Arsenal title challenge received another major blow this time due the injury of goalkeeper Petr Cech. Cech as been ruled out by a calf injury for about a month during their last home game loss to Swansea.
The Arsenal keeper was racing back towards his goal from the Swansea side of the pitch where he had gone to see if he could help his club pull one back via a corner kick in the closing minutes of the Arsenal vs Swansea game that ended 1-2 in favour of the Swans.
This news was confirmed by Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger during his weekly press conference ahead of the North London Derby between second placed Tottenham and third placed Arsenal on Saturday
Mark Clattenburg is set to be axed from the next round of Premier League games.
It comes just a week after the referee gave a controversial penalty for Tottenham with a handball decision against Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling.
Television replays suggested it hit Sterling’s back.
Ex-referee Graham Poll accused Clattenburg of “breaking the golden rule” of refereeing by “guessing.”
It is understood that Clattenburg is aware that he will be “rested” for next weekend when the Premier League returns after the FA Cup.
Clattenburg, who is one of the Premier League’s most respected officials is also facing investigation by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited after joining a management agency that also represents players.
The 40-year-old is due to meet referees’ chief Mike Riley to discuss the move which would see him make after dinner speeches and charity events.
Mark Clattenburg-Referee
Clattenburg has been involved in controversy before after being stood down in the past for breaking referees’ protocol by travelling to his own after a game so he could get to an Ed Sheeran concert.
He was also wrongly accused of racially abusing Chelsea’s John Obi Mikel, and was suspended for eight-months following an investigation into his “private business affairs.”
– Newcastle United will have to pay £7million to lure Bafetimbi Gomis from Swansea City, according to reports.
– According to reports, Villarreal are keen to resign Denis Cheryshev from Real Madrid.
– Gary Cahill will not be allowed to leave Chelsea during this transfer window, according to reports.
– Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini has told L’Equipe that Seydou Doumbia will not be joining Marseille.
– West Ham United are reportedly ready to rival Norwich City for Inter defender Davide Santon.
– Atalanta captain German Denis says goodbye to fans ahead of a move to Independiente: “You don’t make history by yourself, thanks for everything.”
– Barcelona have made Juventus striker Paulo Dybala their main objective for the summer transfer window, according to reports in Spain
– Lyon have joined the race to sign Troyes attacking midfielder Jimmy Cabot, according to reports.
– Monaco are set to sign defender Jemerson from Atletico Mineiro, according to L’Equipe.
– Schalke chairman Clemens Tonnies has labelled reports claiming defender Joel Matip has already agreed terms with Liverpool ”a hoax”
– Alexander Pato underwent his medical last night but the deal is being held up by complications over his loan fee, according to reports.
– Quique Sanchez Flores has confirmed Watford were interested in Andros Townsend, but couldn’t match Tottenham’s asking price.
Luis Enrique, credit fcbarcelona.com
– Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has hinted the Spanish champions could add to their squad before Monday’s transfer deadline.
– West Ham boss Slaven Bilic hopes to compete a loan deal for Emmanuel Emenike in the next couple of days.
– St Étienne have confirmed that they have reached a fee agreement with Norwegian side Rosenborg for the signing of highly-rated young defensive midfielder Ole Kristian Selnaes.
– Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski will reject interest from Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea to wait for a move to Real Madrid once the Spanish side’s transfer embargo is lifted at the end of next season, according to reports.
– Porto want £38million for Giannelli Imbula, double of what Stoke City have offered for the midfielder, according to reports
Emmanuel Adebayor joins Crystal Palace
– Alan Pardew has dismissed fears that he has gambled by signing Emmanuel Adebayor, revealing the controversial striker has signed a performance-based contract at Crystal Palace.
– Tottenham are close to agreeing a deal with Fulham for Moussa Dembélé, according to reports.
– Swansea City head coach Francesco Guiodlin has confirmed talks are ongoing with Chievo’s Alberto Paloschi and could be finalised over the next 48 hours.
– West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says “no money in the world” could persuade him to sell Dimitri Payet this month.
– Arsenal have agreed a £23 million fee with Dynamo Kiev for Andriy Yarmolenko, according to reports in Ukraine.
– According to reports in Spain, Arsenal have been told to pay Real Madrid £25 million if they wish to sign Isco this month.
– Leicester City have turned their sights on Southampton striker Graziano Pelle, according to reports.
– Representatives from MLS side DC United spoke to Milan midfielder Antonio Nocerino today, according to reports.
– According to reports, Saido Berahino looks set to stay at West Bromwich Albion, with the Baggies not now likely to sell this month.
Football tit bits:
– Greg Dyke will stand down as chairman of the Football Association in the summer after deciding not to seek re-election at the end of his four-year term, amid a bruising battle over long overdue reform of the organisation.
– Swiss prosecutors say they have been given important evidence by a whistleblower in their investigation into FIFA and its suspended president Sepp Blatter.
