The Team of the Week is back after a week off due to Editorial issues. This Weekend's matches began on Saturday lunchtime with Manchester United overcoming Arsenal 2-1 and ended on Monday night with West Brom beating the hapless Southampton. City were held to an uninspiring draw away at West Ham, and Tottenham looked hopeless in losing at home to Wigan. In what was a fairly quiet time in terms of Goals, good attacking performances achieved high marks this week.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK - Alex McCarthy - Reading replaced Adam Federici with McCarthy towards the start of the season and the decision has paid off with a charm. A number of good saves against QPR at the weekend were topped off by a world-class diving save from a free-kick that gave his side a point. Great effort.
RB - Sascha Riether - A new signing at Fulham over the Summer, Riether was a relative unknown, be the pacy defender had been proving a threat to defences in the Premier League. In addition to making a number of vital blocks and interceptions, his overall game meant that he gains a place in our team.
CB - Ciaran Clark - Aston Villa's young centre-back contributed to a vital 3 points at the weekend. Sunderland don't score many goals, but Clark was solid at the back for his side while also providing an aerial threat at set pieces.
CB - Gary Caldwell - He was dominant in the air in his own penalty area, and a force in the air in the opposition area. Caldwell was a vital part of his Wigan side masterminding a 1-0 win away at Tottenham. Repeatedly frustrating the home side with a number of good defensive plays, Caldwell forces his way into this week's team.
LB - Branislav Ivanovic - The Serbian Soldier was forced into a centre-back role at the weekend for Chelsea, but he showed just why he is possibly the most underrated defender in the Premier League. A classy performance in a different defensive position showed his adaptability and indicated he may well be the best defender currently at Chelsea.
LM - Wes Hoolahan - The Irishman's performance was summed up by an audacious attempt from close to the halfway line; a commanding display that saw him create numerous opportunities for his teammates. His overall passing game added to the eye for a pass meant he celebrated a recall to the Ireland squad in style.
CM - Bradley Johnson - Another cog in the Norwich midfield, Johnson scored the only goal of the game with Stoke with a fine headed finish, flicking it off the back of his head into the net. His combination with Hoolahan caused troubles for the opposition for the entire 90 minutes.
CM - Marouane Fellaini - The Player of the Week. Fellaini was comparatively quiet in the first half, but explode into action with an unstoppable second half performace that earned his side a point against a tricky Fulham side. His prowess in the air added to a great technical ability means few have bettered him so far this season.
RM - Antonio Valencia - After spending a period of time out through injury, the diminutive Ecuadorian terrorised Andre Santos and the Arsenal defence at the weekend. An assist and countless drives through the heart of the Arsenal line puts him into the team.
FWD - Peter Odemwingie - A goal in each half as West Brom overcame strugglers Southampton on Monday night. 3 points was virtually provided on a silver platter by the Nigerian frontman and Steve Clarke's side are now 5th in the league after their best ever start.
FWD - Luis Suarez- The final man in this week's side, and again in the headlines. This time however it was for all the right reasons as Suarez brought out a fine piece of skill to earn Liverpool a point in a tough game with Newastle.
Subs - Guzan, S.Taylor, Shorey, Evra, Watson, P.Hernandez, Rooney
Manager - Steve Clarke
Chump of the Week - Andre Santos - The 'left-back' was terrorised by Antonio Valencia and Rafael for the entirety of the game on Saturday. Going forward, said to be his strength, he offered little but an embarassing shot at goal that exited the field of play for a throw in. His performance was summed up by him taking Robin Van Persie's Manchester United jersey at Half-Time.
Tuesday, 6 November 2012
Wednesday, 24 October 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 8
After one week away for the International break, the Premier League returned this week with a few fantastic games. Chelsea vs Tottenham was a thriller and some other closely fought games contributed to a good Premier League weekend. A win for Norwich was surely the highlight over Wenger's Arsenal.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK - John Ruddy - Norwich and England keeper Ruddy kept a cleansheet against Arsenal, with help from his defence, they completed a total shut out of Wenger's wide and a few good saves mean he makes our team.
RB - Sascha Riether - The Cottagers ground out a tough 1-0 win at the weekend, and the clean sheet was in no small part down to this man. A gutsy effory in defence compounded a gritty victory.
CB - Gary Cahill - Replacing John Terry in the Chelsea side at the weekend, Cahill showed he is no mug, scoring the first goal and contributing well in defence. Will Terry really be missed so greatly?
CB - Fabricio Coloccini - Sideshow Bob lookalike Coloccini gave a clinic in how to defend this weekend, a teriffic display ensures that he cements a spot in this week's team. He won 96% of his aerial battles, a great statistic.
LB - Javier Garrido - Again a part of Nowrich's miracle on Saturday, Garrido helped greatly with the keeping of the clean sheet and proved a threat going forward, assisting a couple of promising attacks.
CM - Mark Noble - His two goals catapulted West Ham to 6th in the table for a time, their good start to their Premier League return is no fluke. A solid 4-1 win over Southampton with Noble starring means he makes the side.
RW - Wayne Routledge - Swansea's lively winger provided a great outlet down their flank throughout their game and return to winning ways. A large hand in their first goal and nearly an assist for Michu later on meant he find his way into the TOTW.
LW - Raheem Sterling - The Youngster wonthe game for Liverpool at the weekend with a well taken goal and epitomises the youth growth at the club right now. A real threat down the flank.
CAM - Juan Mata - For what seems like the umpteenth time, Chelsea's little Spaniard finds himself embedded in our TOTW. Yet another Man of the Match performance against Tottenham, with two goals and an assist, meant that he is the man to watch at the moment.
FWD - Wayne Rooney - Rooney's Saturday afternoon may have started slightly differently, but it ended on a high as the frontman grabbed his first two Premier League goals of the season in what turned out to be a fairly comfortable win for United.
FWD - Edin Dzeko - With City struggling and a man down at the Hawthorns on Saturday, the Bosnian super sub came on and completely turned the game around, Two goals in a 20 minute smash and grab means he was probably the most effective player in terms of time on the pitch last weekend.
Subs - Schwarzer, Jagielka, Riise, Nolan, Ramires, Michu, Van Persie
Manager - Chris Hughton
Formation: 4-4-2
GK - John Ruddy - Norwich and England keeper Ruddy kept a cleansheet against Arsenal, with help from his defence, they completed a total shut out of Wenger's wide and a few good saves mean he makes our team.
RB - Sascha Riether - The Cottagers ground out a tough 1-0 win at the weekend, and the clean sheet was in no small part down to this man. A gutsy effory in defence compounded a gritty victory.
CB - Gary Cahill - Replacing John Terry in the Chelsea side at the weekend, Cahill showed he is no mug, scoring the first goal and contributing well in defence. Will Terry really be missed so greatly?
CB - Fabricio Coloccini - Sideshow Bob lookalike Coloccini gave a clinic in how to defend this weekend, a teriffic display ensures that he cements a spot in this week's team. He won 96% of his aerial battles, a great statistic.
LB - Javier Garrido - Again a part of Nowrich's miracle on Saturday, Garrido helped greatly with the keeping of the clean sheet and proved a threat going forward, assisting a couple of promising attacks.
CM - Mark Noble - His two goals catapulted West Ham to 6th in the table for a time, their good start to their Premier League return is no fluke. A solid 4-1 win over Southampton with Noble starring means he makes the side.
RW - Wayne Routledge - Swansea's lively winger provided a great outlet down their flank throughout their game and return to winning ways. A large hand in their first goal and nearly an assist for Michu later on meant he find his way into the TOTW.
LW - Raheem Sterling - The Youngster wonthe game for Liverpool at the weekend with a well taken goal and epitomises the youth growth at the club right now. A real threat down the flank.
CAM - Juan Mata - For what seems like the umpteenth time, Chelsea's little Spaniard finds himself embedded in our TOTW. Yet another Man of the Match performance against Tottenham, with two goals and an assist, meant that he is the man to watch at the moment.
FWD - Wayne Rooney - Rooney's Saturday afternoon may have started slightly differently, but it ended on a high as the frontman grabbed his first two Premier League goals of the season in what turned out to be a fairly comfortable win for United.
FWD - Edin Dzeko - With City struggling and a man down at the Hawthorns on Saturday, the Bosnian super sub came on and completely turned the game around, Two goals in a 20 minute smash and grab means he was probably the most effective player in terms of time on the pitch last weekend.
Subs - Schwarzer, Jagielka, Riise, Nolan, Ramires, Michu, Van Persie
Manager - Chris Hughton
Wednesday, 3 October 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 6
Some massive match-ups this weekend meant that outstanding performances from singular players would surely be vital to deciding between such close games. A hatfull of goals in other games meant that this week's choices were tough, with so few clean sheets meaning we were forced to deploy a different formation. Here is the side we decided on:
Formation - 3-4-3
GK- Ben Foster - West Brom held on to a draw this weekend, and he was instrumental in doing so, pulling off a number of saves that arguably kept them in the game at stages. If only he could produce this kind of performance week in week out.
RB - Seamus Coleman - Quietly going about his business, Coleman is rarely given too much limelight, this weekend; that changed. He was lively down the flanks and caused a constant problem to the Southampton defence, his assist helped Jelavic score his header.
CB - Jan Vertonghen - This man was the catalyst to Spurs' first win at Old Trafford since BC. His 2nd minute goal started a first half domination from Tottenham that Manchester United never got over. Belgium's centre half has impressed during his initial few performances in the Premier League.
LB - Carl Jenkinson - Arsenal have revived their defence this year with the noticeable help of Steve Bould. Jenkinson is one who seems to have benefitted a great deal. Having endured the massacre at Old Trafford last season, where he was hopelessly exposed, Jenkinson hasn't missed much this season and his performance in a losing effort on Saturday suggested he has real future potential.
CDM - Paul Scholes - They may have lost, but this man never fails to amaze even the most trained of Footballing eyes. Another masterful performances which saw him complete 132 passes of 141 attempted means United's maestro looks as good as ever. He ran the performance for United but couldn't quite inspire them to a win.
CM - Nuri Sahin - Liverpool may well have pulled off a gem of a signing with this fella. He has had a similar impact to that of Eden Hazard in the Chelsea side. His goals and assists are already proving useful and another top quality performance sees him feature in our picks this week.
CM - Leon Osman - Often the unnoticed member of Everton's midfield, Osman had a teriffic week this week. He controlled the tempo well and proved a passing threat. To top it off, a goal meant that his side drew level in what could have game for the Toffees.
CAM - Moussa Dembele - Yet again, Belgian players seem to be dominating this Fantasy side. Dembele is another one of them, his first half performance was, as shown by Spurs' 2-0 Half-Time lead, unstoppable. His power coupled with outstanding ability on the ball means he is a threat to most sides.
FWD - Luis Suarez - There isn't a player that divides an opinion more than the Uruguayan this week, you could be forgiven for saying he has proven his critics wrong. A Hat-Trick of goals at his favourite venue of Carrow Road puts him top of the goalscoring charts and means he strolls into this week's team.
FWD -Demba Ba - Last but not least this week is Senegal's talisman striker. Last season, he experienced a dry spell thanks to the form of Papiss Cisse, but one of his goals at the weekend showed he has far from lost his touch, a fantastic finish added to a goal he knew little about meant a brace, and a very happy Alan Pardew.
STR - Nikica Jelavic - Everton were looking in a ropey situation for a while on Saturday, but two goals from the Croatian hitman won the game for them. He is an all round finisher and seems to have a knack of scoring vital goals. What a buy he has been for David Moyes.
Subs - Mignolet, Wilson, McAnuff, Mirallas, Mata, Crouch, Fletcher
Manager - Andre Villas-Boas
Formation - 3-4-3
GK- Ben Foster - West Brom held on to a draw this weekend, and he was instrumental in doing so, pulling off a number of saves that arguably kept them in the game at stages. If only he could produce this kind of performance week in week out.
RB - Seamus Coleman - Quietly going about his business, Coleman is rarely given too much limelight, this weekend; that changed. He was lively down the flanks and caused a constant problem to the Southampton defence, his assist helped Jelavic score his header.
CB - Jan Vertonghen - This man was the catalyst to Spurs' first win at Old Trafford since BC. His 2nd minute goal started a first half domination from Tottenham that Manchester United never got over. Belgium's centre half has impressed during his initial few performances in the Premier League.
LB - Carl Jenkinson - Arsenal have revived their defence this year with the noticeable help of Steve Bould. Jenkinson is one who seems to have benefitted a great deal. Having endured the massacre at Old Trafford last season, where he was hopelessly exposed, Jenkinson hasn't missed much this season and his performance in a losing effort on Saturday suggested he has real future potential.
CDM - Paul Scholes - They may have lost, but this man never fails to amaze even the most trained of Footballing eyes. Another masterful performances which saw him complete 132 passes of 141 attempted means United's maestro looks as good as ever. He ran the performance for United but couldn't quite inspire them to a win.
CM - Nuri Sahin - Liverpool may well have pulled off a gem of a signing with this fella. He has had a similar impact to that of Eden Hazard in the Chelsea side. His goals and assists are already proving useful and another top quality performance sees him feature in our picks this week.
CM - Leon Osman - Often the unnoticed member of Everton's midfield, Osman had a teriffic week this week. He controlled the tempo well and proved a passing threat. To top it off, a goal meant that his side drew level in what could have game for the Toffees.
CAM - Moussa Dembele - Yet again, Belgian players seem to be dominating this Fantasy side. Dembele is another one of them, his first half performance was, as shown by Spurs' 2-0 Half-Time lead, unstoppable. His power coupled with outstanding ability on the ball means he is a threat to most sides.
FWD - Luis Suarez - There isn't a player that divides an opinion more than the Uruguayan this week, you could be forgiven for saying he has proven his critics wrong. A Hat-Trick of goals at his favourite venue of Carrow Road puts him top of the goalscoring charts and means he strolls into this week's team.
FWD -Demba Ba - Last but not least this week is Senegal's talisman striker. Last season, he experienced a dry spell thanks to the form of Papiss Cisse, but one of his goals at the weekend showed he has far from lost his touch, a fantastic finish added to a goal he knew little about meant a brace, and a very happy Alan Pardew.
STR - Nikica Jelavic - Everton were looking in a ropey situation for a while on Saturday, but two goals from the Croatian hitman won the game for them. He is an all round finisher and seems to have a knack of scoring vital goals. What a buy he has been for David Moyes.
Subs - Mignolet, Wilson, McAnuff, Mirallas, Mata, Crouch, Fletcher
Manager - Andre Villas-Boas
Monday, 24 September 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 5
The first Merseyside vs Manchester match since the Hillsborough report was always going to be a passionate affair but there were other games as well! Especially when you add in 'Handshakegate' City entertained Arsenal while Chelsea tried to hold onto their lead.
Formation - 4-1-2-1-2
GK- Mark Schwarzer- Had Schwarzer not been in such imperious form then Fulham may not well have held on against a creative Wigan side that began tearing Fulham apart as the final whistle approached, but the Aussie Guardian stood firm and would not be beaten.
RB- Rafael- A constant threat down the Liverpool flank for Manchester United capped off with a realisation that this man is in fact, Brazillian after all. A fantastic curler with ample finesse rounded off a stunning display.
CB- Jan Vertonghen- The Belgian man has a lot to live up to after all the hype in the Dutch league. He showed these admirers were correct with some excellent surging runs and even showed off his well rounded capabilities to play anywhere on the back four when he switched to left back to free up Gareth Bale.
CB- James Perch- Yet another player who can ply his trade in multiple positions, Perch began in defence before advancing to midfield enforcer then back to centre half, without this man Newcastle may well have lost their clean sheet.
LB- Ashley Cole- Ever roaming and ever continuing to display that Ryan Bertrand has an almighty task to displace one of the best Left backs in world football. His runs were a constant threat to Stoke and eventually paid off with a cheeky goal.
CDM- Mohammad Diame- The first lynchpin in this weeks TOTW. Diame was the hum coming from the Hammers' engine room and made it difficult for their opponents to get any free time on the ball, a role not many people notice but without him the West Ham midfield would look undoubtedly shakier.
CDM- Marouane Fellaini- Yet again the Belgian was constantly over the backs of the Swansea defence and unbeatable in the air, the power of the 'fro provided a somewhat controversial assist and another goal for his tally.
LAM- Gaston Ramirez- Southampton came alight this weekend and it had a large dependance on this man. He was at the centre of everything for the South Coast side, with constant threat and pinpoint passing.
