# Team Manager Total
1 Bedok United FC Jüergen Ghazmann 194
2 Lethal Force pablo aizat 181
3 shownomersey Aditya V Kumar 174
4 dEviL's oWn Jason Ong 170
4 Pasukan Merah hamid md 170
6 Atletico Liverpool Andrew Clarke 161
7 Aska Aska Yoyo 156
8 dogolz Muhamad Iskandar 153
9 Malice Mizers eugene yap 143
10 Sartresque razak omar 132
11 ghazie Abdul Mutalib Khan 128
12 Kesebelasan Utama Mohd Imran 126
13 Roy of the Rovers Jack Pilgrim 124
14 18YB Football Club faizal mohamad 112
15 Asal Boleh Aje hafiz ali 103
16 True Blue Zixiang Zhang 98
17 Riders of Rohan Azli Mohamed 93
18 Rebel Skullz husaini jaafar 72
Friday, 31 August 2007
Champions League Group Phase Draw
Group A: Liverpool, Porto, Marseille and Besiktas
Liverpool have been handed one of the easier groups on paper, like last year when they found themselves against the likes of Bordeaux and PSV. They should qualify with at least a game to spare, but rafa will be wary of resting too many players. A shock reverse in Porto or Marseille, and they be in tricky territory.
Simply put, they will not want to finish second at any cost. The battle for second place will be very very tight. Porto and Marseille will start slight favourites, but if Besiktas can get some consistency going and win their home games, it will be very even tighter.
Group B: Chelsea, Valencia, Schalke and Rosenborg
This is undoubtedly one of the biggest groups. Valencia were the toughest of the groups not among the top eight seeds, and will meet Chelsea in a repeat of last season's tight Champions League quarter-final.
Schalke only just lost out on the Bundesliga last year, and will be no pushovers. They will be ready to pick up the pieces from the top two, and a couple of good home wins could see them become a big factor. Rosenborg, with all due respect, will bring up the rear, hoping to cause an upset or two along the way.
It will be very interesting to see who wins the group. There was almost nothing to separate Chelsea and Valencia last season, and both play similar football too. Interestingly, the Blues have never quite had it easy. They faced Liverpool in the group stage two years ago, and Barcelona last year.
Group C: Real Madrid, Werder Bremen, Lazio and Olympiakos
A rather exciting group that contains some quality teams from across Europe! Real Madrid will be the favourites on paper, but as Werder showed last season by beating Chelsea and nearly beating Barcelona, they will be no easy pickings.
If Lazio do not pick up injuries given their limited squad, they can be expected to put up quite a resistance. Olympiakos are always dangerous, and will sniff an outside chance of making it through, though a very outside one.
Real Madrid should win this barring disaster. Lazio and Werder will have to fight hard to beat each other, particularly with Oly. lurking in the background.
Group D: AC Milan, Benfica, Celtic and Shakhtar Donetsk
Milan, like Chelsea, get one of their knock-out stage opponents in Celtic. The defending champions have an easy group on paper, and should cruise through if they bring anything close to their A game into the tournament.
That said, trips away to Celtic and Shakhtar will be very tricky, given the massive weather change. It could be cold and wet, or worse, frozen.
Benfica and Celtic found themselves in the same group last season, and with Shakhtar unlikely to drop too many points at home, it will be a very close battle for second place.
The presence of Lucarelli and Nery Castillo in Shakhtar's ranks suggests the Ukrainians could be the dark horses for second place. If you get good odds, take it!
Group E: Barcelona, Lyon, Stuttgart, Rangers
On the face of it, this one looks like a positive group for Barcelona. However, with French and German champions to contend with, and a triky trip to Glasgow also in store, there is absolutely no room for error. They qualified on the final day last season after some early reverses, and will be wary of just that.
Stuttgart and Lyon will, on paper, compete for second place, but a home win over Barcelona, and you never know. They can be very tricky, particularly if the Catalans continue to struggle. It will be a pity to see one of the two go into the Uefa Cup.
Rangers, meanwhile, will be left ruing their luck. They will be ready for the battle, make no mistake, and they can compete with Lyon and Stuttgart on their day, but they will surely wonder what they did to deserve such a tricky group.
Barcelona and Lyon are early favourites, but with Alain Perrin's team without quite a few of their stars at the moment, some through injury, a bet on Stuttgart could be a wise one.
Group F: Manchester United, Roma, Sporting Lisbon and Dynamo Kiev.
This group is undoubtedly the most exciting one. With Roma and Manchester United expected to provide us with nothing but more fireworks (hopefully only on the pitch this time around), one cannot wait for the action to begin.
Nani and Ronaldo will be re-united with their old clubs when the Red Devils face Sporting, but the twist in the take could come thanks to Dynamo Kiev.
While they remain outsiders to qualify, their sensational form in the always intimidating and chilly Kiev means that plenty of teams will drop points, points which could ultimately decide who qualifies and who does not.
On paper, Manchester United remain favourites ahead of Roma, but do not expect the remaining two to give way. It is unlikely to be decided before the final day. If Roma and United play out a couple of fiesty draws, get a couple suspended, and then one of them drops points in Kiev, there could well be a shock.
Group G: Inter Milan, PSV, CSKA Moscow and Fenerbahce
The Italian champions actually have one of the easier groups, like Liverpool. After being grouped with Bayern last time around, they will relish an easy passage.
That is exactly what lies in store unless we see more of what we saw against Udinese on Sunday. PSV are favourites for second place, but with tricky trips to Russia and Turkey, there are simply no guarantees.
CSKA showed against, Arsenal, Porto and Hamburg last year that they mean business, and they will do just that again. As for Fenerbahce, you never quite know what to expect.
Group H: Arsenal, Sevilla/AEK, Steaua Bucharest, Slavia Prague
Arsenal seem to have been handed a reasonable draw, but so was the case last year when they found Porto, Hamburg and CSKA. The Gunners are more mature, but then they have a trickier opponent in the marauding Sevilla, who have been in sensational form.
The death of Antonio Puerta could upset them, but the chances are that it will only fire them up further, such is their mentality. Steaua and Slavia will have to come up with something really special to factor into the scheme of things.
Three rounds of action should be enough to pretty confirm the two teams that go will through, but the battle for first place in the group will be trickier than most believe.
from goal.com
Liverpool have been handed one of the easier groups on paper, like last year when they found themselves against the likes of Bordeaux and PSV. They should qualify with at least a game to spare, but rafa will be wary of resting too many players. A shock reverse in Porto or Marseille, and they be in tricky territory.
Simply put, they will not want to finish second at any cost. The battle for second place will be very very tight. Porto and Marseille will start slight favourites, but if Besiktas can get some consistency going and win their home games, it will be very even tighter.
Group B: Chelsea, Valencia, Schalke and Rosenborg
This is undoubtedly one of the biggest groups. Valencia were the toughest of the groups not among the top eight seeds, and will meet Chelsea in a repeat of last season's tight Champions League quarter-final.
Schalke only just lost out on the Bundesliga last year, and will be no pushovers. They will be ready to pick up the pieces from the top two, and a couple of good home wins could see them become a big factor. Rosenborg, with all due respect, will bring up the rear, hoping to cause an upset or two along the way.
It will be very interesting to see who wins the group. There was almost nothing to separate Chelsea and Valencia last season, and both play similar football too. Interestingly, the Blues have never quite had it easy. They faced Liverpool in the group stage two years ago, and Barcelona last year.
Group C: Real Madrid, Werder Bremen, Lazio and Olympiakos
A rather exciting group that contains some quality teams from across Europe! Real Madrid will be the favourites on paper, but as Werder showed last season by beating Chelsea and nearly beating Barcelona, they will be no easy pickings.
If Lazio do not pick up injuries given their limited squad, they can be expected to put up quite a resistance. Olympiakos are always dangerous, and will sniff an outside chance of making it through, though a very outside one.
Real Madrid should win this barring disaster. Lazio and Werder will have to fight hard to beat each other, particularly with Oly. lurking in the background.
Group D: AC Milan, Benfica, Celtic and Shakhtar Donetsk
Milan, like Chelsea, get one of their knock-out stage opponents in Celtic. The defending champions have an easy group on paper, and should cruise through if they bring anything close to their A game into the tournament.
That said, trips away to Celtic and Shakhtar will be very tricky, given the massive weather change. It could be cold and wet, or worse, frozen.
Benfica and Celtic found themselves in the same group last season, and with Shakhtar unlikely to drop too many points at home, it will be a very close battle for second place.
The presence of Lucarelli and Nery Castillo in Shakhtar's ranks suggests the Ukrainians could be the dark horses for second place. If you get good odds, take it!
Group E: Barcelona, Lyon, Stuttgart, Rangers
On the face of it, this one looks like a positive group for Barcelona. However, with French and German champions to contend with, and a triky trip to Glasgow also in store, there is absolutely no room for error. They qualified on the final day last season after some early reverses, and will be wary of just that.
Stuttgart and Lyon will, on paper, compete for second place, but a home win over Barcelona, and you never know. They can be very tricky, particularly if the Catalans continue to struggle. It will be a pity to see one of the two go into the Uefa Cup.
Rangers, meanwhile, will be left ruing their luck. They will be ready for the battle, make no mistake, and they can compete with Lyon and Stuttgart on their day, but they will surely wonder what they did to deserve such a tricky group.
Barcelona and Lyon are early favourites, but with Alain Perrin's team without quite a few of their stars at the moment, some through injury, a bet on Stuttgart could be a wise one.
Group F: Manchester United, Roma, Sporting Lisbon and Dynamo Kiev.
This group is undoubtedly the most exciting one. With Roma and Manchester United expected to provide us with nothing but more fireworks (hopefully only on the pitch this time around), one cannot wait for the action to begin.
Nani and Ronaldo will be re-united with their old clubs when the Red Devils face Sporting, but the twist in the take could come thanks to Dynamo Kiev.
While they remain outsiders to qualify, their sensational form in the always intimidating and chilly Kiev means that plenty of teams will drop points, points which could ultimately decide who qualifies and who does not.
On paper, Manchester United remain favourites ahead of Roma, but do not expect the remaining two to give way. It is unlikely to be decided before the final day. If Roma and United play out a couple of fiesty draws, get a couple suspended, and then one of them drops points in Kiev, there could well be a shock.
Group G: Inter Milan, PSV, CSKA Moscow and Fenerbahce
The Italian champions actually have one of the easier groups, like Liverpool. After being grouped with Bayern last time around, they will relish an easy passage.
That is exactly what lies in store unless we see more of what we saw against Udinese on Sunday. PSV are favourites for second place, but with tricky trips to Russia and Turkey, there are simply no guarantees.
CSKA showed against, Arsenal, Porto and Hamburg last year that they mean business, and they will do just that again. As for Fenerbahce, you never quite know what to expect.
Group H: Arsenal, Sevilla/AEK, Steaua Bucharest, Slavia Prague
Arsenal seem to have been handed a reasonable draw, but so was the case last year when they found Porto, Hamburg and CSKA. The Gunners are more mature, but then they have a trickier opponent in the marauding Sevilla, who have been in sensational form.
The death of Antonio Puerta could upset them, but the chances are that it will only fire them up further, such is their mentality. Steaua and Slavia will have to come up with something really special to factor into the scheme of things.
Three rounds of action should be enough to pretty confirm the two teams that go will through, but the battle for first place in the group will be trickier than most believe.
from goal.com
Sunday, 26 August 2007
Pesta Bola Merdeka aka Merdeka Cup
Tournament hosted by Malaysia. It is an under 23 soccer tournament.
Semi Final Draw
Singapore vs Malaysia
Myanmar vs Zimbabwe
Semi Final Draw
Singapore vs Malaysia
Myanmar vs Zimbabwe
Juventus and Real get off to good starts
Italy
Juventus 5-1 Livorno
Lazio 2-2 Torino
Spain
Real Madrid 2-1 Atletico Madrid
Murcia 2-1 Zaragoza
Sevilla 4-1 Getafe
Juventus 5-1 Livorno
Lazio 2-2 Torino
Spain
Real Madrid 2-1 Atletico Madrid
Murcia 2-1 Zaragoza
Sevilla 4-1 Getafe
Monday, 20 August 2007
Winners and Losers of the Weekend
Winners
Micah Richards
An immense talent. On the evidence of 2007/08, England will not miss Jamie Carragher.
For all the fuss generated by Sven-Goran Eriksson's spending spree, the Swede's best move this summer was identifying Richards, previously deployed at right-back, as Sylvain Distin's replacement alongside Richard Dunne.
Manchester Citeh
Last season, it was impossible to discuss Citeh at length because there was nothing to say once their tedium had been berated. This year's difficulty is the impossibility of fathoming whether their revival is founded on Swedish genius or simple good fortune. Against ManYoo, they were pummelled yet somehow prevailed. Rope-a-dope? Only the dopey would argue as much. With the honourable exceptions of Richards and Dunne, the Citeh performance actually verged on the horrendous.
Chelski
Their resilience is remarkable, yet without Rob Styles' botched meddling then Jose Mourinho's disingenuous insistence that his side sought victory at Anfield would have been indisputably refuted: Frank Lampard's penalty was the visitors' only shot on target.
