Ireland Under-23 Squad Revealed

Republic of Ireland Under-23 manager Paul Doolin named a 20-man squad to face England in their opening International Challenge Trophy match at the RSC in Waterford on 26 May. The Under-23 selection will also face Giovanni Trapattoni's training camp squad in a behind closed doors-training match on 18 May.

The squad is made entirely of Airtricity League players and gives players the chance to shine in the international set-up when they may have never had the chance before.

Doolin said: 'This is a really talented squad of players and it shows just how many excellent young players are currently playing in the Airtricity League.

'Although the players are young, there is a great deal of experience in the squad. Most of the players have played first team Airtricity League football for several seasons and quite a few already have experience of international football with various underage squads.

'To get the opportunity to represent your country is a huge honour for any player and I'm sure they will all be relishing the chance to pull on the green shirt against England at the RSC. It will be a special night and I am really looking forward to it.

'Prior to the England game, we will have the opportunity to have a look at the players when they face Giovanni Trapattoni's training camp squad. This is a great opportunity to give the players a chance to play together against good opposition ahead of the England match. The opportunity to come up against senior international players is also something that the players will no doubt look forward to.'

Republic of Ireland Under-23 squad: Darren Quigley Sporting Fingal, Robert Duggan Shamrock Rovers, Seamus Conneely Galway United, Garry Breen Dundalk, Stephen Mulcahy Cork City Foras Co-op, Kenny Browne Sporting Fingal, Conor Powell Bohemians, Ian Bermingham St Patrick's Athletic, Ronan Finn Sporting Fingal, Greg Bolger UCD, James Chambers Shamrock Rovers, Stephen O'Donnell Galway United, Billy Dennehy Shamrock Rovers, Ross Gaynor Dundalk, Gary McCabe Sligo Rovers, Shaun Williams Sporting Fingal, Paul Byrne St Patrick's Athletic, Karl Sheppard Galway United, Padraig Amond Sligo Rovers, Paddy Madden Bohemians.

Carlsberg DO do football ads...and they're probably the best in the world

With the World Cup coming up this summer the excitement of every football is huge. The problem with the build-up to the biggest sporting event in the world is the amount of ads we have to put up with on our televisions.

One of the more painful cases this year involves Peter Crouch, Dirk Kuyt, Nicolas Anelka and Cesc Fabregas. The Premier League stars should hang their heads in shame for this Pringles ad. Another awful ad involves Terry Venables singing for The Sun (the funniest part is the head on Harry Redknapp when he comes out for some reason).

That being said there are some decent efforts. Sony's ad with Venables (again), Graham Taylor, Kenny Dalglish, Kelly Brook (anything that gets her on tv more is ok in my book) and Stuart Pearce is very funny. The Pepsi ad follows their usual trend of not asking footballers to try to do much acting, and it works. Stars like Messi, Drogba, Lampard and Henry (scum) lend their skills to a decent effort from Pepsi that includes the world cup anthem from Akon.

However, it is up to Carlsberg once more to put the best ad forward. This time though it isn't their usually hilarious offering but more of an inspirational one. Not like the brilliant Pub Team ad with England legend's or the retirement home for the Irish managers, this year's offering tries to get the hairs on the back of your neck to stand up.

Using famous faces from England, the ad really tries to get the viewer pumped up and following England. As much as I hate to admit it, it worked on me so I can think what the English public make of it.

Leeds one step closer to where they belong

Leeds United were THE team in English football in the 1970's. To think that the great club that produced moments of magic like this (go to 1:19) would be languishing in the third tier of English football.

Since they reached the Champion's League semi-final the great Yorkshire club experienced a disastrous seven years that has seen the club experience relegations (twice), lost play-off finals, administration and a revolving door of managers. In the ensuing time Leeds have become somewhat of a cautionary tale for teams in the Premier League. When Newcastle United were relegated last year, many fans felt they could "do a Leeds", now that Liverpool have had one poor season, according to Man Utd fans, they will "do a Leeds". The last few seasons have not exactly been brilliant to be a follower of Leeds.

Well today brings new optimism for one of the greatest clubs in English football. Today's attendance in Elland road was a staggering 38,234 people. That's 38,234 fans at a third-tier match, bigger than the full capacity of 11 stadiums in the Premier League! Not since Manchester City were in the old Division 2 has there been crowds of that magnitude in the lower leagues of English football.



Man City should be a source of inspiration for all Leeds fans. The blue side of Manchester was languishing out of the Premier League for nearly half a decade before re-establishing themselves in the top tier and becoming the big-spenders that we know them as today. So instead of being the doom and gloom merchants looking for a high profile side to "do a Leeds", let's instead hope that the once dominant force of English football returns to where they belong and "do a City."

