Newfanzone Bookies Corner (Game week 12)

The bookies corner returns with match forecasts on league games after the UEFA fixtures at mid-week. Some teams had their fine form dented, some regained their scoring ability while some teams picked up wins that could turn around their season.

Tobi Olubiyi’s (@tobipreety) predictions:

English Premier League

Manchester United’s Old Trafford a.k.a The Theatre of Dreams, photo credit http://www.guts.com/en https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

Manchester United Vs West Brom – Manchester United win:

Manchester United have been on a “yoyo run” recently, with their first win in 5 games coming on Tuesday night against Russian club CSKA Moscow. They drew the other 4 games including a shocking goalless draw against 2nd tier Middlesbrough in the league cup where they were eventually knocked out on penalties. I see them turning their fortunes around after this recent win and Tony Pulis’ West Brom would not be able to stop the Red Devils at old Trafford especially on a run of 3 defeats from their last 5 games.

Liverpool Vs Crystal Palace – Liverpool win:

New manager Jurgen Klopp has brought in the attitude and effectiveness of a German team into this Liverpool side and it has been obvious in all his games in charge. His philosophy of gegen pressing (counter-pressing) was also evident as he made a statement with a rousing win at Stamford Bridge against a troubled Chelsea side where they haven’t won in 6 previous attempts. I see the Reds following up their good run with another win against Crystal Palace under manager Jurgen Klopp who is yet to taste defeat after 5 games.

Italian Serie A

Sampdoria Vs Fiorentina – Both teams to score:

The viola have been in impressive form this season currently topping the Serie A table scoring 22 goals in 11 games. It would be a difficult game travelling to 9th placed Sampdoria who have only lost 3 league games so far this season. I believe both teams would get on the score sheet in this match.

AC Milan Vs Atalanta – AC Milan win :

Milan coach Mihajlovic still has a lot to prove at the San Siro in his first season, but it’s safe to say he isn’t far from the summit, currently 6th placed on the table and 5 points away from the top spot. The San Siro is without doubt a fortress and will be an advantage for the Rossoneri against Atalanta who have failed to win in their last 3 away games. Milan are also on a good run of form winning their last three matches ,they will come out with maximum points in this game.

Spanish La Liga

Celta Vs Valencia – Both teams to score:

Celta have been the surprise package of the season currently 3rd on the table behind Real Madrid and Barcelona with just 3 points separating them from 1st position. They have had a good season with surprise wins against Barcelona and their only defeat in the last 5 games was against league leaders Real Madrid. Celta have scored 21 goals in 10 games while host Valencia have scored 11 goals, with Valencia’s attacking threat of Rodrigo, Negredo and Alcacer. I believe both teams will get on the score sheet in this game.

Neymar
photo credit: Marc Puig i Perez
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Barcelona Vs Villarreal – Barcelona win:

Luis Enrique’s men have easily survived life without injured super star Messi. Neymar, Suarez and wonder kid Sergio Roberto have led the team to superb form with 4 wins in their last 5 games. Villarreal have been impressive so far this season as well but a trip to Camp Nou at a time when Barcelona are trying to displace Real Madrid from the top of the table before the El Classico would be too much to handle for the Yellow Submarines. I expect Barcelona to keep up their winning form as the El Classico draws closer.

German Bundesliga

Bayern Munich Vs Stuttgart – Bayern Munich Win both Halves:

Bayern suffered a shocking goalless draw away at Frankfurt in their last league match which ended their perfect run into the new season. The result however didn’t loosen their tight grasp on the Bundesliga as they are still on top of the log with 5 points ahead of 2nd placed Dortmund. Pep Guardiola and his men showed signs of their strength and dominance with a resounding 5-1 victory over Arsenal. I believe Stuttgart who are just above the relegation zone on goal difference stands no chance of stopping a barrage from the Bavarians as I expect Bayern to win the first half and the second half.

Bayern Leverkusen Vs Cologne – Bayern Leverkusen win :

Schmidt’s Leverkusen have showed so much resilience in the last 5 games scoring a lot of goals but conceding too, they have scored 17 goals in the last 5 games in all competitions conceding 12 goals. A 4-4 draw and 3-2 defeat to Roma, a 4-3 win against Stuttgart and a 6-0 win against second-tier Viktoria Koln in the DFP Pokal were among the games. The addition of Mexican striker Chicharito has been a bargain so far this season and Leverkusen would be better off if they can just shut it at the back. I see Bayern Leverkusen winning against Koln who have only won 4 games so far this season.

French Ligue 1

Caen Vs Guingamp – Under 2.5 goals: Guingamp have only scored 2 goals or more in only two of their last 5 games. While Caen have not scored more than 1 goal in any of their last 5 games. This stat isn’t uncommon in the French league as the fans are used to lack of goals when the smaller teams play each other. I expcect this to be a cagey game with less than 3 goals from both teams but the result can swing either way.

Lyon Vs St Etienne – Lyon win or draw‎(Double chance):

Lyon were treated to a lacklustre home defeat in the Champions league when they played Russian Champions Zenit. They can keep up the push for the Ligue Un with a win against top 4 contender St Etienne. Lyon currently sit in 2nd place and 10 points behind run away leaders PSG and they need to prove their title challenging credentials against an highly rated opponent. I give Lyon win or draw at home on Sunday. ‎

Paul Ayorinde’s (@el_pauleta) predictions:

Italian Serie A

Roma V Lazio- Double chance on Roma:

Both sides were involved in shock results last weekend as Roma were unable to unlock a stubborn Inter Milan defence, while Lazio were humiliated in front
of their home fans by AC Milan. I expect the Rome Derby to be an open and entertaining match,but I tip Roma to get at least a point at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

Napoli V Udinese- Napoli win:

Napoli were held when they visited Genoa on Sunday afternoon, while Udinese also held an in-form Sassuolo side to a goalless draw. I am tipping Napoli to get back to winning ways this weekend.

