Real Madrid Clinch Supercopa

Real Madrid secured their first Spanish Supercopa since 2008 on away goals after a narrow victory over arch rivals Barcelona in tonight's second leg at the Bernabeu. The hosts had failed to win in their last seven home meetings with Barca but went about ending that record early on with goals in the first 20 minutes from Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The visitors were then reduced to 10 men as Adriano was shown a straight red card for denying Ronaldo a clear goalscoring opportunity, but they regained their composure and were brought back into the game by a stunning free-kick from Lionel Messi just before half-time. Chances continued to come at both ends after the break but Real failed to make their man advantage count and were nearly made to pay as Messi shot just inches wide deep into stoppage time.

Real had failed to win any of their previous three games this season but they did not seem like a side lacking in confidence as they stormed out of the traps early on. Higuain should have opened the scoring on seven minutes when his low effort across Victor Valdes was well blocked by the keeper, but the Argentinian was gifted his goal only two minutes later by compatriot Javier Mascherano as the Barca defender misjudged a long ball forward from Pepe and allowed Higuain to run through and this time finish low beyond Valdes.

And it was two just nine minutes later as Ronaldo pounced on an error this time by Gerard Pique. The Portuguese brilliantly back-flicked the ball into his path and, despite a poor second touch, his powerful shot rebounded in off Valdes' body. The chances continued to come for Real as Valdes again denied Higuain from a narrow angle before Pepe had a header controversially ruled out for a push on Mascherano.

Part of Barca's disorganisation at the back could possibly be put down to a late change in the starting line-up as the injured Dani Alves had to be replaced by Jordi Alba with Adriano moving to right-back, and the Brazilian's torrid evening only lasted 27 minutes as he hauled down Ronaldo when he seemed set to break free on Valdes once more.

After another unsettling five-minute period for the Catalans, new coach Tito Vilanova eventually introduced Martin Montoya for Alexis Sanchez and a return to four at the back seemed to offer the visitors some comfort as they began to make an impression on the game. Montoya was inches away from converting a vicious low cross from Andres Iniesta before Messi did eventually halve the deficit moments before the interval with an incredible swerving free-kick from 30 yards. Ronaldo nearly responded with a long-range effort himself that flew just past and Angel Di Maria also shot narrowly wide as Madrid ended the half threatening a third.

However, at the start of the second period, it was Barca's tiki-taka that began to dictate play as the pace of the game dropped markedly. Pedro very nearly scored a carbon copy of his goal in the first leg as Mascherano's perfectly weighted pass saw him through on goal but his prodded finish did not have enough power to get through Iker Casillas' legs and the Spain captain collected at the second attempt. Sami Khedira then nearly restored Real's two-goal cushion but was denied by another fine Valdes save at the end of a brilliant run.

Barca remained dangerous, though, and another brilliant piece of play from Messi released Alba through on goal, but he just over-ran the ball as he rounded Casillas and was eventually crowded out. Higuain should have given Real breathing space with 11 minutes remaining but he hit the outside of the post with only Valdes to beat and that miss nearly cost his side as Barca came desperately close to equalising in stoppage time. Firstly, Montoya was denied by a solid save from Casillas before Messi seemed destined to hand Barca the cup as he found space on his favoured left side just outside the area but the ball slipped just wide and Real clung on for their first Supercopa title in four years. Check out the goals/highlights below: 

Radamel Falcao, El Tigre

After a blistering 2010-11 season, which saw his remarkable tally of 17 goals in 14 Europa League games break Jurgen Klinsmann's European scoring record (15) and fire Porto to glory in the competition, Falcao has established himself as one of the most fearsome and coveted strikers in world football.

Moving from his native Colombia to River Plate as a 14-year-old, Falcao was relentless in his desire to become a professional footballer and his battling spirit - coupled with netting two goals on his debut - quickly won over the Argentinean fans, who nicknamed him El Tigre - The Tiger.

A serious knee injury in 2006 threatened to hamper his development but after a tough 12 months, he returned to form and was River's top scorer as they sealed the 2008 Clausura title. The talented Colombian's performances had not gone unnoticed, however, and Porto snapped him up in 2009 to replace outgoing star Lisandro Lopez.

