Festival Footy!

It is finally here, the thing I have been waiting for all year and no it is the arrival of Santa. The football Christmas period will start this weekend, which means a tremendous amount of games in a very short time frame. Every Premier League team is looking at the fixture list and seeing that they have to play five games in eighteen days. Children around the world look forward to the morning of the 25^th, but for me it’s the morning of Boxing Day that I cannot wait for. Waking up to leftover food, pubs re-opening, and football, is the best present you can give a person. This year the Premier League will be offering this gift, but there are many people around the world that disagree with me. It is not just your everyday fan that disagrees with me, its names like Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger who want away with this part of the season. The two legendary coaches want to see a winter break implemented in the English game, so I will be giving you both sides of the argument and let you, the readers, form your own opinions.

Happy footy fans during the
 Xmas period

Every time England lose a game, whether it is in September or in the aftermath of a disappointing exit from a major Championship, the talk of a winter break and players being tired resurfaces. I believe that every other country in Europe with the exception of England has a winter break, which supposedly benefits all nations around the globe as Europe is the hot bed of football. As I mentioned, Sir Alex Ferguson and company have been asking for the break for many years. The foreign managers that ply their trade in England wonder why the FA put their teams through such a grueling schedule. A winter break would have seen last Saturday being the final week of Premier or Football league action until the second week in January. My friend Denny Herzig, who plays for German Second Division side, Eintracht Trier has experienced both playing over Christmas and now enjoying a winter break. Speaking to the midfielder, he couldn’t remember how he survived a season without a break. Mr. Herzig uses this two week period to enjoy himself without worrying about games and work related issues. Herzig can go on holiday with his friends and forget all the stresses and strain that football brings. All the while, players like Frank Lampard are putting their bodies through hell in wet and windy conditions. The top players can play in the region of 60 games which, I admit, must have a dramatic affect on your body both mentally and physically. This being said, would the extra rest really help our chances this summer? Ex New England Revolution striker, Perek Belleh believes the answer to this is yes. The University of Rhode Island alum was quoted saying “The Christmas period may be the reason why England does not win the European Cup”. I can see the arguments, and another reason why there is not a break is the amount of money made over this period. Is it enough to ‘supposedly’ dent the nation’s chance of glory this summer?

Trying to stay
warm

When a professional footballer that has experienced both sides tells you he enjoys his two week break during the season, you have to listen. This being said, I still believe that the reasons for having one are not good enough for me to give up football of the festive period. Football over Christmas is ingrained in our culture, just as much as turkey is the meat of choice on tables across the country. People are excited due to the build up to the special day, spending time with family and friends, and to top it off there is football on most nights of the week.  I am certainly not thinking about how Fabio Capello will be ruining my summer over this wonderful period, neither is Rio Ferdinand or John Terry. They are looking forward to training less and playing more which is the best part of being a footballer, correct? Who wants to train when the lucky few can play in front of 50,000 people. Talking about training, a winter break means upon your return back to work you face a mini pre season. I would love to ask Mr. Ferdinand if he would enjoy a week off and then endure a mini pre season involving running, more running, and run some more. This might sound to you like I am putting club football before my country, and you would be right. I love the festive time of year and the fact that it can make or break a club’s chances of promotion, relegation, or their championship aspirations. If I still haven’t won you over let me ask you this question. During the early days of January when you’re broke and breaking all your New Year’s resolutions, what are you looking forward to? Football, we have the FA Cup and some tasty games to enjoy, while in Spain they have to wait until mid January to watch the teams they care about.

I am not certain that a winter break will help our national team win a major championship. Will the extra break really give England a better chance of beating the Germans or Spanish? Personally, it is another excuse to mask the fact that England is simply not good enough to beat the best teams in the world.  As for Sir Alex, looking at Manchester United’s record over the holiday’s, he surely cannot hate it that much. We at Defensive Discussions would love to hear your thoughts and feelings on this subject, so please leave a comment or tweet us at @DefDiscussions.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Why Always Me?

October 23, 2011 will be the day that the blue half of Manchester celebrated a 6-1 thrashing of their world famous neighbours, Manchester United. As a United fan I cannot argue that City were the better team, have the better squad, but the changing of the guard? I am not sure about that. It’s a long season and City has the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool still to play before we enter the second part of the season. The changing of the guard is not what I am here to talk to you about, what I want to talk about is why Sir Alex continues to play a certain Jonny Evans.

