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

I'd just like to make clear, the links or videos are not owned by me, and are not in affiliation with The Football Front, they were found via google.

Watch Wayne Rooney's brilliant winner against Man City

A simply brilliant way to a win a game. Especially a derby. Rooney has shown his class again.



I'd just like to make clear, the links or videos are not owned by me, and are not in affiliation with The Football Front, they were found via google.
szólj hozzá: Mu2-1MaC

Premier League Predictions 11/02

Here are my predictions for this weekend’s Premier League football. The opposing predictions come from a good friend of mine Mr Matty Springett. An amazing media effects editor. Feel free to comment, question and critique.

Fixture	My Prediction (Ibby Akkas)		Matty Springett Prediction		Actual Result
Man United v Man City	0-1		0-0		2-1
Arsenal v Wolves	2-0		4-0		2-0
Liverpool v Wigan	1-0		2-1		1-1
Birmingham v Stoke	0-0		2-2		1-0
Blackburn v Newcastle	1-2		1-2		0-0
Blackpool v Aston Villa	1-3		2-3		1-1
West Brom v West Ham	2-2		0-1		3-3
Sunderland v Tottenham	1-1		2-2		1-2
Bolton v Everton	2-0		1-2		2-0
Fulham v Chelsea	1-1		1-1		0-0
Total correct scores	Total Correct Results - 4	Total perfect scores - 2	Total Correct Results - 2	Total perfect scores - 0

Why Arsenal’s complacency and lack of professionalism has seriously hindered their chances this season

Arsenal, find themselves in second place, 5 points behind the leaders Manchester United. This story could have been so much different had Arsenal shown a stronger mentality and a little professionalism.

Most Arsenal players, fans and staff will viewthis season as a metaphorical head banging campaign. They have dropped points in places and circumstances which are almost unforgivable.

Arsenal’s home form has seriously hindered their title credentials. The Gunners away form has been very decent. In fact, they have the best away record in the Premier League. So technically they have cracked the hardest part. But their home form has been the critical issue.

Arsenal’s first home defeat of the season came against West Brom. A rather shocking result, to be honest. Some will argue this result is typical of the Premier League’s climate of inconsistency, as teams are beating each other more often than before. But you have to remember, this is West Brom. The Premier League’s yo-yo team. They managed to score two goals in two minutes. They rattled Arsenal. The Arsenal players have seriously got to look at themselves. Especially at home they should show a far more resilient character. After going a goal down, they should assert themselves and show their mental strength by instantly getting onto the front foot. Not let in another goal. It just highlights their weak mentality as a team.

The most embarassing home defeat for Arsenal this season is clearly the game against Spurs. This game demonstrates the weak attitude of the Arsenal players. Arsenal were a far better team than Spurs in the first half. And deservedly got themselves two goals ahead. But come the second half, Arsenal showed their lack of professionalism and complacent attitude. And they let their two goal lead slip and lost the game to their arch rivals. The Arsenal players are simply to blame here. Their complacent attitude has resulted in a comfortable two goal lead at home to be taken away from them. The most humiliating aspect for the Arsenal faithful is that this result was at home and to their local rivals. It’s an unforgivable mentality shown by the Arsenal players.

It must be so frustrating for the Arsenal fans to know that they have lost more games at home (3) than they have on the road (2). This really could have been their year had the Arsenal

Arsenal have again shot themselves in the foot. But this time in Europe. They initially started off cruising the opening group stage matches. Smashing Braga for 6 at the Emirates and then beating Partizan Belgrade away from home. But come the remaining three games of the group stages, Arsenal showed their brittle nature. They lost to Shakhtar Donetsk away from home. This result could have been far more different, had Arsenal had the character to hold onto their lead. But yet again, the story of the season for them, they simply didn’t have in it them to hold the lead. But losing to Shakter isnt a shocking result. After all, they are a very good side with some quality players. However, the defeat against Braga, in Portugal was fatal. As it put Shakhter in pole position. Meaning if Arsenal were to finish the group in second they would have to play one of the top European teams in the last 16. Low and behold, they now face the might of Barcelona, with the second leg at the Nou Camp. The brilliant recent form of Barcelona will seriously worry Arsenal. As Barcelona are hammering everyone in their way. It will test the character of the team. But the mediocre mentality of the Arsenal players, will worry the fans. As Barcelona could potentially embarrass Arsenal, like they did last year.

