Manchester United hot-seat: Five in the frame

By David Lee Wheatley

David Moyes' ill-fated succession of Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager came to an abrupt end this week after ten tortuous months in charge. Following such a legendary figure into the Old Trafford hot-seat was always going to be a hugely difficult task and it proved far too much for the ex-Everton boss.

Now, with the team sitting 7th in the Premier League and appearing to be in grave danger of missing out altogether on European football next season, who is in the frame to replace the man once described as 'The Chosen One' at a club desperate to rectify the problems that have plagued them throughout the entire campaign?

The following names are the five candidates I believe to be highest on the list of possible replacements:

Louis van Gaal (Netherlands national team)

Vastly experienced 62-year-old Louis van Gaal made his intention to seek an English Premier League managerial position clear several months ago when confirming he'd leave his post with the Netherlands national side after this summer's World Cup.

Having led European greats Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich to spectacular heights, he now wishes to try his hand at a competition he admires greatly. There were strong rumours surrounding Spurs' interest in the sought-after signature of the Dutchman, but the chance to resurrect United to their former glories would almost certainly hold more appeal.

Stubborn, a renowned man-manager and firm believer in the 'Total Football' attacking style of football harnessed in his homeland, van Gaal would seem the perfect fit for a side in dire need of direction.

Major honours

League titles: 7 (3 Ajax; 2 Barcelona; 1 AZ; 1 Bayern Munich)

Domestic Cups: 3 (1 Ajax; 1 Barcelona; 1 Bayern Munich)

Champions' League: 1 (Ajax)

UEFA Cup/Europa League: 1 (Ajax)

Jurgen Klopp (Borussia Dortmund)

Highly-rated German coach Klopp has been repeatedly linked to several top jobs around Europe since leading Dortmund to successive Bundesliga titles in 2011 and 2012, also lifting the German Cup to claim the double on the second occasion.

The former Mainz player impressed many observers with those domestic achievements, but did so even further when taking his side to the Champions' League final of 2013 before losing agonisingly to compatriots Bayern at Wembley.

Entertainment is guaranteed with Klopp's notoriously effervescent displays on the touchline during matches along with his endearing media persona which has placed him near the top of the United hit-list. However, the 46-year-old recently signed an extension to his Dortmund deal until 2018, while also publicly denying any interest in leaving his current position.

Time will tell whether a concrete offer could tempt the Stuttgart-born into going back on his word in order to take over at Old Trafford.

Major honours

League titles: 2 (Borussia Dortmund)

Domestic Cups: 1 (Borussia Dortmund)

Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid)

Amiable Italian Ancelotti has a very important job to focus on currently with Real very close to a potential Champions' League final, while also still in the hunt for La Liga glory.

He's managed successfully in England previously when delivering a league and FA Cup double to Chelsea, plus the 54-year-old can also point to fantastic successes over the course of many years with European heavyweights such as Juventus, Milan and PSG prior to a dream move to the Spanish capital.

Whether he'd be willing to give up his long-awaited opportunity to coach the Madrid giants is debatable; after all, he sacrificed a planned continuation of his involvement with a wonderful project in Paris to grab the Bernabeu reins in the first place.

It's likely the only way United could prise him away from Spain is with the open encouragement and blessing of Real Madrid, as opposed to Ancelotti forcing the issue.

Major honours

League titles: 3 (1 Milan; 1 Chelsea; 1 PSG)

Domestic Cups: 3 (1 Milan; 1 Chelsea; 1 Real Madrid)

Champions' League: 2 (Milan)

Jose Mourinho (Chelsea)

Many experts suggested the Portuguese was the only man who could've comfortably filled the shoes of outgoing manager Ferguson when the job was up for grabs the last time around and certainly the role was of huge interest to the controversial tactician before his agreement to make a much-heralded return to old stomping ground Stamford Bridge last summer.

A trophy-laden managerial career thus far puts the former Porto man on a pedestal with some, but he remains a truly divisive figure. Past comments have given rise to furious speculation surrounding Mourinho's apparent desire to take on the challenge of restoring Manchester United to the top of the Premier League tree where they resided for so long under the fiery Scot who presided over nearly 27 years of unparalleled success, but it will be tricky for the self-confident Mourinho to accept the post now that he's ensconced back at the Chelsea helm.

In saying that, it would be typical of 'The Special One' to instigate a sensational U-turn on his claims of being exactly 'where he wants to be' with his beloved Blues by moving across to Manchester. He doesn't care what anybody thinks of him, or about the various repercussions that may occur from such a decision in terms of the reaction from both Chelsea and United fans, because it's all about Jose at the end of the day!

The United hierarchy declined the possibility of appointing the 51-year-old when Fergie confirmed his departure, due to his extensive baggage and unsavoury mind games which often attracts such bad publicity upon the club he represents. However, he has won everything available in club football repeatedly and that impressive roll of honour could prove tempting to any potential suitor.

It's doubtful that anyone with a say in the matter will have altered their opinion on the subject of Mourinho, though.

Major honours

League titles: 7 (2 Porto; 2 Chelsea; 2 Inter; 1 Real Madrid)

Domestic Cups: 4 (1 Porto; 1 Chelsea; 1 Inter; 1 Real Madrid)

Champions' League: 2 (1 Porto; 1 Inter)

UEFA Cup/Europa League: 1 (Porto)

Laurent Blanc (Paris Saint-Germain)

Frenchman Blanc is on the verge of sealing Le Championat in his first campaign with big-spending Paris Saint-Germain, following a slightly disappointing two-year spell in charge of the national team.

