Goalkeepers: Jason Brown (Blackburn), Wayne Hennessey (Wolves), Lewis Price (Crystal Palace)
Defenders: Darcy Blake (Cardiff City), Danny Collins (Stoke), James Collins (Aston Villa), Neal Eardley (Blackpool), Chris Gunter (Nottingham Forest), Lewin Nyatanga (Bristol City), Sam Ricketts (Bolton), Ashley Williams (Swansea)
Midfielders: Andrew Crofts (Norwich), Andy Dorman (Crystal Palace), Andy King (Leicester), Joe Ledley (Celtic), David Vaughan (Blackpool)
Forwards: Simon Church (Reading), Robert Earnshaw (Nottingham Forest), Jermaine Easter (Crystal Palace), Freddy Eastwood (Coventry), Hal Robson-Kanu (Reading), Sam Vokes (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Withdrawals from original squad
Boaz Myhill (West Bromwich Albion), reason unknown
Danny Gabbidon (West Ham), hamstring
Craig Morgan (Preston North End), ankle
Dave Edwards (Wolverhampton Wanderers), ankle
Aaron Ramsey (Cardiff City, on loan from Arsenal), slight knock
Steve Morison (Millwall), muscle injury
Ched Evans (Sheffield United), virus
Lewis Price, Darcy Blake, Lewin Nyatanga, Andy Dorman, Jermaine Easter and Sam Vokes have been called up as replacements.
Joe Allen was also called up from the under-21 squad but he injured his calf in Swansea City's brilliant defeat to Cardiff City.
Players unavailable due to injury
Gareth Bale (Tottenham), back
Christian Ribeiro (Bristol City), hamstring
Neil Taylor (Swansea), ankle
Jack Collison (West Ham), knee
Craig Bellamy (Cardiff), ongoing knee problems
Other omissions
While it’s certainly possible that not all of these players would have been selected by Gary Speed had they been fit/available, they have all featured in recent squads.
David Cotterill (Swansea), limited game time
Brian Stock (Doncaster), very recent comeback from leg and/or back problems
Wales squads are always exciting if you’re me as they’re always full of Wales players. But three names made me feel particularly happy. The first is, of course, Aaron Ramsey, who features in a Wales squad for the first time since breaking his leg almost a year ago. (I know he's withdrawn now but it was great to see him there at all.) As an Arsenal and Wales fan, I have been forced to wait for Aaron's comeback but I am thrilled he’s back with my Welsh team again, hopefully helping them to get promoted and finish ahead of Swansea.
The second exciting name is (or was, until his injury) Danny Gabbidon, who has come out of retirement in order to be selected for this match. Gary Speed says he didn’t take much persuading. As his reason for retirement was his injury problems, I hope his latest problems won’t put him off being in Wales squads in the future. (Sadly, Simon Davies opted not to return although he says he was tempted. Perhaps he’ll be more tempted when Wales play England.)
The second name that particularly excited me was Freddy Eastwood. He has been doing very well for Coventry (when fit) over the past couple of seasons yet hasn’t featured in a Wales squad for two and a half years.
An interview with new Wales manager Gary Speed
Gary Speed has named Raymond Verheijen as his assistant manager. Verheijen’s work has already benefitted Wales: he has helped Craig Bellamy to manage his long-term knee injury.
Ryan Giggs is interested in helping Wales but not in a full-time role. Playing against the Republic of Ireland sounds like a part-time role to me. Kind of. Maybe.
Gary has told the Welsh players to earn their places in the squad.
It’s not clear who will be Wales’ captain against the Republic of Ireland but James Collins, Danny Gabbidon, Ashley Williams and Craig Bellamy are contenders to wear the armband against England. Danny and Craig obviously won’t play against the Republic of Ireland but James and Ashley are presumably contenders to be captain for this match too.
Andrew Crofts is delighted to be in the Wales squad. I'm glad someone is. Sometimes I wonder.
Robert Earnshaw says the match against the Republic Ireland will be more than just a warm-up for the match against England.
Gary believes Wales can qualify for the 2014 World Cup. That makes at least two of us.
Wales are 116th in the world rankings. But they can and will get higher and they’ll always be 1st for me.
Showing posts with label ryan giggs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ryan giggs. Show all posts
Sunday, 6 February 2011
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Welsh Player News 5th February Premier League (Part 1)
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)
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)
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.
