It's been a while since an update! Apologies to anyone to has been waiting. It's been a hectic few weeks in the world of football with the season getting into full swing and the transfer window shutting. Today we're going to take a look at some of the more interesting and odd transfers from around the English leagues.
In the top flight, the most "shocking" transfer was that of a certain world cup finalist, none other than former Real Madrid player, Rafael Van Der Vaart. Tottenham managed to sign him on the deadline day, having only found out about his availability two hours before the deadline, they swooped in to purchase him from under Bayern Munich's nose. This is a very interesting transfer for the premiership with people clamouring to see how he will play in the premiership, the last few years he has been wasted at Madrid and now his chance to show that actually he is still a top class player, domestically and in Europe. However, will he fit into Tottenham's style? Surely not. The squad will end up having to either accomodate for him, or he will have to change how he plays for the squad, with so many class talents at White Hart Lane, it beggars belief to see how he will be able to play top dog, like he will clearly want to within a few months.
The biggest move in the Championship saw one of the most promising youngsters in English football leave England. Gylfi Sigurdsson over the last season has produced some sublime football for Reading, but was sold off for just over £6M according to the media. This figure however is surely a pittance to Hoffenheim who within 2-3 years if he keeps up his current level of development will double their money at the very least. This depature at Reading however has angered the fans, with many not knowing what the club are doing anymore and slowly becoming disillusioned with how the club is running, after the manager Brian McDermott only managed to bring in previous loanee Zurab Kishnishvill and also Ian Harte from Carlisle United. No massive replacement there then, this however can be seen by most fans round the country now that the Reading chairman, Mr Madejski is bored of the club and will not put any money in anymore, thus the club is sturggling to sign anyone. Reading really might end up in problems this season now if they cannot find a goalscorer to replace their midfield talisman ASAP.
Other big transfers included Robinho to AC Milan, meaning that despite Man City paying almost £1M a game for the privelege of having him, Roberto Mancini has got rid of him in time and recouped a lot of the money with an £18M sale. Man City of course were the big spenders this summer spending well over £150M bringing in names such as James Milner, Mario Balotelli and Yaya Toure. Surely now this is their season to push on towards the top four and qualify for the Champions League. If they do not manage this, Roberto Mancini will only have his own money to be spending next summer in the comfort of his own home, most likely unemployed.
In the betting world of football, there is only one tip I am advising today, and it is a small long term bet on Reading to be relegated, the defensive mentality that Brian McDermott has shown with the signings made may lead towards Reading gaining too many draws with a lack of goals. This is available at 25/1.
Round Up
Weds 18th August
So over the last few days, we have seen Tottenham play with the Young Boys (Sorry, it had to be done), with the Young boys coming out winners 3-2.
Harry Redknapp's side saw themselves staring into a black hole after the first half hour of complete and utter destruction from the Young Boys side from Bern. The artificial pitch can be cited possibly as a reason, however whatever the reason was, Spurs should have been taking this oppurtunity to reach the group stages with both hands. However after half hour they saw themselves 3-0 down and pretty much out of the competition.
However a header just before the half time mark from Bassong at a corner gave Spurs a foothold within the game, and not conceding again was important, as Roman Pavlyuchenko managed to smash in a goal in the final ten minutes of the game to give Spurs a great chancce of being able to turn the tie round at White Hart Lane. This goal could prove vital to Spurs this season, as if they do not even manage to make the Champions League proper, many Spurs fans will see this season as pretty much over before it has even begun.
In other news this week, Craig Bellamy has joined his boyhood club, Cardiff City on loan. This has been seen as an absolutley huge coup for Cardiff in their aim to be able to propel themselves to becoming the first Welsh team to compete in the Premier league. The move however was surrounded in controversy as Motherwell have threatened to send Baliffs to the home game Cardiff are playing on Saturday to collect cash for a supposed payment Cardiff still owe for players bought in January.
However, disregarding Cardiff's financial situation, the loan signing of Bellamy is massive for Bellmay and should bring Cardiff some major respect points from surrounding teams in the Championship. Cardiff fans are obviously giddy with the prospect of seeing Craig Bellamy playing for the bluebirds, and will hope that he can nick a few crucial goals this season to give them the extra points to get them to the Premier League.
So over the last few days, we have seen Tottenham play with the Young Boys (Sorry, it had to be done), with the Young boys coming out winners 3-2.
Harry Redknapp's side saw themselves staring into a black hole after the first half hour of complete and utter destruction from the Young Boys side from Bern. The artificial pitch can be cited possibly as a reason, however whatever the reason was, Spurs should have been taking this oppurtunity to reach the group stages with both hands. However after half hour they saw themselves 3-0 down and pretty much out of the competition.
However a header just before the half time mark from Bassong at a corner gave Spurs a foothold within the game, and not conceding again was important, as Roman Pavlyuchenko managed to smash in a goal in the final ten minutes of the game to give Spurs a great chancce of being able to turn the tie round at White Hart Lane. This goal could prove vital to Spurs this season, as if they do not even manage to make the Champions League proper, many Spurs fans will see this season as pretty much over before it has even begun.
In other news this week, Craig Bellamy has joined his boyhood club, Cardiff City on loan. This has been seen as an absolutley huge coup for Cardiff in their aim to be able to propel themselves to becoming the first Welsh team to compete in the Premier league. The move however was surrounded in controversy as Motherwell have threatened to send Baliffs to the home game Cardiff are playing on Saturday to collect cash for a supposed payment Cardiff still owe for players bought in January.
However, disregarding Cardiff's financial situation, the loan signing of Bellamy is massive for Bellmay and should bring Cardiff some major respect points from surrounding teams in the Championship. Cardiff fans are obviously giddy with the prospect of seeing Craig Bellamy playing for the bluebirds, and will hope that he can nick a few crucial goals this season to give them the extra points to get them to the Premier League.
Arsenal V Liverpool
Sunday 15th August
Liverpool and Arsenal played out an entertaining 1-1 draw today at Anfield with both teams seeing a debutant sent off.
Liverpool, playing their first league game with new boss Roy Hodgson started with a weakened eleven with Ngog playing upfront alone, leaving world cup winner Fernando Torres on the bench. Arsenal meanwhile had the recently capped Jack Wilshere starting in midfield, seemingly in place of Cesc Fabregas who was nowhere to be seen in the squad today. Chamakh and Koscienly made their debuts for the gunners both starting.
The first half was a slow burner with both clubs beginning quite cagey and not many chances created by either club until the end of the first half where Ngog managed to head goalwards from a Steven Gerrard corner. It was cleared off the line however by Gael Clichy as the first half moved into injury time. The game looked to be petering out towards the end of the first half when a rash tackle by Joe Cole saw him gain te first straight red card of the Premiership season given by Martin Atkinson for Cole's tackle on Koscielny, which whilst being ugly and having missed the ball has seen opinions split on the tackle with people not seemingly being able to decide whether the tackle was bad, not not awful, or just plain dirty nd well worthy of his red. Either way, Cole has not shone through here on his Liverpool league debut.
The second half, beginning with 10 v 11 wasn't long gone before David Ngog managed to smash the ball past Almunia (Who still doesnt know if he will be Arsenal's first choice keeper this season) after a pass from Mascherano set him on his way to put the ball in at the near post top corner. This left Arsenal with 45 minutes to try and get themselves back into the game making advantadge of the extra man, however Liverpool had completely rattled Arsenal and were all over them looking to secure the three points despite the numerical disadvntadge. Arsenal set about keeping posession, with Liverpool dropping deeper and deeper as the second half continued. However this dominance of posession was not shown by the chances created, as Arsenal finally managed to force Reina into an excellent save with only 5 minutes to go from a Rosicky shot, seemingly heading towards the top corner. However, Reina went from hero to zero in the space of five minutes as the ball bounces off him in the 89th minute from a corner and drops into the net to square the game up as it moved into injury time. The drama at Anfield wasn't over however as Koscelny managed to gain two bookings within 3 minutes and get himself sent off in injury time, with the second booking looking harsh for a handball. The game ended with both teams satisfied with a draw after the events of the end of the first, and start of the second half.
Liverpool and Arsenal played out an entertaining 1-1 draw today at Anfield with both teams seeing a debutant sent off.
Liverpool, playing their first league game with new boss Roy Hodgson started with a weakened eleven with Ngog playing upfront alone, leaving world cup winner Fernando Torres on the bench. Arsenal meanwhile had the recently capped Jack Wilshere starting in midfield, seemingly in place of Cesc Fabregas who was nowhere to be seen in the squad today. Chamakh and Koscienly made their debuts for the gunners both starting.
The first half was a slow burner with both clubs beginning quite cagey and not many chances created by either club until the end of the first half where Ngog managed to head goalwards from a Steven Gerrard corner. It was cleared off the line however by Gael Clichy as the first half moved into injury time. The game looked to be petering out towards the end of the first half when a rash tackle by Joe Cole saw him gain te first straight red card of the Premiership season given by Martin Atkinson for Cole's tackle on Koscielny, which whilst being ugly and having missed the ball has seen opinions split on the tackle with people not seemingly being able to decide whether the tackle was bad, not not awful, or just plain dirty nd well worthy of his red. Either way, Cole has not shone through here on his Liverpool league debut.
