For any soccer fan, a visit to the new Wembley Stadium is a must. Not only is it one of the world's most outstanding modern stadiums, but is host to the best of English football and features a veritable 'footie-fest' of the nation's leading cup finals and Football League play-offs every season.
The Football Association - the sport's governing body - is planning a £12million move of its administrative headquarters from Soho Square to the new Stadium during July 2009. As Wembley is also the home venue for all of England's international fixtures - including the qualifying games for the 2010 World Cup Finals - the move will firmly establish the stadium as the 'home of English football'.
As the English football season progresses towards its climax in May, Wembley hosts a number of prestigious finals including the traditional finale to the football season - the FA Cup Final. But, before that the cup final season begins in either late February or early March with the staging of the Carling Cup Final. This show piece cup competition of the Football League will celebrate its 50th anniversary at Wembley in 2010.
Next up is the Johnstone's Paint Trophy Final played at Wembley in early April. This competition is exclusively for clubs that compete in League One and League Two of the Football League. The 2009 final was an absolute thriller with Luton beating Scunthorpe 3-2 after extra time in front of a substantial lower league football crowd of 53,378.
In May the games come thick and fast at the Stadium, starting with the FA Trophy Final and FA Vase Final, played on successive days on the second weekend of the month.
Next, and still in May, the Football League hosts the Play-off finals when the last promotion spots for The Championship, League One and League Two are decided. Indeed, The Football League Championship play-off final - normally played on late May Bank Holiday Monday - is billed as football's most lucrative 'one-off' game. The winners will be promoted to the Barclays Premier League and with that comes access to lucrative TV money.
Finally, the last weekend in May sees the traditional season finale; the FA Cup final. This is one of the few 'protected' games to be televised live on terrestrial channels and is the daddy of all football competition finals. As you can see, May is also the month when the owners of [http://www.hotels.co.uk/hotel-united-kingdom/hotel-london/]London hotels - particularly those situated around Wembley - rub their hands in glee at the glut of 'no vacancies' signs, as they accommodate the thousands of football fans travelling to the capital to watch their teams in action.
But, fans of football that can't get a ticket to a game at Wembley needn't despair. They can still access the stadium and sample its marvellous features at first-hand by buying a Stadium tour ticket.
Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Mcindoe http://EzineArticles.com/?The-New-Wembley-Stadium---Home-to-English-Football&id=2263666
P.S: For any soccer fan, a visit to the new Wembley Stadium is a must. Not only is it one of the world's most outstanding modern stadiums, but is host to the best of English football and features a veritable 'footie-fest' of the nation's leading cup finals and Football League play-offs every season. The Football Association - the sport's governing body - is planning a 12million pounds move of its administrative headquarters from Soho Square to the new Stadium during July 2009.
By Paul Mcindoe
Saturday, September 19, 2009
English Premier League Preview - Chelsea and Arsenal
Chelsea have always been a top side challenging to get to the top four and this season will be no different. The biggest change that Chelsea has undergone is the change in their manager. Guus Hiddink who had an awesome time at Chelsea is replaced by the experienced AC Milan manager Carlo Ancelotti. The squad has not undergone many changes but it will be boosted with the addition of Russian midfielder Yuri Zhirkov from CSKA Moscow, English striker Daniel Sturridge from Manchester City and Middlesbrough keeper Ross Turnbull. Chelsea have one of the strongest squads in the Premier League with the likes of Lampard, Terry, Drogba, Anelka, Deco, Ballack, Cech and much more and their chance to win the title will entirely depend on team management, team chemistry and how well they handle pressure.
Arsenal, in my opinion, would have to fight to keep its place in the top four unlike the rest of the top four which are challenging to win the title. This is mainly because Arsenal did not put up a very good show last season according to their high standards and the strengthening of the Manchester City squad will challenge the Gunners for a place in the top four. Arsenal lost there top striker Adebayor and defender Tolo Toure to Manchester City. Even though they have a slightly weaker squad and not a very good performance last season, it will all depend on how Arsene Wenger handles his team. With top players like Fabregas, Gallas, Van Persie, Arshavin and the rest, Arsenal will surely have an outside chance for the title but its all in the managers hands.
Mubeen Musthakeem is a Manchester City fanatic who is the owner of http://manchestercity-news.com where he shares his tips on Manchester City and also provides the latest Manchester City news.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mubeen_Musthakeem http://EzineArticles.com/?English-Premier-League-Preview---Chelsea-and-Arsenal&id=2727682
P.S.:The Premier League 2009/2010 will have a new twist with the oil rich team Manchester City spending big and adding some quality players to their squad. The English Premier League boasts to be the best league in the world with four absolutely brilliant teams who almost always make it to the Champions League quarter finals most of the time.
By Mubeen Musthakeem
Arsenal, in my opinion, would have to fight to keep its place in the top four unlike the rest of the top four which are challenging to win the title. This is mainly because Arsenal did not put up a very good show last season according to their high standards and the strengthening of the Manchester City squad will challenge the Gunners for a place in the top four. Arsenal lost there top striker Adebayor and defender Tolo Toure to Manchester City. Even though they have a slightly weaker squad and not a very good performance last season, it will all depend on how Arsene Wenger handles his team. With top players like Fabregas, Gallas, Van Persie, Arshavin and the rest, Arsenal will surely have an outside chance for the title but its all in the managers hands.