RAM- Kevin Mirallas- The third of 4 Belgians in this team of the week and one of many Evertonians, Mirallas' pace was worrying Swansea all afternoon and only the woodwork denied this young man 2 goals opposed to his one.
CF- Romelu Lukaku- The final Belgian and an increasing talent, fast, strong and as on show on saturday, a great shooter. Romelu Lukaku picked up many admirers at RSC Anderlecht but if he continues as he did against Reading then he'll pick up many English ones too.
ST- Rickie Lambert- The Veteran, God amongst men returns and in the Premier league, he is already showing he can score just as many goals as he did the previous two season for the Saints. If this man had some more pace he would be the ultimate striker, as it is he does incredibly well with what pace he has and has some incredible ball control and vision, holding up play like the experienced player he is. To round off his display he got 2 well struck goals to add to this GAM's tally.
Subs- Anichebe, Cazorla, Howard, Clyne, Mata, Nolan, Fletcher
Manager- Nigel Adkins
Formation - 4-1-2-1-2
GK- Mark Schwarzer- Had Schwarzer not been in such imperious form then Fulham may not well have held on against a creative Wigan side that began tearing Fulham apart as the final whistle approached, but the Aussie Guardian stood firm and would not be beaten.
RB- Rafael- A constant threat down the Liverpool flank for Manchester United capped off with a realisation that this man is in fact, Brazillian after all. A fantastic curler with ample finesse rounded off a stunning display.
CB- Jan Vertonghen- The Belgian man has a lot to live up to after all the hype in the Dutch league. He showed these admirers were correct with some excellent surging runs and even showed off his well rounded capabilities to play anywhere on the back four when he switched to left back to free up Gareth Bale.
CB- James Perch- Yet another player who can ply his trade in multiple positions, Perch began in defence before advancing to midfield enforcer then back to centre half, without this man Newcastle may well have lost their clean sheet.
LB- Ashley Cole- Ever roaming and ever continuing to display that Ryan Bertrand has an almighty task to displace one of the best Left backs in world football. His runs were a constant threat to Stoke and eventually paid off with a cheeky goal.
CDM- Mohammad Diame- The first lynchpin in this weeks TOTW. Diame was the hum coming from the Hammers' engine room and made it difficult for their opponents to get any free time on the ball, a role not many people notice but without him the West Ham midfield would look undoubtedly shakier.
CDM- Marouane Fellaini- Yet again the Belgian was constantly over the backs of the Swansea defence and unbeatable in the air, the power of the 'fro provided a somewhat controversial assist and another goal for his tally.
LAM- Gaston Ramirez- Southampton came alight this weekend and it had a large dependance on this man. He was at the centre of everything for the South Coast side, with constant threat and pinpoint passing.
RAM- Kevin Mirallas- The third of 4 Belgians in this team of the week and one of many Evertonians, Mirallas' pace was worrying Swansea all afternoon and only the woodwork denied this young man 2 goals opposed to his one.
CF- Romelu Lukaku- The final Belgian and an increasing talent, fast, strong and as on show on saturday, a great shooter. Romelu Lukaku picked up many admirers at RSC Anderlecht but if he continues as he did against Reading then he'll pick up many English ones too.
ST- Rickie Lambert- The Veteran, God amongst men returns and in the Premier league, he is already showing he can score just as many goals as he did the previous two season for the Saints. If this man had some more pace he would be the ultimate striker, as it is he does incredibly well with what pace he has and has some incredible ball control and vision, holding up play like the experienced player he is. To round off his display he got 2 well struck goals to add to this GAM's tally.
Subs- Anichebe, Cazorla, Howard, Clyne, Mata, Nolan, Fletcher
Manager- Nigel Adkins
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Champions League - Group Stage Preview
It seems not long since we saw Chelsea hoist the trophy over their heads as Champions but, here we are, another year, another season and that means the best Footballing competition in the world will return. This year will, yet again, see some of the best clashes in World Football. Ladies and Gentlemen, get ready... The Champions League is back!
Starting off in the group stages, we will preview and review each stage of the competition as it progresses.
So we begin with Group A-
1-FC Porto
2-Dynamo Kiev
3-Paris Saint Germain
4-Dinamo Zagreb
1- Porto, one of only a few Portugese sides worth their salt in Europe, have a fairly tough group. Especially now they have lost their main threat in Hulk to Zenit for 50 million Euros. Porto will have to rely on Varela, Jackson Martinez and Joao Moutinho to provide the attacking flair required now. The hardest challenge is likely to be both games against Parisians, Paris Saint Germain who have never had such potential to decimate opposition. Other than that I can see Porto holding their own at home and providing a tough side to beat away from home.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio do Dragao (Cap. 50,399)
Manager - V.Pereira
Key Player - Joao Moutinho
2- Dynamo Kiev, they're becoming a rather frequent player in Europe nowadays, the problem they have is quality. They have a tough ground for opponents to play at given the temperatures in Kiev but away from home they will struggle. They have some good quality players; Taye Taiwo may be wanting to prove himself plus new signings Miguel Veloso and Niko Kranjcar will make up a talented midfield. They may be able to pick up a win against Porto in Kiev.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex (Cap. 70,050)
Manager - Y.Semin
Key Player - Miguel Veloso
3- Paris Saint Germain... The new big boys in the transfer market, buying who they want no matter what the cost, these will be a tough side for most teams to beat now and have Zlatan Ibrahimovic leading the line up front. Lavezzi providing the width and Pastore the killer pass, will surely create a goal happy side this season. Add Gregory Van der Wiel to an already solid backline and you have a threatening side. The toughest challenge will be holding their own away from home in Zagreb and Kiev where challenges will be harsh and brutal but I predict PSG will come out on top of their group.
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Parc des Princes (Cap. 48,712)
Manager - C.Ancelotti
Key Player - Javier Pastore
4- Dinamo Zagreb are the most successful side in Croatian Football ever. The Croatians are another side that will be difficult to go to and try and play football at. However the side is not particularly up to top flight European standards and will have troubles defending away from home. At home they will hope the home crowd becomes a twelfth man and become a major player. Unfortunately for such a prestigious side in Croatia I'm afraid I cant see them getting past the group stage.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Maksimir Stadion (Cap. 38,923)
Manager - A.Cacic
Key Player - Domagoj Vida
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Zagreb vs Porto --- PORTO WIN
PSG vs Kiev --- PSG WIN
3 Oct
Kiev vs Zagreb --- KIEV WIN
Porto vs PSG --- DRAW
24 Oct
Porto vs Kiev --- PORTO WIN
Zagreb vs PSG --- PSG WIN
6 Nov
PSG vs Zagreb --- PSG WIN
Kiev vs Porto --- DRAW
21 Nov
Porto vs Zagreb --- PORTO WIN
Kiev vs PSG --- PSG WIN
4 Dec
Zagreb vs Kiev --- KIEV WIN
PSG vs Porto --- PSG WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Paris-Saint-Germain
2- FC Porto
3- Dynamo Kiev
4- Dinamo Zagreb
Starting off in the group stages, we will preview and review each stage of the competition as it progresses.
So we begin with Group A-
1-FC Porto
2-Dynamo Kiev
3-Paris Saint Germain
4-Dinamo Zagreb
1- Porto, one of only a few Portugese sides worth their salt in Europe, have a fairly tough group. Especially now they have lost their main threat in Hulk to Zenit for 50 million Euros. Porto will have to rely on Varela, Jackson Martinez and Joao Moutinho to provide the attacking flair required now. The hardest challenge is likely to be both games against Parisians, Paris Saint Germain who have never had such potential to decimate opposition. Other than that I can see Porto holding their own at home and providing a tough side to beat away from home.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio do Dragao (Cap. 50,399)
Manager - V.Pereira
Key Player - Joao Moutinho
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex (Cap. 70,050)
Manager - Y.Semin
Key Player - Miguel Veloso
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Parc des Princes (Cap. 48,712)
Manager - C.Ancelotti
Key Player - Javier Pastore
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Maksimir Stadion (Cap. 38,923)
Manager - A.Cacic
Key Player - Domagoj Vida
18 Sep
Zagreb vs Porto --- PORTO WIN
PSG vs Kiev --- PSG WIN
3 Oct
Kiev vs Zagreb --- KIEV WIN
Porto vs PSG --- DRAW
24 Oct
Porto vs Kiev --- PORTO WIN
Zagreb vs PSG --- PSG WIN
6 Nov
PSG vs Zagreb --- PSG WIN
Kiev vs Porto --- DRAW
21 Nov
Porto vs Zagreb --- PORTO WIN
Kiev vs PSG --- PSG WIN
4 Dec
Zagreb vs Kiev --- KIEV WIN
PSG vs Porto --- PSG WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Paris-Saint-Germain
2- FC Porto
3- Dynamo Kiev
4- Dinamo Zagreb
Final Whistle - This group will be a good watch, if only for the football you are likely to see from PSG and Porto. Kiev and Zagreb have potential to cause an upset but I dont expect anything major this time, expecially the Ukranians with some astute signings, but I won't be expecting any surprises from them.
Next up in this Champions League group stage is Group B. This one contains the first British team in these previews, Arsenal.
1-Arsenal
2-FC Schalke 04
3-Olympiacos
4-Montpellier Herault
1- Arsenal, the first British side in our previews. They haven't bought in many new players but the players they have bought have been good purchases especially Santi Cazorla. The Gunners have started off slowly in the Premier league but have been rock solid at the back due to the new assistant coach there. Arsenal should come out easy group winners with the only tough fixture the away leg to Schalke where Klaas Jan Huntelaar will punish any mistakes. A favourable draw in the Round of 16 may see them make the quarter finals but I see it being a step too far for the Gunners.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - A.Wenger
Stadium - Emirates Stadium (Cap. 60,361)
Key Player - Santi Cazorla
2- Schalke have a formidable team with proven talent and youngsters alike. Klaas Jan Huntelaar went quietly about his business last year with all hype pointed towards Mario Gomez. Huntelaar was the Bundesliga's top scorer and is going to be tough for any side to handle. Youngsters Draxler and Holtby are providing flair in attacking midfield positions and Papadopoulous holds the line at the back of a 4-2-3-1 formation. However I predict that Schalke will run into trouble away from home especially at the Emirates and in Greece. Therefore I predict they will finish 2nd to a resilient Arsenal side in this group.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - H.Stevens
Stadium - Veltins Arena (Cap. 61,673)
Key player - Klaas Jan Huntelaar
3- Olympiacos, the Greek champions, have lost their most valuable asset in Kevin Mirallas. Their secret weapon is likely to come at the feet of young Giannis Fetfatzidis who's pace and skill have drawn comparisons to Hazard and Messi. This Greek variant will bring plenty of service to Djebbour up front. Olympiacos will struggle away from home apart from potentially Montpellier, However Olympiacos traditionally take points off the Gunners at home. The Greeks will have a hard time cracking both the German and British sides and therefore I predict they will again falter at the Group stage and scrap to qualify for the Europa League at best.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Manager - L.Jardim
Stadium - Kiraiskakis Stadium (Cap. 32,115)
Key player - Giannis Fetfatzidis
4- The unexpected champions of France, Montpellier were surprisingly successful due to a fantastic partnership between Belhanda and Giroud with the latter becoming the top scorer in France and a solid defence led by Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, their young captain. However Montpellier sold Giroud to Arsenal, so expect an... unsavoury reception in France for Arsenal. Without Giroud, Belhanda has very few outlets and Montpellier have no proven goal scorer. Thanks to these reasons I can't see Montpellier being much of a threat to anyone this season as shown by their mid table position in Ligue 1 for the moment. Herault and Olympiacos will fight it out for the Europa League Qualification.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Manager - R.Girard
Stadium - Stade de la Mosson (Cap. 32,900)
Key Player - Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Montpellier vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Olympiacos vs Schalke --- SCHALKE WIN
3 Oct
Schalke vs Montpellier --- SCHALKE WIN
Arsenal vs Olympiacos --- ARSENAL WIN
24 Oct
Arsenal vs Schalke --- ARSENAL WIN
Montpellier vs Olympiacos --- MONTPELLIER WIN
6 Nov
Schalke vs Arsenal --- SCHALKE WIN
Olympiacos vs Montpellier --- OLYMPIACOS WIN
21 Nov
Arsenal vs Montpellier --- ARSENAL WIN
Schalke vs Olympiacos --- SCHALKE WIN
4 Dec
Montpellier vs Schalke --- DRAW
Olympiacos vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Arsenal
2- FC Schalke
3- Montpellier
4- Olympiacos
Final Whistle- With a British side in, this will be one of the groups that you can't see many upsets in. It will be worth a fair watch due to Schalke's lethality and some exciting youngsters getting a go. Watch to see if Olympiacos can pick up that home win against Arsenal.
Group C holds the minnow for which we will show undying support for throughout the competition- RSC ANDERLECHT!
1- AC Milan
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- Malaga
4- Zenit St Petersburg
1- AC Milan; once the undisputed champions of Italy, are nothing more of a shell of what they once were. No Ibra and no Thiago Silva. All hopes rely on Pato, El Sharaawy and Pazzini up front. The somewhat debatable temperament of Kevin Prince-Boateng only serves as another thorn in the side of the Rosoneri. With poor performances in the Serie A Milan will struggle in this seasons Champions League barring some magic. The San Siro will Milan's best bet for success this time and hoping that teams don't dismantle a weak back line that focuses on Mexes' fitness. However, Robinho will be awkward for most teams but can he carry Milan? I would think not.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - San Siro (Cap. 80,018)
Manager - M.Allegri
Key Player - Phillippe Mexes
2- RSC Anderlecht, the blog's selected minnow for this Champions League. The Belgian Champions and a very diverse team. They have a rather large lad up front in the form of the prolific Dieumerci Mbokani! The 6ft 1inch striker hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo, impressive we must admit. Anderlecht hold a very creative and pacey midfield featuring Argentinian Matias Suarez, the constant creative front for Anderlecht and he tends to run the attacking portion of the field with quick feet and darting runs. A Serbian winger in Jovanovic the former Liverpool man, and the other winger, Sacha Kljestan, who is very quick, make up the wingmen. The lynch pin holding midfielder is Lucas Biglia, he is the key to a good Anderlecht performance. Anderlecht are quite obviously the team to beat in this years tournament and many teams will find it hard to get past the class keeper in the form of Proto!
We hope that our minnows will be able to advance to the knockout stages but realistically the Belgians may come up against some tough teams. It is entirely possible that the best they can hope for is a draw or two.
Expeted Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Constant Vanden Stock Stadium (Cap. 28,763)
Manager - J.Van Den Brom
Key Player - Matias Suarez
3- Malaga are the unknown spenders of Europe, however this preseason they failed to buy any players and in fact sold their most dependable and dangerous player in Santi Cazorla to Arsenal in the midst of a financial dispute. Malaga are new to the Champions League and may be overwhelmed by the occasion. Malaga is a tough place to go but I can't see the new boys advancing past the group stage without their talismanic architect Cazorla. The frontline also looks a bit lightweight after the departure of Salomon Rondon to Russia so you'd be hard pushed to find a recognised scorer in this side. I will expect them to pick up some points at home and to give a good fight away but the lack of experience and few household names, I can't see them advancing far.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - La Rosaleda (Cap. 29,500)
Manager - M.Pellegrini
Key Player - Isco
4- Zenit St Petersburg; the fourth seed of the group. This is usually meant to mean they are the worst side of the group, but in this case I have to say that Zenit is the best side of this group. The addition of Hulk and Axel Witsel will only seek to prove it. With creative prescence in the shape of Portugese Danny and now Axel Witsel; Aleksandr Kerzhakov will have plenty to feed off and with his ability will likely convert any chances that fall his way. The Russians have steel at the back with Bruno Alves always a formidable opponent in the air while Anyukov and Criscito will roam up the pitch providing support for attacking players. I predict Zenit to comfortably beat most of those in this group and the Russian champions should win it convincingly.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Petrovsky Stadium (Cap. 21,570)
Manager - L.Spaletti
Key Player - Hulk
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Milan vs Anderlecht --- DRAW
Malaga vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
3 Oct
Anderlecht vs Malaga --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Milan --- ZENIT WIN
24 Oct
Zenit vs Anderlecht --- ZENIT WIN
Malaga vs Milan --- MILAN WIN
6 Nov
Anderlecht vs Zenit ---DRAW
Milan vs Malaga --- MILAN WIN
21 Nov
Anderlecht vs Milan ---ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Malaga --- ZENIT WIN
4 Dec
Malaga vs Anderlecht --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Milan vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Zenit St Petersburg
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- AC Milan
4- Malaga CF
Final Whistle- With our minnows in this group we will be watching this intently, cheering them on every step of the way, but with the major additions Zenit have made they will certainly be worth a watch as they attempt to decimate all opposition. This will also be a fun group to watch as we gaze at what is possibly the worst Milan side in many years. Up the Purple and Whites!
