Post by Kieran on Jan 20, 2013 1:45:12 GMT
Hello, welcome to the Premier League 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/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=2 ). 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 Premier League - so what they did in other leagues, in cup competitions or on the international stage 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.
Good luck to berbacat and Demi!
berbacat- Formation/bio/tactics
Demi- 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 Premier League - so what they did in other leagues, in cup competitions or on the international stage 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.
Good luck to berbacat and Demi!
berbacat- Formation/bio/tactics
GK: David Seaman
• Signed for a British record breaking 1.3million for a GK, Seaman was the cornerstone of an Arsenal back five which kept 23 clean sheets and conceded just 18 goals en route to 3 league championships, 4 FA Cups and the European Cup Winners Cup in 1994
• Seaman's qualities were manifold - he had sharp reflexes, excellent positional sense, great judgement from crosses and bags of courage. Despite suffering his fair share of injuries Seaman never let his stellar career wane. Hampered by a broken rib, the Yorkshireman had pain-killing injections before keeping out a stellar cast of Zola, Brolin and Asprilla in the 1994 backs-to-the-wall win over Parma, and in 2003 – Paul Peschisolido had an open-goal, goal bound header clawed away from under the crossbar for Seaman to preserve a 1-0 win to reach the FA Cup final.
Central Def: Tony Adams
• Nicknamed “My colossus” my George Graham, “Professor of Defence” by Arsene Wenger, Tony Adams was the only player with League Titles in 3 different decades: 88/89, 90/91 (losing once), 97/98 and 01/02
• His timing of his tackles, reading of the game and aerial ability, adding to his leadership, physical & mental resilience was the key strengths of his side as he perfected the offside trap under Arsene Wenger’s leadership.
• Showed his adaptability under Arsene Wenger: Curbed alcoholic habits and expanded his game to initiate attacks from deep and getting forward when he could. The proof – His top right corner finish on the final day of the 97/87 season after taking a through ball from Steve Bould.
Left Back: Evra
• Established as a quick, committed, attack-minded fullback, capable of playing left-midfield.
• Enjoyed League triumphs in 06/07, and the League/UCL double in 07/08, contributing to the balance of United’s wing play. Broke the Premier League Clean Sheet Record in 2008/09 enroute to the 08/09 League title, showing his defensive consistency.
• Adapted to the modern game with age by being more efficient at set pieces and developing a scoring touch: 1 goal + 2 assists in 10/11, 6 assists in 11/12, 4 goals in the League so far (12/13) and 5 assists.
Right Back: Berg
• Part of the defense that won the League Title (94/95) under Kenny Dalglish. His versatility as a center-back or a right back, and his consistent performances earned him a record breaking 5 million pound move to Manchester United and won 2 more league titles with them as well as the famous Treble in 1999.
• Also capable of exceptional performances, despite facing competition from Ronnie Johnsen, most notably the quarter final against Inter Milan during the Champions League quarter finals. Part of the defence that restricted an attacking force of Baggio, Ronaldo and Zamorano & Co. to one goal over 2 legs.
• Capable of delivering with age, by delivering quality with experience: Helped Blackburn return to the Premier League under Graeme Souness and won the League cup as captain.
Center Back: Leboeuf
• Intelligent and composed, Leboeuf won both the World Cup and European Championship while a Chelsea player, and was a regular scorer of penalties and long-range goals during his time with the club which lasted 204 games over five years, forging an effective partnership with Marcel Desailly.
• A highly cultured centre back Leboeuf was noted for his long range passing ability and also for his consistent penalty-taking throughout his career. He took more than 20 penalties for Chelsea, missing just 3 times, notably salvaging a draw with a nerveless last minute penalty against Oxford and Leicester in the 117th minute of an FA Cup tie, which Chelsea won that season.
• Taking over the role of sweeper, Leboeuf's early performances showed that he was a genuine master of the art. A superb reader of the game, he was able to instantly turn defence into attack when he stepped out with the ball at his feet. He also possessed wonderful passing ability and would regularly spray 80-yard passes to the feet of his front men. Also adapted quickly when switched to a convenient centre half, complementing the rugged tackling of Steve Clarke.
Defensive Mid: Mascherano
• "He has a cool mind on the pitch. He is analysing and thinking about the game in each moment.” – Xabi Alonso
• Impressed for West Ham against Tottenham which prompted Rafa Benitez to fly to London to meet him spending four hours at Canary Wharf talking with Mascherano, using stones to illustrate the role he envisaged him playing in the Liverpool team.
• Despite the presence of Momo Sissoko, Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso, he quickly established himself as a regular in the Liverpool midfield. Mascherano made his debut against Sheffield United on February 24, 2007 and three months later won fans' man of the match for his performance in the Champions League final against AC Milan.
Left Wing: Kewell
• An exceptional dribbler on the wing, also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder and as a second striker, he is often regarded within the media as "Australia's finest football export", despite his career being blighted with injury.
• He was remembered for the various types of goals he scored in his different roles at Leeds United: the deft flick with the outside of the boot against Sheffield Wednesday, the 35-yard screamer against Aston Villa, as well as the thunderous half-volley at Highbury.
• Began his Liverpool career well, scoring 9 goals in the first half of the 03/04 season, and featured in the Champions League triumph against AC Milan in 2005.
Right Wing: Cole (Joe)
• Playing in a mould similar to former England favourite Paul Gascoigne, he progressed through the West Ham ranks and was voted “Hammer of the Year” before West Ham were relegated in 2003.
• Cole took advantage of injuries to wingers Damien Duff and Arjen Robben to become a regular member of Chelsea's Premier League title winning team in 2004–05. His form saw him hit a run of goals towards the end of the season, and his goal against Norwich City (blasted in from 20 yards off his weaker left foot) was voted in the top ten goals of the 2004–05 Premier League season
• Throughout the highlights of his career, Joe Cole was known for his creativity as an attacking midfielder at West Ham, as well as a forward while playing wide left in Chelsea’s 4-3-3, scoring 17 goals in the his first 3 seasons under Jose Mourinho.
