Arsenal - Wigan

There’re plenty of questions which team Wenger will field for this game. Against Spurs and Newcastle, he named stronger squad than usual for a Cup game. Personally, I don’t have a problem with that. Any Arsenal’s eleven are pretty strong entity. Fabregas is injured. Chamakh will be rested, but there’s Bendtner (although I don’t like to base a bet on him). Arshavin, Wilshere and Rosicky, all should appear from the start. Arsenals haven’t won anything for five years (my honest opinion they’ll blow up in Premier, once again) and this could be a golden opportunity to lift the trophy.

Oppositely from Wenger, Martinez has plenty of reasons for a decent headache. Injury list consists some of his key players and space for rotation is not so big. He announces a possibility to give a chance to some youngsters. Believe him or don’t.  After great run of results they entered a crisis and defeat at West Ham was their fourth consecutive on the road and Wigan dropped into dangerous zone. Despite they knocked Arsenal at semi-final 2006, they have seven consecutive defeats on their soil. Adding on that Wigan has a label of really poor travellers and this is less important Cup, I have no reason to believe Martinez carries a serious hope for this encounter. Stoke at home should be more important concern.

I think we won’t see any surprise here. Gunners’ talent and desire for proving themselves should be too much for Wigan. Home win and handicap for me.

Bet: Arsenal -2ah
Odd: 2.26 188bet
Stake: 7/10

I'm curious about Huddersfield. Maybe a bet, but little later.

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Newcastle – Arsenal

After the great start in Premier, the Toon started to slowing down. In the last 3 home games, they noticed just one point against the sides from the bottom side of the table (Blackpool, Stoke and Wigan) and in all of those 3 conceded twice. In the previous round, they defeated Chelsea at Stamford (reserve squad though) in the game where Chris Hughton made 10 changes in the team. Something like that, he already announced. Newcastle tonight will be mix of fringe players and youngsters. They also have a big derby clash on the corner, home against Sunderland and that’s another reason for first teamers not to be risked. The Toon have only one win against Arsenal in last 19 competitive games and haven’t won in last 7 Cup games (since 1952)!

The Gunners are travelling to the north in a great mood. They demolished City at weekend and boosted their self confidence. Also, some important players (Fabregas, Walcott,Bendtner, Denilson) have been recovered from the injuries. In the previous round in city derby, they eliminated Spurs away, in the game where Wenger rotated players (as usual), but because the number of players in rotation (and their quality) that squad is always more than respectable. Arsenal have good tradition in this competition, but probably more important reason is Wenger’s desire to win a silverware (or better to say, pressure on him to win it). And in situation where Spurs, Chelsea and Man City already finished their appearance in Cup, Arsenal are favorites to win it (beside Man Utd, of course).

This surely won’t be a walk at the St James Park for the Wenger’s kids. Newcastle beat Chelsea away with the same team that probably will be tonight. They gained a huge amount of self confidence and will put their best in this game. But, on the other side will be much more serious eleven than at Stamford. Arsenal are in big uptrend, want a trophy and this should be just one station on the road to Wembley. Beside away win, I expect some counter attack that should finish the job before the end of 90 minutes.

Bet: Arsenal -0.75
Odd: 2.13 Canbet
Stake: 8/10

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Shrewsbury Town - Torquay United

Shrewsbury started to look like a serious promotion contender. Despite just one point noticed in last two games (Wycombe 2-2 and Port Vale 0-1, both away), their performances are over the results. And a defeat against flying Port Vale is not something that can seriously damage confidence at Greenhous Meadow. At home, they look pretty impressive with 3 wins and a draw of 4 games, adding on that a win against Charlton in Carling Cup. Manager Graham Turner will miss striker Kris Bright, while midfielder Sean McAllister will face a late fitness test. Another striker Tom Bradshaw and ex-Leeds youngster Cansdell-Sherriff should be fit for the game.

Torquay made an impressive start of the season with all wins in opening four rounds. They’re the only team that defeated Port Vale so far and their good game and a Cup draw against Reading should be mentioned. However, after those wins Torquay started to lose the fuel as they noticed five games without a win (two draws, three defeats), scored just twice in those five and made two consecutive home defeats in previous two rounds. Manager Paul Buckle asked his boss for more money to “build on positive start”, but got a slap over the mouth with the official club’s statement that club has no more money. Bad timing at least.  Defender Mark Ellis should be fit, while midfielder Damon Lathrope will be sidelined after the knock in a midweek game.

