Derby County
Gareth Roberts got an assist for Derby in their match against Ipswich but that wasn’t enough to beat Ipswich which must have been quite worrying because everyone beats Ipswich. I don’t know what Gareth was doing when he was supposed to be playing against Forest.
League: Watford A 2-0 (played all)
League: Forest H 0-1 (unselected)
Ipswich H 1-2 (A1 7, played all)
Ben Davies transferred from Notts County to Derby when they finally made a bid that was high enough – and made his debut against Nottingham Forest.
Ben thinks all Derby need is a bit of luck and soon they’ll be winning games again.
Ben says Nigel Clough was the main reason why he joined Derby. He’s confident that he’s ready for Championship football.
Ben has received death threats from fans of his former club Notts County but he doesn’t seem overly worried, just disappointed.
League: Soton A 0-0 (played all) with Notts Co
League: Forest H 0-1 (played all) with Derby County
League: Ipswich H 1-2 (played all)
Robbie Savage chose to remain at Derby rather than going to Vancouver but he won’t be at Derby for long. He’ll be retiring at the end of the season.
After four games without a win for Derby (including an FA Cup match against Crawley Town), and with no win since the end of October over a team other than Preston, Scunthorpe, Ipswich or Portsmouth, Robbie found himself on the bench.
Robbie thinks Blackpool should change their tactics and Liverpool shouldn’t get too ahead of themselves.
Robbie gives his take on assistant referee Sian Massey’s ability to do her job – which is really all that matters.
League: Watford A 2-0 (played all)
League: Forest H 0-1 (starts, Y foul 35, off 55)
League: Ipswich H 1-2 (bench)
Doncaster Rovers
John Oster made his 400th career appearance against Reading but that was the only thing he had to celebrate where that match was concerned.
League: Reading H 0-3 (played all)
FA Cup: Wolves A 5-0 (played all)
League: Ipswich A 3-2 (played all)
League: Barnsley H 0-2 (played all)
League: Burnley H 1-0 (starts, off 89)
Brian Stock missed six matches with an injury but sources disagreed on whether it was his leg or his back. But something definitely hurt.
Brian is close to signing a new deal with Doncaster.
League: Reading H 0-3 (out, leg or back)
FA Cup: Wolves A 5-0 (out, leg or back)
League: Ipswich A 3-2 (out, leg or back)
League: Barnsley H 0-0 (out, leg or back)
League: Burnley H 1-0 (starts, off 84)
Leeds United
Sanchez Watt again played for Leeds against parent club Arsenal. He said he would try his hardest to score but he wouldn’t celebrate. Luckily he didn’t try hard enough.
League: Scunthorpe H 4-0 (starts, G1 17, off 80)
FA Arsenal H 1-3 (starts, off 79)
League: Portsmouth A 2-2 (starts, off 62)
League: Hull A 2-2 (out, hamstring)
Leicester City
Andy King is discussing a new contract with Leicester. He believes Leicester need to build some momentum as they fight for a place in the play-offs. Andy has been nominated for the PFA January Player of the Month award.
League: Preston A 1-1 (played all)
FA Cup: Man City A 4-2 (played all)
League: Millwall H 4-2 (played all)
League: Sheff Utd A 0-1 (G 1 4, played all)
Middlesbrough
Danny Coyne was probably really happy with Middlesbrough’s 4-0 away victory over Bristol City. It was just a shame he wasn’t actually on the pitch.
League: Bristol C A 0-4 (bench)
League: Preston H 1-1 (out, back)
League: Scunthorpe H 2-0 (out, back)
Rhys Williams is still recovering from a pelvic problem but he is training again.
Millwall
Steve Morison returned to the starting line-up after not completely recovering from flu and had a couple of quiet matches before getting back on the scoresheet against Ipswich. He also scored against Barnsley. Maybe he’d have scored against Norwich too if he hadn’t injured his calf.
Millwall manager Kenny Jackett hopes Steve will sign a new contract with Millwall.
League: Ipswich H 2-1 (G2 76, played all)
League: Leicester A 4-2 (played all)
League: Barnsley H 2-0 (G1 17, played all)
League: Norwich A 2-1 (starts, off 16)
Norwich City
Andrew Crofts scored twice against Sheffield United. It would be nice if he could do that against England but England are probably better than Sheffield United.
League Cardiff H 1-1 (starts, off 78)
League: Sheff Utd A 1-2 (Y foul 14, G1 61, G2 80, played all)
League: Palace A 0-0 (Y 76, played all)
League: Millwall H 2-1 (Y foul 35, played all)
Showing posts with label andy king. Show all posts
Showing posts with label andy king. Show all posts
Sunday, 6 February 2011
Saturday, 22 January 2011
Championship Fixtures 22nd January 2011 (Part 3)
Ipswich Town v Doncaster Rovers
Ipswich will be hoping Doncaster are still suffering the after-effects of their FA Cup defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers They really don’t want to lose for the ninth time in eleven matches.
Troy Brown could return from a hamstring injury for Ipswich.
John Oster should start for Doncaster but Brian Stock is still out with a back or leg injury.
Leicester City v Millwall
Millwall are the form team in the Championship but Leicester have only lost twice at home this season.
Andy King isn’t going to be dropped from Leicester’s team in a hurry.
Steve Morison should start for Millwall – they’ll be hoping he’s fully recovered from the flu and has the energy to score and celebrate lots of goals.
Middlesbrough v Preston North End
Middlesbrough are unbeaten in four and must be hopeful of extending this run when they face the Championship’s bottom club, who have only won twice away.
Rhys Williams expects to be back in full training in a month’s time and he hopes he’ll be playing for Middlesbrough again by March. Rhys has had a problem with his pelvis for the last year and hasn’t played since April.
Danny Coyne will be on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Craig Morgan could keep his place in Preston’s starting line-up with Paul Parry on the bench.
Portsmouth v Leeds United
Portsmouth will be hoping to end a run of three league defeats but they’ll be lucky to do that against fifth-placed Leeds.
Sanchez Watt should start for Leeds.
Ipswich will be hoping Doncaster are still suffering the after-effects of their FA Cup defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers They really don’t want to lose for the ninth time in eleven matches.
Troy Brown could return from a hamstring injury for Ipswich.
John Oster should start for Doncaster but Brian Stock is still out with a back or leg injury.
Leicester City v Millwall
Millwall are the form team in the Championship but Leicester have only lost twice at home this season.
Andy King isn’t going to be dropped from Leicester’s team in a hurry.
Steve Morison should start for Millwall – they’ll be hoping he’s fully recovered from the flu and has the energy to score and celebrate lots of goals.
Middlesbrough v Preston North End
Middlesbrough are unbeaten in four and must be hopeful of extending this run when they face the Championship’s bottom club, who have only won twice away.
Rhys Williams expects to be back in full training in a month’s time and he hopes he’ll be playing for Middlesbrough again by March. Rhys has had a problem with his pelvis for the last year and hasn’t played since April.
Danny Coyne will be on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Craig Morgan could keep his place in Preston’s starting line-up with Paul Parry on the bench.
Portsmouth v Leeds United
Portsmouth will be hoping to end a run of three league defeats but they’ll be lucky to do that against fifth-placed Leeds.
Sanchez Watt should start for Leeds.
Thursday, 20 January 2011
FA Cup Third Round Replay Results 18th January 2011
Cardiff City 0-2 Stoke City aet
This result provided plenty of disappointment but no real surprises as the Premier League side went though to the next round – although they did need extra time in order to do it. Cardiff arguably should have got a penalty or two, including one right at the end of normal time when Stoke’s Danny Collins got a bit intimate with a member of the opposition in the penalty area. But it wasn’t given.
Darcy Blake was back in the starting line-up for Cardiff, and Aaron Wildig made his first appearance since September when Stephen McPhail went off injured after 39 minutes. Adam Matthews joined them on the pitch in the second half but there was no match time for Nathaniel Jarvis, on the bench for only the third time this season.
Craig Bellamy (Cardiff) and Ryan Shawcross (Stoke) were among the big names to be rested.
Manchester City 4-2 Leicester City
Manchester City went through to the fourth round at the expense of Leicester City, managed by Man City’s former manager Sven Goran-Eriksson. But Leicester shouldn’t feel too disheartened – they were playing against some of football’s biggest names and they didn’t play badly at all. Late in the game, Leicester brought the score back to 3-2 and then pushed for an equaliser which gave Man City the chance to grab a fourth
Andy King caused lots of problems for Manchester City which is what we like to see.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 5-0 Doncaster Rovers
For a long time, I thought Doncaster might get an equaliser. They certainly played like a team capable of doing something like that. After an hour, it was still 1-0 to Wolves. But then it all got a bit mad and the commentator was almost saying more about Wolves than he was about Cardiff. Wolves just kept on scoring.
David Jones kept his place in Wolves’ starting line-up and scored their stoppage-time winner. Sam Vokes came off the bench after 78 minutes and I think he lasted the whole of the remaining fifteen minutes which is two minutes longer than he played in his only other game this season. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
This result provided plenty of disappointment but no real surprises as the Premier League side went though to the next round – although they did need extra time in order to do it. Cardiff arguably should have got a penalty or two, including one right at the end of normal time when Stoke’s Danny Collins got a bit intimate with a member of the opposition in the penalty area. But it wasn’t given.
