Chelsea losing their season-beginning magic?

The Chelsea manager was again the focal point in the match at Stamford Bridge versus Manchester City. Some fans chanted "f*** off Benitez, you're not welcome here", while other sign said "Rafa out". Another signboard said "In Roberto we trusted and loved, In Rafa we will never trust. Fact". Quite sad as football should be the forefront, not other aspects.

So who is to be blamed for this? The Owner obviously. The players and fans both seemed happy with Roberto Di Matteo. It was just a bad spell for Di Matteo and I'm sure he would come out of it. Not to forget he is the only manager who took Chelsea to the perch of European football by winning the Champions League, that too with a not so good team. Abramovich really needs to have patience. Football is long term and not short term, therefore should be more careful with his decisions. Well, but that's not going to happen. During the match yesterday, Stamford roared in applause in the 16th min. thanking or rather showing support to Di Matteo as the no. 16 was his shirt no. as a player. 

Now, what's happened has happened. Fans need to get over this as protests will only hurt the players and the team as a whole. They really need to give Benitez a chance after all he has the 'big club experience' with Liverpool, Valencia and Inter Milan. Recently even Cech voiced his concern by saying that the fans should give Benitez a chance. Boo's echoed at Stamford Bridge after the match versus Manchester City when they drew 0-0.

On the performance point of view, Chelsea played with almost no intensity, lacking confidence , unlike the start of the season. Manchester City on the other hand more opportunities, more shots on goal compared to Chelsea. Man City dominated possession as well. It really seems hard to gulp it down that Chelsea having players like Mata, Hazard, Oscar in the midfield failed to get a good performance at home. Two youngsters who seem to be doing well from both the teams are Azpilicueta of Chelsea and Nastasic of Man City. It's great to see some young guns in teams which have been big spenders in the last few seasons.

Stats

Possession

Chelsea - 42%

Man City - 58%

Shots (on target)

Chelsea - 6(1)

Man City - 9(5)

Full TIme : 0-0

Are Manchester United really comeback kings? Some stats that may just prove it wrong

Manchester United and comebacks are synonymous. Yesterday marked another day of a Manchester United comeback. This makes the number of comebacks in the Premier League to 6, i.e. 18 points from comebacks. Not forgetting that Manchester United also have another 3 comebacks in the Champions League, i.e. 9 points from comebacks. Making it 27 comebacks points in all competitions this season. But are they the all-time comeback kings?

Manchester United comebacks this season

• Aug 25: From 0-1 down to beat Fulham 3-2
• Sept 2: From 0-1 and 1-2 to beat Southampton 3-2
• Sept 23: from 0-1 down to beat Liverpool 2-1
• Oct 2: From 0-1 down to beat Cluj 2-1
• Oct 20: From 0-1 to beat Stoke 4-2
• Oct 23: From 0-2 down to beat Braga 3-2
• Nov 7: From 0-1 down to beat Braga 3-1
• Nov 10: From 0-2 to beat Aston Villa 3-2
• Nov 25: From 0-1 to beat QPR 3-1

What's common in all the comebacks is that Manchester United have been very poor in the first half. And then in the second half, Manchester United become a rejuvenation team. Substitutions are key to their comebacks as well. Hernandez doing his part as a super-sub. Anderson in yesterday's match was the key when he came on as a sub. He spurned on things and even provided an assist for Hernandez's goal.

What's poor about this Manchester United team is that they are conceding goals regularly, unlike the past United sides. That's a cause of concern for the manager. Injuries have also contributed to conceding goals as Vidic, Smalling, Jones have been out for most part of the campaign ,while Ferdinand and Evra are getting older. But nevertheless comebacks make the match even more spectacular.

The comeback League(Top 5) in the Premier League.

Man Utd : 18
Man City: 14
Everton  : 10
Chelsea :   9
Arsenal  :   5

Manchester City aren't far behind, while Chelsea, Arsenal and Everton are also the top comeback teams. This shows that the big teams are actually top teams because they have the ability to get back after going behind. The only difference between Manchester United and the other teams is that they do it on regular basis every season. No doubt they are comeback kings this season. Although an interesting stats tells that Manchester United do not hold the record for most comeback points. Newcastle United hold that record

Most comeback points in a season

Newcastle   :34 (2001-02) / 4th 

West Brom  :27 (2010-11) / 11th 

Arsenal       :24 (1999-2000) / 2nd 

Everton       :24 (2002-03) / 7th 

Man United :24 (1999-2000) / 1st 

Tottenham   :24 (2010-11) / 5th 

Blackburn    :23 (2007-08) / 7th 

Man United :23 (2002-03) / 1st 

QPR           :23 (1992/-93) / 5th 

Arsenal       :22 (2006-07) / 4th 

Liverpool     :22 (2008-09) / 2nd 

Newcastle   :22 (1996-97) / 2nd 

Although Manchester United have comebacks on regular basis, Newcastle hold the record for the most comeback points with 34. But they only finished in 4th position that season, whereas Manchester United have had comebacks and usually end up winning the Premier League. So no matter who hold the comeback record, in people's heart and by spirit, it Manchester United the real comeback kings.