English Premier League

Leicester City V Watford- Double chance on Leicester:

Leicester City continued their Blistering form when they defeated West Brom at the Hawthorns in Gameweek 11. Watford also got a win against high-flying West Ham last weekend. Both sides are in
excellent form and i expect this match to be exciting all through. I am tipping Leicester City to get at least a point at home on Saturday.

Arsenal V Tottenham- Both teams to score(BTTS):

Arsenal picked up an excellent win away at Swansea in Gameweek 11 while Spurs
picked up a comfortable win against Aston Villa on Monday night. Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin and Laurent Koscielny are both doubtful for the North London Derby,so i expect Arsenal to struggle defensively and Tottenham are unbeaten in the league since Game Week 1. I am tipping both teams to score in an entertaining derby at the Emirates on Sunday.

Aaron Ramsey
Arsenal Vs Liverpool
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Aston Villa V Manchester City- Man City win:

Aston Villa lost 3-1 against Tottenham on Monday night while Manchester City defeated Norwich last weekend. It will be Remi Garde’s first match as Aston Villa manager but I expect the attacking prowess of Pellegrini’s men to be too much for the the Villians. I am tipping Manchester City to get an away win on Sunday.

German Bundesliga

Borussia Monchengladbach V Ingolstadt- Monchengladbach win:

Monchengladbach continue their excellent form when they defeated Hertha Berlin away from home last week while Ingolstadt held Schalke 04 to a 1-1 draw away from home. Ingolstadt are very strong defensively but I expect Monchengladbach’s attack to be too strong for them. I am tipping Borussia Monchengladbach to win convincingly on Saturday.

Bayern Munich V Stuttgart- Bayern Munich win and Over 2.5 goals:

Bayern Munich’s 100% winning run in the league ended last week against Eintracht Frankfurt while Stuttgart picked up an home win against Darmstadt. I am tipping Bayern Munich to win convincingly at Allianz Arena on Saturday.

French Ligue 1

Lille V Bastia- Under 2.5 goals:

Lille played a goalless draw against Nice last weekend while Bastia won at home against Caen 1-0. Lille has scored 4 goals at home this season while Bastia have scored just 3 goals away from home. I expect this match to be a low-scoring encounter. I tip both sides to score less than 3 goals in this match.

Spanish Liga BBVA

Atletico Madrid V Sporting Gijon- Atletico Madrid win:

Diego Simeone’s men played a 1-1 draw against Deportivo La Coruna last weekend while Sporting Gijon defeated Malaga 1-0 at home. I expect Atletico Madrid to get back to winning ways this weekend, so i am tipping them to get a slim home win on Sunday.

FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid, Dani Alves vs Cristiano Ronaldo
photo credit: Marc Puig i Perez
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Barcelona V Villarreal- Barcelona win:

Barcelona defeated Getafe 2-0 last weekend while Villarreal defeated Sevilla 2-1 at home. This match promises to be an entertaining encounter with lots of goals but i tip Barcelona to get a slim home win at Camp Nou on Sunday.

Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game Week 11)

Formation: 4-1-2-3

Goalkeeper- Jack Butland (Stoke City):

The English goalkeeper was outstanding at the weekend making six saves against Newcastle. He made two world-class saves to deny Moussa Sissoko and Jamaal Lascelles from scoring against his team.

Right back- Hector Bellerin (Arsenal):

The young Spanish defender had a solid performance against Swansea at the weekend. He combined with Joel Campbell effectively on the right-wing throughout the match. Defensively, he snuffed out the threat of Swansea’s Jefferson Montero.

Centre back- Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal):

Another top defensive performance from the French defender against Swansea at the weekend and he capped it off with a goal.

Centre back- Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City):

The Argentine defender had an outstanding performance at the heart of Manchester City’s defence and scored a thumping header to give his team the lead against Norwich City at the weekend.

Left back- Nathan Ake (Watford)

The young Dutch defender had an impressive performance against West Ham at the weekend. He made a lot of darting runs which helped his team to put a lot of pressure on West Ham’s defence. Defensively, he made more tackles than any other defender in the match.

Defensive midfield- Dele Alli (Tottenham):

The 19-year-old English midfielder had an impressive performance against Aston Villa on Monday night. His passing skills and calmness in midfield was a joy to watch, he capped off his night with a lovely goal.

Attacking midfield- Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City):

Riyad Mahrez was at his best against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. It has been a wonderful season so far for the Algerian playmaker, his pace and dribbling skills are simply breathtaking and he capped off his sensational performance with two beautiful goals.

Attacking midfield- Mesut Ozil (Arsenal):

The German midfielder continued his blistering form by grabbing two assists in Arsenal’s 3-0 win at Swansea on Saturday.

Forward- Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool):

The Brazilian forward had an outstanding performance against Chelsea on Saturday scoring two beautiful goals.

Forward- Arouna Kone (Everton):

The Ivorian striker had an impressive performance against Sunderland on Sunday scoring his first premier league hat-trick.

Forward- Odion Ighalo (Watford):

The Nigerian striker continued his goal scoring form with two lovely goals against West Ham on Saturday.

Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game Week 10)

Here is the NEWFANZONE BPL TEAM OF THE WEEK as chosen by the lads @ The Newfanzone

Formation: 4-1-2-3

Goalkeeper- Costel Pantilimon (Sunderland): The “giant” Romanian goalkeeper had an outstanding Tyne-wear derby. He stopped Moussa Sissoko, Georginio Wijnaldum and Jack Colback from scoring in the first half.

Right-back- Kyle Walker (Tottenham): The English defender’s pace and athleticism was a joy to watch against Bournemouth on Sunday.