His impact was immediate, as he fast became one of Portuguese football's most prolific strikers, netting 34 goals in all competitions and claiming the winner as Porto won the domestic Cup. Falcao's league form was less spectacular in his second season but his outstanding record in Europe alerted some of the continent's biggest clubs and he was strongly linked to a reunion with former boss Andre Villas-Boas at Chelsea.

On 18 August 2011, Porto announced they had agreed a fee with Atlético Madrid for the transfer of Falcao. The transfer fee was €40 million with the fee potentially rising to 47 million based on performance-based clauses, making it the most expensive in the club's history. On 3 November, Falcao netted a goal in Atlético's 4–0 triumph over Udinese, the goal meant that Falcao had scored 19 goals in his last 18 Europa League games. 

For the first leg of the 2011–12 Europa league semifinals against Valencia, Falcao scored a double in a 4–2 victory while making Atletico Madrid the first team to win 10 straight matches in a single Europa League season. Falcao added to his Europa League tally in the final against fellow La Liga side Athletic Bilbao, netting Atletico's opening 2 goals in a 3–0 triumph at the Arena Națională in Bucharest on Wednesday 9 May 2012. In doing so, Falcao not only became the top goal scorer in a Europa league season again but became the first player in history to win two consecutive Europa League/UEFA Cup titles with two different teams. 

In all competitions, Falcao had scored a record of 36 goals for Atletico Madrid, the highest amount by any player in a first season playing for Atletico Madrid.

The Journey

I know it's a bit late, but it's better than never right? Gotta give huge props for this type of video for Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Have a look at it people. 

Two special children build a beautiful relationship based on genuine care and understanding. On the eve of Hari Raya, these orphans, Ahmad and Fizi embark on a journey and encounter many challenges along the way. Through their perseverance and determination, they overcome all odds to fulfill their obligation of unconditional love.

United Fans 'Will Love Büttner'

Alexander Büttner has the wherewithal to become a fans' favourite at Manchester United, according to former Reds goalkeeper Raimond van der Gouw.

The 49-year-old goalkeeping coach worked with the left-back at Vitesse Arnhem until earlier this week, when the defender completed his move to Old Trafford.

"If he can play plenty of games then people will love him because he gives absolutely everything," van der Gouw told ManUtd.com. "Don't worry about that; he'll never let you down.

"He's scored a few goals, but that's because he started out as a left midfielder. He only became a left-back in the last couple of years, but he made such big progress that it became his position.”

"He still likes to go forward and try to score. He has a powerful kick, a very good left foot and he puts in some good crosses, too. He has a lot of energy and he's good for team spirit."

Van der Gouw made 60 appearances in six seasons with United, and passed his experience onto his young compatriot, who is champing at the bit to make his mark at Old Trafford.

"He's so excited about joining United," said Raimond. "Having got the chance, he really wants to go for it. He was very impressed with what he saw of Old Trafford when he went to sign, even though it was empty. I know the feeling.”

"I told him he was very lucky to be arriving at a club like United, because it's a totally different world to any other club, and I told him to take the chance with both hands. I really hope he does."

- An article from ManUtd.Com - 

Crying Out for Kagawa

Oh how I've missed the knotted stomach, the uneasy shifting on the seat and the increasingly frantic checking of the watch.

Yes, football is well and truly back at Old Trafford! Whatever happens this season, it clearly is not going to be dull following United. Saturday's game versus Fulham offered a tantalising glimpse of what could be an enthralling campaign.

The boss said afterwards that the game showed the two sides of Manchester United - thrilling attacking play allied to a bit of defensive slackness. It's a heady mix and isn't great for the heart-rate. I don't think it's fair to go overboard on the lapses at the back due to the fact that United still don't have anywhere near a full compliment of defenders available. I'd rather concentrate on the attacking possibilities we now have.

I thought some of United's play in the first half against Fulham was exhilarating. Red shirts flooding forward, short, precise and quick passes, players interchanging positions and lots of clever movement. At the heart of it all was Shinji Kagawa. The Japanese International was a somewhat unheralded signing in the summer but anyone who followed the pre-season action on MUTV won't be surprised by his early impact.

