FOOTBALL CLUB WORLD

Today marks the 62nd anniversary of the Superga tragedy, an event that changed the history of Torino Football Club forever.

For those that don’t know, May 4th 1949 is a date that is etched in the memories of all Torino fans, and sadly it so for all the wrong reasons. It was on this day that the famous Il Grande Torino team perished in a airplane disaster when the team were returning from a friendly match in Lisbon. Il Grande Torino were a team truly befitting of their name, as they won an incredible five consecutive league titles and were undefeated at their home stadium Filadelfia in four of those seasons. Perhaps the most remarkable achievement of the team was the fact that in a friendly match between Italy and Hungary, Torino provided all ten outfield players for the Azzurri, a feat that will almost certainly never be repeated. Led by their captain Valentino Mazzola, Il Grande Torino dazzled their supporters with attacking football, at a time when the Italian people needed uplifting in the aftermath of the Second World War.

Sadly however, the story of Il Grande Torino has a tragic ending, but one that cemented the teams almost mythical status. Returning from a farewell match for Benfica player Francisco Ferreira in Lisbon, the plane carrying the players and officials crashed into the Basilica of Superga, situated on a hill near Turin. There were no survivors. In the aftermath of the tragedy, an estimated 500,000 people lined the streets of Turin to pay their respects for the players who had perished, with nobody quite being able to comprehend what had happened. Torino have never been able to replicate the success they achieved in the 1940s, and have only been able to win one Scudetto since, in 1976, and currently find themselves in the second tier of Italian football, a world away from the accomplishments of Il Grande Torino.

On my recent trip to Turin, I was lucky enough to visit the Torino museum in Grugliasco, a town on the outskirts of Turin. Whilst it is officially known as the ‘Museo Grande Torino’ the museum features exhibits from all aspects of Torino’s history. Whether that be memorabilia from the team’s run to the Uefa Cup Final in 1992 or a match worn shirt belonging to current captain Rolando Bianchi. However, it is the exhibits relating to Il Grande Torino that are most intriguing, and really enable the visitor to gain a real insight to how the tragedy affected not only the supporters of Torino, but the whole of Italy.

As a Torino fan, I may be biased, but after visiting the Museo Grande Torino, the other football museums that I have visited, those belonging to both AC Milan and Barcelona really do pale in comparison. Part of the reason for this is the fact that unlike at the two museums I have mentioned, where almost all of the artifacts are hidden behind glass cases, and the visitor is left to their own devices, at the Museo Grande Torino, that is not the case. Instead, I was given a tour around the museum by a guide (who thankfully spoke English, thanks again Amleto) and many of the exhibits can be touched and in some cases smelt. That brings me nicely to what was in my opinion the most remarkable exhibit in the museum, a medicine box that had been recovered from the wreckage of the plane after the Superga disaster. The incredible thing was, that whilst the impact of the crash had led to the death of 31 people, the contents of the box showed little damage, and remained pretty much intact. The box included a container of a liniment, that would of been used to treat muscle injuries, and despite being 62 years old, had still managed to retain its smell, that immediately engulfed the room and almost succeeded in transporting me back to the days of Il Grande Torino.

The museum also includes an area dedicated to former player Gigi Meroni, whose tale is once again one of immense sadness. Meroni’s style of play and playboy lifestyle led to comparisons with George Best, however in 1967, his life and career came to a premature end when he was hit by a car whilst crossing the road. He was only 24.

The history of Torino has certainly been an eventful one, but the legends of Il Grande Torino should never be forgotten, and thankfully, due to the existence of Museo Grande Torino, their achievements will continue to be acknowledged and therefore live on. Recently, every new Torino signing has embarked on a trip to the museum, and this is an appropriate step to ensure that each current player knows what it means to represent Torino.

Whilst the museum certainly is a fitting tribute to the players of Il Grande Torino, sadly despite many promises regarding its rebuilding, Filadelfia continues to be left in ruin. However, recently there has been talk of the old stadium finally being rebuilt, if only to be used as a training facility, and hopefully this will happen sooner rather than later.

Forza Torino

All pictures and videos are copyright of ‘Museo Grande Torino’, please if you have the opportunity, please visit the museum. It is open on Saturdays and Sundays, and you can find their official website here.

Outside the Museum.

Trumpet belonging to Oreste Bolmida, known as 'The Trumpeter of Filadelfia'.

Stands from the old stadium at Filadelfia.

A suitcase belonging to Valentino Mazzola, recovered from the wreckage of the crash.

Ticket stub from the last game played by Il Grande Torino - Against Benfica.

Car that once belonged to Gigi Meroni.