The second half, beginning with 10 v 11 wasn't long gone before David Ngog managed to smash the ball past Almunia (Who still doesnt know if he will be Arsenal's first choice keeper this season) after a pass from Mascherano set him on his way to put the ball in at the near post top corner. This left Arsenal with 45 minutes to try and get themselves back into the game making advantadge of the extra man, however Liverpool had completely rattled Arsenal and were all over them looking to secure the three points despite the numerical disadvntadge. Arsenal set about keeping posession, with Liverpool dropping deeper and deeper as the second half continued. However this dominance of posession was not shown by the chances created, as Arsenal finally managed to force Reina into an excellent save with only 5 minutes to go from a Rosicky shot, seemingly heading towards the top corner. However, Reina went from hero to zero in the space of five minutes as the ball bounces off him in the 89th minute from a corner and drops into the net to square the game up as it moved into injury time. The drama at Anfield wasn't over however as Koscelny managed to gain two bookings within 3 minutes and get himself sent off in injury time, with the second booking looking harsh for a handball. The game ended with both teams satisfied with a draw after the events of the end of the first, and start of the second half.
First Day Frenzy
Saturday 14th August
The first day of the Premiership is over with shock results, great goals and dubious refeering decisions. Yes ladies and gentlemen, the Premiership is back in town.
The season kicked off in north west London at White Hart Lane with Spurs and Man City providing a brilliant first half of football which may as well have been renamed "The Joe Hart and others show" as he pulled off a number of impressive saves. Something that seemed to be lacking in summer at the World Cup. I remember now, he didn't play. Looking a poorer decision by the week currently from Fabio there. The second half was slightly more even with Man City trying to gain a smash and grab three points but ending up having to settle for a 0-0 draw in the 4th spot battle.
The 3pm kick offs saw 6 matches kick off, with the first goal going in at Wigan, with the new boys Blackpool taking a shocking lead, after many people tipped them to go down with the least amount of points ever this season. They went on to score three more times, and even had a goal ruled out from a poor decision, as they hammered Wigan 4-0 to put them top of the table on goal difference. Another team who got hammered was West ham who feebly went down 3-0 away to Aston Villa, who without a permanent manager looked very solid and had eleven corners in the first half alone.
Wolves managed to gain a win on the first day of the season for 11 seasons beating Stoke 2-1 at Molineux, with record striker Kenwyne Jones going off injured for Stoke. Fulham meanwhile kept their away record of not managing to win away for 19 games with a 0-0 draw away to Bolton. Blackburn managed a convincing 1-0 at home to Everton with Tim Howard giving a goalkeeping lesson in how to blunder. Sunderland in the last of the 3PM kick offs were at home to Birmingham who went 2-0 down before coming back and drawing in the last 5 minutes to gain a point with a 2-2 draw. In the last kick off of the day, Chelsea smashed West Brom 6-0 with Drogba getting his first hat trick of the season, and what is unlikely to be his last.
The Championship saw the second managerial casualty in as many games as Kevin Blackwell was sacked after losing at home to QPR 3-0 in a poor defensive display. Millwall carried on their 100% record as they stuck 4 past Hull leaving them top of the table joint with QPR. Coventry who lie 3rd came back from 2-0 down at Watford in the last three minutes of the match to draw 2-2, and almost snatched it. Barnsley picked up their first win of the season as they defeated Crystal Palace 1-0. Derby went down at home 1-2 to Cardiff who will have been more concerned with the possible injury to McNaughton. Doncaster vs Bristol, Reading V Portsmouth and Ipswich V Burnley all contained late equalisers for the away teams which saw all three games end 1-1. Norwich snatched the three points at Scunthorpe winning 1-0, whilst Swansea pummeled Preston 4-0 at the Liberty Stadium. Leicester and Boro played out a scoreless draw at the Walkers.
League One this week had two postponements with both Exeter and Southampton suffering losses within the club this week their games with Dagenham and Redbridge, and MK Dons respectivley were both postponed. In the games which did take place, the shock result was at Dean Court with Bournemouth smashing 5 past promotion chasing Peterborough, with The Posh only managing a single consolation goal. Walsall picked up their first points with a 2-1 win away to Brentford, sending them to 2 successive losses. Brighton led twice against Rochdale but were pegged back both times and drew 2-2. Bristol Rovers almost threw 3 points away against Yeovil as they got a 90th minute equaliser, before Anthony scored in the 94th minute to give them a 2-1 win.
Colchester United held Sheff Weds at home to draw 1-1, another draw took place at Hartlepool who threw away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Swindon. Huddersfield were held 0-0 with Tranmere, whilst Oldham showed Notts Count playing away from home is just as tough as playing at home in league one with a 3-0 scoreline proving that. Plymouth came from behind against Carlisle to draw 1-1.
League Two today saw Torquay keep yet another clean sheet and a win 2-0 away to Lincoln to see them top of the table. Shrewsbury join them on 6 points after a 1-0 away win against Macclesfield. Wycombe hold 3rd place in this early stage after a 0-0 draw against recently relegated Stockport. Cheltenham beat Crewe 3-2 in an entertaining match to leave them fourth. Bradford beat the league's new boys Stevenage 1-0 at Valley Parade, whilst the other promoted club, Oxford managed to lose 2-1 at home to Bury. There was 0-0 draws at Barnet, Hereford, Morecambe and Northampton, with League Two having 5 0-0 draws this weekend, it is was devoid of goals.
This weekend of the football season has seen a shocking result with Blackpool managing to topple Wigan with the party on the coast probabaly heading on long into the night, whilst other clubs such as West Brom have already managed to end up where they expect to be for the majority of the season, in the relegation zone.
The first day of the Premiership is over with shock results, great goals and dubious refeering decisions. Yes ladies and gentlemen, the Premiership is back in town.
The season kicked off in north west London at White Hart Lane with Spurs and Man City providing a brilliant first half of football which may as well have been renamed "The Joe Hart and others show" as he pulled off a number of impressive saves. Something that seemed to be lacking in summer at the World Cup. I remember now, he didn't play. Looking a poorer decision by the week currently from Fabio there. The second half was slightly more even with Man City trying to gain a smash and grab three points but ending up having to settle for a 0-0 draw in the 4th spot battle.
Wolves managed to gain a win on the first day of the season for 11 seasons beating Stoke 2-1 at Molineux, with record striker Kenwyne Jones going off injured for Stoke. Fulham meanwhile kept their away record of not managing to win away for 19 games with a 0-0 draw away to Bolton. Blackburn managed a convincing 1-0 at home to Everton with Tim Howard giving a goalkeeping lesson in how to blunder. Sunderland in the last of the 3PM kick offs were at home to Birmingham who went 2-0 down before coming back and drawing in the last 5 minutes to gain a point with a 2-2 draw. In the last kick off of the day, Chelsea smashed West Brom 6-0 with Drogba getting his first hat trick of the season, and what is unlikely to be his last.
The Championship saw the second managerial casualty in as many games as Kevin Blackwell was sacked after losing at home to QPR 3-0 in a poor defensive display. Millwall carried on their 100% record as they stuck 4 past Hull leaving them top of the table joint with QPR. Coventry who lie 3rd came back from 2-0 down at Watford in the last three minutes of the match to draw 2-2, and almost snatched it. Barnsley picked up their first win of the season as they defeated Crystal Palace 1-0. Derby went down at home 1-2 to Cardiff who will have been more concerned with the possible injury to McNaughton. Doncaster vs Bristol, Reading V Portsmouth and Ipswich V Burnley all contained late equalisers for the away teams which saw all three games end 1-1. Norwich snatched the three points at Scunthorpe winning 1-0, whilst Swansea pummeled Preston 4-0 at the Liberty Stadium. Leicester and Boro played out a scoreless draw at the Walkers.
League One this week had two postponements with both Exeter and Southampton suffering losses within the club this week their games with Dagenham and Redbridge, and MK Dons respectivley were both postponed. In the games which did take place, the shock result was at Dean Court with Bournemouth smashing 5 past promotion chasing Peterborough, with The Posh only managing a single consolation goal. Walsall picked up their first points with a 2-1 win away to Brentford, sending them to 2 successive losses. Brighton led twice against Rochdale but were pegged back both times and drew 2-2. Bristol Rovers almost threw 3 points away against Yeovil as they got a 90th minute equaliser, before Anthony scored in the 94th minute to give them a 2-1 win.Colchester United held Sheff Weds at home to draw 1-1, another draw took place at Hartlepool who threw away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Swindon. Huddersfield were held 0-0 with Tranmere, whilst Oldham showed Notts Count playing away from home is just as tough as playing at home in league one with a 3-0 scoreline proving that. Plymouth came from behind against Carlisle to draw 1-1.
League Two today saw Torquay keep yet another clean sheet and a win 2-0 away to Lincoln to see them top of the table. Shrewsbury join them on 6 points after a 1-0 away win against Macclesfield. Wycombe hold 3rd place in this early stage after a 0-0 draw against recently relegated Stockport. Cheltenham beat Crewe 3-2 in an entertaining match to leave them fourth. Bradford beat the league's new boys Stevenage 1-0 at Valley Parade, whilst the other promoted club, Oxford managed to lose 2-1 at home to Bury. There was 0-0 draws at Barnet, Hereford, Morecambe and Northampton, with League Two having 5 0-0 draws this weekend, it is was devoid of goals.
