Aston Villa
James Collins scored his second goal of the season to get a draw against rivals Birmingham City. He was Aston Villa’s Man of the Match against Wigan Athletic.
League: Birmingham A 1-1 (G1 73, Y foul 86, played all)
League: Man City H 1-0 (played all)
League: Wigan A 1-2 (played all)
FA Cup: Blackburn H 3-1 (bench, on 68)
League: Man Utd A 2-1 (played all)
Blackpool
Who would have guessed at the start of the season that Blackpool fans would be sitting in Old Trafford, feeling disappointed that they didn’t beat Manchester United? They so deserve to stay up but it’s going to be tough.
Neal Eardley was off the field when Blackpool conceded for the first time, having been kicked in the face by the Man Utd goalscorer.
League: WBA A 3-2 (starts, off 67)
League: Sunderland H 1-2 (played all)
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (played all)
League: West Ham H 1-3 (played all)
David Vaughan picked up another assist when he won a penalty for Blackpool but sadly they lost to Sunderland, who promptly tried to buy him.
League: WBA A 3-2 (G1 11, Y foul 56, played all)
League: Sunderland H 1-2 (won pen 86Y 94, played all)
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (played all)
League: West Ham H 1-3 (played all)
Rob Edwards
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (bench)
Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts
League: Stoke A 2-0 (played all)
League: Chelsea H 0-4 (bench)
FA Cup: FA Wigan H 0-0 (Y foul 59, played all)
League: Wolves H 1-0 (played all)
Fulham
Simon Davies
League: Wigan A 1-1 (starts, off 76)
League: Stoke H 2-0 (bench)
League: Liverpool A 1-0 (bench)
FA Cup: Spurs H 4-0 (bench, on 80)
League: Newcastle H 1-0 (bench, on 87)
Manchester United
Ryan Giggs – who has been voted Manchester United’s best-ever player - got the assist to start Manchester United’s hard-fought comeback against Blackpool. Yes, I did write hard-fought comeback against Blackpool. He also scored and got an assist in Man Utd’s 5-0 home thrashing of Birmingham City.
Ryan thinks his newly-retired team-mate Gary Neville will be a great assistant manager – but not a great manager.
League: Spurs A 0-0 (played all)
League: Birmingham H 5-0 (starts, G3 45+2, A4 53, off 55)
League: Blackpool A 2-3 (bench, on 46, A2 74)
FA Cup: FA Soton A 1-2 (bench)
League: Villa H 3-1 (played all)
Owen Hargreaves is still out with a hamstring injury – and could be the third Manchester United player to announcement his retirement this season, following his omission from Manchester United’s Champions’ League squad. He has, however, been named in the Premier League squad.
Michael Owen made his first start for Manchester United since returning from a hamstring injury. He started for a weakened Man Utd side who came from behind to beat Southampton 2-1 in the FA Cup. He was happy to play but he admits it wasn’t easy.
Michael’s horse-riding stable has raised hundreds of pounds for the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre.
League: Spurs A 0-0 (bench)
League: Birmingham H 5-0 (bench, on 55)
League: Blackpool A 2-3 (bench)
FA Cup: FA Soton A 0-1 (played all)
League: Villa H 3-1 (bench)
Showing posts with label michael owen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label michael owen. Show all posts
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Saturday, 22 January 2011
Premier League Fixtures 22nd January (Part 2)
Manchester United v Birmingham City
Birmingham travel to Old Trafford hoping to end Manchester United’s unbeaten run. Their league positions suggest this is unlikely. Manchester United have won 10 of their 11 home matches this season.
Ryan Giggs could start for Manchester United - and Alex Ferguson expects him to be still playing in the Premier League when he’s 40.
Michael Owen is only likely to be on the bench. Owen Hargreaves remains out with a hamstring injury but he is back in light training and there are vague rumours that he could be joining the even more Welsh Robbie Savage in Vancouver. However, Owen is expected to be left out of Manchester United’s Champions’ League squad for the knockout stages.
Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham haven’t got any points at St James’ Park in the league since 2004. A win for Tottenham would put them back into the top four, at least until Chelsea play.
Gareth Bale is obviously going to start but he might play at left back as Benoit Assou-Ekotto is a doubt.
Gareth is one of the favourites to be named Player of the Year. But he’s got big competition from Samir Nasri. It’s Wales v Arsenal. Whatever happens, I’ll be happy.
If Teddy Sheringham could play with any current Tottenham player, he would play with Gareth Bale. That makes two of us.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Liverpool
Wolves haven’t lost to Liverpool at home for three decades but Liverpool are yet to win with Kenny Dalglish as manager. They’ve also only won one away game this season.
Wayne Hennessey should be back in goal for this relegation clash. David Jones will hope to keep his place in the starting line-up after scoring against Doncaster Rovers midweek and Sam Vokes, who came off the bench in that match, probably has a good chance of being on the bench. Dave Edwards has presumably recovered from his hamstring injury but he now has flu (possibly caught from his manager?) and isn’t expected to play.
Birmingham travel to Old Trafford hoping to end Manchester United’s unbeaten run. Their league positions suggest this is unlikely. Manchester United have won 10 of their 11 home matches this season.
Ryan Giggs could start for Manchester United - and Alex Ferguson expects him to be still playing in the Premier League when he’s 40.
Michael Owen is only likely to be on the bench. Owen Hargreaves remains out with a hamstring injury but he is back in light training and there are vague rumours that he could be joining the even more Welsh Robbie Savage in Vancouver. However, Owen is expected to be left out of Manchester United’s Champions’ League squad for the knockout stages.
Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham haven’t got any points at St James’ Park in the league since 2004. A win for Tottenham would put them back into the top four, at least until Chelsea play.
Gareth Bale is obviously going to start but he might play at left back as Benoit Assou-Ekotto is a doubt.
Gareth is one of the favourites to be named Player of the Year. But he’s got big competition from Samir Nasri. It’s Wales v Arsenal. Whatever happens, I’ll be happy.
If Teddy Sheringham could play with any current Tottenham player, he would play with Gareth Bale. That makes two of us.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Liverpool
Wolves haven’t lost to Liverpool at home for three decades but Liverpool are yet to win with Kenny Dalglish as manager. They’ve also only won one away game this season.
Wayne Hennessey should be back in goal for this relegation clash. David Jones will hope to keep his place in the starting line-up after scoring against Doncaster Rovers midweek and Sam Vokes, who came off the bench in that match, probably has a good chance of being on the bench. Dave Edwards has presumably recovered from his hamstring injury but he now has flu (possibly caught from his manager?) and isn’t expected to play.
Thursday, 20 January 2011
Premier League Results 16th January 2011
Birmingham City 1-1 Aston Villa
This was not the only Sunday derby it was also not the only one to end in a draw – in fact, the only team to win on Sunday were Barnet Ladies. Birmingham remain a point above Villa, who are only out of the relegation zone on goal difference.
James Collins was back in the starting line-up and showed Aston Villa just how stupid it would be to sell him when his 73rd-minute goal sealed a point for Villa. He also did his job at the other end of the pitch when Birmingham’s Arsenal rejects started causing trouble. James thinks Villa need to play every match as though it’s a derby.
James was one of a group of Aston Villa players who visited a Worcester hospice this week after their Christmas visit had to be cancelled due to the snow.
Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 Manchester United
Typical. On one of the few occasions where there is a definite advantage in Tottenham’s winning, they go all rubbish again and can’t do it. Tottenham did at least restrict them to one point but they couldn’t do anything about Man Utd’s unbeaten run which is starting to look worrying. Man Utd did not play particularly well as usual and Tottenham weren’t bad but Man Utd just refused to lose.
Gareth Bale could have got a couple of assists for Tottenham. Team-mate Rafael van der Vaart believes Gareth is good enough to play in Spain. But he also says that Arsenal have no chance of beating Barcelona so he probably doesn’t know what he’s talking about really. Not that he's wrong about Gareth.
Ryan Giggs made his 600th appearance for Manchester United. Michael Owen was on the bench.
This was not the only Sunday derby it was also not the only one to end in a draw – in fact, the only team to win on Sunday were Barnet Ladies. Birmingham remain a point above Villa, who are only out of the relegation zone on goal difference.
James Collins was back in the starting line-up and showed Aston Villa just how stupid it would be to sell him when his 73rd-minute goal sealed a point for Villa. He also did his job at the other end of the pitch when Birmingham’s Arsenal rejects started causing trouble. James thinks Villa need to play every match as though it’s a derby.
James was one of a group of Aston Villa players who visited a Worcester hospice this week after their Christmas visit had to be cancelled due to the snow.
Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 Manchester United
Typical. On one of the few occasions where there is a definite advantage in Tottenham’s winning, they go all rubbish again and can’t do it. Tottenham did at least restrict them to one point but they couldn’t do anything about Man Utd’s unbeaten run which is starting to look worrying. Man Utd did not play particularly well as usual and Tottenham weren’t bad but Man Utd just refused to lose.
Gareth Bale could have got a couple of assists for Tottenham. Team-mate Rafael van der Vaart believes Gareth is good enough to play in Spain. But he also says that Arsenal have no chance of beating Barcelona so he probably doesn’t know what he’s talking about really. Not that he's wrong about Gareth.
Ryan Giggs made his 600th appearance for Manchester United. Michael Owen was on the bench.
Saturday, 8 January 2011
Transfer News and Rumours 8th January 2011 (Premier League)
Arsenal will not allow Nottingham Forest to extend Aaron Ramsey’s loan spell with them. And quite right too.
Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers are fighting it out to sign James Collins from Aston Villa.
Ian Holloway says he could sell his stars including David Vaughan… if a top four club wants them.
Manchester United have first refusal on their former player Ryan Shawcross, according to Stoke City manager Tony Pulis. Apparently, Alex Ferguson sorted that out when he sold Ryan to Stoke. Ryan won’t move this January however.
Sir Alex Ferguson doesn’t want Michael Owen to leave Manchester United just yet. West Ham United will be disappointed to hear that.
Or no wait, maybe Sir Alex Ferguson does want Michael to leave. And he can take Owen Hargreaves and possibly Ryan Giggs with him.
If Michael is in need of a new club, Everton are said to be interested.
Ryan Giggs’ contract ends this season but he is expected to sign a new one. As long as the lure of New York Cosmos doesn’t prove too great.
Gareth Bale’s agent says that Inter Milan, AC Milan, Juventus and Real Madrid are all interested in signing the Tottenham Hotspur left-footer. They’d be lucky. Gareth’s says that Gareth wants to play in Italy and maybe he does but what’s the poor boy supposed to say if his Italian agent asks if he would like to play in Italy one day? He’s hardly going to say no, is he? He’s much too nice to say no.
The Welsh FA, however, aren’t too nice to say no. Or they haven’t been so far. Gareth wants to play for the Great Britain Olympic team, the GB people don’t want a team without Gareth – but nothing can happen unless the Welsh FA learn how to say yes. (Although to be fair to them, there is no real word for ‘yes’ in Welsh…)
Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers are fighting it out to sign James Collins from Aston Villa.
Ian Holloway says he could sell his stars including David Vaughan… if a top four club wants them.
Manchester United have first refusal on their former player Ryan Shawcross, according to Stoke City manager Tony Pulis. Apparently, Alex Ferguson sorted that out when he sold Ryan to Stoke. Ryan won’t move this January however.
Sir Alex Ferguson doesn’t want Michael Owen to leave Manchester United just yet. West Ham United will be disappointed to hear that.
Or no wait, maybe Sir Alex Ferguson does want Michael to leave. And he can take Owen Hargreaves and possibly Ryan Giggs with him.
If Michael is in need of a new club, Everton are said to be interested.
Ryan Giggs’ contract ends this season but he is expected to sign a new one. As long as the lure of New York Cosmos doesn’t prove too great.
Gareth Bale’s agent says that Inter Milan, AC Milan, Juventus and Real Madrid are all interested in signing the Tottenham Hotspur left-footer. They’d be lucky. Gareth’s says that Gareth wants to play in Italy and maybe he does but what’s the poor boy supposed to say if his Italian agent asks if he would like to play in Italy one day? He’s hardly going to say no, is he? He’s much too nice to say no.
The Welsh FA, however, aren’t too nice to say no. Or they haven’t been so far. Gareth wants to play for the Great Britain Olympic team, the GB people don’t want a team without Gareth – but nothing can happen unless the Welsh FA learn how to say yes. (Although to be fair to them, there is no real word for ‘yes’ in Welsh…)
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 (Premier League, Part 2)
Manchester United
Ryan Giggs returned from a hamstring injury and after being careful with him for a few matches, Sir Alex Ferguson has started him regularly. The rumour is that Gary Speed wants Ryan either to play for Wales again or to become part of his coaching team.
Sunderland H 2-0 (starts, off 63)
Birmingham A 1-1 (Y dissent 91, played all)
West Brom A 1-2 (unselected, presumably rested)
Stoke H 2-1 (played all)
Owen Hargreaves’ injury nightmare continues. He got his hamstring injury at about the same time as Ryan Giggs and Michael Owen got theirs but while they are back in matchday squads again, Owen is wondering if this football business is really worth it. Owen’s situation is sadder than his decision not to play for Wales – a lot sadder - and I really hope his next comeback works out for him. He didn’t get to play over Christmas.
Michael Owen might have got the chance to play regularly when Wayne Rooney went tits up (and not just tits) but then he went and injured himself. But he’s not injury prone. He’s not. If you don’t believe me, ask Michael.
Michael has been linked with a move to Aston Villa, who are managed by Michael’s former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier but Houllier has claimed he is not keen. That’s what all the managers say.
Michael made his comeback from a hamstring injury in Manchester United’s win over Stoke.
Sunderland H 2-0 (out, hamstring)
Birmingham A 1-1 (out, hamstring)
West Brom A 1-2 (bench)
Stoke H 2-1 (bench, on 71)
Stoke City
Danny Collins is back in the Wales fold and he’s also doing well for Stoke – so far Tony Pulis’ admittedly few attempts to leave him on the bench have come to nothing.
Danny remains a regular fixture in Stoke’s defence.
Blackburn A 0-2 (played all)
Fulham H 0-2 (played all)
Everton H 2-0 (Y foul 12, played all)
Man Utd A 2-1 (played all)
Ryan Shawcross was probably quite relieved when he discovered that Aaron Ramsey was on loan at Nottingham Forest and therefore wouldn’t be around when Stoke City visited the Emirates. But that match was postponed and the two young players could be facing off against each other again. I kind of think the best thing is for them to get the match out of the way as soon as possible so people like me can stop talking about it.
Blackburn A 0-2 (Y foul 44, played all)
Fulham H 0-2 (played all)
Everton H 2-0 (played all)
Man Utd A 2-1 (played all)
Tottenham Hotspur
Gareth Bale has been linked to almost every big club in the world which is hardly surprising as he has got rather good all of a sudden. Two years ago he wasn’t always getting into Tottenham’s matchday squad. One year ago, Tottenham fans watched nervously as the jinx was forced to take to the field. This year, who could think of leaving Gareth out of the team? I can only echo Theo Walcott’s view: he should have come to Arsenal.
Gareth scored all (both) Tottenham’s goals in their wins over Newcastle and Fulham but he worryingly limped out of their defeat to Everton after aggravating a back injury he’d picked up in the first half.
Villa A 1-2 (played all)
Newcastle H 1-0 (G2 81, played all))
Fulham H 1-0 (G1 42, played all)
Everton A 2-1 (starts, off 58 back)
West Bromwich Albion
Boaz Myhill has been sitting on the bench for West Bromwich Albion, who have developed an annoying habit of being too far up the table to warrant a change of goalkeeper.
Bolton A 1-0 (bench)
Blackburn H 1-3 (bench)
Man Utd H 1-2 (bench)
Fulham A 3-0 (bench)
West Ham United
I don’t want to jinx Danny Gabbidon but it’s been great seeing him have such a long run in the team after a good three years of injury troubles. Admittedly, he’s not exactly part of the strongest defence in the league and he is human, there has been the odd moment when his play hasn’t been completely perfect but he’s playing. And he’s playing well.
Blackburn A 1-1 (played all)
Fulham A 1-3 (played all)
Everton H 1-1 (rested)
Wolves H 2-0 (played all)
Newcastle A 5-0 (played all)
I hope Jack Collison’s 2011 is markedly better than his 2010. Jack has spent the season so far recovering from a knee problem but he is back in full training and should return to West Ham United’s squad at any moment.
Wigan Athletic
Wigan sent Jason Koumas out on loan to Cardiff City and despite their troubles, they don’t seem to want him back. Let’s hope he can get Cardiff promoted come the end of the season and maybe then he’ll get to score against the team who didn’t want him. But maybe he won’t. Maybe Wigan won’t be in the Premier League.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wayne Hennessey finally regained his place as Wolverhampton Wanderers’ No. 1 and has played well, even keeping a couple of clean sheets. To say he has saved Wolves’ season would probably be a lie rather than an exaggeration but his performances can only help.
