Midweek Football Picks 2015 (December 1-2)

This really does feel like the calm before the storm as the opening few days in December are set aside for domestic Cup games, in England that being the Capital One Cup rather than the FA Cup.

After this week there really isn't much rest for the teams that play in England with a number of fixtures to be completed before the FA Cup Third Round weekend on January 9th.

In that time we will see the Group Stage of the Champions League/Europa League concluded, a number of domestic League games played as well as the FA Cup Second Round. That means draws for the big Third Round weekend as well as the Knock Out Stage of the European competition, while the focus in Europe will also be taken in seeing the Euro 2016 draw put together in the next couple of weeks.

I am not one of these people that want England to incorporate a 'Winter Break' and I am looking forward to this time of the year when there is plenty of good food and football to enjoy.


I have finally had time to get a Weekend Football Thoughts post put up having missed the last month thanks to life being busier than planned. This week I am looking at the difficulties at Aston Villa and Newcastle United as well as the poor form of Wayne Rooney and Diego Costa and finally looking ahead to the New Year and wondering which teams will be involved in a title race. Those issues can all be read here.


So the picks have been a bit of a disaster through the first three months, but there really isn't a lot you can do when you pick a team and they lead 0-2 with ten minutes left, score to go ahead in the 95th minute and still fail to win the game. Little things like that can make all the difference but I seem to be hitting plenty of bad luck to go with bad picks and that is never going to be a good thing.

It's disappointing to be honest, but I am thinking I am on the right path as long as I get a semblance of luck going my way.


Manchester City v Hull City Pick: With the anticipated changes that Steve Bruce is likely to make to his Hull City team Manchester City are unsurprisingly strong favourites to progress to a second Semi Final in three years under Manuel Pellegrini.

You would expect Sergio Aguero to sit with the Christmas games in mind and having come off at the weekend, but Manchester City should still have too much quality in their ranks for Hull City. The likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling could be joined by David Silva in the starting line up as Manuel Pellegrini will look to get this tie in hand very quickly.

That has seen Manchester City win 4-1 at Sunderland and 5-1 at home against Crystal Palace in the last couple of Rounds of the Capital One Cup. It might be a little concern for Hull City that Sheffield Wednesday of the Championship were embarrassed 7-0 here last season, but Steve Bruce will just look for a big effort and a defeat wouldn't be the end of the world as his team focus on League matters.

No team is going to roll over so the changes made to the Hull City team should see players looking to prove themselves for selection in the coming months. This club have done well on their recent visits to The Etihad Stadium, but this does feel like the home team have too many advantages and I expect Manchester City to progress without too many difficulties.

Once Manchester City get control of the game, it is hard to see them letting it go and I like them to win this one by at least two goals so will back the home team to cover the Asian Handicap.


Middlesbrough v Everton Pick: The two live games being picked for the Capital One Cup Quarter Finals both look like they could be highly competitive games including this one between Middlesbrough and Everton. There are three Championship versus Premier League fixtures in the Cup, but this is the only one where the lower League side is hosting and Middlesbrough will feel they can cause another upset.

The side defended well for long periods against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the last Round and Middlesbrough might even have won that game without the need for penalties with better composure in front of goal. That has been a problem for them in recent games including their last home game which resulted in a late penalty leading to a win over Queens Park Rangers.

Some of the home fans were unbelievably restless in that game to the point that Aitor Karanka has told the fans to stay behind the team and this is going to be the kind of game where Middlesbrough need their fans. Facing a tough Premier League team at home is not going to be easy but Middlesbrough won't be intimidated by an Everton team that have looked good going forward but also pretty average at the back.

Everton have shown some vulnerabilities against the lower League teams they have faced in the Capital One Cup as they needed extra time to see off League One Barnsley and were behind at Championship Reading before rallying for a 1-2 win.

And coming off the really disappointing draw with Bournemouth where they led 0-2 with ten minutes left and also 2-3 after a 95th minute goal is going to play with the Everton minds or so you would expect. Everton have been difficult to beat on their travels this season, but Middlesbrough have been very strong at home and these two teams might really negate one another and need extra time or penalties to separate them.

Neither Aitor Karanka nor Roberto Martinez will want those extra minutes with the Christmas period fast approaching, but a Semi Final spot is going to make it a tense game and it could end in a draw. That might be worth a small interest in the live showing on Tuesday evening.


Stoke City v Sheffield Wednesday Pick: This should be the kind of tie that Stoke City win, but they look very short at healthy odds on to win the game and it is a spot in which they have failed a few times in the Premier League. The expectation that they should win this game can play on their mind and Sheffield Wednesday will come here with 'nothing to lose'.

That freedom has allowed Sheffield Wednesday to beat the likes of Newcastle United and Arsenal so they won't be overawed by having to play at Stoke City. Sheffield Wednesday have been playing very well over the last couple of months and they have been scoring goals on their travels which makes them a dangerous proposition for Stoke City.

It isn't that long ago since Watford came here and won 0-2 in the Premier League and I certainly think Sheffield Wednesday can cause some problems for Stoke City. In saying that, I also believe Stoke City will dig deep and find a way to win this game although they will have to come through some tense moments to reach the Semi Final in the League Cup.

I do see a situation where both teams will score in this one while the nature of the Cup tie could see spaces coming open if one team is chasing the game. That leads me to think we may see at least three goals in this one, which has been a feature of recent Sheffield Wednesday away games, and the layers might be offering too tempting a price on that happening.


Southampton v Liverpool Pick: It was another difficult game for Jurgen Klopp at Anfield on Sunday, but his Liverpool team did maintain a strong winning run in the last few weeks by seeing off Swansea City 1-0. For all the difficulties they have had in imposing their style at Anfield, Liverpool have been a real force in their recent away games as shown by big wins at Chelsea and Manchester City.

Not often can it be said that Liverpool perhaps prefer playing away from the cauldron that Anfield can provide, but that might be the case for Klopp and the style he has put together with this current squad of players. They might actually enjoy the freedom the team get away from home where there is naturally more space to exploit and Liverpool will go to Southampton with plenty of confidence they can move into the Semi Finals of the League Cup.

Southampton did reach this stage last season, but they were in the midst of a poor run and that moved into their Cup performance in a disappointing 1-0 loss at Sheffield United. There are some similarities this time around too with Southampton suffering back to back Premier League losses ahead of the Quarter Final and that will be something of a concern for Ronald Koeman.

In saying that, Southampton played well at Manchester City in their 3-1 loss and that kind of level will give Liverpool problems. The layers are finding it hard to separate them and I am too although the gut feeling I have is that Liverpool are in the stronger form and play very well away from home in recent weeks to think they can edge this one.

One thing that has stood out in their away games is that there have been goals at both ends and that might be the case in this Capital One Cup game. Both teams should have their chances in this one and a 2-1 scoreline either way wouldn't surprise me too much, while there could be more space to exploit if a team is chasing this game.

The layers are not expecting goals but I think there will be at least three shared- I would favour Liverpool at the prices if I was convinced Jurgen Klopp would play his strongest eleven, but that doubt means I favour goals to be scored, a feature of recent Liverpool games under their new manager.

