FC: First of all, do you think that goal line technology should be brought into football?
FC: Absolutely. Its high time for many reasons.
First, I cant stand this argument that the human elememt is part of the game. It's not. The game is built on rules and the governing bodies should do everything possible to ensure that the game is refereed as accurately as possible. I dont want to see bad penalties awarded and goals disallowed because of bad decisions. Nothing leaves a worse taste in the mouth than winning or losing because of that. Bad refereeing decisions are also a trigger for violence.
Next, technology is already being used to recind cards, upgrade punishments and demonstrate proof of violent acts. It's a simple step to incorporate this into the game without long stoppages of play.
Lastly, looking at the recent cheating scandals in Germany and Brazil, technology could go a long way to discouraging that behavior -as long as it's done in a way that doesnt challenge the referee's competence or authority.
I find it odd that so many want to preserve the human element in the game but could care less if the game is overrun by divers and faking injuries. We could see better, more flowing football using technology to police play and ensure accuracy.
FC: Do you think Chelsea's money in the game is good or bad?
FC: Money, money is just access. Its how you use the money that determines what's good and bad. Money alone does not do the damage. When you spend way over everyone else you have built a very expensive team with great players and put everyone else in a position that they will never catch up, that is bad, so in that respect, Chelsea is bad.
But that said, Real Madrid are in fact worse than Chelsea. Chelsea have not bought mega $ players the way Real Madrid have in years past. Madrid want to cultivate this aura of fame and untouchables. In Chelsea's defense they have bought a set of solid performers, not superstars. That may change, I thought the Essien transfer was a mistake, but for now, Mourinho knows that assembling too many big names on one team does more damage than good. Just look at Beckham. Mourinho would have never bought him.
FC: Who in your eyes is the best player in the world + best young player in the world?
FC: For me, the best player in the world is Arsenal's Thierry Henry. He's the most complete striker out there and has a track record. It's too easy to label a guy that has no history 'the best' but Henry performs consistently and raises the level of the team significantly. In addition, nobody can contain him. If I had to pick a close second or third it would be Ronaldinho and Frank Lampard. Again, complete players that show up for every game.
The best young player in the world, for me, is Kaka from AC Milan. He's incredibly fluid, scores goals, and handles pressure very well. What is so interesting about him is how calm he is on the ball. Kaka is a joy to watch.
FC: Who do you think will win the Champions League?
FC:Tough one. I will take a risk here and say Lyon from France. I've been very impressed with their performances. They have a great midfield, the best free kick taker in the world (Juninho) and 2 class strikers, Carew and Fred.
Now, close seconds would be Chelsea and Juventus. The defensive pressure those 2 can create can disrupt any team.
FC: Who do you think will win the UEFA Cup?
FC:The draw for UEFA is very weak this season. Middlesbrough looks to be the best side but I am almost certain that the winner will come from the Champions League dropouts.
FC: Who do you think will win the Premiership?
FC: It seems nobody has their pieces together like Chelsea. Blues by a mile.
FC: Who do you think will win La Liga?
FC: Minus their slow start to the season, Barcelona have a better squad than Real Madrid and will win LA Liga.
FC: Who do you think will win Seire A?
FC: Juventus are too strong and complete to be challenged. AC Milan may make a strong challenge buy Juve are my choice.
FC: And finally, which of those three leagues do you think is the best and why?
FC: 1. The Premiership
2. La Liga
3. Le Championnat
4. Serie A
I chose the Premiership by a nose because of the parody between teams. La Liga might be slightly more entertaining week in and week out but the Premiership offers more surprises, just look at Wigan.
I included the French league 3rd. The French league has some really excellent football at the moment, really entertaining stuff and exciting young players.
If you would like to read the other two interviews then just click on which ever one you like: Football To You, Football List.
