EURO 2012: Final Prediction

It all comes down to this.The last two world champions combating in Kiev to become the champions of Europe in 2012, Spain playing the part of the mighty defending champions, unwilling to move over so that the discounted juggernaut - the sleeping giant, if you will - in Italy can take their seat on the throne. These two teams from Group C have had their bumps and bruises since they opened the tournament against each other, but in the end, through all the close calls, injuries, and hardships, they've made their way to the Final.

For Italy, the headlines might read that EURO '12 was Mario Balotelli's 'coming out party,' but in reality, the road has been marked by the leadership of Andrea Pirlo, Danielle de Rossi, and Cesare Prandelli. Pirlo has been the toast of the tournament, being both creator and finisher, and has certainly recapture glory of days past. De Rossi has been the glue. His holding midfield abilities have never been in question, but his leadership and ability to step into a variety of different roles in the ever-changing Italy scheme has allowed Prandelli to take chances, knowing he can always rely on de Rossi to get him out of a pinch. And finally, we have Prandelli himself. Having used formations such as 4-4-2, 3-5-2, 4-3-3, and others, his tactics have been fresh and keeping opponents on their toes, which as allowed the Azzurri to cast aside the staleness that landed them an early exit from the 2010 World Cup. This Italy team is great at the back and confident at the front, making them an unbearably difficult competition, culminating in an impressive 2-1 win over Germany in the Semi-Finals.

La Furia Roja have paved their way to Kiev with tainted success. Though they continue to dominate the scoreboard and possession, many feel their attack has lost it's edge. This has been amplified by the lack of a true striker, with Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas filling in for ineffective options in Fernando Torres and Negredo up front. David Silva and Fabregas have both been terrific this tournament, proving that despite all the criticism, which was at its worse during a nervy penalty win over Portugal in the Semi-Finals in a match that Portugal by all rights should have won, Spain still is the team to beat. And with coach Vincente del Bosque's wonderful tactics and calm demeanor and the steady hands of captain and keeper Iker Casillas holding the Spanish reins, Spain will feel they have no reason no to win their second consecutive European Championship.

Prediction:
Italy 2 - 1 Spain (aet)


I'm convinced. I picked Italy to crash and burn before the tournament began, but between the incredible technique and finishing of Cassano and Balotelli, the creative force of Pirlo, Marchisio, and Montolivo, the never give up mentality of de Rossi and Bonucci, and of course, everything that is Gigi Buffon, I just think Italy are too much for Spain, who seem to need something fresh in their attack. While in their heyday of  2009 and 2010 possession was what made the Spanish machine churn out wins and trophies, I just feel that they're missing that extra step - that edge - that would normally have them see off Italy. Silva, Iniesta, or Fabregas could certainly provide that spark, but as it stands, I just haven't seen it in this tournament. I've got Balotelli and Fabregas scoring in regular time, and Ricardo Montolivo providing the winner in the additional half hour. He deserved a goal against Germany, so why not get one here, right?

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That's it for this time. Next week, I'll wrap up EURO 2012 and give some awards, as well as give a brief rundown of my predictions of the Top 6 in major European leagues for the 2012/13 season based on what they've done so far. Until then, best of luck to all of you, and happy watching.

Kevin Kryston
Host, Football Central w/ Matt and Kevin
Thursdays 6-8 (Aug. thru April) on 99.5 and 98.1 WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio

3 of a Kind: My Take on Football News

Major international tournaments usually mark a dry spell for major news. Transfers rarely solidify, club dramas are usually put on ice, and most stories pertain to the football worlds actions and reactions to their respective tournaments. This is the trouble I've faced during EURO 2012. While it's been nice to have some games that matter during the summer, my thirst for football news goes relatively unfulfilled. That said, some stories have come out. Manchester City boss has confessed that he wants to cut wage bills to keep economic stability and fund future signings, Montpelier HSC and Arsenal have confirmed striker Olivier Giroud's transfer to North London, and Newcastle United continues to struggle with their transfer ambitions, having failed to sign Mathieu Debuchy, and being on the brink of losing Demba Ba. Three topics, three supporting statements each. Sounds like a winning formula, right? Let's get to it...

Why Olivier Giroud's Arrival Doesn't Mean Robin van Persie's Departure

1. Lukas Podolski can (and likely will) play on the wing

When the Polak-turned-German made his long anticipated switch from his boyhood club of Koln to Arsenal, many thought him as cover or an heir-appearant for Robin van Persie. While Podolski's club and country scoring history would suggest this, the more and more both Wenger and Podolski show their hand about his role in the grand scheme of Wenger's vision of 2012/13 Arsenal, the more this looks to be false. Based on his summer signings and departures, as well as those rumored to happen, it seems that Wenger has an overall distaste for the quality of his depth at the moment, which explains why Andrey Arshavin, Denilson, Nicklas Bendtner, Marouane Chamakh, Carlos Vela, will likely be out, and Podolski, Giroud, and Rennes midfielder Yann M'Vila look to be coming in. That said, with the signing of Giroud, we need to completely reconsider the likelihood Prince Podli would play wing. Theo Walcott still has not resigned, and his club performances have been questioned, Tomas Rosicky looks a bit slow to play wing in his aging years, and Gervinho, while impressive at times, looks to be very susceptible to fatigue, as seen through his decline after returning from the African Cup of Nations. With only Oxlade-Chamberlain waiting in the wings, the wings are thin at Arsenal, if we discount Arshavin and Benayoon, making it likely the versatile Podolski would line up where he does for the German national team. How this would affect Walcott and Gervinho's futures remains to be seen, but Podolski, in my opinion would be much more viable than either of them, and Chamberlain is becoming too good to bench. Giroud's signing might make it more likely that Theo Walcott leave the Gunners this summer rather than Robin van Persie.

2. Arsenal need more than one viable option at striker

This is something Arsene Wenger has been chasing since the last year of Henry, when he was paired with a young van Persie as his back-up: a pair of strikers that both can be relied on to score if one loses form or goes down due to injury. He almost was able to get this through RvP/Eduardo before a knee injury destroyed the Brazilian-turned-Croatians career. Arsenal were too dependant on van Persie last season, having scored 31 goals in all competitions, with second leading scorer on the team being Theo Walcott with eight goals. If he were to fallen to injury, who knows how low Arsenal would have slipped. Players have come and gone trying to fill this elusive #2 role at Arsenal (see Eduardo, Nicklas Bendtner, Marouane Chamakh, Park Chu Young, Carlos Vela, etc), but Giroud actually looks to be the most likely to fill this long-vacant role. Most great clubs have at least two viable strike options, something Arsenal desperately needs to get back to being one of the best clubs in the world.

