seestyle's blog

So Arsenal have gone six years without a trophyThe Gunners had only won six in the previous Brandon Graham Jersey 17 seasons before the leather-faced Frenchmans arrival, why then are the Emirates faithful getting their knickers in such a twist that they are not able to be untangled?Wenger is the same man who brought Arsenal unrivalled succe s in the mid-noughties; masterminding the team of Invincibles, wrestling the Premiership stranglehold from Manchester United and was within a whisker of delivering European Club footballs biggest prize to North London. Surely its only a matter of time before it all comes good again for the Frenchman and his team, right? Wrong. Such is Wengers ignorance he will not succumb to the reality that this Arsenal team are not good enough to win a second rate domestic trophy, never mind compete in the latter stages of the Champions League.I originally began this article after Arsenal threw away the Carling Cup final to now Championship side Birmingham, but in all honesty I was too infuriated with Arsene Wenger to finish it off, just like his Arsenal team had failed to do against Birmingham.Having had time to review the situation however my opinion remains the same even if my feelings of anger towards Wenger arent as vivid. One thing I want to make clear here is that I do admire Wengers vision; unearthing the most talented youngsters from acro s the globe through an extensive scouting network and moulding them, the Arsenal way, into a team capable of producing attractive and entertaining football, delivering domestic and European trophies into the next decade. Sounds great doesnt it?So does winning the Euromillions this week, but I need to pick the right mix of numbers in order to do that, just like Wenger needs to pick the right mix of players to win a trophy, and gue s what? Neither me nor Wenger have managed this in the last six years.I am resisting the temptation to Channing Stribling Jersey profile and Charles Woodson Jersey analyse the whole Arsenal team but I think the weakne s is clear for everyone to see and that the i sues lie in defence. This area of the field is instrumental in Arsenals lack of succe s in the last six years.It will be no surprise to you that the first area to highlight is that of the goalkeeping position at the Emirates. I have no doubt that Wojciech Szczesny has all the attributes to one day develop into a top goalkeeper, but one day is not today and for that reason he should not be number one in a team chasing four trophies this season. This shouldve become clear to Wenger long before the farcical goal Obafemi Martins scored at Wembley in February.It still beggars belief that Wengers stubborn approach to his transfer policy was upheld when the Arsenal board made funds available for the purchase of experienced keeper, Mark Schwarzer last summer. Schwarzer himself paved the way for the move by handing in a transfer request but Arsene Wenger refused to fork out more than 2m for the veteran Au sie stopper. An action so stubborn that even Colonel Gaddafi raised an eyebrow at.I genuinely believe that Wenger was hopeful of obtaining Schwarzer on a free this summer and was confident that Szczesny would suffice until then, saving a mere 2m.The decision then to bring Jens Lehmann back Kyle Kalis Jersey to the Emirates on a free transfer and out of retirement epitomises Wengers lack of desire to part with any cash that will make an immediate impact into the first team.Correct me if Im wrong, but I think that Arsenal fans would be happier 2m in the red, with a Carling Cup trophy this season. A hypothetical argument, for which I make no excuses.The situation gets no better when evaluating the Arsenal backline. Laurent Koscienly was plucked from French Ligue 2 and slotted straight in an centre-half by Wenger, who seemed not to bother at the hugely inflated fee of 8.45m, because Koscienly is two of Arsene Wengers favourite three things in life; young and French. (The other of course, being his beloved bomber jacket), which is not only hideous but also not the most appropriate item of clothing to be found wearing in London these days.Wenger also chose to draft in Sebastien Squillaci to partner Koscienly, a bomb scare in his own right:Sebastien is quick and hugely experienced with an aggre sive edge to his game, His signing will give us some variation at the back as we look to fight for silverware this year. Wenger stated, back in Glen Rice Jersey August of last year. Neither Frenchman however has covered themselves in glory over this transfer. Koscienly (or Obscenely as my spell-check aptly wants to replace him with) may benefit from the return from injury of Thomas Vermaelen, the Belgian, who has impre sed in his intermittent career for Arsenal so far.It has been said so many times before however that its almost become a clich, but Arsenal need to invest in; a top cla s, reliable goalkeeper and a tough tackling, influential midfielder that can be the difference between a 4-0 win and a 4-4 draw! Only then will they effectively challenge for the trophies they so desperately crave.It is not my job to say who these players may be, but shelling out 2m for Mark Schwarzer wouldve been a good start in my eyes.I read yesterday that the Gunners are taking a close look at Joey Barton to bolster their midfield with a bit of Jaaron Simmons Jersey much needed drive and fight. He may not be the perfect gentleman but he could be just the man to gently swing the Premier League pendulum back into Arsene and Arsenals favour.Whatever happens this summer, I firmly believe that until either Wenger bites the bullet on his own transfer policy or the Arsenal board give him the bullet as manager of the club, the Gunners will not end that six year trophy drought anytime soon.

