Gate leave it late as they down Wingate

Margate recorded a second home win in a week to end a turbulent few days which had seen a 3-0 defeat away at Lowestoft just days before joint manager Craig Holloway stepped down from his role.

The 'Gate' knew they needed to start quickly against Wingate & Finchley who found themselves below the Blues in the Ryman Premier League table before kick-off.

The game started quickly, however for the home side it was a disastrous opening minute as the visitors fired in a long range effort which was carelessly spilled into the net by Holloway who remains Margate number one despite stepping down as joint manager.

The home side looked more threatening than there last fixture and they found themselves level in the tenth minute as Matt Bodkin calmly slotted home from 12 yards after Charles Ademano was chopped down in the box. With Simon Osborn seemingly taking full control of first team affairs, the Blues looked lively going forward.

Ademano caused Wingate problems with his direct running at the defence, while Matt Bodkin playing in a more attacking role also looked to add to his tally. Phil Walsh who has struggled to score goals of late was also a handful as he won header after header to cause the visitors back line even more trouble.

It was the work of Walsh which assisted as Margate took the lead just five minutes before the break. A fine corner was swung in with Walsh rising highest, only to see his header crash back off the post but only to the feet of Gary Borrowdale who calmly prodded the ball home to make it 2-1.

The Gate would have hoped to hold onto their lead until half-time, however the visitors had other ideas as Bobby Aisen fired home from 12 yards after Leon Smith had been hacked down after a mazy run into the home sides box.

The second half didn't live up to the first as both sides failed to carve out any open opportunities. It was the home side who created the best of the opportunities as Walsh and Bodkin came closest.

Osborn wasn't to go without a win in his first game in charge as the Gate struck the winner in the 84th minute with the goal coming from an unlikely source.

It was Richard Avery who was released down the centre before seeing his fierce effort parried, but only back to his feet as he slammed home the winner to send home support into a frenzy as they celebrated a second straight home win.

The win saw Margate move up to 9th in the table and just eight points behind the Ryman Premier League play-off places.

After the game new manager Simon Osborn admitted the play-offs were his aim: "We have to aspire to be the best we can. We targeted the play-offs at the start of the season and that's where we want to be at the end of the season."

Speaking about a turbulent few days at the club Osborn said: "I don't think Craig's decision had an effect. It was something Craig had been mulling over for a few weeks. Craig's time as a manager will come but for now he has some other plans and management obviously takes up a lot of your time."

"Craig is still young, he is still by no doubt the best keeper in this league."

Ryan Dolby was also pleased with a second home win within a week: "It was a good three points. We played well in spells but we grinded out the win and that's fantastic for the football Club."

"Craig's departure as joint manager didn't effect us. He is still a big character within the dressing room, it just means Simon might have to plan a bit more on his own but it wont effect us."

Margate welcome Canvey Island to Hartsdown Park on Saturday as they look for their third consecutive home win.

Could Hodgson be set to bring JT back?

Since retiring from international football in September, pundits and fans alike have called for England boss Roy Hodgson to pick up the phone and see if he can tempt Chelsea star John Terry out of international retirement ahead of the 2014 World Cup.

But will Hodgson try and tempt the 78 time capped defender out of retirement? All signs at the moment suggest not. Hodgson only yesterday said there would be no surprises in his selection for the World Cup in Brazil.

Hodgson defended the current centre-back pairing of Phil Jagielka and Gary Cahill. The pair started the crucial final games together in the qualifying period after Terry's retirement, however they did endure some fierce criticism from fans despite England going onto qualify by finishing top of a difficult group.

Against Poland, despite winning 2-0, England's back line were caught all too often on the break. If Robert Lewandoski was in his usual form then there is no doubt that the game wouldn't have finished so comfortably for the Three Lions.

Hodgson has said he has no intention on picking up the phone and calling Terry. He has faith in his current centre-backs and that must be applauded. He believes in them and he urges the fans to believe in them as well. Hodgson knows that going back to England's old boys at each tournament could only see a return to their usual failings.

It wouldn't be the first time England have turned to a retired international for the tournament should Hodgson make the call. In 2010, former England Manager Fabio Capello called upon Jamie Carragher to join the squad despite not playing a single minute during the qualifiers. Carragher found himself thrust into the major tournament and he suffered, England suffered and another miserable campaign come and went.

There are two sides to every argument and these two arguments are very good. Firstly, it wouldn't be fair on Cahill and Jagielka if they missed out on the World Cup because Terry was recalled just for the tournament. The centre-backs have been reliable if nothing more, and Hodgson should remember that when it comes to naming his 23 man squad.

Of course there is a flip side to this, Jagielka and Cahill have been caught out in the qualifiers a few times, thankfully not causing any real disasters, however against the likes of Spain, Brazil, Germany and Holland you have to wonder if they are competent enough to do a solid job.

Calling on Terry would mean experience, it would mean a leader, it would mean a commanding centre-back who has proven against the worlds best he can do a fine job. The Chelsea man though has been troubled of late with injury problems which are likely to do his cause no good.

I think it is time England left behind some of the old guard that they rely on time and time again and fail with. This is the chance of Jagielka and Cahill, they need time to grow and blossom into England's centre back pairing for the next four years.

