Official witchunt for Sir Alex? The Best of FootballFanCast.com

Let us begin with the big news this week of Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and his rant at official Alan Wiley following the game with Sunderland on Saturday. Condemnation for Fergie has come in the length and breadth of the country, from Anfield to Stamford Bridge but FFC columnist Ray Howells has a different take, lambasting Wiley and other officials stating;

“What I find disappointing about this whole referees’ fraternity is that they are all pointing the finger at a man who simply exposed their blatant inconsistencies

“Nothing has been mentioned about the missing added time on Wiley’s clock, which in truth was the reason for Sir Alex’s frustrations.”

This weekend’s clash between Ukraine v England, although meaningless in terms of qualification for England, has provoked great debate due to the fact that it will be shown on the internet only, but for a price. Betfair and FFC blogger Phil Tomlinson explained this week why streaming games live from the web may be the future of live football coverage;

“Currently a collective Premier League deal between Sky, ESPN and the BBC is worth £1.62bn over three years, but that could well be dwarfed by the kind on money that could be available via the internet.

“The champions Manchester United received £38.6million from domestic television revenue last season, but that figure would be eclipsed by any internet deal.”

Last weekend’s clash at Stamford Bridge also produced a huge response in the media and while many critics were writing off Liverpool’s title ambitions following their 2-0 defeat to Chelsea, FFC columnist Odie Stanley-Ikhilioju took an alternative view, believing that it is a little early to write off the Anfield sides title credentials just yet.;

“An even better way to look at it? We’re currently on 15 points from 8 games. Guess who was also on 15 points after 8 games last year?

“You probably guessed it right: 2008/2009 Barclays Premier League Champions Manchester United.”

Finally, this was a post that made me and a lot of Arsenal fans think. FFC columnist Roy Thompson made a plaintive case for impressive Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen to be played in a different position, stating;

“Another wonder strike yesterday, to add to the one he scored against Wigan, leaves me wondering whether the Belgium ace is in fact being wasted in defence and whether a more central role in midfield would best suit him.

“Vermaelen just seems to have far too much quality with the ball at his feet and his finishing prowess, to be confined to the backline.”

Interesting points all, so remember to check into FootballFancast.com and TheTransferTavern.com for all your latest football news, with a twist, on a daily basis and join in with your opinions. We want to hear from you!