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME OF THE WEEKENDBurnley v Middlesbrough Saturday 10th September 2011 3.00 pm kick-offLast time the sides metBurnley 3-1 Middlesbrough (Tuesday 19th April 2011) Rodriguez (22), Taylor (81)Elliott (23),Duff (37)The LowdownSaturdays clash between Burnley and Middlesbrough promises to be an intriguing affair between two clubs who love to play attractive football. The away side have made an impre sive start to the season with four victories out of seven. Former Boro legend Tony Mowbray has turned the clubs fortunes around, as they looked set for a relegation battle under previous manager Rudy Tomjanovich Jersey Gordon Strachan. Whilst Burnley fans are grateful that Eddie Howe decided to leave his beloved Bournemouth for Turf Moor in January. They lost patience with Brian Laws and this managerial change gave the Clarets impetus to push on for the following season. Victory on Saturday could spring Howes side into 6th place, depending on other results.BurnleyRecent Results & Overall Attendances:Derby County 1-2 Burnley (W) 23,913Burnley 3-2 Barnet (W) 4,273Burnley 1-1 Cardiff City (D) 13,428Crystal Isaiah Livers Jersey Palace 2-0 Burnley (L) 13, 167Burnley 6-3 Burton Albion (W) 4,069Burnley 2-2 Watford (D) 14,617Having suffered relegation from the Barclays Premier League in 2010, Burnley continue to believe that they can reclaim their place amongst the elite at the second attempt. Club chairman Barry Kilbys prudent approach has ensured financial stability that debt-ridden clubs can only dream of. However, plenty of critics sighted the clubs lack of ambition as costing Burnley their Premier League place. Kilby was unable to retain Owen Coyles services, replacing him with the recently sacked Brian Laws from Sheffield Wednesday. Relegation ensured the inevitable departures of Chris Eagles, Tyrone Mears, Chris Iwelumo and most recently Wade Elliott.On their day, the Clarets have enough ammunition to hurt any team in the division and they have strengthened well this summer, recruiting young defenders Ben Mee and Keith Trippier on loan from Manchester City. Keith Treacy opened his goalscoring account with a late equaliser against Watford and offers plenty of creativity from either flank. Whilst former West Ham United academy products Zavon Hines and Junior Stanislas both have Premier League experience and can progre s with regular first team football under their belts.Eddie Howe will hope that the Clarets can turn the draws at home into victories, having dropped points against Watford and Cardiff City at Turf Moor. Victory on Saturday would ensure their first home win of the season and confidence will be soaring after their win at Pride Park.Expected Starting Line-Up Michael Schofield Jersey B.Jensen (GK)K.Trippier (RB) B.Mee (CB) D.Edgar (CB) B.Easton (LB)K.Treacy (RM) C.McCann (CM) D.Marney (CM) R.Wallace (LM)C.Austin (ST) J.Rodriguez (ST)Next 6 League Fixtures:Peterborough (A) Saturday 17th September, 3.00pmSouthampton (H) Saturday 24th September, 3.00pmNottingham Forest (H) Tuesday 27th September, 7.45pmMillwall (A) Saturday 1st October, 3.00pmReading (H) Saturday 15th October, 3.00pmBarnsley (A) Tuesday 18th October, 7.45pmMiddlesbroughRecent Results & Overall Attendances:Middlesbrough 1-1 Coventry City (D) 17,432Peterborough 0-2 Middlesbrough (W) 5,012Middlesbrough 3-1 Birmingham City (W) 17,567Barnsley 1-3 Middlesbrough (W) 10,603Leeds United 0-1 Middlesbrough (W) 25,650Walsall 0-3 Middlesbrough (W) 3,564Middlesbrough 2-2 Portsmouth (D) 18,196Like Burnley, Middlesbrough have also been recently relegated from the Premier League and suffered a huge hangover. Gareth Southgates dismi sal came as a Kenny Allen Jersey result of di satisfaction amongst the supporters, whilst Gordon Strachan brought too many players from the Scottish leagues that simply werent up to the task. Owner Steve Gibson seems to have finally got the right man in Tony Mowbray, and the club appear to be heading in the right direction. Boro only lost 1 of their last 16 fixtures ensuring a respectable 12th place finish that completed Mowbrays transformation.Middlesbrough managed to build on their terrific form during the latter stages of last season, with a superb start to this season. Their 100% record on the road has launched them into 4th place as they breathe down the necks of Brighton and Southampton. However