As we moved into the month of August, fans of the English Premier League are starting to come out from their hibernation mode.
It is because August is when the new season will begin.
The curtain raiser is the FA Charity Shield on 7th August between Champions Leicester City and FA Cup Winner Manchester United.
So how is your team going to perform in the coming season? Let us make our prediction for the top 10.
Manchester City
Serial winner Pep Guardiola has taken over and has laid down his rules. With another four new signings expected to be completed soon, Manchester City will take some stopping. Our prediction: 1st
Manchester United
Like cross-town rival, Manchester United has appointed a serial winner by the name of Jose Mourinho. And along with him, came additions in the form of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. The latter two smells goals and it will be fun time at Old Trafford. Our prediction: 2nd
Chelsea
With Antonio Conte at helm and a few additions later, the self-destruction will not happen again. Should be good enough to challenge for the title but will fall just short. Our prediction: 3rd
Arsenal
There are obvious flaw in the team and Arsene Wenger seems to have a difficult time fixing it. A more prolific striker and a dominating central back is what they need to really challenge for the title. Until he can find them, Champions League spot is what they will be fighting for. Our prediction: 4th
Tottenham
Always the bridemaid of the bridemaid, it looks like another similar ending for Tottenham. While they do possess a good squad, they lack that extra bit of quality to push through. Our prediction: 5th
Liverpool
Jurgen Klopp first full season in charge but the Reds does not the necessary quality to finally end their title drought. Their possible piece of silverware should come in the form of a cup competition. Our prediction: 6th
West Ham
One of the more exciting teams to watch, the Hammers will be pushing hard for one of the Europa League spot. Other than that, there is nothing much to look forward to. Our prediction: 7th
Southampton
While the heady days in the top four is gone, Southampton has done very well despite having to rebuild their squad every season. European spot will be too much an ask. Our prediction: 8th
Everton
A new owner and manager, this will be a transitional period for the Toffees. They have done well on shoestring budget previously and in new owner, Farhad Moshiri, the blue side of Mersey might not have to work under that constraint anymore. How they will fare depends much on their ability to retain players like Lukaku and Stones. Our prediction: 9th
Leicester
Two of their best players last season, N'Golo Kante has left and Riyad Mahrez has refused to commit his future to the club. Even if they are still around, repeating their feat is unlikely. There is a niggling feeling that the foxes will suffer the "the second season" syndrome. Our prediction: 10th
Showing posts with label Liverpool. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Liverpool. Show all posts
Tuesday, 2 August 2016
Wednesday, 6 July 2016
Gathering of the master tacticians
While the best players like Messi and Ronaldo is plying their trade in the La Liga, the coming Premier League season will see some of the best tacticians fighting it out.
Pep Guardiola and Antonio Conte will take charge of Manchester City and Chelsea respectively while Jose Mourinho has return to the English game, this time, in charge of Manchester United.
The new season will also be Jurgen Klopp's first after he took over Liverpool in midway in the recently concluded season.
Add these names to the likes of Arsene Wenger, Claudio Ranieri and Mauricio Pochettino, we are looking at almost the whose who in the game.
How will they fare and who were come up on top? Statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Pep Guardiola - Bayern Munich (last season average rating: 7.13)
From Barcelona to Bayern Munich, it has been silverwares wherever Pep choose to be.
Backed by the richest club owner in the world, Pep and his Manchester City side will take some stopping.
Do not be surprise if they take a step further in the Champions League.
Antonio Conte - Italy
Italy has done reasonably well in Euro 2016 despite going out against World champions Germany, via a penalty shootout.
Much of the credit should go to Conte who got his tactics right and played to Italy's strength.
If there is one person who can get Chelsea clicking again, it will be the Italian.
Jose Mourinho - Manchester United
Chelsea's failure to defend their title won in 2015 was down to the dressing room unrest between Mourinho and the players. This resulted in the Portuguese getting the sacked.
A winner almost everywhere he goes, the Red Devils' fan will be expecting nothing less than the silverware.
The rebuilding has began and from the purchases made thus far, it does seems like Manchester United has what it takes to return to their glory days.
Jurgen Klopp - Liverpool (last season average rating: 6.91)
This will be the German first full season in charge of Liverpool. He have added some new additions and no doubt will be looking to impose his high pressing game.
If he can do it successfully and with another few quality signings, the team will be a real threat. But till then, top four should be their target.
Arsene Wenger - Arsenal (last season average rating: 7.08)
In a season that promise so much, the Gunners got hit with an ever-so familiar spring collapse that derailed their title charge.
Beside being rather one-dimensional in their play, Wenger has failed to address the weakness of his squad. Very much will depends on what Wenger does in the transfer market.
It seems unlikely that the trend will change and the wait for the title will stretch on.
Claudio Ranieri - Leicester City (last season average rating: 7.06)
The Italian did the impossible last season when he led Leicester to glory. Deploying a counter-attack strategy, the Foxes sweep aside all opponents enroute to the Premier League title.
However, with the extra commitments in the form of the Champions League, there is fear that the team might not have the resources compete in both fronts.
They created a fairy tale and the tale will end in the new season.
Mauricio Pochettino - Tottenham (last season average rating: 7.01)
Tottenham pushed Leicester City hard for the title last season only to suffer their usual end of the season collapse.
While the Lilywhites provided some great entertainment, expecting them to close the gap will be asking too much.
Pep Guardiola and Antonio Conte will take charge of Manchester City and Chelsea respectively while Jose Mourinho has return to the English game, this time, in charge of Manchester United.
The new season will also be Jurgen Klopp's first after he took over Liverpool in midway in the recently concluded season.
Add these names to the likes of Arsene Wenger, Claudio Ranieri and Mauricio Pochettino, we are looking at almost the whose who in the game.
How will they fare and who were come up on top? Statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Pep Guardiola - Bayern Munich (last season average rating: 7.13)
From Barcelona to Bayern Munich, it has been silverwares wherever Pep choose to be.
Backed by the richest club owner in the world, Pep and his Manchester City side will take some stopping.
Do not be surprise if they take a step further in the Champions League.
Antonio Conte - Italy
Italy has done reasonably well in Euro 2016 despite going out against World champions Germany, via a penalty shootout.
Much of the credit should go to Conte who got his tactics right and played to Italy's strength.
If there is one person who can get Chelsea clicking again, it will be the Italian.
Jose Mourinho - Manchester United
Chelsea's failure to defend their title won in 2015 was down to the dressing room unrest between Mourinho and the players. This resulted in the Portuguese getting the sacked.
A winner almost everywhere he goes, the Red Devils' fan will be expecting nothing less than the silverware.
The rebuilding has began and from the purchases made thus far, it does seems like Manchester United has what it takes to return to their glory days.
Jurgen Klopp - Liverpool (last season average rating: 6.91)
This will be the German first full season in charge of Liverpool. He have added some new additions and no doubt will be looking to impose his high pressing game.
If he can do it successfully and with another few quality signings, the team will be a real threat. But till then, top four should be their target.
Arsene Wenger - Arsenal (last season average rating: 7.08)
In a season that promise so much, the Gunners got hit with an ever-so familiar spring collapse that derailed their title charge.
Beside being rather one-dimensional in their play, Wenger has failed to address the weakness of his squad. Very much will depends on what Wenger does in the transfer market.
It seems unlikely that the trend will change and the wait for the title will stretch on.
Claudio Ranieri - Leicester City (last season average rating: 7.06)
The Italian did the impossible last season when he led Leicester to glory. Deploying a counter-attack strategy, the Foxes sweep aside all opponents enroute to the Premier League title.
However, with the extra commitments in the form of the Champions League, there is fear that the team might not have the resources compete in both fronts.
They created a fairy tale and the tale will end in the new season.
Mauricio Pochettino - Tottenham (last season average rating: 7.01)
Tottenham pushed Leicester City hard for the title last season only to suffer their usual end of the season collapse.
While the Lilywhites provided some great entertainment, expecting them to close the gap will be asking too much.
Tuesday, 16 February 2016
Heroics return for double strikers
Heroics return for double strikers
Wahbi Khazri put relegation threatened side, Sunderland, ahead only for Anthony Martial to level the score for Manchester United. But a late own goal by David De Gea condemned the Red Devils to another defeat.
Giannelli Imbula Wanga, Ibrahim Afellay and Joselu gave Stoke City a 3-0 lead at Dean Court while Matt Ritchie scored a consolation goal for Bournemouth.
Troy Deeney scored from the penalty spot to put Watford ahead but Emmanuel Adebayor equalised for Crystal Palace on the stroke of half time. Troy Deeney then scored his second of the match and Palace's hopes for rescuing a point were dashed when Pape Ndiaye Souare got himself sent off.
Jose Salomon Rondon scored the only goal of the game to give West Brom a 1-0 away victory over Everton.
Robert Brady and Wesley Hoolahan gave Norwich a 2-0 lead over West Ham, but Dimitri Payet pulled a goal back. The comeback was completed three minutes later when Mark Noble made it 2-2.
A second-half goal from Shane Long was enough for Southampton as they left the Liberty Stadium with all three points.
