Angulo Back? What About the Others?

By: Cesar | February 7th, 2008

Today’s wire has a news story about the ‘return’ of broken-hearted striker Miguel Angel Angulo. I say ‘return’ because it’s not really a comeback, more of a ‘you’re there, so wanna play?’

Maybe it’s not significant that Angulo played a heavy part in yesterday’s first team training session and practice match. Maybe it means absolutely nothing that the striker wore the number 11 jersey and played well.

But what if it does mean something? Is he back? What about David Albelda and Santiago Canizares? Are they far behind?

I doubt it. Angulo kept his mouth shut more or less, only saying that his heart was broken over being fired by Ronald Koeman.

Albelda and Canizares were more vocal in their disapproval of coach Koeman’s directives. Albelda went as far as to sue the Turian club, claiming his place on the national squad for Euro 2008 would be in jeopardy if he couldn’t play regular first-team football.

I doubt Angulo’s participation suggests any of the three are back. I think it’s more a matter of numbers. David Villa, Raul Albiol, the injured David Silva and Carlos Marchena were all with the national team for their friendly against France yesterday (along with Albelda, who saw some action for the first time in ages). Angulo was probably just hanging out, kicking balls against the wall when Koeman ruffled his stringy hair and said, ‘C’mon, lad. Have a kick with us.’

Sad, but true. Don’t expect any of these guys back anytime soon.

If you’d like to read more about this debate, check out this article from Goal.com that argues the finer points of the case.

In other news, the club’s looking to take disciplinary actions against loaned-out midfielder Manuel Fernandes and defender Miguel for their involvement in a nightclub incident in which two police officers were allegedly attacked. Good grief!

Manuel’s gone. Miguel’s getting quite pudgy off the paella and whiskey sours he’s drinking at Vivir Sin Dormir. The punishment’s going to be handed out Tuesday, according to Valencia vice president Rafael Salom. The real punishment would be if these guys played for Valencia next season.

Manuel’s too moody, although very talented. And Miguel’s lost it, growing as fast as Ronaldo did in the Galactico days. Better to say goodbye to these two lads, no matter if they were right or wrong in the alleged incident.

This weekend, it’s Real Betis at the Mestalla. Should be a win based on how we’ve been playing lately.

But nothing’s guaranteed in the Land of Koeman. Not even the expulsions of Angulo, Canizares and Albelda. Stay tuned …