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.

2012/13: Premier League Preview Part 1

Only a week away, the new Premier League season is upon us. After a mesmerizing season last year, we are certainly in store for another memorable year of football. In our first of two posts, we look at each of the clubs in the league, rate their chances, and look at the transfer activity they have been doing over the past couple of months.

Arsenal: 
Arsenal's pre season has been dominated by the everlasting story of captain Robin Van Persie's eagerness to move away from the North London club. As of yet, he is still a Gunner but has recently been linked with a move away to Manchester United. Rivals City have already ruled out a move for the forward, so Old Trafford looks the likely destination for the Dutchman. The Gunner's finished third last season ahead of rivals Spurs so will once again play Champions League football in what will be their 21st season in the Premier League. Manager Arsene Wenger has been busy in the transfer market bringing in two strikers to the team. German striker Lukas Podolski and Frenchman Olivier Giroud have been joined by Spanish playmaker Santi Cazorla totalling nearly £40 million between the three.

Prediction: 4th

Aston Villa:

picture: blogs.bettor.com

Villa had a frustrating season last year, narrowly avoiding relegation finishing 16th only two points away from Bolton who were relegated on the final day last season. Manager Alex McLeish was sacked soon after the season finished with former Norwich man Paul Lambert the replacement. Lambert kept the Canaries in the division last year and impressed fans with the excellent performances taking points away from Liverpool and Tottenham away from home. So far he has brought in a number of players including Dutch defender Ron Vlaar and Moroccan Karim El Ahmadi. The key for Villa is to keep main man Darren Bent who picked up an injury last year. But if he is given the service then goals shouldn't be an issue with Bent upfront.

Prediction: 14th

Chelsea:

Roberto Di Matteo ended last season winning both the Champions League and the FA Cup as the caretaker boss. He was rewarded with the permanent position at the end of the season after his success, and will want to build on that in the coming season. Talisman Didier Drogba left Chelsea on a high scoring in the FA Cup final and the winning penalty in the Champions League. His role has been left for Fernando Torres, who started to show small signs of promise at the end of the season. Roman Abramovich has invested big money already in players with Edin Hazard and Oscar brought in, both for mammoth fees. Under Di Matteo, Chelsea fans will expect big things this year, and with another couple of signings, they will be definitely challenging for a place in the top four at the end of the season. 

Prediction: 3rd

Everton:

picture: clickliverpool.com

Everton finished above rivals Liverpool for only the second time in the last ten years. Despite losing both derby games to them, David Moyes guided his side to a very respectable seventh. The astute signing of Croatian Nikica Jelavic meant that goalscoring wasn't an issue and with his contribution of 11 goals in the second half of the season, meant his side finished strongly. The loan signing too of Steven Pienaar also was another key move by Moyes and after signing permanently for the forthcoming season, the South African will be a central role to their attacking moves. Australian Tim Cahill has moved on after 8 years of excellent service moving to the American league where he will play for New York Red Bulls. 

Prediction: 8th

Fulham: 

Fulham are unbeaten in their pre season winning four and drawing two of their six games. Martin Jol took the club to a ninth place finish last season after he was given the manager's job at the beginning of the season taking over from Mark Hughes. The goals from Clint Dempsey were a massive factor in their final place after he scored an excellent 16 goals from midfield. The American has been linked with Liverpool throughout the summer but as of yet he will remain a Fulham player. Jol has brought in three players so far with Hugo Rodallega moving on a free from Wigan the most notable move. After a successful loan spell in the second half of last season, forward Pavel Pogrebnyak moved onto fellow Premier League side Reading. Captain Danny Murphy also moved on as he went to Championship side Blackburn Rovers on a free transfer. 

Prediction: 10th

Liverpool: 

picture: mirror.co.uk

Despite winning the League Cup, Liverpool suffered another poor season finishing in a dismal eight place. But with a new manager Brendan Rogers in place, Liverpool fans will have high hopes for the coming season. Rogers Swansea side impressed everyone last year with their style of football, and if Liverpool can begin to play a similar way, then they will be ones to watch. So far Rogers has brought in two former Swans with striker Fabio Borini arriving from Roma, and midfield man Joe Allen joining from Swansea. Frontman Andy Carroll has made many a headline this year and has been rumoured to be on his way out from Anfield. The former Newcastle man showed signs of his former self at the end of last year, but may struggle to make the first eleven this season meaning his future may be elsewhere. 

Prediction: 5th

Manchester City:

The reigning champions are the only Premier League side yet to bring anyone in during the current transfer window. Roberto Mancini's side have been relatively quiet as they prepare for their opening game against newly promoted Southampton. City won the league in the final minute of the season last year thanks to a late Sergio Aguero goal. They battled with their rivals Man United throughout the season, and despite doing the double over their rivals, United were continuously on their tails. City will go into the season as favourites led by captain Vincent Kompany who recently signed a new long term deal with the club. Bad boy Mario Balotelli shined at Euro 2012 and if he can avoid getting into any trouble this year, the Italian will be dangerous to teams who come up against him. With the return of Carlos Tevez last season, City's strike force were a real threat to defences and the club were the top goal scorers in the league mastering a huge 93 goals. 

