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

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

This is part three of the npower Championship preview – Part one can be found here and part two can be found here.

Millwall – 2010/11 finish: 9th

There is no denying, no debate and no argument that if it wasn’t for Steve Morison, Millwall wouldn’t have had the season they enjoyed. A goal total of 17 in all competitions ensured that their otherwise League 1 standard team (barring a few individuals, notably James Henry) didn’t have to work especially hard to finish like they did. If Morison didn’t get stupidly suspended, they arguably would have finished in the play offs. Morison has now joined Norwich, and even if Neil Mellor does sign for The Lions, his influence hasn’t been replaced. As a result, we will all see just how weak Millwall are, but it isn’t weak enough to get relegated...just. Position – 21st

Nottingham Forest – 2010/11 finish: 6th

After winning last season’s race for 6th place, Forest’s alarmingly unlucky subsequent defeat at the hands of eventual winners Swansea prompted a summer of change at The City Ground. Popular manager Billy Davies was sacked, with Steve McClaren being handed the reigns at the sleeping giants. But things haven’t started well, with Robbie Earnshaw and Julian Bennett both leaving the club on frees. However, Forest have brought in much needed experience in the middle with George Boateng and Jonathan Greening, whilst there was also a comeback for Forest hero Andy Reid, who signed a 2 year deal. Forest still look a little light on numbers, but they have a lot of quality and under McClaren they just might achieve what Davies didn’t – promotion. Position – 5th

Peterborough United – 2010/11 finish: 4th (promoted via League 1 play offs)

Peterborough fans should cherish every single second of that game against Huddersfield. It was that underserved win that got them promoted. There is absolutely no doubt they’re going back the way they came. Selling star striker Craig Mackail-Smith to Brighton will be the first of many bullets that end up in the feet of The Posh, but it will be the sale of George Boyd which will really kill them off. As things stand, an offer from an unnamed club (for now) has been received, but hasn’t been either accepted or rejected. As Boyd pulled all the strings in an otherwise League One standard team, losing him would be a disaster. Darren Ferguson would like to avoid tarnishing his Championship reputation further, but it’ll take a lot of favours from Daddy Ferguson to avoid that. Position – 24th

Portsmouth – 2010/11 finish: 16th

Most Pompey fans will be thanking their lucky stars that they still have a club to support after last season’s near extinction, but times are changing on the South Coast. Despite losing star striker Dave Nugent to Leicester, they have already found a replacement in Luke Varney, and replaced Michael Brown with David Norris. Having re-signed ex academy product Jason Pearce from Bournemouth, getting former loanee Greg Halford back permanently from Wolves, and with ex Chelsea defender Tal Ben Haim willing to play again - Portsmouth won’t be shipping many goals, wherever they play. If Liam Lawrence can keep providing pin point service from the wings, this could be a strong season for the Blues. Position – 8th

Reading – 2010/11 finish: 5th

As with Nottingham Forest, Reading became unstuck and were just as unbelievably unlucky as the Reds were against Swansea. Losing 4-2 in the final was a hammer blow to the Royals, and it’s interesting to see where they go from it. Having already lost their best centre back Matt Mills to Leicester, speculation over the future of key striker Shane Long has been rising and rising – he was also the subject of a failed £5.5 million bid (potentially rising to 8) from West Ham. With Liverpool amongst over Premier League teams allegedly keeping tabs on him, it seems inevitable he will leave. This will be a distracting season for Reading, but a solid one all the same. Position – 9th

Southampton – 2010/11 finish: 2nd (promoted from League One)

Normally when a team comes up, they think of players they can get to ensure survival. They will then look to build on their success of staying up the following year, and possibly mount a charge the year after. Not Southampton. The first thing the Saints did when they got promoted was put bids in for Nicky Maynard and Jack Cork, securing the latter. These are hardly ‘survival’ targets. On top of an already impressive squad, Nigel Adkins has added to it significantly. Even though it is still a relatively young team in places (Lallana, Cork and Chamberlain) this group of players has it in them to cause damage in this league, and that’s what they will do. Position – 6th

