The Curious Case of Goal-line Technology

Another weekend, and yet another call has come bellowing from the English Football community for goal-line technology to be introduced into our game.

The victim on this occasion was Crystal Palace, who had a legitimate goal ruled out by both the referee Rob Shoebridge and his linesman.

To rub salt in the wound Palace went on to lose the game 1-0 with a late Nicky Maynard goal at Ashton Gate.

Palace manager Neil Warnock has been quick to lambaste the guilty officials, who have been suspended from duty indefinitely, and the Bristol City playing and coaching staff.

The former Sheffield United manager has claimed their opponents should have owned up to the goal being scored to help the officials make the correct decision.

In a weird twist Warnock seems to have attempted to shed some of the blame from Shoebridge and co and towards Gary Johnson’s and his staff and players.

In truth it’s difficult to side with Warnock, considering making crucial decisions like that are not one a set of players should be making.

Yet again the decision, or lack of one but brought up the debate of goal-line technology on the football pitch but yet again it’s set to meet opposition from FIFA.

A concept, set to be trialled in this season Europa League, uses an official standing either side of each goal on both sides instead of a technology system.

The same idea is used in Rugby Union, where the linesmen stand either side of the posts when a penalty or conversion kick is due to being taken.

As appealing as the option of cameras or sensors in the goalmouth is, the option would not be readily available at grassroots level, this way means the rules can be staggered down through the various levels of professional football.

Saturday’s bizarre incident brought back memories of the ‘Phantom’ goal scored by Reading at Watford last season, and on that same occasion referee Stuart Attwell was also suspended, but returned to Premiership action later that season.

In all fairness, for the officials not to have seen something that happened is one thing, but for a referee to create a goal from no-where is something quiet different.

Shoebridge should be given a second chance there’s no doubt, but not in the same way Attwell has been, as he’s continued to referee at a high level and constantly make mistakes.

As for the technology well it seems that calls just won’t go away, and that this latest idea is simply a time saving device for FIFA, as they resist in turning to the technology route that so many sports have gone down.

Gunn Takes the Bullet As the Managerial Merry-go-round Begins

With the football season just six days old, the football league has endured its first managerial casualty.

Brain Gunn, the former Norwich City player has been relinquish of his position at Carrow Road after just two games this season.

The Canaries were in shocking form as they lost 7-1 on the opening day of the season to Colchester United, before a Grant Holt hat trick helped them ease past Yeovil Town in the League Cup in mid-week.

Gunn has been in charge of the club for eight months after taking the club down from the Championship last season after Glen Roeder’s unceremonious exit in January.

He was unable to keep the club in the Championship, but despite this disappointment Norwich were one of the firm favourites for promotion for League One this season.

After just one league game however, albeit a heavy defeat against Colchester, Gunn has departed and has left the Norwich board searching for a manager to gift them the perfect return to the Championship.

Three names have already come to the fore in Paul Tidsdale of Exeter City, Mark Robins of League Two Rotherham, and currently unattached manager Alan Curbishley.

Tidsdale has recently secured successive promotions with the Grecians, while former Norwich player Robins guided Rotherham to safety in League Two after the club were deducted 17 points at the beginning of last season.

Curbishley, since stepping down from the job at West Ham United early last season has been linked with a number of high profile jobs and it’s left to be seen whether he can be tempted out of the managerial wilderness by Norwich.

However as Gunn’s sacking opens the door for one of these three talented managers to take the mantle, it again raises the concern over the time given to managers in this current football climate.

For a club like Norwich, one that are built for Championship or even Premiership football, another season in League One could be devastating for the clubs finances, sure to have been hit by their previous relegations.

With success paramount, the longevity of managers job’s at clubs such at Norwich are becoming smaller and smaller.

Last season 39 managers lost their jobs, and with a sacking within a week of the season starting we could see that figure beaten before the season is up.

For Norwich, with expectations high the next appointment could make or break their season, one that they can’t afford to mess up.

Barclays Premier League 2009/10 Season Preview

One of the best and most predictable leagues in the world starts this weekend, but this year could far different than years gone by.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United have all lost players, while Chelsea have a new manager and Manchester City have spent millions of pounds in an attempt to break into that elusive top four.

Elsewhere newly promoted sides Birmingham City, Burnley and Wolves will be aiming to make an impact in one of the leagues more open years.

Arsenal:- Another summer, and more of Arsenal’s best players have departed but still the media and fans expect the same top four finish. The sales of Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayour might have in a strange way been a welcome relief for the fans, but the inability to attract replacements might make them think again, and something that could be a factor that writes them out of the title race before its even begun. However the Gunners have always thrived on being underdogs going into a season as they showed two years ago after the sale of Thierry Henry. Andrey Arshavin’s first full season in this country could be one to savour, but a lot of the fans will point towards Robin van Persie, who had his best season in an Arsenal shirt year. More of same will be the message from the Emirates.

Aston Villa:- Martin O’Neill will do very well to repeat the heroics of last season when an excellent opening two thirds to the season saw them push Arsenal all the way in qualification for the Champions League. After loosing out in the closing weeks of the season the loss of Gareth Barry won’t help close that gap. Stuart Downing and Fabian Delph have been brought in, but given Delph’s age and inexperience its unlikely he’ll play week in week out. As for Downing, without a single Premiership goal last season a £12,000,000 price tag might seem a bit steep for the left winger, and given that he’ll be almost certainly be moving Ashley Young to the right hand side, away from a position he’s made his own, it could disrupt the sides dynamics. Top half is a certainty but Europe should be beyond them.

Birmingham City:- Plenty of investment this summer has raised hopes across the Midlands this season. Plenty of players from the Championship have come in including Scott Dann and Roger Johnson, while the club broke a club record in signing Christian Benitez for over £7,000,000. The success of the new Ecuadorian striker will be crucial in the clubs survival hopes, but Alex McLeish has a decent spine of the team to work the squad around. Joe Hart, Johnson, Lee Carsley and James McFadden are the Blues big players this season, and for me with a quality starting eleven at their disposal survival shouldn’t be a problem for the St Andrews side.

Blackburn Rovers:- The loss of Roque Santa Cruz might be seen by most fans as a huge loss, but in truth the £18,000,000 gained for the player is a great deal for Rovers. The Paraguayan played very little last season after a knee injury ruined most of his season, but it might be the loses across the rest of the pitch that could hurt the side. Aaron Mokoena and Andre Ooijer have both departed, and although they’re not big names they added the needed steel to the side. Replacements have been few and far between, and goals will again be a problem. With Sam Allardyce the team are always going to do the basics right and be well organised, but I worry about where the goals will come from. They should gain enough points to survive at the end of the season, but I predict a bottom eight finish.

Bolton Wanderers:- With four signings all leaning towards adding strength to the back four the onus will yet again be on Kevin Davies to provide more heroics at the other end of the pitch. The skipper endured his best ever season in the Premiership with 11 goals last season, but he’ll need help from others if Bolton are to retain their Premiership status. Johan Elmander will want to improve on a return of just five goals last season, a poultry sum after his £12,000,000 transfer. They look pretty sound at the back with Zat Knight joining England hopeful Gary Cahill in the middle of defence, while Sean Davis will partner Fabrice Muamba, one of the stars for England’s Under 21’s this summer, in the middle of midfield.

Burnley:- They came from no-where last season to grab promotion from Sheffield United at Wembley, and now Owen Coyle has the biggest challenge of all; keeping Burnley in the Premiership. On first assessment you’d think they haven’t strengthened enough for the new season. Steven Fletcher, a man with no Premiership experience has been signed for £3,000,000 from Hibernian, in a deal where the money could have been spent more effectively elsewhere. Richard Eckersly and David Edgar won’t exactly set the world alight either in a league where they have little experience as well. Coyle, sure to have been restricted by funds, hasn’t made the most of them and he’s set to suffer as a result. Relegation seems a certainty for them.

Chelsea:- Carlo Ancelotti’s first season in charge is sure to be full of expectations. After three years without a league title Chelsea will be keen to get back on the winning road, while still trying to hunt down that elusive Champions League trophy. Three managers have tried and failed, and Ancelotti, a veteran of two wins on Europe’s biggest stage could be the man to provide it. I worry over the money he’s spent this summer though. I’ll be the first to mention how brilliant a player Yuri Zhirkov is, but I don’t see how he fits into the Chelsea side, especially with their new diamond midfield, it’s a puzzling signing. Ross Turnbull and Daniel Sturridge have also joined, having turned down first team football elsewhere for a pay packet at Stamford Bridge. Always title challengers, but getting the system and the partnership up-front correct is crucial for their chances.

