A lot of the media are reacting to AvB’s rant by saying that they ‘were swift to point out the folly of not letting this clearly very able and emerging young coach last beyond the first few months of his tenure’ (taken from Phil McNulty's piece after Tuesday night's win over Valencia). But it was the media themselves who were questioning whether or not Abramovich was going to retain the coach!
AvB has already revealed himself to be more human than previous coaches at Stamford Bridge. Sure there’s arrogance, and a degree of ‘nerdiness’ (sic) but there has also been worry and passion on display. With Mourinho, it was mostly arrogance – save for medals thrown into the crowd – Ancelloti seemed mostly cold/detached to me – and it was hard to get much of a read from Scolari, Hiddink or Grant due to their short tenure at Stamford Bridge.
AvB has had to endure more than any of these managers and in a much shorter space of time. He has taken over a successful team from a famous and popular manager (who many in the media and in the crowd had huge sympathy with when he was turfed out at the end of last season). His buyout price was high and is well known. He has many well loved and experienced players in his team, who have been 1st choice since they joined the club and are close in age to the manager himself. He has been saddled with an expensive ‘flop’ (no names necessary). He has not faced media scrutiny and the pressure of a competitive league like this before. So it is not entirely surprising to see the mask slip a little.
He was humble/honest enough to admit after Tuesday night’s game to admit that Chelsea got the result they wanted but not by playing how he would like them to play. This suggests that he still believes that Chelsea need to change and will continue along the path we’ve seen over the past few months – where results have not matched expectations. Chelsea are in a position where there’s only a small amount of margin for error – Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs all look like they are credible challengers for 3rd and 4th place (I’ll assume for now that both Manchester teams will continue to occupy 1st and 2nd for now). Development is important, but results are vital.
I think it’s a good thing that the young man appears to be developing a chip in his shoulder. Maybe it’s earlier than normal, but look at the Fergusons and the Wengers – they have faced down perceived adversity in a similar fashion to the bristling AvB the other night. And, having watched clips from the press conference, I honestly didn’t think the behaviour was as sensational as that claimed by journalists on Twitter. But developing a siege mentality is only a good idea if you can lift that siege at some point.
The win over Valenica was vital, but AvB does not have a ‘signature win’ since he came to Stamford Bridge. The biggest opportunity was the away game against Man Utd back in October, but Chelsea fluffed their lines that day. Sure they have played (and lost to) Arsenal and Liverpool since – games they were expected to win. But Monday night represents another opportunity to make his mark. Man City has been the team to beat this season. And the 4th Estate will be watching closer than usual after Tuesday’s outburst. What better way to cause a real stir by taking out the champions elect?
Sunday 11 December 2011
Tuesday 22 November 2011
What I thought after the defeat to Liverpool 20/11/2011
It seems ludicrous to suggest that the coach is under pressure - but the owner has form. He does seem sure of himself - or at least that it will cost too much to fire him. A dangerous assumption. Let's be honest - the quality/competitive nature of the Premier League is much higher than that of the Liga Zon Sagres or even the Europa League for that matter (where would Braga feature in a Premier League table I wonder?). Note that this is a slight on the quality in those competitions, not a pat on the back for the Premier League.
Drogba looks a spent force, certainly as a starter against the likes of Liverpool. Whither Lukaku - who looks at least as physical as Drogba but would no doubt present something of an unknown to Premier League defenders. He showed again ts Arsenal that he relishes the physical side of the game, which looks like exactly what we needed against Liverpool.
Speaking of physical - it was evident that we were 2nd best in this respect in all areas of the pitch on Sunday - a few years ago there were very few (any?) teams who could match us in this regard. Age, injury, and distractions have diminished the powers of Drogba, Essien and Terry, and Carvalho and Ballack have been dealt away. Ramires is wiry and energetic, but Mata is too easily pushed around at times. 2 guys I can think of who would compete well in the Premier League would be Romeu and Lukaku - surely they need to get more game time?
Drogba looks a spent force, certainly as a starter against the likes of Liverpool. Whither Lukaku - who looks at least as physical as Drogba but would no doubt present something of an unknown to Premier League defenders. He showed again ts Arsenal that he relishes the physical side of the game, which looks like exactly what we needed against Liverpool.
Speaking of physical - it was evident that we were 2nd best in this respect in all areas of the pitch on Sunday - a few years ago there were very few (any?) teams who could match us in this regard. Age, injury, and distractions have diminished the powers of Drogba, Essien and Terry, and Carvalho and Ballack have been dealt away. Ramires is wiry and energetic, but Mata is too easily pushed around at times. 2 guys I can think of who would compete well in the Premier League would be Romeu and Lukaku - surely they need to get more game time?
Sunday 18 September 2011
I don't like cricket. Or cricket scores.
When all is said and done, I prefer my team to win games 1-0 or 2-1 than by the odd goal in 7 or 9. And I never like losing. Still, Chelsea played their part in an entertaining and open game, and even in defeat there were signs that point to an intriguing and encouraging future at Stamford Bridge.
I didn't expect Chelsea to win. Indeed, I feared slightly for them based going to Old Trafford given what I'd seen from both teams so far this season. My fear was somewhat justified - Chelsea's defence (and I use the word defence in the wider sense of the word, not just the back 4) was pretty poor for much of the game. The game was crying out for Mikel to play in a screening role. And I'm sorry, but to me, John Terry ishttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif waning - if for no other reason than he doesn't seem to have the organisational ability that your captain and number 1 centre back should have. As well as that, Michael Cox points out here that Chelsea's passing out of defence was seriously deficient to that displayed by the Man Utd centre backs - my view that either Alex or Luiz should start is reinforced by this stat. The next position I would target in the transfer market is right full back - Bosingwa just isn't good enough defending or attacking to justify his position in the starting XI in my mind. And I wonder about Chelsea's eagerness to sign Alvaro Perreira - was this to cover the left side of midfield or as a replacement for Ashley Cole?
I don't mean to dwell on the past - but we never looked this ragged under the Special One. There's been too many games now when we've looked defensively suspect - Sunderland and Aston Villa at the Bridge last season come to mind quickly - and ok, the line was probably right for Man Utd's 1st goal today and we should have got the offside decision, but how often did Man Utd look like scoring aside from that? And, as I wrote yesterday, we've conceded to some pretty average teams. Clean sheets need to become a habit again.
Again, I ask the question - what is Frank Lampard's role in this team. Of the 3 that started in midfield, Meireles provides the creativity, Ramires provides the energy - what does Lampard bring to the table? His goal threat is considerably less than it was, and he doesn't have the range of passing or defensive qualities to sit deep. He needs to re-invent himself to remain relevant.
It was also a rude awakening to the Premier League for Juan Mata who was too often not willing/able/aware enough to work back when Chelsea lost the ball. I have no doubt that he will be an excellent signing, but he needs to pull his weight when Chelsea don't have the ball!
As for Fernando Torres...
1. He finally showed what he is capable of when the ball is put in front of him (a 'vertical ball' as AvB would say) - it was an excellent finish and hopefully a sign of things to come (more on that later of course...)
2. I wonder about his choice to square for Ramires in the 1st half. Many would laud his unselfishness, but I want my number 1 striker to be selfish. Would a more confident Torres have taken the chance himself?
3. Yes, his miss towards the end of the game was shocking - it's a great pity his goal didn't come after this rather than before it, and came at a key moment in the game. I can only hope that he takes the positives with him from this game.
Finally, yes there were decisions that went against Chelsea today, but hey, these things seem to even themselves out, e.g. Rooney missed the generously given penalty. If we'd taken our chances (Ramires, Torres), we could have come away with a point. But for a change, I have a 'glass half full' outlook. We created a bunch of chances. Fernando Torres scored 1 and could have had a hat-trick. AvB made a bold decision at half-time that by and large worked. We are only 2 months or so into a project that will hopefully lead to more than a Premier League title. The future is bright. The future is Blue.
I didn't expect Chelsea to win. Indeed, I feared slightly for them based going to Old Trafford given what I'd seen from both teams so far this season. My fear was somewhat justified - Chelsea's defence (and I use the word defence in the wider sense of the word, not just the back 4) was pretty poor for much of the game. The game was crying out for Mikel to play in a screening role. And I'm sorry, but to me, John Terry ishttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif waning - if for no other reason than he doesn't seem to have the organisational ability that your captain and number 1 centre back should have. As well as that, Michael Cox points out here that Chelsea's passing out of defence was seriously deficient to that displayed by the Man Utd centre backs - my view that either Alex or Luiz should start is reinforced by this stat. The next position I would target in the transfer market is right full back - Bosingwa just isn't good enough defending or attacking to justify his position in the starting XI in my mind. And I wonder about Chelsea's eagerness to sign Alvaro Perreira - was this to cover the left side of midfield or as a replacement for Ashley Cole?
I don't mean to dwell on the past - but we never looked this ragged under the Special One. There's been too many games now when we've looked defensively suspect - Sunderland and Aston Villa at the Bridge last season come to mind quickly - and ok, the line was probably right for Man Utd's 1st goal today and we should have got the offside decision, but how often did Man Utd look like scoring aside from that? And, as I wrote yesterday, we've conceded to some pretty average teams. Clean sheets need to become a habit again.
Again, I ask the question - what is Frank Lampard's role in this team. Of the 3 that started in midfield, Meireles provides the creativity, Ramires provides the energy - what does Lampard bring to the table? His goal threat is considerably less than it was, and he doesn't have the range of passing or defensive qualities to sit deep. He needs to re-invent himself to remain relevant.
It was also a rude awakening to the Premier League for Juan Mata who was too often not willing/able/aware enough to work back when Chelsea lost the ball. I have no doubt that he will be an excellent signing, but he needs to pull his weight when Chelsea don't have the ball!
As for Fernando Torres...
1. He finally showed what he is capable of when the ball is put in front of him (a 'vertical ball' as AvB would say) - it was an excellent finish and hopefully a sign of things to come (more on that later of course...)
2. I wonder about his choice to square for Ramires in the 1st half. Many would laud his unselfishness, but I want my number 1 striker to be selfish. Would a more confident Torres have taken the chance himself?
3. Yes, his miss towards the end of the game was shocking - it's a great pity his goal didn't come after this rather than before it, and came at a key moment in the game. I can only hope that he takes the positives with him from this game.
Finally, yes there were decisions that went against Chelsea today, but hey, these things seem to even themselves out, e.g. Rooney missed the generously given penalty. If we'd taken our chances (Ramires, Torres), we could have come away with a point. But for a change, I have a 'glass half full' outlook. We created a bunch of chances. Fernando Torres scored 1 and could have had a hat-trick. AvB made a bold decision at half-time that by and large worked. We are only 2 months or so into a project that will hopefully lead to more than a Premier League title. The future is bright. The future is Blue.
Saturday 17 September 2011
Man Utd v Chelsea Preview
So, Andre Vilas Boas (AvB) takes his 'new' Chelsea team to Old Trafford on Sunday looking for a watershed victory to really kick start his tenure at Stamford Bridge. The start so far has been solid but relatively unimpressive. It looks like change will be a slow process, and to be fair, why should it be any other way, given that this team finished 2nd last year and won it all the year before.
Man Utd rightly start as favourites, and I look at the game in terms of hope rather than expectation. Man Utd have been scoring for fun, and Chelsea have conceded to West Brom, Norwich and Sunderland. I can't see Chelsea shipping 8 or even 5 to Man Utd, but their abilty to score along with Chelsea's propensity to concede to pretty avarage teams concerns me.
But, Man Utd's defence is a strange mix of new and old and not so good at the moment, and Chelsea will have their chances I'm sure. Who starts in the middle of the front 3 will be interesting - it looks as if Drogba is certainly out, Anelka got the start against Sunderland last week, and Torres played against Leverkusen in midweek. Of the 2, I guess I'd have to go for Torres tomorrow - but I was much more optimistic about Torres' goalscoring abaility before the Old Trafford game last April than I am for tomorrow's game, and he was pretty subdued that day.
In saying that, Meireles and Mata look like good signings and just the sort of players that might create the sort of chances Torres needs to thrive. And I can't fault Torres' attitude in general - he played his part on Wednesday night, but I wonder would he have squared that ball if it were anyone other than Mata waiting?
So, Sturridge (who has just the sort of spark Chelsea have needed since they sent him on loan) last season looks certain to occupy the right side of the front 3, with Mata on the left. In midfield, I see Ramires and Meireles starting, with Mikel and Lampard likely to fill the remaining spot. Given it's an away game, I wonder if AvB would opt for Mikel? It would be interesting if Frank Lampard were to be left out for such a big game. On form, Ramires and Meireles deserve their spots and while Mikel has many critics, he is a very steady player, and will happily sit deep allowing those around him to play with more freedom. Lampard's role in the team is no longer clear to me I'm afraid.
