How does the matchday thread work then? I'm new to this. Do people just post player profiles along with tactics and then people just vote?
The Redcafe Champions League Draft
- Thread starter Theon
- Start date
Yeah, plus you and the opposing manager can thrash out tactics etc and ideas about how the game will pan out as much as you want in the match thread.
Nahealai FC
Player Profiles
Oliver KahnRegarded as being one of the best goalkeepers of all-time, Kahn is excellent last-line of defence. Capable of extraordinary acrobatic saves, Kahn’s main strength lay with his astonishing presence in 1v1 situations. He’s the only goalkeeper to win the Man of the Match award in a Champions League Final following his heroics in Bayern’s win in 2001, and still the only goalkeeper to win the Golden Ball (Best Player award) at a FIFA World Cup after his imperious goalkeeping in 2002. Legend.
Denis Irwin
Irwin was not called “Mr. Dependable” for nothing. In fact, you could count the number of poor/average games Irwin had at Old Trafford on one hand. Irwin’s game was built on his tremendous anticipation and wonderful positional skills. Solid as a rock defensively and clinical in the final third, Irwin is a fine option to have on the right-wing. One of the finest two-footed players of his generation, Alan Hansen once said, that given a choice of full-backs to have on his all-time team, he’d pick Denis Irwin at left-back and Denis Irwin at right-back. Guaranteed to be an 8/10 performer, and capable of nullifying many of the wingers in the draft.
Carlos Marchena
World and European champion with the all-conquering Spanish national team, Marchena is an ultra-experienced defender. Marchena closed off a fine Euro 2008 campaign when he was chosen by UEFA at centre-back in their Team of the Tournament at Euro 2008. Strong in the tackle and comfortable in possession, Marchena can also play in the heart of midfield, and has a good goalscoring record from both positions (1, 2). Another team captain to form part of my squad, Marchena can lead by example beside other captains such as Kahn, Couto, Xavi, Ballack, Juninho and Raúl. Marchena also holds a FIFA international record of 52 consecutive games unbeaten with his national team.
Fernando Couto
With over 100 caps for Portugal, as well as playing for European heavyweights such as Barcelona, Lazio, Porto and Parma, Couto was a resolute defender in the South American mould. Physically and dominant and with pace to match it, Couto was a key member of Barcelona’s 1997 La Liga winning side, as well as Lazio’s famous team around the turn of the millennium and Parma’s UEFA Cup winning side. Captain of Portugal and Lazio simultaneously, Couto was an inspirational leader. Indeed his performances four years earlier at Euro 2000 were even better when he was placed second overall in clearances and third overall in successful blocks. Despite his size, Couto was known for his graceful skills and surging runs from deep, which Busquets can naturally cover. He’s also a huge threat from set-pieces which will be expertly taken by Juninho, Irwin, Xavi and Ballack.
Eric Abidal
Another hugely-decorated member of my squad, Abidal can operate at centre-back or left-back. Known for his anticipation and reading of the game, Abidal is an elegant defender whom is extremely comfortable in possession. His natural understanding with Xavi and Busquets will be invaluable.
Bixente Lizarazu
When you think of the best left-backs of the Champions League era, Lizarazu is one of the first names that immediately springs to mind. Excellent in defence and attack, he was rarely bettered for both club and country. Lizarazu’s legacy is summed up with the fact he was the first player to hold World and European titles simultaneously, both with the national team and club side (France – World Cup ’98 & Euro 2000; Bayern – Champions League 2001 & Intercontinental Cup 2001). He complements Irwin on the opposite flank brilliantly.
Sergio Busquets
Busquets is the premiere player of his type in the world, and up there with the best of all-time. In a team which likes the full-backs to get forward, Busquets’ role is vital. Majestic in possession, imperious anticipation and extraordinary defensively, not to mention incredible at passing between the opposition’s midfield lines, Busquets is the archetype defensive midfielder-cum-center-back. A major part of the unprecedented success of both Spain and Barcelona can be attributed to Busquets and his presence in my side is significant.
Xavi
The team’s “chess player”. In football, many things occur through luck or by accident, but Xavi is the antidote to that philosophy. He sees the game ten steps ahead of everyone else. Great teams need great players, and Xavi has been the heartbeat of arguably the best club side and best national team of all-time. Precision personified, he’s almost without equal in his position. He specialises in finding space where there simply isn’t any, and his understanding with Busquets (1, 2, 3), in particular, will see both men prosper.
Michael Ballack
The outstanding complete midfielder of his generation, Ballack was unstoppable for much of the 2000s, for both club and country. Germany’s voyage to the World Cup Final in 2002 can be largely attributed to two players: Kahn and Ballack, both of whom feature prominently in my XI. Defensively brilliant, physically imposing, aerially dominant, two-footed, technically outstanding and possessing a great engine, Ballack was a tour de force. His eye for goal from midfield is legendary and his leadership skills in a team full of natural leaders will make him fit right in. He was the full package. The German completes one of the best midfields in the draft.
Juninho Pernambucano
A cult hero of the Champions League after his exploits with Lyon over eight seasons, Juninho is a fantastic asset for any team. Famous for his outrageous free-kicks, Juninho’s game was about much more than that. Great vision and a fantastic eye for a pass/assist, he was creator-in-chief for a Lyon side that won 7 consecutive Ligue 1 titles and more than held their own in Europe. 40 caps for Brazil around the time they were World champions, Juninho’s technical quality could decide the tightest of games.
Raúl
The top goalscorer in the history of the UEFA Champions League with 71 goals and top goalscorer in Real Madrid history with 323 goals in all competitions. Three-time winner of the competition makes him one of the most decorated in the draft. Comfortable as a striker or in a withdrawn role, Raúl is dangerous from anywhere around the box. Technically brilliant and extremely intelligent, he’ll be very difficult to nullify for 90 minutes. Another natural leader who’ll be invaluable in the draft.
Ruud van Nistelrooy
One of the best finishers the game has seen in the past twenty years, van Nistelrooy is third in the top goalscorers charts in UEFA Champions League history (56 goals). One of my non-tournament winners, he has built a reputation as being a single-minded goalscorer (like that’s a bad thing!) but his game is more well-rounded than that. van Nistelrooy’s prowess in front of goal is confirmed with the wide-ranging type of goals he scored: right-foot, left-foot, headers, volleys, back-to-goal, and individual efforts (1, 2), he did it all. Capable of exquisite pieces of skill and physically imposing, van Nistelrooy is comfortable as a lone striker or with a partner. His Real Madrid partnership with Raúl plundered plenty of goals for both players, and it will take a good defence to keep them both quiet in this draft.
Good write-ups lads.
Is there a game kicking-off tomorrow?
Top class write up Nahealai, and yeah Snow vs Fergus kicks off tomorrow.
Seeing as I've had feck all feedback on how to organise the match threads, we'll stick with the original idea - post all your arguments as one post in this thread and I'll quote it into the matchday OP.