He found success in his first head coaching role with Bordeaux, as they lifted both the Coupe de la League and the French championship under his tutelage. Despite a bruising encounter with international football, where his high-point was reaching the quarter-finals of Euro 2012, former defender Blanc is back at the pinnacle of Ligue 1 with the ambitious PSG.

At 48, he would seem to be the perfect age to take on the major rebuilding work required at one of the world's most glamorous clubs and he would also command a great deal of respect from the fans immediately thanks to a 75-game stint with the Red Devils during his playing days.

Blanc understands the club and it's traditions intimately, which could hand him a significant advantage in the race for the post should he possess any interest in returning to Old Trafford.

Major honours

League titles: 1 (Bordeaux) - plus another imminent with PSG

Domestic Cups: 2 (1 League Cup Bordeaux; 1 League Cup PSG)

Selected betting odds on United's next permanent manager: Louis van Gaal 4/6; Carlo Ancelotti 13/2; Jose Mourinho 8/1; Jurgen Klopp 16/1; Ryan Giggs 22/1; Antonio Conte 28/1; Diego Simeone 33/1; Frank De Boer 33/1; Laurent Blanc 33/1; Pep Guardiola 40/1; Steve Bruce 66/1.

Follow me on Twitter: @davewh1980

Champions' League club focus: Bayern Munich

By David Lee Wheatley

Most observers' idea of a dream final got pulled out of the hat at the semi-final stage when reigning European champions Bayern Munich were paired with the 'Galacticos' of Real Madrid.

The tasty tie will see former Barça hero Pep Guardiola come up against his nemesis Real in a mouthwatering 'Clash of the Titans', which will undoubtedly produce the bookmakers' favourites to claim this year's title.

Bayern defended their domestic crown in style by winning the Bundesliga at a canter; they remained unbeaten until a surprise loss to Augsburg on April 5th, which was followed up a week later by a 0-3 thrashing at the hands of great rivals Borussia Dortmund. However, it must be stressed that top spot had been sealed long before those twin setbacks - after a record 27 games in fact - and perhaps their collective attention has wandered towards the task of holding on to the biggest prize in European football.

They've displayed some apparent frailties in Champions' League action this term with a disappointing loss during the group stages to Manchester City and a rather uninspiring first-leg draw at Old Trafford before disposing of Premier Lesgue strugglers Manchester United in their second meeting.

Exalted head coach Guardiola is seeking to infuse his own pass-and-move style of football with Bayern's more traditional game built on their superior power and strength. It's still very much a work in progress, but the class of footballer that the Catalan can call upon offers the German giants a distinct possibility of reaching the final for the fourth time in five seasons.

Manuel Neuer has missed two successive games through injury, but should be fit to start Wednesday's first encounter at the Bernebeu. He is far and away Guardiola's number one and the club will move hell and high water in order to get him fit to start the match in Madrid. Captain Lahm has largely featured in a new midfield role handed to him by the imaginative Pep, but has since retreated to a more recognisable position of full-back recently. Jerome Boateng, Dante and David Alaba are the regular three alongside the man who eventually gets the nod at right-back, be it Lahm or Rafinha.

There are two prominent formations regularly utilised by the former Spain international, either 4-1-4-1 with Lahm as the holding player or 4-2-3-1. Guardiola's Barcelona side loved to create through the middle, with Messi the main focus of attack when floating around an area between midfield and attack. They attempted to pass opposition teams into submission, while pressing the ball when out of possession on the basis of a seven-second rule which was intrinsically understood and carried out with incisive precision.

It's vastly different at Bayern, due mainly to their over-reliance on the silky skills of Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben. Though they possess myriad talented footballers in the middle of the park, it's when they deliver the ball to their dashing wingers that defenders become most concerned. Meanwhile, the increased anticipation of an expectant Bavarian crowd is palpable when those two speed demons drive into the final third of the pitch.

Assuming the Germans go for a 4-2-3-1 line-up in the Spanish capital, plus Lahm does indeed settle into the right-hand side of defence, then the two screening midfielders will probably be Javi Martinez and the inspirational Bastian Schweinsteiger. In front of them, Dutchman Robben will take up residence on the right with French playmaker Ribery implanted to the left of a lone striker. Toni Kroos is then likely to pull the strings from the centre of the pack behind feared forward Mario Mandzukic, who should lead the line in his usual bustling style.

Numerous alternative options from deeper within an extremely strong squad include Mario Gotze, Thiago Alcantara, Rafinha, Thomas Muller, Claudio Pizarro, Holger Badstuber, Diego Contento and Daniel Van Buyten. The guy who'll feel most harshly treated will be the versatile Muller should he get forced to take up a watching brief from the bench and it may be that he actually sneaks into the starting XI ahead of Kroos or Mandzukic.

Although they have gone off the boil somewhat in domestic circles recently, there's no doubting the capability of Bayern's all-star side to pull off a famous victory. Additionally, Guardiola knows his Madrid foes inside-out thanks to a glittering spell in charge of his beloved Barcelona and that understanding of his opponents should stand him in good stead heading into this extremely tough two-legged tie.

Despite sluggish performances against the likes of Manchester United, Augsburg and Dortmund throughout recent weeks, it's still difficult to see beyond Bayern for the trophy once again this season.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Gazza Mania! - #BlogToLisbon campaign by www.camporetro.com

My entry for the #BlogToLisbon campaign by www.camporetro.com

 

By David Lee Wheatley

It was a balmy late-August evening when north London club Tottenham Hotspur visited for the opening home fixture of Sunderland's 1990-91 Division One campaign and it was sure to be a huge test of the Rokerites' ability to cope in the top-flight following an incredibly fortunate promotion.

