ITYS ISSUE FIVE by GGArmy

EXCLUSIVE

WHERE MY HEART IS CESC FABREGAS – BACK WHERE HE ONCE BELONGED

EXCLUSIVE

LIFE BEGINS AT 40 IN SPAIN WITH FOOTBALL’S FORGOTTEN MEGASTAR CRISTIANO RONALDO

THE QUIET MAN LUKE WILKSHIRE, THE SOCCEROOS’ ACCIDENTAL HERO

ITYS CONTENTS / ISSUE FIVE

P.10

pg 5 Editorial – The Quiet Achiever pg

EARLY DOORS

6 Johnny Told Us So pg 8 Txt Msg Interview with Mark Birighitti pg 9 180degrees with Mark van Aken pg 10 Club Australia - Milan Ivanovic FEATURES

pg 14 Luke Wilkshire – The Quiet Man pg

20 Bernie Ibini – From the shadows pg 26 Auerilio Vidmar – Reigning in Spain pg 28 Cesc Fabregas – Where my heart is pg 34 Life Begins at 40 – Cristiano Ronaldo THE ZONE

pg 24 In the Zone – Games, Bluray, Books,

Cars THE A-Z

pg 40 The A-Z of La Liga

ITYS MAGAZINE

EDITORIAL

The Quiet Achiever www.twitter.com/markvanaken PREPARED FOR GGARMY.com by

GGARMY.com 14 Risley Street RICHMOND VIC 3121 AUSTRALIA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mark van Aken mark@ggarmy.com +61 (0)3 8415 8413 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Michael Tarquinio SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR Kieran Pender CONTRIBUTORS Paddy Higgs, Sebastian Hassett, Dr John Bonacci, John Iannantuono, Eli Pfefferberg ART DIRECTOR Carmela D’Alesio PHOTOGRAPHY

ADVERTISING & PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Mark van Aken mark@ggarmy.com +61 (0)3 8415 8413 0433 10 10 32 Andy Gusman andy@ggarmy.com +61 (0)3 8415 8413 ©Green and Gold Army Pty Ltd 2011. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the permission of the publisher. All information contained in this magazine is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of publication. Green and Gold Army Pty Ltd can not accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Green and Gold Army Pty Ltd a license to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine.

While Tim Cahill is on television and Harry Kewell is on the billboards, fellow Socceroo Luke Wilkshire is quietly getting the job done while spending time with his family in Moscow. One of Australia’s most consistent performers over the last several years, the defender impressed at both the World Cup and Asian Cup, when so many others did not. So with the likes of Lucas Neill and Kewell heading towards the end of their careers, Wilkshire could be right in the frame for the Socceroos captaincy. With typical modesty, the Dynamo Moscow player wouldn’t be drawn on whether he will be leading the side come Brazil 2014 in his recent interview with ITYS (p.14). But if he continues to demonstrate the leadership, consistency and quality that has made him a senior member of the Socceroos, Wilkshire’s time as skipper might not be far off. In stark contrast to Wilkshire is Portuguese super star Cristiano Ronaldo, who never strays from the spot light. We speak to the Real Madrid attacking threat in this issue in an Australian exclusive interview, and also catch up with Barcelona’s new signing Cesc Fabregas. To round off our Spanish special, ITYS speaks to Olyroos manager Aurelio Vidmar about his time in Spain as a player. Elsewhere in issue five we chat to Central Coast Mariners flyer Bernie Ibini-Isei. While all attention has been focused on his teammate Mustafa Amini, the striking sensation has impressed both for his club team and at the Youth World Cup with the Young Socceroos. If Ibini-Isei continues his form into the new A-League season, the Mariners might have a fight on their hands in retaining the 19-year-old. ITYS is still only just getting its feet off the ground, so if you’ve got any suggestions or feedback, we would love to hear from you. Get in contact via Twitter or Facebook and let us know what you think. Enjoy the start of the A-League season, and remember, we are football.

Mark van Aken Editor-In-Chief

DON'T MISS ISSUE SIX! ITYS MAGAZINE

The match against East Germany was to be my last international for Australia. I was aware that my time in the green and gold was running out but I had thought I had at least three games at the World Cup left in me. To finish like I did was not how anyone wants their international career to end and I’m still disappointed about it. But after the tournament there was also a sense of relief. All the team was given a couple of days off in Berlin after the Chile game and I realised how long it had been since I had enjoyed some time just to relax. The team didn’t hold any special group celebrations after we were knocked out because we had been together for so long that everyone felt the need to split up and go their own separate ways for a while. We had spent more than a month in close proximity to each other and by that stage we all needed some time apart. I simply decided to go out to dinner in Berlin with Manfred and we visited a few clubs later that night and had a few drinks. We didn’t indulge in any wild celebrations and I was content to sit back and relax. The next day I wandered around Berlin and explored the city with Manfred, Ray Richards, Ernie Campbell and Dr Corrigan. The simple pleasure of the beautiful sights of Berlin and having a day free from football made the day particularly wonderful. The World Cup had been such a long campaign and taken so much out of me, both physically and emotionally, that I finally had time to reflect on whether I wanted to keep playing.

D L O T I

O S YOU - Johnny Warren MBE, OAM

From 'Sheilas, Wogs & Poofters' courtesy of Random House Publishing

THE JOHNNY WARREN

SUMMER SEVENS Looking for meaningful pre-season game time for your team? The Johnny Warren Summer 7s is a seven-a-side tournament open to all Premier League and Super League teams (and their reserve grade sides) throughout Football NSW

HURRY! PLACES ARE LIMITED

25th & 26th of February, 2012 University Oval, Macquarie University

www.jwff.com.au (02) 8116 9746

EARLY DOORS EDITORIAL Spurs’ Benoit Assou-Ekotto is confident that ex-Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor will be welcomed Tottenham.

THE SURVEY

Q: Which player will have the biggest impact on the field in the A-League?

1st HARRY KEWELL 46%

the txt msg interview w. Mark Birighitti ITYS: Firstly we’ll get the serious Q out of the way. How was the Youth World Cup?

MB: It was the best football experience of my career so far, just disappointed we didn’t go further in the comp! ITYS: Good 2 hear. Who’s the biggest joker in the Young Roos camp? MB: I’d be up there, my banter’s pretty good! But there are many other jokers in the team. Sam Gallagher and Kerem Bulut.

ITYS: Do u get up 2 any mischief when u r all in camp together? [Long wait for reply] MB: What happens in camp stays in camp! ITYS: Haha! Well what would you do for a living if you didn’t play football?

MB: I was pretty smart at school! I think I’d take up engineering of become a doc.

ITYS: What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened at training?

MB: Fabian Barbiero hitting the deck when there was thunder and lightning during a training session

ITYS: Haha! I bet you like reminding him of that one. And finally, tell us 1 thing most ppl don’t know about u?

Brett Emerton 20% Fred 11% Shane Smeltz 10% None of these 13% 8

ITYS MAGAZINE

MB: I have an acquired taste for European fine wines ITYS: Wow. Thanks for talking to ITYS! BY KIERAN PENDER – SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR

excited I was when I scored a cover story on the Olyroos!

WHERE WE GRILL FOOTBALL’S LEADING PUNDITS.

Mark van Aken Editor-In-Chief ITYS What was your first job in the media? Technically speaking… my paper round, but in terms of actually having input, I began contributing to NAB’s internal magazine US, right about the time I started freelancing for the good old ABSW – will never forget how

Run us through one of your typical days In the role with GGARMY. com and ITYS, I typically am online minutes after waking up, flicking through our AAP feed, getting it updated and then checking what else is happening, sub-editing blogs and even updating the pics on the site. I’m usually in the office late morning where I’ll then slip into some of my other ‘projects’ but I’m constantly monitoring the football world and making sure the site is as up-to-date as possible. Favourite interviewee? Hmm… that’s interesting because I’m not a trained journalist – hence I’m not actually a journalist in the technical sense. It might actually be Josh Kennedy because it’s — sadly — one

of the relatively few I’ve had lots of time with and done face to face, which helps the depth of it all. Ironically that same interview got me blackbanned from interviewing him again… long story. Jan Versleijen hascopped a bit lately, but he was great to interview and generally have a chat about football with, while Mark Bosnich was an interesting one, just after he’d returned to Australia. He was very open and earnest in what he had to say. Hardest part of the job? For me, currently, it’s getting into the news-hound instant cycle of news. Coming from Soccer International with a monthly production, there was never an imperative on news as it happens. With a news site like GGARMY.com, slowly but surely, I’m getting it. An example was when I was commentating on

the VPL at Northcote one Saturday and a source told me about the Victory and Heart being pulled out of the Mirabella Cup by FFA. I knew about it and sat on it for a few days only to see Michael Lynch break the story in The Age… I let out a big Homer Simpson style “D’oh” after that one. Also now juggling a few different communications projects with the site and the mag, it’s just about managing workflows. A real hard task is always coming up with fresh ideas for content. Some times it’s a forest-for-the-trees scenario where you know about a certain subject and take for granted that the average punter may not. Sometimes I’ll see a story and go ‘well everyone knows that’, then you think… hang on, maybe they don’t. ITYS BY KIERAN PENDER – SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR

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@adrianleijer In the office trying to sell some memberships! Give us a buzz!!! 1300466832 @sebth Ross Lyon's decision to join Freo is all the talk around Madrid's tapas bars tonight. Many keen to see Aitor Karanka take over at Seaford. @adampeacock3 Top way to calm things down and improve relations with the ref.. bring on Bellamy #foxfootball @GGarmy 1000 days to go, bring on Brazil 2014. See you in Rio @ALeague_Rhyming Harry’s personal sponsorship is a little untoward, instead of Hyundai he’s signed up with Ford.

ITYS MAGAZINE

EARLY DOORS EDITORIAL Sir Alex Ferguson has backed new goalkeeper David de Gea to come good despite the Spaniard’s shaky start to his EPL career.

MILAN IVANOVIC GREEN & GOLD IN BLACK & WHITE

A product of the great Red Star Belgrade teams of the 1970 and 80s, Milan Ivanovic migrated to Australia and immediately endeared himself to Adelaide football fans as an intelligent and fearless central defender. After a brilliant career in the black and white stripes of Adelaide City and the heart of the Socceroos defence, the legendary libero took some time out to chat all things Aussie football with ITYS. INTERVIEW BY JOHN BONACCI I PICTURES BY GETTY IMAGES 10

ITYS MAGAZINE

You had some amazing moments playing in Yugoslavia, such as playing against AC Milan in the Champions Cup for Red Star Belgrade. How hard a decision for you was it to move to Australia? Red Star was a fantastic team and both the league and national team were very strong back then. It was great to be involved there, but there were rules in place that players couldn’t leave the country until they reached 28 years of age. Before I migrated here permanently, I was here with Red Star playing three years earlier and I just loved the country. This definitely helped me make my decision, but I also got some good advice from Zoran Matic and Dragoslav Sekularac (former coach of Red Star and Footscray JUST) who told me that Adelaide City was a good club and I should consider it. We’re very happy you made that decision as you quickly became one of the country’s best defenders amassing 59 caps. Did you think you would have such an impact on Australian football? No, I definitely didn’t. I really thought that I would be here for about three years and then go back, because I still had an apartment, friends and family in Belgrade. But one thing led to another and I have had a great experience and never ended up going back.

