MRS D's FOOTY FEST

Under Armour COMPETITION - Read on for full details

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 09:25:00 +0000

Under Armour (the performance apparel people!) have launched a UK Facebook site!

Visit the Facebook page here: www.facebook.com/underarmouruk

To celebrate the launch, I have 10 Under Armour beanie hats to give away to you lovely people. Simply Retweet this post link via Twitter to be in with a chance of winning!

Winners will be announced on Friday. Good luck!

Subscribe to The Feed!

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 17:04:00 +0000

Don't forget that to keep up with the latest posts on the Mrs D Footy Fest Blog (or to know to give me a nudge if not updated often enough), you can subscribe to the email feed on the right hand side! It only takes a moment.

Toodlepip...

International Friendly ....or International Foolery?

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:45:00 +0000

Do we really need an International Friendly against France?

Tomorrow sees a thoroughly depleted 'England' side take on the (not so) might of France in an International Friendly at Wembley Stadium. Is it absolutely necessary? Will we achieve anything other than injuries and fatigue in the run up to what is traditionally a very busy period in the Premier League calendar?

Below, I've listed a few pro's and con's as I see them - what are your thoughts?

Pro's:
Revenue generation for the FA - of course this is the main consideration on their part
A chance to have a go at the French - always welcomed
An opportunity to give some youngsters a run out - the likes of Andy Carroll, Jordan Henderson etc will no doubt play some part, and it's good for the manager to have a look at them (although I'm still bemused by the omission of Ryan Shawcross!)
A nice day out for a reasonable price due to all the promotional offers the FA have had to lay on to get people to the Stadium - not that I'll ever knock those tactics, a full ground is a happy ground!
It's another match to watch - never a bad thing!

Con's:
Only half or so of the team will be England 'regulars' - not exactly qualifier preparation
The newbies that get a nod will get their time to shine, but will Fab REALLY be brave enough to pick them for a qualifier? - I hope so personally
Those that play are at risk of injury in a busy time for club football - they do have a 'day job' afterall

My personal conclusion is that aside from the risk of injury there's really no harm in hosting an International Friendly, although the timing somewhat bothers me. Even with the acceptance that the busy period isn't quite yet upon us, an injury tomorrow could take a player out to the New Year.
Still - it must be amazing to play for your Country and the more of these games we have the more opportunities for our younger players arise... In turn, that realization of genuine opportunity may well rub off on the youngsters playing in the park dreaming of playing for England themselves one day, and that can only be good.... right?

Would love to know your thoughts folks.
Toodlepip for now...

In Out, In Out, Shake It All About!

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0000

Once again, sincere apologies for the lack of non-automated action from the Mrs D Family.
This is something that we are working very hard on behind the scenes and I promise that normal service will soon be resumed.

In the meantime, why not comment here or on Twitter with your thoughts on the latest goings on?

Toodlepip for now,
Mrs D

The End Of The First Round - Thankfully!

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 18:04:00 +0000

The South Africa -v- Uraguay match tonight signals the start of the second round of matches in the Fifa World Cup 2010.... and hopefully it will be an improvement on the first round!

The first round has been largely disappointing, with Argentina and Germany looking the most lively. Although Argentina only managed the one goal versus Ghana, it was as a result of an inspired goalkeeping performance rather than a lack of attack. Any other night and the South American's could've had 5 or 6 hit the back of the net. Germany were confident, comfortable and cruising when putting 4 away, with some suggesting that their decision to accept the use of the official WC ball played to their advantage.

France, England, Italy, Portugal, Brazil and most notably Spain have failed to do anything spectacular (other than lose in Spain's case) as yet, leaving us wondering if this could be the lowest scoring WC of recent times.

I would like to think that the lack of flare for the most part has been down to a cautious approach towards losing their opening matches, and hopefully the second round should enable some of those fears to be subdued.... they are going to have to be in many instances, as the draws and surprise losses have now piled the pressure onto the big guns.

COME ON BEST TEAMS IN THE WORLD - SHOW US WHAT YOU'RE MADE OF!

Brilliant Brazil?

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 17:22:00 +0000

Are we right to expect an epic performance from Brazil tonight?

