The Return of the Football Season Part 1 - SkyBet League 2 Preview

The football season is back, and to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Football League I will again be previewing all 92 league clubs, predicting their fortunes for the upcoming season. 

2011/2012 League 2 Champions - Gillingham

Team - AFC Wimbledon

Manager - Neal Ardley  

Finish Last Season - 20th 

Jack Midson

Pre-season Activity - So far so good as regards the transfer market for the Dons with star striker Jack Midson still on the books at The Cherry Red Records Stadium. The biggest departure being that of experienced centre half Warren Cummings. Working on a tight budget, Neal Ardley has secured several free transfers including former Bournemouth striker Charlie Sheringham and experienced Barnet defender Barry Fuller. A respectable draw with Charlton was the highlight of the Dons pre-season. 

Key Player - Jack Midson - Top scorer in the last two seasons, Midson will be vital if Wimbledon are to secure their football league status.

My Prediction - 18th - The best they can hope for is survival, and Dons fans would more than likely take that if they were offered it now. The fact that they exist as a football club is the most important statistic for AFC Wimbledon.

Team - Accrington Stanley 

Manager -  James Beattie 

Finish Last Season - 18th

James Beattie

Pre-season Activity - .Lee Molyneux, Amine Linganzi and Romauld Boco have all left Stanley on free transfers. Molyneux will be missed, having scored vital goals to stave off relegation last season. Former Portsmouth striker Danny Webber has been seen as something of a coup for new Stanley manager James Beattie. Other signings include the son of Dean Windass, Josh Windass. A respectable draw with Oldham was preceded by a 4-1 defeat by Everton as Stanley enjoyed a mixed pre-season 

Key Player - Ian Dunbavin - The scouse keeper is a bit of a cult hero at the Crown Ground and will be expected to have another consistent season as Stanley look likely to by fighting relegation again.

My Prediction - 19th - Like Wimbledon, Stanley will be happy to secure their Football League status for another year.

Team - Bristol Rovers

Manager -  John Ward

Finish Last Season - 14th

Ryan Brunt

Pre-season Activity - .John Ward has been able to secure two of last season's loan stars who helped Rovers to a superb second half of the season in Millwall's Steve Mildenhall and Colchester's John-Joe O'Toole. With a squad that is still full of experienced players from the Paul Buckle reign, Ward hasn't been overactive in the transfer market and will be hoping to continue in the same vein from last season   

Key Player - Ryan Brunt - The talented youngster signed on a permanent deal from Stoke at the turn of the year and will be spearheading the Pirates attack.

My Prediction - 4th - John Ward revitalised Rovers last season catapulting them from the relegation places to finish a respectable 14th and I expect them to finish in a play-off place at the very least. They also have one of the largest squads in League 2 which stands them in good stead for a promotion push.

Rory Delap

Team - Burton Albion

Manager - Gary Rowett

Finish Last Season - 4th

Pre-season Activity - The Brewers have lost arguably their two best players in Calvin Zola and Jacques Maghoma to Abrdeen and Sheffield Wednesday respectably. Their departures see a combined 33 goals leave The Pirelli and Gary Rowett has penned his hopes on Rene Howe to fill their boots, he's certainly large enough. Other signings include Rory Delap who continues to steal a living as a professional footballer with his unique throw ins. Pre-season concluded with a tight 1-0 win over Walsall.

Key Player - Alex MacDonald - Having been on loan from Burnley last season, the stocky forward has joined on a permanent deal and is a creative player who likes to drop between midfield and attack and could be very influential for the Brewers this year.

My Prediction - 8th - I wouldn't completely rule out the play-offs, however replicating last seasons heroics will be hard without Zola and Maghoma to rely on.

Team - Bury

Manager - Kevin Blackwell 

Finish Last Season - 22nd (Relegated from League 1)

Ashley Grimes

Pre-season Activity - .All change at Bury over the off-season, with several first teamers departing, such as Efe Sodje, Steven Schumacher, David Worrall, Craig Fagan, David Healy, Joe Skarz, Valery Mezague and Andy Bishop. As a result Kevin Blackwell has been on something of a recruitment drive, the highlights being Nathan Cameron, Ashley Grimes, John Rooney and Richard Hinds. 15 arrivals in total have seen a mixed bag of pre-season results.

Key Player - Ashley Grimes - The former Manchester City academy graduate has scored goals for fun at this level for Lincoln and Rochdale and has always had a certain swagger that suggests he should be playing higher.

My Prediction - 10th - An assault on the play-offs is expected, but with a huge overturn of players it may primarily for Blackwell to find his best eleven.

Yates and Cureton

Team - Cheltenham Town

Manager -  Mark Yates

Finish Last Season - 5th

Pre-season Activity - Mainstays from the last two season's play-off campaigns Marlon Pack and Kaid Mohamed have both departed Whaddon Road, along with former West Brom and Birmingham midfielder Darren Carter. As far as transfers in, Jamie Cureton at 38 years of age is League 2's Kevin Phillips and is superb business on a free. Ashley Vincent has returned to the Robins from Port Vale and will be looking to replicate the promotion he acheived with Vale last season. Another great bit of business is the signing of Shrewsbury captain Matt Richards, again on a free. They rounded off pre-season with a 3-1 loss to Kidderminster.