So, 1) Formation on footballuser 2) player profiles/tactical write up/etc
The game will be kicking off around 10am-11am so the arguments should be posted way before that.
Seeing as I've had feck all feedback on how to organise the match threads, we'll stick with the original idea - post all your arguments as one post in this thread and I'll quote it into the matchday OP.
So, 1) Formation on footballuser 2) player profiles/tactical write up/etc
The game will be kicking off around 10am-11am so the arguments should be posted way before that.
Well there seemed to be some appetite to PM you the tactics/formation graphic, but in the interests of space, keep the player profiles in this thread (they could be copied over when creating the thread).
No word of Snow today. I've done profiles but think he might expand on them slightly. If he's not on before the morning i'll just post what i've got.
A bit of technical assistance if you's don't mind. How the hell do you do the text links to youtube videos?
A bit of technical assistance if you's don't mind. How the hell do you do the text links to youtube videos?
No idea mate but good luck tommorow, either way one good team with some great players is going out!
Just highlight the relevant text and click on the chain link button to insert the relevant youtube/video link.
Cheers Gio. Some fecking about i did trying to work that out!
Nae bother. One game a day is a good idea. Gives each match a bit of gravitas and makes it the centre of attention.
Okay, I'm cool with this if thats what you guys want to do.
At some point post them in here as well (edit the player profile post and copy in the stuff you PM me) - that way we have all the tactics in one place if someone wants to look through the thread at some point.
Everyone alright with this then?
1) Player profiles in here
2) Formation/tactics PM to me - so that your opponent cant see them before kick off
3) After kick off at some stage please edit your player profile post and copy in what you PMed me
Perfect.
That's the finest, mate.
Sweet
Note
This draft is based on players at their peak.
Tactics
Team Snow has players that know each other inside out, the most solid defense in the entire draft, a balanced midfield and 3 of the most devastating attacking players of the last 10 years. When at their peak Ronaldinho and Kaka were virtually unplayable and should be the key to victory here.
Team Fergus’son does not have the same familiarity, is devoid of any real width and the creativity needed to break down our impenetrable defence. Michael Tarnat inparticular should struggle to cope with the movement of our skilful interchangeable attackers. Our side should be able to soak up any pressure and launch devestating counter attacks with quick supply from Mendieta and 4 devestatingly quick attackers.
When considering both sets of players at their peak, there should really be only be one winner.
Team
Cech
Peak – 2004-07: Conceding 15 and 22 goals in successive premier league seasons. Kept a record 21 clean sheets in 04/05. Voted best keeper in the world in 2005. 3 times voted UEFA’s best goalkeeper.
Calming influence and brilliant shot stopper. Probably the best keeper in the world at his peak prior to receiving the terrible head injury where he hasn't been quite the same since.
Gallas
Peak – 2001-05: World class defender at his peak with 84 caps for France. Fantastic athlete, with strength, anticipation and reading of the game. Played all across the back 4 for Chelsea under Ranieri and Mourinho. Formed solid partnerships in the back 4 with Terry and Carvalho. Out and out defender who generally always won his individual battle.
Terry
Peak – 2004-09. Not the most popular chap due to his various misdemeanours but no doubting his ability as a defender. Probably more respected across Europe where he was voted 4 times into the UEFA team of the year and 3 times UEFA best defender. His individual highlight domestically was winning the PFA Player of the year in 04/05. Inspirational and brave leader who was also a significant threat in the opposition box.
Carvalho
Peak – 2003-08
Voted UEFA’s best defender in 2003/04 when winning CL with Porto. Formed a telepathic and record breaking partnership with Terry. Superb reader of the game and tackler. Also knows all the dark arts of defending.
Cole
Peak – 2002-11
Another guy that will never win any popularity contests but still pretty much accepted as the best left back of his time. 100 caps for England. A machine going forward and in defence. A model of consistency throughout his career.
Albelda
Peak – 2001-05
Valencia stalwart who was a key player in guiding the club to 2 La Liga titles, reaching the final of 2 Champions League finals and winning 1 UEFA cup. Club captain for over 10 years. Competive defensive minded midfielder and a leader.
Mendieta
Peak – 1999-2001
Inspiration of the side that reached 2 successive Champions League Finals. Voted the best midfielder in the Champions League 2 years in a row. Complete all round midfielder and technically outstanding.
Ozil
Peak – 2012 – Present
One of the most exciting young players in the world. Has already starred at the U21 European Championships and Euro 2012. Silky smooth on the ball and a strong ball carrier. Can play behind the striker or drifting in from the right as shown here to good effect.
Kaka
Peak – 2005-09
At his peak had one of the most significant impacts on the Champions League in recent times. FIFA world player of the year and Balon D’or winner in 2007. Inspired Milan to CL success that season and ended as top scorer. 3 times selected in UEFA team of the year.
A painful reminder of one of the times he tore United a new one.
Ronaldinho
Peak – 2004-07
FIFA world player of the year 2 years in a row. Considered 1 of the best players of his generation. One of the most skilful to ever play the game. His absolute very best has probably only been bettered by Messi in the last 15 years.
Produced 1 of the most memorable individual performances of recent years in a 3-0 crushing of Real Madrid in 2005.
Torres
Peak - 2007-10
Phenomenal goalscoring record for Liverpool scoring 65 in 102 league games, and considered the most dangerous forward in the world at this time. 3rd in FIFA world player of the year in 2008. Devestating pace and finishing ability and strong in the air.
Nice man, looks awesome!
Just to be clear though (because I know Cutch was one of those who wanted to PM) you could have PMed the tactics to me if you wanted, just so that it wasn't shown before the game.
Fergus has PMed me his, so we'll kick it off tomorrow morning sometime around 10am
Just to be clear though (because I know Cutch was one of those who wanted to PM) you could have PMed the tactics to me if you wanted, just so that it wasn't shown before the game.
Fergus has PMed me his, so we'll kick it off tomorrow morning sometime around 10am
A bit pedantic but I'm pretty sure he was dropped after a disastrous first game and didn't feature again.
Are you guys waiting with your tactics so the opponent doesn't see it or do people just not make any here?
So they don't see it.
After the games they will be added in here, so they're all in one place etc.
Nahealai vs Gio tomorrow - so either PM me the line up/tactics or post them in here if you don't mind the opponent seeing them
After the games they will be added in here, so they're all in one place etc.
Nahealai vs Gio tomorrow - so either PM me the line up/tactics or post them in here if you don't mind the opponent seeing them
Edwin Van Der Sar:
Don’t need to introduce this man here I think. Always dependable and a massive stalwart behind the back four.