Back to the Premier League, Arsenal have shown some consistency recently. But their weak mentality has infiltrated through, yet again. Arsenal travelled up north to play Newcastle. The Gunners started off the game perfectly, scoring three goals in the opening 10 minutes. That’s most defiantly Premier League title contenders form, simple as. Especially away from home. They finished the half being four up. Yet Arsenal, still let the three points run away from them. Arsenal again highlighted the complacency in the team. Abou Diaby got himself sent off for horrendous behaviour. Yes it wasn’t the best challenge from Joey Barton, but the reaction from Diaby was a definite red card. There was no need to react so abruptly. It’s just a lack of professionalism.

Arsenal completely lost their bearings after that. Thus allowing Newcastle to come back from four down. It’s humiliating for the Arsenal fans to see their players showing a lack of professionalism to see the job through. The Newcastle come back again highlights the complacent attitude of squad. As it’s the second time they have let a comfortable lead get away from them. The Arsenal players lack resilience when the going gets tough.

Arsenal have been caught being first class mugs time and time again this season. Yet one thing stands out to me. They seriously lack leadership on the pitch. Had the captain Cesc Fabregas shown some leadership skills maybe Arsenal could have kept it together, rather than crumbling. Cesc Fabgregas shouldn’t be captain. He is the captain merely because Arsenal want to prolong his stay at the club. But Fabregas isnt the only player. The other senior members should take some responsibility in making sure everyone on the pitch sticks together. The players simply lack the grit to be really successful.

Arsenal haven’t won a trophy since 2005. Yes, they may well beat Birmingham in the League cup final later this month. But Arsenal could have been in pole position of this season’s title race. They have seriously let themselves down. They clearly have the ability and strategy to be successful. But collectively as a team they lack the drive and professionalism to see games out.

It’s a shame, this really could have been their break through year.

Is there a Right or Wrong way to play Football?

Football is changing. Our perceptions on football are changing. We are becoming more and more conscious of how our team plays. Some will argue that were becoming even more critical of how our teams play. The press, opposing players and managers are continuously criticising their opponents’ strategies.

But is this fair? Are we in an age where football has to conform to what the football society deems as acceptable? Football is an art. It’s a game where different cultures and strategies go head to head, and some of the most fantastic entertainment stems from that. Obviously football has to be played within the laws of the game. But why are certain footballing strategies deemed as ‘the wrong way of playing football?’

A perfect example of this was Cesc Fabregas’ comments after Arsenal were defeated by Ipswich. ‘I don’t know if it is long ball or it is a rugby kick.’ It’s an injustice that the captain of Arsenal can criticise the opposing teams strategy. What exactly did Ipswich do wrong? They played within the rules and found away to beat Arsenal. Fair play to them. But Fabregas and Arsenal aren’t the only player and club to criticise an opposition strategy. It’s happening more and more now. It’s as if clubs and players are saying, everyone needs to play in our way, or if there not they are not playing the game properly. But surely part of the game of the game is being able to overcome the opposition’s tactics and strategies. It shows the weak mentality of some footballers and managers who think football has to be played in a certain brand.

Nowadays, it’s seems like a complete sin if you play defensive football. You are branded labels such as being ‘anti football.’ Defensive football is simply just keeping it tight at the back and as a unit. And reducing the number of chances the opposition gets. While attacking in a pragmatic manner. Is that a crime? Where in the rules of football does it say your not allowed to have men behind the ball? It’s ridiculous when people criticise this strategy. They are playing defensively because they want to increase their chance of getting something out of this game. They don’t want to hand the result to their opposition.