3. Giroud is a future first choice, van Persie is the current #1

One thing often forgot about Giroud and van Persie is that they aren't very close in age. Giroud is 25 and will be entering the prime of his career soon, while van Persie is 29, and likely has about 3-4 years left as a top-class striker at the very most before the aging process and 20+ years of football, as well as countless leg injuries catch up to the lovingly called The Flying Dutchman. Arsenal needs to focus on turning the best years of Robin van Persie's playing career into success, even if it means keeping Giroud and the 13 million Euros it took to sign him on the bench. Some have suggested that van Persie should tutor Giroud, which certainly would make sense. Known as a technically-astute aerial player, Giroud would benefit from time in training with the technically perfect van Persie to take his game to the next level. For van Persie to stay, he will need to be assured Arsenal will challenge for the EPL title next year. Wenger is making all the steps toward doing so, which even counts the acquisition of his new in-club competition in Olivier Giroud.

Why Mancini Needs to Reconsider His Transfer Policy

1. Current policy takes too long and wastes too much money to be a viable long-term option

It's no secret: Roberto Mancini's transfer policy has been shaped by the millions of dollars invested in his club  by new Qatari ownership since Sheikh Mansour took over the club in 2009 and cleared the clubs massive debt. Since 2008, Mancini has spent more money on players than Sir Alex Ferguson has in 25 years across town at Manchester United. He's spent more than 20 million on a single player nine times (Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko, Mario Balotelli, James Milner, Emmanuel Adebayor, David Silva, Joleon Lescott, Yaya Toure, and Robinho) with mixed success. The mass of players brought in and their success rate allow resembles the 'throwing spaghetti at a wall' method of trying lots of different players and seeing what sticks. Failures such as Robinho and Adebayor would lead to most managers firings or at least management insisting on further oversight in transfers, but because finances aren't an issue at City, Mancini has gotten away with this. This simply can't work financially over the long run without stretching the club to its financial limit. This also give players mental instability as they'll never know when they'll fall out of favor, and the revolving door of players can damage team chemistry, something that until 2011/12, City really struggled with. Mancini needs to reconsider the way he uses his budget. Just because money is there doesn't mean you should always use all of it.

2. Selling players is must, at least for summer 2012, to fix problems created by past transfers

Manchester City's wage bill is out of control and laden with players who are essentially dead weight. City's four year spending spree has left players with a selection problem that goes four and even five depth chart spots deep, leaving the bench players angry, bitter, and unable to succeed at City despite having the talent because of the situation they've been placed in. Even if they leave for free, all the players that can't break into the first team need to leave both for City's benefit and the players themselves. It pains me to see players like Alexsander Kolarov, Wayne Bridge, Kolo Toure, Nigel de Jong, Roque Santa Cruz, Emmanuel Adebayor, and many others waste their careers on the City bench and on loan at other clubs. Mancini needs to ship these players out and give them a chance to succeed elsewhere, and make back some of the money he lost in failed transfer ventures.

3. Mancini needs to be wiser with his transfer selection

Mancini really needs to scout his deals better. Success in the Premier Leauge cannot be determined by success in another league because the EPL is more physical, disciplined, and has a wider variety in types of players than any other league in the world. That said, players from other leagues do have tell-tale signs of EPL success, signs that seasoned scouts and seasoned managers like Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger can pick up these traits when looking for players. Mancini has had successes and failures, and at this point it looks like he's beginning to see what works and what doesn't. He's bought less than ten players over the last two years, and the ones he's bought have fit in quite well in comparison to past years. If he can buy the same quality players for just a bit less now, he may well be on his way from turning Man City from a team that buys success into a team that sustains success, something I'm not all too convinced he can do, especially with the revival of Spurs, the new-found success of Newcastle, Fulham, and Everton, and great off-seasons from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United leaving the champions with plenty of clubs biting at their heels.

Why Newcastle Will Qualify for European Football Again

1. Success is in the clubs formula

One thing I've noticed about Newcastle is that every major progress they've made in the last three years has been widely due to management and manager Alan Pardew's decisions. Mind you, this was a club mired in debt and stuck in Championship football in 2010, and now we consider them a top-half team in maybe the best league in the world. Their meteoric rise from the dumpster to peeking into the upper echelon has been marked by great economic decisions (even unpopular ones such as selling the naming rights to St. Jame's Park), unbelievable moves in the transfer market, and consistent performance which has allowed them to succeed against big teams and win against those they're supposed to beat. Pardew and Newcastle's management has woven success into this teams DNA, something that players coming, leaving, losing form, and going on hot streaks cannot replicate. I've long considered Alan Pardew and Everton boss David Moyes, who's success rate has been marred by club debt and slow starts over his decade in charge of the Toffees, to be the best managers outside of the 'big 6' clubs in England, and Pardew continues to prove it almost every year.

2. Pardew's favorite transfers are always available under Newcastles budget

Alan Pardew is a master of finding underappeciated talent. Yohan Cabaye, Chiek Tiote, Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse, Davide Santon, and Hatem Ben Arfa were all players wildly undervalued by their clubs, but Pardew understood their talent, and through Newcastle United, has set up a spot where "big name, small market" and "big club want-aways" to shine. The beauty of these types of signings is not only that not only are they humongous bargain deals in most cases (the previous mentioned players ended up making Newcastle a profit after selling players at the same position for more than these current stars), but they're also a dime a dozen. As long Pardew continues to isolate those he can properly motivate and utilize from the dozens who have personal and professional problems which limited their success, the footballing world will always have countless players looking to either take the next step or leave a big club to get more first team football. Let's put it simply: would you rather have Andy Carroll and Joey Barton, or Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse, Yohan Cabaye, and roughly 20 million pounds in your pocket? The players out got the club about 40 million pounds, while the players in were roughly 20 million at the very most, even factoring contract fees. Truly a genius scheme on the part of Pardew and his scouting team.

3. As long as there is no mass clear out, most players are replaceable


As seen through my previous point, not only are Pardew's transfers available and affordable, but because Pardew's transfer policy has allowed his scheme to be flexible to the type of players who enter each year. Newcaslter primarily plays 4-4-2, but the player roles in each position the last few years. Two years ago, the full backs stayed back with Steven Taylor player out of position at right back, but Davide Santon and Jay Simpson in 2012 get forward with ease. Ball-winner Chiek Tiote replaced Alan Smith and Danny Guthrie, who were run-of-the-mill central midfielders. Andy Carroll used to lead the line with his head, now Ba and Cisse lead it with their feet. Player roles are interchangeable, which allows for a versatile group of players to enter the Toon lineup. Because of this and the availability of Pardew's favorite transfers, as long as there isn't a mass clear out, there's no way for one player to devastate the clubs chances. So whether Debuchy comes to Newcastle-upon-Tyne or if Ba leaves for 'greener' pastures, Newcastle's success now resembles that of a top club, and that's something that quite hard to create, but even harder to destroy.

