Hull City
Gary Speed was named as a contender to become Hull City’s new manager. He didn’t get the job.
Hull were said to be interested in signing Steve Morison from Millwall but Millwall weren’t interested.
Welsh players: None
Ipswich Town
Troy Brown signed a one-year contract extension with Ipswich.
Ben Thatcher is still a free agent after being released by Ipswich mid-season.
Welsh players: One (Troy Brown)
Leeds United
Arsenal's Sanchez Watt joined on loan again, this time for the whole season.
Welsh players: One (Sanchez Watt)
Leicester City
Brentford made a bid for Nicky Adams but he decided to stay and fight for his place instead. He fought for about two weeks before deciding to go to Brentford after all. The fee agreed was £175,000 but then there was a re-structure.
It was thought that Andy King would also attract interest from other clubs and I’m sure he did but Leicester kept hold of him.
Leicester were rumoured to be interested in Steve Morison and the rumour could well be true – why wouldn’t they be interested? But Steve didn’t want to go and there was no way Millwall were letting him.
Leicester made a late bid on transfer deadline day for Ashley Williams but Swansea rejected it.
Welsh players: One (Andy King)
Middlesbrough
It was thought that Middlesbrough might want to replace goalkeeper Danny Coyne but luckily for him they didn't.
Welsh players: Two and a half (Danny Coyne, Rhys Williams who decided to represent Australia)
Millwall
Millwall released striker Jason Price following their promotion to the Championship. Jason was strongly linked with Carlisle United (among, according to Jason, other clubs), with whom he spent time on loan last season and the rumours turned out to be true. Jason has now signed a one-year deal with Carlisle United.
Hull were said to be interested in signing Steve Morison but Millwall said no.
Welsh players: One (Steve Morison)
Norwich City
Norwich said there was room for everyone in the squad but that didn’t stop them from getting rid of three Welshmen. Rhoys Wiggins finally got his dream move to Bournemouth after the transfer ban was lifted. He spent the second half of last season on loan there and has now signed a two-year deal.
Norwich were all set to let David Stephens go to Lincoln City but the player had other ideas. He has now signed for Hibernian on a two-year deal. They’re in the Europa League you know.
Josh Dawkin signed a one-year professional contract with Norwich.
Owain Tudur Jones had an unsuccessful trial with Plymouth Argyle before returning to Yeovil Town on loan, where he will stay for one month – or until January if he can extend it. He was also linked to Swindon Town.
Norwich signed Andrew Crofts from Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee, probably around £300,000.
Welsh players: Two (Andrew Crofts, Josh Dawkin) plus one out on loan (Owain Tudur Jones)
Nottingham Forest
Forest were said to be interested in signing Andy Dorman but he went to Crystal Palace instead.
Welsh players: Two (Chris Gunter, Robert Earnshaw)
Showing posts with label ben thatcher. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ben thatcher. Show all posts
Friday, 3 September 2010
Friday, 5 March 2010
Championship Fixtures 6th March Part 1
Blackpool v Ipswich Town
Blackpool hope to keep their play-off hopes alive while Ipswich are probably beginning to realise that maybe all those draws – seventeen so far - won’t be much help after all.
Rob Edwards has completed his latest suspension and is in contention to play for Blackpool. Neal Eardley was on the bench both for Blackpool and Wales last week after recovering from what most sources believe to be a toe injury. Blackpool have problems in defence so Neal could come in at left back or centre back.
Ian Holloway might not have been too impressed with his clubbing excursions but Neal has a good side. Last week, the Blackpool Gazette reports, there were nine Barnsley mascots and one Blackpool mascot on the pitch before the game. The Blackpool mascot was getting ignored. So two of the Blackpool players asked him to play with him instead. One of them was Neal, the other was Ishmel Demontagnac.
David Vaughan started for club and country and should keep his place in Blackpool’s team. Daniel Nardiello also has a good chance of playing after recovering from a groin injury but as he’s now on loan at Oldham, he won’t be much help to Blackpool.
Troy Brown could be part of Ipswich’s squad as they need cover for injuries.
But Ben Thatcher won’t be – his contract has been cancelled by mutual consent and he’s left the club. He thinks he can play for another few seasons but he won’t be able to play for another club until next season. I definitely wouldn’t say Ben is one of my favourite Welsh players. Far from it. But I think it’s… interesting that Ipswich Roy Keane seems so set against players who don’t show him respect. Not that I’m saying he’s a hypocrite necessarily and I agree with him, I really do…
Bristol City v Doncaster Rovers
Both these teams are halfway between the play-offs and the relegation zone. I wouldn’t expect them to go down but they’ll be wanting to win. Just in case.
