Given that there are a plethora of fixtures on this midweek, instead of a small number of detailed previews, this writer has decided to give a more general look at the whole card, and offer some wisdom. Enjoy
Tuesday's Fixtures
In the Champions League Qualifiers, expect Atletico Madrid tp have enough firepower in attack to overcome Panathinaikos and progress to the group stages- in the 1st leg, Pana simply could not deal with the interplay between Diego Forlan and Sergio Aguero. FC Zurich should also progress at the expense of FK Ventspils, after the Swiss side won 3-0 in the first leg.
In the Carling Cup, the probability that many sides will rest players makes betting on some matches very tricky indeed. Goalscorer markets are best avoided until teamsheets are published. Nonetheless, Premier League sides Hull City and Portsmouth should surely still have too much quality for Southend and Hereford respectively. There promises to be a highly-charged East London derby at Upton Park tonight, where this writer expects West Ham to recover from their weekend defeat and overcome Millwall. Championship sides QPR and Swansea should also progress. Elsewhere, if you're looking for an upset, then Swindon and Tranmere could both sneak results against what are likely to be under-strength teams from Wolves and Bolton respectively.
In the Co-Op Cup in Scotland, expect Dundee United to progress, along with Inverness CT (before their mauling on Saturday) and Dundee.
Tuesday 25 August 2009
Friday 21 August 2009
Arsenal v Portsmouth, Saturday 22nd August
My Thoughts
Given the starts that these two sides have made, this one looks like a nailed-on home banker. Expect the home team to appear on numerous accumulators this weekend. In midweek, Arsenal benefitted again from a switch to a 4-3-3 system this season, with more than a hint of an influence coming from the system with which Barcelona were so spectacularly successful last season: constant interchanging of the front players, midfielders such as Fabregas and Denilson carrying the team forward from the centre of the park, and aggressive pressing of the ball by the forward line. Portsmouth, on the other hand, looked unadventurous and have failed to impress in 1-0 defeats so far to Fulham and Birmingham, and it is difficult to see them doing much other than going for an exercise in damage limitation, especially given that the last time they won away from home in the Premier League, George Bush was President of the USA.
The Verdict
It's difficult to predict anything other than a home win. Arsenal traditionally always start well before going up north in winter and finding that they don't like it up 'em. However, that's for the future. As for the game on Saturday, home win, and a comfortable one at that should Arsenal break the deadlock early enough.
The Bet
There's not much value in backing Arsenal outright on a single (1/6 with Blue Square). Best to look at other markets. Cesc Fabregas has been outstanding so far this season, and could be a shout as anytime goalscorer, otherwise it's worth considering over 2.5 goals, as games between these sides have tended to produce goals.
Given the starts that these two sides have made, this one looks like a nailed-on home banker. Expect the home team to appear on numerous accumulators this weekend. In midweek, Arsenal benefitted again from a switch to a 4-3-3 system this season, with more than a hint of an influence coming from the system with which Barcelona were so spectacularly successful last season: constant interchanging of the front players, midfielders such as Fabregas and Denilson carrying the team forward from the centre of the park, and aggressive pressing of the ball by the forward line. Portsmouth, on the other hand, looked unadventurous and have failed to impress in 1-0 defeats so far to Fulham and Birmingham, and it is difficult to see them doing much other than going for an exercise in damage limitation, especially given that the last time they won away from home in the Premier League, George Bush was President of the USA.
The Verdict
It's difficult to predict anything other than a home win. Arsenal traditionally always start well before going up north in winter and finding that they don't like it up 'em. However, that's for the future. As for the game on Saturday, home win, and a comfortable one at that should Arsenal break the deadlock early enough.
The Bet
There's not much value in backing Arsenal outright on a single (1/6 with Blue Square). Best to look at other markets. Cesc Fabregas has been outstanding so far this season, and could be a shout as anytime goalscorer, otherwise it's worth considering over 2.5 goals, as games between these sides have tended to produce goals.
Saturday 15 August 2009
Shifty's Season Preview Part 11 of 11. No, really
Wolves
Winning the Championship last year gives Mick McCarthy another chance in the Premier League. Last season, Wolves were adventurous, scoring plenty of goals courtesy of the likes of Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, Chris Iwelumo, Sam Vokes and Andy Keogh. And therein lies the rub. Those 4 between them have scored a total of 0 Premier League goals. New signing Kevin Doyle will look to add goals, though. And then there's the defence, which looked shaky for long periods of last season's Championship campaign. Wolves simply cannot afford a repeat of last season's terrible winter form if they are to have any chance of surviving.
Verdict: Wolves must start well if they are to stay up. It will be intriguing to see if they maintain their attacking approach, or whether McCarthy may withdraw a striker in order to try and gain a foothold in midfield.
Winning the Championship last year gives Mick McCarthy another chance in the Premier League. Last season, Wolves were adventurous, scoring plenty of goals courtesy of the likes of Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, Chris Iwelumo, Sam Vokes and Andy Keogh. And therein lies the rub. Those 4 between them have scored a total of 0 Premier League goals. New signing Kevin Doyle will look to add goals, though. And then there's the defence, which looked shaky for long periods of last season's Championship campaign. Wolves simply cannot afford a repeat of last season's terrible winter form if they are to have any chance of surviving.
Verdict: Wolves must start well if they are to stay up. It will be intriguing to see if they maintain their attacking approach, or whether McCarthy may withdraw a striker in order to try and gain a foothold in midfield.
Shifty's Season Preview Part 10 of We're Almost Done Now...
Wigan Athletic
New manager Roberto Martinez will look to have Wigan playing a more aesthetically-pleasing style this season. He is likely to switch to the 4-3-3 formation that his Swansea side played with such success last season, and has brought with him midfielder Jordi Gomez and striker Jason Scotland. Colombian Hugo Rodallega has had a few months to settle in to the Premier League, and therefore much will be expected of the powerful striker, who showed promise initially. Defensively, Wigan were very strong last season, quite an achievement for a side who regularly feature Titus Bramble. Chris Kirkland is just one of a plethora of players who this writer reckons have a chance of pushing for a World Cup place.