Centre back- Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal): Laurent Koscielny was a “rock” in defense against Everton. He coordinated his team’s back four and also got on the scoresheet.

Centre back- James Tomkins (West Ham): James Tomkins had an excellent performance against Chelsea at the weekend. He made four vital interceptions against Chelsea.

Left back- Aaron Cresswell (West Ham): Aaron Cresswell was on top of his game against their London rival’s Chelsea. His pace was a problem for Chelsea’s defence all through the match, he capped off his outstanding performance with a pin-point cross for Andy Carroll’s winning goal.

Defensive midfielder- Moussa Dembele(Tottenham): The Belgian midfielder has up his game in recent weeks, he had an outstanding performance in midfield for Tottenham and scored a well-taken goal.

Attacking midfielder- Almen Abdi (Watford): The Switzerland midfielder had an excellent game against Stoke City at the weekend. He orchestrated watford’s game with his quality and scored his team’s second goal.

Attacking midfielder- Mesut Ozil (Arsenal): Mesut Ozil dazzled against Everton at the weekend and got his seventh Premier league assist of the season.

Forward- Andre Ayew (Swansea): The Ghana international has an outstanding game at the weekend. He scored the winning goal for his team to ease the pressure on Gary Monk.

Forward- Jamie Vardy (Leicester City): The English striker continued his impressive start to the season against Crystal Palace at the weekend. He scored for a seventh Premier league match in a row, that is a huge accomplishment.

Forward- Harry Kane (Tottenham): The HurriKane is back” The young English striker got an hat-trick against Bournemouth at the weekend.

Newfanzone Bookies Corner (Game Week 10)

This is Game week 10 of our Bookies corner where we help Punters forecast on the best matches to put their money on.

Ademola Adejuwon’s (@demydemo) predictions:

Arsenal vs Everton- Arsenal Win:

The Gunners have been in fine form of late and have not conceded a goal in their last 3 games. Alexis,Walcott and Ozil have been fantastic for the Gunners this season as they unlock any defence with their trickery,pace and Intelligence. The Toffees lost at home last time out scandalously to Manchester united and they will look to at least get a point away to Arsenal to show that they can compete for a place in Europe this season. The Gunners might be too good for Everton as I see them taking all three points in this encounter.

Manchester United vs Manchester City-Both teams to score (BTTS):

Manchester United’s Old Trafford a.k.a The Theatre of Dreams, photo credit http://www.guts.com/en https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

The Manchester derby would be fierce this weekend as all three points is important for both teams in the title race. The two teams have a mixture of youth and experience; Sterling, De Bruyne, Yaya Toure & Wilfred Bony for City while Martial, Schweinstieger, Mata & Rooney for the Red Devils. Manchester City have scored 11 goals in their last two EPL Fixtures which shows how deadly they are offensively and with Mata and Martial Manchester too will definitely get a goal or two in this game.

Spanish La Liga

Celta Vigo vs Real Madrid- Both teams to score(BTTS):

Celta Vigo are giant killers and they’ve been doing excellently in the league. The last big side they hosted (Barcelona) were walloped 4-1. Rafael Benitez’s side have been shrewd at the back with good and dogged defending. Nolito have been a handful this season but the firepower of Ronaldo & co might be too for the Celta Vigo side. A safe pick is that Both teams will surely get Goals.

Barcelona vs Eibar- Barcelona win:

Barcelona welcome Eibar to the camp Nou. The Catalans have struggled to get goals after the injury to their talismanic forward Messi. The defending Champions now look to Suarez and Neymar for goals. Neymar was immense last time out in the league and the Brazilian alongside Rakitc and Suarez would definitely ensure Barcelona get all three points against Eibar at the Camp Nou.

Atletico Madrid vs Valencia: Atletico Madrid double chance:

This is the biggest game in the LaLiga this weekend as Champions league campaigners Atletico Madrid and Valencia face each other at the Vincente Calderon. Atletico have not been doing too bad in the league though with the kind of squad they have they ought to be ontop of the league with the dwindling form of rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid. Diego Simeone knows how to prepare his team for big games like this and expect them to at least get a draw against a good Valencia side.

German Bundesliga

Bayern Munich vs Cologne- Bayern Win and over 2.5:

Bayern Unbeaten run finally came to a halt on Tuesday when they were humbled at the Emirates against Arsenal. In the league, Bayern have been invincible and with 7 points above second place Borussia Dortmund they looked to have wrapped up the league title. Pep will want to get back to winning ways after that blip against Arsenal so we might expect a mauling of Cologne at the Allianz Arena.

Borussia Dortmund vs Augsburg– Dortmund win:

Dortmund have been on a relatively poor run after their explosive start to the season. Tuchel’s side welcome Augsburg to the Signa Iguna park and they know that a win against Augsburg will still give them a chance to go at the league title. Aubameyang will once again lead their forward line and the Gabonese have hardly disappointed so far this season.

Moenchengladbach vs Schalke- Both teams to score (BTTS):

Moenchengladbach form in the league have been poor compared to last season when they qualified for the Champions league. They host Schalke this weekend in what might probe to be the game of the week this season. Both sides are inconsistent and very unpredictable. A safe pick would be Both team to score as they would both come out to attack each other from start to finish.

Italian Serie A

Juventus vs Atlanta- Juventus Double Chance:

Juventus have not scored a goal in their last two games which will come has a worry to coach Massimilliano Allegri. The Italian Champions are in the lower end of the table and need to start winning games if they want to defend their title or qualify for the UCL. Atlanta are a bogey side for the big teams but with Dybala,Morata and Zaza Juventus should at least get a draw at home to Atlanta.

Fiorentina vs Roma- Fiorentina Double Chance:

In form Fiorentina hosts Roma in the Serie A this weekend. Montella’s team would want to bounce back from their defeat to rivals Napoli in the league by defeating another title contender Roma who have been inconsistent this season . Fiorentina are good as a unit and it would be difficult for Roma to break them down especially away from home.

