Premier League Preview: Team-by-Team guide

Following two weeks of back page headlines and pub conversations regarding minor sports such as Rowing, Judo and Equestrian, sporting normality shall be restored this weekend with the return of the Premier League. The greatest league in the world shall reclaim the limelight of Britain from the furore of the Olympics, for the next 206 weeks (Until Rio 2016.) Who shall be in the limelight is a different matter, many suspect financial muscle flexors City to dominate the league, although when Chelsea won the league in similar circumstances they were expected to dominate for many Olympic cycles to come. Chelsea retained their title once before losing it to United for three years without return. The Premier League is never that simple, the 2012/13 season will be no different; expect shocks.

Arsenal:

Last Season - 3rd. Struggled at the start of the season, but the goals of Van Persie kept them within touching distance of Champions League qualification. A strong end to the season saw them over haul a 12 point gap on North London rivals Tottenham for automatic qualification.

Ins and Outs - Juxtaposed to last season's transfer dealings, Arsene Wenger has acted quickly and spent considerable money on some of Europe's hottest prospects. Santi Cazorla, the most expensive signing, will increase the creative options in midfield. German international Lukas Podolski and Ligue 1 top scorer Olivier Giroud provide better quality, variety and goalscoring options to Arsenal's attack, and suitable replacements for the probable departure of club captain Van Persie.

Prediction - Always seem to prove the doubters wrong. 4th.

Aston Villa:

Last Season - 16th. Underachieved under their "blue-nose" manager, who has consequently been sacked. Bent failed to show his Premier League goalscoring prowess that had merited his £18 (rising to 24) million move. It was the poor quality of chances created and the defensive tactics employed by McLeish which also led to the lack of goals.

Ins and Outs - Lambert from Norwich is the most notable, Villa being at the top of summers managerial food chain. Since his arrival he has looked to strengthen in all areas making more than one venture in to the Erdevise. The biggest name of those ventures, Ron Vlaar, has replaced the ageing James Collins. After Collins' departure the net fee for Vlaar is just £0.7 million. Holman and El Ahmadi have also joined from AZ Alkmaar and Feyernoord respectively. Lowton has joined from Sheffield United to replace the departing Cuellar.

Prediction - Much more comfortable campaign than last year, potential for a cup run. 11th.

Chelsea:

Last Season - 6th. But that doesn't quite reflect arguably the greatest season in the clubs history to date. The most extraordinary season too; for almost exactly 8 months the season offered nothing but disappointment. But a brilliant turnaround against Napoli at a raucous Stamford Bridge sparked a remarkable cup run, beating Benfica, Barcelona and finally Bayern Munich in the Final (in Munich) to be crowned the Champions of Europe. The FA Cup triumph seemed comparable to a pre-season tournament victory in the context of the Champions League miracle, especially considering previous unfortunate events encountered in Europe.

Ins and Outs - Di Matteo, the interim manager forced Full-Time due to his incredible achievements. The other hero of the Champions League win, Didier Drogba left on a free after finally fulfilling the seemingly ever distant dream of European glory. Kalou and Bosingwa also left on a free. Chelsea did not let that night in Munich mask an extremely poor season, by their standards. They have splashed the cash in midfield, £32 million on Hazard, £25 million on Oscar and £7 million on Marin. They are also expected to bring in 2 or 3 more players.

Prediction - A more consistent season than last, but one which may end with no silverware to show for it. 2nd.

Everton:

Last Season - 7th. Yet again Moyes over achieves with a small transfer budget. As per usual they finished the season strongly and above arch rivals Liverpool. Astute January signings in Jelavic and Pienaar allowed for their good season. Jelavic's goals and Pienaar's assists will need to continue to emulate the performance of 11/12.

Ins and Outs - Pienaar has signed on a permanent deal. Following Rangers' turmoil, Everton have been quick to captalise snapping Naismith up on a free. Tim Cahill had left after a difficult 18 months on Merseyside. Meanwhile Rodwell has left for a fee of £15 million, Moyes may use this to reinvest in other positions, already having youngster Ross Barkley chomping at the bit for a first team regular place.

Prediction - They will undoubtedly over achieve again, a good start as well as a good finish may see them challenge Champions League qualification. 7th.

Fulham:

Last Season - 9th. A good season under Martin Jol has left expectations growing as potential candidates for Europe, similarly the number of quality teams all capable of competing in Europe is growing at an exponential rate. Fulham were reasonably quiet last season, a compliment for a club of their stature, as it suggests they were untroubled.

Ins and Outs - Petric on a free from Hamburg and Rodellaga ona free from Wigan go some way to replacing the void left by Johnson and Zamora up front. Jol may look to strengthen in midfield as Danny Murphy has left the club.

Prediction - Will be hard to keep up to the standards set from last season, don't get your hopes up. 13th

Liverpool:

Last Season - 8th. Similar to Chelsea (on a slightly different scale) Liverpool's Carling Cup triumph, if it can be described as that, and an FA Cup final did not distort the minds of the Anfield hierarchy from the reality of a poor season in the Premier League. They proved this by bravely dismissing icon Kenny Dalgleish.

