Christian Brown’s npower Championship 2011/12 Preview - Part One

The Football Front’s Christian Brown in a three feature takes a look at the chances of the team’s in the npower Championship

It is well known that the npower Championship is arguably the most competitive league in the world. This as a result therefore leaves a predicament for everyone trying to predict what will happen, as you will undoubtedly be wrong. A team expected to blow the division apart will catastrophically fail, and a team that everyone assumes all the nails in the coffin have been planted will defy the odds and miraculously stay up, or even sometimes go up. This article will well and truly put my neck on the proverbial line so to speak, so let’s gingerly begin.

Club analysis

Barnsley – 2010/11 finish: 17^th

Towards the end of last season, Barnsley fans may have been forgiven for feeling optimistic for the season ahead. They had survived Adam Hammill leaving for Wolves, and Barnsley secured their best finish for 5 years. Then it all turned upside down, as Mark Robins left under acrimonious circumstances, with Keith Hill coming in. Hill has a huge job on his hands, as many of those players seemed hugely loyal to Robins, and bringing in unproven Rochdale players from League 1 will not improve on 17^th place. Keith Hill should have stayed at Spotland, as he’s going back the way he came. Position – 23^rd

Birmingham City – 2010/11 finish: 18^th (relegated from Premier League)

You have to feel for Birmingham. Conceding a 96^th minute goal against Spurs and Blackburn’s inability to defend cost them a place in the Premier League, despite Birmingham winning the Carling Cup. After that kick in the private area, Alex McLeish left to take over hated rivals Aston Villa, and to rub salt in the wounds further, it now seems that as owner Carson Yeung’s assets have been frozen. The club may have to sell star players to avoid administration. Despite this however, Birmingham have a lot of strength in depth, such as teen sensation Jordon Mutch, and while this may not be the instant return they hoped for under new boss Chris Houghton, they’ll push it right to the wire. Position – 7^th

Blackpool – 2010/11 finish: 19^th (relegated from Premier League)

And so, rather ironically, the fairy tale dream of Premier League survival for Blackpool ended at the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ that is Old Trafford. In some ways, this is a blessing. The inevitable exit of Charlie Adam would have meant that they’d have perhaps broken Derby’s dismal record of 11 points if they’d stayed up, as Adam ran the show for Blackpool. The problem Ian Holloway has to address now is how to replace him in a league below. The fact is you can’t replace a player of that much quality, although the experienced head of new arrival Barry Ferguson will help...but still won’t be enough for the Seasiders to bounce back at first attempt. Position – 12^th

Brighton & Hove Albion – 2010/11 finish: 1^st (promoted as champions from League One)

So Brighton return to the Championship after a 5 year absence, but what can we expect from them? Can they do a Norwich’ and finish second? Or in typical Brighton style, end up requiring a miracle to stay up on the final day? The way their pre season started, it seemed the latter would be occurring, as top scorer Glenn Murray and top assist leader Elliot Bennett departed the club, joining Crystal Palace and Norwich respectively. These players have been replaced however, notably Murray with Mackail-Smith from Peterborough. If he can get a partnership with fellow new recruit Will Hoskins and if Buckley can do half as good a job as Bennett did last year, then Brighton will do neither of the scenarios – but will stay up comfortably. Position – 18^th

Bristol City – 2010/11 finish: 15^th

Bristol City. The team who were supposed to set the league alight last season. Well they didn’t. There are numerous factors for this, the notable ones being that as good a goalkeeper David James is, he’s not a defence on his own. While upfront, Nicky Maynard got injured. However, this season they have Maynard back now, the question is whether he’ll be playing with the same commitment as to when he first joined. Maynard may have perhaps had his head turned by the intensifying interest shown in him by bigger clubs. To make things more unsettling, Maynard has one year left to run on his contract. This only increases speculation; speculation that will affect him, and therefore the team. Position – 14^th