Swindon Town triumphed over Sunderland at Wembley in the May play-off final thanks to a Gary Bennett own goal, which apparantly condemned the north-east club to another year battling to reach the promised land. However, The Robins were found to have made illegal payments to players over a four-year period, which breached several Football League regulations along the way. The alloted punishment was to have their advancement to the First Division annulled in favour of losing finalists Sunderland taking their spot instead.

Denis Smith's men were suddenly on an incredible high due to their unexpected reprieve following the awful setback they'd suffered at Wembley. The team were determined to make the most of their good fortune and they couldn't have chosen a better way to welcome top-flight football back to Roker Park than to take on glamorous foes Spurs, complete with two superstars fresh from competing in a World Cup that had England fans everywhere dreaming of lifting the golden trophy for the first time since 1966.

I was stood in the Roker End that day as an excited ten-year-old, just to the right of the goal in a corner compartment that was filling up to maximum capacity in anticipation of kick-off. The floodlights shone down on an immaculate playing surface and the atmosphere inside was absolutely electric. My cousin and I were taken to the match by my father and we always got there early before most supporters had arrived; that decision positioned us right at the front behind large yellow metal fencing, which I could barely see over!

As kick-off approached, it became apparent our part of the ground was becoming dangerously full with no sign of any let-up in the increasing amount of fans making their way into that corner. I actually heard at one stage to my utter horror a steward exclaiming, "we can get another thousand in here!". At that point, I was being pushed into the fence by a large group of grown men who'd made their way into the area surrounding us and it was quickly developing into a terribly worrying situation!

Remember, this was before all-seater stadia had been introduced and a young lad of my age at the time didn't stand a chance of keeping his footing when getting crushed against the metal fencing. Eventually, the side of my face was jammed up against the yellow bars ahead of me and a split-second decision by some of the stewards in attendance meant that all of the children at the front were lifted out to safety and led away from the scene. Unbelievably for us, we were all lined up immediately behind the advertising hoardings in a prime location extremely close to the pitch just in time to witness the two sets of players making their way on to the field.

Rapturous applause rang out around a packed Roker Park to herald the arrival of the teams with Spurs resplendent in their yellow and black away strip, as the likes of Gary Lineker and Paul Gascoigne ran around doing warm-up stretches in preparation for the start of the game. Indeed, during one particular stretch down to touch his toes, the Geordie joker purposefully pointed his backside in the direction of the Main Stand when reacting to the dog's abuse being hurled in his direction from the terraces! Gazza's countrywide popularity had reached fever pitch due to his wonderful performances at Italia '90 and, of course, those infamous tears he shed in the semi-final against West Germany. He'd literally become the most adored footballer on the planet almost overnight, yet the Sunderland fans still hadn't forgotten his allegiance to Newcastle United!

His slightly chubby appearance was unmercifically prayed upon by the red-and-white army when a shower of Mars Bars hailed down on the Gateshead-born midfielder. In true Gazza style, he picked up the nearest chocolate bar, took a big bite and threw it behind the goal where our group were sat. The boy to my right, whom I wasn't familiar with, quickly snatched the half-eaten Mars Bar before wrapping it up and putting it in his pocket for safe-keeping. What a souvenir to take home; completely congealed most likely by the time he got back in the house from the warmth of the coat pocket on a sticky summer's night!

The anxious rush to grab that sought-after item of Mars memorabilia serves to perfectly illustrate the hysteria surrounding Gascoigne during that era; everybody wanted a piece of him, even his left-over food! He'd been the stand-out performer at the World Cup and his fame had peaked at the sort of level usually reserved for movie or rock stars. Nobody had captured the imagination of the English public in quite the same way as Gazza had achieved and to have both he and Lineker in direct competition with our hometown club - when we initially believed just a few months prior that we'd be watching Division Two football all over again - was an awesome sight to behold.

Even though the match ended in a 0-0 draw, it was a fabulous experience to be sat practically on the byline watching proceedings unfold and to witness those two international heroes in action. The 30,000 crowd were treated to a decent contest, but with very few goalscoring opportunities to speak of. I do, however, recall a Gary Lineker strike from about 20 yards flying towards my little face at a rate of knots before I took swift evasive action in order to avoid getting a burst nose or black eye to round off my eventful evening!

That early mark within the infancy of a brand new season held boundless hopes and dreams for both clubs and their dedicated followers, but it all ended in great disappointment league-wise. Terry Venables' side were third in the league after 17 matches, but fell away alarmingly to finish tenth while local arch-rivals Arsenal claimed the title. However, they tempered that feeling of failure by claiming the FA Cup when defeating Nottingham Forest in the final, albeit with the devastating loss of Gascoigne to serious injury. Meanwhile, Sunderland's Division One odyssey lasted only a solitary term, as they were relegated in 19th place alongside bottom club Derby County.

Despite the profound sadness related to relegation, I shall always fondly remember the day World Cup wonders Gazza and Gary Lineker came to town!

Follow me on Twitter: @davewh1980

 

In conjunction with @camporetro for their #BlogToLisbon competition

Champions' League club focus: Real Madrid

By David Lee Wheatley

Spanish giants Real Madrid were granted a free weekend in preparation for their Champions' League clash against Bayern Munich, with the first leg on Wednesday at the Bernebeu. Well rested and ready to go, can they halt Bayern's charge towards a second successive Champions' League trophy?

