England Save The First Test.

If there’s one thing that England Cricket supporters have come to learn from following their team is that win, lose or draw they’re in for a bumpy ride- and on the final day of the first test at Centurion against South Africa the nations cricketers didn’t upset the form-book.

England eventually fought off a late South Africa resurgence to claim a draw in Pretoria, after seeing six middle order wickets fall for just 46 runs in the final session of the test.

The collapse was sparked by a crazy run-out involving Kevin Pietersen, who was cruising towards his 17^th test century before going for a single that partner Jonathan Trott stood motionless for, resulting in the run-out of the South African born player.

Pietersen and Trott’s 146-run partnership had looked as if it would all but seal England a draw in this opening test, with the duo combining solidity and carefully selective stroke play in their match saving innings.

The dismissal of the two will spark discussion for plenty of reasons, Trott’s because of the marvelous catch that brought the wicket, from AB De Villiers, and Pietersen’s because of the softness of the dismissal.

The hosts had seemingly run out of ideas heading into the final session and Pietersen’s run out gave them the initiative and the belief that they could in-fact go on and win the match.

In predictable fashion, the wicket has become the catalyst for some harsh criticism towards the England batsman with his exuberant batting style resulting in him unnecessarily trying to rotate the strike- with dire consequences.

This comment on the BBC Sport Website reflects the majority of the feeling towards the former England skipper.

"What a shambolic waste from KP. A typically senseless way to give up your wicket when the situation needs the exact opposite. Kevin may be a supreme hitter of a cricket ball, but great batsmen are far more shrewd and tactical than KP seems able."

This is a typical comment from one of the many fickle sporting fans this nation accommodates and is something better left for a rant on Radio 5 Live’s 606, or one of Talksport’s numerous discussion forums.

Pietersen’s contribution to England’s cricketing success, however limited it may have been during the last four years, can mainly be attributed to his quality with the bat and his unique match winning ability.

The odd mistake from him should not be scrutinized to the extent that he’s been made the scapegoat for England’s batting collapse.

I did mention his dismissal opened the floodgates for England’s collapse but it didn’t mean England’s batsman were suddenly obligated to give their wickets away, five wickets fell after his remember.

The circumstances surrounding the collapse did highlight how much work England have to do if they are to turn there fortunes around after a match in which they never had control of their own destiny.

From the instant Andrew Strauss sent South Africa into bat on the first morning of the test, England shattered any chance of drawing first blood in this test, and they failed from then on to wrestle the onue away from Graeme Smith’s side throughout the five rain-free days in Pretoria.

The fact that we saw five full days of cricket and the team batting fourth was still over 100 runs from parity proves how flat and lifeless the Centurion pitch was.

We’re expecting a bit more grass on the pitch for the Boxing Day test at Durban, and both teams’ selection policy is sure to different from this opening test for contrasting reasons.

The hosts have the luxury of being able to welcome back Dale Steyn into their bowling attack, and with Jacques Kallis also set to be able to bowl at 100% Smith can be confident ahead of the second test.

England on the other hand have to decide the worth of playing a sixth batsman, and whether they are willing to put any faith in Matt Prior batting higher up the order.

The hosts showed a depth and quality in their bowling attack that England couldn’t match, so a natural all-rounder, either Luke Wright or Liam Plunkett will have to be brought in to even up the England attack.

Frankly I’d be tempted to go with Ryan Sidebottom as the fifth bowler, given that both Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann make up for there not being an out and out all-rounder.

The selectors are however uneasy with the idea of Broad batting at No. 7, and therefore I expect to see Liam Plunkett given a chance to make his first test appearance since 2007.

Elsewhere in the team I’m worried about the form of Alastair Cook, who after averaging just 24.22 during the Ashes series made pitiful scores of 15 and 12 in this test and it highlights an area of concern in the England team- but one that won’t be delved into in the middle of a test series.

My final point surrounds the thrilling ending we saw to this test, and it was true testament that only test cricket could have seen an ending as exciting as what we saw today.

Even it’s biggest detractors, such as West Indies captain Chris Gayle for example couldn’t have argued that today’s climax to the game wasn’t electrifying, and rarely in other forms of the game could a game swing with such vigor as it did in the final session of the test match.

James Anderson’s tweet sums up the feeling behind test cricket, and Gayle apart, most of the players seem to be huge fans of the notion.

JimmyAnderson9: We are single handedly trying to keep test cricket alive!

Let’s hope for the future of the form of the game that he’s not the only one, otherwise we’ll be seeing decreasingly less of the types of finishes that we saw unfold this weekend.

British Swimming Set for Duel in the Pool

Great Britain’s everlasting memories from last year’s Olympic Games in Beijing, excluding our cyclists, was of our swimming team who while in the Water Cube in Beijing won six medals, which included two gold’s for Rebecca Adlington.

Seven further medals were picked up at the world championships in Rome earlier this year with Liam Tancock and Gemma Spofforth this time the heroes.

For the years climax to the swimming calendar a concept called ‘Duel in the Pool’ something largely only used in America, has been revamped to incorporate more countries to create a Europe vs. America a model based on Golf’s own Ryder Cup.

A team from Great Britain will be joined by their German and Italian counterparts as they take on the might of the USA, which will of course include Michael Phelps.

The USA have consistently held the upper hand at previous world championships, Olympic games and earlier Duel in the Pool competitions, but never have they had to face three countries at once.

A points system has be introduced to score each of the top three finishers in each race, with five points available for first place, three for second and one for third.

The event is to take place in Manchester over this weekend and is sure to further boost the profile and awareness of British swimming in this country and beyond.

The biggest draw of the weekend is sure to be the American Phelps whose seen controversy and loss of form trouble him since his Olympic heroics, and during his first trip to the UK he’ll be looking to make up for those mishaps

Whether the same ability to become a team player will occur like it does for Tiger Woods in Ryder Cups is difficult to say, but either way he’s sure to be a big draw for the crowd and the other competitors.

Phelps will be unable to compete in more than six events over the two days, but expect him to dominate the events he is involved in.

