Sep 14
Sky Sports and the Sun continue to be a disgrace
Pardon the overly extreme headline — and this will be a short one, I promise — but it’s things like these that rub bloggers or independent reporters the wrong way. You would expect the mainstream media to follow basic journalistic etiquette; if it’s a quote you attribute the source, or give credit where it’s due.
About four days ago we had published an exclusive Vidic interview on this site. Today you will have seen the same quotes plastered over The Sun and Skysports.com — I don’t want to link back to those articles but you can easily find them. [Thanks to Stephen Darwin for bringing it to my attention]. As far as I know right now, these are the two mainstream outlets that have published them. None of them credited us. I don’t want to go on a longer rant about doing the right thing, or cry out to them about wanting attention from the mainstream press, but I feel it right to call these people out on this act because I have seen plenty of bloggers face the kind of injustice the press seem to get away with.
*
Rant over. I will post something United related later in the day. Till then comment away.
Related items from Red Rants:
- The 07/08 Manchester United Kit Leaked?
- Sky Sports Fixture Update
- Smith: I’ll leave Manchester United if they sell me
- Worry over Rooney and Vida | Evra’s Abuse | Curbs Plans Weak Squad
- links for 2010-01-19
Tags: Site News
September 14th, 2009 at 11:33
totally out of order, they should atleast credit you.
September 14th, 2009 at 12:03
Looks like The Times has done the same thing.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/manchester_united/article6833237.ece
September 14th, 2009 at 12:36
I hear you RR, also saw your interview plastered all over football365.com
September 14th, 2009 at 12:49
Media cunts, what else can you expect?!!!
September 14th, 2009 at 12:53
Not surprised about The Sun, but that Sky would sink this low wasnt something Id expect…
September 14th, 2009 at 13:37
Cathcart loaned out to Watford…
Another day passes without the world ending after Andersons first goal…
September 14th, 2009 at 13:37
The Times has got comments attributed to Vidic which are the same as the interview. As far as I know The Times is owned by the same company as The Sun
September 14th, 2009 at 13:44
I dont think this is the question of etiquette. it is their obligation to mention origin source by law.
It somethink like stolen project which is selling to others. Not very good, i think……
………..Sometimes it is very surprising how could media publish untruth without punishment………
September 14th, 2009 at 14:02
Hey, the poor journalists at The Times did the same. This is illegal, its called plagiarism in common parlance. Those bastards should pay
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/manchester_united/article6833237.ece
September 14th, 2009 at 14:24
Unfortunately this is just another example of the deteriorating standard of British sport’s journalism. Even the so called quality newspapers fill their pages daily with utter tripe and poorly researched articles by incompetent journalists.
September 14th, 2009 at 14:24
@Uday: I agree. Sue them or mention this thievery to Sun/Times competitors. You did all the work, they claim the glory — sue them.
September 14th, 2009 at 14:43
I don know much stuff about the legal view but I know a lot about being lazy, that right there is lazy journalism and shame on them. Was reading the article on times online and I was like, wait a min, havent i read this before. Times online have it word per word.
I feel you RR
September 14th, 2009 at 14:47
@Footy4Eddy: I dont know you mate but you are the first person that crossed my mind when ando scored. I could only imagine your wild celebration to that goal. Your luv for the boy is paying off. Hope thats just but the begining of things to come.
ps. The goal was a beeauty to see, very well taken and it came when we needed it to relieve the tension our players had.
September 14th, 2009 at 15:21
British media has always been something I despised. Firstly because they are always sensationalist and over the top. They lie blatantly and never get punished. They are probably the most sued entities in the world. Proper definition of rubbish. However I’ve always held Sky News and Sky Sports in high regard. This is low. There should be some way of exposing such disgusting and tasteless behaviour and lack of ethics to the world. Maybe if you could partner with some of ur independent media partners to alert and publicise this incident. I’m disappointed in the likes of Sky esp because I made it a point never to read anything British unless it was Sky.