• Injuries hampered his potential during the 06/07 season, and after spells as Liverpool and Lille, he is reinventing himself as a winger at West Ham with an added dimension of possessing a scoring touch, contributing 2 assists and a goal in his last 3 games.
Center Mid: Roberto di Matteo
• His passing ability and accurate long-distance shooting saw him become one of the driving forces of Chelsea's resurgence in the late 1990s.
• He contributed nine goals in his first season, including long-range efforts against both Tottenham Hotspur and Wimbledon.
Forward: Yorke
• Needing a replacement for Eric Cantona, Dwight Yorke was snapped up for a record 12.6 million pounds from Aston Villa.
• Yorke's first season was unbelievable,a total of 29 goals and electric form was invaluable in clinching the historic United treble.Not only did he score but he scored vital goals, sometimes to clinch one-nils (Charlton Derby ,Boro) or crucially against Liverpool in the FA Cup and Juventus and Barcelona in Europe.
• As a second striker, Yorke had an immaculate first touch and great agility to complement his goal scoring ability. His off the ball movement also complemented the “out-and-out” striker of Andy Cole, Solskjaer and Sheringham which highlighted his cooperative ability. He racked up 24 assists, the same that year as World Player of The Year Runner up, David Beckham.
• His partnership up front with Andy Cole has been phenomenal, the best in Europe in 1999 scoring 53 goals between the two of them. In one of the game’s greatest Arena’s Yorke scored twice and set up Cole in a glorious fluid demonstration of 'Sexy Football' in a 3-3 draw against Barcelona.
• His highlights included a Hat Trick Away at Leicester in the League, the equalizer at Home to Liverpool in the memorable late 2-1 FA Cup victory. His double against Chelsea in the Quarter Final (including a glorious 20 yard chip) Both goals against Inter Milan in the CL Quarter Final 1st Leg and the crucial Semi Final away goal equalizer against Juve in Turin.
Forward: Wright
• Wright enjoyed success with London clubs Crystal Palace and Arsenal, spending six years with the former and seven years with the latter. With Arsenal he has lifted the Premier League title and both major domestic trophies, and the European Cup Winners Cup.
• The Arsenal legend always found a way to find the net, whether it required a sumptuous 30-yard chip or a toe-poke from two yards. Wright's repertoire of goals made him one of the finest - and most explosive - strikers to grace the English game.
• After storming to the Golden Boot in his debut season surrounded by the flair of Anders Limpar and Paul Merson, Wright displayed his ability to adapt to change. The Gunners were a side with the meanest defense in the land that prompted the era of ‘One-Nil to the Arsenal” and Wright was often responsible for supplying the clinical touch in games.
• Wright’s scoring touch brought him a domestic Cup Double in 1993, and a European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph in 1994. He also showed the ability to create partnerships, as shown when Dennis Bergkamp arrived at the summer of 1995. 2 seasons and a combined 62 goals later, the Wright-Bergkamp partnership also contributed to a Premier League triumph in the 97-98 season.
• Signed for a British record breaking 1.3million for a GK, Seaman was the cornerstone of an Arsenal back five which kept 23 clean sheets and conceded just 18 goals en route to 3 league championships, 4 FA Cups and the European Cup Winners Cup in 1994
• Seaman's qualities were manifold - he had sharp reflexes, excellent positional sense, great judgement from crosses and bags of courage. Despite suffering his fair share of injuries Seaman never let his stellar career wane. Hampered by a broken rib, the Yorkshireman had pain-killing injections before keeping out a stellar cast of Zola, Brolin and Asprilla in the 1994 backs-to-the-wall win over Parma, and in 2003 – Paul Peschisolido had an open-goal, goal bound header clawed away from under the crossbar for Seaman to preserve a 1-0 win to reach the FA Cup final.
Central Def: Tony Adams
• Nicknamed “My colossus” my George Graham, “Professor of Defence” by Arsene Wenger, Tony Adams was the only player with League Titles in 3 different decades: 88/89, 90/91 (losing once), 97/98 and 01/02
• His timing of his tackles, reading of the game and aerial ability, adding to his leadership, physical & mental resilience was the key strengths of his side as he perfected the offside trap under Arsene Wenger’s leadership.
• Showed his adaptability under Arsene Wenger: Curbed alcoholic habits and expanded his game to initiate attacks from deep and getting forward when he could. The proof – His top right corner finish on the final day of the 97/87 season after taking a through ball from Steve Bould.
Left Back: Evra
• Established as a quick, committed, attack-minded fullback, capable of playing left-midfield.
• Enjoyed League triumphs in 06/07, and the League/UCL double in 07/08, contributing to the balance of United’s wing play. Broke the Premier League Clean Sheet Record in 2008/09 enroute to the 08/09 League title, showing his defensive consistency.
• Adapted to the modern game with age by being more efficient at set pieces and developing a scoring touch: 1 goal + 2 assists in 10/11, 6 assists in 11/12, 4 goals in the League so far (12/13) and 5 assists.
Right Back: Berg
• Part of the defense that won the League Title (94/95) under Kenny Dalglish. His versatility as a center-back or a right back, and his consistent performances earned him a record breaking 5 million pound move to Manchester United and won 2 more league titles with them as well as the famous Treble in 1999.
• Also capable of exceptional performances, despite facing competition from Ronnie Johnsen, most notably the quarter final against Inter Milan during the Champions League quarter finals. Part of the defence that restricted an attacking force of Baggio, Ronaldo and Zamorano & Co. to one goal over 2 legs.
