TRANSFER ROUND UP FOR JANUARY 28th 2016

Done deals:

– Sampdoria have signed Andrea Ranocchia from Inter Milan on loan for the rest of the season.

– Sporting Lisbon have completed the loan signing of Sebastian Coates from Sunderland.

SIGNING: #afcb sign young goalkeeper Marius Adamonis on loan until the end of the season: https://t.co/GXFTR335W8 pic.twitter.com/amuJbBKjKZ

— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) January 28, 2016

– Bournemouth have announced the signing of Marius Adamonis on loan for the rest of the season.

– Rennes have announced the signing of striker Kermit Erasmus from Orlando Pirates.

– Reims have confirmed the loan signing of Thievy Bifouma on loan from Espanyol until the end of the season.

– Carpi have signed Jonathan de Guzman from Napoli until the end of the season.

Today’s report and rumours:

– According to reports, Norwich are awaiting a response from Chelsea regarding Patrick Bamford’s availability.

– Bordeaux President Jean Louis Tiraud has confirmed that the club has pulled out of the possibility of signing goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

– Javier Zanetti says Inter are “still working” to sign Sampdoria striker Eder

– Newcastle and Sunderland are reportedly competing to sign Leeds United defender Sol Bamba

Bafetimbi Gomis, photo credit http://www.swanseafc.pl

– 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.

Andriy Yarmolenko
photo credit: Aleksandr Osipov
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– 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.

Paul Ayorinde

Transfer Round Up For January 11th 2016 And FA Cup Fixtures…,

Done deals:

– Werder Bremen have signed Thanos Petsos from Rapid Vienna.

– Newcastle sign Senegalese midfielder Henry Saivet from Bordeaux on five-and-a-half-year deal.

– Bournemouth re-sign striker Lewis Grabban from Norwich on a three-and-a-half year deal.

– Bologna have confirmed the signing of striker Sergio Floccari from Sassuolo .

Today’s reports and rumours:

– Rio Ferdinard has urged Manchester United to do everything in their power to sign John Stones and Raphael Varane.

– Chelsea are preparing a £30million offer for AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca, according to reports.

– Southampton are interested in Palermo midfielder Oscar Hiljemark, according to reports in Italy.

Jurgen Klopp
photo credit: Asia Joanna
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– Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has ruled out a move for Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato.

– West Brom, Besiktas and AC Milan are all interested in Lyon’s Henri Bedimo, according to L’Equipe.

– Brazilian defender Dante has vowed to stay at Wolfsburg amid MLS links.

– Mauricio Pochetinno says Andros Townsend remains part of the squad and could be involved in the coming games.

– Steven Pienaar might leave Everton for Ajax Amsterdam, according to his business manager Rob Moore.

– Barcelona have opened talks with Ivan Rakitic over a new deal, the midfielder has revealed.

– Borussia Dortmund boss Thomas Tuchel says he is not planning to sell reported Liverpool target Neven Subotic, calling him “an important part of the group” despite his lack of game time this season.

– According to reports, Federico Fazio is nearing a Tottenham exit having failed to impress at White Hart Lane, with former club Sevilla a likely destination.

– Zenit St Petersburg and Guangzhou Evergrande are preparing offers for Inter midfielder Fredy Guarin, according to reports.

– Barcelona are interested in Manchester City target Leroy Sane, reports German publication Kicker.

Lionel Messi
credit: hy.wikipedia.org

– Chelsea defender Baba Rahman will remain at the club until at least the summer, his advisor has confirmed.

– Inter President Erick Thohir says they have ‘an ample squad’ but ‘it’s possible we’ll make some good buys in the market.’

– Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels has insisted that he is not feeling any pressure to sign a new deal with the club.

– Tottenham have emerged as the bookmakers’ favourites to sign Fulham forward Moussa Dembele, ahead of Crystal Palace and Manchester United.

– Lyon have rejected a loan offer from Hellas Verona for the services of Lindsay Rose, according to L’Équipe.

– Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s agent assures it’s “too early” for his client to consider leaving Lazio.

– Fiorentina and Spartak Moscow have agreed terms for on-loan Genoa midfielder Tino Costa, according to reports.

– Torino have reportedly submitted a bid for Sevilla’s Ciro Immobile.

– PSG winger Ezequiel Lavezzi’s move to Inter in January ’is possible’ according to his agent’s associate.

– Swansea manager Alan Curtis has said the club are willing to listen to offers for Jonjo Shelvey.