He's got really quick and clever feet and is very difficult to pick up by defenders as he plays in between midfield and attack. He is the player we've been crying out for and I'm sure he'll be a huge success for United. And he has the happy habit of being able to score goals - 17 of them for Dortmund last year and he's already underway for United.

Talking of goals, have you heard a louder roar for a goal at Old Trafford in recent times than the one that greeted Robin van Persie's stunning strike? What a special moment. Afterwards the Dutchman suggested that the goal was lucky! Well here's to many more lucky strikes in his United career.

Wayne's horrible injury meant the game finished on a bit of a sour note. But at least United now have a wealth of forward options to call upon whilst he recuperates. United look full of goals and if they don't regain the title this year, I'm sure it won't be because of goal difference!

Dennis Bergkamp - Legends of the Barclays Premier League

Two words to describe Dennis Bergkamp, Dutch Master. He made his final bow as an Arsenal player at the end of 2006 season at Highbury before they moved to the newly built Emirates Stadium. He's known as the non-flying Dutchman due to Aerophobia (fear of flying). But above all that, he's a legend in the Premier League and for Arsenal. When you think of him, you'll think of his great vision of passing abilities and also, his wonder goals. Originally as a midfielder, was moved into a striking role and then as a second striker. Described by another BPL legend Thierry Henry, as a dream for a striker. Not forgetting, he was a part of the strike force that led Arsenal to an unbeaten run in the league, dubbed The Invincibles back in the 2003/2004. I still remember THAT goal against Newcastle at St James' Park (I refuse to call it Sports Direct Arena) where he made a fool out of Dabizas. If you need to refresh your minds with THAT goal, have a look at the video lads!!! 

Ryan Giggs - Legends of the Barclays Premier League

When you mention Ryan Giggs, there's only one thing that comes out of your mind, Legend. He's been at Manchester United for over 2 decades now. Although the Welsh Wizard is well known for his mazy runs, he's changed his style of play and has been suited of a more central role in the last couple of seasons and he has reveled in it. He has scored in every single season  of the Barclays Premier League for Man Utd. It wouldn't surprise me if gets another extension at the end of current season if he performs the usual again. He's played the most games in BPL history and definitely the most decorated British footballer of all time. It would be a major task for the management to find a replacement for the Welsh Wizard once he calls an end to his amazing  trophy laden career. I personally think that there's no better left sided winger in the world except Ryan Giggs; past, present and future. What you lads think? Enjoy the video lads. 

Alan Shearer - Legends of the Barclays Premier League

After posting about Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the Barclays Premier League Legends, I couldn't just stop there. I just had to write more and more. I will update you folks on more  legends but for now, let's talk about the Geordie legend, Alan Shearer. 

The name Alan Shearer will forever be remembered by everyone who watches the Premier League. He's been dubbed as Mr Premiership. He was simply the unbelievable and most of the time, unplayable for the opponents. A flourishing career at Southampton, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United. A big, traditional centre forward with great ability to find the net. He currently holds a number of Premier League records: 260 Premiership goals, 11 hat-tricks, 3 straight golden boot winner and loads more. As a Geordie, Big Al turned down Man Utd twice to play for his boyhood club, Newcastle Utd. And boy, did he made a name for himself in the black and white strip. THAT wonder goal against Everton, will forever be fresh in my mind. No idea what I'm talking about? You just gotta see the video below and admire the Mr Premiership himself, Alan Shearer. 

Cristiano Ronaldo - Legends of the Barclays Premier League

I just got a tip from an old buddy of mine, Ezry, to watch this video on one of the Barclays Premier League Legends, Cristiano Ronaldo. It definitely took me back in time and just appreciate all the work he had done for Manchester United. It was his second home as he always calls it. Now, he's still with his third home, Real Madrid. I hope one day, he returns to play for Manchester United. Thank you for all the great memories Cristiano. 

Man of Steel

Superman returns to the big screen in the summer of 2013 with the "Man of Steel". Yeah forget about the whole Superman Returns directed by Bryan Singer a few years ago. I personally loved the movie but the critics didn't. This time around, the movie is directed by Zack Snyder, famously known as the man behind 300 and Watchmen. Personally, I don't like Watchmen cause it was so slow and I didn't watch 300 cause it was too CGI. Although I read some reviews, they said it was a very good movie. For me, too much CGI in a movie, doesn't have the appeal. I think the movie was like 95% CGI. 

