MCFCForum Magazine

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[INSIDE COVER]


CONTENTS 3.DEAR EDITOR 4.MANCHESTER CITY: IT‟S A FUNNY OL‟ CLUB 5.SEASON PREVIEW 7.SO, YOU THINK YOU KNOW CITY‟S HISTORY, HUH? 8.MULTIPLE CHOICE: AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT MANCHESTER CITY‟S ATTACKING OPTIONS IN THE TRANSFER MARKET 15.KEVIN HORLOCK INTERVIEW

17.THE ACADEMY: WHERE DOES IT GO FROM HERE? 19.TAXI! WHO‘S TAKING A RIDE? 21.MAN CITY AND THE HALF-NAKED WOMEN IN BALTIMORE

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DEAR EDITOR... DEAR EDITOR.....

Should Eastland's capacity be expanded in the near future? At the moment, the ground is about the right size for the demand over the course of the season. We didn't sell out every game. However, if/when we start to win titles we would/will easily have the demand to fill a larger capacity than the current 47,500 (ish). Therefore, we need to start planning now. I am sure the owners are already drawing up ideas alongside the £1billion redevelopment plan around the stadium. 60,000 could easily be accommodated and filled in a title challenging/winning side.

However, in most cases, the players aren't as good as we thought. A harsh critic would say Stephen Ireland was shown up when surrounded by better players last season. Whilst some will argue, investment will hamper the progress of the academy, playing and learning from world class players will only make those who do make it through even better players. Steven Gerrard made it at Liverpool in a team with good players. If you are good enough, you will play.

why we cannot finish third, if not second. That being said, this is City after all, and they have the curious knack of being able to shoot themselves in the foot. above would be a bonus.

Will there be a romantic element associated with the Europa League this time around? The year before last we had some fantastic trips to Germany and of course the barge trip to the qualification game

What is a fair, realistic expectation in terms of the season with our current squad? I suppose that would all depend upon how you look at it. There is no question that the squad is far stronger than last season's, as Mancini has purposefully gone for certain specific areas that desperately needed sorting out. But not only that, he has brought in players (Boateng being a prime example) who can play in more than one position, meaning that not only do we have cover, but the formation can be changed should Are our academy players as the need arise during a game. good as we felt or don't we However, what can we expect? I, care now we can in theory buy for one, do not believe we can win any player we want? the title this coming season, as it We do still care about trying to might be just a step too far, but I develop players into the first team. see no reason whatsoever as to 3

Many fans seem to have written the tournament off this time around with greater aspirations in mind. However, the current squad we have, accompanied by the hunger to win a trophy means that this should be high up on our list of things to win. We should also take into account how winning this will make our European Coefficient rise and help us become a higher seeded team. Thus making any future qualifying or group games in the Champions League more favourable towards City. ———————————————— Have a Question? If you have a question you‘d like

featuring, please send them to : editor@mcfcforum.com


MANCHESTER CITY: IT‟S A FUNNY OL‟ CLUB BLUEWOLF

In the 129 years of professional football in England, never has there been a team so strange as Manchester City. Throughout the entire history of the club, there have been more up‘s and down‘s, than half-price night on Sackville Street. Add to this, the infamous ‗typical‘ tag, and onlookers wonder if there is something a little odd with the club, because it has had fans who have followed them blindedly, without question, or hesitation, irrespective of what was going on. ................... The club has been relegated more times than I care to remember; they have had a German paratrooper play for them; almost gone bust several times; had a major fire at the ground; scored over a hundred goals and still

been relegated; beaten the best and then immediately got hammered by the worst; had managers who have lasted days; had a criminal in charge of the club; invited – and accepted – to play for Adolf Hitler; initially created by a woman; become the richest club, of any sport, in the World; done all they could to help their red neighbours, only for them not to help in return; won virtually everything all at the same time, only to win nothing for a very long time; almost merged with Manchester United; had seventeen players suspended in one season. The list is endless, and I could go on forever. But yet, throughout it all, we as fans have remained loyal to the club, and have been very proud to 4

do so, and done it all with a good dollop of humour. But, why? Well, I can honestly say, I have absolutely no idea. All I can say, is that in the twenty years I have been following them, I have seen them accomplish precisely squat, whilst seeing the Trafford Red Sox, go from strength to strength; but I have never wavered, and never backed down. I suppose, it takes a certain kind of fan to do that, and apparently I am not alone, because, as I said, thousands and thousands have done the exact same thing. So, perhaps, it isn't the club, itself, that are a little ‗funny‘, but us, the fans, and if that‘s the case, then I am quite happy with that.


