Michael Doyle

[TheOneWhoKnocks]

Seriously, if there was proper moderation of this forum TOWK's post number 135 above would be deleted.

It is so full of lies, sophistry and exaggerations that it completely insults those of us who spend time on this forum.

For example, I can't think of one person who thinks Keane us undroppable. No player since this forum started has divided opinion more, other than Roy. It's just that your argument as it was presented didn't stack up. I fear for your Business Law assignment marker if he says you need to present your critical thinking better. Instead of following his advice and fine tuning your reasoning you'll simply wait 3 weeks and re-present the same paper thinking he must be a demented idiot with no recollection of your first submission.

Nobody accused you of manipulating quotes or statistics. (Maybe Geysir?)

People have rightly accused you of avoiding tough questions

Nobody has any issues with unpopular opinions, in themselves.

Nobody has manipulated Shane Long's statistics, though many have criticised his finishing. Perish the thought.

Nobody denies Keane said what he said. Most accept they were at worst ambiguous and most agree they were out of character with his proven commitment. Some like me believe sub-editors at IMN relished the opportunity to spin them negatively.

Only you persist with the notion that McGeady was "clear" that Ireland's likely success (compared to Scotland) was a factor in his "declaration" when the only thing clear in the quoted passage was that he was glad to have played in the Euros.

Ireland qualifying for the Euros vindicated his decision. I think that is pretty clear that International success factored in his decision. What I take out of that is that he would have regrets declaring for Scotland if they didn't reach tournaments and Ireland did. I'm not having a go at the guy. Darron Gibson has said pretty much the same. Eunan O'Kane is also on record in saying that his decision to choose Ireland over NI was a purely sporting reason.

I don't share the same mistrust towards the "meeja" that seems to be rampant among some here. I think he has to take responsibility for what he said. It wasn't scripted. Ambiguous, isn't that the same as open to interpretation, of which one of mine is causing so much consternation?

People are constantly going on about Long's goalscoring record when he has only started about half of his 40 odd appearances. It's no better or worse than what I do with Keane; and Keane is guilty of poor finishing too.

People did take issue with me suggesting that Keane be rotated for certain games; across multiple posts. That is a fact, Stutts.

[Stuttgart88]

You have regularly avoided answering very direct questions.

Will you ever cop on that your opinions don't rile people? You rehash that line to the point of tedium. Almost everything in post 135 above is presented disingenuously and it's a perfect example of what riles people.

As for McGeady, Scotland's antipathy is well documented. I didn't challenge you on that. I challenged your assertion that it was "clear" from the quoted passage that he was influenced by future success. I don't care if he was, it was simply not clear from the quoted passage. You evaded that (edit, I see you responded above albeit with a speculative remark).

In your para 2 above re Keane and Long, I don't think anyone really disagrees or at worst nobody thinks it's an unfair opinion. You have consistently assumed it's the view that is unpopular, it's not. It's your presentation.

[DannyInvincible]

Darron Gibson has said pretty much the same.

Look here, sonny Jim; I'll let Grealish and McGeady slide, but accusing a fellow former-St. Columb's lad of being a mercenary? That's the final straw!

It was unbelievable, you know, making the debut for your country. Everyone from Derry wants to play for Ireland. I grew up supporting Ireland, so it was a natural choice for me.

[PatJR]

I have also seen enough in the Serbia game to conclude that Hoolahan and/or Reid and Long is the way to go if everyone is fit. Just my opinion but it really seems to rile people.

Keane has been a guaranteed starter all through his Ireland career. He has never been put into a position where his place in the team is questioned - until recently. I commend him for his loyalty but the relevant quotes pertain to a scenario where he is no longer guaranteed starts.

If Hoolahan\Reid are on the pitch (and good enough to make an impact on the game - still have my doubts) then you definitely want Robbie on the pitch to make the runs and take the chances. There is the nagging problem that he always does better with a strike partner which is one reason I'd like to see them try out a 3-5-2 formation.

[paul_oshea]

That video is so american, in a futile rage, yet he breaks it on the weak end, and has the presence of mind to do so. Pussy.

[Eminence Grise]

Seriously, if there was proper moderation of this forum TOWK's post number 135 above would be deleted.

Why stop at that one? Personally, I'd delete everything after #7. Seriously, this is the worst handbag fight I've seen on foot.ie in a long time. It's great ()that people are so passionate about philosophy, ethics and the like, but maybe locating the PM button would be a sensible option.

[Stuttgart88]

Point taken.

[CraftyToePoke]

Why stop at that one? Personally, I'd delete everything after #7. Seriously, this is the worst handbag fight I've seen on foot.ie in a long time. It's great ()that people are so passionate about philosophy, ethics and the like, but maybe locating the PM button would be a sensible option.

Bit harsh there EG, a touch harsh. I'm in the 'keep her lit boys' camp on this one, it's great to hear the sparks of these conversational clashes fly around the hallowed virtual halls of foot once again. And I remain unconvinced that there isn't a WUM of some sophistication in our midst also, in the form of newbie. Even if not, he should be taught to respect his elders. Publicly.

[Eminence Grise]

I gave it 138 posts, Crafty. (Not even David Moyes will get that amount of breathing space!) I'm all for debate and stirring things up (at the risk of awakening the kraken I sometimes miss the righteous indignation and elliptical arguments that Ealing Green used to bring). But this is more spat than spark.

[TheOneWhoKnocks]

Relax, lads. It's a football forum for God's sake. Reasoned debate is healthy. I'm genuinely not trying to annoy anyone.

I tried to draw a line under this several times but people seem to want to continue it and then get irritated when I respond.

Sure can you blame me for getting mixed signals?

I think it's ran its course now. Leave this thread for Michael Doyle. It will undoubtedly be getting busy again with a day at Wembley on the cards!

And respect? Seriously, when have I ever disrespected anyone? I literally respect everyone on the forum. You are all very intelligent guys and I sincerely value each and every one of your opinions, even though it clearly isn't reciprocated in kind.

[SwanVsDalton]

I think it's ran its course now. Leave this thread for Michael Doyle.

Who's that?

[WexCar]

Leave this thread for Michael Doyle.

Well its proved to be quite the prophetic thread title.

[TheOneWhoKnocks]

http://thescore.thejournal.ie/irishm...05730-Apr2014/

Some interesting comments about his International career.

[DannyInvincible]

http://thescore.thejournal.ie/irishm...05730-Apr2014/

Some interesting comments about his International career.

Despite having interviewed him, I'm not sure even TheScore.ie know who Mick Doyle is...

Doyle pictured with Scotland’s Kevin McNaughton during an Ireland B international in 2007.

[Charlie Darwin]

Is that Hunt?

[DannyInvincible]

Aye, 'tis.

[tricky_colour]

Michael Doyle may lift the FA cup yet!!!

[CraftyToePoke]

Michael Doyle may lift the FA cup yet!!!

Who ?

[tricky_colour]

Who ?

Michael Paul Doyle, Sheffield United captain.

[Charlie Darwin]

I've found a picture of him if that helps.