Losers
ManYoo
The champions weren't in crisis in midweek and the debit of another point to their championship rivals hardly justifies an amendment. Nonetheless, the nature of their third successive setback was concerning.
Playing both ahead of his best position and schedule, Carlos Tevez could not disguise his inadequacy as a centre-forward. The designated replacement for Wayne Rooney is not suited to spearhead an attack and, as a consequence, too much of United's play was convoluted, thereby restricting the ratio of possession to goalscoring opportunities. Both Ryan Giggs and the disappointing Nani were guilty of drifting inwards -.....
Read The full article HERE
Micah Richards
An immense talent. On the evidence of 2007/08, England will not miss Jamie Carragher.
For all the fuss generated by Sven-Goran Eriksson's spending spree, the Swede's best move this summer was identifying Richards, previously deployed at right-back, as Sylvain Distin's replacement alongside Richard Dunne.
Manchester Citeh
Last season, it was impossible to discuss Citeh at length because there was nothing to say once their tedium had been berated. This year's difficulty is the impossibility of fathoming whether their revival is founded on Swedish genius or simple good fortune. Against ManYoo, they were pummelled yet somehow prevailed. Rope-a-dope? Only the dopey would argue as much. With the honourable exceptions of Richards and Dunne, the Citeh performance actually verged on the horrendous.
Chelski
Their resilience is remarkable, yet without Rob Styles' botched meddling then Jose Mourinho's disingenuous insistence that his side sought victory at Anfield would have been indisputably refuted: Frank Lampard's penalty was the visitors' only shot on target.
Losers
ManYoo
The champions weren't in crisis in midweek and the debit of another point to their championship rivals hardly justifies an amendment. Nonetheless, the nature of their third successive setback was concerning.
Playing both ahead of his best position and schedule, Carlos Tevez could not disguise his inadequacy as a centre-forward. The designated replacement for Wayne Rooney is not suited to spearhead an attack and, as a consequence, too much of United's play was convoluted, thereby restricting the ratio of possession to goalscoring opportunities. Both Ryan Giggs and the disappointing Nani were guilty of drifting inwards -.....
Read The full article HERE
The Screwup Gets A Match Ban
Referees' chief Keith Hackett has admitted that the decision by Rob Styles to award Chelsea a penalty against Liverpool on Sunday was wrong, and has confirmed that he will not be in charge of a game next weekend.
In an unprecedented move, Hackett admitted to Sky Sports News that the decision was wrong and has confirmed that disciplinary action will be taken against the referee.
Liverpool were leading the match 1-0 until Styles gave a penalty to the away side after Florent Malouda seemed to jump into the back of Steve Finnan. The referee thought differently, judging that Finnan dragged the Chelsea man down.
There was uproar after the match as Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez fumed that the decision was entirely flawed.
Reds skipper Steven Gerrard had this morning rallied for Styles to publicly apologise and surprisingly, in a signal of intent from the Referee’s governing body, that’s exactly what he will do.
However there’ll be further ramifications for Styles who will now not be allowed to referee this weekend
“Rob Styles admits he got the decision.....
Read the full article HERE
In an unprecedented move, Hackett admitted to Sky Sports News that the decision was wrong and has confirmed that disciplinary action will be taken against the referee.
Liverpool were leading the match 1-0 until Styles gave a penalty to the away side after Florent Malouda seemed to jump into the back of Steve Finnan. The referee thought differently, judging that Finnan dragged the Chelsea man down.
There was uproar after the match as Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez fumed that the decision was entirely flawed.
Reds skipper Steven Gerrard had this morning rallied for Styles to publicly apologise and surprisingly, in a signal of intent from the Referee’s governing body, that’s exactly what he will do.
However there’ll be further ramifications for Styles who will now not be allowed to referee this weekend
“Rob Styles admits he got the decision.....
Read the full article HERE
Modern Boots to be Blamed?
In the wake of Wayne Rooney’s recent foot injury, the integrity of modern football boots has once again been called into question. It seems as though more footballers than ever are succumbing to the fabled ‘broken metatarsal’, which begs the question: are boots really to blame?
Let’s get the science bit over and done with first. The metatarsus is the area in the top of your foot that consists of five individual bones, the metatarsals, one for each toe. A broken metatarsal is sustained by a sudden, forceful impact, often in the middle of the bone, and will generally take anything from four to ten weeks to completely recover from.
Wayne Rooney became the latest victim of a fractured foot bone whilst playing Reading at the weekend. After getting on the end of a Ronaldo cross, Rooney made contact, first with the ball, but then with the foot of Michael Duberry who was stretching to intercept the shot. The striker went down in a heap but promptly got back to his feet to see out the remainder of the first half before he was replaced at the break.
The England international was immediately sent for a scan which.....
Read the full article HERE
Let’s get the science bit over and done with first. The metatarsus is the area in the top of your foot that consists of five individual bones, the metatarsals, one for each toe. A broken metatarsal is sustained by a sudden, forceful impact, often in the middle of the bone, and will generally take anything from four to ten weeks to completely recover from.
Wayne Rooney became the latest victim of a fractured foot bone whilst playing Reading at the weekend. After getting on the end of a Ronaldo cross, Rooney made contact, first with the ball, but then with the foot of Michael Duberry who was stretching to intercept the shot. The striker went down in a heap but promptly got back to his feet to see out the remainder of the first half before he was replaced at the break.
The England international was immediately sent for a scan which.....
Read the full article HERE
Liverpool vs Chelsea Reflections
Goal.com’s George Tsitsonis reflects on Liverpool and Chelsea’s controversial 1-1 draw Sunday at Anfield and what the result means to both sides in the aftermath. Liverpool are looking for their first title in 17 years, while Chelsea want to regain the title after losing out to Manchester United last season.
As Rafa Benitez and Jose Mourinho shook hands at the end of their clubs’ titanic tussle on Sunday, it would be of no surprise if the Portuguese coach had more reason to smile than his Spanish counterpart after Liverpool and Chelsea played out a 1-1 draw at Anfield.
And how could Mourinho not be happy? After all, lady luck smiled on Mourinho as a highly contentious penalty decision gave his side the breakthrough they so desperately needed in order to avoid defeat for the 17th consecutive match dating back to last season. After injuries that affected last season’s campaign as well as the start of the current one, Mourinho may have thought that this was just a matter of things canceling themselves out as this time fate dealt the Blues a favorable hand.
Whether it was luck or not, the main talking point of this entertaining and hard-fought affair came in the 61st minute. It was then.....
Read the full article HERE
As Rafa Benitez and Jose Mourinho shook hands at the end of their clubs’ titanic tussle on Sunday, it would be of no surprise if the Portuguese coach had more reason to smile than his Spanish counterpart after Liverpool and Chelsea played out a 1-1 draw at Anfield.
And how could Mourinho not be happy? After all, lady luck smiled on Mourinho as a highly contentious penalty decision gave his side the breakthrough they so desperately needed in order to avoid defeat for the 17th consecutive match dating back to last season. After injuries that affected last season’s campaign as well as the start of the current one, Mourinho may have thought that this was just a matter of things canceling themselves out as this time fate dealt the Blues a favorable hand.
Whether it was luck or not, the main talking point of this entertaining and hard-fought affair came in the 61st minute. It was then.....
Read the full article HERE
Wednesday, 15 August 2007
Monday, 13 August 2007
Weekend Results
Sunderland V Tottenham 1 - 0
A shock to our system this one. Tottenham didn't play too great in this game. One have to consider the overconfidence factor in this game. Tottenham lack of width was evident with 4 midfielders who either play in the middle or likes to stray in the middle. Malbranque, a right midfielder was on the left. They also had a makeshift defence with King and Dawson out but u cant really put any blame on the defenders for their lack of ability to score. Sunderland had a dream start to their campaign. McShane was holding his own against Berbatov. Keano was the epitome of calmness, showing his trust in his players and they repaid him in that last minute goal by Chopra.
Bolton V Newcastle 1 - 3
Sammy Lee got introduced to the premier league in the first half of the game. They lost the game at halftime by trailing 3-0. Big Sam once again transformed Newcastle to a impressive attacking team. Defensive problems of the past seem to be gone, at least in this game. The game was more even in the second half but it was 45 mins too late for Bolton.
Derby V Portsmouth 2 - 2
Didn't watch the game. Derby will be absolutely delighted with the draw. Always good to pick up points in the first game. Could be false hope though.
Everton V Wigan 2 - 1
Solid start for Everton. Always strong at home defeating relegation candidates wigan. Could a worse to come for sorry wigan.
Middlesbrough V Blackburn 1 - 2
A cracker of a game with end to end action. Mark Hughes will be happy with his new striker Santa Cruz. He, alongside Derbyshire scored two great goals to seal the tie for Rovers. One low point was the fact that Benny McCarthy had to be brought to the
hospital after suffering a knock to the head. A good game to catch if u haven't seen it yet.
West Ham V Man. City 0 - 2
Sven get off to a good start beating a lacklustre West Ham side. Sven team played like a European side. They looked to attack whenever they get the ball. Not much slow possession game by City. It was a very direct style set up by Sven. Surprisingly, they looked good as a team, despite new arrivals making up majority of the playing squad. Martin Petrov and Elano are players who impressed. Curbishley has a lot of work to do to prevent West Ham from getting sucked into a relegation dogfight.
Aston Villa V Liverpool 1 - 2
Liverpool had StevieG to thank for the 3 points. After a balanced first half, Villa conquered the game throughout only to have Gerrard scoring a great winner from a free kick. Babel looked good with his direct style. Pennant was poor. Villa looked to be a decent outfit this season but don't expect them to overachieve. Safe mid table for them.
Arsenal V Fulham 2 - 1
Lehmann out, Fabianski in. He had a poor game, the German. Once again Arsenal looked irresistible...right up to the penalty box when they take a step too far most of the times. Shoot guys, shoot more. Defence was looking jittery throughout the match as well. But with the attacking football they play, they will always have the chance of nicking it when it is needed. Gilberto was missed very much. They need him back fast.
Chelsea V Birmingham 3 - 2
Kudos to birmingham for giving Chelsea a run for thier money. But like the past few seasons, Chelsea just managed to get that winning goal. No Terry, concede goals, just like last season. Kalou and Malouda looked good for Chelsea. Lampard seems to be less influential recently.
Man. United V Reading 0 - 0
They huffed and puffed but the hse just did not want to fall. Nothing wrong with Man Utd display except for the fact they could not find the net. This is a problem Tevez should eb able to rectify. He has scored at Old Trafford before. Carrick was a class act with his superb passing. Evra was played out in left midfield and did ok. Ferie wont be happy with the draw especially if rivals Arsenal and Chelsea has picked up full points.
A shock to our system this one. Tottenham didn't play too great in this game. One have to consider the overconfidence factor in this game. Tottenham lack of width was evident with 4 midfielders who either play in the middle or likes to stray in the middle. Malbranque, a right midfielder was on the left. They also had a makeshift defence with King and Dawson out but u cant really put any blame on the defenders for their lack of ability to score. Sunderland had a dream start to their campaign. McShane was holding his own against Berbatov. Keano was the epitome of calmness, showing his trust in his players and they repaid him in that last minute goal by Chopra.
Bolton V Newcastle 1 - 3
Sammy Lee got introduced to the premier league in the first half of the game. They lost the game at halftime by trailing 3-0. Big Sam once again transformed Newcastle to a impressive attacking team. Defensive problems of the past seem to be gone, at least in this game. The game was more even in the second half but it was 45 mins too late for Bolton.
Derby V Portsmouth 2 - 2
Didn't watch the game. Derby will be absolutely delighted with the draw. Always good to pick up points in the first game. Could be false hope though.
Everton V Wigan 2 - 1
Solid start for Everton. Always strong at home defeating relegation candidates wigan. Could a worse to come for sorry wigan.
Middlesbrough V Blackburn 1 - 2
A cracker of a game with end to end action. Mark Hughes will be happy with his new striker Santa Cruz. He, alongside Derbyshire scored two great goals to seal the tie for Rovers. One low point was the fact that Benny McCarthy had to be brought to the
hospital after suffering a knock to the head. A good game to catch if u haven't seen it yet.
West Ham V Man. City 0 - 2
Sven get off to a good start beating a lacklustre West Ham side. Sven team played like a European side. They looked to attack whenever they get the ball. Not much slow possession game by City. It was a very direct style set up by Sven. Surprisingly, they looked good as a team, despite new arrivals making up majority of the playing squad. Martin Petrov and Elano are players who impressed. Curbishley has a lot of work to do to prevent West Ham from getting sucked into a relegation dogfight.
Aston Villa V Liverpool 1 - 2
Liverpool had StevieG to thank for the 3 points. After a balanced first half, Villa conquered the game throughout only to have Gerrard scoring a great winner from a free kick. Babel looked good with his direct style. Pennant was poor. Villa looked to be a decent outfit this season but don't expect them to overachieve. Safe mid table for them.