VerdictL As long as Martinez's side pick up points early on, they should be comfortably safe. Should they stay clear of injuries, then they might just sneak a Europa League spot
New manager Roberto Martinez will look to have Wigan playing a more aesthetically-pleasing style this season. He is likely to switch to the 4-3-3 formation that his Swansea side played with such success last season, and has brought with him midfielder Jordi Gomez and striker Jason Scotland. Colombian Hugo Rodallega has had a few months to settle in to the Premier League, and therefore much will be expected of the powerful striker, who showed promise initially. Defensively, Wigan were very strong last season, quite an achievement for a side who regularly feature Titus Bramble. Chris Kirkland is just one of a plethora of players who this writer reckons have a chance of pushing for a World Cup place.
VerdictL As long as Martinez's side pick up points early on, they should be comfortably safe. Should they stay clear of injuries, then they might just sneak a Europa League spot
Shifty's Season Preview Part 9 of I'd better get a move on...
West Ham
Gianfranco Zola's side were something of a revelation last season, combining all the playing qualities of their manager and his assistant, Steve Clarke: solid at the back, creative up front. They have been quiet in the summer, making Radoslav Kovac's loan move permanent, and bringing in Inter forward Luis Jimenez in on loan. Zola clearly has a lot of faith in youngsters such as Mark Noble, James Tomkins and Junior Stanislas, and those 3 can all expect to feature throughout the season. Retaining England hopefuls Matthew Upson and Rob Green will be crucial, and Carlton Cole will be expected to score more often if he too is to push for an England place.
Verdict: Expect them to be around the area of last season's 9th place finish
Gianfranco Zola's side were something of a revelation last season, combining all the playing qualities of their manager and his assistant, Steve Clarke: solid at the back, creative up front. They have been quiet in the summer, making Radoslav Kovac's loan move permanent, and bringing in Inter forward Luis Jimenez in on loan. Zola clearly has a lot of faith in youngsters such as Mark Noble, James Tomkins and Junior Stanislas, and those 3 can all expect to feature throughout the season. Retaining England hopefuls Matthew Upson and Rob Green will be crucial, and Carlton Cole will be expected to score more often if he too is to push for an England place.
Verdict: Expect them to be around the area of last season's 9th place finish
Shifty's Season Preview Part 8 of the clock is ticking....
Portsmouth
The proposed takeover simply has to go through if Portsmouth are to stay up: there has been minimal investment in what was already a limited squad: the departures of Glen Johnson and Peter Crouch have only served to make the situation even worse. New striker Frederic Piquionne simply has to settle in quickly and score goals, otherwise Pompey are in trouble. Can David James, now 39, be expected to perform miracles in goals again, behind a fragile defence?
Verdict: Expect them to be near the bottom by January, regardless of the takeover situation. Another miraculous escape may then be required.
Stoke City
In Stoke, the local NHS have advised season-ticket holders at the Britannia Stadium to consider investing in a neck brace, for their own health, due to the amount of time the ball spends in the air during Stoke games. Tony Pulis' side were far from the prettiest side in the league, but they were effective, at least to an extent. Their main concern will be that old cliche, Second Season Syndrome. James Beattie will be required to continue his form from the 2nd half of last season throughout the whole of this season (a good season may even lead to a World Cup place for him). In the midfield, Dean Whitehead looks a decent addition, while Matthew Etherington gives the side some much-needed width. Defensively, Abdoulaye Faye and Ryan Shawcross were nigh-on insurmountable at times, and since when did Thomas Sorensen look like an accomplished Premier League keeper?
Verdict: Once again, it won't be pretty, and it may require another couple of shrewd Januray signings, but expect Stoke to survive.
Sunderland
Steve Bruce takes over at the Stadium of Light, and will be expected to improve on last season's dreadful end to the season. He has already started that process by bringing in a number of players, namely Darren Bent (therefore cementing Spurs' status as something of a Sunderland feeder club), Fraizer Campbell, Paulo da Silva and Lee Cattermole. Cattermole will not half add bite to a talented but potentially lightweight midfield containing the likes of Kieran Richardson, Andy Reid and Steed Malbranque. Bent and Campbell will provide goals, although the defence will still be a worry for Bruce. However, there is enough quality (with further investment in the squad, should it be required, likely to come in January) there to suggest mid-table is very much achievable.
Tottenham Hotspur
Harry Redknapp has been at it again, buying and selling players for fun. In have come Kyle Naughton, Sebastien Bassong and Peter Crouch, with numerous players departing to make way. Last season, rather astonishingly, Spurs' defensive record at home was actually rather good, with Gomes, after some early-season jitters, growing immensely in confidence as the season went on. The signings of Naughton and Bassong, as well as the return from injury of Alan Hutton, should help ensure Spurs don't concede many once again. In midfield, Luka Modric began to excel as the season went on, and will be the main creative force again. On the right wing, if Aaron Lennon could actually cross the ball, then he would be a fearsome prospect. Spurs certainly have quantity in attack, with Crouch, Defoe, Pavlyuchenko and Robbie Keane all competing for 1 or 2 starting spots.
Verdict: The squad would appear to be there for Spurs to finish in the top half.
The proposed takeover simply has to go through if Portsmouth are to stay up: there has been minimal investment in what was already a limited squad: the departures of Glen Johnson and Peter Crouch have only served to make the situation even worse. New striker Frederic Piquionne simply has to settle in quickly and score goals, otherwise Pompey are in trouble. Can David James, now 39, be expected to perform miracles in goals again, behind a fragile defence?
Verdict: Expect them to be near the bottom by January, regardless of the takeover situation. Another miraculous escape may then be required.