Carlo Ancelotti's men bounced another two German clubs out of the competition in the shape of Borussia Dortmund and near neighbours Schalke within the knockout stages so far, but struggled to sweep Dortmund aside ultimately despite a comfortable 3-0 victory in the quarter-final first leg. Real Madrid travelled to the industrial heartland of Germany apparantly in total control of the tie, yet lost 0-2 on the evening and were hanging on by the end.

Bundesliga champions already with matches to spare, Bayern Munich represent a significant step up in class from Real's previous German opponents and will provide their sternest test yet in this year's competition. They put English pair Arsenal and Manchester United to the sword prior to being paired with the Madrid behemoth and will feel confident of progressing to the final in order to have the opportunity to defend their title.

Highly decorated former Juventus, Milan, Chelsea and PSG supremo Ancelotti has tactical options open to him, with his squad equally adept at operating a free-flowing 4-3-3 formation or a more conservative 4-2-3-1 set-up. A lot will depend on Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness in terms of team selection, as the Portuguese star is struggling to make the opening meeting with Bayern due to a hamstring injury that saw him miss his side's midweek Copa del Rey triumph over arch-rivals Barcelona.

With the onus on Real to force the issue at home during the first leg of the contest, it's likely they will select an attacking 4-3-3 line-up with Bale and Isco sitting either side of main striker Karim Benzema in the expected absence of Ronaldo. Bale has been in tremendous form of late and his remarkable winning strike with minutes left in Valencia to claim the King's Cup firmly established him as a true Galactico.

The midfield will consist of the outstanding Luka Modric, Xabi Alonso and Angel Di Maria, who's ability to get down the wing and get accurate crosses into the box will be key to Real's success on the evening. Then, a back-four made up of Carvajal, Ramos, Pepe and probably Coentrao will sit ahead of regular goalkeeper Diego Lopez; Copa hero and former Real captain Iker Casillas is unlikely to maintain his position between the sticks despite his involvement in Wednesday's victory.

Should Cristiano Ronaldo become available, it'd push the youthful Isco out of the starting eleven. However, it's doubtful that Ancelotti will be able to call upon his 45-goal genius and that would be a shattering blow to the Italian's hopes of guiding his team to a solid first-leg lead. He requires all of his big guns in place from the start of this two-legged tie, otherwise it's quite conceivable that Real will need to pull off an unlikely win in Munich if they wish to make the final in Lisbon.

Doubts surround Los Blancos' stomach for the fight following their surrender in the north-west Ruhr region of Germany, which almost cost them their spot in the final four of this season's Champions' League. However, on their day they are a truly fantastic side and if they manage to get Ronaldo back in the mix and firing on all cylinders, the lifting of their first European Cup since 2002 could be within their grasp.

Twitter: @davewh1980

World Cup watch: Carroll v Lambert

By David Lee Wheatley

Southampton striker Rickie Lambert this week stated his direct rival for an England squad place is West Ham United's Andy Carroll, as the race for a World Cup spot heats up to boiling point. There are many similarities between the pair with both fabulous in the air and physically imposing, thus Roy Hodgson has a difficult decision to make when choosing which target man to take with him.

Where the clearest difference lies is Lambert's ability on the deck, which supersedes Carroll's skill on the ball. The Southampton man also possesses a dangerous direct free-kick, but he would have to overcome the seniority of one or two others for the ball when in an England shirt. However, Carroll is without doubt the finest header of a football in the Premier League, which is his greatest strength and sets him apart from most English strikers of his generation.

It used to be the norm to see tall, strapping centre-forwards strutting their stuff in almost all English club sides, but the modern trend has favoured smaller, pacy strikers over recent years meaning that an old-fashioned number nine has become something of a rarity. Hence why only one of either Lambert or Carroll can realistically expect to make the plane to Rio alongside vastly different types of strikers such as Rooney, Welbeck, Defoe and Sturridge; none of whom fit the same profile as Lambert or Carroll.

The stats so far this season suggest Lambert is the better bet, but Andy Carroll only returned to action after long-term injury in January and therefore managed just 13 appearances including this weekend's clash with Crystal Palace. Just two goals have come from Carroll in that period, but the lack of a prolific strike-rate could be attributed to those injury worries which plagued the former Newcastle United man throughout the first half of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Lambert has again been a talisman for a highly talented Southampton squad this season and he's assisted in the south coast side's encampment within the Premier League top ten for the majority of this term. The Kirkby-born battler has worked his way through every single division of league football and his 11 goals, plus 10 assists, from 34 league appearances keeps up his excellent 1-in-3 scoring ratio, while illustrating his importance to the team's passing style and build-up play.

Neither star managed to hit the mark today, as both spurned some decent chances in their respective fixtures. The Saints could only take a point away to Villa in a 0-0 draw, while the Hammers lost 0-1 in front of their own fans against Palace. Still, Carroll's injury issues in tandem with Southampton's sterling season may have handed Hodgson more opportunities to see Lambert in action and could put the amiable Scouser above his Geordie compatriot in the eyes of the national team manager.

In summary, if Hodgson wants a player who will come on the field of play to put himself about and apply pressure upon the opposition defence in the air allied to a more direct approach to the game, then Andy Carroll would be the most suitable option. Should the England boss prefer a powerful player who can set up and score goals, slot into a more progressive style of play and contribute inside and outside of the box, it has to be 32-year-old Lambert.