This weekend of the football season has seen a shocking result with Blackpool managing to topple Wigan with the party on the coast probabaly heading on long into the night, whilst other clubs such as West Brom have already managed to end up where they expect to be for the majority of the season, in the relegation zone.
Tip Of The Week
Saturday 14th August
Of course this blog is mainly about football news, but of course betting and gambling is a key player in the world of sport and football, and so I hope that by reading this blog, you might even be able to win some money.
My tip of the week for this weekend is for Wigan -1 against Blackpool. Wigan although not being prolific scorers last season will want to start strongly against Blackpool, who are likely to be relegation competition with themselves. They have signed a record signing striker from Argnetina, Mauro Boselli, who will be looking to make his mark in the premiership against such a weak team tomorrow. Blackpool themselves are quite a weak team already, before even contending with the fact that tomorrow will be their first premier league game and nerves are bound to be a plenty. Blackpool have not managed to strengthen the defence massivley, after conceding 58 goals in the Championship, this could prove costly tomorrow against Wigan.
You can get 12/5 (3.4) at a number of places including Paddypower and 888sport. Bet confidence on this is 4 stars.
Of course this blog is mainly about football news, but of course betting and gambling is a key player in the world of sport and football, and so I hope that by reading this blog, you might even be able to win some money.
My tip of the week for this weekend is for Wigan -1 against Blackpool. Wigan although not being prolific scorers last season will want to start strongly against Blackpool, who are likely to be relegation competition with themselves. They have signed a record signing striker from Argnetina, Mauro Boselli, who will be looking to make his mark in the premiership against such a weak team tomorrow. Blackpool themselves are quite a weak team already, before even contending with the fact that tomorrow will be their first premier league game and nerves are bound to be a plenty. Blackpool have not managed to strengthen the defence massivley, after conceding 58 goals in the Championship, this could prove costly tomorrow against Wigan.
You can get 12/5 (3.4) at a number of places including Paddypower and 888sport. Bet confidence on this is 4 stars.
Premier League Preview
The Premier League kicks off tomorrow with the action kicking off at White hart Lane at 12:45 with Redknapp taking on Mancini as the battle for 4th place kicks off early in the season.
Manchester City this summer have spent big this summer, well over £100M has been spent by the Blues in an attempt to try and gain their place in the European elite next season. Mario Balotelli is their latest acquisation, coming in from Inter Milan. They have also acquired David Silva, Yaya Toure, Alexander Kolarov and Jerome Boateng. This should enable them to push forwards towards the top four as the season finishes in late May. However, Liverpool with Roy Hodgson at the helm will be looking to regain their spot in the top four of the Premier League.
Liverpool have had a summer of change with Benitez leaving the club before the Americans Gillet and Hicks bought in their first choice, Roy Hodgson from Fulham. They then have gone onto sign Jovanovic and Poulsen in an attempt to try to better their squad depth. Liverpool will not be alone though in trying to reach the top four with Everton and Aston Villa also holding out an outside chance of making the top four. Aston Villa having seen Martin O Neill resign earlier in the week due to differences with Randy Lerner however may well now be looking just to consolidate their position and make sure they finish above their main rivals still, Birmingham City.
Birmingham themselves had an excellent season last season and made a good impression on the Premier League. They have replaced their on loan keeper, Joe Hart with an able replacement in Ben Foster, and will hope that Benitez will finally manage to hit the goals that he was promised to score last season. Birmingham formed a midtable section of the Premier League last season along with Stoke, Fulham, Blackburn and Sunerland. All these clubs will be vying to finish on top of the middle "division" this season within the league, however not many have made serious strides forward and easily could be dragged back into the bottom division within the league.
The lower ends of the premiership include Wolves, Wigan and West Ham. Wolves and Wigan have been tipped by many to face the drop this season, with Wigan manager Martinez hoping to improve the defence with what was the worst goal difference in the league last year of -42. However, he will also need to sort his attack out, with it taking Jason Scotland until past new year to score his first Premier League goal. Wolves have a much more settled side and this season will look to consolidate their position in the league, and a succesful season for them will be staying in the league again, even more so with the stronger promoted teams.
The three promoted teams, Newcastle, West Brom and Blackpool all have tried to strengthen their teams this summer, to varying degrees of success. Newcastle have managed to sign Sol Campbell and with players such as Kevin Nolan and Steve Harper will be looking to stay up, and have since been installed as many people's favourites to stay in the top flight this season. West Brom have come up in 2nd place from the Championship, and have not managed to strengten their squad much, however, they come up with keeper Scott Carson in goal and will hope to manage to stay up this season, but will find it tough in such a competetive league, starting with an away trip to the champions, Chelsea. The last team to be promoted was Blackpool. The Seasiders are rank outsiders to even stay up in the league this year, being ruled out by many very early on with manager Ian Holloway being hemmed in by the rigid wage structure of the club, struggling to bring players in. Blackpool have also had major problems getting their ground ready, and will play their first two games away from home at Wigan and Arsenal, not playing a home game until the end of the month against Fulham.
The last league in the division is the top 3. Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. Chelsea, the current champions have bought in Ramires, the Brazilian, for around £18M in a bid to improve their squad. They have however lost Deco, and Ricardo Carvalho in an attempt to try and trim their squad too comply with the new 25 man squad rule.
Manchester United have not made any signings to try and improve their current squad, but bought in a player called Bebe to try and help them in the future. They however are second favourites behind Chelsea this season with the bookies rating them as a 3/1 shot for the title. Arsenal are slight outsiders for the title, as a 6/1 shot. Their main transfer in was a signing to improve their front line with Chamakh purchased in an attempt to help their front line. However, they have been linked with defenders also from Italy to try and improve their defence with Gallas being linked with Spurs.
The season is going to be a long 9 months for some teams, and for teams like Blackpool, Wigan and West Brom, it could end in despair. The season looks to be the most competitive for years, with a large contingent of teams thinking that this could be their year to have a great season.
Manchester City this summer have spent big this summer, well over £100M has been spent by the Blues in an attempt to try and gain their place in the European elite next season. Mario Balotelli is their latest acquisation, coming in from Inter Milan. They have also acquired David Silva, Yaya Toure, Alexander Kolarov and Jerome Boateng. This should enable them to push forwards towards the top four as the season finishes in late May. However, Liverpool with Roy Hodgson at the helm will be looking to regain their spot in the top four of the Premier League.Liverpool have had a summer of change with Benitez leaving the club before the Americans Gillet and Hicks bought in their first choice, Roy Hodgson from Fulham. They then have gone onto sign Jovanovic and Poulsen in an attempt to try to better their squad depth. Liverpool will not be alone though in trying to reach the top four with Everton and Aston Villa also holding out an outside chance of making the top four. Aston Villa having seen Martin O Neill resign earlier in the week due to differences with Randy Lerner however may well now be looking just to consolidate their position and make sure they finish above their main rivals still, Birmingham City.
Birmingham themselves had an excellent season last season and made a good impression on the Premier League. They have replaced their on loan keeper, Joe Hart with an able replacement in Ben Foster, and will hope that Benitez will finally manage to hit the goals that he was promised to score last season. Birmingham formed a midtable section of the Premier League last season along with Stoke, Fulham, Blackburn and Sunerland. All these clubs will be vying to finish on top of the middle "division" this season within the league, however not many have made serious strides forward and easily could be dragged back into the bottom division within the league.
The three promoted teams, Newcastle, West Brom and Blackpool all have tried to strengthen their teams this summer, to varying degrees of success. Newcastle have managed to sign Sol Campbell and with players such as Kevin Nolan and Steve Harper will be looking to stay up, and have since been installed as many people's favourites to stay in the top flight this season. West Brom have come up in 2nd place from the Championship, and have not managed to strengten their squad much, however, they come up with keeper Scott Carson in goal and will hope to manage to stay up this season, but will find it tough in such a competetive league, starting with an away trip to the champions, Chelsea. The last team to be promoted was Blackpool. The Seasiders are rank outsiders to even stay up in the league this year, being ruled out by many very early on with manager Ian Holloway being hemmed in by the rigid wage structure of the club, struggling to bring players in. Blackpool have also had major problems getting their ground ready, and will play their first two games away from home at Wigan and Arsenal, not playing a home game until the end of the month against Fulham.
The last league in the division is the top 3. Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. Chelsea, the current champions have bought in Ramires, the Brazilian, for around £18M in a bid to improve their squad. They have however lost Deco, and Ricardo Carvalho in an attempt to try and trim their squad too comply with the new 25 man squad rule.
The season is going to be a long 9 months for some teams, and for teams like Blackpool, Wigan and West Brom, it could end in despair. The season looks to be the most competitive for years, with a large contingent of teams thinking that this could be their year to have a great season.
Coppell Calls it Quits
Friday 13th August
Steve Coppell quit as manager of Bristol City yesterday after just 112 days in charge at the West Country side. He has not released any official reason other than that he cannot become passionate about the job.
