Post by Kieran on Jun 17, 2013 2:00:12 GMT
Hello, welcome to the 00s World Football Draft Game. Basically, 16 players have spent the last few weeks picking players to make a team (you can see how they did it in this thread pldraftgame.freeforums.net/thread/26/world-football-draft-game-round ) and they are now ready to go head-to-head against each other to win your vote - which do you think is the better team? The voter has both the squad-sheet and the bios/tactics to consider!
The key rule for this edition of the game is that players are to be judged on the basis of their performances in the 2000s - so what they did pre 2000 is not directly relevant here.
Additionally, voters are requested to please justify the votes you cast: an explanation of why you voted for the team you did would be much appreciated and would add to the game as a whole. If you vote but don't justify your selection, then that vote may be discarded when totting up the final results. Please vote and adhere to the rules on each match thread.
Chillada- Formation/bio/tactics
Squeakybumtime- Formation/bio/tactics
The key rule for this edition of the game is that players are to be judged on the basis of their performances in the 2000s - so what they did pre 2000 is not directly relevant here.
Additionally, voters are requested to please justify the votes you cast: an explanation of why you voted for the team you did would be much appreciated and would add to the game as a whole. If you vote but don't justify your selection, then that vote may be discarded when totting up the final results. Please vote and adhere to the rules on each match thread.
Chillada- Formation/bio/tactics
1. Petr Cech
Playing Style
Cech is a world class goalkeeper, big, reliable, great reflexes and agility, with superb distribution.
Summary
Cech is a World Beating goalkeeper, showing time and time again why he is rated so highly by everyone. He was the key to Chelsea winning the Champions League with his performances vs. Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Cech saved Chelsea time and time again from defeat. He was named fan’s player of the match for the Champions League final. Neuer on the other hand was flappable and had another game to forget. There are only a few goalkeepers that can make big-time saves. There are even fewer that can save penalties. Then there are even fewer that are clutch enough to save their team on the brink of history.
He holds a Czech professional league record of not conceding a goal in 903 competitive minutes. In addition, he has a club record at his former club Sparta Prague, having gone 928 minutes unbeaten in all competitions in 2001-02. During the 2004–05 season, Cech went 1,025 minutes without conceding a goal – a Premier League record at the time. Cech also won the Golden Glove in both the 2004–05 and 2009–10 seasons. As of 5 May 2013, Cech has kept 142 clean sheets for Chelsea in the Premier League.
He was voted into the all-star team of Euro 2004 after helping his country reach the semi-finals. Cech also received the individual award of Best Goalkeeper in the 2004–05, 2006–07 and 2007–08 seasons of the UEFA Champions League. In addition, he was named in the FIFPro and UEFA Champions League teams of the season in 2006. Cech holds the record for fewest Premier League appearances required to reach 100 clean sheets. Seriously he has won so many awards just check it out, its mind blowing.
2. Paulo Ferreira
Playing style
Ferreira is an intelligent, reliable right-back, known more for his defensive qualities rather than attacking. A superb man marker, Ferreira has marked some of the world’s best players completely out of important football matches. He is known for his versatility and ability to play right, left and central defence to a high standard.
Summary
Paulo is a quiet, often forgotten hero who is a proper, loyal, club servant and professional. He was signed by Jose Mourinho for £13.2 million, a then British record fee for a right back. He was the most sought after right back in the world after Paulo had been part of Mourinho’s all-conquering Porto side. He instantly became an integral part of a record breaking defence in the season that brought Chelsea its first league title for 50 years. He always went about his job efficiently and intelligently for Chelsea always giving 100% and a good performance. The perfect example of this came in the 2007 FA Cup final against Man Utd. Man Utd were seen as favourites for that and there were concerns that Ronaldo may cause Chelsea problems, and Paulo was the man tasked with stopping him. Everyone need not have worried as Paulo in his own understated way did his job and kept Ronaldo in his pocket for the entire 120 mins. No fuss, no histrionics, just good old fashioned experience and professionalism. I think it may have helped that Ferreira knows Cristiano Ronaldo’s game inside out and knows how to stop him.
Internationally, Ferreira represented Portugal 61 times and played in four major tournaments. He was named in the UEFA team of the year 2002-03 and the ESM Team of the Year 2003-04.
Reliable was the most popular term used to describe Paulo throughout his career, even now at 33 years old you can always rely on Paulo to step in to the team. He will go down as a legend when the curtains finally close on his time with Chelsea, but not your typical John Terry legend, a different kind of legend, one that would play in any game, anytime, under any kind of pressure, and put in a decent performance in whatever position you ask him to play.
3. Bixente Lizarazu
Playing Style
Lizarazu was an incredibly calm and consistent left back with a great defensive awareness. He was reliable and experienced in big matches, with pace and aggression aiding his attacking prowess.
Summary
Lizarazu is widely renowned as one of the best full-backs of recent times helping him to become the most decorated player in French football history. He was part of the “Golden Era” of French Football and a fan’s favourite at Bayern Munich. At club level he has won two French league titles, six German league titles, five German Cups, four German League Cups and a Champions League, while at international level he helped France to success in the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. Lizarazu is remembered for his superior defending and ability to get up and down the flanks to create opportunities for his teammates.
In all, he made 97 appearances for France. After winning the Intercontinental Cup in late 2001 with Bayern, Lizarazu became the first player to be European Champion and World Champion on both club-level (with Bayern) and national level (with France). He was instrumental in changing Bayern's traditional Libero system to a modern four at the back bringing huge success. His arrival from Athletic Bilbao coincided with Bayern's re-emergence on the European scene. In 2001 he was selected as UEFA’s best left back in world football.
4. Pepe
Playing Style
One of the fastest centre backs in recent times, Pepe is dominant in the air and practically unbeatable in one-on-one situations. His uber-aggressive style of defending and playing often gets him roughed up and hurt, but usually you’d want a bruiser in your back four and Pepe fits and plays the role in excellent fashion. He leaves it all out there, and he’ll make you spit blood, literally, to get one on him
Summary
OK let’s avoid all opinions on Pepe as a person, as this draft is purely based on football. Many people think that just because he doesn't always play nicely with the other kids, that he is therefore not a good defender. Let’s not forget during Real Madrid’s La Liga triumph of 2012, Pepe was the babysitter of the defence, namely, Alvaro Arbeloa and Sergio Ramos. Real Madrid barely kept a clean sheet without him. I don’t condone Pepe’s actions, but I will stand by his strategy of being that guy; the one that you don’t mess with. For any opposing team, he’s a dangerous distraction and that’s invaluable
Pepe is undoubtedly a polarizing defender amongst fans due to his antics such as diving and unsportsmanlike conduct. If Pepe was not an excellent player, this would not be tolerated. He is however an exceptional tackler, plays well in the air and is extremely confident with the ball at his feet. During his 2 and a half years at Porto, Pepe won 6 trophies as well as many personal accolades. His brilliant performances in central defence helped drive Porto to two league championships and also caught the eyes of scouts from Real Madrid. So impressed were they with Pepe that Madrid shelled out a whopping €30 million for the defender in 2007, a fee he began to almost immediately repay when he helped Real to the Spanish league title in 2008. During his time at Real Madrid Pepe has played over 138 games with a terrific clean sheet ratio. He has predominantly played in central defence although has played Defensive Midfield with great effect too. He has already won 5 trophies with Real, and more are sure to follow.
Pepe is a key member of the Portuguese National Team and has amassed 51 appearances so far. He was selected in the team of the tournament for Euro 2008 and Euro 2012. Pepe was also voted the best defender at Euro 2012. Pepe is an old-school defender with new-school traits. His size and strength, combined with good athleticism and ability to play as a sweeper sometimes, makes him a great player.
5. John Terry
Playing Style
John Terry is a brave, intelligent footballer who plays every game with passion and possesses strong leadership qualities. Terry’s an all-action defender, characterised by aggression, last-ditch clearances and tackles and ruthless determination. He is also a decent passer of the ball, a natural leader, and a consistent goal scorer.
Summary
I hate him. I wouldn’t want him to be my friend. I wouldn’t want him near my friends. Despite this there is no doubt he’s a quality defender for club and country. There is something so quintessentially English about him: from his name to his playing style and his attitude - for better or worse - it's all a fit for the armband. He’s probably the most influential defensive captain in Europe, maybe even the world. He is extremely passionate about football, his country and the game as a whole. He has had his off field criticisms but they’re irrelevant, all I can say is that Terry has without doubt been one of our Country’s greatest centre backs, and it’s the experience he brings to the table which will make any squad add him into their starting eleven.
Terry is Chelsea's most successful captain, having led them to three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups and a UEFA Champions League since 2004. He is one of five players to have made over 500 appearances for Chelsea and is also the club's all-time highest scoring defender. In 2007, he became the first captain to lift the FA Cup at the new Wembley Stadium and also the first player to score an international goal there. In a time when players fake injuries, fall down easily to win penalties and free kicks, a person with Terry’s commitment is a rare breed. Broken ribs or chronic knee injury which requires regular pain killer, nothing is big enough to stop him. Even after being knocked out on the pitch, Terry came back okay without much fuss.
His personal honours are too vast to list entirely. Terry was named UEFA Club Defender of the Year in 2005, 2008 and 2009 and PFA Players' Player of the Year in 2005. He is the only player to be included in the FIFPro World XI for five consecutive seasons (2005-2009). During this time Terry was widely renowned as the best centre back in world football. He was also named in the all-star squad for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, the only English player to make the team.
6. Phillip Cocu
Playing Style
Cocu was one of a kind, being able to play at the highest level across defence or midfield. He is most remembered playing a defensive midfield role or playmaker dictating his team's play. He was best known for his tackling, vision, intelligence, and great teamwork.
Summary
Cocu played for Barcelona from 1998–2004 becoming their most capped foreigner of all time with 292 appearances (now this honour belongs to Messi). Cocu was not an outspoken player keeping away from media attention, however became a fan’s favourite and a trusted lieutenant on Barca’s midfield for years. He eventually left Spain to join his former club PSV despite being offered a new contract from Barcelona. Cocu captained the team to three championships in just three years, and guided them to the Champions League semi-final in 2004/05.
Cocu played over 100 games for Netherlands, many as captain. He captained the team in Euro 2000, Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006. He was voted FIFAWorldCup.com unsung Footballer for his club and country performances. Cocu was a vastly underrated player happy for glamorous players to steal the limelight. Extremely smart in his position play and vitally the team always comes first. Cocu is regarded as one of the greatest Dutch midfielders of all time, let alone since 2000.
7. Gaizka Mendieta
Playing Style
Mendieta was a versatile midfield general with good tackling skills and creativity. He played mainly central or right midfield for successful clubs and country. He scored and assisted many memorable goals in some of the biggest competitions in World Football. As his career progressed, he showed he could also play a deeper more defensive role, with his abilities shown whilst sometimes playing a right wing-back role for Barcelona.