Key Player - Ashley Vincent - He was outstanding for Vale last season and is another player who could perform at a higher level.

My Prediction - 1st - Third times the charm for Town, good signings and Mark Yates will be determined as ever to get out of League 2. 

Team - Chesterfield

Manager -  Paul Cook

Finish Last Season - 8th

Marc Richards

Pre-season Activity - The best business done so far in League 2 has to be The Spireites, with the stand out signings being former Huddersfield and Swindon winger Gary Roberts and Blackpool defender Ian Evatt. Others include promising Port Vale youngster Sam Morsy and Hibs forward Eoin Doyle. Pre-season has also been successful for Cook's men, with a win over Huddersfield and draws with Forest and Wednesday. 

Key Player - Marc Richards - With all the new signings I've chosen a proven goalscorer at this level. With the service he could get 30 plus goals. 

My Prediction -  2nd - Cook has put together a superb squad, the only question is of his experience and whether he can take this squad to promotion.

Rhys Murphy

Team - Dagenham and Redbridge

Manager -  Wayne Burnett

Finish Last Season - 22nd

Pre-season Activity - .Former Arsenal youngster Rhys Murphy has joined on a free from Telstar and former Birmingham and Torquay centre half Brian Saah has signed after impressing on trial. The biggest departure has been that of centre forward Sam Williams. The Daggers pre-season ended with two defeats to Charlton and Luton Town.

Key Player - Rhys Murphy - The 22 year old will be relied upon for goals as a very inexperienced squad look set to face relegation.

My Prediction - 23rd - Their squad is by far one of the weakest in the division and having only just avoided relegation last term another season of struggle is on the cards.

Team - Exeter City

Manager -  Paul Tisdale

Finish Last Season - 10th

Sam Parkin

Pre-season Activity - Its a case of one in one out in terms of transfer news for the Grecians as top scorer Jamie Cureton has left for Cheltenham and the former Swindon, Ipswich and St Mirren striker Sam Parkin has made the move down south. With Tisdale consistently being linked with other jobs a season of uncertainty appears to be on the cards.

Key Player - Sam Parkin - The big man has scored goals at this level and higher before, will he be able to replicate it, in my opinion it could go either way for the 32 year old.

My Prediction - 13th - The loss of Cureton is a big one and with basically the same squad from last season, mid-table mediocrity beckons.

Jeff Hughes

Team - Fleetwood Town

Manager - Graham Alexander

Finish Last Season - 13th

Pre-season Activity - Another club who embarked on a recruitment drive at the beginning of the summer and have signed some decent players. Influential midfielders Steven Schumacher and Jeff Hughes have joined, having played in League 1 last season. They have added experience in defence in the form of Stevenage captain Mark Roberts, Southend's Ryan Cresswell and former Manchester City full back Stephen Jordan. The highlight of pre-season was the demolition of Preston in Nathan Pond's testimonial game.

Key Player - Jeff Hughes - Scored vital goals for Notts County last season and I was surprised he wasn't picked up by another league 1 club.

My Prediction - 5th - Under the stewardship of Graham Alexander, who is one of the brightest young managers in the Football League, Fleetwood will almost definitely make the play-offs and I wouldn't rule out automatic promotion. They have tremendous depth across the squad.

Colin Cooper

Team - Hartlepool

Manager - Colin Cooper

Finish Last Season - 23rd (Relegated from League 1)

Pre-season Activity - .The most recent singing is that of former Nottingham Forest youngster Nialle Rodney, who played under Cooper at Bradford City. Mr Hartlepool Ritchie Humphreys has left the club after numerous years of service joining Chesterfield. Another departure is that of 27 year old left back Evan Horwood, who has signed for Tranmere Rovers

Key Player - Simon Walton - The former Plymouth man is a classy midfielder and a lot of Pools play will go through him.

My Prediction - 9th - The aim will be play-offs at a minimum, however I feel that having retained many of the team that lost for fun last term, that a consistent winning mentality may be hard to build

John McCombe

Team - Mansfield

Manager - Paul Cox

Finish Last Season - Promoted from the Conference

Pre-season Activity - Birmingham were in early to sign Matt Green from the Stags, who will be missed having scored 56 goals in 92 games in their run to the football league. The best arrival at Field Mill is that of Port Vale centre half John McCombe, having been promoted with Vale last season, his experience will be vital. 

Key Player - John McCombe - I'm surprised that Vale let him go to be quite honest, his credentials at this level speak for themselves and he will be key to Mansfield's survival in this league.

My Prediction - 20th - I wouldn't be surprised if they finished mid-table but such is the quality of teams in this league, just outside the relegation positions is where I expect them to be at the end of the season.

Kevin Ellison

Team - Morecambe

Manager - Jim Bentley

Finish Last Season - 16th

Pre-season Activity - The Bury duo of Mark Hughes and Marcus Marshall alongside Bolton youngster Jack Sampson are the stand out signings as Jim Bentley tries to build on last seasons comfortable 16th place finish. Promising centre forward Jordan Burrow has joined Stevenage, with Bentley managing to hold onto the majority of last seasons squad. Pre-season saw the Shrimpers lose to Wigan, Motherwell and Middlesbrough. 