Steve Coppell has previously become a club legend at both Reading and Crystal Palace, and this news has come as a shock to Bristol City fans who thought that with such a good Championship manager in place that they had the ability to finally reach the promised land in the next few years. Having got Steve Coppell out of his year long abscense from football after he resigned from his post with Reading after guiding them to a 3rd place finish the season after their relegation, Bristol City fans were hopeful for a glorious show of fast flowing attacking football.
However, the pre season had not gone well for Bristol city with heavy defeats at lower league clubs not setting the club off on the right foot for the season. With the first game at Ashton Gate being a comprehensive 3-0 loss to Millwall, the divisions new boys, which could have been by a greater goal margin, City had not started the season brightly, despite having a huge injury crisis in Bristol, the hopes were that Coppell was starting slow, as many of his previous clubs could testify.
This however proved not to be the case, with Coppell leaving britol City early on Thursday morning, stating his lack of passion for the job has led him to retire from football management completly. However, there is always the possibility of Coppell ending back up in football somewhere else in a different role.
Steve Coppell quit as manager of Bristol City yesterday after just 112 days in charge at the West Country side. He has not released any official reason other than that he cannot become passionate about the job.
Steve Coppell has previously become a club legend at both Reading and Crystal Palace, and this news has come as a shock to Bristol City fans who thought that with such a good Championship manager in place that they had the ability to finally reach the promised land in the next few years. Having got Steve Coppell out of his year long abscense from football after he resigned from his post with Reading after guiding them to a 3rd place finish the season after their relegation, Bristol City fans were hopeful for a glorious show of fast flowing attacking football.
However, the pre season had not gone well for Bristol city with heavy defeats at lower league clubs not setting the club off on the right foot for the season. With the first game at Ashton Gate being a comprehensive 3-0 loss to Millwall, the divisions new boys, which could have been by a greater goal margin, City had not started the season brightly, despite having a huge injury crisis in Bristol, the hopes were that Coppell was starting slow, as many of his previous clubs could testify.This however proved not to be the case, with Coppell leaving britol City early on Thursday morning, stating his lack of passion for the job has led him to retire from football management completly. However, there is always the possibility of Coppell ending back up in football somewhere else in a different role.
David Beckham - Retired?
Thurs 12th August
David Beckham last night controversially found out that he is unlikely to be playing for England anymore since his Achilles injury in March ruled him out of playing for England at the World Cup.
Capello last night gave an interview stating "Beckham will not play again for England...too old". This seems to be another step which Capello has taken in the wrong direction according to large swathes of fans who would still like Beckham to at least be able to compete for his place in the national side, despite his age.
Beckham has won 115 caps for England since his debut in 1996. Beckham was captain for 58 games before relinquishing the role to John Terry. After being frozen out by Steve McClaren in his reign, Fabio Capello looks to have done the same now with David Beckham. However this seems to be a major issue among fans, after all, whenever England get a free kick outside the box, it'll be forever known as "Beckham territory". This is because Beckham is still the best free kick taker the England national team possess, and even if his age is a barrier to him playing at the finals in 2012, he cannot be ruled out so early on.
This issue however is not the crux of the problem which many fans have with Capello moving this in. Fans can tell that youth is needed to bring the team forwards, and if Beckham is not to be involved, then that is the way it has to be. But for David Beckham to find out that is how he will not be playing for England anymore, as many media outlets have reported. Must leave sour grapes in his mouth ever so slightly with the iron-fisted Italian. Hopefully David Beckham will have been pre-warned in advance, and not told that he might have one more "farewell match" to say his goodbyes to the fans who have almost idolised him since the Greece game through the medium of ITV and their reporting.
David Beckham last night controversially found out that he is unlikely to be playing for England anymore since his Achilles injury in March ruled him out of playing for England at the World Cup.
Capello last night gave an interview stating "Beckham will not play again for England...too old". This seems to be another step which Capello has taken in the wrong direction according to large swathes of fans who would still like Beckham to at least be able to compete for his place in the national side, despite his age.
Beckham has won 115 caps for England since his debut in 1996. Beckham was captain for 58 games before relinquishing the role to John Terry. After being frozen out by Steve McClaren in his reign, Fabio Capello looks to have done the same now with David Beckham. However this seems to be a major issue among fans, after all, whenever England get a free kick outside the box, it'll be forever known as "Beckham territory". This is because Beckham is still the best free kick taker the England national team possess, and even if his age is a barrier to him playing at the finals in 2012, he cannot be ruled out so early on.This issue however is not the crux of the problem which many fans have with Capello moving this in. Fans can tell that youth is needed to bring the team forwards, and if Beckham is not to be involved, then that is the way it has to be. But for David Beckham to find out that is how he will not be playing for England anymore, as many media outlets have reported. Must leave sour grapes in his mouth ever so slightly with the iron-fisted Italian. Hopefully David Beckham will have been pre-warned in advance, and not told that he might have one more "farewell match" to say his goodbyes to the fans who have almost idolised him since the Greece game through the medium of ITV and their reporting.
England Match Analysis & Other Football News
Wednesday 11th August
A few points to dicsuss have come up from the international game at Wembley tonight, not all to do with the game either, with the Daily Mail (Yes, The Daily Mail got quoted in this blog, might as well stop writing now) saying England are not in "safe hands" anymore due to the two goalkeeping callups.
I'm not sure exactly who is the chief England writer for the paper, but the two call ups, Scott Loach, and Frankie Fielding, are both part of the England U21 set up, and thus didn't need to be released from their clubs, unlike if Capello had called up someone else (although who else did he really have to choose from!) who were still at their club. The ignorance also from from the ITV commentators tonight was just mental, I quote, "I hope someone can tell the difference between them, as I can't". The media utterly baffles me with their research, top media journalists? Get a grip.
On the subject of the game, there were some positives for England tonight, despite the booing which did occur for the majority of the starting XI before the game. Focusing on the positives, Walcott when he was on the ball looked dangerous and managed to drag defenders away from other threats. The second half saw other threats coming into the game, Ashley Young, despite not having played for England for over a year looked a threat down the left and made a good connection with the youngster Gibbs who has impressed on his debut.
Up front, Rooney played alone for the first half, and looked slightly isolated with Gerrard playing off him, during the second half, Zamora came on and England began to look more threatening in front of goal, although not many chances were created in the area. One instance stands out where Zamora was on the byline in the area looking across the box, with no one to pass to. Zamora himself looked a threat with a great header saved by Kiraly in the last few minutes, and a strong left footed shot from 20 yards palmed over. His link up play with Adam Johnson was also looking good, and Zamora can look towards the qualifiers in September with the hope of being in the squad after tonight's performance.
Adam Johnson was another who came into his own tonight who looked promising particularly in the second half where he showed he can play across the whole of the midfield, and he was unlucky not to score tonight.
The other new boys were in defence, Jagielka who did what he had to, but could be outdone by a stronger front line in future if his performance was to be the same, and Michael Dawson who let nerves get to him making a few mistakes, one which was crucial to the first goal which England conceded, (Not over the line for what it is worth, someone remind FIFA goalline technology was very 2000's and we don't need it now anyway?) before making a few sloppy passes as well.
Other positives to come from the night were that Steven Gerrard does actually exist when wearing a white shirt, and not a red one by scoring two very good goals. Hart for a good, if quite simple goalkeeping performance, and also Hungary for giving England an actual game and not rolling over.
England do have work left if they wish to improve and be sure to win the qualifying group for Euro 2012, however the signs are there that they can improve with youngsters blending their way into the team in the near future.
In other football news today, the first round of the Carling Cup was completed, with Hartlepool proving to be the only shock of the night winning 2-0 at home to Sheffield United, Reading were ran close but a last minute extra time winner saw them through 1-0 against Torquay, whilst Cardiff needed extra time also to beat Burton 4-1, with a brace from Ross McCormack. The draw for the second round has been completed with the "highlight" being Accrington hosting premier league Newcastle. Other notable things to have occurred today are the passing of Southampton owner Markus Liebherr, and also Stoke City's record signing of Kenwyne Jones for £8M.
A few points to dicsuss have come up from the international game at Wembley tonight, not all to do with the game either, with the Daily Mail (Yes, The Daily Mail got quoted in this blog, might as well stop writing now) saying England are not in "safe hands" anymore due to the two goalkeeping callups.
I'm not sure exactly who is the chief England writer for the paper, but the two call ups, Scott Loach, and Frankie Fielding, are both part of the England U21 set up, and thus didn't need to be released from their clubs, unlike if Capello had called up someone else (although who else did he really have to choose from!) who were still at their club. The ignorance also from from the ITV commentators tonight was just mental, I quote, "I hope someone can tell the difference between them, as I can't". The media utterly baffles me with their research, top media journalists? Get a grip.
