THE INS AND OUT: MANCHESTER CITY AND LIVERPOOL.

WHO SHOULD LIVERPOOL AND CITY BRING IN AND GET RID OFF TO CHALLENGE NEXT SEASON?

Both Liverpool and Manchester City had rather subdued campaigns, mostly Liverpool. Going from the highs of the Suarez era that saw the Reds finish 2nd to a miserable 6th place finish really sums it up. For City, inconsistency and poor results away from home was their undoing.

Both sides will definitely strengthen, but will they get their signings right? Brendan Rodgers will definitely be more cautious as he digs into the transfer market as a majority of his signings last summer were below average. Pellegrini will be looking to do away with dead wood and invite some fresh young talent into an aging City line up.

So who should both teams be looking at and who should they get rid of?

MANCHESTER CITY

Manuel Pellegrini has a lot of work to do in the transfer window. His aging squad need some fresh young blood and a replacement for the departing Yaya Toure who to be fair has looked a shadow of the player he was the previous seasons.

City's problem area is their backline, when Vincent Kompany is out or playing when not fully fit as he did against Manchester United, City struggle badly. Eliaquim Mangala has been disappointing, once the most talked about upcoming stars in his time at Porto now looks like a defender who can't tell his right from left. Martin Demichelis is aging and getting slower. The midfield looks good but with the departure of Toure, a replacement is needed, Fernando or Fernandinho are far away from being the dominant force Toure is. The forward line is fantastic, with Aguero, Bony, Dzeko, Jovetic and the returning Negredo all options.

Ins;

Mats Hummels/ Nicolas Otamendi/ Benedikt Howedes - All these three options should be a major upgrade to Mangala, no offense. Pellegrini should try get two central defenders in this summer. Hummels looks to be the defender on demand this summer with a host of English clubs after the German and with City's financial power they would definitely be top dogs in securing his signature.

Marco Reus - Jesus Navas and Samir Nasri haven't really sparkled this season, although I like Nasri, I think his time at Manchester is coming to an end. Lack of game time doesn't go down well with the French man. Pellegrini should attempt a player plus cash deal for Reus, Nasri/Navas plus about 15million pounds may land him the German international.

Isco -  David Silva needs some competition for his place, and Isco looks a fine option to push Silva all the way. City at the moment lack creative midfielders with Silva the only one capable of shredding the ball through the hole of a needle 9/10 times of asking. Isco can be a back up or even a starter.

Moussa Sissoko - Who better to replace Yaya Toure than Sissoko. He's big, powerful, fast and is able to produce a Yaya Toure esque wrecking ball run if called upon. Sissoko's talent is at waste in Newcastle, it's about time he moved to a top 4 side.

Outs;

Martin Demichelis - His age is the main reason City have to do away with him and clear up some space in the roster and be in terms with the FFP rules.  

Yaya Toure -  The Ivorian has already made it clear he'll be leaving the Etihad this summer with Inter Milan chasing for his signature. His last campaign wasn't as spectacular as his previous seasons in the sky blue shirt. The city fans will definitely miss him.

Samir Nasri/ Jesus Navas - Navas hasn't really caught my eye at all this season and even in his past seasons with Sevilla. He is too predictable and doesn't have the trickery to go past players, his pace is a plus though. Nasri is great on his day but with lack of matches you wonder if he'll ever rekindle the form he had in Arsenal. Swap deal for Reus.

Stefan Jovetic/ Negredo/ Edin Dzeko - One of these three will definitely be seeing the exit door at the Etihad. Negredo most likely but I would totally disagree with that because he was exceptional before he got his injury prior to the World Cup. Jovetic in my opinion should be let to leave, lack of game time and his form isn't what it was when he was in Italy.

Probable Line up

4-2-3-1

Hart; Zabaleta, Kompany, Hummels, Kolarov; Fernando, Isco; Reus, Sissoko, Silva; Aguero.

Bench: Cabalero, Mangala, Otamendi, Fernandinho, Milner, Bony, Dzeko.

Squad Rating out of 10: 7.9


LIVERPOOL

 

The Reds have probably had the worst campaign from the top clubs. Much was expected from them after Suarez had guided them to a 2nd place finish the season before, but with the departure of the Uruguayan came the downfall of the Mersyside giants. A disappointing 6th place was all they could manage.

Brendan Rodgers should be the man to blame really, with all the money he got from the Suarez sale he decided to buy 6 or 7 mediocre players, not being harsh but that is what they are. He'll be looking to avoid the same mistake this time but with Liverpool not in the Champions League, you feel he'll have to settle for mediocre players once again.

The whole Liverpool squad needs a makeover from the defense all the way to the forward line and back to the bench. Only Henderson, Coutinho and Sturridge are confirmed starters.

Ins;

Benedikt Howedes/ Neven Subotic/ Ashley Williams - To be honest, Liverpool won't attract big names such as Mats Hummels so they'll have to settle for defenders in a lower tier. Howedes may be an interesting option but if any of the bigger clubs go for him then Liverpool will have to look elsewhere. Subotic is a decent defender and definitely better than what Liverpool have now but he tends to be rush at times and prone to error. Ashley Williams won't be an upgrade but an assurance buy. Rodgers should do all he can to snap Howedes.

Ilkay Gundogan - Rodgers should act quick with this, Dortmund had a terrible season and with Lopp leaving, trust a few big names will follow suit. Gundogan can give that Liverpool midfield a bit of spice and creativity that they awfully lack. With Manchester United and Arsenal rumored to be interested, it won't be easy for Rodgers.

Christoph Kramer - Liverpool lack a proper holding midfielder, in Kramer they get an World Cup winner with Germany and a player who has helped his current side Borussia Monchengladbach qualify for the Champions League. With Lucas far from his better days, this would be a good buy for the reds.

Julian Draxler - With Sterling nearing an exit from Anfiled if all the rumors are to be believed, Rodgers should use money from the Sterling sale wisely, Draxler is young and immensely talented and would fill that gap with ease. Rodgers should just hope Wenger isn't after the German.

Jackson Martinez/Christian Benteke/Danny Ings/Charlie Austin - The Reds are in need of a striker, with Sturridge constantly out and Balotelli hopeless infront of goal, two additions from the options would do Liverpool good. Unfortunately, Martinez is also been watched by Arsenal so that may be a tough one to crack for Rodgers and Benteke is been watched by a host of clubs bigger than Liverpool, so count that out as well. Ings and Austin both in for Liverpool would be job well done by Rodgers. They have both proven they can match up to the Premier League and are both goal scorers.