Ins and Outs - Brendan Rogers, Dalgleish's successor, has acted quickly in strengthening the squad. He has brought in Joe Allen for £15 Million from former club Swansea in a hope he can help to replicate the same footballing philosophy Rogers flaunted in south Wales. Fabio Borini, another former Swansea player, has joined from Roma for £11 million, he is likely to partner Suarez up front, leaving Carroll's future in doubt. Bellamy, Aquilani and Rodriguez head a long list of departures, suggesting more incomings in the near future.

Prediction - An improvement, but little to show for it. More money needed for Champions League qualification. 6th.

Manchester City:

Last Season - 1st. A result few would have expected before last season, Mancini surprised everyone in gelling a team of talented individuals. Although, as City fans ironically brag, it wasn't until 93:20 that the title was finally won. It was a fabulous way to snatch the title from Manchester United and prove they are more than just 'noisy neighbours.' Nevertheless I am sure every City fan and Mancini especially will want the title wrapped well before then this time around.

Ins and Outs - Rodwell is the only signing so far, more speculation has been regarding departures but they have not come to fruition. Mancini admitted he was "frustrated" with the transfer situation. More signings should be expected but no bank breaking deals this summer.

Prediction - Their strength in depth is immense, England may not be all they are looking to conquer this season. 1st.

Manchester United:

Last Season - 2nd. They narrowly missed out on the title, narrowly is an understatement, but still failed to pick up any silverware, a disappointing season by that account. Group Stage elimination from the Champions League would have hurt as much as the title defeat to neighbours City. United will be keen to rescind the set backs suffered last year. The partnership of Welbeck and Rooney will excite United fans, it has the precedents to be of the same calibre as Cole and Yorke. They must continue in similar fashion for success at Old Trafford this term.

Ins and Outs - Kagawa appears to be good business at £12 million after he scored an impressive 17 goals in a German League and Cup double winning Dortmund side. League 2 sensation Nick Powell has also been signed, but he seems one for the future, £4 million could prove to be a great price though. Berbatov is yet to leave, but it would be surprising to see him stay at the club. Trusted midfielder and big-game player, Ji Sung Park has left the club to join QPR.

Prediction - Could finally slip out of their previously pre-assigned top two finish. A second trophy-less season is unlikely though. 3rd.

Newcastle United:

Last Season - 5th. Another of the surprise teams, the Toon made a late charge for Champions League football, but fell short at the final hurdle. The goals of Senegales striker Demba Ba up until the Africa Cup of Nations, and the goals of compatriot Papiss Cisse after the tournament led Newcastle in to a brilliant position coming in to the final weeks, they will consider themselves unlucky.

Ins and Outs - Vernon Anita has joined from the Netherlands to add another option to an already strong midfield. France international Matieu Debuchy looked set to join at one stage, but for differences in valuation, the deal seems to have broken down. Although the Lille right back would be a good addition to the squad and certainly state their intentions for the coming season.

Prediction - A good attempt at breaking in to the Champions League initially, eventually failing to sustain a challenge. 9th.

Norwich City:

Last Season - 12th. They by far surpassed expectations under Paul Lambert, finishing in a highly respectable position for a team tipped to go straight back down. Their style of football was similar to one seen in the Eighties; get the ball out wide and cross it in with quality. A very effective style as well, with Morrison and Holt up front they scored a vast number of headed goals, and were always a threat.

Ins and Outs - Chris Hughton has replaced the Villa bound Paul Lambert at the helm. Having failed to keep a clean sheet for much of the season it is the arrivals of experienced centre-backs Turner and Whittaker that will excite fans most. Snodgrass has also joined, to add to the Leeds United contingent at Norwich. Striker Grant Holt, who was tipped for Euro 2012 but narrowly missed out even after scoring 15 vital goals for the Canaries, is set to be their biggest transfer dealing this summer. Despite handing in a transfer request in June, Holt has now agreed to stay and will be at the forefront of any success this season.

Prediction - A tougher season in store, more of a relegation battle (but that is more of a compliment for their 11/12 results.) Avoiding infamous "Let's be 'Avin You" rallying cries from Delia Smth will be on top of  Hughton's priority list. It could be a fine line between that and being the latest team to join the exclusive "second-season-syndrome" club. 17th.

QPR:

Last Season - 17th. A season that saw them stay up by the skin of their teeth. Despite the big moves to the club they we unable to put together a good run of results, even under the new management of Hughes. More spending will see expectations grow, a near mid-table finish is a bear minimum.

Ins and Outs - QPR have acted quickly in strengthening their squad with the arrivals Green, Nelsen, Diakite and Johnson through the spine of the side. Green has replaced Paddy Kenny who has gone to Leeds United to reunite with former manager Neil Warnock. Fabio has joined on loan from Manchester United, Park has made the same move but on a permanent deal. Whilst much sought after winger Junior Hoilett has joined from Blackburn.