Burnley – 2010/11 finish: 8^th

Owen Coyle may have been hated before by the Burnley fans for leaving the club on the lurch. While Burnley got relegated and failed to achieve promotion back to the Premier League at the first attempt. However, the degree of hate will have increased now. Chris Eagles and Tyrone Mears, 2 crucial cogs in Burnley’s ‘machine’, have joined Coyle’s Bolton. Eddie Howe will now have his work cut out, as his best winger and best full back have gone – with little time to find a suitable replacement for both. It looks like it’s going to be a long season ahead for Clarets fans. Position – 15^th

Cardiff City – 2010/11 finish: 4^th

Last season’s failure in the play offs meant that Cardiff had ‘bottled it’ for the third time in three years. It was a failure which cost Dave Jones his job. Initially the doom and gloom stayed around the club for a while, with key players such as Jay Bothroyd leaving. But now, Malky Mackay has taken over, and replaced the departing players with arguably better players. The additions of Don Cowie and Kenny Miller signify ambition, but it’s the return of Bluebirds hero Robbie Earnshaw that has reinstalled the faith. There is still a very strong possibility a certain talisman named Craig Bellamy may return to the club...a strong season ahead. Position – 3^rd

Coventry City – 2010/11 finish: 18^th

One my main memories of Coventry City is when they got relegated from the Premier League. One fan had a banner reading “We’ll be back”. They still haven’t returned, and they definitely won’t return this year – or the one after. The Sky Blues have been involved in the most disastrous summer imaginable, with three quarters of their spine (Westwood, Crainie, Gunnarsson and King) all leaving, with only Crainie remaining at the club. City fans know all too well the importance Westwood and King in particular, and their departures will have hurt the club a lot. Andy Thorn will have no chance unfortunately, but it’s not his fault. Position – 22^nd

Part Two will be available on Tuesday 2^nd August

This piece was written by Christian Brown, you can follow him on his Twitter - @Chris78901, Chris also writes for The Sports Pallet too. All of Chris' work is on his blog, 1-chris78901.

Things you may like to read

Splintered Woodgate’s final chance

The Championship. Is it more competitive than ever before?

Matt Bruce’s npower League Two 2011/12 Review – Part One

Why Charlie Adam is a good signing for Liverpool

Liverpool have finally got their man, after a 7 month chase, Charlie Adam is a Liverpool player.

But, there has been some question marks over whether Adams is good enough for Liverpool.

Despite this, I believe Adam will improve the team.

The key component of Charlie Adam’s game is his passing. This cannot be denied, Adam is a fine passer of the ball, its transparent the player can pass exquisitely with both feet. The stats prove this too. Last season, Charlie Adam made 2059 passes, he had a pass completion rate of 67%. This is a particularly impressive record, seeing it was the player’s first season in the Premier League.

One could argue, Liverpool have been deprived of a long range passer ever since the departure of Xabi Alonso in 2009. Now of course, Steven Gerrard is a fantastic long range passer. But no one can deny, Gerrard is far better when he is utilised in a more offensive position. Indeed, Charlie Adam will bring his long passing capabilities to the table. Surely this is beneficial for Liverpool? Especially as Liverpool play with a high tempo. Adam’s long passing range will give Liverpool the edge on their counter attacks.

Many observers of the game argue that Adam tries too many ‘Hollywood’ balls thus resulting in him being wasteful in possession.

But, things will be different for Adam at Liverpool.

At Blackpool, Adam was the most technically gifted passer of the ball. He was Blackpool’s main catalyst. So he was given the licence to use the ball with far more freedom.

While at Liverpool, Adam will not be given as much freedom. He will be expected to play to his duties in Liverpool’s three man midfield. If Adam is wasteful with over ambitious long passes. He will be dropped. It’s as simple as that. Liverpool has more depth than Blackpool. This means if Adam isn’t fulfilling his role, another competent midfielder will take his place.