At the back, it would be a huge shock if John Terry does not come back in. Given the form of Ashley Young, I'd be inclined to start Ivanovic at right back. This would leave Alex and David Luiz to fill the remainig centre back spot. Luiz of course was probably at fault for Hernandez' early opener in the April game, and seem to come in for unneecessarily harsh and public abuse from the then manager, Ancellotti. He returned to the side in midweek and scored a good goal and played some nice football, but was guilty of 2 reckless fouls that could have seen him sent off. Whether he is truly a centre back remains to be seen. So I would go for Alex - who a lot of people have written off after an average enough display against West Brom. But, I don't think he's a bad player, and maybe the time out has given him a chance to get back his focus. In my view, he was often the best defender behind Ivanovic at times last year.
For Man Utd, there aren't too many difficult choices, although goalkeeper could be an interesting one. Not that Alex Ferguson will entertain such questions. Their front 2 of Rooney and Hernandez and wingmen Young and Nani could cause Chelsea nightmares. Their weak link is probably the centre of midfield, where Chelsea will likely outnumber them in both numbers and quality. But Man Utd will probably move the ball quickly and expect their front players to work back and disrupt Chelsea posession (this could be a huge issue it both Mikel and Lampard play as both can be ponderous in possession these days) and so Chelsea's numerical advantage in that area may count for nothing.
There could be 2 wildcards for Chelsea. One is the defensive minded midfielder Oriel Romeu, who got a run out against Sunderland last weekend and performed steadily in limited action. The other more interesting option for AvB is Romelu Lukaku who could fill the 'No. 9' role - I'd like to see him up against Jonny Evans and giving David De Gea something to think about under the odd high ball. But, in line with the seeming evolution rather than revolution approach at Stamford Bridge, I suspect that a substutute appearance is the most either youngster can expect.
Given Man City's ordinary enough display during the week, a positive result for Chelsea in tomorrow's game could make many hastily re-think their 'only 2 teams can win it' proclomations of recent weeks. I'm not for a moment suggesting that Chelsea should be ranked ahead or Man Utd or Man City, but there's a lot of talent on the pitch and (potentially) on the sideline. I think they will be there or thereabouts come the end of the season. But I don't expect them to win tomorrow.
Follow me on Twitter @CiaranMcMonagle
Man Utd rightly start as favourites, and I look at the game in terms of hope rather than expectation. Man Utd have been scoring for fun, and Chelsea have conceded to West Brom, Norwich and Sunderland. I can't see Chelsea shipping 8 or even 5 to Man Utd, but their abilty to score along with Chelsea's propensity to concede to pretty avarage teams concerns me.
But, Man Utd's defence is a strange mix of new and old and not so good at the moment, and Chelsea will have their chances I'm sure. Who starts in the middle of the front 3 will be interesting - it looks as if Drogba is certainly out, Anelka got the start against Sunderland last week, and Torres played against Leverkusen in midweek. Of the 2, I guess I'd have to go for Torres tomorrow - but I was much more optimistic about Torres' goalscoring abaility before the Old Trafford game last April than I am for tomorrow's game, and he was pretty subdued that day.
In saying that, Meireles and Mata look like good signings and just the sort of players that might create the sort of chances Torres needs to thrive. And I can't fault Torres' attitude in general - he played his part on Wednesday night, but I wonder would he have squared that ball if it were anyone other than Mata waiting?
So, Sturridge (who has just the sort of spark Chelsea have needed since they sent him on loan) last season looks certain to occupy the right side of the front 3, with Mata on the left. In midfield, I see Ramires and Meireles starting, with Mikel and Lampard likely to fill the remaining spot. Given it's an away game, I wonder if AvB would opt for Mikel? It would be interesting if Frank Lampard were to be left out for such a big game. On form, Ramires and Meireles deserve their spots and while Mikel has many critics, he is a very steady player, and will happily sit deep allowing those around him to play with more freedom. Lampard's role in the team is no longer clear to me I'm afraid.
At the back, it would be a huge shock if John Terry does not come back in. Given the form of Ashley Young, I'd be inclined to start Ivanovic at right back. This would leave Alex and David Luiz to fill the remainig centre back spot. Luiz of course was probably at fault for Hernandez' early opener in the April game, and seem to come in for unneecessarily harsh and public abuse from the then manager, Ancellotti. He returned to the side in midweek and scored a good goal and played some nice football, but was guilty of 2 reckless fouls that could have seen him sent off. Whether he is truly a centre back remains to be seen. So I would go for Alex - who a lot of people have written off after an average enough display against West Brom. But, I don't think he's a bad player, and maybe the time out has given him a chance to get back his focus. In my view, he was often the best defender behind Ivanovic at times last year.
For Man Utd, there aren't too many difficult choices, although goalkeeper could be an interesting one. Not that Alex Ferguson will entertain such questions. Their front 2 of Rooney and Hernandez and wingmen Young and Nani could cause Chelsea nightmares. Their weak link is probably the centre of midfield, where Chelsea will likely outnumber them in both numbers and quality. But Man Utd will probably move the ball quickly and expect their front players to work back and disrupt Chelsea posession (this could be a huge issue it both Mikel and Lampard play as both can be ponderous in possession these days) and so Chelsea's numerical advantage in that area may count for nothing.
There could be 2 wildcards for Chelsea. One is the defensive minded midfielder Oriel Romeu, who got a run out against Sunderland last weekend and performed steadily in limited action. The other more interesting option for AvB is Romelu Lukaku who could fill the 'No. 9' role - I'd like to see him up against Jonny Evans and giving David De Gea something to think about under the odd high ball. But, in line with the seeming evolution rather than revolution approach at Stamford Bridge, I suspect that a substutute appearance is the most either youngster can expect.
Given Man City's ordinary enough display during the week, a positive result for Chelsea in tomorrow's game could make many hastily re-think their 'only 2 teams can win it' proclomations of recent weeks. I'm not for a moment suggesting that Chelsea should be ranked ahead or Man Utd or Man City, but there's a lot of talent on the pitch and (potentially) on the sideline. I think they will be there or thereabouts come the end of the season. But I don't expect them to win tomorrow.
Follow me on Twitter @CiaranMcMonagle
Sunday 14 August 2011
The God Delusion
So on Sunday, the Andre Vilas Boas (I’m going to take liberties and refer to him as ‘AvB’ from here on) era begins in earnest at Stoke. Other than the absent Michael Essien, I expect it to be as you were for Chelsea under Carlo Ancelotti. After all, none of the 3 summer signings are expected to feature and line-ups used in pre-season suggests that the same players will be deployed in the same positions as they were last season. All of which leads me to believe that AvB really believes his own hype.
To be fair, both Josh McEachran and Danny Sturridge have seen game time in pre-season. McEachran saw very limited action under Ancelotti and while Sturridge did make a few appearances, he was of course loaned out after the acquisition of Fernando Torres and scored goals for fun at Bolton while Torres drew blanks. Sturridge is suspended to start the season, so I guess we’ll have to wait a while to see if he figures in AvB’s plans.
I’ll admit to seeing little of AvB in action, except for last season’s Europa League final, which I was able to attend in person. His Porto side were clearly technically superior to Braga and contained all the star power, yet the manner of their victory was far from convincing and the style of play most unsatisfactory for a neutral like me. Much of it reminded me of watching Chelsea under the doleful Italian! Of course I know of the statistics from Porto’s season – all the goals scored – but I remember watching Chelsea 6 goals a game at the start of last season, but at the same time being largely unimpressed with the style of Chelsea’s play. Yes of course results are everything, but ultimately Chelsea’s season was not defined by how they fared against West Brom and Wigan. It came down to performances against the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United, where they lacked the ideas and creativity to break down higher quality opposition.
Chelsea’s problems seemed to me to stem from 3 areas last season – an aging squad, a lack of creativity, players who didn’t respond to the manager, or a manger who lost his appetite for the game. The squad issue has only been partially addressed – how often Romeu or Lukaku actually play remains to be seen (Lukaku could very well be loaned out), the lack of creativity could be solved by AvB, but I still think he needs to sign someone like Modric if things are to change dramatically from last season. As to whether the players will respond to him or not, that will be interesting – sure Porto had some stars, but no one in the league of Drogba, Torres, Cole, Lampard or Terry. Can AvB’s methodical approach inspire them to heights they failed to reach last season? Let’s assume that he still has an appetite for the game!
Anyway, I am being harsh – despite all that has been written, the guy has not managed a game that matters at Chelsea at yet. So he needs time. Will his patron give him time? Judging by the signings Chelsea have made this summer, it appears that they are trying to build for the future rather than sign quick fixes. Strange, given the moves they made in the last transfer window, but maybe Financial Fair Play is weighing on their mind? He’s a young manager, he’s trained under some of the best, including the original ‘Special One’, he’s won trophies, and he’s likely to be just a big a hit with the media as Ancelotti (who it seemed could do no wrong in the eyes of most scribes). I’m happy to give him time – I just hope his employer feels the same way.
To be fair, both Josh McEachran and Danny Sturridge have seen game time in pre-season. McEachran saw very limited action under Ancelotti and while Sturridge did make a few appearances, he was of course loaned out after the acquisition of Fernando Torres and scored goals for fun at Bolton while Torres drew blanks. Sturridge is suspended to start the season, so I guess we’ll have to wait a while to see if he figures in AvB’s plans.
I’ll admit to seeing little of AvB in action, except for last season’s Europa League final, which I was able to attend in person. His Porto side were clearly technically superior to Braga and contained all the star power, yet the manner of their victory was far from convincing and the style of play most unsatisfactory for a neutral like me. Much of it reminded me of watching Chelsea under the doleful Italian! Of course I know of the statistics from Porto’s season – all the goals scored – but I remember watching Chelsea 6 goals a game at the start of last season, but at the same time being largely unimpressed with the style of Chelsea’s play. Yes of course results are everything, but ultimately Chelsea’s season was not defined by how they fared against West Brom and Wigan. It came down to performances against the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United, where they lacked the ideas and creativity to break down higher quality opposition.
Chelsea’s problems seemed to me to stem from 3 areas last season – an aging squad, a lack of creativity, players who didn’t respond to the manager, or a manger who lost his appetite for the game. The squad issue has only been partially addressed – how often Romeu or Lukaku actually play remains to be seen (Lukaku could very well be loaned out), the lack of creativity could be solved by AvB, but I still think he needs to sign someone like Modric if things are to change dramatically from last season. As to whether the players will respond to him or not, that will be interesting – sure Porto had some stars, but no one in the league of Drogba, Torres, Cole, Lampard or Terry. Can AvB’s methodical approach inspire them to heights they failed to reach last season? Let’s assume that he still has an appetite for the game!
Anyway, I am being harsh – despite all that has been written, the guy has not managed a game that matters at Chelsea at yet. So he needs time. Will his patron give him time? Judging by the signings Chelsea have made this summer, it appears that they are trying to build for the future rather than sign quick fixes. Strange, given the moves they made in the last transfer window, but maybe Financial Fair Play is weighing on their mind? He’s a young manager, he’s trained under some of the best, including the original ‘Special One’, he’s won trophies, and he’s likely to be just a big a hit with the media as Ancelotti (who it seemed could do no wrong in the eyes of most scribes). I’m happy to give him time – I just hope his employer feels the same way.
Saturday 13 August 2011
Our First Podcast! The Guff Report Premier League Preview 2011-12
Here it is!
Guff Report Premier League Preview
All comments welcome. Please share with others if you think it's worth it.
Guff Report Premier League Preview
All comments welcome. Please share with others if you think it's worth it.
Thursday 11 August 2011
Premier League Preview 2011/12
Arsenal
You really have to question the competence of the decision-makers at Arsenal if the stories about the Juan Mata failed bid are true. Fabergas looks like he’s gone and Nasri may not be far behind. Sure there will be funds, but with less than 3 weeks left in the transfer window, the pressure will be on to bring in big name replacements. Or so you would think – the only name being floated around at the moment seems to be Scott Dann. Gervinho will probably be a success, Oxlade-Chamberlain has not played at a level higher than League 1 until now, so we’ll have to wait and see how he steps up in the Premier League. This could be the the season where Arsenal drop out of the Top 4. I’m sure their fans are frustrated, heck, they sort of frustrate me at times as well.
Aston Villa
What is the plan at Villa? Spending big money on Darren Bent last season seemed to signal ambition, but then selling his 2 putative providers in chief seems contradictory, although denying Ashley Young a move to Manchester United was probably going to be a difficult position to maintain in the short-term, while Liverpool’s offer for Stewart Downing appears to represent good business for Villa, especially when they can turn around and buy Charles N’Zogbia for half the money. Fans patience will be very thin this season, especially in light of the decision to appoint the man who has just overseen the relegation of their fiercest rivals.
