Championship Manager 2007

Features
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Is CM tuning in to FM's wavelength?

In our preview version we had enough time to start tinkering with our tactics based on ProZone's findings, with some positive results. The acid test for this new signing, just as you must judge any prancing import on his goal return, is just how useful it will prove in the final game. We can't wait to find out.

Team talks have also been introduced to complement the series' unmissable attempts to portray the players' personalities and moods that shape the success of real-life managers. Now, instead of simply responding to the gripes, petulance and bowed heads of disenchanted squad members, you can tackle them head-on with pre- and post-match natterings, as well as some half-time rants.

Other improvements are, frankly, no-brainers based on the previous CM outing's obvious shortcomings. One of the key factors, which occasionally made CM 2006 feel as soulless as Randy Lerner chanting Villa songs from the terraces, was the game's newsflashes describing notable events.

Archaic turns of phrase and poorly constructed reports did little to convey a sense that you were in a living, breathing footballing universe, where the press are determined to twist your every word. It seems that most of this text has been re-written, resulting in a far more convincing atmosphere away from the pitch.

Another welcome and overdue addition is the inclusion of international management. This element was bizarrely absent from previous post-SI Champs, though it was released as a free CM 2006 patch earlier this year.

The stand-out feature of this extra string to your managerial bow appears to be the fact that, as national manager, you can approach club managers to get a full and frank analysis of their players. Sounds like a great way to spy on potential signings for your next club.

CM looks to be on course for a successful campaign. So far we've seen some high scorelines, a proliferation of goals from corners and the odd glitch in the match engine, but hopefully these will be fine-tuned in the final version.

And with CM looking every inch as if it's improved again, all eyes are on FM to see just how well the SI boys respond to an increasingly potent challenger.

All of which leaves us feeling much as we do on the eve of the season proper. The big teams are trumpeting their new signings but we've only seen them in friendly action so far. Frankly, we can't wait for the keepers' gloves to come off.