Right Job Would Tempt Coleman

Coleman recently quit as coach of Spanish second division side Real Sociedad after just six months in charge citing outside interference as their reason.

The Welshman’s name was mentioned in connection with the Newcastle job until Kevin Keegan was appointed, but he has revealed he is no hurry to return to the game.

"I've been doing it for the last five years so maybe a bit of time off won't do me any harm" he told the BBC.

"But if something comes up and you think it could be a good one, then you're going to go for it" he admitted.

Coleman quit the Spanish club after a row with new club president Inaki Badiola, who went over his head to sign players.

"One stipulation I made in my contract was that I was allowed to buy and sell my own players and he agreed but I know he went back on that because the first player who came through the door was not my signing," Coleman explained.

Parreira: England Manager Should Be English

Parreira, who has managed Brazil and Saudi Arabia at World Cups claims there is enough talent in this country, not to have had to resort to hiring Italian Fabio Capello.

"The foreign countries that I've worked with have not had the qualified coaches to take over for a big competition," he said.

"But the English school for producing coaches is a good system and I don't think the English national team need a foreign coach.

"I can't believe that in the first, second, third and fourth divisions you could not find somebody able to coach the national team. I've nothing against Sven-Goran Eriksson or Fabio Capello, whom I respect and are good coaches, but I think the national coach should be someone from England.

"Perhaps the press are too harsh and don't give enough credit to the local coaches. I cannot imagine Argentina or Brazil or even the Italian or German national teams ever having a foreign coach - especially Brazil. I just cannot imagine it and I don't think it will ever happen" he added.

The experienced coach also had words of advice for the incoming Italian trainer.

"When somebody goes from one country to another country to take a job as the national coach it is not only a question of knowing about football" Parreira explained.

"It is a question of learning the culture, the style, the history of the country's football. This is so important. You must read about and study the football culture and the big players in the country's history.

"You can't just come to a country and revolutionise everything. Any coach who comes to Brazil has to respect the ball-possession and the pace of the game there. You cannot change that.

"Whatever the style is, the English direct game or the German pressing game, you have to respect the school which has been there for a hundred years. You can't change that or adjust it to your philosophy."

Arsenal Back To Winning Ways With Fulham Win Fulham 0-3 Arsenal Two first half goals from Emmanuel Adebayor and a third late in the second from To

Arsene Wenger witnessed the ideal response to last weekend’s home draw with Birmingham as his Arsenal side cruised to a 3-0 win over London rivals Fulham.

Two first half headers from Emmanuel Adebayor put them firmly in control, before the Gunners put the finishing touch on a dominant performance with a third from Rosicky ten minutes from the end.

Fulham's new signing Brede Hangeland did not complete his deal in time to play, while Jimmy Bullard was on the bench following a long time out with a serious knee injury.

Arsenal winger Tomas Rosicky returned after a virus but the Gunners were otherwise unchanged from the side which drew with Birmingham last week. Theo Walcott again missed out completely; with Toure, Eboue and Song of course all on duty at the African Cup of Nations.

First Half

The home side began the game with five across the middle as they looked to choke the fluidity of the Arsenal midfield, which was understandable for a side without a win in 11 games.

There was plenty of competitiveness in the midfield area in the first five minutes without any real chances being created. Fulham were doing their bit attempting to take the game to the visitors. On seven minutes Seol was played in well by Murphy, only to dither and see Clichy race back to clear the danger.

Soon after, Danny Murphy wasted a good chance when he fired his shot well over after some good work down the right by former Arsenal player Moritz Volz. Arsenal produced their first chance after ten minutes when Fabregas failed to connect properly following good build up play from Clichy and Hleb down the left.

With the first fifteen minutes gone, Arsenal were settling into their normal passing routine and seemed to be finding their rhythm.

That manifested itself on 19 minutes with the opening goal. Gael Clichy was fed superbly down the left by Rosicky before he produced an inviting cross from the bye-line. Emmanuel Adebayor rose early to beat two defenders and head past a motionless Anti Niemi to put Arsenal ahead.

The Gunners then took control of the game, pushing forward looking for a second goal. They dominated possession and were constantly probing at the Fulham back line.

The second goal duly arrived on 39 minutes from the same source as the first. The ball this time came from the right after Hleb worked himself into some space and delivered a good cross, Adebayor again rose early, guiding his header past a wrong-footed Niemi to put Arsene Wenger’s side firmly in control.

With the game seemingly under control, Fulham did have a great chance to get their noses back into the game with an opportunity just before the interval. Danny Murphy was again the guilty party as he fired wildly over the crossbar from 10 yards after receiving a super cut-back.

Second Half

Roy Hodgson sent on Jimmy Bullard at the start of the second half, resisting the temptation of bringing on a second striker.

Arsenal continued to press and created the first good chance of the second half. Eduardo bypassed two Fulham defenders with ease wide on the left before cutting the ball back to Tomas Rosicky. The Czech midfielder was unlucky to see his shot crash off the post and away for a goal kick.

The anticipated introduction of a second striker from Fulham duly arrived five minutes into the second period with David Healy, scorer of Fulham’s goal on the opening weekend against Arsenal, replacing Seol Ki-Hyeon.

The Gunners seemed to be cruising as the second half proceeded with it looking like they could score if it was absolutely necessary, but content to just toy with the Craven Cottage side.

Fulham did work a good opportunity on 70 minutes and had the ball in the back of the net only for the linesman to flag for offside. A Bullard cross from the right saw three Fulham players lining up to convert. Clint Dempsey rose to head past Almunia, but with Gallas leading the line and stepping up; the offside flag duly stopped any celebrations.

Arsenal deserved a third on 78 minutes after a superb move; Hleb bamboozled Fulham down the right and looked impossible to knock off the ball before feeding Fabregas through for a shot on goal; unfortunately the Spanish youngster was unable to put the finishing touch on a great move.

Not to be denied, the Gunners put the gloss on a commanding performance with a third goal on 81 minutes. Eduardo took the ball to the bye-line before cutting the ball back. Even late in the game, Rosicky showed great endeavour to burst into the penalty area and volley past Niemi.

With the game wrapped up, it seemed more humane for the referee to call time on the game with the Gunners rampant. If it had been a boxing bout, that is exactly what would have happened.

As it was, Arsenal reacted superbly to their loss of points last weekend to grab an important win in this London derby.