Not an unusual sight

I know lads, its tough watching
Jonny Evans defend

Tuesday night’s game versus Otelul Galati, Evans was left out of the lineup and a friend of mine was overjoyed, saying and I quote “Vidic is back and will use this as fitness to prepare for the derby. No more Evans!”  I wasn’t so happy, I mean I was glad to see Evans on the bench but had a feeling that he was being rested for the derby. Another clue was the substitution after Vidic’s ridiculous red card, Evans was chosen to replace Antonio Valencia, ahead of the outstanding Phil Jones. So Sunday morning arrives in New York and I wake up to Sir Alex, yet again putting Jonny Evans name on the team sheet. Bringing me to my first point, we have Nermanja Vidic and Phil Jones fit and ready to play in the biggest game of the season so far. Vidic is our captain, our leader, and one of the best center backs in the world. To my horror, not only did I have to comprehend the score line that read 4-1 at the time, but then to see the Serbian sitting in his club tracksuit in the stands. An argument could be that he wasn’t fully fit, but I would take a 50% fit Vidic over a fully fit Evans any day. At least put him on the bench! Phil Jones on the other hand, made the bench. The ex Blackburn defender has been outstanding since arriving at Old Trafford and rewarded with his first full cap for England. Whether it is right back, center midfield, or in his natural position of centre half, he has looked four million times the player Evans could even dream of being. Why would you play your fifth best or worst center back if you have a world class defender or a man in form at your disposal?

Always a step behind

The second point is his body of work, from his horror show of last season to his recent displays. In an interview with MirrorFootball , he claimed that he has played a lot better this season. Maybe that is true, but they were against poor teams and anything was better than last season. Steve Morrison, who you may ask? The Welsh international signed for Premier League new boys, Norwich City from Championship outfit Millwall. The striker has done ok this season, but Evans made him look like David Villa. Turning him at every opportunity, leaving Jones to  clean up his mess on several occasions. I wouldn’t say Morrison has breakaway speed but while the Irishman was pulling his caravan, the striker was leaving him in his wake. That was Norwich, a team that was outstanding on the day but shouldn't cause United so many problems at home. Benfica on the other hand is a team that Evans shouldn’t even be contemplated for, when it comes to the team Sir Alex puts out. Well he played and yet again cost us a goal. It was one mistake after the other and Cordoza, like Balotelli and Morrison, must have thoroughly enjoyed himself that night.

Embarrassing! 

The man is slow, average in the air, and there is always a big mistake looming. He should not be compared to the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Nermanja Vidic, or Phil Jones but Titus Bramble. So why is Ferguson consistently picking him, especially in the big games? I thought after the Champions League Final, with him not even on the bench that the boss had seen the light. Summer came and we saw the back of Obertan, O'Shea and nearly Darren Gibson too.Unfortunately, Gibson's move to Sunderland fell through but Sir Alex has firmly thrown him in the freezer. That is the place where Evans should be, he shouldn't even play reserve games because he will take the spot of a youth team player who is trying to prove himself. Signing Phil Jones and the emergence of Chris Smalling were all signs that finally this lad can move on and  I don’t have to watch him anymore. How wrong can one man be?

So lets move on to Sundays Manchester Derby, and focus in on Balotelli. Fox Soccer channel covered the game in the USA, and shockingly the so called expert was Danny Mills. He played in the Premier League, which means he is qualified and I believe he stated “Evans to me, always has a mistake in him”. Balotelli, displayed that now infamous shirt saying “Why Always Me?” whilst Evans picked himself off the Old Trafford turf after slipping and losing his mark. Here at Defensive Discussions we are going to speak with a T-Shirt company and for any Manchester United fan, they can purchase a shirt that has Evans face displayed with a message underneath stating “Sir Alex, Why Always Him?” On the bright side he cannot play for 3 games, unfortunately one game will be Aldershot in the Carling Cup. Bottom line we have four center halves that are better than the Northern Ireland international.  Evans should not be playing against the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City or Norwich City by the looks of things. Sir Alex and any other fan can defend him and say he is still young and is one of the best young defenders in the league. Without the proof, I am sorry I am not buying it even from the great man himself.

I would really like to hear the opinions of all football fans, especially the Manchester United faithful because I truly dislike him and maybe my views are biased. So please contact us by commenting here on the website or on Twitter @DefDiscussions.

MLS Defensive Awards 2011

October means only one thing in America, no not the baseball playoffs, the MLS finale after a season that started way back in March. Eight teams will carry on forth to try and win it all, maybe without some of the big markets teams too. Defensive Discussions is not here however to update you on the latest goings on from the MLS or how great David Beckham's wand is performing. We are here to give out the ‘MLS Defensive Awards 2011’.  This segment will be very similar to the one we did at the end of the 2010/11 Premier League season. So we present to you…….

