Premier League 2013/14 season guide: Part 5

In our final part of our season guide we take a look at Swansea City, Tottenham Hotspur West Brom and West Ham. Plus our predicted league table.

Swansea City:
After a fantastic first season in the Premier League, Swansea City followed it up with another great effort in their second season as a top flight club. Having lost Brendan Rodgers to Liverpool, Michael Laudrup was brought in as his replacement and what an impact the Dane had. Having not only finished ninth in the league, the Welsh club were crowned Capital One Cup winners beating Bradford City 5-0 at Wembley last February. The victory also saw the Swans entered into Europe and the Europa League where they are currently one round away from the group stages. The signing of Michu was an instant success with the Spanish forward netting 18 league goals in his first season in England. Laudrup has made number of signings already this summer bring in Ivorian striker Wilfried Bony, who scored 37 goals in 36 games last season. He is expected to play a key role this season linking up with Michu. As well as Bony, Jose Canas has also moved to the Liberty Stadium from Real Betis, and the midfielder has been joined by Jonjo Shelvey who moved from Liverpool.

Swansea's poor run near the end of last season saw them only win two from eleven games, which came after their Wembley triumph. This will have been a case for concern for Laudrup, whose side had been hovering around the Europa League positions up until the poor end of season run. Another mid table finish could be expected for the Swans who will be playing twice a week on a regular occasion if they are to progress in Europe. They have a tough start to the campaign as they host Manchester United on the opening day, and go on to play Spurs, Liverpool and Arsenal in their opening six games.

Key Player: Michu

Predicted finish: 7th

Tottenham Hotspur:

picture: soccerlens.com

For the second season in a row, Spurs were denied a Champions League place thanks to another team in London. Last season saw Chelsea pinch the fourth place, whilst the end of this season saw Spurs' North London rivals Arsenal take the final place. New boss AVB will still be pleased with the progress made in his first season, and will feel a lot better with his work after suffering an awful time in his short time at Chelsea. The form of Gareth Bale was simply brilliant with the Player of the Year now rumoured to be close to joining Spanish giants Real Madrid. It is absolutely key for Spurs to hold onto the Welshman as he was sole provider of goals. Jermain Defoe was the closest to Bale's 21 league goals with 11, and with Emmanuel Adebayor failing to hit the net more often, AVB has brought in Roberto Soldado from Valencia. The Spanish striker scored 24 league goals for Valencia last season and will add that much needed fire power.

As well as Soldado, Brazilian midfielder Paulinho signed at White Hart Lane for £17 million. His stand out performances at the Confederations Cup this summer, earned him a big money move, and alongside Dembele and Sandro, will make the Spurs midfield much stronger. A good start to the season will be key for Spurs if they are to break into the top four this season. They won two points from their opening three games last season. They kick of this season with an away trip to the newly promoted Palace before facing Swansea and then Arsenal in the first North London derby of the season.

Key Player: Gareth Bale

Predicted finish: 5th

West Bromwich Albion:
After a few attempts, it appears that West Brom have become an established Premier League side. Steve Clarke had an excellent first season in the Baggies' dugout finishing in eighth place. The question this season is whether they are to achieve similar success. Without Romelu Lukaku, goals will have to come from elsewhere. The answer to that could well be new boy Nicolas Anelka who joins his sixth Premier League team. (Can you name the other five?) Up front West Brom have Shane Long too, who had limited game time last season due to the form of Lukaku. Alongside Anelka, Clarke has brought in experience in defence with Uruguayan defender Diego Lugano making the move from PSG. The experienced centre back will fit into the English game perfectly with his tough tackling and good reading of the game. Another key figure for the Baggies is Youssuf Mulumbu who recently signed a new deal at the Hawthorns.

It will be hard to repeat the form of last season which saw them beat Liverpool at Anfield, as well as a home victory against Chelsea and a 5-5 draw at home to Manchester United. The first five games for West Brom are all winnable if they produce the form of last season with home games against Southampton, Sunderland and Swansea, as well as away trips to Everton and Fulham.