The Sir Alex Ferguson bronze statue unveiled outside Old Trafford

Earlier in the day a Statue of the Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was unveiled. Crowds of approximately 2,500 were gathered outside Old Trafford for the statue unveiling at 2 pm  The statue is 9 foot in height and made of bronze. Gold wouldn't be too bad either, eh?. Not the forget Sir Alex even has a stand named after him, outside which the statue is placed.

The statue unveiling was was done by none other than Cathy Ferguson, the wife of the Manchester United manager, whom Sir Alex described as the 'real boss'. The statue sculpture, Phillip Jackson, also sculpted the statue of Sir Matt Busby. Jackson said, " "I’ve tried to portray him as a man of great determination and as a thinking man, but also with humour which he has in abundance, so there’s just a slight smile in the corner of his mouth. That’s really what I wanted to portray."

In attendance were several current and former Manchester United players, including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Andy Cole, Denis Irwin, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Peter Schmeichel, Edwin van der Sar and Eric Cantona. But former Old Trafford favorites David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo weren't present due to their club obligations. They sent pre-recorded messages.

Ronaldo added: 'You 100 per cent deserve this with what you have done. I wish to be there with you but my schedule is busy with games as you know. I hope to see you soon because I need to practice my English and not my Scottish. Thanks boss. All the best to you.'

Beckham added: 'Sorry I can't be there for this amazing day. My time at Manchester United was without doubt the best of my career and I cherish those moments.'

Sepp Blatter, the FIFA president wasn't present either but sent a pre-recorded message, saying, "He is unique because he has put a high standard to his club his players and also to himself," Blatter said. "I was so happy that I had the opportunity to bestow him with the FIFA President's award and he was happy to receive it. I am proud and I wish him well in the future to him and his family and the club Manchester United. Thank you, Sir Alex."

It was an auspicious day for Sir Alex with the unveiling of the statue as the club celebrated his 26 years in charge, during which he won an astonishing 37 trophies. He described it as a proud moment.

Sir Alex said, "Normally people die before they see their statue, so I'm out-living death," added Ferguson.

"I've had an incredible journey at the club and I've had so many great players, some of whom are here today.

"They should build this statue for them all, because they've been absolutely marvellous.

"From 1986 right through to today, the players have given us enormous pleasure.

"Everyone has had a part to play, from the players to the coaching staff, medical staff and, of course, the fans."

He also thanked his wife for her support throughout his career but joked: "Cathy has promised that every Saturday morning she's going to come down here and bow to the statue!" He still has his sense of humour, doesn't he?

Not to forget Sir Alex Ferguson has also been bestowed as the Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by the Queen of England due to his contributions in the field of football.

Rafael Benitez is back.. with Chelsea

I don't know whether it's good news or bad news, but it's confirmed that the former Champions League winner with Liverpool, Rafael Benitez has been appointed as the next manager at Chelsea. The contract is an 18-month long one, which allows Benitez to stay with the defending Champions in the Champions League till the end of next season.

From what reactions of the fans and pundits is that most of the weren't happy with Benitez's appointment, especially the Chelsea fans, who were over-ambitious in the prospect of landing a bigger manager.

Pep Guardiola was also tipped to become the next Chelsea manager. But it is reported that he turned down the Chelsea offer. Her is what his agent had to say "Pep Guardiola will not decide anything before January. I was with him in New York a fortnight ago and he told me that until January or February he will not decide if he is going to go back to coaching and which team he will choose."

He continued: "It does not matter what happens [in the meantime], before that period he will not make any decision about any club or national team."
He added: "Pep will make the decision himself, he has the personality to do that. He is with his family right now, resting, reading, enjoying his hobbies, watching football and in January he will start to think about what team he could be at next season."

So did Benitez say regarding his appointment? "I think it's a top side who want to challenge for trophies. We will think about one game at a time so we'll just try to win the next game." Regarding fans protest, he said, "The fans all want the same thing as the manager - and that's to win games."

Benitez profile
Born - Madrid, Spain
Age  - 52
Teams managed - 
1994–1995    Real Madrid B
1995–1996    Real Valladolid
1996–1997    Osasuna
1997–1999    Extremadura
2000–2001    Tenerife
2001–2004    Valencia
2004–2010    Liverpool
2010             Internazionale

Win percentage (Major clubs)
Valencia         - 53.37%
Liverpool         - 55.43%
Internazionale - 48%

Achievements (Major clubs)
Valencia         - 2 La Liga titles, 1 UEFA Cup
Liverpool         - 1 UEFA Champions League, 1 FA Cup, 1 UEFA Super Cup
Internazionale - 1 SuperCoppa, 1 FIFA Club World Cup

Some incredible stats of Messi in the Champions League!

