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.

 



Time for MLS to shine?

By David Lee Wheatley

The advent of a new MLS franchise based in New York, backed by the combined billions of Manchester City and the Yankees baseball team, would appear to herald a new dawn for soccer in the United States.

New York City FC have set about their early transfer business with great tenacity by sealing the signatures of world stars David Villa and Frank Lampard already, with another six months remaining before pre-season training begins for the 2015 campaign in America. Furthermore, the promise of more to follow shortly has soccer fans across the five boroughs salivating at the prospect of witnessing such big names in action on their own turf.

Additionally, former USA international and current NYCFC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna has secured deals for three home-grown players in the form of goalkeeper Josh Saunders (an American-born Puerto Rican international), midfielder Andrew Jacobson and defender Jeb Brovsky, thus giving the club a pretty handy five-a-side team!

Frantic work behind the scenes will ensure a strong squad is assembled in time for the March 2015 kick-off of the new campaign, when the Bronx-based side make their bow as the 20th franchise competing in the ever-expanding MLS.

An astonishing 109,000 tickets sold out in less than 24 hours for a prestige friendly in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which is due to take place later today between European powerhouses Real Madrid and Manchester United as further evidence of the burgeoning popularity of soccer in a country that seemingly delighted in witnessing the US national side’s exploits during the World Cup this summer.

Fan parks were filled to the brim with supporters willing their team on to success throughout Brazil 2014 and those people - whether new to the sport or established fans - represent a huge target audience pool for the administrators of football in the States to exploit. Add to that the obvious strategy of many top teams from around the globe to claim their own piece of the pie from an emerging market and you have an apparently winning formula for the longevity of the US league.

An ideal opportunity afforded over the last few years to those interested in the game has been the chance to get up-close and personal with the biggest names with friendly matches held across the nation, which will only serve to fuel their passion for football.

Those observers who point out that it’s still foreign footballers in the twilight of their careers joining up with MLS outfits have a point to some extent. However, in the cases of David Villa and Frank Lampard, they both had myriad options elsewhere to continue featuring in what most would deem to be top competitions in Europe and instead settled upon a move to the Big Apple.

There is something special in the process of creation within the country and there is little doubt in my mind that we’ll see a US men’s national side reach the latter stages of a World Cup tournament in the not-too-distant future.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Brazil are the team to beat

By David Lee Wheatley

As hosts of the 2014 World Cup, Brazil hold a distinct advantage in the fact that almost a third of the 19 tournaments which have taken place from the inaugural edition in 1930 onwards have been won by those welcoming the world.

Six national sides have triumphed on home soil in the past, with firstly Uruguay and then Italy claiming the opening two titles. England were next to lift the trophy in front of 96,000 fervent supporters at Wembley Stadium in 1966, the Three Lions’ one and only World Cup final victory. West Germany in ’74 were followed hot on their heels by Argentina in ’78, prior to a 20-year wait before the last occurrence at France ’98.

Additionally, thirteen World Cup-winning teams have prevailed on their own continental patch, with a further two won by South American sides in the familiar surroundings of the Central American sub-continent. Meanwhile, A Seleção beat all-comers during USA ’94, which isn’t completely alien territory for those born and bred in Latin America.

In stark contrast, a solitary squad has managed to buck the trend of failing away from their European continentin the shape of the extraordinary Spaniards in 2010. That recent anomaly offers scant hope to those travelling to Brazil, as it simply confirms the journey to a World Cup final many miles from your own backyard is a mighty difficult road to negotiate.

It’s eminently true that Brazil’s class of 2014 aren’t quite up to the same standard as previous versions and huge expectation has been placed upon former Santos starlet Neymar Jr. to produce the magic required to assist Scolari’s side in their quest for an unprecedented sixth World Cup. However, they possess several talented individuals to supplement the much-heralded Barcelona forward’s significant contribution to the team, so much so that seasoned campaigners Kaka and Robinho weren’t even included on the standby list.

Their projected starting line-up is undoubtedly strong enough to win the tournament, assuming they avoid injuries and suspensions. Goalkeeper Julio Cesar is an experienced performer, while a defence made up of Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, David Luiz and Marcelo excites in an attacking sense, but remains slightly vulnerable when under the cosh.

Ramires and Fernandinho could take up the two defensive midfield positions, screening and covering when David Luiz or the marauding wing-backs surge forwards. Ahead of them should be Willian on the right, Paulinho in the centre and Neymar wide-left, who will be encouraged to link-up with the main striker leading the line in the form of Zenit hit-man Hulk.

Group A won’t hold any fears for the green-and-yellows, with Croatia, Mexico and Cameroon all operating at an inferior level compared to the highly-fancied hosts andsurely fighting it out for second place.

Brazil have the pedigree, talent, historical statistics and a vast nation firmly behind them and it’s hard to argue against their tag of favourites as the start of thecompetition rapidly approaches.

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

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

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