Considering Liverpool's fine form in recent months, the defeat at the hands of Chelsea in the Champions league on wednesday may be considered by some as a mere blow in their genuine quest for top honours; this season and next. However the nature of the defeat, and the symptoms which induced the loss, suggest that inadequacies which have prevented the reds from challenging for the domestical title in recent years, will continue to obstruct their lofty ambitions.
It is difficult to be too critical of Rafa Benitez's team; they have been magnificent of late, destroying team's in a fashion that would have seemed inconcievable a season or two ago. It is also important to note the stellar performance of the London outfit on Merseyside. Chelsea played a brave and intelligent match with Guus Hiddink outmanouvering his Spanish counterpart at every turn.
However, with the pressure applied after Chelsea's albeit empthatic response courtesey of Carlo Ivanovic, Liverpool's lack of creativity and imagination, in key areas on the pitch, was painfully clear to see.
The basis of Rafa Benitez's blue print for success at Anfield combines defensive solidarity with gritty determination; neither of which have been especially championed amidst the abundance of plaudits Liverpool have recieved in recent weeks. Despite boasting the best goal difference in the league, it is becoming evident that Liverpool no longer have an invincible defensive guard. Martin Skrtel looks less and less like a top professional with each game he plays, and the uncomposed, maligned displays of Jamie Carragher suggest that the years of being a the defensive lynchpin of the Kop may well be catching up with him. The defensive strength synonomous with Benitez's team was again absent in this quarter final; but tellingly, their attacking prowess which has almost magically appeared in the previous dozen games also alluded them, making for distaterously bleak viewing.
Liverpool fans may argue that they did fashion chances in the first half and managed to score a fine goal from open play; but this can be largely attributed to the work their talismanic figure up top. Fernando Torres looked like the only player capable of unlocking the Chelsea defence all game.
Similarly to featured performances previous seasons of benitez's reign, Liverpool players looked uncomfortable in possession against Chelsea, unable to pass and move fluently, lacking confidence it is difficult to question Benitez's u

Weekend Tips; December 19th, 2008

How did I do last week!?

My Picks: Actual Results:

Arsenal 1-3 Middlesboro'; Arsenal 1-1 Middleboro'

Aston Villa 0-0 Bolton; Aston Villa 4-1 Bolton

Liverpool 2-0 Hull; Liverpool 2-2 Hull

Man City 1-0 Everton; Man City 0-1 Everton

Stoke 0-1 Fulham; Stoke 0-0 Fulham

Sunderland 2-0 West Brom; Sunderland 4-0 West Brom

Wigan 1-2 Blackburn; Wigan 3-0 Blackburn

Spurs 0-1 Man Utd; Spurs 0-0 Man Utd

Pompey 2-4 Newcastle; Pompey 0-3 Newcastle

Chelsea 2-0 West Ham; Chelsea 1-1 West Ham

F***ing awful men, another terrible week. Its not been plain sailing so far has it!? It can only get better, keep the faith!


Saturday

Blackburn vs Stoke

Big Sam has landed at Ewood and I expect an immediate impact. Sometimes, as we have seen at Tottenham with Harry Redknapp's arrival, a change in the managerial hot seat can totally revatilise the club; before the manager has lifted a finger.
I dont expect a dramatic turn around in the fortunes at Ewood park; Blackburn will still be fighting against relegation in May because the league is so tight; but things will definately improve.
Stoke have been doggid so far, but they lack quality. Its a perfect opening game for Allardyce. Home win.

Verdict: 2-0


Bolton vs Pompey

Both these teams have been inconsistent this season and seem to be in need of a win every week. And this week is no exception; both teams suffered heavy defeats last Saturday.
This game will be tight, neither Megson or Adams will want to lose this one. Draw.

Verdict: 1-1


Fulham vs Boro

These two teams are experiencing contrasting fortunes; Fulham are without a loss in seven whilst Boro are without a win in five.
Southgate will be hoping to get back to winning ways after a promising start to the season. Hodgson will be asking more of his strikers in order to turn good form into red hot form; a succession of goaless draws could have been much more fruitful.
However I feel the news that Bullard may be shown the door in January will upset the applecart; he is a very popular man at Craven Cottage.
I feel Boro might just sneak this one.