• Capable of delivering with age, by delivering quality with experience: Helped Blackburn return to the Premier League under Graeme Souness and won the League cup as captain.
Center Back: Leboeuf
• Intelligent and composed, Leboeuf won both the World Cup and European Championship while a Chelsea player, and was a regular scorer of penalties and long-range goals during his time with the club which lasted 204 games over five years, forging an effective partnership with Marcel Desailly.
• A highly cultured centre back Leboeuf was noted for his long range passing ability and also for his consistent penalty-taking throughout his career. He took more than 20 penalties for Chelsea, missing just 3 times, notably salvaging a draw with a nerveless last minute penalty against Oxford and Leicester in the 117th minute of an FA Cup tie, which Chelsea won that season.
• Taking over the role of sweeper, Leboeuf's early performances showed that he was a genuine master of the art. A superb reader of the game, he was able to instantly turn defence into attack when he stepped out with the ball at his feet. He also possessed wonderful passing ability and would regularly spray 80-yard passes to the feet of his front men. Also adapted quickly when switched to a convenient centre half, complementing the rugged tackling of Steve Clarke.
Defensive Mid: Mascherano
• "He has a cool mind on the pitch. He is analysing and thinking about the game in each moment.” – Xabi Alonso
• Impressed for West Ham against Tottenham which prompted Rafa Benitez to fly to London to meet him spending four hours at Canary Wharf talking with Mascherano, using stones to illustrate the role he envisaged him playing in the Liverpool team.
• Despite the presence of Momo Sissoko, Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso, he quickly established himself as a regular in the Liverpool midfield. Mascherano made his debut against Sheffield United on February 24, 2007 and three months later won fans' man of the match for his performance in the Champions League final against AC Milan.
Left Wing: Kewell
• An exceptional dribbler on the wing, also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder and as a second striker, he is often regarded within the media as "Australia's finest football export", despite his career being blighted with injury.
• He was remembered for the various types of goals he scored in his different roles at Leeds United: the deft flick with the outside of the boot against Sheffield Wednesday, the 35-yard screamer against Aston Villa, as well as the thunderous half-volley at Highbury.
• Began his Liverpool career well, scoring 9 goals in the first half of the 03/04 season, and featured in the Champions League triumph against AC Milan in 2005.
Right Wing: Cole (Joe)
• Playing in a mould similar to former England favourite Paul Gascoigne, he progressed through the West Ham ranks and was voted “Hammer of the Year” before West Ham were relegated in 2003.
• Cole took advantage of injuries to wingers Damien Duff and Arjen Robben to become a regular member of Chelsea's Premier League title winning team in 2004–05. His form saw him hit a run of goals towards the end of the season, and his goal against Norwich City (blasted in from 20 yards off his weaker left foot) was voted in the top ten goals of the 2004–05 Premier League season
• Throughout the highlights of his career, Joe Cole was known for his creativity as an attacking midfielder at West Ham, as well as a forward while playing wide left in Chelsea’s 4-3-3, scoring 17 goals in the his first 3 seasons under Jose Mourinho.
• Injuries hampered his potential during the 06/07 season, and after spells as Liverpool and Lille, he is reinventing himself as a winger at West Ham with an added dimension of possessing a scoring touch, contributing 2 assists and a goal in his last 3 games.
Center Mid: Roberto di Matteo
• His passing ability and accurate long-distance shooting saw him become one of the driving forces of Chelsea's resurgence in the late 1990s.
• He contributed nine goals in his first season, including long-range efforts against both Tottenham Hotspur and Wimbledon.
Forward: Yorke
• Needing a replacement for Eric Cantona, Dwight Yorke was snapped up for a record 12.6 million pounds from Aston Villa.
• Yorke's first season was unbelievable,a total of 29 goals and electric form was invaluable in clinching the historic United treble.Not only did he score but he scored vital goals, sometimes to clinch one-nils (Charlton Derby ,Boro) or crucially against Liverpool in the FA Cup and Juventus and Barcelona in Europe.
• As a second striker, Yorke had an immaculate first touch and great agility to complement his goal scoring ability. His off the ball movement also complemented the “out-and-out” striker of Andy Cole, Solskjaer and Sheringham which highlighted his cooperative ability. He racked up 24 assists, the same that year as World Player of The Year Runner up, David Beckham.
• His partnership up front with Andy Cole has been phenomenal, the best in Europe in 1999 scoring 53 goals between the two of them. In one of the game’s greatest Arena’s Yorke scored twice and set up Cole in a glorious fluid demonstration of 'Sexy Football' in a 3-3 draw against Barcelona.
• His highlights included a Hat Trick Away at Leicester in the League, the equalizer at Home to Liverpool in the memorable late 2-1 FA Cup victory. His double against Chelsea in the Quarter Final (including a glorious 20 yard chip) Both goals against Inter Milan in the CL Quarter Final 1st Leg and the crucial Semi Final away goal equalizer against Juve in Turin.
Forward: Wright
• Wright enjoyed success with London clubs Crystal Palace and Arsenal, spending six years with the former and seven years with the latter. With Arsenal he has lifted the Premier League title and both major domestic trophies, and the European Cup Winners Cup.
• The Arsenal legend always found a way to find the net, whether it required a sumptuous 30-yard chip or a toe-poke from two yards. Wright's repertoire of goals made him one of the finest - and most explosive - strikers to grace the English game.
• After storming to the Golden Boot in his debut season surrounded by the flair of Anders Limpar and Paul Merson, Wright displayed his ability to adapt to change. The Gunners were a side with the meanest defense in the land that prompted the era of ‘One-Nil to the Arsenal” and Wright was often responsible for supplying the clinical touch in games.