Transfer News and Rumours 20th January 2010
Blackburn Rovers Jason Brown is hoping to leave Blackburn, either permanently or on loan, in order to get some first-team football and play for Wales again.
David Vaughan, along with some of his other Blackpool team-mates, has been told he won’t be leaving the club this transfer window. Certainly not to go to an inferior club like Liverpool.
Manchester United will offer Ryan Giggs a new one-year contract.
Derby County have told Robbie Savage that if he wants to join the Vancouver Whitecaps, he can go this winter.
Derby County have been bidding for Ben Davies again but Notts County just didn’t seem to want to let him go. Ben says he loves Notts County and doesn’t want to leave but he would love to play in the Championship – and, at 29, he might not get many more chances. Notts County manager Paul Ince said that if Derby want Ben, they’ll need to come up with a much bigger bid than they’ve done so far. Presumably, Derby managed this – although maybe it was Ben’s transfer request that forced the move. (You see why they call them 'transfer sagas'?)
Leeds United are interested in signing Sanchez Watt on a permanent basis from Arsenal.
Steve Morison, who has attracted the attention of clubs including Fulham, Norwich City and Nottingham Forest, is in talks with Millwall about a new contract.
Reading manager Brian McDermott doesn’t want to sell any player this January. So Wolverhampton Wanderers can keep their paws off Simon Church.
Swansea City defender Ashley Williams is still attracting the attention of Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United and Wigan Athletic but team-mate Nathan Dyer says it would be silly for Ashley to leave Swansea.
Jason Price thinks former loan club Bradford City need to sign some loud players.
Charlton Athletic don’t have any Welsh players but they could be interested in Plymouth Argyle’s Carl Fletcher.
Lee Beevers has been a regular at left back for Colchester United recently – but manager John Ward seems to be interested in replacing him.
Rochdale have signed Owain fon Williams from struggling League Two Stockport County following his excellent performances for League Two promotion contenders Bury. Championship side Derby County were also interested. Owain’s contract with Rochdale runs until the end of the season.
David Vaughan, along with some of his other Blackpool team-mates, has been told he won’t be leaving the club this transfer window. Certainly not to go to an inferior club like Liverpool.
Manchester United will offer Ryan Giggs a new one-year contract.
Derby County have told Robbie Savage that if he wants to join the Vancouver Whitecaps, he can go this winter.
Derby County have been bidding for Ben Davies again but Notts County just didn’t seem to want to let him go. Ben says he loves Notts County and doesn’t want to leave but he would love to play in the Championship – and, at 29, he might not get many more chances. Notts County manager Paul Ince said that if Derby want Ben, they’ll need to come up with a much bigger bid than they’ve done so far. Presumably, Derby managed this – although maybe it was Ben’s transfer request that forced the move. (You see why they call them 'transfer sagas'?)
Leeds United are interested in signing Sanchez Watt on a permanent basis from Arsenal.
Steve Morison, who has attracted the attention of clubs including Fulham, Norwich City and Nottingham Forest, is in talks with Millwall about a new contract.
Reading manager Brian McDermott doesn’t want to sell any player this January. So Wolverhampton Wanderers can keep their paws off Simon Church.
Swansea City defender Ashley Williams is still attracting the attention of Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United and Wigan Athletic but team-mate Nathan Dyer says it would be silly for Ashley to leave Swansea.
Jason Price thinks former loan club Bradford City need to sign some loud players.
Charlton Athletic don’t have any Welsh players but they could be interested in Plymouth Argyle’s Carl Fletcher.
Lee Beevers has been a regular at left back for Colchester United recently – but manager John Ward seems to be interested in replacing him.
Rochdale have signed Owain fon Williams from struggling League Two Stockport County following his excellent performances for League Two promotion contenders Bury. Championship side Derby County were also interested. Owain’s contract with Rochdale runs until the end of the season.
Saturday, 15 January 2011
Welsh Player Transfer News and Rumours 15th January 2011
Arsene Wenger says Aaron Ramsey won’t be joining Blackpool on loan. But that is what he said about Nottingham Forest.
Ryan Giggs has not been involved in contract talks with Manchester United. Ryan’s contract runs out at the end of this season.
It looks as though David Jones won’t be signing a new contract and will be free to move in the summer but Mick McCarthy hasn’t entirely given up hope.