Wigan H 1-2 (played all)
Liverpool A 0-1 (played all)
West Ham A 2-0 (played all)
Chelsea H 1-0 (played all)
Dave Edwards returned from a hamstring injury and was probably not quite ready to play 90 minutes in every match. But he did play the full match against Chelsea – and look what happened.
Wigan H 1-2 (starts, off 54)
Liverpool A 0-1 (bench, on 89)
West Ham A 2-0 (bench, on 76)
Chelsea H 1-0 (played all)
David Jones has been unable to re-establish himself in Wolves’ team since recovering from a foot injury – but maybe he hasn’t completely recovered.
Wigan H 1-2 (bench)
Liverpool A 0-1 (bench)
West Ham A 2-0 (bench)
Chelsea H 1-0 (bench)
Sam Vokes returned to Wolves after a hugely disappointing loan spell at Bristol City. He lasted just thirteen minutes in his first game and never played for Bristol City again. Sam has seen a number of setbacks in an attempt to recover from a hamstring injury.
Ryan Giggs returned from a hamstring injury and after being careful with him for a few matches, Sir Alex Ferguson has started him regularly. The rumour is that Gary Speed wants Ryan either to play for Wales again or to become part of his coaching team.
Sunderland H 2-0 (starts, off 63)
Birmingham A 1-1 (Y dissent 91, played all)
West Brom A 1-2 (unselected, presumably rested)
Stoke H 2-1 (played all)
Owen Hargreaves’ injury nightmare continues. He got his hamstring injury at about the same time as Ryan Giggs and Michael Owen got theirs but while they are back in matchday squads again, Owen is wondering if this football business is really worth it. Owen’s situation is sadder than his decision not to play for Wales – a lot sadder - and I really hope his next comeback works out for him. He didn’t get to play over Christmas.
Michael Owen might have got the chance to play regularly when Wayne Rooney went tits up (and not just tits) but then he went and injured himself. But he’s not injury prone. He’s not. If you don’t believe me, ask Michael.
Michael has been linked with a move to Aston Villa, who are managed by Michael’s former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier but Houllier has claimed he is not keen. That’s what all the managers say.
Michael made his comeback from a hamstring injury in Manchester United’s win over Stoke.
Sunderland H 2-0 (out, hamstring)
Birmingham A 1-1 (out, hamstring)
West Brom A 1-2 (bench)
Stoke H 2-1 (bench, on 71)
Stoke City
Danny Collins is back in the Wales fold and he’s also doing well for Stoke – so far Tony Pulis’ admittedly few attempts to leave him on the bench have come to nothing.
Danny remains a regular fixture in Stoke’s defence.
Blackburn A 0-2 (played all)
Fulham H 0-2 (played all)
Everton H 2-0 (Y foul 12, played all)
Man Utd A 2-1 (played all)
Ryan Shawcross was probably quite relieved when he discovered that Aaron Ramsey was on loan at Nottingham Forest and therefore wouldn’t be around when Stoke City visited the Emirates. But that match was postponed and the two young players could be facing off against each other again. I kind of think the best thing is for them to get the match out of the way as soon as possible so people like me can stop talking about it.
Blackburn A 0-2 (Y foul 44, played all)
Fulham H 0-2 (played all)
Everton H 2-0 (played all)
Man Utd A 2-1 (played all)
Tottenham Hotspur
Gareth Bale has been linked to almost every big club in the world which is hardly surprising as he has got rather good all of a sudden. Two years ago he wasn’t always getting into Tottenham’s matchday squad. One year ago, Tottenham fans watched nervously as the jinx was forced to take to the field. This year, who could think of leaving Gareth out of the team? I can only echo Theo Walcott’s view: he should have come to Arsenal.
Gareth scored all (both) Tottenham’s goals in their wins over Newcastle and Fulham but he worryingly limped out of their defeat to Everton after aggravating a back injury he’d picked up in the first half.
Villa A 1-2 (played all)
Newcastle H 1-0 (G2 81, played all))
Fulham H 1-0 (G1 42, played all)
Everton A 2-1 (starts, off 58 back)
West Bromwich Albion
Boaz Myhill has been sitting on the bench for West Bromwich Albion, who have developed an annoying habit of being too far up the table to warrant a change of goalkeeper.
Bolton A 1-0 (bench)
Blackburn H 1-3 (bench)
Man Utd H 1-2 (bench)
Fulham A 3-0 (bench)
West Ham United
I don’t want to jinx Danny Gabbidon but it’s been great seeing him have such a long run in the team after a good three years of injury troubles. Admittedly, he’s not exactly part of the strongest defence in the league and he is human, there has been the odd moment when his play hasn’t been completely perfect but he’s playing. And he’s playing well.
Blackburn A 1-1 (played all)
Fulham A 1-3 (played all)
Everton H 1-1 (rested)
Wolves H 2-0 (played all)
Newcastle A 5-0 (played all)
I hope Jack Collison’s 2011 is markedly better than his 2010. Jack has spent the season so far recovering from a knee problem but he is back in full training and should return to West Ham United’s squad at any moment.
Wigan Athletic
Wigan sent Jason Koumas out on loan to Cardiff City and despite their troubles, they don’t seem to want him back. Let’s hope he can get Cardiff promoted come the end of the season and maybe then he’ll get to score against the team who didn’t want him. But maybe he won’t. Maybe Wigan won’t be in the Premier League.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wayne Hennessey finally regained his place as Wolverhampton Wanderers’ No. 1 and has played well, even keeping a couple of clean sheets. To say he has saved Wolves’ season would probably be a lie rather than an exaggeration but his performances can only help.
Wigan H 1-2 (played all)
Liverpool A 0-1 (played all)
West Ham A 2-0 (played all)
Chelsea H 1-0 (played all)
Dave Edwards returned from a hamstring injury and was probably not quite ready to play 90 minutes in every match. But he did play the full match against Chelsea – and look what happened.
Wigan H 1-2 (starts, off 54)
Liverpool A 0-1 (bench, on 89)
West Ham A 2-0 (bench, on 76)
Chelsea H 1-0 (played all)
David Jones has been unable to re-establish himself in Wolves’ team since recovering from a foot injury – but maybe he hasn’t completely recovered.
Wigan H 1-2 (bench)
Liverpool A 0-1 (bench)
West Ham A 2-0 (bench)
Chelsea H 1-0 (bench)
Sam Vokes returned to Wolves after a hugely disappointing loan spell at Bristol City. He lasted just thirteen minutes in his first game and never played for Bristol City again. Sam has seen a number of setbacks in an attempt to recover from a hamstring injury.
Saturday, 4 December 2010
Premier League Fixtures (and Postponements) 4th December 2010
Arsenal v Fulham
Arsenal might be only third in the league but they’re second in the form table and they’ve never lost to Fulham at home before. As for Fulham’s form, it’s all about drawing. They’ve drawn nine of their fifteen League matches this season and are yet to win away. They haven’t won away for 33 matches.
Simon Davies should start for Fulham.
Birmingham City v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham are having an injury crisis but I don’t have too much sympathy for them. They’d better hope they don’t get any penalties because the chances are, they’ll miss. Birmingham have only lost once at home this season.
Tottenham won’t be leaving out Gareth Bale.
Blackburn Rovers v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Blackburn really need to bounce back from last week’s embarrassing defeat while Wolves are still looking for their first clean sheet of the season. And their first away win. And their second away point.
Wayne Hennessey has done enough to hang onto his first-team place. David Jones is out after injuring his foot in Wolves’ match against Sunderland. Dave Edwards isn’t ready to return from a thigh injury and is using a scuba chamber in order to speed up his recovery.
Blackpool P-P Manchester United
This match is postponed due to Blackpool’s lack of undersoil heating.
Michael Owen will be back from his hamstring injury soon. But Owen Hargreaves’ return has been put back again.
Blackpool will hope the rearranged match happens before the transfer window as contract talks have hit a problem: David Vaughan doesn’t want to take a pay cut if Blackpool gets relegated. Well, if they keep going as they have, pay cut clauses shouldn’t come into it.
Manchester City v Bolton Wanderers
Manchester City haven’t scored at home in the league for two months. And with their strikers, there’s no excuse. But this offers Bolton the chance to reclaim their place in the top four.
Sam Ricketts should keep his place in Bolton’s starting line-up.
Wigan Athletic v Stoke City
Stoke will be hoping Wigan left back Maynor Figueroa doesn’t score another Goal of the Season but this season he hasn’t looked like the sort of player you’d want to buy to replace Gareth Bale. But who does? Stoke are unbeaten in four matches.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross should both start for Stoke. Tony Pulis says he is focusing on Stoke’s survival rather than a top ten finish.