Everton:- After spending most of last season without a recognised striker but still reaching the FA Cup final, Everton will be struggling to think how they can repeat last seasons heroics. The return of Yakubu and an extended loan of Jo, who impressed last season, despite my own reservations about the deal, should give the club the added firepower they need. The possible departure of Joleon Lescott will be a serious blow, and his possible replacement Philipe Senderos is quiet frankly not up to scratch. Top half should be achieved, but Europe might be a long shot.

Fulham:- After last season’s unbelievable finale Roy Hodgson would have been fully focused on building a bigger squad for a tougher season that will included European football. Bjorn Helge Riise has signing for £2,000,000, and Stephen Kelly on a free, but these are the solitary signings by Hodgson, not exactly the squad building the fans had in mind. They will take solace in fighting off bids for Brede Hangeland however, while they still fight for the signature of Jonathan Greening. Mid-table would be a credible finish, as they strive to compete on the European stage, mixing the two will be a difficult task.

Hull City:- If Phil Brown is to keep the Tigers in the Premiership this year, equalling the start the club had in the opening half of the season (27 points) will be crucial to the cause. Only eight more were gathered in the second half and with a losing mentality now instilled within the players you can’t see much changing at the KC Stadium. New players were initially hard to come by, with the deal to bring in Bobby Zamora breaking down at the last minute. But Stephen Hunt and Kamel Ghilas have been signed just days before the beginning of the season, and with Real Madrid’s Alvaro Negredo also set to join things finally seem to be coming together. Despite these imports it seems unlikely Brown can beat last seasons excellent start and relegation looks difficult to avoid this time around.

Liverpool:- Rafa Benitez at the end of last season has put together squad capable of finally breaking the clubs Premiership duck and delivering a first title to Anfield. However the sale of Xavi Alonso, a player whose range of passing made him one of Europe’s hottest properties and that of established full-back Alvaro Arbeloa broke that squad up immediately. Glen Johnson has come in to replace the right-back but in Alberto Aquilani, a £20,000,000 signing from Roma, Benitez has not properly replaced the Spanish midfielder. Aquilani is more forward thinking that Alonso, not to mention how prone to injury he is, something that keeps him out of the beginning of this season. The Reds did show they coped ably without both Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, but if both are fit for a longer period this season, the Premiership title isn’t far away.

Manchester City:- Nearly a £100,000,000 has been spent by Mark Hughes this summer and with every high profile signing that has arrived, pressure has added from the fans, and owners and the football world that this team can be the first since Everton to break the top four. Yes Everton have yet to finish that high since, but this City side with its star-studded line-up have the capabilities to stay there for the foreseeable future. My only worry is the lack of experience in winning league titles that the squad have. Only Kolo Toure and Carlos Tevez have won a Premiership title as a player, while Mark Hughes won it as a player with neighbours United. Hughes turned around a struggling Blackburn side and took them into Europe, but he now has a bigger challenge to convert a mid-table side into Premiership contenders. Top four a bridge too far for the Eastlands club.

Manchester United:- As if attempting to win a forth successive Premiership title was hard enough, United will have to do it without both Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo. Replacing the hefty amount of goals that the Portuguese International contributed will be the first port of call for Sir Alex Ferguson. Michael Owen and Antonio Valencia have come in to replace the duo, but it’s unsure as yet whether they can step in to guide United to yet another Premeirship title. The loss of both Edwin Van Der Sar and Nemanja Vidic for the beginning of the season is a big one, given United’s predictably slow start. The side’s loses have been the worst of the top four and seeing them at the top of league in May is a difficult thing to see.

Portsmouth:- With all the focus on the club’s possible takeover it’s important to remember the awful loses the team have encountered. Last season’s top scorer Peter Crouch has gone to Tottenham, Glen Johnson has moved to Liverpool and Sol Campbell’s contract has run out forcing him to leave as well. Add to that the appointment of Paul Hart as manager and you’ve got a recipe for disaster at Fratton Park. The exits don’t seem like letting up, and as for Hart, a man who barely kept the club up last season, he’s sure to struggle over a whole season in the Premiership. With a wafer thin squad, no money available and an inexperienced manager at the helm relegation seems a certainty.

Stoke City:- After finishing six points above the relegation zone last season Tony Pulis might have been worrying about how ‘second season syndrome’ might affect his squad this season. To prevent that Dean Whitehead has been brought for £3,000,000, and he should add a bit of stylishness to the Potters midfield. Additions to the squad though have halted at the former Sunderland midfielder, and the squad will be basically the same one that beat off relegation last season. Teams will have adapted to Stoke’s long throw tactics and being found out, particular at home will worry Pulis. James Beattie’s goals will be crucial in keeping the side afloat.

Sunderland:- This time last season under Roy Keane’s management the fans at the Stadium of Light had high hops of a top eight finish after signing the likes of Djibril Cisse in the close season. Now with Steve Bruce preparing to re-build a club who came within a whisker of relegation, hopes of mid-table are just as high after a number of big money buys. Darren Bent, Lee Cattermole and Frazer Campbell have signed for big fees to bolster the squad. Add to that the return to full fitness of Kenwyne Jones and the Black Cats can be considered contenders for a top half finish, under Bruce, a manager who is well equipped to turn the club around.

Tottenham Hotspur:- Harry Redknapp first summer at White Hart Lane has been an eventful one. Peter Crouch has been signed again by Redknapp, along with Sebastien Bassong and Sheffield United pair Kyle Naughton and Kyle Walker. Walker will return to Sheffield on loan, while Basong and Naughton will bolster what has been a struggling defence in recent times. Jonathan Woodgate looks set to miss the beginning of the season, and with concerns always surrounding the fitness of Ledley King, Redknapp’s defensive minded signings are shrewd enough to consider Spurs as top half contenders. Crouch will link up with Jermaine Defoe as he did at Portsmouth, but his partnership with Robbie Keane, who loves playing with a taller player up front, could push Spurs into the top eight.

West Ham United:- A lack of funds at Upton Park has restricted the activity in the transfer window this summer. However Gianfranco Zola has an excellent squad at his disposal already and with Dean Ashton set to return for the new season along with Carlton Cole another top half finish could be possible. Cole stepped up with more goals in the second half of the season to replace the goal threat of the departed Craig Bellamy. Lucas Neill has failed to renew his deal however and he’ll be a big loss for the Hammers. Finishing higher than last season’s ninth might be a big ask however, as their opponents continue to improve.

Wigan Athletic:- Roberto Martinez has been trusted in bringing his passing football game, that he developed at Swansea City, to Wigan Athletic in the Premiership. However without the same elegant players available at the DW Stadium it might be difficult to translate his fast passed playing style. The loss of Antonio Valencia and Lee Catermole is hugely decisive, but Martinez has replaced Emile Heskey who departed in January with Jason Scotland. Scotland’s strength and quality with his back to goal is similar to that of Heskey, but his transition into the Premiership from the Championship will have to be instant. Scott Sinclair has joined his eighth club in four years, to continue his apprenticeship away from Chelsea, while Jordi Gomez is another ex Swansea player to join Martinez at his new club. However with Martinez signing players who are unproven in the Premiership his transfer deals are a slight gamble. Survival must be the team’s ambition.

Wolverhampton Wanderers:- Mick McCarthy had a difficult time the last time he was promoted into the Premiership. With Sunderland he was sacked as manager in March after an awful season at the Stadium of Light. The club eventually finished with just 15 points, but with the squad that McCarthy has at Molineux and the money he’s had to spend, not a luxury he had while at Sunderland, could help keep the team in the league on this occasion. Kevin Doyle adds to an impressive goal threat, Andrew Surman will brings goals from mid-field as well as the ability to fill in at full back and Marcus Hahnemann will compete for the Number 1 jersey. Michael Mancienne returns on loan from Chelsea for another season in maybe the most crucial of all their transfer dealings. Survival is realistic.

Champions: Liverpool
Champions League: Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal
Europa League: Manchester City, Tottenham Hotsphur, (Aston Villa)
Relegated: Portsmouth, Hull City, Burnley

England Make the Most of the Early Season

England showed a fighting spirit in Amsterdam as they recovered from 2-0 down to salvage a draw against Holland.

