Archives for "Keeper News"
Woods sees a place in big league for McGregor
Ex Goalkeeper Chris Woods believes that Allan McGregor has what it takes to prove himself in thePremier League.
The former Rangers keeper knows only too well the feeling of lifting silverware at Ibrox, reckons Greegs would find it hard to turn his back on Walter Smith’s side if the big boys came calling.
Woods has been highly impressed with the shot-stopper’s displays this season as Smith’s side continue to edge closer to a domestic Treble.
He made some vital stops at Rugby Park on Tuesday night, the pick of the bunch a point-blank save from Mehdi Taouil in the first-half, as Rangers increased their lead over Old Firm rivals Celtic thanks to a 2-0 win over Kilmarnock.
Those displays have been credited, along with a rock solid defence, as a key factor behind the Light Blue’s success so far this season.
Woods, now the goalkeeping coach at Everton, certainly likes what he has seen of the Gers No.1.
He said: “I watch Rangers games on TV when I can, and you always see bits and pieces of matches anyway.
“And what I can say is I’ve been impressed with Allan’s performances. He has everything you would really look for in a goalkeeper.
“And when you have someone of his quality playing at the top of their game, then it is a major bonus for any team.
“One of the great things about Allan is he has that ability to pull off big, big saves in matches where he maybe only has one thing to do.
“So that proves his concentration levels are extremely high.
“I can recall my own playing days at Rangers and you’d maybe only be required to make one or two saves during certain matches.
“It can be difficult when you are going long spells without anything to do.
“You have to remain focused and he certainly manages to do just that.
“He is also good at organised his defence and communicating with his team-mates, is sharp in and around the six yard box and he isn’t afraid to come for crosses.
“So he certainly has a lot going for him and I certainly don’t see any reason why he couldn’t play in England or anywhere else for that matter.
“He has played in the Champions League with Rangers so you don’t get any higher a level than that.”
The Englishman, though, can say from first-hand experience that it would take a lot for any player to leave the gates of Ibrox behind.
He said: “Rangers are a massive club and have an opportunity of winning silverware every season.
“And, providing they win the league championship, there is also the possibility of playing in the Champions League.
“The fans are also unbelievable. For some players, they don’t want to give up on that so it is a big decision for anyone to decide to leave.”
Aside from his considerable all-round abilities, Woods also believes that having Neil Alexander as back-up might be a factor in keeping McGregor at the top of his game.
He added: “Some players don’t cope very well with having competition for a jersey and others thrive on it.
“Competition can be good if it brings out the best in players and maybe that is the case with Allan.
“Neil Alexander is an experienced goalkeeper who has also performed well when he has been called upon.
“For a manager, that is a great comfort and I’m sure Walter Smith is delighted to have the two guys to call upon.”
McGregor’s return to the Scotland set-up was delayed after new manager Craig Levein decided to leave him out of his squad after an incident in his private life.
But he is expected to return to the squad for the next match against Sweden and Woods feels that is good news for Scotland.
He said: “You want all your best players available for selection and Allan is obviously one of the best goalkeepers available to Scotland.
“Every player wants to play at the highest level possible and I’m sure Allan would love to represent his country in the future.
“If he keeps performing as well as he is, then I don’t see any reason why he can’t.”
Hennessey Fears Wolves Exit
Wayne Hennessey fears he may have to quit Molineux if he wants to be Wales’ No 1 for the Euro 2012 campaign.
The Wolves goalkeeper is keeping the bench warm for the Premier League strugglers after being axed by boss Mick McCarthy in November.
Anglesey boy Hennessey has been Wales boss John Toshack’s first-choice shot-stopper for three years.
But the 6ft 5in Welshman admits he is in danger of losing his place to Hull hero Boaz Myhill if he remains frozen out at Wolves.
Myhill started the 1-0 friendly defeat against Sweden earlier this month and is favourite to wear the No 1 shirt for the Euro 2012 opener in September.
Hennessey, who has two years left on his Wolves contract, said: “John Toshack isn’t going to pick me because I’m not playing.
“I can understand that. If I was in his position, I would do the same thing. I would pick the goalkeeper who is playing and right now that’s Boaz.
“I’ve got a contract with Wolves until 2012 and I haven’t asked for a transfer. If things are going well then I’d be delighted to stay – but I need to be playing.
“I’ll only get the chance to play for Wales if I’m playing for my club and that’s not happening.”
Hennessey played the second half against Sweden but has not made a Premier League appearance since the 4-0 defeat at Chelsea nearly four months ago.
