Middlesbrough - Plymouth Argyle

Middlesbrough hold a place in the play-off zone (4th) and made two good performances in last two rounds. First, won against Derby at home (2-0) which was a first positive result at Riverside after three defeats without a single goal scored (WBA 0-5. Leicester 0-1 and Watford 0-1). Then Southgate got fired and new man in charge, Gordon Strachan, watched from vip seat an away draw vs. Preston (2-2). Considering their ratio performances/points, in my opinion Boro lack in points and possess unused potential that especially reflected in home games (ten points from 21). Strachan declared the striking force as the main problem and already sign on two months loan deal striker Marcus Bent from Birmingham (ex Charlton). Two forwards, Caleb Folan and Jeremie Aliadiere, are injured and Bent goes straight into Boro’s starting eleven. All others are fit and available to the new boss. Debuts of the new managers always have a positive impact to the team morale and Strachan surely couldn’t wish a better opponent for it (maybe we can even talk about god timing of chairman Steve Gibson).

 

In opening 14 rounds and noticed 9 (from possible 42) points, Pilgrims haven’t shown anything that could keep them in the Championship. After seven consecutive defeats, team won twice (Peterborough and Scunthorpe), then again bad run with just one point in three games (bottom side, Keano’s Ipswich 1-1) and in my opinion it’s fair to say Plymouth simply don’t possess enough quality to resist against any decent club in Championship. Here are some facts about their previous effort. They are the only side not to have kept a single clean sheet this season, have picked up one point from their eight matches against top-half clubs and have conceded nine goals in the last 15 minutes of matches this season - more than any other club. Really can’t see any sign of potential improving. At Riverside, boss Paul Sturrock will have some additional problems, with missing players. Young defender Darcy Blake is suspended, while key striker Rory Fallon will face a fitness test. Also, Pilgrims could have a big problem at right back (Boro’s best scorer so far is winger Adam Johnson, btw.) as Gray and McNamee have ankle injuries.

 

Difference in quality is obvious, home ground and new manager who will make his debut on the bench will also be the big advantages. My opinion is only miracle could save Plymouth of a debacle at Riverside.  My suggestion is home handicap win. -1, -1.25, -1.5 choose which you like.

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I'll be on the road for the weekend. Maybe one more analyze for Sunday (Cardiff), maybe not. Cheers lads.

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Friday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is planning a summer raid on Manchester United to sign defender Rio Ferdinand, who has recently endured a torrid few months for club and country.(Daily Mail) 
Former Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor says that current Gunners captain Cesc Fabregas will be the next star to quit the Emirates if the club underachieve again this season.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal could also lose Fabregas' fellow Spanish midfielder Fran Merida, with Atletico Madrid set to step up their interest in the player.(The Sun) 
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is keen on signing Torino's Italy Under-21 international defender Angelo Ogbonna.(The Sun) 
Birmingham want to sign Seville striker Arouna Kone on loan.(The Sun) 
Alternatively, City are planning a move for Salzburg striker Marc Janko.(Daily Mirror) 
Wolves striker Chris Iwelumo has turned down the chance to join Middlesbrough.(Daily Mirror) 
Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan has other targets in mind though, namely Manchester United striker Federico Macheda, who the Scot wants on loan.(Daily Mail) 
Swansea are tracking Sheffield United's Welsh international winger David Cotterill.(Daily Mirror) 
Derby boss Nigel Clough is planning a £500,000 swoop for Plymouth striker Jamie Mackie.(Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is wanted by Real Madrid as replacement for current boss Manuel Pellegrini.(Daily Mail) 
Hull manager Phil Brown has been given only two games to save his job as the club look to consolidate in the wake of the departure of Paul Duffen as chairman.(The Sun)
Alternatively, Brown has just one game to avoid the sack, meaning he must get a positive result at Burnley on Saturday.(Independent) 
However, if former Hull owner Adam Pearson returns to the club, Brown will be axed as manager regardless of whether he turns their fortunes around.(Daily Mail) 
Another manager who is battling to save his job is Reading boss Brendan Rodgers, who has two games to save himself from the axe.(Daily Mail) 
Notts County executive chairman Peter Trembling says the club backed away from appointing former Inter coach Roberto Mancini as boss at Meadow Lane because of the media interest it would generate.(Guardian) 
Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has denied suggestions that his poor form this season is because of continual transfer speculation linking him with a move to European champions Barcelona.(The Sun) 
Liverpool's players have backed Italian midfielder Alberto Aquilani, who has recovered from a broken ankle, to be the club's trump card after he finally made his debut in the Carling Cup tie with Arsenal on Wednesday.(Daily Mirror) 
Striker Marlon King will miss out on £2.7m in wages after his sacking by Wigan in the aftermath of his 18-month jail sentence for sexual assault.(Daily Mirror) 
LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham will miss England's friendly with Brazil in Doha on 14 November if Galaxy win their MLS play-off next week as they would next play again on the 12th. This will wreck his chances of breaking Peter Shilton's 125-cap record at the World Cup in South Africa next year.(The Sun) 
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has slammed international friendlies as money-making ventures for FA delegates, who fancy a "nice sunny trip".(The Sun) 
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has phoned Sir Alex Ferguson, Sam Allardyce, Steve Bruce and Rafa Benitez to help defuse the row over comments attributed to him suggesting that the Manchester United, Blackburn and Sunderland boss were ganging up on Liverpool manager Benitez.(The Sun) 
Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy says that he will quit international football with Wales if City qualify for the Champions League.(Daily Mirror) 
Former Arsenal defender Sol Campbell's attempts to release his registration from Notts County have hit a snag as the club want him to agree to five-year gagging agreement preventing him talking about his time at Meadow Lane.(The Sun) 
Arsenal striker Jay Simpson is aiming to be a hit in the Premier League next season, whether it be with the Gunners or at QPR, with whom he is currently on loan.(Daily Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Sheffield United player-coach Gary Speed says the only training he is now doing is for the London Marathon. The former Newcastle midfielder, who has been recovering from a serious back injury suffered last November, is running the event for the Bobby Robson Foundation.(Daily Mirror) 
Former Manchester City defender Danny Mills will compete in April's Brighton Marathon in a wheelchair to help raise money for the Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus and football charity the National Association of Disabled Supporters. (The Sun) 
Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri says he was so hungry to make his mark on his return to Arsenal's in the Carling Cup match with Liverpool on Wednesday he "wanted to eat the pitch". The Frenchman has been out for three months with a broken leg.(The Sun) 
Portsmouth boss Paul Hart says he loves being kept in the dark over issues at Fratton Park as it makes his day more interesting. Hart admitted he had not been consulted over the appointment of Avram Grant as director of football in October and Pompey despite a transfer embargo being in place at the club since 15 October, Hart only found out about it on Tuesday.(The Sun)

www.bbc.co.uk

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P.S.:Football weekend is in front. Analyzes will follow, first tonight.