’MLS Defensive Awards 2011’

Defender of the Year

Omar Gonzalez- LA Galaxy

Surely Jurgen?

Since he was drafted in 2009 from ACC powerhouse, Maryland, the Dallas born defender has really made a name for himself. Bob Bradley gave him his first cap for the US national team during the centre backs debut season as a professional. The 2011 season has seen a real improvement in his game and helped his side become the team to beat in the MLS. LA Galaxy has the luxury of playing the likes of David Beckham, Robbie Keane, and Landon Donavon, but the improvement at the back has really separated them this season from the chasing pack. Gonzalez, although suffering with a few minor injuries, has come up against some of the best strikers the league has to offer and usually won the battle, before sending them packing. I am sure his performances have caught the eye of new US national team boss, Jurgen Klinsmann.  Looking at the defenders the German has called up, there is no reason why Gonzalez should not be included. At least in contention, Tim Ream has been a huge disappointment this year but is still picked ahead of the Galaxy defender. Call up or not, our ‘Defender of the Year’ is LA Galaxy’s outstanding centre back, Omar Gonzalez.

Young Defender of the Year

Perry Kitchen- DC United

TACKLE!

The Akron Alum was the 3^rd pick overall in the 2011 MLS Superdraft by DC United. Prior to the event he turned down an offer from Belgium giants, Anderlecht. Ben Olsen, a DC United legend and first year manager saw the talent that Kitchen posses and started him against Columbus Crew in the season opener. Since that day, the right back has been a regular and solid performer all year for the one time MLS super power.  Already a part of the Under 20 US National team, I am sure it won’t be long until a certain German coach will be keeping tabs on the young full back.

Surprise of the Season

Jalil Anibabe- Chicago Fire

The Man is a Beast

People might be wondering why we are picking a defender that went ninth in the draft as the ‘Surprise of the Season’? The reason we picked the former Tar Heel is not due to character issues or be one of those picks that could be hit or miss. He was highly touted coming out of college. It is the fact he has performed so well for a struggling Chicago Fire team, who are going through a transition period at the moment. The boy is athletic and looks more and more comfortable on the ball every week. Playing well is one thing but scoring a 40 yard screamer is another. This strike was the young defenders first goal as a professional and doesn’t matter how many appearances he goes on to make in his career, he will struggle to top this one.

The “Jonathan Bornstein” Award

Rafael Marquez-New York Redbulls

Vamos Rafa!

This award is given out to the player who has had a season to forget, named after one of the worst footballers ever seen. Marquez, formally of Barcelona started his first full year in the MLS and was one to forget, both for himself and his club. New York is struggling to make the playoffs after huge investments were made over the course of last year. Thierry Henry was brought in to accompany the Mexican but has not worked out the way that everyone had hoped. Very average strikers have made the Mexican skipper look slow and past his best, even his expansive passing game has been a miss this year. Yes, he has struggled with injuries since the Gold Cup, but for a man with such talent he should not be shown up by some of the strikers on show in this league. He called out his team mates earlier this week, rightly so when it came to the younger members of the squad. I agreed with everything he said, but before you call out your team mates, look at your own performances.

All-Star Back Four 2011

Sean Franklin- LA Galaxy

Had to include Becks some how!!

2011 has not been a bad year for the American full back. LA Galaxy has the best record in the regular season, most likely has David Beckham’s phone number, part of the best defense in the MLS, to go with an All-Star appearance. All that is left is an MLS Championship and call up by US national coach, Jurgen Klinsmann.

Geoff Cameron- Houston Dynamo

Possibly the most highly rated US born player in the league right now. The man is a beast, unfortunately fans do not get the chance to watch the man perform too often unless you live in the  Houston area. He has actually been playing as a defensive midfielder, but is still a worthy member in our back four. Personally he is another that should be given a chance internationally.

Omar Gonzalez- LA Galaxy

This might sound like a contradicting statement, but I am not a fan of Omar Gonzalez. There is no doubt that the 'Defender of the Year' has been the best player on show this season, I want to see how he does on the international stage. Along with Franklin, he is part of the meanest defense in the land and was rewarded with an All-Star call up. Unfortunately, he didn't play due to injury and another missed opportunity to test himself against the world's best. The next quest, like Franklin is to obviously win the MLS then try and work his way back into the US set up.

Jamison Olave- Real Salt Lake

I saw this man play in the All Star game before he hurt himself against Premier League Champions, Manchester United. The Columbian defender was outstanding, using that athletic ability to its full potential trying to keep Rooney & Co. from producing any moments of magic. Along with athletic ability, his reading of the game is second to none. It is almost like he is one step ahead of the striker and is constantly beating them to the ball. Overall, another outstanding year for the 2010 MLS Defender of the Year and a well deserved member of the 'All-Star Back Four 2011'.

