France Transfer Rumors: Crossing My Fingers for Anelka

I am checking Google News about five times a day for news about a Nicolas Anelka trade. Five times a day. I’m not exaggerating. I wrote up my thoughts in an article for the main page at The Offside here.

I have no idea why I want this so badly for him. I guess I like to believe in the power of redemption, and in people’s ability to change for the better. And I’ve never thought that he was as bad as people said he was. Very focused, led astray by his brothers, and somewhat lacking in people skills. But not a bad person, and an amazing player. I desperately want to see him in Champions League before it’s too late. (And don’t let me down once you get there, Nico.)

Alas, still no news. Bolton manager Gary Megson is saying there has not yet been a formal approach from Chelsea or anybody. Tongues were wagging this week when he was omitted from the roster for the FA Cup. The assumption was that it was to keep him from being cup-tied. But Megson says no, it was to keep him healthy so he can continue to single-handedly keep Bolton out of the relegation zone. So we continue to wait and see.

Another interesting rumor about Bolton, though? That they might bring in Djibril Cisse to take Anelka’s place. Cisse hasn’t found his stride at Marseille this year, so this one could have some merit. Could be interesting. Djibril’s another one who breaks my maternal heart, and I’d like to see him find success somewhere.

And this isn’t about the winter transfer period, but Gazzetta Dello Sport is reporting that former Next Zidane Yoann Gourcuff will be waived from Milan in the summer. Come back to France, Yoann! They can love you like you deserve to be loved!!

And on that happy thought, I leave you with another. Happy thought, that is. Or happy video. I believe the gang at “Scrubs” are Anelka fans.

(Show of hands if you remember this goal.)