What England need

By David Lee Wheatley

Hodgson must be prepared to revolutionise

England's poor display on Wednesday at Wembley versus the Republic of Ireland only heightened the clamour for a new style of football to be introduced by the country that gave the game to the world.

With the national team jetting off to face Brazil in the Maracana this weekend to mark the 150th anniversary of the Football Association, now seems an ideal time to reflect on the progression, or lack there of, that England have managed under Roy Hodgson since his appointment shortly before Euro 2012.

In just over a year in charge, Hodgson has overseen a mixed bag of results and performances from the national side under his instruction. There's been some high points, such as the friendly win at home to this Sunday's opponents Brazil, with some bitter blows along the way including the draw with World Cup qualifying group rivals Montenegro and the penalty loss to Italy at the European Championships, after an embarrassingly one-sided affair.

The clash with Ireland proved once and for all that England must dispense with the rigid 4-4-2 system for good. The best teams, in fact most teams these days, know precisely how to combat a side that lines up with two banks of four and displays little or no dynamism in or out of possession. When Hodgson has been a little more adventurous tactically with three forwards or five in the middle of the park, England have looked a darn sight better and much more able to express themselves without being overrun in midfield. The archaic 4-4-2 formation that offers no flexibility must be banished, with much more emphasis placed on ball retention and an attacking outlook instead.

I still can't quite get my head around the notion that English players can't adapt, aren't able to hold the ball, or are wholly incapable of controlling games against quality opposition. This strange mindset has been forced on this nation's players by the media and public perception and national coaches that can't put their inhibitions to one side so that their charges can go out and display their technical ability on the highest stage.

The level of players that England have been blessed with over the last 10 years or so should have been good enough to lead the country much closer to glory. But instead, constant failures at quarter-final stages of various tournaments have scuppered any chance of major trophy-winning success.

We could go on all night debating the years of coaching that has focused on work ethic and hard running over technical ability, when that should have been the first thing on the list to teach kids coming through the ranks. Besides all of that, surely footballers of the ilk of Gerrard, Ashley Cole, Rio Ferdinand, Lampard and Wayne Rooney should have been a match for any opponent in the world. Those types of players need to be given licence to express themselves, encouraged to try different things and instructed to keep moving both in and out of possession. Sitting in a rigid bank of four with only a lanky forward to aim at may have been the acceptable way to play donkey's years ago, but something has to change radically and quickly.

The 'golden era' when the players I've just named were all in their prime has gone by with a whimper; now has to be the time when the national coach Hodgson grants his current crop the opportunity to play an entertaining brand of football and sticks to those principles through thick and thin.

Of course, coaching has improved dramatically at youth levels in recent times, but nobody can tell me that the top Premier League players of today, with all their vast experience domestically, in European club football and at international level, are unable to compete against other top nations while employing passing, enterprising football. I refuse to believe that footballers at the top of their game in the Premier League can't transfer that form to the international stage.

So, starting right now, Hodgson must plant the seed in the minds of his squad that they can play football on the deck, pass to each other without losing possession, and create numerous chances for the forward players to get on the scoresheet through cunning, skilful, attack-minded play.

Don't tell me that these footballers on massive wages, who produce each week in what is still the world's best league, aren't able to do it on the international front. It takes both a swift change in mentality and the ability of the national coach to simply instil some confidence in the players he chooses to represent the nation for success to then follow.

This country gave the world the greatest gift they could have received 150 years ago with the handing over of what is now the most-loved sport on this Earth. Maybe it's about time the Three Lions took back their place at the top of the football tree after all of these years.

Twitter: @davewh1980

If the Jackett fits

By David Lee Wheatley

From the Lions' den to the Wolves' lair

Experienced manager Kenny Jackett has been entrusted with the task of putting Wolverhampton Wanderers back on track after two successive relegation campaigns have dumped the Midlands club into the third-tier of English football for the first time since 1989.

Having dispensed with the services of Mick McCarthy when struggling in the lower reaches of the Premier League, Wolves owner Steve Morgan oversaw a catalogue of disastrous decisions in relation to the managerial hot-seat at Molineux.

First assistant manager Terry Conner got the nod after McCarthy's harsh removal from his position, but he presided over a painful nosedive into the Championship. Then Norwegian Stale Solbakken took the reins only to leave a few months afterwards with Wolves sitting 18th in the league.

Cue Dean Saunders' introduction from Doncaster Rovers in a last-gasp bid to avoid another devastating demotion. However, he took ten games to find his first victory at the club and it was a constant battle until the last day of the season, when only an unlikely set of results could have saved Wanderers from the drop. Alas, it wasn't to be and Saunders got the boot before any opportunity could be granted to resurrect Wolves to their former glory.

Now, the much-maligned Morgan has turned to former Millwall and Swansea City boss Jackett to help drive the Black Country boys back up the league ladder. The former Wales international footballer knows the lower leagues intimately, having guided Swansea to promotion from League Two during his nigh-on three years there and leading Millwall up to the Championship from League One, before keeping them there for three consecutive seasons and taking the Lions to the semi-finals of the FA Cup in this season just past. After six years at the helm, Jackett stepped aside from his role having decided it was time for a new challenge and he'll surely feel confident that going down a division is only temporary. He's inherited a club in the depths of despair, but one with a huge amount of potential to bounce back.

The wage bill will need to be cut, young players will most likely get a chance to impress and Jackett will be out to sign a smattering of experienced players at bargain prices. It's a new beginning for Wolves in humbler surroundings than they've been used to, but other big clubs have suffered a similar fate and yet still managed to come back stronger for it.

The new head coach, as he's been termed, will be the steady hand that's required to put the ship back on course and get Wolves up to the Championship sooner rather than later. His experience in the division above has largely been limited to keeping Millwall out of the relegation scrap while working within a very tight budget. The 51-year-old will have to weave his magic wand again at Molineux to produce a team capable of promotion, as money to spend on additions to the squad will be scarce.

He may not be the most glamorous of appointments, but the former Watford man has the skills, knowledge and know-how to kick this Wolves side into gear - promotion will be his one and only target come the new campaign.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Neymar new number one at Barca

By David Lee Wheatley

Barcelona show clear intent with spectacular signing

Brazilian superstar striker Neymar will officially be unveiled by FC Barcelona as their first marquee signing of the summer on Monday, once the international matches of this week are over with.

Speculation has surrounded the future of the 21-year-old for the last couple of years at least, with top European sides such as Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City all strongly linked to the skilful forward.