Furthermore, Adam’s role in the team will be to create chances for his team mates. The Scotsman has proved he can do this. Last season, Charlie Adam made 64 key passes. Luka Modric, Aarron Lennon and Nani all made the same amount of key passes. It’s clearly an extraordinary record, especially when you consider Blackpool were relegated. This remarkable stat reinforces the idea of Liverpool acquiring players with ‘vision.’ Most teams come to Anfield and play 11 men behind the ball and often Liverpool have found it hard to create and expose their opposition. This statistic is proof that Liverpool are acquiring a player who can unlock teams at the Premier League level. The fact he has a better key passes record than any Liverpool player, it proves he is a highly credented signing for the club.

Adam’s fantastic accuracy with his set pieces will give Liverpool another dimension. Especially since Liverpool have aerially dominating players, such as Kuyt, Carroll, Skrutel and others.

This trend of Adam creating more chances than most Liverpool players continues. Adam assisted 8 of Blackpool goals last season. And yet again, that’s more than any Liverpool player. Of course Adam has been reasonably sloppy at times, but surely his high level of assists shows he is a player who can contribute and can make a difference. Liverpool desperately need players like this. Over the past few years, Liverpool had become mega dependent on Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. Now Liverpool are creating a skilled squad with players who can bring something unique to the team, rather than relying on individuals.

Besides Charlie Adam’s attacking competencies, the defensive part of his game is solid too. Last season Adam made 62 successful tackles. This was more than Raul Meireles who made 55 successful tackles. Perhaps, something which Liverpool’s central midfielders have lacked in recent times is players who can successfully win the ball.

Indeed, a common criticism of Meireles and Aquilani is that both players tackling hasn’t been up to scratch. While in contrast, with Adam, Liverpool have a player who has proven he can not only attack the ball, he can successfully challenge for the too.

Furthermore, Adam won 50 of his aerial duels last season, thus giving him a 56% aerial success rate. Perhaps this symbolises the fact Liverpool have brought a well rounded player. Damien Comolli reinstates this, ‘He’s [Charlie Adam] has got the power, strength, stamina and then technically, he’s got an absolute fantastic left foot.’

Charlie Adam’s competence in attacking and defending stems from his personality. The Scotsman’s leadership, hunger and determination are all traits which should be admired. He was Blackpool’s 'captain fantastic' last season. There is no denying this. Adam’s personality on the pitch will raise his new team mates performances, and not only this, it will inspire the crowd and liven them up even more. Having this desire and hunger to win is something that will always be appreciated in football, especially by the Liverpool fans.

However, with this desire to win, it is also where Charlie Adam’s wastefulness creeps in. Last season. Adam had 2.3 shots per game. This was even more than Luis Suarez who had 1.7 shots per game.

It’s clear some of Adam’s flaws are over inflated. A quick look at the players statistics prove the player is a highly productive player. Furthermore, Adam’s mobility along with his technical proficiency will suit Liverpool’s style. The Scotsman’s creativity will make the lives of Gerrard, Carroll and Suarez far more easier.

Charlie Adam may not be the most glamorous of players, due to his tenacious characteristics on the pitch.

But there is one word that sums him up.

Productivity.

Charlie Adam 2010/11 Premier League Statistics
Starts	34
Goals	12
Minutes	3,051
Assists	8
Crossing Accuracy	23%
Pass completion	67%
Key Passes	64
Shooting accuracy	61%
Shots on target	68
Shots off target	44
Successful tackles	62
Aerial duels	50
Aerial duel success %	56%

Things you may like to read

Why it's only right Kenny Dalglish got the Liverpool job

Why Charlie Adam should see out the season with Blackpool

4-4-2 It's failings and former successes

Premier League predictions 22/06

It’s the final Premier League week. But, there is still plenty to fight for. The relegation spots are by no means a done deal. Birmingham, Wolves, Wigan, Blackpool, and Blackburn could all join West Ham in the Championship next season.

This week, our predictors are, James Taylor and Liam Blackburn.