Crystal Palace have signed Jermaine Easter from Milton Keynes Dons, just days after he returned from a loan spell at Swansea City. You’ll never guess who Palace’s next opponents are.
Steve Morison says he’s happy at Millwall but if he was offered the chance to go to a Premier League game, it would be hard to say no.
Mick McCarthy says that, contrary to reports, Wolves have no interest in signing Simon Church. Well, it’s your choice.
Joe Allen says he is flattered by reports linking him to other clubs but he doesn’t take them seriously and he has no desire to leave Swansea.
Kerry Morgan has returned to Newport County on loan. He first joined Newport last season and helped them into the Blue Square Premier before returning for the first half of this season. His third loan spell will keep him at Newport until the end of the season.
Rumours that Ashley Williams has signed for Chester are completely correct but it’s the Airbus UK one, not the Swansea City one.
Ryan Giggs has not been involved in contract talks with Manchester United. Ryan’s contract runs out at the end of this season.
It looks as though David Jones won’t be signing a new contract and will be free to move in the summer but Mick McCarthy hasn’t entirely given up hope.
Crystal Palace have signed Jermaine Easter from Milton Keynes Dons, just days after he returned from a loan spell at Swansea City. You’ll never guess who Palace’s next opponents are.
Steve Morison says he’s happy at Millwall but if he was offered the chance to go to a Premier League game, it would be hard to say no.
Mick McCarthy says that, contrary to reports, Wolves have no interest in signing Simon Church. Well, it’s your choice.
Joe Allen says he is flattered by reports linking him to other clubs but he doesn’t take them seriously and he has no desire to leave Swansea.
Kerry Morgan has returned to Newport County on loan. He first joined Newport last season and helped them into the Blue Square Premier before returning for the first half of this season. His third loan spell will keep him at Newport until the end of the season.
Rumours that Ashley Williams has signed for Chester are completely correct but it’s the Airbus UK one, not the Swansea City one.
Friday, 14 January 2011
Wales News 13th January 2011
Gary Speed talks about managing Wales and flashing Bobby Robson.
Gary will announce the squad for Wales’ match against the Republic of Ireland on 31st January.
Former Welsh international Carl Robinson has been helping the Wales under-16 team and having a laugh with the senior team manager.
Ryan Giggs says he won’t play for Wales again but he is interested in a coaching role.
Gary will announce the squad for Wales’ match against the Republic of Ireland on 31st January.
Former Welsh international Carl Robinson has been helping the Wales under-16 team and having a laugh with the senior team manager.
Ryan Giggs says he won’t play for Wales again but he is interested in a coaching role.
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
Wales News 12th january 2011
The Welsh FA still don’t want their players playing for Great Britain at the Olympics.
There’s been more speculation about the return of the Home International Championship. I think they should include the Republic of Ireland and then divide England into two teams, North England and South England, based on place of birth. That should even things up a bit.
Gary Speed likes the idea of reviving the Home International Championship but he says it couldn’t be a regular thing.
FA Wales have announced that Vauxhall will be their sponsors for the next three and a half years.
Tony Pulis would like to see Ryan Giggs playing for Wales again.
Gary Speed would like Danny Gabbidon and Simon Davies to come out of international retirement. He might even consider bringing Robbie Savage back. This is South Wales feels Wales should be grateful for what they can get.
Gary might also call up Wolverhampton Wanderers’ David Jones.
Ryan Shawcross is another possibility. The newspapers will have a field day if this happens… not that I’m hoping it won’t happen.
Wales Online suggest that Aaron Ramsey should be Wales’ new captain.
Neville Southall believes James Collins would be a better choice.
Andy King would like a bigger role with Wales.
There’s been more speculation about the return of the Home International Championship. I think they should include the Republic of Ireland and then divide England into two teams, North England and South England, based on place of birth. That should even things up a bit.
Gary Speed likes the idea of reviving the Home International Championship but he says it couldn’t be a regular thing.
FA Wales have announced that Vauxhall will be their sponsors for the next three and a half years.
Tony Pulis would like to see Ryan Giggs playing for Wales again.
Gary Speed would like Danny Gabbidon and Simon Davies to come out of international retirement. He might even consider bringing Robbie Savage back. This is South Wales feels Wales should be grateful for what they can get.