Verdict: 0-1


Hull vs Sunderland

This one will be close; both clubs will be looking to build on positive results last week.
Ricky Sbragia is making a good impression as caretaker on Weirside and I expect another good display here.
I'm still waiting for the Cisse and Jones strike partnership to explode and I think this might be the week.
Hull are looking to extend their unbeaten run to six but I dont see it. Away win.

Verdict: 0-2

West Ham vs Aston Villa

Interesting one this, the difficulty in calling it reflects the competetiveness of the league this year. The Hammers and The Villains lay in 16th and 4th respectively but its sure to be a close tie!
West Ham are starting to play well under Zola, they look comfortable in posession, resolute at the back and are starting to look threatening in attack.
Villa have been impressive all season and are arguably better away from home with their dynamic counter attacks.
However I'm going for a West Ham win here. I feel despite their problems off the pitch their luck is about to change on it. Key players like Parker and Bellamy are starting to impose themselves in matches; I think the East Londoners will start to climb the table.

Verdict: 2-1


Sunday

West Brom vs Man City

City are awful at the moment. They look disjointed, they cant defend and are worse in possession (unless its at the feet opf Robinho). Mark Hughes hasnt spent any of the Arab millions yet and will profess that he hasnt put his imprint on the squad; regardless of that fact, he's still doing a terrible job at the Eastland Club.
I really feel for Mowbray and West Brom. They try and play nice football but they just dont get any luck.
Something has got to give this week, both teams cannot go on without a win. Albion will feel they can get soemthing here; and I think they will.

Verdict: 1-0


Newcastle vs Tottenham

I expect an open game here, like most at St James. Both teams are vulnerable in defence, although Newcastle's is getting better of late, and leak goals. Both teams have other things in common such as fine attacking options. This one promises to be exciting.
Both teams are improving but with Owen in the goals again and Martins in fine form, I think kinnear's men will have the edge.
Tottenham head to the North East with fitness concerns over various key players. A game on Thursday in Europe will not have been ideal for preparation either. Home Win.

Newcastle 3-1 Tottenham


Arsenal vs Liverpool

Liverpool's form concerns me at the moment, they are not playing like title contenders. A victory here would leave the Reds top of the pile for Christmas; a gift that was undoubtedly at the top of Rafa's wish list.
Arsenal are the embodiement of inconsistency; Wenger's rotation policy this season rivals that of Benitez in the early days. However Arsenal on their day are as good as anybody; Chelsea found that out the hard way a few weeks ago.
I expect a solid display from the Gunners but Liverpool will be as efficient and as organised as ever.

Verdict; 1-1


*****Top of the Class******

The favourites let me down last time out; the weekend was a dream for the bookie. Shite for most of us punters!

This week I fancy Boro to get something at Fulham. Betting on Boro +1 Goal on the Handicap, effectively covers the draw and the win. 8/13 with most bookies; well worth inclusion in any coupon your going to do.

I also fancy West ham to beat Villa on home soil, an awesome 11/5 with Skybet. 17/20 (Bluesquare) is a massive price for Blackburn at home to Stoke as well; they have got to win at some point.

And finally, Bolton vs Pourtsmouth has a draw written all over it; 12/5 in most bookies. Nice.

My bet this weekend will be a £2 Yankee (which is a £24 bet in total); this is because I'm largely betting on outsiders (Boro Win, Bolton draw, West Ham win, Blackburn win).
The Yankee consists of six £2 doubles, four £2 trebles and a £2 four fold. Its eleven bets in one.

If all the results come in, drinks are on me over Christmas because I will be rolling in it! Your talking about a couple of grand. But if 2 or 3 results come in, you still win, just a smaller amount. The Yankee really is a fantastic football bet if you fancy outsiders.

Ask a worker for assistance in the bookmakers if you want to put it on.

Good luck again and seasons greetings.

Weeked Tips; December 13th, 2008

Last Weeks Results (My Picks, Actual Results)

Fulham 1-1 Man City, Fulham 1-1 Man City

Arsenal 2-0 Wigan, Arsenal 1-0 Wigan

Blackburn 1-0 Liverpool, Blackburn 1-3 Liverpool

Bolton 0-2 Chelsea, Bolton 0-4 Chelsea

Hull 0-0 Middlesboro', Hull 2-1 Middlesboro'

Newcastle 2-0 Stoke, Newcastle 2-2 Stoke

Man Utd 2-0 Sunderland, Man Utd 1-0 Sunderland

West Brom 2-1 Pompey, West Brom 1-1 Pompey

Everton 1-1 Villa, Everton 2-3 Villa


4 correct picks and 1 perfect score. A few late goals around the country turned a good week into a decent one. Lets go again!