Either way the squad announcement eventually goes, both men in question would likely begin the World Cup looking on from the bench with Rooney and Sturridge apparantly ahead of them in the pecking order as we approach the tournament. Their potential impact from a substitute role will be extremely important in the final reckoning and should deem which player gets the nod for the biggest test of their careers.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Champions' League club focus: Chelsea

 

 

By David Lee Wheatley

 

 

It was a tale of two highly contrasting legs at the last-eight stage for Chelsea when coming up against the new-found riches and limitless ambition of Paris Saint-Germain. The French side ran the Blues ragged in their first meeting, with a 3-1 victory scant reward for their endeavour. However, Chelsea turned the tables on their confident opponents when recording a 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge with a late strike from forgotten man Demba Ba, which secured an away goal triumph few would have predicted on the evidence of the Parc des Princes clash six days earlier.

Mourinho’s men must now overcome La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid, who saw off the mighty challenge of compatriots Barcelona in the quarter-finals and head into the European Cup semi-finals for the first time in 43 years. Despite the Spanish capital club’s lack of experience at the very highest level of European football, they do have two Europa League trophy wins in their locker over the last four years and appear ready for the next step on to the biggest stage of all.

The west London side sit second in the Premier League going into this weekend’s round of domestic fixtures and have suffered from several inconsistencies in their performances throughout the campaign. Atletico represent a formidable obstacle to their chances of replicating the glorious Champions’ League success of 2012 and the underdogs tag could well be bestowed upon the Blues in anticipation of this titanic tie.

Possessing arguably the strongest central defensive pairing in Europe gives Chelsea great strength within their back-line, but it is often undermined and put under unnecessary pressure by the antics of the erratic David Luiz in the defensive midfield role. The Brazilian is undoubtedly a talented footballer, but he suffers from a lack of discipline and focus, which is essential in that holding role protecting Gary Cahill and John Terry. Luckily for Luiz, that all-English partnership has been largely solid as a rock and has bailed the team out of a hole on numerous occasions this season.

Atletico will pinpoint Luiz as the Blues’ main weakness, but will also welcome the news that combative full-back Ivanovic is suspended and chief attacking threat Eden Hazard is doubtful with a calf injury. With the likes of Samuel Eto’o, Demba Ba and particularly Fernando Torres failing to find any level of goalscoring form, Mourinho will be desperate for the Belgian to feature. The Portuguese has favoured a 4-2-3-1 formation throughout the majority of his first season back in English football, with Hazard crucial on the left-hand side of the three men deployed behind a main striker. Andre Schurrle would likely deputise in his absence, but it would be a bitter blow to Chelsea’s hopes of progressing to lose the majestic former Lille man from the line-up.

Demba Ba has scored two goals in two consecutive games heading into the weekend and has possibly done enough to keep his place up-front. However, powerful centre-backs Godin and Miranda won’t exactly spend sleepless nights worrying about facing the physical ex-Newcastle forward ahead of Tuesday’s home leg. It will be interesting to see if Mourinho plumps for former Atletico icon Torres in the hope that playing against his old club could reignite the fire within the striker’s belly in order to finally get the best out of the fading star. Despite his troubles in a Chelsea shirt, he is still revered at the Vicente Calderon and would cause more concern to the Madrid defence than anyone else in terms of their mental approach to the match.   

Suspension to Branislav Ivanovic should mean Cesar Azpilicueta returns to right-back from the left where he has been impressive, while Ashley Cole will probably come back into the fold. Ramires and David Luiz would be expected to begin in the defensive section of the midfield, but there are whispers of Luiz being deployed at right-back, thus leaving Cole out in the cold and forcing the surprise inclusion of Mikel. Willian, Oscar, Hazard, Lampard and Schurrle will battle it out for the three berths behind a lone frontman and then Ba, Eto’o and Torres will look to secure that one available position up top. It’s doubtful that Mourinho would experiment again with Schurrle in that striker role, as it failed to work out to any satisfactory degree when attempted in the first leg against PSG.

 

Chelsea’s backs are against the wall and they will thoroughly deserve a spot in the Lisbon final should they dispose of the Spaniards over what promises to be two hard-fought meetings. A lack of goals from recognised strikers and the liability of Luiz could well prove to be the downfall of this solid, if unspectacular outfit.

 

Twitter: @davewh1980

 



Champions' League club focus: Atlético Madrid

By David Lee Wheatley

Outsiders Atlético Madrid have forged a reputation for upsetting the odds in recent years under highly-rated head coach Diego Simeone and they will aim to do just that once again when facing Chelsea over two legs in the Champions' League semi-finals which commence next week.

Since Simeone's arrival in December 2011, Atlético have won three trophies of great significance (Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and Copa del Rey) while firmly establishing themselves within La Liga's top three. A 3rd-place finish last season has been followed by a league-leading performance this campaign which threatens to knock more illustrious rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid off their domestic perch. Should Atléti keep up their current league form, then a first Spanish championship since 1996 could well be on the cards.

In staying atop the standings in Spain and putting Barcelona to the sword at the last-eight stage of the Champions' League, the lesser fancied Madrid side have proved they have the quality to claim at least one major trophy this season and could arguably be considered slight favourites against a Chelsea team that often appear strong defensively but toothless in attack. Just to spice matters up even further, Atlético's star striker Diego Costa is said to be on Mourinho's wish-list as part of a projected summer spending spree.

Favouring a solid 4-4-2 formation, Simeone has set about constructing a well-organised and efficient side during just over two years at the helm. On-loan Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been in sterling form throughout three consecutive seasons at the Vicente Calderón and is eligible to face his parent club, according to UEFA sources.