Gary might also call up Wolverhampton Wanderers’ David Jones.
Ryan Shawcross is another possibility. The newspapers will have a field day if this happens… not that I’m hoping it won’t happen.
Wales Online suggest that Aaron Ramsey should be Wales’ new captain.
Neville Southall believes James Collins would be a better choice.
Andy King would like a bigger role with Wales.
Saturday, 8 January 2011
FA Cup Fixtures 9th January 2011
Manchester United v Liverpool
The Premier League leaders take on Liverpool, four points outside the relegation zone, in the third round’s only all-Premier League tie. Kenny Dalglish is Liverpool’s manager following the departure of Roy Hodgson by ‘mutual consent’. Twelve months ago, Liverpool were knocked out by Reading while League One Leeds United beat Manchester United before nearly doing the same to Tottenham Hotspur.
Manchester United could rest players including Ryan Giggs but that could mean Michael Owen will get a chance. Owen Hargreaves is still out with a hamstring injury. Ryan is expecting a good performance from Liverpool but he says Manchester United will never end up like them.
Tottenham Hotspur v Charlton Athletic
Tottenham are expected to rest players against League One Charlton, who have never beaten Tottenham in the FA Cup. Tottenham’s eleven-match unbeaten run came to an end midweek when Gareth Bale got injured and had to be substituted. Charlton are without a win in five.
Gareth Bale has a slight back injury and probably deserved a rest anyway so he won’t play.
Chelsea v Ipswich Town
Managerless Ipswich have some easy matches over the next few days. Chelsea in the FA Cup, Arsenal in the Carling Cup. If they’re planning on doing any giant-killing, let’s hope it happens tomorrow. Ipswich have never beaten Chelsea in the FA Cup.
Troy Brown is likely to be in Ipswich’s squad.
Leicester City v Manchester City
There are giant-killings all over the place today. Manchester City will hope they’re not the next to suffer. Leicester, who have won all their (two) matches in 2011, are managed by former Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Andy King should start for Leicester.
The Premier League leaders take on Liverpool, four points outside the relegation zone, in the third round’s only all-Premier League tie. Kenny Dalglish is Liverpool’s manager following the departure of Roy Hodgson by ‘mutual consent’. Twelve months ago, Liverpool were knocked out by Reading while League One Leeds United beat Manchester United before nearly doing the same to Tottenham Hotspur.
Manchester United could rest players including Ryan Giggs but that could mean Michael Owen will get a chance. Owen Hargreaves is still out with a hamstring injury. Ryan is expecting a good performance from Liverpool but he says Manchester United will never end up like them.
Tottenham Hotspur v Charlton Athletic
Tottenham are expected to rest players against League One Charlton, who have never beaten Tottenham in the FA Cup. Tottenham’s eleven-match unbeaten run came to an end midweek when Gareth Bale got injured and had to be substituted. Charlton are without a win in five.
Gareth Bale has a slight back injury and probably deserved a rest anyway so he won’t play.
Chelsea v Ipswich Town
Managerless Ipswich have some easy matches over the next few days. Chelsea in the FA Cup, Arsenal in the Carling Cup. If they’re planning on doing any giant-killing, let’s hope it happens tomorrow. Ipswich have never beaten Chelsea in the FA Cup.
Troy Brown is likely to be in Ipswich’s squad.
Leicester City v Manchester City
There are giant-killings all over the place today. Manchester City will hope they’re not the next to suffer. Leicester, who have won all their (two) matches in 2011, are managed by former Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Andy King should start for Leicester.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Welsh Players Christmas-New Year matches 2010-11 (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.
Friday, 17 December 2010
Premier League Result 13th December 2010
Manchester United 1-0 Arsenal
A deeply disappointing result saw Manchester United replace Arsenal at the top of the table. But considering Arsenal’s lack of confidence, it was a relief in some ways only to lose by one goal. If Man Utd had been at their best, I’m sure it would have been worse.
Ryan Giggs came off Manchester United’s bench after 88 minutes.
A deeply disappointing result saw Manchester United replace Arsenal at the top of the table. But considering Arsenal’s lack of confidence, it was a relief in some ways only to lose by one goal. If Man Utd had been at their best, I’m sure it would have been worse.
Ryan Giggs came off Manchester United’s bench after 88 minutes.