Gus Hiddink unbeaten run as Chelsea's manager continues as the Blues defeated Newcastle 5-1. Diego Costa opened the scoring and Pedro added a second. Willian then made it 3-0 before Pedro scored his second. Bertrand Traore completed the rout with the fifth and Andros Townsend scored a consolation goal for away side.
Jamie Vardy scored a debatable penalty on the stroke of half time. Theo Walcott equalised for Arsenal after Leicester's Danny Simpson got himself sent-off for two yellow cards offences. Danny Welback, on his first game back after a 10 months laid off, headed home the winner with virtually the last kick of the game.
Liverpool got their biggest win of the season at cellar club Aston Villa. Daniel Sturridge, in his first start in two months, opened the floodgate and James Milner added the second. Further goals from Emre Can, Divock Origi, Nathaniel Clyne and Kolo Toure complete a miserable day for the Villans.
In another top of the table clash, Tottenham took the lead through a Harry Kane's controversial penalty. Kelechi Iheanacho levelled the score for Manchester City but Christian Eriksen scored the winning goal after a delightful pass from Lamela.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal: 7.07
Leicester: 7.04
Tottenham: 7.02
Man City: 6.99
Everton: 6.96
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 7.90
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal): 7.79
Dimitri Payet (West Ham): 7.67
Mousa Dembele (Tottenham): 7.66
Virgil van Dijk (Southampton): 7.62
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Wahbi Khazri put relegation threatened side, Sunderland, ahead only for Anthony Martial to level the score for Manchester United. But a late own goal by David De Gea condemned the Red Devils to another defeat.
Giannelli Imbula Wanga, Ibrahim Afellay and Joselu gave Stoke City a 3-0 lead at Dean Court while Matt Ritchie scored a consolation goal for Bournemouth.
Troy Deeney scored from the penalty spot to put Watford ahead but Emmanuel Adebayor equalised for Crystal Palace on the stroke of half time. Troy Deeney then scored his second of the match and Palace's hopes for rescuing a point were dashed when Pape Ndiaye Souare got himself sent off.
Jose Salomon Rondon scored the only goal of the game to give West Brom a 1-0 away victory over Everton.
Robert Brady and Wesley Hoolahan gave Norwich a 2-0 lead over West Ham, but Dimitri Payet pulled a goal back. The comeback was completed three minutes later when Mark Noble made it 2-2.
A second-half goal from Shane Long was enough for Southampton as they left the Liberty Stadium with all three points.
Gus Hiddink unbeaten run as Chelsea's manager continues as the Blues defeated Newcastle 5-1. Diego Costa opened the scoring and Pedro added a second. Willian then made it 3-0 before Pedro scored his second. Bertrand Traore completed the rout with the fifth and Andros Townsend scored a consolation goal for away side.
Jamie Vardy scored a debatable penalty on the stroke of half time. Theo Walcott equalised for Arsenal after Leicester's Danny Simpson got himself sent-off for two yellow cards offences. Danny Welback, on his first game back after a 10 months laid off, headed home the winner with virtually the last kick of the game.
Liverpool got their biggest win of the season at cellar club Aston Villa. Daniel Sturridge, in his first start in two months, opened the floodgate and James Milner added the second. Further goals from Emre Can, Divock Origi, Nathaniel Clyne and Kolo Toure complete a miserable day for the Villans.
In another top of the table clash, Tottenham took the lead through a Harry Kane's controversial penalty. Kelechi Iheanacho levelled the score for Manchester City but Christian Eriksen scored the winning goal after a delightful pass from Lamela.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal: 7.07
Leicester: 7.04
Tottenham: 7.02
Man City: 6.99
Everton: 6.96
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 7.90
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal): 7.79
Dimitri Payet (West Ham): 7.67
Mousa Dembele (Tottenham): 7.66
Virgil van Dijk (Southampton): 7.62
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Thursday, 21 January 2016
Stars aligning for Arsenal
Arsenal must be dreading their trip to the Britannia Stadium to face Stoke City. So often the bogey team for Arsenal, they must be glad to come away from the fixture with a point.
Some will say this is just another game, unlike the local derbies or top of the table clash. But is this really so? Not, according to the fortune tellers among the fans.
They will look into the history books and point out a fact. In the past 5 seasons, no eventual league champion has lost at the Britannia Stadium.
Looking at the likely contenders for the title this season, Stoke has beaten both Manchester clubs while Tottenham has yet to visit Stoke. Only Arsenal and Leicester has gone and came away without suffering a defeat. If we are to push further, Liverpool has recorded a win.
The historians in them went further. Out of the five seasons, four teams who led the table on New Year's Day remain in top spot at the end of the season. And the club who is leading the pack on New Year's Day, Arsenal.
Putting both "facts" together, the fortune telling instinct kicks in and they predicted that the Gunners will be crowned champions come May. It is written in the stars, they says.
How far is their prediction from the reality? Let us look at the statistic provided by WhoScored.com.
With an overall rating of 7.07, Arsenal are the top in terms of performance points, followed closely by Leicester with a score of 7.02.
Arsenal under Wenger's reign is known for their possession and passing game. While they have somewhat change their tactics this season, they are still among the top of the pile with 55.8% possession and 84.3% successful passes.
One surprising stats is the number of goals from counter-attack. Speed is essential during a counter attack and with a forward line consisting of Sanchez, Walcott, Chamberlain and aided by Bellerin raiding down the right flank, they have plenty of it. How they cannot take advantage of it is anyone's guess.
Topping almost in all categories, it does looks like the London club is in for a real shout. The fortune tellers could be right afterall.
But there is one fact they missed out. The only team which was at the top on New Year's Day and failed to win the title, ARSENAL.
Do you think Arsenal will end their 12 years wait for the league title?
Some will say this is just another game, unlike the local derbies or top of the table clash. But is this really so? Not, according to the fortune tellers among the fans.
They will look into the history books and point out a fact. In the past 5 seasons, no eventual league champion has lost at the Britannia Stadium.
Looking at the likely contenders for the title this season, Stoke has beaten both Manchester clubs while Tottenham has yet to visit Stoke. Only Arsenal and Leicester has gone and came away without suffering a defeat. If we are to push further, Liverpool has recorded a win.
The historians in them went further. Out of the five seasons, four teams who led the table on New Year's Day remain in top spot at the end of the season. And the club who is leading the pack on New Year's Day, Arsenal.
Putting both "facts" together, the fortune telling instinct kicks in and they predicted that the Gunners will be crowned champions come May. It is written in the stars, they says.
How far is their prediction from the reality? Let us look at the statistic provided by WhoScored.com.
With an overall rating of 7.07, Arsenal are the top in terms of performance points, followed closely by Leicester with a score of 7.02.
Arsenal under Wenger's reign is known for their possession and passing game. While they have somewhat change their tactics this season, they are still among the top of the pile with 55.8% possession and 84.3% successful passes.
One surprising stats is the number of goals from counter-attack. Speed is essential during a counter attack and with a forward line consisting of Sanchez, Walcott, Chamberlain and aided by Bellerin raiding down the right flank, they have plenty of it. How they cannot take advantage of it is anyone's guess.
Topping almost in all categories, it does looks like the London club is in for a real shout. The fortune tellers could be right afterall.
But there is one fact they missed out. The only team which was at the top on New Year's Day and failed to win the title, ARSENAL.
Do you think Arsenal will end their 12 years wait for the league title?
Monday, 28 December 2015
Leicester and Arsenal loses
Bojan Krkic put Stoke ahead and Marko Arnautovic added a superb second to condemn Manchester United to their third consecutive defeat in the Premier League.
Bournemouth and Crystal Palace played out a goal-less draw, a result which maintained the unbeaten run in December for both team.
Diego Costa put Chelsea ahead but Troy Deeney to level the score from the penalty spot. Odion Ighalo then put Watford ahead only for Diego Costa to score his second of the match. Oscar has a chance to put Chelsea back in front but miss from the spot.
Remi Garde's winless run as manager of Aston Villa continues as the Villians were held to a 1-1 draw by West Ham. Aaron Cresswell put the visitor ahead but Jordan Ayew converted his penalty to level things up.
Liverpool ended eicester City's 10 games unbeaten run with a 1-0 victory. Christian Benteke scored the only goal of the game.
Raheem Sterling opened the scoring for Manchester City before goals from Yaya Toure and Wilfried Bony gave the home team a 3-0 half-time lead. Kevin de Bruyne added a fourth. Fabio Borini scored a consolation goal for Sunderland.
Sung-Yueng Ki scored the only goal in the match between Swansea City and West Brom. The result snapped the Swans' 7 games winless streak.
Tottenham defeated Norwich 3-0 with two first half goals from Harry Kane and another by Jonathan Howson in the second period.
A late goal by Tom Cleverley ensure Everton leaves St. James Park with all three points.
Southampton inflicted Arsenal's heaviest defeat of the season. Cuco Martina opened the scoring with a brilliant goal. Shane Long added a second before Jose Miguel Fonte punished the Gunners sloppy defending from a corner. Long rounded off the scoring with his second of the night.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal: 7.09
Leicester: 7.03
Tottenham: 7.01
Man City: 6.99
Everton: 6.92
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 8.26
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal): 7.86
Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 7.69
Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal): 7.68
Dimitri Payet: 7.68
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Bournemouth and Crystal Palace played out a goal-less draw, a result which maintained the unbeaten run in December for both team.
