Fabregas admits Arsenal can't challenge for the title ... Talk about stating the bloody obvious Cesc

The Premier League is, as we all know, a one horse race this season with Manchester United likely to run away with the title. Ever since the second weekend of the season, one club who have certainly not looked like winning the title are Arsenal, so it came much to my surprise this evening when I read Gunners skipper, Cesc Fabregas' comments.

The Spanish international has today admitted he doesn't think challenging for the title this season is a realistic goal. This is what the 21-year old had this to say :

"It's not realistic to look at the league title now ... You can never say never but we would not be intelligent to be looking right to the top of the league ... To be intelligent now is to go game by game and think about who is directly in front of us."

Jesus Cesc, you might as well have said this four months ago. All season long Arsenal have been average at best. They have had far to many draws this season to even think of challenging for the title and for me, they will be doing extremley well to claim the final Champions League spot.

Fabregas admits Arsenal can't challenge for the title ... Talk about stating the bloody obvious Cesc

The Premier League is, as we all know, a one horse race this season with Manchester United likely to run away with the title. Ever since the second weekend of the season, one club who have certainly not looked like winning the title are Arsenal, so it came much to my surprise this evening when I read Gunners skipper, Cesc Fabregas' comments.

The Spanish international has today admitted he doesn't think challenging for the title this season is a realistic goal. This is what the 21-year old had this to say :

"It's not realistic to look at the league title now ... You can never say never but we would not be intelligent to be looking right to the top of the league ... To be intelligent now is to go game by game and think about who is directly in front of us."

Jesus Cesc, you might as well have said this four months ago. All season long Arsenal have been average at best. They have had far to many draws this season to even think of challenging for the title and for me, they will be doing extremley well to claim the final Champions League spot.

All Things Football

Another very exciting week in the world of football. The thought of Europe's elite club competition returning had me beside myself with the excitement, but to be honest I found it rather boring.

On Tuesday the game I chose to watch was the eagerly anticipated Inter Milan V Manchester United tie which turned out to be a bit of a bore to be honest. Ok, I know it was a very tactical game and I know neither team wanted to be finished going into the second leg but I still feel it didn't live up to expectations. Surely the second leg at Old Trafford can only get better? I'm with Mourinho on this one and I think we could be looking at another 0-0 draw, with extra time being needed to separate the teams.

Out of Wednesday's games I chose to watch the in-form Real Madrid take on Liverpool in the Bernabeu. A lot of doubts surrounded Rafa's future at the club going into this game but it didn't seem to affect the players' as Liverpool ran out deserved 1-0 winners.

After hearing the news that Everton Midfielder Mikel Arteta will be out for 6 months with a knee injury, the always-reliable Star newspaper has reported that "Everton manager David Moyes is ready to offer Niko Kranjcar an escape from Portsmouth by making a £6 million bid for the Croatian playmaker!" Now what the problem with this I hear you cry? The article goes onto say "Moyes sees the former Hadjuk Split star as a replacement for Mikel Arteta, who faces six months out with a knee injury." Well the problem is the earliest Kranjcar could sign for Everton is July so he could play for them no earlier then August which is 6 months away. Arteta is out for 6 months. Something surely doesn't add up. Always trust the tabloids!

On Wednesday I also discovered an excellent story. This gem of a jersey will be worn by Dublin clubs Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers to raise money for breast cancer Ireland. I think this is a great initiative and all for a brilliant cause. I Love the jersey and I reckon these will sell-out very fast.

In the spirit of the raising €10,000 for Action Breast Cancer Ireland my team Bohemians and arch rivals Shamrock Rovers will wear the kits against each other in the 4 league meetings this season. In each case the away team will wear the kit modelled here by Brain Shelley and Padraig Amond. Shamrock Rovers will be the first to wear the kit in their visit to Dalymount Park in round 3 of the League of Ireland programme 2009.

All Things Football

Another very exciting week in the world of football. The thought of Europe's elite club competition returning had me beside myself with the excitement, but to be honest I found it rather boring.

