Lampard Leaves Chelsea Sour

'It was written in the script' isn't an out of place summary for Frank Lampard facing his former club and pouncing to equalise five minutes from time to deny Chelsea a vital victory at the Etihad  final score 1-1.

After a rapture of applause from both sets of supporters, Lampard entered the fray against the side he left in the summer having deservedly accredited legendary status along with becoming the club's highest goalscorer. Chelsea supporters soon followed his arrival chanting "He's not one of you" but may be rethinking that after the former England midfielder prodded home to salvage a point for his new-blue side, Manchester City.

Chances for both sides were fairly even and despite City having more of a threshold on the match, it was Chelsea's for the taking when Zabaleta was dismissed not long after the hour mark. Locking horns with Diego Costa after a challenge was enough for Mike Dean to issue the Argentinian with his second booking of the game and his marching orders.

It wasn't long before Chelsea took full advantage of their one-man advantage over City. Eden Hazard broke forward and supplied the perfect ball to the back post for substitute Andre Schurrle to prod in to give Chelsea the lead.

With the defensive capabilities of their back four in addition with Matic and Obi Mikel in the centre of midfield, Mourinho's side seemed to have the solidity to hold on for the win against City's depleted ten men. However, tiredness and complacency crept in as the game headed into the closing ten minutes. Spaniard, David Silva at Courtois' back post crossed to James Milner who pulled it back for the man Chelsea would have, in previous seasons wanted the ball to.

Frank Lampard put the ball into the bottom left corner opening his account City and salvaging a precious point and leaving a sour taste in the mouth for Chelsea, the fans seeing their once-hero doing what he did so well for the Blues for over a decade.

Chelsea fans were hoping for another hero, Didier Drogba to reproduce his past prolific finishing upon his entry after replacing the so-far consistent Costa. After Mike Dean awarded the Blues a free-kick from 30 yards from Joe Hart's goal, the Ivorian striker stood over the ball envisioning sinking City's ship for one last time yet the ball only blazed high, way off the mark.

Lampard almost made things more problematic for his former boss Mourinho as he attempted a left foot volley near the death, fortunately for Lampard's former-faithfuls to be relieved seeing his shot blocked by a man in deeper blue.

Although a legend coming back to haunt Chelsea, Mourinho's men are still firmly planted at the head of the Premier League table three points clear of closest challengers Aston Villa and Southampton.

Manuel Pelligrini's men now trail Chelsea by five points after dropping points in two consecutive home games, however it is still early days in the 2014/15 season and almost everyone suspects City to battle it with Chelsea until the curtain falls down next May.

Transfer Business Benefits England

  A number England’s World Cup party are currently settling in with their new clubs after some of the national players have change allegiance despite a tough time in Brazil.  Do these transfers hold the key to better things ahead of Euro 2016?

 This summer has seen the most transfer activity within top clubs surrounding players of the national side for many years now. Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool secured the services of some of England’s top performers and prospects.

   Adam Lallana & Rickie Lambert both jumped ship from Southampton, arriving at Liverpool for a around £30million combined as Brendan Rodgers conducts a bit of reformation to his squad having  also signed Benfica’s Lazar Markovic, striker Divock Origi alongside the English pair’s teammate Dejan Lovren, more to be expected through the Anfield doors within the next few days.

Recently retired captain, Steven Gerrard is a fellow Englishman at Liverpool whilst Jordan Henderson, Glen Johnson and Daniel Sturridge also partnered the new signings during their short stay in Brazil.

 Southampton again conceded defeat to one of the big clubs, Manchester United as Luke Shaw signed seemingly a direct replacement for Juventus newcomer, Patrice Evra. Although behind Leighton Baines during the World Cup and new United boss Louis Van Gaal declaring the young left-back isn’t up to scratch with his fitness, this particular deal is one of the best signings this summer. 

  Only 18 and Shaw has experienced a full top-flight season thrust into Southampton’s starting line-up last term and without a doubt made himself an standout player of the 2013-14 campaign – the single reason Hodgson selected him for the nation’s World Cup group.

Shaw follows in the footsteps of Wayne Rooney, another England international who joined the Red Devils at an early age and I’m sure Rooney – presumed to be announced as Van Gaal’s captain soon – will help the young defender with the pressure of expectation of the Old Trafford crowds.

Not part of the England set-up for Brazil, Callum Chambers is expected to succeed in getting to Russia but has the testing task of becoming an Arsenal regular beforehand – most likely made slightly less considerable when Vermaelen becomes Luis Suarez new teammate at Barcelona.

  Versatility can often be the key for younger players to experience game time, being a towering full-back also gives Chambers the option to fill in any gaps at centre back, again now increasingly visible due to Vermaelen’s impending move. The Southampton academy product added to the group expended by the Saints in 2014 and joins another former Saints graduates, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott in opting for the Gooners.

A lot of hope is held for Chambers, mirror that to when Walcott and ‘The Ox’ arrived at Arsenal yet Arsenal fans are hoping this is one former Saint that can reach the heights envisioned before signing for the London club.