Diego Costa put Chelsea ahead but Troy Deeney to level the score from the penalty spot. Odion Ighalo then put Watford ahead only for Diego Costa to score his second of the match. Oscar has a chance to put Chelsea back in front but miss from the spot.
Remi Garde's winless run as manager of Aston Villa continues as the Villians were held to a 1-1 draw by West Ham. Aaron Cresswell put the visitor ahead but Jordan Ayew converted his penalty to level things up.
Liverpool ended eicester City's 10 games unbeaten run with a 1-0 victory. Christian Benteke scored the only goal of the game.
Raheem Sterling opened the scoring for Manchester City before goals from Yaya Toure and Wilfried Bony gave the home team a 3-0 half-time lead. Kevin de Bruyne added a fourth. Fabio Borini scored a consolation goal for Sunderland.
Sung-Yueng Ki scored the only goal in the match between Swansea City and West Brom. The result snapped the Swans' 7 games winless streak.
Tottenham defeated Norwich 3-0 with two first half goals from Harry Kane and another by Jonathan Howson in the second period.
A late goal by Tom Cleverley ensure Everton leaves St. James Park with all three points.
Southampton inflicted Arsenal's heaviest defeat of the season. Cuco Martina opened the scoring with a brilliant goal. Shane Long added a second before Jose Miguel Fonte punished the Gunners sloppy defending from a corner. Long rounded off the scoring with his second of the night.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal: 7.09
Leicester: 7.03
Tottenham: 7.01
Man City: 6.99
Everton: 6.92
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 8.26
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal): 7.86
Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 7.69
Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal): 7.68
Dimitri Payet: 7.68
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Monday, 7 December 2015
Leicester goes top while Chelsea lost at home again
Marko Arnautovic scored twice within the first 15 minutes to condemn the Manchester City to their second defeat in three games.
Joel Campbell put the host ahead but Olivier Giroud's own goal ensure both teams went into half time on level time. The Frenchman scored on the right end to put Arsenal ahead and Aaron Ramsey ensure the victory.
When Manchester United hosted West Ham, it was the third best home record versus the third best away record. The result was both side cancelling each other out in a 0-0 draw.
Southampton was held to a 1-1 draw at home against Aston Villa. Joleon Lescott put the away team ahead before Oriol Romeu equalised in the second half.
Leicester moved to the top of the table with a 3-0 victory over Swansea City. Riyad Mahrez scored all three goals.
The match between two newly promoted teams saw the home team grabbing all three points. Troy Deeney put the home team ahead and Odion Ighalo added a second in the 90th minute.
FT West Bromwich Albion 1 - 1 Tottenham Hotspur
Spoils were shared between West Brom and Tottenham. Dele Alli put the visitors ahead but were held back when James McClean equalised for the home side.
Chelsea's dreadful season continues as they slumped to another home defeat, their fourth this season. Glenn Murray scored the only goal of the game.
Newcastle grabbed a much needed victory to move above cross-town rival Sunderland in the league table. Martin Skrtel put through his own net before Georginio Wijnaldum confirmed all three points.
Crystal Palace went ahead through Scott Dann before in-form striker, Romelu Lukaku, equalised for the home team.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal : 7.14
Leicester: 7.04
Tottenham: 7
Manchester City: 6.99
Everton: 6.94
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 8.33
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal): 7.86
Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 7.82
Mousa Dembele (Tottenham): 7.72
Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal): 7.68
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Joel Campbell put the host ahead but Olivier Giroud's own goal ensure both teams went into half time on level time. The Frenchman scored on the right end to put Arsenal ahead and Aaron Ramsey ensure the victory.
When Manchester United hosted West Ham, it was the third best home record versus the third best away record. The result was both side cancelling each other out in a 0-0 draw.
Southampton was held to a 1-1 draw at home against Aston Villa. Joleon Lescott put the away team ahead before Oriol Romeu equalised in the second half.
Leicester moved to the top of the table with a 3-0 victory over Swansea City. Riyad Mahrez scored all three goals.
The match between two newly promoted teams saw the home team grabbing all three points. Troy Deeney put the home team ahead and Odion Ighalo added a second in the 90th minute.
FT West Bromwich Albion 1 - 1 Tottenham Hotspur
Spoils were shared between West Brom and Tottenham. Dele Alli put the visitors ahead but were held back when James McClean equalised for the home side.
Chelsea's dreadful season continues as they slumped to another home defeat, their fourth this season. Glenn Murray scored the only goal of the game.
Newcastle grabbed a much needed victory to move above cross-town rival Sunderland in the league table. Martin Skrtel put through his own net before Georginio Wijnaldum confirmed all three points.
Crystal Palace went ahead through Scott Dann before in-form striker, Romelu Lukaku, equalised for the home team.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal : 7.14
Leicester: 7.04
Tottenham: 7
Manchester City: 6.99
Everton: 6.94
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 8.33
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal): 7.86
Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 7.82
Mousa Dembele (Tottenham): 7.72
Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal): 7.68
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Monday, 12 October 2015
South American treats for Arsenal and Manchester City
Stoke got their second straight win as Marko Arnautovic scored the only goal of the game. The defeat leaves West Brom seeking their first home win of the season.
After a goal-less first half, Crystal Palace scored twice in the second half to clinch victory. Yannick Bolasie put this host ahead and Yohan Cabaye added the second with a late penalty.
Points were shared between the two newly promoted side. Glenn Murray puts the home side ahead but Odion Ighalo ensures the Watford went into the dressing room on level term. Murray had the opportunity to win the game for Bournemouth late on but missed his penalty.
Manchester City went into the game on the back of two consecutive defeats. The home supporters can be forgiven for feeling the worse when Aleksandar Mitrovic puts Newcastle ahead. But Sergio Aguero equalised just before half time. Two goals within 6 minutes of the restart from the Argentine hotshot puts Manchester City 3-1 ahead. Kevin de Bruyne added the fourth before Augero added two more to his tally.
Seeking a quick response to their first defeat last week, Leicester found themselves 2-0 up with goals from Jamie Vardy and Jeffrey Schlupp. Dieumerci Mbokani put a goal back for the home team.
Sunderland seems to be on their way to their first victory of the season when Steven Fletcher and Jeremain Lens put them 2-0 ahead. Carl Jenkinson put a goal back on the stroke of half-time and the comeback was completed when Dimitri Payet equalised for West Ham.
Willian put Chelsea ahead only for Steven Davis to equalise for Southampton. Further goals from Sadio Mane and Graziano Pelle condemned Chelsea to their second home defeat.
Two late goals were the highlights of a rather dull Mersey derby. Danny Ings benefitted from some slack defending to put Liverpool ahead. But the lead lasted only 3 minutes when Romelu Lukaku took advantage of defensive mistake to level the score for Everton.
A fast start from Arsenal saw them went 3-0 ahead within 20 minutes. Alexis Sanchez put the home team ahead and Mesut Oezil added the second a minute later. Sanchez got his second of the day to ensure the Gunners leapfrogged Manchester United into second place.
Andre Ayew put Swansea ahead only for Christian Eriksen to equalised for Tottenham. A Harry Kane own goal restored the home team advantage only for Eriksen to spare his team-mate blushes with another equaliser.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal: 7.18
Manchester City: 7.1
Tottenham: 6.97
Leicester: 6.95
West Ham: 6.94
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 8.46
David Silva (Manchester City): 8.04
Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 7.87
Dimitri Payet (West Ham): 7.85
Santi Cazorla (Arsenal): 7.77
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
After a goal-less first half, Crystal Palace scored twice in the second half to clinch victory. Yannick Bolasie put this host ahead and Yohan Cabaye added the second with a late penalty.
Points were shared between the two newly promoted side. Glenn Murray puts the home side ahead but Odion Ighalo ensures the Watford went into the dressing room on level term. Murray had the opportunity to win the game for Bournemouth late on but missed his penalty.
Manchester City went into the game on the back of two consecutive defeats. The home supporters can be forgiven for feeling the worse when Aleksandar Mitrovic puts Newcastle ahead. But Sergio Aguero equalised just before half time. Two goals within 6 minutes of the restart from the Argentine hotshot puts Manchester City 3-1 ahead. Kevin de Bruyne added the fourth before Augero added two more to his tally.
Seeking a quick response to their first defeat last week, Leicester found themselves 2-0 up with goals from Jamie Vardy and Jeffrey Schlupp. Dieumerci Mbokani put a goal back for the home team.
Sunderland seems to be on their way to their first victory of the season when Steven Fletcher and Jeremain Lens put them 2-0 ahead. Carl Jenkinson put a goal back on the stroke of half-time and the comeback was completed when Dimitri Payet equalised for West Ham.
Willian put Chelsea ahead only for Steven Davis to equalise for Southampton. Further goals from Sadio Mane and Graziano Pelle condemned Chelsea to their second home defeat.
Two late goals were the highlights of a rather dull Mersey derby. Danny Ings benefitted from some slack defending to put Liverpool ahead. But the lead lasted only 3 minutes when Romelu Lukaku took advantage of defensive mistake to level the score for Everton.