Rafael:
I know this draft looks at players at their pick so picking a player we’re likely to see improve over the next few seasons is perhaps odd, but I think he has shown the last season that he is more than able and equally good if not better than most of right backs around, especially his attacking play, which leads me to why I picked him. I’ve no fear that him and Becks wouldn’t work together, in fact I think they’d suit each other perfectly. Rafael will bomb forward and will always be able to depend on Becks working hard to help him out if he is caught out opposed to most other wingers who’d just stand and moan.
Ramos:
Most people know him as a cnut, and yes he is. Equally good as right back and centre back, this works for him and my team very much. I can depend on him having great tactical knowledge of how to shield the goal if he is acting as a right back (Say in a scenario where Rafael is on one of his runs, and the opposition launches a counter attack). Rock solid at the back for Real Madrid, over the past years he has turned into their most vital defender and leads from the back.
Pique:
Another one I barely need to introduce, people know him. As good a defender as he is with a ball at his feet. He’ll suit Ramos perfectly fine as he has shown winning the Euro 2012 together with him in central defense.
Capdevila:
Another offensively minded full back, which is a vital part for me considering my wingers aren’t starting out as offensively as in most other formations. Euro and World Cup winner, being a guaranteed starter for both campaigns.
Beckham:
Hardly need to introduce him either really. Fantastic striker of the ball, one of the best not only in this draft but ever. Hard working too, a big reason why we have been able to keep playing two central midfielders due to his hard work.
Keane:
Captain. Dominating, I’ve no fear that he and Effenberg won’t be able to hold their own in a midfield two against most midfields.
Effenberg:
Big part of the Bayern Munchen team of the late 90ies & early 00ies. I might just have two midfielders, but they are both so dominating, aggressive and powerful that it will feel like I’ve got more. One thing my central midfield for sure won’t lack is courage and will.
Overmars:
Incredibly fast and two footed. Will always be a constant threat down the left wing, more offensively minded than Becks which means Capdevila will play a with a slightly more careful approach to things.
Piero:
Legendary striker. 3rd most scoring Italian ever, joint 4th for their national team. Immense at free kicks too, where he is the leading Italian goalscorer. The goalkeepers won’t stand a chance with him and Becks waiting to take a freekick anywhere near the goal. His partnership with Trezeguet will work wonders too as they have shown in reality. 2007/2008 they finished as the two top goalscorers in Italy, 21 goals for Del Piero & 20 for Trezeguet.
Trezeguet:
Highest ever foreign goal scorer for Juventus at 168. Euro 2000 winner with a golden goal, which shows he knows how to score even in high pressure situations such as a Euro final and especially an online football draft.
Higuain
Pipita. My super sub. Great finisher, one of the better and clinical ones around right now.
Partnerships:
Rafael & Becks:
As I’ve mentioned before they would work so good together, both immense crossers of the ball. In the first game they’ll be up against a very attack minded Marcelo which would give me plenty of room on my right side. Rafael is great at offering help to the right midfielder in front of him so he’ll be perfect foil for overlapping Becks. Becks will also be told to use Overmars speed and send diagonal through balls for him to sprint onto.
Ramos and Pique:
Muscle and brain. Quite apt, not to say Ramos isn’t a great defender and very skilled at reading the game, but I expect them to have a similar relationship to Vidic and Ferdinand. They’ve played together before to great effect with the Spanish national team so I have no reason to worry here.
Keane and Effenberg:
Another vital part of my team, they will have to work together - or it will fall apart. I’ve covered them in their respective posts, it’s really a throwback to the good old days of when midfielders were men and not pansies who would pass their way out of trouble (or something). Both are dangerous coming late into box and especially Effenberg knew how to score from range.
Del Piero and Trezeguet:
I’ll be trying to emulate their seasons together for Juve where they scored plenty of goals together, especially the 07/08 season, their first season back in Serie A after they both stayed and helped Juve regain promotion from Serie B.
Don’t need to introduce this man here I think. Always dependable and a massive stalwart behind the back four.
Rafael:
I know this draft looks at players at their pick so picking a player we’re likely to see improve over the next few seasons is perhaps odd, but I think he has shown the last season that he is more than able and equally good if not better than most of right backs around, especially his attacking play, which leads me to why I picked him. I’ve no fear that him and Becks wouldn’t work together, in fact I think they’d suit each other perfectly. Rafael will bomb forward and will always be able to depend on Becks working hard to help him out if he is caught out opposed to most other wingers who’d just stand and moan.
Ramos:
Most people know him as a cnut, and yes he is. Equally good as right back and centre back, this works for him and my team very much. I can depend on him having great tactical knowledge of how to shield the goal if he is acting as a right back (Say in a scenario where Rafael is on one of his runs, and the opposition launches a counter attack). Rock solid at the back for Real Madrid, over the past years he has turned into their most vital defender and leads from the back.
Pique:
Another one I barely need to introduce, people know him. As good a defender as he is with a ball at his feet. He’ll suit Ramos perfectly fine as he has shown winning the Euro 2012 together with him in central defense.
Capdevila:
Another offensively minded full back, which is a vital part for me considering my wingers aren’t starting out as offensively as in most other formations. Euro and World Cup winner, being a guaranteed starter for both campaigns.
Beckham:
Hardly need to introduce him either really. Fantastic striker of the ball, one of the best not only in this draft but ever. Hard working too, a big reason why we have been able to keep playing two central midfielders due to his hard work.
Keane:
Captain. Dominating, I’ve no fear that he and Effenberg won’t be able to hold their own in a midfield two against most midfields.
Effenberg:
Big part of the Bayern Munchen team of the late 90ies & early 00ies. I might just have two midfielders, but they are both so dominating, aggressive and powerful that it will feel like I’ve got more. One thing my central midfield for sure won’t lack is courage and will.
Overmars:
Incredibly fast and two footed. Will always be a constant threat down the left wing, more offensively minded than Becks which means Capdevila will play a with a slightly more careful approach to things.
Piero:
Legendary striker. 3rd most scoring Italian ever, joint 4th for their national team. Immense at free kicks too, where he is the leading Italian goalscorer. The goalkeepers won’t stand a chance with him and Becks waiting to take a freekick anywhere near the goal. His partnership with Trezeguet will work wonders too as they have shown in reality. 2007/2008 they finished as the two top goalscorers in Italy, 21 goals for Del Piero & 20 for Trezeguet.
Trezeguet:
Highest ever foreign goal scorer for Juventus at 168. Euro 2000 winner with a golden goal, which shows he knows how to score even in high pressure situations such as a Euro final and especially an online football draft.
Higuain
Pipita. My super sub. Great finisher, one of the better and clinical ones around right now.
Partnerships:
Rafael & Becks:
As I’ve mentioned before they would work so good together, both immense crossers of the ball. In the first game they’ll be up against a very attack minded Marcelo which would give me plenty of room on my right side. Rafael is great at offering help to the right midfielder in front of him so he’ll be perfect foil for overlapping Becks. Becks will also be told to use Overmars speed and send diagonal through balls for him to sprint onto.
