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Adam’s Premier League Column: Weekly Roundup 9- Drama at Goodison Park and Stamford Bridge

  By O-Posts Team | October 29, 2012 - 22:47 | ,
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Above: Suarez celebrates his opener by pretending to dive in front of Everton boss David Moyes as the Everton faithful look on.

Above: Suarez celebrates his opener by pretending to dive in front of Everton boss David Moyes as the Everton faithful look on.

We witnessed yet again the wonders and drama that the Premier League delivers week in week out.

 

Everton 2 Liverpool 2

The honours were all even after a tasty Merseyside derby. Everton had to come from 2-0 down to draw level, and a point was about right for both sides. Liverpool took the lead early in the first half through a Suarez striker which took a slight deflection of Toffee’s left back Leighton Baines. Suarez then doubled Liverpool’s lead after heading in a perfectly weighted cross from captain Steven Gerrard after twenty minutes.

Two minutes later, Leon Osman netted to half the deficit, then Everton went on from there. Everton kept on pressing and were eventually rewarded, as Steven Naismith converted a Marouane Fellaini cross to draw level on 35 minutes. The pace slowed down come the second half, but still provided top entertainment.

In the dying embers of the game, Luis Suarez believed to have secured the three points, only to look across to see the Linesman’s flag raised. I think Everton will be very happy to come away with a draw, especially being 2-0 down. Liverpool clearly have some work to do, and if they didn’t have Suarez, then who knows what position they would be in.

 

Chelsea 2 Manchester United 3

I think Chelsea were still frightened from their Halloween party on Saturday night! They were caught cold by United, and in the fourth minute, a Robin van Persie shot cannoned of the post to hit the wrong footed David Luiz to put past his own ‘keeper. Eight minutes later, van Persie got his name on the score-sheet. His movement was world class to lose his man, and he took the finish well, curling in a right footed shot from a Valencia cross.

Manchester United were in utter control, although Chelsea still looked to be threatening, but they just couldn’t convert their chances from numerous set pieces, most notably Gary Cahill. Chelsea’s persistence paid off, and just before the interval Juan Mata wonderfully guided a free-kick past the helpless united goalie De Gea to send the Pensioners with something positive to think about.

This game was a true test for Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo, as since he took over from AVB he hasn’t been in such a challenging position (excluding the Champions League final, of course!) Chelsea came out fighting, and were yet again rewarded for their efforts, this time Ramires converted a header from close range.

The drama didn’t stop there though. Chelsea were the victims of two sending’s off, the first came on 62 minutes when the on running Ashley Young, who was back from injury, was clipped by Ivanovic who was the last man and he gave referee Mark Clattenburg no other option. Six minutes later, Torres was also shown his second yellow for an alleged dive, perhaps harshly. Justice was done however, as the Spaniard committed a dangerous foul earlier on in this fast-paced game.

The two red cards forced Di Matteo to reshuffle the side by bringing off Oscar, Hazard and Mata – his most influential players.

Prior to Torres’ sending off, Sir Alex Ferguson brought on Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez, who changed the scope of the game completely. A scramble in the box saw Rafael stab the ball goal wards for it to find the Mexican, who was in an offside position, to slot past Peter Cech.

Chelsea will find themselves hard done by, and who can blame them.

 

Manchester City 1 Swansea 0

Man City wanted to bounce back from their mid-week Champions League heartache by beating a strong Swansea outfit. It was a close fought game, with a second half Carlos Tevez strike separating both sides. A reshuffle in personnel by boss Mancini, which saw Lescott replaced by Nastasic and Agϋro in for Dzeko, seemed to work.

The first half came and went, and the second half was a mere improvement. Carlos Tevez smacked in an effort from far out. Goalkeeper Vorm was injured as a result of the goal, and had to be stretchered off.

 

Wigan 2 West Ham 1

West Ham ended their run of good form at the hands of Wigan at the DW stadium. The Hammers looked weary throughout the game, and the Latics thoroughly deserved the three points. Wigan went in front in the eighth minute via a wonder strike from centre back Ramis, which saw his left footed volley (from a corner) sail past Jaaskelainen.

Wigan further dominated the match, and doubled their lead just after the interval, this time midfielder McArthur pounced on a miskick by the Hammers ‘keeper. West Ham failed to test Latics goalie Ali Al Habsi until the final minute, when James Tomkins netted to half the score line.

 

Arsenal 1 QPR 0

Arsenal left it late to secure the three points and avoid further embarrassment. Last weekend they lost 1-0 to Norwich and also lost 2-0 to Schalke in the Champions League.