Blackburn Rovers
David Goodwillie? This is what the Venky’s money is bringing to Blackburn? Where’s Kaka et al? Losing Phil Jones will hurt, and losing Chris Samba could be fatal. No better than mid table, and possible relegation contenders, but the fact that there are probably poorer teams out there mean that they might hang on.
Bolton
A quiet enough summer at the Reebok, where keeping Gary Cahill and getting Stuart Holden back from injury could go a long way towards defining their season. They haven’t had the best of luck so far this summer – Tyrone Mears and the Korean Lee Chung-Yong both look like missing significant time due to both suffering broken legs in pre-season. A team that will struggle to break into the Top 8, but should find it relatively comfortable to remain in mid table.
Chelsea
Is essentially the same squad that looked tired and unimaginative last season really the one to do better this season? Is Fernando Torres really finished or just not getting the kind of service on which he thrives? How much time will Andre Villas-Boas be given to win a Premier League and Champions League title? So many questions that look like taking a while to answer. Chelsea’s signings so far this summer almost hint at building for the future – in contrast with the big money signings of David Luiz and Torres in January which seemed to suggest a desire to win big, quickly. As things stand, I don’t see them overhauling Man Utd this season, and Man City are only going to get stronger.
Everton
Moving forward by standing still? It’s hard to see this team achieving more than say a Europa League or Cup Final berth – some good players for sure, but the squad is thin, especially up front, where Louis Saha is dangerous when fit, but alas that is never a given. Holding on to Baines, Jagielka, Fellani and Arteta is perhaps a more valuable coup than any signings David Moyes could hope to make.
Fulham
I guess the position taken over Mark Hughes shows that disloyalty won’t be tolerated, which is fine in one sense, but it also smacks to me of cutting off your nose to spite your face in another. Hughes seemed like a decent manager - although Martin Jol could turn out to be a decent replacement. Fulham have a pretty solid defence anchored by Hangelaand and Schwarzer, and some decent striking options in attack and from deeper. Assuming the players take to Jol relatively quickly, they could have a relatively comfortable season, but the Europa League via the Fair Play table is probably likely to be the zenith of their ambitions again.
Liverpool
Big spenders but value for money doesn’t seem to be a concern. The prices paid for Henderson and Downing seem inflated, but if they deliver, then no-one will care. Of the 2, Downing looks like he will be a good addition, but the jury could be out on Henderson for a long time yet. He was largely anonymous in the European U-21 Championships, but that was admittedly as a part of a pretty poor England team. What could be more relevant to Liverpool’s chances this season is how Suarez and Carroll perform given that they now have a full season to show their worth. Charlie Adam could also represent good value, but how Liverpool accommodate him and Meireles (and indeed Gerrard when he comes back) will be interesting. If nothing else, Dalglish has strengthened his squad, but keeping expectations dampened will be a challenge.
Manchester City
Sergio Aguero may be a very good player, but will he be as effective in the Premier League as Carlos Tevez? I suspect not. City however may not be denied for long – the squad is full of quality players at just about every position, but their style of play is far from that of champions. I would question the wisdom of signing Gael Clichy, over Leighton Baines, or in persevering with Jerome Boateng for that matter. There are still questions in attack as well, namely whether or not Mario Balotelli has anywhere near enough maturity to be trusted, or whether Edin Dzeko has the requisite quality. The Tevez situation is far from resolved either – it struck me last week that a swap between City and Inter involving the mercurial family man and Wesley Sneijder would make sense for City on so many levels – they rid themselves of a potential distraction while acquiring a quality player that their crosstown rivals appear to covet. This sort of move would go a long way to making City more than just noisy neighbours.
Manchester United
Whether David de Gea will be able to seamlessly fill the massive void left by the departure of Edwin van der Saar or whether Phil Jones represents an upgrade over John O’Shea in the short-term remains to be seen, as does the issue of the quality of central midfield, especially in light of Paul Scholes’ retirement, but the reality is that this squad is more than good enough to retain its title when you survey the Premier League landscape as it is presently configured. What Ryan Giggs has left to offer is a huge question, but the acquisition of Ashley Young, along with the talents of Nani and the return from loan spells of Cleverly and Wellbeck means that there are plenty of options available to take up the slack should age and other matters begin to impact Giggs’ form. The acquisition of Sneijder may not be what they need to beat Barcelona on the European stage, but it would surely but them over the top yet again in their domestic league. As usual, Man Utd. drive on while their domestic rivals dawdle.
Newcastle United
Follow their implosion live on Twitter! Another team that is in serious danger of falling into a relegation fight. Mike Ashley did very well from the sale of Andy Carroll, but his stance on Joey Barton signals his true intent for this proud club. I would question the decision to sell Kevin Nolan as well, but maybe it says something for his motivation that he was happy to move to a Championship club (what price that he will be back in the EPL next season?). Expect them to cash in on Jose Enrique before the transfer window closes. I don’t know enough (read: anything) about their 3 French signings to say what they will contribute, but Demba Ba on a free could prove to be shrewd business, and Hatem Ben Arfa should be fit and raring to go, so maybe it’s not all doom and gloom.
Norwich City
Based on the excellent writing of the Swiss Ramble, Norwich appear to be the best run of the 3 promoted teams and while they lack star power, they have a sustainable strategy, which seems to assume that they will be relegated this season, but have the resources to come straight back up and then fight to stay there. Sensible stuff, but based on what I think may happen at QPR and the fact that they finished so far ahead of Swansea last season makes me think that Norwich have the best chance of the 3 to stay up. Early form will be crucial.
Queens Park Rangers
Possibly one of the richest clubs in the league, but other than the fact that they have just hiked ticket prices, you’d hardly know it. Any signings made have been free (at least they have Premier League experience) and Neil Warnock is one of the favourites to get the sack. Not quite a soap opera of Newcastle type proportions, but it could get there by the end of the season. In Taarabt, they have a player I’m see many are intrigued to see on the Premier League stage (which is graced previously very briefly with Spurs). Having said that, PSG are reportedly interested and aren’t afraid to splash the cash. If he leaves, I will assume that they are doomed if the owners reluctance to spend continues.
Stoke City
Ones to watch? Very steady performers under Tony Pulis and very solid at home. Their style is not to everyone’s liking, but it is effective. Woodgate and Upson are high risk signings, and how can Tony contemplate leaving out goal machine Robert Huth from his back 4! Landing Scott Parker would be a coup, and outside of last season’s Top 4 plus Spurs and Liverpool, Stoke could be the team to break into the Europa League places ahead of more established names. Of course, they play in this season’s EL thanks to their runners up spot in last season’s FA Cup so how they handle the demands of Europe could have a bearing on their PL form.
Sunderland
Selling Darren Bent and buying Asamoah Gyan and then selling Jordan Henderson and buying Craig Gardner for around half the money (or less) received and Seb Larsson for nothing looks like pretty good business to me. How John O’Shea and Wes Brown fare away from Old Trafford, where they served as valuable squad players will be interesting, especially when Nicky Butt and Phil Neville performed similar roles for Man Utd but hardly distinguished themselves elsewhere. Steve Bruce appears to have the resources to survive, and perhaps challenge for a Europa League spot, but a long run of dreadful results similar to last season cannot be repeated.
Swansea City
Like the other team in white (Bolton), I’ll confess that not much about Swansea in the news has caught my eye this summer. Scott Sinclair looks a good player – someone that Chelsea could have done well to persevere with, but all indications are that they will be relegation candidates unless they can pull a few surprises early on.
Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs are making all the right noises on the Modric issue, but they will look like fools if he does end up leaving. What they can expect from a player who has made public his desire to leave but has yet to formally request a move is a moot point. Whether or not Gareth Bale can continue his Footballer of the Year ‘form’ (which was fleeting enough to be honest!) and who is deployed up front are key questions. Even if Modric leaves, there is quality there to compensate – Sandro showed great development last season and Kyle Walker’s form for Aston Villa and England was very encouraging (if you’re a Spurs fan). Given Liverpool’s signings and Manchester City’s continued development, it seems unlikely that Spurs are good enough for the Champions League as things stand, less so if they lose Modric and fail to address questions up front.
West Bromwich Albion
Based on past history, would appear to be a leading candidate for relegation, but if they continue the form they showed under Roy Hodgson last season, they could survive with some degree of comfort, especially if Peter Odemwingie continues his good goalscoring form. Signings up until now weren’t very inspiring, but this week’s acquisition of Shane Long could be a good buy.
Wigan Athletic
The loss of N’Zogbia and Cleverly will hurt, but keeping Rodellega will help in their fight to stave off relegation. The continued development of McCarthy will be of interest to Irish fans, but how much we see of him in a green jersey is a worry at this stage. Roberto Martinez tries to play the game the right way, but perhaps a touch more pragmatism will be necessary this season.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Like Martinez at Wigan, Mick McCarthy picks players and uses a system that yields football that is easy on the eye. Some great results last season, and they’ve managed to retain the likes of Kevin Doyle, who, if fit, could be the key to their survival this season. In addition, Jamie O’Hara and Roger Johnson add to the quality of the team. It’s hard to see them repeating wins over Chelsea and Liverpool, so beating their peers will likely go a long way to determining their final league position. They may struggle against well organised and physical teams.
Top 3
1. Man Utd.
2. Chelsea
3. Man City
Bottom 3
18. Wigan
19. QPR
20. Swansea
You really have to question the competence of the decision-makers at Arsenal if the stories about the Juan Mata failed bid are true. Fabergas looks like he’s gone and Nasri may not be far behind. Sure there will be funds, but with less than 3 weeks left in the transfer window, the pressure will be on to bring in big name replacements. Or so you would think – the only name being floated around at the moment seems to be Scott Dann. Gervinho will probably be a success, Oxlade-Chamberlain has not played at a level higher than League 1 until now, so we’ll have to wait and see how he steps up in the Premier League. This could be the the season where Arsenal drop out of the Top 4. I’m sure their fans are frustrated, heck, they sort of frustrate me at times as well.
Aston Villa
What is the plan at Villa? Spending big money on Darren Bent last season seemed to signal ambition, but then selling his 2 putative providers in chief seems contradictory, although denying Ashley Young a move to Manchester United was probably going to be a difficult position to maintain in the short-term, while Liverpool’s offer for Stewart Downing appears to represent good business for Villa, especially when they can turn around and buy Charles N’Zogbia for half the money. Fans patience will be very thin this season, especially in light of the decision to appoint the man who has just overseen the relegation of their fiercest rivals.
Blackburn Rovers
David Goodwillie? This is what the Venky’s money is bringing to Blackburn? Where’s Kaka et al? Losing Phil Jones will hurt, and losing Chris Samba could be fatal. No better than mid table, and possible relegation contenders, but the fact that there are probably poorer teams out there mean that they might hang on.
Bolton
A quiet enough summer at the Reebok, where keeping Gary Cahill and getting Stuart Holden back from injury could go a long way towards defining their season. They haven’t had the best of luck so far this summer – Tyrone Mears and the Korean Lee Chung-Yong both look like missing significant time due to both suffering broken legs in pre-season. A team that will struggle to break into the Top 8, but should find it relatively comfortable to remain in mid table.
Chelsea
Is essentially the same squad that looked tired and unimaginative last season really the one to do better this season? Is Fernando Torres really finished or just not getting the kind of service on which he thrives? How much time will Andre Villas-Boas be given to win a Premier League and Champions League title? So many questions that look like taking a while to answer. Chelsea’s signings so far this summer almost hint at building for the future – in contrast with the big money signings of David Luiz and Torres in January which seemed to suggest a desire to win big, quickly. As things stand, I don’t see them overhauling Man Utd this season, and Man City are only going to get stronger.
Everton
Moving forward by standing still? It’s hard to see this team achieving more than say a Europa League or Cup Final berth – some good players for sure, but the squad is thin, especially up front, where Louis Saha is dangerous when fit, but alas that is never a given. Holding on to Baines, Jagielka, Fellani and Arteta is perhaps a more valuable coup than any signings David Moyes could hope to make.
Fulham
I guess the position taken over Mark Hughes shows that disloyalty won’t be tolerated, which is fine in one sense, but it also smacks to me of cutting off your nose to spite your face in another. Hughes seemed like a decent manager - although Martin Jol could turn out to be a decent replacement. Fulham have a pretty solid defence anchored by Hangelaand and Schwarzer, and some decent striking options in attack and from deeper. Assuming the players take to Jol relatively quickly, they could have a relatively comfortable season, but the Europa League via the Fair Play table is probably likely to be the zenith of their ambitions again.