Saturday

Middlesboro vs Arsenal

Its sure to be an entertaining, open game at the Riverside as both teams will try to impose their attractive football upon the opposition.
Boro have been doing okay of late, they were very unlucky last week at Hull, whilst Arsenal's form has been patchy at best. This one is there for the taking, for whoever wants it most.
I think Arsenal will have too much quality here. Boro have injury concerns in defence and will most probably rush Huth and Riggot back into the fold. I expect Arsenal to capitalise.

Verdict: 1-3


Aston Villa vs Bolton

Bolton have always known how to get a point away from home. They are again resillient like when allardyce was at the helm and difficult to play.
If Villa seriously want to penetrate the top four they need to be winning fixtures like this. However without Carew in the starting line-up they may well struggle to break down the door.
I'm predicting a frustrating day for O'Neils men.

Verdict: 0-0


Liverpool vs Hull

Hull are relentless this season. They keep churning the results out when nobody expects them to. However Phil Brown's positive approach away from home will play right into Liverpool's hands.
The Reds have struggled against teams who play with eleven men behind the ball; The Tiger's attacking gameplan will be welcomed by Rafa and his men.

Verdict: 2-0


Man City vs Everton

Everton are seriously handicapped through injury at the moment, especially upfront. Its difficult to see where goals will come from?
However this will be close as Everton rarely give up points easily.
The game will be tight, played largely in midfield. I think City's prowess in attack will just edge it.

Verdict: 1-0


Stoke vs Fulham

Difficult one to predict this, both are enjoying fine form of late and are therefore both due a slip up!
Fulham are pretty much at full strength in comparison to Pulis' weakened squad which may have a bearing on things; especially so considering Rory Delap is expected to be abscent with an injured arm. Hardly suprising!
Stoke have been excellent at home this season whilst Fulham are notoriously poor away from The Cottage; I'm going for a reverse in fortunes here. Away win.

Verdict: 0-1

Sunderland vs West Brom

Sunderland are a better team than the table suggests and deserved a little more faith than ex-manager Roy Keane afforded them. I'm expecting The Black Cats to respond here.
I imagine confidence in The Baggies camp is low right now; they have failed to win numerous games they have dominated. Although the league is close this year, you get the feeling its just not going to be their season.
West Brom have also lost Ishmail Miller to a long term knee injury, and in losing him they have lost their only player who looks likely to score.

Verdict: 2-0


Wigan vs Blackburn

Paul Ince cannot afford to lose this match; and I dont think he will. Despite losing, Rovers showed signs of improvement against Liverpool last week. I expect an equally spirited performance from the Lancashire outfit this week.
Wigan are looking up the league as opposed to down this season, they have a good squad, a good manager and funds. They may even have a cheeky eye on a European place.
However they're going to come up against a difficult Balckburn team desperate for a result here. Away win.

Verdict: 1-2


Spurs vs Man Utd

The outcome of this game depends on the United starting eleven; the champions are sweating over the fitness of important players.
Fully fit, Ferguson and his team would stroll to victory here. Although Spurs have enjoyed two consecutive wins, Redknapp needs to strengthen in all departments if he wants to realistically challenge the likes of Manchester United.
All things considered I think The Red Devils will have enough to get the win here. Although it will be difficult without the likes of Rooney, Berbatov, Evra and Ferdinand, If, they dont make trip.

Verdict: 0-1

Pompey vs Newcastle

Intriguing one this. Both teams are are unbeaten in a few and playing reasonably well; something has got to give.
Newcastle travel poorly, they have won one away fixture in their last nineteen. However I think they will get a result here.
Portsmouth are short in midfield, both Diarra and Diop miss out. They are also leaking goals at home and in Owen and Martins, Newcastle have strikers who will punish sloppy defending. High scoring away win.

Verdict: 2-4

Chelsea vs West ham

What a bad time for The Hammers to face their arch rivals. Things seem to be going from bad to worse for Zola.
The Italian Icon's return to Stamford Bridge should have been the spectacle here, however there are more significant sub plots surrounding this fixture, such as West Ham's financial crisis.
The East Londoners were awful at home last week against Tottenham, there is no evidence to suggest it will be different here, whilst Chelsea recorded a good win in midweek.

