Return of the Frank

Another weekend of Barclays Premier League action brought some shocks, a crazy comeback and a haunting return of a legend against his old side.  Frank Lampard was facing the side where he left his name engraved as their record goal scorer, yes Manchester City vs Chelsea. 

Let's start at The Etihad.  Manchester City had not won their last three in all competitions and were desperate to end Chelsea's blistering start to the league season, with four wins from four.  Chelsea had Diego Costa back in the starting eleven, their new signing already starting with a bang, scoring 7 in his first four games for the club.  It was always going to be a cagey, tactical game between the two title favourites, with both desperate not to lose.  It was a quiet first half as Vincent Kompany and Eliquem Mangala, making his City debut, had hold of Costa and kept him in sight.  City were doing more of the pressing with James Milner a constant threat down the right.  The second half was a bit more livelier, City started to create more chances with Thibaurt Courtois denying David Silva after a neat turn and shot in the penalty box.  But the game changed with around 20 minutes to go, City's Pablo Zabaleta had been booked in the first half for a trip on Eden Hazard and after going in hard on Costa once, the second time he wouldn't be as successful.  A kick from Zabaleta angered Costa which may have helped the referee in his decision, a second yellow and he was off.  I think the first yellow was unlucky but the second foul is definitely a second booking, a rash challenge from a man of such experience.  Chelsea made it pay dividends as a slick counter attack led to a perfect pick out from Hazard for Andre Schurrle to slide home what looked to be the winner for Mourinho's men.  However, on came Frank.  Lampard was applauded by both sets of fans as he entered the frame, I had never seen anything like this in a match of this magnitude.  City didn't lie down and kept attacking to save the game.  Sure enough, they found a way through.  Silva played a lovely one-two with Milner who teed up, yes you guessed it, Frank Lampard who expertly cushioned the volley past Courtois.  The poor guy looked the most depressed footballer to ever score, he was almost in tears.  The Chelsea fans were in a state of shock.  City fans were jubilant.  For a moment, it looked like Lampard was about to win it, but John Terry got in the way.  1-1 it finished, Lampard going over to the Chelsea fans at full time in apologetic mood, with both sets of fans again giving him a rousing send off.  A very emotional day for Lampard. 

There was much more shocks across the league.  At the King Power Stadium, Manchester United were looking for their first away win of the season after hammering QPR at Old Trafford.  Leicester had held Arsenal and Everton at home so they shouldn't be underestimated.  Yet, United raced into a 3-1 lead come the hour mark with goals from Robin Van Persie, Ander Herrera and a sublime chip from Angel Di Maria.  Although, United have clear defensive weaknesses and are more than likely to concede goals or make mistakes, they did both.  A debatable penalty awarding swung the game back to Leicester as a shove-off between Jamie Vardy an Rafael ended with the latter fouling Vardy to concede a spot kick, duly converted by David Nugent.  Leicester had their tails up and equalised after another mess by United's defence.  Dean Hammond's shot was blocked and fumbled to Esteban Cambiasso.  The one time Champions League winner with Inter Milan now in the East Midlands rammed his first goal in English football to cap off an assured debut.  Then, not for the last time this season, United were found wanting at the back as Marcos Rojo bombed forward expecting Mata to return the ball only to see Jamie Vardy running clean through the space Rojo was in.  The former non-league bad boy stroked it past David De Gea and ran off to celebrate putting Leicester 4-3 ahead!!!  This incredible comeback was finished off with the dismissal of Tyler Blackett, I will never understand how he is starting for United.  Leonardo Ulloa capped it off his 5th league goal already for Leicester, 5-3 to the Tigers, Van Gaal and United embarrassed again as Falcao and Di Maria watched on. 

Finally, Arsenal bounced back with a three minute blitz of Aston Villa.  Mesut Ozil dazzling in the number 10 role, where he should play every week.  Scoring and setting up Danny Welbeck for his first goal for Arsenal, then capped off with a Aly Cissokho own goal.  Arsenal didn't even use Alexis Sanchez who should be fresh for the North London Derby next week!  Southampton continued their remarkable run with a 1-0 win at Swansea.  I underestimated Southampton and predicted a struggling season for them, yet with Ronald Koeman settled and his players delivering week after week, it could be another good year for the Saints, amazing after their mass exodus this summer.  The team responsible for a lion share in that are Liverpool, who ironically are below Southampton.  They stumbled to back-to-back losses after a 3-1 humbling at West Ham.  Liverpool have major problems at the back and with utilising Steven Gerrard.  West Ham cut out Gerrard and stopped Liverpool from getting going.  Spurs were left shocked by basement dwellers West Brom.  A James Morrison header won it as Spurs looked average, plain and devoid of confidence heading into a North London Derby. 

