The Last King of Scotland
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santiago_hortez
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Good debate going on there. I thought Charlie Adam would be the best out there. We needed a young captain who would improve in the future as he ages, and Adam fitted the bill perfectly. Fletcher, with his experience, would be an able assistant.
I've noticed Goodwillie too. He will feature in my squads sometime soon. By the way, I'm done with 2012 qualification. Updates are a little slow in coming.
I've noticed Goodwillie too. He will feature in my squads sometime soon. By the way, I'm done with 2012 qualification. Updates are a little slow in coming.
santiago_hortez
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An update after quite some time...
SCOTLAND SQUAD FOR CRUNCH GAMES ANNOUNCED
Scotland manager Kenny Dalglish has announced the Scotland Squad that is going to face Czech Republic and Spain in two of the games that are billed as the most crucial in the qualifying campaign for Scotland. The Highlanders need to win against one of these teams in both legs and no doubt, they will be looking for all three points against the two sides.
Goalkeepers: Scott Fox, Craig Gordon, Iain Turner
Defenders: Phil Bardsley, Christophe Berra, Steven Caldwell, Paul Hanlon, Alan Hutton, Charlie Mulgrew, Lee Wallace, Andy Webster
Midfielders: Charlie Adam (C), Craig Conway, Graham Dorrans, Darren Fletcher, James Forrest, Shaun Maloney, James McArthur, James McFadden, James Morrison, Kevin Thomson
Forwards: Kris Boyd, Steven Fletcher, Kenny Miller, Steven Naismith
Goalkeeper Scott Fox, and Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley could make their Scotland debuts in these matches along with Paul Hanlon. Darren Fletcher and James Forrest have minor fitness issues but Dalglish believes these should be sorted out before the games begin.
----------------------------------------
Match Preview
Czech Republic vs. Scotland
Analyst One: If ever there was a closer match to call, it was this. The match has everything at stake for both sides and both need a win here or else they will be faced with the daunting task of beating Spain at least once. Personally, I feel home advantage will give the Czech Republic the edge in this one.
Analyst Two: Couldn't agree with you more. A very close game indeed with the most likely result being a draw in my opinion.
Analyst Three: Evenly matched teams, a cracker of a stadium and fantastic atmosphere thanks to a capacity crowd. I don't think you can ask for more. Both sides will cancel each other out but I feel we will have a great game of football.
PREMATCH PREDICTIONS
One: Czech Republic to edge it 2-1
Two: A draw most probably 0-0
Three: 1-1 draw to me. And trust me, Milan Baros will get on the scoresheet.
--------------------------------------------
Line ups for the match
CZECH REPUBLIC
Jan Lastuvka
Jiri Kladrubsky-------Tomas Sivok------------Tomas Zapotocny---------Michal Kadlec
Tomas Rosicky---------Tomas Hubschmann-------Jan Polak---------Daniel Pudil
Tomas Necid-------------Milan Baros
SCOTLAND
Craig Gordon
Alan Hutton--------Andy Webster-----------Chrsitophe Berra--------Lee Wallace
Graham Dorrans--------James McArthur--------Kevin Thomson---------James McFadden
Charlie Adam
Kenny Miller
Surprise, surprise. Scotland have changed from their 4-1-2-1-2 to a new formation of 4-4-1-1 with Miller playing lone striker. I think Czech Republic look favourites for this one especially since the Scots have had Darren Fletcher ruled out of this game with fitness issues. Home advantage and their skill, which is equal to that of the Scots should secure them three points today. That said, a Czech Republic goal without Petr Cech looks vulnerable to me. I have my doubts as to whether the Dnipro keeper can match up to that level.
------------------------------
SCOTLAND EDGE OUT CZECH REPUBLIC AT PRAGUE
An ordinary display of attacking football from Czech Republic and fliud movement from the Scots on the counterattack both contributed to the solitary goal that led to Scotland picking up three valuable points from the G.Arena in Prague.
The match started off in controversy as Scotland striker Kenny Miller was brought down in the box by Tomas Sivok but the referee Ivan Bebek chose to play advantage and not award the Scots a deserved penalty. The Scots, determined than ever thanks to this injustice, fired on all cylinders and they looked more at home than the home side themselves for the first fifteen minutes.
It was only then that the Czechs got their act together and after Hubschmann cleared the ball, Rosicky picked it up in midfield and a superb counterattack from the Czech Republic midfield and attack saw them force two rapid saves off Craig Gordon. The match flowed from end to end and at the other side of the pitch, Graham Dorrans saw two of his shots blocked as did Charlie Adam. Kenny Miller came close to opening the scoring when his header from a James McFadden cross went narrowly over the bar.
It was only in the twenty third minute that Scotland finally found a breakthrough. Charlie Mulgrew's blistering run down the left flank left the Czech Republic defence eating dust and his lovely chip into the area was met on the half volley by Charlie Adam. Lastuvka saved it but the rebound fell to Kenny Miller who slammed it into the top corner.
The rest of the match saw some good action. Rosicky came close to equalising just before halftime but his shot flashed wide and Tomas Necid was also close with a long range effort tipped over the bar. Scotland too came close to doubling their lead with efforts from Kevin Thomson, Graham Dorrans and Kenny Miller but neither side found the net one more time.
CZECH REPUBLIC 0
SCOTLAND 1 (Miller)
=================
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction:
I think we were superb out there today. Sure, we did miss a few good chances but at the end of the day, we did end up with three points. Amazing performance. I'm looking forward to the Spain match now and I'm sure we can get a result against them too if we play like this.
------------------------------
Analyst One: Has to be one of the best games we saw. I predicted a Czech Republic win but Scotland deserved to win today.
Analyst Two: A good solid win for Scotland. Provides a platform for the game against Spain.