Prediction: 1st

Manchester United:

picture: sportinglife.com

Manchester United will go into their 38th consecutive season in the top flight. After narrowly missing out on the title last year, they will be looking to make it 20 Premier League titles edging further away from Liverpool's 18. Sir Alex Ferguson has brought in only the two players so far in the transfer window with playmaker Shinji Kagawa making the move from Borussia Dortmund and youngster Nick Powell making the step up from Crewe Alexandra. Ferguson has also stated his desire to bring in Arsenal frontman Robin Van Persie, and after rivals City ruled out a move for him, Old Trafford looks like his preferred destination. If he makes the move, he will link up with Wayne Rooney who scored an impressive 27 league goals last year, just three behind the Arsenal man.  

Prediction: 2nd

Newcastle United:

Alan Pardew was rightly awarded manager of the year last season after guiding Newcastle to an excellent fifth place in the league. The signings of Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse proved to be a master stroke by Pardew with the pair scoring 29 league goals between them. United registered league wins against both Manchester United and Liverpool at home making the Sports Direct Arena a fortress to play in. Following last season will be a big task for Newcastle. Pardew has Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa alongside his strike force and they will be key to creating the chances up front. Gael Bigirimana has made the move to the club after impressing for Championship side Coventry City last season. He has been joined by defender Curtis Good and midfielder Roman Amalfitano so far, and more signings are expected to arrive at the Magpies before the window closes. 

Prediction: 7th

Norwich City:

picture: mirror.co.uk

Norwich City made the giant leap straight from the Championship two seasons ago having gained automatic promotion. Finishing in 12th position last year, the Canaries impressed throughout the season under boss Paul Lambert. Due to this success Lambert was snapped up by Aston Villa leaving Norwich with former Birmingham City man Chris Hughton at the helm. With a new boss, striker Grant Holt made the decision to remain at the club having before made a transfer request at the end of the season. Holt's 15 league goals made him the second highest English goalscorer behind Wayne Rooney last season. Hughton has made some excellent signings so far bringing in defender Michael Turner from Sunderland as well as the impressive Robert Snodgrass, who made the move from Leeds United. 

Prediction: 15th

Part 2 to follow...

League One and Two: 2011/12 season reviews

It was a fantastic season in both League One and League Two which saw joy and tears for both fans and players. Charlton Athletic and Swindon claimed the league title in League One and Two respectively. Both club's managers were former players and had not been in management long. Chris Powell, a former Charlton player guided the Addicks to the Championship next season. For Swindon, the ever humorous Paolo Di Canio guided his side to the League Two championship as well as an appearance at Wembley in the Johnstone Paint Trophy final where they were defeated by Chesterfield.

picture: dailymail.co.uk

The race for second place and the final automatic promotion spot in League One was one of the closest race for it in a while. Sheffield Wednesday were the eventual winners taking it ahead of arch rivals Sheffield United who had to settle for the play off's. With 40 goal man Jordan Rhodes, Huddersfield were also in contention for the place during the season but like Sheffield United in the end had to settle for a play off place. They were both joined in the play off's by the ever present MK Dons and newly promoted Stevenage. Promoted via the play off's in League Two last season, Stevenage were narrowly beaten by Sheffield United in the semi finals, which saw Huddersfield overcome MK Dons in the other semi final in a close fought encounter. It was Huddersfield though that came out winners in the final at Wembley, beating Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United in a penalty shoot out. United keeper Steve Simonsen missed the decisive penalty which saw Huddersfield win 8-7.

picture: wearegoingup.co.uk

Looking down to the bottom of the division, four teams were relegated from the League down to League Two. Having been promoted automatically from League Two last season, both Wycombe and Chesterfield failed in their bid to play another season in the third tier of English football. They were joined by Rochdale and Exeter who will bemoan a poor season in League One. Having finished in a respectable ninth the season before, Rochdale surprisingly found themselves in the bottom four for the majority of this season only managing eight wins in their 46 league games. Just like Rochdale, Exeter narrowly missed out on a play off place the season before, but by only managing two away wins all season, they will now play their football in League Two next year.

picture: thisisswindontownfc.co.uk

Moving onto League Two, it was Swindon Town who took the title under manager Paolo Di Canio. Having been relegated from League One last season, Di Canio's men have made an immediate return to League One. They were joined by fellow sides Crawley Town and Shrewsbury who secured automatic promotion. Having been promoted to League Two from the conference last season, Crawley secured back to back promotions. Their season also contained a memorable FA Cup run beating the likes of Hull City and Bristol City before falling to Premier League side Stoke City. Having also lost strikers Matt Tubbs and Tyrone Barnett to bigger clubs, getting promoted again this season is some achievement. With three of the four promotion places gone, there was one more promotion spot available to the four teams in the play off's. It was Crewe that took the initiative and achieved promotion after beating Cheltenham in the final at Wembley. Crewe had beaten Southend in the semi finals, while Cheltenham overcame Torquay United in their semi final tie.