Individual mistakes overshadowed a decent first half from Fabio Capello’s side, as both Rio Ferdinand and Gareth Barry’s wayward back-passes ended in Holland goals for Dirk Kuyt and Rafael Van Der Vaart, in the opening 45 minutes.

But two goals from substitute Jerrmaine Defoe gave England a well earned draw against the Number 3 country in the world, and one that have already secured their place in South Africa for next years World Cup.

Holland were unusually inept for long periods of the game, but they crucially did the simple things correctly particularly in the first half where England’s defensive capabilities were called into question.

The visitor’s two mistakes were the only openings the Dutch made in the entire 90 minutes in-fact as England’s second half substitutions excelled in dragging themselves back into the game.

Carlton Cole and James Milner were particular magnificent with the West Ham forward producing his best performance of his short England career.

Milner provided the cross for Defoe’s second, while troubling Holland’s full back John Heitinga throughout his second half display.

Michael Carrick boosted his reputation in the middle of the park, laying on the pass for Defoe’s opening goal while producing a calming influence in the defensive third.

Critics had slated England strength in depth before the game, but after this performance Fabio Cappello will be fully confident of his entire squad.

Only Ashley Young will be disappointed with his performance, as the Aston Villa winger failed to stamp his mark on the game, in stark contrast to his fellow team-mate Milner.

In previous friendlies against France and Spain England had poorly performed on the road, while failing to compete against some of the world’s best countries.

Tonight however, for almost the entire 90 minutes, England showed the composure Capello has instilled in the side, while they seem to have the added confidence to play an expansive game away from home.

The real star of the night was certainly Cole, who despite not getting on the score sheet played brilliantly with his back to goal and proved how he should be the one to compete with Emile Heskey for a starting place in the side and not Peter Crouch.

Crouch doesn’t seem to quiet have the same unique touch on the ball, and Cole’s ability to bring others into play with both feet and head is something Crouch hasn’t been able to fully grasp.

Defoe may well have assured his place on the plane to South Africa next summer with this performance, another success under the stewardship of Capello.

Tonight England learnt plenty that will stand them in good stead for next summers World Cup, and enough that might quieten the critics who hinted that this fixture might be needless before the season has started.

Capello might suggest otherwise.

Coca Cola Championship 2009/10 Season Preview

In spite of it being unwarranted, this season’s Championship season is bound to be dominated by one team; Newcastle United.

The shock relegation of the Magpies is set to be the focus of attention all season long, and regardless of an uncertain summer the bookies have installed the team as second favourites to win the title.

Coverage has been limited about the rest of the Championship sides, who will be licking their lips at a possible scalp in the North East.

Barnsley:- Simon Davey, maybe down to his FA Cup exploits a year ago, has continued as the main man at Oakwell and after a final day survival scrap the Yorkshire faithful have reason to be worried about this season coming. The summer’s transfer dealings have been all about renewing players contracts, and it’s been a successful one with Luke Steele, Rob Kuzluk and Jon Macken all signing on the dotted line. Macken’s role this season is an important one, with goals always a problem for the Tykes. Returning Ian Hume will be important as well, as the side showed a notable decline after his fractured skull at the hands of Chris Morgan.

Blackpool:- A season that went largely unnoticed throughout the football league saw Blackpool finish a full 10 points above the relegation zone, in a season where they lost their influential manager Simon Grayson. Ian Holloway is the new man, and even though the former QPR manager is a well-spirited man, he needs to begin to produce at Championship level. His dealings in the transfer market won’t exactly strike confidence in the tangerine fans, with Billy Clarke, who spent most of last season in League Two, replacing DJ Campbell. The signing of Charlie Adam is a coup however in a permanent deal for the Scot worth £500,000. The former Rangers man has turned down Champions League football for a relegation battle, one that many onlookers will feel will be unsuccessful.

Bristol City:- Gary Johnson is set for a second tilt at promotion with Bristol City, and having already fallen in a Wembley final before he’ll be keen to secured one of those two elusive automatic promotion spots. City finished a respectable mid-table last season, but a host of signings have seen expectations are soar. The loss of Dele Adebola has been softened by Danny Haynes’ signing, but maybe most importantly is the introduction of Paul Hartley, a hugely experienced midfielder whose come from Celtic. The confusion over Adriano Basso’ future is a worry; with the occasionally clumsy Dean Gurkin set to begin the season in goal. Michael McIndoe is another big loss, but given the money spent Johnson will be aiming for a top six finish.

Cardiff City:- After last season’s disastrous finish to the season, this probably wasn’t ideal timing for the club to move into their new originally named new stadium-the Cardiff City Stadium. New stadiums usually destroy all the intimacy that sides had at their previous grounds, and it would take an ambitious fan to admit that some of the atmosphere won’t be lost from Ninian Park. The side’s trump card was always their hostile home support, but now without that the team might struggle to get close to the play-offs this season. Michael Chopra has returned, but if the expected loss of Ross McCormack and Joe Ledley, who could both sign for Hull, transpires then it could be a long season for the Welsh club.

Coventry City:- Plenty of money was spent and then wasted last summer by Chris Coleman and after overachieving hugely last season, plenty of their quality players have opted to leave the Ricoh Arena. Daniel Fox, Jay Tabb, who left during last season, and Scott Dann have all gone, and after the reckless way Coleman spent money last summer the focus has been towards bringing youth players through to the first team. Lots will be expected of Freddy Eastwood after a disappointing season just gone, but the undoubted star is Aron Gunnarsson, who big throw and big heart provides coal for the engine room of that Coventry mid-field. They should avoid the bottom three-but don’t expect much lea-way after that.

Crystal Palace:- Most had Palace down for a top six finish last season, but the team disappointed to the extent that relegation issues were more apparent than any in the top half of the table. More focus will be on the development of the younger players in the squad, in particularly Nathanial Clyne, whom Neil Warnock has spoken a lot of in the off season. Sam Scannell has the potential to dominate the season at Selhurst Park, and with the addition of Freddy Sears from West Ham on loan, and of Darren Ambrose formerly of Newcastle the team look in good shape to build from finishing in the bottom half last season.

Derby County:- With time bound to be on his side, and lefts face it history as well, Nigel Clough has the perfect opportunity to weave his magic at Pride Park. After inheriting a troubled squad, still reeling after a record winless run and a humiliating relegation from the Premiership, Clough has begun to ring the changes and bring in a number of players from his non-league days. Dean Moxey has joined from Exeter City as have Burton pair Jake Buxton and Saul Denney. Yes these players are far from Championship quality, but their potential seemed enough for Clough to draft them in alongside the likes of Kris Commons and Giles Barnes. Both are key for the Rams this season as is Rob Hulse, whose knack of scoring in the Championship doesn’t seem to be wearing off just yet.

Doncaster Rovers:- Trouble afoot for Doncaster this season, with most of their better players off to find a bigger wage packet Sean O’Driscoll has a bigger task of keeping the side in the Championship than that of last season. Ritchie Wellens is the most high profile departure, but Matt Mills moved to Reading just days before the beginning of the season and he’ll be fondly missed at the back. That leaves plenty of responsibility on the shoulder of Brain Stock. The influential Welshman is the team’s star player after the sale of Wellens, and anything good that Donny do next season, something that could be at a premium, will go through him.

Ipswich Town:- After his Premiership nightmare with Sunderland, Roy Keane has returned to the Championship-the venue of his first managerial success. He’s joined a club who have flattered to deceive since their relegation from the Premiership, Ipswich Town, whose owner Marcus Evans is sure to bankroll any promotion push. Initially Keane has had to deal with a host of departures, Danny Haynes being the most high profile. The front line of Jonathan Walters, Pablo Counago and new signing Tamas Priskin is decent enough, while much will be expected of David Norris after a controversial season. Keane has the foundations of a good side and given his impact at the back end of last season the top six are well in sight.

Leicester City:- How supporters at St Mary’s be rueing the day Nigel Pearson left the south coast. After keeping Saints in the Championship the season before last, the club rid of Pearson as they opted for a ‘total football’ ethic- with painful results. Meanwhile Pearson was working his magic at the Walkers Stadium forming a team that dominated League One and won promotion with 95 points. The team’s formidable spine of Jack Hobbs, who has signed permanently for the Foxes, Matt Oakley and Matty Fryatt will looked to bring them further success this season, and few wouldn’t bet against it. Ritchie Wellens will add some flair to the midfield as well as some goals, but also look out for Danny N’Guessan who won’t be first choice upfront, but is sure to ruffle some feathers are his move from Lincoln City.