'No surprises' insists Hodgson

After back to back defeats at Wembley for the first time in 36 years, many England fans wouldn't have been filled with too much confidence ahead of the World Cup in Brazil next summer, however England boss Roy Hodgson today insisted 'what you saw is what you will get'.

Hodgson effectively used two different sides against Chile and Germany last week, however a lack of attacking prowess and still some defensive frailties were again highlighted as the Three Lions laboured to two very disappointing defeats.

The 2-0 defeat against Chile last Friday was harsh, England dominated, they played some neat football, however a lack of striking instinct cost them. Germany was a different story, the visitors dominated and outclassed Hodgson's men. Thankfully Hodgson had Joe Hart in goal who was ready to show the world and his Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini just how good he really was.

Despite those defeats, Hodgson has said today he will stick by the players that got England to the finals in Brazil. It will be music to the ears of both Gary Cahill and Phil Jagielka who have come under scrutiny of late, with several pundits and supporters calling for the recall of Chelsea defender John Terry who retired from International football last year.

It will also be music to the ears of Southampton trio Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez who Hodgson admitted had forced their way into his plans after impressing in the friendlies.

The news will not have been so pleasing for the likes of Andy Carroll who has not played for England for almost a year after struggling with injury problems. The West Ham striker will have limited time to impress Hodgson and prove he is worthy of a spot on the plane.

Roberto Martinez shared his wisdom this week when he told Everton midfielder Ross Barkley to forget about playing at the World Cup but rather spend his time on concentrating on his club form which has been impressive so far, helping him earn his three England caps.

Martinez warned: "We all know in football a week can be an eternity so next summer is a long way to worry about." The Everton boss is right and the emergence of Barkley and Townsend are proof of it. Needing to win their final two group games, Hodgson turned to Barkley and Tottenham winger Andros Townsend and it worked a treat despite having very little Premier League experience.

With just 26% of players in the Premier League being English, the England job is tough. Hodgson says he wont surprise and we shouldn't be expecting to see another young starlet propelled into the England limelight for Brazil, but you just never know.

It seems Hodgson will go with the tried and tested in Brazil, however, we want to know if you could pick one player to go as part of the England squad next summer who hasn't featured as of yet then who would it be?

'Gate' earn points as Robins remain rooted

Margate FC recorded their first win in the Ryman Premier League since the beginning of September as they beat basement side Carshalton Athletic at Hartsdown Park in front of a crowd of just 82.

With England facing Germany at Wembley and the blustery winds making it feel like temperatures had plummeted to sub zero, the home side knew there was never going to be a high number through the turnstiles, however the figure would have no doubted disappointed.

The 'Gate' did very little in the first half to repay those fans that had stuck by the side that hadn't won in the League since recording a 1-0 away win at play-off chasing Wealdstone on the 5th September. The visitors showed their game plan from the beginning as they got men behind the ball and attacked when they could.

It was the visitors that shaved the better of very few chances in the first half, however 'Gate' player/manager Craig Holloway wasn't to be beaten as he pulled off two sublime saves in the opening 30 minutes to keep the scores level at 0-0.

While Holloway remained resolute in goal, the home side looked very lacklustre in any attacking moves and probably had their number one to thank for going in level at half-time.

Whatever Holloway and Simon Osborne said at half-time certainly worked as Margate came out having stepped up their work rate and creativity. The obvious improvement came via the Kent sides two Greek midfielders Jack Summoutis and Giannoulis Fakinos who's constant searching passes and vision were key to some much better play by the home side.

It looked though as the minutes ticked by that the home support would be going home frustrated as Phil Walsh who's work rate couldn't be questioned continued to be frustrated up front on his own as the 'Gate' went in search of the three points.

However, with 71 minutes on the clock the home sides pressure finally told as Fakinos delivered a fine angled ball to the fast post where the towering Walsh cushioned the ball to the feet of Defender Gary Borrowdale who couldn't miss from just four yards.

Despite the Leagues basement side threatening with a few half chances, Margate comfortably saw out the final 19 minutes with relative ease as the Carshalton drought in front of goal continued with still just 14 League goals scored so far this season.

After the game Margate joint manager Holloway said he was pleased to earn the much needed three points.

"It's been a difficult few weeks with results, we gave the lads a kick up the backside at half time and the work rate improved in the second half."

We looked lacklustre in the first half but obviously what we said at half-time gave the boys a lift and our second half was a lot better" added the 29 year old.

Holloway was named man of the match after keeping his side in the game in the first half, however the gaffer thinks there might have been something else to it.

"I think I have done quite well this season in goal, but my friend Paul was sponsoring the game so he might have been being a bit bias with that decision."

The boss was also happy to see Borrowdale on the scoresheet, despite being a defender.

"Ideally you want all your players getting on the scoresheet to take that pressure off your strikers but credit to Phil Walsh he has been our best player over the last few weeks.

"He is winning plenty of balls in the air and bringing other players into the game so a lot of credit must go to him."

With the attendance at just 82, Holloway urged the Margate supporters to come out in their numbers to help the Club achieve their promotion ambitions.

"It's always a quiet game when England play but we need them to get behind us to help us get to where we think we can get this club, but I am sure that will come if we keep winning games."

Margate climbed to 10th in the Ryman Premier League and travel to seventh placed Lowestoft on Saturday.