Full-back Juanfran provides a threat going forward, while the dependable Godin has struck up a very strong partnership in the centre with the vastly improved Miranda. Turkish international Arda Turan is a hard-working wide midfielder who pops up with the occasional goal at opportune moments, with Tiago and Gabi performing heroics alongside him in the middle of the park. The versatile Koke knows his way to goal, usually from a left-sided role, and has been receiving admiring glances from the Premier League thanks to his displays.

Simeone has plentiful options, too, with the returning Diego back at the club from Wolfsburg and forward Raúl García able to slot in up-front or as an attacking midfielder. The Argentine even shrugged off the sizeable loss of superstar Radamel Falcao to Monaco last summer by handing top-billing to Diego Costa and also drafting in experienced forward David Villa. The combative Costa has plundered 26 league strikes this term, with another seven so far in European competition; little wonder that Chelsea have their eyes on a £50m deal at the end of the campaign. For now though, the naturalised Spaniard originally hailing from Lagarto near the east coast of Brazil shall continue to lead the line as the destructive driving force of this impressive outfit. Their chief dangerman did suffer a nasty cut to his leg after colliding with a post when scoring against Getafe recently, but is certain to start on Tuesday according to his manager.

The Rojiblancos are three points clear in the race for the Spanish title and have proved more than a match for both Milan and Barcelona in the Champions' League, so won't be afraid of an inconsistent Chelsea side still searching for their best forward line this late in proceedings. Cahill and Terry will have to be at their best to keep Costa quiet, while the Spaniards will be hoping David Luiz plays in front of them due to his penchant for coming a cropper. Meanwhile, Demba Ba or the fading Samuel Eto'o will need to be at their absolute best to unlock the opposition rearguard whomever gets the nod, with former Atléti terrace hero Fernando Torres still unable to reach his peak of years past.

Atlético's players will cover every blade of grass for one another, closing down space, putting their foot into tackles and harassing Chelsea off the ball. Once they gain possession, they like to get it wide and utilise the whole width of the pitch. Chelsea's defenders should expect a tough night in the air from Costa, while also having to be alert when the ball breaks to any Madrid star around the edge of the box, as they will happily shoot from distance at any given opportunity.

It all points to a fascinating contest given additional zest by the various links between the clubs, with transfer rumours surrounding Costa and Courtois swirling around alongside José Mourinho's prior allegiance to Atlético's local rivals Real for a turbulent three-year period.

If the west Londoners thought they got the easiest draw in comparison with possibly meeting mighty contenders Real or Bayern at this final four stage of the tournament, they should think again.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Bale blockbuster breaks Barça hearts

By David Lee Wheatley

Real Madrid took home the King's Cup after a hard-fought meeting with arch-rivals Barcelona left the Catalan side's season crumbling down all around them.

Having lost to local foes Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions' League quarter-finals, the Blaugrana were hopeful of securing at least one major trophy this campaign in the domestic cup competition they last won in 2012.

The Copa del Rey final appeared delicately poised at 1-1 with just moments remaining inside a packed Mestalla in Valencia when Gareth Bale received the ball on the halfway line and set his sights on goal.

Angel Di Maria handed Real an early lead in the 11th minute, but Barcelona were level just over twenty minutes into the second half through a Marc Bartra header. In fact, Barça were looking the better side as normal time in the tie drew to a close.

However, Welshman Bale had designs on victory when isolating the tiring Bartra one-on-one in his favoured left-hand side area of the pitch. The Barcelona defender was in trouble the moment Bale knocked the ball several yards in front of him and began galloping towards goal; the power on display was extraordinary as he set off on a trademark lung-busting run.

Bartra tried to knock Bale off balance with a shoulder charge, but was unsuccessful in his attempts to stop the flying machine from gliding past him. Bale actually bounced off his opponent so severely that he ended up running off the field of play and into the coach's technical area in order to go around Bartra and reconnect with the ball. It proved just how quick and strong the former Tottenham man is when he literally had to take a round-trip to maintain possession.

Once Bale got back within the boundaries of the pitch, it was a losing battle for Bartra to put in a telling tackle. The world's most expensive footballer zeroed in on the penalty box before toe-poking the ball beyond Barça keeper Pinto to bring the house down in Valencia.

Despite Neymar's best efforts to equalise in injury-time when hitting the post, it was to be Real's night as Bale sealed his first trophy with Los Blancos following a summer switch from Spurs. His strike was worthy of winning any match and seems to have finally confirmed Bale's position at the top table of European football.

It's true that Bale's form and fitness fluctuated wildly at the beginning of his time in Madrid, but it must be remembered that he didn't have any involvement in Spurs' pre-season preparations due to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future in London. Therefore, considering the pressures caused by a protracted big-money transfer and the distinct lack of sharpness on arrival in a new country, it must be conceded that the 24-year-old has been a revelation overall and is only going to keep getting better with time.

Real remain firmly in the mix for both Champions' League and La Liga glory, as the first part of what would be an historic treble has been completed in sensational fashion ahead of the most crucial weeks of the campaign.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Will Pearce arrival prove to be yet another false dawn?

By David Lee Wheatley

Nottingham Forest cult hero Stuart Pearce has agreed to take over as their next manager, effective from July 1st. It heralds the beginning of a new era at the City Ground following the abrupt end of Billy Davies' second spell in charge at a club desperate for a return to the glory days of yore.

It was widely hoped that Davies would be capable of delivering promotion this campaign, but an eight-game winless streak left their season in danger of falling apart and led to the fiery Scot's dismissal.