Arsenal V Fulham 2 - 1
Lehmann out, Fabianski in. He had a poor game, the German. Once again Arsenal looked irresistible...right up to the penalty box when they take a step too far most of the times. Shoot guys, shoot more. Defence was looking jittery throughout the match as well. But with the attacking football they play, they will always have the chance of nicking it when it is needed. Gilberto was missed very much. They need him back fast.
Chelsea V Birmingham 3 - 2
Kudos to birmingham for giving Chelsea a run for thier money. But like the past few seasons, Chelsea just managed to get that winning goal. No Terry, concede goals, just like last season. Kalou and Malouda looked good for Chelsea. Lampard seems to be less influential recently.
Man. United V Reading 0 - 0
They huffed and puffed but the hse just did not want to fall. Nothing wrong with Man Utd display except for the fact they could not find the net. This is a problem Tevez should eb able to rectify. He has scored at Old Trafford before. Carrick was a class act with his superb passing. Evra was played out in left midfield and did ok. Ferie wont be happy with the draw especially if rivals Arsenal and Chelsea has picked up full points.
Friday, 10 August 2007
Wanna hear ur predictions
Copy and Paste these fixtures as comments and provide your predictions along with it.
Middlesbrough vs Blackburn Rovers
West Ham vs Manchester City
Sunderland vs Tottenham
Bolton vs Newcastle
Aston Villa vs Liverpool
Derby vs Portsmouth
Everton vs Wigan
Arsenal vs Fulham
Chelsea vs Birmingham
Man United vs Reading
Middlesbrough vs Blackburn Rovers
West Ham vs Manchester City
Sunderland vs Tottenham
Bolton vs Newcastle
Aston Villa vs Liverpool
Derby vs Portsmouth
Everton vs Wigan
Arsenal vs Fulham
Chelsea vs Birmingham
Man United vs Reading
Tevez Officially a Red Devil
Carlos tevez has finally been cleared by the Premier League to become a Man United player. At least on loan that is. Tevez joins the champions on a two year loan deal with the option for Man United to buy him after that.
"Manchester United is delighted to announce that Carlos Tevez has been registered as a member of its first-team squad by the Premier League," read a statement on the club's official website.
Dont get excited to see him this weekend. Sir Alex has come out and said that it is unlikely. "I am happy with that because then we know we are getting a player in the right circumstances, with everything clarified and cleared by the appropriate authorities. We know he is our player but even if it was all done today, I wouldn't use him on Sunday. It would more likely be against Manchester City next weekend."
Its a mighty fine time to be a Man Utd fan right now. Tevez joins Nani, Anderson and Hargreaves as Man United new recruits. It is most likely Man Utd will buy him out when his loan finishes. A strong team just got stronger, well in attack that is. They still need to get better defenders into the team. Rio was exposed during the Shield. They need at least another defender coming in. Thats just our opinion.
Saturday Predictions
Here are some of out thoughts(have some free time) and predictions on the upcoming games. We would love to hear your comments and maybe your predictions as well. Feel free to post your comments/predictions. We will keep track of your predictions and see who can see the future best.
Middlesbrough vs Blackburn
Boro has always been unpredictable especially at home with notable victories over the likes of chelsea and manyoo in the past. They have not really strenghtenend the team much. Signings that we are looking forward to see are Sanli Tuncay (he is damn good in FM) and also former arsenal striker Aliadiere. Viduka is out so we expect a new look attack for Boro. Will it be effective remains to be see. This gonna be an important season for Southgate as he has reiterate that his youngsters is good enough for the premiership. Woodgate, Pogatetz and Huth are missing with injury so we expect Boro's defence to be patchy.
Blackburn did the double on Boro last season. They have reinforced their strikeforce with Paraguayan Santa Cruz. We expect him to start with Benny McCarthy, thier top scorer last season. With Gamst and Bentley in support, it is a strong attack. On paper, Hughes men looked the better side and they have no major injury worries. Savage and Ooijer will be back from horrific injuries at the end of last season so they should be up for this.
Predictions: We dont see Middlesbrough winning this one. A makeshift defence against a strong Blackburn attack looks to shift the advantage to Rovers. Boro will be happy with a draw. Rovers to win 2-0.
West Ham vs Manchester City
Honestly, these are the two middle table teams we are most excited to see. Its West Ham after Coker-Tevez Era against Thai-backed Sven's outfit. Both team have been busy during the summer. Well thats an understatement if u looked at how many Sven has recruited. West Ham will be without their new signing Parker for this one so expect Noble to start in the middle in his place. Bellamy would most likely be making his debut and a gut feeling says he's gonna excel at Upton park. Ljunberg is also set to begin his new adventure. A cast away from Arsenal, we still he still has much to offer. Boa Morte on the left with Ljungnerg down the right. Thats ability and experience much present. They just need to make sure they dont leak as much goals as last season. An unfortunate fact their defence has no new signings.
Man City oh Man City. Where do we start on this team. Sven is currently undertaking his revolution for the blue half of manchester. Recent signings Valeri Bojinov, Vedran Corluka and Elano will be waiting for their international clearance to play this weekend. Rolando Bianchi, Geovanni, Gelson Fernandes, Javi Garrido and Martin Petrov will hope to figure in the match. Man City will never look like last season thats for sure. At least playing staff-wise, results wise? Time will tell. After bore-ing us with the England national team, it will be intriguing to see how Sven sets out his team and the kind of football he plays. His track record with league football has been good to his credit but the premier league is a whole different ball game.
Predictions: very close to call. Any victory would most probably be for West Ham. Reason being that they have a more settled team at the moment. Man City is still right now a bunch of good players. Will they make a good team? We gonna play safe on this one and say an exciting 2-2 draw as the final score.
Sunderland vs Tottenham
The first kickoff of the season and Keano will pray that this will give a boost to his side because they are gonna need it against an impressive pre season Spurs. The big question is will Sunderland be good enough for the premiership. looking at their team list, they are really no notable quality in his team but then again we said that about Wigan and Reading. If Kieran Richardson and ageing Dwight Yorke are the biggest names in your squad, Sunderland is in for a rocky ride. Keano's team absoulutely crushed the Championship so this will really be a more true reflection of the team's ability. Look out for Carlos Edwards. He has a good world cup for TnT. All eyes will also be on Craig Gordon, the 9 million pounds keeper.
Tottenham is looking very impressive for this season. Darren Bent has arrived to add more firepower to an already strong front line. They have also strengthened where needed, in defence, with Bale and Kaboul. What they need more this season is a fit Ledley King. If he can remain injury-free, Tottenham will do well and maybe break into the top four. But.....He's out for this one yet again. One can never be sure which two Jol will select in his predictable 4-4-2. For our sake we would like to see Berbatov and Bent to start with Keane behind them. Ooooo...that would wet our taste buds indeed.
Predictions: No chance for Sunderland. Tottenham if play to thier potential should run away with this. An away win to start this weekend. 3-1 Spurs win.
Bolton vs Newcastle
You cannot write this stuff. Big Sam first competitive game in charge and he has to go back to Reebok Stadium to face Bolton. Bolton was strong at home under Big Sam. This will also be a first game for Sammy Lee. His first managerial post so we cant really say or predict how his team will line up or play. We hope that long ball tactics of last season will be extinct. Maybe a short passing game? Sammy Lee is a former Liverpool coaching staff. Gary Speed is in line to make his 600th career start against the club he spent six years with before joining Bolton.
A new look Newcastle side ravaged with injuries will arrive at the Reebok Stadium. Owen, Barton, Emre, Babayaro, Given and Duff is in the treatment room. Some of those with light knocks so it remains to be seen. Alan Smith is set to start though, most probably alongside Viduka. Expect a stronger defence this season from Newcastle with Big Sam in charge. The question to ponder is how will Newcastle play. Will it be like Bolton? They have Viduka as a target man to note. In our opinion newcastle has a team of players who are comfortable with the ball on the ground and (Milner, Zogbia, Martins, Solano) we expect Big Sam to change his style to suit the players at his disposal.
Predictions: We gonna say it again. The away team looked to be the stronger of the two. A draw is the most likely result. But we are are gonna stick out head out of the window and predict a Newcastle win. 2-1.
Aston Villa vs Liverpool
The team with the most draws last season against the team that struggles away from home.
Villa has been very quiet in the summer. Notable signings are Harewood and Reo Coker from West Ham. Coker is certain to start. We expect Villa to start with 3 strikers, barring any injuries of course, Carew, Agbonlahor and Young to try to breakdown Liverpool's stingy defence. Villa has keeper problems with Sorensen out and Carson cant play against his own team.
With a stat such 99 games fielding a changed side every game, one can never guess who starts for liverpool. This is especially this season with the depth of the squad increased. Liverpool has always started the season poorly and we kinda expect the same, based on pre season performances. Torres is expected to start with Benayoun more likely to figure rather than Babel. We are eagerly anticipating where Gerrard will play. Stick him out right would be a waste. Now they have benayoun and pennant to be thrown out right. And for the record, we dont think liverpool is ready to win the league this season.
Predictions: Another draw is looking likely. 1-1 at final whistle.
Derby vs Portsmouth
Honestly, a match we most probably wont be waiting in eagerness.
Derby qualified via the playoffs last season and this squad really really really look like they are going to struggle in the premiership. In fact, they are our prime candidates for relegation. Let us see, their two reinforcements, Claude Davis and Rob Earnshaw are from previously relegated teams, Sheff Utd and West Brom respectively. Wonderkid Giles Barnes will be out for some time. The weather forecast says it will be cloudy all season long in Derby.
Portsmouth has improved their playing staff during the summer. Dave Nugent and Utaka are two new strikers. Nugent impressed during pre season. Distin has been recruited to further reinforced their defence. They started very well last season and with this opening fixture, they will most probably start off on the right foot. Matt Taylor had a cracking last season and he will hope to continue that form.
Predictions: A win for Porstmouth. We dont see Derby scoring against the likes of Campbell, Distin and James. A comfortable win 2-0.
Middlesbrough vs Blackburn
Boro has always been unpredictable especially at home with notable victories over the likes of chelsea and manyoo in the past. They have not really strenghtenend the team much. Signings that we are looking forward to see are Sanli Tuncay (he is damn good in FM) and also former arsenal striker Aliadiere. Viduka is out so we expect a new look attack for Boro. Will it be effective remains to be see. This gonna be an important season for Southgate as he has reiterate that his youngsters is good enough for the premiership. Woodgate, Pogatetz and Huth are missing with injury so we expect Boro's defence to be patchy.
Blackburn did the double on Boro last season. They have reinforced their strikeforce with Paraguayan Santa Cruz. We expect him to start with Benny McCarthy, thier top scorer last season. With Gamst and Bentley in support, it is a strong attack. On paper, Hughes men looked the better side and they have no major injury worries. Savage and Ooijer will be back from horrific injuries at the end of last season so they should be up for this.
Predictions: We dont see Middlesbrough winning this one. A makeshift defence against a strong Blackburn attack looks to shift the advantage to Rovers. Boro will be happy with a draw. Rovers to win 2-0.
West Ham vs Manchester City
Honestly, these are the two middle table teams we are most excited to see. Its West Ham after Coker-Tevez Era against Thai-backed Sven's outfit. Both team have been busy during the summer. Well thats an understatement if u looked at how many Sven has recruited. West Ham will be without their new signing Parker for this one so expect Noble to start in the middle in his place. Bellamy would most likely be making his debut and a gut feeling says he's gonna excel at Upton park. Ljunberg is also set to begin his new adventure. A cast away from Arsenal, we still he still has much to offer. Boa Morte on the left with Ljungnerg down the right. Thats ability and experience much present. They just need to make sure they dont leak as much goals as last season. An unfortunate fact their defence has no new signings.
Man City oh Man City. Where do we start on this team. Sven is currently undertaking his revolution for the blue half of manchester. Recent signings Valeri Bojinov, Vedran Corluka and Elano will be waiting for their international clearance to play this weekend. Rolando Bianchi, Geovanni, Gelson Fernandes, Javi Garrido and Martin Petrov will hope to figure in the match. Man City will never look like last season thats for sure. At least playing staff-wise, results wise? Time will tell. After bore-ing us with the England national team, it will be intriguing to see how Sven sets out his team and the kind of football he plays. His track record with league football has been good to his credit but the premier league is a whole different ball game.
Predictions: very close to call. Any victory would most probably be for West Ham. Reason being that they have a more settled team at the moment. Man City is still right now a bunch of good players. Will they make a good team? We gonna play safe on this one and say an exciting 2-2 draw as the final score.
Sunderland vs Tottenham
The first kickoff of the season and Keano will pray that this will give a boost to his side because they are gonna need it against an impressive pre season Spurs. The big question is will Sunderland be good enough for the premiership. looking at their team list, they are really no notable quality in his team but then again we said that about Wigan and Reading. If Kieran Richardson and ageing Dwight Yorke are the biggest names in your squad, Sunderland is in for a rocky ride. Keano's team absoulutely crushed the Championship so this will really be a more true reflection of the team's ability. Look out for Carlos Edwards. He has a good world cup for TnT. All eyes will also be on Craig Gordon, the 9 million pounds keeper.
