Fulham have been dealt a massive blow following news that striker Bobby Zamora will be out of action for up to 5 months due to a broken leg suffered in last weekend’s 2-1 victory over Wolves. Further tests have revealed that Zamora has sustained ankle ligament damage along with a broken fibula. Doctors have performed surgery on Zamora’s injured leg and he looks set for lengthy spell in the Fulham treatment room.
The news comes as a blow to both player and team. Zamora was a key player for Fulham last season, scoring 19 goals for the Cottagers in all competitions in their run to the Europa League final. He had just won his first England cap only last month in a friendly victory against Hungary and looked a certainty to be called up for Fabio Capello’s next England squad to face Montenegro in October.
Zamora’s absence leaves Fulham boss Mark Hughes will limited options upfront. Andy Johnson has been a long-term absentee for Fulham and is still a few weeks from full fitness and Hughes will not rush the return of Johnson to compensate for Zamora’s loss.
This means Hughes will have to rely on new signing Moussa Dembele to lead Fulham’s line. He has made an impressive start to his first season in the Premier League and Hughes will be calling on the Belgian to continue his good form in the coming weeks.
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The Italian Football FanCast is the podcast for fans of Serie A and Calcio.
The Azzurri were in action against The Faroe Islands in midweek and put in a good performance as they dismantled the minnows 5-0, thanks to a superlative display from Antonio Cassano. The result means a perfect start for Cesare Prandelli’s men in their quest for Euro 2012 qualification.
Elsewhere, AC Milan have moved ahead of rivals Inter in the wage bill stakes but the champions are looking to get one over on them by signing a former Milan idol. AS Roma may also have a new owner soon, plus find out about all the latest transfer news from in and around the peninsula.
As Ever we are joined by Kris Voakes and Dave is back with Legends of Calcio, who this week is the mercurial Michael Laudrup.
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Recently Arsenal FC posted record pre-tax profits of $88 million. In this current climate, you have to give it to the men upstairs at Arsenal. They’ve made a significant profit whilst one of their closest rivals, Liverpool have found themselves wedged in one of the biggest money related debacles in football history.
This said one thing that really stumps me as a neutral, is the air of content I get from the Arsenal fans who seem satisfied with their club even though they have not won a major trophy in 5 years. For me, supporting a club who proclaim to be a major player in world football being trophyless since 2005 would not sit well. Yet, the fans still turn up; I think I know why though.
There’s no doubt that Arsene’s men play attractive football. When on top of their game their technique, movement and quick inter changing passing is mesmerising. When all singing from the same hymn sheet I think it is fair to say that they are one, if not the best footballing side this country has to offer. Yet, the fans still turn up even though the trophy cabinet remains empty and collects dust as every trophyless day passes.
I’m then further stumped when I hear that Wenger believes he “would not be doing his job if Arsenal made a financial deficit.” Have the last 5 seasons without a trophy satisfied Wenger, Surely not! I am knowhere near reassured to then hear Wenger saying “I am quite proud that I work in a company that is in a strong financial situation. I have always worked in clubs which make money and I would not feel that I do my job well if we lost money at the end of the season.” Is success not the primary aim for a competing sports team?
Finally, my uncertainty is confirmed when I read an article from the back end of last season. Written and published by a respectable newspaper it states that “Arsene Wenger maintains Arsenal went beyond expectation, despite another season at the Emirates Stadium Which promised so much ending without silverware.” Since when did finishing third seem like something to write home about? Maybe Arsene Wenger and the fans are happy to be 2nd…sorry 3rd best.
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Perhaps Arsenal are just thinking that whilst the big three, Manchester United, Chelsea and currently Manchester City will splash the cash and play a dangerous game, they might just sit tight and trophies will follow. A dangerous game to play if you ask me.
After lurching from one crisis to another over the last few months Liverpool appear to have returned to some semblance of normality this week with two important wins for both their domestic and European aspirations.
Wins against Bolton and Napoli would be the bare minimum in previous seasons, but after the desperate run of results that had left the Reds locked in the Premier League basement, Steven Gerrard’s late hat-trick against the Italians and Maxi Rodriguez’s last gasp winner in the league put a more positive spin on Roy Hodgson’s start at Anfield.
