Chelsea star Marcos Alonso earns Premier League respect

 

By David Lee Wheatley (@davewh1980)

 

Marcos Alonso was dismissed by some observers as a journeyman incapable of improving big-spending Chelsea, but he has spectacularly confounded his critics this season.

Alonso’s stunning showings for the Blues since a reported £23 million move back to the Premier League may have come as a surprise to many, but not to followers of previous clubs Bolton Wanderers, Sunderland and Fiorentina.

The exorbitant fee involved – within this vulgar period of outlandish sums being thrown around for even the most average of footballers – was viewed as a feat of wild opportunism on the part of La Viola.

However, those appraisals were surely concluded without looking deeper at the impact made by the player during time spent with his former employers.

Alonso made his way through the ranks at star-studded Real Madrid to post a solitary first-team appearance as a late substitute at Racing Santander in April 2010.

He was allowed to leave the Bernabeu that summer despite undoubted promise and subsequently embarked upon a journey to north-west England – not along the usual route to one of the big guns based within that region, but on the less-trodden path to Bolton.

Burden of expectation as he tried to emulate his footballing father and granddad perhaps put undue pressure on the young man’s shoulders, especially as both relatives in question featured on the highest stage domestically and were capped internationally.

His recovery from that setback was a slow-burner, as he played a bit-part throughout two Premier League campaigns which eventually led to relegation. He later found form at Championship level, where the Trotters missed out on a play-off spot by a whisker and Alonso claimed a worthy Player of the Year accolade.

Wanderers offered a new contract, but he opted for an intriguing switch to Serie A with Fiorentina instead. Again, scant progress was made, as he struggled to hold down a regular slot in the team aside from the odd European run-out. As a result, he returned to England quicker than expected by way of a short-term loan with Premier League side Sunderland a few months later.

Alonso’s influence on the top-flight strugglers was instant, with his boundless energy and marauding runs along the left flank improving Gus Poyet’s side both defensively and in attack.

His displays were a revelation, as the Black Cats reached Wembley for a cherished League Cup final appearance and came back from the dead to stave off the dreaded drop.

He swiftly became a fans’ favourite, and it was evident that both the club’s adoring support and then-boss Poyet wanted to complete a permanent deal for the likeable Spaniard.

Drawn-out talks took place between Sunderland and their Italian counterparts, who were said to be holding out for £5 million, but an agreement could not be reached. The rest, as they say, is history.

Alonso returned to Italy unsure of his future, but revelled in a similar advanced position to the one he currently occupies for Chelsea, as La Viola reached the Europa League and Coppa Italia semi-finals in his first term back in purple.

After two barnstorming years, the Gigliati were reluctant to sell, hence the transfer-fee inflation rate. But, the Madrid-born star represented the exact prototype required to click seamlessly into Antonio Conte’s tactical framework and they simply had to snare his services, regardless of cost.    

Now a key factor in an expansive 3-4-3 formation, which has helped the west Londoners to the top of the league, Alonso looks every inch the top-class player that those who saw him at close quarters in the past believed he could become.

Four goals, two assists and 18 chances created from 20 outings thus far offer a clear indication of his attacking prowess, whilst he has made an average of 1.7 interceptions and 3.4 clearances per game when undertaking defensive duties.

Those who scoffed at Chelsea’s pursuit of a man who has since become a starting line-up fixture have fallen strangely silent, now that everyone has finally woken up to the assured 26-year-old’s true quality.

Entering into the prime of his career, an international cap to proudly place alongside his dad and grandfather’s cherished honours shouldn’t be too far away.

 



Arsenal still have much to do in order to prove win at Manchester City was no fluke

By David Lee Wheatley    @davewh1980 on Twitter

Arsenal’s victory over Manchester City suggests Arsene Wenger’s side have finally found an effective way to deliver successful results against top opposition.

Manchester City would’ve been mightily surprised by Arsenal’s approach at the Etihad on Sunday, as were many observers watching on, but the Gunners’ unfamiliar counter-attacking style paid huge dividends when defeating the reigning Premier League champions.