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Kevin Kryston
Host, Football Central with Matt and Kevin
Thursdays 6-8 (Aug. thru April) on 99.5 and 98.1 WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio

EURO 2012: Semi Final Predictions

Another round gone, and now only four teams remain in the quest to become the European Champion. I was 3-1 during the Quarterfinal Round, and the one I got wrong was England/Italy, which I successfully predicted would go to penalties. Not too shabby. That said, there's still three picks remaining for me to mess up, so let's get to it...

Semi-Finals

Germany 3 - 1 Italy


Italy is coming off a great deserved against England, but one that may seal their demise in the Semi's. Despite the Azzuri dominating the match, England pushed Italy all the way to penalties. This, coupled in with a lack of in-form depth and match congestion (this game takes place on Wednesday), may cause the Italians to look either out-of-sync or sluggish. The well-rested and powerful Germans should be able to take advantage of this, and their attacking style should lead to their 16th straight victory on the international competitive stage. The Italians unique formations should keep things interesting, but in the end I've got Mario Gomez, Marco Reus, and Mesut Ozil scoring goals for Germany, with Mario Balotelli netting for Italy. This one should be closer, but Italy just got caught in an unlucky situation.

Spain 4 - 2 Portugal


Goals, goals, and more goals. I'm still relatively unconvinced by the often shabby Portugese defense, but, as always, their attacking prowess should keep them in the match against mighty Spain. Spains lack of a striker really hasn't stood in their way this tournament, as now the essentially have the ability to tic-tac-toe their way from end to end without a pesky striker wanting the ball to bury in the net all the time. Their passing is so accurate and creative that even with out a striker, the chances they create can be buried by less prolific finishers. Cesare Prandelli's use of elaborate formations and Vincente del Bosques omission of a striker have been the most brilliant tactical moves of the tournament thus far, so I'll take Spain to dominate. Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Hugo Oliveria keep things interesting, but in the end it's all Roja, with goals coming from David Silva, Cesc Fabregas, Andres Iniesta, and Juan Mata.


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Short post today, but I'll be back with a more complete issue before the EURO Final on Sunday. Hopefully some transfter news and rumors will pop up so I can cover those. Until then, best of luck to you.


Kevin Kryston
Host, Football Central w/ Matt and Kevin
Thursdays from 6-8 (Aug. thru April) on 99.5 and 98.1 WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio 

EURO 2012: Knockout Stage Predictions

With the Group Stage gone, only eight teams remain in EURO 2012. By Sunday night, there will only be four. I didn't have the best of times predicting the Group Stage games or winners, but the Knockout Stage is upon us, so I've got another shot to make myself look smart, or, more realistically, make myself look like a well informed idiot.

Knockout Stage 1: Quarter Finals

Portugal 2 - 0 Czech Republic

Now we get into the problems of Group A. While the group was balanced and exciting in the group stage, they were by far the weakest group, and I just can't see either of the advancing teams advancing beyond the Quarter Final. Portugal held strong to see off a shabby Holland last game, with Cristiano Ronaldo ending his goal duck with a brace. Portugal should be able to hold enough possession to cover up their deficiencies, so I see a 2-0 win with goals from Helder Postiga and Cristiano Ronaldo sending them through.

Germany 1 - 0 Greece

Greece is a team that could well provide an upset, but they're too defensive to stop might Germany, who won all three in Group B. Greece puts up a valiant defensive effort, but parks the bus in their own half all match. Germany should be able to provide a breakthrough, and I recon Thomas Muller can provide the goal to send the Greeks home.

Spain 2 - 1 France (aet)

Spain has had some issues in EURO 2012, with controversy over who should lead the line and defensive struggles marring the defending champions campaign. France, on the other had, has been solid, if somewhat unconvincing. While they have very few major weaknesses, it seems that no player wants to be the man who drives them forward. Benzema has been cold, Menez and Ribery have created plenty of chance and failed to finish, and M'Vila has looked great, but his fitness is still and issue. Both these teams should provide a good game, and I figure them to be on level pegging at this point. All square in a well played 90 minutes, with goals from Samir Nasri and David Silva, before Cesc Fabregas provides the break through in the extra 30 minutes.

Italy 1 - 1 England (5-3 on penalties)

The question may not be who will win, rather, who will leave their own end first. Both England and France have been relatively negative this tournament, with Roy Hodgson's side looking generally unwilling to leave their own end, and Italy unable to shake their historically defensive personality. I was originally going to pick England to win 2-1, but then I realized how ridiculous picking England to score twice was. I've loved their organization and mentality, but goal scoring is simply not going to happen for the Three Lions in this tournament. Wayne Rooney and Antonio di Natale score in regular time, but it's the English who hold their nerve in the shootout. 

Future Round Predictions

Here's my rundown of the future rounds for future reference, just in case I get them right:

Semi Finals:

Germany def. England, Spain def. Portugal

Final

Germany def. Spain

Third Place Game

England def. Portugal

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Kevin Kryston

Host, Football Central w/ Matt and Kevin

Thurs. 6-8 (Aug. thru April) on 99.5 and 98.1 WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio

EURO 2012: Match Day 3 Predictions

Judgement day is here. Simultaneous starts in each group, with only 8 teams securing their place in the Quarter Finals of EURO 2012. Ireland and Sweden have already been eliminated, while Germany are already through, but 7 spots remain, and there are plenty of teams ready to take the reins. Let's get to it...

Group A

Poland 2 - 1 Czech Rep.

Russia 1 - 0 Greece

Russia and Poland advance

All of these teams looked good in the last round with Russia and Poland drawing and the Czechs rebounding against the Greeks, with arguably none of them likely to lose, setting up an exciting final final day in Poland. I figure the hosts to get through dramatically through an ever-inspiring Kuba winner after Robert Lewandowski and Tomas Rosicky score early to bury the Czechs, while Russia finds a way to break through a negative Greece, with an early goal from Sergei Shirokov. 

Group B

Holland 1 - 1 Portugal

Denmark 1 - 1 Germany

Germany and Portugal advance

The Dutch have been the most disappointing team of EURO 2012. I had them winning the competition, but the ego of Arjen Robben, awful defending, and terrible selection have kept the Oranje from hitting their stride. A draw when they need a big win against Portugal is in the cards, with Nani and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar scoring for each side. The Germans are through, but know how important it is to stay mentally strong. They'll field a strong side against Denmark, but the Danes have been mighty feisty, and I imagine they scrape a draw, which doesn't save them from elimination. Miroslav Klose starts and scores for Germany, Simon Kjaer gets one off a set piece for the Danes.