Chambers will also get familiar with another youngster Jack Wilshere of the international scene, the pair potentially could become part of a golden generation for England so long as there are no misguiding subjects en route – referring to Wilshere’s smoking incidents – as well as creating chemistry with others within the national side, something that has lacked over recent years.

Both Chelsea and Manchester City have yet to make notable signings of the English kind – and have let go of home-grown talent in Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole and Jack Rodwell - yet the upcoming Premier League season will be a significant one for the English national team as the aforementioned newcomers begin to sink their boots into one of Football’s top stages.

Loic To Fill Luis' Boots

After Luis Suarez said "Adios" to the Premier League and set off to begin his FIFA-issued Footballing ban with Barcelona, Brendan Rodgers has the unenviable task of finding a prolific goal-scorer.

He may not be one of the World's most renowned strikers, however, Loic Remy looks set for the chance to improve his reputation with an expected move to Liverpool this week. 

Remy now has to thrash out personal terms with The Reds after they met his £8.5 million release clause, specifically applying to Champions League clubs where Liverpool will return to next season after missing the grade in recent years.

After securing a move to QPR in January last year for a fee of £8m, Remy contributed 6 goals in the 2012-13 season but despite his best efforts, QPR failed as a team and suffered relegation after only a solitary season in their return to the top-flight. QPR have again returned to the 'Promise Land' but manager, Harry Redknapp will have to rely on Charlie Austin to provide a high goal tally if they are to survive on their second attempt.

An impressive 14 goals in 26 league appearances during last season's loan spell with Newcastle United made Loic Remy a popular figure but the price tag seems to put off Pardew, who hasn't attempted to bring in the Frenchman on a permanent basis.

Emre Can, Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Lazar Markovic have already been recruited by Brendan Rodgers and a new-look Liverpool are set to roll out in the 2014-15 season. Improvement was definitely required after competing for the title last season, only to fall at the last hurdle.

Loic Remy could be the next man walking in through at Anfield, a battle for a starting berth with Daniel Sturridge and Rickie Lambert commencing once he does so.

Whilst I expect Lambert to take the back seat and be a bit-part player in the next campaign, Remy's biggest task is knocking Sturridge from his perch. Sturridge racked up an impecable 21 goals last season and always played a prominent role in Suarez' absence and the Liverpool faithful may view him as the way forward.

At only 24, in my view, Daniel is not yet the finished product and seeing Loic Remy in action he could learn a few things from the French international.

If Rodgers is willing just like the season just gone, Sturridge could play a role behind Remy either playing in just behind or providing support from the wings yet many argue that the England striker isn't the same player in the deeper roles. Knowing Rodgers tactics it is viewed unlikely that he will opt for two strikers.

Personally, I would choose Loic Remy as the main man. From what I've seen of him during his time at Newcastle United, he's more powerful and a more direct striker than Sturridge and if given significant time in the role just behind the former Marseille man, I believe Sturridge can not only be a great provider for Remy but also notch up plenty of goals for himself.

With Markovic and Raheem Sterling either side of Sturridge, assisting in, well....assisting, Liverpool can again replicate last season's Premier League 102 goal tally and again challenge for title.

Will 2015 be Liverpool's year?

Let me know on Twitter @John_Clarkson 

Suarez A Good Fit For Barca

Each day, Luis Suarez seems a step closer to moving to Barcelona from Liverpool. The Catalan club undeterred by the recent four-month ban he received from FIFA.

Bite-gate has almost blown over following a public apology from Uruguay international, Suarez following his toothed-attack on Italy's Giorgio Chiellini, the Juventus vice-captain quickly replying with a forgiving response.

Football isn't a "3 strikes and you're out" kind of game, if it was then it would be game over for Suarez, having now chewed on 3 different opponents whilst also being caught up in a race scandal back in 2011.

With an incident-tarnished career, after the most recent debacle, some Footballing figures suggested Suarez should be made to get help for his problems, in recent reports Barcelona may partner the Striker with a psychologist to improve his temper and physical outbursts.

All is forgotten after each incident when Luis Suarez shows us his real talent on the field, scoring goals. Racking up 40 goals in 78 appearances for his country and over 150 goals during spells with Ajax & Liverpool, it is hard to deny that Suarez is one of the world's best strikers at the moment and this is what Barcelona are paying a reported £80 million for.

One small dilemma for Barcelona - who had a trophy-less season in 2014 since 2008 - is how he will fit into the side.

King Leo - know also as Lionel Messi - will return from Argentina duty once their run in the World Cup is over. The skillful magician usually leads the line for Barcelona, but following Barcelona's poor season manager, Luis Enrique may choose Suarez to partner the World's best player or operate Messi behind the striker.

Messi will be the main man once La Liga reignites on August 26th, although possibly only until Suarez makes his grand entrance once his ban expires.