The Rest
Burnley 0-0 Sunderland
Everton 2-3 Crystal Palace
Newcastle United 2-2 Hull City
QPR 2-2 Stoke City

Goal of the Week

A new feature I am adding will show the best goal from this week's football.  This week it's Nikica Jelavic's  extraordinary overhead kick at St James' Park.

 

Signing off- sjt

Angel resurrects United hopes

Finally, after what seemed an eternity, the Premier League returned after the International break and didn't let up with some brilliant games and goals.  The UEFA Champions League also made its return this week with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City flying the flag in Europe. 

Premier League

The first game of the weekend was arguably the biggest, Arsenal vs Manchester City at The Emirates.  Arsenal had drawn their last two and had been unconvincing so far this season, they needed a good performance at least.  City had gone into the break after defeat to Stoke and were ready to put it to bed and prove it was a blip.  Arsenal got at City and were aggressive from the off, led by Mathieu Flamini, Jack Wilshere and the ever working Alexis Sanchez.  Arsenal were caught on the break though mid-way through the half.  Flamini's tackle merely sent Jesus Navas away and he crossed for Sergio Aguero to slot the ball away at the near post under Woijiech Szczesny.  Arsenal push their full backs up high during the game and City were keen to punish this as Navas broke away again, but this time David Silva couldn't beat Szczesny.  Arsenal needed a fresh response in the second half as they couldn't really afford a defeat, cue Jack Wilshere.  Wilshere had been at it from the off and was pressing City and forcing his team forward, it was Alexis who broke through this time.  The ball came to Aaron Ramsey who found Wilshere, he glided past Gael Clichy and with still a lot to do, delicately lofted the ball over Joe Hart and in.  A priceless goal for him and Arsenal.  But that delight would turn into ecstasy.  Wilshere headed the ball back towards City's goal after Vincent Kompany cleared away a cross.  The ball came to Alexis who superbly volleyed past Joe Hart and put Arsenal in front.  It was a frantic game and one which you couldn't call, City latched onto Arsenal's nerves and equalised with a Martin Demichellis header.  City went on to rattle the post twice and have the ball in the net only for Samir Nasri to flagged offside, a possible nightmare moment for Arsenal fans there.  So a scrappy, end-to-end game ended all square, both sides will be disappointed not to win but equally feel fortunate not to lose. 

Elsewhere, Chelsea continued their rampant start with a brilliant comeback win over Swansea winning 4-2.  New man Diego Costa was in the goals again, bagging his first Chelsea hat-trick whilst Cesc Fabregas collected another two assists.  Swansea had played well but couldn't take chances when they were on top and were caught by a set piece.  Costa has clearly settled quickly and showing signs of a striker who can fire Jose Mourinho to his first title in his second spell in charge.  However, Liverpool slipped up at home to solid starters Aston Villa.  A Gabby Agbonlahor goal took all three points back to the Midlands for Villa who were unbeaten and had kept three clean sheets so far this season.  Liverpool had dropped Raheem Sterling and seemed to lack cutting edge and that final pass against a well organised Villa.  Newcastle were again beaten heavily at Southampton.  A 4-0 whitewash for Alan Pardew's men who were yet to win and had conceded 9 goals in their first four games.  Newcastle were a shambles!  Awful work ethic, defending and finishing.  New signings have made little impact and the fans seem to want the manager out, as well as the owner.  Newcastle need to beat Hull next weekend, lose and Pardew will face a certain possibility of the axe.  Finally, Manchester United got off the mark on Sunday with the help of an Angel sent from a distant land.  Angel Di Maria tore QPR to shreds as he scored and set up one in a 4-0 romp.  Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind and off the bench, Radamel Falcao all made their United bows with Blind particularly impressive.  Louis Van Gaal said their season starts against QPR, so can it continue with a win away at Leicester?

The Rest
Crystal Palace 0-0 Burnley
Hull City 2-2 West Ham United
Stoke City 0-1 Leicester City
Sunderland 2-2 Spurs
West Brom 0-2 Everton



Champions League

The English sides returned to action this week, with mixed results.  Liverpool overcame a frustrating tussle with Ludogorets thanks to a late Stevie Gerrard penalty, a couple of minutes after the Hungarians had equalised in stoppage time.  Mario Balotelli scored his goal for the club and will hopefully kick on from there as they are without Daniel Sturridge.  Arsenal were far from convincing.  An awful team display in Dortmund meant they were 2-0 losers in Signal Iduna Park.  A performance where defending was at a disarray and chances were few, even when they did get glimpses, Danny Welbeck missed convincingly.  Manchester City were harshly denied a point from the Allianz as a late Jerome Boateng drive flew past Joe Hart, albeit off the back of Mario Gotze.  Chelsea were surprisingly held by Schalke 04 after Klass Jaan Huntelaar equalised in the second half after a brilliant break from Julian Draxler, who was a constant threat.  Cesc Fabregas grabbed his first Chelsea goal but was then at fault for the equaliser, Didier Drogba and Fabregas went on to miss guilt-edged chances to kill the game.  So 4 points from four games is the worst start for English sides in the opening round of the UEFA Champions League since four teams were allowed in.  I am still confident that all four will qualify through their groups, it may be close though!