Outs;

Kolo Toure - He'll most probably be one of the players leaving this summer with no surprise at all. He's not played a whole lot and age isn't on his side either.

Glen Johnson - Lack of playing time coupled with niggling injuries here and there has seen him lose his spot in the side and probably his name on the Liverpool roster. He's served them well but his time is up at Anfield.

Jose Enrique - Another player who has seen injuries and lack of game time lose his spot on the team. I can't remember seeing Enrique make an appearance for Liverpool this season.

Joe Allen - Allen is a mediocre player and doesn't deserve to be playing every single week in a team of Liverpool's size. That just tells you how weak the squad depth is at Anfield. Allen should be sold as he is a waste of space and just not good enough.

Lucas Leiva - Once upon a time Lucas was hailed as one of the best defensive midfielders in England, now he doesn't even make the top 10 to be honest. He's been in and out of the team and Rodgers should cash in on him.

Mario Balotelli - Everything just went wrong for Super Mario this season. He didn't look the player that left City a while ago, he was completely horrendous. If Rodgers can get a buyer well and good, Balotelli needs to leave and probably return to Inter who are under Mancinc. He seems to play his best football under the Italian.

Rickie Lambert - I never really understood why Liverpool signed Lambert but all I know is that they should let go of him.

Fabio Borini -  Borini hasn't had much game time, but I feel he can produce moments of magic. He is wasting himself in Liverpool and should move to a lesser side, the likes of Stoke or Swansea for him to discover his best football.


Probable Line up

4-2-3-1

Mignolet; Can, Skrtel, Howedes, Moreno; Henderson, Kramer; Coutinho, Gundogan, Draxler; Sturridge.


Bench - Jones, Sakho, Lovren, Lallana, Markovic, Ings, Austin.

Squad rating out of 10: 7.2

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: THE SEASON THAT WAS.

ANOTHER SEASON GOES BY!

Gutted is the feeling all football fans will be going through for the next 11 weeks or so. No Premier League football to enjoy on the weekends as I sip a cold glass of my favorite beer cheering my team on. All we have before us is the Copa America which should be interesting and the Champions League final coming up this Saturday.......oh! and not to forget, transfer window kicks in, probably the only exciting bit of a football-less period.

Besides all that, this season would have been amazing if only Mourinho and his boys would have tagged along with the rest of the bunch but instead they ran away with it. Congratulations to the 'boring' champions.

So what moments caught my eye this season? I'm going to break it down and forgive me if Arsenal frequent, I probably watched all their matches this season.


Match of the Season

Tottenham 5 - 3 Chelsea

Chelsea were on a roll at this stage of the season, no one so this coming at all. Spurs were fantastic and tore apart Chelsea's defense. Terry, Cahill and Ivanovic always getting the plaudits for their stern and no nonsense style of defending were torn to mere shreds by Kane and his boys. For once this past campaign Mourinho elected to attack and not sit back and hold on for a draw or 1-0 scoreline. Fantastic match it was.


Team of the Season

Southampton

I'm sure most neutrals would pick The Saints as their team of the season. They started off brilliantly and at one point looked like they would finish in the top 4. All the big boys feared facing them.  As the season progressed they kinda tired, fatigued and they dropped miserably to 7th spot where they eventually finished. Kudos to Ronald Koeman for pushing Spurs and Liverpool all the way.

If Koeman can keep hold of this squad and add more quality around the pitch, they'll definitely be making a whole lot of noise next season.


Signing of the Season

Alexis Sanchez

Please, we all have to bow down to this lad and have a moment of silence for all the magic he pulled this season. To me the best player in the Premier League currently and the only reason he didn't win the PFA player of the year is because Arsenal weren't top but all in all he beat Aguero and Hazard to the PFA fans player of the year. He had to sign out this season with a screamer in the FA cup final. Absolutely amazing! Hope he carries this form into next season.


Flop of the Season

Angel Di Maria

Before Manchester United fans start bashing me, hear me out. The only reason his my flop of the season is because I expected wonders from him but he just didn't show up. I remember watching him play for Real in the Champions League final against Atletico and he was brilliant, then watched him play a friendly for Argentina against Germany and he tore the Germans apart.

He started off the season quite okay, his goal against Leicester City had me drooling for a moment but after that it all went haywire for the Argentine from then on. His miss against Arsenal at the Emirates just sums his whole season into one. He flopped and flopped BAD!


Manager of the Season

Ronald Koeman

It had to be him surely. With so little resources he's done a very good job at Southampton and maybe deserved more than a 7th spot finish. He lost good talent in the summer transfer window but replaced well. Graziano Pelle chipped in with the goals that Lambert offered the season before, Shane Long and Mane filled the void left by Lallana and Fonte and Alderweireld made the Saints fans forget about Dejan Lovren. If he can do this with Southampton, what would he do if he got a club with more resources?!


Most Improved Player

Francis Coquelin

Francis Coquelin, where would Arsenal be without you. Brought back from his loan spell in Charlton due to an injury crisis, Coquelin took that chance with aplomb. Arsenal lacked a player with a bit of bite and aggression, a player that can intercept and break up play, but when he arrived, all that changed. Coquelin bossed the likes of Silva, Fellaini and even Coutinho, not only that, he stats are way better than that of Nemanja Matic the 'so-called' best midfielder in the Premier League. No chance Matic!


Breakthrough Player of the Season

Harry Kane

Is anyone questioning this decision? You better not. Harry Kane has thrived in a position Emmanuel Adebayor and Roberto Soldado have miserably failed in and has grabbed that center forward role by the throat. He scored important goals for Spurs and he is the reason spurs claimed 5th spot. Without his goals, Spurs would probably be meandering in mid-table with the likes of Stoke and Swansea.
Keep it up lad!


Goal of the Season

Graziano Pelle vs QPR

Does anyone remember this beauty from Pelle earlier in the season when Southampton beat QPR 2-1? You probably do because this is as good an overhead kick goal you'll see for sometime. the technique, timing and direction were spot on. Beauty from Graziano Pelle.










 

THE INS AND OUTS: MAN UNITED AND ARSENAL.

CHALLENGERS LOOK TO STRENGTHEN FOR NEXT SEASON.