Kevin De Bruyne
– Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne is likely to be out for six weeks after injuring his right knee.
– Louis van Gaal has angrily dismissed reports that he offered to quit as Manchester United manager last
weekend.
– Gary Cahill is reportedly planning to leave Chelsea, the defender is concerned about his chances of playing at Euro 2016 having been dropped by manager Guus Hiddink.
– Fiorentina are expected to sell Mario Suarez to Watford on Thursday for £4.1million.
– According to Sky Sport Italia, Swansea City have agreed an £8million fee with Chievo for striker Alberto Paloschi.
– Chelsea are lining up a shock move for former Arsenal and Manchester United striker Robin van Persie if Alexandre Pato’s deal falls through, according to reports in England.
– Genoa are reportedly in negotiations with Manchester United to take Guillermo Varela on loan.
– Alex Teixeira has said that Shakhtar Donetsk turned down a €32 million offer from Liverpool for his services, while adding that he is desperate for a move to the Premier League club.
– Borussia Dortmund are in negotiations with Atletico Madrid over Oliver Torres, according to report in Germany.
– Wolfsburg have confirmed that Basel have turned down a “serious offer” for Breel Embolo.
– U.S. international and New York Red Bulls defender Matt Maizga is set to join Chelsea within the next 24 hours, according to ESPN soccernet sources.
VINA DEL MAR, CHILE – NOVEMBER 08: Kelechi Nwakali (R) of Nigeria poses with the adidas bronze boot and team mate Victor Osimhen of Nigeria poses with the adidas golden boot after the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup 2015 final match between Mali and Nigeria at Estadio Sausalito on November 8, 2015 in Vina del Mar, Chile. (Photo by Martin Rose – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
– Wolfsburg are set to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. The 17-year-old already is in Wolfsburg for contract talks, but will not join the club before 2017.
– Mainz will not sell reported Manchester United target Yoshinori Muto, the Bundesliga club have said. “We’ve put that to bed,” coach Martin Schmidt said.
– Borussia Dortmund have rejected a €10 million offer for Adrian Ramos from Chinese outfit Beijing Guoan FC, according to reports in Germany.
– Empoli sporting director Marcello Carli says Lorenzo Tonelli “is not for sale”
– Liverpool are interested in signing Borussia Monchengladbach’s Granit Xhaka after Jurgen Klopp met with the player’s agent in December, according to reports.
– Sporting director Carlo Osti says Sampdoria will “definitely” discuss Eder with Inter tomorrow.
– Shakhtar Donetsk forward Alex Teixeira is worth €50million and can be even better than Angel Di Maria, the player’s current coach Mircea Lucescu said.
Golden Eaglets
– Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has blocked the loan departure of Andreas Periera, according to reports.
– Marco Borriello is reportedly on the verge of leaving Carpi for Atalanta.
– Bordeaux want to sign Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa from Malaga before the transfer window closes, according to reports.
– According to reports in the United States, MLS side Colorado Rapids are negotiating with Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard.
– Juventus and Chelsea have reportedly opened talks for Juan Cuadrado’s future, as the Bianconeri want him permanently for less than the agreed €20million.
– LA Galaxy are keen on AC Milan midfielder Nigel De Jong, according to reports.
– Lorient have accepted a bid from Sunderland for defender Lamine Kone.
Alexandre Pato photo credit: .lemeilleurdupsg.com
– Alexandre Pato has arrived in London ahead of his proposed loan move to Chelsea.
– Swiss defender Philippe Senderos leaves Aston Villa after having contract terminated.
– Ogenyi Onazi’s agent confirms “there’s interest from Werder Bremen” for the Lazio midfielder.
Football tit bits:
– Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta insists Max Allegri won’t be tempted by Chelsea. “It’s not easy to find a better club than Juventus.”
– According to reports, Louis van Gaal is set to remain in charge for Manchester United’s FA Cup tie at Derby County on Friday, although the manager’s job is being reviewed on a match-by-match basis.
– A Chinese company that agreed to sponsor the Portuguese second division has been forced to row back on its demands that 10 Chinese players be included in the starting line-ups of the top teams following a national outcry.
– The Spanish Professional Football League (LFP) has reported offensive chanting last weekend by Málaga fans against Barcelona and Atlético fans against Sevilla to the Anti-violence Commission.
The England number one goalkeeper has been in blistering form keeping 10 clean sheets in the Premier League this season. He had an outstanding performance against West Ham at the weekend making a world class from West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet’s free kick.
Right back- Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea):
The Serbian defender had a stand-out performance against Arsenal at the Emirates stadium on Sunday and capped it off with a lovely assist for Diego Costa’s goal.
Centre back- Ashley Williams (Swansea):
The Welsh defender continued his excellent form at the weekend making 15 clearances against Everton.
Centre back- Craig Cathcart (Watford):
Craig Cathcart has been fantastic for Watford in defence this season and last weekend was not an exception. He capped off his fine defensive display with a lovely goal against Newcastle United.