Mubeen Musthakeem is a Manchester City fanatic who is the owner of http://manchestercity-news.com where he shares his tips on Manchester City and also provides the latest Manchester City news.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mubeen_Musthakeem http://EzineArticles.com/?English-Premier-League-Preview---Chelsea-and-Arsenal&id=2727682
P.S.:The Premier League 2009/2010 will have a new twist with the oil rich team Manchester City spending big and adding some quality players to their squad. The English Premier League boasts to be the best league in the world with four absolutely brilliant teams who almost always make it to the Champions League quarter finals most of the time.
By Mubeen Musthakeem
Premier League 2009 and 10 Season Preview
The new English Premier League season is nearly upon us. Football fans have been waiting all summer long for the season to start, not just in England, but worldwide; with the English Premier League being the most popular and viewed football league in the world.
Manchester City have been the big spenders this summer, already bolstering their attack with the signings of Roque Santa Cruz, Carlos Tevez and Emmanuel Adebayor. Desperate to make an impact this season after failing to make much of an impression last season despite the big money signings that included Robinho and Shaun Wright-Phillips. Mark Hughes is facing pressure as he knows his team must perform this season otherwise he could be out of work by the end of the season.
Rivals Manchester United have seen their squad weakened by the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo for a world record fee to Real Madrid. Arguably the best player in the world, he seems irreplaceable and United fans will be wondering how much of an effect this will have on their team this season. Their new winger is Antonio Valencia from Wigan Athletic, a proven player in the Premier League who has impressed during his time at a smaller Premier League side. Can he handle the pressure of a top 4 side? While he doesn't have a very good goalscoring record, certainly not near Ronaldo's, Manchester United have brought in Michael Owen on a free transfer to replace Carlos Tevez who they were unable to sign when his loan expired. The England international has a proven record despite struggling over recent years with injury problems. If he can shake them off, expect him to make an impact in Manchester this season.
Down in London, Arsenal and Chelsea have been reluctant to sign many new players, with the Gunners biggest signing being Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax for a fee in the region of £10,000,000. They have however sold Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure for a combined price of over £40,000,000 that should leave manager Arsene Wenger with some cash to spend. Chelsea's biggest name signing under new manager Carlo Ancelotti has been Yuri Zhirkov for CSKA Moscow, while the Italian has also brought in two young Englishmen; Ross Turnbull and Daniel Sturridge.
Last season's runners up, Liverpool have brought in Glen Johnson for what many feel to be overpriced at £17,500,000. Alvaro Arbeloa has headed off to Real Madrid, and Sami Hyypia left for Bayer Leverkusen when his contract expired.
It seems once again it could be the same top 4 teams qualifying for Champions League next season, unless Manchester City transform into competitors after their summer spending spree. We'll have to wait and see how they get on, whilst Aston Villa and Everton may miss out again without strengthening their squads dramatically this summer.
The Premier League welcomes Wolverhampton Wanderers, Birmingham City and Burnley this season following their promotion from the Championship last season. All eyes will be on those and others down the bottom as they fear the drop and the big loss of earnings that relegation brings upon three unfortunate teams.
Barrie Smith is a writer for [http://www.premiershiptips.com]Premiership Tips - A free sports betting tips service based in the United Kingdom.
This month, Premiership Tips have announced their new [http://www.premiershiptips.com/forum]Football Betting Forum, allowing members to post their own tips, opinions and reviews in the sporting world.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barrie_Smith http://EzineArticles.com/?Premier-League-2009-and-10-Season-Preview&id=2697830
P.S.:The new English Premier League season is nearly upon us. Football fans have been waiting all summer long for the season to start, not just in England, but worldwide.
By Barrie Smith
Manchester City have been the big spenders this summer, already bolstering their attack with the signings of Roque Santa Cruz, Carlos Tevez and Emmanuel Adebayor. Desperate to make an impact this season after failing to make much of an impression last season despite the big money signings that included Robinho and Shaun Wright-Phillips. Mark Hughes is facing pressure as he knows his team must perform this season otherwise he could be out of work by the end of the season.
Rivals Manchester United have seen their squad weakened by the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo for a world record fee to Real Madrid. Arguably the best player in the world, he seems irreplaceable and United fans will be wondering how much of an effect this will have on their team this season. Their new winger is Antonio Valencia from Wigan Athletic, a proven player in the Premier League who has impressed during his time at a smaller Premier League side. Can he handle the pressure of a top 4 side? While he doesn't have a very good goalscoring record, certainly not near Ronaldo's, Manchester United have brought in Michael Owen on a free transfer to replace Carlos Tevez who they were unable to sign when his loan expired. The England international has a proven record despite struggling over recent years with injury problems. If he can shake them off, expect him to make an impact in Manchester this season.