Liverpool
Big spenders but value for money doesn’t seem to be a concern. The prices paid for Henderson and Downing seem inflated, but if they deliver, then no-one will care. Of the 2, Downing looks like he will be a good addition, but the jury could be out on Henderson for a long time yet. He was largely anonymous in the European U-21 Championships, but that was admittedly as a part of a pretty poor England team. What could be more relevant to Liverpool’s chances this season is how Suarez and Carroll perform given that they now have a full season to show their worth. Charlie Adam could also represent good value, but how Liverpool accommodate him and Meireles (and indeed Gerrard when he comes back) will be interesting. If nothing else, Dalglish has strengthened his squad, but keeping expectations dampened will be a challenge.
Manchester City
Sergio Aguero may be a very good player, but will he be as effective in the Premier League as Carlos Tevez? I suspect not. City however may not be denied for long – the squad is full of quality players at just about every position, but their style of play is far from that of champions. I would question the wisdom of signing Gael Clichy, over Leighton Baines, or in persevering with Jerome Boateng for that matter. There are still questions in attack as well, namely whether or not Mario Balotelli has anywhere near enough maturity to be trusted, or whether Edin Dzeko has the requisite quality. The Tevez situation is far from resolved either – it struck me last week that a swap between City and Inter involving the mercurial family man and Wesley Sneijder would make sense for City on so many levels – they rid themselves of a potential distraction while acquiring a quality player that their crosstown rivals appear to covet. This sort of move would go a long way to making City more than just noisy neighbours.
Manchester United
Whether David de Gea will be able to seamlessly fill the massive void left by the departure of Edwin van der Saar or whether Phil Jones represents an upgrade over John O’Shea in the short-term remains to be seen, as does the issue of the quality of central midfield, especially in light of Paul Scholes’ retirement, but the reality is that this squad is more than good enough to retain its title when you survey the Premier League landscape as it is presently configured. What Ryan Giggs has left to offer is a huge question, but the acquisition of Ashley Young, along with the talents of Nani and the return from loan spells of Cleverly and Wellbeck means that there are plenty of options available to take up the slack should age and other matters begin to impact Giggs’ form. The acquisition of Sneijder may not be what they need to beat Barcelona on the European stage, but it would surely but them over the top yet again in their domestic league. As usual, Man Utd. drive on while their domestic rivals dawdle.
Newcastle United
Follow their implosion live on Twitter! Another team that is in serious danger of falling into a relegation fight. Mike Ashley did very well from the sale of Andy Carroll, but his stance on Joey Barton signals his true intent for this proud club. I would question the decision to sell Kevin Nolan as well, but maybe it says something for his motivation that he was happy to move to a Championship club (what price that he will be back in the EPL next season?). Expect them to cash in on Jose Enrique before the transfer window closes. I don’t know enough (read: anything) about their 3 French signings to say what they will contribute, but Demba Ba on a free could prove to be shrewd business, and Hatem Ben Arfa should be fit and raring to go, so maybe it’s not all doom and gloom.
Norwich City
Based on the excellent writing of the Swiss Ramble, Norwich appear to be the best run of the 3 promoted teams and while they lack star power, they have a sustainable strategy, which seems to assume that they will be relegated this season, but have the resources to come straight back up and then fight to stay there. Sensible stuff, but based on what I think may happen at QPR and the fact that they finished so far ahead of Swansea last season makes me think that Norwich have the best chance of the 3 to stay up. Early form will be crucial.
Queens Park Rangers
Possibly one of the richest clubs in the league, but other than the fact that they have just hiked ticket prices, you’d hardly know it. Any signings made have been free (at least they have Premier League experience) and Neil Warnock is one of the favourites to get the sack. Not quite a soap opera of Newcastle type proportions, but it could get there by the end of the season. In Taarabt, they have a player I’m see many are intrigued to see on the Premier League stage (which is graced previously very briefly with Spurs). Having said that, PSG are reportedly interested and aren’t afraid to splash the cash. If he leaves, I will assume that they are doomed if the owners reluctance to spend continues.
Stoke City
Ones to watch? Very steady performers under Tony Pulis and very solid at home. Their style is not to everyone’s liking, but it is effective. Woodgate and Upson are high risk signings, and how can Tony contemplate leaving out goal machine Robert Huth from his back 4! Landing Scott Parker would be a coup, and outside of last season’s Top 4 plus Spurs and Liverpool, Stoke could be the team to break into the Europa League places ahead of more established names. Of course, they play in this season’s EL thanks to their runners up spot in last season’s FA Cup so how they handle the demands of Europe could have a bearing on their PL form.
Sunderland
Selling Darren Bent and buying Asamoah Gyan and then selling Jordan Henderson and buying Craig Gardner for around half the money (or less) received and Seb Larsson for nothing looks like pretty good business to me. How John O’Shea and Wes Brown fare away from Old Trafford, where they served as valuable squad players will be interesting, especially when Nicky Butt and Phil Neville performed similar roles for Man Utd but hardly distinguished themselves elsewhere. Steve Bruce appears to have the resources to survive, and perhaps challenge for a Europa League spot, but a long run of dreadful results similar to last season cannot be repeated.
Swansea City
Like the other team in white (Bolton), I’ll confess that not much about Swansea in the news has caught my eye this summer. Scott Sinclair looks a good player – someone that Chelsea could have done well to persevere with, but all indications are that they will be relegation candidates unless they can pull a few surprises early on.
Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs are making all the right noises on the Modric issue, but they will look like fools if he does end up leaving. What they can expect from a player who has made public his desire to leave but has yet to formally request a move is a moot point. Whether or not Gareth Bale can continue his Footballer of the Year ‘form’ (which was fleeting enough to be honest!) and who is deployed up front are key questions. Even if Modric leaves, there is quality there to compensate – Sandro showed great development last season and Kyle Walker’s form for Aston Villa and England was very encouraging (if you’re a Spurs fan). Given Liverpool’s signings and Manchester City’s continued development, it seems unlikely that Spurs are good enough for the Champions League as things stand, less so if they lose Modric and fail to address questions up front.
West Bromwich Albion
Based on past history, would appear to be a leading candidate for relegation, but if they continue the form they showed under Roy Hodgson last season, they could survive with some degree of comfort, especially if Peter Odemwingie continues his good goalscoring form. Signings up until now weren’t very inspiring, but this week’s acquisition of Shane Long could be a good buy.
Wigan Athletic
The loss of N’Zogbia and Cleverly will hurt, but keeping Rodellega will help in their fight to stave off relegation. The continued development of McCarthy will be of interest to Irish fans, but how much we see of him in a green jersey is a worry at this stage. Roberto Martinez tries to play the game the right way, but perhaps a touch more pragmatism will be necessary this season.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Like Martinez at Wigan, Mick McCarthy picks players and uses a system that yields football that is easy on the eye. Some great results last season, and they’ve managed to retain the likes of Kevin Doyle, who, if fit, could be the key to their survival this season. In addition, Jamie O’Hara and Roger Johnson add to the quality of the team. It’s hard to see them repeating wins over Chelsea and Liverpool, so beating their peers will likely go a long way to determining their final league position. They may struggle against well organised and physical teams.
Top 3
1. Man Utd.
2. Chelsea
3. Man City
Bottom 3
18. Wigan
19. QPR
20. Swansea
Saturday 28 May 2011
Quick Hits-Champions League Final
Barcelona typially enjoy 60-70% possession-but they will have to make better use of the ball than they have done against the likes of Arsenal, Inter and Chelsea in the past. Man Utd are renowned for punishing teams that don't take chances.
Rumours are that Man Utd will start with Fletcher. I don't really agree with this decision. He hasn't played in a while, and Hernandez could be a real thorn in Barcelona's side, especially if Mascherano plays centre back.
In saying that, it's hard to believe that Man Utd could survive with Carrick and Giggs in the centre. And, Hernandez can be just as effective coming on as a sub. Assuming the game hasn't got away from Utd at that point.
Lionel Messi is the best player in the world. It's on nights like these, players like him show their worth. But, if you looking for a guy to get a key goal, look no further than Andres Iniesta.
I'm not sure on Carles Puyol's ability to match up against Valencia if he does line out at left back.
Sergio Busquets is becoming one of the most hated figures in European football. It will be interesting to see if he adds to this reputation tonight. I don't like this aspect of Barcelona's game for sure (I've seen it against Chelsea more than once), however, I do think that the good outweighs the bad. No team is perfect.
Ibrhaim Affelay could be a real game changer from the bench for Barcelona. Maybe Nani for Man Utd also.
Rumours are that this could be Pep Guardiola's last game in charge of Barcelona and that he could leave to take over at Stamford Bridge next season. Would I like to see this? Yes. Will it happen? No.
My prediction: 2-1 to Barcelona. Scorers: Messi, Iniesta, Rooney.
Rumours are that Man Utd will start with Fletcher. I don't really agree with this decision. He hasn't played in a while, and Hernandez could be a real thorn in Barcelona's side, especially if Mascherano plays centre back.
In saying that, it's hard to believe that Man Utd could survive with Carrick and Giggs in the centre. And, Hernandez can be just as effective coming on as a sub. Assuming the game hasn't got away from Utd at that point.
Lionel Messi is the best player in the world. It's on nights like these, players like him show their worth. But, if you looking for a guy to get a key goal, look no further than Andres Iniesta.
I'm not sure on Carles Puyol's ability to match up against Valencia if he does line out at left back.
Sergio Busquets is becoming one of the most hated figures in European football. It will be interesting to see if he adds to this reputation tonight. I don't like this aspect of Barcelona's game for sure (I've seen it against Chelsea more than once), however, I do think that the good outweighs the bad. No team is perfect.
Ibrhaim Affelay could be a real game changer from the bench for Barcelona. Maybe Nani for Man Utd also.
Rumours are that this could be Pep Guardiola's last game in charge of Barcelona and that he could leave to take over at Stamford Bridge next season. Would I like to see this? Yes. Will it happen? No.
My prediction: 2-1 to Barcelona. Scorers: Messi, Iniesta, Rooney.
Saturday 7 May 2011
Sunday Showdown
So my predictions of 2 weeks ago are already looking foolish. Arsenal turned the world on its head last weekend by beating Man Utd at the Emirates, a victory it has to be said, was richly deserved. So Chelsea go into this Sunday's clash at Old Trafford with a chance to catch and overtake Man Utd at the top of the Premier League, with only 2 games to play thereafter. Given that both sides are level on goal difference, the margin of any victory will be vital. But, let's not get ahead of ourselves, a Chelsea victory is far from assured, despite Man Utd's wobbles and Chelsea's apparent return to form.
Chelsea, it has to be said, were somewhat fortunate to overcome Spurs last weekend. A combination of 'Arry's lack of tactical ability, his Brazilian goalkeeper's proclivity for English style error and match officials who cannot even get the basics right (ball not over the line, offside in the 6 yard box etc.). Still, they did boss the game and Sandro's audacious strike aside, Spurs offered little. Chelsea go into Sunday's clash buoyed by their come from behind victory, but with an all to familiar selection dilemma looming.
Torres has received much criticism-so much so that I wonder if those dishing it out actually watch him play for Chelsea? Fine, I have blue tinted glasses, but I think it's wide of the mark to say that he himself has played poorly-it still seems to me that the team is not set up to create the sort of chances on which Torres has thrived. Should he start on Sunday? Maybe not, but I'm not sure if we'll see the same sort of performance we saw from Drogba during his cameo at Old Trafford in the 2nd leg of the Champions League Semi-Final last month. And, I always feel that Kalou offers more as a sub than as a starter. Nicolas Anelka seems to be the forgotten man in all this-as is fitting for someone who had a game to forget against Man Utd at Stamford Bridge in the 1st leg of aforementioned Semi-Final-so it's unlikely that Ancelotti would start him. So, if it's to be 4-3-3, it seems like it will be Malouda, Drogba and Kalou. I was hopeful of Torres providing a spark the last time the teams met-that didn't happen, but perhaps Sunday is the time when he will be sprung from the bench to put Chelsea back to the top of the table. I live in hope rather than expectation.
Largely lost in Chelsea's recent 'resurgence' has been the return to the side of John Obi Mikel, who didn't feature (save for a brief substitute appearance) against Man Utd recently. Many scoff at my view that Mikel is an important player for Chelsea, given the system and way they play, but David Pleat (of all people..) pretty much sums up my views on Mikel in yesterday's Guardian. Mikel should start tomorrow, thereby giving Chelsea more shape in the middle and allowing Lampard and Essien to get forward more often. Chelsea were the last team to beat Man Utd at Old Trafford, and that was at a key moment around this time last year. The omens are good, but, regardless of the result on Sunday, Man Utd are still in the driving seat with games against Blackburn and Blackpool to come-thus giving them the edge in the opportunity to generate superior goal difference (Chelsea face Newcastle and Everton). Still, it's one thing to score goals freely when there is no pressure to do so, but when you need to score 3,4 or 5 goals in a game, the situation changes dramatically. I'll not get ahead of myself however, Sunday is enough of a challenge in itself. I'll back my boys for a result-there haven't been many (any?) in big games this season-they are due.