Key Player: Youssuf Mulumbu

Predicted finish: 11th

West Ham United:

picture: gettyimages.co.uk

If West Ham could have the most perfect season, then last year was certainly that. A tenth place finish in the league, excellent home form and being confirmed as tenants for the Olympic Stadium means that the Hammers are having a whale of a time. Sam Alladyce's side were beaten only four times meaning they gathered 33 points at home, a total bettered only by the top six sides. The loan signing of Andy Carroll last season was one that worked both for player and team and his seven goals were key in the Hammers excellent campaign. Carroll has since made the move permanent signing from Liverpool for £17million. His link up play with Kevin Nolan resulted in the captain's ten goals making him the club's top goal scorer. Carroll hasn't been the only signing made this summer with Real Betis keeper Adrian moving from Spain where he kept 11 clean sheets in 31 games last year. He will provide good competition with Jussi Jaaskelainen who was one of the stand out performers last year.

Alladyce will believe on their day his side can cause problems for any team in the division. The first six fixtures for his side avoid any of the top four and give the Hammers a chance for a good start to the season. They face the newly promoted Cardiff City on the opening day of the season. A fixture they played two seasons ago in the Championship, where a Kenny Miller goal was enough to give the Welsh club a 1-0 away win. West Ham will then travel to Newcastle, Southampton and Hull and also have home games against Everton and Stoke City.

Key Player: Andy Carroll

Predicted finish: 8th

Predicted League Table:

1. Chelsea

2. Manchester City

3. Manchester United

4. Arsenal

5. Tottenham Hotspur

6. Liverpool

7. Swansea City

8. West Ham United

9. Everton

10. Southampton

11. West Bromwich Albion

12. Aston Villa

13. Norwich City

14. Fulham

15. Newcastle United

16. Stoke City

17. Cardiff City

18. Sunderland

19. Hull City

20. Crystal Palace

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2012/13 Premier League: Preview Part 2

As promised we look at the second half of teams in the Premier League and look at their chances this year as well as the transfer activity they have been involved in.

Queens Park Rangers: 

picture: blogs.soccernet.com

After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, Rangers have been one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market. Manager Mark Hughes has brought in a number of players which include South Korean Park Ji-Sung from Manchester United and Junior Hoilett who made the move from Blackburn Rovers. Pre season has been very productive for the London side who have gone through unbeaten winning four and drawing two in their six games. With a squad full of Premier League experience, Rangers will want a higher finish in the league this season and want to establish themselves as a Premier League club.

Prediction: 19th

Reading:

Reading return to the Premier League after a four year absence from the top flight. They achieved automatic promotion last season finishing top of the Championship ahead of Southampton. Boss Brian McDermott has worked wonders at the Berkshire club and has significantly strengthened the squad during the summer transfer window. Chris Gunter has made the move from Nottingham Forest and is joined by forward Pavel Pogrebynak who chose Reading ahead of Fulham who he spent the second half of last season at. Left back Ian Harte is a set piece specialist and has gathered a number of goals and assists since he joined the Royals back in 2010. Strikers Jason Roberts and Adam Le Fondre scored a number of critical goals last year and they will be key if they are to remain in the top flight. 

Prediction: 16th

Southampton:

picture: saintscorner.tumblr.com

The Saints joined Norwich last season in achieving two successive promotions in two seasons. Having looked the favourites to win the league, the Saints were pipped to the title by Reading who they will join in the Premier League this season. Southampton open their campaign away at Manchester City, and will follow up with a trip to Arsenal and a home game against Manchester United. Manager Nigel Adkins paid £7million for Burnley striker Jay Rodriguez who scored 15 league goals for his former side last season. He joins a strong Saints front line with main man Rickie Lambert and fellow forward Billy Sharp expected to score the goals that will keep them in the league. 

Prediction: 20th

Stoke City:

Stoke had a busy season last year competing in four competitions and collecting plenty of air miles. Having finished runners up in the 2010/11 FA Cup, they achieved a place in the Europa League. The Potters made it comfortably past the group stages but their journey came to an end having lost to Valencia 2-0 on aggregate in the round of 32. Tony Pulis's men only managed four wins in the second half of the season meaning they finished in 14th place. The signing of Peter Crouch at the start of the season was a great acquisition by Pulis, and the frontman rewarded his manager by scoring one of the goals of the season against Manchester City. So far Pulis has only brought in three players in the window, Michael Kightly made the move from Wolves, and is joined by defender Geoff Cameron and midfielder Jamie Ness from Rangers. 

