So, having been away sailing the seven seas, spending more time suspended in front of the television kept in suspense by the occasional slam dunk or skating sensation rather than a bit of silky skill, I have finally returned to assess the starting situation for Premiership teams participating in the greatest sport in the world – soccer. Sorry, I mean football.
Arsenal appear to be in a similar position as they were at the start of last season. Fabregas is still being hankered after by Barcelona, only this time Wenger seems resigned to the fact that his club captain may need to be pushed out of the door for the good of the club. The only signing of any significance is a striker from Ligue 1 in France. If Gervinho becomes another Chamakh then the Ivory Coast player may find himself facing the game from the bench for prolonged periods.
Wenger has spent the rest of summer pruning an already thin squad. Clichy and Denilson will both not be wearing an Arsenal shirt next season whilst many other fringe players have been discarded. Nasri may be convinced to stay but Wilshere is now insisting cash be spent. Yet with offers for Phil Jagielka being rejected and new big shots Spurs in the hunt to snatch Valencia’s Mata from the Gunner’s grasps, life is not looking all that rosy for the London outfit.
Aston Villa finished a disappointing 9th last season. It had been a tough year which ended with manager Gerard Houllier departing due to ill health. However, the new season has brought fresh life to Villa Park, snatching Alex McLeish from their dearest rivals to lead the charge. The Glaswegian has been exceptionally busy in the transfer market reshaping the squad with a departing eight that included first team regulars Brad Friedel (free), John Carew (released), Nigel Reo-Coker (free), Ashley Young (£16mill) and Stewart Downing (£20mill).
The loss of Downing and Young is evidentially a huge blow but then again Villa received a huge price for the pair. A small £9.5million of that money has been gambled on the magical feet yet somewhat erratic head of French winger Charles N’Zogbia. Everyone knows he is a class act it is just a case of whether he can produce more moments of magic than madness for the villans. The capture of out of favour Shay Given for a mere £3.5 may prove vital in their bid to reclaim a European spot.
Since the extraordinary sacking of Sam Allardyce last December Blackburn Rovers has been tantalisingly close to the relegation zone. Steve Kean failed to reach the new Indian owners expectation of silverware and with the first game of the season approaching rapidly does not look like he will even provide hope of such unrealistic ambitions. Instead, Kean has seen the departure of talented young centre-back Phil Jones whilst allowing one of the few players who could create magic in the side, striker Nico Kalinic, become disinterested in the club.
Kalinic’s eminent departure from Ewood Park will create space for the arrival of David Goodwillie from Dundee United who will be looked upon to score the majority of the goals. The Scottish striker will no doubt play alongside a re-signed Benjani who scored a whopping 3 times in the Premier League last season. The Lancashire club are also close to signing Serbian midfielder Radosav Petrovic. Yet, with Steve Kean suggesting that India may source an oasis of talented footballers that he would be daft not to look into, I suspect this may be a challenging year for the Rovers faithful.
Owen Coyle had a decent first season with Bolton Wanderers finishing a comfortable 14th. Once more Coyle has raided his previous club Burnley in order to strengthen his squad. Tyrone Mears and Chris Eagles have both made the switch to rejoin their former manager. The only surprise is that Eagles was not snatched up sooner. Nigel Reo-Coker has also been brought into the side to add experience to a well-rounded squad.
Slightly worrying is the departure of on-loan dynamo Daniel Sturridge, who has retuned back to his father club Chelsea. Matt Taylor, Ali Al Habsi, J Lloyd Samuel and Johan Elmander have also parted company with the Trotters. And with creative winger Lee Chung-yong breaking his leg in a friendly this week Coyle may be looking to do some last minute deals to add more sustenance to a side that should once more be comfortable with a low mid-table finish.
Chelsea have reverted to a Mourinho-esk management outfit by employing young 33-year-old Andre Villas-Boas from none other than Porto in order to overcome the atrocity that Carlo Ancelotti provided in only achieving second in the league table last season. Villas-Boas in fact was chief opposition scout for Chelsea in the Mourinho era, moving to Inter when the man himself was taken to Serie A before becoming Porto manager after a successful stint at Academica.
Youth and the future appear to be main priorities for Villas-Boas who inherited one of the oldest squads in the league, one which many have been saying for a few years now needs rejuvenating. Villas-Boas clearly believes this goes for the management too, bringing club legend and highly successful young manager in his own right, Roberto Di Matteo alongside to assist in management duties.
Chelsea have brought in a couple of new players - Lucas Piazon and Thibaud Courtois – and are still keen to purchase Luka Modric but apparently it is the clubs teenagers that are going to be given a rare opportunity to jump up a level. So expect to see the likes of 18-year-old midfielder Josh McEachran, 16-year-old centre back Nathaniel Chalobah and 17-year-old goalkeeper Jamal Blackman gracing your screen. With the aid of a returning Daniel Sturridge from on loan maybe this could be an exciting new era for the Blues.
Everton once more defied all odds to finish a very respectable 7th place last year. Injuries had once more hampered the start of the campaign for David Moyes’ men but once they were all fit a steady rise up the table commenced. The Toffee’s consistently lack a transfer budget resulting in an embarrassing outbidding from Leeds United for ex-Preston goalkeeper Lonergan – he went for £150,000.
Unsurprisingly therefore Everton have been somewhat quiet in the transfer market with Eric Dier the only addition so far and even he came in on loan. Sylvain Distin believes a couple more players need to be added to strengthen the squad; it is just unclear where these players will come from. Keeping influential centre-half Phil Jagielka away from Arsenal is an absolute must. Yet, even with all the hurdles it is nothing Moyes and his side have not cleared before so expect another solid season that will probably see them in a similar position to where they are now.
Fulham had another competent season under the leadership of Mark Hughes. The Welsh ex-international had a hard task to follow after his predecessor, Roy Hodgson, had performed so well with the London outfit. However, 8th in the Premier League was clearly not enough for Sparky who resigned making way for the return to English football for popular Dutchmen Martin Jol.
One of Jol’s first moves has been to bring John Arne Riise back to the Premier League. The Norwegian’s decision to join The Cottagers may have been made simpler due to the fact his brother Bjorn Helga Riise also plays for them. Jol’s other signing, 19-year-old Pajtim Kasami, should add energy to the heart of the midfield. Whether the young Swiss player can help retain Fulham’s high Premier League finish after the departure of Jonathan Greening, Zoltan Gera, Eddie Johnson, Diomansy Kamara, Kagisho Dikgacoi and John Paintsil is yet to be seen.
There is no hiding it, King Kenny came and conquered, revitalising a dejected Anfield side in a season that witnessed far too many atrocious performances under Roy Hodgson. An underperforming Torres made way for one of the most exciting partnerships the Premier League has ever witnessed, Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez. The only question now was how Liverpool was going to create opportunities for these formidable front-men to dispatch. Cue midfield spending spree.
English midfielder Stuart Downing can whip balls in from the left wing or control games in the middle, creating and finishing off attacking moves. 21-year-old Jordan Henderson arrives from Sunderland having raised eyebrows from all the top English clubs, receiving his first international call up in November. He also can play out on the wing, this time the right, but if otherwise needed, can adapt his game for a central role. If all else fails Charlie Adam has also been purchased. Gerrard may be injured at the start of the season but Liverpool no longer rely solely on their talisman it seems. Expect a serious title challenge this year from an attacking, hardworking outfit.
Manchester City achieved what they threatened to do and broke into the elusive top three last year. Mancini’s money has paid dividends in creating a formidable squad full of international superstars none of whom want to be there. Influential club captain Carlos Tevez wants out and now trouble maker Balotelli says he does not like the city. It begs to wonder how United’s side of Manchester is so appealing. It appears you cannot buy a legacy.
To compensate this therefore City have bought what they can buy, players. Gael Clichy comes in from Arsenal amidst mockery that he has never seen a tackle before in a training environment. Sergio Aguero has also arrived from Atletico Madrid with the 23-year-old striker stating his love for both City and the city. I wonder how long it will be before this Argentinean wants out?
Aguero will be looking to score goals this season but one already heated battle may become more intriguing as fierce rivals, Manchester United, replaced retired ex-keeper Edwin van der Sar, with Aguero’s ex-Atletico teammate David de Gea. The 20-year-old is another exceptionally talented Spanish goalkeeper and could make Manchester his home for a prolonged period after arriving so young. Other new arrivals include centre-half Phil Jones and winger Ashley Young.
Sir Alex Ferguson would clearly be delighted if the Red Devils can retain the Premier League title. Paul Scholes and Edwin van der Sar – both retired – will be a huge loss and outgoing men, Wes Brown and John O'Shea, were good utility players however looking at who has arrived at Old Trafford one can only assume that this half of Manchester will be odds on favourites to be sitting pretty at the top of the table come May.
