Well it's time to come home. We're on the bus on the way to the airport. Everyone's really down about yesterdays performance and exit from WC2010. However a few guys were feeling so sick last night they were still in the wc at 20:10.
At least one consolation for me is that I am not about to get picked on by the press. No game, no cap, no blame - perhaps.
Anyway the early exit means that Mrs D's possible TV opportunity has gone - victim of the programme makers austerity measures - allegedly.
We're still on for Skeggy next week. Might even have a run up to Mablethorpe and the naturist beach at North Cotes a few miles away. Nobody saw me with my kit on in South Africa so people won't recognise me with my kit off in Lincolnshire.
Fabio's future won't be decided for a couple of weeks.
Whatever happens we're back to football business with a friendly against Hungary in August. Then European Championship qualification matches from September. Looking forward to the game against Wales next March. Mrs D told me last night that there is a young lad called Dyfan from some place called Llandybie who thinks he knows what I look like - but he could be getting me confused with someone else with the same name. Maybe I will see him at the game and he can ask me for my autograph - it will be worth a fortune one day.
Thanks for reading my diary - it's been fun writing it for you.
Look out for The Spurs winning the Champions League next season - especially if we can keep Harry at The Lane. Keep your hands off England!!
Monday, 28 June 2010
Friday, 25 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #15
Well it's been a while - but eventually managed to get some time to write again. The sense of relief in the camp is clear. The performance on Wednesday was much better and the fans responded as well.
The gaffa seems more relaxed - hugs, back slapping and high fives after the game. He has even allowed us to have a couple of beers on an evening. The darts crowd has now taken "Don Fabio's" photo down from the bulls eye.
Upsy Daisy had a good game on Wednesday - some really great tackles and a solid all round performance. Looks like I'm gonna have to wait a while to get my chance. Carra's available again after suspension and Ledley's recovered from his groin injury so the gaffa will have a tough decision who to partner with JT.
Full training session in Rustenburg today. We've been practising penalties - it just can't happen again - can it? We're feeling pretty confident about beating the old enemy - for example do you know about the curse of Eurovision - no country that has won Eurovision has gone on to win the WC later that same year! Here are some more reasons why we're confident Goal.com
Mrs D has kept me posted with reaction and news from home. She watched the game on Wednesday with the cocker spaniels. Funny though how these so called pundits can't seem to agree - see what ScotStevo from Ireland has to say about the coverage from BBC & RTE in the Daily Record
The WAGS at home are all keeping in touch and starting to think about plans for coming out to Sun City. Mrs D's been shopping for new outfits - hope she's got something she can wear in South Africa and Skegness.
I'm a bit concerned that Mrs D is getting into this WAG life too much. There are rumours that she is about to be offered some deal to appear in a TV reality show and I haven't even been of the bench yet - more news about this when she fesses up. She was certainly disappointed not to have been asked to take part in the WAGs "Come Dine With Me" Have to admit all this is making me a bit unsettled. Can't believe she might become more well known and recognisable than me.
No more blogging until Monday - have to focus now.
The gaffa seems more relaxed - hugs, back slapping and high fives after the game. He has even allowed us to have a couple of beers on an evening. The darts crowd has now taken "Don Fabio's" photo down from the bulls eye.
Upsy Daisy had a good game on Wednesday - some really great tackles and a solid all round performance. Looks like I'm gonna have to wait a while to get my chance. Carra's available again after suspension and Ledley's recovered from his groin injury so the gaffa will have a tough decision who to partner with JT.
Full training session in Rustenburg today. We've been practising penalties - it just can't happen again - can it? We're feeling pretty confident about beating the old enemy - for example do you know about the curse of Eurovision - no country that has won Eurovision has gone on to win the WC later that same year! Here are some more reasons why we're confident Goal.com
Mrs D has kept me posted with reaction and news from home. She watched the game on Wednesday with the cocker spaniels. Funny though how these so called pundits can't seem to agree - see what ScotStevo from Ireland has to say about the coverage from BBC & RTE in the Daily Record
The WAGS at home are all keeping in touch and starting to think about plans for coming out to Sun City. Mrs D's been shopping for new outfits - hope she's got something she can wear in South Africa and Skegness.
I'm a bit concerned that Mrs D is getting into this WAG life too much. There are rumours that she is about to be offered some deal to appear in a TV reality show and I haven't even been of the bench yet - more news about this when she fesses up. She was certainly disappointed not to have been asked to take part in the WAGs "Come Dine With Me" Have to admit all this is making me a bit unsettled. Can't believe she might become more well known and recognisable than me.
No more blogging until Monday - have to focus now.
Monday, 21 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #14
Well Don Fabio has decided that Upsy Daisy has got the nod for Wednesday's game. Maybe he will trip up getting on the plane tomorrow - will see what I can do to help.
Looks like we will be training at Rustenburg tomorrow morning before flying down to Port Elizabeth as we've been told we can't train on the match pitch.