Arsenal might be only third in the league but they’re second in the form table and they’ve never lost to Fulham at home before. As for Fulham’s form, it’s all about drawing. They’ve drawn nine of their fifteen League matches this season and are yet to win away. They haven’t won away for 33 matches.
Simon Davies should start for Fulham.
Birmingham City v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham are having an injury crisis but I don’t have too much sympathy for them. They’d better hope they don’t get any penalties because the chances are, they’ll miss. Birmingham have only lost once at home this season.
Tottenham won’t be leaving out Gareth Bale.
Blackburn Rovers v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Blackburn really need to bounce back from last week’s embarrassing defeat while Wolves are still looking for their first clean sheet of the season. And their first away win. And their second away point.
Wayne Hennessey has done enough to hang onto his first-team place. David Jones is out after injuring his foot in Wolves’ match against Sunderland. Dave Edwards isn’t ready to return from a thigh injury and is using a scuba chamber in order to speed up his recovery.
Blackpool P-P Manchester United
This match is postponed due to Blackpool’s lack of undersoil heating.
Michael Owen will be back from his hamstring injury soon. But Owen Hargreaves’ return has been put back again.
Blackpool will hope the rearranged match happens before the transfer window as contract talks have hit a problem: David Vaughan doesn’t want to take a pay cut if Blackpool gets relegated. Well, if they keep going as they have, pay cut clauses shouldn’t come into it.
Manchester City v Bolton Wanderers
Manchester City haven’t scored at home in the league for two months. And with their strikers, there’s no excuse. But this offers Bolton the chance to reclaim their place in the top four.
Sam Ricketts should keep his place in Bolton’s starting line-up.
Wigan Athletic v Stoke City
Stoke will be hoping Wigan left back Maynor Figueroa doesn’t score another Goal of the Season but this season he hasn’t looked like the sort of player you’d want to buy to replace Gareth Bale. But who does? Stoke are unbeaten in four matches.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross should both start for Stoke. Tony Pulis says he is focusing on Stoke’s survival rather than a top ten finish.
Saturday, 27 November 2010
Premier League Fixtures 27th November 2010 (Part 2)
Manchester United v Blackburn Rovers
Manchester United are unbeaten in 28 matches. While this might not seem particularly impressive if you’re an Arsenal fan, it probably is quite good really.
Ryan Giggs made his comeback from a hamstring injury against Rangers but after playing 90 minutes, he might need a rest for this game. And the FAW would love to sit down with him – and talk him into managing Wales. Michael Owen’s and Owen Hargreaves’ hamstrings are still dodgy so they won’t play.
Stoke City v Manchester City
Stoke lost four consecutive matches before embarking on their current winning streak. If the win today, it will be four consecutive wins. Manchester City have never beaten Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross should start for Stoke. But Ryan could be starting for Liverpool soon.
West Ham United v Wigan Athletic
A win against Wigan played a big part in saving West Ham from relegation this season. It’s going to take quite a lot more than that this time around but the sooner they can start winning, the better. A year ago today, Avram Grant became manager of Portsmouth. Portsmouth spent the rest of that season in 20th place. Under Grant, West Ham have never left the bottom three. West Ham say his job is safe. I think the safest thing will be to give it to someone else. Wigan are looking for their second away win this season.
Danny Gabbidon should keep his place in West Ham’s starting line-up. Jack Collison is still out following knee surgery.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Sunderland
Wolves have lost nine of their last eleven league matches. Sunderland have not lost to any of the team they’ve played so far who finished in the top half last season (whoever it is who keeps track of this sort of stat, is he/she single? Football stats are nearly as sexy as Welsh grammar). However, Sunderland have only won one away game this season.
David Jones will hope to keep his place in Wolves’ starting line-up but Wayne Hennessey will probably be on the bench – although it’s not just me who thinks he should play. Dave Edwards isn’t ready to return from a thigh injury.
David says Wolves really need to win this match. And he thinks it could happen.
Manchester United are unbeaten in 28 matches. While this might not seem particularly impressive if you’re an Arsenal fan, it probably is quite good really.
Ryan Giggs made his comeback from a hamstring injury against Rangers but after playing 90 minutes, he might need a rest for this game. And the FAW would love to sit down with him – and talk him into managing Wales. Michael Owen’s and Owen Hargreaves’ hamstrings are still dodgy so they won’t play.
Stoke City v Manchester City
Stoke lost four consecutive matches before embarking on their current winning streak. If the win today, it will be four consecutive wins. Manchester City have never beaten Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross should start for Stoke. But Ryan could be starting for Liverpool soon.
West Ham United v Wigan Athletic
A win against Wigan played a big part in saving West Ham from relegation this season. It’s going to take quite a lot more than that this time around but the sooner they can start winning, the better. A year ago today, Avram Grant became manager of Portsmouth. Portsmouth spent the rest of that season in 20th place. Under Grant, West Ham have never left the bottom three. West Ham say his job is safe. I think the safest thing will be to give it to someone else. Wigan are looking for their second away win this season.
Danny Gabbidon should keep his place in West Ham’s starting line-up. Jack Collison is still out following knee surgery.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Sunderland
Wolves have lost nine of their last eleven league matches. Sunderland have not lost to any of the team they’ve played so far who finished in the top half last season (whoever it is who keeps track of this sort of stat, is he/she single? Football stats are nearly as sexy as Welsh grammar). However, Sunderland have only won one away game this season.
David Jones will hope to keep his place in Wolves’ starting line-up but Wayne Hennessey will probably be on the bench – although it’s not just me who thinks he should play. Dave Edwards isn’t ready to return from a thigh injury.
David says Wolves really need to win this match. And he thinks it could happen.
Saturday, 20 November 2010
Premier League Fixtures/News 20th November 2010
Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur
A win could take Arsenal up to where they should be – the top of the table – but perhaps only until the end of Chelsea’s match against Birmingham City. Right back Bacary Sagna has the task of keeping Gareth Bale quiet. All his team-mates say he’s quiet but the opposition tends not to agree.
Gareth will be up against former Southampton room-mate Theo Walcott but not Wales team-mate Aaron Ramsey, who recently played for Arsenal’s reserves. If Gareth wants to score a hat-trick against Arsenal that’s fine but you know the rules, Gareth. Wait until you’re 4-0 down.
Blackpool v Wolverhampton Wanderers
It will be a dangerous night for the town of Blackpool, who will be visited firstly by some Wolves and then by Ann Widdecombe. The only thing you can be sure of is that Blackpool will have a good go. And Wolves will have a good go. And Ann Widdecombe will have a good go too. Whatever the result, I’m sure the people of Blackpool will be laughing tonight. And that’s just those who hear what the managers have to say.
Blackpool have only won once at home this season – but that’s still one more than Wolves have won away.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will hope to keep their places in Blackpool’s starting line-up but Blackpool have competition in every position, as players including Rob Edwards showed when the first-choice players were rested against Aston Villa. Neal says he is making no predictions on where Blackpool will finish their first Premier League season.
Wolves' Dave Edwards is doubtful due to an ankle injury so David Jones will hope to keep his place in the squad although he’s most likely to be on the bench with Wayne Hennessey. Wayne really wants to go out on loan but Mick McCarthy says no. The meanie.
Bolton Wanderers v Newcastle United
Bolton striker Kevin Davies wasn’t in the England squad this week and it’s all Newcastle striker Andy Carroll’s fault. Which big tough striker will win this battle? I wonder if Kevin Davies is as Welsh as his surname. Imagine him and Craig Bellamy playing up front for Wales. Provided they don’t kill each other, it would be a great partnership.
Sam Ricketts will hope to keep his place in Bolton’s defence but the guy he replaced is back from suspension and about to make his 100th appearance so I bet Owen Coyle will do the soppy thing and put Sam back on the bench.
Liverpool v West Ham United
The chairmen of Liverpool and West Ham have said this week that they have confidence in managers Roy Hodgson and Avram Grant. But they didn’t say how much confidence and I’m guessing this confidence is something that could disappear quite suddenly following this match. West Ham are still looking for their first away win of the season.
Danny Gabbidon will play in defence for West Ham but Jack Collison is still a way away from his return from a knee injury.
Manchester United v Wigan Athletic
Wigan have never won away at a Big Four club although they probably have really considering Liverpool aren’t really one of those anymore. Manchester United are the only team in the country to be unbeaten in all competitions (though that’s probably not completely true).
If you play for Manchester United and you have a Welsh connection I don’t know about, watch out for your hamstrings. Ryan Giggs, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Owen didn’t although Ryan could return for this match.
West Bromwich Albion v Stoke City
West Brom have loads of injuries but Stoke aren’t known for their away wins and have only managed one this season.