Welcome to Group D; the Group of Death! 4 Champions joined together in one group. Only 2 can proceed. Who will it be?
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
1- The Spanish champions may finally have found a group that will prove tricky to get out of for a change. When you add to this a very below par start to the La Liga campaign, they may find it tough. The experience and talent in the Madrid side should get them out on top and the Santiago Bernabeu is a tough place for even the mighty Barcelona. Expect Ronaldo to be raring to go to prove himself against the best of the best. The toughest test Madrid will face is probably an away tie at Manchester City. The English champions are unbeaten in League fixtures here since 2010. The other away clashes will prove tough as well with each side champions. However a vast amount of experience and The Special One at the helm will see Madrid top the group.
Expected Progression - Semi-Final
Stadium - Santiago Bernabeu (Cap. 85,454)
Manager - Jose Mourinho
Key Player - Cristiano Ronaldo
2- The Mighty Manchester City! My team, and champions of England and Wales. Unbeaten at home in the league for well over a year and a side matched by the best of the best. Its rather unfortunate therefore that Manchester City have drawn 3 champions in their group of death. With Roberto Mancini at the helm the blues gained their first ever Premier League Trophy. Carlos Tevez has returned triumphantly to the fold and been a huge influence in the past few games for City, chasing down otherwise lost causes to great effect. I predict that Manchester City will be formidable at home and incredibly hard to match. The hardest challenge will arise when my blues travel to the Bernabeu on the first day to an incredible Madrid side filled with talent. City haven't looked at their best so far and will need to improve on their league start. But I will also be expecting the Dortmund away game to be a tricky task. Unfortunately I can't see my beloved City pipping Madrid to top spot in this group but I expect them to advance to the next stage in the Champions league, assuming players like David Silva and Sergio Aguero can return to top form.
Expected Progression - Quarter-Finals
Stadium - Etihad Stadium (Cap. 47,726)
Manager - Roberto Mancini
Key Player - Sergio Aguero
3- Borussia Dortmund, conquerors of the terrors of Germany, Bayern Munich, and champions of the Bundesliga. Not a mean feat by any stretch. With talent such as Lewandowski and Gotze up front with Hummels and Subotic in defence, its no wonder why they won the Bundesliga. The Signal Iduna Park is a huge stadium and is incredibly noisy when full so expect a resilient and difficult side to match in an away clash. As talented as this team is I believe they would advance out of any other group with ease, but this is no ordinary group and, even with all of the talent involved in this side. Unfortunately I have to say the German Champions won't progress past the group stage this year. I expect them to qualify for the Europa League and to challenge for that particular title.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Westfalenstadion (Cap. 80,720)
Manager - J.Klopp
Key Player - Mario Gotze
4- Ajax, ever the champions of Holland and a trophy cabinet filled to the brim, will find it difficult this year, it won't be from the occasion though. Ajax have an incredible Champions League pedigree, it is just the talent of opponent that will see Ajax struggle to register even a few points this year. Last year they beat Manchester United at Old Trafford which isn't easy but the Bernabeu, Signal Iduna and Etihad stadiums will be fortresses this time round. Ajax do have class in their ranks even with the departure of Van Der Wiel to PSG in the summer. Ryan Babel can score screamers on his day and the Champions League is his regular place to do them, so the other champions will need to watch out.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Amsterdam Arena (Cap. 52,342)
Manager - F.De Boer
Key Player - Cristian Eriksen
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Madrid vs City --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs Ajax --- DORTMUND WIN
3 Oct
Ajax vs Madrid --- MADRID WIN
City vs Dortmund --- CITY WIN
24 Oct
Dortmund vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs City --- CITY WIN
6 Nov
Madrid vs Dortmund --- MADRID WIN
City vs Ajax --- CITY WIN
21 Nov
City vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs Dortmund --- DORTMUND WIN
4 Dec
Madrid vs Ajax --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs City --- DORTMUND WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
Final Whistle- Definitely a group for everyone to watch, with 4 major players in European football all joined in one group. If Manchester City fail to qualify, it should be Dortmund that take the second spot. You shouldn't even think of missing such quality as Aguero, Tevez, Ronaldo, Ozil, Gotze, Hummels and Eriksen all put together on one field of battle, watch this space. I'd say City will just pip Dortmund.
Reigning Champions Chesea return to defend their title in Group E, joined by Ukranian side Shakhtar, Italian unbeaten Champions Juventus and Danish side Nordsjaelland. Can Roberto Di Matteo mastermind a successful campaign yet again?
1- Chelsea
2- Shakhtar Donetsk
3- Juventus
4- Nordsjaelland
1- Can Roberto Di Matteo and his strengthened Chelsea squad mount another challenge for the Cup? Summer spending to the tune of £90million suggests they mean business; The Hazard Bros, Marin, Oscar, Azpilicueta and Moses add to an already packed squad. Didier Drogba has left but will Fernando Torres 'hear the drums' and fire in the vital goals that the Ivorian has left behind? We think they can expect to top the group, but it'll be tough at times, Shakhtar and Juventus will be very trick places to go and they may only pick up a draw or two there, but expect them to win the rest of their matches.
Expected Progression - Quarter Final
Stadium - Stamford Bridge (Cap. 41,837)
Manager - R.Di Matteo
Key Player - Eden Hazard
2- A club policy that means the squad is made up nearly as many Brazilians as it is homegrown players. They kept hold of their key players during the transfer window, fending off interest from Tottenham for Willian. As a result, the skill levels are sky high and stubborn home form will challenge any visitors to Donetsk. We predict that it could come down to a battle between them and Juve for the 2nd Qualifying place. This time, they may just be beaten, but they will easily progress to the Europa League.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Donbass Arena (Cap. 52,187)
Manager - M.Lucescu
Key Player - Willian
3- Italian Giants Juventus are back with a bang. After an unbeaten season in Serie A and a march the title, the Old Lady have spent big over the Summer and will chalenge the top sides this year. Additions such as Kwadwo Asamoah, Mauricio Isla, Lucio, Nicklas Bendtner and Paul Pogba mean they have a strong side and good depth. The games against Chelsea could be tricky, but minnows Nordsjaelland should yield 6 points and a win and a draw against Donetsk should see them through.
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Juventus Stadium (Cap. 41,000)
Manager - M.Carrera
Key Player - Andrea Pirlo
4- What do we know about the newcomers from Denmark? In all honesty, not very much. The Wild Tigers were founded in 1991 as a result of a merger between two clubs and won the Danish Super League for the first time in the 2011-12 season. Realistically, they have done well to qualify and can't hope for much, but they're likely to be spirited at home. Star player and Captain Nikolai Stockholm is an accomplished player and will provide possible chances for John, on loan from FC Twente, to finish off.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Farum Park (Cap. 10,100)
Manager - K.Hjulmand
Key Player - Nikolai Stockholm
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Chelsea vs Juventus --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Nordsjaelland --- SHAKHTAR WIN
2 Oct
Nordsjaelland vs Chelsea --- CHELSEA WIN
Juventus vs Shakhtar --- JUVE WIN
23 Oct
Shakhtar vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Juventus vs Nordsjaelland --- JUVE WIN
7 Nov
Chelsea vs Shakhtar --- CHELSEA WIN
Nordsjaelland vs Juventus --- JUVE WIN
20 Nov
Juventus vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Nordsjaelland vs Shakhtar --- SHAKHTAR WIN
5 Dec
Chelsea vs Nordsjaelland --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Juventus --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Chelsea
2- Juventus
3- Shakhtar Donetsk
4- Nordsjaelland
Final Whistle - So, Di Matteo's men will win the Group but will face some challenges along the way. Juventus should overcome Shakhtar in the battle for second place and the Ukranians will have to settle for a Europa League place. The minnows from Denmark could, unfortunately, be on the end of a few heavy defeats, expecially away from home. But, this competition can be seen as experience for them.
German giants Bayern will be expected to rule this Group F, at home they could be unbeatable and away from home they're also strong. Valencia will provide test for any side and BATE will be a stubborn task when they play in Belarus. Lille have lost their star player in Eden Hazard and could struggle.
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
1- After progressing all the way to the Final last year, only to lose to Chelsea, Bayern are back this season and they look a menacing side. Additions such as Xherdan Shaqiri, Javi Martinez and Mario Mandzukic mean they have even more quality in their side. Often in the last few years, if you could criticise Bayern, it would be because their starting lineup was world class, but their bench could be below par. Not this year, they have depth and that is a scary prospect. As a warning, they have started their Bundesliga campaign in fine form, easing past their first few challengers. Mario Gomez, their talisman striker, hasn't even started a game. He had ankle surgery in August and as yet, there is no date set for his return, he will be a miss for the side.
Expected Progression - Winners.
Stadium - Allianz Arena (Cap. 71,000)
Manager - J.Heynckes
Key Player - Toni Kroos
2- Valencia, forever the side that comes just behind the might of Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga, have yet again qualified for the Champions League campaign. A summer spending spree means they could cause some upsets to big sides, should they come up against them. Aly Cissokho will be a good addition to the defence from Lyon aswell as Joao Pereira from Sporting Lisbon. Roberto Soldado can be expected to finish off any chances that may arise upfront.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Mestalla (Cap. 55,000)
Manager - M.Pellegrino
Key Player - Roberto Soldado
3- Lille lost their star player in Eden Hazard over the Summer and have replaced him with Salomon Kalou from Chelsea. Realistically, they can't expect to challenge Bayern or Valencia but they may prove to be an awkward away tie on some occasions. Garcia's men and BATE Borisov can be expected to fight it out for the Europe League spot, with Lille expected to grab it.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Grand Stade Metropole (Cap. 50,816)
Manager - R.Garcia
Key Player - Salomon Kalou
4- BATE are almost certainly the minnows of this Group, their stadium capacity of 5000 suggests exactly that. However, they could be a tricky opponent at the City Stadium, as they have proven in the past. Unfortunately their away form can only really be described as dire, after rarely challenging the opposition at all away from home. Their captain is also their key player, Dzmitry Likhtarovich is an accomplished midfielder.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - City Stadtum (Cap. 5,402)
Manager - V.Goncharenko
Key Player - Dzmitry Likhtarovic
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Bayern vs Valencia --- BAYERN WIN
Lille vs BATE --- LILLE WIN
2 Oct
BATE vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
23 Oct
Lille vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
BATE vs Valencia --- VALENCIA WIN
7 Nov
Valencia vs BATE --- VALENCIA WIN
Bayern vs Lille --- BAYERN WIN
20 Nov
Valencia vs Bayern --- DRAW
BATE vs Lille --- DRAW
5 Dec
Bayern vs BATE --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
Final Whistle - You really can't see past Bayern for this group, the perennial nearlymen Valencia will again get close to the top spot and finish second. Nothing much canbe expected from Lille or BATE and it may well be a direct scrap between those two for a Europa League spot.
Spanish giants Barcelona are the biggest name in Group G, joined by Benfica, Spartak and SPL outfit Celtic. Can Tito Vilanova mastermind a title winning challenge?
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
1- Barcelona, the giants of Spain. The have lost their companion in Pep Guardiola, the legendary coach, but nevertheless, they ooze quality and Tito Vilanova is no mug. The former assistant has taken over the reigns and looks right at home managing this side. Additions of Alex Song and Jordi Alba will only strengthen the already brimming side and we can see them easily making the semi-finals. Iniesta and Xavi are still there to form the three muscateers with Lionel Messi. These three score and assist a ridiculous amount of goals and I don't see this coming to an end. Infact, I predict they will make it all the way to the final, only to lose there to Bayern.
Expected Progression - Finalists
Stadium - Nou Camp (Cap. 96,636)
Manager - Tito Vilanova
Key Player - Lionel Messi
2- Benfica are here again, they appear to be the side most frequently able to spring surprises. After selling what was arguably their most valuable asset in Axel Witsel over the Summer, they will be slightly worse off. But, a side still full of talent such as Gaitan, Cardozo, Salvio, Aimar and Garay means they should qualfy for the next stage. Barcelona may prove a step too far, but points against Spartak and Celtic can be expected if not certain.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio da Luz (Cap. 65,647)
Manager - J.Jesus
Key Player - Nicolas Gaitan
3- Spartak Moscow are a side we don't know too much about. Their huge stadium means there will be an intresting atmosphere for a side to face whenever they play in Moscow, however, it is rarely even half full. An accumulation of good players means they could prove a threat to the other sides in the Group. The likes of Romulo, Demy de Zeeuw, Kim Kallstrom, Jose Jurado and Aidan McGeady make up a very good midfield and with the Brazilian star striker Welliton upfront, they have a finisher. They should beat Celtic for the Europa eague spot but if Benfica don't perform, they will qualify for the next stage.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Luzhniki Stadium (Cap. 78,360)
Manager - S.Parshivkyuk
Key Player - Romulo
4- Celtic have found themselves in a tough Group for their return to the Champions League and realistically, their expectations cannot be high. Miku (on loan from Getafe) could prove to be a good goalscoring option aswell as their normal strikers Gary Hooper and Giorgios Samaras. Joe Ledley is likely to run the midfield for Lennon's side, however, you see them being dominated in posession by the better passing sides. This might be a year to gain some European experience for the Celtic men, but they will be a spirited side playing at Celtic Park.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Celtic Park (Cap. 60,832)
Manager - N.Lennon
Key Player - Gary Hooper
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Barcelona vs Spartak --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Benfica --- BENFICA WIN
2 Oct
Benfica vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Celtic --- SPARTAK WIN
23 Oct
Barcelona vs Celtic ---BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Benfica --- DRAW
7 Nov
Celtic vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Spartak --- BENFICA WIN
20 Nov
Spartak vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Celtic --- BENFICA WIN
5 Dec
Barcelona vs Benfica --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Spartak --- SPARTAK WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
Final Whistle - Barcelona will win this group, quite easily, but the question is who will be second? We think Benfica have enough class and experience to get the second spot. As they have shown in previous campaigns, they are capable of springing an upset, but if they fail to gel, Spartak may nick the second place.
Group H, on paper, looks a good draw for Manchester United with Braga, Galatasaray and Romanian minnows Cluj. What is certain is that United will witness some of the most unique venues in Europe.
1- Manchester United
2- Braga
3- Galatasaray
4- CFR Cluj
1- United, the Champions of a few years back, will attempt to do it again this year and with a strong squad supplemented by a few world class arrivals, they look a threat. The Summer additions of Robin Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa provide a goalscorer and someone that can create the opportunities. Added to this, they have a fit and rejuvinated Nemanja Vidic to run their defence, which was the bane of the campaign last season. Away games at Galatasaray and Braga could be awkward ones but I see United having enough.
Expected Progression - Semi-Finals
Stadium - Old Trafford (Cap. 75,765)
Manager - A.Ferguson
Key Player - Nemanja Vidic
2- Galatasaray have built a squad with a few good quality players. Repatriating Hamit Altintop over the Summer was an excellent decision for them and now, they mave have enough to gain a second place spot for the Knockout round. Add to this the Brazilian Felipe Melo, Emmanuel Eboue, Johan Elmander and Albert Riera and they should beat Braga and Cluj to qualify. The Turk Telecom Arena will be a terrible away day for any side, a fiery atmosphere, sometimes intimidating will be a challenge.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Turk Telecom Arena (Cap. 52,652)
Manager - F.Terim
Key Player - Hamit Altintop
3- Braga play in a picturesque stadium built into the side of a rock face. It is a tough place to travel for a number of sides and it should be the again. An equally interesting squad is made up of 11 Brazilians, a feat that is tough to match. Their squad will therefore be adept passers and a lively bunch, but they may not have the experience or quality to close out games at this level. Their key player comes in the form of on loan Athletico Madrid player Ruben Micael, he and Ruben Amorim will be likely to run their midfield.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Estadio Municipal (Cap. 30,184)
Manager - J.Peseiro
Key Player - Ruben Micael
4- Cluj, the Romanian minnows from Vampire country in Transylvania, will be expected to be the whipping boys of this group. However, a unique home stadium and an equally odd atmosphere mean it may be a challenge for some sides. Their central defensive partner and Captain, Cadu is good, solid player. He will attempt to run their defence, something that will be vital if they are to stop conceding goals like they have in past Chmpions League campaigns.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Stadional Dr.Constantin Radulescu (Cap. 24,000)
Manager - I.Andone
Key Player - Cadu
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Man.United vs Galatasaray --- UNITED WIN
Braga vs Cluj --- BRAGA WIN
2 Oct
Cluj vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Braga --- GALATASARAY WIN
23 Oct
Man.United vs Braga --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Cluj --- GALATASARAY WIN
7 Nov
Braga vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Cluj vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
20 Nov
Galatasaray vs Man.United --- DRAW
Cluj vs Braga --- CLUJ WIN
5 Dec
Man.United vs Cluj ---UNITED WIN
Braga vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Manchester United
2- Galatasaray
3- Braga
4- CFR Cluj
Final Whistle - Aslong as they aren't complacent, United should win this final Group G. Galatasaray have a few good players, that should be enough to see them pick up the second place. Braga is a tough place to go and so I expect them to scrape into the Europa League qualification spot. Cluj could cause an upset or two at home, but I don't see them challenging.