Newcastle are looking to consolidate their position in the top flight of English football after finishing a respectable 12th in their first season back in the Premier League. Alan Pardew is the current manager having replaced Chris Hughton back in December. The toon army are renowned for voicing their feelings on the lack of money owner Mike Ashley makes available to spend on players and this season shall be no different. Only £4.3million has so far been spent on Yohan Cabaye, with Sylvain Marveaux, Mehdi Abeid and Demba Ba all arriving on free transfers.
More ominous for the Magpies may be the exit of talisman Kevin Nolan to a Championship side and the departure of winger Wayne Routledge to newcomers Swansea. Now disruptive Joey Barton has been placed on the transfer list with an asking price of £0 and you have to begin to wonder which direction the black and white stripes are heading. Admittedly, Barton may not be the best player to have in the dressing room but on the pitch his aggression, energy and natural ability will be a loss hard to replace. Plus, it’s kind of fitting that he is in black and white stripes.
Carrow Road has been the setting for many a memorable moment in the Premiership’s relatively short lifespan, not all football related thanks to Delia Smith, and Norwich City have one more season to add to these memories. For relatively short lifespan may apply to their stay in the top flight. Paul Lambert has worked wonders for the East Anglian side, creating goal grabbing attacking dynamos in Grant Holt and Wes Hoolahan. Whether the pair can weigh in when it really matters is the question.
Lambert has brought in many new signings, mostly Championship or fringe players mind. Steve Morrison joins from Millwall after scoring an impressive 35 goals in 83 games for the Lions. James Vaughan has also been snatched up from Everton, with the Premier League’s youngest ever goalscorer failing to break into Moyes’ team on a regular basis. Ritchie De Laet (Man U) and Kyle Naughton (Spurs) – both on loan – should help sure up the defence. But with many new faces appearing at Norwich, can the team gel well enough to stand a fighting chance of surviving this league? I think not.
Trying to emulate last season by finishing above the Canaries is Queens Park Rangers. It has been 15 years since the side last stepped foot in the Premier League although many of their key figures have played here before. Manager Neil Warnock is certainly no newcomer. His feisty attitude should inspire his side to battle hard throughout the season. Keeper Paddy Kenny was part of Warnock’s Sheffield United side that brushed the Premier League, his experience and influence from the back will be vital.
Jay Bothroyd and Kieran Dyer have both been snapped up on free transfers to strengthen the squad. Bothroyd has failed to set the top flight alight before but his countless scoring for Cardiff City has created another opportunity. Dyer has also been floundering of late, but the ex-England international still has the ability to excite. DJ Campbell has also arrived from Blackpool having netted 13 times in the league last season for the Seasiders. All in all though, Warnock’s spirit is their best chance of survival. Adopt their manager’s attitude and QPR may sneak as high as 14th come May.
Stoke City have been somewhat inactive in the transfer market so far this summer. Tony Pulis appears either content with his squad or simply unable to acquire funds to bring in new players. Injury prone Jonathon Woodgate has been brought in for free on a “pay-as-you-play” basis, suiting both parties rather well. Other than that Abdoulaye Faye, Eidur Gudjohnsen and Ibrahima Sonko have all parted with the Trotters but that is about all.
Stoke finished 13th last season which was slightly disappointing for a side with so much physical presence. The Britannia Stadium crowd will no doubt be a weapon used to intimidate the opposite allowing the Trotters to pick up enough points at home to be easily above the relegation zone. If they can used their physical prowess away from home then a top ten finish could be realistic.
In stark contrast to their red and white striped matching army, Sunderland have been extremely pro-active in the summer months. The Black Cats were touted last season as an emerging side that could break into the top ten. Steve Bruce’s men succeeded, finishing in 10th position and will this year look to build on this solid performance. Jordan Henderson’s £16million price tag has provided capital that has been happily spent on a plethora of players.
Sebastian Larsson and Craig Gardner have been acquired from relegated Birmingham, whilst Wes Brown and John O'Shea have been drawn away from Bruce’s old boss with the prospect of weekly football. Ahmed Elmohamady has been made a permanent fixture of the side after being at the Stadium of Light on loan last season. Also Ji Dong-won and Keiren Westwood have been added to an expanding squad.
The bulk of Henderson’s money however has been spent on exciting young prodigy Connor Wickham. The 18-year-old striker arrives from Ipswich Town where he scored 13 times in 65 matches, which for a young striker who probably made a fair few substitute appearances is not an overly poor return. The Englishmen should play alongside Asamoah Gyan up front which could ignite a powerful partnership that many defences may struggle to contain.
Swansea City have become the first ever Welsh team to play in the top flight of English football since the creation of the Premier League in 1992. Their strong, organised defence has enabled them to win multiple points without scoring highly. Manager Brendan Rodgers is surely not confident enough to believe this strategy will withstand the might of the Premier League’s top firepower?
Danny Graham has therefore been bought from Watford, with the striker netting 27 times last season. Partnering Graham could be another new signing, premiership old boy, Leroy Lita. Winger Wayne Routledge will attempt to swing balls into the box having made the Liberty Stadium his home. New keeper Jose Moreira will be charged with the task of keeping scorelines to a minimum as on loan centre-back Steven Caulker arrives from Spurs to sure up a defence that is solid in the Championship but may well be exposed in the Premier League.
Spurs failed to retain their fourth spot finish from the previous season, finishing just out of a Champions League spot in 5th. However, their strength and depth of squad should enable another rally from Harry Redknapp’s men. The Londoners have been relatively quiet so far on the transfer front bringing in youngsters Souleymane Coulibaly and Cristian Ceballos, along with a back-up keeper in Brad Friedel. Yet, Redknapp is renowned for late swoops so Spurs fans should not be sweating just now.
One concern may be the increased interest from Chelsea for Croatian play-maker Luka Modric. Although, influential as the midfielder has been, Spurs probably have enough quality competition in the middle of the park from Huddlestone, Jenas, Pienaar, Palacious, Kranjcar and van der Vaart that will mean his absence goes unnoticed. If all else fails expect Redknapp’s interest in Valencia’s pacy left-wing Juan Mata to intensify. Although, knowing Tottenham, even if Modric fails to go, they will probably buy Mata anyway.
After becoming a dismal failure at Liverpool, Roy Hodgson produced his usual magic in the latter half of the season as manager at the Hawthorns – West Brom finished a remarkable 11th place. The few signings Hodgson has made suggests he wants to stay there. Quality shot-stopper Ben Foster has come in on loan from Birmingham and former club favourite Zoltan Gera has followed his former manager for the second time to create sparks down the other end of the field.
Also being linked with the Baggies is one of England’s best defensive midfielders. Whether Owen Hargreaves will sign is one issue, whether he can prove his fitness is another. However, if Hargreaves’ injury days are behind him then this could be quite a coup. Hodgson will be performing miracles if he can keep West Brom so high up the table, yet realistically, expect them to be nearer the relegation zone then mid-table safety for a prolonged period of the season.
Wigan is a club that has risen in meteoric proportions through the past 15 years. Their days in the fourth tier of English football appear to be behind them as they have become an established team in the Premier League. However, with a nail biting 16th place finish and with little change coming at the DW Stadium, this may well be another squeaky-bum year for Latic fans.
Roberto Martinez at times can get his players producing wonders (1-0 away at Spurs), yet on other occasions they are truly dismal (0-4 at home to Blackpool). If they remain inconsistent relegation beckons especially now that N’Zogbia has left for Villa. Hopefully some of the £9.5million can be spent on new blood but with players like Max Gradel intimating they would rather stay in the Championship with Leeds, who is going to move to Wigan?
Mick McCarthy’s men start with the biggest uphill climb as Wolves kick-off the season in 20th position. The midland team scraped through last year finishing just one place above the relegation zone in 17th, a feat they will be looking to emulate. Defender Roger Johnson has been brought in to sure up a questionable defence. With Jamie O’Hara providing new bite in the centre of the park.
Otherwise, Wolves will be relying on Steven Fletcher and Kevin Doyle to find the back of the net often enough to secure some points for the West Midlands team. Veteran Stephen Carr could be a possible target for McCarthy, with the Irish right-back now in the Championship having been relegated with Birmingham City. Whether Wolves can cling onto Premier League status will be an intriguing contest.
So, that is all 20 Premier League teams assessed, with still just under two weeks before the season commences. Although many of the overall positions these teams will be fighting for will probably not change within that period the next few days will be crucial in finding that one player who could make your club’s task that little bit easier. Either way though, we should be in for another real cracker!
Tuesday, 2 August 2011
Sunday, 27 February 2011
Defensive Bombshell Kills Gunners
Some may say that Arsenal threw away the opportunity to claim their first piece of silverware since their 2005 FA Cup win due to an unbelievable defensive calamity between Szczesny and Koscenly. However, Birmingham utterly deserved their victory over the London side as they prevented Arsenal from dictating the match.
From the first minute Birmingham set out their intention when Zigic controlled the ball, in acres of space, and played in Lee Bowyer who got taken out by Szczesny. The Arsenal keeper was set to see red and a penalty was imminent only for the linesman to have incorrectly flag offside.
