Sorry it has been so long since my last post, it's been a hectic week at my real job! I hope you enjoyed my Premier League Previews so I'm now going to cast my glance towards the N-Power Championship. This will consist of smaller write-ups on the teams as naturally there is not quite the same big names and interest as there is on the Premier League.
Barnsley
Chances:
Barnsley have been perennial strugglers at this level and have been in and around the relegation places for the past few seasons. With Simon Davey now having left for pastures new I see a season of struggle, with a distinct possibility of the drop this time. Currently only 14 players on the books with a week until kick-off looks like a recipe for disaster to me.
Key Man:
Iain Hume; Having recovered from having his skull caved in by 'footballer' Chris Morgan Hume will be key to the Tykes chances. They have never been prolific scorers and most of the responsibility for goals will fall on Hume. Whether he lives up to this will go a long way to deciding their fate.
Bristol City
Chances:
Bristol have traditionally hovered around the play-off places only to fall away and miss out. This season though, I think they could bridge the gap and make a promotion push in what looks to me like a wide-open league. In David James, Lewin Nyatanga, Marvin Elliot and Nicky Maynard they look to have a very strong spine.
Key Man:
Nicky Maynard; Teams in this division tend to do well if they have a man banging in the goals. With no stand out teams this year that may be even more important. Therefore it could not be a better time for Maynard to fulfil his potential and bag over 20 goals.
Burnley
Chances:
Having lost only a few players since relegation from the Premier League it will be expected that Burnley will make a push for an immediate return. Players like Clarke Carlisle and Brian Jensen are seasoned pro's at this level and should provide a solid backline. If Martin Paterson can step up now that Steven Fletcher has left an immediate return could be on the cards.
Key Man:
Clarke Carlisle; The 'brightest man in football' needs to really perform this year. Whilst he didn't disgrace himself last year, he did look out of his depth at times. Burnley's defence has traditionally tight and they will need Carlisle leading them to provide that base.
Cardiff City
Chances:
In keeping Dave Jones in the managerial hotseat Cardiff have given themselves a much improved chance at another push for promotion. A proven manager at this level Jones has shown he can get the most from a relatively tight budget. He has been greatly aided by the brilliant academy at the club which continues to churn out promising young players who seem unphased by playing first team football.
Key Man:
Peter Whittingham; The wide man was top scorer last year and holding on to him is key to Cardiff's chances this year. As well as providing an obvious goal threat, Whittingham weighs in with more than his share of assists too. With cardiff in debt he should be the last man they think of selling to balance the books.
Coventry City
Chances:
Chris 'Cookie' Coleman has now left and been replaced by Aidy Boothroyd the fans will be hoping for Boothroyd to repeat his heroics in getting Watford promoted. They might have to wait a season for this as this Coventry team lacks real quality or experience. There are some good players like Westwood in goal and Eastwood and the returning McSheffrey up front, but in general the lack of depth may hinder a push this year.
Key Man:
Kieran Westwood; With a seeming decline in the real top quality goalkeepers in the game at the moment it is a wonder Westwood hasn't been snapped up. A brilliant shot-stopper and calming presence who is still young, with the new homegrown rules coming in I am suprised a Premier League team hasn't tested Coventry's resolve with a bid. If he stays expect Coventry to finish around mid-table.
Crystal Palace
Chances:
Last season Palace did well in the face of a 10 point deduction to finish above the relegation places. George Burley has worked wonders at this level before with Ipswich and a fairly tight budget and the fans will be hoping for more of the same. Such are the financial restrictions placed on him this time that a play-off challenge will probably be beyond them.
Key Man:
Darren Ambrose; Last season Ambrose really stepped up in a more senior role. He showed potential whilst at Ipswich and in flashes following a move to Newcastle, but seemed to have fallen away. Last year though, in a more central role, he shone. He was scoring cracking goals and providing assists, Palace will need a repeat to make any sort of challenge this year.
Derby County
Chances:
I get the impression that Nigel Clough is out of his comfort zone at Derby and I don't see him lasting long if County start badly. He has been given longer than most on the back of his Dad being such a club legend, but that extended welcome is worn out. He's had time to build a team and I don't think that team is good enough. My worry is that if he leaves Robbie Savage might take the reigns!
Key Man:
Robbie Savage; Love him or hate him, I'd imagine most are the latter, Savage is a good player at this level. His experience shows every game and he provides leadership in abundance as well as deflecting attention from underperforming team-mates with his 'antics'. They will need another fine season from him this year to avoid getting into a relegation scrap.
Doncaster Rovers
Chances:
I've seen a few people tipping them as a suprise package this season and I'd go some way to agreeing with that. They play football the 'right' way so I would expect a certain amount of goodwill is earnt from this, but they did impress towards the end of last season. They again look a bit too suspect at the back for me to tip them for a promtion push, bu they should steer clear of another relegation scrap.
Key Man:
James Hayter; An uncomplicated goalscorer is what you get from Hayter. Goals go a long way in this division so if he can find the net regularly Donny could have a better season than in recent memory, maybe a cup run too? He has been injury prone in previous campaigns and will do well to stay fit this year, he'd make a good outsider for top goalscorer I think.
Hull City
Chances:
Still without a real manager with the limbo with Phil Brown contnuing Hull could really struggle if they don't find some consistency on and off the field. 2 of their better players have already left in Stephen Hunt and Boaz Myhill and they haven't really been linked with anyone improve the current squad. They should be too good to go down, but if you want a good long odds shout for relegation, they would be my tip.
Key Man:
Matt Duke; With Myhill leaving this is Duke's opportunity to cement his promise with a regular starting spot in goal. I would imagine Hull's porous defence would give him plenty of practice, especially with Mouyokolo gone, so he will need to be in top form this season.
Ipswich Town
Chances:
In short, who knows!? With Marcus Evans money behind them and Roy Keane in charge many expected a repeat of when Sunderland bought their way up under Royston. However, this nevr happened and many are beginning to question whether that Sunderland season was a fluke and whether Keane is really cut out for management. I have my suspicions. Whilst Keane's hardline approach is commendable in the face of the general twattiness of the modern player, whether it is successful is debatable. Either way, I see a parting of company by Christmas if they aren't challenging.
Key Man:
Connor Wickham; The man who has apparently been the subject of some large bids from both Arsenal and Tottenham would do well to prove he's worth it in his first full season this year. I haven't seen enough of him to make a proper judgement, but I hope he's not just all physique and no real ability, interest from Arsene Wenger would suggest otherwise.
Leeds United
Chances:
They have certainly been busy building an improved squad this summer and with the league there for the taking I can understand that. Losing Jermaine Beckford to Everton will be a blow, but they have known since Christmas he was likely to go so should have planned for that eventuality. Billy Paynter is an astute signing, he will score plenty and will provide the workrate perhaps missing from Beckford's game. Kasper Schmeicel in goal too should be able to make the step-up to this level with ease.
Key Man:
Patrick Kisnorbo; In all the assessments of why Leeds fell away after Christmas last year the most sensible view was that they missed Kisnorbo at the back. He is vastly experienced and a large presence and they will be glad to see him taking his place at the heart of the defence for the start of the season. With goals and creativity not really a problem, if Kisnorbo can make them solid at the back then they might push for a return to the Premier League this season.
Saturday, 31 July 2010
Saturday, 24 July 2010
Part 4 of 4...
The last of my Premier League previews is here! I hope you've enjoyed them so far and I would be interested to hear your views on my opinions and any general feedback on the blog in general. But, let's crack on with the previews...
Tottenham Hotspurs
Now, you might have noticed from previous posts that I am not a huge fan of Harry 'Top, top, sloppy chops' Redknapp or his moron of a son. I'd like to start this off by having a little chuckle that Harry didn't get Joe Cole. Not because I think he'd have been any good, but because Redknapp obviously tought his 'ingenious' transfer methods were going to pay off and they didn't. Maybe he should have put a bit more in the brown paper bag? Having said all this, obviously Tottenham have now got a perfectly good team, as evidenced by their fourth place finish last year. So far though they have not been very active in adding to a squad that looked pretty thin to me last year. And with Man City spending big on good players that should be a worry for Spurs fans. Tottenham's strength is in their core of above average Premier League players in every position, and in Luka Modric I think they have a potentially world class one too. For all Harry's wheeling and dealing though they still don't possess a player that can set the league alight like their competitors do. If they were to get Luis Fabiano that might do it, but I think he'll end up in Italy myself. I can see an early European exit followed by a hangover in the league which lets Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester's City and United get a lead they wont overcome. I think they will return to their, perhaps rightful, position of between 5th and 8th in the league. I think they came good at the right itme last year, but I don't see that being repeated, especially not with Redknapp and his limited tactics.
West Bromwich Albion
The perennial yo-yo team return to the Premier League with the question being, can they stay up this time? Sadly I think the answer is a resounding No! Di Matteo seems a good manager at Championship level, but I think he'll struggle to make the step up with only 3 years management experience under his belt. Looking at the team he has assembled, it look like a Championship team, and there have been no additions to change that view. Graham Dorrans looked like the spark in the team last year, and I would expect him to impress, but other than that they look weak. They shipped goals last year and they will come up against considerably better strikeforces at this level. The release of Robert Koren was a strange decision, he was an experienced international player who looked able to put his foot on the ball and dictate things. Similarly Borja Valero impressed me whilst on loan in Spain last year, letting him go was an error in my opinion. I can foresee a season of struggle and they'll probably only stay off the foot of the table due to Blackpool's hopelessness.