On the blog front much has been made of Liverpool’s behind the scenes management changes. Roy Hodgson may claim to be comfortable with the continental approach reflected by Damien Comolli’s appointment as Director of Football, but what will this mean for the Reds in the long term? There is also analysis of the fallout from the end of the Hicks and Gillett era and Roy Hodgson’s bizarre spat with former manager Rafa Benitez.
We also cover the best of the web’s articles on the Anfield club.
Featured articles of the week
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The Premier League’s New Comic Strip #2
Spurs, Liverpool, United…whose need for Real Madrid swoop is greater?
Did Broughton miss a trick in safeguarding Liverpool’s future?
Should Liverpool fans look upon Comolli’s appointment with trepidation?
Controlled ruthlessness in football
An important FACT that is lost on most Premier League players
The FIVE ‘realistic’ transfer targets for Liverpool to ponder
Liverpool’s Stadium Dilemma
Will transfer deals meet expectations at Liverpool?
The ten most heated matches in England
Liverpool’s transfer policy could have a knock on effect
Ten things we have noticed from the Premier League this season
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Click here to see the Best LIVERPOOL BLOGS around the Web this week
Best of the Web
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Damien Comolli: A view from a Spurs fan – Live4Liverpool
Nice move NESV, Bad move Roy – Kopblog
Soto Kyrgiakos: Liverpool’s Unlikely Hero – This is Anfield
Red hails Young Starlet’s “Unbelievable Skills.” – Live4Liverpool
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is ready to throw John Mensah into his team for this weekend's Premier League clash at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Ghanaian has just recovered from a dislocated shoulder but, with regulars Michael Turner and Titus Bramble picking up injuries, Bruce believes the risk may have to be taken.
"It would be a big gamble. It's a gamble but, with his ability, if he can do it, I am prepared to make that gamble," he said.
"He trained today with it – in pain, I have to say – but he wants to try to give it a go, so a lot will depend on him.
"It's typical of him, he comes in and wants to train, which is probably three weeks quicker than he should be.
"But he wants to give it a go, so let's hope the specialists are right. They don't think by him training on it he can do any more damage, that's the most important thing.
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"But it is sore, as you can imagine. John trained this morning and came through it and if he comes through tomorrow, then it will be his call."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email
No manager has been caught up more in club v country rows than Arsene Wenger of late, and a new battle is set to erupt as the England U21s look set to name their strongest squad possible and call up Jack Wilshere for the tournament in Denmark. The Arsenal boss knows the implications of these tournaments, given that he lost Theo Walcott for a large part of the season as a result of the player’s desire to represent his country.
In the papers this morning there has been a mixed bag of stories that includes Taylor hinting at Newcastle stay; Usmanov set to fail in Arsenal bid, while Warnock is set to head the list of player exits at Villa Park.
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Taylor hints at Newcastle stay – Sky Sports
Chris: I’ll quit over Sam axe – Sun
United sale ‘a long way down line’ – Daily Telegraph
Wilshere caught up in club v country row after Under 21 call riles Wenger – Daily Mail
Manchester United hope to pip Chelsea and City to Pepe – IM Scouting
David Dein ‘set to be named FA chairman’- Mirror
Warnock may head list of player exits – Guardian
Brooking’s 2018 vision – Daily Telegraph
Malouda tells Chelsea defenders to up their game – Daily Mail
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Platini on brink of second term at Uefa – Guardian
Balotelli: only Messi better than me – Daily Telegraph
Usmanov’s Arsenal bid looks set to fail – Guardian
Yesterday I wrote an article on three players Arsene Wenger should consider signing this winter, this one is simply the opposite – which three should be on their way out?