Analyst Three: Keep going this way laddies, and I swear we will see the blue shirts again in the Euros.
------------------------------------
-----------------------------------
SPAIN SQUAD ARRIVE IN GLASGOW; SCOTLAND FOLLOW THREE HOURS LATER
World champions and defending European champions Spain arrived for their biggest test so far in the European Qualfiers to be played at the Celtic Park in Glasgow against Scotland. Barcelona striker David Villa has told us that he is confident that Spain will get a result and they will return home with six points in two games.
Meanwhile, the Scottish team arrived from Prague three hours later and James McFadden told the reporters that Scotland had the ability to beat Spain provided they played their best football.
-----------------------------------------------
PRE-MATCH ANALYSIS
Analyst One: The Celtic Park is the venue for this cracker of a match between Scotland and Spain. Scotland have nine points from three games and Spain have six points but have a game in hand. I think Spain look favourites for this one by far, but one cannot rule out the Scots can we?
Analyst Two: Absolutely not. Scotland will give it one **** of a fight but Spain should come out on top, pretty comfortably.
Analyst Three: Spain to win this one. Sure, it is going to be a hostile crowd. Celtic Park is one of the most intimidating venues in Scotland but Spain have been through all that. They should win this one despite the fact that they're missing Villa and Torres through suspension.
PREMATCH PREDICTIONS
One: 3-1 to Spain.
Two: 2-1 to Spain
Three: 2-0 to Spain.
---------------------------------------
LINE UP FOR THE MATCH
SCOTLAND
Craig Gordon
Phil Bardsley----------Andy Webster-------Christophe Berra------------Charlie Mulgrew
James Morrison-----------James McArthur------------Graham Dorrans---------Shaun Maloney
Charlie Adam
Kenny Miller
SPAIN
Iker Casillas
Alvaro Arbeloa----------Gerard Pique-------------Raul Albiol---------Antonio Lopez
Javi Garcia--------Xabi Alonso
Cesc Fabregas
Pedro-------------------------------------------------------------------Andres Iniesta
Raul Gonzalez
================
Scotland have kept their formation of 4-4-1-1 with Miller playing as lone striker and Charlie Adam behind him. Darren Fletcher being ruled out could prove crucial. But on the other hand, with both David Villa and Fernando Torres out on suspension, the Spain attack looks a little weak with the aging Raul playing as lone striker. Vicente Del Bosque surprises me there by omitting Sergio Ramos and Carlos Puyol from the starting eleven along with key players like Xavi. I have a feeling this could turn out to be a mistake. Spain should take three points though, anyway.
====================
MILLER BRACE SILENCES SPAIN
Celtic Park hosted it's first international game in a very long time and the stadium didn't disappoint. The pitch was in great condition and the supporters filled the stadium up to the brim giving it the atmosphere of a noisy, bubbling cauldron. But it was action on the field that mattered and the Scottish side did not disappoint the thousands of fans cheering them.
In what could be counted as the biggest upset so far in the European qualifiers, Scotland beat Spain by two goals to one thanks to a Kenny Miller brace. This was the perfect example of the Dalglish effect, with Scotland beating Spain at their own game. Short, quick passing combined with fluid movement left Spain chasing shadows for the most part. Missing out on Torres and Villa also proved to be crucial as Raul, Pedro and to some extent, Iniesta failed to come up on the occasion.
After a few tentative shots at the Spanish goal, the Scots broke a Spanish attack in the seventh minute, when Phil Bardsley stole the ball from Xabi Alonso. The Sunderland defender, who was making his national team debut in this match then swung in a deep ball for Charlie Adam to give chase. Wrestling off a challenge from Pique, the Blackpool captain raced past the Barcelona defender and the switched sides when he realised he was being closed down. Kenny Miller was on hand to receive the ball and after deceiving Arbeloa with a fake pass to Graham Dorrans, he moved in on goal. Casillas came charging out but the resultant lob was too perfect for him to save. Celtic Park erupted as the ball rolled into the net.
Spain also did get opportunities. A brilliant one-two between Pedro and Javi Garcia saw the latter enter the penalty area but his shot went wide off the mark. The closest chance they had was when Fabregas hit the post from way out. But chances were few and far between as Spain failed to control the ball and with that, the possession.
The first half ended one-nil to the home side. Spain came back strongly in the second half and forced three brilliant full-stretch saves off Gordon within the first five minutes. Xabi Alonso also saw his shot cleared off the line by an alert Phil Bardsley. The Spaniards looked more dangerous as time passed on and it seemed only a matter of time before they scored. However, much to everyone's surprise, Scotland scored again in the fifty third minute when Danny Wilson, who had come on as a substitute for Charlie Mulgrew, took the ball from Pedro and then hoisted it forward for James Morrison to take. The West Brom midfielder then played a neat one-two with Graham Dorrans and then gave a through ball to Kenny Miller.
The Rangers striker then took the ball and after turning in past Pique near the area, sent a swerving shot beyond Casillas' reach into the top corner. Scotland two, Spain nil. After that, the Spaniards seemed to have lost momentum and Scotland restricted play to the midfield, not allowing the Spaniards to get forward much. However, one time they did get forward was when Fernando Llorente, Raul's substitute at halftime, went on a brilliant solo run and forced a block off Christophe Berra.
In the seventy second minute, Scotland gave away a freekick near the edge of the area and Spain gladly took their chance. Xabi Alonso's freekick deflected off Christophe Berra in the wall and was neatly headed home by Iniesta to give Spain their only consolation. Scotland were reduced to ten men for the last two minutes of injury time when debutant Phil Bardsley was sent off for repeated fouling.
But that made no difference as the Scots held on to record a memorable victory over Spain.