Watford – 2010/11 finish: 14th

Much like Millwall being dependent on Steve Morison, Watford were highly dependent on the league’s top scorer Danny Graham. Also like Morision, Graham has departed the Hornets for pastures new. Unlike Millwall however, Watford have a team in place already which are good enough to stay up in this division. The acquisition of Scottish international and ex Burnley target man Chris Iwelumo will definitely aid the development of hot prospect Marvin Sordell, as well as adding a different dimension to the Hornets’ game. However, he won’t be anywhere near as prolific as Danny Graham and Watford will struggle...but they will have enough to keep their heads above water, for now at least. Position – 20th

West Ham United – 2010/11 finish: 20th (relegated from Premier League)

And so the best is saved till last. Much like Newcastle did in 2009, West Ham will definitely go back up at the first attempt. Magnificent signings such as Joey O’Brien, Matty Taylor and of course, Kevin Nolan, will ensure promotion is secured. Under the experienced manager Sam Allardyce, there doesn’t really seem to be any potential weakness in the team. Even if they do lose players like Cole and Parker, there is depth and quality to cover for it. Jordan Spence and James Tompkins will get their chance to shine, and although it is inevitable West Ham will lose games and drop points over the course of the season, it is even more inevitable they will win the league. Position – 1st

Here is my Championship league table prediction;

League table prediction

West Ham United

------------------

Leicester City

Cardiff City

Ipswich Town

Nottingham Forest

Southampton

------------------

Birmingham City

Portsmouth

Reading

Hull City

Middlesbrough

Blackpool

Leeds United

Bristol City

Burnley

Crystal Palace

Doncaster Rovers

Brighton & Hove Albion

Derby County

Watford

Millwall

------------------

Coventry City

Barnsley

Peterborough United

And that brings the end of the preview! Although the final table will not be exactly as predicted, it is a rough and fair assessment of what is to come this season. Who knows, Peterborough may end up with Tom Cleverly and Federico Macheda on loan from Manchester United and storm the league, whilst Leicester’s new signings don’t gel and they have a car crash season, resulting in the end of Sven’s tenure. Or go broke. Either way, it is sure to be yet another memorable, exciting and nail biting season for all involved in the npower Championship, and it’s not long now before all 24 are back into the groove of playing competitive football.

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.

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Christian Brown’s nPower Championship Review 2011/2012 – Part One

Christian Brown’s nPower Championship Review 2011/2012 – Part Two

The Championship. Is it more competitive than ever before?

The Championship. Is it more competitive than ever before?

“The Championship is the best league in the world.” A bold statement, you might think. The Championship hardly attracts the world’s best players and it doesn’t boast the world’s best teams. So whoever was to issue the statement above might be seen as a bit mad.

But what the Championship is though, it is by far the most competitive league in the world. The league has 24 teams as its capacity, realistically about 22 of those can go up. That’s not an exaggeration either. With the exceptions of Barnsley and Peterborough, there is no reason as to why the remaining 22 can’t mount a promotion charge.

Admittedly, for at least 8 of those 22, there are a lot of ‘ifs’ involved. If Watford and Millwall can replace free scoring strikers Danny Graham and Steve Morison they could be in the play offs. If Derby can secure a proven holding midfielder and acquire a target man, they could also be in the play offs. If Coventry can get a striker or get consistency out of Freddy Eastwood, they could be in the play offs too. There are so many ‘if’ variables in the Championship that I could highlight.

Then again, all football is immersed by ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’. Even if Coventry, Millwall and Watford do what’s needed, they could still get relegated; such is the competitive edge of this league. The general consensus regarding the teams who have just been promoted (Brighton (League One Champions, Southampton (League One runners off) and Peterborough (playoff winners)) is that the first two teams will survive comfortably, more so Southampton.

Incidentally, Brighton have somehow pipped West Ham and Leicester City to Peterborough’s top goal scorer last season, Craig Mackail-Smith. He is the perfect replacement for the recently departed Glenn Murray.

Even the teams coming up will be challenging for promotion!

However, there are the more notable teams which are expected to do well. Despite a currently possessing squad which contains just fourteen players, Nottingham Forest under the guidance of ex England manager Steve McClaren are expected to finish in the top 6. They have re-signed former fan favourite Andy Reid and this is a statement of their intentions, and after finishing so close in the last two years, they could make it 3^rd time lucky.

