Tony's Fiver

1 Take on the challenge
Football should learn from Wimbledon’s use of technology. Managers should have “challenges” when they can call for replays to review decisions. It would help to eradicate mistakes and reduce cheating. 

2 Kewell’s split loyalties
Harry Kewell turned down the chance to stay at Liverpool, even though he is apparently a fan. Does that make him an armchair supporter? He was an armchair player, spending more time off the pitch than on it. 

3 Keeping the faith
France staying with Raymond Domenech as coach seems an amazing decision, but attitudes are different from those in England. Authorities are more sensitive to criticism – which makes them want to ignore it. 

4 Striking solution
Peter Crouch to Portsmouth? You just know he would form a brilliant partnership with Jermain Defoe and there would be a clamour for them to play for England. And when they do, you know it would be a disaster. 

5 Build from the base
Arsenal linked with Andrei Arshavin as well as Samir Nasri. Great – entertainment. But how about a keeper, a centre back and ball-winning midfield player? You cannot challenge for the title without them.

Comments

[Bill M]

Lapland,

Oops, sorry - got the wrong bloke.

My reply should have been to Chris.

Chris, over to you.

[Bill M]

Lapland,

I said Tony had taken a cheap shot at Harry Kewell. Nowhere in your reply do you deny it was a cheap shot nor give reasons why it was not a cheap shot.

I exaggerated by saying no one respects journalists. Even so, many would place journalists somewhere between bankers and politicians. As a journalist this should be of no surprise to you, just as I am not surprised by your taking another journalistic cheap shot with your “You might consider applying a little thought to your posts.”

Now, if you would like to give some thought to explaining to me why you think Tony’s remark was not a cheap shot please do so. If not, then I think we’re done here.

[Lapland]

I'm pretty sure Crouch will success at Portsmouth. He's a good EPL player but keep him out of the national team.

[Chris]

Hi Bill M,

As a journalist (who you apparently believe no-one likes, yet you still feel interested enough in what we say to spend your time logging on to a website and read our words.. funny chap) I would remind you that Cascarino is a former (very good) footballer, paid because of what he used to be and any insight he can offer now with the benefit of his experiences, rather than his abilities with a pen now. You may also notice other comments on this story make valid, accurate points as to why Casc was off the mark. You might consider applying a little thought to your posts, too.

[mark(good leap for a short man)]

I honestly beleive that Peter (great feet for a big man but he doesn't jump that high does he?) crouch would be an excellent strike partner for almost anyone. Selfless, hardworking, good football brain, lovely chap. As a liverpool fan i am sad that he didn't get more of a chance to prove himself as the partner that torres would flourish with. Peter we wish you well, 25 goals this season and we'll take you back next summer!

[Bill M]

Kewell -- "He was an armchair player, spending more time off the pitch than on it."

What a cheap shot at a player plagued with injuries.

No wonder no one respects journalists.

[richard dow]

dearie me tony you ruffled some feathers there

[john]

Pompey have played a blinder getting Crouch. Foolish Rafa - another disappointing title challenge next year

[Damian Norman]

News Flash to Mr Cascarino.
Crouch and Defoe already played together for England and did rather well, at least when compared with any partnership involving Wayne Rooney.

Interesting comment about Crouch and Defoe - I wonder what disaster Cascarino believes would ensue if they were to play together for England? Perhaps they would fail to qualify for the next Major Championships, or - heaven forfend - lose to the footballing powerhouse that is Northern Ireland?

Perhaps Cascarino has forgotten that Crouch and Defoe have played together for England in competitive matches. Perhaps he has also forgotten that the games in question were won, with either or both on the scoresheet each time.

I don't suppose that they will be the answer to England's problems, but it is slightly foolish to warn of impending disaster, when that disaster has already taken place - through no fault of Crouch or Defoe.