Terrific Townsend puts England on verge of World Cup

Roy Hodgson surprised almost everyone last night as he handed Tottenham midfielder Andros Townsend his first start in an England shirt. The 22 year old was given the task of producing down the right hand side in what was Hodgsons most crucial test yet as England manager.

It had been a tough week for the manager with comments from Harry Redknapp suggesting that Hodgson wasn't first choice in the eyes of the people last year when a 'clueless' FA turned to Hodgson instead of himself. The pressure was hyped again just a few days after though as the manager then had to leap to the defence of Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere who claimed only English players should play for England.

Hodgson handed both scenarios as we would have come to expect from a man that has so much experience in the game, calmly, gracefully but more important, he handled it right. When Hodgson handed in his team sheet last night there is no question that eyebrows all around Wembley and further afield were raised.

It was a must win for England if they want the opportunity to take part in Brazil 2014, and after a tense goalless first half it was time for Hodgson to deliver one of his most important half time speeches. He kept faith with Townsend who had looked bright and it was about to pay off as the Spurs winger delivered a breath taking second half performance that would have the top defenders around the world trembling with fear.

Just three minutes into the second half Townsend set off on a mazy 30 yard run down the right before delivering a perfect ball which allowed Wayne Rooney to put the hosts in front. England then doubled their advantage as Branko Boskovic put the ball in his own net.

Montenegro who hadn't really offered much halved the arrears soon after though as Dejan Damjanovic poked home from what looked like an offside position to bring Wembley to an eery silence.

Hodgson may have have stunned people by playing Townsend but it was to be further vindicated as he again showed pace and quick feet before driving a swerving shot past the visitors keeper to ensure England remain on course to qualify for next years World Cup. There was even time for a fourth as Danny Sturridge continued his fine form of late to slot home a penalty from 12 yards to give England a massive confidence boost ahead of Tuesday nights must win fixture against Poland.

Hodgson has shown this week that he is the right man to lead England. He has shown calmness, experience and passion, something we all demand from our international side. Most of all though perhaps, Hodgson has shown to be bold, he will make decisions that shock providing they will benefit the team. Last nights decision was certainly that, bold, brave but it turned into breath taking.

England now prepare for their final date with destiny. A win over Poland and qualification to Brazil 2014 is secure, a draw or defeat and they then need a miracle of Ukraine dropping points against San Marino.

Let us know your thoughts, will England qualify for Brazil 2014? Write in our comments box below or tweet @RyanDay100

Harry rant aimed to harm Hodgson?

Harry Redknapp launched a fierce attack today on the Football Association after being rejected as the next England Manager last year when Fabio Capello was sacked.

The now QPR boss labelled the FA as 'clueless' and he wouldn't trust them to make important decisions such as who should manage the England side. Time has passed since Redknapp was overlooked, with the job instead being handed to Roy Hodgson who faces a vital week as England look to secure their place at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Redknapp today though took time to swipe at the FA bosses after being overlooked, and while sour grapes spring to mind, you do have to wonder about the timing from Redknapp with two crucial qualifiers looming large on the horizon for Hodgson and his side.

Redknapp writing in his new autobiography: " Everyone said I was the people's choice, the only choice. All the senior players seemed to be up for me to get the job. I got quite a few text messages at the time from players saying they would love me to manage England: Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry. But the FA went for Roy Hodgson to be the England manager – a man who is more their cup of tea."

Redknapp says he holds no grudge against Hodgson for getting the job but does admit he had spoken to now Liverpool boss, then in charge of Swansea about becoming his assistant at the 2012 European Championships.

Redknapp seemed the nailed on choice for the job last year, however, he ended up jobless after a run of two wins from ten games for Tottenham while he was being linked to the job meant they missed out on the top four of the Premier League and Champions League football. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy took the decision to sack Redknapp, leaving with a summer of uncertainty.

The experienced boss bounced straight back into action though in November when he answered QPR's SOS call and despite failing to keep the R's in the Premier League, Redknapp has rebuilt his squad and the London club look well on course to return to the Premier League.

It will remain unclear until next Tuesday or possibly even after the 2014 World Cup finished to know for certain if the FA was right to give the job to Roy Hodgson, but it seems that the top bosses at the FA headquarters will not appreciate Redknapp's comments and certainly the timing of them.

Was the FA right to give the England job to Roy Hodgson, and has Redknapp chosen now to attack the FA to make an already difficult week for Hodgson that little bit harder?

As always comment below or tweet us at @RyanDay100

Suarez bites back

Luis Suarez has hit the headlines again this week, however, this time it was for all the right reasons after two goals in a week helped Liverpool climb to the top of the Premier League, albeit for probably only 24 hours with Arsenal and Tottenham yet to play this weekend.

It was the Uruguayans first Premier League appearance at Anfield since April after serving a ten match ban for biting the arm of Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic, nevertheless, Suarez continued his impressive form this season by netting in the 16th minute as Liverpool swept past a sinking Crystal Palace ship.

In a one sided first half it was the 'SAS' partnership of Suarez and Sturridge who tore the Eagles apart, before captain Steven Gerrard crashed home his 99th Premier League goal from the penalty spot to give Brendan Rodgers's side a unassailable 3-0 lead at the break.

Coincidentally in Suarez's last fixture at Anfield it was against a London side (Chelsea) and both him and Sturridge were on the score sheet, of course this game didn't see Suarez chomp on the arm of a player, despite him looking hungry for goals.