Line-ups:

Fulham:

Niemi, Volz, Hughes, Stefanovic, Bocanegra, Ki-Hyeon (Healy 51), Smertin (Kuqi 78), Davis (Bullard 46), Murphy, Davies, Dempsey

Subs not used: Warner, Baird

Arsenal:

Almunia, Sagna, Senderos, Gallas, Clichy, Fabregas, Hleb, Flamini, Rosicky, Adebayor, Eduardo

Subs not used: Lehmann, Hoyte, Diaby, Silva, Bendtner

Goals

0-1 Adebayor (19)

0-2 Adebayor (39)

0-3 Rosicky (81)

Cards:

Yellow: Clichy (66)

Attendance: 25,297

Referee: Peter Walton

Prem Preview: Manchester City - West Ham What: Barclays Premier League Who: Manchester City (7th, 39 points) Vs West Ham United (10th, 32 points) W

Manchester City and West Ham go head-to-head for the fourth time this season with both sides hoping to secure all three points and propel them up the table.

While many pundits would have you believe that Sven-Göran Eriksson’s honeymoon period in charge of Manchester City is well and truly over, with the top five place that seemed so achievable during the first-half of the season slipping from their grasp, in truth it is not all doom and gloom.

The 1-0 away defeat to Everton in City’s last league match sent them tumbling three places to seventh, but their thirty-nine points is equal to fourth-placed Liverpool’s tally.

Though City have admittedly struggled in recent weeks, securing just two wins in their last nine league outings, they have encountered high-fliers Aston Villa, Blackburn and Liverpool and walked away with a draw. While the club’s fans would feel more at ease had their team managed to continue their winning streak at home, at the midway point in the season they will be satisfied with the club’s situation.

Their opponents on Sunday, West Ham, are looking increasingly capable of establishing themselves in the top-ten following their disastrous campaign last season, and six wins and four draws in their last thirteen games has seen them climb to tenth-place.

With a fit-again Dean Ashton in the side, who already looks as though he has found his match sharpness following a lengthy lay-off, and Anton Ferdinand growing in stature in defence, the East-Londoner’s prospects look increasingly positive.

It is surprising that Eriksson has not opted to foray into the transfer market to add to his strike-force, with Roland Bianchi eying a return to Italy with Lazio touted as potential suitors and Valeri Bojinov struggling to assert himself in England.

Darius Vassell has found himself in the starting line-up of late, and while the former Aston Villa forward can’t be accused of a lack of effort, he doesn’t offer the potency required for a side that has the defensive and midfield quality to threaten the top-five.

Such attacking inadequacy has added pressure to the midfield to weigh-in with goals themselves, and though the on-form Martin Petrov, arguably the most impressive left-sided midfield in the league so far, and the equally effective Elano have scored nine between them in the league, the fans will be expecting Eriksson to invest some of Thaksin Shinawatra’s fortune in a consistent goal-scorer.

West Ham will undoubtedly look to stifle the two midfielders, limiting the service from the left that has proven successful for the home side, and you have to go back to March 2006 for the last time this fixture contained more than two goals which suggests that a goal may be sufficient to win the game.

Interestingly, a quarter of City’s goals have come just before half-time, so Curbishley will instruct his men not to follow suit, although in three of the club’s last five league games, they have come from 1-0 down to win so the manager won’t be overly concerned should they go into the break behind.

City will have the psychological edge going into the encounter having defeated the visitors 1-0 on Wednesday in their FA Cup Third Round replay (the original tie finished 0-0), thus eliminating The Blues from the competition, which followed their 2-0 win at Upton Park in the opening fixture of the season. Curbishley will be keen for his side to avoid what would be there fourth successive defeat to City in the league as they look to overtake Portsmouth in ninth place, and the visitors have yet to lose in the nine games they have taken the lead which bodes well if they can score early.

West Ham’s treatment room is becoming increasingly vacated as the likes of Luis Boa Morte, Lee Bowyer and Julien Faubert, who all played a major role in Wednesday’s game, return and it is no surprise that The Hammers’ fine form of late has coincided with the availability of key men.

Man City remain unbeaten at home, with only their arch-rivals from across the city Man Utd and second-placed Arsenal bettering their record, and it is on such imperious form at the City of Manchester stadium that they have built their season around. West Ham, though, have not disappointed on tee road, with sixteen points from thirty a steady return for The Hammers, a more productive points-return than their home form which has seen them take the same number of points having played an extra game at Upton Park.

It’ll be a close encounter between the sides, and judging by comments Eriksson made to the press in the aftermath of their midweek victory over The Hammers, he is expecting his side to find their attacking flare once again as they reignite their bid for a top-five finish.

WHAT THE TEAMS SAY

Man City’s impressive young goalkeeper Joe Hart feels that the encounter will be decided in defence and is confident that the home side’s “awesome” back-line will prove to be the difference.

“When Nedum’s played he’s been as solid as a rock. Charlie’s been playing anyway so he’s just slotted back in,” the 20-year old said. “Dunnie (Richard Dunne) and Micah (Richards) are just awesome and (Michael) Bally’s been doing his bit too. We’ve got each other’s back, that’s the way it is and long may that continue.”

West Ham manager Curbishley is looking for his side to leave the City of Manchester stadium three points better off and continue their pursuit of the teams above them.

“If we can get a result on Sunday, we may catch one of the teams above us. We are pushing, we are looking to the games, and looking to try and get into that top six, seven or eight. Portsmouth are catchable and it is something that we have got to be looking at now.”

FORM

Man City
Match
Result
Date
Competition

Man City – West Ham
1 - 0
16/01/2008
FA Cup

Everton - Man City
1 - 0
12/01/2008
PREMIER LEAGUE

West Ham - Man City
0 - 0
05/01/2008
FA CUP

Newcastle - Man City
0 - 2
02/01/2008
PREMIER LEAGUE

Man City - Liverpool
0 - 0
30/12/2007
PREMIER LEAGUE

Man City - Blackburn
2 - 2
27/12/2007
PREMIER LEAGUE


West Ham United
Match
Result
Date
Competition

Manc City – West Ham
0 - 1
16/01/2008
FA Cup

West Ham - Fulham
2 - 1
12/01/2008
PREMIER LEAGUE

West Ham - Man City
0 - 0
05/01/2008
FA CUP

Arsenal - West Ham
2 - 0
01/01/2008
PREMIER LEAGUE

West Ham - Man Utd.
2 - 1
29/12/2007
PREMIER LEAGUE

West Ham - Reading
1 - 1
26/12/2007
PREMIER LEAGUE


HEAD-TO-HEADS

16 January 2008 – Manchester City 1-0 West Ham United (FA Cup)

5 January 2008 - West Ham United 0-0 Manchester City (FA Cup)

11 August 2007 - West Ham United 0-2 Manchester City

30 December 2006 - West Ham United 0-1 Manchester City

23 September 2006 - Manchester City 2-0 West Ham United

15 April 2006 - West Ham United 1-0 Manchester City

TEAM NEWS

Manchester City

Results of medical examination have revealed that new-signing Nery Castillo broke a bone in his shoulder during the midweek FA Cup clash, disappointing news for Eriksson who faces losing the creative forward for six weeks. Valeri Bojinov (knee), Daniel Sturridge (calf), Michael Johnson (ankle) and Emile Mpenza (hamstring) all miss out.