Prediction - They still lack Premier League quality in some areas, but will expect to stay up regardless. Their defence is a key issue, if they can keep out goals they should be fine but do not expect any fireworks. 15th.

Reading:

Last Season - Championship Winners. After being well off the pace in the early months of the season it took an astonishing unbeaten run from Brian McDermott's side to eventually win them the league.

Ins and Outs - Under new ownership Reading have been able to strengthen the squad with some big signings. Guthrie and Shorey have plenty of Premier League experience, whilst Pavel Pogrebnyak scored 6 goals in the Premier League after joining Fulham on loan in January. Mariappa, one of the Championships most solid defenders has joined from Watford.

Prediction - Could top the promoted clubs mini league, although the champions often fail to do so. Nevertheless, they should have enough quality to avoid the drop. 12th.

Southampton: 

Last Season - Championship Runner-Ups. The Saints joined a small group of teams who have been able to achieve back to back promotions in to the Premier League, and will now hope to avoid the drop.

Ins and Outs - Young right back Nathaniel Clyne has joined from Crystal Palace. Southampton also spent £7 million on Jay Rodriguez from Championship side Burnley. They will want to strengthen further before the window is shut.

Prediction - A season that may look to offer no joy, they may not have strengthened quite enough. 19th.

Stoke City:

Last Season - 14th. A solid season which saw Stoke safe for another year, quite remarkably the season included no goals direct from a throw-in, as they seem to have shaken off the "rugby team" tag.

Ins and Outs - Stoke have had little activity in the transfer market, they were linked with Michael Owen but he is yet to sign. Although they have net spent £60 million in the last three years and will want to avoid spending more if possible.

Prediction - Their time might have come, an unexpected relegation may be in store. 18th.

Sunderland:

Last Season - 13th. Martin O'Neil saved a team flirting with relegation and went on to secure a mid-table finish. They also mounted a good cup challenge. They failed to find the net too often and will need to correct that this year.

Ins and Outs - Turner has left the club with Cuellar his replacement. Sunderland are still in the hunt for a striker as Bendtner's loan has expired.

Prediction - The motivational and tactical attributes of O'Neil were clear to see last season and with him in charge they will be fine again this year. 10th.

Swansea:

Last Season - 11th. Brendan Rogers' side were the 5th best passers in Europe last season. They played attractive football and kept the ball on the ground. They were unfairly compared to Blackpool; after a strong start many thought they would be found out towards the end of the season - this never happened. They have had some forced changes at the club but will look to build on the success of last season.

Ins and Outs - Manager Brendan Rogers has left to join Liverpool, taking midfielder Joe Allen with him for a healthy £15 million sum. Michael Laudrup has replaced Rogers, and Allen with the loan of De Guzman from second tier Spanish side Villarreal. Sigurdsson, who scored 7 and assisted 5 in his short loan spell at the club has not been signed on a permanent deal, Laudrup has brought in Michu, who incidentally scored 17 goals last season from Rayo Vallecano's midfield, to replace him. Chico, a defender has also been signed.

Prediction - Laudrup is an experienced manage who will continue the attractive football of Swansea. Another successful season, although this may just be a stepping stone for Laudrup. 14th.

Tottenham Hotspur:

Last Season - 4th. As Jermain Defoe slid in at the back post, it seemed in that instance Harry Redknapp may be on the way to achieving one of the greatest upsets in Premier League history. Defoe was inches away from getting a touch on the ball and beating Manchester City and putting them level on points at the top of the league. Manchester City went down the other end, scored and ultimately destroyed those hopes of glory. The result saw Spurs slide down the table, 2-0 up at Arsenal ended 5-2 epitomised their decline. They finished 4th, but to add insult to injury they missed out on Champions League football as Chelsea shocked Europe. Harry Redknapp was sacked at the end of the season, in consequence.

Ins and Outs - Redknapp out, AVB in. The man who almost ruined Chelsea's Champions League hopes, but by getting sacked he allowed Di Matteo to save the 3-1 deficit to Napoli and to go on to win the Champions League and qualify them for next season. Their qualification was instead of Spurs and ultimately condemned Spurs to Europa League football. So yes, Spurs fans, AVB was at fault for missing out on Champions League football. On the tranfer front: Corluka, Kranjcar and Pienaar have all been sold by the club, Modric looks likely to follow. Gylfi Sigurdsson has been signed to be a potential replacement for Modric. Jan Vertonghen, the highly rated centre back has been signed and will more than replace injury ridden, non trainer, now retired, and former club captain Ledley King. Spurs need to sign a Striker as Adebayor's loan has yet been made permanent.

Prediction - A mediocre season in store, they have made few additions and the loss of Redknapp may be felt in the dressing room. Will be expected to challenge for the Champions League, but may not have enough goals. 8th.