Roberto di Matteo has said he might change his starting line-up so he can play ‘big’ players against Stoke. First-choice goalkeeper Scott Carson is six feet tall. Boaz Myhill is six feet three. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Probably not.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross will play in defence for Stoke.
Ryan wants Stoke to be more consistent. I bet he wouldn’t have said that if they hadn’t beat Liverpool, they were perfectly consistent up until then. Then they went and spoiled it. Poor Ryan.
A win could take Arsenal up to where they should be – the top of the table – but perhaps only until the end of Chelsea’s match against Birmingham City. Right back Bacary Sagna has the task of keeping Gareth Bale quiet. All his team-mates say he’s quiet but the opposition tends not to agree.
Gareth will be up against former Southampton room-mate Theo Walcott but not Wales team-mate Aaron Ramsey, who recently played for Arsenal’s reserves. If Gareth wants to score a hat-trick against Arsenal that’s fine but you know the rules, Gareth. Wait until you’re 4-0 down.
Blackpool v Wolverhampton Wanderers
It will be a dangerous night for the town of Blackpool, who will be visited firstly by some Wolves and then by Ann Widdecombe. The only thing you can be sure of is that Blackpool will have a good go. And Wolves will have a good go. And Ann Widdecombe will have a good go too. Whatever the result, I’m sure the people of Blackpool will be laughing tonight. And that’s just those who hear what the managers have to say.
Blackpool have only won once at home this season – but that’s still one more than Wolves have won away.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will hope to keep their places in Blackpool’s starting line-up but Blackpool have competition in every position, as players including Rob Edwards showed when the first-choice players were rested against Aston Villa. Neal says he is making no predictions on where Blackpool will finish their first Premier League season.
Wolves' Dave Edwards is doubtful due to an ankle injury so David Jones will hope to keep his place in the squad although he’s most likely to be on the bench with Wayne Hennessey. Wayne really wants to go out on loan but Mick McCarthy says no. The meanie.
Bolton Wanderers v Newcastle United
Bolton striker Kevin Davies wasn’t in the England squad this week and it’s all Newcastle striker Andy Carroll’s fault. Which big tough striker will win this battle? I wonder if Kevin Davies is as Welsh as his surname. Imagine him and Craig Bellamy playing up front for Wales. Provided they don’t kill each other, it would be a great partnership.
Sam Ricketts will hope to keep his place in Bolton’s defence but the guy he replaced is back from suspension and about to make his 100th appearance so I bet Owen Coyle will do the soppy thing and put Sam back on the bench.
Liverpool v West Ham United
The chairmen of Liverpool and West Ham have said this week that they have confidence in managers Roy Hodgson and Avram Grant. But they didn’t say how much confidence and I’m guessing this confidence is something that could disappear quite suddenly following this match. West Ham are still looking for their first away win of the season.
Danny Gabbidon will play in defence for West Ham but Jack Collison is still a way away from his return from a knee injury.
Manchester United v Wigan Athletic
Wigan have never won away at a Big Four club although they probably have really considering Liverpool aren’t really one of those anymore. Manchester United are the only team in the country to be unbeaten in all competitions (though that’s probably not completely true).
If you play for Manchester United and you have a Welsh connection I don’t know about, watch out for your hamstrings. Ryan Giggs, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Owen didn’t although Ryan could return for this match.
West Bromwich Albion v Stoke City
West Brom have loads of injuries but Stoke aren’t known for their away wins and have only managed one this season.
Roberto di Matteo has said he might change his starting line-up so he can play ‘big’ players against Stoke. First-choice goalkeeper Scott Carson is six feet tall. Boaz Myhill is six feet three. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Probably not.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross will play in defence for Stoke.
Ryan wants Stoke to be more consistent. I bet he wouldn’t have said that if they hadn’t beat Liverpool, they were perfectly consistent up until then. Then they went and spoiled it. Poor Ryan.
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Premier League Results 13th November 2010 (Part 1)
Aston Villa 2-2 Manchester United
Aston Villa kept their unbeaten home record intact but let a 2-0 lead slip in the last ten minutes to give Manchester United another undeserved point. Manchester United are unbeaten both home and away.
James Collins scored for Villa in their last game and could have made it two in two but his effort hit the crossbar. James believes Villa should have won and he’s kind of right really.
Ryan Giggs, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Owen were sitting on Utd’s treatment table nursing their hamstrings.
Jordan Henderson says he really looked up to Ryan as a child. Not when you were sitting on his shoulders, you didn’t, Jordan.
Newcastle United 0-0 Fulham
When you’ve just suffered the agony of watching your team being beaten by Newcastle, the last thing you want is then to see that team only managing to draw against a team who can’t win away.
Unfortunately, this is what they did. Imagine how embarrassing it would have been if Bobby Zamora was fit.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham. He used to do things like that for Wales.
Stoke City 2-0 Liverpool
Those people who say Liverpool are back to their old selves are not wrong. After a couple of blips which saw Fernando Torres score goals, Liverpool are back to what they do best. Stoke moved into the top half of the table, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference after beating them for the first time for twenty-six years. Torres would have been a few months old at most. But there is some good news for the Liverpool fans: Lucas won’t be playing next week.
Ryan Shawcross and Danny Collins helped Stoke to keep a clean sheet.
Tony Pulis isn’t going to criticise Fabio Capello for leaving Ryan Shawcross out of the England side (neither am I!) but he does make it clear he’s left out the best young centre back in the country.
Tottenham Hotspur 4-2 Blackburn Rovers
There, you see. He doesn’t just do it against the big sides. He does it against Blackburn too. Gareth Bale tied Michel Salgado in so many knots (again), he was taken off after 37 minutes and replaced by a striker. Well, Gareth went past him like he wasn’t there so he might as well not be.
Gareth, who was making his 100th league appearance, scored Tottenham’s first goal, set up the second and scored the fourth, ensuring that a first-half penalty miss (not from Gareth) didn’t matter. I don’t know what he was doing when the third goal went in, probably doing his hair or something. But if Gareth keeps being Man of the Match, they need to change the rules and give him a bottle of something he’ll actually drink.
Blackburn weren’t great but at least they had a go at fighting back. That’s not something you’ll see from every team.
Aston Villa kept their unbeaten home record intact but let a 2-0 lead slip in the last ten minutes to give Manchester United another undeserved point. Manchester United are unbeaten both home and away.
James Collins scored for Villa in their last game and could have made it two in two but his effort hit the crossbar. James believes Villa should have won and he’s kind of right really.
Ryan Giggs, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Owen were sitting on Utd’s treatment table nursing their hamstrings.
Jordan Henderson says he really looked up to Ryan as a child. Not when you were sitting on his shoulders, you didn’t, Jordan.
Newcastle United 0-0 Fulham
When you’ve just suffered the agony of watching your team being beaten by Newcastle, the last thing you want is then to see that team only managing to draw against a team who can’t win away.
Unfortunately, this is what they did. Imagine how embarrassing it would have been if Bobby Zamora was fit.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham. He used to do things like that for Wales.
Stoke City 2-0 Liverpool
Those people who say Liverpool are back to their old selves are not wrong. After a couple of blips which saw Fernando Torres score goals, Liverpool are back to what they do best. Stoke moved into the top half of the table, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference after beating them for the first time for twenty-six years. Torres would have been a few months old at most. But there is some good news for the Liverpool fans: Lucas won’t be playing next week.
Ryan Shawcross and Danny Collins helped Stoke to keep a clean sheet.
Tony Pulis isn’t going to criticise Fabio Capello for leaving Ryan Shawcross out of the England side (neither am I!) but he does make it clear he’s left out the best young centre back in the country.
Tottenham Hotspur 4-2 Blackburn Rovers
There, you see. He doesn’t just do it against the big sides. He does it against Blackburn too. Gareth Bale tied Michel Salgado in so many knots (again), he was taken off after 37 minutes and replaced by a striker. Well, Gareth went past him like he wasn’t there so he might as well not be.
Gareth, who was making his 100th league appearance, scored Tottenham’s first goal, set up the second and scored the fourth, ensuring that a first-half penalty miss (not from Gareth) didn’t matter. I don’t know what he was doing when the third goal went in, probably doing his hair or something. But if Gareth keeps being Man of the Match, they need to change the rules and give him a bottle of something he’ll actually drink.
Blackburn weren’t great but at least they had a go at fighting back. That’s not something you’ll see from every team.
Friday, 12 November 2010
Premier League Fixtures 13th November 2010 (Part 1)
Aston Villa v Manchester United
Aston Villa are just a point behind fifth place and will hope to build on their late victory over Blackpool this week. And right now, Manchester United’s name probably doesn’t strike fear into the heart of every footballer.