Two opposite trends here. Shrewsbury are in a very good shape and have League One ambitions. Their good performances should convert into winnings. On the other hand, Torquay are in a serious downtrend and it looks their season is already over. I expect a tight affair, but home win at the end. 1-0 correct score.

Bet: Shrewsbury -0.25
Odd: 1.94 Victor Chandler
Stake: 9/10

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Brentford – Hull City

Brentford started campaign in League One with one draw and two defeats in opening three rounds (good result vs. Swindon last weekend, 1-1 away). In the first round, they defeated League Two side, Cheltenham, 2-1 at home. The Bees don’t have so bright history in Carling Cup as they have not reached round three for 19 years. I think more important for them would be to keep the players fit than to try to boost self confidence tonight. However, striker Carl Cort and winger Sam Wood are injury doubts. Signing from Leicester, midfielder Nicky Adams, could have his debut.

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Hull relegated from Premier, but managed to keep majority of the team from previous season. However, thankfully to the decent amount of arrogance already faced a tough life in the second tier (Millwall 0-4). New signing is Slovenian international, Robert Koren, who already made his debut in last round. I expect him to play again, to get used with the new team mates. Also considering news from Hull camp, they should have a strong line-up. Striker, Craig Fagan, will have to wait for his debut as he has a groin problem. If they qualify, it will be for the 4th time in five seasons.

 

I’m well surprised with these odds on Hull. Big difference in quality should be enough for an away win.

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Bet: Hull -0.25ah

Odd: 2.04 188bet

Stake: 7/10

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Probably one more before kick-off.

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Cardiff - Burton

Cardiff started new campaign with a home draw against Sheff.Utd. (1-1). They can be a little bit disappointed as there was a one way traffic when Utd. got a red card. Defence line isn’t still an iron one, but attacking force is great. For tonight’s game Dave Jones can’t rotate players too much from a simply reason, due to recent transfer embargo he doesn’t have enough players for it! Against Blades, only 4 players were substitutes. Cardiff passed the first round in all but one of the last 8 years and have reached the third round in each of the last 3 seasons. Goalie Tom Heaton will replace injured David Marshall, defender Kevin McNaughton is in doubt and new on-loan signing Seyi Olofinjana won’t be involved.

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Burton is an average League Two side, last season they finished 13^th. Interesting fact is they conceded 71 goals in 46 games which is 3^rd highest number in the league (scored the same number though). Weak defence and attacking approach surely isn’t a way how any team should face Cardiff away. Cup history isn’t bright, as well. Just one appearing, last year and disaster at Reading 1-5. Burton also have one game in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and lost against Chesterfield with the same result. Defender Darren Moore is injured and probably won’t be risked, the same situation is with the right-back Andrew Corbett. Midfielder Jacques Maghoma is away on international duty with DR Congo.

 

I expect a strong eleven from Dave Jones and have an impression players feel a little bit frustrated after missed to score few more times against Blades at Sunday. This is a perfect opponent to heal their complexes. Chopra (I expect him to start) would like to go. Good, this is a great chance for him to show some skills to the visiting scouts. Against Burton’s defence, he should run the riot.

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Bet: Cardiff -1.25

Odd: 1.95 bet365

Stake: 7/10

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Gamble: Chopra to score hat-trick

Odd: 19.00 bet365

Stake: 0.5/10

Tuesday's results and two announcements

Southampton - Bournemouth  2-0 WON

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MK Dons - Dag & Red  2-1 1/2 WON

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Statistic:

Profit: +12.15

Yield: +39.19%

See all the details about the bets

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I: I was trying to find a service that could guarantee for my bets and statistic. Without too much success as all of them require some decent additional effort and I'm not in the mood for that. So, here's a deal. I won't be editing posts with the bets (results will be published in a new one). Every bet has its post and posting time is before a game. If you aren't sure about my honesty, Google don't lie. : ) 

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II: Live bets are important part. Mainly, I use it to edge my bets. I'll be posting it in the chat box, including odds and stake. If you follow some my bet, be here during the game and see what and when to bet. Remaining of these bets depends from your feedback. No feedback for a while would mean there's no interest and I'll stop publish that.

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Make your e-mail subscription (below the chat box) and get my picks directly in your mail box.

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I really appreciate any feedback that I get. You have my e-mail, chat and comments. Suggestions, ideas, what you like, what you don't, opinion about some bet... Help me to make this blog even better.