Lewin Nyatanga returns from international duty apparently unscathed and Gavin Williams is also likely to be in Bristol City’s squad. Lewin isn’t likely to be able to sign for Arsenal anytime soon – he is a fan of the long ball tactic and even thinks it could benefit England. He’s got a point too.
Bristol City are short of defenders but manager Gary Johnson feels Christian Ribeiro and James Wilson aren’t experienced enough to play. In any case, the Bristol City official site suggests that Christian will be heading back to Colchester on loan for another two months.
Brian Stock again misses out for Doncaster with a back injury. He has been given an injection in the hope that he won’t have to have an operation until the end of the season. The signs are good but he probably won’t be able to play for another four weeks. Gareth Roberts and John Oster are likely to start for Doncaster.
Blackpool hope to keep their play-off hopes alive while Ipswich are probably beginning to realise that maybe all those draws – seventeen so far - won’t be much help after all.
Rob Edwards has completed his latest suspension and is in contention to play for Blackpool. Neal Eardley was on the bench both for Blackpool and Wales last week after recovering from what most sources believe to be a toe injury. Blackpool have problems in defence so Neal could come in at left back or centre back.
Ian Holloway might not have been too impressed with his clubbing excursions but Neal has a good side. Last week, the Blackpool Gazette reports, there were nine Barnsley mascots and one Blackpool mascot on the pitch before the game. The Blackpool mascot was getting ignored. So two of the Blackpool players asked him to play with him instead. One of them was Neal, the other was Ishmel Demontagnac.
David Vaughan started for club and country and should keep his place in Blackpool’s team. Daniel Nardiello also has a good chance of playing after recovering from a groin injury but as he’s now on loan at Oldham, he won’t be much help to Blackpool.
Troy Brown could be part of Ipswich’s squad as they need cover for injuries.
But Ben Thatcher won’t be – his contract has been cancelled by mutual consent and he’s left the club. He thinks he can play for another few seasons but he won’t be able to play for another club until next season. I definitely wouldn’t say Ben is one of my favourite Welsh players. Far from it. But I think it’s… interesting that Ipswich Roy Keane seems so set against players who don’t show him respect. Not that I’m saying he’s a hypocrite necessarily and I agree with him, I really do…
Bristol City v Doncaster Rovers
Both these teams are halfway between the play-offs and the relegation zone. I wouldn’t expect them to go down but they’ll be wanting to win. Just in case.
Lewin Nyatanga returns from international duty apparently unscathed and Gavin Williams is also likely to be in Bristol City’s squad. Lewin isn’t likely to be able to sign for Arsenal anytime soon – he is a fan of the long ball tactic and even thinks it could benefit England. He’s got a point too.
Bristol City are short of defenders but manager Gary Johnson feels Christian Ribeiro and James Wilson aren’t experienced enough to play. In any case, the Bristol City official site suggests that Christian will be heading back to Colchester on loan for another two months.
Brian Stock again misses out for Doncaster with a back injury. He has been given an injection in the hope that he won’t have to have an operation until the end of the season. The signs are good but he probably won’t be able to play for another four weeks. Gareth Roberts and John Oster are likely to start for Doncaster.
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
Welsh Transfers: More Speculation (Championship Players)
Adam Matthews (Cardiff City to Arsenal or Manchester United)
John Oster (Doncaster Rovers to whoever wanted a player who’d just been arrested for being drink and disorderly)
Lewis Price (Brentford back to parent club Derby in premature termination of season-long loan)
Brian Stock (Doncaster Rovers to Southampton or a ‘bigger club#)
Troy Brown (Ipswich Town to somewhere on loan)
Craig Morgan (Peterborough United to Notts County)
Ben Thatcher (Ipswich Town to somewhere a long way away from Roy Keane)
Ashley Williams (Swansea City to Wigan Athletic)
Ashley Richards (Swansea City to Rangers)
John Oster (Doncaster Rovers to whoever wanted a player who’d just been arrested for being drink and disorderly)
Lewis Price (Brentford back to parent club Derby in premature termination of season-long loan)
Brian Stock (Doncaster Rovers to Southampton or a ‘bigger club#)
Troy Brown (Ipswich Town to somewhere on loan)
Craig Morgan (Peterborough United to Notts County)
Ben Thatcher (Ipswich Town to somewhere a long way away from Roy Keane)
Ashley Williams (Swansea City to Wigan Athletic)
Ashley Richards (Swansea City to Rangers)
Friday, 29 January 2010
Championship Fixtures 30th January Part 2
Derby County v Nottingham Forest
Robbie Savage’s Derby are the latest team to try to end the unbeaten League run of Nottingham Forest. And the fact it’s a local derby might prove to be the incentive they need. Robbie thinks Arsenal and Manchester United will have to finish above Chelsea to win the League. Well… yes, Robbie.