Left back- Patrick van Aanholt (Sunderland):
Patrick van Aanholt continued his impressive form with a top-class performance at the weekend against Bournemouth. His attacking and defensive ability is a joy to watch. He scored his team’s only goal to salvage a draw at home on Saturday.
Newfanzone BPL Team Of The Week (Game week 23)
Centre midfield- Dele Alli (Tottenham):
The young English midfielder had an outstanding performance at the weekend and he capped it off with a fantastic volley which would definitely be a contender for goal of the season.
Centre midfield- Danny Drinkwater (Leicester City):
Danny Drinkwater had an awesome game on Saturday at the King Power stadium. He scored a lovely goal and got an assist in his team’s 3-0 win over Stoke City.
Attacking midfield- Andre Ayew (Swansea):
Andre Ayew had an outstanding performance against Everton on Sunday, scoring a lovely goal and winning a penalty for his team.
Left-forward- Enner Valencia (West Ham):
The Ecuador forward was at his best at the weekend scoring two well-taken goals against Manchester City.
Right-forward- Roberto Firmino (Liverpool):
The Brazilian forward had an awesome game at the weekend,scoring two beautiful goals and made an assist for Jordan Henderson’s goal
Forward- Sergio Aguero (Manchester City):
The Argentine striker was at his best at the weekend scoring a well-taken penalty and a beautiful strike to salvage a draw for his team against West Ham.
The veteran goalkeeper continued his blistering form in front of goal for Arsenal at the weekend. He made a couple of saves to keep his team in the match before the Gunners got on the scoresheet.
Right back- Ashley Young (Manchester United):
Ashley Young had an outstanding game against Swansea on Saturday. He darting runs caused Swansea’s defence a lot of trouble and he was also top class when defending. He capped off his performance by setting up Anthony Martial’s goal.
Centre back- James Collins (West Ham):
The Welshman had a top-class game against Liverpool at the weekend. He nullified the threat of Christian Benteke and won everything in the air.
Centre back- Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal):
Laurent Koscielny had a good defensive display against Newcastle on Saturday and scored the vital goal that kept his team on top of the Premier League table.
Left back- Patrick van Aanholt (Sunderland):
The yound Dutch defender had an outstanding performance against Aston Villa. He was “solid” defensively and opened the scoring for his team.
Centre midfield- Mark Noble (West Ham):
Mark Noble was at his best against Liverpool at the weekend. He orchestrated the Hammers play in the middle of the pack and provided the assist for Andy Carroll’s goal.
Attacking midfield- Dele Alli (Tottenham):
The English midfielder was simply “superb” against Everton. He dictated play in the midfield and scored a lovely a goal.
Attacking midfield- Willian (Chelsea):
The Brazilian midfielder showed why he has been Chelsea’s standout performer this season against Crystal Palace on Sunday. He scored a fantastic goal and set up Diego Costa’s goal.
Forward- Anthony Martial (Manchester United):
The young French forward had a standout performance against Swansea at the weekend. He was a threat to the Swansea defence with his pace on the ball and his movement. He capped off his performance with a well taken goal and provided the assist for Wayne Rooney’s goal.
Forward- Jermain Defoe (Sunderland):
The Englishman was at his best against Aston Villa at the weekend scoring two beautiful goals.
Centre forward- Wayne Rooney (Manchester United):
The English striker scored a superb back heel goal against Swansea City to give his team their first win since November 21st. Wayne Rooney’s goal moved him past Andy Cole into second on the all-time Premier League scorers’ list.
This is Game week 15 of our Bookies corner where we help Punters forecast on the best matches to put their money on.
Tobi Olubiyi’s (@tobipreety) predictions:
Italian Serie A
Bologna Vs Napoli – Napoli win:
Napoli have been impressive this season with just 1 defeat in 14games and currently the table toppers after their latest feat which was a win against Scudetto favourites Inter Milan at the Stadio San Paolo to extend their run of straight wins to 5 in all competition.
Bologna will have it tough albeit on their home turf against high flying Napoli who have not lost in 18 matches. Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain is in the form of his life scoring 12goals in 14 games.
I see Napoli getting the victory in this game against 18th placed Bologna.
Inter Milan Vs Genoa – Inter Milan win :
Genoa will be travelling to the San Siro stadium where they have not been able to get a victory since 1994 and on the back of just one win from their last 5 games. It’s also worth noting Mancini’s Inter are wounded lions at the moment after loosing their last game to League Leaders Napoli which was their first defeat in 8 matches.
The Nerazzurri will be looking to get inspiration up front from Mauro Icardi and Jovetic to get them the victory.
French Ligue 1
Bastia Vs Monaco – Monaco Win or draw:
Monaco have not been as dominating as they have been in recent years in the Ligue Un. With a fringe squad and a bunch of average players they would be lucky to make the Champions league place at the end of the season. A trip to Bastia could prove tricky as they have won only 1 of their last 5 games which included a hard-fought 3-all draw at the Stade Velodrome against Marseille.