Winners medal from Torino's 1976 Scudetto Victory.

Rolando Bianchi's captain's armband - translation - I am the captain of my soul.

Torino fought back from behind twice to gain a point against Siena, but continue their run of consecutive draws which now stretches to four matches.

It was league leaders Siena who started quickest, knowing that a point would be enough to secure their return to Serie A at the first attempt. They took the lead after just ten minutes, and it was a man who started his career at Torino, Emanuele Calaiò who scored the goal. Torino failed to deal with a short corner routine, that allowed Reginaldo to drive into the area unchallenged and deliver a cross to find Calaiò, who scored with a fantastic bicycle kick.

Despite that early setback, Toro were level less than fifteen minutes later, and finally it was someone other than Rolando Bianchi who found the net. Alessandro Sgrigna picked up the ball on the left hand side and unleashed a fierce low shot with his right foot from just outside the area to beat home goalkeeper Ferdinando Coppola and level the scores.

Torino would have taken the lead soon afterwards, if it wasn't for an unbelievable save from Coppola as he somehow kept out Rolando Bianchi's ferocious 35 yard free kick. Instead, it was Siena who would take a lead into the half time interval, and again, it was that man Calaiò with the goal, as his header from Roberto Vitiello's cross narrowly beat the dive of Rubinho.

After the break, Torino had opportunities to equalise with both Bianchi, and Mirko Antenucci coming close, and when Francesco Pratali was fouled by Simone Vergassola in the area, Torino had a great opportunity to level the scores. However, that opportunity was not taken when, Bianchi, who is usually so reliable from the penalty spot, put his effort wide of the post. Just three minutes later however, Torino were level, as the captain made amends when he fired in from just five yards after Biagio Pagano's low cross.

The game finished level and gave Siena the point they needed to secure promotion, and as other results went their way the point was a valuable one for Toro and kept them in the top six. The race for the playoffs is one of the closest in recent history with just two points separating six teams. As they currently occupy one of those playoff positions, Torino know their destiny is in their own hands, but a victory at home to next week to Triestina is vital, because if not, four teams are waiting behind them to capitalise.

Despite being unbeaten in their last seven fixtures, Torino have not won any of their last four games, therefore tomorrow's home match against Triestina has to be classed in the 'must win' category in order for Toro to keep their playoff destiny in their own hands.

As things currently stand, Torino occupy 6th place, but the race for the final playoff position could not be tighter, with no less than four sides hypothetically being able to overtake Toro should they fail to win on Saturday. Therefore, nothing less than three points will do, in a fixture, which is on paper at least, Torino's easiest remaining match. The reason for that is because their opponents, Triestina, currently find themselves in one of the three automatic relegation places, and have only won three matches away from home all season.

Torino's habit to concede the first goal (which has happened in the last four matches) is becoming an increasing worry, and whilst the team have shown battling qualities in order to fight back and gain a draw in each of these fixtures, Toro must get off to a quick start against Triestina. In fact, the last time Torino scored within the first ten minutes, they went on to win the match 4-0 (against Ascoli), thus emphasising how beneficial a good start can be.

Mirko Antenucci's lack of goalscoring form is a worry, and could perhaps see Franco Lerda revert back to a 4-2-3-1 formation, whilst it will be interesting to see whether Angelo Ogbonna will return to his normal centre back position, or whether he will continue to be deployed as a full back.

Forza Torino

Torino returned to winning ways with a convincing 2-0 victory over relegation threatened Triestina, to keep their hopes of participating in the end of season playoffs alive.

One of the biggest criticism of this Torino side is their tendency to make a slow start in games, however it took just six minutes for them to take the lead on Saturday. The goal arrived after sloppy play by the Triestina defence, who gifted the ball to Mirko Antenucci who finished calmly with his left foot from 18 yards out. That goal was Antenucci's first in over a month, and he nearly had a second soon afterwards, but his header was well saved by Sergio Viotti in the Triestina goal.

After dominating the first half, Toro began the second half in similar fashion, and should have extended their lead via Angelo Ogbonna, but once again Viotti produced a fine save. Rolando Bianchi also had a chance to continue his great run of form, but directed his header straight at the away goalkeeper. Just when it seemed Torino would not find a second goal, Bianchi headed down a cross from the right hand side into the path of Guiseppe De Feudis who chested it down and scored his first goal for the club with a left footed volley.

The match finished 2-0 and Torino got the three points they desperately needed, albeit against a poor Triestina team. However, as there were also victories for Empoli, Livorno and Padova, it means just two points separate the four sides, with Torino continuing to occupy the treasured 6th place.