Liverpool will also be boosted by the return of their King Kenny, who on Friday announced he was returning to the club as a Non-exec director. The sight of Kenny Dalglish back at Anfield brings about immense happiness to the fans of the red side of Merseyside, even more so while they sit at the top of the Premier League.

Suarez has shown two impressive performances in the Premier League against Sunderland and Crystal Palace and despite bigger tests to come, there is a real belief amongst supporters that he is back to his best and he has put the past behind him.

One Liverpool fan told Everything Sport that Suarez was 'firing on all cylinders again'.

"Luis is the best striker in the Premier League. I know it's only been two games but he is firing on all cylinders again and he is putting in a shift for the team."

Despite a growing belief that the damaged love affair between Suarez and Liverpool is coming to an end, newspaper rumours wont go away that the striker is waiting on a move to Real Madrid in January.

That speculation was fired even more on Saturday morning as Suarez's Uruguay teammate Edinson Cavani said Suarez was 'still hoping for a move to Madrid.' Whether or not Liverpool would sell or in fact if Suarez will go remains unclear, however, the striker is back to his best and alongside Sturridge, Liverpool could remain in the title hunt for some time yet.

Is Suarez back to his best? Are Sturridge and Suarez the best Premier League partnership? And will Suarez leave Liverpool in January and join Real Madrid? Let us know your thoughts by commenting below or tweeting @RyanDay100

The Y-word is as racist as the N-word but Cameron labels it as the A-word- Acceptable

WARNING: This blog may contain some words that offends readers.

This week the Prime Minister took time out to wade in on the continued debate over the use of the word Yid, from Tottenham Hotspur fans and opposition fans that may still use the racist term.

The word Yid originates from a time when racism was accepted, a time when black people were used as slaves and the N word was used at its most frequent. Time has changed many things but mostly, and rightly so it has changed the attitude towards racism. No longer is it acceptable to use any racist language towards anyone.....or is it?

Tottenham adopted the term Yid Army as a defence mechanism after opposition fans regularly mocked the club for it's Jewish following. Around 5% of all Tottenham fans today have Jewish roots, but yet the clubs fans see themselves as the Yid Army.

In the past week the debate has become quite heated after the Football Association commented any fans using the racist term, whether a Tottenham fan or not should be prosecuted, this was after the continued battle from Jewish, Chelsea fan David Baddiel who continues to fight for the Y-word to be banned.

The debate however has taken an unusual twist this week after David Cameron, yes the Prime Minister of England, declared that the use of the word from Tottenham fans was acceptable, as they were not 'motivated by hate'.

So this opens a scenario where the FA are fighting for the banning of the word, while the Prime Minister says it's ok. So who is going to win this battle that no one really wants to have?

The answer? Nobody. The lobbying for the banning of the word is frankly pointless as Tottenham fans class themselves as the Yid Army and that will never change, but what about the Jewish section of the Tottenham fans that find the term offensive? Where do they stand in this debate? Is the Tottenham fans chanting the word offensive to them, and is it 'motivated by hate'

The fact Cameron even got involved is a baffling one, the fact he said what he said, was even more strange. As a politician, we would have expected him to sit on the fence and let others deal with it. He spoke openly about the term and even went as far as almost giving Tottenham fans the green light to continue using it. So debate over? Again, maybe not.

With black friends myself, I ask the question if I was to walk up to one and use the N word, would it be welcomed by them, or would they view it as 'motivated by hate'? Of course this scenario wouldn't happen amongst my group of friends but up and down the country we regularly hear stories of racism in society.

We don't have to stray too far from the football field to find cases of racism either, both John Terry and Luis Suarez were recently handed bans after being found guilty, yet no legal prosecution. Both cases were condemned by football fans up and down the country, even by some that still use the racist Y-word to either describe themselves, or another person.

Rapper Jay Z recently released a new song in the charts with the N word featured several times, some listeners, white and black will take offence to that, however it appears to be fine as it is not 'motivated by hate', yet some people that are offended by the word, myself included are just left to deal with it as it apparently is acceptable in the context of his song.

My final point is that a racist term is a racist term and that nobody can say otherwise. What can be argued is the motivation behind the use of the word. Tottenham fans don't use the word to abuse others, in fact they use it to endear themselves. Does it make it right? Unfortunately not in my view.

What may offend you, may not offend others, that is the world we live in today, however, we would all agree there is no room for racism in society, let alone football. As mentioned previously, if a group of people branded themselves with the N word, it certainly wouldn't be accepted, and even more certainly, David Cameron would not be defending them in his weekly parliament speech.

Do you think the word Yid is still a racist term? Are the FA right to try and force the banning of the word, or is Cameron right, should Tottenham fans be allowed to continue to use the word?

Let us know your thoughts.

Time to put the boot into Homophobia in Football

Normally the myth says a pot of gold can be found at the end of a rainbow, but this weekend gay rights charity Stonewall will be hoping some gold can be found at the feet of thousands of professional footballers across England and Scotland.

The charity have sent all 92 professional League Clubs in England some rainbow coloured laces as they try to gain the support of footballers. The campaign is aimed at changing the attitude towards homophobia in sport, rather than encouraging any footballers to come out as gay.

Robbie Rogers, formerly of Leeds and Stevenage announced he was gay last year after retiring from the sport, claiming it was impossible while he was playing because of the 'Pack mentality' that meant he feared he wouldn't be accepted in the game.