 

 

Signing off- sjt

Costa chews up Toffees & Deadline Deals

As we enter the first International break of the season, the Premier League is in full flow.  This weekend brought shocks up and down the league as well as a hatful of goals.  Deadline Day was the end of the transfer window as many clubs made last adjustments to their sides, some more so than others!


Premier League

We start at Goodison Park where 100% starters Chelsea travelled to Everton who had drawn their opening two games from winning positions.  Martinez's men have a good recent record against Chelsea, beating them last season and generally being a thorn in Chelsea's side in the past few years.  Everton are never easy to beat but conceding a 2-1 lead to Leicester and 2-0 lead to Arsenal in the last 10 minutes of those games is showing cracks in that normally solid back-line.  That was breached inside the first minute of the game.  Chelsea new boys Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa linking up, not for the first time this season, with devastating effect.  Two minutes later, they had another when Eden Hazard slipped Branislav Ivanovic through to put them 0-2 up inside three minutes!  Kevin Mirallas though did grab a goal back before the break after flowing Everton move.  Chelsea didn't let up as they moved two in front again.  The unfortunate Seamus Coleman deflecting Eden Hazard's cross past Tim Howard at his near post.  This was followed by a heated altercation between Howard and Costa.  Costa was riled up by Everton's handling of him and tussled with Coleman previous to this.  After the goal he celebrated in front of the Irishman to the anger of Howard, but neither were sent off thankfully.  Within two minutes or so it was 2-3!  Steven Naismith scoring for the third game in a row, an incredible match!  Yet, another sloppy goal let Everton down.  Poor marking gave Nemanja Matic space to drill home a fourth from the edge of their penalty box.  However, Chelsea seemed just as lackadaisical at the back as Everton.  Samuel Eto'o came off the bench and scored with his first touch as an Everton player, against his old club!  This was extraordinary to watch, maybe not so much for Martinez and Jose Mourinho.  But, once again Everton were caught sleeping as Chelsea's incisive and intricate passing cut them open once more.  Ramires walking through to poke a fifth goal in 10 exhilarating minutes at Goodison.  Costa grabbed his second, showing assured composure and confidence, 3-6 Chelsea.  If there are better games this season than this one, then we are in for one hell of a season.  Although if the defending is anything like this again, Alan Hansen will be begging to return to Match of the Day! 

Elsewhere across the country, a hapless Manchester City were caught out by Stoke at the Etihad due to Mame Biram Diouf's solo special.  Stoke being just the third team in the last three Premier League seasons to beat them at their home ground, the others Chelsea last season and Manchester United the year before.  Liverpool reacted to disappointment at City to wipe the floor with Spurs again!  Mario Balotelli had flashes on his debut, but the stand out moment was a brilliant goal from other new man Alberto Moreno.  Wilfried Zaha encapsulated a week of turnarounds at Crystal Palace.  Neil Warnock returning to Selhurst and the Premier League, whilst Zaha returned to his stomping turf and scored a dramatic late equaliser to spoil Newcastle's chance for three points.  A lacklustre Arsenal were held by a determined Leicester who showed they can match the best in the league with Leonardo Ulloa thumping a header in to cancel out a first league goal for Alexis Sanchez.  There were also wins for Aston Villa, Southampton, Swansea and QPR.  Then there was a boring old draw at Turf Moor, Burnley being held by a brave Manchester United who pick up their second point of the season in a pitiful performance, slightly brightened by the appearance of one Angel Di Maria.

So Chelsea, Swansea, Aston Villa and Manchester City, on goal difference, currently fill the Top Four spots with Liverpool, Spurs and Arsenal just behind.  Burnley, Palace and West Brom are the bottom three, whilst Everton, Sunderland, Leicester, Newcastle and Manchester United still look for that elusive first win.  For me, Swansea have been really impressive so far, as well as Chelsea.  But, Swansea were strugglers last season, mostly down to Europa League football, but now have a solid base to their side and are back to their old selves.  Chelsea vs Swansea should be a tasty affair, a Swansea win could open up loads of avenues in the fight at the top of the league!  