September 14th, 2009 at 15:25
Btw. The Sun is the biggest form of rubbish ever created. I feel sorry for whoever it is that actually reads such. I can’t even begin to articulate the nature of my thoughts on that piece of lowlessness
September 14th, 2009 at 15:29
Take legal action!! Disgraceful actions by so called “experienced” media. Don’t let it get you down, you’re writing top stuff regardless of what they do!
September 14th, 2009 at 15:43
RedRanter, I think you might have a case for plagarism. I would suggest writing to them. Even if you don’t intend making a case against them, still write.
September 14th, 2009 at 15:44
@Footy4Eddy: Feel the same
September 14th, 2009 at 15:55
RIGHT SKY SPORTS, this is dan speaking, put this on your website:
“Sky sports=CUNTS!”
Same to you sun.
Dumb knobs.
September 14th, 2009 at 16:04
i find it Ironic that the parent company of The Sun and The Times, News Corporation, owned by some tax dodging son of a gun from the land of OZ only the other week launched a scathing attack on State TV stations (The BBC) about taking over too much etc, and here we have a prime example why they shouldn’t be listened to. the only reason Sky and thus its sister companies have any power in the modern media is their jumping on the football premierleague bandwagon before anyone else, but it doesn’t give them the right to not follow proper and correct journalism, say i wrote a paper, and sumitted it without any sources… i don’t think i’d be getting away with it…. but then im not a global media giant… and neither do i have lax and flexible morals.
I’d take action against them RR, even if its just getting Vidic to tare them a new one for missapropriation of quotes.
September 14th, 2009 at 16:10
You should sue Sky Sports mate. Demand money, or at least respect from them. If not take them to the national court, and demand at least £1 million from them for plagiat.
Well, we now know papers and such read these blogs… Why wont players do it then? Maybe even a scout!!!
Sorry lads, but Ive decided. Unless United put in an offer for me, I wont reject the chance I already have. 
September 14th, 2009 at 16:13
@Footy4Eddy: top european club then? does that mean i can sign you on football manager 2010?
September 14th, 2009 at 16:20
@Will: I am still only on trials, but its more or less settled where I am going… But its still early days, wont move until next summer. FM 2011 looks the earliet mate!
September 14th, 2009 at 16:30
My mate have been on trials with United, another one is going to Inter and one who went to my previous school is apparentley going to Arsenal. My mate who is going to United says he is moving there in January or next summer, probably at the same time Im going to my club.
Which unfortunately is below England… 
The English club I talked to didnt make such a good offer as the other ones. Mystery club from England was from London, and a good club. Playing in/at White. 
But as I said they didnt suit my future plans, so Italy is instead the destination. But because of their transfer politics I wont be able to play for them until I turn 18. I will move there next summer if all goes to plan, then play with their reserves from July 2010 to March 2011. If I do well, I may get a try in the first team! 
Ive not signed a contract with the team just yet, but it all seems pretty much settled. Trust me, when things are all done you will be some of the first to know!
September 14th, 2009 at 16:46
Ryan Giggs has scored 149 goals for Manchester United in his career.
99 of those 149 goals have been scored in the Premier League.
If Sir Ryan scores his next goal in the Premier League, it will be two massive milestones reached…
The one, the only, Sir Ryan Giggs!
September 14th, 2009 at 18:07
Hey… isnt it possible to sue those tits and earn like mega bucks? haha plagiarism is illegal aint it?
September 14th, 2009 at 18:19
Park with a contract:
http://www.espnstar.com/football/premier-league/news/detail/item323528/Park-extends-United-deal/
September 14th, 2009 at 18:23
park seem to have got a contract:
http://www.espnstar.com/football/premier-league/news/detail/item323528/Park-extends-United-deal/
September 14th, 2009 at 19:11
@Footy4Eddy: Inter it is then…
I wish you all the best.
Spurs?
well its not like their also known for playing their youth. With Levy still at the helm, its more likely that they’ll spend on big bucks instead of bringing up youth.