Finally, Barcelona are the club to have made the leap to ensure that the Santos star will turn out for the Blaugrana next season in an obvious attempt to put the Catalonian giants back to the top of European football, having endured a thrashing over two legs at the hands of eventual Champions League winners Bayern Munich in the tournament's semi-finals.

The reported €72m transfer fee is a huge amount for Barça to splash out on a player who is yet to play in European club football before now, but the Samba star's undoubted ability puts him at the top of the most people's list as the next worldwide football phenomenon.

Barcelona need to boost their forward line with the disappointing form of David Villa and Alexis Sanchez giving Tito Vilanova great cause for concern. Finding the antidote to that problem was always going to be a major priority at Camp Nou this summer and the club acted quickly to ward off opposition for Neymar's signature.

The young striker's record of slightly better than a goal every two games in Santos colours shows his pedigree, alongside 20 goals in 32 appearances for the full Brazil national team. Neymar has been closely watched in Europe while growing up through the various age groups of the Brazilian international sides and showed his great potential in Britain when performing successfully for his country at the 2012 Olympic Games, Brazil ending as runners-up in the competition.

Barcelona supporters will hope Neymar can at least match the feats of fellow Brazilian Ronaldinho, who spent five massively productive years in Spain helping Barça to largely dominate La Liga and the Champions League. Having bided his time to cross the Atlantic, it's 99 per cent certain that the new kid on the block will take to his new surroundings like a duck to water and provide the fans with many moments of magic for them to revel in.

Having seen off Real Madrid in La Liga this campaign, but failing to look as impressive in Europe, the Catalan club have sent out a clear statement to their rivals that they mean business next season with the signing of the most sought-after young footballer around.

Expect fireworks at the home of FC Barcelona come the new season!

Twitter: @davewh1980

Hughes signs in with Stoke

By David Lee Wheatley

New era at the Britannia

Former Wales manager Mark Hughes was today revealed as the new manager of Stoke City on a 3-year contract, just six months after parting ways with QPR.

The news has been met with a mixed reaction from fans after long-serving boss Tony Pulis vacated the position last week following seven years at the helm. Pulis has consistently kept Stoke out of the relegation firing line since the club gained promotion to the Premier League in 2008 and some Potters fans fear that the appointment of Hughes will waste the years of good work laid down by fellow Welshman Pulis.

The assumption of some that Hughes will lead Stoke into trouble is solely based on his ill-fated spell at Queens Park Rangers. Having taken Wales to the brink of Euro 2004 qualification, the ex-Manchester United striker delved into the world of club management with Blackburn Rovers and he took the Ewood Park outfit to three top-ten finishes out of the four seasons he presided over.

His team had a poor disciplinary record and that rough-and-tumble approach was a huge part of his tactical masterplan to allow Rovers to compete within the top half of the league, though they often produced some decent football during his tenure. His successful time in charge of Blackburn opened the door for a move to ambitious club Manchester City, where Hughes spent 18 months before new owners gave him his marching orders.

Hughes bounced back a few months later at Craven Cottage with Fulham and his solitary season at the west London club resulted in an 8th-place finish and a spot in the Europa League via the Fair Play league, showing that the he'd learned enough in management to allow his side to be competitive without resorting to underhand tactics.

Fulham owner Al-Fayed wanted him to stay on, but Hughes said his ambition was forcing his hand in leaving his role with the Cottagers and he handed in his resignation before seeking a new position.

There were widespread rumours of interest in his services from both Aston Villa and Chelsea, but nothing materialised and six months on he somewhat surprisingly pitched up at QPR. Despite the rich ownership of the club, the R's were in serious relegation strife and Hughes kept them up, as was his brief.

During his first summer with Rangers, Hughes spent money on a wide variety of new signings and they failed to gel spectacularly. Having gone 12 league matches without victory, Sparky was released from his duties and replaced by Harry Redknapp, who could not save the club from relegation.

Apart from that spell at Loftus Road, Hughes has a decent overall record in management and has gone from encouraging a rather rough approach at Blackburn to a more stylish brand of football with the likes of Manchester City and Fulham. His record in the transfer market was decent with Rovers and Fulham, but some of his signings at City and especially QPR were questionable at best.

However, if he gets Stoke playing a nicer version of football and pushes them on to a top half position in the Premier League, then few fans will be unhappy at his presence at the helm.

The key to success at the Britannia Stadium will be to allow the players to express themselves more freely, while still retaining that hard edge that Stoke have displayed under Tony Pulis for many years. He will also have to hold on to star players such as Shawcross and build a team around them with astute buys, something he hasn't always been able to do everywhere he has been.

There's no doubting the uncertain nature of this period in the Potteries, as with a new manager invariably comes a new identity for the team and they will be a club under construction for a while before Hughes can finally say he's put his own stamp on the way he wants the team to look and perform.

If the new man can repeat previous feats with Blackburn and Fulham, then all doubts will be quickly dispelled amongst supporters and observers alike.

Twitter: @davewh1980

New role for 'The Interim One'

By David Lee Wheatley

Benitez nabs Napoli job

Serie A runners-up Napoli this week snapped up Rafa Benitez as their new head coach on a two-year deal after the loss of Walter Mazzarri to Inter.

Fresh from plundering the UEFA Europa League trophy to add to an already impressive collection, Benitez has decided to step from the frying pan into the fire with Napoli after his rather uncomfortable alliance with Chelsea came to an end.

The fans in Naples will be a lot more welcoming to begin with than the Stamford Bridge faithful ever were, but they’ll surely turn against their new man quickly if this season’s achievements aren’t at least matched in the next campaign under the Spaniard.

Having finished the 2012-13 league campaign 9 points adrift of champions Juventus, the Neapolitan support will be determined to see their side push Juve even harder next season. They will also expect some success in the Champions League, at least a quarter-final spot, especially with a former Champions League-winning coach now on board.

The former Liverpool and Valencia boss made it clear he was only interested in taking on a role with a Champions League competitor, whether in England (his preferred choice) or in continental Europe. The only clubs that were believed to hold an interest in him within the English game included the likes of Everton, Stoke City and Newcastle United, none of whom would have been able to offer the kind of challenge he was looking out for.

Therefore, that’s led Benitez to put his neck on the block once more in Italy after a frustrating six months at Inter during the 2010-11 season. Having conquered La Liga twice with Valencia and after putting Liverpool back at the top of Europe in 2005, the 53-year-old apparantly believes his destiny lies in gaining success in Italian football to prove any doubters in that football-mad country wrong.

