majid

@jertje: AKA the Van Gaal influence, the man is a genius.

@sessh: You're spot-on about the refs. Though this is nothing compared to how bad they were in the 2002 WC.

Casillas' performance is the direct result of keeping him for the cup matches only (which was rightly, and obviously, the perogative of Mou and Ancelloti). VdB is too cozy with his favoured players. Koke needs to start (quicker and more direct than Xavi= better to take advantage of Costa's runs in behind) and they need the physicality of Martinez alongside Busquets to protect the full-backs.

Prediction: Koke will displace Xavi by the quarters

Chelsea and England

Important question: will there be a rousing chorus of 'One Ryan Davis; There's only one Ryan Davis, One Ryan Davis....'?

Best of luck Vinny! I'm going to miss you terribly in the weekly SF content. Man, that new hire(s) will really have to be some personality to fill the gaping hole left by Vinny. Just can't imagine a podcast without Vinny :(

My chat avatar is out-of-date and was changed on the 9th of April.

Jeff Gerstmann in 09: "he has to hurt himself or someone else for me to be interested"

Rorie is a top lad; he's always available in chat and that is greatly appreciated. Congrats Rorie!