Chris Gunter will almost certainly keep his place in defence and I’ll be shocked if Robert Earnshaw doesn’t start after scoring two goals and then refraining from taking a penalty against Queen’s Park Rangers.
Leicester City v Newcastle United
Leicester are hoping to get back on course for the play-offs but Newcastle probably aren’t the ideal team to face when you want a win. Andy King has been on the bench for recent games but maybe he’ll be back in the team this week.
Middlesbrough v Bristol City
Both Middlesbrough’s players and fans seem happier now Danny Coyne is between the sticks but Bristol City will be out to bounce back from their 6-0 defeat to Cardiff and Middlesbrough are nothing if not inconsistent. Boro’s Rhys Williams is doubtful with a pelvic injury.
Bristol City’s Lewin Nyatanga was on the bench against Cardiff but you wouldn’t blame the City management team for thinking he might have been just slightly missed against Cardiff. Gavin Williams was surprisingly omitted from the squad in the last game so he could be injured.
Preston North End v Ipswich Town
Paul Parry will be out for another two months with a knee injury while Ipswich’s Ben Thatcher and Troy Brown have been playing for the reserves.
Robbie Savage’s Derby are the latest team to try to end the unbeaten League run of Nottingham Forest. And the fact it’s a local derby might prove to be the incentive they need. Robbie thinks Arsenal and Manchester United will have to finish above Chelsea to win the League. Well… yes, Robbie.
Chris Gunter will almost certainly keep his place in defence and I’ll be shocked if Robert Earnshaw doesn’t start after scoring two goals and then refraining from taking a penalty against Queen’s Park Rangers.
Leicester City v Newcastle United
Leicester are hoping to get back on course for the play-offs but Newcastle probably aren’t the ideal team to face when you want a win. Andy King has been on the bench for recent games but maybe he’ll be back in the team this week.
Middlesbrough v Bristol City
Both Middlesbrough’s players and fans seem happier now Danny Coyne is between the sticks but Bristol City will be out to bounce back from their 6-0 defeat to Cardiff and Middlesbrough are nothing if not inconsistent. Boro’s Rhys Williams is doubtful with a pelvic injury.
Bristol City’s Lewin Nyatanga was on the bench against Cardiff but you wouldn’t blame the City management team for thinking he might have been just slightly missed against Cardiff. Gavin Williams was surprisingly omitted from the squad in the last game so he could be injured.
Preston North End v Ipswich Town
Paul Parry will be out for another two months with a knee injury while Ipswich’s Ben Thatcher and Troy Brown have been playing for the reserves.
Monday, 25 January 2010
Championship Fixtures 26th January Part 2
Doncaster Rovers v Middlesbrough
Brian Stock seemed fine after completing his first 90 minutes for Doncaster since returning from injury but tomorrow’s game could come a bit soon. Gareth Roberts and John Oster should play after making good contributions, despite being on the leading side.
I hope Danny Coyne will keep his place in goal as he has mostly done better than Brad Jones but Rhys Williams probably won’t be recovered from his pelvic injury.
Ipswich Town v West Bromwich Albion
Ben Thatcher is rumoured to be not far off returning from injury but another rumour states Roy Keane won’t let him near the first team no matter what. So it’s hard to know what’s going to happen.
Peterborough United v Preston North End
Darren Ferguson’s old side takes on his new side – although at least he was actually sacked rather than just leaving them which should help. Peterborough’s Craig Morgan will serve the second match of his three-match suspension and Preston are still without the injured Paul Parry.
Nottingham Forest v Queen’s Park Rangers
Robert Earnshaw used his Twitter account to congratulate Villa’s James Collins on reaching the FA Cup final – actually it’s the Carling Cup Final, Rob. But a sweet tweet nevertheless. Who knows, maybe Darren Bent’s Sunderland rant was about something else entirely, like where Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy was going to take him on their next dirty weekend away.
I don’t know how knowledgeable Chris Gunter is about what other teams are up to but he’s certainly clued up when it comes to his own club. He says automatic promotion is a definite possibility for Forest and I can only agree.
Plymouth Argyle v Derby County
Robbie Savage has a novel way of helping his team-mates to improve their strike rates – taking shots at him first! It worked too. But it can work two ways. Maybe Plymouth captain Carl Fletcher can get his team scoring own goals off Robbie’s face.