Down in London, Arsenal and Chelsea have been reluctant to sign many new players, with the Gunners biggest signing being Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax for a fee in the region of £10,000,000. They have however sold Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure for a combined price of over £40,000,000 that should leave manager Arsene Wenger with some cash to spend. Chelsea's biggest name signing under new manager Carlo Ancelotti has been Yuri Zhirkov for CSKA Moscow, while the Italian has also brought in two young Englishmen; Ross Turnbull and Daniel Sturridge.
Last season's runners up, Liverpool have brought in Glen Johnson for what many feel to be overpriced at £17,500,000. Alvaro Arbeloa has headed off to Real Madrid, and Sami Hyypia left for Bayer Leverkusen when his contract expired.
It seems once again it could be the same top 4 teams qualifying for Champions League next season, unless Manchester City transform into competitors after their summer spending spree. We'll have to wait and see how they get on, whilst Aston Villa and Everton may miss out again without strengthening their squads dramatically this summer.
The Premier League welcomes Wolverhampton Wanderers, Birmingham City and Burnley this season following their promotion from the Championship last season. All eyes will be on those and others down the bottom as they fear the drop and the big loss of earnings that relegation brings upon three unfortunate teams.
Barrie Smith is a writer for [http://www.premiershiptips.com]Premiership Tips - A free sports betting tips service based in the United Kingdom.
This month, Premiership Tips have announced their new [http://www.premiershiptips.com/forum]Football Betting Forum, allowing members to post their own tips, opinions and reviews in the sporting world.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barrie_Smith http://EzineArticles.com/?Premier-League-2009-and-10-Season-Preview&id=2697830
P.S.:The new English Premier League season is nearly upon us. Football fans have been waiting all summer long for the season to start, not just in England, but worldwide.
By Barrie Smith
The English Premier League Starts Here, But Who Will Be the New Champions?
The English Premier League gets under way this week, and though it doesn't seem five minutes since Chelsea were lifting the trophy for the second season in a row, here we go again.
Chelsea start as clear favourites, 1/2 say the bookies, and that does not represent good value. There may be better value to be had in the next few weeks. True, Chelsea have improved their squad by recruiting Shevchenko from AC Milan and Ballack from Bayern Munich, though the unfortunate Ballack was promptly injured in the traditional warm up match, the Community Shield. It doesn't appear a serious injury though, and Ballack should be back soon. But Chelsea have also puzzlingly let Duff go to Newcastle for a pittance of a fee, and there are problems with one or two other players. It may be that Chelsea concentrate their main fire this season on the Champions League, and if they do that, there are three, possibly four challengers, who will be eager to jump in and snatch the title.
Incidentally Chelsea lost that Community Shield match to Liverpool 2-1 with a late goal from the beanpole giant Peter Crouch, and Liverpool look well equipped to challenge the blues this season. They have not won the title since 1990, and amazingly have never won the Premier League. Their supporters are hungry for the league title, and this year urged on by inspirational captain Steven Gerrard, they could go close. They have strengthened again by acquiring the lightning fast Bellamy from Blackburn Rovers, though he is injury prone, and accident-prone too. Liverpool will go close. Current price 8/1.
Second last year were Manchester United, and I have a feeling if you offered them a top two place right now, they might take it. They have lost their talisman goal scorer Ruud to Real Madrid and they will certainly miss his thirty goals a season. But oddly now he has gone, the other players know they must step up and start scoring right through the team. They do have goalscorers in the side and Sir Alex Ferguson, the manager, has cash in his pocket to spend, though he seems to be finding it difficult locating the right players. They will be desperate to stay ahead of their nearest and bitterest rivals Liverpool, and will do well to do so. Lots will depend on Rooney and Ronaldo, keeping their tempers and concentration. You write off Manchester United at your peril. 8/1 for the league.
Fourth last year, albeit by only two points from their closest rivals Tottenham Hotspur, were Arsenal. It is all change for them as they go into their spanking brand new home at the Emirates Stadium. They have also lost three stalwarts in Pires, Bergkamp, and Campbell, and are on the brink of losing England's full back Ashley Cole too, to Chelsea. The blues have reportedly bid £20 million, Arsenal want £30 million. They do have good young players coming through, and a much larger crowd this season judging by early ticket sales and greater ground capacity. Don't forget they did make the Champions League final last season. Add to that Thierry Henry's renewed commitment to the club, and it would be foolish to write off their chances. But the competition will be hotter than ever for the Gunners, not least from their near neighbours, Spurs. Arsenal are also 8/1 for the title, but might do well to finish in the top four.
That brings us to England's most improved club, Spurs. They have been getting stronger for several seasons now, and under their likeable manager Martin Jol, they should be stronger again this year. They have concentrated on buying the best young players they can find, and being patient with them as they grow into the team. They have consistently bought young English players too, something that Arsenal have noticeably not done, though selling Michael Carrick to Manchester United is a blow, (Arsenal are now regularly putting out an eleven containing not a single British player) and one senses that the spirit in the Spurs' camp continues to rise. But can they break into the top four this year? They could do so, and if any of the top four slip up, or have a bad year, then expect the whites to step up and take their place. Spurs are currently 80/1 to win the league and even that may not be too fanciful.