Another good night for Barcelona and another good night for Leo Messi, after scoring a brace for Barcelona in their 3-0 win over Spartak Moscow in Russia. This takes him to the 2nd position on the list of all time top scorer in the Champions League (excluding qualifying rounds) along with Ruud Van Nistelrooy. Very hard to believe that he is only 25 years of age.

Champions League stats for Messi
Matches               - 73
Goals                   - 56
Goal-Match ratio   - 0.77

The only person having scored more goals more than Messi is Raul, who played for Real Madrid and Schalke, and scored 71 goals in 144 games. Messi top scored last season in the Champions League. In the current season, Messi is the joint top scorer with 5 goals, and no one can bet against him this season also. Also in the list of all time top scorers, only Alfred Di Stefano has a better match-goal ratio with 0.88. And people wondering about Cristiano Ronaldo, he is not far off with 43 goals in 84 games.

Considering the team Messi plays for, the form he is in and the type of player he is, looks like he is on the way to become the All time top scorer in the Champions League. Not to forget he's only 25.

Some amazing achievements by Messi in the Champions League/ European Cup
a) Leo Messi is also the only person to have top scored in 4 consecutive season from 2008-09 till the 20011-12 season

b) Messi is only one of the four players who has scored 3 hat tricks in the Champions League

c) Messi is the only player to score 2 hat tricks in 1 Champions League season (2011-12)

d) Messi and Di Stefano are the only players to top score in a season with 14 goals

e) Messi is only one of eleven players to score 5 goals in a single match

What an amazing player he is. As a footballing fan, you can only hope that he continues to break all records.

Roberto Di Matteo sacked. Are Chelsea becoming a laughing stock?

Have to say, it's really sad times for Chelsea. Surrounded by racism allegations against the club captain John Terry, who was banned for 4 matches by the English FA, then in the match against Manchester United, Chelsea were caught in a spat with the referee and even alleging the referee of racial abuse towards John Obi Mikel and Juan Mata, though nothing has been proved against the referee Mar Clattenburg. Juan Mata even saying he never heard a thing. And in more recent news, Chelsea have sacked their manager Roberto Di Matteo after a string of bad perfornances

Roberto Di Matteo's time a Chelsea (4th March - 21 Nov 2012)
Matches - 42
Won       - 24
Draw      - 9
Lost        - 9
Win %    - 57.14

So, Roberto Di Matteo has lasted for 262 days, which is more than that of past Chelsea managers, namely Villas-Boas (256), Grant (247) & Scolari (223)

Is it a wise decision?
As we all know, it is the club owner Roman Abramovich who makes all the major decision. Let's not forget that Di Matteo came at Chelsea when they weren't doing that well. Somehow Di Matteo managed to get the required results and achieved something that not even Jose Mourinho could achieve at the club, that is, to win the Champions League. In addition to that he even won the FA Cup. It ended as a satisfactory season for the blues last season thanks to Di Matteo.

Considering the current season, Chelsea sit in 3rd position in the League with only 4 points off the leaders Manchester City. Surely that is not that bad after only 12 games into the season. In the Champions League, nothing's over as yet. They need to win the final group game and there is a huge possibility that Shaktar will beat Juventus at their home stadium. If that happens then Chelsea go through. As of the League cup, they just knocked of Manchester United out of it.

Honestly, nothing was going that bad. Chelsea are in it in every competition. They made a wrong decision years ago when they sacked the fan favorite Jose Mourinho. They made a bad decision again. Sacking managers mid-season isn't good for any club. It disrupts the stability and the season starts going haywire. 

The only reason I see for the sacking of Di Matteo is the recent form, that is, the last 8 games, when in they lost 4 and drawn 2, winning only 2 games, and also cause they think they are in danger of going out of the Champions League after losing to Juventus 3-0. Even Manchester United and Manchester City were out of the Champions League at the group stage. They didn't sack their respective managers as they have realized it only harms the teams. Honestly, I wish Di Matteo had been given a little more time.

Successor?
Recently, with Chelsea's bad form in the light, many reports suggested that Pep Guardiola could join Chelsea as he is still unemployed. Other reports even suggests the former Liverpool manager Benitez to be the next Chelsea manager, but I'm not sure if that will happen. Not to forget our very own Jose Mourinho. Jose stated many times that he would love to manage a Premier League team again. Many look at him as a successor for Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, but he recently did mention that he would love to play against SAF again instead of replacing him. With SAF still looking good at Manchester United, I think the only option for Mourinho is to join another Premier League team. And here another opportunity beckons with the Chelsea managerial spot up for grabs. I'm sure Chelsea fans wouldn't mind him getting back at Stamford Bridge. Apart from these well know managers I can't see anyone else who can show that caliber for the tedious job. But you never can predict anything in football. It always surprises you.

Chelsea out of the Champions League? Here are the possibilities..