Key Player - Kevin Ellison - The 34 year old seems to be maturing with age and with financial restraints preventing the club from signing Danny Carlton, Ellison will again be looked on to provide goals from out wide.

My Prediction - 22nd - Morecambe are always punching above their weight at this level of football and a relegation dogfight beckons.

Chris Zebroski

Team - Newport County

Manager -  Justin Edinburgh

Finish Last Season - Promoted from the Conference

Pre-season Activity - Former Torquay and Cheltenham wide man Chris Zebroski has joined the Welsh side, also moving are the Oxford United pair Harry Worely and Adam Chapman. Justin Edinburgh has so far been able to hang onto his squad from last season. An emphatic 5-2 victory of an Aston Villa XI rounded off an encouraging pre-season for the Exiles

Key Player - Chris Zebroski - It didn't really work out for the forward at Cheltenham, but a consistent run of games and Newport could have one of League 2's best players on their hands.

My Prediction - 21st - Their infancy at this level has seen many tipping them for a straight return to the conference, although I predict a relegation battle they have a good team spirit from last season and that could make all the difference.

Team - Northampton Town

Manager - Aidy Boothroyd

Finish Last Season - 6th

ROD

Pre-season Activity - Despite admitting to having to lower the wage bill, Boothroyd has done good business. He has secured the much famed Bradford keeper Matt Duke, central midfielders Gary Deegan, Darren Carter and left winger Ian Morris. This cutting of the wage bill saw Bayo Akinfenwa depart for Gillingham and it will be interesting to see how they fare without the beast in their ranks. 

Key Player - Roy O'Donovan - A big season is expected of the Irishman, having promised so much in his career and not delivering as yet.

My Prediction - 7th - It will be tight but I expect Town to make the play-offs, by if nothing else Aidy's sheer determination to get them over the line and try to avenge last seasons disaster in the Play-off final at Wembley. 

Team - Oxford United 

Manager - Chris Wilder

Finish Last Season - 9th

James Constable

Pre-season Activity - The big transfer news in Oxfordshire was that of former Reading and Stoke centre forward Dave Kitson, who with the right service should score for fun in this league. However there have been many departures too, including Liam Davis, Tom Craddock, Simon Heslop and Jon-Paul Pittman. A draw with Birmingham was followed by defeat to Oxford City during pre-season.

Key Player - James Constable - Despite Kitsons arrival, Constable remains the top forward at the Kassam and starts this season in search of the all time goal scoring record for the U's

My Prediction - 14th - Like several teams I've placed in mid table, a run for the play-offs is not out of the question, but a good start is imperative.

Team - Plymouth Argyle

Manager - John Sheridan 

Marvin Morgan

Finish Last Season - 21st

Pre-season Activity - Forwards Reuben Reid and Marvin Morgan make for an interesting partnership to say the least. They have been joined by the former Watford and Yeovil midfielder Dominic Blizzard. Sheridan has released the deadwood from the squad such as the hapless Warren Feeney. Drawing with MK Dons was the highlight of a mixed pre-season which saw Argyle lose to non-league Bideford

Key Player - Marvin Morgan - He scored 11 goals in Shrewsbury's promotion season a few years back, and he'll be expected to do the same here.

My Prediction - 16th - Argyle fans will just be happy that they have a club to support, an improvement on last season is expected 

Simon Ferry

Team - Portsmouth 

Manager - Guy Whittingham 

Finish Last Season - 24th (Relegated from League 1)

Pre-season Activity - A monumental amount of players have arrived at Fratton Park, with the majority of the players in their mid twenties it is fair to say that this is a team of players that have yet to fulfill their potential. Players such as Andy Barcham formerly of Spurs and Simon Ferry formerly of Celtic. The only question that remains is whether or not young star Jed Wallace will remain at the club having been touted by a number of clubs.

Key Player - Patrick Agyemang - The Ghanaian has bags of experience and has scored goals throughout his career, one last chance of glory at Pompey beckons 

My Prediction - 17th - A big turnover of players combined with an inexperienced manager doesn't suggest play-offs, which is what the Pompey fans are predicting. For me survival is imperative.

Team - Rochdale

Manager - Keith Hill

Finish Last Season - 12th

Keith Hill

Pre-season Activity - Bobby Grant and Jason Kennedy are the highest profile names to leave Spotland this summer, with Keith Hill also strengthening in a number of areas. One of his favourite players Matt Done, has again joined up with him having been released from Barnsley. Draws with both Blackburn and Preston will give the Dale fans hope for the coming season. 

Key Player - Ian Henderson - The former Colchester man is a clever player who should contribute both goals and assists at this level.

My Prediction - 11th - With Hill back at the helm a lot of Dale fans are predicting play-offs, however they say never go back and perhaps getting Dale out of this division for a second time might be too hard a task.