Stoke City
In Stoke, the local NHS have advised season-ticket holders at the Britannia Stadium to consider investing in a neck brace, for their own health, due to the amount of time the ball spends in the air during Stoke games. Tony Pulis' side were far from the prettiest side in the league, but they were effective, at least to an extent. Their main concern will be that old cliche, Second Season Syndrome. James Beattie will be required to continue his form from the 2nd half of last season throughout the whole of this season (a good season may even lead to a World Cup place for him). In the midfield, Dean Whitehead looks a decent addition, while Matthew Etherington gives the side some much-needed width. Defensively, Abdoulaye Faye and Ryan Shawcross were nigh-on insurmountable at times, and since when did Thomas Sorensen look like an accomplished Premier League keeper?
Verdict: Once again, it won't be pretty, and it may require another couple of shrewd Januray signings, but expect Stoke to survive.
Sunderland
Steve Bruce takes over at the Stadium of Light, and will be expected to improve on last season's dreadful end to the season. He has already started that process by bringing in a number of players, namely Darren Bent (therefore cementing Spurs' status as something of a Sunderland feeder club), Fraizer Campbell, Paulo da Silva and Lee Cattermole. Cattermole will not half add bite to a talented but potentially lightweight midfield containing the likes of Kieran Richardson, Andy Reid and Steed Malbranque. Bent and Campbell will provide goals, although the defence will still be a worry for Bruce. However, there is enough quality (with further investment in the squad, should it be required, likely to come in January) there to suggest mid-table is very much achievable.
Tottenham Hotspur
Harry Redknapp has been at it again, buying and selling players for fun. In have come Kyle Naughton, Sebastien Bassong and Peter Crouch, with numerous players departing to make way. Last season, rather astonishingly, Spurs' defensive record at home was actually rather good, with Gomes, after some early-season jitters, growing immensely in confidence as the season went on. The signings of Naughton and Bassong, as well as the return from injury of Alan Hutton, should help ensure Spurs don't concede many once again. In midfield, Luka Modric began to excel as the season went on, and will be the main creative force again. On the right wing, if Aaron Lennon could actually cross the ball, then he would be a fearsome prospect. Spurs certainly have quantity in attack, with Crouch, Defoe, Pavlyuchenko and Robbie Keane all competing for 1 or 2 starting spots.
Verdict: The squad would appear to be there for Spurs to finish in the top half.
Shifty's Season Preview Part 7
Manchester United
Going into last Sunday's Community Shield, there were doubts over how Manchester United would cope without Cristiano Ronaldo. Those doubts lasted approximately 9 minutes, at which point Nani cut in from the left wing and smashed a shot past Petr Cech and into the far corner of the net.
United will be targeting a 4th consecutive Premier League title, but much more importantly, a 19th title overall, which would move them ahead of Liverpool on 18, which would well and truly knock them off their (expletive) perch. It's been an interesting summer in terms of transfers for United: the departures of Ronaldo and Tevez were inevitable, so the question was always going to be about replacements. In have come Antonio Valencia (who may not offer the direct goal threat of Ronaldo, but will offer incision and industry on the right wing), Gabriel Obertan (one for the future) and Michael Owen (who better to have to come on should a goal be required), but perhaps more intriguingly it looks like Sir Alex Ferguson has moved from last season's 4-3-3 to a more traditional 4-4-2, with The Boy Rooney set to operate in the number 10 role alongside Dimitar Berbatov, Owen or Kiko Macheda. Defensively, United's have arguably the 2 best central defenders in the league in Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic (one could even make a case for Jonny Evans joining them as the 3 best in the league), and expect Ben Foster to be gradually phased in as 1st choice goalkeeper.
Verdict: They sing a song entitled "Pride of all Europe" at Old Trafford, a crown that, along with a 19th Premier League title, they have every reason to believe they can claim
Going into last Sunday's Community Shield, there were doubts over how Manchester United would cope without Cristiano Ronaldo. Those doubts lasted approximately 9 minutes, at which point Nani cut in from the left wing and smashed a shot past Petr Cech and into the far corner of the net.
United will be targeting a 4th consecutive Premier League title, but much more importantly, a 19th title overall, which would move them ahead of Liverpool on 18, which would well and truly knock them off their (expletive) perch. It's been an interesting summer in terms of transfers for United: the departures of Ronaldo and Tevez were inevitable, so the question was always going to be about replacements. In have come Antonio Valencia (who may not offer the direct goal threat of Ronaldo, but will offer incision and industry on the right wing), Gabriel Obertan (one for the future) and Michael Owen (who better to have to come on should a goal be required), but perhaps more intriguingly it looks like Sir Alex Ferguson has moved from last season's 4-3-3 to a more traditional 4-4-2, with The Boy Rooney set to operate in the number 10 role alongside Dimitar Berbatov, Owen or Kiko Macheda. Defensively, United's have arguably the 2 best central defenders in the league in Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic (one could even make a case for Jonny Evans joining them as the 3 best in the league), and expect Ben Foster to be gradually phased in as 1st choice goalkeeper.
Verdict: They sing a song entitled "Pride of all Europe" at Old Trafford, a crown that, along with a 19th Premier League title, they have every reason to believe they can claim
Shifty's Season Preview I think I'm on Part 6 now
man citeh al-magoo
The Citizens (that's their official nickname, and the only one publishable on this site) have spent money as if it was going out of fashion (and, let's face it: it kind of is) this summer; securing the signatures of Barry, Tevez, Adebayor, Toure, Santa Cruz and others beside, although they have been frustrated in their efforts to sign Joleon Lescott, and their bid for the Death Star looks likely to fail. Add these new signings to last season's acquisitions, and the Bitters look like they have a squad as strong as any in the league. However, it remains to be seen how quickly they can settle down into a coherent system, and how long it will take the players to learn each other's names. Mark Hughes also faces a tough task keeping all of his strikers happy (this writer is assuming that citeh are not going to line up for their opening game at Blackburn in a 1-2-7 formation).