Last Starting XI (Vs West Ham) (4-1-4-1): Hart – Corluka, Richards, Dunne, Ball – Hamann – Ireland, Elano, Castillo (Bianchi 35), Petrov – Vassell (Gelson 81)

Subs not used – Schmeichel, Onuoha, Garrido

West Ham United

Luis Boa Morte, Lee Bowyer and Julien Faubert all came through the midweek clash unscathed and are expected to line-up for the visitors. Craig Bellamy (abdomen), Keiron Dyer (broken leg) and Bobby Zamora (knee) remain sidelined but the trio taking part in light training sessions and are improving each week.

Last Starting XI (Vs Man City) (4-4-1-1): Green – Neill, Ferdinand, Upson, McCartney – Ljungberg (Faubert 62), Bowyer, Noble, Etherington – Boa Morte (Cole 71) – Ashton

Subs not used – Wright, Mullins, Spector

PLAYER TO WATCH

Manchester City: Martin Petrov

The Bulgarian-winger has been one of the buys of the season, already hitting four goals, and seems to be at the heart of every Man City attack. Has pace to beat his man and possesses one of the best crosses in the league meaning West Ham will have to try and force him in-field if they are to prevent the 28-year old from creating openings for the City attack.

West Ham United: Luis Boa Morte

The Portuguese international looked sharp against City in the midweek clash and is a menace to defences when he has the ball at his feet. Is prone to look for free-kicks and penalties when he receives the ball in and around the penalty area, and with the quick feet he has, the City defence will have to be wary of bringing the 30-year old down.

PREDICTION

It could well be the drab affair we witnessed on Wednesday night in the FA Cup clash, with both sides looking to score first and then defend deep, but an early goal could ignite the game and allow the flair players such as Boa Morte, Elano and Petrov to illuminate the game.

Man City 1 – 1 West Ham

Barclays Premier League Weekend Preview: Round 23 Mushtaq Quraishi previews this weekend's Barclays Premier League programme and highlights all the k

Kevin Keegan’s appointment as Newcastle boss has brought a shock to the footballing world, but there are some important questions to be answered by him over the coming weeks. How much will he need to spend to make the club successful? Can he build a good relationship with Michael Owen? Will Alan Shearer join him as number two at the club? Whatever the responses, Newcastle are definitely in for a change under their favourite man.

The other crisis club in the league, Liverpool, have been in the news every day this week too. The two American owners sparked another row after admitting they had approached Jurgen Klinsmann about the manager’s job at Anfield just in case Rafa left. Also, with the owners' financial problems, it seems like Liverpool fans’ dreams are about to come true, as the Americans look to sell up.

This week some interesting fixtures in the Premiership, with the return ties of the first games of the season taking place. As the end of the season looms closer, the bottom half of the table looks very tight, with eight or so clubs within touching distance of the relegation zone. There is heat at the top of the table too, with Manchester United currently in top spot, albeit thanks to goal difference.

Mushtaq Quraishi looks ahead to another exciting week in the league…

Saturday 19 January

Birmingham City v Chelsea

After holding Arsenal last weekend, Birmingham should go into this game brimming with confidence. Alex McLeish has solidified the squad and they look full of belief. The Blues boss is trying exceptionally hard to bring in some more players during the transfer window, the most prolific being McFadden from Everton. The Toffees have now accepted a bid of around 5.5 million pounds for the sensational Scot. But Birmingham are level on points with eighteenth placed Sunderland and McLeish’s side know they are only out of the bottom three thanks to goal difference. So it is vitally important Birmingham keep up their decent recent performances and get a few wins under their belts soon. Having McFadden should help.

Chelsea are now only four points behind leaders Manchester United in the league and Avram Grant has every intention of closing that gap even further. The Israeli has brought in Nicolas Anelka and defender Ivanovic within the space of a week, outlining his objectives for an ever-growing squad. Chelsea have been weakened by the loss of players to the African Cup of Nations, but their recent performances certainly aren’t showing these problems. Five wins in a row in all competitions sees Chelsea in one of their best runs of the current season and one can only imagine how good they could be if John Terry and Frank Lampard weren’t injured. Chelsea must continue their recent form as they look set to push table-toppers Manchester United to the limit.

If Chelsea hadn’t signed Anelka last week, then this game could well have ended in a stalemate. After all, Birmingham did hold Arsenal last time out and they are a half decent side, willing to give all just to stay in the league. Chelsea on the other hand must continue their impressive run of form to maintain the pressure on United and Arsenal. I think Chelsea should grab the win, though Birmingham will try their best to hold the Londoners.

Prediction: 0-2


Blackburn Rovers v Middlesbrough

Blackburn's recent resurgence in form has seen the side edge closer to the much-coveted fourth spot. Rovers are only three points behind the last Champions League spot now, as Hughes’ side look forward to a successful second half of the season. December’s player of the month Roque Santa Cruz has been in sparkling form over the festive period and will look to continue his impressive goal-scoring streak here. Blackburn fans and players will be delighted at Kevin Keegan’s managerial appointment at Newcastle, seeing as Mark Hughes is now safely secure at the club now, at least until the next vacancy! Rovers need to sign a central-midfielder during January after the departure of Robbie Savage to Derby, but until then Tugay and Stephen Reid look capable of doing well in the middle of the park.

Fourteenth placed Middlesbrough are another side exceptionally close to the drop zone, as Southgate’s side hover only a point above the relegation spots. But recent performances have shown terrific organisation from Boro, especially after they held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw last time out. But a big criticism of the side is their inconsistency, which has seen them do well against the ‘big’ teams, but struggle against the easier sides. Southgate’s men must treat every game with respect and make sure they get a win and move on. As for transfers, it seems like Afonso Alves won’t be moving to Teeside after all, after a mix-up in the situation. Therefore, Boro must set their sights on another striker.