Next weekends set of fixtures will be particularly interesting, because Torino visit Empoli on Friday evening, whilst Padova face Livorno on the Saturday, meaning that the playoff picture will become a lot clearer this time next week.

Forza Torino

As I watched last night's pulsating League 1 play-off semi final between Bournemouth and Huddersfield, I couldn't help but still feel bitterly disappointed that Oxford United had not managed to break into the League 2 play-offs.

Following that fantastic match against local rivals Wycombe Wanderers (who since won automatic promotion to League 1), our season grinded to an unevenful end picking up five points from our remaining five fixtures. In truth, the courageous comeback that Wycombe staged that afternoon knocked the stuffing out of the Oxford players. After a draining and emotional return back to the Football League, we eventually settled for a respectable mid-table position. With the talented and enthusiastic squad that we possessed, this was slighty disappointing, but I have no doubt that we will come back stronger next season.

Like every yellows fan, I cannot wait for next season's local derby against Swindon. We have been deprived of this fixture for ten years now; it is time to lock horns again. I pray that this game is not scheldued for any time in August. It would not go down well with my girlfriend if I had to leave our planned holiday to Italy early for the terraces at Swindon. I was also delighted that Bristol Rovers were relegated as the Memorial Stadium is a convenient five minute walk from my student flat.

On a final note, I was desperately sorry to see that Jack Midson had been released from the club. Midson was an integral member of our promotion winning side and was a wholly committed player, who you could always rely on to give his all. Jack, if you ever read this (as I'm aware you've read this blog a couple of times), best of luck with your career. You can be sure that you will always receive a warm reception from the Oxford faithful.

I'll update the blog over the summer with transfer news and next season's much anticipated fixture list.

With just two games remaining in the regular Serie B season, Torino know that victories in both games will guarantee their place in the end of season playoffs, and maintain their hopes of a return to Serie A.

Therefore, tonight's game against playoff rivals Empoli is arguably Torino's most important since last season playoff final against Brescia, because a defeat against the Tuscan club would almost certainly end their promotion dreams.

Torino are currently unbeaten since the return of Franco Lerda as coach, and whilst that does sound impressive, they have only won four of those eight matches, though they were victorious last time out against Triestina. Meanwhile, Empoli know a victory would catapult themselves above Torino into sixth place, and have won their last two fixtures.

Torino have included speedy winger Dejan Lazarevic in the squad, and he could return to the starting line up after missing a few games due to injury.

Torino took the lead after just three minutes, but were unable to hold on to what would have been a vital victory, and therefore means they must beat Padova on Sunday in order to compete in the playoffs at the end of the regular season.

Torino could not of made a better start, as after just three minutes, Mirko Antenucci's exquisite pass found the on running Antimo Iunco, whose side footed shot narrowly crawled over the line. Empoli's goalkeeper Alberto Pelagotti did get a hand to the shot, which was in all honestly a tame effort, and should therefore be disappointed that he did not prevent the goal.

Empoli dominated the rest of the first half as they attempted to get back into the game, a game they needed to win in order to keep alive their own hopes of reaching the playoffs. Like so many times this season, Toro were thankful to their goalkeeper Rubinho, who made a number of good saves, including tipping a Diego Fabbrini half volley over the bar.

However, Empoli were level three minutes into the second half via Mirko Valdifiori's stunning volley from 25 yards after a Torino failed to clear a corner. Both sides had half chances to get a winner, as both Luciano Zavagno and Valerio Di Cesare came close for the Granata.

In the dying seconds, Torino had the best chance to gain all three points, but Alessando Sgrigna's left footed shot was well saved by Pelagotti, who made amends for his earlier mistake. In the other crucial game in the race for the playoffs, Padova beat Livorno 3-2, meaning that only a victory will suffice for Torino, when they meet Padova next Sunday.

On the eve of the 1938 World Cup Final, Benito Mussolini sent the Italian football team a telegram with the message “Vincere o morire” - Win or Die.

Whilst the Italian dictator did not mean this literally and instead wanted his team to go out and do their best, this sentiment is an adequate one ahead of Torino’s fixture against Padova on Sunday. Although the term ‘must win’ is often overused (including many times on this blog) that is the only way that Sunday’s match can be described. A victory will guarantee Torino a place in the end of season playoffs and therefore keep their dreams of a return to Serie A alive.

However, anything less than a victory would mean that Torino would be playing in the Italian second tier for a third successive year, and instead of facing glamorous fixtures against the likes of Milan, Inter and Juventus next season, Toro would be facing the not so glamorous prospect of newly promoted Gubbio, a team who were in the Eccellenza (Italian Sixth Division) as recently as 1997.