The 2014/15 season comes to a climax this weekend, Chelsea already crowned champions and the top four spots determined, we can all gear up for two and half months or season without competitive football. We still do have the FA cup and Champions League final to look forward to, if you are an Arsenal, Villa, Barcelona and Juventus fan.

For the coming weeks I'll be digging in to all the transfer rumors and completed deals but for now I'll be taking a look at next seasons challengers, Manchester city, Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and maybe Southampton or Everton. How should they approach the transfer market and which players should they add and get rid of to mount a serious challenge next season.

United and Arsenal are the teams on focus today. The battle at Old Trafford was rather stale and disappointing to some extent. Both sides have already secured Champions League football for next season, so there wasn't really much to play for. A victory for United would have lifted them a point above Arsenal who do have a game in hand though, while a victory for Arsenal would have put them in prime position for 2nd spot.

A draw was a fair result given the balance of play, United dominated the 1st half, the second 45 minutes belonged to Arsenal.

MANCHESTER UNITED

 

United have had an up and down season and a relatively lucky to have achieved Champions League football for next season. The Red Devils fans will have loads of thanks to goalkeeper David De Gea as his heroics in numerous matches have them where they are now. 

Performances have been flat and have lacked a killer edge, defense to shaky and star players Di Maria and RVP seem lost in the theater of dreams. Shuffling formation week in hasn't helped either.

So what do United really need to be taken more serious next season?  Memphis Depay has already signed from PSV, I see this as very unnecessary. Mata, Di Maria, Young, Januzaj and Valencia can all operate in a similar position, unless it means one will be departing.

Defense is the major problem at United, definitely there is need for at least two world class defenders and there is no surprise they have been constantly linked with Mat Hummels. The midfield looks okay but no world class, Carrick is too injury prone, Di Maria as I said looks completely lost, Mata is world class but inconsistent for me and Daley Blind is an average player at best. The forward line is another problem, Rooney aside, RVP's days are numbered and with consistent injury problems he looks done for, and the on-loan man Falcao has been a disappointment.

Ins;

Mat Hummels - The German center back will definitely be available this season and with a host of clubs chasing his signature, Louis Van Gaal will have to act quick. He'll definitely bring some assurance and leadership that United lack in the back.

Dante - The Brazilian has found himself warming the bench at the Allianz ever since the arrival of Benatia and will probably be looking for a move away. If Bayern make him available United should pounce. Whether he'll be willing to move to United is another story, but he is a way better defender than what United have at the moment.

Petr Cech/Asmir Begovic - United will have huge problems if David De Gea leaves for Madrid. Top keepers are hard to find, but in Cech you get a wolrd class keeper who is heading for the exit door at Chelsea. No chance Mourinho is letting him join a rival club. Begovic has been outstanding for Stoke and it's about time he got a move to a bigger club.

Ilkay Gundogan - Another Dortmund player on several clubs radar. His injury record may stop teams signing the talented German, who once tore apart Manchester City's defense with sleek top draw passing. I doubt LVG will be after the German though.

Jackson Martinez/Gareth Bale/Charlie Austin/Harry Kane/Danny Ings - United are in desperate need of a proven goalscorer. So much talk of Bale joining the red half of Manchester but it's a move I don't see happening unless De Gea goes the opposite direction which to me doesn't look like happening. Harry Kane would be the obvious pick from the remaining names, not that he is better than Martinez, no, no, no, he's just more proven to play in England. Do I see it happening? No. Austin or Ings could be good back to Rooney, either would fit in and at a cheap price.

Outs;

Robin Van Persie - The flying dutchman's performances have dropped remarkably this season and coupled with his injury worries and age, RVP is heading for the exit at Old Trafford. He has failed miserably this season and would probably be heading back to Netherlands or a much lower level team.

Radamael Falcao - An unsuccessful loan spell will see the Colombian head back to Monaco. Just like RVP, he has failed to impress and has constant knee problems. I don't see Van Gaal keeping him at United permanently.

Rafael - Injury has kept him out for a while, and with Valencia cementing the right back position and at least two defenders coming in, it will be hard for the Brazilian to get back in the team and he is the most likely option to depart. 

Adnan Januzaj - The young Belgian is full of talent, but is being wasted by LVG. The signing of Depay means more competition in that position. Perhaps a loan spell away for next season will be the best option.

4-2-3-1: De Gea; Valencia, Hummels, Rojo, Shaw; Carrick, Herrera; Depay, Fellaini, Young; Rooney.

Bench: Valdes, Smalling, Jones, Blind, Mata, Di Maria, Austin.

Squad rating out of 10: 7.0

The bench doesn't look to fancy to be honest with only Mata and Di Maria stand out names and the starting 11 still just doesn't look like it has enough to mount a serious challenge. With this squad United will probably be fighting for 4th spot with Liverpool if they sign well and Spurs.

ARSENAL

The Gunners have had a fantastic second half of the season, and will be looking to strengthen a few areas before the start of next season. The first half of the season was too inconsistent, and at that point is when they surrendered the title to Chelsea.

As Mourinho put it, Arsenal aren't too far from challenging Chelsea, a couple of signings will do the trick for Wenger. 

On their game they are absolutely breathtaking and tantalizing. The up for Arsenal will be the rise in form of Mesut Ozil. He's been a joy to watch and he seems to have a good understanding with Sanchez and Cazorla.

So what do Arsenal need to be regarded as challengers next season? Ospina hasn't been bad but he isn't in the level of De Gea, Courtois or Hart. The back line seems to be a bit shaky at times, a replacement for Mertesacker would probably tighten the defense. A defensive midfielder to provide competition for the impressive Coquelin would also help matters and a different kind of striker to compete with Giroud.

Ins;

Asmir Begovic/Steve Mandanda - Petr Cech will be available but we all know Mourinho won't sell him to a rival club. Between Begovic and Mandanda, I would go for the Marseille stopper. He was recently named in the Ligue 1 team of the year and has proven himself time and time again.

Mat Hummels/Benedikt Howedes - Wenger will have to compete with a host of clubs for Hummels signature, if he losses out option B should be Hummels German teammate Howedes. With a strong German link at the Emirates, persuading either of the two shouldn't be that hard. Hummels link to Manchester United seems to be stronger and stronger each day, so Howedes would be the more likely.

