Goalkeepers: Jason Brown (Blackburn), Wayne Hennessey (Wolves), Lewis Price (Crystal Palace)
Defenders: Darcy Blake (Cardiff City), Danny Collins (Stoke), James Collins (Aston Villa), Neal Eardley (Blackpool), Chris Gunter (Nottingham Forest), Lewin Nyatanga (Bristol City), Sam Ricketts (Bolton), Ashley Williams (Swansea)
Midfielders: Andrew Crofts (Norwich), Andy Dorman (Crystal Palace), Andy King (Leicester), Joe Ledley (Celtic), David Vaughan (Blackpool)
Forwards: Simon Church (Reading), Robert Earnshaw (Nottingham Forest), Jermaine Easter (Crystal Palace), Freddy Eastwood (Coventry), Hal Robson-Kanu (Reading), Sam Vokes (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Withdrawals from original squad
Boaz Myhill (West Bromwich Albion), reason unknown
Danny Gabbidon (West Ham), hamstring
Craig Morgan (Preston North End), ankle
Dave Edwards (Wolverhampton Wanderers), ankle
Aaron Ramsey (Cardiff City, on loan from Arsenal), slight knock
Steve Morison (Millwall), muscle injury
Ched Evans (Sheffield United), virus
Lewis Price, Darcy Blake, Lewin Nyatanga, Andy Dorman, Jermaine Easter and Sam Vokes have been called up as replacements.
Joe Allen was also called up from the under-21 squad but he injured his calf in Swansea City's brilliant defeat to Cardiff City.
Players unavailable due to injury
Gareth Bale (Tottenham), back
Christian Ribeiro (Bristol City), hamstring
Neil Taylor (Swansea), ankle
Jack Collison (West Ham), knee
Craig Bellamy (Cardiff), ongoing knee problems
Other omissions
While it’s certainly possible that not all of these players would have been selected by Gary Speed had they been fit/available, they have all featured in recent squads.
David Cotterill (Swansea), limited game time
Brian Stock (Doncaster), very recent comeback from leg and/or back problems
Wales squads are always exciting if you’re me as they’re always full of Wales players. But three names made me feel particularly happy. The first is, of course, Aaron Ramsey, who features in a Wales squad for the first time since breaking his leg almost a year ago. (I know he's withdrawn now but it was great to see him there at all.) As an Arsenal and Wales fan, I have been forced to wait for Aaron's comeback but I am thrilled he’s back with my Welsh team again, hopefully helping them to get promoted and finish ahead of Swansea.
The second exciting name is (or was, until his injury) Danny Gabbidon, who has come out of retirement in order to be selected for this match. Gary Speed says he didn’t take much persuading. As his reason for retirement was his injury problems, I hope his latest problems won’t put him off being in Wales squads in the future. (Sadly, Simon Davies opted not to return although he says he was tempted. Perhaps he’ll be more tempted when Wales play England.)
The second name that particularly excited me was Freddy Eastwood. He has been doing very well for Coventry (when fit) over the past couple of seasons yet hasn’t featured in a Wales squad for two and a half years.
An interview with new Wales manager Gary Speed
Gary Speed has named Raymond Verheijen as his assistant manager. Verheijen’s work has already benefitted Wales: he has helped Craig Bellamy to manage his long-term knee injury.
Ryan Giggs is interested in helping Wales but not in a full-time role. Playing against the Republic of Ireland sounds like a part-time role to me. Kind of. Maybe.
Gary has told the Welsh players to earn their places in the squad.
It’s not clear who will be Wales’ captain against the Republic of Ireland but James Collins, Danny Gabbidon, Ashley Williams and Craig Bellamy are contenders to wear the armband against England. Danny and Craig obviously won’t play against the Republic of Ireland but James and Ashley are presumably contenders to be captain for this match too.
Andrew Crofts is delighted to be in the Wales squad. I'm glad someone is. Sometimes I wonder.
Robert Earnshaw says the match against the Republic Ireland will be more than just a warm-up for the match against England.
Gary believes Wales can qualify for the 2014 World Cup. That makes at least two of us.
Wales are 116th in the world rankings. But they can and will get higher and they’ll always be 1st for me.
Showing posts with label simon davies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label simon davies. Show all posts
Sunday, 6 February 2011
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Welsh Player News 5th February Premier League (Part 1)
Aston Villa
James Collins scored his second goal of the season to get a draw against rivals Birmingham City. He was Aston Villa’s Man of the Match against Wigan Athletic.
League: Birmingham A 1-1 (G1 73, Y foul 86, played all)
League: Man City H 1-0 (played all)
League: Wigan A 1-2 (played all)
FA Cup: Blackburn H 3-1 (bench, on 68)
League: Man Utd A 2-1 (played all)
Blackpool
Who would have guessed at the start of the season that Blackpool fans would be sitting in Old Trafford, feeling disappointed that they didn’t beat Manchester United? They so deserve to stay up but it’s going to be tough.
Neal Eardley was off the field when Blackpool conceded for the first time, having been kicked in the face by the Man Utd goalscorer.
League: WBA A 3-2 (starts, off 67)
League: Sunderland H 1-2 (played all)
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (played all)
League: West Ham H 1-3 (played all)
David Vaughan picked up another assist when he won a penalty for Blackpool but sadly they lost to Sunderland, who promptly tried to buy him.
League: WBA A 3-2 (G1 11, Y foul 56, played all)
League: Sunderland H 1-2 (won pen 86Y 94, played all)
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (played all)
League: West Ham H 1-3 (played all)
Rob Edwards
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (bench)
Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts
League: Stoke A 2-0 (played all)
League: Chelsea H 0-4 (bench)
FA Cup: FA Wigan H 0-0 (Y foul 59, played all)
League: Wolves H 1-0 (played all)
Fulham
Simon Davies
League: Wigan A 1-1 (starts, off 76)
League: Stoke H 2-0 (bench)
League: Liverpool A 1-0 (bench)
FA Cup: Spurs H 4-0 (bench, on 80)
League: Newcastle H 1-0 (bench, on 87)
Manchester United
Ryan Giggs – who has been voted Manchester United’s best-ever player - got the assist to start Manchester United’s hard-fought comeback against Blackpool. Yes, I did write hard-fought comeback against Blackpool. He also scored and got an assist in Man Utd’s 5-0 home thrashing of Birmingham City.
Ryan thinks his newly-retired team-mate Gary Neville will be a great assistant manager – but not a great manager.
League: Spurs A 0-0 (played all)
League: Birmingham H 5-0 (starts, G3 45+2, A4 53, off 55)
League: Blackpool A 2-3 (bench, on 46, A2 74)
FA Cup: FA Soton A 1-2 (bench)
League: Villa H 3-1 (played all)
Owen Hargreaves is still out with a hamstring injury – and could be the third Manchester United player to announcement his retirement this season, following his omission from Manchester United’s Champions’ League squad. He has, however, been named in the Premier League squad.
Michael Owen made his first start for Manchester United since returning from a hamstring injury. He started for a weakened Man Utd side who came from behind to beat Southampton 2-1 in the FA Cup. He was happy to play but he admits it wasn’t easy.
Michael’s horse-riding stable has raised hundreds of pounds for the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre.
League: Spurs A 0-0 (bench)
League: Birmingham H 5-0 (bench, on 55)
League: Blackpool A 2-3 (bench)
FA Cup: FA Soton A 0-1 (played all)
League: Villa H 3-1 (bench)
James Collins scored his second goal of the season to get a draw against rivals Birmingham City. He was Aston Villa’s Man of the Match against Wigan Athletic.
League: Birmingham A 1-1 (G1 73, Y foul 86, played all)
League: Man City H 1-0 (played all)
League: Wigan A 1-2 (played all)
FA Cup: Blackburn H 3-1 (bench, on 68)
League: Man Utd A 2-1 (played all)
Blackpool
Who would have guessed at the start of the season that Blackpool fans would be sitting in Old Trafford, feeling disappointed that they didn’t beat Manchester United? They so deserve to stay up but it’s going to be tough.
Neal Eardley was off the field when Blackpool conceded for the first time, having been kicked in the face by the Man Utd goalscorer.
League: WBA A 3-2 (starts, off 67)
League: Sunderland H 1-2 (played all)
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (played all)
League: West Ham H 1-3 (played all)
David Vaughan picked up another assist when he won a penalty for Blackpool but sadly they lost to Sunderland, who promptly tried to buy him.