The phrase ‘anti-football’ has been branded quite easily over the past few years. Even Chelsea were branded that tag when they played against Barcelona in the Champions League semi final in 2009. Andres Iniesta commented, ‘We [Barcelona] tried to attack and score a goal, but when the team in front of you [Chelsea] do not want to play football, it becomes complicated.’ It’s an incredibly harsh comment towards Chelsea. They haven’t got to the Champions League semi final by ‘not playing football.’ Of course they have played football. Can’t Chelsea play defensively against the favourites, especially as Barcelona are at home? Its crazy. Suddenly playing pragmatically is a crime and is the 'wrong way' to play football. Chelsea are well within their rights to play in a strategy which they believe will assist them in getting through the ties. There is nothing wrong with that. Some players and clubs can’t take it if a team plays football which is directly built to nullify their opposition’s strategy. As Chelsea did with Barcelona’s in the first leg. Chelsea have done nothing wrong.

Closer to home Stoke are often labelled as a ‘direct and physical’ side. Which to be honest, they are. And I don’t think manager Tony Pulis nor the Stoke players will deny that either. But Stoke come under great criticism for being a physical side and direct side. Fulham Captain Danny Murphy heavily condemned Stoke’s strategy, ‘you get managers who set their teams out to stop the other teams playing which is happening more and more like Stoke.’ The most provoking aspect is that Stoke are playing by the book. It’s a common assertion that because they are a physical side it means Stoke fouls a lot. It doesn’t mean that at all. It simply means they are physically stronger than their oppositions. It’s as if the modern football forgets that football is a contact sport. Stoke are well in their right to assert their physical attributes as long as it’s within the law. It doesn’t mean Stoke are playing football the ‘wrong way.’ It simply means they are playing to their strengths.

Stoke’s throw-in specialties have also come under criticism. Just because the tactic is unorthodox it suddenly becomes the ‘wrong way to play football.’ Yet, Stoke’s tactic is faultless. They are not infringing any laws. There simply better than other teams when it comes to taking advantage of throw-ins. But this still gives them the label of being ‘Anti football.’

Nobody has the right to question Stoke’s strategy. After all it works. Stoke were promoted to the Premier League with Hull and West Brom. Hull have been relegated. Whereas, West Brom were relegated then promoted again. During that time Stoke have continuously kept in the Premier League. You can’t knock Stoke’s tactics.

One thing which I’ve recognised in the past few seasons is that whenever a team play the ball long, or clear it long, it's met with boo’s. This demonstrates how conscience the fans have become over the idea of playing the ‘long ball.’ But these boo’s send out a clear message. It suggests that playing the long ball isn’t accepted in the footballing culture anymore. This is rather sad. As it’s not anti football or the wrong way to play football. It’s simply another strategy, yes, its not the most aesthetically pleasing but if it works for the team so be it.

Nowadays, when a new manager joins a club they always seem to promise to play an ‘attacking brand of football.’ That’s all and well. But it’s easy to forget that, you need to play to your team’s strengths in order to be successful. Some teams playing lovely passing football as it’s their strength. But for other teams playing defensively and on the counter is their strength. Is that a crime? No. But the way football is portrayed nowadays its as if it’s a crime to play like that. Even though their playing to the their strengths and within the rules.

For me the beauty of football is two opposing teams with different styles battling it out. But it seems that all teams need to play in a certain way, the ‘attacking brand’ strategy. How boring would it be if every team played like Barcelona. The beauty about Barcelona’s play is that they are the only club in the world who can play like that. Football needs to encourage different styles of play, rather than criticising certain styles and branding them as ‘anti-football.’

Football is an art. Let’s not lose the beauty of the game.

Do the England players fear wearing the England Jersey?

As a footballing nation we expect a great deal from England. And so we should. We have an array of brilliant talent. But time and time again, they let the nation down. But has the attitude towards the England team changed? Are the England fans seeing them as over paid individuals? And has that infiltrated fear into the players? As we expect them to perform to with a strong commitment and play to the best of their abilty. The England fans are now unwilling to take poor excuses like, ‘the players didn’t have enough of a break.’ I hate that excuse. These players earn far more than most International teams. Its part of any job to have elements of struggle and hardship. You don’t hear a shop assistant complaining he cant do his or her’s work because he is ‘tired’ of working a 9-6. While its fair that our multi-million footballers are allowed to make such excuses? If you cant cope with the pressures and physical expectations of football, I suggest you look for another career. Be grateful that you have a job that most football fans dream and aspire to have.