Tottenham is looking very impressive for this season. Darren Bent has arrived to add more firepower to an already strong front line. They have also strengthened where needed, in defence, with Bale and Kaboul. What they need more this season is a fit Ledley King. If he can remain injury-free, Tottenham will do well and maybe break into the top four. But.....He's out for this one yet again. One can never be sure which two Jol will select in his predictable 4-4-2. For our sake we would like to see Berbatov and Bent to start with Keane behind them. Ooooo...that would wet our taste buds indeed.
Predictions: No chance for Sunderland. Tottenham if play to thier potential should run away with this. An away win to start this weekend. 3-1 Spurs win.
Bolton vs Newcastle
You cannot write this stuff. Big Sam first competitive game in charge and he has to go back to Reebok Stadium to face Bolton. Bolton was strong at home under Big Sam. This will also be a first game for Sammy Lee. His first managerial post so we cant really say or predict how his team will line up or play. We hope that long ball tactics of last season will be extinct. Maybe a short passing game? Sammy Lee is a former Liverpool coaching staff. Gary Speed is in line to make his 600th career start against the club he spent six years with before joining Bolton.
A new look Newcastle side ravaged with injuries will arrive at the Reebok Stadium. Owen, Barton, Emre, Babayaro, Given and Duff is in the treatment room. Some of those with light knocks so it remains to be seen. Alan Smith is set to start though, most probably alongside Viduka. Expect a stronger defence this season from Newcastle with Big Sam in charge. The question to ponder is how will Newcastle play. Will it be like Bolton? They have Viduka as a target man to note. In our opinion newcastle has a team of players who are comfortable with the ball on the ground and (Milner, Zogbia, Martins, Solano) we expect Big Sam to change his style to suit the players at his disposal.
Predictions: We gonna say it again. The away team looked to be the stronger of the two. A draw is the most likely result. But we are are gonna stick out head out of the window and predict a Newcastle win. 2-1.
Aston Villa vs Liverpool
The team with the most draws last season against the team that struggles away from home.
Villa has been very quiet in the summer. Notable signings are Harewood and Reo Coker from West Ham. Coker is certain to start. We expect Villa to start with 3 strikers, barring any injuries of course, Carew, Agbonlahor and Young to try to breakdown Liverpool's stingy defence. Villa has keeper problems with Sorensen out and Carson cant play against his own team.
With a stat such 99 games fielding a changed side every game, one can never guess who starts for liverpool. This is especially this season with the depth of the squad increased. Liverpool has always started the season poorly and we kinda expect the same, based on pre season performances. Torres is expected to start with Benayoun more likely to figure rather than Babel. We are eagerly anticipating where Gerrard will play. Stick him out right would be a waste. Now they have benayoun and pennant to be thrown out right. And for the record, we dont think liverpool is ready to win the league this season.
Predictions: Another draw is looking likely. 1-1 at final whistle.
Derby vs Portsmouth
Honestly, a match we most probably wont be waiting in eagerness.
Derby qualified via the playoffs last season and this squad really really really look like they are going to struggle in the premiership. In fact, they are our prime candidates for relegation. Let us see, their two reinforcements, Claude Davis and Rob Earnshaw are from previously relegated teams, Sheff Utd and West Brom respectively. Wonderkid Giles Barnes will be out for some time. The weather forecast says it will be cloudy all season long in Derby.
Portsmouth has improved their playing staff during the summer. Dave Nugent and Utaka are two new strikers. Nugent impressed during pre season. Distin has been recruited to further reinforced their defence. They started very well last season and with this opening fixture, they will most probably start off on the right foot. Matt Taylor had a cracking last season and he will hope to continue that form.
Predictions: A win for Porstmouth. We dont see Derby scoring against the likes of Campbell, Distin and James. A comfortable win 2-0.
Fulham Defender Stuck
Fulham defender Moritz Volz found himself stuck in his toilet for about 40 minutes when he stopped by his loo before heading for Fulham's pre season friendly with Brighton. His door dah jammed when he tried to leave his loo.
Volz said: "I was trying everything but although the handle was moving, nothing was happening. I checked my pockets but my mobile wasn’t on me and it was then that I really started to panic. After a few minutes of continued attempts to budge the door I started shouting, because fortunately our cleaner was in. But she couldn't open the door from the other side either, so I asked her to get hold of our handyman to rescue me."
"But it was all happening at the same time as London was being hit by a monsoon so all the workmen were super busy because the building was being flooded. So I decided stay calm and look at the funny side as I sat in there stranded for the next 40 minutes. At least I had a few books to flick through. With the bad weather going on outside it felt like being in some sort of Hitchcock movie - the light was flickering, there were all these creaking noises, and from outside all I could hear was thunder and rain.
"My girlfriend was on holiday at the time too, so if the cleaner hadn’t been there I could have been stuck in that poxy room for days! Oh well, at least I was in the right place to be crapping myself. And I can’t let rip about poor plumbers on this one can I? Bloody carpenters! Can't even make a proper door!"
Soccer This Weekend (For Singaporean Viewers)
11 August 2007
Middlesbrough vs Blackburn Rovers Ch 21 9:53pm (Live)
West Ham vs Manchester City Ch 22 9:55pm (Live)
Sunderland vs Tottenham Ch 27 7:40pm (Live)
Bolton vs Newcastle Ch 27 9:55pm (Live)
Aston Villa vs Liverpool Ch 27 12:10am (Live)
Derby vs Portsmouth Ch 27 2:30am (Delayed)
Falkirk vs Celtic Ch 107 7:30pm (Live)
Toulouse vs Lyon Ch 108 11:10pm (Live)
12 August 2007
Everton vs Wigan Ch 27 12:00pm (Delayed)
Arsenal vs Fulham Ch 27 6:55pm (Live)
Chelsea vs Birmingham Ch 27 9:00pm (Live)
Man United vs Reading Ch 27 10:55pm (Live)
Aberdeen vs Hearts Ch 107 9:00pm (Live)
Metz vs Lille Ch 108 12:00am (Live)
Lens vs PSG Ch 108 3:00am (Live)
Middlesbrough vs Blackburn Rovers Ch 21 9:53pm (Live)
West Ham vs Manchester City Ch 22 9:55pm (Live)
Sunderland vs Tottenham Ch 27 7:40pm (Live)
Bolton vs Newcastle Ch 27 9:55pm (Live)
Aston Villa vs Liverpool Ch 27 12:10am (Live)
Derby vs Portsmouth Ch 27 2:30am (Delayed)
Falkirk vs Celtic Ch 107 7:30pm (Live)
Toulouse vs Lyon Ch 108 11:10pm (Live)
12 August 2007
Everton vs Wigan Ch 27 12:00pm (Delayed)
Arsenal vs Fulham Ch 27 6:55pm (Live)
Chelsea vs Birmingham Ch 27 9:00pm (Live)
Man United vs Reading Ch 27 10:55pm (Live)
Aberdeen vs Hearts Ch 107 9:00pm (Live)
Metz vs Lille Ch 108 12:00am (Live)
Lens vs PSG Ch 108 3:00am (Live)
Thursday, 9 August 2007
Quality Goals from our own S League 2006
Present S League Table
Team Pld Pts
SAF 20 46
Home 18 45
Tampines 18 41
Y Lions 21 32
Gombak 19 25
Woodlands 19 25
Albirex 18 21
Balestier 19 20
Liaoning 19 20
Sengkang 19 18
Geylang 19 17
Korean 19 9
First look at Zinedine Zidane's son
His name is Enzo Zidane, named after football legend Enzo Francescoli. He is currently 12 years old.
First trophy for Inter Milan
Inter Milan defeated Juventus 1-0 to win the Birra Moretti Trophy. A 2nd minute strike from Cesar Aparecido separated the two sides.
Birra Moretti, or simply Moretti, was an Italian brewing company, founded in Udine in 1859 by Luigi Moretti. In 1996 the company was acquired by Heineken Italia, that later sold the original Moretti's brewing plant in Udine to the new Castello beer company; so now Moretti is only a brand of Heineken Italia, brewed in its various different plants in Italy. It is particularly known outside Italy for its Moretti Doppio Malto and La Rossa, an amber lager made approximately in the German Bock style.
Since 1997, Birra Moretti sponsors a yearly football friendly tournament between 3 Italian football teams called by invitation (even though Inter has been the only team who participated in all editions) where the winner is entitled to the Birra Moretti Cup. The last competition consisted of the squads of Juventus, Inter and Napoli and took place in the San Paolo Stadium
Birra Moretti, or simply Moretti, was an Italian brewing company, founded in Udine in 1859 by Luigi Moretti. In 1996 the company was acquired by Heineken Italia, that later sold the original Moretti's brewing plant in Udine to the new Castello beer company; so now Moretti is only a brand of Heineken Italia, brewed in its various different plants in Italy. It is particularly known outside Italy for its Moretti Doppio Malto and La Rossa, an amber lager made approximately in the German Bock style.
Since 1997, Birra Moretti sponsors a yearly football friendly tournament between 3 Italian football teams called by invitation (even though Inter has been the only team who participated in all editions) where the winner is entitled to the Birra Moretti Cup. The last competition consisted of the squads of Juventus, Inter and Napoli and took place in the San Paolo Stadium
Craig Gordon, the 9 million pounds man
Here is a preview of Sunderland's new goalkeeper, Craig Gordon
Major Transfers Update
07/08/2007 J. Morrison Middlesbrough to West Bromwich
07/08/2007 C. Gordon Hearts to Sunderland
07/08/2007 José Enrique Villarreal to Newcastle
06/08/2007 Miki Roque Liverpool to Xerez Loan
06/08/2007 L. Baines Wigan Athletic to Everton
04/08/2007 Carney Sydney FC to Sheffield Utd.
04/08/2007 J. Beattie Everton to Sheffield Utd.
03/08/2007 S. Wright Sunderland to Stoke Loan
03/08/2007 C. Caçapa O. Lyon to Newcastle
03/08/2007 F. Queudrue Fulham to Birmingham
03/08/2007 C. Vela Arsenal to Osasuna Loan
03/08/2007 Jordi Mallorca to Racing Loan
03/08/2007 A. Smith Man Utd. to Newcastle
02/08/2007 L. Ridgewell Aston Villa to Birmingham
02/08/2007 Elano Shakhtar to Manchester City
02/08/2007 Alexandre Pato Internacional to Milan
02/08/2007 J. Garrido Real Sociedad to Manchester City
02/08/2007 V. Corluka Dinamo Zagreb to Manchester City
01/08/2007 G. Giannichedda Juventus to Livorno
01/08/2007 V. Bojinov Fiorentina to Manchester City
31/07/2007 A. Griffin Portsmouth to Derby
31/07/2007 J. Garrido Real Sociedad to Manchester City
07/08/2007 C. Gordon Hearts to Sunderland
07/08/2007 José Enrique Villarreal to Newcastle
06/08/2007 Miki Roque Liverpool to Xerez Loan
06/08/2007 L. Baines Wigan Athletic to Everton
04/08/2007 Carney Sydney FC to Sheffield Utd.
04/08/2007 J. Beattie Everton to Sheffield Utd.
03/08/2007 S. Wright Sunderland to Stoke Loan
03/08/2007 C. Caçapa O. Lyon to Newcastle
03/08/2007 F. Queudrue Fulham to Birmingham
03/08/2007 C. Vela Arsenal to Osasuna Loan
03/08/2007 Jordi Mallorca to Racing Loan
03/08/2007 A. Smith Man Utd. to Newcastle
02/08/2007 L. Ridgewell Aston Villa to Birmingham
02/08/2007 Elano Shakhtar to Manchester City
02/08/2007 Alexandre Pato Internacional to Milan
02/08/2007 J. Garrido Real Sociedad to Manchester City
02/08/2007 V. Corluka Dinamo Zagreb to Manchester City
01/08/2007 G. Giannichedda Juventus to Livorno
01/08/2007 V. Bojinov Fiorentina to Manchester City
31/07/2007 A. Griffin Portsmouth to Derby
31/07/2007 J. Garrido Real Sociedad to Manchester City
Big Clubs have a kid on thier radar
Chelsea and Manchester United will monitor Pier Larrauri's progress at Bayern Munich.
United were linked with the 13 year-old Peruvian, while Peru sources say Chelsea attempted to sign the midfielder before his family agreed to join Bayern.
Bayern supremo Uli Hoeness admitted Larrauri had not signed any contract: "The reports have been exaggerated. He's coming over for a year to play with the youth team. Nothing has been signed. We'll see at the end of the year if the relationship will continue."
With no contract, the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea is able to snap up the youngster.
United were linked with the 13 year-old Peruvian, while Peru sources say Chelsea attempted to sign the midfielder before his family agreed to join Bayern.
Bayern supremo Uli Hoeness admitted Larrauri had not signed any contract: "The reports have been exaggerated. He's coming over for a year to play with the youth team. Nothing has been signed. We'll see at the end of the year if the relationship will continue."
With no contract, the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea is able to snap up the youngster.
Still Transfer Talk...