League: WBA A 3-2 (G1 11, Y foul 56, played all)
League: Sunderland H 1-2 (won pen 86Y 94, played all)
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (played all)
League: West Ham H 1-3 (played all)
Rob Edwards
League: Man Utd H 2-3 (bench)
Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts
League: Stoke A 2-0 (played all)
League: Chelsea H 0-4 (bench)
FA Cup: FA Wigan H 0-0 (Y foul 59, played all)
League: Wolves H 1-0 (played all)
Fulham
Simon Davies
League: Wigan A 1-1 (starts, off 76)
League: Stoke H 2-0 (bench)
League: Liverpool A 1-0 (bench)
FA Cup: Spurs H 4-0 (bench, on 80)
League: Newcastle H 1-0 (bench, on 87)
Manchester United
Ryan Giggs – who has been voted Manchester United’s best-ever player - got the assist to start Manchester United’s hard-fought comeback against Blackpool. Yes, I did write hard-fought comeback against Blackpool. He also scored and got an assist in Man Utd’s 5-0 home thrashing of Birmingham City.
Ryan thinks his newly-retired team-mate Gary Neville will be a great assistant manager – but not a great manager.
League: Spurs A 0-0 (played all)
League: Birmingham H 5-0 (starts, G3 45+2, A4 53, off 55)
League: Blackpool A 2-3 (bench, on 46, A2 74)
FA Cup: FA Soton A 1-2 (bench)
League: Villa H 3-1 (played all)
Owen Hargreaves is still out with a hamstring injury – and could be the third Manchester United player to announcement his retirement this season, following his omission from Manchester United’s Champions’ League squad. He has, however, been named in the Premier League squad.
Michael Owen made his first start for Manchester United since returning from a hamstring injury. He started for a weakened Man Utd side who came from behind to beat Southampton 2-1 in the FA Cup. He was happy to play but he admits it wasn’t easy.
Michael’s horse-riding stable has raised hundreds of pounds for the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre.
League: Spurs A 0-0 (bench)
League: Birmingham H 5-0 (bench, on 55)
League: Blackpool A 2-3 (bench)
FA Cup: FA Soton A 0-1 (played all)
League: Villa H 3-1 (bench)
Saturday, 22 January 2011
Premier League Fixtures 22nd January (Part 1)
Aston Villa v Manchester City
Villa are near the bottom of the table, having won only one of their last ten matches but Manchester City are pretty good now. A win for them would put them back on top of the table.
James Collins should start for Aston Villa.
James is delighted that Villa have signed Darren Bent.
Blackpool v Sunderland
Sunderland could buy Blackpool’s squad five times over with the money they got from selling Darren Bent. So maybe it wasn’t quite such a stupid move but they will miss him. Blackpool will be hoping for a double over Sunderland – they are the only side to have beaten Sunderland at home in the Premier League.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will probably start for Blackpool. Rob Edwards will probably be on the bench.
The Blackpool players recorded a charity single this week to raise money for their coach Gary Parkinson who has locked-in syndrome and Donna’s Dream House.
Everton v West Ham United
Another week has passed and Avram Grant is still at West Ham. But Everton have beaten West Ham more times than they’ve beaten any other Premier League team. West Ham are looking for their second away win of the season.
Danny Gabbidon will hope to be back in West Ham’s starting line-up. Jack Collison almost certainly isn’t ready to return from a knee injury although he is back in training.
Fulham v Stoke City
The Premier League’s two Welsh managers meet for the third time this season – I wonder if Tony Pulis will shake Mark Hughes’ hand this time. I hope he does. He can’t help disliking him but that sort of behaviour is too childish even for me.
Simon Davies should start for Fulham.
Ryan Shawcross should start for Stoke and Danny Collins seems certain to start too now Danny Higginbotham is injured.
Villa are near the bottom of the table, having won only one of their last ten matches but Manchester City are pretty good now. A win for them would put them back on top of the table.
James Collins should start for Aston Villa.
James is delighted that Villa have signed Darren Bent.
Blackpool v Sunderland
Sunderland could buy Blackpool’s squad five times over with the money they got from selling Darren Bent. So maybe it wasn’t quite such a stupid move but they will miss him. Blackpool will be hoping for a double over Sunderland – they are the only side to have beaten Sunderland at home in the Premier League.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan will probably start for Blackpool. Rob Edwards will probably be on the bench.
The Blackpool players recorded a charity single this week to raise money for their coach Gary Parkinson who has locked-in syndrome and Donna’s Dream House.
Everton v West Ham United
Another week has passed and Avram Grant is still at West Ham. But Everton have beaten West Ham more times than they’ve beaten any other Premier League team. West Ham are looking for their second away win of the season.
Danny Gabbidon will hope to be back in West Ham’s starting line-up. Jack Collison almost certainly isn’t ready to return from a knee injury although he is back in training.
Fulham v Stoke City
The Premier League’s two Welsh managers meet for the third time this season – I wonder if Tony Pulis will shake Mark Hughes’ hand this time. I hope he does. He can’t help disliking him but that sort of behaviour is too childish even for me.
Simon Davies should start for Fulham.
Ryan Shawcross should start for Stoke and Danny Collins seems certain to start too now Danny Higginbotham is injured.
Tuesday, 18 January 2011
Premier League Results 15th January 2011
Manchester City 4-3 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Manchester City moved (briefly) to the top of the table following their victory over Wolves, who find themselves back in the bottom three. The fact that this match ended as a win for the home side would have been no surprise for anyone but when Wolves fought back from 4-1 down, having initially taken the lead, Manchester City were probably just a little bit concerned when Wolves got it back to 4-3 with four minutes plus stoppage time remaining. Ultimately, Manchester City kept the score at 4-3 but Wolves certainly deserved a bit more than the feeling that they’d just put three past the richest team in the world.
Wayne Hennessey was in goal for Wolves. David Jones started in place of the injured Dave Edwards and both Wayne and David helped Kolo Toure to score Manchester City’s first goal but I’m sure it was an accident. There was a surprise appearance for Sam Vokes on the bench but that was a nice surprise– let’s hope Sam’s second half of the season is a lot happier than his first.
Stoke City 2-0 Bolton Wanderers
Stoke deservedly took the three points in this match and are now behind Bolton only on goal difference. Bolton remain in what is probably quite likely to be a Europa League place but with no league wins since beating West Bromwich Albion in late December and no away wins since they played Wolverhampton Wanderers more than a month earlier (they have won only twice away this season), Bolton do have reason to be concerned.
Ryan Shawcross played the full match for Stoke but Danny Collins was dropped to the bench.
Sam Ricketts kept his place in the starting line-up for Bolton. The Mirror was impressed by his ‘magnificent tackle’ but Vital Bolton Wanderers didn’t like the way he ‘slid in hard’. (I’m not a 13 year old boy in disguise. I promise.)
West Bromwich Albion 3-2 Blackpool
West Bromwich Albion’s run of six matches without a win – including an FA Cup defeat to Reading – came to an end when Blackpool visited the Hawthorns. The result didn’t turn out quite as I wanted it to but it was an entertaining game with numerous chances and the comedy wasn’t restricted to Ian Holloway’s interview. Probably only Blackpool can lose a match you want them to win and still leave you feeling good – although perhaps this is not the case if Blackpool are your own football team, rather than one you’ve adopted because they’re just so loveable.
David Vaughan opened the scoring with a superbly-taken goal (which okay yes did go past Boaz Myhill, making his first Premier League in the West Brom goal to the delight of the West Brom fans, but it’s very difficult to make every Welsh player happy) and the match continued with taken chances, missed chances, and a whole lot of goals and excitement. Neal Eardley also started for Blackpool.
West Ham United 0-3 Arsenal
The result should never have been in doubt but Arsenal are still Arsenal. They dominated, failed to take many of their chances and didn’t play as well as they can do when they’re in the right mood. They could have been in a lot more trouble if West Ham weren’t so badly challenged in the goal-scoring department. Luckily, Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott were around to score and set up all three goals between them and Arsenal claimed the win.
Danny Gabbidon returned from injury but was left on the bench by West Ham, who preferred Wayne Bridge at left back. I think Arsenal preferred it that way too.
Aaron Ramsey wasn’t in Arsenal’s squad.