• Wright’s scoring touch brought him a domestic Cup Double in 1993, and a European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph in 1994. He also showed the ability to create partnerships, as shown when Dennis Bergkamp arrived at the summer of 1995. 2 seasons and a combined 62 goals later, the Wright-Bergkamp partnership also contributed to a Premier League triumph in the 97-98 season.
Tactics:
Offense
• Wing Play/Counterattack: The focus will be on my wingers to initiate crosses while the fullbacks initiate overlapping runs; If a cross comes from one side, the opposite winger can naturally come in as a late striker. Wright will be the initial targetman while Yorke and my “opposite winger” can support the attack with late runs.
o Jaaskelainen’s known for being weak at catching crosses, which isn’t helped by Distin + Agger in defense as neither are true leaders. Luis Garcia and Darren Anderton are not known for defensive discipline: Will attack with Evra and Berg joining Joe Cole and Kewell with overlapping runs.
o Out of possession, Cole and Kewell will be instructed to press Johnsen and Lauren really high up the pitch respectively. If we win possession back from Demi’s team, they will be the first outlets for a counterattack.
• Avoiding the center midfield: Roberto di Matteo and/or Frank le Bouef will be responsible for initiating attacks by spreading long balls either directly to the front 2, or the wingers out wide. With only Rooney and Fabregas in attack, they cannot stop these initial attacks.
Defense
• Rooney: Rooney is not an out and out striker, so if Fabregas initiates play from midfield, Rooney will not have the pace to get past le Bouef or Adams, especially when both centerbacks’ strengths are intelligent interceptions and the offside trap.
• Fabregas: Mascherano will be in charge of monitoring the movement of Fabregas. While not tracking past the half way line, Mascherano will do what he does best: pressuring Fabregas so that he doesn’t find Rooney, especially on counterattacks.
• Anderton and Luis Garcia: While Luis Garcia was used as a winger at Liverpool, he tended to get into striking positions, while Anderton was a wide midfielder that was fond of cutting inside. In order to counter this threat, I will order the fullback on the same side as Anderton to force him wide for crosses while Luis Garcia will be marked via deep positioning of my other fullback.
• Michael Essien: Essien is famous for his box-to-box runs as well as his shooting ability from distance. If Essien advances, I will have di Matteo temporarily anticipate long shots but not commit to any tackles. If I dispossess Essien I will even have the opportunity to counterattack.
Offense
• Wing Play/Counterattack: The focus will be on my wingers to initiate crosses while the fullbacks initiate overlapping runs; If a cross comes from one side, the opposite winger can naturally come in as a late striker. Wright will be the initial targetman while Yorke and my “opposite winger” can support the attack with late runs.
o Jaaskelainen’s known for being weak at catching crosses, which isn’t helped by Distin + Agger in defense as neither are true leaders. Luis Garcia and Darren Anderton are not known for defensive discipline: Will attack with Evra and Berg joining Joe Cole and Kewell with overlapping runs.
o Out of possession, Cole and Kewell will be instructed to press Johnsen and Lauren really high up the pitch respectively. If we win possession back from Demi’s team, they will be the first outlets for a counterattack.
• Avoiding the center midfield: Roberto di Matteo and/or Frank le Bouef will be responsible for initiating attacks by spreading long balls either directly to the front 2, or the wingers out wide. With only Rooney and Fabregas in attack, they cannot stop these initial attacks.
Defense
• Rooney: Rooney is not an out and out striker, so if Fabregas initiates play from midfield, Rooney will not have the pace to get past le Bouef or Adams, especially when both centerbacks’ strengths are intelligent interceptions and the offside trap.
• Fabregas: Mascherano will be in charge of monitoring the movement of Fabregas. While not tracking past the half way line, Mascherano will do what he does best: pressuring Fabregas so that he doesn’t find Rooney, especially on counterattacks.
• Anderton and Luis Garcia: While Luis Garcia was used as a winger at Liverpool, he tended to get into striking positions, while Anderton was a wide midfielder that was fond of cutting inside. In order to counter this threat, I will order the fullback on the same side as Anderton to force him wide for crosses while Luis Garcia will be marked via deep positioning of my other fullback.
• Michael Essien: Essien is famous for his box-to-box runs as well as his shooting ability from distance. If Essien advances, I will have di Matteo temporarily anticipate long shots but not commit to any tackles. If I dispossess Essien I will even have the opportunity to counterattack.
Demi- Formation/bio/tactics
Jussi Jaaskelainen - A Premier league stalwart for Bolton. He signed when they got promoted to the Premier league, and aside from a cruciate ligament injury which ruled him out for a while, he has been established as the clear no.1 between the sticks for the best part of 10 seasons. Jaaskelainen was instrumental in helping Bolton secure a UEFA Cup spot for only the second time in their history. This feat lead to him being nominated for and winning Bolton's "Player of the Year Award" and also the "Players' Player of the Year Award" during that 2006-07 season. It may be notable that Bolton finally got relegated at the end of last season, when Jussi's talents were on the wane and he was ousted by Bogdan. Though some may also put that down to the defence he had in front of him(*cough cough* "Gary Cahill") Although, a current contract with West Ham, allowing Jussi to link up with his former boss Sam Allardyce, has helped him to revive his career and produce a glimpse of his best form during his Bolton days.
Denis Irwin - Not a lot to say about Irwin that hasn't been already been said by pundits, journos and fans alike. I'll let his medals do the talking. 7 Premier league titles, 3 FA cups, 1 League cup, 4 Charity shields, 1 Champions league, 1 Cup Winners cup, 1 European Super cup and 1 Intercontinental cup. Irwin was without doubt one of if not the finest LB the Premier League has seen. Denis Irwin also made the overall team of the decade(between 1992/3 to 2001/2) in the PL 10 seasons awards. Dennis Irwin was also included in the PFA Team of the year twice in the Premier League, and a further two times in the lower division when playing for Wolves. Irwin could also play at RB when needed and hardly ever let Man United down when asked to fill in their. Another string to Irwin's bow was his ability from dead ball situations. He took and scored numerous free kicks and penalties during his long Manchester United tenure which amounted to a very respectable 325 Premier league appearances. Sir Alex Ferguson once regarded Irwin, as his pound for pound, greatest signing. A ringing endorsement if ever there was one.