A fast start from Arsenal saw them went 3-0 ahead within 20 minutes. Alexis Sanchez put the home team ahead and Mesut Oezil added the second a minute later. Sanchez got his second of the day to ensure the Gunners leapfrogged Manchester United into second place.
Andre Ayew put Swansea ahead only for Christian Eriksen to equalised for Tottenham. A Harry Kane own goal restored the home team advantage only for Eriksen to spare his team-mate blushes with another equaliser.
Top five performing team *
Arsenal: 7.18
Manchester City: 7.1
Tottenham: 6.97
Leicester: 6.95
West Ham: 6.94
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 8.46
David Silva (Manchester City): 8.04
Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 7.87
Dimitri Payet (West Ham): 7.85
Santi Cazorla (Arsenal): 7.77
* all statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Monday, 24 August 2015
Liverpool and Manchester United lost perfect record
Before the start of the weekend ganes, there were four teams who had 100% from their first 2 games. At the end of it, only Manchester City gets to keep their perfect start in tact.
The Citizens follow up their 3-0 success over Chelsea with another impressive victory at Goodison Park with Aleksandar Kolarov and Samir Nasri scoring the goals.
Liverpool and Manchester United were held to goal-less draw against Arsenal and Newcastle respectively. Both Aaron Ramsey and Wayne Rooney had goals wrongly ruled out for outside.
Leicester and Riyad Mahrez continued their brilliant start to the season with the Algerian equalising after Dele Alli had given Tottenham the lead 60 seconds earlier.
Champions Chelsea finally got their first win of the season at The Hawthorns. Debutant Pedro Rodriguez opened the scoring and Diego Costa put Chelsea 2-0 ahead. James Morrison made up for his earlier missed penalty by pulling a goal back before Cesar Azpilicueta restored the Blues 2-0 advantage. James Morrison got his second of the night but West Brom could not find an equaliser against ten men Chelsea after John Terry was sent off.
Bournemouth scored their first Premier Leagues goals when Callum Wilson scored twice to put the newly promoted side 2-0 ahead. Mark Noble and Cheikhou Kouyate levelled the score for the Hammers before Marc Pugh and Callum Wilson restored Cherries' 2-0 lead. Modibo Maiga pulled one back but forcing a draw proved too much for the home side who had Carl Jenkinson sent off.
Crystal Palace players scored all three goals in their 2-1 win over Aston Villa. Scott Dann put home side ahead only for Pape Ndiaye Souare to put through his own goalkeeper. Bakary Sako pops up with the winner to spare the Senegalese's blushes.
Watford got their third consecutive draw, helding Southampton 0-0 at Vicarage Road.
Matches between Norwich City vs Stoke City and Sunderland vs Swansea ended in a 1-1 draw.
Mame Biram Diouf put Stoke ahead in the 11th minute and Norwich replied through Russell Martin 17 minutes later.
Swansea scored on the stroke of half time, courtesy of Bafetimbi Gomis. Jermain Defoe replied to ensure Sunderland got their first point of the season.
Top five performing team *
Manchester City: 7.33
Liverpool: 7.12
Arsenal: 7.04
Swansea: 7.02
Watford: 7.01
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 9.22
Bakary Sako (Crystal Palace): 8.51
David Silva (Manchester City): 8.25
Pedro (Chelsea): 8.21
Yaya Toure (Manchester City): 8.14
The Citizens follow up their 3-0 success over Chelsea with another impressive victory at Goodison Park with Aleksandar Kolarov and Samir Nasri scoring the goals.
Liverpool and Manchester United were held to goal-less draw against Arsenal and Newcastle respectively. Both Aaron Ramsey and Wayne Rooney had goals wrongly ruled out for outside.
Leicester and Riyad Mahrez continued their brilliant start to the season with the Algerian equalising after Dele Alli had given Tottenham the lead 60 seconds earlier.
Champions Chelsea finally got their first win of the season at The Hawthorns. Debutant Pedro Rodriguez opened the scoring and Diego Costa put Chelsea 2-0 ahead. James Morrison made up for his earlier missed penalty by pulling a goal back before Cesar Azpilicueta restored the Blues 2-0 advantage. James Morrison got his second of the night but West Brom could not find an equaliser against ten men Chelsea after John Terry was sent off.
Bournemouth scored their first Premier Leagues goals when Callum Wilson scored twice to put the newly promoted side 2-0 ahead. Mark Noble and Cheikhou Kouyate levelled the score for the Hammers before Marc Pugh and Callum Wilson restored Cherries' 2-0 lead. Modibo Maiga pulled one back but forcing a draw proved too much for the home side who had Carl Jenkinson sent off.
Crystal Palace players scored all three goals in their 2-1 win over Aston Villa. Scott Dann put home side ahead only for Pape Ndiaye Souare to put through his own goalkeeper. Bakary Sako pops up with the winner to spare the Senegalese's blushes.
Watford got their third consecutive draw, helding Southampton 0-0 at Vicarage Road.
Matches between Norwich City vs Stoke City and Sunderland vs Swansea ended in a 1-1 draw.
Mame Biram Diouf put Stoke ahead in the 11th minute and Norwich replied through Russell Martin 17 minutes later.
Swansea scored on the stroke of half time, courtesy of Bafetimbi Gomis. Jermain Defoe replied to ensure Sunderland got their first point of the season.
Top five performing team *
Manchester City: 7.33
Liverpool: 7.12
Arsenal: 7.04
Swansea: 7.02
Watford: 7.01
Top five performing players *
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 9.22
Bakary Sako (Crystal Palace): 8.51
David Silva (Manchester City): 8.25
Pedro (Chelsea): 8.21
Yaya Toure (Manchester City): 8.14
*Statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Monday, 10 August 2015
Liverpool, Man City and Man Utd wins
Finally the big kick off is here and normal service for weekends resumes.
The big four / five endured mixed results with only Manchester City making an early statement. The Citizens put West Brom to the sword with Yaya Toure (twice) and Vincent Kompany scoring the goals.
Holder Chelsea was held to a 2-2 by Swansea at Stamford Bride. The Blues led twice and had Courtois sent off.
Arsenal was humbled by West Ham at the Emirates Stadium. Both goals were results of Cech's mistake, the signing that many said tilt the title in the Gunners' favour.
Liverpool and Manchester United were hardly inspiring in their 1-0 victory. Liverpool needing a Coutinho superb goal and the Red Devils had Kyle Walker to thanks for the three points.
Steve McClaren's tenure as manager of Newcastle began with a 2-2 draw against last season surprise package, Southampton.
Leicester will try to avoid last season scrap and did their cause no harm with a opening 4-2 victory over Sunderland.
None of the newly promoted team manages a win. Watford earn a point with at 2-2 draw at Everton, while both Bournemouth and Norwich lost their home game against Aston Villa (0-1) and Crystal Palace (1-3) respectively.
Top five performing team *
1) Manchester City: 7.70
2) Leicester: 7.55
3) West Ham: 7.52
4) Watford: 7.42
5) Crystal Palace: 7.42
Top five performing players *
1) Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 10.00
2) Marc Albrighton (Leicester): 9.31
3) Yaya Toure (Manchester City): 8.80
4) Adrian (West Ham): 8.78
5) Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 8.31
*Statistics provided by WhoScored.com
The big four / five endured mixed results with only Manchester City making an early statement. The Citizens put West Brom to the sword with Yaya Toure (twice) and Vincent Kompany scoring the goals.
Holder Chelsea was held to a 2-2 by Swansea at Stamford Bride. The Blues led twice and had Courtois sent off.
Arsenal was humbled by West Ham at the Emirates Stadium. Both goals were results of Cech's mistake, the signing that many said tilt the title in the Gunners' favour.
Liverpool and Manchester United were hardly inspiring in their 1-0 victory. Liverpool needing a Coutinho superb goal and the Red Devils had Kyle Walker to thanks for the three points.
Steve McClaren's tenure as manager of Newcastle began with a 2-2 draw against last season surprise package, Southampton.
Leicester will try to avoid last season scrap and did their cause no harm with a opening 4-2 victory over Sunderland.
None of the newly promoted team manages a win. Watford earn a point with at 2-2 draw at Everton, while both Bournemouth and Norwich lost their home game against Aston Villa (0-1) and Crystal Palace (1-3) respectively.
Top five performing team *
1) Manchester City: 7.70
2) Leicester: 7.55
3) West Ham: 7.52
4) Watford: 7.42
5) Crystal Palace: 7.42
Top five performing players *
1) Riyad Mahrez (Leicester): 10.00
2) Marc Albrighton (Leicester): 9.31
3) Yaya Toure (Manchester City): 8.80
4) Adrian (West Ham): 8.78
5) Jamie Vardy (Leicester): 8.31
*Statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Thursday, 6 August 2015
Six new faces to look out for
With the season to start in a couple of days, let us look at some of the new faces that could light up the Premier League.
Jordan Ayew
Striker, Aston Villa
The man tasked with replacing Christian Benteke has goals in him. He scored 13 times in the Ligue 1 for FC Lorient.
His pace will offer Villa options on the flank as well.