Deadline Day

Deadline Day was once again frantic, unpredictable, surprising and expensive!  Manchester United, Arsenal and Hull City were the teams in the centre of big deals, some good and some questionable.  Hull put together a surprising array of deals which put together make to look a very good side.  Loan deals for Hatem Ben Arfa and Gaston Ramirez were clever and profitable for their attacking force.  A record fee for striker Abel Hernandez will be answered after appearances soon.  But the best deal for me, £3.5 million for Momo Diame from West Ham.  Diame is an all-action midfielder who has bags of skill and an eye for goal.  He often impressed me when playing for West Ham and I think he will be a real miss for the Hammers who already are struggling for firepower in attack, then sell Diame??  Along with Ben Arfa, Ramirez, Jelavic and Huddlestone controlling from deep, Hull could be a tough team to beat this season. 

Arsenal needed to make additions due to injuries and vacant holes in their squad, we all knew that!  However, it seems every year it comes down to deadline day and Arsenal are scrapping around to see who becomes available.  Danny Welbeck was an addition this deadline day, following Manchester United's astonishing loan acquisition of Radamel Falcao.  This annoys me.  Don't get me wrong, I am happy with Welbeck and will back him in an Arsenal shirt.  Although, every year Arsenal cannot constantly make these late deals because of other teams doings, like Ozil last year and Welbeck this year.  If Bale didn't go to Madrid, Ozil wouldn't have left, same with Welbeck and Falcao.  As well as the ever publicised empty defensive midfield vacancy at Arsenal once again not answered, added with the lack of centre halves, Arsenal have missed priority positions.  Rumours of moves for Sami Khedira, Lars Bender, William Carvalho, Mataja Nastastic and Sokratis never materialised and now Mathieu Flamini and Mikel Arteta will be put in battles with the likes of Yaya Toure, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Cesc Fabregas.  This is a risk and a missed chance to really step up the squad to challenge for titles.  In big games they may get out muscled like last season, but the additions they have made our positive and good business.  Despite, Wenger again not sufficiently using resources fully and necessarily correctly, Arsenal still have a good enough team to mix with the best and be up there come May. 

Best of the Rest

Jason McArthur- Wigan to Crystal Palace

Sandro- Spurs to QPR

Niko Kranjcar- Dinamo Zagreb to QPR

Eduardo Vargas- Fiorentina to QPR

Toby Alderweireld- Atletico to Southampton

Daley Blind- Ajax to Manchester United

Morgan Amalfitano- Marseille to West Ham

Benjamin Stambouli- Montpellier to Spurs

Kevin Doyle- Wolves to Crystal Palace

Zeki Fryers- Spurs to Crystal Palace



 

Signing off- sjt



Is Van still the Man?

As the Premier League gets up to speed, two gameweeks have been played and we've already seen shocks, late goals and a managerial departure.  As well as that, the Capital One Cup reached the second round where the top teams face potential cup upsets and with the transfer window reaching deadline day, deals are being done by the minute.

Premier League

So, the new season began with a new era starting in Manchester, again.  'King Louis' started with a home tie against Swansea City, routine win surely?  David Moyes opened his reign with a win over Swansea however, so a win shouldn't be a sign of things to come.  But a win nevertheless was vital for United who had Ander Herrera making his League debut.  Yet, the problems at Manchester United were never going to be fixed by a change in manager.  The team is simply not good enough and the right players need to be brought in, something Moyes did not do when signing Zaha, Fellaini and Mata.  Swansea would prevail 2-1 winners with goals either side of half-time from Ki Seung-Yung and Gylfi Sigurdsson.  Wayne Rooney had equalised but United's defence was and isn't strong enough for Van Gaal's system.  Playing Ashley Young as a Left Wing Back and Jesse Lingaard at Right Wing Back emphasise the lack of depth, as well as the appearance of Tyler Blackett, who failed to get into Balckpool's team last season.  This was followed by a 1-1 draw at Sunderland where they were again unconvincing, Van Gaal needs wins and fast, starting at Burnley.

The main title contenders have 100% records so far.  Chelsea and Manchester City have started well and seem destined to maintain title tilts this campaign.  Chelsea, Spanish recruits and all saw past Burnley then Leicester with Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas putting in impressive showings.  City had tougher encounters but made equally light work of Newcastle then Liverpool.  Despite not many signings being added due to UEFA implications, the current crop are still potential world beaters when Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure, David Silva and Sergio Aguero come together.  Arsenal are also unbeaten after two games.  Less convincing performances but signs of improvement with a gritty win over Palace and enthralling comeback at Goodison Park against Everton.  The Arsenal of last season caved in but with goals from Aaron Ramsey then Olivier Giroud, Arsenal claimed an unlikely point.