Tuesday, 14 December 2010
Gary Speed appointed Wales' new manager
To begin with, Gary Speed wasn't even interested. He'd only recently been appointed manager of Sheffield United although he'd been with the club for a number of years, first as a player and then as a coach.
But when Ryan Giggs yet again turned down the chance to become Wales' manager, the Welsh FA turned to an inexperienced manager whose club are near the bottom of the Championship.
A number of people are believed to have applied for the job. Brian Flynn, the caretaker-manager of Wales for their two most recent matches, was the choice of the players and was interested in remaining in the job. Chris Coleman and John Hartson were also thought to have been very keen. Chris was the most experienced Welsh candidate while John had none at all. Lars Lagerback was also interviewed for the position whilst other managers linked with the job included Martin O'Neill.
But it seemed FA Wales were looking for a star rather than an experienced manager and, after holding interviews, they made the decision to approach Gary Speed - and he accepted their offer to become manager of Wales.
It's true he's a Welsh legend and he could inspire the players, as no doubt Ryan Giggs would have done - and although his managerial track record is not particularly good, he does have experience as a coach. The younger Welsh internationals (which to be fair is most of them) will remember him as a star. He's just not that experienced or that successful as a manager and that could turn out to be a disadvantage.
I really hope it works out for Gary and he has my full support. I hope the unsuccessful candidates won't be too disappointed. Brian Flynn certainly has reason to be, although he clearly loves working with and developing young players and there will be more opportunities for him to do this at under-21 level and lower. Chris Coleman has also been offered another job but he'd decided not to accept it until he knew whether or not he's got the Welsh job. It looks like he'll be managing Greek side Larissa then.
As for Wales, we have a Welsh manager who loves his country. That's not something every country can claim.
Gary Speed's career in pictures.
Gary says he has taken a pay cut in order to manage Wales. It's always good finding people like that in the world of football.
Gary says one of his first jobs will be to try to coax Welsh players out of international retirement. That might actually be a harder job than beating England but some of those players could well be his friends so maybe he can do it.
Gary says Wales have nothing to lose. Well, we can lose the rest of the games which would also mean finishing bottom of the group but I do see what he means.
Former Wales manager Mark Hughes, who was linked with a return to the role, believes Gary will do a great job.
But when Ryan Giggs yet again turned down the chance to become Wales' manager, the Welsh FA turned to an inexperienced manager whose club are near the bottom of the Championship.
A number of people are believed to have applied for the job. Brian Flynn, the caretaker-manager of Wales for their two most recent matches, was the choice of the players and was interested in remaining in the job. Chris Coleman and John Hartson were also thought to have been very keen. Chris was the most experienced Welsh candidate while John had none at all. Lars Lagerback was also interviewed for the position whilst other managers linked with the job included Martin O'Neill.
But it seemed FA Wales were looking for a star rather than an experienced manager and, after holding interviews, they made the decision to approach Gary Speed - and he accepted their offer to become manager of Wales.
It's true he's a Welsh legend and he could inspire the players, as no doubt Ryan Giggs would have done - and although his managerial track record is not particularly good, he does have experience as a coach. The younger Welsh internationals (which to be fair is most of them) will remember him as a star. He's just not that experienced or that successful as a manager and that could turn out to be a disadvantage.
I really hope it works out for Gary and he has my full support. I hope the unsuccessful candidates won't be too disappointed. Brian Flynn certainly has reason to be, although he clearly loves working with and developing young players and there will be more opportunities for him to do this at under-21 level and lower. Chris Coleman has also been offered another job but he'd decided not to accept it until he knew whether or not he's got the Welsh job. It looks like he'll be managing Greek side Larissa then.
As for Wales, we have a Welsh manager who loves his country. That's not something every country can claim.
Gary Speed's career in pictures.
Gary says he has taken a pay cut in order to manage Wales. It's always good finding people like that in the world of football.
Gary says one of his first jobs will be to try to coax Welsh players out of international retirement. That might actually be a harder job than beating England but some of those players could well be his friends so maybe he can do it.
Gary says Wales have nothing to lose. Well, we can lose the rest of the games which would also mean finishing bottom of the group but I do see what he means.
Former Wales manager Mark Hughes, who was linked with a return to the role, believes Gary will do a great job.
Sunday, 12 December 2010
Champions' League Results 7th December 2010
FC Twente 3-3 Tottenham Hotspur
Well, at least they didn’t win.
