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 sam ricketts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sam ricketts. Show all posts
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Friday, 14 January 2011
Premier League Fixtures 15th January 2011 (Part 1)
Manchester City v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves haven’t won many games this season but they’re still in a position to claim a double over title-hopefuls Manchester City. Their last double over City was 40 years ago.
Wayne Hennessey should start for Wolves. Dave Edwards will probably miss out due to the tweaked hamstring that forced him off the field during the FA Cup match against Doncaster Rovers but he hasn’t completely ruled himself out – although the Wolves medical team might have a different opinion, If Dave is out, David Jones could take his place. It looks as though David 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.
Sam Vokes played in a behind-closed-doors friendly for Wolves this week but he isn’t ready to play for the first team yet. He says he’s happy to go out on loan but he’d rather stay and fight for his place.
Stoke City v Bolton Wanderers
Bolton have just one point from their last three matches but are still in seventh place, which will be a Europa League place if Arsenal can win the FA and Carling Cups like I want them to. Losing to Blackpool at home doesn’t necessarily make you a bad team but Stoke have also lost to Fulham at home recently and Fulham never win away. They’ll be hoping to make up for that against Bolton.
Danny Collins should return to Stoke’s starting line-up to play alongside Ryan Shawcross.
Sam Ricketts should start for Bolton.
Tony Pulis says he won’t be banning his players from using Twitter.
Wolves haven’t won many games this season but they’re still in a position to claim a double over title-hopefuls Manchester City. Their last double over City was 40 years ago.
Wayne Hennessey should start for Wolves. Dave Edwards will probably miss out due to the tweaked hamstring that forced him off the field during the FA Cup match against Doncaster Rovers but he hasn’t completely ruled himself out – although the Wolves medical team might have a different opinion, If Dave is out, David Jones could take his place. It looks as though David 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.
Sam Vokes played in a behind-closed-doors friendly for Wolves this week but he isn’t ready to play for the first team yet. He says he’s happy to go out on loan but he’d rather stay and fight for his place.
Stoke City v Bolton Wanderers
Bolton have just one point from their last three matches but are still in seventh place, which will be a Europa League place if Arsenal can win the FA and Carling Cups like I want them to. Losing to Blackpool at home doesn’t necessarily make you a bad team but Stoke have also lost to Fulham at home recently and Fulham never win away. They’ll be hoping to make up for that against Bolton.
Danny Collins should return to Stoke’s starting line-up to play alongside Ryan Shawcross.
Sam Ricketts should start for Bolton.
Tony Pulis says he won’t be banning his players from using Twitter.
Tuesday, 11 January 2011
FA Cup Results 8th January 2011 Third Round (Part One)
Arsenal 1-1 Leeds United
Arsenal will need a replay in order to beat Leeds – and from the way that both teams played, an Arsenal win is not a foregone conclusion. Arsene Wenger fielded a weakened, if not weak side and they were very nearly made to suffer as Manchester United were last season. Leeds took the lead through an early penalty before Arsenal equalised in stoppage team by the same method. Arsenal were rightly awarded a penalty earlier in the game, only for the referee to change his mind, but a penalty was later awarded following what Theo Walcott is very keen to tell us was a dive. The team who wins the replay will play Huddersfield Town at home.
Aaron Ramsey was on the bench for Arsenal and was seen warming up although he was an unused substitute. It’s not necessarily an insult to Arsenal’s performance to say that this was the best moment in the game.
Sanchez Watt, on loan from Arsenal, was given permission to play for loan club Leeds in this match. He says his loyalties were divided, as were those of his family but he’s happy with the result and he’s looking forward to playing Arsenal at Elland Road.
Bolton Wanderers 2-0 York City
York came so close to winning themselves a home replay but late appearances for Bolton strikers Kevin Davies and Johan Elmander, both of whom have been on good form, gave Bolton two goals in the last seven mnutes. York played well and they deserved something from the game. Hopefully it will give them some comfort to know they can match a side who are competing for a place in the Europa League. Bolton have another home tie in the fourth round and will face fellow Premier League side Wigan Athletic.
Sam Ricketts played the full match for Bolton.
Danny Parslow was in defence for York and nearly got an assist but it was only an assist for a Bolton goal so I bet he was glad that chance was missed. Levi Mackin was on the bench.
Bristol City 0-3 Sheffield Wednesday
At first glance, this result doesn’t seem like much of a surprise but it was actually the first (alphabetically) of many giant-killings. Bristol City gave Sheffield Wednesday some trouble in attack but in defence they struggled as much as the scoreline suggests. Sheffield Wednesday will host either Wycombe Wanderers or Hereford United in the next round.
Lewin Nyatanga was in defence for Bristol City. Christian Ribeiro was a 63rd-minute substitute but he left the field just ten minutes later with a hamstring injury. It looks as though he could be out for several weeks but Bristol City won’t know for sure until the swelling goes down.
Brett Pitman kept the Wednesday defence hard at work but there was no place in the squad for Gavin Williams. Gavin was on the losing side for loan club Yeovil Town against Sheffield Wednesday but Yeovil only lost by two goals, despite being the home side.
Burnley 4-2 Port Vale
Burnley might be struggling in the Championship but they were convincing winners over League Two promotion contenders Port Vale, who have just lost their manager to Sheffield United (and yes, it was Wales’ fault). However, while the better team certainly won, Port Vale worked very hard and gave Burnley more than a few anxious moments.
Lewis Haldane started for Port Vale for only the second time since recovering from blood poisoning Stoke & Staffordshire says it’s his third start of the season though so maybe I missed one) and got the assist for Port Vale’s first goal. Gareth Owen, new manager Jim Gannon’s chosen captain for the day, played 90 minutes.
Burton Albion 2-1 Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough’s only consolation is that Newcastle United, Sunderland and also Hartlepool United were also the victims of a Cupset but perhaps it is slightly more painful for a Middlesbrough side who have seen themselves fall from being a mid-table Premier League side to contenders for relegation to League One within a couple of years. Too good to go down? Well, they weren’t good enough to beat a mid-table League Two team yesterday.
Middlesbrough didn’t play badly. They dominated and created chances but chances are no good if you don’t take them. However, Burton were excellent. They worked hard, played well and they won the game. They will be away at Burnley in the next round.
Tony James was a half-time substitute for Burton – which means he won’t be available for Cup games if Hereford United buy him.
Danny Coyne got a rare start for Middlesbrough but was sadly unable to make the most of it. But that wasn’t entirely his fault. He didn’t have to make a save for the first 80 minutes.
Arsenal will need a replay in order to beat Leeds – and from the way that both teams played, an Arsenal win is not a foregone conclusion. Arsene Wenger fielded a weakened, if not weak side and they were very nearly made to suffer as Manchester United were last season. Leeds took the lead through an early penalty before Arsenal equalised in stoppage team by the same method. Arsenal were rightly awarded a penalty earlier in the game, only for the referee to change his mind, but a penalty was later awarded following what Theo Walcott is very keen to tell us was a dive. The team who wins the replay will play Huddersfield Town at home.
Aaron Ramsey was on the bench for Arsenal and was seen warming up although he was an unused substitute. It’s not necessarily an insult to Arsenal’s performance to say that this was the best moment in the game.