Crystal Palace have struggled.  Tony Pulis leaving days before their trip to Arsenal didn't help, yet they were still close to earning a point there.  A humbling at home to West Ham has dampened morale and now with Neil Warnock at the helm, can they start their season fresh. QPR have also looked weak.  A clearout still needed and new players still to bring in, Redknapp will hope for some deadline deals.



Capital One Cup

This week saw the return of the Capital One Cup and as usual it brought its share of upsets.  Leyton Orient knocked out Villa at Villa Park, Burton dumped QPR out, but the biggest shock would be at Stadium MK.  Manchester United arrived expecting an easy ride this was far from it.  United were sluggish and lazy, epitomised by Jonny Evans' error for Will Grigg's opener.  His second, a sublime improvised finish.  Arsenal loanee Benik Afobe put pain to United's defence, bulldozing his way to a double, 4-0 to the Dons, United need a miracle to challenge now, or maybe just an Angel?




I will do a Deadline Day blog, reviewing the weekend and Deadline Day as it has happened to that point!

Signing off, sjt

Life at the Bottom

I've looked at the top half and teams I predict to have successful and settled seasons.  Now I will look at the bottom half and teams I predict to struggle and battle for survival in the annual Premier League relegation scrap.  This year I think 6 teams will be in the mix of possible relegation this year, obviously only three will suffer the agonising drop.  Who will it be?

Relegation Victims

This year I think it'll be swift returns to the Championship for Leicester and Burnley, whilst following them will be Southampton.  I think Leicester will struggle the most out of the three sides.  Leicester were excellent in the Championship and swept aside almost everyone to win the title.  However, they do not posses many top players who can assert themselves in the top flight.  They are a very good Championship team, yet I think the Premier League is possibly one step too far.  They have some talented players in Antony Knockaert, Chris Wood and Liam Moore along with Premier League experience from Gary Taylor-Fletcher and Mark Albrighton.  Leonardo Ulloa will add more firepower upfront but is he capable in England's top division.  Burnley are a tougher one.  They have a upcoming, young manager in Sean Dyche and a battling, determined team spirit.  On the other hand, they may not have the quality and know-how to escape the drop as shown in their last campaign.  Albeit they are a better side now, I'm not sure they will have the consistency.  If they retain Danny Ings it can boost their chances of survival but their team, like Leicester, is a good Championship side but will the Premier League be one step too far?  As for Southampton, it's been a sad sight to the vast exile of the side.  Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren, Luke Shaw, Rickie Lambert and Calum Chambers have all departed already along with manager Mauricio Pocchetino.  Morgan Schneiderlin and Jay Rodriguez have also been lined up by Spurs as potential signings.  Ronald Koeman has come in and the signs have been unconvincing.  Graziano Pelle arrived from Holland and Ryan Bertrand on loan from Chelsea.  Yet, with more possible exits and a lot of gaps to fill, Southampton need to get busy or risk falling through the trap door.

That leaves three sides who will cling on to Premier League existence, West Brom, Hull and Aston Villa.  West Brom are under the management of Alan Irvine who's highest role arguably, was assistant to David Moyes at Everton.  Irvine had a spell in charge at Preston which didn't last long so his hiring is a risk.  West Bro narrowly survived last season and still look under threat this coming season.  If Irvine has a bad start, don't be surprised if the fans turn on him, especially if club record signing Ideye Brown doesn't settle and start scoring goals.  Their is stars in this side like Stephane Sessegnon, Morgan Amalfitano and James Morrison which if managed properly can lift the side out of trouble, but Irvine will have a big task in his first top flight job.  Hull are a good side who surprised many last season with their mid-table finish and cup final appearance.  However, they will be in the Europa League this year which as shown with other clubs can hinder their league form, like Newcastle and Swansea.  But, with a front two of Nikica Jelavic and Shane Long they should be fine.  Then there's Aston Villa.  With Roy Keane added to the coaching staff there will be more fight and discipline around Villa Park.  However, the same problem will still come to fruition.  When star man Christian Benteke is missing, Villa are not the same fast, attacking and confident side as seen in the past.  The Belgian is their main source of goals and without him they struggled to find a consistent goal scorer to fill his space.  Andi Weimann and Gabby Agbonlahor chip in with a few a season but not often enough.  Villa though should be fine as in previous years if the Darren Bent of old is given another chance and Ron Vlaar is retained. 

Cup Winners

The FA Cup and Capital One Cup are also up for grabs this season and this time, anyone of the Football League's 92 teams can win it, or Non-League in the FA Cup.  This year I think Arsenal can seriously put up a good defence of their FA Cup but as you've seen, these competitions are impossible to predict most of the time.  Manchester City will defend the Capital One Cup and probably enter as favourites but this year I see two new winners of these trophies. 