Verdict: If Hughes gets the time to set his team up the way he wants, and can keep all his players happy, then anywhere from 7th upwards this season should be considered a success, with foundations being laid for a top 4 challenge in future seasons.
The Citizens (that's their official nickname, and the only one publishable on this site) have spent money as if it was going out of fashion (and, let's face it: it kind of is) this summer; securing the signatures of Barry, Tevez, Adebayor, Toure, Santa Cruz and others beside, although they have been frustrated in their efforts to sign Joleon Lescott, and their bid for the Death Star looks likely to fail. Add these new signings to last season's acquisitions, and the Bitters look like they have a squad as strong as any in the league. However, it remains to be seen how quickly they can settle down into a coherent system, and how long it will take the players to learn each other's names. Mark Hughes also faces a tough task keeping all of his strikers happy (this writer is assuming that citeh are not going to line up for their opening game at Blackburn in a 1-2-7 formation).
Verdict: If Hughes gets the time to set his team up the way he wants, and can keep all his players happy, then anywhere from 7th upwards this season should be considered a success, with foundations being laid for a top 4 challenge in future seasons.
Shifty's Season Preview Part 5 of I'd better not waste any more time coming up with fancy titles
Liverpool
There is an over-riding feeling that last season, given the relative struggles of the rest of the top 4, represented the scouser's best chance to win the title in the 3 points for a win era. And they blew it. Now, with the departure of Xabi Alonso (their best central midfielder), they may well struggle to get close to the title again. Of their 2 new signings, Alberto Aquilani is unlikely to be fit before university Freshers Weeks, and Glen Johnson, while he will no doubt be more adventurous than the now-departed Alvaro Arbeloa, doubts remain over his defensive capabilities. Moving along the back 4, Sami Hyypia has departed without a replacement having been brought in (is benitez really about to put his faith in a youngster should injuries affect his best 2 centre-backs, Agger and Skrtel?) and, with Fabio Aurelio injured, Andrea Dossena is set to start the season at left-back. Enough said. There are doubts over the strength in depth in attack as well: Can Voronin, N'Gog, El Zhar and co really step up to the plate if required?
Verdict: With everyone fit for the whole season, they could challenge again. But, should injuries affect their 2 main players, they may find themselves losing touch with the lead
There is an over-riding feeling that last season, given the relative struggles of the rest of the top 4, represented the scouser's best chance to win the title in the 3 points for a win era. And they blew it. Now, with the departure of Xabi Alonso (their best central midfielder), they may well struggle to get close to the title again. Of their 2 new signings, Alberto Aquilani is unlikely to be fit before university Freshers Weeks, and Glen Johnson, while he will no doubt be more adventurous than the now-departed Alvaro Arbeloa, doubts remain over his defensive capabilities. Moving along the back 4, Sami Hyypia has departed without a replacement having been brought in (is benitez really about to put his faith in a youngster should injuries affect his best 2 centre-backs, Agger and Skrtel?) and, with Fabio Aurelio injured, Andrea Dossena is set to start the season at left-back. Enough said. There are doubts over the strength in depth in attack as well: Can Voronin, N'Gog, El Zhar and co really step up to the plate if required?
Verdict: With everyone fit for the whole season, they could challenge again. But, should injuries affect their 2 main players, they may find themselves losing touch with the lead
Friday 14 August 2009
Shifty's Season Preview Part 4 of oh jeebus I'm pushing it to have them all on by Saturday afternoon
Everton
Last season was Everton's strongest for many years: 5th place, reaching the FA Cup Final and bloodying the noses of all those above them. David Moyes' stock grows with each passing day, and one cannot help but admire his steely resolution in his desire to keep Joleon Lescott. The retention of Lescott, along with all their other key players, give Evertonians reason to believe they can compete near the top again. Hope will still remain that Moyes can add to his squad in terms of quantity: it will be intriguing to see just how well Everton perform in the Europa League this season: European success is the last box that Moyes needs to check if he is to be considered as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor, a role that many have tipped him for.
Verdict: Last season, Everton keeper Tim Howard set a club record 15 league clean sheets. Retaining their key players should give them a platform to build on this, however (I had to put a however in somewhere) one cannot help but feel that they will struggle to match last season's achievements without 1 or 2 additions, particularly upfront: Jo looks a shrewd addition in loan, but will Saha and Yakubu stay fit? They should be close to last season's 5th place finish
The Fulham Football Club
It's hard to think of anyone who actually dislikes this quaint, tidy club. Last season they were superb, qualifying for the Europa League (in which they have already comfortably dispatched Lithuanian side FK Vetra) as a result of finishing 7th. Crucial to their hopes will be maintaining last season's excellent defensive record, and crucial to this will be the retention of 18ft 7 centre-back Brede Hangeland. A lot will again be expected of keeper Mark Schwarzer, while the likes of Clint Dempsey, Andrew Johnson and Danny Murhph will be expected to source and score goals, while Bobby Zamora simply has to improve on last season's meagre tally of 2 league goals. Reinforcements have arrived in the forms of right-back Stephen Kelly and midfielders Bjorn Helge Riise and Kagiso Dikgacoi (I'm going to award myself a Gold Star for spelling that right) (at the time of writing, Damien Duff was mooted as a possible arrival), but one suspects that 1 or 2 more may be needed if Fulham are going to be able to compete in the Premier League and the Europa League.
Verdict: This writer's gut instinct says mid-table obscurity. Retaining Hangeland is critical to their hopes, but they will face even more intense competition to make last season's 7th place
Hull City are still in the Premier League. No, really
Despite a horrific 2nd half of season nosedive that a drunken pilot would be disappointed with, Hull City somehow kept themselves in the Premier League. Phil Brown will be acutely aware of his side's desperate need for improvement, given that he does not want to go home. "This is the best trip I've ever been on", he says. Quite.