Daniel Agger - Probably one of the most technically gifted centre backs in the Premier League over the last few seasons. Agger has pretty much all you can ask for in a Central defender. If there was a weakness, it would be Agger's tendency to get injured, which says alot about his football ability. Daniel Agger strengthens any side he plays in, and is also his countries captain which is a measure of just how good he is. Agger has formed some solid partnerships at Liverpool, with previous players like Carragher and Hyppia and now with Skrtel. Daniel Agger won the League cup with Liverpool and was also a Champions league finalist all while playing in the Premier league. Agger has racked up almost 150 Premier league appearances, and at the time of writing, has just 13 yellow cards to his name. An impressive disciplinary record, aided by him only ever being sent off once in the Premier League. Lastly, he's also a reliable threat from set pieces, shown by his tally of 7 Premier league goals in his career so far.
Sylvain Distin - Distin started his Premier league career on Loan with Newcastle, and has since then gone on to play for several premier league clubs, most notably Manchester City for whom he's made over 100 Premier league appearances for. Distin has been a mainstay in the Premier league, so much so that he has gone on to eclipse George Boateng's record of most Premier league appearances by a Foreign outfield player. He now has just under 400 PL apps. When asked what his secret was, Distin said: “I don’t get injured and that’s not because I just cross my fingers and hope for the best when I get out onto the pitch,”. “It’s because of the hard work I put in. I’m first to get to training and last to leave. I am a physical player, more than a technical one, and so I work on my strengths, my physique, to stay in peak athletic condition.” In terms of trophies, Distin had his best spell at Portsmouth where under Harry Redknapp, they lifted the FA cup. A strongly built and very pacey CB. Distin can now be seen helping Everton in their push for a Champions league place during the current 2012/13 PL season.
Lauren - Lauren was a very solid Right back for Arsenal. Dominant in his defensive duties, whilst also being a decent attacking outlet when going forward. In total, Lauren made 186 Premier league appearances and scored 8 times. A healthy figure for a defender. Most notably, Lauren was part of Arsenal Invincibles' season. An incredible feat, of which has yet to be matched in the Premier league. Lauren played 32 of his side's historic 38 games during that 03-04 season, showing just what a vital cog he was to their unbeaten run. He was included in the PFA team of the year for his role in that season too. Aside from that season, Lauren also won the Premier league in the 2001-02 season, along with 4 FA cups(one with Portsmouth) and 2 Charity shields with Arsenal.
Michael Essien - Essien is probably one of the best box to box midfielders the Premier League has ever seen. He's made over 150 Premier league appearances, scoring 19 goals in the process. A true power house; he had stamina, aggression, could tackle, and although not prolific, had a great eye for goal. A testament to this was when Essien won the award for Chelsea's goal of the season on 2 separate occasions. Essien was great at driving his team forward, due to his relentless work-rate, which he could be seen doing on numerous occasions for Chelsea. Unfortunately injuries got the better of him late in his career, and he's been a peripheral figure for Chelsea in the last season and a bit, leading to him going out on loan. At the peak of his career, Essien was a monster. This is shown by his trophy collection. 2 Premier league titles, 4 FA cups, 1 League cup, 1 Charity shield and a Champions league winners medal. Essien formed dominant partnerships at the heart of Chelsea's midfield with the likes of Lampard, Ballack and Makelele, showing how he could adapt to any situation, and with any style. Essien was also the winner of Chelsea's player of the year award in 2007.
Emmanuel Petit - Arsenal won their first Premier League title in the 1997-98 season. This was the year they bought Petit, who went on to be a vital part of that title winning squad. Petit demonstrated tidy passing and tackling throughout his Arsenal career, and proved to be a cultured midfielder, who was the ideal partner for Patrick Vieira at the heart of Arsenals midfield. Petit was a great long passer and usually started all of Arsenal's attacks from deep. He had great positional awareness, due to previously being a CB in France. Effective in breaking up attacks, and also in starting them. Along with the Premier league title, Petit also won the FA cup in his 1st season. Even though Petit and Arsenal were trophyless in his 2nd season, his efforts didn't go unnoticed, as he earned a place in the PFA team of the year. He was also an underrated deliverer of set pieces. An influential part of my midfield who, due to being a great reader of the game with positional sense to match anyone, will also cover for fellow team mates when they venture forward.
Luis Garcia - A flair player. Luis Garcia made 77 Premier league appearances for Liverpool, scoring 18 goals. He was by no means one of the league's best wingers, due to being as equally brilliant as he was inconsistent. However he was capable of lots of magical moments, and scored special goals throughout his premier league stay. The most notable goal he scored in the league would probably be the winner against Everton in a Merseyside derby in 2005. He had most things you could ask for in a winger; a great eye for goal, quick feet, versatilty, clever movement and an eye for a pass too. Overall, during his Liverpool career, although never winning a title, he was instrumental in Europe scoring vital goals, helping Liverpool to win the Champions league in 2005 and be runners up in the 06-07 season. Garcia also won the FA cup, Charity shield and UEFA Super cup with Liverpool. Furthermore, he was included in the UEFA team of the year in 2005, for his vital contribution in Liverpool's european run.