Ramos and Pique:
Muscle and brain. Quite apt, not to say Ramos isn’t a great defender and very skilled at reading the game, but I expect them to have a similar relationship to Vidic and Ferdinand. They’ve played together before to great effect with the Spanish national team so I have no reason to worry here.
Keane and Effenberg:
Another vital part of my team, they will have to work together - or it will fall apart. I’ve covered them in their respective posts, it’s really a throwback to the good old days of when midfielders were men and not pansies who would pass their way out of trouble (or something). Both are dangerous coming late into box and especially Effenberg knew how to score from range.
Del Piero and Trezeguet:
I’ll be trying to emulate their seasons together for Juve where they scored plenty of goals together, especially the 07/08 season, their first season back in Serie A after they both stayed and helped Juve regain promotion from Serie B.
I haven't voted because I don't want to be biased.
I'll do my write-ups and stuff when I wake up tomorrow.
This game should be kicking off now, how long until you are ready to post me your formation Feeky?
Writing up my team as we speak.
Turning up late? Not a good start!
Player Profiles
Iker Casillas
FIFA World's Best Goalkeeper 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. IFFHS World's Best Goalkeeper 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. He has won both of those awards more than any goalkeeper ever. He's got the big-game temperament: everyone remembers the Champions League 2002 Final for Zidane, but at the other end Casillas - only a kid and years off his peak - made a string of remarkable saves late on. Outstanding in the one-on-one, like here, here, here, here and here, as well as his famous reflexes and penalty-saving expertise. Perhaps best summed up by the fact that there was a rumour Manchester City had bid £129m for him and it seemed pretty plausible, Casillas is one of the finest goalkeepers in history, has won everything in the game and is capable of winning matches almost on his own.
Darijo Srna
Arguably the finest crosser of a ball in world football, Srna is the most capped player in Croatian football history. Frequently amongst the top assisters in the Champions League, Srna provided an incredible 20 assists last season from wing-back. A sensational free-kick taker, Srna is one of the few wing-backs who can be said to be truly rock-solid in defence.
Lúcio
It's easy to forget now that he's back in Brazil, but Lúcio was perhaps the centre-back at his peak. Leverkusen's outstanding player on their way to the Champions League Final in 2002, Lúcio then spent 5 seasons at Bayern Munich, winning every trophy in Germany, before 3 at Inter where he was Mourinho's key lieutenant in the side that won it all. Superb at bursting out of defence, Lucio was also extremely strong in the one-on-one, frequently winning the ball from forwards running at pace.A beast in the air, adept on the ball, lightning fast and a big goal threat, Lúcio is a natural partner to Maldini at centre-back.
Paulo Maldini
The consensus greatest defender of his era, Maldini won the Champions League 5 times. Il Capitanowas one of the greatest readers of a game there has ever been - known for winning the ball through expert positioning rather than tackling, although he was a fine tackler when necessary. He was a graceful presence in possession coming out from the back and an absolute colossus in the air. Equally capable at left-back or centre-back, he slots in here on the left side of central defence.
Marcelo
My other wing-back is one whom Roberto Carlos called the world's best left-back and possessing "better technical ability than me." Praised too for his defensive skills by none other than Paulo Maldini, Marcelo is first-choice left-back for Brazil, and when fit has kept the £30m Fabio Coentrao out of the Real Madrid team. A tireless presence on the left-wing, Marcelo frequently bamboozles players with superb skill, renowned for his flicks and expert link-up play, Marcelo also uses his pace to great effect in defence, frequently cutting out attempted through balls, a strong winner of tackles and almost never getting caught in behind.
Didier Deschamps
Anchoring my midfield is the captain of the astonishing French team that won the 1998 World Cup and 2000 Euros, Deschamps saw success wherever he went. He captained Marseille to winning the 1993 Champions League, before moving to Juventus where he won the competition again in 1996, the same year he was awarded French Player of the Year over Zidane. Where there was success in the 1990's, Deschamps was there. Deschamps excelled at winning the ball, almost never gave it away and was indispensable to many teams that were not the same after he was gone.
Paul Scholes
Hailed by Zidane, Xavi and Guardiola as the greatest midfielder of his generation, by Messi as a "teacher" and by Sir Alex Ferguson as "the best player in England", Paul Scholes was an absolutely stunning footballer. "Scholes is the best central midfield player I have seen. He is a spectacular player who has everything. He can play the final pass, he can score, he is strong, he never gets knocked off the ball and he doesn't give possession away." - Xavi
Yaya Touré
The very definition of a box-to-box midfielder, Touré combines endless stamina with excellent running on the ball, excellent tackling and fine passing. Often seen gliding past players and playing the killer pass, Touré is just as adept at blocking opposition attacks. One of the world's best big-game players, Touré excelled for Barcelona in the 1009 Champions League Final at centre-back, before scoring in the 2012 FA Cup semi-finals and final for Manchester City as a midfielder, showing his remarkable range.
David Silva
One of the best playmakers in world football, it is testament to Silva's breathtaking abilities that he has forced his way into arguably the best international team in history. An ever-present in the Spanish team that won Euro 2012, Silva made the team of the tournament. Nicknamed Merlin by teammates for his passing skills and ball retention, Silva unlocks many a defence with his skill on the ball and passing ability. Comfortable on the wing, his real skill lies when he is placed behind the forwards with a strong midfield behind him, as such this line-up is perfect for maximising his phenomenal talent.
Wesley Sneijder
The UEFA Club Best Midfielder of 2010, Sneijder was the key player in the Inter team that won a historic treble. Sneijder possesses a terrific range of passing and is a constant goal threat from midfield. He is also a dead ball specialist and is perfect for terrorising tiring defences.
Dennis Bergkamp
One of the finest technical players ever, Bergkamp was amongst the best players of his whole generation. Schooled in Total Football, Bergkamp was comfortable anywhere, but excelled as the second striker. Runner-up in the Ballon d'Or in 1992 and 1993, Bergkamp was the top scorer in Euro 1992. Goals were not even the main strength of his game - his link-up play was unbelievable. The focal point of the Arsenal team that won the Double in 1998, Bergkamp scored some incredible goals whilst at the Gunners. Bergkamp is rated by most Arsenal fans as even better than the great Thierry Henry (see the comments here).
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Ah, Zlatan. What a glorious footballer. Winner of titles where he goes, Ibrahimovic is excellent in the air, strong and agile, plays well with his back to goal and boasts some of the best finishing, ision, passing and ball control around. Good for 163 goals in his last 257 games (including 35 goals for the last two seasons running) as well as double digit assists in each of his last 6 seasons, Ibrahimovic has famously won league titles in 9 of his last 10 seasons. Like Cristiano Ronaldo, once derided as not showing up on the big occasion, Zlatan silenced critics by scoring and dominating the Milan Derby, El Classico, various Champions League ties, and for Sweden at the 2012 Euros where he was named to the team of the tournament. A scorer of great goals and a great goalscorer, Ibrahimovic will form a natural partnership up front with Dennis Bergkamp.