Thursday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is ready to sign Valencia winger Juan Mata for £16.5m next summer.(The Sun) 
Liverpool and Manchester United are monitoring David Villa after the Spain striker sacked his agent for failing to secure a summer move away from Valencia.(Various) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is keen to make a move for 16-year-old Mexican Martin Luis Galvan.(Daily Mirror) 
Porto Alegra's Brazilian midfielder Sandro is interested in a move to Tottenham. (Daily Mirror) 
Watford will ask Manchester United and Arsenal to extend the loan deals for Tom Cleverley and Henri Lansbury. (Daily Mirror) 
Ipswich manager Roy Keane has been rejected in his bid to sign Stoke defenders Danny Higginbotham and Leon Court on loan until January. (Daily Mirror) 
Burton Albion manager Paul Peschisolido wants to sign Crewe striker Anthony Elding on a three-month loan deal.(Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Roman Pavlyuchenko's agent has suggested the Tottenham striker's recent poor form is down to "psychological problems" and not a lack of match practice.(The Sun) 
Further doubt has been cast over the future of Hull boss Phil Brown after Adam Pearson quit his post as Derby chairman on Wednesday to take on the same role at the KC Stadium.(The Sun) 
Brown is on the brink of being forced out of the club following their decision to replace his staunch ally, Paul Duffin, with Pearson.(Daily Mirror) 
Brown has been told his future as Hull manager is safe for now, having been called to a meeting with club officials on Monday night and asked to explain his vision for the side after just three league wins in 2009. (Daily Star)
Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina, currently earning £60,000 per week, will be offered a new £95,000-a-week contract to pledge his next five years to the club.(The Sun) 
Portsmouth will be banned from signing players until they pay money owed to Arsenal and Chelsea for the signings of Lassana Diarra and Glen Johnson respectively. (Various) 
Pompey have been linked to another takeover and their latest potential savious - Levi Kushnir and Balram Chainrai - are close to completing a deal for the club.(Daily Mirror) 
Portsmouth manager Paul Hart has emerged as a shock candidate to take charge at Championship side Reading if the Royals sack under-fire boss Brendan Rodgers.(Daily Mirror) 
Former Birmingham chairman David Gold will step up his bid to buy West Ham next week. (Daily Star)
Tottenham striker Robbie Keane believes his side have caught up with north London rivals Arsenal and a ready to overtake them.(Various) 
Former Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd has criticised Magpies owner Mike Ashley's decision to sell the naming right to St James' Park. (Daily Mirror) 
Sheffield United hope to be granted permission next week to increase the capacity of Bramall Lane to 44,000. (The Sun) 
Bristol City's new stadium plan for a 30,000-seat ground in the Ashton Vale area has been boosted after the council recommended its approval. (The Sun)

AND FINALLY

Blackburn centre-back Christopher Samba lost 10lbs in two days after contracting swine flu. (The Sun) 
Referee Chris Foy mistook Fabio da Silva for identical twin brother Rafael and booked the former instead of the latter in Manchester United's 2-0 Carling Cup victory over Barnsley on Tuesday. United will ask for Fabio's yellow card to be transferred to fellow defender Rafael.(The Sun) 
Nottingham Forest manager Billy Davies has received a written apology from Crystal Palace after they accidentally broadcast commentary from the club's radio station over the PA system during last weekend's 1-1 draw. The commentator accused Davies of "throwing his toys out of his pram". (Daily Star)
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Wednesday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United are edging closer to signing Valencia forwards David Villa and David Silva, with the Spanish club willing to listen to offers. With winger Cristiano Ronaldo offloaded in the summer, Sir Alex Ferguson has cash to spare and the United manager is willing to pay £40m for the duo.(Daily Mirror) 
Liverpool are keen on securing the services of Sampdoria midfielder Koman Vladimir. The Hungarian star is currently on loan at Bari and is valued at £4m.(Daily Mirror) 
Italian side Juventus are all set to make a £6m bid for Manchester City full-back Pablo Zabaleta in January.(The Sun) 
Birmingham City are favourites to sign Rangers striker Kris Boyd, who is out of contract at the end of the season. (Daily Star) 
Leicester City chairman Milan Mandaric has told free agent Edgar Davids he has 24 hours to decide on joining. The Dutch midfielder recently held talks with the Championship side over a possible move.(Daily Mirror) 
Bolton and Celtic are considering a swoop for FC Utrecht's Dutch striker Ricky van Wolfswinkel. (The Sun) 
QPR are targeting 22-year-old Gillingham's £1m-rated striker Simeon Jackson. (Daily Star)

OTHER GOSSIP

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has suggested that Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has too much power and leads a number of Premier League bosses in ganging up on Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez. (The Sun) 
Argentina boss Diego Maradona has tipped Angel Di Maria to be the country's next footballing hero. The 21-year-old Benfica striker was watched recently by Chelsea scouts and Maradona said: "Angel has the quality to be a worldwide superstar."(Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham defender Ledley King is hoping to open up talks on extending his deal at White Hart Lane. The club captain's contract expires at the end of the season and Spurs have an option of a one-year extension. (The Sun)
Hull manager Phil Brown is mulling over selecting striker Jozy Altidore after the 19-year-old American was fined for revealing on social networking site Twitter that he was dropped for the match against Portsmouth for being late. (The Sun) 
Former Portsmouth manager Tony Adams is targeting a return to management and is one of 50 applicants attempting to land the post at League Two outfit Aldershot.(Daily Mirror) 
Former England under-21 boss Peter Taylor is close to linking up with Roy Keane at Ipswich as first-team coach. Taylor, who recently left his post as Wycombe manager, has been recruited by the Tractors boss to improve on their winless start to the season.(Daily Mail) 

AND FINALLY

Manuel Pellegrini's role as Real Madrid coach is under threat after a 4-0 defeat in the fourth round, first leg of the Copa del Rey to Alcorcón from regional Second Division B, Group II. Pellegrini said: "There are no explanations. Alcorcón played very well. We hope our fans can forgive us after this defeat."(The Guardian)
www.bbc.co.uk