West Brom:

Last Season - 10th. New England manager Roy Hodgson did a superb job at West Brom, as they avoided relegation and the headlines, finishing in a highly respectable position.

Ins and Outs - Steve Clarke has replaced Roy Hodgson, and many see this as a risk due to Clarke's lack of managerial experience. Although he has been the assistant under the "Special One," Jose Mourninho and Kenny Dalgleish - invaluable experience. Clarke has signed Rosenberg and brought Lukaku in on loan to increase his options up front.

Prediction - They may just have enough to avoid the drop, but will be no where near as safe as last season. 16th.

West Ham:

Last Season - Championship 3rd - Play-Off Winners. They were expected to bounce straight back, it is never that easy and despite not playing "West Ham style" football (whatever that is) Big Sam Allardyce was extremely successful in achieving promotion, all be it via the play-offs.

Ins and Outs - Jussi Jaaskaleinen has replaced Robert Green. Mohammed Diame has signed on a free from Wigan, a coup considering Liverpool were interested at one stage. Modibo Maiga, Newcastle target in January has also joined from Sochaux. George McCartney and James Collins will strengthen the defence. Whilst French international Alou Diarra has joined from Marseilles and will be a classy addition to the midfield.

Prediction - They will be a good Premier League team, and should comfortably stay up with the strength in depth at their disposal. 13th.

Wigan:

Last Season - 15th. Yet again Martinez's men defied the odds by staying up in the Premier League. For much of the season they were sure to go down, but managed to produce another great escape.

Ins and Outs - Ramis and Kone have joined from La Liga, Arsenal youngster Ryo Miyachi has joined on a season long loan. Rodallega and Diame have left on free transfers, whilst Moses is expected to join Chelsea in a deal worth £10 million.

Prediction - It will be hard for them to produce enough quality to stay up for yet another season, They will undoubtedly be among the favourites to go down. 20th.

Thank you for reading. I hope I have given you a good insight in to the upcoming Premier League season.

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Weekend Preview: New Years (31/12/11)

Its the Last weekend of the year, a great year of Football it has been, but only the half way stage for the Premier League season. And there's plenty more in store. The title race is wide open with arguably 5 or 3 teams in it.

Liverpool v Newcastle: 3-1 was the final score in this one, Gerrard marking his long awaited return by scoring the winner. Newcastle took the lead with their goal eventually given as an Agger own goal. But goals from Bellamy either side of half-time gave Liverpool a deserving win. Additionally Martin Skrtel's brilliant goal-line clearance from Demba Ba's effort was key in moving Liverpool level on points with Chelsea in 4th.

Man Utd v Blackburn: A draw for birthday boy Sir Alex's side will see Man United sit top of the league through another year. A draw would be a bit of a party spoiler though, United will have to beat the leagues struggling sides to win the league -  Fergie would be the first one to tell you. My Prediction: United win! They have got problems at the back but that didn't matter against Wigan and I think they'll be just as ruthless against Blackburn.

Arsenal v QPR: Thierry Henry isn't available for this match but I'm sure the Arsenal fans will be singing his name. They need to bounce back from their draw to Wolves to keep the pressure up on Chelsea and Liverpool in that fight for the Champions League places. QPR need anything to turn their season back around, they are on a free fall to the relegation zone. Prediction: Arsenal win! And RVP to brake Shearers record with a hat-trick.

Bolton v Wolves: Both sides find themselves in the bottom four and consequently will know they have to beat the sides around them to stay in this division. Prediction: Draw! I can't split these two, both have dodgy defences, both struggle to score goals.

Chelsea v Aston Villa: If its anything like last year it should be a classic! Chelsea will hope not to concede 3 again this year. They seem to have assured their defensive options with the imminent signing of Villa product Gary Cahill, the deal isn't completed and Cahill will play his last game for Bolton today. Prediction: Chelsea win! Three draws on the bounce for the Blues may come to an end today!

Norwich v Fulham: Two mid table sides come face to face, the more direct Norwich versus the mini Spurs, Fulham who attempt to play attractive football but ultimately aren't as good as Spurs. Fulham ought to be safe but Norwich will till have doubts; Blackpool were 4 points ahead of them at the same stage last year with 25 points and still got relegated. Prediction: Fulham. Ruiz and Dempsey are top draw and could be the undoing of Paul Lambert's side.

Stoke v Wigan: Wigan have yet again shocked teams all round the country and will want to do the same to the quality Stoke side that could potentially earn another year in Europe through their league position rather than a cup run. Prediction: Draw! Vital points for Martinez and his men, points in games such as these will surely see them stay up.

Swansea v Spurs: Brendan Rodgers described Bale and Modric as "perfect players" but could they come back to haunt him. A win for Swansea could take them as high as 9th and only 18 points away from the 40 point safety mark. Spurs on the other hand will be up to 41 points and 49 points from 20 games from there on in will take them to Mancini's 90 point mark. Prediction: Spurs! Can't think of many who will be able to stop Spurs and unfortunately Spurs will keep the ball better than Swansea.