Premier League Team of the Year

When the PFA team of the year was unveiled I must admit a few selections had me scratching my head. Obviously there were on or two players who were guaranteed to get in such as Rooney and Dunne but there were some glaring omissions in my opinion. So here is my Team of the year:


1. Pepe Reina (Liverpool)

I think that Joe Hart had a fantastic season for Birmingham but I had him third in gooalkeepers behind Brad Freidel and Reina. The big Spaniard just beats out the American because Reina has kept Liverpool's season respectable with another year of fine performances.


2. Carlos Cuellar (Aston Villa)

One of the tougher positions to decide upon. Not many teams have had a consistent right-back this season and I think that Ivanovic got the nod in the PFA team by default. If Vedran Corluka had been fit for the run-in he would have been my choice but Cuellar has been a model of consistency in a Villa back four that has been the basis for Martin O'Neill's side fantastic season.


3. Patrice Evra (Manchester United)

The first time I have agreed with the PFA's selection. Everton's Leighton Baines has had another fine season and came into consideration and Ashley Cole had another great season when he was fit. But the world-class Evra gets my selection. Evra has been the one constant in a United back four that has been plagued with injuries and he has solidified his claims to be the best left-back in the world.


4. Richard Dunne (Aston Villa)

Another selection that agrees with the PFA team. Dunne, like Cuellar, has been a rock at the back for Villa. The huge Irishman has had another brilliant season in the Premier League and formed the best centre-half pairing in the league this year.


5. Michael Dawson (Tottenham Hotspur)

Less fashionable centre-halves Roger Johnson of Birmingham and Jody Craddock of Wolves came into consideration but Dawson has been brilliant at the back for Champion's League bound Spurs. The added pressure of having his partner in teh middle change nearly every game has not made it easy for Dawson but the former Notts Forest man has been awesome this year and should go to the World Cup.


6. Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

How someone can score 20 goals from midfield and not get into the team of the year is a disgrace in my eyes. Darren Fletcher was the selection ahead of Lampard and as consistent as Fletcher was, he hasn't been as good as Lampard.


7. James Milner (Aston Villa)

The winner of this year's young player of the year has finally made the progression that so many pundits felt he would. Employed in the centre of Villa's midfield, Milner has been a revelation this year. With seven goals and 12 assists from the centre of midfield, Milner seems to have assured himself a place in England's world cup squad.


8. Francesc Fabregas (Arsenal)

Oh how different the title race may have been if the Spanish magician was fit for the entire season? Unfortunately for Arsenal fans he wasn't but he still lit up the Premier League with 15 goals and 15 assists in a brilliant season that could end up with a world cup winner's medal.


9. Didier Drogba (Chelsea)

The two strikers pick themselves really. Drogba has once again terrorised defences all year and has been a great leader in a team that has had its struggles off the field. The Ivorian has scored 26 goals this season and has coupled that with an impressive 13 assists.


10. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

There is nothing that can be said about Rooney's season that hasn't been said already. The former Everton man has just simply been awesome this year and England fans will pray that he can stay fit this summer. Honourable mentions go to Darren Bent for his fantastic year at West Ham and Kevin Doyle for the class and hard-work he brought to Wolves.


11. Florent Malouda (Chelsea)

Can anyone tell me how the player's player of the year for the champion's elect didn't make it into the team of the year? Malouda has really come of age in the Chelsea team this year. The Frenchman has coupled 12 goals with 8 assists and has brought a threat out wide that Chelsea have missed since Messrs Duff and Robben terrorised defences. Malouda brilliant play has brought a better balance to Chelsea's play this season.

Torres to Leave Liverpool? Not For Another English Club

According to a plethora of reports in the daily newspapers star striker Fernando Torres is set to leave Liverpool this summer after a lacklustre year for the Merseyside team.

Torres, a life-long Liverpool fan, has cut a very frustrated figure at times this season. This has been due mostly to some of his team-mates failings and the very average look to his side's squad (Kyrgiakos and Lucas are hardly going to stroll into anyone's world eleven). However, it never seemed that the gifted Spaniard would leave the club he only joined three years ago this summer.

The bad news for Liverpool fans is that a move for Torres away from Anfield does seem to be inevitable, but it would be unlikely that he would join another English team. Recently Torres has admitted that the physical nature of the English game will drive away at some point, so despite all the reports linking him with a £70 million move to Chelsea, it probably won't happen.

Concern about Torres' intentions have been further complicated by claims in the past week that the striker may have lost faith in Rafa Benitez.

Following the suggestion made by The Daily Mirror that 'Torres is no longer an admirer of Benitez', The Sun reports this morning that 'Torres' relationship with the manager has cooled to such an extent there is now more chance of him staying if Benitez goes'.

The report in the Mirror could be a best case scenario for some 'pool fans - Rafa goes; Nando stays, but for some the idea that they can't hold on to their manager and/or best player must leave them sweating.

If Torres goes, who in the Liverpool team can get goals like these consistently, David Ngog? Nah didn't think so either.

Where Will Jose be next year?