Gareth Bale was a star again. But no, the three goals weren’t his. Not this time.
Manchester United 1-1 Valencia
Much as I like seeing rival Premier League teams draw, it’s not nearly as sweet when they still win the group.
Ryan Giggs was an 81st-minute substitute
Well, at least they didn’t win.
Gareth Bale was a star again. But no, the three goals weren’t his. Not this time.
Manchester United 1-1 Valencia
Much as I like seeing rival Premier League teams draw, it’s not nearly as sweet when they still win the group.
Ryan Giggs was an 81st-minute substitute
Thursday, 2 December 2010
Premier League Results 27th November 2010 (Part 2)
Manchester United 7-1 Blackburn Rovers
Manchester United haven’t looked really convincing this season, despite the fact they have an excellent trio of forwards in Dimitar Berbatov, Javier Hernandez and Bebe, not forgetting Michael Owen if he ever gets fit.
Speaking of Bernatov, he became only the fourth striker ever to score five goals in the same Premier League match. It’s now happened in two consecutive years: Jermain Defoe did it last year. Maybe next year it could be Robin van Persie’s turn. Then he could get all his goals out of the way before he gets injured again.
But finally Manchester United showed that they are actually pretty good and if Arsenal can’t stop Chelsea themselves, maybe another team can.
Ryan Giggs was rested – and quite honestly not needed - in this match.
Stoke City 1-1 Manchester City
Stoke were unable to make it four wins in four games but a late equaliser meant they were able to make it four unbeaten. Manchester City have a better team on paper but it’s off the paper where it matters.
Ryan Shawcross and Danny Collins played in defence for Stoke.
West Ham United 3-1 Wigan Athletic
West Ham remained bottom despite picking up three much-needed points with a win over fellow-strugglers Wigan. It takes more than a win over Wigan to save your season but one more win could make a huge difference.
Danny Gabbidon conceded a rather harsh penalty but Wigan missed it so it didn’t matter. Except to Wigan.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-2 Sunderland
Wolves needed a win and they got one over their manager’s former side. Sylvan Ebanks-Blake has done little for Wolves since being the Championship’s top scorer in their promotion year but his winning goal suggests maybe they’re not completely doomed after all.
Wayne Hennessey replaced Marcus Hahnemann in goal and it seemed to work. Mick McCarthy says the No. 1 jersey (figuratively, Wayne wears No. 13) is his again. David Jones also started.
Manchester United haven’t looked really convincing this season, despite the fact they have an excellent trio of forwards in Dimitar Berbatov, Javier Hernandez and Bebe, not forgetting Michael Owen if he ever gets fit.
Speaking of Bernatov, he became only the fourth striker ever to score five goals in the same Premier League match. It’s now happened in two consecutive years: Jermain Defoe did it last year. Maybe next year it could be Robin van Persie’s turn. Then he could get all his goals out of the way before he gets injured again.
But finally Manchester United showed that they are actually pretty good and if Arsenal can’t stop Chelsea themselves, maybe another team can.
Ryan Giggs was rested – and quite honestly not needed - in this match.
Stoke City 1-1 Manchester City
Stoke were unable to make it four wins in four games but a late equaliser meant they were able to make it four unbeaten. Manchester City have a better team on paper but it’s off the paper where it matters.
Ryan Shawcross and Danny Collins played in defence for Stoke.
West Ham United 3-1 Wigan Athletic
West Ham remained bottom despite picking up three much-needed points with a win over fellow-strugglers Wigan. It takes more than a win over Wigan to save your season but one more win could make a huge difference.
Danny Gabbidon conceded a rather harsh penalty but Wigan missed it so it didn’t matter. Except to Wigan.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-2 Sunderland
Wolves needed a win and they got one over their manager’s former side. Sylvan Ebanks-Blake has done little for Wolves since being the Championship’s top scorer in their promotion year but his winning goal suggests maybe they’re not completely doomed after all.
Wayne Hennessey replaced Marcus Hahnemann in goal and it seemed to work. Mick McCarthy says the No. 1 jersey (figuratively, Wayne wears No. 13) is his again. David Jones also started.
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.
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
Premier League Results 20th November 2010
Arsenal 3-2 Tottenhm Hotspur
Tottenham beat Arsenal away for the first time in the league since Gareth Bale was at nursery school.