It seems the penny has finally dropped with the north Londoners’ long-serving manager that he no longer possesses the squad capable of overrunning opponents with all-out attacking intent.

That was eminently possible during the vintage 2003-04 season when the ‘Invincibles’ went an entire Premier League campaign without loss, but not any longer.

Another plan had to be sought to allow Arsenal to resume winning ways against a City outfit they’d failed to beat away from home since October 2011.

Wenger came to a long overdue realisation that his current crop of players required an urgent readjustment to alter their troublesome lack of resilience.

They’d been found wanting far too often, with the fragility of their back-line and defensive midfield area exposed with great ease by a succession top-four challengers.

The Gunners managed only 35 per cent possession during the contest in Manchester, which represents the smallest amount of time in control of the ball they’ve achieved since Opta records began in 2003.

Undoubtedly, playmaker Santi Cazorla’s wonderful end-to-end performance was instrumental in the eventual outcome, but it was the overall discipline showcased by the entire team which led to a 2-0 victory which brought Manchester City 12-match unbeaten run to a shuddering halt.

Central defenders Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny were protected brilliantly by 23-year-old Frenchman Francis Coquelin, who produced his best showing yet in an Arsenal shirt. The pair rarely appeared to be under any significant pressure and almost always found time on the ball to clear their lines successfully when called upon.

Coquelin was ably assisted by the dynamic Cazorla, with the Spanish star popping up everywhere when battling for the ball in his own half and carrying it into enemy territory beyond several attempted tackles that simply couldn’t stop his progress.

Full-backs Nacho Monreal and Hector Bellerin also stuck to their duties diligently without succumbing to the damaging marauding runs forward that Arsenal’s flank defenders are often guilty of employing.

Arsenal’s display drew widespread praise from media pundits across the board, as well as from a beaming Wenger afterwards, in what amounts to a rather ironic twist considering his regular admonishment of rival Premier League teams who’ve set out their stall with similar strategies against the Gunners in the past.

However, it doesn’t seem to be as bitter a pill to swallow for the experienced tactician as most people would have believed after witnessing his contented smile for the cameras after securing a precious three points at the home of the champions.

They’ve apparently accepted that a sea-change in approach was needed heading into those kinds of high-profile fixtures and the key now is to put that level of performance into practice on a consistent basis in order to make certain the win over City wasn’t simply a flash in the pan.

Follow me on Twitter: search @davewh1980

Newcastle United job: The early pacesetters as Pardew prepares to join Palace

By David Lee Wheatley      @davewh1980

Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew surprisingly agreed to talks with Crystal Palace over their managerial vacancy yesterday following a rollercoaster four-year spell at the St. James' Park helm, thus opening up an attractive post to a host of interested managers across Europe.

Here are the latest names being linked to the top job on Tyneside, as the club attempt to appease fans largely unhappy with the direction the club has taken in recent times.

FABRICIO COLOCCINI: Current United defender Coloccini enjoys a strong relationship with the club's board, but has absolutely no experience as a coach to date. There's been a rush of bets on him overnight to become the next permanent manager making him favourite for the role.

PETER BEARDSLEY: Former Newcastle favourite Beardsley has been doing sterling work with the club's academy and may be offered the chance to take over the senior team. Would be a popular choice.

TONY PULIS: Has been out of work since keeping Crystal Palace up last season and would jump at the chance to manage the Magpies, but his direct brand of football wouldn't go down well with many Toon supporters.

FRANK DE BOER: Has enjoyed splendid success domestically with four successive Ajax title victories. De Boer would probably only leave the Amsterdam giants for a Champions League qualification contender, while his agent says there's no chance he'll jump ship mid-season. However, he seemingly ticks all of the boxes in terms of what Newcastle require if they could nab him.

STEVE BRUCE: Corbridge-born Bruce is struggling to keep Hull City out of Premier League relegation trouble, so it remains to be seen whether the ex-Sunderland boss would be welcomed back to his Geordie roots with open arms. Experienced relative success with the likes of Birmingham City and Wigan Athletic, but struggled badly with heightened expectation when last working in the north-east. Would almost certainly accept an offer from Newcastle having reportedly come close to the post on at least two occasions in the past.

