ToffeeWeb - Season 2007-08

The Mail Bag

Michael Arteta?

Although I do not particularly care about anything else when Everton are winning, a few things have sprung to mind this week while taking into consideration Capello and his soon to be tenure as England manager.

Firstly, Everton have benefited from the experience and confidence that Joleon Lescott has gained from his international ventures with England no matter how bleak the overall England picture was. His performance in the second half against Zenit was truly class and he marshalled Arshavin extremely well, a player I rate extremely high. This improvement is no coincidence? I truly hope Lescott gets his chance under Capello to further his international credentials and experience to the benefit of Everton.

Secondly, I think Leighton Baines could benefit from a fresh England manager who has no scruples about who he picks, and will sooner rather than later get his chance at international level, again to the benefit of his game and Everton? It is only a matter of time until Vaughan comes into this category also? Maybe even Osman might get the chance that he truly deserves?

Thirdly, and my reason for writing this thread, I feel that Mikel Arteta would benefit enormously from international experience and take him to an entire new level, which is a scary thought, because for me and many Evertonian?s there aren?t many to match his ability in the Premiership and by inference the world. Spain squad for Euro 2008?

Yes, most likely if we continue to progress in league and cup, his contribution will not go unnoticed. However, I would rather see him playing on the left side of midfield for England in the 2010 World Cup. His technical ability would be extremely appreciated. He cannot be far from gaining eligibility for English nationality which I think is 5 years residence. He has currently been at Everton and in England for 3 ½ years. Does his time in Scotland count towards citizenship? I am the only one who would love to see Mikel work his magic for England? Surely it would again benefit Everton if this was to be the case, I think this is quite possible if Spain do not pick him for this summers Euros.

I apologize to anyone in advance who abhors my comments.
Paul Ramsey, Upholland Posted 13/12/2007 at 10:07:07

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Comments

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Colm

Can't quite envisage Mikel becoming a subject to the Crown!

Rob Heaton
1 Posted 13/12/2007 at 13:30:44

If I rememebr correctly from the Pistone case its ten years for England rather than five. I could be wrong though...

Mark Stone
2 Posted 13/12/2007 at 13:42:26

I said something similar myself recently. Michael Arteta though - love it!

Mike Homfray
3 Posted 13/12/2007 at 15:30:15

I do remember Mikel being interviewed once and when the interviewer referred to him as Spanish, he immediately reminded them that he was Basque!