A partnership between Lionel Messi & Luis Suarez is something every Football fan would pay to see and has to experimented by Enrique. If it pays off, Barcelona will no doubt have the deadliest strike force in World Football. Two strikers who have it all in their lockers from free-kicks and skills, to headers and volleys. A move for Luis Suarez currently seems good business for Barcelona, even with the player's FIFA ban.

With Barca having replaced Cesc Fabregas with Ivan Rackitic in midfield - pocketing 15 million euros in the process - joining the likes of Xavi, Iniesta & co. there's certainly no lack of creativity. Suarez can only be drooling at the thought of being fed by Barcelona's superb midfield and it will be on a plate for him to carry on his inspiring scoring form.

Once the deal is confirmed, Liverpool have a big task on their hands replacing their talisman number 7, Suarez. 

In the modern era of Football, £80m isn't too overwhelming for a player that is likely to repay that with 80 goals over 2 to 2 & 1/2 seasons along with increasing merchandise sales and increasing Barcelona's chances on the big European stage, the UEFA Champion's League.

Suarez will shine on & off the field in my view, a club like Barcelona will aid in removing his unpredictable side, at least the unpredictable side where he's not using his feet.

Race For Title Underway

Although the Barclays Premier League season starts on Saturday 16th of August, title contenders Manchester United & City along with Chelsea and Liverpool have begun preparing their squads, 12 years since the league was founded. Don't get me wrong, Arsenal, as always are considered strong candidates however, Mr Wenger has been a little slow in acquiring new talent so Gooners don't expect to hear to much about your club in this one.

Take a look at the biggest signings in England so far this summer.

Firstly, a look at Manchester United. No European competitions in the 2014/15 season gives David Moyes' successor - Louis Van Gaal, still yet to be unveiled - a prime opportunity to turn the club's fortunes around from last season and take United to a 14th Premier League title.

Currently on international duty, preparing Holland for a FIFA World Cup Quarter-Final, the former Ajax and Barcelona manager will take the reigns with two new faces in the squad. Luke Shaw, a reported £30m signing followed up the acquisition of midfielder, Ander Herrera from Spanish side, Athletic Bilboa.

The two aforementioned undoubtedly boost what was an ordinary looking Manchester United last season, but another two or three stand-out signings are necessary in my view, to achieve the Premier League title in Van Gaal's first season in charge. Shaw, 18, is seen as the prodigal England left back once he can surpass Leighton Baines in the England squad and has to be a starter in my book, it's Evra's time to step-down. Herrera, still only 24 himself, adds a sense of flair to United's midfield, making them more dynamic. The Holland boss has possibly a bigger task in forging a successful front line, with Wayne Rooney's role undetermined, the same problem can be said for RVP, Mata, Welbeck & co.


A short trip to Merseyside and Brendan Rodgers has added two England internationals to his Liverpool sqaud. The Reds parted with £25m to seal Adam Lallana, who joins Rickie Lambert in moving from Southampton. Both players made their England bow's last season and were part of England's World Cup squad, both however were bit-part players in the group stages. Rodgers will be hoping for them to replicate last season's form, Lambert may get a starting berth following Luis Suarez's four-month ban. Rodgers has also brought in Emre Can, a 20 year-old versatile midfielder, comparing him to Ballack & Schweingsteiger upon his arrival.


Current rumours suggest Liverpool are set to finalise a deal for Lille's Divock Origi. The 19 year-old striker has been a sensation for Belgium in their current World Cup run, overseeing the USA to reach the Quarter-Final. Barcelona are tracking Suarez, despite his ban however it's still unknown whether Brendan Rodgers will allow last season's top-scorer to depart.


London now, and Jose Mourinho has finally wrapped up Diego Costa for Chelsea. A talked-about transfer for some time that has recently been confirmed, after the club had met his release clause from Athletico Madrid. Former Arsenal man, Cesc Fabregas is another player to join from La Liga and is seen as replacement for Frank Lampard who's next destination looks to be the states. Costa is viewed as the manager's main striker next season with Fernando Torres, Demba Ba and Samuel Eto'o all flopping in the goals department.

Mourinho's next target has been touted as Paul Pogba, another player shining at this summer's World Cup in Brazil. Costa's Athletico teammates, Miranda, Felipe and former CFC midfielder Tiago are others to be linked with club in the rumour mill.

Finally Manchester City.

The current Premier League holders have signed Bacary Sagna - another one Arsenal couldn't hold on to - and Brazilian international Fernando from Porto who will link up with his new club after the World Cup. It seems Manuel Pelligrini doesn't plan to change too much to a side that scored a whopping 102 goals in the Premier League last season. Gareth Barry could be heading to Everton, a move which will give him first-team Football, something unlikely at Etihad for Barry.

As for Arsenal, there isn't too much to report. Costa Rica star, Joel Campbell has secured a work permit allowing him to play a role next season. There's still plenty of time till the window shuts in September for Arsene to roll his sleeves up and make the pivotal signings required for the Gooners to any chance of overcome all of the above. Newcastle's Debuchy, is the closest to a new face at the Emirates, rumoured to be unveiled at the Emirates Stadium, once again after the World Cup is over.

