He's Baaaack!.... Maybe?

Yes, as many of you are wondering, it does seem that Fernando Torres would be back. It was a little sneaky, almost catching everyone, (and probaly himself), by surprise. But as soon as Anelka played that ball in to Torres and "El Nino" finished the only goal Chelsea could muster at Old Trafford, I knew that either it was a lucky play, or the Torres of old was back. The way he reaffrimed is goal-scoring ability was somewhat cheeky, like Napoleon coming back to rule France, and wage war with Britain and Holland in the "100 days war". (Hopefully, for Chelsea at least, Torres' return won't be that short.) Although he is far from paying back the $50 million that Chelsea payed for him, he has brought some compensation. Yes, he did get red carded for a wild challenge, and yes his hair STILL looks like roadkill. But, who's looking?

 On another hand, the Manchester clubs can seem to grasp that DRAWS in the UCL don't win you Europa Trophies. Yesterday, Man U drew 2-2 with FC Basel, while today, Man City LOST (they had it coming) to Bayern 2-0. Bayern is another topic I would like to talk about. They seem to have found their way again, despite having won no silverware last year, which is quite shocking when you think about how they have most of the German national team AND Arjen Robben. Another powerhouse, Inter Milan, who knocked them out of the UCL last year, (granted they then lost to Schalke, who they also lost to in the German cup), have not recovered, losing to newly promoted Novara, and have sacked their manager. Hopefully, a win this past weekend with put them back on track.

Well, that's all for today, and thanks to the 3 of you who read consitently.

Why Old Trafford is Old Trafford

Although the loss to Manchester United is disappointing, it is not demoralizing. To beat Manchester United at Old Trafford is a near impossible feat, so impossible that is has not happened in 18 games. Yes, Torres did miss 3 chances that could have brought on a draw, including an open net, but all is not to be blamed on Torres. Our defense was hardly up to par, and Ramires got in the way of a better positioned Sturridge, who also was not the familiar goal-scorer/creator. Also, on the first 2 goals Man U scored, Nani and Chris Smalling were both clearly offsides in the build up play to the goal. But, on the Nani, a weak challenge from Juan Mata, and Terry coming out to late all added up to overwhelm the missed call. However bad we may have been though, I am actually satisfied with the loss. Torres seems to be coming back, and new signings and young blood all add up for a long period of success to come. Another good thing to enjoy in the coming AVB era is that he has no setbacks by benching Lampard, Drogba and other long time employees. This will allow for width and freedom on the pitch.
I sign off now, and will be back next week.