So what of the rest? The black and white shirted hordes will still turn out at Saint James's Park to support Newcastle, and in Damien Duff for £5 million they must surely have landed the buy of the season. The new captain Scottie Parker will drive them on, but the loss of England's centre forward Michael Owen through injury during the World Cup, he may miss the whole season, is a big blow. Newcastle are improving, but still need more firepower to compete with the elite.
Aston Villa have been a sleeping giant for years, but with the long drawn out takeover finally getting sorted, and the charismatic manager, (Saint) Martin O'Neill duly installed, Villa will improve. But they need to. They were almost relegated last year, and they have so far added no new players to the squad. But there is a sense of optimism around Villa Park, and the supporters will undoubtedly flock back, to begin with at least. Don't forget Villa are former European champions, but then again so are Nottingham Forest (twice) and they are now languishing in the third division. Villa alone flies the flag for the English midlands and they will need to improve to stay up, and under Martin, they will.
Everton are Liverpool's second club, though their supporters still consider they are the best. They have bought well in the close season landing Andy Johnson from Crystal Palace, (albeit for a lot of money at £8.5 million) but alongside Beattie, they look to have the firepower to trouble the best defences. Everton are very much an up and down side. I expect them to be up this year.
West Ham are currently London's fourth club, and they will be looking to improve on that. They reached the cup final last year and were unlucky to lose and in Dean Ashton, they have a striker who knows where the goals are. I thought he should have gone to the World Cup, and I am pleased to see him included in the current England squad. I suspect the manager Alan Pardew has bought well, and West Ham will be a handful for anyone, especially at their tight home stadium of Upton Park.
Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers, both from Lancashire, and both I suspect will do well to repeat last year's successes. Blackburn have lost Bellamy to Liverpool, a big blow, and the players they have bought in are not in the same class. Bolton have been quiet in the transfer market and one detects a little frustration from their larger than life manager, Sam Allardyce. He missed the England job to Steve McClaren by a whisker, and it shows.
McClaren's replacement at Middlesbrough is the ex England centre half and Boro player, Gareth Southgate. They will need to hit the ground running. He has lost Jimmy Floyd to Charlton, though he has acquired the cultured left footed Arca from relegated Sunderland. I expect the umpteen English kids to step up this year and Middlesbrough should do OK.
Charlton and Fulham are London's fifth and sixth Premier League Clubs. Charlton have lost their long time manager, Alan Curbishley, and they will miss him. They have recruited Ian Dowie, and Dowie took Crystal Palace down. Addicks' fans will be hoping he does not repeat the performance, and they really should not be relegated. They have recruited Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink from Boro for his goals, and in Darren Bent, they have a centre forward eager and willing to show that his omission from the England World Cup squad was a catastrophic mistake, which it was. They should score goals, and that will be good enough to keep them safe.
I expect Fulham to be relegated every year, and every year they escape. That is a huge credit to their manager, the likeable Welshman, Chris Coleman. They have recruited Jimmy Bullard from Wigan, though there still seems some unrest in the camp with Malbranque and one or two others. Fulham will do well to stay up, but when it comes to it, they always seem to, and they probably will again.
Wigan Athletic confounded everyone with their performances last time. But as manager Paul Jewell has found before (at Bradford City), it is the second season where teams are often found out. But Wigan are no Bradford. They have a determined chairman who puts his money into the club, a former pro himself who broke his leg in the 1960 Cup Final, and they have acquired the former England centre forward in Emile Heskey, from relegated Birmingham City. But Emile has never been a prolific goal scorer. Wigan surely cannot match last year's achievements, and they could struggle, but I would be surprised if they were relegated.
Manchester City have made numerous personnel changes through the close season, though I am not convinced they are all for the better. The sale of their goalkeeper David James to Portsmouth is certainly a puzzling move. But their boisterous manager Stuart Pearce will keep everyone on their toes. I suspect this will be an important year for City, and for Pearce. A bad start could spiral out of control. A good start could see City pushing for a European place. If I had to choose, it would be the former.
Portsmouth survived by the skin of their teeth last year thanks solely to their returning talisman manager Harry Redknapp. Can they do it again? Yes, I think they can, urged on by their fanatical fans in their crumbling old stadium. Harry has had money to spend, and has spent it wisely. Portsmouth will be a handful at home, as they always are, and that should be good enough. I hope it isn't a hard year for Pompey, I don't think their nervous manager could stand it.
That leaves the three promoted clubs, Reading, Sheffield United and Watford. It is unusual for the three promoted teams to go straight back down, yet that is what the pundits are predicting. Reading, the Royals, won the Championship last season in a canter, and in their manager Steve Coppell, they have a thinking man's manager. I have followed his career closely ever since his league debut for Tranmere Rovers in the early seventies, a match I witnessed. They haven't added greatly to their squad, and it is uncertain how much cash he has at his disposal. Reading have never played in the top tier before, and the fans can't wait. A bad start could mean a long and painful season. A good start could be enough to see them safe. It's a fifty-fifty call.