Appearance: 29
Goals: 11
Assist: 5
WhoScored.com rating: 7.07
Yohan Cabaye
Midfielder, Crystal Palace
Possibly the transfer coup of the summer, Cabaye will be linking up once again with manager Alan Pardew, after the pair enjoyed a successful stint together at Newcastle United from 2011 to 2014.
A great passer of the ball, Cabaye will also be adding goals to the London club. He scored 18 times in 93 appearances for Newcastle.
Appearance: 13
Goals: 1
Assist: 1
WhoScored.com rating: 7.06
Memphis Depay
Forward, Manchester United
One of the most promising young players in the world, Louis Van Gaal was so eager to sign him up that a deal was done before the end of last season.
Top Scorer in the Dutch Eredivisie with 22 goals, Depay is a good dribbler with plenty of pace and packed a power long shot.
Appearance: 30
Goal: 22
Assist: 5
WhoScored.com rating: 7.92
Georginio Wijnaldum
Midfielder, Newcastle
Newcastle third most expensive player, after Michael Owen and Alan Shearer, Wijnaldum captained PSV to the Eredivisie title last season and was crowned Dutch Footballer of the Year 2014/15.
The attacking midfielder had 19 caps for Netherlands and scored 56 goals in 152 appearances for PSV before arriving on Tyneside.
Appearance: 32
Goal: 14
Assist: 3
WhoScored.com rating: 7.47
Dimitri Payet
Midfielder, West Ham
A sensational swoop. Payet was the star in the Marseille side that finished four in the Ligue 1 last season.
He topped the Ligue 1 assist chart with 17 assists and wasted no time in winning the fans over with his man-of-the-match performances in the pre-season friendlies against Southend United and Norwich.
Appearance: 35
Goals: 7
Assist: 17
WhoScored.com rating: 7.62
Roberto Firmino
Forward, Liverpool
Firmino will add creativity and goals to Liverpool.
Known for his attacking prowess and dribbling ability, Firmino will add creativity and goals to a Liverpool side who was very dependent on Coutinho as a playmaking outlet last season.
The Brazilian can play across the front three.
Appearance: 33
Goal: 7
Assist: 10
WhoScored.com rating: 7.79
Jordan Ayew
Striker, Aston Villa
The man tasked with replacing Christian Benteke has goals in him. He scored 13 times in the Ligue 1 for FC Lorient.
His pace will offer Villa options on the flank as well.
Appearance: 29
Goals: 11
Assist: 5
WhoScored.com rating: 7.07
Yohan Cabaye
Midfielder, Crystal Palace
Possibly the transfer coup of the summer, Cabaye will be linking up once again with manager Alan Pardew, after the pair enjoyed a successful stint together at Newcastle United from 2011 to 2014.
A great passer of the ball, Cabaye will also be adding goals to the London club. He scored 18 times in 93 appearances for Newcastle.
Appearance: 13
Goals: 1
Assist: 1
WhoScored.com rating: 7.06
Memphis Depay
Forward, Manchester United
One of the most promising young players in the world, Louis Van Gaal was so eager to sign him up that a deal was done before the end of last season.
Top Scorer in the Dutch Eredivisie with 22 goals, Depay is a good dribbler with plenty of pace and packed a power long shot.
Appearance: 30
Goal: 22
Assist: 5
WhoScored.com rating: 7.92
Georginio Wijnaldum
Midfielder, Newcastle
Newcastle third most expensive player, after Michael Owen and Alan Shearer, Wijnaldum captained PSV to the Eredivisie title last season and was crowned Dutch Footballer of the Year 2014/15.
The attacking midfielder had 19 caps for Netherlands and scored 56 goals in 152 appearances for PSV before arriving on Tyneside.
Appearance: 32
Goal: 14
Assist: 3
WhoScored.com rating: 7.47
Dimitri Payet
Midfielder, West Ham
A sensational swoop. Payet was the star in the Marseille side that finished four in the Ligue 1 last season.
He topped the Ligue 1 assist chart with 17 assists and wasted no time in winning the fans over with his man-of-the-match performances in the pre-season friendlies against Southend United and Norwich.
Appearance: 35
Goals: 7
Assist: 17
WhoScored.com rating: 7.62
Roberto Firmino
Forward, Liverpool
Firmino will add creativity and goals to Liverpool.
Known for his attacking prowess and dribbling ability, Firmino will add creativity and goals to a Liverpool side who was very dependent on Coutinho as a playmaking outlet last season.
The Brazilian can play across the front three.
Appearance: 33
Goal: 7
Assist: 10
WhoScored.com rating: 7.79
Wednesday, 5 August 2015
MOAN-inho at it again
A master of the mind game, Jose Mourinho had started his game before the season gets underway.
First he took a swipe at Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool for spending more money than his Chelsea and buying their way to the title.
He might have selective memory but to put records on the table, over the period between 2004 and 2014, no manager in the world has spend more money than the Portuguese during his spells with Chelsea, Inter Milan and Real Madrid. His total spending, nearly €1bn, €22m more than his closest rival Carlo Ancelotti who succeeded him at Real
Second, after the Community Shield defeat at his nemesis Arsene Wenger's Arsenal, he said, "My opinion is the team that defends very well, that leaves their philosophy in the dressing room, changes their attitude, plays all the second half with nine players in front of the box, doesn’t concede and scores one goal, from that perspective they deserve to win.
"This is football. This is very good tactical organisation. Congratulations to them."
While Mourinho might seem to be praising Arsenal, it does not mask the fact he is critising Wenger for deploying the park-the-bus tactics, something which Mourinho has perfected and used frequently during big games en-route to the league title last season.
But is Arsenal really that bad?
Based on WhoScored.com statistic, the Blues' manager is far from being true.
Total Shots
Arsenal - 11
Chelsea - 14
Shots on Target
Arsenal - 5
Chelsea - 2
Pass Success
Arsenal - 75%
Chelsea - 80%
Aerial Success
Arsenal - 39%
Chelsea - 61%
Dribbles
Arsenal - 5
Chelsea - 11
Tackles
Arsenal - 11
Chelsea - 18
Possession
Arsenal - 43%
Chelsea - 57%
Knowing Mourinho, he will usually try to unnerve opponents whom he thinks is a threat to his Chelsea team. For him to pay such "tribute" to Arsenal, one can be sure that he sees Arsenal as a genuine contender.
First he took a swipe at Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool for spending more money than his Chelsea and buying their way to the title.
He might have selective memory but to put records on the table, over the period between 2004 and 2014, no manager in the world has spend more money than the Portuguese during his spells with Chelsea, Inter Milan and Real Madrid. His total spending, nearly €1bn, €22m more than his closest rival Carlo Ancelotti who succeeded him at Real
Second, after the Community Shield defeat at his nemesis Arsene Wenger's Arsenal, he said, "My opinion is the team that defends very well, that leaves their philosophy in the dressing room, changes their attitude, plays all the second half with nine players in front of the box, doesn’t concede and scores one goal, from that perspective they deserve to win.
"This is football. This is very good tactical organisation. Congratulations to them."
While Mourinho might seem to be praising Arsenal, it does not mask the fact he is critising Wenger for deploying the park-the-bus tactics, something which Mourinho has perfected and used frequently during big games en-route to the league title last season.
But is Arsenal really that bad?
Based on WhoScored.com statistic, the Blues' manager is far from being true.
Total Shots
Arsenal - 11
Chelsea - 14
Shots on Target
Arsenal - 5
Chelsea - 2
Pass Success
Arsenal - 75%
Chelsea - 80%
Aerial Success
Arsenal - 39%
Chelsea - 61%
Dribbles
Arsenal - 5
Chelsea - 11
Tackles
Arsenal - 11
Chelsea - 18
Possession
Arsenal - 43%
Chelsea - 57%
Knowing Mourinho, he will usually try to unnerve opponents whom he thinks is a threat to his Chelsea team. For him to pay such "tribute" to Arsenal, one can be sure that he sees Arsenal as a genuine contender.
Tuesday, 21 July 2015
Minus 16.5 million man likely to solve Liverpool woes
In January 2011, Liverpool completed the most expensive transfer between British club when they agreed to sell Fernando Torres to Chelsea for £50m. In replacement, they got the minus £15m man, Andy Carroll.
How did both transfers turned out? The lesser said the better.
Fast forward to now, the Reds had just completed another massive deal, shipping out contract rebel Raheem Sterling to Manchester City for a cool £49m.
And if rumours is to be believed, Liverpool had triggered the £32.5m release clause for Christian Benteke and the move will be completed on Wednesday.
For the best part of the 2014 / 15, Benteke looked like an one-season wonder, scoring just 2 goals in 27 games. However, his form took a massive upturn with the appointment of Tim Sherwood, scoring 11 goals in 9 games. Like they say, form is temporary, class is permanent.
But how did Benteke compare to Sterling, the player he is suppose to replace?
Raheem Sterling - Played 34 Goals 7 Assist 7 *
Christian Benteke - Played 26 Goals 13 Assist 2 *
In the 2014 / 15 season, creating chances was not a problem for Liverpool. Putting it in the back of the net was. Looking at the statistics of both players, Rodgers looked to have solve the issue that derailed them last season.