A Defensive Discussion with.......

Gale Agbossoumonde

This week, Defensive Discussions met with US international Gale Agbossoumonde. The center back, originally from Togo moved to the United States at a very young age ending up in Syracuse, New York. After High School he turned down college scholarships to try his luck as a professional, signing with Miami FC in the USL, the division below the MLS. It was always going to be a temporary situation in Miami as the talented American was loaned out to Portuguese side Sporting Braga. Unfortunately, he never made an appearance for Braga and travelled across Europe to Swedish club Djurgarden for first team football.  After only games however, Gale packed his bags up yet again to sign with Eintracht Frankfurt, who plays in the second tier of German football. While he was back packing across Europe, the Syracuse native made his full international debut in 2010 against South Africa in the Nelson Mandela Challenge Cup. Not only was the game on African soil but November 17^th 2010 was his 19^th birthday. Between training and unpacking his suitcase, Gale kindly sat down with us to introduce himself to football fans worldwide.

Age: 19

Favourite Team:

 Arsenal!  It is certainly a tough time for us right now but will always love and support Arsenal.

Who is your favourite defender and why?

Barcelona’s, Gerard Pique. You cannot ask for a better defender because he is composed on the ball, reads the game as well as anyone, and is great defensively. Kolo Toure was another I grew up watching during his Arsenal days.

Who has been the biggest influence in your career?

There have been so many people who have helped and influenced me throughout my career, so it is hard to single out one person. Apart from my family, I would say Thomas Rongen, my Under 20’s National Coach is certainly one person I have to thank. Glenn Buckley, my old Olympic Development coach was the one who moved me to center back and I guess that was a decision that worked out.

Could you explain to me how excited you were when you made your debut for the US vs. South Africa on African soil?

It was a mixture of nerves and excitement. Coming out for warm ups, I was very excited because it was a wall of noise created by all the Vuvuzela’s around the ground. Saying that, when my number was called and I ran back to the bench, I felt like I was going to pass out. Once I ran onto the pitch, I knew what I had to do and it was back to work. All the emotions went away and really enjoyed the time I had out there.

What was the best part of the whole experience?

Not many people experience what I did that day, so it was great. It was my 19^th birthday and thought the day couldn’t be any better. It did, I have an older sister who still lives in Togo and haven’t seen since I left for America. The game was streamed in Togo and she watched the game on TV, which was the first time she saw me play. The whole experience was just amazing and left me wanting more.

 Have you spoken to Jurgen Klinsmann?

No, I have not spoken to him. I am just happy to be here in Germany which has given me a new found energy and motivation. My focus is working hard and earning a spot in the Eintracht Frankfurt first team before I think about International football.

Awful look Jurgen!

Give us a US player to watch for the future:

Joe Gyau. He plays for Hoffenheim in the German Bundesliga and if I had a penny for every time a player asks me about Joe, I would be a rich man. When fellow professionals think you’re a good player, that speaks for itself.

How have you found European football and the life experience?

 It has not been an easy, mainly due to all the travelling I have done. I have been living out of a suitcase for two years and not playing regularly to make it even harder to settle. But, I am happy right now and think I will enjoy my time in Germany.

If you miss home, have you ever thought about playing in the MLS?

 Yes, I have given it a lot of thought and actually had the opportunity to play in the MLS before moving to Germany. I want to give European football one more go, before I look to return home.

Thoughts on the MLS:

                       

The league has come on leaps and bounds since its emergence in 1993. Teams like Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers have really added to the league, along with the ‘Designated Players’ like David Beckham and Thierry Henry. American players are gaining the respect of our European counterparts. We are seeing more and more Americans playing abroad, like the Dempsey’s and the Tim Howards of the world, showing the world that the US has arrived.  Going back to the MLS, playing teams like Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Barcelona this summer will only help the league grow.

Finally………

Which game will you be buying this season, FIFA or PES?

FIFA for sure, I am the king of FIFA!

I would like to Thank Gale Agbossoumonde for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to Defensive Discussions. 

"The Diary of a full back" Issue 4

Remember this guy?

‘Forgotten Full Back’ has returned and our subject today is Graeme Le Saux. The left back had a whirlwind career winning a Premier League medal, England caps, but had to deal with homophobic taunts throughout his career.