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Lots of friendlies tonight. My focus will be another two games of Carling Cup. Will make a closer view and post a bet(s) if there's any.

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August is always a tough month, this is a great start of the season. Hope you followers enjoy.

Thanks for the visiting and good luck,

Dule

MK Dons – Dag & Red

Dons made a good start of the season with a win on the road, against decent Walsall side (2-1). New boss, Karl Robinson, will have his debut in front the home fans. He’ll also have a task to make first home win after 5 months. He stated that financial benefits will be a strong reason to try to progress as far as possible. He’ll be without suspended defender Mat Doumbe, but important midfielder Peter Leven has served his ban and returns to the squad. Gary MacKenzie could have his debut. Dons won all three games against tonight’s opponent.

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Dagenham are newly promoted side and already showed that avoiding relegation will be a hard task. They lost at the opening day against Wednesday 0-2, but disturbing is they didn’t look even competitive and could have conceded few more without any threat in front Wed.’s goal. They’ll probably be less focused here as their main target is league games and to keep all players fit. Boss John Still will probably rest his top striker Paul Benson, who has been carrying an ankle injury. They noticed defeats in all three attempts to pass the first round.

 

Dons looked impressive in the first round. They play at home ground, new boss has debut in front the fans, he’ll put out a strong team and I think they won’t be lacking in motivation. Dons should win this comfortably.

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Bet: MK Dons -0.75ah

Odd: 1.98 bet365

Stake: 7/10

Southampton - Bournemouth

Differently from previous season when they were playing without too much pressure (thankfully to 10 points penalty) and making some very good results, in this one Saints are one of the two main contenders for a direct promotion. They’ve noticed a bad start (0-1 at home, Plymouth), missing a lot of chances to score. Top scorer, Rickie Lambert, will miss another game, but attacking midfielder, Adam Lallana (20 goals in all competitions, last season), will start. Also, tonight’s opponent is local rival, from the same league and there shouldn’t be any under estimation. As I posted, Saints rarely lose in this round.

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Bournemouth progressed to the third tier and they’ll surely have a tough season. They’ve made some big signings (big for League One) that should allow them to be competitive. However they lost at South London vs. Charlton (which was expected), but the failure in the first home game (another promotion contender - Peterborough) could bring a pressure and problems. The biggest problem in League Two campaign was a limited number of players and squad depth. Simply, I think they have more important things to think about. Also, Bournemouth have lost in the first round four seasons in a row. Boss Eddie Howe has almost all squad available. Midfielder Hollands and striker Symes are not fully fit and they’ll take some part in the game, more likely than to start.

 

Saints need to bounce back to return the self confidence (before Plymouth, lost at home vs. Reading 2-4 in pre-season). I think St Mary's will be a hard place to go this season, expect a strong display from home side and few goals.

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Bet: Southampton -1 ah

Odd: 2.05 Bet365

Stake: 8/10

Carling Cup 10-11.08.

Here’s some interesting infos about games tonight. It could help if you already have some opinion. Otherwise, could be confusing. Enjoy.

My pick(s) will follow.

 

Plymouth have gone out in the first round in 15 of the last 17 years, including the last two.

Aldershot have lost their last four first-round ties in this competition.

Barnsley have not won a competitive home game since 16 March (v Nottingham Forest).

Rochdale have only qualified for the second round once in their last eight attempts. They have lost last five away matches, scoring just one goal.

Bradford have lost at this stage in each of the last four years. They are chasing a fourth successive home win.

Forest are unbeaten in seven matches against the Bradford (W5, D2).

Since returning to the Football League, Carlisle have only been knocked out of the League Cup in the first round once (against Burnley in 2005).

Huddersfield have lost their last three League Cup ties away from home.

Chesterfield have only won one of their last seven first-round ties in this tournament.

Boro have won only one of their last nine away games.

Derby have lost their opening League Cup game in five of the last seven seasons.

Since returning to the Football League in 2003, Doncaster have only failed to progress beyond the first round once (losing to Notts County in 2008).

Accrington have never won a League Cup tie away from home. This is Accrington's fifth season in the League Cup. They are aiming to reach the second round for the third time. Nottingham Forest (2006) and Walsall (2009) are the only clubs Stanley have knocked out of the competition in their history.

It is five months since the MK Dons last recorded a home victory: 3-1 against Swindon in League One on 9 March.