The Gunners defence has been inconsistent lately, and the finger has been rightly pointed at assistant manager and former player Steve Bould, but they managed to keep a clean sheet against struggling Queens Park Rangers.

One of England’s and Arsenal’s most promising talents Jack Wilshere made his first senior appearance for seventeen months and played sixty minutes at the Emirates, and he didn’t look to have lost his magic touch. He has done really well to stay strong throughout his time on the side-lines, as it is a true test of one’s character. Nonetheless, he played really well and his future looks ever so bright.

Arsenal had a few chances to take the lead but couldn’t capitalise, and they were dominating the match more that the score line suggests. The winning goal came moments after Mbia was shown red for a kick on Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen. Arteta’s initial shot hit the bar, but he followed up to poke in from close range.

 

Aston Villa 1 Norwich 1

Villa boss Paul Lambert was the centre of attention in this game for only one reason. The legal battle that surrounds Lambert and the two clubs is still in the air, and all is not forgotten. Villa have been struggling for goals lately, but went 1-0 ahead via Belgium forward Benteke who slotted calmly past ‘keeper John Ruddy.

Villa were reduced to ten men after Joe Bennett was sent off for a second bookable offence. That sending off put Villa on the back foot, and from that moment onwards they struggled to contain the Canaries.

Norwich had the last chirp as Turner headed in to earn a deserved point.

 

Reading 3 Fulham 3

This was a cracker at the Madejski Stadium. The deadlock was broken after 26 minutes as midfielder Leigertwood scored a wonderful goal to put Reading ahead. Fulham then equalised after Bryan Ruiz came off the bench to make the score 1-1 with a spectacular strike on 61 minutes, his first of the season.

Fulham then turned the game on its head as this time they took the lead through Chris Baird’s near post header. Then a dramatic last five minutes ensued. McCleary leveled for Reading from seven yards out on 85 minutes. Three minutes later, Dimitar Berbatov curled in a shot for what he believed to be a winner.

In the 90th, Robson-Kanu came out on top in a defensive scramble to poke home past Mark Schwarzer to earn a point. In the last minute of injury time, Reading had a chance to win, but Schwarzer made two superb saves to keep the spoils even.

 

Newcastle 2 West Brom 1

Another dramatic game! Newcastle took the lead through Demba Ba’s strike on 31 minutes. Romelu Lukaku, on-loan from Chelsea netted to equalise. Newcastle were on the back foot for the majority of the match, but found themselves ahead with less than a minute to play, as Shola Ameobi’s shot cannoned off the back of Cisse’s back and into the goal.

When asked for his reaction to the loss, Baggie’s boss Steve Clark told BBC Sport, “I certainly didn’t think it would be a game we were going to lose. I thought we had good control in the first half and created good chances. I felt we were unfortunate to be behind at half-time. It was a horrible moment, a big deflection in injury time and it’s in the back of the net.”

 

Southampton 1 Tottenham 2

Gareth Bale headed in against his former club to give Spurs the lead after 15 minutes. Clint Dempsey then doubled the lead after Jermain Defoe’s initial shot was cleared off the line. Rodriquez then gave the Saints some hope after he scored to make the score-line 2-1.

Southampton couldn’t keep the momentum going, and Tottenham fully deserved their three points. A disappointing loss for Nigel Adkins’ Saints.

 

Stoke 0 Sunderland 0

A poor game, and one to forget really. Mignolet’s double save in the first half was the highlight of the game, and the Black Cats have him to thank for the point. A draw was well deserved for both sides, although I feel Stoke will be a bit frustrated with their performance.

 

My Team of the Week

 

Written by Adam May

Follow him on Twitter @Adam132Football

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Adam’s Premier League Column: Weekly Round Up 7- Chelsea put four past the Canaries

  By O-Posts Team | October 9, 2012 - 00:58 | , ,
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Chelsea v Norwich City

 

Chelsea 4 Norwich 1

Chelsea were victorious at Stamford Bridge, putting aside their many off-field problems and sending them top of the pile. Endless Court Cases, disciplinary charges and Twitter rows surrounded the Blues, and eleven minutes in, things got worse as Norwich hero Grant Holt scored to put the visitor’s ahead. But after 14 minutes, all was forgotten as Spaniard Fernando Torres headed in to equalise.