Arsenal do have a number of players within their squad, who are injury-prone, inconsistent, or just plain garbage. I posted a weekly poll on my site to see who the visitors think should leave this winter. There were 10 possible candidates (not implying that we need to sell all of them) on the list in which voters could select between one or all ten players, and surprisingly the results matched the three players that I think should be walking out of the Emirates this January. The players listed in this article were in my mind prior to the poll going up (I swear). Anyway, I await the barrage of horrible messages and abuse from the readers, here is my list:
Manuel Almunia
Do I really need to explain why he has to go? I think the nickname ‘Manure’ (given to him by the Arsenal fans) says it all really. The 33-year-old is not Arsenal material (never has been) and has not featured for the club since late September, and appears to be out of the Arsenal picture for Wenger and the fans. He has made countless mistakes last season and a few this one (when he’s played of course) and quite clearly Wenger has run out of patience with him. As a result, Lukasz Fabianski and even youngster Wojciech Szczesny have leapt ahead of Almunia in the pecking order. Simply put, Almunia is not what you would call a reliable set of hands between the posts and has dropped to third choice goalkeeper very rapidly. We have two better goalkeepers in our ranks and because of this the Spaniard should be sold this winter…even if it’s for a small fee.
Denilson
The 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder has shown that he is not capable of performing at the highest level and here are my reasons for saying this. When in possession of the ball, he seems to have a liking of looking back instead of forward. I will admit his distribution of the ball is exceptional and the Brazilian has been known to belt in a few goals for the Gunners. However, he is a very inconsistent performer, and has a very poor reading of the game in general. His defensive attributes are abysmal and has shown he is unable to keep up with the pace of the game at times. On several occasions this season Denilson has looked very flat-footed and has lost possession of the ball very cheaply (have a look at the games he has played in so far, and you will get what I’m saying). We have better options available, and with the introduction of Jack Wilshere, who has impressed, Denilson’s chances have been damaged even further. Many fans may believe that he is capable of cementing a place in the Arsenal line-up. However, after witnessing recent events it’s about time the player looked for another club…of course this is just my opinion.
Nicklas Bendtner
It was either him or Carlos Vela, but I believe the Mexican has more to offer than the Dane. Nicklas Bendtner claims to be the next best thing since sliced bread, when quite frankly he isn’t. The 22-year-old has demanded more regular starts as he feels he deserves a place in the Arsenal starting XI, but with poor and inconsistent performances the Danish international deserves to be shown the exit doors at the Emirates. I’m not saying the guy is useless, because he does have some good attributes, but the truth is he is not lethal enough. As well as that, Bendtner has to somehow try and get ahead of Marouane Chamakh who is on form and Robin Van Persie, who is looking sharp on his return from injury…its not going to happen is it? Wenger, sell him to one of the clubs who are interested in him, make a profit and then spend it on a much more valuable asset in the near future.
Voters were allowed to tick all ten players if they wanted to, hence the confusing percentages you are about to see. At the time of writing this there were a total of 45 voters (yeah, I know it’s not a lot) who took part in the poll. Results showed that there were 38 ticks for Manuel Almunia who topped the list with 84%, Nicklas Bendtner was second with 29 ticks (64%) and Denilson came in third place with 25 ticks (56%). If you would like to see the full table of results, check out the site Gunnersphere.com.
Read more Arsenal blogs at the excellent Gunnersphere website
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2010 has been a mixed year for Manchester United. At the turn of the year, Manchester United looked favorites for the Premier League title, but Chelsea’s win at Old Trafford in April effectively sealed the title for the West London club. By the end of 2010 Manchester United remain unbeaten in the league since that game and are top of the table. However, there are still question marks being raised against Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, and who would bet against Ferguson proving everybody wrong again. Here at Football Fan Cast, we have put together 10 things that 2010 has taught us about Manchester United. Read, enjoy and join in the debate below.
Strength of character
This Manchester United squad may not have the same quality of a few years ago, but the spirit and character of the players can’t be called into question. Time after time in 2010, Manchester United have taken knocks but have managed to stand up to them. A classic example was the comeback at Villa Park in November. It took a lot for United to come back that day, seasons hinge on moments like that. By May, that could be the most important point of the season for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.