Okay, back to the Man of Steel, Zack Snyder also helmed another CGI movie called Sucker Punch last year. Yeah with all those ass kicking chicks. Bet most of you remember that (I mean the guys). It didn't get a very good response, so people are worried about him directing a Superman movie. The studios decided to bring in Christopher Nolan (yes!!!) as the producer for the movie. That definitely calmed the fans as everybody knows how good Nolan's movies are. Most recently for concluding the Batman trilogy, The Dark Knight Rises. 

I've seen most of Nolan's movies and his movies, never stop impresses me. You all have to watch The Prestige or Inception to name a few. Your minds will be blown away. I'm sure of that. He takes you in a journey and want viewers to understand the plots. Even in movie trailers he will leave the viewers wanting more. Check out the Man of Steel trailer released a few weeks ago. It has Nolan's brilliant mind written all over it. Enjoy. 

My 2012 Trips (so far...)

Recently I've had the privileged to travel overseas for holidays. I think most of us find it relaxing and very refreshing getting away from all the stress at work, especially the traffic here in KL (it's horrendous). So earlier this year, I traveled to Paris and London. It was a wholesome experience and I loved every minute of it. Here are some of the photos on my trip with my family. 

I took a flight to London via Air Asia X. Yeah, it was before they decided to cancel flights to Paris and London. You can imagine this post was long overdue with the flights. Surprisingly, the 14 hour flight was not bad. It was way beyond my expectation. It's a budget airline, you can't expect it like any other commercial flights. Get it? I arrived at Gatwick around 5.00am (it was cold too) and my bus to Paddington was at 7.15am. So I had about 2 hours to kill. What did I do? Yeah, grabbed myself a Costa Coffee. It was really good. Since most of the shops are closed, I decided to just chill and charge my phone at Costa Coffee and surf the net. Sadly there's no WiFi around the area. Had to use the normal data. 30 minutes cost me around rm300+. Mass!!! My family flew in by Etihad to London and they arrived around 9.00am. 

After a few hours in London, we head to Paris via Eurostar later in the evening. We reached Paris after a 2 hour plus train ride. While in Paris, we managed to see some of the exciting places. We had a short period of time there so we chose the more easier and shortest time of traveling. We went to Disneyland Paris. Yeah we decided to be a kid once awhile. Weather was -9 and very windy so we were freezing our asses off. Haha... Gotta say, I love the Star Wars ride. It was the bomb.  

Before we took a train ride back to London, we went to see some of the monumental places in Paris. You gotta see the Eiffel when you're there right? It'd be weird if it's your first time in Paris and you didn't catch a glimpse of it. That's just my opinion. We were having a blast trying to poke fun at the tower. Haha... 

Next stop, Arc de Triomphe. Had fun with the Underworld poster too. Haaa Kate oh Kate. We were rushing to catch our train back (home...haha) to London, so we just stopped by there for awhile and later, Ieja went for a shopping spree for her wedding (I think) along the Champs-Elysees. Though I didn't shop for anything, the view from Champs-Elysees was simply amazing. 

Before we head back, we stopped at Musee du Louvre (think I got it right). Made me remember the movie Da Vinci Code. Although we wanted to visit many other exciting places in Paris, but we just had a couple of days there. Oh well, it was a great time in Paris. Thank you for the memories and thank you to my sis, Ieja, for taking us around too. Not forgetting, Thea and her husband, for their lovely hospitality and 2 beautiful children. I swear, they're such cute and lovely kids (I'm not kidding!!!). 

Then, to the main event. Oh wait, not yet. Back in the UK, we head up north to Leicester by car. We rented a car at Europcar. My sis, Kak Nana, was super happy to be back at the place where she used to study. Although, I didn't see any tear in her eyes. Would've been great if she did have. Hehe... We stopped for lunch before we went shopping.

This happened after we went shopping. It was snowing!!! And might I add, it was heavily snowing in Leicester too. Haaa, my dream finally came true again. To see it snowing in the UK after 9 years of not coming back to my 2nd home (okay I'm being dramatic now). It was difficult to drive too cause of the heavy snow. But yeah, am not sure when will I experience the snowy conditions again though. So might as well we have fun right? Haha... 