YES - we desire a great performance, with only Argentina and Germany producing anything near exciting so far.
YES - you would immediately expect Brazil to be one of the teams to challenge for the title
and YES - they are playing one of the weakest teams in the competition in their first match....

BUT - look at their recent performances, and how will Kaka and Robinho's domestic season's affect their International display? Is Ilano really fit for the standard you would expect from Brazil?

I think that Brazil will win tonight, and probably comfortably so - but I also think there's a danger of an anti-climax

MRS D Is Back!

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:18:00 +0000

Good Evening All,

You may or may not be pleased to learn that the technical difficulties and illness that have blighted me for the past 6-9mths seem to be behind us, just in time to catch up with the World Cup gossip and reaction!

Please do be aware though that my time is a little more limited, so although I'm back you may find that things aren't as regular as they once were. Still, it's a start.
I hope to hear from you all soon on Twitter as well as on here.

I'll post my thoughts on the WC so far and to come in due course.

Toodlepip
Mrs D

PS: Why not take your World Cup chat and discussions to the Mrs D Footy Fest Forum @ http://www.mrsduk.proboards.com/

Championship Buzz

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 10:26:00 +0000

Ok, I have to admit that since my fabulous team was elevated to the heights of the Premier League, I've somewhat neglected my duty to follow the Championship as closely.... There is however, reason for this - and it's strange what you miss at the time.
When we were in the Championship, I was attending Championship matches, listening out for Championship results and watching Championship highlights...All the while not being able to escape the Premier League goings on with Match of The Day and the likes as well as huge media coverage and plenty of live matches.

It was only last night that it occurred to me how much less coverage lower leagues get. Although as a fan of football I try to follow all leagues and all goings on, I don't often have the opportunity to watch live games outside of the Premier League.
The source of this realisation was the buzz that I got last night from watching the wonderful match between Watford and Sheffield Wednesday. It reminded me if everything I love about football. A good atmosphere on a cold damp night, an array of talent (usually on loan from bigger clubs like Cleverly) and the expectation of goals. There were scraps for the ball mixed with sublime skill in a match that despite the 4-1 result looked at times like it could go either way. I enjoyed every second!

Sadly, the gulf between the Premier League and any other is widening by the year, and so too is the gap between the Championship and League 1 now. Last night reminded me that away from the glamour and profile of the top tier we have great games and great talent.
Thank you Watford and Sheffield Wednesday!

Toodlepip

Hope For Powell, As Things Go South For Gareth

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:30:00 +0000

Grimsby have today said that they would consider an application from England Ladies coach Hope Powell, amid media speculation that an application would be made. The FA have been quick to deny the speculation, but as yet nothing has been heard from the Lady herself.

Much as I could never see it happening, Grimsby would of course have to consider an application so as not to discriminate. One would like to think that if an application was made it would be treated fairly and with equal measure to any application made by a male candidate. I for one would be 100% behind Hope. She has the qualifications and certainly has experience at the highest level with the FA and our wonderful national Womens team. Would it really be such a stretch to see her in the football league, applying those same qualifications and techniques?

I think unfortunately right now, the world isn't ready to see a woman in charge in the mens game. Perhaps Grimsby will be brave? I do wonder though, how much of this speculation has come from Grimsby themselves? It certainly has people talking about the club and the vacancy...I hope for Hope's sake that it's not just some big publicity stunt, even if it did result in her being offered the position. It'd mean nothing if it were for the wrong reasons. How would the chaps of Grimsby feel about taking orders from a female?

Elsewhere, the patience that Middlesbrough Chairman Steve Gibson has shown Gareth Southgate has finally ran out. Southgate was shown the door last night, ironically after a 2-0 win over Derby. Gibson has issued a statement to make it clear that the decision had been taken before last nights game. The timing may seem odd to most, but given the bookies odds on Strachan taking the hot seat it may be that this has been planned for some time...One may even suggest that it may have been discussed with Strachan in the summer, with him agreeing to join at a particular time - i.e now. Maybe I'm doing the 'Boro board a disservice there, but it certainly odd to have stood by Southgate thus far yet still sack him regardless of a favourable league position. Personally I would've liked to have seen him given the chance to take them back up....but then it's not my club.