Darcy Blake was back in the starting line-up for Cardiff, and Aaron Wildig made his first appearance since September when Stephen McPhail went off injured after 39 minutes. Adam Matthews joined them on the pitch in the second half but there was no match time for Nathaniel Jarvis, on the bench for only the third time this season.
Craig Bellamy (Cardiff) and Ryan Shawcross (Stoke) were among the big names to be rested.
Manchester City 4-2 Leicester City
Manchester City went through to the fourth round at the expense of Leicester City, managed by Man City’s former manager Sven Goran-Eriksson. But Leicester shouldn’t feel too disheartened – they were playing against some of football’s biggest names and they didn’t play badly at all. Late in the game, Leicester brought the score back to 3-2 and then pushed for an equaliser which gave Man City the chance to grab a fourth
Andy King caused lots of problems for Manchester City which is what we like to see.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 5-0 Doncaster Rovers
For a long time, I thought Doncaster might get an equaliser. They certainly played like a team capable of doing something like that. After an hour, it was still 1-0 to Wolves. But then it all got a bit mad and the commentator was almost saying more about Wolves than he was about Cardiff. Wolves just kept on scoring.
David Jones kept his place in Wolves’ starting line-up and scored their stoppage-time winner. Sam Vokes came off the bench after 78 minutes and I think he lasted the whole of the remaining fifteen minutes which is two minutes longer than he played in his only other game this season. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Tuesday, 18 January 2011
FA Cup Third Round Replay Fixtures 18th January 2011
Cardiff City v Stoke City
Stoke and Cardiff drew the original fixture but (barring match cancellations and abandonments) it will be decided on Tuesday night who goes through to face Doncaster Rovers or Wolverhampton Wanderers in the next round. Cardiff haven’t lost any of their last three but only one was actually a win.
It is thought that Cardiff manager Dave Jones might not want to risk Craig Bellamy’s knee by playing him in this fixture – he missed the first match between these two clubs too. If Craig scores, it will be his 150th career goal.
If other first-choice players are rested, Darcy Blake, Adam Matthews and Jason Koumas (if he’s recovered from injury) could come into contention but it could be that only Craig is rested.
Stoke also rested players in the first tie, keeping captain Ryan Shawcross in the starting line-up but giving Danny Collins a rest. Danny was on the bench for Stoke’s last Premier League match so he could be given the chance to play in this match.
Manchester City v Leicester City
Leicester were another Championship side to hold a Premier League side to a draw.and are unbeaten in their last four matches.
Andy King scored the equaliser to give Leicester a replay at Manchester City. It’s hard to imagine them leaving him out but he might need a rest at some stage and with Leicester eyeing promotion (albeit from a very long way down the table), there will arguably be more important games than this one.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Doncaster Rovers
Wolves needed a penalty in order to set up a rematch with Doncaster. They have struggled in away matches this season but are stronger at home.
Wayne Hennessey could be rested again for Wolves. Dave Edwards is still out with a hamstring injury so David Jones could keep his place in midfield but the return to fitness of Karl Henry could put this in doubt.
Doncaster are still without Brian Stock, who has either a leg or a back injury, but John Oster should play.
Stoke and Cardiff drew the original fixture but (barring match cancellations and abandonments) it will be decided on Tuesday night who goes through to face Doncaster Rovers or Wolverhampton Wanderers in the next round. Cardiff haven’t lost any of their last three but only one was actually a win.
It is thought that Cardiff manager Dave Jones might not want to risk Craig Bellamy’s knee by playing him in this fixture – he missed the first match between these two clubs too. If Craig scores, it will be his 150th career goal.
If other first-choice players are rested, Darcy Blake, Adam Matthews and Jason Koumas (if he’s recovered from injury) could come into contention but it could be that only Craig is rested.
Stoke also rested players in the first tie, keeping captain Ryan Shawcross in the starting line-up but giving Danny Collins a rest. Danny was on the bench for Stoke’s last Premier League match so he could be given the chance to play in this match.
Manchester City v Leicester City
Leicester were another Championship side to hold a Premier League side to a draw.and are unbeaten in their last four matches.
Andy King scored the equaliser to give Leicester a replay at Manchester City. It’s hard to imagine them leaving him out but he might need a rest at some stage and with Leicester eyeing promotion (albeit from a very long way down the table), there will arguably be more important games than this one.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Doncaster Rovers
Wolves needed a penalty in order to set up a rematch with Doncaster. They have struggled in away matches this season but are stronger at home.
Wayne Hennessey could be rested again for Wolves. Dave Edwards is still out with a hamstring injury so David Jones could keep his place in midfield but the return to fitness of Karl Henry could put this in doubt.
Doncaster are still without Brian Stock, who has either a leg or a back injury, but John Oster should play.
Championship Results 15th January 2011 (Part 2)
Norwich City 1-1 Cardiff City
Cardiff came so close to the win that would have put them ahead of Swansea City, which is a very important place to be. But Norwich equalised in the 90th minute, leaving both sides to fight for a winner that never came in the five minutes of stoppage time.
Craig Bellamy nearly scored his 150th career goal for Cardiff against the club where he began his career.
Andrew Crofts provided some attacking threat for Norwich.
The radio commentators seemed to think Darcy Blake was going to come off the bench but he didn’t. Neither did Adam Matthews.
Nottingham Forest 2-1 Portsmouth
Portsmouth must have thought they’d ended Nottingham Forest’s unbeaten home record when they were 1-0 up after 87 minutes. Then another Portsmouth player scored – but he didn’t put it in the right net. And Portsmouth ended up getting nothing from the game at all when Forest scored a 94th-minute winner.
Chris Gunter and Robert Earnshaw both started for Forest.
Preston North End 1-1 Leicester City
Leicester want to be promoted while Preston just don’t want to be trying to be promoted from League One next season. But both teams are leaving it late, the home side in particular. Preston did well to snatch the point in stoppage time and they were lucky Andy King didn’t grab a winner for Leicester – but they’re still seven points from safety, while Leicester are even further from their own target.
Craig Morgan played the full match for Preston with Paul Parry making a substitute appearance shortly after half-time.
Cardiff came so close to the win that would have put them ahead of Swansea City, which is a very important place to be. But Norwich equalised in the 90th minute, leaving both sides to fight for a winner that never came in the five minutes of stoppage time.
Craig Bellamy nearly scored his 150th career goal for Cardiff against the club where he began his career.
Andrew Crofts provided some attacking threat for Norwich.
The radio commentators seemed to think Darcy Blake was going to come off the bench but he didn’t. Neither did Adam Matthews.
Nottingham Forest 2-1 Portsmouth
Portsmouth must have thought they’d ended Nottingham Forest’s unbeaten home record when they were 1-0 up after 87 minutes. Then another Portsmouth player scored – but he didn’t put it in the right net. And Portsmouth ended up getting nothing from the game at all when Forest scored a 94th-minute winner.
Chris Gunter and Robert Earnshaw both started for Forest.
Preston North End 1-1 Leicester City
Leicester want to be promoted while Preston just don’t want to be trying to be promoted from League One next season. But both teams are leaving it late, the home side in particular. Preston did well to snatch the point in stoppage time and they were lucky Andy King didn’t grab a winner for Leicester – but they’re still seven points from safety, while Leicester are even further from their own target.
Craig Morgan played the full match for Preston with Paul Parry making a substitute appearance shortly after half-time.
Friday, 14 January 2011
Championship Fixtures 15th January 2011 (Part 3)
Preston North End v Leicester City
Phil Brown takes charge of Preston for the first time since becoming manager. The last time he played on the Championship, he got promoted. With Hull. But even just saving Preston would be a bit of a miracle. Leicester are four points behind the play-offs and thinking of promotion. So they really ought to be able to beat Preston.
Craig Morgan could start again for Preston but he could also be on the bench or not there at all. It depends what his new manager thinks of him really. Paul Parry has a broken wrist but he’s back in full training and could play.
Andy King will definitely start for Leicester, as long as he has no last-minute injuries or illnesses.
Swansea City v Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace have the worst away record in the Championship, having won one away match this season – and while Swansea don’t quite have the best home record, they’re not far off.
Ashley Williams will start for Swansea but it’s hard to be sure about the others. Daniel Alfei, Joe Allen, David Cotterill and Jazz Richards have all played well in recent matches but there probably won’t be room for all of them. Neil Taylor has an ankle injury and will be out for a few more weeks.
Following Daniel Alfei’s impressive first-team debut, the Swansea youth boss, Tony Pennock, has said that Daniel has a big future ahead of him in professional football. Daniel hopes to keep his place against Palace.
Jermaine Easter’s loan spell at Swansea was cut short early – so parent club Milton Keynes Dons could sell him to Crystal Palace. Jermaine is looking to scoring for Palace and helping them climb the table. Although he’s only just signed, he could play against Swansea tomorrow.
Shaun MacDonald is hoping to fight his way into the Swansea first team. Shaun has spent the first half of the season on loan at Yeovil Town.
Andy Dorman and Lewis Price should be somewhere in Palace’s squad.
Watford v Derby County
Derby were doing really really well. They did have a slightly dodgy start but then they went on a run, then they went on a good home run, now they can’t even beat Crawley Town. But the last time Derby went on a run, they kicked things off with a victory over Watford.