What would you consider to be the highlight of your illustrious career? My most memorable moment was probably after I arrived in Australia. It would have to be the World Cup qualifiers we played against Argentina. Those two games were fantastic because we played against some of the best players in the world, but I’d have to say the championships with Adelaide City were also very special. You worked very hard for the Socceroos leading up to 1997, but sat on the bench for the qualifiers against Iran. Was that one of the disappointments of your career? It was more disappointing that we didn’t qualify for the World Cup than it was for me to sit on the bench. I was a squad player and I just wanted the team to do well. I wasn’t worried that I didn’t get to play those games, but it was really painful for the team not to have the chance to go to France. Has the A-League captured your attention? I’ve been watching a lot of the A-League and I think that it is getting better and better all the time. The quality of the players we’re getting in the league is good. I really like going to watch Adelaide United, but I still try to see most of the games on TV when I get the chance. Most of all I enjoy watching attractive football and have found it interesting seeing the

game change over the years. For example when I played, I was a libero and could get forward when the opportunity was right. Now many teams play with a flat back four whose only job it is to defend. The Adelaide City teams of 2000 to 2005 were amongst the best in the old national league. How do you think they would go against modern day A-League opposition? I really don’t think I can compare the teams I played in with the A-League teams at the moment. We had some great players back in those days, but the game has changed and it is probably faster now than it was then. All players have to have the ability to attack and defend now. The only comparison we can probably make is the example of Damien Mori, who showed he could score lots of the goals in the old national league and still keep scoring them in the A-League even when he was about 36 years old. You’ve had a couple of coaching stints since your retirement as a player. What else is keeping you busy in football? I coached a few Super League clubs in South Australia after I retired, but I’m now working with Croydon in the Super League as Technical Director overseeing the Seniors, Reserves and Under 19s. I also have an academy that I’m running with a mix of age groups, so that is all keeping me busy. ITYS MAGAZINE

Your football nickname was the surgeon. Where did that one come from? I think that all started overseas. Maybe the supporters loved the way that I was playing and I developed a reputation. John Perin who coached me at Adelaide City also sometimes mentioned a doctor or surgeon, so I think it just stayed around. Ok then Doctor. How do you rate the health of domestic football at the moment? I think the game is in a good position and the A-League has helped a lot. The league is very tough and teams have to always be at their best. The competition is very even and there’s a fine line between finishing in the top two or three, or finishing near the bottom. Even though it would be hard with the size of the country, I would be very happy to see a second division one day. You came out of retirement to play in the South Australian State League for Northern Demons and there were rumours circulating that you scored a hat full of goals. They’re false right? Yes that’s right. I’d retired and they called me up to play a couple of games to help them. They were in a battle to fight relegation and they thought I could help them. I can confirm that I did not score any of the goals people are saying I did and I have no idea who wrote those things. 12

ITYS MAGAZINE

Legendary coach Zoran Matic came across as a reserved man, yet a tactical genius. What was he really like? Zoran was a fantastic man who had great football ideas and knew what he wanted. His football education was in Yugoslavia and he stuck by those principles and they worked for him. His persona and the way he looked at the game made him look very serious at times, but his record speaks for itself. He is one of the best coaches we have had in this country.

And finally… If you could make one change to football in Australia, what would it be? That’s a good question and I’m sure the federation wouldn’t listen to me anyway. But there has been some talk of a cup competition across the country that would be great, but it will be hard to implement. I’m not saying we are ready for it now, but one day I hope we can introduce a second division in this country to see relegation and promotion.

It would allow more young players to come through the system and would mean that we don’t lose them overseas. At the moment we lose too many players overseas at a young age and they end up sitting on the bench in reserve teams. They should be going overseas when they’re at least 21. A second division will also close the gap between the state leagues and the A-League, because a lot of players are finding the step up in the competition quite hard. ITYS

the QUIET MAN With the bulk of senior Socceroos heading towards the end of their careers, manager Holger Osieck will soon be casting an eye over his charges for a new leadership core, and possibly a new captain. As one of the most consistent performers in the national team set-up, Luke Wilkshire will likely be a key fixture in the lead up to Brazil 2014, and beyond. WORDS BY KIERAN PENDER â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR I PICTURES BY GETTY IMAGES

ith Socceroos right-back Luke Wilkshire destined to play an increasingly influential role with the Socceroos, ITYS Magazine thought it was time to find out a little more about the fleet footed anti-star. Speaking from his home in Moscow, Wilkshire opens the interview with a charismatic ‘G’day’ in a thick Australian accent, and throughout the chat reveals himself as a friendly and cheerful guy. Given the mid-year Socceroos friendlies, the first thing to be discussed is the team’s progression under Holger Osieck, with Wilkshire painting a positive picture of the side. “So far it’s going well. Since he’s taken over I think the transition has been very smooth, and we’ve seen a few new faces come into the team and gel well, so that’s a good sign leading up to the World Cup qualification campaign.” But before the interview moves to the future, it’s important to go into Wilkshire’s past, starting with the last World Cup. The defender was a standout in South Africa, one of the few Australians to impress, yet he had to endure the heartache that came with the Socceroos failing to progress from the group. Nevertheless, Wilkshire highlights the positive side of the tournament. “I think everyone enjoyed the World Cup both on and off the field. Personally I felt good, and I enjoy every minute I play for the national team, especially at such big occasions. I think the team performed well, apart from the first game which was a bit disappointing, but even then don’t think it was as bad as people make out. “Germany was a very good side on the night, unbelievable to be honest — but if you look at the Serbia and Ghana games, the team performed very well. We had great character, and we played some great football. We beat the Serbs and were unlucky not to beat Ghana with 10-men. So it was a really memorable time.”

Ultimately though, Wilkshire admits the disappointment that came with the results. “It was really disappointing in the end not to go through. We knew it was a tough task going into the Serbia game, but we believed that we could still do it. If things had gone a little bit more favourably for us, if we’d had a bit more of a rub of the green in the group games, then we could have gone through. In football, and especially at that level, you need an element of luck to progress.” With Tim Cahill sent off against Germany and Harry Kewell suffering the same fate against Ghana, the Socceroos had to cope with a pretty tough run of luck. But the Dynamo Moscow man doesn’t put up any excuses, and instead highlights the team’s response to the decisions. “You’ve got to roll with the punches, so when things don’t go your way

you’ve got to keep fighting. I think the team showed that in abundance, especially the character showed when the team went down to 10-men against Ghana. And with the criticism we received after the Germany game, the way we performed afterwards showed the team character and team spirit, and that’s one of our strong points.” Just when World Cup disappointment was fading into distant memory, the Socceroos had to undergo more heartache, this time at the hands of Japan in the Asian Cup. Tadanari Lee’s strike deep into extra time was a horrible experience for the team and the fans watching back home, but again Wilkshire focuses on the positive aspects. “It was a really enjoyable tournament. We went into it knowing that if we performed to our peak we’d be there or there-abouts. Obviously

To captain your country would be a dream. IT’S SOMETHING EVERY FOOTBALLER FROM A VERY YOUNG AGE WOULD DREAM OF DOING, AND I’M NO DIFFERENT.

ITYS MAGAZINE

There are many highs, but there are probably twice as many lows. YOU HAVE TO TAKE A LOT OF DIFFICULT TIMES, BUT IT MAKES YOU THE PLAYER THAT YOU ARE.

to fall short at the final hurdle hurt, it was disappointing, but I think a lot of positives came out. A lot of young players started to come out, Matt McKay started to play, and some of the other boys got a sniff. So from that aspect it was great to see.” Wilkshire’s participation in the Asian Cup and recent friendlies has pushed his Socceroo appearance record well past the half-century mark, and when Young Socceroos and Olyroos performances are included, the defender has represented his country almost 100 times. And as he tells ITYS, the Wollongong-born star is still looking upwards. “It’s amazing. Sometimes you don’t realise what you’ve done or how it has come about, but I’m very proud every time I pull on the shirt. I’m very proud to look back at the moments I’ve had in the green and gold. And I look forward to many more to come. I’ve gone past the 50 [Socceroo cap mark], and I’m looking towards that 100, and I feel very privilege to be able to do it. Long may it continue!” It has been a long and varied road for Wilkshire from his first entry into professional football to being a senior member of the national team, but the soon-to-be 30 year old had a start similar to many Socceroos; at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). Reading the list of notable graduates from the Canberra based program is like looking over a Socceroos team sheet, with the likes of Mitchell Langerak, Nikita Rukavytsya, Robbie Kruse, Carl Valeri and Adam Federici; all players who have spent time at the AIS in recent years. Unsurprisingly, Wilkshire is full of praise for the institute, which he credits for helping him cope with the challenges of the years that would follow. “I had a brilliant time there. It was an opportunity for me and I left home, obviously you’re young, you are moving out of your comfort zone. When I got there I was under the guidance of Steve

O’Connor. I had a great year, I learnt a lot, both about myself off the field and on the pitch. I felt I improved in that year 10-fold, and it really helped and put me in good stead for making the trip overseas and taking on the challenges abroad.” After graduating from the AIS, Wilkshire went abroad to sign with English side Middlesbrough, where he spent several years. Eager for first team football, the defender switched to Bristol City, before his performances at the 2006 World Cup saw another move to Dutch side FC Twente, aided by then national boss Guus Hiddink. The Australian played regularly at the club, and was given the opportunity to experience the difference between football in Holland and England, two countries with a proud football tradition. It is this contrast that Wilkshire believes improved him as a player. “Without a doubt [it helped]. That’s one thing for sure that I’m really glad I’ve done, and been able to experience the different football culture. You go from country to country and it’s

all different, so I’ve learnt to adapt and play different ways in different conditions, and that’s definitely helped me along the way. It’s what makes you and improves you.” Having played in Holland for several seasons, Wilkshire is well placed to evaluate the ‘Dutch Revolution’ and its impact on Australian football. “I think Australian football is definitely still on the up. The A-League is getting stronger and I really believe that it will only continue going forward. In the football world there are a lot of ‘ifs’, ‘buts’ and ‘maybes’, but I think we’ve got the right people in charge at the FFA who know the best way to go forward, and we’ve got to firmly believe in that.” After his enlightenment at Twente came a somewhat surprising move to Russia, where Wilkshire linked up with Dynamo Moscow. The defender has flourished in the unfamiliar surrounds, and claims the move was probably the best decision he has ever made. “It was an opportunity. There was a Russian guy who had just retired when I was at FC Twente, and he ITYS MAGAZINE

approached me and put the idea to me. It was uncharted territory, and I’ve always been up for a challenge. So I went and had a look at it, saw what the club had and how they were run. And after a few days my wife and I decided it was something to pursue. It’s probably one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life.” One of the oldest clubs in Russia, Dynamo is steeped in history and was the sole home of the man known to many as the best ever goalkeeper - Lev Yashin. The side dominated during the communist era, but have so far failed to win a league title in the Russian Premier League. Now, with the likes of Andriy Voronin, Kevin Kurányi and Wilkshire at the club, Dynamo is striving for success. Challenging for a UEFA Champions League, the defender fills ITYS in on the club situation. “We’re playing very well at the moment, getting the right results. For us we need to be qualifying for Europe next year. We’ve got the right squad and we have everything here. So hopefully it will be a successful season.” Moving to the cold and at times inhospitable climes of Russia isn’t a decision made lightly, but Wilkshire stresses that the move has been enjoyable for both he and his young family. “At times it’s been challenging, at times it has been very enjoyable. But it’s not just about me, I’ve got a young family who I have to look after, that have to be happy and settled, and moving somewhere like here, it can be difficult at first. Right now we are in a very good place, my family is very happy and settled. I think I’ve got a few more years playing in Russia at Dynamo to come.” While Moscow may be a long way from his home town of Wollongong, the defender hasn’t had many troubles settling in and adapting to the culture. 18