FA Cup-  Manchester United
Capital One Cup-  Chelsea

So, I've done my predictions and will wait to see if I'm right come May 2015.

1)  Chelsea                                                      2)  Manchester City                                           3)  Arsenal
4)  Manchester United                                     5)  Liverpool                                                       6)  Everton                                                           7)  Spurs                                                             8)  Newcastle United                                         9)  Swansea City                                           10)  West Ham United   
11)  Stoke City
12)  Sunderland
13)  Crystal Palace
14)  QPR                         
15)  Aston Villa
16)  Hull City
17)  Southampton
18)  Burnley
19)  West Brom
20)  Leicester City
             

Life After Fergie, Take 2

After a summer of thrills in Brazil, the time we as football fans look forward to most is upon us, the build up to the new season.  As this season attempts to follow the fantastic campaign of 2013/2014, there are bound to be just as many shocks, just as many stunning goals and just as many entertaining games of football.  The champions Manchester City will attempt to defend their second Premier League title, however this year may be the toughest yet in the race for the title with seemingly 5 teams in with a shot of the crown.  Manchester United will want to forget last season and start a fresh with Louis Van Gaal as they try to return to the Champions League places. Whereas the newly promoted sides Leicester, Burnley and QPR will look to build on their promotion momentum and stay in the Premier League.  I will try and predict how I think all 20 teams will fair this oncoming season, obviously I probably won't be right but that's part of the fun, you never know with the Barclays Premier League. 

Top 4

This season's race for the Champions League places will be arguably the tightest yet, never mind the race for the title!  I think it'll be a four horse race for the title in the end, which also shows who I think will get those important Champions League positions.  The two favourites for the title being Chelsea and Manchester City, I think these teams will finish 1st and 2nd.  With Arsenal and Manchester United close behind in 3rd and 4th, all four sides I think will last the race and possibly all still be in with a chance of the title come game week 34.  Chelsea have the best team going into the season, with the signings they've made this summer I think this could be Mourinho's 3rd Premier League title.  Thibart Courtois will finally get his chance in goal for Chelsea this season I expect, with Filipe Luis, Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas following from La Liga, Chelsea look a very strong unit.  Despite the departures of Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard, they have the talent to more than replace them and win their first league title since 2010.  The men from Manchester will prove very tough competition.  City, as defending champions, will try and do a better job of defending a title than they did in the 2012/2013 campaign.  As financial fair play rules have hit City, acquisitions have been controlled and limited with free agent Bacary Sagna joining from Arsenal and Fernando arriving from Porto.  Although, it's not like they need many new players with the exceptional squad they posses, especially up front with Sergio Aguero, Stefan Jovetic, Alvaro Negredo and Edin Dzeko.  City emerged late from the pack to take the Premier League title, winning it with a record low of 14 days at the top.  Those two will be the leaders of the pack. 

Arsenal I believe will provide a tougher fight for the title than last season.  I won't be biased, but I do believe they will be a better side next season.  The traumatic experiences last season at Stamford Bridge, The Etihad and Anfield will have had a strong and damaging effect on the side.  Yet, May's FA Cup triumph, a first trophy in 9 years, will have shown the players they can win things.  They had a tough road to Wembley and were even 2-0 down after 10 minutes in the final, yet prevailed.  This needed to be followed up by Arsenal and strengthen a squad highly tested last campaign due to injuries.  New medical staff have been brought in and four new signings in before August began.  The departure of Lukasz Fabianski left way for the arrival of David Ospina from Nice.  Defenders Mathieu Debuchy and Calum Chambers were also welcomed to the Emirates, Debuchy a like for like replacement for Sagna.  But, the big name signing was the first done.  Alexis Sanchez, a year after Arsenal's last La Liga swoop of Mesut Ozil, joined from FC Barcelona for around £35 million.  Sanchez was Chile's star man at the World Cup and often impressive at Barcelona but was overlooked with the presence of Lionel Messi and Neymar.  He is bound to be the focal point of Arsene Wenger's side and adds much needed pace and power in attack which was found wanting with Olivier Giroud.  I do not expect them to go all the way as I think in the games that count, we can still get caught out and over powered, 3rd place for me.  The return of Manchester United will see them return to Europe's elite stage and finish 4th.  Louis Van Gaal has a very privileged pedigree.  As seen in Brazil, he is a shrewd tactician and excellent man manager.  United are a team needing a pick me up and no doubt will be woken up by the Dutchman and any slacking will result in a shove out of the Old Trafford exit door.  Despite the new coach's arrival, experienced faces have departed Carrington in Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra, the ever-presents in the last Sir Alex period of success.  Van Gaal has brought in Luke Shaw to replace Evra and will implement a back 3 system, as seen with Holland.  Central defence is an area which still needs strengthening I think as well as a dominating central midfielder to sit back whilst the latest in La Liga imports Ander Herrera accompanies Juan Mata, Wayne Rooney and co. in attack.  Pre-season has been confident and accomplished from United with 5 wins in 5 games, but this means nothing as now the question will be as to whether Van Gaal can bring the arrogance and intimidating manner back to Old Trafford?

