FootballFilter

Hello and welcome to my latest look at what has been passing through the Football Filter this week.

Where else to start but Middle Eastlands, where Mark Hughes and his billions are beginning to irk those around them, especially the ‘big four’ whose usual comfy position in the Champions League spots are now under real threat.

The latest player on Hughes’ golden shopping list is Chelsea captain John Terry, who has been very publicly sounded out by City in a £30 million move. However a story in THE TIMES carries quotes from none other than David Beckham, who has warned Terry off making a move up north, especially in a World Cup Year.

Speaking of David Beckham, the former England captain has faced a media storm in the U.S. this week upon his return to L.A. Galaxy following a loan spell at AC Milan. He was warned to expect a frosty reception and those warnings rang true as the jeers rang round the Giants Stadium every time he touched the ball. THE GUARDIAN asks whether it is time for Becks to return home in order to maintain his place in the England squad.

Like your retro football? Well, a blog on SOCCERLENS looks back at the 1994 World Cup and that legendary Bulgarian team, Stoickhkov etc al, who took on the World and very nearly won.

Fancy yourself as a talent scout? Know all those great young players on Football Manager? Well you will enjoy the blog on THE OFFSDIE ITALY that looks at 30 promising Italian players to keep an eye on.

Tired of the all round year nature of modern football? Well you may share the gripes of Josh Widdicombe at WHEN SATURDAY COMES who has become tired with the football hype machine.

And finally…

THE INDEPENDENT reports on the critical condition of former Wales striker John Hartson, who is undergoing treatment for cancer. Though I lay no claim to know Hartson or that he even used to play for the team I support, it is always sad when you see someone so ill who just a few years ago was tearing around the football pitch as a professional athlete. We wish him all the best in his recovery.