Dagenham & Redbridge are seeking a first-ever League Cup victory.(3 defeats,so far)

Rotherham have fallen at the first-round hurdle only once in nine years. They knocked out Sheffield Wednesday, Wolves and Southampton in reaching the fourth round in the season before last, and Derby in the first round last season.

Charlton have not won or scored in this competition for three years.

Southampton have only ever been eliminated in the first round of the competition twice (1961 and 2007).

Bournemouth have lost in the first round four seasons in a row.

Stockport have been knocked out in the first round of the League Cup in five of the last six years.

Wycombe have not managed to win a single match in the League Cup since their club record run in 2006/07 when they made the last four. The Chairboys have lost three of their last four League Cup matches by 4-0 margins, including the last two.

Blackburn 0-1 Aston Villa

Aston Villa took a giant stride towards Wembley as James Milner's first-half winner gave them victory in the Carling Cup semi-final first leg at Blackburn Rovers.
Milner rounded off a devastating break after 23 minutes when he turned in Stewart Downing's cross as Villa swept the length of the field. 
It gave Martin O'Neill side a deserved advantage and provided a rich reward for Villa's attacking strategy as they dominated a jaded Blackburn side playing their second game this week. 
Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce felt the full force of Ewood Park's fury as his side laboured to make any impression on Villa in the early exchanges, with the half-time whistle being greeted by a chorus of jeering. 
But Blackburn improved hugely after the break only to find their luck was out as striker Nikola Kalinic twice hit the woodwork, firstly with a close-range header, then with a shot from 12 yards. 
Villa always carried the greater threat and will now be firm favourites to progress to a Carling Cup final date against either Manchester City or Manchester United, after next week's second leg at Villa Park. 
Blackburn's winless sequence now stretches to 12 games, although they did knock Chelsea out of this competition on penalties. 
And it is hard to see how they will turn this semi-final around on the evidence of current form. 
That would leave Allardyce and Blackburn with a fight for Premier League survival as their only goal for the rest of the season, a task to be played out in front of what appears to be an increasingly disenchanted Ewood Park public.
Allardyce employed Kalinic as a lone striker from the start - but he was knocking at a firmly closed door for long periods as he attempted to get the better of Villa's central defensive duo, Richard Dunne and James Collins.

www.bbc.co.uk

Blackburn Rovers - Aston Villa

Rovers are in a winless run of eleven competitive games. Unofficially, Sam Allardyce got two more games to improve the things. First of them comes tonight against Villa and progress to Wembley could erase all the errors. First problem is Big Sam almost lost all support from the fans and players as well. His 4-5-1 formation, even at home, hasn’t brought too much good. Fans think team shouldn’t look such defensive at home, while even players don’t seem too much interested to change something. In my opinion there’s much bigger chance to Allardyce face the exit door after few more failures than to improve anything. Next obstacle for improvement is injury list that consist some very important players. Midfielder Grella and forward Roberts are ruled out, while striker Benni McCarthy and defender Givet remain doubtful. Also, key striker El-Hadji Diouf is absent through the suspension. This will be the second game this week, while third at Sunday when they’ll host Fulham is probably most imported. On all of this should be added bad mutual score against Villa, Rovers won just once in last eight games (draw also once and lost other six).

 

Aston Villa is in much better position than tonight’s opponent. They bounced back after two consecutive defeats in Premier (Arsenal away 0-3 and Liverpool at home 0-1) with a win against Blackburn in FA Cup (3-1 at Villa Park). That win should also bring some psychological advantage for tonight’s clash. Despite it is a Carling Cup, progress will bring a ticket to Wembley and unique chance for winning some trophy. In Premier League Villa look secure. With M.City, Tottenham and maybe even Liverpool, Champions League will remain just as dream. But, place for Uefa League is reachable, looks not so hard to achieve and they have a space to focus on this competition. This should mean the best team at Ewood tonight as O’Neill has confirmed. James Milner and Luke Young are both expected to recover from injury and both are set to be named in the squad. Only concern is defender Curtis Davies who remains on the sidelines due a lack of match fitness after recovering from a dislocated shoulder. Goalie Brad Guzan likely to continue his run of cup appearances in place of regular number one Brad Friedel.