Chasing Pack

As these four will slowly pull away from the rest, it will be a very tight call from 5th down to 10th next season.  Let's start with the two just short of Champions League football, Liverpool and Everton.  I think the Merseyside teams will have good campaigns, but probably not as successful as the extremely high standards of the last campaign.  Roberto Martinez's first season instilled at Goodison went just short of perfectly, whilst Liverpool out did themselves entirely with a valiant title challenge.  At Anfield, a once hailed Uruguayan has sailed his ship to sunny Spain.  Luis Suarez, despite being under a 4 month ban from football activity has joined FC Barcelona for £75 million.  Liverpool, therefore, have spent this money widely.  Southampton trio Dejan Lovren, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert signed on for a total fee of £49 million.  Winger Lazar Markovic followed in from Benfica after a successful treble campaign in Portugal.  Divock Origi was next after a breakthrough World Cup with Belgium, he was though loaned back to Lille for next season.  Liverpool have a strong team, whether they can compete in Europe is one question, whether they can fill the void of the irreplaceable Luis Suarez is another.  Daniel Sturridge can be the main answer for goals, yet other than him, there are not many convincing candidates.  Adam Lallana is a talented player clearly, can he deliver at a high stage, at a top team with high expectations, maybe.  Phillipe Coutinho is also a player with immense quality, but goals is not his forte.  You can always count on Steven Gerrard to come up with a few goals but as he sits back into a deep lying midfield role, will he get as many opportunities to make those trademark late runs to the penalty area? Possibly not.  So I'll say 5th this year for Rodgers' side, yet a big name forward to replace Suarez brought in can change this.  Everton also have European football again, which may strain the squad.  It was important they got Gareth Barry after a superb season on loan, likewise Romelu Lukaku.  A club record £28 million forked out for the Chelsea striker.  With his proven record in England in loan spells at West Brom and Everton, it could be a top buy from Martinez.  A few more players will be needed at Goodison though with a demanding Europa League campaign ahead.  A top 4 push could be on the cards but I think it will be just beyond them again, 6th.  

7th to 10th will be close.  Spurs will have a settled season with Mauricio Pocchetino as his system is implemented at White Hart Lane, whether he will last the season, is the real question however.  A couple of signings have already joined up from Wales in Ben Davies and Michel Vorm.  Not high profile names, but players who are improving and prospects.  As is Eric Dier.  The England U21 signed from Sporting Lisbon, ex-Everton is one for the future.  Deadwood is needed to be cleared, but give Pocchetino time and he can drive Spurs up the table in a couple of seasons.  Swansea City and Newcastle United are next.  Newcastle are a very unpredictable side.  6th come the new year, but they drifted to an appalling finish to the season and finished 11th.  The goals of Loic Remy will need replacing and new faces have arrived in numbers up north.  Emmanuel Riviere joined up from Monaco to fill the void, yet another Ligue 1 addition to St James, likewise Remy Cabella, a long time target from Montpellier.  The needed replacement for Yohan Cabaye could guide the Geordies to a successful campaign, a cup run could be on the cards.  Swansea, under Garry Monk, will look to emulate the form in their first couple of seasons and avoid a repeated relegation battle.  The additions of Bafetimbi Gomis and welcome return of Gylfi Sigurdsson are ones which promise a good season ahead.  The retention of Wilfried Bony will be crucial, as Michu has departed on loan, a strike-force of Bony and Gomis with Jonjo Shelvey feeding from midfield is a trio full of talent.  Monk is a man who knows the club inside-out and know how he wants his club to play and be portrayed as, Swansea will be a tough side again next season.  Finally, middle of the pack, West Ham United.  West Ham were in dire trouble last season, but escaped with the know-how and experience of Sam Allardyce.  They have strengthened with World Cup standout Enner Valencia, forward Mauro Zarate and midfielder Diego Poyet.  I think West Ham are a side you never quite know what you're going to see from them, week from week.  They may be towards trouble again come the New Year, but will guide themselves away again.  Whether Allardyce lasts the season, who knows, but it would be a big mistake to sack him if their start is not what they expect. 

That's the top half done, next I will review the bottom half and strugglers for the next Premier League season as well the possible winners of the FA Cup and Capital One Cup. 