SEASON PREVIEW COULSONTOM

Last Season: 5th Last Silverware: League Cup 1976 Stadium: The City of Manchester stadium has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment during the summer, with each area of the concourse tailored to the appropriate section of support. The South Stand can expect fast service of beer, whilst the newly formed Family Stand will have vast supplies of fizzy pop and fries. The biggest improvement that had to be made was more efficient and enthusiastic staff. Other changes see heated seats in the hospitality seats designed

to make a cold, wet uncomfortable evening more comfortable (from my experience in a Volvo with heated seats, was arguably less comfortable). There are no plans to alter the current capacity of 47,000, however, this season, record season ticket sales above 36,000 have been made, and the demand for an expansion is there. Plans for an expansion are expected to be announced at some point in the next 12 months. Work on a £1billion hotel and leisure complex will start soon. Revenue from this venture, if successful, is to be used to offset high player wages. Manager: Roberto Mancini made

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an immediate impact upon taking over from Mark Hughes in December of last season. Despite criticism from the media over the way in which Hughes was shown the door, it cannot be denied that it was the right decision. The fact that Mancini had been approached before Hughes was fired was in the best interest of the club, as it prevented a period of uncertainty. Fleet Street had contributed to Mark Hughes sacking, piling the pressure on the Welshman and they haven‘t let up since the change. Debate is rife as to who is in control of transfer policy; Brian Marwood, according to some, is in full control of transfer targets. Adam Johnson, for example, was a Marwood signing, but one hopes that a ―Dennis Wise approach‖ isn't the case across the board. Target Mario Balotelli, the Inter Milan striker, aged 19, must surely be a Mancini target. The minimum expected of this season is 4th place, and to achieve this, stamping out home draws against lesser sides and greater solidity away is required.


Transfer Activity: In: Jerome Boateng, undisclosed fee, Hamburg. The Berlin born 21year old is equally comfortable at both centre-back and at full-back. Part of the Germany national team that finished 3rd at the World Cup this summer. Aleksandar Kolarov, undisclosed fee, Lazio. Serbian left-back with an eye for spectacular goals. Often compared to Roberto Carlos, Alex, 24, is also an able left-sided midfielder. Yaya Toure, undisclosed fee, Barcelona. Kolo‘s brother Yaya, 27, won the treble with Barcelona in 2009 playing at centre-back in the Champions League final defeat of Manchester United. Primarily a defensive midfielder, Yaya is less restrained than Nigel De Jong. David Silva, undisclosed fee, Valencia. Following the exit of David Villa for Barcelona, David Silva was the next to leave debt ridden

Valencia. David, 24, has a fantastic record of assists in La Liga, though there are doubts about his fitness levels. Out: Martin Petrov, out of contract, Bolton. An injury hit 3-year stint after a £4.7million move. Arguably the performer of the sea-

son in 2007/08, appearances diminished after the signings of Robinho and then Craig Bellamy. Sylvinho, released. Making only a handful of appearances, his most memorable an FA Cup tie with Scunthorpe Age: where the Brazilian produced one of the goals of the season. Benjani, released. Scoring on his debut against United at Old Trafford will mean he is forever remembered.

Player Profile: Emmanuel Adebayor

In the Pipeline: Mario Balotelli, £20m +, Inter Milan. Roberto Mancini gave the 19-year old his debut whilst at Inter which Mario will not have forgotten. With the lure of Mancini making it likely that City will capture ―super‖ Mario. James Milner, £20m +, Aston Villa. A £20million bid was rejected before the World Cup, but now that James has informed Martin O‘Neill of his desire to join the Eastland's revolution, a fee between £20-30million should be agreed. David Luiz, £30m, Benfica. Chelsea are also supposed to be interested in the Brazilian star. The right footed centre-back can also play at left-back and in midfield. Fernando Torres, £60m, Liverpool. If Torres exits Liverpool, Chelsea is his most likely destination, but should Chelsea be unwilling to match a City bid and if Liverpool are wanting to sell, Torres could be wearing City blue come September. Possible Line-Up: (4231) Given; Boateng, Toure K, Lescott, Kolarov; Toure Y, Barry; Johnson A, Silva, Bellamy; Tevez. Season Prediction: 3rd 6

Age: 26 (Born: 26/02/1984) Height: 6ft 3in City Appearances: 31 City Goals: 14 City Assists: 3 Career Goals Ratio: 2.85games/ goal City Goals Ratio: 2.21games/ goal Interesting Fact: African Footballer of the Year in 2008 Did You Know: Manu was an unused substitute for Monaco during the 2004 Champions League Final defeat at the hands of Jose Mourinho's Porto. In 2006, he was Cup Tied and sat out Arsenal's Champions League Final defeat to Barcelona. Adebayor is the only player to score a hat-trick both home and away against a Premier League opposition in the same season, 2007-08 season against Derby County in a 5-0 home win and a 6-2 away win for Arsenal. Adebayor was a pundit for the BBC‟s World Cup 2010 coverage.


So, You Think You Know City‘s History, Huh? MCFCforum magazine is offering you the chance to win a signed copy of ‗Smith‘ from Manchester City fan, Mike Devlin It tells the tale of Albert Smith, an average man, going through life wishing something, anything, would happen, and that he could, perhaps, one day be someone. But then when it does, he soon wishes he’d never had the thought in the first place, as he is catapulted into the lunacy of space, encountering all manner of silliness, whilst being hunted by a madman intent on destroying him – once, that is, the madman has watered his plants and fed the fish. Ridiculously silly, this very enjoyable funny read is available for sale on Amazon. The book‘s website can be found at www.storyofsmith.com

Want to win a signed copy? But how well do you know your club? I guess there is only one way to find out, by answering these questions; other than perhaps cheating and looking it up on line – yeah, that‘s right, I‘m looking at you.

1.

Ivor Broadis moved to the club in 1951 from Sunderland, but for how much?

2.

Who scored the first goal in City‘s win against Górnik Zabrze in the European Cup Winners Cup final?

3.

The much hailed ‗Don Revie Plan‘ was first introduced by the first team in 1954 against Preston North End – what was the final score?

4.