I expect Monaco to get something out of this game and put a dent to Bastia’s current run of only defeat in their last 5 games.
St Etienne Vs Rennes – St Etienne Win:
The perennial Dark horses of the Ligue Un in recent years, St Etienne will host 9th placed Rennes who are 3 points behind them. St Etienne have recently been on a bad run with just a win in 5 matches in all competitions but to be fair to them they have come against relatively tough opposition facing Lyon, Marseille, Rosenborg, and Lille during this period. I expect Christophe Galtier’s men to get back to winning ways and get all 3 points at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.
English Premier League
Arsenal Vs Sunderland – Arsenal win :
The Gunners are having their usual mid- season injury crisis with key players picking up injuries at the same time. Sanchez, Koscienly,Carzola, Walcott, Rosicky, Coquelin, Welbeck and a couple more players are injured for arsenal. There has been very few good news coming from the arsenal medical department and the Physio’s treatment table of late but there has been indications Koscienly and Walcott could play a part in this fixture against Sunderland. Arsenal will depend on the fine form of their assist-master Ozil who has been linking up well with their attackers and creating goals therby creating a new premier League record of assists in consecutive games.
The Black cats have currently jumped out of relegation waters with an impressive back to back wins under new manager Sam Allardyce. I see Arsenal getting the win at the Emirates staking their claim for their title push.
West Brom Vs Tottenham – Tottenham win :
Tony Pulis would be fired up for this one after back to back games against London clubs, winning against Arsenal and getting a point at West Ham. He will be looking on to spur his team to a victory against Spurs another London club,Pochettino’s men haven’t lost in 13 league games since the opening day and made Chelsea labour for a goalless draw last game. I believe this new look Tottenham with Harry Kane back in form will be too strong for West Brom and they will get the victory against the baggies.
Spanish La Liga
Gary Neville photo credit, pixgood.com
Valencia Vs Barcelona – Barcelona win:
This would be the first game after the Neville brothers re-United at Valencia since after their playing days together at Manchester United. They couldn’t have wished for a tougher opposition to kickstart thier la liga campaign as the catalans will come visiting at the Mestalla. Barcelona have been scoring goals without remorse and even put 6 past their King’s Cup opponents without needing the services of Neymar, Messi or Suarez who are the most inform trio in Europe’s top 5 leagues. Valencia would have their work cut out against Luis Enrique’s team who they have managed to defeat only once in their last 6 games together. I expect Barcelona to get maximum points away from home.
Athletic Bilbao Vs Malaga – Athletic Bilbao Win:
In form Bilbao will finally return to play infront of their home fans at the San Mames after playing 4 consecutive away games in all competitions and winning their last 3 consecutively. They would need goal scoring veteran Aduriz to kill off Malaga after his run of 10goals in 13 matches this season.
18th place Malaga are still wallowing in relegation waters after a bad run of 4 consecutive defeats in their last 5 matches. The Lions of San Mames led by coach Ernesto Valverde should be able to get a win in front of their home fans.
German Bundesliga
Wolfsburg Vs Dortmund – Both Teams score (BTTS):
An exciting game at the Volkswagen arena as the 2nd placed Dortmund will be battling 3rd placed Wolfsburg. The home team would be hoping to close the wide gap of 7points in between them. There has been goals from both teams in 5 of their last 6 games against each other and I expect that to continue on saturday. Wolfsburg have been scoring a lot of goals this season, finding the net 40 times in 13 Bundesliga matches. Especially with the form of Gabonese Striker Aubameyang who has 17goals in 14games and the best shot conversion ratio in Europe’s top 5 leagues.
These two teams are difficult to separate but I expect a lot of goals and I see both teams getting on the score sheet.
Borussia Dortmund
Ingolstadt Vs Hoffenheim – Under 2.5goal:
It’s been a dream start to life in Bundesliga for newly-promoted Ingolstadt who are currently 11th on the log after an impressive 5 wins and 4 draws in their 14games so far. Hoffenheim are rooted to the bottom of the table after picking up 1 win all season. These 2 teams are not fond of scoring a lot of goals as the home team have scored a dire 10 goals in 14 games, the lowest in the league while the visitors have scored 15 goals in 14 games. I don’t expect an explosive end to end game with lots of goals, I believe both teams will score less than a total of 3 goals in this game.
Paul Ayorinde’s (@el_pauleta) predictions:
Italian Serie A
Lazio V Juventus- Double chance on Juventus:
Lazio continued their bad form last weekend when they lost to by a lone goal to Empoli while Juventus continue their resurgent as they trashed Palermo 3-0 away from home. I expect Lazio to be fired up for this match but I tip Juventus to get at least a point at Stadio Olimpico on Friday night.
Inter Milan V Genoa- Inter win:
10-man Inter Milan lost 2-1 against Napoli on Monday night in an unlucky fashion while Genoa snatched a draw at home against newcomers Carpi. I am expect Mancini’s men to get back to winning ways this weekend. I tip Inter Milan to win at the San Siro on Saturday night.