Jose Mourinho is regarded by many as the best coach in world football at the moment. The charismatic Inter manager has polarised the oublic since he hit the the big time when he won the Champion's League with Porto.

Mourinho's latest acheivement was the aggregate defeat of Spanish giants Barcelona in this year's semi-final. Mourinho described the win as "the most beautiful defeat of his life."

Despite his success at the Milan club, Morinho looks set to leave after publically stating his unhappiness in Italy.

So where will the self proclaimed "special one" end up next year? Well the clear favourites seem to be Real Madrid. The Spanish giants look set to fire Manuel Pellegrini after only one season in charge of the team and Mourinho appears to be top of their wish-list to replace him.

Of course, Mourinho has stated that he would love to return to manage in England and Liverpool or Manchester United would seem the likely landing spots. However, if the shake-up continues at Eastlands, Mourinho could find himself as the new Manchester City boss. It would appeal to Jose as he would have the money required to build a squad to compete for the title.

McCarthy rules out Celtic

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has ruled himself out of the running for the vacant managerial job at Celtic.

A former Celtic player, McCarthy has distanced himself from the job, saying he wants to continue at Wolves after keeping the Molineux side in the Premier League.

The 51 year-old says that he would be interested in taking the job, just some time in the future.

McCarthy told the Daily Express: "I'm happy at Wolves right now and looking forward to another season in the Premier League.

"The job is not one for me right now, but I couldn't rule it out in the future as I loved my time at the club."

Craig Levein and Neil Lennon remain the bookies favourites to get the job, with Paul L ambert and Mark Hughes the next closest.

Irish squad shows development of league football in Ireland

Giovanni Trappatoni's latest training squad shows just how far the Irish league has progressed.

The squad of 23 (now 22 because Stephen Ward has pulled out due to a knee operation) has been named to get inexperienced players accustomed to life with the senior squad. Not all the players named will be in the squad for teh upcoming friendlies against Paraguay and Algeria because the more senior members will join the squad at a later date.

There were a few surprise selections in the squad, Paul Green the biggest surprise, but there were also long awaited call-ups for others like Ward and Keith Fahey.

First international call-ups are not the only thing that Fahey and Ward share. Both players were playing here in Ireland in recent years and since their moves across the pond have excelled. As well as Fahey and Ward, former Eircom League stars Shane Long and Ipswich keeper Brian Murphy as included in the training squad.

The inclusion of the former League of Ireland players is a sign of just how far the league has come. The standard is only getting better still with more and more players getting moves to England from the Airtricity League. Not only that, but players are now starting to stay in Ireland for longer because the realisation is that they can stay in Ireland and continue their education instead of going over to England very young and potentially battling home-sickness. The Airtricity league will continue to get better and draw in more crowds and credit must be given to the FAI for the hard work that has seen the league become relevant once again.

England MUST take Ledley King to the world cup

Spurs captain Ledley has always been regarded as one of the best centre-halves in England. The problem for King has been the long list of injuries that have plagued his career. King's career has been very similar to that of the Irish legend Paul McGrath. Both players were unable to train for long stretches in the days leading up to matches. King has battled chronic knee problems that have often left the big defender not training before matches. However, like McGrath before him, when King does play he tends to be man of the match or at least a contender. This season has been no different for King. There was lingering talk of him retiring at the start of the season but he has played in an impressive 18 games this season.

When you look at the England squad leading up to the world cup, the three centre halves that are definitely going are Ferdinand & Terry, the starting combination, and Matthew Upson as the alternative. Having Upson as the first back-up should frighten England fans because his form has been off this year. The contenders for the fourth spot seem to be King, Michael Dawson, Gary Cahill, Ryan Shawcross, Phil Jagielka and maybe even Sol Campbell. When you look at that list, the form of all the players is good but none can come close to Campbell and King in terms of pedigree. Personally, I think a few players listed above are potentially regulars for England. However, this summer I think Capello can't look further than King for a back-up.

When these big tournaments come around you need a player of real quality to step in and cover your first-choice players. The potential that Terry and/or Ferdinand could pick up and injury is quite high because both are carrying knocks for most of the season. For those reasons and because of his undoubted quality, King should be brought to step in if required.

10 favourite goals - off the top of my head

The following is a list of ten of my favourite goals. Obviously some of the choices are here because of pure favouritism. Also, I've avoided making the list definitive because other goals could, and let's face it will, pop into my head after, anyway enjoy:




Steven Gerrard (Liverpool vs West Ham, 2006)

A superb strike from a superb player (this year not included). Just when one of the biggest upsets in the final of the FA Cup, up steps Gerrard in the 92nd minute with a wonder strike from all of 30 yards.



Esteben Cambiasso (Argentina vs Serbia, 2006)

Simply put, one of the greatest team goal I have ever seen. A free-flowing move that lasts nearly 30 passes, highlighting the fantastic movement off the ball by the Argentine team and the comfort in possession of the ball. Cambiasso and Javier Mascherano are key men in the move; the holding midfield players touch the ball several times in the move and Cambiasso gets on the end of a marvellous move.