Summary
From 2000-2002 Mendieta was deemed the best central midfielder in Europe and was voted the UEFA best midfielder for 2000 and 2001. He almost singlehandedly took an ordinary Valencia team to 2 consecutive finals losing the second on penalties despite scoring 2 himself. Mendieta’s scoring record was sublime for a midfielder who could tackle very well, and he was one of the most sought after players in the world. Mendieta became a clear, crucial cog for the national team too, he was key to helping the side reach the last 8 at Euro 2000 and the 2002 World Cup.
Mendieta became at the time the sixth most expensive player of all time when he joined Lazio for €48 million despite an accepted offer from Real Madrid, a testament to his abilities. His Lazio career was unfortunately blighted with injury and conflict with the manager, leading him to move on loan to Spanish giants Barcelona. He was a shining light in an aging Barcelona team and played 47 games over the 2002/03 season. Despite Barcelona keen to land Mendieta on a permanent deal, his desire to play in England led to a move to Middlesborough. The impact he had at Middlesborough was instant and astonishing. He helped bring the Teesside club its first ever silverware winning the League Cup in his first season and scored 2 goals in a Premier League win over Man Utd. The next season he was pivotal to helping the club to the UEFA Cup Final for the first time.
8. Michael Ballack
Playing Style
A player who possesses superb vision, awareness, positioning and leadership as well as a physique, he belied his natural position as a complete midfielder. His technical qualities and a fearsome right foot – as his 42 international goals (98 caps) would attest – make him the prototype for the modern day player.
Summary
Ballack was selected by Pelé as one of FIFA's 125 Greatest Living Players, and as the UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year in 2002. He has won the German Footballer of the Year award three times – in 2002, 2003 and 2005. In his prime he was undoubtedly one of the greatest centre-midfielders. Heck, even players, of the noughties. I have always seen key similarities between Ballack and Gerrard, and until today they are the only 2 players in their position that I’ve seen who can take the game by the scruff of the neck and drive the team forward in such a way. Ballack was at his best before Chelsea, however even at Stamford Bridge in a deeper role he became a key and reliable player.
The three-time German Footballer of the Year has been a commanding presence in the midfield for some of the world's top clubs. His goals, be it free-kicks, penalties or from open play, were decisive in unfancied Germany finishing runners up in the 2002 and 2006 World Cup, as well as runners up in the European Championships of 2008. If Michael Ballack isn't the greatest German footballer of all time, well then he's pretty damn close.
9. Raul
Playing Style
Raul is a natural goal scorer with an undying enthusiasm to win. He’s a complete forward who is capable with both feet, his head and pretty much any part of his body. He’s quick, clever, creative, a potent poacher in front of goal. His records will never be beaten.
Summary
I had a man crush on Raul, well for a certain period. The guy was much more than a football player, captain or symbol; he was someone who made you love the game, love Spanish football more and more. Raul González Blanco has a couple of decent tags to his name: All-time top scorer in the Champions league, all-time top scorer at Real Madrid (323 goals), third top goal scorer in La Liga (228 goals) and second top scorer of the Spanish national side (44 goals). He’s quite simply one of the best, if not the best striker in past decade; arguably in the history of football. Raul's intelligence sees him get away from his marker and create space well. His finishing touch in the box is second to none.
In 2003 Sir Alex Ferguson, Figo, Zidane and more all said Raul was the best player in the world. He was nicknamed 'the Lord of the Rings', because he always kissed his wedding ring after he scores. Raul is a master goal scorer on any stage. In European competitions, he is the all-time leading scorer of UEFA tournaments. He is the only player that has been awarded three times the "Best Forward of the Year" by UEFA (2000, 2001 and 2002)
It’s testament to Raul’s abilities that while Real Madrid have been the richest club in the world and could sign any player in the world, he was a constant fixture at the top of their team sheet. He doesn't play for himself and personal awards he plays for the team. This is one of the main reasons why Real Madrid were so successful in the early noughties. Raul was the maverick of the most successful club of his generation.
Over the course of his 16 year Real Madrid career, Raul went on to win almost everything bar the Nobel Peace Prize. Take a look in his trophy cabinet and you will see six La Liga titles, three Champions League winners’ medals and four Spanish Super Cups. He has captained club and country. Raul has scored in two Champions League finals and has never once been issued a red card; a predator in front of goal he may be, but a fair and respectful one at that.
10. Ronaldinho
Playing Style
Unplayable from 2002-2008.
Summary
Ronaldinho made the best defenders in the world look awful, on a consistent basis. He turned Real Madrid into a laughing stock, and owned every team in the Champions League time and time again. Fast, skilful, strong and creative, he was one of a kind that was always a big game.
His main playing position is as an attacking midfielder or forward. He won the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 2004 and 2005 and is widely regarded to be one of the best footballers of his generation. He won his first Champions League in 2006 and the Ballon d'Or in 2005. He was also named in the FIFA 100, a list of the greatest footballers compiled by fellow countryman Pelé, and in the FIFPro World XI consecutively from 2004–2007.
11. Pavel Nedved
Playing Style
Nedved is a creative genius on the ball and has vision that other players can only dream of. He is an all-round superstar and there is nothing he can’t do. He was the lynchpin in a successful Juventus team, and the star of an over-achieving Czech Republic national team.
Summary
He was, without doubt, one of the greatest and most creative midfielders of his generation. My deepest regret is that we never got to see this great player grace the Premier League. Nedved is, in my mind, one of the most innovative midfielders of all time. His sheer ability, both in scoring and creating goals, dazzled Serie A for a number of years, leading to a host of titles and deserved awards for the great Czech.
Winning the Ballon d'Or as the European Footballer of the Year in 2003, Nedved became only the second Czech player to receive this honour, and the first since the breakup of Czechoslovakia. He was also the recipient of the second Golden Foot award in 2004. Throughout his career, Nedved won numerous awards, including being named Czech Footballer of the Year four times and receiving the Golden Ball (Czech Republic) six times. Well known for his energy and tireless runs, refined dribbling, as well as his powerful shooting and goal scoring abilities.
Key to his success was his ability to astound opponents with his incredible touch and foresight. His play was almost like a sixth sense, and his goal scoring and assist records throughout his career speaks for itself.
Playing Style
Cech is a world class goalkeeper, big, reliable, great reflexes and agility, with superb distribution.
Summary
Cech is a World Beating goalkeeper, showing time and time again why he is rated so highly by everyone. He was the key to Chelsea winning the Champions League with his performances vs. Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Cech saved Chelsea time and time again from defeat. He was named fan’s player of the match for the Champions League final. Neuer on the other hand was flappable and had another game to forget. There are only a few goalkeepers that can make big-time saves. There are even fewer that can save penalties. Then there are even fewer that are clutch enough to save their team on the brink of history.
He holds a Czech professional league record of not conceding a goal in 903 competitive minutes. In addition, he has a club record at his former club Sparta Prague, having gone 928 minutes unbeaten in all competitions in 2001-02. During the 2004–05 season, Cech went 1,025 minutes without conceding a goal – a Premier League record at the time. Cech also won the Golden Glove in both the 2004–05 and 2009–10 seasons. As of 5 May 2013, Cech has kept 142 clean sheets for Chelsea in the Premier League.
He was voted into the all-star team of Euro 2004 after helping his country reach the semi-finals. Cech also received the individual award of Best Goalkeeper in the 2004–05, 2006–07 and 2007–08 seasons of the UEFA Champions League. In addition, he was named in the FIFPro and UEFA Champions League teams of the season in 2006. Cech holds the record for fewest Premier League appearances required to reach 100 clean sheets. Seriously he has won so many awards just check it out, its mind blowing.
2. Paulo Ferreira
Playing style
Ferreira is an intelligent, reliable right-back, known more for his defensive qualities rather than attacking. A superb man marker, Ferreira has marked some of the world’s best players completely out of important football matches. He is known for his versatility and ability to play right, left and central defence to a high standard.
Summary
Paulo is a quiet, often forgotten hero who is a proper, loyal, club servant and professional. He was signed by Jose Mourinho for £13.2 million, a then British record fee for a right back. He was the most sought after right back in the world after Paulo had been part of Mourinho’s all-conquering Porto side. He instantly became an integral part of a record breaking defence in the season that brought Chelsea its first league title for 50 years. He always went about his job efficiently and intelligently for Chelsea always giving 100% and a good performance. The perfect example of this came in the 2007 FA Cup final against Man Utd. Man Utd were seen as favourites for that and there were concerns that Ronaldo may cause Chelsea problems, and Paulo was the man tasked with stopping him. Everyone need not have worried as Paulo in his own understated way did his job and kept Ronaldo in his pocket for the entire 120 mins. No fuss, no histrionics, just good old fashioned experience and professionalism. I think it may have helped that Ferreira knows Cristiano Ronaldo’s game inside out and knows how to stop him.
Internationally, Ferreira represented Portugal 61 times and played in four major tournaments. He was named in the UEFA team of the year 2002-03 and the ESM Team of the Year 2003-04.
Reliable was the most popular term used to describe Paulo throughout his career, even now at 33 years old you can always rely on Paulo to step in to the team. He will go down as a legend when the curtains finally close on his time with Chelsea, but not your typical John Terry legend, a different kind of legend, one that would play in any game, anytime, under any kind of pressure, and put in a decent performance in whatever position you ask him to play.
3. Bixente Lizarazu
Playing Style
Lizarazu was an incredibly calm and consistent left back with a great defensive awareness. He was reliable and experienced in big matches, with pace and aggression aiding his attacking prowess.
Summary
Lizarazu is widely renowned as one of the best full-backs of recent times helping him to become the most decorated player in French football history. He was part of the “Golden Era” of French Football and a fan’s favourite at Bayern Munich. At club level he has won two French league titles, six German league titles, five German Cups, four German League Cups and a Champions League, while at international level he helped France to success in the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. Lizarazu is remembered for his superior defending and ability to get up and down the flanks to create opportunities for his teammates.
In all, he made 97 appearances for France. After winning the Intercontinental Cup in late 2001 with Bayern, Lizarazu became the first player to be European Champion and World Champion on both club-level (with Bayern) and national level (with France). He was instrumental in changing Bayern's traditional Libero system to a modern four at the back bringing huge success. His arrival from Athletic Bilbao coincided with Bayern's re-emergence on the European scene. In 2001 he was selected as UEFA’s best left back in world football.