It was the start of a torrid afternoon for the Canaries, with the likes of Eden Hazard, Oscar, and Juan Mata all on top form and playing well. Frank Lampard still showed us what he can do by doubling Chelsea’s lead with a well taken goal from just inside the box. He has been a wonderful servant to the club, and he still has lots to give.

Eden Hazard continued his scintillating form in front of goal, by scoring Chelsea’s third of the afternoon. The scoring didn’t stop there as Ivanovic thumped in an effort to seal the victory.

Norwich paid for their missed chances, and they will no doubt be frustrated with themselves as they still search for their first league win and have conceded 17 goals.

 

West Ham 1 Arsenal 3

Arsenal had to come from behind to beat a very physical West Ham United side at Upton Park. The Hammers were blowing their bubbles on 21 minutes as midfield talisman Diame netted from an incredibly tight angle to stick the Irons noses in front.

West Ham’s defence stood strong throughout the first half, but was sliced open by a beautifully weighted cross by Lukas Podolski which found Olivier Giroud, who then tucked it away to score his first Premier League goal for the Gunners.

Arsenal kept mounting on the pressure after the interval, and it was only a matter of time before Arsenal scored a second. That’s what happened. The second half was dominated by Arsenal, with them having an impressive fourteen shots on target to West Ham’s three.

Kevin Nolan missed a sitter for the Hammers, and if he put that away, which he normally does, then the result would have been very different. A plethora of chances were pondered soon after, and it took Theo Walcott to come off the bench to put the Gunners in front and break the deadlock.

Then six minutes later, midfielder Santi Carzola, and perhaps the signing of the season for Arsenal, scored a spectacular goal to put the gloss on the deserved victory.

 

Manchester City 3 Sunderland 0

Manchester City silenced their critics with a comfortable victory over Martin O’Neil’s Black Cats at the Etihad. A defensive reshuffle saw City claim their first clean sheet of the season, with Richards and Lescott coming in for Nastastic and Kompany.

Sunderland were on the back foot as soon as the fifth minute as Carlos Tevez was brought down when through on goal, the resulting free-kick was turned in by Aleksandar Kolarov from a tight angle. Man City had to wait until 60 minutes to double their lead, although they had chances to score much earlier.

Still, Sergio Agϋero came off the bench to score the second, and the Citizens didn’t stop there. James Milner rounded off a fine afternoon for City, his free-kick took a slight deflection.

Man City will take lots of positives from this game, and I’m looking forward to what they can do when the Premier League returns in  two weeks’ time.

 

Swansea 2 Reading 2

Michael Laudrup’s Swans were swimming in deep water and had to come from two goals down to salvage a point at the Liberty Stadium.

Reading’s first goal could have been prevented and Swans ‘keeper Michel Vorm will be the first to admit it after he let Pavel Pogrebnyak’s shot underneath him. Hunt doubled the lead just before the break with a great volley.

Swansea came out fighting in the second half, and were rewarded with their efforts, Michu scoring his sixth goal this season to pull one back on 71 minutes. Wayne Routledge completed the comeback as the Swans drew level after 78 minutes.

Warning signs are there for Michael Laudrup, and he will need to start digging in to get results, although he shouldn’t alter his philosophy to just get wins, he needs to stick by what he believes in.

 

West Brom 3 Queens Park Rangers 2

QPR added to the disappointing loss at Loftus Road earlier on in the week at the hands of West Ham with a 3-2 defeat at the Hawthorns. Steve Clarke continues his fine run as West Brom boss and they now have fourteen points on the board.

The pressure is growing on Mark Hughes as QPR boss, although owner Fernandez has described his position as ‘safe’. Morrison opened the scoring as early as the fifth minute. Zoltan Gera doubled the lead before Adel Taarabt netted to draw one back.

The comeback was on, but Mulumbu thought otherwise, increasing West Brom’s lead to 3-1. Man of the match Granero scored a delightful goal for the visitors to make the score 3-2. Then, the best chance of the game came to QPR full back Jose Bosingwa to blast over, and that was to be the last kick of the game.

Under-fire QPR boss Mark Hughes talked to BBC Sport and here’s what he had to say; “In the early part of the game we gave ourselves too much to do. We talk about the fundamentals of defending and we didn’t do that. We didn’t start correctly. We were slow and not dynamic. They produced two good balls and we didn’t deal with them. If you go 2-0 down away from home it’s nigh-on impossible to get back into it. For the vast majority of the game I thought we were in control, but we need to take the defensive errors out of our game.”