Lionel Messi (Barcelona vs Getafe, 2007)

One of the finest moments of the little magician's career so far. Messi picks the ball up in his own half and begins to rip the Getafe defence apart. Messi rounds four hapless defenders, goes past the keeper with consummate ease and then slots the ball home on his supposed weak foot. The link accompanying is with Spanish commentary because it just seems that bit more exciting. A fantastic solo goal from the best player on the planet.



Tom Huddlestone (Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City, 2006)

One of my favourite players in the world Tom Huddlestone can actually be seen sprinting here!! The goal comes from a counter-attack by Spurs which sees Dimitar Berbatov (when he was good) spreading the ball to Hossam Ghaly who picks out the on-rushing Huddlestone who shows unbelievable technique to strike a fantastic half-volley from the edge of the box.



Jason Mcateer (Republic of Ireland vs Holland, 2001)

This game will always be remembered as one of the greatest performances from an Irish side. Of course the developing story between Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy would go down in history. Keane was immense on the day and began the move, breaking from midfield and giving a pass to Damien Duff. Duff then in turn opened the play to the on-rushing Finnan who put in a great cross on his bad foot and Mcateer arrived onto the ball to strike a half-volley into the far corner.



Carlos Alberto (Brazil vs Italy, 1970)

The tournament crowned one of the greatest teams to ever play the game as world champions. The final saw this goal seal the victory for the side that contained Pele and Jairzinho and the football they played is still seen as the benchmark for all teams to reach. The inspirational right-back Carlos Alberto gets on the end of an awesome team move and unleashes a fierce drive across the keeper.



Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid vs Bayer Leverkusen, 2002)

The genius known as "Zizou" showed why he was the best player in the world at his peak. In a surprisingly cagey affair, Zidane got the only goal of the game with a marvellous left-footed volley. Roberto Carlos got in behind the Leverkusen back 4 and hooked back a hopeful cross. Waiting on the edge of the box was Zidane, he waited what seemed like an eternity for the ball to drop. When it did, he rifled it past Hans-Jorg Butt.



Diego Maradonna (Argentina vs England, 1986)

Maradonna has tried his best to tarnish his reputation in recent years as arguably the best player of all time. People talk about drugs and baffling managerial decisions now bore than the genius Diego produced on the field. This goal is somewhat over-shadowed by his "hand of God" but this solo run and finish, similar to Messi's, is as Jimmy Magee puts it, different class.



Dennis Bergkamp (Arsenal vs Newcastle United, 2002)

Truth be told the Dutchman could have had several here himself. The genius of Bergkamp is shown here as he takes a pass from Robert Pires and audaciously caresses the ball around Nikos Dabizas and composes himself before finishing with aplomb.



Paolo Di Canio (West Ham United vs Wimbledon, 2000)

The final goal on my list is probably the most outrageous, scored by probably the most outrageous player in Premier League history. Trevor Sinclair hits a cross-field ball towards Di Canio at the corner of the box, the Italian watches it come down and hits an absolutely sensational scissor kick volley across Neil Sullivan and into the history books as one of the best goals ever scored in the Premier League.

Hughton Guides Newcastle Back To The Promised Land

Newcastle united returned to the Premier League triumphantly hoping to emulate the success of recent promoted teams like Reading, Birmingham City and Wolves. They hope they can avoid becoming the dreaded yo-yo club that promotion rivals West Brom have become.

United's charge to promotion was led by the much-maligned Chris Hughton. For much of his reign Hughton was criticised for his sides tactics and his team selections. Of course on Tyneside thing are never done easily. With his side on the verge of sealing promotion, the story that young striker Andy Carroll and club captain Steven Taylor were involved in a fight that left Carroll's hand broken had been splashed all over the papers. However, Hughton handled the entire situation admirably and never allowed off the field issues to distract his players from bouncing straight back from last year's relegation.

Hughton knew that he had a squad more than capable of dominating the Coca-Cola Championship but also knew that some fresh blood was required to get the best from his team. Key signings Danny Simpson and Mike Williamson helped shore up a defence that shipped little goals this season. The other major impact from Hughton's dealings was re-signing Danish international Peter Lovenkrands after the forward initially turned down the chance to extend his stay with the Magpies. Winger Wayne Routledge helped provide some additional creativity in the latter part of the season.

Hughton's greatest achievement this season was definitely the performances he got from players tat were so woefully out of form when the side were relegated. Stand-out performers Jose Enrique and Fabricio Coloccini looked nothing like the same defenders that defended like an under-eights team chasing after the ball. Enrique in particular had a magnificent season and should be a contender for player of the year. Kevin Nolan has already won a player of the year accolade and the Liverpudlian rediscovered the goal scoring form from midfield that had him talked about in terms of an England call-up a few years ago. Similarly, Jonas Gutierrez showed the kind of form that has led to Argentina coach Diego Maradonna claim the winger to be one of his 4 definites for his world cup squad. Gutierrez finally opened his account on Tyneside and the fans were then soon treated to his infamous Spiderman mask celebration when he scored against Barnsley.