Sanchez Watt, on loan from Arsenal, was given permission to play for loan club Leeds in this match. He says his loyalties were divided, as were those of his family but he’s happy with the result and he’s looking forward to playing Arsenal at Elland Road.
Bolton Wanderers 2-0 York City
York came so close to winning themselves a home replay but late appearances for Bolton strikers Kevin Davies and Johan Elmander, both of whom have been on good form, gave Bolton two goals in the last seven mnutes. York played well and they deserved something from the game. Hopefully it will give them some comfort to know they can match a side who are competing for a place in the Europa League. Bolton have another home tie in the fourth round and will face fellow Premier League side Wigan Athletic.
Sam Ricketts played the full match for Bolton.
Danny Parslow was in defence for York and nearly got an assist but it was only an assist for a Bolton goal so I bet he was glad that chance was missed. Levi Mackin was on the bench.
Bristol City 0-3 Sheffield Wednesday
At first glance, this result doesn’t seem like much of a surprise but it was actually the first (alphabetically) of many giant-killings. Bristol City gave Sheffield Wednesday some trouble in attack but in defence they struggled as much as the scoreline suggests. Sheffield Wednesday will host either Wycombe Wanderers or Hereford United in the next round.
Lewin Nyatanga was in defence for Bristol City. Christian Ribeiro was a 63rd-minute substitute but he left the field just ten minutes later with a hamstring injury. It looks as though he could be out for several weeks but Bristol City won’t know for sure until the swelling goes down.
Brett Pitman kept the Wednesday defence hard at work but there was no place in the squad for Gavin Williams. Gavin was on the losing side for loan club Yeovil Town against Sheffield Wednesday but Yeovil only lost by two goals, despite being the home side.
Burnley 4-2 Port Vale
Burnley might be struggling in the Championship but they were convincing winners over League Two promotion contenders Port Vale, who have just lost their manager to Sheffield United (and yes, it was Wales’ fault). However, while the better team certainly won, Port Vale worked very hard and gave Burnley more than a few anxious moments.
Lewis Haldane started for Port Vale for only the second time since recovering from blood poisoning Stoke & Staffordshire says it’s his third start of the season though so maybe I missed one) and got the assist for Port Vale’s first goal. Gareth Owen, new manager Jim Gannon’s chosen captain for the day, played 90 minutes.
Burton Albion 2-1 Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough’s only consolation is that Newcastle United, Sunderland and also Hartlepool United were also the victims of a Cupset but perhaps it is slightly more painful for a Middlesbrough side who have seen themselves fall from being a mid-table Premier League side to contenders for relegation to League One within a couple of years. Too good to go down? Well, they weren’t good enough to beat a mid-table League Two team yesterday.
Middlesbrough didn’t play badly. They dominated and created chances but chances are no good if you don’t take them. However, Burton were excellent. They worked hard, played well and they won the game. They will be away at Burnley in the next round.
Tony James was a half-time substitute for Burton – which means he won’t be available for Cup games if Hereford United buy him.
Danny Coyne got a rare start for Middlesbrough but was sadly unable to make the most of it. But that wasn’t entirely his fault. He didn’t have to make a save for the first 80 minutes.
Saturday, 8 January 2011
Fa Cup Fixtures 8th January 2011 (Part 1)
Arsenal v Leeds United
Arsenal’s quest for silverware sees them take on the team who knocked Manchester United last year – and came close to doing the same to Tottenham Hotspur.
Aaron Ramsey could make his first appearance of the season as part of Arsenal’s squad.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/jan/07/aaron-ramsey-arsenal-return-leeds
Sanchez Watt has been given permission to play for Leeds against his parent club but he has a head injury.
Blackburn Rovers v Queen’s Park Rangers
QPR get to test out how close they are to being ready for the Premier League.
Jason Brown could be in Blackburn’s squad but I kind of doubt it really. They do have a lot of injury problems but not in goal.
Bolton Wanderers v York City
Bolton are looking like European contenders but York have achieved something just by being here.
Bolton are expected to field a weakened side so Sam Ricketts could be rested. The Press disagree with me though – they think Sam will get a ‘rare start’. Sam has been on the bench once in the last ten matches. Sam knows what it’s like to be a non-league player but he won’t be giving York too much sympathy.
Levi Mackin will both hope to feature for York despite missing training when his baby daughter was born. As York have a fully-fit squad, Danny Parslow is presumably also available but Alex Lawless has signed for Luton Town following a loan spell with the club.
Bristol City v Sheffield Wednesday
There’s definitely some giant-killing potential here although it won’t be giant-killing of the most romantic kind. Still, it’s hardly a fumble in the bushes either.
Several Bristol City players have fitness problems which should increase Lewin Nyatanga, Christian Ribeiro and Brett Pitman’s chances of playing. Gavin Williams has had surgery on a foot injury and is expected to be out for three weeks. Sam Vokes is back at Wolverhampton Wanderers following his not exactly successful loan spell.
Arsenal’s quest for silverware sees them take on the team who knocked Manchester United last year – and came close to doing the same to Tottenham Hotspur.
Aaron Ramsey could make his first appearance of the season as part of Arsenal’s squad.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/jan/07/aaron-ramsey-arsenal-return-leeds
Sanchez Watt has been given permission to play for Leeds against his parent club but he has a head injury.
Blackburn Rovers v Queen’s Park Rangers
QPR get to test out how close they are to being ready for the Premier League.
Jason Brown could be in Blackburn’s squad but I kind of doubt it really. They do have a lot of injury problems but not in goal.
Bolton Wanderers v York City
Bolton are looking like European contenders but York have achieved something just by being here.
Bolton are expected to field a weakened side so Sam Ricketts could be rested. The Press disagree with me though – they think Sam will get a ‘rare start’. Sam has been on the bench once in the last ten matches. Sam knows what it’s like to be a non-league player but he won’t be giving York too much sympathy.
Levi Mackin will both hope to feature for York despite missing training when his baby daughter was born. As York have a fully-fit squad, Danny Parslow is presumably also available but Alex Lawless has signed for Luton Town following a loan spell with the club.
Bristol City v Sheffield Wednesday
There’s definitely some giant-killing potential here although it won’t be giant-killing of the most romantic kind. Still, it’s hardly a fumble in the bushes either.
Several Bristol City players have fitness problems which should increase Lewin Nyatanga, Christian Ribeiro and Brett Pitman’s chances of playing. Gavin Williams has had surgery on a foot injury and is expected to be out for three weeks. Sam Vokes is back at Wolverhampton Wanderers following his not exactly successful loan spell.
Friday, 17 December 2010
Premier League Fixtures 18th December 2010
Arsenal v Stoke City
Ryan Shawcross faces Arsenal for the first time since breaking Aaron Ramsey’s leg. Some papers reported that Stoke will be providing Ryan with extra security. Arsene Wenger feels this isn’t necessary. Tony Pulis is inclined to agree but it’s probably the only thing he and Arsene do agree on.
Some people have criticised Arsene Wenger for saying it’s up to Aaron to forgive Ryan, not Arsene. I think it’s probably the best thing he could have said although it does put a bit of pressure on Aaron. If Arsene said he does forgive Ryan, he risks upsetting Aaron and the Arsenal fans. If he says he doesn’t, that will upset the Stoke fans – something he’s succeeding in doing on quite a few occasions in the last year. So he’s attempted to remove himself from the equation altogether and to me it seems like he is effectively saying he has nothing personal against Ryan.