This used to our crest. But which year was it introduced?

5.

Marc-Vivien Foé was on loan from which club?

6.

At 177, this player holds the record for most goals ever scored for the club. Who is he?

7.

He was born in India, and the son of a church minister, who joined City from Sunderland, for a fee of £7,000 – who was he?

8.

Who was the first £1m+ player signed to the club?

9.

Who won the very first ‗Player of the year‘ award?

10.

Who was the only Russian International to play for the first team, and how many goals did he score?

To enter, send your answers to the following e-mail address — editor@mcfcforum.com The prize winner will be drawn at the end of August and notified via e-mail, to be in with a chance of winning, you must answer all ten of the above answers correctly. Thank you and Good Luck!

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Multiple Choice : An in-depth look at Manchester City's Attacking Options in the Transfer Market SNOZZABLUE

Most football pundits would say that Manchester City has had an eventful start to this year's July transfer window, with three confirmed signings in Yaya Toure, David Silva and Jerome Boateng with a fourth almost done in Alexander Kolarov. The fact of the matter, though, is that things have only just started getting interesting in the blue half of Manchester. Things are starting to fall into place for Roberto Mancini as he builds a squad that he hopes can compete for a top four spot, and maybe even the Premiership title. One of the areas that has been identified as needing attention is in attack; Carlos Tevez is world class, and Adebayor, on his day, can be deadly, however, the team seriously lacks depth in this area and last season they had to rely on an often injured and inconsistent Roque Santa Cruz for cover. Santa Cruz spent far too much

time on the treatment table, while Adebayor had numerous run-ins with the referees, resulting in many games being lost to suspension, this left Tevez to shoulder much of the workload up front, a job which he performed with great distinction. However, if City are to be serious top four contenders in the upcoming season they will need to bring in reinforcements. Roberto Mancini's acknowledgment of this fact has sent the rumour mill into overdrive with the various media outlets releasing story after story about Manchester City's prospective recruits. Throughout this period there has been four names that have been consistently linked with the club: Mario Balotelli, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Fernando Torres and Edin Dzeko. It is widely thought that one, maybe even two of these players could end up signing for Manchester City before the start of the sea8

son, giving the team much needed depth in the forward department. So who are these guys and are City really interested in them?

On this Month... in 2003 City went top of the league after 2 wins and 1 draw in the opening 3 matches of the Premier League season. An opening day win away at Charlton was followed by a draw in the first ever league game at the City of Manchester Stadium. City then went top with victory away at Blackburn live on Sky on Monday Night Football. A Michael Tarnat free-kick the pick of the goals. It was a false dawn however, following an away win at Southampton on November 1st, City did not win in the league again until February 21st 2004.


Mario Balotelli The Stats Club: Inter Milan Age: 19 Goals: 11 Assists: 8

'

What Mancini Says We are always interested in good players. If Inter decide to sell (Balotelli), we will be there.'

What Inter Says "We are in a very privileged position having won so much and it‘s true that everyday we are receiving calls because everyone wants at least six or seven of our champions," "Balotelli is priceless. At this time, he and Maicon are not on the market. When and if there are requests, we will kindly examine them but they are not on the market. The interest in Balotelli from both Manchester clubs is real and very strong, but has not reached an official offer. There will be no meeting with City on Thursday." What Mario Says "[Roberto] Mancini? He is a great coach. He let me have my Serie A debut and I admire him very much, also because he is a friend," "On my future I always say, ‗I don‘t know‘. An important year is ahead of me in terms of my career." MARIO BALOTELLI PLAYING FOR INTER MILAN

Word on the streets All the talk recently has been about a transfer to Manchester with both City and United rumoured to be the front runners. 9

The papers are keen to have you believe that Rag Scum are very interested in signing Balotelli even though they don't have the dough to do it. There has also been talk of Chelsea being interested in the young Italian, with Carlo Ancelotti having plenty of good things to say. City, however, are the front runners for his signature, and despite all the noises coming out of Milan about Balotelli being 'off the market', there is still a strong feeling that if Manchester City, or another team, were to make the right offer, Inter would probably sell. That figure is thought to be somewhere in the region of 35 million Euros.

Verdict This move looks the most likely out of the four, Mancini wants him, Balotelli is open to a move which means all that is left is for an appropriate transfer fee to be discussed between City and Inter. Inter Milan are playing hard to get, but money talks and if City put up the cash then there is a very good chance that we'll see Mario Balotelli in sky blue next season.


Zlatan Ibrahimovic The Stats Club: Barcelona FC Age: 28 Goals: 21 with 10 assists in 41 starts 09/10 season. What Mancini Says "Ibrahimovic? In my opinion, Ibra is the best striker in Europe. It makes me laugh when people say he misses crucial chances." What Barcelona Says "The club doesn't need money. We don't want to sell Ibra. But if things get too complicated, there will be no option but to sell the player. However, that's not the intention of the club at this moment," What Ibra Says "I was a Barca player when I left (to go on holiday) and I'll be a Barca player when I go back," "I have four years left on my contract." "I want to congratulate everybody that has used my name, because it's fun to have been at Chelsea, at Manchester City, without having been there,"

Verdict Despite the great admiration Mancini has for the big Swede, both Ibra and his agent have been quick to shut down any talk of a transfer out of Barcelona. Ibra's agent even went so far as to say if Pep Guardiola was to entertain any talk of a transfer for his client, "[...] he should be in psychiatric care. It would be the decision of a madman" The club itself don't need to sell him, and that stance has been somewhat strengthened by the recent departure of French Striker Thierry Henry to the MLS. This link looks dead and buried and is probably the least likely out of the four.