Gareth Roberts and Robbie Savage might keep their places. Nigel Clough might still be in a mood about Crawley Town but Gareth and Robbie weren’t actually on the pitch when the winning goal went in. Robbie is disappointed with the Crawley result, the tannoy man and Matthew Tubbs’ tackle. But maybe things will be better at Watford. Robbie also has some wise words (yes, really) for Liverpool fans.
Phil Brown takes charge of Preston for the first time since becoming manager. The last time he played on the Championship, he got promoted. With Hull. But even just saving Preston would be a bit of a miracle. Leicester are four points behind the play-offs and thinking of promotion. So they really ought to be able to beat Preston.
Craig Morgan could start again for Preston but he could also be on the bench or not there at all. It depends what his new manager thinks of him really. Paul Parry has a broken wrist but he’s back in full training and could play.
Andy King will definitely start for Leicester, as long as he has no last-minute injuries or illnesses.
Swansea City v Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace have the worst away record in the Championship, having won one away match this season – and while Swansea don’t quite have the best home record, they’re not far off.
Ashley Williams will start for Swansea but it’s hard to be sure about the others. Daniel Alfei, Joe Allen, David Cotterill and Jazz Richards have all played well in recent matches but there probably won’t be room for all of them. Neil Taylor has an ankle injury and will be out for a few more weeks.
Following Daniel Alfei’s impressive first-team debut, the Swansea youth boss, Tony Pennock, has said that Daniel has a big future ahead of him in professional football. Daniel hopes to keep his place against Palace.
Jermaine Easter’s loan spell at Swansea was cut short early – so parent club Milton Keynes Dons could sell him to Crystal Palace. Jermaine is looking to scoring for Palace and helping them climb the table. Although he’s only just signed, he could play against Swansea tomorrow.
Shaun MacDonald is hoping to fight his way into the Swansea first team. Shaun has spent the first half of the season on loan at Yeovil Town.
Andy Dorman and Lewis Price should be somewhere in Palace’s squad.
Watford v Derby County
Derby were doing really really well. They did have a slightly dodgy start but then they went on a run, then they went on a good home run, now they can’t even beat Crawley Town. But the last time Derby went on a run, they kicked things off with a victory over Watford.
Gareth Roberts and Robbie Savage might keep their places. Nigel Clough might still be in a mood about Crawley Town but Gareth and Robbie weren’t actually on the pitch when the winning goal went in. Robbie is disappointed with the Crawley result, the tannoy man and Matthew Tubbs’ tackle. But maybe things will be better at Watford. Robbie also has some wise words (yes, really) for Liverpool fans.
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
Wales News 12th january 2011
The Welsh FA still don’t want their players playing for Great Britain at the Olympics.
There’s been more speculation about the return of the Home International Championship. I think they should include the Republic of Ireland and then divide England into two teams, North England and South England, based on place of birth. That should even things up a bit.
Gary Speed likes the idea of reviving the Home International Championship but he says it couldn’t be a regular thing.
FA Wales have announced that Vauxhall will be their sponsors for the next three and a half years.
Tony Pulis would like to see Ryan Giggs playing for Wales again.
Gary Speed would like Danny Gabbidon and Simon Davies to come out of international retirement. He might even consider bringing Robbie Savage back. This is South Wales feels Wales should be grateful for what they can get.
Gary might also call up Wolverhampton Wanderers’ David Jones.
Ryan Shawcross is another possibility. The newspapers will have a field day if this happens… not that I’m hoping it won’t happen.
Wales Online suggest that Aaron Ramsey should be Wales’ new captain.
Neville Southall believes James Collins would be a better choice.
Andy King would like a bigger role with Wales.
There’s been more speculation about the return of the Home International Championship. I think they should include the Republic of Ireland and then divide England into two teams, North England and South England, based on place of birth. That should even things up a bit.
Gary Speed likes the idea of reviving the Home International Championship but he says it couldn’t be a regular thing.
FA Wales have announced that Vauxhall will be their sponsors for the next three and a half years.
Tony Pulis would like to see Ryan Giggs playing for Wales again.
Gary Speed would like Danny Gabbidon and Simon Davies to come out of international retirement. He might even consider bringing Robbie Savage back. This is South Wales feels Wales should be grateful for what they can get.
Gary might also call up Wolverhampton Wanderers’ David Jones.
Ryan Shawcross is another possibility. The newspapers will have a field day if this happens… not that I’m hoping it won’t happen.
Wales Online suggest that Aaron Ramsey should be Wales’ new captain.
Neville Southall believes James Collins would be a better choice.
Andy King would like a bigger role with Wales.
Saturday, 8 January 2011
FA Cup Fixtures 9th January 2011
Manchester United v Liverpool
The Premier League leaders take on Liverpool, four points outside the relegation zone, in the third round’s only all-Premier League tie. Kenny Dalglish is Liverpool’s manager following the departure of Roy Hodgson by ‘mutual consent’. Twelve months ago, Liverpool were knocked out by Reading while League One Leeds United beat Manchester United before nearly doing the same to Tottenham Hotspur.
Manchester United could rest players including Ryan Giggs but that could mean Michael Owen will get a chance. Owen Hargreaves is still out with a hamstring injury. Ryan is expecting a good performance from Liverpool but he says Manchester United will never end up like them.
Tottenham Hotspur v Charlton Athletic
Tottenham are expected to rest players against League One Charlton, who have never beaten Tottenham in the FA Cup. Tottenham’s eleven-match unbeaten run came to an end midweek when Gareth Bale got injured and had to be substituted. Charlton are without a win in five.
Gareth Bale has a slight back injury and probably deserved a rest anyway so he won’t play.
Chelsea v Ipswich Town
Managerless Ipswich have some easy matches over the next few days. Chelsea in the FA Cup, Arsenal in the Carling Cup. If they’re planning on doing any giant-killing, let’s hope it happens tomorrow. Ipswich have never beaten Chelsea in the FA Cup.
Troy Brown is likely to be in Ipswich’s squad.
Leicester City v Manchester City
There are giant-killings all over the place today. Manchester City will hope they’re not the next to suffer. Leicester, who have won all their (two) matches in 2011, are managed by former Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Andy King should start for Leicester.
The Premier League leaders take on Liverpool, four points outside the relegation zone, in the third round’s only all-Premier League tie. Kenny Dalglish is Liverpool’s manager following the departure of Roy Hodgson by ‘mutual consent’. Twelve months ago, Liverpool were knocked out by Reading while League One Leeds United beat Manchester United before nearly doing the same to Tottenham Hotspur.
Manchester United could rest players including Ryan Giggs but that could mean Michael Owen will get a chance. Owen Hargreaves is still out with a hamstring injury. Ryan is expecting a good performance from Liverpool but he says Manchester United will never end up like them.
Tottenham Hotspur v Charlton Athletic
Tottenham are expected to rest players against League One Charlton, who have never beaten Tottenham in the FA Cup. Tottenham’s eleven-match unbeaten run came to an end midweek when Gareth Bale got injured and had to be substituted. Charlton are without a win in five.
Gareth Bale has a slight back injury and probably deserved a rest anyway so he won’t play.
Chelsea v Ipswich Town
Managerless Ipswich have some easy matches over the next few days. Chelsea in the FA Cup, Arsenal in the Carling Cup. If they’re planning on doing any giant-killing, let’s hope it happens tomorrow. Ipswich have never beaten Chelsea in the FA Cup.
Troy Brown is likely to be in Ipswich’s squad.
Leicester City v Manchester City
There are giant-killings all over the place today. Manchester City will hope they’re not the next to suffer. Leicester, who have won all their (two) matches in 2011, are managed by former Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Andy King should start for Leicester.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Welsh Players Christmas-New Year matches 2010-11 (Championship, Part 2)
Coventry City
Freddy Eastwood got back from injury to discover Coventry were playing pretty well without him. But when he did finally start, he made sure he scored. And when he got his second start, he did exactly the same thing.
Norwich H 1-2 (bench, on 90)
Cardiff A 1-0 (bench, on 59)
QPR H 0-2 (bench, on 87)
Ipswich H 1-1 (starts, G1 48, off 89)
Barnsley A 2-1 (G1 35, played all)
Crystal Palace
Andy Dorman has had trouble settling in London and spent some time not being in the squad at all. But now he’s back in the squad and he even got a couple of starts over the Christmas period.
Forest A 1-0 (starts, off 46)
Bristol C A 0-1 (bench)
Millwall A 3-0 (bench)
Preston H 1-0 (played all)
Lewis Price continues to be Palace’s substitute goalkeeper, despite their recent issues with stopping goals from being scored against them.
Forest A 1-0 (bench)
Bristol C A 0-1 (bench)
Millwall A 3-0 (bench)
Preston H 1-0 (bench)
Derby County
Gareth Roberts has had a number of injury problems but when he was fit, he played the full match.
Reading H 1-2 (out, calf)
Forest A 5-2 (out, calf)
Preston A 1-2 (played all)
Millwall H 0-0 (out, calf)
Robbie Savage seems to have been around forever and one reason why it seems that way is because he hardly ever misses a match due to injury. Suspension, yes (although he’s only had about two red cards) and there was another example of this at Christmas. Injury, no. I think the Wales squad needs a few players who never get injured.