Hughton proved this season that he can clearly work well with talented players who are motivated to play for the cause. With a few new signings next year could see Newcastle re-establish themselves in the top flight.

"Typical Germans" not really to blame Mr. Ferguson

Alex Ferguson's post-match interview after his side crashed out of the Champion's League would lead one to believe that Manchester United were cheated out of progression by Bayern. If you look at the incident that saw Rafael got his second booking it's quite clear that the young Brazilian's stupidity has got him sent off more than anything else. Already on a yellow card, the full-back pulls Ribery back, preventing any forward progress for the Frenchman. In anyone's book, as soft as it may appear, that offence is a yellow card. Yes the Bayern players do make it clear to the referee that the full-back is on a yellow card already but even still, the naivety of Rafael is clear for all to see. Why he so blatantly pulls on Ribery is beyond me, and he was already playing a high-risk game. In the first half after he was booked he was throwing himself into tackles all over the pitch, all of them fair where he won the ball it must be said but if any were mistimed he would have been gone quicker.

The red card was a turning point in the game but it also must be said that Bayern were growing into the game and looking like they could have scored regardless of the sending off. The secodn half was a lot more open than the first and Bayern's dangerous wide men Robben and Ribery, who had both been handled well by the United back four, were coming into the game more and more. The second half also saw Bayern begin to control the midfield. Van Bommel and Schweinsteiger started to pull the strings in the middle of the park. Of course with all the talk surrounding Ferguson's post-match comments, the wonder goal scored by Robben has been somewhat overlooked. The technical ability shown by the Dutch winger to control his volley was nothing short of sensational and was a goal certainly worthy of sending his side through.

Good News For England, Bad News For Man Utd

Reports emerging about the severity of Wayne Rooney's injury will be pleasing to English fans but horrifying for Manchester United fans. The initial reports say that Rooney has sprained an ankle and will be out for two to four weeks. The injury summed a pretty poor night for the league leaders as they fell to a late winner from Croatian international Ivica Ollic.

One of the most impressive things about Man Utd this season has been their strength in depth when player have been out injured. Problems in the back four were well documented in the earlier parts of the season but they managed to pull together and recover. The one constant this season has been the form and availability of Rooney. With such a tight title race and the key game with Chelsea this weekend, the wheels could come off for United. Rooney has been such an important cog in his sides push that could suffer severely without its top marksman.

Of course it is not all doom and gloom on the Rooney front. Fabio Cappello must be delighted because not only will his key man be fit for this summer's world cup, but he will also have had some rest. This injury could turn out to be a blessing in disguise for England's world cup hopes as it will mean that Rooney is fresher than he would have been come the tournament.

Ten under-rated players of the season

Below is a short list of players that have been integral parts of their team's success, or has been the best of a bad bunch on a struggling team. While some of these players won't be in the running for the player of the year awards come the end of the season, a couple of them arguably could be. This list is in no particular order and may contain a few holding midfielders, let's face it, they epitomise under-rated players.




Nigel De Jong (Manchester City)

The energetic Dutch midfielder raised a few eyebrows when he arrived from Hamburg last season. De Jong, however, has silenced the doubters with a string of consistent performances this season and has been in integral part of City's chase for fourth spot. His physicality in City's engine room is a huge factor in providing the likes of Bellamy and Tevez the quality of possession needed to fire their side to the top four.


Alexandre Song (Arsenal)

The young Cameroon international has come on leaps and bounds this season and his involvement in the Gunners free-flowing play is always huge. Song provides the side with the steel that they seemed to miss since Patrick Viera left and his presence is a calming influence in the young side. An old head on young shoulders.


Karl Henry (Wolverhampton Wanderers)

I did warn that this list would include a lot of holding midfielders and the combative Henry deserves recognition for the role he has played in his side's fight to stay up. The club captain has adapted to life in the Premier League impressively and his inspirational play could lead his side to safety. Most of the plaudits in the Wolves side go to the goal-scoring exploits of defender Jody Craddock and the hard-working, honest endeavour of striker Kevin Doyle (you would think that should be the other way around) but Henry has played very well this season and could stay in the top division even if his team don't.


Carlos Cuellar (Aston Villa)

The tough Spanish defender had an up and down start to his career in England when he first joined from Scottish side Glasgow Rangers. He did adapt fairly quickly but he didn't start turning in the impressive performances that we have become accustomed to until he moved across to the right full-back berth he has now made his own. Villa's solid back-four does garner headlines, but more often than not those headlines concentrate on Cuellar's partners at the back; messrs Dunne, Collins and Warnock.