 

Wigan 2 Everton 2

Leighton Baines rescued the point for Everton against his old club at the DW stadium. Kone put the home team in the lead; he put in a real shift and was absolutely superb on the day. The lead didn’t last long though, as a minute later Everton frontman Jelavic scored to pull the teams level. Wigan then went in front again.

 

Southampton 2 Fulham 2

Martin Jol’s Fulham thought they stole the three points at St Mary’s after coming behind to take the lead. Southampton initially went in front when Fonte guided in a header for it to find the top corner in the fourth minute.

Fulham then equalised on 70 minutes when Jon Arne Riise’s shot struck the foot of Hooiveld who deflected it in. Fulham, who were without star striker Dimitar Berbatov, carried in pressing and were eventually rewarded. Kieran Richardson netted to put the Cottagers in front. Fulham thought they had grabbed the three points, and so did some of the Southampton faithful, who actually left the stadium with time a plenty.

Southampton centre back Fonte scored his second goal of the game to earn a share of the spoils at St Mary’s for Nigel Adkins Saints.

 

Newcastle 0 Manchester United 3

Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United rectified last week’s disappointing loss at Tottenham with a comfortable win over Newcastle.

On 8 minutes Johnny Evans scored a free header to send the Red Devils in front, and seven minutes later the Toons were left fuming again as they conceded from yet another set piece, this time as Patrice Evra found himself unmarked to head United two goals to the good.

Tom Cleverley then rounded off the scoring with an attempted cross which found the back of Steven Taylor’s goal, to finish what was in truth, a walk in the park, Newcastle hardly threatened.

 

Liverpool 0 Stoke 0

It was goalless at Anfield, although both sides had a chance to capitalise. Pepe Reina’s back passes went astray on a couple of occasions, but the Potters couldn’t accept the gift. All in all, a poor game, and I’m sure Brendan Rodgers will be disappointed with his teams efforts.

 

Tottenham 2 Aston Villa 0

Andre Villas-Boas’ decision to omit Brad Friedel from the starting line-up ended his 310th consecutive Premier League appearance, meaning he hadn’t missed a game since May 2004, which is a fantastic achievement. So in came France Number one Hugo Lloris, and if truth be told, his distribution was quite poor.

Nonetheless, Spurs kept a clean sheet, and their frontline played well, linking up nicely. Steven Caulker scored his first goal in Tottenham colours, although at the time he didn’t know much about it, as the initial shot by England front man Jermain Defoe ricocheted into the back of the net via his leg.

Tottenham carried on pressing, and Aaron Lennon, who was recently called up to the England squad for their up and coming World Cup Qualifiers, doubled Spurs’ lead with a well taken shot which found the bottom corner.

 

Team of the Week

 

Written by Adam May

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EPL: The Top 10 Goalkeepers of the Premier League era

  By O-Posts Team | September 5, 2012 - 16:46 | , , , , , , , , ,
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Peter Schmeichel

After compiling a list of my top 10 defenders and strikers, I decided to do something similar on the best glovemen we have seen over the last 20 years.

Like previous top 10 lists, the rankings are based on a number of aspects, including quality, trophies and longevity.

 

10. Jussi Jaaskelainen – Clubs: Bolton, West Ham – Prem apps: 382

Jussi Jaaskelainen has been a solid, consistent goalkeeper for over a decade at the top level. Making over 350 appearances, the Finn had been a key player for Bolton, helping them establish in the Premier League, as well as qualify for the UEFA Cup in 2007.

Jaaskelainen ended his long alliance with the Trotters in 2012, signing for newly promoted West Ham.

 

9. Nigel Martyn – Clubs: Crystal Palace, Leeds, Everton – Prem apps: 372

Nigel Martyn became the first ever seven figure goalkeeper upon signing for Crystal Palace in 1989. He played two seasons in the Premier League (1992-93), (1994-95), but was relegated both times.

After losing the First Division Play-off Final with the Londoners in 1996, Martyn completed a move to Leeds for a then record keeper signing at £2.25m.

Over the following 7 years, Martyn was consistently outstanding, and only the form of David Seaman denied him more than the 23 caps he won for England. He was also picked for the PFA Team of the Year in three consecutive seasons (1998-2000)

At the age of 37, Martyn left Leeds to join Everton. He was quickly established as first choice keeper at Goodison, and in 2004/05, his brilliant displays helped them to a 4th place finish in the Premier League.

Martyn retired in the summer of 2006, having made exactly 100 appearances for the Toffees.