The gaffa has been disappointed by comments JT made to the press yesterday - tensions are running a bit high. Lamps has tried to defuse things today. Just seems like there's a power struggle going on. Decided to keep my head down.
So this might be my last blog for a couple of days. The next one will probably be on Thursday - but where from that's the big question.
Hope you all enjoy the game on Wednesday - we'll be trying our best to put in a good shift and get through the group stage. Don't really want to even think about all the stick we'll get next season if we don't get through. Probably worse than Ronaldo got when he had Rooney sent off - the cheeky winker.
Mrs D said it's really muggy tonight back in blighty. Also she's having a problem with the internet connection, she can't get the wireless to work - it's driving her crazy. Really glad I'm not there. The cocker spaniels are keeping out of her way as well.
Right I'm off to lie in wait for Upsy Daisy and see if I can't help him to have some sort of mishap.
Looks like we will be training at Rustenburg tomorrow morning before flying down to Port Elizabeth as we've been told we can't train on the match pitch.
The gaffa has been disappointed by comments JT made to the press yesterday - tensions are running a bit high. Lamps has tried to defuse things today. Just seems like there's a power struggle going on. Decided to keep my head down.
So this might be my last blog for a couple of days. The next one will probably be on Thursday - but where from that's the big question.
Hope you all enjoy the game on Wednesday - we'll be trying our best to put in a good shift and get through the group stage. Don't really want to even think about all the stick we'll get next season if we don't get through. Probably worse than Ronaldo got when he had Rooney sent off - the cheeky winker.
Mrs D said it's really muggy tonight back in blighty. Also she's having a problem with the internet connection, she can't get the wireless to work - it's driving her crazy. Really glad I'm not there. The cocker spaniels are keeping out of her way as well.
Right I'm off to lie in wait for Upsy Daisy and see if I can't help him to have some sort of mishap.
Sunday, 20 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #13
Training behind closed doors today. I tried to close and lock the doors before Matt Upsy Daisy got there but his team mate Greeny dropped the key at the last minute. So I will have to come up with some other way to make sure he's not available on Wednesday. Only one more training session tomorrow.
Lamps has his mind on other things at the moment however - Chrsitine Bleakley just secured a transfer from BBC to ITV. She's more in demnad than he is. What has that Chiles bloke got anyway?
Heard Harry Redknapp on Radio 5 this morning saying that Upsy Daisy was probably ahead of me in Fabio's thinking simply because he was selected originally. Lets just wait and see.
There's a full squad meeting tonight with Fabio and the management - don't know what it's about though.- probably summat to do with football. We'll probably watch the video of the Algeria match and have an open and frank discussion. Hopefully nobody will be sent home like Nicolas Anelka.
Let's not forget other countries are struggling too - remember France, Germany and Italy. All have had unexpected results.
We go to Port Elizabeth on Tuesday and play at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium at 3.00pm UK time on Wednesday - our WC could all be over by 5.45pm. Hopefully my mates at the Leyburn Cricket Club will be taking the day off work to watch the game.
Lamps has his mind on other things at the moment however - Chrsitine Bleakley just secured a transfer from BBC to ITV. She's more in demnad than he is. What has that Chiles bloke got anyway?
Heard Harry Redknapp on Radio 5 this morning saying that Upsy Daisy was probably ahead of me in Fabio's thinking simply because he was selected originally. Lets just wait and see.
There's a full squad meeting tonight with Fabio and the management - don't know what it's about though.- probably summat to do with football. We'll probably watch the video of the Algeria match and have an open and frank discussion. Hopefully nobody will be sent home like Nicolas Anelka.
Let's not forget other countries are struggling too - remember France, Germany and Italy. All have had unexpected results.
We go to Port Elizabeth on Tuesday and play at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium at 3.00pm UK time on Wednesday - our WC could all be over by 5.45pm. Hopefully my mates at the Leyburn Cricket Club will be taking the day off work to watch the game.
Saturday, 19 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #12
Not good headlines in the press today - as we expected. The gaffa read us the riot act last night. We all know the performance and the result were not good enough. Everyone who played tried hard but things just didn't work out for us.
Surprised to hear the fans jeering us after the game - especially since the boss said that we wouldn't be having any booze while we were here. Just goes to show he doesn't know everything.
Spoke to Mrs D after the game - she said that most of the WAGs are keeping their heads down for while. Although a couple have already sneaked into South Africa Mail Online
Carra getting booked might turn out to be good for me - really now hoping I will get a game on Wednesday - but I probably won't find out until just before we leave for the ground..
Still keeping options open about Butlins at Skegness. If we have an early exit from WC then we will save some cash as Mrs D won't be coming over to South Africa. With the money we save we can upgrade to a Premium Gold Apartment.
Spent the day in Cape Town relaxing and meeting fans around the city - trying to build some bridges.
We're on the bus right now and expect to get back to Rustenburg about 11.00pm. Everyone's a bit quiet - it's really weird.