The England fans are expecting far more committed performances from England. Does that make the players fear wearing the England jersey? It clearly does. But its by no ways the fans fault. They have every right to expect committed performances, after all the players are representing England.

But I really dislike it when fans boo. And the England fans have taken this habit up. Some argue that they have a right to, seeing they have spent their hard earned money to watch England. But I think it makes the England players even more fearful. I recall moment when Ashley Cole made a woeful pass, which led to the opposition scoring and he was being booed by the England faithful. Is that right? And surely that does create fear in the players? As the fans aren’t supporting the players on the pitch. Clive Tyldesley summed the moment up perfectly. Tyldesley said ‘Ashley Cole is now Chelsea’s Ashley Cole.’

Some will turn around and say, ‘they earned millions, they should be able to handle the expectations and criticisms.’ Fair point, but like in any job, if you make a mistake and then everyone you goes, ‘oh you idiot, why did you make that glaring mistake?’ It would unsettle you and have an effect on your self confidence.

But the expectations mixed with the frustrations from the England supporters are making the England players worry. And so they should. If you really love playing for your country show it. The players haven’t shown the same passion as the fans. It’s a sad story.
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England and their pace

One thing which in the last few years I’ve recognised is that England are blessed with so much pace. Take the latest squad to play against Denmark. There are so many quick footballers in this squad. There’s Ashley Cole, Glen Johnson, Kyle Walker, Steward Downing, Theo Walcott, Ashley Young, Darren Bent, Jermaine Defoe and Wayne Rooney. I’ve basically just named the whole squad. Its about time England utilised this pace. And created a strategy which took advantage of the pace England possess. There arent many international teams that can match England’s pace. England need to take advantage of their strengths.

Team of the Week & Performances of the Week

The Premier League Team of the Week

Gk – Pepe Reina (Liverpool) – The Liverpool man has now achieved 4 consecutive clean sheets in a row. He wasn’t really questioned much by Chelsea. But when Florent Malouda did question him, Reina was equal to it and made a great save to maintain Liverpool’s lead.

Runners up- Joe Hart (Manchester City), third place- Wayne Hennessey (Wolves),

RB – Kyle Walker – The exciting right back has shown how impressive he is in the last few weeks. Against Fulham he continued to show his competence going forward. Providing effective support for his side going forward. He capped of a brilliant attacking performance with a fantastic long range goal. His brilliant performances have also seen him gain his first England call up this week.

Runners up – Martin Kelly (Liverpool), Third place – Stephen Carr (Birmingham)

CB – Jamie Carragher (Liverpool) – This was Jamie Carragher’s first game for Liverpool after being out for 2 months with an injury. On his return he gave a brilliant and fully committed performance. Carragher kept the Liverpool’s back line organised and disciplined against the threat of Chelsea. Jamie Carragher’s made a crucial last ditch save to stop Fernando Torres having a debut to remember.

CB – Daniel Agger (Liverpool) – Agger had a tidy game in the Liverpool defence against Chelsea. He has helped Pepe Reina gain his 4^th consecutive clean sheet. Agger played a crucial role in reducing the threat of Drogba, Anelka and Torres. The Liverpool fans showed great appreciation towards Agger for his tough challenge on Fernando Torres.

LB – Leighton Baines (Everton) – This guy had a fantastic game against Blackpool. Throughout the whole season Baines has been something of a creative force. And this weekend was no different. Baines set up three of Everton’s goals. Taking his assist tally to 9 for the season. A great contribution from Baines.

Runner up – Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Third place – Alexander Kolarov (Man City)

DMC – Lucas Levia – Lucas this season has been regarded as a definite first team player for Liverpool. His performances for Liverpool are far more consistent and much more expansive than when he first joined the club. Against Chelsea, Lucas was magnificent in protecting the defence, intercepting passes and winning tackles. Furthermore, he was fantastic with his ball usage. In 45 passes 40 of those passes were successful. A brilliant pass completion rate from the Brazilian.