Double for decent Tuesday

Tottenham 2 - 0 Everton 

Tottenham shrugged off Everton to book their place in the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup.
Robbie Keane wasted a Spurs chance when his shot hit a post but Tom Huddlestone atoned for his team-mate by half-volleying in David Bentley cross. 
Keane earned a penalty after a foul by Sylvain Distin and, after Tim Howard had saved his initial strike, he scored following a goalmouth melee. 
Everton rarely looked like staging a comeback as Spurs saw out the game. 
The main disappointment for Spurs was the form of Roman Pavlyuchenko, who made a rare start in the first ever meeting between the two sides in the League Cup. 
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp had a visit from Russia manager Guus Hiddink recently to discuss how to get the best out of the striker.
Pavlyuchenko is propping up the Spurs pecking order of forwards and is also struggling to keep his starting place in Hiddink's side.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp on David Bentley:
"He's got to play like that and put that effort in. Aaron (Lennon) has played so well, he's not had the opportunity. 
"His attitude was not as good in training as it could be and I spoke to him about that. 
"He accepts that and is determined to put that right."
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Portsmouth 4 - 0 Stoke 
Frederic Piquionne was the star as Portsmouth put their poor league form to one side to easily qualify for the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup.
The much-changed hosts were always in control after Piquionne headed past Steve Simonsen on 17 minutes. 
The on-loan Lyon striker then turned provider for Danny Webber to cut in and drive home, before stabbing in his side's third after a Simonsen mistake. 
Kanu added a fourth from close range late on to cap a dominant display. 
The Carling Cup has provided some welcome relief from a horrendous start to the Premier League season for Portsmouth, and Paul Hart's side can now look forward to a place in the quarter-finals. 
Tony Pulis had illustrated the Carling Cup's order in his priority list this season by making 10 changes to the side that beat Spurs at the weekend, but Stoke were still surprising lacklustre throughout. 
Piquionne was one of seven changes for Pompey, but he certainly made a strong case for a starting place against Wigan on Saturday.
Portsmouth boss Paul Hart:
"Obviously we need to take a little bit of that into our league performances. The players were determined to put a performance in. 
"I was pleased to get a clean sheet - the more of those we rack up the better chance we have of winning matches. 
"And on top of that, the number of chances we created was pleasing." 
Stoke manager Tony Pulis:
"The four we conceded were very poor goals to give away and were typified by Glenn Whelan falling over the ball for their fourth. 
"When we got in Pompey's final third there were at least five times where our final ball was absolutely shocking. 
"If we'd picked people out we'd have had great opportunities ourselves."
www.bbc.co.uk

Portsmouth - Stoke City

Pompey noticed the worst start in English league competition ever. Considering their performances, I think it’s fair to be said they’re unlucky to not have more points on their balance. Birmingham scored last minute penalty against them, Bolton scored last minute winner, losing six of the eight games they have lost by the single goal margin. They have two positive results in last three games, both on the road Wolverhampton 1-0 and Hull City 0-0. In the previous Cup rounds, they defeated lower division teams Hereford United (4-1 at home) and Carlisle United (3-1 away). For them cup games are the way to satisfy fans and boost the team morale. Beside cup tied Boateng, Smith, Williamson and O'Hara, all others are available and will be presented tonight.

While in Premier League Stoke play over their real capabilities, Cup competition are usually using for the resting the key players. In the previous round, they passed Championship side Blackpool 4-3 (big come back after 1-3) and in round before only managed to sneak past Orient after extra time. Also, record in the league cup is more than poor. They were knocked out by Derby last year. Rochdale the year before. Darlington the year before that, and Mansfield the previous year. League Cup definitely don’t seem as their priority. For tonight’s game, Toni Pulis, announced that he intends to rest some (no less than nine) players and even in some interview warned Stoke fans who travel to Portsmouth not to expect anything near a full strength team out tonight.

Maybe sounds little weird, but Pompey are the favorites here. With every interview, odds have been decreasing from starting 2.40 to recent 2.07 (Pinnacle), but still worth of a bet. Home win.

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Tottenham Hot. - Everton

Tottenham started the recent campaign in manner that announced the different outright than in dozen previous seasons. Six wins, a draw and two defeats against English (world’s) giants Manchester United (1-3 at home) and Chelsea (0-3). But, real bad luck came at Saturday against Stoke City. Spurs were dominating, created a bunch of chances, but lost 0-1 and maybe more important got two more injuries. Jonathan Woodgate (once again) and Aaron Lennon picked up the knocks and there no reason for risking with them in Cup game. Jermaine Defoe’s ban applied for cup competition as well, while Jermaine Jenas has four yellow cards and the question is will “Arry” keep him for Saturday’s North London derby against Arsenal. I think he won’t as he has better option available (returned from international Wilson Palacios, for example). Expensive investment that has been warming the bench, Roman Pavlyuchenko will get the chance, as well as winger David Bentley and some of defenders Michael Dawson, Alan Hutton, Gareth Bale and Kyle Naughton. Spurs have a depth, pay attention on cup competitions and they have failed to reach at least the quarter-finals just once in their last six attempts.

Everton have been facing a lots of problems in recent campaign. Three wins in starting nine rounds is not something that their fans had on the mind in August. Main reason for that is long injury list. Phil Neville, Phil Jagielka, Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta, four keys are long time injured. Aiyegbeni Yakubu, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Joseph Yobo, Leighton Baines and Leon Osman are unfit and under the question mark for tonight’s encounter. Nine players. Also, playing in Europe doesn’t help. In the midweek, Everton crashed in Portugal (Benfica 0-5), three days later lost on the road vs. Bolton 2-3. For the weekend will host Aston Villa, then again Europe, Premiership… Even with a full squad this schedule would demand more than a decent effort. And looking on the future games, I see this one as the easiest to be “sacrificed”. Moyes, as Redknapp will change the cards and give the chance to some youngsters (like in Portugal). Louis Saha is in decent shape and he should be the biggest threat to Spurs. Players take any moment to speak about their fighting spirit, but I see them as clear underdogs here. Except their semi-final appearance in 2007., they only once reached the last eight in 21 attempts.

Both managers will give a chance to some players that haven’t been playing a lot, lately. But, the difference is, Spurs' fringe players are actually very good. Healthy competition for a spot in starting eleven should produce a nice display tonight and home win. Pinnacle offer 1.79. It's a deal.

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One more before the kick-off.

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Tuesday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Chelsea lead the chase to sign £42m-rated striker Sergio Aguero after Atletico Madrid admitted they are ready to listen to offers for the 21-year-old.(The Sun) 
Villarreal goalkeeper Diego Lopez is a £15m target for Manchester United. (The Sun)
Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole is set to ignore interest from Tottenham and commit himself to the Blues.(Daily Mirror) 
Everton are set to make a January bid for Gimnasia de la Plata's Argentine midfielder Fabian Rinaudo. (The Sun) 
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is set to raid his old club by making a £4m bid for Wigan defender Maynor Figueroa in January. (Daily Mirror) 
Bruce is also looking to sign Deportivo Toluca's Mexican winger Nestor Calderon in January. (Daily Mail) 
Liverpool have joined the race to sign Spartak Moscow's Georgian midfielder Zhano Ananidze, who is also being tracked by Arsenal.(Daily Mail)
Blackburn are ready to snap up midfielder Camel Meriem, who is a free agent after leaving Monaco. (Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted he was wrong to brand referee Alan Wiley "unfit" after his side's 2-2 draw with Sunderland earlier in October and will plead guilty to a Football Association charge of improper conduct. (Daily Mail) 
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has rejected a new £80m offer from Tyneside businessman Barry Moat to buy the club, consisting of £60m up front followed by a later payment of £20m, insisting he wants the full asking price in one payment. (Daily Telegraph) 
American billionaire Stan Kroenke requires 636 more shares to trigger a mandatory takeover bid of Arsenal after he spent £85,000 on 10 shares on Monday to increase his stake to 28.87%. (The Times) 
England manager Fabio Capello admits he is "tormented" by Manchester United striker Michael Owen's constant omission from his national squad.(The Times) 
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand may be dropped from the first team because of fears that the 30-year-old is past his best. (The Sun) 
Former Notts County defender Sol Campbell, who walked out on the club in September, has been told he must agree to a five year 'gagging order' before they agree to release his registration. (Daily Express) 
Scottish Premier League side Rangers have until the end of the season to find a buyer, or risk losing half their squad. (Daily Record)
Ipswich manager Roy Keane is set appoint former Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor as his new assistant at Portman Road. (Daily Mirror) 
Former Nottingham Forest manager Colin Calderwood has turned down an approach from Tranmere and will instead sign an 18-month coaching deal with Newcastle United. (Daily Star)