Who do you believe will the best signing of 2013-14 season?
Who would you like to see at your club?

Let me know at https://twitter.com/John_Clarkson

England Have Hope

Disappointment yet again for the national team as England will soon be heading home, crashing out of the World Cup in Brazil after only two games.

However, it is not all ‘Doom & Gloom’ for Roy Hodgson’s side who did show promise in defeat against both Italy and Uruguay. Having been on the wrong side of two consecutive 2-1 defeats, England showed promising play but couldn’t get the points to go with it.

Following England’s exit from the competition, it seems Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard may now bow out of the international scene boasting 220 England caps between them. A big opportunity looms ahead of Euro 2016 – if both the previous mentioned retire – to take up the captain’s armband, at the moment the successor is unclear. In previous years, the stand-out candidate would have been Wayne Rooney but his role in the side is also uncertain.

The initial announcement of Hodgson’s team for Brazil didn’t cause too many concerns - bar the exclusion of Ashley Cole - consisted of numerous young players along with a backbone of experience in Lampard, Gerrard, Rooney and others.

A good mix who took quickly to the manager’s philosophy and formation, couldn't muster up enough to defeat any of their Group D opponents.

Familiar faces in Luis Suarez and Mario Balotelli both had a big hand in condemning England out this summer’s World Cup, a blow made only more bitter as against both Uruguay and Italy the result could have ended much differently.

The baton now passes over to the youthful likes of left-back Luke Shaw, Phil Jones and midfielders Jack Wilshere, Ross Barkley, Oxlade-Chamberlain, John Stones and more to forge a more productive free flowing national team to reinstate England as international hierarchy on the next stage, Euro 2016 in France.

Following them into the fore of Euro 2016 are likely to be James Ward-Prowse, Nathan Redmond and others who step-up from England’s Under-21’s side.

Euro 2016 is scheduled to be Roy Hodgson’s last quest as England manager based on his current contract. This will likely be extended if he can continue implementing a successful philosophy but only if more wins are gained from it. The FA will mostly likely intervene if all fails in France by dismissing the former West Brom boss.

As for now, the players face the wrath of the press – as whenever England bow out of an international tournament – once they arrive back in England, time to heal and recover will be required but Hodgson’s men have turn up the heat again as soon as the Euro qualifications come around.

Regardless of the expected departure of two of England’s most experienced players, the current young group of players are still a tough bunch and I expect them to come out fighting from this experience.

Hopefully sooner rather than later more domestic players will be given an opportunity in the Premier League to support the cause of the national team, yet I believe this will only come from action from the FA.

The future captain in my opinion has to be Joe Hart. The dependable, respectable and experienced senior player has the leadership skills to help our younger players grow and can guide them through games, having a view of the other players from England’s box.

 Others are likely to prefer other options but Hart would be my captain, if I were England manager……..if!

To summarise, England fans don't lose faith!

I believe Hodgson has more to give our national team with a very encouraging group of players who are going to require support of the nation once more, do not give up hope yet as success may be on the horizon of 2016.

Costa Costly for Chelsea Strikers

Diego Costa's imminent transfer to Chelsea from Atletico Madrid surrounds the current strikers of Jose Mourinho's side with question marks over their futures.

The latest reports suggest Costa, La Liga's third top-goalscorer in the season just passed, has completed a medical ahead of a £32m deal struck between the capital city clubs. Brazilian-born Costa, both played and scored against Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final stages and now looks set to be playing in blue after the club met his release clause. The completed deal is likely to officially announced before the start of the World Cup where Costa will star for Spain after pledging his national allegiance to the 2010 World Cup winners earlier in 2013.

Chelsea's pursuit of Diego Costa has been speculating for some-time and hasn't just came out of the blue (pardon the pun). Manager, Mourinho has especially critical of his strikers over the last campaign, notably commenting on various deficiencies like Samuel Eto'o's and made clear a new frontman was his priority for the current transfer window. His fairy godmother......father, Roman Abramovich has granted him this wish allowing the London club to open talks with Champions League finalists, Atletico.

So, Fernando Torres, Demba Ba, Samuel Eto'o (already leaving) and the returning Romelu Lukaku are most likely wondering whether they'll be in Mourinho's plans for next season. Despite Demba Ba showing he can find the back of the net when needed, for example in Chelsea's win at Anfield, he has failed to hold down a starting spot and like Costa's international team-mate Torres, have been far from prolific. Eto'o's contract soon expires and we've known for a while he wouldn't be staying after declarations of Mourinho's ill-confidence in him were made public.

Lukaku, for the moment, is a different story. Returning to the club after two consecutive & successive loan spells, firstly with West Brom & last season with Everton, the big Belgian has proved himself as a goalscorer within the English Premier League. Keeping Romelu at Chelsea would be a wise decision by Mourinho if he opted to do so, Lukaku still only 21 with proven ability to play at the highest level and may heavily boost Chelsea's chances of the title next season.