Do you have any thoughts on either of these stories, or anything else you'd like to share? Comment here, or on the message boards at www.mrsduk.proboards.com

Toodlepip!

Remembering Sir Stan

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:01:00 +0000

With Stoke facing Blackpool tonight in the 3rd round of the league cup, it brings to the forefront of my mind the great service and dedication of Stoke's own Sir Stanley Matthews.

One of the greatest players ever in our game, divided his professional domestic career between just two clubs; his home club Stoke City and Blackpool. He also won 54 England caps. Sir Stan was a true professional, keeping himself so fit that he was able to play at the top levels of the game until he was 50.... absolutely unthinkable by today's standards. He played his final match in Malta at the age of 55! Winner of the first ever Ballon D'or and one of the first inductees into The English Football Hall of Fame amongst other accolades (not least his Knighthood for services to sport), Sir Stan truly is a Legend and an inspiration - not only as a great footballer, but as a great Man.
I could write so much about this wonderful man, but I would urge anyone to find out about him themselves - only then will they discover everything that made him so special.

Of course I can't mention one great, without mention of another who was honoured this week. Sir Bobby Robson was a true gentleman and a wonderful ambassador for the game that we love so much. It was wonderful to see such a lovely turn out to the remembrance service in Durham in a fitting tribute to a fabulous character.

London Calling

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:01:00 +0000

Lest we forget - following the Manchester derby today, we have a clash of two London giants ahead this afternoon too as Chelsea take on Tottenham Hotspur at the Bridge.

There are interesting parallels between the two matches today, as Spurs are emerging as a force to be reckoned with this season under Harry Redknapp. Many are tipping Spurs to threaten the top 4 along with Manchester City this year, and the match against the recently superior Chelsea will go a long way to guaging how far they've come over the past 12 mths.

Neither side have any new injuries to be concerned with, although Joe Cole isn't yet expected to return for Chelsea and Tottenham are missing Modric's skill in the midfield.

I predict an upset here, I think Spurs may nick it by a goal if Defoe continues his incredible form.

Toodlepip

The Big Match: Man Utd -v- Man City

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 10:24:00 +0000

Today see's the first 'Big' Premier League game of the season, as the red and blue half of Manchester face off in the Manchester Derby.

Although City have enjoyed some success in recent seasons, it's fair to say that it was a pleasant surprise for the Blues. This season however sees a genuine hope and belief that City can out play their biggest rivals following the splurge of summer signings.

Neither team will be at full strength today. Man City are without Adebayor who is starting his 3 match ban for his stamp on Arsenal's Van Persie, Tevez is doubtful with a knee injury, Robinho is out injured and Stephen Ireland has been struggling with an ankle injury. Utd are without first choice keeper Van Der Sar, Scholes is suspended and Ferdinand is also doubtful with a groin problem. Despite these set backs, the depth of the two squads make today's match a really tasty proposition. I would expect Utd to cope with their absences better than City will with theirs....but, this IS the derby and as such anything could happen.

I expect this match to be won and lost in midfield, but much will depend on how well City can take any chances that come their way with their depleted strike force. I predict a Utd win this time around, but the Reds may want to make the most of this match.... things may well be different at Eastlands.

Toodlepip

Announcement Regarding Twitter - Please Read

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:15:00 +0000

Some followers of @MrsD_FootyFest dropped by twitter (viral maybe),I haven't blocked anyone!

Please refollow!

Toodlepip...

FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE ON PREMIERLEAGUE.COM

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:59:00 +0000

It's that time of year folks where the excitement of the new season is heightened by the creation of our Fanstasy Football Teams!

The Mrs D Household has set up a mini league at http://fantasy.premierleague.com Simply use the code 558672-123977 to add your team to the Mrs D Footy Fest league once you've selected your team.
Team set up is entirely free, and the winner of the Mrs D League will win some Mrs D Footy Fest goodies.

There's also a thread on the message boards at www.mrsduk.proboards.com to discuss all things fantasy football!

Let's have some fun....

Best Transfer News So Far This Summer...

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:27:00 +0000

...Well, for me at least!