West Brom v Everton: These sides kick off the year of Premier League football. They are two of the leagues steady sides come face to face at the Hawthorns. Both should be safe, both mid-table. Prediction: Everton! Sooner or later they will start making that 7th placed push!

Sunderland v Man City: Man City will probably be in second place by the time this match comes along so a three points is imperative to keep themselves in pole position going in to the New Year and the second half of the season. A win for Sunderland and they will be back to mid-table where they belong with the quality they have in their squad. Prediction: Man City win! Need to rack up points against these lower clubs in order to win the league.

Happy New Year everyone! Keep following...

Weekend Preview (09/12/2011)

After an extraordinary Matchday 6 in the Champions League, both Manchester clubs will look forward to getting back to the routine of Premier League. Although United and City will soon have a different routine to get used to; Thursday to Sunday. Similarly the fans will have to get used to watching Channel 5 Europa League coverage on a followed by watching MOTD2 late on a Sunday. They join Stoke in the next round of the cup, whereas Spurs, Fulham, Birmingham and Celtic all face uphill tasks to meet the 'Champions League losers.' Chelsea and Arsenal are England's only representatives in Europe's elite competition and go in to next Friday's draw still both dreaming of winning their first Champions League trophy. The biggest game of the weekend features one of those in the Champions League and one in the Europa League.

Chelsea v Man City: Chelsea will look to take their unstable momentum in to arguably the biggest game of the season so far. Villas Boas believes that with failure on Monday City will "have one less contender" in the Premier League title race. Despite Stamford Bridge being less of a fortress in recent times Chelsea will still believe they are favourites against the Premier Leagues only unbeaten side. My prediction: Draw! With the hurt of Wednesday still prominent in the minds of the City players I think a point will be much appreciated away at Chelsea

Arsenal v Everton: Think back a couple of months and Arsenal are the most unlikely of the bare two Premier League representatives still in the Champions League. And if it wasn't for some, what at the time seemed like panic buys, the Arsenal side may not have even made the Europa League. One of these crucial, deadline day signings was Arteta who plays his former club for the first time since his arrival. My prediction: Arsenal win! The form of Arsenal and in particular Van Persie should prove too much for an Everton side in transition.

Bolton v Aston Villa: Bolton have been struggling of late as a result of some unfortunate decisions. They will look to beat a Villa side who themselves are yet to set the league alight. My Prediction: Draw. Bolton know a win will take them outside of the relegation zone but will settle for a draw as they look to get their season back on track.

Liverpool v QPR: Following Liverpool's disappointing result on Monday night, they look to get their challenge for 4th spot back on track. Whereas QPR know with a win they will be all but half way to the ellusive 40 point mark of survival. My prediction: Liverpool win! Liverpool seem overdue a win at Anfield this season and the quality of the side should overcome an experienced QPR side.

Man Utd v Wolves: United's week went from bad to worse with the news Vidic will be out for the rest of the season, I expect Jonny Evans to replace him as Jones continues in Midfield. I think if United want to succeed this season only a Ferdinand-Jones partnership could see that happening. Wolves travel on the back of a good win last Sunday. My Prediction: United win! But only just as United to scrape the 3 points.

Norwich v Newcastle: Newcastle travel to Carrow Road following a controversial defeat to Chelsea last weekend. They risk facing back-to-back defeats as Norwich have been looking dangerous recently and in Steve Morison they have guaranteed goals. My Prediction: Norwich win! With the injuries suffered last week Newcastle will look for somebody to fill in at centre back.

Swansea v Fulham: This may be the surprise match of the weekend as both sides play with attacking flair and like to keep the ball on the ground. Dyer, Sinclair, Graham, Routledge take on Ruiz, Dembele, Duff and Zamora in the battle of some threatening front 4s. My Prediction: Draw! It will suit both sides as they will look to build on their mid-table positions as the crucial festive period gets closer.

West Brom v Wigan: Come the end of the season this may well have been seen as a bit of a six pointer, but I expect Wigan to go down and West Brom to stay up. The difference in the two sides being goal scorers - Long and Odemwingie will always score goals in this division, Di Santo and Rodallega not so certain. My Prediction: Draw! Wigan surely cannot lose again...

Sunderland v Blackburn: Martin O'Neil has never managed his first game at home, he has only ever got 3 points in his first match in charge. Sunderland fans will hope 3 more points goes O'Neil's way. Blackburn know a win will take them above Sunderland and out of the relegation zone. My Prediction: Sunderland win! If they can stop Blackburn "feeding the Yak" then they have the quality to beat Blackburn but need to score themselves from somewhere.

Stoke v Spurs: Many people have said if they could have a season ticket anywhere they would have it at White Hart Lane. But Spurs' real test will come away from home, especially at places like Stoke, where their true title credentials will be shown. My Prediction: Spurs win! If they keep on winning people will have to take notice of them as they are capable of being mounting a title challenge.

