Hello! So I’m currently doing a study which involves analysing the past records of outright winner odds published by various bookmakers for the past twenty years of the English Premier League. I’m looking for the odds for each team to win the championship title. The further back I go (around 2014 and backwards), I find it harder and harder to find the records for these odds. Does anyone know of any websites where I can find these records for the past 20 years? Thanks in advance!!
WALL OF TEXT WARNING (This is a story about a crazy September I had in my 100% fictional league I run, I posted a breakdown of it here https://www.reddit.com/OOTP/comments/epj53i/a_breakdown_of_my_new_100_fictional_world_ootp/. I also have a S+ page ( https://statsplus.net/tj ) On August 28th, the Petersburg Admirals walked off an upstart Royal Monsonia squad 7-6 in 11 innings, courtesy of a Dan Tauzin walk off home run. The feeling in the club house was ecstatic. With the win, the Admirals went to 26-9, a fantastic record which gave them a 2 game lead in the International Baseball League with 3 games to play. 3 days before the Royal Monsonia walkoff, Petersburg beat Everquest 4-3 in 10 innings, winning both matchups between the two squads and securing the tiebreaker. With 3 games to play Petersburg was 2 games up on the 24-11 Miners, a lead that was really 3 games due to the Admirals sweep. The magic number was 1, and although things were not locked up yet, a second Admirals pennant was all but assured. Petersburg needed one win, or an Everquest loss, to win the pennant, their second. Petersburg won their first in a crazy pennant tiebreaker game that came down to extras due to a Bill Buckner esq error (I may go into this game later because it was absolutely insane). The Admirals had lost their star starter Joel Lopez to a torn UCL early in the season, but the team rallied around the new starter and started to run off wins. By September they were in complete control headed to Sandstone Stadium to face off against the Dupree House Whites. Dupree House was no slouch of a team at 20-15, but Petersburg had beat them earlier in the year at home by 1. The game was a pitchers duel with the Admirals jumping out to a 1-0 lead in the 5th. The Whites countered with a 2 run jack in the 7th. Petersburg responded via a Jean-Claud Barbe single in the 8th to tie the score at 2-2. The championship was in sight. Meanwhile the Everquest Miners were fighting for their lives at home against the lowly Tylertown Knights. A rough 2nd inning put the Knights up 4-2, but the Miners battled back via a big 5th inning to take the lead, and took it home for an 8-5 win. Petersburg would have to lock up the pennant on its own. Back in Cornerstone, the Whites took the lead off a Ken Schaffer RBI double in the 8th inning. Petersburg was shut down in the bottom of the 9th, and the lead went from 2 games, to 1. The clubhouse, as well as the Petersburg fan-base, was not worried though. Some were even happy the Admirals didn't win the pennant on the road as they wanted the home crowd to witness the occasion. Those folks would get their wish 2 days later on September 4th as the Admirals prepared to host the Royal Tylertown Kings. The pennant was in the building, the consensus was that tonight was the night. The Kings were 18-18 and mostly playing for pride at this point. They had won the Champions Cup over Deseret in August, but was out of contention for the pennant. A surprising change for this game was a change at Starting Pitcher, as Rick Morales took over for old starter Jean Larcher, who had been struggling. The fans were iffy about the move, but they were outright hostile after Morales gave up 3 in the 2nd and 2 in the 5th. Petersburg never found their footing, as Royal Tylertown won 5-3 behind a fantastic outing by Harvey Macaskie. Things were getting real now, but many were not worrying. A watch party stayed behind at Petersburg City Park to watch the Everquest Miners play the Fort Snowhawk Archers on the road. The champagne was still ready. The City Park crowd erupted as the Archers took a 2-1 lead in the 5th off a Dermott Searle home run. The Archers knuckleball hero Billy Booth had the Miners hitters off balance all day on the way to a sterling 8 inning, 5 hit performance. Chants of "Lets go Archers" were ringing out at City Park, a rare sight given the huge rivalry between the two cities. The pennant was 3 outs away. There's a reason why "being in control of your own destiny" is important, and this is why. A single by Miners star Joe Scott and a double by 1B Jake Bodrie put the winning run on 2nd with 1 out. Archers CL Mike Miller battled back to K the next hitter, but walked OF Bryan Tompson to load the bases for starter catcher Mike Reed. Bases loaded, 2 outs, season on the line. These are the kind of moments you practice in your backyard as a kid. Well Mike Reed practiced a lot, because the first pitch from Miller was a hanging curveball that Reed shot through the 1B/2B gap at 103 MPH. 2 runs scored and Everquest was in the lead 3-2. The sails emptied out of Petersburg City Park as "Lets go Archers" chants were replaced by the more common "Fuck the Archers". Danny Collazo shut the door in the 9th for Everquest with an 8 pitch inning. For the first time in 3 years, the pennant was to be decided on the final day. The Miners were just happy to be here. Mike Reed was already a legend. Unfortunately for them, they were going up against the undisputed GOAT SP in the last game of the year. The Tom Brady of IBL pitchers, the Michael Jordan of the Peoples Republic of Poisson, Geoff Whelan). Whelan had lead his Port-au-Poisson Democrats to a Champions Cup AND Pennant championship last season, becoming the first team to ever win the double. He was the only pitcher with 2 Gold Ball awards. He had more than half the WAR for the entire team that season. This year he was hurt and the Democrats were not as good as they have been, but they were still formidable at 20-17 going into the final game. On the hill for the Miners was former Gold Ball winner Benjamin Henry. Multiple injuries had lowered him from his peak in 2000, when he struck out of 200 batters in 38 starts, but he was still good, a game manager so to speak and a game manager is all Everquest needed. On the other side of things, the Petersburg Admirals were on the road, also in the Kingdom of Monsonia, against the Miners heated rival, the Streetland Senators. The Miners and Senators played in what is called the "Peasant War" two times every year, these teams hated each other. So much so the Senators fans wanted to intentionally lose the game to starve the Miners of a pennant. That wasn't necessary as Streetland could lose the game all on its own. The Senators were 15-23 and in 16th out of 20 teams. They were lead by former 1st overall pick Sean Bryan, a stud, but the only stud on the team. Going into the final day, most experts still rode with Petersburg. They were on the road, but playing an opponent they clobbered earlier in the year, an opponent that only was playing for draft position. Everquest on the other hand was a playing a very motivated team that was 1 game out of a top 6 finish and another automatic Premier League qualification, led by the baddest man in IBL history. Up to the minute the game ended, sports books had 70% odds on an Admirals championship. On September 8th, 2004, 2 of the biggest games in IBL history kicked off. Port-au-Poisson @ Everquest and Petersburg @ Streetland. Despite the awful start against Royal Tylertown, Rick Morales got the nod against against Senators starter Sean Haworth. The fans did not give Rick the benefit of the doubt anymore after the Senators took a 1-0 lead off a single in the bottom of the 1st. Port-au-Poisson helped the Admiral cause in the top of the 2nd on an RBI fielders choice. Remember, the Admirals didnt have to win, Everquest just needed to lose. Morales, and Petersburg as a whole, started to collapse in the 3rd. The first 4 batters were a single, double, walk, wild pitch and an E1 on Rick Morales. 