 

Tonight, much more will depend from Villa than from Blackburn. Final at Wembley will surely be the guarantor for Rovers’ full motivation and effort. Problem for them is this also applies to the lads on the other side of the pitch. In my opinion visitors are favorites here, but the fact re-match will be played at their own ground makes from a scoring draw decent result. Considering all that I wrote, see dnb as a very good option for this game. Clear away win, however, remains as a gamble (2.47 at Pinnacle).

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Carling Cup

Blackburn 3-3 Chelsea

Blackburn dumped Chelsea out of the Carling Cup in a penalty shoot-out to set up a semi-final with Aston Villa.
Nikola Kalinic put Rovers ahead from six yards before a header from substitute Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou's finish sent Chelsea in front. 
Hilario failed to deal with a deflected Brett Emerton cross and Benni McCarthy scored a penalty, but Paulo Ferreira levelled at 3-3 deep into extra-time. 
Gael Kakuta missed the crucial spot kick as Rovers won the shoot-out 4-3. 
The 18-year-old Kakuta, who Chelsea controversially signed from Lens, struck the ball straight at Paul Robinson, who had earlier sensationally tipped Michael Ballack's spot kick on to the post. 
Premier League leaders Chelsea went into the tie unbeaten in nine games while Carlo Ancelotti's team had not conceded in their previous four matches. 
But the Italian will not be winning the Carling Cup in his first season in English football after his team produced a largely below-par performance at Ewood Park.
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Man City 3-0 Arsenal

Manchester City deservedly sealed a place in the Carling Cup semi-final against arch-rivals Manchester United after beating a youthful Arsenal side at vibrant Eastlands.
Carlos Tevez's spectacular strike five minutes after half-time put City on the path into the last four and a stunning angled drive from Shaun Wright-Phillips sealed the victory for Mark Hughes' side. 
Substitute Vladimir Weiss wrapped up City's triumph with an emphatic finish a minute from time and rounded off a miserable night for Arsenal and manager Arsene Wenger. 
City had the better of an encounter that failed to touch the heights - but their jubilant fans were in no mood to complain as they celebrated a win that moves them a step closer to a first Wembley cup final in 28 years.
For Arsenal boss Wenger, it was more disappointment as his traditionally revamped Carling Cup side crashed to defeat just days after his more familiar line-up was dismantled by Chelsea at the Emirates. 
And his disappointment was demonstrated when he pointedly refused to shake hands with opposite number Hughes at the final whistle - an action that left the City boss accusing his Arsenal counterpart of being ungracious in defeat. 
Wenger, without a trophy since the FA Cup win against Manchester United in Cardiff in 2005, saw his much-heralded youngsters eventually overpowered by City as the opportunity to advance to a major final was sacrificed in favour of giving experience to his emerging talent.
www.bbc.co.uk

Manchester City – Arsenal

Mark Hughes is on the exit door and he’ll send the best eleven on the pitch. Guess he thinks eliminating Arsenal should be a big plus in the owner’s notebook. The problem with City is they can attract only players with specific mental attitude. Most of them look bored because they got a promises about wining the title and Champions League and now hardly find a motivation. Especially in Cup competition against Arsenal’s reserve squad.

On the other hand, Wenger has a choice. To field the strongest team with intention to bounce back after Chelsea and risk real crisis and open debate about squad’s capability if get defeated. Or, to stick with his principles, give a chance to the “young guns” once again and already has a ready excuse in case of defeat. He’ll surely choose the second option. Youngsters may lack in quality comparing with tonight’s opponent, but have big potential and good team chemistry.

Odds about 4.00 for Arsenal?! They must be joking. This is stronger than me. Ladbrokes offer 4.20, Pinnacle 4.10. Another gamble, away win.

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Blackburn Rovers - Chelsea

Boss Allardyce has left the hospital following heart surgery. That is a boost for the Rovers camp, but he won’t attend the game. Their home record looks good with four wins and just a single defeat in past seven games. But without Big Sam (last two games) their play looks confused, too many long balls without real goal chances and zero goals scored in those two. Caretaker Neil McDonald has been criticized for forcing 4-5-1 formation. That formation produced some results in the past, but the problem is key midfielder (plays behind the striker, Franco di Santo usually), David Dunn is unfit and his appearance is under a question mark, especially because Liverpool come in visit at Saturday. And Rovers do not have permission to field mentioned on-loan Chelsea’s di Santo. Also, Rovers have lost last four games against Chelsea without a goal scored (conceded 10). In previous rounds, they eliminated clubs from lower divisions (Gillingham, Nottingham Forest and Peterborough). 