Liverpool are set to swoop for Lens goalkeeper Charles Itandje. The Frenchman, who has also been linked with Manchester United, is expected to sign for Liverpool in the coming days.
West Ham United are set for talks with Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen.
Yakubu Aiyegbeni has slapped in a transfer request at Middlesbrough.
Aston Villa are set to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Scott Carson today.
Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra could be on the move this week. The Daily Mail says Portsmouth are ready to take advantage of Chelsea's reluctance to sell Diarra to title rivals Arsenal, by launching a bid of their own for the midfielder.
Sunderland have won the race for Roy O'Donovan. The Times says O'Donovan has joined the club from Cork City in a transfer that could eventually rise to £700,000.
Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce hasn't given up on signing Arsenal defender Johan Djourou.
Derby County are lining up a £1million bid for Rangers midfielder Brahim Hemdani.
Blackburn Rovers striker Francis Jeffers is being linked with Bryan Robson's Sheffield United.
Derby County are moving for Manchester City striker Darius Vassell.
Leicester City are set to offer £2 million for Tottenham midfielder Danny Murphy.
Genoa goalkeeper Alessio Scarpi is being linked with Manchester City.
Manchester City have joined the race for Barcelona striker Santi Ezquerro.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is stepping up his interest in Nacional Montevideo goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.
West Ham United refuse to give up on landing Reading fullback Nicky Shorey.
West Ham United are set for talks with Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen.
Yakubu Aiyegbeni has slapped in a transfer request at Middlesbrough.
Aston Villa are set to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Scott Carson today.
Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra could be on the move this week. The Daily Mail says Portsmouth are ready to take advantage of Chelsea's reluctance to sell Diarra to title rivals Arsenal, by launching a bid of their own for the midfielder.
Sunderland have won the race for Roy O'Donovan. The Times says O'Donovan has joined the club from Cork City in a transfer that could eventually rise to £700,000.
Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce hasn't given up on signing Arsenal defender Johan Djourou.
Derby County are lining up a £1million bid for Rangers midfielder Brahim Hemdani.
Blackburn Rovers striker Francis Jeffers is being linked with Bryan Robson's Sheffield United.
Derby County are moving for Manchester City striker Darius Vassell.
Leicester City are set to offer £2 million for Tottenham midfielder Danny Murphy.
Genoa goalkeeper Alessio Scarpi is being linked with Manchester City.
Manchester City have joined the race for Barcelona striker Santi Ezquerro.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is stepping up his interest in Nacional Montevideo goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.
West Ham United refuse to give up on landing Reading fullback Nicky Shorey.
F365 : How the Big Four will line up?
LIVERPOOL
To be restored as champions of England after an intolerable 18-year wait, Liverpool must improve upon last season's goalscoring return by approximately a third. That requirement has been reflected in Rafa Benitez's four major summer purchases, each of whom, to varying degrees, can be described as an attacker.
Yet while the squad has been transformed, the playing formation may remain the same. Benitez's reported remark to Ryan Babel, one of the four acquisitions, that he would "be in a group of seven players contesting four positions" indicates that, true to his cautious nature, the Spaniard will retain his preferred 4-4-2 formation.
This though, is the manager who tinkered with his line-up for 99 successive matches, so pre-guessing his intentions is a task that only the foolish would consider. Oh well.....
ARSENAL
Befitting their perceived vulnerability, Arsenal enter the 2007/08 campaign with the least settled line-up of any member of the Big Four.
Although the tried-and-successful 4-4-2 will be the formation of general use, each component of the team is under revision and only six players - Kolo Toure, William Gallas, Gael Clichy, Cesc Fabregas, Gilberto Silva and Robin Van Persie - will begin the new season fully confident of selection.
The uncertainty begins at the very back. As Arsenal signed Lukasz Fabianski in late May, it can be assumed that the Gunners were eyeing the Polish goalkeeper as a direct replacement in case Jens Lehmann opted to depart. After prolonged consideration, and to general surprise, Lehmann signed a one-year extension and will enter the season as the club's number one. Nonetheless, after a palpable dip in form last term, his position is in genuine jeopardy.
The situation is even more complicated at.....
Read the full article here
To be restored as champions of England after an intolerable 18-year wait, Liverpool must improve upon last season's goalscoring return by approximately a third. That requirement has been reflected in Rafa Benitez's four major summer purchases, each of whom, to varying degrees, can be described as an attacker.
Yet while the squad has been transformed, the playing formation may remain the same. Benitez's reported remark to Ryan Babel, one of the four acquisitions, that he would "be in a group of seven players contesting four positions" indicates that, true to his cautious nature, the Spaniard will retain his preferred 4-4-2 formation.
This though, is the manager who tinkered with his line-up for 99 successive matches, so pre-guessing his intentions is a task that only the foolish would consider. Oh well.....
ARSENAL
Befitting their perceived vulnerability, Arsenal enter the 2007/08 campaign with the least settled line-up of any member of the Big Four.
Although the tried-and-successful 4-4-2 will be the formation of general use, each component of the team is under revision and only six players - Kolo Toure, William Gallas, Gael Clichy, Cesc Fabregas, Gilberto Silva and Robin Van Persie - will begin the new season fully confident of selection.
The uncertainty begins at the very back. As Arsenal signed Lukasz Fabianski in late May, it can be assumed that the Gunners were eyeing the Polish goalkeeper as a direct replacement in case Jens Lehmann opted to depart. After prolonged consideration, and to general surprise, Lehmann signed a one-year extension and will enter the season as the club's number one. Nonetheless, after a palpable dip in form last term, his position is in genuine jeopardy.
The situation is even more complicated at.....
Read the full article here
F365 : How the Big Four will line up?
MANYOO
Nobody outside the inner sanctum of the manager's office at Old Trafford can be sure of how Sir Alex Ferguson intends to deploy his troops during the forthcoming campaign. It is a puzzlement that Sir Alex will relish - the crux of this summer's strategy was a desire to add variety to his vast squad. If his rivals are unable to forecast his intentions then all the better. Sir's only problem will be how to accommodate his mammoth squad - the official club site identifies a total of 39 players comprising the first-team party.
Of the four major summer signings, only Owen Hargreaves and Carlos Tevez (pending resolution of his interminable transfer) offer short-term relevancy. Nani and Anderson will feature infrequently, with a paternal Ferguson introducing the two youngsters to the hurly-burly Premiership on a gradual basis ahead of their succession to the roles occupied by Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.
Behind an attacking trio of Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Tevez that will have the Old Trafford faithful salivating,.....
CHELSKI
Their fingers burnt once too often, Fleet Street have stopped listening to Jose Mourinho's public pronouncements. On July 16, The Times assured readers that Chelski would employ a 4-2-3-1 formation this season while, on the same day, The Independent prophesised a 4-1-4-1 and The Guardian proposed a 4 3-3. What made the contradiction all the more ridiculous was its timing; just a day earlier, Mourinho himself had revealed an altogether different blueprint for 2007/08.
"I want better results and to be more entertaining. I hope not to play with the diamond unless I need to do it for some reason," the Chelski boss announced. "I have so many good midfield players I can do it, but basically we want to play with wingers. We will work our 4-3-3 with wingers, of course, and we will change our 4-4-2 with a diamond to a 4-4-2 with wingers."
If - and it remains a considerable 'if' based on his previous dealings with honesty - Mourinho is true to his word.....
Read the full article here
Nobody outside the inner sanctum of the manager's office at Old Trafford can be sure of how Sir Alex Ferguson intends to deploy his troops during the forthcoming campaign. It is a puzzlement that Sir Alex will relish - the crux of this summer's strategy was a desire to add variety to his vast squad. If his rivals are unable to forecast his intentions then all the better. Sir's only problem will be how to accommodate his mammoth squad - the official club site identifies a total of 39 players comprising the first-team party.
Of the four major summer signings, only Owen Hargreaves and Carlos Tevez (pending resolution of his interminable transfer) offer short-term relevancy. Nani and Anderson will feature infrequently, with a paternal Ferguson introducing the two youngsters to the hurly-burly Premiership on a gradual basis ahead of their succession to the roles occupied by Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.
Behind an attacking trio of Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Tevez that will have the Old Trafford faithful salivating,.....
CHELSKI
Their fingers burnt once too often, Fleet Street have stopped listening to Jose Mourinho's public pronouncements. On July 16, The Times assured readers that Chelski would employ a 4-2-3-1 formation this season while, on the same day, The Independent prophesised a 4-1-4-1 and The Guardian proposed a 4 3-3. What made the contradiction all the more ridiculous was its timing; just a day earlier, Mourinho himself had revealed an altogether different blueprint for 2007/08.
"I want better results and to be more entertaining. I hope not to play with the diamond unless I need to do it for some reason," the Chelski boss announced. "I have so many good midfield players I can do it, but basically we want to play with wingers. We will work our 4-3-3 with wingers, of course, and we will change our 4-4-2 with a diamond to a 4-4-2 with wingers."
If - and it remains a considerable 'if' based on his previous dealings with honesty - Mourinho is true to his word.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Middlesbrough
Odds on championship: 1,750-1. Odds on relegation: 9-2
Manager: Gareth Southgate (since June 2006). Odds on first out the job: 12-1
Last season: 12th, 46 points; FA Cup sixth round; Carling Cup first round
In: Luke Young (Charlton, £2.5m); Jeremie Aliadiere (Arsenal, £2m); Tuncay Sanli (Fenerbahce, free)
Out: Mark Viduka (Newcastle, free); Abel Xavier (LA Galaxy, free); Stuart Parnaby (Birmingham, free); Danny Graham (Carlisle, free).
The principal reason not to back Gareth Southgate to be first manager sacked is Steve Gibson. The Boro chairman tolerated Bryan Robson long past the point that most chairmen would, then stood by Steve McClaren, too. He went out on a limb over Southgate, regarding his lack of coaching badges, so as well as damaging his own reputation for loyalty Gibson would be acknowledging a serious mistake if he axed his amiable appointee.
Southgate's first year in charge was not without its highlights and drama. Boro played one more match in the FA Cup than the eventual winners, Chelsea did, as replays were required in every round of a run to the quarter-finals. And the tie that ended their challenge.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Gareth Southgate (since June 2006). Odds on first out the job: 12-1
Last season: 12th, 46 points; FA Cup sixth round; Carling Cup first round
In: Luke Young (Charlton, £2.5m); Jeremie Aliadiere (Arsenal, £2m); Tuncay Sanli (Fenerbahce, free)
Out: Mark Viduka (Newcastle, free); Abel Xavier (LA Galaxy, free); Stuart Parnaby (Birmingham, free); Danny Graham (Carlisle, free).
The principal reason not to back Gareth Southgate to be first manager sacked is Steve Gibson. The Boro chairman tolerated Bryan Robson long past the point that most chairmen would, then stood by Steve McClaren, too. He went out on a limb over Southgate, regarding his lack of coaching badges, so as well as damaging his own reputation for loyalty Gibson would be acknowledging a serious mistake if he axed his amiable appointee.
Southgate's first year in charge was not without its highlights and drama. Boro played one more match in the FA Cup than the eventual winners, Chelsea did, as replays were required in every round of a run to the quarter-finals. And the tie that ended their challenge.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Newcastle United
Odds on championship: 250-1. Odds on relegation: 28-1
Manager: Sam Allardyce (since June 2007). Odds on first out the job: 33-1
Last season: 13th, 43 points; UEFA Cup last 16; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup fifth round
In: Sam Allardyce; Mark Viduka (Middlesbrough, free); Joey Barton (Man City, £5.8m); David Rozenhal (Paris Saint-Germain, £2.9m); Geremi (Chelsea, free)
Out: Glenn Roeder; Scott Parker (West Ham, £7m); Titus Bramble, Antoine Sibierski (both Wigan, free); Lee Clark, Pavel Srnicek, Craig Moore, Olivier Bernard (all released)
It must be pretty depressing to write a lonely hearts ad and receive no replies.
Ambitious manager, early fifties (CHK), own hair, love handles, no sense of humour, moany voice, seeks club with top-four pedigree for mutual trophy-seeking and paranoia.
But then one day, after years of making do with a homely club that had scrubbed up surprisingly well, a reply to that advert arrived. And Newcastle have been in the top four this decade, at least. (So have Leeds, but that's another story.)
It is a sign of Allardyce's standing as a coach that many have reacted to his departure from Bolton by tipping the side that finished seventh in May for relegation. It is less certain what he will manage to do at what is not so much the Theatre of Dreams as.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Sam Allardyce (since June 2007). Odds on first out the job: 33-1
Last season: 13th, 43 points; UEFA Cup last 16; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup fifth round
In: Sam Allardyce; Mark Viduka (Middlesbrough, free); Joey Barton (Man City, £5.8m); David Rozenhal (Paris Saint-Germain, £2.9m); Geremi (Chelsea, free)
Out: Glenn Roeder; Scott Parker (West Ham, £7m); Titus Bramble, Antoine Sibierski (both Wigan, free); Lee Clark, Pavel Srnicek, Craig Moore, Olivier Bernard (all released)
It must be pretty depressing to write a lonely hearts ad and receive no replies.