Matt Sparrow

Team - Scunthorpe United

Manager -  Brian Laws

Finish Last Season - 21st (Relegated from League 1)

Pre-season Activity - The recapturing of legend Matt Sparrow, a scorer in their 2009 play-off win over Millwall was a shrewd move from Laws who is still rebuilding his reputation as a manger. Other signings include veteran forward Deon Burton, who proved last season he could still perform at this level following promotion with Gillingham. Another veteran forward signed by Laws is that of Chris Iwelumo, the big Scot has moved from club to club in the last three years so some consistent game time could see him replicate his Colchester United form. One big loss from last season is that of winger Mark Duffy who has joined Doncaster Rovers. 

Key Player - Matt Sparrow - An influential player who showed his footballing pedigree at Brighton, could see a decent contribution of goals as well.

My Prediction - 3rd - Another combination of good signings and a great depth of squad should see the Iron bounce straight back.

Team - Southend United

Manager - Phil Brown

Finish Last Season - 11th

Fat Fred

Pre-season Activity - Gavin Tomlin and Ryan Cresswell have both moved onto pastures new, with erratic forward Bilel Mohsni moving to Rangers. Phil Brown has made his frustrations about the transfer policy known, with only a few free transfers coming in.

Key Player - Freddy Eastwood - Fat Fred has (or should that be had) all the ability in the world and should be scoring 25 plus goals at this level, perhaps Brown can get him back to the level that Southend fans remember.

My Prediction - 8th - A definite challenge for the play-offs is on the cards, and with Brown wanting to play a better style of football a positive season looks on the cards at Roots Hall.

Callum Ball

Team - Torquay United

Manager - Alan Knill

Finish Last Season - 19th

Pre-season Activity - Alan Knill has made some shrewd signings so far this summer, the return of fans favourite Elliot Benyon alongside forwards Callum Ball and Karl Hawley, gives the Gulls an imposing front line. This is all to make up for the loss of Rene Howe, with Ball specially suited to replace Howe (In terms of waistline anyway). Pre-season saw 1-0 victories over Hereford and Weston Super Mare. 

Key Player - Karl Hawley - Another player who has played and scored at a higher level.

My Prediction - 15th - Normally play-off certainties, however the majority of that play-off final team have now moved on, as the Gulls embark on a period of transition.

Team - Wycombe Wanderers 

Manager - Gareth Ainsworth

Finish Last Season - 15th

Gareth Ainsworth

Pre-season Activity - The return of Jon-Paul Pittman to Adams Park has been welcomed by the fans having scored 14 goals in 77 games for them previously. Winger Joel Grant has left for Championship new boys Yeovil. Wycombe impressed many during pre-season with a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa

Key Player - Dean Morgan - The pacy forward will be expected to at least break into double figures this term.

My Prediction - 12th - Ainsworth is still learning the managerial ropes, having only retired last season but with a mixture of youth and experience should a comfortable mid table finish.

Richard Cresswell

Team - York City

Manager - Nigel Worthington

Finish Last Season - 17th

Pre-season Activity - .35 year old centre forward Richard Cresswell is expected to lead the line for Worthington's men. Other signings include Gillingham midfielder Lewis Montrose and Torquay forward Ryan Jarvis. Leaving the Minstermen is the talented central midfielder Matty Blair, which is a big loss. An impressive pre-season saw City draw with Sheffield United, Huddersfield, Leicester City and Blackpool

Key Player - Richard Cresswell - The former Preston and Stoke forwards experience will by key if they are to survive.

My Prediction - 24th - Rock bottom for the Minstermen, who in my opinion have the weakest squad in the league, despite this I will say it will be as tight as last season at the bottom. 

Season Bets

Top Scorer - Jamie Cureton 20/1 Sky Bet
Promotion -  Cheltenham 9/2 Sky Bet
Relegation - York City 9/1 Sky Bet

Monday's Rumour Mill

Premier League

One of the Bender boys

As the transfer window officially opens for business today, many clubs are completing deals they hope will help them maintain their Premier league status, Norwich for example have finally signed Sporting Lisbon striker Ricky Van Wolfswinkel supposedly to replace the ageing Grant Holt. In contrast Tottenham are looking past the immediate future, with the apparent signing of two of Croatia’s brightest youngsters; Tin Jedvaj and Alen Halilovic. The deal could be worth up to €20 million according to Dinamo Zagreb Club President Mirko Barisic and this could turn out to be something of a coup for Spurs, beating amongst others, Manchester City to the duos signatures. Rumours have also surfaced today that Andre Villas Boas has telephoned want away Barca striker David Villa to try and persuade the Spanish international to move to White Hart Lane. Spurs are in desperate need of another centre forward with Jermaine Defoe the only reliable front man at the Lane. It is being reported that the other team in North London have bid £23 million for Bayer Leverkusen’s Lars Bender, however Arsenal’s bid has been answered with a categorical no, with Leverkusen stating there is no option of negotiation

Yohan Cabaye

It is looking increasingly likely that Newcastle’s star midfielder Yohan Cabaye will leave the North East this summer. PSG are on the verge of confirming their interest in the Frenchman by bidding £20 million, with Newcastle looking powerless to stand in Cabaye’s way, the lure of Champions League football to mighty for the former Lille man to turn down. In my opinion Cabaye’s performances tailed off poorly towards the end of last season, seemingly frustrated with the extra physical attention he was getting from opposition players and perhaps his game may be better suited to Ligue 1.