Both are big. Both are powerful. But can the minus £16.5m Belgian surpass the minus £15m man? There is every chance he will.
* Players' statistics provided by WhoScored.com
How did both transfers turned out? The lesser said the better.
Fast forward to now, the Reds had just completed another massive deal, shipping out contract rebel Raheem Sterling to Manchester City for a cool £49m.
And if rumours is to be believed, Liverpool had triggered the £32.5m release clause for Christian Benteke and the move will be completed on Wednesday.
For the best part of the 2014 / 15, Benteke looked like an one-season wonder, scoring just 2 goals in 27 games. However, his form took a massive upturn with the appointment of Tim Sherwood, scoring 11 goals in 9 games. Like they say, form is temporary, class is permanent.
But how did Benteke compare to Sterling, the player he is suppose to replace?
Raheem Sterling - Played 34 Goals 7 Assist 7 *
Christian Benteke - Played 26 Goals 13 Assist 2 *
In the 2014 / 15 season, creating chances was not a problem for Liverpool. Putting it in the back of the net was. Looking at the statistics of both players, Rodgers looked to have solve the issue that derailed them last season.
Both are big. Both are powerful. But can the minus £16.5m Belgian surpass the minus £15m man? There is every chance he will.
* Players' statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Friday, 3 July 2015
Liverpool overhaul squad
After the disappointment of last season, Liverpool wasted no time seeking new additions to try and grab the Champions League spot back.
The main problem with the Reds last season was the lack of goals and they addressed the issue by signing Roberto Firmino and Danny Ings from Hoffenheim and Burnley respectively.
Despite Bunrley going down, Ings had a breakthrough season and was the shining light for the Clarets. From some of the clips on Youtube, Firmino looks a promising addition. Then again who doesn't look good on Youtube.
If Daniel Sturridge can stay clear of injuries, together with Coutinho and Raheem Sterling (if he is still around), the five of them have the capabilities to set the Premier League on fire.
Beside the attacking duo, Liverpool has also recruited goalkeeper Adam Bogdan (Bolton), midfielder James Milner (Manchester City), defenders Joe Gomez (Charlton) and Nathaniel Clyne (Southampton).
Clyne performed brilliantly last season, so much so that if Calcum Chambers was still at Southampton, he would find it hard to dislodge Clyne from the right back position.
As for James Milner, while he is not regular at Manchester City, he did reasonably well when called upon. He belongs to one of those players that do not come with a high profile but consistently performed beyond what is required of him.
Exciting times for Liverpool? For his own sake, Brendan Rodgers can only hope.
Roberto Firmino
Position: Attacker
Nationality: Brazil
Transfer fee: €41million
Bundesliga: 33 (appearances) / 7 (goals) / 10 (assist) / 7.79 (whoscored.com ratings)
Copa America: 3 / 1 / - / 6.56
Danny Ings
Position: Attacker
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: Free
Premier League: 35 / 11 / 4 / 6.89
James Milner
Position: Midfielder
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: Free
Premier League: 18 / 5 / 7 / 7.02
UEFA Champions League: 6 / 1 / - / 6.60
Nathaniel Clyne
Position: Defender
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: €17.6million
Premier League: 35 / 2 / - / 7.04
Adam Bogdan
Position: Goalkeeper
Nationality: Hungary
Transfer fee: Free
Championship: 10 / - / - / 6.83
Joe Gomez
Position: Defender
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: €4.9million
Stats not available
* Player statistics provided by WhoScored.com
The main problem with the Reds last season was the lack of goals and they addressed the issue by signing Roberto Firmino and Danny Ings from Hoffenheim and Burnley respectively.
Despite Bunrley going down, Ings had a breakthrough season and was the shining light for the Clarets. From some of the clips on Youtube, Firmino looks a promising addition. Then again who doesn't look good on Youtube.
If Daniel Sturridge can stay clear of injuries, together with Coutinho and Raheem Sterling (if he is still around), the five of them have the capabilities to set the Premier League on fire.
Beside the attacking duo, Liverpool has also recruited goalkeeper Adam Bogdan (Bolton), midfielder James Milner (Manchester City), defenders Joe Gomez (Charlton) and Nathaniel Clyne (Southampton).
Clyne performed brilliantly last season, so much so that if Calcum Chambers was still at Southampton, he would find it hard to dislodge Clyne from the right back position.
As for James Milner, while he is not regular at Manchester City, he did reasonably well when called upon. He belongs to one of those players that do not come with a high profile but consistently performed beyond what is required of him.
Exciting times for Liverpool? For his own sake, Brendan Rodgers can only hope.
Roberto Firmino
Position: Attacker
Nationality: Brazil
Transfer fee: €41million
Bundesliga: 33 (appearances) / 7 (goals) / 10 (assist) / 7.79 (whoscored.com ratings)
Copa America: 3 / 1 / - / 6.56
Danny Ings
Position: Attacker
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: Free
Premier League: 35 / 11 / 4 / 6.89
James Milner
Position: Midfielder
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: Free
Premier League: 18 / 5 / 7 / 7.02
UEFA Champions League: 6 / 1 / - / 6.60
Nathaniel Clyne
Position: Defender
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: €17.6million
Premier League: 35 / 2 / - / 7.04
Adam Bogdan
Position: Goalkeeper
Nationality: Hungary
Transfer fee: Free
Championship: 10 / - / - / 6.83
Joe Gomez
Position: Defender
Nationality: England
Transfer fee: €4.9million
Stats not available
* Player statistics provided by WhoScored.com
Monday, 22 June 2015
Season 2014/15 in review
Chelsea won the double of League title and cup. Arsenal retained their FA Cup. Hull, Burnley and QPR were relegated to the Championship and Manchester United snatched back their Champions League position.
We look back at the 2014/15 season and give our verdicts on the performances for the teams.
Chelsea - Led the table from day 1 and never relinguish the position, clinching the title with 3 games to spare. Beside the title, the Blues was won the League Cup. Our verdict: Excellent. Whoscored.com rating: 7.28
Man City - As the saying goes, "Winning the title is hard, retaining it is harder". Manchester City season prove just about right. The collective lost of form from the core players like Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and Sergio Aguero was their achilles heel. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.29.
Arsenal - Poor start means their title challenge was over by November. Put together an amazing run of 9 wins in 11 games towards the end. But gap proved too huge to overcome. Retain the FA Cup in emphatic style. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.38.
Man Utd - The appointment of Louis Van Gaal and new signings like Angel Di Maria, Macros Rojo, Luke Shaw, Danny Blind and Ander Herrara gave the fans plenty of look forward to. But, the Red Devils proved to be very much a team in transition. More importantly, they wrestle back their Champions League spot. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com: 7.20
Tottenham - Touted as the team to break the big four stranglehold but ended up as the bridesmaid yet again. The emergence of Harry Kane was the highlight of their season. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.08
Liverpool - After coming to within a whisker of finally ending their 25 years wait for the league title, Reds' fans started the season with high hopes. But the sale of Luis Suarez and the injuries substained by Daniel Sturridge dashed all hopes. Managed to make it to the semi-finals of both the FA and Capital One Cup but fans expected more. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com: 7.06
Southampton - After the mass exodus of players, many predicted that Southampton will struggle. However, they exceed all expectation and remain in the top four for most part of the early season. Falter towards the end but still, managed to qualify for Europe next season. Surprise team of the season. Our verdict: Excellent. Whoscored.com rating: 7.08
Swansea - A mid table club who is not expected to challenge the big boys. However, they managed to overcome the lost of star striker Wilfried Bony, who joined Manchester City in the January transfer window, to stay in the top half of the table. Our rating: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.03
Stoke - Another of the mid table team, without any high hopes going into the season. Did well to retain their 9th position. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com: 7.04.
Crystal Palace - "One man's poison is another's meat". You can said that about Crystal Palace and Alan Pardew. Much hatred at the St James' Park, Pardew left the Magpies to join a Palace stuck in relegation zone and guided them to 10th position, their highest ever position in the Premier League. Pardew became the only manager to take over a club in relegation zone and eventually guided them to the top half of the table. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.00.
Everton - This is the season whereby we were suppose to see the rise of Ross Barkley after his breakthrough season the previous year. However, he did not really set the league on fire. So too did Everton. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com rating: 6.96.
West Ham - The highlight of an otherwise average season is their qualification to the Europa League first qualifying round after finishing top of the Premier League Fair Play table. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com rating: 7.01.
West Brom - Another of the mid table club who managed to meet what must be their main objective, which is to stay in the Premier League. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com rating: 6.91.
Leicester - Started the season brilliantly but lost their way. Look set for relegation until they went on an amazing run, collecting 22 points out of a possible 30 to secure their survival. Our verdict: Excellent. Whoscored.com: 7.02
Newcastle - Appointed John Carver in January after Alan Pardew left to join Crystal Palace. Under Carver, Newcastle only managed to collective 12 points in 18 games. A win on the last day of the season secured their survival. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.89.
Sunderland - Draw specialist (17) and joint-second lowest goal scoring team, Sunderland spent the entire season hovering around the relegation positions. The club parted way with Gus Poyet and Dick Advocat was named as the replacement. The Blacks Cats eventually did just enough to retain their Premier League status. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.89.
