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Messi Even the describing text is explaining how shite he's been at the WC.

It's not fair comparing Sweden, Norway and Belgium with Brazil though. The sheer numbers of youngsters playing football for one thing - small countries can't afford losing talents but have to make sure as many talents as possible make it all the way.

When did you live there? It's fairly common knowledge that they changed their youth development policies quite drastically (not just when it comes to separating players but many other aspects, like what the training sessions should focus on), think it was in the early 2000's or late 90's. Most Belgian clubs follow these guidelines.

Agreed. x100 We're too scared of it, it's pure scandinavian mentality, no one should be better than anyone. It's just ridiculous. This, however, I don't agree with. Just have to look at the Belgians and their success story of the last decade. They decided to really change their approach to youth development; they don't seperate players until 14 years of age. And when they do split up the group of players they consider the players' physical development, not their overall quality. This way they minimise the risk of losing good players who develop later.

I can't for the life of me understand why they feel the need to release that statement, but then I don't really care. That earlier pic with Pardew holding the sign is quite remarkable as it shows a football manager taunting the fans of the club he's managing. He should apologise, and that should be the statement of today. But the club/board don't give a fuck, of course. There's a yawning chasm between the club and the fans.

Its debatable like, if we hadn't collapsed we would have finished ahead of them They play brilliant football though. Impressive amount of young local players coming through. Mainly down to their academy obviously but Pochettino is clearly giving the young players the opportunity to prosper.

Expected but aye.

Ah, the homophobe.

Flights are always late though. Don't think that helps matters Guess not

Lovenkrands released as well!

Flights are always late though.

N-O alternate team thread material, no doubt.

Similar to this Argentina one: http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e358/chilliefish/376670_10151004086788093_911927991_n.jpg

Think I'll support Bosnia and England. Can't stand Stevie Gee though.

Forget about reckless tackles, shirt pulling and intentional handball, what has to be stopped at all costs is kicking loose balls at perfectly normal speed towards the dugouts.

If we'd have ambition we'd battle for a CL spot: Krul Debuchy MYM Colo Haidara/Santon Tiote Anita Cabaye HBA Ba Remy

He's won all season. IIRC, he was a right cunt when he played.

He should fucking use it.

You're weird. Because he doesn't like fascist cunts?

Wrong again.

Yeah, alright Souness.