Rodgers has since gone back on his retirement and is currently plying his trade in the MLS with LA Galaxy.

The FA have had no involvement with the campaign and say it is 'up to each individual club and player' as to whether they join in with wearing the laces in matches this weekend across England and Scotland, but have promised to discuss the campaign with Stonewalls next year.

Everton, have been the first club to come forward and publicly confirm their support of the campaign, it remains uncertain as to how many others will do the same though. The campaign has had support from QPR midfielder Joey Barton who today tweeted: 'Sexuality in sport should not be an issue in 21st Century.'

The belief within the game is that attitudes are changing in football towards homosexuality. Work continues to try and rid the game of the image that saw Justin Fashanu commit suicide after publicly coming out.

This weekend, clubs and players have the chance to help enhance that image further by wearing the rainbow coloured laces for just 90 minutes. If every player was to come together and support the idea, it would show the watching crowd and media that the game has changed and that it is ready to embrace its first openly gay footballer in the English leagues.

You can show your support by wearing the rainbow coloured laces as well this weekend whether you are a semi-pro player, Sunday League or just having a kick around at the park.

This weekend potentially could go down as one of the historical moments......the moment football welcomed homosexuality into its sport.

 

Rainbow laces can be purchased here: http://www.biglaces.com/mall/departmentpage.cfm/BigLaces/_343294/1/Rainbow%2520Laces



Will you be wearing your rainbow coloured laces this weekend?

The cost of football, is it really worth it?

With unemployment rising, inflation rising and salaries being frozen, it still surprises many that football appears to be unaffected by the economic crisis that still looms large over England.

This week figures released showed that clubs across the country were making some efforts to reduce the cost of a matchday, however ticket prices were still the highest across Europe.

Season ticket prices in England did rise by nearly 4%, however matchday ticket prices did show a drop in price, but was it enough?

Many fans will be grateful for the small drop in price, however Supporters Federation Chairman Malcolm Clarke said enough wasn't done:

"The Premier League has had an eye-watering increase in its media income. For example, they could knock £50 off the price of every single ticket of every single game for every single spectator in the Premier League this season and still have the same amount of money as they previously had.

"Our message to the Premier League is 'you have huge money, you have done a bit but you can do much more'." he added.

Of course this year saw the start of a new mega-billion TV deal between media partners and the Premier League. The deal, believed to be worth around £3 Billion is the largest in Premier League history, however hasn't forced the change in ticket prices some fans thought it might.

In Southampton, some fans thought the price of football was too high and the game was moving away from supporters and closer to businesses and media.

Jack, 21 said: "The Premier League should force a cap on what teams can charge, the fans are suffering while clubs continue to spend crazy money on transfers. It is not fair."

This summer saw English clubs spend over £600 Million between them as they made the most of the new TV deal payments.

Despite many fans feeling they are charged too much for 90 minutes of football, some fans are only too happy to pay whatever to see their side. 45 year old Rob from Southampton has been following the Saints since he was 16 and told us he would pay whatever to see his beloved side.

"It is a passion, you pay whatever. I love watching Southampton and the cost is fine. You get more than 90 minutes of football today, you get entertainment, an atmosphere, the whole package."

Asked if he would be happy if Southampton raised ticket prices again next season he said:

"It would annoy some but I think to stay competitive we have to increase prices now and then. If it helped us get into Europe because we could afford that star player would people moan then?"

The debate rages on, does football in England cost the fans too much? Should clubs reduce ticket prices further or are they justified in what they charge?

Carlisle sacking could provide catalyst for overhaul

At 10:30AM today in the very north of England, Carlisle United sacked their manager Greg Abbott. Of course to many this news will be of very little importance, in fact it would have been ignored or not even seen by most eyes.

However, after Greg Dykes passionate speech last week regarding the state of the English game, the sacking of Abbott could in fact be seen as the perfect example of exactly what is wrong with English football.

It is common knowledge that the lower depths of League One are not the high life of the Premier League and certainly do not possess the riches of the worlds richest division, however, it is where a handful of English coaches are finding their feet.......or maybe not.

Abbott, not a household name across England let alone the world took charge of Carlise in 2008, he led them to Wembley twice and secured the club their highest finish in League One as they finished 8th in the 2011/12 season. The 49 year old was the third longest serving manager in England behind Arsene Wenger and Paul Tisdale of Exeter.

The sacking of Abbott though only serves to highlight the fact that English coaches are not being given the time to impress and even less are being given the opportunity to progress through the ranks.

This week former Tottenham and Liverpool director of football Damien Comolli blasted Dykes suggestion that foreign imports were to blame for the English sides failure, instead suggesting the FA should look at their own style of coaching, or lack of it:

"I thought [Dyke's] speech was very poor. The FA needs to produce better quality coaches, and more of them.

"In England a new manager comes in, then brings his mate to take charge of the under-12s. Most teams change managers about every 18 months, so that brings an incredible instability to the academy." added Comolli.

While Carlisle go in search of their first manager in nearly six years, this latest sacking in English football might just provide the kick start into some much needed soul searching at the FA as the need to overhaul the identity of football in England begins to outweigh the success of the game.

Do coaches and Managers in England need more support? Do you think the FA do enough to encourage more coaches in the English game?