 

8. Joe Hart – Clubs: Birmingham, Manchester City – Prem apps: 165

Joe Hart signed for Manchester City in 2006 at the age of 19, after more than 50 appearances for his home town club, Shrewsbury Town. He made just a single Premier League start for City, before two successful loan spells at Tranmere and Blackpool.

In 2007/08, under new boss Sven Goran Eriksson, Hart became first choice at the City of Manchester Stadium, making 26 appearances, keeping 7 clean sheets. In the summer of ’08, Hart made his international debut for England, and remained first choice at City, until he was dropped in February ’09, in favour of new signing Shay Given.

Hart then excelled for newly promoted Birmingham City on loan, helping the Midlanders to a mid-table finish. Despite his great form (he was voted Premier League goalkeeper of the year in 2009/10) he was criminally overlooked as first choice for England’s World Cup campaign in South Africa.

In the last two years, Hart has established himself as one of the world’s finest goalkeepers, with his immense shot stopping and superb all round game.

He won the Golden Glove award in both 2010/11 and 2011/12, keeping a combined total of 35 clean sheets, as well as winning his first Premier League title in 2012 with City.

 

7. Pepe Reina – Club: Liverpool – Prem apps: 257

Pepe Reina completed a move to Liverpool in the summer of 2005, for a fee believed to be close to £6m. The Spainiard’s first season in England was a huge success, helping Liverpool to a 3rd place finish by keeping 20 clean sheets and winning the Golden Glove award, an honour he retained in the following two seasons. He also played his part in Liverpool’s F.A Cup triumph, saving three penalties in the shoot-out against West Ham.

Reina continued to perform solidly in the following seasons, with a fine distribution one of the strongest facets of his game. Whilst there were a number of casual blunders, this was offset by some great displays.

Reina made over 180 consecutive Premier League appearances for Liverpool, until he was sent off in a 2-0 defeat at Newcastle in April 2012. His 257 games include 120 shut-outs.

 

6. Shay Given – Clubs: Newcastle, Manchester City, Aston Villa – Prem apps: 440

Shay Given moved to Blackburn in the summer of 1994 on a free transfer, after two years without a single appearance at Celtic. Following lower league loan spells at Swindon and Sunderland, Given left Ewood Park and joined Newcastle for £1.5m in 1997.

Given made almost 350 league appearances in a 12 year spell for Newcastle, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s best ever shot stoppers. In the early 2000′s, his performances helped Newcastle to three consecutive top 5 finishes, and he was named in the PFA Team of the Year in 2001-02.

The Irish international left a struggling Newcastle in February 2009, completing an £8million move to Manchester City. He immediately dislodged Joe Hart as the first choice keeper, and the following year he was a key member of a City side that eventually finished 5th in the Premier League.

A revitalized Hart regained the shirt for 2010/11, with Given subjected, domestically, to just a single League Cup appearance. In the summer of 2011, he joined Aston Villa, playing 32 times as the West Midlanders narrowly avoided relegation.

 

5. Brad Friedel – Clubs: Liverpool, Blackburn, Aston Villa, Tottenham – Prem apps: 441

Still one of the Premier League’s best goalkeepers at 41, Brad Friedel has been a hugely consistent performer at the top level for a number of years.

The American had seen moves to both Nottingham Forest and Newcastle denied by work permits in the early 90′s, but he eventually managed to sign for Liverpool in 1997. He featured only sporadically in his time at Anfield, before joining Blackburn in 2000.

It was at Ewood Park where Friedel began to show his quality. An almost ever present during his 8 year spell, he was included in the PFA Team of the Year in 2002/03 after a string of superb performances, and even managed to find the net in an away game at Charlton in February 2004!

Friedel left Blackburn to sign for Aston Villa in 2008. After three successful seasons at Villa Park, he left to join Spurs, with whom he helped to a 4th place finish.

He is currently on a run of a record 307 consecutive Premier League appearances, stretching back more than 8 years.

 

4. Petr Cech – Club: Chelsea – Prem apps: 257

Petr Cech signed a pre contact agreement with Chelsea in February 2004, joining the Londoners following a fine European Championship with Czech Republic.

Cech was a barnstorming success in his first season in English football, forming an almost impenetrable back 5 as Jose Mourinho’s new look side romped to the Premier League title. He kept a record 21 clean sheets to win the Golden Glove award, as well as being named in the PFA team of the year. During the season, Cech also went unbeaten for 1,025 minutes, before Leon Mackenzie of Norwich netted in a 3-1 Chelsea win.