Check out how bad the snow was. We had to push the van to parking okay! And no the photo below is NOT from a portrait. Was taken while we were driving further up north... to Manchester!!! 

Now, to the main event!!! Welcome to Old Trafford!!! It's been too long. YES!!! TOO LONG!!! I felt different when I saw the grandest stadium of them all. I've been a fan since 1992, been to the stadium back in 1995, then to return to it in 2012, just makes it a different whole lot of experience. I'm just gonna show you all the photos. 

Me with Chicharito+Rooney, Me with Nani, The Trinity. 

The museum and trophy cabinet, Sir Alex Ferguson's trophies and the late Sir Matt Busby. 

There can be ONLY ONE, Eric "The King" Cantona.  

The Busby Babes and the historic treble.  

More of the museum tour. 

And the stadium tour begins!!! Stretford End!!! 

The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand and the Theatre of Dreams pitch.  

Us all overlooking the Theatre of Dreams.  

The tunnel and the home team bench.  

The dressing room.  

It just had to be Cantona yet again and our tour guide. 

A tribute to the Munich Air Disaster. Gone, but not forgotten. 

Okay then the not so best part of the trip (just kidding). We head down to Liverpool after a night in Manchester. We went to Anfield and wanted to see what's so good about this team (hahaha)? Check out the photos. 

The famous Anfield, Kak Nana having some chips before the stadium tour and Me with the Shankly statue.  

The famous Liver-bird at the tunnel, the 5th Champions League trophy won at Istanbul and Us all overlooking The Kop.  

Our tour guides. She is hot!!! No, not the bald fella. Haha...  

A few days later, back in London, we head to another stadium. We went to the Emirates Stadium, home ground of Arsenal FC. Although we didn't go for the stadium tour, we went shopping at their megastore instead. Oh yeah, we went around the stadium to take some photos of statues. Check it out!!! 

The stadium was magnificent.  

Us messing around with Thierry Henry statue and Me with Tony Adams statue. 

Some of the random photos we took before we head back to reality (and stress) in KL. Oh by the way, we had teh tarik at a Malaysian restaurant called Jom Makan in Westfield London Shopping Mall. Still can't beat the mamak's teh tarik here but what was amazing is that, a British lady who made the teh tarik for us. And man, can she tarik the teh. Respect!!! 

Boot Room

At no other time of year does hope and expectation dominate the football landscape like it does at the start of the season. But with new teams, managers, signings and even footballs expecting to make their mark there is one battle that constantly evolves. The quest to find balance in making the lightest, most comfortable, protective, durable and performing football boot never stops, with manufactures always keen to steal a march on their fierce rivals.

Here, I assess the boots set to be worn by the Premier League’s biggest stars which may even help you out on your local pitch...

Predator LZ TRX

The design that revolutionised football boots nearly 20 years ago is still going strong and the number one choice for some of the finest attacking players in world football. Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard is just one player that has benefited from nearly two decades of development that have maintained the Predator’s attacking edge as well as provide a comfortable protective fit.

The science:

• New synthetic super-soft upper offers benefits of both leather and synthetic materials. Predator technology gives you five lethal zones to control the ball with every touch. Pre-moulded EVA sockliner and anti-slip inserts on the back for comfort and shock absorption
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Who else wears them?

Whether he stays at Arsenal or not, Robin van Persie will likely be scoring goals again from all angles next season, while Nani finds them useful on the Manchester United wings. Some chap called David Beckham likes them too, apparently...

Verdict: 10/10

F50 adizero TRX

Nike stole a march on adidas in terms of catering boots dedicated towards speed and response, and may still lead it, but the F50 is starting to prove a worthy rival. Lionel Messi continues to dazzle spectators around the world in them and the miCoach technology is an excellent addition for fans who want to learn from the very best in the business by studying performance statistics.

The science:

• Revolutionary Sprintskin single-layer synthetic upper for incredible ball feel and reduced weight.Sprintweb for excellent stability in high-speed moves.miCoach compatible.Traxion 2.0 FG stud configuration for maximum grip and acceleration on firm natural pitches.
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Who else wears them?

There is no lead in Gareth Bale’s boots storming down the Tottenham flank, with Manchester United winger, Ashey Young also a keen admirer of adidas’s speed boot.