ALLY MCCOIST: Led Glasgow Rangers through two quick-fire promotions from Scottish League Two to the Championship after suffering the heartache of demotion to the bottom tier. However, continual upheaval at boardroom level eventually enforced his decision to resign with Rangers sitting in second spot behind leaders Hearts. The Newcastle job would appear too big a step due to his lack of coaching experience outside of Scotland, but owner Mike Ashley's business links to Rangers will undoubtedly see McCoist strongly linked.

CHRISTOPHE GALTIER: Rumours were rife in May about a reported Newcastle approach for Saint-Etienne head coach Galtier's services only for the 48-year-old to remain in France. He took Les Verts to creditable finishes of 10th, 7th, 5th and 4th after previous short stints in charge of Marseille and Aris Salonika. The former Portsmouth assistant to Alain Perrin is likely to be high up on the list of contenders.

RAFA BENITEZ: A slightly fanciful name thrown into the ring is that of former Liverpool and Chelsea boss Benitez. The current Napoli coach could be tempted by a return to England with his future in Italy unclear thanks to stalling contract talks. Has claimed 12 major honours in a highly decorated career, so would be expected to wait for a team competing in continental competition to hand him a way out of Naples.

TIM SHERWOOD: Has been linked to a series of Premier League and Championship jobs since leaving Tottenham Hotspur, where his straight-talking style divided public opinion. Sherwood would almost certainly fancy taking on the gargantuan task of leading the Magpies, but his appointment would be met with collective dismay on Tyneside.

REMI GARDE: Former Arsenal player Garde left Lyon at the end of last season for personal reasons following three years in charge. He inspired a French Cup triumph in 2012, but couldn't return the club to their former dominance of Ligue 1. His decision to take a break from football to spend more time with his family just over six months ago might suggest he's unwilling to rejoin the managerial merry-go-round yet.

TEMURI KETSBAIA: Georgian who stepped down as head coach of his national side in November following heavy defeat at the hands of Poland in a Euro 2016 qualifying match. Ketsbaia enjoyed cult hero status during his Newcastle playing days and has often spoken of his desire to one day manage the Magpies. Must be considered an outsider for the role, though.

JOHN CARVER: Newcastle-born Carver has served as assistant manager to both Sir Bobby Robson and Alan Pardew at St. James' Park, while also having a short spell as caretaker following Robson's departure. It's unclear whether Carver would have the appetite to take over the hot-seat on a permanent basis.p

GLENN HODDLE: The former England manager has been out of top-flight management for several years and may be viewed as a stop-gap appointment if handed the United reins. Hoddle currently splits his time between media work and carrying out coaching duties as part of the backroom staff at QPR. 

10 Best Premier League Brazilians

By David Lee Wheatley @davewh1980


The influx of foreign players into the Premier League began in earnest during the 1990s bringing a wonderful clutch of talent to the English game that has improve the quality on show considerably. Here’s my list of the top 10 Brazilians who have graced the Premier League during the last 20 years or so.

10. Julio Cesar (QPR)
Champions League winner Julio Cesar joined Queens Park Rangers in 2012 and suffered a torrid time working behind a porous defence that allowed 61 goals during that awful relegation season. Despite those unimpressive statistics, the veteran performed heroically at times to prove his class and there would’ve been many more heavy defeats for the R’s to swallow without his supreme agility and goalkeeping prowess. Now plying his trade with Benfica following a short stint in MLS with Toronto FC.

9. Emerson Thome (Sheffield Wednesday, Chelsea, Sunderland, Bolton Wanderers, Wigan Athletic)
Strong central defender Emerson Thome came to these shores from Portuguese giants Benfica in 1997 and made a big impression at Hillsborough before a lucrative switch to Chelsea two years later. He played second fiddle to Frank Leboeuf and Marcel Desailly for much of his time there, but was rescued by Peter Reid nine months later when signing for Sunderland. Strangely for a Brazilian, Thome couldn’t pass accurately and often looked uncomfortable in possession, but he was hugely talented in the art of defending. Became something of a cult hero at the Stadium of Light before enjoying spells with Bolton Wanderers, Wigan Athletic, Derby County and Vissel Kobe in japan.