Word on the streets There were many rumours about Ibra moving to another club when Barcelona signed world cup winning Striker David Villa at the start of the window, and that talk intensified when Mancini described him as the best striker in Europe. The big rumour was a money plus Robinho deal from City in exchange for Ibra, however these rumours have slowed considerably over the past few weeks and it would appear now that a transfer is unlikely.

ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC PLAYING FOR BARCELONA

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Fernando Torres The Stats Club: Liverpool Age: 26 Goals: 22 goals in 32 games 09/10 season

What Mancini Says "Fernando Torres is a fantastic striker," "But all the teams in Europe are interested in him. "Can we attract the top, top players, like Torres? I don‘t know, but I don‘t think so. If we finished in the top four, it would be better and eas ier to attract them," What Liver pool Says "He is not for sale and we don't welcome any offers for him. We want to keep him." We don't need to do it to pay off any debt. Torres is one of the great players and every club would love to have him. We have got him and there is no intention of selling him.'

FERNANDO TORRES PLAYING FOR LIVERPOOL

What David Villa Says "Torres isn‘t money focused so he would never join Manchester City. "But sure, Barcelona and Chelsea would be real options for him. He has proven he can score goals in England and Chelsea are the number one team there at the moment, so I suppose it‘s the option that makes the most sense. "He has been fully focused on the World Cup but in the back of his 11

mind he knows he needs to be competing for the very highest honours and if Liverpool can‘t do it he will have to move." Word on the streets A move away from Anfield seems a real possibility for Torres with his agent saying only that he will remain in the Premier League, while at the same time refusing to guarantee it would be with Liverpool. Chelsea is the club that has been consistently linked with the Liverpool striker, with the latest rumours suggesting a 50 million pound offer from the London club had been made. That was then countered swiftly by Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti's denial that the club wanted Torres, insisting that he already had enough strikers in the team. Then there's been various rumours linking Torres the City for fees of up to 70 million pounds. Torres, however is playing his cards very close to his chest and is saying very little with regards to his playing future. Verdict The future of Fernando Torres at Liverpool really looks to be hinging on their ability to convince him that they are going to be competitive in the upcoming season. They took a step in the right direction by signing former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, but that was countered when they lost Jossi Benayoun in the other direction, and things could turn out even worse if, as expected, Javier Mascherano leaves the club. As it stands the smart money is on Torres staying put at Liverpool, however a move to Manchester City can definitely not be ruled out yet,


Edin Dzeko The Stats Club: Wolfsburg Age: 24 Goals: 29 goals in 45 games 09/10 season.

What Mancini Says "Of course we aim to strengthen. Krasic or Dzeko? One really interests us, the other doesn't. Who? I cannot say What Wolfsburg Says "He is a world-class striker who is immensely important to our success," "We would love to keep him. "If you look at how prices have shot up for the best strikers in recent years - clubs are required to part with 70, 80 or 100 million Euros - we have to be happy to have one forward at that level." What Dzeko Says "I want to clarify that it is not a matter of money, but of ambition. I feel I have to take a leap in quality and play for a big club ‌ It is an important moment of my career and I also explained that to the leaders of Wolfsburg. "With them I have a wonderful relationship and I am sure they will fulfil my desire." Word on the streets All the talk has been for Dzeko to move to Manchester City with various reports even stating that he had agreed terms with the club, but all that talk came to nothing and all rumours of a move died right down for a period of time. Then there were rumours that Juventus had a strong interest in signing Dzeko, however, the Italian club acknowledged they would find it

hard to compete with City and their large transfer budget. The last reports to come out since then have hinted that Wolfsburg have priced Dzeko out of the transfer market with a figure of around 40 million pounds reportedly being sought for the Bosnian. Verdict The possible transfer of Edin Dzeko is now in the hands of Wolfsburg, and they appear unlikely to let the big front man go unless they receive a very large transfer sum in return. Manchester City would now be undoubtedly regretting their decision to not exercise Dzeko's ÂŁ32.5 million release clause when they had the chance. Wolfsburg have the upper hand and it appears unlikely that City will be willing to pay the asking price. While City retain a small glimmer of hope of still doing a deal, what appeared to be an almost certain transfer a month ago, is now almost dead and buried.

EDIN DZEKO PLAYING FOR WOLFSBURG

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So who will be the new strike partner for Carlos Tevez in Mancini's new and improved Manchester City? It would appear going on everything that we've heard and read that he will take a punt on the young Italian Mario Balotelli. It seems in recent days that Inter's stance has softened significantly in regards to his possible transfer out of the San Siro, and it looks like it's only a matter of time until a realistic deal is reached for the promising youngster. Will he be the only one of these four we sign? More than likely yes, however, moves for Fernando Torres, and possibly Edin Dzeko, still remain faint possibilities. Then there's also the chance of an out of the blue, surprise name coming up which we

have all seen before (Kaka, Eto'o, Terry). Another important question that has come out of all this is what will happen to City's current crop of fringe strikers? When the inevitable signing or signings happen, players like Jo, Caicedo, and even Roque Santa Cruz, will likely find themselves surplus to requirements and placed on the transfer list themselves. The much troubled Jo has attracted interest from Real Sociedad but only at a fraction of the price that City paid for him, Caicedo has been linked recently to West Ham, while Santa Cruz was mooted as a possible replacement for Dzeko were he to sign for City. Either way, whether they are transferred out

13

or loaned for another year it would appear their time at Manchester City is fast approaching it's conclusion. At the end of the day no one really knows for sure what's going to happen and who we'll end up with, but things certainly look promising that City will be an improved team right across the park come August 12th when the season kicks off at White Hart Lane. Exciting time to be a blue.