MY PICKS: Manchester City - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.90 Bet365 (2 Units)
Middlesbrough-Everton Draw @ 3.40 Sky Bet (1 Unit)
Stoke City-Sheffield Wednesday Over 2.5 Goals @ 2.10 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
Southampton-Liverpool Over 2.5 Goals @ 2.10 Paddy Power (2 Units)

November Final: 11-19-1, - 12.94 Units (51 Units Staked, - 25.37% Yield)

October Final: 16-25, - 13.51 Units (79.50 Units Staked, - 16.99% Yield)
September Final: 29-30-3, + 4.18 Units (117.5 Units Staked, + 3.58% Yield)
August Final: 16-31-1, - 24.34 Units (94 Units Staked, - 25.89% Yield)

Season 2015/16: 72-105-5, - 46.61 Units (342 Units Staked, - 13.63% Yield)
Season 2014/15: 159-208-5, - 20.22 Units (647 Units Staked, - 3.13% Yield)
Season 2013/14: 164-185-3, + 15.84 Units (577 Units Staked, + 2.75% Yield)
Season 2012/13: + 4.42 Units (415 Units Staked, + 1.07% Yield)

Midweek Football Picks 2015 (October 27-28)

The Capital One Cup takes centre stage this week as we have reached the Fourth Round of the competition and the Quarter Final draw will be made at the end of the Wednesday night games.

It has been a strange competition in that it feels like the top teams don't take it that seriously, yet the likes of Birmingham City and Swansea City winning the League Cup have been rare underdogs having success over the last decade.

Both Chelsea and Manchester United have won the League Cup three times each in that time, while Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Manchester City have also taken home the first piece of domestic silverware in the last eleven years.

You can see many of the top teams are still involved in the League Cup this season too and it looks like a competition that will produce a very strong end with potential top class Quarter Finals, Semi Finals and then a Final.

Of course the big question is what kind of teams managers will put out this week as there will be rotation amongst the Premier League and European commitments, so it is always wise to perhaps keep an eye out on the team news that is released ahead of these games.


I have wrote a few thoughts from the Premier League this past weekend which includes Tim Sherwood's firing, Chelsea's continuing problems, Arsenal's title challenge, North East troubles and the questions surrounding Wayne Rooney. That can be read here.


I'd always recommend keeping stakes to a minimum when it comes to the League Cup at this stage with managers still likely to make plenty of changes to keep their players fresh. Once we reach the Quarter Final it is a different story as those games are played in December once the European commitments are completed although still two weeks before the hectic schedule over Christmas and the New Year.


Everton v Norwich City Pick: The Capital One Cup can be a difficult competition to get a read on because of the lack of team news ahead of these ties. The fact is that managers will make changes to their first teams, but some may many more than others, and so it can be difficult to make predictions prior to that team news being released.

I do think Roberto Martinez has less of a reason to make changes than Alex Neil as Everton will see the Capital One Cup as a genuine trophy they can win. On the other hand Norwich City won't be overly concerned about any deep Cup runs this season with the Premier League being the priority.

Previous Rounds have shown Everton make fewer changes than Norwich City and home advantage may be key as the latter have lost 5 of their last 8 away ties in the League Cup. It might be close, but Everton should have enough to come through.


Liverpool v Bournemouth Pick: There might be a lack of confidence in both dressing rooms at the moment and that makes for a fascinating League Cup tie on Wednesday in front of the television cameras.

Jurgen Klopp has urged his team to relax as much as possible to ensure results come their way, but Liverpool have had a knack of conceding and they are simply not scoring enough to overcome that. Players are also returning from injury which is producing some inconsistent performances, but I do think they have the more recognisable starting eleven in this fixture.

The Premier League is the priority for Bournemouth and I think they will decide to play a few more fringe players. That will give Liverpool the edge, but the nerves in the home team might make this a tighter game than expected when the team news is perhaps released.

Any kind of win will do for Liverpool at the moment and I think they do finally get back to winning ways by the narrowest of margins this week.


Manchester City v Crystal Palace Pick: Manchester City are pretty big favourites to win this Fourth Round Capital One Cup tie, but I really don't know whether they should be favoured to win the game as easily as the layers expect.

There is plenty of quality in the Manchester City squad even without David Silva and Sergio Aguero, but they are off a very tough Manchester derby and have had one less day than Crystal Palace to prepare for this one. Manuel Pellegrini has played a strong team in the League Cup through his time as manager, but he might not risk some of his players that had to battle on Sunday and that gives Crystal Palace a chance.

In his time with Newcastle United, Alan Pardew did give the League Cup his attention and the Premier League form means Crystal Palace can do that this season. Don't forget it was Pardew's Newcastle United that won at The Etihad Stadium last season in this Round of the League Cup and I think Crystal Palace will cause problems in this Fourth Round tie.

Backing the away team to keep this competitive by backing them with the Asian Handicap start looks like it will give us a run this week and I think Crystal Palace may even spring a big surprise.


Southampton v Aston Villa Pick: The League Cup isn't always seen as a positive for some managers, but Ronald Koeman was playing a strong team in the competition last season and has clearly got a real belief that Southampton can go far in it this time around.

They should be too strong for an Aston Villa team that is lacking direction and with a group of players whose confidence has been pummelled in each passing week. The uncertainty of who is going to take over and the pressure of the Premier League results are all going to play a part and I think it would take something special for Aston Villa to get a result here.

Saido Mane is out for Southampton, but they still have plenty of attacking threats and The Saints have been scoring plenty of goals which is going to be tough for Aston Villa to match.

To be fair to Aston Villa they have been competitive in away games and only once been beaten by more than a single goal margin in recent weeks. That includes blowing a 0-2 lead at Leicester City in a 3-2 defeat and I don't want to underestimate their chances of producing a performance to give Southampton some problems.

However, the sacking of Tim Sherwood has to play a part even if the manager was shifting the blame of recent results on his players rather than himself. Maybe that frees up the players, but I am not convinced and I expect the better team playing at home to win this by a couple of goals.


Manchester United v Middlesbrough Pick: Louis Van Gaal played a strong Manchester United team in the Capital One Cup Third Round just days after a Sunday Premier League game so there is the potential he does that again this week. It was a tough Manchester derby that was played on Sunday, but the Dutch manager looks keen to right the wrongs of a poor League Cup defeat at the MK Dons last season.

He will make some changes as the likes of Daley Blind, Michael Carrick and Memphis Depay come in with the Premier League game at Crystal Palace in mind, but I do think a strong Manchester United eleven will take the field.

I do think Aitor Karanka will play a strong Middlesbrough team too as he looks to give his players a chance to impress against one of the biggest names in world football. However, the Championship is his priority and Middlesbrough may go the same way as Ipswich Town in this Fourth Round tie.

Manchester United have won 1 of their last 4 games in all competitions and I think Louis Van Gaal will want to get back to winning ways here. Some players will be rested in anticipation of big games coming up, but I think Manchester United will be too strong on the evening and are able to win this by a couple of goals.

Defensively they have remained sound and Middlesbrough have been struggling for goals of late. I'd keep an eye on team news in case there are vast changes made by the home team, but I think Manchester United will cover the Asian Handicap.