Iker Casillas
FIFA World's Best Goalkeeper 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. IFFHS World's Best Goalkeeper 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. He has won both of those awards more than any goalkeeper ever. He's got the big-game temperament: everyone remembers the Champions League 2002 Final for Zidane, but at the other end Casillas - only a kid and years off his peak - made a string of remarkable saves late on. Outstanding in the one-on-one, like here, here, here, here and here, as well as his famous reflexes and penalty-saving expertise. Perhaps best summed up by the fact that there was a rumour Manchester City had bid £129m for him and it seemed pretty plausible, Casillas is one of the finest goalkeepers in history, has won everything in the game and is capable of winning matches almost on his own.
Darijo Srna
Arguably the finest crosser of a ball in world football, Srna is the most capped player in Croatian football history. Frequently amongst the top assisters in the Champions League, Srna provided an incredible 20 assists last season from wing-back. A sensational free-kick taker, Srna is one of the few wing-backs who can be said to be truly rock-solid in defence.
Lúcio
It's easy to forget now that he's back in Brazil, but Lúcio was perhaps the centre-back at his peak. Leverkusen's outstanding player on their way to the Champions League Final in 2002, Lúcio then spent 5 seasons at Bayern Munich, winning every trophy in Germany, before 3 at Inter where he was Mourinho's key lieutenant in the side that won it all. Superb at bursting out of defence, Lucio was also extremely strong in the one-on-one, frequently winning the ball from forwards running at pace.A beast in the air, adept on the ball, lightning fast and a big goal threat, Lúcio is a natural partner to Maldini at centre-back.
Paulo Maldini
The consensus greatest defender of his era, Maldini won the Champions League 5 times. Il Capitanowas one of the greatest readers of a game there has ever been - known for winning the ball through expert positioning rather than tackling, although he was a fine tackler when necessary. He was a graceful presence in possession coming out from the back and an absolute colossus in the air. Equally capable at left-back or centre-back, he slots in here on the left side of central defence.
Marcelo
My other wing-back is one whom Roberto Carlos called the world's best left-back and possessing "better technical ability than me." Praised too for his defensive skills by none other than Paulo Maldini, Marcelo is first-choice left-back for Brazil, and when fit has kept the £30m Fabio Coentrao out of the Real Madrid team. A tireless presence on the left-wing, Marcelo frequently bamboozles players with superb skill, renowned for his flicks and expert link-up play, Marcelo also uses his pace to great effect in defence, frequently cutting out attempted through balls, a strong winner of tackles and almost never getting caught in behind.
Didier Deschamps
Anchoring my midfield is the captain of the astonishing French team that won the 1998 World Cup and 2000 Euros, Deschamps saw success wherever he went. He captained Marseille to winning the 1993 Champions League, before moving to Juventus where he won the competition again in 1996, the same year he was awarded French Player of the Year over Zidane. Where there was success in the 1990's, Deschamps was there. Deschamps excelled at winning the ball, almost never gave it away and was indispensable to many teams that were not the same after he was gone.
Paul Scholes
Hailed by Zidane, Xavi and Guardiola as the greatest midfielder of his generation, by Messi as a "teacher" and by Sir Alex Ferguson as "the best player in England", Paul Scholes was an absolutely stunning footballer. "Scholes is the best central midfield player I have seen. He is a spectacular player who has everything. He can play the final pass, he can score, he is strong, he never gets knocked off the ball and he doesn't give possession away." - Xavi
Yaya Touré
The very definition of a box-to-box midfielder, Touré combines endless stamina with excellent running on the ball, excellent tackling and fine passing. Often seen gliding past players and playing the killer pass, Touré is just as adept at blocking opposition attacks. One of the world's best big-game players, Touré excelled for Barcelona in the 1009 Champions League Final at centre-back, before scoring in the 2012 FA Cup semi-finals and final for Manchester City as a midfielder, showing his remarkable range.
David Silva
One of the best playmakers in world football, it is testament to Silva's breathtaking abilities that he has forced his way into arguably the best international team in history. An ever-present in the Spanish team that won Euro 2012, Silva made the team of the tournament. Nicknamed Merlin by teammates for his passing skills and ball retention, Silva unlocks many a defence with his skill on the ball and passing ability. Comfortable on the wing, his real skill lies when he is placed behind the forwards with a strong midfield behind him, as such this line-up is perfect for maximising his phenomenal talent.
Wesley Sneijder
The UEFA Club Best Midfielder of 2010, Sneijder was the key player in the Inter team that won a historic treble. Sneijder possesses a terrific range of passing and is a constant goal threat from midfield. He is also a dead ball specialist and is perfect for terrorising tiring defences.
Dennis Bergkamp
One of the finest technical players ever, Bergkamp was amongst the best players of his whole generation. Schooled in Total Football, Bergkamp was comfortable anywhere, but excelled as the second striker. Runner-up in the Ballon d'Or in 1992 and 1993, Bergkamp was the top scorer in Euro 1992. Goals were not even the main strength of his game - his link-up play was unbelievable. The focal point of the Arsenal team that won the Double in 1998, Bergkamp scored some incredible goals whilst at the Gunners. Bergkamp is rated by most Arsenal fans as even better than the great Thierry Henry (see the comments here).
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Ah, Zlatan. What a glorious footballer. Winner of titles where he goes, Ibrahimovic is excellent in the air, strong and agile, plays well with his back to goal and boasts some of the best finishing, ision, passing and ball control around. Good for 163 goals in his last 257 games (including 35 goals for the last two seasons running) as well as double digit assists in each of his last 6 seasons, Ibrahimovic has famously won league titles in 9 of his last 10 seasons. Like Cristiano Ronaldo, once derided as not showing up on the big occasion, Zlatan silenced critics by scoring and dominating the Milan Derby, El Classico, various Champions League ties, and for Sweden at the 2012 Euros where he was named to the team of the tournament. A scorer of great goals and a great goalscorer, Ibrahimovic will form a natural partnership up front with Dennis Bergkamp.
Formation and tactics PM'd to Theon.
My player-profiles:
Fabian Barthez (France 87 Caps)
The maverick goalkeeper - who won everything in the game - actually finds himself with a bit of a negative reputation, unfairly judged on some bad games for Utd. But when Barthez was in his prime he was a world class keeper. He shares the record for the most World Cup finals clean sheets with Peter Shilton, with 10. This is the important bit to remember: When it came down to the big games, the knock-out tournaments, he NEVER let his side down. Crucially in this draft he again lines up alongside his country-men Laurent Blanc & Marcel Desailly, re-uniting the incredibly successful triangle that won a back-to-back World Cup and European Championships. A superb shot-stopper, Barthez-Blanc-Desailly is the best & most proven axis in the whole draft with 300 International caps between them.