The Tigers have made a few interesting signings: it will be fascinating to see how US international striker Jozy Altidore adapts to life in the Premier League: fast, strong, and with a powerful shot, he could be tailor made for the Premier League, once he gets over the language barrier between English and East Yorkshire. Stoke midfielder Seyi Olofinjana will offer bite in midfield, and slightly more mobility than George Boateng, while expect Stephen Hunt to furiously buzz around on the wing. Hull could probably still do with a right-back, though, given the departure of Sam Ricketts. The early season fixture list has been kind to Hull, with many winnable games in the opening weeks (remember, they were the only side last season to remain unbeaten from trips to Stamford Bridge, a field and the Emirares). They will need to start in a similar manner to last season if they are to survive.
Verdict: Phil Brown divides opinion unlike most other Premier League managers. While he is idolised on Humberside, so is the Greek god Poseidon, with local teenage girls regularly sacrificing their 1st born child to him. Others are sceptical of Brown, complaining about his lack of charisma and control over the econo...oh, wait a minute, wrong Brown. Phil Brown will need to demonstrate all his managerial skills (maybe put in a call to his mate Sir Alex, Fraizer Campbell and Manucho have both impressed on loan in the past) in order to keep the Tigers roaring in the Premier League. And he might just do it.
Last season was Everton's strongest for many years: 5th place, reaching the FA Cup Final and bloodying the noses of all those above them. David Moyes' stock grows with each passing day, and one cannot help but admire his steely resolution in his desire to keep Joleon Lescott. The retention of Lescott, along with all their other key players, give Evertonians reason to believe they can compete near the top again. Hope will still remain that Moyes can add to his squad in terms of quantity: it will be intriguing to see just how well Everton perform in the Europa League this season: European success is the last box that Moyes needs to check if he is to be considered as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor, a role that many have tipped him for.
Verdict: Last season, Everton keeper Tim Howard set a club record 15 league clean sheets. Retaining their key players should give them a platform to build on this, however (I had to put a however in somewhere) one cannot help but feel that they will struggle to match last season's achievements without 1 or 2 additions, particularly upfront: Jo looks a shrewd addition in loan, but will Saha and Yakubu stay fit? They should be close to last season's 5th place finish
The Fulham Football Club
It's hard to think of anyone who actually dislikes this quaint, tidy club. Last season they were superb, qualifying for the Europa League (in which they have already comfortably dispatched Lithuanian side FK Vetra) as a result of finishing 7th. Crucial to their hopes will be maintaining last season's excellent defensive record, and crucial to this will be the retention of 18ft 7 centre-back Brede Hangeland. A lot will again be expected of keeper Mark Schwarzer, while the likes of Clint Dempsey, Andrew Johnson and Danny Murhph will be expected to source and score goals, while Bobby Zamora simply has to improve on last season's meagre tally of 2 league goals. Reinforcements have arrived in the forms of right-back Stephen Kelly and midfielders Bjorn Helge Riise and Kagiso Dikgacoi (I'm going to award myself a Gold Star for spelling that right) (at the time of writing, Damien Duff was mooted as a possible arrival), but one suspects that 1 or 2 more may be needed if Fulham are going to be able to compete in the Premier League and the Europa League.
Verdict: This writer's gut instinct says mid-table obscurity. Retaining Hangeland is critical to their hopes, but they will face even more intense competition to make last season's 7th place
Hull City are still in the Premier League. No, really
Despite a horrific 2nd half of season nosedive that a drunken pilot would be disappointed with, Hull City somehow kept themselves in the Premier League. Phil Brown will be acutely aware of his side's desperate need for improvement, given that he does not want to go home. "This is the best trip I've ever been on", he says. Quite.
The Tigers have made a few interesting signings: it will be fascinating to see how US international striker Jozy Altidore adapts to life in the Premier League: fast, strong, and with a powerful shot, he could be tailor made for the Premier League, once he gets over the language barrier between English and East Yorkshire. Stoke midfielder Seyi Olofinjana will offer bite in midfield, and slightly more mobility than George Boateng, while expect Stephen Hunt to furiously buzz around on the wing. Hull could probably still do with a right-back, though, given the departure of Sam Ricketts. The early season fixture list has been kind to Hull, with many winnable games in the opening weeks (remember, they were the only side last season to remain unbeaten from trips to Stamford Bridge, a field and the Emirares). They will need to start in a similar manner to last season if they are to survive.
Verdict: Phil Brown divides opinion unlike most other Premier League managers. While he is idolised on Humberside, so is the Greek god Poseidon, with local teenage girls regularly sacrificing their 1st born child to him. Others are sceptical of Brown, complaining about his lack of charisma and control over the econo...oh, wait a minute, wrong Brown. Phil Brown will need to demonstrate all his managerial skills (maybe put in a call to his mate Sir Alex, Fraizer Campbell and Manucho have both impressed on loan in the past) in order to keep the Tigers roaring in the Premier League. And he might just do it.
Shifty's Season Preview Part 3
Bolton Wanderers
Not entirely different from their Lancashire rivals, last season Bolton were solid, pragmatic, not the prettiest but effective to an extent. It would be wrong to say that Gary Megson divides opinion among Bolton fans: they all hate him. Their style has not evolved from the Sam Allardyce era, yet they have slid down the table. While they should be safe from relegation this season, it's hard to see them making any serious challenge for a top 10 place. However, they have made a couple of decent acquisitions: Sean Davies and Zat Knight are both established Premier League performers, while Paul Robinson and Sam Ricketts both gained praise for their performances as full-backs in what were otherwise hopeless defences last season at West Brom and Hull respectively.