ITYS MAGAZINE

“I’m pretty open minded and relaxed, and you need to be to come somewhere like this. So no, I found it quite simple to adapt. In football, it doesn’t matter what language you speak, it speaks for itself. It’s international.” And while he stresses he’s not going anywhere for the time being, Wilkshire believes that when he does eventually move on, he’ll miss the city, the club and all the friends he’s made in the country. “Moscow is phenomenal. It’s huge. But I definitely won’t be missing the traffic! I’ll miss the club, I’m at a very good club and I’ve got lots of friends throughout it, so that will be hard as always. But hopefully it’s going to be a while before I’m missing anything.” Don’t let Wilkshire’s love of Russia fool you though, he’s still definitely an Aussie at heart. When asked about the hardest part of being an Australian footballer living overseas, the 29-year-old discusses a topic poignant to any expat. “The fact that you lived in the best, most beautiful country in the world, and then you come across here to play your football. It’s hard when you leave Australia. For me it’s the best country in the world. What we have back in Australia, sometimes it can be taken for granted by those who live there all their lives. But once you’ve left Australia, you really realise how great home is. There’s really no place I’d rather be.” Missing Australia is only one of the lows of being a professional footballer, although Wilkshire is more eager to talk about the numerous enjoyable moments he’s experienced throughout his career. “There have been many [high points]. The ultimate high would be without a doubt the World Cup, just representing your country, also at the Asian Cup. There are many highs, but there are probably twice as many lows. You have to take a lot of difficult times, but it makes you the player that you are. There

are probably too many to name. But all in all, I look back and I’ve had a lot of good memories, and I hope to make a lot more in the coming years.” Casting an eye towards the future, the Socceroos squad is about to undergo a challenging period. With a number of high profile stars stepping down, or nearing the end of their careers, the Australian side will have to rely on a young and inexperienced squad in qualification for Brazil 2014 and beyond. But Wilkshire is undaunted by the challenge, looking back to Germany 2006 as inspiration for the continued strength of the Socceroos. “I think people were asking the same question after the 2006 World Cup. There were some players retiring, and some change, but there have always been people who step up and produce the level of football and quality that we need. “And I believe that we’ve got enough coming through, and even the older, experienced guys who are still around, to get through the qualifying to the next World Cup. I believe in the players, and the coach and the coaching staff, and everyone else at the FFA, to make sure that we get there. I think everyone has to have that belief and that desire, and I think we’ll be ok.” Finally, with current captain Lucas Neill heading towards the end of his career, and the bulk of the other senior Socceroos in a similar situation, does Wilkshire believe he will be the man to skipper Australia in the near future? “Who knows? Of course to captain your country would be a dream. It’s something every footballer from a very young age would dream of doing, and I’m no different. But what will be, will be. I enjoy playing, I enjoy being part of a great team, and long may that continue. I hope I have many more years to come.” ITYS

In football, it doesn’t matter what language you speak, it speaks for itself. IT’S INTERNATIONAL.

OUT OF THE OUT OF THE

SHADOWS

SHADOWS At the Youth World Cup Bernie Ibini-Isei showed he can match it with the most talented youngsters in the world. So why, compared to the likes of Mustafa Amini and Tommy Oar, is so little spoken about him? ITYS sat down with the striking sensation to find out more about his incredible rise.

BY KIERAN PENDER – SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR I PICTURES BY GETTY IMAGES

ith the names of Oar, Amini and Mathew Leckie all expected for the under 20 Youth World Cup, Bernie Ibini-Isei might not have thought he would play a major part. But with Leckie withdrawing and the team failing to shine, the Central Coast Mariners’ striker was one of the few high points in an otherwise disappointing tournament. And it isn’t as if his performances at the tournament were a flash in the pan. He lit up the Australian domestic scene last season, with a number of quality performances in both the A-League and National Youth League (NYL). With a high work rate and serious dedication, he has been rated by those close to the Mariners squad as the one to watch this season. So with the A-League season still a while off, ITYS thought we should

find out more about the talented young striker. Born in Nigeria, Ibini-Isei moved to Australia at a young age and has loved life here ever since. “I moved to Australia when I was one, and it’s been great. Really just normal life, I’ve never known anything different.” The athletic striker quickly became involved in football, and after joining in his early years of schooling hasn’t looked back since. “I used to play at primary school, and then one of the teachers said I should join a club. And I did, and it has just gone from there.” After finishing primary school, Ibini-Isei moved to prestigious school Westfield Sports High, alongside Mariners’ livewire Mustafa Amini. From there, he progressed into the ITYS MAGAZINE

“TO HAVE PLAYED IN FRONT OF 50,000 PEOPLE, AND JUST THE WAY THE GAME WENT; IT WAS A GREAT MATCH JUST TO BE INVOLVED IN.” Central Coast Mariners, and has been roasting A-League and NYL defenders ever since. “Westfield High and Central Coast have a link for the youth team. So I trialled, and I’d also previously been at the Central Coast academy. So I made the youth team, and just continued from there.” A lover of several other sports, Ibini-Isei is huge basketball fan and very good at athletics, so it is perhaps lucky he took to football first. But, as the 18-year-old confesses to ITYS, his allegiances were never really in doubt. “As soon as I started playing football it was definitely my dream to play professionally.” Other than the Youth World Cup, one of the defining moments so far in Ibini-Isei’s career has been the A-League Grand Final. Coming on as a substitute, the Mariners’ starlet experienced firsthand the penalty shootout heartache, although wasn’t called upon to step up to the spot. “I was definitely nervous about the possibility of taking a penalty at that stage. I wasn’t really looking forward to it! But the rest of the game was a great experience, one I’ll never forget. To have played in front of 50,000 people, and just the way the game went; it was a great match just to be involved in.”

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Ibini-Isei was also the top scorer in the NYL, a competition he starred in last season. “Yeah it was good to be the top scorer, and it was also good to have done so well with the team.” Alongside the striker at the Central Coast are a number of other talented youngsters. Accompanying Ibini-Isei to the u20 tournament in Colombia was Mustafa Amini, Trent Sainsbury and Sam Gallagher, and keeper Matt Ryan would have been in the squad bar an injury. Ibini-Isei tells ITYS the importance of having these young footballers at the club with him, with Matt Ryan and Mustafa Amini getting special mention. “Matt Ryan was also with Westfield High with me, so it’s been an easy transition. I know Matt really well. And Musty is a great kid, and a great player.” Having a coach with faith in youth is a key aspect of Ibini-Isei’s development last season, and Graham Arnold’s philosophy has helped groom a group who could dominate the A-League scene for years to come. Speaking after Ibini-Isei and NYL strike partner Mitchell Duke had scored their first goals for the senior side, Central Coast’s youth coach Tony Walmsley highlighted the successful development system. “While Bernie and Dukey scoring on Wednesday night was no surprise to me, it does indicate how far we have come. Arnie has been supportive all season and when that support converts to putting faith in the young boys for such an important game, the youth program is validated. We have another three players ready to step into the first team if required, so our depth is in good shape. The challenge will be retention.” If Ibini-Isei continues to impress, retention will certainly be a problem for the Mariners, and the striker could soon be headed to European

“ARNIE HAS BEEN SUPPORTIVE ALL SEASON AND WHEN THAT SUPPORT CONVERTS TO PUTTING FAITH IN THE YOUNG BOYS FOR SUCH AN IMPORTANT GAME THE YOUTH PROGRAM IS VALIDATED.” shores. If he does, he will follow a path well worn by Australian footballers, such as Mark Viduka, who he names alongside Thierry Henry as his childhood idols. “I’d have to say Thierry Henry was one of my favourite strikers growing up. Also Viduka and Harry Kewell were role models to look up to, being Australian players.” Ibini-Isei’s rise to football fame has been rapid, much like the striker’s style of play. So what advice does he have for youngsters trying to emulate

his road to professional football? “Just always work hard and don’t let disappointment affect you. Keep working hard!” One of the few to impress at an otherwise disappointing Youth World Cup for the Young Socceroos, Ibini-Isei will now be focused on another successful A-League season. If the strong, skilful, athletic and lighting quick striker continues his meteoric rise, it won’t be long until higher honours call, both at club and national level. ITYS

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THE ZONE EDITED BY ANDY GUSMAN EDITORIAL Raul Meireles has insisted that he never wanted to leave Liverpool but admitted that he jumped at the chance to join Chelsea.

NEW TO BLURAY AND DVD

FAST AND FURIOUS 5 > ACTION Vin Diesel and Paul Walker lead the reunion of returning stars for the fifth chapter of the franchise. Since Brian O’Connor (Walker) and Mia Toretto (Jordana Brewster) broke Dom Toretto (Diesel) out of custody, they’ve blown across many borders to elude authorities. Now backed into a corner in Rio de Janeiro, they must pull one last job to gain freedom. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PspF_GA-9U C L I C K T O P R E V I E W

ARTHUR > COMEDY Russell Brand stars as Arthur Bach, a man who has always relied on two things to get by: his limitless fortune and his lifelong nanny Hobson (Helen Mirren) to keep him out of trouble. But now he must chose between an arranged marriage that will ensure his lavish lifestyle or an uncertain future with the one thing money can't buy – the woman he loves. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtTVquZ2TFk C L I C K T O P R E V I E W

SONS OF ANARCHY: SEASON 1 > ACTION/ADVENTURE Sons of Anarchy examines a biker gang from both perspectives, as Jackson Teller (Charlie Hunnam) struggles between loyalty to the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, Redwood Originals (which his dead father founded), and doubts about his criminal actions. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_XFvVjaKrw C L I C K T O P R E V I E W

FIFA SOCCER 97 GOLD > SUPER NINTENDO FIFA 97 for the super Nintendo was easily five years before its time, and then you looked at the screen. Despite not being great CLASSIC GAME on the eyes, the game was fantastic. Incorporating 255 teams and many game modes, FIFA Soccer 97 was unquestionably the sporting game of the year.

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GAMES DRIVER : SAN FRANCISCO > MISSION BASED DRIVING The latest instalment in the Driver series has hit the shelves and John Tanner is back to revive the series after the debacle that was Driver 3. While many of us have played previous Driver games this time it is a little different. John Tanner now has special powers, which make for an interesting experience. The game begins with Tanner’s long time nemesis Charles Jericho escaping from prison, and this prison break leads to a pursuit that lands Tanner into a coma. While many previous games have started in similar circumstances what happens next is what really sets Driver: San Francisco apart from previous titles. The game takes you into Tanner’s head and after the accident he develops a power that allows him to change into different characters bodies, and hover high into the San Francisco skyline. The driving mechanics is really what makes this game stand out. Driver: San Francisco has a nice feel in regards to the gameplay, developers have found a nice balance between arcade style gameplay and simulation style racing physics. The game incorporates 140 licensed vehicles, which for a game of this type is quite unexpected and adds a nice finishing touch to an already impressive game. Just like the early Driver games, the focus is on the driving. However, now all switching between cars is conducted using Tanner’s “Shifting” ability. While this new feature is rather perplexing, it actually adds an enjoyable element to the game. Driver really excels in regards to the graphics and visuals. While Driver: San Francisco does have some faults, overall it’s a fun game to play. Graphics Presentation Lasting Appeal Gameplay Online Play The “Shift” system works really well and revitalises the genre Loads of licensed vehicles

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Supreme graphics Lots of content Difficulty or the lack thereof Storyline can get repetitive

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DRIVE | 2011 FORD TERRITORY TS The home grown Australian four-wheel drive is back and it continues to excite. Ford recently spent $500 million on an overhaul of the Territory and they have spent the money wisely. They have added a 2.7 litre turbo diesel powered V6 engine to the range and the 4-litre petrol six-cylinder engine has been improved. The Territory TS comes fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission, and is $7000 more than the entry level TX model. Prices start at $46,990 – at this price you will get dual zone climate control, eight inch colour touch screen, third row seating, leather-

wrapped steering wheel, 18 inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a new bumper, along with all the usual features. The Australian built 6-cylinder petrol engine has also been improved, with a 5kw increase giving the Territory 195kw. The reworked engine drinks less

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fuel with figures quoted at 10.6L/100km, however be warned once you add weight to this vehicle the fuel figures begin to grow dramatically. Overall this is a quality vehicle and we suggest test driving both the TS and TX models and with different engine options before making your selection.

ITYS's Top Played SAM GALLAGHER - CENTRAL COAST MARINERS

Tonight I'm Gonna Cry - Keith Urban

ITYS Top 5 Singles Me and My Drank - Lil Wayne Friday - Emily Black Tonight I'm Gonna Cry - Keith Urban They Don't Really Care About Us - Michael Jackson I'm Blue Eiffel 65

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SECRET DIARY OF A LIVERPOOL SCOUT / SIMON HUGHES

One of the most successful acts in rock history, Red Hot Chili Peppers’ have now released their first new album since hit success Stadium Arcadium.