Middlesbrough:- Gareth Southgate is living on borrowed time at the Riverside, but with an understanding Chairman in Steve Gibson it’s no surprise he’s been given a season to make up for a disappointing relegation. The obvious problem last season was goals, and the signing of Leroy Lita should rectify that. Lita has good experience at this level with Reading, and he’ll play alongside Alfonso Alves on most occasions, whose four goals last season was a poultry sum after his £12,000,000 transfer from Heerenveen. The loss of Stuart Downing and Ross Turnbull is only a slight concern, with Adam Johnson and Brad Jones ready to step in. With a quality squad at his disposal and time on his side, the team are my favourites to be Champions.

Newcastle United:- With the season beginning this week Newcastle are without a new owner or a permanent manager. They’ve lost Sebastien Bassong, Obafemi Martins and Michael Owen this summer while bringing in not a single new face. Their head coach has taken charge of fewer than 15 matches as a manager, and yet bookies and pundits alike are tipping them for promotion at the first time of asking. Given how little progress the club has made over the summer, and the scarring the squad would have taken after relegation it’s unreasonable to expect automatic success. Hughton is not equipped as a manager to get the side even close to the top six, and in truth the squad is hardly in the best shape either. The fans for once might accept a mid-table finish, as they finally abandon their ridiculously ambitious demands.

Nottingham Forest:- Billy Davies is a veteran of two play-off finals in his managerial career. One with Preston in 2005, and another in 2007 with Derby County. He admitted that after getting Derby promoted after a 1-0 win over West Brom that promotion came at least a season too early. Davies last season took over Nottingham Forest, and after a massive squad re-build in the summer and some decent money spent the club can look forward to a decent push into the top half-but Davies will be wary repeating what he did with Derby during this season with Forest. Yes they’ve brought in some decent players; Dexter Blackstock is bound to score goals, as is Dele Adebola but you might worry about the centre of their defence that shipped 65 goals last season.

Peterborough United:- After being largely bankrolled for the previous two years, Darren Ferguson has his biggest task yet, and it’s one that will really test his metal as the quality manager. Successive promotions, albeit an impressive stat, might have been marred by the financial backing Ferguson Jr had from owner Darragh MacAnthony. This season in a league where the club can’t compete with the money bags of the division it’ll be interesting to see whether Ferguson’s exciting squad can take another league by storm. He’ll have problems keeping any of his three-pronged attack, particularly George Boyd in the transfer window, and after limited activity in the summer their squad does appear to be at the bare bones. A good start can assure they don’t get caught up in a relegation battle.

Plymouth Argyle:- Paul Sturrock guided Plymouth to safety last season, but after more departures in the summer the club are staring down the barrel of a long hard season. Bradley Wright-Philips has signed from Southampton, but an injury will see him miss the beginning of the season. Goals at either end will be problem, and Rory Fallon has the responsibility to find the net while it seems plenty of youth players will be brought in to bolster the squad. Funds haven’t been readily available despite the recent take-over, which will frustrate Sturrock whose been working under financial restrictions since his return.

Preston North-End:- If Owen Coyle had failed in his promotion attempt with Burnley, then Alan Ervine’s job at Preston last season would surely have come under more praise. West Brom saw his talent from afar, before going with Roberto Di Matteo, and that’s sure not to be the last approach the club will receive with Ervine’s services. In terms of the work done to the squad in the off the season the focus was mainly on keeping there prized assets, particularly Sean St Ledge and Jon Parkin, both of which signed new deals. Paul McKenna was a casualty of the squad however, and with only Paul Parry coming in the size of the squad is a problem. For Ervine to reproduce what he did last season would be a miracle, what’s more likely is that he’s tempted away by the glitz of the Premiership, something no-one would begrudge him of.

QPR:- A multi-million pound takeover over a year ago has only brought despair for the fans at Loftus Road, and not the success the owners wished. Three managers have come and gone, and now it’s the turn of Jim Magilton, hardly the name the fans had in mind when promotion is continually talked about. Magilton didn’t have the best of times at Portman Road, finishing in the top half in each season, but never coming close to contesting a play-off spot. Money is predictably around with Alejandro Faurlin signing for £3,000,000 from Instituto and much is expected of the Argentine, but Frenchman Adel Taarabt has looked bright in pre-season and he is set to be Rangers’ star player. Like most teams goals might be a problem after the sale of Dexter Blackstock and the midfielders including Martin Rowlands might be landed with the added responsibility. Magilton will be sacked before Christmas if the owners keep up their crazy trigger-finger policy.

Reading:- I naively wrote Reading off last season in their first season back in the Championship, but after stuttering towards the play-offs they were eventually beaten by Burnley in the two legged play-off semi-final. It was a convincing defeat, and with it Steve Coppell left the club to make way for Brenden Rodgers. The hugely respected coach has come from Watford to try and mastermind promotion, but yet again the side are reeling after their summer sales. Kevin Doyle has finally gone to Wolves as has Marcus Hahnemann. Rodgers will be well received at the Madejski Stadium after introducing a passing game at Watford, something that kept the side in the division. However not replacing your best players is a theme that dominated Reading last year, and its set to have the same impact this season. Play-offs will be to far for them.

Scunthorpe United:- After reaching the play-off by the skin of their teeth Scunthorpe find themselves in a star studded Championship and are ready to showcase their attacking brand of football. Striking duo Gary Hooper and Paul Hayes are sure to cause the league some problems, and with most of the squad still intact Scunthorpe have a decent chance of survival. The flair of Grant McCann and Martin Woolford can also worry a few. Nigel Adkins will be keen to keep the club up this season after previous disappointments after the clubs first promotion. The summer has been quiet for them but the signing of Rob Jones at the back is a decent one.

Sheffield United:- A host of players have left in wake of their play-off final defeat as Kevin Blackwell started to offload the dead wood in the Blades squad. Grey Halford and Kyle McNaughton are the biggest loses, and with those departures, very little has appeared in terms of decent replacements. Kyle Walker has returned on loan from Tottenham after his move to North London, and Ched Evans has left Manchester City for the Steel City. Evans is seen as a vital component of United’s season, but he’s unproven in the Premiership after only occasionally appearances, so he might be undercooked coming into the new season. Rarely do beaten play-off final sides come back and repeat the trick the following season, and don’t expect the same from Kevin Blackwell’s men this season.

Sheffield Wednesday:- Brain Laws has been given ample time at Hillsborough and going into his fourth year in the job, but could be preparing for his toughest to date. For some time he’s be under financial restraints at Wednesday, but crucially for the team on the pitch Marcus Tudgay has been kept on. Many thought he would have to be sold to secure the club’s survival off the pitch but that hasn’t been the case. Darren Purse will help out the defence after his free transfer, and Darren Potter the former Liverpool youngster is another who will bolster the squad. Mid-table would yet again be respectable.

Swansea City:- The emergence of Swansea City’s passing game made many sit and watch all around the country last season. After finishing eighth the club were well set for the play-off push this season. The departure of Roberto Martinez has set expectations back ever so slightly however. The loss of Jason Scotland to Martinez’s new club Wigan is a further blow as well. Paulo Sousa has the task of renewing hope at the Liberty Stadium, but coming into the season without a proper replacement for Scotland is an error. Sousa shouldn’t be rated on his performance at QPR where he was given very little time, but at Swansea a club who have a history of appointing unproven managers he’s likely to get time to turn things around. Unlikely to finish as high as eighth in his first season, but a top half finish should be achievable.

Watford:- Hornets fans finally got what they wanted in the summer with the appointment of Malky Mackay after Brendon Rodgers departed to Reading. Mackay was the fans initial choice after Aidy Boothroyd was sacked, but after Rodgers’ attacking brand of football was introduced the supporters will be disappointed to see him go. Up till now the club have warned off offers for Tommy Smith, but have lost Tamas Priskin to Ipswich. Danny Graham should produce a few goals however in one of few moves made by Mackay in the summer. A relegation battle should ensue, but safety should be achieved.