3 runs scored and Streetland led 4-0. Everything that could go wrong, had gone wrong for the Admirals. Petersburg answered in the 4th with an RBI single to make it a 4-1 game. Meanwhile in Everquest, Geoff Whelan was doing what he did best and had the Democrats in front 1-0 after 5 innings. In the bottom of the 5th back in Streetland, Rick Morales served up a 2-2 fastball to Streetland superstar Sean Bryan. Bryan hit it 440+ feet into the center field seats a home run that would come to be known as the "Bryan Bomb". It was 6-1 Streetland. Cheers erupted at White Forest Bridge every time the home crowd was alerted to another Senators run, but the crowd was nervous. They still needed to win. In the bottom of the 6th, the Miners broke through. LF Sal Gonzalez doubled off Whelan, scoring Bryan Thompson and getting the Miners on the board. A sac fly later scored Gonzalez. 2-1 Everquest. At this point, the Admirals had totally collapsed. The news of the Miners lead tore through the clubhouse. Morales was pulled after the Bryan bomb, as the Senators continued to pour it on. In the bottom of the 7th Bryan knocked in another 2 runs off a single, taking the score to 8-1. Petersburg was not just getting beat, they were getting ripped apart. The Everquest Miners rode the momentum with a 2 run 7th inning to knock out Whelan. Mike Reed doubled in a run as did outfielder Bill Melburg to make it a 4-1 game. The Democrats scored a run off back to back errors in the 8th, but Danny Collazo mopped it up to keep the score at 4-2 going into the 9th inning. In the 9th, Collazo got 1 out before Stephen Hunt was tasked with closing out the season. With a 1-2 count to Port-au-Poisson's Harold Smart, Hunt fired in a fastball that Smart just watched. Game Over. 4-2 Everquest. The mood was electric at White Forest Bridge following the last out, but the players refused to celebrate. Immediately the Petersburg @ Streetland game appeared on the jumbo-tron. There were 2 outs left in the 9th. Streetland reliever Manual Jacobo) was in to finish the job. Admirals catcher Victor Pinedo went down swinging to the joy of the 40,000 fans stuffed into White Forest Bridge. Jean-Claud Barbe was the last chance for Petersburg, and he kept the dream alive for a little while longer, singling. CF Fabrice Pilot then grounded a fastball to the Streetland 3B Thibaut Schmitt, who flipped it to 2nd to retire Barbe. There was no celebration by the Senators players, they knew what they had done. Barbe just sat at 2nd base for hours after the game. Petersburg manager Tim Almazon knew didnt even address his team afterwords. In Everquest, the crowd ran on the field. The Miners had won the pennant, their first major trophy, in the most unlikeliest of ways. Before the games on September 1st, StatsPlus gave Petersburg a 97% chance of winning the championship. Everquest ended the season at 27-11, 1 game up on Petersburg who finished at 26-12. There were multiple things that resulted in this triumph (or apocalypse). The move to go with Rick Morales, a young rookie SP over the veteran Jean Larcher is still debated in Petersburg circles. Even then, if Admirals reliever Chris Muffley doesn't blow the game against Dupree House, the Admirals win the pennant. If Fort Snowhawk's Mike Miller gets by Mike Reed, the Admirals win the pennant. But sometimes fate works against you, and from September 1st to September 8th in 2004, God was an Everquest Miners fan. (I hope you liked it! Hopefully the formatting turned out okay. Let me know if anybody has any questions!)
Pre-Match Thread: Arsenal vs. FC Koln - Europa League
Arsenal vs FC Koln Competition: Europa League Kick-off: 8:05pm, Thursday, September 14th. Location: Emirates Stadium Team news: Arsene Wenger will rest a host of first-team players when Arsenal begin their Europa League campaign at home to FC Koln, but Alexis Sanchez and Jack Wilshere may feature. Petr Cech, Laurent Koscielny, Aaron Ramsey, Mesut Ozil, Granit Xhaka, Danny Welbeck and Alexandre Lacazette have all been left out of the squad Wenger says the best way of returning to the Champions League next year is via a top-four Premier League finish. "We did that for 20 years," he said. "We got 75 points last year and overall, I am humble enough to be happy to win every competition," added the Frenchman. "I think the best way to do it is through the Premier League." Wenger has included Chile forward Sanchez in his squad for Thursday's game. The 28-year-old - Arsenal's top scorer last season with 30 goals in all competitions - was close to joining Manchester City this summer before the Gunners pulled out of a £60m deal. Opta stats:
This is the seventh consecutive season Arsenal have faced German opposition in Europe - they've faced Bayern Munich in four of those (2012/13, 2013/14, 2015/16 and 2016/17), Borussia Dortmund in three (2011/12, 2013/14 and 2014/15) and Schalke once (2012/13).
Arsenal and Cologne faced each other in the 1970/71 Fairs Cup, with the Gunners losing on aggregate on away goals. Arsenal won the home leg 2-1 at Highbury with goals from Frank McLintock and Peter Storey.
This is Arsenal's first European match not played in the Champions League since the 2000 UEFA Cup final, which they lost 4-1 on penalties to Galatasaray after a 0-0 draw.
Cologne's last European match against English opposition came in September 1995 - they routed Spurs 8-0 in an Intertoto Cup match.
In European competition proper, Cologne's last win over English opponents was in December 1976, beating a QPR side featuring Frank McLintock in the UEFA Cup.
The Gunners haven't lost a home game on a Thursday since Boxing Day 1974, losing 2-1 to Chelsea at Highbury - they've won eight and drawn three since.
Including qualifiers, Cologne will be the 64th different team Wenger has faced in European competition as Arsenal manager - he has registered at least one win over 56 of the previous 63 (89 per cent).
Lacazette has been involved in 10 goals in his last 10 starts in the Europa League (eight goals, two assists).
Of players to have featured in the Europa League for at least 600 minutes since 2009/10, Mesut Ozil has the best minutes per assist ratio, averaging an assist every 110 minutes. Ozil featured in the 2009/10 Europa League, assisting six goals in eight matches for Werder Bremen.
In three of Arsenal's last four European competition campaigns outside of the Champions League, the Gunners have reached the final - 1994 and 1995 Cup Winners' Cups and 2000 UEFA Cup final.
Betting: Arsenal are just 4/9 with Sky Bet to make a winning start to their Europa League campaign, with Cologne up against odds of 11/2, while the draw is priced at 7/2. The Gunners are joint outright favourites at 7/1 alongside AC Milan, while their German opponents are given a 33/1 chance. Lacazette and Olivier Giroud head the first goalscorer betting at 11/4 apiece, while Artjoms Rudnevs is considered the visitors' main threat at 10/1 to open the scoring.
2018 Premier Development League Playoffs - Western Conference Semifinal Let's celebrate the Rapids squad that can actually win games! (knock on wood) The Rapids U23s finished the regular season 8-2-4, while their opponents tonight finished on 11-1-2. Rapids are seeded 3rd in the Western Conference Playoffs (earning their spot outright by winning the Mountain Division title) and Calgary is seeded 2nd (won the Northwest Division). The playoffs are one-and-done. No second legs. The winner plays tomorrow(!)
