One of the expected big transfer stories of the summer is that of David Villa from Valencia CF, but as things stand it also appears that it will be one of the most protracted as well, if it does actually come to fruition. The Spanish hot-shot has increasingly become a focus in recent months for Europe's other major clubs, both Real Madrid and Chelsea have been consistently linked in the way that usually invokes an air of inevitability.
With his mouth now stretched beyond the bounds of human imagination, Mick McCarthy, as usual, started well in his new job.
He got Wolves to fifth in 2006/07 before losing in the play-offs to West Brom. The next season he only managed seventh, missing out on sixth courtesy of Watford’s superior goal difference, but the third time did indeed turn out to be lucky for McCarthy.
As part of a new series here on 90minutes we’ll be looking at all of this season’s promoted teams.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have long been overshadowed by their West Midlands rivals Aston Villa, but more recently their bitter Black Country rivals West Bromwich Albion have also taken a greater share of the limelight.
Saddled with an over-paid squad of below-par journeymen, these are times more desperate than usual for Newcastle United. They want shot of their rubbish squad and fast. Thankfully for them the feeling amongst the players is mutual.
Michael Owen took matters into his own hands, hawking his wares in an elaborately conceived brochure, and he was quickly followed by want-away rebel bad-boy Joey Barton. Alan Smith is the latest player to add his name to that list. Exclusive to 90Minutes here is the Alan Smith brochure…
Well, the latest big shake in Western Europe’s forgotten nation involves washed-out Argentinean Javier Saviola showing up at Benfica.
Clearly not enough of a Galactico to satisfy Real’s requirements, Saviola was exchanged for €5m worth of fruit pastilles and a copy of Horse and Hound.
He said: “I looked at the squad at Benifca and, sincerely, it is a group with a lot of quality and potential."