Despite Birmingham’s quick start, with Zigic especially getting a lot of joy in the air, Wilshere did impress in the middle of the park. Nasri then found Ashavin in the box, who superbly turned tightly in the box but could only fire at Ben Foster’s legs.
Birmingham’s defence did look susceptible from corners, failing to deal with two in concession however Djourou found the ball twice, yet failed to find the net on both occasions.
Nasri, Ashavin and Rosicky continued to torment the opposition defence however their neat footwork never materialised into a serious threat. In fact, most of the time it never even materialised into any threat as decision making and poor final passing let the gunners down.
On 27 minutes a poor pass by Sagna eventually resulted in a corner for Birmingham. The ball swung towards the penalty spot where Rodger Johnson headed the ball onto the six yard box where Zigic was waiting head and shoulders above a static Arsenal defence to nod the ball home sending the travelling fans into wild celebrations. The lead was well deserved and Arsenal had no plan to deal with the height of Zigic.
From the restart Sagna attempted to make amends firing a cross into Van Persie who went close with a stretched header that whistled past the top corner.
Zigic continued to cause havoc though. The striker knocked down to Garderner before the midfielder neatly put Zigic through one-on-one with Szczesny. However, the striker, albeit a major threat with his head, fails to inspire with his feet, kicking straight at the onrushing keeper.
By this time Arsenal’s defence was in self-destruct mode with Koscielny becoming the first player of the afternoon to find himself in Mike Dean’s book. A mistimed raised foot tackle on Lee Bowyer deservingly seeing yellow.
But in the flick of a switch, classic Arsenal. The Gunners broke from a Birmingham free-kick, finding Wilshere, who started the move deep in his own half, on the edge of the box. The nineteen year old fired a shot against the bar, only for the danger not to disappear as Nasri found Van Persie whose swivelled right-footed volley into the bottom left hand corner of the goal was a rare moment of genius.
The game continued to flow freely with Larsson becoming Birmingham’s first player in the book for verbal complaints. Arsenal’s attractive football created no danger, whilst Alex McLeish’s men kept flighting balls onto their tall centre-forward.
The end of an entertaining first half finally came to an end with Arsenal, despite seeing most of the ball, being extremely lucky to go into the dressing room on level terms. The Blues should have at least scored twice, and possibly should have returned in the second half with at least one more player on the field also.
However, the same set of players returned to fight out the first major piece of silverware of the new season with Arsenal starting the brighter. Rosicky laced a ball wide after another swift passing move as the Londoners began to turn passing into chances.
Sensing danger, McLeish bought on Beausejour to replace a disgruntled Craig Garderner only five minutes into the second half. The lifelong Birmingham fan looked less than pleased with his manager’s decision.
McLeish’s substitute nearly caused instant damage as in an increasingly scrappy game Beausejour battled for a ball up the pitch to set up Fahey, who on his second attempt, smacked the inside of the Arsenal post before watching the ball escape away across the face of the goal.
The game began to die down with the battle in the middle of the park becoming prominent. Ex-Birmingham loanee Nicklas Bendtner replaced an injured Van Persie with 20 minutes to go but did nothing to inspire confidence in the outlook changing.
Arsenal then began to apply pressure with Rosicky firing straight into Ben Foster’s body. Bendtner then wriggled free in the area only find the keeper’s hands in fine form.
Arshavin was then withdrawn for Chamakh in a bid by Wenger to win the game. The Morroccon was soon to set-up Rosicky but once more Foster was there to prevent a goal, before once more diving to palm away a Nasri shot. The Ex-Manchester United keeper won the Carling Cup in 2009 and today’s performance was just as inspiring.
Fahey was replaced by Obafemi Martins with 10 minutes left on the clock giving the strong Nigerian plenty of time to rattle the Arsenal defence, especially with 30 minutes of extra time looming.
His presence appeared to work, as out of nowhere, a long ball gets launched forward by Ben Foster with intended target Zigic flicking on once more. Szczesny came out to claim the ball as Koscielny swung a random leg at the ball before pulling out at the end. The muddle allowed the ball to bobble out to Martins who calmly placed the ball into the back of the empty goal to cause rapturous scenes among the blue half of Wembley with two minutes to play.
After 4 minutes of agonizing injury-time minutes, within which Zigic got a deserved standing ovation from the Birmingham fans when replaced by Jerome, the final whistle blew sending Birmingham players and fans alike into manic celebrations. Arsenal players in comparison fell to their knees in disappear, with Koscienly hiding his face in his shirt.
McLeish’s tactics thwarted an Arsenal side who never really got going with a resilient performance from Ben Foster coupled with the fray caused by Zigic’s height leading to a deserved victory, giving the side their first piece of silverware in 48 years.
From the first minute Birmingham set out their intention when Zigic controlled the ball, in acres of space, and played in Lee Bowyer who got taken out by Szczesny. The Arsenal keeper was set to see red and a penalty was imminent only for the linesman to have incorrectly flag offside.
Despite Birmingham’s quick start, with Zigic especially getting a lot of joy in the air, Wilshere did impress in the middle of the park. Nasri then found Ashavin in the box, who superbly turned tightly in the box but could only fire at Ben Foster’s legs.
Birmingham’s defence did look susceptible from corners, failing to deal with two in concession however Djourou found the ball twice, yet failed to find the net on both occasions.
Nasri, Ashavin and Rosicky continued to torment the opposition defence however their neat footwork never materialised into a serious threat. In fact, most of the time it never even materialised into any threat as decision making and poor final passing let the gunners down.
On 27 minutes a poor pass by Sagna eventually resulted in a corner for Birmingham. The ball swung towards the penalty spot where Rodger Johnson headed the ball onto the six yard box where Zigic was waiting head and shoulders above a static Arsenal defence to nod the ball home sending the travelling fans into wild celebrations. The lead was well deserved and Arsenal had no plan to deal with the height of Zigic.
From the restart Sagna attempted to make amends firing a cross into Van Persie who went close with a stretched header that whistled past the top corner.
Zigic continued to cause havoc though. The striker knocked down to Garderner before the midfielder neatly put Zigic through one-on-one with Szczesny. However, the striker, albeit a major threat with his head, fails to inspire with his feet, kicking straight at the onrushing keeper.
By this time Arsenal’s defence was in self-destruct mode with Koscielny becoming the first player of the afternoon to find himself in Mike Dean’s book. A mistimed raised foot tackle on Lee Bowyer deservingly seeing yellow.
But in the flick of a switch, classic Arsenal. The Gunners broke from a Birmingham free-kick, finding Wilshere, who started the move deep in his own half, on the edge of the box. The nineteen year old fired a shot against the bar, only for the danger not to disappear as Nasri found Van Persie whose swivelled right-footed volley into the bottom left hand corner of the goal was a rare moment of genius.
The game continued to flow freely with Larsson becoming Birmingham’s first player in the book for verbal complaints. Arsenal’s attractive football created no danger, whilst Alex McLeish’s men kept flighting balls onto their tall centre-forward.
The end of an entertaining first half finally came to an end with Arsenal, despite seeing most of the ball, being extremely lucky to go into the dressing room on level terms. The Blues should have at least scored twice, and possibly should have returned in the second half with at least one more player on the field also.
However, the same set of players returned to fight out the first major piece of silverware of the new season with Arsenal starting the brighter. Rosicky laced a ball wide after another swift passing move as the Londoners began to turn passing into chances.
Sensing danger, McLeish bought on Beausejour to replace a disgruntled Craig Garderner only five minutes into the second half. The lifelong Birmingham fan looked less than pleased with his manager’s decision.
McLeish’s substitute nearly caused instant damage as in an increasingly scrappy game Beausejour battled for a ball up the pitch to set up Fahey, who on his second attempt, smacked the inside of the Arsenal post before watching the ball escape away across the face of the goal.
The game began to die down with the battle in the middle of the park becoming prominent. Ex-Birmingham loanee Nicklas Bendtner replaced an injured Van Persie with 20 minutes to go but did nothing to inspire confidence in the outlook changing.
Arsenal then began to apply pressure with Rosicky firing straight into Ben Foster’s body. Bendtner then wriggled free in the area only find the keeper’s hands in fine form.
Arshavin was then withdrawn for Chamakh in a bid by Wenger to win the game. The Morroccon was soon to set-up Rosicky but once more Foster was there to prevent a goal, before once more diving to palm away a Nasri shot. The Ex-Manchester United keeper won the Carling Cup in 2009 and today’s performance was just as inspiring.
Fahey was replaced by Obafemi Martins with 10 minutes left on the clock giving the strong Nigerian plenty of time to rattle the Arsenal defence, especially with 30 minutes of extra time looming.
His presence appeared to work, as out of nowhere, a long ball gets launched forward by Ben Foster with intended target Zigic flicking on once more. Szczesny came out to claim the ball as Koscielny swung a random leg at the ball before pulling out at the end. The muddle allowed the ball to bobble out to Martins who calmly placed the ball into the back of the empty goal to cause rapturous scenes among the blue half of Wembley with two minutes to play.