AND FINALLY

The cost of watching football may soar as top clubs face an extra £12m a year in stadium taxes. (The Sun)
Kasabian broke away from rock star traditions by celebrating their Q award for best album by watching Leicester City beat Reading to climb up to fifth in the Championship table. (The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Monday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Everton have joined the race for Middlesbrough's £6m-rated winger Adam Johnson.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City striker David Ball is wanted on loan by injury-hit Championship side Sheffield United.(Daily Mirror) 
Former Celtic manager Gordon Strachan will put Huddersfield keeper Alex Smithies at the top of his wish-list when he takes over as boss of Middlesbrough.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United right-back Danny Simpson, who is on loan at Newcastle United, is ready to quit Old Trafford.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City face competition for Barcelona striker Thierry Henry, with the former Arsenal star also wanted by Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls.(Daily Mirror) 
Coventry's number two keeper Dimi Konstantopoulos says he may seek a loan move away from the Ricoh Arena if his lack of match action continues. (Daily Telegraph) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has revealed that it was only on the team coach going to Anfield that he decided to use Spanish striker Fernando Torres from the start against Manchester United. (Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp blamed suspended Jermain Defoe for his side's defeat to Stoke, saying the in-form striker would have made the difference on Saturday. (The Sun) 
Portsmouth manager Paul Hart says he will be responsible for improving the club's fortunes over the coming months and not new director of football Avram Grant.(Daily Express) 
Meanwhile, Portsmouth have received a £15m 'loan' from Israeli property developer Levi Kushnir as new owner Ali Al-Faraj attempts to restructure the club financially.(The Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Football could be heading for a swine flu crisis after Blackburn stars David Dunn and Chris Samba were diagnosed with the virus. (Daily Mirror) 
Millwall have vowed to ban for life the fan who taunted Leeds United supporters by wearing a Galatasaray shirt during Saturday's League One match. Two Leeds fans were stabbed to death the day before the Uefa Cup semi-final against the Turkish club in 2000.(The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Sunday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Liverpool have been stunned by the news that midfielder Javier Mascherano has rejected a new contract, with the Argentine pushing for a move to Barcelona.
It won't help soothe the worries of manager Rafa Benitez as he prepares for the clash with Manchester United on the back of four successive defeats.(The Star) 
Meanwhile, with doubts continuing over the future of the Reds' American owners, there are growing fears that a lack of trophies this season at Anfield will lead to the exit of Spaniard Fernando Torres.(Sunday Mirror) 
Chelsea are considering an £18m move for Napoli's attacking midfielder Marek Hamsik if their transfer ban is lifted in January.(Sunday Times) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is monitoring 17-year-old Spartak Moscow midfielder Zhano Ananidze - the player dubbed the 'next Georgi Kinkladze'.(goal.com) 
Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal have been shocked after being told they will have to pay £86m to land Porto's Brazilian striker Givanildo Vieira de Souza. (Sunday Express)
Everton have joined the race to sign Middlesbrough's highly rated winger Adam Johnson, who has also attracted interest from Sunderland.(News of the World) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Gerard Houllier is set to return to the Premier League at Birmingham City as new owner Carson Yeung weighs up managerial options, with Alex McLeish currently holding the reins. (News of the World) 
Portsmouth are to be thrown a £15m lifeline by two businessmen from Israel and Hong Kong in another twist in the Fratton Park side's fortunes.(Mail on Sunday) 
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has been invited to end his career at Bournemouth. Cherries chairman Eddie Mitchell said: "He is a legend here and we would love to have him around." (Sunday Express)
Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has rejected the chance to become assistant manager at Portsmouth.(News of the World) 
Leicester City have offered veteran Dutch midfielder Edgar Davids a performance-related deal but are awaiting confirmation on his current fitness levels. (News of the World)
Jermaine Pennant, who joined Real Zaragoza from Liverpool in July, believes England coach Fabio Capello should make him England's regular right-winger. (Sunday Times) 

AND FINALLY

A happy story for Sunday with West Ham's Calum Davenport - who almost lost his legs following a knife attack in August - being told he will play again despite a 15-inch scar on his leg.(News of the World) 
England coach Fabio Capello has developed a deep affection for London since moving to the capital and says his favourite musical is Mamma Mia. "We've all got Abba songs in our heads after all," he says.(Sunday Times) 
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed why he has succeeded in football in the UK.The 60-year-old Frenchman said: "My secret is adapting to the country I am in. Here I eat roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. There are people who visit different countries and don't adapt. It is a must."(Sunday Express)
www.bbc.co.uk

Saturday summary

Preston 2 - 2 Middlesbrough

Billy Jones scored a last-minute header to snatch a point for Preston.
Middlesbrough dominated the opening half and took the lead when Gary O'Neil, who had already been denied by Andy Lonergan, scored with a free-kick. 
Paul Parry levelled with a neat finish from a tight angle after Brad Jones has parried Jon Parkin's header. 
Adam Johnson restored Boro's lead with a low shot into the bottom corner and Rhys Williams hit the post but Jones converted a Ross Wallace free-kick. 
The match may well be Colin Cooper's only game in charge of Boro before the club make a permanent appointment as successor to Gareth Southgate. 
On the evidence of the first-half, Boro should have taken all three points from the encounter. 
The visiting team, encouraged by considerable away support, created a series of decent openings. 
But Preston rallied after the break and their perseverance was rewarded with their late equaliser - although the draw means that North End drop out of the top six. 
Preston manager Alan Irvine:
"I'm not over-happy. We have got a point, but I look for more than just a result. There are a lot of things we will need to take out of that game and improve upon. 
"We were poor in the first half. I was praying for half-time to come to address some of the issues that needed addressing. 
"I thought we got the response almost from the kick-off in the second half. We then started to stretch the game out a bit better than we had in the first half. 
"They deserve enormous credit for keeping going. It's a fantastic quality to have." 
Middlesbrough caretaker manager Colin Cooper:
"Unfortunately it comes a bit too much of a coincidence when you concede two to three late goals. 
"We should be sitting fairly close to the top of the table with the points that have gone begging. 
"Hopefully we will learn and not make mistakes in a game that we should have won comfortably."