Nigel De Jong at the World Cup Final leaving his mark on Alonso

When Carlos met Noel Gallagher.

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KEVIN HORLOCK INTERVIEW BLUEWOLF

Firstly, thank you for taking the time incredible 108 goals during

Kevin Horlock: Football is a funny

to talk with us, Kevin, and without

business and difficult to stay close

Keegan‟s first season. What was

much further ado we will begin with your favourite moment during your

to people with all the moving

the first question.

spell at City?

around you do; but I do occasion-

MCFCForum.com: What went

Kevin Horlock: People will always

Whitley, Andy Morrison and the

through your mind when scoring

see the Wembley game as my

legendary Les Chapman.

the goal against Gillingham at

highlight, but the Blackburn game

ally speak to Richard Edghill, Jim

Wembley to bring the score back to you mentioned was also very spe-

MCFCForum.com: Well, moving

2-1 ? Were you confident that we‟d

cial, and I just watched the clips

on from that, you have played

get back into the match despite

and didn‟t realise how good a cross along side many gifted players dur-

being in injury time, or were you

I put in for the Goat!! The „99 sea-

ing your time at City in Midfield,

thinking that it was just a consola-

son was a great achievement as

including Kinkladze, Bishop, Ber-

tion goal?

we had put ourselves in a no win

narbia and Berkovic, who did you

situation, with promotion the only

enjoy playing along side the most?

Kevin Horlock: I have to be hon-

thing acceptable; so to play under est, and on a selfish note, I thought that pressure all season makes me its been a massive disappointment; proud, and I would be wrong not to but at least I can tell my grandchildren I scored at Wembley, seeing

Kevin Horlock: I sometimes pinch myself with the players I have been

consider the day I signed as a high- lucky enough to have played with, light, as there were lots of specula- and I am continuously name drop-

Gillingham‟s centre-halves cuddling tion about my future at Swindon, when the ball was down in our half, and a few clubs had shown inter-

ping to children I coach! But the

obviously made me think we had

est, but Steve McMahon told me to

which may surprise a few, is Eyal

no chance of getting back into it.

get myself up the M6 and I knew it

Berkovic.

MCFCForum.com: Well, following on from that, many consider the

was the right decision the first time I ran out at Maine Road.

1999 play-off final goal as your City MCFCForum.com: Are you still in highlight, however, you were intouch with any of your former team volved with many other highlights

mates from City? e.g. Nicky

such as the team that turned a 1 –

Weaver, the Whitley‟s, Mark Ken-

0 deficit into a 4 – 1 win at Black-

nedy, Danny Tiatto?

burn, and the team that scored an

player I enjoyed playing with most,

MCFCForum.com: You became City‟s official penalty taker during the 1998–99 season, how did you remain calm when called upon? Kevin Horlock: I never stayed calm, and missed a few! But I think it is important to pick a corner and not change your mind … I can see

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away to Gillingham, not sure

the last game I went to was when

which season though, Ali Benarbia City were away to Tottenham and played a one two with the Goat,

I was at West Ham, I must admit I

and I made a run then lifted Ali

sat watching the game with a little

Benarbia‟s pass over the keeper; I regret on leaving, but I always think it symbolised what we were

considered myself a good Cham-

about that season.

pionship player but an average Premiership player, so it was right

MCFCForum.com: There was a

for the club I moved on.

famous Gillette Soccer Saturday clip when Jeff Stelling was seen

MCFCForum.com: What are you

telling the world that you‟d been

doing now, have you stayed in

he fear in my eyes when I watch

sent off against Chesterfield for

football?

the play off penalty!

“walking aggressively towards the

MCFCForum.com: You played

referee” – Was this true and what

Kevin Horlock: I packed in play-

actually happened?

ing professionally two years ago, and now play part-time for a team

under several Managers during

your time at Manchester City, who Kevin Horlock: It is still a bit of a blur; I think there had been a was your favourite to play under,

called Needham Market, and have also set up a soccer school for

and who had the biggest impact

strong tackle on the half way line

children between five and four-

on your career?

which the referee waved play on

teen, where I do after school and

and eventually the ball went out

holiday clubs, and I also help

Kevin Horlock: I genuinely liked

and Nicky Weaver was getting

coach the football scheme at Suf-

playing under all the managers

treatment, so I started walking to-

folk College.

which is probably why I stayed for

wards the referee to ask why he

so long. I will always be grateful to had played on. As I was walking

The one regret I have with my time

Frank Clark for giving me the op-

towards him (and I might add I

at City is that I didn‟t get the op-

portunity to play for City, and Joe

hadn‟t spoken at this point) he

portunity to say goodbye to the

Royle took me to Ipswich later on

flashed a red card! I actually

fans like other players did, so I

in my career so he also had a

looked behind me, but he said “no

would like to take this chance and

massive impact on my career, and you, off you go”. When I got to the

thank every fan who supported us

Kevin Keegan was really honest

dressing room Jamie Pollock was

through thick and thin; I‟m de-

and treated me with respect when

getting showered after being sent

lighted at the situation at City now,

my departure came around.

off earlier himself, and he said,

no other fans deserve success more! … CTID … Kev Horlock

“what did you get sent off for?” to MCFCForum.com: You‟ve scored which my answer was, “I don't some crackers during your time at know” … I can laugh about it now. City, arguably the two best you scored were in the Playoff final at

MCFCForum.com: Do you still

Wembley and at home to Sheff

follow City? If so when was the

Wednesday when we hammered

last time you went to watch Man-

them 4-0, Which one did you enjoy chester City? and what do you most?

make of the position of the current team?