It was mooted that illustrious clubs such as Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain may look to Benitez to become their new coach, but that never quite materialised. The move to Napoli to work in an environment where fan pressure is enormous will be a big challenge for Rafa and there’s no doubting he'll have to deliver a winning team in double-quick time on his arrival.

His most pressing task will be to convince forward Edinson Cavani and midfielder Marek Hamsik to stay in Naples. The two are the star turns of a wickedly effective Napoli side and will be crucial to Benitez’s hopes of landing Lo Scudetto and doing well in European competition.

 

Should the new coach keep hold of his prize assets and add to the side with two or three quality acquisitions, then Napoli could be a real contender for the title. The Spanish tactician certainly has the pedigree to suggest he can lead to Napoli to trophies and he'll hope that with the president’s backing he can give his new club that extra push required to reach the top of the tree domestically, while putting up a good showing in the Champions League to boot.

 

Twitter: @davewh1980

   

The Count of Monte Carlo

By David Lee Wheatley

Monaco set for influx of stars

Having regained Ligue 1 status after two years away from the top tier of French football, Monaco have set about challenging Paris Saint-Germain for top-flight supremacy with vigour since the end of the domestic season.

Following on from the splashing of £60m on Porto duo James Rodriguez and Joao Moutinho last week, the Monegasques are strongly rumoured to have Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao, 27, and Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes, 31, lined up for medicals early this week ahead of possible transfers.

It’s expected that Colombian forward Falcao will cost them in the region of £51m, while Spain international Valdes will set them back around £8m with only one year remaining on his Camp Nou contract.

Thanks to Monaco’s tax haven status and their billionaire Russian owner Dmitry Evgenevich Rybolovlev, it’s now possible for Les Rouge et Blanc to compete with the top European names in their quest to sign the best players money can buy.

This may extend to the signing of Real Madrid left wing-back Fabio Coentrao, who recently confirmed his intention to leave the Castilian club at the end of this campaign. Monaco may face competition from Chelsea should Jose Mourinho make his expected return to Stamford Bridge; the Portuguese tactician is a big admirer of Coentrao and would see his 25-year-old compatriot as a natural successor to Ashley Cole on the left-hand side of defence.

The footballing project at Stade Louis II is obviously one that excites a number of players, along with the obviously financial and lifestyle benefits of living in Monte Carlo. The glamorous heart of the principality attracts many rich people to its shores and footballers on massive salaries are not alone in their desire to sample the delights of living in such a picturesque and interesting destination.

With the financial backing of their owner, Monaco are set for another rollercoaster ride into the unknown, a journey that brought them seven league titles between 1961-2000, five Coupe de France triumphs (the last coming in 1991) and a Champions League final appearance in 2004, albeit a losing one.

The gauntlet has been firmly laid down by PSG and Rybolovlev has taken it upon himself, with the full backing of ASM’s biggest fan Prince Albert II, to take on the task of overhauling the Parisians in the race for Le Championnat next season.

 

Who would bet against them?

 

Twitter: @davewh1980

Palace promoted back to big-time

By David Lee Wheatley

Bonanza beckons for play-off victors

Veteran striker Kevin Phillips was the hero once more in the Championship play-off final this Bank Holiday afternoon, as his extra-time penalty guaranteed Crystal Palace a spot in the Premier League next season.

It's been eight long years since the south London club last graced the top-flight and thanks to a hard-fought victory over Watford at Wembley today they'll get the chance to do it all over again.

'Super Kev' stepped up amidst the highest possible level of pressure to thrash the ball high into the top-left corner of the net to give Almunia no chance between the sticks. Phillips first break in professional football came at Watford and what a story it is for him to come back at the tail-end of his career to end his former club's hopes of play-off glory.

New Manchester United recruit Wilfried Zaha was a constant menace to the Watford defence and it was his jinking on the ball that encouraged a rash foul from experienced defender Marco Cassetti. His ill-judged tackle brought about the penalty from which Phillips nudged Palace in front.

Watford played some splendid football during the regular season under manager Gianfranco Zola, their stylish brand of play taking them to the brink of automatic promotion. Having missed out by the skin of their teeth on the final day of the season to rivals Hull City, Zola had a job on his hands to lift his men. He did the trick in leading his side beyond Leicester City in the play-off semis before facing up to the final against a strong Palace outfit.

Tactics played a large part in Palace keeping their opponents quiet for most of the contest and manager Ian Holloway drilled a disciplined outlook into his charges, which meant they didn't allow a normally fluid Watford side to find gaps in their defence.

On one crucial occasion the Hornets got clean through in extra-time at one-nil down, however Palace spectacularly cleared off the line from a curling effort by Forestieri.

Crystal Palace now step up to the promised land of the Premier League with the financial and footballing rewards that brings with it, while Watford face an uncertain future with likely changes in the loan system in the Championship causing problems for them in terms of holding on to their star players.

Ian Holloway will hope to use the top-flight knowledge he gained from his Blackpool days to make sure he keeps his current club up next campaign. For now, it's time to bask in the glory of promotion before dealing with the transfer market during what is sure to be an extremely busy summer at Selhurst Park.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Bayern: Champions of Europe

By David Lee Wheatley

Munich edge all-German final

Bayern Munich erased painful memories of last year's Champions League final loss to Chelsea by overcoming their German compatriots Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on Saturday evening.

Dortmund started quickly in the first 20 minutes of the match in front of a 90,000 capacity crowd in London and it seemed firm favourites Bayern would be in for a tough night. Borussia were quicker to every loose ball and moved the ball decisively when going forward. Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer kept his side in the match on a couple of occasions during the opening exchanges as the swarm of yellow shirts threatened to engulf their more illustrious opponents.

Bayern did find some form as the half went on, with winger Arjen Robben repeatedly causing the Dortmund defence concern. The Dutch wizard was twice denied by the onrushing Roman Weidenfeller in the Borussia goal; only his quick thinking to close Robben down saved his side from going behind.

At 0-0 when the half-time whistle sounded, it was all to play for and few could have confidently predicted the outcome of the match. The atmosphere from both sets of fans was deafening and there burgeoned a feeling that a special second period was in store for all in attendance.

And so it proved, when after 60 minutes Bayern took the lead through star striker Mandzukic from a fantastic cut-back from the left-hand edge of the box by Robben after he'd beaten the offside trap. The lead only lasted 7 minutes, though, as defender Dante raised his foot and planted it into the midrift of Marco Reus inside the penalty area. It was a penalty all day long despite Dante's apparent refusal to accept the fact and it handed Dortmund a huge opportunity to draw the scores level. The referee made a great decision in giving the penalty, but seemed to shirk the responsibility he surely held to hand Dante what would've been his second yellow card of the game. There's no doubt that the Italian official ducked out of sending the Brazilian centre-back off the field and Jurgen Klopp's men can feel aggrieved at the lack of severity shown in the overall decision.