Start work tomorrow on getting things right for Wednesday.
Surprised to hear the fans jeering us after the game - especially since the boss said that we wouldn't be having any booze while we were here. Just goes to show he doesn't know everything.
Spoke to Mrs D after the game - she said that most of the WAGs are keeping their heads down for while. Although a couple have already sneaked into South Africa Mail Online
Carra getting booked might turn out to be good for me - really now hoping I will get a game on Wednesday - but I probably won't find out until just before we leave for the ground..
Spent the day in Cape Town relaxing and meeting fans around the city - trying to build some bridges.
We're on the bus right now and expect to get back to Rustenburg about 11.00pm. Everyone's a bit quiet - it's really weird.
Start work tomorrow on getting things right for Wednesday.
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #11
The Spurs lads took on all comers at Texas Hold Em poker last night. At one point I had almost more clubs in my hand that Amelia Heskey has played for. We're up a few Rands - especially from little SWP who couldn't quite get the hang of the game. Meanwhile Glen Johnson is now leading the darts tournament - although Jamesy might have something to say about that. It's really just a bit of handbags between them.
Carra's bought his kids a couple of vuvuzelas - yes, that's right. He kept most of the lads awake last night trying to get a tune out of the blooming things.
The cat's out of the bag about the squad's Soprano nicknames Metro Online - being a Bruce Springsteen fan I like to be Silvio Dante (played by Steve Van Zandt from the E Street Band). Anyway Mr Beckenbauer just be careful what you say or you might end up sleeping with the fishes in a pair of concrete football boots.
The freshly washed kit has gone off to Cape Town and we'll be going tomorrow morning. I tried to hide Matty Upson's shirts so I would have more chance of playing but Golden Balls in his role as Mr Fixer checked all the kit as it was loaded on the bus - unfortunately for me he spotted that there were some numbers missing - didn't know he could count.
Managed to get another round of golf in this afternoon with some of the lads. The picture in the Metro article above shows Roono has written some cryptic messages on his golfing boots. What it doesn't show is that he has also writtenh L & R on the inside.
Just been watching Bafana Bafana get beat by Uruguay - shame but they looked outclassed. And what a good result by the Swiss.
Right off to fill in my wall chart and then bed.
Carra's bought his kids a couple of vuvuzelas - yes, that's right. He kept most of the lads awake last night trying to get a tune out of the blooming things.
The cat's out of the bag about the squad's Soprano nicknames Metro Online - being a Bruce Springsteen fan I like to be Silvio Dante (played by Steve Van Zandt from the E Street Band). Anyway Mr Beckenbauer just be careful what you say or you might end up sleeping with the fishes in a pair of concrete football boots.
The freshly washed kit has gone off to Cape Town and we'll be going tomorrow morning. I tried to hide Matty Upson's shirts so I would have more chance of playing but Golden Balls in his role as Mr Fixer checked all the kit as it was loaded on the bus - unfortunately for me he spotted that there were some numbers missing - didn't know he could count.
Managed to get another round of golf in this afternoon with some of the lads. The picture in the Metro article above shows Roono has written some cryptic messages on his golfing boots. What it doesn't show is that he has also writtenh L & R on the inside.
Just been watching Bafana Bafana get beat by Uruguay - shame but they looked outclassed. And what a good result by the Swiss.
Right off to fill in my wall chart and then bed.
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #10
Hands up everyone who remembers Steve Hodge. Yes, that Steve Hodge - played for Notts Forest and Spurs as well as six other clubs and 24 times for England. A man renowned for footballing knowledge - as here he calls on Fabio to pick Jamesy and me against Algeria on Friday - Telegraph Online Anyway he's certainly gone up in my estimation. Hope the gaffa takes notice.
Sunny, cold and windy in Rustenburg today. Resemebles Stoke on winters afternoon at the Victoria Ground.
Yesterday me and Matty Upson went to off to visit a local orphanage near Rustenburg. Spurs have paid for one of the bungalows that houses up to eight orphans. I have sponsored one of the kids (Aubrey) for the last three years and it was really great to see him. Gave him a signed England shirt - managed to find one that wasn't covered in crap from the drain leak - although it does have some dodgy autographs. Here's a report from the Mail Online.
Couple of pretty dull games earlier today. Have been looking forward to watching the best South American team and North Korea tonight. I realy love Brazilians but every time I mention them Mrs D gives me one of her knowing looks. Korea have been playing OK but as I'm writing they've just conceded a goal - whatever happens by the end of the game it will have been a close shave.
Spoke to Mrs D this evening and she had heard me interviewd on Talk Sport - the cocker spaniels went crazy when they heard my voice - one of them even did a whoopsy on the kitchen floor.
Mrs D thinks she will be watching the match on Friday by herself.
Card school tonight before cocoa and bed.
Nite nite.
Sunny, cold and windy in Rustenburg today. Resemebles Stoke on winters afternoon at the Victoria Ground.