Honours: World Cup 1998, Euro 2000, Champions League 1993, Premier League 2000-01 and 2002-03,European Footballer of the Year Best Goalkeeper: 1998 and 2000, Most World Cup clean sheets: 10
Marcel Desailly (France 116 caps, 3 goals)
One of the best players of the last 20 years. A colossus at the back or in midfield. Desailly’s game had it all - Pace, Power, intelligence and desire. He won basically everything there was to win in the game. A Champions League title with two different clubs. Only 3 other players have achieved this, one of which is his team-mate here; Paulo Sousa. Desailly’s physical presence & pace was ideally suited next to the great anticipation & technical skills of Laurent Blanc. Named in Premier League team of the decade.
Laurent Blanc (France 97 caps 16 goals)
Amazingly, Blanc scored 134 goals in his club career. One of the most dangerous players around from set plays. At 6’4’’ he was dominant in the air but also extremely comfortable on the ball, possessing the technique of a playmaker. He specialized in making those around him calm and collected. Blanc could read the game brilliantly, was intelligent & had a masterful grasp of tactics which proved crucial as games unfolded.
Dani Alves (Brazil 68 caps, 5 goals)
The best right back in the world for the last 5 or 6 years, Dani Alves offers the team an extra man in attack with his incredible engine, getting up and down the right flank all day long. He will provide width for the team and an over-lap if Di Maria wishes to cut inside. Incredibly quick, he’s also brilliant on the ball, as we seen in the Champions League with some of his through balls and various other assists. Cristiano Ronaldo said of him: "I usually don't have a problem with defenders when it comes to outracing them, but when playing a match against Barcelona it happens to be complicated with Daniel Alves"
Fabio Grosso (Italy 48 caps 4 goals)
The Italian left back is of course famous for scoring a stunning goal against Germany in the World Cup semi-final, the winning penalty in the World Cup final and also his Marco Tardelli-like celebration. Grosso began his career as a left winger until he was converted to left back when he was 24. Once that happened he soon got his first cap after catching Marcelo Lippi’s eye with some brilliant performances at Palermo. A fast, intelligent player, with good stamina, Grosso can get up and down the left flank for his team all day, offering width and supplying crosses for the forwards, or linking up with Rooney like Evra did in 2006-2009.
Paulo Sousa (Portugal 51 caps 6 goals)
An integral part of the “Golden Generation” that came out of Portugal in the early 1990’s, Sousa spent his best days in Serie A at a time when it was the strongest league in the world. Sousa's greatest skill was doing the unselfish things required to win a game. For every goal or clever pass, there were a dozen other little things that went unnoticed but were vital. One of Europe’s best midfielders during the mid to late 90’s. Successful at the highest level in the Champions League, Winning it twice; with Dortmund and Juventus. He was an excellent reader of the game, able to play the role of defensive midfielder while possessing superb technical ability. Similar to Michael Carrick in that he was a deep lying, ball playing midfielder. A team-player, the type to make those around him stand out even more. A vital component in any successful side. His connection with country-man Rui Costa will be a big plus for the side. With Essien next to him, he will have the perfect complimentary team-mate.
Michael Essien (Ghana 52 caps 9 goals)
The ultimate box-to-box midfielder & the sides engine room. Essien’s energy, power and abrasive ability will allow him the freedom to protect and support playmakerRui Costa while Paulo Sousa assists the defence and directs the distribution. Essien is like having an extra man in the middle - One minute putting fires out in defence and the next supporting the likes of Rui Costa & Ronaldo in attack. Before his injury nightmare he was probably the most complete midfielder in the world. As Utd fans, our first taster came in the Champions League against Lyon when he gave Roy Keane and the rest of our side hell for 90 minutes. The way Utd missed Fletcher in the 2009 CL final would be similar if this side lost Essien.
Manuel Rui Costa (Portugal 94 caps 26 goals) II Maestro
The team’s play-maker. One of my favourite players growing up, Rui Costa put the fantasy into football. Incredible vision and execution of the pass, he was simply a brilliant footballer. But to use him properly, the platform for him to best operate needs to be present, which he certainly gets from Paulo Sousa & Essien. Even The incredible work-rate of Rooney favours him. He’ll be able to unlock the tightest of defences as he proved through-out his career, mainly with Fiorentina, and link up beautifully with Ronaldo, Rooney & Di Maria. From the back four, with Sousa, Essien & Rui Costa, the balance in the team and the link from defence through the midfield and forwards is finely tuned.
Not great quality but you watch it and you can’t help but actually miss him. We’ll never see another Rui Costa.
– enjoy the music
The maverick goalkeeper - who won everything in the game - actually finds himself with a bit of a negative reputation, unfairly judged on some bad games for Utd. But when Barthez was in his prime he was a world class keeper. He shares the record for the most World Cup finals clean sheets with Peter Shilton, with 10. This is the important bit to remember: When it came down to the big games, the knock-out tournaments, he NEVER let his side down. Crucially in this draft he again lines up alongside his country-men Laurent Blanc & Marcel Desailly, re-uniting the incredibly successful triangle that won a back-to-back World Cup and European Championships. A superb shot-stopper, Barthez-Blanc-Desailly is the best & most proven axis in the whole draft with 300 International caps between them.
Honours: World Cup 1998, Euro 2000, Champions League 1993, Premier League 2000-01 and 2002-03,European Footballer of the Year Best Goalkeeper: 1998 and 2000, Most World Cup clean sheets: 10
Marcel Desailly (France 116 caps, 3 goals)
One of the best players of the last 20 years. A colossus at the back or in midfield. Desailly’s game had it all - Pace, Power, intelligence and desire. He won basically everything there was to win in the game. A Champions League title with two different clubs. Only 3 other players have achieved this, one of which is his team-mate here; Paulo Sousa. Desailly’s physical presence & pace was ideally suited next to the great anticipation & technical skills of Laurent Blanc. Named in Premier League team of the decade.
Laurent Blanc (France 97 caps 16 goals)
Amazingly, Blanc scored 134 goals in his club career. One of the most dangerous players around from set plays. At 6’4’’ he was dominant in the air but also extremely comfortable on the ball, possessing the technique of a playmaker. He specialized in making those around him calm and collected. Blanc could read the game brilliantly, was intelligent & had a masterful grasp of tactics which proved crucial as games unfolded.