Group C

Italy 2 - 1 Rep. of Ireland

Spain 1 - 2 Croatia

Croatia and Italy advance

My upset special. I've liked what I've seen from Italy thus far, and they will find a way to beat Ireland in comeback fashion, having expected the Irish to lay over dead. James McClean gets a surprise start and scores early for Ireland, but Italy dominate the rest of the game, with Mario Balotelli and Alberto Aquilani scoring. I can't send Croatia home though. They've played like a team that deserves to get out of the group, and I like the way they performed against Italy and Ireland more than I liked Spain's performances against the same performances. The holders go home in shock fashion, losing 2-1 behind Ivan Perisic and Mario Mandzuckic, before getting consolation from Xavi. Vincente del Bosque is fired before he leaves the pitch despite having won a EURO and a World Cup as head coach of Spain.

Group D

England 2 - 0 Ukraine

France 3 - 1 Sweden

France and England advance

England survived a scare from the Swedes before being saved by Theo Walcott off the bench and winning 3-2 on a Welbeck winner. This change in attitude and the return of Wayne Rooney should send them past Ukraine. I figure Rooney gets a double in emphatic fashion, proclaiming that England won't be struggling to score with him up front. In the other game, France are simply too much for Sweden. Karim Benzema, Franck Ribery, and Olivier Giroud get on the scorecard in a romping win. Zlatan Ibrahimavic (who else) gets one for the Swedes.

Quarter Final Match-Ups 

--- All match-ups based on Match Day 3 Predictions---

Russia v. Portugal

Germany v. Poland (insert inappropriate WWII joke here)

Italy v. England

France v. Croatia

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Kevin Kryston

Host, Football Central with Matt and Kevin

Thursdays 6-8 (Aug. thru April) on 99.5 and 98.1 WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio

'Arry Out and Changing American Football in 5 Easy Steps

Harry Redknapp Out After Four Years as Tottenham Hotspur Manager

Reports are coming in from most major football news sources - for future reference, this usually means at least Goal.com, The Sun (it's a tabloid, but I like their sports coverage), and The Telegraph) - that Harry Redknapp will leave Spurs in the next few weeks, a year before his contract expires. His surprise departure was apparently caused by a fall-out in the relationship with chairman Daniel Levy, with the two unable to agree over transfer policy, financial issues, and personal differences. 

Redknapp won almost 50% of his games as manager at Spurs, turning Tottenham into a financial power and leading them to the Champions League in 2010 and consistent top-6 finishes. He was known as a very successful transfer artist, usually using is smaller budget to bring in one top-class player a year. Past successful signings include Rafael van der Vaart, Garreth Bale, and the loan signing of Emmanuel Adebayor.

Redknapp was heavily considered for the England job before the FA hired Roy Hodgson, and said that if he would have been offered the chance to manage the Three Lions, he would have accepted. As for the future of the Spurs now vacant manager position, Wigan manager Roberto Martinez looks to be the top candidate.

I was already under the assumption that Spurs were in trouble this year, and this compounds the issues. Having prepared for CL football, but having missed because of Chelsea's CL Final win, Spurs now cannot support their full roster. Niko Kranjcar has already left for Dynamo Kiev, Adebayor looks unlikely to sign on a full time basis, and Luka Modric, Garreth Bale, Rafeal van der Vaart have already been links to moves away from White Hart Lane, with replacements not being rumored. So, to recap, Spurs are now without a striker, have many possibly on the way out, lost their successful manager, have financial troubles, and the proposed replacement is no 'transfer wizard' or 'financial genius' himself, Martinez having never dealt with the issues of a major club. Not a fun time to be a Spur.

5 Steps towards Changing the Landscape of American Football

Having picked up a better appreciating for American football over the last year, and after discussions with Matt, I've only become frustrated with the system in place. The USA's current system is currently 3rd-tier in the world system (major European leagues being 1st-tier and minor European leagues and Argentina and Brazil being 2nd-tier), with American players not widely respected and the MLS seen only as a domestic hot-spot for decent players and a lucrative way for former superstars to dwindle out their career. However, with the MLS expanding, the Americans actually winning international games against decent nations, and fan support still quite strong and getting stronger, there are ways for the US to break into that 'second-tier.' Here's 5 ways they can move towards that goal.

1. Change focus of youth training to be more technical

For the record, I don't think the problem is with the fans. American fans have topped out, and are quite devoted, passionate, and knowledgeable. The problem lies with the fact that following soccer is extremely difficult in its present state, and this is mainly due to the infrastructure of the American system. This starts with training emphasis. The best players in the world usually have at least serviceable technical skills, however, in the current USA squad, only Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, and Michael Bradley could be described as having 'good' technique. Americans, despite being mentally strong and having good tactical knowledge, are widely considered some of the worst technical players in the world. Changing this starts at the youth level. Technical skills really cannot be learned after age 16 (see Brazil), but mentality and tactics can, so youth programs need to alter the focus of training America's youth to be more technically-oriented. Leave the tactics to the managers, at least at first.

2. Expand MLS and install promotion and relegation system with USL Pro and NASL

Promotion and relegation is down-right exciting. It gives the bottom of the table and lower leagues the same excitement as the top of the first league. It also gives any team a chance to fall from grace, or change their circumstances for the better, such as Villareal in Spain, who both turned from a debt-ridden lower league team to a European football power, then fell apart under its own weight this season. The MLS need to get to about 18 to 20 teams and restructure its lower league so that promotion and relegation are possible, but if they can, it would make all leagues much more exciting, and polarize fan bases and regions towards their clubs, just as it does in Europe.

3. Eliminate the Playoff System to determine MLS Champion

Playoffs don't really determine the best, or even the most successful team of a soccer season. Tournament play, exciting as it is, is much more conducive to upsets, as seen through Cardiff City's presence in the Carling Cup Final, and three USL Pro teams in the Quarter Finals of the US Open Cup. By sticking to the league table topper being the winner of the league, this would make it so that the winner is actually the best team for the season, rather than just the team that won the last three games, and making the US Open Cup all the more exciting.

4. Turn MLS into a quasi-"top league developmental league"

While I won't suggest that American soccer should adopt a broken system which has left 90% of European clubs in massive debt, the salary cap needs to go. It prohibits teams from expanding in any way, and essentially keeps the quality of the league down. Arsenal, Spurs, and Dortmund among many others have proven that with a proper business model, teams can have capless spending and still grow financially. With the elimination of the cap, the possibilities of the league expand, and when they do, I feel MLS clubs should target budding stars in big leagues to draw to their rosters. This would provide more talent to come, as most big signings in the MLS are currently extremely expensive older players nearing the end of their careers. While players like David Beckham, Thierry Henry, Rafa Marquez, Torston Frings and Robbie Keane may boost jersey sales, they prevent rosters from many signings due to their huge wage fees. By bringing in younger talent, the league could bring in a mass of quality while still keeping wage bills low, and while some of these players might leave by 24 to play for top teams, they would improve the reputation of American leagues to develop talent, and those who couldn't make it to top would likely stay, thus building the quality of the MLS. The MLS will never become a parallel league to the EPL or La Liga, but this would make them comprable to the Dutch Eridivisie or the Turkish Pro League, which are not bad targets to set sights on.