Next up in this Champions League group stage is Group B. This one contains the first British team in these previews, Arsenal.
1-Arsenal
2-FC Schalke 04
3-Olympiacos
4-Montpellier Herault
1- Arsenal, the first British side in our previews. They haven't bought in many new players but the players they have bought have been good purchases especially Santi Cazorla. The Gunners have started off slowly in the Premier league but have been rock solid at the back due to the new assistant coach there. Arsenal should come out easy group winners with the only tough fixture the away leg to Schalke where Klaas Jan Huntelaar will punish any mistakes. A favourable draw in the Round of 16 may see them make the quarter finals but I see it being a step too far for the Gunners.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - A.Wenger
Stadium - Emirates Stadium (Cap. 60,361)
Key Player - Santi Cazorla
2- Schalke have a formidable team with proven talent and youngsters alike. Klaas Jan Huntelaar went quietly about his business last year with all hype pointed towards Mario Gomez. Huntelaar was the Bundesliga's top scorer and is going to be tough for any side to handle. Youngsters Draxler and Holtby are providing flair in attacking midfield positions and Papadopoulous holds the line at the back of a 4-2-3-1 formation. However I predict that Schalke will run into trouble away from home especially at the Emirates and in Greece. Therefore I predict they will finish 2nd to a resilient Arsenal side in this group.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Manager - H.Stevens
Stadium - Veltins Arena (Cap. 61,673)
Key player - Klaas Jan Huntelaar
3- Olympiacos, the Greek champions, have lost their most valuable asset in Kevin Mirallas. Their secret weapon is likely to come at the feet of young Giannis Fetfatzidis who's pace and skill have drawn comparisons to Hazard and Messi. This Greek variant will bring plenty of service to Djebbour up front. Olympiacos will struggle away from home apart from potentially Montpellier, However Olympiacos traditionally take points off the Gunners at home. The Greeks will have a hard time cracking both the German and British sides and therefore I predict they will again falter at the Group stage and scrap to qualify for the Europa League at best.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Manager - L.Jardim
Stadium - Kiraiskakis Stadium (Cap. 32,115)
Key player - Giannis Fetfatzidis
4- The unexpected champions of France, Montpellier were surprisingly successful due to a fantastic partnership between Belhanda and Giroud with the latter becoming the top scorer in France and a solid defence led by Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, their young captain. However Montpellier sold Giroud to Arsenal, so expect an... unsavoury reception in France for Arsenal. Without Giroud, Belhanda has very few outlets and Montpellier have no proven goal scorer. Thanks to these reasons I can't see Montpellier being much of a threat to anyone this season as shown by their mid table position in Ligue 1 for the moment. Herault and Olympiacos will fight it out for the Europa League Qualification.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Manager - R.Girard
Stadium - Stade de la Mosson (Cap. 32,900)
Key Player - Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa
18 Sep
Montpellier vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Olympiacos vs Schalke --- SCHALKE WIN
3 Oct
Schalke vs Montpellier --- SCHALKE WIN
Arsenal vs Olympiacos --- ARSENAL WIN
24 Oct
Arsenal vs Schalke --- ARSENAL WIN
Montpellier vs Olympiacos --- MONTPELLIER WIN
6 Nov
Schalke vs Arsenal --- SCHALKE WIN
Olympiacos vs Montpellier --- OLYMPIACOS WIN
21 Nov
Arsenal vs Montpellier --- ARSENAL WIN
Schalke vs Olympiacos --- SCHALKE WIN
4 Dec
Montpellier vs Schalke --- DRAW
Olympiacos vs Arsenal --- ARSENAL WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Arsenal
2- FC Schalke
3- Montpellier
4- Olympiacos
Final Whistle- With a British side in, this will be one of the groups that you can't see many upsets in. It will be worth a fair watch due to Schalke's lethality and some exciting youngsters getting a go. Watch to see if Olympiacos can pick up that home win against Arsenal.
Group C holds the minnow for which we will show undying support for throughout the competition- RSC ANDERLECHT!
1- AC Milan
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- Malaga
4- Zenit St Petersburg
1- AC Milan; once the undisputed champions of Italy, are nothing more of a shell of what they once were. No Ibra and no Thiago Silva. All hopes rely on Pato, El Sharaawy and Pazzini up front. The somewhat debatable temperament of Kevin Prince-Boateng only serves as another thorn in the side of the Rosoneri. With poor performances in the Serie A Milan will struggle in this seasons Champions League barring some magic. The San Siro will Milan's best bet for success this time and hoping that teams don't dismantle a weak back line that focuses on Mexes' fitness. However, Robinho will be awkward for most teams but can he carry Milan? I would think not.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - San Siro (Cap. 80,018)
Manager - M.Allegri
Key Player - Phillippe Mexes
2- RSC Anderlecht, the blog's selected minnow for this Champions League. The Belgian Champions and a very diverse team. They have a rather large lad up front in the form of the prolific Dieumerci Mbokani! The 6ft 1inch striker hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo, impressive we must admit. Anderlecht hold a very creative and pacey midfield featuring Argentinian Matias Suarez, the constant creative front for Anderlecht and he tends to run the attacking portion of the field with quick feet and darting runs. A Serbian winger in Jovanovic the former Liverpool man, and the other winger, Sacha Kljestan, who is very quick, make up the wingmen. The lynch pin holding midfielder is Lucas Biglia, he is the key to a good Anderlecht performance. Anderlecht are quite obviously the team to beat in this years tournament and many teams will find it hard to get past the class keeper in the form of Proto!
We hope that our minnows will be able to advance to the knockout stages but realistically the Belgians may come up against some tough teams. It is entirely possible that the best they can hope for is a draw or two.
Expeted Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Constant Vanden Stock Stadium (Cap. 28,763)
Manager - J.Van Den Brom
Key Player - Matias Suarez
3- Malaga are the unknown spenders of Europe, however this preseason they failed to buy any players and in fact sold their most dependable and dangerous player in Santi Cazorla to Arsenal in the midst of a financial dispute. Malaga are new to the Champions League and may be overwhelmed by the occasion. Malaga is a tough place to go but I can't see the new boys advancing past the group stage without their talismanic architect Cazorla. The frontline also looks a bit lightweight after the departure of Salomon Rondon to Russia so you'd be hard pushed to find a recognised scorer in this side. I will expect them to pick up some points at home and to give a good fight away but the lack of experience and few household names, I can't see them advancing far.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - La Rosaleda (Cap. 29,500)
Manager - M.Pellegrini
Key Player - Isco
4- Zenit St Petersburg; the fourth seed of the group. This is usually meant to mean they are the worst side of the group, but in this case I have to say that Zenit is the best side of this group. The addition of Hulk and Axel Witsel will only seek to prove it. With creative prescence in the shape of Portugese Danny and now Axel Witsel; Aleksandr Kerzhakov will have plenty to feed off and with his ability will likely convert any chances that fall his way. The Russians have steel at the back with Bruno Alves always a formidable opponent in the air while Anyukov and Criscito will roam up the pitch providing support for attacking players. I predict Zenit to comfortably beat most of those in this group and the Russian champions should win it convincingly.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Petrovsky Stadium (Cap. 21,570)
Manager - L.Spaletti
Key Player - Hulk
Fixtures and Predictions
18 Sep
Milan vs Anderlecht --- DRAW
Malaga vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
3 Oct
Anderlecht vs Malaga --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Milan --- ZENIT WIN
24 Oct
Zenit vs Anderlecht --- ZENIT WIN
Malaga vs Milan --- MILAN WIN
6 Nov
Anderlecht vs Zenit ---DRAW
Milan vs Malaga --- MILAN WIN
21 Nov
Anderlecht vs Milan ---ANDERLECHT WIN
Zenit vs Malaga --- ZENIT WIN
4 Dec
Malaga vs Anderlecht --- ANDERLECHT WIN
Milan vs Zenit --- ZENIT WIN
Predicted Table-
1- Zenit St Petersburg
2- RSC Anderlecht
3- AC Milan
4- Malaga CF
Final Whistle- With our minnows in this group we will be watching this intently, cheering them on every step of the way, but with the major additions Zenit have made they will certainly be worth a watch as they attempt to decimate all opposition. This will also be a fun group to watch as we gaze at what is possibly the worst Milan side in many years. Up the Purple and Whites!
Welcome to Group D; the Group of Death! 4 Champions joined together in one group. Only 2 can proceed. Who will it be?
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
1- The Spanish champions may finally have found a group that will prove tricky to get out of for a change. When you add to this a very below par start to the La Liga campaign, they may find it tough. The experience and talent in the Madrid side should get them out on top and the Santiago Bernabeu is a tough place for even the mighty Barcelona. Expect Ronaldo to be raring to go to prove himself against the best of the best. The toughest test Madrid will face is probably an away tie at Manchester City. The English champions are unbeaten in League fixtures here since 2010. The other away clashes will prove tough as well with each side champions. However a vast amount of experience and The Special One at the helm will see Madrid top the group.
Expected Progression - Semi-Final
Stadium - Santiago Bernabeu (Cap. 85,454)
Manager - Jose Mourinho
Key Player - Cristiano Ronaldo
2- The Mighty Manchester City! My team, and champions of England and Wales. Unbeaten at home in the league for well over a year and a side matched by the best of the best. Its rather unfortunate therefore that Manchester City have drawn 3 champions in their group of death. With Roberto Mancini at the helm the blues gained their first ever Premier League Trophy. Carlos Tevez has returned triumphantly to the fold and been a huge influence in the past few games for City, chasing down otherwise lost causes to great effect. I predict that Manchester City will be formidable at home and incredibly hard to match. The hardest challenge will arise when my blues travel to the Bernabeu on the first day to an incredible Madrid side filled with talent. City haven't looked at their best so far and will need to improve on their league start. But I will also be expecting the Dortmund away game to be a tricky task. Unfortunately I can't see my beloved City pipping Madrid to top spot in this group but I expect them to advance to the next stage in the Champions league, assuming players like David Silva and Sergio Aguero can return to top form.
Expected Progression - Quarter-Finals
Stadium - Etihad Stadium (Cap. 47,726)
Manager - Roberto Mancini
Key Player - Sergio Aguero
3- Borussia Dortmund, conquerors of the terrors of Germany, Bayern Munich, and champions of the Bundesliga. Not a mean feat by any stretch. With talent such as Lewandowski and Gotze up front with Hummels and Subotic in defence, its no wonder why they won the Bundesliga. The Signal Iduna Park is a huge stadium and is incredibly noisy when full so expect a resilient and difficult side to match in an away clash. As talented as this team is I believe they would advance out of any other group with ease, but this is no ordinary group and, even with all of the talent involved in this side. Unfortunately I have to say the German Champions won't progress past the group stage this year. I expect them to qualify for the Europa League and to challenge for that particular title.
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Westfalenstadion (Cap. 80,720)
Manager - J.Klopp
Key Player - Mario Gotze
4- Ajax, ever the champions of Holland and a trophy cabinet filled to the brim, will find it difficult this year, it won't be from the occasion though. Ajax have an incredible Champions League pedigree, it is just the talent of opponent that will see Ajax struggle to register even a few points this year. Last year they beat Manchester United at Old Trafford which isn't easy but the Bernabeu, Signal Iduna and Etihad stadiums will be fortresses this time round. Ajax do have class in their ranks even with the departure of Van Der Wiel to PSG in the summer. Ryan Babel can score screamers on his day and the Champions League is his regular place to do them, so the other champions will need to watch out.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Amsterdam Arena (Cap. 52,342)
Manager - F.De Boer
Key Player - Cristian Eriksen
18 Sep
Madrid vs City --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs Ajax --- DORTMUND WIN
3 Oct
Ajax vs Madrid --- MADRID WIN
City vs Dortmund --- CITY WIN
24 Oct
Dortmund vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs City --- CITY WIN
6 Nov
Madrid vs Dortmund --- MADRID WIN
City vs Ajax --- CITY WIN
21 Nov
City vs Madrid --- DRAW
Ajax vs Dortmund --- DORTMUND WIN
4 Dec
Madrid vs Ajax --- MADRID WIN
Dortmund vs City --- DORTMUND WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Real Madrid
2- Manchester City
3- Borussia Dortmund
4- Ajax
Final Whistle- Definitely a group for everyone to watch, with 4 major players in European football all joined in one group. If Manchester City fail to qualify, it should be Dortmund that take the second spot. You shouldn't even think of missing such quality as Aguero, Tevez, Ronaldo, Ozil, Gotze, Hummels and Eriksen all put together on one field of battle, watch this space. I'd say City will just pip Dortmund.
Reigning Champions Chesea return to defend their title in Group E, joined by Ukranian side Shakhtar, Italian unbeaten Champions Juventus and Danish side Nordsjaelland. Can Roberto Di Matteo mastermind a successful campaign yet again?
1- Chelsea
2- Shakhtar Donetsk
3- Juventus
4- Nordsjaelland
1- Can Roberto Di Matteo and his strengthened Chelsea squad mount another challenge for the Cup? Summer spending to the tune of £90million suggests they mean business; The Hazard Bros, Marin, Oscar, Azpilicueta and Moses add to an already packed squad. Didier Drogba has left but will Fernando Torres 'hear the drums' and fire in the vital goals that the Ivorian has left behind? We think they can expect to top the group, but it'll be tough at times, Shakhtar and Juventus will be very trick places to go and they may only pick up a draw or two there, but expect them to win the rest of their matches.
Expected Progression - Quarter Final
Stadium - Stamford Bridge (Cap. 41,837)
Manager - R.Di Matteo
Key Player - Eden Hazard
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Donbass Arena (Cap. 52,187)
Manager - M.Lucescu
Key Player - Willian
Expected Progression - Quarter Finals
Stadium - Juventus Stadium (Cap. 41,000)
Manager - M.Carrera
Key Player - Andrea Pirlo
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Farum Park (Cap. 10,100)
Manager - K.Hjulmand
Key Player - Nikolai Stockholm
19 Sep
Chelsea vs Juventus --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Nordsjaelland --- SHAKHTAR WIN
2 Oct
Nordsjaelland vs Chelsea --- CHELSEA WIN
Juventus vs Shakhtar --- JUVE WIN
23 Oct
Shakhtar vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Juventus vs Nordsjaelland --- JUVE WIN
7 Nov
Chelsea vs Shakhtar --- CHELSEA WIN
Nordsjaelland vs Juventus --- JUVE WIN
20 Nov
Juventus vs Chelsea --- DRAW
Nordsjaelland vs Shakhtar --- SHAKHTAR WIN
5 Dec
Chelsea vs Nordsjaelland --- CHELSEA WIN
Shakhtar vs Juventus --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Chelsea
2- Juventus
3- Shakhtar Donetsk
4- Nordsjaelland
Final Whistle - So, Di Matteo's men will win the Group but will face some challenges along the way. Juventus should overcome Shakhtar in the battle for second place and the Ukranians will have to settle for a Europa League place. The minnows from Denmark could, unfortunately, be on the end of a few heavy defeats, expecially away from home. But, this competition can be seen as experience for them.
German giants Bayern will be expected to rule this Group F, at home they could be unbeatable and away from home they're also strong. Valencia will provide test for any side and BATE will be a stubborn task when they play in Belarus. Lille have lost their star player in Eden Hazard and could struggle.
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
1- After progressing all the way to the Final last year, only to lose to Chelsea, Bayern are back this season and they look a menacing side. Additions such as Xherdan Shaqiri, Javi Martinez and Mario Mandzukic mean they have even more quality in their side. Often in the last few years, if you could criticise Bayern, it would be because their starting lineup was world class, but their bench could be below par. Not this year, they have depth and that is a scary prospect. As a warning, they have started their Bundesliga campaign in fine form, easing past their first few challengers. Mario Gomez, their talisman striker, hasn't even started a game. He had ankle surgery in August and as yet, there is no date set for his return, he will be a miss for the side.