Couple of pretty dull games earlier today. Have been looking forward to watching the best South American team and North Korea tonight. I realy love Brazilians but every time I mention them Mrs D gives me one of her knowing looks. Korea have been playing OK but as I'm writing they've just conceded a goal - whatever happens by the end of the game it will have been a close shave.
Spoke to Mrs D this evening and she had heard me interviewd on Talk Sport - the cocker spaniels went crazy when they heard my voice - one of them even did a whoopsy on the kitchen floor.
Mrs D thinks she will be watching the match on Friday by herself.
Card school tonight before cocoa and bed.
Nite nite.
Monday, 14 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #9
Bright sunny day in Rustenburg - unlike other WC locations where it was chucking it down and cold. At least we got the choice of hotel and training camp right.
Back to training - Roono decided to sit round the pool instead - claiming to have a knock on his ankle. Ash had his usual day off as well - can't seem to play and then train immediately afterwards - molly coddled if you ask me. My mate Ledders is really struggling with his groin injury. I think he needs to take his time and make sure he recovers well.
Serious darts tournament going on in the squad - 501 is the game of choice. David James is practicing every opportunity he gets and is leading at the moment. Mmmmm 501? the number of minutes before Amelia Heskey scores his next England goal? and unless Matty Upson has a sudden injury it'll be 501 minutes before I get a game - that gets me on in the second half of the final.
It seems the pundits don't think I'm gonna get a game or play much part - even when I do get a mention they always add that I am uncapped and inexperienced.
Have to admit the Germans looked good yesterday and seem to be the team to beat right now. Rumour has it that they have been using the WC ball in the Bundesliga since last December. Clever beggars.
Sat with some of the lads to watch the Italians tonight - they got out of jail and I think will still be hard to beat. Although we saw some of their usual amateur dramatics when they allegedly went down injured. They've got it off to a tee.
Had a problem with the drains at the hotel today and the kit room was flooded with foul water and other stuff. Not sure what actually happened - didn't fancy going to look to be honest. Anyway the kit that was supposed to be on the way to Cape Town for Friday's game against Algeria had to be washed all over again - hmm perhaps I don't fancy wearing any of that. Think I'll get down to Sportz Kitz R Us and buy myself a couple of replica kits to be on the safe side.
As well as picking a team in the squad sweep we also had a guess how many red cards there would be.in the whole tournament. I went for ten - blimey already four in the first eleven games.
Just had a text from Mrs D - she's watching Match of The Day on BBC2 - got a mention from Alan Shearer. Mind you he said that I didn't have much pace - that's a bit rich coming from someone who never left the six yard box.
Right, off to bedroom to play FIFA World Cup on the Wii - I'm the England skipper and scored the winning goal in the last game.
Nite nite.
Back to training - Roono decided to sit round the pool instead - claiming to have a knock on his ankle. Ash had his usual day off as well - can't seem to play and then train immediately afterwards - molly coddled if you ask me. My mate Ledders is really struggling with his groin injury. I think he needs to take his time and make sure he recovers well.
Serious darts tournament going on in the squad - 501 is the game of choice. David James is practicing every opportunity he gets and is leading at the moment. Mmmmm 501? the number of minutes before Amelia Heskey scores his next England goal? and unless Matty Upson has a sudden injury it'll be 501 minutes before I get a game - that gets me on in the second half of the final.
It seems the pundits don't think I'm gonna get a game or play much part - even when I do get a mention they always add that I am uncapped and inexperienced.
Have to admit the Germans looked good yesterday and seem to be the team to beat right now. Rumour has it that they have been using the WC ball in the Bundesliga since last December. Clever beggars.
Sat with some of the lads to watch the Italians tonight - they got out of jail and I think will still be hard to beat. Although we saw some of their usual amateur dramatics when they allegedly went down injured. They've got it off to a tee.
Had a problem with the drains at the hotel today and the kit room was flooded with foul water and other stuff. Not sure what actually happened - didn't fancy going to look to be honest. Anyway the kit that was supposed to be on the way to Cape Town for Friday's game against Algeria had to be washed all over again - hmm perhaps I don't fancy wearing any of that. Think I'll get down to Sportz Kitz R Us and buy myself a couple of replica kits to be on the safe side.
As well as picking a team in the squad sweep we also had a guess how many red cards there would be.in the whole tournament. I went for ten - blimey already four in the first eleven games.
Just had a text from Mrs D - she's watching Match of The Day on BBC2 - got a mention from Alan Shearer. Mind you he said that I didn't have much pace - that's a bit rich coming from someone who never left the six yard box.
Right, off to bedroom to play FIFA World Cup on the Wii - I'm the England skipper and scored the winning goal in the last game.
Nite nite.
Sunday, 13 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #8
Didn't get chance to write my blog last night. We've been having the usual post match analysis as you can imagine. The lads all feel that it was two points lost - but it's not a total disaster.
