Source: Daily_Mail
Leo's London: Spurs should have avoided plastic pitch
Artificial pitches may be good for all-weather training and for matches in some of the world's most extreme climates.[LNB]But when they are installed simply to make a profit and their use prompts one of the game's governing bodies to carry a disclaimer about players' safety, something has to be done.[LNB]At the very least, Young Boys of Berne, who defeated Tottenham 3-2 this week in the first-leg of their Champions League qualifying play-off, should not be allowed to play on an artificial pitch in the competition.[LNB] Pitch problems: Jermain Defoe suffered a recurrence over his troublesome groin[LNB]It doesn't matter how much manager Harry Redknapp sounds like he is peddling a case of sour grapes in calling for a ban - he is still right.[LNB]UEFA's rules and regulations - which they are hiding behind - provide no explanation for allowing clubs like Berne to use artificial turf.[LNB]They simply say it is can be used as long as it meets standards set out by the world governing body, FIFA.[LNB]There is no insistence on a grass preference and no climate criteria, which would have the advantage of making sense.[LNB]UEFA seem to swallow whole the assertion that the modern versions of the plastic pitch - or at least those that comply with FIFA regulations updated back in 2005 - are just as good as the surface the game was meant to be played on.[LNB]But why use an imitation when you can use the real thing? Why allow logical suspicions about an unfair advantage fester? Even Young Boys' players admitted it took some adapting to the bounce when the pitch was wet. [LNB] Crash and Berne: Tottenham's players look for answers after their woeful first half against Young Boys[LNB]If one of Europe's big clubs (who had a regular presence in the latter stages of the Champions League and no need for an alternative to grass) switched to an artificial pitch there is little doubt an outcry about the benefits it would give them and a swift review of the rules would follow.[LNB] In the meantime, UEFA simply insist the final of the competition must be played on grass and leave a telling rider that they 'cannot be held responsible for any damages to third parties resulting from the use of the artificial turf'.[LNB]It is cowardly at best, but European football's governing body are not the only ones to blame.[LNB]FIFA advocate the use of artificial pitches and argue it helps in the development of the game.[LNB]In many instances they could even be right. But to hold-up Young Boys of Berne as a great example of why it should be used - as they do - is shameful.[LNB] Pav some of that: Roman Pavlyuchenko's late goal gives Tottenham hope going into the second leg[LNB]The Swiss club, apparently owned by the Stade de Suisse company rather than the other way around, are quite open about their approach. They want to make more money and an artificial pitch makes it easier.[LNB]They don't say it improves the football, simply that grass may not allow them to put on Robbie Williams or Bon Jovi concerts, as they have done, and that its evergreen appearance looks better in photos and film.[LNB]No-one is against them making money, and if the profit is all invested in the team, there is a certain appeal.[LNB]But for a club competing in Europe's premier club competition there must be a better way.[LNB] LAWRO'S DROG BITE WAS OUT OF ORDERAs a former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender, Mark Lawrenson really should know better. [LNB]The BBC pundit has played at the highest level and, presumably, knows all about the aches and pains players put up with to compete for their clubs and countries.[LNB]So it is a mystery why, last Sunday, on Match of the Day2, he should doubt Didier Drogba's claim that the striker has been playing in pain.[LNB] Out of order: Liverpool legend Lawrenson was wrong to snipe at Drogba[LNB]Lawrenson's Pinocchio gesture after the Chelsea's forward scored a hat-trick against West Bromwich in their opening game of the Premier League season was a cheap shot.[LNB]The pundit's forthright views can make him easier to listen to than others who sit on the fence, but not this time.[LNB]Drogba's claim that he has been struggling with a hernia for six years sounds melodramatic.[LNB] Hitting back: Last season's Golden Boot winner Drogba got off to perfect start last weekend [LNB]Yet he hasn't claimed to have needed crutches or that it stopped him from running, just that it has nagged at him and forced him to adapt.[LNB]Maybe the problem was not accurately diagnosed immediately or has emerged clearly after other injuries, but Drogba's winning the Golden Boot last season does not mean it was a figment of his imagination as Lawrenson suggested.[LNB] PALACE MUST MOVE ON FROM THE PAST...Crystal Palace signed a new midfielder on Wednesday but instead of former World Cup star Edgar Davids it was free agent Stuart O'Keefe, who had been at League Two Southend.[LNB]And in many ways, that was good news for the club.[LNB]Signing the argumentative Dutchman would not be wise, even if a pay-as-you play deal would protect Palace a little.[LNB]After all they have been through in the last decade and beyond, it is hard not to think of their flash transfer disasters, such as Tomas Brolin. Former top players who are long past their best are seldom the solution, whatever the problem.[LNB] Centre of attention: Crystal Palace have grabbed the headlines in their pursuit for Dutch master Edgar Davids[LNB]Even the idea of making big-name signings should be eschewed in these early days after their most recent cash crisis.[LNB]The club need more grounded principles until their footing is extremely firm.[LNB]Trying to sprinkle a bit of stardust around Selhurst Park - albeit far less cautiously - is what has got them in trouble in the past and they should be looking to build a future on different principles.[LNB] It's fate! Spurs star Defoe convinced Swiss will roll over at White Hart LaneMourinho gives up on Drogba as Real refuse to splash cash on Chelsea starHolland legend Davids set to complete shock Crystal Palace move [LNB]