Sheffield United, the Blades are back, and under the abrasive manager Neil Warnock for his first time in the EPL. No one will relish the trip to Brammall Lane, Yorkshire, not least the match officials who will surely hear the wrath of Neil's considerable tongue. United have shown in recent seasons that they can compete with the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool in FA Cup matches, but whether they can do that week in week out is an entirely different matter. You look at their squad of battlers, and you don't see quality, and ultimately, that could cost them.
Watford are an amazing story. They scrambled up through the play-offs defeating the much fancied Leeds United, and in their interesting young manager Adie Boothroyd, they have someone who demands listening to. He certainly talks a good season ahead for the Hornets, but can they really stay up? The bookmakers and the pundits say a definite no, but it has happened before. This situation reminds me of Jewell at Bradford City a few years ago, when everyone said they didn't have a cat in hells chance. But Jewell kept Bradford City up, and Boothroyd could do the same. If he did, much bigger clubs might come calling. Boothroyd seems destined to succeed, but whether it is at Watford, only time will tell. Incidentally, you can still get a free $30 bet at betfair.com by inputting the code 6CHE3VPWJ where required.
As for my choices: I will take Liverpool to break their duck, and win the Premier League. Chelsea might take the Champions League, and sorry, but Sheffield United, Fulham and Watford could be relegated. But what do I know? Don't follow my thoughts. Pick your own!
Let's hope it's a great season, with close finishes at either end of the table, which for once, it could be.
David Carter's charming new book, "Drift and Badger and the Search for Uncle Mo" is out now. It is a story for older children and adults. Drift, a red deer fawn, is born unseasonably late and will always struggle against his bigger, brasher brethren. His mother travelled deep into the forest to give birth, as the herds moved on far to the north. A tragic accident leaves Drift to fend for himself; to wander the forest, frightened and alone. One moonlit night he stumbles into the crazy badger, Daisy, who begins teaching him the ways of the forest. They set out on the long and eventful journey to locate the herds and find Drift's missing uncle Mo, but will they find him and can they survive the hazards and dangers of the wild forest? Follow the exciting adventures of Drift and Badger and lose yourself in another world. Read more, see more, find out more, about Drift and Badger right now at http://www.driftandbadger.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Carter http://EzineArticles.com/?The-English-Premier-League-Starts-Here,-But-Who-Will-Be-the-New-Champions?&id=269387
P.S:The English Premier League gets under way again, but who will be the eventual champions? Despite the bookies pricing Chelsea at two to one on, it could be a closer race than many people think. And could Spurs finally break into the top four? They might, especially if one of the big boys has a bad season. Either way, it looks good for an exciting season. Here's how I rate every clubs chances.
By David Carter
Chelsea start as clear favourites, 1/2 say the bookies, and that does not represent good value. There may be better value to be had in the next few weeks. True, Chelsea have improved their squad by recruiting Shevchenko from AC Milan and Ballack from Bayern Munich, though the unfortunate Ballack was promptly injured in the traditional warm up match, the Community Shield. It doesn't appear a serious injury though, and Ballack should be back soon. But Chelsea have also puzzlingly let Duff go to Newcastle for a pittance of a fee, and there are problems with one or two other players. It may be that Chelsea concentrate their main fire this season on the Champions League, and if they do that, there are three, possibly four challengers, who will be eager to jump in and snatch the title.
Incidentally Chelsea lost that Community Shield match to Liverpool 2-1 with a late goal from the beanpole giant Peter Crouch, and Liverpool look well equipped to challenge the blues this season. They have not won the title since 1990, and amazingly have never won the Premier League. Their supporters are hungry for the league title, and this year urged on by inspirational captain Steven Gerrard, they could go close. They have strengthened again by acquiring the lightning fast Bellamy from Blackburn Rovers, though he is injury prone, and accident-prone too. Liverpool will go close. Current price 8/1.
Second last year were Manchester United, and I have a feeling if you offered them a top two place right now, they might take it. They have lost their talisman goal scorer Ruud to Real Madrid and they will certainly miss his thirty goals a season. But oddly now he has gone, the other players know they must step up and start scoring right through the team. They do have goalscorers in the side and Sir Alex Ferguson, the manager, has cash in his pocket to spend, though he seems to be finding it difficult locating the right players. They will be desperate to stay ahead of their nearest and bitterest rivals Liverpool, and will do well to do so. Lots will depend on Rooney and Ronaldo, keeping their tempers and concentration. You write off Manchester United at your peril. 8/1 for the league.
Fourth last year, albeit by only two points from their closest rivals Tottenham Hotspur, were Arsenal. It is all change for them as they go into their spanking brand new home at the Emirates Stadium. They have also lost three stalwarts in Pires, Bergkamp, and Campbell, and are on the brink of losing England's full back Ashley Cole too, to Chelsea. The blues have reportedly bid £20 million, Arsenal want £30 million. They do have good young players coming through, and a much larger crowd this season judging by early ticket sales and greater ground capacity. Don't forget they did make the Champions League final last season. Add to that Thierry Henry's renewed commitment to the club, and it would be foolish to write off their chances. But the competition will be hotter than ever for the Gunners, not least from their near neighbours, Spurs. Arsenal are also 8/1 for the title, but might do well to finish in the top four.