Few people know about the major role played behind the scenes by Geoff Twentyman, Liverpool’s chief scout from 1959 to 1984. Twentyman under earthed a host of world-famous stars.

NOTHING BUT THE BEAT / DAVID GUETTA

DENIS LAW: MY LIFE IN FOOTBALL / DENIS LAW

French dance music producer David Guetta took the world by absolute storm with his last album One Love, and he’s set to do it again with new record Nothing But The Beat.

WATCH THE THRONE / JAY Z & KANYE WEST Watch the Throne is collaboration between two of the biggest icons in Hip Hop history, and features guest appearances by Beyoncé, Frank Ocean & Curtis Mayfield. A must listen!

Manchester United legend Denis Law looks back on his remarkable career and reflects on both the highs and the lows.

FOOTBALL - BLOODY HELL! : THE BIOGRAPHY OF ALEX FERGUSON / PATRICK BARCLAY Sir Alex Ferguson is without doubt the most controversial and compelling figure in football today. Award-winning journalist Patrick Barclay has spoken to those who know Ferguson best: fellow managers, former players, colleagues and commentators.

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From World Cup glory to the sustained success of the Catalan kings in European club football, Spain is enjoying a golden age. While the EPL becomes the global league of choice, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the bright lights of Madrid and Barcelona that still shine brightest. But what of football outside of the Galacticos limelight? Sebastian Hassett reports on one hot day under the Autumn sun in Seville. WORDS BY SEBASTIAN HASSETT I IMAGES BY GETTY IMAGES

itting high up with the gods in Benito VillamarĂn Stadium, the unrelenting Andalucian sun is searing down with an intensity that nobody should be exposed to - least of all footballers. It's just gone midday and the match between Real Betis and Mallorca has just kicked off. Officially, it's 36 degrees, but in this concrete bowl on the northern fringes of Seville, where the heat refracts from the terraces below, sweat is dripping

from my every pore. "This would never happen for Real Madrid or Barcelona," alleges Carlos, the owner of a local bar and my host for the day. "We live with the sun all year but even we know that playing at this time is wrong. These sort of things happen to Betis all the time." The previous night, upon hearing of my interest in watching Betis play, Carlos was at pains to paint a picture of what is so special about his club.

Following Real Betis, I quickly learn, is not like following other clubs. I hear that that saying frequently, but Carlos is undeterred. "But we are different to every one else. Betis is not a club. It is a feeling. Other clubs might say that but we actually live it." This is not always a good one, however. The Verdiblancos are riddled by misfortune, saddled with self-doubt [and debt] and frequently nobbled by an apparent conspiracy of the football gods.

The day before the match, Carlos has used his contacts at the club to get me inside the bowels of the stadium to better explain the story of his club. The first he points out is that the name of the disgraced former president, Ruiz de Lopera, has been removed from the exterior. Despite being charged with fraud last year - 13 months after 65,000 Betis fans took to the streets to protest

against his reign - de Lopera tried to sell his ownership stake to his friend Luis Oliver, who looked set to pick up a 51 per cent share for the suspiciously bargain price of €16 million. But the local judge appointed to oversee de Lopera's trial pulled a telling string, working out a complicated plot to freeze out de Lopera's influence and instill a fresh board, headed up by Rafael Gordillo,

a former player and one of the most instrumental voices for change. Loved by the fans, Gordillo's arrival has been heralded by the terraces. "Having Gordillo has brought has back the hope that we can get back to where we should be," Carlos said. "De Lopera was terrible, he ran the club to benefit himself and we are still finding out new things about the bad things he did. Now we have a new board and they have brought in people under them who are experts in their field. They're small steps, but they are steps in the right direction." The next thing he points out is the logo. There's 13 green and white stripes that crowd out the club's emblem. "That is there because we have a strange connection with bad luck, and with losing. It's even our motto: Viva er Betis manque pierda! (‘Long live Betis even when they lose!’)." The official flag of Andalusia is green and white, the same colours as Betis. Did the latter draw inspiration from the former? Not quite. The state flag was adopted seven years after Real Betis picked their green and white stripes [a variation of the Celtic shirts brought home by a businessman who visited Glasgow for work]. The man who chaired the committee to pick the flag the regional colours, Blas Infante, was a Betis fanatic. Carlos presses his finger to his lips when asked if Infante was influenced by his passion. "You can't say it publicly." He winks, nods and smiles. But perhaps the best topic to broach here is the derby against Sevilla. It's amongst the spiciest in world football, dating right back to 1907 when Betis was formed by the working class who were banned from joining the upperclass originals. "It's not quite as class-divided as it was, and Sevilla have played well recently, so it's about 50-50 in the city these days," Carlos concedes. "But in the towns around Sevilla that are not so wealthy, Betis is their club." ITYS MAGAZINE

"WE'RE ABOVE BOTH BARCELONA AND SEVILLE. WE'VE HAD SOME BAD TIMES BUT I THINK THINGS ARE FINALLY TURNING FOR GOOD." Needless to say, all this had me well-prepared to take in the experience. Betis began the match with the right intent but it was their island visitors who looked sharper, and Emilio Nsue was looking particularly threatening in attack, especially when he was able to skip behind the hosts' back four. However, just as the home fans started to become restless, their team responded. A strong penalty claim was turned down, and most incredibly, just before half-time, they hit the woodwork three times in two seconds. Ruben Castro rattled the post with an excellent first effort but Jorge Molina couldn't put home the rebound, twice thumping the ball into the crossbar. Carlos looked at me with an expression that was half laughter,

half suffering. "Didn't I tell you this always happens to us? There's the proof," he said. Betis were comfortably on top on the second stanza but still lacked that cutting edge. Chances were going begging and time was slipping away. Mallorca had pulled their men deep into defence, happy to leave with a 0-0 draw. In bringing on 16year old Ă lvaro Vadillo, the youngest player in the club's history, some were wondering if Betis manager Pepe Mel had also given up. On came loan signing Roque Santa Cruz, to make his debut, to a huge ovation. Short of match fitness he may have been but he instantly offered Betis a lift, and helped win a corner in the 86th minute. The corner was swung in with a dangerous mix of pace and swerve, and after taking a deflection, the

ball looped up for Ruben Castro, unmarked just yards out from goal. As if in slow motion, he steadied himself and belted the ball into the net, bringing mass jubilation to the green-and-white hoards. After cheering the team off they turn and scurry for shade, not least the club mascot, Palmeiro [a spiky green tree, no less], who has collapsed on his back in the middle of the field. But the sauna had been worth it; three points can cure anything, even heat stroke. "And you know what my favourite thing is?" Carlos chimes triumphantly, his face radiating the joy only a win can bring. "We're above both Barcelona and Seville. We've had some bad times but I think things are finally turning for good." For his sake, and the thousands of other long-suffering BĂŠticos, I certainly hope he is right. ITYS

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SPAIN REINING IN

Despite being one of the biggest leagues in the world, very few Australians have played in Spain. Aurelio Vidmar and John Aloisi are the only players who immediately come to mind, and beyond that few antipodeans have ventured to the Iberian Peninsula. So in anticipation of our La Liga special, featuring exclusive interviews with Cesc Fabregas and Cristiano Ronaldo, ITYS Magazine chatted to Vidmar about his glory days in Spain and beyond. WORDS BY KIERAN PENDER I IMAGE BY GETTY IMAGES

he stereotypical journeyman footballer, current Olyroos coach Aurelio Vidmar played for 10 different clubs during his career, ranging from teams in Belgium, Holland, Spain and Japan. As one of a select number of Australians to play in La Liga, Vidmar happily reflects on his time in Tenerife, an island off the Spanish mainland. “It was fantastic. It’s probably the country where they play the best football, even when I was there 12 years ago. It was great, a great place to live; the football was fantastic, the culture was fantastic, and that was something I really loved. But I enjoyed my time in every country.” Vidmar began his career at NSL side Adelaide City, before moving to Belgian club K.V. Kortrijk in 1991. He had spells at various teams in the area, before moving to Dutch side Feyenoord. After time in Switzerland at FC Sion and in Spain, a continental switch led to a spell at Japanese club Sanfrecce Hiroshima, before returning to Australia. “I made my name in Belgium and I really enjoyed my time there; I still have some very good friends over there that I’m in contact with. Everywhere was a little bit different; the time I spent in Japan for example was far different to my time in Europe.” Other than being a legend at Adelaide City, Vidmar never really settled at a club, regularly switching between teams over in Europe.

Although some footballers manage to stay at one club seemingly forever, the former-Socceroo acknowledges that life on the move is just part of football. “The life of a footballer is like that really. If you’re very fortunate you can stay at one club for a long time, but my path was a little bit different. I loved every minute of my time away, it was a great adventure and I wouldn’t change that for the world.” When asked if he misses playing football week in, week out, Vidmar gives the answer you’d expect from a sportsman who was at the top level for a long time and has since moved to other pursuits. “I had my time! 20 years was a fair crack at it really, that’s a long time playing professional sports. I had my time, retired at the right time, and wanted to put something back. I was fortunate enough to start off as an assistant the minute I retired, and that’s brought me to where I am today. I’ve no regrets and will continue to strive to do my very best and get the most out of myself as a manager.” After such a long stint as a professional footballer, Vidmar has no intention to play properly again, and doesn’t even turn out for a local park team. “I haven’t touched a football for five and a half years, since I retired! Besides the odd touch in training here or there, I haven’t played for anyone and don’t intend to.” ITYS

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WHERE MY HEART IS It was a transfer that was just waiting to happen. Barca’s ‘lost son’ Cesc Fabregas joined his old friends and now he’s ready to be a part of the best club team in history. Cesc speaks exclusively about the return he always dreamt of, why he couldn’t stay at Arsenal and why he chose Fabregas and not Cesc on the back of his Barca shirt. INTERVIEW BY OSCAR RODRIGUEZ I IMAGES BY GETTY IMAGES AND DE SPORTWERELD

hile we are waiting in front of one of the small interview rooms in the press conference hall at Barcelona’s impressive Joan Gamper training ground, Francesc Fabregas Senior turns up. He’s all smiles. Speaking to everyone in the room with joy, it’s obvious that his son’s move to Barcelona has made him a happier man. It’s the day after Fabregas scored his first goal as an official Barcaplayer, netting one against Napoli. Even a bigger reason for his dad to smile. His son turns up and they hug each other. Fabregas Snr whispers something in Jnr’s ear and they are both laughing. The Catalan star has a whole list of one-on-one interviews to do this day, but it seems he doesn’t tire of speaking about his dream move. Cesc, congratulations on your move to Barcelona. How has the period been as a Barcelona player? It’s been very hectic, let me admit that. You come from a stage of relief that the clubs have agreed a transfer straight to a presentation, new team-mates, a new dressing room and a new style of play. But I have enjoyed every second of it. Especially the presentation at Camp Nou, where I was so overwhelmed by so many fans turning up just to welcome me to the club.

thinking ‘something is going to go wrong.’ You never know if the clubs end up discussing some minor detail in the contract and suddenly the deal is off. I feel like there’s a big pressure taken off my shoulders. I have felt a lot of pressure during the past two or three months as I knew the clubs were talking and negotiating. But now it’s over and I can look forward. Arsenal managed to ensure that they could get you back in case Barcelona wants to sell you in the future. What are your thoughts about that? That’s absolutely fine by me. I enjoyed my time at Arsenal. I had some great years there. I developed as a player and a person. I finished there as captain of the club and I will still follow the club and their results. I don’t know if it’s realistic that I would return one day. Maybe I said the same when I left Barca. So you never know. If that is the final thing Arsenal needed in order to let me go, then I’m satisfied. Give us your thoughts on the current Barcelona team? Well, it’s the best team in the world right now. I would definitely say that this team could be called the best

club team in history. They have won eleven titles in such a short period and I think the team has potential to win many more titles during the next couple of years. My hope is that the team’s good form will continue and I want to try winning some of the big titles with Barca. That’s also one of the main reasons why I’m here. I know that I can win the Spanish league and Champions League with this club and that’s what I’m dreaming of. You’re going to compete with Xavi and Andrés Iniesta for a place in the team, like you have done in the national team. What do you think about that situation? It’s going to be different to fight for a place in the team. I left Arsenal as captain of the club and was sure of playing full games every time I was fit. I couldn’t complain about that in Arsenal. Here I won’t be playing from the start of every match. I respect and acknowledge the position these two players have in the team. They’re my friends and I admire them both. I accept that there will be matches where I’m on the bench but that’s part of playing for the best club in the world. That’s how it is on the national team as well. I don’t see it as, we have to compete against each