Liam 'Lenny' Lawrence has signed a 4yr contract extension at The Britannia. Following Delap's recent extension and Shawcross' statement of commitment recently, the big boys of the Potters are showing their faith and pride in what we have going on there. Liam is undoubtedly a very important player for us, and a fans favourite. He's also struck up a remarkable relationship with James Beattie which is clear to all and great to see.

Thanks Lenny - I look forward to seeing you grace our pitch for many more years to come!

Adebayor to Manchester City?

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:12:00 +0000

Reports this afternoon suggest that Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor may be on his way to Manchester City...

At the moment the suggestion is simply that of 'talks' taking place, although neither club will comment on the situation. It does seem though that if a deal were to be agreed between the clubs, Adebayor would be prepared to move. We are all aware of the turbulent time he had last season, and many questioned his commitment to the Arsenal cause. Could this move be welcomed by all concerned?
This of course is alongside increased anticipation of Carlos Tevez' move to the blue side of Manchester. It appears that this deal is nearing a close, and we should hear an official confirmation of the move very soon indeed.

Would Adebayor be a good signing for City? How/would Arsenal replace him quickly enough for a new player to settle in in time for the new season? Have these wheels been in motion for longer than we may be led to believe - perhaps Wenger already has a replacement lined up?

Feel free to share your thoughts on this, and any other transfer story on the Transfers thread at the message boards: www.mrsduk.proboards.com

Toodlepip...

HANDS OFF MY RYAN!

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 09:39:00 +0000

HANDS OFF MY RYAN!

Thankfully despite reported interest from a few clubs including Tottenham, Ryan Shawcross has pledged his future to my beloved Stoke City. Shawcross was an instant hit with the Brit faithful when he joined on loan from Man Utd 2 seasons ago. That was soon followed by a permanent move for £1m. The England U21 international has been worth every penny. Winning the fans Young Player of the Year award in the 07/08 season, Shawcross' 8 headed goals from his central defensive position were vital in our successful promotion campaign.

Not surprisingly his consistent performances in the latter half of last season, and his maturity at such a young age have attracted the attention of other clubs. Although I was always confident in his commitment to the club, the figures that were being talked about worried me into wondering if the club would let him go if the price was right. That for me would have been disastrous. We are not a selling club like our poor relations Vale and Crewe, and Shawcross is exactly the type of player we need to be keeping hold of and developing if we are to sustain our position in the World's best league. I am so pleased to see reports today of his stated commitment to the cause. He is one of my favourite players at the club, and has the potential to become a club legend if he were to hang around for a number of years (hey - it could happen!).

So - you teams that failed to see his potential before, hands off. One of our esteemed managers strengths is using the loan market well to have a look at potential signings as well as steadying the ship in times of need. He has the knack and we're fortunate to have both him and Ryan at our club. Ryan is a Potter and will be for the foreseeable future.... watch out strikers and defenders alike!

More Bad News For The Football World

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 07:44:00 +0000

The Sun has this morning reported more bad news regarding an ex-footballer.
Former Wales International, West Ham, Arsenal and Celtic forward John Hartson has been diagnosed with brain cancer at just 34 years old. The powerhouse went to hospital with complaints of splitting headaches, and is due to start chemotherapy treatment today.

Once again, the thoughts of all at the Mrs D household go out to John and his family at this difficult time. Good luck with your treatment, and we wish you a healthy recovery...

Sympathy To The Hendry Family, And Get Well Soon Micah

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:27:00 +0000

Former Scotland International Captain Colin Hendry has lost his wife following long standing complications after cosmetic surgery.
Denise Hendry had liposuction in 2002 to regain her figure after the birth of the couples fourth child. During the original procedure carried out at a private practice, Denise contracted a serious infection and was left fighting for her life. Having recovered from the original infection, Denise then had to undergo a number of corrective procedures to combat the damage caused by the botched cosmetic procedure. After her latest operation just 12 weeks ago, which was hoped to be the last, it is believed that an infection similar to meningitis was contracted. The 43 year old was in intensive care at Salford Royal Hospital and despite further operations to try and save her, she passed away yesterday.
The Mrs D Household would like to express their deepest sympathy to the Hendry family...