Ambitious manager, early fifties (CHK), own hair, love handles, no sense of humour, moany voice, seeks club with top-four pedigree for mutual trophy-seeking and paranoia.
But then one day, after years of making do with a homely club that had scrubbed up surprisingly well, a reply to that advert arrived. And Newcastle have been in the top four this decade, at least. (So have Leeds, but that's another story.)
It is a sign of Allardyce's standing as a coach that many have reacted to his departure from Bolton by tipping the side that finished seventh in May for relegation. It is less certain what he will manage to do at what is not so much the Theatre of Dreams as.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Manchester City
Odds on championship: 1,750-1. Odds on relegation: 9-2
Manager: Sven-Goran Eriksson (since July). Odds on first out the job: 25-1
Last season: 14th, 42 points; FA Cup sixth round; Carling Cup second round
In: Sven-Goran Eriksson; Roland Bianchi (Reggina, £8.8m); Geovanni (Cruzeiro, free); Martin Petrov (Atletico Madrid, £4.7m); Gelson Fernandes (Sion, £4.2m); Elano (Shakhtar Donetsk, £8m); Javier Garrido (Real Sociedad, £1.5m); Vedran Corluka (Dinamo Zagreb, undisc.).
Out: Stuart Pearce; Joey Barton (Newcastle, £5.8m); Sylvain Distin (Portsmouth, free); Stephen Jordan (Burnley, free); Nicky Weaver (Charlton, free); Trevor Sinclair, Hatem Trabelsi (both released)
There were any number of teams who performed so badly that they could not have complained had they been relegated in May. But the most extraordinary record in football last season was Manchester City failing to score a goal at home after New Year's Day and still staying up. A letter-writer to When Saturday Comes magazine said that as far as City were concerned, the term "deep-lying striker" referred to the CVs of Bernardo Corradi and Giorgios Samaras.
Unfortunately, another suspect CV has landed in the Eastlands in-tray - and it belongs to the club's new owner. Thaksin Shinawatra's lawyers point out that nothing has been proved, but in the event that it was, what next? And the accusations of human-rights abuses are.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Sven-Goran Eriksson (since July). Odds on first out the job: 25-1
Last season: 14th, 42 points; FA Cup sixth round; Carling Cup second round
In: Sven-Goran Eriksson; Roland Bianchi (Reggina, £8.8m); Geovanni (Cruzeiro, free); Martin Petrov (Atletico Madrid, £4.7m); Gelson Fernandes (Sion, £4.2m); Elano (Shakhtar Donetsk, £8m); Javier Garrido (Real Sociedad, £1.5m); Vedran Corluka (Dinamo Zagreb, undisc.).
Out: Stuart Pearce; Joey Barton (Newcastle, £5.8m); Sylvain Distin (Portsmouth, free); Stephen Jordan (Burnley, free); Nicky Weaver (Charlton, free); Trevor Sinclair, Hatem Trabelsi (both released)
There were any number of teams who performed so badly that they could not have complained had they been relegated in May. But the most extraordinary record in football last season was Manchester City failing to score a goal at home after New Year's Day and still staying up. A letter-writer to When Saturday Comes magazine said that as far as City were concerned, the term "deep-lying striker" referred to the CVs of Bernardo Corradi and Giorgios Samaras.
Unfortunately, another suspect CV has landed in the Eastlands in-tray - and it belongs to the club's new owner. Thaksin Shinawatra's lawyers point out that nothing has been proved, but in the event that it was, what next? And the accusations of human-rights abuses are.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Chelsea
Odds on championship: 6-4. Odds on relegation: 2,500-1
Manager: Jose Mourinho (since June 2004). Odds on first out the job: 20-1
Last season: 2nd, 83 points; Champions League semi-finalists; FA Cup winners; Carling Cup winners
In: Florent Malouda (Lyon, £13.5m); Alex (PSV, free); Steve Sidwell (Reading, free); Tal Ben Haim (Bolton, free); Claudio Pizarro (Bayern Munich, free)
Out: Geremi (Newcastle, free); Khalid Boulahrouz (Sevilla, loan); Michael Mancienne, Ben Sahar (both QPR, loan); Yves Makaba-Makalamby (Hibs, undisc); Jimmy Smith (Norwich, loan)
"Wednesday, Man United; Thursday, Chelsea," I kept thinking when planning these previews. Because Chelsea are champions and champions go last. The notion passed the second I thought of it but it is still odd to think that the double champions plus Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack turned out to be a losing combination.
It's odd, too, to think that Jose Mourinho survived the failure to retain the Premiership or, just as important, win the Champions League. A year ago it seemed that Roman had set his heart on the big.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Jose Mourinho (since June 2004). Odds on first out the job: 20-1
Last season: 2nd, 83 points; Champions League semi-finalists; FA Cup winners; Carling Cup winners
In: Florent Malouda (Lyon, £13.5m); Alex (PSV, free); Steve Sidwell (Reading, free); Tal Ben Haim (Bolton, free); Claudio Pizarro (Bayern Munich, free)
Out: Geremi (Newcastle, free); Khalid Boulahrouz (Sevilla, loan); Michael Mancienne, Ben Sahar (both QPR, loan); Yves Makaba-Makalamby (Hibs, undisc); Jimmy Smith (Norwich, loan)
"Wednesday, Man United; Thursday, Chelsea," I kept thinking when planning these previews. Because Chelsea are champions and champions go last. The notion passed the second I thought of it but it is still odd to think that the double champions plus Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack turned out to be a losing combination.
It's odd, too, to think that Jose Mourinho survived the failure to retain the Premiership or, just as important, win the Champions League. A year ago it seemed that Roman had set his heart on the big.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Liverpool
Odds on championship: 9-2. Odds on relegation: 1,500-1
Manager: Rafael Benitez (since 2004 ). Odds on first out the job: 25-1
Last season: 3rd; Champions League finalists; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup fifth round
In: Andriy Voronin (Bayer Leverkusen, free); Fernando Torres (Atletico Madrid, £26.5m); Yossi Benayoun (West Ham, £5m); Ryan Babel (Ajax, £11.5m); Lucas Leiva (Gremio, £6m); Nikolay Mihaylov (Levski Sofia, undisc); Sebastian Leto (Lanus, £1.8m)
Out: Craig Bellamy(West Ham, £7.5m); Mark Gonzalez (Real Betis, £4.2m); Florent Sinama Pongolle (Recreativo Huelva, £2.7m); Luis Garcia (Atletico Madrid, undisc); Boudewijn Zenden (Marseille, free); Djibril Cisse (Marseille, £6m); Jerzy Dudek (Real Madrid, free); Robbie Fowler (Cardiff, free); Danny O'Donnell(Crewe, £100,000); Danny Guthrie (Bolton, loan); Adam Hammill (Southampton, loan); Godwin Antwi (Hartlepool, loan); Paul Anderson (Swansea, loan); Lee Peltier (Yeovil, loan)
This is still Anfield, but the clock is ticking on whether the old ground will see another league title win before it is demolished. Rafa Benitez starts the season with the confidence of the crowd and of the board, but the clock is also ticking on whether he is the man to bring that Premier League trophy to the club for the first time.
The plans of Tom Gillett and George Hicks for their franchise mean that on the one hand Benitez has the money he has wanted, on the other hand he now is shorn of excuses. Liverpool may not win the title but they have to challenge for it if Benitez is to carry on commanding widespread confidence. If Liverpool fail.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Rafael Benitez (since 2004 ). Odds on first out the job: 25-1
Last season: 3rd; Champions League finalists; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup fifth round
In: Andriy Voronin (Bayer Leverkusen, free); Fernando Torres (Atletico Madrid, £26.5m); Yossi Benayoun (West Ham, £5m); Ryan Babel (Ajax, £11.5m); Lucas Leiva (Gremio, £6m); Nikolay Mihaylov (Levski Sofia, undisc); Sebastian Leto (Lanus, £1.8m)
Out: Craig Bellamy(West Ham, £7.5m); Mark Gonzalez (Real Betis, £4.2m); Florent Sinama Pongolle (Recreativo Huelva, £2.7m); Luis Garcia (Atletico Madrid, undisc); Boudewijn Zenden (Marseille, free); Djibril Cisse (Marseille, £6m); Jerzy Dudek (Real Madrid, free); Robbie Fowler (Cardiff, free); Danny O'Donnell(Crewe, £100,000); Danny Guthrie (Bolton, loan); Adam Hammill (Southampton, loan); Godwin Antwi (Hartlepool, loan); Paul Anderson (Swansea, loan); Lee Peltier (Yeovil, loan)
This is still Anfield, but the clock is ticking on whether the old ground will see another league title win before it is demolished. Rafa Benitez starts the season with the confidence of the crowd and of the board, but the clock is also ticking on whether he is the man to bring that Premier League trophy to the club for the first time.
The plans of Tom Gillett and George Hicks for their franchise mean that on the one hand Benitez has the money he has wanted, on the other hand he now is shorn of excuses. Liverpool may not win the title but they have to challenge for it if Benitez is to carry on commanding widespread confidence. If Liverpool fail.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Arsenal
Odds on championship: 12-1. Odds on relegation: 500-1
Manager: Arsene Wenger (since 1996). Odds on first out the job: 20-1
Last season: 4th, 68 points; Champions League last 16; FA Cup fifth round; Carling Cup runners-up
In: Eduardo da Silva (Dinamo Zagreb, £8m); Bacary Sagna (Auxerre, free); Lukasz Fabianski (Legia Warsaw, £2m); Harvard Nordveit (FK Haugesund, £2m); Gilles Sunu (Chateauroux, nominal); Kyle Bartley (Bolton, nominal)
Out: Thierry Henry (Barcelona, £16.1m); David Dein (FC Sulking, undisc); Jose Antonio Reyes (Atletico Madrid, £8m, from loan to Real Madrid); Freddie Ljungberg (West Ham, £3m); Jeremie Aliadiere (Middlesbrough, £2m); Arturo Lupoli (Fiorentina, free); Mart Poom (Watford, free); Matthew Connolly (Colchester, loan); Vito Mannone (Gretna, free)
Fourth place is not what Arsenal have been about under Arsene Wenger. But can they achieve any more at such a turbulent time? The Gunners have been in transition for a couple of years already and now start a season without Thierry Henry or David Dein.
The former vice-chairman is still a power, of course, as a shareholder and a mover and shaker. But the Frenchman will no longer be stirring the hearts of the fans or putting the wind up Premier League defences. Even if Wenger has bought wisely in the bid to replace him, it would be no failure on the part of Eduardo da Silva if he.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Arsene Wenger (since 1996). Odds on first out the job: 20-1
Last season: 4th, 68 points; Champions League last 16; FA Cup fifth round; Carling Cup runners-up
In: Eduardo da Silva (Dinamo Zagreb, £8m); Bacary Sagna (Auxerre, free); Lukasz Fabianski (Legia Warsaw, £2m); Harvard Nordveit (FK Haugesund, £2m); Gilles Sunu (Chateauroux, nominal); Kyle Bartley (Bolton, nominal)
Out: Thierry Henry (Barcelona, £16.1m); David Dein (FC Sulking, undisc); Jose Antonio Reyes (Atletico Madrid, £8m, from loan to Real Madrid); Freddie Ljungberg (West Ham, £3m); Jeremie Aliadiere (Middlesbrough, £2m); Arturo Lupoli (Fiorentina, free); Mart Poom (Watford, free); Matthew Connolly (Colchester, loan); Vito Mannone (Gretna, free)
Fourth place is not what Arsenal have been about under Arsene Wenger. But can they achieve any more at such a turbulent time? The Gunners have been in transition for a couple of years already and now start a season without Thierry Henry or David Dein.
The former vice-chairman is still a power, of course, as a shareholder and a mover and shaker. But the Frenchman will no longer be stirring the hearts of the fans or putting the wind up Premier League defences. Even if Wenger has bought wisely in the bid to replace him, it would be no failure on the part of Eduardo da Silva if he.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Everton
Odds on championship: 750-1. Odds on relegation: 18-1
Manager: David Moyes (since March 2002). Odds on first out the job: 25-1
Last season: 6th, 58 points; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup fourth round
In: Phil Jagielka (Sheff Utd, £4m); Steven Pienaar (Borussia Dortmund, loan); Leighton Baines (Wigan, £5m); Lucas Jutkiewicz (Swindon, undisc);
Out: James Beattie (Sheff Utd; £4m); Richard Wright (West Ham, free ); Gary Naysmith (Sheff Utd, £1m); Scott Phelan (Bradford, free); Alessandro Pistone, Alan Kearney (released);
The Moyes rollercoaster has started to steady of late. The sequence of full seasons has run 7th-17th-4th-11th-6th. Perhaps, just possibly, no real trough will follow the latest peak and Everton will once again be there or thereabouts in the battle for Europe.
The Blues should have three aims this season, it seems to me. First, to treat the question of increasing their capacity, whether that means rebuilding Goodison, moving to Kirkby or finding another site in the city, as separate from issues surrounding the team otherwise. Second, to requalify for Europe. Third,.....