========================
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction:
We were phenomenal out there today. Miller was brilliant as was Craig (Gordon). This leaves us in first place with a lot of confidence and a big lead. We beat them at their own game and showed them that we must not be taken for granted.
Kenny Miller's Comments:
It felt weird. First thing, scoring two goals against a keeper like Casillas and then seeing Celtic Park erupt like that when a Rangers striker scored a goal. But I don't think it mattered. We're all Scotsmen today. Anyway, it is a great day for us and we're all very very happy. I am sure we will make it to the Euros easily now. We just need to win our next three games and we're through.
===========
Analyst One: That was mindblowing. Phenomenal. Scotland have pulled off their best win in their best fashion.
Analyst Two: Like Kenny Dalglish said, never take anyone for granted. This was the best we've seen in the Euro qualifiers so far.
Analyst Three: Absolute class is what we can describe Scotland as. They were damned good today. It looked like they never even missed Fletcher the whole evening.
===================
MATCH STATS
SCOTLAND SQUAD FOR CRUNCH GAMES ANNOUNCED
Scotland manager Kenny Dalglish has announced the Scotland Squad that is going to face Czech Republic and Spain in two of the games that are billed as the most crucial in the qualifying campaign for Scotland. The Highlanders need to win against one of these teams in both legs and no doubt, they will be looking for all three points against the two sides.
Goalkeepers: Scott Fox, Craig Gordon, Iain Turner
Defenders: Phil Bardsley, Christophe Berra, Steven Caldwell, Paul Hanlon, Alan Hutton, Charlie Mulgrew, Lee Wallace, Andy Webster
Midfielders: Charlie Adam (C), Craig Conway, Graham Dorrans, Darren Fletcher, James Forrest, Shaun Maloney, James McArthur, James McFadden, James Morrison, Kevin Thomson
Forwards: Kris Boyd, Steven Fletcher, Kenny Miller, Steven Naismith
Goalkeeper Scott Fox, and Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley could make their Scotland debuts in these matches along with Paul Hanlon. Darren Fletcher and James Forrest have minor fitness issues but Dalglish believes these should be sorted out before the games begin.
----------------------------------------
Match Preview
Czech Republic vs. Scotland
Analyst One: If ever there was a closer match to call, it was this. The match has everything at stake for both sides and both need a win here or else they will be faced with the daunting task of beating Spain at least once. Personally, I feel home advantage will give the Czech Republic the edge in this one.
Analyst Two: Couldn't agree with you more. A very close game indeed with the most likely result being a draw in my opinion.
Analyst Three: Evenly matched teams, a cracker of a stadium and fantastic atmosphere thanks to a capacity crowd. I don't think you can ask for more. Both sides will cancel each other out but I feel we will have a great game of football.
PREMATCH PREDICTIONS
One: Czech Republic to edge it 2-1
Two: A draw most probably 0-0
Three: 1-1 draw to me. And trust me, Milan Baros will get on the scoresheet.
--------------------------------------------
Line ups for the match
CZECH REPUBLIC
Jan Lastuvka
Jiri Kladrubsky-------Tomas Sivok------------Tomas Zapotocny---------Michal Kadlec
Tomas Rosicky---------Tomas Hubschmann-------Jan Polak---------Daniel Pudil
Tomas Necid-------------Milan Baros
SCOTLAND
Craig Gordon
Alan Hutton--------Andy Webster-----------Chrsitophe Berra--------Lee Wallace
Graham Dorrans--------James McArthur--------Kevin Thomson---------James McFadden
Charlie Adam
Kenny Miller
Surprise, surprise. Scotland have changed from their 4-1-2-1-2 to a new formation of 4-4-1-1 with Miller playing lone striker. I think Czech Republic look favourites for this one especially since the Scots have had Darren Fletcher ruled out of this game with fitness issues. Home advantage and their skill, which is equal to that of the Scots should secure them three points today. That said, a Czech Republic goal without Petr Cech looks vulnerable to me. I have my doubts as to whether the Dnipro keeper can match up to that level.
------------------------------
SCOTLAND EDGE OUT CZECH REPUBLIC AT PRAGUE
An ordinary display of attacking football from Czech Republic and fliud movement from the Scots on the counterattack both contributed to the solitary goal that led to Scotland picking up three valuable points from the G.Arena in Prague.
The match started off in controversy as Scotland striker Kenny Miller was brought down in the box by Tomas Sivok but the referee Ivan Bebek chose to play advantage and not award the Scots a deserved penalty. The Scots, determined than ever thanks to this injustice, fired on all cylinders and they looked more at home than the home side themselves for the first fifteen minutes.
It was only then that the Czechs got their act together and after Hubschmann cleared the ball, Rosicky picked it up in midfield and a superb counterattack from the Czech Republic midfield and attack saw them force two rapid saves off Craig Gordon. The match flowed from end to end and at the other side of the pitch, Graham Dorrans saw two of his shots blocked as did Charlie Adam. Kenny Miller came close to opening the scoring when his header from a James McFadden cross went narrowly over the bar.
It was only in the twenty third minute that Scotland finally found a breakthrough. Charlie Mulgrew's blistering run down the left flank left the Czech Republic defence eating dust and his lovely chip into the area was met on the half volley by Charlie Adam. Lastuvka saved it but the rebound fell to Kenny Miller who slammed it into the top corner.
The rest of the match saw some good action. Rosicky came close to equalising just before halftime but his shot flashed wide and Tomas Necid was also close with a long range effort tipped over the bar. Scotland too came close to doubling their lead with efforts from Kevin Thomson, Graham Dorrans and Kenny Miller but neither side found the net one more time.