Elsewhere, Micah Richards has contracted Swine flue while partying in Ayia Napa.
The Manchester City and England U21 star hopes to return to the UK tomorrow, having been originally due to return on Wednesday. Richards is taking Tamiflu, and given his all round strength and health one would expect him to make a full and speedy recovery.
Get well soon Micah!

Toodlepip for now...

Snub For Sir Alex - Do The Money Men Win Again?

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 06:07:00 +0000

Well, how must Sir Alex be feeling now?

Not only has long term rival Real Madrid tempted his star player Ronaldo away, the club has also beaten him to the signing of long time target french youngster Karim Benzema. The 21 year old snubbed Utd, Barcelona and Inter to sign for Madrid, in what is becoming a long line of new additions to the Spanish giants. To be absolutely fair to the youngster he, like Ronaldo, stated that he has always dreamed of playing for Madrid and perhaps it would be totally unfair of me to suggest that the money has been more than a passing concern in his decision making. Who can blame a lad for wanting to fulfill his dream?

Perhaps this will serve as a reality check for the perceived irresistible Premier League Champions, and they will come to realise that not every player is certain to want to sign for them.

Of course one wonders once again how many recent transfer decisions have been made on the basis of anything other than the wage packet? Cynical of me perhaps, but with Madrid spending over £180m in transfers already this summer it has to be assumed that wages aren't a problem either - especially given the standard of the players that have made the move. Then we have to look at Gareth Barry, who certainly can't be blamed for moving from Villa regardless of the excellent progress they've made. Liverpool have been publicly courting him since last summer, and from remarks that Barry made it seemed that he was desperate to join them too. Liverpool certainly put on a much better show of challenging on all fronts last season, particularly for the Premier League title; yet Barry chose to move to the money mill of Manchester City. That could be doing Barry a dis-service though... He's always come across as a genuine fella, and perhaps the prospect of things to come at City tugged him into giving them a go? Mr. Benitez is certainly not so sure on Barry's motives, and has stated so publicly which I think is a little unfair. My view - give the lad the benefit of the doubt.

Still, money is the way of the world; and if you are the best at what you do in any walk of life you would expect to be well remunerated for your skills...right? Much as I disagree with the extortionate amounts that professional footballers can be bought/sold for and paid, I do appreciate that they are still only humans used as pawns in business and have to look out for themselves and their families.

Of course the money men win above all else, but the players don't get a bad deal either. It seems the only people to suffer really are those fans that can no longer afford to go and watch our beautiful game live.

The Saints Are Smiling

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:12:00 +0000

Southampton FC finally have their future secured after investment from a Swiss multi-billionaire.

German born Markus Liebherr has saved the Saints from closure as a football club after the club has sat in administration since the end of last season. Things were looking bleak for yet another of our football clubs after the proposed buyout by The Pinnacle Group fronted by Southampton legend Matt LeTissier fell through.

Much as I don't have any particular love of Southampton, I do hate to see our wonderful game and those who enjoy playing it at the highest level threatened in such a way. However, these circumstance's (particularly in 'larger' clubs) are of the industry's own making. With the way that the game has progressed to spin on money rather than skill, it's no wonder that some clubs struggle to keep their heads above water. If we see 'bigger' clubs struggling, how on earth do we expect smaller clubs to cope? I understand that TV money and Champions League cash reward those clubs that play well enough to take part in the televised matches, the ratio of Premier League games to lower league is ridiculous. It's argued that the fans want to see the high quality football, but I'm sure many football purists would enjoy watching our lower league scraps too - some may even be surprised at the quality those lower leagues contain.

These things can't be changed overnight, and unfortunately the story of the Saints and other smaller clubs of late will become more and more frequent until something is done to change the way in which the wealth is distributed.

Good luck Southampton, here's hoping that your new board are wise and guide your club sensibly...

Message Board Misery

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:41:00 +0000

The Mrs D Message Board is feeling a little neglected folks! There's not a great deal of activity at all, even though we have many followers of the blog and on Twitter.

Jump on over to the boards to have your say on absolutely anything - there's a place for it all wether in be football, other sports or nothing sports related at all! It takes a minute to sign up and then the community is all yours. See those people who regularly tweet... why not meet up on the board to exchange views?