Morgan Schniederlin/Ilkay Gundogan/William Carvalho - Arsenal need a holding midfielder just to provide some competition and back up to Coquelin. I don't see Gundogan as being a holding midfielder so I'll dismiss him. Schniederlin is the best fit for Arsenal and he has Premier League experience. Carvalho is a good option but I'd stick with Morgan.

Jackson Martinez/Antonio Lacazette - Arsenal need a different kind of striker to Giroud. Giroud has been impressive but doesn't have back-up or competition for his place. Welbeck doesn't seem to be an out and out striker and Walcott is more explosive out on the wing. Martinez has the pace that Giroud lacks, he also has a physical presence. Lacazette won Ligue 1 player of the year but he just seems like another Walcott and Welbeck, he posses pace just like the two Englishmen but lacks in physicality.

Pedro/Marco Reus - Rumors of Pedro to Arsenal have been gathering steam and it looks almost likely he'll be at the Emirates next season, and with the right wing position up for grabs he'll surely make a case to grab it by the neck. Marco Reus the man I'd love to see in an Arsenal jersey. It looks very unlikely as he signed a new contract but with Klopp gone you never know. 

Outs;

Mikel Arteta - Arteta has served his time at the Emirates and it would be best for him to move on. With an array of talent in central midfield, Arteta is down the pecking order. 

Mathieu Flamini - He'll surely be departing if Wenger brings in another holding midfielder, he's played his part but just like Arteta, game time should be a problem if additions are made at the Emirates.

Wojiech Szczesny - He's had a disappointing season and may see himself as third choice if a new world class keeper is brought in. He's probably too good to be a third choice keeper so moving on would do him good for his international place as Lukas Fabianski has been outstanding for Swansea.

Abou Diaby - Sad to say, but it's about time Wenger gave up on Diaby. He does have the talent and is a personal favorite of mine when fit and on his game. 

4-2-3-1: Mandanda; Bellerin/Debuchy, Howedes, Koscielny, Monreal; Schniederlin/Coquelin, Cazorla; Pedro, Ozil, Sanchez; Martinez.

Bench:Ospina, Mertesacker, Wilshere, Ramsey, Chamberlain, Walcott, Giroud.

Squad rating out of 10: 8

The squad looks complete and the depth on the bench is outstanding. With a squad like this Wenger should surely be battling with Chelsea and Manchester City next season for the title.

EPL WEEK 36: THE SATURDAY THAT WAS.

UNITED HOLD ON FOR THREE, STOKE BLOW AWAY SPURS AND LEICESTER WIN AGAIN.

LEICESTER CITY 2 - 0 SOUTHAMPTON

Riyad Mahrez's first goals since December proceeded with Leicester City's striking Premier League recovery with a 2-0 triumph over Southampton.

Algeria winger Mahrez struck twice amid the first half to excite a rowdy King Power Stadium and secure a 6th win in seven matches for Leicester.

City's triumph served to affirm relegation for Burnley, regardless of the  1-0 win at third-bottom Hull City, who are three points behind 15th placed Leicester with two matches to play.

For Southampton, another dreary display implied a 6th loss in their previous 11 matches, in spite of the fact that thrashing for Tottenham at Stoke City implies Ronald Koeman's group stay one point short of automatic qualification for the UEFA Europa League

Paulo Gazzaniga made his first start of the season in goal as one of four changes by Koeman, while Nigel Pearson stayed with the same Leicester XI that thoroughly beat Newcastle United a weekend ago.

Leicester's recently discovered defensive strength guaranteed Southampton delighted a couple of sights of goal amid an all the more even second half, albeit Kasper Schmeichel was at full-extend to keep a plunging 20-yard shot from Mane inside the last 20 minutes.

STOKE 3 - 0 TOTTENHAM

Stoke City destroyed Tottenham's hopes of a top four spot as they equalled their best points total in the Premier League with a 3-0 triumph on Saturday.

Last season's pull of 50 points was coordinated as goals from Charlie Adam, Steven N'Zonzi and Mame Biram Diouf topped a noteworthy presentation from Mark Hughes' side.

Adam broke the halt following 21 minutes with a short proximity header after poor cautious work from Jan Vertonghen, and N'Zonzi multiplied the lead after another Tottenham mistake including Hugo Lloris and Eric Dier.

Spurs' hopes of a comeback were dashed after 50 minutes as Vlad Chiriches turned into the seventh player to be given red in as many encounters between the two sides at the Britannia Stadium.

With a man short, Tottenham had no solution for Stoke's dynamic execution, Diouf broadening their preference with four minutes to play.

Thrashing mathematically closes any chances that Tottenham had of completing in the Uefa Champions League spots, Mauricio Pochettino will need to settle for an Europa League spot, best case scenario.

EVERTON 0 - 2 SUNDERLAND

Fortune blessed Sunderland as Danny Graham and Jermain Defoe both scored deflected goals to move the Black Cats out of the relegation zone with a hard-battled triumph over Everton.

Graham has persevered through a generally hopeless two years since moving to the Stadium of Light from Swansea City, yet his telling touch on Jordi Gomez's drive put Sunderland ahead after they had splashed up enormous pressure from the hosts.

Dick Advocaat had focused on a point prematch, with his set-up apparently backing that up, Defoe playing the first half as an assistant right back to sum up Sunderland's methodology.

James McCarthy hit the post with a well-hit shot soon after Graham's goal, yet Defoe himself was the recipient of more penalty box pinball to heap weight on Sunderland's immediate opponents at the bottom.

Having pulled themselves from the flame in the diminishing ashes of last season, Sunderland again have an awesome shot of securing top-flight status for another season.

Everton's own desires for rescuing a top 10 completion from their disillusioning season are blurring after a second defeat in a row.

CRYSTAL PALACE 1 - 2 MANCHESTER UNITED

Manchester United turned out 2-1 victors after an enthralling Premier League duel with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday night, putting them on the cusp of Champions League qualification.

Louis van Gaal's side led the halfway through the first half when Scott Dann was questionably rebuffed for a handball, Juan Mata slotting home the spot kick.

Palace gained confidence as the match went on, nonetheless, and equalised after the break when Jason Puncheon's beautiful free kick took a deflection off Daley Blind on it's way past David de Gea.

De Gea made a radiant stop to deny Glenn Murray as the match got more profound into the second half and his versatility was remunerated when inverse number Julian Speroni's horrendous late surge off his line late made room for Marouane Fellaini to complete off Ashley Young's cross.