Fixture	Ibby Akkas prediction		James Taylor prediction		Liam Blackburn prediction		Actual Result
Aston Villa v Liverpool	1-2		1-1		1-1		1-0
Bolton v Man City	1-1		1-2		1-3		0-2
Everton v Chelsea	3-2		1-1		0-0		1-0
Fulham v Arsenal	1-1		2-1		1-2		2-2
Man United v Blackpool	3-1		2-0		2-0		4-2
Newcastle v West Brom	2-1		1-1		3-1		3-3
Stoke v Wigan	2-1		2-2		1-1		0-1
Tottenham v Birmingham	1-0		2-0		1-0		2-1
West Ham v Sunderland	2-1		2-1		0-1		0-3
Wolves v Blackburn	2-0		1-0		2-2		2-3
Total Correct Scores	Correct Results - 4	Perfect Results - 0	Correct Results - 4	Perfect Results - 0	Correct Results - 4	Perfect Results - 0

The Results

James Taylor - 4 Points

Liam Blackburn - 4 Points

Ibby Akkas - 4 Points

The Point System

Correct Result = 1 point

Perfect Result = 3 points

You can follow James Taylor on his Twitter - @James11Taylor

Take a look at his blog too - bringingthegameintodisrepute.wordpress.com

Our other predictor is on Twitter too - @liamblackburn

His blog is definitely worth read as well! - samenamedifferentgames.wordpress.com

Things you may like to read

Premier League relegation predictions - http://tiny.cc/y943d

Stoke City – The symbol of progression - http://tiny.cc/azbvf

Why it’s only right Kenny Dalglish got the Liverpool job - http://tiny.cc/ttj43

Proud Holloway blasts FA chiefs - Video

Ian Holloway is a great speaker. He speaks his mind and he speaks sense. It's no surprise that many football fans relate to Ian Holloway. They see him as an advocate for the game. He is someone who views the game like the fans and someone who views the game with common sense.

Here is Holloway's pre Man United press conference. Its yet another brilliant Ian Holloway press conference.



Things you may like to read

Stoke City – The symbol of progression - http://tiny.cc/azbvf

Why it’s only right Kenny Dalglish got the Liverpool job - http://tiny.cc/ttj43

Why its a disgrace Blackpool have been fined for fielding a 'weakened team' - http://tiny.cc/awlpn

Premier League Relegation Predictions

Relegation’ is the word on everyone’s lips ahead of the Premier League finale. Wolves, Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan could all join West Ham in the Championship next season. Perhaps, this is the most hotly contested relegation battle the Premier League has ever seen.

Here are my predictions for the final Premier League games of the season.

Man United v Blackpool

Man United will probably field a relatively weakened side against Blackpool. Its clear Sir Alex Ferguson will want to protect his key players ahead of the European Cup final against Barcelona.

To some, this may provide a chance for Blackpool. Perhaps it does. But Man United’s ‘weakened side’ is still a very good side. One must consider the second leg of this year’s Champions League the semi final. Man United played a rotated side against Schalke. That side smashed Schalke 4-1.

Furthermore, Man United have a formidable home record this season. In the Premier League, they have a 94% winning ratio at home. That is sensational. In fact, it’s the joint highest winning ratio in Premier League history. (Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea in the (2005/06) also had a 94% winning ratio.) So, Man United at home, even with a weakened side will be incredibly difficult for Blackpool.

Prediction: 3-1

Stoke v Wigan

This is a really tough game for Wigan. The Lactics may be coming into some form, as they are unbeaten in their last three matches. But Stoke will be up for this game. Stoke may be in Europe and are in a relatively pleasing mid table position. But, Stoke have just come off the back of two defeats against Man City and one of those results include a FA Cup Final defeat.

The severe bad news for Wigan is that, Stoke coming into this game are unbeaten in their last 8 home games. Furthermore, because Stoke have just been beaten by Man City in the final. You would expect Stoke to come out and give a real strong performance for their fans, seeing it’s their last home game of the season too.