Verdict: 2-0


*****Top Of The Class*****

Altough 4 of last weeks 5 top bets were realised, my treble was ruined by a late goal at St James Park. How exactly did Newcastle let that lead slip by the way!? Absolute sickner.

Anyone who backed Anelka to score against his old club with me will have been happy, it was a nap though wasnt it!? I fancy history to repeat itself at the staduim of light with Keiran Richardson scoring anytime against The Baggies. 5/1 with William Hill that one. Beautiful.

There are a couple of bankers on show this week. I fully expect Chelsea, Sunderland, Liverpool and Arsenal to pick up wins. That combination makes for a promising, potentially lucrative 4-fold.

I also Fully expect Blackburn to get something at the JJB, they really cannot afford to lose this game. They are an inviting 4/5 with Stan James. Massive that. Well worth including in anyone's accumalator.

Best of luck folks.

Weekend Tips; December 6th, 2008

Last weeks results

My picks: Actual results:

Villa 1-0 Fulham, Villa 0-0 Fulham

Boro 1-2 Newcastle, Boro 0-0 Newcastle

Stoke 0-1 Hull, Stoke 1-1 Hull

Sunderland 3-0, Bolton Sunderland 1-4 Bolton

Wigan 0-0 West Brom, Wigan 2-1 West Brom

Man City 0-2 Man Utd, Man City 0- 1 Man Utd

Pompey 1-1 Blackburn, Pompey 2-0 Blackburn

Tottenham 2-3 Everton, Tottenham 0-1 Everton

Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal, Chelsea 1-2 Arsenal

Liverpool 2-0 West Ham, Liverpool 0-0 West Ham


Last week I got 2 correct picks and no correct scores. Simply Awful! keep the faith though, its going to be different this week.


Saturday

Fulham vs Man City (12:45)

The days early kick-off sees Mark Hughes' men travel to Craven Cottage which has become somewhat of a fortress for Fulham this season; they have won five of their last seven home games. Roy Hodgson would be stroking his moustache if he had one.
Man City have been consistently inconsistent all season and have been terrible on the road; their one victory coming at Sunderland in August.
Its difficult to predict what City team will show up, especially this week, as the Manchester outfit are sweating over the fitness of key players including Richards and SWP (both sat out of the midweek european tie).
Probably not the best match to include in your coupon but im going for a draw.

Verdict: 1-1


Arsenal vs Wigan

This one will not be straightforward for Arsenal; Steve Bruce will have undoubtedly told his frontmen to ruffle a Gunners defence which counts William Gallas, and possibly Kolo Toure, as absentees. The Arsenal defence is weak at the best of times.
However Arsenal are back in the title race after last week's win at Stamford Bridge and will be up for this one themselves. They cannot afford any more slip ups if they are to challenge for championship honours this season.
It will be a close run affair as Wigan are enjoying afine run of form at the minute but it has to come to an end at some point doesnt it? Home win.

Verdict: 2-0


Blackburn vs Liverpool

Both teams are desperate for a win here although for very different reasons. Underfire Blackburn manager Paul Ince and his team are struggling to get out the relegation zone whilst Liverpool are looking to cement their place at the top after two lacklustre league performances.
On paper Liverpool should win this at a stroll, but my instinct tells me Blackburn will get something. After a succession of nine games without a win they have to win one at some point and Ince will have his men fired up for this as his neck is on the line.
Liverpool have looked pretty average of late; goaless draws at home against Fulham and West ham is not Championship form.
Although an inability to score goals is obviously an issue, Liverpool's biggest problem is that they are not creating opportunities. The balance they seemed to have found earlier in the season seems to have been lost and they now struggle to break down organised defences.
I'm touting Blackburn to nick it; home win.

Verdict: 1-0


Bolton vs Chelsea

Bolton have won four out their last five in the league notching up impressive scalps on their way; that all ends here.
In all honesty, I dont know were the form has come from, Megson hasnt made any monumental changes in tactics or personel. I still expect Bolton to be in the relegation dogfight come May.
Chelsea will have the bit between their teeth at the Reebok, they turned ina poor performance last week against Arsenal and are without a win in three.
This one wont even be close.