September 14th, 2009 at 19:26
RR, I don’t know if you remember but I brought up this kind of thing this past off season when I made several comments or wild predictions like Fergie looking into Buying Torres when Liverpool’s finances were being questioned. Well if you remember it was picked up by a couple of sleazoid journalists and splattered on the web. I am sure these useless rags are all fighting and dying for every bit of gossip and news they can find and I seriously believe they have people on staff who are hired to scour the Internet and check out all the blogs to see if they can find any information or any ideas that may make for good or interesting reading. Truth or validation is of no concern to them and integrity seems to be a word used by them in a bygone era.
In one way you should take pride that they borrowed from you as it is certainly flattering, and in another way, you should be enraged that they stole from you and that you should consider legal action. Christ, I amazed at the lack of professionalism in the English tabloid media as well as even their tv coverage. And we all thought Marca was bad.
September 14th, 2009 at 19:28
@Simon: It’ an example of the domino principle. Once someone has picked it up, then the others will follow. They sure do know how to piggy back each other for a story.
September 14th, 2009 at 19:33
RR, You should write a thread story that is pure fiction like sources within Real Madrid have confirmed a breakup in relations between Ronaldo and Real Madrid and that there are early negotiations going on as we speak for a January selling back of Ronaldo to United for 60 million and Antonio Valencia. Trust me a SCI-FI fantasy story like that will circulate and find life within the hour and confirm our wildest suspicions.
September 14th, 2009 at 19:38
@NicoQB: Its not Inter… With Mourinho at the helm I didnt feel it was right. And to be honest, Inter is a club where bleeding youth is considered a crime.
Didnt think it was the right choice…
September 14th, 2009 at 19:43
Rome is a beautiful city, isnt it…
September 14th, 2009 at 20:21
@Footy4Eddy: Spurs would have been decent. Dunno if roma have a policy for bringing up youth, but im sure you have made the right choice.
Oh, and if united come in for you sometime between now and the summer, dont, tell, fifa…
September 14th, 2009 at 20:56
Roma!!!
With Ranieri at the helm… Hmm interesting choice!
By they will be signing you as Left back or Defensive Midfielder?
But about Inter, funny, I was noew thinking about how the young italian left back managed to break into the team and also Balotelli. Oh well. Do your best mate.
I have a feeling that many of us at Redrants will be keeping an eye on Calcio from now on!
September 14th, 2009 at 20:58
Neville injured!!!!
Anyone else feeling guilty?
September 14th, 2009 at 21:05
@Footy4Eddy: Hope you’re not going in the same suburbs that Macheda came from. No offense to anyone living in suburbia, but his descripition of it was…
Anyways, just do your best!
September 14th, 2009 at 21:08
Eduardo ban rescinded…
They just shit in their pants thinking about te possibilty of setting a precedent that would be used every time someone dived like this.
I would have preferred the possibility for unjustified bans -like Fletch’s- to be lifted.
September 14th, 2009 at 21:16
@ Craig: Belated congrats!!!
Lookin forward to hear from you and little craigy soon mate!
September 14th, 2009 at 21:16
@NicoQB: It could be Lazio.
September 14th, 2009 at 21:19
@Grognard: Its quite true what you say. I’ve noticed on a few occasions recently news appearing a few days later after comments from fans on various blogs.
September 14th, 2009 at 21:21
@NicoQB: @Dan: The thing that made me choose Roma over Spurs was because Spurs only looked at me as a potensial squad player, someone with a bright future. They didnt promise too much, which is alright and I would have picked them had it not been for the Roma representatives telling me they looked at me as the long-term successor to De Rossi.
That impressed me, and they promised me I would be given chances in the first team as soon as I was ready for it. The way in which they seemed confident and gave me the kind of security I needed was vital. Had offers from Rennes, Inter, Køln and Vålerenga as well, but Roma impressed me the most. 
Look out for Eddy! Next Gladiator!