There was no time for Gundogan to worry about it as he faced up to the prospect of beating Neuer from 12 yards. He was coolness personified as he stroked the ball into the bottom right-hand corner of the net, sending the Bayern keeper the wrong way.

Dortmund gained a boost from their leveller and the contest was finely poised as the teams entered the final stages. It appeared that only a moment of magic would seal the game without the need for extra-time and it was Arjen Robben that duly provided it. With just over a minute of normal time remaining, Robben took Franck Ribery's flick in his stride and slotted the ball wide of the stranded Borussia goalkeeper Weidenfeller, who could do nothing to adjust his body in time to stop the shot.

There was no time left for the crushed Dortmund players to come back at their Bavarian opponents and the final whistle saw scenes of joy for the men in red, while their foes fell to their knees in despair.

With the Champions League trophy in the bag to add to the Bundesliga shield, Bayern now advance to the German Cup final next week against Stuttgart in search of an astounding treble. Defeat there would do little to sour the fantastic season that Jupp Heynckes' boys have experienced, but what a fine way it would be to round off the most incredible of campaigns with the domestic cup to parade alongside the two pieces of silverware already safely tucked away in the pockets of their Lederhosen!

Head coach Heynckes leaves his job this summer in the knowledge that he can bow out at the very top of the sport, but also that his Bayern team finally got what they deserved after the huge disappointment suffered last May.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Beckham leaves the stage

By David Lee Wheatley

Retirement beckons for Becks

Most-capped England outfield player in history David Beckham today announced his impending retirement from professional football at the age of 38.

The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder feels the time is right to step aside from a playing career that has spanned 20 years at the very top. Capped 115 times by his country, Becks will be forever held in the highest regard by England supporters and football fans around the world for his contribution to the game he adores.

Starting out as a youngster at Manchester United, the club he followed throughout his childhood, was a dream come true and he made a huge impact for the Old Trafford-based outfit during his ten years in the first-team set-up. Beckham captured numerous titles including the Premier League six times and the 1999 Champions League after that breathless victory over Bayern Munich. It was his corner that got flicked on for Solskjaer to score the late winner that handed triumphant manager Alex Ferguson his first European Cup triumph.

The star scored one of his most memorable goals in a United shirt in 1996 when he flighted an audacious attempt from the halfway line which sailed over the helpless Wimbledon goalkeeper into the net. Arms aloft, the stylish midfielder took the acclaim while announcing his true potential to the football world.

His England international career began in 1996 and by '98 he was one of the mainstays of Glenn Hoddle's side. Unfortunately, he lost his head in a clash with Argentina at the World Cup that year, resulting in a sending-off for the dejected Beckham and a devastating dumping out of the tournament for his team.

After his kick out at Diego Simeone which caused the red card, Becks endured at least a year of abuse from boo-boys at Premier League stadiums up and down the country. It was a dark time for the precocious playmaker and some doubted his ability to get back on track at international level. That all turned around in astounding fashion when Beckham captained England to qualification for the 2002 World Cup under Sven-Goran Eriksson, his free-kick equaliser against Greece in the deciding qualifier sending English fans into delirium and sealing the country's spot at the tournament in Japan/South Korea. Afterwards, 'Golden Balls' as he was christened, could do no wrong!

His spectacular falling out with Ferguson, which followed a flying boot in his direction from his boss and a nasty cut above the eye to show for it, was a massive low-point in the career of David Beckham and many observers feel he could have achieved a great deal more had he stayed on. However, the writing was on the wall after that dressing room spat with Fergie and he duly moved on to Real Madrid in 2003.

He joined up toward the latter part of the 'Galacticos' era and it took time for the team of superstars to grab the title back from a resurgent Barcelona, led by a 'Galactico' of their own in the shape of Brazilian magician Ronaldinho. They finally did it in 2007, Beckham's final year at the Bernabeu, despite a sticky first half of the campaign which saw the England captain frozen out by head coach Fabio Capello. Despite repeated claims that Beckham wasn't required, the Italian eventually had to turn to him in a desperate attempt to claw back superiority in La Liga. Ever the professional, Beckham had kept himself sharp despite the lack of playing time and he came roaring quickly back to form to drag Real to the Spanish championship.

Still in his prime, he made the extraordinary decision to join MLS side Los Angeles Galaxy, leaving suitors from all over Europe deeply disappointed. He spent two loan spells with Milan in 2009 and 2010 during the American off-season, but his main attention was on the Galaxy and he managed to win two back-to-back titles to end his time in California in great style.

One last European adventure beckoned when PSG made him a contract offer of five months from January of this year. True of the gentleman that he is, Beckham pledged his full salary to a local children's hospital in Paris in a bid to give something special back, a trait he's displayed throughout much of his time in the public spotlight. On the field, the Englishman got the opportunity to play in the UEFA Champions League again, as he assisted the French side in their run to the quarter-finals. The Parisians followed that up by clinching the Ligue 1 championship with time to spare, meaning Beckham has now lifted the top-flight league title in four separate countries.

With just two matches to go in the season, perhaps the greatest crosser of a football we've ever seen decided to call it a day. The final competitive fixture of his dazzling career will take place on May 26th at Lorient and he will be sorely missed from the game that has given him so much, but that he has also given so much to in return.

His playing career has taken an almost fantasistical path, what with winning trophies for his boyhood team, moving to one of the biggest clubs in the universe Real Madrid, then featuring for giants like Milan and PSG, not to mention captaining his country and taking part in three World Cups. A great ambassador for the sport, Beckham will surely be part of the fabric of football for years to come.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Big changes needed at Sunderland

By David Lee Wheatley

Di Canio ready for clear-out

Sunderland are ready to reconstruct their side in the wake of securing their Premier League status by the skin of their teeth this week.

Paolo Di Canio has warned any of his current players who fail to pick up what he wants from them in training will be on the way out, with the promise of at least half a dozen new faces coming to the club during the summer window.

Despite spending millions of owner Ellis Short's money, managers such as Roy Keane, Steve Bruce and Martin O'Neill have all failed to fully awaken the sleeping giant of north-east football and Di Canio believes he is the man to finally buck the trend.

There are far too many players at the club who have ability but fail to produce their best form on a consistent basis, while Di Canio has rightly pointed to the lack of leadership and physicality within the squad he inherited on 31st March. The Italian managed to give the players enough of a lift to get famous victories away at Newcastle and home to Everton, but it was back to the drudgery of his predecessor's reign soon afterwards with an embarrassing thrashing at the hands of Aston Villa.