As always, Blackburn are quite solid in front of their home fans and they will make this game tough for Boro. Rovers have some beautifully placed wingers, top-class strikers and a tight defence. If Boro play like they did against Liverpool, they could win this game. However they have proved difficult to predict this season, so I tip Blackburn for the slender win.

Prediction: 1-0


Fulham v Arsenal

Five points from safety, it isn’t comfortable at all for Fulham and new boss Roy Hodgson. The manager has seen the quality of his side over the last couple of weeks and knows there are some good players in his squad. However, I’m sure many will have pointed out the ‘bad apples’ in his side, as he looks to transform the club into an attractive prospect. He has a big job on his hands and it is vital that new players are signed soon in order to help the club survive. Their previous game saw the Cottagers lose 2-1 against West Ham, with yet another away defeat.

Arsenal slipped up against Birmingham and they now lie second in the table behind Manchester United. The Gunners were considerably weakened thanks to the loss of a few defenders to the African Cup of Nations. But that was always going to be the problem for the side and they will now have to adapt to life without these key men, at least for the next month. Wenger doesn’t look like he will spend money during the transfer window and who can blame him? His side are still well and truly in the running for the title and events over the last month have shown some exciting twists and turns at the top.

For Fulham, it will just be a bonus game and they will look to keep the score low. Arsenal will want to bounce back from last weekend's draw, therefore I think they will win this game comfortably.

Prediction: 0-2


Portsmouth v Derby County

Portsmouth’s recent slip in form has been predictable, especially after the club lost many players to the African Cup of Nations and the ongoing saga of Harry Redknapp’s future. The side are losing their way in their quest to finish in a European spot come the end of the season and Redknapp will have to replace his African players as soon as possible if his side are to maintain their current good league position. I don’t think Pompey will be that frightened of Derby County, nevertheless they shouldn’t be too complacent.

Derby will go into this game with the same mentality as they have had over the last couple of months. The players are giving it a real go and deserve a win in the near future, just to help their confidence. Derby are also signing players from everywhere, with the likes of Laurent Robert and Robbie Savage joining the club over the last couple of weeks. But Derby will have to win a game as soon as possible if they are to stand any chance of cutting down the thirteen point gap which would see them edge into safety.

This is a chance for Portsmouth to get back on track and produce a good, morale-boosting win. Derby will be gunning to do the same and it is about time they found a victory too, nevertheless, despite missing key players, I think Portsmouth should be able to scrape a win.

Prediction: 1-0


Reading v Manchester United

Steve Coppell’s Reading side go into this game without a win in six. The Royals' FA Cup Third Round Replay against Tottenham ended in a 1-0 defeat, sending the side crashing out of the competition. And a 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa prior to that effectively brought Reading back into the relegation mix in the bottom half of the league. Despite holding a seemingly comfortable thirteenth position in the Premiership, Reading are only two points above the drop zone. The side will need to start playing some good football again, as they did against Liverpool a couple of months ago. Reading have been like Middlesbrough in terms of consistency this campaign and it is almost impossible to predict how they will play.

Manchester United are enjoying life at the top of the Premiership, albeit on goal difference. But it now looks as if Sir Alex Ferguson’s side will stay at the top for a while now. United have an exceptional squad full of some of the most talented players in the world. Cristiano Ronaldo showed his excellence by scoring a hat-trick last time out and he is key to some of the Red Devils' main movements. Though there will still be some twists and turns at the top end of the table for the remainder of the season, United do have enough in their side to win the league once again.

This is a chance for Manchester United to consolidate their position at the top of the table, though for Reading it is a chance to cause yet another shock against another one of the ‘top four’. But it doesn’t seem as if United will slip up here.

Prediction: 0-2


Tottenham Hotspur v Sunderland

In-form Tottenham have improved by leaps and bounds under Juande Ramos and are now pushing for a top-ten finish come the end of the season. A 1-0 win over Reading saw Spurs reach the fourth round of the FA Cup where they will now face Manchester United. Ramos has chopped and changed his front players many a time since his arrival and this effective rotation is paying dividends for the side. The team are also very confident on the ball and look like their old selves. But there is still some improvement needed and some strengthening of the squad yet to do before they can realistically challenge for a top six spot again. But they are definitely moving in the right direction.

Had it not been for goal difference, Sunderland would be clear of danger at this stage of the season. However, due to early season defensive problems, the Black Cats occupy eighteenth spot. But Keane’s side haven’t been all bad recently, managing two wins in their last three Premiership games. Kieran Richardson has clearly been the shining star over Sunderland’s recently improved performances and has netted a few times to help his side out. The former Manchester United starlet looks well suited to Sunderland’s attitude of play and he will do well for them for the remainder of the season. With Richardson and the intelligence of Jones up front, Sunderland look more than capable of staying up. They are clearly able to win games as they have shown over the last month and I think it is only time before they starting pushing up the table.

Both sides spent heavily in the Summer, both sides started the campaign fairly badly but both sides are finally beginning to improve. It is more important for Sunderland to win this game, so that they can slide out of the relegation zone, however Spurs will also want to move far ahead of other relegation contenders. It is all set up for an exciting game and I think this game will end in a draw.

Prediction: 1-1


Newcastle United v Bolton Wanderers

With Harry Redknapp, Mark Hughes and Gerard Houllier all tipped to become Newcastle’s new manager, it came as a surprise and shock to many when the board appointed Kevin Keegan as their manager. The ‘legend’ returned for yet another spell at the club as he hopes to bring the Magpies some much-yearned-for success. Can he succeed? Will he appoint Shearer as his number two? These are a few questions that will be answered over the coming weeks, but for now let’s just hope Michael Owen and Kevin Keegan can get over their past troubles!

Bolton are another side on only twenty points this season, so they are also dangerously flirting with the relegation spots. With only one win in five, the side’s recent results haven’t been very good at all. But their style of football is still reasonably capable of keeping them in this league. The defeat to Blackburn last time out saw Bolton outplayed at times and no doubt they will face this prospect many a time for the remainder of the season, however they will have to improve their attacking options if they are to stand any chance of staying up this season. The Trotters are certainly not as sharp without Nicolas Anelka.

Newcastle’s resounding win over Stoke in the FA Cup as well as the appointment of Kevin Keegan as boss has brought an air of confidence and delight back around the city. It will take some time for Keegan to impose his managerial style on the squad, therefore I don’t think they will show great improvement very quickly, however expect each player to put in a good performance, just to show the new man what they are capable of.

