Russian Money At Work

As the transfer window comes to a close at the end of the month, clubs are busy trying to finalize deals and bring in new players. Harry Redknapp's been busy spending new owner Gaydamak's money. He's brought in Kanu, ex-Hammer Glen Johnson, David Thompson, David James and Sol Campbell. Most folks that follow the game will instantly recognize these names. The problem is I don't see how they do anything but elevate Pompey's payroll. 36 year old David James never really had it. That he's got 34 caps for England is more of a testament to the lack of truly world-class talent England has at that position than what it says about David James. David Thompson is a decent squad player, the same with Kanu. Sol looked last year like he was ready to hang the boots up. I have a hard time seeing him turn things around. Only young Glen Johnson has potential to be a special player this year.

What will be more interesting to see is if Pompey avoid relegation. They were in the mix last year until they turned it around just enough to finish 4 points clear. But that Pompey didn't go down was more of a testament to how West Brom and Birmingham fell apart last year than quality at Pompey. Other players seem able to see the ship is still taking on water as despite having millions to spend they weren't able to sign D'Alessandro, Defoe, Gareth Barry, and Curtis Davies. Heck, Pompey wasn't able to even tempt ex-DC United defender Ryan Nelsen away from Blackburn. And now it looks like Nicolas Anelka prefers Bolton over Portsmouth. Seems like Pompey is a sinking ship with a new twist, it's attracting the rats.

As for the MLS in America, Frank Yallop seems to be living up to his hype. The Los Angeles Galaxy have only lost once in the last 8 games. That was a 1-0 loss to Colorado on the road where they only mustered 4 shots in 90 minutes. It's hard to win when you do that. But otherwise Yallop seems to have them turned around and headed for the playoffs, especially with how listless Chivas seems to be lately.

The college season in America is starting. From College to the Pros - The US soccer ladder talks about it more. If you're interested in player development in the US that blog is an excellent source for information.