Brian Stock seemed fine after completing his first 90 minutes for Doncaster since returning from injury but tomorrow’s game could come a bit soon. Gareth Roberts and John Oster should play after making good contributions, despite being on the leading side.
I hope Danny Coyne will keep his place in goal as he has mostly done better than Brad Jones but Rhys Williams probably won’t be recovered from his pelvic injury.
Ipswich Town v West Bromwich Albion
Ben Thatcher is rumoured to be not far off returning from injury but another rumour states Roy Keane won’t let him near the first team no matter what. So it’s hard to know what’s going to happen.
Peterborough United v Preston North End
Darren Ferguson’s old side takes on his new side – although at least he was actually sacked rather than just leaving them which should help. Peterborough’s Craig Morgan will serve the second match of his three-match suspension and Preston are still without the injured Paul Parry.
Nottingham Forest v Queen’s Park Rangers
Robert Earnshaw used his Twitter account to congratulate Villa’s James Collins on reaching the FA Cup final – actually it’s the Carling Cup Final, Rob. But a sweet tweet nevertheless. Who knows, maybe Darren Bent’s Sunderland rant was about something else entirely, like where Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy was going to take him on their next dirty weekend away.
I don’t know how knowledgeable Chris Gunter is about what other teams are up to but he’s certainly clued up when it comes to his own club. He says automatic promotion is a definite possibility for Forest and I can only agree.
Plymouth Argyle v Derby County
Robbie Savage has a novel way of helping his team-mates to improve their strike rates – taking shots at him first! It worked too. But it can work two ways. Maybe Plymouth captain Carl Fletcher can get his team scoring own goals off Robbie’s face.
Saturday, 23 January 2010
Welsh Non-Keague/Reserves news
Aaron Morris, on loan from Cardiff City, was in Newport County’s team as they drew 0-0 with Blue Square Premier side York City in the FA Trophy. Kevin Gall and Danny Parslow were in York’s team. The replay is on Tuesday.
Troy Brown played for Ipswich Town’s reserve side as they drew 1-1 with Southend United reserves.
Ben Thatcher played 45 minutes for Ipswich and Roy Keane says he is progressing well as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.
Swansea City’s reserves lost 2-1 to Llanelli. Their side included David Cornell (goalkeeper), Daniel Alfei, Kristian O’Leary, Daniel Sheehan, Matty Collins (captain), Scott Evans and Chad Bond. Rhys Wilson (goalkeeper), Casey Thomas, Lee Lucas and Joe Walsh were among those on the substitutes’ bench.
Troy Brown played for Ipswich Town’s reserve side as they drew 1-1 with Southend United reserves.
Ben Thatcher played 45 minutes for Ipswich and Roy Keane says he is progressing well as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.
Swansea City’s reserves lost 2-1 to Llanelli. Their side included David Cornell (goalkeeper), Daniel Alfei, Kristian O’Leary, Daniel Sheehan, Matty Collins (captain), Scott Evans and Chad Bond. Rhys Wilson (goalkeeper), Casey Thomas, Lee Lucas and Joe Walsh were among those on the substitutes’ bench.
Monday, 11 January 2010
Welsh Transfer Rumours 11th January
Arron Davies, who was released by Nottingham Forest in December, is rumoured to have attracted the interest of Leeds United. It’s a surprise but a very nice one.
The father of Kyle Letheren is angry with Plymouth Argyle for releasing their son, after a verbal agreement that his contract would be extended. Kyle turned down approaches from other clubs as he believed he was going to be at Plymouth for the time being. However, he shouldn’t be without a club for long. Wolves, Falkirk and Hibernian have all showed interest. Wolves already have a brilliant Welsh goalkeeper but maybe they can find space for one more. Just think, if Wolves stay in the Premier League, Kyle will be two whole divisions above the team that released him.
Nottingham Forest manager Billy Davies seems certain that Gareth Bale will be joining them this transfer window. Unlikely, considering that this would leave Tottenham without a left back. Not that I mind too much if Tottenham don’t have any left backs.
It doesn’t seem likely that Joe Ledley will still be at Cardiff when the transfer window closes. And if he is, it’ll be because of his injury and impending operation rather than because no-one wants him. Just two of those clubs rumoured to be interested are Blackburn Rovers and Celtic.
Cardiff are just hoping he won’t go abroad as then they won’t get any compensation if he leaves on a free transfer. Celtic apparently counts as abroad but presumably ‘abroad’ refers to clubs outside the English league rather than clubs outside Wales.