Better than League One #1

Manchester United look in pole position to make a move for Benfica centre half Ezequiel Garay. The former Real Madrid player was in fine form for Benfica last season, influential in their run to the Europa League Final. Fulham are edging closer to wrapping up a deal for Wolves’s powerful forward Bakary Sako, with the Frenchman pleading with the hierarchy at Molineux to allow him to enter talks with Martin Jol. Following his release from Aston Villa, centre half Richard Dunne is attracting interest from Hull City as they look to add Premier League experience to their squad.

The Football League

Better than League One #2

Former England and Liverpool keeper Scott Carson looks set to return to English football with Wigan. The 27 year old has been plying his trade in Turkey with Bursaspor, but like many British players who make the move abroad he now wants to return for family reasons. Middlesbrough have today signed 31 year old central midfielder Dean Whitehead from Stoke, this is the second time Whitehead has played in the North East having previously been captain at Sunderland. With both Wolves and Blackburn interested it now appears that Leeds have signed Crewe’s captain Luke Murphy on a three year deal with Crewe receiving £1 million. Bristol City have revealed they have already fended off two offers for wide man Albert Adomah, however it is a case of when rather than if the Ghanaian leaves Ashton Gate.

Rest of the World

Adam Maher 

One time Arsenal target Younes Belhanda has joined Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kiev, strangely the contact length and fee have yet to be revealed. One of the brightest youngsters in Holland has joined one of the biggest clubs in Holland, with Adam Maher joining PSV from AZ Alkmaar. Having already gained four caps for Holland he will certainly be one to watch at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. 

Friday's Rumour Mill

Premier League

Spurs's New Midfield Maestro

The standing of Tottenham Hotspur as a football club and Gareth Bale as a player have risen substantially over the last three seasons and both have a lot to thank each other for, Spurs in hiring Harry Redknapp provided Bale with a manager who got the best out of him and Bale’s performances on the pitch have seen Spurs go from mid-table mediocrity to Champions League chasers. This dream partnership has today been given the biggest hint that it will continue on for another year, with impending signing Paulinho claiming he has been assured that the Welshman will not be departing White Hart Lane. As for Paulinho himself, he has demonstrated his abilities for Brazil this summer and should fit in nicely next to Sandro in the Spurs midfield, his imminent arrival does however raise questions about the future of Scott Parker in North London.

Good enough for City?

As I reported on Wednesday Carlos Tevez has departed for Turin, City however have wasted no time in drawing up targets to replace the Argentinian. Top of the list is apparently German international Mario Gomez, having fallen out of favour last season at Munich with Mario Mandzukic preferred by Jupp Heynckes, it remains to be seen whether incoming manager Pep Guardiola will require the services of the big centre forward. Others on City’s radar include West Ham target Alvaro Negredo, Roma’s Pablo Osvaldo and Benfica’s Oscar Cardozo. It may be the case that two of these prospective four arrive at the Etihad with Edin Dzeko rumoured to be attracting interest from Germany. For me City need to go bigger than this list of strikers if they want to compete in Europe, a Lewandowski or Benzema perhaps.

Andrey Arshavin

The rest of the Premier League has well and truly kicked into gear on the transfer front. Yesterday saw Andrey Arshavin return to Zenit on a free transfer, the Russian unplayable in his first two seasons in England soured his reputation somewhat in his last two, failing to adjust his playing style to accommodate his loss of pace. Swansea have added another Spaniard to their ranks, with 21 year old centre back Jordi Amat joining from Espanyol, making the departure of club captain Ashley Williams to Arsenal seem more feasible. Sunderland are interested in Gino Peruzzi of Velez Sarsfield and Arsenal’s Vito Mannone with Paulo Di Canio looking to spend the money from Simon Mignolet's departure. Liverpool are monitoring Mamadou Sakho’s situation at PSG, with the French centre back stalling on a new contract. The new boys in the Premier League are continuing to bolster their squads for the new season, with Crystal Palace having agreed a fee for Peterborough’s Dwight Gayle and Hull completing the permanent signing of Sunderland’s Ahmed Elmohamady.

Football League

Murphy's screamer in the JPT final 

Harry Redknapp made his first signing of what should be a busy summer at Loftus Road and if they continue to be of the calibre of Newcastle’s Danny Simpson then a return to the top flight may beckon. Millwall have today re-signed striker Steve Morison on a season long loan from Leeds, his goal scoring record at the New Den saw him gain a move to Premier League Norwich, but after a tempestuous stint in Norfolk he finds himself returning to East London. Blackpool’s Ludovic Sylvestre has joined Turkish outfit Rizespor having rejected the advances of several English clubs. Blackburn appear to have sealed the signinature of Crewe’s talented midfielder Luke Murphy, another product of their esteemed academy. In League one Colchester have acquired the services of Arsenal youngster Sanchez Watt on a free transfer, Watt has the ability to play at a higher level but needs to produce on a regular basis.