Prediction: 2-2


Sunday 20 January

Wigan Athletic v Everton

Steve Bruce’s troubled Wigan side face in-form Everton this weekend, with the Latics hoping to find a win and move away from danger. Wigan have had some good patches of form this campaign but at other times they have been simply awful. This has lead to their lingering around the bottom three for most of the season. Steve Bruce hasn’t made much of a difference to the club, however he is trying to instill some confidence into his side, as well as that battling spirit, which saw him do well with Birmingham. Wigan may have to plunge into the transfer market if they are to survive; especially after most of their relegation contenders are spending money signing new talent.

Everton look to keep up the pressure on Merseyside rivals Liverpool, as both sides once again contend for the coveted fourth Champions League spot. Everton are currently fifth in the league and are playing some very good football indeed. They have lost some players to the African Cup of Nations, the most notable being Yakubu. The striker was doing exceptionally well for the Toffees before his departure, so Everton’s main problem will be scoring goals. But they have a midfield perfectly capable of chipping in with the goals, with the likes of Cahill, Osman and Arteta all making up an attacking proposition.

I think Everton will edge this game. They have a talented squad and a very offensive game plan. Wigan will give it their best shot, but Everton tend to do very well against teams of Wigan’s calibre.

Prediction: 0-1

Manchester City v West Ham United

Wednesday’s FA Cup replay saw these sides square up to each other before this important league game. That replay saw Manchester City victorious, thanks to an Elano header, earning them a 1-0 win. But West Ham seemed to match City for most of the game and they will feel hard done by after such a decent display. But the Hammers have a chance to make amends as they face City for the second time in five days.

Manchester City’s super trio of Elano, Petrov and Bianchi are doing some real damage to the opposition every time they go forward. Petrov is playing particularly well, as he consistently puts brilliant balls into the box and his teasing runs trick defenders. But when Petrov is not in sight, star-man Elano threatens to carve out an inch-perfect pass from the central area of the field, which ends up at the feet of Bianchi, who isn’t in the best goal-scoring form at the minute, but his intelligent play is clearly helping the City side win games. Sven has got the perfect blend of awareness, creativity and flair in his squad and I think they will finish in the top six.

West Ham have been brilliant this season as they look to finish in the top ten come the end of this campaign. Dean Ashton is notably their star-man, the striker causing all sorts of problems in and around the penalty area. However, without Bellamy, West Ham lose some attacking potential in their squad. But their performance against City on Wednesday showed they are courageous and can create chances when going forward, so they are more than capable of upsetting City.

This game will be exactly like the one on Wednesday, but I think this time it will end in a draw. West Ham showed enough that night to prove they can give City a game and this game should be more exciting than Wednesday’s.

Prediction: 1-1


Monday 21 January

Liverpool v Aston Villa

Liverpool are in a crisis at the moment, with all sorts of problems off the field. With the two American owners publicly admitting holding talks with Jurgen Klinsmann over possibly taking the reins at Anfield, many fans have simply turned their backs on the owners. Fans would rather Benitez stayed than his employers! And that looks likely now, after the financial problems which are stopping the club moving forward with new stadium plans. DIC, the Dubai company are now expected to make a bid for Tom Hicks’ share in the club, much to the delight of Liverpool fans around the globe. After all, why don’t the owners just let Benitez do his job rather than hint at his departure every other day? Back on the field, Liverpool’s win over Luton in the FA Cup replay has earned them a decent tie against non-league Havant & Waterlooville. It will be interesting to see how Benitez approaches that game!

Aston Villa are another side trying to take fourth spot in the league and they are currently very close behind their hosts, Liverpool. Martin O’Neill has built an experienced, quick and young team full of talented players. The side played out an entertaining 4-4 draw with Chelsea around a month ago and though this game probably won’t end like that, it just shows Villa’s attacking options and ability going forward. One thing is for sure - Aston Villa will give Liverpool an incredibly tough game.

Liverpool have the better squad and with Steven Gerrard in top-form, it seems as if the Reds are favourites to win this game. It was Gerrard’s late free-kick which got Liverpool all three points on the opening day of the season and I expect a similar result here.

Prediction: 2-1

 

Prem Preview: Birmingham - Chelsea What: Barclays Premier League Who: Birmingham City (16th, 20pts) v. Chelsea (3rd, 47pts) When: Saturday, 19th Ja

It’s the Blues versus the Blues at St. Andrews in the return match of the season’s opening day.


Birmingham - A Thorn In The Side Of The Big Four


Birmingham secured another tremendous result against one of the league’s top sides last Saturday as they pegged Arsenal back to a 1-1 draw at the Emirates.


Overrun at first, Alex McLeish’s side rode their luck and then took their chance before valiantly holding on against a Gunners onslaught.


That followed a game at Old Trafford in which they were unfortunate to take nothing from a lethargic United. They also got a 0-0 draw at Anfield, but Birmingham aren’t only about compact football and negative draws.


Their 3-0 thrashing of Middlesbrough and tremendous 3-2 win at Tottenham proved their ability to bomb forward and smash in goals – particularly on the counter attack.


Never was that more evident than on the opening day against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, where they took the lead through Mikael Forssell, got back to 2-2 thanks to Kapo’s thunderbolt, but eventually lost out to Essien’s winner.


Former Chelsea man Forssell says the Londoners can expect more of the same this time around. "There is certainly no point in sitting back against Chelsea,” explained the Finnish international. “I believe every time we push on and try to score a goal it actually takes the pressure off our defence."


The Blues have been spending money under new boss McLeish but the team really need points – they only lie above the relegation zone on goal difference.



Can Chelsea Close The Gap To The Frontrunners?

After numerous dour but generally effective displays Chelsea kicked things up a notch last weekend with an impressive 2-0 win over Tottenham. Juliano Belletti proved he only scores great goals with yet another spectacular long-range effort, while great work from Joe Cole put through Shaun Wright-Phillips to double Chelsea’s lead.

Avram Grant’s side have registered seven wins and two draws from their last ten Premier League games, and have lost just one in 25 in all competitions. The Blues remain third in the table, but crucially they are now nearer to front two United and Arsenal (4pt gap) than Liverpool in fourth (8pts).