Verdict: 0-4


Hull City vs Middlesboro'

I've looked over all the statistics for this one, right through the lot, and I just cant make my mind up.
Hull are due a win, their dry spell is turning into something of a rut.
However Boro have a solid squad and are playing good football this season, and with their big, strong defence, they are also equipped to deal with the physical aspects of Hull's game.
I'm predicting a stalemate.

Verdict: 0-0


Newcastle vs Stoke


A close to full strength Stoke were rocked by Championship side Derby in the Carling Cup in midweek and I expect the result to have a bearing on this week's fixture.
With only one loss in six Pulis' men have been doing well recently but a loss like that can really damage confidence, especially that of a newly promoted team.
Joe Kinnear's resurgence continues; Newcastle look organised, balanced and strong at the back. Bassong looks to be a revelation in the heart of their defence; a defence which has been notorioulsy shakey in recent years.
I think this one is a home banker.

Verdict: 2-0


Man Utd vs Sunderland (5:30)

Poor Sunderland. Manager Keane resigns in midweek after recording five losses in their last six matches and it doesnt get any better; they have to travel to Old Trafford the following Saturday.
Sometimes the departure of a manager has an adverse effect on players and they perform, but i dont see that happening here.
The game will not be a white wash but United are gathering momentum and will be looking to obtain maximum points before they jet off to the World Club Cup.

Verdict: 2-0


Sunday

West Brom vs Pompey

After last weeks hearty performance at Wigan, Tony Mowbray will be enthusiastic about getting something here, on home soil. West Brom are not playing as bad as form suggests and are due a victory.
Pourtsmouth have played a lot of games lately and it may well take its toll come Sunday. Being dumped out of the UEFA Cup on Thursday will hardly have been morale boosting for the big name players at the club.
Home win.

Verdict: 2-1


Everton vs Aston Villa

Everton at home are gritty, hard working and difficult to play against but without a recognisable centre forward due to a plethora of injuries, they have nothing to offer going forward.
On the other hand Martin O'neill has various attacking options at his disposal and after resting most of them in midweek, you would expect them to be firing on all cylinders.
Villa have been good on the road this season and have the firepower to win this game; but i expect Everton to grind out a point.

Verdict: 1-1


Monday

West Ham vs Tottenham

It will be an intriguing contest at Upton park on Monday night with both managers asking questions of their players after recent breaks in form. Tottenham have suffered two losses in their last three after Redknapp's tremendous start whilst Zola appears to have stopped the rot with a win and a draw in the last two away fixtures.
I expect it to be a cautious affair with neither team wanting to lose it; a game played out in midfield.

Verdict: 1-1


****Top Of The Class****

I'm confident with my choices this week after a nightmare last time out. Newscastle are a massive 5/6 with Coral to beat Stoke at home, whilst Chelsea also look a very big price, 8/13 with Ladbrokes to defeat Bolton.

United and Arsenal look like home bankers but my pick of the week is a Chelsea, Newcasle and United treble. Its looks every inch a Saturday afternoon winner.

Another nice one is Nicolas Anelka to score anytime on his old stomping ground against Bolton. He is firing at the minute and strikers always seem to score against their former clubs. 6/4 with Coral; get involved.

Predictions, 29/11/08;

15/11/08 selections; Six Corrct picks, no perfect scores.


My selections: Actual Results:

Bolton 0-1 Liverpool, Bolton 0- 2 Liverpool

Arsenal 2-1 Villa, Arsenal 0-2 Villa

Blackburn 0-2 Sunderland, Blackburn 1-2 Sunderland

Fulham 2-2 Tottenham, Fulham 2-1 Tottenham

Man Utd 3-0 Stoke, Man Utd 5-0 Stoke

Newcastle 0-0 Wigan, Newcastle 2-2 Wigan

West ham 1-1 Portsmouth, West Ham 0-0 Pourtsmouth

West Brom 1-2 Chelsea, West Brom 0-3 Chelsea

Everton 1-1 Boro, Everton 0-1 Boro

Hull 1-3 Man City, Hull 2-2 Man City

Saturday Selections

Villa vs Fulham

Fulham are in good form of late, the partnership of Bullard and Murphy in midfield looks as good as any in the league. After last weeks point at Anfield Fulham will be brimming with confidence.