While Cardiff under new management in Malky Mackay, they have done well so far to replace the players who have recently departed, and with more signings on the horizon, they will be favourites to challenge in the play offs yet again.

There is also the small matter of the teams that have just been relegated from the Premier League. Blackpool seem certain to lose their talismatic midfielder Charlie Adam. There is also the possibility that the money gained from Adam (£9 million price tag) could go straight into the Blackpool budget.

The Carling Cup holders Birmingham will no doubt make a charge for the top 2 under Chris Hughton. This is regardless even if they have lost key players and will continue to do so. Signing Chris Burke and Marlon King means goals, and with a sturdy defence, they will be amongst the top 6.

The favourites however, are West Ham and Leicester. Leicester have strengthened enormously, Kasper Schmeichel, Sean St Ledger and Neil Danns have all joined the Foxes and under the supervision from another ex England manager Sven Goran Erikson. Leicester seem certain to go up. Although West Ham look certain to lose Scott Parker, they have signed Kevin Nolan and haven’t lost many other players. Those that have left have been expendable, and someone will come in to take their chance. This relegation could be a blessing in disguise for West Ham, as many expect them to storm the league like Newcastle did a few years ago.

Having said all this, you would be foolish to predict anything that happens in the Championship. So often people are proved wrong. West Ham may well be the runaway favourites, but with the league being as competitive as ever, whether they do get automatically promoted is not a nailed on certainty. However, if West Ham don’t finish in the automatic slots and fall into the lottery of the play offs, the West Ham fans know too well the feelings of joy and despair that the £90 million game in football can bring.

Only 3 teams can go up, and the way things are shaping up for this year, this is the league to watch.

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.

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Premier League free transfers XI

The Premier League Free Transfer’s XI

The transfer window’s official opening edges closer. There are a number of great free transfers who have been told, ‘thanks but no thanks’ by their former employers. However, it seems that this year that there are many good players being released from Premier League clubs. Perhaps this emphasises the ever growing quality within the Premier League. But, here at The Football Front, we have made a dream team squad consisting only of released Premier League players!

GOALKEEPER – Marcus Hahnemann (Released from Wolves) – The old American goalkeeper has been pretty decent for Wolves in the past two seasons. He has come into the side and has made some telling contributions. He is a goalkeeper who knows how to turn up for the big matches and can often have games where he is just so difficult to beat. At 39, he is even by a goalkeepers standard a pretty old folk. But, his experience and ability makes him the best released goalkeeper by far.

RIGHT BACK – John Paintsil (Released from Fulham) – The energetic full back is a good player. Defensively he is solid and you always expect the Ghanaian to support the attacks from the right. Perhaps his final ball and his crossing isn’t incredible. Furthermore, Paintsil’s last season was marred with an incredible three own goals. It’s something which must make the Fulham fans cringe with anguish. But his energy and good positional play makes him a very good free transfer.

Here is his funniest own goal.

CENTRE BACK – Jonathan Woodgate (Released from Tottenham) – Again, another quality free transfer. But the issue with Woodgate is that he is incredibly injury prone. But when this guy is fit, he is a very competent centre back. The club that eventually takes on Jonathan Woodgate would be taking a massive risk. Injury has blighted his career. But, if he does regain fitness, he will walk into most Premier League teams.

CENTRE BACK – Mathew Upson (Released from West Ham) – Upson had a poor season last year. One could argue he didn't recover from his woeful performances for England in the South Africa World Cup. But, when this guy is on form, he can keep the best strikers out. Furthermore, Upson possess leadership qualities and is a very good organiser. He can help keep his defence stay strong and focused. At 32, he maybe losing he legs. But, he can still do a decent job with some Premier League sides. All he needs is a good kick up the backside.

LEFT BACK – Jonathan Spector – (Released from West Ham) – Spector had a decent season last year. His versatility makes him a good free transfer. He has proved he is decent in the full back postions, but he can also do a job in a midfield role too. The American can pass the ball very well and has a great deal of creativity. This helped him shine in the centre of midfield. Spector’s versatility along with his ability it makes him a player which certain Premier League clubs will be seriously considering.