– Acccording to reports, Aston Villa manager Remi Garde hopes to be handed a large transfer fund to turn around the club’s season after talks with the board.

Football tit bits:

Lionel Messi, FIFA Ballon d’Or

– Louis van Gaal believes Manchester United supporters should be happy their team are through to the fourth round of the FA Cup and suggested that traffic around Old Trafford, rather than apathy, was one of the reasons why many supporters left before the end of the 1-0 win over Sheffield United.

– Paris Saint-Germain have become embroiled in a row with the London-born rapper M.I.A after she wore a modified version of the club’s shirt in one of her music videos. Via Twitter, the 40-year-old has revealed a letter sent to her
record company, Universal Music, by Jean Claude Blanc, PSG’s deputy CEO, last month complaining about the fact she
can be seen in the video for Borders, a song about the global migrants crisis, wearing a white PSG shirt with the words ‘Fly Pirates’ across the middle, as opposed to ‘Fly Emirates’, the French club’s sponsor.

– Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d’Or award for an unprecedented fifth time. The 28-year-old Argentine had 41.33% of the vote, with Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo (27.76%)second and Barca’s Neymar (7.86%) third. “It’s a very special moment for me to be back here on this stage winning again, after being there in the audience watching as Cristiano won for two years “, Messi said after picking up the award.

– FA CUP FOURTH ROUND DRAW

Wycombe or Aston Villa v Man City

Northampton or MK Dons v Chelsea

Bury or Bradford v Hull City

Colchester v Tottenham or Leicester

Ipswich or Portsmouth v Bournemouth

Oxford v Newport or Blackburn

Crystal Palace v Stoke

Carlisle or Yeovil v Everton

Nottingham Forest v Watford

Shrewsbury v Sheffield Wednesday

Exeter or Liverpool v West Ham

Huddersfield or Reading v Walsall

Derby County v Man Utd

Arsenal v Burnley

Eastleigh or Bolton v Leeds

West Brom or Bristol City v Peterborough

Transfer round up for January 10th 2016

Done deals:

– Bournemouth have completed the signing of Benik Afobe from Wolverhampton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee.

– Monaco have completed the signing of Wagner Love from Corinthians.

Benik Afobe, photo credit: Æthelred
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Today’s reports and rumours:

– According to reports, Barcelona are considering a £50 million summer move for Aaron Ramsey.

– According to reports in Italy, Newcastle United are interested in Sassuolo striker Gregoire Defrel.

– Liverpool have reached an agreement to bring Alexandre Pato to Anfield, according to reports.

– Manchester United are closing in on a £12million January deal for the “Japanese Messi” Yoshinori Muto, according to reports.

– According to reports in England , Jurgen Klopp has become “increasingly frustrated” Daniel Sturridge repeated fitness problems and would consider offers in the region of £25million for the 26-year-old forward.

More details
Chelsea’s Willian (left) and Radamel Falcao,
photo credit: @cfcunofficial (Chelsea Debs) London
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– Chelsea striker Radamel Falcao looks set to stay at Stamford Bridge for the rest of the season after Monaco ruled out taking him back early.

– According to reports in England, Everton will make a £21million January move for Dynamo Kiev winger Andriy Yarmolenko, as the Toffees are worried the 26-year-old will attract big suitors if he impresses with Ukraine at Euro 2016.

– Swansea are poised to make a £4million bid for AC Milan midfielder Nigel de Jong, according to reports.

– Newcastle will make a club-record £18m bid for West Brom striker Saido Berahino this month,according to reports.

– Aston Villa defender Philippe Senderos hopes he can return to Switzerland in the January transfer window, as he looks for regular football again.

– Genoa are lining up a move for out-of-favour Aston Villa striker Libor Kozak, according to reports.

– Swansea City want to bring Manchester City striker Wilfried Bony back to the club, according to reports.

Louis Van Gaal

– Louis van Gaal says Manchester United are unlikely to be active in the January transfer window, and would not be drawn on speculation linking the club with Lazio’s Felipe Anderson.

– According to reports, Premier League side Aston Villa, Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen and Italian club AS Roma are all lining up to sign Arsenal right-back Mathieu Debuchy this month.

– Lille are closing in on the signing of left-sided player Julian Palmieri,according to reports.

– Wolves have submitted an offer for Rennes’s full-back Cheikh M’Bengué, according to L’Équipe.