Reading H 1-2 (bench, on 46, Y 59 foul)
Forest A 5-2 (suspended)
Preston A 1-2 (A2 84, played all)
Millwall H 0-0 (starts, off 86)
Doncaster Rovers
John Oster seems to be getting less attention from the Press (perhaps partly because so many of Doncaster’s matches have been cancelled) but he’s still quietly getting on with the job and picking up assists.
Scunthorpe H 3-0 (A3 45+2m, played all)
Sheff Utd A 2-2 (played all)
Brian Stock managed to injure himself again but he too is getting assists and at least it wasn’t his troublesome back this time.
Scunthorpe H 3-0 (starts, A1 26, off 63)
Sheff Utd A 2-2 (out, leg)
Ipswich Town
Troy Brown has been in and out of Ipswich’s starting line-up as Roy Keane desperately tried to find a winning formula. The Ipswich board seemed to feel it was the manager who needed removing more than anything.
Leicester H 3-0 (bench)
Coventry A 1-1 (bench, on 87)
Forest H 0-1 (played all)
Leeds United
Sanchez Watt suffered an ankle injury in October and after several failed attempts to stick him straight back in the starting line-up, he was given a couple of months to rest. With Leeds on such a good run, it took Sanchez a while to get back into the matchday squad (although perhaps reports of his recovery were exaggerated) but luckily Leeds then went on a bit of a bad run and he his chance.
QPR H 2-0 (unselected)
Leicester A 2-2 (unselected)
Portsmouth H 3-3 (unselected)
Boro H 1-1 (bench, on 76)
Cardiff A 2-1 (bench, on 57)
Leicester City
Andy King has played every minute of Leicester’s Christmas and New Year fixtures as Leicester lost to struggling Ipswich Town and promoted team Millwall before beating two teams who were on a good run. Andy also added a goal and an assist (he won a free kick from which Leicester scored, undoubtedly one of the more painful ways of getting an assist) to his collection.
Ipswich A 3-0 (played all)
Leeds H 2-2 (G2 76, played all),
Millwall A 2-0 (played all)
Hull A 0-1 (played all)
Swansea H 2-1 (A1 won free kick 6, played all)
Middlesbrough
I don’t know if Danny Coyne got all hopeful when Middlesbrough got a new manager but I certainly did (no disrespect to the excellent and very promising Jason Steele) but Tony Mowbray has kept him on the bench.
Preston A 1-3 (bench)
Leeds A 1-1 (bench)
Norwich H 1-1 (bench)
As for poor Rhys Williams, I can only hope his pelvic nightmare is coming to an end. No doubt the Middlesbrough fans will echo my sentiments, and not just because they like the former Wales under-21 international.
Freddy Eastwood got back from injury to discover Coventry were playing pretty well without him. But when he did finally start, he made sure he scored. And when he got his second start, he did exactly the same thing.
Norwich H 1-2 (bench, on 90)
Cardiff A 1-0 (bench, on 59)
QPR H 0-2 (bench, on 87)
Ipswich H 1-1 (starts, G1 48, off 89)
Barnsley A 2-1 (G1 35, played all)
Crystal Palace
Andy Dorman has had trouble settling in London and spent some time not being in the squad at all. But now he’s back in the squad and he even got a couple of starts over the Christmas period.
Forest A 1-0 (starts, off 46)
Bristol C A 0-1 (bench)
Millwall A 3-0 (bench)
Preston H 1-0 (played all)
Lewis Price continues to be Palace’s substitute goalkeeper, despite their recent issues with stopping goals from being scored against them.
Forest A 1-0 (bench)
Bristol C A 0-1 (bench)
Millwall A 3-0 (bench)
Preston H 1-0 (bench)
Derby County
Gareth Roberts has had a number of injury problems but when he was fit, he played the full match.
Reading H 1-2 (out, calf)
Forest A 5-2 (out, calf)
Preston A 1-2 (played all)
Millwall H 0-0 (out, calf)
Robbie Savage seems to have been around forever and one reason why it seems that way is because he hardly ever misses a match due to injury. Suspension, yes (although he’s only had about two red cards) and there was another example of this at Christmas. Injury, no. I think the Wales squad needs a few players who never get injured.
Reading H 1-2 (bench, on 46, Y 59 foul)
Forest A 5-2 (suspended)
Preston A 1-2 (A2 84, played all)
Millwall H 0-0 (starts, off 86)
Doncaster Rovers
John Oster seems to be getting less attention from the Press (perhaps partly because so many of Doncaster’s matches have been cancelled) but he’s still quietly getting on with the job and picking up assists.
Scunthorpe H 3-0 (A3 45+2m, played all)
Sheff Utd A 2-2 (played all)
Brian Stock managed to injure himself again but he too is getting assists and at least it wasn’t his troublesome back this time.
Scunthorpe H 3-0 (starts, A1 26, off 63)
Sheff Utd A 2-2 (out, leg)
Ipswich Town
Troy Brown has been in and out of Ipswich’s starting line-up as Roy Keane desperately tried to find a winning formula. The Ipswich board seemed to feel it was the manager who needed removing more than anything.
Leicester H 3-0 (bench)
Coventry A 1-1 (bench, on 87)
Forest H 0-1 (played all)
Leeds United
Sanchez Watt suffered an ankle injury in October and after several failed attempts to stick him straight back in the starting line-up, he was given a couple of months to rest. With Leeds on such a good run, it took Sanchez a while to get back into the matchday squad (although perhaps reports of his recovery were exaggerated) but luckily Leeds then went on a bit of a bad run and he his chance.
QPR H 2-0 (unselected)
Leicester A 2-2 (unselected)
Portsmouth H 3-3 (unselected)
Boro H 1-1 (bench, on 76)
Cardiff A 2-1 (bench, on 57)
Leicester City
Andy King has played every minute of Leicester’s Christmas and New Year fixtures as Leicester lost to struggling Ipswich Town and promoted team Millwall before beating two teams who were on a good run. Andy also added a goal and an assist (he won a free kick from which Leicester scored, undoubtedly one of the more painful ways of getting an assist) to his collection.
Ipswich A 3-0 (played all)
Leeds H 2-2 (G2 76, played all),
Millwall A 2-0 (played all)
Hull A 0-1 (played all)
Swansea H 2-1 (A1 won free kick 6, played all)
Middlesbrough
I don’t know if Danny Coyne got all hopeful when Middlesbrough got a new manager but I certainly did (no disrespect to the excellent and very promising Jason Steele) but Tony Mowbray has kept him on the bench.
Preston A 1-3 (bench)
Leeds A 1-1 (bench)
Norwich H 1-1 (bench)
As for poor Rhys Williams, I can only hope his pelvic nightmare is coming to an end. No doubt the Middlesbrough fans will echo my sentiments, and not just because they like the former Wales under-21 international.
Saturday, 18 December 2010
Championship Fixtures (and Postponements) 18th December 2010 (Part 2)
Ipswich Town v Leicester City
Six defeats on the spin have left Ipswich just three points from the relegation zone. I seem to have recollections of them being unbeaten in the league, then unbeaten at home… but that seems like such a long tme ago and it probably seems like even longer if you’re an Ipswich fan.
Even more worryingly, Roy Keane thinks he’s been too nice to his players. Now there’s a scary thought.
Leicester could be feeling confident after thrashing Doncaster Rovers 5-1 last weekend. Or they could be feeling worried after losing their last two away games.
Troy Brown could keep his place in Ipswich’s defence but considering they can only beat Premier League teams at the moment, Roy Keane might make a few changes.
Andy King will start for Leicester.
Elliott Chamberlain is apparently on trial with Blue Square Premier club Oxford United. I did wonder if it was an old article but I think they just got the league wrong.
Leeds United v Queen’s Park Rangers
QPR’s long unbeaten run came to an end last weekend when Watford beat them 3-1. They can’t even comfort themselves by remembering that they still remain unbeaten at home. Not when this match is away. Leeds are unbeaten in eight matches. So they’ve still got a way to go before they match what QPR achieved.
Sanchez Watt is apparently in contention for a place in the squad but I know what Leeds are like, I’ll believe it when I see it. He scored in a behind-closed-doors match where Leeds beat Newcastle United 4-1.
Millwall v Barnsley
Barnsley are unbeaten in five matches – three points from the play-offs, and not forgetting their game in hand. But Millwall are just one point behind them and unbeaten in four. They also have the home advantage: Barnsley have only won twice away.
Millwall’s striker crisis has probably eased a bit by now but even so, they’ll almost certainly pick Steve Morison. And Kenny Jackett says Nottingham Forest haven’t made a bid for Steve which is good news.
Nottingham Forest v Crystal Palace
I don’t want to speak to soon but for the moment it looks like Nottingham Forest might actually be able to play their match this time. Their last two have fallen victim to the weather.
Forest are the only team in the Championship who are still unbeaten at home and they’ll be hoping things stay that way. If they draw again they’ll still be unbeaten but they’ll have drawn half their league matches this season. Palace have only one win – and one draw – from away games this season.
Aaron Ramsey is probably struggling to build up match fitness as there have’t been any matches but he should get a substitute appearance in this one. If it happens.
Chris Gunter and Robert Earnshaw should start.