Expected Progression - Winners.
Stadium - Allianz Arena (Cap. 71,000)
Manager - J.Heynckes
Key Player - Toni Kroos
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Mestalla (Cap. 55,000)
Manager - M.Pellegrino
Key Player - Roberto Soldado
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Grand Stade Metropole (Cap. 50,816)
Manager - R.Garcia
Key Player - Salomon Kalou
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - City Stadtum (Cap. 5,402)
Manager - V.Goncharenko
Key Player - Dzmitry Likhtarovic
19 Sep
Bayern vs Valencia --- BAYERN WIN
Lille vs BATE --- LILLE WIN
2 Oct
BATE vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
23 Oct
Lille vs Bayern --- BAYERN WIN
BATE vs Valencia --- VALENCIA WIN
7 Nov
Valencia vs BATE --- VALENCIA WIN
Bayern vs Lille --- BAYERN WIN
20 Nov
Valencia vs Bayern --- DRAW
BATE vs Lille --- DRAW
5 Dec
Bayern vs BATE --- BAYERN WIN
Valencia vs Lille --- VALENCIA WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Bayern Munich
2- Valencia
3- Lille
4- BATE Borisov
Final Whistle - You really can't see past Bayern for this group, the perennial nearlymen Valencia will again get close to the top spot and finish second. Nothing much canbe expected from Lille or BATE and it may well be a direct scrap between those two for a Europa League spot.
Spanish giants Barcelona are the biggest name in Group G, joined by Benfica, Spartak and SPL outfit Celtic. Can Tito Vilanova mastermind a title winning challenge?
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
1- Barcelona, the giants of Spain. The have lost their companion in Pep Guardiola, the legendary coach, but nevertheless, they ooze quality and Tito Vilanova is no mug. The former assistant has taken over the reigns and looks right at home managing this side. Additions of Alex Song and Jordi Alba will only strengthen the already brimming side and we can see them easily making the semi-finals. Iniesta and Xavi are still there to form the three muscateers with Lionel Messi. These three score and assist a ridiculous amount of goals and I don't see this coming to an end. Infact, I predict they will make it all the way to the final, only to lose there to Bayern.
Expected Progression - Finalists
Stadium - Nou Camp (Cap. 96,636)
Manager - Tito Vilanova
Key Player - Lionel Messi
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Estadio da Luz (Cap. 65,647)
Manager - J.Jesus
Key Player - Nicolas Gaitan
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Luzhniki Stadium (Cap. 78,360)
Manager - S.Parshivkyuk
Key Player - Romulo
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Celtic Park (Cap. 60,832)
Manager - N.Lennon
Key Player - Gary Hooper
19 Sep
Barcelona vs Spartak --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Benfica --- BENFICA WIN
2 Oct
Benfica vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Celtic --- SPARTAK WIN
23 Oct
Barcelona vs Celtic ---BARCA WIN
Spartak vs Benfica --- DRAW
7 Nov
Celtic vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Spartak --- BENFICA WIN
20 Nov
Spartak vs Barcelona --- BARCA WIN
Benfica vs Celtic --- BENFICA WIN
5 Dec
Barcelona vs Benfica --- BARCA WIN
Celtic vs Spartak --- SPARTAK WIN
Predicted Finish
1- Barcelona
2- Benfica
3- Spartak Moscow
4- Celtic
Final Whistle - Barcelona will win this group, quite easily, but the question is who will be second? We think Benfica have enough class and experience to get the second spot. As they have shown in previous campaigns, they are capable of springing an upset, but if they fail to gel, Spartak may nick the second place.
Group H, on paper, looks a good draw for Manchester United with Braga, Galatasaray and Romanian minnows Cluj. What is certain is that United will witness some of the most unique venues in Europe.
1- Manchester United
2- Braga
3- Galatasaray
4- CFR Cluj
1- United, the Champions of a few years back, will attempt to do it again this year and with a strong squad supplemented by a few world class arrivals, they look a threat. The Summer additions of Robin Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa provide a goalscorer and someone that can create the opportunities. Added to this, they have a fit and rejuvinated Nemanja Vidic to run their defence, which was the bane of the campaign last season. Away games at Galatasaray and Braga could be awkward ones but I see United having enough.
Expected Progression - Semi-Finals
Stadium - Old Trafford (Cap. 75,765)
Manager - A.Ferguson
Key Player - Nemanja Vidic
2- Galatasaray have built a squad with a few good quality players. Repatriating Hamit Altintop over the Summer was an excellent decision for them and now, they mave have enough to gain a second place spot for the Knockout round. Add to this the Brazilian Felipe Melo, Emmanuel Eboue, Johan Elmander and Albert Riera and they should beat Braga and Cluj to qualify. The Turk Telecom Arena will be a terrible away day for any side, a fiery atmosphere, sometimes intimidating will be a challenge.
Expected Progression - Round of 16
Stadium - Turk Telecom Arena (Cap. 52,652)
Manager - F.Terim
Key Player - Hamit Altintop
Expected Progression - Group Stage (Europa League)
Stadium - Estadio Municipal (Cap. 30,184)
Manager - J.Peseiro
Key Player - Ruben Micael
4- Cluj, the Romanian minnows from Vampire country in Transylvania, will be expected to be the whipping boys of this group. However, a unique home stadium and an equally odd atmosphere mean it may be a challenge for some sides. Their central defensive partner and Captain, Cadu is good, solid player. He will attempt to run their defence, something that will be vital if they are to stop conceding goals like they have in past Chmpions League campaigns.
Expected Progression - Group Stage
Stadium - Stadional Dr.Constantin Radulescu (Cap. 24,000)
Manager - I.Andone
Key Player - Cadu
Fixtures and Predictions
19 Sep
Man.United vs Galatasaray --- UNITED WIN
Braga vs Cluj --- BRAGA WIN
2 Oct
Cluj vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Braga --- GALATASARAY WIN
23 Oct
Man.United vs Braga --- UNITED WIN
Galatasaray vs Cluj --- GALATASARAY WIN
7 Nov
Braga vs Man.United --- UNITED WIN
Cluj vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
20 Nov
Galatasaray vs Man.United --- DRAW
Cluj vs Braga --- CLUJ WIN
5 Dec
Man.United vs Cluj ---UNITED WIN
Braga vs Galatasaray --- DRAW
Predicted Finish
1- Manchester United
2- Galatasaray
3- Braga
4- CFR Cluj
Final Whistle - Aslong as they aren't complacent, United should win this final Group G. Galatasaray have a few good players, that should be enough to see them pick up the second place. Braga is a tough place to go and so I expect them to scrape into the Europa League qualification spot. Cluj could cause an upset or two at home, but I don't see them challenging.
Monday, 17 September 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 4
The Premier League was goal heavy this week courtesy of two great games at Old Trafford and the Emirates, 11 goals in those alone but there's still a defence in our team of the week number 4. Because of the results, the side is heavily dominated by both the Gunners and United.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK- Brad Guzan- American Guzan had a fantastic week between the posts for Villa. Keeping Shay Given out of the starting side, he needs to perform, and he did this on Saturday, pulling off a number of good saves in a clean sheet for Villa.
RB- Leighton Baines- Everton's England left back Baines scored the opener in the Toffees' 2-2 draw with Newcastle. He is always a threat from set pieces and in attack while being good in defence holding the line well. We swap him over to Right-back to accommodate the new United star.
CB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal's talisman in defence has formed a seemingly very solid partnership with Per Mertesacker and another good performance all round means he gains a spot in this side.
CB- Per Mertesacker- Gangly German Mertesacker had a troubled start to his Arsenal career, but this season he seems rejuvinated. A number of clean sheets have been the result and this weekend he got close to another. Southampton robbed him of another, but his solid partnership with Vermaelen is serving Arsenal well.
LB- Alexander Buttner- Up until this weekend, nobody had heard of this chap. Now, we think it's safe to eople do. An outstanding debut in which he not only scored, but showed a never say die attitude and fantastic workrate shows he should be a great addition to the United outfit.
CDM- Paul Scholes- 700 games, bu he still seems to not be showing signs of his performance level dropping. A goal on his landmark appearance and his controlling of the midfield an pce of the game earnt United an easy win.
CDM- Javi Garcia- He might look slightly like a beaver, but he can certainly play. A threat from seemingly every set play, it appears as if he is very good aerially aswell as with his feet. He regained posession a number of times and scored the goal that gave the Champions a tricky point.
RAM- Gervinho- Seemingly forgotten with the form of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain the man with the giant forehead scored twice at the weekend in a top quality performance that saw him possibly cement a more regular starting spot.
LAM- Alex Kacaniklic- Like many other Football fans, this lad was not well known to us until the start of this season. However, his performances so far have suggested he is more than capable. A lively attacking style supplemented by a good end product means he will score goals and create them, just as he did this weekend.
CF- Lukas Podolski- If he isn't in the side for any other reason, he would still be here just for his free-kick. A sublime piece of skill got him a goal but he was a general nuisance to the Southampton defence and as a result looks a real threat for the Gunners.
ST- Dimitar Berbatov- We see him scoring a hatfull of goals at Craven Cottage. From his debut, it looks as though we may be right. One world class finish and a coolly taken penalty in a performance with epitomised Berbatov's somewhat enviable style means he easily makes our side.
Subs- Begovic, Gallas, Lowton, Arteta, Nani, Ba, Defoe
Manager- Arsene Wenger
Chump of the week - Peter Odemwingie - What can only be dubbed as a foolish fly-hack at an opposition player essentially ended all chances of West Brom getting a result of Fulham. This possibly cost them the game or atleast a draw. A very naive act.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK- Brad Guzan- American Guzan had a fantastic week between the posts for Villa. Keeping Shay Given out of the starting side, he needs to perform, and he did this on Saturday, pulling off a number of good saves in a clean sheet for Villa.
RB- Leighton Baines- Everton's England left back Baines scored the opener in the Toffees' 2-2 draw with Newcastle. He is always a threat from set pieces and in attack while being good in defence holding the line well. We swap him over to Right-back to accommodate the new United star.
CB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal's talisman in defence has formed a seemingly very solid partnership with Per Mertesacker and another good performance all round means he gains a spot in this side.
CB- Per Mertesacker- Gangly German Mertesacker had a troubled start to his Arsenal career, but this season he seems rejuvinated. A number of clean sheets have been the result and this weekend he got close to another. Southampton robbed him of another, but his solid partnership with Vermaelen is serving Arsenal well.
LB- Alexander Buttner- Up until this weekend, nobody had heard of this chap. Now, we think it's safe to eople do. An outstanding debut in which he not only scored, but showed a never say die attitude and fantastic workrate shows he should be a great addition to the United outfit.
CDM- Paul Scholes- 700 games, bu he still seems to not be showing signs of his performance level dropping. A goal on his landmark appearance and his controlling of the midfield an pce of the game earnt United an easy win.
CDM- Javi Garcia- He might look slightly like a beaver, but he can certainly play. A threat from seemingly every set play, it appears as if he is very good aerially aswell as with his feet. He regained posession a number of times and scored the goal that gave the Champions a tricky point.
RAM- Gervinho- Seemingly forgotten with the form of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain the man with the giant forehead scored twice at the weekend in a top quality performance that saw him possibly cement a more regular starting spot.
LAM- Alex Kacaniklic- Like many other Football fans, this lad was not well known to us until the start of this season. However, his performances so far have suggested he is more than capable. A lively attacking style supplemented by a good end product means he will score goals and create them, just as he did this weekend.
CF- Lukas Podolski- If he isn't in the side for any other reason, he would still be here just for his free-kick. A sublime piece of skill got him a goal but he was a general nuisance to the Southampton defence and as a result looks a real threat for the Gunners.
ST- Dimitar Berbatov- We see him scoring a hatfull of goals at Craven Cottage. From his debut, it looks as though we may be right. One world class finish and a coolly taken penalty in a performance with epitomised Berbatov's somewhat enviable style means he easily makes our side.
Subs- Begovic, Gallas, Lowton, Arteta, Nani, Ba, Defoe
Manager- Arsene Wenger
Chump of the week - Peter Odemwingie - What can only be dubbed as a foolish fly-hack at an opposition player essentially ended all chances of West Brom getting a result of Fulham. This possibly cost them the game or atleast a draw. A very naive act.
Sunday, 2 September 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 3
Here's our Barclays Premier league Team of The Week for Gameweek 3!
An astonishing lack of defenders this week, the low number of standout defensive displays means we have plugged for an attacking side this time round.
Formation- 3-4-1-2
GK- Brad Friedel- He is 41, but he simply shows no signs of stopping performing at the highest level. Friedel made two outstanding saves among a raft of others as Norwich threatened to upset a shaky Spurs. In the end, they took a point, in part thanks to the efforts of the American stopper.
RCB- Ciaran Clark- Villa's young star Clark had a solid week. A goal that gave is side an unlikely lead meant he was already a candidate. However, an additional clean sheet was only denied by a stunning goal that no man could have stopped, therefore Clark makes it into our side.
CB- Winston Reid- West Ham capped a great win with a clean sheet and this man was a big part of that. Add this to his fine header for their second goal and Reid had an impressive day at the office.
LCB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal haven't conceded a goal yet, and this is in no mall part down to their defensive rock and captain. Steve Bould has the defensive quartet very well drilled and Vermaelen holds it together.
CM- Kevin Nolan- A portfolio of pesky qualities means Nolan is a handful for any side, but he was too much for Fulham this weekend. He had a hand in one goal and scored another in a teriffic win for the Hammers. This sees him gain a place in our lineup.
CM- Abou Diaby- With a passing style drawing comparisons to that of Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira, Diaby controlled Arsenal's Anfield win with aplomb. His gangly running style seems to take him away from challenges with ease and this set up a great win for Wenger's side.
LM- Robert Snodgrass- Coming from Leeds and the Championship over the Summer, there was soe doubt as to whether Snodgrass would adapt, but a sublime performance that epitomised a battling Norwich display capped off with a well taken goal, meant that his critics are being rapidly answered.
RM- Hatem Ben Arfa- With Newcastle producing a below par performance, they needed a spark to ignite their game. This came from Ben Arfa who rifled a powerful shot into the top right corner to level the scores, in the process, rescuing a valuable point for his side.
CF- Robin Van Persie- 10 chances, 5 on target, 3 goals, 1 penalty won and the same penalty missed; An eventful game for the new United talisman but his trio of goals won Fergie's men a game that threatened to be a banana skin to their Title challenge.
CF- Andy Carroll- His West Ham debut was a shimmering one as Carroll made a general nuisance of himself throughout his time on the pitch, contributing to two goals. An injury curtailed his Hammers debut however, fans have a lot to shout about with their new frontman.
ST- Steven Fletcher- It looked this week as if Sunderland had spent £14million on a player that maybe wouldn't set the world alight. However, his first appearance in the Black Cat shirt was one out of the top draw as his two goals meant Sunderland got a point out of a tricky game against the well drilled Swansea side.
Subs- Al Habsi, Macauley, Diame, Dembele, Cazorla, Allen, Tevez, Lambert
Manager- Chris Hughton
We also give a mention to Neil Taylor. An unfortunate injury means he faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Having had a fantastic season for Swansea last year, this will be a big blow to the Welsh side and we wish him the best of luck in his recovery.
An astonishing lack of defenders this week, the low number of standout defensive displays means we have plugged for an attacking side this time round.
Formation- 3-4-1-2
GK- Brad Friedel- He is 41, but he simply shows no signs of stopping performing at the highest level. Friedel made two outstanding saves among a raft of others as Norwich threatened to upset a shaky Spurs. In the end, they took a point, in part thanks to the efforts of the American stopper.
RCB- Ciaran Clark- Villa's young star Clark had a solid week. A goal that gave is side an unlikely lead meant he was already a candidate. However, an additional clean sheet was only denied by a stunning goal that no man could have stopped, therefore Clark makes it into our side.
CB- Winston Reid- West Ham capped a great win with a clean sheet and this man was a big part of that. Add this to his fine header for their second goal and Reid had an impressive day at the office.
LCB- Thomas Vermaelen- Arsenal haven't conceded a goal yet, and this is in no mall part down to their defensive rock and captain. Steve Bould has the defensive quartet very well drilled and Vermaelen holds it together.
CM- Kevin Nolan- A portfolio of pesky qualities means Nolan is a handful for any side, but he was too much for Fulham this weekend. He had a hand in one goal and scored another in a teriffic win for the Hammers. This sees him gain a place in our lineup.