– Hellas Verona are keen on signing Lyon defender Lindsay Rose, according to reports.

– Bournemouth have bid for Norwich City striker Lewis Grabban, according to Sky Sports sources.

– Fiorentina are considering a swoop for central defender Luis Neto from Zenit St Petersburg, according to reports.

Romelu Lukaku signs for Everton Fc- photo credit evertonfc

– Everton striker Romelu Lukaku, 22, wants to join Paris St-Germain or Real Madrid in the summer rather than Manchester United.

– According to reports, Debreceni forward Norbert Balogh is expected to fly in today for a Palermo medical.

– Sampdoria striker Eder has reportedly turned down a huge offer from Chinese club Jiangsu Suning FC.

– Mauricio Pochettino would not be drawn on speculation linking Andros Townsend with a move away from Tottenham in January.

– Manchester United forward Adnan Januzaj failed to show the necessary desire during his loan spell at Borussia Dortmund, coach Thomas Tuchel has said.

Football tit bits:

Pep guardiola
photo credit: Thomas Rodenbücher
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– Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure’s agent has questioned the credentials of Pep Guardiola and claimed his grandfather could win the league in Spain and Germany.

– Carles Puyol believes it would be a “huge injustice” if Lionel Messi did not win an unprecedented fifth Ballon d’Or on Monday.

– Real Madrid’s midfielder Luka Modric believes Saturday’s 5-0 drubbing of Deportivo La Coruna in La Liga in Zinedine Zidane’s debut as the club’s manager shows the former Real and France great is the right man for the job.

– Gonzalo Higuain insists Napoli must not get too excited about being Winter Champions. “Being there in May is what counts.”

Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game week 17)

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper-Wayne Hennessey (Crystal Palace):

The Welsh shot-stopper was at his best at the weekend, making three crucial saves to guarantee his team got a victory at Stoke.

Right back- Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea):

Ivanovic had a stand-out performance against Sunderland at the weekend. He put in a good shift at defence and capped it off with a lovely goal.

Centre back- Per Mertesacker (Arsenal):

The German defender had an exceptional game against Manchester City on Monday night. He made nine clearances, five aerial clearances and won 100 percent of his aerial duels.

Centre back- Craig Cathcart (Watford):

The Northern Ireland international defender was a “rock” in the heart of Watford’s defence against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.

Left back- Charlie Daniels (Bournemouth):

The English defender had a lovely defensive display against West Bromwich Albion at the weekend and scored the penalty that sealed all three points for Bournemouth.

Centre midfield- Etienne Capoue (Watford):

The French midfielder had an outstanding performance against Liverpool at the weekend. He was in control in the midfield and made Liverpool look weak in the middle of the pack.

Centre midfield- Alexander Tettey (Norwich City):

The Norway international midfielder was impressive against Manchester United at the weekend. He was in control of the midfield and scored a beautiful solo goal to help Norwich City to get their first victory at Old Trafford in the Premier League era.

Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game week 17)

Right midfield- Oscar (Chelsea):

The Brazilian midfielder was at his best against Sunderland at the weekend. He was creative and made Chelsea play a fluid attacking style that has been lacking in the Blues’ team this season. He capped off his outstanding performance by scoring a penalty.

Attacking midfield- Mesut Ozil (Arsenal):

The German playmaker continued his blistering form on Monday night against Manchester City. He assisted Arsenal’s two goals and took his assist tally to 15 assist in 17 league matches.

Left midfield- Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City):

The Algeria midfielder continued his scoring form at the weekend scoring two well-taken penalty against Everton to guarantee Leicester City will be top of the league at Christmas.

Striker- Odion Ighalo (Watford):

Just like his captain Troy Deeney said in the post-match interview, Odion Ighalo is “on fire”. He scored two beautiful goals in the 3-0 demolition of Liverpool on Sunday.

Jose Mourinho and The 3 Year Curse!

This Writer has observed that Jose Mourinho has never exceeded The 3 year Barrier throughout his managerial Career: below is a list of clubs previously managed by the Portuguese Gaffer and this supports the line of reasoning that Jose Mourinho has got a 3 year “Shelf Life” as manager.

2000 Benfica
2001–2002 União de Leiria
2002–2004 Porto
2004–2007 Chelsea
2008–2010 Inter Milan
2010–2013 Real Madrid
2013–2015 Chelsea

Mourinho’s second coming to Stamford Bridge was supposed to be for a very long time according to Jose Mourinho himself when he penned an initial four-year deal, he was quoted as saying he would like to be at Chelsea for a very long time.