------ Resources PDL Matchcenter PDL Master Bracket | Western Conference Bracket Colorado Rapids U-23 Roster | Calgary Foothills F.C. Roster Previews/Coverage 2018 Western Conference Championship Preview - PDL Colorado Rapids U23 Recap July 17, 2018 - Colorado Rapids Rapids U23s prepare for first real test against Calgary Foothills in PDL Playoffs - Rapids Republic Calgary Foothills FC wrap up regular season with victory over Sounders U23 – head to conference playoffs - Total Soccer Project ----- TV/Streams Colorado Rapids Website PDL Website Direct ----- Lineups Rapids U23: Gavigan / Fagotti / Wilson / Orozco / Bushey / Reza / Cavey / Mushagalusa / Haist / Hundley / ?? [Thanks, Taylor!] Foothills F.C.: Just a picture ----- Match Events 1: We're underway in Cali. 13: Foothills have had the most chances/possession in the final third so far, but nothing that Colorado can't handle. 15: Nervy few moments as a Colorado defender spills it in the box. Teammate had to come to his rescue and Colorado clears. 18: Gavigan makes a HUGE save for the Rapids. 20: 20 minutes in and it's been all Foothills so far. Rapids can't seem to hold possession. 21: Gavigan makes another fantastic save 22: GAVIGAN IS ON FIRE. Another save for the FCGU keeper 23: Water break. Colorado is lucky not to be trailing. 27: Calgary's counter fizzles as the chance taken only results in a slow roller towards Gavigan who makes another save. 34: first shot in ages for Colorado is blocked and easily dealt with by the Foothills keeper. 35: Colorado sends one over the bar. 37: game has slowed down to an extent, Rapids looking a lot more comfortable now. 40: Gavigan makes two more saves, one from a chance coming from a corner and the other from the ensuing play. 45: into added time, can't be long before the break. 45+1: Huge chance for Colorado, can't tell if it hit the post or went wide but either way a chance goes begging. 45+2: set piece chance for Calgary is cleared by Colorado from inside the six and goes out for a corner. On the ensuing corner Calgary is fouled at the top of the box . 45+3: Free kick goes into the wall and the whistle blows for half time. HT 0-0 46: Second half underway at Whittier. Gavigan looks to hold his clean sheet as the Rapids midfield needs to get better at chance creation. Let's see how it goes. 47: Calgary immediately on the attack at the start, winning a corner. Comes to nothing. 52: A couple of knocks have slowed down the second half. Colorado much more composed now. 53: sub comes on for a Calgary injured player. Unfortunately I can't make out the name from the PAs announcement. 54: Yellow card issued to Rapids no. 29 for a bad tackle. 56: Colorado playing patiently but can't seem to find that incisive ball in Calgary's half. 58: Colorado just soaking up pressure from Calgary. The rapids just seem to want to do their defending in the final third. 61: no huge chances so far in the second half. 62: Free kick opportunity at the top of the Rapids box for Calgary. 63: Free kick misses the wall this time but goes wide of the frame. 64: Colorado wins a corner but it comes to nothing. 65: The Rapids defense clears a rifle from the middle of the box that was surely going in had they not been there to clear the lines. 66: Gavigan clears it over the bar. Nervy moments from a corner for Calgary results in a chance that has to be saved by FGCU keeper. 69: water break. Second half has been better than the first for Colorado, but you can't deny that Calgary have had a better time so far. 73: A Colorado counter leads to a chance inside Calgarys box. The shot goes over the bar. 75: rapids whip a cross into a crowded box and have another chance on goal... Goes over the bar again. 78: Colorado puts one on frame but it's easily dealt with by Calgary's keeper 79: Colorado makes a sub, but with this PA it's anyone's guess as to who it is. 82: Game has slowed down again. Fatigue starting to set in for both teams. 86: Goal 1-0 to Foothills. Calgary slots it in the bottom corner past Gavigan's outstretched arms. Lazy marking in the box allows them to get a shot off and Colorado trail with hardly any time left. 88: Urgency from the burgundy boys as they win a throw close to Calgary's corner straight from kickoff. 89: some delay for an injury and sub but the throwin comes to nothing 90: Into added time as the Rapids have a corner. Cleared away by Calgary. 90+3: Deep into stoppage time the Rapids are playing out the back? Odd choice. 90+4: A surprising lack of urgency from the Rapids as they can't seem to get anything going. 90+5: Free kick won by the Rapids at the top of Calgary's box. This is the chance. Nothing comes of it. FT 1-0
Sky sources understand Rangers have rejected West Brom's £3m bid for James Tavernier and will not consider selling until their valuation of the full-back has been met. 17:54
Morecambe survived relegation to the National League by the skin of their teeth last season and have beefed up their forward line in a bid to avoid a repeat performance this season. https://twitter.com/ShrimpsOfficial/status/1027235878429773824 17:41
SCHOLES: UNITED NOT CONTENDERS
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes does not believe his former club have the quality to challenge Manchester City or Liverpool in the Premier League this season. "When you look at Manchester City, possibly Liverpool, I don't think they [United] have the quality of those two teams at the minute. Liverpool have made some really good signings. United finished above them last season," said Scholes, speaking in Hong Kong. "I just don't see United getting closer to City. City are a really good side, great manager, some great players, a way of playing that they all know about and Manchester United seem to be not too sure what's going on. "You don't really know the team, you don't really know the players, you don't know how they're going to perform from one week to the next. So I hope I'm wrong, but I don't see them challenging for the league this year." 17:23
WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE
The Transfer Centre rounds up of all the latest summer transfer stories from Sky Sports News. 17:13
LOAN DEAL
Hartlepool goalkeeper Ryan Catterick has joined Guisborough Town on a short-term loan deal. 17:13
New Southampton goalkeeper Angus Gunn says working with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City played a big part in his development. 17:07
NEWCASTLE UPDATE…
Here’s the latest from Sky Sports News’ Richard Graves… “It’s certainly never dull is it around Newcastle United, especially in the transfer window. You feel they are probably still in the market for another striker, despite bringing in Salomon Rondon on a season-long loan. They also need to strengthen in defence. Federico Fernandez, the Swansea City defender is certainly one name that has been linked with Newcastle. In terms of attacking options Liverpool striker Danny Ings is another name.” 17:03
GERRARD THE TRANSLATOR
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard entertained journalists in his news conference by acting as translator for new signing Nikola Katic. 16:57
SPURS LATEST
SSN reporter Roger Clarke gives us an update from Tottenham's training ground in Enfield: "It will be interesting to see what Spurs do next, with Villa seemingly digging their heels in. They are saying Jack Grealish is not for sale. "So do Spurs go back in with an improved offer and hope they can force Villa's hand going into TDD? Or do they look elsewhere? "But Grealish seems to be the one they really seem focussed on and have been all summer..." 16:50
'THIS SEASON IS ABOUT WINNING'
Alexis Sanchez says he has put last season behind him and it is all about winning things with Manchester United this term. 16:48
HIBS WON'T BE DISTRACTED BY MCGINN TRANSFER TALK
Efe Ambrose is confident Hibernian can brush off the loss of Scotland midfielder John McGinn and produce another memorable European performance against Molde. McGinn was absent from training on Tuesday and Wednesday after going down to Birmingham for talks as Aston Villa battle Celtic for his signature. "I don't think it's going to affect us," the former Celtic defender said. "We are a team, not an individual. We know it's been coming so we will just focus on the game, that's the most important thing for Hibs. "We know if John is here he is a plus for the team, he is a good player. So we are without John but we are still here and we still have the quality of player to do well. "So we focus on the game and leave John to deal with everything that is going on around him. "We wish him well but in football players come and go so we are not going to be distracted by his transfer." 16:40
HIBS IN HYNDMAN LOAN TALKS
Hibernian are in talks with Bournemouth over the loan move for Emerson Hyndman, according to Sky sources. The American has previously played in Scotland while on loan at Rangers in 2017. Hibs want to get the deal done before the UEFA Deadline tonight so he can play in the Europa League qualifier against Molde at Easter Road tomorrow. 16:35
EVERTON LATEST…
Here’s an update from Sky Sports News reporter Vinny O’Connor at Everton's Finch Farm training ground: “It’s good news for Evertonians at the moment. This deal is close, very close. Bernard flew into Manchester airport earlier this afternoon. "Not only was he met there by our camera, but he was also met by Everton’s player liaison officer as well. He made the short trip to Everton’s Finch Farm training ground. He arrived at around 4.15pm and he’s been in there ever since. "He’s going through the formalities of a medical and they also have to go through the process of sorting out a work permit as well. No real problems are anticipated, certainly from the information we are getting at least. The way this is going to pan out it seems is that once this deal is signed and sealed the likelihood is that Everton will announce Bernard tomorrow, well into time of the 5pm deadline." 16:32
West Brom have made a £3m bid for Rangers captain James Tavernier, according to Sky sources. The 26-year-old full-back has made more than 140 appearances for the Ibrox club since joining from Wigan Athletic in 2015 and scored a penalty for Rangers in their opening day draw against Aberdeen on Sunday. 16:18
'MAN UTD WORKING ON FOUR TARGETS'
Sky Sports News reporter Kaveh Solhekol gives us an update on Manchester United's pursuit of Jerome Boateng and Harry Maguire, among others... 16:08
ALEXIS WANTS 'BIG SIGNINGS' AT UNITED