Wigan were the only side still capable of catching Sunderland at the start of the week, but they had to beat Champions League chasers Arsenal in the Gunners' backyard on Tuesday to have any hope. It became too much to ask as the surprise FA Cup winners lost 4-1 to seal their relegation fate. It was lucky for the Black Cats that Roberto Martinez's men ran out of steam in the second half at the Emirates and now lessons must be learned at the Stadium of Light to avoid another relegation dogfight next season.

Those players that have the stomach for the fight and ability to handle great expectations from the fans need to be identified and kept at the club, while those that don't must be weeded out. Several positions in the squad have little or no competition for places and therefore new signings are required to create such battles for spots in the starting line-up.

An attacking style of play needs to be introduced as quickly as possibly to sweep away memories of the boredom that had set in amongst supporters due to the poor fayre on view in recent campaigns. Not since the heady days of Reid, Quinn and Phillips has a constant stream of exciting football been served up and that splendid period ended abruptly over a decade ago.

It's about time that people are able to look forward to watching their team each week again and the passionate Paolo Di Canio promises much with the comments he's been making since his arrival. Sunderland fans will be desperately hoping that the self-confident head coach can bring back the magic that's been missing from the Stadium of Light for so long.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Chelsea v Benfica - Europa League preview

By David Lee Wheatley

Blues aim for another European trophy

Chelsea meet Benfica in Amsterdam this evening determined to win a major European competition for the second year on the trot.

Granted, it's not on a level with the Champions League trophy they captured last May, but it would still represent a decent campaign for the Stamford Bridge outfit after the initial furore surrounding the arrival of Rafa Benitez in November.

Having beaten their Portuguese rivals in the quarter-finals of the Champions League last season under the tutelage of Roberto Di Matteo, Chelsea will feel confident of a repeat in the Amsterdam ArenA tonight.

Benitez has injury concerns, though, with John Terry and John Obi Mikel both doubts. Eden Hazard, meanwhile, has flourished in recent weeks but misses out due to a pulled hamstring suffered last Saturday in the win over Villa. The west Londoners still have a plethora of talent to choose from and will see the challenge of Benfica as no more difficult than many of their recent tests in the Premier League.

As for Benfica, they miss suspended right-back Maxi Pereira, but are expected to be at full strength otherwise.

The Eagles lost 2-1 away to FC Porto in the penultimate game of the Portuguese Liga, their first defeat of the league campaign. It was a painful result to take, as Porto leapfrogged Benfica into top spot while ending their unbeaten run with a comeback victory. It may play on the minds of the Benfica players and take away their edge somewhat in the final this evening.

Chelsea have been in good form recently, culminating in their guaranteed top-four status in the Premier League and qualification for next season's Champions League. They go into the final as slight favourites and the players will surely be disappointed should they come away with runners-up medals around their necks at the end of the contest.


Twitter: @davewh1980

Where next for Manco?

By David Lee Wheatley

Roberto won't be short of offers

Manchester City finally put their beleaguered boss Roberto Mancini out of his misery by sacking him only 12 months after he took them to the Premier League pinnacle.

Having today left the Central London hotel that he’d been sharing with his players since just before Saturday’s FA Cup final, the Italian walks free from his City responsibilities with a massive pay-off in his back pocket and the promise of several job offers set to flood in over the coming days and weeks.

The reports of dressing room unrest at the Etihad and a lack of communication between Mancini and his players won’t put off potential suitors, with his CV outshining many other managers on the market.

Already newly-promoted Monaco, led by Claudio Ranieri, have been strongly-linked with an interest in replacing their experienced head coach with his younger compatriot. There’s also the possibility of a return to Inter, where current incumbent Andrea Stramaccioni has endured an awful first season in charge of the Nerazzuri.

As for staying in England, the Everton and Chelsea jobs are up for grabs; however it’s almost certain that Mourinho will return to Stamford Bridge. Of course, Everton are unlikely to be able to offer Mancini the funds or wages that he’d find attractive and therefore I don’t expect to see him pitching up at Goodison Park anytime soon.

Looking further afield again, Real Madrid have reportedly approached PSG over the services of Carlo Ancelotti, an offer which was turned down immediately by the cash-rich owners of the new French league champions.

Despite failing in their attempts, it appears a clear signal that Real are resigned to losing José Mourinho this summer and are actively seeking a replacement as the current season draws to a close. Could Real view Mancini as a candidate for the job should Mourinho confirm his return to London?

There’s also the possibility of the departing City boss doing a job swap with Malaga boss Manuel Pellegrini, but once again, the financial constraints at the Andalucian club could rule out a possible switch.

Meanwhile in the Bundesliga, it was announced today that Gelsenkirchen club Schalke have just handed caretaker manager Jens Keller a two-year deal after he salvaged their season by putting them on the brink of Champions League qualification, meaning that sought-after position is no longer an option.

Wherever Mancini ends up, he’ll take a hugely impressive record, but also plenty of baggage in the form of two painful sackings from Inter and Manchester City after he’d led both clubs to the domestic success they’d been previously starved of for so many years.

Once this is for sure, he won’t be out of work for long.

 

Twitter: @davewh1980

Chelsea clinch Champions League spot

By David Lee Wheatley

Lampard writes name in history books

Frank Lampard became Chelsea's all-time top scorer with a double at Villa Park this afternoon.

Rafa Benitez led his side to a comeback victory against an in-form Villa team after initially falling behind to Benteke's first-half opener.

Things looked bleak for the Blues when Ramires got his marching orders later in the first half for a high tackle that resulted in a second yellow card.

David Luiz was introduced at half-time and the visitors started getting a foothold in the game from then on and they were visibly lifted when Benteke joined Ramires in the red card club with a high challenge of his own.

Up stepped the extraordinary Lampard, when a ball across the box was treated with disdain by the left foot of the England midfielder to make it 1-1.

Villa pushed to get back in front, but Chelsea held firm before striking a late winner. A fine one-two between Hazard and Cole climaxed with a fantastic finish from the on-rushing Lampard from Hazard's cross. That was goal number 203 of his Chelsea career, finally beating Bobby Tambling's record.

That two-goal salvo also means that Lampard has reached double figures on the score-charts in each of the last ten seasons; unbelievable for a midfield player.

With a far superior goal difference, Chelsea realistically can't be caught by Spurs now, so 4th place would be the worst case scenario. Therefore, the Champions League for next season is all but guaranteed as they look ahead to the Europa League final in Amsterdam on Wednesday.