It will be a chance for Britain’s golden girl Adlington to re-assert herself as the world’s No.1 800m swimmer with Jo Jackson set to miss out, and the double Olympic Champions year has been dominated by her decision not to wear the soon to be prohibited swimming suits.

She was left short at the World Championship failing to pick up a gold medal at the event as Jackson amongst others showed the vast difference between the two suits.

It’s the only sour note on what should be wonderful few days for British swimming, and at the end of the day it’s sure to be the difference between a winning European team, and a loosing one.

The medal table at the Olympic Games and World Championships suggest USA should just sneak the win overall, with the combined medals earned from those events by Italy, Germany and Britain, just short of the Americans.

But in truth the British Swimming Association won’t mind too much if the team come up short, because it’s sure to be days full of showing off the depth of Britain’s swimming talent, and along with the brilliant facilities they have to host the event it can only boost the sports importance.

Solid Kallis Halts England’s Charge

An unbeaten 112 from Jacques Kallis took South Africa to 264 for 4 at the close of play on day one of the first text against England at Centurion.

Early wickets had looked to justify Andrew Strauss’ decision to insert the hosts after winning the toss, with Stuart Broad, Graeme Swann and Graeme Swann all striking early on to leave South Africa 93 for 3.

But Kallis showed patience that many of the teammates had lacked as he hit his 32^nd test century in the typical unyielding style we’ve come to expect from the all-rounder.

Even with a slight injury- one that will deny him the chance to bowl in the match- he strolled to his century without serious alarm.

England will be encouraged by a terrific early start for their bowlers, the two wickets for spinner Swann who also saw for AB De Villiers, but will worry about little niggles that seems to have eroded some of the confidence from the England seam bowlers.

It did seem like a strange decision however to field just three seam bowlers in the team and then insert Graeme Smith’s side to bat, surely a selection geared towards taking on what was a slow pitch with the bat, rather than the ball.

JP Duminy should be praised for his rearguard performance, as he was able to rotate the strike and give Kallis the chance to put England to the sword.

The 34-year old's unnerving ability to keep his nerve at the crease means he’ll be odds on to make his first double hundred in test match cricket.

Yet again the referral system, a system that isn’t favored by the players, was involved in some controversy as England had two successive referrals rejected.

The second of which involved De Villiers, who Swann claimed to have had caught behind, and after the umpire didn’t raise his finger, he referred the decision.

The decision remained however because the television company covering the game don’t have the technology available to confer on caught behind decisions.

Why on earth would you implement the referral system, and then not have the technology to back it up when the players want to use it? You either have it or you don’t.

Yes Swann and keeper Matt Prior will be criticized for asking for the referral despite possessing this information about the abilities of the TV company, but surely this should have been sorted out before the test series begun.

The ICC really has to drop the referral system sooner or later, or put their money where there mouth is and fund this technology, something they’ve failed to do up till now, and that would have prevented a situation like we saw today.

It was the only blip of the day however, one that was dominated by one of the current era’s greatest players. Onlookers will be craving much of the same for the days to come.

Notts County Proving Financial Power Isn’t Always the Best Medicine

It may have only been five months, but Notts County’s ‘five year’ plan, which included promotion to at least The Championship within that time frame, looks like little more than a pipe dream after yet another big name departed the club on Tuesday.

Manager Hans Backe, who had been in charge for just seven weeks, has resigned from his post-just days after the club underwent yet another ownership change.

Munto Finance put the club up for sale last week, with Peter Trembling, a representative of that company, purchasing the club for a nominal fee.

Backe seems to have been unsettled by the constant speculation behind the owner’s intentions and identity and this latest episode, that was cleared up over the weekend seems to have been the last straw for the Swede.

He also has a case for being provided with little or no funds, unlike his predecessor Ian McParland and it was unclear whether he would have any money to spend during the upcoming January transfer window.

County’s second managerial departure of the season will only add to the dressing room unrest and unsettle the fans, who for the most part have been subjected to some hugely entertaining and successful football at Meadow Lane.

This time last season Notts County had just been beaten 2-0 by Chester City, now bottom of the Blue Square Premier and facing a second successive relegation, and were languishing in 16^th after four wins all season.

This season the club find themselves 6^th in League Two just five points off the third automatic promotion place after a near perfect home record this season.

Their single home defeat came last weekend at the hands of Accrington Stanley and proved that the off-the field goings on has maybe affected the players confidence.

Of course the astronomical wages and fees being paid out at the beginning of the season may well have to be toned down, now Munto Finance have sold the club, and that might mean a complete re-structure of the wage system meaning many players will have to either take a pay cut, or leave altogether.

But it’s this sort of conjecture that Magpies fans don’t want and it’s sure to continue until Trembling and director of football Sven Goran Eriksson reveal their intentions.

Whether they have the financial power necessary to keep County challenging in the higher echelons of League Two is again difficult to say but its unlikely they’ll have the same sort of financial power as the previous owners did.

Eriksson’s relation with the club means that high-profile international names are sure to be linked with the vacant managers job, with Roberto Mancini almost certain to be a strong front-runner as he was after McParland’s departure.

I was never a supporter of McParland’s sacking to begin with, yes he wasn’t highly thought of in League Two, and was lucky to retain his job after the clubs takeover, but given that he was allowed a chance to start the clubs meteoric rise and that he faired pretty well, why was he rid of when the club were flourishing?

Since his sacking the club have gone from 5^th, four points off the top, to 6^th, 10 points off the top; where’s the progress there?

What’s more the club have been completely embarrassed by the scenario surrounding Sol Campbell and now this ownership squabble, wasn’t it so much simpler before the takeover?

It brings up the question; does a financial injection create more problems than it’s worth?

QPR for example have had six different managers in the two years following on from the massive money boost at the club, and are as a result no closer to their ultimate dream; promotion to the Premiership.

Portsmouth have had three different owners during their foray into the Premiership, and are becoming unstuck on and off the pitch as a result with administration reportedly looming over the south coast club.

And finally two of English footballs most illustrious clubs, Manchester United and Liverpool have debts topping £600 million between them after respective American takeovers and are finding success on the field an absolute necessity if the clubs are to survive in the short term.