English Premier League
Swansea City V Leicester City- Double chance on Leicester:
Swansea continued their poor form last weekend losing by a lone goal against Liverpool while Leicester got a well-deserved draw against Manchester United. Swansea have picked up just 1 point in their last four premier league games, so I don’t expect them to be much of a threat against Leicester on Saturday. I tip Leicester City to get at least a point at the Liberty stadium.
West Bromwich Albion V Tottenham- Double chance on Tottenham:
West Brom picked up a point at West Ham on Sunday while Tottenham played out a goalless draw against Chelsea at the weekend to extend their unbeaten run to 13 Premier League matches. West Brom are on a good run of form, so i expect this match to tough for Tottenham. I tip Tottenham to get a point at the Hawthorns on Saturday.
Newcastle V Liverpool- Liverpool win:
Newcastle continued their abysmal form losing 5-1 against Crystal Palace in Game week 14 while Liverpool defeated Swansea 1-0 at Anfield. Jurgen Klopp’s men are in rich-vein of form after defeating Southampton 6-1 in the League Cup. I tip Liverpool to win convincingly at St James’ park on Sunday.
Spanish LIGA BBVA
Valencia V Barcelona- Barcelona win:
Valencia lost away from home last weekend to struggling Sevilla in a match that ended the reign of Nuno Espirito Santo while Barcelona continue their winning run defeating Real Sociedad 4-0 at Camp Nou. I expect Barcelona to be too strong for Valencia at the Mestalla on Saturday. I tip Barcelona to win in an entertaining match.
Deportivo La Coruna V Sevilla- Double chance on Deportivo:
Deportivo defeated Las Palmas away from home in Game week 13 while Sevilla got a lone goal victory against Valencia. Deportivo have lost just one game in their last five Liga BBVA matches, so i tip them to get at least a point at home on Saturday.
German Bundesliga
Cologne V Augsburg- Double chance on Cologne:
Cologne played a goalless draw against Darmstadt last weekend while Augsburg also played a goalless draw against Wolfsburg. I expect the match to be tight because both teams give extra details to defending. I tip Cologne to get at least a point at home on Saturday.
Wolfsburg V Borussia Dortmund- Both teams to score(BTTS):
Wolfsburg played a goalless draw with Augsburg last weekend while Dortmund defeated Stuttgart 4-1. In the last 3 Bundesliga meetings between Wolfsburg and Dortmund at the Volkswagen Arena both teams got on the score sheet, so I expect the trend to continue this weekend. I tip Both teams to score at Volkswagen Arena on Saturday night.
French Ligue 1
Ajaccio V Nantes- Double chance on Ajaccio:
Ajaccio continued their impressive form with an away win at Montpellier on Wednesday while Nantes held Olympique Lyon to a goalless draw on Tuesday night. I tip Ajaccio to get at least a point at home on Saturday.
Bookies corner returns for week 14 action after some teams have participated in the UEFA Champions League and the Europa League Competitions. Some teams however have been on break during this period and it could be an advantage as the various league actions resume in the top 5 leagues.
Tobi Olubiyi’s (@tobipreety) predictions:
French Ligue 1
PSG VS TROYES – PSG WIN: Runaway league leaders PSG have been tearing apart opponents as the matches come by, a 5 nil away win against Swedish team Malmo was the latest of their onslaught as the attacking force of Ibrahimović, Cavani, Lucas Moura and Di Maria have been unstoppable so far this season. They are yet to taste defeat in the league this season, a record shared with Bundesliga Champions Bayern Munich in the top 5 leagues.
This would be a comfortable home win for the Parisians at the Parc des Princes where they have not lost a league game since May 2014.
ANGERS VS LILLE – UNDER 2.5 GOALS: There have been less than 3 goals scored in 13 of the last 14 games involving Lille this season. Having scored just 8 league goals in 14 games they also don’t give away so many goals as they have only conceded 9 goals so far. Their opponents Angers also don’t score much as they have scored just 12 goals in 14 games conceding 9 goals in the same time. Both teams are joint second on the least goals conceded so far this season with table toppers PSG conceding a mere 7 goals.
I see this as a low scoring game, though the result could go either way and I predict a total of less than 3 goals would be scored in this match.