Nemanja Vidic has been captain marvel
It was a very brave decision from Sir Alex Ferguson to drop both Gary Neville and Rio Ferdiand in place of Nemanja Vidic as Manchester United captain, but what an extremely wise decision it has been. Vidic has been superb all season; playing with a new responsibility that has improved his game – if that was possible. The United captain has been a rock at the heart of the defence so far this season, and Manchester United fans are starting to witness the passion the Serb has for Manchester United.
Rafael looks set to be a Manchester right back for years to come
The development of young Rafael Da Silva has been a testament to the Manchester United coaching system and Sir Alex Ferguson’s man management skills. The young defender could easily have blamed himself for Manchester United’s quarter final exit of the 2009/2010 Champions League, but he got back up and has played himself back into the squad. However, he has done more than that. He has been an ever present this season, he has developed going forward and is a much better defender now. The Brazilian has allowed Manchester United to have a solid back five for most of the season – a key reason why Manchester United have remained undefeated this season.
Nani is ready to be a world beater
Finally the penny has dropped with Nani. The Portuguese winger is a fantastic talent and is now starting to show his worth to the Manchester United team. He is without doubt their best chance of winning the Premier League this season, if his form continues, Manchester United may have also have European success. Nani has added both goals and assists to his game this season, no longer is he the frustrating winger who can’t cross the ball. It is good to see Nani pulling out of the shadow of Cristiano Ronaldo.
What is the point of Dimitar Berbatov?
The man for the…. small occasion. Why pay a club £30m for a player that is not trusted to play in the big games of a season. Dimitar Berbatov’s form this season has been excellent, but who has he scored his goals against? The vast majority have been netted against teams in the bottom half of the table. His performance’s against Manchester City and Aston Villa were diabolical, and if he hasn’t the drive to play well in these games, what is the point in having him? Coming off the back of goalscoring form, Sir Alex Ferguson picked Wayne Rooney ahead of Berbatov for the clash with Arsenal. No doubt he will do this when Chelsea and Manchester City come to Old Trafford.
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Continued on Page TWO
Manchester United have lost the fear factor
Having thrown away points against Fulham, Everton, Bolton and West Brom in the Premier League and Rangers in the Champions League are clubs now finding it easier to play against Manchester United. In all of these games, the defensive unit has looked fragile (not the back four but the whole team) and Manchester United could have had the title sown up by now. The reality is the Manchester United squad isn’t as good as it once was, and Wayne Rooney was not in any form during these games. Maybe with Rooney on form, teams will be less inclined to attack Manchester United?
Manchester United MUST replace Edwin van der Sar with a top quality goalkeeper
Over the past year, Thomas Kuszczak has proven himself incapable of holding down the Manchester United’s number one jersey. The Pole is a decwent under study but no way should Sir Alex Ferguson install him as van der Sar’s replacement. He looks nervous playing in front of huge crowds, and very suspect when dealing with crosses. Manchester United need to invest in a top quality goalkeeper if they are to have a smooth transition after van der Sar.
Champions League success is not beyond this squad
If Manchester United had held on against Bayern Munich who knows what could have happened. They would have had a relatively easy semi final against Lyon and would have been expected to challenge in a third Champions League final in a row. However, it didn’t happen, but this squad is not a million miles away from another final. The squad knows how to win away European matches, something that is vital. Old Trafford is still on the the hardest places to come and get a victory so added together there is no reason why Manchester United will not challenge in 2011.
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Manchester United need Wayne Rooney to fire
Manchester United have got away with Wayne Rooney’s form being off during the first part of the 2010 season but it can’t happen again if Manchester United are to challenge for success in 2011. All through 2010, we were waiting for the goals to dry up for Rooney, and until that Champions League clash with Bayern Munich it didn’t look like they would dry up. Manchester United need Rooney to fire if they are to be successful on all fronts. They do not have a striker that can score in the biggest of games and Rooney’s all round play scares the life out of defenders. 2010 was a mixed year for Rooney and Manchester United – if Rooney hadn’t got injured in Munich who knows how successful 2010 could have been.