8. Willian (Chelsea)
Turned down Spurs to join Chelsea for £32million in August 2013 from Russian outfit Anzhi and has made a significant impact during his short time in the Premier League. He’s been in-and-out of Jose Mourinho’s starting line-up, but always seems to alter the course of the game positively whether coming off the bench or lining up from the beginning of games. Pacy and keen to take opponents on, Willian has the ability to excite the crowd in order to get them on their feet and is certainly capable of nailing down a regular spot at Stamford Bridge.

7. Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool)
Young attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho flattered to deceive during three years at Inter in Serie A – interspersed with a short loan spell at Espanyol – but has blossomed under Brendan Rodgers at Anfield. Skilful, forward-thinking and with a keen eye for goal, 22-year-old Coutinho will only get better and could eventually become a regular in his national team having made three appearances for the senior Brazil side thus far. His ability to carve out opportunities for others is undoubtedly greatest strength.

6. Oscar (Chelsea)
At 23, Oscar has already featured for Sao Paulo, Internacional and Chelsea during his fledgling career, while amassing 40 caps for his country. After an indifferent opening campaign at Stamford Bridge in 2012-13, the attacking midfield schemer has since grown in stature at Premier League level and now looks every inch a superstar. Oscar is a fabulous passer of the ball, while also creating plenty of time on the ball for himself, plus he’s significantly improving his goalscoring contribution. It’ll be an interesting to see how long Chelsea manage to hold on to the youngster, with just about every big club around Europe shooting admiring glances in his direction.

5. Edu (Arsenal)
Defensive midfielder Edu was initially a low-profile signing by Arsene Wenger from Corinthians, but made a massive impression during a four-year stay at Highbury. Strong but fair, Edu was the catalyst for a great deal of the fantastic attacking work produced by the Gunners during that period. He was elegant on the ball, deft in the tackle and inventive when striding forwards. Edu was an integral part of the ‘Invincibles’ team of 2003-04, but ended up leaving for Valencia a year later.

4. Ramires (Chelsea)
Ramires has been a consistent performer on the right-hand side of Chelsea’s midfield since leaving Benfica in 2010 with his galloping runs, strong work ethic and willingness to put challenges in when required endearing him to supporters. The 27-year-old has clocked up over half-a-century of international caps for Brazil, while playing a key role in Chelsea’s magnificent Champions League triumph of 2012.

3. Sandro (Tottenham Hotspur and Queens Park Rangers)
Sandro is a player in similar mould to former Arsenal star Edu in that he arrived at Spurs without much reputation or expectation on his shoulders, but emerged as a leading light for the club superseding more illustrious peers in the process. He spent four happy seasons at White Hart Lane – including participation in the Champions League – and became a fans’ favourite thanks to his tough tackling and never-say-die attitude. Reunited with former Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp this past summer when surprisingly being allowed to leave for newly-promoted QPR.

2. Gilberto Silva (Arsenal)
Another defensive central midfielder who thrived in north London, Gilberto Silva helped Arsenal to great success throughout the majority of his six-year association with the Gunners. Another member of the ‘Invincibles’ side that went unbeaten for the entire 2003-04 Premier League campaign, Gilberto cemented a legacy at Arsenal as the finest Brazilian to grace the club. His tall frame, languid style and cool exterior under pressure made him a joy to watch. He moved on to Panathinaikos in 2008 before returning to his homeland with Gremio and then former club Atletico Mineiro.