After 4 minutes of agonizing injury-time minutes, within which Zigic got a deserved standing ovation from the Birmingham fans when replaced by Jerome, the final whistle blew sending Birmingham players and fans alike into manic celebrations. Arsenal players in comparison fell to their knees in disappear, with Koscienly hiding his face in his shirt.
McLeish’s tactics thwarted an Arsenal side who never really got going with a resilient performance from Ben Foster coupled with the fray caused by Zigic’s height leading to a deserved victory, giving the side their first piece of silverware in 48 years.
Thursday, 24 February 2011
Out with the Old and In with the New
Whilst watching another distinctly average European tie involving an English team in red, I began to question the future of English football. Manchester United last night looked to Paul Scholes to create a spark, whereas Liverpool without Steven Gerrard are just not all there. Both fantastic footballers, yet both are organising their pension plans. However, despite this the future of the English national side does not seem quite so bleak.
Liverpool’s right-back Martin Kelly has impressed this season. His willingness to maraud up the field is placated only by his lack of crossing ability. However, given time, which the twenty year old has, he will no doubt improve his final ball. As for his main responsibility, his defending, it is more than adequate. It certainly allows him to push England right-back Glen Johnson out of the Liverpool starting eleven.
For Manchester United Chris Smalling gave another resilient, composed performance, easily one of the best players on the park. His defensive drive enables him to commit to every challenge, whether on the ground or in the air, making him a solid rock that will surely find solace in the heart of an English defence. Although, his long balls are still a little wayward, leading commentators to suggest that when Rio is fit Ferdinand will relegate Smalling to the Manchester United bench, do not be surprised to see the situation soon reversed.
Smalling’s future defensive partner is slightly more ambiguous. Gary Cahill is still only twenty-five but Stoke’s Ryan Shawcross is potentially a more likely suspect. Both are solid, uninspiring contenders, but do you really want a flash centre-back? Martin Kelly could switch to a more central role, negating his runs completely, yet Spur’s Kyle Walker would be a fine replacement at right back.
Replacing Ashley Cole, despite what you may think of him, will be the hardest task. Cole has been consistently England’s best performer for a few years now and remains the world’s best left back. His Arsenal days seem a mere distant memory, but another product from the Arsenal youth academy, Kieran Gibbs, may eventually show his early promise and claim the England number 3 shirt. Though, he needs to push Gael Clichy out of the Arsenal team first.
For the first time in a long time England’s goalkeeper is a position not in doubt. Joe Hart could, and probably should, have had the number one shirt during the last World Cup. However, in a sport where players are playing longer, with keepers already having increased longevity, expect the Manchester City keeper to out see Qatar in 2022 and potentially play in one uncontroversial World Cup setting.
A plethora of young talent should keep England’s midfield ticking over nicely, despite the loss of icons Beckham, Gerrard and Lampard. At the tender age of 19 Jack Wilshere is already my first name on the England team sheet. His exemplary performances, most notably against the midfield passing dynamos of Barcelona, seat him even above his predecessors. His passing, awareness and movement is of the highest Arsenal quality, yet add to that traditional English grit and you find a near complete central midfielder.
Helping to pull the strings in the middle of the park could be one of two Manchester City players. James Milner, although a little older than the rest of the team at the age of twenty-five, adds international experience and leadership. The other option could be to move Adam Johnson into a central attacking role. His pace, agility and natural willingness to cut inside when on the wing means that he could be perfectly suited to provide the magic required when stuck in a dogged, crowded midfield.
If Johnson is not in the middle, he will no doubt express his ability on the right of midfield. However, his repositioning should create a space for a whippet. Aaron Lennon and Theo Walcott have similar attributes, therefore putting them at a constant battle for the coveted number seven shirt. Whoever can gain composure in the final third of the pitch will no doubt get the nod.
Left of the midfield three is Stuart Downing. Another accomplished Aston Villa midfielder could provide both stability and fluidity to the team. A natural left-winger provides balance, but his increased composure could mean that he could play in the middle, interchanging with Milner and Johnson at will during the match.
Leading the line at the top end of the field is Liverpool’s £35million signing Andy Carroll. Whether the frontman is worth quite that amount is one thing but he is still a quality striker. His height creates aerial problems for the opposing defence whilst his feet provide clinical finishing.
Alongside Carroll is the explosive Wayne Rooney. Still yet to fully shine on the international main stage, the Manchester United forward still has time to show his talents. His poor season at Old Trafford will not last forever, expect him to star in future international tournaments.
So on paper the English national side looks to be in good health. The rejuvenating process from a lacklustre World Cup can begin, provided the new blood are given the opportunity, and time, to settle. With Freddie Sears, Jay Spearing, Gabi Agbonlahor, Tom Huddlestone, Connor Wickham and no doubt many more prestigious talents all staking their claims for a call-up depth will come naturally to the squad. And if all else fails, we can always rely on the evergreen Kevin Davis.
Liverpool’s right-back Martin Kelly has impressed this season. His willingness to maraud up the field is placated only by his lack of crossing ability. However, given time, which the twenty year old has, he will no doubt improve his final ball. As for his main responsibility, his defending, it is more than adequate. It certainly allows him to push England right-back Glen Johnson out of the Liverpool starting eleven.
For Manchester United Chris Smalling gave another resilient, composed performance, easily one of the best players on the park. His defensive drive enables him to commit to every challenge, whether on the ground or in the air, making him a solid rock that will surely find solace in the heart of an English defence. Although, his long balls are still a little wayward, leading commentators to suggest that when Rio is fit Ferdinand will relegate Smalling to the Manchester United bench, do not be surprised to see the situation soon reversed.
Smalling’s future defensive partner is slightly more ambiguous. Gary Cahill is still only twenty-five but Stoke’s Ryan Shawcross is potentially a more likely suspect. Both are solid, uninspiring contenders, but do you really want a flash centre-back? Martin Kelly could switch to a more central role, negating his runs completely, yet Spur’s Kyle Walker would be a fine replacement at right back.
Replacing Ashley Cole, despite what you may think of him, will be the hardest task. Cole has been consistently England’s best performer for a few years now and remains the world’s best left back. His Arsenal days seem a mere distant memory, but another product from the Arsenal youth academy, Kieran Gibbs, may eventually show his early promise and claim the England number 3 shirt. Though, he needs to push Gael Clichy out of the Arsenal team first.
For the first time in a long time England’s goalkeeper is a position not in doubt. Joe Hart could, and probably should, have had the number one shirt during the last World Cup. However, in a sport where players are playing longer, with keepers already having increased longevity, expect the Manchester City keeper to out see Qatar in 2022 and potentially play in one uncontroversial World Cup setting.
A plethora of young talent should keep England’s midfield ticking over nicely, despite the loss of icons Beckham, Gerrard and Lampard. At the tender age of 19 Jack Wilshere is already my first name on the England team sheet. His exemplary performances, most notably against the midfield passing dynamos of Barcelona, seat him even above his predecessors. His passing, awareness and movement is of the highest Arsenal quality, yet add to that traditional English grit and you find a near complete central midfielder.
Helping to pull the strings in the middle of the park could be one of two Manchester City players. James Milner, although a little older than the rest of the team at the age of twenty-five, adds international experience and leadership. The other option could be to move Adam Johnson into a central attacking role. His pace, agility and natural willingness to cut inside when on the wing means that he could be perfectly suited to provide the magic required when stuck in a dogged, crowded midfield.
If Johnson is not in the middle, he will no doubt express his ability on the right of midfield. However, his repositioning should create a space for a whippet. Aaron Lennon and Theo Walcott have similar attributes, therefore putting them at a constant battle for the coveted number seven shirt. Whoever can gain composure in the final third of the pitch will no doubt get the nod.
Left of the midfield three is Stuart Downing. Another accomplished Aston Villa midfielder could provide both stability and fluidity to the team. A natural left-winger provides balance, but his increased composure could mean that he could play in the middle, interchanging with Milner and Johnson at will during the match.
Leading the line at the top end of the field is Liverpool’s £35million signing Andy Carroll. Whether the frontman is worth quite that amount is one thing but he is still a quality striker. His height creates aerial problems for the opposing defence whilst his feet provide clinical finishing.
Alongside Carroll is the explosive Wayne Rooney. Still yet to fully shine on the international main stage, the Manchester United forward still has time to show his talents. His poor season at Old Trafford will not last forever, expect him to star in future international tournaments.
So on paper the English national side looks to be in good health. The rejuvenating process from a lacklustre World Cup can begin, provided the new blood are given the opportunity, and time, to settle. With Freddie Sears, Jay Spearing, Gabi Agbonlahor, Tom Huddlestone, Connor Wickham and no doubt many more prestigious talents all staking their claims for a call-up depth will come naturally to the squad. And if all else fails, we can always rely on the evergreen Kevin Davis.