picture: herefordtimes.com

Joy for some was despair for others, as two teams from League Two made the drop from the Football League into the Blue Square Premier Division. Despite a final day victory over Torquay, relegation wasn't prevented for Hereford Town. The Bulls were relying on fellow side Barnet to slip up in their game, but after they beat Burton, Hereford slipped out of League Two into the Blue Square. Defeat meant that Hereford dropped out the Football League for the first time in 15 years. Despite winning their last two games, poor form over the season was their downfall. They are joined by Macclesfield Town who endured a dreadful season. A 22 match win less run stretching to the end of December ended their 15 year stay in the Football League. The run included 15 defeats with the 2-0 home defeat to Burton the game that sent the Silkmen down. Fleetwood Town and York City will take their places after they were promoted from the Blue Square Premier Division.

After another exciting season in the Football League we are sure to see as much even more drama than we have this season in the coming twelve months. The fixtures for the Football League are released on the 18th June at 9am giving plenty of time for fans to start organising their trips to games for next season.

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.

Premier League: 2011/12 End of season review

It has been quite a season in the Premier League this year. We have seen some astonishing games and some quite brilliant goals. After an extroadinary last day of the season, it was the blue side of Manchester that took the title, and the bragging rights this year, over rivals Manchester United. The race for the final two Champions League places was another highlight of the season with four teams in contention for it over the final third of the season. The relegation battle was also taken to the final day of the season, with QPR and Bolton battling it out to avoid the drop. It was Bolton though, that followed Blackburn Rovers and Wolves to the Championship where they will play their football next year.

picture: jobsformyprofile.com

In the domestic competitions, Manchester United earned the first trophy of the season, beating rivals Manchester City 3-2 in the Community Shield at Wembley. Coming from two goals down, United winger Nani scored a late winner to claim victory and the first piece of silverware of the season. Despite a very poor season, Liverpool claimed the Carling Cup and a first trophy in six years. Victory came though after opponents Cardiff City forced a penalty shoot out after it had looked like Dirk Kuyt's goal would be good enough for the win. Liverpool were again present at Wembley after making it to the FA Cup final where they faced Chelsea who came out 2-1 winners thanks to goals from Didier Drogba and Ramires.

picture: guardian.co.uk

Focus back on the Premier League, the fight for Champions League place was one of the hottest contests for some time. Having finished the season poorly, Tottenham Hotspur claimed the fourth and final spot only for it to be taken away from them having seen Chelsea win the competition weeks later. Newcastle will have felt unlucky to have missed out on a Champions League place after having an excellent season which ended in a very respectable fifth place. Manager Alan Pardew was given manager of the season, and with Senegalese strikers Demba Ba and Papa Cisse producing the goods upfront, Newcastle were extremely consistent all year. Arsenal finished third having started the season poorly. Talisman Robin Van Persie guided the Gunners to a Champions League place finishing the season with a brilliant 30 league goals.

picture: ibnlive.in.com

As always the relegation fight was as exciting as it ever is. Wigan Athletic were odds on to take the drop but after escaping it last season, they made a repeat performance after going on an excellent run in the second half of the season to keep them up. Victories on the road against Arsenal and Liverpool, and a home win against Man United enabled Roberto Martinez's club the opportunity for Premier League football next season. Despite drawing at Anfield and beating Man United at Old Trafford, Blackburn Rovers were relegated alongside Wolves and Bolton Wanderers. Bolton were still within a shout of staying up on the final day of the season, but a draw away at Stoke wasn't enough for Owen Coyle's side to stay up. Wanderers were fighting QPR on the final day for the final place and although Rangers lost to Manchester City, they remain in the Premier League for next season. Southampton, Reading and West Ham replace the relegated sides next season after being promoted from the Championship.

The title race was also as exciting this season with the Manchester clubs battling it out against each other for the top prize. It looked early on that City would be taking the trophy for the first time in 44 years, but as they always do, rivals United caught up and were eight points clear going into the final games of the season. But a small dip in results, and a derby defeat at the Etihad, saw City clinch title on the last day of the season. United's 1-0 away win at Sunderland and with City 2-1 down to QPR going into the final minutes, it looked like United would be taking their 20th title. But two late goals from Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero saw the blue side of Manchester snatch the trophy away from their city rivals and end a phenomenal season in the Barclay's Premier League.