Stephen Carr (Birmingham City)

There is a case for any of the Birmingham back four that have done so brilliantly for the team but Carr gets in ahead of his team-mates because of the fact that he retired from football 2 years ago. The former Irish international returned last season to help Alex McGleish's side into the top flight and his play on the right hand side of the Blues' back four has been reminiscent of the player that made PFA team of the year in years gone past.


Aaron Hughes (Fulham)

The Northern Irishman has quietly gone about his business this season that has been such a success for the Cottagers. Hughes has played in every minute of every game this season and is a very important cog in Roy Hodgson's side. Hughes has been played all over the back four but has formed a very solid partnership with the towering Norwegian Brede Hangeland.


Michael Dawson (Tottenham Hotspur)

Dawson's name has not been mentioned as a potential member of England's world cup squad but he has arguably been the most consistent English centre half in the Premier League this year. Dawson has not had it easy this season with the merry-go-round that is the centre half position at Spurs this season. Yes this is due to the struggles of Ledley King and yes he is worth it but it cannot be easy for Dawson playing with a new partner nearly every week and his form has not suffered.


Ji-Sung Park (Manchester United)

Yes I know it's easy to put him in after the weekend but the Korean sums up everything that is so good about Manchester United's squad. Whenever he is in the team his work-rate is second to none. Park has been out of the team this season with serious injuries but could be a vital cog in his sides hunt for another title.


Marc Wilson (Portsmouth)

Surprising to see a Portsmouth player on this list but the young Irish centre half has acquitted himself rather well in his first full season in top-flight football. Portsmouth are doomed to life in the Championship and I think all football fans hope that they can get themselves out this predicament. Perhaps if the people running the club showed as much grit and determination as Wilson has in the club's tough season, things may be a little better for the south coast club.


Charles N'Zogbia (Wigan Athletic)

Along with Hugo Rodallega, N'Zogbia has been a revelation for the most inconsistent team ever in the Premier League. N'Zogbia's talent was never in question at any stage in his career at Newcastle before and at Wigan now, although his mindset was. Wigan should survive this season and N'Zogbia's creativity has been a huge part of that. Basically when N'Zogbia plays well, so do Wigan. N'Zogbia probably won't be at Wigan next year, and boy will the Lancashire side miss him.

Messi's Magic Show Proves He's The Best

Last night's wonder show from Barcelona and Argentina wizard Lionel Messi proved that he really has the world at his feet. The master-class produced by the diminutive Messi was simply breath-taking as he inspired his side past Stuttgart into the quarter-finals of this year's Champions League.

Messi had a role in the first two goals in the Spanish sides 4-0 win on the night. Messi grabbed an excellent opener after only 12 minutes and had a hand in setting up Pedro for his sides' second. Messi got his name on the score-sheet for the second time on the hour, bringing his tally in the last four games to eight goals, before Bojan put the icing on the cake for the Catalan giants.

Last night's performance came hot on the heels after a hat-trick againts Valencia in the league at the weekend in another awesome display from the Argentine. Barcelona continue to fight for both La Liga and the Champions League and if Messi continues the form he has shown in his last few outings few would bet against them retaining both titles this season.

In a world cup year, Argentina must feel that even with the insane Diego Maradonna in charge, talent like Messi can inspire his nation to world cup glory. If Messi can continue this form he will rightly be known as the greatest player o the planet.

Michael Owen is Done for the Season - but he's "not" injury prone

If Michael Owen does leave Man Utd at the season - let's face it, he will - his search for a new team may require a new dossier to be sent out. When Owen left Newcastle last summer, his agent sent out a now infamous document outlining Owen's abilities and trying to put an end to the notion that he is injury prone. Next season's dossier cannot avoid the fact that Owen is now out for the rest of the season with the hamstring injury he picked up in the Carling Cup final.



It is sad to see a player with such undoubted ability struggle with injuries as much as Owen has. However, Owen has struggled with injuries his entire career. Ever since he first burst onto the scene at Liverpool, Owen's hamstrings caused him problems early on in his illustrious goal-scoring career at Anfield. An apparent fall-out with Rafael Benitez led to Owen leaving England for the little England being built in Madrid. (Real already had David Beckham and signed Jonathan Woodgate that summer too). Owen didn't get enough playing time in Spain so Tyneside came a calling. Newcastle paid Owen massive wages to fire them into Europe. Unfortunately, if a spell at any club underline the problems Owen had, it was his time at Newcastle. He spent more time on the physio table than the pitch and the fans began to grow weary of him. Owen's record when played at Newcastle was impressive for someone playing in a team that was struggling, 26 goals in 71 games. The problem was he wasn't on the pitch enough to justify the £16million transfer fee. He left last season to join Man Utd on a free transfer and struggled to get into the team until this injury ruled him out.