Paul Ayorinde’s (@el_pauleta) predictions:

Italian Serie A

Fiorentina V Roma- Both teams to score(BTTS):

This match promises to be a cracker and the game of the week in Serie A. Fiorentina lost 2-1 in Naples last weekend while Roma thrashed Empoli 3-1 in Rome. I am tipping both teams to score in an entertaining match at Stadio Artemio Franchi on Sunday.

Palermo V Inter Milan- Double chance on Inter:

Palermo recorded their third win of the season last weekend while the Nerazzurri played out a 0-0 draw with rivals Juventus. Inter Milan has been in top form this season and i expect Mancini’s men to get at least a point at Renzo Barbera on Saturday night.

Spanish Liga BBVA

Barcelona V Eibar- Barcelona win and over 2.5 goals:

Eibar played a 1-1 draw against Sevilla last weekend while Barcelona defeated Rayo Vallecano 5-2 at the Camp Nou. Barcelona are getting their “groove” back and I expect them to get an high-scoring victory against Eibar on Sunday.

Atletico Madrid V Valencia- Double chance on Atletico Madrid:

Atletico Madrid got a vital win against Real Sociedad away from home last weekend while Valencia thrashed Malaga 3-0 at the Mestalla. Atletico Madrid are very strong at home and i expect them to get a least a point at home when they play Valencia on Sunday.

German Bundesliga

Bayer Leverkusen V Stuttgart– Bayer Leverkusen win:

Bayer Leverkusen’s last two games have ended in draws and expect them to step it up this weekend and get a win against struggling Stuttgart. I tip Bayer Leverkusen to get a win at the BayArena on Saturday afternoon.

Borussia Dortmund V Augsburg- Dortmund win:

Borussia Dortmund got back to winning way last weekend, Augsburg are struggling this season and have won just one match in the last 5 matches. I am tipping Borussia Dortmund to win at home on Sunday.

French Ligue 1

Reims V Monaco– Double chance on Monaco:

Reims have lost their last two matches and it will be difficult game for them when they host Monaco at home on Sunday. I tip Monaco to get at least a point at Stade Auguste Delaune II

English Premier League

Leicester City V Crystal Palace– Double chance on Leicester:

Leicester City fought back from 2-0 down to rescue a point against Southampton in Gameweek 9 while Crystal Palace lost 3-1 at home against West Ham. I expect Leicester City to continue their good form this weekend. I tip the home team to get at least a point on Saturday.

Chelsea’s Eden Hazard takes on Norwich City’s Jonny Howson
photo credit: Ben Sutherland
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West Ham V Chelsea- Both teams to score(BTTS):

West Ham picked up an impressive win at Crystal Palace last weekend while Chelsea won at home against Aston Villa. This match promises to be an exciting one with lot of goals. I predict both teams to score at Upton park on Saturday.

Bournemouth V Tottenham– Tottenham win:

The Cherries lost 5-1 away from home last weekend while Tottenham played a 0-0 draw at home against Liverpool. Bournemouth have been struggling in the past weeks, so i expect Tottenham’s attack of Kane, Njie and Eriksen to be too strong for the BPL newcomers. I predict Tottenham to get a slim win away from home on Sunday.

Newfanzone Bookies Corner (Game week 9)

Finally the International break is over and football lovers can get back to enjoying 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 or bad treatment from the coach during the series of fixtures. Some players have ended their goal droughts and some have travelled thousands of kilometres to represent their various countries which could result in fatigue. We have to be mindful of these factors as it could affect them and their teams either positively or negatively which will influence the outcome of the matches.

Paul Ayorinde’s (@El_pauleta) predictions:

English Premier League

Tottenham V Liverpool– Both teams to score(BTTS): Spurs sit 8th in the Premier League heading into their clash with Liverpool hoping to give Jurgen Klopp a debut to forget as Liverpool manager. I expect a tight match with both teams scoring a least goal at White Hart Lane.

Watford V Arsenal– Arsenal win with over 2.5 goals: Quique Sánchez Flores’ side host Arsenal on Saturday evening hoping to upset their more fancied opponent. Arsenal are in great form and brimming with confidence following their 3-0 win over Manchester United in Game Week 8. I expect Arsenal to get an easy win at Vicarage Road on Saturday.

Manchester City V Bournemouth- Man City wins: Manchester City come back from the international break with what i will term an “injury crises”. Sergio Aguero, David Silva and Yaya Toure are all doubtful for Saturday’s game against injury ravaged Bournemouth. The Cherries have lost their last two Premier League games on the road and away trips don’t get much tougher than The Etihad. I tip Manchester City to win at home on Saturday.

Spanish BBVA Liga

Real Madrid V Levante- Real Madrid win with Under 4.5 goals: Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways after their 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in Game Week 7. Levante will be brimming with confidence after defeating table topping Villarreal in Game Week 7. I expect Real Madrid to get a low-scoring win at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday afternoon.

Villarreal V Celta Vigo- Both teams to score(BTTS): it is the battle between first and second on the league table at the El Madrigal on Sunday. I expect the match to be an entertaining and tight match between two good sides. I tip both teams to score.

German Bundesliga

Werder Bremen V Bayern Munich– Bayern win with over 2.5 goals: Bayern Munich will be looking to continue their blistering form against Anthony Ujah’s Werder Bremen on Saturday. Bayern’s Mario Gotze is injured and Kingsley Coman is doubtful for the weekend game but I expect the Bavarians to be too strong for their opponent. I tip Bayern Munich to win convincingly at the Weserstadion.

Eintracht Frankfurt V Borussia Monchengladbach– Double chance on Monchengladbach: Borussia Monchengladbach will be hoping they can continue their recent progress in the Bundesliga against Frankfurt on Saturday. Monchengladbach have won their last three matches in the league and I expect them to get at least a draw away from home on Saturday evening.