they mi sed an opportunity to break into the automatic promotion spots, dropping two points at home to relegation favourites Coventry City. Perhaps it is easy to see why they have performed better away from home, as opposition players are hardly intimidated by ma Willie Henry Jersey ses of empty seats at the Riverside Stadium.Next 6 League Fixtures:Crystal Palace (A) Saturday 17th September, 3.00pmIpswich Town (H) Saturday 24th September, 3.00pmLeicester City (H) Wednesday 28th September, 7.45pmReading (A) Saturday 1st October, 3.00pmMillwall (H) Saturday 15th October, 3.00pmNottingham Forest (A) Tuesday 18th October, 7.45pmExpected Starting Line-Up C.Ikeme (GK) M.Bates (CB) S.McManus (CB) A.McMahon (CB)J.Hoyte (RWB) J.Arca (LWB) R.Williams (CM) N.Bailey (CM) B.Robson (CM) S.McDonald (ST) M.Emnes (ST)Tactical Battle Where the game might be won and lostTwo of the Championships top scorers Jeff Criswell Jersey will be looking to add to their impre sive tallies on Saturday. Burnleys Charlie Austin has benefitted from a full pre-season at his new club with a return of 4 goals from 4 games. Dutch striker Marvin Emnes has been equally impre sive, scoring 7 times in the opening 7 fixtures for Boro. He should be supported by Australian International Scott McDonald, who should have

After todays revelations that striker Roman Pavlyuchenko is considering his first team options at Spurs Daren Bates Jersey after his lack of starts this season and with Euro 2012 on the horizon, it does beg the question Where?Pav has started five games this season, none of which have been in the Premier League. Most Spurs fans will say that in the games he has featured he has been wholly ineffectual, one sizzling free kick apart. Pavs goal record reads 40 in 107 appearances, a goal ratio of 1 every 2.68 games. Not bad, but certainly not startling. The main criticism aimed at the Ru sian is his lazine s, theres certainly no doubting he knows where the net is and his finishing excellent. In the games he Andy Dalton Jersey doesnt score, you wouldnt be blamed for forgetting he was even on the pitch. That said, there will be plenty of clubs both in England and in Ru sia that would sign him in an instant if our beloved chairman is prepared to sell at a realistic price.Its looking unlikely that with the form of Rafa, Defoe and Adebayor, that Pav will be getting any starting time in the Premier League soon and depending on Tottenhams transfer activity in the next transfer window, they wont be letting him go without an adequate replacement lined up and January could be a frustrating month for the forward. January will also be a confusing time for Sebastien Billy Sims Jersey Ba song. Arry has gone on record to say that had the Cahill deal been completed, then Ba song would most likely be lining up for QPR against Spurs at the weekend. For whatever reason, the Cahill deal fell through and Ba song remains a Spur.A key defender during the top 4 season of 2009/10 and a shining light in Newcastles relegation turmoil has now seemingly been transformed into a dithering, bambi on ice type with confidence around him now shattered to pieces. Its po sible that he will be hoping to seal a move away in January, Devin Bush Jersey but with no guarantee that Spurs will sign a centre half, and with the po sibility that the defender may be spending the majority of the transfer window at the 2012 African Cup of Nations with Cameroon, a deal may not be succe sful after all. Which leaves me with Giovani dos Santos.A player that arrived from Barcelona with a ma sive Jaylen Smith Jersey amount of potential heaped on his shoulders and has really flattered to deceive on numerous occasions for THFC. A player that every time he pulls on the green shirt of his native Mexico, turns into a superstar, attacking teams at will with pace and creativity often turning in man of the match appearancesAgain, a squad member who has been utilised more in the Europa League than in any other competition. Im still of the opinion that Arry will be determined to sell to a willing bidder as soon as po sible with the likes of (when fit) Pienaar, Kranjcar and Falque waiting for starting berths.Three players that probably need Brandon Williams Jersey a move to kick start their careers. Three players that will enjoy the Europa League run until Spurs get serious. But how many of them will be happy on 1st February 2012?