Why now. Why not last year or next year? It’s all about timing. I don’t think Arsenal was willing to sell me last year and after another season without any trophies I think they saw a need for changes. They felt they could let me go and I’m very grateful for that. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not like I was refusing to play if they didn’t sell me, but I did hope that they would listen to my wish and they did. I think this was the right year for me to join Barca. Are you relieved that you’re finally here? I never believed it until I actually signed the contract. I was frequently

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other. It’s going to be another long and tough season with many games in three competitions and also with games for the national team. So we need as many good players in the squad as we can get, because nobody is able to play 50 matches year after year. Would you rate your midfield as the best in the world? Let’s see. Thiago and I have been brought in to the squad. We have to prove that we belong here. It’s not easy to come here and go straight into the team. You have to look at which players you’re up against and for me it’s about playing in a new system. Okay, I know the system well from my younger days in Barca and with the national team so it shouldn’t be hard to adapt but I still hope people will have patience and not just think I can be the most important player in a month. How do you deal with the pressure of being named such an important signing at Barca? I know there are a lot of expectations and with that follows a lot of pressure. I think I’m capable of handling any pressure. I have learned a lot playing as captain at Arsenal and playing all the big matches in the Champions League and Premier League and also with the national team at the Euros and World Cup. So I know to keep my focus on the important things and not what people are saying about you. When you first start to let people outside your inner circle affect you, then you’re on the wrong path.

Your dad says you’re home again. Is that how you feel? I felt it straight away walking onto the pitch at the Camp Nou for my presentation. Last time I was there, I was in an Arsenal shirt and had just lost an important Champions League match. I felt the love from the fans and media when I came onto the pitch for my presentation, and I really appreciate it. This is where my heart belongs. I have known that for a long time, but I never knew if it would ever be possible to return to Barca. You’re now also back with some of your best mates. What will it be like playing alongside your friends like Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique? I can’t wait. It’s always been a pleasure coming back with the national team and catching up with the guys. But now I’m going to be able to see them every day and hang out with them. That’s something I haven’t been used to. I can visit my family in Barcelona more often. It’s really a great move for me also on a personal level. I’m going to enjoy being back in my town. You chose to get Fabregas on the back of your shirt and not Cesc. Why is that? Normally I would have put Cesc on it. In Premier League you have to put Fabregas on the shirt as you have to use your surname. When I played my first games for the national team, I had Cesc on the back and it didn’t go that well. As soon as I changed it to Fabregas, we won both

the Euro 2008 and the World Cup 2010. At Barca I considered getting Cesc on the back but then I thought about how it had gone since I started wearing Fabregas on the shirt. So I decided to continue with Fabregas and hopefully I’m going to win a lot of titles in that shirt. Why did you want to leave Arsenal as you have played at the club since you were a young kid? I needed a change in my life. We weren’t winning any titles and it was very frustrating for me. I didn’t feel like I was developing anymore as I should do. I want to be at a club that is able to win the big titles year after year and I don’t see that kind of future for Arsenal. I still have warm feelings for Arsenal, but I fear that they won’t be able to push the other big clubs in England away. If you look at the team this season I can’t see them finishing in front of teams like Manchester United or City. Or Chelsea. There’s just too big a difference between the squads. I respect that Arsenal doesn’t have the same financial opportunities as the others, but it was part of my decision to leave that I find it hard to see Arsenal winning the Premier League or Champions League in a near future. I hope they will replace me and the others that have left with some quality players and maybe that can take Arsenal back to their level as champions. How was it leaving Arsene Wenger, the manager who has formed you into a great player? That was one of the hardest things for me. I owe a lot to him. I still remember him quitting his family vacation to come watch me play as a 16 year old. I was so honored he came and that he saw things in me that I didn’t feel Barca did at that point. I felt I was standing behind quite a few players at Barca and I saw the Arsenal offer as a great opportunity. He’s definitely a person that means a lot to me. I thanked him for many great years together when we said goodbye, but I understand if he’s disappointed that I wanted to leave. I understand his

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frustrations because it’s not an easy job seeing a club like Manchester City getting every player they want because they have a rich owner. And how important do you think Josep Guardiola will be in your new role? Guardiola is a fantastic coach. He has taken a great team and turned it into the best in the world. That’s not that easy, I have to say. I had a lot of chats with him before signing the deal and I think I can learn a lot from him. I have always admired him as a person and as player and I can’t wait to develop with him as a coach. And what will it be like playing together with Lionel Messi? That’s one of the things I’m really looking forward to. Leo is an amazing player and without any doubt the best in the world. I don’t want to start comparing him with any legends from the past. I think he doesn’t need to be compared to others because he’s Messi and he’s a brilliant player. You captained Arsenal, any dreams of being the future Barca captain? Let’s wait and see. I don’t think it looks good if I start by claiming that I’m the future captain. I see a lot of players that have that potential in the squad, especially a player like Gerard Piqué. But I want to take it a step at a time. Last night I scored my first goal and played a good match and now I’m looking forward to playing in La Liga. What was it like playing your first Barcelona match against Real Madrid? It was really special. It was almost too much. I mean most players have to wait a while before they enter a Clasico and here I am in my first match. I thought the atmosphere on the pitch was quite hostile and I didn’t like the way it turned out after the red card for Marcelo. I didn’t like José Mourinho doing everything he could to provoke us. But I just ignored him. 36

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Do you think you will improve as a player on the national team being back at Barca? I think I will improve as a player and a person being at Barca. That will also affect my level on the national team. I’m fighting to be a regular there and my aim is to be a part of the team that is playing during Euro

FAB FOUR FROM NORTH LONDON TO THE CATALAN CAPITAL As midfield maestro Cesc Fabregas swaps his iconic number four Gunners kit to that of the blaugrana variety, ITYS decides to look at the four of the best players to play for both teams. THIERRY HENRY A legend in London, the Frenchman was unable to reproduce the same goal-scoring majesty that he displayed for the Gunners whilst at Barca – largely due to the fact that the Catalan giants often deployed him on a wing. In his last season, Henry only started in 15 league appearances for Barcelona, ultimately leading to the Frenchman being allowed to leave the club despite still having one year left on his contract. EMMANUEL PETIT Moving to Barcelona with Overmars, Petit’s time in Spain could not be seen as anywhere near as memorable as his team-mate. Shifted away from his preferred position in midfield and instead used as a defender, the Frenchman struggled to overcome a spate of injuries and settle in his new club’s system. Ultimately, Petit only lasted one season with Barca before moving back to the Premier League with Chelsea.

2012. I love playing for Spain and winning the Euros and the World Cup were the biggest experiences of my career. I enjoy winning titles and it always reminds me why we train so hard everyday and do so much. Because when you win the titles, it’s just worth it. GIOVANNI VAN BRONCKHORST Often injured and unable to consistently break into Arsenal’s central midfield pairing, the Dutch international was loaned to Barca – eventually leading to a permanent move in May of 2004 in a transfer reportedly worth 2 million euro. At the Nou Camp, van Bronckhorst won the League twice and also played a vital role in Barca’s iconic 2006 Champions League title win. MARC OVERMARS Another player who left Arsenal in a direct transfer to the Spanish heavyweights. The winger’s fee was in the vicinity of 25 million pounds, making him at the time the most expensive Dutch player in the history of the game. The man nicknamed “the Roadrunner” quickly became an important feature of the Barcelona outfit, despite never being able to lead the club to any form of trophy success. ITYS MICHAEL TARQUINIO

LIFE BEGINS AT Cristiano Ronaldo became a legend in Spanish football scoring 40 goals in La Liga and taking the record for most goals in just one season. But while most experts predict it impossible to beat that goal record, Cristiano Ronaldo insists he can do it. But most importantly he wants to steal the limelight away from Barcelona and win the major titles this season, as he explains in this exclusive interview. INTERVIEW BY JOSÉ LUIS CALDERÓN I PICTURES BY GETTY IMAGES

ooking back on your last season. Did you ever dream of scoring 40 goals in just one campaign and this was only in La Liga, not counting your goals in the Champions League and Copa del Rey? I would lie if I said that I wasn’t just a bit surprised that I ended up scoring that many goals in the league. I always try to reach 20 league goals in every season and everything else is just a bonus to me. I would say that 20 goals is a realistic figure in any season if I don’t’ suffer any severe injuries. So scoring 40 La Liga goals was just amazing. I can’t really explain why everything just went right for me, but I felt very confident every time I went on to the pitch.

What does it mean to you grabbing such an important record in La Liga from legends like Hugo Sanchéz and Telmo Zarra? Just mentioning those names you know it’s a great record. Everyone knows what these players have meant to Spanish football, so I’m very proud that my name is up there with a very prestigious record. I hope it will last many years and I’ll be remembered for doing something extraordinary in the world’s strongest league. I feel I have developed as a player at Real Madrid and it’s special for me to look back at a season scoring in almost every match I played. The only thing missing was obviously the league title or

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Champions League title. I’m happy that we managed to win the Copa del Rey, but I’m here in Real Madrid to win the biggest titles in football. The whole season, round by round, you had a very narrow run with Lionel Messi from Barcelona. But in the end you still managed to score ten more goals than him in the league. Can you explain how you view your rivalry with Messi? It’s only helping my motivation when Messi is playing well and scoring lots of goals. I would imagine that it’s the same the other way round. It’s something that keeps me searching for more goals as I want to be better and scoring more goals than Messi. I respect him because he’s a great player and he’s able to hold a very high level throughout a season. How will you prevent Lionel Messi and Barcelona taking all the big titles yet again this season?

I have been at Real Madrid for two seasons now and it hasn’t been any fun to see them win the big titles each year. I think the first step to beat them is to recognise that they have shown consistency where we have lost some very crucial points in matches we should have won. They are a great side, no doubt about that and they showed that beating Manchester United in the Champions League final. But every team in the world will face a crisis at some point and suffer. We have to be ready to take advantage of this and I’m confident it will be in the new season. We have to focus on our own team and not Barcelona’s. We can have just as good results as they, so we have to prevent failing in important matches this time. Can you feel the desire for winning big titles in the squad and in the club and which role does that play? Everyone here wants to win the biggest titles. Real Madrid is the

biggest club in the world and this club needs to win more trophies. I’m desperate to win a league title with Real Madrid because the fans deserve it, the coach deserves it and the president deserves it. We have a responsibility in the squad. Everybody believes in us, so we have to live up to the responsibility and win a big title this year. Our hunger for a league or Champions League title could be decisive in our run against Barcelona. What’s your personal ambition for this season just started? Do you think it will ever be possible to exceed last season on the goal account? I know there’s even more pressure on me now. There will be a lot of people comparing round by round in La Liga. When you play a great season, you’re often a victim of your accomplishment in the next one. People love to compare everything. How good is this Real Madrid team compared to the team that won the last league title? How

“It’s only helping my motivation when Messi is playing well and scoring lots of goals. I would imagine that it’s the same the other way round.” 40

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Spanish league because there’s only Real Madrid and Barcelona with quality in their squads. What’s your opinion to this statement? It’s simply absurd. I shouldn’t even be answering this because those people who claim this, don’t deserve the attention. I can only ask why nobody has done it before me if it’s so easy? Why hasn’t Messi scored that many goals in a season? Or other Real Madrid- or Barcelona players? You’ll always find people who have something negative to say no matter how good you perform. I honestly don’t care. I’m a good footballer today because I have learnt only to deal with opinions from the few people I respect. And they are? Myself. My coach. My teammates. My family. Those are the only ones I listen to. Not three billion fans worldwide that have an opinion about how I should play. Don’t get me wrong, I know there’s passion about football and that makes it even more exciting to discuss, but I have to focus on people I trust and know.