CM- Abou Diaby- With a passing style drawing comparisons to that of Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira, Diaby controlled Arsenal's Anfield win with aplomb. His gangly running style seems to take him away from challenges with ease and this set up a great win for Wenger's side.
LM- Robert Snodgrass- Coming from Leeds and the Championship over the Summer, there was soe doubt as to whether Snodgrass would adapt, but a sublime performance that epitomised a battling Norwich display capped off with a well taken goal, meant that his critics are being rapidly answered.
RM- Hatem Ben Arfa- With Newcastle producing a below par performance, they needed a spark to ignite their game. This came from Ben Arfa who rifled a powerful shot into the top right corner to level the scores, in the process, rescuing a valuable point for his side.
CF- Robin Van Persie- 10 chances, 5 on target, 3 goals, 1 penalty won and the same penalty missed; An eventful game for the new United talisman but his trio of goals won Fergie's men a game that threatened to be a banana skin to their Title challenge.
CF- Andy Carroll- His West Ham debut was a shimmering one as Carroll made a general nuisance of himself throughout his time on the pitch, contributing to two goals. An injury curtailed his Hammers debut however, fans have a lot to shout about with their new frontman.
ST- Steven Fletcher- It looked this week as if Sunderland had spent £14million on a player that maybe wouldn't set the world alight. However, his first appearance in the Black Cat shirt was one out of the top draw as his two goals meant Sunderland got a point out of a tricky game against the well drilled Swansea side.
Subs- Al Habsi, Macauley, Diame, Dembele, Cazorla, Allen, Tevez, Lambert
Manager- Chris Hughton
We also give a mention to Neil Taylor. An unfortunate injury means he faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Having had a fantastic season for Swansea last year, this will be a big blow to the Welsh side and we wish him the best of luck in his recovery.
Friday, 31 August 2012
DEADLINE DAY - TRANSFER SUMMARY
Alas we have come to the end of yet another summer of deals and deadline day is always fun and turbulent. Here are all the deals involving Premier League clubs that went through before 11pm today, this will be kept up to date until Big Ben strikes 11.
Player - From - To - Terms
Sam Magri - Portsmouth - QPR - undisc
Maicon - Internazionale - Man.City - 4million
Scott Sinclair - Swansea - Man.City - 6.5million
Andrea Orlandi - Swansea - Brighton - Undisc
Jay Spearing - Liverpool - Bolton - loan
Nigel de Jong - Man.City - AC Milan - 3.5million
Roque Santa Cruz - Man.City - Malaga - loan
Charlie Adam - Liverpool - Stoke - undisc
Pablo Hernandez - Valencia - Swansea - 5.5million
Nicklas Bendtner - Arsenal - Juventus - loan
Chu Young Park - Arsenal - Celta Vigo - loan
Nathaniel Chalobah - Chelsea - Watford - loan
Rafael Van der Vaart - Tottenham - Hamburg - 10million
Kieran Richardson - Sunderland - Fulham - Undisc
Dimitar Berbatov - Man.United - Fulham - 4million
Stefan Savic - Man.City - Fiorentina - Undisc
Danny Rose - Tottenham - Sunderland - loan
Gael Kakuta - Chelsea - Vitesse - loan
Maurice Edu - Rangers - Stoke - Undisc
Giovani dos Santos - Tottenham - Mallorca - undisc
Bryan Oviedo - Copenhagen - Everton - 5million
Esteban Granero - Real Madrid - QPR - 4.5million
Joey Barton - QPR - Marseille - loan
Gaston Ramirez - Bologna - Southampton - 12.5million
Jay Bothroyd - QPR - Sheff.Wed - loan
Richard Wright - unattahed - Man City - free
Dedryck Boyata - Man City - Twente - loan
Hugo Lloris - Lyon - Tottenham
Clint Dempsey - Fulham - Tottenham
Christian Benteke - Genk - Aston Villa
Stephen Dobbie - Swansea - Brighton
Matija Nastasic - Fiorentina - Man City - Undisc
Ashley Westwood - Crewe - Aston Villa
Billy Sharp - Southampton - N.Forest - loan
Yossi Benayoun - Chelsea - West Ham - loan
Stephane Mbia - Marseille - QPR - Undisc
Nicky Maynard - West Ham - Cardiff - Undisc
Nathan Delfouneso - Aston Villa - Blackpool - loan
Nathan Ecclestone - Liverpool - Blackpool - Undisc
Dani Pacheco - Liverpool - Valladolid - loan
Michael Essien - Chelsea - Real Madrid - loan
Javi Garcia - Benfica - Man City - 16millon
Steven N'Zonzi - Blackburn - Stoke
Ashkan Dejagah - Wokfsburg - Fulham - Undisc
Player - From - To - Terms
Sam Magri - Portsmouth - QPR - undisc
Maicon - Internazionale - Man.City - 4million
Scott Sinclair - Swansea - Man.City - 6.5million
Andrea Orlandi - Swansea - Brighton - Undisc
Jay Spearing - Liverpool - Bolton - loan
Nigel de Jong - Man.City - AC Milan - 3.5million
Roque Santa Cruz - Man.City - Malaga - loan
Charlie Adam - Liverpool - Stoke - undisc
Pablo Hernandez - Valencia - Swansea - 5.5million
Nicklas Bendtner - Arsenal - Juventus - loan
Chu Young Park - Arsenal - Celta Vigo - loan
Nathaniel Chalobah - Chelsea - Watford - loan
Rafael Van der Vaart - Tottenham - Hamburg - 10million
Kieran Richardson - Sunderland - Fulham - Undisc
Dimitar Berbatov - Man.United - Fulham - 4million
Stefan Savic - Man.City - Fiorentina - Undisc
Danny Rose - Tottenham - Sunderland - loan
Gael Kakuta - Chelsea - Vitesse - loan
Maurice Edu - Rangers - Stoke - Undisc
Giovani dos Santos - Tottenham - Mallorca - undisc
Bryan Oviedo - Copenhagen - Everton - 5million
Esteban Granero - Real Madrid - QPR - 4.5million
Joey Barton - QPR - Marseille - loan
Gaston Ramirez - Bologna - Southampton - 12.5million
Jay Bothroyd - QPR - Sheff.Wed - loan
Richard Wright - unattahed - Man City - free
Dedryck Boyata - Man City - Twente - loan
Hugo Lloris - Lyon - Tottenham
Clint Dempsey - Fulham - Tottenham
Christian Benteke - Genk - Aston Villa
Stephen Dobbie - Swansea - Brighton
Matija Nastasic - Fiorentina - Man City - Undisc
Ashley Westwood - Crewe - Aston Villa
Billy Sharp - Southampton - N.Forest - loan
Yossi Benayoun - Chelsea - West Ham - loan
Stephane Mbia - Marseille - QPR - Undisc
Nicky Maynard - West Ham - Cardiff - Undisc
Nathan Delfouneso - Aston Villa - Blackpool - loan
Nathan Ecclestone - Liverpool - Blackpool - Undisc
Dani Pacheco - Liverpool - Valladolid - loan
Michael Essien - Chelsea - Real Madrid - loan
Javi Garcia - Benfica - Man City - 16millon
Steven N'Zonzi - Blackburn - Stoke
Ashkan Dejagah - Wokfsburg - Fulham - Undisc
Wednesday, 22 August 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 2
Here's our Barclays Premier league Team of The Week for Gameweek 2!
Formation 4-4-1-1
GK- Ali Al Habsi- Wigan keep a clean sheet and secure a win in the opening few PL weeks, and they have Al Habsi to thank, a few top class saves meant the Oman stopper pips Michel Vorm this week.
RB- Rafael- Brazilian Rafael had a lively game, contributing in attack and also defence, he is still learning, but going forward he provides such a good outlet for the midfielders.
CB- Ryan Shawcross- Stoke's defense is, in a word, brutal. However, it seems to work and Shawcross was vital in keeping a clean sheet against the opposition's attacking 'Arsenal'.
CB- Martin Skrtel- Despite the obvious mistake, we overlook that and include Liverpool's star defender as every other aspect of his performance was good. The power generated on his header was simply unstoppable.
LB- Glen Johnson- Like Rafael, Johnson is a menace going forward but also had a solid defensive display, this all round effort sees him on our team.
LM- Eden Hazard- What a start for the Belgian and his Chelsea career, another impressive performance and the statistic of 1 goal and 6 assists in 3 games puts him in our side again.
CM- Joe Allen- Running the Liverpool midfield is a tough job, Allen managed that with aplomb on Sunday, showing skill that will surely see him become a regular starter at Anfield.
CM- Steven Pienaar- Everton may have made an inspired signing (albeit for the third time) as Pienaar had a terrific game, scoring a stunner and creating several chances.
RM- Wayne Routledge- Years as a fringe player haven't helped his PL career however, he showed pace and energy that should see him feature a lot more this season at Swansea.
CF- Moussa Dembele- This guy is a serious player. He seems to have so much time on the ball and can easily see off a defender or regain possession. A fine performance against United sees him gain a place in the TOTW.
ST- Fernando Torres- Is he back? Fernando capped a very good performance with a well taken goal and looked to be playing closer to his best than he has for several months.
Subs- Vorm, Cahill, Baines, Britton, Mata, Suarez,
Manager- Michael Laudrup
Formation 4-4-1-1
GK- Ali Al Habsi- Wigan keep a clean sheet and secure a win in the opening few PL weeks, and they have Al Habsi to thank, a few top class saves meant the Oman stopper pips Michel Vorm this week.
RB- Rafael- Brazilian Rafael had a lively game, contributing in attack and also defence, he is still learning, but going forward he provides such a good outlet for the midfielders.
CB- Ryan Shawcross- Stoke's defense is, in a word, brutal. However, it seems to work and Shawcross was vital in keeping a clean sheet against the opposition's attacking 'Arsenal'.
CB- Martin Skrtel- Despite the obvious mistake, we overlook that and include Liverpool's star defender as every other aspect of his performance was good. The power generated on his header was simply unstoppable.
LB- Glen Johnson- Like Rafael, Johnson is a menace going forward but also had a solid defensive display, this all round effort sees him on our team.
LM- Eden Hazard- What a start for the Belgian and his Chelsea career, another impressive performance and the statistic of 1 goal and 6 assists in 3 games puts him in our side again.
CM- Joe Allen- Running the Liverpool midfield is a tough job, Allen managed that with aplomb on Sunday, showing skill that will surely see him become a regular starter at Anfield.
CM- Steven Pienaar- Everton may have made an inspired signing (albeit for the third time) as Pienaar had a terrific game, scoring a stunner and creating several chances.
RM- Wayne Routledge- Years as a fringe player haven't helped his PL career however, he showed pace and energy that should see him feature a lot more this season at Swansea.
CF- Moussa Dembele- This guy is a serious player. He seems to have so much time on the ball and can easily see off a defender or regain possession. A fine performance against United sees him gain a place in the TOTW.
ST- Fernando Torres- Is he back? Fernando capped a very good performance with a well taken goal and looked to be playing closer to his best than he has for several months.
Subs- Vorm, Cahill, Baines, Britton, Mata, Suarez,
Manager- Michael Laudrup
Tuesday, 21 August 2012
Premier League TOTW - Week 1
Here is a new feature on The Beautiful Game; the PL Team of the Week as agreed by both authors. This will be posted after every set of Matchdays.
Formation 3-4-1-2
GK- Michel Vorm- Swansea's Dutch stopper kept out many QPR chances that could have changed a 5-0 thrashing.
LCB- Phil Jagielka- Everton's unsung hero from the win over Manchester United, he snuffed out any threat around the box and kept Rooney and co. quiet.
CB- Brede Hangeland- In this man, Fulham have a rock at the back who is also a threat in the air. He anchored their 5-0 thrashing of Norwich.
RCB- Branislav Ivanovic- The Chelsea defender repaid the debt owed after his sending off in the Charity Shield by scoring a goal in their 2-0 win over Wigan, while also keeping a clean sheet.
LM- Eden Hazard- Chelsea's new boy made the dream start, with two assists in the opening 10 minutes of the game. He may be starting to justify his pricey transfer.
CM- Santi Cazorla- Arsenal look to hae signed a gem with this little fella, he plays the game like a typical Spaniard and settled into the PL very well.
CM- Marouane Fellaini- He did very little wrong. Everton's floppy haired fan favourite won every header he contested and scored the match winning goal. Nemanja Vidic was the only defender to get near him.
RM- Nathan Dyer- A livewire in the midfield, he scored two and had a hand in two more goals as Swansea routed QPR away from home.
CF- Michu- Another star of the QPR hammering, Swansea's new Spanish talent waltzed into the PL and straight to the top of the scoring table with two well taken goals.
ST- Mladen Petric- Like Michu, he came in from a foreign land, and made an immediate impact, scoring two and making a nuisance of himself throughout the game. This could be a good signing from Martin Jol.
ST- Demba Ba- After enduring what was by his standards, a barren spell at the end of last season, Ba was back with a bang on Saturday evening as he fired Newcastle halfway to a win over fellow Champions League contenders Tottenham.
Subs- De Gea, Ridgewell, De Guzman, Gervinho, Nasri, Kagawa, Lambert.
Manager- Nigel Adkins
Formation 3-4-1-2
GK- Michel Vorm- Swansea's Dutch stopper kept out many QPR chances that could have changed a 5-0 thrashing.
LCB- Phil Jagielka- Everton's unsung hero from the win over Manchester United, he snuffed out any threat around the box and kept Rooney and co. quiet.
CB- Brede Hangeland- In this man, Fulham have a rock at the back who is also a threat in the air. He anchored their 5-0 thrashing of Norwich.
RCB- Branislav Ivanovic- The Chelsea defender repaid the debt owed after his sending off in the Charity Shield by scoring a goal in their 2-0 win over Wigan, while also keeping a clean sheet.
LM- Eden Hazard- Chelsea's new boy made the dream start, with two assists in the opening 10 minutes of the game. He may be starting to justify his pricey transfer.
CM- Santi Cazorla- Arsenal look to hae signed a gem with this little fella, he plays the game like a typical Spaniard and settled into the PL very well.
CM- Marouane Fellaini- He did very little wrong. Everton's floppy haired fan favourite won every header he contested and scored the match winning goal. Nemanja Vidic was the only defender to get near him.
RM- Nathan Dyer- A livewire in the midfield, he scored two and had a hand in two more goals as Swansea routed QPR away from home.
CF- Michu- Another star of the QPR hammering, Swansea's new Spanish talent waltzed into the PL and straight to the top of the scoring table with two well taken goals.
ST- Mladen Petric- Like Michu, he came in from a foreign land, and made an immediate impact, scoring two and making a nuisance of himself throughout the game. This could be a good signing from Martin Jol.
ST- Demba Ba- After enduring what was by his standards, a barren spell at the end of last season, Ba was back with a bang on Saturday evening as he fired Newcastle halfway to a win over fellow Champions League contenders Tottenham.
Subs- De Gea, Ridgewell, De Guzman, Gervinho, Nasri, Kagawa, Lambert.
Manager- Nigel Adkins
Monday, 20 August 2012
Player Watch - Alexander Büttner
With all the talk about his proposed move to Manchester United this week, we thought it was time to find out; Who exactly is Alexander Büttner?
Currently a member of the Vitesse Arnhem squad in the Eredivisie (Dutch League), the 23 year old has made 107 appearances at Left-back for the Dutch club, scoring 10 goals along the way. During these appearances, it was noted that he was a consistent performer, turning out good defensive displays, while still being an attacking threat. He can also operate at Right-back and so is useful to any manager.
It was this potential that saw him selected as part of the 36-man provisional Dutch squad for the European Championships this year, although, he did not make the final squad.
His talent was clearly noticed and lead to him being the subject of a bid from promoted side, Southampton. A deal looked likely to go through however, fell through due to an unknown factor believed to be a demand for a cut of the fee.
Weeks passed and there was no news until this week, when it emerged Manchester United had agreed a fee for the Dutchman. Sir Alex Ferguson, who had reportedly been widening a net over Europe searching for a Left-back, possibly to replace the waining Patrice Evra, had noticed the young man's talent.
When asked about the move, he remarked; 'If you had told me one week ago that I would be training with and playing for the same team as Robin van Persie, I would have sent you to a mental home!'
What seems certain now is that he will indeed be at the same club as RVP this season, and that his 'dreams' have become reality.