West Ham
Under Gianfranco Zola last year West Ham were desperately poor at times. I went to the Stoke fixture at Upton Park towards the end of the season and was truly shocked by the lack of direction the team had. As nice a man and brilliant a player Zola was, a change needed to be made. I think they picked Avram Gran purely on him being flavour of the month after taking Portsmouth to the Cup Final, but he should be a solid appointment. The job he did at Chelsea is often mocked, which I've never understood. When Mourinho left he had divided the dressing room and Grant pieced it back together and led Chelsea to 2 major finals and almost to the league title. That they won nothing shouldn't overshadow the fact they were heading nowhere when he took over. He has already brought in Piquionne from Lyon and the Mexican forward Pablo Barrera. Piquionne hasn't got a great record for goals during his career, but he did impress at Pompey last year. And Barrera looked good when he played at the World Cup. Keeping Scott Parker will be key as he is the man the team looks to for inspiration and sets a brilliant workrate for the younger lads to learn from. I think a centre back is still needed to do better than lower mid-table this season, but last years relegation worries shouldn't resurface.
Wigan Athletic
A funny team Wigan! Capable of beating Chelsea, but losing by over 7 goals on 2 occasions. Roberto Martinez' management style reminds me of Kevin Keegan a bit. He seems to be good at coaching the teams attack, but the defence is rancid and lacks organisation at times. Having just signed another Scottish starlet in James McArthur it looks like they will agin be simply trying to outscore their opponents. They have also sold a first-choice centre back in Titus Bramble to Sunderland and replaced him with the unproven Antonin Alcaraz who played very little whilst on-loan at the DW Stadium last year. Dave Whelan has traditionally shown patience with his managers, but I think if they start as badly as I think they might then Martinez may be seeking alternative employment. His obvious preference for good football is no excuse for ignoring the fact that a team of their stature should be looking to have a solid backline before anything else. I see a season of struggle, and if few new signings are made then possible relegation. And with their pathetic support and annoying rent-a-quote chairman I for one wont be too sorry!
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Looking back on last season you might think Wolves had had a decent season having not really been in the relegation shake up at the very end. If you take a closer look though you will realise that this was more because of some truly wretched teams around them than through any quality of their own. They are another team that has seemed content to rest on their laurels as far as transfers go, and another I can see this approach costing. Teams like West Ham and Bolton have made good, interesting additions already, Wolves have signed Stephen Hunt! If they just stand still then inevitably teams will move ahead of them. I like Mick McCarthy when I see him, he seems like a nice, salt-of-the-earth Yorkshiremen. His record as a manager though points to him being a good Championship manager who struggles with the move up in level to the Premier League. I would have Wolves down to really struggle this year, mainly down to a lack of goals, and to be involved in a relegation fight that I think they may eventually succomb to.
Tottenham Hotspurs
Now, you might have noticed from previous posts that I am not a huge fan of Harry 'Top, top, sloppy chops' Redknapp or his moron of a son. I'd like to start this off by having a little chuckle that Harry didn't get Joe Cole. Not because I think he'd have been any good, but because Redknapp obviously tought his 'ingenious' transfer methods were going to pay off and they didn't. Maybe he should have put a bit more in the brown paper bag? Having said all this, obviously Tottenham have now got a perfectly good team, as evidenced by their fourth place finish last year. So far though they have not been very active in adding to a squad that looked pretty thin to me last year. And with Man City spending big on good players that should be a worry for Spurs fans. Tottenham's strength is in their core of above average Premier League players in every position, and in Luka Modric I think they have a potentially world class one too. For all Harry's wheeling and dealing though they still don't possess a player that can set the league alight like their competitors do. If they were to get Luis Fabiano that might do it, but I think he'll end up in Italy myself. I can see an early European exit followed by a hangover in the league which lets Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester's City and United get a lead they wont overcome. I think they will return to their, perhaps rightful, position of between 5th and 8th in the league. I think they came good at the right itme last year, but I don't see that being repeated, especially not with Redknapp and his limited tactics.
West Bromwich Albion
The perennial yo-yo team return to the Premier League with the question being, can they stay up this time? Sadly I think the answer is a resounding No! Di Matteo seems a good manager at Championship level, but I think he'll struggle to make the step up with only 3 years management experience under his belt. Looking at the team he has assembled, it look like a Championship team, and there have been no additions to change that view. Graham Dorrans looked like the spark in the team last year, and I would expect him to impress, but other than that they look weak. They shipped goals last year and they will come up against considerably better strikeforces at this level. The release of Robert Koren was a strange decision, he was an experienced international player who looked able to put his foot on the ball and dictate things. Similarly Borja Valero impressed me whilst on loan in Spain last year, letting him go was an error in my opinion. I can foresee a season of struggle and they'll probably only stay off the foot of the table due to Blackpool's hopelessness.
West Ham
Under Gianfranco Zola last year West Ham were desperately poor at times. I went to the Stoke fixture at Upton Park towards the end of the season and was truly shocked by the lack of direction the team had. As nice a man and brilliant a player Zola was, a change needed to be made. I think they picked Avram Gran purely on him being flavour of the month after taking Portsmouth to the Cup Final, but he should be a solid appointment. The job he did at Chelsea is often mocked, which I've never understood. When Mourinho left he had divided the dressing room and Grant pieced it back together and led Chelsea to 2 major finals and almost to the league title. That they won nothing shouldn't overshadow the fact they were heading nowhere when he took over. He has already brought in Piquionne from Lyon and the Mexican forward Pablo Barrera. Piquionne hasn't got a great record for goals during his career, but he did impress at Pompey last year. And Barrera looked good when he played at the World Cup. Keeping Scott Parker will be key as he is the man the team looks to for inspiration and sets a brilliant workrate for the younger lads to learn from. I think a centre back is still needed to do better than lower mid-table this season, but last years relegation worries shouldn't resurface.
Wigan Athletic
A funny team Wigan! Capable of beating Chelsea, but losing by over 7 goals on 2 occasions. Roberto Martinez' management style reminds me of Kevin Keegan a bit. He seems to be good at coaching the teams attack, but the defence is rancid and lacks organisation at times. Having just signed another Scottish starlet in James McArthur it looks like they will agin be simply trying to outscore their opponents. They have also sold a first-choice centre back in Titus Bramble to Sunderland and replaced him with the unproven Antonin Alcaraz who played very little whilst on-loan at the DW Stadium last year. Dave Whelan has traditionally shown patience with his managers, but I think if they start as badly as I think they might then Martinez may be seeking alternative employment. His obvious preference for good football is no excuse for ignoring the fact that a team of their stature should be looking to have a solid backline before anything else. I see a season of struggle, and if few new signings are made then possible relegation. And with their pathetic support and annoying rent-a-quote chairman I for one wont be too sorry!
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Looking back on last season you might think Wolves had had a decent season having not really been in the relegation shake up at the very end. If you take a closer look though you will realise that this was more because of some truly wretched teams around them than through any quality of their own. They are another team that has seemed content to rest on their laurels as far as transfers go, and another I can see this approach costing. Teams like West Ham and Bolton have made good, interesting additions already, Wolves have signed Stephen Hunt! If they just stand still then inevitably teams will move ahead of them. I like Mick McCarthy when I see him, he seems like a nice, salt-of-the-earth Yorkshiremen. His record as a manager though points to him being a good Championship manager who struggles with the move up in level to the Premier League. I would have Wolves down to really struggle this year, mainly down to a lack of goals, and to be involved in a relegation fight that I think they may eventually succomb to.
Friday, 23 July 2010
Premier League Preview Part 3...
Sorry it took a couple of days. I'm sure many of you have been unable to function without knowing my predictions, so I'll get right on with it!
Manchester City
Now I was raised by a City fan so I do have a slight bias towards the Blue half of Manchester. Having said that, I really do see them doing very well this season. They have made, in my opinion, some excellent signings already this season, and are being linked with more good, young, hungry players. I thought they were excellent in spells last season and needed a few more players of better quality to really push on. I think this even more in the absence of any significant signings at Man Utd, Arsenal or Chelsea so far. David Silva is a brilliant player and I think that even though he is small in stature, he isn't afraid of hard work, so has the ingredients to be a success in the Premier League. The left-back Kolarov will be a huge improvement on Bridge from what I've seen. Jerome Boateng looked very good in the World Cup for Germany at centre back, and that should solve one of their weaknesses from last season. If they get either Edin Dzeko or Mario Balotelli too then I think they will have a formidable first XI and good backup too. Perhaps most importantly this all reminds me of Jose Mourinho's signings at Chelsea initially. None of these players have tasted huge success and are still hungry to do so. I think they will make a challenge for the title this year and if they stick with the manager for next season too then I think they have a very bright future ahead of them.
Manchester United
The Red Devils are a strange case at the moment. They should have loads of cash available if the noises coming out of the club from both the Glazers and Alex Ferguson are to be believed. However, the only signings added to what is widely recognised as a fairly weak squad have been Chris Smalling from Fulham and Javier Hernandez from Chivas in Mexico. I'm aware Ferguson has said the market is inflated and that he has faith in his youngsters coming through. The problem is that he inflated the market with last year's Ronaldo transfer and from what I've seen the youngsters are either not good enough or not ready. There is still a good first XI at the club, but the backup is weak and some players are either ageing (Scholes, Giggs, Neville), broken (Hargreaves), or underperforming (Carrick, Berbatov). I'm of the opinion that Ferguson works brilliantly when he has a very good assistant to aid him, and I don't think Mike Phelan is that man. Queiroz was very good with signings and tactics and Phelan doesn't seem good enough. They always challenge so I'd expect Ferguson to have them up there, but I think current prices of around 6/4 are way too short.
Newcastle United
So we move on to the madhouse! Or not so much now that Chris Hughton seems to have restored order to the asylum! The problem with Newcastle, and also perversely their greatest strength is the fans. The support they give is tremendous, but the constant going on about how they are a 'big club' on the back of some moderate success over a decade ago is frankly ridiculous. They are a medium sized club with a good fanbase, no more. And it does seem that a year in The Championsip has given the fans a bit of humility. The team steamrolled all opposition in The Championship, and will be looking to take some of that momentum into this campaign. However, there is a lack of real quality in this team. Steve Harper is a solid goalkeeper and the defence is also decent. In midfield there are a lot of hardworkers like Smith and Barton, but no cutting edge. And up front Andy Carroll looks a promising striker, but I have my doubts as to whether Peter Lovenkrands will be as good as last year once making the step up. I don't think they'll go down, as there are teams far worse and there seems to be a real team spirit there now. But, I thinka few seasons of consolidation are on the cards and the fans should be happy with that. They probably wont be though, so expect Hughton's job to be on the line evry time they lose a couple!