Before Tuesday night games were played out, everything seemed good for Chelsea with 7 points, Shaktar Donetsk also with 7 points, and Juventus win 6 points. Little did footballing fans know how the table would turn out to be after the round 5 matches were played.

With focus on the Juventus-Chelsea game in Turin, it seemed to go well for Chelsea in the first half, until Fabio Quagliarella scored for Juventus in the 38th min. It was a well deserved lead as Juventus did look sharp all game. So it ended 1-0 to Juventus in the first half. With the commencement of the second half, hopes of all the few Chelsea fans who traveled to the Juventus stadium were dashed when Vidal scored to make it 2-0. A deflected goal, but nevertheless Vidal was one of the brightest players on the field. And with now way back for Chelsea, Sebastian Giovinco made it 3-0 in injury time and the match ended 3-0 much to the disappointment of the Chelsea supporters.

Looking at the stats, Chelsea did have more possession  than Juventus overall, with 55% of the ball, although Chelsea were slow on the ball, and therefore lacked the cutting edge. Juventus had a bulk of shots on target with over 12 shots, while Chelsea had a mere 2 shots on target. So, once again it is proved that no matter how much possession, doesn't mean you'd score the goals. Chelsea proved it last season against Barcelona in the Champions League final, and now Juventus against Chelsea themselves.

In the other match, Shaktar vs Nordsjælland, Shaktar won 5-2 but were criticized for scoring a goal from a drop ball situation, where a Shaktar player was to pass the ball back to the opposition goalkeeper, but just before the ball could reach the goalkeeper, a Shaktar player collected the ball and put it in the back of the net. No fair play, huh?

So, this is how it stands in the group

Group Table

Club                         P    G    W    D    L    GD
Shakhtar Donetsk    10      5    3     1    1      5
Juventus                   9      5    2     3     0     7
Chelsea FC               7     5    2     1     2      1
FC Nordsjælland       1      5    0     1     4    -13

So, the question is what can we expect on the final day of the Champions League group stage?

It's Chelsea vs FC Nordsjælland at Stamford Bridge and Shaktar Donetsk vs Juventus at the Donbass Arena. With Chelsea playing at home and Nordsjælland with only 1 point from 5 Champions League games. Fans could expect a Chelsea win. Although in the other group game, it's much more tighter.

The Permutations

So,if Chelsea want to progress further, they must win. 

a) If Chelsea win, and Juventus & Shaktar draw.

Shaktar   - 11 points

Juventus -  10 points

Chelsea  - 10 points

Shaktar and Juventus qualify, unless Chelsea beat Nordsjælland by 7 goals to get a better GD than Juventus, then Shaktar and Chelsea qualify

b) If Chelsea win, and also Shaktar win vs Juventus.

Shaktar   - 13 points

Chelsea  - 10 points

Juventus  - 9 points

Shaktar and Chelsea qualify

c) If Chelsea win, and also Shaktar lose vs Juventus.

Juventus - 12 points

Shaktar   - 10 points

Chelsea  - 10 points

Juventus qualify. Depending on how many goals Chelsea beat Nordsjælland and by how many goals Shaktar lose, Chelsea or Shaktar qualify

d) If Chelsea draw or lose their game, inevitably, Shaktar and Juventus qualify.

Snopp Dogg to invest in a Champions League club?

Interesting news coming in that the ever so popular American rapper Snopp Dogg said he wants to invest in a football club. Yes! Not American football, but a real football club. And just as when you think it's one of the big clubs he wants to invest in, like Barcelona or Real Madrid, but no. The club that caught his eye is the Scottish club Celtic

He said: “I got a lot of interest in soccer. It’s not a new thing for hip hop stars to invest in sports teams but it is a new thing for hip hop stars to invest in soccer teams.

“I didn’t catch the whole Barcelona game but I watched the highlights. I know Barcelona are
a big deal, and it shows Celtic are a big deal as well.

“I see how passionate Celtic fans are about their team and I could see myself making an investment if any of the board wanted to sell.

“I haven’t really thought how much. I don’t need to run a soccer club but enough of a percentage to get me on the board so I can be heard.

“I want to bring a bit of Snoop to things.

“I am passionate about my sport. The boxes at Celtic would never be the same once I have hosted a party there.”

So, it wouldn't be a bad deal would it? After all it's Snopp Dogg. He's estimated to be worth some $120+ million. Move over he has even consulted David Beckham for advice and even said he could make efforts to sign David Beckham. Not bad for a club of Celtic's stature. So if the deal goes ahead, Beckham could be back in the U.K only with a different team. 

So, yeah, it's the magic of the UEFA Champions League. We love it. Now, Snopp Dogg loves it. hopefully, he invests in the club and make it a better club from what it is now and more over it could play catalyst for other celebrities to invests in European clubs.

Celtic fans, do you like it?

5-2 derby win. So Is the Arsenal of old back?

