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Adidas 'Jabulani' 2010 World Cup ball developer blasts back at criticism from international goalkeepers
Dr Andy Harland unimpressed with negative comments...
2 Jun 2010 14:24:00
By Matt Monaghan
The developer of the Adidas 'Jabulani' World Cup ball has launched a staunch defence of his design after it was blasted by international footballers.
England goalkeeper David James has described the ball as "dreadful" and "horrible", while Spain shotstopper Iker Casillas has compared it to a "beach ball".
The ball, billed as the roundest ever made, was launched in December and will be used in every match in South Africa. It had been made with a series of grooves on the outside meant to increase the aerodynamic balance.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Dr Andy Harland - who developed the ball at Loughborough University - said the criticism came from the players unfamiliarity and none had contacted him since the winter.
''I've seen nothing that's concerned me," Dr Harland said.
''This ball has been around since December and been used since then around the world with very few comments.
England goalkeeper David James has described the ball as "dreadful" and "horrible", while Spain shotstopper Iker Casillas has compared it to a "beach ball".
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The ball, billed as the roundest ever made, was launched in December and will be used in every match in South Africa. It had been made with a series of grooves on the outside meant to increase the aerodynamic balance.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Dr Andy Harland - who developed the ball at Loughborough University - said the criticism came from the players unfamiliarity and none had contacted him since the winter.
''I've seen nothing that's concerned me," Dr Harland said.
''This ball has been around since December and been used since then around the world with very few comments.
''Teams have gone to altitude and you've seen comments come out in those circumstances.
''We've said all along it would affect the ball, but it should be said whichever ball you play with at altitude is going to be affected.''
He added: ''It's not entirely unexpected.
''Before every tournament players come out and voice their opinions.
''There are no secrets about this ball. The ball is designed to allow the very best players in the world to exhibit their skills.''
Adidas have also released an official statement to refute the claims made in recent weeks.
It said: "Adidas is the world’s leading match ball producer and it’s experience and track record of introducing match ball innovations is unparalleled.
"The Adidas Jabulani meets or exceeds all FIFA Approved Standards, and tests from the University of Loughborough scientifically prove its unprecedented stable flight and laser like precision.
"All federations who qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup were supplied with a first shipment of Official Match Ball’s as early as February 2010.
"Since December 2009 the Adidas Jabulani has been used at the highest professional level in Germany, the Netherlands, France, Austria, Russia, Switzerland, Argentina and South African premier league, player feedback has been very positive.”
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