Voted the world’s best keeper in 2005, Cech continued to excel as Chelsea retained their Premier League title. In a game against Reading in the early stages of 2006/07, Cech suffered a depressed skull fracture following a challenge with Stephen Hunt, ruling him out for three months.

Since returning, Cech has been forced to wear a headguard to protect his injury. He ended the season by helping Chelsea win the F.A Cup, the first at the new Wembley Stadium.

Cech has remained a consistent keeper, if not replicating his early Chelsea form. In 2009/10, he was invaluable as Chelsea won their third Premier League title. Cech won the Golden Glove award for the second time, keeping 17 clean sheets from 34 games.

Cech has won 4 F.A Cup titles with Chelsea, as well as the Champions League in 2012.

 

3. Edwin Van der Sar – Clubs: Fulham, Manchester United – Prem apps: 313

After spells at Ajax and Juventus, Edwin van der Sar made a shock move to Fulham in the summer of 2001. His fine form for the Cottagers earned a move to Manchester United four years later

Van der Sar re-established himself as one of the world’s best keepers at Old Trafford, as United finally found a worthy successor to Peter Schmeichel. As well as his shot stopping, the Dutchman was also a wonderful distributor of the ball. He helped the Red Devils to three consecutive Premier League titles, as well as saving the crucial shoot-out penalty in their 2008 Champions League triumph. In 2009, he stayed unbeaten for a world record 1,311 minutes, and won the Golden Glove award, keeping 21 clean sheets.

Van der Sar was included in the PFA Team of the Year on three occasions, winning four Premier League titles.

He retired in 2011, following United’s Champions League Final defeat to Barcelona.

 

2. David Seaman – Clubs: Arsenal, Manchester City – Prem apps: 344

David Seaman was a fine Premier League custodian for more than a decade. Having signed for Arsenal in 1990, Seaman helped the North London side to two Premier League titles, as well as four runner-up finishes.

A solid, unflappable keeper, Seaman served Arsenal with distinction, making 325 Premier League appearances. He kept 141 clean sheets (a record until David James overtook it in 2007) and was named in the PFA Team of the Year in 1997.

Seaman also won four F.A Cups, as well as the League Cup in 1993 and the UEFA Cup Winners Cup in 1994. In 2003, he left Arsenal for Manchester City, making 19 appearances before retiring at the age of 40.

In 2002, Seaman was voted into the best domestic team of the first Premier League decade.

 

1. Peter Schmeichel – Clubs: Manchester United, Aston Villa, Manchester City – Prem apps: 310

Signing for just £500,000 in 1991, Peter Schmeichel surely has to go down as Sir Alex Ferguson’s best bargain at Old Trafford!

A domineering presence in the United goal, Schmeichel kept 22 clean sheets as United won the first ever Premier League title in 1993, a title they retained the following season.

In 1995/96, Schemichel was again inspirational, never more so than in United’s crucial 1-0 win away at title rivals Newcastle. The result tipped the balance in United’s favour, who went on to win the Premier League title for the third time.

Schmeichel was a key member of the treble winning side of 1999, and ended his United career in the Nou Camp following the dramatic win over Bayern Munich.

After two years in Portugal, Schmeichel returned to the Premier League with Aston Villa, making just short of 30 appearances (and scoring one goal!). He then made a similar contribution to United’s rivals, Manchester City, before retiring in 2003.

Schmeichel won four Premier League titles at United, as well as three F.A Cups. He was voted the best goalkeeper of the Premier League in the 20 Seasons Award, and also indicted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2003.

As hard as it was to compile most of this list, the decision to put Schemichel at No. 1 was simple. One of the best keepers of all time, he possessed extraordinary reflexes (look up his save against Rapid Vienna, it is better than Banks’!) and had an aura and presence about him that very few in the game have ever had.

 

Unarguably, the greatest keeper to play in the Premier League!

 

Keepers who just missed out

David James was close to getting into the top 10. He holds the record for the most clean sheets, and he did perform superbly at Portsmouth and consistently well at Manchester City, but made too many errors to be considered top class.

Mark Schwarzer was close, and it was almost a 50-50 between him and Jaaskelainen.

Tim Flowers also wasn’t far away, especially after his performances in helping Blackburn to the title in 1995.

 

Written by Nick Wall

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2012/13 EPL Preview: Here we go again

  By O-Posts Team | August 17, 2012 - 16:10 | , , , , , ,
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After the unquestionable snooze fest that was World Cup 2010, I thoroughly enjoyed Euro 2012. There was much more of an attacking intent from the teams involved, but one constant remained: Spain again emerged victorious, showing the importance of creation, movement and being able to keep possession.