It will surely take the liquidation of one, if not two of the countries best loved clubs for fans and chairman to realise success can’t be pushed- the best things come to those who wait, remember?

Not that its likely, but maybe Trembling and Eriksson will take these wise words into account when deciding what to do next at Notts County, the football leagues oldest ever club don’t deserve such an uncertain future.

BBC Sports Personality of the Year or X-Factor? You Decide!

In a decision that would send Victor Meldrew into an epic frenzy, television’s big boys, the BBC and ITV, have decided to put their personal ego’s ahead of their viewers pleasure by showing their ‘crown jewel’ events on the same evening as each other.

That’s right both The X-Factor, a show that’s gripped the nation for the past four months will compete with BBC Sports Personality of the Year this evening for the first time ever.

It already seems like this blunder, for which the blame can be equally shared it must be said, will leave some people switching channels constantly as they send some of their family into epileptic fits, while others will be wondering why they bothered watching some tight-trousered Geordie prance around the stage- the things Alan Shearer will do for TV exposure eh?

You can make an argument for both shows being the source of the viewer’s frustration this particular year, with X-Factor changing the format of the show entirely for this year, having the preliminary singing on the Saturday and the results show on the Sunday evening, something that has if anything raised viewing figures.

The BBC has consistently hosted their show two weekends before Christmas, and given that The X-Factor traditionally hosts the show plus the results on the Saturday previous so that the winner can be in contention for Christmas number one, there has never been a clash.

However the timing of the BBC’s announcement that the event would be staged in Sheffield on December 13th came a full four months before ITV announced a split results show would be implemented- possibly suggesting the ITV want to show the Beeb a lesson.

The less cynical side of me believes that it’s all just a coincidence, but this is clearly just another episode of these two corporations trying to get one over the other, and given the numbers we’ve already seen glued to the X-Factor the BBC should expect a trouncing in the ratings.

The current format that we now know as The X-Factor has been running since 2004 and after seeing three boys flop, and two girls flourish as winners the victor of this years show promises to go very much the same way; history suggests as much if not the metronomic personality of the duo.

Like the slave to Saturday night television that I am, I’ve been drawn to the show like Simon Cowell’s drawn to an overpriced suit and it has hugely entertained me for the most part if I’m honest.

The Sports Personality of the Year however is a pure example of a show growing in stature and importance as its years has gone on, something I’m not sure X-factor can profess to- if anything it’s popularity has remained ever since it’s induction in the mid-noughties- again something the BBC have to concede.

Something the show can boast is a legacy and a prestige dating back over 50 years, with nine different venues used, each one bigger than the last.

Last years capacity of nearly 11,000 at the Echo Arena in Liverpool was almost as many as who voted in the events first staging of the show, an show that lasted no long than three quarters of a hour and was won by Christopher Chataway from Roger Banister, a common theme throughout 1954.

The X-Factor final will go out live from the Fountain Studio in Wembley, a simple Television centre, albeit the biggest in the country, and in truth it’s strange given the magnitude of the show that the franchise merchant that is Cowell hasn’t upgraded the venue furthur as the years have progress, as there’s no doubt it’d be filled twice over.

As for the winners of the respective shows, well one is far easier to call than the other.

Like any Brit I love an underdog, but I want to see the SPOTY winner to be someone whose actually won something notable, so Andy Murray and Mark Cavendish can kiss goodbye to there chances of claiming my vote.

My favorites for the award come in the way of Ryan Giggs one the finest footballers I’ve ever seen strike a ball and the most decorated footballer in England league history.

Tom Daley, whose triumph at such a young age has to be implored as he shocked the world as he won world diving gold.

And Jessica Ennis whose career went from possible ruin to becoming world heptathlon champion in just over a year and her individual story will earn her plenty of recognition.

The sporting public love to have a particular empathy, relation and particular background knowledge around their winner, take Joe Calzaghe’s relationship with his dad Enzo, or the history surrounding Zara Phillips, daughter of 1971 winner Princess Ann- given these stories any of the aforementioned three can be strongly considered.

As for ITV’s effort my tip comes courtesy of the good old fashioned history book; never has anyone won the X-Factor whose appeared in the bottom two in any of the previous weeks, therefore Joe McElderry is a sure-fire winner in my eyes.

And the winner of my viewing figure, well that’s one of the easier decisions I’ll have to make. No rule breaking on my part Louis, Lineker’s ears just do it for me.

BBC Sports Personality of the Year

Although we still have another month of jam packed sporting action to come its already that time of the year where one of the most prestigious award ceremonies begins to come to the forefront of our minds.

It is of course the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award and yet again our country has been blessed with dozens of high-class performances spanning a high number of sports.

It’s an event that has grown in stature over recent years, and is largely viewed as the most comprehensive sporting awards event in this country at least.

The evening is sure to be crammed with graphic defying video montages, Gary Lineker’s overrated jokes and probably one of Britain’s heroes re-enacting a part of their sporting routine live in the studio al la Beth Tweddle- although I’m not sure Tom Daley plunging into the Sheaf will be a particularly good idea.

The 10 nominees are announced on Monday evening by Adrian Chiles, and in my typically opinionate style I’ve had my say on who I would like to see on the shortlist.

Jenson Button: Odds: (8/13)

Britain’s second Formula World Champion in as many years, but maybe not the man we all expected after last season’s thrilling climax. Six wins in his first seven races for his new team Brawn GP all but sealed the title, but his inspirational drive in Brazil will live long in the memory and proved that despite a difficult end to the season he deserved his world title. Overwhelming Favorite.

Jessica Ennis: Odds (9/2)

If Button’s career was on a knife edge after Honda sold their team before the most recent F1 season, then Jessica Ennis’ can boast that she wasn’t even certain of a career after a stress fracture to her ankle in 2008 left her future in Athletics in tatters. After constant reservations over her ability to return she regained full fitness and won four of her seven-heptathlon events to become world champion in Berlin in July. Her glorious personality will assure her presence in the top three in Sheffield.