What ever people say, whatever club you support, there is no denying that Arsenal-Tottenham games are one of the most exciting in the Premier League. But well, honesty, everyone thought that today's match at the Emirates would be a close one. Wasn't a tight game but still good enough to spend our time watching it.

It started of well with Defoe getting behind the defenders and getting a shot on, then Adebayor on to pounce on it to score the goal within the first 10 mins . Have to say it was poor defending by the Arsenal backline. And just you think could it be Tottenham this time? Adebayor gets a red card. Ahh.. After that it was all Arsenal in the match with Mertesacker equalizing in the 24th min. Arsenal continued to dominate possession and with Tottenham one man down, there was no way back. Podolski and Giroud it 3-1 to end the first half.

When they came out for the second half, you got a feeling the Tottenham may just buckle up and get something out of it, but that was not to be. Cazorla who was the star of the whole show got on the scoresheet in the 60th min, then it was all over and both the teams were just playing for the sake of it. Bale then got one back for Tottenham to make it 4-2 but time was running out. Later on, Walcott added another one in injury time to make it 5-2. A similar scoreline, the last time Arsenal won at the Emirates against Tottenham it did end 5-2. Wilshere did show some class. The real upcoming star.

The question is whether did Arsenal really perform well to get this result or was it the Adebayor red card early. Like always, everyone anticipated a tight game as long as it remains 11 versus 11. But really, Tottenham going to 10 man team changed it all. Arsenal fans may say that Arsenal do have better players but the truth is Arsenal still have to prove things as a team. Considering the position in the Premier League right now, the Champions League position, you have to say that this isn't the Arsenal of old. The Veira's, Bergkamp's, no one like them now. But you can still see light in players suck as Wilshere, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jenkinson. But nothing done yet cause they seem to be the future not present. But Arsenal do have some established players in Arteta and Cazorla and Giroud is starting to win the confidence of the Arsenal fans. This is where may be they can start from.

So yes, the red card definitely did play the part or else could have been a 50-50 match. But the confidence you gain from winning such derbies, especially the North London derby. Now you can hope Arsenal carry on from here. As for Tottenham, they really have only one star in Bale and really need to get up do something of their lack-lustre display.

Gerrard's 100 England cap.. but Ibra steals the show

Very few people get to represent their country for the 100th time. Steven Gerrard is one of them. Before him only 5 other players have made 100+ appearances for England. Peter Shilton with the most appearances with 125, followed by David Beckam, Bobby Moore, Bobby Charlton and Billy Wright.

Although 100 caps for any player is incredible, great. But can we say the same for Steven Gerrard? Legend? The answer is No. Yes, he is a remarkable player but most of his better performances have come for club rather than country. One may remember Gerrard's goal against AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League final, or the goal against West Ham in the FA Cup final in 2006.. which has great significance and won trophies for Liverpool. Can you say the same about Gerrard's performances for England? Probably not

This what Gerrard had to say, 'To be here on the eve of 100 is an unbelievable achievement for me and my family. When I speak about it the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.

'There have been great players before me and ones I've played with who haven't got to that milestone. It's very flattering.'

Talking about England's 5-1 victory against Germany in Munich in 2001,

'I'd probably say that's the strongest England team I've played in,' said Gerrard. 'It had great balance between young and  experienced players. We had some world-class players.

'I know the "Golden Generation" gets spoken about, which is  something I don't really like, but when you look at that team from front to back it was really strong.

'That group of players under-achieved at big tournaments. That team should certainly have got to a semi-final.

'We were unlucky at times in the penalty shootouts but that's certainly a regret. That group of players should've done better.' 

He also admitted that he doesn't consider himself a hero for England and suggests that the only heroes that England had were the 11 players who won the World Cup in 1966. So it was Gerrard who captained out England against Sweden at the Friends Arena on the 14th of November 2012, marking his 100th appearance for England. Sweden won the game 4-2, nevertheless, it was a captains performance against Sweden with his swift passing also assisting England's 2nd goal. 

But probably a night to forget for all English fans as the star of the show was the Swedish captain, Zlatan Ibrahimovic who scored all the 4 goals for Sweden, and the most memorable one was the overhead kick out from 30 yards into an empty net. After the game, Gerrard himself admitted that it was probably the best goal he had ever seen.

Gerrard's current stats
Debut : Vs Ukraine on 31th May 2000

First goal : Vs Germany in the 5-1 win in 2001

Appearances : 100
Goals : 19

Subs and the super-sub!