Funny how the fight
was with a guy named
Batty

It all started in Jersey, a small island that lies in the English Channel separating England and France, where Graeme was born. The Jersey boy played for St Paul’s before moving to West London after being spotted playing in a local tournament. After making 90 appearances in the four years, he made the biggest move of his career. Le Saux signed for Jack Walker’s Blackburn Rovers managed by Liverpool legend, Kenny Dalglish. His move north brought success, winning a Premier League medal and his first England cap. Rovers were like the Manchester City of that era, buying big players for big money. Like his career, there were some moments he won’t look back on so fondly. David Batty, a hard tackling and all round horrible midfielder ended up confronting and actually fighting Le Saux during a Premier League game. Television cameras caught every second and yet again the left back was in the headlines for the wrong reasons.

Great Times

After a four year spell in the north of England, the left back moved back to the capital, re-signing with Chelsea, breaking the British transfer record for a defender. Chelsea was an up and coming rival to the dominate Manchester United, while Blackburn was on the decline. He added to his trophy cabinet with a League Cup winner’s medal and a UEFA Cup Winners Cup medal. The European competition was scrapped by Europe’s governing body because any competition that is shown on Channel 5 in the UK, cannot be a good competition. Jersey is an island that is owned by the British and enabled Graeme to represent the Three Lions. I believe he was a good left back and the teams he played for proves my point. He was mainly picked for England to solve England's long standing Achilles heel that has hindered England for years, left wing. To put it mildly, he like so many did not solve the issue and just became a squad player, picking up a cap here and there. Le Saux eventually left Chelsea in 2003 and finished his career with Southampton before retiring in 2005. He racked up 403 league appearances, scoring 20 goals, and earning 36 England caps.

“Come and give me one
up the a***”. Robbie Fowler

Being a Premier League winner and England international are things that players are remembered for, not Le Saux. The question of his sexuality, despite being married will unfortunately be the part of his legacy that fans remember. He states in his book 'Left Field' it was his non footballing ways that brought on all the abuse. The left back said that dressing well, not liking beer, and not being a man's man makes you a homosexual in football circles. David Beckham went through the same kind of things, due to him being different.  The ex Manchester United and Real Madrid star has been called every name under the sun, especially after he was caught wearing a sarong, but when you have that much talent you are almost excused. Le Saux was a solid Premier League player but lacked a wand and world class ability. If you have a wand and technique to die for, you can wear and pretty much do whatever you like. Robbie Fowler wouldn't dream of publicly humiliating Sir David in the manner he embarrassed Le Saux . The Chelsea left back, who was in his second spell at the Bridge, was about to take a free kick, only to look up and see the Liverpool striker bent over with his backside facing him. Fowler was quoted saying while bent over “Come and give me one up the a***”. Fans across the globe saw this ‘joke’ and all it did was fuel the fire for more abuse in the future.

Tash was too much
to resist 

Media was the next step for Graeme, who worked for the BBC in a number of roles after hanging up his boots. He worked on the highlight show Match of the Day 2, became a radio analyst, and was the co-commentator for England games alongside John Motson. Before the World Cup in Germany, the BBC chose to replace Le Saux with ex Liverpool and Preston North End defender, Martin Lawrenson. The Jersey born defender was understandably furious and consequently resigned which brought about more negative headlines. Being booted off the TV show “Dancing on Ice” in the first week, was the last time we saw him on British TV. Last I heard he resides in Switzerland and is writing a book about healthy eating. Can you really blame him after all he went through?

Whether you think he was homosexual (which there is nothing wrong with that, just to add), or he annoyed you in the commentary box, the man won a Premier League medal playing alongside one of the greats, Alan Shearer. Unfortunately, David Batty has one too, but Robbie Fowler doesn't! We do not want your input on his sexuality, or even if you thought David Batty was a good player. All we want is to remind the world of the controversial full back they call……..Graeme Le Saux.

Changing of the Guard

Father time waits for no one, so when it catches up to a legend and brings the curtain down on an illustrious career it’s a sad day. Fans reminisce about the good times and performances the player gave them during his time at the club. However football is like life, one career ends and another begins to bring a new excitement to the club and its fans. AC Milan is a club that is going through this transition at the back right now. Alessandro Nesta, like many other Italians of his generation is a legend, but this season could be swan song. However, the man that will play alongside Nesta is the man that they want to replace the great Roman with. Thiago Silva, 22 is Brazilian not Italian but defends in the Italian style with a touch of the South American style.