Thursday, 30 December 2010
The Certainty of Football
This season’s squabble has been somewhat of a non-entity. Primarily this has been due to the fact that I have to sit and “admire” the sporting scene across the pond, however the secondary reasons were the real deciding facts.
As we all knew, Chelsea had won the Premier League in early October, demolishing teams with scorelines that the Australian cricket team would be content with. England had the World Cup coming home to them in 2018 with an immaculate bid that no one could compete against. And Roy Hodgson would be seeing silverware next season – if Liverpool could win the Championship that is.
Oh how I love the unpredictability of football. Manchester United now find themselves sitting pretty with an Arsenal team, who look finally able to make the jump up to title contenders, hot on their heels. Manchester City’s money has given them hope, especially since Chelsea have collapsed.
Chelsea’s 1-0 win against 5th place Bolton – unbelievable in itself – was of vital importance in keeping them within a Champions League place. A loss could have been devastating for an aging side with few new signings coming in. Whether this victory will revive them is yet to be seen, but if it does not, could a collapse equal and above the likes of Leeds United be on the cards? Ibrahimovic is not a real fan, do not expect him to hang around for Europa League glory.
The current top three are doing everything they can to help their London rivals however, with each team slipping up against supposedly weaker opposition. None seem willing to embrace the role of being top-dog setting a neutral fan up for one of the most topsy-turvy seasons since the Premiership began in 1991.
However, the unpredictability on the pitch has been equalled by events, nationally and internationally, off the pitch. Roy Hodgson’s Merseyside disaster continues. An Anfield loss of 1-0 to bottom club Wolves does nothing to help his cause.
Aston Villa without Martin O’Neill look like a fish out of water. Everton keep showing signs of improvement but remain lower down the table than expected. Whereas Fulham fans are starting to add up the reasons to panic.
Yet, with these teams being in demise, restoring the table to equilibrium, others are on the way up. Bolton and Sunderland are two of the main winners so far. However, no one could complain about Blackburn’s or Newcastle’s positions either. Except the owners that is.
Sacking Chris Houghten and Sam Allardyce is nothing short of madness, not to mention rude and disrespectful. The only saving grace is that both these men will have no problem getting further employment. It just goes to show how unrealistic owners have become.
Still though at least the owners can bribe their way into fans hearts with promises of investment, record signings and cup glory! Unlike the England World Cup bid team who lambasted every other nation for open bribery, whilst continually giving underhand gifts for prospective votes, only to fail to take into account the Eurovision song contest and realise that the rest of the World hates us.
The home of football had the infrastructure, the most economically agreeable bid and fans that would embrace the world’s biggest tournament with an infectiousness that would mean that nobody would be worried about coming to watch their players represent their country on the national stage.
Instead we go to Russia in 2018 where even black players in Russia’s major league say the fans are far to racist to even consider bringing such an international event to the country. Good luck Africa that year.
This choice almost seems normal when compared to 2022 though – Qatar. Fair enough, they are going to air-condition the stadiums with state-of-the-art technology providing the cool climate needed for football. But what about the fans outside? The ones enjoying a beer? Soaking up the atmosphere with their friends and family? Well, not if you’re a woman of course. Or a homosexual. Oh, and no alcohol either.
Do not fear though, combat this we shall. Let’s just laugh about the situation and play the tournament in winter so it is not so hot. Just in the middle of ever other nation’s winter break or busiest schedule. At least Qatar are a world renowned footballing side.
Logically it is mad. When you think about it seriously we have just handed over a “football tournament” to a country which is no good at “football”. It would be like the nation putting someone in the first round of X-factor – who is in everyway terrible, but is still “singing” – through to the final and then voting for them just because we could do! It would be like saying to the unpopular kid at school, “go organise a party and we will all come” and actually meaning it! Only this is the world’s biggest party and other people wanted to host it! It would be like saying “let’s open up the world’s largest sport to everybody” and then giving it to a nation that excludes blacks, gays and women!
But hey-ho, that’s the way the cookie crumbles. The only way the world cup is coming home in the next few years is if England win the thing, or steal it. Thank goodness though for our domestic football. The energy, style and vibrancy creates an atmosphere so intense that even the best players fall to a well organised Blackpool side.
If my club began with a “W” I would be slightly worried, but not too much. West Ham look like they may become only the second side ever to be bottom at Christmas and stay up – West Brom being the other. The league is just that tight. More outlandish results remain ahead leaving only one thing that is for certain, next season the Premiership will see the return of the mighty, dirty-dirty, Leeds United.
As we all knew, Chelsea had won the Premier League in early October, demolishing teams with scorelines that the Australian cricket team would be content with. England had the World Cup coming home to them in 2018 with an immaculate bid that no one could compete against. And Roy Hodgson would be seeing silverware next season – if Liverpool could win the Championship that is.
Oh how I love the unpredictability of football. Manchester United now find themselves sitting pretty with an Arsenal team, who look finally able to make the jump up to title contenders, hot on their heels. Manchester City’s money has given them hope, especially since Chelsea have collapsed.
Chelsea’s 1-0 win against 5th place Bolton – unbelievable in itself – was of vital importance in keeping them within a Champions League place. A loss could have been devastating for an aging side with few new signings coming in. Whether this victory will revive them is yet to be seen, but if it does not, could a collapse equal and above the likes of Leeds United be on the cards? Ibrahimovic is not a real fan, do not expect him to hang around for Europa League glory.
The current top three are doing everything they can to help their London rivals however, with each team slipping up against supposedly weaker opposition. None seem willing to embrace the role of being top-dog setting a neutral fan up for one of the most topsy-turvy seasons since the Premiership began in 1991.
However, the unpredictability on the pitch has been equalled by events, nationally and internationally, off the pitch. Roy Hodgson’s Merseyside disaster continues. An Anfield loss of 1-0 to bottom club Wolves does nothing to help his cause.
Aston Villa without Martin O’Neill look like a fish out of water. Everton keep showing signs of improvement but remain lower down the table than expected. Whereas Fulham fans are starting to add up the reasons to panic.
Yet, with these teams being in demise, restoring the table to equilibrium, others are on the way up. Bolton and Sunderland are two of the main winners so far. However, no one could complain about Blackburn’s or Newcastle’s positions either. Except the owners that is.
Sacking Chris Houghten and Sam Allardyce is nothing short of madness, not to mention rude and disrespectful. The only saving grace is that both these men will have no problem getting further employment. It just goes to show how unrealistic owners have become.
Still though at least the owners can bribe their way into fans hearts with promises of investment, record signings and cup glory! Unlike the England World Cup bid team who lambasted every other nation for open bribery, whilst continually giving underhand gifts for prospective votes, only to fail to take into account the Eurovision song contest and realise that the rest of the World hates us.
The home of football had the infrastructure, the most economically agreeable bid and fans that would embrace the world’s biggest tournament with an infectiousness that would mean that nobody would be worried about coming to watch their players represent their country on the national stage.
Instead we go to Russia in 2018 where even black players in Russia’s major league say the fans are far to racist to even consider bringing such an international event to the country. Good luck Africa that year.
This choice almost seems normal when compared to 2022 though – Qatar. Fair enough, they are going to air-condition the stadiums with state-of-the-art technology providing the cool climate needed for football. But what about the fans outside? The ones enjoying a beer? Soaking up the atmosphere with their friends and family? Well, not if you’re a woman of course. Or a homosexual. Oh, and no alcohol either.
Do not fear though, combat this we shall. Let’s just laugh about the situation and play the tournament in winter so it is not so hot. Just in the middle of ever other nation’s winter break or busiest schedule. At least Qatar are a world renowned footballing side.
Logically it is mad. When you think about it seriously we have just handed over a “football tournament” to a country which is no good at “football”. It would be like the nation putting someone in the first round of X-factor – who is in everyway terrible, but is still “singing” – through to the final and then voting for them just because we could do! It would be like saying to the unpopular kid at school, “go organise a party and we will all come” and actually meaning it! Only this is the world’s biggest party and other people wanted to host it! It would be like saying “let’s open up the world’s largest sport to everybody” and then giving it to a nation that excludes blacks, gays and women!
But hey-ho, that’s the way the cookie crumbles. The only way the world cup is coming home in the next few years is if England win the thing, or steal it. Thank goodness though for our domestic football. The energy, style and vibrancy creates an atmosphere so intense that even the best players fall to a well organised Blackpool side.
If my club began with a “W” I would be slightly worried, but not too much. West Ham look like they may become only the second side ever to be bottom at Christmas and stay up – West Brom being the other. The league is just that tight. More outlandish results remain ahead leaving only one thing that is for certain, next season the Premiership will see the return of the mighty, dirty-dirty, Leeds United.
The Certainty of Football
This season’s squabble has been somewhat of a non-entity. Primarily this has been due to the fact that I have to sit and “admire” the sporting scene across the pond, however the secondary reasons were the real deciding facts.
As we all knew, Chelsea had won the Premier League in early October, demolishing teams with scorelines that the Australian cricket team would be content with. England had the World Cup coming home to them in 2018 with an immaculate bid that no one could compete against. And Roy Hodgson would be seeing silverware next season – if Liverpool could win the Championship that is.