However the trip to Villa park is always tricky and Fulham are notoriously terrible away from home. The Claret and Blues are due a home win after a couple of weeks without; I expect O'Neills men will be up for this one and will come out on top.

Verdict: 1-0

Middlesboro vs Newcastle

Both teams like to play football so I expect an entertaining game at the Riverside today. Gareth Southgate just cant find the consistency to kick on and make a serious challenge for a European place; he will be desperate for a win today to demonstrate his intentions for the club. A win today would be massive.

However Joe Kinnear is growing in confidence in his role at Newcastle and after last week's point at Stamford bridge, tails will be up.

I expect Newcastle to pick up their first away win of the season here, in what will be be a nervy encounter between arch rivals.

Verdict 1-2 Newcastle

Stoke vs Hull

This one is intriguing and a tough one to call. Hull are streets ahead of Stoke in the league however Stoke go into the match clear favourites with the bookies. Hull are enduring a poor run of form but do not be mistaken; they are a good team.

It will be a physical affair at the Britannia but the visitors will give as good as they get. I believe Hull's extra bit of quality will clinch the points but it wont be pretty.

Verdict; 0-1

Sunderland vs Bolton

On paper this one looks close; Bolton have won 3 of their last 4 games and Sunderland form has been neither here nor there. However I expect this one to be a one sided affair.

Sunderland have a lot of quality in their ranks; much more than Bolton; and I expect Keane to have a big smile on his face tonight. If Cisse and Jones can build an understanding on the pitch I expect the Weirsiders to climb the league.

Verdict; 3-0

Wigan vs West Brom

Mowbray's men admirably try to play attractive football but they are stuggling to score and are conceding freely at the other end; never a good combination.

Wigan are doing better of late, taking eight points from their last four games. They are strong, skillful and gritty.

However West Brom have to pick up points somewhere, they are winless in their previous seven league matches with one draw, and I expect them to dig in and get something here. Dont expect firworks.

Verdict 0-0

Sunday

Man City vs Man Utd

United havent really got going this season have they? Although he is one of the most talented players in Europe, the arrival of Berbatov seems to have unsettled something. Ferguson needs to find a formula that works and stick with it.

City had an a excellent result in Germany on Thursday but they may well suffer from it in terms of fatigue come Sunday.

I expect a stella performance from the defending champions here; anything less and Ferguson will be getting the hairdryer out.

Verdict 0-2

Pourtsmouth vs Blackburn

Both teams are low on confidence at the minute; both Tony Adams and Paul Ince just cant get anything going.

Pompey were unlucky in midweek against Milan; a memorable victory there would have been just what the doctor ordered. Adams clearly forgot to pick up his prescription!

Blackburn have been poor for the majority of the season but will go into this believing they can get something.

Although both teams desperately need a win, the last thing they want is another loss. Draw.

Verdict; 1-1

Tottenham vs Everton

Intersting this one with the clubs experiencing different fortunes. Tottenham are flying whilst Everton are down in the doledrums; however Everton lie in seventh whilst Tottenham lie in sixteenth? Strange.

This will be a well contested affair and I expect goals. Gomes has kept two consective clean sheets for Spurs; thats got to change!

Everton will be up for this in a big way, Moyes appears to be growing increasingly frustrated with his team, they wont want to let him down here.

I'm going for the scousers to conquer in the capital in what will bea feisty encounter.

Verdict 2-3

Chelsea vs Arsenal

Big game for both clubs this one, both teams appear to be stuttering.

It will be interesting to see how Chelsea fair against one of their rivals on home soil; the first time they have done since being outplayed by Liverpool on their own patch. After a setback in Europe in midweek they will want to get back to winning ways.

Arsenal...what can you say about Arsenal!? It would be a shame if after years of assembling such a talented group of youngsters the project was to disband because of early setbacks and mutiny in the camp. I dont think it will and I sincerely hope, like all football purists, it doesnt.

I expect newly appointed captain Cesc to lead out his troops with vigour. Arsenal will be keen to show that they aren't lightwieghts in the bid for the championship honours.

However Chelsea are strong; Arsenal will have done an extremely well to come away with a point.

Verdict; 1-1

West Ham vs Liverpool

Rafa Benitez will be watching the weekend football with a careful eye. Liverpool's closest rivals all have difficult task's this week; if results are kind a win here may well put daylight bewteen themselves and the rest.