4. Pepe
Playing Style
One of the fastest centre backs in recent times, Pepe is dominant in the air and practically unbeatable in one-on-one situations. His uber-aggressive style of defending and playing often gets him roughed up and hurt, but usually you’d want a bruiser in your back four and Pepe fits and plays the role in excellent fashion. He leaves it all out there, and he’ll make you spit blood, literally, to get one on him
Summary
OK let’s avoid all opinions on Pepe as a person, as this draft is purely based on football. Many people think that just because he doesn't always play nicely with the other kids, that he is therefore not a good defender. Let’s not forget during Real Madrid’s La Liga triumph of 2012, Pepe was the babysitter of the defence, namely, Alvaro Arbeloa and Sergio Ramos. Real Madrid barely kept a clean sheet without him. I don’t condone Pepe’s actions, but I will stand by his strategy of being that guy; the one that you don’t mess with. For any opposing team, he’s a dangerous distraction and that’s invaluable
Pepe is undoubtedly a polarizing defender amongst fans due to his antics such as diving and unsportsmanlike conduct. If Pepe was not an excellent player, this would not be tolerated. He is however an exceptional tackler, plays well in the air and is extremely confident with the ball at his feet. During his 2 and a half years at Porto, Pepe won 6 trophies as well as many personal accolades. His brilliant performances in central defence helped drive Porto to two league championships and also caught the eyes of scouts from Real Madrid. So impressed were they with Pepe that Madrid shelled out a whopping €30 million for the defender in 2007, a fee he began to almost immediately repay when he helped Real to the Spanish league title in 2008. During his time at Real Madrid Pepe has played over 138 games with a terrific clean sheet ratio. He has predominantly played in central defence although has played Defensive Midfield with great effect too. He has already won 5 trophies with Real, and more are sure to follow.
Pepe is a key member of the Portuguese National Team and has amassed 51 appearances so far. He was selected in the team of the tournament for Euro 2008 and Euro 2012. Pepe was also voted the best defender at Euro 2012. Pepe is an old-school defender with new-school traits. His size and strength, combined with good athleticism and ability to play as a sweeper sometimes, makes him a great player.
5. John Terry
Playing Style
John Terry is a brave, intelligent footballer who plays every game with passion and possesses strong leadership qualities. Terry’s an all-action defender, characterised by aggression, last-ditch clearances and tackles and ruthless determination. He is also a decent passer of the ball, a natural leader, and a consistent goal scorer.
Summary
I hate him. I wouldn’t want him to be my friend. I wouldn’t want him near my friends. Despite this there is no doubt he’s a quality defender for club and country. There is something so quintessentially English about him: from his name to his playing style and his attitude - for better or worse - it's all a fit for the armband. He’s probably the most influential defensive captain in Europe, maybe even the world. He is extremely passionate about football, his country and the game as a whole. He has had his off field criticisms but they’re irrelevant, all I can say is that Terry has without doubt been one of our Country’s greatest centre backs, and it’s the experience he brings to the table which will make any squad add him into their starting eleven.
Terry is Chelsea's most successful captain, having led them to three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups and a UEFA Champions League since 2004. He is one of five players to have made over 500 appearances for Chelsea and is also the club's all-time highest scoring defender. In 2007, he became the first captain to lift the FA Cup at the new Wembley Stadium and also the first player to score an international goal there. In a time when players fake injuries, fall down easily to win penalties and free kicks, a person with Terry’s commitment is a rare breed. Broken ribs or chronic knee injury which requires regular pain killer, nothing is big enough to stop him. Even after being knocked out on the pitch, Terry came back okay without much fuss.
His personal honours are too vast to list entirely. Terry was named UEFA Club Defender of the Year in 2005, 2008 and 2009 and PFA Players' Player of the Year in 2005. He is the only player to be included in the FIFPro World XI for five consecutive seasons (2005-2009). During this time Terry was widely renowned as the best centre back in world football. He was also named in the all-star squad for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, the only English player to make the team.
6. Phillip Cocu
Playing Style
Cocu was one of a kind, being able to play at the highest level across defence or midfield. He is most remembered playing a defensive midfield role or playmaker dictating his team's play. He was best known for his tackling, vision, intelligence, and great teamwork.
Summary
Cocu played for Barcelona from 1998–2004 becoming their most capped foreigner of all time with 292 appearances (now this honour belongs to Messi). Cocu was not an outspoken player keeping away from media attention, however became a fan’s favourite and a trusted lieutenant on Barca’s midfield for years. He eventually left Spain to join his former club PSV despite being offered a new contract from Barcelona. Cocu captained the team to three championships in just three years, and guided them to the Champions League semi-final in 2004/05.
Cocu played over 100 games for Netherlands, many as captain. He captained the team in Euro 2000, Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006. He was voted FIFAWorldCup.com unsung Footballer for his club and country performances. Cocu was a vastly underrated player happy for glamorous players to steal the limelight. Extremely smart in his position play and vitally the team always comes first. Cocu is regarded as one of the greatest Dutch midfielders of all time, let alone since 2000.
7. Gaizka Mendieta
Playing Style
Mendieta was a versatile midfield general with good tackling skills and creativity. He played mainly central or right midfield for successful clubs and country. He scored and assisted many memorable goals in some of the biggest competitions in World Football. As his career progressed, he showed he could also play a deeper more defensive role, with his abilities shown whilst sometimes playing a right wing-back role for Barcelona.
Summary
From 2000-2002 Mendieta was deemed the best central midfielder in Europe and was voted the UEFA best midfielder for 2000 and 2001. He almost singlehandedly took an ordinary Valencia team to 2 consecutive finals losing the second on penalties despite scoring 2 himself. Mendieta’s scoring record was sublime for a midfielder who could tackle very well, and he was one of the most sought after players in the world. Mendieta became a clear, crucial cog for the national team too, he was key to helping the side reach the last 8 at Euro 2000 and the 2002 World Cup.
Mendieta became at the time the sixth most expensive player of all time when he joined Lazio for €48 million despite an accepted offer from Real Madrid, a testament to his abilities. His Lazio career was unfortunately blighted with injury and conflict with the manager, leading him to move on loan to Spanish giants Barcelona. He was a shining light in an aging Barcelona team and played 47 games over the 2002/03 season. Despite Barcelona keen to land Mendieta on a permanent deal, his desire to play in England led to a move to Middlesborough. The impact he had at Middlesborough was instant and astonishing. He helped bring the Teesside club its first ever silverware winning the League Cup in his first season and scored 2 goals in a Premier League win over Man Utd. The next season he was pivotal to helping the club to the UEFA Cup Final for the first time.
8. Michael Ballack
Playing Style
A player who possesses superb vision, awareness, positioning and leadership as well as a physique, he belied his natural position as a complete midfielder. His technical qualities and a fearsome right foot – as his 42 international goals (98 caps) would attest – make him the prototype for the modern day player.
Summary
Ballack was selected by Pelé as one of FIFA's 125 Greatest Living Players, and as the UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year in 2002. He has won the German Footballer of the Year award three times – in 2002, 2003 and 2005. In his prime he was undoubtedly one of the greatest centre-midfielders. Heck, even players, of the noughties. I have always seen key similarities between Ballack and Gerrard, and until today they are the only 2 players in their position that I’ve seen who can take the game by the scruff of the neck and drive the team forward in such a way. Ballack was at his best before Chelsea, however even at Stamford Bridge in a deeper role he became a key and reliable player.
The three-time German Footballer of the Year has been a commanding presence in the midfield for some of the world's top clubs. His goals, be it free-kicks, penalties or from open play, were decisive in unfancied Germany finishing runners up in the 2002 and 2006 World Cup, as well as runners up in the European Championships of 2008. If Michael Ballack isn't the greatest German footballer of all time, well then he's pretty damn close.
9. Raul
Playing Style
Raul is a natural goal scorer with an undying enthusiasm to win. He’s a complete forward who is capable with both feet, his head and pretty much any part of his body. He’s quick, clever, creative, a potent poacher in front of goal. His records will never be beaten.
Summary
I had a man crush on Raul, well for a certain period. The guy was much more than a football player, captain or symbol; he was someone who made you love the game, love Spanish football more and more. Raul González Blanco has a couple of decent tags to his name: All-time top scorer in the Champions league, all-time top scorer at Real Madrid (323 goals), third top goal scorer in La Liga (228 goals) and second top scorer of the Spanish national side (44 goals). He’s quite simply one of the best, if not the best striker in past decade; arguably in the history of football. Raul's intelligence sees him get away from his marker and create space well. His finishing touch in the box is second to none.
In 2003 Sir Alex Ferguson, Figo, Zidane and more all said Raul was the best player in the world. He was nicknamed 'the Lord of the Rings', because he always kissed his wedding ring after he scores. Raul is a master goal scorer on any stage. In European competitions, he is the all-time leading scorer of UEFA tournaments. He is the only player that has been awarded three times the "Best Forward of the Year" by UEFA (2000, 2001 and 2002)
It’s testament to Raul’s abilities that while Real Madrid have been the richest club in the world and could sign any player in the world, he was a constant fixture at the top of their team sheet. He doesn't play for himself and personal awards he plays for the team. This is one of the main reasons why Real Madrid were so successful in the early noughties. Raul was the maverick of the most successful club of his generation.
Over the course of his 16 year Real Madrid career, Raul went on to win almost everything bar the Nobel Peace Prize. Take a look in his trophy cabinet and you will see six La Liga titles, three Champions League winners’ medals and four Spanish Super Cups. He has captained club and country. Raul has scored in two Champions League finals and has never once been issued a red card; a predator in front of goal he may be, but a fair and respectful one at that.
10. Ronaldinho
Playing Style
Unplayable from 2002-2008.
Summary
Ronaldinho made the best defenders in the world look awful, on a consistent basis. He turned Real Madrid into a laughing stock, and owned every team in the Champions League time and time again. Fast, skilful, strong and creative, he was one of a kind that was always a big game.
His main playing position is as an attacking midfielder or forward. He won the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 2004 and 2005 and is widely regarded to be one of the best footballers of his generation. He won his first Champions League in 2006 and the Ballon d'Or in 2005. He was also named in the FIFA 100, a list of the greatest footballers compiled by fellow countryman Pelé, and in the FIFPro World XI consecutively from 2004–2007.
11. Pavel Nedved
Playing Style
Nedved is a creative genius on the ball and has vision that other players can only dream of. He is an all-round superstar and there is nothing he can’t do. He was the lynchpin in a successful Juventus team, and the star of an over-achieving Czech Republic national team.
Summary
He was, without doubt, one of the greatest and most creative midfielders of his generation. My deepest regret is that we never got to see this great player grace the Premier League. Nedved is, in my mind, one of the most innovative midfielders of all time. His sheer ability, both in scoring and creating goals, dazzled Serie A for a number of years, leading to a host of titles and deserved awards for the great Czech.