David Haye: Odds (6/1)

Despite his performance not being the most sparkling against Nicolai Valuev, the fact he’s Britain’s third ever world heavyweight champion means he’s a shoe-in for this top ten. Valuev in truth was a poor fighter and the making of Haye will be his clash with either of the Klitschko brothers next year. Next year might his year for both his career, and this award.

Andrew Strauss: Odds: (16/1)

He masterminded England’s Ashes triumph over Australia as captain but in truth you couldn’t have argued with his nomination even if he had not been the captain, his effort with the bat would have alone justified his nomination. Michael Vaughan couldn’t quiet combine the two during England’s last win in 2005, and even then the country had been consumed by ‘Flintoff fever’. No one stands in the way of Strauss this year and it would be criminal if he’s not a serious contender.

Beth Tweddle: Odds (66/1)

If her performance in Beijing showed us anything it was that there was more to come from Gymnast Beth Tweddle. And blimey hasn’t she produced. Six major events she competed in this year, five of them were won by this talented athlete. No Britain can profess to have such an impress win-rate in their sport this year and it would be a crime for her to be discounted. Might struggle to compete with the mainstream sports however.

Tom Daley: Odds: (100/1)

World champion at 14 year-old, now it doesn’t get much better than that does it? He went into this year’s world diving championships as nothing more than an outsider, just like he had done in Beijing the previous year. Under pressure, he produced a stunning final dive to leapfrog his opponents and snatch the Gold medal when he only expected to play a bit part in the competition. Did someone say 2012?

Phillips Idowu: Odds: (100/1)

This man won everything going in 2008 and then stumbled at the final hurdle, as he finished just second at the Beijing Olympics. This year after going through a similar vein of form the triple jumper wasn’t going to be denied, and at the World Championships in Berlin he finally realized his potential with a major Gold medal that he’s forever craved. He may not be Jonathan Edwards’ favorite but his hair amongst other things has captured the nations heart. The Athlete of the Year is a great price at 100/1.

Lee Westwood: Odds (609/1)

Westwood’s radical improvement saw him finish in the top 3 in two of the four majors this year. He then finished a terrific year by being crowned Europe’s top player after a stunning win at the tour ending Dubai World Championships. Yes he’s still after that elusive major title, but given how close he’s come already you can’t help but think it’s just round the corner. An outside bet to be even nominated.

Jo Jackson: Odds: (N/A)

It may only have been the British Championships, but to beat a two time Olympic champion and break the world record all in a days work deserves proper recognition, and for Jo Jackson that’s just what she’s received. Completely overwhelmed by Rebecca Adlington in Beijing she came back with a memorable performance on home soil. Two silvers and a bronze at the World Championships later in the year, including finishing ahead of Adlington again, meant she became the most successful British swimmer to leave the event.

Claire Taylor: Odds (N/A)

Another whose achievements this year have gone unnoticed by the bookmakers and if I’m honest look like the BBC will overlook them as well. Dare I say had a male in her sport mirrored her achievements then the decision would have been unanimous. The cricketer has been part of an England side that has won the T20 and 50-over world cup and retained the Ashes. She is currently the world’s number one female batsman and the only women to be named Wisden Cricketer of the Year. And yet it’s almost certain that she’ll be ignored entirely.

Can the ATP Tour Finals Be Considered the 'Fifth' Major?

There’s no doubt that after 39 years of the competitions history, the newly named ATP Tour Finals is a firm and necessary fixture in the Tennis calendar.

The tournament collates the world’s top eight players in a uniquely formatted event, with the aim being to crown the year’s number one player on the tour.

It comes at the climax of a grueling season for the world’s best-hardly an ideal time for the players-but to be honest it’s the only appropriate occasion to decide who’s been the finest player of the year.

The tour as a whole has come in for plenty of criticism from ex-professionals and current players due to its hectic scheduling, but given that players can pick and choose which tournaments they do and don’t play in do they really have much of an argument?

Surely it’s the ATP’s points and ranking policy that needs to be looked into further, given that they take the points from a players last twelve finishes in the past year, and that then forces players into playing a high number of tournaments to retain there ranking position.

If the ATP puts less onus on the points of tournaments then will it decrease the credibility and the need to play these events that aren’t worth much towards your ranking?

The enormity of this weeks tournament puts added pressure on players to play more tournaments to reach it, meaning injuries and niggles have to be ignored for the most part, hence the queries behind the player’s exhaustion.

The way the Williams sisters deal with the tour is a case in point; the younger Serena restricts her involvement in the WTA tour due to her age and stage and plays fewer tournaments per year that her competitors.

It’s a damming reflection on the women’s game that despite this she can still achieve a number one ranking, so in truth the depth of the women’s division means her treatment of the tour works well within the strict points system.

This is a sole example of a player being able to shape their season as they want, and also being able to preserve a high ranking; it’s unlikely anyone else, especially on the men’s game could afford such a luxury.

The depth and quality of the men’s game means qualification for this weeks event is never assured for most players until the final tour event in Paris, which is used as a pathway for most players to qualify for the year ending event.

The schedule and demands on the players to try and qualify for this tournament had led to a number of withdrawals due to injury in recent years, with the most recent being American Andy Roddick, who even after one of his more successful years on tour has to sit on the sidelines ruing is bad luck.

It’s a great shame that Roddick can’t show off his immense improvement on the court as he would have been a real threat to any one of the seven other qualifiers, but it probably highlights the huge effort the 27-year old made just to get this far.

The strains players go through throughout the season shows they do care about this season ending event and definitely their ranking, but does it have the prestige to be compared to any of the four majors?

Well the points on offer is the largest outside of the four majors, (1,500) the quality of the players can’t be questioned and the prize money and organization of the event is consistently second to none.

The event has been staged in some of the world’s biggest cities such as New York, Tokyo, Sydney, Shanghai and for the next five years London’s O2 Arena, a ploy to spread the importance of the event- a shrewd move by the ATP.

The four major’s have the history and integrity that is widely acknowledged, and the constant changing of this events venue means its significance can be preached throughout the Tennis world and therefore it’s profile can be raised.