League Two play off final preview: Cheltenham Town v Crewe Alexandra

Sunday's League Two play off final will be the last game of the 2011/12 football league season. Having seen West Ham clinch the first victory in the Championship play off final last week, one team from League Two has the chance to achieve similar success. Cheltenham Town or Crewe face each other at Wembley and the winner will be playing in League One next season. Both teams finished below their semi final opponents in the league this year with Crewe beating Southend and Cheltenham beating Torquay in their respective games.

Crewe Alexandra:

picture: dailymail.co.uk

Crewe go into the final on Sunday appearing in their sixth play off campaign. The last time they were successful in the play off's came back in 1997 where they beat Brentford to reach the second tier of English football. Having finished in the final place of the play off's, Crewe overcame semi final opponents Southend winning 3-2 on aggregate. The Staffordshire club are now 18 games unbeaten in the league, having not lost a league game since playing Southend on 18th February. Crewe will go into the game full of confidence having beaten their opponents Cheltenham Town twice this season, winning 1-0 on both occasions. Youngster Nick Powell will be the key figure for Alex on Sunday, having scored 15 goals in all competitions this year. The highly rated 18 year old is set to sign for giants Manchester United next season after a impressing this year in League Two.


Cheltenham Town:

picture: maxihobbs.com

Going into their third play off final, Cheltenham Town are unbeaten in their play off history. Having gained promotion via them in 2001/02 and 2005/06, they will be going into Sunday's final wanting to achieve similar success. Town overcame Torquay United in the play off semi finals beating them 4-1 on aggregate. Current boss Mark Yates was a play off winner for the club back in 2002 where they beat Rushden and Diamonds 3-1 at the Millennium Stadium. Yates guided the club to a sixth place finish, five points above opponents Crewe. Winger Jermaine McGlashan is the man to watch for Town having impressed in the semi finals scoring in both ties. 

Prediction: Crewe 2-1 Cheltenham Town

League One play off final preview: Huddersfield Town v Sheffield United

As everyone starts to concentrate on the upcoming European Championships, there are still a couple of games that will decide which teams will be playing in both League One or League Two next season. Both play off finals take place this weekend at Wembley. First up is the League One play off final on Saturday which sees a Yorkshire derby between Huddersfield Town and Sheffield United. Both teams will be desperate to gain the final promotion spot having both had seasons which thoroughly deserve promotion. Huddersfield Town will be eager to gain the final place having missed out last season after being beaten in the final to Peterborough United. On the other hand, Sheffield United looked certain to go up automatically but were narrowly pipped by arch rivals Sheffield Wednesday and will want an immediate return to the Championship following last seasons relegation.

Huddersfield Town:

picture: dailymail.co.uk

This will be the third time Huddersfield Town will be in a play off final after making it in 2004 and 2011. The first time they reached a play off final was when they played Mansfield Town in the old Division Three play off final winning 4-1 on penalties. As already mentioned their most recent appearance came against Peterborough United last season where they were beaten 3-0 at Old Trafford in the League One play off final. Town progressed to the final this year after overcoming MK Dons over the two legs winning 3-2 on aggregate. Striker Jordan Rhodes scored twice over the legs making it an incredible 40 goals in all competitions this year. The forward has been a key figure in the club's charge for promotion this year scoring a number of hat tricks including an impressive four goals in the 4-4 draw away at Sheffield Wednesday. Huddersfield will fancy their chances on Saturday against opponents Sheffield United after beating them 3-0 at Bramall Lane earlier on in the season. Boss Simon Grayson has excellent history in the play off's having managed former clubs Blackpool and Leeds United to promotion while in charge.

Sheffield United:

picture: dailymail.co.uk

Relegated from the Championship last season, Sheffield United will be keen to make an immediate return. Having narrowly missed out to on an automatic spot to arch rivals Sheffield Wednesday, United have good enough reason for wanting promotion to the Championship. Their last appearance in the play off's came in 2003 where they were beaten by Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-0 in the old Division One play off final at Millennium Stadium. Since, the Blades have had appearances in the Premier League and the Championship before being relegated last season to League One. United could feel lucky to be playing at Wembley on Saturday after struggling to get past their semi final opponents Stevenage. The Blades came out 1-0 winners on aggregate after a last minute winner in the second leg from forward Chris Porter. Goals have not been hard to come for United this season having had striker Ched Evans in great form notching 35 goals in all competitions. But after being found guilty of rape, Evans was sent to prison leaving United boss Danny Wilson with problems up front. If selected it could be up to semi final hero, Porter to provide the goods if United are to go back up.

Prediction: Huddersfield Town 2-0 Sheffield United

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: League Two play off semi finals

We continue with previews of this years Football League play off's by looking at League Two and the semi finals that kick off this weekend. The first semi final kicks off tomorrow where we see Crewe Alexandra take on Southend in a late afternoon kick off at Gresty Road. The second semi final follows on Sunday lunchtime where we see the other semi final take place between Cheltenham and Torquay.