Wasteful World XI made to pay

In a closely-fought encounter, it was the SBC side who snatched victory as the World XI squandered a number of opportunities to take something from the game. 

Kick-off was delayed due to travel problems for the two teams, however come 4:30pm, the teams had arrived at Berechurch Road and were ready to get underway.  A late change was forced upon the SBC as midfielder William Deasy did not travel with the squad so Jordan Allston filled in on the flank.  New signing for the World XI Jordan Lipede started on the bench and on loan Chelsea midfielder Callum McLaughlin made his debut in the middle of the park.  The World XI would kick-off the first ever meeting between the two sides as the crowd gathered in anticipation for the start.

The World XI had the better of the opening 10 minutes or so, having more of the ball and looking to run at the SBC back line.  However, goalkeeper Luke Mulvey was assured and was a calm figure in the SBC goal.  Midfielders Joshua Hilario and McLaughlin were seeing a lot of early possession and looking to feed wingers Josh Burrows and Glenn Hastings at all times.  Yet, SBC looked threatening on the counter attack with their front three of Ed Drake, Alex Etim and James Partner.  A quarter of the way through the first half would prove a telling point in the game.  As SBC had a free kick, the World XI back line pushed up field and were caught out.  David Burrows couldn't dispossess Partner who broke through the lines and found a gap in between centre back and fullback.  Etim had scampered in from the left wing and was in the clear.  He reached the edge of the penalty area and beat Justin Herbert with a right footed drive.  Etim's first goal of the season as the SBC took the lead.  The World XI responded with a golden chance from a set piece.  Jordan Lipede was on the field and swung a corner over.  His perfect delivery however could not be reciprocated by Emmanuel Dare.  Up from the back, he managed to lift his header over from about 4 yards out.  The World XI then took the game to the SBC with Lipede and Hilario heavily involved.  Hilario's driving runs from midfield were causing significant problems however shooting space was not clear enough for the Filipino.  Lipede was getting joy on the inside left channel against Giuseppe Murgia and Matthew O'Reily.  Sent clear by Joe Reader, Lipede cut inside and unleashed a stinging shot which fortunately for the SBC, struck the foot of the post.  The rebound wouldn't fall for the World XI who seemed to be coming closer and closer.  Before half-time, Ed Drake found the back of the net only to be adjudged as offside, not for the first time in the game I might add.  At half-time it was 1-0 SBC and World XI had carry on the momentum they'd built up at the end of the half. 

Striker Szymon Wlodarczyk, signed on a free from Legia Warsaw was struggling to get into the game.  SBC were defending admirably so far and had the lead.  The second half began with the SBC on top, Partner pulling the strings and looking for the through ball at all times.  He found his marker when Drake thought he broke the offside trap, the linesman thought otherwise and Drake did let him know of his opinion to the decision.  Chances came and went as Etim put a chance over and then after great work, Partner did the same minutes later.  It was the World XI who applied all the pressure late on as Lipede still couldn't find the net.  Wlodarczyk had arguably the best chance for the World XI.  The ball broke to his feet nicely after a scuffed O'Reily clearance, however, he lifted his shot high and wide to the bemusement of his team-mates.  Mulvey was then called into action right at the end as McLaughlin tried his luck from distance and nearly did the outrageous as the keeper had to fling himself across to his left to tip it over.  The game then ended with both sides spent, they'd given it their all and contributed to an entertaining game of football.  It was SBC who finished victorious and held bragging rights until the next encounter. 

After the game I caught up with SBC striker Ed Drake.  When asked about his team's performance, he said, "We were good, however I thought the World XI maybe were unlucky as they created more chances."  "But they lacked the extra quality to put them away, whereas we took ours, that was the difference."  Then when questioned about his own fitness and performance, "I didn't contribute much as I've been lacking matching fitness.  However, on Friday I'm keen to make up for my display."  After the result the feeling in the SBC camp was "at a higher level and cooled the nerves" said Drake.  "We're all just looking forward to hopefully earning a second victory."  I then managed to get a word with World XI vice captain Callum McLaughlin.  "Coming into this we were underdogs, so we had something to prove.  Every player played for the team and the cause and the performance was outstanding, if not for some unlucky decisions and incidents, it could of been our day."  Asked of his own display, "I feel I was good but lacked the cutting edge to contribute towards the score line.  I feel my influence helped the others less experienced and brought performances out of them that contributed towards a good display, it was a great debut to have."  Ahead of the next clash McLaughlin said, "We don't have the surprise element anymore so this may not be an advantage.  We need to keep level headed and go in as underdogs again, if we play with integrity we can put in another good performance and we'll see what happens."