It still remains to be seen however, if Lukaku will want to be second-fiddle to Costa, likely to be benched ahead of the Spaniard. Based on his form for the La Liga winners, Diego Costa will surely be the focal striker for the former Porto boss, Mourinho. Potentially, Lukaku and Costa could forge the most formidable forwards in the Premier League in the 2014-15 season, yet the style of Chelsea's play with attacking midfielders like Eden Hazard, Oscar & Willian will leave only one spot for striker will be available.

Following the release of Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard etc. the Blues seem to be balancing the books and adhere to the Financial Fair Play regulations set by UEFA, the offloading of misfiring Torres and Co. shall aid Mourinho's plans if they go ahead with the rumoured attempts to sign another Spanish international and former Arsenal midfielder, Cesc Fabregas which Barcelona are commanding £30m for.

Lions Can Roar In Brazil

Following last night's World Cup warm-up friendly against Peru at Wembley, England's  fans' optimism wasn't showing greatly especially on social media sites.

A 3-0 scoreline wasn't enough to convince too many that winning the World Cup is a realistic scenario at this moment in time. In truth, a few performances were below what was expected yet they say the best teams still win matches even when they're not at their best.

Positives from the Peru victory won't create an endless list, however, there's still certainly some to draw up and bearing in mind the likes of Jagielka and Wilshere still need playing time before being classed as fully-fit, things will only improve before England's opening fixture against Italy on June 14th in Brazil.

At times, the link-up play between Welbeck, Lallana & Sturridge was nice to watch, various flicks, passes & turns showed a glimpse of the flair England's attacking players hold, an attribute in the locker which will have to be pushed by Hodgson in attempt to unlock defenses at the South American tournament.

Daniel Sturridge's goal just after the half-hour mark, an example of the Liverpool's strikers ability, curling a delicious, unstoppable shot into the top corner of the goal which any could not help but admire and appreciate. England's goal hopes do not solely lay on Sturridge's shoulders but he's certain to spearhead the attack. He knows more than any that he will need to replicate his performances over the season just past to give England a major chance at the World Cup, and make himself an international star in the process.

England's midfield is the most mouth-watering area of the squad. Certainly the most balanced and exciting midfield for many years, Gerrard, Jordan Henderson and Frank Lampard all can sit in the centre of the pitch giving those further on in Lallana, Wilshere & co the freedom  to attack and support to Sturridge by exploiting routes to get on goal.

Wayne Rooney may have to take a back seat for this tournament. The former Everton youngster was considered potentially England's best player for years to come following his inclusion in Euro 2004 yet in truth, he has never shone as bright as many of us expected. Theres no doubting his performances in a Manchester United shirt, and although he has scored important goals in the qualifying stages, its still to be seen whether he can make himself a pivotal figure playing behind Daniel Sturridge. Rooney failed to make an impact on the Peru game, leaving questions as to whether Ross Barkley or another player should take his place.

A clean sheet is always a positive, although there were a few defensive lapse in concentration against Peru that threatened this. Regardless, Englands back four (five including Joe Hart) is fairly solid, Kyle Walker misses through injury and would have gone as first choice right back but Glen Johnson is qualified enough to be his replacement. As previously mentioned, Phil Jagielka needs match practice which will be obtained in the upcoming friendlies against Ecuador and Honduras. I believe the bold decision to choose Baines as first choice left back and leave Ashley Cole at home has to be applauded as, in my personal opinion Leighton Baines provides an additional substantial attacking threat at the correct times leaving no risk to his fellow defenders.

Overall, England has one of the best squads for since many tournaments ago, strong back-up players like Raheem Sterling who could potentially be starters if required. There's certainly enough quality to match that of Italy and Uruguay, where wins will be required to overcome a fairly tough group stage. The Brazilian heat will take a little getting used to, other European nations will be in the same boat though. As the days draw closer to the opening game against Italy, England fans can only start to breed enthusiasm and optimism.

The main question we all wonder is, "Can England really win the World Cup this year?"

I say,  "Why not?!"

Manager Merry-Go-Round Continues

The role of Football Manager has quickly become the most insecure job in the world, as of next season the term ‘contract’ should be redefined as ‘pay-off package’.  Even at the seasons end, managerial casualties continue, Pepe Mel the latest to be given his marching orders regardless to the fact he successfully retained West Brom’s top-flight place.

David Moyes is just part-proof of the meaningless of a contract after succeeding the almighty Alex Ferguson, seemingly the future of Manchester United putting his signature on a six-year contract. The former Red Devils boss left red-faced when he was relieved of his duties despite not even completing a single season as boss.

The 2013-14 Premier League season produced 11 changes in the hotspot, Ian Holloway at Crystal Palace being the single figure choosing the exit door for himself. Sunderland began the firing, kicking out eccentric Italian Paulo Di Canio following poor results and crazy antics which left the board hugely unimpressed.