If Stoke are seriously driven to win, as I expect they will be, I think Wigan will have little chance of getting something out of this game.

Prediction: 2-1

Tottenham v Birmingham City

This is an odd game. It’s odd simply because its depends on how Tottenham play. There’s a lot of speculation that Tottenham are not interested in the Europa League. So they may not turn up against Birmingham City. I would have to disagree. Harry Redknapp is aware that European football is better than no European football. Furthermore, Redknapp knows that being in Europe could be a crucial aspect to whether he can sign top stars in the summer.

It’s clear Birmingham City have had a poor season at home. Their form in the final third of the season has been woeful. Birmingham have not won their last 5 games at home. To make things worse, Birmingham also haven’t won in their last 6 away games. It’s hardly, the most inspiring form ahead of a tough match against a Tottenham side, who have been unbeaten in their last 16 home games.

However, there is a glimpse of hope for Birmingham City. Tottenham have not won their last three home games.

I think it will be a close game, but Spurs will edge it.

Prediction: 1-0

Wolves v Blackburn

This game is a massive opportunity for both teams to confirm their Premier League status for next season. Both sides find themselves level with 40 points. Both teams are also unbeaten in their last three games. It’s going to be a really close game. I Have a feeling it will be the game of the weekend.

But Wolves are at home. This will play a crucial aspect in this fixture. Furthermore, Wolves will feel they have more momentum coming into this game especially after the team beat Sunderland away last weekend.

However, what will further motivate the Wolves players is that Blackburn have a 17% winning ratio away from home this season. It’s a shocking stat for Blackburn. In addition to this, Blackburn haven’t won in their last 8 games away games.

Wolves are the favourites for this game. Their last result saw them win and Mick McCarthy will be demanding Wolves finish the job off at home.

But as we know, relegation candidates are incredibly inconsistent. So anything is possible.

But I’m going for a home win.

Prediction: 2-0

So, here is how my predictions will leave the foot of Premier League standing.

If my predictions are correct, Blackpool and Wigan are the two teams who will go down. But what visibly stands out is that the two teams who go down along with West Ham, they go down due to their goal difference.

Even if my predictions are incorrect, I firmly believe the goal difference statistic will play a massive role in a team’s fate to whether they stay in this division.

It will most certainly be an incredibly tight ending to the Premier League season.

If you’re curious about how my weekend predictions will leave the Premier League standing. Here it is below.

Things you may like to read

Stoke City – The symbol of progression - http://tiny.cc/azbvf

Why it’s only right Kenny Dalglish got the Liverpool job - http://tiny.cc/ttj43

Just how good is Gary Cahill? - http://tiny.cc/jpccx

Why it’s a disgrace Blackpool have been fined for selecting a ‘Weaker team’

Blackpool were fined for £25,000 for fielding a ‘weakened side’ against Aston Villa in November. This fine absolutely disgusts me. It’s a sign of contradiction and hypocrisy from the Premier League.

Yes, Blackpool lost the game, but they played very well and conceded in the 89^th minute. But I’m sure by the end of the game Aston Villa didn’t rate their oppositions as a ‘weakened side.’ The most defiantly saw that Blackpool side as a threat. So is it fair the Premier League deem that Blackpool side as ‘weakened’ seeing they took this Villa team to the wire?

Holloway after the game was clearly incensed by the notion of him fielding a ‘weaker side’ against Villa. He has every right to be offended. Seeing as he played 11 players which were all included in his 25 man squad list. Surely the fact these players are in Holloway’s 25 man squad demonstrates that they are first team players for Holloway. What has Holloway done wrong? Surely he should be allowed to play any player within the enlisted 25 player squad list? Holloway commented, ‘I think it is a total disgrace that I am told who I can pick and when I can pick them.’ Holloway is utterly correct. Who are the Premier League to tell Holloway who to pick? And to have the nerve to question the ability of Blackpool’s players? Holloway wouldn’t play those players if he didn’t think they were competent at the Premier League level. Furthermore the principle of the matter is Holloway fielded 11 players which were enlisted in his 25 man squad list. Its not like he is fielding his under 18 side, Blackpool have done nothing wrong.