Torino and Padova head into the game with long unbeaten records, with both sides not having tasted defeat since March. However, it is Padova who have the better form, winning their last three games, whereas Toro have drawn five of their last six matches, and they know that if this game ends level, then it will be their opponents who will reach the playoffs.

Whatever happens, Sunday will be a tense affair, but victory in a game that is effectively a playoff for the playoffs, would certainly give Torino momentum for the actual post season that begins on Thursday, and in the playoffs, momentum could lead to promotion.

Forza Torino

Torino succumbed to a 2-0 home defeat at the hands of Padova, and thus ensured that they would remain in Serie B for a third consecutive season, with it being their opponents who now go on to the playoffs.

In a game that Torino needed to win in order to prolong their season, coach Franco Lerda made a brave decision as he left striker Mirko Antenucci on the bench, in order to revert to his favoured 4-2-3-1 formation that Torino often used at the start of the season.

Torino had the better of the opening exchanges, and it looked as though Lerda's gamble may pay off, as Rolando Bianchi and Guiseppe De Feudis both had opportunities to give Toro the lead. However, just as it looked that the teams would go into half time level, Padova delivered the ultimate sucker punch. Once again it was a set piece that was Torino's undoing, and when Rubinho failed to claim an inswinging corner, Matias Claudio Cuffa rose highest to head into an unguarded net.

In all honestly, after going in at the break behind, Torino never really looked as though they would stage the comeback that they desperately needed. Mirko Antenucci was introduced at half time, perhaps an admission by the coach that he had got his initial team selection wrong, but it was not until the introduction of Andrea Gasbarroni in the 71st minute, that Toro had their best opportunity of the match.

With almost his first touch, Gasbarroni delivered a fantastic cross to the far post to find Bianchi, whose header hit the base of the post when it seemed certain he would equalise. Whilst their was some suspicion that the former Manchester City striker was being fouled, it was a chance that the Captain would normally take, and was perhaps an indication that it was not going to be Torino's day.With just ten minutes remaining, Padova sealed the victory and therefore their place in the playoffs, as with Torino going forward in search of an equaliser, Marcos De Paula was able to go into the Torino box unopposed and score with a neat left footed finish.

Despite a slight resurgence towards the end of the season, it cannot mask what has been an undeniably disastrous campaign, and drastic changes must be made next season in order for Torino to return to Serie A. Whilst this was also said last season, the fact that this team, that on paper should have been challenging for the automatic promotion places, has finished the season in eighth position, is almost unforgivable.

It will be interesting to see whether President Urbano Cairo will vacate his position, as he declared that he would when he reappointed Franco Lerda as coach in March, and it is almost certain that Torino will begin next season with yet another coach in charge.

It will also be difficult to convince Rolando Bianchi and Angelo Ogbonna to spend yet another season in Serie B, when both are likely to be coveted by a number of clubs in Serie A, and therefore they may have just played their last games in a Torino shirt.


Forza Torino 

As an attempt to forget about the disappointment of Torino's failure to reach the playoffs, watch the video below and then vote for you favourite Torino goal from this season.

Three days have passed since Torino's home defeat to Padova meant that they would not be competing in this seasons Serie B playoffs, and therefore meaning that they will now spend a third successive season in Italy's second tier. In order to attempt to understand how a team that should have been contending for automatic promotion, was able to finish outside the playoffs positions, this blog will outline five reasons as to why Torino failed this season.

1. Poor Start

This is perhaps an obvious comment to make, but no matter what team you are, or what league that you are in, a good start to the season is essential. However, this season, Torino began the campaign with successive 2-1 defeats, firstly at home to Varese, and then away to Cittadella. Whilst on reflection, the opening day defeat to Varese can be excused, as despite being newly promoted they went on to finish the season in 4th position, Torino still had to wait until week 4 against Sassuolo before recording their first victory. For a team who were seeking promotion that can not be considered to be good enough, and when compared with eventual league winners Atalanta, who were in unbeaten in their opening four games, then it shows that Torino were playing catch up from the outset.

2. The 'Cup Final' effect

Without wanting to sound too arrogant, it would be fair to say that Torino are at times victims of their own past successes, especially when playing teams with less distinguished histories. Whilst the the term 'Cup Final' is perhaps a cliché, it is certainly true that other teams in Serie B would raise their performances when playing Torino. The fact that Toro have been champions of Italy seven times, whilst non of the other teams in the second tier have won one scudetto, certainly shows that even nowadays, the scalp of Torino is still a significant one. It can also be said, that some players can under perform due to the pressure of playing for such a large team with a passionate support, and thus in future, it may be an idea to sign players who can deal with coping with this pressure.

