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...

Boxing Day Preview 26/12/2011

First and foremost, Merry Christmas! But, just cause it's Christmas doesn't mean i'm going to stop blogging. After all these matches are just as, if not more, important that another group of premier league matches. As any manager will tell you that the festive season in late December is crucial to determining their final standing in the league come May. The Boxing Day match especially has thrown up many a surprise over the years and expect some today

Chelsea v Fulham: After beating top of the league, Man City, Chelsea seemed to be back in the title race: two games and two draws later and they are considered big outsiders in the title race. Hence why picking up maximum points in the next 3 games is imperative to maintaining their Premier League challenge. On current form Fulham ought to be an easy game for Chelsea. Prediction: Chelsea! Not by much though. Despite the Cottagers leaking 5 at home to United on Wednesday the game against Chelsea will be a closer match; derby games are never easy.

Bolton v Newcastle: Bolton will be encouraged by their victory over Blackburn which gives them a huge boost in the fight for survival! Newcastle however have suffered some poor results of late - coinciding with a few injuries in key places. Prediction: Draw! Will be a good result for both sides who will look to push on for the second half of the season!

Liverpool v Blackburn: Both sides have struggled recently, especially Blackburn, who seem to heading for the drop following defeat to Bolton. Liverpool need a win to keep their Champions League hopes alive after dropping points to Wigan last Wednesday. Prediction: Liverpool! Not the end of the world for Rovers but they need to start picking points up soon. P.S. Steve Kean does not deserve the abuse he is receiving...

Man United v Wigan: 2 points from 2 games against 2 of the top teams in the Prem. Another point here and  Wigan could seriously look towards another year staving off probable relegation. United have, as expected, bounced back strong from their Champions League disappointments! Prediction: Man U! Undoubtedly favourites for this match and ought not to disappoint, and for me United are still favourites for the title! 2 points is nothing...

Sunderland v Everton: Sunderland, like I've said previously, have the quality to score goals but have lacked a player to score the majority of those goals i.e. Darren Bent/Asamoah Gyan. Similar can be said for Everton, the only striker scoring for them is the player they loaned to Blackburn this season; the Yak. Prediction: Sunderland! Not going to be a thriller by any means, O'Neil's men may just knick it.

West Brom v Man City: Mancini has publicly expressed the need to "remain top of the tree" over the Christmas period. Considering in three games time he loses the Toure duo to the African Cup of Nations, they must take advantage of their full strength squad. West Brom have won their last two and Odemwingie is back to form - he's the sort of player who could hurt City. Prediction: Man City! Would stay 2 points clear but lots of games to come!


Stoke  v Aston Villa: Stoke have won 4 of their last 5 games but were played off the park by City before Christmas! Marc Albrighton was the 20,000th Premier League goalscorer but Villa couldn't prevent a 2-1 loss to Arsenal. Nevertheless they dominated the game, possession and shots statistics favoured Villa, who will be encouraged going to the Britannia. Prediction: Villa! Stoke away is one of the hardest games possible, yet Villa are overdue a win and one here would be a huge result.

The Premier League is renowned for its end to end football and consistently brilliant matches throwing up shocks left, right and centre! The festive period itself is renowned for all the same characteristics. So my advice to you neutrals is: sit back and enjoy. My advice to you fans: well there isn't much... just hope it goes your way!

Premier League preview 20/12/11

What happens at Christmas stays at Christmas is the general trend for Premier League positions, especially regarding the bottom of the table. Only West Brom have been bottom at Christmas and survived so Coyle and Kean know how important their upcoming 'six pointer' is. Similar can be said for the top and fights for the Title and the Champions League places may well be decided in the coming games. The festive period is crucial in every season; four games in the space of 17 days can make or break a season. The first of those games as important as the last, like in a major tournament, it is imperative not to lose your first game.

Wolves v Norwich:
Mick McCarthy's side sit one point and one place above the relegation zone and take on a Norwich side where a win will put them closer to the Champions League places than the bottom three. Norwich find themselves in a similar position to Blackpool did last year but look like a ready made Premier League side. Prediction: Wolves win! But only providing they keep Holt and Morrison quiet - defence will be key to Wolves' success.