Looking at last Sunday's game at the Emirates, it was noticeable that Arsenal achieved their victory with Cesc Fabergas. I don't doubt the player's class, but I've been saying for a while that now is the time for Arsenal to cash in and trust their future to Wilshire, Song and Ramsey. Selling Cesc would generate enough funds to allow Arsenal to invest in players of both experience and quality-the kind that they have lacked at key moments this season.
At the other end of the table, Wigan and West Ham look best equipped to survive the drop, but Blackburn's points and goal difference advantage means that they may escape, however their fixtures are against them (away to both West Ham and Wolves, home to Man Utd) and I wouldn't be surprised to see them come away with nothing from their last 3 games. But, the fact that they hold the advantage right now and that no team in the bottom 5 is showing any kind of form (only Sunderland and Newcastle have earned less points in the past 5 games than those currently in the bottom 5) means that they might just hang on. Wigan to hold out also, given West Ham's awful form (0 points from 15), Blackpool's woeful defence (conceding an average of 2 per game), and Wolves' inability to beat mediocre opposition (over half their points have come from games with teams in the top half of the table). Happy trails Blackpool, West Ham and Wolves. I'd fancy the latter 2 to make a swift enough return, although the owners commitment to West Ham is tenuous at best.
The FA decided to give this afternoon's match at Loftus Road the party atmosphere it deserved by declaring prior to kick off that QPR would not be deducted points for transfer irregularities and so are now assured of promotion to the Premier League. They will be joined by Norwich City, whose ascent is quite remarkable given their financial situation, the subject of recent analysis by the always interesting Swiss Rambler. Good to see 2 teams that lit up the early days of the Premier League back in the big time. Based on today's results, they look like there's a fair chance they will be joined in next year's Premier League by, for the first time, a Welsh team, as both Swansea and Cardiff find themselves on opposite sides of the draw in the Championship play-offs, however Cardiff's form has been woeful of late and they enter a play off clash with in form Reading in bad shape. Nottingham Forest are the 4th teams in the play-offs and also have a 'historic' Premier League pedigree, but Reading are probably the team to watch.
Chelsea, it has to be said, were somewhat fortunate to overcome Spurs last weekend. A combination of 'Arry's lack of tactical ability, his Brazilian goalkeeper's proclivity for English style error and match officials who cannot even get the basics right (ball not over the line, offside in the 6 yard box etc.). Still, they did boss the game and Sandro's audacious strike aside, Spurs offered little. Chelsea go into Sunday's clash buoyed by their come from behind victory, but with an all to familiar selection dilemma looming.
Torres has received much criticism-so much so that I wonder if those dishing it out actually watch him play for Chelsea? Fine, I have blue tinted glasses, but I think it's wide of the mark to say that he himself has played poorly-it still seems to me that the team is not set up to create the sort of chances on which Torres has thrived. Should he start on Sunday? Maybe not, but I'm not sure if we'll see the same sort of performance we saw from Drogba during his cameo at Old Trafford in the 2nd leg of the Champions League Semi-Final last month. And, I always feel that Kalou offers more as a sub than as a starter. Nicolas Anelka seems to be the forgotten man in all this-as is fitting for someone who had a game to forget against Man Utd at Stamford Bridge in the 1st leg of aforementioned Semi-Final-so it's unlikely that Ancelotti would start him. So, if it's to be 4-3-3, it seems like it will be Malouda, Drogba and Kalou. I was hopeful of Torres providing a spark the last time the teams met-that didn't happen, but perhaps Sunday is the time when he will be sprung from the bench to put Chelsea back to the top of the table. I live in hope rather than expectation.
Largely lost in Chelsea's recent 'resurgence' has been the return to the side of John Obi Mikel, who didn't feature (save for a brief substitute appearance) against Man Utd recently. Many scoff at my view that Mikel is an important player for Chelsea, given the system and way they play, but David Pleat (of all people..) pretty much sums up my views on Mikel in yesterday's Guardian. Mikel should start tomorrow, thereby giving Chelsea more shape in the middle and allowing Lampard and Essien to get forward more often. Chelsea were the last team to beat Man Utd at Old Trafford, and that was at a key moment around this time last year. The omens are good, but, regardless of the result on Sunday, Man Utd are still in the driving seat with games against Blackburn and Blackpool to come-thus giving them the edge in the opportunity to generate superior goal difference (Chelsea face Newcastle and Everton). Still, it's one thing to score goals freely when there is no pressure to do so, but when you need to score 3,4 or 5 goals in a game, the situation changes dramatically. I'll not get ahead of myself however, Sunday is enough of a challenge in itself. I'll back my boys for a result-there haven't been many (any?) in big games this season-they are due.
Looking at last Sunday's game at the Emirates, it was noticeable that Arsenal achieved their victory with Cesc Fabergas. I don't doubt the player's class, but I've been saying for a while that now is the time for Arsenal to cash in and trust their future to Wilshire, Song and Ramsey. Selling Cesc would generate enough funds to allow Arsenal to invest in players of both experience and quality-the kind that they have lacked at key moments this season.
At the other end of the table, Wigan and West Ham look best equipped to survive the drop, but Blackburn's points and goal difference advantage means that they may escape, however their fixtures are against them (away to both West Ham and Wolves, home to Man Utd) and I wouldn't be surprised to see them come away with nothing from their last 3 games. But, the fact that they hold the advantage right now and that no team in the bottom 5 is showing any kind of form (only Sunderland and Newcastle have earned less points in the past 5 games than those currently in the bottom 5) means that they might just hang on. Wigan to hold out also, given West Ham's awful form (0 points from 15), Blackpool's woeful defence (conceding an average of 2 per game), and Wolves' inability to beat mediocre opposition (over half their points have come from games with teams in the top half of the table). Happy trails Blackpool, West Ham and Wolves. I'd fancy the latter 2 to make a swift enough return, although the owners commitment to West Ham is tenuous at best.
The FA decided to give this afternoon's match at Loftus Road the party atmosphere it deserved by declaring prior to kick off that QPR would not be deducted points for transfer irregularities and so are now assured of promotion to the Premier League. They will be joined by Norwich City, whose ascent is quite remarkable given their financial situation, the subject of recent analysis by the always interesting Swiss Rambler. Good to see 2 teams that lit up the early days of the Premier League back in the big time. Based on today's results, they look like there's a fair chance they will be joined in next year's Premier League by, for the first time, a Welsh team, as both Swansea and Cardiff find themselves on opposite sides of the draw in the Championship play-offs, however Cardiff's form has been woeful of late and they enter a play off clash with in form Reading in bad shape. Nottingham Forest are the 4th teams in the play-offs and also have a 'historic' Premier League pedigree, but Reading are probably the team to watch.
Saturday 23 April 2011
The Amazing Race (not so much)
Let’s not kid ourselves-Man Utd need to lose this league before anyone else (Chelsea) can win it. Here was I all set to pretty much wrap up the season and look forward to what might happen in the summer when Arsenal implode in consecutive games and Man Utd stutter away to a toothless Newcastle United. In the meantime, Chelsea took care of business (impressively) against Birmingham and we have a 6 point gap with 5 games to go.
Still, let’s have a look at the fixtures:
Man Utd: 70 pts; +38 gd Chelsea: 64 pts; +34 gd Arsenal: 64 pts; +32 gd
23 April Everton (h) 23 April West Ham (h) 23 April Bolton (a)
1 May Arsenal (a) 30 April Spurs (h) 1 May Man Utd (h)
8 May Chelsea (h) 8 May Man Utd (a) 8 May Stoke (a)
14 May Blackburn (a) 15 May Newcastle (h) 15 May Aston Villa (h)
22 May Blackpool (h) 22 May Everton (a) 22 May Fulham (a)
Let’s start with Arsenal, as despite Monsieur Wenger’s belief that they are still in the race, I am sceptical, especially after recent results-fair enough they are unbeaten in the league since mid-December, when they lost 1-0 at Old Trafford, but there have been too many damaging draws-4-4 v Newcastle after leading 4-0; 3-3 with Spurs after leading 3-1; 0-0 at home v Blackburn and at home v Sunderland. There’s no real shame in drawing 1-1 at home to Liverpool, but it was the manner of the result that raises questions-going ahead deep into injury time, a contender needs to see out the 2 minutes left to seal the win-the defending that led to Liverpool’s penalty equaliser was criminal.
Out of the 5 fixtures remaining, I wouldn’t be surprised if Arsenal fail to win any, although I suspect that Stoke may have other things on their mind a week ahead of the FA Cup Final, and surely Arsenal will be more motivated to take the points at home to Villa and away to Fulham. However, that motivation will depend largely on the next 2 results. They visit a Bolton team smarting from their FA Cup thrashing at the hands of Stoke last weekend. Bolton appear to have little or nothing to play for at this point, with the Europa League surely out of reach, however, you would expect that they will want to rebound after that defeat to Stoke, and, will have in-form striker Danny Sturridge back in the fold today. Let’s say that out their 4 games not involving Man Utd, Arsenal will garner 10 points, and improve their goal difference by 5 goals-which assuming Man Utd breakeven in goal difference at worst would not be enough to break a tie.
Chelsea moved ahead of Arsenal on goal difference after beating Birmingham 3-1, but still trail Man Utd by 4 goals. Chelsea should take full points at home to West Ham and Newcastle, perhaps able to pad their goal difference in the process. Spurs at home and Everton away are harder to call. Chelsea should have beaten Spurs earlier in the season, even in the midst of their horrific form through November and December, and Spurs are undoubtedly running out of steam, so I’ll assume 3 points (just) from that game as well. Away to Everton on the last day is a tough fixture-Chelsea have beaten Everton in 3 games this season, and Everton could be playing for points to move ahead of Liverpool, but not qualify for the Europa League, so it’s hard to say how motivation that will offer today’s professionals. Let’s say that excluding the Man Utd fixture, Chelsea can also win 10 points, but should improve their goal difference by 7.
Finally to Man Utd-the team very much in the driving seat. So much hinges on today’s game against Everton. Even if Chelsea and Arsenal can beat Man Utd and win their other remaining games (which I have not assumed above), they would need to make up a significant enough goal differential in the process. Given that Man Utd face Blackpool at home, you wouldn’t bet against a 3 or 4 goal haul in that game, which could be the deciding factor in the event of a tie on points. Away to Blackburn shouldn’t really present many difficulties for Man Utd, but, their away form is poor and Blackburn could be desperate for points. Based on their home form, I see Man Utd taking 6 points from Everton and Blackpool, and at best I expect a draw at Ewood Park, so 7 points from 3 games, which would leave Chelsea and Arsenal with 15 points to make up.
Assuming Chelsea and Arsenal both take 10 points from a possible 12 and then beat Man Utd at Old Trafford and the Emirates respectively, they would both finish on 77 points, with Chelsea ahead of Arsenal on goal difference. Man Utd would also finish on 77, perhaps only a goal ahead of Chelsea, assuming they can beat Everton by 2 goals and Blackpool by 3, and only suffering single goal defeats to Chelsea and Arsenal. Wow-looks interesting, doesn’t it?
But, here’s what I think happens in reality. Man Utd beat Everton handily today, Arsenal lose to Bolton and then Man Utd get a result at the Emirates and at least a point from their home game with Chelsea. Assuming they still beat Blackpool and get a point at Ewood Park, they would finish on 79 points, with Chelsea on 75 points, and Arsenal finishing perhaps on 74. Man Utd to regain the title, with one of the lowest points tallies in Premier League history (Man Utd won the league with 75 points in 1996-97).
Only one thing is certain-most of my predictions above will be wrong, but Man Utd will still win the title.
Still, let’s have a look at the fixtures:
Man Utd: 70 pts; +38 gd Chelsea: 64 pts; +34 gd Arsenal: 64 pts; +32 gd
23 April Everton (h) 23 April West Ham (h) 23 April Bolton (a)
1 May Arsenal (a) 30 April Spurs (h) 1 May Man Utd (h)
8 May Chelsea (h) 8 May Man Utd (a) 8 May Stoke (a)
14 May Blackburn (a) 15 May Newcastle (h) 15 May Aston Villa (h)
22 May Blackpool (h) 22 May Everton (a) 22 May Fulham (a)
Let’s start with Arsenal, as despite Monsieur Wenger’s belief that they are still in the race, I am sceptical, especially after recent results-fair enough they are unbeaten in the league since mid-December, when they lost 1-0 at Old Trafford, but there have been too many damaging draws-4-4 v Newcastle after leading 4-0; 3-3 with Spurs after leading 3-1; 0-0 at home v Blackburn and at home v Sunderland. There’s no real shame in drawing 1-1 at home to Liverpool, but it was the manner of the result that raises questions-going ahead deep into injury time, a contender needs to see out the 2 minutes left to seal the win-the defending that led to Liverpool’s penalty equaliser was criminal.