He added: “The last couple of months have been very tough.
“I’m not getting any action at Wolves. I’m just sitting on the bench all the time.
“I doubt I’ll be Wales No 1 for the next campaign if things don’t change.”
Hennessey turned 23 in January but has already won 24 caps. But he is wondering how many more he will collect after getting the chop at Molineux.
Hennessey began the season as McCarthy’s No 1 and he made his 100th senior outing for the club at Stoke in October.
However, after conceding eight goals in two games, McCarthy replaced him with 37-year-old Marcus Hahnemann. Hennessey said: “I was a bit upset when I found out. I did not have a clue it was going to happen.
“I thought I was doing well. In a couple of games, I thought I had the kept the team in it.
“I did speak to Mick McCarthy about being left out. I didn’t have a go and we haven’t rowed.
“He’s the main man so you’ve just got to take it and get on with things. Whatever he says, you’ve got to take it.
“Marcus has got a lot of experience and he’s talked a lot to me since he came to Wolves last summer.
“I’m still young so he’s been a big help. We get on really well.
“You’re going to get ups and downs in your career and this season is a down for me.
“It’s a case of having to work hard and do well in training.
“If the gaffer gives me a chance to shine then I’ve got to show him I’m good enough to stay in the team.
“It’s been a hard few months but hopefully I can get back on the ladder.”
Villa line up United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak
Reports in this mornings paper sudggest that Aston Villa are weighing up a move for Manchester United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak.
The Tall Pole wants more games and it’s today been report in the Sport Mail that Villa want competition for 39- year-old Brad Friedel.
The 27-year-old stopper has made less than 30 Premier League appearances for United since joining in the summer of 2006.
‘I have waited for four years and I enjoy my time here, but maybe I need to change it.’
Tomas kuszczak wears Adidas Goalkeeper Gloves
Hart targets NO 1 spot
Joe Hart has been chatting about his England chances in the build up to this week Friendly game against Egypt.
The Manchester City Goalkeeper who is on loan at Birmingham has told the Daily Express he has every intention of becoming England’s No.1 and is determined to make this summer’s World Cup squad.
The 23-year-old keeper has just one cap to his name at present, having been given an opportunity to impress during a friendly fixture with Trinidad & Tobago in June 2008.
He has been in and out of the fold since then, unable to cement himself in Fabio Capello’s long-term plans.
While out on loan this season at Birmingham Hart has put in some eye-catching displays throughout the campaign.
“I’m not England’s No.1 goalkeeper, but that’s the target,” Hart said in the Daily Express.
“Whatever comes with it I can cope. If I couldn’t, I wouldn’t be talking about it.
“I’m not saying I’ve had people against me, but my age does go against me some times.
“Stuff you do goes against you – you’ve just got to look at Jamo [David James]. He’s had everything thrown at him, I don’t think he can have any more thrown at him.
“But it doesn’t faze the guy. He’s been absolutely brilliant. That’s the kind of person you’ve got to look at.”
“Just to be involved with England, means the world to me, but the World Cup is something different,” he added.
“Being in the normal squad, seeing how these superstars do it – and they are superstars, great players – just to see how they go about things, how people prepare themselves really does help.
“Being at the World Cup and not playing, like Theo Walcott last time, that wouldn’t be a disappointment for me. To be picked in that elite 23 would mean everything.
“I’ll work every day to be involved in it. If I’m not picked I can look back at my season and think I gave everything, no regrets.”
Tonight’s big game – Inter Milan v Chelsea
Two of the best goalkeepers in the world go head to head tonight.
It is just over two years since Inter Milan manager Jose Mourinho left Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge, but many of his former players are still wearing the blue of Chelsea, adding extra spice to what promises to be a finely balanced European tie. Inter are comfortable league leaders in Italy, but their fans crave more European glory. Steve Rider presents live from the San Siro, with analysis from Marcel Desailly and Andy Townsend and commentary by Clive Tyldesley and Jim Beglin.
Reusch Magno Deluxe M1 Mega Grip Adidas Cech Response Pro Negative
Whats new in store this week @ great-save.com
Reusch Magno M1 Bundesliga £49.99 2 pair offer £85.00
This is an outstanding new release from German brand Reusch. The Magno M1 Bundesliga is one of the most exciting new releases we have had in store so far in 2010.