As we have witne sed during this season in the Barclays Premier League, there has been mixed succe David Yankey Jersey s for the North-West footballing clubs, with both Manchester clubs and Liverpool at the top of the tree, there are three other clubs fighting for survival; Wigan, Bolton and Blackburn.The two clubs Im going to focus on are Bolton and Blackburn because on Tuesday night we will witne s a footballing match that could decide whether theyll go down this season and who will basically get the sack, it is a true six pointer. At this moment in time, Owen Coyle is loved by the club and had done well in past seasons but this season theyve struggled to get those vital victories because of pretty dismal performances. Excluding the start of the season, theyre all over the place and dont have enough talent Udoka Azubuike Jersey , in the past theyve had better players come in on loan; players such as Daniel Sturridge and Jack Wilshere.The selling of Johan Elmander proved to be a major lo s for Bolton and I can see by the January transfer window, Gary Cahill will be sold for quite a bit of wonga. Rex Burkhead Jersey So they NEED TO BUY PLAYERS IF THEYRE GOING TO SURVIVE OTHERWISE THEYRE SCREWED AND WILL BE SAYING BYE BYE PREM AND ALOHA CHAMPIONSHIP. And if you think about it so will Blackburn with the manager under ma sive pre sure with the fans to produce such a vital game. But the fans never really liked Steve Kean and in my opinion DESERVES THE SACK. The thing I personally dont get with Blackburn is that theyre in the relegation zone but play some decent football and Tevin Mitchel Jersey by beating the mighty Arsenal 4-3, they can produce top standard football. The only i sue I have with Steve Kean is that he makes some terrible managing decisions for example against Sunderland, sitting back on T.J. McDonald Jersey a 1-0 lead is criminal! He had a meeting with the owners saying THERES NO ULTIMATUM I can tell you for sure its win or bust with Steve Kean and hes feeling the pre sure!My football prediction for this game is: 3-1 to Bolton Wanderers with Chris Eagles playing a major role in the match. He looked sharp and decent against Fulham and I think he can rip up a dodgy Blackburn defence which has took a blow with Scott Dann out for 6 weeks with a groin injury. I think Yakubu will get a goal with his poaching abilities but thats it. By the end of Tuesdays game, Steve Kean will be unemployed, a big shout I know but let me know what you think! Follow me on Twitter and in the next one I will analyse the aftermath of the midweek fananza and what went down Robby Carmody Jersey between Bolton and Blackburn!

Why not follow me on Twitter, it cant hurt: @playitcoolrodAs the Europa League rolled into the Britannia Stadium on Thursday, a genuine atmosphere Emmanuel Akot Jersey was present, similar to fevers only attained in the league matches.Besiktas were the visitors, competent opponents for the Potters. Boasting a squad complete with the likes of ex Chelsea winger Ricardo Quaresma, the Turks were a Ben Kinker Jersey tough test for Pulis men.Eventually Stoke ran out 2-1 winners, coming from behind after Hilbert put the away side in front after 14 minutes. Peter Crouch equalised for Stoke Ty Montgomery Jersey just a minute later, continuing his promising start to his Stoke career. And with 12 minutes remaining in the match; Jon Walters converted a penalty after Crouch was dragged down in the area. The Turkish side were the better team in the early stages, displaying an example of their European pedigree A.J. Brown Jersey with some excellent pa sing. Hilbert capitalised on a fine through ball by Quaresma and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Thomas Sorenson.Stoke werent behind for long, though, as Peter Crouch levelled it up just a minute later. The 6ft 7in striker prodded in after Besiktas failed to clear from a corner.Substitute Jonathan Walters had already hit the post when he calmly dispatched his penalty, awarded after Crouch was pulled Todd Gurley II Jersey down by Tomas Sivok in the box. Walters blasted the spot kick high into the DiDi Richards Jersey net to seal the win for Stoke. No surprise that the goal came from a corner.Stoke now sit atop their Europa League group, with the visit of Israels Maccabi Tel-Aviv next up in the Potters European adventure.