On the subject of the game, there were some positives for England tonight, despite the booing which did occur for the majority of the starting XI before the game. Focusing on the positives, Walcott when he was on the ball looked dangerous and managed to drag defenders away from other threats. The second half saw other threats coming into the game, Ashley Young, despite not having played for England for over a year looked a threat down the left and made a good connection with the youngster Gibbs who has impressed on his debut.Up front, Rooney played alone for the first half, and looked slightly isolated with Gerrard playing off him, during the second half, Zamora came on and England began to look more threatening in front of goal, although not many chances were created in the area. One instance stands out where Zamora was on the byline in the area looking across the box, with no one to pass to. Zamora himself looked a threat with a great header saved by Kiraly in the last few minutes, and a strong left footed shot from 20 yards palmed over. His link up play with Adam Johnson was also looking good, and Zamora can look towards the qualifiers in September with the hope of being in the squad after tonight's performance.
Adam Johnson was another who came into his own tonight who looked promising particularly in the second half where he showed he can play across the whole of the midfield, and he was unlucky not to score tonight.
The other new boys were in defence, Jagielka who did what he had to, but could be outdone by a stronger front line in future if his performance was to be the same, and Michael Dawson who let nerves get to him making a few mistakes, one which was crucial to the first goal which England conceded, (Not over the line for what it is worth, someone remind FIFA goalline technology was very 2000's and we don't need it now anyway?) before making a few sloppy passes as well.Other positives to come from the night were that Steven Gerrard does actually exist when wearing a white shirt, and not a red one by scoring two very good goals. Hart for a good, if quite simple goalkeeping performance, and also Hungary for giving England an actual game and not rolling over.
England do have work left if they wish to improve and be sure to win the qualifying group for Euro 2012, however the signs are there that they can improve with youngsters blending their way into the team in the near future.
In other football news today, the first round of the Carling Cup was completed, with Hartlepool proving to be the only shock of the night winning 2-0 at home to Sheffield United, Reading were ran close but a last minute extra time winner saw them through 1-0 against Torquay, whilst Cardiff needed extra time also to beat Burton 4-1, with a brace from Ross McCormack. The draw for the second round has been completed with the "highlight" being Accrington hosting premier league Newcastle. Other notable things to have occurred today are the passing of Southampton owner Markus Liebherr, and also Stoke City's record signing of Kenwyne Jones for £8M.
League Cup 1st Round Round Up
Tuesday 10th August
The Carling Cup began last night with the first round taking place just days into the season, the surprises in the first round are often numerous, with many Championship clubs falling to lower league clubs after "playing a weakened team".
One of the biggest shocks of the night tonight was seeing current Championship leaders,(admittedly, it is only after one game though!) QPR, humiliated in front of their own fans by Port Vale losing 3-1 after making 5 changes from their impressive league start against Barnsley.
Football league returners, Oxford United, managed to cap off a very easy night for themselves at the Kassam stadium where they managed to put six past Bristol Rovers, who are not strong away from home generally, and will be rightfully embaressed by this performance away to a lower league side. The other side promoted from the conference, Stevenage, hosted Portsmouth in the Monday night game on TV. They put up a good fight against the recently relegated Premiership club before the extra quality from Pompey shone through and they advanced to the second round 2-1.
Another shock occured at Shrewsbury, where they defeated Charlton 4-3 in an enthralling game coming from 3-0 down after half an hour of play to win it in 90 minutes. Nottingham Forest also have been dumped out of the Carling Cup early this season by a lower league side with Bradford putting them out in extra time, despite Forest playing a reasonably strong team and going 1-0 up.
Other results include Southend beating Steve Coppell's new team, Bristol City 3-2 AET, Preston putting 5 past Lancashire rivals Stockport at Edgeley Park, and Crewe putting Derby out by 1 goal to nil.
There is three games to be played tomorrow in the Carling Cup. Torquay host Reading, Hartlepool face Sheffield United, and Cardiff are playing at home to Burton Albion. Of course, with this being the first round of the cup, and no replays being played, the teams for the next round will be known by tomorrow night.
The draw for the second round will take place tomorrow night following the end of the games taking place.
The Carling Cup began last night with the first round taking place just days into the season, the surprises in the first round are often numerous, with many Championship clubs falling to lower league clubs after "playing a weakened team".
One of the biggest shocks of the night tonight was seeing current Championship leaders,(admittedly, it is only after one game though!) QPR, humiliated in front of their own fans by Port Vale losing 3-1 after making 5 changes from their impressive league start against Barnsley.
Football league returners, Oxford United, managed to cap off a very easy night for themselves at the Kassam stadium where they managed to put six past Bristol Rovers, who are not strong away from home generally, and will be rightfully embaressed by this performance away to a lower league side. The other side promoted from the conference, Stevenage, hosted Portsmouth in the Monday night game on TV. They put up a good fight against the recently relegated Premiership club before the extra quality from Pompey shone through and they advanced to the second round 2-1.Another shock occured at Shrewsbury, where they defeated Charlton 4-3 in an enthralling game coming from 3-0 down after half an hour of play to win it in 90 minutes. Nottingham Forest also have been dumped out of the Carling Cup early this season by a lower league side with Bradford putting them out in extra time, despite Forest playing a reasonably strong team and going 1-0 up.
Other results include Southend beating Steve Coppell's new team, Bristol City 3-2 AET, Preston putting 5 past Lancashire rivals Stockport at Edgeley Park, and Crewe putting Derby out by 1 goal to nil.
There is three games to be played tomorrow in the Carling Cup. Torquay host Reading, Hartlepool face Sheffield United, and Cardiff are playing at home to Burton Albion. Of course, with this being the first round of the cup, and no replays being played, the teams for the next round will be known by tomorrow night.
The draw for the second round will take place tomorrow night following the end of the games taking place.
England Squad Reaction
Monday 9th August
The beginning of the week sees football dominate the back pages again with Fabio Capello seeing his name splashed across the Monday papers after his squad selection has caused many talking points.
Goalkeepers:
Ben Foster
Joe Hart
Paul Robinson
The goalkeeping selection from Capello is an interesting one. Joe Hart, although has been around the England set up for a while has never managed to break into his clubs first team. However an excellent season last season proved to England fans that he can mix it with the best and rightfully has his spot in the squad. Ben Foster has finally left Manchester United, after never really looking like taking the number one shirt there and has joined Birmingham, this move will help him the long run to stay around the England squad which he has flopped in and out of so often due to not playing enough. The last selection by Fabio was Paul Robinson, who then promptly announced he wasn't content to play third fiddle. This hasn't come as a shock really to many people who respect his decision with it being obvious to many that Hart and Foster are the two goalkeepers England will probabaly be looking at long term.
Defenders:
Gary Cahill
Ashley Cole
Michael Dawson
Kieran Gibbs
Phil Jagielka
Glen Johnson
John Terry
Wes Brown *
The defending situation within the international scene for England was shown up to be in lacklustre condition as Germany stuck four past England in the second round of the world cup, and with long term choices, Rio Ferdinand, seemingly permantley injured, Fabio Capello has looked elsewhere for a partner to John Terry. Gary Cahill has been playing at Bolton for a number of seasons now, and although never spectacular has managed to prove he is a solid centre back in the premiership, whether he is good enough to step it up another level is questionable however. Ashley Cole came home from the World Cup as one of only a few England players who could say they played to a reasonable standard. However, he may have to be content with a place on the bench on Wednesday night if Capello is looking to blood youngsters into the team. Michael Dawson managed to get his spot at the World Cup, and then was promptly ignored by Capello for three weeks before flying home again having not even set foot on the field. Dawson has a lot to prove to Capello to show him that he is not just a filler player, and that he can command the centre back position for England.
Kieran Gibbs is the first real youngster that Capello has selected for this squad, having only played in a few games last season before breaking a metatarsel, it remains to be seen how good Gibbs is. Capello will use this to game to bring him into the fold, but is unlikely to judge on the game, as he will be looking to make sure that Kieran can hold down the Arsenal left back spot before being selected for England in future. Phil Jagielka is a player who many thought that England should have taken to the World Cup, having only won 3 caps before, Jagielka is likely to get his next cap for England on Wednesday having not played for England since Feburary 2009. Jagielka will also possibly be looking to put himself about with Arsenal looking for him to join them. Glen Johnson and John Terry have also both been selected, which were pretty obvious choices to most, however it is hoped that Capello limits both their playing time, with mistakes from Terry in particular costing England at the World Cup. Wes Brown was the last selection for the defence, however, he soon followed Paul Robinson in telling Capello he doesn't want to play for England anymore, due to being left out of the World Cup squad.
Midfielders:
Gareth Barry
Steven Gerrard
Adam Johnson
Frank Lampard
James Milner
Ashley Young
Theo Walcott
Jack Wilshere
Midfield has always been a touchy subject with England fans, with so many different options and formations tried and discussed, none ever really utilising the two players who shine most for their clubs, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard. The midfield squad for the Hungary game can be split into three: The Obvious; The dubious and the newbies.
The obvious selections into Capello's squad were the four that he took to the World Cup. Capello has become very enamoured with James Milner following his season of performances at Villa, however this has hampered his captain who is playing on the left hand side now, Steven Gerrard himself has said he will play anywhere for the team, but knows he plays best through the middle. Leaving England with a problem, as the other two "obvious choices", Lampard and Barry, although different players are also both central midfielders, and if Capello wants to be able to play at least three, he is going to have to move away from his standard 4-4-2, or carry on playing his best players out of position.