Blackpool’s team selection against Villa was deeply compared to when Wolves made 10 changes against Manchester United. Like Blackpool, Wolves were fined £25,000. But Wolves actually won their next which was a vital game against Burnley. Mick McCarthy was doing what he felt was best for his team and their long term ambition of staying in England’s elite league. It angers me that the Premier League assume that Wolves and Blackpool field ‘weaker sides’ because they don’t want to win. Of course they want to win. There just being realistic. They know like every manager, player and fan know that some games are more winnable than others. And some games are labelled to both fans and clubs as ‘must win games.’ And Blackpool saw West Ham as a ‘must win game.’ While Wolves saw Burnley as a ‘must win game.’

One thing which angers smaller teams in the Premier League is that the big boys are given more allowances for different situations on and off the pitch. When it comes to rotation, its fair to say the bigger Premier League clubs can get away with murder.

Liverpool in 2007 fielded a heavily rotated side against Fulham. Liverpool a few weeks later were set to face Milan in the European Cup final. Fulham won the game 1-0. And that victory saved salvaged them from relegation. But no fine was imposed on Liverpool for fielding a ‘weaker side.’ It shows the double standard attitudes of the Premier League as Liverpool in some respects have no league interests. And they are allowed to field a weakened side and have no imposed punishments. While ironically, Blackpool and Wolves rotated in order to achieve their goal of staying in this division. Yet, they were fined.

Fulham last season from around the middle of February began to heavily rotate their squad. As their brilliant Europe League run took priority over the league. Yes, Fulham are still a relatively small club, but is it fair their allowed to forget their league form for Europe? While the likes of Blackpool are fined for prioritising their league survival. Don’t get me wrong, Fulham have every right to field a rotated side in the League, if it means they have a better run in Europe. But it’s the contradictory nature of the Premier League. Who fine clubs for wanting to be in the Premier League for the longer term.

The Premier League should butt out of squad selection matters. Of course they should intervene in certain scenarios along as its within reason. I.e. a team is selecting a squad of 16 year olds. But clubs have every right to choose who they pick for certain games. Its unfair that Premier League can criticise one team then show a blind eye to another. It should be one rule for the whole of the Premier League. England’s bigger sides shouldn’t be exempt from these rules.

The fines for Wolves and Blackpool are disgraceful. After all, they are rotating in order to achieve their prime aim of maintaining their Premier League status. The Premier League have just shown that they are shambolic bunch of know it all’s who don’t know how to be equal and respectable to all 20 Premier League sides.

Watch Blackpool Manager Ian Holloway's responce to the Premier League's imposed fine on Blackpool for fielding a 'weakened side' against Aston Villa in November. Holloway is clearly very emotional at the Premier League decision to fine.

Why Man United’s Victory against Blackpool wasn’t a ‘defining moment’ of their Season

Firstly, hats off to Manchester United. To come back from two down away from home in the Premier League is a feat which should be met with applause and respect. But let us remind ourselves of who Man United are playing. They are playing Blackpool. Yes, they have had an absolutely fantastic season so far, but they are a team who have only won three times at home. So Man United are pretty much expected to take to all three points seeing as Utd’s form has been very impressive this season. Furthermore, Blackpool aren’t known for being defensively astute. They are third in the most conceded goals this season with 41 goals conceded. So Man United should expect Blackpool to lack discipline and solidarity in defence. Thus meaning Man United should expect to have a number of clear cut chances in the match because of Blackpool’s attacking nature.

Man United should actually see this win as an ‘save the blushes’ victory. If they lost this I’m sure the Man United players, staff and fans would be deeply embarrassed. But praise must go to the United players who showed resilience to come back and take all three points.