Darren Anderton - The Right winger in my team. Darren Anderton made over 250 Premier league appearances for Spurs, scoring 20 goals. Anderton possessed an amazing right foot and was the creator of many goals for Tottenham in the league. He provided countless assists, not just from his passing but also his expert dead balls. Anderton could play in central midfield too, and was good at tracking back and helping out defensively. A real team player who won the League cup with Spurs in 1999. A great playmaking footballer, who showed great link up with team-mates such as Barmby and Sheringham during his Spurs career too. Unfortunately, Anderton's time at Spurs was hampered with injury and he acquired the nickname, 'Sicknote.' However this shouldn't detract from the fact that when fit, he was influential in many Spurs victories.
Cesc Fabregas - Cesc Fabregas arrived in the Premier league as a highly rated teenager. It's fair to say that after he left the Premier league for pastures new, he was a man. A man who had developed into one of the best, if not the best attacking midfielder, the like of which the Premier league had rarely seen before. Fabregas has an incredible passing game, and was the orchestrator, general, chief creator, in many of Arsenals' goals. Fabregas found space effortlessly throughout the pitch, and despite not having searing pace, his vision and movement was enough to leave opposition players trailing in his wake. As time went by, he developed an increasing knack for scoring goals, and by the end of his career, Fabregas had scored 36 goals in just over 200 Premier league games, whilst providing countless assists. He was made Arsenal captain after the departure of Vieira in 2008 and this only increased his hunger to do more. It eventually resulted in his most prolific season for Arsenal in the Premier league to date. It came during 2009-10 when he finished on 15 goals and 15 assists. He enhanced his reputation later on that summer where he was to go the World cup finals with Spain and assist Iniesta's goal in the final against Holland that won them the World Cup. Fabregas had now truly announced himself to the world as an outstanding midfielder playing at the highest level. Despite only having an FA cup medal to show for his talents, Fabregas is still regarded as one of the best midfielders to grace the Premier league. He might not have a great trophy collection, but his individual honours say just a little something about how good he really was. While at Arsenal, Fabregas boasted a stunning collection of individual awards; the Golden boy award in 2006, PFA young player of the year award in 07-08, UEFA team of the year in 2006 and 2008, PL player of the month in January and September 2007, 2 PFA teams of the year in 07-08 and 09-10 and also the UEFA Euro Team of the tournament in 2008.
Wayne Rooney - Rooney will lead the line for my team. His goals and all round play are amongst the best the Premier league has seen. Rooney's ratio so far stands at 152 goals in 332 Premier league appearances, which is an insane record not bettered by many in the Premier league era. at 1 goal in just over every 2 games. Rooney is far from just a goal scorer, which makes him the complete footballer. Goalscoring stats aren't a true measure of how good Rooney is though, because what he does on the pitch can't be judged on goal tallies alone. He's more than just your everyday run of the mill penalty box striker. He's a marauding, game changing, free spirited and during his early years, bull dozing footballer, capable of taking the game by the scruff of the neck and is usually the attacking hub of any side he plays in. He can provide assists, as shown by his tally of 83 in the PL so far, whilst playing for both United and Everton. Wayne Rooney is powerful on the ball, and although he's lost the pace that made him so devastating as a teenager, he still has the guile and movement to go past players unnoticed, which makes him such a threat outside the box. Rooney is also one of the most unselfish elite players you'll see. He's been deployed out on to the wing too, to accomodate the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez. He's great at his defensive duties, which combined with his goalscoring, and goal creating, makes him the ultimate footballer, unrivalled by many in the Premier league or in Europe. At Manchester United, he has won everything there is to win in the game. 4 Premier league titles, 2 League cups, 3 Charity shields and 1 Fifa Club World cup. His individual honours make for great reading too; 5 PL player of the month awards, 3 PFA team of the years, Player of the year in 09-10, England player of the year twice, Fifa/FIFPro World XI, PFA young player of the year twice, Goal of the season on 3 occasions, UEFA Euro 2004 Team of the tournament, and winning best goal in the Premier league 20 seasons awards, for his sublime bicycle kick winner in the derby against Manchester City.
Denis Irwin - Not a lot to say about Irwin that hasn't been already been said by pundits, journos and fans alike. I'll let his medals do the talking. 7 Premier league titles, 3 FA cups, 1 League cup, 4 Charity shields, 1 Champions league, 1 Cup Winners cup, 1 European Super cup and 1 Intercontinental cup. Irwin was without doubt one of if not the finest LB the Premier League has seen. Denis Irwin also made the overall team of the decade(between 1992/3 to 2001/2) in the PL 10 seasons awards. Dennis Irwin was also included in the PFA Team of the year twice in the Premier League, and a further two times in the lower division when playing for Wolves. Irwin could also play at RB when needed and hardly ever let Man United down when asked to fill in their. Another string to Irwin's bow was his ability from dead ball situations. He took and scored numerous free kicks and penalties during his long Manchester United tenure which amounted to a very respectable 325 Premier league appearances. Sir Alex Ferguson once regarded Irwin, as his pound for pound, greatest signing. A ringing endorsement if ever there was one.
Daniel Agger - Probably one of the most technically gifted centre backs in the Premier League over the last few seasons. Agger has pretty much all you can ask for in a Central defender. If there was a weakness, it would be Agger's tendency to get injured, which says alot about his football ability. Daniel Agger strengthens any side he plays in, and is also his countries captain which is a measure of just how good he is. Agger has formed some solid partnerships at Liverpool, with previous players like Carragher and Hyppia and now with Skrtel. Daniel Agger won the League cup with Liverpool and was also a Champions league finalist all while playing in the Premier league. Agger has racked up almost 150 Premier league appearances, and at the time of writing, has just 13 yellow cards to his name. An impressive disciplinary record, aided by him only ever being sent off once in the Premier League. Lastly, he's also a reliable threat from set pieces, shown by his tally of 7 Premier league goals in his career so far.