CZECH REPUBLIC 0
SCOTLAND 1 (Miller)
=================
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction:
I think we were superb out there today. Sure, we did miss a few good chances but at the end of the day, we did end up with three points. Amazing performance. I'm looking forward to the Spain match now and I'm sure we can get a result against them too if we play like this.
------------------------------
Analyst One: Has to be one of the best games we saw. I predicted a Czech Republic win but Scotland deserved to win today.
Analyst Two: A good solid win for Scotland. Provides a platform for the game against Spain.
Analyst Three: Keep going this way laddies, and I swear we will see the blue shirts again in the Euros.
------------------------------------
-----------------------------------
SPAIN SQUAD ARRIVE IN GLASGOW; SCOTLAND FOLLOW THREE HOURS LATER
World champions and defending European champions Spain arrived for their biggest test so far in the European Qualfiers to be played at the Celtic Park in Glasgow against Scotland. Barcelona striker David Villa has told us that he is confident that Spain will get a result and they will return home with six points in two games.
Meanwhile, the Scottish team arrived from Prague three hours later and James McFadden told the reporters that Scotland had the ability to beat Spain provided they played their best football.
-----------------------------------------------
PRE-MATCH ANALYSIS
Analyst One: The Celtic Park is the venue for this cracker of a match between Scotland and Spain. Scotland have nine points from three games and Spain have six points but have a game in hand. I think Spain look favourites for this one by far, but one cannot rule out the Scots can we?
Analyst Two: Absolutely not. Scotland will give it one **** of a fight but Spain should come out on top, pretty comfortably.
Analyst Three: Spain to win this one. Sure, it is going to be a hostile crowd. Celtic Park is one of the most intimidating venues in Scotland but Spain have been through all that. They should win this one despite the fact that they're missing Villa and Torres through suspension.
PREMATCH PREDICTIONS
One: 3-1 to Spain.
Two: 2-1 to Spain
Three: 2-0 to Spain.
---------------------------------------
LINE UP FOR THE MATCH
SCOTLAND
Craig Gordon
Phil Bardsley----------Andy Webster-------Christophe Berra------------Charlie Mulgrew
James Morrison-----------James McArthur------------Graham Dorrans---------Shaun Maloney
Charlie Adam
Kenny Miller
SPAIN
Iker Casillas
Alvaro Arbeloa----------Gerard Pique-------------Raul Albiol---------Antonio Lopez
Javi Garcia--------Xabi Alonso
Cesc Fabregas
Pedro-------------------------------------------------------------------Andres Iniesta
Raul Gonzalez
================
Scotland have kept their formation of 4-4-1-1 with Miller playing as lone striker and Charlie Adam behind him. Darren Fletcher being ruled out could prove crucial. But on the other hand, with both David Villa and Fernando Torres out on suspension, the Spain attack looks a little weak with the aging Raul playing as lone striker. Vicente Del Bosque surprises me there by omitting Sergio Ramos and Carlos Puyol from the starting eleven along with key players like Xavi. I have a feeling this could turn out to be a mistake. Spain should take three points though, anyway.
====================
MILLER BRACE SILENCES SPAIN
Celtic Park hosted it's first international game in a very long time and the stadium didn't disappoint. The pitch was in great condition and the supporters filled the stadium up to the brim giving it the atmosphere of a noisy, bubbling cauldron. But it was action on the field that mattered and the Scottish side did not disappoint the thousands of fans cheering them.
In what could be counted as the biggest upset so far in the European qualifiers, Scotland beat Spain by two goals to one thanks to a Kenny Miller brace. This was the perfect example of the Dalglish effect, with Scotland beating Spain at their own game. Short, quick passing combined with fluid movement left Spain chasing shadows for the most part. Missing out on Torres and Villa also proved to be crucial as Raul, Pedro and to some extent, Iniesta failed to come up on the occasion.
After a few tentative shots at the Spanish goal, the Scots broke a Spanish attack in the seventh minute, when Phil Bardsley stole the ball from Xabi Alonso. The Sunderland defender, who was making his national team debut in this match then swung in a deep ball for Charlie Adam to give chase. Wrestling off a challenge from Pique, the Blackpool captain raced past the Barcelona defender and the switched sides when he realised he was being closed down. Kenny Miller was on hand to receive the ball and after deceiving Arbeloa with a fake pass to Graham Dorrans, he moved in on goal. Casillas came charging out but the resultant lob was too perfect for him to save. Celtic Park erupted as the ball rolled into the net.
Spain also did get opportunities. A brilliant one-two between Pedro and Javi Garcia saw the latter enter the penalty area but his shot went wide off the mark. The closest chance they had was when Fabregas hit the post from way out. But chances were few and far between as Spain failed to control the ball and with that, the possession.
The first half ended one-nil to the home side. Spain came back strongly in the second half and forced three brilliant full-stretch saves off Gordon within the first five minutes. Xabi Alonso also saw his shot cleared off the line by an alert Phil Bardsley. The Spaniards looked more dangerous as time passed on and it seemed only a matter of time before they scored. However, much to everyone's surprise, Scotland scored again in the fifty third minute when Danny Wilson, who had come on as a substitute for Charlie Mulgrew, took the ball from Pedro and then hoisted it forward for James Morrison to take. The West Brom midfielder then played a neat one-two with Graham Dorrans and then gave a through ball to Kenny Miller.
The Rangers striker then took the ball and after turning in past Pique near the area, sent a swerving shot beyond Casillas' reach into the top corner. Scotland two, Spain nil. After that, the Spaniards seemed to have lost momentum and Scotland restricted play to the midfield, not allowing the Spaniards to get forward much. However, one time they did get forward was when Fernando Llorente, Raul's substitute at halftime, went on a brilliant solo run and forced a block off Christophe Berra.