Wigan Athletic 1-1 Fulham
Fulham and Wigan did just about enough to ensure neither of them were in the bottom three at the end of this match – but Aston Villa spoiled things on Sunday by managing a draw against Birmingham City. Wigan took the lead after 57 minutes and probably thought they’d done enough to secure only their third home win of the season but Fulham striker Andrew Johnson came off the bench to score for the first time since recovering from a long and difficult series of injuries.
Simon Davies started for Fulham.
Manchester City moved (briefly) to the top of the table following their victory over Wolves, who find themselves back in the bottom three. The fact that this match ended as a win for the home side would have been no surprise for anyone but when Wolves fought back from 4-1 down, having initially taken the lead, Manchester City were probably just a little bit concerned when Wolves got it back to 4-3 with four minutes plus stoppage time remaining. Ultimately, Manchester City kept the score at 4-3 but Wolves certainly deserved a bit more than the feeling that they’d just put three past the richest team in the world.
Wayne Hennessey was in goal for Wolves. David Jones started in place of the injured Dave Edwards and both Wayne and David helped Kolo Toure to score Manchester City’s first goal but I’m sure it was an accident. There was a surprise appearance for Sam Vokes on the bench but that was a nice surprise– let’s hope Sam’s second half of the season is a lot happier than his first.
Stoke City 2-0 Bolton Wanderers
Stoke deservedly took the three points in this match and are now behind Bolton only on goal difference. Bolton remain in what is probably quite likely to be a Europa League place but with no league wins since beating West Bromwich Albion in late December and no away wins since they played Wolverhampton Wanderers more than a month earlier (they have won only twice away this season), Bolton do have reason to be concerned.
Ryan Shawcross played the full match for Stoke but Danny Collins was dropped to the bench.
Sam Ricketts kept his place in the starting line-up for Bolton. The Mirror was impressed by his ‘magnificent tackle’ but Vital Bolton Wanderers didn’t like the way he ‘slid in hard’. (I’m not a 13 year old boy in disguise. I promise.)
West Bromwich Albion 3-2 Blackpool
West Bromwich Albion’s run of six matches without a win – including an FA Cup defeat to Reading – came to an end when Blackpool visited the Hawthorns. The result didn’t turn out quite as I wanted it to but it was an entertaining game with numerous chances and the comedy wasn’t restricted to Ian Holloway’s interview. Probably only Blackpool can lose a match you want them to win and still leave you feeling good – although perhaps this is not the case if Blackpool are your own football team, rather than one you’ve adopted because they’re just so loveable.
David Vaughan opened the scoring with a superbly-taken goal (which okay yes did go past Boaz Myhill, making his first Premier League in the West Brom goal to the delight of the West Brom fans, but it’s very difficult to make every Welsh player happy) and the match continued with taken chances, missed chances, and a whole lot of goals and excitement. Neal Eardley also started for Blackpool.
West Ham United 0-3 Arsenal
The result should never have been in doubt but Arsenal are still Arsenal. They dominated, failed to take many of their chances and didn’t play as well as they can do when they’re in the right mood. They could have been in a lot more trouble if West Ham weren’t so badly challenged in the goal-scoring department. Luckily, Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott were around to score and set up all three goals between them and Arsenal claimed the win.
Danny Gabbidon returned from injury but was left on the bench by West Ham, who preferred Wayne Bridge at left back. I think Arsenal preferred it that way too.
Aaron Ramsey wasn’t in Arsenal’s squad.
Wigan Athletic 1-1 Fulham
Fulham and Wigan did just about enough to ensure neither of them were in the bottom three at the end of this match – but Aston Villa spoiled things on Sunday by managing a draw against Birmingham City. Wigan took the lead after 57 minutes and probably thought they’d done enough to secure only their third home win of the season but Fulham striker Andrew Johnson came off the bench to score for the first time since recovering from a long and difficult series of injuries.
Simon Davies started for Fulham.
Friday, 14 January 2011
Premier League Fixtures 15th January 2011 (Part 2)
West Bromwich Albion v Blackpool
A win for Blackpool will only put them into a Europa League place if other results go their way – but they’ll still have that game in hand. True, the game in hand is over Manchester United but let’s not spoil things by mentioning that. After all, Burnley beat Manchester United last season and they weren’t as good as Blackpool. Blackpool are hoping to do the double over West Brom. But they haven’t won at the Hawthorns since 1964.
Boaz Myhill is now West Bromwich Albion’s No. 1 goalkeeper following recent errors by Scott Carson. This will be his first Premier League match with the Baggies.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan should both start for Blackpool with Rob Edwards possibly on the bench.
West Ham United v Arsenal
After failing to beat Championship sides in their last two matches, Arsenal will be desperate to do better against a team that could be in the Championship next season. West Ham goalkeeper Rob Green always has a good game against Arsenal but that didn’t stop Arsenal from winning last time. West Ham haven’t actually beaten Arsenal since 2006.
Danny Gabbidon wasn’t in West Ham’s last squad but maybe he’ll be back to face Arsenal. Jack Collison is out with a long-term knee injury.
Aaron Ramsey will probably be on the bench for Arsenal but Arsene Wenger doesn’t seem willing to rush him back into first-team Premier League football.
Wigan Athletic v Fulham
Fifteen years ago, these clubs were in the bottom division together. They were promoted from that league together although it took Wigan a bit longer to get all the way up. Now, if they’re not careful, they might finding themselves heading in the opposite direction together. Wigan have the worst home record of any club but Fulham have only won once away this season.
Simon Davies was substituted at half-time during Fulham’s 6-2 thrashing of Peterborough United in the FA Cup but he might not be injured, maybe they just didn’t want to tire him out unnecessarily.
A win for Blackpool will only put them into a Europa League place if other results go their way – but they’ll still have that game in hand. True, the game in hand is over Manchester United but let’s not spoil things by mentioning that. After all, Burnley beat Manchester United last season and they weren’t as good as Blackpool. Blackpool are hoping to do the double over West Brom. But they haven’t won at the Hawthorns since 1964.
Boaz Myhill is now West Bromwich Albion’s No. 1 goalkeeper following recent errors by Scott Carson. This will be his first Premier League match with the Baggies.
Neal Eardley and David Vaughan should both start for Blackpool with Rob Edwards possibly on the bench.
West Ham United v Arsenal
After failing to beat Championship sides in their last two matches, Arsenal will be desperate to do better against a team that could be in the Championship next season. West Ham goalkeeper Rob Green always has a good game against Arsenal but that didn’t stop Arsenal from winning last time. West Ham haven’t actually beaten Arsenal since 2006.
Danny Gabbidon wasn’t in West Ham’s last squad but maybe he’ll be back to face Arsenal. Jack Collison is out with a long-term knee injury.
Aaron Ramsey will probably be on the bench for Arsenal but Arsene Wenger doesn’t seem willing to rush him back into first-team Premier League football.
Wigan Athletic v Fulham
Fifteen years ago, these clubs were in the bottom division together. They were promoted from that league together although it took Wigan a bit longer to get all the way up. Now, if they’re not careful, they might finding themselves heading in the opposite direction together. Wigan have the worst home record of any club but Fulham have only won once away this season.
Simon Davies was substituted at half-time during Fulham’s 6-2 thrashing of Peterborough United in the FA Cup but he might not be injured, maybe they just didn’t want to tire him out unnecessarily.
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
Wales News 12th january 2011
The Welsh FA still don’t want their players playing for Great Britain at the Olympics.
There’s been more speculation about the return of the Home International Championship. I think they should include the Republic of Ireland and then divide England into two teams, North England and South England, based on place of birth. That should even things up a bit.
Gary Speed likes the idea of reviving the Home International Championship but he says it couldn’t be a regular thing.
FA Wales have announced that Vauxhall will be their sponsors for the next three and a half years.
Tony Pulis would like to see Ryan Giggs playing for Wales again.
Gary Speed would like Danny Gabbidon and Simon Davies to come out of international retirement. He might even consider bringing Robbie Savage back. This is South Wales feels Wales should be grateful for what they can get.
Gary might also call up Wolverhampton Wanderers’ David Jones.
Ryan Shawcross is another possibility. The newspapers will have a field day if this happens… not that I’m hoping it won’t happen.
Wales Online suggest that Aaron Ramsey should be Wales’ new captain.
Neville Southall believes James Collins would be a better choice.
Andy King would like a bigger role with Wales.
There’s been more speculation about the return of the Home International Championship. I think they should include the Republic of Ireland and then divide England into two teams, North England and South England, based on place of birth. That should even things up a bit.