Rest of the World

Isco

Yesterday saw Spanish playmaker Isco complete a £23 million move to Real Madrid, a boyhood Barca fan Real’s board of directors have done well to secure his services. Now to a rarity in Ligue 1, a transfer that doesn’t involve PSG or Monaco as Dimitri Payet has completed a move from Lille to Marseille. A clever wide man, Payet has been capped by five times by France and Marseille hope he will add some much needed strength to their attack. Another Frenchman Frank Ribery, has put pen to paper on a new four year deal at Bayern Munich showing that even at the age of 30 he is at the forefront of Pep Guardiola’s plans. Big Bosnian centre half Emir Spahic has joined Bayer Leverkusen from Sevilla after two years in Andalusia.

Wednesday's Rumour Mill

Premier League

Carlos Tevez

In the last 24 hours the Premier League appears to have lost one of its greatest imports, the enigma that is Carlos Tevez.  A fee in the region of £12 million has been agreed between Manchester City and Juventus for the former Boca Juniors, West Ham and Manchester United forward. Now £12 million may seem to undervalue Tevez when the likes of Cavani are being quoted at £50 odd million, however at 29 Tevez’s value in reality will only depreciate from here on in and with incoming boss Pellegrini wanting to make his mark in Manchester, getting rid of the argumentative Argentinian would appear to be a shrewd move. As for the buyers, Juventus are in my opinion in dire need of a world class centre forward if they want to mount a serious challenge for the Champions League. With Buffon behind a solid back four, Pirlo and Marchisio running the midfield all the Old Lady need is an out an out striker as both Giovinco and Vucinic like to play deeper and wider. This is a deal that perfectly fits all parties concerned and Juve fans will be hoping Tevez can have the same influential effect that his former Manchester City teammate Mario Balotelli has had at A.C Milan.

Simon Mignolet

Another day another Liverpool signing, this time its Sunderland’s first choice keeper Simon Mignolet for £9 million. Rodgers seems pleased with his business saying, "I am delighted that we have been able to sign one of the top goalkeepers in the Barclays Premier League”, however despite the undoubted ability of Mignolet which has seen him keep Thibaut Courtois out of the Belgian National team, I believe Mr Rodgers you’ve got the wrong Sunderland goalkeeper. You should in fact of signed Kieran Westwood, ask any Carlisle and Coventry fans (me included) about Westwood and you will only get rave reviews of Ireland’s number one. Never mind though as Westwood will showcase his credentials this season as Sunderland’s new first choice stopper and this time next year it could well be he who moves to one of the Premier Leagues elite. Rodgers recruitment drive shows no sign of stopping as the move for Armenian Henrikh Mkhitaryan appears to be back on as the player failed to show up to Donetsk’s pre-season training camp. Another target for the reds is Barcelona youngster Gerard Deulofeu who is interesting Rodgers and with 27 goals in 68 games for Barca B from out wide you can certainly see why.

Keisuke Honda

If you have been watching the Confederations Cup you would have admired the football played by the Japanese and one player in particular, Keisuke Honda. The CSKA attacking midfielder has a sensational passing range and an abnormal balance which allows him to use both feet to bamboozle defenders, his performances have not gone unnoticed as Roberto Martinez is rumoured to be very interested in the player. The fact that he is on a free falls beautifully into line with Bill Kenwright’s transfer policy at Goodison Park, however if Everton want to secure his signature they will have to move fast as many of Europe’s elite are interested in the 27 year old.

The Football League

Northern Ireland international Grigg

Good news in Yorkshire this morning as Barnsley have secured the future of their captain and influential keeper Luke Steele, the former Manchester United youngster has signed a 2 year extension. For another Football League club the future of their captain is less than clear, Peterborough’s Tommy Rowe is the subject of interest from Leeds but no bid has been made according to Posh director of Football Barry Fry. From a future Leeds left back to one of their greatest Ian Harte, who has received offers from both Bournemouth and Middlesbrough with the latter most likely to secure his services. One of League One’s hottest properties, Walsall’s Will Grigg looks set to move south and link up with losing play-off finalists Brentford. On a free this is a superb signing for Uwe Rosler, but a bitter blow for the Saddlers who have already lost Febian Brandy to Sheffield United.

Rest of the World

Former Lyon forward Belfodil

With the departure of Andrea Stramaccioni as manager, Inter Milan are pushing forward with an overhaul of their mismatch squad which has never recovered from the departure of Jose Mourinho in 2011. Today they are close to securing the services of Parma’s Ishak Belfodil in one of Italy’s notorious co-ownership deals, with the potential of Antonio Cassano moving in the opposite direction. Other rumours have been circulating that Andrea Ranocchia has been the subject of an offer from a Russian club and the much underrated Samir Handanovic has been interesting Barcelona. The departure of Ranocchia would add some substance to rumours linking Micah Richards with the Nerazzurri

Tuesday's Rumour Mill

Throughout the summer I'll be keeping an eye on all the transfer rumours, gossip and general rubbish that appears at this time of year, whilst giving my own opinion on the business done. The day’s news will be accumulated and posted here before 12pm, with any updates posted throughout the day.