AC Milan fans have been very lucky in terms of defenders that have worn the famous Rossoneri. During the early 90’s they had Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, and Alessandro Costacurta patrolling the back line. They were so good that Marcel Desailly had to play as a midfielder to make the starting line-up. What I am trying to say is that with every legendary defender that hung his boots up, another world class defender has taken his spot. Baresi was replaced by Costacurta and Maldini, they were replaced with Nesta, and now Thiago Silva is stepping up to replace his world class team mate.

The Roman born defender has seen and conquered all, like his ancestors during the Roman Empire. Nesta came up through the ranks at Lazio, the club he supported as a boy. After making his debut in 1993, he has gone on to win countless trophies both individually and from a team’s perspective. It is not your average trophy cabinet. Winning three Serie A titles, two Champions League competitions, and the World Cup in 2006 is a collection only very few have. England gave football to the world, but Italy gave us the art of defending. A stereotypical Italian defender is one that has the look of a model, doesn't  possess blinding speed but they are already two steps ahead of the attacker, so why do you need pace? On set pieces they are so tight, it is like they are sharing the same pair of shorts with the opponent. On Nesta’s first birthday I am sure that his father gave him the book ‘The basics of Catenaccio’, which has all the tricks of the trades when it comes to defending. Holding players shirts so they cannot jump, stamp on a strikers foot before a corner is taken, and most importantly work on that look of innocence. The Roman had all the tricks to go along with the talent that he nurtured over the years with Lazio, AC Milan, and Italy. To replace such a man is an immense task, almost as immense as the one that he had replacing two legends in that Milan defense. Thiago Silva will not have to replace Nesta this season but that time will come sooner rather than later, so he better be ready.

Silva, was born in a country that is famous for attacking football and flair. Kids want to be like Ronaldo, Neymar, or Ronaldinho, not Thiago Silva. The next generation of Brazilian footballers however, have a different look than previous generations that came before them. They are seeing an influx of defensive minded players, whether it’s in midfield or at the back. Names like David Luiz, the Da Silva twins, Dani Alves, along with Thiago Silva are Brazilian defenders that are creating a name for themselves. Not for their flair or moments of brilliance but for their defensive skills. Thiago Emiliano da Silva joined AC Milan in 2009 from Brazilian giants, Fluminense. He is over 6ft tall, strong, comfortable on the ball, and unlike Nesta, outrageously athletic. Training alongside Nesta and Maldini every day has taken the Brazilian’s game to another level.  How could it not? He was learning from the best in the business. He was always good on the ball, naturally being from Brazil but his defending was not up to par.  Carlo Ancelotti, the ex Milan and Chelsea manager, recently described fellow Brazilian David Luiz’s defensive displays as “too positive”.  The £21 million defender believes he can win every ball that comes his way. When it works it’s great but if it doesn't it usually spells trouble. I would also brand Silva as “too positive” but unlike David Luiz, Silva has tried to become more patient and has really improved his performances, especially in big games.

Nesta and Silva lined up together in the opening game of the Serie A season Friday night, but will this be Nesta’s last season? You can never be sure with Italians, but if it is his swan song, then it's goodbye to a legend and the coming out party for the other.

Top 5 Stories of the Window

So, this summer’s transfer window came to a close on Wednesday and whilst the rest of the world is in a recession, football’s spending keeps on growing. Over £430 million spent in this window and as usual the big bucks were spent on attacking players such as Juan Mata, Alexis Sanchez, Cesc Fabregas, and Sergio Aguero. That being said, defenders were regularly on the back pages and gossip columns. So let’s look at the top five stories over the last few months involving the men at the back.

New Gooners

Firstly we have to look at the changes Arsenal made at the back. I don’t know if that Sunday at Old Trafford convinced the indecisive Frenchman to act in this window, but was the main focus in the last few hours. He shipped out Armand Traore across London to QPR, bringing in Per Metersacker and Andre Santos. I am not sure about the Andre Santos deal, is he a significant improvement? We will have to see but the German will give them height and aggression at the back which they desperately needed.

The next has to be the lack of major defensive signings around Europe. As an Englishman, I pay most of my attention towards the Premier League. Since starting Defensive Discussions, I now find myself watching an array of games from across the globe. Real Madrid strengthened at left back, a position that they already have Marcelo occupying, which seems like a waste to me. Mourinho should have signed a partner for Ricardo Carvalho and is now left with the hotheaded Portugese defender, Pepe. Danish international, Simon Kjaer signed with Italian giants Roma whilst Brazilian legend, Roberto Carlos returned to Europe. Russian side, Anzhi Makhachkala brought back the left back, after returning home for two years back with Corinthians. The club was bought by a Russian billionaire and as we know, they don't mess about. Along with Carlos, the new owner brought in players such as ex Chelsea winger Yuri Zhirkov and Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o. The surprise was that Barcelona stuck Mascherano as their third choice centre half, who has enjoyed a spell at the back for the Catalan giants.