Kevin Horlock: The Wembley goal I didn't see as enjoyable at

Kevin Horlock: I consider myself

the time so I won‟t even consider

a City fan now, and look out for

that one. The one that gave me

results all the time, but I now live

most pleasure was surprisingly

in Suffolk so don‟t get to games; 16


The Academy: Where Does It Go From Here? TRIPP

Since its inception in 1998, we Manchester City supporters have been justifiably proud of our Academy under the leadership of Jim Cassell. In those eleven years, 31 players have graduated to the senior squad, with varying degrees of success; the first graduate, Shaun Wright-Phillips, is justifiably a legend at the club, despite an ill-fated journey to London. However, another graduate of ours is Joey Barton, whose picture can be found in the dictionary under ―disgrace to club and country.‖ Added to players like those who have made many appearances, that list of 31 has more than a few Terry Dunfields on it as well, i.e. those whose graduations consisted of one or two substitute appearances. This is more or less the story of any club's youth setup, but at City, it's fair to say that our love for the Academy stems not just from the number of players who we have brought through, but also from the fact that our survival as Premier League club since 2002 has had a lot to do

with these home-grown players. In the days of yore, before the big bucks and star names that came with Shinawatra and the Sheik, one remembers quickly that we were, at best, a midtable side that fought with relegation and money woes more often than not. With the lack of funds available to successive managers, they were forced to go to the Academy to fill holes in the starting XI. This worked to our advantage, for the most part: Nedum Onuoha, Micah Richards, Michael Johnson, and Stephen Ireland, to name but a few, all were able to make names for themselves, to the point that Richards and Johnson in particular were subject to intense transfer speculation for a time, from Arsenal and Liverpool respectively. As we all know by now, times have changed. The days of Manchester City being synonymous with small and bankrupt are over. We now boast the worldclass likes of Carlos Tevez, David Silva, Shay Given, and Nigel de Jong in our ranks, to name but a 17

few. To the initial glance, it would seem that now would be the absolute worst time to be a rising player in the Manchester City ranks. Despite The Star talent we now have at our disposal, however, in the past year we've seen manager Roberto Mancini bring four new talents into the first team, to make up a total of twelve Academy graduates still on the books at the club. Now, admittedly, two of these twelve, Kelvin Etuhu and Shaelum Logan, look like they will never be anywhere near the first team ever again, and in Logan's case it seems he will be moving on sooner rather than later. The rest of the ten, though, I think have more than enough quality to become important parts of the team over the next few years. Stephen Ireland, Micah Richards, and Nedum Onuoha all have proved themselves at this level, and despite bad spells last season for Ireland and Richards, I think they can recapture the brilliant form of old and make their marks on this team. In Onuoha's case, it baf-


fles me that Mancini continues to overlook him, given that he didn't really put a single foot wrong when he did play last season and scored a few cracking goals.

a starting spot. However, his future will be under continual speculation until such time.

Finally, the newest five graduates show the quality that our Academy Other established Academy names has to give. Vladimir Weiss made include Shaun Wright-Phillips and his first appearance in the last Michael Johnson. Wright-Phillips game of the 2008-2009 season has been a mainstay in this squad under Mark Hughes, playing the for years, forgetting the spell at last 20 minutes of a 1-0 win to Chelsea, but with the rise of Adam Bolton Wanderers. Since then, he Johnson and his increasing age, only made a pair of Cup appearShaun's position seems as unten- ances before going on a frustratable as ever. However, it must be ing loan to Bolton, where his playtaken into account how effective ing time was severely restricted by he was last season coming on as the form of Jack Wilshere and Lee an impact sub at the end of Chyung-Yong. Here is another games, with his raw speed unplayer with great talent, but parhinging more than a few tired de- ticularly after watching him play fences in the dying minutes. In for Slovakia at the World Cup, I that respect, he can still be useful think he has a bit of a confidence to us, though even with the inissue, but being only 21 years old creased number of games we'll be that is understandable. I'd expect playing with our qualification to him to go out on loan again this the Europa League, I would exseason, hopefully somewhere pect starts to be few and far bewhere he will get some more tween. game time, and come back to challenge for the right wing spot. Michael Johnson is the real enigma of these ten players. He This past season saw another four made his first appearance for the players brought through by first team in 2006, and generally Mancini, the most impressive of has been good, verging on the whom is undoubtedly Dedryck brilliant, during his time in the Boyata. He was suddenly thrust on squad, particularly under Sventhe scene due to injuries to startGoran Eriksson's tenure. However, ers Kolo Toure and Joleon Lescott, his time here has been continually and for his young age acquitted disrupted by injuries, to the point himself admirably, particularly in where he failed to appear for the the two Carling Cup semi-final legs team for the vast majorities of the against United. Of all these players 2008 and 2009 seasons, with the I've mentioned, I believe he truly exception of a few isolated substi- has a bright future for us. Rumour tute appearances, including a Cup has it that he will head to Southgame against Scunthorpe where ampton on loan this year, which he scored a wonderful long-range will do him well. shot. His talent is undeniable, and The other three, Greg Cunningwere he able to get mentally and ham, a left back, Abdi Ibrahim, a physically fit again, would, in my versatile midfielder, and striker opinion, be a serious contender for Alex Nimely have only had five 18