Winning the Ballon d'Or as the European Footballer of the Year in 2003, Nedved became only the second Czech player to receive this honour, and the first since the breakup of Czechoslovakia. He was also the recipient of the second Golden Foot award in 2004. Throughout his career, Nedved won numerous awards, including being named Czech Footballer of the Year four times and receiving the Golden Ball (Czech Republic) six times. Well known for his energy and tireless runs, refined dribbling, as well as his powerful shooting and goal scoring abilities.
Key to his success was his ability to astound opponents with his incredible touch and foresight. His play was almost like a sixth sense, and his goal scoring and assist records throughout his career speaks for itself.
I want to keep this brief because I trust everyone will understand what I’m trying to do here. Basically I’ve tried to build a hardworking team with winning players each with many individual and collective achievements. In the previous draft I made the mistake of selecting too many ‘flair’ players and it backfired, so I’ve also really thought about my midfielder, defence and overriding strategy.
In goal Petr Cech will be a top goalkeeper, you will all recall how good he was. Lizarazu is regarded as the best left back since 2000 in many online polls, I don’t know if I agree with this as it’s an ambiguous position however his man marking, defensive capabilities will be great. At right-back Paulo Ferreira is the most reliable player you can ask for, he can mark some of the top players out of big games. The centre backs I thought about, all good partnerships have a stopper (brave warrior type) and a cover (fast good on-ball type). I do believe I have this balance well with Pepe and Terry.
Just in front of the defence will be the highly successful Phillip Cocu who will provide a link and shield between midfield and defence. Just ahead of Cocu will be Ballack and Mendieta who will have a range of tasks which they are capable of. They will be required to tackle and help defend when needed as well as provide passes and runs forward. Both of these players are known for their all-round abilities and I think they will complement each other well.
One of the joys of having Nedved and Ronaldinho in my team is that they can play a variety of positions (all of which I thought long and hard about). I eventually came to a decision to have Ronaldinho on the left hand forward position (where he played in his Barcelona greatest moments). Nedved is more than capable of playing a similar role on the right hand side. Naturally Ronaldinho is more of an attacking player, this means a bit more defensive strength on the right hand side with Nedved. Up front I have one of the best Spanish players of all time in Raul. He has an ability to hold up play, bring others into play, head, close down from the front, and most importantly he scores lots and lots of goals.
In this match I am up against a very good team, however I believe that I could have a strategy to help stand me in good stead. I think it’s going to be a tough match that will rely on possession and ultimately the ability of wide players. I am assuming Cristiano Ronaldo plays on his left wing which would suit me to a T because I have Paulo Ferreira there (who dominated him due to knowing his game inside out). Ferreira can man mark Ronaldo just like he did in the 120minutes of Chelsea’s 2007 FA Cup Final victory.
I also think I will be up against physically strong centre midfielders with lampard as the sole creativity in there. The way I’m set up centrally, I have 3 players who can tackle, and will be trying to limit the time Lampard has on the ball and always have someone tracking him. I can’t foresee Keane and Emerson making many forward runs, and if they do it will leave more space for me in behind… Van Persie is clearly a good striker, I don’t know if he’s as good as Raul but I won’t make that judgement, I think it may prove difficult for him to get supply. Robinho and Cristiano Ronaldo aren’t exactly known for passing.. He has a good goalkeeper in Neuer however he’s still prone to making errors which I will hope to pick up on.
Ultimately playing a 4-5-1 hybrid, I think I could have a lot more possession with many ball playing players. Ballack, Mendieta, Nedved and Ronaldinho I think could link really well to fashion chances for each other as well as Raul the hotshot up top. Ronaldinho will own his position because that’s what he does, he is unstoppable even against the best players in the world. Nedved will be able to get forward and really show his footwork, creativity and class.
Anyway thanks for reading. Squeaky you have a great team I wish you luck mate.
In goal Petr Cech will be a top goalkeeper, you will all recall how good he was. Lizarazu is regarded as the best left back since 2000 in many online polls, I don’t know if I agree with this as it’s an ambiguous position however his man marking, defensive capabilities will be great. At right-back Paulo Ferreira is the most reliable player you can ask for, he can mark some of the top players out of big games. The centre backs I thought about, all good partnerships have a stopper (brave warrior type) and a cover (fast good on-ball type). I do believe I have this balance well with Pepe and Terry.
Just in front of the defence will be the highly successful Phillip Cocu who will provide a link and shield between midfield and defence. Just ahead of Cocu will be Ballack and Mendieta who will have a range of tasks which they are capable of. They will be required to tackle and help defend when needed as well as provide passes and runs forward. Both of these players are known for their all-round abilities and I think they will complement each other well.
One of the joys of having Nedved and Ronaldinho in my team is that they can play a variety of positions (all of which I thought long and hard about). I eventually came to a decision to have Ronaldinho on the left hand forward position (where he played in his Barcelona greatest moments). Nedved is more than capable of playing a similar role on the right hand side. Naturally Ronaldinho is more of an attacking player, this means a bit more defensive strength on the right hand side with Nedved. Up front I have one of the best Spanish players of all time in Raul. He has an ability to hold up play, bring others into play, head, close down from the front, and most importantly he scores lots and lots of goals.
In this match I am up against a very good team, however I believe that I could have a strategy to help stand me in good stead. I think it’s going to be a tough match that will rely on possession and ultimately the ability of wide players. I am assuming Cristiano Ronaldo plays on his left wing which would suit me to a T because I have Paulo Ferreira there (who dominated him due to knowing his game inside out). Ferreira can man mark Ronaldo just like he did in the 120minutes of Chelsea’s 2007 FA Cup Final victory.
I also think I will be up against physically strong centre midfielders with lampard as the sole creativity in there. The way I’m set up centrally, I have 3 players who can tackle, and will be trying to limit the time Lampard has on the ball and always have someone tracking him. I can’t foresee Keane and Emerson making many forward runs, and if they do it will leave more space for me in behind… Van Persie is clearly a good striker, I don’t know if he’s as good as Raul but I won’t make that judgement, I think it may prove difficult for him to get supply. Robinho and Cristiano Ronaldo aren’t exactly known for passing.. He has a good goalkeeper in Neuer however he’s still prone to making errors which I will hope to pick up on.
Ultimately playing a 4-5-1 hybrid, I think I could have a lot more possession with many ball playing players. Ballack, Mendieta, Nedved and Ronaldinho I think could link really well to fashion chances for each other as well as Raul the hotshot up top. Ronaldinho will own his position because that’s what he does, he is unstoppable even against the best players in the world. Nedved will be able to get forward and really show his footwork, creativity and class.
Anyway thanks for reading. Squeaky you have a great team I wish you luck mate.
Squeakybumtime- Formation/bio/tactics
Manuel Neuer
6 ft 4 in current German and Bayern number 1. At 27 he has won the Champions league, 1 Bundesliga title and 2 German Cups, including a treble this season. Shortlisted for 2007-08 UEFA Club Goalkeeper of the Year, the second most expensive goalkeeper of all time. Holds Bayern Munich record for most competitive clean sheets in a row, having gone over 1,000 minutes without conceding and breaking Oliver Kahn’s record.
In the 2012 Champions League final, he took and scored the third penalty for his side, as well as saving Juan Mata’s effort.
In the 2013 final, he made a string of top class saves to keep Dortmund at bay, and from the quarter final onwards was never beaten from play, keeping 2 clean sheets against both Juventus and Barcelona.
2011 footballer of the year in Germany, and UEFA Euro 2012 team of the tournament.
Philip Lahm
A versatile full back who is very comfortable on either side, Lahm is the current Bayern Munich and German captain, no mean feat considering those who have gone before him. This season he has guided Bayern to the treble of Champions League, Bundesliga and the German Cup (DFB-Pokal).
Lahm was named in the team of the tournament at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, as well as the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.
He has been named in the UEFA team of the year in 2006, 2008 and 2012, and the FIFA team of the year in 2008.
Arguably the best full back in the world at the moment, he is unlike most full backs in that he can attack and defend with equal strength, shown by the fact that he has scored in 3 of the 4 major tournaments he has played in, and been named in team of the tournament in each of these.
Jaap Stam
One of the best centre backs to ever play in the Premier League, Stam had a rare combination of speed, strength and ball-playing ability. One on one it was like trying to get around the great wall.
Won the league in all his three seasons, and an FA Cup. Made the PFA Team of the Year in all his three seasons in England. Twice won UEFA Best Club Defender of the Year during that spell, and after his departure from United they won only one league in 4 seasons, showing the sizeable gap he left in the back four.
Sir Alex Ferguson famously admitted that selling Stam was a bad mistake when asked about the regrets he had as a manager. "At the time he had just come back from an achilles injury and we thought he had just lost a little bit… But in playing terms it was a mistake”
Voted into the Overseas Team of the Decade in the Premier League 10 Season Awards in 2002.
Giorgio Chiellini
The Seria A defender of the year in 2008, 2009 and 2010, Chiellini is a rough a ready centreback/leftback, notorious for his hard tacking approach to the game. He is the perfect foil for Stam’s ball playing ability in the heart of my defense.
Chiellini has a keen eye for goal, and has scored over 30 goals in his career with club and country. He rose to international prominence in Euro 2008, when replacing Cannavaro in the Italian defense, and single handedly keeping the Spanish at bay in a 0-0 quarter final encounter. A series of crunching, last man tackles on Torres and Villa cemented Chiellini’s place as one of the best centre halves in the world. In the tournament, after missing the first game, a 3-0 thrashing to Holland, Italy and Chiellini went on to keep two clean sheets in the remaining 3 games, with Chiellini prominent in all three games.
With Chiellini in the side, Juventus have conceded only 44 goals in the past two Seria A seasons, and of course with his help went undefeated in the 2011/12 season, keeping an amazing 40 clean sheets, and conceding more than one goal on just five occasions in the two seasons. To sum it up, Chiellini is a beast.
William Gallas
Versatile French defender, Gallas is comfortable across all positions in the back four. He was part of the Chelsea side that kept 25 clean sheets in the 2004-05 season, and conceding only 15 goals in 38 league games. He forged a formidable centre back partnership with John Terry, which included a run of 16 games without conceding a goal.
PFA team of the year in 2003 and 2006 and ESM team of the year 2007-08, Gallas is a quick, intelligent and tough defender. He also pops up with the odd goal or two here and there. 28 career club goals in 437 appearances, and during 84 caps for France, their 11th most capped player of all time, Gallas scored 5 goals for Les Bleus.
Roy Keane
One of the most influential players ever to play in the premier league, Keane could strike fear into opponents by just looking at them. Most famously at Highbury in 2005 when he called out Patrick Vieira in the tunnel before the match; “Tell him to shut his fu**ing mouth.. I’ll fu**ing see you out there”. According to the Guardian that night, “With an extra man deployed in midfield they eventually dominated as Roy Keane had one of those nights when power somehow surges through his ageing body”.