Gary Speed likes the idea of reviving the Home International Championship but he says it couldn’t be a regular thing.
FA Wales have announced that Vauxhall will be their sponsors for the next three and a half years.
Tony Pulis would like to see Ryan Giggs playing for Wales again.
Gary Speed would like Danny Gabbidon and Simon Davies to come out of international retirement. He might even consider bringing Robbie Savage back. This is South Wales feels Wales should be grateful for what they can get.
Gary might also call up Wolverhampton Wanderers’ David Jones.
Ryan Shawcross is another possibility. The newspapers will have a field day if this happens… not that I’m hoping it won’t happen.
Wales Online suggest that Aaron Ramsey should be Wales’ new captain.
Neville Southall believes James Collins would be a better choice.
Andy King would like a bigger role with Wales.
Tuesday, 11 January 2011
FA Cup Results 8th January 2011 Third Round (Part Two)
Coventry City 2-1 Crystal Palace
Both these teams are in the Championship and form often doesn’t matter where the FA Cup is concerned – and it very nearly didn’t in this match, with a late penalty save needed to prevent Palace from taking the match to a replay. Coventry travel to Birmingham City in the next round.
Freddy Eastwood made it three goals in three games for Coventry, also picking up the assist for their second goal.
Andy Dorman started for Palace and came close to scoring. Lewis Price was on the bench.
Doncaster Rovers 2-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Only a late equaliser prevented Wolves from being the victim of a cupset but as it was only an equaliser, and with Wolves probably more focused on survival than the FA Cup, the cupset could yet happen. The winner of the reply will play either Stoke City or Cardiff City. The second one, I hope.
A John Oster header was the assist for Doncaster’s second goal. He was also involved in a worrying incident involving a red-carded Wolves player but I’m hoping Mick McCarthy was mistaken about John’s role in it.
Some reports said Wayne Hennessey didn’t play due to injury but as he was on the bench and this was an FA Cup match, I think it’s probably more likely he was rested. Dave Edwards kept his place in the starting line-up but he suffered a hamstring injury and was substituted after just 28 minutes . His replacement, David Jones, came close to a goal but his shot went over the bar.
Fulham 6-2 Peterborough United
Fulham ensured they weren’t going to be embarrassed by putting six past League One Peterborough. Some fans might be worried by the fact that their team let in two goals but as one was a penalty and one was an exceptional strike (not to mention that Fulham weren’t playing their first-choice keeper), maybe there isn’t too much cause for concern. Clean sheet or not, Fulham’s win was emphatic and well-deserved. Maybe they can do the same against Tottenham Hotspur in the fourth round.
Fulham keeper David Stockdale had to be at his best to deny Peterborough’s Arron Davies early on.
Simon Davies missed an early chance against his former club Peterborough and was substituted at halt-time – hopefully this was to rest him rather than because he was injured/in Mark Hughes’ bad books for missing.
Huddersfield Town 2-0 Dover Athletic
Two early goals in two minutes from Huddersfield were enough for them to beat Dover Athletic, who have had a great FA Cup run and also played well in this game too but they were unable to break Huddersfield down, although they did come close, also working hard to ensure Huddersfield were limited to just the two goals. Dover miss out on a potential trip to the Emirates but maybe Leeds will win the replay and I’m sure Huddersfield won’t be too disappointed if they do.
Adam Birchall, who must surely still be the FA Cup’s top scorer, was unable to add to his eleven goals but with 29 for Dover so far this season, he surely won’t be playing non-league football forever.
Lincoln City 3-4 Hereford United (second round)
Seven goals were scored and it could have been either side who scored the winning goal but in the end it went to Hereford – who were probably especially glad to avoid a replay as they tend to struggle at home. Hereford’s third round match against Wycombe Wanderers is also away and if they get through to the fourth round, they will face giant-killers Sheffield Wednesday away.
Hereford opened the scoring with Lincoln then going 2-1 ahead before Hereford took a 3-2 lead, with Stuart Fleetwood scoring the second and third goals, only for Lincoln to equalise again five minutes later. Stuart then set up Matthieu Manset to score his second and Hereford’s fourth and the away side hung on, despite losing Ryan Green to his second red card of the season after the defender received two yellow cards. This was his third match since returning from his last suspension.
Millwall 1-4 Birmingham City
Millwall had 53% of the possession, almost the same number of shots on target, considerably more off-target, and won 8 corners to Birmingham’s 0. But it was the Premier League side who took their chances to set up a fourth round tie with another Championship team, Coventry City. Darren Carter, Jason Puncheon and Ashley Grimes all found the net but as former Millwall loanees Carter and Puncheon are now back with their parent clubs and Grimes is still out on loan, this didn’t do Millwall any good at all. Millwall miss out on the chance to host Coventry City in the fourth round.
Steve Morison did his best to mount a comeback for Millwall and arguably should have scored three: one from a one-on-one situation, one from a penalty which he missed, and one from a goal that was wrongly disallowed. Maybe Steve is still feeling the affects of the flu that kept him out of the win over Crystal Palace last weekend and clearly hampered him during Millwall’s midweek fixture against Derby County..
Both these teams are in the Championship and form often doesn’t matter where the FA Cup is concerned – and it very nearly didn’t in this match, with a late penalty save needed to prevent Palace from taking the match to a replay. Coventry travel to Birmingham City in the next round.
Freddy Eastwood made it three goals in three games for Coventry, also picking up the assist for their second goal.
Andy Dorman started for Palace and came close to scoring. Lewis Price was on the bench.
Doncaster Rovers 2-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Only a late equaliser prevented Wolves from being the victim of a cupset but as it was only an equaliser, and with Wolves probably more focused on survival than the FA Cup, the cupset could yet happen. The winner of the reply will play either Stoke City or Cardiff City. The second one, I hope.
A John Oster header was the assist for Doncaster’s second goal. He was also involved in a worrying incident involving a red-carded Wolves player but I’m hoping Mick McCarthy was mistaken about John’s role in it.
Some reports said Wayne Hennessey didn’t play due to injury but as he was on the bench and this was an FA Cup match, I think it’s probably more likely he was rested. Dave Edwards kept his place in the starting line-up but he suffered a hamstring injury and was substituted after just 28 minutes . His replacement, David Jones, came close to a goal but his shot went over the bar.
Fulham 6-2 Peterborough United
Fulham ensured they weren’t going to be embarrassed by putting six past League One Peterborough. Some fans might be worried by the fact that their team let in two goals but as one was a penalty and one was an exceptional strike (not to mention that Fulham weren’t playing their first-choice keeper), maybe there isn’t too much cause for concern. Clean sheet or not, Fulham’s win was emphatic and well-deserved. Maybe they can do the same against Tottenham Hotspur in the fourth round.
Fulham keeper David Stockdale had to be at his best to deny Peterborough’s Arron Davies early on.
Simon Davies missed an early chance against his former club Peterborough and was substituted at halt-time – hopefully this was to rest him rather than because he was injured/in Mark Hughes’ bad books for missing.
Huddersfield Town 2-0 Dover Athletic
Two early goals in two minutes from Huddersfield were enough for them to beat Dover Athletic, who have had a great FA Cup run and also played well in this game too but they were unable to break Huddersfield down, although they did come close, also working hard to ensure Huddersfield were limited to just the two goals. Dover miss out on a potential trip to the Emirates but maybe Leeds will win the replay and I’m sure Huddersfield won’t be too disappointed if they do.
Adam Birchall, who must surely still be the FA Cup’s top scorer, was unable to add to his eleven goals but with 29 for Dover so far this season, he surely won’t be playing non-league football forever.
Lincoln City 3-4 Hereford United (second round)
Seven goals were scored and it could have been either side who scored the winning goal but in the end it went to Hereford – who were probably especially glad to avoid a replay as they tend to struggle at home. Hereford’s third round match against Wycombe Wanderers is also away and if they get through to the fourth round, they will face giant-killers Sheffield Wednesday away.
Hereford opened the scoring with Lincoln then going 2-1 ahead before Hereford took a 3-2 lead, with Stuart Fleetwood scoring the second and third goals, only for Lincoln to equalise again five minutes later. Stuart then set up Matthieu Manset to score his second and Hereford’s fourth and the away side hung on, despite losing Ryan Green to his second red card of the season after the defender received two yellow cards. This was his third match since returning from his last suspension.