Stoke City
Another team I have a soft spot for. I don't think Tony Pulis is given the credit he deserves for making Stoke seem like part of the Premier League furniture now. When they came up they were meant to be sent from whence they came having had a hiding every week. To their immense credit they set about making themselves very difficult to beat and making the Brittania Stadium a fortress. Having survived with ease that first year Pulis tried to add some flair to a functional side with the likes of Tuncay coming in. Whilst this didn't work out, it shows a flexible approach that many assumed he didn't have. I think if they can add some flair and a regular goalscorer to a team that is very hard to beat they might trouble the top 6 or 7. That signing looks unlikely this summer though so I think another relatively solid mid-table finish beckons. Probably having upset some of the big boys along the way!
Sunderland
I think it would be fair to say that having spent a decent sum of money last summer Steve Bruce's team underachieved a bit. Darren Bent was an inspired signing. Whilst not brilliant at any part of the game he is preficient at most aspects and if the team is set up to provide him with chances he will put a lot of them away. I liked Lorik Cana so it suprised me somewhat to see him leave for Galtasaray. This could be down to the signing of Cristian Riveros of Paraguay though. Another central midfielder, he impressed me at the World Cup with his tackling, but also with his ability to pick a pass. I think he should be a success. John Mensah looked good for Ghana at centre back too, and Bruce is in the process of once agian signing Titus Bramble. The backline seemed to be the problem last year and I don't think Bramble will make an awful lot of difference. He's decent backup if that's what he is being bought as, but if he is going to be first choice then I'd question Bruce's judgement. Cattermole being fit for a whole season should provide extra protection. I think he is the closest thing England have to a disciplined, tough-tackling defensive midfielder so he will be one to watch for me. There are some promising players coming through like Colback and Waghorn, who enjoyed successful loans at Ipswich and Leicester in The Championship last season respectively. They should agin be a team to watch, but will probably end up aorund mid-table I think.
Manchester City
Now I was raised by a City fan so I do have a slight bias towards the Blue half of Manchester. Having said that, I really do see them doing very well this season. They have made, in my opinion, some excellent signings already this season, and are being linked with more good, young, hungry players. I thought they were excellent in spells last season and needed a few more players of better quality to really push on. I think this even more in the absence of any significant signings at Man Utd, Arsenal or Chelsea so far. David Silva is a brilliant player and I think that even though he is small in stature, he isn't afraid of hard work, so has the ingredients to be a success in the Premier League. The left-back Kolarov will be a huge improvement on Bridge from what I've seen. Jerome Boateng looked very good in the World Cup for Germany at centre back, and that should solve one of their weaknesses from last season. If they get either Edin Dzeko or Mario Balotelli too then I think they will have a formidable first XI and good backup too. Perhaps most importantly this all reminds me of Jose Mourinho's signings at Chelsea initially. None of these players have tasted huge success and are still hungry to do so. I think they will make a challenge for the title this year and if they stick with the manager for next season too then I think they have a very bright future ahead of them.
Manchester United
The Red Devils are a strange case at the moment. They should have loads of cash available if the noises coming out of the club from both the Glazers and Alex Ferguson are to be believed. However, the only signings added to what is widely recognised as a fairly weak squad have been Chris Smalling from Fulham and Javier Hernandez from Chivas in Mexico. I'm aware Ferguson has said the market is inflated and that he has faith in his youngsters coming through. The problem is that he inflated the market with last year's Ronaldo transfer and from what I've seen the youngsters are either not good enough or not ready. There is still a good first XI at the club, but the backup is weak and some players are either ageing (Scholes, Giggs, Neville), broken (Hargreaves), or underperforming (Carrick, Berbatov). I'm of the opinion that Ferguson works brilliantly when he has a very good assistant to aid him, and I don't think Mike Phelan is that man. Queiroz was very good with signings and tactics and Phelan doesn't seem good enough. They always challenge so I'd expect Ferguson to have them up there, but I think current prices of around 6/4 are way too short.
Newcastle United
So we move on to the madhouse! Or not so much now that Chris Hughton seems to have restored order to the asylum! The problem with Newcastle, and also perversely their greatest strength is the fans. The support they give is tremendous, but the constant going on about how they are a 'big club' on the back of some moderate success over a decade ago is frankly ridiculous. They are a medium sized club with a good fanbase, no more. And it does seem that a year in The Championsip has given the fans a bit of humility. The team steamrolled all opposition in The Championship, and will be looking to take some of that momentum into this campaign. However, there is a lack of real quality in this team. Steve Harper is a solid goalkeeper and the defence is also decent. In midfield there are a lot of hardworkers like Smith and Barton, but no cutting edge. And up front Andy Carroll looks a promising striker, but I have my doubts as to whether Peter Lovenkrands will be as good as last year once making the step up. I don't think they'll go down, as there are teams far worse and there seems to be a real team spirit there now. But, I thinka few seasons of consolidation are on the cards and the fans should be happy with that. They probably wont be though, so expect Hughton's job to be on the line evry time they lose a couple!
Stoke City
Another team I have a soft spot for. I don't think Tony Pulis is given the credit he deserves for making Stoke seem like part of the Premier League furniture now. When they came up they were meant to be sent from whence they came having had a hiding every week. To their immense credit they set about making themselves very difficult to beat and making the Brittania Stadium a fortress. Having survived with ease that first year Pulis tried to add some flair to a functional side with the likes of Tuncay coming in. Whilst this didn't work out, it shows a flexible approach that many assumed he didn't have. I think if they can add some flair and a regular goalscorer to a team that is very hard to beat they might trouble the top 6 or 7. That signing looks unlikely this summer though so I think another relatively solid mid-table finish beckons. Probably having upset some of the big boys along the way!
Sunderland
I think it would be fair to say that having spent a decent sum of money last summer Steve Bruce's team underachieved a bit. Darren Bent was an inspired signing. Whilst not brilliant at any part of the game he is preficient at most aspects and if the team is set up to provide him with chances he will put a lot of them away. I liked Lorik Cana so it suprised me somewhat to see him leave for Galtasaray. This could be down to the signing of Cristian Riveros of Paraguay though. Another central midfielder, he impressed me at the World Cup with his tackling, but also with his ability to pick a pass. I think he should be a success. John Mensah looked good for Ghana at centre back too, and Bruce is in the process of once agian signing Titus Bramble. The backline seemed to be the problem last year and I don't think Bramble will make an awful lot of difference. He's decent backup if that's what he is being bought as, but if he is going to be first choice then I'd question Bruce's judgement. Cattermole being fit for a whole season should provide extra protection. I think he is the closest thing England have to a disciplined, tough-tackling defensive midfielder so he will be one to watch for me. There are some promising players coming through like Colback and Waghorn, who enjoyed successful loans at Ipswich and Leicester in The Championship last season respectively. They should agin be a team to watch, but will probably end up aorund mid-table I think.
Tuesday, 20 July 2010
Premier League Preview Continued...
Without further ado, here is the next 5 teams up in my look at the forthcoming Premier League Season.
Birmingham
Next up it's last seasons suprise package Birmingham City. A lot of people, me included saw the way that Birmingham struggled to make it out of the Championship, and particularly struggled for goals and foresaw trouble. It is to Alex McLeish's great credit that at no point was relegation really on the cards. This was mostly down to a very hardworking team ethic and a determination not to give anything away easy to the opposition. Personally I would take a look at someone like Roger Johnson as a possible England centre half if a truly hopeless plodder like Matt Upson can seemingly be an automatic pick! He took a group of Championship performers and players like Barry Ferguson who had previously failed in the Premier League and got fantastic performances out of them every week. It looks to me like he has got a perfect blend of youth and experience there and has tried to bring in a bit of flair like Benitez up front to add something different. There is continued pursuit of Ryan Babel at Liverpool I think is interesting. I remember him playing for Ajax and Holland younger age teams and looking a hell of a player. I think if a manager showed some confidence in him he could really blossom. If they were to get hold of Babel or a similar player then it would be a sign of progress. Birmingham will be well clear of trouble, in my opinion, as they have a strong team with decent back up. They could have a good cup run or even push for Europe through the league with a couple of attacking players. They don't have an out-and-out goalscorer, and whilst they seem a rarity these days it would be worth the investment.
Chelsea
Last seasons champions in Carlo Ancelotti's first season, and in some style too! But can he repeat the trick? In Ancelotti Chelsea have a manager who is used to squeezing performances out of players who are getting towards the twilight of their careers. He has brought in the man responsible for the Milanlab that has prolonged so many of AC Milan's players careers in the last decade and will be hoping for similar results at Chelsea. At points in last season Nicolas Anelka and John Terry in particular looked off the pace. All the talk coming out of Chelsea is that this is the year that their youth system will finally start producing first team players. Jeffrey Bruma (centre back), Josh McEachran (attacking midfielder) and Gael Kakuta and Fabio Borini (both forwards) have been seen around the squad and are all expected to play some part this year. I think this shows Chelsea in a very positive light. All the aforementioned players have looked impressive in the cameos they have been given. Add this to the fact the older players should, in the main, be good for another year at least, and I think the title is currently Chelsea's to lose.