Far more necessary from an Arsenal point of view is not losing another game at home. Only West Ham United have lost more home games than Arsenal although there are quite a few who have lost three.
Danny Collins should also start for Stoke.
Aaron Ramsey is, of course, on loan at Nottingham Forest.
Blackburn Rovers v West Ham United
Avram Grant has allegedly been given three matches to save his career – he needs to win at least one. He has denied this is the case but all the same, winning at least one of the next three sounds like a good idea to me. West Ham have won only two league games this season and they’ve both been at home (they haven’t won away for sixteen months) but a team who has lost their manager for no good reason will often be fair game.
Danny Gabbidon missed West Ham’s last game with an unspecified injury. There’s nothing to suggest he will miss that match too but there wasn’t anything last time either. Jack Collison is definitely still out but he is back in training following his long-term knee problems.
Liverpool v Fulham
Roy Hodgson takes his new club back to meet his former club - and neither club is where they want to be. Liverpool are nine points from a Champions’ League place while Fulham are outside the relegation places only on goal difference. But with Liverpool’s home form looking fairly healthy and Fulham not winning away for more than a year, I know what result I’m expecting.
Simon Davies should start for Fulham.
Sunderland v Bolton Wanderers
Sunderland are unbeaten at home and they’ll hope this run continues – but sixth-placed Bolton will provide a stern test although they’ve only won twice away this season. Even a point for Bolton will be an improvement on last year, when Sunderland beat them twice.
Sam Ricketts should keep his place in Bolton’s defence. Sam was one of a group of players who visited Bolton Hospice to meet the patients and give out presents.
Wigan Athletic v Aston Villa
A point could be enough to hoist Wigan out of the bottom three – and Villa’s only away league win was nearly three months ago.
James Collins should start for Villa. He’s pretty much the only defender who doesn’t seem to be either injured or dumped in the reserves.
Ryan Shawcross faces Arsenal for the first time since breaking Aaron Ramsey’s leg. Some papers reported that Stoke will be providing Ryan with extra security. Arsene Wenger feels this isn’t necessary. Tony Pulis is inclined to agree but it’s probably the only thing he and Arsene do agree on.
Some people have criticised Arsene Wenger for saying it’s up to Aaron to forgive Ryan, not Arsene. I think it’s probably the best thing he could have said although it does put a bit of pressure on Aaron. If Arsene said he does forgive Ryan, he risks upsetting Aaron and the Arsenal fans. If he says he doesn’t, that will upset the Stoke fans – something he’s succeeding in doing on quite a few occasions in the last year. So he’s attempted to remove himself from the equation altogether and to me it seems like he is effectively saying he has nothing personal against Ryan.
Far more necessary from an Arsenal point of view is not losing another game at home. Only West Ham United have lost more home games than Arsenal although there are quite a few who have lost three.
Danny Collins should also start for Stoke.
Aaron Ramsey is, of course, on loan at Nottingham Forest.
Blackburn Rovers v West Ham United
Avram Grant has allegedly been given three matches to save his career – he needs to win at least one. He has denied this is the case but all the same, winning at least one of the next three sounds like a good idea to me. West Ham have won only two league games this season and they’ve both been at home (they haven’t won away for sixteen months) but a team who has lost their manager for no good reason will often be fair game.
Danny Gabbidon missed West Ham’s last game with an unspecified injury. There’s nothing to suggest he will miss that match too but there wasn’t anything last time either. Jack Collison is definitely still out but he is back in training following his long-term knee problems.
Liverpool v Fulham
Roy Hodgson takes his new club back to meet his former club - and neither club is where they want to be. Liverpool are nine points from a Champions’ League place while Fulham are outside the relegation places only on goal difference. But with Liverpool’s home form looking fairly healthy and Fulham not winning away for more than a year, I know what result I’m expecting.
Simon Davies should start for Fulham.
Sunderland v Bolton Wanderers
Sunderland are unbeaten at home and they’ll hope this run continues – but sixth-placed Bolton will provide a stern test although they’ve only won twice away this season. Even a point for Bolton will be an improvement on last year, when Sunderland beat them twice.
Sam Ricketts should keep his place in Bolton’s defence. Sam was one of a group of players who visited Bolton Hospice to meet the patients and give out presents.
Wigan Athletic v Aston Villa
A point could be enough to hoist Wigan out of the bottom three – and Villa’s only away league win was nearly three months ago.
James Collins should start for Villa. He’s pretty much the only defender who doesn’t seem to be either injured or dumped in the reserves.
Premier League Results 12th December 2010
Bolton Wanderers 2-1 Blackburn Rovers
So Blackburn lost narrowly to Bolton. A team in the top six. Away. To a late goal. Is that a reason to sack your manager? Or are Blackburn just copying Newcastle? Okay so Bolton were down to ten men but everyone says it’s harder against ten men and certainly it isn’t necessarily easier.
Sam Ricketts provided the free kick that led to Bolton’s opening goal.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Chelsea
Typical. One of the few games I actually kind of vaguely want Tottenham to win and they can’t do it. But at least they made sure Chelsea stayed behind Arsenal which is exactly where I want them.
Gareth Bale was quiet but effective for Tottenham. He was limping as he left the stadium but there’s no news of an injury. Maybe he just stubbed his toe in the dressing room.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 Birmingham City
Wolves were so desperate, they had Academy players on the bench but clearly desperation suits them as they claimed their fourth win of the season.
Dave Edwards returned from a thigh injury and was on fine form for Wolves. Wayne Hennessey helped Wolves to their first clean sheet of the season. Not that he really had any saves to make.
So Blackburn lost narrowly to Bolton. A team in the top six. Away. To a late goal. Is that a reason to sack your manager? Or are Blackburn just copying Newcastle? Okay so Bolton were down to ten men but everyone says it’s harder against ten men and certainly it isn’t necessarily easier.
Sam Ricketts provided the free kick that led to Bolton’s opening goal.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Chelsea
Typical. One of the few games I actually kind of vaguely want Tottenham to win and they can’t do it. But at least they made sure Chelsea stayed behind Arsenal which is exactly where I want them.
Gareth Bale was quiet but effective for Tottenham. He was limping as he left the stadium but there’s no news of an injury. Maybe he just stubbed his toe in the dressing room.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 Birmingham City
Wolves were so desperate, they had Academy players on the bench but clearly desperation suits them as they claimed their fourth win of the season.
Dave Edwards returned from a thigh injury and was on fine form for Wolves. Wayne Hennessey helped Wolves to their first clean sheet of the season. Not that he really had any saves to make.
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.
Thursday, 2 December 2010
Premier League Results 27th November 2010 (Part 1)
Aston Villa 2-4 Arsenal
This match was a lot more excrutiating than the result suggests. Arsenal won by two clear goals but it could easily have been won by one goal – and not necessarily by Arsenal. But they did get to the top of the table briefly and I’m just happy they’re still in a position where they can get to the top of the table.
James Collins played the full match for Villa and aggravated his calf which must have been, well, aggravating.
Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Blackpool
It looked as though Blackpool were about to pull off another shock when they went 2-0 ahead at Bolton. But Bolton aren’t in a Europa League place for nothing and two late goals gave them a share of the points.
Sam Ricketts played the full match for Bolton.
Neal Eardley was in the right place to ensure Bolton didn’t get a winner. He and David Vaughan played the full match for Blackpool with Rob Edwards on the bench.
David is Ian Holloway’s dream man – if he is a man. Apparently he was manufactured which makes him sound more like a robot. Whatever he is, Holloway is going to offer him a new contract which he hopes will be enough to entice him to stay.
Everton 1-4 West Bromwich Albion
I thought Everton were getting over their usual early season slump but if you’re losing at home to West Brom (who aren’t on the best run themselves), you’ve really got a problem. Oh well, at least the Liverpool fans had something to be happy about for once.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Fulham 1-1 Birmingham City
Fulham used to be good at home but now it seems all they’re good at is drawing. In some ways, drawing a match is more of an achievement than winning it because if you win a match, you can score any number of goals and as long as it’s more than the opposition, you win. For a draw, you need to score exactly the same number of goals as the opposition. It’s probably not easy. But it still only gets you one point.
Simon Davies started for Fulham and took the corner that led to their equaliser.
This match was a lot more excrutiating than the result suggests. Arsenal won by two clear goals but it could easily have been won by one goal – and not necessarily by Arsenal. But they did get to the top of the table briefly and I’m just happy they’re still in a position where they can get to the top of the table.
James Collins played the full match for Villa and aggravated his calf which must have been, well, aggravating.
Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Blackpool
It looked as though Blackpool were about to pull off another shock when they went 2-0 ahead at Bolton. But Bolton aren’t in a Europa League place for nothing and two late goals gave them a share of the points.
Sam Ricketts played the full match for Bolton.
Neal Eardley was in the right place to ensure Bolton didn’t get a winner. He and David Vaughan played the full match for Blackpool with Rob Edwards on the bench.
David is Ian Holloway’s dream man – if he is a man. Apparently he was manufactured which makes him sound more like a robot. Whatever he is, Holloway is going to offer him a new contract which he hopes will be enough to entice him to stay.
Everton 1-4 West Bromwich Albion
I thought Everton were getting over their usual early season slump but if you’re losing at home to West Brom (who aren’t on the best run themselves), you’ve really got a problem. Oh well, at least the Liverpool fans had something to be happy about for once.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Fulham 1-1 Birmingham City
Fulham used to be good at home but now it seems all they’re good at is drawing. In some ways, drawing a match is more of an achievement than winning it because if you win a match, you can score any number of goals and as long as it’s more than the opposition, you win. For a draw, you need to score exactly the same number of goals as the opposition. It’s probably not easy. But it still only gets you one point.
Simon Davies started for Fulham and took the corner that led to their equaliser.
Saturday, 27 November 2010
Premier League Fixtures 27th November 2010 (Part 1)
Aston Villa v Arsenal
Arsenal will be desperate to bounce back from two humiliating wins in their last two matches. Birmingham City did them a huge favour last weekend by beating Chelsea and while Arsenal spurned the chance to overtake them, at least it means Chelsea aren’t too far ahead. He’s not Welsh but former Arsenal star Robert Pires could start for Villa – who are unbeaten at home this season.
James Collins will return from a calf injury to play in defence for Aston Villa
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has joined Nottingham Forest on loan until January, a move which has been welcomed by Wales caretaker manager Brian Flynn.
Bolton Wanderers v Blackpool
Blackpool’s impressive start to the season has got everyone’s attention but meanwhile Bolton have been sneaking quietly up the table and they are currently in fifth place.
Sam Ricketts will hope to keep his place in Bolton’s defence – and there’s no reason why he shouldn’t, given how well he’s done. But it’s not all the defence – Sam believes Johan Elmander is one of the most in-form players in the Premier League.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will probably start for Blackpool with Rob Edwards on the bench. Ian Holloway really wants David to remain at Blackpool but he doesn’t sound very hopeful.
Everton v West Bromwich Albion
West Brom’s six-match unbeaten run seems like a long time ago and they could be in the relegation zone on Saturday evening if results don’t go their way. But with Everton winning only three times this season (although they have only lost four in their last 25), maybe this is the time for West Brom to halt their slide down the table… and win their second away league match this season.
Boaz Myhill probably won’t start for West Brom.
Fulham v Birmingham City
Fulham are in trouble after losing to Manchester City in their last match. Now they must try to beat the team who’s just beaten the League Champions. Birmingham are however much weaker away from home – they’re yet to win away this season. The last time Birmingham beat Fulham at home, Robbie Savage scored. Even more incredibly, so did Emile Heskey.
Fulham are short of strikers as usual but they’ve been short of strikers for the last two years and that didn’t stop them from getting their highest finish ever and going all the way to the Europa League final. They do have a number of midfielders capable of scoring, including Simon Davies. Although if Roy Hodgson has his way, Simon might not be a Fulham player for very much longer.
Arsenal will be desperate to bounce back from two humiliating wins in their last two matches. Birmingham City did them a huge favour last weekend by beating Chelsea and while Arsenal spurned the chance to overtake them, at least it means Chelsea aren’t too far ahead. He’s not Welsh but former Arsenal star Robert Pires could start for Villa – who are unbeaten at home this season.
James Collins will return from a calf injury to play in defence for Aston Villa
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has joined Nottingham Forest on loan until January, a move which has been welcomed by Wales caretaker manager Brian Flynn.
Bolton Wanderers v Blackpool
Blackpool’s impressive start to the season has got everyone’s attention but meanwhile Bolton have been sneaking quietly up the table and they are currently in fifth place.
Sam Ricketts will hope to keep his place in Bolton’s defence – and there’s no reason why he shouldn’t, given how well he’s done. But it’s not all the defence – Sam believes Johan Elmander is one of the most in-form players in the Premier League.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will probably start for Blackpool with Rob Edwards on the bench. Ian Holloway really wants David to remain at Blackpool but he doesn’t sound very hopeful.
Everton v West Bromwich Albion
West Brom’s six-match unbeaten run seems like a long time ago and they could be in the relegation zone on Saturday evening if results don’t go their way. But with Everton winning only three times this season (although they have only lost four in their last 25), maybe this is the time for West Brom to halt their slide down the table… and win their second away league match this season.
Boaz Myhill probably won’t start for West Brom.
Fulham v Birmingham City
Fulham are in trouble after losing to Manchester City in their last match. Now they must try to beat the team who’s just beaten the League Champions. Birmingham are however much weaker away from home – they’re yet to win away this season. The last time Birmingham beat Fulham at home, Robbie Savage scored. Even more incredibly, so did Emile Heskey.
Fulham are short of strikers as usual but they’ve been short of strikers for the last two years and that didn’t stop them from getting their highest finish ever and going all the way to the Europa League final. They do have a number of midfielders capable of scoring, including Simon Davies. Although if Roy Hodgson has his way, Simon might not be a Fulham player for very much longer.