Prediction: 9th

Sunderland:

Martin O'Neill brought in a breath of fresh air for Sunderland last season replacing former boss Steve Bruce. Bruce was sacked midway through last year having only won two games in 13. The Black Cats finished in 13th place last season, and fans will want a significant improvement this year. The development of James McLean was something positive to take from last year, with the winger making the Republic of Ireland squad at the end of the season for Euro 2012. Sunderland only mastered 45 goals last season with Nicklas Bendtner their top goal scorer with only eight league goals to his name. If they are to improve on this total this season then O'Neill will need to bring in a centre forward to give them a greater threat upfront. 

Prediction: 11th

Swansea City:

picture: thesun.co.uk

Brendan Rogers took Swansea to an impressive 11th place finish last season and excellent performances throughout the year, saw him snapped up by Liverpool. His 'Tiki Taka' style of play saw Swansea beat Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal at home and eliminated any thoughts that his team would be favourites to be relegated. The loan signing of Gylfi Sigurdsson was a masterstroke by Rogers as the Icelandic starred in many games scoring important goals. Striker Danny Graham scored 12 league goals and with Scott Sinclair and Nathan Dyer aiding him out wide, Graham will want to better his tally this season. With Rogers off to Liverpool, former Juventus man Michael Laudrup took the reigns at the club and has so far brought in Spanish defender Chico and Spanish striker Michu from Rayo Vallecano during the window.

Prediction: 13th

Tottenham Hotspur:

Tottenham ended last season in fourth place having been title contenders mid way through the season. Due to Chelsea's Champions League final win, Spurs will be playing Europa League football though this year and not in the Champions League. Harry Redknapp was sacked at the end of the season and was replaced by Portuguese man Andre Villas Boas. Striker Emmanuel Adebayor was the top goal scorer for Spurs last season and scored 17 league goals in his loan spell. The Togo man has since gone back to parent club Man City and a deal to keep him at White Hart Lane has yet to be agreed. AVB has so far only brought in two players during the window, snapping up midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson, and defender Jan Vertonghen who signed from Ajax. 

Prediction: 6th

West Bromwich Albion:

Roy Hodgson's decision to become England manager has meant that WBA will start 2012/13 with Steve Clarke at the helm. Clarke spent the last season and a half as the number two to Kenny Dalglish at Liverpool, and was also Jose Mourinho's number two when the 'special one' was manager at Chelsea. Clarke's first competitive game as West Brom manager will be against former team Liverpool as they face each other at The Hawthorns on the opening day of the season. On loan last season, keeper Ben Foster signed permanently for the Baggies from Midland rivals Birmingham City. Swedish frontman Markus Rosenberg has also been brought in from Werder Bremen and will offer a further attacking threat alongside Shane Long and Peter Odemwinge.

Prediction: 17th

West Ham United:

picture: tbhr.co.uk

West Ham made an immediate return to the Premier League coming up through the play-offs. Sam Alladyce's men looked likely to achieve automatic promotion but poor performances in vital games meant they needed to go through the play-offs to get promoted. Alladyce has been busy in the transfer window so far bringing in eight players including goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and former Wigan man Mohamed Diame both on free transfers. West Ham will be looking to get off to a good start as they face Swansea, Aston Villa and Fulham in their first three games. Led by Kevin Nolan, goals shouldn't be a problem with Ricardo Vaz Te, Nicky Maynard and Carlton Cole all available to play up front. The experience of Matty Taylor and Mark Noble in midfield will help the younger players in the squad and guide the team through the season.

Prediction: 12th

Wigan Athletic:

Wigan made yet another remarkable escape last season avoiding relegation and finishing in 15th place above Aston Villa and QPR. This season will be their eighth successive season in the Premier League and will be manager Roberto Martinez's fourth in charge of the Lactics. The Spaniard turned down the chance to manager both Liverpool and Aston Villa to remain with Wigan. Martinez has been relatively quiet in the transfer market so far only bringing in just the two players. Fraser Fyvie has joined the club from Aberdeen and is joined by defender Ivan Ramis who decided to join Wigan when it looked like he was going to fellow Premier League side West Ham. 

Prediction: 18th

2012/13 Premier League: Star Games Part 2

As promised here is the second half of the stand out games for the up and coming season. Enjoy!

28/10/12: Chelsea v Man United

Brief Info: A stunning comeback from United last season saw one of the best games between the two teams. Three goals to the good, Chelsea were cruising until a Wayne Rooney penalty double and a late Javier Hernandez header saw the Red Devils clinch a well-earned point. The tie has always contained drama and United's 2-1 win at Old Trafford in the 2012/11 season saw Sir Alex Ferguson's men go within a point of clinching the title.