.

Sheff Utd 3 - 4 Cardiff 
Hat-trick hero Peter Whittingham is mobbed by his Cardiff team-mates
Cardiff went second in the Championship in a dramatic, action-packed game.
Jay Bothroyd seized on a rebound to put Cardiff ahead, but Mark Hudson's back-header let Darius Henderson equalise. 
Peter Whittingham's penalty restored Cardiff's lead after Matthew Kilgallon fouled Bothroyd, only for Henderson to strike again with a looping header. 
Whittingham sealed the win, converting a flick-on then poking in his hat-trick, only for James Harper's late goal to give the Blades forlorn hope. 
Even after Harper struck in the 90th minute to make it 4-3, there was still time for the home side to carve out another chance and they thought they had equalised. 
But Stephen Quinn's effort was ruled out for off-side, much to Cardiff's relief as they leap-frogged West Bromwich Albion to become Newcastle's main Championship challengers.
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell:
"Things are tough at the moment, but the squad players that came in gave me a great shift and I can't knock them. 
"It was a good performance and on another day it would have been enough to get us a point. 
"It's tough when you are losing your experienced players and until we get them back it will be tough. 
"But I think we deserved more than we got out of the game, that's for sure and the players showed terrific spirit to keep coming back." 
Cardiff City manager Dave Jones:
"The first half was a bit crazy... so I'm sure Kevin [Blades boss Blackwell] will be disappointed with his defending as much as I am with ours. 
"I just felt every time we got our noses in front we went and did something stupid. 
"But our fourth goal today you won't see many better, our moving, our passing, our crispness and the finish. 
"And well deserved for Whitts [Whittingham] to get his hat-trick... it was a tough game."
.

Tottenham 0 - 1 Stoke

Glenn Whelan struck late to earn Stoke victory over Spurs, who will ruefully look back at missed chances.
Aaron Lennon's curling shot was well kept out by Steve Simonsen, while Peter Crouch's header was acrobatically cleared off the line by James Beattie. 
Niko Kranjcar's drive hit the foot of the post as Spurs pressed. 
But Spurs, hit by an early injury to Jonathan Woodgate and a late one to Lennon, were stunned when Whelan smashed in an angled shot to win it. 
England winger Lennon was forced off with 10 minutes to play, leaving Spurs to finish the match with 10 men as they had already used all their substitutes. 
And as Tottenham were stretched, Stoke took advantage to pull off a smash and grab they barely deserved.
The match marked the first anniversary of Harry Redknapp taking over as Spurs boss, and there is no doubt he has transformed the club. 
A year on from his appointment, Redknapp has taken the Londoners from relegation candidates to a side that would go top of the table with victory against Stoke. 
It should have been extra incentive for Tottenham to turn on the style against opposition who had won only one of their last five Premier League matches.
But instead, they failed to make the most of their greater possession and territory and got hit with a sucker punch. 
They will also be frustrated by the injury to Woodgate, who managed only a 13-minute cameo in his first start of the season.
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp on injured Aaron Lennon walking off with 14 minutes left:
"I hoped he could stay on but he couldn't. I told him we'd only have 10 men and could he play on, but he said his ankle was too sore. 
"I don't want to cause an issue. It's not about England - he's got big games coming up for Tottenham." 
Stoke boss Tony Pulis:
"It was probably our best result because we were playing against a top, top side. They have all the ammo you need to win games and they will still probably have a great season. 
"For this football club, we have to be in the Premier League for three years before we push on. We are still living in portacabins at the training ground."
www.bbc.co.uk

Tottenham Hot. - Stoke City

After nine rounds left, Tottenham hold the third place and after many years seem as a serious contender to break top-four of English football end earn a Champions League spot. With “’Arry” in charge, team finally looks more than competitive. Only two failures came after the clashes against probably the best league clubs Man.Utd.(1-3 at home) and Chelsea (0-3 on the road) and those are the only two games where Spurs didn’t score at least twice! Also, they look in a great shape recently, with three wins (Preston North End 5-1, Burnley 5-0 and Portsmouth 2-1) and a draw (Bolton Wanderers 2-2) in last four competitive games. Main story in English press is missing of excellent Jermaine Defoe who got a red card against Pompey. In my opinion it won’t be such a big lose, ‘cause his replacement Peter Crouch could be more useful against the team who will defend with 10 players, which Stoke surely plan to perform. Jonathan Woodgate played in a midweek friendly against Dag&Red and could make his first-team comeback this weekend, while Modric stays absent with a broken leg. 

Stoke have been noticing their dream start of the recent campaign. And while their tough performance at Britannia Stadium were expected, their recent good run on the road with three undefeated encounters (all three draws, Birmingham City, Bolton Wanderers and Everton) looks a little bit surprising. They play tactically almost perfect with strong defense displays (Huth, Shawcross, Collins and Faye back), waiting a chance from some set piece or counter attack. However, those chances haven’t come too often, Potters have some problems to score on the road and they also don’t have an away win so far. Considering statistics as well, they’ll have to wait more for it, as Stoke have only beaten Tottenham once in 29 attempts at White Hart Lane - a 2-0 win in 1975. They’ll have a chance to take something from this match as far as they manage to keep the clean sheet. Missing of key defender, Robert Huth, who has been banned for three matches for punching West Ham defender Matthew Upson, surely won’t help. Irish Glenn Whelan should return, but fellow midfielder Liam Lawrence is doubtful after missing training with a virus.

Tottenham possess more than decent quality, big spendings finally started to produce some results on the field, team looks in a great shape and they’re clear favorites here. Stoke have decent run of results, but the problem is they play over their real capabilities. Drop in form is unavoidable and I think it starts at White Hart Lane. My pick is home win with -1 handicap, bet365 offer 1.75.

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Sheffield United - Cardiff City

After they made an encouraging start to this campaign, Sheffield United's results have come up short in recent weeks and Blades find themselves on 13th place. They noticed last win in steel-city derby (3-2) more than a month ago. Since then, two home draws (Ipswich 3-3, stoppage time equalizer and Doncaster 1-1) and three away defeats (Swansea 1-2, Scunthorpe 1-3 and Blackpool 0-3). Main reason for this sinking is recent injury crisis, ten regular players are sidelined and Blades currently can not resist against any opponent in second tier. Also, fact they have 13 new players comparing with previous season shouldn’t be forgotten. To make the things even worse, took care the only forward Darius Henderson who got a knock and he’s doubtful for the game. Club have signed free-agent striker, Henri Camara, he will probably start the match, but his fitness isn’t on proper level and the question is how much he can really help. While they’ll have a lots of problems to score against tough side as Cardiff surely is, defense line looks extremely shaky conceding six goals in last two encounters. Considering their current situation, I’m absolutely sure they would accept one point today.