September 14th, 2009 at 21:30
@NicoQB: Im gonna live in the Colluseum, fight the lions as my daily bread and connect with the gladiators! The only way to keep sharp and tough.
Nah, think Im gonna pick a good place. As Ive said before I have family in Italy, so Im not gonna have problems setting in sosially. Im gonna find a nice place, but Im not gonna do anything until everything is written in stone, as they say.
Right now I just wanna do well on my trials and for my team, so I actually can go there in the first place! Roma have brought through some great talents before, Totti, De Rossi, Menez and such are good examples. I can probably come up with a few more sooner rather than later, but I dunno too much right now! 
September 14th, 2009 at 21:38
@NicoQB: Besides Balotelli and Santon, Inters team has an average age of 29.7 or something! Too old in my opinion. I cant come up with any other young players who have come through their academy during the last decade or so… Inter was an alternative, but in the end it was always between Roma and Spurs. It was a really tough decision, but I felt it was the correct one.
Hopefully I am right…
September 14th, 2009 at 21:52
@Cyclops-Red: I just couldn’t imagine Eddie picking the fascists (not sure what that word even means!!!) at Lazio.
I was proven right!
September 14th, 2009 at 21:59
@NicoQB: Yeah, you were right
It was wishful thinking on my part because I’m a Lazio fan.
September 14th, 2009 at 22:02
@Cyclops-Red: Im gonna fuck up your team brutally in ten years time!
September 14th, 2009 at 22:02
@NicoQB: Cant believe I am gonna learn footballing skills from THE Daniele De Rossi…
September 14th, 2009 at 22:05
@Footy4Eddy: Rennes! They are a great team when it comes to converting promising youths into great players. Yoann Gourcuff and Easter Island head can attest.
But enough of these ramblings of mine. Considering that you have family in Italy, I guess the choice was qute an obvious one, so whatever happens I think you’ve made the best decision.
The replacement of De Rossi?! Considering the fact the commenors on the United blogosphere always pined for that guy…
So I guess its DM right?
But, anyway, Roma, I don’t know why, have always been a team I respected.
Oh, and are you sure its safe for you to be discussing about all these things?
September 14th, 2009 at 22:12
@NicoQB: I thought about everything, pro`s and con`s, and in the end I decided that Roma was the best decision.
DM is probably the long term position, but it might as well be across the defence. Thats where I am playing at the moment, but because they said De Rossi I expect it is DM.
And what the fuck are FIFA gonna do? Everything isnt in order with Roma, I havent signed anything yet so wtf can FIFA do about it?! Right now Im only focused on my football, Roma is the long run. Hopefully…
September 14th, 2009 at 22:31
@Footy4Eddy: Its not Fifa, but rather people from Roma who may want you to stay quiet before anything is signed.
Say if another team stats sniffing around you and offersyou more advantageous terms… I personally would advise you not to talk about it until everything is in order. Just safety precautions.
September 14th, 2009 at 23:22
@Footy4Eddy: You decided against the Special 1? What, you’re more “FANTASTIC” than him?
Well the best of luck to you mate. For what it’s worth I would have chosen Spurs because I think you would be more on United’s radar as Fergie doesn’t seem to notice too many great players unless his scouts point them out or unless he plays against them or watches them on tv. With Spurs you would have gotten all three exposure levels. Then again, how long has Fergie got left?
Roma is a class organization and so I would say you chose wisely. Too bad Spaghetti is no longer the manager because he and Fergie are good buddies. After all, in the end, isn’t all about becoming United for life?
September 14th, 2009 at 23:26
@Footy4Eddy: The last team you wanted to go to would have been Inter. You were wise to ignore them. Spurs would have given you more exposure to United but Fergie has many scouts working in Italy these days and from a technical point of view, you will learn much more of the things you need to become a top class international player playing there than you would have learned under the pedestrian old British school of football that is currently the mantra of Harry Redknapp and his entire staff. In Italy you will be prepared for the likes of United whereas Spurs you would be ready for the jump To Everton or Villa.