In the seventy second minute, Scotland gave away a freekick near the edge of the area and Spain gladly took their chance. Xabi Alonso's freekick deflected off Christophe Berra in the wall and was neatly headed home by Iniesta to give Spain their only consolation. Scotland were reduced to ten men for the last two minutes of injury time when debutant Phil Bardsley was sent off for repeated fouling.
But that made no difference as the Scots held on to record a memorable victory over Spain.
========================
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction:
We were phenomenal out there today. Miller was brilliant as was Craig (Gordon). This leaves us in first place with a lot of confidence and a big lead. We beat them at their own game and showed them that we must not be taken for granted.
Kenny Miller's Comments:
It felt weird. First thing, scoring two goals against a keeper like Casillas and then seeing Celtic Park erupt like that when a Rangers striker scored a goal. But I don't think it mattered. We're all Scotsmen today. Anyway, it is a great day for us and we're all very very happy. I am sure we will make it to the Euros easily now. We just need to win our next three games and we're through.
===========
Analyst One: That was mindblowing. Phenomenal. Scotland have pulled off their best win in their best fashion.
Analyst Two: Like Kenny Dalglish said, never take anyone for granted. This was the best we've seen in the Euro qualifiers so far.
Analyst Three: Absolute class is what we can describe Scotland as. They were damned good today. It looked like they never even missed Fletcher the whole evening.
===================
MATCH STATS
santiago_hortez
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ROY HODGSON SACKED AS LIVERPOOL MANAGER; DALGLISH RETURNS TO ANFIELD AS CARETAKER FOR 3 GAMES
The Liverpool FC board of directors have announced that manager Roy Hodgson has been sacked and have announced the appointment of Scotland manager Kenny Dalglish, who is also a legend at the club, as their new caretaker manager for three games.
Following a string of bad results, the 2-0 loss to Fulham leaving the Liverpool side in 10th place this season, proved to be the proverbial last straw in the camel's back and the Anfield directors wasted no time sacking Hodgson. For Dalglish, it will be a time to return to Anfield one more time and help improve the club's standings in the three games that he would be in charge of the club.
The Liverpool board have promised a great replacement for Hodgson within these three games. Dalglish's first game in charge will be against Newcastle United at St. James Park, before two games against Borussia Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park and Manchester United at Anfield take place.
---------------------------------------
The Liverpool FC board of directors have announced that manager Roy Hodgson has been sacked and have announced the appointment of Scotland manager Kenny Dalglish, who is also a legend at the club, as their new caretaker manager for three games.
Following a string of bad results, the 2-0 loss to Fulham leaving the Liverpool side in 10th place this season, proved to be the proverbial last straw in the camel's back and the Anfield directors wasted no time sacking Hodgson. For Dalglish, it will be a time to return to Anfield one more time and help improve the club's standings in the three games that he would be in charge of the club.
The Liverpool board have promised a great replacement for Hodgson within these three games. Dalglish's first game in charge will be against Newcastle United at St. James Park, before two games against Borussia Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park and Manchester United at Anfield take place.
---------------------------------------
santiago_hortez
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Thanks. I love your story. I've been following it since the beginning though I haven't commented on it. I have commented now though.
=======================
WHEN DALGLISH IS THERE, YOU KNOW YOU'RE GOING TO WIN: KENNY MILLER
Scotland striker Kenny Miller was the hero of the last week. With three goals in two games, including a brace against the mighty Spain, the Rangers striker is in some form. Our reporter managed to catch up with him as he left the Ibrox Stadium following a Rangers training session before their game on Saturday evening against St. Mirren.
Reporter: How does it feel after that win over Spain and Czech Republic, especially since you scored all the three goals for your country in those games?
Miller: It feels great. But more than personal joy, I think it is the fact that we have been able to pass our first test with flying colours as a team which makes me more happy.
Reporter: Your thoughts on Charlie Adam being appointed captain?
Miller: He deserved it. He's been in the side a long time, he's won the respect of both the players and the fans. He deserved every bit of the captaincy. I couldn't choose a better captain if you asked me to.
Reporter: What is the atmosphere like in the dressing room at the moment?
Miller: It's all filled with beer. No, we've bonded well as a unit and we feel we're working well together. Friendship, pranks, mischief are all key elements of our dressing room but when we need to do our duty, we do it with professionalism.
Reporter: How did you feel when Celtic Park was cheering you on, shouting your name out after you scored your first goal against Spain?
Miller: It felt weird initially because I'm not used to it happening at Celtic Park. I told Shaun (Maloney) as much and he was like "You aren't going to get this everyday, so you'd better record this event for your grandchildren."
Reporter: What infuence does Kenny Dalglish have on the team?
Miller: Trust me, when he's in the dressing room, he gives you that confidence. It is just immense and we go out into every game knowing we will win it. When Dalglish is there, you know you're going to win.
That was all we had time for because Kenny was whisked away by the security after that into the team bus, which escorted them back to the hotel for lunch.
WHEN DALGLISH IS THERE, YOU KNOW YOU'RE GOING TO WIN: KENNY MILLER
Scotland striker Kenny Miller was the hero of the last week. With three goals in two games, including a brace against the mighty Spain, the Rangers striker is in some form. Our reporter managed to catch up with him as he left the Ibrox Stadium following a Rangers training session before their game on Saturday evening against St. Mirren.
Reporter: How does it feel after that win over Spain and Czech Republic, especially since you scored all the three goals for your country in those games?
Miller: It feels great. But more than personal joy, I think it is the fact that we have been able to pass our first test with flying colours as a team which makes me more happy.
Reporter: Your thoughts on Charlie Adam being appointed captain?