Past 10 meetings: Chelsea wins: 4 Man United wins: 4 Draws: 2 
Last meeting: Chelsea 3-3 Man United (Evans OG, Mata, Luiz, Rooney 2, Hernandez) 05/02/12
One to remember: Chelsea 3-3 Man United (Evans OG, Mata, Luiz, Rooney 2, Hernandez) 05/02/12

Interesting stat: There has not been a goal less draw between the sides in the league for 11 games since a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge back in 2007.

03/11/12: Man United v Arsenal

picture: zimbio.com

Brief Info: Like any other big game, Man United v Arsenal stands out as an excellent watch. Last seasons game at Old Trafford saw a remarkable score line with Man United winning 8-2. Wayne Rooney bagged a hat trick in a game that saw Arsenal's poor start to the season continue. Man United have dominated this fixture in the past ten games winning an impressive six with Arsenal not registering a win against them since 2006.

Past 10 meetings: Man United wins: 6 Arsenal wins: 2 Draws: 2
Last meeting: Arsenal 1-2 Man United (Van Persie, Welbeck, Valencia) 22/01/12
One to remember: Man United 8-2 Arsenal (Rooney 3, Young 2, Nani, Park, Welbeck, Van Persie, Walcott) 28/08/11)

Interesting stat: Former Gunner Thierry Henry and United striker Wayne Rooney, are level on eight goals in the top goal scorers in this fixture.

04/11/12: Liverpool v Newcastle

Brief Info: Newcastle have not recorded a win at Anfield since 1995. Liverpool outclassed the Magpies in their last encounter at Anfield where the Reds came out 3-1 winners thanks to a double from Craig Bellamy. Newcastle have always found it tough in this fixture. If they are to record an away win, then the strike partnership of Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse will need to be on top form.

Past 10 meetings: Liverpool wins: 7 Newcastle wins: 3 Draws: 0
Last meeting: Newcastle 2-0 Liverpool (Cisse 2) 01/04/12
One to remember: Newcastle 1-5 Liverpool (Edgar, Gerrard 2, Babel, Hyypia, Alonso) 28/12/08

Interesting stat: Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, has scored seven goals in his last ten games against Newcastle.

11/11/12: Man City v Tottenham

Brief Info: Despite their poor history against Spurs, Man City dominated the fixture last season with two excellent victories. City beat Spurs 5-1 at White Hart Lane and again beat Spurs in the return fixture 3-2 thanks to a late Mario Balotelli penalty.

Past 10 meetings: Man City wins: 3 Tottenham wins: 5 Draws 2
Last meeting: Man City 3-2 Tottenham (Nasri, Lescott, Balotelli, Defoe, Bale) 22/01.12
One to remember: Man City 2-3 Tottenham (Howey, Benarbia, Perry, Davies, Poyet) 23/12/02

Interesting stat: Manchester City have only won six of their last 30 games against Spurs, but have won the last three meetings.

11/11/12: Chelsea v Liverpool

Brief Info: These two teams played each other four times last season, with Liverpool winning three of them. The two Premier League wins for Liverpool last year, meant that for the last two seasons Liverpool have recorded a league double over Chelsea. The Blues have struggled to beat Liverpool in recent times, but managed a win in the recent FA Cup final where they came out 2-1 winners.

Past 10 meetings: Chelsea wins: 2 Liverpool wins: 6 Draws: 2
Last meeting: Liverpool 4-1 (Essien OG, Agger, Shelvey, Henderson, Ramires) 08/05/12
One to remember: Chelsea 1-2 Liverpool (Sturridge, Maxi, Johnson) 20/11/11

Interesting stat: Liverpool have come out winners in the last four league encounters between the clubs scoring an impressive nine goals, and only conceding just the two.

17/11/12: Arsenal v Tottenham

Brief Info: The North London derby is the biggest derby in the city and is well worth a watch looking back at the recent fixtures. Goals are always aplenty in the games with ten goals being scored in the two games last season. Arsenal came back from two goals down in the most recent game to win a resounding 5-2 at the Emirates.