Millwall 1-4 Birmingham City
Millwall had 53% of the possession, almost the same number of shots on target, considerably more off-target, and won 8 corners to Birmingham’s 0. But it was the Premier League side who took their chances to set up a fourth round tie with another Championship team, Coventry City. Darren Carter, Jason Puncheon and Ashley Grimes all found the net but as former Millwall loanees Carter and Puncheon are now back with their parent clubs and Grimes is still out on loan, this didn’t do Millwall any good at all. Millwall miss out on the chance to host Coventry City in the fourth round.
Steve Morison did his best to mount a comeback for Millwall and arguably should have scored three: one from a one-on-one situation, one from a penalty which he missed, and one from a goal that was wrongly disallowed. Maybe Steve is still feeling the affects of the flu that kept him out of the win over Crystal Palace last weekend and clearly hampered him during Millwall’s midweek fixture against Derby County..
Saturday, 8 January 2011
Transfer News and Rumours 8th January 2011 (Championship)
It is thought that Bristol City will listen to offers for Gavin Williams, who has just had foot surgery.
Doncaster manager Sean O’Driscoll hopes Brian Stock will sign a new contract but a number of other clubs are interested.
Kenny Jackett says Millwall don’t need to sell Steve Morison – and there’s been no contact from Fulham. So if Mark Hughes wants to manage Steve, he’ll have to wait until the Wales manager post becomes vacant again. And hopefully that won’t be for a very long time.
Millwall striker Steve Morison says he won’t be letting the Fulham rumours distract him. Wolverhampton Wanderers are also interested.
Nottingham Forest have told Robert Earnshaw he will need to take a paycut if he wants to remain at the club. Rob’s current contract expires this summer.
Simon Church has been linked with Swansea City but he’s focused on helping Reading into the Premier League.
Hal Robson-Kanu could move from Reading to Swindon Town in a swap with Charlie Austin.
Jermaine Easter hopes to sign a permanent deal with Swansea City, having apparently come to the conclusion he’d rather be on the bench for a top Championship side than for a mid-table League One club.
Newcastle United are interested in Swansea City’s Ashley Williams but Brendan Rogers has no plans to sell him. Swansea are also concerned that they could lose Joe Allen.
Swansea City goalkeeper David Cornell will spend the rest of the season on loan at Welsh Premier League club Port Talbot.
Doncaster manager Sean O’Driscoll hopes Brian Stock will sign a new contract but a number of other clubs are interested.
Kenny Jackett says Millwall don’t need to sell Steve Morison – and there’s been no contact from Fulham. So if Mark Hughes wants to manage Steve, he’ll have to wait until the Wales manager post becomes vacant again. And hopefully that won’t be for a very long time.
Millwall striker Steve Morison says he won’t be letting the Fulham rumours distract him. Wolverhampton Wanderers are also interested.
Nottingham Forest have told Robert Earnshaw he will need to take a paycut if he wants to remain at the club. Rob’s current contract expires this summer.
Simon Church has been linked with Swansea City but he’s focused on helping Reading into the Premier League.
Hal Robson-Kanu could move from Reading to Swindon Town in a swap with Charlie Austin.
Jermaine Easter hopes to sign a permanent deal with Swansea City, having apparently come to the conclusion he’d rather be on the bench for a top Championship side than for a mid-table League One club.
Newcastle United are interested in Swansea City’s Ashley Williams but Brendan Rogers has no plans to sell him. Swansea are also concerned that they could lose Joe Allen.
Swansea City goalkeeper David Cornell will spend the rest of the season on loan at Welsh Premier League club Port Talbot.
Fa Cup Fixtures 8th January 2011 (Part 3)
Doncaster Rovers v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Doncaster have only played Wolves six times but at least four of them must have been in the last two seasons. Doncaster are unbeaten in three matches and their last home defeat was in mid-October.
John Oster and Brian Stock should start for Doncaster.
Wayne Hennessey is expected to be rested. Dave Edwards is hoping for a run in the team but he could be rested too – although this would give David Jones a chance of coming into the side. Sam Vokes is still out with his hamstring injury.
Fulham v Peterborough United
Fulham are having striker problems again. They face Peterborough, who have apparently spent only one season in the same division as them.
Fulham could rest former Peterborough player Simon Davies, who has long-term ankle problems.
Arron Davies (no relation as far as I know) will hope to start for Peterborough.
Huddersfield Town v Dover Athletic
Dover are the lowest-ranked team left in the FA Cup. They scored six against Macclesfield Town in the last round and seven against Thurrock in their last match but Huddersfield are probably better than Macclesfield and Thurrock. They’ll hope so anyway. But they’re not taking any chances: they are expected to name a full-strength team.
Adam Birchall has scored eleven FA Cup goals so far this season. He’s so happy to be back in love with football again but he still dreams of being back in the Premier League one day. As for the FA Cup match, Dover can do it again.
Lincoln City v Hereford Town
Two of League Two’s strugglers meet in this match.
Ryan Valentine (stomach) remains out for Hereford but Ryan Green should start and Stuart Fleetwood certainly deserves to. Stuart feels Hereford can get to the fourth round.
Millwall v Birmingham City
Millwall’s season in the Championship is going better than many predicted (and worse than I predicted, I said they’d get promoted but I only said that to make my dad happy) – they are unbeaten in the last eight matches. Birmingham are perhaps struggling a bit more than most people expected. They’re unbeaten in one.
Steve Morison should play for Millwall but I’m hoping he won’t do anything too brilliant until the transfer window has closed and he’s still safely at Millwall. A hat-trick should be just about okay but four goals will be pushing it.
Doncaster have only played Wolves six times but at least four of them must have been in the last two seasons. Doncaster are unbeaten in three matches and their last home defeat was in mid-October.
John Oster and Brian Stock should start for Doncaster.
Wayne Hennessey is expected to be rested. Dave Edwards is hoping for a run in the team but he could be rested too – although this would give David Jones a chance of coming into the side. Sam Vokes is still out with his hamstring injury.
Fulham v Peterborough United
Fulham are having striker problems again. They face Peterborough, who have apparently spent only one season in the same division as them.
Fulham could rest former Peterborough player Simon Davies, who has long-term ankle problems.
Arron Davies (no relation as far as I know) will hope to start for Peterborough.
Huddersfield Town v Dover Athletic
Dover are the lowest-ranked team left in the FA Cup. They scored six against Macclesfield Town in the last round and seven against Thurrock in their last match but Huddersfield are probably better than Macclesfield and Thurrock. They’ll hope so anyway. But they’re not taking any chances: they are expected to name a full-strength team.
Adam Birchall has scored eleven FA Cup goals so far this season. He’s so happy to be back in love with football again but he still dreams of being back in the Premier League one day. As for the FA Cup match, Dover can do it again.
Lincoln City v Hereford Town
Two of League Two’s strugglers meet in this match.
Ryan Valentine (stomach) remains out for Hereford but Ryan Green should start and Stuart Fleetwood certainly deserves to. Stuart feels Hereford can get to the fourth round.
Millwall v Birmingham City
Millwall’s season in the Championship is going better than many predicted (and worse than I predicted, I said they’d get promoted but I only said that to make my dad happy) – they are unbeaten in the last eight matches. Birmingham are perhaps struggling a bit more than most people expected. They’re unbeaten in one.
Steve Morison should play for Millwall but I’m hoping he won’t do anything too brilliant until the transfer window has closed and he’s still safely at Millwall. A hat-trick should be just about okay but four goals will be pushing it.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Welsh Players Christmas-New Year matches 2010-11 (Premier League, Part 1)
I’m never going to catch up on all the matches that have taken place (or not) so I’ll just do a quick overview of all the Welsh (and nearly Welsh) players.
Arsenal
Aaron Ramsey made his long-awaited return to non-reserve football when he came off the bench for loan club Nottingham Forest. A number of Forest’s matches were cancelled due to the snow but Aaron managed four appearances, including two starts. Forest were hoping to extend Aaron’s loan but Arsene Wenger understandably said no.
(all matches with Nottingham Forest)
Palace H 3-0 (bench, on 74)
Derby H 5-2 (starts, off 60)
Barnsley A 2-2 (bench, on 54)
Sanchez Watt is still on loan at Leeds United so I’ll talk about him later.