Visitors are in the great shape. First places in Premier and CL group and maybe more important Ancelotti successfully rotates the players, sharing the effort on 16-17 players equal. So far, playing a large number of games doesn’t look as a problem. The true is, he’ll mix the cards again. But, it just means players that didn’t play at Emirates will take a place in starting eleven, like Ballack, Malouda, Deco, Kalou, Zhirkov… “Trouble maker”, Gael Kakuta, will probably make his first starting appearance this season. For me, any starting eleven looks simply too strong. Only concern is Ashley Cole who was limping off with a hamstring injury during Sunday's win at Arsenal.

Blackburn’s style of play with long-balls usually doesn’t produce too many goal opportunities and I can not see how it can works against the best defense in England (in the world, in my opinion). On the other hand, Ancelotti when take surely won’t keep the minimal lead and risk extra-time and additional effort. I expect clear away win and handicap.

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One more to follow...

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Carling Cup

Man Utd 2-0 Tottenham

Darron Gibson stated an eloquent case for Manchester United's young brigade by scoring twice to send the holders into the Carling Cup semi-final at the expense of Spurs at Old Trafford.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had reacted angrily to criticism levelled at his emerging stars after the defeat against Besiktas that ended their 23-game unbeaten home record in the Champions League. 
Ferguson launched a passionate defence of his home-grown products and gave them another chance to impress against Spurs - and 22-year-old Gibson was the star of the show as United saw off Harry Redknapp's side in a repeat of last season's Wembley final. 
Gibson opened the scoring with an early long-range finish, then produced an even more spectacular effort just before half-time to put United into the last four on a rain-sodden Old Trafford night. 
Spurs' challenge fizzled out after a bright start, with United defender Nemanja Vidic providing experience and a formidable barrier on the rare occasions when the Londoners did threaten.
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Portsmouth 2-4 Aston Villa

Stewart Downing scored on his first start for Aston Villa as they secured a deserved victory over Portsmouth in the Carling Cup quarter-final.
Stiliyan Petrov sliced a corner into his own net to give Portsmouth the lead but a minute later Emile Heskey ran through on goal to chip Villa level. 
James Milner's drive put the visitors ahead and Downing's second-half header seemed to have settled the tie. 
A Kanu strike gave Pompey hope but Ashley Young's goal extinguished it. 
Portsmouth boss Avram Grant's last game as a manager in this competition was a defeat to Tottenham in the 2008 final during his time at Chelsea. 
However, in stark contrast to his time at Stamford Bridge, Grant is now tasked with steering a struggling side away from the Premier League relegation zone. 
To this end, Grant rested his first-choice strikers Frederic Piquionne and Aruna Dindane with Danny Webber and John Utaka coming in.
www.bbc.co.uk

Portsmouth - Manchester United

Pompey made the disaster start of the season. Returned back with away win against Wolverhampton 1-0 and a draw also on the road vs. fellow strugglers Hull. After that, two 4-0 wins at home (Stoke and Wigan in Cup) and again two defeats on the road. In last round vs. Stoke away, Kevin-Prince Boateng missed the penalty at the start of the game and tight match finished with another defeat (0-1). After the game, Paul Hart got fired. Few reasons why I think it was a mistake. First, squad simply hasn’t enough quality and even top manager couldn’t do better. Hart also made some kind of family atmosphere and players are in shock because his departure. His replacement is Avram Grant. When he was appointed in Chelsea, players started the riot because his old fashioned training and team needed some time to adjust to his way of work (some players never accepted him as a man in charge). Can’t see why in Portsmouth this should be better. And last, but not the least, first game is against furious United. Also, should be mentioned, Grant will be officially appointed after the game, caretaker will lead the team. First goalie, David James, suffered an injury during the warming-up for game against Stoke and will miss again. His place will take a substitute, Jamie Ashdown. Papa Bouba Diop, John Utaka and Steve Finnan are all battling to be fit.

After CSKA finished his game against Wolfsburg and won 2-1, Sir Alex changed the team and sent a bunch of youngsters to bring him a point and first place in the group, counting on opponent’s lack of motivation. But, the painful truth is European competition isn’t Carling Cup, Turkish side defeated United and made of them a main story in Britain. Well, history learns us Man.Utd. are the most dangerous when their dignity is hurt. I expect their response and Ferguson surely will send the hard artillery on the pitch. No European game next week and no reason for resting players and calculation. This game should be a message to Chelsea (who btw. already have a surplus of five points). Only Rio Ferdinand and John O'Shea, beside Hargreaves, are confirmed missings. Evans, Fabio and Berbatov (who should appeared against Besiktas) will have a late fitness test.