MY PICKS: Everton @ 1.70 Bet Fred (1 Unit)
Liverpool to Win by One Goal @ 4.00 Bet365 (1 Unit)
Crystal Palace + 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.83 Bet365 (1 Unit)
Southampton - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 2.00 Bet365 (1 Unit)
Manchester United - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 1.95 Bet365 (1 Unit)

October Update: 15-21, - 8.31 Units (65.50 Units Staked, - 12.69% Yield)
September Final: 29-30-3, + 4.18 Units (117.5 Units Staked, + 3.58% Yield)
August Final: 16-31-1, - 24.34 Units (94 Units Staked, - 25.89% Yield)

Season 2015/16: 16-31-1, - 24.34 Units (94 Units Staked, - 25.89% Yield)
Season 2014/15: 159-208-5, - 20.22 Units (647 Units Staked, - 3.13% Yield)
Season 2013/14: 164-185-3, + 15.84 Units (577 Units Staked, + 2.75% Yield)

Season 2012/13: + 4.42 Units (415 Units Staked, + 1.07% Yield)

Midweek Football Picks 2014 (December 16-17)

The League Cup, otherwise known as the Capital One Cup, takes centre stage this week as we have reached the Quarter Final stage of that competition, but it was the Champions League and Europa League draws that will be making the headlines after those were completed on Monday morning.

All three ties involving the English clubs in the Champions League are intriguing, although the one between Arsenal and Monaco is more to do with the links that Arsene Wenger has with both clubs. On paper, Arsenal should finally return to the Quarter Final of the Champions League having exited at the Last 16 stage four years in a row.

The ties between Chelsea/Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City/Barcelona are rematches from last season, a factor of the Champions League draw thanks to the rules forbidding clubs from the same association meeting before the Quarter Finals. Will we see the same winners as last season from those ties? I would guess 'yes' at the moment, but injuries and form will have to be factored in when the tournament returns in February.


With the Europa League winner now getting a place in the Champions League, the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton may all feel their best chance of getting into that competition is by winning the Europa League.

Everton have been given a decent Last 32 draw against Young Boys of Switzerland, but both Liverpool and Spurs have a couple of tough teams to overcome in Besiktas and Fiorentina respectively. The other factor is that the winner of the Europa League has to still play 9 games to win that event and the English teams might not be ready to throw all their eggs in that basket until their Premier League top four credentials have completely extinguished.

In saying that, both Liverpool and Everton may be in that position by February/March, although Tottenham Hotspur could be challenging for a top four place as long as they can improve their form at White Hart Lane.


Another game that might be getting a few more interested people tuning in is the FA Cup Second Round Replay between Yeovil Town and Accrington Stanley which takes place on Tuesday. With the winner of that having a huge financial boost by hosting Manchester United in the FA Cup Third Round early next month, expect a lot of interest from the fans of both clubs as well as the media, although it was a surprise to me that the game wasn't picked as one of the two for live viewing.


The World Club Championship also gets going with both Real Madrid and San Lorenzo entering at the Semi Final stage of that tournament and the expectation is that Real Madrid will add a title that they have yet to win to an ever-growing trophy cabinet.


Cruz Azul v Real Madrid Pick: At this moment in time, Real Madrid don't have too many peers in European football and it does seem a big ask for Cruz Azul to be the team to upset them in this World Club Championship Semi Final. It has been made clear all season that Real Madrid see this as a vital tournament to win and so desire can't be questioned, while they also have a proud 20 game winning run to protect so any hopes that Cruz Azul have might be fleeting at best.

Cruz Azul were struggling to see off the Western Sydney Wanderers in the Quarter Final and the CONCACAF representative has seen this tournament a tough one to deal with. Some of that will have to do with the travelling as Dubai and Morocco have hosted recent editions of the World Club Championship, but I also think the best players from those nations tend to ply their trade in either South America or Europe.

The European representative has been comfortable in the Semi Final of the competition and they have won the last 9 of those by a 29-5 scoreline. Real Madrid obviously have a lot of power in forward positions and have been scoring so many goals in recent games that it might end with another big win for the UEFA team in the Semi Final.

I don't think Cruz Azul will give up, but these players will know all about the big names that Real Madrid have and that can be tough to deal with with some more interested in whose shirt they will be able to swap at the end of the game. Real Madrid won't want to embarrass any team, but they have scored so many goals and have so many attacking options that it is hard to see how Cruz Azul will contain them.

Real Madrid have won 14 of their 20 games in their winning run by at least three goals and I will back them to do that again in this Semi Final and continue the UEFA dominance at this stage of the competition.


Derby County v Chelsea Pick: This is the kind of game that Steve McClaren and the Derby County players want to bring to the fans on a weekly basis by earning promotion to the Premier League and some may be calling for a surprise result if Chelsea make too many changes to their starting eleven.

However, Derby County have not been in the best form in recent weeks with 2 losses from their last 3 games and they were also outplayed by Chelsea in their home loss in the FA Cup last season.

Jose Mourinho also holds the League Cup in pretty high regards and he is likely to put out a Chelsea team that doesn't have a host of changes considering they have six days before the next Premier League game. Chelsea haven't been playing as well away from home in their most recent games, but they are a solid team and should be far too good for lower League opposition.

It should be an entertaining game as Derby County are the kind of team that will come forward and try and make things happen, which should also make it easier for Chelsea to play their football. Even with some of the changes that are likely to be made, I would still think Chelsea prove too good and they might end up with a similar result to the FA Cup win here last season.


Bournemouth v Liverpool Pick: There won't be too many better opportunities for Bournemouth to beat a team of the size of Liverpool as in this League Cup Quarter Final and the confident leaders of the Championship have to be fully motivated to do that. A chance to get into the League Cup Semi Final is one benefit, but the confidence a win over Liverpool could give Bournemouth to take into the rest of the League season could be critical in helping them earn promotion to the top flight for the first time.

Bournemouth have scored at least twice in their last 6 home games in all competitions and that includes a 2-1 win over West Brom in the last Round of the League Cup, while they have won 4 of those games.

However, Liverpool finally showed some creative life in their loss at Manchester United with the 3-0 scoreline flattering to the home team. David De Gea made some top saves, but it was poor finishing from the Liverpool forwards that prevented them scoring at least once, although Brendan Rodgers is happier with the chances that were created.

How much of that is down to the poor defensive performances that Manchester United have put in is hard to say, but I do think Liverpool are more suited to playing away from Anfield at the moment. They are given extra space in these away games as the home team has an onus on them to attack and I don't think Eddie Howe's Bournemouth are going to take a backward step.

One concern for Bournemouth has to be the fact they have conceded at least twice in their last 4 home games and I do think Liverpool have their chances in this one too. Seeing at least three goals looks a pretty big price, but I think there is something in taking there being at least four goals shared in this one.

The last 4 Bournemouth home games have seen that number hit, while Liverpool's 3 away games before the one at Old Trafford also saw that number reached. Add the chances up in the game at Manchester United and that game could easily have seen at least four goals shared by the teams and I think the 3.20 offered for that happening in this game is too big to ignore.


Tottenham Hotspur v Newcastle United Pick: Newcastle United may have had a poor result in North London on Saturday, but they will point to their 1-2 success at Tottenham Hotspur earlier this season as a confidence inspiring result that could see them come through this League Cup Quarter Final.