3. Over reliance on Rolando Bianchi

If you mention the name Rolando Bianchi to the majority of English football fans, they will remember his brief and ultimately unsuccessful spell at Manchester City in the 2007/8 season in which he only scored four goals. However, for Torino fans, in his three seasons at the club he has became an idol, and due to his goals, he has almost single handedly given Toro at least the opportunity to compete for promotion. After last season, in which the captain scored 26 goals, and despite not performing to the same exceptional standard this season, he was still able to repeat his goalscoring exploits by scoring 19 goals this season, despite the fact he played ten games less. However, for the second season in a row, Bianchi was the only Torino player to get into double figures, and this lack of goalscoring options throughout the team is certainly a contributing factor as to why they have failed to get promotion. With it being almost certain that Rolando will leave the club in the summer, it is vital that they find a way to get the whole team scoring goals, and not just relying on one man for the bulk of the goals.

4. Managerial Instability

Once again, this point is hardly ground breaking, but the fact that Torino had three managerial changes this season did not help their cause. After a run of four defeats in six games, the decision was made in March to fire Franco Lerda, and replace him with former Siena boss Giuseppe Papadopulo. However, just eleven days and two defeats later, Papadopulo was sacked and in an incredible turnaround,  Lerda was rehired. Whilst Lerda was relatively successful after his return, only losing one match (the decisive game against Padova) a number of factors have to be considered. Firstly, whilst the decision to sack Lerda as an attempt to revive Toro's chances of playoffs was at the time a fair one, the choice of Papadopulo as his replacement, was undoubtedly a failure. Whilst it can not be said for certain whether sticking with Lerda for the whole season would have led to a position in the playoffs, what can be said is that it would have been impossible for him to do worse than Papadopulo did for his brief period in charge. The fact that in a recent poll on Torino fans website Toronews, the majority of fans held the president Urbano Cairo responsible for the failure to gain promotion, it suggests that his habit of firing managers has turned the majority of fans against him.

5. Not making the most of Serie A status when we had it

When Torino gained promotion to Serie A in 2006, after a three year absence, it should have been the springboard for a prolonged stay in the top division, for a team who had been underachieving for many years. In their first season back, they finished in 16th position, albeit just one point above the relegation places, and in their second season back they improved slightly with a 15th place finish. After consolidating their top division status, the club's hierarchy should have attempted to move the club forward, and whilst contending for European football may have been an unrealistic target, seeking a top 10 finish would have been an achievable aim, if the squad was strengthened accordingly. However, this was not done, and the season ended in disappointment as Torino were once again relegated to Serie B. If one compares Torino to teams with similar histories (Napoli and Genoa) who have also recently been promoted to the top tier, they have managed to build on their respective promotions by gradually improving season on season to become established Serie A sides, culminating in Napoli's qualification for the Champions League this season. Although these teams have spent a significant amount of money, they have made sensible purchases, which Torino failed to do whilst in the top tier, and if they did, they may not be in this current predicament.

Young Torino defender Angelo Ogbonna has been called up by Italy coach Cesare Prandelli for the friendly match against the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday, after Alberto Aquilani was injured in the Azzuri's 3-0 victory over Estonia in Modena last night.

Whilst the match against Giovanni Trapattoni's Irish side is only a friendly, and Ogbonna is by no means guaranteed to gain his first cap in the match, it certainly shows that Prandelli thinks highly of a player who has only played 23 Serie A games in his career, with many of those coming as a substitute. In a season of disappointment for Torino, the continued emergence of Ogbonna has been a positive, as the vice captain was arguably Toro's best player this season, and is expected to make a big money move to a Serie A club after Torino's failure to gain promotion.

Read more at SerieAWeekly.com

In just six years as Torino President Urbano Cairo has overseen the appointment of a remarkable fourteen coaches, with former Bari boss Giampiero Ventura the latest man to be appointed as Torino coach.

After Torino’s failure to reach the Serie B playoffs, the departure of previous coach Franco Lerda was inevitable, and after a week of speculation, including former Foggia coach Zdenek Zemen being linked, it is Ventura who has been entrusted with the task to get Torino back into Serie A.  However, the fact the experienced coach has only been given an initial one year contract does not suggest a willingness on Urbano Cairo’s part to embark on a long term project that Torino so desperately need.

Read more at SerieAWeekly.com

In what will undoubtedly be a busy summer for new players, Torino have made Varese striker Osarimen Ebagua their first summer signing.