Aston Villa would be very silly to leave James Collins out and he only made himself more valuable with his last-minute winner against Blackpool this week. But be careful, Man Utd. James hasn’t forgotten the Carling Cup final.
It was thought Ryan Giggs could return from a hamstring injury for Manchester United but it looks like he won’t make it. Michael Owen’s and Owen Hargreaves’ hamstrings are also still playing up. Owen is likely to be out until mid-December.
Newcastle United v Fulham
Newcastle were predicted to struggle and there’s plenty of time for them to struggle later on in the season. Fulham are looking for their first away win since August. And I’m not talking about August 2010.
There’s no word on Simon Davies’ ankle but he’s already played two in the last week for Fulham and that’s something likely to trouble any long-term injury.
Mark Hughes has only won four of his last 23 Premier League games but it’s not as bad as it sounds, most of them were draws so he was mostly unbeaten.
Stoke City v Liverpool
Stoke are out of the bottom three and they have the home advantage which can make a real difference to them. But Liverpool aren’t looking nearly as bad as they did two weeks ago. Relegation battle? Oh no, everyone’s talking about the Champions’ League now. Fernando Torres finds the net for once (or three times) and suddenly people are deleting the last three letters from the word Championship and adding the word League instead.
Ryan Shawcross has completed a one-match ban so he returns for Stoke. Danny Collins should also play.
Tottenham Hotspur v Blackburn Rovers
Tottenham can do the business against Inter Milan but when it comes to the Premier League, they’ve been struggling – although they are a point away from the Europa League place. Blackburn’s right back had a nightmare against Gareth Bale last time they played – and Gareth is even better now.
Tottenham will be hoping Gareth Bale stays fit. Not only is he a very important player for them, they have eleven players out injured already.
Aston Villa are just a point behind fifth place and will hope to build on their late victory over Blackpool this week. And right now, Manchester United’s name probably doesn’t strike fear into the heart of every footballer.
Aston Villa would be very silly to leave James Collins out and he only made himself more valuable with his last-minute winner against Blackpool this week. But be careful, Man Utd. James hasn’t forgotten the Carling Cup final.
It was thought Ryan Giggs could return from a hamstring injury for Manchester United but it looks like he won’t make it. Michael Owen’s and Owen Hargreaves’ hamstrings are also still playing up. Owen is likely to be out until mid-December.
Newcastle United v Fulham
Newcastle were predicted to struggle and there’s plenty of time for them to struggle later on in the season. Fulham are looking for their first away win since August. And I’m not talking about August 2010.
There’s no word on Simon Davies’ ankle but he’s already played two in the last week for Fulham and that’s something likely to trouble any long-term injury.
Mark Hughes has only won four of his last 23 Premier League games but it’s not as bad as it sounds, most of them were draws so he was mostly unbeaten.
Stoke City v Liverpool
Stoke are out of the bottom three and they have the home advantage which can make a real difference to them. But Liverpool aren’t looking nearly as bad as they did two weeks ago. Relegation battle? Oh no, everyone’s talking about the Champions’ League now. Fernando Torres finds the net for once (or three times) and suddenly people are deleting the last three letters from the word Championship and adding the word League instead.
Ryan Shawcross has completed a one-match ban so he returns for Stoke. Danny Collins should also play.
Tottenham Hotspur v Blackburn Rovers
Tottenham can do the business against Inter Milan but when it comes to the Premier League, they’ve been struggling – although they are a point away from the Europa League place. Blackburn’s right back had a nightmare against Gareth Bale last time they played – and Gareth is even better now.
Tottenham will be hoping Gareth Bale stays fit. Not only is he a very important player for them, they have eleven players out injured already.
Saturday, 6 November 2010
Premier League Fixtures 6th November 2010 (Part 2)
Manchester United v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Ryan Giggs and Michael Owen (I think both hamstring) and Owen Hargreaves (calf) are all likely to miss out for Manchester United.
Dave Edwards deserves to keep his place for Wolves after an excellent performance last weekend. David Jones wasn’t even in the squad although he was named in Match of the Day’s Team of the Week which is really something of an achievement. Wayne Hennessey will be on the bench.
Sunderland v Stoke City
Danny Collins could be one of six former Sunderland players in Stoke’s starting line-up. Ryan Shawcross shoud also play.
Ryan Giggs and Michael Owen (I think both hamstring) and Owen Hargreaves (calf) are all likely to miss out for Manchester United.
Dave Edwards deserves to keep his place for Wolves after an excellent performance last weekend. David Jones wasn’t even in the squad although he was named in Match of the Day’s Team of the Week which is really something of an achievement. Wayne Hennessey will be on the bench.
Sunderland v Stoke City
Danny Collins could be one of six former Sunderland players in Stoke’s starting line-up. Ryan Shawcross shoud also play.
Tuesday, 2 November 2010
Champions' League Fixture 2nd November 2010
Bursaspor v Manchester United
Manchester United are without Ryan Giggs (hamstring), Owen Hargreaves (calf and probably also knees) and Michael Owen (not sure, it seems to be different every week but the latest news says hamstring). But I bet they win anyway.
Tottenham Hotspur v Inter Milan
In theory, this match should be easier for Tottenham than the one at the San Siro. Much is expected of Gareth Bale, who scored just the right amout of goals to make himself look good without spoiling the fun of seeing Tottenham lose. And if Gareth can score a hat-trick at the San Siro, just imagine what he can do at White Hart Lane.
4-5 anyone?
Manchester United are without Ryan Giggs (hamstring), Owen Hargreaves (calf and probably also knees) and Michael Owen (not sure, it seems to be different every week but the latest news says hamstring). But I bet they win anyway.
Tottenham Hotspur v Inter Milan
In theory, this match should be easier for Tottenham than the one at the San Siro. Much is expected of Gareth Bale, who scored just the right amout of goals to make himself look good without spoiling the fun of seeing Tottenham lose. And if Gareth can score a hat-trick at the San Siro, just imagine what he can do at White Hart Lane.
4-5 anyone?
Welsh Player News 1st November 2010 (Premier League)
Ryan Giggs is back in training and could return from a hamstring injury in time for the derby with Manchester City on November 10th.
Sir Alex Ferguson says Owen Hargreaves will have to play this season or he will have trouble recovering mentally from his injury problems.
Anyone who writes Michael Owen off is making a big mistake.
Tony Pulis isn’t happy about Stoke City’s disallowed goal.
Dave Edwards believes Wolverhampton Wanderers’ win over Manchester City will kick-start their season. And maybe there will be another Manchester win to come.
Sir Alex Ferguson says Owen Hargreaves will have to play this season or he will have trouble recovering mentally from his injury problems.
Anyone who writes Michael Owen off is making a big mistake.
Tony Pulis isn’t happy about Stoke City’s disallowed goal.
Dave Edwards believes Wolverhampton Wanderers’ win over Manchester City will kick-start their season. And maybe there will be another Manchester win to come.
Friday, 29 October 2010
Premier League Fixtures 30th October 2010
Arsenal v West Ham United
Arsenal’s win over Manchester City last week moved them to second in the table, if only on goal difference. A home match against bottom club West Ham (who are yet to win away) should be the ideal way of keeping up the pressure on leaders Chelsea West Ham have done better of late but this is still their worst ever start to a season.
Aaron Ramsey is set to make his long-awaited comeback just a few days after this match but he’s unlikely to play in the first team for another month.
Danny Gabbidon will hope to return to West Ham’s starting line-up after being rested for their Carling Cup win over Stoke City. Jack Collison is still out with a knee injury.
Everton v Stoke City
Stoke have only one away win this season and Everton have only one home win. A win for Everton would lift them into the top ten, at least until Aston Villa’s match on Sunday. Stoke have not beaten Everton since Danny Collins was two.
Ryan Shawcross will keep his place in defence for Stoke and Danny Collins could be ready to return from a knee injury.
Fulham v Wigan Athletic
Fulham are looking for only their second win of the season against Wigan, who are now a point ahead of them and unbeaten away. Fulham and Mark Hughes haven’t been together for long but both have won only three of their last twenty Premier League games. Wigan are hoping to extend their unbeaten run to five matches.
Simon Davies will hope his long-term ankle injury will allow him to play a part in this match.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester City
Wolves will be ready to pounce if Manchester City have lost any confidence as a reault of being beaten 3-0 by Arsenal last weekend. One thing Manchester City definitely have lost star striker Carlos Tevez but they aren’t exactly short in the attacking department.
Wayne Hennessey acquitted himself well for Wolves in the Carling Cup but he ended up on the losing side – and even if they hadn’t, I wouldn’t expect him to start this match. David Jones however is likely to keep his place and Dave Edwards might return to the starting line-up alongside him.