Both sets of fans will be dreaming that they are capable of reaching the Final if they come through this tie and likely avoid Chelsea in the Semi Final draw. That should inspire a big game from both sets of players and I think this has the elements that could make it a very entertaining game.

Neither manager will want his team pushed into extra time with the games coming thick and fast over the next month and I can see both looking to win this game from the off. Tottenham Hotspur created enough chances in the first game between these teams to have had the game won by half time, but Newcastle United will feel the pace in their forward lines will make them a dangerous proposition throughout the game on the counter-attack.

Neither defence is the most reliable either so I am expecting this Cup Quarter Final to produce goals with both Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United expected to score.

These teams have produced the goods when facing each other in recent seasons and 6 of the last 7 have seen at least three goals shared. At White Hart Lane, 3 of the last 4 have seen at least three goals shared and gaps would certainly open up in this game if one team is chasing the game with the pace and counter-attacking ability of the other.

Both games on Wednesday night in the League Cup look like they could be action filled, although I will take this one to end with at least three goals.

MY PICKS: Real Madrid - 2.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.75 Bet365 (2 Units)
Chelsea - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 2.11 Bet Victor (2 Units)
Bournemouth-Liverpool Over 3.5 Goals @ 3.20 Sporting Bet (1 Unit)
Tottenham Hotspur-Newcastle United Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.80 Ladbrokes (2 Units)

December Update: 11-11-1, + 4.76 Units (40 Units Staked, + 11.90% Yield)
November Final: 17-21, - 0.59 Units (69 Units Staked, - 1% Yield)
October Final: 8-18, - 14.79 Units (47 Units Staked, - 31.47% Yield)
September Final: 12-18, - 2.28 Units (41 Units Staked, - 5.56% Yield)
August Final: 8-22, - 19.92 Units (51 Units Staked, - 39.06% Yield)

Season 2014/15: 45-79, - 37.58 Units (208 Units Staked, - 18.07% Yield)
Season 2013/14: 164-185-3, + 15.84 Units (577 Units Staked, + 2.75% Yield)
Season 2012/13: + 4.42 Units (415 Units Staked, + 1.07% Yield)

Weekend Football Picks 2014 (March 1-2)

The first two months of 2014 have been tough work for the picks, but there were at least some shoots of recovery in the last week, although it was never going to be enough to turn around a terrible February.

It was also another disappointing week for the English teams in Europe, although Chelsea won't be too disheartened by a 1-1 draw in Galatasaray and Tottenham Hotspur did make it through to the Last 16 of the Europa League.

Swansea's defeat in Napoli was expected although you have to credit the performance of Garry Monk's men who were close to causing the upset and the 3-1 loss was harsh as they pushed men on in search of an equaliser.

Of course the biggest disappointment was Manchester United becoming the third English side to lose their Last 16 first leg tie in the Champions League by a 2-0 scoreline, although at least United can point to having the second leg at home in two weeks time. Still, the performance was absolutely lacking the desire and belief that we have become so used to seeing from Manchester United and it will take a real turnaround in mentality for the side to achieve the goals they had in mind at the beginning of the season.

At least they can have a few days to try and get their head right for a big March in which United face Liverpool and Manchester City at Old Trafford as well as the second leg of the Champions League. It could be critical for David Moyes as he needs to show that there are some positives at Old Trafford in what has been a dark season to this point, one which is destined to end without silverware and very close to ensuring they miss out on a Champions League place.


As I have mentioned above, the first two months of 2014 have been tough and hurt a decent looking season, but hopefully the last week is a sign of things turning back in a positive direction as March begins with a reduced Premier League schedule and the League Cup Final between Manchester City and Sunderland.


Everton v West Ham United Pick: For all the praise that Roberto Martinez has received this season for the way his Everton side have been playing and picking up results, they are once again in a familiar position of 7th in the League table and still not quite good enough to beat the very top teams in the Premier League.

There has been some misfortune for the side in their defeats at Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, but the record books will show losses that effectively cost them a chance to get into the top four this season.

It has been a different story for Everton at Goodison Park this season and they remain in good form here as they bring in a 5 game winning run in all competitions. However, they have to be aware of a West Ham United team that have also picked up a lot of confidence as they moved up the table and away from the relegation zone.

While the majority of their positive results have come at home, West Ham are unbeaten in 3 away games and have found a defensive shape that will make them tough to beat.

I still think Everton really get going at Goodison Park and will exert a lot of pressure on the Hammers which is likely going to lead to the three points, particularly if Romelu Lukaku is available for selection. They have missed his presence up front and his return is critical for Everton to finish as high up the table as they can, as well as for their FA Cup ambitions.

I believe Everton win, but West Ham have scored in 5 of their last 6 away games and may also find the net in this one.


Fulham v Chelsea Pick: A West London derby that is going to have real ramifications at the top and bottom of the Premier League should be a fascinating one for the fans to enjoy, especially if Fulham can back up their performance at West Brom in this game.

The problem for Fulham at Craven Cottage has been the number of goals they have been conceding with the likes of Sunderland, Southampton and Liverpool all scoring 3 goals in wins here. However, Fulham will also believe they can test a Chelsea rearguard that has been looking a little more fragile of late as Fulham have scored in all but one Premier League game at home this season.

They will likely need to score at least once if they are to take something from the game because Chelsea have the pace in the forward positions to hurt Fulham in the same manner as Liverpool did, albeit without the one forward that Jose Mourinho believes would complete his side.

Chelsea have only failed to score in 1 of their last 8 away games in the Premier League so they too will be expected to score in this game at Craven Cottage and it does seem that everything is pointing to both teams scoring in the game.

I believe Chelsea are the more likely winners, but they haven't always had it easy at Craven Cottage and have also just lost some momentum in recent games. Therefore backing both teams to score is the only pick from the game without worrying about which side will win the game.


Stoke City v Arsenal Pick: So far this season, Manchester City, Chelsea, Everton and Manchester United have all failed to beat Stoke City at the Brittania Stadium and two of those sides have even failed to take home a point. Anyone who thought the arrival of Mark Hughes to replace Tony Pulis would make Stoke an easier touch at the Brittania Stadium would have been mistaken and this has regularly been a part of the world that has given Arsenal a lot of trouble.

The only one of the big teams that have come to this Stadium and won are Liverpool who outscored Stoke in a 3-5 win, but Stoke generally don't concede too many goals here and I think they are going to make this tough for Arsenal.

Arsenal also haven't been at their most convincing in their last two away games at Southampton and Liverpool and are perhaps a little fortunate to have picked up one point from those games.

I don't think this is going to be an easy game for Arsenal either and I am not sure why the layers think they deserve to be odds on to win at a venue that has been tough for the big teams all season. Add in Arsenal's own problems here and I think there it is a little generous to be getting Stoke City on the Asian Handicap at odds against.

The full pay out would come if Stoke manage to avoid defeat, but a one goal Arsenal win would return half the stake and that is the pick from the game.


Southampton v Liverpool Pick: For the neutral fan, this could be the right game that has been placed in front of the television cameras on Saturday evening as both Southampton and Liverpool have been scoring, and conceding, plenty of goals in recent games.