That brings us to England's most improved club, Spurs. They have been getting stronger for several seasons now, and under their likeable manager Martin Jol, they should be stronger again this year. They have concentrated on buying the best young players they can find, and being patient with them as they grow into the team. They have consistently bought young English players too, something that Arsenal have noticeably not done, though selling Michael Carrick to Manchester United is a blow, (Arsenal are now regularly putting out an eleven containing not a single British player) and one senses that the spirit in the Spurs' camp continues to rise. But can they break into the top four this year? They could do so, and if any of the top four slip up, or have a bad year, then expect the whites to step up and take their place. Spurs are currently 80/1 to win the league and even that may not be too fanciful.
So what of the rest? The black and white shirted hordes will still turn out at Saint James's Park to support Newcastle, and in Damien Duff for £5 million they must surely have landed the buy of the season. The new captain Scottie Parker will drive them on, but the loss of England's centre forward Michael Owen through injury during the World Cup, he may miss the whole season, is a big blow. Newcastle are improving, but still need more firepower to compete with the elite.
Aston Villa have been a sleeping giant for years, but with the long drawn out takeover finally getting sorted, and the charismatic manager, (Saint) Martin O'Neill duly installed, Villa will improve. But they need to. They were almost relegated last year, and they have so far added no new players to the squad. But there is a sense of optimism around Villa Park, and the supporters will undoubtedly flock back, to begin with at least. Don't forget Villa are former European champions, but then again so are Nottingham Forest (twice) and they are now languishing in the third division. Villa alone flies the flag for the English midlands and they will need to improve to stay up, and under Martin, they will.
Everton are Liverpool's second club, though their supporters still consider they are the best. They have bought well in the close season landing Andy Johnson from Crystal Palace, (albeit for a lot of money at £8.5 million) but alongside Beattie, they look to have the firepower to trouble the best defences. Everton are very much an up and down side. I expect them to be up this year.
West Ham are currently London's fourth club, and they will be looking to improve on that. They reached the cup final last year and were unlucky to lose and in Dean Ashton, they have a striker who knows where the goals are. I thought he should have gone to the World Cup, and I am pleased to see him included in the current England squad. I suspect the manager Alan Pardew has bought well, and West Ham will be a handful for anyone, especially at their tight home stadium of Upton Park.
Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers, both from Lancashire, and both I suspect will do well to repeat last year's successes. Blackburn have lost Bellamy to Liverpool, a big blow, and the players they have bought in are not in the same class. Bolton have been quiet in the transfer market and one detects a little frustration from their larger than life manager, Sam Allardyce. He missed the England job to Steve McClaren by a whisker, and it shows.
McClaren's replacement at Middlesbrough is the ex England centre half and Boro player, Gareth Southgate. They will need to hit the ground running. He has lost Jimmy Floyd to Charlton, though he has acquired the cultured left footed Arca from relegated Sunderland. I expect the umpteen English kids to step up this year and Middlesbrough should do OK.
Charlton and Fulham are London's fifth and sixth Premier League Clubs. Charlton have lost their long time manager, Alan Curbishley, and they will miss him. They have recruited Ian Dowie, and Dowie took Crystal Palace down. Addicks' fans will be hoping he does not repeat the performance, and they really should not be relegated. They have recruited Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink from Boro for his goals, and in Darren Bent, they have a centre forward eager and willing to show that his omission from the England World Cup squad was a catastrophic mistake, which it was. They should score goals, and that will be good enough to keep them safe.
I expect Fulham to be relegated every year, and every year they escape. That is a huge credit to their manager, the likeable Welshman, Chris Coleman. They have recruited Jimmy Bullard from Wigan, though there still seems some unrest in the camp with Malbranque and one or two others. Fulham will do well to stay up, but when it comes to it, they always seem to, and they probably will again.
Wigan Athletic confounded everyone with their performances last time. But as manager Paul Jewell has found before (at Bradford City), it is the second season where teams are often found out. But Wigan are no Bradford. They have a determined chairman who puts his money into the club, a former pro himself who broke his leg in the 1960 Cup Final, and they have acquired the former England centre forward in Emile Heskey, from relegated Birmingham City. But Emile has never been a prolific goal scorer. Wigan surely cannot match last year's achievements, and they could struggle, but I would be surprised if they were relegated.
Manchester City have made numerous personnel changes through the close season, though I am not convinced they are all for the better. The sale of their goalkeeper David James to Portsmouth is certainly a puzzling move. But their boisterous manager Stuart Pearce will keep everyone on their toes. I suspect this will be an important year for City, and for Pearce. A bad start could spiral out of control. A good start could see City pushing for a European place. If I had to choose, it would be the former.
Portsmouth survived by the skin of their teeth last year thanks solely to their returning talisman manager Harry Redknapp. Can they do it again? Yes, I think they can, urged on by their fanatical fans in their crumbling old stadium. Harry has had money to spend, and has spent it wisely. Portsmouth will be a handful at home, as they always are, and that should be good enough. I hope it isn't a hard year for Pompey, I don't think their nervous manager could stand it.