Arsenal and Manchester United are again being linked heavily with Adam Matthews. Adam is a very good player who would certainly have chances at Arsenal and probably Manchester United too – they have some more experienced right backs but they’re usually injured.
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy offered Leeds United £300000 plus Sam Vokes but Simon Grayson turned him down. However, as the move would have involved Jermaine Beckford going the other way, maybe you can’t blame Grayson for wanting a just little bit more.
Fans of Blackburn Rovers and Middlesbrough have expressed their admiration for Jason Koumas. Time will tell if the managers agree but I hope they do. It’s sad seeing Jason playing so little for Wigan. He’s too good for their bench.
Cardiff City’s Aaron Morris has signed on loan for Newport County. This actually happened around 23rd December but I only just found out about it.
Ben Thatcher probably won’t be at Ipswich for long if Roy Keane can help it. The midfielder reportedly only coming into training “when he fancies it, and when the traffic’s not too bad.” But be warned: this quote has only been used by the Daily Mail and the Sun. So it could be bollocks.
Yeovil have fought off competition from other clubs to re-sign Shaun MacDonald on loan from Swansea City.
If Bradford City want to keep Michael Flynn they need to act fast – he’s about to leave on a free transfer.
Bristol Rovers’ David Pipe has had his loan to Cheltenham extended until the end of the season.
Crewe Alexandra’s young striker Alex Tichiner has gone to Colwyn Bay on loan.
The father of Kyle Letheren is angry with Plymouth Argyle for releasing their son, after a verbal agreement that his contract would be extended. Kyle turned down approaches from other clubs as he believed he was going to be at Plymouth for the time being. However, he shouldn’t be without a club for long. Wolves, Falkirk and Hibernian have all showed interest. Wolves already have a brilliant Welsh goalkeeper but maybe they can find space for one more. Just think, if Wolves stay in the Premier League, Kyle will be two whole divisions above the team that released him.
Nottingham Forest manager Billy Davies seems certain that Gareth Bale will be joining them this transfer window. Unlikely, considering that this would leave Tottenham without a left back. Not that I mind too much if Tottenham don’t have any left backs.
It doesn’t seem likely that Joe Ledley will still be at Cardiff when the transfer window closes. And if he is, it’ll be because of his injury and impending operation rather than because no-one wants him. Just two of those clubs rumoured to be interested are Blackburn Rovers and Celtic.
Cardiff are just hoping he won’t go abroad as then they won’t get any compensation if he leaves on a free transfer. Celtic apparently counts as abroad but presumably ‘abroad’ refers to clubs outside the English league rather than clubs outside Wales.
Arsenal and Manchester United are again being linked heavily with Adam Matthews. Adam is a very good player who would certainly have chances at Arsenal and probably Manchester United too – they have some more experienced right backs but they’re usually injured.
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy offered Leeds United £300000 plus Sam Vokes but Simon Grayson turned him down. However, as the move would have involved Jermaine Beckford going the other way, maybe you can’t blame Grayson for wanting a just little bit more.
Fans of Blackburn Rovers and Middlesbrough have expressed their admiration for Jason Koumas. Time will tell if the managers agree but I hope they do. It’s sad seeing Jason playing so little for Wigan. He’s too good for their bench.
Cardiff City’s Aaron Morris has signed on loan for Newport County. This actually happened around 23rd December but I only just found out about it.
Ben Thatcher probably won’t be at Ipswich for long if Roy Keane can help it. The midfielder reportedly only coming into training “when he fancies it, and when the traffic’s not too bad.” But be warned: this quote has only been used by the Daily Mail and the Sun. So it could be bollocks.
Yeovil have fought off competition from other clubs to re-sign Shaun MacDonald on loan from Swansea City.
If Bradford City want to keep Michael Flynn they need to act fast – he’s about to leave on a free transfer.
Bristol Rovers’ David Pipe has had his loan to Cheltenham extended until the end of the season.
Crewe Alexandra’s young striker Alex Tichiner has gone to Colwyn Bay on loan.
Friday, 1 January 2010
Welsh Transfer Window Rumours 1st January Part 2
Kyle Letherhen to ?
Kyle Letheren has been released by Plymouth Argyle after his contract came to an end. He was only signed short-term to sit on the bench and cover while their usual second-string goalkeeper was injured. No word yet on whether he’s likely to join another club in the near future but it’s hard to believe that a keeper who’s good enough to sit on a Championship bench should have too much trouble finding a new club.