Miller: He deserved it. He's been in the side a long time, he's won the respect of both the players and the fans. He deserved every bit of the captaincy. I couldn't choose a better captain if you asked me to.
Reporter: What is the atmosphere like in the dressing room at the moment?
Miller: It's all filled with beer. No, we've bonded well as a unit and we feel we're working well together. Friendship, pranks, mischief are all key elements of our dressing room but when we need to do our duty, we do it with professionalism.
Reporter: How did you feel when Celtic Park was cheering you on, shouting your name out after you scored your first goal against Spain?
Miller: It felt weird initially because I'm not used to it happening at Celtic Park. I told Shaun (Maloney) as much and he was like "You aren't going to get this everyday, so you'd better record this event for your grandchildren."
Reporter: What infuence does Kenny Dalglish have on the team?
Miller: Trust me, when he's in the dressing room, he gives you that confidence. It is just immense and we go out into every game knowing we will win it. When Dalglish is there, you know you're going to win.
That was all we had time for because Kenny was whisked away by the security after that into the team bus, which escorted them back to the hotel for lunch.
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LIVERPOOL GEAR UP FOR NEWCASTLE CHALLENGE
Liverpool have had one of their worst starts to the Premier League season under Roy Hodgson. Following last week's 2-0 defeat to Fulham at Anfield, the Reds lie in 10th place, seven points off leaders Chelsea. Their star striker Fernando Torres, midfielders Raul Meireles, Shinji Kagawa (a summer signing from Dortmund), Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt have failed to get going and the Reds seem to be rarely finding the net.
But with Kenny Dalglish's appointment as caretaker manager of the Reds, the new Liverpool side will be looking once more for the positive as they take on Newcastle United away from home.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have been doing amazingly in the league and sit in third place, two points off Chelsea and one behind Manchester United. But hot on their trail are Manchester City and Tottenham in fourth and fifth places. The game is set to be evenly poised and a draw seems the most likely result between the two.
--------------------------------------------
Kenny Dalglish's Pre-Match Comments
We have the ability to shine. We can do really well in this game provided we take our chances and restrict them. They've been doing well this season but I don't expect their honeymoon to last long.
==================
LINE UPS
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Steve Harper
Jose Enrique-----------Fabricio Coloccini-------------Kyle Walker-------------Dan Gosling
Wayne Routledge---------------Kevin Nolan-------------Cheick Tiote---------------Sergey Krivets
Andy Carroll--------------Leon Best
LIVERPOOL FC
Jose Manuel Reina
Martin Kelly-------------Ryan Shawcross-----------------Martin Skrtle-----------------Fabio Aurelio
Dirk Kuyt------------------Steven Gerrard---------------Raul Meireles--------------Mauricio Molina
Shinji Kagawa
Fernando Torres
LIVERPOOL WIN THRILLER AT ST. JAMES PARK
Gerrard Brace Helps Reds to 3-2 win against Newcastle
A brace from Steven Gerrard and an efficient performance from the Reds saw them overcome Newcastle United 3-2 at St. James Park giving them three valuable points at this stage in the season. The match began in controversy as both sides were denied penalty claims. Martin Skrtel was thought to have handled the ball and Jonas Gutierrez was thought to have brought down Fernando Torres. Tempers flared as Newcastle's loanee from Tottenham Kyle Walker got into a tussle with Raul Meireles and the referee had to stop play for a few minutes to prevent it from turning into an ugly incident. Both Walker and Meireles were yellow carded.
Newcastle were however, into the lead within seven minutes as Kevin Nolan's long range effort took a deflection on the way from Shinji Kagawa and landed into the back of the net past a hapless Reina. Andy Carroll put the home side 2-0 up in the twentieth minute when a defending howler from Daniel Agger while attempting a backpass was exploited by the powerful English striker, who had no trouble in finishing a one-on-one against Reina. With time running out in the first half, Mauricio Molina, a summer signing for the Reds, pulled one back when he headed in a Raul Meireles corner from close range.
The second half began slowly but picked up once Liverpool started to dominate possession and get their act right. In the sixty third minute they found their equaliser. Dirk Kuyt was brought down around thirty yards away from the goal. The resultant freekick was dispatched with consummate ease by England captain Steven Gerrard to send the travelling fans into a rapture. 2-2 and the match was in the balance again.
It took another moment of brilliance from Gerrard to settle the tie with his second goal in the 70th minute. After a brilliant one-two with Mario Gomez (who had come on for Fernando Torres in the 67th minute), the England captain dribbled past two defenders before scoring with a left footed shot down the ground that rolled past Steven Harper.
Three-Two to Liverpool and the score remained that way. Kenny Dalglish had the perfect start to his caretaker manager career at Liverpool.
NEWCASTLE UNITED 2 (Nolan 7' Carroll 20')
LIVERPOOL 3 (Molina 43' Gerrard 63' 70')
Man of the Match: Steven Gerrard
-----------------------
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction
We were simply brilliant there. The comeback was good as a whole and Stevie G was too good. A brilliant win. Hopefully we can continue to do this against Dortmund and United too.
--------------
---------------------
Liverpool have had one of their worst starts to the Premier League season under Roy Hodgson. Following last week's 2-0 defeat to Fulham at Anfield, the Reds lie in 10th place, seven points off leaders Chelsea. Their star striker Fernando Torres, midfielders Raul Meireles, Shinji Kagawa (a summer signing from Dortmund), Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt have failed to get going and the Reds seem to be rarely finding the net.
But with Kenny Dalglish's appointment as caretaker manager of the Reds, the new Liverpool side will be looking once more for the positive as they take on Newcastle United away from home.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have been doing amazingly in the league and sit in third place, two points off Chelsea and one behind Manchester United. But hot on their trail are Manchester City and Tottenham in fourth and fifth places. The game is set to be evenly poised and a draw seems the most likely result between the two.