But unlike other Illustrious Coaches who have achieved the same kind of success like Mourinho, the “Special one” just can’t exceed the “3 year Curse” no matter what he does.

This Writer Also Believes that Jose’s Style of Management is largely to blame for this “three-year Curse”. Mourinho is not afraid to take on anyone from fellow managers to the media and in some cases administrators, and yes some of his utterances might come across as brash sometimes but Jose Mourinho was a delight to the media who would latch-on to every word he spoke.

He would at times adopt a “take no prisoners” approach during his Post match comments and even pre match interviews would sometimes come across as controversial.

Jose Mourinho
photo credit: In Mou We Trust
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Mourinho would also take on his players publicly in what some would consider as bizarre, yes Mourinho was truly outspoken

This as also put him on the wrong side of the FA a couple of times, but love him or hate him, Jose Mourinho his a coached that has achieved so much success in a very short time, and he still has so much to offer.

Ironically the longest-serving coach in the history of the English Premier League Sir Alex Ferguson only last week advised that the Chelsea Management allow Mourinho to turn things around.

This advise must have fallen on “deaf ears” though, has the Club today put out a statement on its website stating that “Chelsea Football Club and Jose Mourinho have today parted company by mutual consent”

The Club Thanked him for his contribution to the Club ” All at Chelsea thank Jose for his immense contribution since he returned as manager in the summer of 2013.

The statement also listed as his achievement with the club “His three league titles, FA Cup, Community Shield and three League Cup wins over two spells make him the most successful manager in our 110-year history”

The Blues have had a torrid time in the league this season which as seen them loose 9 games from 16 games played with 4 of those defeats coming at home.

The English Champions have gone from Top to bottom in an almost inexplicable manner which had led the self-styled “Special One” to confess that he was astonished at the teams current situation.

Mourinho had even gone as far as condemning his players on more than one occasion, and this did not in any way improve the fortunes of the team.

Back to back loses against teams that Chelsea would have crushed on the pitch normally i.e Bournemouth and Leicester definitely proved that this were not normal times, the last defeat by Table Toppers Leicester changed the question from if Mourinho will get the sack to when he would be sacked.

While the Sword had been dangling over Jose Mourinho’s head for months now, its however some sort of poetic justice that his chelsea team lost to the man who Mourinho Replaced after he got sacked by Chelsea that’s talking about current Leicester coach Claudio Ranieri in 2004.

José Mourinho
photo credit: Aleksandr Osipov
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Mourinho’s Bust up and eventual falling out with Club Physio Eva Canero had many tongues wagging and His failure to beef up his team are some of the factors that may have played a part in how Chelsea Season turned out.

But while the Champions Of England Struggled in the domestic league the reverse was the case on the continent as they made it into the round of sixteen.

In Conclusion Jose Mourinho is yet to exceed 3 years as the manager of any club, but that has not in any way taken away the fact that he has won so many laurels in his seeming short spells at some of the biggest clubs in some of the top leagues in Europe this however falls short of his own target of staying long at a club.

Newfanzone BPL Team of the week (Game Week 16)

Formation: 4-2-1-3

Goalkeeper- Joe Hart (Manchester City):

The England No 1 shot stopper was at his best at the weekend making top saves against a rejuvenated Swansea attack. He made six saves at the Etihad on Saturday.

Right back- Allan Nyom (Watford):

The Cameroonian international defender had an outstanding game against Sunderland at the weekend. He had a good defensive performance, minimising the threat of Jermain Defoe from the flank and he set up Odion Ighalo’s 10th goal of the season.

Centre back- Jonas Olsson (West Bromwich Albion):

Jonas Ollson was a “rock” at the heart of West Brom’s defence at Anfield on Sunday. He co-ordinated the Baggies defence, making 10 clearances in the process. He capped off his fine performance by scoring a lovely header against the Reds.

Centre back- Simon Francis (Bournemouth):

Simon Francis had an outstanding game against Manchester United at the weekend. He was “solid” in defence and made runs forward to support the attack.

Left back- Nathan Ake (Watford):

The young Dutch defender continued his fine form against Sunderland at the stadium of light on Saturday. His darting runs help his team pile a lot of pressure on Sunderland’s defence.

Centre midfield- Yohan Cabaye (Crystal Palace):

The French midfielder dictated the pace of game in the midfield and capped off his fine performance with a well-taken goal.