1. Juninho (Middlesbrough)
The diminutive Juninho was one of the very first Brazilian players to arrive in the Premier League along with left-back Branco and, such was his love and affection for Middlesbrough, he eventually racked up three spells on Teesside throughout his much-travelled career. Manager Bryan Robson brought Juninho to the north-east in 1995, with big-name signings Emerson and Fabrizio Ravanelli following a year later. It was a period of outstanding promise for ‘Boro that turned sour when they ran into trouble in 1997, culminating in a devastating relegation from the top-flight following an earlier three-point deduction levied for an unfulfilled fixture. Still, an unbroken bond had been forged between the little magician and the Middlesbrough fans, which led to his return on loan in 1999 and subsequently a permanent move back to the region in 2002. He was a trailblazer for his fellow countrymen; highly skilled, innovative, quick thinking and marvellous to behold when at his very best.

Could Milan move reignite Torres' stalling career?

By David Lee Wheatley (Twitter: @davewh1980)

Fernando Torres said he knew the writing was on the wall the very minute that Diego Costa pitched up at Stamford Bridge from Atletico Madrid in a multi-million pound deal. Despite initial denials to the contrary from Blues boss Jose Mourinho, the Spaniard was on his way out of the door.

The £50million man has suffered one setback after another at Chelsea since his astonishing move from Liverpool in 2011, with his personal form contrasting sharply with that of his time at Anfield.

Torres’ fall from grace has been both spectacular and well-documented, with many an observer proclaiming the end of the Spaniards’ career at the top-level for at least the last couple of seasons. A knee operation while still on Merseyside in January 2010 was widely pinpointed as the moment everything went wrong for the once-prolific forward.

In spite of all the criticism, the Madrid-born striker managed to collect a significant amount of silverware during his stay in west London, playing a major part as Chelsea claimed the UEFA Champions’ League crown in 2012. However, he has been subjected to the usual ‘what a waste of money’ chants right across the country, while also looking a yard off the pace on many occasions. Additionally, his inexplicable loss of goal-scoring prowess has seen him spiral downwards from being classed as one of the deadliest strikers on the planet to becoming a ridiculed figure in some quarters due to several glaring misses in front of goal.

A new dawn is upon him with a two-year loan switch to Serie A and Milan having been completed shortly before the summer transfer window closed. The Rossoneri have been in the market for a new no. 9 since Mario Balotelli jumped ship to join Torres’ former club Liverpool in August and they earmarked El Nino as the perfect person to replace Super Mario at the San Siro. They appear determined to help rekindle the Spain international’s appetite for the game following his hugely frustrating descent from greatness over the last few years.

Whether Torres can return to his sparkling form of pre-2010 at the age of 30 is highly debatable and, quite frankly, unlikely. It seems his best days are firmly behind him and certainly there has been very little evidence to suggest otherwise within the previous four years or so.

Italian football remains notoriously difficult for attacking players to score an abundance of goals due to the defensive nature of the game in the Calcio-mad country. It isn’t quite as hard as perhaps it was in the 80s for example, when it was unusual to see anybody hitting 20-plus strikes in the top-flight, but it’s still hard going for forwards.

Last season’s top-scorer was Ciro Immobile, then of Torino, with 22 league strikes. A total anywhere close to that from Torres in a Milan shirt would represent a very fine campaign for the one-time World Cup winner, especially when considering his meagre contribution of five goals for Chelsea in the Premier League during 2013/14.

It’s been a rough ride since that 2010 surgery took place, which seemingly robbed Torres of his pace and a fair dose of confidence, just when he should have been enjoying the absolute prime of his footballing life. A new beginning at the San Siro will undoubtedly do the player good, with the opportunity to start afresh in a new league, in front of excited fans desperate to witness the return of the real Fernando Torres.  

However, if this latest adventure in northern Italy doesn’t work out well for Torres, then we can surely kiss goodbye to the old Fernando forever.  

Follow me on Twitter @davewh1980

Balotelli and Liverpool the perfect match?

By David Lee Wheatley

Clown Prince Mario Balotelli is set to return to these shores following an 18-month stint back in his homeland with Milan despite categorically stating he ‘hated’ this country’s weather, food and culture when he left Manchester City under a cloud after a troubled three years at the Etihad.

However, Liverpool have agreed a £16m fee with the Rossoneri and Mario himself has already completed both parts of his medical at the Melwood training complex ahead of an expected confirmation of the switch tomorrow.