Oh how I love the unpredictability of football. Manchester United now find themselves sitting pretty with an Arsenal team, who look finally able to make the jump up to title contenders, hot on their heels. Manchester City’s money has given them hope, especially since Chelsea have collapsed.
Chelsea’s 1-0 win against 5th place Bolton – unbelievable in itself – was of vital importance in keeping them within a Champions League place. A loss could have been devastating for an aging side with few new signings coming in. Whether this victory will revive them is yet to be seen, but if it does not, could a collapse equal and above the likes of Leeds United be on the cards? Ibrahimovic is not a real fan, do not expect him to hang around for Europa League glory.
The current top three are doing everything they can to help their London rivals however, with each team slipping up against supposedly weaker opposition. None seem willing to embrace the role of being top-dog setting a neutral fan up for one of the most topsy-turvy seasons since the Premiership began in 1991.
However, the unpredictability on the pitch has been equalled by events, nationally and internationally, off the pitch. Roy Hodgson’s Merseyside disaster continues. An Anfield loss of 1-0 to bottom club Wolves does nothing to help his cause.
Aston Villa without Martin O’Neill look like a fish out of water. Everton keep showing signs of improvement but remain lower down the table than expected. Whereas Fulham fans are starting to add up the reasons to panic.
Yet, with these teams being in demise, restoring the table to equilibrium, others are on the way up. Bolton and Sunderland are two of the main winners so far. However, no one could complain about Blackburn’s or Newcastle’s positions either. Except the owners that is.
Sacking Chris Houghton and Sam Allardyce is nothing short of madness, not to mention rude and disrespectful. The only saving grace is that both these men will have no problem getting further employment. It just goes to show how unrealistic owners have become.
Still though at least the owners can bribe their way into fans hearts with promises of investment, record signings and cup glory! Unlike the England World Cup bid team who lambasted every other nation for open bribery, whilst continually giving underhand gifts for prospective votes, only to fail to take into account the Eurovision song contest and realise that the rest of the World hates us.
The home of football had the infrastructure, the most economically agreeable bid and fans that would embrace the world’s biggest tournament with an infectiousness that would mean that nobody would be worried about coming to watch their players represent their country on the national stage.
Instead we go to Russia in 2018 where even black players in Russia’s major league say the fans are far to racist to even consider bringing such an international event to the country. Good luck Africa that year.
This choice almost seems normal when compared to 2022 though – Qatar. Fair enough, they are going to air-condition the stadiums with state-of-the-art technology providing the cool climate needed for football. But what about the fans outside? The ones enjoying a beer? Soaking up the atmosphere with their friends and family? Well, not if you’re a woman of course. Or a homosexual. Oh, and no alcohol either.
Do not fear though, combat this we shall. Let’s just laugh about the situation and play the tournament in winter so it is not so hot. Just in the middle of ever other nation’s winter break or busiest schedule. At least Qatar are a world renowned footballing side.
Logically it is mad. When you think about it seriously we have just handed over a “football tournament” to a country which is no good at “football”. It would be like the nation putting someone in the first round of X-factor – who is in everyway terrible, but is still “singing” – through to the final and then voting for them just because we could do! It would be like saying to the unpopular kid at school, “go organise a party and we will all come” and actually meaning it! Only this is the world’s biggest party and other people wanted to host it! It would be like saying “let’s open up the world’s largest sport to everybody” and then giving it to a nation that excludes blacks, gays and women!
But hey-ho, that’s the way the cookie crumbles. The only way the world cup is coming home in the next few years is if England win the thing, or steal it. Thank goodness though for our domestic football. The energy, style and vibrancy creates an atmosphere so intense that even the best players fall to a well organised Blackpool side.
If my club began with a “W” I would be slightly worried, but not too much. West Ham look like they may become only the second side ever to be bottom at Christmas and stay up – West Brom being the other. The league is just that tight. More outlandish results remain ahead leaving only one thing that is for certain, next season the Premiership will see the return of the mighty, dirty-dirty, Leeds United.
As we all knew, Chelsea had won the Premier League in early October, demolishing teams with scorelines that the Australian cricket team would be content with. England had the World Cup coming home to them in 2018 with an immaculate bid that no one could compete against. And Roy Hodgson would be seeing silverware next season – if Liverpool could win the Championship that is.
Oh how I love the unpredictability of football. Manchester United now find themselves sitting pretty with an Arsenal team, who look finally able to make the jump up to title contenders, hot on their heels. Manchester City’s money has given them hope, especially since Chelsea have collapsed.
Chelsea’s 1-0 win against 5th place Bolton – unbelievable in itself – was of vital importance in keeping them within a Champions League place. A loss could have been devastating for an aging side with few new signings coming in. Whether this victory will revive them is yet to be seen, but if it does not, could a collapse equal and above the likes of Leeds United be on the cards? Ibrahimovic is not a real fan, do not expect him to hang around for Europa League glory.
The current top three are doing everything they can to help their London rivals however, with each team slipping up against supposedly weaker opposition. None seem willing to embrace the role of being top-dog setting a neutral fan up for one of the most topsy-turvy seasons since the Premiership began in 1991.
However, the unpredictability on the pitch has been equalled by events, nationally and internationally, off the pitch. Roy Hodgson’s Merseyside disaster continues. An Anfield loss of 1-0 to bottom club Wolves does nothing to help his cause.
Aston Villa without Martin O’Neill look like a fish out of water. Everton keep showing signs of improvement but remain lower down the table than expected. Whereas Fulham fans are starting to add up the reasons to panic.
Yet, with these teams being in demise, restoring the table to equilibrium, others are on the way up. Bolton and Sunderland are two of the main winners so far. However, no one could complain about Blackburn’s or Newcastle’s positions either. Except the owners that is.
Sacking Chris Houghton and Sam Allardyce is nothing short of madness, not to mention rude and disrespectful. The only saving grace is that both these men will have no problem getting further employment. It just goes to show how unrealistic owners have become.
Still though at least the owners can bribe their way into fans hearts with promises of investment, record signings and cup glory! Unlike the England World Cup bid team who lambasted every other nation for open bribery, whilst continually giving underhand gifts for prospective votes, only to fail to take into account the Eurovision song contest and realise that the rest of the World hates us.
The home of football had the infrastructure, the most economically agreeable bid and fans that would embrace the world’s biggest tournament with an infectiousness that would mean that nobody would be worried about coming to watch their players represent their country on the national stage.
Instead we go to Russia in 2018 where even black players in Russia’s major league say the fans are far to racist to even consider bringing such an international event to the country. Good luck Africa that year.
This choice almost seems normal when compared to 2022 though – Qatar. Fair enough, they are going to air-condition the stadiums with state-of-the-art technology providing the cool climate needed for football. But what about the fans outside? The ones enjoying a beer? Soaking up the atmosphere with their friends and family? Well, not if you’re a woman of course. Or a homosexual. Oh, and no alcohol either.
Do not fear though, combat this we shall. Let’s just laugh about the situation and play the tournament in winter so it is not so hot. Just in the middle of ever other nation’s winter break or busiest schedule. At least Qatar are a world renowned footballing side.
Logically it is mad. When you think about it seriously we have just handed over a “football tournament” to a country which is no good at “football”. It would be like the nation putting someone in the first round of X-factor – who is in everyway terrible, but is still “singing” – through to the final and then voting for them just because we could do! It would be like saying to the unpopular kid at school, “go organise a party and we will all come” and actually meaning it! Only this is the world’s biggest party and other people wanted to host it! It would be like saying “let’s open up the world’s largest sport to everybody” and then giving it to a nation that excludes blacks, gays and women!
But hey-ho, that’s the way the cookie crumbles. The only way the world cup is coming home in the next few years is if England win the thing, or steal it. Thank goodness though for our domestic football. The energy, style and vibrancy creates an atmosphere so intense that even the best players fall to a well organised Blackpool side.
If my club began with a “W” I would be slightly worried, but not too much. West Ham look like they may become only the second side ever to be bottom at Christmas and stay up – West Brom being the other. The league is just that tight. More outlandish results remain ahead leaving only one thing that is for certain, next season the Premiership will see the return of the mighty, dirty-dirty, Leeds United.
Saturday, 7 August 2010
Premier League Potential
The World Cup excitement, and premature blues, have come and gone leaving behind a suitable gap in which to prepare for the start of the new Premier League season. With managerial changes, player transfers and injuries to look forwardtoo, who is going to be looking strong come May?
In terms of new faces there appear to be very few who will break into the respective team starting XI’s. Arsenal have managed to hold onto influential Cesc Fabregas, whether he will continue to play as strongly for the Gunners is yet to be witnessed. The Londoners young side should be coming into their own this season, with the added bonus of an out-and-out striker in Chamakh partnering a fully fit Van Persie. The departure of Sol Campbell and William Gallas will do them no harm.