Everton
My tip for the Manchester United managers position when it becomes available next! David Moyes has done an astonishing job at Everton in establishing them as a team that no-one would be suprised to see in Europe anymore, or even making a go of Champions League qualification. This has all been done largely without any huge money transfers and without any big names before they joined the club. Players like Tim Cahill and Phil Jagielka have been brought from lower league teams, Mikel Arteta is one of the finest passers in the league and was bought for peanuts from Rangers. Marouane Fellaini is their one big money signing and I think you'd struggle to argue he hasn't justified that price tag. I think with the Aberdeen connection that Ferguson would definitely recommend his protege for the post after he finally retires. Had Everton not have started so poorly, after the Joleon Lescott saga, then they could have got Champions League football. And there have been no such disturbances this summer. The problem lies in Manchester City and Tottenham's greater prestige and spending power. Moyes will be forced to hunt much harder for players if he aims to finish above these 2. I do think they will finish ahead of Liverpool though, and provide city bragging rights for their fans. I'd certainly take them in a match bet with Liverpool if one becomes available at a good price.
Fulham
Another of last seasons over-achievers/suprise packages, depending on your viewpoint. The success they had in reaching the Europa League final and beating the likes of Juventus en route, got Roy Hodgson the coveted Liverpool job. As we speak this currently leaves Fulham without a permanent manager so it is a bit difficult to make predictions. They need to make an appointment soon though, or it will be too late for the manager to get his ideas across and bring in any fresh faces they might want. Martin Jol is the current favourite and I think this would represent a good appointment for Al Fayed. He was harshly treated by Tottenham in his time with them and will have a point to prove. In saying all this I think Hodgson got evrything anyone could get out of this Fulham team last year, and with teams aorund them improving I think they might struggle unless the new manager freshens the squad up a bit. Losing Mark Schwarzer to Arsenal, as looks increasingly likely, would be a blow as he has been a brilliant replacement for Van Der Sar for the last couple of seasons. I can see this season being a real fall from grace and I wouldn't put people off backing them at around 10/1 to go down.
Liverpool
Could this be their year? In a word, no! Personally I don't see even a faint glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel Liverpool have been heading down since the American owners came in. Carragher and Gerrard look over the hill and absolutely shattered respectively. Torres is a fine striker when fit, but he is beginning to look increasingly injury prone, with constant hamstring problems resembling Michael Owen's problems. Mascherano, whilst not my favourite player, has gone AWOL and will not be there next season at a guess. The players being talked about moving are along the lines of Danny Murphy and Paul Scharner, whilst far from poor are not going to propel them to new heights. Joe Cole is an injury riddled shadow of the player that was tipped as the new Gazza, and has played only an average of 17 games a season in his Chelsea career. He looked horrendously off the pace when he featured at the World Cup, and if this is the big signing of the summer then the Europa League is looking like it's now the accepted target. With the money at last years top 5 they need fresh investment to avoid being left behind. Without it they run the risk of falling behind teams like Birmingham and, perhaps most painfully, Everton. I like Uncle Roy, but his appointment reeks of short-termism. They are unlikely to fall far this season, but I don't see progress being made. Anywhere between 6th and 12th depending on player sales and buys for me.
Birmingham
Next up it's last seasons suprise package Birmingham City. A lot of people, me included saw the way that Birmingham struggled to make it out of the Championship, and particularly struggled for goals and foresaw trouble. It is to Alex McLeish's great credit that at no point was relegation really on the cards. This was mostly down to a very hardworking team ethic and a determination not to give anything away easy to the opposition. Personally I would take a look at someone like Roger Johnson as a possible England centre half if a truly hopeless plodder like Matt Upson can seemingly be an automatic pick! He took a group of Championship performers and players like Barry Ferguson who had previously failed in the Premier League and got fantastic performances out of them every week. It looks to me like he has got a perfect blend of youth and experience there and has tried to bring in a bit of flair like Benitez up front to add something different. There is continued pursuit of Ryan Babel at Liverpool I think is interesting. I remember him playing for Ajax and Holland younger age teams and looking a hell of a player. I think if a manager showed some confidence in him he could really blossom. If they were to get hold of Babel or a similar player then it would be a sign of progress. Birmingham will be well clear of trouble, in my opinion, as they have a strong team with decent back up. They could have a good cup run or even push for Europe through the league with a couple of attacking players. They don't have an out-and-out goalscorer, and whilst they seem a rarity these days it would be worth the investment.
Chelsea
Last seasons champions in Carlo Ancelotti's first season, and in some style too! But can he repeat the trick? In Ancelotti Chelsea have a manager who is used to squeezing performances out of players who are getting towards the twilight of their careers. He has brought in the man responsible for the Milanlab that has prolonged so many of AC Milan's players careers in the last decade and will be hoping for similar results at Chelsea. At points in last season Nicolas Anelka and John Terry in particular looked off the pace. All the talk coming out of Chelsea is that this is the year that their youth system will finally start producing first team players. Jeffrey Bruma (centre back), Josh McEachran (attacking midfielder) and Gael Kakuta and Fabio Borini (both forwards) have been seen around the squad and are all expected to play some part this year. I think this shows Chelsea in a very positive light. All the aforementioned players have looked impressive in the cameos they have been given. Add this to the fact the older players should, in the main, be good for another year at least, and I think the title is currently Chelsea's to lose.
Everton
My tip for the Manchester United managers position when it becomes available next! David Moyes has done an astonishing job at Everton in establishing them as a team that no-one would be suprised to see in Europe anymore, or even making a go of Champions League qualification. This has all been done largely without any huge money transfers and without any big names before they joined the club. Players like Tim Cahill and Phil Jagielka have been brought from lower league teams, Mikel Arteta is one of the finest passers in the league and was bought for peanuts from Rangers. Marouane Fellaini is their one big money signing and I think you'd struggle to argue he hasn't justified that price tag. I think with the Aberdeen connection that Ferguson would definitely recommend his protege for the post after he finally retires. Had Everton not have started so poorly, after the Joleon Lescott saga, then they could have got Champions League football. And there have been no such disturbances this summer. The problem lies in Manchester City and Tottenham's greater prestige and spending power. Moyes will be forced to hunt much harder for players if he aims to finish above these 2. I do think they will finish ahead of Liverpool though, and provide city bragging rights for their fans. I'd certainly take them in a match bet with Liverpool if one becomes available at a good price.
Fulham
Another of last seasons over-achievers/suprise packages, depending on your viewpoint. The success they had in reaching the Europa League final and beating the likes of Juventus en route, got Roy Hodgson the coveted Liverpool job. As we speak this currently leaves Fulham without a permanent manager so it is a bit difficult to make predictions. They need to make an appointment soon though, or it will be too late for the manager to get his ideas across and bring in any fresh faces they might want. Martin Jol is the current favourite and I think this would represent a good appointment for Al Fayed. He was harshly treated by Tottenham in his time with them and will have a point to prove. In saying all this I think Hodgson got evrything anyone could get out of this Fulham team last year, and with teams aorund them improving I think they might struggle unless the new manager freshens the squad up a bit. Losing Mark Schwarzer to Arsenal, as looks increasingly likely, would be a blow as he has been a brilliant replacement for Van Der Sar for the last couple of seasons. I can see this season being a real fall from grace and I wouldn't put people off backing them at around 10/1 to go down.
Liverpool
Could this be their year? In a word, no! Personally I don't see even a faint glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel Liverpool have been heading down since the American owners came in. Carragher and Gerrard look over the hill and absolutely shattered respectively. Torres is a fine striker when fit, but he is beginning to look increasingly injury prone, with constant hamstring problems resembling Michael Owen's problems. Mascherano, whilst not my favourite player, has gone AWOL and will not be there next season at a guess. The players being talked about moving are along the lines of Danny Murphy and Paul Scharner, whilst far from poor are not going to propel them to new heights. Joe Cole is an injury riddled shadow of the player that was tipped as the new Gazza, and has played only an average of 17 games a season in his Chelsea career. He looked horrendously off the pace when he featured at the World Cup, and if this is the big signing of the summer then the Europa League is looking like it's now the accepted target. With the money at last years top 5 they need fresh investment to avoid being left behind. Without it they run the risk of falling behind teams like Birmingham and, perhaps most painfully, Everton. I like Uncle Roy, but his appointment reeks of short-termism. They are unlikely to fall far this season, but I don't see progress being made. Anywhere between 6th and 12th depending on player sales and buys for me.
Monday, 19 July 2010
Some League Previews I Think...
As promised in my last post I will be doing a series of previews of UK and European Leagues over the next week or so. I'm sure you've all been waited with baited breath since the prospect was mentioned so luckily for you the wait is now over! I will take a look at the English Premier League, or 'EPL' if you're a foreign reader, and I'll take a look at every team. I wont do this for all leagues I wouldn't think as that would require an ungodly amount of research, but I might do it as I do love the tedium of researching football! I will do 5 teams at a time as I have a job and this is all quite time-consuming!
English Premier League 2010/11
Aston Villa
Villa are probably going to be similar to the last few years with Martin O'Neill in charge. They'll look very good at points, dreadful at others. The dreadful times will probably coincide with a Carew injury and having to pick Heskey. As of yet Villa haven't really made any signings and aren't really being linked with anyone except Robbie Keane. I've not really seen the reason behind the high regard most people in the UK have for O'Neill. I think he was very good at smaller clubs with limited ambitions (Wycombe, Norwich, Leicester), and was also very good where 4-4-2 was the predominant tactical outlook (1990's England and with Celtic). Since he has been at Villa though I think his tactical limitations and lack of scouting outside of the UK in the main have stalled Villa's progress. There have been some successes and Villa have improved undoubtebly, but I think they have come as far as they can with him at the helm. Carew was a success, but the other strikers he has purchased have been enything but. Milner was a success, but then there was Nigel Reo-Coker and Stewart Downing, who look like expensive flops to me. None of his teams have ever been particularly creative either and this also limits them in my opinion. If the Plan A isn't working there is no Plan B or a player to change a game with a piece of skill. When Randy Lerner came in shortly after O'Neill that was the time for Villa to push on. Now, with Man City's riches and Tottenham's resurgence I think Villa could be poised for a fall unless O'Neill makes some good acquisitions. If Milner is sold for around £25-£30m then this would represent great business and could give them some financial muscle to make signings. If O'Neill fails to use this money wisely then I foresee a parting of ways. I think Villa will finish around 8th this year, possibly lower depending on signings.