Currently a member of the Vitesse Arnhem squad in the Eredivisie (Dutch League), the 23 year old has made 107 appearances at Left-back for the Dutch club, scoring 10 goals along the way. During these appearances, it was noted that he was a consistent performer, turning out good defensive displays, while still being an attacking threat. He can also operate at Right-back and so is useful to any manager.
It was this potential that saw him selected as part of the 36-man provisional Dutch squad for the European Championships this year, although, he did not make the final squad.
His talent was clearly noticed and lead to him being the subject of a bid from promoted side, Southampton. A deal looked likely to go through however, fell through due to an unknown factor believed to be a demand for a cut of the fee.
Weeks passed and there was no news until this week, when it emerged Manchester United had agreed a fee for the Dutchman. Sir Alex Ferguson, who had reportedly been widening a net over Europe searching for a Left-back, possibly to replace the waining Patrice Evra, had noticed the young man's talent.
When asked about the move, he remarked; 'If you had told me one week ago that I would be training with and playing for the same team as Robin van Persie, I would have sent you to a mental home!'
What seems certain now is that he will indeed be at the same club as RVP this season, and that his 'dreams' have become reality.
Saturday, 18 August 2012
Barclays Premier League 2012/13 - Season Preview
The Gunners, once a team that went unbeaten in an entire season and filled with quality, have now become a team 'for the future'. The problem the Gunners have always had has been that 'a team for the future' is all they have been over the past 5 seasons. Arsene Wenger's often stubborn insistence in a youth policy hasn't paid off, and in recent times, they have been forced to react.
However, this season could signal a new beginning for Wenger’s Gunners. The fresh young face of Oxlade-Chamberlain impressed solidly at Euro 2012 and is likely to become one of England's best wingers based on current progress. Instead of being possession orientated like the rest of the squad “The Ox” prefers to drive on at the opponents wing back and swinging in crosses.
Wenger has spent money this transfer window on Olivier Giroud (Ligue 1’s top scorer 2011/12) and Lucas Podolski (long term target of Wenger). Both are incredible players and solid goal scorers. In addition, the signing of midfield livewire Santi Cazorla is a good one.
Transfers
In - Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud, Santi Cazorla
Out - Manuel Almunia, Gavin Hoyte, Carlos Vela, Pedro Botelho, Robin Van Persie, Ryo Miyaichi (loan)
First Team
Szczesny, Gibbs, Koscielny, Vermaelen (C), Sagna, Arteta, Song, Cazorla, Podolski, Chamberlain, Giroud.
With the money gained from selling, new signings could be made before the start of the season, they will more than likely come into the team. Jack Wilshere will be likely to replace Santi Cazorla in the side. when he is fit. If rumours are to be believed, Alex Song could also leave, he would be likely to be replaced by Tomas Rosicky or Aaron Ramsey. Theo Walcott may start a few games, however, could be used in a 'super sub' role. Abou Diaby's return from injury will also provide a much needed antidote to the possible loss of Song.
Key Player - Thomas Vermaelen
The Belgian Centre Half is key to Arsenal’s success this season, he will also be the new captain, if he can stay fit then Arsenal will keep clean sheets this season. This is something they failed to do on regular occasions last season.
Predicted Finish - 6th
Arsenal have quality players there is no doubt about that, however with teams like Chelsea spending bags of cash, they will have to fight some serious competition for Champions League places this term, expect Newcastle and Tottenham to also be in the mix.
Overall I believe Arsenal will have quite a successful season and may even challenge for a domestic trophy, but they are a few seasons or at least a few good transfers away from true glory.
Last season was tough for the Birmingham based side, finishing 16th, they often looked in real danger and in the end, beat the drop by just two points. Alex McLeish's arrival at the begining of the season caused a bit of unrest, fans were undecided and this may have been shown in their on field performances. Added to this, a speight of injuries and the untimely illness of their loyal captain Stilyan Petrov meant the Villans were scraping a side together on occasion and youngsters became regular starters.
A new manager, can often bring a change in fortunes, and Paul Lambert, arriving from Norwich, may be just that. His good record at Norwich means he is a prove Premier League manager, and should his players stay fit, they could endure a more successful season this term. They had too many drawn games last season, they will need to improve this to gain a better league finish.
Transfers
In - Brett Holman, Matthew Lowton, Karim El Ahmadi, Ron Vlaar
Out - Emile Heskey, Andy Marshall, Carlos Cuellar, James Collins
First Team
Given, Hutton, Vlaar, Dunne (C), Warnock, N'Zogbia, Ireland, Bannan, Albrighton, Agbonlahor, Bent
Stilyan Petrov in unlikely to play much of a part this season, if at all as he continues his recovery from illness. We think young Ciaran Clark will make his impact on the side this season, probably getting some game time from starting. Barry Bannan starts in central midfield, while the likes of Jean Makoun, Eric Lichaj, Nathan Baker, Karim El Ahmadi and Nathan Delfouneso will start on the bench.
Key Player - Darren Bent
Should he stay fit, Bent has the clinical ability to finish off most passes to him. His goals could be vital to a good season for the Villans as Agbonlahor made little impact last season.
A new manager, can often bring a change in fortunes, and Paul Lambert, arriving from Norwich, may be just that. His good record at Norwich means he is a prove Premier League manager, and should his players stay fit, they could endure a more successful season this term. They had too many drawn games last season, they will need to improve this to gain a better league finish.
Transfers
In - Brett Holman, Matthew Lowton, Karim El Ahmadi, Ron Vlaar
Out - Emile Heskey, Andy Marshall, Carlos Cuellar, James Collins
First Team
Given, Hutton, Vlaar, Dunne (C), Warnock, N'Zogbia, Ireland, Bannan, Albrighton, Agbonlahor, Bent
Stilyan Petrov in unlikely to play much of a part this season, if at all as he continues his recovery from illness. We think young Ciaran Clark will make his impact on the side this season, probably getting some game time from starting. Barry Bannan starts in central midfield, while the likes of Jean Makoun, Eric Lichaj, Nathan Baker, Karim El Ahmadi and Nathan Delfouneso will start on the bench.
Key Player - Darren Bent
Should he stay fit, Bent has the clinical ability to finish off most passes to him. His goals could be vital to a good season for the Villans as Agbonlahor made little impact last season.
Predicted Finish - 15th
Early season form could be the key as players look to make their impact on the new manager, they will probably find themselves winning a few more games this season, therefore their league position will reflect that. An injury crisis on the same level as previously experienced is highly unlikely, therefore their squad won't be stretched as far. There are poorer teams in the Premier League this year and Aston Villa have some star quality. A mid table finish is probably the best they can hope for.
Chelsea, the original fat cats of the Premier League, when Roman Abramovich took over there was a huge wave of support and hope for a team that had started to falter under Claudio Ranieri. All of a sudden, a blank cheque was issued to any Chelsea manager at the helm, the changes came thick and fast, none more brilliant than ‘the special one’. Jose Mourinho guided Chelsea to their League title and came agonisingly close to the Champions League. No manager had managed that feat until Roberto Di Matteo guided Chelsea to the most coveted prize in European Football.
After a series of relatively poor seasons with somewhat unsuccessful managers Chelsea may have found the man to lead them to the glory that the ‘Special One’ delivered so many years ago. This transfer window, Chelski made a huge signal of intent towards glory by signing the exciting young Belgian Eden Hazard. An incredible talent and a star for the future, Hazard is expected to thrill Premier League audiences all season.
Chelsea haven’t remained quiet this transfer window either, they have brought in the young Belgian Hazard, Marko Marin, and Brazilian talent in Oscar in adddition to Eden Hazard's younger brother Thorgan. If rumours are to be believed then Di Matteo has approximately £60m available or 2 more new signings this window. This will cause a great amount of change in the dressing room at Stamford Bridge. Their life without Drogba may depend on just how Fernando Torres performs.
Transfers
In - Eden Hazard, Oscar, Thorgan Hazard, Marko Marin
Out - Jose Bosingwa, Salomon Kalou, Didier Drogba, Ulises Davila (loan), Matej Delac (loan), Kevin de Bruyne (loan), Romelu Lukaku (loan), Thibaut Courtois (loan)
First Team
Cech, Cole, Cahill, Terry (C), Ivanovic, Essien, Oscar, Ramires, Hazard, Mata, Torres
The Chelsea squad appears to have fantastic strength in depth this season, you can clearly see that by the sheer number of midfielders they have and the fact they appear to have a solid back up player in most positions. Leaving out players such as Bertrand, Luiz, Lampard, Marin, Sturridge, Mikel and Meireles will be tough for Di Matteo. Keeping morale high amongst the whole squad and getting them to perform together may be a kep factor in success this season.
Key Player - Essien
Chelsea have enough attacking flair going forward to not have to rely on just one so therefore if Essien stays fit then he adds a steel to the Chelsea back-line that won’t be unnoticed and will add a lot of clean sheets to the Chelsea season
Predicted finish - 3rd
Chelsea now have an incredibly capable side and can cause every team problems now, but there is still always the possibility that the old Chelsea inconsistency will come into play and cost them some significant results. However I predict Chelsea will have a good season and be in the running for a domestic trophy again.
After spending years as 'the second team in Liverpool' things on Merseyside changed last year as the Toffees finished above their big city rivals for the first time in years. Could this be the start of something good for the blues? A troublesome summer has followed, little money is available, as ever, for new players and they have been forced to sell two of their well established players in Cahill and Rodwell to bring in Pienaar again.
Their start to the campaign this year could be easier, they face an angry United side looking to regain their title after losing it to their own 'City' rivals and Everton's typical slow start to the season could reappear at a bad time.
Transfers
In - Steven Naismith, Steven Pienaar
Out - Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Marcus Hahnemann, James McFadden, Denis Stracqualursi (end of loan), Royston Drenthe (end of loan)
First Team
Howard, Baines, Jagielka, Neville (C), Hibbert, Fellaini, Gibson, Pienaar, Osman, Naismith, Jelavic
Everton have a solid starting lineup with a central defensive partnershp that could be tricky to break down. Players such as Ross Barkley, Seamus Coleman, Sylvain Distin and John Heitinga provide decent backups. However, if injuries strike, their squad is small and could struggle under pressure.
Key Player- Marouane Fellaini
The charismatic Belgian midfielder is a rock for Everton, providing defensive solidarity but also a real aerial threat in the box. When he performs, so do the team and he often reflects the overall performance of the side.
Predicted Finish- 8th
Everton have a solid starting lineup with a central defensive partnershp that could be tricky to break down. Players such as Ross Barkley, Seamus Coleman, Sylvain Distin and John Heitinga provide decent backups. However, if injuries strike, their squad is small and could struggle under pressure.
Key Player- Marouane Fellaini
The charismatic Belgian midfielder is a rock for Everton, providing defensive solidarity but also a real aerial threat in the box. When he performs, so do the team and he often reflects the overall performance of the side.
Predicted Finish- 8th
Another solid season is in the offing for the Toffees, however, with their losses, I dont see them challenging the better sides this year. They will continue to be niggly at home, and will maybe upset a few sides at Goodison Park however, away from home against the bigger sides, they will struggle.
Martin Jol's Fulham side could be in for a tricky season this year. They have lost a number of decent players in the off season, and replaced them with largely unknown qualities. Hugo Rodallega will have to prove himself after a lacklustre season with Wigan. It is looking increasingly likely that their star player Clint Dempsey may also leave and if rumours are to be believed, Moussa Dembele could follow him.
Last Season was a good one for the Cottagers, finishing ninth in a season in which Clint Dempsey was fantastic and well supported by those around him. That feat will be tough to replicate this year.
Transfers
In - Hugo Rodallega, Mladen Petric, Sascha Riether
Out - Danny Murphy, Andy Johnson, Orlando Sa, Marcel Gecov, Dickson Etuhu, Bjorn Riise, Pavel Pogrebnyak (end of loan)
First Team
Schwarzer, Riise, Hangeland (C), Senderos, Baird, Diarra, Sidwell, Duff, Dembele, Rodallega
We expect Fulham to lose Clint Dempsey this summer, therefore their team will have to adapt. Diarra looked solid in midfield last year and is a good, experienced passer of the ball. Rodallega may start upfront but will face some compteition for his place from Petric and Bryan Ruiz. Youngsters such as Kasami and Frei will see action in domestic cup competitions and there is good back up in defence from Senderos and Hughes.
Key Player- Moussa Dembele
Another key Belgian, should he stay, he is the link between midfield and the forward(s) and can score goals and create them in many passages of play. If he stays, we see a brighter outcome for the Cottagers this season.
Predicted Finish- 10th
A season of ups and downs is ahead for Fulham. They may find it hard against the bigger sides, as then tend to every year, and home form will be vital yet again for them as theyre not so good away from home.
Transfers
In - Fabio Borini, Joe Allen, Oussama Assaidi
Out - Fabio Aurelio, Dirk Kuyt, Maxi Rodriguez, Alberto Aquilani, Craig Bellamy
First Team
Reina, Enrique, Agger, Skrtel, Johnson, Lucas, Gerrard (C), Adam, Allen, Downing, Suarez
The defence is fairly solid and can be expected for most games this season. Carragher is older now and seems to make more mistakes, as shown last term. Manchester City have been linked with Skrtel, but we expect him to stay. In midfield, we can expect to see some rotation with Joe Allen starting some games and Jordan Henderson, Jonjo Shelvey, Jay Spearing and maybe Joe Cole being given chances. It is expected, as said already by Brendan Rodgers, that Andy Carroll won't be at Liverpool this season. Therefore, Suarez will be likely to take the sole striking role. Look out for defenders Martin Kelly, John Flanagan and Jack Robinson making occasional appearances in the lineup, expecially in the cups.
Key Player- Luis Suarez
Should he keep himself available and free from controversy, he will be the key man this year. He has the ability to convert the chances into goals, something Liverpool struggled with last year. Closing out more matches with more goals could mean a stronger finish.
Predicted Finish- 7th
Last season's finish below Everton will not be repeated , however I feel they still lack the firepower to challenge for a top four place. Again, a domestic cup may be the best they can hope for this season. The additional Champions League campaign may mean that the squad tires towards the end of the season.
Transfers
In - Jack Rodwell
Out - Gai Assulin, Owen Hargreaves, Stuart Taylor, Andrea Mancini, Wayne Bridge (loan)
First Team
Hart, Richards, Lescott, Kompany (C), Zabaleta, Y.Toure, Barry, Nasri, Silva, Tevez, Aguero
There are doubts about just who will start the games for City this season. Micah Richards is the vice-captain, therefore we expect him to play. However, he could easily be replaced in the side by Kolarov as a wing-back. Gael Clichy is likely to start on the bench, even though he might walk into most first teams!
Gareh Barry is a fitness doubt, if so he will be replaced by Nigel De Jong. However, epect to see that kind of lineup for most games in a 4-3-1-2 formation. Dzeko, Rodwell, Balotelli and Milner will see opportunities and Emmanuel Adebayor may see some action if he stays at the Etihad.
Key Player- Yaya Toure
When he plays, City can expect to win the game, that is how influential we feel he is. City looked a different side without him on occasion last season.
Predicted Finish- 2nd
This will be another fantastic season for City and having already won the Charity Shield, have the first Silverware of the season. However, we see Manchester United just pipping them to the title. City will qualify for the knockout stages in the Champions League and may progress towards the Quarter Final. The FA Cup can be a possible expectation for this season.
The Red Devils, pipped to the title by their bitter 'City' rivals last season, will be likely to return with a bigger hunger than ever before to regain the Premier League trophy. They have made a statement of intent, spending over the summer to secure Shinji Kagawa and Robin Van Persie and now have possibly the best overall strikeforce in Europe.
Transfers
In - Shinji Kagawa, Robin Van Persie, Nick Powell, Angelo Henriquez
Out - Tomasz Kuszczak, Michael Owen, Richie De Laet, Oliver Norwood, Ji Sung Park, Paul Pogba, Fabio (loan), Ben Amos (loan), John Cofie (loan)
First Team
De Gea, Rafael, Vidic (C), Ferdinand, Evra, Valencia, Scholes, Kagawa, Nani, Rooney, Van Persie
With Kagawa likely to play an attacking role, Nani may be swapped for the likes of Carrick or Cleverley on occasion. Valencia, as shown last season, is a key part of the team, providing assists and key goals. De Gea will be likely to have a stronger season and more clean sheets can be expected from this solid side. Expect to see Ryan Giggs also feature in important games,
Key Player- Paul Scholes
So much will be made of the talent in the side, however, the cog that holds it together with his experience and passing skill is Paul Scholes. When he plays well, United tend to make the game look easy.