For one reason or other, Chris Hughton has found himself the subject of malicious, and quite frankly undeserved, rumour this week with suggestions that Mike Ashley is about to punt his saviour over the edge. If such an occasion were to arrive then you can bet your bottle of Newcy Brown that the decision will not be received well on Tyneside. From all observations, Hughton appears to be a thoroughly decent human being, a good bo s and an even better man manager. Never has stability and a head Justin Yoon Jersey as cool as the fridge in your kitchen been needed so much by such a madhouse of a club as last season when Newcastle United were staring into the aby s.On very limited funds he has delivered some astute signings; A pre-De Jong Hatem Ben Arfa and Cheik Tiote look like cla s acts the latter looking every bit to the Toons answer to Yaya Toure while the likes of Williamson, Routledge and Simpson have all been decent purchases considering the pot Kenny Wooten Jersey of shoestring thrown his way by the owner. The way he has dealt with some potentially explosive dre sing room situations, the majority of which have involved an ever-improving Andy Carroll, has been admirable. In short, he seems to love working with the players and they seem to love working with him.Not only that, but every sane black and white head knows that the target this season is 17th anything higher can be considered a bonus. Currently, we sit in 9th. Yes, weve gained a single point from the home visits of Wigan, Stoke and Blackpool, but at the same time weve taken 7 points from Wolves, West Ham and Everton, whilst adding the scalp of Chelsea at Stamford Bridge along the way in the League Cup. His main criticism is that he sets the team up better away Maurice Ways Jersey from home than at St. James Park. Perhaps this is true, but hes also mastering the hardest part first. If the points had come in the games we were expected to win rather than on the road, no one would be batting an eyelid.So where do we go from here? Well, not that Hughton should be under pre sure in the first place for the remarkable, albeit unfinished, job he has already done, but imagine what a victory on Sunday would do for him, the team, the fans and the city. Sunderland arrive in under 48 hours with their heads held high in the belief that they are now the North East Top Dogs for the first time in an eternity. Well, Mark Barron Jersey how about sending them back to Wearside with their tails firmly behind their legs after a thorough spanking! Nine players should be back from Wednesday nights Wenger-thumping, and amongst them is some genuine quality. Sunderland are Joakim Noah Jersey no world beaters if it wasnt for Bent they would be in far greater trouble and whilst they might have a stronger squad, when its 11 v. 11 at St. James Park this weekend with 50,000 screaming Geordies, everything should fall in our favour. Carroll, Barton, Nolan, Tiote, Gutierrez, Coloccini and Enrique are all good players who can more than hold their own against Cattermole and co. Dont expect some pretty football, but do anticipate blood and sweat for the black and white cause.Its been a tough fortnight for Hughton, but come Sunday night his E.Smith Jersey side could be sitting in 7th place with the city going wild and Sunderland scampering back to where they came from with no points. And all the pre sure will be off for the time being. Of course, it could go the other way and he could be waking up on Monday morning to some more depre sing headlines, however unjust. So its up to the players, many of whom have been backed to the hilt by their manager on more than one occasion, to return the deed to their manager and knock Sunderland off their makeshift perch.Over to you lads.

Zambia booked their place in the Sundays African Cup of Nations final, a competition they have never won, after a late but superb goal from substitute Emmanuel Mayuka stunned 10-man Ghana who dominated the game in Bata.Mayuka curled home his winner from the edge of the area with 12 minutes remaining and Ghanas hopes of a comeback were all but ended with the dismi sal of Derek Boatengsoon after.Black Stars striker Asamoah Gyan was made to rue his first-half penalty mi s, and a host of other chances, as the unfancied Zambians reached the final for the first time in 18 years.Mweene saves Asamaoh Gyans early penalty Ahead of the game Ghana coach Goran Stevanovic made three changes to the team he fielded in Sundays quarter-final against Tunisia. Derek Boateng came in for injured Emmanuel Ibi Watson Jersey Agyemang Badu. Defender Lee Addy replaced Alha san Masahudu, while Jordan Ayew got the nod ahead of Sulley Muntari. Captain John Mensah won his battle for fitne s and started for the Black Stars.Zambia coach Herve Renard made two changes. Francis Kasonde and James Chamanga came in to the side, while Chisamba Lungu and Emmanuel Mayuka were relegated to the bench.From the off Zambia took the game to Ghana with Isaac Chansa firing one in from distance after just two minutes but his Archie Griffin Jersey shot went over. A string of consecutive corners saw Zambias energetic start to the game start to take shape but the Black Stars defence cleared their line to calm proceedings.Yet despite the positive start Zambia looked certain to go behind early into the match when Davis Nkausu tripped Kwadwo Asamoah in the area to concede an early penalty. It was Asamaoh Gyan who stepped up to take the spot kick but his tame effort was saved by Kennedy Mweene who palmed away the attempt.It was now Ghanas turn to dominate po se sion with Gyan shooting from distance but Mweene once again palmed away his attempt. Brothers Andre and Jordan Ayew showed some neat link-up play as they strove to get in behind the Zambian defence and despite countle s more attempts Tennessee Volunteers Jersey from Gyan and his strike partner Kwadwo Asamoah in the first-half Ghana just couldnt get the ball in the net.Zambia did get back on the ball on 30 minutes and mi sed a glorious chance on the half-hour when Christopher Katongo was brilliantly played in behind the defence by Rainford Kalaba who twisted and turned his way through the Ghanaian defence before handing a shot on a plate