That leaves the three promoted clubs, Reading, Sheffield United and Watford. It is unusual for the three promoted teams to go straight back down, yet that is what the pundits are predicting. Reading, the Royals, won the Championship last season in a canter, and in their manager Steve Coppell, they have a thinking man's manager. I have followed his career closely ever since his league debut for Tranmere Rovers in the early seventies, a match I witnessed. They haven't added greatly to their squad, and it is uncertain how much cash he has at his disposal. Reading have never played in the top tier before, and the fans can't wait. A bad start could mean a long and painful season. A good start could be enough to see them safe. It's a fifty-fifty call.
Sheffield United, the Blades are back, and under the abrasive manager Neil Warnock for his first time in the EPL. No one will relish the trip to Brammall Lane, Yorkshire, not least the match officials who will surely hear the wrath of Neil's considerable tongue. United have shown in recent seasons that they can compete with the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool in FA Cup matches, but whether they can do that week in week out is an entirely different matter. You look at their squad of battlers, and you don't see quality, and ultimately, that could cost them.
Watford are an amazing story. They scrambled up through the play-offs defeating the much fancied Leeds United, and in their interesting young manager Adie Boothroyd, they have someone who demands listening to. He certainly talks a good season ahead for the Hornets, but can they really stay up? The bookmakers and the pundits say a definite no, but it has happened before. This situation reminds me of Jewell at Bradford City a few years ago, when everyone said they didn't have a cat in hells chance. But Jewell kept Bradford City up, and Boothroyd could do the same. If he did, much bigger clubs might come calling. Boothroyd seems destined to succeed, but whether it is at Watford, only time will tell. Incidentally, you can still get a free $30 bet at betfair.com by inputting the code 6CHE3VPWJ where required.
As for my choices: I will take Liverpool to break their duck, and win the Premier League. Chelsea might take the Champions League, and sorry, but Sheffield United, Fulham and Watford could be relegated. But what do I know? Don't follow my thoughts. Pick your own!
Let's hope it's a great season, with close finishes at either end of the table, which for once, it could be.
David Carter's charming new book, "Drift and Badger and the Search for Uncle Mo" is out now. It is a story for older children and adults. Drift, a red deer fawn, is born unseasonably late and will always struggle against his bigger, brasher brethren. His mother travelled deep into the forest to give birth, as the herds moved on far to the north. A tragic accident leaves Drift to fend for himself; to wander the forest, frightened and alone. One moonlit night he stumbles into the crazy badger, Daisy, who begins teaching him the ways of the forest. They set out on the long and eventful journey to locate the herds and find Drift's missing uncle Mo, but will they find him and can they survive the hazards and dangers of the wild forest? Follow the exciting adventures of Drift and Badger and lose yourself in another world. Read more, see more, find out more, about Drift and Badger right now at http://www.driftandbadger.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Carter http://EzineArticles.com/?The-English-Premier-League-Starts-Here,-But-Who-Will-Be-the-New-Champions?&id=269387
P.S:The English Premier League gets under way again, but who will be the eventual champions? Despite the bookies pricing Chelsea at two to one on, it could be a closer race than many people think. And could Spurs finally break into the top four? They might, especially if one of the big boys has a bad season. Either way, it looks good for an exciting season. Here's how I rate every clubs chances.
By David Carter
English Premier League Players to Watch For This Season (2008-2009)
Season on season stars are born in the most prestigious and glamorous league of the world. Be it goal-machine Cristiano Ronaldo or the prolific Chelsea scorer Didier Drogba or Liverpool striker Fernando Torres, everyone plays for a reason. Fame, money and substance follows the best in the breed.
Now let us look at the players who are favorites for this season of Barclays Premier League :
1 - Cristiano Ronaldo
Club: Manchester United
Position: Winger
The best and safest bet to put your money on is Cristiano Ronaldo. He has been the buzz of the summer regarding his transfer to Spanish club Real Madrid. And why not, we are talking of a player who scored 42 goals in a season, winning his team both Premier League and UEFA Champion's league. With the news that he's going to stay ateast for one more season at Old Trafford ManU fans can expect their third consecutive Premiership title this season.
While Sir Alex Ferguson is yet to sign a striker for the team (most proabaly Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov), Ronaldo along with Wayne Roonay and Tevez forms one of the most lethal forward line-up to face with. If he continues his scoring streak, he surely is the best that Premiership can offer this season.
2 - Didier Drogba
Club: Chelsea
Position: Striker
He has done it before and he can do it again. To win big games for Chelsea. A prolif striker of the ball Didier Drogab is the only player whose presence gives Chelsea any hopes of winning titles this season.
With both Premiership and UEFA Championship's loss to rivals Manchester United being very close, Drogba will be accompanied this time by ex-Barcelona
playmaker Deco to fill up th gaps. World Cup wiining coach Luis Felipe Scolari will also accompany them for the titles this season.
3 - Fernando Torres
Club: Liverpool
Position: Striker
Right man in right time at wrong place describes ace Liverpool striker Fernando Torres the best. After his wonderful season in 2007/08 Liverpool couldnot afford any titles as they lack players in other sections of the field.