The Blue Birds hold the third place on the table with just a point less than league leaders WBA. After the good start of the season, club fell in injury crisis and noticed five competitive defeats in six games! When injury list started to decrease, results became brighter. Cardiff have three wins (Derby 6-1, Watford 4-0 and Coventry 2-0) and a draw (Crystal Palace 1-1) in last four games. But, the most important thing is manager Dave Jones should have a strong squad to choose from, with a lot of his players now available again. His “key of the keys” Ross McCormack is fully fit and ready, defender Kevin McNaughton, midfielder Mark Kennedy and striker Warren Feeney are also available. Only missing player is midfielder Kelvin Etuhu who could be fit and back in training after the next international break. Excellent striker Michael Chopra is the leading scorer in the division with 11 goals, and United face another goal threat in midfielder Pete Whittingham, who has scored six times in the Welsh side's last five matches. Win at Bramall Lane would boost team confidence and maybe launch them on the top. 

I don't agree with the bookies that favor the home side and see the value here. Even if United don’t have injury problems (injury catastrophe sounds more appropriate), Cardiff would be at least equal. Instead more reasons for away win, I'll say few words about my concerns here. It’s a derby clash which usually means very nervous game. Cardiff have three players sent off so far, which is the most by any club. Many recovered players at visitors’ side could make a damage to the team balance that have noticed good run even without them. Also, home ground and the fact the both sides wouldn’t be unhappy with undecided outcome force me to cover a draw instead going on clear away win. Dnb is arround 2.20, even +0.25 on Cardiff is well paid.

.

One more later.


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Saturday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has emerged as a £30m-target for Real Madrid next summer.(The Sun) 
Tottenham are battling it out with Inter Milan for 18-year-old Ghanaian full-back Gladson Awako.(Daily Mirror) 
Chelsea are ready to embark on a £60m spending spree in January if Fifa suspend the transfer ban hanging over them, with Inter Milan's Patrick Vieira, Benfica winger Angel di Maria, Valencia's David Villa and Aston Villa's Emile Heskey all being considered.(Daily Express) 
Roma's Daniele de Rossi, Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero and Manchester City talisman Robinho could also be on Chelsea's shopping list in January with the Blues losing key men to the African Cup of Nations.(The Sun) 
Leeds have slapped a £3m price tag on striker Jermaine Beckford in a bid to keep him at Elland Road until the end of the season.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal and AC Milan have joined the race to sign West Ham's Swiss utility man Valon Behrami.(Daily Star) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Rafael Benitez is receiving words of wisdom from Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish to try to resolve his problems at Anfield.(The Sun) 
Arsene Wenger admits he feels sorry he let West Ham's Matthew Upson leave Arsenal and says he has thought about bringing him back to the club.(The Independent) 
Mark Hughes has conceded that Manchester City defender Micah Richards has plateaued as a player and currently has little chance of forcing his way into Fabio Capello's plans for South Africa next summer.(Independent) 
Boss Fabio Capello insisted he would not be happy if England won a match courtesy of a dive by one of his players.(Daily Mail) 
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Michael Owen deserves a hero's reception when he runs out for Manchester United at Anfield tomorrow and has claimed the former Liverpool striker remains one of the best goalscorers in world football.(Daily Mail) 
Nemanja Vidic says he has put his Liverpool nightmares of last season behind him and is ready to restore his reputation as one of the Premier League's finest defenders.(Daily Mirror) 
Fabio Capello says the coaching style he hopes will inspire England to World Cup glory draws heavily from techniques he has picked up from interest in volleyball, baseball, rugby union and ice hockey.(Guardian) 
Rafa Benitez maintains he is the right man to lead Liverpool and believes his vision for the club will still result in a golden future.(Daily Express) 

AND FINALLY

Manchester United fans plan to arrive for their clash with Liverpool at Anfield sporting masks of United legend Eric Cantona, in reference to a banner unfurled in 1994 which read: "Au revoir, Cantona and Man United. Come back when you've won 18." Other fans plan to wear T-shirts showing former Kop idol Michael Owen celebrating a goal with the tag: "Welcome to Manchester".(The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Preston North End - Middlesbrough

After a run of three games without a win and especially after London humiliation against Queens Park (0-4), Preston put a decent display on the road and beat Sheff.Wed. (2-1). John Parkin scored a winner for a desperately needed win and staying in the top six. They have almost the same team from the previous season (finished sixth), all lines in the squad are well balanced, harmed dignity has been recovered and in my opinion they’ll be (along with Cardiff) the most serious threat to ex-Premiership crew (Newcastle, WBA and Middlesbrough). Only missing is departure on loan of excellent Sean St Ledger to ‘Boro (won’t play against own club) because the financial reasons. Good news came from medical service as Lilywhites have been boosted by the news that skipper Callum Davidson (defense) should make his long-awaited return from a hamstring injury. Also, absence of the key midfielder Paul Parry seems finished as he was an unused substitute at Sheffield and he should play. No new injury or suspension worries for boss Alan Irvine and best eleven should appear.

Middlesbrough started the season in Championship with clear intention for returning in the Premier League. And all started well as club was placed at the top of the table. Then crisis at Riverside and three consecutive home defeats without a single goal scored (WBA 0-5, Leicester City 0-1 and Watford 0-1). 'Boro bounced back at mid-week against Derby County as midfielder Adam Johnson scored twice for a 2-0 win. Then public was hit by the news that Gareth Southgate has been sacked. Well, it’s not about his capability to lead one team on 'Boro’s level, I first claimed he should chose more appropriate profession. The problem is the moment that seems wrong. Team finally won at home, players were pointing the team spirit, fans promising full support and I expect at least missing of positive reaction at Deepdale. Future boss (will be appointed in coming days), Gordon Strachan, will watch the game, but I doubt he’ll see too many good things. Team that will be led by coach Colin Cooper will miss mentioned defender Sean St Ledger, another centre back Seb Hines is a doubt, while skipper defender Emanuel Pogatetz could return after his knee injury. 

This will be the clash of two serious contenders for Premiership. Usually I would ignore any tought about betting on such game, but moment when it happens gives an advantage to the lads from Deepdale. And defense line without St Ledger (and maybe Pogatetz) will have a lots of problems to stop outstanding John Parkin. Home win (Pinnacle 2.70) should be considered as a gamble, while my advise is dnb (1.90 also Pinnacle). 

.