Antonio Valencia is the most underrated player in the Premier League
Look what happens when Wayne Rooney finds a team mate who can consistently put a ball on his head – he scores ten headed goals. Valencia is by no means a one trick pony. He has blistering pace, trickery as well as all the skills of a combative central midfielder. Valencia came to Manchester United as a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo and it took time for Manchester United fans to see what Valencia was about. However, he has is growing into a real star for Manchester United, and his return in 2011 will no doubt please Manchester United fans, Sir Alex Ferguson and Wayne Rooney.
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Brisbane Roar moved one step closer to securing the A-League Premier’s Plate after a 2-1 win over Melbourne Heart on Saturday.
The Roar could have wrapped up the minor premiership if it were not for Adelaide’s 2-1 home loss against the Central Coast Mariners, also on Saturday, but Ange Postecoglou’s side will finish the season on top if the Mariners fail to beat the Melbourne Heart on Friday.
Even if the Mariners do win in Melbourne, all the Roar will need is a point from their clash with North Queensland on February 5 to finish the season atop the table, while Saturday’s win has already secured their spot in the 2012/2013 Asian Champions League.
The records keep coming for Postecoglou’s all-conquering side, as the Roar extended their unbeaten record to 23 matches, breaking a domestic football record in Australia set in 1987 by APIA Leichhardt.
Brisbane’s attempt to break the record started brilliantly when Costa Rican under-20 international Jean Carlos Solorzano notched his 11th strike of the season after just five minutes.
Solorzano’s pace took him away from Heart captain Simon Colosimo before he delivered a quality finish which takes him to second on the league’s scoring charts, equal with Central Coast’s Matt Simon on 11.
In-form James Meyer gave the Roar a two-goal advantage after 63 minutes with his fourth goal in three games in his first A-League start for the club and despite Gerald Sibon’s 75th minute consolation, Brisbane hung on for all three points.
In the day’s other matches, the Central Coast Mariners all but secured second spot on the table with a 2-1 away win at Adelaide United.
A sensational first-half set up the victory, with Patricio Perez and Joshua Rose getting on the scoresheet as the Mariners put on a clinic.
Travis Dodd gave Adelaide a late chance of an unlikely draw with his injury time equaliser, but the Mariners claimed a well-deserved three points.
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Sydney FC kept their fledgling finals hopes alive with a 2-0 away win against the Perth Glory, set up by goals to Nick Carle and Bruno Cazarine.
The win gives Sydney FC, the reigning champion, a chance of making the finals with the Sky Blues ninth on the A-League table, just four points behind the sixth-placed Melbourne Heart.
With the top six featuring in the finals, Sydney will be hoping to make use of their game in hand on the Heart and continue their unbeaten run in 2011.
Sir Alex Ferguson lamented some poor defending from set pieces on Saturday as his side’s 2-1 loss to Wolves ended a 29-game unbeaten streak.
Wolves responded well after going a goal down to a Nani strike early on, and goals from George Elokobi and Kevin Doyle handed them a memorable victory, although they remain at the bottom of the English Premier League on goal difference.
Ferguson said that while he was disappointed to see his men suffer their first league loss of the season, he was proud of the way his side had been playing.
“I’m disappointed obviously, it’s been a long run for us,” Ferguson told ESPN.
“The players have done us all proud; we can be pleased with that part, but today in the second half we didn’t really get going.”
“The consistency that we’ve shown over the past two months has been terrific so today was a big disappointment.”
“I’ve said that before the game, and it stands strong again after the game. They are a handful on set-pieces as they proved today, and it’s cost us the game.”
Ferguson also revealed that central defender Rio Ferguson had strained a calf during the warm-up for the game and will be sidelined for ‘a couple of weeks’.
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy, meanwhile, was delighted to have picked up three points and is hoping to use the shock result as a springboard to lift his side out of the drop zone, targeting greater consistency in the final third of the season.
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“We are in this position because whilst we have beaten some of the top teams, we have been bobbins against those around us. West Ham, Wigan, Blackpool – they have all taken points from us,” McCarthy said.
“It is all right lounging around and basking in the sunny day of beating Manchester United, we have to do it against other teams and do damage to them to make sure we preserve our Premier League status.”