#1 Crewe Alexandra  v Southend Utd

picture: thefootballnetwork.net

Staffordshire side Crewe Alexandra go into the semi final in excellent form having gone the last sixteen league games unbeaten. This run included seven wins and nine draws which saw them claim seventh spot in the league and the last play off place up for grabs. A draw away at Macclesfield on the final day of the season saw them clinch the place ahead of fellow sides Oxford and Gillingham. Opponents for Alex come in the form of Southend who narrowly missed out on an automatic spot to Crawley on the final day of the season. The Essex club come into the play off's unbeaten in the last five conceding no goals. Paul Sturrocks side are aiming to replicate the side of 2004/05 where a Steve Tilson side saw them promoted from a similar position to that of this season. Strikers Freddy Eastwood and Neil Harris give the side much needed experience with Harris having helped former club Millwall to play off success in 2009. The play off tie is Crewe's sixth attempt at promotion from the play off's with their last successful attempt coming in 1997 where they were promoted to the second tier of English football. 

#2 Cheltenham Town v Torquay

picture: ctfc.com

Having narrowly missed out last season to Stevenage in the play off final, Torquay will want to go one better and achieve promotion to League One this time round. However they will need to buck up their ideas this weekend as they go into the semi final having not won in their previous five league games. This poor run ended their chances of automatic promotion after being in second in April. They come up against Cheltenham who are looking to return to League One after playing in League Two for the past three seasons. The Gloucestershire club are on a good run after achieving back to back victories from their last two games of the season. They will go into the tie with good history in the play off's having gained promotion from them in 2002 and 2006 both to League One. Torquay though came out on top in the league's fixtures between the two this season having beaten Cheltenham at Whaddon Road 1-0 and managing a 2-2 draw when they played at home. 

Preview: League One play off semi finals

With the Football League season now over, there are still games to play for clubs fighting it out in the play off's in all three divisions. After seeing the Championship play off's kick off last week, its the turn of the teams in League One on Friday and Saturday. Having failed at the same stage last season, MK Dons will hope for better luck this time after being beaten by winners Peterborough Utd last year. They face Huddersfield Town who were also beaten 3-0 by Peterborough last year in the show piece final at Old Trafford. The other semi sees two teams, who entered the division at different ends last year, fight for a final promotion place. Sheffield United who were relegated from the Championship last year take on Stevenage who were promoted last year via the League Two play off's.

#1 MK Dons v Huddersfield Town

picture: mkdons.com

Both MK Dons and Huddersfield will be looking to succeed at the play off's this year after both falling to Peterborough United in last year's League One play off's. After only managing one win in five games before Saturday, Huddersfield's 2-0 home win against Yeovil on the last day of the season will give the team confidence going into the first leg lunchtime clash on Saturday. They travel to MK Dons, who were five games unbeaten before defeat a surprise home defeat to Walsall on Saturday.  Dons and Huddersfield drew both league games between them this year meaning a close encounter will be expected over the two legs. Town boss Simon Grayson has a lot of experience in the play off's having guided former club Blackpool to play off success in 2007 where he saw the Seasiders gain promotion from League One to the Championship. Grayson also guided old club Leeds United to the League One play off's in his first season at |Elland Road but defeat to Millwall in the semi final's ended the clubs chance of promotion that year. MK Dons go into the tie having never won a two legged semi final play off tie after three attempts. Defeat to Shrewsbury Town in 2007 in League Two was followed by defeats in League One in 2008/09 by Scunthorpe and then by Peterborough United last season. 

#2 Stevenage v Sheffield United

picture: mirrorfootball.co.uk

After being beaten to the final automatic spot by rivals Sheffield Wednesday, Sheffield United have the difficult task of the play off's if they are to make an immediate comeback to the Championship. The Blades looked certain to achieve automatic promotion, but after only picking up just two points from the last three games, were pipped to the finish by their arch rivals. They come up against newly promoted Stevenage who have had an excellent season. Promoted via the play off's last season from League Two saw Stevenage achieve back to back promotions after achieving promotion from the Conference the season before. Having changed manager in January this year, Stevenage secured a play off place with a home win against Bury on the final day of the season and also enjoyed a decent cup win taking Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur to a replay in the FA Cup. The clubs will play the first leg on Friday night where Sheffield United look set to be without veteran striker James Beattie who was sent off against Exeter at the weekend. Having already being without top goal scorer Ched Evans, it leaves United struggling for strikers in their bid for promotion. 

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. 

FA Cup Final Preview: Chelsea v Liverpool

As we come to the end of the season, we see the FA Cup final arrive and a chance for silverware. After a Premier League v Championship clash in the Carling Cup final this year, we have two Premier League clubs taking each other on at Wembley. Chelsea who have been revitalised under temporary boss Roberto Di Matteo take on Carling Cup winners and an under performing Liverpool side. The London side have an important few weeks ahead of them as they try to secure a top four finish in the league as well as a Champions League final too against German giants Bayern Munich. On the other hand, Liverpool have had another inconsistent season in the league only winning five home games all year. The Carling Cup final win against Cardiff in February gave fans some silverware to sing about and a win this weekend will do no harm either.