Sylvain Distin - Distin started his Premier league career on Loan with Newcastle, and has since then gone on to play for several premier league clubs, most notably Manchester City for whom he's made over 100 Premier league appearances for. Distin has been a mainstay in the Premier league, so much so that he has gone on to eclipse George Boateng's record of most Premier league appearances by a Foreign outfield player. He now has just under 400 PL apps. When asked what his secret was, Distin said: “I don’t get injured and that’s not because I just cross my fingers and hope for the best when I get out onto the pitch,”. “It’s because of the hard work I put in. I’m first to get to training and last to leave. I am a physical player, more than a technical one, and so I work on my strengths, my physique, to stay in peak athletic condition.” In terms of trophies, Distin had his best spell at Portsmouth where under Harry Redknapp, they lifted the FA cup. A strongly built and very pacey CB. Distin can now be seen helping Everton in their push for a Champions league place during the current 2012/13 PL season.
Lauren - Lauren was a very solid Right back for Arsenal. Dominant in his defensive duties, whilst also being a decent attacking outlet when going forward. In total, Lauren made 186 Premier league appearances and scored 8 times. A healthy figure for a defender. Most notably, Lauren was part of Arsenal Invincibles' season. An incredible feat, of which has yet to be matched in the Premier league. Lauren played 32 of his side's historic 38 games during that 03-04 season, showing just what a vital cog he was to their unbeaten run. He was included in the PFA team of the year for his role in that season too. Aside from that season, Lauren also won the Premier league in the 2001-02 season, along with 4 FA cups(one with Portsmouth) and 2 Charity shields with Arsenal.
Michael Essien - Essien is probably one of the best box to box midfielders the Premier League has ever seen. He's made over 150 Premier league appearances, scoring 19 goals in the process. A true power house; he had stamina, aggression, could tackle, and although not prolific, had a great eye for goal. A testament to this was when Essien won the award for Chelsea's goal of the season on 2 separate occasions. Essien was great at driving his team forward, due to his relentless work-rate, which he could be seen doing on numerous occasions for Chelsea. Unfortunately injuries got the better of him late in his career, and he's been a peripheral figure for Chelsea in the last season and a bit, leading to him going out on loan. At the peak of his career, Essien was a monster. This is shown by his trophy collection. 2 Premier league titles, 4 FA cups, 1 League cup, 1 Charity shield and a Champions league winners medal. Essien formed dominant partnerships at the heart of Chelsea's midfield with the likes of Lampard, Ballack and Makelele, showing how he could adapt to any situation, and with any style. Essien was also the winner of Chelsea's player of the year award in 2007.
Emmanuel Petit - Arsenal won their first Premier League title in the 1997-98 season. This was the year they bought Petit, who went on to be a vital part of that title winning squad. Petit demonstrated tidy passing and tackling throughout his Arsenal career, and proved to be a cultured midfielder, who was the ideal partner for Patrick Vieira at the heart of Arsenals midfield. Petit was a great long passer and usually started all of Arsenal's attacks from deep. He had great positional awareness, due to previously being a CB in France. Effective in breaking up attacks, and also in starting them. Along with the Premier league title, Petit also won the FA cup in his 1st season. Even though Petit and Arsenal were trophyless in his 2nd season, his efforts didn't go unnoticed, as he earned a place in the PFA team of the year. He was also an underrated deliverer of set pieces. An influential part of my midfield who, due to being a great reader of the game with positional sense to match anyone, will also cover for fellow team mates when they venture forward.
Luis Garcia - A flair player. Luis Garcia made 77 Premier league appearances for Liverpool, scoring 18 goals. He was by no means one of the league's best wingers, due to being as equally brilliant as he was inconsistent. However he was capable of lots of magical moments, and scored special goals throughout his premier league stay. The most notable goal he scored in the league would probably be the winner against Everton in a Merseyside derby in 2005. He had most things you could ask for in a winger; a great eye for goal, quick feet, versatilty, clever movement and an eye for a pass too. Overall, during his Liverpool career, although never winning a title, he was instrumental in Europe scoring vital goals, helping Liverpool to win the Champions league in 2005 and be runners up in the 06-07 season. Garcia also won the FA cup, Charity shield and UEFA Super cup with Liverpool. Furthermore, he was included in the UEFA team of the year in 2005, for his vital contribution in Liverpool's european run.
Darren Anderton - The Right winger in my team. Darren Anderton made over 250 Premier league appearances for Spurs, scoring 20 goals. Anderton possessed an amazing right foot and was the creator of many goals for Tottenham in the league. He provided countless assists, not just from his passing but also his expert dead balls. Anderton could play in central midfield too, and was good at tracking back and helping out defensively. A real team player who won the League cup with Spurs in 1999. A great playmaking footballer, who showed great link up with team-mates such as Barmby and Sheringham during his Spurs career too. Unfortunately, Anderton's time at Spurs was hampered with injury and he acquired the nickname, 'Sicknote.' However this shouldn't detract from the fact that when fit, he was influential in many Spurs victories.
Cesc Fabregas - Cesc Fabregas arrived in the Premier league as a highly rated teenager. It's fair to say that after he left the Premier league for pastures new, he was a man. A man who had developed into one of the best, if not the best attacking midfielder, the like of which the Premier league had rarely seen before. Fabregas has an incredible passing game, and was the orchestrator, general, chief creator, in many of Arsenals' goals. Fabregas found space effortlessly throughout the pitch, and despite not having searing pace, his vision and movement was enough to leave opposition players trailing in his wake. As time went by, he developed an increasing knack for scoring goals, and by the end of his career, Fabregas had scored 36 goals in just over 200 Premier league games, whilst providing countless assists. He was made Arsenal captain after the departure of Vieira in 2008 and this only increased his hunger to do more. It eventually resulted in his most prolific season for Arsenal in the Premier league to date. It came during 2009-10 when he finished on 15 goals and 15 assists. He enhanced his reputation later on that summer where he was to go the World cup finals with Spain and assist Iniesta's goal in the final against Holland that won them the World Cup. Fabregas had now truly announced himself to the world as an outstanding midfielder playing at the highest level. Despite only having an FA cup medal to show for his talents, Fabregas is still regarded as one of the best midfielders to grace the Premier league. He might not have a great trophy collection, but his individual honours say just a little something about how good he really was. While at Arsenal, Fabregas boasted a stunning collection of individual awards; the Golden boy award in 2006, PFA young player of the year award in 07-08, UEFA team of the year in 2006 and 2008, PL player of the month in January and September 2007, 2 PFA teams of the year in 07-08 and 09-10 and also the UEFA Euro Team of the tournament in 2008.