With five appearances in PFA Team of the Year (three in the 00s), and FWA and PFA player of the year in 2000, Keane was the best tough-tackling midfielder of his generation. Won 7 PL titles with Utd and was an ever-present in Utd’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson, captaining Utd from 1997 to 2005.
Internationally, his best displays came in the 2002 WC qualifying campaign, when due to a number of match winning performances by Keane (particularily against the Dutch at Lansdown road, where Keane clattered the Dutch dangerman Marc Overmars after 60 seconds, which set the tone for the game to come) Ireland went undefeated, including home and away fixtures against Holland and Portugal.
He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2004 in recognition of his impact on the English game, and became the only Irish player to be selected into the FIFA 100, a list of the greatest living footballers picked by Pelé. Keane scored 51 goals for United despite being mainly used as a defensive midfielder. Keane will captain the side and lead by example.
Emerson
Capped by Brazil 73 times, he was the captain before the 2002 World Cup, which they won, but dislocated his shoulder in training before the first game, so he was unable to lift the trophy.
A distinguished career which saw him play for, among others, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Juventus, Emerson is a combative and dynamic defensive midfielder renowned for his efficient tackling and simple passing style. His nickname is Il Puma for his feline movements in midfield. Along with Keane he is greatly adept at breaking up attacking moves and re-directing the focus of the attack.
Frank Lampard
608 Chelsea appearances and 203 goals for Chelsea. 29 goals in 96 caps for England. Frank has enjoyed a decade at the very top.
One of the best midfielders of his generation, he has everything: unbelievable work-rate, a range of passing which is rarely seen in players and a goalscoring ability whether it be arriving late in the box or particularily from long range, Frank has it all and more. Lampard is one of five players, and the only midfielder, to have scored 150 or more goals in the Premier League. He is second in the Premier League's all-time assists table.
Jose Mourinho: “Lamps is Lamps. When he plays well he is best in the game, when he plays bad, he is the second or the third best”.
Roy Keane: “I don't think he's been naturally the most gifted player in the world. From what I hear he's a good one to practise and he's improved to be one of the best midfielders in the world”
The list of individual awards is astonishing:
2005 FIFA World Player of the Year and 2005 Ballon d'Or runner-up, FWA Footballer of the Year 2005, UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year 2008, Premier League Player of the Season: 2004–05, 2005–06, UEFA Euro 2004 Team of the Tournament, PFA Premier League Team of the Year: 2004, 2005, 2006, Chelsea F.C. all-time top scorer: 203 goals.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Along with Messi, currently one of the two best players on this planet. This man is incredible. He has it all, pace, power, accuracy, and an unerring eye for goal. He's six-foot one, brave as a lion, strong as an ox and quick as lightning. Where this man goes goals follow. 118 in 292 games for MUFC, including 42 in 49 in 2007-08. 201 in 199 for Real Madrid, in any era over a goal a game is just astonishing. His ability to score from anywhere (40 yards vs Porto in a CL quarter final in 2009) being a factor which makes him unplayable at times. The focal point of the attack, especially on the counter attack where no defender in the world can keep pace with him, Ronaldo is the key cog in the wheel. Dead balls regularly despatched with aplomb, Ronaldo can expect to be in the goals no matter who the opposition.
His individual honours read as follows (abbreviated as there are so many):
Ballon D’or and FIFA World Player of the year 2008, Runner up 4 times, UEFA team of the year a record 7 times, named in the team of the tournament at the 2004 and 2012 European Championships, PFA, FWA POTY in 2008 and 2009, European golden boot 2008, 2011.
“We’ve had some great players at this club in my 20 years, but he’s up with the best.” Sir Alex Ferguson
“There have been a few players described as the new George Best over the years, but this is the first time it's been a compliment to me." George Best
“Ronaldo is better than George Best and Denis Law, who were two brilliant and great players in the history of United.” Johan Cruyff
“For me he is the best player in the world. A machine. Incomparable.” Fernando Torres
Robin van Persie
Currently the Best Striker in the premiership, RvP is a goalscoring machine. Since January 2011, RvP has scored 74 goals in 101 league games. Golden boot winner for the previous two seasons in the premiership, RvP is a lethal marksman who can score from anywhere. Goals such as v Charlton in 2006, Everton in 2011 and Aston Villa in April (to clinch the league title) mark RvP as a standout tallisman.
Not only that, he possesses an all-round game which few strikers have. He can drop deep and link up play effortlessly, pick out a pass without looking, and his dead ball deliveries are exquisite. The past two and a half seasons have seen RvP being mentioned in the same breath as the world’s best. He is the complete package.
Third place in the Euro 2008 golden boot, RvP has also picked up personal awards such as PFA and FWA POTY 2011-12. Also named in the team of the year for the past 2 seasons.
Pedro
The diminutive Spanish winger usually plays the ball with his left foot but is actually right-footed. He can play on either side of the pitch, and even fit in as a target man; he is excellent at finding the right position and has a strong long-range shot. Pedro is a speed demon and has been terrorising defenders across Spain and Europe for a number of seasons.
Pedro has already enjoyed a success filled career at the tender age of 25. Four La Liga titles in 5 seasons, two Copa del Ray, two Champions Leagues followed by two Super Cups and World Club Cups. With Spain he has enjoyed even more success, as current World Cup and European Champion. 26 Spanish caps and 12 goals, in what has been described as one of the greatest sides of all time is no mean feat. 68 goals in 214 games for an all conquering Barcelona side also make Pedro a delightful pick.
Pedro is the only player to score in six different club competitions in one season – the three domestic tournaments, the UEFA Champions League and Super Cup and the Club World Cup.
Sub: Robinho
The mercurial Brazilian is the unlucky player to miss out in a place in my first XI. The World Soccer Young Player of the Year in 2004/05 and Bola de Ouro in 2005, Robinho on his day is capable of ripping teams apart with his speed, trickery and skill. 150 club career goals, and 90 caps and 26 goals for Brazil before his 30th birthday make Robinho a very experienced player.
Robinho was Real Madrid's third highest scorer during his Madrid years, behind strikers Raul and Ruud van Nistelrooy, two of the most potent scorers in the clubs history. He was also the player with the second most assists, behind Guti, and the only Madrid player, along with goalkeeper Iker Casillas, to finish in the top ten of the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year nominations for 2007–08. His ability to both score and assist are vital to my team, and on his day Robinho can be simply unplayable.
6 ft 4 in current German and Bayern number 1. At 27 he has won the Champions league, 1 Bundesliga title and 2 German Cups, including a treble this season. Shortlisted for 2007-08 UEFA Club Goalkeeper of the Year, the second most expensive goalkeeper of all time. Holds Bayern Munich record for most competitive clean sheets in a row, having gone over 1,000 minutes without conceding and breaking Oliver Kahn’s record.
In the 2012 Champions League final, he took and scored the third penalty for his side, as well as saving Juan Mata’s effort.
In the 2013 final, he made a string of top class saves to keep Dortmund at bay, and from the quarter final onwards was never beaten from play, keeping 2 clean sheets against both Juventus and Barcelona.
2011 footballer of the year in Germany, and UEFA Euro 2012 team of the tournament.
Philip Lahm
A versatile full back who is very comfortable on either side, Lahm is the current Bayern Munich and German captain, no mean feat considering those who have gone before him. This season he has guided Bayern to the treble of Champions League, Bundesliga and the German Cup (DFB-Pokal).
Lahm was named in the team of the tournament at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, as well as the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.
He has been named in the UEFA team of the year in 2006, 2008 and 2012, and the FIFA team of the year in 2008.
Arguably the best full back in the world at the moment, he is unlike most full backs in that he can attack and defend with equal strength, shown by the fact that he has scored in 3 of the 4 major tournaments he has played in, and been named in team of the tournament in each of these.
Jaap Stam
One of the best centre backs to ever play in the Premier League, Stam had a rare combination of speed, strength and ball-playing ability. One on one it was like trying to get around the great wall.
Won the league in all his three seasons, and an FA Cup. Made the PFA Team of the Year in all his three seasons in England. Twice won UEFA Best Club Defender of the Year during that spell, and after his departure from United they won only one league in 4 seasons, showing the sizeable gap he left in the back four.
Sir Alex Ferguson famously admitted that selling Stam was a bad mistake when asked about the regrets he had as a manager. "At the time he had just come back from an achilles injury and we thought he had just lost a little bit… But in playing terms it was a mistake”
Voted into the Overseas Team of the Decade in the Premier League 10 Season Awards in 2002.
Giorgio Chiellini
The Seria A defender of the year in 2008, 2009 and 2010, Chiellini is a rough a ready centreback/leftback, notorious for his hard tacking approach to the game. He is the perfect foil for Stam’s ball playing ability in the heart of my defense.
Chiellini has a keen eye for goal, and has scored over 30 goals in his career with club and country. He rose to international prominence in Euro 2008, when replacing Cannavaro in the Italian defense, and single handedly keeping the Spanish at bay in a 0-0 quarter final encounter. A series of crunching, last man tackles on Torres and Villa cemented Chiellini’s place as one of the best centre halves in the world. In the tournament, after missing the first game, a 3-0 thrashing to Holland, Italy and Chiellini went on to keep two clean sheets in the remaining 3 games, with Chiellini prominent in all three games.
With Chiellini in the side, Juventus have conceded only 44 goals in the past two Seria A seasons, and of course with his help went undefeated in the 2011/12 season, keeping an amazing 40 clean sheets, and conceding more than one goal on just five occasions in the two seasons. To sum it up, Chiellini is a beast.
William Gallas
Versatile French defender, Gallas is comfortable across all positions in the back four. He was part of the Chelsea side that kept 25 clean sheets in the 2004-05 season, and conceding only 15 goals in 38 league games. He forged a formidable centre back partnership with John Terry, which included a run of 16 games without conceding a goal.
PFA team of the year in 2003 and 2006 and ESM team of the year 2007-08, Gallas is a quick, intelligent and tough defender. He also pops up with the odd goal or two here and there. 28 career club goals in 437 appearances, and during 84 caps for France, their 11th most capped player of all time, Gallas scored 5 goals for Les Bleus.
Roy Keane
One of the most influential players ever to play in the premier league, Keane could strike fear into opponents by just looking at them. Most famously at Highbury in 2005 when he called out Patrick Vieira in the tunnel before the match; “Tell him to shut his fu**ing mouth.. I’ll fu**ing see you out there”. According to the Guardian that night, “With an extra man deployed in midfield they eventually dominated as Roy Keane had one of those nights when power somehow surges through his ageing body”.
With five appearances in PFA Team of the Year (three in the 00s), and FWA and PFA player of the year in 2000, Keane was the best tough-tackling midfielder of his generation. Won 7 PL titles with Utd and was an ever-present in Utd’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson, captaining Utd from 1997 to 2005.