Out of the 5 fixtures remaining, I wouldn’t be surprised if Arsenal fail to win any, although I suspect that Stoke may have other things on their mind a week ahead of the FA Cup Final, and surely Arsenal will be more motivated to take the points at home to Villa and away to Fulham. However, that motivation will depend largely on the next 2 results. They visit a Bolton team smarting from their FA Cup thrashing at the hands of Stoke last weekend. Bolton appear to have little or nothing to play for at this point, with the Europa League surely out of reach, however, you would expect that they will want to rebound after that defeat to Stoke, and, will have in-form striker Danny Sturridge back in the fold today. Let’s say that out their 4 games not involving Man Utd, Arsenal will garner 10 points, and improve their goal difference by 5 goals-which assuming Man Utd breakeven in goal difference at worst would not be enough to break a tie.
Chelsea moved ahead of Arsenal on goal difference after beating Birmingham 3-1, but still trail Man Utd by 4 goals. Chelsea should take full points at home to West Ham and Newcastle, perhaps able to pad their goal difference in the process. Spurs at home and Everton away are harder to call. Chelsea should have beaten Spurs earlier in the season, even in the midst of their horrific form through November and December, and Spurs are undoubtedly running out of steam, so I’ll assume 3 points (just) from that game as well. Away to Everton on the last day is a tough fixture-Chelsea have beaten Everton in 3 games this season, and Everton could be playing for points to move ahead of Liverpool, but not qualify for the Europa League, so it’s hard to say how motivation that will offer today’s professionals. Let’s say that excluding the Man Utd fixture, Chelsea can also win 10 points, but should improve their goal difference by 7.
Finally to Man Utd-the team very much in the driving seat. So much hinges on today’s game against Everton. Even if Chelsea and Arsenal can beat Man Utd and win their other remaining games (which I have not assumed above), they would need to make up a significant enough goal differential in the process. Given that Man Utd face Blackpool at home, you wouldn’t bet against a 3 or 4 goal haul in that game, which could be the deciding factor in the event of a tie on points. Away to Blackburn shouldn’t really present many difficulties for Man Utd, but, their away form is poor and Blackburn could be desperate for points. Based on their home form, I see Man Utd taking 6 points from Everton and Blackpool, and at best I expect a draw at Ewood Park, so 7 points from 3 games, which would leave Chelsea and Arsenal with 15 points to make up.
Assuming Chelsea and Arsenal both take 10 points from a possible 12 and then beat Man Utd at Old Trafford and the Emirates respectively, they would both finish on 77 points, with Chelsea ahead of Arsenal on goal difference. Man Utd would also finish on 77, perhaps only a goal ahead of Chelsea, assuming they can beat Everton by 2 goals and Blackpool by 3, and only suffering single goal defeats to Chelsea and Arsenal. Wow-looks interesting, doesn’t it?
But, here’s what I think happens in reality. Man Utd beat Everton handily today, Arsenal lose to Bolton and then Man Utd get a result at the Emirates and at least a point from their home game with Chelsea. Assuming they still beat Blackpool and get a point at Ewood Park, they would finish on 79 points, with Chelsea on 75 points, and Arsenal finishing perhaps on 74. Man Utd to regain the title, with one of the lowest points tallies in Premier League history (Man Utd won the league with 75 points in 1996-97).
Only one thing is certain-most of my predictions above will be wrong, but Man Utd will still win the title.
Monday 11 April 2011
Stand and Deliver
So, tomorrow night at Old Trafford an expensively assembled and overpaid squad will attempt to overturn a narrow deficit and force their way into the Semi-Finals of this years Champions League. It's time to put up or shut up. To be honest, a bit more bluster would do no harm I'm sure. Times were more interesting and encounters more fiery when the Special One was around.
In the 1st leg at Stamford Bridge last week, I had to watch (and listen) as the worse than average Carrick and geriatric Giggs schemed to create the scoring chance for the council estate thug Rooney to give Man Utd what could be a decisive lead. Chelsea huffed, but didn't really puff, and Man Utd looked comfortable throughout, helped I'm sure by the fact that Messrs. Ferdinand and Vidic were re-united at the heart of their defence. I'm being a bit unkind to Rooney-this was as well as I'd seen him play in a while, and he showed remarkable self-restraint when being kicked around by Essien and others earlier in the game.
So, tomorrow night, it's going to take something special. Nothing, and I mean nothing, I have seen this season gives me any faith that Chelsea are capable of getting the win in normal time. Fernando has had the time, if not the chances, to open his Chelsea account, but it didn't really look any more likely last week, even though I was relying on the big occasion and the memory of what he's managed to achieve against Vidic and Co in the past to spur him on. Tomorrow night he should have the bile of the thousands in the stands to egg him on-the fact that he has played for Liverpool and was booked for diving last week is sure to attract plenty of of ire from the Stretford End. Hopefully he will feed off this negative energy, but I'm not holding my breath.
Meanwhile, Arsenal managed a win at the seemingly doomed Blackpool to 'stay in contention' for the Premier League title. Please. Arsenal must go to Old Trafford as well as face Spurs and Liverpool in the remaining 5 weeks of the season. If they win even 1 of those games I would be surprised. I for one am giddy at that the thought of Andy Carroll getting in Jens Lehmann's face at a set piece. This recent story suggests that he's still someone with issues. Prior to their win at Blackpool, Arsene Wenger unwisely had a go at the Arsenal supporters-calls for his head likely to grow louder between now and the end of the season-where they will end up, again, with nothing.
As I write this, Liverpool are dismantling Man City at Anfield, watched by the fawning Ray Wilkins-surely the nicest man ever to provide commentary on a football game (he was equally wide eyed and gushing at the Bernabeu last week). I still like him in the job better than the bald Scottish sexist.
In the 1st leg at Stamford Bridge last week, I had to watch (and listen) as the worse than average Carrick and geriatric Giggs schemed to create the scoring chance for the council estate thug Rooney to give Man Utd what could be a decisive lead. Chelsea huffed, but didn't really puff, and Man Utd looked comfortable throughout, helped I'm sure by the fact that Messrs. Ferdinand and Vidic were re-united at the heart of their defence. I'm being a bit unkind to Rooney-this was as well as I'd seen him play in a while, and he showed remarkable self-restraint when being kicked around by Essien and others earlier in the game.
So, tomorrow night, it's going to take something special. Nothing, and I mean nothing, I have seen this season gives me any faith that Chelsea are capable of getting the win in normal time. Fernando has had the time, if not the chances, to open his Chelsea account, but it didn't really look any more likely last week, even though I was relying on the big occasion and the memory of what he's managed to achieve against Vidic and Co in the past to spur him on. Tomorrow night he should have the bile of the thousands in the stands to egg him on-the fact that he has played for Liverpool and was booked for diving last week is sure to attract plenty of of ire from the Stretford End. Hopefully he will feed off this negative energy, but I'm not holding my breath.
Meanwhile, Arsenal managed a win at the seemingly doomed Blackpool to 'stay in contention' for the Premier League title. Please. Arsenal must go to Old Trafford as well as face Spurs and Liverpool in the remaining 5 weeks of the season. If they win even 1 of those games I would be surprised. I for one am giddy at that the thought of Andy Carroll getting in Jens Lehmann's face at a set piece. This recent story suggests that he's still someone with issues. Prior to their win at Blackpool, Arsene Wenger unwisely had a go at the Arsenal supporters-calls for his head likely to grow louder between now and the end of the season-where they will end up, again, with nothing.
As I write this, Liverpool are dismantling Man City at Anfield, watched by the fawning Ray Wilkins-surely the nicest man ever to provide commentary on a football game (he was equally wide eyed and gushing at the Bernabeu last week). I still like him in the job better than the bald Scottish sexist.
Tuesday 5 April 2011
Winding Down
Ok. There have been several false starts since my last posting. So much has happened since then-unless your name is Fernando Torres of course. Between Man Utd. Losing their grip on the Premier League title (only to recover it again after recovering from 2 goals down against Avram Grant’s West Ham at the weekend), to Arsenal fooling with their supporters yet again (getting comprehensively outplayed by Barcelona in the deciding leg of their Champions League clash as well as failing to take 3 points from Sunderland, West Brom or latterly Blackburn, to Ashley Cole going postal on an apprentice, a lot has happened, but not much has really changed.
Liverpool are still a Jekyll and Hyde team-like no other it seems. Sure they have beaten Man Utd and Chelsea under King Kenny’s 2nd coming, but they have also lost to Blackpool, West Ham and now West Brom (managed by someone who seems to have found his level again). Players needed-apply within I guess. Even if he does get the job permanently, I figure Liverpool need at least 4 players to be considered a serious contender for the title itself, let alone the Champions League positions. Ashley Young is a player linked with them consistently-that would help-as would a centre back, left back and probably another midfield player, someone like Joe Cole, not the ghost of Joe Cole, who has been seen around Anfield at times this season. It’s hard to know what they will get from NESV-Meireles was signed by the Texans and the purchase of Suarez and Carroll was essentially self-financed by the sale of Torres. It should be an interesting summer on Merseyside.
I don’t think I’m the only one suggesting that Arsenal need a change of tack. If their current manager is not up to the task of either then they should look elsewhere. This is sacrilege according to most journalists, but what exactly have Arsenal achieved over the past few years, and who should be accountable for the lack of tangible success? Wenger is hailed for the football his side play-pretty at times for sure, but too often impotent and gets a lot of credit for the club’s financial position as well-a laudable objective to be sure, but surely the manager should concentrate on the football at a big club like Arsenal and leave the finances to someone else (like a Director of Football maybe?). Unless Wenger shows a bit more nous in the transfer market (Arshavin and Rosicky have hardly been success stories, Arsenal are said to have passed on the chance to sign Mesut Ozil, Chamakh was free, but hasn’t set the world alight) or changes the way his teams play-unlikely I would say, then Arsenal are simply gambling that the opposition declines enough to allow them to win a title. And if that wasn't this year, then when will it be?
For all his troubles, Wayne Rooney has scored some truly vital goals for Man Utd this season. Witness his ‘spectacular’ overhead kick to win the Manchester derby to Saturday’s hat trick, you can’t deny that his class is still there. Whether a mooted 2 game suspension will do anything to set him back remains to be seen. Yet again, Man Utd seem to ride their luck better than most. If it’s not Rooney escaping what would have been a longer ban for his elbow on James McCarthy, it’s Nemanja Vidic hacking all around him at the weekend, after being booked earlier in the game, and failing to earn a second yellow card. C’est la vie. Regardless of the circumstances, coming from 2 goals down at half-time is worthy of the title, this year anyway. I wouldn’t back against them for the league and cup double at this point either-Man City’s sterile approach to the game-even their manager was ‘surprised’ at their goal scoring exploits against hapless Sunderland at the weekend-suggests that Utd will find a way to win their upcoming FA Cup Semi-Final, which will set them up in a final against either Bolton or Stoke. Ahem. The Champions League? Please.
I have to believe that now is the time for Fernando Torres to ‘finally’ break his goal drought for Chelsea. What better way, time and place to do it than at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night. Although Chelsea’s form has improved since his signing, they still don’t seem like a well oiled outfit. Impressive as he has been, David Luiz showed that he has his faults-it was his rash lunge that allowed Jon Walters to commence his run that led to the opening goal for Stoke at the weekend (even though I still think he looks an excellent signing). Michael Essien still looks a shadow of his former self at times. No matter what combination is tried up front, the participants seem ill disposed to forming a partnership. The league title is surely beyond them now-so surely the Champions League Quarter-Final should see them going for broke. By and large, they now have a full squad to choose from, aside from the cup-tied Luiz and still injured Benayoun (who could feature in the return leg at Old Trafford). For around 40 minutes or so last month, Chelsea showed that they can be a better team than Man Utd-the midfield battle surely favours them if Essien, Lampard and Ramires can play to their potential. Tomorrow night, they need to play at a higher tempo for 90 minutes-their season depends on it at this point, and maybe Ancelotti’s job.
The result from Milan tonight-where Schalke have beaten Inter by 5 goals to 2-should serve as great motivation to whichever English team wins this tie-who will surely be heavily favoured to make the final at Schalke’s expense (I’m assuming that there will be no German miracle for Inter in this round), and, while Barcelona are still the hot favourites (rightfully so), in a one-off game, anything is possible. Chelsea v Barcelona at Wembley? A fitting site for a dish best served cold. But, dominant as Barcelona have been this season, they face a tough enough trip to the Ukraine, and more than likely will have to overcome Real Madrid in the semi-finals (as he showed last year, Mourinho is still a master tactician, but whether he has the players at Madrid to execute the type of game plan that has served him well at Porto, Chelsea and Inter remains to be seen. I suspect not.