Alexis Sanchez says Man Utd must sign players of Arturo Vidal's calibre if the club are to compete for trophies this season. "At United we have to sign big players, with experience," Sanchez told Sky Sports. "Barcelona just signed Arturo Vidal, who is a great player and my team-mate from Chile. "He is an example of the type of players we need to sign in order to win trophies and compete at the highest level. "From what I've seen in training, Fred is a player who always wants to get forward, he is always trying to get forward and from a personal point of view I think we'll be able to combine well and it will be good for my game." 15:53
Bournemouth defender Brad Smith has joined MLS club Seattle Sounders on a season-long loan. The Australia international made 11 first-team appearances for Bournemouth after moving from Liverpool in 2016, and missed the majority of last season with a hip injury. Bournemouth retain the option in January to recall Smith from Seattle, who are currently eighth in the Western Conference. https://twitter.com/afcbournemouth/status/1027215975203188736 15:35
MAN UTD WANT BOATENG ON LOAN
Man Utd are keen to bring Jerome Boateng to Old Trafford – but only on loan, rather than on a permanent basis, SSN understands. Jose Mourinho still has the German international as his No 1 choice recruit – but privately behind the scenes at United there are fears over a permanent contract for a player with a chequered history of injuries. Boateng, 29, suffered muscle and tendon injuries over the past three Bundesliga campaigns, missing 27 games in total since December 2016. With one day left of the summer window, Mourinho is running out of time to find a new central defender. Privately, United believe Harry Maguire is not for sale at Leicester and as things stand, Yerry Mina’s chances coming to Old Trafford looks increasingly slim. Executive Vice-Chairman Ed Woodward has made funds available to Jose, but is determined not to pay over the odds in the current market. 15:32
WOLVES CLOSE IN ON DENDONCKER
Wolves are closing in on a deal to sign Belgium international Leander Dendoncker, according to Sky sources. SSN understands the Anderlecht midfielder travelled to England on Wednesday to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical with the Premier League club. Dendoncker has made more than 170 appearances for Anderlecht since his debut for the club in 2013. The 23-year-old has represented Belgium on six occasions and was included in Roberto Martinez's final 23-man squad for the World Cup in Russia, in which the Red Devils finished third. 15:22
BERNARD ARRIVES AT FINCH FARM
Brazil midfielder Bernard has arrived at Finch Farm to undergo his medical at Everton. 15:19
Hibernian will be without John McGinn for the Europa League encounter with Molde after Neil Lennon resigned himself to losing the midfielder following bids from Celtic and Aston Villa. 15:03
WATFORD KEEN ON WARD-PROWSE LOAN
Watford are interested in a loan deal for Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse, according to Sky sources. However, SSN understands the young English midfielder is not available on loan and the Saints will rebuff any such advances for the player. 14:46
TRIO IN TALKS FOR SLIMANI
Sporting Lisbon, Fenerbahce and Besiktas are all in talks to sign Leicester striker Islam Slimani, according to Sky sources. Slimani was Leicester’s record signing when they paid Sporting £28m for him two years ago. The Algerian spent the second half of last season on loan at Newcastle. 14:42
Jack Grealish is very disappointed and disillusioned that Aston Villa are refusing to sell him to Spurs, according to Sky sources. We understand the midfield player was promised he could leave before Villa’s new owners arrived at the club last month. Grealish has not given up on moving to Spurs and he is still hoping that Villa will let him move. 14:23
ALL QUIET AT HUDDERSFIELD
As we wait for new signings at Huddersfield, the locals enjoy a game of crown green bowls... 14:20
GIROUD TO HOLD CHELSEA TALKS
Olivier Giroud says he is set to hold talks with Chelsea over a new contract. The France World Cup winner joined the Blues from Arsenal in January, but his current deal expires at the end of this season. Giroud attracted interest from Atletico Madrid earlier this summer. "No, I am happy here at Chelsea. I just arrived a few months ago and am just starting to settle well,” Giroud told the Standard. "I still have one year (of my contract) to go with Chelsea, plus maybe another one. I'm going to discuss that with the club at the right time. There is no rush." 14:15
BERNARD ARRIVES!
Good news for Everton fans as Brazil international Bernard has arrived at Manchester airport ahead of his expected medical at Finch Farm, which the midfielder is expected to have in the next 48 hours. 14:09
Lyon manager Bruno Genesio admits Nabil Fekir could still leave the club as the summer transfer window comes to a close. 13:45
WHY GREALISH IS IN DEMAND
Why is Tottenham transfer target Jack Grealish worth £25m? We have compared his stats against the average Premier League midfielder to find out.. Read the feature HERE 13:39
DOCHERTY JOINS SHREWS
Rangers confirm midfielder Greg Docherty has joined Shrewsbury Town on a season-long loan deal. Docherty, who joined the Light Blues from Hamilton Accies in January, has made 14 appearances so far in his time at Ibrox. 13:25
CRUYFF NAMED CHONGQING LIFA BOSS
Jordi Cruyff has been named manager of Chinese Super League side Chongqing Lifan. The former Manchester United player ended a successful six-year spell at Maccabi Tel-Aviv earlier this year, which included stints as sporting director and head coach. The 44-year-old succeeds Paulo Bento, who lost his job with Chongqing Lifan last month. 13:11
BOATENG STILL KEEN?
Sky in Germany are reporting that defender Jerome Boateng turned down a move to Manchester United for football reasons but, we are told he wants to move to United and Jose Mourinho wants to sign him. 13:05
MAGUIRE HOPING FOR MAN UTD MOVE
One source has told us United have already had two bids turned down by Leicester for Harry Maguire. The second bid was worth about £60m. Leicester are in advanced talks to sign two centre backs – Filip Benkovic from Dinamo Zagreb and Caglar Soyuncu from Freiburg – at a combined cost of about £35m. As far as Leicester are concerned, Maguire is not for sale; they signed him for £17m from Hull City last summer and he has four years left on his contract. Leicester are expected to offer him a new deal after his impressive performances for England in the World Cup this summer. 12:59
BREAKING NEWS
Sky sources: Leicester defender Harry Maguire is still hoping Manchester United will sign him with just one day to go before the window closes 12:56
AGENT WORLD LIKE 'WILD WEST'
Football agent Jon Smith says FIFA's deregulation of agents has created a 'watery' situation when it comes to player representation. 12:48
CONNOLLY TO JOIN WIGAN
Sky sources: Defender Callum Connolly will join Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan from Everton 12:35
VILLA LEAD RACE FOR McGINN
Aston Villa are in pole position to sign John McGinn despite renewed interest from Celtic, according to Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon. Hibs midfielder McGinn spent Tuesday in talks with Aston Villa but Celtic are believed to have matched the Sky Bet Championship club's offer after having several previous bids rejected. Lennon said: "He went down to Birmingham, I think he is having a medical there. A fee has been agreed. I don't know if personal terms have been agreed yet. "I think Celtic have matched the offer but I think Villa are in the driving position at the minute." 12:24
BREAKING NEWS
West Brom have rejected an offer from Watford for Craig Dawson, according to Sky sources. It is understood the offer was an initial loan year-long loan for a fee of £750,000. The offer also included an option to buy Dawson for £2.5m instalments over four years adding up to a potential total of £10m. 12:18
LATEST TRANSFER BULLETIN
Here's your latest Transfer Centre bulletin from Sky Sports News at lunchtime 12:16
SARRI ON KEPA
Chelsea are in advanced talks to sign Athletic Bilbao's Kepa Arrizabalaga and Maurizio Sarri has been impressed by what he's seen of the goalkeeper. 12:08
NO POGBA WAGE DEMANDS
Paul Pogba has not made any wage demands to keep him at Manchester United, according to Sky sources. On Tuesday, a newspaper report claimed he had demanded a £200k-a-week wage rise to stay at Old Trafford following interest from Barcelona. However, we have been told that Pogba has made no wage demands. 12:05
HUGILL'S BORO MEDICAL
Sky sources: Jordan Hugill has arrived on Teesside to undergo a medical with Middlesbrough. This will be a season-long loan deal for the striker, who signed for West Ham for £9.5m in January. 12:04
GREALISH 'KEEN TO LEAVE'
This one is slaloming a tad, isn't it? SSN understands that Grealish is disillusioned that his dream move to north London now looks doomed and remains desperate to play for Mauricio Pochettino and to test himself at the highest level for a top four Premier League club. 11:57
BREAKING NEWS
Sky sources: Jack Grealish remains keen to move to Spurs and is desperate to test his skills in the Champions League. Grealish, who trained with the Villa squad this morning, was due to complete a £25m move to Spurs until Villa's new owner, Nassef Sawiris intervened. 11:47
BREAKING NEWS
Leicester City are closing in on the signings of Caglar Soyuncu and Filip Benkovic, SSN understands. Soyuncu, 22, could cost up to £20m. The Freiburg defender has won 15 international caps for Turkey and Leicester are confident a work permit won’t be a problem. His agent, Mustafa Dogru, has confirmed on Twitter that they are in negotiations with Leicester over a deal, but he’s stressed there is no agreement yet. Croatia U21 international defender Benkovic is in Leicester today discussing personal terms. He is expected to undergo a medical later today. 11:29
BREAKING NEWS
Sky sources: Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic to have medical at Chelsea today ahead of a loan move. 11:18
CHELSEA DUO TALK TO FEKIR
Olivier Giroud says he and Eden Hazard have spoken to Nabil Fekir about the possibility of joining Chelsea and would “welcome him” at the club. The 25-year-old Lyon man looked set to join Liverpool from Lyon earlier this summer before negotiations between the clubs ended. "I spoke to him when we were together in the French national team, when his move to Liverpool fell through," Giroud told Foot Mercato. "Then we discussed Chelsea, and I even think that Eden said a couple of words to him. "We would obviously welcome him, he is a super player, but I don't know if this is something that could happen as the window closes on Thursday." 11:11
WHO IS KEPA?