DEFENSIVE MIDFIELD - Abdoulaye Faye (Released from Stoke, now at West Ham) – Although he is 33, this guy is still tough as nails. His no nonsense and physical approach makes him a tough opponent. Faye is a hard tackler who is dominant in the air. His physical presence makes him a very practical player, as he can stop his man or alternatively break up the play.

CENTRAL MIDFIELD - Tamir Cohen (Released from Bolton) – Cohen found it hard to get into Bolton side last season. However, his ability is still there for everyone to see. Cohen is a midfielder who can pass the ball reasonably well and he has the creativity to execute his passes too. Not only this, Cohen has proved he can be a clinical finisher too. It’s clear the Israeli is a dynamic player who can find spaces if given the time. There will probably be a queue for this guy..but not in the Premier League.

CENTRAL MIDFIELD – Zoltan Gera (Released from Fulham) – This guy is a seriously good player. He is a highly technical player who can operate in small places. Furthermore, he can be relied upon to exploit gaps in order to make something happen. Although his time at Fulham has been mainly coming off the bench to make an impact, this guy has proved time and time again that he is the man who can score crucial goals. His instinctive play makes him a big threat.

RIGHT MIDFIELD – Seb Larsson (Released from Birmingham, now at Sunderland) – Another high quality free transfer. This guy has a great cross, a great pass and a great footballing mind. His time at Arsenal as a youth player really comes out in his style of play. He is an extremely technical and versatile player who can deliver superbly from set pieces. Furthermore, his free kicks aren’t bad either.

LEFT MIDFIELD - Diomansy Kamara (Released from Fulham) – Although Kamara seems to have a problem with consistency and staying fit. However, when he is fit and firing, he is a pretty effective player. His finishing can be clinical and he's known for scoring important goals. A few clubs will be seriously considering whether Kamara is worth the risk, but if he can have stay injury free for a year, he could be a good asset.

CENTRE FORWARD – John Carew (Released from Aston Villa) – Big John Carew is a handful of a player. His psychical ability makes him a nightmare for defenders. Along with this, his aerial dominance makes him a strong threat in the air. Although Carew is renowned for his aerial dominance and his strength. His finishing must not be forgotten too. You can expect Carew to finish off a few chances with his feet.

At 31, Carew still has a little left in his locker. But in the past, his stupidity has often lost him his place or even cost him his job at certain clubs. However, his ability could make him a risk worth taking.

Here is a visual of our free transfers XI.

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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.

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FA Cup Quarter Final Predictions

Our Quarter final predictions for the FA Cup. Massive weekend for all these teams. Two games away from the final itself! Predictions this week are coming from Matty Springett. A hero.

Fixture	Ibby Akkas Prediction		Matty Springett Prediction		Actual Result
Birmingham v Bolton	2-2		3-2		2-3
Manchester United v Arsenal	3-0		1-0		2-0
Stoke v West Ham	2-1		1-2		2-1
Man City v Reading	4-0		4-1		1-0
Total correct scores	Correct Results - 3	Perfect Results - 1	Correct Results - 2	Perfect Results - 0

The Results

Ibby Akkas
Correct results - 3 = 3 points
Perfect results - 1 = 3 points
Total - 6 Points

Matty Springett
Correct Results - 2 = 2 points
Perfect results - 0 = 0 points
Total - 2 points

Why the League Cup still holds importance in the English game

Sunday the 27^th of February. A day that Birmingham City fans will never forget. Arguably it was the proudest day of the club’s history. It was the day that Birmingham City defied all the odds by winning the their first major trophy since 1963, by beating Arsenal. The League Cup now belongs to Birmingham City.

But, some people believe the magic and beauty which made the English domestic cups so popular has gone. I see where there coming from. As some teams field weakened sides in the Cup’s in order to focus on their league campaigns. There is no denying this fact. But that doesn’t mean teams are not interested or bothered in winning the FA Cup or even the League Cup. Just ask the Birmingham City fans. There is still a little bit of magic left in our domestic cups.