Adam Matthews to Manchester United or Arsenal
Manchester United have apparently beaten Arsenal to the signing of Adam Matthews but as this was announced at least a week before the transfer window opened, I can’t take this too seriously. Besides, Adam might choose to go to Arsenal like Aaron Ramsey did. If Adam goes to Arsenal, he’ll be guaranteed Carling Cup and possibly FA Cup appearances (next season), he will also have chances to play in Premier League and Champions’ League games against weaker opposition. This might also happen if he plays for Manchester United but it’s not guaranteed. Also, Man U already have a young right back in Rafael and he is behind about three (admittedly injury prone) right backs in the pecking order. At Arsenal, Adam will be behind Bacary Sagna and Emmanuel Eboué, who might be playing right wing anyway.
Most of all though, I think I’d like to see him stay as Cardiff City. He’s quality and Cardiff really need some of that at the moment. And Cardiff are giving him regular, if not weekly, first team games.
Shaun MacDonald to Yeovil (loan)
Yeovil wanted to extend Shaun MacDonald’s loan but Swansea wanted him back. But as he hasn’t even been on the bench for Swansea yet it’s not impossible Yeovil will get their way and get him back.
Craig Morgan to Notts County
Notts County are aiming high – or at least as high as the bottom of the Championship. Craig Morgan doesn’t seem to be a manager’s favourite at Peterborough United, apparently preferring to play him only when needed. Not many players would willingly give up Championship football in favour of League Two, even if the chances are he’ll be playing League One football whichever club he’s at. Notts County are a bigger club than Peterborough with a bigger history but they do seem to be in quite a big mess.
Lewis Price to ?
I’m not quite sure what’s happening with Lewis Price. First he was Brentford’s first-choice keeper. Then he was dropped from the squad completely and Derby were making noises about wanting him back. Now Lewis is back between the sticks and Derby have gone quiet but with Wojciech Szczęsny apparently preferred when fit, who knows what’s going to happen?
Anthony Pulis to Lincoln City (loan)
Anthony Pulis has been on-loan at Lincoln for a while but he has not featured for a while due to injury. It was thought his loan would come to an end before he recovered but that Lincoln would get him back for another loan when he was better.
Ryan Shawcross to Manchester United
Two years ago, Manchester United sold Ryan Shawcross to Stoke on the grounds that he wasn’t good enough for them. A season and a half for Stoke in the Premier League and Man Utd are beginning to think that maybe they made a bit of a mistake. But Stoke don’t want to sell him and Ryan seems more interested in regular football with Stoke than Manchester United’s wage bill.
Brian Stock to Cardiff City
Brian Stock has hardly played for Doncaster Rovers this season due to injury but Cardiff are still interested in this strong and influential midfield player. And especially with Joe Ledley going off to have an operation, Cardiff really need one of those. Doncaster are doing amazingly well but you can’t really imagine them in the Premier League – which is (if they stop giving up 4-goal leads) more of a possibility for Cardiff.
Ben Thatcher to ?
Roy Keane insists the only reason Ben Thatcher isn’t playing for Ipswich Town is because he has a knee injury. Well fair enough. But there are rumblings that two of football’s biggest hotheads don’t get on terribly well and that Ben refused to adhere to Roy’s rule that all players must live within a certain distance from the training ground. You can’t blame a manager for putting a player on the transfer list if this is true. But how many clubs would be interested in an injured hothead?
Ashley Williams to Wigan Athletic
Just as former Wigan boss Steve Bruce has buying all his old Wigan recruits for Sunderland, Roberto Martinez has been raiding his own club Swansea. And next on his list seems to be centre back Ashley Williams, who has lately been captain of both Swansea and Wales. No word on whether Ashley is happy to go – it depends on whether he prefers a relegation battle he has a good chance of surviving or a promotion battle that might come to nothing.
Kyle Letheren has been released by Plymouth Argyle after his contract came to an end. He was only signed short-term to sit on the bench and cover while their usual second-string goalkeeper was injured. No word yet on whether he’s likely to join another club in the near future but it’s hard to believe that a keeper who’s good enough to sit on a Championship bench should have too much trouble finding a new club.
Adam Matthews to Manchester United or Arsenal
Manchester United have apparently beaten Arsenal to the signing of Adam Matthews but as this was announced at least a week before the transfer window opened, I can’t take this too seriously. Besides, Adam might choose to go to Arsenal like Aaron Ramsey did. If Adam goes to Arsenal, he’ll be guaranteed Carling Cup and possibly FA Cup appearances (next season), he will also have chances to play in Premier League and Champions’ League games against weaker opposition. This might also happen if he plays for Manchester United but it’s not guaranteed. Also, Man U already have a young right back in Rafael and he is behind about three (admittedly injury prone) right backs in the pecking order. At Arsenal, Adam will be behind Bacary Sagna and Emmanuel Eboué, who might be playing right wing anyway.