We profile Kepa Arrizabalaga as the Spanish goalkeeper edges closer to a big-money transfer to Chelsea... Read the feature HERE 10:55
GREALISH 'GOING NOWHERE'
Big news coming out of Villa Park. Sky sources: Jack Grealish will not be sold to anyone in this transfer window, despite interest from Tottenham and 'other clubs' this window. Sources are telling us Aston Villa's new executive chairman Nassef Sawiris has told Tottenham and any other potential suitors he is not interested in their money. 10:52
BREAKING NEWS
Aston Villa's new owners says Tottenham's £25m bid for Jack Grealish has been rejected outright. 10:44
BORO IN TALKS WITH BOLASIE
Sky sources: Middlesbrough remain in discussions with Yannick Bolasie as they attempt to persuade him to move to The Championship. Everton winger Bolasie has been told he’s surplus to requirements at Goodison Park; Crystal Palace are interested but Boro is a more likely destination. Middlesbrough are discussing both a permanent transfer and/or a loan with a view to a permanent deal. Bolasie is valued around £15m. 10:39
Sky sources: Huddersfield Town defender Jordan Williams undergoing a medical at Barnsley ahead of a permanent move 10:31
BORO WANT HUGILL
Sky sources: Middlesbrough are in talks with West Ham over a loan move for Jordan Hugill. The Middlesbrough-born striker only signed for the Hammers for £9.5m in January. 10:30
KEPA SITUATION
Quite a complicated one, this, but let me explain... Athletic Bilbao have announced that Kepa Arrizabalaga has bought himself out of his contract. This is the done thing at Athletic Bilbao; the same happened with Ander Herrera, Javi Martinez and Aymeric Laporte. It essentially means Kepa is now a free agent and will join Chelsea. The Blues will have paid the money to Kepa, his agent or the company who owns him in order to buy himself out of the contract. Make sense? Good. 10:23
BREAKING NEWS
Athletic Bilbao have confirmed goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga's release clause has been activated. Sky Sports News reported yesterday Chelsea were advanced talks to sign Kepa. 10:16
LOPETEGUI TIGHT-LIPPED ON COURTOIS
Real Madrid head coach Julen Lopetegui refused to comment on the strong rumours linking Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with a move to the Bernabeu. "I always say that I'm not talking about players who are not at Real Madrid. Keylor (Navas) is our goalkeeper and there are no other goalkeepers I can talk about except Keylor, Kiko (Casilla), (Andriy) Lunin and Luca (Zidane). "Keylor is phenomenal, he has our full confidence and is an extraordinary goalkeeper. He's delighted to belong to Real Madrid and we're delighted with him." 10:04
DOUBLE IPSWICH SIGNING
Ipswich have signed centre-back Toto Nsiala and midflieder Jon Nolan from Shrewsbury Town for a combined fee of £1.75m. Both players have signed three-year deals with the club having the option of a further 12 months. 09:48
BREAKING NEWS
Celtic look set to complete a long-term loan deal for Australia World Cup youngster Daniel Arzani later today. The 19-year-old midfielder, who made three sub appearances in Russia, has passed a medical and joins Celtic on a two-year loan, having completed his transfer from Melbourne City to Manchester City, SSN understands. 09:47
BAYER STRIKER SIGNS DEAL
Bayer Leverkusen striker Joel Pohjanpalo has signed a contract extension until 2022, the Bundesliga club have announced. The 23-year-old Finland international, who is currently recovering from an ankle injury, has made 18 Bungesliga appearances for the side and scored seven goals. 09:32
HUDDERSFIELD IN TALKS WITH MBENZA
Huddersfield are now in talks with Montpellier winger Isaac Mbenza, according to Sky sources. Sky Sports News understands Terriers boss David Wagner is keen to add another wide player to his squad after selling Tom Ince to Stoke. Mbenza scored 10 goals in 43 appearances last season as Montpellier finished comfortably mid-table in Ligue 1. 09:30
WAGHORN SIGNS FOR DERBY
Derby have completed the signing of Martyn Waghorn from Ipswich. The 28-year-old striker signs for £5m on a three-year contract. 09:15
WHERE NEXT FOR BOATENG?