Lewis Price and Andy Dorman will probably be on the bench for Palace.
Six defeats on the spin have left Ipswich just three points from the relegation zone. I seem to have recollections of them being unbeaten in the league, then unbeaten at home… but that seems like such a long tme ago and it probably seems like even longer if you’re an Ipswich fan.
Even more worryingly, Roy Keane thinks he’s been too nice to his players. Now there’s a scary thought.
Leicester could be feeling confident after thrashing Doncaster Rovers 5-1 last weekend. Or they could be feeling worried after losing their last two away games.
Troy Brown could keep his place in Ipswich’s defence but considering they can only beat Premier League teams at the moment, Roy Keane might make a few changes.
Andy King will start for Leicester.
Elliott Chamberlain is apparently on trial with Blue Square Premier club Oxford United. I did wonder if it was an old article but I think they just got the league wrong.
Leeds United v Queen’s Park Rangers
QPR’s long unbeaten run came to an end last weekend when Watford beat them 3-1. They can’t even comfort themselves by remembering that they still remain unbeaten at home. Not when this match is away. Leeds are unbeaten in eight matches. So they’ve still got a way to go before they match what QPR achieved.
Sanchez Watt is apparently in contention for a place in the squad but I know what Leeds are like, I’ll believe it when I see it. He scored in a behind-closed-doors match where Leeds beat Newcastle United 4-1.
Millwall v Barnsley
Barnsley are unbeaten in five matches – three points from the play-offs, and not forgetting their game in hand. But Millwall are just one point behind them and unbeaten in four. They also have the home advantage: Barnsley have only won twice away.
Millwall’s striker crisis has probably eased a bit by now but even so, they’ll almost certainly pick Steve Morison. And Kenny Jackett says Nottingham Forest haven’t made a bid for Steve which is good news.
Nottingham Forest v Crystal Palace
I don’t want to speak to soon but for the moment it looks like Nottingham Forest might actually be able to play their match this time. Their last two have fallen victim to the weather.
Forest are the only team in the Championship who are still unbeaten at home and they’ll be hoping things stay that way. If they draw again they’ll still be unbeaten but they’ll have drawn half their league matches this season. Palace have only one win – and one draw – from away games this season.
Aaron Ramsey is probably struggling to build up match fitness as there have’t been any matches but he should get a substitute appearance in this one. If it happens.
Chris Gunter and Robert Earnshaw should start.
Lewis Price and Andy Dorman will probably be on the bench for Palace.
Thursday, 16 December 2010
Championship Results 11th December 2010 (Part 2)
Crystal Palace 0-0 Hull City
Palace were back in the relegation zone despite drawing against Hull, who are themselves only two points clear.
Lewis Price and Andy Dorman stayed on the bench for Palace.
Leicester City 5-1 Doncaster Rovers
Doncaster took the lead as early as the sixth minute but they were unable to build on it – and even if they had, it might not have been enough with Leicester in such a rampant mood. Whatever Sven-Goran Eriksson gave the Leicester players at half-time, I want some.
Andy King played well for Leicester and provided the assist for their third and fifth goals. He nearly scored a couple too.
Brian Stock and John Oster played the full match for Doncaster but they probably didn’t enjoy it as much as Andy.
Middlesbrough 1-0 Cardiff City
Who could have predicted this? True, Cardiff have stuttered of late – losing to Queen’s Park Rangers was disappointing, while drawing with Preston North End was just embarrassing – but now Cardiff lose to Middlesbrough, who are even now only out of the relegation places on goal difference.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Craig Bellamy was the only Welshman to feature for Cardiff but he couldn’t find the back of the net, only the side of it. Darcy Blake (who has been ill recently) and Adam Matthews were on the bench, while Jason Koumas was kept out presumably by his toe injury.
Palace were back in the relegation zone despite drawing against Hull, who are themselves only two points clear.
Lewis Price and Andy Dorman stayed on the bench for Palace.
Leicester City 5-1 Doncaster Rovers
Doncaster took the lead as early as the sixth minute but they were unable to build on it – and even if they had, it might not have been enough with Leicester in such a rampant mood. Whatever Sven-Goran Eriksson gave the Leicester players at half-time, I want some.
Andy King played well for Leicester and provided the assist for their third and fifth goals. He nearly scored a couple too.
Brian Stock and John Oster played the full match for Doncaster but they probably didn’t enjoy it as much as Andy.
Middlesbrough 1-0 Cardiff City
Who could have predicted this? True, Cardiff have stuttered of late – losing to Queen’s Park Rangers was disappointing, while drawing with Preston North End was just embarrassing – but now Cardiff lose to Middlesbrough, who are even now only out of the relegation places on goal difference.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Craig Bellamy was the only Welshman to feature for Cardiff but he couldn’t find the back of the net, only the side of it. Darcy Blake (who has been ill recently) and Adam Matthews were on the bench, while Jason Koumas was kept out presumably by his toe injury.
Sunday, 12 December 2010
Championship Results 4th December 2010 (Part 2)
Ipswich Town 1-3 Swansea City
Ipswich have forgotten how to win against Championship sides so Swansea ended up getting all three points, thus putting pressure on Cardiff, which Swansea probably didn’t mind doing at all.
Troy Brown kept his place in Ipswich’s starting line-up.
The only good thing about Swansea’s result is that Joe Allen scored again. It’s good for Wales. It’s probably also good for Wales that Ashley Williams and Neil Taylor only let one goal in. It seems like a horrible thing to happen but I’m sure it’s good really. David Cotterill was left on the bench which is a bit of a waste but maybe he’s saving his goals for Wales. Jermaine Easter finally made his Swansea debut. If he can go on a scoring run, that could be great for Wales too.
Leeds United 2-1 Crystal Palace
Leeds are unbeaten in seven after the double promotion hopefuls beat the surviving-by-the-skin-of-our-teeth-again hopefuls.
Sanchez Watt wasn’t in Leeds’ squad.
Lewis Price and Andy Dorman was unused substitutes for Palace.
Millwall 3-0 Scunthorpe United
Scunthorpe won the play-off final the season before last but Millwall are winning the race to stay there. My dad says they could have got four but that would have lifted Crystal Palace out of the relegation zone and no Millwall fan would want that.
Steve Morison scored not once but twice for Millwall.
Watford 3-2 Leicester City
Watford’s run of five matches without a win came to an end in this match but Leicester are five points outside the play-offs so it could be worse.
Andy King played 63 minutes for Leicester. I hope that was a tactical substitution rather than another injury.
Ipswich have forgotten how to win against Championship sides so Swansea ended up getting all three points, thus putting pressure on Cardiff, which Swansea probably didn’t mind doing at all.
Troy Brown kept his place in Ipswich’s starting line-up.
The only good thing about Swansea’s result is that Joe Allen scored again. It’s good for Wales. It’s probably also good for Wales that Ashley Williams and Neil Taylor only let one goal in. It seems like a horrible thing to happen but I’m sure it’s good really. David Cotterill was left on the bench which is a bit of a waste but maybe he’s saving his goals for Wales. Jermaine Easter finally made his Swansea debut. If he can go on a scoring run, that could be great for Wales too.
Leeds United 2-1 Crystal Palace
Leeds are unbeaten in seven after the double promotion hopefuls beat the surviving-by-the-skin-of-our-teeth-again hopefuls.
Sanchez Watt wasn’t in Leeds’ squad.
Lewis Price and Andy Dorman was unused substitutes for Palace.
Millwall 3-0 Scunthorpe United
Scunthorpe won the play-off final the season before last but Millwall are winning the race to stay there. My dad says they could have got four but that would have lifted Crystal Palace out of the relegation zone and no Millwall fan would want that.
Steve Morison scored not once but twice for Millwall.
Watford 3-2 Leicester City
Watford’s run of five matches without a win came to an end in this match but Leicester are five points outside the play-offs so it could be worse.
Andy King played 63 minutes for Leicester. I hope that was a tactical substitution rather than another injury.
Saturday, 11 December 2010
Championship Fixtures 11th December 2010 (Part 2)
Leicester City v Doncaster Rovers
Leicester have lost two of their last three matches but the one they won was a home game and they actually haven’t lost a home league game since mid-September and even then that was only Queen’s Park Rangers and they were beating everyone then. And the last time they lost a home game to a team who wasn’t QPR was in August. Doncaster have been doing really well but they’re not QPR. And their last away win at Leicester was only a year off being Victorian.
Andy King should start for Leicester.
Middlesbrough v Cardiff City
Cardiff have another bug. The last two times I visited Cardiff, I came back with a bug. It’s ny favourite city in the world but something’s wrong there.
Cardiff seriously need a win too as Swansea City are only behind on goal difference.but Middlesbrough don’t stop many teams from beating them. Cardiff are strong away from home though, having won more away matches than any other team in the Championship.
Darcy Blake has recovered from his bug, Jason Koumas has recovered from a toe injury and I’m sure someone would have mentioned it if Craig Bellamy might not be able to play – especially as he’s a hat-trick away from his 150th career goal. I don’t know about Adam Matthews and Aaron Wildig but if they’re okay, their chances of starting have probably increased.
Craig believes Cardiff can still win the league but they need one or two January signings.
Danny Coyne will probably be on the bench for Boro. Rhys Williams is still out with a pelvis injury.