Most of all though, I think I’d like to see him stay as Cardiff City. He’s quality and Cardiff really need some of that at the moment. And Cardiff are giving him regular, if not weekly, first team games.
Shaun MacDonald to Yeovil (loan)
Yeovil wanted to extend Shaun MacDonald’s loan but Swansea wanted him back. But as he hasn’t even been on the bench for Swansea yet it’s not impossible Yeovil will get their way and get him back.
Craig Morgan to Notts County
Notts County are aiming high – or at least as high as the bottom of the Championship. Craig Morgan doesn’t seem to be a manager’s favourite at Peterborough United, apparently preferring to play him only when needed. Not many players would willingly give up Championship football in favour of League Two, even if the chances are he’ll be playing League One football whichever club he’s at. Notts County are a bigger club than Peterborough with a bigger history but they do seem to be in quite a big mess.
Lewis Price to ?
I’m not quite sure what’s happening with Lewis Price. First he was Brentford’s first-choice keeper. Then he was dropped from the squad completely and Derby were making noises about wanting him back. Now Lewis is back between the sticks and Derby have gone quiet but with Wojciech Szczęsny apparently preferred when fit, who knows what’s going to happen?
Anthony Pulis to Lincoln City (loan)
Anthony Pulis has been on-loan at Lincoln for a while but he has not featured for a while due to injury. It was thought his loan would come to an end before he recovered but that Lincoln would get him back for another loan when he was better.
Ryan Shawcross to Manchester United
Two years ago, Manchester United sold Ryan Shawcross to Stoke on the grounds that he wasn’t good enough for them. A season and a half for Stoke in the Premier League and Man Utd are beginning to think that maybe they made a bit of a mistake. But Stoke don’t want to sell him and Ryan seems more interested in regular football with Stoke than Manchester United’s wage bill.
Brian Stock to Cardiff City
Brian Stock has hardly played for Doncaster Rovers this season due to injury but Cardiff are still interested in this strong and influential midfield player. And especially with Joe Ledley going off to have an operation, Cardiff really need one of those. Doncaster are doing amazingly well but you can’t really imagine them in the Premier League – which is (if they stop giving up 4-goal leads) more of a possibility for Cardiff.
Ben Thatcher to ?
Roy Keane insists the only reason Ben Thatcher isn’t playing for Ipswich Town is because he has a knee injury. Well fair enough. But there are rumblings that two of football’s biggest hotheads don’t get on terribly well and that Ben refused to adhere to Roy’s rule that all players must live within a certain distance from the training ground. You can’t blame a manager for putting a player on the transfer list if this is true. But how many clubs would be interested in an injured hothead?
Ashley Williams to Wigan Athletic
Just as former Wigan boss Steve Bruce has buying all his old Wigan recruits for Sunderland, Roberto Martinez has been raiding his own club Swansea. And next on his list seems to be centre back Ashley Williams, who has lately been captain of both Swansea and Wales. No word on whether Ashley is happy to go – it depends on whether he prefers a relegation battle he has a good chance of surviving or a promotion battle that might come to nothing.
Friday, 18 December 2009
Championship Fixtures 19th December Part 3
Plymouth Argyle v Coventry City
Carl Fletcher should play for Plymouth but Darcy Blake has hurt his heel and is a doubt. Poor Kyle Letheren was in goal when Plymouth Reserves were beaten 2-1 by Salisbury City Reserves but I hope he’ll still be on the bench.
Coventry manager Chris Coleman has challenged Freddy Eastwood to build on last week’s hat-trick – and Plymouth aren’t a bad team to practise against.
Queen’s Park Rangers v Sheffield United
No news on QPR’s Rhys Taylor so I can only assume it’ll be the bench for him again. Sheffield United’s Ched Evans will be hoping to get a start and improve his goal ratio.
Scunthorpe United v Ipswich Town
Roy Keane says Ipswich were able to train on Friday morning despite the snow and that only one player was late. He doesn’t say who but TWTD.co.uk thinks it was Ben Thatcher. But as, according to the same site, Ben lives further away from the ground than the rest of his team-mates, it would be understandable if he was late.
Sheffield Wednesday v Swansea City
David Cotterill is hoping to improve Swansea’s strike rate – and giving him a start alongside Ashley Williams can only help. Joe Allen has a chance of starting, David Cornell will be on the bench as long as he hasn’t got some injury I don’t know about, and Ashley Richards could be a substitute too.