Regrettably, Owen's career looks like it will become a cautionary tale for any aspiring young footballer about playing too much too soon. When England lost to Argentina in the 1998 World Cup, Owen looked set to become one of the best players of his generation, now he looks like he has become one of the best "what could have been" players of his generation.

Weekend Preview

This week only sees five games played this weekend in the Premier League because of the F.A. cup fixtures. It is a big weekend for teams involved in the relegation dog-fight, with five of the bottom six clubs all in action.






Arsenal vs Burnley

Burnley are awful away from home, fact. They will not make a dramatic recovery this weekend and pull off a sensational upset. Their form in general has been poor of late and will at best try to frustrate their hosts for long periods. Arsenal showed their title-winning credentials in last week's come from behind away win. What happened to Aaron Ramsey was awful but Arsene "I didn't see it" Wenger must get his side to forget as best they can to continue their form and push for the title.

Prediction: Wenger's men win at a canter, the only question is by how many? 4-0


West Ham United vs Bolton Wanderers

Both sides have shown enough recently to suggest they have enough to pull themselves away from relegation. West Ham were plugging away while their squad was wearing thin, but clever signings in January and return to fitness of key players has breathed new life into the team. The Hammers home form is key to their survival and should see them press on to finish in mid-table. Bolton have convinced me under Owen Coyle that they be ok also. Coyle took his time to instill his philosophy on the squad but it seems to be paying off.

Prediction: Both teams are showing form lately but West Ham shade a close game. 2-0


Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Manchester United

Mick McCarthy's high profile decision to field a weakened team away to United resulted in a loss and a ridiculous fine. This time around McCarthy will field a full team that probably deserved something out of their last home game to Chelsea. Alex Ferguson's charges come in off the back of their Carling Cup success will fancy their chances against the relegation battlers. Wolves defensive struggles will more than likely continue against one of the most in-form players in the world, Wayne Rooney.

Prediction: A brave Wolves side can't handle the Red Devils as Ferguson's side coast to victory. 0-3


Everton vs Hull City

Goodison Park is a very difficult place to get a result. Even when the Toffees are off form, not many teams make the trip to Merseyside and get a result. David Moyes' men will look to recover from their loss in Europe and put in a similar performance to the one that saw them beat Man Utd. Things are not looking good for Phil Brown's side. They have been struggling for form and will hope that new signing Amr Zaki and the returning Jimmy Bullard can inspire them to get the results needed to survive. Goals are a premium for the Tigers and will hope that Zaki can discover the goal scoring touch he had in his early days at Wigan.

Prediction: The Tigers as always put on a spirited display but can't handle a talented Everton side. 3-0


Wigan Athletic vs Liverpool

The awful pitch at the DW stadium has been re-laid and should make for some better football than was witnessed during Wigan's last home game. Wigan have been struggling for form and signs are not looking good for Roberto Martinez' side. They seem to have everything going against them, last week's dubious penalty for Birmingham an example, and now they face a Liverpool that has Fernando Torres coming back to fitness and form. The Spaniard's sensational goal scoring form will lift the Reds who have struggled for goals this year.

Prediction: Liverpool begin to find their form as Torres and Gerrard start to form the partnership that was so successful last year. 0-2

Crazy Jens hasn't lost it - and it's great to see

Tuesday night's Champions League clash between Stuttgart and Barcelona proved several things to be true;

1) Barcelona have not been hitting top form lately.

2) Christian Gross IS a decent manager despite his best efforts to prove otherwise at Spurs.

And finally,

3) Jens Lehmann is not only still a very good goalkeeper, but he is still as crazy as ever.

Lehmann became infamous for his eccentric behaviour during his spell at Arsenal. While his talent and ability was never in question, his mentality certainly was. There were so many occasions in Premier League games that you see Jens going mental at his back four or remonstrating with referees whenever a player came anywhere near him at corners. It would seem that Arsenal could do with the German's abilities between the sticks but unfortunately for the Gunners (and the rest of the Premier League) the Bundesliga now enjoys Lehmann's wild antics.

Like a fine wine, mad Jens' antics seem to get better with age. This season's Champions League has seen two moments of pure Lehmann magic. His kung-fu kick across Barcelona captain Carles Puyol during the week was unnecessary, but isn't that we love Lehmann, he performs the unnecessary regularly and hilariously. The little half slap on the head afterwards is purely the icing on the cake. Follow this link to see Lehmann at his best.

Earlier in the competition, however, was witness to probably mad Jens' greatest ever moment. During his sides group match with Romanian side Unirea Urziceni, nature called for Jens but he just couldn't hold it in much longer and duly leapt over the advertising board behind his goal and urinated behind the advertising board, returning to the action on the pitch. Follow this link for another moment of magic from Jens.

Weekend Preview Part 2

Part two of my weekend preview takes a look at the games being played on Sunday. The standout fixture is one between 4th and 5th place Manchester City and Liverpool, the result could go a long way to decide who wins the coveted final
Champion's League place.