The dubious selections for this squad include the two names of Ashley Young, and Theo Walcott. These two have been picked for England before and played well before in fits and spurts. But there in lies the problem with both of them. Capello never knows who is going to turn up with them, with Young having a mediocre season at Villa compared to previous outings, and Walcott not getting enough game time still at Arsenal, it could be argued that these two although young are almost coming up their final chances with the England squad whilst Capello is manager.
The two new boys who have been selected are Jack Wilshere and Adam Johnson. Both are relative new kids to the squad, with Johnson only being selected on the back of his good end of 09/10 season, and Wilshere being selected on potential talent he might bring out in the next few years. The hope is really that one, or even both by 2014 will have forced their way into the first team and will be commanding the centre of the England midfield.
Forwards:
Darren Bent
Carlton Cole
Wayne Rooney
Bobby Zamora
The forward line for England against Hungary can be described as weak. However I feel that in all honesty, I cannot remember a weaker set of strikers going into an England game. Darren Bent has pulled out of the squad due to an injury, leaving Capello with three strikers.
Wayne Rooney, who was one of his worst performers at the World Cup, should have a lot to prove, but doesn't because of his almost guarenteed spot for England, which in a way hinders him I feel, as with competition for his spot, the game we see him play so well for Manchester United might come out more often for England. Carlton Cole is a very take it how you see it sort of player, he will be the big man in the partnership if Capello decides to stick with 4-4-2, and although he can score goals, he just isn't good enough to threaten a world class defence. Bobby Zamora is the last selection that Capello has made, with Zamora having had such an excellent season last season for Fulham it makes perfect sense to try and fit in him to the squad, however, where can he fit into the England system is the key question he needs to answer himself. If he is to be selected on a more regular basis, England will most likely need to change their style of play around him so they have a more tangiable threat from him, than their current style of play.
The squad Capello has selected is a strong one, however is it the best one? No. Probabaly not. Is it the one teeming with youngsters like he said he wanted to do? Well, not really that either. The problem he has created for himself by picking this squad is that it's not enough one way or the other. Hopefully on wednesday night we will see a rejuvanted England team come out, play some good football with some new players involved and gain a nice comfortable win. However, even if that happens, the question will remain, where are the other talented youngsters who already play for their clubs week in, week out, such as Jack Rodwell for Everton.
In other news today within the world of football, Martin O Neill has finally up and left from his position as boss of Aston Villa. Whilst many fans think that this is the end for Villa, I feel that for them it is probably for the best. Aston Villa have hit a ceiling within the premiership currently which by playing as MON does, it is unlikely that they will be able to break through it spending over exaggerated amounts on English talent. Although he has his plaudits, I feel that many could do just a good job at Villa as he has, and I hope that someone can come in and dig them out of the hole he has left them in before the start of the season.
The beginning of the week sees football dominate the back pages again with Fabio Capello seeing his name splashed across the Monday papers after his squad selection has caused many talking points.
Goalkeepers:
Ben Foster
Joe Hart
Paul Robinson
The goalkeeping selection from Capello is an interesting one. Joe Hart, although has been around the England set up for a while has never managed to break into his clubs first team. However an excellent season last season proved to England fans that he can mix it with the best and rightfully has his spot in the squad. Ben Foster has finally left Manchester United, after never really looking like taking the number one shirt there and has joined Birmingham, this move will help him the long run to stay around the England squad which he has flopped in and out of so often due to not playing enough. The last selection by Fabio was Paul Robinson, who then promptly announced he wasn't content to play third fiddle. This hasn't come as a shock really to many people who respect his decision with it being obvious to many that Hart and Foster are the two goalkeepers England will probabaly be looking at long term.
Defenders:
Gary Cahill
Ashley Cole
Michael Dawson
Kieran Gibbs
Phil Jagielka
Glen Johnson
John Terry
Wes Brown *
The defending situation within the international scene for England was shown up to be in lacklustre condition as Germany stuck four past England in the second round of the world cup, and with long term choices, Rio Ferdinand, seemingly permantley injured, Fabio Capello has looked elsewhere for a partner to John Terry. Gary Cahill has been playing at Bolton for a number of seasons now, and although never spectacular has managed to prove he is a solid centre back in the premiership, whether he is good enough to step it up another level is questionable however. Ashley Cole came home from the World Cup as one of only a few England players who could say they played to a reasonable standard. However, he may have to be content with a place on the bench on Wednesday night if Capello is looking to blood youngsters into the team. Michael Dawson managed to get his spot at the World Cup, and then was promptly ignored by Capello for three weeks before flying home again having not even set foot on the field. Dawson has a lot to prove to Capello to show him that he is not just a filler player, and that he can command the centre back position for England.
Kieran Gibbs is the first real youngster that Capello has selected for this squad, having only played in a few games last season before breaking a metatarsel, it remains to be seen how good Gibbs is. Capello will use this to game to bring him into the fold, but is unlikely to judge on the game, as he will be looking to make sure that Kieran can hold down the Arsenal left back spot before being selected for England in future. Phil Jagielka is a player who many thought that England should have taken to the World Cup, having only won 3 caps before, Jagielka is likely to get his next cap for England on Wednesday having not played for England since Feburary 2009. Jagielka will also possibly be looking to put himself about with Arsenal looking for him to join them. Glen Johnson and John Terry have also both been selected, which were pretty obvious choices to most, however it is hoped that Capello limits both their playing time, with mistakes from Terry in particular costing England at the World Cup. Wes Brown was the last selection for the defence, however, he soon followed Paul Robinson in telling Capello he doesn't want to play for England anymore, due to being left out of the World Cup squad.Midfielders:
Gareth Barry
Steven Gerrard
Adam Johnson
Frank Lampard
James Milner
Ashley Young
Theo Walcott
Jack Wilshere
Midfield has always been a touchy subject with England fans, with so many different options and formations tried and discussed, none ever really utilising the two players who shine most for their clubs, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard. The midfield squad for the Hungary game can be split into three: The Obvious; The dubious and the newbies.
The obvious selections into Capello's squad were the four that he took to the World Cup. Capello has become very enamoured with James Milner following his season of performances at Villa, however this has hampered his captain who is playing on the left hand side now, Steven Gerrard himself has said he will play anywhere for the team, but knows he plays best through the middle. Leaving England with a problem, as the other two "obvious choices", Lampard and Barry, although different players are also both central midfielders, and if Capello wants to be able to play at least three, he is going to have to move away from his standard 4-4-2, or carry on playing his best players out of position.
The dubious selections for this squad include the two names of Ashley Young, and Theo Walcott. These two have been picked for England before and played well before in fits and spurts. But there in lies the problem with both of them. Capello never knows who is going to turn up with them, with Young having a mediocre season at Villa compared to previous outings, and Walcott not getting enough game time still at Arsenal, it could be argued that these two although young are almost coming up their final chances with the England squad whilst Capello is manager.The two new boys who have been selected are Jack Wilshere and Adam Johnson. Both are relative new kids to the squad, with Johnson only being selected on the back of his good end of 09/10 season, and Wilshere being selected on potential talent he might bring out in the next few years. The hope is really that one, or even both by 2014 will have forced their way into the first team and will be commanding the centre of the England midfield.
Forwards:
Darren Bent
Carlton Cole
Wayne Rooney
Bobby Zamora
The forward line for England against Hungary can be described as weak. However I feel that in all honesty, I cannot remember a weaker set of strikers going into an England game. Darren Bent has pulled out of the squad due to an injury, leaving Capello with three strikers.
Wayne Rooney, who was one of his worst performers at the World Cup, should have a lot to prove, but doesn't because of his almost guarenteed spot for England, which in a way hinders him I feel, as with competition for his spot, the game we see him play so well for Manchester United might come out more often for England. Carlton Cole is a very take it how you see it sort of player, he will be the big man in the partnership if Capello decides to stick with 4-4-2, and although he can score goals, he just isn't good enough to threaten a world class defence. Bobby Zamora is the last selection that Capello has made, with Zamora having had such an excellent season last season for Fulham it makes perfect sense to try and fit in him to the squad, however, where can he fit into the England system is the key question he needs to answer himself. If he is to be selected on a more regular basis, England will most likely need to change their style of play around him so they have a more tangiable threat from him, than their current style of play.
The squad Capello has selected is a strong one, however is it the best one? No. Probabaly not. Is it the one teeming with youngsters like he said he wanted to do? Well, not really that either. The problem he has created for himself by picking this squad is that it's not enough one way or the other. Hopefully on wednesday night we will see a rejuvanted England team come out, play some good football with some new players involved and gain a nice comfortable win. However, even if that happens, the question will remain, where are the other talented youngsters who already play for their clubs week in, week out, such as Jack Rodwell for Everton.
In other news today within the world of football, Martin O Neill has finally up and left from his position as boss of Aston Villa. Whilst many fans think that this is the end for Villa, I feel that for them it is probably for the best. Aston Villa have hit a ceiling within the premiership currently which by playing as MON does, it is unlikely that they will be able to break through it spending over exaggerated amounts on English talent. Although he has his plaudits, I feel that many could do just a good job at Villa as he has, and I hope that someone can come in and dig them out of the hole he has left them in before the start of the season.