But West Ham will not roll over. After a win last time out the Londoners will be keen to build some momentum; the Upton Park faithful will be keen.

However Liverpool owe West Ham one, after suffering losses in this fixture when they should have won in previous seasons. I fully expect Gerrard and Co to get the job done and maintain their title charge.

Verdict; 0-2

The Curious Case of Scott Parker

Scott Parker is undoubtedly a player of enormous talent. In the modern game he is a rare breed, an 'all round' midfielder who is as comfortable in defensive situations as attacking. He has represented his country at every level since appearing for the under 15's some fourteen years ago, and has cost a collective 23.5 million in transfer fees. But for a player who has promised much, the Lambeth born talent has ultimately delivered very little.

The footballing career of Scott Parker thus far can be best described as fitful. The tough tackling competitor, for one reason or another, has only sporadically showcased the sort of skill which made him one of the brightest prospects in English football at Charlton. So when and why did Parker's career begin to stutter?

His ascendence at Charlton was dramatic. Much like his haircut, if anybody cares to remember his flowing, ginger bonce in 2002? Signed at a relatively late age in todays market at 15, it wasnt long before the midfielder was making an impression in the senior squad. Parker's stellar performances in the 2003/2004 season led him to be being named PFA Young Player Of The Year. However a combination of bad decision-making; on the players behalf; and bad fortune, hindered his development.

In the March of 2004, Parker transferred from Charlton to the newly prosperous Chelsea after a protracted and acrimonious saga between the two London clubs. Like numerous other young British talents, Parker had only limited first team opportunities at Stamford Bridge. Hardly suprising considering he would have had to userp Claude Makalele or Frank Lampard to feature in the starting eleven.

Since his 18 months in the wilderness playing, or more accurately not playing under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea, Parker has failed to find any sort of consistency in his game. The clubs that Parker has signed for have turned out to be less than inspired choices. At both Newcastle and West ham, the manager who brought him to the club was dismissed in a matter of months.

A succession of injuries hasn't helped his cause either. His spell at St James Park was littered with ailments, as has been his time with West Ham; for both him and his team mates. Graeme Souness' injury list at Newcastle in 2006 can only be rivalled by that of Alan Curbishley's at West ham in 2007. It was six weeks into the season before Parker made his debut for the Hammers because of a lingering ankle complaint.

However Parker has remained fit this season and although not back to his exceptional best, has found something that represents form. His performances have given the Upton Park faithful something to cheer about during an otherwise turbulent campaign; although the situation at the East London club improves every week under the tutelage of Gianfranco Zola. Parker has benefited from the the Italians lucid approach to the game but for how long Zola will be in the possession of Parker remains to be seen...

Other Premiership clubs will undoubtedly be watching the precaurious financial situation at West Ham unfold, waiting to pounce like a bargain hunter in the aisles of Debenhams on January 1st. The likes of Manchester City and Tottenham are in urgent need of a strong, footballing midfielder. However Parker could be forgiven for aiming his sights a little higher this time around, if he is indeed looking to move on. Out of the 'Big Four', Arsenal for one could certainly benefit from the midfield expertise of the England International. It could also be argued that his ex-club Chelsea could do with soembody of his elk in the ranks.

At 28 years of age, it really is make or break time for Scott. Realistically, he only has one more big move in him. I believe Parker has the pedigree to shine on the brightest of footballing stages. The question is at this point in his career, will anybody give him the opportunity to do so?

Weekend Football Tips, 15/11/08

Saturday

Bolton Vs Liverpool (12:45)

Bolton's resurgent form of late can be attributed to their resurrected defensive resolve. They have kept two cleans sheets in their previous two games and I dont expect them to be leaking goals today either.
Liverpool were poor in midweek and Rafa will be hoping his team can win at the Reebok to galvanise their title charge. And I expect them to do just that.
The game will be tight, but with the likes of Gerrard, Carragher and Alonso restored to the starting eleven I'm anticipating an away win.

Verdict: 0-1


Arsenal Vs Aston Villa

After the electrifying performance of Arsenal's youngsters in midweek, the senior mmbers of the squad will be keen to show they're worth in this fixture. Wenger will be looking to build on the excellent result against Manchester United last week and I expect the Gunners to race out of the traps here.
However Villa will not roll over. The Midland outfit have lost their previous two fixtures and like the world's financial institutions, will be looking to halt a recession.
But I have to go for the home win. It looks as though O'Neill will be without target man John Carew and when he's not in the team Villa seriously miss his presence.