It’s not quite clear whether he is returning because he misses the standard of competition on offer in the Premier League, or if the reported £120,000 per week wage has turned his head. Whatever the reasons behind his unexpected arrival at Anfield, it represents the last real chance for the Italian striker to finally cement his position as one of the world’s best.

The long list of problems during his last stay in the north-west are well documented and, in his eyes, ancient history. He’ll hope to join the Reds with a clean slate and an opportunity to show his true worth under the intense spotlight that awaits him. Whether that is realistic is another question altogether.

Media and rival fans alike will be waiting patiently for Balotelli to blow up at one point or another; if and when he does, they will pounce on him with a vengeance. He must display a new-found maturity in keeping a level head in the face of such pressure, so that he may be as useful as possible to Liverpool in their quest for success both domestically and in Europe.

Brendan Rodgers has decided to take an apparent gamble by pursuing the transfer of the fiery former Inter man, but he is the right manager to tame the 24-year-old. He appears from the outside to look after his players, backing them to the hilt in public and avoiding confrontation with them whenever possible.

That ‘arm around the shoulder’ approach will no doubt placate Balotelli should he lose focus at any point and will, hopefully for Liverpool’s sake, keep any clashes behind closed doors. The last thing any club needs is for a training ground bust-up - of which Mario has been involved in several - to be splashed all over the back pages of newspapers as occurred between Roberto Mancini and he during their tumultuous working relationship.

Balotelli possesses a huge amount of talent and certainly knows where the goal is, as evidenced by 26 league goals in Serie A over the short time he spent back at the San Siro. Now, it is up to him to channel all energies into performing to the height of his ability on the field without all of the crazy shenanigans that he got up to in Manchester.

Above all, he must realise it’s about time that he grew up and that he must start to act in a professional manner; after all, he’s being paid handsomely to do so.

Should he get a regular gig  for Rodgers’ side once the transfer is completed, then he is likely to benefit greatly from the attack-minded way in which the Merseysiders set about their business. With Sterling one side and Sturridge the other, the Azzurri star will have all of the ammunition he requires to fire Liverpool to glory.

Without doubt, what we can say for sure is that it’ll be interesting!

Twitter: @davewh1980

Transfer window: Manchester United's top targets

 

By David Lee Wheatley

 

 

There’s a massive rebuilding job to do at Manchester United Football Club and hugely experienced Dutchman Louis van Gaal has been entrusted with undertaking the gigantic task ahead. Many current stars will leave through the doors of Old Trafford over the course of this summer, including stalwarts Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand. With turmoil surrounding the club following such an awful season last time out under the doomed leadership of David Moyes and the recent arrival of a new manager with fresh ideas, this will be period of substantial change for the Red Devils. With that in mind, I take a look at some of the new faces we could potentially see in a United shirt come August, as the Premier League heavyweights attempt to mount a challenge for domestic honours that remained way out of their reach throughout the disappointing 2013/14 campaign.

 

ARJEN ROBBEN (Bayern Munich)

Louis van Gaal’s fellow Dutchman Arjen Robben has been earmarked as one of his new club’s priorities during this transfer window and the 30-year-old could be interested in a switch to United in order to play under his current national team boss. Their links go way back, with Van Gaal responsible for taking the flying winger to Bayern back in 2009, as they proceeded to win the Bundesliga title in their first season together in Germany. Robben has continued to blossom in Bavaria on the right-hand side of their potent forward line, creating havoc with his darting runs, accurate crossing and ruthless eye for goal. Having already featured in the Premier League for Chelsea in the past, the ex-Real Madrid man might be tempted to try his luck on these shores once more having won everything possible during his five-year stint in Munich.