French Ligue 1

Bastia V Paris Saint-Germain- PSG win: PSG will be looking to tighten their grip on first position as they travel to Stade Armand-Cesari-Furiani on Saturday. Paris Saint-Germain have won the last 3 ligue 1 at Bastia’s staduim, so i tip PSG to get a win on Saturday afternoon.

Italian Serie A

Inter V Juventus- Both teams to score(BTTS): it will be another installment of the Derby della Madonnina, as Inter Milan welcomes rivals Juventus to the San Siro on sunday. In the last six meetings between these sides, both teams have registered at least a goal against each other, so i don’t see that trend ending on Sunday. I expect both teams to score at Stadio Guiseppe Meazza on Sunday night.

Torino V AC Milan- Double chance on Torino: After a fantastic run Torino lost their second game of the season to new boys Carpi while AC Milan were humilated at home by Napoli. I expect Torino to bounce back from the defeat against Carpi and get at least a poiny at home on Saturday night.

Newfanzone BPL Team of the week (Game week 8)

Formation: 4-1-2-3

Goalkeeper: Heurelho Gomes (Watford)

The Brazilian shot stopper had a top performance at the weekend,he made a save from a stunning overhead kick from Steve cook and also saved a late penalty from Glenn Murray to rescue a point for Watford in their 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday.

Right-Back: Carl Jenkinson (West Ham)

Carl Jenkinson has been one of the top performer this season for West Ham and he continued his blistering form by scoring a smart goal to start his team’s comeback against Sunderland at the weekend.

Centre-Back: Jose Fonte (Southampton)

The Portuguese defender was in total control and his calmness in the defence was a joy to watch against Chelsea on Saturday.

Centre-Back: Gabriel (Arsenal)

Gabriel had an excellent performance for Arsenal against Manchester United on Sunday. He made eight clearances,three tackles and two interceptions to help his side to a comfortably 3-0 win over Manchester United at the Emirates.

Left-Back: Christian Fuchs (Leicester City)

Christian Fuchs had an outstanding game against Norwich at the weekend. His darting runs offered width to his team and helped Leicester get a deserved win at Norwich.

Midfielder: Yohan Cabaye (Crystal Palace)

The French midfielder was a delight to watch against West Brom at the weekend,his lovely free-kick helped Bolasie open the scoring before sealing the game with a well-taken penalty.

Midfielder: Christian Eriksen (Tottenham)

The Danish midfielder is back to his best and announced it with two lovely free-kick goals against Swansea City.

Midfielder: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

The Belgian play-maker continues his blistering form with two assist and a magnificent goal against Newcastle United at the weekend.

Forward: Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)

Alexis Sanchez was a thorn in the flesh of Manchester United defenders especially Matteo Darmain who he tormented all through the first half,he capped off his outstanding performance with two lovely goals.

Forward: Saido Mane (Southampton)

The Senegalese forward was sensational against Chelsea on Saturday,he ran the Blues defence ragged and scored a lovely goal to seal a famous win for his team at Stamford Bridge.

Forward: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City)

Sergio Aguero was simply unstoppable,scoring five goals against Newcastle with ease. The Argentine striker became the fifth player to score five goals in a premier league game. His five goals came in the space of 23minutes and 34 seconds, making it the fastest five goal haul in Premier league history.

Newfanzone BPL Team of the week (Game week 7)

Formation : 4-4-2

And here is the Game week 7 Newfanzone Barclays English Premier League team of the week, its a 4-4-2 attacking formation and its based on performance of the players last weekend, the Newfanzone would however like to hear from you, so if you’ve got your own team of the week, of have a comment about our’s please feel free to tweet @NewFanzone of Like our Facebook page Newfanzone or simply drop us a line at fanzone.fans@gmail.com, lets keep the conversation going

Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham)

The French goalkeeper was at his best against Manchester City on Saturday. He made a top-class save from Raheem Sterling when his team were trailing 1-0 and that was the turning point in the game. Hugo Lloris made seven saves in the match to thwart the Sky Blues and that is world class goalkeeping.

Right back: Kyle Walker (Tottenham)

The England defender had a great game at the weekend, making clean tackles and cancelling out the threat of Raheem Sterling in the second half of the match.

Centre back: Kevin Mbabu (Newcastle)

The 20-year-old defender made his premier league debut on Saturday against Chelsea and his performance was outstanding. Kevin Mbabu made more tackles than any other defender in Game week 7.

Centre back: Virgil van Dijk (Southampton)

The Dutch defender had a poor game a week ago when he was run ragged by Manchester United’s Anthony Martial but he bounced back on Saturday against Swansea. He dictated the play in the defence and made sure Swansea striker Bafetimbi Gomis was ineffective. He capped off his outstanding performance with a well-taken goal.

Left back: Nacho Monreal (Arsenal)

The Spanish defender had an outstanding game against Leicester City on Saturday and he capped it off by setting up Olivier Giroud’s goal.

Midfielder: Ramires (Chelsea)

The Brazilian midfielder came in as a substitute and within six minutes of him been on the pitch, he scored a wonderful goal which brought his team back into the match. His second half cameo was exceptional and he was unlucky not to get Chelsea the winning goal in the closing stages of the match.

Midfielder: Eric Dier (Tottenham)

Eric Dier has been a revelation this season in the defensive midfielder role and he had another solid performance against Manchester City’s star-studded midfield. He capped off his excellent performance with a lovely goal.

Winger: Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)

The Chilean winger is back to his best after his match winning performance at the King Power Stadium on Saturday. He was involved in most of Arsenal attacking furore and scored his first premier league hat-trick.