A new start

Manchester United, who had the third best defense in Premier League last year, still saw fit to make big changes at the back. Old boys Wes Brown and John O’Shea were both sold to Sunderland whilst Richie De Laet was shipped out on loan to Premier League new boys, Norwich City. Center back was a position of strength at United, with the option of picking Vidic, Ferdinand, or Smalling who really stepped up to the mark last year. Sir Alex decided to strengthen further with the talented Englishman, Phil Jones from Blackburn Rovers.  Jones is expected to play in his fair share of matches this season, as Rio Ferdinand’s body is struggling to cope with the demands of top flight football

Talking about Phil Jones, here at Defensive Discussions we wrote a piece named ‘Are the Cubs Ready to Become Lions’ which discussed the future of England's back four. Names like Cahill, Jones, Smalling, and Shawcross were all mention as candidates to replace Terry and Ferdinand. I was looking for Cahill, Shawcross, and Jones to move to so called ‘bigger’ clubs. Since then Stoke are playing in Europe and Phil Jones has joined Chris Smalling at Manchester United, which can only benefit our national team. One of the biggest disappointments of ‘Transfer Deadline Day’ was the fact that Gary Cahill couldn’t seal a move to either Spurs or Arsenal. I love Owen Coyle and his work at the Reebok, but feel like Cahill would benefit playing with better players on the biggest stage. This weekend playing for England, he did not look out of place next to world class defender, John Terry.

Only 8 caps for
such a talent

My favourite and final story of this transfer window was Jonathan Woodgate’s move to Stoke City on a free transfer. The center back has been riddled with injuries and hope for his sake that his body can cope with what the season brings. If the ex Real Madrid defender can stay fit and play in thirty games or more, it could be one of the signings of the year.

Please share your thoughts,opinions, and views on this article or any article we have posted. For more that is Defensive Discussions follow us on Twitter @DefDiscussions

Is it Time for Wenger to do the Samba?

Today, I saw a legendary figure confirm to the world he has “lost the plot” in the words of Arsenal fan, Piers Morgan. Arsenal and manager Arséne Wenger hit rock bottom today, but after the 8-2 defeat to bitter rivals Manchester United, the Frenchman insisted he will not resign. There is a banner on view at the Emirates Stadium saying ‘In Arsène We Trust’ and believe that’s the boards view also. With this being said along with the imminent closure of the transfer window, how is Wenger going to turn this team around?

Do You? The defiant Arsenal manager, when asked after such a performance if bringing in players in the next three days is even more critical, he responded "I know that in England when you lose a game signings are always the solution," adding "We had eight players out today. Anybody would suffer with eight players missing." Great Defenders=Trophies  Is this man serious? Is this the same man that brought in the likes of Patrick Viera, Emmanuel Petit, Thierry Henry, and Marc Overmars? All four were bought by Wenger, not at sixteen years old but experienced enough to make an impact right away. Add these players to one of the greatest defences in Premier League history and you have a top tier team, challenging for honours every year. Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Martin Keown, Steve Bould, and Nigel Winterburn are the defenders that set the standard for future back fours at Arsenal. They were English, tough tackling, strong mentally as well as physically, and most important of all great defenders. They were not only good individual defenders but collectively too. Lee Dixon and Nigel Winterburn would never have let Nani or Ashley Young make a mockery of them. I am not saying they could lock them down, but at least they would have put in a tackle or two, instead of being used as manikins. Each and every one of them loved defending and took pride in their work. English fans are like Sunday league managers, they want defenders to win headers, put in hard challenges, and show loyalty to their club. The fab five are all English too and fans want to see home grown talent playing for their club. This is the reason why English players are so expensive compared to the rest of the world. They understand the Premier League and what it takes to keep clean sheets and win matches in England.

Help!

Let’s compare the current defenders at the club to Adams and co. The difference is night and day and it is not because they are foreign. One of my favourite players in Nermanja Vidic from Serbia and there has been so many great foreign defenders that have played in the Premier League over the years. As a defender you have to love defending. This involves you putting your head where it hurts, winning your one on one battles, and being an unsung hero. The players I see, especially Djourou and Koscielny don't want to do the dirty work. They want to be on the ball and make nice, pretty passes. All of them seem to shy away from any contact and don't seem like they love the defensive side of the game. They are defenders its your job! There are no leaders apart from Vermaelen, weak mentally and physically, and certainly are not players that fans can relate to. Would Adams or Keown let a ball bounce in the 18 yard box? All four looked lost yesterday and it's frightening that Wenger believes that such players are good enough for the Gunners.Wenger has shown he has an eye for defenders in the past.The like of  Ashley Cole, Sol Campbell, William Gallas, along with current defenders Bacary Sagna and Thomas Vermaelen are all Wenger's players. He also sold Matthew Upson knowing that he was not a top class defender. So why does he only have two quality defenders in the squad and how Djourou is still at the club is beyond me?