I would write-off the new manager effect here, ‘cause the players are not the least pleased with that. Portsmouth advantages will be smaller pitch (as always) where they create chances easier than on the road and maybe United’s defense line. I think it will be far from enough to resist from visitors’ revenge. I’m little cautious about the stake just because Wes Brown and his habit to make stupidities. However, Pompey look just like a victim of bad circumstances. United's win with a handicap.

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Very probably one more pick before the kick-off in England.

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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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Man Utd 1-0 Wolverhampton

Danny Welbeck marked his first start of the season with the winning goal as 10-man Manchester United edged past Wolves into the Carling Cup fourth round.
The United substitute was set free by a superb Michael Owen pass and he slotted in to send the holders through. 
That came after Fabio da Silva had seen red for a deliberate foul on Michael Kightly, who was clean through on goal. 
But Wolves played their part in a fine game, David Jones and Kevin Doyle both forcing saves from Tomasz Kuszczak. 
The Premier League new-boys lived up to their pre-match word that they would go for the victory at Old Trafford, despite not having won a top-flight match there in almost 30 years. 606:
But the game's one moment of true class told as United overcame the first hurdle of their defence of the trophy they won on penalties against Spurs last February. 
Not that Sir Alex Ferguson ranks that as his greatest priority this season if his selection is anything to by, with the Scot selecting an entirely different XI to the one that started Sunday's derby win over Manchester City.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson:
"You can't argue with the red card, but Fabio is only 18 and this experience will help him grow. 
"Even before we went down to 10 men Wolves were a threat on the counter-attack, but for the last hour we kept our discipline and that was very pleasing. That never-say-die attitude runs through this club and the goal was of magnificent quality. 
"Who do I want next? (Son Darren's side) Peterborough at home. All the family should be happy with that." 
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy: 
"My assessment was that we weren't good enough to win it - we've been sat down, patted on the head and sent on our way. 
"Nice old Wolves, come up put on a show but don't upset the apple cart. It annoys me."
www.bbc.co.uk

Manchester Utd. - Wolverhampton

I won’t waste the words too much on United and their current form. Sir Alex again pulled something from the hat and this squad is again fully competitive. Five wins and one defeat (vs. Burnley on the road, 0-1) in Premier League, so far. For tonight’s encounter some youngsters and fringe players will get a chance. Goalie will be Tomasz Kuszczak instead walking disaster, Ben Foster. Central defenders will be Wes Brown and Jonny Evans. Just a fact Brown will be in front suggest a decent possibility of conceding goals. Gibson, Macheda, Welbeck, Brown, Tosic, some of them will also appear. Michael Owen will be in attack as the reward for Saturday’s winner. Far from disputing their talent, just don’t think they can be fully competitive and play on result. Despite some good results in past, Sir Alex doesn’t rank Cup competition (especially League Cup) too high and I think any upset tonight wouldn’t even take a smile, after Saturday’s win, from his face. They have a clash against Stoke at Saturday and most of his key players will be resting (at least first 60 minutes).

Woverhampton started this season as clear underdogs. Fast return in second tier is something that has been already predicted to them. But, so far, they’re announcing a battle at least. Two wins in opening six rounds, Wigan on the road (1-0) and in last round Fulham at home (2-1). Worth of mentioning is also their more than decent away display in defeat against Man.City (0-1). Their biggest problem currently is big number of new players, some signings are even new in England and simply need some time to adapt. Also, Wolves have had a lots of injury concerns. For tonight’s game, two key players are making comebacks from injury, excellent winger Michael Kightly and striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (both came as the substitutes at Saturday’s win). Also new signing, striker Stefan Maierhofer, will have his debut. Boss Mick McCarthy will try to use this game for morale boosting, but also as a test game for Premier League. This could be the strongest Wolves’ team this season. 

United are always favorites wherever they play, but I can not see any obvious domination. Although home win is probable, I can not see any convincing win and wouldn’t even write off some surprising result at Trafford. Especially because I expect some outcome from Wolves’ attacking force. Asian handicap +1.75 on visitors seems as a very good value and nice choice, (188 offer 1.95), while Pinnacle for +1.5 offer also more than decent 2.20. 

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