We got off to a great start with an early goal from Stevie G. The rest of the first half was fairly even and then Greeny was caught out by a pot luck shot from Clint Dempsey. I'm not gonna say anything here about what happened - that wouldn't be fair on Greeny - needless to say all the lads and the gaffa are fully behind him - as was the ball as it happens.
Second half we had some chances to win the game but didn't take them and Greeny made a super save from Altidore to keep the scores level.
My brothers met up with some guys from Hull (where Andy plays) and they are moving in with them later today - they've got a villa near Johannesburg. So I will get my bed back.
Spoke to Mrs D before going to sleep last night - tried using Skype instead of just the phone. It was OK - picture was a bit jerky though. She went to Coleen's BBQ - here's a link to an artcle in the Daily Mail about it. They had a great time but missed Wayno's cooking - they got professional caterers in to make life easier.
They watched the game on a plasma TV, enjoyed a few beers and some sausages and hamburgers.
Mrs D said she doesn't know yet what she's doing for the Algeria game - waiting to see what offers come in.
It was pretty subdued on the bus back to the hotel. Some joker plugged their iPod in to the speakers and we got "Careless Hands" by Des O'Connor, "Fingers and Thumbs" by Erasure and "Great Balls of Fire" by Jerry Lee Lewis. Greeny took it all in good spirit - put his head in his hands and promptly dropped it.
Had a cup of cocoa and then off to bed by midnight.
We'll be watching Algeria v Slovenia at lunchtime. Hoping Fabio will get the "tictacs" right for Friday.
Speak again soon.
We got off to a great start with an early goal from Stevie G. The rest of the first half was fairly even and then Greeny was caught out by a pot luck shot from Clint Dempsey. I'm not gonna say anything here about what happened - that wouldn't be fair on Greeny - needless to say all the lads and the gaffa are fully behind him - as was the ball as it happens.
Second half we had some chances to win the game but didn't take them and Greeny made a super save from Altidore to keep the scores level.
My brothers met up with some guys from Hull (where Andy plays) and they are moving in with them later today - they've got a villa near Johannesburg. So I will get my bed back.
They watched the game on a plasma TV, enjoyed a few beers and some sausages and hamburgers.
Mrs D said she doesn't know yet what she's doing for the Algeria game - waiting to see what offers come in.
It was pretty subdued on the bus back to the hotel. Some joker plugged their iPod in to the speakers and we got "Careless Hands" by Des O'Connor, "Fingers and Thumbs" by Erasure and "Great Balls of Fire" by Jerry Lee Lewis. Greeny took it all in good spirit - put his head in his hands and promptly dropped it.
Had a cup of cocoa and then off to bed by midnight.
We'll be watching Algeria v Slovenia at lunchtime. Hoping Fabio will get the "tictacs" right for Friday.
Speak again soon.
Friday, 11 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #7
Didn't sleep very well - three in a bed was actually two too many. Not sure how long Andy and Kev will be with me. Had to sneak them some breakfast this morning.
Training this afternoon - more running and jumping up and down. I like training - especially being able to wear those brighly coloured bibs - I was in yellow today.
The gaffa had a press conference this afternoon - and still no clue about the starting line up. Except he did say that Gareth's likely to be on the bench from the start.
We all watched the South Africa v Mexico game this afternoon. It was an OK match with a great goal opening goal. Fair result in the end. Getting ready to watch Uruguay v France - kick off in a few minutes.
Spoke with Mrs D today and she is getting excited about tomorrow. Going to the Rooney's for a WC BBC. That's a World Cup BBQ - not a BBQ in their toilet.
Can't stop on long - "Aero" saving me a seat.
Early night then - think the brothers will have to sleep on the floor. Need my rest tonight for the big day tomorrow.
Bye for now - and thanks for all your good luck messages that coming.
Training this afternoon - more running and jumping up and down. I like training - especially being able to wear those brighly coloured bibs - I was in yellow today.
The gaffa had a press conference this afternoon - and still no clue about the starting line up. Except he did say that Gareth's likely to be on the bench from the start.
We all watched the South Africa v Mexico game this afternoon. It was an OK match with a great goal opening goal. Fair result in the end. Getting ready to watch Uruguay v France - kick off in a few minutes.
Spoke with Mrs D today and she is getting excited about tomorrow. Going to the Rooney's for a WC BBC. That's a World Cup BBQ - not a BBQ in their toilet.
Can't stop on long - "Aero" saving me a seat.
Early night then - think the brothers will have to sleep on the floor. Need my rest tonight for the big day tomorrow.
Bye for now - and thanks for all your good luck messages that coming.
Thursday, 10 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #6
Now, I know that Ferdz is a very influential member of the squad and a great skipper. But sometimes players can get too wrapped up in their own publicity and self importance. I don't mean to be disrespectful to the big man but.... The TV in my room has a clever gizmo that lets me see what pay per view films have been watched since the squad checked in - here's the list and you make up your own minds
Blame It On Rio
Rio Bravo
Rio Grande
Rio Lobo
Road To Rio
Girl From Rio
Flying Down To Rio
Lost In Rio
Rio Conchos
I mean come on, the man really needs to get out more on his crutches and get some proper perspective on his contribution to life and the universe. Me, I'm gonna be watching Dawson's Creek tonight.