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Manager: David Moyes (since March 2002). Odds on first out the job: 25-1
Last season: 6th, 58 points; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup fourth round
In: Phil Jagielka (Sheff Utd, £4m); Steven Pienaar (Borussia Dortmund, loan); Leighton Baines (Wigan, £5m); Lucas Jutkiewicz (Swindon, undisc);
Out: James Beattie (Sheff Utd; £4m); Richard Wright (West Ham, free ); Gary Naysmith (Sheff Utd, £1m); Scott Phelan (Bradford, free); Alessandro Pistone, Alan Kearney (released);
The Moyes rollercoaster has started to steady of late. The sequence of full seasons has run 7th-17th-4th-11th-6th. Perhaps, just possibly, no real trough will follow the latest peak and Everton will once again be there or thereabouts in the battle for Europe.
The Blues should have three aims this season, it seems to me. First, to treat the question of increasing their capacity, whether that means rebuilding Goodison, moving to Kirkby or finding another site in the city, as separate from issues surrounding the team otherwise. Second, to requalify for Europe. Third,.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Tottenham Hotspurs
Odds on championship: 100-1. Odds on relegation: 125-1
Manager: Martin Jol (since ). Odds on first out the job: 33-1
Last season: 5th, 60 points; UEFA Cup quarter-finals; FA Cup quarter-finals; Carling Cup semi-finals
In: Darren Bent (Charlton, £16.5m); Gareth Bale (Southampton, £5m); Younes Kaboul (Auxerre, £8m); Kevin-Prince Boateng (Hertha Berlin, £5m); Adel Taarabt (Lens, £2.5m); Yuri Berchiche (Athletic Bilbao, nominal); Danny Rose (Leeds, nominal)
Out: Hossam Ghaly (Who knows where but not Birmingham, probably); Charlie Lee (Peterborough, free); Mark Yeates (Colchester, nominal); Robert Burch (Sheffield Wednesday, free); Emil Hallfredsson (Lyn Oslo, undisclosed)
It is hard to know which potentially pointless debate has taken up more space this summer: Liverpool's umpteenth rendition of "this year will be our year", Sunderland to look like a proper top-flight team or Spurs to break into the top four.
Of the three, Martin Jol's side have come closer to their target than the others in recent years. Sickeningly close, in fact, two seasons ago. Last term they took the long way round to arrive back in fifth place, enjoying three tantalising cup runs along the way (compared to just two cup games in total in 2005-06). But they did not make fourth and never looked like doing so.
This summer Spurs have spent as big as anyone in terms of cash laid out, even if others.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Martin Jol (since ). Odds on first out the job: 33-1
Last season: 5th, 60 points; UEFA Cup quarter-finals; FA Cup quarter-finals; Carling Cup semi-finals
In: Darren Bent (Charlton, £16.5m); Gareth Bale (Southampton, £5m); Younes Kaboul (Auxerre, £8m); Kevin-Prince Boateng (Hertha Berlin, £5m); Adel Taarabt (Lens, £2.5m); Yuri Berchiche (Athletic Bilbao, nominal); Danny Rose (Leeds, nominal)
Out: Hossam Ghaly (Who knows where but not Birmingham, probably); Charlie Lee (Peterborough, free); Mark Yeates (Colchester, nominal); Robert Burch (Sheffield Wednesday, free); Emil Hallfredsson (Lyn Oslo, undisclosed)
It is hard to know which potentially pointless debate has taken up more space this summer: Liverpool's umpteenth rendition of "this year will be our year", Sunderland to look like a proper top-flight team or Spurs to break into the top four.
Of the three, Martin Jol's side have come closer to their target than the others in recent years. Sickeningly close, in fact, two seasons ago. Last term they took the long way round to arrive back in fifth place, enjoying three tantalising cup runs along the way (compared to just two cup games in total in 2005-06). But they did not make fourth and never looked like doing so.
This summer Spurs have spent as big as anyone in terms of cash laid out, even if others.....
Read the full article here
F365 Season Preview : Bolton Wanderers
Odds on championship: 1,500-1. Odds on relegation: 6-1
Manager: Sammy Lee (since May). Odds on first out the job: 7-1
Last season: 7th, 56 points; FA Cup fourth round; Carling Cup fourth round
In: Gavin McCann (Aston Villa, £1m); Jlloyd Samuel (Aston Villa, free); Blerim Dzemaili (FC Zurich, free); Zoltan Harsanyi (FC Senec, undisc); Gerald Cid (Bordeaux, free); Heidar Helguson (Fulham, undisc); Adam Bogdan (Vasas, free); Danny Guthrie (Liverpool, loan); Christian Wilhelmsson (Nantes, loan); Daniel Braaten (Rosenborg, £500,000); Mikel Alonso (Real Sociedad, loan);
Out: Tal Ben Haim (Chelsea, free); Quinton Fortune, Henrik Pedersen, David Thompson (all released); Chris Howarth (Carlisle, free);
A team that after a number of years in the top flight qualified for Europe (again) are being widely considered for relegation, simply because they have lost their manager and replaced him with his assistant.
That Sammy Lee is a well qualified former international who enjoyed more club success than his previous boss has generally been overlooked because of the scale of Sam Allardyce's achievement in turning Bolton into top-flight regulars for the first time in a couple of generations. A year ago I was writing that.....
Read the full article here
Manager: Sammy Lee (since May). Odds on first out the job: 7-1
Last season: 7th, 56 points; FA Cup fourth round; Carling Cup fourth round
In: Gavin McCann (Aston Villa, £1m); Jlloyd Samuel (Aston Villa, free); Blerim Dzemaili (FC Zurich, free); Zoltan Harsanyi (FC Senec, undisc); Gerald Cid (Bordeaux, free); Heidar Helguson (Fulham, undisc); Adam Bogdan (Vasas, free); Danny Guthrie (Liverpool, loan); Christian Wilhelmsson (Nantes, loan); Daniel Braaten (Rosenborg, £500,000); Mikel Alonso (Real Sociedad, loan);
Out: Tal Ben Haim (Chelsea, free); Quinton Fortune, Henrik Pedersen, David Thompson (all released); Chris Howarth (Carlisle, free);
A team that after a number of years in the top flight qualified for Europe (again) are being widely considered for relegation, simply because they have lost their manager and replaced him with his assistant.
That Sammy Lee is a well qualified former international who enjoyed more club success than his previous boss has generally been overlooked because of the scale of Sam Allardyce's achievement in turning Bolton into top-flight regulars for the first time in a couple of generations. A year ago I was writing that.....
Read the full article here
Thursday, 2 August 2007
For Singaporean Viewers of English Premier League
StarHub today announced that it will add two more channels - Goal TV 1[1] (Channel 107) and Goal TV 2 (Channel 108) to its cable TV Sports Group package from 11 August 2007. Together with its new dedicated Barclays Premier League channel – Football Channel (Channel 27), these additions bring the number of channels available in the Sports Group from four to seven.
Other footnotes from the press release
- StarHub will air 370 matches this season, and will offer viewers up to 10 Premier League matches weekly, whereby up to eight of these matches will be aired ‘live. Most of the matches will be televised on Football Channel, with the simulcast matches to be aired on StarHub’s other self-packaged sports channels, SuperSports (Channel 22) and SuperSports Plus (Channel 21). Up to three ‘live’ Premier League matches will be aired concurrently on Saturday evenings
- Goal TV is the leading pan-Asian 24-hour channel dedicated to all football fans, and aggregates the best football content onto a TV platform, focusing on football clubs with a large Asian following. Goal TV 1 consists of exclusive programming related to Manchester United TV and Barcelona, plus selected ‘live’ and delayed coverage of the Scottish Premier League. Goal TV 2 consists of exclusive programming related to Liverpooland Chelsea TV, plus selected ‘live’ and delayed coverage of the Dutch League and French League.
For the full press release go here...
Other footnotes from the press release
- StarHub will air 370 matches this season, and will offer viewers up to 10 Premier League matches weekly, whereby up to eight of these matches will be aired ‘live. Most of the matches will be televised on Football Channel, with the simulcast matches to be aired on StarHub’s other self-packaged sports channels, SuperSports (Channel 22) and SuperSports Plus (Channel 21). Up to three ‘live’ Premier League matches will be aired concurrently on Saturday evenings
- Goal TV is the leading pan-Asian 24-hour channel dedicated to all football fans, and aggregates the best football content onto a TV platform, focusing on football clubs with a large Asian following. Goal TV 1 consists of exclusive programming related to Manchester United TV and Barcelona, plus selected ‘live’ and delayed coverage of the Scottish Premier League. Goal TV 2 consists of exclusive programming related to Liverpooland Chelsea TV, plus selected ‘live’ and delayed coverage of the Dutch League and French League.
For the full press release go here...
Wednesday, 1 August 2007
F365 Season Preview : The Newbies
Derby
Odds on championship: 7,500-1.
Odds on relegation: 1-2
Manager: Billy Davies (since June 2006).
Odds on first out the job: 8-1
Last season: Championship third, 84 points, play-off winners; FA Cup fifth round; Carling Cup second round
In: Robert Earnshaw (Norwich, £3.5m), Claude Davis (Sheff Utd, £3m), Tyrone Mears (West Ham, £1m), Andy Todd (Blackburn, free); Ben Hinchcliffe (Preston, undisc)
Out: Paul Peschisolido (Luton, free), Lee Grant (Sheff Wed, free), Ryan Smith (Millwall, £150,000), Paul Boertien, Steven Cann, Morten Bisgaard, Lionel Ainsworth, Seth Johnson (all released)
When Derby reached the play-offs in May, it was noted at length that Billy Davies had been in the semis the year before with Preston and was going to use that experience to help him negotiate them successfully this time around. What was reported an awful lot less was how Derby, not Davies, had got on in 2005-06.
Under the management of Phil Brown, the Rams finished 20th. Since relegation in 2002, their finishes have been 18th, 20th, fourth, 20th - then third, and up. Davies may be only 8-1 to be first to lose his job, but in a sane world the directors owe him...
Read the full article....http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,12994_2627456,00.html
Birmingham
Odds on championship: 5,000-1.
Odds on relegation: Evens
Manager: Steve Bruce (since December 2001).
Odds on first out the job: 5-1
Last season: Championship second, 86 points; FA Cup fourth round; Carling Cup fourth round
In: Stuart Parnaby (Middlesbrough, free); Garry O'Connor (Lokomotiv Moscow, £2.6m); Hossam Ghaly (Birmingham, £3m); Olivier Kapo (Juventus, £3m); Daniel De Ridder (Celta Vigo, free)
Out: Julian Gray (Coventry, free); Stephen Clemence (Leicester, £1m); DJ Campbell (Leicester, £2.1m); Bruno N'Gotty (Leicester, free); Rafael Schmitz (Lille, loan)
Most of the time the theme tune to 'The Great Escape' is used for a team that survives against the odds. But it would make an appropriate ringtone for Steve Bruce on personal grounds.
In 2006 he took down a Birmingham squad that had been widely regarded as their strongest in years. He started badly in the Championship and the lovable crew in charge at St Andrew's were publicly discussing his future. Still, here he is, back for more.
I'll stick my neck out and say.....
Read the full article...http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,12994_2627523,00.html
Sunderland
Odds on championship: 2,000-1.
Odds on relegation: 100-30
Manager: Roy Keane (since August 2006). Odds on first out the job: 20-1
Last season: Championship first, 88 points; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup first round
In: Michael Chopra (Cardiff, £5m); Kieran Richardson (Manchester United, £6m); Dickson Etuhu (Norwich, £1.5m); Greg Halford (Reading, £2.5m); Russell Anderson (Aberdeen, £1m); Paul McShane (West Brom, £2.5m)
Out: Stephen Elliott (Wolves, undisclosed); Tommy Miller (Ispwich, free); Kenny Cunningham, William Mocquet (released); Jonny Evans, Danny Simpson (both Man Utd, end of loan)
To state the blindingly obvious, managers are key figures at every club. Still, there are few more central to their team's chances than Roy Keane. Steve Coppell, perhaps, but football's most famous dog lover could give the Reading boss a run for his money. Last August, eyebrows were rupturing ceiling panels at the news of his appointment by Niall Quinn, but everything that has happened since has proved the sceptics (present company included) wrong.
It is hard to know what is most frightening about Roy Keane (and his dogs), but there is.....
Read the full article... http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,12994_2627586,00.html
Odds on championship: 7,500-1.
Odds on relegation: 1-2
Manager: Billy Davies (since June 2006).
Odds on first out the job: 8-1
Last season: Championship third, 84 points, play-off winners; FA Cup fifth round; Carling Cup second round
In: Robert Earnshaw (Norwich, £3.5m), Claude Davis (Sheff Utd, £3m), Tyrone Mears (West Ham, £1m), Andy Todd (Blackburn, free); Ben Hinchcliffe (Preston, undisc)
Out: Paul Peschisolido (Luton, free), Lee Grant (Sheff Wed, free), Ryan Smith (Millwall, £150,000), Paul Boertien, Steven Cann, Morten Bisgaard, Lionel Ainsworth, Seth Johnson (all released)
When Derby reached the play-offs in May, it was noted at length that Billy Davies had been in the semis the year before with Preston and was going to use that experience to help him negotiate them successfully this time around. What was reported an awful lot less was how Derby, not Davies, had got on in 2005-06.