LUKE SHAW (Southampton)

At 18, Luke Shaw is the latest in a long line of impressive graduates from the Southampton academy ranks and he’s made a significant impression on their commendable top-half league finish this season, while forcing his way into England’s World Cup squad ahead of the vastly experienced Chelsea wing-back Ashley Cole. It’s been a campaign of several stunning highs for the teenager and could now be capped off nicely with a move to Manchester United for around £25 million, with the player himself said to have already advised friends he is on the verge of joining the Red Devils. Usual full-back mainstay Patrice Evra has not been offered a new contract, while current understudy Alex Buttner fails to inspire much confidence at the very highest level. Therefore, it is imperative van Gaal brings in an energetic replacement as soon as possible, with the marauding Shaw fitting the bill perfectly.

TONI KROOS (Bayern Munich)

£20 million-rated central midfielder Toni Kroos has long been on Manchester United’s wish-list and recent reports suggest an agreement was struck during the Moyes era for the German international to transfer from Bayern during this close-season. Having changed managers in the meantime, it was possible that latest incumbent to the role van Gaal could have vetoed the move, but he evidently has high hopes for the stylish Kroos after apparently giving his blessing to the deal. The 24-year-old is approaching 50 caps for his country and has been regularly involved at club level under both Jupp Heynckes and Pep Guardiola. Additionally, he also played under van Gaal for one term following a year out on loan at Bayer Leverkusen during the Dutch supremo’s first year in the Bayern hot-seat. If media announcements swirling around the player’s future are to be believed, the pair wlll be reunited at United next season.

CESC FABREGAS (Barcelona)

Another long-term target Cesc Fabregas could be brought in as an attack-minded midfield partner for prospective new signing Toni Kroos, should United’s enduring pursuit of the Catalan finally come to fruition this year after their initial courtship came to nothing last summer. David Moyes was desperate to add the former Arsenal star to his ranks throughout the 2013 close-season window, but eventually failed to deliver the Barca star’s signature and ended up settling for a lesser talent in the shape of Belgian Marouane Fellaini. Having flopped badly last season, he could be on the way out to pastures new, while the likes of Fabregas and Kroos could be handed the midfield mantle alongside the reliable contributions of Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick. Fabregas is an intelligent footballer who shone brightly during his time with the Gunners despite some troubles finding his best form at Barcelona; he is eminently capable of reproducing his sparkling form of the past back in the Premier League.

EDINSON CAVANI (Paris Saint-Germain)

The Uruguayan forward was a qualified hit with Napoli, scoring 78 goals in 104 league appearances during a three-year stay at the San Paolo. However, his big-money move to PSG has seen him played out of position as a winger, when he much prefers featuring as a central striker on his own or in tandem with another. Superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic holds that position as a lone striker; promises made to Cavani on signing that he would play alongside the Swede in a potentially explosive strike partnership were broken and the imagined two-pronged attack never materialised. Again, Manchester United have been fervent fans of the long-haired 27-year-old for some time, with strong rumours circulating that Cavani will indeed swap Paris for the north-west of England in search of his favoured ‘number 9’ role.

MARIO MANDZUKIC (Bayern Munich)

Yet another Bayern star linked with a move to the Premier League is Croatian striker Mario Mandzukic, who is rumoured to be unhappy with the stop-start nature of his involvement in the Die Roten starting line-up under Pep Guardiola. He may feel the time is right to experience a new challenge in England, with several top clubs said to be checking on his availability including Arsenal and Chelsea. On top of the fact that Mandzukic has often been forced to play second fiddle to a midfielder such as Thomas Muller taking his spot up-front, he has also witnessed the transfer saga surrounding lethal Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski drag on for months prior to an understanding being found earlier this year. With the Pole likely to become first choice at the Munich giants once his career there begins in earnest, it could spell the end of the ex-Wolfsburg star’s time at the club. However, his goalscoring record with Bayern is mightily impressive and he would be a magnificent asset for United should such a transfer take place.

 

Whoever does come in, they all must be of an extremely high standard in order for the team to dismiss the last campaign as a mere blip and resume their serial position of title challengers, while also regaining a European Champions’ League into the bargain. It’s sure to be a busy summer at Old Trafford, so watch this space!