Verdict: The Trotters look set to continue trotting along somewhere between mid-table and 17th. Their only hope of success would appear to be a decent cup run, but given Megson's disdain for the cup competitions last season, this seems unlikely. Ho hum
Burnley are a Premier League team. No, really
Unlike Alan Shearer, one can proclaim Owen Coyle as the messiah without some halfwit immediately correcting you and instead declaring him a very naughty boy. His work on a limited budget and small squad (2 of whom being Steve Caldwell and Graham Alexander, and Brian Jensen is anything but small) could be compared to making however many loaves of bread and fresh haddock being distributed among 5,000. This summer Burnley have adopted a transfer policy seemingly based around recriuting young, talented players with the energy to compliment the guile of the likes of Robbie Blake and industry of Wade Elliott. Last season's cup runs show that Burnley will have nothing to fear against many of the Premier League, and any side who go to Turf Moor not fully on their game can expect to be turned over by a side that will no doubt be backed by a fervent home support, who may well have taken a layer of skin off their hands by now, through constantly rubbing them with glee at the fixture list, which gives them a first home game against Manchester United.
Verdict: On paper, they could really struggle. But then again, we all said that this time last year about Hull and Stoke. A lot will depend not on how their younger players, such as Steven Fletcher, Chris Eagles, Martin Paterson and Brian Easton, adapt, but whether or not the veterans of last season's epic campaign can withstand the rigours of the Premier League. In terms of betting, their games could well be among the most open, high-scoring, in the league. Keep an eye on that over 2.5 goals figure for their games.
CSKA London
Another new season, another new era at Chelsea. This time, Carlo Ancelotti is the man in charge, and while the playing squad has not undergone much revision, expect to see a different style from Ancelotti's side. Gone is the 4-5-1/4-3-3 of Scolari and Hiddink, set to be replaced by a 4-4-2 diamond. How they adapt this style for the Premier League and the Chelsea players will be intriguing to watch, especially considering that, under Ancelotti, AC Milan played this system at about 3mph. Of the 3 new signings, Yuri Zhirkov and Daniel Sturridge look well-equipped to shine when called upon, while this writer wants to find out who Ross Turnbull's agent is. Defensively, any more mistakes and questions will have to be asked about Petr Cech's condition, while Ricardo Carvalho's likely retention is key to their chances. Right-back could be a concern, though: Ancelotti appears not to be totally convinced by the defensive qualities of Jose Bosingwa, while Branislav Ivanovic was completely done by Nani in last weekend's Community Shield.
Verdict: The fixture list is reasonbly kind to Chelsea at the start of the season, and so they can be expected to be near the top early on. It remains to be seen, though, how they will cope without their African contingent when January comes. Expect either the Premier League title, the Champions League title, or Ancelotti to be sacked
Not entirely different from their Lancashire rivals, last season Bolton were solid, pragmatic, not the prettiest but effective to an extent. It would be wrong to say that Gary Megson divides opinion among Bolton fans: they all hate him. Their style has not evolved from the Sam Allardyce era, yet they have slid down the table. While they should be safe from relegation this season, it's hard to see them making any serious challenge for a top 10 place. However, they have made a couple of decent acquisitions: Sean Davies and Zat Knight are both established Premier League performers, while Paul Robinson and Sam Ricketts both gained praise for their performances as full-backs in what were otherwise hopeless defences last season at West Brom and Hull respectively.
Verdict: The Trotters look set to continue trotting along somewhere between mid-table and 17th. Their only hope of success would appear to be a decent cup run, but given Megson's disdain for the cup competitions last season, this seems unlikely. Ho hum
Burnley are a Premier League team. No, really
Unlike Alan Shearer, one can proclaim Owen Coyle as the messiah without some halfwit immediately correcting you and instead declaring him a very naughty boy. His work on a limited budget and small squad (2 of whom being Steve Caldwell and Graham Alexander, and Brian Jensen is anything but small) could be compared to making however many loaves of bread and fresh haddock being distributed among 5,000. This summer Burnley have adopted a transfer policy seemingly based around recriuting young, talented players with the energy to compliment the guile of the likes of Robbie Blake and industry of Wade Elliott. Last season's cup runs show that Burnley will have nothing to fear against many of the Premier League, and any side who go to Turf Moor not fully on their game can expect to be turned over by a side that will no doubt be backed by a fervent home support, who may well have taken a layer of skin off their hands by now, through constantly rubbing them with glee at the fixture list, which gives them a first home game against Manchester United.
Verdict: On paper, they could really struggle. But then again, we all said that this time last year about Hull and Stoke. A lot will depend not on how their younger players, such as Steven Fletcher, Chris Eagles, Martin Paterson and Brian Easton, adapt, but whether or not the veterans of last season's epic campaign can withstand the rigours of the Premier League. In terms of betting, their games could well be among the most open, high-scoring, in the league. Keep an eye on that over 2.5 goals figure for their games.
CSKA London
Another new season, another new era at Chelsea. This time, Carlo Ancelotti is the man in charge, and while the playing squad has not undergone much revision, expect to see a different style from Ancelotti's side. Gone is the 4-5-1/4-3-3 of Scolari and Hiddink, set to be replaced by a 4-4-2 diamond. How they adapt this style for the Premier League and the Chelsea players will be intriguing to watch, especially considering that, under Ancelotti, AC Milan played this system at about 3mph. Of the 3 new signings, Yuri Zhirkov and Daniel Sturridge look well-equipped to shine when called upon, while this writer wants to find out who Ross Turnbull's agent is. Defensively, any more mistakes and questions will have to be asked about Petr Cech's condition, while Ricardo Carvalho's likely retention is key to their chances. Right-back could be a concern, though: Ancelotti appears not to be totally convinced by the defensive qualities of Jose Bosingwa, while Branislav Ivanovic was completely done by Nani in last weekend's Community Shield.