Internationally, his best displays came in the 2002 WC qualifying campaign, when due to a number of match winning performances by Keane (particularily against the Dutch at Lansdown road, where Keane clattered the Dutch dangerman Marc Overmars after 60 seconds, which set the tone for the game to come) Ireland went undefeated, including home and away fixtures against Holland and Portugal.
He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2004 in recognition of his impact on the English game, and became the only Irish player to be selected into the FIFA 100, a list of the greatest living footballers picked by Pelé. Keane scored 51 goals for United despite being mainly used as a defensive midfielder. Keane will captain the side and lead by example.
Emerson
Capped by Brazil 73 times, he was the captain before the 2002 World Cup, which they won, but dislocated his shoulder in training before the first game, so he was unable to lift the trophy.
A distinguished career which saw him play for, among others, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Juventus, Emerson is a combative and dynamic defensive midfielder renowned for his efficient tackling and simple passing style. His nickname is Il Puma for his feline movements in midfield. Along with Keane he is greatly adept at breaking up attacking moves and re-directing the focus of the attack.
Frank Lampard
608 Chelsea appearances and 203 goals for Chelsea. 29 goals in 96 caps for England. Frank has enjoyed a decade at the very top.
One of the best midfielders of his generation, he has everything: unbelievable work-rate, a range of passing which is rarely seen in players and a goalscoring ability whether it be arriving late in the box or particularily from long range, Frank has it all and more. Lampard is one of five players, and the only midfielder, to have scored 150 or more goals in the Premier League. He is second in the Premier League's all-time assists table.
Jose Mourinho: “Lamps is Lamps. When he plays well he is best in the game, when he plays bad, he is the second or the third best”.
Roy Keane: “I don't think he's been naturally the most gifted player in the world. From what I hear he's a good one to practise and he's improved to be one of the best midfielders in the world”
The list of individual awards is astonishing:
2005 FIFA World Player of the Year and 2005 Ballon d'Or runner-up, FWA Footballer of the Year 2005, UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year 2008, Premier League Player of the Season: 2004–05, 2005–06, UEFA Euro 2004 Team of the Tournament, PFA Premier League Team of the Year: 2004, 2005, 2006, Chelsea F.C. all-time top scorer: 203 goals.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Along with Messi, currently one of the two best players on this planet. This man is incredible. He has it all, pace, power, accuracy, and an unerring eye for goal. He's six-foot one, brave as a lion, strong as an ox and quick as lightning. Where this man goes goals follow. 118 in 292 games for MUFC, including 42 in 49 in 2007-08. 201 in 199 for Real Madrid, in any era over a goal a game is just astonishing. His ability to score from anywhere (40 yards vs Porto in a CL quarter final in 2009) being a factor which makes him unplayable at times. The focal point of the attack, especially on the counter attack where no defender in the world can keep pace with him, Ronaldo is the key cog in the wheel. Dead balls regularly despatched with aplomb, Ronaldo can expect to be in the goals no matter who the opposition.
His individual honours read as follows (abbreviated as there are so many):
Ballon D’or and FIFA World Player of the year 2008, Runner up 4 times, UEFA team of the year a record 7 times, named in the team of the tournament at the 2004 and 2012 European Championships, PFA, FWA POTY in 2008 and 2009, European golden boot 2008, 2011.
“We’ve had some great players at this club in my 20 years, but he’s up with the best.” Sir Alex Ferguson
“There have been a few players described as the new George Best over the years, but this is the first time it's been a compliment to me." George Best
“Ronaldo is better than George Best and Denis Law, who were two brilliant and great players in the history of United.” Johan Cruyff
“For me he is the best player in the world. A machine. Incomparable.” Fernando Torres
Robin van Persie
Currently the Best Striker in the premiership, RvP is a goalscoring machine. Since January 2011, RvP has scored 74 goals in 101 league games. Golden boot winner for the previous two seasons in the premiership, RvP is a lethal marksman who can score from anywhere. Goals such as v Charlton in 2006, Everton in 2011 and Aston Villa in April (to clinch the league title) mark RvP as a standout tallisman.
Not only that, he possesses an all-round game which few strikers have. He can drop deep and link up play effortlessly, pick out a pass without looking, and his dead ball deliveries are exquisite. The past two and a half seasons have seen RvP being mentioned in the same breath as the world’s best. He is the complete package.
Third place in the Euro 2008 golden boot, RvP has also picked up personal awards such as PFA and FWA POTY 2011-12. Also named in the team of the year for the past 2 seasons.
Pedro
The diminutive Spanish winger usually plays the ball with his left foot but is actually right-footed. He can play on either side of the pitch, and even fit in as a target man; he is excellent at finding the right position and has a strong long-range shot. Pedro is a speed demon and has been terrorising defenders across Spain and Europe for a number of seasons.
Pedro has already enjoyed a success filled career at the tender age of 25. Four La Liga titles in 5 seasons, two Copa del Ray, two Champions Leagues followed by two Super Cups and World Club Cups. With Spain he has enjoyed even more success, as current World Cup and European Champion. 26 Spanish caps and 12 goals, in what has been described as one of the greatest sides of all time is no mean feat. 68 goals in 214 games for an all conquering Barcelona side also make Pedro a delightful pick.
Pedro is the only player to score in six different club competitions in one season – the three domestic tournaments, the UEFA Champions League and Super Cup and the Club World Cup.
Sub: Robinho
The mercurial Brazilian is the unlucky player to miss out in a place in my first XI. The World Soccer Young Player of the Year in 2004/05 and Bola de Ouro in 2005, Robinho on his day is capable of ripping teams apart with his speed, trickery and skill. 150 club career goals, and 90 caps and 26 goals for Brazil before his 30th birthday make Robinho a very experienced player.
Robinho was Real Madrid's third highest scorer during his Madrid years, behind strikers Raul and Ruud van Nistelrooy, two of the most potent scorers in the clubs history. He was also the player with the second most assists, behind Guti, and the only Madrid player, along with goalkeeper Iker Casillas, to finish in the top ten of the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year nominations for 2007–08. His ability to both score and assist are vital to my team, and on his day Robinho can be simply unplayable.
When picking my team I wanted to have a very solid core four: two big powerful centre halves who complement each other, and two tough tacking defensive midfielders who are very comfortable on the ball. In Stam and Chiellini I think I have the ideal centre back pairing. Stam is 6 ft 3 in, built like a brick shit house, powerful, deceptively quick and very comfortable with the ball at his feet coming out of defence. Stam’s ability to read a game is so unique for a big man, and this was one of the main reasons he was twice European defender of the year. Chiellini is 6 ft 1 in, one of the toughest tackling defenders in world football, a powerhouse in the air and on the ground, and the perfect foil for Stam. Together they can dominate games from the back, and are equally adept at nullifying both aerial and ground attacking forays.
Ahead of them is the duo of Keane and Emerson. Again these are two powerful players, with both players renowned for efficient tackling and simple passing styles. Keane’s mantra has always been to win the ball, pass it to a teammate, and keep moving looking for a return. Emerson’s nickname is “il Puma” for his feline movements in midfield. Their role is to break up attacks and quickly move the ball on. If either player wants to join the attack, Lampard will easily be able to withdraw so the team holds its shape and can snuff out any counter attack quickly. I should mention that in Keane I probably have one of the most effective leaders to play football over the past decade. While Ronaldo is winning games on his own with goals, Keane was winning games on his own with his tough tackling no nonsense approach in the middle of the park. His presence alone is enough to make those around him lift his game and cause opponents to make silly mistakes.
With these two players we should easily maintain superiority centrally, and along with Lampard, who sits in front of those two, he is also a very good player to have centrally because he can drop deep to pick up the ball and set up attacks, and he is extremely effective with his back to goal, as he awareness and peripheral vision is second to none. Having three players centrally, who are so good on the ball is an important facet to this team. They are all very good footballers who can pick out a pass and rarely lose the ball, in passing or in possession.
The two full-backs – Lahm and Gallas - were handpicked because they are first and foremost good defensively. Both have been part of some of the tightest defensive units in the world over the past decade. Gallas’ Chelsea kept 25 clean sheets in the 2004-05 season, and conceding only 15 goals in 38 league games. Lahm is captain of the Bayern team who just this season set the German record for least number of goals conceded in a season: 18 (only 7 away from home all season). Both players will be given license to get forward to support attacks, as when one goes forward I will still have Stam, Chiellini, Keane, Emerson and the other full back, more than enough to cover counter attacks. Both also have an eye for goal, with 60 career goals between them for club and country. Both are equally capable on either side of defence, and in Gallas I have a man that can play anywhere across the back four should the need arise. With Ronaldo and Pedro not the most defensive minded, I am quite happy that my back six are all capable defensively and would walk into most if not all teams in the world over the past decade.
One up front
Like most successful teams this past decade (Barcelona 2009-11, Spain 2008-12, Arsenal 2001-04, Chelsea 2004-06), I will be operating with a lone striker, two attacking wingers and an attacking midfielder who pops up in the box more often that Jack.
My choice of weapon up front is RVP. Since January 2011, RvP has scored 74 goals in 101 league games. He is clinical, and given half a chance he will score. RvP will mainly be asked to play right up on the last man, on the shoulders of the two opposing centre halves. He will run into the spaces to exploit gaps in the opposition defence, a trait which he doesn’t get enough credit for. Of course if needs be RvP can drop deep to pick up the ball, and he has the control and passing range of a centre midfielder. He can score from all manner of angles and from all types of passes. Always in the right place at the right time, he will work the defence for 90 minutes, he has played 6,454 minutes in the league over the past two seasons (71.7 games out of 76), RvP is a tireless athlete and an all round nightmare for defenders.
The three behind him are Ronaldo on the left, Lampard in the centre and Pedro on the right. Pedro will play as an out and out right winger, terrorising defenders with his speed. He has been a major part of Barcelona’s tiki-taka team over the past four seasons, so his ability to pass in tight spaces and ghost past defenders for the return will be instrumental.
Lampard’s role will be similar to that he played for Chelsea in 2009-10, operating behind the striker, a season which harvested 22 league goals in 36 games. There is no one better at arriving late into the box to be at the end of cut-backs/crosses, and his ability to score from distance will be a key asset to this team. Lampard is also a great man to have to track back, break up attacks, then bomb forward and create 2 v 1 and 3 v 2 situations against the opposition.