Wayne Rooney - Rooney will lead the line for my team. His goals and all round play are amongst the best the Premier league has seen. Rooney's ratio so far stands at 152 goals in 332 Premier league appearances, which is an insane record not bettered by many in the Premier league era. at 1 goal in just over every 2 games. Rooney is far from just a goal scorer, which makes him the complete footballer. Goalscoring stats aren't a true measure of how good Rooney is though, because what he does on the pitch can't be judged on goal tallies alone. He's more than just your everyday run of the mill penalty box striker. He's a marauding, game changing, free spirited and during his early years, bull dozing footballer, capable of taking the game by the scruff of the neck and is usually the attacking hub of any side he plays in. He can provide assists, as shown by his tally of 83 in the PL so far, whilst playing for both United and Everton. Wayne Rooney is powerful on the ball, and although he's lost the pace that made him so devastating as a teenager, he still has the guile and movement to go past players unnoticed, which makes him such a threat outside the box. Rooney is also one of the most unselfish elite players you'll see. He's been deployed out on to the wing too, to accomodate the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez. He's great at his defensive duties, which combined with his goalscoring, and goal creating, makes him the ultimate footballer, unrivalled by many in the Premier league or in Europe. At Manchester United, he has won everything there is to win in the game. 4 Premier league titles, 2 League cups, 3 Charity shields and 1 Fifa Club World cup. His individual honours make for great reading too; 5 PL player of the month awards, 3 PFA team of the years, Player of the year in 09-10, England player of the year twice, Fifa/FIFPro World XI, PFA young player of the year twice, Goal of the season on 3 occasions, UEFA Euro 2004 Team of the tournament, and winning best goal in the Premier league 20 seasons awards, for his sublime bicycle kick winner in the derby against Manchester City.
Tactics:
This formation is a 4-2-3-1 designed to get the best out of Rooney and Fabregas, the 2 World class attackers in the team. Fabregas will play behind Rooney and act as the chief creator in the team, Rooney will be allowed to concentrate solely on goalscoring, hence staying in and around the box, although will at times drop deep so as to not neglect his defensive duties. I believe in the central trio of Essien, Petit and Fabregas, that i have the ideal combination of, passing, tacking, starting attacks from very deep and in general driving the team forward.
Petit will play slightly deeper than Essien on the pitch and look to start attacks, utilising his short and long passing game. Essien will be tasked with picking up opposition attackers, and wnning the ball using his tenancity and energy in the tackle. Anderton will be the one to provide crosses for Rooney with his great crossing ability on his right foot. Garica will play on the other wing and is a different, more skillfull, direct winger to Anderton. He will add balance to the side and also provide a genuine goal threat with his shooting ability. My CB partnership of Distin and Agger provides a great balance, even though they are both left footed. Agger will be the calm reassuring presence and be useful in bringing the ball out from the back, with his great passing ability for a CB. Distin will be less reserved and look to use his strength and pace to deal with any forward he comes across, winning the ball with his head, tackling or just simply being too fast for the opposition attacker. Irwin and Lauren are the full backs in my side, and will bomb forward at the right opportunities, linking up mostly with Fabregas, Rooney and Garcia. Anderton won't be rooted to the right wing, as it would be a waste of his playmaking abilities so he will come central at times to link up with Fabregas and Rooney aswell.
I expect the trio of Distin, Agger and Jaaskelainen to be fully concentrated for the duration of the 90 minutes and to be disciplined and act responsibly when the situation requires it.
This formation is a 4-2-3-1 designed to get the best out of Rooney and Fabregas, the 2 World class attackers in the team. Fabregas will play behind Rooney and act as the chief creator in the team, Rooney will be allowed to concentrate solely on goalscoring, hence staying in and around the box, although will at times drop deep so as to not neglect his defensive duties. I believe in the central trio of Essien, Petit and Fabregas, that i have the ideal combination of, passing, tacking, starting attacks from very deep and in general driving the team forward.
Petit will play slightly deeper than Essien on the pitch and look to start attacks, utilising his short and long passing game. Essien will be tasked with picking up opposition attackers, and wnning the ball using his tenancity and energy in the tackle. Anderton will be the one to provide crosses for Rooney with his great crossing ability on his right foot. Garica will play on the other wing and is a different, more skillfull, direct winger to Anderton. He will add balance to the side and also provide a genuine goal threat with his shooting ability. My CB partnership of Distin and Agger provides a great balance, even though they are both left footed. Agger will be the calm reassuring presence and be useful in bringing the ball out from the back, with his great passing ability for a CB. Distin will be less reserved and look to use his strength and pace to deal with any forward he comes across, winning the ball with his head, tackling or just simply being too fast for the opposition attacker. Irwin and Lauren are the full backs in my side, and will bomb forward at the right opportunities, linking up mostly with Fabregas, Rooney and Garcia. Anderton won't be rooted to the right wing, as it would be a waste of his playmaking abilities so he will come central at times to link up with Fabregas and Rooney aswell.
I expect the trio of Distin, Agger and Jaaskelainen to be fully concentrated for the duration of the 90 minutes and to be disciplined and act responsibly when the situation requires it.
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