“I can only ask why nobody has done it before me if it’s so easy? Why hasn’t Messi scored that many goals in a season?” good is Cristiano Ronaldo this season compared to the last? I know it’s going to be difficult to achieve what I did last season, but that doesn’t stop me. So you actually believe you can exceed it? Why not? Last season reminded me a lot of the season I had with Manchester United in 2008 and after that season

everyone asked me, if I could do it again in Real Madrid. If we win the league title, I could end up scoring more goals than last season. I would love to hit 55 goals in total in one season. That would be remarkable for me. Some critics point out that you are only able to score that many goals in the

How important was José Mourinho’s presence for your great season? He was very important. He changed the system a bit and gave me a role where I more often get to shoot or get chances in front of goal. I have always had a great impression of him as a coach and he’s done well here at Real Madrid. The first season here is always hard for any manager and it’s almost impossible to survive the critics unless you win three titles. But Mourinho has proved that he works with this team so that we can win many titles in the future. The Copa del Rey title actually meant more to us and the fans than most people would expect. Defeating Barcelona in an intense final is always a boost for any Real Madrid fan. ITYS MAGAZINE

Some people suggested you were not satisfied with Mourinho’s tactics in the Clasico matches in April where Real Madrid met Barcelona four times in a short period. What’s your view on this? Mourinho has my support. He does what he thinks is necessary to win the matches. If I couldn’t support his methods or tactics, I wouldn’t be at the club. I respect him very much and there’s no problem at all between us. What does it take for Real Madrid to once again be the superpower of football and win the league and Champions League trophy? Football is a lot about phases. In one period Real Madrid is the best team in the world and wins everything. In the next it’s Barcelona or Manchester United. I think it’s mostly about stability. To win these titles, you need to have a team that’s been playing together for a while. That’s a big reason why Barcelona is winning a lot of titles. If you ask me, I think our team is starting to look very promising and a lot of us have been a part of the group for a longer period. The club have done well in the transfer market so far and not just bought ten new players, because they want to catch Barcelona. In my mind this team is ready to grab the big titles now. There have been talks about you leaving Real Madrid soon and maybe returning to England. How do you see your own future? When you play for the biggest club in the world and become top scorer in La Liga, there will always be a lot of talks. Football is a lot of times based on stories that media have invented. Some media believe to know that I’m tired of being in Real Madrid. That couldn’t be more far from the truth. If I was unhappy here and didn’t feel appreciated, it would be completely impossible for me to score more than 50 goals in one season. Football is not about individual players, but about 42

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the team. It’s the team that makes me better and sets up my goals. Would you bet on yourself as topscorer of La Liga 2011-2012? I think it will be a player from Real Madrid and it can be me as many other players here. I hope to repeat it one more time. I would enjoy that. What’s the difference between Sir Alex Ferguson and José Mourinho as a coach?

Both are remarkable managers and have great personalities. Ferguson is more behind his desk, but still very knows everything that goes on in the squad. If you disappoint him, you’ll know very fast. Mourinho is a fantastic detailed manager and an expert in tactics. He’s a perfectionist. He protects his players very well and is great at drawing attention away from the players and more on him with purpose. ITYS

Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking goal-scoring spree last season helped ensure that the Portuguese star’s name can comfortably sit in the history books beside some of the sport’s timeless best. In honour of his hefty achievement, ITYS takes a brief look at some of the other individuals that can boast the record for the most goals in a singular season in some of Europe’s biggest leagues. WILLIAM RALPH DEAN Better known as simply ‘Dixie Dean,’ the Everton striker scored a colossal tally of 60 goals in 1927-28 – a first-tier English football record that still stands today. Often regarded as the first striker to wear the traditional number 9 jersey, the goal-scoring legend is immortalised with a statue outside Goodison Park. GINO ROSSETTI Playing for Torino, the Italian international player claimed the prestigious Serie A capocannoniere award in 1929 – netting 36 goals. Looking like being an unbreakable record for the foreseeable future, the closest that any player post-World War II has got to breaking Rossetti’s mark was when Swedish striker Gunnar Nordahl bagged 35 goals for Milan in 1949-1950. JOSIP SKOBLAR The legendary Croatian striker netted a mammoth 44 goals for Marseille in France’s Ligue 1 in 1971, earning him the European Golden Boot award. In a career that included representing several clubs (including OFK Belgrade and Hannover 96), Skoblar finished with a total of 255 goals in 428 appearances. GERD MUELLER One of football’s most iconic names, Mueller scored 40 goals for German heavyweight Bayern Munich during the 1971-72 season. The man nicknamed “Bomber der Nation” (the nation’s bomber) finished his career at the club with a staggering 398 goals in only 453 appearances. HENRIK LARSSON Not surprisingly, the much-celebrated Swede’s name sits atop the table for most goals in a singular Scottish Premier league season, claiming 35 in only 38 appearances for Celtic in 2000-01. - MICHAEL TARQUINIO

“If I was unhappy here and didn’t feel appreciated, it would be completely impossible for me to score more than 50 goals in one season.”

ITYS MAGAZINE

AN { A to Z } OF SPAIN'S LA LIGA BY KIERAN PENDER – SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR

is for Athletic Bilbao, one of the oldest and most historic clubs still participating in La Liga. With a policy of only recruiting Basque players, the side has struggled to compete with the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid, but did manage to finish sixth last season.

is for who else but the mighty Barcelona. What more can be said about a side that has truly dominated European football over the past several seasons. And worryingly for supporters of other clubs, they don’t look like faltering anytime soon.

While the likes of Lionel Messi and Pep Guardiola are now lauding the credits, Barcelona owes much to Dutchman Johan Cruyff. The star was influential in the Catalan capital as both a player and manager, and firmly set the platform for today’s success.

IS FOR ARGENTINE DEFENDER MARTÍN DEMICHELIS, ONE OF A NUMBER OF HIGH PROFILE PLAYERS TO MOVE TO MÁLAGA CF SINCE THE CLUB WAS TAKEN OVER BY SHEIKH ABDULLAH AL THANI.

Spanish legend Luis Enrique played several seasons for Real Madrid, before moving to fierce rivals Barcelona and clocking up over 200 games. He has since managed Barcelona B, before signing on to coach Roma at the beginning of this season.

former Spanish dictator Francisco Franco underwent a campaign to ‘hispanise’ the names of football teams during his reign. Teams like FC Barcelona became CF Barcelona, while Sporting de Gijón and Racing de Santander became Real Gijón and Real Santander.

He’s only 40, but already Spanish manager Pep Guardiola has led Barcelona to trophy after trophy. His side completed the first ever sextuple – winning every competition available to them in that calendar year – and won the Champions League twice in three years.

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is for Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuaín, who managed 10 goals and six assists in 16 La Liga starts last season for Los Blancos..

is for intelligence. While the English Premier League is known for its speed and physicality, La Liga is much more about skill and technique – the thinking man’s football.

ANDALUSIAN SIDE REAL JAÉN ARE CURRENTLY PLYING THEIR TRADE IN THE SPANISH LOWER LEAGUES, BUT SPENT SEVERAL SEASONS IN LA LIGA IN THE 50S.

is for Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita. The Maliborn 31-year-old may not be as heralded as Xavi or Andres Iniesta, but Keita and fellow defensive midfielders Sergio Busquets and Javier Mascherano are vital to the Barcelona style of passing football.

is for Marcelo ‘El Loco’ Bielsa. The enigmatic 56-year-old impressed with Chile at the 2010 World Cup, and joined Athletic Bilbao at the beginning of this season. Expect madness to ensue.

the city of Madrid is home to four La Liga sides this season: Atlético Madrid, Getafe, Rayo Vallecano, and Real Madrid.

RUUD VAN NISTELROOY JOINED MARTÍN DEMICHELIS AT MÁLAGA THIS SEASON, AS THE CLUB ATTEMPTS TO CHALLENGE BARCELONA AND REAL MADRID FOR THE TITLE.

is for number one, La Liga’s place in the International Federation of Football History and Statistics’ ‘Strongest National League’ rankings.

LA LIGA IS ALSO KNOWN AS THE PRIMERA DIVISIÓN (FIRST DIVISION).

is for Sporting Gijón legend Quini, the six highest goal scorer in La Liga history.

is for Real Madrid and Spain legend Raúl. The striker played over 500 games for Madrid, despite starting off his career at rivals Atlético Madrid, and is one of the leading ever La Liga goal scorers.

After a very long wait, the Spanish national team is now unequivocally the best side in the world. Despite what FIFA rankings may say, the side that won the 2008 Euros, the 2010 World Cup, and is mainly made up of European club champions Barceleona, is the real team to beat looking towards 2014.

is for Moghreb Tétouan, a Moroccan club side who spent one season in La Liga during the Spanish Protectorate of Northern Morocco. As well as having this claim to fame, they also have the dubious honour of being the second worst club side on the all-time La Liga table, with 19 points from their lone season in the league. At least they have Cultural Leonesa behind them, who could only manage 14.

is for Italian side Udinese, who have helped Granada return to the heights of top flight football. The La Liga team were taken over by Quique Pina in 2009, who is Udinese’s Spanish agent, and last season ‘borrowed’ 12 players from the Italian side during their promotion run.

is for Valencia Club de Futbol, the wild and wacky club from the Mediterranean coast. With two stadiums, hundreds of millions of Euros of debt, a highly talented squad and a crazy coach, Los Che are certainly a team to watch.

Real Madrid have won 31 La Liga titles and came second 21 times, making them the most successful side in Spain. Don’t tell Barcelona...

Xerez Club Deportivo finished 20th in the 2009/10 La Liga season. The newly promoted side spent almost all season at the bottom of the table, and were promptly relegated to the Segunda Division.

s for Santiago Bernabéu Yeste, one of the most important men in the history of Spanish football. Bernabéu was a club member of Real Madrid from the age of 15, and during his life was a player, team captain, director, coach and president at the club. He is widely credited for Madrid dominance of Spanish football, and their stadium is named in his honour.

the Zamora trophy, awarded by Spanish newspaper Marca, is given to the goalkeeper who finishes the season with the lowest goals to games ratio. ITYS MAGAZINE

DON'T MIS TO NOVEMS THE NEXT ITYS LIVE END BER 7 100 DAYS OF OCTOB OF HARRY ER + JEDINAK OLIVER BO AND PO ZAN IC + MUCH

POVIC AT CRYSTAL P ALACE

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VOTING fOr The PFA WOMEN’S FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr

NOmINaTIONs aND VOTING fOr The PFA FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr aND The PFA hArrY KEWEll MEdAl

PFA AWARDS

2010/2011 Professional footballers australia

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Welcome from the Pfa President and Chief executive............................................... Page 1 Pfa footballer of the Year ........................................................................................... Page 2 Pfa harry Kewell medal .............................................................................................. Page 4 Pfa awards Committee .............................................................................................. Page 6 2010/2011 Pfa footballer of the Year – the Nominees .............................................. Page 8 2010/2011 Pfa harry Kewell medal – the Nominees............................................... Page 12 Pfa Women’s footballer of the Year ......................................................................... Page 16

socceroos Lucas Neill and harry Kewell enjoy a chat with former socceroos goalkeeper Bill henderson at the launch of the australian football awards in sydney on 29 march 2009 by ffa CeO Ben Buckley and Pfa Chief executive Brendan schwab.

The Pfa acknowledges the support of its partner, LUCrf super, the Pfa’s superannuation fund of choice and a proud supporter of the Pfa awards. LUCrf super is australia’s first industry superannuation fund, currently has over 172,000 members and $2.3 billion in funds under management . LUCrf super is well regarded in the superannuation industry and has been highly rated by two independent assessors of australian superannuation funds.