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
Premier League Results 13th November 2010 (Part 2)
West Ham United 0-0 Blackpool
I didn’t look at many prediction sites but they all predicted an away win and that just shows you how impressive Blackpool have been. Before the start of the season, would you have predicted an away win? But with West Ham struggling and Blackpool not caring whether they’re playing Manchester United or FC United of Manchester (though on current form, the latter look more of a threat), an away win looked very possible and the only mystery is how it didn’t happen – although if West Ham had been awarded a penalty in the first half, things could have been very different.
Danny Gabbidon played in defence for West Ham and nearly scored.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan, who scored against Aston Villa, came pretty close to repeating the feat against West Ham. Rob Edwards was on the bench for once.
Ian Holloway will offer David a new contract in the next fortnight – but if he won’t sign it, he’ll be moving clubs in January. David – just sign it.
Wigan Athletic 1-0 West Bromwich Albion
Wigan are a point above the relegation zone after getting three against West Brom. After flirting with the Champions’ League places, the Baggies seem to be heading for the place where everyone expected to see them. This match saw Wigan substitute an injured player for his brother – I wonder how many times that has happened.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom. But maybe not for much longer if they keep going like this.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-3 Bolton Wanderers
Wolves played well again but were left with nothing – a situation with which, as an Arsenal supporter, I can sympathise - as Bolton claimed three points with three goals. Bolton were 3-0 up but only for two minutes, with Wolves taking the opportunity to give Bolton a scare.
David Jones came back into Wolves’ squad, joining Wayne Hennessey on the bench. Dave Edwards was out with a thigh injury.
Sam Ricketts was in Bolton’s starting line-up and it was his sliding challenge that prevented Wolves from equalising shortly after Bolton’s first goal.
I didn’t look at many prediction sites but they all predicted an away win and that just shows you how impressive Blackpool have been. Before the start of the season, would you have predicted an away win? But with West Ham struggling and Blackpool not caring whether they’re playing Manchester United or FC United of Manchester (though on current form, the latter look more of a threat), an away win looked very possible and the only mystery is how it didn’t happen – although if West Ham had been awarded a penalty in the first half, things could have been very different.
Danny Gabbidon played in defence for West Ham and nearly scored.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan, who scored against Aston Villa, came pretty close to repeating the feat against West Ham. Rob Edwards was on the bench for once.
Ian Holloway will offer David a new contract in the next fortnight – but if he won’t sign it, he’ll be moving clubs in January. David – just sign it.
Wigan Athletic 1-0 West Bromwich Albion
Wigan are a point above the relegation zone after getting three against West Brom. After flirting with the Champions’ League places, the Baggies seem to be heading for the place where everyone expected to see them. This match saw Wigan substitute an injured player for his brother – I wonder how many times that has happened.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom. But maybe not for much longer if they keep going like this.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-3 Bolton Wanderers
Wolves played well again but were left with nothing – a situation with which, as an Arsenal supporter, I can sympathise - as Bolton claimed three points with three goals. Bolton were 3-0 up but only for two minutes, with Wolves taking the opportunity to give Bolton a scare.
David Jones came back into Wolves’ squad, joining Wayne Hennessey on the bench. Dave Edwards was out with a thigh injury.
Sam Ricketts was in Bolton’s starting line-up and it was his sliding challenge that prevented Wolves from equalising shortly after Bolton’s first goal.
Friday, 12 November 2010
Premier League Fixtures 13th November 2010 (Part 2)
West Ham United v Blackpool
West Ham are gradually improving. They aren’t off the bottom of the table (although they could be if they draw this match) and they have only won one match but their performances have improved. Now they face Blackpool, who gave Aston Villa a big scare even with their second-string side. But if you play your second team against Villa, wouldn’t you play your youth team against West Ham? Don’t do it, Ian Holloway.
Danny Gabbidon should start for West Ham again. Jack Collison is out with a long-term knee injury.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will hope to be back in Blackpool’s starting line-up after being rested (so what was all that about?) against Aston Villa. Rob Edwards could drop to the bench or out of the squad. David is hoping he’ll be offered a new contract by Blackpool soon.
Wigan Athletic v West Bromwich Albion
The Premier League’s youngest managers, two of three Premier League managers with the first name Roberto, face off in a match many predicted would be a relegation decider. I still think both teams will be in the relegation battle but there could be six or seven teams in it and only three will go down.
Boaz Myhill will probably be on the bench for West Brom.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Bolton Wanderers
Both Wolves’ wins have come at home this season so the good news for them is that they’re at home again. Bolton have only won once away this season – but they’ve also only lost one. This could be seen as good news or bad news, it depends what kind of mood you’re in really.
Dave Edwards injured a thigh muscle against Arsenal and is a doubt. Wayne Hennessey should be on the bench but I think Mick McCarthy has forgotten about David Jones. First-choice goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann is considering returning to the USA at the end of the season so hopefully Wayne will get his chance then, if he doesn’t outst Hahnemann before then.
Sam Ricketts has a very good chance of starting for Bolton as the regular right back is injured and suspended.
West Ham are gradually improving. They aren’t off the bottom of the table (although they could be if they draw this match) and they have only won one match but their performances have improved. Now they face Blackpool, who gave Aston Villa a big scare even with their second-string side. But if you play your second team against Villa, wouldn’t you play your youth team against West Ham? Don’t do it, Ian Holloway.
Danny Gabbidon should start for West Ham again. Jack Collison is out with a long-term knee injury.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will hope to be back in Blackpool’s starting line-up after being rested (so what was all that about?) against Aston Villa. Rob Edwards could drop to the bench or out of the squad. David is hoping he’ll be offered a new contract by Blackpool soon.
Wigan Athletic v West Bromwich Albion
The Premier League’s youngest managers, two of three Premier League managers with the first name Roberto, face off in a match many predicted would be a relegation decider. I still think both teams will be in the relegation battle but there could be six or seven teams in it and only three will go down.
Boaz Myhill will probably be on the bench for West Brom.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Bolton Wanderers
Both Wolves’ wins have come at home this season so the good news for them is that they’re at home again. Bolton have only won once away this season – but they’ve also only lost one. This could be seen as good news or bad news, it depends what kind of mood you’re in really.
Dave Edwards injured a thigh muscle against Arsenal and is a doubt. Wayne Hennessey should be on the bench but I think Mick McCarthy has forgotten about David Jones. First-choice goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann is considering returning to the USA at the end of the season so hopefully Wayne will get his chance then, if he doesn’t outst Hahnemann before then.
Sam Ricketts has a very good chance of starting for Bolton as the regular right back is injured and suspended.
Monday, 8 November 2010
Premier League Results 6th November 2010
Birmingham City 2-2 West Ham United
The game started brilliantly when the sprinkler system came on, leaving the players drenched and the referee at a loss, but it wasn’t until after the interval that the game came alive in other ways. Birmingham came back from 2-0 down to deny West Ham a much-needed win.
Danny Gabbidon was in defence for West Ham and prevented at least one goal.
Blackpool 2-2 Everton
Blackpool just refuse to lie down and get relegated – and I woudn’t want it any other way. The Tangerines got an excellent draw against an in-form Everton side. Not that you could really say Blackpool are off-form – they’re closer to the Champions’ League places than the relegation ones.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan started for Blackpool and scored the two goals, both of which put Blackpool into the lead. It was a very happy birthday for Neal, who scored from a stunning free kick.