Substitute, as the word suggests is replacement. In terms of football is to replace one player with another. Initially substitutes in football were only used when a player failed to turn up for a match (who was expected to be a part of the match)

The first known substitution in a football match for an absent player happened as early in the 1850s. Later in the following years many references have been made of substitutions of a absent player or of an injured player during matches. The first ever substitution used in an international match was way back in the year 1889, on 15th April in the match between Wales and Scotland. Substitution happened when Wales' original goalkeeper, Jim Trainer failed to arrive in time The kick-off was delayed while a replacement was sought; eventually the match got underway with local amateur player, Alf Pugh in goal, before Sam Gillam arrived some twenty minutes into the match to take over as a substitute. Next, as early as the qualifying phase for the World Cup in 1954, substitutions were permitted in the games, with the first ever replacement being Germany's Horst Eckel during their match with Saarland ion 11th October 1953

Considering English League, substitutions were first permitted in the 1965-66 season. As for the first two seasons after substitutes were permitted, each side could make 1 substitution. Moreover, the substitute could only replace an injured player. Later in the 1967-68 season, substitutions could be made for tactical reasons. On 21 August 1965, Keith Peacock of Charlton Athletic became the first substitute used in the Football League when he replaced injured goalkeeper Mike Rose eleven minutes into their away match against Bolton Wanderers. On the same day, Bobby Knox became the first ever substitute to score a goal when he scored for Barrow against Wrexham

In the following years, teams were enabled to name up to 5 or 7 substitutes on the 'bench', depending on the league and competition, out of which maximum of 3 of those substitutes could be used. In the Premier League, teams could name up to 5 substitutes on the bench as announced in the year 1996, until the 2008-09 season when the FA permitted 7 substitutes to be named on the bench.

Here are some of the official footballing laws relating to substitution :

According to the law of the game(2007–08):

1) A player may only be substituted during a stoppage in play and with the permission of the referee. The player to be substituted (outgoing player) must have left the field of play before the substitute (incoming player) may enter the field of play; at that point the substitute becomes a player and the person substituted ceases to be a player. The incoming player may only enter the field at the half-way line. Failure to comply with these provisions may be punished by a caution (yellow card).

2) A player who has been substituted may take no further part in a match.

3) Both unused substitutes still on the bench, as well as players who have been already substituted, remain under the authority of the referee. These are liable for misconduct, though can not be said to have committed a foul. For example, in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, Claudio Caniggia was shown the red card for cursing at the referee from the bench.

4) Under the Laws, the referee has no specific power to force a player to be substituted, even if the team manager or captain has ordered their player to be substituted. If a player refuses to be substituted play may simply resume with that player on the field. However, in some situations players may still be liable to punishment with a caution (yellow card) for time wasting or unsporting behaviour.

5) A player who has been sent off (red card) may not be substituted; the team will have to make do with the remaining players. In the case of a goalkeeper who is sent off, such as in the 2006 UEFA Champions League Final, the coach will usually (but is not required to) substitute an outfield player so that the backup goalkeeper can enter the game.

6) Up to a maximum of six substitutes may be used in any match played in an official competition organised under the auspices of FIFA, the confederations or the member associations. 

Also:

: In national A team matches, up to a maximum of six substitutes may be used. 

: In all other matches, a greater number of substitutes may be used provided that:

a) The teams concerned reach agreement on a maximum number

b) The referee is informed before the match.

: If the referee is not informed, or if no agreement is reached before the match, no more than six substitutes are allowed.

Substitutes are of increased significance these days for tactical reasons, for crucial goals as a substitute, known as super-sub. Ole Gunnar Solskjær, probably the best of the super-subs

Some interesting stats relating to substitutes in the Premier League :

Most times substituted : Nolberto Solano (132 times - Newcastle United, Aston Villa, West Ham United)

Most times on bench : Steve Harper (321 times - Newcastle United)

Most times off bench : Nwankwo Kanu (118 times - Arsenal, Porstmouth, West Bromwich Albion)

Fastest goal by a substitute : Nicklas Bendtner (1.8 sec, For Arsenal vs Tottenham, 22nd Dec 2007)

Fastest red card for a substitute during field of play : 

Walter Boyd (Swansea City, 12 March 2000),

Keith Gillespie (Sheffield United, 20 January 2007)

In the current scenario, Edin Dzeko has scored 11 goals of the bench in the Premier League, while Javier Hernandez has scored 16 goals off the bench in total, although Ole Gunnar Solskjær remains at the top with 29 goals off the bench (including 17 League goals). Some of the other super-subs includes Fairclough, Tore Andre Flo and Teddy Sheringham. 

Wilfried Zaha : The rising star..

His full name - Dazet Wilfried Armel Zaha. More popularly known as Wilfried Zaha. He was born in the country of Ivory Coast, but later on moved over to South London in England with his family at the age of 4. He recently celebrated his birthday on the 10th of November, turning 20. He plays as a winger for Crystal Palace. His performances have also earned him 5 England U21 appearances. Recently he was also selected in the senior England squad for the match against Sweden on the 14th of November at the Friends Arena

Age - 20
Club - Crystal Palace
Appearances - 110
Goals - 17 
Assists - 10

His inclusion in the England squad is quite controversial as he hasn't even played in the Premier League. More over, there also have been better choices, in terms of players, have been ignored. It has been said that his inclusion in the England squad is to prevent him from being capped by his country of birth, that is Ivory Coast, as he is still eligible to play for his country of birth according to FIFA rules, until he makes his England debut.