It now looks likely Jerome Boateng will stay at Bayern Munich or move to PSG. If PSG are able to present an interesting total package for him, he is likely join them. A decision is expected within the next two weeks. Boateng has a great relationship with Bayern’s new coach Niko Kovac; they are both from the same district in Berlin and Boateng feels Kovac appreciates him as a player. 09:11
BOATENG TO MAN UTD OFF
And here's why... Jerome Boateng’s decision not to join Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford was because he doesn’t believe Manchester United can win the Champions League this season. Sky in Germany understand that Boateng spoke to Jose Mourinho earlier this week to explain that he was honoured by United’s interest in him. However his aim remains to win one more Champions League title – and he feels United are not strong enough to do so in the forthcoming campaign. 09:05
BREAKING NEWS
Defender Ben Mee has signed a new three-year contract at Burnley. The 28-year-old is now committed to at least 2021, with the option of a further 12 months. 09:01
BREAKING NEWS
Winger Adama Traore has completed his move from Middlesbrough to Wolves on a five-year deal. 08:48
BRIGHTON SIGN SIMPKINS
Brighton and Hove Albion have completed the signing of midfielder Emily Simpkins. The 28-year-old joins the club on a free transfer after leaving Doncaster Rovers Belles this summer, and has signed a one-year contract. 08:43
BREAKING NEWS
Sky sources: Bernard is currently travelling from Brazil and is expected to arrive on Merseyside this afternoon ahead of a medical at Everton. Sky Sports News understands that Everton manager Marco Silva has played a key role in the last 24 hours, in persuading Bernard to join the club 08:32
WOLVES SWOOP FOR CLUCAS
Midfielder Clucas saw his move to Burnley collapse over the weekend, and Wolves have moved quickly to try to bring him to Molineux. A formal approach is expected later today. 08:30
BREAKING NEWS
Wolves are keen to sign midfielder Sam Clucas from Swansea before tomorrow’s deadline, SSN has been told. 08:28
COURTOIS > REAL DETAILS
It is understood Thibaut Courtois is currently in Belgium awaiting permission from Chelsea to fly to Madrid to undergo a medical. Real have offered to loan midfielder Mateo Kovacic and pay £35m for the Belgium goalkeeper, but Chelsea are yet to accept the deal. Courtois is keen to move back to Madrid, where he spent three years with Atletico, due to family reasons. The 26-year-old, who has less than year remaining on his current contract at Stamford Bridge, did not report back for training on Monday after being given extra time off following the World Cup. 08:26
BREAKING NEWS
Real Madrid are expecting Thibaut Courtois to arrive in Madrid on Thursday ahead of completing a move to the Bernabeu, according to Sky sources in Belgium. 08:11
HIBS CONFIRM AGYEPONG
Thomas Agyepong has joined Hibernian on a loan move from Manchester City. The 21-year-old is now awaiting the completion of the necessary visa process before joining up with Neil Lennon’s squad. The winger signed for Manchester City in 2015 from the Right to Dream Academy, spending his time since then on loan at Twente and then two seasons at NAC Breda. 08:03
PAPER TALK
Watford have made a £10m offer for Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse (Daily Mail)
Everton are confident they can sign Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma on loan if they are unable to complete a move for Yerry Mina (Daily Mirror)
Burnley have offered £10m for Abdoulaye Touré, the Nantes midfielder (The Times)
Fulham have offered £8m for Hugo Mallo, the Celta Vigo right-back (The Times)
07:52
THE BEST OF GREALISH
Spurs fans: here's what you'd be getting. The best of Jack Grealish from the Championship in the 2017/18 season. 07:44
ATLETI SIGN KALINIC
Atletico Madrid have completed the signing of former Blackburn striker Nikola Kalinic from AC Milan. The 30-year-old, who made 42 appearances for AC Milan last season - scoring six goals - completed his medical in Italy on Tuesday. Sky Italy report the deal is in the region of €15m (£13.5m) including bonuses. 07:30
'SPURS A GOOD FIT FOR GREALISH'
Moving to Tottenham is perfect for Jack Grealish, says the panel on The Debate show. 07:27
FEKIR LATEST
Nabil Fekir was left out of the Lyon's squad to face Chelsea last night admid reports of a move to Stamford Bridge. He did come close to signing for Liverpool this window and Lyon Manager Bruno Genesio can't rule out a late move. "It's too early to say. He wanted to leave at the end of last season, but came back to training yesterday and was happy. "Who knows? There may be opportunities that come up before the end of the window. For now, he is a Lyon player." 07:18
Maurizio Sarri has hinted Eden Hazard will stay at Chelsea after he held positive talks with the Belgian. Hazard had been the subject of interest from Real Madrid this summer but Sarri confirmed he has had talks with Belgium star the attacker more than once, suggesting the 'problem' surrounding his future has been resolved. Sarri said: "I don't see a problem in this moment. I have spoken with Eden two or three times in the last two days. "He has spoken of everything. I think this problem - the Hazard problem - is not present now." 06:59
POGBA: THE REPORTS
There are plenty of newspaper reports surrounding Manchester United the day before the window shuts, and the majority of them concern Paul Pogba. It would be the biggest shock of the window if he was to leave... but the clock is ticking.
Pogba wants a £200,000-a-week pay rise to stay at the club, according to The Sun.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail report that Pogba has told United team-mates he wants to leave and has already agreed a £350,000-a-week contract with Barcelona.
The Daily Star say United are furious with Pogba's agent Mino Raiola for trying to engineer a move to Barcelona for the France star.
Sky in Italy say United have rejected an offer for Pogba from Barcelona of £45m plus Yerry Mina and Andre Gomes.
But United apparently have no desire to part with Pogba, who has just returned to training after winning the World Cup with France.
06:47
ROONEY: UTD NEED TWO SIGNINGS
Wayne Rooney hopes Manchester United can mount a Premier League challenge against Manchester City but admitted they need two more signings to do so. "I hope someone can catch them - it would be nice, so hopefully Manchester United can. I think maybe another signing or two. "I am sure Jose [Mourinho] has been getting the team right. I know there has been a lot of talk about pre-season in the press but I am sure behind the scenes, Jose has been giving them the right amount of work." 06:35
'BOLT WON'T GET SPECIAL TREATMENT'
Central Coast Mariners coach Mick Mulvey says Usain Bolt will be treated as any other player when he joins the Australian A-League club this month on an "indefinite" trial. Mulvey will make the final decision over whether Bolt is offered a contract as the Jamaican sprinting great pursues his long-held dream of playing professional football. "If it was up to him he'd be coming in without any hoopla but that's impossible for a person of his stature. I'm really happy and really looking forward to having him train with the club. "I'm sure when he arrives he'll give a good account for himself and we'll see what happens from there. If it works, he will be offered a contract." 06:22
TRANSFER CENTRE
The latest transfer bulletin from Sky Sports News this Wednesday morning... 06:15
And welcome to Sky Sports live Transfer Centre, bringing you all of the latest news and rumours from the window. It's Wednesday, August 8, and we're in the bizarre position of having just a day-and-a-half of the window left. It's sure to be a frantic day, and we'll bring you absolutely everything until close of play this evening. Join the discussion on Discord. I am a bot. Found any errors? Contact /Football Mods
I didn't like this trade and thought it was vetoable from the sense that Goldschmidt is too valuable IRL to ever be traded. That being said, the return the DBacks got was incredible, and Goldschmidt is a perfect fit for a team that is looking to win the NL West.
...
Its actually a pretty good return imo. Walker is a stud, and Petersen and Jackson could be a 3-4 punch for years once they reach the bigs. Also Michael Saunders (who is 600 times better than JA FUCKING HAPP)
On SnideChis
Pirates get a 3B and the Indians get a RF. Both traded surplus for holes. Nice.
...
I liked the trades Pirates made this week. Good solid trades, IMO.
BoxbergeStewart
Rays clear salary and get some interesting guys to stash in the minors; Pirates take on salary but get a really interesting reliever in Boxberger. Stewart is slightly better than Molina at this stage in their careers, but Boxberger evens it out. Win-win.
JBJ/Kivlehan
They all kinda sucked this week. This was the least worst of the trades where the players swapped were actually relevant players.
Best trade for one party
Move
# of Votes
Goldschmidt to Seattle
4
White Sox trading Alexei
4
Mookie Betts trade
5
Shark/Belt
2
AJ Pollock to Cardinals
3
SnideChisenhall
1
Comments Godtits
Even if there's a surplus value argument that would say that the DBacks got a fair deal with plenty of upside, players of Goldschmidt's caliber, signed to contracts so absurdly team friendly like Goldschmidt's, just simply aren't available on the market except for once every few years. Players of that caliber, that age (this isn't a guy approaching 30), and that contract are such absurdly rare commodities in IRL. Goldschmidt is the type of player you build around, and I'm not sure the Diamondbacks escalated their rebuild at all by trading Goldschmidt for what they got. "Fair with upside to be more than fair" shouldn't be enough for the DBacks to trade Goldy; they shouldn't have traded him unless they were getting an absolutely absurd haul.
...
The other winner is Goldschmidt. Probably 75% of those prospects won't pan out, and even the ones that do are unlikely to approach the level of Goldschmidt. This is a massive victory for Seattle and a huge setback for Arizona, imo. Even if the "value" going back AZ's way is equivalent.
Alexei
IT'S THE FUCKING #1 PICK IN THE DRAFT MAN. I don't care what your concerns are right now, this is way to early to sell low on someone like that.
Mookie/Godner
Barves played Red Sox like a fiddle.
...
Braves bought high on two prospects. The return was not enough for BOTH Gardner and Kimbrel.
...
Gardner and Kimbrel for 2 prospects is absolutely wild
Shark/Belt
getting Belt is a coup for Oakland. He could match Shark's production this year, and he's got 3 years to Shark's 1 (plus may ask for less in an extension).
AJ Pollock*
Even though I think Martinez could a high-end starter, seems odd giving up multiple young players for one, and a similar player to Pollock with less control.
Best Week 5 Signing
Move
# of Votes
Hanley Ramirez
5
Giancarlo Stanton
3
Russell Martin
3
Andrew Miller
4
Chris Denorfia
1
Burke Badenhop
1
Jeff Bianchi
1
Comments HanRam
Only a $14M option is nice, total $ is lower than I expected
...