You have to think the visit of Liverpool will at least put some fire in the belly for the home players and fans and Southampton were very good when Arsenal visited them in January. However, they have to be concerned with the two goals they conceded against both Arsenal and Stoke City in their last 2 home games in the Premier League.

Liverpool themselves have scored 5 at Stoke City and 3 at Fulham in their most recent away games in the Premier League and have players like Daniel Sturridge in top form. They will use the pace on the counter attack to cause Southampton problems as the onus is on the home side to come forward and score goals, but Liverpool have to be worried about the fact that they have conceded 2 goals in 8 of their last 10 away games in the Premier League.

I am expecting chances at both ends in this game and the corresponding fixture did see four goals scored and I have a feeling we will see that tally matched on Saturday. There are goal-scorers in both sides and neither defence looks capable of keeping the other team from scoring when looking at the way they have played in recent weeks so over 3.5 goals looks to be the pick from the game.


Manchester City v Sunderland Pick: The first piece of silverware in England will be handed out this weekend as Manchester City take on Sunderland in the Capital One Cup Final from Wembley Stadium.

While you would have to say that Manchester City haven't looked as convincing in recent weeks as they have been for much of the season, the return of Sergio Aguero brings better balance for them going forward.

Add Aguero to the likes of David Silva, Samir Nasri and Yaya Toure and you can't help but expect Manchester City to score goals. They will be aided if Sunderland play as poorly as they did last week against Arsenal in a 4-1 loss at the Emirates Stadium, but I would be surprised if Gus Poyet hasn't given them a little more steel for this game.

It may not matter if City are feeling in rampant mood and while Sunderland have been able to beat this team regularly at the Stadium of Light, it might be much harder work on the big pitch at Wembley.

Sunderland may look to Wigan Athletic and their surprise win over Manchester City in the FA Cup last season, but I think that City side was perhaps affected by rumours surrounding Roberto Mancini at the time and I expect Manchester City to win this one by a couple of goals at least.


Tottenham Hotspur v Cardiff City Pick: There were times in their home win over Dnipro that Tottenham Hotspur were lacking in ideas and that is the only concern for them in this game. However, I don't believe Cardiff City have shown the same defensive discipline as the Ukrainian side did before the sending off and I think this could be a comfortable win for Spurs.

Both teams will be desperate for the three points in this game, but Cardiff City have been conceding too many goals away from home in their League games and haven't shown enough going forward to suggest they can keep this one competitive.

Cardiff have lost their last 6 away games in the Premier League all by at least two goals and Tottenham Hotspur can at least say that 3 of their last 5 home games have seen them win by at least two goals.

Spurs will have to show a little more creativity to reach that target again, but they have a player in Emmanuel Adebayor that looks motivated and is in form and I just believe there is too much about the home team in this one.

MY PICKS: Both Teams to Score and Everton to Win @ 3.30 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
Fulham-Chelsea Both Teams to Score @ 1.85 Bet Victor (2 Units)
Stoke City + 0.75 Asian Handicap @ 1.95 Bet Victor (2 Units)
Southampton-Liverpool Over 3.5 Goals @ 2.63 Stan James (2 Units)
Manchester City - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.80 Pinnacle (2 Units)
Tottenham Hotspur - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 2.10 Pinnacle (2 Units)

February Final: 12-28, - 16.74 Units (61 Units Staked, - 27.44% Yield)
January Final: 17-24, - 3.18 Units (62 Units Staked, - 5.13% Yield)
December Final: 19-16-2, + 13.34 Units (66 Units Staked, + 20.21% Yield)
November Final: 17-19-1, + 0.50 Units (56 Units Staked, + 0.09% Yield)
October Final: 20-16-1, + 12.94 Units (51 Units Staked, + 25.37% Yield)
September Final: 13-12, + 1.24 Units (39 Units Staked, + 3.18% Yield)
August Final: 13-26, - 12.13 Units (54 Units Staked, - 22.46% Yield)

Season 2013/14: 111-131-3, - 4.03 Units (389 Units Staked, - 1.04% Yield)
Season 2012/13: + 4.42 Units (415 Units Staked, + 1.07% Yield)

Midweek Football Picks- Capital One Cup Semi Final Second Leg 2014 (January 21-22)

This is a quiet week in England with a few lower League games to be played, but we also will see the first domestic Cup Final of the season set in stone as the second leg of the Capital One Cup Semi Finals are concluded on Tuesday and Wednesday.

It would be more than a little surprise if Manchester City are not one of the contestants taking part at Wembley Stadium on March 2nd, which also means the Manchester derby that had been set for that weekend is going to be moved later in the season.

The other Finalist is less clear, although Manchester United will be the favourites to overturn their 2-1 deficit against Sunderland from the first leg two weeks ago. 2014 hasn't been a good year for United so far, but they can give their fans something to look forward to in six weeks time, although I know a fair few fans that may approach that match with a little trepidation if it is indeed the Manchester derby in the League Cup Final.


West Ham United v Manchester City Pick: There is a lot of uncertainty about this game and I would definitely be keeping an eye out on the team news ahead of the game. The expectation is that Manchester City are going to be making a lot of changes to their side with an FA Cup Fourth Round match this weekend and a visit to Tottenham Hotspur next week in the Premier League.

However, there is a little less certainty regarding Sam Allardyce and what he will do with his team- will he rest players entirely as he did against Nottingham Forest, or play a strong team to build some confidence ahead of big Premier League games to come.

I am of the belief that it will be more like the latter as West Ham United have a week off before they play again and Allardyce can ill-afford another loss at Upton Park where the locals are getting restless.

With that in mind, I do think West Ham can make this more competitive against a Manchester City team that won't have the full motivation with such a commanding lead from the first leg. City can score a lot of goals so that has to be taken into consideration, but a changed side struggled against Blackburn Rovers in their game at Ewood Park and backing West Ham with a 1.5 goal head start could be the way to go about this game.


Manchester United v Sunderland Pick: As much as some in the media were highly critical of the Manchester United loss at Chelsea and how much of a 'gap' was between the sides, I tend to not subscribe to that view. There was no way that Chelsea were two goals better on the day and I think the defensive mistakes made by United were the biggest issue and they had looked the better team for large portions of the first half.

However, there is no doubt that Manchester United are missing Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie when it comes to scoring goals and the lack of bodies in the box when players had the ball in decent positions in the final third is a real issue that needs to be resolved.

They will have to be better in this game as they take on Sunderland who have something to hang on to from the first minute of the game, but Gus Poyet is right to be worried if they continue defending and playing as they did in the Southampton game, especially early on.

A start like that would give Manchester United all the momentum in this one, but you also have to respect the heart and determination Sunderland showed to get back into the game against Southampton which also extends their run to 1 loss in 10 games. Sunderland have to defend well early and look to promote the tension that has been evident in recent games at Old Trafford but conceding early could really get the home team going.

It is a tough game to call with the way Manchester United have played at times, but a similar level of performance to the one they had in the second half against Swansea and in the first half on Sunday, barring the silly errors, and I think David Moyes will be leading the team back out at Wembley Stadium for the second time this season. It could be tense at times, but I believe United will come through with the two goal win to go through to the Final within regulation time.