Runner up – Joey Barton (Newcastle), Third place – James McCarthy

CM – Raul Meireles (Liverpool) – Under Kenny Dalglish, Meireles has found his form and has shown the Liverpool fans his true quality. In his last 5 games he has scored 4 goals. A tidy return from the midfielder. His willingness and drive to get into the Chelsea box often unsettled the Chelsea defence. And his good all round preformance also saw him grab another Liverpool goal. His brilliance is pushing Gerrard into a more central mmidfield role.

Runner up – Stuart Downing (Aston Villa), Third place – Jermaine Jenas (Tottenham)

AMR- Carlos Tevez (Manchester City) – All this guy knows is how to score goals. And Tevez proved that with a hatrick on Saturday. Yes, two of his goals were penalties, but his tenacity and brilliant dribbling skills made him a nightmare for the West Brom defence. His second goal was pure class. He showed his magical feet and clincal finishing.

Runner up – Andy Johnson (Fulham, Third place – Leon Best (Newcastle)

AML- Robin Van Persie (Arsenal) – The flying dutch man showed his brilliance with a well taken first goal and thumping header.

Runner up – Kevin Doyle (Wolves) Third place – Hugo Rodallega (Wigan)

St – Louis Saha (Everton) – Saha was the difference for Everton. He simply was unstopable. His confidence and class shone through for Everton. Once this guy is in form, he is one of the best in the Premier League.

Game of the week – Newcastle 4 – 4 Arsenal – This was one of the greatest comebacks in Premier League history. Simple as. Within 10 minutes, Newcastle were 3 goals down. By the 30^th minute, they were four down. Newcastle were a pathetic joke in the first half. They had embarrassed their own fans at home. They didn’t get anywhere near Arsenal. But come the second half Newcastle United played them off the park. The dismissal of Diaby arguably stemmed Newcastle’s revival. They showed a fantastic drive to get back into the game. Arsenal should be deadly embarrassed by their performance in the second half. No team, especially a title contender should let a 4 goal lead slip through their hands. But the revival showed the strong sense of unity and character in the Newcastle squad. It’s clear that this Newcastle team still has a lot of talented players even after the sale of Andy Carroll. But no one could have scripted this game, it turned out to be a fairytale for Newcastle and a living nightmare for Arsenal.

Shock result of the week – Chelsea 0 -1 Liverpool – Before this game, all the talk was about Fernando Torres’ record move £50 million to Chelsea. The irony of the transfer was that Torres debut was to be against the team he signed from. Liverpool gate crashed the Chelsea and Torres party. Liverpool played far better than Chelsea who simply looked out of sorts. The blues simply couldn’t break down the Liverpool defence. But Liverpool, a revived team under Kenny Dalglish showed there was life after Torres with a driven performance.

Performance of the week – Wolves 2-1 Man Utd –Wolves showed their quality with a hard fought victory against Man United. They managed to be the first team to defeat Manchester United this season in the League. They achieved this even after the set back of Manchester United scoring first. But Wolves showed their character and refused to let United to run away with it. Wolves responding quickly with a goal. Making it 1-1 by the 11^th minute. But Wolves took advantage of Man United’s wobbly defence and took the lead thanks to Kevin Doyle. The performance and result by Wolves shows that there seriously going to give a strong fight to stay in this league.

Player of the week – Louis Saha (Everton) – Everyone forgets about how seriously good this guy is. On his day he is unplayable. Just ask Blackpool. Saha scored 4 goals this weekend against Blackpool. He showed his true class. When fit and confident Saha can match any striker. And if he can stay fit for Everton expect them to quickly move upwards in the league.

Flop of the week – Fernando Torres – (Chelsea) – The British record signing didn’t show any reason to why he is worth £50 million on Sunday. He was very poor. There was a big expectancy from football fans and the Chelsea fan’s in particular to see Torres attempting to fire on all cylinders now he has got the move he demanded. But he only had 29 touches during his 66 minutes on the pitch. Not inspiring stuff.

Goal of the week – James McCarthy – This is just a sensational goal. He shows his brilliant ball control and agility to leave the Blackburn defenders with no chance. People forget this lad is only 20 years of age. This guy will only get even better with time. Watch the goal here;

Why West Brom have put themselves in far more danger of being relegated due to the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo

West Brom are the Premier League’s yo-yo team. In the last 5 years they have spent three of those years in the Premier League. But this season West Brom have looked a far better Premier League side. They are a team who look comfortable with the ball and they look far more assured against their Premier League oppositions. But a potential spanner has been thrown into the works. A decision which could even see West Brom falling through the precarious trap door. Roberto Di Matteo has been sacked.