Centre midfield- Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal):

The Welshman is enjoying life in the centre of the Arsenal’s midfield. His creativity and build-up play is a joy to watch. He capped off his stand-out performance with a fine goal.

Attacking midfield- Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City):

The Algerian playmaker continued his “magical” form against Chelsea on Monday night, setting up Jamie Vardy’s 15th goal of the season and also scoring a stunning goal to send Claudio Ranieri’s men back to the summit of the Premier League table.

Forward- Joshua King (Bournemouth):

The former Manchester United striker tormented the “red devils” young defence through out the match and scored the winning goal.

Forward- Odion Ighalo (Watford):

The Nigerian international striker continued his blistering form against Sunderland, he simply can’t stop scoring as he got his 10th goal of the season at the weekend.

Forward- Romelu Lukaku (Everton):

The Belgian striker is “on fire” scoring in his sixth successive Premier League match in Everton’s 1-1 away draw with Norwich.

Van Gaal Without 9 first team Players For Bournemouth Clash

Manchester United Manager’s job just got harder with nine of his first team players either out with injuries or suspended, German Midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has been suspended by the FA for 3 games, while Luke Shaw And Antonio Valencia have both undergone surgery and are not expected back until next year.

Ander Herrera, Chris Smalling and Matteo Darmian are expected to return to action before christmas while Captain Wayne Rooney and Phil Jones Should join the squad just before the new year.

Van Gaal has come under a lot of criticism lately due to the poor string of results his team as put together and fans are beginning to question the “Van Gaal Way”.

The Man United under the Dutch manager tend to keep possession of the ball a lot but find it difficult to turn possession into goals.

Manchester United’s Chris Smalling also out injured

Van Gaal has his work cut out for him though, especially with the way the team crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday against Wolfsburg in Germany, and this long list of injured players will definitely have a bearing on the way the team plays.

United Academy product have however had a chance to stake a claim to the first team spots with players like Guillermo Varela, Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, featuring in the Champions League game against Wolfsburg they just might become a regular feature in the United line up this season, On the bright side Morgan Schneiderlin is available for selection against Bournemouth.

Meanwhile the Man United en of year party has been called off following the recent spate of poor results.

Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game Week 15)

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper- Artur Boruc (Bournemouth):

The Polish shot stopper who just returned from injury had a solid performance against Chelsea at the weekend. He made five saves to help his side get a rare away win.

Right back- Matteo Darmain (Manchester United):

Darmain had an outstanding performance for Manchester United against West Ham at the weekend.

Centre back- Steve Cook (Bournemouth):

Steve cook was a rock at the heart of the cherries defence against Chelsea. He made seven clearances and two blocks against the blues and assisted Glenn Murray’s winning goal.

Centre back- Winston Reid (West Ham United):

Reid had an outstanding performance at the heart of West Ham defence. He co-ordinated the Hammers defence and almost got a goal when his header hit the woodwork in the first half.

Left back- Erik Pieters (Stoke City):

Pieters had a stand-out performance against Manchester City at the weekend. His darting runs down the left side was a joy to watch and defensively he was rarely beaten by Manchester City creative players.

Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game Week 15)

Centre midfield- Georginio Wijnaldum (Newcastle United):

The Dutch midfielder was at his best against Liverpool at the weekend. He was energetic and creative in the midfield and he capped it off with a beautiful goal.

Centre midfield- Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal):

Ramsey played in the heart of Arsenal midfield against Sunderland and excelled in that position making 124 passes, he capped off his excellent midfield display with a well-taken goal.

Attacking midfield- Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City):

A top-class performance by the Algerian winger at the weekend scoring an hat-trick against Swansea.

Attacking midfield- Marco Arnautovic (Stoke City):

The Austrian winger had an outstanding performance against Manchester City on Saturday. After just 15 minutes, he had scored a brace and could have gotten an hat-trick before half-time but was denied by the woodwork. It was a sensational first half display by the former Inter Milan man.

Attacking midfield- Xherdan Shaqiri (Stoke City):

The Swiss winger had an excellent performance against Manchester city at the weekend. He was full of pace,skills and trickery throughout the match and assisted Marco Arnautovic’s two goals.

Striker- Odion Ighalo (Watford)

The Nigerian striker continued his goal scoring-form against Norwich City at the weekend. He was brought down for the penalty that was scored by Troy Deeney and he scored a beautiful goal to seal the victory.