Premier League

Edinson Cavani

If you witnessed the Confederations Cup game between Uruguay and Nigeria a few nights back, if asked which of the players on the pitch would be subject to a £50 million bid from Manchester United, not many would have said Edinson Cavani. With several heavy touches, glaring misses and appearing to struggle to link up with Luis Suarez effectively Cavani looked miles away from the player who has scored 78 goals over the last three seasons for Napoli. However David Moyes is keen to acquire the forward as he attempts to sustain United's ruling of the English top flight, these rumours will again raise questions over Wayne Rooney's future at Old Trafford which is less than clear. With Arsenal 'interested' in the England forward and having already expressed his desire to leave, any sale of Rooney would be sure to cause something of a transfer merry-go-round the like of which football has never seen. 

...to another

From one flop...

With news coming out today that Shakhtar Donetsk's Henrikh Mkhitaryan isn't interested in a move to Liverpool, having posted on his Facebook page that any information of a proposed transfer is false, Rodgers and co have moved quickly onto their next target former Juventus flop Eljero Elia who is currently at Werder Bremen. The Dutch international is still only 26 and having come to prominence in the Bundesliga perhaps he will be more accustomed to the fast pace of the Premier League as opposed to the measured pace of Serie A. With the second coming of Joe Kinnear as director of football, Geordies across the world have been in mourning. However Geordies may seek solace in the fact that the first act of 'Fat Joe' appears to be the signing of Vitesse Arnhem striker Wilfried Bony, Kinnear saw Bony's stats of 46 goals in 65 games and made the decision only a man with his years of experience in the game could to move for the Ivory Coast international. I would stay well away from Bony as for every Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Luis Suarez the Eredivisie produces there are the likes of Mateja Kezman and Alfonso Alves who score countless goals in Holland and fail to replicate their form elsewhere.

Wanyama

Last season was possibly the best in the career of Celtic's Victor Wanyama, the highlight being that header against Barcelona in the Champions League. His form has caused interest from numerous European clubs, having turned down the terms being offered by Southampton it now looks odds on for the Kenyan to sign for newly promoted Cardiff City. The Welsh clubs Malaysian owners are looking to flex their financial muscle having already agreed terms with Tom Ince, the signing of Wanyama would in my opinion take them a step further to securing their survival without a ball being kicked. Rumours are also circulating today that England U21 international Nathan Redmond has been subject to two bids from Premier League clubs, Redmond was one of the bright sparks for England this summer and any move would cost in the region of £2 million.

The Football League

This goal versus the Baggies
seems a long time ago now

Again the demise of Wolves grabs the headlines in the Football League with new gaffer Kenny Jackett placing club captain Karl Henry, Stephan Ward, Roger Johnson and Jamie O'Hara on the transfer list. O'Hara, signed for 3.5 million from Spurs missed the majority of last season through injury and despite his clear ability Wolves are struggling to shift the former Premier league player. With many teams reporting back for pre-season this week I expect the transfers to come thick and fast in the coming days as managers gauge the strengths of their squads.

Rest of the World

Pjanic of Roma

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has been a busy man so far today, ruling out a move for Carlos Tevez and stating that despite interest from Spain Riccardo Montilivo is not for sale. Another person to play down speculation is Roma's Bosnian midfielder Miralem Pjanic who has ruled out any potential move to Borussia Dortmund, the Germans would see him as an ideal replacement for Mario Gotze

Monday's Rumour Mill

Throughout the summer I'll be keeping an eye on all the transfer rumours, gossip and general rubbish that appears at this time of year, whilst giving my own opinion on the business done. The day’s news will be accumulated and posted here before 12pm, with any updates posted throughout the day.

Premier League 

Someone is pleased with themselves

As the days have passed since the end of the 2012/2013 season, all discussion about Arsenal has revolved around the words 'Wenger' and 'money' and it appears that the stubborn Frenchman is finally going to concede defeat in trying to produce title winning teams with products of the academy. The first ready-made star Wenger has reluctantly delved into his purse for looks to be Argentinian forward Gonzalo Higuain, with the players father stating today that, “Nothing has yet been signed but I assure you the negotiations between the clubs are at an advanced stage". The price appears to be set at £22 million, which would smash Arsenal's transfer record currently set at £15 million for the purchase of Andrey Arshavin who is reportedly interested in a return to Zenit St Petersburg. For me the signing of Higuain is one small step in Arsenal be able to again compete with the likes of United, City and Chelsea, nevertheless this move must be followed by several more transfers both in and out of the Emirates.

Thiago Alcantara

As for the Champions Manchester United, their potential move for Spanish U21 star Thiago Alcantara has been dealt both a blow and a boost in the same day. What seems a common occurrence these days the player’s father has commented on the future of the Barcelona man, saying he should chose United ahead of their European counterparts. However Barcelona have today suggested they are considering offering Thiago a new contract, perhaps his performance in the U21 European Championship Final has persuaded them to keep him on. They shouldn't need persuading, in my opinion he has the potential to be one of the world's greatest midfielders, he has a superb eye for a pass, he combines the traits of both attacking and defensive midfielders which is shown through his ability to take a game by the scruff of the neck and dictate. Michael Carrick would appreciate having a more than competent partner alongside him.

