Germany and Holland head big European kick-off

It maybe mid-summer but two of Europe’s biggest leagues are already underway for the new season.

In Holland the Eredivisie kicked off while in Germany the season started with the domestic cup competition, DFB-Pokal.

Both countries had unlikely league champions last season with AZ Alkmaar upsetting the odds in Holland and Wolfsburg winning their first ever Bundelsliga title.

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Barca and Bobby

It is testament to his achievements in his career that sadness at the death of Bobby Robson will reach far beyond the boundaries of his beloved North-East or even the shores of Great Britain. Robson’s skills as a player and manager as well as his gentle and welcoming manner, meant he was respected and much loved across the footballing world.

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The haves and the have nots

Sorry to talk about Manchester City and Real Madrid again but their super-spending has only highlighted the polarisation between those swimming in cash and those with barely a penny to their name.

While City parade their latest superstar and flaunt their money spare a thought for Livingston fans. The Scottish League division one club, who have substantial debts – including £30,000 to the local council, have begun the process of being wound up after the club’s owner, Angelo Massone, rejected an offer from the administrator to take the club off his hands (though since this story was written a rescue deal has been agreed - just). This is just three years after a five year spell in the Scottish Premier League came to an end.

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