The Reds sit one place and two points adrift of a play-off spot with seven matches left to play and caretaker boss Gary Brazil will feel an opportunity remains to make it to the promised land of the Premier League. Whether they're ready for such an elevation on the field of play is debatable, but off the pitch it would certainly give the club's coffers a massive shot in the arm as debts continue to mount.

Whatever division in which Pearce eventually takes charge come this summer, it appears a huge challenge for 'Psycho' to bring back the good times to a city starved of top-flight football for 15 years. 

Memories of the awesome side which achieved successive European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980 loom large over every manager who takes on the unenviable task of bossing Forest and it'll be no different for Pearce, despite his 12 years sterling service as a player there. Could he be the one who finally bucks the trend and consigns the ghost of Brian Clough to the history books once and for all?

His record in club management hardly inspires confidence, with a two-year spell at Manchester City starting out impressively before quickly descending into a nightmare prior to his sacking. Pearce also had a short time filling in as Forest caretaker manager in 1997, but he chose to leave in order to continue his playing career with Newcastle United instead of taking on the role full-time.

However, it was while in charge of the England U21 team that he set about constructing a fine coaching reputation during six years leading the young Lions, with a zenith reached when taking the side all the way to the 2009 European Championship final. His success at that level also encouraged then national team head coach Fabio Capello to include Pearce in preparations for the senior squad. Finally, he was handed the unique chance to coach Team GB at the 2012 Olympics and also enjoyed one match as caretaker with the senior team during the interim period between an unsavoury crumbling of the largely troubled Capello reign and the signing of current incumbent Roy Hodgson.

Pearce has successfully shed the whole 'Psycho' image during his time in coaching, while putting himself in the frame for many sought-after roles thanks to his exploits within the England set-up. Additionally, he knows Nottingham Forest better than anyone and that inside knowledge, coupled with an abiding bond with supporters, will stand him in good stead once he officially arrives to begin the job of rebuilding the team from the ground up.

Huge stock is placed on the academy production line in the eyes of the 51-year-old Londoner and a significant aim of his will be to develop a clutch of top footballers who come through the system to then flourish in the first-team. Allied to that belief in youth, there'll be an urgent requirement to bolster the squad with more experienced stars no matter which league Forest feature in next season. The former left-back will need a separate plan for each eventuality, thus making it essential to instigate a double-pronged search for potential transfer targets that would suit either division.

Despite initially turning down the chance to take over at the City Ground with seven games to go, it proved too great a pull to ensconce himself back at his old stomping ground once the focus of talks shifted towards a summer start date. Pearce admitted he had too much on his plate currently, but the renegotiated offer sounded just right for a man who has never been one to shirk a challenge.

"By the time I've finished with management – and hopefully that will be a number of years yet – if ever I felt I had the opportunity to join this great club and turned it down, that I had never walked through those doors as manager, I don't think I would not be totally fulfilled," he proclaimed when introduced to the press.

"I am happy to lead that kind of challenge. I want to galvanise this club and drive it forwards."

If Pearce is afforded the time in which to realise his exalted ambitions for the future of the club, then fans of a true 'sleeping giant' of English football may well find it eminently possible to look ahead with a much brighter outlook after several years of torment.

Twitter: @davewh1980

PSG project scales new heights

 

 

By David Lee Wheatley

Relentless pre-match talk surrounding the danger posed by Paris Saint-Germain superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic characterised the build-up to the Champions’ League quarter-final tie with Chelsea, yet it was an inspired performance by less-heralded fellow forward Ezequiel Lavezzi – aided by some extremely poor Chelsea defending it must be said - that eventually led to the Blues’ downfall in the French capital last night.

The home side took the game to their illustrious opponents from the off and duly grabbed a fourth-minute lead through an exquisite finish by Lavezzi. He chested down a poor headed clearance from John Terry which then fell slightly behind him, but somehow managed to lift off his right foot in a backward motion shortly before striking the ball unerringly with his left in one fell swoop. It was a sublime goal from a man who has endured a torrent of criticism from certain quarters since joining the PSG revolution in 2012. However, it was his time to shine yesterday with an energetic showing which forced more feted team-mates into the shade.

Chelsea were struggling to impose themselves on the game until they were gifted a penalty on 26 minutes by the usually reliable centre-back Thiago Silva. Hazard scored with ease and brought the visitors back into the reckoning for the remainder of the half, with the Parisians losing focus and concentration on several occasions.

Half-time allowed the hosts an opportunity to regroup and they set about taking Chelsea apart on the resumption of the action in the second half. It was a dominant display which showed true mettle and resolve from a side whose collective heart for the fight had been questioned in the run-up to the quarter-final clash. Could the silky-skilled artisans who have led PSG to the top of Ligue 1 largely unopposed cope with the rugged, physical, counter-attacking approach of their experienced rivals? The answer was an emphatic ‘yes’ when it mattered most out there on the Parc des Princes turf in front of their adoring fans.

Jose Mourinho gambled by selecting Andre Schurrle as a lone striker ahead of more recognised protagonists of the role, even though he is a winger by trade, and placing David Luiz in a defensive midfield position supposedly protecting the back-four. Those decisions proved costly, with the former stifled by a well-organised PSG outfit and the latter appearing totally lost as he failed miserably to provide a launching pad for attacks or the requisite shield for centre-back pairing Cahill and Terry.

Just beyond the hour-mark, a wicked in-swinging free-kick from the influential Lavezzi brought about PSG’s second goal when the ineffectual David Luiz put the ball into his own net under little pressure, possibly put off by the presence of Ibrahimovic to his left.