Didier Drogba is also said to have intervened in this matter. Zaha recently said, "Didier called me and I was shocked, to be honest. He’s a humble guy and he was just talking to me about the Ivory Coast.

"I was born in the Ivory Coast but all I know is England. It’s 50-50 at the moment but it’s a choice I will have to make at some stage"

"I’ve been with the Under 21s and, now that I am with England, I will have to make a decision."

But at this stage it can also be noted that he will still be eligible to play for Ivory Coast even if he makes his debut for England against Sweden as according to FIFA rules, this match is a Non-competitive match.

Recently he even said that the Premier League is the place to be. Many clubs are said to be tracking Zaha. Stoke City and Wigan were after his signature, and now even Manchester United are said to be in the fray.

Considering that already at the age of 20 and with over 100 Championship appearances with Crystal Palace he is ready to make it to the big stage. With Crystal Palace looking good in the Championship, we could see him playing in the Premier League next season with his current club.

Although he plays on the right wing, after watching some of his videos, it came to my notice that he loves to come infield quite often. He has pace and love taking on defenders, a feature which most young Englishmen lack. Never is shy to take a shot on goal. Although he is good player right now, he still has a long way before he reaches that Premier League level. Nevertheless, a rising star.

Messi or Ronaldo? Who is better

Before that let us consider some stats

Leo Messi
Age : 25

Club appearances : 346
Club goals : 273

Country appearances : 75
Country goals : 31

Cristiano Ronaldo

Age : 27

Club appearances : 484
Club goals : 288

Country appearances : 100
Country goals : 37

To start off, I think both Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are two of the most extra-ordinary players currently playing. Considering the stats, Messi at the age of 25 and Ronaldo at the age of 27 are both in their  prime. When you see the club stats, it comes to one's notice that Messi has a better Appearance to goal ratio compared to Ronaldo, while it's more or less even when it comes to country stats

Now when to look at the club careers, it more suits Messi because he has only played for one club all his life, so there doesn't arise a question of adjustment, secondly, Messi has always played for an established team and always in his preferable position. Hence, it has only aided his and therefore has never been on the back-foot  At the same time when you look at Ronaldo's club career, he has played in total for 3 clubs, Portugal's Sporting Lisbon, then Manchester United and later on for Real Madrid. This also includes 3 different countries, Portugal, England and Spain. But whichever place he has played his trend, he has always impressed. Secondly, he is also used to playing in many positions. I remember him playing on the right wing, left wing as well as a striker. That shows his versatility.

When it comes to proving one's self, both Messi and Ronaldo have done it in their own ways. Messi has won many individual trophies and team trophies too. But what I think is the highlight of his game is that he understands the game around himself. His dribbling in combination with his passing has made him impeccable. When it comes to playing with Barcelona, he has played always in compliance of his team's style of play. Xavi, Iniesta have always been auxiliary to his game. Over the last few years he has also improved his finishing which is why he has been the top scorer in the last couple of years. And more importantly he has always delivered when needed. 

Ronaldo on the other hand has won lesser individual and team trophies compared to Messi, but that doesn't take anything away from him. Ronaldo is a player who can carry an entire team on his shoulder. I remember when he played for Manchester United and at times he won games single handed, something which Messi can do, but to a lesser extent. Considering his playing attributes, one can say the he is one of the best headers of the ball, I've never seen anyone better. He has slightly more speed than Messi, which usually helps on one on one situations.

What personally I feel is that Messi is the most naturally talented footballer on the planet currently, where as Ronaldo has up-ed his game through his dedicated hard work as also proved himself as an on field leader. Nevertheless, both are great footballers and can easily be said that any one of them could easily dominate the world of football, if the other one wouldn't exist. Another important thing is that both of them have been injury free for most of their careers. Both deserve to be where they are and currently play for the world's best two club - Barcelona and Real Madrid, and rightly so.

Club stats for previous 5 seasons

Leo Messi :

2008-09 - Apps : 51  Goals : 38

2009-10 - Apps : 53  Goals : 47

2010-11 - Apps : 55  Goals : 53

2011-12 - Apps : 60  Goals : 73

2012-13 - Apps : 17  Goals : 20 (ongoing)

Cristiano Ronaldo :

2008-09 - Apps : 53  Goals : 26

2009-10 - Apps : 35  Goals : 33

2010-11 - Apps : 54  Goals : 53

2011-12 - Apps : 55  Goals : 60

2012-13 - Apps : 17  Goals : 19 (ongoing)

So it is upto you to decide who is better than the other..

Wayne Rooney - Already a Legend?

I have been a Wayne Rooney fan ever since I have started watching football, and after all the football he has played over the years, it's surprising to know he just turned 27 on the 24th of October 2012, Even at 27, he is regarded as one of the all time greats for club and country.