Chelsea are missing many key players as the African Cup of Nations prepares to kick off, but regardless they possess a strength in depth most Premiership sides do not have. And with £15m signing Nicolas Anelka now leading the front line the Blues have one of the most highly rated strikers in the league at their disposal. What is more, most of the midfielders are capable of chipping in with regular goals, while the defence has consistently proven its stability.

Despite their indifferent start, this Chelsea squad is easily of the quality of those that won back-to-back championships in 2005 and 2006. But a win on Saturday is a must to remain hot on the heels of the league’s front two – the good news for fans is that they’ve never lost against Birmingham in the Premier League.


FORM GUIDE

Birmingham Match Result Date Championship
Arsenal - Birmingham 1 - 1 12/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Huddersfield Town - Birmingham 1 - 2 05/01/2008 FA CUP
Man Utd. - Birmingham 1 - 0 01/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Birmingham - Fulham 1 - 1 29/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Birmingham - Middlesbrough 3 - 0 26/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Bolton - Birmingham 3 - 0 22/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE



Chelsea
Match Result Date Championship
Chelsea - Tottenham 2 - 0 12/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Chelsea - Everton 2 - 1 08/01/2008 CARLING CUP
Chelsea - QPR 1 - 0 05/01/2008 FA CUP
Fulham - Chelsea 1 - 2 01/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Chelsea - Newcastle 2 - 1 29/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Chelsea - Aston Villa 4 - 4 26/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE


TEAM NEWS

Birmingham

The Blues have completed the signing of James McFadden but the Scot wasn’t registered in time for this match. Elsewhere, Damien Johnson missed training in the week with a sore back but isn’t likely to miss out. McLeish will probably stick with the same XI that drew with Arsenal, leaving new signing David Murphy, who’s just recovered from a hamstring injury, on the bench.

Likely XI (4-4-2): Taylor – Kelly, Ridgewell, Schmitz, Queudreu – Larson, Muamba, Johnson, Kapo – O’Connor, Jerome

Chelsea

Frank Lampard is back in training but it’s unclear whether Avram Grant will put him straight into the starting line-up. John Terry is definitely out as he continues to recover from a foot injury and Andriy Shevchenko is also sidelined. Drogba, Kalou, Obi and Essien are all on international duty but Nicolas Anelka could make his full debut and latest signing Branislav Ivanovic is also available for selection.

Likely XI (4-4-2 diamond): Cech – Belletti, Carvalho, Alex, A Cole – Makalele – Malouda, Wright-Phillips – Ballack – Anelka, J Cole


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Birmingham – Liam Ridgewell

The former Villa man has become a real fan favourite since moving across Birmingham in the summer. And with displays such as last week’s at Arsenal, it’s easy to see why. The centre-back was dogged and committed as he batted almost everything the Gunners threw at the Birmingham goal. Ridgewell and the rest of the back four may need a repeat performance against Chelsea on Saturday.

Chelsea – Florent Malouda (pictured)

Birmingham have taken points from Arsenal and Liverpool and forced Manchester United to work hard by packing the midfield and defending resolutely. If Chelsea want to break the Blues, they may need to do so from wide areas. Shaun Wright-Phillips has utilised his run of games to great effect, and now Florent Malouda, recently returned from injury, will be looking to emulate the feat. The pacy Frenchman has netted just once in the league since joining from Lyon, but would be equally happy to provide a winning assist


PREDICTION

Birmingham are one of those lesser sides who are incredibly tough for better teams to beat. But Chelsea are often more successful than their rivals at picking up points in this type of game. There may be the odd moment of class, otherwise it’s likely to be systematic, efficient and unadventurous stuff from Avram Grant’s side.

Birmingham City 0-1 Chelsea

Prem Preview: Fulham - Arsenal What: Barclays Premier League Who: Fulham (19th, 15pts) v. Arsenal (2nd, 51pts) When: Saturday, 19th January, 15:00

Second from bottom host second from top in this all-London encounter.

Fulham – A Team In A Mess

Results at the bottom didn’t go Fulham’s way last weekend: their loss at West Ham combined with Sunderland's second league win in three leave the Cottagers five points adrift in the relegation zone, marooned in 19th between doomed Derby County and the scrappers above.

Fulham have notched just two Premier League victories all season (and none since November 3rd) and even the appointment of Roy Hodgson has failed to yield anything more spectacular than a 2-2 draw at home to League One strugglers Bristol Rovers in the FA Cup.

But the new boss can hardly be blamed: this has been a miserable twelve months for fans of the west London club.

Aside from the questionable transfer decisions of Hodgson’s predecessor Lawrie Sanchez, who tried to recreate his old Northern Ireland team for the Premiership and fell woefully short, the Cottagers main problem has been their defence.

As the old adage goes, if you don’t concede you can’t lose. Only Fulham haven’t managed a clean sheet since October’s drab 0-0 at home to Derby. What is more, the tendency under Sanchez to turn leads into losses has continued under Hodgson – against both West Ham and Chelsea the Cottagers went one up only to round out 2-1 losers. In the previous match against Birmingham they again squandered the advantage but salvaged a draw.

Hodgson is attempting to bring fresh talent into his squad, but January is a notoriously difficult time in which to do so. Fulham will hardly be relishing the arrival of Arsenal, then, even if they did defeat the Gunners in the corresponding fixture last season.


Will Arsenal Bounce Back Or Fade Away?

Arsenal were almost given an almighty shock by Fulham at the Emirates on the opening day of the season, conceding a first-minute goal and waiting until the final seconds to snatch victory through Alexander Hleb's strike.


But however unconvincing they were then, Arsène Wenger’s side have since rallied in the Premiership, rivalling Manchester United in a manner which few neutrals had expected. The Gunners have only lost once so far this season (2-1 at Middlesbrough), they finally broke their winless streak against Chelsea and picked up amongst others an impressive 4-1 victory at Everton.


Indeed, the north Londoners would still have topped the table were it not for the disappointing draw at home to Birmingham City last weekend. Dominant at first, Wenger’s side failed to capitalise on their chances beyond Emmanuel Adebayor’s 21st-minute penalty. Birmingham snatched their equalising opportunity and – as they had already done at Anfield earlier in the season – packed the midfield well and clung on for a hard-earned draw.


Most certainly two points dropped for Arsenal, but off the back of that setback they will either stutter or roar again. Wenger firmly believes in the latter: “There is a real hunger and we are all on the same wavelength. We have the same love for the game, and that drives you on. You feel there is a potential in the side and that you want to win, but they want to win as well. We have taken a step forward this season.”