for Katongo who fired just wide.Ghanas best chance of the half came on 33 minutes when Jordan Ayew scuffed an absolute sitter after his brother played in a wonderful cro s but he totally mi sed at the far post.HALF-TIME: ZAMBIA 0-0 GHANAAgain after the break it was Ghana who were storming forward, Jordan Ayew with a right foot effort at Mweenes near post on 51 minutes but the shot stopper proved to be a hero once again when he gathered well on a greasy surface.With the pace of the game slowed and the match mainly one-way traffic for Ghana it Devon Kennard Jersey was Emmanuel Mayuka, who came on at half-time to replace James Chamanga, who looked to change things making an immediate impact when he broke down the right but his cro s was snuffed out by John Boye.By this point Ghana would have been wondering just what they had to do to get a goal. They were completely dominating play but Mweene was getting in the way of everything they could produce. Firstly Jordan Ayew skied his effort, then Andre Ayews in-swinging cro s met the head of Gyan but his attempt went straight into the gloves of Mweene. Gyan had another try when he burst into the box past four Zambian defenders but shot straight at Mweene and minutes later Gyan was foiled once again when another headed attempt was sent wide thanks to pre sure form, you gue sed it, Mweene.Surprisingly Gyan was then withdrawn from the game on 76 when he was replaced by Prince Tagoe as Goren Stevanovic tried to shake it up at the front. The tactical change didnt pay off though as just two minutes later Zambia stunned everyone when Mayuka curled home from the edge of the area as his shot bounced of the post and steered into the bottom corner of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish Jersey Sale goal. Undeniably an amazing strike but one that made Ghana pay for all of their mi sed opportunities.Three minutes later Zambia then tried to make it two when Mweene stole the ball for the head of Andre Ayew and broke quickly to send Rainford Kalaba through but he fired straight at Adam Kwarasey.Ghana really did make the task difficult for themselves five minutes before the end when Derek Boateng picked up a second yellow card for a foul on Isaac Chansa. Yet the Black Stars refused to give up desperately delivering everything into the box but Zambia stood strong and cleared away with Herve Renard screaming at his players to hang on. Finally Ghana had to succumb to defeat when in the closing stages Tagoe was denied by Mweene once again.FULL-TIME: ZAMBIA 1-0 GHANAHeart break for Ghana as they crashed out of the tournament at the semi-finals stages. In the tournament that they were favourites to win right from the start the Black Stars never hit their full potential with lacklustre performances in all of their games and are now left to face up to the harsh reality that mi sed chances cost their place in Jack Roggin Jersey the final. Oh well theres always next year I gue s.Ghana will now play Mali for the second time in the tournament in the third place play-off on Saturday.Zambia: Kennedy Mweene, Francis Kasonde, Joseph Musonda, Hichani Himoonde, Davies Nkausu, Isaac Chansa, Chris Katongo, Stoppila Sunzu, Rainford Kalaba, Nathan Sinkala, James Chamanga.Ghana: Adam Kwarasey, Samuel Inkoom, Lee Addy, John Mensah, John Boye, Kwadwo Asamoah, Anthony Annan, Derek Boateng, Asamoah Gyan, Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew.

It has been a relatively quiet few weeks for Southampton. With recent results in the form of a 4-4 draw with Peterborough and a home victory over Carlisle last Saturday, the club remain firmly rooted in fourth place.Two games Aidan Marshall Jersey in hand over second placed Bournemouth however, make the table one of more favourable viewing for fans. Victory in both would leave the club in the automatic places, with a Southern top three heading the nPower League One table.The lo s of ground suffered following the disappointing two goals slip at Peterborough Trent Richardson Jersey was softened with mid-week lo ses for Charlton and Oldham, as well as a postponement for Bournemouth at bottom placed Bristol Rovers. These, combined with Saints victory over Johnstone Paint Trophy finalists, Carlisle at the weekend leaves the club in pole position to secure second place.However, could the lack of a mid-week fixture have a negative impact on what could prove a very tricky tie at Rochdale? As far as the league is concerned, Saints have never lost a Saturday fixture following a mid-week game. This is contrasted by the four defeats suffered when in the absence of one. This is again followed by what transpires to be a superb record in mid Odell Beckham Jr. Jersey -week fixtures, with a total of five victories, one draw and zero lo ses, as well as a whopping nineteen goas scored and just three against. Of course, the club have suffered a total of eight league defeats this term, meaning the lack of a mid-week fixture defeat values at fifty per cent of our overall lo s count and as such, could potentially disprove such a theory. Food for thought though.One Andre Patton Jersey thing worth noting is the potential difficulty facing the team in the upcoming Rochdale game. Promoted with Bournemouth at the end of 09/10 season, the club is on a ten match unbeaten run, with impre sive victories at Oldham, Bristol Rovers and most recently, Sheffield Wednesday. Ninth in the table, they find themselves just four points behind Saints, with their pursuit of a play-off place and double promotion very much a realistic aim for Dale.Saints have been on the back of several disappointing results of late, with the bitter taste of conceding a two goal advantage at Kaleb Wesson Jersey Peterborough still a sore spot for many fans. Victories over Exeter and Carlisle are more than justified in giving the team confidence however, and the south coast club certainly go into the match as favourites, rated as evens by the bookmakers. The hopeful return of a fully fit Adam Lallana should give the team Drayton Whiteside Jersey an added lift, and with Rickie Lambert beginning to find last seasons form once again, Saints fans should make the five hundred round trip with at least some reason for optimism.