Norwich City v Portsmouth
Norwich are unbeaten in five. Most of those matches were draws but they’re still fourth. Portsmouth aren’t even in the top half of the table and might not be even if they win but Portsmouth have got a pattern thing going. They lose seven… they win seven. They lose four… they win… one. So that looks like three wins to come, one of them against Portsmouth. Norwich must be so glad runs like that don’t mean anything.
Andrew Crofts should start for Norwich. Owain Tudur Jones could be on the bench again after doing nothing wrong as far as I can see in his cameo appearance last week. Manager Paul Lambert says Owain still has a role to play for the club.
Leicester have lost two of their last three matches but the one they won was a home game and they actually haven’t lost a home league game since mid-September and even then that was only Queen’s Park Rangers and they were beating everyone then. And the last time they lost a home game to a team who wasn’t QPR was in August. Doncaster have been doing really well but they’re not QPR. And their last away win at Leicester was only a year off being Victorian.
Andy King should start for Leicester.
Middlesbrough v Cardiff City
Cardiff have another bug. The last two times I visited Cardiff, I came back with a bug. It’s ny favourite city in the world but something’s wrong there.
Cardiff seriously need a win too as Swansea City are only behind on goal difference.but Middlesbrough don’t stop many teams from beating them. Cardiff are strong away from home though, having won more away matches than any other team in the Championship.
Darcy Blake has recovered from his bug, Jason Koumas has recovered from a toe injury and I’m sure someone would have mentioned it if Craig Bellamy might not be able to play – especially as he’s a hat-trick away from his 150th career goal. I don’t know about Adam Matthews and Aaron Wildig but if they’re okay, their chances of starting have probably increased.
Craig believes Cardiff can still win the league but they need one or two January signings.
Danny Coyne will probably be on the bench for Boro. Rhys Williams is still out with a pelvis injury.
Norwich City v Portsmouth
Norwich are unbeaten in five. Most of those matches were draws but they’re still fourth. Portsmouth aren’t even in the top half of the table and might not be even if they win but Portsmouth have got a pattern thing going. They lose seven… they win seven. They lose four… they win… one. So that looks like three wins to come, one of them against Portsmouth. Norwich must be so glad runs like that don’t mean anything.
Andrew Crofts should start for Norwich. Owain Tudur Jones could be on the bench again after doing nothing wrong as far as I can see in his cameo appearance last week. Manager Paul Lambert says Owain still has a role to play for the club.
Saturday, 4 December 2010
Championship Fixtures (and Postponements) 4th December 2010 (Part 2)
Ipswich Town v Swansea City
Ipswich haven’t beaten Swansea since they were both in the top division together which must have been a very long time ago. Ipswich are hoping to avoid a fifth consecutive defeat.
Troy Brown played well in Ipswich’s Carling Cup win over West Bromwich Albion but he’s not expected to keep his place.
Jermaine Easter is yet to make his debut for loan club Swansea after injuring his thigh. He will have a fitness test to determine whether he’s able to play in this match. If he does, it will be his 250th career league appearance. Ashley Williams, Neil Taylor, Joe Allen and David Cotterill will also hope to start – but if not they should be on the bench.
Leeds United v Crystal Palace
Palace could be out of the bottom three if they manage to beat or even just draw with Leeds but with Leeds unbeaten in five matches, that’s a big if. Palace’s away form is identical to Middlesbrough’s which kind of says it all really.
Sanchez Watt has apparently recovered from his ankle injury but he’s yet to appear in a Leeds squad.
Palace are short of midfielders which could see Andy Dorman’s first start since it was revealed he was having trouble adapting to the Championship. Lewis Price will also hope to return to the bench.
Millwall v Scunthorpe United
Millwall will attempt to beat one of the Championship’s struggling sides in an effort not to become one of them themselves.
Steve Morison should start for Millwall.
Nottingham Forest P-P Bristol City
This match has been postponed as the streets of Nottingham are hazardous.
Aaron Ramsey will hope Forest’s fixtures don’t all get postponed now he’s joined them on loan. He was glad to get back to playing against Leicester City. And it’s not just you who’s glad, Aaron.
Chris Gunter says Aaron is mentally stronger after his injury.
Christian Ribeiro seems to be making the right back spot his own – Bristol City were relieved when he was declared fit to play in this weekend’s match – although obviously he won’t be playing now.
Sam Vokes was expected to play in a behind-closed-doors friendly for Bristol City but it’s not clear whether this happened or not.
Sheffield United P-P Reading
This match has been postponed as it’s just too cold.
Watford v Leicester City
Leicester hope to win their fifth games in seven matches but the last seven matches have been less kind to Watford, who haven’t won any of them.
Andy King returned from injury with a bang last weekend. He says Leicester aren’t scared of anyone and they could get promoted.
Ipswich haven’t beaten Swansea since they were both in the top division together which must have been a very long time ago. Ipswich are hoping to avoid a fifth consecutive defeat.
Troy Brown played well in Ipswich’s Carling Cup win over West Bromwich Albion but he’s not expected to keep his place.
Jermaine Easter is yet to make his debut for loan club Swansea after injuring his thigh. He will have a fitness test to determine whether he’s able to play in this match. If he does, it will be his 250th career league appearance. Ashley Williams, Neil Taylor, Joe Allen and David Cotterill will also hope to start – but if not they should be on the bench.
Leeds United v Crystal Palace
Palace could be out of the bottom three if they manage to beat or even just draw with Leeds but with Leeds unbeaten in five matches, that’s a big if. Palace’s away form is identical to Middlesbrough’s which kind of says it all really.
Sanchez Watt has apparently recovered from his ankle injury but he’s yet to appear in a Leeds squad.
Palace are short of midfielders which could see Andy Dorman’s first start since it was revealed he was having trouble adapting to the Championship. Lewis Price will also hope to return to the bench.
Millwall v Scunthorpe United
Millwall will attempt to beat one of the Championship’s struggling sides in an effort not to become one of them themselves.
Steve Morison should start for Millwall.
Nottingham Forest P-P Bristol City
This match has been postponed as the streets of Nottingham are hazardous.
Aaron Ramsey will hope Forest’s fixtures don’t all get postponed now he’s joined them on loan. He was glad to get back to playing against Leicester City. And it’s not just you who’s glad, Aaron.
Chris Gunter says Aaron is mentally stronger after his injury.
Christian Ribeiro seems to be making the right back spot his own – Bristol City were relieved when he was declared fit to play in this weekend’s match – although obviously he won’t be playing now.
Sam Vokes was expected to play in a behind-closed-doors friendly for Bristol City but it’s not clear whether this happened or not.
Sheffield United P-P Reading
This match has been postponed as it’s just too cold.
Watford v Leicester City
Leicester hope to win their fifth games in seven matches but the last seven matches have been less kind to Watford, who haven’t won any of them.
Andy King returned from injury with a bang last weekend. He says Leicester aren’t scared of anyone and they could get promoted.
Monday, 29 November 2010
Championship Fixture 29th November 2010
Leicester City v Nottingham Forest
Leicester haven’t lost at home since they played Queen’s Park Rangers – and no-one beats QPR.
Andy King was substituted due to a hamstring injury in Leicester’s last match. Some reports say he’s fit, some say he’s not.
BBC Sport suggests Forest’s new loan star Aaron Ramsey could start but it sounds a bit soon to me. Chris Gunter, who can now add ‘scout’ to his resume after helping to arrange Aaron’a loan move, should start. Robert Earnshaw could miss out due to illness.
Aaron’s former side Cardiff wanted to sign him on loan but they wouldn’t have wanted to give him back to Arsenal in January. I’m sure Leicester won’t either.
Leicester haven’t lost at home since they played Queen’s Park Rangers – and no-one beats QPR.
Andy King was substituted due to a hamstring injury in Leicester’s last match. Some reports say he’s fit, some say he’s not.
BBC Sport suggests Forest’s new loan star Aaron Ramsey could start but it sounds a bit soon to me. Chris Gunter, who can now add ‘scout’ to his resume after helping to arrange Aaron’a loan move, should start. Robert Earnshaw could miss out due to illness.
Aaron’s former side Cardiff wanted to sign him on loan but they wouldn’t have wanted to give him back to Arsenal in January. I’m sure Leicester won’t either.
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
Championship Results 20th November 2010 (Part 1)
Bristol City 2-0 Leicester City
Bristol City got a shock win (well, I was shocked) against former fellow strugglers Leicester and moved out of the bottom three. They are now just two points behind Leicester, who might count as fellow strugglers again.
Leicester could have taken the lead but after Andy King was fouled by keeper David James but James saved the resulting penalty. Andy suffered a hamstring injury in the first half but his manager doesn’t think it’s serious.
Christian Ribeiro was back in Bristol City’s starting line-up and played really well at right back. Brett Pitman wasa half-time substitute and scored his first Bristol City goal in the 57th minute. Brett is hoping to score lots of goals this level and he hopes more will come now he’s found his feet. I can only agree, if you haven’t found your feet you can only really score with headers.
Cardiff City 0-2 Nottingham Forest
It’s not Nottingham Forest winning that is the shock – more the fact Cardiff lost. At home. With Craig Bellamy on the pitch. They’re now only three points ahead of Swansea City, although Cardiff do of course have a far superior goal difference. Forest’s win puts them into the top six.