Aston Villa
James Collins has got himself into a few spots of bother on and off the field but he has managed to keep his place in the team. Along with practically every other footballer whose name the media knows, there have been rumours about him leaving his club in the transfer window.
Spurs H 1-2 (played all)
Man C A 4-0 (played all)
Chelsea A 3-3 (Y foul 22, played all)
Sunderland H 0-1 (Y foul 45+2, played all)
Elliot Parish hasn’t been near the first team as far as I’m aware. Even when reserve keeper Brad Guzan was absent, Villa stuck some other guy on the benc. But hopefully that will dissuade the England lower level sides from picking him and then Wales can nip in.
Blackburn Rovers
Jason Brown has returned from Leyton Orient, ending his second loan spell of the season. Leeds United and Leyton Orient should have given him a clue about whether he really wants first-team football or not. Jason played no matches over the Christmas period due to the cancellation of Orient’s games and what can only be ignorance (or that’s what I tell myself) on the part of new manager Steve Kean.
Blackpool
Neal Eardley didn’t start the season at the forefront of Ian Holloway’s mind (and maybe that was no bad thing the forefront of Ian Holloway’s mind is probably a scary place) but now he’s starting every match and providing assists (although he didn’t get any over Christmas).
Sunderland A 0-2 (played all)
Man City A 1-0 (played all)
Birmingham H 1-2 (played all)
David Vaughan has gone about his duties rather more quietly than Neal and if you’re not physically watching or listening to the match, it’s difficult to know if he’s doing anything at all. But according to fans and manager, he most certainly is. David’s contract ends this summer and Ian Holloway wants to keep him – but only if he’ll stop arguing and sign a new contract. If he won’t sign, it might be better to let him go now and get a bit of money for him. It’s not like Blackpool are in dire relegation straits after all. There’s nothing dire about Blackpool.
Sunderland A 0-2 (played all)
Man City A 1-0 (played all)
Birmingham H 1-2 (played all)
Rob Edwards had a period of not being in the matchday squad but it turned out he was injured and over the past month, he has been on the bench every time. Maybe that’s not where he most wants to be but as long as you’re on the bench, at least you have a chance of playing.
Sunderland A 0-2 (bench)
Man City A 1-0 (bench)
Birmingham H 1-2 (bench)
Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts got himself back into the first team and has pretty much stayed there. He did get dropped for one match but Bolton Wanderers soon saw sense and brought him on as a substitute.
Sunderland A 1-0 (played all)
WBA H 2-0 (bench, on 64)
Chelsea A 1-0 (played all)
Liverpool A 2-1 (played all)
Wigan H 1-1 (played all)
Chelsea
Rhys Taylor is still on loan at Crewe Alexandra from ‘struggling Chelsea’. He has the option of moving to another club in this transfer window but if he does want to go, he’s been keeping it quiet.
Fulham
Simon Davies said his ongoing foot injury would prevent him from playing regularly for Fulham but it looks as though he’s underestimated himself. But the really good news is that he hasn’t said a definite no in response to Gary Speed’s attempt to recall him to the Wales squad so I kind of feel vaguely hopeful some of the time.
Simon has four assists from his last four games, as well as a brilliant goal.
West Ham H 1-3 (A1 11, played all)
Stoke A 0-2 (played all)
Spurs A 1-0 (played all)
WBA H 3-0 (starts, G1 45+1, A2 56, A3 65, off 82)
Manchester City
Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy remains on loan at Cardiff City for the season although there are reports of plans to steal him away from his childhood club.
Arsenal
Aaron Ramsey made his long-awaited return to non-reserve football when he came off the bench for loan club Nottingham Forest. A number of Forest’s matches were cancelled due to the snow but Aaron managed four appearances, including two starts. Forest were hoping to extend Aaron’s loan but Arsene Wenger understandably said no.
(all matches with Nottingham Forest)
Palace H 3-0 (bench, on 74)
Derby H 5-2 (starts, off 60)
Barnsley A 2-2 (bench, on 54)
Sanchez Watt is still on loan at Leeds United so I’ll talk about him later.
Aston Villa
James Collins has got himself into a few spots of bother on and off the field but he has managed to keep his place in the team. Along with practically every other footballer whose name the media knows, there have been rumours about him leaving his club in the transfer window.
Spurs H 1-2 (played all)
Man C A 4-0 (played all)
Chelsea A 3-3 (Y foul 22, played all)
Sunderland H 0-1 (Y foul 45+2, played all)
Elliot Parish hasn’t been near the first team as far as I’m aware. Even when reserve keeper Brad Guzan was absent, Villa stuck some other guy on the benc. But hopefully that will dissuade the England lower level sides from picking him and then Wales can nip in.
Blackburn Rovers
Jason Brown has returned from Leyton Orient, ending his second loan spell of the season. Leeds United and Leyton Orient should have given him a clue about whether he really wants first-team football or not. Jason played no matches over the Christmas period due to the cancellation of Orient’s games and what can only be ignorance (or that’s what I tell myself) on the part of new manager Steve Kean.
Blackpool
Neal Eardley didn’t start the season at the forefront of Ian Holloway’s mind (and maybe that was no bad thing the forefront of Ian Holloway’s mind is probably a scary place) but now he’s starting every match and providing assists (although he didn’t get any over Christmas).
Sunderland A 0-2 (played all)
Man City A 1-0 (played all)
Birmingham H 1-2 (played all)
David Vaughan has gone about his duties rather more quietly than Neal and if you’re not physically watching or listening to the match, it’s difficult to know if he’s doing anything at all. But according to fans and manager, he most certainly is. David’s contract ends this summer and Ian Holloway wants to keep him – but only if he’ll stop arguing and sign a new contract. If he won’t sign, it might be better to let him go now and get a bit of money for him. It’s not like Blackpool are in dire relegation straits after all. There’s nothing dire about Blackpool.
Sunderland A 0-2 (played all)
Man City A 1-0 (played all)
Birmingham H 1-2 (played all)
Rob Edwards had a period of not being in the matchday squad but it turned out he was injured and over the past month, he has been on the bench every time. Maybe that’s not where he most wants to be but as long as you’re on the bench, at least you have a chance of playing.
Sunderland A 0-2 (bench)
Man City A 1-0 (bench)
Birmingham H 1-2 (bench)
Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts got himself back into the first team and has pretty much stayed there. He did get dropped for one match but Bolton Wanderers soon saw sense and brought him on as a substitute.
Sunderland A 1-0 (played all)
WBA H 2-0 (bench, on 64)
Chelsea A 1-0 (played all)
Liverpool A 2-1 (played all)
Wigan H 1-1 (played all)
Chelsea
Rhys Taylor is still on loan at Crewe Alexandra from ‘struggling Chelsea’. He has the option of moving to another club in this transfer window but if he does want to go, he’s been keeping it quiet.
Fulham
Simon Davies said his ongoing foot injury would prevent him from playing regularly for Fulham but it looks as though he’s underestimated himself. But the really good news is that he hasn’t said a definite no in response to Gary Speed’s attempt to recall him to the Wales squad so I kind of feel vaguely hopeful some of the time.
Simon has four assists from his last four games, as well as a brilliant goal.
West Ham H 1-3 (A1 11, played all)
Stoke A 0-2 (played all)
Spurs A 1-0 (played all)
WBA H 3-0 (starts, G1 45+1, A2 56, A3 65, off 82)
Manchester City
Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy remains on loan at Cardiff City for the season although there are reports of plans to steal him away from his childhood club.
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.
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
Premier League Results 11th December 2010
Aston Villa 2-1 West Bromwich Albion
Aston Villa’s run of five straight defeats came to an end when they won the derby match with West Bromwich Albion.
James Collins played for Villa despite daring to go out for a meal with his wife in the vicinity of a nightclub the night before a game. He nearly scored (during the match, I mean, not at the nightclub) and finished the game with a match-saving block.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom and missed the chance to play against a former club.
Fulham 0-0 Sunderland
Both teams have drawn more than their fair share of matches this season so this result was no surprise at all. Fulham remain outside the bottom three on goal difference and have equalled the record for the biggest number of draws in the opening seventeen games. This was their tenth draw. I won’t say how many matches Mark Hughes has won from his last twenty-six because I’m supposed to be nice to Welshmen.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham. He might have got an assist if the referee hadn’t been paying attention.