Finally, and of course leaving the best until last, I have Cristiano Ronaldo on the left wing. Ronaldo’s role will be exactly as it has been for the past 6 seasons. He is always an outlet when the defence/midfield is breaking. His strength, speed and skill can allow him to barge/fly/ghost past defenders at his will, and given the space to run and shoot, we all know what Ronaldo can produce. 146 goals in 135 league games for Real Madrid since his arrival, he simply is unstoppable. In the air Ronaldo is one of the greatest there has ever been, and with Pedro and Lahm delivering pinpoint crosses to Ronaldo and RvP, there is no way to stop him arriving at the back post with towering headers above full backs and centre backs alike.
In the main this team will play their football on the ground, with quick, sharp passing and counter attacks after the Keane and Emerson axis has dispossessed the opposition. Ronaldo will be the focal point of the attack, the majority of counter attacks will look for Ronaldo to use his speed and strength to open the opposition up. With RvP running in behind and causing crater size holes in defence, Ronaldo will have many options: he can shoot, which generally ends up in a goal; he can slip in Pedro who will make his way in from the wing; and of course Frank will always be arriving late in the box for cutbacks, after all defenders have automatically gravitated towards Ronaldo.
Set pieces. RvP (left foot) and Lampard (right foot) will share corners and long range free-kicks. Ronaldo, Chiellini, Stam, RVP/Lamps (when not taking them) and Keane (remember Turin 21st April 1999) are all brilliant headers of the ball so this will be a real threat. These guys will also help defending set pieces and should do it well. With Manuel Neuer being a very commanding keeper and an exceptional shot stopper, this is a good combination. Short range free kicks (35 yards and closer) will in the beginning be taken by Ronaldo and Lampard from the left and RvP from the right hand side of the goal. I will leave Lamps and Ronaldo decide among themselves who takes them.
Finally, before I move on to Chillada’s team, I want to add that a real strength of my team is the different ways it can score goals, and how the different players complement each other by their differences from each other. The team had lightening speed in wide areas from Ronaldo and Pedro, who will look to exploit Chillada’s full backs (Ferreira and Lizarazu) neither of whom will be able to cope with the speed of my wingers. I have perhaps the best header of the ball in the world in Ronaldo (see goal vs. MUFC last March). In the middle of the park we have three players very comfortable with the ball at their feet who can dictate play when in possession. We can also break up attacks very quickly with Keane an Emerson, and go box-to-box in seconds with Ronaldo and Pedro. In defence we have great versatility with Lahm (LB/RB), Chiellini (CB/LB) and Gallas (RB/CB/LB).
Specific Match Tactics vs. Chillada
(NOTE: This is just a predicted lineup by Squeakybumtime and isn't the formation that Chillada has necessarily gone with)
Defensive Tactics
Limiting Ronaldinho and Nedved
Chillada has some great players in his team, but I think the key to keeping him at bay is to keep Ronaldinho and Nedved in check. While I don’t see either of the two as natural wingers, I think he will play them there and allow them to drift inside. This will suit me down to the ground. If and when they move inside, it will be like stepping into a piranha pool for them, with Keane and Emerson snapping at their heels, closing them down, and allowing them no space, tackling, harassing and dispossessing. And that’s only when they have the ball. If they drift inside to allow their full backs to bomb on, Keane and Emerson will track them, effectively man marking them, and it will allow me Lahm and Gallas vs. Ferreira and Lizarazu on the wings. I would be more than confident with that duel.
My preferred tactic is to allow them come inside on the ball, narrow the play, and with Stam, Chiellini, Keane and Emerson all in a small area, I expect there to be little or no room for Ronaldinho and Nedved to weave their magic, and as they say, too many cooks spoil the broth. Closing down quickly is the key, and Keane and Emerson have plenty experience doing this.
Stopping supply to Owen/Raul
While Owen and Raul are on their day are two of the greatest strikers in Europe over the past decade, they are more than containable. I think Raul may be played a bit deeper than Owen to supply and hold up the ball, and this will suit my congested midfield area perfectly. Keane, Emerson, Lampard, Ballack, Mendietta, Ronaldinho, Nedved, Raul...... it will just be a cattle mart, and this will seriously hinder Raul’s, Nedved’s and Ronaldinho’s creative abilities. With Owen, it’s simple. Jaap Stam is perhaps one of the fastest CB in the world over the past decade, and when you consider his strength vs. Owen’s, it would be like that of a cat compared to a Rhino: no contest. Stam has the speed, agility and mental awareness to nullify Owen. If somehow they do break free, Chiellini is a hard as nails centre half who loves a good tackle, and won’t be afraid to stick the boot in.
Ultimately my defensive tactics rely on closing Ronaldinho and Nedved down and winning the ball back with my players’ renowned tackling abilities and work-rate. Hopefully this will reduce the service that Owen and Raul will get, and turn into swift counter attacks at the other end.
Do not allow Ballack/Mendietta time on the ball
If these two are given time on the ball they can seriously hurt me. When we are defending, I will ask RvP to drop back a bit and Pedro to tuck in so we can pressurise these two. Lampard will also be used to close down Ballack specifically. Lampard has a work rate which is unquestionable. You don’t survive twelve seasons in Chelsea’s engine room unless you are willing to run yourself into the ground. Ballack doesn’t like to be hurried, he spent seasons at Leverkusen and Bayern with oceans of time on the ball, he will not be getting that here.
(NOTE: This is just a predicted lineup by Squeakybumtime and isn't the formation that Chillada has necessarily gone with)
Attacking Tactics
Electrifying speed
Chillada has two good centre halves in Terry and Pepe, but both are susceptible to moments of madness and rashness, so they will have to watch themselves with Ronaldo and Pedro bursting in from the wings and RvP making endless runs in behind them. I believe this defence is not the quickest, particularly Terry, and will be looking to exploit this and him with creative balls from Lampard and RvP and runs from the wings by Ronaldo and Pedro.
I will also be looking for Ronaldo and Pedro to take on the full backs at every opportunity, as I think these areas are the weakest point of Chillada’s team. Ferreira will have no chance of stopping his fellow Portuguese Ronaldo, and should Chillada wish to double up on him it will allow more space in the centre for the deadly RvP and Lampard with his trademark perfectly timed runs into the box. Pedro will keep Lizarazu well occupied on the other wing, with his ability to dribble on his left foot then suddenly turn onto his right (stronger) foot.
Counter attacking
This counter-attacking element is a key factor I want with the speed of Ronaldo and Pedro, and the running power of Lampard and Keane from midfield. I also believe it’s a great way to hurt Chillada, his lack of real pace in defence and centre midfield. I anticipate Chillada will make a key role being to attempt to shackle Ronaldo so I want to really test him to the limit, almost encourage him into choosing to stick to Ronaldo and have to watch on helplessly as runners power forward in Lampard and Keane and Lahm from the opposite full back position.
My midfield pairing of Keane and Emerson are absolutely perfect as the starting point of counter attacks. They love to get stuck in, win hard fought balls and set up counter attacks with quick and accurate passing. Their role in the counter attacks will be key, while they begin the attack and set up my speed merchants, they must then keep at least one of them back to defend any potential opposing counter attack. I would expect Keane to do most of the marauding runs forward of the two, but both have the licence to go forward and are intelligent enough to realise if one commits the other stays home to mind the house. A perfect complimentary duo in any team I feel.
RvP: a deadly marksman
RvP is one of the few strikers in the world who can play in a variety of position and a variety of styles. He prefers to be the man up top, playing on the shoulder of the last defender and running in behind is an attribute which he doesn’t get enough praise for, but he is superb at it. He can also drop deep and link the midfield and attack. He can defend set pieces, he can pick out a 50 yard pass at ease, he is strong, quick, and one of the best finishers in the world (see Arsenal vs. Charlton 2006, Arsenal vs. Everton 2011 and MUFC vs. Aston Villa 2013). In my team he will of course be the lone striker, but with Ronaldo and Pedro being so attacking he will at times drop deep, play as a target man and use his creative abilities to help Ronaldo and Pedro.
Ronaldo
Regularly considered the greatest player in the world at the minute (Messi excepted of course), Ronaldo has scored over a goal a game for Real Madrid since he joined them in summer 2010 (201 in 199). I think he can profit from the creativity of RvP and Lampard, crosses from Lahm and Pedro on the right, and his own ability to take a match by the scruff of the neck and take on defenders and score from all angles and distances. Another potential key for Ronaldo is directly facing Ferreira. Ferreira is smaller, weaker, slower compared to Ronaldo. I am expecting a great amount of success, and in Ronaldo I have a match winner that Ferreira will not be able to shackle, even if he had a twin brother helping him.
In Summary
I’m not entirely sure how he will arrange his formation with the players at his disposal, but I think there is a fair chance he’s going to play a variation of 4-4-2, and look to get the ball to Ronaldinho and Nedved. To take care of that, I’ve outlined that I will want the middle area of the field to be quite congested, break up the play with Kane and Emerson’s combative abilities and shift the ball fast on the counter to the wings and exploit his lack of pace at full back. In Ronaldo I have one of the most potent players of all time, and he holds the key to this tie.
Ahead of them is the duo of Keane and Emerson. Again these are two powerful players, with both players renowned for efficient tackling and simple passing styles. Keane’s mantra has always been to win the ball, pass it to a teammate, and keep moving looking for a return. Emerson’s nickname is “il Puma” for his feline movements in midfield. Their role is to break up attacks and quickly move the ball on. If either player wants to join the attack, Lampard will easily be able to withdraw so the team holds its shape and can snuff out any counter attack quickly. I should mention that in Keane I probably have one of the most effective leaders to play football over the past decade. While Ronaldo is winning games on his own with goals, Keane was winning games on his own with his tough tackling no nonsense approach in the middle of the park. His presence alone is enough to make those around him lift his game and cause opponents to make silly mistakes.
With these two players we should easily maintain superiority centrally, and along with Lampard, who sits in front of those two, he is also a very good player to have centrally because he can drop deep to pick up the ball and set up attacks, and he is extremely effective with his back to goal, as he awareness and peripheral vision is second to none. Having three players centrally, who are so good on the ball is an important facet to this team. They are all very good footballers who can pick out a pass and rarely lose the ball, in passing or in possession.
The two full-backs – Lahm and Gallas - were handpicked because they are first and foremost good defensively. Both have been part of some of the tightest defensive units in the world over the past decade. Gallas’ Chelsea kept 25 clean sheets in the 2004-05 season, and conceding only 15 goals in 38 league games. Lahm is captain of the Bayern team who just this season set the German record for least number of goals conceded in a season: 18 (only 7 away from home all season). Both players will be given license to get forward to support attacks, as when one goes forward I will still have Stam, Chiellini, Keane, Emerson and the other full back, more than enough to cover counter attacks. Both also have an eye for goal, with 60 career goals between them for club and country. Both are equally capable on either side of defence, and in Gallas I have a man that can play anywhere across the back four should the need arise. With Ronaldo and Pedro not the most defensive minded, I am quite happy that my back six are all capable defensively and would walk into most if not all teams in the world over the past decade.