Under Di Matteo West Brom flourished. The team sailed through the Championship last season, to instantly return to the Premier League. Upon their return, West Brom started the season with good form. Okay, yes they were hammered by Chelsea in their opening game. But after that result they went on a good run. They beat Arsenal at the Emirates and are the only team this season to pick up any points from Old Trafford. They also smashed Everton by 4 goals to 1 at Goodison Park.

West Brom under Di Matteo have been far more dynamic and attacking. Something which they were lacking the last time they were in the Premier League. Furthermore, their attacking guile has made them a far more difficult opposition to beat. Di Matteo has shaped his team effectively. In Chris Brunt they have a playmaker and a competent set piece taker, who in fact has assisted 10 of West Brom goals. While in Peter Odemwingie, they have a pacey centre forward who has shown his clinical ability. Arguably, Di Matteo’s most successful acquisition is Jerome Thomas. The free transfer has been something of a revelation. Thomas has shown his brilliant pace, trickery and great distribution to assist West Brom with 6 goals. These players have been integral to everything good about West Brom this season. Di Matteo has played a crucial role in getting these players to play effectively at the Premier League level.

Di Matteo’s tactical strategy of keeping the ball and progressively going forward has made West Brom a far more competent and threatening side. Yes, there form has declined since December. But the team clearly has enough character and quality to stay up. Look at the way West Brom play, there is a strong sense of confidence and self belief in their abilties. Something which the serious relegation candidates lack.

What frustrates me so much about the sacking of Di Matteo. Is that this West Brom team are far far better than the previous West Brom sides, who have failed in the Premier League. The success of the current team is down to Roberto Di Matteo. The facts prove this too.

Season	Points	Goals Scored	Goals conceded
2004/05 (finished 17th)	34 points	36	61
2005/06 (finished 19th)	30 points	31	58
2008/09 (finished 20th)	32 points	36	67
Current season – 2010/11 – 25 games played (on 06/02/11)	26 points	31	48

The stats for this season show a telling story. West Brom have already scored the same amount as they did in the 2005/06 season. In addition to this, in the 2008/09 season under Tony Mowbray, West Brom were praised for being a relegation candidate who played ‘football’ even if it meant being relegated. Di Matteo has done the same. His strategy is also to keep the ball on the ground and play progressively. But Di Matteo has tweaked the system and made it even better. As his team are more expansive and threatening. The stats prove this too. This season West Brom have already scored 31 goals. While Mowbray’s West Brom (2008/09) scored 36. With 13 games remaining it’s very likely that West Brom will score more than 5 goals. This proves that under Di Matteo West Brom side are far more of an attacking threat.

A continuous criticism of the relegated West Brom sides were their lack of goals. Di Matteo has rectified that issue to an extent this season.

Furthermore, even though West Brom have 13 more games to play, they are only 7 points behind the 34 points (gained in the 2004/05 season) the highest earned by a West Brom side in the Premier League. And that was the season when they managed to stay in the Premier League. It’s fair to say this West Brom team will achieve more than 7 points by the end of the season. After all, it’s two wins and a draw. Thus meaning it will be the highest points tally achieved by a West Brom side in the Premier League. Something which Roberto Di Matteo has played a crucial role in.

But one must consider, that the Premier League this season has been generally far more inconsistent than previous seasons, thus meaning team’s are dropping points more often. That taken into consideration, West Brom today find themselves with a precarious 24 points. Joint with Wigan who are in 18^th. West Brom are in a dangerous position. But is sacking a manager who has done far better than his predecessors the right answer?

West Brom kept strongly faithful to Tony Mowbray in the 2008/09 season, when they pathetically finished 20th. While West Brom under Roberto Di Matteo have been far more effective in terms of getting results. Yet Di Matteo finds himself out of a job? Its just crazy.