One thing that is certain is that the professionals see the significance.

Nine time finalist Ivan Lendl will be the first to profess the tournament’s substance after his five victories in the 80’s, and along with him some of the greatest players to ever hold a racket have at one time held aloft this trophy.

Roger Federer, Bjorn Borg, Pete Sampras and John McEnroe can all boast multiple wins in this competition and if that’s not a definition of its importance then nothing is.

And isn’t that the whole point at the end of the day?

If the top players take the tournament seriously then their drive and enthusiasm will shine though, and the importance of the tournament will just grow and grow.

Whether this tour ending event can be considered a fifth major or not isn’t clear, but given some of the performances we’ve already seen in Greenwich this week, the players certainly understand the magnitude of the event.

England Still Have Much To Learn

Since England’s qualification for the 2010 World Cup finals next summer Fabio Capello would have been looking to learn as much as he can about his players in the upcoming friendlies before he finalises his playing party for the tournament in South Africa.

However the Italian manager would have discovered very little about his depleted England team, who succumbed to yet another bout hesitation at the back as they were beaten 1-0 by Brazil in Doha.

A beautifully directed header just 90 seconds after half-time from Nilmar sealed the win for Dunga’s side, who saw Luis Fabiano sky a penalty later on after yet more deliberation in the England defence.

Wes Brown, who was certainly at fault for the 56^th minute penalty award which saw Nilmar ghost in behind the defender and be eventually caught by Ben Foster, has done nothing to assure the manager that he can ably step in at full-back ahead of the defensively naïve Glen Johnson.

In the final third things hardly improved as England looked totally devoid of ideas, and frustratingly lacked a final ball when they did carve out half chances, with Shaun Wright-Phillips and James Milner the worst offenders.

Milner in-fact had England’s best chance of the match with a volley that he careered over the bar after Wright-Phillips eventually found an England player from one of his more effective crosses.

The likes of Aaron Lennon and Theo Walcott will be licking their lips after seeing a poor performance from both of England’s wing-wizards and a repeat showing from either of these players in an England shirt will all but end their chances of making the plane to South Africa.

You do have to however feel sorry for the partners of Wayne Rooney- Darren Bent and Jermaine Defoe- who saw a lack of service affect their ability to impress in the humidity of Qatar.

The Sunderland man, whose playing catch-up in trying to make the squad for next summer, will be more hurt by his performance than Defoe, who knows his two-goal salvo in Holland will linger in the mind of Capello when he chooses the final 23.

Elsewhere it’s difficult to find many more positives in England’s performance, Wayne Rooney’s guile and effort was very much in vein, Gareth Barry’s passing was unusually inept and Jermaine Jenas must come away from his showing thinking he’ll need yet another injury-stricken squad to find himself in an England team.

It was slightly disjointed from Brazil as well however-none of the free flowing football that we’ve come to expect- but more steel and a higher intensity off the ball, much of England’s failure in the final third was down to the pressure on the ball from both Gilberto Silva and Filipe Melo- an added string to the Brazilian bow.

But Brazil showed the perfect trait of any top quality side though, and that was to capitalise upon their opponent’s shortcomings- something that goes along way in a major tournament.

One plus for England though was that they kept Brazil down to just a one-goal win, with just two players who could boast to being first choice in Capello’s team starting the game, and you’d have to think both team’s performances would have altered had England been able to call upon their star-turns.

It’s a slim but important point to take from this latest friendly- and until March the player’s league form will have to do the talking- but after the heat of Doha that alone may not be enough to seal their place in South Africa.

Sky is the Limit For Haye

If we learnt anything about David Haye on Saturday evening it was that his ability to shoot for the stars is a gift that no other boxer currently on the Heavyweight circuit can match.

Yes he was able to make a 7’2 giant look like an estranged alcoholic at the back end of his fight in Neremberg with Nikolai Valuev, but the way he set his sights on the remainder of the boxing world just minutes after his historic victory shows that his ambition is almost as vibrant as his talent.

The fight had barely finished when Haye laid down his intentions for the rest of the Heavyweight division and the boxing world.

"Here I am, heavyweight champion of the world and I'm loving it. I'm going to clean up the division."

Now most boxers are well known for talking themselves up before and after matches no-matter what the result may be- but Haye’s confidence in his own ability is infectious to say the least.

The Brit has a mandatory defence of his title early next year against John Ruiz, before setting his sights on either of the Klitschko brothers, in particular the older Vitali.

The 38-year old fought Britain’s last World Heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis in 2005, with Lewis winning by technical knockout after a dominant performance by Klitschko-so the Ukrainian certainly has some unfinished business.

Haye’s match-up with Ruiz- a boxer whose has been defeated by Valuev on two occasions- is expected to take place at the O2 Arena, but it’s the venue of the potential unification title fight between Haye and either of the Klitschko brothers that’s of most interest.

Wembley Stadium and the New Den are the current front-runners to host a future fight proving that Haye is now one of the most in-demand boxers in the world right now.

The home of English football can seat up to 90,000 people while the New Den is the home of Haye’s beloved Millwall football club.

It’s surprising that given his personality that a fight in Las Vegas hasn’t been mentioned as yet, as it’s certain that the American public would lap up his eccentric persona.

However it’s important that with all these major venue’s and opponents being mentioned, that Haye doesn’t get to far ahead of himself, he might be world champion now but holding onto his crown will be a bigger ask- he needs to stay focused.

Given that, maybe taking his progress one fight at a time would be more favourable, after all you don’t become a great Boxer overnight, Haye might have to bide his time.

Safin Takes His Bow In Paris

Without uttering an often used ‘legend defining’ cliché it’s difficult to sum up the immense impact that Marat Safin has made in world tennis since his debut on the tour in 1997.

He burst on the scene during his first ever tournament in Holland, reaching the semi-finals before being eventually ousted by Spainard Salvador Navarro.

The following year however his progress was rapid.

He hit the stage at Rolland Garros, beating Andre Agassi and Gustavo Gurten, players who lay in the top 20 of the world at the time, before loosing out at the fourth round stage.