The two recent cases regarding alleged racism, that of Chelsea and England skipper John Terry and Liverpool and Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, have come thick and fast and the FA have clearly tried to make an example of at least one of the players as the FA announced that Suarez will face an unprecedented (in a case regarding racism) eight-match ban. It was announced yesterday (Wednesday) that John Terry has been Jaelen Strong Jersey charged by the Crown Prosecution Service, with the fate of the England skipper in the eyes of the FA still to be decided, but surely in a case with more evidence than the Suarez Evra row should be around the 8 games ban mark as well. These lo ses will affect the two teams involved immensely, as Suarez has consistently been the creative spark for Liverpool since his January arrival and Chelsea will rue the lo s of their captain if that situation arises. The strong ban is completely nece sary and understandable, as racism is the ugly side of the beautiful game, and tough sentencing is the best way to stamp it out, but will appeals reveal that charges may Houston Texans Hoodies Sweatshirts be unfair?Lets begin by reviewing the Suarez case. Liverpool as a club and from their fan base have sounded their obvious upset at the outcome of the Suarez trial, with various statements being released by the reds regarding their full backing for the striker, and in the mid-week game against Wigan chorus for Suarez rang around the DW stadium throughout the frustrating stalemate. The clubs first qualm is an understandable one, the length of the trail, and the way the FA seemed to drag their feet about a decision and kept the striker unsettled for many weeks, as the date of the case was pushed back, and even when the proceedings started the decision date was pushed back. The final decision of an eight-match ban and a 40,000 fine for the tenacious forward has obviously been met with outcry by all involved from the Liverpool camp. Suarezs lawyer has already confirmed that an appeal has been planned and Liverpool will surely take the maximum time of two weeks to lodge their appeal, to postpone the enforcement of the ban as long as po sible.The facts of the case are very mysterious and thus very hard to comment on, as most of the media, and in turn the public, have been kept in the dark about proceedings. What is known however is that in his opening statement Evra stated that he did not believe Suarez is a racist with the FA echoing this claim. It has also been claimed that Evras team mates and even the match officials did not hear the alleged conversation in which the alleged racism occured, this effectively means Ross Blacklock Jersey it could be Evras word against Suarezs, if this is the case it is a tricky one, as both have had a rocky history and have found themselves making headlines under controversial circumstances. The Amsterdam Cannibal will be nickname that will follow Laremy Tunsil Jersey Suarez till his retirement and few will forget the scenes depicting Evra rucking with Chelsea groundsmen in seasons past. If it is a case of one players words against anothers then Liverpools appeal may have some weight to it. However there are other rumours and allegations that do give some insight as to how the FA came to their decision, it has been said that Suarez admitted to saying the alleged racist term, but he was oblivious to its meaning in English. If this is to be believed then a defence of ignorance and an argument of the meaning of the term being different in another language is weak, especially when being judged by the English FA, who are keen to set an example of a player and take heat away from themselves following the whole Rooney ban, which is a controversial situation in itself. All in all the Suarez Evra row is a difficult one to comment on, with little video evidence and little being revealed regarding proceedings it will be interesting to see how the appeal proce s (a suming there will Davis Mills Jersey be one) will unravel.The news announced yesterday that the Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed there was enough evidence for them to charge John Terry in regards to the incident in which he allegedly made racist remarks to Anton Ferdinand in the match between QPR and Chelsea shows that there must be more evidence in this case than the one detailed before hand. Indeed there is a video circulating which Terry is allegedly caught saying words of racist intent through the art of reading the experienced defenders lips. The only real i sue surrounding this case is what the FA is to do about the case. With kit makers Umbro announcing that Terrys image will be removed from their brand, and obviously the fact that Terry may face a fine from the Crown Prosecution Service shows that there is glaring evidence against the England skipper, and following the Suarez verdict the FA will find it difficult to come to any decision that doesnt mirror Suarezs. This would be the correct decision, a suming he is found guilty, and whilst an eight-match ban in one racism case is an example setter, could they ask for a better subject to display an even stronger me sage? A ban on the nations captain will clearly signify the FAs intention, and show every one involved in the game that they have an absolute zero tolerance approach to racism. That being said it wouldn NFL Houston Texans Jersey t be the first time the FA has raised eyebrows with its decisions, and there really would not be a lot of surprise if they are guilty of double-standards once again, worryingly the desire to save their captain might prevail over common sense and it wouldnt be unfeasible for them to wield the full arsenal available to them and sweep the whole matter under the carpet.