FORM GUIDE

Fulham

Match Result Date Championship
West Ham - Fulham 2 - 1 12/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Fulham - Bristol Rovers 2 - 2 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Fulham - Chelsea 1 - 2 01/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Birmingham - Fulham 1 - 1 29/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Tottenham - Fulham 5 - 1 26/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Fulham - Wigan Athletic 1 - 1 22/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE



Arsenal

Match Result Date Championship
Arsenal - Birmingham 1 - 1 12/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Arsenal - Tottenham 1 - 1 09/01/2008 CARLING CUP
Burnley - Arsenal 0 - 2 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Arsenal - West Ham 2 - 0 01/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Everton - Arsenal 1 - 4 29/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Portsmouth - Arsenal 0 - 0 26/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE



TEAM NEWS

Fulham

New signing Brede Hangeland has not received clearance in time for this match, while full-back Paul Konchesky is suspended. Jimmy Bullard is fit following a lengthy injury absence and may be handed a midfield start in place of Volz

Likely XI (4-4-2): Niemi – Baird, Stefanovic, Hughes, Bocanegra – Bullard, Murphy, Davis, Davies – Dempsey, Healy


Arsenal

Tomas Rosicky appears to have recovered from a virus and should start in place of Walcott, but Johan Djourou (knee) and Robin Van Persie (thigh) are definitely out. Three players are on African Nations duty: Ivorian pair Touré and Eboué and Cameroon’s Song. Lassana Diarra has left the club.

Likely XI (4-4-2): Almunia – Sagna, Senderos, Gallas, Clichy – Rosicky, Fabregas, Flamini, Hleb – Eduardo, Adebayor


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Fulham – Jimmy Bullard

Bullard worked his way up from non-league football to become one of Wigan Athletic’s key players in their first Premiership season. But after signing for Fulham for £2.75m at the end of the 2005/06 season the midfielder has hardly played –cruciate knee ligament damage has restricted him to just five games for the Cottagers, but if he can rediscover his form he could be vital in helping ensure Fulham avoid the drop

Arsenal – Emmanuel Adebayor (pictured)

Given Adebayor’s recent form Arsène Wenger will be thrilled that Togo failed to qualify for the African Cup of Nations and that the striker could remain with the club. Adebayor netted four times for the Gunners in December and has two goals already in January, and his pace, skill and powerful shot will all cause problems for Fulham’s shaky defence.


PREDICTION

Fulham haven’t done badly against Arsenal in recent times but I fear they will pay the price for Birmingham’s stubborn display against the Gunners last week. If the Cottagers take the lead, don’t expect it to last and if Arsenal click into gear this could become quite a hammering.

Fulham 1-4 Arsenal

Banks Sees Foster As England's Next Number One Manchester United's injured reserve keeper Ben Foster has gotten a sterling vote of confidence from on

A cruciate knee ligament has prevented the 24-year-old from making an impact at Old Trafford this season, since returning from a successful loan spell at Watford, but Banks has already seen more than enough to be convinced that Foster will soon be a regular at Wembley.

"We are going through a bad time with keepers," acknowledged the World Cup winner, "but the lad I like most — and he's not playing at the moment — is Ben Foster.

"When he was on loan at Watford last season he looked very good.

"I hope they can get him fit as soon as possible because I think he's England's next No1."
Manchester United supremo Sir Alex Ferguson recently conceded that Foster’s recovery from a cruciate ligament injury is taking longer than has been originally hoped.

The promising young keeper damaged his knee last spring and despite undergoing corrective surgery in June, he is still a ways away from offering giving Edwin Van Der Sar a run for his money.


The player himself has admitted that the road to recovery has been far from easy.



“I've been injured since May and when you can't do what you're paid to do it's massively frustrating” he recently told the club's official website.

Capello Unsentimental Over Beckham Fabio Capello has warned David Beckham that he will not allow sentiment to dictate whether he decides to hand the

Beckham, who played his 99th game for his country in the 3-2 defeat to Croatia in November, has repeatedly insisted that he wishes to reach the century-mark in the friendly at Wembley.

Capello is due to announce his squad in just over a fortnight and many England fans will want Beckham to be named captain as regular skipper John Terry looks doubtful for the game through injury.

However, while the Italian feels his former Real Madrid player still has a lot to offer, he nonetheless said he will not make selections based on sentiment.

"All managers have sentiment - but they also need to take decisions," said Capello.

"Beckham is important for England and can still give a lot, but as everybody knows, all the players are equally important to me and start from the same position, including David Beckham."

Liverpool, Manchester United and City On The Hunt For Huntelaar A host of Premiership and Serie A clubs had scouts in the stands to analyse gifted st

The likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Rafael Benitez and Sven-Goran Eriksson, along with Juventus’ Claudio Ranieri are all reported to be keen on boosting their attacking line-up with the tall, lanky forward.

Huntelaar did don’t disappoint the eager observers as he netted a brace in Ajax's convincing 6-1 romp over AZ Alkmaar.

Huntelaar, 24, is an established Holland international, has been capped nine times by his country and has an impressive 55 goals from just 66 appearances for the Amsterdam giants following his switch from Heerenveen.

Although Liverpool and Manchester United would probably be Huntelaar's prefereed choice of destination, it is more likely that Manchester City will snare the player.


Benitez has already had the purse strings at Merseyside tightened, as has Ranieri at Juventus. Meanwhile, Ferguson has gone on record to state that he isn't interested in bringing anyone in this month.


However, if his rivals are ready to pounce it may force Ferguson into action as he only has three main strikers available to him at Old Trafford and in Louis Saha he has a forward constantly un-fit and seemingly un-motivated.


Meanwhile, Eriksson has the desire, money and pulling-power to bring in someone of Huntelaar's class, but Eastlands may prove to lowly for the Dutchman when it comes to the crunch.


A move for the instinctive scorer, likened by many to Ruud van Nistelrooy, is likely to cost around £15-18m.

 

England World Cup Qualifying Fixtures Announced Andorra shall be Fabio Capello’s first competitive test as England manager after the two nations penc

The small European nation should allow for an uncomplicated entrance into international management for Capello, but four days later and a clash against England’s nemesis Croatia shall undoubtedly prove trickier for the Italian tactician.

Croatia, of course, defeated England in their final Euro 2008 qualifier to dash their hopes of making it to Austria and Switzerland and signal the end of Steve McClaren's reign.

Thus, the game shall not only be seen by England fans and public as a chance for revenge but also as the first serious test for Capello.

Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Belarus make up the rest of the squad and England shall face them on these dates:

Kazakhstan (h) Saturday, 11 October 2008

Belarus (a) Wednesday, 15 October, 2008

Ukraine (h) Wednesday, 1 April, 2009

Kazakhstan (a) Saturday, 6 June, 2009

Andorra (h) Wednesday, 10 June, 2009

Croatia (h) Wednesday, 9 September, 2009

Ukraine (a) Saturday, 10 October, 2009

Belarus (h) Wednesday, 14 October, 2009

England will have to finish top of their group to guarantee a place in the World Cup in South Africa.

Accompanying Capello to the meeting in Zagreb was FA director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking who expressed his happiness at the scheduling.

"We are reasonably pleased with how it worked out. He wanted Croatia twice in September - he was really relaxed about whether we were home or away.

"It has worked out quite nicely that we have a free Saturday before the home game. He also wanted to start with Andorra.

"The two summer games weren't quite as bad as normal. It is unfortunate we are not involved in the tournament coming up, so players will have a long rest this summer. He just felt it was an opportunity to get them away for a period of time.

"We have to make sure we get an evening kick-off for the Kazakhstan game but if you are going to have to play two matches in June, they are the ones you would have chosen."

FA Cup Preview: Liverpool - Luton What: FA Cup, Third Round replay Who: Liverpool (Prem, 4th) v. Luton Town (League One, 22nd) When: Tuesday, 15th

League One strugglers Luton Town travel to Anfield for their lucrative FA Cup third round replay against Liverpool

Liverpool – Same Old Story

You could virtually copy and paste the previews of Liverpool’s last two matches, for nothing has changed.

Off the field politics continues to play a prominent yet unwanted role.

On the field the Reds look lethargic, drawing games against lesser sides and relying as always on the exceptional Fernando Torres to dig them out of holes.

Two more points were dropped against Middlesbrough on Saturday – the first half was particularly shambolic, something Liverpool fans have almost resigned themselves to as their side’s stuttering start to 2008 (three 1-1 draws) continues.

The gap to leaders Manchester United is now 12pts, but the bitter truth is that Liverpool’s rivals are no longer United, Arsenal and Chelsea, but actually Everton, Manchester City and Aston Villa. As far as the Premier League goes, the aim must now realistically be fourth spot, a step backwards from previous seasons.

Nobody knows what will transpire at Anfield in the summer (you have to question the sense in Hicks making public his approach to Jürgen Klinsmann, a move that has strongly undermined Benítez) but Liverpool need trophies to appease their owners and, most crucially, the fans.

Thus this FA Cup replay against Luton Town just got a whole lot more important. Supporters expect the Reds to win Tuesday night’s game at Anfield, but it is the manner of the win that is significant. Hitting the League One strugglers for four or five will yield greater satisfaction and boost squad morale far more than a drab 1-0.

This may be a game against inferior opposition, but it remains an opportunity for those not named Torres or Gerrard to step up to the plate.


Luton Fight For Their Lives

Convention says a win is better than a draw, but for Luton Town, a club on the brink of insolvency, nothing could have been finer than the 1-1 FA Cup draw with giants Liverpool nine days ago. John Arne Riise’s own goal gave the Hatters that all important equaliser, earning them a lucrative rematch at Anfield and a windfall of up to £500,000.

It all helps, but until a buyer is found this continues to be a club in dire straits. The latest setback occurred as boss Kevin Blackwell tendered his resignation. Unlike a well known brand of quick drying wood stain, Blackwell stated that Luton Town “did not do what it said on the tin.”

Disillusioned with the club's predicament, Blackwell released a statement last Friday: "We have ended up managing a squad of players who do not know if they are being paid or have a future with the football club,” he said. “It is now our belief that no possible future scenario for this club can match in any way shape or form what we came here to do.

"Ironically we no longer have contracts that would require us to give notice but we are acutely aware that just to walk away would simply add to the short-term problems. We will therefore continue work under our basic terms and conditions for approximately one month, leaving the club after home game against Bournemouth on February 9th."

The final straw proved to be a broken promise that nobody would be sold before the Liverpool rematch. As it is, star players David Edwards (Wolves) and Chris Coyne (Colchester) have been shown the exit door, with three others out on loan and further bids for Brill, Calvin and Talbott – all of whom started against Liverpool last weekend – being considered.


FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

Match Result Date Championship
Middlesbrough - Liverpool 1 - 1 12/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Luton - Liverpool 1 - 1 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Liverpool - Wigan Athletic 1 - 1 02/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Manchester City - Liverpool 0 - 0 30/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Derby - Liverpool 1 - 2 26/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Portsmouth 4 - 1 22/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE



Luton

Match Result Date Championship
Luton - Swansea 1 - 3 12/01/2008 LEAGUE ONE
Luton - Liverpool 1 - 1 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Luton - Yeovil 1 - 0 01/01/2008 LEAGUE ONE
Port Vale - Luton 1 - 2 29/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
Bristol Rovers - Luton 1 - 1 26/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
Luton - Tranmere 1 - 0 22/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE



TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

It’s fantasy Rafa time once again as we try to guess Benítez’ team selection. Inevitably enough, rotation should be the order of the day in a game that should not need Gerrard or Torres to be won. Jamie Carragher may receive a well-earned rest at the back as new boy Martin Skrtel gains his first taste of English football. Daniel Agger might also make his first start following his foot injury. Ryan Babel could return to the side after impressing as a substitute against Middlesbrough, while Peter Crouch and Dirk Kuyt look likely to start up front.

Likely XI (4-4-2): Itandje – Arbeloa, Agger, Skrtel, Aurélio – Pennant, Lucas, Alonso, Babel – Crouch, Kuyt

Luton

Team news to follow…


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool – Peter Crouch (pictured)

Crouch appears to have become fourth choice striker at Anfield now as he jostles with Voronin and Kuyt for the right to partner Torres in the big games. Looking at the stats gives you an inclination as to why: midway through January, Crouch has yet to score a goal in the Premier League.

The big man was left out again at Middlesbrough, but the last of this season’s five goals was against Luton in the original third round tie. This may predominantly be a game for the Reds’ second-string but with Kuyt and Voronin also misfiring the England international must take his chances to convince Benítez of his worth.

Luton – awaiting team news


PREDICTION

Luton will aim not to disgrace themselves on a night that for many of their players will be the highpoint of their careers. But personnel-wise these are dark times for the Hatters and they could be in for a thrashing as Liverpool seek to rediscover goalscoring form.