Dani Alves (Brazil 68 caps, 5 goals)
The best right back in the world for the last 5 or 6 years, Dani Alves offers the team an extra man in attack with his incredible engine, getting up and down the right flank all day long. He will provide width for the team and an over-lap if Di Maria wishes to cut inside. Incredibly quick, he’s also brilliant on the ball, as we seen in the Champions League with some of his through balls and various other assists. Cristiano Ronaldo said of him: "I usually don't have a problem with defenders when it comes to outracing them, but when playing a match against Barcelona it happens to be complicated with Daniel Alves"
Fabio Grosso (Italy 48 caps 4 goals)
The Italian left back is of course famous for scoring a stunning goal against Germany in the World Cup semi-final, the winning penalty in the World Cup final and also his Marco Tardelli-like celebration. Grosso began his career as a left winger until he was converted to left back when he was 24. Once that happened he soon got his first cap after catching Marcelo Lippi’s eye with some brilliant performances at Palermo. A fast, intelligent player, with good stamina, Grosso can get up and down the left flank for his team all day, offering width and supplying crosses for the forwards, or linking up with Rooney like Evra did in 2006-2009.
Paulo Sousa (Portugal 51 caps 6 goals)
An integral part of the “Golden Generation” that came out of Portugal in the early 1990’s, Sousa spent his best days in Serie A at a time when it was the strongest league in the world. Sousa's greatest skill was doing the unselfish things required to win a game. For every goal or clever pass, there were a dozen other little things that went unnoticed but were vital. One of Europe’s best midfielders during the mid to late 90’s. Successful at the highest level in the Champions League, Winning it twice; with Dortmund and Juventus. He was an excellent reader of the game, able to play the role of defensive midfielder while possessing superb technical ability. Similar to Michael Carrick in that he was a deep lying, ball playing midfielder. A team-player, the type to make those around him stand out even more. A vital component in any successful side. His connection with country-man Rui Costa will be a big plus for the side. With Essien next to him, he will have the perfect complimentary team-mate.
Michael Essien (Ghana 52 caps 9 goals)
The ultimate box-to-box midfielder & the sides engine room. Essien’s energy, power and abrasive ability will allow him the freedom to protect and support playmakerRui Costa while Paulo Sousa assists the defence and directs the distribution. Essien is like having an extra man in the middle - One minute putting fires out in defence and the next supporting the likes of Rui Costa & Ronaldo in attack. Before his injury nightmare he was probably the most complete midfielder in the world. As Utd fans, our first taster came in the Champions League against Lyon when he gave Roy Keane and the rest of our side hell for 90 minutes. The way Utd missed Fletcher in the 2009 CL final would be similar if this side lost Essien.
Manuel Rui Costa (Portugal 94 caps 26 goals) II Maestro
The team’s play-maker. One of my favourite players growing up, Rui Costa put the fantasy into football. Incredible vision and execution of the pass, he was simply a brilliant footballer. But to use him properly, the platform for him to best operate needs to be present, which he certainly gets from Paulo Sousa & Essien. Even The incredible work-rate of Rooney favours him. He’ll be able to unlock the tightest of defences as he proved through-out his career, mainly with Fiorentina, and link up beautifully with Ronaldo, Rooney & Di Maria. From the back four, with Sousa, Essien & Rui Costa, the balance in the team and the link from defence through the midfield and forwards is finely tuned.
Not great quality but you watch it and you can’t help but actually miss him. We’ll never see another Rui Costa.
– enjoy the music
Wayne Rooney (England 83 caps 36 goals)
Potentially Utd’s all time top scorer and possibly England’s, Rooney is the biggest natural talent these shores have produced in decades. Transfer request or no transfer request, he is still one of the world’s best forwards and has been absolutely vital to Utd’s recent success, whether out left or as a 9 or a 10. So much so that the greatest club manager of all time chose to keep him at the club in 2010 and offer him a bumper new deal. What Ferguson knew was that apart from his obvious footballing talents, Rooney is also an incredibly selfless player on the field. Noted for chasing back lost causes and popping up all over the pitch, Rooney is almost like having an extra team-mate on your side. He’ll sacrifice himself for the good of the team as he did so often when Ronaldo was here by playing on the left during one of the most successful spells in Utd history.
– Doing damage from the left
- at 6.15 cutting in from the left
Ronaldo (Brazil 104 caps 67 goals)
Possibly the most complete striker not just in this Champions League era, but of all time. The original Ronaldo was the most electrifying, energetic phenomenon we’ll see in our lifetimes. The complete centre forward. When writing this description, I had to sit back and think, what really made him so good? He was the perfect mixture of power and grace, and had an extra second of time over anyone else. In his pomp as close to unstoppable as you could wish to see. He could score with either foot, burst past the quickest of defenders , dribble past the most intelligent or brush off the most aggressive of opponents. And of course, he was the ultimate big game player (ignoring the bizarre circumstances of France ’98) he scored in the 2002 World Cup Semi-Final & Final & in both UEFA cup finals for Barca and Inter.
All this despite being ravaged by injury during his prime... What could have been?
Ángel di Mária (Argentina 39 caps 8 goals)
Capable of moments of magic, direct running, dribbling inside or out wide, Di Maria brings a lot of different options & variety to the team. He is a modern day forward/winger who is versatile, able to switch flanks or play through the middle. Not a prolific scorer but most likely to create chances for his team-mates with nearly 80 assists in 6 seasons since moving to Europe. Excellent technique, agility, flair and pace. Can provide width for the side.
Potentially Utd’s all time top scorer and possibly England’s, Rooney is the biggest natural talent these shores have produced in decades. Transfer request or no transfer request, he is still one of the world’s best forwards and has been absolutely vital to Utd’s recent success, whether out left or as a 9 or a 10. So much so that the greatest club manager of all time chose to keep him at the club in 2010 and offer him a bumper new deal. What Ferguson knew was that apart from his obvious footballing talents, Rooney is also an incredibly selfless player on the field. Noted for chasing back lost causes and popping up all over the pitch, Rooney is almost like having an extra team-mate on your side. He’ll sacrifice himself for the good of the team as he did so often when Ronaldo was here by playing on the left during one of the most successful spells in Utd history.
– Doing damage from the left
- at 6.15 cutting in from the left
Ronaldo (Brazil 104 caps 67 goals)
Possibly the most complete striker not just in this Champions League era, but of all time. The original Ronaldo was the most electrifying, energetic phenomenon we’ll see in our lifetimes. The complete centre forward. When writing this description, I had to sit back and think, what really made him so good? He was the perfect mixture of power and grace, and had an extra second of time over anyone else. In his pomp as close to unstoppable as you could wish to see. He could score with either foot, burst past the quickest of defenders , dribble past the most intelligent or brush off the most aggressive of opponents. And of course, he was the ultimate big game player (ignoring the bizarre circumstances of France ’98) he scored in the 2002 World Cup Semi-Final & Final & in both UEFA cup finals for Barca and Inter.
All this despite being ravaged by injury during his prime... What could have been?
Ángel di Mária (Argentina 39 caps 8 goals)
Capable of moments of magic, direct running, dribbling inside or out wide, Di Maria brings a lot of different options & variety to the team. He is a modern day forward/winger who is versatile, able to switch flanks or play through the middle. Not a prolific scorer but most likely to create chances for his team-mates with nearly 80 assists in 6 seasons since moving to Europe. Excellent technique, agility, flair and pace. Can provide width for the side.