Arsenal were deservedly leading 2-0 and Gareth was doing really well but Harry Redknapp took exception to the way he shook hands with Bacary Sagna and poor Gareth ended up scoring after all
That would have been fine but his team-mates got it into their heads that it would be okay if they scored too. Gareth says the comeback was special but I don’t blame him, Theo Walcott told everyone he was an Arsenal supporter last week so Gareth had to do something. But I’d have preferred 4-3 to Arsenal, I really would.
The only consolation is that Chelsea lost to Birmingham so they’re not too far ahead. And Arsene Wenger’s antics with the water bottle made me smile so well done to him, not many people can make me smile when Arsenal are losing. Unfortunately his job is to make me smile in different ways.
Blackpool 2-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers
It was a great might in Blackpool, where you could have spent the afternoon watching the home team win again and the evening watchng the wonderful Ann Widdecombe dance. But it was Wolves who finished the night in the bottom two, five points adrift of safety and with their goal difference, they really need six points. Blackpool are halfway between the Champions’ League and the relegation places as they succeeded again in being just as entertaining as their manager.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan were both back in the starting line-up for Blackpool with Rob Edwards on the bench.
David Jones was back in Wolves’ starting line-up and could have scored from a free kick. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench. He was this week told he couldn’t go on loan in case something happened to Marcus Hahnemann. Well something happened to him today: goalkeeping errors.
Bolton Wanderers 5-1 Newcastle United
I’m not looking forward to Arsenal playing against Bolton. Newcastle scored a goal against Arsenal too but they didn’t let five in. Or even one. Bolton have most of the same players as last season but the difference is remarkable. But I hope Johan Elmander is appropriately grateful to Wales. If we hadn’t let you score, Johan, maybe you wouldn’t be banging them in now.
Sam Ricketts kept his place in Bolton’s starting line-up.
Liverpool 3-0 West Ham United
West Ham are looking in serious trouble. If Liverpool can score three goals against you, you’ve got problems. West Ham did at least seem to tighten up at the back after three first-half goals from Liverpool – they kept a clean sheet in the second half but you can’t win games without scoring. That only works if the game’s over two legs and you won the other one.
Danny Gabbidon conceded a penalty for handball but it really looks like an accident.
Manchester United 2-0 Wigan Athletic
Manchester United moved level on points with Chelsea after Wigan played fairly well but lost two players to red cards. Match of the Day claimed the reaction to Wayne Rooney was mixed. But it’s hard to tell if anyone likes you when you’ve just come on with Paul Scholes in a double substitution. He’s not back to his best and it was up to Man Utd’s new star striker and the left back who never scores to win the game for Man Utd.
Ryan Giggs was sufficiently recovered from a hamstring injury to sit on the bench for Manchester United. Ryan is expected to have his contract extended by another year in the near future.
West Bromwich Albion 0-3 Stoke City
After a bright start, West Brom are sliding back down towards the bottom of the table after losing 3-0 to a team who never win away. From being the team in the league with the worst run of form, Stoke must now be the best., just three points behind the Champions’ League places. It is the first time Stoke have won three consecutive games in the Premier League – the last time they did it in the top division was seventeen seasons ago.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross played well in defence for Stoke. Ryan’s manager Tony Pulis and team-mates Robert Huth and Matthew Etherington say Fabio Capello made a mistake in leaving Ryan out of the England squad.
Tottenham beat Arsenal away for the first time in the league since Gareth Bale was at nursery school.
Arsenal were deservedly leading 2-0 and Gareth was doing really well but Harry Redknapp took exception to the way he shook hands with Bacary Sagna and poor Gareth ended up scoring after all
That would have been fine but his team-mates got it into their heads that it would be okay if they scored too. Gareth says the comeback was special but I don’t blame him, Theo Walcott told everyone he was an Arsenal supporter last week so Gareth had to do something. But I’d have preferred 4-3 to Arsenal, I really would.
The only consolation is that Chelsea lost to Birmingham so they’re not too far ahead. And Arsene Wenger’s antics with the water bottle made me smile so well done to him, not many people can make me smile when Arsenal are losing. Unfortunately his job is to make me smile in different ways.