Newfanzone BPL team of the week (Game Week 14)

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper- Costel Pantilimon (Sunderland):

The Romanian goalkeeper had a standout performance on Saturday against Stoke City. He made four saves in the match to gives his team their second clean sheet in a week.

Right back- Adam Smith (Bournemouth):

The English defender sparked life into the Cherries team. His passing and darting runs brought life into Bournemouth’s attack and he capped it off with the “Goal of the weekend”

Centre back- Chris Smalling (Manchester United):

The Englishman was at his best once again for Manchester United at the weekend. He kept record-breaking Jamie Vardy quiet for most part of the game. He made nine clearances against Leicester City on Saturday.

Centre back- Kurt Zouma (Chelsea):

The young French defender was outstanding against Tottenham on Sunday. He was commanding in the air and nullified the threat of Harry Kane.

Left back- Patrick van Aanholt (Sunderland):

The Dutch defender had an outstanding performance against Stoke City and capped it off with a “cracking” goal.

Centre midfield- Fabian Delph (Manchester City):

The English midfielder had a good game at the weekend,building up play from the midfield. He capped off his outstanding performance with a goal.

Centre midfield- James McArthur (Crystal Palace):

The Scottish midfielder had a standout performance against Newcastle on Saturday. He “bossed” the midfield and scored two lovely goals.

Forward- Yannick Bolasie (Crystal Palace);

The Congolese winger was at his best at the weekend tormenting the Newcastle defenders with his trickery and pace. He capped it off with two well taken goals.

Forward- Junior Stanislas (Bournemouth):

The English winger had a standout performance against Everton scoring two crucial goals to help his team rescue a point at Vitality Stadium.

Forward- Ross Barkley (Everton):

Barkley continued his fine form at the weekend against Bournemouth. He had an outstanding game setting up Funes Mori’s goal and scoring a goal.

Striker- Jamie Vardy (Leicester City):

The Englishman continued his extraordinary goalscoring form at the weekend. He broke Ruud van Nistelrooy record by scoring in 11 consecutive premier league matches. Vardy is now just one short of equalling the all-time English record of 12 straight games set by Jimmy Dunne in the 1930s.

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
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

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 6) September 2015

Sticking with the 4-3-3 attacking formation again this week the lads of @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: Adrian (West Ham United)

Adrian had an outstanding performance at the Etihad on Saturday. He made seven saves in the match,if not for him Manchester City would have won against West Ham.

Right back: Simon Francis (Bournemouth)

Francis had an impressive game against Sunderland on Saturday, he provided defensive solidity to his team and was always a treat going forward.

Centre back: Winston Reid (West Ham United)

The New Zealand centre-back was at his best against League leaders Manchester City on Saturday,making 21 clearances at the Etihad.

Centre back: Kurt Zouma (Chelsea)

The young French defender had an impressive game against Arsenal on Saturday. He performance in the heart of the Blues defence was brilliant throughout the match and he capped it off with a fine header to give Chelsea the lead.

Left Back: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea)

The Spanish defender had an excellent performance against Arsenal. He “bossed” is side of the pitch making sure the Gunners couldn’t penetrate Chelsea’s defense through the left wing.

Midfielder: Etienne Capoue (Watford)

Capoue had a brilliant performance providing steel to the Hornets’ midfield against Newcastle on Saturday. He started most of Watford’s attacking build up and he set up one of Quique Flores’ men two goals.

Midfielder: Matt Ritchie (Bournemouth)

Matt Ritchie was at his best against Sunderland, his creativity and work rate in the midfield was a delight to watch. He capped off his eye catching performance on Saturday with a magnificent goal.

Midfielder : Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City)

The Algeria midfielder continues to impress for the Foxes. He sparked Leicester’s second half fightback scoring a penalty in the 51st minute in a 2-2 draw at Stoke.

Forward: Callum Wilson (Bournemouth)

The Cherries striker continued his good goal scoring form when he turned veteran defender Younes Kaboul on the edge of the box to score a beautiful goal against Sunderland on Saturday.

Forward: Odion Ighalo (Watford)

The Nigerian striker was at his best on Saturday against Newcastle scoring two well-taken goals.

Forward : Anthony Martial (Manchester United)

The teenage French striker continued his spectacular start to his Manchester United career scoring two well taken goals against Southampton at St. Mary’s stadium on Sunday. Anthony Martial has scored with all three of his shots on target in the premier League.