OTHER RESULTS

ASTON VILLA 1 - 0 WEST HAM

HULL 0 - 1 BURNLEY

NEWCASTLE 1 - 1 WEST BROM

'BORING' CHELSEA CHAMPIONS.

'BORING' 'BORING' CROWNED CHAMPIONS WITH THREE GAMES TO GO.

Congratulations to Chelsea football club on their title win with three games to spare. No doubt they fully deserve it given their performances especially in the first half of the season, they were consistent as their title rivals were nothing close to consistent.

Jose Mourinho always delivers, hate him or love him, he is a master in winning titles. He's done it with every team his managed, Porto, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and now again at Chelsea. Let's applaud the special one please.......or should we not?

This Chelsea team has depth and a variety of options in every position, something that the likes of Arsenal, City and in particular Liverpool and United lack. As an Arsenal supporter, the disgust running down my throat in admitting we lack depth is pinching, come on someone put me out of this misery.

The Blues have been top of the table for 250 so days. Yes 250! So what were their rivals actually playing for this season? Mourinho's men have absolutely blown their rivals away, Arsenal and United had an inconsistent first half of the season, City began to stutter late on and for Liverpool, well, I don't get why they are even considered title challengers with the mediocre squad they have.

Now let me go into the exciting part of this article, 'boring' 'boring' were the chants doing rounds at the Emirates when Chelsea visited not too long ago. And I couldn't agree more. Chelsea are a boring side to watch, and with all the quality they possess in their line up, the likes of Hazard, Oscar, Willian and especially Fabregas who applied his trade in two teams, Arsenal and Barcelona that have mastered tiki-taka football with perfection, we all expect a bit of entertaining football from the Blues surely.

Don't get me wrong, defending is part of the game as well, and with a shaky back line, the risk of conceding goals is very high. But for Mourinho's men, the talent that oozes in the squad can be spotted from miles away. The players are more than capable of defending with the ball at their feet rather than surrendering possession and parking the bus for 90 minutes. What I mean is this, the best form of defense is attack. Just like Barcelona do it, keep the ball, play beautiful football and as long as the opposition don't get hold of the ball, there's no danger of conceding.

So Jose, why not try keeping the ball and having a go at your opponent instead of torturing as football lovers with your usual 9-1 formation. Let me not blame Mourinho for Chelsea's boring brand of football because I can't recall a time Chelsea ever did entertain. Anyway, yapping about 'boring' 'boring' Chelsea won't alter that they are already champions. So maybe Wenger, Pellegrini and Louis Van Gaal should take notes, boring football wins you titles in England.

For one, Arsene Wenger won't change his brand of football, never ever and I'm glad about that. Pellegrini and Van Gaal as well don't look to be going down Mourinho's route. City, Arsenal and United all do play better football than Chelsea, but then where did they lose it.

The blue have of Manchester have given us something to familiar to work with, it's craved out on a rock right in front of us. City are horrendous away from the Etihad, their away form really let them down bad. To add to that, the squad is aging, Yaya Toure is far from the Yaya of last season, Aguero should try stay fit a whole season and Silva needs more Silvas around him, apart from Nasri in the midfield and to some extent Milner, the rest aren't good enough. Their holding midfielders Fernando and Fernandinho are nowhere near the class of Matic or even Coquelin funny enough. The defense needs some tweaking, a Hummels beside Kompany would sort their problems.

Arsenal, Arsenal my beloved Arsenal. If they would have started the season they way they are finishing it, Chelsea would have to wait longer before they are crowned champions. The Gunners story is all too familiar, throw them at the Britannia stadium, Stamford bridge and it's almost a guarantee Wenger's men won't take a point leave alone three. Kick and shove and they find it difficult to cope. They need a bit of aggression and steel to go with their beautiful football.

For United, the red half of Manchester, they'd been riding their lack for a long long time, and probably are lucky to be where they are. lack doesn't last for long and of late United have been found wanting, three defeats in a row says it all, they are definitely out of the race for second spot and are now trying to crawl their way to the finish line. Crystal Palace in the weekend, United fans may be facing another defeat. United to me are kind of like Liverpool, too many mediocre players, and their star players aren't performing at all. RVP, Falcao and Di Maria all seem lost.

Once again congratulations to the boring team for winning the title, and I hope all Chelsea fans watched the game between Barca and Bayern last night, yes, that's how football should be played, both teams positive and not relying on defending. I just have to mention this, Messi's second goal was a gem, take a bow for the Argentine man.

So Mourinho, change your ways and lose the 'boring' tag.

EPL Week 35: SUNDAY PREVIEW.

THE BLUES CAN BE CROWNED CHAMPIONS TODAY AND CITY VISIT WHITE HART LANE.

CHELSEA VS CRYSTAL PALACE

 Chelsea have been head and shoulders over their opponents in the pursuit for the title this season and they could have it wrapped up with three games left.

The Blues enter this  weekend's match 13 points clear and requiring three points to seal a first title in five years.

A triumph would take them to 83 points, which is only three points less than they amassed when they last made title progress in the 2009/10 season.

Chelsea's 3-1 triumph over Leicester City on Wednesday through second-half goals from Didier Drogba, John Terry and Ramires was their 14th game without defeat in the Premier League.

Palace will get to be simply the third team this season to beat Chelsea if fruitful, after only Newcastle and Tottenham, however make a beeline for Stamford Bridge on the back of two straight thrashings. Alan Pardew has won four of his last six Premier League coordinates as a resistance mentor against Chelsea.

Diego Costa will miss the match and may not be included again this season if the Blues win the Premier League title on Sunday.

Loic Remy has returned from a calf injury, while Thibaut Courtois could return in after a minor hip issue.

TOTTENHAM VS MANCHESTER CITY

 Manchester City will look to boost their hopes of completing second in the Premier League when they go to Tottenham.

City's title guard could be over before they commence at White Hart Lane if Chelsea beat Crystal Palace earlier on Sunday however Manuel Pellegrini demands that they are centered around completing the battle on a positive note.

Their away shape will need to change if the Chilean is to get his wish, given that City have lost their last four matches away from the Etihad, a run that has permitted Arsenal and Manchester United to close in on them.