TOTTENHAM VS CHELSEA- TOTTENHAM WIN/DRAW: Only one team has defeated Spurs so far this season, it was a 1 nil defeat by Manchester United at Old Trafford on the opening day courtesy of an own goal. Since then Pochettino’s men have been unbeatable playing 12 matches without loosing including a 4-1 win against Man City . Chelsea on the other hand have had a season to forget as they languish in 15th place and holding the record of the worst start by a defending champion. They have only won 4 matches all season loosing 7 matches and have spent most of the season battling relegation rather than fighting to retain the league title. I don’t see Chelsea getting a win at White Hart Lane as a resurgent Harry Kane who is a nemesis to the Chelsea defence would pose a lot of threat going forward for Tottenham
MANCHESTER CITY VS SOUTHAMPTON- MANCHESTER CITY WIN: Pellegrini’s men have had a blip in form recently, failing to win in any of their last 3 matches collapsing like a pack of cards in front of their home fans against Liverpool last time out thus leaving them 2 places away from the top of the table. Southampton have had a rollercoaster season winning 5 matches in 13 games, a trip to the Etihad stadium would be coming at a wrong time when they are just gathering momentum having lost just 1 game in their last 5 matches. I see Manchester City with a fit Sergio Aguero grinding out a win and putting pressure on the league leaders Leicester City.
Italian Serie A
ROMA VS ATALANTA – ROMA WIN: 4th placed Roma have not done much wrong in the Serie A this season and the Scudetto favourites are just 3 points away from top spot. Rudi Garcia’s men never look like loosing in front of their home fans and they are yet to loose at the Stadio Olimpico this season despite playing tough oppositions like Juventus, Barcelona, Bayern Leverkusen and arch rivals Lazio. Atalanta has only 1 away win all season, so a trip to the Stadio Olimpico which has become a fortress would be an uphill task. I tip Roma to get a win inspired by the good form of Salah, Iturbe, Dzeko and Pjanic who have played well for them this season.
PALERMO VS JUVENTUS WIN- JUVENTUS WIN: The old ladies had a night mare start to their scudetto defence this season but they seem to have gotten their season on an upward thrust as they are unbeaten in their last 5 matches in all competitions including a win against English Giants Manchester City in a crucial top of the table clash in the Champions League. Star striker Dyabala would be returning to face his old side and eyes would be on him if he would be able to sting his former team. Palermo haven’t been in the best for this season with just 4 wins from 13 games, they have also failed to win against Juventus in their last 6 matches. I believe Juventus will do enough to get a win away from home, their firepower will be too much for Palermo to contain.
BARCELONA VS REAL SOCIEDAD – BARCELONA WIN: Barcelona are the most inform team in Europe’s top 5 leagues at the moment putting different clubs to the sword and scoring a lot of goals even during the absence of star player Lionel Messi. Suarez and Neymar have carried the burden of leading the club to glory as they have not lost in their last 9 games scoring 32 goals in the process including 4 goals against Real Madrid and 6 goals against Roma. Sociedad have just parted ways with Coach David Moyes and have lost 3 of their last 5 games. The deadly trio of Messi, Suarez and Neymar will all be available for selection in this match and I expect them to inspire Barcelona to another dominating victory at the Camp nou where Soceidad have not won in 14 matches.
SEVILLA VS VALENCIA- BOTH TEAMS SCORE: This is a game where both teams usually score each other as they are known to attack. In the last 6 matches between these two sides both teams have failed to score only on one occasion. Unai Emery’s men are in a very bad form at the moment winning just 1 of their last 5 matches which was surprisingly against Real Madrid. Valencia have not been too fantastic themselves, currently sitting 7th on the log 4 points and 4 places above their opponents Sevilla. This is a difficult game to call, but I see both teams getting on the score sheet.
Borussia Dortmund
German Bundesliga
BORUSSIA DORTMUND VS STUTTGART- DORTMUND WIN: After 7 straight victories, 2nd placed Dortmund suffered a shock defeat in their last league game away at Hamburg in a game many felt they would get a result. The yellow submarines would be playing against relegation strugglers Stuttgart at the Segunde Igunda Park in front of their ever present and loud supporters. I expect them to get back into winning ways with an emphatic victory and putting pressure on Bayern Munich. Stuttgart are facing a team they are yet to win against in 6 league meetings.
With the form of attackers Reus, Aubameyang and Kagawa, I expect the BVB to get a solid win in this fixture.
BAYERN LEVERKUSEN VS SCHALKE 04- DRAW: Bayern Leverkusen played out a shambolic and disappointing draw against BATE Borisov in the Champions League and it would be a tough ask for them to quickly get such a horrid game behind them quite quickly. They still have a chance to progress from their group albeit against “Almighty Barcelona” in their last group game at home, so that could influence their performances in other competitions prior to that match. Schalke are currently sitting 7th on the log just behind their opponents with both teams on 20 points. It is difficult to tear these two teams apart so I would be going for a brave draw.
The Spanish shot stopper was at his best at Vicarage road on Saturday making point blank saves to help his side get an away win.
Right back – Sheamus Coleman (Everton)
The Irish defender had an outstanding performance against Aston Villa at the weekend. He was “solid” in defence and his darting runs caused Aston Villa problems throughout out the match.
Centre back – Toby Alderweireld (Tottenham)
Alderweireld continued his impressive run in the Tottenham defence against West Ham on Sunday. He capped off his solid defensive performance with a lovely goal.