Past 10 meetings: Arsenal wins: 4 Tottenham wins: 3 Draws: 3
Last meeting: Arsenal 5-2 Tottenham (Sagna, Van Persie, Rosicky, Walcott 2, Saha, Adebayor) 26/02/12
One to remember: Arsenal 4-4 Tottenham (Silvestre, Gallas, Adebayor, Van Persie, Bentley, Bent, Jenas, Lennon) 29/10/08

Interesting stat: Emmanuel Adebayor is only one of two players to have played and scored for both teams in this fixture. The other was Jimmy Robertson.

25/11/12: Chelsea v Man City

Brief Info: These two teams will play the first game of the season as they face each other in the Community Shield later today. The two fixtures last season resulted in a win and loss apiece for the two teams who have spent over £1 billion between them on players in the past few seasons. Chelsea have splashed the cash this year whereas Man City have yet to spend a penny. This fixture is always a close affair but home advantage for Chelsea may be key to victory.

Past 10 meetings: Chelsea wins: 6 Man City wins: 4 Draws: 0
Last meeting: Man City 2-1 Chelsea (Aguero, Nasri, Cahill) 21/03/12
One to remember: Chelsea 2-4 Man City (Lampard 2, Tevez 2, Bellamy 2) 27/02/10

Interesting stat: There has not been a goal less game between these teams in 14 meetings in the league. The last 0-0 match was back in 2005 at Stamford Bridge

25/11/12: Tottenham v West Ham

Brief Info: West Ham have struggled to overcome their London opponents having only recorded just the one win in the last ten games. The one win could have been two but for a stunning comeback made by Spurs back in 2003. Having been two goals up at half time, West Ham looked set for victory until four second half goals from Spurs meant they came away with the win.

Past 10 meetings: Tottenham wins: 7 West Ham wins: 1 Draws: 2
Last meeting: Tottenham 0-0 West Ham 19/03/11
One to remember: West Ham 3-4 Tottenham (Noble, Tevez, Zamora, Tainio, Berbatov, Stalteri) 04/03/03

Interesting stat: West Ham have not won a derby at White Hart Lane since April 99 where they beat Spurs 2-1

28/11/12: Tottenham v Liverpool

Brief Info: Liverpool will be looking to bounce back this year having been unable to record a win against Spurs in the last two seasons. The London side demolished their opponents at home last season beating them 4-0 thanks to a double strike from Emmanuel Adebayor. Tottenham ended their long win less run at Anfield in the 10/11 season, having gone ten years without registering a win.

Past 10 meetings: Tottenham wins 5 Liverpool wins: 3 Draws: 2
Last meeting: Liverpool 0-0 Tottenham 06/02/12
One to remember: Liverpool 2-2 Tottenham (Voronin, Torres, Keane 2) 07/10/07

Interesting stat: Tottenham have only managed to win once at Anfield in the last ten years. The victory came in the 2010/11 season where Spurs came out 2-0 winners thanks to goals from Rafael Van De Vaart and Luka Modric.

08/12/12: Man City v Man United

Brief Info: This fixture was the biggest game of last season as it had a massive say in the title race. City came out 1-0 winners and recorded a league double over their rivals as well as winning the league. City shocked the footballing world last season demolishing United 6-1 in their own backyard. This tie will once again have a big say in the season and will potentially see if City can retain the league.

picture: dailymail.co.uk

Past 10 meetings: Man City wins: 4 Man United wins: 5 Draws: 1
Last meeting: Man City 1-0 Man United (Kompany) 30/04/12
One to remember: Man United 4-3 Man City (Rooney, Fletcher 2, Owen, Barry, Bellamy 2) 20/09/09

Interesting stat: There were four meetings between the sides last season. (2 Premier League games, FA Cup game and Community Shield) which included 18 goals, 24 yellow cards and 3 red cards

29/12/12: Arsenal v Newcastle

Brief Info: This tie will be remembered for the incredible 4-4 draw between them at St James Park two seasons ago. Arsenal sailed into half time four goals to the good, and could not believe their eyes as Newcastle staged a sensational comeback to get a point. Unfortunately the fixture did not live up to the season before last year as they played out a dull 0-0 draw on the opening day of the 11/12 season.

Past 10 meetings: Arsenal wins: 4 Newcastle wins: 1 Draws: 5
Last meeting: Arsenal 2-1 Newcastle (Van Persie, Vermaelen, Ben Arfa) 12/03/12
One to remember: Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal (Best, Barton 2, Tiote, Van Persie 2, Walcott, Djourou) 05/02/12

Interesting stat: Arsenal have had three players sent off in the last four games, in this fixture.