Carl Fletcher should play for Plymouth but Darcy Blake has hurt his heel and is a doubt. Poor Kyle Letheren was in goal when Plymouth Reserves were beaten 2-1 by Salisbury City Reserves but I hope he’ll still be on the bench.
Coventry manager Chris Coleman has challenged Freddy Eastwood to build on last week’s hat-trick – and Plymouth aren’t a bad team to practise against.
Queen’s Park Rangers v Sheffield United
No news on QPR’s Rhys Taylor so I can only assume it’ll be the bench for him again. Sheffield United’s Ched Evans will be hoping to get a start and improve his goal ratio.
Scunthorpe United v Ipswich Town
Roy Keane says Ipswich were able to train on Friday morning despite the snow and that only one player was late. He doesn’t say who but TWTD.co.uk thinks it was Ben Thatcher. But as, according to the same site, Ben lives further away from the ground than the rest of his team-mates, it would be understandable if he was late.
Sheffield Wednesday v Swansea City
David Cotterill is hoping to improve Swansea’s strike rate – and giving him a start alongside Ashley Williams can only help. Joe Allen has a chance of starting, David Cornell will be on the bench as long as he hasn’t got some injury I don’t know about, and Ashley Richards could be a substitute too.
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
Championship News 6th December Part 1
Doncaster Rovers v Sheffield Wednesday
Brian Stock is hoping to return to training next week. With John Oster and Gareth Roberts in the team, Doncaster have mostly done well but I’m sure they too will be glad to see Brian back. He’s a month ahead of schedule too.
Ipswich Town v Peterborough United
Craig Morgan might be heading to Notts County in January – a move which will technically see him drop two leagues – but that didn’t stop them from putting him in their team last week.
Roy Keane says the only reason Ben Thatcher hasn’t played for Ipswich this season is because he’s injured. Some might have their doubts about that but I’m not going to go around arguing with Roy Keane.
Leicester City v Bristol City
Nicky Adams is hoping to start for Leicester and after last week’s result, generally described as a ‘horror show’, it’s not impossible that manager Nigel Pearson will make changes. Whether Nicky will replace Andy King or one of the other players is not up to me (although considering the way I go on sometimes you’d be forgiven for thinking it was).
Leicester need to watch out. Lewin Nyatanga isn’t 100% convinced he’ll get another start but one thing he is sure of is that Bristol City will give Leicester a tough game. Gavin Williams will keep Lewin company on the bench if he doesn’t get picked.
Middlesbrough v Blackpool
Rhys Williams has a groin problem but is expected to play for Middlesbrough. He did well at right back last week as Boro got their first win since Gareth Southgate was sacked. Danny Coyne will be on the bench.
Neal Eardley and Rob Edwards’ recalls to Blackpool’s starting line-up didn’t go as planned on Saturday but that wasn’t their fault. David Vaughan scored an own goal but it’s not his fault Barnsley need the opposition to score their goals for them.
Brian Stock is hoping to return to training next week. With John Oster and Gareth Roberts in the team, Doncaster have mostly done well but I’m sure they too will be glad to see Brian back. He’s a month ahead of schedule too.
Ipswich Town v Peterborough United
Craig Morgan might be heading to Notts County in January – a move which will technically see him drop two leagues – but that didn’t stop them from putting him in their team last week.
Roy Keane says the only reason Ben Thatcher hasn’t played for Ipswich this season is because he’s injured. Some might have their doubts about that but I’m not going to go around arguing with Roy Keane.
Leicester City v Bristol City
Nicky Adams is hoping to start for Leicester and after last week’s result, generally described as a ‘horror show’, it’s not impossible that manager Nigel Pearson will make changes. Whether Nicky will replace Andy King or one of the other players is not up to me (although considering the way I go on sometimes you’d be forgiven for thinking it was).
Leicester need to watch out. Lewin Nyatanga isn’t 100% convinced he’ll get another start but one thing he is sure of is that Bristol City will give Leicester a tough game. Gavin Williams will keep Lewin company on the bench if he doesn’t get picked.
Middlesbrough v Blackpool
Rhys Williams has a groin problem but is expected to play for Middlesbrough. He did well at right back last week as Boro got their first win since Gareth Southgate was sacked. Danny Coyne will be on the bench.
Neal Eardley and Rob Edwards’ recalls to Blackpool’s starting line-up didn’t go as planned on Saturday but that wasn’t their fault. David Vaughan scored an own goal but it’s not his fault Barnsley need the opposition to score their goals for them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