Closed training session today. James Milner still not feeling well so he had yet another day off and Ledley did more gym work - shame about his chronically dodgy knees - but it might turn out to be good for me. If Fabio has to choose between me and Matty Upson then I'm a shoo in.
It was off to Sun City after training for a round of golf. Last time I played I had trouble getting the ball through the door in the wooden windmill. Still, I managed to get round without losing my balls. Unlike Glen Johnson who hit the wrong ball off the fairway.
By the way Mrs D just for you and our cocker spaniels - here's a link to my FA Quickfire Q&A for YouTube Quickfire Q&A
Only two more sleeps until we start our campaign. The gaffa knows the starting line up but hasn't told us yet. My money's on JT and Ledley at the back. Hopefully I might get a run out at some point on Saturday - would be great to get my first cap at last. Even better to get the 2010 version of the one in the piccy.
By the way - it seems FIFA are reading my blog as their website has now been updated to show me instead of Rio. Thanks Sep. FIFA Website
They also have a pic of me in training quality.
That's it for tonight - sleep well. Not sure how much sleep I will get with Andy and Kev sharing the bed.
I'm getting really giddy.
Blame It On Rio
Rio Bravo
Rio Grande
Rio Lobo
Road To Rio
Girl From Rio
Flying Down To Rio
Lost In Rio
Rio Conchos
I mean come on, the man really needs to get out more on his crutches and get some proper perspective on his contribution to life and the universe. Me, I'm gonna be watching Dawson's Creek tonight.
Closed training session today. James Milner still not feeling well so he had yet another day off and Ledley did more gym work - shame about his chronically dodgy knees - but it might turn out to be good for me. If Fabio has to choose between me and Matty Upson then I'm a shoo in.
By the way Mrs D just for you and our cocker spaniels - here's a link to my FA Quickfire Q&A for YouTube Quickfire Q&A
Only two more sleeps until we start our campaign. The gaffa knows the starting line up but hasn't told us yet. My money's on JT and Ledley at the back. Hopefully I might get a run out at some point on Saturday - would be great to get my first cap at last. Even better to get the 2010 version of the one in the piccy.
By the way - it seems FIFA are reading my blog as their website has now been updated to show me instead of Rio. Thanks Sep. FIFA Website
 |
| Look at that concentration! |
They also have a pic of me in training quality.
That's it for tonight - sleep well. Not sure how much sleep I will get with Andy and Kev sharing the bed.
I'm getting really giddy.
Wednesday, 9 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #5
Oh dear more tension today as the gaffa has a right go at the press photographers. Relationships with the photographers and TV crews seem a bit strained. That's a shame - I need pics of me out there so I don't get mistaken for that Question of Sport bloke again or worse still Les Dawson.
Could do with a photo sending to FIFA as well and for the FA to remind them that I am now a proper member of the England squad. They need to get their website updated - still have Rio in the squad list. So come on FIFA get it sorted FIFA Website
In case you haven't already picked it up from the papers the gaffa is a bit of a disciplinarian. We need to be smartly dressed and no mobile phones to be used at meal times. It's a bit like being back at school in Northallerton - but discipline is important so we don't complain - well not publicly anyway.
Talking about being smartly dressed - those M&S suits are a bit of alright. Will be able to wear it when I get back home. If I leave the badge on I can even get tax relief on the cleaning bills - result. Even George Osborne can't stop that - well not yet at least.
I'm getting a bit worried about my blog - not sure Fabio will be too impressed if he finds out. I know our other halves back home are keeping a check on what's going on and read all the blogs and news stories. It's a bit like the "WAGs dogging the tale".
More training today. I quite like all that running and jumping up and down, stretching and waving my arms around - Training Video
The gaffa said we needed to practise our penalties. He showed us a video to help Crouchy and Defoe with their synchronised diving.
My two brothers, Andy and Kevin are arriving tomorrow. They haven't found anywhere to stay so they're gonna bus it up to Rustenburg and I'm gonna sneak em in to my room. There's a massive bed in my room, in fact you could get the whole back four in at the same time. Anyway me, Andy and Kev are gonna sleep top and tail - just like we did as kids.
That's all for today folks.
Could do with a photo sending to FIFA as well and for the FA to remind them that I am now a proper member of the England squad. They need to get their website updated - still have Rio in the squad list. So come on FIFA get it sorted FIFA Website
In case you haven't already picked it up from the papers the gaffa is a bit of a disciplinarian. We need to be smartly dressed and no mobile phones to be used at meal times. It's a bit like being back at school in Northallerton - but discipline is important so we don't complain - well not publicly anyway.