Aston Villa are on the brink of losing their main man James Milner, something which will surely be a detriment to both the team and the player himself. A benchwarming spot at Manchester City awaits. No-one is yet to be brought to Villa but once Milner’s deal goes through expect a replacement to follow. With the other teams improving all around them will a top 6 position be possible for O’Neill’s men?
One of Villa’s midland rivals Birmingham had a storming first season in the Premier League, which caused many a low score for the predictors. On-loan shotstopper Joe Hart was one of the main reasons for their success but naturally he has returned to his parent club, so Ben Foster has been snapped up from Manchester United to fill the gaping hole. To finish as high as they did last season is surely not going to happen?
Blackburn may not fill you with excitement but nor do they worry you for relegation either. Their lack of goals may prove problematic. Kalinic will probably score enough goals to retain Rovers position in the lower half of mid table.
The tangerines of Blackpool are illuminating the Premiership for a year and no doubt they will be effectively out of the Premiership before their lights go out for summer. Ex-Rangers player Charlie Adam is the tower of this side; if he gets crowded out Blackpool could be in even more trouble, not that you can finish below 20th.
Bolton are another side who will hear the calls of mid-table boredom. Manager Owen Coyle is astute enough to keep the Reebok Stadium in the top league next season. The additions of Marcos Alonso from Real Madrid, Martin Petrov from Manchester City and Robbie Blake from Burnley are probably three of the best signings this season. Holding onto central midfielder Muamba is also a large bonus.
Chelsea topped the table last season and maybe surprisingly will be fielding a pretty similar team to that of last season. New signings Yossi Benayoun and Tomas Kalas do not look like first teams regulars, whereas Ballack and Joe Cole have moved on. Will the old guard of Terry and Lampard keep this side at the top after such a disappointing World Cup?
There appears to be no new flavour in the Toffee bag either, unless Jermaine Beckford exceeds expectations. Injuries hampered the Merseyside team last season, improving dramatically when all their players were available in the latter half of the season. If all the starting XI remain fit expect a small push for a top 6 place.
Mark Hughes will have a job on his hands achieving as much as Roy Hodgson did at Fulham. The introduction of Jonathan Greening will add some creative presence in midfield, although it may already be occupied by Duff, Murphy, Etuhu and Davies. The loss of Chris Smalling to Manchester United will not aid Sparky’s cause.
Roy Hodgson’s new challenge is reviving a Liverpool side that has slummed out of the top four and into the embarrassment of qualifying rounds for the Europa League. He has managed to keep hold of his major players whilst the capture of Joe Cole on a free transfer is definitely a superb signing. However, Torres is continually injured and Gerrard is struggling to do everything himself. Expect a push for the top 4, whether they will get there is to be witnessed.
One of the sides standing firmly in their way is the cash-flowing Manchester City. The Blues have their sights set on silverware, and lots of it. It’s just a shame the player’s jewellery boxes don’t count. New signings David Silva, Yaye Toure, Alex Kolarov and Jerome Boateng will do nothing for their outgoings, or for their compliance with the new Premiership ruling of only having 25 players in the squad, with 8 of those being home-grown players. Keeping everyone happy is going to be an impossible task. Their summer signing spree is not finished yet either.
In stark contrast to their arch rivals, Manchester United have spent very little this summer. Chris Smalling and Javier Hernandez have been brought in but both have their eyes set on the future. Rooney will be looked upon to score the goals, if he misfires as he did for England the Red Devils could be struggling.
The Magpies are back in the Premiership and expect them to be there next season. They are by far the strongest of the promoted sides and will take no prisoners at St.James’s Park. Smith and Barton have enough to unsettle any visiting team, unsurprisingly though their discipline may be a concern. The signing of Sol Campbell mystifies.
Stoke will be looking to break into the top 10 this season as their large, physical style of football has firmly established them as a middle table team. Tony Pulis has worked wonders with his team and has changed his side very little over the last two seasons. Etherington and Delap will provide most of the balls for Fuller, Sidibe and Shawcross to convert.
Sunderland are one of the teams fighting Stoke for that elusive top-ten finish and this year they may be on the brink of achieving that goal. Jones and Bent will once more provide the firepower whilst Titus Bramble has been brought in to, yes this is right, tighten up the defence...The Black Cats have a strong core that should see Steve Bruce’s men do well this season.
Harry Redknapp’s side will have their sights set on the 4th Champions League spot once again this season. The distraction of being in the actual tournament may hamper their chances of remaining 4th in the domestic league, yet their large squad should help them out. Sandro is the only new signing so far, but then again they already have two full sides that would give any team a good game.
West Brom start the season just one place above the relegation zone and they shall be looking to hold onto that spot for as long as possible. Roberto Di Matteo is a quality young manager, adding a more resolute style to the team that tried to play free-flowing football in the Premiership and won only relegation. They will be there or there about come May, at the bottom that is.
West Ham on the other hand, finished last season in a nail biting 17th place but after sorting out their financial insecurities they will look to establish themselves in the middle of the table once more. The squad has too much talent to be in a relegation battle, supposedly. Parker will once more maraud the midfield with previous Premiership fan favourite Thomas Hitzlsperger – a.k.a “The Hammer” – joining the Hammers. The London side may hope Rob Green remains a safe pair of hands.
Wigan may be one of the teams dicing with death come May. At times last season they beat the top teams, at other times they were demolished or beaten by a poor outfit. Consistency is the key in this league and Wigan don’t have it. All hope will be on the new signing Mauro Boselli but how often do new foreign strikers settle easily in the Premiership?
The final team, Wolves, face a similar fate as Wigan. Every match will be a battle, with every point key to staying another year in the top league in England. Steven Fletcher has been snapped-up from relegated Burnley for £6.5million, as has Stephen Hunt from Hull City for a mere £3million. Buying previously relegated players does not bode well.
It is clear the Premiership is going to be tight this season, whether it be at the top or the bottom. It may be that three distinct mini-leagues appear within the main affair. Of course there are always teams that do better than expected, as well as the one team that struggles. Who will it be this season? You decide.
In terms of new faces there appear to be very few who will break into the respective team starting XI’s. Arsenal have managed to hold onto influential Cesc Fabregas, whether he will continue to play as strongly for the Gunners is yet to be witnessed. The Londoners young side should be coming into their own this season, with the added bonus of an out-and-out striker in Chamakh partnering a fully fit Van Persie. The departure of Sol Campbell and William Gallas will do them no harm.
Aston Villa are on the brink of losing their main man James Milner, something which will surely be a detriment to both the team and the player himself. A benchwarming spot at Manchester City awaits. No-one is yet to be brought to Villa but once Milner’s deal goes through expect a replacement to follow. With the other teams improving all around them will a top 6 position be possible for O’Neill’s men?
One of Villa’s midland rivals Birmingham had a storming first season in the Premier League, which caused many a low score for the predictors. On-loan shotstopper Joe Hart was one of the main reasons for their success but naturally he has returned to his parent club, so Ben Foster has been snapped up from Manchester United to fill the gaping hole. To finish as high as they did last season is surely not going to happen?
Blackburn may not fill you with excitement but nor do they worry you for relegation either. Their lack of goals may prove problematic. Kalinic will probably score enough goals to retain Rovers position in the lower half of mid table.
The tangerines of Blackpool are illuminating the Premiership for a year and no doubt they will be effectively out of the Premiership before their lights go out for summer. Ex-Rangers player Charlie Adam is the tower of this side; if he gets crowded out Blackpool could be in even more trouble, not that you can finish below 20th.
Bolton are another side who will hear the calls of mid-table boredom. Manager Owen Coyle is astute enough to keep the Reebok Stadium in the top league next season. The additions of Marcos Alonso from Real Madrid, Martin Petrov from Manchester City and Robbie Blake from Burnley are probably three of the best signings this season. Holding onto central midfielder Muamba is also a large bonus.
Chelsea topped the table last season and maybe surprisingly will be fielding a pretty similar team to that of last season. New signings Yossi Benayoun and Tomas Kalas do not look like first teams regulars, whereas Ballack and Joe Cole have moved on. Will the old guard of Terry and Lampard keep this side at the top after such a disappointing World Cup?
There appears to be no new flavour in the Toffee bag either, unless Jermaine Beckford exceeds expectations. Injuries hampered the Merseyside team last season, improving dramatically when all their players were available in the latter half of the season. If all the starting XI remain fit expect a small push for a top 6 place.
Mark Hughes will have a job on his hands achieving as much as Roy Hodgson did at Fulham. The introduction of Jonathan Greening will add some creative presence in midfield, although it may already be occupied by Duff, Murphy, Etuhu and Davies. The loss of Chris Smalling to Manchester United will not aid Sparky’s cause.
Roy Hodgson’s new challenge is reviving a Liverpool side that has slummed out of the top four and into the embarrassment of qualifying rounds for the Europa League. He has managed to keep hold of his major players whilst the capture of Joe Cole on a free transfer is definitely a superb signing. However, Torres is continually injured and Gerrard is struggling to do everything himself. Expect a push for the top 4, whether they will get there is to be witnessed.