Chelsea:

picture: wikipedia.org

After the sacking of former boss Andre Villas Boas, Chelsea were in disarray. Months later and the Blues are now in a position noone would have predicted at the start of the year. Under temporary manager Di Matteo, Chelsea's form have seen them battling it out for a top four finish in the league and two cup finals to play. This weekend's final against Liverpool is the first final for the club since the 2009/10 season where they beat Portsmouth 1-0 at Wembley to win the FA Cup. Striker Fernando Torres has rediscovered his form of old and after scoring four goals in his last two games, the Spaniard will want to continue finding the net against his old club. Fellow forward Didier Drogba has an incredible record at Wembley scoring an impressive seven goals in his seven appearances there. With it looking likely that Drogba will leave at the end of this season, he will want to reward the fans with one last strike. Defensively Chelsea look likely to be without Gary Cahill and David Luiz who are nursing injuries and with a hugely important midweek clash at home to Newcastle, the squad will certainly be stretched this week.

Liverpool:

picture: cliverich.com

After another poor season in the league, Liverpool set their eyes upon their second cup final of the season. Success at the hands of Cardiff in February's Carling Cup final has been the only positive come from their year. Dismal home form has seen them win only five games out of a possible 18. Kenny Dalglish's side have though shown what a good side they can be in this years cups. Victories against both Manchester clubs, Chelsea and Everton this year in both cups has taken away the up and down season they have endured in the league. Since an eight game ban for racism, striker Luis Suarez has shone with some important goals including the equaliser in the semi final of the FA Cup against Everton. A stunning hat trick against Norwich at the weekend, which included a 45-yard lob, has given the Uruguayan some positives to take away from the season. Apart from long term absentees Charlie Adam and Lucas Leiva, Dalglish will take a fully fit squad to London which will see them play at Wembley for the third time this season.

One to watch: Juan Mata (Chelsea) 

picture: soccer-magazine.com

After just one season in England, Juan Mata has shown why he was so highly rated at Valencia. The Spaniard has given Chelsea that added spark in midfield and his creativity has seen him become one of the side's key members. His excellent vision and his hard work at both ends of the pitch, Mata will be very important if Chelsea are to come out winners on Saturday. He has had played in a number of positions this year, part of a front three or as a wide man and has looked comfortable every time. He has scored a number of important goals this year for the club including the 'ghost goal' against Tottenham Hotspur in the recent semi final.

One to watch: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) 

picture: topnews.in

Captain fantastic is going to have to have an excellent game this weekend if he is to add another medal to his collection. Gerrard showed why he is so vital to this club when he scored a wonderful hat trick against rivals Everton in the 3-0 home win earlier on in the year. His determination and his ability to change games has seen the midfielder become one of the all time greats at Anfield. Gerrard will want a repeat of the Carling Cup win  which saw his side reach a final since the Champions League final in 2007. Gerrard has been unfortunate with injuries this season and the Englishman will do all he can to drive his team to success in the clubs second final of the season. 

Prediction: Liverpool 1-2 Chelsea

Norwich City: The perfect example for newly promoted Reading

After a 1-0 home win to Nottingham Forest last week, Reading secured promotion to the Premier League after a four year absence from the top division. Brian McDermott's side have been hovering around the top of the Championship since late February and were rewarded with promotion after an excellent second half of the season from his side.

picture: espn.co.uk

Now back in the big time, it is imperative that the Royals invest correctly in the summer. With Anton Zingarevich set to take over the club in the coming weeks then the opportunity to bring in players will definitely be available to McDermott. The current side contains experienced players who have played in the Premier League before. Striker Jason Roberts and midfield dynamo Hayden Mullins have both spent long spells in the top division. But with other squad members in line to experience the top flight for the first time in their careers, it is important that they bring in good signings.If we take a look at the sides promoted to the Premier League this from last season, we can look at the success  of bringing in the right players. Take Norwich City for example. Under the guidance of Paul Lambert, they managed an excellent double promotion in just the two seasons. They currently sit comfortably in thirteenth and have not been at any threat of relegation this year. 

picture: blogspot.com

Against the odds the Canaries have impressed this year and thanks to the right signings, they have produced some excellent performances. Norwich brought in a number of lower league players at the start of the season. These included Elliot Bennett, Bradley Johnson, Kyle Naughton (on loan from Spurs) and Steve Morison. Alongside the power of captain Grant Holt, these players have blended wonderfully into the squad. With the limited resources at the club, credit goes to the team who have proved the doubters wrong and will more than likely finish the league mid table ahead of the likes of Aston Villa and Bolton. 