Talking about being smartly dressed - those M&S suits are a bit of alright. Will be able to wear it when I get back home. If I leave the badge on I can even get tax relief on the cleaning bills - result. Even George Osborne can't stop that - well not yet at least.
I'm getting a bit worried about my blog - not sure Fabio will be too impressed if he finds out. I know our other halves back home are keeping a check on what's going on and read all the blogs and news stories. It's a bit like the "WAGs dogging the tale".
More training today. I quite like all that running and jumping up and down, stretching and waving my arms around - Training Video
The gaffa said we needed to practise our penalties. He showed us a video to help Crouchy and Defoe with their synchronised diving.
My two brothers, Andy and Kevin are arriving tomorrow. They haven't found anywhere to stay so they're gonna bus it up to Rustenburg and I'm gonna sneak em in to my room. There's a massive bed in my room, in fact you could get the whole back four in at the same time. Anyway me, Andy and Kev are gonna sleep top and tail - just like we did as kids.
That's all for today folks.
Tuesday, 8 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #4
It's been a bit tense around camp England today. None of us covered ourselves in glory yesterday and the press and Talk Sport have had loads to say about the performance. We're all getting fed up of hearing "can Lamps and Stevie G play in the same team", "can Roono keep a lid on his temper". The answer is yes to both. So just get behind the team.
There's a great atmosphere in the squad and we're all confident we can do well. I'm really chuffed I got a couple of quotes in the quality papers today - The Guardian and The Telegraph. Mrs D's started a scrap book.
Put up my Daily Mirror World Cup 2010 wall chart this morning - can't wait to start filling it in on Friday. Got different coloured pens and everything.
We've got a sweep going and we drew our teams last night - felt really lucky - I got two teams - New Zealand and Honduras - don't feel so lucky now. Might still put a couple of bob on each, you know just in case. The odds are really good each one is 2000/1.
The Gaffa gave us a bit of a pep talk after training.
"Righta fellas, backa home they'lla be'a thinkin about'a us. We are'a so far awaya. So'a backa home they'lla be'a really'a behind us, in a everya game'a we play'a. They'lla share'a every'a goala Rooney is'a scoring. We will'a still heara them'a roaring'a. And we'lla give'a all a we've a gotta give'a for those'a folks'a back'a home. Avanti "
Well it went something like that, and went on a bit longer. Funny, but I thought I had heard it before somewhere. Maybe all managers use the same speeches.
Had a safari trip in to the bush this afternoon to see the wildlife. We saw three lions (see what I did there); giraffe's that took a keen interest in Crouchy; and buffalo with an uncanny likeness to Roono.
That's it for today - only four more sleeps before we whup the Yanks.
There's a great atmosphere in the squad and we're all confident we can do well. I'm really chuffed I got a couple of quotes in the quality papers today - The Guardian and The Telegraph. Mrs D's started a scrap book.
We've got a sweep going and we drew our teams last night - felt really lucky - I got two teams - New Zealand and Honduras - don't feel so lucky now. Might still put a couple of bob on each, you know just in case. The odds are really good each one is 2000/1.
The Gaffa gave us a bit of a pep talk after training.
"Righta fellas, backa home they'lla be'a thinkin about'a us. We are'a so far awaya. So'a backa home they'lla be'a really'a behind us, in a everya game'a we play'a. They'lla share'a every'a goala Rooney is'a scoring. We will'a still heara them'a roaring'a. And we'lla give'a all a we've a gotta give'a for those'a folks'a back'a home. Avanti "
Well it went something like that, and went on a bit longer. Funny, but I thought I had heard it before somewhere. Maybe all managers use the same speeches.
Had a safari trip in to the bush this afternoon to see the wildlife. We saw three lions (see what I did there); giraffe's that took a keen interest in Crouchy; and buffalo with an uncanny likeness to Roono.
That's it for today - only four more sleeps before we whup the Yanks.
Monday, 7 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #3
There was a bit of commotion in the hotel last night. Some joker got in to Rooney's room and nicked his personal pillow. Lots of shouting, laughing and joking until Wayno eventually tracked down his beloved pillow in Carrick's room. Still some confusion whether or not it was Carrick who nicked it in the first place - the smart money is on Joe Cole - the little tinker.
Final friendly match today and I knew fairly early on that I would be getting a run out against what can best be described as a local pub team. Not sure I will get a cap for this game but I suppose I am not an international player.
We were all required to meet local fans at the hotel before we set off for the match this afternoon. Really surprised to see a group of people from the South African branch of A Question of Sport fan club. They had come to meet Matt and had a big shock when they got me instead. Could see the confusion on their faces but I think I got away with it. Anyway I still autographed some of those funny shaped balls for them.
We got a good 3 - 0 win against Platinum Stars. Not the best performance in the world and Wayno lost it a bit and got booked - he can be a divvy sometimes. I was pleased with my 45 minutes and even got some comments quoted on the FA Website
Spoke to the boss (Harry) last night and commiserated with him after his England team lost the Soccer Aid 2010 game to a penalty by a bloke who's never played football in his life. Some of the guys today were hoping David James would get crocked so that Fabio would call up Jamie Theakston as his replacement - he had a brill second half last night.