substitute appearances between them, but signs indicate that they have much to offer. Ibrahim and Nimely were, along with Boyata and Weiss, members of the winning 2008 FA Youth Cup team, and have impressed mightily in Under-18 competitions. I'd like to see them play a bit more this year before passing judgement, but as of now the signs are only positive. The moral of this story is that despite our newly acquired wealth, our Academy is not going to be left behind as it has at some other clubs. We have a manager in Robert Mancini who has a long track record of bringing young players through, and we have the talent to warrant his development policy. Along with the graduates mentioned above, there are plenty more young players in the Reserves and Under-18 squad that I think warrant first team inclusion, namely Kieran Trippier, Javan Vidal, and Ahmed Benali. Along with Jim Cassell's current project building new Academies for the club in Abu Dhabi and elsewhere, the future is bright for the young prodigies at Carrington, and I for one will be watching their development with great interest.


Taxi! Who's Taking A Ride? KEVEZ

Following my recent article title ‗£50 Million Summer Clearout At City – The Axeman Is Coming‘, I have decided to write a follow -up article on what impact our new signings could have on the future of certain other players in the City squad. Nedum Onuoha – I like big Ned, I really do, but for one reason or another he has been unable to be a 1st team regular - for whatever reason, for a sustained period of time - other than at centre-half in the 2nd half of the 2008/09 season. He has always had the ability, but has had terrible luck with minor

injuries at vital times, which have halted his progress over the years. The arrival of the impressivelooking Jerome Boateng from HSV Hamburg this summer, has placed even more media attention on the future of Onuoha, particularly seeing as Boateng can play at full-back and centre -half, the same positions as Onuoha. Plus in addition to this, we also still have Micah Richards and Pablo Zabaleta, who can also play at right-back and Kolo Toure, Joleon Lescott and Vincent Kompany who also play at centre-half. His interview on Soccer AM at the end of last season also probably did him no favours with the current manager, Roberto Mancini. Verdict – I expect to see Onuoha heading to either Aston Villa, Everton or Sunderland for a fee of around £5 million by the end of August. 19

Wayne Bridge – I was really happy when we signed Bridge, as I always had a certain amount of sympathy for him as he was always having to play second fiddle to Ashley Cole at Chelsea and England respectively. However, he has been a major disappointment for me as he is really lacking in pace, and despite defending being the most important area of his role, he is very poor at going forward as further evidenced by a pressing stat from last season; a total attempt of 50 crosses into the oppositions box with a grand total of zero finding a team mate. This is even more embarrassing when you consider that he started his career as a left-sided midfielder at Southampton. The recent signing of the 24 year-old Serbian international, Aleksandar Kolarov from Lazio, has placed further emphasis on the future of Bridge, but will he be happy to end up in a backup role like he did at Chelsea again at this stage of his ca-


reer? I have a feeling that Javier Garrido will be far happier to sit on the bench as our 2nd choice left-back. Verdict – Despite Roberto Mancini‘s insistence that he wants two top class players for every position, I just don‘t think that this is possible no matter what wages we are prepared to pay, as the good players want to play in every match. If Liverpool firm up their alleged interest in Bridge with a concrete offer of around £8 million, then I could see him ending up at the Anfield club by the end of next month.

and less. This story was made public by his adopted father, Ian Wright in his column in The Sun, and in fairness it did SWP no favours whatsoever. I even viewed a rare appearance from SWP away at West Ham on the last day of last season as a farewell appearance and goal, as he seemed to fall out of favour under Mancini.

last season, was deservedly named in the Premier League's team of the season following an impressive loan spell at Birmingham City. But just why did the club go and award Stuart Taylor a new 2 year contract just 9 days after releasing him? Either we had a quick change of heart and are being extra cautious, seeing that it was still fresh in the mind that Given had badly The emergence of Adam Johninjured his shoulder away at Arson last season, in addition to senal at the end of last season, the recent signing of David Silva, or we are planning for life withwould seemingly indicate that out 1 of our number 1 goalkeepSWP will struggle to break into ers. Joe Hart is 23, Shay Given is the side, even more so if Craig 34, so there should only be 1 Bellamy also remains at the club. winner in this contest should it come to that as we prepare for Verdict – Spurs are one of the the future challenges that lie clubs who are credited with hav- ahead in the seasons to come. ing an interest in SWP, but I think that they have even less Verdict – I see Joe Hart winning need for him than we do. He the battle to be our number 1 could well remain a peripheral fairly convincingly, and I doubt figure at City, although I would- that Given will wish to sit on the n‘t rule out a move to Liverpool bench week-in, week-out at this now that their new manager Roy stage of his career. I‘m not exHodgson is reportedly keen on pecting anything to happen signing British players. quickly here, but I could see a January departure being on the Shay Given – This one is percards. Arsene Wenger at Arsenal haps more controversial, but appears to be the Premier where goalkeepers are conLeague manager most pressing cerned, 2 can never fit into 1. in the need for a No. 1 goalThere has never been any doubting of Givens ability to keep shots out of the net, but he isn‘t the biggest and doesn‘t have a commanding enough presence in the penalty area. His distribution also seemed to go to pot in the second half of last season.