But this is no where near a ‘defining moment’ for Man United. It must be considered that Man United have to face; Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Sunderland all away from home. Which clearly are very very tough games. Winning against Chelsea or Arsenal away should be considered a ‘defining moment’ in their title challenge.

Why Charlie Adam should see the season through with Blackpool then look to leave the Club

Blackpool have clearly been the surprise package in this season’s Premier League. They have been brilliant with their attacking and counter attacking style and have found themselves beating the likes of Liverpool, Sunderland and Stoke City, all away from home. However, Blackpool’s fantastic season has been arguably centred on the brilliance of their playmaker Charlie Adam. Its fair to say Charlie Adam has been integral in this Blackpool side. His dynamic range of passing gives Blackpool the ability to quickly turn defence into attack. And he has the ability to thread through balls into the final third of the pitch. So its not surprising that more established Premier League clubs are looking to acquire his services. The stats also prove Adam’s importance to the side as he is the joint top assister for Blackpool, with 4 assists.

Adam is the captain of Blackpool too. As captain he has a big responsibility at the club. It also shows how much he is looked up to at Bloomfield road. As Charlie Adam sets the standard for the other Blackpool players with his brilliant ability and work ethic. But the captain handed in his transfer request on Monday (24^th Jan.) This request was rejected by Blackpool. As captain, Adam should see the great responsibility and importance he has at Blackpool. As captain he more than any other player should put the team before his own personal feelings or dreams. The whole point of being a captain is to pull the players in one direction and fighting for one goal. But if the captain isn’t committed to the cause in the long run surely this will create issues within the club. As some players may argue Adam wants to leave the club, so he doesn’t deserve to be captain.

Charlie Adam as the captain should also consider Blackpool’s defence of keeping him. As I’ve said previously in this piece, Blackpool are almost centred around Adam. Everything that’s good about Blackpool stems from him. If Adam were to leave the club in this window, it would leave the club on a lurch. As it’s already very hard to find players with quality in the January market especially with the inflated prices. And finding a replacement for someone who’s so creative for a relatively low price is incredibly difficult in January.

The captain should understand the lurch he will leave Blackpool on. This potential move in January could see Blackpool begin to fall down the table and begin to be part of the relegation battle. As there will be a massive void in Blackpool's midfield. Blackpool wont just lose his superb ability, they will also miss his leadership and the inspiration on the pitch.

Adam would leave Blackpool with far greater respect from his players, manager and Blackpool fans if he were to leave at the end of the season. As he would have seen his job through as captain and as an important player for the club. And more importantly he can help Blackpool stay in the Premier League. Leaving in January has the potential of ruining Blackpool’s fine progress in the Premier League. And maybe the fans and players will ruefully look on at Charlie Adam as his desire to leave stemmed Blackpool’s demise of relegation.

In the summer, Adam will have 12 months left on his contract. If the club want to get a decent amount of money for Adam, they will most defiantly sell him in the summer. So Charlie Adam should have no worries on weather Blackpool will be willing to sell at the end of the season. Blackpool will also have time to find a replacement and will be able to raise a tidy amount in the sale of Adam.

Adam argues, that opportunities like the interest of Liverpool may not come around again. But if Liverpool seriously respected the ability of Adam they would be willing to wait. Furthermore, it may suit Liverpool to wait till the end of the season, as they can pay a lower price than what Blackpool are asking for now. The other positive for Adam if he is sold in the summer, is that he will have far more options to choose from as the fee will have most likely have gone down due to him having 12 months left on his contract.

Most importantly, Adam should respect his position at Blackpool. He is the leader, the driving force of the team.. I’m not questioning his desire when he is on the pitch for Blackpool, but him leaving in January will leave Blackpool in an awkward position. They will lose their creativity and dynamic in midfield. Charlie Adam should do what the best captains do, give 100% in every game and then consider leaving in the summer. Then he will leave Blackpool with far more respect.