Value for Money: Curtis Davies

The future of Wigan’s Arouna Kone appears to lie at either Everton or Norwich, with the Latics looking for £5 million for the Ivory Coast forward. I would expect Kone to move to Goodison Park with neither Anichebe nor Jelavic setting the world alight last season and with Norwich having already secured the signing of Dutchman Ricky Van Wolfswinkel. New boys Hull are close to concluding a great bit of business for Birmingham’s Curtis Davies, the 28 year old has been constant in the Blues team for the last two seasons and £2.3 million for one of the best centre halves outside the Premier League is outstanding value for money. Another fantastic bit of business close to being completed by a newly promoted side is the signing of Thomas Ince by Cardiff, the fee agreed must be north of at least £5 million for a player rumoured to be close to an England call up  

The Football League

Maghoma came through the youth ranks at Spurs

League one’s newest fallen giant Wolves are close to agreeing a deal for Bolton and Wales international Sam Ricketts, with their back four being somewhat abysmal over the past two seasons this could be just what they need. Elsewhere in League one veteran Swindon centre half Darren Ward looks set to join Uwe Rosler’s Brentford. Time is also running out for Coventry, whose attempt to sign Burton winger Jacques Maghoma is under threat with several league one clubs interested in the Frenchman.

Rest of the World

Hernanes of Lazio

After his impressive showing in the group stage of the Confederations Cup, Lazio midfielder Hernanes has admitted he would be open to a move to Ligue 1 with PSG. The move would strengthen PSG’s midfield following the retirement of David Beckham as they try to build a team capable of winning the Champions league. Another Brazilian interesting the French giants is David Luiz, the move would make sense as Luiz would be paired with his International partner Thiago Silva. Jose Mourinho may well be behind the move with Luiz’s erratic playing style not exactly being conducive to how Jose sets up his teams.

England Friendlies Review

As the British football season winds down we were treated to a couple of pointless England friendlies, nevertheless it gave the public a chance to gauge what shape Roy Hodgson’s team were in with the World Cup in Brazil just over a year away. 

Shane Long wheels away
after putting the Irish one up

A respectable 80,000 turned out at Wembley to witness the first meeting between England and the Republic of Ireland since 1995. There has been much debate in the Irish media regarding the Republic’s style of play since their pitiful showing at Euro 2012, but it was England’s tactics that sparked discussion between high profile pundits such as Gary Lineker. The Three Lions set up in that formation I like to call ‘just about good enough for League Two’ 4-4-2 and Ireland followed suit, the Irish started quickly and netted on thirteen minutes when man of the match Seamus Coleman crossed for the diminutive Shane Long who rose above the English defence to head home emphatically. England responded ten minutes later when Daniel Sturridge’s cross from the left was met by Frank Lampard on a typical late run into the box, the thirty four year old celebrated signing his one year extension at Chelsea by finding space in the Irish box and slotting past David Forde.  The rest of the game fell into a pattern of long balls from the Irish being recycled by England who lacked a cutting edge and any real fluency to find a winner, with captain for the night Ashley Cole wasting the best chance by firing over from close range following Theo Walcott’s volleyed cross. Lineker summed up the thoughts of many England fans, myself included saying, “Don't like England playing this system. So easy to play against, predictable and dated. It's not about playing in straight lines, it's about playing between the lines. Depth gives flexibility, passing alternatives, creativity”. 

John Barnes celebrates
scoring that goal in 1984

Next up for Hodgson’s men was a trip to Rio de Janeiro and the redeveloped Maracana, the scene of John Barnes wonder dribble and finish that showed the Brazilians how to play the beautiful game. It was however an energetic Brazil side that preceded to give England a lesson in football throughout the first half with Hulk, Neymar and Fred all going close for the home side. Despite deploying the more favoured 4-3-3, England lacked creativity which was personified with Phil Jones appearing in the hole behind Rooney numerous times in the first half. Unlike England the Brazilians had pace on the counter and were effectively pushing full backs Dani Alves and Felipe Luis forward with Chelsea’s David Luiz spraying balls all over the park. 

The Ox equalises

Rooney stuns the Maracana

Yet at half time it remained 0-0 and saw England sporting their new away kit for the first time come out with a rejuvenated spirit, which was inevitably quashed when second half sub Hernanes curled a superb effort which came back off the woodwork for Fred to pounce and volley home. Hodgson having had questions asked of his tactics previously, used all of his managerial nous by bringing on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for Glen Johnson and changing to a 3-5-2 system which saw Michael Carrick sit just in front of the centre halves. This allowed the full backs to push up and Chamberlain to orchestrate the play, which he did to perfection as some clever interplay saw him hit a stinging volley into the bottom left hand corner which stunned the Maracana and showcased to the world one of England’s emerging talents. Then as if to defy logic, Rooney cut in from the left and curled a tremendous effort past Julio Cesar and in doing so sent a message to potential suitors interested in the want away Manchester United star, that he was in fact still a world beater. England were unfortunately brought back down to earth as Paulinho exquisitely volleyed Lucas Moura’s cross past Joe Hart three minutes later. Despite the start, England recovered to secure a respectable draw and Hodgson momentarily answered his critics who still crave a perfect ninety minute performance from the Three Lions.