One of the sides standing firmly in their way is the cash-flowing Manchester City. The Blues have their sights set on silverware, and lots of it. It’s just a shame the player’s jewellery boxes don’t count. New signings David Silva, Yaye Toure, Alex Kolarov and Jerome Boateng will do nothing for their outgoings, or for their compliance with the new Premiership ruling of only having 25 players in the squad, with 8 of those being home-grown players. Keeping everyone happy is going to be an impossible task. Their summer signing spree is not finished yet either.
In stark contrast to their arch rivals, Manchester United have spent very little this summer. Chris Smalling and Javier Hernandez have been brought in but both have their eyes set on the future. Rooney will be looked upon to score the goals, if he misfires as he did for England the Red Devils could be struggling.
The Magpies are back in the Premiership and expect them to be there next season. They are by far the strongest of the promoted sides and will take no prisoners at St.James’s Park. Smith and Barton have enough to unsettle any visiting team, unsurprisingly though their discipline may be a concern. The signing of Sol Campbell mystifies.
Stoke will be looking to break into the top 10 this season as their large, physical style of football has firmly established them as a middle table team. Tony Pulis has worked wonders with his team and has changed his side very little over the last two seasons. Etherington and Delap will provide most of the balls for Fuller, Sidibe and Shawcross to convert.
Sunderland are one of the teams fighting Stoke for that elusive top-ten finish and this year they may be on the brink of achieving that goal. Jones and Bent will once more provide the firepower whilst Titus Bramble has been brought in to, yes this is right, tighten up the defence...The Black Cats have a strong core that should see Steve Bruce’s men do well this season.
Harry Redknapp’s side will have their sights set on the 4th Champions League spot once again this season. The distraction of being in the actual tournament may hamper their chances of remaining 4th in the domestic league, yet their large squad should help them out. Sandro is the only new signing so far, but then again they already have two full sides that would give any team a good game.
West Brom start the season just one place above the relegation zone and they shall be looking to hold onto that spot for as long as possible. Roberto Di Matteo is a quality young manager, adding a more resolute style to the team that tried to play free-flowing football in the Premiership and won only relegation. They will be there or there about come May, at the bottom that is.
West Ham on the other hand, finished last season in a nail biting 17th place but after sorting out their financial insecurities they will look to establish themselves in the middle of the table once more. The squad has too much talent to be in a relegation battle, supposedly. Parker will once more maraud the midfield with previous Premiership fan favourite Thomas Hitzlsperger – a.k.a “The Hammer” – joining the Hammers. The London side may hope Rob Green remains a safe pair of hands.
Wigan may be one of the teams dicing with death come May. At times last season they beat the top teams, at other times they were demolished or beaten by a poor outfit. Consistency is the key in this league and Wigan don’t have it. All hope will be on the new signing Mauro Boselli but how often do new foreign strikers settle easily in the Premiership?
The final team, Wolves, face a similar fate as Wigan. Every match will be a battle, with every point key to staying another year in the top league in England. Steven Fletcher has been snapped-up from relegated Burnley for £6.5million, as has Stephen Hunt from Hull City for a mere £3million. Buying previously relegated players does not bode well.
It is clear the Premiership is going to be tight this season, whether it be at the top or the bottom. It may be that three distinct mini-leagues appear within the main affair. Of course there are always teams that do better than expected, as well as the one team that struggles. Who will it be this season? You decide.
Sunday, 13 June 2010
USA
The USA still have not come round to the sport of soccer as much as the other much beloved sports across the pond. However, an opening match in this year’s World Cup against the home of football provides the team with an opportunity to ignite a fury of excitement amongst Americans if a result can be achieved.
The USA naturally walked through qualifying beating Barbados 8-0 at the start of the campaign. They topped the third stage of qualifying when put against the best CONCACAF could offer and have now, despite being placed with England, been landed with a relatively straight forward group.
Group C hosts England, Slovenia and Algeria. England will be favourites, yet their recently poor showing at World Cups will probably mean they are one of the weaker seeded sides, giving the USA hope of at least a point, and maybe more. Slovenia and Algeria should both be overcome by an USA side with increasingly talent.
The USA’s main strength is their fitness. This is unsurprisingly for a nation that places a lot of emphasis on running for long periods at a quick pace. This increased stamina allows manager Bob Bradley to play a 4-4-2 formation, with the left and right-backs both given the licence to join in the attack as wing-backs.
Johnathan Spector and captain Carlos Bocanegra will play this role well. Both of them have experience with British clubs and so will know the English game well. Spector and Bocanegra have an all-round ability which allows them to push forward, yet they can also play anywhere along the back four.
In Tim Howard the USA have an excellent goalkeeper. Having played for Manchester United and Everton his reading of the English game will also be vital. He has been consistently strong for the Toffees so do not expect him to leak easy goals.
His two central defenders however, have been known to be susceptible to errors. Jay DeMerit and Oguchi Onyewu are both extremely physical players. Expect them to winch out of no challenge. Their over-the-top presence can be exploited though.
The midfield four of Donovan, Bradley, Clark and Dempsey are the bed-rock of the team. Donovan, Bradley and Dempsey all weighed in with 5 goals during qualification which is high for midfielders. Donovan and Dempsey will terrorise the wings, giving opposing full-backs a torrid time.
Donovan has 120caps for his country already, at the surprisingly young age of just 28 – the receding hairline clearly not an accurate representation. His 42 goals for the country make him also the USA’s all-time leading goalscorer. His brief spell at Everton was a great success. As for Dempsey his time at Fulham has been full of success, helping them reach the UEFA Cup Final this summer.
Hull City’s Jozy Altidore will lead the line up top. The 20 year olds presence will be felt by marking defenders. His 6 goals in qualifying made him the USA’s top goalscorer in the campaign. He will be expected to add to his goals for the nation.
The USA had an unexpected good Confederations Cup in 2009, beating Spain – the only team to do so in over 40 games the Spanish have played – and pushing Brazil in the Final. However, whether they can continue this run of form against the top teams is to be witnessed.
In their favour they do have a group that makes progression to the last 16 almost a guarantee. To lose out against Algeria or Slovenia would be a surprise. Once through the group stage better opposition await, yet on their day they can beat anyone. Let’s just hope they do not beat England on their way.
The USA naturally walked through qualifying beating Barbados 8-0 at the start of the campaign. They topped the third stage of qualifying when put against the best CONCACAF could offer and have now, despite being placed with England, been landed with a relatively straight forward group.
Group C hosts England, Slovenia and Algeria. England will be favourites, yet their recently poor showing at World Cups will probably mean they are one of the weaker seeded sides, giving the USA hope of at least a point, and maybe more. Slovenia and Algeria should both be overcome by an USA side with increasingly talent.
The USA’s main strength is their fitness. This is unsurprisingly for a nation that places a lot of emphasis on running for long periods at a quick pace. This increased stamina allows manager Bob Bradley to play a 4-4-2 formation, with the left and right-backs both given the licence to join in the attack as wing-backs.
Johnathan Spector and captain Carlos Bocanegra will play this role well. Both of them have experience with British clubs and so will know the English game well. Spector and Bocanegra have an all-round ability which allows them to push forward, yet they can also play anywhere along the back four.
In Tim Howard the USA have an excellent goalkeeper. Having played for Manchester United and Everton his reading of the English game will also be vital. He has been consistently strong for the Toffees so do not expect him to leak easy goals.
His two central defenders however, have been known to be susceptible to errors. Jay DeMerit and Oguchi Onyewu are both extremely physical players. Expect them to winch out of no challenge. Their over-the-top presence can be exploited though.
The midfield four of Donovan, Bradley, Clark and Dempsey are the bed-rock of the team. Donovan, Bradley and Dempsey all weighed in with 5 goals during qualification which is high for midfielders. Donovan and Dempsey will terrorise the wings, giving opposing full-backs a torrid time.
Donovan has 120caps for his country already, at the surprisingly young age of just 28 – the receding hairline clearly not an accurate representation. His 42 goals for the country make him also the USA’s all-time leading goalscorer. His brief spell at Everton was a great success. As for Dempsey his time at Fulham has been full of success, helping them reach the UEFA Cup Final this summer.
Hull City’s Jozy Altidore will lead the line up top. The 20 year olds presence will be felt by marking defenders. His 6 goals in qualifying made him the USA’s top goalscorer in the campaign. He will be expected to add to his goals for the nation.
The USA had an unexpected good Confederations Cup in 2009, beating Spain – the only team to do so in over 40 games the Spanish have played – and pushing Brazil in the Final. However, whether they can continue this run of form against the top teams is to be witnessed.
In their favour they do have a group that makes progression to the last 16 almost a guarantee. To lose out against Algeria or Slovenia would be a surprise. Once through the group stage better opposition await, yet on their day they can beat anyone. Let’s just hope they do not beat England on their way.
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