Lone ranger Rickie can cope in Kiev

It is just over a year since England last played in Kiev, on that occasion it was to face a fancied Italian side in a European Championships Quarter Final, Tuesday night however sees Roy Hodgson return with his Three Lions as they look to go a long way to securing their spot at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Hodgson will be aware that a win for his Three Lions will put them in pole position to reach the 2014 World Cup, however, a draw or defeat will blow things wide open at the top of group H with their opposition and Montenegro on their tails.

The England boss will be up against it even more so as he has to travel to Kiev without several first teamer's due to injury and suspension. Phil Jones, Wayne Rooney, Daniel Sturridge, Andy Carroll and Glen Johnson are all missing, meaning that Hodgson is likely to hand Rickie Lambert the chance to shine alone up front for England in just his third cap.

The Southampton striker has scored in both of his England appearances so far, however Tuesday night will prove to be both his and Hodgson's sternest test yet. The rise of Lambert has been phenomenal and a match winning performance on Tuesday will all but secure both his and England's place at next Summers World Cup.

Ukraine warmed up for this clash with England by hammering minnows San Marino 9-0, while England were easily dispatching of Moldova 4-0. The hosts have met England twice in the last year. On the first occasion a Wayne Rooney goal was enough to see England progress at Euro 2012, meanwhile when the two sides met at Wembley earlier in this qualifying campaign, it was an 87th minute penalty from Frank Lampard which rescued England a 1-1 draw.

Lampard will be playing in his 100th game for England on Tuesday and like so many in the current England set up will know that this is his last chance to play at a World Cup. With Greg Dykes passionate speech about the state of the national game still ringing in the ears of many, Hodgson will be desperate to at least secure Englands place at the 2014 World Cup.

There is no doubting that this is Roy Hodgson's most important game as England manager so far. A win and England can start planning for next summer in Brazil, a draw and it is anybody's group, a defeat and England fans will have to start planning for a two legged play-off fixture.

Will England beat Ukraine in Kiev on Tuesday night?

Win a World Cup by 2022? On your bike Dyke

FA Chairman Greg Dyke this afternoon set England a challenge to win a World Cup by the year 2022, as part of the countries need to reform the national game, but was his challenge a step too far?

Every two years, expectant England fans (myself included) claim that 'this is our time', and yet time and time again we are left to bemoan and blame everyone but ourselves. Whether it be a dodgy referee, a freak goal or those dreaded penalties it never seems to be England's fault.

However, that all changed today a tiny bit as FA Chairman Dyke admitted that English football needed reforming to avoid "letting down the country and thousands of England football fans." The main issue seems obvious, however not so easy to approach. Last season just 32% of players in the Premier League were eligible to play for the England national side.

So how does the FA suggest we deal with this? Send your answers on a postcard as no explanation or plan was given other than a need "to work closely with the Premier League to deal with this frightening trend." A 'frightening trend' indeed, in 1995 just under 50% of players were English.

The warning from Dyke that things needed sorting was music to many ears, his next statement was not so. "I set a target that we win a World Cup by 2022." While extremely optimistic, it begs the question as to whether Dyke has completely misunderstood the challenge that faces him.

To reform the English national side, plans need to be drawn up to change the philosophy of the players. This plan needs to be implemented into players from as young of six or seven, allowing them to progress with a clear vision. The average age of a winning World Cup side is 27, so any hopes of winning a World Cup within 20 years seem unlikely.

Dyke of course should be congratulated for setting targets, something that has been missed by his predecessors, however his outlandish target seems to have overshadowed his much needed announcement.

Any plans to enhance the performance of our national side are welcome and I look forward to seeing what the FA and Premier League plan, however after the transfer window just slammed shut with a record amount spent on transfers, I can't see the Premier League accepting any proposals which will be detrimental to the worlds greatest league.

What would you say is the way forward for English football?

Winchester City FC ready to rise again

By Ryan Day

It has been a turbulent 12 months for Winchester City FC after suffering a torrid season in the Evo Stik South-West division which saw them eventually relegated to the Wessex Premier over ground issues.

The club ran up debts to be thought upwards of £10,000 and even had to postpone one fixture last season as the electric had been cut from their Denplan Stadium.

But four months on from being saved by two well known local businessman, the dark clouds that once rolled over the Club seem to be lifting. Work has been carried out on the pitch meaning that new first team manager Graham Kemp can get his side playing the way he wants them to ahead of their return to the Wessex Premier League.

As well as the pitch, some ground maintenance work has been carried out by the club and some diehard Winchester fans who refused to see the club hit the wall, despite them being only weeks away from that back in April.

The return of Dave Malone and new Chairman Paul Murray has meant a restored optimism around the club, but Mr Murray was quick to point out it hadn't been easy:

"Its been a challenging time since we got involved in April, we both live in Winchester so we decided to get involved. The supporters have been fantastic since we came in.

The club was virtually non-existent when we got involved, we wanted to get the club back on its feet. It is rare you have to build a new team from scratch but here we are a week before the season starts and we have had an unbeaten pre-season campaign", he added.

The Reds completed their pre-season campaign on Saturday with a 2-1 win over Fleet Town and new First Team Manager Kemp is looking forward to the new season, despite the turbulent last few months:

"I came to the club and there was no one here. We have called on some favours and it is coming together, but the hard work starts now.