Arsenal are just behind City on goal difference and have played a game less, while United could have jumped their cross town rivals with triumph over West Brom on Saturday, putting further accentuation on beating Tottenham.

The last three games between the two sides has seen a lot of goals, with no less than five in every encounter, City winning each of the three and scoring 15..

Mauricio Pochettino will be concerned by Tottenham's poor record against Pellegrini's side, given their pursuit for an European place against Southampton and Liverpool.

Pochettino affirmed that Danny Rose has come back from a hamstring and could be involved but Ben Davies (shoulder) and Kyle Walker (foot) are both out.

City will be without powerful midfielder Yaya Toure after he was precluded with a hamstring issue, joining captain Vincent Kompany (thigh) and forward Stevan Jovetic on the sidelines.

 

EPL Week 35: SATURDAY PREVIEW.

THE BATTLE FOR SURVIVAL HEATS UP, SHERWOOD TACKLES MARTINEZ AND UNITED WELCOME ALBION.

With just four games left, the battle to stay up in the Premier League has just intensified. Leicester city take on a Newcastle side on the slide towards the wrong end of the table looking to pick up their fourth victory in five games. QPR have to navigate their way through a tough opposition in the form of Liverpool at anfield while Sunderland, Burnley and West Brom all face tough tests in their bids for survival.

ASTON VILLA VS EVERTON

Aston Villa proceed with their fight for Premier League survival when they play host to Everton one of the in-form sides in the division on Saturday.

The FA Cup finalists are two points above the relegation zone with four games of the season remaining, the first of which is the visit of an Everton side that is unbeaten in six outings.

Tim Sherwood was appreciating a somewhat decent April until this week. The previous Tottenham Hotspur manager had made a delightful and triumphant come back to White Hart Lane and drove Villa into the FA Cup final with triumph over Liverpool at Wembley.

On the other hand, results have not striven for the Villans throughout the most recent couple of days. Either side of them being beaten late by Manchester City, they saw Leicester make up ground on them and Hull City hop above them in the table.

A weekend ago's persuading 3-0 triumph over Manchester United was most likely the highlight of what has generally been a baffling season for the Toffees.

They were in control through and through against Louis van Gaal's men as James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas goals saw the Merseysiders record their greatest win over their North-West opponents in 23 years.

The three points took Roberto Martinez's men into the top half of the table for the first time this season and extended their unbeaten streak to six matches. They have likewise kept three clean sheets in succession at Goodison Park.

Everton's Bryan Oviedo has been precluded for the season in the wake of sustaining a metatarsal injury in training. Darron Gibson, Tony Hibbert and Steven Pienaar are likewise sidelined, yet Martinez would have been unrealistic to roll out any changes.

Gabriel Agbonlahor and Alan Hutton might likewise be in contention relying upon the aftereffects of their late fitness tests. On the other hand, defenders Nathan Baker and Ciaran Clark are both missing and subsequently Jores Okore will proceed alongside Ron Vlaar.

LIVERPOOL VS QPR

 Chris Ramsey says that QPR must gain from Hull City's exploits this week in front of their trek to Liverpool on Saturday.

Brendan Rodgers' side were beaten 1-0 at the KC Stadium on Tuesday to empty their Champions League desires and Ramsey trusts that his side can support their survival trusts with a comparable presentation.

QPR have just endured one thrashing in their last four Premier League matches, gathering five points from a potential 12, moving them within four points of security in the drop zone.

A trip to Liverpool is the first of two dubious assignments out and about for Ramsey's side – they go to Manchester City the weekend after – before they confront kindred strugglers Newcastle and Leicester City.

Some of Ramsey's conviction will originate from QPR's courageous endeavors against Liverpool prior in the season when, notwithstanding losing 3-2, they verged on grabbing a draw. Four goals in the end minutes at Loftus Road saw the Reds discard a point as Steven Caulker's own goal gave the Reds a dramatic win. Much has changed from that point forward, however, with QPR issuing themselves a shot of survival and Liverpool falling endlessly in the race for a top four spot.

Rout at Hull was the third in five excursions for Rodgers' men, deserting them seven points from fourth place Manchester United. With Tottenham and Southampton still solidly in the race for an Europa League place, Liverpool can't stand to drop any more points.

With Daniel Sturridge effectively discounted and Mario Balotelli an uncertainty in the wake of managing a sliced foot against Hull, there was some uplifting news for Rodgers on Thursday, however, as Lucas Leiva and Alberto Moreno came back to first team training.

Rio Ferdinand is back in contention for QPR after a spate of injuries in the most recent month however the defender will have fitness checks before the excursion north. Striker Bobby Zamora is to be available regardless of nursing a hip problem, while Leroy Fer is fit in the wake of recuperating from a knee injury.

SUNDERLAND VS SOUTHAMPTON

Ronald Koeman does not anticipate that Sunderland's players will be as liberal on Saturday as they were in October, when Southampton cavorted to a 8-0 win in the Premier League.

Own goals from Santiago Vergini, Liam Bridcutt and Patrick van Aanholt topped a hopeless day at St Mary's Stadium for Sunderland under previous manager Gus Poyet, with Will Buckley and Vito Mannone likewise at flaw.

That denoted the least point of a baffling battle for third bottom Sunderland that has them dug in the relegation zone as Southampton get ready to make the trip for the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

Dick Advocaat succeeded Poyet in March however has won quite recently once – against Newcastle – in the four matches that he has supervised.

Southampton, who are seventh, are as yet pushing for an European place, regardless of a drop in form lately, and Koeman realizes that his group will need to buckle down at Sunderland instead of depend on defensive mix-ups.

With Sunderland set to face Arsenal and Chelsea away amid the last week of the season, Advocaat's side needn't bother with helping to remember the significance of the forthcoming games against Southampton, Everton and kindred strugglers Leicester City.

Southampton have been hit by the news that midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin will probably miss whatever is left of the season with a knee ligament damage, while Dusan Tadic (groin) is additionally sidelined.

Advocaat has no new injuries regardless of John O'Shea enduring facial injuries in the 1-1 draw at Stoke City last time out, so the hosts are liable to be without Steven Fletcher, Ricky Alvarez, Wes Brown and Emanuele Giaccherini.

MANCHESTER UNITED VS WEST BROM

Manchester United welcome West Brom on Saturday looking to dodge a third straight Premier League loss however may be without captain Wayne Rooney.