MY PICKS: West Ham United + 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.80 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
Manchester United - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 2.00 Pinnacle (1 Unit)

January Update: 12-16, - 1.08 Units (46 Units Staked, - 2.35% Yield)

December Final: 19-16-2, + 13.34 Units (66 Units Staked, + 20.21% Yield)
November Final: 17-19-1, + 0.50 Units (56 Units Staked, + 0.09% Yield)
October Final: 20-16-1, + 12.94 Units (51 Units Staked, + 25.37% Yield)
September Final: 13-12, + 1.24 Units (39 Units Staked, + 3.18% Yield)
August Final: 13-26, - 12.13 Units (54 Units Staked, - 22.46% Yield)

Season 2013/14: 82-79-3, + 15.89 Units (266 Units Staked, + 5.97% Yield)
Season 2012/13: + 4.42 Units (415 Units Staked, + 1.07% Yield)

Capital One Cup Semi Final Picks (January 7-8)

The FA Cup Third Round weekend may be a favourite of mine when it comes to viewing, but regularly my picks stink as I can never seem to second guess managers as much as I wish. That was the case for the Liverpool game when I was sure Brendan Rodgers would play his strongest team, but he made plenty of changes and Liverpool struggled to a 2-0 win over Oldham Athletic.

Manchester City failed to win, Chelsea coasted at what looked a tricky away tie at Derby County and Manchester United lost in a tough weekend to predict.


Manchester United- where can we start about what has been happening at Old Trafford? I know there are some 'fans' out there who are quick to blame David Moyes for everything these days, but I feel sorry for the manager. He has made some bad decisions, that is to be expected from someone learning the pressure and demands of being at a club the size of Manchester United, but I am blaming the players as much as him, if not more.

Fabio let everyone down with an ill-timed and reckless challenge that effectively cost United their place in the FA Cup for this season, but what is Moyes supposed to do about that? Much like the Kevin Nolan sending off for West Ham United in a recent loss to Fulham, Fabio let his team mates and his manager down when he didn't need to.

Some of the final balls have been downright disgusting and while Moyes can work on those in training, I think the players who are very well paid should be looking at themselves and questioning whether they are really doing enough.

Moyes needs at least another two windows to start putting his stamp on the team, but whether he gets the money necessary is another concern for the fans, one that has been brewing ever since the Glazers took over.

Truth be told, we don't know if there is the money that has been suggested in the papers- there may well be one chance for Moyes, like Kenny Dalglish was given by the Liverpool board, to really make a splash in the market albeit without selling a £50 million pound striker (unlikely to even get half of that for an almost out of contract Wayne Rooney in the summer if United do decide to cash in). However, the supply is not going to be inexhaustible and I don't think there will be room for Moyes to make mistakes that could set United back a few years.

I truly believe that he has to get those decisions right if United are to remain successful in the coming years, and that includes not panic buying in this January window if the players he wants are not available. In hindsight, that should have been the plan last summer when bringing in Maruoane Fellaini at the last minute when other more attractive signings either slipped through our fingers or outright did not want to sign for the club.

Winning the League Cup will at least give Moyes some clout against his naysayers, but it still looks like being a difficult few months ahead unless the players also buck up their ideas and take responsibility for some of the performances we have seen for a few years now.


Sunderland v Manchester United Pick: There is a new build up of pressure on David Moyes as some of the more spoilt aspects of the Manchester United support cannot wait to get on his back, but for some of the mistakes the manager has made, I think the players need to have a hard look at themselves in the mirror and remind themselves why they play for the biggest club in England and one of the biggest in world football.

The terrible tackle from Fabio that effectively cost Manchester United their place in the FA Cup and some of the poor final balls we saw in that loss to Swansea can't solely be pinned on the manager in my opinion. Some of the tactical decisions have been baffling at times, but Moyes is learning and needs to be given time to get things sorted.

Being away from Old Trafford may actually benefit this Manchester United team at the moment as the away support is the best in the country and there will be a loud response for the team. At home, that atmosphere can be a little subdued and nervy and it won't help the players as that feeds down from the stands so I do think United can come here and earn a vital lead in the first leg of this Semi Final.

It might not be a big lead to take back to Old Trafford in two weeks time as Sunderland have definitely become a little tougher to see off since Gus Poyet took over. A lack of goals has to be a concern for the manager, while they may not have the same rotation possibility as Manchester United with just 48 hours gone since both teams played.

Sunderland have failed to score in their last 2 home games in the Premier League and needed a late, late goal to force extra time against Chelsea in the Quarter Final before seeing them off. Add to that the fact that Manchester United's last 3 wins here have come by the minimum margin and the tough losses United have taken in their last couple of games and I like United to sneak a lead back to Old Trafford.


Manchester City v West Ham United Pick: The 5-0 loss at Nottingham Forest on Sunday was a real kick in the teeth for the travelling West Ham United fans and has amped the pressure up on Sam Allardyce. There have been some suggestions that he will be removed as manager of the club if West Ham are beaten at Cardiff City on Saturday and that may take away some of the focus that is required when visiting Manchester City.

Manchester City have a strong squad which they used fully on Saturday afternoon and I am expecting them to restore the majority of their better players in a bid to win this tie before they have to visit Upton Park. With the additional FA Cup Third Round added to a busy January schedule, Manuel Pellegrini will want to build a big lead in this one so he can rest players in two weeks time for the second leg and I think City are certainly capable of that.

I don't think West Ham will want to roll over the way they did at the City Ground, but this is a hard ground to visit if you are a team in form and West Ham are certainly not that. I think they will be under pressure for the majority of the game and will be looking to contain Manchester City as much as possible so I do believe the majority of the action will be coming in the West Ham United half of the pitch.

The layers tend to agree with that, but I think the chance of Edin Dzeko scoring has been under-estimated. I expect the Bosnian will get the start in this game and he has scored in all 3 Capital One Cup ties that Manchester City have played this season with the likes of Sergio Aguero and Alvaro Negredo rested at times.

Dzeko also scored in his last home game against Crystal Palace and I think the evens shot he scores again is too hard to ignore.

MY PICKS: Manchester United to Win by One Goal @ 3.80 Stan James (1 Unit)
Edin Dzeko Score Anytime @ 2.00 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)

January Update: 6-8, - 1.65 Units (23 Units Staked, - 7.17% Yield)

December Final: 19-16-2, + 13.34 Units (66 Units Staked, + 20.21% Yield)
November Final: 17-19-1, + 0.50 Units (56 Units Staked, + 0.09% Yield)
October Final: 20-16-1, + 12.94 Units (51 Units Staked, + 25.37% Yield)
September Final: 13-12, + 1.24 Units (39 Units Staked, + 3.18% Yield)
August Final: 13-26, - 12.13 Units (54 Units Staked, - 22.46% Yield)

Season 2013/14: 82-79-3, + 15.89 Units (266 Units Staked, + 5.97% Yield)
Season 2012/13: + 4.42 Units (415 Units Staked, + 1.07% Yield)

Midweek Football Picks 2013 (August 27-29)

This week we have the conclusion of the final European qualifying matches and then the draw that a lot of fans would have been looking forward to all summer- the Champions League Group Stage draw which takes place on Thursday evening and teams begin plotting their way to Lisbon next May.