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham travel to Old Trafford in the hope of ending Manchester United’s unbeaten record. The last time they won there, Gareth Bale was only five months old. Now he’s 21 and Man Utd are probably really hoping he doesn’t play. Their wish might just be granted, if Harrry Redknapp considers Inter Milan to be more important.
Ryan Giggs (hamstring), Owen Hargreaves (knee) and Michael Owen (depends on which paper you read but Alex Ferguson says it’s hia hamstring) are all expected to be absent for this match. Micharl is expected to be out for up to five weeks but Ryan should return to full training on Monday.
Tottenham’s top scorer Gareth Bale spent a few days recharging his batteries in Wales but with another match against Inter Milen just days away, he could be rested for this match.
Arsenal’s win over Manchester City last week moved them to second in the table, if only on goal difference. A home match against bottom club West Ham (who are yet to win away) should be the ideal way of keeping up the pressure on leaders Chelsea West Ham have done better of late but this is still their worst ever start to a season.
Aaron Ramsey is set to make his long-awaited comeback just a few days after this match but he’s unlikely to play in the first team for another month.
Danny Gabbidon will hope to return to West Ham’s starting line-up after being rested for their Carling Cup win over Stoke City. Jack Collison is still out with a knee injury.
Everton v Stoke City
Stoke have only one away win this season and Everton have only one home win. A win for Everton would lift them into the top ten, at least until Aston Villa’s match on Sunday. Stoke have not beaten Everton since Danny Collins was two.
Ryan Shawcross will keep his place in defence for Stoke and Danny Collins could be ready to return from a knee injury.
Fulham v Wigan Athletic
Fulham are looking for only their second win of the season against Wigan, who are now a point ahead of them and unbeaten away. Fulham and Mark Hughes haven’t been together for long but both have won only three of their last twenty Premier League games. Wigan are hoping to extend their unbeaten run to five matches.
Simon Davies will hope his long-term ankle injury will allow him to play a part in this match.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester City
Wolves will be ready to pounce if Manchester City have lost any confidence as a reault of being beaten 3-0 by Arsenal last weekend. One thing Manchester City definitely have lost star striker Carlos Tevez but they aren’t exactly short in the attacking department.
Wayne Hennessey acquitted himself well for Wolves in the Carling Cup but he ended up on the losing side – and even if they hadn’t, I wouldn’t expect him to start this match. David Jones however is likely to keep his place and Dave Edwards might return to the starting line-up alongside him.
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham travel to Old Trafford in the hope of ending Manchester United’s unbeaten record. The last time they won there, Gareth Bale was only five months old. Now he’s 21 and Man Utd are probably really hoping he doesn’t play. Their wish might just be granted, if Harrry Redknapp considers Inter Milan to be more important.
Ryan Giggs (hamstring), Owen Hargreaves (knee) and Michael Owen (depends on which paper you read but Alex Ferguson says it’s hia hamstring) are all expected to be absent for this match. Micharl is expected to be out for up to five weeks but Ryan should return to full training on Monday.
Tottenham’s top scorer Gareth Bale spent a few days recharging his batteries in Wales but with another match against Inter Milen just days away, he could be rested for this match.
Thursday, 28 October 2010
Welsh Player News 28th October 2010 (Part 1)
Aaron Ramsey is expected to play in a behind-closed-doors friendly in early November and could be a substitute for the first team by December but he’s unlikely to start until January. (link includes picture of Aaron’s injury)
James Collins believes Aston Villa are a match for any Premier League side. He’s also happy to see some of last year’s fringe players playing a part this season.
Blackpool are understandably keen to extend David Vaughan’s contract but Ian Holloway thinks the club could lose him next summer.
Simon Davies doesn’t want Mark Schwarzer to leave Fulham for Arsenal. But either way, they might not be playing in the same team many more times. Simon is expecting to become a bit-part player for Fulham over the next couple of seasons before retiring in 2013. But ideally, he’ll score in another Europa League final first.
Shocking news from Old Trafford. Ryan Giggs is mortal. Apparently.
Michael Owen could retire from football if Manchester United let him go at the end of the season. He’s not interested in playing for any other teams and he’s happy Wayne Rooney is staying, even though he’s just one striker blocking his route to the first team. Michael is certainly not expected to play for the next few weeks as he has a hamstring injury. Three goals in six appearances isn’t bad though. I bet lots of strikers would love to score three goals in six games.
Sir Alex Ferguson says he made a big mistake letting Ryan Shawcross leave Manchester United. He would have played if he’d stayed. Ryan just wants to play for England. Shame.
Gareth Bale is set to be the richest Welsh player in history. He could also be by far the most expensive. All the top clubs want to buy him and his hat-trick can only encourage the other clubs to lure him away from my least favourite half of North London. And writer Michael Colvin believes Gareth will go.
For the moment, Gareth is happy where he is and Harry Redknapp says he’s not after Ashley Young because he’s got Gareth so he obviously doesn’t want to sell him.. They’re not that stupid. The Guardian describes Gareth as a talent to give British football hope. Or Welsh football maybe.
Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan and AC Milan all want to sign Gareth.
Phil Neville enjoyed getting the better of a very tired Gareth when Tottenham played Everton last weekend. It’s the most impressive thing he’s done for a long time. No, I actually think Phil Neville is the best English right back at the moment. He wouldn’t get into the Wales team though.
Boaz Myhill hasn’t had a lot of first-team action since joining West Bromwich Albion from Hull City – but you won’t catch him moaning about it. (I wish he hadn’t mentioned beating Arsenal though. But who can blame him, it’s not something that happens to many clubs.)
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Matt Murray feels Mick McCarthy did a good thing in making Marcus Hahnemann first choice keeper instead of Wayne Hennessey. And he might have a point.
James Collins believes Aston Villa are a match for any Premier League side. He’s also happy to see some of last year’s fringe players playing a part this season.
Blackpool are understandably keen to extend David Vaughan’s contract but Ian Holloway thinks the club could lose him next summer.
Simon Davies doesn’t want Mark Schwarzer to leave Fulham for Arsenal. But either way, they might not be playing in the same team many more times. Simon is expecting to become a bit-part player for Fulham over the next couple of seasons before retiring in 2013. But ideally, he’ll score in another Europa League final first.
Shocking news from Old Trafford. Ryan Giggs is mortal. Apparently.
Michael Owen could retire from football if Manchester United let him go at the end of the season. He’s not interested in playing for any other teams and he’s happy Wayne Rooney is staying, even though he’s just one striker blocking his route to the first team. Michael is certainly not expected to play for the next few weeks as he has a hamstring injury. Three goals in six appearances isn’t bad though. I bet lots of strikers would love to score three goals in six games.
Sir Alex Ferguson says he made a big mistake letting Ryan Shawcross leave Manchester United. He would have played if he’d stayed. Ryan just wants to play for England. Shame.
Gareth Bale is set to be the richest Welsh player in history. He could also be by far the most expensive. All the top clubs want to buy him and his hat-trick can only encourage the other clubs to lure him away from my least favourite half of North London. And writer Michael Colvin believes Gareth will go.
For the moment, Gareth is happy where he is and Harry Redknapp says he’s not after Ashley Young because he’s got Gareth so he obviously doesn’t want to sell him.. They’re not that stupid. The Guardian describes Gareth as a talent to give British football hope. Or Welsh football maybe.
Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan and AC Milan all want to sign Gareth.
Phil Neville enjoyed getting the better of a very tired Gareth when Tottenham played Everton last weekend. It’s the most impressive thing he’s done for a long time. No, I actually think Phil Neville is the best English right back at the moment. He wouldn’t get into the Wales team though.
Boaz Myhill hasn’t had a lot of first-team action since joining West Bromwich Albion from Hull City – but you won’t catch him moaning about it. (I wish he hadn’t mentioned beating Arsenal though. But who can blame him, it’s not something that happens to many clubs.)
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Matt Murray feels Mick McCarthy did a good thing in making Marcus Hahnemann first choice keeper instead of Wayne Hennessey. And he might have a point.
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Champions' League Fixtures 20th October 2010
Inter Milan v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham visit the European Cup holders in the San Siro. Nice easy job then.
I’m not sure if the Tottenham fans want Gareth Bale to play well or badly. The bette he plays, the more likely Inter Milan are to bid for him.
Manchester United v Bursaspor
The Wayne Rooney issue is so well-publicised, I found out about it from my football-hating mum. Man Utd must push these concerns aside in order to claim the win everyone will except of them.
They’ll be without Ryan Giggs, who has aggravated his hamstring, and Owen Hargreaves, who can’t make his latest comeback from his knee problem because he’s hurt his calf. Michael Owen has an injury problem that seems to be different in every paper but whatever it is, he won’t play in this match.