Disappointing losses to Chelsea and Everton have hampered United's endeavors to guarantee automatic progression for the Champions League, with Rooney picking up a knee injury in the game against his previous club.

United managed majority of possesion at both Stamford Bridge and Goodison however were hit clinically on the counter at both venues.

With Tony Pulis' men likewise liable to sit deep in their offer to claim points, United face an examination of their attacking ability and the absence of their top scorer would represent a blow.

Radamel Falcao would likely be the man tasked with supplanting Rooney, as Robin van Persie and Adnan Januzaj are still trying to work their way back to full fitness.

After consecutive thrashings by strugglers QPR and Leicester City, West Brom have taken four points off Crystal Palace and Liverpool.

Saturday's guests to Old Trafford have effectively bettered their 36-point pull from last season and guaranteed their Premier League status for next term on account of a turnaround in fortunes under Pulis.

OTHER FIXTURES;

Leicester City vs Newcastle United

Swansea vs Stoke

West Ham vs Burnley

EPL Week 34: THE WEEKEND THAT WAS.

CITY SURVIVE VILLA SCARE, EVERTON ROLL OVER THE RED DEVILS AND CHELSEA EDGE CLOSER TO TITLE.

The Premier League title race is all rapped up but the battle for second, third and fourth spot is as tight as ever. Arsenal, City and United have all surrendered the title to a Chelsea side that has been impressive this season, now which of the three will finish second. City don't look like the City of old and were given a scare by an in form Villa side. United looked out of sorts against Everton's pace on the counter attack and have now lost two on the bounce. And for Arsenal, they just couldn't break down a solid Chelsea back line.

SOUTHAMPTON 2 - 2 TOTTENHAM

 This was an interesting and enlivening match that, in truth, highlighted the reasons why Southampton and Tottenham will fall distressingly yet deservingly shy of a top four spot.

Both sides were fixed by poor defending and reckless finishing at various points of a game that ebbed and streamed at St Mary's Stadium, however Ronald Koeman can take extraordinary heart from the evident rejuvenation of Graziano Pelle and Morgan Schneiderlin was by and by the exceptional player on the pitch.

Southampton twice led the pack through Graziano Pelle yet were twice pegged back as they drew 2-2 with Tottenham in the Premier League on Saturday.

As Mauricio Pochettino came back to the stadium that he cleared out the previous summer to join Spurs, the hosts led the pack when the Italian striker profited a defensive error from the north Londoners, with both Ryan Mason and Ben Davies at deficiency.

Erik Lamela, nonetheless, recovered one back before the break when his slight touch fell off goalkeeper Kelvin Davis on its way through.

A strong Pelle header restored the Saints' lead in the second half but, after five minutes, Nacer Chadli outmuscled Maya Yoshida to discharge a low shot past Davis, leaving neither side with what might have been a valuable point in the race for the Europa League.

MANCHESTER CITY 3 - 2 ASTON VILLA

Fernandinho resisted a valiant Aston Villa comeback as Manchester City edged to a 3-2 Premier League triumph on Saturday.

Manuel Pellegrini's forthcoming ousted champions had all the earmarks of being cruising to consecutive wins surprisingly since February after Sergio Aguero and Aleksandar Kolarov put them 2-0 up.

Tom Cleverley's first Villa goal diminished the arrears in the 68th minute and Carlos Sanchez coolly volleyed home from a corner with five minutes remaining.

Be that as it may, Tim Sherwood's side, who progressed to the FA Cup final in correspondingly stirring manner by beating Liverpool a weekend ago, showed set-piece frailties of their own in the 89th moment as Fernandinho grabbed the winner.

The win moves under-fire City manager Pellegrini and his side up to second in the table, albeit Arsenal have a game in hand.

Villa are two points above the relegation zone in 16th after wins for kindred strugglers Hull City and Leicester City prior on Saturday and they have played a game more than the three teams promptly underneath them.

WEST BROM 0 - 0 LIVERPOOL

Liverpool's considerations are currently concentrated absolutely on a top four finish after their heartbreak in the FA Cup semi-finals - yet, in a game with minimal quality, this was not the execution of a side whose season relies on Champions League qualification.

Steven Gerrard's 500th Premier League appearance was not one to recall as Liverpool were held to a goalless draw at West Brom that leaves their shots of securing a Champions League spot looking considerably more remote.

Gerrard was denied a farewell appearance in the FA Cup final when Aston Villa beat Brendan Rodgers' side 2-1 in the semi-final last time out and they additionally look prone to pass up a great opportunity for a top four spot in the long-serving captain's last season before moving to LA Galaxy.

Liverpool had the better of Saturday's exchanges at the Hawthorns yet were not able to react to their Wembley catastrophe with a triumph as the Baggies burrowed deep to draw a point nearer to safety.

Jordon Ibe struck the crossbar in the second half and Gerrard came close with a free kick before the break however it turned out to be a baffling evening for Rodgers' men.

EVERTON 3 - 0 MANCHESTER UNITED

This was by far my game of the week maybe only matched up to by Villas brave showing at the Etihad. Everton did to United what they enjoy inflicting on teams, sit back and counter with devastating effect. And my word didn't the toffees execute their counters with devastating effect.

Not even when David Moyes was overseeing both of these sides did Everton record a heavier win over Manchester United at Goodison Park - and the Toffees completely merited their best home win over the Red Devils subsequent to the 1984-85 season.

In spite of enjoying the most of the possession, Manchester United were given a stun 3-0 thrashing by Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday.

A win would have moved the Red Devils, momentarily, into second place however the home side went in front at an opportune time when a sizzling counterattack was done off by James McCarthy.

John Stones took advantage of lackluster defending at a corner to head home his first goal for the Toffees presently before half-time, leaving United reeling, yet not in any case some attacking substitutions could turn things around for Louis van Gaal's men.

A questionable choice not to rule Romelu Lukaku as not meddling with play from an offside position saw things go from awful to more terrible for United as substitute Kevin Mirallas jumped for the third, the defence having neglected to play to the referee's whistle.

ARSENAL 0 - 0 CHELSEA

 Champions elect Chelsea and title rivals Arsenal played out a feisty goalless Premier League draw at the Emirates Stadium, with a great part of the talk centering on four penalty claims all turned down.