Centre back – Martin Skrtel (Liverpool)
The Liverpool defender had an awesome performance against Manchester City at the Etihad on Saturday. He showed defensive solidity throughout the match and scored a breathtaking volley.
Left back – Danny Rose (Tottenham)
The English defender is having a fine season and showed that with another standout performance in Tottenham’s victory against West Ham.
Centre midfield – Ross Barkley (Everton)
The young English midfielder had an outstanding performance at the weekend. He scored two beautiful goals and created one as Everton thrashed Aston Villa 4-0.
Centre midfield – James Morrison (West Bromwich Albion)
Morrison had a top performance in midfield against Arsenal on Saturday. He worked tirelessly throughout the match and scored a brilliant goal which turned around the game for Tony Pulis’ men
Right midfield – Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool)
The Brazilian’s performance against Manchester City was outstanding. His combination with fellow Brazilian Firmino was a joy to watch. He capped off his performance with a lovely goal.
Left midfield – Roberto Firmino (Liverpool)
The Brazilian had a stand out performance against Manchester City at the weekend. His trickery on the ball and his link up with Coutinho was devastating for Manchester City. He capped off his performance with a sublime finish.
Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game Week 13)
Striker – Harry Kane (Tottenham)
The young English striker continued his fine form at the weekend scoring two beautiful goals against West Ham.
Striker – Romelu Lukaku (Everton)
Another top performance from the Belgian striker who scored two beautiful goals against Aston Villa and he reached an impressive landmark becoming the fifth player in Premier League history to score 50 goals before turning 23 (along with Fowler, Owen, Rooney & Ronaldo)
Finally the International break is over and football lovers can get back to enjoy the exciting club football that we love so much. Some key players have returned to their clubs with injuries, some with a low morale from their country’s poor performance. Some players have ended their goal droughts and some have travelled thousands of kilometres to represent their various countries which could result in fatigue and jet lag. We have to be mindful of these factors as it could affect them and their teams either positively or negatively which will influence the matches.
Ademola Adejuwon’s (@demydemo) predictions:
GERMAN BUNDESLIGA
Borussia Mönchengladbach vs Hannover-Monchengladbach Win:
Monchengladbach are in good form right now under their interim manager winning five of their last six matches in the Bundesliga and also getting good points in the UCL. They are at home this weekend against Hannover 96 who are languishing in 15th in the table, I see them getting all three points this weekend.
Schalke 04 vs Bayern Munich- Bayern Win:
League Leaders Bayern Munich travel to face Schalke this weekend. Schalke have not be doing well in recent times compared to their visitors who welcomed back back winger Arjen Robben back into the team. The Dutch man should pose a lot of threat going forward for the Bavarians coupled with the finishing prowess of Robert Lewandowski and trickery of Douglas Costa,they should get all the maximum points in Schalke.
Hamburg vs Dortmund-Dortmund Double Chance:
Hamburg hosts free scoring Borrusia Dortmund. Dortmund have scored 35 goals in the Bundesliga this season with 21 of those coming off the boot of Gabonese Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and Marco Reus. Hamburg have not been so convincing at home this season scoring only 4 goals in total. Dortmund have lost 1 of their last six games away from home in the Bundesliga and the least they can get away from Hamburg should be a draw.
Lorient vs Paris Saint-Germain- PSG Double Chance:
Seventh place Lorient host league leaders PSG this weekend in the Ligue 1. Lorient have lost only a game at home this season,but they are yet to face an attack as fierce as the Parisians. Zlatan helped his team qualify for the Euros and hopefully he’ll bring the form back to the Ligue 1 this weekend. Its very tricky to call as Moukandjo can be a very tricky customer for the PSG defence to handle. I tip the Parisians to get at least a point away from home.
ITALIAN SERIE A
Fiorentina vs Empoli- Fiorentina Win:
League leaders Fiorentina hosts Empoli this weekend. Fiorentina have been in fine form this season Kalinic,Babacar and ilicic all in fine form this season. They should be too hot to handle for Empoli who have lost 3 away games out of 6 in the Serie A this season.
Inter Milan vs Frosinone- Inter win:
Inter have been grinding out the 3 points this season that sees them behind the league leaders Fiorentina with just goal difference. Roberto Mancini’s team are too strong to break with Melo,Kondogbia, Guarin in the midfield for them. They hosts Frosinone this weekend and they should be able to get all 3 points from Frosinone who are yet to win away from home.
Hellas Verona vs Napoli- Over 1.5goals:
Napoli are away to strugglers Hellas Verona. Napoli have been player Scintillating football this season as Higuain seems to be finding the back of the net quite easily coupled with the effort of Lorenzo Insigne. Hellas Verona have been a shadow of themselves last season as they are yet to manage a win this season.
SPANISH LA LIGA
Valencia vs Las Palmas- Valencia Win:
Valencia seem to have gotten their season right back on track and this weekend they welcome newboys Las Palmas to the Mestalla. Las Palmas are yet to win away from home this season and they shouldn’t expect any pity from Valencia who are firing from all cylinders at the moment.