The 2011 League Cup final proved two things to me. Firstly, it showed how much winning the competition meant to Birmingham city. Critics of the competition argue the League Cup doesn’t hold any significance in the modern game anymore. But they are clearly were wrong. Birmingham’s triumph proved this, the scenes at the end of the game were euphoric. The celebrations and beaming smiles of the Birmingham fans, players and staff was quite inspiring. Most footballing fans felt a collective joy and happiness for Birmingham. Now, are you telling me League Cup doesn’t hold any significance anymore? If that critique is still believed it’s a hell of a damning view on Birmingham’s fantastic achievements.

Something else I picked up from the 2011 League Cup final was how much the defeat meant to the Arsenal players. Of course, the critics argue the League Cup is a competition that the big clubs don’t even care about. But the reactions of the Arsenal players at the end of the game tell a totally different story. The Arsenal players were shocked, hurt and even tearful after the game. The Gunners were craving to end their trophy drought. And the League Cup final gave them a fantastic opportunity to reopen their trophy cabinet. The reactions of the Arsenal players suggest one thing. They seriously cared about the League Cup. They wouldn’t have responded in such an emotive way if they didn’t have any aspirations to win the trophy.

The magic hasn’t just suddenly appeared in the final of the 2011 League Cup. It’s been apparent throughout the previous rounds. Take the third round tie between the League Two side Northampton and Liverpool at Anfield. Northampton gave it their all and matched Liverpool right to the wire. The league two side ended up embarrassing the Premier League side by winning on penalties. The fact the might of Liverpool were beaten demonstrates the beauty of our cup competitions. This is simply because Liverpool had no right to lose that game. The odds were heavily stacked against Northampton. The most beautiful aspect for Northampton was winning at Anfield. I don’t think the Northampton fans and players will ever forget that night at Anfield. But the critics argue Liverpool fielded a ‘weakened side.’ They did, no one can reject that claim. But Liverpool fielded 5 internationals. In fact three even played in the last World Cup. So there was enough quality out there to beat a struggling League Two side. And if you ask any Liverpool fan or players, they would seriously be content with a good League Cup run. Furthermore, history will tell you, Liverpool have a brilliant relationship with the League Cup. As they are the record holders with 7 League Cups to their name. So arguing the point the club doesn’t care about the League Cup is invalid.

There is the argument that a problem with the League Cup is that all the big teams are continuously wining it. It’s a valid point one has to say. But it has been like that for decades. During the 80’s, Liverpool won the League Cup four times in a row (81 -84.) Doesn’t this prove that even in the 80’s when the League Cup was taken with great seriousness, it was still being continuously won by the best teams? So the point of the League Cup being dominated by the bigger sides doesn’t mean that the cup has lost its magic or appeal. The fact it’s happened for decades suggests it’s the mere nature of the cup to be won by the elite English teams. Take Manchester United. Before being knocked out in this season’s League Cup, they won the cup twice in a row. See the similarities between the 80’s and today’s League Cup?

There is the common assertion that the teams participating in the European competitions couldn’t careless about the League Cup. This is completely wrong. Obviously, they would put their European success over the League Cup. But the English sides playing in Europe do care about the League Cup. As I’ve mentioned before, Manchester United were demolished by relegation candidates West Ham United in the fourth round this season. Again, people will say ‘United played a second team.’ But I’m sure the United fans, players and staff were deeply embarrassed to be smashed by four goals. Especially as Manchester United are a massive club, who are aspiring to win a record 19^th Premier League title. Some may feel Man United ‘have no real interest’ in the League Cup, but that would be a huge dis-service to the values of the club and the fans. The club is about winning. Every trophy is a winnable trophy and is a trophy which is cherished.

Birmingham’s League Cup triumph symbolises the importance of the League Cup in the English game. Both teams showed a passion and desire to earn their club a valuable piece of silverware. The League Cup is constantly ambushed with criticisms. But the competition still provides some of the best footballing stories and folklore.

There is something that all football fans love. The underdog triumphing. And time after time, the League Cup offers this spectacle to the football world.

Football Tweets of the Week

This feature is about the brilliant football related Tweets of the past week. Some are funny, and some are simply good points. I was looking to add this feature on Thursday, but didn't get the chance. So here it goes..