Monthly Round-Up (November 2011)

The travesty of Gary Speed's unexpected death has put everything in to perspective for football fans across the world. Just like the saying "it only takes a second to score a goal" the same can be said for the event which occurred early on Sunday morning, the 27/11/11 is a date few will forget. Not only has a great footballer been lost, not only has a potentially astonishing coach been lost but an unbelievable man has been lost. Our thoughts are with the Speed family and all the people that knew of Gary.

The tributes have rolled in for Speed and he more than anyone would want the football to continue... and that it did with some great games on display. The last game of the month was Crystal Palace's 2-1 victory, after extra time, at Old Trafford and now face Cardiff City in the Semi-Finals of the Carling Cup. Cardiff united after an emotional few days to knock Premier League strugglers Blackburn out. Meaning one Championship side will be facing a tough task in the final against either Manchester City or Liverpool, two top Premier League sides.

Man City sent out a star quality side to make sure of victory versus Arsenal, Aguero getting the only goal at the Emirates. Whereas Liverpool travelled to Stamford Bridge for the second time in 9 days winning on both occasions. Another nasty November for Chelsea looks to ruin another season, starting with defeat on Halloween weekend to arch rivals Arsenal the month didn't get any better, a late snatch and grab from Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League summing up their indifferent month. Many have called for the head of AVB, some wonder why the head of a Carlo Ancelotti is nowhere to be called.

Villas-Boas is yet to "goas" as the Sun recently described the possibility of his departure. Although, Steve Bruce has become the first Premier Division manager to get the axe this season being sacked 3 days before the 'Black Cats' face a possible "six pointer" against fellow felines Wolves. Incidentally Ancellotti is one of the contenders to take over at The Stadium of Light. Nevertheless Martin O'Neil or Mark Hughes seem more likely.

AVB is under much scrutiny largely due to Chelsea's form in the Champions League and like many other English clubs, are finding the group stages of European football a tough task. Only Arsenal seem secure, and have turned their season around in the past month. Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham, Fulham, Birmingham and Stoke are unsure of places in the knock-out stage.  The 'chicken and egg' conundrum springs to mind when pondering the reasons for England's poor form in Europe; is it the tough and straining and such high quality football suffered each week in the EPL taking it out of the teams and hindering them in Europe or otherwise is the lack of quality in the Premier League resulting in clubs not having the quality to cope against some of Europe's top names. In my opinion, and I very much hope, its the former as so many clubs are "tough places to go" and "a real threat" that the effort put in on a Saturday disadvantages those on a Wednesday. Despite this I am confident the majority of English clubs will qualify as most still have it in their hands entering 'Matchday 6'

Despite what a thrilling month November has been for Football fans the overriding memory will be that of the Gary Speed tragedy. Hopefully December will avoid the bitter taste this saddening event has caused the world of Football. The fans will be able celebrate the festive period with all the football they need. I for one get excited when I see the Sky Sports Christmas advert at the start of December and those Sky Sports snowmen scoring diving headers left, right and centre signifying that there is a LOT of Football on the way.

Saturday Preview (01/10/2011)

Derby weekends are always memorable at the end of the season. And I hope this weekend is similar.

Everton v Liverpool: The first derby is the early kick-off between two sides who have shared 19 red cards between them in the premier league! I wouldn't be surprised if it was any different! In a "nitty-gritty" game My Prediction is a draw.

Aston Villa v Wigan: Both sides have had good starts to the season but both have tricky fixtures coming up. Therefore a result today is vital! My prediction is Villa win.

Blackburn v Man City: A mutiny in the Mancini players camp will go toe to toe with a protest from Steve Kean's fans in a battle of the uprising! Could see a similar event to that of when Arsenal visited Ewood! Watch out for a possible upset! My Prediction is a draw.

Man Utd v Norwich: Two unconvincing matches for Utd may all be changed today! Could be tough though as Norwich have been on top form recently. My Prediction is a Man U win!

Sunderland v West Brom: Sunderland and West Brom have both encountered difficult starts to the season and both will look to turn it around here. My Prediction Sunderland win!

Wolves v Newcastle: At Villa last week Newcastle looked top quality and if it wasnt for Shay Given they would have won comfortably! Cabaye and co will look to carry on from their recent performances! My Prediction Newcastle Win!

The Weekend Preview (24/9/11)

Another mouth watering Premier League matchday - well if its anywhere as eventful as last week then we are in for another exciting weekend! Last week just had everything; goals, saves, cards, and of course misses! Will be interesting to see how much a week can change things...

Man City v Everton: The early kick off of the day sees a strong Man City side with no European hangover take on an Everton side who, as pressure mounts, seem stronger every week! Despite Everton winning 7 of their last 8 versus Man City, I still feel, with Aguero on top form, they ought not to drop points in consecutive weeks! My Prediction Man City win!