Stoke City 0-1 Blackpool
Tony Pulis and Ian Holloway are good friends and Tony’s son Anthony Pulis, now at Stockport County on loan from Southampton, is apparently Ian Holloway’s godson. Which practically makes Ian Welsh if you’re me. But if Tony had had another child after this match, maybe he would have chosen a different godparent.
Stoke are formidable at home and they were on a five-match unbeaten run but Blackpool fear nobody and they do have the third-best away record in the League, after Arsenal and Manchester City. The win puts them into the top half of the table. They haven’t done enough to stop them from going down (not even Manchester United have done that) but at least they’ve managed to shut up most of the people who are saying they’ll go straight back down again.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross played in defence for Stoke. Danny says he can’t blame the fans for jeering.
Neal Eardley nearly scored on his 150th league appearance and also made a great block to deny Stoke a certain goal but this was unfortunately credited to a team-mate.
David Vaughan also had a good game – 91% of his passes were successful. Rob Edwards was on the bench. It’s nice to see the Blackpool players being so complimentary about two of my favourite Blackpool players.
West Ham United 1-3 Manchester City
West Ham must be so disappointed. If only their former player Carlos Tevez had decided to leave forty-eight hours earlier. It would have thrown the club into disarray and maybe West Ham could have got a point or three.
Danny Gabbidon didn’t play for West Ham due to injury. Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion are both said to be interested in bringing Danny to the Midlands.
Aston Villa’s run of five straight defeats came to an end when they won the derby match with West Bromwich Albion.
James Collins played for Villa despite daring to go out for a meal with his wife in the vicinity of a nightclub the night before a game. He nearly scored (during the match, I mean, not at the nightclub) and finished the game with a match-saving block.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom and missed the chance to play against a former club.
Fulham 0-0 Sunderland
Both teams have drawn more than their fair share of matches this season so this result was no surprise at all. Fulham remain outside the bottom three on goal difference and have equalled the record for the biggest number of draws in the opening seventeen games. This was their tenth draw. I won’t say how many matches Mark Hughes has won from his last twenty-six because I’m supposed to be nice to Welshmen.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham. He might have got an assist if the referee hadn’t been paying attention.
Stoke City 0-1 Blackpool
Tony Pulis and Ian Holloway are good friends and Tony’s son Anthony Pulis, now at Stockport County on loan from Southampton, is apparently Ian Holloway’s godson. Which practically makes Ian Welsh if you’re me. But if Tony had had another child after this match, maybe he would have chosen a different godparent.
Stoke are formidable at home and they were on a five-match unbeaten run but Blackpool fear nobody and they do have the third-best away record in the League, after Arsenal and Manchester City. The win puts them into the top half of the table. They haven’t done enough to stop them from going down (not even Manchester United have done that) but at least they’ve managed to shut up most of the people who are saying they’ll go straight back down again.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross played in defence for Stoke. Danny says he can’t blame the fans for jeering.
Neal Eardley nearly scored on his 150th league appearance and also made a great block to deny Stoke a certain goal but this was unfortunately credited to a team-mate.
David Vaughan also had a good game – 91% of his passes were successful. Rob Edwards was on the bench. It’s nice to see the Blackpool players being so complimentary about two of my favourite Blackpool players.
West Ham United 1-3 Manchester City
West Ham must be so disappointed. If only their former player Carlos Tevez had decided to leave forty-eight hours earlier. It would have thrown the club into disarray and maybe West Ham could have got a point or three.
Danny Gabbidon didn’t play for West Ham due to injury. Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion are both said to be interested in bringing Danny to the Midlands.
Saturday, 11 December 2010
Championship Fixtures 11th December 2010 (Part 3)
Preston North End v Ipswich Town
Preston have only won one of their last eleven matches but they are unbeaten in two. Ipswich have just beaten West Bromwich Albion but that wasn’t in the league. They haven’t won in the league for over a month.
Craig Morgan and Paul Parry haven’t started for Preston since they lost to Hull nearly a month ago. But in the two games before that when both started, one of them scored.
Troy Brown played in the win over West Brom and kept his place for the next game but Ipswich didn’t win. So he could be back on the bench again. It wasn’t his fault though – but neither was it Roy Keane’s, according to Troy and his team-mates.
Reading v Coventry City
If Coventry win this match, it will be their fourth win in a row and fourth clean sheet in a row. Reading are also unbeaten in four but they didn’t actually win any of those games. Like Leeds’ away form, Reading’s home form could be a clue to what formation they will play. Coventry go for a more radical 4 2 4.
Simon Church has been starting for Reading but not scoring. So he could be back on the bench with Hal Robson-Kanu and that might not be all bad because he’s such a great supersub but I’m sure he’d rather be a superstarter.
Freddy Eastwood will probably be on the bench as the other strikers keep scoring.
Scunthorpe United P-P Nottingham Forest
Aaron Ramsey misses another chance to build up his match fitness after the freezing weather conditions in Scunthorpe lead to the cancellation of this match.
Preston have only won one of their last eleven matches but they are unbeaten in two. Ipswich have just beaten West Bromwich Albion but that wasn’t in the league. They haven’t won in the league for over a month.
Craig Morgan and Paul Parry haven’t started for Preston since they lost to Hull nearly a month ago. But in the two games before that when both started, one of them scored.
Troy Brown played in the win over West Brom and kept his place for the next game but Ipswich didn’t win. So he could be back on the bench again. It wasn’t his fault though – but neither was it Roy Keane’s, according to Troy and his team-mates.
Reading v Coventry City
If Coventry win this match, it will be their fourth win in a row and fourth clean sheet in a row. Reading are also unbeaten in four but they didn’t actually win any of those games. Like Leeds’ away form, Reading’s home form could be a clue to what formation they will play. Coventry go for a more radical 4 2 4.
Simon Church has been starting for Reading but not scoring. So he could be back on the bench with Hal Robson-Kanu and that might not be all bad because he’s such a great supersub but I’m sure he’d rather be a superstarter.
Freddy Eastwood will probably be on the bench as the other strikers keep scoring.
Scunthorpe United P-P Nottingham Forest
Aaron Ramsey misses another chance to build up his match fitness after the freezing weather conditions in Scunthorpe lead to the cancellation of this match.
Premier League Fixtures 11th December 2010
Aston Villa v West Bromwich Albion
Villa have never lost to West Brom in the Premier League but the two midlands clubs meet with West Brom the side on form. Villa have only lost once at home this season and that was to Arsenal.
Gerard Houllier is said to be unhappy with Villa’s defending. James Collins is in trouble for going clubbing the night before a match, although he says it was just a meal with his wife, but Houllier says he won’t punish him.
One Welshman likely to be sitting on the bench though is West Brom’s Boaz Myhill.
Fulham v Sunderland
Fulham are only out of the bottom three on goal difference and really need a win. But one thing Fulham and Sunderland share is the fact that they’ve drawn at least as many games as they’ve won and lost put together. Managers Mark Hughes and Steve Bruce did better when they were on the same team.
Simon Davies should play for Fulham.
Stoke City v Blackpool
Blackpool have been training on the beach. It sounds nice… but then I remembered the temperature. Blackpool are unbeaten in three but Stoke are notoriously strong at the Britannia Stadium and are themselves unbeaten in five.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross should both start for Stoke. And if anyone from Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid or Juventus happens to be reading, Ryan is not for sale. Okay?
Neal Eardley will be making his 150th league appearance if he plays some part in this match – I’d expect both him and David Vaughan to start with Rob Edwards on the bench.
David can expect a lot of support today from his fan club – of which Everon are apparently members.
West Ham United v Manchester City
The papers are full of rumours of Manchester City bust-ups but they are still fourth in the league and could be second after this match (or top if they win by seven goals). West Ham are unbeaten in five home games in all competitions.
Jack Collison is back in training for West Ham! He won’t be playing in this fixture and he probably still won’t play again in 2010. Maybe he’ll inspire West Ham to win. They have done quite well against teams from Manchester recently.
Danny Gabbidon should play for West Ham – which is also very exciting when you consider his own injury problems.
Villa have never lost to West Brom in the Premier League but the two midlands clubs meet with West Brom the side on form. Villa have only lost once at home this season and that was to Arsenal.
Gerard Houllier is said to be unhappy with Villa’s defending. James Collins is in trouble for going clubbing the night before a match, although he says it was just a meal with his wife, but Houllier says he won’t punish him.
One Welshman likely to be sitting on the bench though is West Brom’s Boaz Myhill.