Winger: Erik Lamela (Tottenham)

Erik Lamela was a thorn in the flesh of Manchester City defenders at White Hart lane on Saturday. He showed wonderful skill and composure to round back-up
Manchester City goalkeeper Willy Caballero to slot home the fourth goal for his team.

Striker: Romelu Lukaku (Everton)

The Belgian striker had a wonderful second half performance against West Bromwich Albion on Monday night scoring two good goals.

Striker: Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool)

Daniel Sturridge showed Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool fans what they have been missing by scoring two lovely goals against Aston Villa at the weekend.

Newfanzone BPL Team Of The Week (Game week 5)

The lads @Newfanzone have chosen the Barclays Premier League team of the week, what do you think? have you got yours? would like to have it published here? if yes please send it to fanzone.fans@gmail.com, you can also post it on our Newfanzone page on Facebook. Please remember to follow @Newfanzone on twitter @El_Pauleta, @tobipreety, @demydemo and @solarogers and we will follow you right back.

Formation : 4-3-3

Goalkeeper: Jack Butland (Stoke City)

The English goalkeeper made phenomenal saves from Theo Walcott, Santi Cazorla and others at the Emirates on Saturday. If not for him, it would have been a “cricket score”,he made 10 saves at the Emirates.

Right Back: Ritchie De Laet (Leicester City)

The Belgian defender had a lovely game against Aston Villa on Sunday, he scored a goal and set one up as Leicester City came back from 2 goals down to beat Villa 3-2.

Left Back : Brendan Galloway (Everton)

The 19-year-old defender was a “beast” in defence. He coped with the pressure of defending against the Chelsea and his cross for Steven Naismith’s first goal was fantastic.

Centre Back: Daley Blind (Manchester Utd)

The Dutchman’s performance against Liverpool at Old Trafford was extraordinary. He scored a fine goal which was definitely made in the training ground and made two clearances off the line.

Centre Back: John Stones (Everton)

John Stones’ performance in Everton’s 3-1 win over Chelsea was fantastic and it shows just why Jose Mourinho was desperate to sign him in the last transfer window.

Centre Midfielder: Eric Dier (Tottenham)

The young Englishman played in the holding midfield role for Tottenham at the weekend and he was so impressive. He made the somewhat weak Tottenham midfield look solid.

Centre Midfielder : Ryan Mason (Tottenham)

The 24-year-old ran the show for Tottenham in midfield against Sunderland, he linked perfectly with Eric Dier and he created a lot of chances from the middle of the pack. He capped off a lovely performance by finishing a fantastic team goal.

Attacking Midfielder: Dimitri Payet (West Ham United)

The French midfielder has been fantastic for West Ham since joining in the summer from Marseille and he continued his blistering form against Newcastle scoring two lovely goals.

Forward: Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City)

The Irish playmaker has been the “main” man for Norwich City this season. He assisted Cameron Jerome for the first goal against Bournemouth and put the game well beyond the visitors with a superb solo goal.

Forward: Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City)

Aston Villa were leading Leicester 2-0 as at 61 minutes before Riyad Mahrez took control of the match and dictated the pace. He made a cross from a corner for Ritchie De Laet to start Leicester’s comeback and made an exquisite chip for Nathan Dyer to score the winner. It was a lovely and wonderful performance by the Algerian forward.

Forward: Steven Naismith (Everton)

The Scottish forward came on as a substitute and tormented Chelsea all afternoon. He score the “perfect” hat trick against the champions; first goal was a header, his second was with his left foot and his third was with his right.

Adebayor Dropped From Spurs Squad

Emmanuel Adebayor’s woes both on and off the pitch are not about to end as the Togo born strikers’s name is not on Tottenham Hotspurs roster for the Premier League or Europa League.

It is Believed that Spurs Manager Mauricio Pochettino had declared the gangling forward surplus to requirements hence his being linked with a move away from white Hart Lane.

Adebayor has had some challenges of the field also which saw the Togo Ace take to Facebook to clear the air on certain issue he had with members of his extended family.

Emmanuel Adebayor
photo credit: Rory
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

Planned moves away from Tottenham Hotspurs didn’t materialise and pundits where especially surprised when the transfer window closed with Adebayor not moving away from White Hart lane either on loan or permanently.

The failure of Spurs to get the season long Target Saido Berahinho has not in any way softened the management stance as regards declaring Emmanuel Adebayor “surplus to requirement” and his situation is now even compounded by the Club’s refusal to register him for the Barclays English Premier League and the Europa League.

Newfanzone BPL Team of the week (Week 23)

The lads at the Newfanzone have chosen this weeks BPL Team of the Week, do you agree? Or have you got your own team of the week? If so please send mail to fanzone.fans@gmail.com, you can also follow @Newfanzone on Twitter and like our Facebook page

Formation: 4-4-2 Diamond

Goal Keeper: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham)

Lloris had a standout performance at the weekend making a lot of point blank saves to help his team get a win.

Right Back: Hector Bellerin (Arsenal)

The young Arsenal defender continues to impress in the right back position and capped off his outstanding performance against Aston Villa with his first Arsenal goal.

Left Back: Patrick Van Aanholt (Sunderland)

The Dutch defender gave a man of the match performance against Burnley,co-ordinating in defence and building up attack throughout the game. He created the assist for Sunderland’s second goal of the match.

Centre defender: Kurt Zouma (Chelsea)

The young French defender justified the faith his manager has in him with standout performance against the league champion Manchester City. He was commanding in defence throughout the game winning all five duels he competed in on Saturday.

Centre defender: Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle United)

Coloccini had an excellent performance at the KC stadium on Saturday. Fabricio Coloccini’s clearance off the line was a telling moment in the game,as he helped his team keep their first clean sheet since November.