Verdict: The fixture list is reasonbly kind to Chelsea at the start of the season, and so they can be expected to be near the top early on. It remains to be seen, though, how they will cope without their African contingent when January comes. Expect either the Premier League title, the Champions League title, or Ancelotti to be sacked
Shifty's Season Preview Part 2 of This is going to take a while
Birmingham City
If their Championship campaign last season is anything to go by, then Birmingham will probably be one of the most binary teams in the league this season (as any computer geek will tell you, binary is a computing language consisting entirely of 1s and 0s): expect Alex Mcleish's side to be dour and unambitious yet resolute and organised. Up top, their front line will consist of sometimes 2, but more likely 1, from James Mcfadden, Kevin Phillips, new signing Christan Benitez, Garry O'Connor, Cameron Jerome and Marcus Bent: with the exception of the ageing Phillips, none of these men have ever been prolific in the Premier League, and with a lack of mobility and quality in the midfield, staffed by the likes of Lee Carsley, Damien Johnson and Barry Ferguson, they are unlikely to get the quality of service required to change that. Still, defensively they were very strong last season, and new keeper Joe Hart will be eager to claim a place at the 2010 World Cup, should the english qualify.
Verdict: A lot will depend on how the plethora of new centre-backs at St Andrews (Scott Dann, Roger Johnson and Geovanny Espinoza, along with left-back Gregory Vignal) adapt to the Premier League. If they quickly settle in, and the Brummies keep a few clean sheets, then they look best placed of the newly-promoted sides to stay up. If one can find them above evens to stay up, then take it
Blackburn Rovers
It's debatable whether Blackburn avoided relegation last season because of miracle-working by Sam Allardyce, or simply due to the fact that the teams who finished below them were simply awful. This writer is tempted to disagree with Allardyce and conclude that it was the latter. With this in mind, Rovers have seeked to strengthen an already solid rearguard with the permanent signing of Frenchman Gael Givet, as well as adding Dane Lars Jacobsen at right-back. The retention of left-back cum midfielder Stephen Warnock is crucial to Rovers hopes this season. Young French midfielder Stephen N'Znozi has also featured prominently in pre-season, and will be looking to compete with the likes of David Dunn and Stephen Reid to fill the Tugay-shaped hole in the Rovers midfield. Much will be expected of the mercurial Morten Gamst Pedersen on the left wing this season. Up front, Allardyce has inevitably lost Roque Santa Cruz to man citeh-al-magoo, and has reinvested a sizeable chunk of his transfer fee in Croatian forward Nikola Kalinic, for a figure that varies between £6 million and £12 million, depending on which newspaper you read, with Franco di Santo also joining on loan from CSKA London, thereby negating the need for the comedy show that was Christoper Samba in attack.
Verdict: Rovers didn't lose many games last season under Allardyce: expect this to continue, as Rovers contine to play something of a "pragmatic" style. Incidentally, they've been bottom of the league's disciplinary table for 4 of the last 5 seasons, and, as already mentioned in previous posts, this writer would advise you put money on them to "achieve" this again, especially given that Kiwi Ryan Nelsen, who may or may not strangle sheep in his spare time, has been retained. If they can find a regular source of goals, then mid-table should beckon.
Next update to follow at lunchtime
If their Championship campaign last season is anything to go by, then Birmingham will probably be one of the most binary teams in the league this season (as any computer geek will tell you, binary is a computing language consisting entirely of 1s and 0s): expect Alex Mcleish's side to be dour and unambitious yet resolute and organised. Up top, their front line will consist of sometimes 2, but more likely 1, from James Mcfadden, Kevin Phillips, new signing Christan Benitez, Garry O'Connor, Cameron Jerome and Marcus Bent: with the exception of the ageing Phillips, none of these men have ever been prolific in the Premier League, and with a lack of mobility and quality in the midfield, staffed by the likes of Lee Carsley, Damien Johnson and Barry Ferguson, they are unlikely to get the quality of service required to change that. Still, defensively they were very strong last season, and new keeper Joe Hart will be eager to claim a place at the 2010 World Cup, should the english qualify.
Verdict: A lot will depend on how the plethora of new centre-backs at St Andrews (Scott Dann, Roger Johnson and Geovanny Espinoza, along with left-back Gregory Vignal) adapt to the Premier League. If they quickly settle in, and the Brummies keep a few clean sheets, then they look best placed of the newly-promoted sides to stay up. If one can find them above evens to stay up, then take it
Blackburn Rovers
It's debatable whether Blackburn avoided relegation last season because of miracle-working by Sam Allardyce, or simply due to the fact that the teams who finished below them were simply awful. This writer is tempted to disagree with Allardyce and conclude that it was the latter. With this in mind, Rovers have seeked to strengthen an already solid rearguard with the permanent signing of Frenchman Gael Givet, as well as adding Dane Lars Jacobsen at right-back. The retention of left-back cum midfielder Stephen Warnock is crucial to Rovers hopes this season. Young French midfielder Stephen N'Znozi has also featured prominently in pre-season, and will be looking to compete with the likes of David Dunn and Stephen Reid to fill the Tugay-shaped hole in the Rovers midfield. Much will be expected of the mercurial Morten Gamst Pedersen on the left wing this season. Up front, Allardyce has inevitably lost Roque Santa Cruz to man citeh-al-magoo, and has reinvested a sizeable chunk of his transfer fee in Croatian forward Nikola Kalinic, for a figure that varies between £6 million and £12 million, depending on which newspaper you read, with Franco di Santo also joining on loan from CSKA London, thereby negating the need for the comedy show that was Christoper Samba in attack.
Verdict: Rovers didn't lose many games last season under Allardyce: expect this to continue, as Rovers contine to play something of a "pragmatic" style. Incidentally, they've been bottom of the league's disciplinary table for 4 of the last 5 seasons, and, as already mentioned in previous posts, this writer would advise you put money on them to "achieve" this again, especially given that Kiwi Ryan Nelsen, who may or may not strangle sheep in his spare time, has been retained. If they can find a regular source of goals, then mid-table should beckon.