One thing football results strive on is stability. With Di Matteo they had a sytem which yes, wasn’t going through the best form, but it was a system which was accumulating more points than any other West Brom manager in the Premier League. Have the West Brom board seriously thought this through?

The fact the league is so unpredictable and inconsistent surely maintaining your playing style and management style, will help your team get results?

Roberto Di Matteo stated today ‘I was extremely surprised and disappointed to be relieved of my duties.’ I think everyone is surprised that he has been sacked. Arguably their most effective manager has been shown the door. Senseless.

West Brom’s next four games are against; West Ham (H), Wolves (H), Stoke(A) and Birmingham (A). Arguably, these are winnable games. Especially the two home games. Winning those two home games will have only move them upwards. I’m sure Di Matteo targeted the two home games as ‘vital must win games.’ And West Brom would have probably bagged 6 points against Wolves and West Ham. Who have both been woeful on the road Yet now, this shock sacking, could provide instability and see West Brom lose all of these games.

The West Brom board haven taken a risk. A risk which could seriously back fire on them. They have shown the door to a man who has given West Brom so much.

How will Chelsea Shape up now Fernando Torres has arrived

Chelsea’s record signing Fernando Torres has meant Chelsea will have to tweak their formation and system in order to slot Torres into the starting 11. But the signing of Torres could signal the end for some Chelsea players. But the signing of Fernando Torres also shows the dawn of a new era at Chelsea. As it seems Chelsea are looking to refurbish their squad by buying players who are peaking or are on the brink of reaching thier peak.

Dider Drogba and Fernando Torres will lead the Chelsea front line. Drogba, 32, may be coming to the last of his peak days, but he is still a brilliant striker. The Ivorian is a brilliant athlete who will add strength and power to the Chelsea front line. While Torres will add trickery, pace and clinical finishing. Arguably, these two working together sounds like a lethal partnership. As both players bring something different to the table, but the most crucial similarity is that both can finish. My worry is that both strikers are relatively selfish. And the fact Torres at Liverpool played in a system which allowed him to be main striker (seeing as he was the only quality striker.) This meant that Torres was given the responsibility to try and take on players and look to finish rather than pass. While at Chelsea, Torres will be expected to pass more. He will be restricted as he wont be able to take on lots of defenders because both Lampard and Drogba will be in close proximity. Furthermore in certain scenarios Torres may shoot when it was better to pass to his team mates. While Drogba is Chelsea’s main man. And Drogba likes to shoot, in fact he has taken the most shots in the Premier League this season with 72 in total. This could create a little unbalance between the pair as both players want to be the main striker. But if both players find an understanding they could form a formidable partnership.

Chelsea in the past few seasons and especially under Carlo Ancelotti like to play predominantly through the midfield. It shouldn’t surprise many to be honest. As Chelsea have a brilliant midfield with a range of dynamic central midfielders. But with Torres in the side, I expect the midfield to not change dramatically. Ancelotti loves to play a holding defensive midfielder so John Obi Mikel will continue his role. While Essien with his athleticism and generall all round play will maintain his role in the side. Essien will play in a supportive role in midfield, venturing forward when Chelsea are dominant and defending when the ball is in the Chelsea half. As will Ramieres.

The role of Frank Lampard is still going to be vital even with the arrival of Torres. Frank Lampard traditionally plays as the most progressive member of the Chelsea midfield (as an attacking midfielder.) This will most likely continue for Lampard. As Lampard will be the playmaker for both Drogba and Torres, threading through balls for the centre forwards. Furthermore, Lampard will also make forward runs into the opposition’s box. This will allow Lampard the opportunity to finish off chances too. Its clear Chelsea will continue to play with an attacking trio. Ancelotti likes to play his system with an attacking trio. With Torres in the team, the trio will most likely be Torres, Drogba and Lampard.

Here is how I expect Chelsea to shape up;

Firstly one thing stands out. A lack of width. If Chelsea are dominating possession and enforcing themselves onto the oppositions midfield and defence. Expect width to come from Ashley Cole and Branislav Ivanovic. Ashley Cole is arguably the world’s best left back and has brilliant awareness and stamina to continuously venture forward for Chelsea. Both players will play short balls into the midfield and hold wide positions to stretch the play. Expect both full backs to at times cross the ball in from the by-line, as Drogba and Torres are both effective in the air, while Lampard can also be trusted to finish off through flick ons.