Verdict: 2-1


Blackburn Vs Sunderland

Blackburn beat Sunderland in the Carling Cup midweek but I see a reverse in fortunes here, in a very different premiership clash.
Glancing at the squads I see more quality in the Black Cats; Keane has strength in all departments, particularly in midfield, were I see this game being won and lost.
The partnership of Jones and Cisse looks promising and if the Sunderland defence can take care of Santa Cruz they should get the result. As for Blackburn, if they lose Cruz in January, I worry about their premiership status.

Verdict: 0-2


Fulham Vs Tottenham

Harry is the man with the midas touch at the moment but how long can this run of form continue? The squad that Ramos assembled, in my humble opinion, was unbalanced, overpriced and inadequate. This is still the same team isnt it!?
Yes, Tottenham have had a good run of result's of late but I expect the wheels to fall off sooner rather than later. Spurs run into a decent Fulham outfit today who are difficult to beat on their own patch. Its going to be a close one; I'm going for a draw.

Verdict: 2-2


Manchester United Vs Stoke

There is only going to be one outcome of this fixture today; you guessed it, home win! A wounded United, after last week's defeat at the Emirates, against a limited, if resillient Stoke outfit at Old Trafford represents Trouble for Pulis' Men.
I think united have enough presence to deal with Stoke's physical demands. This game will be one way traffic for the most part.

Verdict: 3-0


Newcastle Vs Wigan

Wigan are really struggling at the minute, which suprises me considering the quality of the squad that Steve Bruce has assembled. The win at Fratton Park was an exception amongst a series of poor results away from home and at the JJB.
Joe Kinnear also has fine players at his disposal making this one an intersting contest. Newcastle are definately improving under the guidance of the ex-Don.
I expect this one to be a tentative affair with both teams afraid of losing it. Newcastle may well push them hard towards the end of the game but I think the spoils wil be shared.

Verdict: 0-0


West ham Vs Portsmouth

Poor Gianfranco Zola; nothing seems to be going his way at the moment. How they ended up losing against Everton by 2 clear goals last week, is beyond me. With wrangling in the boardroom and the questioning of the managers position, you have to worry for West ham.
Redknapp has left Adams with an array of talent in his departure. Their is no reason why Portsmouth shouldnt qualify for europe again this year.
However I think through sheer grit, West Ham will get something out of todays game, led by their influential skipper Scott Parker. His performances have been excellent when I've seen him, I imagine some of the bigger teams will be tracking the situation at West Ham very carefully.
Draw.

Verdict: 1-1


West brom Vs Chelsea

Tony Mowbray deserves credit for how he's gone about his business in his first managerial campaign in the top flight. The ex Hibs man insists on playing attractive football, passing and moving on the deck. I'm sure Wenger would concur.
Chelsea's loss in midweek will not have a bearing on this fixture, I imagine it has been a case of "so what?" at Stamford Bridge.
This one will be an aestetically pleasing game of football as Chelsea like to play a bit themselves. I expect the London outfit to come out on top ofcourse, but it might be closer than some would expect.

Verdict: 1-2


Everton Vs Middlesboro

Both David Moyes and Gareth Southgate will be happy with the way things are going at the minute. Boro have enjoyed some excellent results this season, particularly away from home, and Everton find themselves in 7th position; not bad for team that was in 'crisis' a matter of weeks ago.
This fixture is a difficult one to call but I'm going with Everton to edge it, the Goodison crowd making the difference here.

Verdict: 1-0


Hull vs Man City

This game is a big un' for both managers. Although were at a relatively early stage of the campaign, I believe the outcome of this fixture will have a massive bearing on the rest of the season, for both clubs.
After three successive defeats, Phil Brown will be desperate to show that Hull are not a flash in the pan. With difficult fixtures to come over the christmas period, a win here cements Hull as a side to be reckoned with.
Although the 'vote of confidence' given to Mark Hughes this week was not the kiss of death that it often is, a defeat at Hull would seriously damage the Welshman's image as a man who can take this club to the top of the pile. Sadly football is this fickle.
I'm going for the Manchester outfit to come through this test with flying colours, watch out for Robinho and SWP.

Verdict: 1-3