Right must go, me and the other four Spurs lads are having a card school tonight - if we can get some little nods, winks and tells between us we should be able to fleece the rest of the squad of a few Rands
Sunday, 6 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #2
Looks like I'm getting the number 5 jersey. Fabio sent Becks down the local market this morning to get some of those stick on letters for the back of my shirt. I spent a couple of hours after breakfast taking "Ferdinand" off and sticking my name on - it does look good though but Rio's bloody shirts are gonna be miles too big for me - bet I look a right twat.
Phoned Mrs D before I went to sleep last night. She'd had a call already from Montana Manning (Lennon's other half - and a bit of alright if you ask me) - she has a bit of a reputation though for flashing her knickers when photographers are around (according to the Mail Online anyway). Seems like the "stay at home" WAGs are having a BBQ next Saturday at the Rooney's - Coleen's quite partial to a beef quarterpounder I hear.
Lots of really nice messages of congratulations and support from Spurs fans. Even one from an S Quinn in Ireland - say they're big Spurs supporters and hope I get a chance to play - but they'll still be cheering for the USA on Saturday.
Also some messages from Gooner fans asking me to kick lumps out of Wright-Phillips in training so that he has to go home and maybe that loser Walcott will be called up before Friday - er don't think so.
Let me tell you I'm a pit pissed off with Panini as it happens. Do you know there are stickers for the errand boy Beckham and that loser Theo - but there isn't one of me - bet Panini feel real stupid now.
OK, we're one hour ahead of you guys back in the UK so we're just getting ready to go down for dinner. Fabio's imposed a booze ban - feeling a bit guilty now about that crafty drink with JT yesterday - still he's not gonna say anything he's been in enough trouble already.
Hoping to get picked for some part of the friendly tomorrow against the Platinum Stars. Who needs bloody Rio.
Right, signing off now.
Saturday, 5 June 2010
World Cup Diary Blog #1
Well what a day yesterday. Me and the Mrs D went to see Jackson Browne in Sheffield. We had already planned to have a couple of weeks away at Butlins in Skegness and I was getting really excited about that.
Got home last night and had a message from Fabio telling me to get on the next plane to Johannesburg as Rio had injured his knee in a tackle on Emila Heskey - well that's what it sounded like. I can't really understand a word that Fabio says.
"Hello'a Mikel itsa Fabio ere. Thata bloody Emila Esky as nackurd Rio'as knee'a. I'a kneed'a you'a to catcha plane'a to Johannesburga straighta waya"
So there I was in the early hours of Saturday just hoping those BA strikers - no not Burton Albion, British Airways - don't cancel my flight. Anyway plane got away on time and I was able to get my head down for a few hours.
I can tell you I was mighty relieved that it was Rio that got injured and not JT. Wouldn't have wanted to leave Mrs D behind with JT back in the country - if you know what I mean.
Arrived in Jo'burg safely and surprised to see JT at the airport - thought my mate Ledley would have been there. Anyway JT took me to a local bar for a swift half before heading off to Rustenburg and my first training session. Not sure what my squad number is going to be yet - maybe I will just get number 5, which was Rio's number.
Accommodation looks good - deffo much better than we would have had at Butlins.
OK that's it for now - will keep you all posted - at least until the end of the first round matches. If things don't go to plan might even be home in time to go to Skeggy - have told Mrs D not to cancel the chalet yet - don't want to lose my deposit if it's not necessary.
Speak to you again soon.
Got home last night and had a message from Fabio telling me to get on the next plane to Johannesburg as Rio had injured his knee in a tackle on Emila Heskey - well that's what it sounded like. I can't really understand a word that Fabio says.
"Hello'a Mikel itsa Fabio ere. Thata bloody Emila Esky as nackurd Rio'as knee'a. I'a kneed'a you'a to catcha plane'a to Johannesburga straighta waya"
So there I was in the early hours of Saturday just hoping those BA strikers - no not Burton Albion, British Airways - don't cancel my flight. Anyway plane got away on time and I was able to get my head down for a few hours.
I can tell you I was mighty relieved that it was Rio that got injured and not JT. Wouldn't have wanted to leave Mrs D behind with JT back in the country - if you know what I mean.
Arrived in Jo'burg safely and surprised to see JT at the airport - thought my mate Ledley would have been there. Anyway JT took me to a local bar for a swift half before heading off to Rustenburg and my first training session. Not sure what my squad number is going to be yet - maybe I will just get number 5, which was Rio's number.
Accommodation looks good - deffo much better than we would have had at Butlins.
OK that's it for now - will keep you all posted - at least until the end of the first round matches. If things don't go to plan might even be home in time to go to Skeggy - have told Mrs D not to cancel the chalet yet - don't want to lose my deposit if it's not necessary.
Speak to you again soon.
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