In a counter attack or when Chelsea aren’t imposing their midfield effectively in the game, expect Drogba to come out wide. Drogba over the years has proven if needs be he can run with ball and hold the ball on the wings. This will allow Chelsea’s midfielders and full backs to move forward. It will further enable Drogba to thread through balls or cross to Torres who has proved he can finish half chances too. Its clear Torres will also come wide due to his pace and great ball control but I doubt it will be as much as Drogba. As Torres will be expected to stay central where he is far more dangerous.

Two players who have really stood out for Chelsea in the past two years aren’t in my starting 11. Both Nicholas Anelka and Florent Malouda will find it difficult to get starts in this Chelsea side. Even though both have shown great creative assets as well as consistent goal scoring abilities. Torres and Drogba are far more of a threat to their oppositions . But if Lampard gets injured or loses form, it won’t be surprising to see Malouda take his place. Malouda will be far more mobile than Lampard. Malouda will play across the attacking midfield line, popping up on the left, in the middle or even the right depending on Chelsea’s strengths and the opposition’s weaknesses.

While Nicholas Anelka will most likely come off the bench, for one of the strikers. But if Chelsea aren’t winning or lacking a creative or cutting edge upfront, a midfielder may come off in place for Anelka. Ancelotti will defiantly have to think seriously about Anelka. As the Frenchman has been in great form and brings balance to Chelsea’s attack. Furthermore, if Chelsea are playing too narrow, expect Anelka or Kalou to come on and play on the wings to give Chelsea more width.

Chelsea with Torres have even more depth upfront. They now have three world class strikers in Drogba, Torres and Anelka. But the likelihood of all three playing and being successful is small. If they do, it may unbalance the team. As it will cause Drogba and Anelka to be on the wings, with Torres upfront. But this could potentially work too. But I expect Chelsea to play two upfront, with Drogba and Torres leading the line. One should also expect Drogba to play behind Torres. As the Ivorian is stronger and better in the air. This will allow Drogba to flick the ball onto Torres. Also Torres' pace gives him a great advantage too.

Chelsea arguably have a potentially lethal strike force. As both strikers have different qualities and have both shown they can finish off chances. Furthermore the trio of Drogba, Torres and Lampard allows a direct relationship with the midfield. As Lampard will play a crucial role in assisting the strikers. The one issue regarding the two centre forwards is that both are strikers who are supposed to lead the line. This may create a problem. As they may show signs of selfishness. But if they can come together and find an understanding, the Premier League and Europe should most defiantly fear Chelsea.

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Premier League Predictions for 05/04

This weekends Premier League predictions from yours truly and Eric Beard of Football Report. Feel free to question, critique and comment.

Fixture	My Prediction (Ibby Akkas)		Prediction of Eric Beard of a Football Report	Actual Score
Stoke v Sunderland	2-0		1-2	3-2
Aston Villa v Fulham	3-1		2-1	2-2
Everton v Blackpool	2-1		1-1	5-3
Manchester City v West Brom	3-0		3-0	3-0
Newcastle v Arsenal	1-1		1-3	4-4
Tottenham v Bolton	2-0		2-1	2-1
Wigan v Blackburn	0-0		1-1	4-3
Wolves v Manchester United	1-3		1-2	2-1
West Ham v Birmingham	2-1		2-1	1-0
Chelsea v Liverpool	0-0		2-2	0-1
Total correct scores	No. of correct scores -6	No. Of perfect scores - 1	No. of correct scores -3	No. Of perfect scores - 2

Results;

Ibby - 6 correct scores + 1 perfect score

Eric - 3 Correct scores + 2 perfect scores

Ibby got the most correct results, but Eric got the most perfect scores! So I think Eric has won. Perfect scores are better than correct scores!

Please be sure to follow Eric and A Football Report on twitter; @afootballreport . Also check out their website too. http://afootballreport.com/ A website which is flamboyant and specialised footballing website, with some brilliant articles and football cartoons!