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18.12.2009
(Cashman) | The Prodigal Sons Return - Champions League Reaction
Well who would have thought it. The assembled press begging for a story got their wish at the Champions League last 16 draw this morning. In fact they got two stories. The hope was that one of Beckham or Mourinho would be drawn against their former clubs, thus enabling the hacks a ready made story. They must have felt like Christmas had come early when both were drawn against their past employers.
There are many i's to dot and t's to cross before the fixtures are played but for now we can all wait for the return of the two prodigal sons. Though much can change in the intervening months.
Who's to say for example that Beckham will even get into the AC Milan team upon his arrival in Italy? They seem to finally have turned the corner under Leonardo, who has even managed the not insignificant task of getting his Brazilian compatriot Ronaldinho to rekindle his love for the beautiful game. He has recovered some semblance of the form that for two all too fleeting seasons made him the greatest player on the planet. Beckham will do well to nudge him or the likes of Pirlo, Ambrosini, and Seedorf out of the team, at least on a consistent basis. It will be interesting to see where he fits in. And who knows, he may well be injured come match time.
For Inter, well there must have been a collective rolling of the eyes from the clubs hierarchy when the draw was made. This is a competition that continues to be unkind to them. It is the one they want most - they have almost outgrown winning Serie A at this stage. They desperately want to make their mark on the biggest stage of all but again the draw has slapped them in the face. Mourinho was brought in to win the Champions League - last season his team failed him against English opposition, and in all likelihood the same sorry tale awaits Inter this season. Actually, given Mourinho's run in's with journalists and opposing managers, he may well be pleased to see some friendly faces for a change.
One thing is for sure, both United and Chelsea fans will be looking forward to welcoming back two of their heroes, safe in the knowledge that their teams are firm favourites to progress. |
| Date | Comments | |
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21.12.2009
(mike) | I for one can't wait for the return of Beckham. He left Utd soo long ago and it'll be good to see him play against his old club (maybe even score with a trademark free-kick!).
Also, he should get a great reception from the Old Trafford faithful. |