Craig and Darcy Blake both started for Cardiff, with Adam Matthews replacing Darcy late on but Cardiff still couldn’t find a goal although Craig came close. Aaron Wildig was on the bench.
Cardiff seemed very happy to see former favourite Robert Earnshaw, who nearly scored against his former club but seemed less well-disposed towards another of their former players, right back Chris Gunter.
Coventry City 1-0 Burnley
Burnley remain without their first win of the season after Coventry bounced back from a disappointing run to take the three points. Coventry are only outside the play-offs on goal difference but Burnley will struggle for a top six finish if they can’t learn how to win away.
Freddy Eastwood was an unused substitute for Coventry.
Derby County 3-2 Scunthorpe United
Derby won their sixth successive home game against Scunthorpe, who are usually better away than they are at home. Derby are up in fourth place and are the league’s top scorers, having scored four more than QPR and Burnley.
Gareth Roberts was back in the starting line-up for the first time since his recent injury problems but he didn’t last long – the defender was sent off for two bookable offences. Scunthorpe scored from the resulting penalty but Derby hung on to take all three points. Robbie Savage made his 500th league appearance in this match. His 500th start is not far away.
Bristol City got a shock win (well, I was shocked) against former fellow strugglers Leicester and moved out of the bottom three. They are now just two points behind Leicester, who might count as fellow strugglers again.
Leicester could have taken the lead but after Andy King was fouled by keeper David James but James saved the resulting penalty. Andy suffered a hamstring injury in the first half but his manager doesn’t think it’s serious.
Christian Ribeiro was back in Bristol City’s starting line-up and played really well at right back. Brett Pitman wasa half-time substitute and scored his first Bristol City goal in the 57th minute. Brett is hoping to score lots of goals this level and he hopes more will come now he’s found his feet. I can only agree, if you haven’t found your feet you can only really score with headers.
Cardiff City 0-2 Nottingham Forest
It’s not Nottingham Forest winning that is the shock – more the fact Cardiff lost. At home. With Craig Bellamy on the pitch. They’re now only three points ahead of Swansea City, although Cardiff do of course have a far superior goal difference. Forest’s win puts them into the top six.
Craig and Darcy Blake both started for Cardiff, with Adam Matthews replacing Darcy late on but Cardiff still couldn’t find a goal although Craig came close. Aaron Wildig was on the bench.
Cardiff seemed very happy to see former favourite Robert Earnshaw, who nearly scored against his former club but seemed less well-disposed towards another of their former players, right back Chris Gunter.
Coventry City 1-0 Burnley
Burnley remain without their first win of the season after Coventry bounced back from a disappointing run to take the three points. Coventry are only outside the play-offs on goal difference but Burnley will struggle for a top six finish if they can’t learn how to win away.
Freddy Eastwood was an unused substitute for Coventry.
Derby County 3-2 Scunthorpe United
Derby won their sixth successive home game against Scunthorpe, who are usually better away than they are at home. Derby are up in fourth place and are the league’s top scorers, having scored four more than QPR and Burnley.
Gareth Roberts was back in the starting line-up for the first time since his recent injury problems but he didn’t last long – the defender was sent off for two bookable offences. Scunthorpe scored from the resulting penalty but Derby hung on to take all three points. Robbie Savage made his 500th league appearance in this match. His 500th start is not far away.
Saturday, 20 November 2010
Championship Fixtures/News 20th November 2010 (Part 1)
Bristol City v Leicester City
Bristol City have just come to the end of a five-match unbeaten run – and they’re still in the bottom three with only one home win this season. Leicester know how that feels but they won’t let any sympathy get the better of them.
Christian Ribeiro is in with a chance of starting following an injury to the first-choice right back. hesitate to describe this as good news but I hope he’s on the bench at least.
Brett Pitman will hope his good performances in the reserves will help him to get a start for Bristol City.
Christian and Brett were part of the Bristol City side who beat Forest Green Rovers 13-12 on penalties (I’m sure it’s better than it sounds!) to go through to the final of the Gloucester Senior Challenge Cup. Christian scored a penalty while Brett scored the late goal that took the game to penalties. Brett missed his first penalty but scored his second.
Sam Vokes still isn’t ready to return to action for Bristol City but he will play in a friendly reserve game against parent club Wolverhampton Wanderers which should be interesting.
Andy King will be in midfield for Leicester – and he says he’s very happy at the club.
Cardiff City v Nottingham Forest
Only a win will ensure Cardiff stay top of the Championship – and then only if it’s a home win. Forest haven’t won in Cardiff since before the Welsh internationals were born. Even Ryan Giggs was only two or three. As for the time before that, not even the stats people at BBC Sport seem completely sure.
Craig Bellamy has showed on many occasions why he were playing Premier League football last year although it’s still unclear exactly why his manager as stupid enough to let them go. If Craig plays, it will be his 350th appearance for clubs in the English and Scottish league systems according to BBC Sport (note how carefully they left Wales out).
Jason Koumas has taken longer to adapt but he has promised Cardiff fans he’ll be back to his best soon – and he could start if Chris Burke fails to recover from injury.
Darcy Blake suffered a muscle injury in Cardiff’s win over Scunthorpe and faces a fitness test. Adam Matthews could also have a chance of starting but Aaron Wildig seems to have been forgotten about. But not by me, Aaron.
Forest defender Chris Gunter is likely to make his 100th league appearance against his former club and Robert Earnshaw, who has also played for Cardiff, will also hope to start. Rob believes Cardiff will be promoted this season – but no doubt he hopes Forest can put a big dent in their ambitions first!
Coventry City v Burnley
Coventry have lost three games in a row so they’ll be eager to beat Burnley, who aren’t as strong away as they are at home. They have six points this season from away matches – but none of them came from wins.
Freddy Eastwood, who made his return from knee surgery last weekend, is hoping he can give manager Aidy Boothroyd a nice selection headache.
Bristol City have just come to the end of a five-match unbeaten run – and they’re still in the bottom three with only one home win this season. Leicester know how that feels but they won’t let any sympathy get the better of them.
Christian Ribeiro is in with a chance of starting following an injury to the first-choice right back. hesitate to describe this as good news but I hope he’s on the bench at least.
Brett Pitman will hope his good performances in the reserves will help him to get a start for Bristol City.
Christian and Brett were part of the Bristol City side who beat Forest Green Rovers 13-12 on penalties (I’m sure it’s better than it sounds!) to go through to the final of the Gloucester Senior Challenge Cup. Christian scored a penalty while Brett scored the late goal that took the game to penalties. Brett missed his first penalty but scored his second.
Sam Vokes still isn’t ready to return to action for Bristol City but he will play in a friendly reserve game against parent club Wolverhampton Wanderers which should be interesting.
Andy King will be in midfield for Leicester – and he says he’s very happy at the club.
Cardiff City v Nottingham Forest
Only a win will ensure Cardiff stay top of the Championship – and then only if it’s a home win. Forest haven’t won in Cardiff since before the Welsh internationals were born. Even Ryan Giggs was only two or three. As for the time before that, not even the stats people at BBC Sport seem completely sure.
Craig Bellamy has showed on many occasions why he were playing Premier League football last year although it’s still unclear exactly why his manager as stupid enough to let them go. If Craig plays, it will be his 350th appearance for clubs in the English and Scottish league systems according to BBC Sport (note how carefully they left Wales out).
Jason Koumas has taken longer to adapt but he has promised Cardiff fans he’ll be back to his best soon – and he could start if Chris Burke fails to recover from injury.
Darcy Blake suffered a muscle injury in Cardiff’s win over Scunthorpe and faces a fitness test. Adam Matthews could also have a chance of starting but Aaron Wildig seems to have been forgotten about. But not by me, Aaron.
Forest defender Chris Gunter is likely to make his 100th league appearance against his former club and Robert Earnshaw, who has also played for Cardiff, will also hope to start. Rob believes Cardiff will be promoted this season – but no doubt he hopes Forest can put a big dent in their ambitions first!
Coventry City v Burnley
Coventry have lost three games in a row so they’ll be eager to beat Burnley, who aren’t as strong away as they are at home. They have six points this season from away matches – but none of them came from wins.
Freddy Eastwood, who made his return from knee surgery last weekend, is hoping he can give manager Aidy Boothroyd a nice selection headache.
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Championship Results 13th November 2010 (Part 1)
Crystal Palace 2-0 Coventry City
Crystal Palace climbed above Preston with a surprise victory over Coventry, who drop to eleventh but remain only two points outside the play-off places.
Andy Dorman was missing from Palace’s team but Lewis Price was back on the bench after recovering from a back injury.
Freddy Eastwood came off the bench after 71 minutes, making his first appearance since recovering from a knee operation.
Ipswich Town 1-3 Barnsley
Barnsley won away for the second time this season as Ipswich showed that perhaps they’re not back to their early season form after all. By the end, the Ipswich fans were cheering Barnsley but it was the home team who got a late goal.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Leeds United 3-1 Bristol City
Leeds got their first home win for nearly three months against a Bristol City team who were unbeaten in five. Hard to imagine and if I had my spreadsheets I would check that (too lazy to look at every match report) but as I don’t I’ll take BBC Sport’s word for it. They don’t usually do anything too badly wrong although they did once say Middlesbrough keeper Danny Coyne was on the bench when he was actually playing.