Featurings a Negative Cut which has become very popular with goalkeepers at all standards. The cut is simular to a Flat-palm cut in that the palm is made of a single piece of latex.. This style of cut also has gussets between the palm and the backhand. The difference is that the stitching that attaches the latex palm to the gussets is done so that the seam is on the interior of the glove. As a result of this glove style fits snugger than a traditional flat palm, many consider it offer better ‘feel’ when catching and throwing. It fingers are not prone to twisting which results in better latex to ball contact when catching.
Negative cut is being worn more and more with a host of keepers in the Premier League, Serie A, Liga wearing the cut.
Kaliaaer XGM Pro gs Edition (white aqua blue) EXCLUSIVE £39.99
A stunning new EXCLUSIVE release from Kaliaaer
The Kaliaaer XGM Pro gs Edition (white aqua blue) has been made in limited numbers for great-save.com only. This Exclusive new style has been put together with the Kailaaier product development team and great-save.com glove expert Martin Sanders
Kaliaaer one of the most exciting new brands around. Kaliaaer was launched in Autumn 2008, Kaliaaer goalkeeper gloves have already been featured in a Wembley cup final, and are now been chosen by a growing number of professional goalkeepers around the world.
This is a new glove for 2009/10, featuring a 4mm V2 all weather latex as well and a hi>dri bacterial mech inside the glove.
Nike T90 III Thong £14.99
This men’s thong style flip flop from Nike features smooth leatherette straps with a printed T90 and swoosh logo. With a soft textile lining for ultimate comfort.
The outsole features slats which offer comfort and ventilation.
P.S.T Shin Guard Retainer Tape £3.99 per roll
Premier Sock Tape ‘Shin Guard Retainer Tape’ has been developed over the past two seasons as a replacement for the very restrictive zinc oxide tapes that have been used in the past to secure the socks below the shin pads. It has a 38mm width and easy tear construction for player convenience.
The SGR tape is made from a special material that stretches when warm, this heat stretch property makes the SGR tape more comfortable to wear and more close fitting around the shin.
Premier Sock Tape SGR Tape is now worn and trusted by many Premier League Teams and players alike. If the tape is white and shinny you can bet that it is PST SGR Tape!
Reusch Magno SG Air £24.99
Palm: SG (Soft Grip) – Excellent latex foam offering reliable grip and cushioning qualities.
Glove Cut: Expanse Cut ESS – The Expanse Cut where the seams lie outside to enlarge the inner surface of the hand and create the maximum area for contact with the ball.
The ESS (Ergonomic Support System) offers an anatomically correct fit, meaning the gloves are very comfortable to wear.
Wrist Closure: Elasticated Wrist bandage for a comfortable fit and added support also offering a Full Wrist Strap.
Backhand: Latex all over offering comfort and flexibility.
Edwin to sign new deal
Manchester United ’s veteran Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has confirmed that he has decided to sign a new contract to extend his playing career into his 40s.
The tall Dutch goalkeeper’s current deal expires at the end of this season and he has been offered a 12-month extension by Sir Alex.
Van der Sar has been mulling over his future at Old Trafford following suggestions he would head into retirement in the summer.
In today’s News of the World, he said: “I would like to keep on playing so I have decided to sign another contract.
“The club want me to stay and I’m happy here. My fitness is good and I feel I can carry on playing for United.”
“It’s been a hard time for all the family and when something like this happens it’s a tough situation,” he said.
“Luckily I was back in Holland when it happened because I was injured and it meant that I could be with her in hospital.
“It’s been a difficult period, but I’m happy things are improving at home.”
The Gloves Are Off
David Seaman told Goals on Sunday that the Football Association must try to combat the dearth of young English goalkeepers coming up through the ranks.
None of the top four goalkeepers at Arsenal – Manuel Almunia, £ukasz Fabiañski, Vito Mannone and Wojciech Szczêsny – are English, a state of affairs reflected to varying degrees in the Premier League.
“It worries me for the England No 1 spot,” admitted the 46-year-old, who won 75 caps for England and played in the 1998 and 2002 World Cups.
“Look at how many English goalkeepers are playing (in the Premier League). The other worrying thing is you look at how many No 2s are foreign as well so it’s not going to be good for the future.
“I think something should be done (to bring on English talent). Maybe a specialised goalkeeping school through the FA; we’ve got the coaches, we just need to put something in place so we can really lift it.
“Tony Roberts is working on something along those lines at Arsenal to try and get more goalkeepers into the game.
“What’s happening with the kids is that a lot of them are coming up to me and saying ‘I’m a goalkeeper but I want to be a striker as well’.