Bolton Wanderers 4-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Not so long ago, Bolton at home were easier than Bolton away. Now they’re harder to beat than Inter Milan – for the simple reason that they’ve worked out that two men are harder to beat than one.
Bolton doubled up on Gareth Bale, as many predicted Inter would do, which made it very difficult for Tottenham to make any attacks. Though it was one of his markers who scored the goal to put Bolton 2-0 ahead. Some newspapers immediately started criticising Gareth for having a poor game and wondering what that meant for his Tottenham future but Harry Redknapp says Gareth was his best player, he’s just a young boy who isn’t going to be at his best every week and he’s not going to get his head turned by all this transfer talk. I don’t like having one of my favourite players at Tottenham but I do hope he’s right. If a Welsh player is doing well, it’s best they stay where they are.
Sam Ricketts was an unused substitute for Bolton.
While Gareth is starring on the football field, his classmate Sam Warburton is playing a sport far more familiar to the Welsh.
Dean Saunders becomes the 1000000000th person to compare Gareth to Ryan Giggs.
The game started brilliantly when the sprinkler system came on, leaving the players drenched and the referee at a loss, but it wasn’t until after the interval that the game came alive in other ways. Birmingham came back from 2-0 down to deny West Ham a much-needed win.
Danny Gabbidon was in defence for West Ham and prevented at least one goal.
Blackpool 2-2 Everton
Blackpool just refuse to lie down and get relegated – and I woudn’t want it any other way. The Tangerines got an excellent draw against an in-form Everton side. Not that you could really say Blackpool are off-form – they’re closer to the Champions’ League places than the relegation ones.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan started for Blackpool and scored the two goals, both of which put Blackpool into the lead. It was a very happy birthday for Neal, who scored from a stunning free kick.
Bolton Wanderers 4-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Not so long ago, Bolton at home were easier than Bolton away. Now they’re harder to beat than Inter Milan – for the simple reason that they’ve worked out that two men are harder to beat than one.
Bolton doubled up on Gareth Bale, as many predicted Inter would do, which made it very difficult for Tottenham to make any attacks. Though it was one of his markers who scored the goal to put Bolton 2-0 ahead. Some newspapers immediately started criticising Gareth for having a poor game and wondering what that meant for his Tottenham future but Harry Redknapp says Gareth was his best player, he’s just a young boy who isn’t going to be at his best every week and he’s not going to get his head turned by all this transfer talk. I don’t like having one of my favourite players at Tottenham but I do hope he’s right. If a Welsh player is doing well, it’s best they stay where they are.
Sam Ricketts was an unused substitute for Bolton.
While Gareth is starring on the football field, his classmate Sam Warburton is playing a sport far more familiar to the Welsh.
Dean Saunders becomes the 1000000000th person to compare Gareth to Ryan Giggs.
Saturday, 6 November 2010
Premier League Fixtures 6th November 2010 (Part 1)
Birmingham City v West Ham United
Danny Gabbidon is likely to return to the left back after spending the last match at centre back for West Ham.
Blackpool v Everton
David Vaughan should keep his place in Blackpool’s starting line-up and I wouldn’t be surprised if Neal Eardley did too. Rob Edwards could also get a game if Craig Cathcart fails to recover from a back injury.
Bolton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur
Sam Ricketts will probably be on the bench for Bolton.
Tottenham aren’t going to leave Gareth Bale out. Not even Tottenham are that stupid.
Fulham v Aston Villa
Aston Villa have only one fit striker, a situation with which Fulham will sympathise. But they won’t sympathise too much.
Simon Davies should play in midfield for Fulham. He’ll be hoping to get past Aston Villa defender James Collins.
Danny Gabbidon is likely to return to the left back after spending the last match at centre back for West Ham.
Blackpool v Everton
David Vaughan should keep his place in Blackpool’s starting line-up and I wouldn’t be surprised if Neal Eardley did too. Rob Edwards could also get a game if Craig Cathcart fails to recover from a back injury.
Bolton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur
Sam Ricketts will probably be on the bench for Bolton.
Tottenham aren’t going to leave Gareth Bale out. Not even Tottenham are that stupid.
Fulham v Aston Villa
Aston Villa have only one fit striker, a situation with which Fulham will sympathise. But they won’t sympathise too much.
Simon Davies should play in midfield for Fulham. He’ll be hoping to get past Aston Villa defender James Collins.
Thursday, 4 November 2010
Premier League Results 31st October 2010
Aston Villa 0-0 Birmingham City
This Midlands derby ended in a stalemate which Aston Villa probably should have won. Not that either of them particularly deserved it. It could be me but it seemed like he most exciting thing that happened was Nigel Reo-Coker getting into a fight with his former Villa team-mate Craig Gardner. With both players earning yellow cards (for separate arguments), I can only assume that ended in a draw too.
The good thing about goalless draws over any other kind of draw is that it means James Collins keeps a clean sheet for Aston Villa.
Bolton Wanderers 0-1 Liverpool
Liverpool moved out of the bottom three but luckily this doesn’t deprive me the satisfaction of using the words ‘Liverpool’ and ‘the bottom three’ in the same sentence. They were actually pretty lucky to get out of the bottom three at all and must be counting themselves very lucky that Arsenal’s alleged bid for Pepe Reina was rejected. Bolton were the better side and deserved the win with some exciting attacking football but no-one actually found the back of the net. It was Liverpool’s first away win since April and Roy Hodgson’s first away win since August 2009.
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
This Midlands derby ended in a stalemate which Aston Villa probably should have won. Not that either of them particularly deserved it. It could be me but it seemed like he most exciting thing that happened was Nigel Reo-Coker getting into a fight with his former Villa team-mate Craig Gardner. With both players earning yellow cards (for separate arguments), I can only assume that ended in a draw too.
The good thing about goalless draws over any other kind of draw is that it means James Collins keeps a clean sheet for Aston Villa.
Bolton Wanderers 0-1 Liverpool
Liverpool moved out of the bottom three but luckily this doesn’t deprive me the satisfaction of using the words ‘Liverpool’ and ‘the bottom three’ in the same sentence. They were actually pretty lucky to get out of the bottom three at all and must be counting themselves very lucky that Arsenal’s alleged bid for Pepe Reina was rejected. Bolton were the better side and deserved the win with some exciting attacking football but no-one actually found the back of the net. It was Liverpool’s first away win since April and Roy Hodgson’s first away win since August 2009.
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Thursday, 28 October 2010
Premier League Results 23rd October 2010
Birmingham City 2-0 Blackpool
Neal Eardley played the full match as Blackpool lost 2-0 away at Birmingham. He also got a yellow card.
David Vaughan played the full match.
Chelsea 2-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves failed to get back to winning ways against Chelsea but what were the chances of that?
David Jones and Dave Edwards played the complete match for Wolves. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Sunderland 1-0 Aston Villa
James Collins played the full match for Aston Villa.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Everton
Gareth Bale was understandably tired after his exertions in Milan but I understand he still collected the Man of the Match champagne. Any more of those and he’ll have to take up drinking.
West Bromwich Albion 2-1 Fulham
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Simon Davies didn’t feature for Fulham in this match.
West Ham United 1-2 Newcastle United
Danny Gabbidon played the full match for West Ham.