The Pfa also greatly acknowledges the support of fox sports and sBs in the announcement of this year’s nominees for the Pfa footballer of the Year and Pfa harry Kewell medal.

WElcOME FrOM thE PFA PrESidENt & chiEF ExEcutivE

brENdAN SchWAb Pfa Chief executive

SiMON cOlOSiMO Pfa President

WElcOME FrOM thE PFA PrESidENt & chiEF ExEcutivE

Throughout the football world, the most prestigious individual honour a professional footballer can attain is to be acknowledged as the best by his or her peers. With the support of LUCrf super – the Pfa’s superannuation fund of choice – Professional footballers australia is again delighted to launch the nominees and voting for the Pfa footballer of the Year, the Pfa harry Kewell medal for australia’s best male player under the age of 23 and the Pfa Women’s footballer of the Year. The criteria are simple: outstanding performances for club and/or country. eligibility is confined to a-League and W-League players (including foreigners) and australians playing professionally overseas. as ever, season 2010/11 saw Pfa members uphold the standards of their profession and their country across the globe. Our national teams fought out the afC asian Cup in Qatar, the fIfa Women’s World Cup in Germany, and junior tournaments in Uzbekistan, China, mexico and Colombia. Nominated players come from clubs in england, the Netherlands, Germany, the Czech republic, Turkey, russia, Japan, south Korea and, of course, australia. Who will be the great of our game to follow previous PFA Footballers of the Year, Mark Schwarzer (2010) and Tim Cahill (2009)? Or will mark or Tim again be voted as “the footballers’ champion”? Perhaps an a-League player such as matt mcKay can emerge from the 12 players nominated by the Pfa awards Committee, which consists of an elite

group of 13 of australia’s retired greats and most outstanding media analysts. Who will forget matt’s incredible season working in the midfields of the socceroos and Brisbane roar to reach an afC asian Cup final and lead the Queenslanders to their first a-League title at home so soon after suncorp stadium had been hit by the devastating floods? In addition to mark and Tim, previous winners of the Pfa awards make for exciting reading: • PFA harry Kewell Medal: Mitch langerak (2010), then of melbourne Victory now of Bundesliga champions, Borussia Dortmund; and Nikita rukavytsya (2009), then of Perth Glory, now of newly promoted Bundesliga giant, hertha Berlin; and • PFA Women’s Footballer of the Year: Servet uzunlar (2010), a fIfa Women’s World Cup quarter finalist a year after becoming an asian champion. The players to join these illustrious names will no doubt be a cause of debate for the fans. however, as the champion of the players, it is only right that the Pfa gives the more than 300 footballers based at home and in the world’s best leagues the opportunity to vote for their most outstanding fellow professional. We look forward to announcing the winners at the 2011 australian football awards to once again be held in sydney on 4 October 2011 in conjunction with football federation australia and football media association australia.

front cover: The three greats celebrated on the medals given to the Pfa footballers of the Year. The late Johnny Warren mBe aO, Joe marston mBe and harry Kewell.

PFA FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr The Pfa footballer of the Year award is the ultimate form of individual recognition for australia’s most outstanding professional footballer: • by being open to players plying their trade at home and abroad, including in the world’s best leagues such as the english Premier League and the Italian serie a as well as in australia’s own hyundai a-League; • by taking into account performances for both club and country; and • by being exclusively voted for by the judge the professional footballer values most highly – his peer. eligibility for the Pfa footballer of the Year award is limited to any australian eligible to play for the socceroos, as well as foreign players playing in the a-League.

NOMiNEES FOr thE PFA FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr The Pfa awards Committee has met regularly throughout the year to discuss and record potential nominees for the Pfa footballer of the Year. at the end of the season, additional nominees up to 12 can be included to ensure all deserving players are nominated.

vOtiNG FOr thE PFA FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr more than 300 australian professional footballers playing at senior level in an overseas competition and in the a-League will all be invited to vote for the Pfa footballer of the Year. This will involve voting 3-2-1 for three preferred nominees.

PFA FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr

Previous Pfa footballers of the Year, mark schwarzerr, 2010 (left) and Tim Cahill, 2009 (right)

PFA hArrY KEWEll MEdAl

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by taking into account performances for both club and country; and

The Pfa harry Kewell medal is awarded annually to australia’s best professional footballer under the age of 23. The Pfa harry Kewell medal is the ultimate form of individual recognition for australia’s most outstanding young professional footballer:

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by being exclusively voted for by the judge the professional footballer values most highly – his peer.

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by being open to players plying their trade at home and abroad, including in the world’s best leagues such as the english Premier League and the Italian serie a as well as in australia’s own hyundai a-League;

eligibility for the Pfa harry Kewell medal is limited to any australian eligible to play for the socceroos, as well as foreign players playing in the a-League. for 2010/11, the award is open to all players under 23 as at 1 January 2010.

hArrY KEWEll harry Kewell is arguably australia’s most famous professional footballer, and has been an inspiration to the youth of australia. his performances in the english Premier League marked him as one of that competition’s greatest players. he is the first socceroo to win the english Pfa Young Player of the Year award, the Uefa Champions League and the english fa Cup. his battle with injury is a stark example for all of the precarious and challenging nature of life as a professional footballer, and the mental toughness that is required. harry also served on the Pfa executive for 5 years from 2003 to 2008. his performances for australia are legendary. he starred as an 19 year old in scoring in both legs of the heartbreaking 1997 fIfa World Cup

play off against Iran, and scored the golden goal against Uruguay to take australia to the final of the 1997 fIfa Confederations Cup. his appearance from the bench in australia’s famous victory over Uruguay in sydney in 2005 turned the match, and he scored arguably australia’s most important goal ever: the equaliser in stuttgart against Croatia in 2006 that took australia to the round of 16 at the fIfa World Cup for the very first time. In 2008 and 2009, he led from the front to see the socceroos qualify comfortably for the 2010 fIfa World Cup south africa. harry continues to be a central part of australian international football, playing a key role in the socceroos reaching the final at the 2011 afC asian Cup in Qatar, only to lose by a single goal in extra time. It is with great pride that the Pfa presents this year’s Pfa harry Kewell medal following the announcement that harry will be returning to australia to play for melbourne Victory and excite football fans across the country in the a-League for the coming years leading up to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

NOMiNEES & vOtiNG FOr thE PFA hArrY KEWEll MEdAl Nomination and voting for the Pfa harry Kewell medal follows the same process as for the Pfa footballer of the Year.

PFA hArrY KEWEll MEdAl

2009 Pfa harry Kewell medalist, Nikita rukavytsya (left) 2010 Pfa harry Kewell medalist, mitch Langerak (right)

PFA AWArdS cOMMittEE

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The 2010/2011 Pfa awards Committee consists of some of the game’s greatest former players, journalists and football analysts:

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• • • •

Paul Okon (right) (socceroo captain who starred in some of europe’s biggest leagues including the Italian serie a and the english Premier League); Stan Lazaridis (socceroo and english Premier League veteran); Tony Vidmar (socceroo and veteran defender who excelled in europe especially at scottish giants rangers fC); Andy Harper (300 game National soccer League veteran and fox sports presenter); Mark Bosnich (aston Villa and manchester United great and fox sports analyst); Craig Moore (socceroo and Glasgow rangers treble winning captain); Zeljko Kalac (socceroo, Uefa Champions League winner with aC milan, and newly appointed sydney fC goalkeeping coach);

• • • •

David Zdrilic (socceroo who scored 20 goals in 30 appearances); Paul Trimboli (socceroo and south melbourne great); Francis Awaritefe (socceroo, 300 game NsL great and sBs football analyst); Dave Davutovic (London based football journalist); Michael Lynch, (chief football writer for The age); and Andrew Orsatti (esPN football commentator).

Pfa Chief executive Brendan schwab is the non-voting chair of the committee. The Pfa awards committee considered player performances from 1 august 2010 to 31 July 2011 for the 2010/2011 season.

PFA AWArdS cOMMittEE

Tony Vidmar (left) and stan Lazaridis with Wayne rooney during the socceroosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; famous victory over england at Upton Park, London in february 2003.

thOMAS brOich briSbANE rOAr (AuStrAliA)

tiM cAhill EvErtON Fc (ENGlANd)

brEtt EMErtON blAcKburN rOvErS (ENGlANd)

Club appearances:..........................32 Goals: ................................................6 minutes Played: ...........................2821

Club appearances:..........................28 Goals: ................................................9 mintues Played: ...........................2014 socceroo appearances: ...................9 Goals: ................................................2 Nominated: .............2009, 2010, 2011 Winner: ........................................2009

Club appearances:..........................34 Goals: ................................................4 minutes Played: ...........................2191 socceroo appearances: .................11 Goals: ................................................1

Thomas has been voted Player of the Year for Championship winning Brisbane roar and for good reason. Leading the a-League in assists by a significant margin, Thomas was a constant threat in midfield playing in every match of Brisbane’s title winning campaign. The attacking midfielder’s performances earned him a place in the Pfa a-League Team of the season and a well deserved reputation as one of the a-League’s best players.

Despite injury limiting Tim’s appearances towards the end of the season, he was still able to provide an outstanding contribution to club and country during 2010/11. he provided everton with his usual outstanding attacking midfield play, scoring 9 goals for the Toffees before departing to join the socceroos at the asian Cup, scoring twice during the tournament and playing an instrumental role in australia reaching the final.

Brett’s club and international record speaks for itself having spent more than the past decade playing at the top level in europe, including eight distinguished years at english Premier League Blackburn rovers. Brett, who sits third in list of alltime of appearances for the socceroos, played a heroic role for rovers during the business end of the season, helping them preserve their top flight status in a relegation battle that came down to the last game of the season. sydney’s gain is Blackburn’s loss as emerton returns home to play some of the best remaining years of his career in australia.

2010/2011 PFA FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr NOMiNEES The 12 nominees for the 2010/2011 PFA Footballer of the Year are, in alphabetical order:

MArcOS FlOrES AdElAidE uNitEd (AuStrAliA)

brEtt hOlMAN AZ AlKMAAr (NEthErlANdS)

JOSh KENNEdY NAGOYA GrAMPuS (JAPAN)

Club appearances:..........................36 Goals: ................................................9 minutes Played: ...........................2396

Club appearances:..........................28 Goals: ................................................ 4 minutes Played: ...........................2095 socceroo appearances: .................14 Goals: ................................................2 Nominated: ....................... 2010, 2011

Club appearances:..........................20 Goals: ................................................ 9 minutes Played: ...........................1440 socceroo appearances: ................... 2 Goals: ................................................ 2 Nominated: ....................... 2010, 2011

a regular starter for the socceroos and Dutch club aZ alkmaar, Brett has scored on the international and european stages in 2010/2011, netting for the socceroos at this year’s asian Cup as well as in the Uefa europa League at club level. With an enviable goal scoring record for his country, Brett has been a solid performer for aZ alkmaar ensuring the club’s qualification once again for european competition.

Josh continues to be a sensation in the J-League with Nagoya Grampus, winning the domestic Golden Boot award with a record of 17 goals in 31 games in 2010. having won the J-League championship last year, Josh has continued his form with 9 goals in 20 games so far in 2011, having recovered well from injury earlier in the year that prevented him from featuring in the asian Cup for the socceroos.

2010/11 Johnny Warren medalist and Pfa a-League Team of the season midfielder, marcos was also one of the a-League’s leading goal scorers for 2010/2011, netting nine goals in 36 appearances. The argentinean playmaker delighted adelaide fans all season with a combination of athleticism and flair, unforgettably shown with his individual wonder goal against Newcastle Jets, dribbling through their defence in a way that drew comparisons with legendary fellow countryman maradona and his famous goal against england in 1986.