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Friday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Arsenal have targeted Inter Milan frontman Mario Balotelli, with their scouts believed to have watched the £20m-rated star last week. Manager Arsene Wenger is also understood to be keen on Ajax's 21-year-old defender Gregory van der Wiel.(The Sun) 
The Gunners are also tracking Belgian 18-year-old midfielder Eden Hazard, who currently plays for French club Lille.(Daily Mirror) 
Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford could be on for a shock move to Portuguese side Sporting Braga.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City boss Mark Hughes has begun talks with Bulgarian midfielder Martin Petrov over a new contract which expires next summer. (Daily Express) 
Aston Villa and Birmingham are going head-to-head in trying to grab the services of Cheltenham 18-year-old striker Theo Lewis. (Daily Star)

OTHER GOSSIP

Liverpool fans, unhappy with co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, are planning a 10,000-strong protest march on Sunday ahead of the Manchester United match.Fans' group Spirit of Shankly is believed to be drumming up support after hearing the Americans will be attending their crunch game. The Reds are on a run of four successive defeats for the Anfield club amid continuing unrest regarding the club's future.(Daily Mail) 
Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina has been assured by referees' chief Keith Hackett that security staff at Anfield are on red alert to deal with any balloons and beach balls.(Daily Mail) 
England have tried to revive their bid to host the 2018 World Cup by including Germany captain Michael Ballack on the list of ambassadors. It is a list without any players from England's 1966 World Cup winning squad.(Daily Express) 
Sven Goran Eriksson's former assistant Hans Backe is favourite to replace Ian McParland as manager of Notts County. (Daily Mail) 

AND FINALLY

Argentina boss Diego Maradona has refused to say sorry for his outburst live on TV, aimed at the media who have criticised the team on their way to scraping into the World Cup finals.
"I don't regret it," he said. "I apologise to the ladies but not to those who talk about football on TV."(The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Chat box answer

Hi IUKA,

Benfica-Everton

Portugal side will play with the strongest squad. They're currently in a great shape and need three points tonight.

Everton will have to cope with big injury problems in defence line. Yobo, Jagielka, Neill, Heitinga are all out. Moyes will also give a chance to some youngsters and starting eleven is a mistery.

If you have to bet on international games, this is my suggestion, but careful with the stake. Home win and over.

.

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Thursday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Tottenham will make a £6m move for Manchester City midfielder Michael Johnson in the January transfer window. (The Sun) 
Birmingham will join the race to sign Emile Heskey if the 31-year-old England striker quits Aston Villa to boost his World Cup hopes.(The Sun) 
Sunderland will make a move for Middlesbrough's England Under-21 winger Adam Johnson, 22, in January. (The Sun) 
Stoke manager Tony Pulis is ready to make an opening £1.5m bid for Huddersfield's highly rated young goalkeeper Alex Smithies. The Terriers rate the stopper at about £4m.(Daily Mirror) 
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill is interested in signing Barnsley's teenage striker Reuben Noble-Lazarus. The 16-year-old became the youngest Football League player at 15 years and 45 days in a game against Ipswich in October 2008. (The Sun) 
Arsenal are leading the chase for 14-year-old Montenegro midfielder Nikola Zvrko. Chelsea and Barcelona are also interested in the youngster. (Daily Mail) 
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell is weighing up whether to bring in former Wigan striker Henri Camara, who is a free agent, to boost his injury-hit squad.(Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Rafael Benitez's job as Liverpool manager is safe for now because the club cannot afford to sack him. The Spaniard has four and a half years to run on the £4.5m-a-season contract he signed in March, so sacking him could cost about £20m.(Daily Mail)
Former Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann, who was approached a couple of years ago to succeed Rafael Benitez at Liverpool, has reiterated his desire to manage in the Premier League. (The Sun) 
Former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri has admitted he would love to come back to England and manage in the Premier League again. (Daily Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Germany's World Cup players have been warned to expect to wear bullet-proof vests if they venture away from the team hotel at the 2010 finals in South Africa.(The Daily Telegraph)
www.bbc.co.uk

Wednesday's gossip column


TRANSFER GOSSIP

Tottenham are lining up a £14m deal for Internacional's Brazilian midfielder Sandro, who is also a target for Spanish duo Real Madrid and Barcelona.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal are keeping tabs on 21-year-old Ajax full-back Gregory van der Wiel, who recently broke into the Netherlands team.(Daily Mirror) 
Blackburn are monitoring England striker Emile Heskey's situation at Aston Villa. The 31-year-old is struggling to secure a regular first-team place at Villa Park but Rovers may come in to boost his hopes of clinching a berth in the 2010 World Cup squad. (The Sun) 
Chelsea want to sign Ghanaian striker Dominic Adiyiah, who plays for Fredrikstad FK in Norway, if the transfer ban at Stamford Bridge is lifted.(The Sun) 
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish is ready to make Tottenham defender Gareth Bale one of the first signings of new Blues owner Carson Yeung's era in a £3m deal. (Daily Mirror) 
Sheffield United are keen to make on-loan keeper Mark Bunn's move to Bramall Lane permanent after Paddy Kenny lost his appeal against a nine-month drugs ban.(Daily Mirror) 
Aston Villa are set to launch a bid to sign striker Jay Bothroyd from Cardiff if England forward Emile Heskey leaves in January. (Daily Star) 
Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford is a surprise target for Portuguese side Benfica in the January transfer window. (Daily Star) 
Portsmouth are giving a trial to former Millwall and Plymouth striker Cherno Samba.(Daily Mail) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Former Tottenham managers Terry Venables and Ossie Ardiles believe that current Spurs boss Harry Redknapp will lead the club into the Champions League.(Daily Mirror)
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has ended his feud with midfielder Nigel Reo Coker. The pair had a training ground bust-up in September and Reo Coker has not started a game since but O'Neill hugged the 25-year-old in the dressing room before the draw with Manchester City on 5 October as an indication the incident was behind them.(Daily Mirror) 
Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan, whose Atletico Madrid side play Chelsea in the Champions League on Wednesday, says that the Blues have overtaken his former side Manchester United as the best team in the Premier League.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has vowed to help under-fire defensive teammate Rio Ferdinand get back to his best with United and England.(Daily Mirror) 
Everton manager David Moyes has slammed the Football League for their lack of respect for the Carling Cup, suggesting sponsors Carling must ask serious questions about the way sides are being forced to field weaker teams in the early rounds due to commitments in other competitions.(Daily Mirror) 
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has welcomed this summer's World Cup in South Africa as it provides extra incentive for his English players to perform for the Hammers this season.(The Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Chelsea's Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti, who switched from AC Milan in the summer, has joked that driving in England is tougher than managing the Blues. (Daily Mirror) 
Blackpool manager Ian Holloway missed the first of Blackpool's three goals in their home win over Sheffield United last night, as he was on a 'comfort break'. "I missed that one. I get so nervous these days after a year off, I sank three bottles of water and my bladder isn't what it used to be," said Holloway, whose side are now just two points off the top of the Championship in fifth place. (Daily Mail)
www.bbc.co.uk

Complete success


Blackpool 3 - 0 Sheff Utd

Blackpool continued their fine recent form after a convincing victory against struggling Sheffield United.
On-loan centre-half Marcel Seip gave the hosts the lead on the hour after rising to meet David Vaughan's corner. 
Jason Euell capped a flowing move from Ian Holloway's side to make it 2-0 nine minutes later before Charlie Adam drilled home with eight minutes left. 
Darius Henderson and Matt Kilgallon both missed good chances but the visitors struggled to get going. 
Blackpool stay in the play-off places following the victory and remain unbeaten at home this season, while United have now gone five league games without a win. 
Blackpool manager Ian Holloway on rotating his squad:
"I always try to make changes, because I believe I have now got a squad with strength in depth. 
"The new lads took us in at 0-0 and the guys who came on made a difference. We weathered the storm and stepped it up. 
"I'll carry on with my policy of making changes, because each match in the Championship is horses for courses." 
Sheffield United boss Kevin Blackwell:
"We are going through a bad time, but I feel our work ethic is good and the spirit is there. 
"Things didn't go for us when it mattered. We were the better side in the first half, but the first goal made a difference and Blackpool got on top. 
"I've got injuries. But things will start to happen, I'm not worried."