Blackburn Rovers vs Bolton Wanderers

This games sees Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce taking on his former club in a Lancashire derby. The match will also showcase an intriguing clash of style between Allardyce's long ball ethos and his incumbent Owen Coyle's more footballing style. Rovers are showing good form, winning three of their last five, and Bolton still finding their feet under Coyle.

Prediction: Allardyce will be eager to get one up on his former employers and Bolton's lack of a goal threat could be the difference. 1-0


Aston Villa vs Burnley

Aston Villa come into this game finding some form again after a poor run which saw them win one game in seven and with the Carling Cup final next week. One cause for concern for Martin O'Neill will be his side's lack of goals. Brian Law's side know that their survival doesn't depend on performances away from Turf Moor, because they do struggle away from home.

Prediction: Villa have too much for Burnley as the Clarets struggles on the road continue. 3-1


Fulham vs Birmingham City

Craven Cottage plays host to the dark horse for game of the weekend. Both sides play an entertaining brand of football and look to be safe at this stage of the season. Birmingham will look to bring an end to the min-blip they're going through. Fulham themselves seem to have gotten over their blip and the form of Damien Duff has been key to the Cottagers revival.

Prediction: Fulham just see off the Blues in an entertaining game. 3-2


Manchester City vs Liverpool

Potentially the game that could decide the final Champions League place. If City were to win it would give them a four point advantage over Liverpool with a game in hand. Coming off a draw away to Stoke, and reports of player-manager bust ups, Roberto Mancini will expect a performance from his side. Liverpool themselves are coming off a poor performance in the Europa Cup. If Rafa Benitez attacks City's shaky defence they could come away with something, or get torn apart on the counter-attack.

Prediction: City are frustrated for long periods by the visitors but go one step closer to Champion's League football. 2-1


Wigan Athletic vs Tottenham Hotspur

The final game of the weekend sees the inconsistent Wigan play host to a Spurs side lacking in confidence after losing away to Wolves. The reverse of this fixture saw Wigan take a 9-1 thumping at White Hart Lane, Jermain Defoe grabbing five. Spurs have missed Aaron Lennon desperately and could find the quagmire of a pitch at the DW stadium tough to adapt to. Wigan will look to play maker Charles N'Zogbia to try and inspire them to a victory.

Prediction: The state of the DW Stadium pitch sees a dull game end in a draw. 1-1

Weekend Preview Part 1

This weekend's action in the Barclays Premier League could have the potential to be very pivotal in every area of the league table. Here's a brief preview of the games along with predictions for each game.




Everton vs Man. Utd

The weekend kicks off with Everton hosting league leaders Manchester United and welcoming back old boy Wayne Rooney. The in-form striker will grab all the headlines returning to Goodison. Victory for the champions will see them go top if only for a while with Chelsea playing at 3pm. The return to match sharpness of play maker Mikel Arteta will be key to Everton's chances as they look to continue a great run of one loss in 11 games (including a home win against Chelsea) but key men Marouane Fellaini and Tim Cahill have both been ruled out..

Prediction: Rooney the difference maker again in a close, hard-fought win for United. 1-2


Arsenal vs Sunderland

Arsenal return to domestic action with what should be an easy home win against a struggling Sunderland side. However, even with the Black Cats struggles (no wins in 12 games) they can gain some confidence that no matter who is in goal for Arsenal they can exploit a lack of confidence and form. Arsenal should be able to impose themselves against a team that has looked lost recently.

Prediction: Arsenal to continue Sunderland's poor form in a comfortable win. 3-0


West Ham Utd vs Hull City

A six-pointer if ever there was one. Only goal difference keeps West Ham above Hull as 15th hosts 17th. Both sides will be desperate for a win to get some daylight above the relegation zone. Confidence is high at Upton Park and the return of key man Carlton Cole will be massive. Hull have begun to slide down the league worryingly and need a result to stop the rut.

Prediction: West Ham's main man Cole continues his return to form as the Hammers have enough to get past a dogged Hull side. 2-0


Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Chelsea

Wolves are coming off a good home win over Spurs and will field a full team against the title chasers and will be somewhat galvanised after the league imposed a ridiculous fine on the Black Country team. Chelsea are coming into the game fresh having not played midweek and have far too much for Wolves.

Prediction: Wolves are unable to deal with Chelsea, whose class shines through. 0-3


Portsmouth vs Stoke City

Another week of turmoil for the South coast team and another huge game in their fight for survival. Avram Grant's side are now in a must-win scenario every week and play host to a Stoke side short on goals away from the Britannia (one goal in six away games) but high in confidence after draw with Manchester City, which they were unlucky to win. Still, Pompey's us against the world attitude will see them determined to get a result. Don't expect it to be a game for the purists.

Prediction: A battle in the Fratton Park trenches sees both sides come away with something and Stoke continue to be unbeaten in 2010. 1-1