The Spanish method, it would appear, has resonated with some of those in power at the top end of the Premier League. Chelsea have spent big to recruit smaller, more dynamic and technically gifted attacking midfielders in Marko Marin, Eden Hazard and Oscar, to add the existing talents of Juan Mata. Spurs dispensed with the services of Harry Redknapp and brought in Andre Villa Boas, who in his short reign at Chelsea favoured the 4-3-3 attacking approach.

Liverpool decided to replace manager and club legend Kenny Dalglish with Brendan Rogers, whose style of play and formation is similar to that of Barcelona. Even Man Utd signing Kagawa from Borussia Dortmund would suggest a change in formation if they are to truly capitalise on the Japanese playmakers remarkable talents.

With Arsenal’s style of play already established in the Spanish vein and defending Champions Man City wealth of attacking options centred around the technique and movement of David Silva and Sergio Aguero, could the upper echelon of the Premier League be moving toward the more subtle Spanish approach?

Personally, I hope the Premier League is moving to a move technique driven approach and it’s a move that would have long term benefits to the National side. I feel the overall standard of the Premier League has gone down over the past few seasons, despite Chelsea winning the Champions League in May. However, after a six week break from competitive football since the final of the Euros, I look forward to this season with the usual trepidation.

In terms of the where the title will go, I’m going to be boring and say I can’t see beyond the same two sides as last season.

Man City, as defending champions, will have to deal with a different pressure now; I don’t think there’s any argument that they have the best team and the best squad, but it’s not only question of whether or not they have learned from almost throwing the title away in the second half of last season, but do they have the hunger and desire to give what it takes to be champions again, having already done it.

That ability and experience of being able to push on and win titles consistently is something that Man Utd have in their locker. They will also be hurting; having seemingly having last season’s championship in their grasp as City dropped 10 points in 5 games around March/April that saw Utd move ahead and take what seemed to be an unassailable lead.

Signing Robin Van Persie is without doubt Man Utd strengthening their squad, his quality is without question, but a total wage/transfer fee package of around £70m over the next four years on an injury plagued 29 year old in the last year of his contract is a gamble.

Quite how Utd maintain a balance on the pitch whilst also accommodating the attacking talents of Rooney, Van Persie, Kagawa, Young, Nani, Valencia, Welbeck and Hernandez will be interesting. 8 into 3 or 4 places doesn’t go and will be hard to keep everyone happy, but managing a squad is one of Ferguson’s strengths.

On the face of it, signing last year’s Premier League top scorer is usually a no-brainer, but I found it a little strange, having already signed Kagawa and Utd’s existing strength in depth in that position; also considering that centre midfield and right back are the positions more in need of improvement.

In comparison, City have so far only recruited Jack Rodwell from Everton; a signing more with the future, rather than the present in mind; although Rodwell’s man-marking ability means he could be used in the big Premier League and Champions League matches.

In the clamour for what I believe will be the remaining 2 Champions League spots, most of the contenders are arguably in a process of transition. Arsenal, despite signing the promising Giroud and the proven quality of Podolski and Cazorla, have lost their talisman and top scorer in Van Persie.

They also still have weakness at defensive midfield and left back to address, though they may make further acquisitions between now and the closing of the transfer window. Many Arsenal fans may point to Song at DM, but I believe he lacks the necessary discipline in that position and an upgrade is needed to help the back four.

That being said, I expect Arsenal to finish in the top four, come next May.

Chelsea have spent big, but lack quality in depth in defence and central midfield. Although the achievement of winning the FA Cup and Champions League cannot be discounted, their Premier League performances were not significantly better under Di Matteo and they still lacked a consistency under him last season. Unless they can improve that and avoid injuries in defensive areas, it could be another season of upheaval, I could just as easily see them finishing 3rd as finishing 7th.

Tottenham made a big call in sacking Harry Redknapp and perhaps a bigger call in replacing him with Andre Villa Boas, given how his first season in Premier League management went at Chelsea. With the impending departure of Modric, the failure to sign Adebayor permanently and the loss of senior pros from the squad, most notably Ledley King, means Gareth Bale could be relied on even more than usual and it may just be a season of disappointment for Spurs.

