Idan Tal
Just like Tal Ben Haim, another ex-Wanderer, Idan Ta,l has commented about the England squad and the state of English football in general ahead of Saturday’s Euro 2008 qualifier in which England and Israel battle for points at Wembley Stadium. Here’s what the former part-time Trotter had to say:
“When I was in England I remember speaking with a lot of fans who were so disappointed with the state of the national team. They didn’t like how they played and maybe the reason could be the manager. They are just not convincing at all.
“One of the problems is that the gap between international football and Premier League football has been filled by foreign players. There is no doubt about it, the players that come to England increase the level and that leads to problems against the best national teams. The Premier League is good mostly because of these players.
“Obviously I don’t wish anyone to be injured, it’s not nice, but maybe it will be good. But they will still have 11 players so it will be very difficult. It doesn’t matter who is playing for England - it will be a hard game for us.”
In some ways I agree with Tal but I doubt that Israel will beat England.
Someone who really does not agree with Tal’s comments is former Wigan manager and now Radio 5 presenter, Paul Jewell.
“What of Israel? I think they are average. They are not a world force and even if Hargreaves and Gerrard miss out, our reserve side should win it.
“One of their players, Idan Tal, was critical about English football this week. Let’s just say English football probably feels the same way about him. He did nothing at Everton or Bolton and where is he now? Back home in Jerusalem playing in a league a million miles off Premier League quality.
“Let’s hope Emile and England answer him in style.”
Tags : Engalnd Ex Wanderers Idan Tal Israel