Beat Benfica and it's mission accomplished for Rafa Benitez, despite the furore surrounding his appointment at the club.

And, for Frank Lampard, it's a timely reminder to the board that he's worth another year at least. What a player!

Twitter: @davewh1980

Mancini on the brink

By David Lee Wheatley

City look to Pellegrini

On the eve of the FA Cup final, Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is under severe pressure to keep his job as reports from Spain insist that Manuel Pellegrini has informed Malaga's players that he's off to the Etihad this summer.

Relegation-threatened Wigan Athletic stand between Mancini and his second FA Cup victory in the last 3 years, but he may be out of a job even if his team overcome Roberto Martinez's men.

It's a sad indictment of football today that the Italian is set for the sack after leading City to the league title last season, plus an FA Cup win the year before. With money comes expectation; evidently Mancini has fallen short in that respect in the eyes of the mega-rich owners of the club.

Successive failures in the Champions League first caused the wheels of change to start turning at City and missing out on the Premier League title this campaign seems to have pushed the owners into action.

Over in Andalucia, Manuel Pellegrini has led Malaga to the last-eight of the Champions League despite being forced to sell some star players to help pay off massive debts. He's also got his team to sixth place in La Liga on the shoestring budget he now has to operate with.

Last season, he got Malaga into the top four when backed to the hilt in the transfer market, but his managerial skills have been put to the test this campaign with the club struggling to keep its head above water financially.

The Chilean has obviously done enough to impress the powers-that-be at the Etihad Stadium and it appears the former Real Madrid, Villarreal and River Plate boss will be the manager tasked with taking City to Champions League glory.

The speculation massively overshadows the big day at Wembley for Mancini, with the media talking about the Italian's future rather than the game. It's unlikely to affect the players too much, but Mancini will be bombarded with questions about Pellegrini and it could take the edge off the showpiece final for him and perhaps the City fans, who still support their current manager.

If, as expected, the move for Pellegrini comes to fruition, it'll be another unwarranted sacking in the Premier League to add to the list. True, they'll be gaining a fantastic new manager, but City's blinkered owners will be getting rid of a top boss at the same time.

The people at the top would do well to speak to the fans and hear their stories of League One football and a yo-yo existence that preceeded the Middle Eastern cash injection.

The club have come a long way in a short period of time, thanks in no small part to Roberto Mancini, and perhaps the current incumbent of the manager's hot-seat should be allowed to continue his quest for more trophy success in the future.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Everton job: The runners and riders

By David Lee Wheatley

Who's in line for Goodison post?

With the end of season departure of David Moyes imminent, I look at who might be in the frame to replace him at Everton.

Neil Lennon (Celtic manager)
The fiery Northern Irishman presided over a Scottish Premier League title win and a fine run to the last-16 of the Champions League this season. Does he have the requisite experience for the post after only a relatively short time at the helm at Celtic Park? A recent run of bets has placed him as the bookies' favourite.

Roberto Martinez (Wigan manager)
A man who likes his teams to play open, attacking football, as he's shown at Wigan and Swansea before that. He's helped keep Wigan in the top-flight with last-gasp survival bids in the past and needs a minor miracle to keep them in the Premier League this campaign. However, that hasn't affected his status as one of the most highly-rated managers in the British game. He has led Wigan to this Saturday's FA Cup final and therefore they'll be in the Europa League next season, come what may.

Michael Laudrup (Swansea manager)
The Great Dane led Swansea to the Capital One Cup trophy in February and will be keen to take City into Europe next time around. Looking good for a top-half finish in the league, the Swans have confounded the doubters and Laudrup has been credited with having much to do with the steady rise of the Welsh club. The former Brondby boss has significant experience in Spain and Russia as a manager, but may feel the timing isn't right for a move at the moment.

Steve Clarke (West Brom manager)
Long-time assistant coach Clarke stepped up to the top job at The Hawthorns last summer and made an immediate impact with his personable approach to the media and tactical nous with his team putting Clarke amongst the most sought-after young managers in the English game. Formerly coach at Liverpool, Clarke would undoubtedly jump at the chance of a return to Merseyside with the Toffees.

Malky Mackay (Cardiff manager)
Having steadied an uneasy ship at Watford, the big Scot stepped on to south Wales, putting together a tidy squad that reached promotion as Championship winners this season. His ability to finally take Cardiff up, after many failed attempts under previous managers, won't have gone unnoticed in the corridors of power at several big clubs across Britain. If approached, it'd be interesting to see if Mackay would prefer to lead Cardiff in their first tilt at the Premier League or take on the challenge at Goodison Park.

Martin O'Neill (unattached)
Without doubt, O'Neill's 15-month stint at Sunderland has put a black mark on his CV. The dour football produced this season up to his sacking was awful to watch and had some questioning if the dog has had his day. However, his record at Wycombe, Leicester, Celtic and Villa stands up against the best around and it wasn't too long ago that O'Neill was being linked with the top jobs across the country. If Everton want an experienced hand and should they feel he still has the motivation to succeed, then the genial Northern Irishman could get the nod.

My verdict: Roberto Martinez

Twitter: @davewh1980

Moyes: The problems

By David Lee Wheatley

What Moyes faces this summer

The official announcement today that David Moyes is to take over the Manchester United managerial role from July 1st gives the current Everton boss the opportunity to take on one of the greatest jobs in world football.

On the face of it, it seems an appointment that will stabilise the club right off the bat, after the shock of Fergie's retirement stops reverberating around Old Trafford.

The younger Scot has managed Everton with great distinction and, to many observers, deserves the chance to manage the top club in the land.

Moyes will cut a determined figure when he arrives in Manchester this summer and he'll know Ferguson will be around should he need any assistance. It all seems set up for many more years of success for the new man at the helm, but what problems will he face during the first few weeks and months in his new job?

Firstly, he's going to have to win over the throngs of United fans with results and stylish football. He needs to prove that he's capable of getting the best out of the players and of competing at the very top of both domestic and European football.

If results go his way early on, the fans will be onside. However, there's always going to be the pressure to win trophies and Moyes must deliver year-in, year-out.

Dealing with the likely retirements over the next couple of years of players such as Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand will be a test of Moyes' ability to renew the squad in the same vein as his predecessor. He must buy well in the transfer market, while keeping a keen eye on the youth sides in a bid to promote from within if any youngsters show sufficient potential. It's a balancing act that Ferguson successfully managed throughout his time in charge and the new man must replicate that tried-and-trusted model.