This year, with Robbie Keane partnering him towards the goal post Liverpool can hope of any miracles. But Torres is the key player, and if he scores 40+ goals and Keane adds some then who knows, they might pull off something. Afterall football isn't always prediaction.
4 - Cesc Fabregas
Club: Arsenal
Position: Central midfielder
Young and refreshing, Cesc will return to Arsenal with winning memories of Euro Cup winning. Arsenal has lost its top players this summer, but Samir Nasri's inclusion in the team could do some young-wonders for Arsenal.
Cesc Fabregas's performance, both in international and club football has been promising, but comparisions of him with Thierry Henry is like expecting a lot from the young legs.
5 - Jo
Club: Manchester City
Position: Striker
This Brazilian International is no easy customer to deal with. All of 21, the product from South American soccer giant Brazil, Jo will have to play a huge role in Man City because of their financial problems to bring in good players.
6 - Peter Crouch
Club: Portsmouth
Position: Striker
The tallest player in EPL with 6'7", Crouch is considered by many as a under-rated player. With a goal per game ratio of 2 for national team England, his presence in Liverpool was nothing more than a substitute. He surely has found a right place to play in.
This was our list of some players to watch out for this season. Let us know which players found a place in your list of favorites. http://soccergauge.blogspot.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amrit_Swain [http://ezinearticles.com/?English-Premier-League-Players-to-Watch-For-This-Season-(2008-2009)&id=1430288 ]http://EzineArticles.com/?English-Premier-League-Players-to-Watch-For-This-Season-(2008-2009)&id=1430288
P.S. : Season on season stars are born in the most prestigious and glamorous league of the world. Be it goal-machine Cristiano Ronaldo or the prolific Chelsea scorer Didier Drogba or Liverpool striker Fernando Torres, everyone plays for a reason. Fame, money and substance follows the best in the breed.
By Amrit Swain
Now let us look at the players who are favorites for this season of Barclays Premier League :
1 - Cristiano Ronaldo
Club: Manchester United
Position: Winger
The best and safest bet to put your money on is Cristiano Ronaldo. He has been the buzz of the summer regarding his transfer to Spanish club Real Madrid. And why not, we are talking of a player who scored 42 goals in a season, winning his team both Premier League and UEFA Champion's league. With the news that he's going to stay ateast for one more season at Old Trafford ManU fans can expect their third consecutive Premiership title this season.
While Sir Alex Ferguson is yet to sign a striker for the team (most proabaly Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov), Ronaldo along with Wayne Roonay and Tevez forms one of the most lethal forward line-up to face with. If he continues his scoring streak, he surely is the best that Premiership can offer this season.
2 - Didier Drogba
Club: Chelsea
Position: Striker
He has done it before and he can do it again. To win big games for Chelsea. A prolif striker of the ball Didier Drogab is the only player whose presence gives Chelsea any hopes of winning titles this season.
With both Premiership and UEFA Championship's loss to rivals Manchester United being very close, Drogba will be accompanied this time by ex-Barcelona
playmaker Deco to fill up th gaps. World Cup wiining coach Luis Felipe Scolari will also accompany them for the titles this season.
3 - Fernando Torres
Club: Liverpool
Position: Striker
Right man in right time at wrong place describes ace Liverpool striker Fernando Torres the best. After his wonderful season in 2007/08 Liverpool couldnot afford any titles as they lack players in other sections of the field.
This year, with Robbie Keane partnering him towards the goal post Liverpool can hope of any miracles. But Torres is the key player, and if he scores 40+ goals and Keane adds some then who knows, they might pull off something. Afterall football isn't always prediaction.
4 - Cesc Fabregas
Club: Arsenal
Position: Central midfielder
Young and refreshing, Cesc will return to Arsenal with winning memories of Euro Cup winning. Arsenal has lost its top players this summer, but Samir Nasri's inclusion in the team could do some young-wonders for Arsenal.
Cesc Fabregas's performance, both in international and club football has been promising, but comparisions of him with Thierry Henry is like expecting a lot from the young legs.
5 - Jo
Club: Manchester City
Position: Striker
This Brazilian International is no easy customer to deal with. All of 21, the product from South American soccer giant Brazil, Jo will have to play a huge role in Man City because of their financial problems to bring in good players.
6 - Peter Crouch
Club: Portsmouth
Position: Striker
The tallest player in EPL with 6'7", Crouch is considered by many as a under-rated player. With a goal per game ratio of 2 for national team England, his presence in Liverpool was nothing more than a substitute. He surely has found a right place to play in.
This was our list of some players to watch out for this season. Let us know which players found a place in your list of favorites. http://soccergauge.blogspot.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amrit_Swain [http://ezinearticles.com/?English-Premier-League-Players-to-Watch-For-This-Season-(2008-2009)&id=1430288 ]http://EzineArticles.com/?English-Premier-League-Players-to-Watch-For-This-Season-(2008-2009)&id=1430288
P.S. : Season on season stars are born in the most prestigious and glamorous league of the world. Be it goal-machine Cristiano Ronaldo or the prolific Chelsea scorer Didier Drogba or Liverpool striker Fernando Torres, everyone plays for a reason. Fame, money and substance follows the best in the breed.
By Amrit Swain
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