In no particular order; Mackay, Laudrup, Hughton, Jol, AVB, Steve Clarke, Moyes, Renee Mulensteen and finally today, Pepe Mel completed the list of the top-flight managers that have fallen victim to ruthless world that is Football Management, so many names it sounds like a starting line-up. Winning games is essentially the aim of the game for managers, a feat which the previously mentioned failed to master yet many sackings were still thought of as unfair.

Cardiff City rose to the Premier League for the first time in their history under the guidance of Malky Mackay, the Scotsman was sacked in December despite many having faith in his methods. Owner Vincent Tan’s heavy disagreements with Mackay saw to the decision, and has today proclaimed the club’s relegation was Mackay’s doing.

Does Tan suffer from short-term memory loss and has forgotten the last five months?!

Tan switched Mackay with former Red Devil Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, no surprise there was not a massive amount of candidates vying for the role after Tan showed his true colours attempting to meddle in the club’s footballing affairs. Solskjaer had the perfect opportunity in the shape of the January transfer window to fill 

Cardiff’s cracks but ultimately the Norwegian’s performance at the helm led to the Bluebirds demise.

Chris Hughton also receives a mention and commiserations, losing his job only for the youth team manager to replace him. A relegation battle Is not light matter and when the Norwich City players needed rejuvenating to survive the club bizarrely altered the tactics and offered a man with no management experience to take on this mountain of a task, only to find themselves relegated on the final day of the season……doh!

In truth, I could continue for a considerable amount of time highlighting errors fashioned by chairmen and clubs who have terminated manager’s contracts because of impatience, pressure of the modern game whether that be financial or from the media or the more irrational reasons but there is just too many that have failed to pay off.

Will there be a point where more will be done by leagues or other governing bodies create legislations to protect managers or will the continuous rise in managerial casualties simply keep mounting?

 In the modern game where chairmen aim for quick fixes and reaching financial goals e.g Premier League, Champions League etc. more has to be done to protect the middle-man who all the failings fall on.

Final Day Ups & Downs

The Football League's season finale certainly brought plenty of action yesterday and ironed out the remaining promotion and relegation issues which required sorting.

Leicester City and Burley went into their final fixtures relaxed, knowing whatever came the promised land of the Premier League had been grasped long before kick-off on Saturday. Nigel Pearson's Leicester City amassing a huge 102 point total taking the Championship by storm, only 5 points short of taking Reading's title of most points in a season - 106 in the 2005-06 season - and will make a return to the top flight since being relegated from the Premier League in the 03-04 season.

Brighton & Reading were the only sides capable of taking 6th place - Derby County, QPR & Wigan all previously securing play-off spots. Reading previously occupied the final place before kick-off and must have felt their hard work had paid off, McCleary equalising for the Royals against 2nd place Burnley to make it 2-2, however no amount of pressure which Nigel Adkins side could break down Burnley's door for a third time. A point had looked to be enough for Reading yet like so many times before, Football proved why it's the most viewed sport in the World, a single goal changing everything. Brighton forced a fightback at Nottingham Forest, their determination paying off with Leonardo Ulloa's 90th minute goal completed the play-off package. The seagulls face Derby County while QPR and Wigan battle it out to book a play-off final place at Wembley and ultimately aim to follow Leicester and Burnley to the golden gates of top-flight Football.

Leicester not only took the title, but affected the other end of the scale on the final day. David Nugent broke Doncaster Rovers hearts with a 75th minute penalty, condemning them to an immediate League 1. Birmingham City remaining a Championship outfit via an unbelievable two-goal turnaround against Bolton Wanderers, a clash which once was of the Premier League only a few seasons ago. Paul Caddis defied belief by burying the ball into Bolton's net in the 93rd minute.

Wolverhampton Wanderers mirrored Leicester City in winning their league title and relegating their final opponents at the end of the 2013-14 season. The play-offs already complete before Saturday's games, filled by Leyton Orient, Rotheram, Preston and finally Manager of the Month, Darrell Ferguson's Peterborough United, all now continue to fight for a prospective place in the Championship next season. Defeats for Carlisle United (against Wolves), and Tranmere (losing 2-1 to Bradford) sent them into the abyss along with already relegated Shrewsbury and Stevenage, all four heading for campaigns in League 2 once the summer is over.  A single point by Notts County was more than enough to save them from a completely disappointing campaign.

In the final tier of the Football League, 2nd placed Scunthorpe United played out a 2-2 draw to York City, York exceeding all expectations after reaching the play-offs, Nigel Worthington making himself a big contender for manager of the season. Sam Hird and Gary Roberts scored for Chesterfield in their 2-1 victory versus Fletwood - also in the play-offs - finalising the only Football League title left up for contention. Rochdale claimed the 3rd and final automatic promotion place and are now aiming to push up the footballing ladder alongside previously mentioned Scunthorpe & Chesterfield. The least expected relegation candidates for League 2 before yesterdays kick-off fell at the final hurdle, Bristol Rovers failing to overcome Mansfield Town whilst rivals Wycombe Wanderers romped to a 3-0 scalp of bottom placed Torquay, Northampton Town scoring as many goals bringing their own safety. Only a difference of 3 goals officially saving my local team Wycombe Wanderers.