Meanwhile, Zlatan went off with a muscle injury on 68 minutes having only affected the game fleetingly in one of his least impressive club appearances of a wildly successful season thus far.   

Ibrahimovic’s premature departure from proceedings failed to halt the Paris freight train running amok over a beleaguered Chelsea rearguard when piling further misery on to the away side in injury-time; sub Javier Pastore firstly left Azpilicueta on his backside, before stylishly dribbling past Lampard and firing low and hard past Cech at his near post to round off a remarkable night.

This convincing statement sent out by the galaxy of Paris Saint-Germain stars cannot be underestimated; those who doubted their credentials to lift the Champions’ League trophy this campaign have been made to eat their words to an extent, while putting 2012 European champions Chelsea to the sword much like sacrificial lambs to the slaughter will undoubtedly encourage burgeoning fear inside the hearts of PSG’s potential final-four opponents should they complete the job at Stamford Bridge next Tuesday.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Report: Paris Saint-Germain v Chelsea

By David Lee Wheatley

Jose Mourinho sprang a surprise in his team selection by choosing winger-cum-forward Andre Schurrle as a lone striker at the Parc des Princes, as his Chelsea side travelled to Paris looking for a vital away goal to take back to Stamford Bridge.

Hosts PSG began the game with gusto and their early pressure told when Argentine live-wire Ezequiel Lavezzi pounced on a weak defensive header by Chelsea captain John Terry to send a half-volley into the roof of the net in only the fourth minute. It required fantastic technique from the former Napoli man to chest the ball down and drag it from slightly behind him to then finish sweetly past Petr Cech.

Ramires received a cheap yellow card after 12 minutes when he fouled the goalscorer Lavezzi, who made the most of a poor challenge by rolling over-and-over in order to catch the referee's eye. Unfortunately for the feisty midfielder, the booking means he will miss the return leg in London next week.

The Parisians desire to extend their lead showed no sign of abating with a great run along the left-hand side of the penalty area from danger-man Lavezzi, only for his low shot to harmlessly hit the side-netting.

However, Thiago Silva threw all of the home side's good work out of the window when felling international team-mate Oscar in the box to give away a penalty in the 26th minute. Former Lille star Eden Hazard, marked out as the player to watch from the very start by the opposition defence, slotted the ball away into the bottom left of the goal with great aplomb to level matters.

Chelsea visibly grew in confidence following Hazard's strike and PSG were panicking in possession, thus giving the visitors abundant opportunities to attack.

Belgian Hazard was becoming more effective on the left of Chelsea's forward line, culminating in a fabulous volley which beat keeper Sirigu all ends up, but bounced back out off the far post to safety. It was oh-so-unlucky for the Blues, as they strove desperately to get their noses in front.

With seconds left in the first-half, Cavani tangled with Cahill in the box only to have his vociferous penalty appeals turned down by the Serbian official. Replays suggested there was in fact a case to answer and the Uruguayan can count himself unfortunate not to have gotten the call in his favour.

There commenced a rather frantic start to the second period and the best chance of the opening exchanges arrived when Lavezzi headed just over from a Matuidi cross on 52 minutes.

Six minutes later, the hard-working Schurrle was replaced by Fernando Torres for the first substitution of the evening. It seemed to upset Chelsea's rhythm somewhat, as PSG began putting their guests under the cosh substantially more than they'd done since Hazard's equaliser.

Just after the hour-mark, PSG broke through the opposition rearguard with an inswinging free-kick which was turned in for an own goal by utility man David Luiz. His running pattern meant he met the ball full-on and was unable to adjust his feet in order to clear the ball to safety.

It was all PSG following their scrappy second, with Ibrahimovic seeing a powerful attempt blocked by John Terry and then Cavani burst through only to find the considerable obstacle of Gary Cahill standing strong in his path. 

In the midst of the fast-paced action, both Ibrahimovic and Verratti had to go off the field with injuries which plunges their chances of participation at Stamford Bridge into severe doubt.

Meanwhile, Mourinho's men managed to break out on the counter-attack twice through firstly Eden Hazard and then Torres, only for both moves to break down at the crucial moment. The final pass was missing in each case when Chelsea held the numerical advantage against opponents who'd sent too many players forward into the attacking third.

Javier Pastore came on for 'Man-of-the-Match' Lavezzi, as Paris Saint-Germain made their final change of the night. He jogged off to a standing ovation from the appreciative capacity crowd in attendance.

Edinson Cavani came close to scoring once again in the 84th minute when curling a low effort just past Cech's left-hand upright. A mêlée ensued shortly afterwards between the frustrated striker and David Luiz, which saw PSG head coach Laurent Blanc lead the frizzy-haired Brazilian away from the epicentre of the argument to avoid further tension between the pair. Thanks largely to the actions of World Cup winner Blanc, both got away with a stern word from the sensible referee.

Matters appeared to be drawing to a close at 2-1, with Chelsea seemingly happy to take their away goal and run. However, sub Pastore had other ideas deep into injury-time, as he stepped past the prone Azpilicueta on the right near the byline and then dribbled skilfully beyond Lampard before firing a stinger underneath Cech at his near post for PSG's third.

Going into the highly anticipated return in six days time, Pastore's late intervention hands the French league leaders a comfortable two-goal cushion to fall back on in the face of the expected onslaught to come. The final scoreline also suggests the wealthy Parisian outfit are serious contenders for the trophy this time around after dropping out at the quarter-final stage last season.

As for Chelsea, they're left with a mountain to climb if they're to rekindle faint hopes of achieving Champions' League glory for the second time in three years.

Twitter: @davewh1980