If we lose and them players have given 100% then I will be happy. My first stipulation was that we needed to sort the ground out, we need to create an environment where people want to play their football, its coming along but we are not where we want it to be just yet".

While Kemp realises the struggles the Club has gone through in recent months, he says Winchester will not be there to make up the numbers this season:

"Without putting to much pressure on myself, I have not just come here to win nothing, I am hoping we can be challenging for promotion this year and if not then certainly next season".

Brits abroad - Not good enough?

With so many foreign imports into the Premier League these days we rarely see English players heading in the opposite direction. Everything Sport explores if that is because the English game is the place to be or the English players are not good enough for other countries?

Only three days into the new week and Manchester City have spent over £50 million pounds on two foreign players, one from Spain and one from Brazil. There is no doubt that while these figures seem high, it has become a harsh reality that these numbers are expected. Even more so of a reality is that these players will be from other countries.

With the Under 21 Championships kicking off tonight with England involved there is plenty of proof that England does produce fine quality players, but why do they never seem to leave the Great British Isles to taste some exotic endeavors in other countries?

Of course some players have flown the nest to try some World football, however very few have succeeded and most have returned to the English game after a short stint away. Most recently we have seen David Beckham, Joe Cole and Joey Barton try their hand in another country. While Beckham is expected to make an impact wherever he goes, it can be said that it was not his footballing skills that lit up his time abroad but more his global attraction i.e shirt sales.

The shortage of English players moving abroad seems to have been a consistent issue throughout the last few decades, however some of English biggest stars have made the move, with most considered being unsuccessful.

In 1993 in form Watford Striker Luther Blissett decided swapping Vicarage Road for the San Siro of AC Milan was the 'dream'. One season and just five goals later, Blissett returned to Vicarage Road, so what went wrong?

"When we played away at Ascoli in the first game, the change was just chalk and cheese. It was literally just playing keep-ball for the whole match and it was very difficult." he said in a recent interview with Sky Sports News

"You'd lay the ball off and spin to get behind people and the ball would end up back with the sweeper. They'd just be keeping the ball across the back. That's how it was." He added.

Of course Blissett was not the only British player to make the move to Italy bringing about the most famous quote from Liverpool legend Ian Rush who described his time in Italy 'Like playing in a different country'.

Fans of the Premier League will argue that there is no need for players to uproot and move sticks as these youngsters are plying their trade in already the Worlds best League. While it continues to attract billions of viewers, English club performances in the Champions League this season would suggest that actually we no longer have the best division in the world.

Returning Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho yesterday dismissed this argument. "Sometimes these things happen and there is no answer. In my first stint here it was just Chelsea, United and Arsenal going for the title, now there are five or six teams."

With a rising number of foreign imports joining the Premier League,could this be the best time for youngsters from England to try their hand at clubs around Europe? Former Arsenal Midfielder Paul Merson thinks they should.

"If we had five or six players playing across Europe's top leagues that would help England". Merson said in a Newspaper interview last year.

Another issue seems to be the language barrier, however football is now considered a worldwide language so this should no longer be an issue.

While Premier League football remains the most watched League across Europe, it perhaps looks like that it is no longer leading the way with attractive, exciting, and attacking football with the emergence of countries such as Germany now leading the way.

The fact that very few players move away from England appears to be due to the fact that they are not good enough.

What do you think? Are English players not good enough to play abroad or are they better to stay in the Premier League? 

Why the second coming of the 'Special one' may not be so special

Jose Mourinho today returned to Stamford Bridge having signed a four year deal with Chelsea FC.

Mourinho's final game in charge of Real Madrid on Saturday evening, despite six goals being scored, was a sideshow as all focus was on the man that once pronounced himself as the 'special one'.

Of course all signs seem to have pointed towards Stamford Bridge for the last few weeks as Chelsea fans licked their lips in excitement at the second coming of their former boss. Today we look at whether a return to the English capital is the right move for Mourinho. 

There is no doubt that the 50 year old is Chelsea's most successful manager in recent history and those fans still love him. But could that all change? 

They say in football you should never return, we never expected Mourinho to listen to that advice, why would he? Here is a man that has won most things in most countries. 

This time though things could potentially be very different from when the eccentric Portuguese manager took over at the Bridge in 2003. Back then Mourinho had a team that had achieved very little and he had John Terry and Frank Lampard in their prime. This time he set to inherit a side that has won the Europa League and qualified automatically for next seasons Champions League.

The aim will be simple for Mourinho this time around, win the Premier League and the Champions League. Of Course he never had to deal with the threat of Manchester City during his last tenure, while Manchester United and Arsenal will also be out to upset his return to Englands top flight.

While it is argued that now is the perfect time for Mourinho to walk back into Stamford Bridge like a knight in shining armour, you can't but help but think while he has lots to win, Mourinho has so much more to lose this time around. 

The fact he has the same love of Chelsea as their supporters will give him an extra boost in the challenge to complete his 'unfinished' business at the Bridge. The boss also enjoys a strong relationship with the British press, not something every manager can boast. 

The one relationship though that seems fractured is that of Mourinho and the Chelsea owner Roman Abromovich. In 2007 Mourinho left the Bridge blaming a breakdown in relationship with the influential Russian. While it appears that the relationship is now fixed, you have to wonder how long it will be before that all changes. 

Is a return to Chelsea right for both Mourinho and the Blues?