September 14th, 2009 at 23:30
@Footy4Eddy: You will learn a lot from players like him and Totti etc but you will listen carefully and very respectfully to all coaches and especially when you get the chance to meet and learn from Ranieri or whomever is in charge. These people there are so technically well tuned into the game compared to most British coaches and managers. the fact you are half Italian (or is that a quarter or a third, I don’t remember?) is a major advantage for you. Just do yourself a favor though mate. Do not get caught up with the nightlife of Rome. It will destroy you, trust me.
September 14th, 2009 at 23:32
@Footy4Eddy: And just remember, anybody gives you a hard time, you contact the Grognard and he’ll handle things as your personal enforcer.
September 15th, 2009 at 1:18
so eddy for #7?!
September 15th, 2009 at 2:32
Does anybody know anything about Besikas. I have never watched them and don’t know what to expect.
I would imagine our team selection could be defensive, saving key players for the City game!
Owen and Berbatov to feature, with Macheda coming off the bench.
I see PIG in goal and Brown spelling Ferdinand.
MF could see Valencia, Nani on the flanks with Fletcher and Carrick centrally.
Predict 1-0 United.
September 15th, 2009 at 2:50
RR, that must make you feel like a mug, mate!!
Doing all the leg work and then seeing the glory boys stealing your thunder! Fuckers!!
Did they actually quote word for word, or was it a more subtle imposition on your scoop.
If you don’t have a legal recourse, you may well have a professional upper hand here. The names on these articles could well be brought to the attention of their editors!
If I was you I’d go for it. See what happens!!
September 15th, 2009 at 3:01
In high school and college (in America) we are taught to cite every single little quote otherwise we will end up with a zero (percent; an F) and we have to submit nearly every paper, essay, and assignment to an online plagiarism checker…I am sure these journalists from Sky, Sun, London Times, etc have been taught similarly. You should definitely contact these media sources and demand an apology or £5 MILLION, which ever you prefer..
September 15th, 2009 at 3:11
@Footy4Eddy: Eddy, I wish you all the luck in your professional career and I hope that your choice is the very best for you. Being a Pro player will certainly offer you many challenges, and ones that I’m sure you’re up to.
However could you move all this over to Facebook for general discussion!!
I would love you dearly if you become our very own “pro” to get otherwise unavailable inside info, but I have to say that following your life, so far, on a United blog, leaves me a little unplussed.
You seem like a great kid, and all, but could you not hijack each and every thread with your life stories!
September 15th, 2009 at 4:43
Er, sorry redrich but in my humble opinion the occsional diversions into his life are very interesting. A light break from the silliness of football does no one any harm eh?
Roma? Damn impressive. Build up your career Eddy and make United notice you.
September 15th, 2009 at 4:49
@Redrich: Well I don’t really have a problem with him talking about his pro-football career (anything other than love life/agony counselling etc) but I would advise Eddy to exercise some discretion over what to reveal and what not to in public for his own good.
September 15th, 2009 at 5:00
@NicoQB: Nah, Ive spoken to them during the week and its not that top secret anymore. I wont be going there until 2010 anyways, so its just some pre-potensial discussion. Most of my mates know it by now, and as long as the Media dont find out what my real name is nobody should have a problem with it.
FIFA, Media, most things are in order and shouldnt get fucked up. Not worried. 
September 15th, 2009 at 5:03
@Redrich: Sorry mate, dont mean to hijack every thread with my life. Dont try to do it anyways, but there is a lot going on in my life right now and a majority on this site have asked me to share what happens with my footballing career on this site.
Just thought I would keep you updated. After all, moving to Roma is a big thing… 
September 15th, 2009 at 5:07
@Grognard: Italy is suited my style, as long as the oppositions dont only play like pussies.