West Bromich Albion:- Despite just a single season in football management Roberto Di Matteo’s appointment at the Hawthorns has prompted some fans and bookmakers to install the Midlands club as favourites for the Championship this season. Di Matteo took MK Dons to the play-offs only be overcome by Scunthorpe at the semi-final stage. Under Tony Mowbray you would have found it difficult to not back the Baggies for an instant return to the Premiership, but with Di Matteo now at the helm I’m not so sure. Simon Cox, Reuben Reid and possibly Jermaine Beckford are sure to score goals, but the commitment of Paul Robinson is a little suspect and if nothing else a blow to the back four. Robinson said he wouldn’t play for the club if they weren’t in the premiership, and has therefore moved to Bolton for a single year and hopes to re-join the Hawthorns side at the end of the season. Play-offs are make-able, but automatic promotion will take a special effort.

Promoted: Middlesbrough, Ipswich Town
Play-offs: Bristol City, Leicester City, West Bromich Albion, Derby County
Relegated: Blackpool, Plymouth Argyle, Doncaster Rovers

Top Scorer: Tamas Priskin

Coca Cola League One 2009/10 Season Preview

As I’m sure you’ve already heard, this year’s League One division has a group of some of the countries biggest clubs in one of the most open leagues to date.

Leeds United, Norwich City, Charlton Athletic and Southampton are just a few of the massive clubs fighting out for promotion and relegation this season, but it could be case that some of these huge names are left in the dust by some of the countries emerging sides.

Brentford:- Andy Scott wowed League Two last season after a convincing promotion. The 36-year-old built from the back last season, and with 20 clean sheets last season it’s obvious where there strength was. Alan Bennett has crucially stayed on from Reading, while the exciting Sam Saunders has been brought from Dagenham. Some excellent buys from Scott will only add to his swelling reputation. The squad is broader, and a second consecutive promotion isn’t out of the question at Griffen Park.

Brighton and Hove Albion:- With the great escape complete, Russell Slade can focus fully on the new season, and after a squad overhaul things are looking bright for the new year. Despite losing Lloyd Owusu the squad are in good shape, and is furthur improved with the introduction of Liam Dickinson. The real stars could end up being Gary Dicker however. Dicker was on loan at the back end of last season, and has joined permanently for this season. Slade seems to have improved the side’s team spirit amongst other things, and finishing high in the top half is a distinct possibility.

Bristol Rovers:- Constant improvement season upon season has raised hopes and expectations at the Memorial Stadium, and Paul Trollope has reason to consider this season could end in success. Having kept Ricky Lambert for yet another summer the side can start to believe, and with Jo Kuffour and Daryl Duffy still around Rovers aren’t short of firepower. It’s no coincidence that Trollope’s success has come courtesy of time at the position, and Nick Higgs’ trust in Trollope is refreshing to see in this day and age and the club could well be rewarded for such stability.

Carlisle United:- After disposing of John Ward, Carlisle stuttered to survival last season and after loosing a number of players including Danny Graham, the fulcrum of their goal threat, another relegation battle could be on the horizon. Greg Abbott saved the club after a short period last season and hopes that he can replicate that over an entire season are mixed. However Abbott had previous experience succeeding in short term roles, for the club to then offer him the job for the new season on top of last season seems rather naïve. A big struggle at Brunton Park this season.

Charlton Athletic:- It’s no coincidence that just over three years after Alan Curbishley left the club, that Charlton preside in the third tier of the football pyramid. Curbishley brought a certain stability as well as style to the club, and since his departure three managers have come and gone and two relegation's have been endured. Phil Parkinson, who took over last season, is the man with the job of taking the side back up to the Championship. The likes of Darren Ambrose and Nicky Weaver have left the club, while Miguel Angel Llera has signed on a free transfer in a surprise move. They were odds-on to return to the Premiership last season and with the current state of the club at this stage, don’t expect them to trouble the top six.

Colchester United:- The epitome of a mid-table club last season as the first season in their new stadium got in the way of their play-off push. Surprisingly enough the clubs away form was decent enough, but inconsistent performances at home-with just three wins before the New Year at the Weston Holmes Community stadium was their downfall. Injuries to Steve Gillespie last year puts him under pressure to perform after his big money move, but the signings of David Fox and Ben Williams indicate Paul Lambert is confident of a promotion push.

Exeter City:- Paul Tidsale is slowly becoming one of the football league’s hottest properties, and the link with the job at Swansea City in the summer is likely not to be last for the 36-year-old. Losing Dean Moxey and Matt Gill is a blow for the side for this season, and maybe even more alarmingly Tidsdale has failed to use the funds to improve the squad. Given the calibre of opposition the team will encounter this season further improvement seemed a necessity after last season’s promotion, but funds seemed to have been held back to try and secure the clubs immediate future-a shrewd move in these difficult times. More team spirit and togetherness is needed to get the club through the new season.

Gillingham:- Mark Stimson is back to League One with Gilligham, the league the club were in when he was appointed in 2007. He took the club down that season, only for last season’s promotion to set the record straight. Resources are at a minimum despite promotion, but a number of star players will thrive on the pressure of League One. None more so that Simeon Jackson. The Canadian was the spearhead of the clubs promotion campaign, but contributions by anyone else were in short supply; you worry for the side if he picked up an injury. The front man isn’t the only shining light in the side, with Andy Barcham making a name for himself on the wing, and after his new deal the Gills will be confident of staying in the division.

Hartlepool United:- After surviving relegation by the skin of their teeth Pool will be looking to banish any thought of another relegation battle. Former Director of Sport Chris Turner is at the helm, and after a number of previous play-off related finishes hopes are high he can help bring a repeat. The exciting partnership between Adam Boyd and James Brown should prove to be the difference between relegation and mid-table, and while most fans at Victoria Park will be praying for a play-off finish it might be a step too far for Turner this time.

Huddersfield Town:- Lee Clark’s appointment has brought some new ambition at Huddersfield, and with a number of new signings and after some impressive form at the back end of last season a proper promotion push can be planned. Anthony Kay is the biggest of those signings from Tranmere, and his performances will go a long way to seeing how well Clark can do in his first full season in management. Theo Robinson is another to look out for. A youngster at Watford, whose been on loan on a number of occasions at the likes of Hereford and Southend before finally being able to secure regular football at the Galpharm, where he’ll look to shine from day one.

Leeds United:- Last season it seemed difficult to see any side overcoming Leeds to win promotion but with the strongest squad they’ve had since they left the Premiership they fell at the play-off hurdle. This year onlookers will try to find excuses not to back Leeds again, but with Simon Grayson at the helm things do look good for the Yorkshire giants. The loss of Fabian Delph and possibly of Jermaine Beckford is worrying however. Beckford in particular had a handy knack of scoring to set up Leeds wins, and replacing him will be important to their promotion hopes. He scored over a third of the teams goals in the league last season, and despite his disciplinary problems he’s a big match winner.

Leyton Orient:- Martin Ling’s scandalous sacking so early in the season brought in Geriant Williams, formerly of Colchester, and Williams guided the side to survival after the signing of Scott McGleish. McGeish galvanised the team to safety, and more successful signings like that of the former Wycombe man has seen hopes grow in East London. Adrian Patulea has moved up from League Two to try and find the net for Orient, and his role could become vital with the side badly in need of a striker.

Millwall:- There’s always one side in each league that has to deal with play-off heartbreak, and this time it’s Kenny Jacket’s Millwall. Failure to overcome Scunthorpe in the play-off final must have been heartbreaking for a side that graced the top six for almost the entire season. Recovery from the disappointment will be important if they are to bounce back this season, because it’s beyond doubt the squad have the talent. Jason Price has signed permanently, and he’ll hope for more important goals like he delivered last season as will Nadjim Abdou, the scorer of ‘that’ goal at Elland Road. An impressive season awaits the Frenchman.

Milton Keynes Dons:- Paul Ince has returned with unfinished business at Stadium MK, and after his recent appointment he has some work to do to put his tinge back on the side. Roberto Di Matteo had brought in some astute signings that will help Ince, David McCracken for example has replace Miguel Angel Llera, but for me Jermaine Easter, Ince’s second signing since his return, could be the turning point in their season. Yes the player has issues of his own to sort out with his fitness amongst all else, but if he hits form Dons can assure themselves a place in at least the top six.

Norwich City:- The Canaries will be playing football outside England’s top two divisions for the first time for 50 years, and under manager Bryan Gunn the club are well set to make it just a one-year stay. Some decent signings have meant renewed hope around Carrow Road, and as for Gunn, who was unexpectedly kept on as boss, a second chance to set things right. League Two’s Player of the Year Grant Holt is expected much of, as is Matt Gill who arrives with a huge reputation from Exeter. The fans will be in demand for instant success, but it will be down to Gunn to deliver after a hefty transfer budget.