After their failure to reach the Serie B playoffs, Torino will be looking to build a squad that is capable of achieving a return to Serie A in the forthcoming campaign, under their new coach Giampiero Ventura. The signing of Ebagua certainly seems to be a positive one, and whilst he cannot be described as being a prolific goal scorer throughout his career, he scored 12 goals from 28 games to help newly promoted Varese to an impressive 4th place finish last season.

At just 25 years old, there is also plenty of room for improvement for a player who was been described by his former Varese coach, Giuseppe Sannino as being ‘self-sacrificing’ as well as being a ‘born fighter’, which are characteristics Torino have lacked in their team in recent seasons.

By completing his transfer to Torino, Ebagua is returning to the club that he began his career at, as he was in the youth set up at Toro, before being released in 2005 due to the clubs financial difficulties. The Nigerian born striker is not the only player who has gone on to have a successful career after being released by Torino in 2005. Federico Marchetti, Robert Acqafresca and Fabio Quagliarella were all released under similar circumstances, and it certainly makes one wonder where Torino would be today had they not gone bankrupt in 2005.

Torino have had to pay Varese a significant sum of 1.2 million euros in order to sign Ebagua on a Co-Ownership deal, and young defender Gaetano Carrieri has moved in the opposite direction as part of the transfer. The purchase of Osarimen Ebagua increases the likelihood that Torino’s captain and talisman Rolando Bianchi will be departing, with a number of Serie A clubs interested in the former Manchester City striker.

This evening, River Plate will play the most important match in their 110 year history when they face Belgrano de Cordoba in a relegation playoff. It is almost unthinkable that one of the world’s most famous clubs could be playing in the Argentine second division next season. However, as a Torino fan, I’m certainly aware that having an illustrious history does not guarantee continuous success, as demonstrated by the fact that despite having seven Serie A titles to their name, Torino currently find themselves in the second tier of Italian football.

However, it is not just their recent decline that links these two historic football clubs, but instead it is tale of friendship that began in the 1940s, and continues to the present day. In 1949, ‘Il Grande Torino’ were regarded as one of the best teams in world football, as they were on the verge of winning their fourth consecutive Serie A title. However, whilst returning from a friendly match against Benfica in Lisbon, disaster struck. In poor weather conditions, the plane that the team and officials were travelling on crashed into the Basilica of Superga near Turin. There were no survivors.

Upon hearing the news of the tragedy, River Plate president Antonio Vespucio Liberti decided that his team should go to Italy in order to show solidarity with Torino, with the idea that a match between the two teams could also raise money for the victim’s families. Therefore, just 22 days after the tragedy on May 26 1949, River Plate played a friendly against a team representing the symbol of Torino, made up of a selection of the best players in the Italian league, the match finished 2-2.

Despite being over sixty years since Superga, River Plate and Torino still maintain a close affiliation, with Torino fans appreciative of River’s role in the healing process that was necessary after the disaster. In the Torino Museum in Grugliasco, a current River Plate shirt can be found, thus showing that the match between the two teams is still regarded as a significant fixture in the clubs history. The fact that Torino’s current away kit echoes the traditional diagonal sash shirt made famous by River Plate, is another way in which the affiliation continues in the present day.

With River Plate being 2-0 down from the first leg of the relegation playoff, their quest to maintain their Primera División status does seem to be an ominous one. However, as a Torino fan thankful of Antonio Vespucio Liberti’s gesture of solidarity in Torino’s hour of need, I hope River manage to get the victory they need tonight.

River Plate v Torino Match Ticket

Torino's 2010-11 away kit

Whilst Torino's sporting director Gianluca Petrachi has often spoken this summer about having the bulk Torino's signings completed before they depart for their pre season training camp in Sappada on the 15th July, it was still somewhat surprising when late on Thursday night, Torino announced the purchases of three new players - all from AC Milan.

With Torino only having one experienced goalkeeper on their books (Davide Morello) the purchase of a new goalkeeper was one of their primary objectives in this transfer window. That search now looks to be over with the signing of Ferdinando Coppola who has joined on a season long loan deal from the current Serie A champions. Despite technically being an AC Milan player, Coppola has never actually played a competitive fixture for his parent club, with the Rossoneri preferring to loan the player out. Last season, Coppola was on loan at Siena as he helped them achieve promotion to Serie A, and Torino fans will be hoping that he can repeat that success with the Granata.

Torino's business with AC Milan did not end their however, as they also negotiated the purchases of two of Milan's younger prospects. Nigerian winger Nnamdi Oduamedi has also signed on loan, who despite only making one first team appearance for his parent club, has performed well for Milan's Primavera team, and at only twenty years of age has plenty of room for improvement.