In contrast to this, QPR are struggling and are fighting off relegation. Although this may have something to do with the change of manager mid season, the team have not produced such great performances that saw them champions of the Championship last season. Sacking former boss Neil Warnock has yet to prove the correct decision with the side currently in a relegation scrap. New manager Mark Hughes went transfer crazy in the January transfer window bringing in Bobby Zamora, Djibril Cisse, and Nedum Onuoha. Yes these players may bring in a wealth of Premier League experience, but the lack of togetherness alongside the never ending drama of captain Joey Barton has seen the London side struggle.

We can't finish without mentioning the success of Swansea who came up through the play offs beating Reading at Wembley last season. Thrashed 4-0 away at Man City on the opening day of the season, the Welsh team were odds on to be relegated come May time. But like Norwich, Brendan Rogers side have played some excellent football this year and are well worthy of their continuation in the top flight next year.

Reading have been in the Premier League before and slowly became an established side until performances dropped and were eventually relegated. It has taken them four years to get back to the big time but with decent signings and the odd bit of luck, there is no reason why they can't be as successful as Norwich and Swansea have been this year. 

Top 5 Football League players of the year

As we come to the end of another fantastic season in the Football League, we look at the top five players that have shone this year in the Championship, League One and Two.

1# Rickie Lambert- Southampton

picture: zimbio.com

The Southampton striker has scored a mammoth 31 goals in all competitions this year and has been a massive star in the club's drive for promotion to the Premier League next year. Lambert has notched an impressive four hat tricks in the league this season including an excellent performance in the away win at Watford. His penalty taking continues to impress having not missed a spot kick while playing for the Saints. The former Bristol Rovers man gained automatic promotion with Southampton last season finishing top goalscorer at the club where they finished runners up to league champions Brighton. Lambert was awarded Championship player of the year this season as well as being included in the Championship team of the year alongside fellow team mates Adam Lallana and Kelvin Davis. Having proved himself in every division in the football league, Lambert will be keen to show his goalscoring talents in England's top division next year.

2# Chris Burke- Birmingham City
An unsung hero for the Blues, Burke has been a key member of the team that has seen them reach the Championship play off's. Contributing an impressive 14 goals from the wing, Burke has added experience to the side. Having moved from Cardiff in the summer, Burke has established himself in the Midland's side and will be important when his side play in the play off's later next month. As well as chipping in with goals, the Scottish international is the lead assister in the Championship with an excellent 16 assists to his name.

3# Tyrone Barnett- Peterborough United

picture: vitalfootball.co.uk

Former Crawley striker, Tyrone Barnett made an immediate impact on the Championship. The youngster managed four goals in 12 appearances for The Posh since joining on loan in January. Having impressed for League 2 side Crawley early in the season, Darren Ferguson quickly snapped the forward up. Barnett had already scored an impressive 15 goals for Crawley this year after joining them last summer from Macclesfield. Although now at Posh, Barnett was recently named in the League Two team of the year. With safety assured for Posh and another season guaranteed in the Championship, Barnett will be looking to continue hitting the net.

4# Matt Ritchie- Swindon TownThe Swindon Town winger has been a big performer for his side this year which has seen them win promotion from League Two. After a successful loan spell at the Wiltshire club last season, Ritchie made the move permanent and has since contributed 13 goals. It has been his assists though that have seen him stand out, contributing 13 to the team. He was named in this year's League Two team of the year alongside team mate Paul Caddis and also collected the League Two player of the year to cap of a superb season.

5# Jordan Rhodes- Huddersfield Town

picture: wikipedia.org

A striker who knows where the net is, Jordan Rhodes has been the star performer in this year's League One. The forward has notched an incredible 38 goals this season which has helped his side Huddersfield Town make a play off spot. Rhodes scored four goals in an amazing 4-4 draw away at Sheffield Wednesday this year as well as achieving an excellent six hat tricks. Rhodes was awarded League One player of the season as well as making the League One team of the year. If Huddersfield fail to gain promotion this year then Rhodes is certain to be snapped up.

FA Cup Quarter Finals: Ones to watch

 

As we get closer to the end of the football season here in England, it also sees the cup competitions getting ever nearer to the final. We saw Liverpool take the first cup of the season with a narrow penalty shoot out win over Championship outfit Cardiff in the Carling Cup final last month. This weekend we see the quarter finals of the FA Cup take place and the opportunity for four teams to play at Wembley in the semi finals. All but one of the teams left in the competition are from the Premier League with Leicester City representing the Football League.

#1 Everton v Sunderland

picture: football365.com

After suffering Merseyside derby disappointment on Tuesday, Everton will want to bounce back and progress in this seasons FA Cup. A home tie will give them some advantage but will face a tough ask as they come up against a fellow Premier League team high on confidence. Sunderland have been in great form of recent under new manager Martin O'Neill. A draw away at rivals Newcastle and then a home win against Liverpool has seen the Black Cats rise up the league table to eighth. O'Neill's side have been in impressive form in this year's FA Cup with wins against Arsenal as well as beating high flying Championship side Middlesbrough. Striker Nicklas Bendtner has two goals in two games and with fellow forward Frazier Campbell returning to impressive form, the pair will cause the Everton back line a fair few problems. David Moyes's Everton have also shown decent form in the league with home wins against Tottenham and Man City which has seen them sit comfortably in the top half of the table. Scoring in his first game for the club, striker Nikica Jelavic will want to continue showing why he was so highly rated when at Rangers. Key players including Royston Drenthe and Leon Osman were rested against Liverpool mid week and will be keen to play an important part in taking their club to the new Wembley for the first time. 

Prediction: Everton 2-1 Sunderland

#2 Chelsea v Leicester

picture: mirrorfootball.co.uk

The only quarter final that doesn't see two Premier League sides against each other. Leicester are the only team left outside the top division and will want to cause a big upset this weekend. Having seen Birmingham City hold Chelsea in the last round of the cup, Leicester will take massive heart and believe they are capable of the same. The Championship side have had a topsy turvy season with the Midlands side currently sitting in eleventh place in the league. Strikers David Nugent and Jermaine Beckford have a combined goal total of 25 goals this season and have struck up an impressive partnership. After an impressive 3-1 triumph over rivals Birmingham in their last game, Leicester will be high in confidence going into their game at Chelsea. Since the departure of manager Andre Villas-Boas, Chelsea have since regained belief that their season isn't finished just yet. An extra time victory over Napoli in the Champions League and a 1-0 home win over Stoke in the league, has seen the London team remain in two cup competitions and still in contention for fourth place. Front man Didier Drogba has been in terrific form of late scoring three goals in the last two games. The return of captain John Terry has sured up the defence and given the team a much needed boost going into a critical stage of the season for the club. 

Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Leicester City

#3 Liverpool v Stoke City

picture: soccertransfers.com

These two Premier League sides will be meeting for the fourth time this season on Sunday afternoon. The two met each other last year in the Carling Cup which saw a Luis Suarez double take the Merseyside club through. But Stoke will go into this tie confident. In the league meeting at Anfield this season, Stoke came away with a well earned goalless draw as well as beating their opponents 1-0 in the league meeting at the Britannia last September. Liverpool had been on a three game losing streak going into the Merseyside game on Tuesday. But a wonderful hat trick from talisman Steven Gerrard saw the reds end their poor run. Kenny Dalglish's side have had a mixed season, drawing nine games at home, dropping points against teams they should be beating. Poor results of late has seen them drop to seventh in the league. However the side have had good runs in cup competitions this season. Carling Cup success against Cardiff last month saw the club win silverware for the first time in six years. This years FA Cup run has seen the side beat rivals Manchester United as well as convincing wins against lower opposition. Stoke City have continued with their love affair of the FA Cup this year with some impressive displays. Runners up in last years competition has spurred the side on to achieve similar success. The game against Liverpool will see the Staffordshire side face Premier League opposition for the first time in this years competition. Exit from the Europa League this year leaves the FA Cup the only distraction from Stoke's average Premier League display this year. But after taking four points from six in the league this year there is no reason why The Potters can't pull of a potential shock. 

Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Stoke City

#4 Tottenham Hotspur v Bolton Wanderers 

picture: goal.com

It has been 21 years since Spurs last won the FA Cup and a quarter final tie at home to fellow Premier League side Bolton, offers them a chance to inch further to a final at Wembley. Playing at home, Spurs are favourites to win the game but after reaching the semi final of the competition last season, Bolton will be no walkovers. Poor performances of late from Spurs, has seen North London rivals Arsenal come within two points of them. After being potential title contenders, Harry Redknapp's side look set for a battle for a Champions League place. Striker Jermaine Defoe looks set to miss out on a starting place on Saturday with fellow forwards Louis Saha and Emmanuel Adebayor set to continue their impressive partnership. Rafael Van Der Vaart has missed a lot of this season through injury but also looks likely to come back into the side that hasn't found scoring goals an issue this year. Spurs needed a replay in the last round to overcome League 1 side Stevenage and will not want another one interrupting their charge for a top four place. Owen Coyle's Bolton were thumped 5-0 in last years semi final against Stoke at Wembley. With another opportunity to play at Wembley in front of them, Bolton will go into Saturday's game knowing they have every chance to progress. Wanderers have struggled to find the net this season with Ivan Klasnic being their top goalscorer with only eight league goals to his name. The loan signing of Arsenal youngster Ryo Miyaichi has given Bolton some much needed pace. Although only 19 years old, Miyaichi showed what quality he has with a superbly taken goal in the last round at Millwall. A 3-0 defeat to Spurs this season at the Lane will not give fans great hope but with Spurs struggling for some form there's every chance Bolton can progress.

Prediction: Spurs 3-1 Bolton