Wigan Athletic 1-1 Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Neal Eardley played the full match as Blackpool lost 2-0 away at Birmingham. He also got a yellow card.
David Vaughan played the full match.
Chelsea 2-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves failed to get back to winning ways against Chelsea but what were the chances of that?
David Jones and Dave Edwards played the complete match for Wolves. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Sunderland 1-0 Aston Villa
James Collins played the full match for Aston Villa.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Everton
Gareth Bale was understandably tired after his exertions in Milan but I understand he still collected the Man of the Match champagne. Any more of those and he’ll have to take up drinking.
West Bromwich Albion 2-1 Fulham
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Simon Davies didn’t feature for Fulham in this match.
West Ham United 1-2 Newcastle United
Danny Gabbidon played the full match for West Ham.
Wigan Athletic 1-1 Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
Premier League Results 16th October 2010 Part 1
Arsenal 2-1 Birmingham City
It wasn’t Arsenal’s best or most beautiful performance but they got the three points against a team whom they’ve often struggled to deal with. True, Arsenal’s penalty was debatable, not a dive as such, it seemed like a genuine but premeditated trip, if that makes sense. And there was a bit of simulation with the rolling over and over and over but other than that, Marouane Chamakh is a great buy and I wish he was Welsh.
Aaron Ramsey didn’t play for Arsenal – but it won’t be long now.
Aston Villa 0-0 Chelsea
Chelsea have only won once at Villa Park in the last twelve years – and considering the last twelve years include three title wins for Chelsea, and no seasons where Aston Villa finished above Chelsea (the last instance of this was in the 1996-97 season), maybe some Chelsea fans will consider this a pretty good point.
James Collins was Man of the Match, at least according to Sky Sports (and you won’t find me disagreeing). James was strong in defence and was just one Villa player who came very close to winning the match.
Bolton Wanderers 2-1 Stoke City
As stoppage time began, the score was 1-1 and that would have been a fair result. Bolton’s supersub Ivan Klasnic popped up in the 92nd minute to take all three points. But that wasn’t the end, at least not quite yet. There was still time for Klasnic to receive not one but two yellow cards before the match ended.
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Danny Collins came close to a debut goal for Stoke. He and captain Ryan Shawcross didn’t deserve to be on the losing side.
Fulham 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur
There was more than a hint of offside about one of Tottenham’s goals and even the referee saw it. But after consultation with his linesman, who agreed with him, the referee changed his mind.
The rules are inconclusive but William Gallas did attempt to play the ball. He didn’t touch it but it looks as though he meant to and you could say he was attempting to interfere in active play. If you attempt to hit another player and fail, you receive the same punishment as you do when you actually make the connection. Gallas was attempting to commit an offence.
However, the definition of ‘interfering with play’ means playing or touching the ball. It doesn’t say anything about unsuccessful attempts to play the ball.
Alternatively, Gallas’ move towards the ball could be seen as interfering with an opponent (Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer). Interfering with an opponent includes making a movement that deceives or distracts the opponent – and Gallas’ movement almost certainly did deceive Schwarzer in the sense of making him think he was going to play the ball (Schwarzer can’t rely on the officials’ seeing the offence and disallowing the goal) and it did distract him from Tom Huddlestone’s shot in the sense that he kept an eye on the offside player instead of moving towards the path of the ball.
Gallas was probably seeking to gain an advantage because he is well-positioned if a shot rebounds off the bar or posts or is parried by Schwarzer – although this only becomes an offence if there is a rebound and he does touch the ball and it’s possible Gallas moved towards the ball, realised he was offside and decided not to touch it.
As for active and inactive play, Gallas was undeniably active but these phrases are not mentioned in the Offside section of the Laws of the Game.
I would be on the side of disallowing the goal but that is only one possible interpretation of the rule. Even if I was 100% sure I was right, I wouldn’t blame the referee. I would blame the person who wrote the rules!
Gareth Bale was originally credited with an assist but a slight deflection caused the powers that be to change their minds. The BBC commentator thought his cross was poor but I think he meant it just as much as Tom Huddlestone meant his goal. Gareth also seemed to play a part in persuading the referee to allow the goal to stand. Maybe Mike Dean is a secret Wales fan.
Simon Davies could have got an assist – and a draw – for Fulham in his 300th league start.
It wasn’t Arsenal’s best or most beautiful performance but they got the three points against a team whom they’ve often struggled to deal with. True, Arsenal’s penalty was debatable, not a dive as such, it seemed like a genuine but premeditated trip, if that makes sense. And there was a bit of simulation with the rolling over and over and over but other than that, Marouane Chamakh is a great buy and I wish he was Welsh.
Aaron Ramsey didn’t play for Arsenal – but it won’t be long now.
Aston Villa 0-0 Chelsea
Chelsea have only won once at Villa Park in the last twelve years – and considering the last twelve years include three title wins for Chelsea, and no seasons where Aston Villa finished above Chelsea (the last instance of this was in the 1996-97 season), maybe some Chelsea fans will consider this a pretty good point.
James Collins was Man of the Match, at least according to Sky Sports (and you won’t find me disagreeing). James was strong in defence and was just one Villa player who came very close to winning the match.
Bolton Wanderers 2-1 Stoke City
As stoppage time began, the score was 1-1 and that would have been a fair result. Bolton’s supersub Ivan Klasnic popped up in the 92nd minute to take all three points. But that wasn’t the end, at least not quite yet. There was still time for Klasnic to receive not one but two yellow cards before the match ended.
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Danny Collins came close to a debut goal for Stoke. He and captain Ryan Shawcross didn’t deserve to be on the losing side.
Fulham 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur
There was more than a hint of offside about one of Tottenham’s goals and even the referee saw it. But after consultation with his linesman, who agreed with him, the referee changed his mind.
The rules are inconclusive but William Gallas did attempt to play the ball. He didn’t touch it but it looks as though he meant to and you could say he was attempting to interfere in active play. If you attempt to hit another player and fail, you receive the same punishment as you do when you actually make the connection. Gallas was attempting to commit an offence.
However, the definition of ‘interfering with play’ means playing or touching the ball. It doesn’t say anything about unsuccessful attempts to play the ball.
Alternatively, Gallas’ move towards the ball could be seen as interfering with an opponent (Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer). Interfering with an opponent includes making a movement that deceives or distracts the opponent – and Gallas’ movement almost certainly did deceive Schwarzer in the sense of making him think he was going to play the ball (Schwarzer can’t rely on the officials’ seeing the offence and disallowing the goal) and it did distract him from Tom Huddlestone’s shot in the sense that he kept an eye on the offside player instead of moving towards the path of the ball.
Gallas was probably seeking to gain an advantage because he is well-positioned if a shot rebounds off the bar or posts or is parried by Schwarzer – although this only becomes an offence if there is a rebound and he does touch the ball and it’s possible Gallas moved towards the ball, realised he was offside and decided not to touch it.
As for active and inactive play, Gallas was undeniably active but these phrases are not mentioned in the Offside section of the Laws of the Game.
I would be on the side of disallowing the goal but that is only one possible interpretation of the rule. Even if I was 100% sure I was right, I wouldn’t blame the referee. I would blame the person who wrote the rules!