Verdict: 8/10

CTR 360 Maestri III

It’s been given a makeover but Nike’s new Maestri has never been more ideal for the maestro that wants to dictate the pace of a match from midfield. It’s the weapon of choice for Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta and Arsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain so it appears to be strong in all areas of attack.

The science:

• Kanga-Lite synthetic material for an assured touch and durability. 3D control pad on the instep. Asymmetrical lacing system enlarges the area used to control the ball.
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Who else wears them?

Jack Wilshere hasn’t been seen on a football pitch since steel toe-caps were in, but it’s the boot of choice for one of England’s most talented midfielders. Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli doesn’t seem to struggle in them either judging by his scoring rate, which underlines the boot’s versatility.

Verdict: 9/10

Mercurial Vapor VIII

The boot for the speed demon that for over a decade has drawn rave reviews, with Cristiano Ronaldo a loyal servant to the design. Its thin layer gives the player a pace advantage as well as more precision striking the ball but it does offer very little protection and support to the foot and ankle.

The science:

• Teijin Microfiber upper – suede-like feel enhances touch. The material is lighter yet more durable than that used on previous incarnations of the boot. Stud placement designed to deliver explosive acceleration and quick change of direction. Glass chassis with double layer composite maximises energy transfer from forefoot to ground.
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Who else wears them?

Full-backs will be familiar with the heel design on the Vapor – especially when they are chasing pacey wingers like Theo Walcott and Aaron Lennon. It’s not all about the flanks though as forward Juan Mata has shone for Chelsea in the boots playing a more central role.

Verdict: 8/10

T90 Laser IV

Whether you’re a fox in the box (more Ruud van Nistelrooy than Francis Jeffers) or a long range expert, Nike’s T90 range has been a winner with strikers for many years now. Wayne Rooney scored 38 goals with the latest lighter version last season and the Manchester United star picked up just one domestic yellow card too, so they must also act as a calming influence…

The science:

• Shooting and swerve zones on the instep of the boot flex naturally as the foot makes contact with the ball. Shape correction foam along tongue and top of boot increases instep accuracy for a seamless strike of the ball. Remodelled studs maximise speed, increase agility and decrease chances of slipping.
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Who else wears them?

Danny Welbeck and Daniel Sturridge have earned international recognition in them while Fernando Torres will lead Chelsea’s defence of their European crown in T90s this term.

Verdict: 7/10

Speciali 3

Tailored in England and worn by a host of greats in the top flight for 20 years. Andy Carroll will be hoping they can inspire him just as they did fellow Geordie, Alan Shearer. But unless he can convince Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers to give him a go up front, Aston Villa’s Darren Bent is a safer bet to score more goals in them...

The science:

• The upper is constructed with premium soft leather which is extremely strong and lightweight, while still providing a comfortable fit and a great touch and feel on the ball. The conical HG plate provides improved traction and cutting for sharp turns while keeping the traditional conical shape. High performance EVA sockliner provides added cushioning and support that helps reduce stud pressure on the field. Large articulation flex channel in the forefoot to allow a natural movement and flex of the foot.
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Who else wears them?

John Terry - the Chelsea captain has adopted the classic boot since he broke through at Stamford Bridge 14 years ago. Even his defensive partner Gary Cahill wears them!

Rating: 8/10

Geometra

It’s all very well designing boots for pacey wingers and hungry strikers but what about the goalkeeper? Gloves may be a primary concern but even keepers need to kick the ball and the Geometra’s focus on producing accurate ball distribution gets a big thumbs up from Manchester City stopper Joe Hart.

The science:

• Memory foam pad for improved first touch and distribution. Silicon zones on the medial forefoot to provide enhanced grip, control and spin when striking the ball. Poron lined collar which offers improved cushioning to reduce the impact on the foot and to minimise the risk of injury.
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Who else wears them?

It’s not only good enough for England’s No. 1 but also his heir to the throne, Jack Butland. The Birmingham keeper shone for Team GB at the Olympics this summer and appears just as confident in his overall game than Hart wearing Umbro’s Geometras.