1. 'I think Sam Allardyce is the right man to lead Egypt from this historical moment. Look at what he did with Bolton.He deserves a chance.' - James Corden - Corden reveals his ideal candidate for the Egyptian presidency after the overthrowing of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak
   
2. 'Gattuso seems to have misunderstood Dwight Yorke’s anecdote about how great it was giving head to Jordan.' - MirrorFootball - Mirror Football reveal the motives behind Gattuso's actions.
   
3. 'For all the Chelsea fans who don't remember when they were shit ! Good news the old days are just around the corner !!' - Paul Turner - Gives an honest verdict about Chelsea's future after their defeat to Everton in the F.A Cup
   
4. 'West Ham ahead but poorer side. Will be interesting to see how Scott Parker changes things around at half-time.' Dan Silver - Cheeky little comment by Dan Silver, during half time between West Ham and Burnley. In West Ham's previous game against West Brom, Scott Parker gave an influential speech at half time, which inspired their 3-3 come back.
   
5. 'What do Arsenal, Spurs and Paul McCartney have in common.. They all get excited over one leg!' Gareth McKenna - Lovely little joke after the midweek victories for both London club's Arsenal and Tottenham!
   
6. 'We used to have a player called Zhirkov. Not that I would like him to come on but it would be nice to know if he was still alive.' Yasser - Tweeted during the Fulham and Chelsea match. But a good point really. What does he even do these days? Is he alive and well!?
7. 'Hold up...my mum just said one time when I was around 5yrs old she had to beat me up...what kinda parenting is that?! I might dead arm her!' - rioferdy5- Rio Ferdinand - The Man United and England captain discovers he was briefly victim the victim of child abuse. He reacts to the revelation, by getting revenge on his mum.
   
8. '@LucasLeiva87 You were always my favourite Lucas, you'd be captain next season under me.'- royhodgson_lma The Hodge (Parody of Roy Hodgson) - I'm sure the Liverpool fans would have viewed Roy Hodgson as an absolute legend if he ever did that..
9. Arshavin scores the winner, pull his shirt over his head. What's on his t-shirt? A pic of himself, celebrating a goal #genius' Dara O' Briain - Comedian Dara O' Briain on Andrey Arsharvin's antics after scoring the winner against Barcelona.
   
10. The Hodge is bored. This #LFC team isn't a patch on the team I had, we'd be battering this crap [Sparta Prague], especially away from home.' - royhodgson_lma The Hodge (Parody of Roy Hodgson) - The parody Hodgson on the dour Sparta v Liverpool game. The Real Hodgson must of watched this game and thought the exact same thing to be fair!

Why this season will distinct if Avram Grant is a good manager or a bad manager

Avram Grant, good manager or a bad manager? It seems people are still unsure of what they make of Grant. His days at Chelsea were deemed to some (and most importantly Roman Abramovich) as a failure. Even though he took Chelsea to their first European Cup final in 2008. But of course, they lost on penalties. But they were virtually one kick away from glory. Maybe if John Terry scored that penalty Grant would be seen as a fantastic manager? Who knows. Grant should also be praised for keeping the squad together after they were left shocked and disillusioned by the departure of Jose Mourinho. He also lead the team to a League Cup final in his short tenure at Chelsea. But again they were defeated on penalties. Some call his reign at Chelsea as unlucky, while others call it a simple failure.

Avram Grant’s reign at Portsmouth last season, dramatically contrasted to the situation when he was at Chelsea in 2008. As Portsmouth was a debt ridden club, who were on the brink of extinction, let alone the fear of relegation. Some will argue, Portsmouth’s off the field matters meant the club were certain to be relegated. Due to their 10 point deduction because the club went into administration. So Grant was a manager in a losing battle, one which he had little control over. Yet some disagree, if Portsmouth hadn’t had 10 points deducted they would have still finished bottom. This is very true. But it has to be considered that this Portsmouth team at times weren’t even paid by the club. This must of had a serious effect on the player’s performances and desire. Seeing as footballers nowadays are in the luxury culture of lucrative contracts and consistent pay. Let’s also put this into perspective, if you weren’t getting paid for your job, your commitment and drive towards the job would decline considerably. It’s the same for footballers too.