Defensive midfielder: Daley Blind (Manchester United)

The Dutch midfielder had an outstanding game at Old trafford at the weekend,building up attack and co-ordinating the midfield. He gave an assist to Robin van Persie with a sublime pass and was credited with the assist for Wes Morgan’s own goal.

Midfielder: Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)

The German midfielder was back to his best and was the tormentor in chief of the Aston Villa side. He scored and created a lot of attacking moves throughout the match.

Midfielder: Christian Eriksen (Tottenham)

The Danish midfielder continues to give the Spurs fans something to rejoice about,his sublime free kick goal was a delight to watch.

Attacking midfielder: Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)

It was another outstanding performance by the English midfielder and he capped it off with a lovely goal.

Forward: Jonathan Walters (Stoke City)

It was a terrific performance by the Republic of Ireland striker scoring a perfect hat-trick (left foot, right foot, head) against QPR at the Britannia stadium at the weekend

Forward: Harry Kane (Tottenham)

The young English striker continues to be a revelation this season scoring goals with ease. He scored a lovely brace against West Bromwich Albion at the weekend

Deadline Day Done Deals, Gist and Rumours

The January transfer window is winding up but some leagues would still have their windows for a few more days while some its “transfer deadline day” tomorrow but are are some of the latest transfer gist spiced with some AFCON Updates and other titbits as compiled by our man Paul Ayorinde.

you can follow Paul on twitter: @El_Pauleta on twitter and also follow @NewFanzone and we will follow you right back, lets keep the discussion going

Our Twitter handle will tweet regular news breaks and this is also available on our Facebook page

Done Deals:

– Roma have completed the signing of Seydou Doumbia from CSKA Moscow for a fee of €14.4million.

Seydou Doumbia, photo credit spiritual.de

– Palermo have signed Paraguayan defender Danilo Ortiz from Cerro Porteno.

– Sampdoria have confirmed the signing of Alfred Duncan from Inter Milan

– AS Monaco have completed the loan signing of forward Matheus Thiago De Carvalho from Brazilian side Fluminense.

– Levante have announced the signing of Fulham forward Bryan Ruiz on loan for the remainder of the season

– Malaga have completed the signing of Chidebere Nwakali from Manchester City on a two and a half year loan deal.

– Monaco have completed the signing of Burkina Faso international Alain Traore on loan from Lorient, with an option to buy the striker permanently at the end of the season.

– Genoa have sent Ioannis Fetfatzidis on loan to Chievo for the rest of the season

Today’s football reports and transfer rumours:

Brown Ideye, photo credit fifa.com

– According to reports, West Brom have rejected a bid from Qatar’s Al Gharafa for Ideye Brown

– West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has said the club’s move to sign Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher appears to be off, the Man Utd player is now being linked with West Brom.

– According to reports, West Ham midfielder Mark Noble is attracting interest from Queens Park Rangers

– Parma are hoping to conclude a deal to sign Marko Livaja from Rubin Kazan in Russia.

– According to reports in France, Arsenal are interested in signing Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris

– Valencia are set to offer defender Nicolas Otamendi a deal that would see his wages double after confirming that they received a 27 million pound bid for the defender.

– According to reports, West Brom striker Georgios Samaras is free to leave the Hawthorns this month

– Al Gharafa and Al Nasr are both interested in QPR forward Adel Taarabt.

– According to reports, Manchester United’s defender Marnick Vermijl is closing in on a move to Lokeren

– Hull are in talks to sign Aaron Lennon on loan from Tottenham until the end of the season.

– According to reports in Italy, QPR have made an offer to sign veteran Roma striker Marco Borriello

– West Ham are reportedly interested in signing Valenciennes forward Opa Nguette

– Queens Park Rangers boss Harry Redknapp is hoping to push through a £3million deal for Wolves winger Bakary Sako before the transfer window closes.

– Roma have reportedly agreed terms with Vlad Chiriches and are close to a loan deal with Tottenham.

– AC Milan Channel confirmed Genoa winger Luca Antonelli will undergo a medical tomorrow morning.

Wilfred Zaha

– Crystal Palace striker Fraizer Campbell has told boss Alan Pardew he does not want to leave the club in the transfer window and plans to fight for his place. Palace also look set to seal the permanent signing of Man Utd Loanee Wilfred Zaha.

– Roberto Mancini insists Inter “never discussed” Antonio Cassano, but did not close the door to signing him.

– Liverpool and Arsenal are set to go head-to-head over the signing of Marseille striker Andre-Pierre Gignac.

– Pablo Armero’s agent says there is ‘no deal’ yet for the Milan player’s transfer to Genoa

– Liverpool are monitoring Hannover midfielder Lars Stindl as they seek a replacement for Steven Gerrard

– Manchester United target Aleksandar Dragovic is in talks with Inter Milan

– According to reports, Manchester City are ready to table a world-record bid to sign Cristiano Ronaldo if he decides to return to England.

– PSG defender Marquinhos is rumoured to be on Louis Van Gaal’s raider despite the Man Utd boss claiming he wasn’t doing any business this winter window

Football tit bits:

– West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says he has been advised not to play Diafra Sakho until a row with Senegal is resolved. “It is not conducive for us to be putting him on the field until it is resolved, sadly. We have covered all the rules and regulations but at this moment in time it is sensible to do the right thing and not get involved any more – that is what I was told yesterday.” Allardyce said

Frank Lampard, photo credit nycfc.com

– Frank Lampard enjoyed the opportunity to say farewell to Chelsea’s supporters after he featured in Manchester City’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge. “I was excited about the day but obviously a bit nervous,I enjoyed it. I was delighted with the reception from both [sets of] fans.” Lampard said

– Manuel Pellegrini criticised Chelsea’s style after their 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge. “Both teams have a clear style of play. Everyone wants to play in the way they think is better. He has a style. You analyse the style of Chelsea. I analyse just the style of my team. Our team tried to win the game from the first minute till the end. I’m very proud about that.” Pellegrini said

AFCON 2015 Quarter final results:

Congo 2-4 DR Congo

Tunisia 1-2 Equatorial Guinea

AFCON 2015 Quarter final fixtures:

Ghana V Guinea

Cote d’Ivoire V Algeria

Latest Football Transfer Rumours Done Deals And Titbits…

The January transfer window is yet to pick up steam but like every other window its not devoid of the drama and rumours our man Paul Ayorinde serves you a complete dish of transfer gist spiced with some AFCON Updates and other titbits.

you can follow Paul on twitter: @El_Pauleta on twitter and also follow @NewFanzone and we will follow you right back, lets keep the discussion going

Done Deals:

– Hamburg have completed the signing of Ivica Olic from Wolfsburg on an 18-month contract.