Fulham v Sunderland
Fulham are only out of the bottom three on goal difference and really need a win. But one thing Fulham and Sunderland share is the fact that they’ve drawn at least as many games as they’ve won and lost put together. Managers Mark Hughes and Steve Bruce did better when they were on the same team.
Simon Davies should play for Fulham.
Stoke City v Blackpool
Blackpool have been training on the beach. It sounds nice… but then I remembered the temperature. Blackpool are unbeaten in three but Stoke are notoriously strong at the Britannia Stadium and are themselves unbeaten in five.
Danny Collins and Ryan Shawcross should both start for Stoke. And if anyone from Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid or Juventus happens to be reading, Ryan is not for sale. Okay?
Neal Eardley will be making his 150th league appearance if he plays some part in this match – I’d expect both him and David Vaughan to start with Rob Edwards on the bench.
David can expect a lot of support today from his fan club – of which Everon are apparently members.
West Ham United v Manchester City
The papers are full of rumours of Manchester City bust-ups but they are still fourth in the league and could be second after this match (or top if they win by seven goals). West Ham are unbeaten in five home games in all competitions.
Jack Collison is back in training for West Ham! He won’t be playing in this fixture and he probably still won’t play again in 2010. Maybe he’ll inspire West Ham to win. They have done quite well against teams from Manchester recently.
Danny Gabbidon should play for West Ham – which is also very exciting when you consider his own injury problems.
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, 16 November 2010
Premier League Results 13th November 2010 (Part 1)
Aston Villa 2-2 Manchester United
Aston Villa kept their unbeaten home record intact but let a 2-0 lead slip in the last ten minutes to give Manchester United another undeserved point. Manchester United are unbeaten both home and away.
James Collins scored for Villa in their last game and could have made it two in two but his effort hit the crossbar. James believes Villa should have won and he’s kind of right really.
Ryan Giggs, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Owen were sitting on Utd’s treatment table nursing their hamstrings.
Jordan Henderson says he really looked up to Ryan as a child. Not when you were sitting on his shoulders, you didn’t, Jordan.
Newcastle United 0-0 Fulham
When you’ve just suffered the agony of watching your team being beaten by Newcastle, the last thing you want is then to see that team only managing to draw against a team who can’t win away.
Unfortunately, this is what they did. Imagine how embarrassing it would have been if Bobby Zamora was fit.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham. He used to do things like that for Wales.
Stoke City 2-0 Liverpool
Those people who say Liverpool are back to their old selves are not wrong. After a couple of blips which saw Fernando Torres score goals, Liverpool are back to what they do best. Stoke moved into the top half of the table, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference after beating them for the first time for twenty-six years. Torres would have been a few months old at most. But there is some good news for the Liverpool fans: Lucas won’t be playing next week.
Ryan Shawcross and Danny Collins helped Stoke to keep a clean sheet.
Tony Pulis isn’t going to criticise Fabio Capello for leaving Ryan Shawcross out of the England side (neither am I!) but he does make it clear he’s left out the best young centre back in the country.
Tottenham Hotspur 4-2 Blackburn Rovers
There, you see. He doesn’t just do it against the big sides. He does it against Blackburn too. Gareth Bale tied Michel Salgado in so many knots (again), he was taken off after 37 minutes and replaced by a striker. Well, Gareth went past him like he wasn’t there so he might as well not be.
Gareth, who was making his 100th league appearance, scored Tottenham’s first goal, set up the second and scored the fourth, ensuring that a first-half penalty miss (not from Gareth) didn’t matter. I don’t know what he was doing when the third goal went in, probably doing his hair or something. But if Gareth keeps being Man of the Match, they need to change the rules and give him a bottle of something he’ll actually drink.
Blackburn weren’t great but at least they had a go at fighting back. That’s not something you’ll see from every team.
Aston Villa kept their unbeaten home record intact but let a 2-0 lead slip in the last ten minutes to give Manchester United another undeserved point. Manchester United are unbeaten both home and away.
James Collins scored for Villa in their last game and could have made it two in two but his effort hit the crossbar. James believes Villa should have won and he’s kind of right really.
Ryan Giggs, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Owen were sitting on Utd’s treatment table nursing their hamstrings.
Jordan Henderson says he really looked up to Ryan as a child. Not when you were sitting on his shoulders, you didn’t, Jordan.
Newcastle United 0-0 Fulham
When you’ve just suffered the agony of watching your team being beaten by Newcastle, the last thing you want is then to see that team only managing to draw against a team who can’t win away.
Unfortunately, this is what they did. Imagine how embarrassing it would have been if Bobby Zamora was fit.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham. He used to do things like that for Wales.
Stoke City 2-0 Liverpool
Those people who say Liverpool are back to their old selves are not wrong. After a couple of blips which saw Fernando Torres score goals, Liverpool are back to what they do best. Stoke moved into the top half of the table, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference after beating them for the first time for twenty-six years. Torres would have been a few months old at most. But there is some good news for the Liverpool fans: Lucas won’t be playing next week.
Ryan Shawcross and Danny Collins helped Stoke to keep a clean sheet.
Tony Pulis isn’t going to criticise Fabio Capello for leaving Ryan Shawcross out of the England side (neither am I!) but he does make it clear he’s left out the best young centre back in the country.
Tottenham Hotspur 4-2 Blackburn Rovers
There, you see. He doesn’t just do it against the big sides. He does it against Blackburn too. Gareth Bale tied Michel Salgado in so many knots (again), he was taken off after 37 minutes and replaced by a striker. Well, Gareth went past him like he wasn’t there so he might as well not be.
Gareth, who was making his 100th league appearance, scored Tottenham’s first goal, set up the second and scored the fourth, ensuring that a first-half penalty miss (not from Gareth) didn’t matter. I don’t know what he was doing when the third goal went in, probably doing his hair or something. But if Gareth keeps being Man of the Match, they need to change the rules and give him a bottle of something he’ll actually drink.
Blackburn weren’t great but at least they had a go at fighting back. That’s not something you’ll see from every team.
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.
Tuesday, 2 November 2010
Championship Results 30th November 2010 (Part 3)
Portsmouth 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Portsmouth’s good form continued with a win over Nottingham Forest. The win takes Portsmouth up to 10th place, just one point away from the play-offs.
Chris Gunter was back at right back for Forest with Robert Earnshaw making a late appearance from the bench.
Reading 4-3 Doncaster Rovers
Reading scored four goals in the same match for the second successive game, this time coming back from 3-1 down to beat Doncaster. And for the second successive game, Simon Church came off the bench and scored Reading’s winning goal.
Hal Robson-Kanu started again for Reading..
John Oster and Brian Stock both started for Doncaster.
Scunthorpe United 1-4 Leeds United
Scunthorpe have sprung a number of games this season – at least as far as I’m concerned as I thought they’d be spending the season struggling at the foot of the table. And strange as it sounds, Scunthorpe were in the division above Leeds last season. But Leeds dominated and thoroughly deserved their win.
Jason Brown was on the bench for Leeds.
Sheffield United 0-1 Coventry City
Covrentry moved up to fourth after an away win over Sheffield United, who haven’t won since September.
Ched Evans made his second comeback from a groin injury in the 65th minute.
Freddy Eastwood is back in full training but was not in Coventry’s squad.
Portsmouth’s good form continued with a win over Nottingham Forest. The win takes Portsmouth up to 10th place, just one point away from the play-offs.
Chris Gunter was back at right back for Forest with Robert Earnshaw making a late appearance from the bench.
Reading 4-3 Doncaster Rovers
Reading scored four goals in the same match for the second successive game, this time coming back from 3-1 down to beat Doncaster. And for the second successive game, Simon Church came off the bench and scored Reading’s winning goal.
Hal Robson-Kanu started again for Reading..
John Oster and Brian Stock both started for Doncaster.
Scunthorpe United 1-4 Leeds United
Scunthorpe have sprung a number of games this season – at least as far as I’m concerned as I thought they’d be spending the season struggling at the foot of the table. And strange as it sounds, Scunthorpe were in the division above Leeds last season. But Leeds dominated and thoroughly deserved their win.
Jason Brown was on the bench for Leeds.
Sheffield United 0-1 Coventry City
Covrentry moved up to fourth after an away win over Sheffield United, who haven’t won since September.
Ched Evans made his second comeback from a groin injury in the 65th minute.
Freddy Eastwood is back in full training but was not in Coventry’s squad.
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