But many top class defensive players have come from Italy, like De Rossi, Gattusso, Cannavaro and probably many more I cant remember the name of right now, so all in all I think its the best choice. My only problem will have to be getting used to the slow tempo there, as I like quick football. Im gonna take all the advice I can get, because it will only make me better. Stronger, faster, harder, well just better! Nightlife wont be too big of a problem for me, as long as I can take on my habits from here. Dont drink too much, dance and party all you can, then go to your own or your friends house before its 5 oclock in the morning. 
September 15th, 2009 at 5:10
@Red Ranter: What do you mean by discression?! I kept these news silent for quite a long time!
You guys were scratching your head day by day because I didnt reveal too much right away. I kept you in consideration, and didnt reveal more than the news that I was on the brink of something huge career wise. Didnt tell you which club it was until it was the right time, which is now. I think I did a fairly good job with this case… 
September 15th, 2009 at 5:13
Okey, moving on to bigger and probably more important things United related! Read this and tell me what you think.
Anderson, Rafael, Fabio, Macheda, Gibson, Welbeck, Rooney, Wes Brown, Oshea, Fletcher… But why only 25?
September 15th, 2009 at 5:17
@Footy4Eddy: What I am saying is while it’s great to hear about you — and we are all curious without doubt — it’s my advice to think well before you post everything possible about your playing career because your club/agent may not necessarily like it. You seem to have a good head on your shoulders, and I trust you know what needs to be said and what not, which is great. Just take care that’s all. Wish you the best of luck!
September 15th, 2009 at 5:26
@Red Ranter: Thanks mate!
I understand what you mean, and I did think about it. There was no problem in me telling you guys, so why not?
Shit, Im gonna have to get myself an agent…
September 15th, 2009 at 5:38
@Footy4Eddy: Don’t underestimate the media mate. Just because you never gave them your name, they will put things together through the many clues to your identity that you have leaked over these months. You need to keep tight lipped about this stuff because a team like Roma does not like to be jeopardized in their negotiations by a player who is to free with his information. Believe me.
September 15th, 2009 at 5:46
@Footy4Eddy: And a personal manager once you have made it. Agents deal with many players but a personal manager only deals with your own personal affairs. In many cases many players only have a personal manager who does everything for them and covers for them when they also screw up or get caught in uncompromising situations. Don’t fall for just any snake oil salesman agent who comes a knocking and who promises you the sun and the earth. Check their credentials and who they have represented and who they currently represent. Of course the chances of you finding a better agent depends on how much more you improve as a player and how mature you approach your on coming career. That means easy with the parties and waking up in strange places.
September 15th, 2009 at 6:28
@Footy4Eddy: Mate, Do you play FIFA09 on Hamachi???
September 15th, 2009 at 9:46
As an ardent supporter of this blog,their action is equivalent to the act of stealing.
September 15th, 2009 at 10:51
I heard Roma has gotten caught kidnapping Norwegian youngsters illegally. They will now be banned from buying players in this century
September 15th, 2009 at 10:53
@[OPTI]Madschester United: Roma also have John Arne Riise… I assume you look up to him a little bit due to your norwegian-ness. Good choice and best of luck.
@Footy4Eddy: BTW: Does your move mean that you will no longer be on here providing us with endless optimism and outstanding FIFA vids?
September 15th, 2009 at 18:23
First, I am guilty of accidentally lifting these quotes too. In my case from The Telegraph but since they were everywhere I assumed from a pool interview, where attribution is not required. So, sorry about that.
But this isn’t exactly new. Several interviews I conducted for the old United Rant were lifted by national press. It’s pretty common practice because they figure that you’re not going to sue for copyright theft. Lazy journalists also lift from many political and news blogs. If you really want some retribution just fake an interview and watch them all steal it… and then get fired once you tell their editor what they did.
September 15th, 2009 at 18:41
@United Rant: Problem with faking an interview is the person the fake interview is with may sue for false information.
I agree though, that is the way to teach them a lesson but I still don’t understand why legal resources are not being used against these criminals?
September 18th, 2009 at 7:27
@ Red Ranter
you shud take this up with them and authorities if possible. you shud not sit back. this is called stealing wat they’ve done