Furthermore, in the summer of 2009 and the January 2010 transfer windows, Portsmouth sold their prized assets. The likes of Peter Crouch, Glen Johnson and Niko Kranjcar were all sold. The number of dramatic changes to the first team would have affected the confidence and ambition of the squad. As Portsmouth were now a selling club.

Yet, Avram Grant did achieve a fantastic feat whilst at Portsmouth. Amongst all the adversity off the field. Avram Grant managed to take his team all the way to the FA Cup final. They beat Harry Redknapp’s Tottenham side in the semi-final. A day most Portsmouth fans will never forget.

The final was a closely matched affair against Chelsea. Kevin Prince- Boateng missed a penalty which would have given Portsmouth the lead. And a minute later, Dider Drogba scored from a free kick to give Chelsea the lead. Again, the fate of penalties for Grant was the difference.

So Avram Grant left Portsmouth as a heroic figure, making the club dream of cup glory even if the long term future looked bleak. But, most were still unsure of whether Grant was a great manager or a fortunate manager.

Most saw the appointment of Grant to West Ham as a good move for both sides. Yet, things have been tough for Grant and the Hammers. West Ham started the season off poorly. In fact it was West Ham’s worst ever start in the Premier League. Hardly inspiring stuff. And Grant’s future has been continually called into question. But the team’s form gradually improved. They picked up useful wins such as; three points away at Fulham and a vital win at home against fellow relegation candidates Wolves.

But again, like at Portsmouth off the field matters have continuously a casted shadow over Grant. By January the 15^th it seemed as if Martin O’Neil was set to take the reigns at West Ham. The story was rumoured to be true, expect O’Neil rejected the offer. The behaviour by the West Ham owners was disgraceful. Simple as. They showed no respect towards their manager.

Even after the mess regarding Martin O’Neil. No one can deny the board haven’t backed Grant in the transfer window. In January, Grant signed, 5 players. Most of them are very decent acquisitions too. The signings of Wayne Bridge (on loan), Robbie Keane (Loan), Demba Ba and Gary O’Neil are all good deals.

Furthermore, some will argue, Grant inherited a poor squad when he joined the club. I agree, some of the players at West Ham are very poor. And aren’t Premier League standard. But there are some quality players the too. The likes of Scott Parker, Charlton Cole, Mathew Upson, Robert Green and Victor Obinna are all good players. The January signings will only add more quality to the side. Especially the signing of Robbie Keane. An experienced, yet potent Premier League striker.

One issue is will the players develop an understanding between themselves. This is the risk Grant has taken by signing so many players in January. It’s up to him to try and help his players develop an understanding of his methods of play. Arguably the lack of understanding has recently cost them in their last few matches. The defeat against Birmingham at Upton Park springs to mind. And the 3 all draw against West Brom. The West Ham’s defence was utterly woeful. But it’s up to Grant to bring the players closer as a unit and as a family in order to develop an understanding on the pitch.

When Grant was poorly handled by Karen Brady and the two West Ham owners over the O’Neil saga, I leapt to the defence of Grant (here’s the piece.) But Grant has been backed by the owners in January. Of course they haven’t thrown millions at him. But they have allowed him to capture good footballers.

Most managers after their dismissal or when their really under scrutiny argue, they ‘weren’t given enough of a financial backing by the owners.’ The owners have sufficiently backed Grant. It’s now up to Avram Grant to prove he is a decent manager and save West Ham from relegation. Yes his treatment at the club hasn’t been great. But he has been given the resources to do a good job.

By the end of the season, we will see the real credentials of the Israeli.

Team of the Weekend & Performances of the Weekend

Team of the Weekend

Formation: 4-4-2

Some of you maybe surprised that a certain Wayne Rooney isn't leading the line after his fantastic goal against Manchester City. Its a decent shout. But for me Wayne Rooney went missing for large parts of the Manchester derby. While Robin Van Persie and Demba Ba were continuous threats against their respected oppositions. Both strikers had a number of attempts on goals and both scored a brace. The inclusion of Theo Walcott in this team may come as a bit of a surprise for some. Of course, he missed a sitter against Wolves. But he was constantly worrying Wolves. With his sheer pace and fantastic dribbling skills. Walcott played a crucial role in Arsenal's fantastic second goal. His typically unselfish final ball lead to the second Arsenal goal.