One up front
Like most successful teams this past decade (Barcelona 2009-11, Spain 2008-12, Arsenal 2001-04, Chelsea 2004-06), I will be operating with a lone striker, two attacking wingers and an attacking midfielder who pops up in the box more often that Jack.
My choice of weapon up front is RVP. Since January 2011, RvP has scored 74 goals in 101 league games. He is clinical, and given half a chance he will score. RvP will mainly be asked to play right up on the last man, on the shoulders of the two opposing centre halves. He will run into the spaces to exploit gaps in the opposition defence, a trait which he doesn’t get enough credit for. Of course if needs be RvP can drop deep to pick up the ball, and he has the control and passing range of a centre midfielder. He can score from all manner of angles and from all types of passes. Always in the right place at the right time, he will work the defence for 90 minutes, he has played 6,454 minutes in the league over the past two seasons (71.7 games out of 76), RvP is a tireless athlete and an all round nightmare for defenders.
The three behind him are Ronaldo on the left, Lampard in the centre and Pedro on the right. Pedro will play as an out and out right winger, terrorising defenders with his speed. He has been a major part of Barcelona’s tiki-taka team over the past four seasons, so his ability to pass in tight spaces and ghost past defenders for the return will be instrumental.
Lampard’s role will be similar to that he played for Chelsea in 2009-10, operating behind the striker, a season which harvested 22 league goals in 36 games. There is no one better at arriving late into the box to be at the end of cut-backs/crosses, and his ability to score from distance will be a key asset to this team. Lampard is also a great man to have to track back, break up attacks, then bomb forward and create 2 v 1 and 3 v 2 situations against the opposition.
Finally, and of course leaving the best until last, I have Cristiano Ronaldo on the left wing. Ronaldo’s role will be exactly as it has been for the past 6 seasons. He is always an outlet when the defence/midfield is breaking. His strength, speed and skill can allow him to barge/fly/ghost past defenders at his will, and given the space to run and shoot, we all know what Ronaldo can produce. 146 goals in 135 league games for Real Madrid since his arrival, he simply is unstoppable. In the air Ronaldo is one of the greatest there has ever been, and with Pedro and Lahm delivering pinpoint crosses to Ronaldo and RvP, there is no way to stop him arriving at the back post with towering headers above full backs and centre backs alike.
In the main this team will play their football on the ground, with quick, sharp passing and counter attacks after the Keane and Emerson axis has dispossessed the opposition. Ronaldo will be the focal point of the attack, the majority of counter attacks will look for Ronaldo to use his speed and strength to open the opposition up. With RvP running in behind and causing crater size holes in defence, Ronaldo will have many options: he can shoot, which generally ends up in a goal; he can slip in Pedro who will make his way in from the wing; and of course Frank will always be arriving late in the box for cutbacks, after all defenders have automatically gravitated towards Ronaldo.
Set pieces. RvP (left foot) and Lampard (right foot) will share corners and long range free-kicks. Ronaldo, Chiellini, Stam, RVP/Lamps (when not taking them) and Keane (remember Turin 21st April 1999) are all brilliant headers of the ball so this will be a real threat. These guys will also help defending set pieces and should do it well. With Manuel Neuer being a very commanding keeper and an exceptional shot stopper, this is a good combination. Short range free kicks (35 yards and closer) will in the beginning be taken by Ronaldo and Lampard from the left and RvP from the right hand side of the goal. I will leave Lamps and Ronaldo decide among themselves who takes them.
Finally, before I move on to Chillada’s team, I want to add that a real strength of my team is the different ways it can score goals, and how the different players complement each other by their differences from each other. The team had lightening speed in wide areas from Ronaldo and Pedro, who will look to exploit Chillada’s full backs (Ferreira and Lizarazu) neither of whom will be able to cope with the speed of my wingers. I have perhaps the best header of the ball in the world in Ronaldo (see goal vs. MUFC last March). In the middle of the park we have three players very comfortable with the ball at their feet who can dictate play when in possession. We can also break up attacks very quickly with Keane an Emerson, and go box-to-box in seconds with Ronaldo and Pedro. In defence we have great versatility with Lahm (LB/RB), Chiellini (CB/LB) and Gallas (RB/CB/LB).
Specific Match Tactics vs. Chillada
(NOTE: This is just a predicted lineup by Squeakybumtime and isn't the formation that Chillada has necessarily gone with)
Defensive Tactics
Limiting Ronaldinho and Nedved
Chillada has some great players in his team, but I think the key to keeping him at bay is to keep Ronaldinho and Nedved in check. While I don’t see either of the two as natural wingers, I think he will play them there and allow them to drift inside. This will suit me down to the ground. If and when they move inside, it will be like stepping into a piranha pool for them, with Keane and Emerson snapping at their heels, closing them down, and allowing them no space, tackling, harassing and dispossessing. And that’s only when they have the ball. If they drift inside to allow their full backs to bomb on, Keane and Emerson will track them, effectively man marking them, and it will allow me Lahm and Gallas vs. Ferreira and Lizarazu on the wings. I would be more than confident with that duel.
My preferred tactic is to allow them come inside on the ball, narrow the play, and with Stam, Chiellini, Keane and Emerson all in a small area, I expect there to be little or no room for Ronaldinho and Nedved to weave their magic, and as they say, too many cooks spoil the broth. Closing down quickly is the key, and Keane and Emerson have plenty experience doing this.
Stopping supply to Owen/Raul
While Owen and Raul are on their day are two of the greatest strikers in Europe over the past decade, they are more than containable. I think Raul may be played a bit deeper than Owen to supply and hold up the ball, and this will suit my congested midfield area perfectly. Keane, Emerson, Lampard, Ballack, Mendietta, Ronaldinho, Nedved, Raul...... it will just be a cattle mart, and this will seriously hinder Raul’s, Nedved’s and Ronaldinho’s creative abilities. With Owen, it’s simple. Jaap Stam is perhaps one of the fastest CB in the world over the past decade, and when you consider his strength vs. Owen’s, it would be like that of a cat compared to a Rhino: no contest. Stam has the speed, agility and mental awareness to nullify Owen. If somehow they do break free, Chiellini is a hard as nails centre half who loves a good tackle, and won’t be afraid to stick the boot in.
Ultimately my defensive tactics rely on closing Ronaldinho and Nedved down and winning the ball back with my players’ renowned tackling abilities and work-rate. Hopefully this will reduce the service that Owen and Raul will get, and turn into swift counter attacks at the other end.
Do not allow Ballack/Mendietta time on the ball
If these two are given time on the ball they can seriously hurt me. When we are defending, I will ask RvP to drop back a bit and Pedro to tuck in so we can pressurise these two. Lampard will also be used to close down Ballack specifically. Lampard has a work rate which is unquestionable. You don’t survive twelve seasons in Chelsea’s engine room unless you are willing to run yourself into the ground. Ballack doesn’t like to be hurried, he spent seasons at Leverkusen and Bayern with oceans of time on the ball, he will not be getting that here.
(NOTE: This is just a predicted lineup by Squeakybumtime and isn't the formation that Chillada has necessarily gone with)
Attacking Tactics
Electrifying speed
Chillada has two good centre halves in Terry and Pepe, but both are susceptible to moments of madness and rashness, so they will have to watch themselves with Ronaldo and Pedro bursting in from the wings and RvP making endless runs in behind them. I believe this defence is not the quickest, particularly Terry, and will be looking to exploit this and him with creative balls from Lampard and RvP and runs from the wings by Ronaldo and Pedro.
I will also be looking for Ronaldo and Pedro to take on the full backs at every opportunity, as I think these areas are the weakest point of Chillada’s team. Ferreira will have no chance of stopping his fellow Portuguese Ronaldo, and should Chillada wish to double up on him it will allow more space in the centre for the deadly RvP and Lampard with his trademark perfectly timed runs into the box. Pedro will keep Lizarazu well occupied on the other wing, with his ability to dribble on his left foot then suddenly turn onto his right (stronger) foot.
Counter attacking
This counter-attacking element is a key factor I want with the speed of Ronaldo and Pedro, and the running power of Lampard and Keane from midfield. I also believe it’s a great way to hurt Chillada, his lack of real pace in defence and centre midfield. I anticipate Chillada will make a key role being to attempt to shackle Ronaldo so I want to really test him to the limit, almost encourage him into choosing to stick to Ronaldo and have to watch on helplessly as runners power forward in Lampard and Keane and Lahm from the opposite full back position.
My midfield pairing of Keane and Emerson are absolutely perfect as the starting point of counter attacks. They love to get stuck in, win hard fought balls and set up counter attacks with quick and accurate passing. Their role in the counter attacks will be key, while they begin the attack and set up my speed merchants, they must then keep at least one of them back to defend any potential opposing counter attack. I would expect Keane to do most of the marauding runs forward of the two, but both have the licence to go forward and are intelligent enough to realise if one commits the other stays home to mind the house. A perfect complimentary duo in any team I feel.
RvP: a deadly marksman
RvP is one of the few strikers in the world who can play in a variety of position and a variety of styles. He prefers to be the man up top, playing on the shoulder of the last defender and running in behind is an attribute which he doesn’t get enough praise for, but he is superb at it. He can also drop deep and link the midfield and attack. He can defend set pieces, he can pick out a 50 yard pass at ease, he is strong, quick, and one of the best finishers in the world (see Arsenal vs. Charlton 2006, Arsenal vs. Everton 2011 and MUFC vs. Aston Villa 2013). In my team he will of course be the lone striker, but with Ronaldo and Pedro being so attacking he will at times drop deep, play as a target man and use his creative abilities to help Ronaldo and Pedro.
Ronaldo
Regularly considered the greatest player in the world at the minute (Messi excepted of course), Ronaldo has scored over a goal a game for Real Madrid since he joined them in summer 2010 (201 in 199). I think he can profit from the creativity of RvP and Lampard, crosses from Lahm and Pedro on the right, and his own ability to take a match by the scruff of the neck and take on defenders and score from all angles and distances. Another potential key for Ronaldo is directly facing Ferreira. Ferreira is smaller, weaker, slower compared to Ronaldo. I am expecting a great amount of success, and in Ronaldo I have a match winner that Ferreira will not be able to shackle, even if he had a twin brother helping him.
In Summary
I’m not entirely sure how he will arrange his formation with the players at his disposal, but I think there is a fair chance he’s going to play a variation of 4-4-2, and look to get the ball to Ronaldinho and Nedved. To take care of that, I’ve outlined that I will want the middle area of the field to be quite congested, break up the play with Kane and Emerson’s combative abilities and shift the ball fast on the counter to the wings and exploit his lack of pace at full back. In Ronaldo I have one of the most potent players of all time, and he holds the key to this tie.