Weekend Round Up
Sunday 8th August
So we have the football season up and running at long last (Although too early some may say), and the first weekend of the next ten months has finally come to an end with Manchester United beating Chelsea in the Charity Shield this afternoon at Wembley.
The season officially began with Norwich hosting Watford on TV on Friday night, with Norwich having been promoted as champions, and playing in front of a large home crowd eager to see them back in the Championship, a home win was expected against favoured relegation candidates, Watford. However Watford had not read the script with them taking all three points in an entertaining 3-2 clash.
The majority of The Championship kicked off on Saturday afternoon with promotion hopefuls Nottingham Forest putting in a good shift before being cast aside by Burnley 1-0. Other potential promotion contenders McBoro lost 3-1 at home to Ipswich after going 1-0 up in the first half, and lost Willo Flood to an injury which sees him ruled out for a few months.
Newboys Millwall stunned the Bristol City faithful with a resounding 3-0 thumping that could have, and should have been more, had it not been for England international, David James in goal making some outstanding saves. Goalkeeping was also the crux of the matter at Ricoh Arena where Jamie Ashdown had a nightmare letting the ball roll past him in the 4th minute to start off Eastwood's double to give Coventry a comfortable 2-0 win over Portsmouth. Other results in the championship saw Leeds lose at home to Derby, and strugglers from last season Scunthorpe beat Reading away 2-1.
League One kicked off in earnest at lunchtime on Saturday, with two of the leagues bigger clubs from the South playing each other, Southampton hosting Plymouth. Southampton, clear favourites for the title were missing key players and lost 1-0 to a Summerfield goal, starting them on off on a slow start. Notts County, title winners just a few months ago were given a harsh introduction to life in League One playing Huddersfield, losing to them with Huddersfield dominating the game, showing Notts County fans that it will be a long hard season for them.
Dagenham and Redbridge had the pleasure of playing in Sheffield this weekend at Wednesday, 7 years ago a non league club, this was a big day for The Daggers, who were outclassed by their opponents looking to bounce back to the Championship, losing 2-0, and never looking threatining. Other results in League One saw Brighton beat last years play off finalists, Swindon Town 2-1 away from home. They were not alone in their away win, with MK Dons beating Walsall 2-1, with goals from Baldock and Woodards giving them the win.
League Two saw the arrival of Stevenage who having won the Blue Sq Premier last year, found their first game at home to Maccelsfield to be an expierence with Charlie Griffin scoring a late equaliser for the home side giving them a share of the spoils in a 2-2 draw. The other promoted club, Oxford United managed a credible 0-0 draw away to Burton Albion at The Pirelli Stadium, with Burton creating many chances but failing to put any away.
Meanwhile, on the south coast, Torquay managed to beat last seasons contenders, Northampton comfortably in the August sun 3-0, never looking challenged by the visitors at all. Adam Le Fondre got off the mark in his bid to be top scorer in League Two with a goal for Rotherham helping them on their way to a 2-1 home win against Lincoln City. Other results in the league saw Jake Robinson score the first hat trick of the new season as Shrewsbury came from 1 goal down at home to Bradford to win 3-1. Wycombe showed why they got promoted the season before last with a classy individual goal from Pittman helping them onto their way to a 2-0 win at home to Morecambe.
The first weekend of the season is over, and this week coming brings an international week, giving nations a chance to play an over glamourized friendly in front of fans still baying for blood after poor world cup performances (England and France, we're looking at you here really). Alongside the international games is the 1st round of the Carling Cup, which sees a south coast derby as Southampton play Bournemouth, with the victors hoping to draw a premiership side in round two. Stevenage host Portsmouth in the "glamour" tie of the round on Monday night on TV with Portsmouth running out of senior players already, this might be one game too many for them and Cotteril will be deciding between this and the league game against Reading on Saturday for his main priority for his players he still has at the club.
So we have the football season up and running at long last (Although too early some may say), and the first weekend of the next ten months has finally come to an end with Manchester United beating Chelsea in the Charity Shield this afternoon at Wembley.
The season officially began with Norwich hosting Watford on TV on Friday night, with Norwich having been promoted as champions, and playing in front of a large home crowd eager to see them back in the Championship, a home win was expected against favoured relegation candidates, Watford. However Watford had not read the script with them taking all three points in an entertaining 3-2 clash.
The majority of The Championship kicked off on Saturday afternoon with promotion hopefuls Nottingham Forest putting in a good shift before being cast aside by Burnley 1-0. Other potential promotion contenders McBoro lost 3-1 at home to Ipswich after going 1-0 up in the first half, and lost Willo Flood to an injury which sees him ruled out for a few months.
Newboys Millwall stunned the Bristol City faithful with a resounding 3-0 thumping that could have, and should have been more, had it not been for England international, David James in goal making some outstanding saves. Goalkeeping was also the crux of the matter at Ricoh Arena where Jamie Ashdown had a nightmare letting the ball roll past him in the 4th minute to start off Eastwood's double to give Coventry a comfortable 2-0 win over Portsmouth. Other results in the championship saw Leeds lose at home to Derby, and strugglers from last season Scunthorpe beat Reading away 2-1.
League One kicked off in earnest at lunchtime on Saturday, with two of the leagues bigger clubs from the South playing each other, Southampton hosting Plymouth. Southampton, clear favourites for the title were missing key players and lost 1-0 to a Summerfield goal, starting them on off on a slow start. Notts County, title winners just a few months ago were given a harsh introduction to life in League One playing Huddersfield, losing to them with Huddersfield dominating the game, showing Notts County fans that it will be a long hard season for them.
Dagenham and Redbridge had the pleasure of playing in Sheffield this weekend at Wednesday, 7 years ago a non league club, this was a big day for The Daggers, who were outclassed by their opponents looking to bounce back to the Championship, losing 2-0, and never looking threatining. Other results in League One saw Brighton beat last years play off finalists, Swindon Town 2-1 away from home. They were not alone in their away win, with MK Dons beating Walsall 2-1, with goals from Baldock and Woodards giving them the win.
League Two saw the arrival of Stevenage who having won the Blue Sq Premier last year, found their first game at home to Maccelsfield to be an expierence with Charlie Griffin scoring a late equaliser for the home side giving them a share of the spoils in a 2-2 draw. The other promoted club, Oxford United managed a credible 0-0 draw away to Burton Albion at The Pirelli Stadium, with Burton creating many chances but failing to put any away.
Meanwhile, on the south coast, Torquay managed to beat last seasons contenders, Northampton comfortably in the August sun 3-0, never looking challenged by the visitors at all. Adam Le Fondre got off the mark in his bid to be top scorer in League Two with a goal for Rotherham helping them on their way to a 2-1 home win against Lincoln City. Other results in the league saw Jake Robinson score the first hat trick of the new season as Shrewsbury came from 1 goal down at home to Bradford to win 3-1. Wycombe showed why they got promoted the season before last with a classy individual goal from Pittman helping them onto their way to a 2-0 win at home to Morecambe.The first weekend of the season is over, and this week coming brings an international week, giving nations a chance to play an over glamourized friendly in front of fans still baying for blood after poor world cup performances (England and France, we're looking at you here really). Alongside the international games is the 1st round of the Carling Cup, which sees a south coast derby as Southampton play Bournemouth, with the victors hoping to draw a premiership side in round two. Stevenage host Portsmouth in the "glamour" tie of the round on Monday night on TV with Portsmouth running out of senior players already, this might be one game too many for them and Cotteril will be deciding between this and the league game against Reading on Saturday for his main priority for his players he still has at the club.
Reading 1 - 2 Scunthorpe United
7th August 2010
Game #1
Match Attendance : 15914
Match Rating : ***
The wave of optimism regarding this season came crashing down around Reading fans today after losing at home to predicted strugglers Scunthorpe with the local radio dubbing today "balloon day" after the game.
The almighty pop happened for Reading in just the 9th minute when a defence splitting pass from the Scunthorpe right back played through to Jonathon Forte was met with a certain complacency by the Reading defence and once Griffin was beaten by Forte, he played the ball across the six yard box and after a cruel deflection coming off a Reading defender, Garry Thompson was there to burst Reading's bubble who had been on top and cruising before the goal went in.
The goal itself caused controversery with the linesman incorrectly calling offside before the referee for the day, Fred Graham, overruled him and let the goal stand, causing mass derision from both Reading players and fans alike who thought the goal had been chalked off.
It didn't take long for the Royals golden boy of the moment, Gylfi Sigurdsson, to make his mark on the new season with his first goal one he won't forget anytime soon. After a series of close calls for Scunthorpe keeper, Murphy, 15 minutes after the Iron had taken the lead, they were pegged back to square one after Sigurdsson picked the ball up about 30 yards from goal, rounded two players and promptly stuck the ball into the top corner to send Reading fans into raptures. The game kept up this fast pace action for the first half with Reading holding much of the ball, but not creating many clear cut chances before half time.
The second half started at a bright pace for Reading who came out fired up, winning corner after corner at the start of the second half. In a nasty incident however, Long clashed with Mirfie for the ball who appeared to be injured with a possible head injury, stretchered off he was replaced by Raynes. This didn't change the flow of the game with the ever present Jones heading everything away for Scunthorpe that Reading threw at them.