Championship: 2011/12 season review

It may have been a cracking season in the Premier League, but throughout the three divisions in the football league, fans have not been disappointed with the levels of excitement throughout the season. In the Championship we saw Reading crowned as champions of the Championship with Southampton and West Ham joining them in the top flight next year. Joy for some clubs meant tears for others as Portsmouth, Coventry and Doncaster were relegated from the league. The fight for a play off place also took centre stage as a number of clubs fought for a place to give them a chance of promotion to the top division.

picture: football.co.uk

Having been relegated from the Premier League last season, West Ham were strong favourites to make an immediate return to the top flight. New boss Sam Alladyce brought in an array of talent throughout the season which included Nicky Maynard, Kevin Nolan, Matty Taylor and Ricardo Vaz Te. With the added experience, the Hammers had one of the strongest squads in the division. Having hovered around the top two for much of the season, a dip in form saw them slip down to third behind Reading and Southampton, meaning if they were to go up, they'd have to go through the play off's. Having beaten Cardiff in the semi finals, it was Blackpool standing in the way of the Hammers. However a late Vaz Te goal secured victory at Wembley and an immediate return for Alladyce's men.

The fight for a play off position was as exciting as ever, as a number of clubs fought for a chance to gain promotion to the Premier League. Cardiff City were again in the mix and after finishing fifth, were given the difficult task of facing West Ham. Relegated from the Premier League last season, Birmingham City and Blackpool faced each other in the other semi final. The likes of Middlesbrough and Brighton were amongst the play off's throughout the season, but eventually fell short meaning another season in the Championship for them. It was West Ham and Blackpool who made it through to the final at Wembley, and it was the Hammers who won beating the Seasiders 2-1.

picture: dailymail.co.uk

Despite the excitement at the top of the table, teams lower down the league were fighting it out to avoid relegation. Having been deducted ten points due to administration, Portsmouth were caught up in the relegation scrap. Having put up a valiant effort, Pompey couldn't overturn the deficit and were relegated with fellow sides Doncaster Rovers and Coventry City. Both Doncaster and Coventry spent the majority of the season in the bottom two and struggled to put any form together. Coventry only mastered up a poor nine wins throughout the whole season while Doncaster could only win eight games out of 46. Newly promoted side Peterborough United were relegated the last time they were in the Championship but after some astute signings, Darren Ferguson's side finished with a very respectable 50 points finishing in 18th position. Brighton who were also promoted with The Posh last season and enjoyed a good season, missing out on the play off's finishing in tenth position.

picture: readingfc.co.uk

Scoring an impressive 27 goals, Southampton striker Rickie Lambert took away the golden boot for the Championship. The centre forward continued to show what a finisher he is and guided the Saints to second place where they gained promotion to the Premier League. His goals though, weren't enough for Southampton to claim the title having been favourites to take top spot. They were pipped to the title by Reading whose excellent second half of the season, saw the Royals finish the season as champions. Losing only two of the last 19 league games, Brian McDermott's side enjoyed victories on the road against both Southampton and West Ham. Goals were a plenty throughout the season, as the Championship saw a number of high scoring games. In particular Nottingham Forest's 7-3 win at Leeds, and Peterborough United's 7-1 home drubbing of Ipswich the stand out games.

After another exciting season, next year will be sure to be as entertaining. The Championship will welcome Wolves, Bolton and Blackburn, who were relegated from the Premier League. The division will also welcome Charlton Athletic, Sheffield Wednesday and Huddersfield after they gained promotion from League One.

England: Euro 2012 squad announced

After much discussion and many opinions on who would get the call to the England squad, new manager Roy Hodgson finally announced his 23 man squad for the Euros today. The main talking point that arises from the squad is the exclusion of defender Rio Ferdinand who misses out. Other notable exclusions include Man City defender Micah Richards as well as strikers Darren Bent and Peter Crouch who were rumoured to be given the nod.

Goalkeeper John Ruddy and Arsenal winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are the two players included who are uncapped and are inclusions that have been praised amongst both media and fans. Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has been named as captain for the tournament by Hodgson, a welcome choice and a decision many expected. With two warm up games ahead, Hodgson will want to begin noting down a starting eleven for the tournament which will begin for England on the 11th June where they face France in their first group game.