Arsenal
There are, as always, a few if's and but's when it comes to Arsenal. I must admit I have a soft spot for them as I think Wenger is the most influential manager of the last 20 years and would love for his principles to show reward at some point. Having said all that, I'm not blind to their weaknesses. The goalkeeper has been a problem ever since Lehmann left and needs solving. The fact Wenger has already been active in pursuing Mark Schwarzer shows he has recognised the problem and is looking to solve it. Whilst Arsenal seem reluctant to pay Fulham's asking price of £4m for a 38 year old I still think he'd be worth it even if you only got 2 seasons out of him. Wenger also released 3 centre backs and has so far only brought in 1 in Laurent Kocielsny. I did a little review of him in my last blog for those that are interested and I think he look good, if a bit raw and inexperienced. I think Arsenal need to bring in a more experienced centre back too, but in usual Wenger fashion it probably wont be someone that anyone has thought/heard of! Midfield is probably Arsenal's strongest area, and it looks increasingly likely Fabregas will be staying. This a huge boost as last season Cesc was in brilliant form and is the player that Arsenal turn to for guidance and inspiration. Some defensive midfield cover for Alex Song would be a good idea, it will probably come in the shape of a young player being promoted or a young player being signed cheaply though. The signing of Marouane Chamakh looks good to me, I think this will herald Arsenal going full-time with the 4-2-3-1 formation that all top teams now seem to use. Chamakh is a strong player who can hold the ball up whilst Fabregas, Arshavin and Van Persie buzz round him. If all of these 3 stay fit then Arsenal should put in a strong challenge for the title. However, this has long been the achilles heel of Arsenal, their inability to keep anyone fit or to bring them back properly from injuries. If this problem can finally be fixed then I would be very tempted to back Arsenal for the League at the prices available.
Blackpool
Ian Holloway and his 'Ollyism's' will grace the Premier League next season! Sadly that might be the only reason to smile at Bloomfield Road. Whilst they did brilliantly to get promoted last year they probably weren't the best team in the play-offs and like Derby before them, it has probably all come too soon. Charlie Adam is their gem and I think he will impress enough to get a move when they are probably relegated, but I don't see anyone else with the class to cut it at the top level. The signings being talked about are not going to help much either. Getting DJ Campbell on-loan again is not going to secure your Premier League status and this seems to be the level of player they are aiming at. It all reminds me very much of West Brom's usual transfer plans of steadily building with a view to not stacking up debt and having a shot at promotion again if they went down. This is a sensible view to take I think, although it will probably leave the fans a bit disappointed. I can see them battling out some good results at home against other strugglers, but I don't see them staying up. I think they will finish bottom of the league.
Blackburn
Under the man known to many as 'Fat' Sam Blackburn are steadily morphing into his Bolton team of the early noughties. This is a double edged sword that the fans still seem unsure of. With Bolton Allardyce achieved impossible league finishes on a small budget, but did so playing some of the worst football the league has seen. This has led to calls for his head at both clubs regardless of the improvement in league position. Blackburn's form at Eewood Park has made it something of a fortress and they will probably beat everyone equal or worse than themselves at home and will probably cause some shocks against the big boys too. The club are being linked with 1 or 2 flair players, and they will probably provide the skills that Djorkaeff and Okocha did for Allardyce at Blackburn whilst the rest of the team concentrate on fouling and bullying the opposition. I'm really not a fan of Allardyce, or the style his teams play in. He's got a ridiculously good view of his abilities that just doesn't tie in with his achievements and he is Fergusons chief brown noser, and the in their faces football is terrible to watch. I can't deny it's effectiveness though and for this reason they could make a push for upper mid table and possible Europa League qualification.
Bolton
I think Bolton are going to be a bit of a suprise package this year. Owen Coyle is trying to get them playing good football and has made some good signings already. Getting Martin Petrov from Man City is a brilliant move I think. He could be the man that sets things moving that the Reebok Stadium hasn't had since Jay-Jay Okocha. As ever they will probably utilise Kevin Davies strength up front so they will need the midfield to be creative to help him out. Petrov and Wilshere (if the anticipated loan is done with Arsenal) will provide flair and thrust. They are still solid at the back with the ever impressive Jaaskelainen in goal and the emerging talent of Phil Jones at centre back. Fabrice Muamba provides protection and work-rate in midfield and the signing of Graham Alexander adds experience to a fairly youthful team. I think a cup run might be on, as we have seen Coyle is not afraid to use a full-strength team in the cups with Burnley. If it all fits together then I can see a push for European football too. Although I think a few teams might push on a bit this year and provide an interesting 4 or 5 way battle. I hink they will finish somewhere between 12th and 7th, depending on a cup run getting in their way.
English Premier League 2010/11
Aston Villa
Villa are probably going to be similar to the last few years with Martin O'Neill in charge. They'll look very good at points, dreadful at others. The dreadful times will probably coincide with a Carew injury and having to pick Heskey. As of yet Villa haven't really made any signings and aren't really being linked with anyone except Robbie Keane. I've not really seen the reason behind the high regard most people in the UK have for O'Neill. I think he was very good at smaller clubs with limited ambitions (Wycombe, Norwich, Leicester), and was also very good where 4-4-2 was the predominant tactical outlook (1990's England and with Celtic). Since he has been at Villa though I think his tactical limitations and lack of scouting outside of the UK in the main have stalled Villa's progress. There have been some successes and Villa have improved undoubtebly, but I think they have come as far as they can with him at the helm. Carew was a success, but the other strikers he has purchased have been enything but. Milner was a success, but then there was Nigel Reo-Coker and Stewart Downing, who look like expensive flops to me. None of his teams have ever been particularly creative either and this also limits them in my opinion. If the Plan A isn't working there is no Plan B or a player to change a game with a piece of skill. When Randy Lerner came in shortly after O'Neill that was the time for Villa to push on. Now, with Man City's riches and Tottenham's resurgence I think Villa could be poised for a fall unless O'Neill makes some good acquisitions. If Milner is sold for around £25-£30m then this would represent great business and could give them some financial muscle to make signings. If O'Neill fails to use this money wisely then I foresee a parting of ways. I think Villa will finish around 8th this year, possibly lower depending on signings.
Arsenal
There are, as always, a few if's and but's when it comes to Arsenal. I must admit I have a soft spot for them as I think Wenger is the most influential manager of the last 20 years and would love for his principles to show reward at some point. Having said all that, I'm not blind to their weaknesses. The goalkeeper has been a problem ever since Lehmann left and needs solving. The fact Wenger has already been active in pursuing Mark Schwarzer shows he has recognised the problem and is looking to solve it. Whilst Arsenal seem reluctant to pay Fulham's asking price of £4m for a 38 year old I still think he'd be worth it even if you only got 2 seasons out of him. Wenger also released 3 centre backs and has so far only brought in 1 in Laurent Kocielsny. I did a little review of him in my last blog for those that are interested and I think he look good, if a bit raw and inexperienced. I think Arsenal need to bring in a more experienced centre back too, but in usual Wenger fashion it probably wont be someone that anyone has thought/heard of! Midfield is probably Arsenal's strongest area, and it looks increasingly likely Fabregas will be staying. This a huge boost as last season Cesc was in brilliant form and is the player that Arsenal turn to for guidance and inspiration. Some defensive midfield cover for Alex Song would be a good idea, it will probably come in the shape of a young player being promoted or a young player being signed cheaply though. The signing of Marouane Chamakh looks good to me, I think this will herald Arsenal going full-time with the 4-2-3-1 formation that all top teams now seem to use. Chamakh is a strong player who can hold the ball up whilst Fabregas, Arshavin and Van Persie buzz round him. If all of these 3 stay fit then Arsenal should put in a strong challenge for the title. However, this has long been the achilles heel of Arsenal, their inability to keep anyone fit or to bring them back properly from injuries. If this problem can finally be fixed then I would be very tempted to back Arsenal for the League at the prices available.
Blackpool
Ian Holloway and his 'Ollyism's' will grace the Premier League next season! Sadly that might be the only reason to smile at Bloomfield Road. Whilst they did brilliantly to get promoted last year they probably weren't the best team in the play-offs and like Derby before them, it has probably all come too soon. Charlie Adam is their gem and I think he will impress enough to get a move when they are probably relegated, but I don't see anyone else with the class to cut it at the top level. The signings being talked about are not going to help much either. Getting DJ Campbell on-loan again is not going to secure your Premier League status and this seems to be the level of player they are aiming at. It all reminds me very much of West Brom's usual transfer plans of steadily building with a view to not stacking up debt and having a shot at promotion again if they went down. This is a sensible view to take I think, although it will probably leave the fans a bit disappointed. I can see them battling out some good results at home against other strugglers, but I don't see them staying up. I think they will finish bottom of the league.
Blackburn
Under the man known to many as 'Fat' Sam Blackburn are steadily morphing into his Bolton team of the early noughties. This is a double edged sword that the fans still seem unsure of. With Bolton Allardyce achieved impossible league finishes on a small budget, but did so playing some of the worst football the league has seen. This has led to calls for his head at both clubs regardless of the improvement in league position. Blackburn's form at Eewood Park has made it something of a fortress and they will probably beat everyone equal or worse than themselves at home and will probably cause some shocks against the big boys too. The club are being linked with 1 or 2 flair players, and they will probably provide the skills that Djorkaeff and Okocha did for Allardyce at Blackburn whilst the rest of the team concentrate on fouling and bullying the opposition. I'm really not a fan of Allardyce, or the style his teams play in. He's got a ridiculously good view of his abilities that just doesn't tie in with his achievements and he is Fergusons chief brown noser, and the in their faces football is terrible to watch. I can't deny it's effectiveness though and for this reason they could make a push for upper mid table and possible Europa League qualification.