Liverpool’s league campaign last season was a major disappoint and one that cost Kenny Dalglish his job. After an impressive first Premier League season with Swansea, Brendan Rodgers was the man Liverpool’s owners wanted to replace him and he’s already got Liverpool looking comfortable with his preferred formation and style of play. Agger and Skrtel looked the best central defensive partnership in the league last season and retaining them, as well as having Lucas back fit, will be a huge plus for Rodgers as he tries to get Liverpool back in the Champions League. Although new signing Joe Allen will help Liverpool’s pattern of play, it’s tough to see Liverpool breaking into the top four this season.

Newcastle impressed many last year and surprised us all by staying in contention for a top four place right till the end. Papiss Cisse had a great goalscoring run after signing in January, but the challenge for him and Newcastle is to do it all again. Teams will be more prepared for Newcastle this season and it’s a question of if they have the necessary quality to overcome that and replicate their exploits of last year. Anita could be a good piece of business for the Magpies, but I find it hard to see them breaking the top six this season.

Everton have lost Tim Cahill and Jack Rodwell, but the re-signing of Pienaar on a permanent deal and the acquisition of Steven Naismith could be important for them and if they can avoid their usual slow start to the season, they could be the surprise contenders for a top six finish.

At the other end of the table, it’s often harder to predict the 3 teams who will go down, then who will win the league and this season is no different. As always, the newly promoted teams will be amongst the favourites, as will Wigan, who surely cannot defy the impossible on a shoestring yet again. After losing their influential managers, Swansea and Norwich will be hoping that second season-itis does not strike them, but I can see it being a tough campaign for both clubs. West Brom, for me, are another club that could be in for a difficult season with Steve Clarke making the step up from being a number 2.

If I have to put my neck on the line, I’ll say Man Utd will likely sneak the title, with Wigan, Reading and Norwich being the ones to go down. Whatever the outcome though, like many, I’m just happy that football is back with us and look forward to the trepidation that it brings.

 

Written by Andy Wales

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EPL Transfer Talk: Best Business So Far

  By O-Posts Team | August 17, 2012 - 12:26 | , , , , , , , ,
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With just a day to go until the start of the 2012/13 Premier League campaign, PitchSideTalk looks at some of the best business completed so far.

Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, Internacional to Chelsea, £25million.

Chelsea Football Club have completed the signing of 20-year-old Oscar from Brazilian club Internacional. Priced at £25-million, the youngster is by no means a bargain for the South London club but nevertheless comes with a huge reputation. Noticeably fellow Brazilian and one of the world’s most wanted strikers, Neymar, has recently been complimenting the talented midfielder. In what is certainly a period of transition for the European Champions, Oscar can offer youth in an ageing midfield, spurring the beginning of Chelsea’s next chapter. He is currently with the Brazil Olympic squad in London.

Ji-Sung Park, Manchester United to QPR, Est. £2m.

The South Korean midfielder has moved to London club QPR after spending seven successful years with Manchester United. Despite being a squad player at Old Trafford, his importance to the club has always been recognised by Sir Alex Ferguson, who would often use him in the biggest of games. Now 31-years-old the utility man has the opportunity to enjoy a more pivotal role in London. Having only cost in the region of £2-million, Park’s deal is a savvy one for his new club. Not only will he offer vital experience on the field but will increase the clubs image worldwide. He is hugely popular in Asia which will please his clubs Air Asia sponsors.

Junior Hoilett, Blackburn to QPR, Free.

QPR have been amongst the busiest of clubs in this summers transfer market, clearly keen on avoiding a relegation battle like the one they faced just a few months ago. And among their business they have signed 22-year-old Junior Hoilett on a free from Blackburn. The Canadian midfielder, who was the shining light in a poor Blackburn squad last year, caught the eye of a number of Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Tottenham. However he has opted to rejoin Mark Hughes who incidentally gave him his first professional contract during his time as Blackburn’s first team manager.

Santi Cazorla, Malaga to Arsenal, Est. £17m

The Spanish international has amassed 45 caps for his country during their period of world dominance, which immediately suggests his quality. His ability to play in both central and wide midfield positions will suit the fluidity of Arsenal’s game. The club have reached deep into their pockets this summer, so far spending an estimated £40-million on Cazorla, Poldolski and Giroud in attempt to retain the services of captain Robin van Persie. These additions, the return from injury of Wilshere and Song and the potential signing of Nuri Sahin from Real Madrid will fill fans with optimism ahead of the season.

A range of valuable signings, from excellent free transfers to expenditure on players barely out of their teens. The world of football never seizes to surprise. However, with limited contribution from both Manchester clubs in this summer’s transfer market, there is certainly business to be completed and big signings to be made over the coming weeks.

 

Written by Alfie Long

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