Perhaps the most surprising of the three purchases would be the signing of 18 year old Simone Verdi on a co-ownership deal. Like Oduamedi, Verdi has been one of the standout players for Milan Primavera team and has also made appearances for the first team. At only 5ft 7 inches tall, aerial ability is certainly not one of Verdi's strengths, but according to this article on the Football Italia website his main attributes are his pace, technique and his work rate. Whilst he can play as a trequartista, one would expect that, when selected, Verdi will play as a winger in Giampiero Ventura's 4-4-2 system.

As part of the deal that has brought Simone Verdi to Torino, young Toro striker Gianmario Comi has gone to AC Milan, also on a co-ownership deal. Whilst Comi has been a regular scorer for the Primavera team, he has yet to breakthrough to the first team.

With just over two weeks until Torino depart for their pre season training camp in Sappada, Torino fans can expect many more signings, as coach Giampiero Ventura and Sporting Director Gianluca Petrachi attempt to create a squad that is capable of gaining promotion to Serie A. However, with the future of Angelo Ogbonna continuing to be in doubt, amidst rumours linking him with moves to Juventus, Roma, Arsenal, Manchester City and Milan, some Toro fans may just be happy if he is still a Torino player by the time they play their first pre season fixture.

As promised, this blog will detail signings made the U's thus far this Summer.

i) Andrew Whing (free transfer from Leyton Orient)

Whing was bought in on a free transfer from League 1 Leyton Orient after his contract expired in May. Prior to the O's, he played for Brighton where he won the player's player of the year in 2008 with an overwhelming 77% of the vote. This statistic alone is very encouraging. My only slight concern is over where exactly he will fit into the United set-up, as he is a right-back. Given that Damien Batt was selected for the League 2 team of the year in that same position last season, it seems unlikely that he will push Batt out of the team. Unless Wilder has plans to play him in an alternative position, a season warming the bench beckons for Whing.

Please don't be the next...Jude Stirling

ii) Tony Capaldi (free transfer from Morecambe)

Welshman Capaldi joined Oxford from fellow League 2 side Morecambe. Having played over a hundred games for Plymouth and after representing Cardiff City in the 2008 FA Cup Final, his career took a downward spiral when he joined Morecambe at the beginning of last season. Shortly after joining the Shrimps, he indicated his desire to move on tweeting at how 'rubbish' the team was and slating their backward training methods. If Wilder can get Capaldi to re-create his form of old, this could prove to be an inspired signing, especially as left-back was a problem position for Oxford last season.

Please don't be the next...Kevin Sandwith

iii) Ryan James (from Nike Academy)

Wilder has taken a punt by bringing in unproven centre-back Ryan James from the Nike Academy, a set-up that helps young players join professional clubs. James previously played for the QPR and Millwall academies, primarily as a left-winger, before signing for Grays Athletic in the Blue Square Bet Premier. Since then, James has spent two years at the Nike Academy where he has been converted into a centre-half. Could prove to be a sensational gamble by Wilder.

Please don't be the next...Leo Roget

iv) Jon-Paul Pittman (from Wycombe)

The nippy American forward was released by Wycombe at the end of the season and Oxford acted quickly to secure his signature. Pittman scored against the Yellows in the entertaining score draw with our local rivals at the Kassam last season. Pittman has explosive pace, but his scoring record is worrying. He only managed a pitiful 14 goals in 77 Wycombe outings. However, he will certainly provide Wilder with a spark from the bench next season.

Please don't be the next...Christophe Remy

v) Deane Smalley (from Oldham)

Arguably the pick of Oxford's Summer signings thus far, Smalley was an instrumental figure behind Chesterfield's title winning success in League 2 last year, bagging 12 goals in 28 apparences. He rejected a contract extension with League 1 club Oldham to sign for United, which highlights his desire to join the club. Similarly to Pittman, his scoring record (prior to Chesterfield) is a major cause for concern, as he only managed 10 goals in 105 apparences for the Latics.

Please don't be the next...Marvin Robinson

vi) Michael Duberry (from St. Johnstone)

The most high profile of our Summer captures, Duberry spent six successful years at Chelsea, including an appearance at the Manor Ground in the FA Cup 4th round in 1999, before joining Leeds United for £4.5 million. His time at Elland Road was frustrating though, as his first team outings were limited due to the emergence of the Woodgate-Ferdinand pairing. Since then, he has represented Stoke, Reading, Wycombe and most recently, St. Johnstone in Scotland. Duberry will provide an experienced head off the pitch, but I fear he could be a clumsy carthorse on it, as he looks to wind-down a career spanning nearly twenty years.

Please don't be the next...Rufus Brevett

With less than one week until Torino depart for their pre season training camp in the Dolomites, Toro have made Chievo midfielder Manuel Iori their 5th summer signing.

