Transatlanticism

Every team needs a player like Joey Barton.

His temperament may cost his team a win in a football game, he may fly tackles at the risk of injuring players, but all in all, this is the type of player you will need to win a big tournament.

You need to take a gamble with certain players in a team who possess different characteristics to change the condition of the game and to tilt the balance of the pitch towards your favour. These players are more than just skilful players, players who are ‘politically correct’ and obey the rules of the game, players who have leadership qualities to inspire. 

You need to have a player who dare to be different. Players who dare to risk, flying tackles beyond the mercy of a sending-off, playing the game they want to. Many players play game within the rules, but great players know how to play beyond the rules. They are strong and daring enough to take the risks at the mercy of their players. Sadly, this will sabotaged your team but in this modern era you need controvesial players to win you championships. 

Most teams play with safe players in a view of being consistent throughout the season to get the maximum points, but few teams recognized the gems of this sort of player to win them the biggest game for the clubs.

Barton is unique. He is not a stupid player, he just wants to play his game. It is in his DNA to play a dangerous game in football. Without danger, there is no chance to create a miracle. He has a lion heart, he’s not afrad to make mistakes, does his own business and doesn’t matter whether others will view him as a great player. 

Well, if England wants to win Euro 2012, Capello got to take him to the squad. It’s all or nothing anyway in a championship like this. You might as well play the highest hand you’ve got in the cards.

Just some soccer rantings…