It was obvious that as his career progressed, that he would begin to excel on the hard court, and that’s where his four Grand Slam finals have taken place.

A win at each of the hard-court major events, including a victory over Pete Sampras in 2000 will assure Safin’s name in Open era history, but the way his career faded away as a result of injury and loss of form will probably linger just as greatly.

His victory over Leyton Hewitt in Australia in 2005 was his last major tour final, with a semi-final on his less favoured grass court at SW19 in 2008 the only glimmer of success the Russian has mustered in his remaining years.

In-fact in 2008, the year of his Wimbledon resurgence, he failed to surpass the third round in any major tournament, but maybe this single success highlights his ability to perform on the big stage rather than the inconsistent nature of his career.

Safin’s success opened the floodgates for an influx in Russian tennis stars with Nicolay Davydenko, his sister Dinara Safina and Maria Sharapova-another whose injury problems have affected her recent progress- all entering the world stage with prolonged success.

Safin was the first ever Russian to win the US Open in 2000 and can attribute part of the recent success and talent in Russian tennis down to his own early victories.

All of which leads us to this week, and Safin’s bow in professional tour tennis.

The Paris Masters is usually a tournament left to players scrapping for places in the season ending Masters Finals-this year to be hosted in London-but with many of the places all but secured it might be a week best left for reflection on Safin’s superb career.

He takes on qualifier Thierry Ascione in the first round in Paris on Monday evening, and if victorious will take on Juan Martin Del Potro, a player who’s in the Safin mold himself.

The Argentine won the US Open last year against world number one Rodger Federer, and Safin produced as big a coup in 2000 when he beat Sampras at the same event, victories that both players will surely see as career defining.

Either way Safin’s career will be over by the end of this week, but will the Russian be remembered for his double major success and his number one ranking, or his battle with injuries and his brittle temperament? I’ll let you decide.

Chelsea Find the Finishing Touch as United’s Big Game Temperament Fades

John Terry’s 75^th minute header at Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening proved that even in the pressure filled cauldron of the Premiership grasping football’s basics can be the biggest weapon of them all.

It was a lesson that Manchester United ultimately failed to understand meaning that League leaders Chelsea could come away with all three points in a tight game at Stamford Bridge.

The visitors dictated play for long periods but failed to turn a dominance of possession into clear-cut chances as Chelsea pounced on United’s lack of creativity and concentration.

The Champions will surely be questioning the judgement of the officials for Chelsea’s winning goal, which saw a free kick given for a foul by Darren Fletcher in which he seemed convinced that he’d won the ball and then from the resulting free-kick which saw Didier Drogba waft at the ball while in an offside position.

In truth both queries don’t diminish the fact that Terry-arguably The Blues’ finest header of a ball- was left unmarked from the free kick and had the simple task of guiding the ball into the far corner of the net.

United’s fans and players were quick to blame the officials for their defeat at Anfield last month, but just like that fateful day on Merseyside they should have a long look at their own performance before crucifying the decisions of the men in the middle.

In addition it’s now becoming a common theme of United’s form on the road that they can’t raise their game sufficiently against their ‘top four’ rivals.

Yes they endured this type form while still claiming a third successive League Title last season but given the current form of both Arsenal and leaders Chelsea, United might need to buck up their ideas.

Carlo Ancelotti alternatively will be delighted that in two home games against their title rivals they’ve claimed maximum points while rarely breaking a sweat.

It’s difficult to see much of a weakness in a Chelsea side that could rely on Terry to produce the goods as their attacking gems were marked out of the game.

Drogba and Nicolas Anelka were particularly frustrated as a makeshift United back-four got the better of Chelsea’s attacking threat.

Their squad size also makes for impressive reading, with the likes of Florent Malouda,Yuri Zhirkov and Jon Obi Mikel not even called upon on Sunday evening.

I’m not sure the temporary suspension of the clubs transfer ban will make a host of difference to their title chances, it will be more down to the size of lead they can take into the African Cup of Nations, where they’ll lose four of their star turns.

Maybe Ancelotti had thought ahead and demanded a fast start ahead of next year’s African competition so that in the close season run-in the club would still be in the running for the title- it’s a move that already looks shrewd.

Their rivals from North London are also setting the League alight with their all action performances, but unlike previous years Arsenal seem to have a final product to their ultra precise passing game, and the spread of goals is something to feared by both United and today’s victors from the Kings Road.

Of course Liverpool should not be discounted, especially at this early stage of the season but it seems like they look devoid of ideas and drive without Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres- the return to fitness of the duo appears to be crucial to their chances.

As for Chelsea they just continue to turn up when it matters, but we’re yet to see how their Italian manager can cope over the course of a whole season, remember you win nothing in November.

Superb Harper Kicks New Era into Top Gear

An inspired performance from Goalkeeper Steve Harper ensured Newcastle United celebrated their new backroom stability by going top of the Coca Cola Championship after prevailing in a 1-0 win over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

The 34-year old seemed intent on impressing his on looking former teammate Shay Given, with a number of first class reaction saves to deny the Blades a point.

His stop from Darius Henderson’s late header particularly caught the eye, and his showing was yet again the cornerstone of another impressive away win for the Magpies.

The win took Newcastle two points clear at the top of the Championship, news that is sure to excite plenty of fans in the North East- but maybe last weeks announcement about the clubs immediate future should make more of an impact at St James’.

Just a week ago it was announced that Chris Hughton would be appointed full-time manager of the Geordie's and more importantly that owner Mike Ashley had taken the club off the market and promised to invest in its future.

Ashley had originally put the club up for sale 14 months ago, but a number of failed takeovers by local and foreign investors has led to Ashley taking a new interest in taking the club forward himself, and it’s this sort of stability that the clubs supporters have been craving.

Confusion over the destiny of the club had been widespread since Ashley’s admission that he could no longer run the club but last weeks announcement means the club can finally move forward off the pitch and concentrate fully on regaining their place in the Premiership.

Newcastle’s performances and results have in-fact been a far cry from the chaos that’s been going on behind the scenes and last night’s triumph was their ninth win in 15 league games.