Speaking of goalkeepers, Leeds’ own Welsh keeper, Jason Brown (well actually he’s not their own keeper, he’s Blackburn’s) really was on the bench but Sanchez Watt wasn’t ready to return from an ankle injury after all. Jason returned to Blackburn after this match as his loan spell had come to an end but Leeds manager Simon Grayson says he’s good to have around the place.
Brett Pitman, who got thirty-four minutes of action, was Bristol City’s only Welsh representative. And technically he’s not even that. I don’t think he’s chosen his country yet.
Leicester City 2-0 Derby County
Leicester move five points clear of the relegation zone after an excellent win over in-form Derby
Andy King scored Leicester’s first goal after thirteen minutes. and got himself into the Championship Team of the Week.
Robbie Savage missed out on the chance to face his former club as he wasft on the bench. And Derby lost, what a coincidence. Gareth Roberts wasn’t selected due to a back problem. His place on the bench was taken by a second goalkeeper.
Robbie thinks people are starting to like him. Well, I'm not starting to like you, Robbie. I've loved him for a long time now.
Millwalll 0-1 Sheffield United
Millwall are off on another winless run as Sheffield United ended a winless run of their own. Millwall played well and probably deserved an equaliser at least but it didn’t happen.
Steve Morison was back from suspension for Millwall.
Ched Evans got to start for Sheffield United but it wasn’t his goal.
Crystal Palace climbed above Preston with a surprise victory over Coventry, who drop to eleventh but remain only two points outside the play-off places.
Andy Dorman was missing from Palace’s team but Lewis Price was back on the bench after recovering from a back injury.
Freddy Eastwood came off the bench after 71 minutes, making his first appearance since recovering from a knee operation.
Ipswich Town 1-3 Barnsley
Barnsley won away for the second time this season as Ipswich showed that perhaps they’re not back to their early season form after all. By the end, the Ipswich fans were cheering Barnsley but it was the home team who got a late goal.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Leeds United 3-1 Bristol City
Leeds got their first home win for nearly three months against a Bristol City team who were unbeaten in five. Hard to imagine and if I had my spreadsheets I would check that (too lazy to look at every match report) but as I don’t I’ll take BBC Sport’s word for it. They don’t usually do anything too badly wrong although they did once say Middlesbrough keeper Danny Coyne was on the bench when he was actually playing.
Speaking of goalkeepers, Leeds’ own Welsh keeper, Jason Brown (well actually he’s not their own keeper, he’s Blackburn’s) really was on the bench but Sanchez Watt wasn’t ready to return from an ankle injury after all. Jason returned to Blackburn after this match as his loan spell had come to an end but Leeds manager Simon Grayson says he’s good to have around the place.
Brett Pitman, who got thirty-four minutes of action, was Bristol City’s only Welsh representative. And technically he’s not even that. I don’t think he’s chosen his country yet.
Leicester City 2-0 Derby County
Leicester move five points clear of the relegation zone after an excellent win over in-form Derby
Andy King scored Leicester’s first goal after thirteen minutes. and got himself into the Championship Team of the Week.
Robbie Savage missed out on the chance to face his former club as he wasft on the bench. And Derby lost, what a coincidence. Gareth Roberts wasn’t selected due to a back problem. His place on the bench was taken by a second goalkeeper.
Robbie thinks people are starting to like him. Well, I'm not starting to like you, Robbie. I've loved him for a long time now.
Millwalll 0-1 Sheffield United
Millwall are off on another winless run as Sheffield United ended a winless run of their own. Millwall played well and probably deserved an equaliser at least but it didn’t happen.
Steve Morison was back from suspension for Millwall.
Ched Evans got to start for Sheffield United but it wasn’t his goal.
Monday, 8 November 2010
Championship Results 6th November 2010 (Part 1)
Barnsley 0-2 Leicester City
Leicester won only their second away game of the season to beat Barnsley.and get a second consecutive win.
Andy King scored twice for Leicester but the first one was offside. The stand-in captain got the winner four minutes from the end of the match.
Bristol City 1-1 Preston North End
Bristol City’s problem at home continue – they have only six points from their eight home games.
Brett Pitman was a late substitute for Bristol City and had a late chance to grab a winner.
Craig Morgan was back in Preston’s starting line-up. Paul Parry made another appearance from the bench.
Coventry City 2-3 Leeds United
Coventry remain in the play-off places, despite losing to Leeds, who are now only a point behind them.
Freddy Eastwood didn’t return to Coventry’s squad as expected.
Jason Brown was back in goal for Leeds after first-choice keeper Kasper Schmeichel became a father on Friday night.
Sanchez Watt didn’t return from his ankle injury.
Derby County 2-0 Portsmouth
Derby are up in fourth place after a fifth successive home win – which also happens to be their fifth home win of the season.
Robbie Savage scored a penalty in the 23rd minute and Derby never looked back. Well, they probably did look back. It wouldn’t have been 2-0 if they hadn’t looked back. Gareth Roberts was on the bench. It sounds like the Derby players did well – but, as Robbie reminds us, the manager plays a part too.
Doncaster Rovers 2-1 Millwall
Millwall often do seem to take the lead in matches. They take the lead and get your hopes in but then they let in two and don’t score anymore and suddenly it’s not the result you wanted at all.
Brian Stock and John Oster both played the full match for Doncaster.
Steve Morison scored Millwall’s goal ans got his fifth yellow card.
Leicester won only their second away game of the season to beat Barnsley.and get a second consecutive win.
Andy King scored twice for Leicester but the first one was offside. The stand-in captain got the winner four minutes from the end of the match.
Bristol City 1-1 Preston North End
Bristol City’s problem at home continue – they have only six points from their eight home games.
Brett Pitman was a late substitute for Bristol City and had a late chance to grab a winner.
Craig Morgan was back in Preston’s starting line-up. Paul Parry made another appearance from the bench.
Coventry City 2-3 Leeds United
Coventry remain in the play-off places, despite losing to Leeds, who are now only a point behind them.
Freddy Eastwood didn’t return to Coventry’s squad as expected.
Jason Brown was back in goal for Leeds after first-choice keeper Kasper Schmeichel became a father on Friday night.
Sanchez Watt didn’t return from his ankle injury.
Derby County 2-0 Portsmouth
Derby are up in fourth place after a fifth successive home win – which also happens to be their fifth home win of the season.
Robbie Savage scored a penalty in the 23rd minute and Derby never looked back. Well, they probably did look back. It wouldn’t have been 2-0 if they hadn’t looked back. Gareth Roberts was on the bench. It sounds like the Derby players did well – but, as Robbie reminds us, the manager plays a part too.
Doncaster Rovers 2-1 Millwall
Millwall often do seem to take the lead in matches. They take the lead and get your hopes in but then they let in two and don’t score anymore and suddenly it’s not the result you wanted at all.
Brian Stock and John Oster both played the full match for Doncaster.
Steve Morison scored Millwall’s goal ans got his fifth yellow card.
Saturday, 6 November 2010
Championship Fixtures 6th November 2010 (Part 1)
Barnsley v Leicester City
Andy King should keep his place in Leicester’s starting line-up.
Bristol City v Preston North End
Brett Pitman will be in Bristol City’s squad but all their other Welsh players are either injured or on loan. Christian Ribeiro is on his way back from hip and groi injuries and will have a fitness test before the match. Some reports say Sam Vokes is also on his way back too.
Craig Morgan and Paul Parry are probably most likely to be on the bench for Preston.
Coventry City v Leeds United
Freddy Eastwood is back in Coventry’s squad after recovering from a knee injury. He played 90 minutes in a training match a few days ago.
Jason Brown will be on the bench for Leeds but Sanchez Watt isn’t ready to return from an ankle injury.
Derby County v Portsmouth
Robbie Savage, who this week quit Twitter shortly before taking it up again, will hope to keep his place for Derby. Hopefully he’ll get lots of abuse – he likes it! Though I wouldn’t have a problem if he drove around in his underpants. I sincerely hope he always wears underpants.
After two consecutive late appearances from the bench, Gareth Roberts might be fancying his chances of being back in the starting line-up fairly soon.
Andy King should keep his place in Leicester’s starting line-up.
Bristol City v Preston North End
Brett Pitman will be in Bristol City’s squad but all their other Welsh players are either injured or on loan. Christian Ribeiro is on his way back from hip and groi injuries and will have a fitness test before the match. Some reports say Sam Vokes is also on his way back too.
Craig Morgan and Paul Parry are probably most likely to be on the bench for Preston.
Coventry City v Leeds United
Freddy Eastwood is back in Coventry’s squad after recovering from a knee injury. He played 90 minutes in a training match a few days ago.
Jason Brown will be on the bench for Leeds but Sanchez Watt isn’t ready to return from an ankle injury.
Derby County v Portsmouth
Robbie Savage, who this week quit Twitter shortly before taking it up again, will hope to keep his place for Derby. Hopefully he’ll get lots of abuse – he likes it! Though I wouldn’t have a problem if he drove around in his underpants. I sincerely hope he always wears underpants.
After two consecutive late appearances from the bench, Gareth Roberts might be fancying his chances of being back in the starting line-up fairly soon.
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