Another issue that will arise will be Wayne Rooney's apparent desire to seek pastures new. It's been widely reported that the striker handed in a second transfer request within the last 3 years just recently and Moyes will have to handle the situation delicately. If he feels Rooney should leave, then he will have to sign a marquee player to replace him. If he stays, the manager will have to coax great performances out of a player currently unhappy at Old Trafford. It's a conundrum that will need to be resolved before the start of next season.

The aura that Ferguson has around him is often credited with helping the outgoing boss attract some of the best players around to join up with him. Manchester United Football Club is a massive pull to any prospective new signing in itself, but Fergie was often able to persuade a player that his future lay with United just with his words.

Can David Moyes hold court in the same fashion? He's had to deal in the next rung down of the transfer market up to this point, compared with the options open to United. He will now have the chance to bring some of the stars of world football to his new club and it'll be a test of his man-management and communication skills to see if he can keep the conveyor belt of top players coming to Manchester.

Gaining the respect of the current squad will be extremely important and Moyes will need the likes of Giggs to give him help in that matter. As long as the established stars listen to him, the rest will follow. If Moyes can establish a bond with the older players, that will filter through to the younger lads and help foster a harmonious camp.

David Moyes knows how to manage a top football club; he's been doing it for 11 years at Everton. The Red Devils are the biggest club in England and the world, so it is a step up and into massive shoes to fill. However, I believe the former Preston boss is ready for that next step and will address most issues with aplomb.

It's imperative he gets off to a decent start in his first season; if he does well early on, the momentum will build and the possible problems hanging in the air will dissipate quickly.

It's a great opportunity and one that no football manager would pass up.

Only time will tell if Moyes has all the capabilities to continue the success presided over by Alex Ferguson for so many years.

I'll bet that he has.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Fergie shocker

By David Lee Wheatley

United boss to retire

Out of nowhere, Manchester United's hugely successful manager Alex Ferguson has decided to call time on his career aged 71.

The Scot will officially take off into the sunset at the end of the season after 26 years remarkable years at the Old Trafford helm.

Ferguson has most notably presided over 13 Premier League title wins and 2 Champions League final victories since his move to United from Aberdeen in 1987.

He's led and battled against some of the greatest players and managers the world has ever seen and in many cases been successful in winning against such illustrious opposition.

The hugely experienced campaigner has dismissed many a challenge from a hungry set of younger counterparts in the football arena, but lent an ear to those seeking his advice away from the match-day pressure cooker.

The infamous side that won the title in the face of stinging criticism from one-time Liverpool captain and still Match of the Day TV pundit Alan Hansen will live long in the memory. The likes of Butt, Beckham, Scholes took apart their more well-known opponents in winning the league championship after Hansen famously remarked 'you'll never win anything with kids'.

It is Ferguson's constant ability to renew and refresh his squad, whether with star signings or players from the youth team, that kept him and his club at the top for so long.

Now, it's up to a new man to take on the mantle and continue the glory days for the red half of Manchester.

It'll be an extremely hard act to follow.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Big Barça clear-out

By David Lee Wheatley

Who's heading for the exit door?

Just two points away from mathematically guaranteeing the title in La Liga, Barcelona will be looking to the summer already trying to figure out a strategy that'll allow them to regain their European superiority.

There's question marks surrounding the head coach Tito Vilanova's future in the role, while many 'star' players are said to be on the chopping block.

There have been far too many players that have under-performed this campaign, particularly in the Champions League, and it's unlikely Barça will be willing to rely on many of them for 2013/14.

David Villa, formerly the star striker in the Blaugrana ranks, has struggled to find form following serious injury and he appears most likely to be on his way out. Villa used to be relied upon to score the goals when Messi wasn't or indeed to supplement the little Argentine's exploits, but he's lost that scoring touch while also he seems to have dropped a yard of pace.

Eric Abidal, inspirational for his comeback from a liver transplant, could be set for a move back to France, with Barça looking at other possibilities at left-back.

Alexis Sanchez, signed for a lot of money from Serie A, is a much-maligned figure at Camp Nou these days and his poor performances have led to large-scale criticism from the fans. It's highly likely that the Catalan club will cut it's losses and let the Chilean move on.

Fabrègas has seen the full spectrum from glorious love on his arrival to deep-rooted disdain from the fans since his return to Barcelona from Arsenal. Successful initially, Cesc has seen his stock fall dramatically, with a lot members blaming him for many of the team's problems this season. It's been a harsh reality for the midfielder to face up to after finally making his homecoming to the club he loves. Speculation is rife that a move back to London could be in the offing soon.

It's sure to be a summer of upheaval for the Spanish league leaders and don't be surprised to see changes at the very top of the coaching hierarchy, as well as within the playing roster.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Championship play-offs

By David Lee Wheatley

One from four - who will hit the jackpot?

Watford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Crystal Palace and Leicester City ended the regular season in the Championship play-off positions, giving them all hope of achieving promotion to the promised land of the Premier League.

Watford had to better Hull City's result to go up automatically to the top-flight, but they unexpectedly lost 2-1 at home to Leeds United. Up at the KC Stadium, Hull grabbed a 2-2 draw that was just enough to see them grab second spot behind their opponents on the day, Cardiff City.

Gianfranco Zola's men will have to pick themselves up again as they face Leicester City, Nigel Pearson's charges having sneaked past Bolton and Forest with a 3-2 victory at the City Ground on a tense final day of the league season.

Leicester's players will be buzzing after that result at the home of their local rivals and will look to capitalise on Watford's disappointment at missing out on automatic promotion.

Watford have played some sublime football this season and have already beaten Leicester twice during the regular campaign, but the players will have refocus after their loss to Leeds and will also have to do the job without the suspended Troy Deeney. Leicester could just hold the momentum going into this tie and Zola will have his work cut out to stop it.

The other two teams in promotion contention both had a say in the fight to avoid the drop this past weekend, with Brighton executing a 3-2 win over relegated Wolves and Palace consigning Peterborough to the dreaded drop with victory by the same score.

Now, they must face-off against one another in an encounter that looks closely-matched and very tough to call.

Palace have stuttered their way to the play-offs, having looked strong contenders for the top two spots earlier in the season. But, their win over Posh will have lifted their spirits no end.

Gus Poyet has led the Seagulls to a fantastic fourth place and they're looking good going into their clash with bitter rivals Palace. The south coast side have played some wonderfully attractive football in securing a play-off shot and they appear favourites to make the final at Wembley.