After the departure of a number of central midfield players, coach Giampiero Ventura has made strengthening this area of the team a priority, and with continued links to Atalanta's Migjen Basha, Iori may not be the only central midfielder who signs for Torino this summer.

Whilst Iori's parent club is Chievo, the twenty-nine year old spent last season on loan at Livorno, scoring three times in 39 matches. As that statistic shows, Iori could not be described as a prolific goalscorer, and is apparently more of a regista, a deep lying playmaker who dictates the play for his teammates.

Iori has joined Torino on an loan, with an option to sign him on a Co-Ownership deal should he impress.

Torino have made yet another summer signing, with Palermo's Polish central defender Kamil Glik joining the club on a co-ownership deal.

At 6'3, Glik will certainly add some height to the Torino defence, but his arrival could cast further speculation on the future of Angelo Ogbonna, who has been linked with a move to almost every club in Italy. Glik spent last season on loan with Giampiero Ventura's former team Bari, and despite only signing in January, he made sixteen appearances for the club, but was unable to help them avoid relegation to Serie B.

Whilst Torino have been active in the transfer market this summer, the fact that of the signings they have made, none have been signed outright, as all six acquisitions have arrived on either co-ownership or loan deals.

Although this strategy does have its short term advantages (the biggest one being that it is cheaper than buying players outright) it must also be considered to be a risky strategy. If the players who are on loan (Iori, Coppola, Oduamadi) impress sufficiently, then their parent clubs may decide that they know want to keep them, or demand a large fee to make the move permanent. Similarly, should those who have signed on co-ownership deals impress (Ebagua, Verdi, Glik) then the fee to buy the other 'half' of the player will only increase.

Although this strategy is understandable, it would be good to see Torino take a risk and sign at least one player permanently this summer, if only to show some faith in the ability of the players that they are signing.
However, should the players that have already signed help Torino gain promotion to Serie A, then I certainly will not be complaining about whether they are loans, co-ownerships or outright signings.

Torino have added another new face to the squad for the upcoming season by completing the signing of Palermo defender Matteo Darmian on loan.

Darmian (21), who began his career at AC Milan (and they still own part of his contract) is a right back, and featured in eleven matches for Palermo last season. As Torino only have one other right back on their books, the arrival of Darmian is vital, and he will compete with Danilo D'Ambrosio for a starting position.

In his entire professional career, Darmian has only scored one goal, that he scored whilst on loan with Padova in the 2009/10 season. Despite the commentators claim that it is a 'gol fantastico', I think it is safe to say, that the goal was a fluke.

Judge for yourselves below.

To celebrate Osarimen Ebagua goal in Tuesday's friendly against Taranto, (his first since re-signing with Torino), I made this video, that consists of all the goals he scored last season at Varese.

Enjoy!

Firstly, how do you think pre-seasons been going?
It was obviously a good win over Birmingham City the other night.

Yeah, pre-seasons been going really well. It was a great win over Birmingham and it’s good to get into that winning mentality early in the season. We also had a tour to America which went really well as we won two games and drew one.

Were the opposition in America any good?

Yeah, they were better than I thought they were going to be actually. They popped the ball around nicely and so it was definitely competitive.

What does your pre-season training actually comprise? The days of running endlessly round a field are long gone I take it?

Yes, pre-season is much more broken down into separate tests – such as endurance and sprinting. We have individual tests at the beginning of the season to see where everyone’s fitness levels are at and then we’ve done a lot of individual running. Those who are slightly fitter have gone into certain groups, while those who are not at the top end have gone into another group. Also, people’s strengths and weaknesses are identified early on so that those who need to work on their sprinting have had to do more sprinting, for instance.

What do you make of the new signings?

They look really good, yeah. Each one of the new signings has definitely brought something to the squad and they have acquitted themselves very well in pre-season.

Are you at all concerned about Andrew Whing taking your place at right-back?


Look, it’s football, I’ve had to deal with it all my career. I don’t see it as a problem – we needed another right-back anyway.

What are your impressions of Peter Leven – as the League 1 sports writers’ player of the year last year it looks like Oxford have pulled off a bit of a coup there?

He looks like a really good player, but to be honest, each one of the signings offers something different which is exactly what we needed.

Are you disappointed about the departure of any players in particular like Jack Midson or Sam Deering?

The gaffer’s made his decision and he’s done it for a reason, which is for the benefit of the team. He’s looking to progress the team and wants the team to do as well as it can.

And how well do you think it can do?

We have certain goals that we’re looking to fulfil and we’re looking to build on last year’s campaign and do the best we can.