Most Football League fans will now be watching on the final Sunday of Premier League in one week, one final relegation scrap for Norwich, Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion. However, the most tantalizing
title race of the decade beckons for 3 teams for which the Barclays Premier League is still up for grabs.

Title Race Wide Open

Results in the space of a few hours has once again made the Premier League title a possibility for both Chelsea and Manchester City.

    Anfield staged the first of two games which have reduced Liverpool’s chance of making history this season. Liverpool looked favourites ahead of their clash with their rivals from the capital. Jose Mourinho, Chelsea manager forced into notable changes due to his sides upcoming Champions League semi-final 2^nd leg with Atletico Madrid.

Collective errors cost Liverpool causing both of Chelsea’s goals at the end of both halves. Liverpool are now not totally in control of their own destiny with Manchester City holding a game in hand, away to none other than the Red’s Merseyside rivals, Everton.

Red’s boss Brendan Rodgers stuck with the same side that secured a 3-2 victory at Norwich a week ago, his counterpart and former colleague Mourinho handed Demba Ba a start, Salah and Matic returned following their ineligibility in the recent European fixture. More surprisingly, Tomas Kalas was handed his Premier League debut, seen by many as a risk with the match holding such importance on the race for first place.

Spurred on by a full house, Liverpool started brightly but from the off Chelsea were hard to break down. The wall of Blue players kept tight throughout picking intelligent moments to attack rarely throwing too many into Liverpool’s half.

Chelsea frustrated the home fans and players alike, continuously running the clock down deliberately, delaying throw-ins and goal kicks etc. Referee Martin Atkinson raising his watch numerous times to Blue’s players demonstrating he was only going to add more time on, 7 minutes in total.

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard made an uncharacteristic mistake resulting in Ba’s opening goal. The mistake probably unforgivable in the eyes of the fans if it was made by a less popular player. A slip deep in his own half upon receiving the ball allowed the Senegal international, Ba to run on uncontested a roll the ball under Simon Mingolet, just his 6^th league goal this season.

Over the course of the 2^nd, the home side spent long periods in the opponents half of the field in search for an equaliser. Constantly made to utilise wide players in the first half, Liverpool tried to instigate moves through the centre of the park yet, the minimal gap between Chelsea’s defence and midfield managed to cut out any hope of a goal.

Liverpool’s attacking players, known for flair and cohesion this season but today, figures including Allen, Sterling, Gerrard & Suarez seemed out of sync, lacking quality to break down Mourinho’s well-constructed, compact defence. Even Daniel Sturridge’s return from injury had no apparent effect and with little clear-cut chances, Chelsea secured a clean sheet. The inexperienced Kalas, a proverbial rock alongside Ivanovic.

Chelsea and Liverpool became a big rivalry since Jose Mourinho’s first stint in charge, this time he is the one with the bragging rights, stopping Liverpool in their tracks via mastermind tactics. The Portuguese running to away supporters, when Liverpool had pushed to high up in stoppage time and a quick counter contributed mainly by former Red, Fernando Torres saw Chelsea score a second as Torres found himself 1-on-1 with the keeper, unselfishly playing across to Willian to walk the ball in the net.

On the final whistle, the onus was on Manchester City. If they secured a win at Selhurst Park City would move 3 points from the summit. Opponents Crystal Palace have been tough to play against with manager Tony Pulis pulling them far away from the relegation zone since his arrival, but City secured a 2-0 victory courtesy of Edin Dzeko and Yaya Toure goals.

Results today have reopened the door for Chelsea and Manchester City to win the Premier League title despite Liverpool retaining top spot. Chelsea have what is arguably the easier run in, facing Norwich and Cardiff City in their final two games, the Barclays Premier League title is once again a 3 horse race and realistically any side can win it.

My personal prediction is Manchester City, already previously familiar with current situation. Despite a tough game at Goodison Park, they’ll use their title-winning experience to secure the trophy once more. Chelsea will tire over the next week being in the Champions League and today’s loss will hit Liverpool very hard.

Young Lions Hoping To Leap To Brazil

    Only 53 days until the FIFA World Cup in Brazil and there are some players who are picking the right time to perform to get themselves on Roy Hodgson's radar.

A number of places are all but set in stone - barring any injuries - figures such as Joe Hart, Wayne Rooney, Jack Wilshere, Gary Cahill etc. but many names are still being thrown around regarding who will board the plane to Brazil.
  23 is the limit that Hodgson can choose for his disposal, meaning some will be left watching the tournament like the rest of us, from a TV screen.

Performances from a few individuals this season have called for some consideration, giving Hodgson a welcomed selection headache. Luke Shaw (Southampton) and Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), two not long ago were part of the England U21 set-up and that have progressed further than many could have imagined in such a short space of time too.