The Europa League Group Stage draw is made on Friday morning and then we have one more weekend of League football before the transfer window will close, thankfully, and teams can settle down for the long winter of football.

The first legs of the Champions League have seen a number of teams take away very healthy leads from the opening games and there are a few who are in very strong positions- that means they are unlikely to go for the win from the off in the second legs so there is a need to be aware of that.

The same will apply to Europa League games and don't be surprised if Tottenham Hotspur make wholesale changes with the game against Arsenal in mind, especially with a 0-5 win in Georgia under their belts. It is something to consider in the coming few days.


We also have the Second Round of the Capital One Cup taking place this week, another competition where keeping an eye on team news and being wary of the upsets have to be kept in mind. The sides taking part in Europe won't enter the competition until the Third Round, but there are some big teams involved in the next two days, but I would tread carefully with the minefield these opening Rounds become.


Arsenal v Fenerbahce Pick: There are bound to be a number of changes to the Arsenal side in the wake of their 0-3 win in Turkey last week and it would be a real surprise if anything but an Arsenal place in the Group Stage is secured tonight.

It is interesting to note that the layers are not sure what Arsenal are going to do in this game- while they are expecting changes to the starting line up, there is also the added factor that the home team don't have to go for the win in this second leg.

Fenerbahce do have to open up and try and play football though and it would be a surprise to me if they come to London with damage limitation in mind. The Turkish side have to score three times without reply to give themselves a chance of extra time, while only a win by at least three goals will give them a chance to progress.

The first leg showed how limited in the pace department the defenders Fenerbahce have are, and that is an area Arsenal could exploit on the counter-attack again. The added factor that the Gunners take on Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday raises more questions about their desire to win this match, but Arsenal have enough about them to book their place in the Group Stage with style and I like them to win this by at least two goals again.


Basel v Ludogorets Razgrad Pick: It was a highly entertaining game in Bulgaria last week, but Basel have put themselves in a commanding position for this second leg after securing a 2-4 win in the first leg.

That puts all the pressure on Ludogorets Razgrad who either have to win this game by at least three goals, or score at least four goals in a two goal win to give themselves any hope of reaching the Group Stage.

Everyone will be expecting goals in this second leg because the Bulgarian side have no real reason to build their way into the game- they have to attack and score goals... There is the possibility the game would slow down if they managed to go 0-2 up early in the game, but this looks like a match where Basel will look to hit Ludogorets on the counter and the away side will be pushing to score themselves.

An early goal will certainly help get the game going and I will back over 2.5 goals from this one.


West Ham United v Cheltenham Town Pick: There are plenty of League Cup games taking place on Tuesday evening, but as I said above, it is a minefield to try and second guess what teams managers will play and what desire they have for a long run in this competition.

The success of Swansea last season should inspire a few more of the middling Premier League clubs and I think West Ham United fit that bill- they have a squad that can be rotated effectively, they have a strong chance of finishing in mid-table to the top half in the Premier League and, given the right draw, could be a match for anyone in the English Leagues.

Sam Allardyce has taken Bolton Wanderers to the Final of the League Cup before so it is a competition he doesn't necessarily completely ignore- while the goal is to maintain Premier League status, West Ham could give the fans a little more especially with the positive start they have made to the new season.

They should be too strong for Cheltenham Town who have suffered a slight hangover from their Play Off loss last season, although they did grab their first League win of the season on Saturday. I expect West Ham to bring a strong team into this game and I like them to win this one by a couple of goals.


Queens Park Rangers v Swindon Town Pick: The only goal for Queens Park Rangers this season is to get back into the Premier League, but it seems Harry Redknapp will use the Capital One Cup to rotate some of his squad, but also to build momentum.

Redknapp named a strong team that went to Exeter City in the First Round and came away with a 0-2 win and I expect to keep that philosophy up in the Second Round. He has a number of striking options that will all think they can cash in against League One Swindon Town at Loftus Road, although the latter have only lost 1 of their last 4 games in all competitions.

Unfortunately for Swindon, they don't have the luxury of playing in front of their own supporters and they have lost 5 of their last 6 away from home, including both games this season.

If Redknapp plays a team similar to the one that started the First Round, I expect QPR to win this one with room to spare.


Zenit St Petersburg v Pacos de Ferreira Pick: I did not see Zenit St Petersburg coming away from Portugal with a 1-4 win last week, but Pacos de Ferreira were the surprise Champions League third entrant from Portugal and proved that.

Zenit's added experience means they have virtually secured their place in the Group Stage with the win last week and there is no pressure on them this week. I still expect the Russian side to book their place in the next stage with another win in this one though as all the form is pointing for them to do so.

They have been strong at home in European competition and don't concede many goals here- compare that to Pacos de Ferreira who have lost 4 games in a row in all competition and have failed to score in 3 of those games.

I do expect Zenit to play a solid game in this one and look to keep a clean sheet, but I also feel they will be able to score so backing them to win to nil is the call.


Aston Villa v Rotherham United Pick: Did anyone else see the number of surprise results from the Capital One Cup yesterday? There were some big comebacks that prevented Sunderland falling to a League One club, while Liverpool blew a 2-0 lead against Notts County before coming through in extra time.

Other League One clubs, notably Bristol City and Peterborough United, beat higher League opposition so all the warning signs are there for Aston Villa.

However, Villa have played well to start this season and should be focused having reached the Semi Final in the League Cup last season- they also have a free weekend having had their game with Chelsea moved so the complete focus can be put onto this game.

I expect a strong team to start for the home side and while Rotherham United have made a good start to life in League One, I expect Villa to be too strong for them in this one.


Stoke City v Walsall Pick: Mark Hughes will be looking to beat Walsall in the League Cup Second Round for the second year in succession- last season he managed Queens Park Rangers to a 3-0 win over Walsall and I expect he will use this competition to give his Stoke City team a little more momentum following their first League win of the season on Saturday.

Walsall won't be a pushover having lost just 2 of their last 21 games in all competition, but I am expecting home advantage to be the factor that gives Stoke a little more room for manoeuvre in this one.

Team news will be important for the home side, but I do think Hughes will play a team that helps Stoke to another win at the Brittania Stadium in the space of four days. Stoke usually pride themselves on strong defensive performances and I expect that will be a major goal of theirs in this game, so backing them to win to nil is my call. 


MY PICKS: Arsenal - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 2.15 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
Basel-Ludogorets Razgrad Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.83 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
West Ham United - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.80 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
Queens Park Rangers - 1 Asian Handicap @ 1.90 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
Zenit St Petersburg Win to Nil @ 2.25 Coral (1 Unit)
Aston Villa - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 2.00 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
Stoke City Win to Nil @ 2.40 Bet Victor (1 Unit)


August Update: 10-15, + 0.22 Units (35 Units Staked, + 0.06% Yield)

Season 2012/13: + 4.42 Units (415 Units Staked, + 1.07% Yield)

United Corner 26th September (Liverpool Reaction, Capital One Cup, Tottenham Hotspur)

             This is a new 'corner' I have added to the blog that will be devoted to my first passion in life, Manchester United. I will publish this, on most occasions, on a Sunday evening where I will look back at the previous week, giving my take on results and upcoming fixtures.