Oldham Athletic:- A well documented night at the dogs spelled the end for John Sheridan last season, and in the end to Oldham’s promotion ambitions after falling to eventually finish tenth. Dave Penney had excelled at Darlington under limited funds so is seen as the right man for the job here. Pawell Abbott and Rod Purdie have joined him from the League Two outfit, as well as eight more players to bolster the Oldham squad. Replacing Lee Hughes’s goals will be a problem if they are to finish in the top half, something that seems unlikely after the re-building job that Penny has started. Mid-table seems more probable.

Southampton:- It’s quiet possible that this time four weeks ago you would have been writing the Southampton Football Club obituary. Without an owner, a manager or any hope of even starting the season the talk of the clubs death would have been partially justified. However now the club have been taken over by a Swiss consortium, installed Alan Pardew as manager and now started building a squad for this season. The players were told in no uncertain terms that they could leave- so the side are without the likes of Bradley Wright-Philips and Andrew Surman, whose transfer fees alone have helped save the club up till now. A 10-point deduction won’t help matters, but in Pardew they have a credible man for the job. Promotion isn’t assured this season but a mid-table finish would keep the fans content for now.

Southend United:- Despite the small activity the club have done in the transfer market, spirits are high that Southend can push towards the top six this season. Steve Tilson last season worked masterfully with very little and finished eighth, an outstanding achievement, but as it always is-the fans are demanding more. Keeping Lee Sawyer for another year is crucial given his impact last year, but many will be bemoaning the loss of Peter Clarke. The club’s Player of the Season struck the equalizer in the FC Cup tie with Chelsea last season, but won’t be around to see the club try and emulate last season’s excellent finish.

Stockport County:- One of the worst season’s in memory took place at Boundary Park last season. Administration was the tip of iceberg, closely followed by finishing just a point above the relegation zone. Their early season exploits saw the team safe despite the late season struggle, but after selling the majority of their better player’s County could have darker times ahead. Greg Ablett has been gifted the poison chalice for this season, with most of his experience coming with Liverpool’s reserve side, hardly ideal for the pressure cooker of League One and a possible relegation struggle awaits.

Swindon Town:- Top scorer Simon Cox’s departure from the County Ground has raised a number of issues for Swindon’s survival this season, with the club just about keeping afloat due to the strikers goals. He produced 32 goals last season to keep the club up, and without him, despite the £2,000,000 win-fall, they don’t look in the best of shapes. Jonathan Douglas is a player of high class and the retention of Gordon Geer is important, given his influence at the back last season. Danny Wilson has a job on his hands this season, and with his littered success in management we might not see a whole lot of him this term.

Tranmere Rovers:- The John Barnes era has officially begun at Prenton Park, and with it comes a manager with some success in his previous jobs but at the club where players have been leaving left, right and centre. Despite some troubled periods he endured just two defeats while at Celtic, while remaining unbeaten as manager of Jamaica. Barnes likes to instil an organisational mindset in his teams, putting huge emphasis on getting the basics right. It’s a strong ethic to have, and at this level a decent one. Not sure how he’ll be able to repeat last season’s position of seventh, even with the impressive Luke Daniels between the sticks.

Walsall:- Chris Hutchings was never the best manager when money was available and big egos had to be managed. But at Walsall he has the opportunity to excel with his coaching style while money continues to be tight. The season won’t be helped by the loss of Jabo Ibehre, but Troy Deeney, a player who left his best form till after Hutchings appointment could be influential this season. Unlikely to be a season of major success, but the fans are sure to be happy with a similar mid-table finish.

Wycombe Wanderers:- You always have to worry about sides whose manner of promotion represents a tortoise crawling back to home. But in truth Peter Taylor’s boys made a right meal of their eventual promotion from League Two. They ended up losing to Notts County on the final day, only for Bury to fail to score enough goals to leapfrog them into third. That struggle and the loss of defensive rock and skipper David McCraken will add fuel to the fire that Wycombe might struggle this year, in spite of Michael Duberry being brought in as a replacement. Taylor doesn’t do long stays during his managerial career either, and in fact seeing him last the season would be a surprise. To see Wycombe stay up would be even more of one.

Yeovil Town:- Fans favourite Tony Skiverton was given the job last season after the departure of Russell Slade, after the cap-wearing manager accused the board of a distinct lack of funds being made available to him. Skivo took the side from mid-table into a relegation battle, and then to eventual safety with some late season wins after some shrewd loan signings, none more so than Jon Obika. Whether the player-manager can repeat the same sort of miracles over an entire season is hard to tell, and given that he’ll have plenty of time at the helm due to his status at the club, he has a real chance to motivate the club into another survival.

Promoted: Norwich City, Milton Keynes Dons
Play-offs: Leeds United, Millwall, Huddersfield Town, Bristol Rovers
Relegated: Carlisle United, Yeovil Town, Wycombe Wanderers, Stockport County

Top Scorer: Rickie Lambert

Coca Cola League Two 2009/10 Season Preview

Last season in League Two showed how pretty much no one can be written off at the beginning of the season.

Both Brentford and Exeter City defied the odds to earn automatic promotion last season, and its left to another side to take the league by storm this year.

With the financial pitfall of being relegated to non-league even greater than ever teams will been keen to avoid the drop, while long term League Two representatives Rochdale and Darlington will be among those who can’t wait to escape the league through automatic promotion.

Accrington Stanley:- A £300,000 tax debt hangs over the club’s head, and despite been given time to pay the debt a wage re-structure means they run on one of the countries smallest playing budgets. As for the team on the pitch then things aren’t much better with the loss of Kenny Arthur to Rochdale. A good start and end to the season saved them last term, but with no point deductions to save them and a depleted squad, John Coleman’s 10th year in charge at the Crown Ground could be a difficult one.

Aldershot Town:- Gary Waddock has forever been praised at Aldershot Town but after just four wins in 2009 after their great start things haven’t been smooth as of late. The loss of Scott Davies, the side’s top scorer last season is a big blow, as is that of Nikki Bull whose injury last season coincided with the Shots decline. Defensive based signings signal to a more sturdy Aldershot side this season, but will the loss of the aforementioned stars prove to be too much of a gap in the side?

Barnet:- A young side who struggled at the back end of Paul Fairclough’s tenure, but flourished under Ian Hendon towards the end of the season, to ease their relegation fears. Albert Adomah, if the club can keep hold of him, is sure to thrive this season after a number of superb displays last year. John O’Flynn is another who stared last season, and if the rest of the squad can mature for this season they could find the top half not before long. Yet again finances aren’t flowing through the club, but Hendon, a legend at Underhill is likely to get plenty of time, and the top half is not completely out of the equation.

AFC Bournemouth:- Eddie Howe, a former Bournemouth player guided the club to safety after their 17-point deduction, something that was a truly staggering achievement. Now on a clean slate the side have a real chance of a play-off birth, but no transfer activity has yet been allowed. Sammy Igoe is a real livewire in midfield, while Jason Pearce is a real talent at the back. Given that they haven’t lost any of their influential players they’ve got a real chance at promotion, with a great young manager who knows what it means to succeed at Dean Court.

Bradford City:- After being persuaded to stay on for another year, Stuart McCall must be on a last chance saloon at Valley Parade. But given that the side were fourth at March there is some encouragement for McCall. Simon Ramsden is a decent signing from Rochdale and along with the likes of Omar Daley the side a perfectly placed to bounce back from their late season disappointment. Fans are still turning out at Valley Parade and McCall has another chance to keep them happy.

Burton Albion:- After stumbling across the line last season, many would have feared for Burton in the new season. Paul Peschisolido has been installed as manager, and he’s gone to work quickly on the squad. Richard Walker is a good acquisition from Bristol Rovers as is Russel Penn from Kidderminster in a club record fee. Guy Branston will bring some steel to the back four, but loosing Saul Deeney and particularly Jake Buxton will hit the side hard.

Bury:- Penalty heartache against Shrewsbury will only motivate Alan Knill further for the new season and with a re-enforced strike-force the club look odds-on to get it right this time. Ryan Lowe and Danny Carlton can only add to Andys Bishop and Morrell’s goals, but the former might miss the beginning of the season after hernia surgery. The side had too many draws in the league last year and the added firepower might turn a few more of those draws into three points. Promotion candidates.