Aston Villa - Joint-second lowest goal scoring team, Aston Villa parted way with Paul Lambert in February. The appointment of Tim Sherwood coincide with an upturn in form. They managed to fend off relegation and made it in the FA Cup. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com: 6.82.
Hull - After the highs of playing in the Europa League as a losing finalist in the 2013-14 FA Cup, Hull was brought back to earth with a heavy landing. After a relatively good start, The Tigers managed only 5 points out of possible 30 during the Nov-Dec period. They tried to fight against the odds but was unable to reverse it, Newcastle's final day victory condemn Hull to the Championship next season. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.92
Burnley - One of the favourites for the drop, Burnley put on a valiant fight but the difference in class was simply too great. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.91
QPR - The London club only managed to get their first away win, and indeed the first away points, in their 11th attempt. With such absyml away record, it is no wonder that they have been around their relegation zone. And their fate was sealed when they got hammered 6-0 by Manchester City. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.91
We look back at the 2014/15 season and give our verdicts on the performances for the teams.
Chelsea - Led the table from day 1 and never relinguish the position, clinching the title with 3 games to spare. Beside the title, the Blues was won the League Cup. Our verdict: Excellent. Whoscored.com rating: 7.28
Man City - As the saying goes, "Winning the title is hard, retaining it is harder". Manchester City season prove just about right. The collective lost of form from the core players like Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and Sergio Aguero was their achilles heel. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.29.
Arsenal - Poor start means their title challenge was over by November. Put together an amazing run of 9 wins in 11 games towards the end. But gap proved too huge to overcome. Retain the FA Cup in emphatic style. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.38.
Man Utd - The appointment of Louis Van Gaal and new signings like Angel Di Maria, Macros Rojo, Luke Shaw, Danny Blind and Ander Herrara gave the fans plenty of look forward to. But, the Red Devils proved to be very much a team in transition. More importantly, they wrestle back their Champions League spot. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com: 7.20
Tottenham - Touted as the team to break the big four stranglehold but ended up as the bridesmaid yet again. The emergence of Harry Kane was the highlight of their season. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.08
Liverpool - After coming to within a whisker of finally ending their 25 years wait for the league title, Reds' fans started the season with high hopes. But the sale of Luis Suarez and the injuries substained by Daniel Sturridge dashed all hopes. Managed to make it to the semi-finals of both the FA and Capital One Cup but fans expected more. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com: 7.06
Southampton - After the mass exodus of players, many predicted that Southampton will struggle. However, they exceed all expectation and remain in the top four for most part of the early season. Falter towards the end but still, managed to qualify for Europe next season. Surprise team of the season. Our verdict: Excellent. Whoscored.com rating: 7.08
Swansea - A mid table club who is not expected to challenge the big boys. However, they managed to overcome the lost of star striker Wilfried Bony, who joined Manchester City in the January transfer window, to stay in the top half of the table. Our rating: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.03
Stoke - Another of the mid table team, without any high hopes going into the season. Did well to retain their 9th position. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com: 7.04.
Crystal Palace - "One man's poison is another's meat". You can said that about Crystal Palace and Alan Pardew. Much hatred at the St James' Park, Pardew left the Magpies to join a Palace stuck in relegation zone and guided them to 10th position, their highest ever position in the Premier League. Pardew became the only manager to take over a club in relegation zone and eventually guided them to the top half of the table. Our verdict: Good. Whoscored.com rating: 7.00.
Everton - This is the season whereby we were suppose to see the rise of Ross Barkley after his breakthrough season the previous year. However, he did not really set the league on fire. So too did Everton. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com rating: 6.96.
West Ham - The highlight of an otherwise average season is their qualification to the Europa League first qualifying round after finishing top of the Premier League Fair Play table. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com rating: 7.01.
West Brom - Another of the mid table club who managed to meet what must be their main objective, which is to stay in the Premier League. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com rating: 6.91.
Leicester - Started the season brilliantly but lost their way. Look set for relegation until they went on an amazing run, collecting 22 points out of a possible 30 to secure their survival. Our verdict: Excellent. Whoscored.com: 7.02
Newcastle - Appointed John Carver in January after Alan Pardew left to join Crystal Palace. Under Carver, Newcastle only managed to collective 12 points in 18 games. A win on the last day of the season secured their survival. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.89.
Sunderland - Draw specialist (17) and joint-second lowest goal scoring team, Sunderland spent the entire season hovering around the relegation positions. The club parted way with Gus Poyet and Dick Advocat was named as the replacement. The Blacks Cats eventually did just enough to retain their Premier League status. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.89.
Aston Villa - Joint-second lowest goal scoring team, Aston Villa parted way with Paul Lambert in February. The appointment of Tim Sherwood coincide with an upturn in form. They managed to fend off relegation and made it in the FA Cup. Our verdict: Average. Whoscored.com: 6.82.
Hull - After the highs of playing in the Europa League as a losing finalist in the 2013-14 FA Cup, Hull was brought back to earth with a heavy landing. After a relatively good start, The Tigers managed only 5 points out of possible 30 during the Nov-Dec period. They tried to fight against the odds but was unable to reverse it, Newcastle's final day victory condemn Hull to the Championship next season. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.92
Burnley - One of the favourites for the drop, Burnley put on a valiant fight but the difference in class was simply too great. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.91
QPR - The London club only managed to get their first away win, and indeed the first away points, in their 11th attempt. With such absyml away record, it is no wonder that they have been around their relegation zone. And their fate was sealed when they got hammered 6-0 by Manchester City. Our verdict: Poor. Whoscored.com rating: 6.91
Wednesday, 17 June 2015
Premier League opening day fixtures 2015/16
The pick of the opening day fixtures is at Old Trafford whereby Manchester United will take on Tottenham Hotspurs.
Champions Chelsea will start against Swansea City and Manchester City will face West Brom.
A London derby will see FA Cup holder Arsenal playing host to West Ham.
For the promotees, Watford will travel to Goodison Park to face Everton while Bournemouth and Norwich will play host to Aston Villa and Crystal Palace respectively.
Opening day fixtures - August 8, 2015
Bournemouth v Aston Villa
Arsenal v West Ham United
Chelsea v Swansea City
Everton v Watford
Leicester City v Sunderland
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
Newcastle United v Southampton
Norwich City v Crystal Palace
Stoke City v Liverpool
West Bromwich Albion v Manchester City
Champions Chelsea will start against Swansea City and Manchester City will face West Brom.
A London derby will see FA Cup holder Arsenal playing host to West Ham.
For the promotees, Watford will travel to Goodison Park to face Everton while Bournemouth and Norwich will play host to Aston Villa and Crystal Palace respectively.
Opening day fixtures - August 8, 2015
Bournemouth v Aston Villa
Arsenal v West Ham United
Chelsea v Swansea City
Everton v Watford
Leicester City v Sunderland
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
Newcastle United v Southampton
Norwich City v Crystal Palace
Stoke City v Liverpool
West Bromwich Albion v Manchester City
Saturday, 23 May 2015
The Legend - Steven Gerrard
On May 17 2015, Anfield bade her farewell to one of the best players to have wear donned the red jersey.
It marks the final Anfield appearance for Steven Gerrard, ending an almost 26 years association.
Fans, team-mates and players from opponents of the day, Crystal Palace, gave a guard of honour to the captain, richly deserving to a player who had won almost every silverwares available in club football.
Gerrard joined Liverpool Academy at the age of nine, made his first-team debut in 1998 and replaced Sami Hyypia as captain in 2003.
He made his England debut in 2000 and was appointed permanent captain for England at Euro 2012.
When he retired from the international scene, he had 114 caps to his name, third most capped players after Peter Shilton and David Beckham.
He is tied on fifth place with Robbie Fowler in the all time list of goalscorers for Liverpool and is one of only three players to have played more than 500 Premier League games for one club.
His other accolades includes being the only player to have scored in the the FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Cup and Champions League Finals and Liverpool's first ever player to score in 15 successive league campaigns.
See below for his career timeline.
It marks the final Anfield appearance for Steven Gerrard, ending an almost 26 years association.
Fans, team-mates and players from opponents of the day, Crystal Palace, gave a guard of honour to the captain, richly deserving to a player who had won almost every silverwares available in club football.
Gerrard joined Liverpool Academy at the age of nine, made his first-team debut in 1998 and replaced Sami Hyypia as captain in 2003.
He made his England debut in 2000 and was appointed permanent captain for England at Euro 2012.
When he retired from the international scene, he had 114 caps to his name, third most capped players after Peter Shilton and David Beckham.
He is tied on fifth place with Robbie Fowler in the all time list of goalscorers for Liverpool and is one of only three players to have played more than 500 Premier League games for one club.
His other accolades includes being the only player to have scored in the the FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Cup and Champions League Finals and Liverpool's first ever player to score in 15 successive league campaigns.
See below for his career timeline.
1980
- May 30
Born in Whiston, Merseyside
- May 30
1989
- Join Liverpool Academy
1994
- Trials with various clubs, including Manchester United
1997
- Nov 5
Signed first professional contract with Liverpool
- Nov 5
1998
- Nov 29
Made first-team debut in a Premier League match against Blackburn Rover, coming on as a last-minute substitute for Vegard Heggem. Made 13 appearance in debut season.