 

 

Twitter: @davewh1980 



Premier League: Manager of the Year candidates

By David Lee Wheatley

This Premier League campaign has proved to be one of the most exciting in living memory and several managers have each done a wonderful job at their respective clubs. Here are six men who I believe are the most outstanding candidates for the LMA Manager of the Year award:

Brendan Rodgers (Liverpool)

The Northern Irishman has fulfilled the huge potential most observers believed he had within to lead Liverpool on an unexpected title charge this season. However, it appears the Premier League trophy is Manchester City's following the Reds' recent slips at home to Chelsea and away at Crystal Palace, but that doesn't cloud over the wonderful job Rodgers has done at Anfield in guaranteeing the club Champions' League football next term. A top-three finish beckons for a young manager widely regarded as one of the finest in the game and don't bet against another championship challenge during 2014/15.

Roberto Martinez (Everton)

FA Cup winner Martinez left Wigan Athletic following relegation to the Championship, but his exploits in the game's most prestigious domestic knockout competition had many bigger clubs circling for his services. Having lost David Moyes after eleven years at the helm, Everton chairman Bill Kenwright sought to deliver a bright, youthful manager who could harness an attractive style of play while getting results. Therefore, he turned to the Spaniard and he certainly hasn't disappointed; blending both the physical attributes of the Toffees' defensive line with a free-flowing passing game which helped the Merseysiders to fifth spot. Though just missing out on Champions' League qualification, this campaign has illustrated the promise within the Goodison squad under the tutelage of the affable 40-year-old and also dispelled early doubts among the supporters over his credentials to undertake the task in hand.

Mauricio Pochettino (Southampton)

Another season of progress has been enjoyed at St. Mary's under another bright star in the coaching world Mauricio Pochettino, leading to much speculation over his future on the south coast. Eighth-place in the league represents a fine return, while the emergence and steady improvement of the young stars under Pochettino's care has proved his ability to bring the best out of his players. The likes of Lallana, Shaw and Rodriguez have shone throughout the year, with all three pushing incredibly hard for World Cup squad places alongside elder statesman Rickie Lambert. It seems the only way is up should the Saints manage to keep hold of their highly-rated Argentine tactician.

Steve Bruce (Hull City)

Bruce recovered from a rather bruising period in charge of Sunderland to lead Hull City back to the top-flight, before finding mid-table security this term. Moreover, the ex-Manchester United defender has overseen a fine FA Cup run all the way to a final meeting with Arsenal later this month at Wembley. The Northumberland native also guaranteed Europa League football at the KC Stadium through that extraordinary journey to the final, as the Gunners already have Champions' League action to look forward to. Should 50-year-old Bruce leads his side to Cup glory, this campaign will undoubtedly go down as the greatest in the Tigers' entire history.

Gustavo Poyet (Sunderland)

Uruguayan Poyet took over a team languishing at the bottom of the table with one point and seemingly doomed to relegation, but he injected a new lease of life into the squad in taking them all the way to the Capital One Cup final in March and giving a measure of hope to long-suffering fans that there was still a chance of Premier League safety. His side showed decent form following his arrival in October until a lull set in following Wembley defeat at the beginning of March. However, despite odds heavily stacked against them, the Black Cats rescued their season with four wins on the trot to seal security in the top division with one match still to play. In doing so, they became only the second team in the Premier League era to stay up despite sitting bottom of the pile at Christmas. Poyet requested a miracle when his side lay seven points adrift with six games remaining and that is exactly what he got, due in no small part to his sterling efforts.

Tony Pulis (Crystal Palace)

Experienced campaigner Tony Pulis had a similar scenario to Poyet when taking on a mammoth challenge to keep a struggling Crystal Palace in the promised land of the Premier League with only four points on the board when he walked through the door. Assessing the squad in detail and making judgements based on the personnel at his disposal, the Welshman tailored his tactics to suit the players he inherited and the tireless work he's put in has reaped great rewards. The south Londoners shot up the standings thanks to a much more organised approach and are sitting pretty in 11th-place thanks to an unbelievable set of results culminating in a comfortable mid-table position. Pulis deserves huge credit for taking the so-called 'no-hopers' from the abyss of the bottom three to an ultimately fine season in the end.

Twitter: @davewh1980

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

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