Cheltenham Town:- After a summer of raising funds for the club, Martin Allen has a hopeful season ahead. Around 23 players have come in and out at Whaddon Road this summer, none higher profile than that of Barry Hayles. Another striker Justin Richards has come up a division from Kidderminster and he knows where the goal is. However plenty of the pressure will be on Allen to re-invigorate his players and help them surge up the league after last season’s relegation. Cheltenham’s success hinders on Allen’s ability to keep the players spirits on a high.

Chesterfield:- Blew a play-off spot last season, but now with John Sheridan at the helm after an early summer appointment they have a better chance of holding on to potential promotion birth. The league’s most wanted Jack Lester is pivotal to their hopes and another 20-odd goals from him this season should see the clubs succeed in at least reaching the play-offs. Ian Breckin has come in from Forest to bolster the squad as well. Top seven certainties.

Crewe Alexandra:- No wins in their final 10 games saw them drop to League Two for this season, and after a summer of balancing the books the club can look forward to a league with minor financial and relegation worries. In terms of going down the team look pretty safe, and with Mathew Mitchell-King and Patrick Ada coming in from non-league Histon the side will have some added steel for the New Year. Play-offs are out of the question, but after last season’s disappointment the fans will warm to mid-table mediocrity.

Dagenham and Redbridge:- Another side who needed to succeed to keep their most prized assets, and after missing out on a nervy final day against Shrewsbury the likes of Sam Saunders and Ben Strevens have left for pastures new. John Still hasn’t been able to replace the duo with the sort of quality he’d like, with most of his signings coming from non-league. Even with Paul Benson up-front you have to think the side will struggle, not having Matt Ritchie for another season won’t help either.

Darlington:- With a takeover due to happen any day now the club’s future at least for this season can be confirmed, but with a small amount of players on the playing staff it’s not exactly rosy at Darlington. The likes of Neil Austin and Jason Kennedy have left the club, and without them being properly replaced you have to worry for Darlo. Colin Todd is equipped to get the team on the straight and narrow and back to the form they encountered before last season point deduction. Talisman Steve Foster will be crucial to the side’s attempt to stave off relegation.

Grimsby Town:- Not that many expect a miracle from Mike Newell last season, but the club rather stuttered to survival after his appointment last term. It was seen as a pretty decent choice for the job, but after taking 15 games to gain his first win the cub never hit much of an upturn. This season things look slightly better and after a squad overhaul the team looked well set for a decent stab at the league this year. Promotion is probably a step too far, but with the saviour of last season Barry Conlon still about anything’s possible.

Hereford United:- After an awful season last year, Graham Turner has handed the reins to John Trewick to try and mastermind another successful season in League Two. After utilising the loan market for many years under Turner, Trewick has brought in some permanent signings adding to their defence in the shape of Keith Lowe and Adam Bartlett, and strengthening the attack with Leon Constantine and don’t forget Kenny Lunt-their biggest coup of the summer. Yes they’ve had to let some players go but they can be happy with the summers work, and hopefully for them a mid-table finish.

Lincoln City:- After last season’s predictions the ‘P’ word is banned from Sincil bank right now. Peter Jackson seemed confident last year, and after a disappointing season the fans are once again disappointed. Jackson is sure to be under pressure for most of the season, and if a top seven place isn’t secured then his head could role. He’ll be less confident after the departure of Danny N’Guessan to Leicester, while Rene Howe has gone the other way this time from Peterborough, in a deal that could make or break the Imps season.

Macclesfield Town:- Keith Alexander has admitted already this season that things have been tighter than ever, and this could, in the end, be the undoing for the tracksuit loving boss. For years Alexander has thrived, and succeeded on a small budget but this year with players streaming out of the door the squad looks wafer thin. Jonny Brain is about the only hope the Silkman have this season, and he’ll be keeping a goal that is sure to be barraged this season.

Morecambe:- Consistency was the name of the game for Morecambe last season, and with a few subtle additions can look forward to an exciting season. Phil Jevons has to be looked upon as a sound loan signing. Sammy McIlroy will hope Jevons can fill in for Rene Howe effectively enough to force the side into the play-off picture. The team know a good start will be crucial, something they failed at last season and before not long we might be looking at the Shrimps in League One.

Northampton Town:- After a shock relegation last season the pressure has been heaped upon Stuart Gray for automatic success this time out. The fans have started to get restless, and after Gray was kept on for this season it’s important for his job that he starts well. John Curtis has been the only big money signing so far, Dean Beckwith and Paul Rodgers will add to the defensive unit while Steve Guinan is around to find the goals especially with the fitness concerns surrounding Adebayo Akinfenwa, whose ability to complete a training session is a far cry from his success in-front of goal. Key to the Cobblers success you have to think.

Notts County:- Where do you start? After season upon season of mid-table finishes a middle-eastern takeover and the appointment of Sven Goran Eriksson as Director of Football has turned the tide of ambition at Meadow Lane. Despite constant struggles the new owners are assuring fans instant success and a place in the big-time within five years. Karl Hawley, Lee Hughes, Ricky Ravenhill and Ben Davies have all signed as a signal of intent, but it might take more than just flashing some money around to get what they want. Ian McParland is still around to try and achieve this dream, expect him to be ousted by Christmas at the latest.

Port Vale:- Micky Adams seem to be on his last legs as a football manager. After failures throughout the football league, he lands at Vale Park hoping to revive a club whose fans are in manic depression after last season dismal displays. Adams has got his work cut out to change the team’s fortunes around. Geoff Horsfield has come into attempt to bring experience to the forward line as well as the back-room staff. Tommy Fraiser, another new signing, has been given the captain’s armband. A move that shows the rather disjointed feel the squad have at the moment. Will struggle to emerge from the bottom third.

Rochdale:- Two play-off heartbreaks in a row is sure to revitalize a squad into another promotion push, and with quality on view Spotland its hard to think of a reason why they won’t succeed. Their front line is quite breathtaking, with Chris Dagnall, Adam Le Fondre, Will Buckley and Adam Rundle regularly finding the net, and now with Jason Kennedy behind them to give them some support in the middle of the part. Kenny Arthur finishes off a fine team that Keith Hill has put together, surely a season success for the 40-year old.

Rotherham United:- The Millers have been splashing the cash this summer, and with a young ambitious manager at the helm you have to think they can build upon a season crippled by a point deduction. Without it the club would have finished 5th, and now with money to spend Mark Robins is building a side for promotion. The loss of Reubin Reid won’t disappoint too many Millers fans, especially with the signing of Kevin Ellison and Nicky Law, players who could spark a top three push.

Shrewsbury Town:- After scrapping into the play-offs last season after an awful away record the side failed to capitalise on their good fortune and achieve promotion, and with it went their brightest stars. Grant Holt was sold to Norwich for nearly half a million pounds, as was Ben Davies to Notts County. With the core of the side gone, Paul Simpson has a hell of the job on his hands, and with play-off hangovers always a burden it’s a difficult season ahead. Jake Robinson might make it an easier one with his electric pace.

Torquay United:- Unlike fellow promoted side Burton, the Gulls come into the season full of confidence and momentum. Headed by Paul Buckle, Torquay will be keen to repeat what their neighbours, Exeter City, did last season, and stranger things have happened. A good mix of experience with Chris Hargreaves in the middle of the park, with the likes of Elliot Benyon and Mark Ellis give the Plainmoor side a decent shot. Plenty relies on how much the 37-year-old Hargreaves can play this season, given how much the side feed off his endeavour.

Promoted: Rotherham United, Rochdale, Chesterfield
Play-offs: Bury, Bradford City, Notts County, Morecambe
Relegated: Aldershot Town, Macclesfield Town

Top Scorer: Jack Lester

Blue Square Premier 2009/10 Season Preview

This summer in the Blue Square Premier has been one of the most controversial and eventful periods the league has endured for some years.

What with the break-up of Setanta Sports, clubs on the market for £1, and managers leaving after over a week in charge, the season can’t start soon enough for some.

Others might need a bit long to gather in further transfer targets, find a new manager or just to be entered in the league altogether.

Here’s a brief, but insightful look into the 24 sides battling it out for the football league this season.

AFC Wimbledon:- Terry Brown is trying to write a new chapter in Wimbledon’s history by inserting them back in the football league. With all the controversies surrounding the rest of the league the club are quietly going about their business, but with Jon Main up top they might be making more of a noise than expected this season.