Dodgers got a premier level talent for far less than what he was worth. Probably helped that he was patient and waited until everyone had busted their load. Agent saying no one else was in on Hanley so Dodgers snatched him up with no competition for $4-5M less per year than he signed for IRL.
Giancarlo*
Dodgers have endless money, locking up a perennial All-Star was a good move for jiggy
Martin*
Super awesome Canadian guy with super awesome skills with super awesome backloaded contract
Miller
Blue Jays got him for significantly under what he got in real life. Relief pitchers are a big part of putting together a good team and they have been painfully undervalued in this sim.
Denorfia
Not much to choose from but this is a solid pickup.
Bianchi
All of them kinda sucked - this one was minimum. Can't complain about the minimum unless you're John Lackey.
Worst Week 5 Signing
Move
# of Votes
Burke Badenhop
6
Russell Martin
5
HanRam
3
Jeff Bianchi
3
Andrew Miller
1
Badenhop
overrated, likely to regress a bit, and paid a bit too much. Could have had him for a couple mil less.
...
Seriously, wat
...
Yeah, more than one GM had offers that were in the 2/$8.5 range so the "he could've gotten him for cheaper" argument doesn't apply. But seriously the one mitigating factor is that its the Dodgers and they have all the MF money. But there are lots of similar relievers to Badenhop, and a lot of them are still free agents. He could've signed a similar pitcher for much cheaper, or kicked in some extra cash and gone after Romo or Uehara.
Martin*
Even though it follows real life signing, seems like an overpay. Martin is being paid for past performance. He will be making $20M per year as a catcher from age 34-36.
...
Makes less sense here than it does IRL. I don't get it for Betty
HanRam
I think the contract is fine or w/e but that much backloading for a sim where we're only GMs for 2015 is horseshit.
Bianchi
This guy barely deserves a roster spot and got a major league contract
Best Week 5 GM
GM
# of Votes
Mariners
5
Pirates
3
A's
3
Cubs
2
White Sox
2
Cards
2
Mariners
He didn't make anyone look like an idiot, but he made the M's instant favorites.
...
Got Goldy
Pirates
Get dunked, kids
...
I mentioned I liked the trades they made this week. I think Pittsburg really improved their team this week.
A's
It was between A's and Mariners here, but I had to go A's, since that Shark trade was the perfect "retool" move---not weakening the MLB roster; not weakening the "farm system".
White Sox
Everyone kinda did shitty so I'll give it to the White Sox who got a nice return for two years (one year + option) of Alexei Ramirez.
Worst GM of Week 5
GM
# of Votes
Braves
5
DBacks
6
Marlins
3
Dodgers
2
Phillies
1
Old Rays GM
1
Red Sox
1
Comments Barves
Didn't get enough in return for trading away two valuable pieces in Gardner and Kimbrel. Comments suggest he did not adequately shop the players either. Hurting his organization.
...
Barves
DBacks
I can see the reasoning behind their deals, but I didn't really like either. If they're rebuilding, seems odd to ship out the young guys they did for Martinez and Bourjos, and they didn't kill the trade shipping out their franchise player.
...
WHAT THE HELL ARE THEY DOING
Marlins
This is tough, as I don't think anyone did particularly poorly this week. I'll have to go with the Marlins due to me not understanding the point behind acquiring Ramirez, especially if it meant losing Tyler Kolek. Marlins traded Stanton which indicated a fully fledged rebuild, but the Ramirez trade contradicts that.
Blue Jays
SO many choices this week
Dodgers
Terrible move after terrible move
Red Sox*
tJaBJjl
Best Agent OVERALL
Agent
# of Votes
ChargedCable
5
NapoleanD
2
cptcliche
3
Bgro
2
Mods
2
Comments*
ChargedCable
dat lester
NapoleanD
Active, shopping his players, doing a good job of stirring up interests in his players.
cptcliche
While he may not have gotten as much for Andrew Miller as I think he could have, it was a fair deal and Hanley Ramirez's deal was very good for his client. That fifth year option of the Ramirez deal will be taken gladly by Ramirez if he declines at all over the next few years.
Bgro*
He's kind of an asshole and I like that
Mods
For Badenhop
...
Whoever Badenhop's agent was
Worst Agent OVERALL Barely any of you fuckers voted in this. Nobody got more than 1 vote. All
I want FAs :(
Mods
For Bianchi
...
for not getting more for the GOAT Bianchi
Bgro
He's too goddamn beautiful
N/A*
Since only the mods, captcliche/, and cardith_lorda/ sealed a deal for their clients this week and I don't have a problem with any of them I don't want to give anyone worst agent. They all did well, props to you guys and please suck more so I can get players for less.
...
all doing juuuuuuust fine. except tdov. u suk <3
iheartmydick*
I'm glad he loves his dick, because I doubt anyone else does.
Tell me how you REALLY feel about the Third Reich (the mods)
literally betty
...
I like 1/3 of the mods
...
We're amazing and deino should be mod next year so I can bitch to him 24/7
Everyone criticizing them should have to automatically be a mod next time arou n d to see what it's like.
so we'll like have 20 mods next year, ok.
I would fuck most of them
mmmmmmmmm ...
I think people are too hard on the mods and that the mods could also stop being fucks
...
Will try to provide some constructive criticism without using the H-word. Overall, I think there have been definite positives. I think the negatives boil down to a couple things:
A bit of a lack of communication and transparency. Often, people are left wondering what is happening with their trades, and often, there isn't much communication. I think if you guys would try to let people know where deals stand, and make a concerted effort to reply on every deal RE approvals, outbids, etc (instead of us finding out through the trade threads), that would help.
Length of time to approve/post deals. I honestly don't really ding you as much as some others might, since I know there's a lot of stupid shit that comes through modmail, and you guys have a LOT of stuff to look at. However, I think that really, a lot of the deals that come through should be quick. I can understand if it's a big complicated deal like, say, the Goldschmidt deal, or a deal involving an NTC, or whatever, but smaller trades should be faster. Post them as soon as you decide, instead of waiting to post them with whatever big move is being held up. Finally, I think a schedule for trade threads (ie, post them every week on a schedule instead of on varying days) needs to happen for the rest of the sim.
Approving unbalanced deals: Honestly, this is a much more minor thing. REDACTED, but I do think that for some deals, it would help if REDACTED you guys would communicate with the trade partners "hey, this seems slightly slanted in GM X's favor. If you take out piece Y/add another piece in this would be a pretty good bet to be approved". Something like that. This would have been perfect for the Castro trade for example. I think just doing that kind of thing can help cut down on overly unbalanced trades, while not outright rejecting everything.
Additionally, a pet peeve of mine (and others)--I do sympathize when you guys say that you have a lot to dig through, but it comes off in a bad way when irlkg uses the "we have lives too" argument or the "we're doing all this for you argument" considering that the mods all volunteered for the job, and we're only asking for a bit more transparency and speed (not to mention that said irlkg comments came after several hours of talking football on the IRC).
Other than that, keep up the good work. And y'all are chill people.