Arsenal v Bolton: An Arsenal side on the rocks and a Bolton side who haven't had the easiest of starts come head to head at the Emirates. Both teams will be desperate for a win - not only for 3 points but to give them an attempted kick start for their Premier League campaign. At times Arsenal looked awesome last week but as soon as they lost the ball they reminded me of the "typical League 2" joke often used on Soccer AM - just feel at home they may sneak the win. My prediction Arsenal Win!


Chelsea v Swansea: I think following last weekends performance many Chelsea fans will be quietly confident about the season ahead! Despite the scoreline, Chelsea fan's were singing "We're gunna win the League, you're never gunna believe us" last week towards the end of the game! Also I am sure they'll be right behind Torres just hoping he can turn it all round in a week! As for Swansea, Sinclair returns to his former club and will be looking to make a similar impact as to the one in the 3-0 victory last weekend! My Prediction Chelsea win!


Liverpool v Wolves: Liverpool and Wolves have both recently encountered heavy defeats and will look to bounce back immediately! Nevertheless despite Liverpool's supposed "title challenging side" and Wolves' relegation destined team I don't see much in the game! My prediction Draw!


Newcastle v Blackburn: Two promising performances last week for these two! Blackburn with a fabulous win at home to Arsenal and Newcastle with a good point away at Villa! But the defensive frailties of Blackburn would worry me more than their offensive potential shown on Saturday! For Newcastle Yohann Cabaye impressed me immensly last weekend. In mid February, when I last saw him, he was powerful and controlling and scoring a screamer for Lille (despite Given and his change of club - very similar to last week!) My Prediction Newcastle win!


West Brom v Fulham: Both these two squads seem strong enough to stay in the top flight of English football, but for some reason I have an inclination one of the two may go down and will at least struggle! Which one? I'm not too sure yet but the outcome of this game may help me decide. I can't split the two teams! My prediction Draw!

Wigan v Spurs: In recent history between these two sides the game had been extremely unpredictable - dare I predict a similar match! Going by Sod's law I predict a predictable outcome. Although looking at the form of both sides I am unsure of the outcome! Wigan and Spurs seem so prolific! Therefore a goal-fest is assumed - the away side may just knick it on prolificness! My Prediction Tottenham Win!

Stoke City v Man United: The same match last year was remembered for the awesome arrival of Javier Hernandez and his audacious header, using the back of his 'Chicaritto' Will the Little Pea be at it again? I have a feeling, similar to last year it will be an extremely tough game for United! And as Villas-Boas said after picking a point up at the Brittania - "everyone else still has to go there" or something along those lines! He may be proven right here! My Prediction Draw!

QPR v Aston Villa: Villa were booed off in midweek at Home to Bolton - and I can't see that having a positive effect on the side! Especially considering they travel to a QPR side no where short of confidence, let alone Premier League experience! The pace of SWP and the prowess of Joey Barton will prove too much for a Villa side in reconstruction. My Prediction QPR win!

Norwich v Sunderland: The Monday night football returns to Carrow Road - infamous in those parts for Delia Smith's enthusiastic outburst! Nevertheless they will be pleased to see it return, but face a strong Sunderland side who without their £14million Striker still scored 4 last Sunday! My prediction Draw!

The Sunday Preview

A huge 'Super Sunday' is in prospect with some potential season changing matches! First up is at White Heart Lane
Spurs v Liverpool: Great result for Tottenham last weekend with Parker and Adebayor gelling instantly in to the side! The looked a much stronger outfit than from the 5-1 defeat to City. Liverpool on the other hand showed their frailty away from home last week at Stoke! If SP and EA play well it may well be hard for Liverpool. My Prediction a Spurs win!
Fulham v Man City: Fulham and City both shared 1-1 draws at home this week in Europe, but with City's strength in depth, an extra day of rest and the class of some of their players I know who the bookies will be backing! My Prediction Man City Win!
Stoke v Sunderland: Sunderland have lost their record signing Asamoah Gyan this week and will they find a goalscorer to replace him instantly! Stoke, in utter contrast, have strikers in abundance - Jerome, Crouch, Jones to name a few! My prediction is a Draw!
Man United v Chelsea: The big game of the weekend sees the two dominant forces of the Premier League come head to head, with United in blistering form and Chelsea grounding out results it seems to be roles reversed from last season! My Prediction is a Draw!

The Saturday Preview!

A huge week in the Premier League this week with some crucial matches and following the first European Matchday it will be interesting to see which teams (all 7) cope the best but only Arsenal play on Saturday so first we look at the other PL teams all playing on Saturday.