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE
Watford vs Manchester United- Over 1.5goals:
Watford have done relatively well in the EPL this season with Nigerian Odion Ighalo banging the goals for them. They host title hopefuls Manchester United this weekend. The Red Devils have not been too convincing this season though they are two points behind the leaders. The last four times United have visited Watford they left with a win but this time it looks tricky as United might miss the service of Frenchman Martial while Watford seem to be getting better every game.
Tottenham vs West Ham- Over 1.5goals:
Spurs hosts WestHam in a London Derby at White Hart Lane this weekend. WestHam have the 2nd highest number of away wins this season beating Arsenal and Manchester City in the process. Bilic is without Star Man Dimtri Payet this weekend which will definitely affect his team going forward. Spurs are also Unbeaten in the league since their opening day defeat to Manchester United and they are a free scoring side and also very compact too. It’s difficult to predict the winner in this derby but there would be goals.
The Newcastle goalkeeper was on top of his game on Saturday making string of saves in the Geordie’s 1-0 win at Bournemouth. He made more saves than any other goalkeeper in the premier league in Game week 12.
Right back- Kyle Walker (Tottenham):
The English defender had an excellent performance on Sunday. He was in command of his defensive area for most part of the match and he pushed forward to support the attack.
Centre back: Ryan Shawcross (Stoke City):
The English defender was at his best against Chelsea on Saturday night co-ordinating his back line. He dealt with the threat of Chelsea striker Diego Costa with ease in Stoke’s 1-0 win at the Britannia.
Centre back- Scott Dann (Crystal Palace):
Scott Dann had an impressive defensive display against Liverpool on Sunday. His goal was the difference in their 2-1 win at Anfield.
Left back- Erik Pieters (Stoke City):
The Dutch defender had an excellent performance against Chelsea at the weekend. He was solid defensively and pushed forward whenever the situation arises.
Centre midfield- Moussa Dembele (Tottenham):
The Belgian midfielder had a brilliant performance against Arsenal. He was strong and imposing in the midfield against the gunners. He had the highest passing rate in the North London derby on Sunday.
Newfanzone Barclays English Premier League team of the week (week 12)
Centre midfield- Manuel Lanzini (West Ham United):
The Argentine midfielder continues to impress after another excellent performance at the weekend. His goal against Everton on Saturday was fantastic.
Right-wing- Jesse Lingard (Manchester United):
The Englishman has brought spark to a Manchester United’s attack that couldn’t score a premier league goal for three weeks. His overall performance against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday was outstanding and he capped it off with a stunning goal.
Left-wing- Mesut Ozil (Arsenal):
The German midfield had an excellent performance against Tottenham on Sunday. He provided an assist for the sixth league match in a row,making him the first to do so in a single season.
Striker- Jamie Vardy (Leicester City):
The Englishman can’t stop scoring and he is on the verge of matching Ruud van Nistelrooy’s 10 Premier League goals in a row.
Striker- Harry Kane (Tottenham):
After a slow start to the season,the young English striker has now scored six goals in his last four matches, including a tidy finish in Tottenham’s draw at the Emirates on Sunday.
The prestigious Golden Boy award which is reserved for players under the age of 21 was first established by the Italian newspaper Tuttosport. The award was won by Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling last year and boasts Wayne Rooney (2004), Lionel Messi (2005), Sergio Agüero (2007) and Mario Götze (2011) among its former winners.
The winner of the award, which is voted for by journalists from 30 newspapers around the world, will be announced in
December.
The full shortlist:
Andrija Zivkovic (Partizan Belgrade)
Nathan Ake (Watford; on loan from
Chelsea)
Moses Simon (KAA Gent)
Dele Alli (Tottenham)
Héctor Bellerín (Arsenal)
Jordon Ibe (Liverpool)
Kelechi Iheanacho (Manchester City)
Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Chelsea)
Anthony Martial (Manchester United)
Divock Origi (Liverpool)
Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
Adama Traoré (Aston Villa)
Marco Asensio (Espanyol)
Zakaria Bakkali (Valencia)
Ángel Correa (Atlético Madrid)
Danilo Barbosa (Valencia)
Munir El Haddadi (Barcelona)
Dahoud Mahmoud (Borussia Monchengladbach)
Alen Halilovic (Barcelona)
Francisco Rodríguez (Wolsfburg)
Sandro Ramírez (Barcelona)
Kingsley Coman (Bayern Munich)
Pierre-Emile Hojberg (Schalke)
Adnan Januzaj (Borussia Dortmund; on loan from Manchester United)
Max Meyer (Schalke)
Ricardo Kishna (Lazio)
Adama Traoré (Monaco)
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic (Lazio)
Alessio Romagnoli (Milan)
Mario Pasalic (Monaco; on loan from Chelsea)
Adrien Rabiot (PSG)
Jason Denayer (Galatasaray; on loan
from Manchester City)
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