90 minutes of football and £120 million pound at stake...How do you enjoy the Championship play-off Final?

A sunny Bank Holiday Monday in May and the majority of us are set to enjoy a nice relaxing day, making the most of our extra day off from work. Some will no doubt be nursing a hangover from a crazy Bank Holiday night out, and then there are Crystal Palace and Watford fans who will spend the day biting their finger nails ahead of footballs richest game.

Today at Wembley, Palace and Watford will contest the Championship Play-Off Final for the right to be playing Premier League football next season. After 46 league games it all comes down to 90 tense minutes at the home of football to decide which of these two teams will be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool next season.

There is no doubt that Watford fans are still pinching themselves that today is even happening after their dramatic semi final v Leicester at Vicarage Road, where the Foxes looked to have secured their spot in the final as they earned a stoppage time penalty, only for Watford keeper Manual Almunia to save superbly before playing the ball up field allowing Troy Deeney to smash the ball home with just seconds remaining.

Although for Palace it was not quite so dramatic, Ian Holloway and his side had to battle past fierce rivals Brighton to reach today's showpiece event. After a 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park it looked like the pendulum had swung in the Seagulls favour, however two goals from Manchester United bound Wilfred Zaha at the Amex secured Palace a 2-0 aggregate win.

The build up to this game has been further enhanced by Ian Holloway's critical comments about Watfords use of the flawed loan system in the Football League. Up to this season there was a limit on five loan players in each squad from England, however no maximum number on foreign loan imports. With the Watford owners also having ownership of Udinese in Italy, it allowed the Hornets boss, Gianfranco Zola to snap up eight players on loan, including that of 21 year old Matej Vydra who has bagged an incredible 20 goals already this season.

There will not be two more eccentric managers on the sidelines either with Zola and Holloway two of the most entertaining bosses in the Championship. Zola this week said his players would be 'crazy' not to enjoy the occasion, unfortunately I don't think it is a game that can be enjoyed....until you win.

The winners of today's game will earn a potential £120 million pounds over the next year regardless of whether they drop straight back down from the Premier League thanks to large TV deal and parachute payments. In essence that means that each minute today that the players are on the field could potentially be worth £1.3 million pounds.

It is set to be an enthralling afternoon of football for everyone watching, maybe except them Watford and Palace fans making their way to Wembley, my advice to them, make sure you have some nails to bite and shoulder to cry on or to dance on at full time as it really will get that emotional. Strap yourselves in, it is going to be a roller-coaster.

Who do you think will win today's Championship Play Off Final? As always let us know.

Why Gareth shouldn't Bale on Spurs.....yet!

After failing to qualify for the Champions League this season, many Tottenham fans fear they could be about to lose their superstar winger Gareth Bale, however Everything Sport takes a look at why the Welsh wizard might be better to give it another go at White Hart Lane rather than hotfoot it across Europe to Madrid.

Spurs could count themselves unfortunate to miss out on a top four finish this season after finishing with their highest ever points tally in the Premier League, totaling 72, with only the extraordinary form of rivals Arsenal post Christmas preventing the White half of North London celebrating Champions League football next season.

Reports this week have linked Bale with an incredible £60 million pound move to another team in white....the one time Galacticos of Real Madrid. While all footballers dream of the opportunity to play for one of the biggest clubs in world football, Bale should reject any advance from Madrid and stick with his Tottenham team mates for at least another season,particularly as they seem on the verge of toppling the once one sided battle in North London.

At just 23 years old, Bale could be about to become the main man who leads Spurs to something that they have not done in a while and that is finish above their near neighbours.  There is no doubt anymore regarding Bales ability, he has scored goals in an abundance and crucial ones at that. While it seems wrong to label Tottenham a one man team, you can't help but ask the question where Tottenham would have finished without the supreme Bale in their line up.

Bale is a key man and his reputation at Tottenham is rising all the time, you have to wonder if a move to Madrid would mean the same. You only have to rewind to 2012 to find the last player who swapped London for Madrid, Luka Modric.

Like Bale, Modric was a key part of a Spurs squad who had qualified for the Champions League, interest from Madrid grew and the player demanded a move to Spain. Spurs no doubt lost a key player, but Modric has found it tough in Spain and reports of a return to England already seem to be circulating.

While it is unfair to say the same would happen to Bale, it is clear that Bale would go from a stand out player to just another name of stars in a team that doesn't necessarily produce what it should.....trophies. Of course their are arguments that a move to Madrid could make Bale the complete player, while there is some truth in this, there is no reason why it has to be this season, he has time on his side.

At just 23, the Welshman has his best years ahead of him and he can still evolve at Spurs and help them become a regular in Europe's elite competition before departing for the Spanish capital. Andres Villas Boas is building something special at Tottenham and he is planning to build it around the Welshman. Spurs are no longer knocking on the door of Champions League football, they are now prepared to blow it open by making some big name signings and that is something the current top four should be wary of, and while AVB and Bale are leading the army, that threat is even more serious.

Nobody will expect Bale to stay at Tottenham for his entire career, of course they don't, why would he? But what Spurs fans will be expecting is another top four push next season and they will be praying that it is with Bale, I would be surprised if he jumps ship just yet and I think AVB would as well.

Let us know your thoughts. Should Bale stay at Spurs or push through a move to Madrid?