Veteran striker Kevin Phillips will something to say on the matter, as the 39-year-old seeks a Palace promotion for what could be a career swansong. The one-time European Golden Boot winner was on the scoresheet at the weekend and will be determined to fire Ian Holloway's boys back to the big-time.

It's all shaping up to be an exciting end to the Championship season, as four top sides compete for elevation to the rich pickings of the Premier League.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Devaluation of the Europa League or justified increase in quality?

By David Lee Wheatley

Champions League drop-outs meet in final

Chelsea and Benfica sealed their place in the Amsterdam final of the UEFA Europa League last night by knocking out Basel and Fenerbahce respectively in two pulsating two-legged encounters.

Both sides clambered down from the top table of European football having finished third in their groups, but they’ve since rejuvenated their European campaigns by reaching the showpiece event in UEFA’s second-string competition.

It’s led to suggestions that allowing the Champions League failures to compete in the Europa League devalues the tournament and is unfair to the clubs that started out in the former UEFA Cup to begin with.

I do have some sympathy with the lesser lights that may feel the obstacles put in their way by the big boys coming to play are hindering their chances of winning a trophy. There is absolutely no doubt that seeing the likes of Chelsea, Dynamo Kiev, Zenit, Ajax and Benfica enter the competition would dishearten many of the clubs already engrossed in the Europa League.

Basel and Fener are two such clubs that started out in the Europa League groups, made it all the way to the semis, before meeting their end against former Champions League participants. It may well be that the Swiss and Turkish sides in question feel aggrieved by losing out to those opponents, when they could feel they shouldn’t have been there in the first place. My argument against that would be that whatever competition you enter, the rules are known from the outset and all clubs must abide by and respect them.

For neutrals and fans of those clubs that are granted a second chance, it most definitely increases the quality on show in the tournament; whether or not the sides from the Champions League deserve another opportunity.  It’s only possible to make the Europa League a better tournament and more competitive field by introducing the aforementioned teams. It’s led to a final that could grace the Champions League stage between two top sides; one the reigning Champions of Europe (for a little while longer at least!) and the other leaders of the Portuguese Liga.

After highly disappointing exits from the Champions League, both Chelsea and Benfica have shown great resolve and a will-to-win in forcing their way to the May 15 finale. Whoever eventually lifts the trophy will fully deserve the accolades afforded to them.


Twitter: @davewh1980

Benitez in hunt for more silverware

By David Lee Wheatley

Benitez CV set for boost

Despite howls of derision from a large proportion of Chelsea fans on Rafa Benitez’s appointment as ‘interim’ manager in November, the Blues stand on the cusp of another European trophy. Standing between them and a place in the final are Swiss side Basel, whom Chelsea beat 2-1 in the first leg at St. Jakob-Park last week.

Chelsea controlled the first encounter with a professional and compact approach, but it almost backfired due to a bout of appalling officiating allowing Basel to draw level at 1-1 with a penalty kick, before last season’s European Champions League winners struck a late winner through David Luiz.

The Stamford Bridge second leg now looks a more straightforward task for a side that dropped out of the Champions League at the group stage in a frankly poor attempt to retain the trophy. That disappointing exit was almost confirmed at the time Benitez took charge, but he has since managed to instil a level of organisation and no little confidence in his players since taking the reins.

Basel are still a threat and will give Chelsea plenty to think about as they search for a way back into the semi-final tie, with the carat of a finale against either Fenerbahce or Benfica at the Amsterdam ArenA awaiting the victors.

The likes of Philipp Degen, Stocker and Streller provided plenty of evidence of their ability in the first meeting and they’ll be looking to attack and put the home defence under as much pressure as they can. It will not go unnoticed to Benitez and his staff that Spurs fell by the wayside against the Swiss in the last round, proving beyond doubt that Chelsea have a tough task on their hands this evening.

Against all odds, the former Liverpool and Valencia boss Benitez has put his temporary charges in a great position to qualify for the 2013/14 Champions League, sitting in third a point ahead of Arsenal and three clear of Spurs.  Players such as Juan Mata, Lampard, Hazard and David Luiz have all flourished under the Spaniard’s leadership in spite of several off-field issues surrounding his arrival; it appears that Rafa will only come out of this with credit.

If he should lead Chelsea to the top four in the Premier League come the league season’s end, perhaps alongside the Europa League trophy, his already impressive CV will be updated with a highly commendable achievement to add to the Spanish League (twice), UEFA Cup, Champions League and FA Cup that he has won during a glittering coaching career to date.

He may not be completely unscathed by the experience, but Rafa’s stint in west London will have done him much more good than harm.

 

Twitter: @davewh1980 

United in the market for new blood

By David Lee Wheatley

Champions set to spend

Manchester United, fresh from securing the league title, are looking ahead to this summer determined to make a significant splash in the transfer market.

Having beaten off competition from local rivals and last year’s league winners Manchester City, Sir Alex Ferguson is now set to integrate several new signings into the squad in a bid not only to keep City at bay, but also to add fresh impetus to the club’s attempts to regain the Champions League trophy they last won in 2008.

The United manager recently made it clear that the preparations for the summer have been underway for three or four months now and there’s a list choc-full of star names being bandied around in regards to which players Ferguson may have his eye on.

Strikers appear a priority for the Scot and speculation suggests his two top targets in that position are Robert Lewandowski of Borussia Dortmund and Atlético Madrid’s Colombian forward Radamel Falcao. The Pole Lewandowski put himself prominently on the radar of top European clubs by banging four goals past Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final first leg, an effort that ultimately led to the Spanish side’s downfall in the tie. Falcao, meanwhile, has long been linked with the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea, but it’s Manchester United who’ve stolen a march on their rivals in the pursuit for the former Porto man, according to varied sources.

Crystal Palace whizz-kid Wilfried Zaha was bagged in January, though he was left to play for the Championship club until the end of the season. Great hopes rest on the shoulders of the young winger/striker and Ferguson will see the dynamic forward as a key component in the long-term future of the club.

With ageing defender Rio Ferdinand needing a little more time on the sidelines these days whilst managing his fitness levels, Ferguson may also be in the market for a top-class centre-back; a commanding presence at the back would be most welcome.

The emphasis will be on youth as Sir Alex tries to install a team capable of growing into a real force to be reckoned with for the next 5 or 10 years. He will look to the window as a chance to piece together a lasting legacy of trophy success long after he’s retired.

Alongside that, the plan will include bringing through any promising youngsters from the famed United academy that have the potential to make it to supplement any new signings that may step through the doors of Old Trafford this summer.

 

You can follow me on Twitter: @davewh1980