Ryan Giggs in central midfield? I here you questioning me. I thought Ryan Giggs was a calming influence for Man United. He simply had to be in the team of the week. He really led by example. Ryan Giggs even at the ripe age of 37, showed he can be a complete handful. His dribbling skills were continuously worrying the Man City defence. His experience stood out, as his composed passes lead to Man United progressing forward. Giggs' played a vital role in the opening goal. As his lovely first time ball for Nani, allowed the Portuguese star to clinically finish.

Chris Smalling had a good game against Man City too. The fact Tevez hardly had a sniff of the ball suggests the fine job done by Smalling and Vidic. Smalling showed he has the ability and the nerve to preform in the big games. Fair play to the lad.

Game of the weekend - West Brom 3 v 3 West Ham - What is with the Premier League these days! Everybody seems to be coming back from the dead! This game was most definitely a game of two halves. The Hammers started the game poorly. Within 8 minutes they were two down. The first West Brom goal was a brilliant long range shot from Graham Dorrans. The other two West Brom goals were simply woeful defending from the Hammers. Especially the third goal. West Ham were void of any character or inspiration in the first half. However, West Ham in the second half played far more attacking and played with more hunger and desire. Demba Ba was on a livewire for West Ham and made a telling difference scoring two vital goals. The introduction of Frederic Piquionne made a big difference for the Hammers. At times West Brom simply couldn't cope with him. He assisted West Ham's second goal. West Ham will be relieved they managed to gain one point from this game, after witnessing such a shocking first half. But the Baggies will be kicking themselves for throwing away a 3 goal lead against a fellow relegation candidate.



szólj hozzá: We3-3We

Shock result of the week - There weren't that many shocking results this week. But I'm sure Harry Redknapp will be pleased with his team's away win at Sunderland. Redknapp rotated his side. Leaving out the likes of Crouch, Lennon, Van der Vaart. Sunderland took the lead thanks to a well taken goal by Gyan. But the resilience of Spurs shone through. As they managed to turn the game around and grab a vital away win, against a very good Sunderland side. What will please Spurs is that they left out some important players out and still had enough quality to see off Sunderland. The win also keeps Spurs in serious contention for the Champions League spots.

Player of the week - Nani (Manchester United) - Nani is having a fantastic season. He has assisted 13 Premier League goals and has scored 10 goals in all competitions this season. A fantastic record. Nani has become a vital part of the United team. Since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani has started to show how much of a brilliant player he is. This weekend was no different. In fact Nani was the difference between the two sides. Nani's brilliant touch, burst of pace and finish lead to United's opening goal. Nani also distributed a brilliant cross for Wayne Rooney's sensational finish. A goal and a assist in the Manchester derby, not a bad day's work from Nani.

Flop of the weekend - Carlos Tevez (Manchester City) - Carlos Tevez has been in impressive form this season. Scoring 18 Premier League goals already. His recent form has been sensational. He has scored 7 goals in his last 6 matches. Coming into the Manchester Derby, Tevez showed a continuation of that form. With a hatrick against Wolves. But for arguably Manchester City's biggest game of the season, he didn't turn up. There is a lot of expectation and hype surrounding Tevez ahead of the Manchester Derbies. As he switched allegiances from United to the blue of City. But he failed to silence the United supporters who consistently mocked him throughout the game. 'Whats the score Tevez?' was rung around Old Trafford after the United goals. Poor performance by Tevez. He wasn't captain fantastic this weekend.

Goal of the Weekend - Wayne Rooney (Manchester United) - Well, well, well. This guy has had a tough time off the pitch and on it this season. Rooney has been lacking in his finishing instincts and has found it difficult to get amongst the goals this season. At times he has looked incredibly average and nothing near to his world class status. But on Saturday, boy did he show his quality. Rooney scored an incredible overhead kick, which will go down in Manchester United folklore. Whatever you views on Wayne Rooney, you cannot question the brilliance of this goal. This is something special.



szólj hozzá: Mu2-1MaC

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