thus he'll be a danger to contend with for opposing defenses whenever a corner or a freekick appears.
Simão:
Very comfortable with the ball at his feet (like every other winger out of Portugal, minus Bebe). Can take a cracking freekick and has a brilliant strike on his right foot as well. Can play up front as well if the need arise.
Filippo Inzaghi:
Second most prolific striker ever in European competitions (4 goals less than Raul at 74), AC Milan's topscorer in international competitions, also holds two hattrick records (10 in Serie A and 3 in Europe (shared with Owen)). Two times Champions League winner with AC Milan, was named MotM in 2007 as well. He'll bang them in for me, no doubt.
Small notes:
People are probably bored of reading by now so I'll keep this short, Baraja and Cocu will obviously form my midfield partnership, Cocu will play the more defensive role and Baraja will have more license to attack. Nedved will be allowed to do what he pleases really.
Tried to keep this as short as possible since most people won't bother reading it if there is too much text.
You probably have the most players I was planning/hoping to get
Nice midfield triangle you've got going there.
Whats happening with this then
The United Legends tournament finishes today, so i assume we can start this up again tomorrow once everyone has submitted their tactics/gameplan?