Manchester City vs Manchester United odds, preview and predictions
Sunday 20/03/2016, 17:00, Premier League, Round 30 Manchester City vs Manchester United Preview Few football games in the English Premier League generate as much enthusiasm as the Derby of Manchester. Back in the day, Manchester United was favorite to prevail both at home and on the road but things have changed and now their city rivals are credited in the first chance. Both teams have plenty to fight for, in addition to glory and tradition, because the winner will have a better chance at securing a Champions League berth. Manchester City vs Manchester United Odds At 10bet Manchester City 1.85, Draw 3.40, Manchester United 4.20 Manchester City vs Manchester United Tips Manchester City announced its intention to focus on the Champions League this season, a competition that they have never won. So far they are on the right track after causing the Swiss elimination Dynamo Kiev, but the most difficult opponents lie in wait. Until the European competition resumes, they need to focus on the Premier League and defend their position. The stakes are as high as they get, because if Manchester City fails to defend the fourth place, it won playing the most important European tournament next season. Not only Manchester United but also West Ham are trying to unseat them, so there are plenty of threats and tonight the hosts have a great opportunity to address one of them. Manchester United was eliminated from Europa League by Liverpool yet there is a silver lining to the entire story. Many of the players have returned to fitness and the starting formation features some of the veterans for the first time in many weeks. Even so, playing on the road is going to be problematic, as the Red Devils have won very few games when they didn't have home pitch advantage. They've lost back-to-back games against West Bromwich and Liverpool before splitting points with West ham and pushing the FA Cup into an additional round. As key players return to fitness, many of those who had to play plenty of games in 2016 are suffering from fatigue. They will need to play at highest potential if Manchester United is to avoid defeat at Etihad Stadium. Key Facts Overall the two teams are evenly matched with City winning 25 games at home and losing 26. Just two all the last 13 games ended undecided, with Manchester United winning six. Manchester City vs Manchester United Prediction This is not the kind of game in which the teams will play pragmatic football and they won't stop at attacking the opposing net regardless of score. It's a great opportunity for punters to bet on Manchester City to win outright, even though the odds offered by 10bet don't exceed 1.85. Bet: Manchester City @ 1.85 with 10bet via www.casinoreviews.casino
How would you rate our chances of winning the Champions League vs other English clubs?
I know that betting odds are mostly calculated based on betting patterns and aren't a result of informed analysis, but I found it interesting that while Arsenal are placed as favourites to win the Premier League we're placed quite a long way behind our PL rivals in terms of winning the Champions League I know that we have the toughest draw in the last 16 but that shouldn't factor in to outright betting as every team will eventually have to come up against Barca/Bayern/Madrid if they want to win the tournament. It also can't be down to our history of getting knocked out in the CL, as while Chelsea may have won it in recent memory, Man City have never exactly lit up the tournament! While I think nobody in /gunners expects us to win the CL (or any other English club for that matter), where would they rank us in terms of likelihood against the other teams in the competition and in particular our PL rivals? edit: again, this isn't just a "will we beat Barca?" question, I'm well aware that's unlikely. It's more a question of - why are other English teams seen as more likely overall winners than us? Is there something about Chelsea/Man City that they are more likely to cause an upset against one of the CL favourites than we are?
Talking Points: Three of Europe’s Biggest Clubs All Lose in Same Weekend
Talking Points: Three of Europe’s Biggest Clubs All Lose in Same Weekend
It was an incredible weekend for European football, in which Arsenal, Real Madrid and PSG ALL lost. So what has that done to their respective divisions, and what does it mean for punters?
1 – Premier League Title Race Down to Two Contenders?
It always looked likely that last weekend would be a crucial one in the Premier League title shake-up, and so it proved. Leicester City continued their fine form with a late show against Norwich; an 89th minute winner from Leonardo Ulloa sealing the deal there, while Spurs came from a goal down to beat Swansea 2-1. While the fourth contender in the title race, Manchester City, weren’t in action as they were off winning the League Cup, it was left to Arsenal to keep themselves in the reckoning at City’s Manchester rivals United. But it proved a test too far: United’s teenage sensation Marcus Rashford netting a brace for his die in a 3-2 win. That result leaves the Gunners three points behind Tottenham and five behind Leicester at the summit of the Premier League table, and their odds of winning it have lengthened to 3.75 accordingly. They take on Spurs in a couple of weeks, while Leicester can sit back and watch with relish. Their odds of 3.00 loo great value, and so they in the Bet Advisor betting tips for today.
2 – Atletico Claim Spoils in Battle of Madrid
It was a fixture that would go a long way to determining how easy Barcelona’s run to successive La Liga titles would be, and yet the Catalan giants weren’t even involved. Instead, the two Madrid clubs did battle in what is likely to be a contest to see who finishes second behind Luis Enrique’s side. And it was Atletico who came out on top courtesy of an Antoine Griezmann goal and yet another fantastic defensive performance. Diego Simeone’s side are now eight points adrift of Barcelona but four clear of Real, and with that defensive record – they’ve conceded just 11 goals in 26 games – they look so hard to beat. It’s quite possible they will finish above their Madrid rivals, which would be a huge achievement.
3 – Slump? What Slump? Juventus Return to Winning Ways
It’s testament to their outstanding form that even a couple of dropped points away from home represents a slump, but some pundits were suggesting Juventus’ bubble had burst following a 0-0 draw with Bologna last time out. Those predictions proved completely wrong as goals from Leonardo Bonucci and Alvaro Morata secured a 2-0 win over historic rivals Inter Milan. Juve are once again four points clear awaiting Napoli’s result against a tough Fiorentina outfit tonight, and so their outright price of 1.57 to claim the Serie A title remains, as it has done for weeks now, at the heart of today’s betting tips.
4 – Business As Usual For Bayern and Dortmund
Two games, two wins. While the quality of football on offer in the Bundesliga is often a joy to behold, unfortunately the predictability of the title race is slightly less appetising. Despite Dortmund’s fumblings last season, they and Bayern remain head and shoulders above the rest in Germany’s top flight. Bayern went to Wolfsburg and returned with a 2-0 victory in their grasp despite once again being without three first choice centre backs, while Dortmund’s domination of Hoffenheim manifested itself in a 3-1 win.
5 – It’s Over: PSG Finally Beaten
It was a bit of a surprise to see PSG lose on Sunday – many thought they were heading for an ‘invincible’ campaign – but even more surprising, perhaps, was the identity of the victor. Lyon are packed with talent but frustratingly inconsistent; as defeats to 11th placed Bastia and 15th placed Lille in recent weeks confirm. But with four wins in their last six, things seem to be looking up for the former Ligue 1 champions. They are in to 2.40 to finish in the top three once again, and that is the last of today’s football betting tips.
Check out the odds on our English Premier League outright Winner 2020/21 page, and show your football knowledge. Who will win the English Premier League? It looks like Man City is the favourite at the moment, at odds of 1/25. A £10 bet on it to win the English Premier League at these odds would win you £10.4. The next favourite is Man Utd, at odds of 22/1*. A £10 bet on it at these odds Premier League - Winner 20/21. Get the best available Premier League odds from all online bookmakers with Oddschecker, the home of betting value. Outright winner odds comparison for other top football competitions. Since you are interested in checking to see which bookie has the highest odds for the potential winner of the Italian Serie A, you might also be interested in finding the highest odds for other major football competitions listed below. Champions League winner odds. Europa League winner odds. La Liga winner odds. Serie A Examples of Premier League outright winner odds expressed in American, Decimal and Fractional formats. For American odds format, there are two sets of expressions to remember, but both involve the figure of $100. First, negative numbers express how much one needs to wager in order to win a profit of $100. So for example, near the end of the season, if a team has all but wrapped up the title City odds-on to regain title. Manchester City are now hot favourites at 2/5 to be crowned champions for the third time in four years in bwin’s Premier League winner odds. Their midweek 2-0 triumph over Aston Villa was a sixth straight top-flight victory and a ninth consecutive win in all competitions. Premier League outright odds: Other markets. You can bet on many more outright markets than just the Premier League winner. As well as backing a team to lift the famous trophy, many bookmakers Get the latest odds on the Premier League winner. Click on the odds for the selection to go straight to betslip for you to place your football bets. At BettingOdds.com we highlight the Win Percentage Probability so you can see how the bookmakers rate each team's chances when it comes to the Premier League winner odds. Latest Betting English Premier League odds show the Reds at 9/4 to win the domestic crown for the first time since the 1989/90 season. Other Premier League Outright Winner Bets. Alongside the outright winner odds, punters can find Premier League top four betting markets. If you're betting on Man Utd in the Premier League Winner market then head to Coral as they currently offer the best Premier League odds at 11/2. Liverpool After the top 4, Liverpool are the only other club that bookmakers feel have a decent chance of winning the upcoming Premier League after finishing 6th last season. Premier League betting on the top flight of English football. Get the best value on all available match and season odds, along with the top bookie offers
Premier League Outright Odds Comparison - Arsenal Outright Odds
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