Under the management of Phil Brown, the Rams finished 20th. Since relegation in 2002, their finishes have been 18th, 20th, fourth, 20th - then third, and up. Davies may be only 8-1 to be first to lose his job, but in a sane world the directors owe him...
Read the full article....http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,12994_2627456,00.html
Birmingham
Odds on championship: 5,000-1.
Odds on relegation: Evens
Manager: Steve Bruce (since December 2001).
Odds on first out the job: 5-1
Last season: Championship second, 86 points; FA Cup fourth round; Carling Cup fourth round
In: Stuart Parnaby (Middlesbrough, free); Garry O'Connor (Lokomotiv Moscow, £2.6m); Hossam Ghaly (Birmingham, £3m); Olivier Kapo (Juventus, £3m); Daniel De Ridder (Celta Vigo, free)
Out: Julian Gray (Coventry, free); Stephen Clemence (Leicester, £1m); DJ Campbell (Leicester, £2.1m); Bruno N'Gotty (Leicester, free); Rafael Schmitz (Lille, loan)
Most of the time the theme tune to 'The Great Escape' is used for a team that survives against the odds. But it would make an appropriate ringtone for Steve Bruce on personal grounds.
In 2006 he took down a Birmingham squad that had been widely regarded as their strongest in years. He started badly in the Championship and the lovable crew in charge at St Andrew's were publicly discussing his future. Still, here he is, back for more.
I'll stick my neck out and say.....
Read the full article...http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,12994_2627523,00.html
Sunderland
Odds on championship: 2,000-1.
Odds on relegation: 100-30
Manager: Roy Keane (since August 2006). Odds on first out the job: 20-1
Last season: Championship first, 88 points; FA Cup third round; Carling Cup first round
In: Michael Chopra (Cardiff, £5m); Kieran Richardson (Manchester United, £6m); Dickson Etuhu (Norwich, £1.5m); Greg Halford (Reading, £2.5m); Russell Anderson (Aberdeen, £1m); Paul McShane (West Brom, £2.5m)
Out: Stephen Elliott (Wolves, undisclosed); Tommy Miller (Ispwich, free); Kenny Cunningham, William Mocquet (released); Jonny Evans, Danny Simpson (both Man Utd, end of loan)
To state the blindingly obvious, managers are key figures at every club. Still, there are few more central to their team's chances than Roy Keane. Steve Coppell, perhaps, but football's most famous dog lover could give the Reading boss a run for his money. Last August, eyebrows were rupturing ceiling panels at the news of his appointment by Niall Quinn, but everything that has happened since has proved the sceptics (present company included) wrong.
It is hard to know what is most frightening about Roy Keane (and his dogs), but there is.....
Read the full article... http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,12994_2627586,00.html
Man Utd Loses Promising Striker
Villarreal have successfully concluded a deal with Manchester United that will see promising Giuseppe Rossi join them on a six-year deal.
The deal is reported to be in the region of 10 million euros(6.7 million pounds). Rossi is expected at the Madrigal on Wednesday to undergo a medical. He will most probably be a replacement for another former United player, Diego Forlan who moved on to Atletico Madrid.
Rossi’s move away from Old Trafford will inevitably increase speculation that the Tevez transfer saga will be concluded positively for Sir Alex.
The deal is reported to be in the region of 10 million euros(6.7 million pounds). Rossi is expected at the Madrigal on Wednesday to undergo a medical. He will most probably be a replacement for another former United player, Diego Forlan who moved on to Atletico Madrid.
Rossi’s move away from Old Trafford will inevitably increase speculation that the Tevez transfer saga will be concluded positively for Sir Alex.
F365 : It Is Gonna Be A Big Season For.......Part Three
Micah Richards (Manchester City)
For all Manchester United's quality players and new signings, there is still a potential weakness in the squad. If Gary Neville is injured - and, naturally, that will happen more as he gets older - they have no top class cover. Neither do England - and that could benefit a man plying his trade for Manchester's less illustrious club. There is little doubt that Micah Richards is now seen as England's second-choice right back.
Whether he'll play there for City this season remains to be seen; more than one manager has said he will eventually find himself in the centre of defence. But he will play somewhere - Richards is one of a handful of players from the Pearce era who can be confident that they have a future under Sven. And his contribution will be even more important to his club's ambitions than to his own international aspirations. With Sylvain Distin out of the picture, City's solid defence is in danger of turning shaky. There is no point City finally being able to score goals if they begin conceding by the bucketload. This is the year for Richards to turn from promising kid to quality, consistent performer.
Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United)
Ooh, Edwin, you lucky devil. If Ben Foster wasn't broken, you can bet the Dutchman would have found himself sat on the Manchester United bench at the start of this season, after a number of blunders in the last campaign were followed by some frankly comical goalkeeping on the club's Asian tour. Van Der Sar himself admitted as much, adding: "It is a mistake if you work harder to make up for errors. You have to stick to your routines."
Luckily for Van Der Sar, Foster's injury gives him the chance to do that - otherwise his routine woud be spending 90 minutes sitting behind Sir Alex Ferguson in the luxury boxes that pass for dug-outs at Old Trafford. But as the 36-year-old comes into the last year of his contract, the pressure begins to grow. If Van Der Sar decides to retire next summer, he'll want to go out on a high. If he doesn't plan on pipe and slippers just yet, then a return to his peak form is even more important.
Yakubu (Middlesbrough)
F365 was inundated with letters from angry Middlesbrough fans last week after Sarah Winterburn had the temerity to suggest that they might struggle this season. From a neutral point of view, it's hard to disagree with our Sarah. The loss of Mark Viduka will be a massive blow for Boro. Tuncay Sanli will, even if he is a success, need time to adapt. Jeremie Aliadiere has scored one Premier League goal in the eight years since he turned professional. Middlesbrough's goalscoring hopes rest on one man.
The good news is that that man is arguably the most underrated striker in the country. The bad news is that he failed to hit the target in his last 12 games of last season's campaign. Having grabbed 16 goals before that, it's fair to say Yakubu contributed a fair bit to Boro's season, but, if they manage to fend off his suitors, the Riverside faithful will want more from a man who should certainly be topping 20 goals every year. There's no doubt he has the ability. The same can't be said of some of his teammates - which is why Middlesbrough need Yakubu to get back to his best pronto.
Michael Owen (Newcastle United)
A lot of people will tell you Michal Owen's finished. The injuries have taken their toll, and he hasn't been the same player since he left Liverpool. He's lost his pace. They're wrong. Owen is still a world class goalscorer - the only world class out-and-out goalscorer that England have. He lost a lot of his pace years ago and learnt to live with it, adding a whole new dimension of paoching to his repertoire. His record for Newcastle, even with his injury problems, is a goal every two games. Indeed, he is one of very few strikers who, over the course of his career, has bettered that record; Owen has scored 138 league goals in 226 starts. His record in the cups is even better.
The problem, as everybody knows, is that very few of those games have been played in the last few years. But efforts have been made to change that. Owen returned at the end of last season looking like someone had stuffed American football pads under his shirt, such was the increase in muscle bulk. In Sam Allardyce, he has the best manager the Premier League can offer in terms of keeping players fit - but still, doubts remain. Owen's pre-season has once again been troubled by injury. If he can get fit and stay fit, though, he'll score as many goals as ever. And once he's begun to repay Newcastle's investment, there's a tournament at the end of the season that deserves a full fit and firing Owen to turn up, instead of the ravaged body that appeared at the 2006 World Cup. It's ten years next summer since that goal gave England fans dreams of glory. It's about time Owen did it again.
Sol Campbell (Portsmouth)
Last season, Sol Campbell proved his point on a individual level. The bundle of nerves who was always on the way out of Arsenal after doing a runner halfway through being embarrassed by West Ham was gone. The calm, strong, solid defender was back, and Pompey built one of the meanest defences in the league around him.
But to really prove the point that heading to Fratton Park was a good move - and remember, it's only a year since fans were openly mocking Campbell for making it - Campbell needs to lead his side into Europe this season. If Portsmouth had had a decent set of strikers, they would have managed it last season. Now, after the additions of David Nugent and John Utaka to the squad, they have a real chance to prove that they are firm members of the Premier League's second tier - so long as their defence stays solid. An England recall is too much to hope for, but if Campbell can be a colossus again, the future is bright on the south coast.
Adam Fraser
For all Manchester United's quality players and new signings, there is still a potential weakness in the squad. If Gary Neville is injured - and, naturally, that will happen more as he gets older - they have no top class cover. Neither do England - and that could benefit a man plying his trade for Manchester's less illustrious club. There is little doubt that Micah Richards is now seen as England's second-choice right back.
Whether he'll play there for City this season remains to be seen; more than one manager has said he will eventually find himself in the centre of defence. But he will play somewhere - Richards is one of a handful of players from the Pearce era who can be confident that they have a future under Sven. And his contribution will be even more important to his club's ambitions than to his own international aspirations. With Sylvain Distin out of the picture, City's solid defence is in danger of turning shaky. There is no point City finally being able to score goals if they begin conceding by the bucketload. This is the year for Richards to turn from promising kid to quality, consistent performer.
Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United)
Ooh, Edwin, you lucky devil. If Ben Foster wasn't broken, you can bet the Dutchman would have found himself sat on the Manchester United bench at the start of this season, after a number of blunders in the last campaign were followed by some frankly comical goalkeeping on the club's Asian tour. Van Der Sar himself admitted as much, adding: "It is a mistake if you work harder to make up for errors. You have to stick to your routines."
Luckily for Van Der Sar, Foster's injury gives him the chance to do that - otherwise his routine woud be spending 90 minutes sitting behind Sir Alex Ferguson in the luxury boxes that pass for dug-outs at Old Trafford. But as the 36-year-old comes into the last year of his contract, the pressure begins to grow. If Van Der Sar decides to retire next summer, he'll want to go out on a high. If he doesn't plan on pipe and slippers just yet, then a return to his peak form is even more important.
Yakubu (Middlesbrough)
F365 was inundated with letters from angry Middlesbrough fans last week after Sarah Winterburn had the temerity to suggest that they might struggle this season. From a neutral point of view, it's hard to disagree with our Sarah. The loss of Mark Viduka will be a massive blow for Boro. Tuncay Sanli will, even if he is a success, need time to adapt. Jeremie Aliadiere has scored one Premier League goal in the eight years since he turned professional. Middlesbrough's goalscoring hopes rest on one man.
The good news is that that man is arguably the most underrated striker in the country. The bad news is that he failed to hit the target in his last 12 games of last season's campaign. Having grabbed 16 goals before that, it's fair to say Yakubu contributed a fair bit to Boro's season, but, if they manage to fend off his suitors, the Riverside faithful will want more from a man who should certainly be topping 20 goals every year. There's no doubt he has the ability. The same can't be said of some of his teammates - which is why Middlesbrough need Yakubu to get back to his best pronto.
Michael Owen (Newcastle United)
A lot of people will tell you Michal Owen's finished. The injuries have taken their toll, and he hasn't been the same player since he left Liverpool. He's lost his pace. They're wrong. Owen is still a world class goalscorer - the only world class out-and-out goalscorer that England have. He lost a lot of his pace years ago and learnt to live with it, adding a whole new dimension of paoching to his repertoire. His record for Newcastle, even with his injury problems, is a goal every two games. Indeed, he is one of very few strikers who, over the course of his career, has bettered that record; Owen has scored 138 league goals in 226 starts. His record in the cups is even better.
The problem, as everybody knows, is that very few of those games have been played in the last few years. But efforts have been made to change that. Owen returned at the end of last season looking like someone had stuffed American football pads under his shirt, such was the increase in muscle bulk. In Sam Allardyce, he has the best manager the Premier League can offer in terms of keeping players fit - but still, doubts remain. Owen's pre-season has once again been troubled by injury. If he can get fit and stay fit, though, he'll score as many goals as ever. And once he's begun to repay Newcastle's investment, there's a tournament at the end of the season that deserves a full fit and firing Owen to turn up, instead of the ravaged body that appeared at the 2006 World Cup. It's ten years next summer since that goal gave England fans dreams of glory. It's about time Owen did it again.
Sol Campbell (Portsmouth)
Last season, Sol Campbell proved his point on a individual level. The bundle of nerves who was always on the way out of Arsenal after doing a runner halfway through being embarrassed by West Ham was gone. The calm, strong, solid defender was back, and Pompey built one of the meanest defences in the league around him.
But to really prove the point that heading to Fratton Park was a good move - and remember, it's only a year since fans were openly mocking Campbell for making it - Campbell needs to lead his side into Europe this season. If Portsmouth had had a decent set of strikers, they would have managed it last season. Now, after the additions of David Nugent and John Utaka to the squad, they have a real chance to prove that they are firm members of the Premier League's second tier - so long as their defence stays solid. An England recall is too much to hope for, but if Campbell can be a colossus again, the future is bright on the south coast.
Adam Fraser
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