The fate of the boards is up to you folks!
Toodlepip

Under Armour - The New Super Boots?

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 07:54:00 +0000

The recently released 'Under Armour' Football Boot Range really does seem to give armour to the wearer.

With the 'Dominate' and 'Create' products, retailing between £100-£120 these are the boots that all the boys and girls should be wearing.
The Dominate specification speaks for itself, in the lowest level of detail they have an 'external moisture management system' to manage our wet weather - not only does this feature involve extreme water resistance, it includes a lace designed specifically to assist with the control of the ball whatever the weather. There is extra support and protection around the metatarsal area which we all know can be incredibly fragile, an extra layer of protection for the whole foot to protect in challenges. The design also boasts the ability to provide up to 30% more power when striking the ball. The internal footbed moulds to the user for increased comfort and also provides great shock absorption.
The 'Create' product has many of the features of the Dominate shoe, but not in quite so much depth.

On top of the great techncial specification the boots look fabulous too, available in both black and white in both products! As a female, naturally that's the first thing I look to. The boots ooze quality and look incredible despite the simplicity of the design. In my opinion though, the 'Create' boot edges the 'Dominate' in the style stakes. The beauty of the boot is in it's specification so the look of them is an absolute bonus. Fulham's Bobby Zamora is already a fan and wears the boots.

The only downside to these boots is the limited stockists as it's a specialised product. Parents - although you will always cringe when seeing your child involved in a strong tackle, or when they miss-hit the ball; put them in these boots and you'll soon see that you needn't worry half as much! In my personal opinion, given the minimal difference in price between the two styles I'd splash out on the Dominate every time (sorry!).

In summary, Under Amour Dominate and Create boots provide ultimate protection, ultimate comfort, ultimate control, and ultimate style. The new super boots?... ABSOLUTELY!

Visit the official UA website HERE for more details and stockists, and check out the pictures below.
Would love to know your thoughts folks:

Transfers!

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 07:33:00 +0000

Well, I've missed so much lately (sorry folks!) but of course at this time of year in our wonderful sport, the focus is all on the comings and goings at clubs around the world...

The big news so far has been the splashing of the cash by Spanish Giants Real Madrid, firstly on AC Milan superstar Kaka, a Manchester City target, at £53m. Then came the conclusion to the ongoing 'Ronaldo Saga' with the Utd player finally signing for Madrid, netting Utd £80m... Personally I'm glad to see the whole Ronaldo issue put to bed, although it's still bubbling slightly with ex-Real President Ramon Calderon claiming to have set the deal up back in December.
What are your thoughts on the signings by Madrid?

Perhaps the most surprising transfer so far is the addition of Michael Owen to the Man Utd ranks. There was no doubt that Owen was going to leave relegated Newcastle on a free transfer as his contract had come to an end, but the likes of my beloved Stoke and fellow minnows Hull were sniffing around, along with reported interest from Everton seemed a more likely proposition. Still, I can't imagine that anyone could hold the move against the lad. He's been stung by injury throughout his career, but will do a good job as a super sub. Perhaps Owen will become Utd's new Solksjaer? Good luck Michael!

The transfer that may push Owen's move for most surprising is the move of Ross Turnbull from relegated Middlesborough to Chelsea. Turnbull has also been joined by Manchester City's out of contract youngster Danny Sturridge. Sturridge has a promising future and should learn a lot from his new Chelsea team mates.

Of course there have been many other transfers already in this window, and there will be many more to come no doubt! I'd love to see your thoughts on the completed transfers, transfer rumours, and your transfer wish lists here (registration is required).

Toodlepip for now...

FINALLY BACK ONLINE!

noreply@blogger.com (Mrs D) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:37:00 +0000

HI FOLKS.... FINALLY AFTER WEEKS OF TRAUMATIC INTERNET ISSUES, I'VE CHANGED MY SERVICE PROVIDER AND GOTTEN BACK ONLINE!

I have been assured by my new provider that my service will be much more stable, and quicker too which is a bonus. Have got some catching up to do!

Toodlepip for now...