NB This is a fuller version of the piece published in the Guardian on 7th April, with added information A myriad of myths that swirl throughout football, some of which hold credence, such as ‘The Law of the Ex’ that dictates more often than not that strikers will score against their former clubs. Another ofContinue reading “Is the Premier League Manager of the Month cursed?”
Category Archives: Jurgen Klopp
We Need to Talk About Kevin (Friend and his friends)
There are few things more tiresome than supporters complaining about refereeing decisions and the injustices suffered by their own club. Consequently I hesitated in joining the clamour surrounding Kevin Friend and his VAR wingman Craig Pawson for a series of contentious decisions during Palace’s game with Liverpool on Sunday. However, emboldened by the almost unanimousContinue reading “We Need to Talk About Kevin (Friend and his friends)”
Burnley – the clean Clarets reach 100 Premier League matches without a red card
Photo by Nathan Rogers on Unsplash Burnley fans will not have been exactly cock-a-hoop after they were held to a goalless draw against bottom-of-the-table, the previously porous and pointless Norwich City. But there was a small milestone for them to celebrate at Turf Moor. Burnley completed their 100th consecutive Premier League match without a red card. For aContinue reading “Burnley – the clean Clarets reach 100 Premier League matches without a red card”
The 2020/21 season and the concertina effect
This is my thirtieth weekly blog post I know, how time flies. Having started back in August we are now entering the final straight so it feels as good a time as any to reflect on what has happened over the last seven months. The 2020/21 season did not begin in August as is theContinue reading “The 2020/21 season and the concertina effect”
A tale of two owners and their under-performing managers.
While not exactly being two peas in a pod, Mike Ashley and Roman Abramovich do share a trait besides being very wealthy owners of football clubs. Both are extremely reticent when dealing with the media; curt would be a polite way of describing their attitude. And as Newcastle and Chelsea have been struggling recently, inevitablyContinue reading “A tale of two owners and their under-performing managers.”
The Kids are Alright
The FA Cup third round is often portrayed as the most exciting weekend of the football calendar. It’s when David gets to meet Goliath as the Premier League clubs join the fray and non-league clubs have the chance of playing against the elite. This year’s competition threw up a few such contests with the mostContinue reading “The Kids are Alright”
Is Allardyce’s return a step towards normality?
There is something faintly reassuring about Sam Allardyce being appointed to rescue a club that looks destined for the drop. It has happened a few times before and no doubt will happen again. In this season of all seasons perhaps this is what we all need, some familiarity, a return to what we perceive ofContinue reading “Is Allardyce’s return a step towards normality?”
The Football Mine 