Given the physiological scar that relegation left on the players, this season’s effort has been truly astonishing especially with a painfully thin squad to work with.

The trio of Marlon Harewood, Danny Simpson and Zurab Khizanishvili have arrived on short-term deals to bolster the squad, but despite the impressive start the squad still needs more work if promotion is to be assured.

Hughton has to be hugely praised for getting on with his job with limited resources, and with the confusion surrounding his and the clubs future his commitment to the cause means he’s deserved his chance.

Fortunately for the manager, finances may well be available in the near future after Ashley announced that he plans to sell the St James’ Park name to gain further revenue.

In keeping with their frustration during Ashley’s tenure at the club, the supporters have reacted angrily to the move with the supporters trust starting a petition in a vain attempt to ensure the stadium’s original name is retained.

It seems that no matter what Ashley does at the club the fans simply won’t back him, and now that Hughton has been appointed as manager full time it should now delay, if not extinguish the possibility of Alan Shearer undertaking his second spell in charge of his hometown club- despite the supporters own wishes.

The former England captain displayed huge tactical naivety as manager last season as he took Newcastle down to the Championship and it’s feasible that had Shearer taken over last week all of the momentum and success created by Hughton would have been lost.

While the North East faithful may never warm up to the ‘cockney mafia’ at St James’ it’s surely results on the pitch that they should be concentrating on- and although we're only in November it’s doubtful that they’ll be complaining just yet.

My England World Cup Squad

As qualifying for next years World Cup in South Africa starts to reach a climax it’s a good time to start looking at England’s possible squad for next summer mammoth tournament.

All the big guns are set to join England in South Africa after Argentina assured their place in the final 32, with Portugal and France odds-on to make their way past their tricky play-off opponents.

England squads usually feel the brunt of a full English league season, which might go on as late as the 22^nd May, and Fabio Capello might have to re-vamp any possible 23 he has in mind at this stage, to make way for injuries.

Injury permitting however the Italian has an excellent group of players to choose from, and like every wannabe manager I’ve had a go at churning out my own version of the squad.

So get ready to sharpen your knives and here we go.

Goalkeepers

David James: - England’s most experienced goalkeeper, and comfortably number one in the side despite being recently overlooked for Robert Green. Important to England’s chances that he brings the same form he’s produced over the past three years as oppose to his ‘calamitous’ side that we saw while he was at Liverpool.

Robert Green: - Even though I’m not a fan of the keeper, it would be naïve of me to suggest that he won’t be in the squad. For his country, apart from the error that could have seen him sent off against Slovenia, he’s been pretty solid, but his day-to-day work with his club worries me.

Joe Hart: - A sure international goalkeeper of the future and the experience of a World Cup at his age and stage will be invaluable. As an England fan I wouldn’t be at all worried if he was introduced as an emergency goalkeeper at some point as his talent is undeniable. His shrewd loan move to Birmingham alone shows his desire to make this squad

Defenders

Glen Johnson: - His defensive abilities have been rightly scrutinised but it seems that his attacking intent will see him start as first choice full back for Capello.

John Terry: - Aiming to become the second England captain to lift the World Cup, and just like Bobby Moore, Terry is the heart and soul of this England side. His fitness is crucial to their chances.

Rio Ferdinand: - Lack of fitness or lack of match practise? Whatever you want to call it Ferdinand is far from his best right now. The worry mainly surrounds his form because of the lack of world-class replacements, and the contrast of the strength and no nonsense approach of Terry with Ferdinand’s composure and pace is difficult to find elsewhere. He’ll make the squad and the team but he must buck up his ideas.

Ashley Cole: - Arguably the best left back in the world right now and he’s one of the first names on the England team sheet. Might be the only solely left-footed left sided player in the squad so his contribution going forward will need to be thorough.

Matthew Upson: - The hard-hitting defender has made himself third choice centre-back and will ably step in if either Terry or Ferdinand is struck down. A certainty who is likely to play second fiddle for the most part in South Africa

Wayne Bridge: - Like Upson is a certainty to be on the plane, but may well not appear in the tournament whatsoever. Solid, if not spectacular left back.

Wes Brown: - Capello seems to see something in Brown that many, including Sir Alex Ferguson, doesn’t. For a long time Brown was the team’s first choice full back ahead of Johnson, and his versatility, including the ability to fill in at centre back will be his trump card and see him creep onto the plane.

Midfielders

Frank Lampard: - After calls for him to be dropped from the England side, his true ability has been summed up in this qualifying campaign as he adapted his style of play to fit in Capello’s 4-2-3-1 formation. His breaking from deep might be un-defendable manoeuvre for most countries.

Gareth Barry: - His defensive minded role means his worth to the side is hugely undervalued, but in a day and age where a holding midfield role is almost mandatory Barry fits the bill perfectly. Another sure starter for the opening group game.

Steven Gerrard: - I still feel he under-whelms too often for his country but his sheer potential to thrill means he shouldn’t be underestimated and should definitely not be excluded. Asked to play out on the left far to often, and it clearly affects his performances. Joe Cole’s return to fitness might interest him.

Theo Walcott: - His hat-trick in Zagreb assured he’d make his second World Cup squad and his electric pace is sure to terrorise defences in South Africa. Whether he’ll be blooded from the start or not is to be decided, as a number of injuries kept him out of the back end of the qualifying campaign.

Owen Hargreaves: - Set to make his comeback from a long term injury next month but his importance to the team, something that we saw in abundance in Germany four years ago is nothing short of unique. If fit, his versatility and high-energy will see him take one the last remaining places, at the expense of his club team-mate Michael Carrick.

Joe Cole: - Another who could make the journey despite seeing a long injury limit his involvement in the qualifying campaign. Is still the solution to England longstanding problem on the left-hand side and has always popped up with important goals. Could make a surprise start if he hits top form.

David Beckham: - Now that Beckham has assured himself a move to AC Milan in January he should be attending his record fourth World Cup. His contribution may well be limited to just a number of late substitutions, but his know-how in pressure filled situations will be crucial.