- Nov 29
1999
- Sep 27
Received first red-card for a foul on Everton's Kevin Campbell
- Dec 12
Scored his senior goal in a 4-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday
- Sep 27
2000
- May 31
Made international debut against Ukraine.
- May 31
2001
- Made 50 starts and scored 10 goals as he won his majors honours with Liverpool; FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup. Named PFA Player of the Year.
- Aug 12
Won Charity Shield. - Aug 24
Won UEFA Super Cup. - Sep 01
Score first international goal in the 5-1 win over Germany.
2003
- Mar 02
Scored the opening goal in club's 2-0 win over Manchester United in the League Cup Final.
- Oct 15
Replaced Sami Hyypia as Liverpool captain.
- Mar 02
2005
- May 25
Scored the first goal and won the penalty for the third as Liverpool came back from a three-goal deficit to tie the final at 3-3. Liverpool claimed their first Champions League trophy in twenty years after truimphing 3-2 in the penalty shootout. Named Man of the match and later received the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year award
- Jul 05
Rejected club record £100,000-a-week offer new contract. Made U-turn the next day and signed a new four-year deal.
- May 25
2006
- May 13
Scored twice in the FA Cup final which Liverpool won 3-1 in the penalty shootout. Became the only player to score in the FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Cup and Champions League Finals.
- Jun
Played in his first World Cup, scoring two goals. Missed one of England's spotkick as the Three Lions was knocked out by Portugal.
- May 13
2007
- Oct 13
Captained England for the first time in a competitive game. - Oct 28
Scored in his 400th game for Liverpool against Arsenal.
- Oct 13
2008
- Apr 13
Made his 300th Premier League appearance, scored opening goal against Blackburn.
Selected for PFA Team of the Year and one of nominees for PFA Player of the Year award. - Oct 01
Scored his 100th career Liverpool goal against PSV in a Champions League group stage game.
- Apr 13
2009
- Mar 10
Made 100th appearance in European club competition for Liverpool, scoring twice in their 4-0 win over Real Madrid. - Mar 22
Scored his first ever hat-trick in the Premier League against Aston Villa. - May 13
Named Footbll Writers' Association Footballer of the Year. - Dec 05
Made his 500th apperance for Liverpool in a 0-0 draw against Blackburn Rovers.
- Mar 10
2010
- Jun
Appointed England's captain for the World Cup. - Sep 07
Scored his second career hat-trick in the 3-1 win over Napoli in the Europa League.
- Jun
2012
- Mar 13
Made his 400th Premier League appearance, scoring thrice to give Liverpool a 3-0 victory over local rival Everton. - Jun
Made permanent captain for England at Euro 2012. Only England player to be named in the UEFA Team of the Tournament. - Nov 14
Won his 100th cap for England in friendly against Sweden.
- Mar 13
2013
- Sep 16
Captained Liverpool for the 400th time in a 2-2 draw at Swansea City. - Oct 05
Scored in a 3-1 win over Crystal Palace, becoming Liverpool's first ever player to score in 15 successive league campaigns, overtaking Liverpool legend Billy Liddell. - Oct 19
Scored his 100th Premier League goal against Newcastle United.
- Sep 16
2014
- Apr 06
Scored two penalties against West Ham United to go top of the Premier League table with 5 games to go. Double took him above Kenny Dalglish as Liverpool's sixth-top scorer of all time. - Apr 27
Top with three games to go, Gerrard slipped while receiving a pass to allow Demba Ba to score the opening goal for Chelsea. Chelsea went on to win 2-0 and Liverpool's title hope were no longer in their hands. - May
Finish season with 13 goals and league most assist at 13. Nominee for the PFA Player of the Year award. Won the 2014 Liverpool Echo Sports Personality Award. - Jul 21
Announced retirement from international football. With 114 caps, he is the third most capped player after Peter Shilton (125) and David Beckham (115).
- Apr 06
2015
- Jan 01
Announced that he will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season. - Feb 04
Made his 700th appearance for Liverpool in the the FA Cup tie against Bolton. - Feb 10
Scored from the penalty spot in 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspurs. Goal put Gerrard equal with Robbie Fowler in fifth place in the all time list of goalscorers for Liverpool. - Mar 22
Sent off after 38 seconds after coming on as a half-time substitute in a match against Manchester United. - Apr 25
Made his 500th league appearance for Liverpool, becoming only the third player to achieve 500 or more Premier League appearances for one club, after Ryan Giggs and Jamie Carragher. - May 17
Given a guard of honour by his Liverpool teammates and Crystal Palace players ahead of his Anfield farewell.
- Jan 01
Friday, 1 May 2015
Barcelona and Liverpool, a contrasting difference
Known collectively as MSN in Spain, the trio of Messi (49 goals), Suarez (21) and Neymar (32) has now scored a combined 102 goals in all competition this season. They smashed the club record of a century of goals scored by Messi, Samuel Eto'o and Thierry Henry during the 2009 Treble winning season.
With at least 6 more games to go, who in the right state of mind will bet against them stretching the record further.
What makes this feat more impressive is Suarez's contribution. Due to his ban for biting an opponent during the World Cup, the Uruguary international started his Barcelona career only in end October. It is not far-fetched to suggest the record would have been broken earlier if not of his ban.
Whenever Suarez is being mentioned, one cannot help but bring Liverpool into the picture. Powered by his and Sturridge's goals, Liverpool pushed Manchester City hard for the title last season. Surely, their performances will give their fans plenty to look forward to this season.
But Suarez was sold to Barcelona while Sturridge had an injuries plagued season. New recruits Mario Balotelli had one goal to his name while Rickie Lambert could only double the tally. False number nine, Sterling, who is their top scorer this season, had only 11.
The total goals scored as at the time of posting, 47. With such low tally, getting into the top four will be a tall order, let alone winning the title.
One cannot help but wonder what it might have been had Liverpool kept their S&S strike-force together.
Like they say, goals win you games. But, don't tell this to Jose Mourinho.
Wednesday, 29 April 2015
Wembley, here we come. Arsenal FC
After a nine years wait, Arsenal finally broke their run without a trophy when they won the English FA Cup in 2014. Many have predicted that this could be the start of a golden era but that was put in place after quite a disastrous start to their new season.
Out of the Champions League, Capital One Cup and out of the league title chase (thou they could still mathematically win it), FA Cup is their last hope of a silverware, if one exclude the “top 4 trophy” that manager Wenger so craved.
Like last year, they had a tough semi-final against supposingly lower quality opposition. But unlike last year, they settled the issue in extra-time without having to go through the lottery of a penalty shootout. They took the lead in the 40th minute only for Reading to equalise within nine minutes of the second half. Try as they might, Arsenal could not find a winning goal. It took a mistake by Reading’s goalkeeper, letting Sanchez shot slipped through his legs, to eventually settle the issue.
Aston Villa now stand in the way of Wenger of equaling the most FA Cup won by a manager. Many clubs would love to be in this situation of winning the oldest cup trophy, but for Arsenal fans, I suspect they would rather trade it for either the League title or the Champions League.
Without doubt, Arsenal will be favourites to retain the trophy, but this is Arsenal that we are talking about. A club that has the tendency to either screw things up at the big stage or make things difficult for themselves. Not to forget, the “strange” tactics of Wenger. In the semi final, he replaced both full backs, Debuchy and Gibbs coming in for Bellerin and Monreal. Both are able replacements, in fact, the first choices but they have not seen much actions lately. Also, he decided to start with Welbeck instead of the in-form Giroud. Puzzling indeed.
In any case, I am looking forward to a great final at the Wembley Stadium. While I am quietly confident, something tells me that the result might not be as what I have hoped for.
Out of the Champions League, Capital One Cup and out of the league title chase (thou they could still mathematically win it), FA Cup is their last hope of a silverware, if one exclude the “top 4 trophy” that manager Wenger so craved.
Like last year, they had a tough semi-final against supposingly lower quality opposition. But unlike last year, they settled the issue in extra-time without having to go through the lottery of a penalty shootout. They took the lead in the 40th minute only for Reading to equalise within nine minutes of the second half. Try as they might, Arsenal could not find a winning goal. It took a mistake by Reading’s goalkeeper, letting Sanchez shot slipped through his legs, to eventually settle the issue.
Aston Villa now stand in the way of Wenger of equaling the most FA Cup won by a manager. Many clubs would love to be in this situation of winning the oldest cup trophy, but for Arsenal fans, I suspect they would rather trade it for either the League title or the Champions League.
Without doubt, Arsenal will be favourites to retain the trophy, but this is Arsenal that we are talking about. A club that has the tendency to either screw things up at the big stage or make things difficult for themselves. Not to forget, the “strange” tactics of Wenger. In the semi final, he replaced both full backs, Debuchy and Gibbs coming in for Bellerin and Monreal. Both are able replacements, in fact, the first choices but they have not seen much actions lately. Also, he decided to start with Welbeck instead of the in-form Giroud. Puzzling indeed.
In any case, I am looking forward to a great final at the Wembley Stadium. While I am quietly confident, something tells me that the result might not be as what I have hoped for.
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