Bolton
I think Bolton are going to be a bit of a suprise package this year. Owen Coyle is trying to get them playing good football and has made some good signings already. Getting Martin Petrov from Man City is a brilliant move I think. He could be the man that sets things moving that the Reebok Stadium hasn't had since Jay-Jay Okocha. As ever they will probably utilise Kevin Davies strength up front so they will need the midfield to be creative to help him out. Petrov and Wilshere (if the anticipated loan is done with Arsenal) will provide flair and thrust. They are still solid at the back with the ever impressive Jaaskelainen in goal and the emerging talent of Phil Jones at centre back. Fabrice Muamba provides protection and work-rate in midfield and the signing of Graham Alexander adds experience to a fairly youthful team. I think a cup run might be on, as we have seen Coyle is not afraid to use a full-strength team in the cups with Burnley. If it all fits together then I can see a push for European football too. Although I think a few teams might push on a bit this year and provide an interesting 4 or 5 way battle. I hink they will finish somewhere between 12th and 7th, depending on a cup run getting in their way.
Thursday, 15 July 2010
Transfer Gossip...
This blog is something of a special request! A friend of mine asked me to include my thoughts on the subject, probably remembering the many times I have ranted that the people who get paid to make up this stuff should all be ashamed. After this I am planning to do an assessment of at least 5 Leagues from both the UK and Europe with some tips for next year included too. But, right now I'm going to assess this summers most likely stories and give my thoughts on some transfers I can see happening too, as well as likely successes of some that have already taken place.
The Big Ones that have already happened
David Silva to Manchester City
I really like this transfer. I think he is as big a name as City are likely to attract without the promise of Champions League football and is a signing more for footballing ability than marketing potential I think. Silva might have been overshadowed by the more famous David at Valencia (Villa!) for the past few seasons, but he was also hugely important to Valencia and was a regular for Spain before the World Cup. He is another of the little men that Spain are now famous for, but this one is a tougher customer than usual! He spent a season or 2 on loan at smaller clubs early in his career getting toughened up, in particular at Albacete. I think these experiences will bear him in good stead and if City can find a central striker who cares more than Adebayor then with Silva and Tevez behind I'm sure they can mount a challenge this year. Don't expect goals though, he's more of a provider than a scorer!
Lorient Kocielesny to Arsenal
This transfer seemed to go on for ages and showed Arsene Wenger's determination to get his man. I don't watch an awful lot of French Ligue 1, mostly due to it being utter toilet, but he has made a swift rise and looked very good from what I've seen and read. He was playing in Ligue 2 the season before last, then came up to Ligue 1 and again looked a very capable centre half. He bears similarities to last seasons success Thomas Vermaelen as he is also capable of playing football and putting in crunching challenges. This is an interesting one I think. Having one ball playing centre back is good, but 2 could become a liability. He is also only 24 and has 1 season of top flight European football behind him. Part of Vermaelen's settling in was probably due to having the experience of Billy Gallas next to him. Without any current experience in defence at Arsenal it could all go horribly wrong.
Javier Hernandez and Chris Smalling to Manchester United
I have grouped these 2 together as they are both young players who no-one has seen a great deal of before. I also think that unless Ferguson can persuade someone to give him big money for Dimitar Berbatov then this will be the extent of their summer spending. I wouldn't give the red-nosed whiner 50p for him personally, he doesn't fit in at Man Utd at all and I'd use that to bargain a cut price deal. Saying that, Steve Bruce will no doubt steam in with a £40m offer if Ferguson asks him! Anyway, back to Smalling and Hernandez. I have very differing views on these 2. I think Hernandez looks a real prospect, he shone for Mexico in the World Cup and reminded me of Carlos Vela 2 years ago when everyone thought he was ready to make a breakthrough at Arsenal. He's small, quick and knows where the goal is. My worry would be that a player like that needs to play his way in and at a club the size of United he might not get that time. Smalling is not good enough in my opinion. I think Ferguson paid all that money (£10m!) on the back of 3 good games and he got torn apart by anyone with pace or tricks later in the campaign. He is only young, but he was playing non-league football 2 years ago and I think the learning curve will be far too steep for him to make it.
The Potential Moves
Fernando Torres to Manchester City/Chelsea
This one is looking increasingly likely as I write this, with various reports stating talks are now happening with regards to a move to Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea. With Torres making Darren Anderton look like a picture of health at the moment I think the jury is out on this move. I think it will happen due to Liverpool's finances and Abramovich's professed desire for a big name signing. If they can get him fit then Torres is one of the world's best, but he's no use to anyone if he's on the treatment table.
Mark Schwarzer to Arsenal
This is an interesting one as it looks likely to happen and goes against Arsene Wenger's usual policy. Signing a 38 year old looks dodgy in writing, but as a short term fix, Schwarzer fits the bill. With Scielzeny getting rave reviews at Brentford last year on loan, it looks like he'll be the latest young goalkeeper that Arsene will put his hopes on. At £4m Shwarzer might be expensive, but unless Wenger can attract someone like Joe Hart or Seb Frey then I think this would be a good purchase.
Joe Cole to Tottenham/Arsenal/Liverpool
This is only going one way! All roads lead to White Hart Lane for Mr Cole as none of the others seem at all serious about picking him up, even on a free. Harry 'Sloppy Chops' Redknapp twitched something about signing him onths ago and has gone about the transfer in his usual way. He says he likes the player, then states he is at another club so it would be rude to speculate (having already done so), states that he might have wages that are too high (but thats the chairmans decision), then says he will speak to him about how he always liked him. Then he will sign on huge wages, that aren't Harry's fault obviously (thats the chairmans decision) and when he flops it will be the chairmans fault, Harry never wanted him. I hate Redknapp and the ridiculous pandering to him in this nations media is appalling. Someone should really call him up on the bungs, the dodgy agents fees, the fact the media have never questioned the trail of bankruptcy he has left behind him at every club he's been at is shocking. Get me on TV, I'll do it!
The ones that will go on all summer...
Mario Balotelli to Arsenal/Man Utd/Man City/West Ham etc
I will categorically state now that this will not happen. It wont stop the papers repeating it all summer, but it isn't happening. Inter Milan have said he isn't going, he has said he's happy and they have a new manager who hasn't had time to fall out with the stroppy boy wonder yet! He is clearly a hell of a player when in the mood, sadly his frequent personality clashes with teammates, opposing players and managers mean he is yet to fulfil that potential. This is lazy journalism at its best, anyone taking this story to their editor should be handed their P45 and told never to darken that door again!
Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole, Steven Gerrard to Real Madrid
Another one that should be immediately thrown in the bin, but sadly wont. Jose Mourinho is now manager of Real Madrid so the English media will once again link our 'world class' players with him. This is either due to sheer stupidity on the level of these players or the media's borderline homosexual obsession with Jose. Ashley Cole might happen so I'll leave that aside, he is the best left-back in the world and is not well liked in England, Jose signed him before, it all adds up. The other 2 don't. Whilst Madrid's transfer policy is somewhat mental this would really tae it up a notch if they signed either 'Lamps' of 'Stevie Me'. Both of them are over 30, both of them are vastly over-rated, as seen by the fact that even though they're apparently 'world class' there has never been a hint of a foreign club seriously considering buying them, and both of their clubs value them at stupidly high values. Neither of them have the technique to fit in in Spain and Madrid are already well staffed in central midfield. There's as much chance of this happening as there is of Cristiano Ronaldo not being a preening pr*ck.
A big name striker/midfielder coming to Manchester United
Another lazy one that comes up all the time. Just to make something clear straight away, Man Utd are broke. Skint. Up financial sh*t creek minus 1x paddle. So they will not be spending a shedload of money on one of the world's best players. Wesley Sneijder is the current flavour of the month. He would be valued at around £30m on the back of an amazing season and after spending that on Berbatov I would be extremely suprised if the Glazer's ever gave Ferguson that sort of money again. A waste of paper if ever there was one.
Some tips...
A few bookmakers will offer transfer betting in their football specials markets. You can get 17/20 on Betfair currently for James Milner to stay at Aston Villa, I'd take that. To value him at £30m is ridiculous when he's nothing more than a decent hard-working player and I can't see City paying it, and no-one else is interested. Skybet go around 10/11 that David Silva gets under 5.5 goals, and I like that too. Skybet also go 6/4 that Joe Cole goes to Tottenham, this is a bank job I think, it's basically a done deal!
The Big Ones that have already happened
David Silva to Manchester City
I really like this transfer. I think he is as big a name as City are likely to attract without the promise of Champions League football and is a signing more for footballing ability than marketing potential I think. Silva might have been overshadowed by the more famous David at Valencia (Villa!) for the past few seasons, but he was also hugely important to Valencia and was a regular for Spain before the World Cup. He is another of the little men that Spain are now famous for, but this one is a tougher customer than usual! He spent a season or 2 on loan at smaller clubs early in his career getting toughened up, in particular at Albacete. I think these experiences will bear him in good stead and if City can find a central striker who cares more than Adebayor then with Silva and Tevez behind I'm sure they can mount a challenge this year. Don't expect goals though, he's more of a provider than a scorer!
Lorient Kocielesny to Arsenal
This transfer seemed to go on for ages and showed Arsene Wenger's determination to get his man. I don't watch an awful lot of French Ligue 1, mostly due to it being utter toilet, but he has made a swift rise and looked very good from what I've seen and read. He was playing in Ligue 2 the season before last, then came up to Ligue 1 and again looked a very capable centre half. He bears similarities to last seasons success Thomas Vermaelen as he is also capable of playing football and putting in crunching challenges. This is an interesting one I think. Having one ball playing centre back is good, but 2 could become a liability. He is also only 24 and has 1 season of top flight European football behind him. Part of Vermaelen's settling in was probably due to having the experience of Billy Gallas next to him. Without any current experience in defence at Arsenal it could all go horribly wrong.