Blackburn v Arsenal: is the early kick off and following their two recent results they will take great confidence in to this match, although their draw at Dortmund will disappoint them slightly after lasting 88 minutes. Blackburn need a result and will feel its the best time to play Arsenal! My Prediction is an Arsenal win!
Aston Villa v Newcastle: Bent hasn't quite shown his £24m worth this season but I'm sure that is about to change. Newcastle themselves held off a very impressive QPR on Monday and will be looking to build on that. My Prediction is an Aston Villa win!
Bolton v Norwich: Bolton, after a tough run of games will be desperate to get a win versus a penalty-giving-diseased Norwich side. Norwich, will also look to get something out of this game as they have looked very impressive in previous games. My Prediction is a draw!
Everton v Wigan: After losing Arteta and gaining Drenthe and Stracquilasi (hope that's right) on deadline day Everton look a stronger squad and capable of another good season! Wigan also look stronger and that might slip out of the relegation zone come May. My Prediction is an Everton Win!
Swansea v West Brom: Swansea looking for their first goal to arrive with their first win in the Premier League and today might just be the day! WBA will look to continue after a hard-fought victory versus Norwich. My Prediction: Swansea win!
Wolves v QPR: Wolves have had a great start to the season and their fans will be hoping for better against new boys QPR! QPR, on the other hand, will be hoping for another away win after an impressive performance on Monday at home to Newcastle. My Prediction QPR win!

That rounds off all the Saturday matches! Check back later for my Sunday Preview - involving some mouth watering games such as Man U v Chelsea and Spurs v Liverpool.
Rob Baney

PFA Awards 2010

On Sunday night, Wayne Rooney won the PFA Players' Player of the Year award whilst James Milner picked up Young Players' Player. Rooney is the top scorer in the Premier League with 26 goals and 5 assists, Cesc Fabregas was second behind Rooney with 15 goals and 15 assists from Midfield. Didier Drogba was third and the statistics suggest he arguably deserved to win the award with 26 goals and an amazing 13 assists from the Forward position. It isn't as if Drogba cashes in on these 7 goal wins Chelsea have so frequently, in fact he didn't play in the 7-1 victories versus Sunderland and Aston Villa and only picked up 2 assists against Stoke in the 7-0 drubbing on Sunday. But as an Englishman I am happy to see Rooney win the main award in this World Cup year and Milner another Englishman picking up Young Players' Player.

The PFA Divisional Team of the Year - Premier League looked like this: Joe Hart, Branislav Ivanovic, Patrice Evra, Thomas Vermaelen, Richard Dunne, Cesc Fabregas, Darren Fletcher, Antonio Valencia, James Milner, Wayne Rooney, Didier Drogba.

This selection of players without a doubt flattered the Manchester United team.

Patrice Evra has had an outstanding season, probably his best yet, but Chelsea's Ashley Cole has scored 3 goals to Evra's 0 but Evra has 7 assists to only Cole's 3. Despite this Cole has played over 1100 minutes less than Evra still being involved in 11 clean sheets. This selection isn't a clear mistake and is very debatable.

Although the selection of Darren Fletcher seems fair, Fletcher has scored a mere 3 goals and had 6 assists this season but after being dubbed as the "Big Game player" by the press. This "Big Game player" did manage 2 goals in the Manchester derby and picked up assists versus Liverpool and Spurs. Apart from that he, like most United players, has relied on Rooney this Year. The man who should unquestionably be in the Squad is Frank Lampard. He has scored an unbelievable 21 goals and 15 assists from Midfield. These 21 goals come from a player "who hasn't been his best this year" "who hasn't scored as many goals this year" as many 'top' pundits had stated earlier in the season. Incidently Lampard has never scored above 13 goals in the League and only once has he got 16 assists in the 04/05 season one more assist than this season so far.

Valencia is another debatable selection especially since Malouda, voted Players' Player at Chelsea recently and who arguably due to a good run of form towards the end of the season should have been in the squad with 12 goals and 8 assists in 2123 minutes. Valencia on the other hand picked up 5 goals and 9 assists in 2600 minutes.

Chelsea may feel hard done by in the Team of the Year, but at the end of the season it might be them with last laugh, needing to win their last two games to officially be named the best team of 2009/2010 season.

A crucial week awaits after a disappointing defeat for Chelsea

Chelsea let lead slip to just one point after 2-1 defeat away at Spurs, earlier in the day, Manchester United moved to within one point of leaders Chelsea after beating rivals Manchester City who gave Spurs the chance to move into 4th. That chance they took. At the start of the day the door for the final Champions League spot looked wide open, whilst the door for the Premiership was almost shut: by the end of the day the hinges had swung, the title race was now wide open whereas the door for 4th spot had swung in the opposite direction needing one last push. That final push is to come on Saturday, a pivotal day for both Manchester City who lie in fifth and Spurs 2 points above them in 4th. Spurs head to Old Trafford to play United in the days early kick off and in the evening kick off Manchester City travel to the Emirates Stadium facing Arsenal, who to have hopes of the Premiership themselves. If Spurs can beat United they will have beaten the top 3 clubs consecutively, if they manage this incredible feat this could prove the end of United's title challenge, and with the form Spurs are in who is going to bet against them. Chelsea play in the 4pm kick off on Sunday at home to Stoke, in which many would expect a Chelsea victory, especially after Stoke had a rare defeat at home to Bolton today. The only thing that's for definite is that it shall undoubtedly be a thrilling end to the Season