– Valencia have announced on their official website that they have released Portugal international Joao Pereira and he has signed for Bundesliga club Hannover.

– Swansea have completed the signing of Jack cork from Southampton on a three-and-a-half year deal

– Bordeaux have officially announced the signing of French midfielder Clément Chantôme from PSG on a three-and-a-half year deal

– Crystal Palace signs left-back Pape Souare from Lille

Today’s football reports and transfer rumours:

– According to Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella, Colombia winger Juan Cuadrado will be joining Chelsea.

Aaron Lennon-photo credit TottenhamFan
https://www.flickr.com/photos/49514223@N04/4543200424/in/photolist-69RkL7-gkdHu-96tv7P-7Vt6cN-7VpQN2-fSR61-8nm4iV-8npcqS-e8eoHU-e8eoLC-e88HCa-e8eoNW-e8eoRo-6ACU7n-6AH3em-6W6LmZ-7T2sMt-oSmS2D

– According to reports, Hull City are in talks with Tottenham Hotspur over a possible loan deal for Aaron Lennon

– Burnley have ruled out selling reported Liverpool target Danny Ings during the January transfer window.

– Louis van Gaal has ruled out any further signings for Manchester United in the January transfer window, while Darren Fletcher looks set to exit the club for West Ham.

– Shakhtar Donetsk CEO Sergei Palkin has said Roma’s offer for Luiz Adriano is “not satisfactory,”

– Reports indicate that Milan have reached a deal for Genoa’s Luca Antonelli.

– Juventus have confirmed that Paolo De Ceglie has ended his loan spell with Parma and that he will return to training in Turin tomorrow.

– According to reports, Fiorentina are interested in Barcelona defender Martin Montoya.

– Roma Coach Rudi Garcia reveals Roma will bring in a striker before the deadline day.

– Manchester United are ready to bid €40million for Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan, according to reports in Italy.

– Luca Marrone’s loan move from Juventus to Cordoba appears to have fallen through, after the player reportedly failed a medical.

– Manchester City midfielder Bruno Zuculini will head back to the Etihad Stadium after Valencia decided to end his season-long loan.

– According to reports in France, AS Monaco have opened talks with Tottenham over the possible transfer of Aaron Lennon.

– Arsene Wenger claims Arsenal are unlikely to make any further signings this month after completing the capture of defender Gabriel Paulista from Villarreal and teenage midfielder Krystian Bielik.

– Harry Redknapp admitted QPR have enquired about Wolves winger Bakary Sako

– Swansea City are working on a summer deal for Anderlecht striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, according to reports in Belgium.

– Tottenham are reportedly the favourites to sign Yehven Konoplyanka from Dnipro

Ronald Koeman, Southampton Manager-photo credit Ronnie Macdonald
https://www.flickr.com/photos/ronmacphotos/15339571756/in/photolist-dvZqQC-dvTKCP-dvTKzv-dvTPkP-dvTKme-dRdHsY-dR875x-dR8926-dvZmkq-dvTMCr-7YU1Ng-7YXeM3-pnvjg7-3915yv-dvTQTF-hFadrt

– Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has identified Feyenoord’s Tonny Vilhena as his first-choice replacement for Jack Cork plenty of attacking options.

– Reports suggest Bayern are no longer eager to sign Marco Reus as they have plenty of attacking options.

– Milan’s joint-CEO Adriano Galliani will reportedly meet full-back Pablo Armero to discuss the player’s possible transfer to Genoa.

– Chelsea’s Andre Schurrle is edging closing to signing for Wolfsburg, with the Bundesliga side’s director of sport saying only signatures are missing.

– Turkish club Trabzonspor are favourites to sign Real Madrid’s Germany international midfielder Sami Khedira.

– West Brom have been offered the chance to sign former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan on loan from Japanese club Cerezo Osaka.

– Juventus have reportedly reached an agreement with Fiorentina goalkeeper Neto. He will sign on a free in the summer.

– QPR are targeting a move for West Ham midfielder Mark Noble.

– Arsenal are ready to launch a last-gasp bid for Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic.

Football tit bits:

– Algeria forward Islam Slimani will miss the rest of the tournament due to a muscle injury that kept him out of their last group match against Senegal.

– Guinea striker Mohamed Yattara believes luck played a big role as they managed to advance to the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations after playing draws in all three group matches. “It is a huge joy. We didn’t have our fate into our own hands anymore. Thanks God, luck was on our side. Now, we are all happy.” Yattara said

– Midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa is not allowed to play for Nice this season, after FIFA ruled a Newcastle Under-21 game counted as a competitive match.

– David Ginola has withdrawn his controversial candidacy in the race to be the next FIFA president.

– Chelsea striker Diego Costa should change his game after picking up a three-match ban for stamping, says Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini. “It will be a good thing for him to change a little bit in the future. He doesn’t need to play in that way because he’s a very good player.” Pellegrini said

– Louis van Gaal has confirmed that Michael Carrick will miss up to a month of action for Manchester United after rupturing a muscle.