I guess I’m getting ahead of myself here, but after tonight’s results, it’s nearly safe to say that Madrid and Schalke will feature in the next round. After tomorrow, I don’t necessarily think the picture will be any clearer, well at least as regards Chelsea/Man Utd, but I’m holding out for a Chelsea/Barcelona final on May 28th.
P.S. I have been saying all season (not on here it seems) that Spurs play schoolboy type football-attack and defend with no ball retention in between. Their tactical ineptness was cruelly (heh heh) exposed tonight, although Peter Crouch playing like Lee Cattermole didn’t help their case.
Liverpool are still a Jekyll and Hyde team-like no other it seems. Sure they have beaten Man Utd and Chelsea under King Kenny’s 2nd coming, but they have also lost to Blackpool, West Ham and now West Brom (managed by someone who seems to have found his level again). Players needed-apply within I guess. Even if he does get the job permanently, I figure Liverpool need at least 4 players to be considered a serious contender for the title itself, let alone the Champions League positions. Ashley Young is a player linked with them consistently-that would help-as would a centre back, left back and probably another midfield player, someone like Joe Cole, not the ghost of Joe Cole, who has been seen around Anfield at times this season. It’s hard to know what they will get from NESV-Meireles was signed by the Texans and the purchase of Suarez and Carroll was essentially self-financed by the sale of Torres. It should be an interesting summer on Merseyside.
I don’t think I’m the only one suggesting that Arsenal need a change of tack. If their current manager is not up to the task of either then they should look elsewhere. This is sacrilege according to most journalists, but what exactly have Arsenal achieved over the past few years, and who should be accountable for the lack of tangible success? Wenger is hailed for the football his side play-pretty at times for sure, but too often impotent and gets a lot of credit for the club’s financial position as well-a laudable objective to be sure, but surely the manager should concentrate on the football at a big club like Arsenal and leave the finances to someone else (like a Director of Football maybe?). Unless Wenger shows a bit more nous in the transfer market (Arshavin and Rosicky have hardly been success stories, Arsenal are said to have passed on the chance to sign Mesut Ozil, Chamakh was free, but hasn’t set the world alight) or changes the way his teams play-unlikely I would say, then Arsenal are simply gambling that the opposition declines enough to allow them to win a title. And if that wasn't this year, then when will it be?
For all his troubles, Wayne Rooney has scored some truly vital goals for Man Utd this season. Witness his ‘spectacular’ overhead kick to win the Manchester derby to Saturday’s hat trick, you can’t deny that his class is still there. Whether a mooted 2 game suspension will do anything to set him back remains to be seen. Yet again, Man Utd seem to ride their luck better than most. If it’s not Rooney escaping what would have been a longer ban for his elbow on James McCarthy, it’s Nemanja Vidic hacking all around him at the weekend, after being booked earlier in the game, and failing to earn a second yellow card. C’est la vie. Regardless of the circumstances, coming from 2 goals down at half-time is worthy of the title, this year anyway. I wouldn’t back against them for the league and cup double at this point either-Man City’s sterile approach to the game-even their manager was ‘surprised’ at their goal scoring exploits against hapless Sunderland at the weekend-suggests that Utd will find a way to win their upcoming FA Cup Semi-Final, which will set them up in a final against either Bolton or Stoke. Ahem. The Champions League? Please.
I have to believe that now is the time for Fernando Torres to ‘finally’ break his goal drought for Chelsea. What better way, time and place to do it than at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night. Although Chelsea’s form has improved since his signing, they still don’t seem like a well oiled outfit. Impressive as he has been, David Luiz showed that he has his faults-it was his rash lunge that allowed Jon Walters to commence his run that led to the opening goal for Stoke at the weekend (even though I still think he looks an excellent signing). Michael Essien still looks a shadow of his former self at times. No matter what combination is tried up front, the participants seem ill disposed to forming a partnership. The league title is surely beyond them now-so surely the Champions League Quarter-Final should see them going for broke. By and large, they now have a full squad to choose from, aside from the cup-tied Luiz and still injured Benayoun (who could feature in the return leg at Old Trafford). For around 40 minutes or so last month, Chelsea showed that they can be a better team than Man Utd-the midfield battle surely favours them if Essien, Lampard and Ramires can play to their potential. Tomorrow night, they need to play at a higher tempo for 90 minutes-their season depends on it at this point, and maybe Ancelotti’s job.
The result from Milan tonight-where Schalke have beaten Inter by 5 goals to 2-should serve as great motivation to whichever English team wins this tie-who will surely be heavily favoured to make the final at Schalke’s expense (I’m assuming that there will be no German miracle for Inter in this round), and, while Barcelona are still the hot favourites (rightfully so), in a one-off game, anything is possible. Chelsea v Barcelona at Wembley? A fitting site for a dish best served cold. But, dominant as Barcelona have been this season, they face a tough enough trip to the Ukraine, and more than likely will have to overcome Real Madrid in the semi-finals (as he showed last year, Mourinho is still a master tactician, but whether he has the players at Madrid to execute the type of game plan that has served him well at Porto, Chelsea and Inter remains to be seen. I suspect not.
I guess I’m getting ahead of myself here, but after tonight’s results, it’s nearly safe to say that Madrid and Schalke will feature in the next round. After tomorrow, I don’t necessarily think the picture will be any clearer, well at least as regards Chelsea/Man Utd, but I’m holding out for a Chelsea/Barcelona final on May 28th.
P.S. I have been saying all season (not on here it seems) that Spurs play schoolboy type football-attack and defend with no ball retention in between. Their tactical ineptness was cruelly (heh heh) exposed tonight, although Peter Crouch playing like Lee Cattermole didn’t help their case.
Sunday 6 February 2011
The Beatings Will Continue Until Morale Improves
So, just over 10 days ago I wrote that Chelsea's problems would not be solved by the addition of Fernando Torres. And so it was evident in todays loss to Liverpool-this team is no longer fit for purpose. On a weekend when we saw records broken for goals scored in the Premier League, Chelsea could barely manage a shot on target in 90 minutes against a well organised Liverpool team. And the problems continue at the other end of the team-FUD is rife in the Chelsea penalty area of late, as witnessed by the events leading to Liverpool's winning goal (very well taken by their outstanding player of recent weeks, Raul Meireles), and by the tense exchange between Cech and Ivanovic late in the 1st half.
Torres is an excellent predator-but when there is no prey, he is just another body on the pitch. Chelsea's failure to create more that 1 opportunity for the mercurial Spaniard makes him no more useful than a Kalou or a Malouda. Not to mention that in 2 games for Bolton, Danny Sturridge has managed 2 goals (I'm not for 1 minute suggesting that Sturridge is a better player than Torres). Maybe if Chelsea were more willing to give youth a chance, this season wouldn't have turned so stale so quickly. Sturridge, McEachran, Bruma, van Aanholt, Kakuta have played sparingly and are now likely to feature less due to loan moves or the manager's conservatism.
This is now the 7th game in which Chelsea have failed to score in this years Premier League. Contrast that with last season, where they scored in 37 of 38 games, and Man Utd's record this season (have scored in 22 of 25 games), you can see that there is a problem, and the cause is a lack of creativity rather than a failure to take chances. When you add that to a shaky back 4, you are going to have more days like today.
On a weekend when Man Utd finally showed that they are far from invincible and Arsenal showed (yet again) that they don't have the mental toughness to win a Premier League title, this was an outstanding chance for Chelsea to get themselves back in the title race and put a bit of pressue on Man Utd ahead of next Saturday's Manchester derby. Instead, Chelsea now have 13 games left to overturn a 10 point deficit. Even if they manage to beat Man Utd twice, they will have to win every other game as well and hope that others can do to Man Utd what Wolves managed yesterday. No surprise that the bookies have Man Utd at 6/4 on to win the Title at this point.
Tip of the cap to Liverpool-Jamie Carragher epitomises true grit, and in Meireles, they had the outstanding midfield player on the pitch today. King Kenny had a plan that worked to perfection-surely NESV will hand him the reins on a permanent basis sooner rather than later?
Torres is an excellent predator-but when there is no prey, he is just another body on the pitch. Chelsea's failure to create more that 1 opportunity for the mercurial Spaniard makes him no more useful than a Kalou or a Malouda. Not to mention that in 2 games for Bolton, Danny Sturridge has managed 2 goals (I'm not for 1 minute suggesting that Sturridge is a better player than Torres). Maybe if Chelsea were more willing to give youth a chance, this season wouldn't have turned so stale so quickly. Sturridge, McEachran, Bruma, van Aanholt, Kakuta have played sparingly and are now likely to feature less due to loan moves or the manager's conservatism.
This is now the 7th game in which Chelsea have failed to score in this years Premier League. Contrast that with last season, where they scored in 37 of 38 games, and Man Utd's record this season (have scored in 22 of 25 games), you can see that there is a problem, and the cause is a lack of creativity rather than a failure to take chances. When you add that to a shaky back 4, you are going to have more days like today.
On a weekend when Man Utd finally showed that they are far from invincible and Arsenal showed (yet again) that they don't have the mental toughness to win a Premier League title, this was an outstanding chance for Chelsea to get themselves back in the title race and put a bit of pressue on Man Utd ahead of next Saturday's Manchester derby. Instead, Chelsea now have 13 games left to overturn a 10 point deficit. Even if they manage to beat Man Utd twice, they will have to win every other game as well and hope that others can do to Man Utd what Wolves managed yesterday. No surprise that the bookies have Man Utd at 6/4 on to win the Title at this point.
Tip of the cap to Liverpool-Jamie Carragher epitomises true grit, and in Meireles, they had the outstanding midfield player on the pitch today. King Kenny had a plan that worked to perfection-surely NESV will hand him the reins on a permanent basis sooner rather than later?
Saturday 29 January 2011
A Bullish Move
Well, just the other day I tweeted that this was the worse transfer window ever. Bent and Dzeko aside, not much has happened. And then, on Friday, we got some action.
To me, something seemed fishy. Chelsea allegedly had bid £52m for Atheltico Madrid pair Aguero and Godin, and nothing had come of it. Then, £22m or so for Benfica's Brzailian defender David Luiz. Off and on, now seemingly dead. Then, most surprising of all, a reported £35m bid for Fernando Torres. This coming just as Liverpool were in the process of sealing the signature of Luis Suarez, who would appear to be the ideal compliment to Torres in Liverpool's attack. My suspicion is that Chelsea were merely flashing money around to make it seem like they were taking action to arrest what has been an alarming decline, but weren't really serious about signing anybody. However, the news that Torres has in fact handed in a transfer request makes me think that there may be some substance to this bid for the Spaniard.
Anyway, let's just assume that Chelsea are serious about signing Torres. What would he add? Well, surely he is the best natural finisher in the Premier League, if not in world football. However, he wouldn't really have changed the shape of the Sunderland or Arsenal games in the past few months. And, he probably wouldn't have prevented Louis Saha's header in this afternoon's FA Cup tie. Still, he would surely provide more of a cutting edge than Anelka, and could have made the difference against the likes of Wolves and Birmingham, games Chelsea have lost 1-0 in recent times. And, Chelsea are a team that don't tend to create an abundance of chances-Torres is just the man to exploit such limited opportunities.
But how would Chelsea line up with the mercurial Spaniard on board? Surely they wouldn't persist with the 4-3-3? The most likely scenario to me is a 4-1-2-1-2, aka the 'Diamond' with Essien deep, Ramires and Malouda right and left respectively, Lampard 'in the hole' and Drogba and Torres up front. Surely they would not ask Torres to play the same type of position as Anelka? That formation doesn't really work for me, as Essien needs to be allowed to surge forward to get the most out of him. The alternative would be to play Essien on the right and Mikel as the anchor, but how can you leave out the ever improving Ramires? (I'm assuming that Lampard is 'untouchable, although I would argue he is the odd man out in a balanced midfield quartet at Chelsea these days).
All moot points until any transfer is confirmed, which is still far from likely at this point. The situation seems to mirror that which Man Utd faced with Wayne Rooney earlier this year, and we know how that has worked out. If Liverpool do manage to keep Torres, they will be hoping for a great return than 2 goals, which is what Man Utd have got from Rooney since he committed his future to the red half of Manchester.
