So as we await this coming Sundays game against Independiente (always a barn burner there folks), here is what is happening in the world of Boca:

+ Martin Palermo’s injury has opened up a trade deadline extension exemption for the team (say that five times fast) – meaning Boca is able to continue shopping the world for a suitable forward. The latest news comes from Manchester City. Equadorian striker Felipe Caicedo was offered to the X’s on loan – and Boca rejected the deal. Why? Well, there is a youth surge in town, and with Noir and Viatri chomping at the bit for more pitch time, it would only spell greater fortunes and transfer dollars in the future. Basically, there is no rush – Boca leads the Apertura table with a game in hand, and have had no issues scoring. Defense, on the other hand . . . .

+ By the way, in the present club world rankings, judged by the IFFHS, Boca comes in at a solid 4th, just behind Man U, Barcelona and Chelsea. River Plate? They are laying eggs at the 21st spot. Siempre nuestros hijos . . .

+ AC Milan VP Galiani has heaped praise onto Boca for equaling his clubs record of 18 international tournament victories. 18! Anyway, just felt like throwing this one out there – you can never have enough news about Boca’s dominance and respect worldwide!

+ Lucas Viatri is taking advantage of the loss of Palermo and his recent good form to begin contract negociations with the Xeneizes. A Boca Rep has stated that they have offered a solid 4,000 pesos monthly for his services. Dont freak out – Viatri has stated all intentions and desires to sign with Boca and has no current interest in leaving the legendary club for greener pastures overseas. I think he would be a steal at 4,000 a month, dont you?

+ And finally, I have to report on Carlitos Tevez, who for a second time this WCQ, has been issued a critical red card. An interesting article out of Peru gets indepth with the ex Boca striker, where he admits his guilt and repentance for his actions and expounds on the fact that playing along side such greats as Messi, Riquelme, and Aguero “proves difficult” because of the clash in playing styles. Read in spanish? Then read this!

So there is your round up! Comments? Questions? Hit me up . . .

Martin Palermo, the long legged, larged bodied, clutch forward main stay of Boca Juniors fame, suffered the most bizarre MCL tear. This one is feared worse than a previous knee injury that cost Palermo his 1999 campaign.

He collided on a mid air jump ball with a Lanus defender, when it seemed they might have knocked heads. Palermo, who is well known in Bostero fame as a rather awkward looking player on the field, once again fell in an awkward way, as his leg touched the ground first and was bent sideways by the momentum of his falling body. Innocent looking at regular speed, but when you put on that super slow mo, its clear that this would be a serious one. This has left Boca looking for an able body to cover in the place of Palermo, at least till the 2009 Libertadores.

Boca has proven early this season to be able to deal well in the face of roster depletion and adversity. Just imagine that they managed to beat the defending Apertura champions in Lanus without Palacio, Riquelme, Palermo (for the most part), Mozon, Caranta or Datolo. But will they be able to last a grueling season without their large target man? Share your thoughts!

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