On the hour mark, the Iron showed Reading how corners should be done with Jones proving his head is useful in the opposition box as well with a great run into the box. Finding himself unmarked, he put a bullet header into the corner to put Scunthorpe into the lead which they would then hold onto for the rest of the game. Brian McDermott tried to change things up in the remaining half hour, with young striker Church coming on, and academy starlet Antonio playing upfront with him after Shane Long picked up a knock.
The best chance for Reading to get back into the game fell to Simon Church when the ball bobbled to him about 10 yards out, off balance he struck the ball, but his shot, with only ten minutes left on the clock was weak and easily stopped by Murphy leaving him regretting wasting his chance. Scunthorpe despite being run close a few more times managed to hold on for the three points and Nigel Adkins men have got off to a great start to the season.
Reading will hope to bounce back in the league with an away trip next up to recently relegated, and cash strapped Portsmouth who posted a 2-0 loss away to Coventry for their first game, only managing to name four subs in the process, with Steve Cotteril having a mountain to climb to keep Portsmouth in relative safety for the year it seems.
Scunthorpe go on next week to play the champions of League one from last season, Norwich, who lost the first game of the new Championship season 3-2 at home to Watford, so will be hoping to get their points tally off the ground and up and running, in what will be a battle for survival for the position in the Championship if they continue to lose key games to potential survival competitors such as Watford.
Game #1
Match Attendance : 15914
Match Rating : ***
The wave of optimism regarding this season came crashing down around Reading fans today after losing at home to predicted strugglers Scunthorpe with the local radio dubbing today "balloon day" after the game.
The almighty pop happened for Reading in just the 9th minute when a defence splitting pass from the Scunthorpe right back played through to Jonathon Forte was met with a certain complacency by the Reading defence and once Griffin was beaten by Forte, he played the ball across the six yard box and after a cruel deflection coming off a Reading defender, Garry Thompson was there to burst Reading's bubble who had been on top and cruising before the goal went in.
The goal itself caused controversery with the linesman incorrectly calling offside before the referee for the day, Fred Graham, overruled him and let the goal stand, causing mass derision from both Reading players and fans alike who thought the goal had been chalked off.
It didn't take long for the Royals golden boy of the moment, Gylfi Sigurdsson, to make his mark on the new season with his first goal one he won't forget anytime soon. After a series of close calls for Scunthorpe keeper, Murphy, 15 minutes after the Iron had taken the lead, they were pegged back to square one after Sigurdsson picked the ball up about 30 yards from goal, rounded two players and promptly stuck the ball into the top corner to send Reading fans into raptures. The game kept up this fast pace action for the first half with Reading holding much of the ball, but not creating many clear cut chances before half time.
The second half started at a bright pace for Reading who came out fired up, winning corner after corner at the start of the second half. In a nasty incident however, Long clashed with Mirfie for the ball who appeared to be injured with a possible head injury, stretchered off he was replaced by Raynes. This didn't change the flow of the game with the ever present Jones heading everything away for Scunthorpe that Reading threw at them.
On the hour mark, the Iron showed Reading how corners should be done with Jones proving his head is useful in the opposition box as well with a great run into the box. Finding himself unmarked, he put a bullet header into the corner to put Scunthorpe into the lead which they would then hold onto for the rest of the game. Brian McDermott tried to change things up in the remaining half hour, with young striker Church coming on, and academy starlet Antonio playing upfront with him after Shane Long picked up a knock.
The best chance for Reading to get back into the game fell to Simon Church when the ball bobbled to him about 10 yards out, off balance he struck the ball, but his shot, with only ten minutes left on the clock was weak and easily stopped by Murphy leaving him regretting wasting his chance. Scunthorpe despite being run close a few more times managed to hold on for the three points and Nigel Adkins men have got off to a great start to the season.
Reading will hope to bounce back in the league with an away trip next up to recently relegated, and cash strapped Portsmouth who posted a 2-0 loss away to Coventry for their first game, only managing to name four subs in the process, with Steve Cotteril having a mountain to climb to keep Portsmouth in relative safety for the year it seems.
Scunthorpe go on next week to play the champions of League one from last season, Norwich, who lost the first game of the new Championship season 3-2 at home to Watford, so will be hoping to get their points tally off the ground and up and running, in what will be a battle for survival for the position in the Championship if they continue to lose key games to potential survival competitors such as Watford.
Pre Season Welcome
Saturday 7th August
The start of a new season often brings around optimism for many teams, with everyone thinking that finally this can be their year. The Football League kicks off today (With the exception of Norwich V Watford, played early for the evil that is) with teams up and down the land kicking off on an even slate. With the three leagues all holding credible promotion candiates, the top contenders in each league are summed up below:
The Championship
Burnley - Having been relegated from the premiership last season, Burnley hold a strong squad still and have even been able to strengthen with the additions of Iwelumo and Wallace, from Wolves and Preston respectivley. This compares favourably to the other two relegated teams who have had major cut backs already this transfer window.
Middlesbrough - Boro have spent this summer bringing in may players from north of the border, giving the nickname "McBoro". Strachan has bought in stirker kris Boyd in the hope that he can provide the goals to push them back into the premiership. His expierence of playing at the top level for Scotland, and previously Rangers should prove useful in the coming season.
League One
Southampton - Undoubtedly the runaway favourites for the title, Alan Pardew has assembled a very strong squad for this league, and without the points deduction, they should be able to push on and gain promotion back to the Championship, with key players, Rickie Lambert, and Adam Lallana playing for the Saints they should prove tough to beat on goals scored, the test will be for their defence to hold out the whole season.
Huddersfield Town - Having last season made the playoffs, Huddersfield scored a lot of goals, espically at home. Having a good strike force however is backed up at the Galpharm by a great keeper in Alex Smithies who at the age of 20 is chasing down his 100th game for his hometown club already. With Novak, Roberts and Pilkington, they can expect to score heavily again in League one this season.
League Two
I won't try to pretend I know too much about league two. League two is most certainly my weakest league in England, following teams in the other two leagues makes it a lot easier to follow and for that I apologise. If I were looking at teams to get promoted, Rotherham with Le fondre up front will be worth a shout, so long as they can hold onto him. Bradford with Peter Taylor at the helm should also be up there come the end of the season.
Of course, there is always the long shots from each division who have the outside chance of making a run and managing to gain promotion, I have guessed at two of these from what I know about the teams and divisions, if you disagree, let me know who you think have a better shot at promotion!
Championship - Bristol City & Doncaster Rovers
League One - Brighton & Charlton
League Two - Burton Albion & Aldershot
This blog running this season will hopefully provide views that other outlets don't provide and that you cannot find elsewhere. If you enjoy, dislike or just want a chat about the blog, please don't hesitate to contact me through the comments section.
The start of a new season often brings around optimism for many teams, with everyone thinking that finally this can be their year. The Football League kicks off today (With the exception of Norwich V Watford, played early for the evil that is) with teams up and down the land kicking off on an even slate. With the three leagues all holding credible promotion candiates, the top contenders in each league are summed up below:
The Championship
Burnley - Having been relegated from the premiership last season, Burnley hold a strong squad still and have even been able to strengthen with the additions of Iwelumo and Wallace, from Wolves and Preston respectivley. This compares favourably to the other two relegated teams who have had major cut backs already this transfer window.
Middlesbrough - Boro have spent this summer bringing in may players from north of the border, giving the nickname "McBoro". Strachan has bought in stirker kris Boyd in the hope that he can provide the goals to push them back into the premiership. His expierence of playing at the top level for Scotland, and previously Rangers should prove useful in the coming season.
League One
Southampton - Undoubtedly the runaway favourites for the title, Alan Pardew has assembled a very strong squad for this league, and without the points deduction, they should be able to push on and gain promotion back to the Championship, with key players, Rickie Lambert, and Adam Lallana playing for the Saints they should prove tough to beat on goals scored, the test will be for their defence to hold out the whole season.
Huddersfield Town - Having last season made the playoffs, Huddersfield scored a lot of goals, espically at home. Having a good strike force however is backed up at the Galpharm by a great keeper in Alex Smithies who at the age of 20 is chasing down his 100th game for his hometown club already. With Novak, Roberts and Pilkington, they can expect to score heavily again in League one this season.
League Two
I won't try to pretend I know too much about league two. League two is most certainly my weakest league in England, following teams in the other two leagues makes it a lot easier to follow and for that I apologise. If I were looking at teams to get promoted, Rotherham with Le fondre up front will be worth a shout, so long as they can hold onto him. Bradford with Peter Taylor at the helm should also be up there come the end of the season.
Of course, there is always the long shots from each division who have the outside chance of making a run and managing to gain promotion, I have guessed at two of these from what I know about the teams and divisions, if you disagree, let me know who you think have a better shot at promotion!
Championship - Bristol City & Doncaster Rovers
League One - Brighton & Charlton
League Two - Burton Albion & Aldershot
This blog running this season will hopefully provide views that other outlets don't provide and that you cannot find elsewhere. If you enjoy, dislike or just want a chat about the blog, please don't hesitate to contact me through the comments section.
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