James Milner: - Several players are fighting it out for this final midfield place, and I expect Milner to kick on this season seal his place in Capello’s squad. With an excellent final ball, the ability to beat a player, being adept with both feet and plenty of experience on the international stage (albeit it with the under-21’s) he’ll be the perfect impact player for England.

Strikers

Wayne Rooney: - England’s irreplaceable player. Rooney has now added more goals to his repertoire. His fitness and form is vital to England’s chances, and no other player can boast their importance to the side more than the Manchester United striker.

Emile Heskey: - He’s been rightly criticised for his goal-scoring form, but his importance to the team goes far beyond his goal contribution. Apart from making space for England’s ‘flair’ players, his work with his back to goal can’t be replicated elsewhere in the squad. The sort of player you need to win big tournaments as he does so much grafting on and off the ball.

Jermaine Defoe: - His two goals in Holland all but assured his place in the squad and his league form suggests the World Cup is coming at the perfect time for the striker. Rumours that he’ll start ahead of Heskey are far from the truth but he’ll be England’s go-to-guy if things go pear shaped.

Peter Crouch: - Reasons for his inclusion are about as long as his 6 ft 7inch frame. His goal scoring record for both England and his club Spurs is excellent for a player who isn’t first choice in either side and I have yet to see a defender deal with his incredible height. Yes the side’s style of play is sometimes affected by his introduction as a substitute but he’s sure to get goals when given a chance.

Micheal Owen: - If fit and getting goals then it’s difficult to see Owen being left out of this England squad. The country’s fourth highest ever goal scorer adds to an already impressive strike force and if anyone has the ability to produce the goods on the big stage then it’s Owen.

As ever there’s players that will miss out. Darren Bent has never quiet cut it in his short International career but maybe deserves a chance in at least one of the remaining warm-up games to reward his good club form. He same could be said about Carlton Cole

Aaron Lennon and Shaun Wright Phillips have pace in abundance but loose out to a goal-hungry Walcott, a delivery specialist in Milner and the experience of Beckham, components that both these wingers lack at International level

As for the goalkeepers, Ben Foster has chosen the worst possible season to start making high profile mistakes and it’s obvious he’s not ready to be trusted with a big international in the World Cup.

The tournament has come a bit to early for Adam Johnson, whose form in the Championship has been nothing short of stunning. Expect him to be part of the post-World Cup era.

As ever you’ll all have your separate opinion about who should and shouldn’t go to next years World Cup, and please feel free to post your recommendations, queries and concerns about my squad selection below.

Liverpool’s Challenge is Far From Over

It’s 45 years since a team from England’s top flight lost four of its opening nine league games and then went on to win the league title.

This stat might be disappointing reading for any other side in this years Premiership title race, but for Liverpool, who have been turned over no more than four times already this season, history is on their side.

They were the side that endured those four defeats in their first nine games, and the same side that turned around that difficult start by winning the league title by four points from Manchester United.

Yes the league seasons have shortened since those days in the 60’s and the margin for error was greater but its proof that even with a terrible start like that of the 63/64 Liverpool title winning team that no team should be simultaneously written off as possible title winners.

But by the same token maybe there’s a good a reason why it’s been so long.

Liverpool, believe it or not, are only six points off the pace in the league despite those four defeats; and as a result they’re already been all but written off as possible champions this time next May.

In truth the fixture list has not been kind to the Reds, with three of their defeats coming against teams that finished in the top eight last season.

The fourth came on Saturday; against Steve Bruce’s reinvigorated Sunderland, who are another club feeling the benefit of a generous American owner and an ambitious new manager.

Managerial frailties of both Roy Keane and Ricky Sbragia meant the Black Cats finished just two points above the relegation zone last season- but now after taking four points off last seasons top two they can firmly set their sights on joining that top eight.

Rafael Benitez could argue his side have now endured the worst of all their away league games and that now their season can properly start.

The thing that for me sets Liverpool above their other title contenders is that they seem to be able to dig out results without their star players- something that is well documented as nothing more than a fallacy.

Last season Chelsea struggled to keep up with the pacesetters after constant injuries and loss of form to Didier Drogba, and then latterly to Joe Cole who made his first league appearance since January on Saturday at Villa Park.

Manchester United constantly needed to rely on both Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo to win matches last season, in fact not a single player apart from the pair reached double figures for goals in the league last season.

The reigning champions have already shown a great deal of vulnerability in defence this season and without the host of goals the Portuguese International consistently provided the champions purely rely on Rooney for goals, and it was no coincidence that without him United only stumbled past Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

Only winger Ryan Giggs looks like creating a spark in Sir Alex Ferguson’s team, and the Scot can’t reply on the 35-year old to play every game this season let alone to keeping digging his side out of a hole every week.

Liverpool however seem to be able to call upon the rest of their squad, albeit thin on the ground, to chip in with goals while their big stars sit on the sidelines.

Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard started just 13 league games together last season, and while it’s perceived that the duo are relied on entirely for Liverpool’s success the reality is far different.

Together they contributed 30 (38%) of Liverpool’s goals as they finished second behind United.

However Ronaldo and Rooney, United’s alternative superstars, scored the same amount of goals, but that amounted to 44% of the team’s overall effort, while in terms of total starts between them they made just six more than their rivals from Anfield.

The extent of Liverpool’s goal threat was summed up by Dirk Kuyt’s goal effort, as the Dutchman, Liverpool’s third top goal scorer last season with 12, was equal with United’s second top goal scorer Rooney.

I think it’s a slight myth that Liverpool only perform with Torres and Gerrard in the side, yes Saturday’s defeat highlighted how much they miss the duo, but I’d debate the defeat was more down to a bizarre change of tactics and bad luck.

And in addition with the amount of defeats last season’s top four have already endured it’s unlikely we’ll see a team win the title with less than five defeats to their name-the gap between the ‘top four’ and the rest of the league seems to be shrinking with an increasing number of foreign investments littering the league.

Next weekend sees a pivotal game for the Red’s title hopes as they host Manchester United in a match they won last season without their two much talked about stars.

A defeat would see a nine point gap open up in late October but writing Benitez’s team out of the title race would still be foolish to say the least.