Shaun Wright-Phillips – SWP was brilliant in his first spell at the club, but we were a poor side back then. He left us for Chelsea and really struggled to make an impact at the Stamford Bridge club. He promised a lot on his return to City with 2 goals on his ‗2nd club debut‘ in a 3-0 win away at Sunderland, and had some other decent performances in his first season back at the club. However, last season he was best remembered for wanting an improved contract on vastly improved terms, despite We also have the return of Engthe fact that he was playing less land's great hope, Joe Hart, who, 20


Man City And Half-Naked Women In Baltimore MERLIN

To travel from Jacksonville, FL, to Baltimore, MA, is no small undertaking. It takes time and dollars, including flights, hotels, and tickets. The last time I attended a live City game was at CoMS in 2003, when City beat Aston Villa 4-1, including an Anelka hat-trick. Alas, the City v Inter Milan game was nowhere near as exciting. Friday evening I rushed to the training session, for which the Ravens had the audacity to charge for. I was assured that it would be open seating and there would be an opportunity to interact with the players; but neither was to be the case. The ―open seating‖ was in a

controlled area of the ground conveniently located opposite the area the players congregated. The players had about 55 minutes of training exercises, before punting a few balls into the spectators and running off to whatever they had planned for the evening; they didn‘t come over to our side of the field, which I thought was extremely disappointing. If this tour was meant to engender USA support, this was not the way to do it. During the training Bellamy looked the most lethal in front of goal, and Given looked the most accurate at goal kicks.

I spoke to some City fans on Saturday evening, and they had bumped into Given, Bellamy and Johnson in a local restaurant in Downtown. Apparently, Given was the most engaging, but all were friendly; photos were refused though. Even more bizarrely, the same group were stopped by Mike Summerbee in a limo who asked them if they support City and took some photos with them - I had no lucky encounters like that. The weather was spectacular; clear blue skies and temperatures in the high eighties (30 Celsius for the initiated). Interestingly, the two big events in Baltimore that weekend were our match and Otakon, an Anime convention. Now the latter was fascinating, because there were a lot of hot chicks wandering around scantily clad in the name of geekiness. Both events combined were estimated to bring $40 million tourism revenue into the city. I spent no where near that, so it must have been someone else. By evening, soccer shirts were out in force from numerous clubs and

21


countries. From the Premiership alone I spotted shirts new and old including City, United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool. It was interesting to note that fans of numerous nationalities were lured to the game, some to see specific players, and others just to see some decent football. The total crowd was over 36,000, which was quite impressive really. Alas, the atmosphere in the ground was incoherent. City fans were definitely out numt bered by Milan fans, probably because Baltimore was colonized by Italians. And as City withered and died with 10 men and few ideas, even the neutrals lent their support to Milan. I was particularly frustrated by a group a old guys sitting immediately behind me treating the match like a baseball game, and talking throughout in typical loud American voices ... about baseball!!! The sending off of Vieira was a travesty, not just for City, but for me, too. I had so looked forward to this game, but the match was ruined with the sending off. Inter Milan is a great team, and a good City performance against them was all I was hoping for, but we were always going to struggle with only 10 men. The incident

tunity for more detailed analysis of performances, but I felt two players stood out for me, and they were the home grown talents of SWP and Richards. Ade played well, worked hard and really should have scored that early opportunity. When we were reduced to 10 men he had a lone role, and the Milan defence closely policed him. Jo was so anonymous I‘d forgotten he was was bizarre from my perspective, on the pitch until he was substiwith Vieira leaping for a high ball tuted. AJ showed glimpses of powith Matterazzi, and the latter tential, and Yaya is going to be falling as if he‘d been shot by a enormous for us, I think. I don‘t rifle. The ref issued a red with no know what was up with Komhesitation, and from then on City pany, but he was clattering into failed to get a shot in until SWP the heels of Milan‘s attackers, sparked some life into City‘s ateventually drawing a yellow card tack later on. City were literally and a little scuffle. We really steamrollered, and it got worse need to settle on our defence. as the game progressed. Ironically, when Milan were 2-0 up, I I wish I had chance to see City noted that Milan had 11 men be- play with 11 men. Despite the hind the ball defending. That‘s result, it should be remembered Italian for you. by any despondent City fans that the team playing in America is not the finished article. In particular two very important players that catalysed our season last year were missing … namely De Jong and Tevez. I think De Jong should play instead of Barry, who had another disastrous game. We are still waiting to see Boateng, Kolarov and Silva in a City shirt, and we are wondering if the Balotelli move will come to fruition. The addition of these six players will completely change our team, hopefully for the better. It is unfortunate that the season is rapidly approaching and Mancini A lot of you will have seen the hasn‘t had the opportunity to game or the highlights on TV, so work with all his players. But I I won‘t discuss performances in guess that‘s true of all the top great depth. The benefit of clubs. watching on TV gives the oppor22


[END]

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