5. Attract better announcers and analysts for televised MLS and US national team games

As trivial as this may seem, it actually makes a big difference. American broadcasters simply don't understand how to broadcast soccer. They try to make it much more exciting than it is, broadcasting it like a hockey game, rather than more like a baseball game, which is much more appropriate. This alters the tone of the game, and really makes the overall feel less tense because of the over emphasis of the excitement of relatively uninfluential moments. The reason English broadcasters are so successful is because they create a juxtaposition between the 'lull you to sleep' middle of the game, and the ever-exciting attacking moments and frantic nature of the end of a match, as well as using a more appropriate and more intelligent vocabulary. Good broadcasters make any game more watchable, and with a change, American soccer could draw a more casual audience to add to its ever-expanding base of hardcore fans.

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That's all for me for now. I'll be predicting EURO Match Day 3 in a few days, and explaining why I was so wrong about the Dutch at EURO 12.

Until then, best wishes,

Kevin Kryston
Host, Football Central w/ Matt and Kevin
Thurs. 6-8 (Aug. thru April) on 99.5 and 98.1 WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio

EURO 2012: Match Day 2 Predictions

With the first round of scores in, it's time to have another go at predicting EURO matches. Might I add that I did a pretty darn good job of predicting goal scorers on Match Day 1, and thus, here we go: another chance to prove my powers of clairvoyance.

Group A

Greece 1 - 1 Czech Rep.

Both these sides will be disappointed with their Match Day 1 displays, with Greece missing a penalty to draw Poland, and Czech Republic looking awful against Russia. I'm not convinced either has enough in attach to grab a win, so a draw it is. Goals from Sokratis Ninis and Tomas Rosicky and honors even.

Russia 2 - 1 Poland

Poland were a tale of two teams against Greece, having dominated the first half and being absolutely atrocious in the second. While I imagine their Jekyll and Hyde persona will likely settle in their second game, the Russians will likely be too much. I recon Andrey Arshavin and Roman Pavlyuchencko to score for Russia, with Robert Lewandowski scoring yet again for the Poles in a tight match.

Group B

Denmark 1 - 1 Portugal

The surprise of the first round of games was Denmark, who outplayed and eventually defeated Holland in an incredible defensive effort on Saturday, showing that a team with chemistry always has a shot at victory. On the other side are Portugal, who looked good when they got going but took to long to find their stride and lost to Germany. I'm still thoroughly unimpressed with the Danish attack, as Bendtner was non-existent, but Portugal never plays well with their backs against the wall. In smash-and-grab fashion, I see Denmark stealing a draw when Daniel Agger scores late to cancel out a Christiano Ronaldo goal.

Germany 2 - 3 Holland (The Netherlands)

The Oranje could be in trouble. After a devastating loss to Denmark, reports are circulating about an uprising in the clubhouse led by Rafael van der Vaart and the ability of Robin van Persie to lead the line, but Germany didn't look the powerhouses they were either against Portugal. Holland will look awful in the first 45, allowing Mario Gomez and Lukas Podolski to score for the Germans, before a different-looking side take the game to Germany after benching both van Persie and the player I think is more of a problem: Arjen Robben. Second half sub Klass-Jan Huntelaar and Wesley Sneidjer score before 21-year-old Luuk de Jong - the surprise replacement for Robben - wins the game for the Dutch.

Group C

Italy 2 - 1 Croatia

Both these teams looked wonderful on Sunday, with the Italians drawing Spain 1-1 and Croatia hammering Ireland 3-1, but no matter how many times I typed "Italy 1-2 Croatia," I couldn't let myself publish it. Italy deserved to win Saturday, and with a few tweaks could be a new favorite for the tournament. Andrea Pirlo and Antonio Cassano score for the Azzuri, and Luka Modric gets one for the Croats in a game neither team deserves to lose.

Spain 5 - 0 Rep. of Ireland

I'm not happy that I'm picking this heavy of a defeat, but Ireland struggled mightily at all positions against Croatia, and Spain will have a point to prove after struggling against Italy.  Having shocked everyone by not starting a forward on Sunday, the Spaniards go back to formula and dominate this game to send a message that they're still to be feared, with goals from Andres Iniesta, David Silva, and a trio of strikes from the man who will lead the line for the rest of the tournament: Fernando Llorente.

Group D

Sweden 0 - 1 England

I don't think Hodgson's England has many goals in them. While his team is great at the back, they look almost frightened to leave their end, so I'm not going to expect them to blow out a Sweden team that held only about 40% possession against Ukraine, despite playing well against France. A goal from Ashley Young, and a very boring England win.

France 1 - 2 Ukraine

WARNING: This pick is blinded by nostalgia. You see, back in 2004, my dad and I watched the EURO tournament and fell in love with a Ukrainian striker by the name of Andriy Shevchenko, who carried his team every time they stepped on the pitch and dazzled us in the process. My fascination with Shevchenko led me to watch star-studded Arsenal and Thierry Henry for the '04/05 season, and thus, football loving Kevin was born because of the those two stars. Little did I know that at age 35, Shevchenko would be at it again, scoring the equalizer and the winner against Sweden on Match Day 1. While I should pick France, the kid that fell in love with Shevchenko's drive and technical brilliance won't let me pick Les Bleus. Two more for Shevchenko, including a late winner that foils a goal from Franck Ribery, as the co-hosts get one step closer to the Knockout Stage.

Players who will earn transfers because of EURO 2012

Every major tournament brings a fresh batch of players who will leave their sides to join powerhouses because of their success in said tournament, and it will be no different at EURO 2012. I was going to do this last week, but I feel now that a game is under our belt, these picks might be more well-informed. 

Player - Pos. - Nation - Current Club - Interested Clubs (if applicable)

Alan Dzagoev - M - Russia - CSKA Moscow - Barcelona, Inter

Robert Lewandowski - F - Poland - Dortmund - Manchester United

Christian Erikson - M - Denmark - Manchester United

Mario Mandzuckic - F - Croatia - Wolfsburg - none currently interested

Ivan Perisic - M - Croatia - Dortmund - none currently interested

More to come...

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Thanks all. I'll be back with a new post after Match Day 2 is over. Best of luck until then.

Kevin Kryston

Co-Host - Football Central w/ Matt and Kevin

Thursdays 6-8 August-April on 99.5 and 98.1 FM WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio

EURO Pick 'Em: Match Day 1 and Grading Early Summer Tran

EURO Match Day 1: Pick 'em

I apologize for the wrong dates last post, but it's finally time for EURO 2012 to kick off. Here are my picks for Match Day 1:

Group A

Poland 1 - 0 Greece

This should be an interesting game. Both teams, with some form and some luck, could advance from this group. I think the Polish hosts kick off the tournament with an inspiring defensive performance, and somehow Robert Lewendowski is able to break through the sturdy Greek defense.