Team Akash02
PLAYER PROFILES
Santiago CanizaresOne of the best goalkeepers in the world at his peak, regarded by the Great Dane himself as the best keeper in the world when the likes of Kahn were also in their prime. A very reliable and complete goalkeeper who an excellent shot stopper and also good in the air when it needed to come out and deal with crosses as it is shown here. An absolute legend at Valencia and one of my personal favourites as well.
Philipp Lahm
Without a doubt the best fullback in the world for the last 4-5 odd years. Very comfortable on both flanks though he prefers to be on the right which is where he would be playing for us. An ever present fixture for both club and country, Lahm has proven to be an excellent all round fullback being extremely solid at the back while also being a dangerous threat going forward, which is proven by his performances in big games such as his 90th minute match winner in a Euro semi final against Turkey and also his excellent overlapping attacking play against Barcelona in a CL semi. A great leader while also a player who rarely has bad game, he also went on playing over 100 games for Bayern on the trot which show his immense fitness levels.
Fabio Cannavaro
Often talked as one of the very few defenders to win the Ballon D'or, Canna has enjoyed a highly successful career at both club and country level. Throughout his club life he has been one of the best defenders in Serie A, a league that boasted of names such as Maldini, Nesta, Thuram and Zanetti. For Italy, "Muro Di Berlino" gave what probably is one of if not the best performances by both a defender and captain in the 2006 World Cup where he steered Italy throughout the tournament with hardly a scare and did not put a single foot wrong, which earned him the prestigious Ballon D'or. An immense defender and a great presence in the air, with him in the team we can be sure of keeping most striker at bay.
Giorgio Chiellini
A stellar name in the modern day game, Chiellini is an established fixture for his club and country and is considered one of the best hard men in the world. A no nonsense player he has won the Serie A defender of the year award three times which is a great feat in itself.
Giovanni Van Bronckhorst
A true attacking fullback, Gio was great in providing width in the great Barcelona team under Rijkaard and his role in attack can never go unnoticed, as shown by this magical goal . With 106 caps for the orange he's a proven name at every level.
Pep Guardiola
For me, one of the best deep lying playmakers of his generation, and a true genius in himself, Pep was as key as anyone else for Cruyff's dream team. A unique player, he's a great mix of strong defensive ability, great tactical reading of the game as well as unmatched skill on the ball that combined excellent vision and creativity to start one attack after another. Just look at his through balls and you will surely find it hard to find another player with similar brilliance. Him pinging balls from the back will be a huge asset for the team and would never let the attacking players get isolated.
Emmanuel Petit
An energetic and combative player, the Frenchman has proven himself in clubs like Monaco, Arsenal and Chelsea. At Arsenal he was a key player alongside Vieira in Wenger's early years when they steered the team to cup and league wins. At the same time Petit enjoyed a great time with the French National Team and was an integral part of the team that won the 1998 World Cup, also scoring in the final . He was known for his defensive ability, energy, stamina and mobility that allowed a great platform for attacking players.
Ruben Baraja
One of the most complete midfielders of his generation, Baraja is another Valencia legend that we have in our team. Spending a whole decade at the club, Baraja was a part of Valencia's golden years where they consistently challenged for the CL and the league while also winning the La Liga twice. As shown here , Baraja's skillset is very vast, with great energy, stamina, tenacity combined with excellent ability on the ball whether it came to passing or shooting. He'd complete the midfield trio.
Gheorghe Hagi
One of the best attacking midfielders in the world at his peak, Hagi made a name for himself as a versatile and talisman attacking player of his time and was a magnificent sight to watch. Having played for a host of clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona, he was a cracking little fella to have in the team. His fine performances lit up the 1994 World Cup when he destroyed a Fernando Redondo led Argentina . Brilliant skill, vision and creativity on the ball, his tricky nature makes it extremely hard for his marker to keep track of him and his ability to wriggle out of tight spaces and play a decisive pass was what made him really deadly.
Steve McManaman
Not a very popular figure, but McManaman was a really important player for Liverpool and Real Madrid in his peak. As the phrase went "Stop Macca, Stop Liverpool", it showed how he was the star player in the team, also often dubbed as a right sided twin of our very own Giggsy. Again a very versatile player who could play anywhere behind the striker, he was a great dribbler and a very neat passer. Bagged the man of the match award in the Champions League final as well.
Romario
One of the greatest goal scorers of all time, Romario's exploits are unfamiliar to none. Winning the Ballon D'or after leading Brazil to a World Cup victory in 1994, Romario has a claim to over 1000 goals while playing for many top clubs throughout his career. Like Pep, he was a vital part of the Barca dream team and he displayed great composure, skill and finishing to finish many chances created by his superstar teammates. An expert in beating his marker, he is virtually impossible to mark.
I will post/PM everything today so we are ready to go first thing tomorrow!
Same here
Theon, it would be handy if you kept the OP updated with relevant info:
- Final draft picks and order
- Who won each fixture and scorelines
- Which reinforcements each team picks after the first knockout
- And so on...
Maybe I got carried away making golden boot/ball/XI awards, but this is what I mean:
DRAFT RULES, etc.
Drafted squads:
WEDNESDAY
Cutch vs. MJJ
Brwned vs. EDogen
THURSDAY
Gio vs. Antohan
JakeC vs. Stobzilla
FRIDAY
mightberight vs. DanNistelrroy
KM vs paceme
SATURDAY
NM vs. Isotope
Thisistheone vs. Fergus'son
REINFORCEMENTS FROM ELIMINATED POOL:
Stobzilla - Matthaus, Xavi, Vidic
Antohan - Beckenbauer, Zanetti, Stoichkov
Brwned - Baresi, Eusébio, Krol
Cutch - Edwards, Figo, Redondo
NM - Figueroa, Maldini, Varela
Thisistheone - Cruyff, Garrincha, Irwin
KM - Breitner, Ronaldo, Gerets
DanNistlerooy - Platini, Ferenc Puskás, Davids
QUARTER-FINALS:
WEDNESDAY
Cutch v Brwned
KM v Thisistheone
THURSDAY
NM v Antohan
Stobzilla v DanNistelrooy
SEMI-FINALS:
MONDAY
Cutch v DanNistelrooy
Antohan v Thisistheone
FINAL:
Cutch v Antohan
GOLDEN BALL: Diego MaradonaGOLDEN BOOT: Marco van BastenTOURNAMENT ALL-STAR XI
20 years of the champions league is on itv4 tonight at 8
If you want to make me one of those tables with everyones picks on it, then go for it Antohan.
The rest will be updated when it actually happens, we aren't even over halfway through the first round yet. Will be slightly presumptive to try and fill in the re-enforcements round at this stage.
The rest will be updated when it actually happens, we aren't even over halfway through the first round yet. Will be slightly presumptive to try and fill in the re-enforcements round at this stage.