The Beckham Effect

Being a football (soccer) enthusiast, I have been a fan of David Beckham for many years now.  I remember when I read about his signing with Manchester United (along with Scholes, Giggs and Neville) and when he was loaned to Preston North End.  If nothing else, he has been a model of consistency.

To watch him on TV does no justice to the player.  With Manchester United, his work ethic was second to none and often set the table for his teammates.  As his career evolved with Real Madrid and LA Galaxy, his work ethic never changed although some would argue otherwise.

Now with AC Milan, he is joining a team of superstar named players.  I look forward to this chapter in his career.  He is certainly not the player he once was but he still possesses the work ethic others can only dream to have in their career.

Watch this player as his career is in its twilight but he is far from being done.  Enjoy his play and if today’s youth can continue what he has started and model their games and ethic after Becks, they could do much worse.  He is not the flash of a CR7 or Ronaldinho but his steady play is what every successful team needs.

Premier League

Well, those of you who know me realize I am a die hard Manchester United fan.  I have followed the club for many years (began following them in magazines and papers in the early 1990’s) and have enjoyed their success.

Experiencing tremendous success last season was unbelievable and unforgettable however coming into the season I had my doubts.  Man Utd still has a large amount of debt and we were not spending in the transfer window like many other teams, most notably Chelsea and Liverpool.  As a result, in my opinion, Man Utd would have a difficult road this season… and that is coming true.  Sure, they are certainly strong enough to finish in the top 4 and qualify for the Champions League but do not have the same “mystique” they had last season.  CR7 has been hampered by an injury here and there, Tevez is still trying to get a chance, Rooney and Berbatov are still trying to gel.

They can put a run together but it will take a huge push to become top of the table.

I still wear the club colors proudly and always will.  Finishing in the top 4 is not a bad thing by any reason, but after last seasons double it just isn’t the same.