Czech Rep. 1 - 3 Russia

Many believe both these squads will advance from this tournament, but I see Russia comfortably winning this game. They're historically a good tournament team, and Dick Advocaat has his squad in good form. Two from Alan Dzagoev in the midfield, and a boost of confidence for Arsenal cast-away Andrey Arshavin should be enough to get by, with the Czechs getting a goal from young Tomas Peckhart.

Group B

Holland 4 - 1 Denmark

The "Group of Death" kicks off with the in-form Dutch squaring off in a rivalry match with surprising Denmark. The Danes have been far from impressive at any point over the last three years for me, while the Dutch look hungry. Goals galore, with Robin van Persie, Ibrahim Afellay, Klass-Jan Huntelaar, and Fenerbache new-boy Dirk Kuyt scoring for the Oranje, and Nichlas Bendtner popping his collar for Denmark.

Germany 3 - 2 Portugal

Neither team looks safe right now, and both are high powered on both ends of the pitch. For me, this comes down to two factors: goalkeeping and resolve. Advantage: Germany and advantage: Germany. Christiano Ronaldo and Nani, as well as Miroslav Klose and Mesut Ozil score in the first 70 minutes, before of all people Toni Kroos breaks the deadlock late in an exciting encounter.

Group C

Spain 1 - 1 Italy

Great match-up here. Two powerful, yet flimsy football dynasties go head to head with huge implications. Many are doubting the quality of the usually world-class Azzuri defense, while Fernando Torres, Fernando Llorente, and Negredo have failed to produce the goods for a usually ferocious Furia Roja attack. I recon neither team shows their best, and goals from Antonio di Natale and Juan Mata cause a frantic draw.

Rep. of Ireland 0 - 2 Croatia

Croatia is my darling of EURO 2012, and I feel they'll have no trouble brushing aside the shaky Irish. Mario Mandzuckic and Nicola Jelavic, who arguably make up the most in-form front line in EURO 2012, will both snatch goals in a relatively easy win for the Croatians. 

Group D

France 1 - 2 England

Arguably the most anticipated Match Day 1 encounter is the rivalry of the English Channel, with both the Three Lions and Les Bleus battling for a key Group D win. I feel Roy Hodgson's selection will be the key. No matter who he's put on the pitch has been sturdy in defense, but I feel youngsters Danny Welbeck and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be able to produce goals if in the line-up, halting France's 24 game unbeaten streak, despite a goal from red-hot Karim Benzema.

Ukraine 0 - 2 Sweden

Poland, for me, is the Match Day 1 'hosts with the most,' which unfortunately condemns Ukraine to a loss. While many comparisons can be had between Schevchenko and Ibrahimovic, two key differences are age and supporting cast, both of which are in Zlatans favor. Goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Ola Toivenen score Sweden a win at the hosts expense.

Early Transfer Grades

With a fresh batch of transfers in before EURO kicks off, I figured I'd take the time to grade what has happened thus far before things get too out of hand. With out further ado, here we go...

Eden Hazard - Lille to Chelsea - A

Even at 21, Hazards class is unprecedented. This is a great move for the Blues, and is destined to succeed. The only issue becomes what to do with the surplus left in Hazards wake, which includes Solomon Kalou, Flourent Malouda, and potentially Daniel Sturridge and German newcomer from Werder Bremen Marko Marin (who I grade a C+ transfer). Honestly, not a bad problem to have. Ask Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Shinji Kagawa - Dortmund to Manchester United - B

Great player who will make United even more millions on merchandising alone, but I'm not sure about the logic here. Kagawa isn't a good fit for the 4-4-2 that Sir Alex plays so religiously, as he's more of a 'behind the striker' midfielder. This team has few needs, but with Michael Owen and Demitar Berbatov leaving the club, I think they might have been better off signing a striker than an attacking midfielder. I wonder if they signed him because they lost out on the Hazard sweepstakes, only to find out he doesn't play the same position.

Lukas Podolski - Koln to Arsenal - A-

Great signing that shows Arsenal have learned from their transfer mishaps over the last few years. Strong, smart, and a left-foot like a cannon, the German international is as prolific as he is versatile, and can pay any advanced position in Arsene Wenger's 4-3-3. I only worry about players he forces out of the line-up, like Gervinho, Tomas Rosicky, and potentially Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, all of whom I'd like to see in the Arsenal line-up. However, this move is indicitive of changes in the Arsenal back office, and that's a good thing, as Ivan Gazidiz even talked about altering wage bills to attract big names and keep stars like Robin van Persie and Jack Wilshere. Whoa....

Ricardo Montolivo - Fiorentina to AC Milan - B+

The Italian playmaker will likely shine at the San Siro, and a free transfer, that's a good price, too. However, the final grade of this deal for me revolve around his playing time. Milan have a conjested midfield and an unstable attack right now, but if Montolivo can get his legs on the field, his passing skills and vision will do wonders for strikers Pato and Zlatan Ibrahimovic's goal production in 2012/13.

Marco Reus - Gladbach to Dortmund - A+

How this one flew under the radar is shocking. Reus is young, quick, and deadly in the attacking end of the pitch, and with Kagawa gone, he slots right into the Dortmund Starting XI with no difficulties. He'll have a helluva season, the two-time defending Bundasliga BVB, who now have a successful and talented group of youngsters that include Mario Gozte, Kevin Grosskreutz, Ivan Persisic, Robert Lewendowski, Neven Subotic, Mats Hummels, and now Reus, that could shift the balance of not only German, but all of European football.

Other Tranfers of Note

Xherdan Shiquri - Basel to Bayern Munich - B-

Claudio Pizarro - Werder Bremen to Bayern Munich - C+

Bas Dost - Heerenveen to Wolfsburg - B

Christian Rodriquez - Porto to Atl. Madrid - B-

Brett Holman - AZ Alkmaar to Aston Villa - B

Transfers that could happen before the EURO 2012 Final

Hulk - Porto to Chelsea

Jan Vertonghen - Ajax to Tottenham

Gylfi Sigurdsson - Hoffenheim to Swansea (or Liverpool?)

Rafael van der Vaart - Tottenham to Schalke or a Serie A club

Marco Verratti - Pescara to Man City, Juventus, PSG, or AC Milan

Victor Moses - Wigan to Liverpool

Grant Holt - Norwich to Aston Villa

Yann M'Vila - Stade Rennes to Arsenal

EURO Preview

EURO 2012

As most of you will know, EURO 2012 is set to kick off in Poland and The Ukraine in just five days. This is notoriously the most topsy-turvey of international tournaments, having seen massive underdogs Greece win in 2004, and outsiders Turkey and Russia make the semis in 2008. Here is my preview of each section, as well as some bold pre-tournament predictions.