Predicted Finish- 1st
They will have a massive desire to regain the title tis season, made all the more poignant by the fact their City rivals beat them to it last time. The title fight will be a very close one, possibly between three sides, but we think United will just have the quality and drive to find success this year. Their Champions League campaign will need to improve should they wish to progress in the competition. The new Capital One trophy could also be a target, with the fringe players looking to make an impact here.
A fantastic season in the North East finished last year with slight disappointment as after all their grind and fight, Newcastle missed out on 4th place. This year they're back in European competition and we believe this could be another good season. The relatively new squad gelled together last year quickly, and will have a great understanding after a long pre-season. Look out for a full season of goalscoring from Papiss Cisse and Demba Ba (who looks likely to stay)
Alan Pardew has built a fantastic side who can challenge anyone at home and that has a number of fantastic players.
Transfers
In - Gael Bigirimana, Romain Amalfitano, Curtis Good, Vurnon Anita
Out - Danny Guthrie, Peter Lovenkrands, Alan Smith, Leon Best, Fraser Forster, Tamas Kadar
First Team
Krul, Simpson, Coloccini (C), S.Taylor, R.Taylor, Tiote, Cabaye, Gutierrez, Ben Arfa, Ba, Cisse
The starting lineup will be very similar to that of last season with one or two changes. However, on the bench is where there are changes. Amalfitano, Anita an Bigirimana will probably see game time off the bench. This means their squad strength in depth is stronger this year, possibly allowing more of a challenge for silverware.
Key Player- Hatem Ben Arfa
The creative mind in the Newcastle midfield, he passes the ball well and creates a lot of goalscoring oportunities. His link between the midfield and the strikers is vital.
Predicted Finish- 4th
We believe Newcastle are in for a fantastic season, after a year to gel as a team, they will be a tight knit unit. This will make them tough to beat agin, as proven last season and their home form is good. We think they are in line for a Champions League place this season.
The Canaries has a good season last year under the tutilage of Paul Lambert. However, Lambert has now gone, and the players they have brought in are a largely unproven force at this level. They may have to rely on the same home form shown last season in order to stay away from the drop zone this season as the 'Second season syndrome' could strike.
Transfers
In - Stephen Whitaker, Robert Snodgrass, Michael Turner, Jacob Butterfield
Out - Adam Drury, Aaron Wilbraham, Zak Whitbread, Daniel Ayala (loan)
First Team
Ruddy, Garrido, Turner, Whitaker, Ward, Johnson, Snodgrass, Bennett, Surman, Holt, Pilkington
This is a team that may suffer if injuries strike, they don't have a huge strength in depth in the squad. John Ruddy may be vital to a good season, the England keeper had a good season last time and will need to again.
Key Player- Grant Holt
His goals last season contributed to a good season and a lot if their wins. Should this happen again this year, he will need to perform again.
Predicted Finish- 19th
Unfortunately, we don't think their squad is strong enough to survive this season in what is likely to be the most competitive yet. Teams that finished lower last term have strengthened where Norwich have stayed similar. We see the second season syndrome striking at Carrow Road.
Transfers
In - Jose Bosingwa, Rob Green, Ryan Nelsen, Andy Johnson, Samba Diakite, Ji Sung Park, Junior Hoilett, Fabio (loan)
Out - Danny Gabbidon, Danny Shittu, Fitz Hall, Akos Buszaky, Rowan Vine, Heidar Helguson, Taye Taiwo (end of loan)
First Team
Green, Fabio, Ferdinand, Nelsen, Bosingwa, Derry, Park Ji Sung, Taarabt, Diakite, Johnson, Cisse
Their first team is tough to select, leaving a few players on the bench will be tricky for Mark Hughes as we see the likes of Zamora, Hoilett, Traore, Clint Hill and Onuoha missing out. This gives them a good looking bench should they need to change things in a game, therefore we see a more promising season ahead. We expect, as rumoured, that Joey Barton will go out on loan after being banned for the beginning of the season.
Key Player- Djibril Cisse
If he is able to stay on the pitch and score goals at the same time, he will provide goals that could win close games this season. Therefore the '6 point games' with sides around them in the table could be won.
Predicted Finish- 13th
A good season is ahead for Rangers as they see a better table position as last year. They will be able to win more games and a better defensive quarter will allow them to concede less in the tight matches.
After getting promoted from the Championship, Reading have prepared for their life in the Premier League. They have made a number of signings, most notably that of Pavel Pogrebnyak who proved he is a goalscorer last season at Fulham. They will ned all the help they can get to survive a tough first season in the top league.
Transfers
In - Garath McCleary, Pavel Porgebnyak, Adrian Mariappa, Danny Guthrie, Chris Gunter, Nicky Shorey
Out - Tomasz Cywka, Andy Griffin, Brian Howard, Mathieu Manset
First Team
Federici, Shorey, Mariappa, Gorkss, Pearce, McAnuff (C), Guthrie, Karacan, Kebe, Porgebnyak, Hunt
The Reading team has been strengthened, but not to the level that might challenge in the Premier League. Pogrebnyak can score the goals, but he needs the service and there is no standout provider of them in the side. Jem Karacan is a good player, but may struggle to adapt to the higher level.
Key Player- Jobi McAnuff
The Captain will need to pull the side together if they end up in a relegation fight, he is a rock in the midfield for the Royals and will continue to be this season.
Predicted Finish- 20th
Unfortunately, we can't see Reading surviving this season. They will find the step up tough and as shown when they have promoted before, struggle to cope in the top flight. Their season won't be an unmitigated disaster similar to that seen in the past but they could find themselves in the relegation zone.
Transfers
In - Jay Rodriguez, Nathaniel Clyne, Paulo Gazzaniga, Steven Davis
Out - Radhi Jaidi, David Connolly, Aaron Martin
First Team
Davis (C), Clyne, Fonte, Hooiveld, Fox, Guly, Lallana, Cork, Davis, Lambert, Rodriguez
The Southampton team looks decent on paper, the biggest worry will be their defence and its relative lack of experience. Rickie Lambery will look to have another successful season in the striking role and Rodriguez could be a good signing for a club record fee. If rumours are to be believed, thy are close to breaking the bank once again to sign Uruguayan internatioal Gaston Ramirez. He would be a major coup for the South Coast side.
Key Player- Rickie Lambert
He could be the man to score the goals that keep the Saints in the Premier League. If he fires this year, this would releae pressure on the entire team.
Predicted Finish- 18th
We think they may come up just short in the end as the pains of a long season may impact on the squad. They will probably be close to the drop zone throughout the season, however they could stay up should they get a good start or a run of solid results.
The Potters have spent seasons in the Premier League playing a defensive style of Football. They have made a living out of being stubborn and griding out results at the Brittania Stadium while being unspectacular away from home. Tony Pulis hasn't seen much rebuliding over the summer with only a couple of names coming into the club and a few leaving. This season could be a struggle for Pulis' men.
Transfers
In - Jamie Ness, Geoff Cameron, Michael Kightly, Goran Popov
Out - Ricardo Fuller, Mamady Sidibe, Salif Diao, Michael Tonge, Jonathan Woodgate, Florent Cuvelier (loan), Danny Collins
First Team
Begovic, Higginbotham, Huth, Upson, Shawcross, Palacios, Delap, Kightly, Etherington, Crouch, Jones
The Stoke side is a paradox, it is one that has attacking talent, but rarely uses it well. They play a defensive, physical style of Football. Michael Kightly will play in the midfield and provide a bigger attacking threat than in previous years. A good attacking season for Crouch and Kenwyne Jones may be the key to a reasonable finish. A good run would do the side the world of good in sustaining a league challenge.
Key Players- Peter Crouch
Capable of genius on occasions, as shown last season, Crouch could be a high goalscorer if he is given the service. He might get this from Kightly and Etherington but will need it consistently in order to fire Stoke to a few vital wins.
Predicted Finish- 15th
We see a tough season ahead for the Potters, despite their good side, their defensive style doesn't help them and with a league full of attacking teams and talent, it is likely they may find their dependance on home form not good enough.
The Black Cats suffered at the start of last season however a strong finish meant that their finish was solid if not outstanding. Martin O'Neill will reinvent his squad again without the Asamoah Gyan saga and may see a better spirit and effort this time around.
Sunderland have been the least active in the market, only bringing in Carlos Cuellar from Aston Villa, however, their losses aren't so bad for them to be concerned.
Transfers
In - Carlos Cuellar
Out - Craig Gordon, George McCartney, Cristian Riveros, Asamoah Gyan, Michael Turner
First Team
Mignolet, Bardsley, Cuellar, Brown, O'Shea, Cattermole (C), Larsson, Gardner, Sessegnon, Saha, Campbell
This Sunderland side is packed full of the potential to build a solid run of results. Whether they can do that, is another thing. They often find themselves in winning positions only to go on and draw the game. In a very competitive league this season they need to find this winning formula. Sessegnon will play behind the front two, he is a good link up man and will score goals. Simon Mignolet looks to have been given the pass to tne No.1 shirt after Craig Gordon was released over the summer.
Key Player- Sebastian Larsson
Larsson is a very creative player and his ability to take a quality free-kick marks him out as a danger. If he performs well this season, Sunderand can expect a fairly high table placing.
Predicted Finish- 9th
A solid season is ahead for the Black Cats, with Martin O'Neill pulling the strings once more, we feel this could be a good season for them. A good cup run is possibly the best they can hope for, but their squad is enough that they won't be dragged into the bottom half.
With success comes negatives however, as their star players hav been courted by the big clubs around England. As a result, Swansea have needed to do a little bit of rejigging. Brendan Rodgers, their mastermind manager, has moved on and so in comes Michael Laudrup, an unplayed hand in the Premier League.
Losing their two best players from last season won't have helped their cause for this season either; the loss of Gylfi Sigurdsson and Joe Allen will leave a dent in the side.
Transfers
In - Chico, Jonathan de Guzman, Michu, Itay Shechter (loan)
Out - Joe Allen, Ferrie Bodde, Jose Moreira, Gylfi Sigurdsson (end of loan)
First Team
Vorm, N.Taylor, Williams, Monk (C), Tate, Dyer, Britton, De Guzman, Sinclair, Graham, Shechter
Everpresent Michel Vorm will have to be on top form again in order to ensure Swansea keep out goalscoring opportunities. The midfiel has lost a passing maestro in Joe Allen who formed a great partnership with Leon Britton. However, De Guzman is an accomplished player who may prove an astute signing. Itay Shechter is likely to partner Danny Graham upfront should Laudrup decide on a 4-4-2 formation.
Key Player- Leon Britton
With Joe Allen, he ran the games for Swansea last season, he can be a vital part of the team again this year. He is the most capped member of the side and will give experience to the side while creating chances for the front two.
Predicted Finish- 14th
We cant see Swansea climbing to the heady hights of where they were last year. However, they're a decent enough side to not be worried about the drop. Second season syndrome won't strike for the Swans, but they may wish for a better opening day, as they have failed to win in their last 6 openers.
After battling for the entirety of last season, Spurs came up just short to their rivals Arsenal, despite the Arsenal having a relatively scratchy season in parts.
This season they're back and are yet again among a Luka Modric transfer saga, we expect him to leave White Hart Lane before the end of the transfer window. He could possibly leave a large hole in the side.
Harry Redknapp, the old head, has departed and in comes Chelsea 'reject' Andre Villas-Boas. Will he have more success there than he did at Stamford Bridge?
Transfers
In - Gylfi Sigurdsson, Jan Vertonghen
Out - Ryan Nelsen, Niko Kranjcar, Louis Saha, Ledley King, Vedran Corluka, Steven Pienaar, Bongani Khumalo (loan), Ben Alnwick, Emmanuel Adebayor (end of loan)
First Team
Friedel, Assou-Ekotto, Vertonghen, Dawson (C), Walker, Parker, Sigurdsson, Sandro, Bale, Van der Vaart, Defoe
Brad Friedel, despite being into his 40's will continue as No.1, no doubt keeping Heurelho Gomes twiddling his thumbs on the bench. Michael Dawson will return to captain the side, and hope to stay clear on injury this season, alongside new signing Jan Vertonghen. Sigurdsson will probably slot into the midfield making a very strong quartet in the middle of the park. Rafael Van der Vaart will continue to play behind a lone striker, this time that man is Jermain Defoe.
Key Player- Michael Dawson
When he is fit, Tottenham's defence looks stronger. The replacements are often unsure in their performances and so Tottenham will be hoping he can stay fit this time aroud.
Predicted Finish- 5th We think Tottenham will manage again to perform to their potential this season, despite the new manager. They will also, just about, manage to overtake their old foes Arsenal. Their side is good enough to challenge in the Leagues elite, however, they seem to have problems against 'the big 4' clubs, therefore need to rectify this issue.
Transfers
In - Ben Foster, Yacine El Ghanassy (loan), Romelu Lukaku (loan), Markus Rosenberg, Claudio Yacob
Out - Paul Scharner, Nicky Shorey, Somen Tchoyi, Keith Andrews, Marton Fulop, Simon Cox
First Team
Foster, Ridgewell, Olsson, Reid, Jara, Brunt (C), Morrison, Dorrans, Mulumbu, Odemwingie, Lukaku
We think the West Brom side has a good balance to it, and an element of grit in the midfield with the battling Chris Brunt captain this season. Ben Foster is a fantastic signing and will no doubt make some good saves this season. Shane Long may just miss out in favour of the powerful Romelu Lukaku however, expect to see him as substitute.
Key Player- Chris Brunt
The Captain is the main cog in the side and controls the game well. He can bring the side together and isn't afraid to make himself heard when it is needed, while also contributing a few goals.
Predicted Finish- 12th
Maybe the heady hights of where they finished last season is a step to far this time around under the new manager, however, a good finish can be expected and their home form will be good.
Transfers
In - Mohamed Diame, Jussi Jaaskelainen, Stephen Henderson, George McCartney, Raphael Spiegel, Modibo Maiga, Alou Diarra, James Collins
Out - Rob Green, Frank Nouble, Papa Bouba Diop, Abdoulaye Faye, John Carew, Julian Faubert, Freddie Sears, Pablo Barrera, Marek Stech, Ravel Morrison (loan)
First Team
Jaaskelainen, Reid, Tomkins, Collins, McCartney, Nolan (C), Noble, Diame, Diarra, Cole, Maiga
This has the makings of a good Premier League side on paper, with a very agressive midfield who will be tough to overcome. Their defence is where they look in danger and the capture of Jussi Jaaskelainen, with is experience, may be key. Nicky Maynard and Ricardo Vaz Te can provide attacking threat off the bench.
Key Player- Kevin Nolan
The Captain and the midfield battler, Nolan has a sketchy discipline record however, if he can keep that under wraps, he is a good player and can contribute vital goals at good times. Motivation is something he has lots of and so giving his players a rocket when they're 'slacking off' won't be a problem.
Predicted Finish- 11th
We think they will arive this season with a determination to stay in the League and not to return to another season of fighting for Promotion. Therefore coupled with their good signings, a mid table finish could be realistic under a manager who knows his stuff.
Last but not least in this Premier League dogfight, the perennial survivers, Wigan. Under Roberto Martinez, they appear to be able to pull performances out of the bag when they need to, but are far from consistent and often pick up their points in the latter weeks of the season. Drawing comments that fans may aswell not turn up for the first half of the season and then buy a ticket for the second half can't be good for team morale.
This season, they may find it tougher than ever in a more competitive Premier League,acould go to the wire for the Latics once more.
Transfers
In - Fraser Fyvie, Arouna Kone, Ivan Ramis, Ryo Miyaichi (loan)
Out - Mohamed Diame, Chris Kirkland, Hendry Thomas, Hugo Rodallega
First Team
Al-Habsi, Figueroa, Caldwell (C), Ramis, Alcaraz, Watson, McCarthy, Maloney, Gomez, Moses, Kone
Wigan are an attacking side, but their defence often looks shaky and poor. This works against them in many games when they concede after being on the attack. Their attacking players are of a decent standard and we believe Victor Moses will eventually stay this Summer. Arouna Kone is a powerful striker who is good in the air, therefore if he gets service, there could be quite a few goals!
Key Player- Victor Moses
If he stays, Wigan will create lots of chances as he is a good player and will contribute a few goals aswell. If he leaves, Wigan will have lost a few star players, any may find it tough to survive.
Predicted Finish- 17th
We think that old resiliance to the drop will appear again but another season of battling beckons for Martinez's men. A finish around 14/15th may be the best they can hope for realistically.
Nothing is certain in the Premier League however, we are sure a thrilling season full or drama and twists and turns lies ahead.
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