Arsenal are currently just six points behind Chelsea in the Premier League title race and Almunia, 32, believes the Gunners are capable of mounting a strong title challenge in the second half of the season.
It’s a view echoed by Seaman himself, who revealed that the Spanish goalkeeper increasingly feels at home between the Arsenal sticks.
“I’ve coached him (Almunia) a little bit,” said Seaman. “He’s realised that he is no 1 now. He’s had a little lack of confidence. He and (Jens) Lehmann weren’t the best of friends.
“He was in sometimes, sometimes he was left on the bench when he thought he should have been playing.
“Now he has become the No 1 he is slowly realising that and when you see him on the training ground he has got a bit of an aura about him. For me he’s doing ok.
“He’s got three top-quality international goalkeepers above him in Spain, so he’s not getting international experience but the experience he is getting at Arsenal is invaluable.”
Seaman, making his debut on Goals on Sunday, paid tribute to the impact Bob Wilson had on his career and went on to explain how he is trying to pass on some of the lessons he learnt from the former Scottish international.
“Bob was great because he would build your confidence up in training, which doesn’t always happen,” said Seaman, who made a total of 564 appearances for Arsenal.
“He’d do certain drills where if you made two or three ‘worldly’ saves he’d say ‘you’re done’ so you’d finish that session on a real high and full of confidence. That was his secret.
“I go down to Arsenal once or twice a week and I coach the young goalkeepers there along with Tony Roberts. We try to give them confidence in training because they are not always playing. Two or three of them probably play about 10 games a season which is just weird.
“You’ve got to be single-minded as a goalkeeper because you can play great all game and then make one mistake but you’ve got to deal with that mistake.
“If you make that mistake in the first five minutes of the game are you going to let that affect you? The mental side of it is massive.
“It’s only experience that gets you used to it. That’s how you learn. For young goalkeepers it’s a really hard thing for them to learn.”
Joe’s Hart is with Birmingham if they reach FA Cup final
From todays Sports Mail: www.dailymail.co.uk
Joe Hart could miss out on an FA Cup final appearance but is in no doubt where his allegiance lies if Birmingham meet Manchester City in the Wembley showpiece.
The goalkeeper, who is on a season-long loan at Birmingham from Eastlands, could miss the final after the sides were kept apart in Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final draw.
And he accepts it will be Maik Taylor and not himself who will be between the posts should the Blues reach the final and meet his parent club.
The 22-year-old said: ‘All the lads have given banter about it but my personal feeling is I knew the script at the start of the season.
‘It was all agreed at the start of the season. Which team would I go down to the final with? Birmingham City, of course. That’s the team I am with this year so I’d be 100% behind them.’
Birmingham travel to Portsmouth in the last eight while Manchester City will visit Chelsea if they win their replay against Stoke.
Birmingham manager Alex McLeish revealed he has been in talks with City about buying Hart permanently but if was unsuccessful would take him on loan for another season.
He added: ‘If I can’t get Hart permanently, would I settle for another loan season? Yes
Petr looks to the future
Chelsea’s stopper Petr Cech hopes to be able to play for the next 10 years if he can continue his current form and fitness.
27-year-old had a number of errors that cost Carlo Ancelotti’s side, particularly at set-pieces early on this season.
Cech’s form appeared to snowball into a confidence crisis, but he seems to have conquered any anxiety and has since been in far better form.
When asked about spending the next decade in London by Chelsea Magazine Cech went on to say: “If I stay fit, at least as I am now, then I’ll play as long as I can because this career is normally pretty short and everyone wants to make the most of it.
“It all depends on how fit you stay and how well you play because suddenly you’re not as fast and your reaction is not the same.
“You can compensate it with a bit of experience, but there always comes a point when you know it’s not going to be the same, so it depends how long this is going to take.”
“Always the Champions League is our aim and you can see that we’ve been playing for it every season and we’ve gone far, but the aim is the same.
“The Champions League is the only trophy this club is missing so I think that is what everyone would like to win.”
He added: “For the fans, for the players and for everyone linked with the club, I think it is going to be a special occasion (against Inter).
“I said before the draw, right before Christmas, that if the English and Italian media wanted a gift from Santa Claus it would be Chelsea versus Inter or Man United against AC Milan
and, in the end, it did happen, which is perfect.”
Petr Cech has a special glove made by Adidas the Adidas Cech Response Pro Negative (white red navy) is now in store at great-save.com