Next update to follow at lunchtime
Thursday 13 August 2009
Shifty's Mega Season Preview Part 1 of however many it takes
Well, well, well, folks, it's season preview time!
With the Premier Leagues in the UK kicking off this weekend (although how "Premier" a leage can be considered with Burnley in it is a point for debate), this writer is going to sum up the chances (and give some betting tips) for the season ahead. So, in no particular order, here are my thoughts on the teams:
Arshavin (i.e. Arsenal)
They've been here before: Key, experienced players leaving, with Arsene Wenger deciding to trust young talent over spending megabucks on established players. How is it different this time, you ask? Well, Wenger looks set to change his side's shape this season to a more fluid (apparently it's possible) 4-3-3, with a front line consisting of any 3 from the rejuvenated (and fully fit again) Eduardo, the brilliant Arshavin, van Persie, the rapid Walcott, young Vela and even younger Wilshere. They also have Nicklas Bendtner. Defensively, Kolo Toure has departed, with Belgian international centre-back Thomas Vermaelen joining from Ajax. Manuel Almunia has firmly established himself as 1st choice, while Bacary Sagna impressed in his first season. Expect Cesc Fabregas to be on form again, dictating, pushing on, and numerous other things besides. The anticipated return from injury of Tomas Rosicky will add another option in midfield.
Verdict: They could go either way from last season's 4th place. They undoubtedly have goals in them from a very talented set of forwards, who should all revel as part of a front 3. A lot will depend on how new signing Vermaelen settles into defence. If luck is on their side, they could come very close to the title.
Aston Villa
Manchester United weren't the only team whose season was turned last time out by the intervention of Federico Macheda: after going down 3-2 at Old Trafford, Villa struggled badly, and ended the season with something of a whimper. Thus far, their transfer dealings have been unconvincing to say the least: while Gareth Barry's departure was to be expected, Villa have yet to see him properly replaced, the arrivals of Stewart Downing (out injured until December, and even then his position of left-midfield is firmly occupied by Ashley Young) and Fabian Delph (who is still a teenager, and thus cannot be expected to perform twice a week for 10 months in the exemplary manner Barry did) notwithstanding. The retirement of Martin Laursen is a blow, exacerbated by the departure of Zat Knight to Bolton. The arrival of Habib Beye gives Villa another option at right-back, but they are still weak in the centre: a lot will be asked of Curtis Davies. But perhaps the more worrying outcome of their game at Old Trafford last season was the discovery that Villa are in actual fact a rather limited side, with a somewhat primitive plan A of long balls for the height of Carew or Heskey to knock down for the quickslilver Agbonlahor, and no plan B. Added to this a possibly extensive (if not extensive, then most likely morale-shattering) Europa League campaign, and this could be (assuming they don't bring in some real quality between now and September 1) a long, hard, and ultimately disappointing season for Villa.
Verdict: Without a new central midfield, and reinforcements in attack and at central defence, Villa could slide down the table, especially considering the improvements made by some teams who finished below them. They are 40/1 to be relegated. Think about it
With the Premier Leagues in the UK kicking off this weekend (although how "Premier" a leage can be considered with Burnley in it is a point for debate), this writer is going to sum up the chances (and give some betting tips) for the season ahead. So, in no particular order, here are my thoughts on the teams:
Arshavin (i.e. Arsenal)
They've been here before: Key, experienced players leaving, with Arsene Wenger deciding to trust young talent over spending megabucks on established players. How is it different this time, you ask? Well, Wenger looks set to change his side's shape this season to a more fluid (apparently it's possible) 4-3-3, with a front line consisting of any 3 from the rejuvenated (and fully fit again) Eduardo, the brilliant Arshavin, van Persie, the rapid Walcott, young Vela and even younger Wilshere. They also have Nicklas Bendtner. Defensively, Kolo Toure has departed, with Belgian international centre-back Thomas Vermaelen joining from Ajax. Manuel Almunia has firmly established himself as 1st choice, while Bacary Sagna impressed in his first season. Expect Cesc Fabregas to be on form again, dictating, pushing on, and numerous other things besides. The anticipated return from injury of Tomas Rosicky will add another option in midfield.
Verdict: They could go either way from last season's 4th place. They undoubtedly have goals in them from a very talented set of forwards, who should all revel as part of a front 3. A lot will depend on how new signing Vermaelen settles into defence. If luck is on their side, they could come very close to the title.
Aston Villa
Manchester United weren't the only team whose season was turned last time out by the intervention of Federico Macheda: after going down 3-2 at Old Trafford, Villa struggled badly, and ended the season with something of a whimper. Thus far, their transfer dealings have been unconvincing to say the least: while Gareth Barry's departure was to be expected, Villa have yet to see him properly replaced, the arrivals of Stewart Downing (out injured until December, and even then his position of left-midfield is firmly occupied by Ashley Young) and Fabian Delph (who is still a teenager, and thus cannot be expected to perform twice a week for 10 months in the exemplary manner Barry did) notwithstanding. The retirement of Martin Laursen is a blow, exacerbated by the departure of Zat Knight to Bolton. The arrival of Habib Beye gives Villa another option at right-back, but they are still weak in the centre: a lot will be asked of Curtis Davies. But perhaps the more worrying outcome of their game at Old Trafford last season was the discovery that Villa are in actual fact a rather limited side, with a somewhat primitive plan A of long balls for the height of Carew or Heskey to knock down for the quickslilver Agbonlahor, and no plan B. Added to this a possibly extensive (if not extensive, then most likely morale-shattering) Europa League campaign, and this could be (assuming they don't bring in some real quality between now and September 1) a long, hard, and ultimately disappointing season for Villa.
Verdict: Without a new central midfield, and reinforcements in attack and at central defence, Villa could slide down the table, especially considering the improvements made by some teams who finished below them. They are 40/1 to be relegated. Think about it
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