A battle in the left-back berth commenced long ago. The trio fighting it out are Chelsea's veteran, Ashley Cole, the ever-impressive Leighton Baines and this seasons consistent Southampton youngster, Luke Shaw. Question marks arose not too long ago over Cole's 'right' to be on board, appearing on 21 times in all competitions this season.
 An argument is at hand that his experience will be crucial against strong attacking sides like Italy and Uruguay, but for me, I believe despite his old head he may get found short due to his lack of match time and possibly it is time for him to hang up his international boots to prolong career at club level.

Baines has to be first choice. Too little has he been sat in the shadows behind Cole, and he's proven he can perform at the highest level in the last year through his performances at club and international level. The Toffee's player most definitely doesn't lack experience either, having spent almost 7 years in the Premier League at Everton, he's exactly what Luke Shaw should be looking to emulate and like most.

Although Shaw is somewhat of a raw talent, with the guidance of Baines he has the ability to be a very capable back-up and as I'm sure many will agree, has proven potential to become one the world's best left backs for years to come.

Raheem Sterling, another English youngster featuring prominently as well as shining above many others has had a big hand in getting Liverpool to the summit of the Premier League. The 19 year-old's brace against Norwich earlier today in the 3-2 victory took his tally to 10 goals for the season as well as keeping the Red's title hopes intact. Hodgson will probably choose this livewire for Brazil, in my opinion Adam Lallana is the only English winger to have bettered him this season. For me, Adam Lallana has a lot more in his locker to offer but if England are ever in need of pace to get behind defenders then Sterling will be the go-to man.

Sunderland's Connor Wickham is my final highlight. A loan spell with Sheffield Wednesday earlier this season seems to have brought Wickham to life, having failed to make any kind of impact following his move from Ipswich. He scored 9 goals in 17 appearances for the Hillsborough side, he steered the Owls away from danger, before moving on loan to Yorkshire rivals, Leeds briefly before being recalled by Gus Poyet due to an injury crisis.
  On his return Connor Wickham scored 2 goals in a surprising 2-2 draw with Manchester City and bagged a goal at Stamford Bridge during Sunderland's 2-1 victory on Saturday. The Hereford-born striker may feature in a England friendly before Hodgson picks his final 23, however I don't believe his end-of-season form will be enough to earn him a World Cup place, Rickie Lambert and Andy Carroll most likely ahead of him in Hodgson's mind.

So, with only 3 games remaining for most teams in the Premier League, performances can still catch the eye of the England manager and the final 23 places are by no means filled.

Pulis' Party at Palace

Earlier this season, Crystal Palace flirted with an immediate return to the Championship, languishing at the foot of the Barclay's Premier League table tallying a lowly 4 points. The future seemed bleak as The Eagles.

23rd of November 2013, enter Tony Pulis.


A manager that has never tasted the bitterness of relegation, took the reigns from his son's Godfather, Ian Holloway. Looked upon by Crystal Palace to install consistency and solidarity, well known for doing so from his time at his previous employers Stoke City FC.

Once reaching the heights of the Europa League with his previous club in the 2011-12 season as well as boasting FA Cup runners up the season before, the Welshman began a dogfight to save Crystal Palace returning to 2nd tier Football. Pulis certainly wasn't blind to the task in hand, "I like climbling hills" he stated, "and this is going to be a tough job".

It didn't take long for the Pulis to put his coaching prowess to work as Palace secured a 1-0 victory against local rivals West Ham, the new manager's first win in charge, the goal coming from a previously poor-standard Chamakh. The former Arsenal man followed this with goals in two consecutive matches showing glimpses of why Ian Holloway had signed him.

Picking up a further 6 wins in charge by the end of the January transfer window, alongside a foray of new faces in the forms of Tom Ince (loan), Joe Ledley, Scott Dann, Wayne Hennesey and the current formidable midfield Jason Puncheon, Tony Pulis was creating his brand at Crystal Palace. To a lot of people's surprise, including my own, Pulis founded a side unlike his old Stoke City but, players with attacking flair and who in comparison with Pulis' Stoke team, rarely play long balls when attacking.

Tony Pulis has now forged an outfit that aren't predictable and certainly no pushovers as fans may have thought under his predecessor. Palace have claimed precious victories a long there way against the likes of those tempting fate near the bottom of the table as well as a superlative 1-0 performance against Mourinho's title-chasing Chelsea.

Last night Pulis continued his Palace turnaround with an emphatic 3-2 scalping of Everton at Goodison Park, accomplishing 4 successive victories that have helped accumulate to Palace's 40 points - the mark which is widely regarded as a safety target - still with 4 games remaining. A win of this caliber is no small feat, The Toffees looking to fill the final Champions League spot ahead of Arsenal, an obstacle possibly too large following the defeat.

Jason Puncheon, who scored in the win against Everton scored his third goal in as many games, is a man, just like Cameron Jerome and Scott Dann who has Palace manager Tony Pulis to thank for putting his career on the upturn once more having made Puncheon's loan deal permanent in January.

Pulis' Palace will be surely partying come the close of the current season, assured of their place in the Barclays Premier League for the 2014-15 sesaon. All of us Football fans are now wondering what heights will Tony Pulis hit next season?