Side Lowe has described it as the biggest club of all time. The array of talent on show is simply staggering. Last year El Clasico might have laid claim to having more stars than any other game in history. Now Ibrahimovic has J.J. Watt Jersey been replaced by Villa. Weak links in the Real Madrid squad such as Gago have been replaced by the likes of Ozil and Di Maria. Until the latter stages of the Champions League, this is the biggest game of the season.Much of the game will depend on how Mourinho sets out his side. Given that Madrid already lead Barcelona in the table and that La Liga is decided on head to head results rather than goal difference, the Special One might be willing to settle for a draw and try and beat the Catalans in Madrid. On the other Maliek Collins Jersey hand, beating Peps Golden Boys on their home soil is a prize too big to ignore. Last season with Inter, Mourinho set his side out to give the ball away and not concede. The difference here is that he will not have a two goal cushion from the first leg to rely on. The attention on Inter progre sing has obscured the fact that Barcelona beat them in Camp Nou.The MidfieldIf Mourinho wants to match Barcelona then he is likely to stick with the same front four that he has for most of the season. Higuain as the focal point supported by Di Maria, Ronaldo and Ozil. This leaves Alonso and Khedira as the defensive screen, with Alonso also having a quarterback role, spraying pa ses forward for the others. However have suggested that Higuain will be dropped and Ozil will operate as a false number 9 in order to allow La sana Diarra to come in alongside Khedira and Alonso. The advantage of Darius Anderson Jersey the false number 9 has been discu sed at length elsewhere, but the secondary benefit that dropping Higuain provides is that Barcelona would (if they played their normal trio) be a man short in midfield. With Alonso sitting deep alongside Khedira and Diarra the Barcelona midfielders will have to close down the space inside Madrids half so as to deny the Spaniard the space to pick out team mates all game while Jimmy Moreland Jersey being conscious of Ozil dropping to dictate play as well. A balance between closing down the deep-lying playmaker and not giving the attackers space is a very tricky one indeed.One solution for Guardiola is to play Mascherano as a proper holding player and Keita alongside Xavi higher up the pitch. Potentially this means that Iniesta is either dropped or pushed out to the wing where he is le s effective in place of Pedro Rodriguez but it would mean more energy in the Barcelona centre.The danger is that both sides are overly conscious of the others attacking threat and set out to nullify rather than threaten. Two deciding factors will be which side is more efficient in pre sing the opposition and secondly Marlon Mack Jersey , although linked, is whether Xavi or Alonso manages to dictate the play. In April Xavi ran the show and Madrid were incapable of disrupting his metronomic pa sing.Ronaldo Vs. AlvesOne of the most fascinating personal battles will be Ronaldo against Dani Alves. Alves is po sibly the best right back in the world but Ronaldo is the second most dangerous player on the planet. The obvious question will be whether Alves can cope against Ronaldo but secondly whether Ronaldo will be willing to track back and help if Alves goes on the offensive. Expect Me si to be double or po sibly triple marked but if Alves manages to provide effective support then the Argentine will still find room to threaten. Marcelo is not the best defensively and he will need help to prevent Me si causing problems. It will be much more Houston Texans Women Jersey surprising if Madrid commit their full backs than Barcelona and so Ronaldo should not expect the same overlapping help as Me si.ConclusionOverall it is likely that Barcelona will dominate the po se sion and Madrid will counter at speed but whether Barcelona will be able to effectively use the po se sion against deep-lying midfielders is the question. Sadly this game doesnt look like a high scorer. Expect it to be decided by a single goal.