Somethings that many people wouldn't know is that Wayne Rooney is of Irish descent, but born in the city of Liverpool. He grew up supporting the blue half of Liverpool, that is Everton. When aged 9, playing for Copplehouse boys' club, he scored a record 99 goals in that season. Later was spotted by an Everton scout. As a 11 year old he even stood as a mascot for the Everton-Liverpool derby.

Wayne is such a talented footballer that at the age of 15 played for the Everton under 19s. He even led the Everton youth team to the FA youth cup final in 2002 In the same season he was an unused substitute for the game against Southampton. Next season, at the age of 16, was promoted to the first team and made his debut against Tottenham, becoming the second youngest player to play for the senior Everton side. He scored his first ever goal against Wrexham in the League Cu, but it was against Arsenal in the Premier League that he announced himself when he scored the last minute winner, ending Arsenal's 30 game unbeaten run and also becoming the youngest Premier League scorer at that time. Incredible, isn't it?

Later in 2004 he joined Manchester United for £25.6 million and again announced himself in great style with a hat-trick against Fenerbahce in the Champions League. Since then with many ups and downs he has gone on to win 4 Premier League titles, 1 Champions League title(including 3 finals), 1 Club World Cup and 2 League Cups. During this process, he has already made more than 450 club appearances(both Everton and Manchester United) with over 200 goals. He also won 3 'goal of the season award', with the latest one coming in the 2010-11 season when he scored that incredible over-head kick against Manchester City in the Premier League at Old Trafford. Although my favorite Wayne Rooney goal is the volley against Newcastle in April 2005. He also has made 78 appearances for England with 32 goals. Wayne's also been nominated for the 2012 FIFA Ballon D'or making him the only Englishman on the shortlist.

Wayne ranks 5th in the all time top scorers for England and 4th in the list for all time top scorers for Manchester United.

Currently, I think both Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie share a great partnership up top for Manchester United. #Deadly. And his new role of playing deeper in the midfield excites me too. The good thing is that both of these players are interchangeable and that only aids his game. A versatile player and even tracks backs once he loses the ball - not many players are that dedicated. One word to describe Wayne? - ' Warrior'.

Another fact is that both Wayne Rooney's son Kai and Leo Messi's son Thiago share the same birthday - 2nd November. #Legends.

Ballon D'or?

The Ballon D'or literally means 'Golden Ball'. Its inception was in the year 1956. The award was conceived by France Football's chief magazine writer Gabriel Hanot, who asked his colleagues to vote for the player of the year in Europe in 1956. Hence at that time this award was only presented to European players playing for a European club and hence players of Non-European nations were ineligible for this award. This however was changed in the year 1995 when it allowed non-European players to be eligible for the award if they played for a European club. While later in the year 2007 any player in the world became eligible for this award. Another noticeable thing is that the selection is done by football journalists

The first person to win the Ballon D'or was an English footballer Stanley Matthews who played for Blackpool. After the rule change in the year which allowed Non-European players to be eligible, it was a Liberian player George Weah who won the Ballon D'or while playing for AC Milan. Three players have won the award three times each - Johan Cruyff, Michel Platini and Marco van Basten. The last Premier League player to win the FIFA Ballon D'or was Michael Owen

Later in the year 2010, Ballon D'or and FIFA player of the year were merged, and came to be known as the FIFA Ballon D'or. Leo Messi became the inaugural winner and won it again in the following year. The FIFA Ballon D'or for 2012 is scheduled for January 7th, 2013 in Kongresshaus, Zurich (Switzerland)

Like every year, 23 player shortlist is made. The shortlist for the 2012 FIFA Ballon D'or includes -

Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/Argentina), 

Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid/Spain), 

Mario Balotelli (Manchester City/Italy), 

Karim Benzema (Real Madrid/France), 

Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus/Italy),

Sergio Busquets (Barcelona/Spain), 

Iker Casillas (Real Madrid/Spain), 

Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid/Portugal), 

Didier Drogba (Shanghai Shenhua/Ivory Coast), 

Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid/Colombia), 

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Paris St Germain/Sweden), 

Andres Iniesta (Barcelona/Spain), 

Lionel Messi (Barcelona/Argentina), 

Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich/Germany), 

Neymar (Santos/Brazil), 

Mesut Ozil (Real Madrid/Germany), 

Gerard Pique (Barcelona/Spain), 

Andrea Pirlo (Juventus/Italy), 

Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid/Spain), 

Wayne Rooney (Manchester United/England), 

Yaya Toure (Manchester City/Ivory Coast), 

Robin van Persie (Manchester United/Netherlands), 

Xavi (Barcelona/Spain)

Neymar and Drogba are the only players playing for a Non-European club in the shortlist, while Yaya Toure and Didier Drogba the only Africans that make the shortlist. Gianluigi Buffon and Manuel Neuer are the only goalkeepers that make the shortlist. Rooney, the only player representing England, while the same applies to Van Persie win Nederlands
So, what do you make of this?