--------------------------------------------
Kenny Dalglish's Pre-Match Comments
We have the ability to shine. We can do really well in this game provided we take our chances and restrict them. They've been doing well this season but I don't expect their honeymoon to last long.
==================
LINE UPS
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Steve Harper
Jose Enrique-----------Fabricio Coloccini-------------Kyle Walker-------------Dan Gosling
Wayne Routledge---------------Kevin Nolan-------------Cheick Tiote---------------Sergey Krivets
Andy Carroll--------------Leon Best
LIVERPOOL FC
Jose Manuel Reina
Martin Kelly-------------Ryan Shawcross-----------------Martin Skrtle-----------------Fabio Aurelio
Dirk Kuyt------------------Steven Gerrard---------------Raul Meireles--------------Mauricio Molina
Shinji Kagawa
Fernando Torres
LIVERPOOL WIN THRILLER AT ST. JAMES PARK
Gerrard Brace Helps Reds to 3-2 win against Newcastle
A brace from Steven Gerrard and an efficient performance from the Reds saw them overcome Newcastle United 3-2 at St. James Park giving them three valuable points at this stage in the season. The match began in controversy as both sides were denied penalty claims. Martin Skrtel was thought to have handled the ball and Jonas Gutierrez was thought to have brought down Fernando Torres. Tempers flared as Newcastle's loanee from Tottenham Kyle Walker got into a tussle with Raul Meireles and the referee had to stop play for a few minutes to prevent it from turning into an ugly incident. Both Walker and Meireles were yellow carded.
Newcastle were however, into the lead within seven minutes as Kevin Nolan's long range effort took a deflection on the way from Shinji Kagawa and landed into the back of the net past a hapless Reina. Andy Carroll put the home side 2-0 up in the twentieth minute when a defending howler from Daniel Agger while attempting a backpass was exploited by the powerful English striker, who had no trouble in finishing a one-on-one against Reina. With time running out in the first half, Mauricio Molina, a summer signing for the Reds, pulled one back when he headed in a Raul Meireles corner from close range.
The second half began slowly but picked up once Liverpool started to dominate possession and get their act right. In the sixty third minute they found their equaliser. Dirk Kuyt was brought down around thirty yards away from the goal. The resultant freekick was dispatched with consummate ease by England captain Steven Gerrard to send the travelling fans into a rapture. 2-2 and the match was in the balance again.
It took another moment of brilliance from Gerrard to settle the tie with his second goal in the 70th minute. After a brilliant one-two with Mario Gomez (who had come on for Fernando Torres in the 67th minute), the England captain dribbled past two defenders before scoring with a left footed shot down the ground that rolled past Steven Harper.
Three-Two to Liverpool and the score remained that way. Kenny Dalglish had the perfect start to his caretaker manager career at Liverpool.
NEWCASTLE UNITED 2 (Nolan 7' Carroll 20')
LIVERPOOL 3 (Molina 43' Gerrard 63' 70')
Man of the Match: Steven Gerrard
-----------------------
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction
We were simply brilliant there. The comeback was good as a whole and Stevie G was too good. A brilliant win. Hopefully we can continue to do this against Dortmund and United too.
--------------
---------------------
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JakeHartlepool10
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great story kiu
santiago_hortez
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DORTMUND ALL SET TO HOST LIVERPOOL
Liverpool midfielder Shinji Kagawa is all set to return to his former club's home ground, the intimidating Signal Iduna Park, formerly known as the Westfalenstadion after the club's home province Westphalia along with the rest of the Reds when they take on Borussia Dortmund in the group D game of the UEFA Europa League. The prematch predictions haven't been kind to the Reds with many pundits going for a Dortmund home win with a two goal margin.
Borussia Dortmund are in stunning form in the Bundesliga and they lie in second place just one point behind Bayer Leverkusen but with a game in hand following their handsome 3-0 win over Wolfsburg, the highlight of that match being Robert Lewandowski's hattrick.
The Reds meanwhile are doing badly in the Premier League and lie in eighth place, much below expectations following their 3-2 win over Newcastle on Sunday. However, one positive is that they have been doing well in the Europa League and along with Dortmund are unbeaten so far.
Fans of both sides are said to be nervous before this crucial clash which could effectively decide who finishes first and who finishes second in the group game.
============================
BORUSSIA DORTMUND
VS.
LIVERPOOL FC
Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund
==============
Kenny Dalglish's Pre-Match Comments
This is going to be a tight one. I don't expect Dortmund to go down without a fight but I think we will come out on top provided we play well.
============
Line Ups For the Match
Borussia Dortmund
Roman Weidenfeller
Lukasz Piszczek-----------------Neven Subotic--------------Felipe Santana-----------Marcel Schmelzer
Nuri Sahin-----------------------Sven Bender
Jakub Blaszczykowski------------------Tamas Hajnal-----------------------Kevin Grosskreutz
Lucas Barrios
Liverpool FC
Jose Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson----------------------Martin Skrtel-------------------Jamie Carragher------------------Danny Wilson
Christian Poulsen
Steven Gerrard------------------------Raul Meireles
Dirk Kuyt--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Shinji Kagawa
Mario Gomez
====================
GOMEZ, KAGAWA DO THE TRICK FOR REDS
Former Bayern Munich striker Mario Gomez and former Dortmund midfielder Shinji Kagawa both netted a goal each as Liverpool overcame Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in an even match at the Signal Iduna Park. It was yet another game in which the Reds had to come from behind following 3-2 comeback win over Newcastle on Sunday.