Group A

Poland

Coach: Franciszek Smuda
Qualified: Automatic (hosts)
Key Player: Wojceich Szczesny
First Match: v. Greece (June 8)

The Polish qualified as co-hosts, and will certainly face a tough road to defend their home turf: they have low odds to win the tournament, as per Bet365.com. The Poles will look to the Dortmund trio of Kuba, Lukasz Piszczek, and Robert Lewendowski to lead their front, while Arsenal keeper Wojceiech Szczesny gives them a reliable keeper in the back.

Greece

Coach: Fernando Santos

Qualified: Winners (Group F)

Key Player: Sokratis Papastathopoulos

First Match: v. Poland (June 8)

Any success the Greeks have will come through organization and communication. It's what earned them the title in 2004, and they'll be looking for repeat success in 2012. A relatively lesser-known squad, young midfielder Sortis Ninis will be the best creative force, while Sokratis Papastathopoulos and Vasilis Torosidis provide strength at the back.

Russia

Coach: Dick Advocaat

Qualified: Winners (Group B)

Key Player: Alan Dzagoev
First Match: v. Czech Rep. (June 8)

Dick Advocaat will coach Russia for the last time in EURO 2012 before moving to Dutch side PSV, and he'll be looking to go out on a good note. The Russians boast many top-league talents, such as Yuri Zhirkov, Andrei Arshavin, Alan Dzagoev, Pavel Pogrebnyak, and Roman Pavlyuchenko, and boast a well-tuned defense, organized by CSKA Moscow keeper Igor Akinfeev. Their 3-0 friendly win against Italy this week sent warning signals to others in the tournament: Mother Russia is still alive and still to be feared.

Czech Republic

Coach: Michal Bilak
Qualified: Play-off (def. Montenegro 3-0 agg.)
Key Player: Petr Cech
First Match: v. Russia (June 8)

Plenty of talent here, but not much of it is tested, especially after an injury to Tomas Rosicky puts his fitness in doubt. Young strikers Tomas Peckhart and Tomas Necid will have to find a way to get goals, as Chelsea keeper Petr Cech boasts one of the best talents in the net for EURO 2012.

Prediction: Winner: Russia, Runner-up: Greece, Eliminated: Poland, Czech Rep.

Too much talent to look pas the Russians in arguably the easiest group in the tournament. The second spot is up for grabs, but I reckon Greece has just enough to qualify over up-start Poland and Czech Republic.

Group B

Denmark

Coach: Morton Olsen

Qualified: Winners (Group H)

Key Player: Christian Erikson

First Match: v. Holland (June 9)

Long-time coach Morten Olsen had a lot of trouble in South Africa for World Cup 2010, but the Danes are back for EURO 2012 having won their group, only to find themselves in a perverbial "Group of Death." Don't look past Denmark though. Diego Benaglio has a wonderful record in net for club and country, Nicklas Bendtner had a wonderful season up front on loan at Sunderland, and there's plenty of creative force in the midfield - namely Thomas Kahlenburg, Christian Erikson, and Christian Poulson - to keep the dream alive.

Holland (The Netherlands)

Coach: Bert van Marwijk

Qualified: Winners (Group E)

Key Player: Arjen Robben

First Match: v. Denmark (June 9)

The Oranje certainly have the talent to win, but will it come to be? A huge 6-0 win over Northern Ireland seems to suggest they will, but huge questions are yet to be answered, namely in form of selection. Klass-Jan Huntelaar has certainly earned the starting role he wants, but benching Robin van Persie may be impossible. Ibrahim Afellay's wonderful performances have also offered questions about his replacing of out-of-form wingers Arjen Robben or Dirk Kuyt. Marten Steklenburg boasts a great goal keeping record, and captain Mark van Bommel brings leadership and stability to a side which so desperately needs it.

Germany

Coach: Joaquim Low

Qualified: Winners (Group A)

Key Player: Manuel Neuer

First Match: v. Portugal (June 9)

As always the German's look good. 2008's runners up boast the youngest team at EURO 2012, but there is no shortage of top-flight talent to churn German machine. Mario Gotze, Mesut Ozil, Toni Kroos, and Marco Reus all head the youth class, but the form and health stalwarts Bastian Schwienstieger, Mario Gomez, Lukas Podolski, and Per Mertesacker may make the difference.

Portugal

Coach: Paulo Bento

Qualified: Playoff (def. Boznia and Herz. 6-2 agg.)

Key Player: Christiano Ronaldo

First Match: v. Germany (June 9)

EURO's most notoriously disappointing team is back and sweating after two friendly losses before their tournament campaign begins. Chemistry has long been an issue for the Portugese, but talent is not. Aside from questions at goal with Eduardo and Rui Patricio aiming for the starting role, Portugal boasts world class players such as Pepe, Nani, Fabio Coentrao, Raul Miereles, Joao Mountinho, and Golden Boot winner Christiano Ronaldo. 

Prediction: Winner: Holland, Runner-up: Germany, Eliminated: Portugal, Denmark

Holland has too much talent, and if they get it together, they should win the "Group of Death," with Germany providing their biggest challenge. Portugal will undoubtedly live up to their name and disappoint yet again, and I'd be surprised if it doesn't come at the hands of the devious Danes, who will be lucky to earn a draw in Group B.

Group C

Croatia

Coach: Slaven Bilic

Qualified: Playoff (def. Turkey 3-0 agg.)

Key Player: Luka Modric

First Match: v. Rep. of Ireland (June 10)

Slaven Bilic will quit Croatia after EURO 2012, but don't look past this side in the time being. They're a dark horse in difficult Group C, and boast many in incredibly form for their roster, namely forwards Nicola Jelavic and Mario Mandzuckic, who threaten to keep veterans Eduardo and Ivica Olic out of the team. The midfield is strong, too, with Niko Kranjcar, Luka Modric, Darijo Srna, and Ivan Rakitic. Deep and dangerous team at every position.

Republic of Ireland 

Coach:

Qualfied: Playoff (def. Estonia 5-1 agg.)

Key Player: Robbie Keane

First Match: v. Croatia (June 10)

The Irish are going to need a little luck. The odds-on favorites to bow out the easiest in EURO 2012, these underdogs hinge their efforts on plenty of unknowns to bolster their success, namely the abilities of aging striker Robbie Keane and young winger James McClean's ability to shine. There won't be any concerns over keeper Shay Given or winger Aiden McGeady, who look set to shine in Poland and Ukraine.

Italy

Coach: Cesare Prandelli

Qualified: Winners (Group C)

Key Player: Mario Balotelli

First Match: v. Spain (June 10)

The Italians have spent the last six years unsuccessfully trying to recapture the glory of World Cup 2006, and their squad shows they're ready to let go of the past. World Cup 2010's Azzurri side was very old and they bowed out quickly, but EURO '12's Italy has plenty of players dead in their prime, led by Daniele de Rossi, and bolstered by the likes of Gigi Buffon, Claudio Marchisio, Ricardo Montolivo, and Antonio di Natale. Mario Balotelli looks prone to start, but fans are yet again asking "why always him?" after his violent comments against racism.