Javier Hernandez and Chris Smalling to Manchester United
I have grouped these 2 together as they are both young players who no-one has seen a great deal of before. I also think that unless Ferguson can persuade someone to give him big money for Dimitar Berbatov then this will be the extent of their summer spending. I wouldn't give the red-nosed whiner 50p for him personally, he doesn't fit in at Man Utd at all and I'd use that to bargain a cut price deal. Saying that, Steve Bruce will no doubt steam in with a £40m offer if Ferguson asks him! Anyway, back to Smalling and Hernandez. I have very differing views on these 2. I think Hernandez looks a real prospect, he shone for Mexico in the World Cup and reminded me of Carlos Vela 2 years ago when everyone thought he was ready to make a breakthrough at Arsenal. He's small, quick and knows where the goal is. My worry would be that a player like that needs to play his way in and at a club the size of United he might not get that time. Smalling is not good enough in my opinion. I think Ferguson paid all that money (£10m!) on the back of 3 good games and he got torn apart by anyone with pace or tricks later in the campaign. He is only young, but he was playing non-league football 2 years ago and I think the learning curve will be far too steep for him to make it.
The Potential Moves
Fernando Torres to Manchester City/Chelsea
This one is looking increasingly likely as I write this, with various reports stating talks are now happening with regards to a move to Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea. With Torres making Darren Anderton look like a picture of health at the moment I think the jury is out on this move. I think it will happen due to Liverpool's finances and Abramovich's professed desire for a big name signing. If they can get him fit then Torres is one of the world's best, but he's no use to anyone if he's on the treatment table.
Mark Schwarzer to Arsenal
This is an interesting one as it looks likely to happen and goes against Arsene Wenger's usual policy. Signing a 38 year old looks dodgy in writing, but as a short term fix, Schwarzer fits the bill. With Scielzeny getting rave reviews at Brentford last year on loan, it looks like he'll be the latest young goalkeeper that Arsene will put his hopes on. At £4m Shwarzer might be expensive, but unless Wenger can attract someone like Joe Hart or Seb Frey then I think this would be a good purchase.
Joe Cole to Tottenham/Arsenal/Liverpool
This is only going one way! All roads lead to White Hart Lane for Mr Cole as none of the others seem at all serious about picking him up, even on a free. Harry 'Sloppy Chops' Redknapp twitched something about signing him onths ago and has gone about the transfer in his usual way. He says he likes the player, then states he is at another club so it would be rude to speculate (having already done so), states that he might have wages that are too high (but thats the chairmans decision), then says he will speak to him about how he always liked him. Then he will sign on huge wages, that aren't Harry's fault obviously (thats the chairmans decision) and when he flops it will be the chairmans fault, Harry never wanted him. I hate Redknapp and the ridiculous pandering to him in this nations media is appalling. Someone should really call him up on the bungs, the dodgy agents fees, the fact the media have never questioned the trail of bankruptcy he has left behind him at every club he's been at is shocking. Get me on TV, I'll do it!
The ones that will go on all summer...
Mario Balotelli to Arsenal/Man Utd/Man City/West Ham etc
I will categorically state now that this will not happen. It wont stop the papers repeating it all summer, but it isn't happening. Inter Milan have said he isn't going, he has said he's happy and they have a new manager who hasn't had time to fall out with the stroppy boy wonder yet! He is clearly a hell of a player when in the mood, sadly his frequent personality clashes with teammates, opposing players and managers mean he is yet to fulfil that potential. This is lazy journalism at its best, anyone taking this story to their editor should be handed their P45 and told never to darken that door again!
Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole, Steven Gerrard to Real Madrid
Another one that should be immediately thrown in the bin, but sadly wont. Jose Mourinho is now manager of Real Madrid so the English media will once again link our 'world class' players with him. This is either due to sheer stupidity on the level of these players or the media's borderline homosexual obsession with Jose. Ashley Cole might happen so I'll leave that aside, he is the best left-back in the world and is not well liked in England, Jose signed him before, it all adds up. The other 2 don't. Whilst Madrid's transfer policy is somewhat mental this would really tae it up a notch if they signed either 'Lamps' of 'Stevie Me'. Both of them are over 30, both of them are vastly over-rated, as seen by the fact that even though they're apparently 'world class' there has never been a hint of a foreign club seriously considering buying them, and both of their clubs value them at stupidly high values. Neither of them have the technique to fit in in Spain and Madrid are already well staffed in central midfield. There's as much chance of this happening as there is of Cristiano Ronaldo not being a preening pr*ck.
A big name striker/midfielder coming to Manchester United
Another lazy one that comes up all the time. Just to make something clear straight away, Man Utd are broke. Skint. Up financial sh*t creek minus 1x paddle. So they will not be spending a shedload of money on one of the world's best players. Wesley Sneijder is the current flavour of the month. He would be valued at around £30m on the back of an amazing season and after spending that on Berbatov I would be extremely suprised if the Glazer's ever gave Ferguson that sort of money again. A waste of paper if ever there was one.
Some tips...
A few bookmakers will offer transfer betting in their football specials markets. You can get 17/20 on Betfair currently for James Milner to stay at Aston Villa, I'd take that. To value him at £30m is ridiculous when he's nothing more than a decent hard-working player and I can't see City paying it, and no-one else is interested. Skybet go around 10/11 that David Silva gets under 5.5 goals, and I like that too. Skybet also go 6/4 that Joe Cole goes to Tottenham, this is a bank job I think, it's basically a done deal!
Monday, 12 July 2010
Looking back on the World Cup...
I will probably do another blog on this subject, but here are some of my immediate thoughts. I shall break them into Good and Bad sections, and I think Bad may be the more heavily populated!
The Good
Diego Forlan
Being chosen as Player of the World Cup might well be the first time in history FIFA have got something anywhere approaching correct in recent years. And for this they should be congratulated. Forlan has been making Ferguson's decision to cast him aside look very silly in Spain ever since he went there. However, due to the incredibly insular attitude this nations media have he has rarely been given the credit he deserves. He has been Pichichi (Top Scorer) in Spain 2 of the last 3 years, and doesn't play for Real Madrid or Barcelona. He has been the key man in getting Uruguay to the Semi-Finals playing in more of a playmaker role for his country. This hasn't stopped him banging in 5 goals and tying for 2nd spot in the Golden Boot though. A fantastic player, and this award will hopefully see him stop being referred to as 'ex-Man Utd flop' Diego Forlan!
Sergio Ramos
I think this man has been superb in this tournament. He wont get that much credit because he's 'just' a right-back, but he has been immense. Whilst Spain won the tournament I think outside of David Villa and perhaps Iker Casillas you would struggle to say anyone stood out. For me Ramos did just that with his non-stop energy on the right hand side. He could often be seen making a tackle in his own half, then giving the ball to Xavi, before popping up at the other end to make a run into the box before passing or crossing to the forwards. One of Roy Hodgson's first tasks at Liverpool should be to show Glen Johnson that this is how to be an attacking full-back whilst still actually defending!
Cracking Goals
Before the match last night on BBC they showed a run down of the best goals, and there have been some belters! Once the players got the hang of the ball they were letting fly from everywhere. Van Bronckhorst's howlitzer for Holland against Uruguay was a fine example of this. It was like an exocet missile heading for the top corner! Maicon's beauty against North Korea from almost the byline was another beauty. The fact that some pundits were questioning whether he meant it should see them being ushered out of the door for showing such poor knowledge in my opinion. He has form for it, having done it for Inter on more than one occasion in the last couple of seasons.
Germany
One team that did try to attack was the Germans. Scoring 4 goals three times was a breath of fresh air in this often boring tournament and they should be commended for trying to beat the opposition rather than just trying not to lose. Whilst they are a counter-attacking team, they were relentless once they got their noses in front. As Australia, England and Argentina will testify. The decision to have Bastia Schweinsteiger as a defensive midfielder was key in this. Whilst most teams had 1, or even 2, destroyers Germany had an ex-winger who was comfortable joining in in attack. With Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira also impressive alongside him they weren't going to sit back or kick people as most other teams seemed content too. Themselves and Argentina were probably the 2 most attractive sides in the tournament and did their best to make it exciting.
The Bad
Cheating
The amount of cheating that now goes on has reached ridiculous levels and is beginning to actually turn me off some games. Even the final was tainted for me by the fact that Iniesta had been throwing himself about, waving imaginary cards around, getting Heitinga sent off and just generally being a horrible, pasty little man! This World Cup has showed that something needs to be done to stop all of this before people start watching a mor emanly sport like say synchronised swimming!? This is a huge bugbear of mine anyway and this tournament has just fuelled my rage. Grown men throwing themselves at the floor then rolling round clutching body parts because someone has breathed on them is not what football is about. I'm not sure what the answer is, but I have seen some interesting ideas floated. I would definitely introduce a straight yellow card for anyone that waves an imaginary one trying to get a fellow player booked. I would look at retrospective punishments for diving, although I do relaise this may mean the end of Arjen Robben's career. I realise this would be harder to implement as there needs to be a line drawn as to how much you can realistically review, but players need to know that they will be punished. If you roll round the floor like someone has just broken your leg then you should have to receive a minimum of 5 minutes with a physio checking you haven't. Whilst some of these are obviously in jest, the sentiment is not.