We take a look at the 23 man squad that will represent England at Euro 2012:

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Man City), Robert Green (West Ham United), John Ruddy (Norwich City)

picture: bbc.co.uk

Norwich shot stopper John Ruddy is the stand out choice by Roy Hodgson, but a selection that has been merited by Ruddy's excellent displays for the Canaries this season. He played every Premier League game bar one for Norwich this year which included two clean sheets. He is joined in the squad by Joe Hart and Rob Green who have both had excellent seasons for their respective clubs. Hart has grown into the number one spot for England and is by far the best English goalkeeper between the sticks at the moment. The Manchester City keeper played in every Premier League game this season in helping them achieve the league title for the first time in 44 years. Second choice keeper Rob Green has bounced back well since his error in the World Cup two years ago and has had guided West Ham to the Championship play off final with an impressive 17 clean sheets. 

Defenders: Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Man Utd), John Terry (Chelsea), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Joleon Lescott (Man City), Leighton Baines (Everton), Ashley Cole (Chelsea)

picture: dailymail.co.uk

Only the seven defenders have been included in the squad which includes the absence of Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand. The centre back is a surprise omission from the squad which includes Chelsea captain John Terry. The former England captain's inclusion is the reason many thought Ferdinand wasn't but in his press conference, Hodgson explained the decision was purely based on football. Terry is joined by fellow club team mates Gary Cahill and Ashley Cole who were expected to be included. Liverpool right back Glen Johnson has also been selected and is thought to be chosen as England's number one right back. Johnson was thought to be joined by Spurs right back Kyle Walker, but a toe injury meant the defender misses out after having an excellent season for the London club. Instead Hodgson has included flexible defender Phil Jones who was selected ahead of Man City right back Micah Richards. Richards will be disappointed not to be selected after having a good season at the Etihad playing 29 games contributing 5 assists. Everton left back Leighton Baines and Man City defender Joleon Lescott have also been including making up the rest of the defenders selected. 

Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Ashley Young (Man Utd), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Gareth Barry (Man City), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur)

picture: guardian.co.uk

Arsenal youngster Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been rewarded with a call up to the squad after an impressive season at the Emirates. The 18-year old is the stand out selection in the midfield which also includes Liverpool winger Stewart Downing. Having played 36 games this season at Anfield, Downing ended having not registered a goal or assist. The selection is one that is a surprise considering the poor season the former Villa player has had. He is joined by team mate Steven Gerrard who has been selected as captain for the tournament. Gerrard captained England at their last major tournament two years ago at the World Cup where they fell to the Germans in a controversial quarter final. Despite suffering from an achilles injury, Spurs midfielder Scott Parker has been selected and after having an injection, Parker is expected to be fit for the tournament. Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has been included after a good season with The Gunners. Walcott ended the season with eight goals and eight assists and is no stranger to the England set up having been selected in the 2006 World Cup squad by former boss Sven Goran Eriksson. Ashley Young, Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry have all been selected making up the rest of the midfield. 

Strikers: Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Wayne Rooney (Man Utd), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur), Danny Welbeck (Man Utd)

picture: guardian.co.uk

With Wayne Rooney having to miss the first two games through suspension, it will be up to the remaining three strikers to make sure they score the goals. Rooney was sent off in England's last qualifying game in October against Montenegro which ruled him out for the first three games. However this ban was shortened to two games meaning Rooney will be available for the final group game against Ukraine. Club team mate Danny Welbeck has been selected by Hodgson having impressed throughout the season while partnering Rooney up front at United. Welbeck finished the season with nine goals. Liverpool front man Andy Carroll has also been included having finished the season strongly at Anfield. Rumour had it that Stoke forward Peter Crouch may have got the nod, but Carroll's strength and power seemed to be the reason Hodgson is taking the Geordie instead. Jermain Defoe is the final striker chosen in the squad having scored eleven goals this season, the majority from the Spurs bench.

Standby: Jack Butland (B'ham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea) 

Championship play off final preview: West Ham Utd v Blackpool

Having both been relegated from the top flight last season, both Blackpool and West Ham have the opportunity this weekend to bounce straight back. With one place up for grab, one of the sides will be making a lucrative return to the Premier League leaving the losers enduring another long season in the Championship. Both sides experienced different semi finals with West Ham easing past opponents Cardiff with a convincing 5-0 aggregate scoreline against the Welsh side. Blackpool however secured a final place after battling brilliantly in the second leg to prevent Birmingham City place taking the tie to extra time. The Seasiders came out against the Midlands side winning 3-2 on aggregate. Both clubs will be eager to return to the big time which will make it a very entertaining game.