Blackpool 2-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers
It was a great might in Blackpool, where you could have spent the afternoon watching the home team win again and the evening watchng the wonderful Ann Widdecombe dance. But it was Wolves who finished the night in the bottom two, five points adrift of safety and with their goal difference, they really need six points. Blackpool are halfway between the Champions’ League and the relegation places as they succeeded again in being just as entertaining as their manager.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan were both back in the starting line-up for Blackpool with Rob Edwards on the bench.
David Jones was back in Wolves’ starting line-up and could have scored from a free kick. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench. He was this week told he couldn’t go on loan in case something happened to Marcus Hahnemann. Well something happened to him today: goalkeeping errors.
Bolton Wanderers 5-1 Newcastle United
I’m not looking forward to Arsenal playing against Bolton. Newcastle scored a goal against Arsenal too but they didn’t let five in. Or even one. Bolton have most of the same players as last season but the difference is remarkable. But I hope Johan Elmander is appropriately grateful to Wales. If we hadn’t let you score, Johan, maybe you wouldn’t be banging them in now.
Sam Ricketts kept his place in Bolton’s starting line-up.
Liverpool 3-0 West Ham United
West Ham are looking in serious trouble. If Liverpool can score three goals against you, you’ve got problems. West Ham did at least seem to tighten up at the back after three first-half goals from Liverpool – they kept a clean sheet in the second half but you can’t win games without scoring. That only works if the game’s over two legs and you won the other one.
Danny Gabbidon conceded a penalty for handball but it really looks like an accident.
Manchester United 2-0 Wigan Athletic
Manchester United moved level on points with Chelsea after Wigan played fairly well but lost two players to red cards. Match of the Day claimed the reaction to Wayne Rooney was mixed. But it’s hard to tell if anyone likes you when you’ve just come on with Paul Scholes in a double substitution. He’s not back to his best and it was up to Man Utd’s new star striker and the left back who never scores to win the game for Man Utd.
Ryan Giggs was sufficiently recovered from a hamstring injury to sit on the bench for Manchester United. Ryan is expected to have his contract extended by another year in the near future.
West Bromwich Albion 0-3 Stoke City
After a bright start, West Brom are sliding back down towards the bottom of the table after losing 3-0 to a team who never win away. From being the team in the league with the worst run of form, Stoke must now be the best., just three points behind the Champions’ League places. It is the first time Stoke have won three consecutive games in the Premier League – the last time they did it in the top division was seventeen seasons ago.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross played well in defence for Stoke. Ryan’s manager Tony Pulis and team-mates Robert Huth and Matthew Etherington say Fabio Capello made a mistake in leaving Ryan out of the England squad.
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
Wales manager news 16th November 2010
Brian Flynn is hoping he’ll be able to stay in the role after becoming caretaker managers for the qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland (which didn't go quite as I'd hoped).
Brian, John Hartson, Ian Rush, Chris Coleman, Dean Saunders, Brian Kerr, Lawrie Sanchez, Lars Lagerback and Terry Venables are said to be on a shortlist of candidates to become manager of Wales. I really hope it’s one of the ones in bold. If any of the others have Welsh blood, if they have or have had eligibility to play for Wales, I’d be very happy for them to become manager of Wales. But I really want a manager who is part of the national identity of Wales. Someone who supports Wales.
Read more about the candidates.
FA Wales wanted Ryan Giggs but he doesn’t want the job just yet. Martin O’Neill is said to be their second choice (even though he’s not on the shortlist) but James Collins would have something to say about that if the champagne bottle rumours are true.
Ian Rush would love the job but he won’t say whether he’s applied or not.
Brian, John Hartson, Ian Rush, Chris Coleman, Dean Saunders, Brian Kerr, Lawrie Sanchez, Lars Lagerback and Terry Venables are said to be on a shortlist of candidates to become manager of Wales. I really hope it’s one of the ones in bold. If any of the others have Welsh blood, if they have or have had eligibility to play for Wales, I’d be very happy for them to become manager of Wales. But I really want a manager who is part of the national identity of Wales. Someone who supports Wales.
Read more about the candidates.
FA Wales wanted Ryan Giggs but he doesn’t want the job just yet. Martin O’Neill is said to be their second choice (even though he’s not on the shortlist) but James Collins would have something to say about that if the champagne bottle rumours are true.
Ian Rush would love the job but he won’t say whether he’s applied or not.
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.
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