Over two years ago I wrote an article on Lucas Leiva. The Brazilian had become a scapegoat among Liverpool fans after struggling to adapt from the much less physical and slower Brasileirao. His faults were obvious, but the qualities that made him worth persevering with aren’t typically appreciated in English footballing culture – neat passing…
As Steven Gerrard approached his 100th England cap, a flood of articles appeared eulogising his career. Journalists across the country took it upon themselves to praise his all-round ability yet there was a twinge of disappointment that he hadn’t quite fulfilled his potential, particularly in regard to his time with England. Even Gerrard himself only…
As the choice of many Manchester United legends, wearing the number 7 at Manchester United is considered a great honour. George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo are some of the best examples of past number sevens, but since Ronaldo’s departure there have been a couple of odd choices to wear…
I am not a superstitious person: I do not try to avoid black cats, I step on cracks in the pavement, and I avoid breaking mirrors because it’s just plain impractical. If there was ever a person to make me question those beliefs though, it’s Michael Ballack. Having worn the number 13 shirt at every…
Ukraine’s opening game of Euro 2012 against Sweden was the perfect send-off for Andriy Shevchenko. Before the game Shevchenko was talked about, yet it was mostly backhanded discussion – he was one of few recognisable names on the Ukrainian roster, but debate was more about whether or not he would complete the 90 minutes than…