Rating: 7/10

evoSPEED1

The Usain Bolt boot. The eloquent evoSPEED1 are a carbon copy of the same spikes the Jamaican sprint king sported to burn up the track at London’s Olympic Stadium. Perhaps the double-triple gold medallist will get to lace up a pair when he goes for that ‘dream’ trial at Old Trafford...

The science:

• The anatomically engineered lightweight one-piece outsole provides stability and support, utilizing high-tech materials to minimize weight and to maximize its flexibility and reactivity. The evoSPEED 1 features an external heel counter which secures an excellent heel fit and the new PUMA evoAptoLast which provides an industry leading fit.
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Who else wears them?

Sergio Ageuro was signed up by Puma last season with the boots going down in Manchester City’s history when he scored THAT goal on the last day of the season to clinch the title.

Rating: 9/10

Hydrastrike II

The new kids on the block (well, sort of). Under Armour arguably pioneered compression clothing worn by players in the Premier League and now the American sports giants are out to officially make their mark in England as Tottenham’s kit suppliers. Spurs defender Michael Dawson will be kitted out head to toe in their gear.

The science:

• H20i water intelligence technology keeps performance leather drier, longer—reducing moisture weight and increasing ball feel. Corespeed chassis supercharges the foot’s natural motion, flexibility, and acceleration, delivering superior mobility on the field. Micro G cushioning delivers light, ultra-responsive, low-to-the-ground performance for better, natural stability, and comfort.
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Who else wears them?

Bobby Zamora faces stiff competition for a starting place this season at QPR and he’ll be banking on these boots to the business for him... just as they did in 2010 when he struck 19 goals for Fulham.

Rating: 8/10

Thunder-BOLT

So beauty finally triumphed over The Beast. The beauty of Usain Bolt’s grace, the beauty of his style and the beauty of his sheer power and pace.

And the sheer magnificence of a great Barnum and Bailey showman able to put on the big performance when it mattered most — on the night when he was confirmed once again as the fastest man on the planet. And a winning time of 9.63sec, the quickest anywhere since he set his 100 metres world record of 9.58 in Berlin in 2009. And a time that had an 80,000 crowd holding its breath as old Lightning Bolt, the nearest thing to a bullet train, came accelerating through the field to take his fourth Olympic gold medal.

It was too much for his stunningly talented Jamaican club-mate Yohan Blake, aka The Beast, and the Athens 2004 champion Justin Gatlin. Bolt had given Blake his nickname as the 22-year-old produced a series of outstanding performances over the last couple of years that marked him down as heir apparent to the great man.

Blake went into the race as the main threat to Bolt’s almost regal status in his sport. The boy from Montego Bay had beaten Bolt in the 100m and 200m in the Jamaican trials after claiming Bolt’s 100m world crown following his Daegu disqualification last summer. The man from Trelawney had called it a wake-up call.

It was more than that, though, as Bolt hadn’t beaten his training partner in nearly two years over 100m. But neither Blake nor the rest of the classiest field ever assembled for a 100m final could prevent the double Beijing gold medallist becoming only the second man after Carl Lewis to retain his Olympic crown. Bolt won in a new Olympic record after his 9.69 in Beijing. Silver went to Blake in 9.75 as he equalled his personal best, bronze to Gatlin in 9.79.

Incredibly, all eight finalists qualified in times under 10 seconds — and with seven doing the same in the final as well it was a new mark for the Olympics. It would have been a clean sweep but Asafa Powell pulled up with a recurrence of a long-term groin injury.

No one had been ruling out a world record, either. But this time Bolt could not quite lay it on for us. The stadium had been packed for the most high-profile event of the Games — not a seat to spare and the Press tribunes overflowing with Olympic volunteers who all wanted to say: “I was there.” And they weren’t let down.

Because of his height and the time it takes to get out of the blocks, 6ft 5in Bolt always gives his rivals a chance early on. And so it was that Tyson Gay and Blake broke quickest. It took a huge effort for Bolt to draw level at 50m. But this is where the turbo-charger kicked in . . . and he was away. The crowd knew it and the noise level doubled in a stadium that was already breaking every late-night disturbance regulation. By the end he was a yard clear as the rest of the field scattered in his wake. Then he was down on his knees to kiss the track, back up on his feet to do his famous Lightning pose and then off on a lap of honour with Blake. The atmosphere inside the stadium was as electric as ever.