.

Bristol City 3 - 1 Plymouth

Bristol City scored three goals in six minutes to see off Championship strugglers Plymouth.
It took the home side 73 minutes to take the lead when Danny Haynes slid in to convert a Jamie McAllister cross. 
Jamie Mackie drilled home to level two minutes later but, almost immediately, McAllister set up Jamie McCombe to head City back in front. 
Nicky Maynard completed the victory when he fired a thunderbolt past the helpless keeper Roman Larrieu. 
Bristol City manager Gary Johnson:
"I didn't think we did enough in the first half to deserve to be in front, but the lads kept going and it became a bit of a chess match. 
"We are keeping ourselves on the coat-tails of the leaders in this league and just have to keep going. 
"I still believe we have the squad to maintain a challenge." 
Plymouth boss Paul Sturrock:
"We keep having these zany moments, it's unlike any team I have been involved with in the past. 
"I keep feeling sorry for my players because they put in a lot of effort, but we can't keep losing concentration when it comes to picking up opponents. 
"There were a lot of good performances, yet we end up 3-1 losers. Saturday's game with Ipswich is now huge for us."
www.bbc.co.uk

Blackpool - Sheffield United

With Saturday’s win against Plymouth (2-0), Blackpool extended their incredible run of five straight competitive wins at home (nine without a defeat) and just two goals conceded (ten scored). Squad that possess a decent quality and small stadium with fanatic fans made from Bloomfield Road a place that nobody likes to visit. With a single goal in both periods, Blacpool left Plymouth without a chance and in some period it looked they were doing the job in “second gear”. Winning streak gave them safety, at home play without too much respect and surely won’t be afraid of Championship giants (already beat Newcastle, 2-1). Defenders Danny Coid, Ian Evatt, and strikers Daniel Nardiello, Gary Taylor-Fletcher and Stephen McPhee are all long term absentees for the hosts. Talented winger Ishmel Demontagnac made his comeback from injury against Plymouth and although he was sent off for violent conduct in a reserve match last week, his three-match ban does not yet come into play and he could feature. So, Blackpool boss Ian Holloway should start with the same side that beat Plymouth.

Blades came in the recent season as one of the main contenders for promotion. Squad that wasn’t changed too much during the transfer market possesses enough quality to fight against the best clubs in the second tier. But, problems came very soon. Currently, United are without a win in four games and have lost their last three away matches. Also, the fact they conceded eight goals in those three games (Coventry City 2-3, Swansea City 1-2, Scunthorpe United 1-3) sounds incredible when we talk about last season best defense line in Championship. Problem started, as usual, when one of the central defensive duo Morgan- Kilgallon is missing. First Chris Morgan got an injury. Recovered, but then Matthew Kilgallon fell in the “contract negotiation crisis”. Recently, he requested a transfer. Meanwhile, injury list has been growing. Manager Kevin Blackwell (his position is very insecure these days, btw.) couldn’t count on 10 first-team players for Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Scunthorpe - and could only name six substitutes on the bench! New name on the list is defender Andrew Davies, while team morale is needless to say very low. Kevin Blackwell will probably set his last season favorite 4-5-1 formation and expectations are tight game is in front, with small number of goals.

United’s only advantage are club’s reputation and the fact they’re unbeaten in eight league games against Blackpool (five wins, three draws). Home side has a clear advantage and only limitation for me is the fact this is the mid-week game. I take “draw no bet” option with the high stake (Pinnacle 1.77) and home win (again Pinnacle 2.52) as a gamble.

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Bristol City - Plymouth Argyle

Bristol City currently hold 9th position with one point far prom 6th Preston and considering the squad quality it’s very probable they’ll finish somewhere around play-off zone, or maybe in it. While they still haven’t won on the road (four draws, two defeats), home performances are outstanding (four wins, two draws) and 14 from possible 18 points have been noticed. Main characteristic of their performance is a game on small number of goals (only Swansea have produced less). They heavily lose the games and when take a lead (usually in the first half) keep the result waiting for some counter attack to finish the job. That style of play cost them three points at Saturday against one of the main contenders for moving in the third tier (beside tonight’s opponent) – Peterborough (1-1 at home) as George Boyd equalized deep in the stoppage time. Now, at Ashton Gate come weak Pilgrims and there is no room for another failure. Won’t be any keeping the minimal lead and the Robins will try to decide the game as soon as possible. Defender Liam Fontaine will be out for a further three weeks with an ankle problem, midfielder Brian Wilson is still out with a shin injury, but Bristol City have no new injury worries and same eleven from weekend are expected. 

After the run of 7 (seven) consecutive defeats, Plymouth noticed two victories, over the fellows from the bottom - Peterborough United (2-1 at home) and against “you’ll never know what to expect from us” - Scunthorpe United (2-1 on the road). Another defeat (at Blackpool, 0-2) turned them back into relegation zone. After the game, boss Paul Sturrock stated the main reason for defeat is 11 hours spent in the bus! Hm…,ok. The problem is squad didn’t return to Devon after the game and spent two days at Stoke-on-Trent (half of the distance). So, players won’t be much more rested than at Saturday. Sturrock announced intention to fresh the squad with new players (what players?!) but the question is are the lads from the bench capable to improve the team’s shape and help to resist at one hell’s place, as Ashton Gate surely is. Club’s officials have insisted that Paul Sturrock's job as manager is safe (those statements usually means opposite) despite the arrival of former Argyle and England striker Paul Mariner as head coach. And Blackpool defeat didn’t help. However, lack of quality, tired players, bad dressing room atmosphere and manager who lost control should be the main reasons (in that order) why I (guess nobody) don’t expect them to take anything from this encounter. Except mentioned freshening the squad, no other injury concerns for Sturrock.

The Robins got a slap from Posh at Saturday. Now they’re focused and full of rage. Will play in front the own fans and three points are at most. On the other half of the pitch will be week and tired Plymouth. This game will be uncertain as far as visitors manage to not concede a goal. Not so long I think. Home win (1.75 at Pinnacle) and handicap as gamble.

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One more pick before the kick-off. Cheers.


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