The Makelele Role
This is another of my pet hates and seems to be very en vogue at the moment. Under Jose Mourinho Makelele was hyped up beyond belief for what I see as little more than being a nuisance and passing the ball under 5 yards. This has led to most managers now thinking that what their team needs is a player in this role. You only have to look at Michael Essien or Bastian Schweinsteiger to see that a defensive midfielder can offer so much more. This World Cup has seen truly dreadful players like Busquets, Mascherano, Van Bommel all basically fouling people to break up play, but doing it where they are unlikely to be booked. Germany did well on the back of Shweinsteiger being able to start attacks from that position and this should be the future blueprint. I'm all for players being disciplined, but this is a step too far. When you are asking a player to stop the opposition playing by any means necessary and actively discouraging any actual football being played then something has gone awry in my opinion.
England
Dreadful. Horrendous. Embarrassing. These words go some way to describe the 'performances' put in by the national team. The only positive thing that should come out of this is a realsiation of where England actually rank in the grand scheme of things. To have qualified 2nd from the weakest group in the World Cup is bad enough, to then be made to wear a dress and cry by Germany is just dreadful. Whilst England definitely didn't perform at their very best, it should also now be realised that barring Ashley Cole none of these players are truly world class. My definition of this is 'would they get in a squad of 23 if picking a world team?'. I can only see Cashley in that squad. No before people start banging on about Rooney, most would pick 5 or 6 attackers in that squad. I would take Villa, Drogba, Messi, Ronaldo and Iniesta before Rooney without thinking. This leaves him battling with players like Forlan, Ozil and Tevez for the final spot. For all the hype surrounding Rooney I don' think he's any better than someone like Tevez. In fact I'd have them as very similar. They are both nowhere near as technically able as players like Messi and Ronaldo, but will put the effort in to compensate for this. See the amount of passes that bounce off Rooney's shins for further evidence. I'm not saying he's poor, far from it, just that to Lord him as an equal of Messi is nothing short of a lie.
Englands TV Pundits
Of all the things that were bad at this World Cup I would say that by some distance the worst was listening to these people's 'expert' views and analysis. The only man who talked any sense or gave any insight was Clarence Seedorf and you could often see his mirth at being surrounded by such buffoons. ITV were undoubtebly the worst, as usual. Edgar Davids was the Winston Bogarde of their outfit, content to just sit there and pick up his wages. Andy Townsend is surely clinging t his job by the fingernails. He offers nothing more than platitudes about how 'the boy done good' and his ignorance of foreign players is surely a sackable offence. If your job is to give analysis of teams at the World Cup how can you do no research and then laugh at their funny names!? I'd expect to be sacked if I was that bad at my job. Hansen looks like he gave up caring long ago, which is a shame because he can be good. Lineker's autcue jokes aren't even so bad they're funny, they're just crap. And Shearer. Jesus wept. He is either offering no view at all or when he rarely does he's wrong! It's insulting to have these morons talking to us about football. Just because they played the game doesn't mean they understand the finer points of it. It's probably why they aren't managers! Get some journalists in, people who are paid to offer views and analysis and won't be as afraid to upset their mates in the game as this pathetic lot. Oh, one final thing. Never, ever, let Harry Redknapp, any Redknapp for that matter on TV again. Him shamelessly advertising himself for the England job was shameful and he should be called up on it. Awful man.
The Good
Diego Forlan
Being chosen as Player of the World Cup might well be the first time in history FIFA have got something anywhere approaching correct in recent years. And for this they should be congratulated. Forlan has been making Ferguson's decision to cast him aside look very silly in Spain ever since he went there. However, due to the incredibly insular attitude this nations media have he has rarely been given the credit he deserves. He has been Pichichi (Top Scorer) in Spain 2 of the last 3 years, and doesn't play for Real Madrid or Barcelona. He has been the key man in getting Uruguay to the Semi-Finals playing in more of a playmaker role for his country. This hasn't stopped him banging in 5 goals and tying for 2nd spot in the Golden Boot though. A fantastic player, and this award will hopefully see him stop being referred to as 'ex-Man Utd flop' Diego Forlan!
Sergio Ramos
I think this man has been superb in this tournament. He wont get that much credit because he's 'just' a right-back, but he has been immense. Whilst Spain won the tournament I think outside of David Villa and perhaps Iker Casillas you would struggle to say anyone stood out. For me Ramos did just that with his non-stop energy on the right hand side. He could often be seen making a tackle in his own half, then giving the ball to Xavi, before popping up at the other end to make a run into the box before passing or crossing to the forwards. One of Roy Hodgson's first tasks at Liverpool should be to show Glen Johnson that this is how to be an attacking full-back whilst still actually defending!
Cracking Goals
Before the match last night on BBC they showed a run down of the best goals, and there have been some belters! Once the players got the hang of the ball they were letting fly from everywhere. Van Bronckhorst's howlitzer for Holland against Uruguay was a fine example of this. It was like an exocet missile heading for the top corner! Maicon's beauty against North Korea from almost the byline was another beauty. The fact that some pundits were questioning whether he meant it should see them being ushered out of the door for showing such poor knowledge in my opinion. He has form for it, having done it for Inter on more than one occasion in the last couple of seasons.
Germany
One team that did try to attack was the Germans. Scoring 4 goals three times was a breath of fresh air in this often boring tournament and they should be commended for trying to beat the opposition rather than just trying not to lose. Whilst they are a counter-attacking team, they were relentless once they got their noses in front. As Australia, England and Argentina will testify. The decision to have Bastia Schweinsteiger as a defensive midfielder was key in this. Whilst most teams had 1, or even 2, destroyers Germany had an ex-winger who was comfortable joining in in attack. With Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira also impressive alongside him they weren't going to sit back or kick people as most other teams seemed content too. Themselves and Argentina were probably the 2 most attractive sides in the tournament and did their best to make it exciting.
The Bad
Cheating
The amount of cheating that now goes on has reached ridiculous levels and is beginning to actually turn me off some games. Even the final was tainted for me by the fact that Iniesta had been throwing himself about, waving imaginary cards around, getting Heitinga sent off and just generally being a horrible, pasty little man! This World Cup has showed that something needs to be done to stop all of this before people start watching a mor emanly sport like say synchronised swimming!? This is a huge bugbear of mine anyway and this tournament has just fuelled my rage. Grown men throwing themselves at the floor then rolling round clutching body parts because someone has breathed on them is not what football is about. I'm not sure what the answer is, but I have seen some interesting ideas floated. I would definitely introduce a straight yellow card for anyone that waves an imaginary one trying to get a fellow player booked. I would look at retrospective punishments for diving, although I do relaise this may mean the end of Arjen Robben's career. I realise this would be harder to implement as there needs to be a line drawn as to how much you can realistically review, but players need to know that they will be punished. If you roll round the floor like someone has just broken your leg then you should have to receive a minimum of 5 minutes with a physio checking you haven't. Whilst some of these are obviously in jest, the sentiment is not.
The Makelele Role
This is another of my pet hates and seems to be very en vogue at the moment. Under Jose Mourinho Makelele was hyped up beyond belief for what I see as little more than being a nuisance and passing the ball under 5 yards. This has led to most managers now thinking that what their team needs is a player in this role. You only have to look at Michael Essien or Bastian Schweinsteiger to see that a defensive midfielder can offer so much more. This World Cup has seen truly dreadful players like Busquets, Mascherano, Van Bommel all basically fouling people to break up play, but doing it where they are unlikely to be booked. Germany did well on the back of Shweinsteiger being able to start attacks from that position and this should be the future blueprint. I'm all for players being disciplined, but this is a step too far. When you are asking a player to stop the opposition playing by any means necessary and actively discouraging any actual football being played then something has gone awry in my opinion.
England
Dreadful. Horrendous. Embarrassing. These words go some way to describe the 'performances' put in by the national team. The only positive thing that should come out of this is a realsiation of where England actually rank in the grand scheme of things. To have qualified 2nd from the weakest group in the World Cup is bad enough, to then be made to wear a dress and cry by Germany is just dreadful. Whilst England definitely didn't perform at their very best, it should also now be realised that barring Ashley Cole none of these players are truly world class. My definition of this is 'would they get in a squad of 23 if picking a world team?'. I can only see Cashley in that squad. No before people start banging on about Rooney, most would pick 5 or 6 attackers in that squad. I would take Villa, Drogba, Messi, Ronaldo and Iniesta before Rooney without thinking. This leaves him battling with players like Forlan, Ozil and Tevez for the final spot. For all the hype surrounding Rooney I don' think he's any better than someone like Tevez. In fact I'd have them as very similar. They are both nowhere near as technically able as players like Messi and Ronaldo, but will put the effort in to compensate for this. See the amount of passes that bounce off Rooney's shins for further evidence. I'm not saying he's poor, far from it, just that to Lord him as an equal of Messi is nothing short of a lie.
Englands TV Pundits
Of all the things that were bad at this World Cup I would say that by some distance the worst was listening to these people's 'expert' views and analysis. The only man who talked any sense or gave any insight was Clarence Seedorf and you could often see his mirth at being surrounded by such buffoons. ITV were undoubtebly the worst, as usual. Edgar Davids was the Winston Bogarde of their outfit, content to just sit there and pick up his wages. Andy Townsend is surely clinging t his job by the fingernails. He offers nothing more than platitudes about how 'the boy done good' and his ignorance of foreign players is surely a sackable offence. If your job is to give analysis of teams at the World Cup how can you do no research and then laugh at their funny names!? I'd expect to be sacked if I was that bad at my job. Hansen looks like he gave up caring long ago, which is a shame because he can be good. Lineker's autcue jokes aren't even so bad they're funny, they're just crap. And Shearer. Jesus wept. He is either offering no view at all or when he rarely does he's wrong! It's insulting to have these morons talking to us about football. Just because they played the game doesn't mean they understand the finer points of it. It's probably why they aren't managers! Get some journalists in, people who are paid to offer views and analysis and won't be as afraid to upset their mates in the game as this pathetic lot. Oh, one final thing. Never, ever, let Harry Redknapp, any Redknapp for that matter on TV again. Him shamelessly advertising himself for the England job was shameful and he should be called up on it. Awful man.
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