Blackpool:

picture: thesun.co.uk

Ian Holloway took Blackpool to the promise land two years ago after beating Cardiff in the play off final at Wembley. His side gained many fans last year with his sides performances. Unfortunately they were relegated on the last day of the season after being narrowly beaten at Old Trafford by Manchester United. The Seasiders though are back again after just one season in the Championship. Two excellent displays in the semi finals against Birmingham ensured they made it to Wembley again, and even though they go into the tie with West Ham as underdogs,  they will know anything is possible on the day. Wingers Tom Ince and Matt Phillips have really shone for them this year and with the experience of another Phillips, Kevin, they have impressed this season. Loan signing Stephen Dobbie will be making his second appearance for Blackpool in the play off's in three years after he helped gain promotion two years ago and will be looking for a repeat performance.

West Ham United:

picture: caughtoffside.com

Having been tipped for automatic promotion at the start of the season, the Hammers would not have expected to be in this position come the end of the season. Sam Alladyce's side had been around the top of the table for much of the season, but after a terrific run by Reading they were pipped to a place and had to settle for a place in the play off's. Their last appearance in a play off final came in 2005 where they beat Preston 1-0 in a tight encounter at the Millennium Stadium. West Ham have always been renowned to be a Premier League club and a return to the big time is a must. Players such as Rob Green, Kevin Nolan and Carlton Cole are all proven at the top level and will not want another season in the Championship. Striker Ricardo Vaz Te has had an excellent season having moved to the Hammers in the January transfer market from Barnsley. The Portuguese forward has 21 league goals to his name this season, 11 of them coming in his time at Upton Park. Having previously played in the Premier League with Bolton, Vaz Te suffered an injury hit time at the Reebok and will want another chance to show he can prove himself in the top flight.

Prediction: Blackpool 1-2 West Ham Utd

Preview: Championship play off semi finals

The Championship season maybe over for some clubs, but there are still games left for four of the teams. Three games are all it takes for one team to make the step up to the Premier League. Three of the clubs in this years play off's all came down from the Premier League last season. Blackpool, Birmingham and West Ham are joined by Welsh outfit Cardiff City in the bid to make it to the big time. The first legs of the ties take place this week where we see West Ham take in Cardiff and Blackpool face Birmingham City.

1# West Ham v Cardiff City

picture: skysports.com

West Ham will not have expected to be in this position three months ago. The Hammers looked set to be returning to the big time through an automatic push. But with some poor performances and an incredible run by Reading, United were pushed out the top two and now are having to settle for the play off's. Having being expected to gain automatic promotion, West Ham's season will be a massive failure if they fail to go up. With top players on their side, it is essential they return to the big time. The Hammers are in good form going into their game at Cardiff having only lost one game in the last eighteen. Manager Sam Alladyce isn't new to the play off's having taken former club Bolton Wanderers via this route in 2001. Opposition for West Ham comes in the form of Cardiff City who again will be wanting promotion having witnessed fellow Welsh side Swansea gain promotion through this route last season. Malky Mackay is also no stranger to the play off's having experienced promotion whilst working at Watford in 2006. The Bluebirds have experienced play off heart ache in the last two seasons having been knocked out by Reading at the same stage last season. They were also beaten by Blackpool in the play off final in 2010. 

2# Blackpool v Birmingham City

picture: telegraph.co.uk

Two relegated sides from last year, Blackpool and Birmingham both went down after results went against them on the final day of the season. Ian Holloway's Blackpool finished the season in fifth place behind opponents Birmingham who finished fourth. The Midlands club will fancy their chances with the second leg taking place at St Andrews. The two sides drew 2-2 at Blackpool last November which then saw the two play each other again in December where Birmingham took the points winning 3-0 at St Andrews. Blackpool are familiar with the play off's having gained promotion in 2010 where they beat Cardiff City at Wembley. Experienced striker Kevin Phillips will be facing his former side as he aims to get back into the big time. It's another Phillips though that will catch the eye, Matt, who ended the season with a place in the Championship team of the year. Opponents for the Seasiders Birmingham City go into this fixture as slight favourites and will want an instant return to the Premier League. Chris Hughton's side have had a decent season having worked their way up the table after having to catch up on games due to Europa League commitments. Striker Marlon King and winger Chris Burke have been key for the Blues this year and their contributions will need to continue if they are to make a return.