Gareth Bale was originally credited with an assist but a slight deflection caused the powers that be to change their minds. The BBC commentator thought his cross was poor but I think he meant it just as much as Tom Huddlestone meant his goal. Gareth also seemed to play a part in persuading the referee to allow the goal to stand. Maybe Mike Dean is a secret Wales fan.
Simon Davies could have got an assist – and a draw – for Fulham in his 300th league start.
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.
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
Switzerland v Wales News 11th October 2010
Goalkeepers: Jonathan Bond (Watford), David Cornell (Swansea City), Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Boaz Myhill (West Bromwich Albion)
Defenders: Darcy Blake (Cardiff City), Danny Collins (Stoke City), James Collins (Aston Villa), Craig Morgan (Preston), Christian Ribeiro (Bristol City), Rhoys Wiggins (AFC Bournemouth), Ashley Williams (Swansea City), Adam Matthews (Cardiff City), Neil Taylor (Swansea City)
Midfielders: Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur), Dave Edwards (Wolves), Andy King (Leicester), Shaun MacDonald (Swansea City), Jazz Richards (Swansea City), David Vaughan (Blackpool)
Forwards: Simon Church (Reading), Ryan Doble (Southampton), Steve Morison (Millwall)
Injured: Neal Eardley (Blackpool, ankle), Danny Gabbidon (West Ham United, retired), Chris Gunter (Nottingham Forest, suspended), Sam Ricketts (Bolton Wanderers, suspended), Joe Allen (Swansea City, groin), Joe Ledley (Celtic, partner giving birth), Brian Stock (Doncaster Rovers, back), Robert Earnshaw (Nottingham Forest, hamstring), Ched Evans (Sheffield United, groin) Hal Robson-Kanu (Reading, hamstring)
The Wales players only need to look at a fixture list to get injured. At least, that’s how it seems. You could almost make a team out of the injured players. And let’s not forget Jack Collison, Aaron Ramsey, Craig Bellamy and probably Lewin Nyatanga, who would have been in the squad if they’ve been fit.
Ashley Williams has become the latest player to fall victim to the injury curse after turning his ankle during the defeat to Bulgaria but it looks like he will be fit to face Switzerland. Also, Gareth Bale and James Collins suffered slight strains during the match but they are okay now.
Craig Morgan is the player called up to replace Ashley just in case. I’m very happy for Craig as he’s done really well for Wales under John Toshack and was unlucky not to be called into the squad this time.
Ashley says Brian Flynn has kept the spirits of the Wales players high. It’s hard to imagine how but it’s good to know we have a manager who can work miracles. That could be very useful.
Brian Flynn says Gareth Bale will be their matchwinner which seems a bit unfair. Gareth is one of the best players but he doesn’t need that sort of pressure. If Wales win, Gareth will be a big part of it but he won’t be doing it on his own. Gareth is the third-youngest in the squad but also the third-most experienced.
Brian says he will play a more defensive side against Switzerland but luckily he doesn’t fancy the idea of playing 4-6-0 like Scotland did. Brian has been criticised for his defensive approach against Bulgaria but it’s good to know he has his limits.
Brian says he will pick a young squad against Switzerland. He doesn’t have much choice really but you can't underestimate the value of an experienced player or two.
Darcy Blake is expected to make his Wales debut at right back, in place of Chris Gunter, who was sent off in the match against Bulgaria. Second-choice right back Sam Ricketts is also suspended after picking up his second yellow card in the qualifiers.
David Vaughan says Wales will turn the corner. And I’m sure he’s right. They might not to it in time for tomorrow’s match but we can always hope.
Dave Edwards says the Wales players really want Brian to become their permanent manager.
Steve Morison says Wales will end their scoring drought. Steve is almost certain to start against Switzerland with Simon Church and Ryan Doble the only other options.
Sam Ricketts believes Wales can cause an upset against England. Well if Wales could only win two games in qualifying and I had to choose which two, I wouldn’t choose the games against Bulgaria, Switzerland or Montenegro.
Defenders: Darcy Blake (Cardiff City), Danny Collins (Stoke City), James Collins (Aston Villa), Craig Morgan (Preston), Christian Ribeiro (Bristol City), Rhoys Wiggins (AFC Bournemouth), Ashley Williams (Swansea City), Adam Matthews (Cardiff City), Neil Taylor (Swansea City)
Midfielders: Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur), Dave Edwards (Wolves), Andy King (Leicester), Shaun MacDonald (Swansea City), Jazz Richards (Swansea City), David Vaughan (Blackpool)
Forwards: Simon Church (Reading), Ryan Doble (Southampton), Steve Morison (Millwall)
Injured: Neal Eardley (Blackpool, ankle), Danny Gabbidon (West Ham United, retired), Chris Gunter (Nottingham Forest, suspended), Sam Ricketts (Bolton Wanderers, suspended), Joe Allen (Swansea City, groin), Joe Ledley (Celtic, partner giving birth), Brian Stock (Doncaster Rovers, back), Robert Earnshaw (Nottingham Forest, hamstring), Ched Evans (Sheffield United, groin) Hal Robson-Kanu (Reading, hamstring)
The Wales players only need to look at a fixture list to get injured. At least, that’s how it seems. You could almost make a team out of the injured players. And let’s not forget Jack Collison, Aaron Ramsey, Craig Bellamy and probably Lewin Nyatanga, who would have been in the squad if they’ve been fit.
Ashley Williams has become the latest player to fall victim to the injury curse after turning his ankle during the defeat to Bulgaria but it looks like he will be fit to face Switzerland. Also, Gareth Bale and James Collins suffered slight strains during the match but they are okay now.
Craig Morgan is the player called up to replace Ashley just in case. I’m very happy for Craig as he’s done really well for Wales under John Toshack and was unlucky not to be called into the squad this time.
Ashley says Brian Flynn has kept the spirits of the Wales players high. It’s hard to imagine how but it’s good to know we have a manager who can work miracles. That could be very useful.
Brian Flynn says Gareth Bale will be their matchwinner which seems a bit unfair. Gareth is one of the best players but he doesn’t need that sort of pressure. If Wales win, Gareth will be a big part of it but he won’t be doing it on his own. Gareth is the third-youngest in the squad but also the third-most experienced.
Brian says he will play a more defensive side against Switzerland but luckily he doesn’t fancy the idea of playing 4-6-0 like Scotland did. Brian has been criticised for his defensive approach against Bulgaria but it’s good to know he has his limits.
Brian says he will pick a young squad against Switzerland. He doesn’t have much choice really but you can't underestimate the value of an experienced player or two.
Darcy Blake is expected to make his Wales debut at right back, in place of Chris Gunter, who was sent off in the match against Bulgaria. Second-choice right back Sam Ricketts is also suspended after picking up his second yellow card in the qualifiers.
David Vaughan says Wales will turn the corner. And I’m sure he’s right. They might not to it in time for tomorrow’s match but we can always hope.
Dave Edwards says the Wales players really want Brian to become their permanent manager.
Steve Morison says Wales will end their scoring drought. Steve is almost certain to start against Switzerland with Simon Church and Ryan Doble the only other options.
Sam Ricketts believes Wales can cause an upset against England. Well if Wales could only win two games in qualifying and I had to choose which two, I wouldn’t choose the games against Bulgaria, Switzerland or Montenegro.
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