Altrincham:- One of the overachievers last season, but as part time side’s go they’ve put up a hell of a fight. Looked doomed the season before last, now look towards Colin Little, who’s scored over 100 goals for the club, for inspiration. Contributions from elsewhere need to come thick and fast if the Robins have any ambitions of the top half.

Barrow:- Tough times? No such thing at Barrow after lasts season FA Cup heroics. An increased budget has meant increased expectations. The signing of experienced defender Phil Bolland is somewhat of a coup, ahead of a season that is sure to bring slightly more achievement.

Cambridge United:- After the eventual departure of Gary Brabin, and then the attempt to re-sign him as manager, Martin Ling was installed as the new boss. Despite not being able to tempt Scott Rendell for another season, the future looked bright for Cambridge. Reports on Tuesday are suggesting Ling has stepped down after just eight days in charge, and even if things are resolved there are troubled times at the Abbey Stadium.

Chester City:- Details surrounding their owner Stephen Vaughan, and his previous misgivings has forced the FA not to grant the club an affiliation for this new season and therefore are far from guaranteed to play in the BSP. Add to that a 10-point penalty for wherever they land, the loss of Mark Wright as manager and investigations by the HM revenue. All this before the season has even begun. Dire times ahead.

Crawley Town:- All change in the playing staff for Crawley this season, and the host of high-profile signings are sure to boost their play-off ambition. Points deductions have halted them in the past, but if they are avoidable this season you can’t help but think they’ll be competing with the big boys. Jefferson Louis, one of the leagues hottest properties is around to add to their goal threat.

Eastbourne Borough:- Another club who punched above their weight last season, and who will struggle to meet the demands of a cash strapped summer. The break up of Setanta hit every club in the league, but with Eastbourne’s structure fitted tightly around the deal, plenty of work has been done to secure the clubs future. Four wins out of seven in pre-season has raised hopes again, the signing of Jamie Taylor might just keep them in this league for another year.

Ebbsfleet United:- We could go on for hours about the clubs absurd business model, but at the end of the day it could see the club in real trouble if more subscribers aren’t found. Michael Gash has gone to York while Liam Daish had to contend with trialists for the new season after the owners released minimal funds. The punt saw them slip down the league even further last season, and the manager become increasingly frustrated, the system is doomed to fail.

Forest Green Rovers:- Two cups runs almost saw the club relegated last season, but a late season surge the goals of Andy Mangan saw them survive. He will miss most of the season after a betting scandal, and while the Chairman has called for players to chip in from midfield, without the controversial striker things look a little bleak. Jim Harvey’s future looks just as hazy as well, with the manager set to take legal action over his club before the side’s first league game.

Gateshead:- Bringing some joy to the North-east with promotion lasts season, but after losing top scorer Lee Novak early in the summer it already looks a bit gloomy for Gateshead. Michael McKay has come in to try and replace the front man, along with former Geordie Martin Britain. Big names such as these are sure to tempt more fans to their 12,000 capacity stadium-but to help them stave off relegation? Well that’s another thing entirely.

Grays Athletic:- It’s been all change at Grays this summer, with the new manager at the end of last season, has now come a new chairman in John Moncur, new players after a budget cut, and a three year plan put in place that could see the club in the football league. Craig Edwards has his first full season ahead of him and has brought in Crystal Palace youngster Jerson Dos Santos, a man whose proven at non-league with Sutton United.

Hayes and Yeading:- After their thrilling play-off victory last season, much is expected of this entertaining Hayes side. Church Road has seen a fair few ins and outs, and the young backroom staff headed by manager Garry Haylock will have a tough job to keep things ship shape. Looking for a star man? Look no further than Staforde Palmer, bags of pace and an eye for goal, scored 15 goals last season and was the cornerstone of their success.

Histon:- Success was necessary if Histon were to keep hold of their best players, and predictably enough they’ve have had to wilt to their players ambition, and inevitably the pull of a greater wage packet. In spite of their cup run not much money is available for Steve Fallon, and in truth the departures haven’t been properly replaced, another victim of Setanta’s break-up on the face of it. Difficult season ahead, would be an even bigger shock than last season if they could finish in the play-offs.

Kettering Town:- Fell away when it mattered last season after a prolonged stay in the play-offs, and with Mark Cooper, whose is sure to be subject of a second advance from Cambridge they are in good condition to challenge again. The signings of Ian Roper and Francis Green suggest they want some football league experience so to avoid a similar fade away as last season. Dark horses again this season.

Kidderminster Harriers:- After an excellent season the side have gone and offloaded several of their big names, including the spine of the side with Russ Penn and Mark Creighton also departing. It’s been crippling for Kidderminster and they’re set struggle this season, even with Lee Fowler joining from Forest Green. No one will envy Mark Yates’ job right now and to finish in the top half will be ambitious to say the least.

Luton Town:- Town can look upon this season will great gusto, after keeping the majority of their squad from last season, including starlet Tom Craddock, Mick Harford will set his sights on the football league once again. Harford’s experience at turning clubs around has proved uncanny in the past in a number of caretaker roles, and despite not having a promotion to his name this can be the perfect league to buck that trend. Darlington pair Liam Hatch and Alan White will add some steel to the hatters for this season and they look well placed to bounce straight back.

Mansfield Town:- After over a year of financial problems the stags can now look forward to a promotion push, and with one of the best young managers in non-league David Holdsworth, they’ve got the resources to mount a serious challenge. Pre-season has gone well with a win and a draw over Walsall and Leicester. Kyle Nix could prove to be a worthwhile signing, and the final piece of the Mansfield jigsaw. Expect them to be hovering around the playoffs come May.

Oxford United:- When you combine managerial quality, with financial infrastructure your sure to have a good chance, and for Chris Wilder at Oxford he’s got all the resources to finally end the U’s non-league nightmare. The former Halifax man seems like the right man for the job, and after a number of high profile signings the team looks odds on to hit the ground running this season. Missed out on the play-offs courtesy of their five-point deduction last term, expect not even a points deduction to deny them this time.

Rushdan and Diamonds:- Justin Edinburgh started to struggle at the back end of last season, with just four wins from the final 13 games and a restricting budget this summer may leave Diamonds in a bit of bother. Cliff Akurang and Max Porter have come in from Barnet-but any chances of a promotion push are far of the mark-expect the former Spurs man to battling for his job come the end of the season.

Salisbury City:- There are always problems when your club are on the market, but when it’s for just £1 you have to wonder. Amazingly Matt Tubs has stuck around for the fight, and he’s one of the finer players in this league-and as you can tell one of the more committed. They might have topped the league early on last season, but they lay in the relegation battle for most of the season, anticipate more of the same this season. That’s if they make it that far.

Stevenage Borough:- In a list of things to expect from any football season, Stevenage to attempt another promotion from the BSP is always up their, with expectation always sky-high. To be fair to the fans some of that has dipped after the sale of Steve Morrison, but Charlie Griffen his replacement from Salisbury is no mug, even if he is no direct replacement for the former striker. The basis of a good squad, and in Graeme Westley they do have a capable manager- it seems that the expectation is sometimes too much of a burden.

Tamworth:- Gary Mills has done a terrific job at Tamworth over the last two years, but keeping his side in the Conference after their promotion last season might be a step too far. He took them down from this league when he took over, some would say they were gone before he joined, but now he’s got a full season to keep the side up. They’ve lost their shining lights of last season Gareth Shedon and Martin Foster, something that makes the task a whole lot more challenging, but it’s one Mills is sure to relish.

Wrexham:- Yet another side who have made major cut backs this summer, and could suffer for it. Both Richards and Louis are gone, and with it possibly their promotion ambition. Were unfortunate with postponed fixtures last season and backlog proved too much for the squad to bare. Dean Saunders, who’s sure to be fast-tracked for the Wales position next summer might only have a single season to provide promotion. Seems unlikely it will be enough for the former Derby striker.

York City:- A cup final appearance in his first season was the dream start to Martin Foyle’s tenure at York, but now he needs to improve the teams league form as the perennial underachievers seek to use last season’s success as a catalyst for the new season. Michael Gash has been recruited from Ebbsfleet in a shrewd move, but Djoumin Sangare isn’t quiet what the fans might be after at Kitkit crescent. Promotion seems a long shot as well.


Champions: Oxford United
Play-offs: Crawley Town, Luton Town, Grays Athletic, AFC Wimbledon
Relegated: Salisbury City, Ebbsfleet United, Tamworth, Gateshead

Top Scorer: Tom Craddock