The Sports Matrix: Tuesday 8 February 2011
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Chelsea have to solve tactical issue
Fernando Torres admitted that Liverpool’s formation surprised Chelsea on Sunday. “We were not expecting that and maybe they took advantage,” he said. Chelsea need a plan that accommodates Torres and Didier Drogba without sacrificing width.
Jenkins defends under-fire duo
Neil Jenkins has given his support to Welsh half-backs Mike Phillips and Stephen Jones following England’s victory. “When we don’t win it always seems to be No 10’s problem,” he said. England have called up Alex Corbisiero and James Simpson-Daniel. MORE
Packers delight but fears for NFL future
Fans lined the streets of Green Bay yesterday to welcome the victorious Packers after their first Super Bowl win for 14 years. But there are fears that a labour dispute may disrupt next year’s NFL season. MORE
Albion consider Appleton full time
West Bromwich are keen for Roberto di Matteo’s replacement as head coach to work under a director of football. Caretaker Michael Appleton is a possible permanent replacement, as is current St Johnstone manager Derek McInnes. MORE
Orr ambitious after Castleford return
Half-back Danny Orr is hoping to lead Castleford to glory against Wakefield on Saturday as the new Super League season kicks off. Orr has returned to his hometown club signing a one-year deal following spells at Wigan and Harlequins. MORE
Carragher praises new Anfield unity
Jamie Carragher has hailed the impact of Kenny Dalglish since he became Liverpool’s caretaker manager. “What Kenny’s done has got all the club as one, supporters are behind everything and it helps that the players and supporters are together.” MORE
Trott the lone star of one-day defeat
England’s 6-1 defeat in the one-dayers in Australia was their first series defeat in 14, dating back to late 2009. While Jonathan Trott was the obvious success of England’s series, Kevin Pietersen, Ian Bell and Eoin Morgan all disappointed with the bat. MORE
Speed’s Wales to open Nations Cup
The Nations Cup starts this evening as the Republic of Ireland host Wales at the Aviva Stadium. The tournament is a revamp of the old Home Nations championship, albeit without England. Tonight will be Gary Speed’s first game as Wales manager. MORE
Kubica out of coma after rally accident
Robert Kubica was yesterday awakened from an induced coma following his accident on Sunday. The Renault F1 driver fractured his right arm and leg as well as partially severing his right hand, and will likely take a year to recover from his injuries. MORE
Opinion: James Lawton
Liverpool’s psychologically stunning victory on Sunday was the clearest evidence that Kenny Dalglish has re-established a founding principle of the club – that if the players are trusted their self-belief will grow. MORE
Walcott: draw at Newcastle was a decent result
Theo Walcott spoke yesterday of how news of Manchester United’s defeat lifted the mood after Arsenal’s surprise draw at Newcastle. United lost their first game of the season just hours after Arsenal threw away a 4-0 lead to draw 4-4. “It changed the mood,” said Walcott, “the boss’s mood as well. It’s a point gained. None of us wanted to look the boss [Arsène Wenger] in the eye [after the game], that’s for sure. It was such a disappointment, when you are 4-0 up and want to win the league, it shouldn’t happen.” Walcott will start for England against Denmark tomorrow night along with fellow Arsenal youngster Jack Wilshere who is likely to play in defensive midfield. “Jack’s an absolute dream to play with especially when you play on the right-hand side – he has got an absolutely gifted left foot,” Walcott said. “He can just ping it over to you. He spots the ball that no one else would – apart from Cesc [Fabregas], I suppose. But he breaks down the play very well as well and I’m sure, given the role, he will grab it with both hands because he’s the kind of player who plays with no fear.”
Cole upset with ‘personal’ booing
Ashley Cole said booing at Wembley had hurt him “even more” because it was personal. “But every time I put on an England shirt I try my hardest,” said the man who will become England’s most capped full-back if he faces Denmark tomorrow. MORE
Klitschko brands Haye ‘liar, loser’
Wladimir Klitschko has rubbished David Haye’s threat to retire soon without fighting him, branding him “a liar and a loser”. Haye said he would retire in October, but Klitschko said “he is bluffing, just as he always has been” after a July fight fell through. MORE
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments