From Hero to Zero: Robin Van Persie

Having seen the likes of Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas leave last season, Arsenal are set to lose their next big star with captain Robin Van Persie announcing that he won't be signing a new contract with the club. The Dutchman scored a mammoth 41 goals in 53 games for club and country last season, as well being chosen for the Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers' player of the year last season.

picture:  smh.com.au

The announcement comes after constant speculation in the media debating whether RVP would commit his future to the club. Van Persie released his statement on his own personal site stating that: 'in this meeting is has again become clear that we in many aspects disagree on the way Arsenal FC should move forward'  Releasing the statement in the way he did, Van Persie has erased the great memories he once gave to his loyal fans.

Despite saying that he is again meeting Wenger and Gazidis, it very much looks like the statement will end his career at the Emirates. The tone of his statement will be what angers fans, having questioned the clubs challenge and aspirations for silverware. It must be said though, that Arsenal have not won any silverware in the last seven years. However without the goals of RVP, this wait could easily continue.

As well as the lack of silverware, the number of high profile signings the club has made over recent years has been minimal. Aside from Mikel Arteta for £10million last August, Wenger has shyed away from spending big money. However already this season, the Frenchman has spent big bringing in Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud, who have both arrived under double figure fees. However with only the likes of Chamakh, Park and Gervinho remaining with the new arrivals, losing Van Persie would be a huge blow to Arsenal's front line. 

picture: thesun.co.uk

Having stuck by Van Persie during the years the Dutchman was injured, Wenger's next move will have to be looking to sell the Dutchman unless RVP makes a dramatic U-turn. This possibility can't be ruled out having seen both Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard remain at their current clubs having made similar announcements in the past.
So where does Van the man go from here? There are a number of potential suitors for the Dutchman, with Manchester City in the driving seat. The spending power of City will wave off any other potential suitors and the fact they go into the new season as current champions will make them more appealing. Former team mates Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy were lured from the Emirates last season and having seen them pick up winners medals, Van Persie would be temepted to join them if the offer came around. As well as City, it has been known that Sir Alex Ferguson is an admirer of RVP, and with Owen gone and Berbatov likely to leave, the addition to United's front line of Van Persie would certainly add more goals to their team. 

Juventus recently offered £8million for Van Persie but if they are to capture the Dutchman, they will be expected to fork out a lot more than that. Real Madrid and Barcelona are also potential suitors, but with David Villa set to return, and the goals of Leo Messi, the Catalans could do without Van Persie. Madrid could be a good move for both parties, but again with Ronaldo and Benzema both firing in goals, like Barca, the need for Van Persie isn't that necessary. 

If Captain Vantastic does move on, then he will be only remembered for his statement and not the wonderful contribution to the London club. The way he went about it was wrong and had he handed in a transfer request, or allowed the club to make a statement, then the reaction may have been completely different. But instead, Arsenal will have to sell Van Persie this summer as long as he doesn't change his mind, to make sure they receive a big fee for the striker, and not let him see out his contract allowing him to leave on a free. 

England: Euro 2012 review

So just like in previous major tournaments, England once again fell at the quarter final stage on penalties. Despite there being such little expectation before the tournament, every England fan wanted and hoped that they would break the 'hoodoo' of the quarter finals and progress to a semi for the first time since Euro 96. Unfortunately for them, Italy ended England's campaign and sent them home wondering what would have been.

However looking back at England's tournament, there is plenty to take to be positive about. Firstly the group that we progressed from was never as easy as anyone would it out to be. Going into the tournament, France were on a 21 game unbeaten run and looked a real force in their pre tournament friendlies. With the likes of Frank Ribery, Karim Benzema and Samir Nasri all playing to their best, it looked unlikely that England would finish above them.

picture: cantheyscore.com

With Sweden and Ukraine also in the group, England were facing two teams they had struggled to beat in previous encounters. Despite beating them in a friendly in November, England had never beaten Sweden in a competitive game having drawn their last encounter with them in World Cup 2006. The last time England faced Ukraine was in the qualifying group for the World Cup two years ago. Having beaten them narrowly at Wembley 2-1, England's last group game was away in Ukraine and were beaten 1-0 thanks to a goal from Sergiy Nazarenko.

Having only been appointed months before the tournament, Roy Hodgson had very little time to select and prepare a squad to take to the Championships. Despite the limited time, Hodgson gathered a squad full of youth and experience. Dropping Rio Ferdinand out of the squad, caused a massive uproar with both the media and the fans and threw questions into whether Hodgson was right in doing it. The selection of Alex Oxlade Chamberlain though was one that was praised and welcomed by many. Hodgson was not helped with his preparation with the timing of injuries to certain players. Both Gareth Barry and Frank Lampard were ruled out of the tournament before a ball was kicked, while central defender Gary Cahill joined them after suffering a jaw injury during the friendly with Belgium.

Having lost such experience in the centre of midfield, Jordan Henderson and Phil Jagielka were brought in as replacements, questioning whether England's midfield was good enough to cope with their opponents further on in the tournament. With both Steven Gerrard and Scott Parker ageing and injury prone, the lack of experience as back up was something  that caused serious concern.

picture: mirror.co.uk

Having won both their pre tournament friendlies 1-0 against Norway and Belgium, England went into their tournament with no pressure and nothing to lose. The opening game against France ended a 1-1 draw and meant a good start to their campaign. England's second game ended in a 3-2 win over Sweden and by far their best performance under Hodgson. Having gone behind early on in the second half, Hodgson's substitutions gave England more of an attacking threat and resulted in the two goals that won them the game. Needing only a point from their last game to qualify, England battled hard to a 1-0 win thanks to a Rooney header. Despite winning the game, England struggled to create other chances and were penned in their half for much of the game.

The inability to hold onto possession for lengths of the game and the lack of chances created was something that needed to improve if they were to make any progress in the competition. Having topped their group, England faced the task of Italy in their quarter final avoiding the much fancied Spain. At this point expectation back home was a lot higher and a place in the semi finals was a realistic possibility. However this possibility quickly disappeared as England lacked a serious attacking threat throughout much of the game leaving Italy to dominate with Andrea Pirlo dominating the midfield. Having just about got away with similar performaces in the group games, England battled through 120 minutes of the game before falling to the lottery of a penalty shootout. It was fair on Italy who deserved to go through, but for England, the lack of chances and the inability to keep the ball in the game ended their hopes of progressing to the semis.

Despite all this, the progress England made under Hodgson in a short period of time, is something to be proud of. The spirit within the camp was a lot better than in previous tournaments and the inclusion of some promising youngsters in the squad is one step in building a team for the future. Though if England are to compete and cope with the likes of Spain, Germany and Netherlands, then there is a lot of hard work to be done if we are to see an England captain lifting either a World Cup or a European Championship in the near future. 

Euro 2012 result: England 0-0 Italy AET (2-4 pens)

England suffered penalty heart ache in a major tournament once again as they were beaten by Italy in their Euro 2012 quarter final game in Kiev.

England were second best through much of the tie which saw Ashley Young and Ashley Cole miss the decisive penalties resulting in the Italians progressing to the semi finals where they will face Germany.

Despite going out, Roy Hodgson and his team will take great credit in their defensive displays which saw them frustrate the Italians for 120 minutes.

For the opening 20 minutes of the first half, early chances were exchanged for both sides. It was almost a terrible start for England as De Rossi unleashed a swerving left footed half volley which cannoned off Hart's post. Moments later it was England who almost took the lead with Glen Johnson being denied by Gigi Buffon's strong left hand.

Good combination play between, Johnson, Ashley Young and James Milner, saw the Man City midfielder's cross arrive at Johnson's feet who did well to scoop an effort from six yards, only to see Buffon deny him a goal.

picture: ctpost.com

The opening period of the game was by far the best display by England in the tournament and they almost went ahead when Rooney headed over from a well directed cross from Glen Johnson.

With the pressure coming from England, Italy started to work their way into the game with Andrea Pirlo pulling the strings from midfield. Pirlo's ball over the top was collected by Mario Balotelli whose attempted chip was well blocked by the on rushing John Terry.

Pirlo was once again involved in Italy's next chance of the half. The Juventus man sent over a delicious far post ball which was headed across goal by Cassano. With Balotelli waiting for an easy tap in, he could only watch as he was denied by his club team mate Joleon Lescott who cleared the ball over his own crossbar.

Despite losing control of the game, England created one more chance before the break. Having played with each other all season at Old Trafford, the combination of Welbeck and Rooney engineered a chance for Welbeck who could only side foot his shot wide, when really he should have done better.

Italy continued their dominance after the break with Pirlo continually bossing the midfield. Having hit the post in the second half, De Rossi tried his luck again from range. This time Hart palmed it straight to Balotelli, whose shot was saved by the legs of the goal keeper. With the goal gaping, Montolivo managed to hit the second rebound over the bar.

England once again escaped going behind as De Rossi shot wide from the easiest of positions after he had been set up by the head of Marchisio.

With the team tiring and pinned back into their own half, Hodgson made the first move bringing Theo Walcott and Andy Carroll on for Milner and Welbeck. Both were involved in England's notable chance in the second half when Ashley Young's goal bound shot was blocked by the Italian defence out for a corner.

With extra time looming, Italy brought on ex West Ham man Alessandro Diamanti who was denied by a sharp stop from Joe Hart. Glen Johnson did well to deny sub Nocerino when his goal bound shot looked set for the net. At the other end, Wayne Rooney nearly stole it for England as his overhead kick went miles over the bar after Andy Carroll had nodded the ball back across goal.

With extra time to be played, England looked shattered and happy to settle for a penalty shoot out. Scott Parker was replaced by Jordan Henderson to freshen up the midfield early on in the first half.

picture: dailymail.co.uk

With eleven players behind the ball, England escaped once again as a Diamanti cross come shot evaded everyone and struck the base of the post with Joe Hart beaten. Nocerino had a goal rightly ruled out in the second half of extra time for offside which meant the tie would be decided on a penalty shoot out.

With England ahead after the first two penalties, belief started to build that we would make the semis. But after a nonchalant chip from Pirlo to draw the Italians level, Ashley Young saw his penalty smack the bar. Nocerino converted Italy's fourth penalty meaning Ashley Cole needed to score England's next penalty.

Having converted his spot kick in the recent Champions League final, Cole could only stare in disbelief as his kick was saved by Buffon. Up stepped Diamanti knowing if he found the net, he would knock England out. Sending Hart the wrong way, Diamanti ran with his team mates to celebrate the deserved win with Buffon and a semi final tie with Germany on Thursday.

For England, the same old story of losing in a quarter final on penalties continues, but with little expectation before the tournament, England have made some progress. Having only had little time to prepare before the tournament, Roy Hodgson will have great hope for the future of the England team.

Teams:
England: Hart, G.Johnson, Terry, Lescott, A.Cole, Gerrard, Parker (Henderson 94') Milner (Walcott 60') Young, Rooney, Welbeck (Carroll 61')

Italy: Buffon, Balzaretti, Abate (Maggio 90') Barzagli, Bonucci, Marchisio, De Rossi (Nocerino 80') Montolivo, Pirlo, Balotelli, Cassano (Diamanti 78')

Referee: Pedro Proenca (Portugal)

Euro 2012 result: England 1-0 Ukraine

England progressed through to the quarter finals of Euro 2012 last night, beating tournament hosts Ukraine 1-0, thanks to a Wayne Rooney header early in the second half.

The win ensured England finished the group as winners and will face Italy in their quarter final on Sunday. Roy Hodgson's men win meant they finished ahead of France after they were beaten by Sweden in their final group game.

picture: nationalturk.com

The game was marred by controversy though as Ukraine were denied a certain goal when striker Marko Devic's shot looked to have crossed the line before John Terry managed to hack the ball clear.

It was Ukraine that started the better of the sides pinning England in their own half for much of the first period. The first opportunity of the games fell the host's way with Denys Garmash firing a long range effort over the crossbar. The chances didn't stop their for Ukraine as Devic's strike was excellently blocked by Scott Parker.

Devic was involved in much of Ukraine's attacks and was involved in setting up the impressive Andriy Yarmolenko whose shot was comfortably dealt with by Joe Hart.

The inclusion of Wayne Rooney was the only change made by Roy Hodgson, and the Manchester United striker struggled to get into the early stages of the game with poor touches and loose passes. 

England's best chance of the half fell to the striker, glancing a header wide from an Ashley Young cross when really Rooney should have done much better.

Ukraine continued their dominance of the half when Oleh Gusev took advantage of Ashley Young's misjudgement of a cross field pass, before shooting narrowly over Joe Hart's bar.

Despite being under pressure for the majority of the first half, it was England and Rooney that took advantage of some sloppy Ukrainian defending to take the lead. After seeing his corner cleared, captain Steven Gerrard received the ball wide from Glen Johnson. The Liverpool captain skipped past one challenge and after seeing the cross deflected twice, Wayne Rooney lurked at the back post to score quite possibly his easiest goal for England.

The goal struck life into both sets of players with Ukraine needing a win to have any chance of qualification. Breaking from a corner Gerrard played Rooney in on goal who could only hold the ball up and set up Milner whose poor shot was easily blocked by the Ukrainian defence.

The chances were coming thick and fast in the game with Artem Milevskiy heading over from a quickly taken corner when really he should have done a lot better. Joe Hart palmed a dangerous looking Gusev cross over the bar before the games controversial talking point took place.

picture: sportige.com

A long punt forward by the Ukraine defence fell nicely for the offside looking Milevskiy who played in the on rushing Marko Devic. The strikers shot was half saved by Joe Hart's foot who could only watch as John Terry heroically volleyed the ball clear from beneath the bar. To the naked eye the ball didn't look over but TV replays clearly showed the ball was over the line. Despite an assistant referee and an additional assistant, the goal was not given, giving more reason for the introduction of goal line technology.

With the whole of Ukraine aggrieved with the decsion, Scott Parker broke forward only to be brought down on the edge of the box. The resulting free kick though was narrowly stuck wide by Rooney.

Joe Hart was once again showed why he is so vital to England, as he magnificently palmed away a swerving 30 yard effort from Konoplienka with Joleon Lescott on hand to clear away the loose ball.

Changes were made by both teams with Hodgson introducing Walcott, Oxlade- Chamberlain and Andy Carroll with Ukraine's talisman Andriy Shevchenko brought on for his final international appearance. Despite the ex-Chelsea's heroics in the country's opening group game against Sweden, he couldn't inspire a comeback this time.

Chances were exchanged late on with Ashley Cole nearly doubling England's lead late on after his shot was excellently palmed away by the Ukrainian goalkeeper. Yarmolenko shot wide for Ukraine when well placed outside the box.

England's solid defensive unit saw the game through and will now face Italy in their quarter final on Sunday in Kiev. With France losing to Sweden in the other group game, England avoid Spain and from no expectation at the beginning of the tournament, England fans are starting to believe.

Teams:
England: Hart, G.Johnson, Terry, Lescott, A.Cole, Gerrard, Parker, Milner (Walcott 69') Young, Rooney (Oxlade Chamberlain 87'), Welbeck (Carroll 82')

Ukraine: Pyatov, Selin, Khacheridi, Rakitskiy, Tymoshchuk, Garmash (Nazarenko 78') Gusev, Yarmolenko, Konoplienka, Milevskiy (Butko 77'), Devic (Shevchenko 70')


Referee: Viktor Kassai (Hungary)

Euro 2012 result: England 3-2 Sweden

England came back from a goal down to secure a memorable comeback in their second group game against Sweden in Kiev.

Andy Carroll opened the scoring for England with an excellent header before Swedish defender Olof Mellberg scored two quick fire goals to give Sweden the lead. Substitute Theo Walcott inspired the fightback with a long range strike before crossing for Danny Welbeck to complete an extraordinary comeback.

The victory comes as a first competitive win against the Swedes and leaves Roy Hodgson's men only needing a point to qualify for the quarter finals.

picture: news.sky.com

It was England that started the better of the sides with Swedish keeper Andreas Isaksson saving a Scott Parker shot after the midfielder was set up by Welbeck. It was Welbeck who had the next chance guiding a James Milner cross wide of the post with his head.

Just like the game against France, it was England that opened the scoring with an excellent goal. Having been  brought in the team in place of Oxlade-Chamberlain. Andy Carroll bagged his first competitive goal for England heading in a world class cross from captain Steven Gerrard.

Sweden offered very little in the first half with Seb Larsson and Zlatan Ibrahimovich bringing comfortable saves out of Joe Hart. Ashley Young had England's next notable chance of the half dragging a shot into the side netting, when crossing the ball across the box looked a better option for the Man United winger.

Having started the first half well, it was the complete opposite in the second. England found themselves 2-1 down after only 15 minutes of the second half. Hero in the first half, Andy Carroll needlessly conceded a free kick 30 yards from goal. Hitting the wall with his first attempt, Ibrahimovich's second effort fell to the feet of Olof Mellberg. The centre back's shot was brilliantly saved by Hart who could only watch in despair as the ball ricocheted off Glen Johnson's stomach and into the net off the post.

It got a lot worse for England as ten minutes later, Mellberg was once again involved, heading in unmarked past Joe Hart to give Sweden a shock lead. The once solid defensive unit we were so used to before the tournament was no where to be seen as the former Aston Villa centre back gave England a mountain to climb.

Within moments of going behind, Hodgson brought Walcott on for the weary James Milner who had offered little in attack throughout the game. England had to score quickly if they were to mount a comeback to secure the much needed win. The equaliser came so close when John Terry was denied by a superb save from Isaksson at point blank range.

But from the resulting corner, super sub Walcott received the ball 25 yards out and struck a superb effort down the centre of the goal leaving Isaksson stranded. This was Walcott's fourth competitive goal for England having scored the previous three in his hat trick against Croatia four years ago.

picture: uk.eurosport.yahoo.com

With many England teams before, we would have seen them sit back and take a draw. But having seen group rivals France earlier win their game against Ukraine, England needed to take three points. Joe Hart was once again called upon turning round an Ibrahimovich shot past the post before England completed a remarkable comeback. Arsenal man Walcott drove to the byline cutting back a cross to which Danny Welbeck turned home brilliantly.

With ten minutes left to hold on, England dug deep to prevent their opponents from taking anything from the game. It could have been four near the end when Walcott crossed for Gerrard, whose volley was excellently saved by Isaksson.

The win leaves England within a point of the quarter finals, and leaves boss Hodgson with decisions to make over who will start up front with talisman Rooney available after serving his suspension.

Teams:
England: Hart, G.Johnson, Terry, Lescott, A.Cole, Gerrard, Parker, Milner (Walcott 60') Young, Carroll, Welbeck (Oxlade- Chamberlain 89')

Sweden: Isaksson, Mellberg, Granqvist (Lustig 66') M.Olsson, Olsson, Elm (Wilhelmsson 81') Larsson, Svensson, Kallstrom, Ibrahimovich, Elmander (Rosenberg 79')
Referee: Damir Skomina (Slovenia)

Capital One Cup: First Round Draw

With the fixtures for the new season set to be announced next week, the newly named Capital One Cup first round draw has taken place today. Formerly known as the Carling Cup, the competition was renamed after the company Capital One, a credit card company, agreed a four year sponsorship deal with the Football League.

picture: blogs.bettor.com

The draw has thrown up some excellent ties which sees relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers host League Two side Aldershot Town. Blackburn and Bolton, who were also relegated alongside Wolves last season, will enter the competition in round two. Other ties that catch the eye include Fleetwood Town, who were promoted from the Conference last season, host Championship side Nottingham Forest. York City, who also gained promotion to the Football League face a trip to Doncaster Rovers. Runners up in last season's final Cardiff City, start with an away trip to Northampton Town. League Two side Barnet face a tricky tie with an away tie to Championship Birmingham City who reached the Championship play off's last season.

Having suffered poor league form last season, it was Liverpool who claimed victory in last seasons competition. The Premier League side needed extra time and penalties to overcome their Championship opponents Cardiff City. Winger Joe Mason opened the scoring for the Bluebirds before Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel equalised with a scrambled effort.

Dirk Kuyt thought he had won the game in extra time for Liverpool, after scoring an excellent goal from 25 yards. But after indecision in the Liverpool box, Cardiff defender Ben Turner poked home to take the final to a penalty shoot-out. It was the Premier League side though, that came out victors winning 3-2 in the shoot-out.

Teams from the Championship to League Two will compete from the first round with 13 Premier League teams coming into the competition in the second round. The remaining seven teams are all competing in Europe this season and will therefore not enter the competition until the third round to avoid fixture congestion.

Fixtures below:

Derby County v Scunthorpe United
Rochdale v Barnsley
Port Vale v Burnley
Notts County v Bradford City
Hull City v Rotherham United
Fleetwood Town v Nottingham Forest
Carlisle United v Accrington Stanley
Doncaster Rovers v York City
Crewe Alexandra v Hartlepool United
Bury v Middlesbrough
Chesterfield v Tranmere Rovers
Sheffield United v Burton Albion
Blackpool v Morecambe
Leeds United v Shrewsbury Town
Preston North End v Huddersfield Town
Oldham Athletic v Sheffield Wednesday
Cheltenham Town v Milton Keynes Dons
Ipswich Town v Bristol Rovers
Stevenage v AFC Wimbledon
Exeter City v Crystal Palace
Yeovil Town v Colchester United
Birmingham City v Barnet
Bristol City v Gillingham
Northampton Town v Cardiff City
Plymouth Argyle v Portsmouth
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Aldershot Town 
Walsall v Brentford
Millwall v Crawley Town 
Torquay United v Leicester City 
Dagenham & Redbridge v Coventry City 
Peterborough United v Southend United
Swindon Town v Brighton & Hove Albion 
Watford v Wycombe Wanderers 
Charlton Athletic v Leyton Orient 
Oxford United v AFC Bournemouth

The first round fixtures will take place the week beginning August 13th. The final will be held at Wembley on 24th February next year.

Euro 2012 result: England 1-1 France

Joleon Lescott scored his first international goal in England's 1-1 draw with France in Donetsk. The Manchester City defender nodded in Steven Gerrard's free kick to give them the lead before Samir Nasri levelled the scores with a low drive.

England started the better of the half with James Milner spurning a good chance after rounding French keeper Hugo Lloris, after an excellent through pass from Ashley Young. Moments later Joe Hart did well to get down to his left to stop a Yohan Cabaye effort from distance.

picture: sports.yahoo.com

It was England though that opened the scoring with central defender Joleon Lescott heading in Steven Gerrard's set piece. Lescott nodded in past keeper Lloris after getting the better of Alou Diarra.

Arsenal winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was given his second start in two games after impressing in training and against Belgium in the recent friendly. It was Chamberlain though that conceded a free kick on France's right moments later which gave France their next opportunity. Samir Nasri's free kick was headed towards goal by Diarra, who was brilliantly denied by Joe Hart and the midfielder then headed the rebound wide after Ribery had kept the ball alive.

It didn't take France long after to equalise with Manchester City winger Samir Nasri beating his club team mate Joe Hart from 25 yards striking the ball into the corner of the net. The goal came after good work on the left between Ribery and Patrice Evra.

The goal spurned life into the French who came close again with the impressive right back Mathieu Debuchy being denied at the near post by the legs of Hart.

The second half was a much different story with chances coming very rarely. Joe Hart was once again called upon saving low down to a long range strike from Karim Benzema. The Man City number one did well again after a short back pass from James Milner let in Samir Nasri who couldn't take advantage.

England's strong defensive unit stood firm throughout the remaining part of the second half with Scott Parker and Danny Welbeck doing well do block more long range efforts from the French.

picture: soccerway.com

Changes were made by both sides with Jordan Henderson replacing the tireless Scott Parker and Jermain Defoe coming on for young winger Chamberlain, while Hatem Ben Arfa and Marvin Martin were brought on by French boss Laurent Blanc.

Phillippe Mexes did well to cut out a James Milner cross with Danny Welbeck lurking behind, with this being the only attacking threat offered by England during the second half.

Steven Gerrard headed a curling Benzema effort out for a corner, and the Real Madrid striker was involved again soon after seeing his long range shot comfortably dealth with by Hart. Theo Walcott was introduced late on and despite some bizarre refereeing by Italian Nicola Rizzoli, who let a number of obvious fouls go, neither side could nick a winner.

Both teams will be content with a draw, but England may be concerned with their lack of being able to keep posseion for long periods of the game. France take on Ukraine on Friday whilst England will play their second group game against Sweden.

Teams:

England: Hart, G.Johnson, Terry, Lescott, A.Cole, Oxlade Chamberlain (Defoe 77') Gerrard, Parker (Henderson 78') Milner, Young, Welbeck (Walcott 89')

France: Lloris, Debuchy, Evra, Mexes, Rami, Malouda (Martin 86') Diarra, Cabaye (Ben Arfa 86') Ribery, Benzema, Nasri

Referee: Nicola Rizzoli (Italy)

England: Euro 2012 preview

The football season is over, the squad has been selected and the pre tournament friendlies have been played. In  a few days time, Euro 2012 starts seeing 16 teams battling it out to be crowned European champions. Having missed out four years ago in Austria and Switzerland, England booked their place in this years Championships confidently topping their qualifying group. Under the management of Fabio Capello, the Three Lions cruised past their group opponents winning five of their nine games, and drawing three in their eight game campaign.

picture: thesoccerroom.com

Since then, many changes have been made in the England camp, with a new manager and captain installed. After much debate of who would replace Capello, Roy Hodgson was revealed to be the man to guide England in the Euros and beyond. With a court case hovering heavily over his head, John Terry was stripped of the England captaincy, giving Liverpool talisman Steven Gerrard the chance to captain England in the upcoming Championships. The midfielder will have to perform to his greatest if England are to come out of the tournament successful.

For the first time in a while, England go into the tournament with the pressure off and expectation low. Hodgson's squad selection caused raised eyebrows here and there after leaving Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand out. Having seen Gary Cahill ruled out of the tournament, Liverpool defender Martin Kelly was drafted in, suggesting a future for England is potentially disappearing for Ferdinand. Alongside Cahill, midfielders Gareth Barry and Frank Lampard are also out through injuries meaning heavy responsibility sits on Steven Gerrard and Scott Parker to pull the stings in midfield.

picture: pictures.metro.co.uk

Since taking charge, Hodgson has won both of his games beating Norway and Belgium 1-0 in England's two pre tournament friendlies. The former West Brom boss has clearly organised the team the way he wants with England looking very solid defensively. Both the goals scored in these friendlies came from a counter attack which looks like a key tactic for England going into the tournament. With the absence of Wayne Rooney in the first two group games, Hodgson looks set to continue playing the one striker up front and piling the midfield with attacking flare. The main decision he will have to make come Monday will be whether he plays Danny Welbeck or Andy Carroll. Both strikers impressed in their respective games, linking with Ashley Young particularly well. It will be Welbeck though that looks set to get the nod after scoring a wonderful goal against Belgium at the weekend.

Opponents come in the form of France, Sweden and Ukraine with the French the first group game next Monday. The last time England faced them in a major tournament was back in 2004 where two late Zinedine Zidane goals clinched victory. Having failed to pass the group stage at the World Cup two years ago, the French have improved significantly under boss Laurent Blanc. France's front four will be the danger for England, with Ribery, Nasri, Benzema and Ben Arfa leading the line. Benzema has had an excellent season for Real Madrid and is certain to continue this from going into the Championships. Sweden and Ukraine are the other teams England will have to beat if they are to reach the quarter finals.

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A 1-0 friendly win at Wembley over Sweden last November was the last fixture between the sides. The Swedes will be difficult opponents for England and will look likely candidates alongside England to reach the quarters with France. Going by the form book, Ukraine should be a doddle for England. The teams last met in 2009 where the Ukrainians beat England 1-0 in Kiev. The game turned out to be meaningless for England as they has already secured qualification to the World Cup. England had beaten Ukraine 2-1 at Wembley months before. Co-hosting the tournament, Ukraine automatically qualified for the tournament. Without a qualifying campaign to play, Ukraine have prepared with a whole host of friendlies. Results though have been generally disappointing. Striker Andriy Shevchenko will lead his country for probably the last time with persistent back problems meaning the former Chelsea striker will have to call it a day on his playing career after the tournament.

With expectation low, England can go into the tournament with nothing to lose. Defensively, England have looked fairly solid and having kept two clean sheets in the recent friendlies, teams may struggle to break them down. In goal, England may have the best keeper in the world at the moment. Joe Hart has been excellent for Manchester City this season, and with his presence and confidence in goal, we go into a tournament with a guaranteed first choice keeper. Hitting teams on the counter attack may be the best bet for England going into the tournament and if it means winning games 1-0 each time then no-one will complain. Anything past the group stages will be seen as a success for the team and something for Hodgson to build on for the up and coming World Cup qualifying campaign. It's time to get behind the team, support the boys and hope that maybe, just maybe we can pull it off!

FA Cup Fourth Round: Ones to watch

We see the fourth round of the FA Cup take place this weekend and after some top quality ties in the last round we are sure to see more the cup throw up more shocks and controversy this weekend. Below are the stnad out fixtures to look out for, for the fourth round.

#1 Liverpool v Manchester Utd

picture: dailymail.co.uk

Two giants in English football come head to head in the FA Cup once again. Man Utd came out 1-0 winners when the sides met last season in the third round at Old Trafford. An early penalty from Ryan Giggs ensured progress for the Red Devils in what was Kenny Dalglish's first game back as Liverpool manager. The last time these two met at Anfield in the cup was in 2006  in the fifth round when a Peter Crouch header was enough to take them through and eventually win the competition. Liverpool will take great confidence into the game after a hard fought draw against Manchester City in the week which took them through to the Carling Cup final. Craig Bellamy has been in fantastic form for the club and will want to continue that against an injury stricken United side. Man Utd have had terrible luck this season with injuries as seen against Arsenal when several players picked up knocks. But after beating rivals Manchester City in the last round, they won't fear anyone and will be determined to progress to the fifth round.

Prediction: Liverpool 1-0 Man Utd

#2 QPR v Chelsea

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Another all Premier League tie in the fourth round of the cup. These teams meet for the first time since the allegation made against Chelsea captain John Terry for racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand. Terry will be sure to receive abuse from the Rangers fans but this won't affect the England captain as he will want to guide his team to glory in this seasons competition. Striker Fernando Torres has gone more than 15 hours of football now without finding the net. With only 3 competitive goals for the club, the Spanish striker will want to start scoring especially with the Euro Championships only months away and his place in the national side at stake. Rangers have started to look like the side we thought they were. Mark Hughes has given the London side a big lift, with two wins in his opening three games, the Welshman will want his side to continue his good start with victory over their London rivals. 

Prediction: QPR 1-2 Chelsea

#3 Leicester City v Swindon Town

Swindon Town are the lowest ranked team left in the competition, and with a third round victory over Premier League side Wigan, they won't want their run to end just yet. They come up against a strong Leicester side who have only lost one game in their last seven in all competitions. Nigel Pearson's side disposed of neighbours Nottingham Forest in the last round and after beating Southampton away from home on Monday, the Foxes will be full of confidence towards this tie. Paolo Di Canio's Swindon side currently sit fourth in League 2 and are unbeaten in their last six games in all competitions. After beating Wigan in the last round, the Robins won't fear their opponents and will go into the game knowing they can progress further.

Prediction: Leicester 2-1 Swindon

#4 Brighton v Newcastle Utd

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It's the Seagulls against the Magpies in this fourth round tie and the latter will definitely find their opponents tough to beat. Brighton needed a replay and a penalty shoot out in the last round to beat conference side Wrexham. The Premier League side have had quite a season and progress in this competition will be definitely in the mind of manager Alan Pardew. His side are still without striker Demba Ba but the form of midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa has been pleasing to the eye of the Geordie fans. Brighton have had another good season with Gus Puyet's side currently sitting tenth in the Championship and are on a five game unbeaten run. Striker Craig Mackail Smith last goal came at the end of November so the former Posh man will want to return back to finding the net. A game Newcastle will find tough but with the experience of their team and Premiership quality, the fifth round beckons for them.

Prediction: Brighton 0-2  Newcastle Utd

#5 Sheffield Utd v Birmingham City

Definitely one of the ties to keep a look out for. Sheffield United may be a division below the Blues, but the League 1 side will have a lot of belief they can win the game and progress to the fifth round. City beat rivals Wolves in the last round and are on an eight game unbeaten run, scoring 12 goals in their last four games. Striker Marlon King has been regularly finding the net for the Midlands side and will be looking to continue his goalscoring this weekend.  United have been hot on the heels of League 1 leaders Charlton all season and currently sit in third place. Veteran striker James Beattie has recently signed a new deal with the club and with the his experience and leading of the line will be critical for his side. Scoring has not been a problem for Danny Wilson's team this season with the away defeat to Charlton at the weekend was the first time not scoring since the beginning of October. A tough game for the Championship side especially as their record away from home this season has been poor, something Sheffield United will pick up on. 

Prediction: Sheffield Utd 2-2 Birmingham City

Other fourth round ties:

Arsenal v Aston Villa (Predcition: 2-0)

Bolton v Swansea (Prediction: 1-2)

Derby County v Stoke (Prediction: 1-1)

Watford v Tottenham (Prediction: 0-3)

Hull City v Crawley Town (Prediction: 2-1) 

Sunderland v Middlesbrough (Prediction: 2-1)

Blackpool v Sheffield Wednesday (Prediction: 2-1)

Millwall v Southampton (Prediction: 1-3)

West Brom v Norwich (Prediction: 1-2)

Stevenage v Notts County (Prediction: 1-1)

Everton v Fulham (Prediction: 1-1)

FA Cup Third Round: Ones to watch

This coming weekend sees the third round of the FA Cup take place. There are always mouth watering ties and this years fixtures definitely don't disappoint. Below are the key games that you should look out for this weekend.

#1 Manchester City v Manchester United

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The biggest tie of the round. The top two teams in the Premier League at the moment and here another chance to view them battling it out. We all know what happened the last time these two met, City demolishing United at Old Trafford in the league 6-1. A repeat of that memorable day is highly unlikely but expect goals, drama and most probably controversy. With Wednesday's Carling Cup semi final against Liverpool in mind, Roberto Mancini may field a second string team.(if you can call it that) giving the likes of Balotelli and Dzeko a run out. After two successive defeats in the league, United are expected to respond and show why they are current champions of the league. Sir Alex shall field a strong line up and will want to win against their rivals and progress in this historic competition

Prediction: City 2-1 United

#2 MK Dons v QPR

League 1 versus the Premier League, but a game that has upset written all over it. MK Dons currently sit in the play off zone of League 1 in relatively good form and having disposed of Nantwich 6-0 in the last round, the team from Buckinghamshire will want to continue their run in the cup. Striker Charlie McDonald has scored 6 in his last 9 appearances and will be sure to continue his good scoring form. Neil Warnock's QPR are in poor form, with no win in eight, this game couldn't have come at a worse time. Captain Joey Barton will be missing for Rangers through suspension and will be hopeful that misfiring strikers Jay Bothroyd and DJ Campbell will be able to make an impact. 

Prediction: MK Dons 2-2 QPR

#3 Peterborough Utd v Sunderland
Another potential upset on the cards. Championship club Peterborough United currently sit comfortably in mid table and are five games unbeaten. Darren Ferguson's men are a hard team to push over at home and Sunderland will have to play to their best to overcome The Posh. Talisman George Boyd will catch your eye, slick turns and an eye for goal, the midfielder will be the one to watch. Sunderland have been rejuvenated under the new management under Martin O'Neill. A home win against Manchester City and a thumping 4-1 win away at Wigan has seen the Black Cats go four unbeaten in the league. London Road always promises goals and this game won't disappoint. With the TV cameras there on Sunday, Posh will want to impress and show their quality against a decent Premier League side.

Prediction:  Posh 1-2 Sunderland

#4 Arsenal v Leeds Utd

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These two teams met at the same stage last season drawing 1-1 at the Emirates with the Gunners winning the replay 3-1 at Elland Road. Arsenal are currently in excellent form in the league with star man Robin Van Persie continually firing in goals. Club legend and idol Thierry Henry is expected to play a part in this fixture as he starts his two month loan at the club. Leeds a club Henry has an excellent record against. He has scored 11 goals in 11 games against United and will want to continue this record. Leeds United currently sit outside the play offs in the championship and will find Monday's game at the Emirates tough. After lengthy injuries  to key players Patrick Kisnorbo and Robert Snodgrass, Leeds will rely on the impressive goalscoring Ross McCormack who has netted 11 league goals this season. 

Prediction : Arsenal 3-1 Leeds Utd

#5 Everton v Tamworth

This game is what the FA Cup is about, a big Premier League team facing a minnow from a lower division. Although the result is fairly obvious, Tamworth will take a big following to Goodison and the team will sure give it a go and show that they are about. With the return of American Landan Donovan, fans will be pleased to see his return and hope that he can help the team's goalscoring alongside the ever present Louis Saha. Tamworth are currently mid table in the Conference and definitely enjoy their big moment in front of 30,000 fans. The club know as 'The Lambs' are taking more than 5,000 fans giving them a memorable day out and whatever the result it will gain a place in the club's history. 

Prediction: Everton 4-0 Tamworth

#6 Swindon Town v Wigan Athletic

Another tie that offers a possible banana skin for a Premier League side. Wigan Athletic currently sit second bottom in the Premier League and an away trip to high flying Swindon will be tough for the Lactics. After disposing of League 1 giants Huddersfield Town 4-1 in the last round, Paolo Di Canio's team will fear no-one and go into the weekend's game with a lot of confidence. Wigan were knocked out of the cup two years ago to Notts County in the fourth round so the Lancashire club will need to be careful of another cup defeat to lower league opposition. The Premier League side haven't won in five league games so Roberto Martinez will want a solid display from his side.

Swindon Town 1-2 Wigan Athletic

#7 Fleetwood Town v Blackpool

Fleetwood Town have been the surprise team in the competition so far. Beating League 1 opposition in both rounds so far, the conference team will go into their third round tie knowing anything is possible. They currently sit second in the conference and are currently 11 games unbeaten in the league with a 6-0 drubbing of Southport there latest victory. Blackpool are sitting just outside the Championship play off positions and after beating high flyers Middlesbrough 3-0 on Monday, Ian Holloway's side will be full of confidence. Blackpool chairman was quoted this week saying that this tie means little to him but for the Fleetwood Town this will be one of their biggest games in their history

Prediction Fleetwood Town 1-3 Blackpool

#8 Birmingham City v Wolves

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A tasty Midland derby will give great viewing for football fans. The last time these two met in this competition was three years ago when Wolves won 2-0 at St Andrews. Captain of Wolves Roger Johnson will get an interesting reaction as he returns to his former club where he led the Blues to Carling Cup success last year against Arsenal. The Championship club recently were eliminated from the Europa League and manager Chris Hughton will want to progress in this historic competition. Wolves are in terrible form and haven't won in six league and cup games. The form though of striker Steven Fletcher will give fans hope he can help the midland club get to the fourth round and help the club gather some momentum and form. This game will come with tasty tackles, cards a plenty and goals, not one to miss.

Prediction: Birmingham 2-2 Wolves

...and the rest           

Tottenham v Cheltenham Town   Prediction: 4-0             
Barnsley v Swansea   Prediction: 1-2

Sheffield Wed v West Ham     Prediction 2-3                   
Brighton v Wrexham  Prediction: 3-1

Fulham v Charlton  Prediction 4-2                                    
Gillingham v Stoke   Prediction: 0-2
Doncaster Rovers v Notts County Prediction: 1-1            
Crawley v Bristol City Prediction: 1-1
Chelsea v Portsmouth   Prediction 3-0                              
Dag & Red v Millwall  Prediction: 1-3
Coventry v Southampton   Prediction: 1-3                        
Derby v Crystal Palace  Prediction: 1-1
Bristol Rovers v Aston Villa  Prediction: 1-2                     
Macclesfield v Bolton  Prediction: 1-2
West Brom v Cardiff   Prediction: 2-1                              
Watford v Bradford City  Prediction: 2-0
Reading v Stevenage   Prediction: 2-0
Liverpool v Oldham   Prediction: 3-0
Sheffield United v Salisbury City  Prediction: 4-0
Nottingham Forest v Leicester City  Prediction: 1-1
Norwich v Burnley  Prediction 2-1
Newcastle v Blackburn  Prediction 1-1
Middlesbrough v Shrewsbury  Prediction: 3-0
Hull City v Ipswich Town  Prediction 2-1