The German side took the lead in the 17th minute when Jakub Blaszczykowski's tentative cross was headed into the net by Lucas Barrios. The goal was especially bad for Liverpool because the three defenders who were near Barrios, that is Danny Wilson, Jamie Carragher, and Martin Skrtel, all failed to jump and try and head the weak cross clear much to Reina's anger.
However, Liverpool were level within two minutes when Dirk Kuyt's blistering run into the box was seen by Shinji Kagawa, who played an aerial ball to the former. The Dutch winger then rifled a volley, only to have it saved by Roman Weidenfeller. The rebound however, was pounced on by Mario Gomez before Schmelzer could clear his lines and the German international scored his second goal in four European matches.
The scores remained level at halftime and it was the English side who seemed more likely to break the deadlock. Gomez saw one more shot of his blocked by Weidenfeller and Gerrard saw two attempts of his go close. On the other end, Robert Lewandowski, who had been introduced for Barrios saw his shot cannon back off the bar.
It was only in the eighty second minute when Japanese international Shinji Kagawa seized on an error from Marcel Schmelzer and went on a run forward before a crashing drive found the net that Liverpool finally broke the deadlock. The score remained that way till the end and Liverpool won the match 2-1 though they could have won by more.
BORUSSIA DORTMUND 1 (Barrios 17')
LIVERPOOL FC 2 (Gomez 19' Kagawa 82')
Man of the Match: Shinji Kagawa (Liverpool FC)
====================
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction
Our finishing was poor, absolutely poor. We need to do much better there. And we should never have conceded that goal from Barrios. A win is a win and I will take it but this was not the performance I was looking for from my players. I expect more confidence in play from Liverpool and that is not what I had against Dortmund today.
============================
Liverpool midfielder Shinji Kagawa is all set to return to his former club's home ground, the intimidating Signal Iduna Park, formerly known as the Westfalenstadion after the club's home province Westphalia along with the rest of the Reds when they take on Borussia Dortmund in the group D game of the UEFA Europa League. The prematch predictions haven't been kind to the Reds with many pundits going for a Dortmund home win with a two goal margin.
Borussia Dortmund are in stunning form in the Bundesliga and they lie in second place just one point behind Bayer Leverkusen but with a game in hand following their handsome 3-0 win over Wolfsburg, the highlight of that match being Robert Lewandowski's hattrick.
The Reds meanwhile are doing badly in the Premier League and lie in eighth place, much below expectations following their 3-2 win over Newcastle on Sunday. However, one positive is that they have been doing well in the Europa League and along with Dortmund are unbeaten so far.
Fans of both sides are said to be nervous before this crucial clash which could effectively decide who finishes first and who finishes second in the group game.
============================
BORUSSIA DORTMUND
VS.
LIVERPOOL FC
Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund
==============
Kenny Dalglish's Pre-Match Comments
This is going to be a tight one. I don't expect Dortmund to go down without a fight but I think we will come out on top provided we play well.
============
Line Ups For the Match
Borussia Dortmund
Roman Weidenfeller
Lukasz Piszczek-----------------Neven Subotic--------------Felipe Santana-----------Marcel Schmelzer
Nuri Sahin-----------------------Sven Bender
Jakub Blaszczykowski------------------Tamas Hajnal-----------------------Kevin Grosskreutz
Lucas Barrios
Liverpool FC
Jose Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson----------------------Martin Skrtel-------------------Jamie Carragher------------------Danny Wilson
Christian Poulsen
Steven Gerrard------------------------Raul Meireles
Dirk Kuyt--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Shinji Kagawa
Mario Gomez
====================
GOMEZ, KAGAWA DO THE TRICK FOR REDS
Former Bayern Munich striker Mario Gomez and former Dortmund midfielder Shinji Kagawa both netted a goal each as Liverpool overcame Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in an even match at the Signal Iduna Park. It was yet another game in which the Reds had to come from behind following 3-2 comeback win over Newcastle on Sunday.
The German side took the lead in the 17th minute when Jakub Blaszczykowski's tentative cross was headed into the net by Lucas Barrios. The goal was especially bad for Liverpool because the three defenders who were near Barrios, that is Danny Wilson, Jamie Carragher, and Martin Skrtel, all failed to jump and try and head the weak cross clear much to Reina's anger.
However, Liverpool were level within two minutes when Dirk Kuyt's blistering run into the box was seen by Shinji Kagawa, who played an aerial ball to the former. The Dutch winger then rifled a volley, only to have it saved by Roman Weidenfeller. The rebound however, was pounced on by Mario Gomez before Schmelzer could clear his lines and the German international scored his second goal in four European matches.
The scores remained level at halftime and it was the English side who seemed more likely to break the deadlock. Gomez saw one more shot of his blocked by Weidenfeller and Gerrard saw two attempts of his go close. On the other end, Robert Lewandowski, who had been introduced for Barrios saw his shot cannon back off the bar.
It was only in the eighty second minute when Japanese international Shinji Kagawa seized on an error from Marcel Schmelzer and went on a run forward before a crashing drive found the net that Liverpool finally broke the deadlock. The score remained that way till the end and Liverpool won the match 2-1 though they could have won by more.
BORUSSIA DORTMUND 1 (Barrios 17')
LIVERPOOL FC 2 (Gomez 19' Kagawa 82')
Man of the Match: Shinji Kagawa (Liverpool FC)
====================
Kenny Dalglish's Reaction
Our finishing was poor, absolutely poor. We need to do much better there. And we should never have conceded that goal from Barrios. A win is a win and I will take it but this was not the performance I was looking for from my players. I expect more confidence in play from Liverpool and that is not what I had against Dortmund today.
============================
Footy4Life89
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Just caught up with the story again i absolutely love this best story going i have been banned for a week for abusing staff XD
Footy4Life89
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will there be a new update soon or is this closed for your Cardiff story