Can you blame him?

Piers Morgan announced on American TV, that according to his sources within Arsenal, Wenger has a £70 million war chest to spend. They need to replace Arshavin and upgrade positions that are currently held by Theo Walcott and Tomas Rosicky, but the back line is where they should start. Ever since Sol Campbell and Ashley Cole left the club it has been an issue. We at Defensive Discussions and every other football fan has recognized for sometime that the back four has been their weakness. After last season's defensive mishaps that cost them the title, everyone thought we would see some new defenders at the Emirates. We did, Carl Jenkinson, a player that played non league football 18 months ago. They have reportedly put two dismal offers in for England internationals, Phil Jagielka and Gary Cahill but both were rejected. They also lost Gael Clichy and so called 'experts' doubted that the Frenchman would be a  big loss. Neither Traore or Gibbs have stepped up to the plate and is now looking like a bigger loss than these 'experts' first envisioned . 

So in the next two days, Wenger needs to find a partner for Vermaelen and spend some of that £70 million available. Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka, and Christopher Samba are all names that have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium. The right players are out there but is Wenger the right man to bring them in? The Strasbourg born Frenchman, is known for being indecisive when it comes to his assessment of players and has missed out on some great talent. Ashley Young, who scored two goals Sunday, was one of those players he missed out on.

"Well,I'm going to say what most fans are thinking

but don't want to admit : #Arsenal need a new manager"Piers Morgan

I am not saying that Wenger should be fired or resign, but what I saw yesterday was an Arsenal team that we as football fans are not used to seeing. Arsenal NEEDS to spend money and after witnessing such a game, can Arsenal fans really blame Nasri and Fabregas for wanting out? If Koscielny was my center back and wanting to challenge for honours, I would want to leave too. They say money can’t buy you happiness but it sure can buy you trophies, Chelsea being a prime example.

Arsenal fans have your say, do you agree with Piers Morgan saying that Wenger should go?Who would you like to see Wenger bring in before Wednesday's deadline? I welcome all comments and opinions. You can also find us on twitter @DefDiscussions

A Defensive Discussion with.......

Today, I would like you to meet Neal Trotman. The 25 year old centre back was born in Manchester, England and this summer signed with League One outfit, Rochdale A.F.C. Trotman started his career with Burnley as a youth team player, before Oldham Athletic took a chance on the young centre back in 2006.The Latics gave him his first team debut and since that day, Neal has been through a lot. From the highs of being bought for £500,000 by Preston North End, to the lows of being loaned out to more than one club in the same season. Football is a tough business but is now looking forward to the new season and hopefully some stability. Defensive Discussions was given the opportunity to catch up with the defender after this weekend’s game against old team, Oldham Athletic.

First of all, how are you settling into your new club Rochdale?

Very well, the lads are quality and made me feel right at home here. 

How did you find being a free agent?

The free agency process was quite exciting, but not playing much last season could have made it an anxious and emotional time. Luckily a few clubs contacted me and I am very happy with my decision, joining Rochdale.

What are your goals for the season both as a team and individually?

My goal is to play as many games as possible because there is nothing better than first team football. Team wise, to improve on our 9^th place finish from last season and look towards the playoffs

I first met you as a youth team player at Burnley, which part of your game has improved the most since then?

I would say my understanding of the game has improved. I can read the game better and has made first team football a lot easier. It is hard for a young player coming into the 1st team football because experience almost puts a player one step ahead.

Best defender you have played with?

Sean St Ledger, Chris Perry and Radhi Jaidi were all good in their own right and learnt a lot from all three.

Best defender you played against?

Gerard Pique and Gabriel Heinze were different class when I faced them during their time at Manchester United.

You have played for eight professional clubs including Burnley, which team had the best banter?

I haven’t been at Rochdale long enough to put them in the mix. I would have to say Oldham and Burnley because I was a youth team player at the time and had a license to be immature.

Longest in the shower?

I would have to say our keeper, David Lucas

I would like to thank Neal for his time and wish him and Rochdale the best for the 2011/12 season. 

Find us on Twitter for even more discussions on defending,defenders and any other football related topics  @DefDiscussions