All views expressed will be my own.


It has been eight days or so since I last wrote down anything to do with Manchester United, but it has been a successful eight days in terms of results even if the performances are not up to scratch.

It all began against Galatasaray last Wednesday night in the Champions League as they became the latest European side to come to Old Trafford and perhaps feel they deserved more than what they got from the game. Granted United had chances to kill the game off in the second half, but it was only when I got home to see the highlights of the game that I appreciated how good their chances were.

On another day, Galatasaray would have had an early penalty and that really would have tested our mettle. There was just nothing outstanding in the way we performed and it was a far 'flatter' performance than I expected considering the way we exited the competition.

Personally I put down the lack of urgency and emotion in the game due to the fact that Liverpool were next on the fixture list and at the end of the day the 3 points was all that mattered. Coming home I also heard that Cluj had beating Braga in Portugal so United should be looking to book their place, and hopefully top spot, by the time Match Day 4 is completed out in Braga.


As I said, I thought the lack of urgency was down to the fact we had Liverpool next on deck, but the performance was terrible in that game, even if the result was great.

I have been saying for a while that I wouldn't have been at all surprised if Brendan Rodgers had recorded his first win of the season against United- in fact, I woke up on Sunday morning with this terrible dawning that we were going to be beaten.

After a lively 5 minutes to open the game, we descended into a team that couldn't hold onto the ball and it seemed only a matter of time that Liverpool were going to get in front.. And then Jonjo Shelvey lost his mind!

In hindsight and after seeing countless replays, I realised that it was a harsh red card, but watching in live time it looked a nailed on red. He had already gone in pretty hard on Ryan Giggs and you could just see him throwing himself into the ball as Jonny Evans moved forward to get it.

The performance didn't pick up much in the second half, but we did very well to turn the result around and it's a big one so we can't complain too much- I think tactically we made a mistake by playing Giggs in centre midfield (gives away far too much possession for my liking and positionally is awkward at times, sitting far too far ahead of Michael Carrick and letting their midfield have too much room behind him to run into). Nani had another forgettable game and is fast running out of chances with injuries potentially clearing up in the forward areas.


I have also finally made my mind up about Shinji Kagawa and I know most won't like it at all- I think he is an extremely clever player and he knows in his mind exactly what to do at the right time so all the decision making is generally good.

However, I think he definitely has a lack of pace for the position of the field he is expecting to occupy and he doesn't quite have the ability to beat a man- he would still be effective around better players (Nani being in idiot mode really isn't helping), but Kagawa doesn't address the need for someone to get the ball and move with it through the middle of the park, something I truly felt Moussa Dembele could have offered us.

At Dortmund, having someone like Mario Gotze alongside him would have got the best out of his game- I am not being critical of Kagawa, I am just not sure he has enough about to him to be playing in the role that United want him to although will be hoping he proves me wrong going forward.


The United end at Anfield covered themselves wonderfully well during the game, even if some Scousers were moaning about a rendition of 'Where's Your Famous Munich Song?'. Later we did hear reports that United were chanting 'Always the Victim', but surprisingly there was little coverage of the fact that 'aeroplane gestures' had begun the issue- I know you should be the bigger man when someone is taunting you, but it does seem to me that a lot of people in the media have an agenda about the United fans.

I even heard someone on the radio (think it was that idiot Danny Kelly from TalkShite) saying that he thinks the 'You Know What You Are' chant about Luis Suarez shouldn't be sung at grounds and people should be ejected for that from games- Funny thing though, no one mentioned the fact that Paddy Evra was loudly booed throughout the game when he had the ball for the horrible crime of reporting racism!!


I thought it was absolutely crazy that Fergie had decided to 'rest' Nemanja Vidic on Sunday... OK, I'll admit it, my first thought was 'I wonder what Vidic has done'.

It later transpired that the Captain will be ruled out for a couple of months with knee surgery- I know there were rumours that Vidic would have left Old Trafford this Summer just gone if he hadn't done his knee in last December, so now I have got to wondering whether United want to get him in tip top shape, give him six months of continuous playing time and then unload him next Summer.

Maybe Vidic himself feels he needs to get himself back to 100% to revitalise the interest that Barcelona and Real Madrid have had in him or maybe it is just simply that he really needed the surgery.

I don't know too much about all that, but I do know he will be a miss as Fergie wanted to get him and Ferdinand back together to provide some consistency for our defence after we have conceded far too many goals to open the season. Now Jonny Evans will get that opportunity to put a stamp on one of the centre half positions as he won't be under a lot of pressure from injured competition in the coming weeks.


Talking about injuries, wonder if the rumours about Antonio Valencia walking around in a protective boot are true?


The next few days will see United have a couple of home games in the Capital One Cup and the Premier League. Obviously we have had a good record in the League Cup in recent seasons, but we will be blooding some of the youngsters and also giving the fringe players a chance. Newcastle United should give us a tough test, especially if they play some of their stronger players, while a small crowd at Old Trafford that is expected don't really 'get up for' a League Cup game as they would for other evening kick offs.

We'll then have the much more important home game against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday where we could have the chance to take over at the top of the very early Premier League table. While they have regularly been three points at Old Trafford, we'll once again get to see Dembele against us and I hope we do a much better job shackling him than we did when he played us with Fulham earlier this season.

The Spurs game will really give us an indication of where we are as a football team as they are another with a midfield that could pose plenty of problems while Jermaine Defoe isn't missing chances. It will be a really tough game, but one that I would be pencilling in three points when it is all said and done.


Team I expect against Newcastle: De Gea, Michael Keane, Evans, Wooton, Buttner, Fletcher, Anderson, Powell, Welbeck, Hernandez and Henrique.

Team I expect against Tottenham: Lindegaard, Rafael, Evra, Ferdinand, Evans, Carrick, Scholes, Cleverley, Nani, Kagawa and Van Persie

Midweek Football Picks (August 28-30)

It was a strange weekend for the picks as the 'pick of the day' didn't come off, yet the majority of the others did and that meant only a small loss on what could have been a devastating couple of days.

My views on the last week at Manchester United can be found here

The overall musings from the last weekend of football can be found at this link

The picks for the next couple of days will come out in staggered updates.


Sheffield Wednesday v Fulham Preview (http://goonersguide.com/football-pick-14790-Sheffield-Wednesday-v-Fulham.htm)

Leicester City v Burton Albion Preview (http://goonersguide.com/football-pick-14792-Leicester-City-v-Burton-Albion.htm)

Norwich City v Scunthorpe United Preview (http://goonersguide.com/football-pick-14795-Norwich-City-v-Scunthorpe-United.htm)

Panathinaikos v Malaga Preview (http://goonersguide.com/football-pick-14784-Panathinaikos-v-Malaga.htm)


MY PICKS: Sheffield Wednesday-Fulham Over 2.5 Goals @ 2.00 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
Leicester City - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.85 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
Norwich City - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 2.00 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
Panathinaikos-Malaga Over 2.5 Goals @ 2.14 Pinnacle (1 Unit)

August Update: 12-9, + 5.29 Units (36 Units Staked)