Spain

Coach: Vincente del Bosque

Qualified: Winners (Group I)

Key Player: Andres Iniesta

First Match: v. Italy (June 10)

The reigning World and European champions are looking to repeat their success, and can you really make an argument against them? Xavi, Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Ramos, Carles Pujol, Xabi Alonso, Iker Casillas... the list goes on. An incredible and compatible midfield of mostly domestic (mainly Real Madrid and Barcelona, to be exact) midfielders, defenders, and goalkeepers. The only question may be up front with Fernando Llorente and the meme-worthy Fernando Torres providing cover for the injured David Villa.

Prediction: Winner: Spain, Runner-up: Croatia, Eliminated: Italy, Rep. of Ireland

Spain is the toast of the tournament, and I feel they win Group C. The head-turner may be my prediction of Croatia making it out of the group over Italy, but they're the most in-form team in the tournament, and if they get some goalkeeping, I feel they can knock off the tumultuous Azzuri. Ireland will sadly fail to get a point.

Group D

England

Coach: Roy Hodgson

Qualified: Winner (Group G)

Key Player: John Terry

First Match: v. France (June 11)

New manager Roy Hodgson has had only over a month to prepare the Three Lions for EURO 2012, but he seems to have done quite well. While the English have failed to impress in the attack, they also failed to concede a goal in their two friendlies in preparation for EURO 2012, having missed out on the tournament in 2008 after failing to qualify. As always, expectations and drama are high on this England squad. Frank Lampard, Gary Cahill and Garreth Barry have suffered injuries, and Wayne Rooney is out two games on suspension, so look for new skipper Steven Gerrard, old skipper John Terry, and keeper Joe Hart to stabilize the team. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ashley Young impressed in friendlies, but questions still remain about whether Andy Carroll, Jermaine Defoe, or Danny Welbeck will start up front in Rooney absence.

France

Coach: Laurent Blanc

Qualified: Winner (Group D)

Key Player: Franck Ribery

First Match: v. England (June 11)

Looking to brush the embarrassment of World Cup 2010 aside, this French side is younger, meaner, and raring to go for EURO 2012. Hugo Lloris, Franck Ribery, Patrice Evra, and Karim Benzema bring experience to the side, but youngsters Yann M'Vila, Oliver Giroud, and Samir Nasri will look to translate their club success into French glory over the coming month.

Sweden

Coach: Erik Hamren

Qualified: Best Runner-up (Group E)

Key Player: Zlatan Ibrahimavic

First Match: v. Ukraine (June 11)

It's all about Big Z. Zlatan Ibrihimavich is the class of Sweden, and their success or failure may ride solely on the strikers of the versatile strikers shoulders. EPL talents Martin and Jonas Olssen provide quality at wing back, and Seb Larsson will provide midfield help, but goals form Ibra mean Swedish delight in the Ukraine for EURO 2012.

Ukraine

Coach: Oleg Blokhin

Qualified: Automatic (hosts)

Key Player: Anatoliy Tymoshchuk

First Match: v. Sweden (June 11)

While he may still be on the team, Andriy Shevchenko likely no longer possesses the magic he showed in past EURO tournaments to carry his native Ukraine, so the co-hosts much look to other sources to defend their home turf. Andriy Pyatov is a hero for Ukrainian side Shakthar, and will look to replicate his club success between the posts for his national team. Anatoliy Tymoshchuk is their best option in the midfield, and striker Artem Milevsky will support Shevchenko as he looks to rekindle past glories.

Prediction: Winner: England, Runner-up: France, Eliminated: Ukraine, Sweden

Relatively straight-forward group as France and England are a step above Ukraine and Sweden, who both suffer from over-reliance on star players. I figure England to win because of their strength in the back. Many see similarities to Hodgson's Fulham side in his new English team, a nice resemblance to have, as Hodgson's Cottagers were notorious for over-achieving and tournament-built team which made an unprecedented run to the Europa League Final in 2010.

This is as far as I'll go for now, but expect a full breakdown of the remaining teams when we reach the rundown. For my money, I've got Holland defeating Spain in the Final in a rematch of the World Cup 2010 Final, with England beating Croatia in the 3rd Place game.

Liverpool's New Manager

The only other real news of note is that former Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers has agreed to become the next manager of Liverpool, effective immediately. Rodgers replaces Kenny Danglish, who left after only a season and a half as Reds manager after missing European football and finishing below rival Everton. He was said to be the second choice for the job, but Wigan boss Roberto Martinez turned down the job when he found out his managerial powers would be dampened as new owner John Henry looks to make his mark on the Merseyside club. Rodgers is famous for bringing Swansea City into the Premeirship in 2011-12, making them the first Welsh side to entire the top-league in over fifty years. He did it in an unconventional fashion, too, challenging the notion that small sides must focus on defense and employing possession tactics to the Swans attack. The method was successful, as Swansea finished 11th and had one of the ten best passing percentages among European clubs.


Reception of Rodgers has been mixed, as some worry if he'll be able to cope with the pressures of being Liverpool's manager, while others praise his tactics and believe he will be a success. One thing is for sure: changes will come at Liverpool, especially in the transfer market. The team has a surplus of players at many positions, and speculation has already arisen about the futures of many current Reds. Joe Cole and Alberto Aquilani spent their seasons on loan at Lille and AC Milan, respectively, and are both expected to leave the club. Other players possibly on the way out include Maxi Rodriguez and Jay Spearing, who failed to win time in the first team, Daniel Agger and Stuart Downing, who had disappointing seasons at Anfield in 2011/12, and Luis Suarez and Dirk Kuyt, who have attracted interest from top clubs in Italy, Spain, and Germany. What Rodgers chooses to do with these players remains a question.


Another question is what Rodgers will do with a large transfer budget. Swansea was weak on finances, but this problem is not shared by Liverpool, as ownership could give Rodgers upwards of 40 million pounds to spend this summer. A raid of his old club could be in line, as Swansea midfielders Joe Allen and Gylfi Sigurdsson could be potential targets. All other targets are pure speculation, as no one quite knows what Rodgers will do with his new funds.


Personally, I see Rodgers as a success. His tactics are solid, and he has a keen eye for transfers having brought in successes in Sigurdsson and Scott Sinclair to Swansea during his tenure. Really though, the pressure could buckle him, as it did to Roy Hodgson in 2010. Time will tell, but this is yet another shake up to add to Norwich manager Paul Lamberts move to Aston Villa after leading the Canaries from League 1 to the Premiership in less than five years. Summer of fun (as always) over in England!


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That's it for me. A long and exhausting piece. Best of luck until next time!


Kevin Kryston
Host, Football Central with Matt and Kevin
99.5 and 98.1 FM WUDR Dayton Flyer Radio