Tottenham visit the European Cup holders in the San Siro. Nice easy job then.
I’m not sure if the Tottenham fans want Gareth Bale to play well or badly. The bette he plays, the more likely Inter Milan are to bid for him.
Manchester United v Bursaspor
The Wayne Rooney issue is so well-publicised, I found out about it from my football-hating mum. Man Utd must push these concerns aside in order to claim the win everyone will except of them.
They’ll be without Ryan Giggs, who has aggravated his hamstring, and Owen Hargreaves, who can’t make his latest comeback from his knee problem because he’s hurt his calf. Michael Owen has an injury problem that seems to be different in every paper but whatever it is, he won’t play in this match.
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
Welsh Player News 16th October 2010 (Premier League)
James Collins says his Aston Villa team-mate Ashley Young is not a cheat.
Should Fabio Capello have called up Michael Owen? I would have done. But not for the matches against Wales.
Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross has been linked with Liverpool but he’s not going to get carried away. These days, it’s hardly a compliment.
Tony Pulis is far from impressed with Danny Murphy, accusing him of trying to boost his media career. The fact Murphy left the field during Fulham’s match against Tottenham with a groin injury might suggest Tony is not alone in feeling this way.
Danny Gabbidon (West Ham United) and Anton Ferdinand (Sunderland) have invested in a male grooming spa.
Mick McCarthy says he doesn’t want Wayne Hennessey going anywhere on loan. He’s told Wayne he’s not far away from getting back into the team… but he would say that, wouldn’t he?
Should Fabio Capello have called up Michael Owen? I would have done. But not for the matches against Wales.
Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross has been linked with Liverpool but he’s not going to get carried away. These days, it’s hardly a compliment.
Tony Pulis is far from impressed with Danny Murphy, accusing him of trying to boost his media career. The fact Murphy left the field during Fulham’s match against Tottenham with a groin injury might suggest Tony is not alone in feeling this way.
Danny Gabbidon (West Ham United) and Anton Ferdinand (Sunderland) have invested in a male grooming spa.
Mick McCarthy says he doesn’t want Wayne Hennessey going anywhere on loan. He’s told Wayne he’s not far away from getting back into the team… but he would say that, wouldn’t he?
Premier League Results 16th October 2010 Part 2
Manchester United 2-2 West Bromwich Albion
I thought West Brom would go straight back down again this year but for now they’re looking like Champions’ League material. And why not? Bolton are an established Premier League side now, Birmingham look like they could be around for a while too so why not West Brom? It didn’t look likely when Man Utd went 2-0 up after 25 minutes but West Brom manager Roberto di Matteo had never lost at Old Trafford before this match and he wasn’t about to start now.
Ryan Giggs started for Man Utd for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury but he went of after 42 minutes when his hamstring started playing up again. He could be out for even longer this time. Michael Owen missed out with a calf injury. Or a groin injury.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 West Ham United
I find Mick McCarthy unlikeable and I really like Danny Murphy. But I have to say, McCarthy’s response to Murphy’s comments on Wolves’ playing style did make me smile. A lot. And I’d love to see McCarthy and Murphy on Match of the Day together. It could be interesting.
Dave Edwards and David Jones both started for Wolves and it was a move from David that led to Wolves’ goal. Both Davids came close to scoring. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Danny Gabbidon kept his place in West Ham’s starting line-up.
I thought West Brom would go straight back down again this year but for now they’re looking like Champions’ League material. And why not? Bolton are an established Premier League side now, Birmingham look like they could be around for a while too so why not West Brom? It didn’t look likely when Man Utd went 2-0 up after 25 minutes but West Brom manager Roberto di Matteo had never lost at Old Trafford before this match and he wasn’t about to start now.
Ryan Giggs started for Man Utd for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury but he went of after 42 minutes when his hamstring started playing up again. He could be out for even longer this time. Michael Owen missed out with a calf injury. Or a groin injury.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 West Ham United
I find Mick McCarthy unlikeable and I really like Danny Murphy. But I have to say, McCarthy’s response to Murphy’s comments on Wolves’ playing style did make me smile. A lot. And I’d love to see McCarthy and Murphy on Match of the Day together. It could be interesting.
Dave Edwards and David Jones both started for Wolves and it was a move from David that led to Wolves’ goal. Both Davids came close to scoring. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Danny Gabbidon kept his place in West Ham’s starting line-up.
Friday, 15 October 2010
Premier League Fixtures 16th October 2010 Part 1
Arsenal v Birmingham City
The last time Birmingham beat Arsenal away, Wales were yet to qualify for the World Cup. Imagine that. If that run is broken, it will be Arsenal’s third consecutive defeat. I’d rather not imagine that.
Aaron Ramsey is on target to return next month for Arsenal. He’s not training with his team-mates yet but it won’t be long now.
Aston Villa v Chelsea
Aston Villa are unbeaten at home this season. You don’t know how much I hope that continues.
James Collins has a black eye from playing for Wales but that won’t keep him out of the team.
Bolton Wanderers v Stoke City
Stoke haven’t won away at Bolton since Aaron Ramsey was a foetus. But Bolton haven’t won at home since last season.
Sam Ricketts will probably be on the bench unless Owen Coyle thinks one of the other defenders messed up last time.
Danny Collins returns from international duty perhaps with a bit of bruised pride but that won’t be enough to keep him out. He and Ryan Shawcross should be in defence for Stoke City.
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
Fulham remain unbeaten but Tottenham shouldn’t be too worried as most of Fulham’s games are draws, drawing games is a habit Mark Hughes picked up when he was at Manchester City.
Simon Davies could make his 300th career start against his former club Tottenham.
Gareth Bale will start for Tottenham as long as Harry Redknapp doesn’t want to give him a bit of a rest before their Champions’ League match. He could play at left back as Benoit Assou-Ekotto is a doubt. Gareth has created more chances than any other player in the league – 20.
Manchester United v West Bromwich Albion
Manchester United have thirteen points. West Brom have eleven. Yes, these teams seem to be pretty evenly matched. Even so, an Old Trafford league win for West Brom will be their first for 32 years.
Ryan Giggs could return from a hamstring injury although if he does, he’ll probably be sharing the bench with Michael Owen rather than starting. Owen Hargreaves’ surgeon has been going around telling people that Owen could be back in the squad this weekend but Sir Alex Ferguson says the surgeon doesn’t know what he’s talking about.
Boaz Myhill wasn’t in Wales’ squad against Switzerland due to a training injury so he could miss out for West Brom too although BBC Sport don’t seem to know about it.
The last time Birmingham beat Arsenal away, Wales were yet to qualify for the World Cup. Imagine that. If that run is broken, it will be Arsenal’s third consecutive defeat. I’d rather not imagine that.
Aaron Ramsey is on target to return next month for Arsenal. He’s not training with his team-mates yet but it won’t be long now.
Aston Villa v Chelsea
Aston Villa are unbeaten at home this season. You don’t know how much I hope that continues.
James Collins has a black eye from playing for Wales but that won’t keep him out of the team.
Bolton Wanderers v Stoke City
Stoke haven’t won away at Bolton since Aaron Ramsey was a foetus. But Bolton haven’t won at home since last season.
Sam Ricketts will probably be on the bench unless Owen Coyle thinks one of the other defenders messed up last time.
Danny Collins returns from international duty perhaps with a bit of bruised pride but that won’t be enough to keep him out. He and Ryan Shawcross should be in defence for Stoke City.
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
Fulham remain unbeaten but Tottenham shouldn’t be too worried as most of Fulham’s games are draws, drawing games is a habit Mark Hughes picked up when he was at Manchester City.
Simon Davies could make his 300th career start against his former club Tottenham.
Gareth Bale will start for Tottenham as long as Harry Redknapp doesn’t want to give him a bit of a rest before their Champions’ League match. He could play at left back as Benoit Assou-Ekotto is a doubt. Gareth has created more chances than any other player in the league – 20.
Manchester United v West Bromwich Albion
Manchester United have thirteen points. West Brom have eleven. Yes, these teams seem to be pretty evenly matched. Even so, an Old Trafford league win for West Brom will be their first for 32 years.
Ryan Giggs could return from a hamstring injury although if he does, he’ll probably be sharing the bench with Michael Owen rather than starting. Owen Hargreaves’ surgeon has been going around telling people that Owen could be back in the squad this weekend but Sir Alex Ferguson says the surgeon doesn’t know what he’s talking about.
Boaz Myhill wasn’t in Wales’ squad against Switzerland due to a training injury so he could miss out for West Brom too although BBC Sport don’t seem to know about it.
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