(Note: International appearances current as of 1 July 2011)

hArrY KEWEll GAlAtASArAY (turKEY)

MAtt McKAY briSbANE rOAr (AuStrAliA)

lucAS NEill GAlAtASArAY (turKEY)

Club appearances:..........................24 Goals: ................................................ 8 minutes Played: ...........................1321 socceroo appearances: ................... 8 Goals: ................................................3 Nominated: .............2009, 2010, 2011

Club appearances:..........................27 Goals: ................................................ 3 minutes Played: ...........................2447 socceroo appearances: ...................8 Goals: ................................................0

Club appearances:..........................29 Goals: ................................................ 0 minutes Played: ...........................2111 socceroo appearances: .................13 Goals: ................................................0 Nominated: ....................... 2009, 2011

Despite injury hampering Kewell on occasion during 2010/2011, he certainly made up for lost time when taking to the field for Galatasaray, achieving a highly respectable goal tally for the number of games played, averaging approximately 1 goal in every 3 matches. representing the socceroos, harry was the second-highest goal scorer at the asian Cup tournament in Qatar, and was voted as one of the afC’s tournament mVP’s for his man-of-thematch performances.

Brisbane roar’s captain led his team to their first ever Premiership and Championship titles, playing some of the most attractive football the a-League has seen. The captain of the Pfa a-League Team of the season, matt also played a key role in the socceroos run to the asian Cup final, just missing out on the winner’s medal that would have capped a near perfect season for the midfielder, whose performances have rewarded him with a move to scottish giants Glasgow rangers.

solid and consistent are words commonly associated with socceroo captain Lucas Neill, and for a centre-half there can be no higher praise. Lucas is certainly not showing any signs of slowing down, and no more evident was this than at the asian Cup where Lucas led a formidable partnership with sasa Ognenovski towards australia maintaining the best defensive record of the tournament. The socceroo captain has lead his country by example and will undoubtedly be a key influence as australia embark upon qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

2010/2011 PFA FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr NOMiNEES The 12 nominees for the 2010/2011 PFA Footballer of the Year are, in alphabetical order:

SASA OGNENOvSKi SEONGNAM illhWA chuNMA (SOuth KOrEA) Clubs appearances: ........................20 Goals: ................................................ 2 minutes Played: ...........................1395 socceroo appearances: .................10 Goals: ................................................1 Nominated: ....................... 2009, 2011 Captain of asian Champions League winning side seongnam Illhwa Chunma, there are few players that can match the accolades and achievements that sasa Ognenovski has achieved in 2010/11. sasa was voted the afC asian Player of the Year, asian Champions League most Valuable Player as well as being chosen for the K-League Best eleven. The centre-half started every game of the socceroos asian Cup campaign, scoring against Uzbekistan on the way to the final, completing a remarkable season for both club and country.

MArK SchWArZEr FulhAM Fc (ENGlANd)

luKE WilKShirE diNAMO MOScOW (ruSSiA)

Club appearances:..........................32 Clean sheets: ..................................15 minutes Played: ...........................2790 socceroo appearances: .................11 Clean sheets: ....................................5 Nominated: .............2009, 2010, 2011 Winner: ........................................2010

Club appearances:..........................26 Goals: ................................................ 0 minutes Played: ...........................2335 socceroo appearances: .................13 Goals: ................................................2 Nominated: ....................... 2010, 2011

The most recent winner of the Pfa footballer of the Year award, mark once again produced a series of heroic performances for fulham fC in the english Premier League, helping the club move away from the threat of relegation towards finishing a highly respectable 8th and qualifying for the europa League through fair play. mark also held the highest number of clean sheets and fewest number of goals conceded at the asian Cup whilst becoming the socceroosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most capped player.

Luke has been a solid and regular starter for Dinamo moscow in what is a growing and increasingly competitive russian Premier League. his versatility and effectiveness in defence and midfield have shown what a valuable asset Luke has proven to his club, not to mention chipping in with the odd goal in his regular appearances for the socceroos against the likes of Germany in australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2-1 friendly win in march.

(Note: International appearances current as of 1 July 2011)

MuStAFA AMiNi cENtrAl cOASt MAriNErS (AuStrAliA) Club appearances:..........................23 Goals: ................................................ 1 minutes Played: .............................878 Young socceroo appearances: ......16 Goals: ................................................3 Olyroo appearances:.........................2 Goals: ................................................1 an exceptionally talented playmaker, it has come as little surprise that mustafaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services have been acquired by high flying German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund on a 4-year term. The Young socceroo will continue to excite a-League fans and gain valuable first-team experience on loan with Central Coast for the coming season before departing for the Bundesliga.

KOStA bArbArOuSES briSbANE rOAr (AuStrAliA) Club appearances:..........................33 Goals: ..............................................12 minutes Played: ...........................2652 Kosta had a truly outstanding season as part of Brisbaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s title winning team, being chosen for the Pfa a-League Team of the season and finishing second in the a-League scoring charts with 12 goals. The 21 year old Kiwi has signed a 3-year deal with russian club alania Vladikavkaz, wasting little time in continuing his form by scoring a stunning goal on his debut to the delight of his new club.

OlivEr bOZANic cENtrAl cOASt MAriNErS (AuStrAliA) Club appearances:..........................33 Goals: ................................................ 1 minutes Played: ...........................2920 Olyroo appearances:......................... 7 Goals: ................................................0 Upon his return to australia following stints at several clubs in the UK, Oliver has been a key part of one of the best midfield combinations in the a-League at Central Coast with his exciting attacking play down the left, starting in all 33 matches he played. Oliver has been named captain of a dynamic Olyroos squad as they set on their way to qualifying for the London Olympics in 2012.

2010/2011 PFA hArrY KEWEll MEdAl – thE NOMiNEES The 10 nominees for the 2010/2011 PFA Harry Kewell Medal are, in alphabetical order:

KErEM bulut FK MlAdA bOlESlAv (cZEch rEPublic) Club appearances:............................ 8 Goals: ................................................ 1 minutes Played: .............................452 Young socceroo appearances: ........ 8 Goals: ................................................8 following a tough time off the field midseason, Kerem has continued to be one of australia’s brightest prospects after returning even stronger to the mlada Boleslav side. The young striker delivered tournament defining performances and won the Golden Boot at the afC U19 Championships in 2010, and is a key member of the Young socceroos, playing every minute and scoring in the recent U20 World Cup.

luKE dEvErE briSbANE rOAr (AuStrAliA)

rObbiE KruSE MElbOurNE victOrY (AuStrAliA)

Club appearances:..........................26 Goals: ................................................1 minutes Played: ...........................2320 Olyroo appearances:.........................2 Goals: ................................................0

Club appearances:..........................23 Goals: ..............................................11 minutes Played: ...........................1643 socceroo appearances: ................... 7 Goals: ................................................1 Nominated: ....................... 2010, 2011

Despite leaving Brisbane roar in January to sign with K-League club Gyeongnam, Luke was still voted by his peers to the Pfa a-League Team of the season. Life in south Korea has gotten off to a great start for Luke, where he has been a regular at the back all season as well as appearing occasionally on the scoresheet, most recently in an emphatic 7-1 win over Daejeon Citizen fC.

The electric pace and goal scoring ability of robbie Kruse will be sorely missed by a-League fans as robbie’s stand out performances for melbourne Victory last season have inevitably attracted attention from europe, securing a move to German side fortuna Dusseldorf. robbie was the a-League’s 3rd highest scorer and made his socceroo debut at the asian Cup in Qatar, scoring his first senior international goal in the semi-final.

(Note: statistics current as of 31 July 2011)

MAthEW lEcKiE AdElAidE uNitEd (AuStrAliA)

tOMMY OAr Fc utrEcht (NEthErlANdS)

Club appearances:..........................15 Goals: ................................................ 5 minutes Played: .............................995 Young socceroo appearances: ........9 Goals: ................................................2 Nominated: ....................... 2010, 2011

Club appearances:............................ 9 Goals: ................................................ 0 minutes Played: .............................234 socceroo appearances: ...................4 Goals: ................................................0 Young socceroo appearances: ........9 Goals: ................................................2 Nominated: ....................... 2010, 2011

Despite suffering a serious injury midseason, mathew was still able to make a significant contribution for his club, scoring 5 goals in just 15 appearances for adelaide United from midfield, and as a result securing a fantastic move to German club Borussia monchengladbach in the Bundesliga.

appearing for both the Young socceroos and senior national team in 2010/2011, the rapid and technically gifted youngster has enjoyed a year not short of highlights. These include scoring a sensational free-kick at the Under 20 World Cup from 30 meters to secure a late point against ecuador, as well as appearing for Dutch club side fC Utrecht at famous european grounds such as anfield in the europa League.

2010/2011 PFA hArrY KEWEll MEdAl – thE NOMiNEES The 10 nominees for the 2010/2011 PFA Harry Kewell Medal are, in alphabetical order:

NiKitA ruKAvYtSYA hErthA bSc (GErMANY) Club appearances:..........................32 Goals: ................................................ 4 minutes Played: ...........................2288 Nominated: .............2009, 2010, 2011 Winner: ........................................2009 The winner of the inaugural Pfa harry Kewell medal in 2009, Nikita has gone from strength to strength plying his trade in europe, becoming a regular starter for German outfit hertha BsC and helping them secure promotion to Germany’s top tier as one of the league’s most prolific assist providers.

MAtt rYAN cENtrAl cOASt MAriNErS (AuStrAliA) Club appearances:..........................31 Clean sheets:...................................14 minutes Played: ...........................2820 matt’s performances for Central Coast last season re-affirmed his status as one of australia’s brightest young goalkeeping prospects, culminating in an outstanding Grand final performance when he became the first a-League player to win the Joe marston medal in a losing side. starting for the mariners throughout the season, matt was second to none in terms of clean sheets, and made the 3rd highest number of saves for his team.

(Note: statistics current as of 31 July 2011)

PFA WOMEN’S FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr In 2010, the Pfa initiated an important tradition for women’s football in australia with the inauguration of the Pfa Women’s footballer of the Year award. The player voted as australia’s best female footballer by her peers receives a medal featuring the image of matildas’ legend Cheryl salisbury (back cover). Cheryl’s achievements in the game stand alone. In a career of many highlights that included 151 internationals and almost 40 goals as a central defender, she led the matildas to the quarter finals of the 2007 fIfa Women’s World Cup, at Olympic football tournaments and was regularly selected for the fIfa World XI. Cheryl’s off field influence is just as impressive with her leadership and commitment to women’s football leaving a legacy for our next generation of female stars. Cheryl’s determination to succeed in

what was a challenging environment for her sport is something that we can all draw inspiration from. she also played a key role in ensuring that our elite women footballers came under the umbrella of the Pfa. Cheryl presented the inaugural Pfa Women’s footballer of the Year award to servet Uzunlar (opposite), a star defender for the matildas in their asian Cup triumph, who received 39 votes from her matildas’ team mates. (matildas captain melissa Barbieri was runner up with 29 with elise Kellond-Knight, the Queensland road midfielder 3rd on 26 votes). Unlike the men’s awards, a list of nominees is not determined by the Pfa awards Committee for the Pfa Women’s footballer of the Year. all female Pfa members are invited to vote on a 3, 2, 1 basis to determine the best female footballer of the year with the winner being announced at the australian football awards.

The matildas pose for a team photo before the international friendly match against New Zealand, may 2011.

PFA WOMEN’S FOOtbAllEr OF thE YEAr

2010 Pfa Women’s footballer of the Year servet Uzunlar in action for the matildas during the fIfa World Cup group match against equatorial Guinea, July 2011.

PrOFESSiONAl FOOtbAllErS AuStrAliA chiEF ExEcutivE:

Brendan schwab LL. B mBa

AddrESS:

833 Bourke street DOCKLaNDs VICTOrIa 3008 aUsTraLIa

tElEPhONE: FAx: EMAil: WEbSitE:

+ 61 3 9287 1888 + 61 3 9287 1760 info@pfa.net.au www.pfa.net.au

The image of australia’s most capped footballer- Cheryl salisbury- featured on the Pfa Women’s footballer of the Year award.