Blackburn v Bolton:
The game Owen Coyle described "the whole world will be watching" is one which, as I alluded to earlier, may   determine the fate of one of these two clubs. Prediction: Draw! Won't particularly help either club but will mean, as history suggests, Bolton will be relegated and Blackburn could follow suit. Although admittedly a cold Tuesday night in Blackburn doesn't sound great this match, as Sky are describing, has all the ingredients to be somewhat of a 'Christmas Cracker.'


Aston Villa v Arsenal:
Following Super Sunday defeats for both sides the importance of this match immediately increases. Villa Park is an extremely tough place to go, especially for the top clubs, as the fans love the chance of an upset. McLeish will always be under pressure as Villa boss; the fans see him as a "blue nose" when they lose but a hero when they win. He'll be hoping he is seen as a hero over Christmas. Prediction: Draw! Villa are always one to take points off the top teams and expect that trend to continue for years to come.

Man City v Stoke:
Two of the in form sides come face to face at the Etihad on Wednesday, yet use completely contrasting playing styles; the fluent and dominant City versus the long direct Stoke. What they do have in common is their physical presence on the pitch; Huth, Walters and Crouch against Kompany, Yaya Toure and Balotelli should prove to be one of City's biggest threats this season. Prediction: Man City! Just... should be a tight game!


Newcastle v West Brom:
Newcastle have suffered a slight blip of late, and will want to get back to their form from the start of the season. Whereas West Brom will want to keep up the form that has taken them within the top half of the table. Prediction: Newcastle! Coloccini is back from injury and should help Newcastle get back to form.


Swansea v Everton:
Swansea have been passing established Premier League sides off the park since their introduction to the top flight (just ask Wolves) and will look to do similar to one of the most established clubs around! Prediction: Everton! If they do win they will jump above Swansea in the table and look to consolidating a top half finish.

Fulham v Man United:
United travel to West London for the second time in four days, and will want to pick up their second win keeping up the pressure on Man City. Fulham, however, will also hope for a second win on the bounce, and that Bryan Ruiz can continue his good form and score another high quality 'lob.' Ruiz looks a real talent and if the flair continues expect a big club like Man United to be in for him. Prediction: Draw! And maybe even a Ruiz special?


QPR v Sunderland:
Martin O'Neil's Sunderland are still struggling for goals and are still making a lot of chances. Even with a managerial change you can't create a proven goalscorer without the transfer window - Pavlyuchenko, the man who consigned them to defeat on Sunday, would be an unbelievable yet realistic signing. Thankfully for O'Neil the window is not far away, and nor, if reports are to be believed, is Gyan from returning from loan. QPR will too be delving in to the transfer market but will hope some good results over the festive period will help attract some big names. Prediction: Sunderland win! They have looked good all season but maybe someone can step up and score for the Black Cats


Wigan v Liverpool:
Wigan have had some surprising results in recent weeks and despite having a squad which would struggle to make the top half in the Championship, Roberto Martinez has continued to keep Wigan alive and kicking in the Premier League this season. Liverpool have hit the woodwork the most times this season and will hope it doesn't prove to be their undoing in what may be an uncomfortable night in the North West. Prediction: Liverpool! Grit and determination needed, ought to be installed in the players with a Scot in charge.


Spurs v Chelsea:
A crunch game to say the least, people forget that this is a derby, after Arsenal v Spurs, the biggest London derby possible. Like most derbies, Religion has its role to play but it will be even bigger if both these teams continue to succeed... I barely need to tell you what a win can do for these two - 'Title' springs to mind. Prediction: Chelsea! I went draw when they played City, and was wrong so I've got to back the blues this time - big game players may be the difference

We will know who is almost certain to go down after this week of games but also we will know who is to join the list of Brian Deane, Chris Sutton, Les Ferdinand and Moritz Volz. These names make up the list of 1st, 5,000th, 10,000th and 15,000th goal scorer respectively in the Premier League. And soon we will know who is to join the list by scoring the 20,000th Premier League goal!

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.

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 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!