The most conspicuous included David Ospina's blunderous first-half impact with Oscar in an acutely challenged stalemate that saw Cesc Fabregas booed on his arrival to his previous club and Jose Mourinho keep up his unbeaten record against Arsene Wenger.

With Diego Costa and Loic Remy harmed, Oscar started as the nonentity of Chelsea's attack and was central to the talking point of the match as knocked a header past the onrushing David Ospina.

However, the Brazilian was poleaxed by the Arsenal goalkeeper and, after the chance was gathered up by Hector Bellerin, Chelsea's dissatisfactions were clear as referee Michael Oliver selected against honoring a spot kick and displaying a conceivable red card.

Mourinho was left unmistakably unmoved at the absence of a punishment or a card for the Colombian, despite the fact that Oscar was able to proceed after therapeutic aid.

Oliver was again at the focal point of things 23 minutes in, as was Fabregas, who was booked for simulation following a clash of knees with fellow spaniard Santi Cazorla in the box.

It was then Arsenal's swing to unsuccessfully call for a spot kick when Cahill handled after the half-hour mark, Ramires then forced Ospina into a shrewd save following a brisk break and sharp pass by Willian.

Both sides countered rapidly however attempted to locate the last pass - Per Mertesacker miscuing a shot wide before substitute Danny Welbeck neglected to sort his feet and style a chance after Nacho Monreal's pass.

At last, Wenger neglected to show signs of improvement of his inverse number at the 13th attempt, while Mourinho must hold up until next Sunday's visit of Crystal Palace for a chance to secure Chelsea's fourth Premier League crown giving they win at Leicester.

OTHER RESULTS

Burnley 0 - 1 Leicester City

Crystal Palace 0 - 2 Hull City

Newcastle 2 - 3 Swansea

QPR 0 - 0 West Ham

Stoke 1 - 1 Sunderland

EPL Week 34; SUNDAY PREVIEW

GOODISON WELCOMES THE RED DEVILS AND IT'S A WENGER/MOURINHO SHOWDOWN!

Manchester United will be going to the blue half of Mersyside hoping to inflict similar damage as they did to the red half of Liverpool. United have not picked up any points their in the last two visits and will be hoping for better this time. Elsewhere, the top two go head to head in the final game of the weekend as Arsenal host Chelsea at the Emirates. Two great games to look forward to today.

EVERTON VS MANCHESTER UNITED

United travel to a resurgent Everton side that have picked up ten points from their last four games while the visitors have nine from a possible twelve points. Louis Van Gaal’s side will be looking to bounce back from last weekend’s disappointing defeat to rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge despite dominating a huge chunk of the game.

Everton season looks to have taken a turn for the better after a poor first half of the season, Martinez side look to have found the perfect formula at the right time. Playing in Europe next season is a far cry for Everton who have been regular contestants in the Europa League for the past decade. Safe from the jaws of relegation, the Toffees have nothing but pride to play for really.

Goodison Park is not an easy place to visit, and most United fans will be aware of that having lost their last two visits to the blue half of Mersyside. United’s cross town rivals Manchester City along with Liverpool and Arsenal have all failed to leave Goodison Park with all three points this season.

The previous meeting between the sides at Old Trafford ended in a 2-1 win for the home side who were a bit fortunate David De Gea was in outstanding form on the day to keep out Everton on a number of occasions.

Martinez is hoping to have James McCarthy and Leon Osman available but Steven Pienaar is likely to miss out due to muscle fatigue.

United will be without full back Rafael who has a broken rib. Joining him on the sidelines is Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and Michael Carrick who is still absent due to a calf injury.

Predicted Line ups;

Everton (4-2-3-1)

Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Stones, Baines; McCarthy, Barry; Lennon, Barkley, Mirallas; Lukaku.

Manchester United (4-1-4-1)

De Gea; Valencia, Smalling, McNair, Shaw; Blind; Mata, Herrera, Fellaini, Young; Rooney.

Prediction;

Everton 2 – 2 Manchester United

Both teams are on fine form, and Everton just always seem to find that extra gear when the big boys come visiting. A draw looks a safe bet, both sides look strong but United’s backline still worries me especially at center back.

ARSENAL VS CHELSEA

Its Wenger vs Mourinho, first versus second, Alexis versus Hazard. This is the game all have been waiting for this whole week, the top two go head to head at the Emirates with Chelsea looking to inch their way closer to their first Premier League title since the return of the ‘special one’ while the Gunners will be looking to keep pace with the leaders.

Wenger doesn’t fair too good against Mourinho, in fact it is horrendous. In twelve attempts Wenger has no victory against Mou, with seven defeats including the 2-0 loss at the Bridge earlier this season and five draws.

With the likes of Sanchez, Ozil and Cazorla, Wenger will probably be facing Mourinho with his probably his best team ever since Jose joined the Premier League. Some may argue that this is also Mourinho’s best eleven since the Robben days.

This game is even made sweeter due to the animosity between the two managers. They can both brush away any rivalry at press conferences but it’s plain to see that they really don’t like each other, the earlier meeting was evidence to that with Wenger’s famous push on the Portuguese.

Cesc Fabregas is set to make his return to the place he once called home and loved dearly since departing for Barcelona in the summer of 2011. The reception he’ll receive will no doubt be a hostile one.

Mourinho should have Drogba fit for this match, which will take a bit of pressure from him as the Ivorian had suffered a minor problem during the week to leave Mou with no strikers to take with him to the Emirates. Diego Costa is still out with a hamstring problem and Loic Remy has a calf injury.

Wenger will be glad to have a bunch of players to choose from, not so many times you hear that from the Arsenal camp. Apart from Mertesacker who is 50-50, everyone else is fit. The Ox and Arteta may just lack match fitness though.

Predicted Line ups;

 

Arsenal (4-2-3-1)

Ospina; Debuchy, Gabriel, Koscielny, Monreal; Coquelin, Ramsey; Sanchez, Cazorla, Ozil; Giroud.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1)

Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Zouma, Matic; Oscar, Fabregas, Hazard; Drogba.

Prediction;

Arsenal 2 – 2 Chelsea

A very tough one to call, but I’ll go for the draw in this one. The one problem I see for Chelsea is if Hazard is shut out, where will the goals come from? Then again, if Arsenal fail to deal with the Belgium they may suffer.  I’m sure Mourinho will have both Zouma and Matic in front of the defense to deal with the Arsenal trio of stars just behind Giroud especially Alexis Sanchez.