Why exactly has Torres handed in this request now, just as Liverpool have signed what could prove to be a player of real class and have started making some forward progress under Kenny Dalglish, and, have American owners who appear committed to the club and appreciative of its heritage. At the same time, Chelsea appear to be a team in decline. Their chances of retaining their Premier League title appear remote. While they have a favourable draw in he Champions League, it's hard to see them beating the likes of Barcelona or Inter Milan should they progress past FC Copenhagen. And, their place in next season's Champions League is far from certain at this point. I can only think that(a) he has been offered (unofficially) a ridiculous wage; (B) is not enamoured with Dalglish; (c) is tired of having his house robbed and worried at the thought of his children growing up to sound like John Aldridge.
It's interesting as well that Torres waited until now. If money was the issue, then surely he should have been making noises earlier in January, when Man City were shopping for Edin Dzeko. It's hard to believe that money would be an issue for City now, even with the money spent on Dzeko, and so I wouldn't be surprised if we hear from them before close of business on Monday.
Right now, all that is certain is that Liverpool fans face an anxious wait for the next 48 or so hours. For Chelsea, the signing of Torres could be the spark the team needs this season if they are to complete an unlikely turnaround.
To me, something seemed fishy. Chelsea allegedly had bid £52m for Atheltico Madrid pair Aguero and Godin, and nothing had come of it. Then, £22m or so for Benfica's Brzailian defender David Luiz. Off and on, now seemingly dead. Then, most surprising of all, a reported £35m bid for Fernando Torres. This coming just as Liverpool were in the process of sealing the signature of Luis Suarez, who would appear to be the ideal compliment to Torres in Liverpool's attack. My suspicion is that Chelsea were merely flashing money around to make it seem like they were taking action to arrest what has been an alarming decline, but weren't really serious about signing anybody. However, the news that Torres has in fact handed in a transfer request makes me think that there may be some substance to this bid for the Spaniard.
Anyway, let's just assume that Chelsea are serious about signing Torres. What would he add? Well, surely he is the best natural finisher in the Premier League, if not in world football. However, he wouldn't really have changed the shape of the Sunderland or Arsenal games in the past few months. And, he probably wouldn't have prevented Louis Saha's header in this afternoon's FA Cup tie. Still, he would surely provide more of a cutting edge than Anelka, and could have made the difference against the likes of Wolves and Birmingham, games Chelsea have lost 1-0 in recent times. And, Chelsea are a team that don't tend to create an abundance of chances-Torres is just the man to exploit such limited opportunities.
But how would Chelsea line up with the mercurial Spaniard on board? Surely they wouldn't persist with the 4-3-3? The most likely scenario to me is a 4-1-2-1-2, aka the 'Diamond' with Essien deep, Ramires and Malouda right and left respectively, Lampard 'in the hole' and Drogba and Torres up front. Surely they would not ask Torres to play the same type of position as Anelka? That formation doesn't really work for me, as Essien needs to be allowed to surge forward to get the most out of him. The alternative would be to play Essien on the right and Mikel as the anchor, but how can you leave out the ever improving Ramires? (I'm assuming that Lampard is 'untouchable, although I would argue he is the odd man out in a balanced midfield quartet at Chelsea these days).
All moot points until any transfer is confirmed, which is still far from likely at this point. The situation seems to mirror that which Man Utd faced with Wayne Rooney earlier this year, and we know how that has worked out. If Liverpool do manage to keep Torres, they will be hoping for a great return than 2 goals, which is what Man Utd have got from Rooney since he committed his future to the red half of Manchester.
Why exactly has Torres handed in this request now, just as Liverpool have signed what could prove to be a player of real class and have started making some forward progress under Kenny Dalglish, and, have American owners who appear committed to the club and appreciative of its heritage. At the same time, Chelsea appear to be a team in decline. Their chances of retaining their Premier League title appear remote. While they have a favourable draw in he Champions League, it's hard to see them beating the likes of Barcelona or Inter Milan should they progress past FC Copenhagen. And, their place in next season's Champions League is far from certain at this point. I can only think that(a) he has been offered (unofficially) a ridiculous wage; (B) is not enamoured with Dalglish; (c) is tired of having his house robbed and worried at the thought of his children growing up to sound like John Aldridge.
It's interesting as well that Torres waited until now. If money was the issue, then surely he should have been making noises earlier in January, when Man City were shopping for Edin Dzeko. It's hard to believe that money would be an issue for City now, even with the money spent on Dzeko, and so I wouldn't be surprised if we hear from them before close of business on Monday.
Right now, all that is certain is that Liverpool fans face an anxious wait for the next 48 or so hours. For Chelsea, the signing of Torres could be the spark the team needs this season if they are to complete an unlikely turnaround.
Saturday 15 January 2011
Far from 7th Heaven
7-0 victories over Championship strugglers don't count for much. Especially when the striker that got 2 of the goals will likely revert to the bench for this afternoon's Premier League game away to Blackburn. Especially when Didier Drogba will probably lead the line again today, despite seeming a shadow of his former self since his bout of malaria. Especially when Roy the Boy wasn't around-otherwise it would have been much sweeter to savour. Since I last blogged, when the wheels were just beginning to come off Chelsea's season, things have been much worse than I ever could have imagined. The only bright spot in the past 2 months was the postponement of the Christmas clash with Manchester United, which surely would have been a United win (possibly by a big score), and, (trying to stay positive,) has given Chelsea the chance to take 6 points off the new favourites in the final quarter of the season.
It seems like the tide has shifted permanently in Man Utd's favour. Chelsea haven't played well enough to deserve more than they've got in fairness, but United aren't setting the world on fire either-witness their recent league game with West Brom-they should have been dead and buried at half-time, but hung around long enough for West Brom to miss a penalty, lose another centre back and forget to mark Chicarito from a corner. Chelsea meantime have missed a last minute penalty at Spurs, stormed back to take the lead late against Villa, only to lose in injury time, and contrived to lose to Wolves through a Jose Bosingwa own goal. Add to that a flat and pathetic performance at the Emirates and Chelsea now find themselves out of the Champions League qualifying places, and 9 points behind United, having played a game more than the league leaders.
What exactly is wrong at Chelsea is hard to say. Lack of interest/motivation? Perhaps, although the celebrations after the 3rd goal against Villa seemed genuine. Thin squad? Almost certainly-Kakuta, Kalou and Sturridge don't look good enough most of the time, although Kakuta and Sturridge need to see more game time. McEachran has looked really good in very limited action, but where does he fit in a 4-3-3 assuming Frank Lampard has to play. Ferreira? Not good enough, and Ancellotti's infuriating habit of using both right full backs in a game is a waste of a substitution. Injuries too have played a part-Alex, Zhirkov and Benayoun have missed significant time, as have Lapmard and Drogba, who have started slowly on their return to the 1st team. On the coaching front, it does look like the rug was pulled from under Ancellotti-the interaction between Ray Wilkins' replacement (Michael Emenalo)is non-existent during games. What exactly he contributes on the training ground is a moot point. Whatever is wrong, it needs to be fixed, and that needs to start today against Blackburn Rovers, who go into the game without Ronaldinho, but can welcome back Roque Santa Cruz from the free spending blue half of Manchester. A telling stat from the excellent Infostrada-Chelsea have picked up 7 points from a possible 27 in their last 9 Premier League matches. Only Villa (5) and West Brom (6) have picked up fewer in the same period.
For Man Utd, it's hard to say what is behind their form. Resiliance is the key I suppose. Rooney is nowhere near the player he was when fit last season, Berbatov is brilliant one game, boorish the next. Their defence has tend to bend rather than break, with injuries and mistakes leading them to concede goals to average opposition, although it has been somewhat better of late. Tip of the cap to Sir Alex, he's probably won another league title, and I wouldn't rule them out for the double after last Sunday's win.
Arsenal's win over Chelsea was seen as a 'pivotal moment' and signified 'men becoming boys'. 3 days later, Arsenal went out and drew 2-2 with 10 man Wigan. 2 steps forward, 2 steps back. In reality, anyone with an objective view of the Arsenal v Chelsea game would have seen a poor game of football, settled by the side that made the most of the opporunities gifted to it by their opponent. Without Cesc Faberas in midfield, Arsenal were rudderles, and it was only when he was moved there did they begin to tick. Like Drogba at Chelsea, and possibly Rooney, Arsenal's best player seems to be short of the sort of fitness and sharpness that allows him to be an elite difference maker. Arsenal still lack the consistency and need a little luck with injuries before they can really contend. Right now, they are still too patchy for my liking, but have the most talented squad.
Of the others-Man City will hang in there, but play too grim a brand of football to win the league-unlike Mourinho's teams, they seem more interest in containing the opposition rather than taking all 3 points. Spurs are still around, but looking to bring in David Beckham and the circus that goes with him shows that 'Arry just can't resist wheeling and dealing.
In breaking news today, it seems that Avram Grant is yet again a dead man walking, and that he will be replaced as West Ham manager by Martin O'Neil after today's game with Arsenal. Avram seems to doom any club he is involved with, I would be surprised if we see him in the Premier League again. On the Martin O'Neill story, it seems strange that he would take on such a difficult task when the Liverpool job is likely to be available in the summer...
It seems like the tide has shifted permanently in Man Utd's favour. Chelsea haven't played well enough to deserve more than they've got in fairness, but United aren't setting the world on fire either-witness their recent league game with West Brom-they should have been dead and buried at half-time, but hung around long enough for West Brom to miss a penalty, lose another centre back and forget to mark Chicarito from a corner. Chelsea meantime have missed a last minute penalty at Spurs, stormed back to take the lead late against Villa, only to lose in injury time, and contrived to lose to Wolves through a Jose Bosingwa own goal. Add to that a flat and pathetic performance at the Emirates and Chelsea now find themselves out of the Champions League qualifying places, and 9 points behind United, having played a game more than the league leaders.
What exactly is wrong at Chelsea is hard to say. Lack of interest/motivation? Perhaps, although the celebrations after the 3rd goal against Villa seemed genuine. Thin squad? Almost certainly-Kakuta, Kalou and Sturridge don't look good enough most of the time, although Kakuta and Sturridge need to see more game time. McEachran has looked really good in very limited action, but where does he fit in a 4-3-3 assuming Frank Lampard has to play. Ferreira? Not good enough, and Ancellotti's infuriating habit of using both right full backs in a game is a waste of a substitution. Injuries too have played a part-Alex, Zhirkov and Benayoun have missed significant time, as have Lapmard and Drogba, who have started slowly on their return to the 1st team. On the coaching front, it does look like the rug was pulled from under Ancellotti-the interaction between Ray Wilkins' replacement (Michael Emenalo)is non-existent during games. What exactly he contributes on the training ground is a moot point. Whatever is wrong, it needs to be fixed, and that needs to start today against Blackburn Rovers, who go into the game without Ronaldinho, but can welcome back Roque Santa Cruz from the free spending blue half of Manchester. A telling stat from the excellent Infostrada-Chelsea have picked up 7 points from a possible 27 in their last 9 Premier League matches. Only Villa (5) and West Brom (6) have picked up fewer in the same period.
For Man Utd, it's hard to say what is behind their form. Resiliance is the key I suppose. Rooney is nowhere near the player he was when fit last season, Berbatov is brilliant one game, boorish the next. Their defence has tend to bend rather than break, with injuries and mistakes leading them to concede goals to average opposition, although it has been somewhat better of late. Tip of the cap to Sir Alex, he's probably won another league title, and I wouldn't rule them out for the double after last Sunday's win.
Arsenal's win over Chelsea was seen as a 'pivotal moment' and signified 'men becoming boys'. 3 days later, Arsenal went out and drew 2-2 with 10 man Wigan. 2 steps forward, 2 steps back. In reality, anyone with an objective view of the Arsenal v Chelsea game would have seen a poor game of football, settled by the side that made the most of the opporunities gifted to it by their opponent. Without Cesc Faberas in midfield, Arsenal were rudderles, and it was only when he was moved there did they begin to tick. Like Drogba at Chelsea, and possibly Rooney, Arsenal's best player seems to be short of the sort of fitness and sharpness that allows him to be an elite difference maker. Arsenal still lack the consistency and need a little luck with injuries before they can really contend. Right now, they are still too patchy for my liking, but have the most talented squad.
Of the others-Man City will hang in there, but play too grim a brand of football to win the league-unlike Mourinho's teams, they seem more interest in containing the opposition rather than taking all 3 points. Spurs are still around, but looking to bring in David Beckham and the circus that goes with him shows that 'Arry just can't resist wheeling and dealing.
In breaking news today, it seems that Avram Grant is yet again a dead man walking, and that he will be replaced as West Ham manager by Martin O'Neil after today's game with Arsenal. Avram seems to doom any club he is involved with, I would be surprised if we see him in the Premier League again. On the Martin O'Neill story, it seems strange that he would take on such a difficult task when the Liverpool job is likely to be available in the summer...
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