On Tuesday the game I chose to watch was the eagerly anticipated Inter Milan V Manchester United tie which turned out to be a bit of a bore to be honest. Ok, I know it was a very tactical game and I know neither team wanted to be finished going into the second leg but I still feel it didn't live up to expectations. Surely the second leg at Old Trafford can only get better? I'm with Mourinho on this one and I think we could be looking at another 0-0 draw, with extra time being needed to separate the teams.

Out of Wednesday's games I chose to watch the in-form Real Madrid take on Liverpool in the Bernabeu. A lot of doubts surrounded Rafa's future at the club going into this game but it didn't seem to affect the players' as Liverpool ran out deserved 1-0 winners.

After hearing the news that Everton Midfielder Mikel Arteta will be out for 6 months with a knee injury, the always-reliable Star newspaper has reported that "Everton manager David Moyes is ready to offer Niko Kranjcar an escape from Portsmouth by making a £6 million bid for the Croatian playmaker!" Now what the problem with this I hear you cry? The article goes onto say "Moyes sees the former Hadjuk Split star as a replacement for Mikel Arteta, who faces six months out with a knee injury." Well the problem is the earliest Kranjcar could sign for Everton is July so he could play for them no earlier then August which is 6 months away. Arteta is out for 6 months. Something surely doesn't add up. Always trust the tabloids!

On Wednesday I also discovered an excellent story. This gem of a jersey will be worn by Dublin clubs Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers to raise money for breast cancer Ireland. I think this is a great initiative and all for a brilliant cause. I Love the jersey and I reckon these will sell-out very fast.

In the spirit of the raising €10,000 for Action Breast Cancer Ireland my team Bohemians and arch rivals Shamrock Rovers will wear the kits against each other in the 4 league meetings this season. In each case the away team will wear the kit modelled here by Brain Shelley and Padraig Amond. Shamrock Rovers will be the first to wear the kit in their visit to Dalymount Park in round 3 of the League of Ireland programme 2009.

Benitez to be sacked after missing deadline?

I was expecting this to happen in the summer but not now.

Yes, it's the news that has got everyone in football talking. Just days after seeing his side's Premier League title hopes disappear, Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez looks as though he could be on his way out of Anfield after it was claimed that the deadline for him to sign a new contract at the club has passed.

Earlier today, several leading bookmakers suspended betting on Benitez to be next Premier League manager to leave his post after reports emerged that the Spaniard could be gone by this weekend's trip to face Middlesbrough.

Benitez has been in negotiations with the Merseyside club over a new contract for what seems like years, however the former Valencia manager has rejected the offer of a new deal on more than one occasion. Benitez' reluctance to sign a new deal at Anfield over certain conditions of the offer has left the club's American owners (Tom Hicks and George Gillet) to consider his position at the club.

It was revealed last year that Hicks had held talks with Jurgen Klinsmann about the possibility of taking over from Benitez. This revelation led to weeks of uncertainty over Benitez' future at the club and at the time, I must admit, I thought he would walk. This time, I don't think it's a question of will he walk or not. Despite the club's insistence that it's "Business as usual" I always feel there's no smoke without fire and that is certainly the case here.

With contract talks continuing to stall and Liverpool now out of everything bar Europe, I think the owners will dismiss Benitez within days. What do you think? I'm intrigued to hear what you Liverpool fans have to say on the matter. Leave your comments below please.

Benitez to be sacked after missing deadline?

I was expecting this to happen in the summer but not now.

Yes, it's the news that has got everyone in football talking. Just days after seeing his side's Premier League title hopes disappear, Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez looks as though he could be on his way out of Anfield after it was claimed that the deadline for him to sign a new contract at the club has passed.

Earlier today, several leading bookmakers suspended betting on Benitez to be next Premier League manager to leave his post after reports emerged that the Spaniard could be gone by this weekend's trip to face Middlesbrough.

Benitez has been in negotiations with the Merseyside club over a new contract for what seems like years, however the former Valencia manager has rejected the offer of a new deal on more than one occasion. Benitez' reluctance to sign a new deal at Anfield over certain conditions of the offer has left the club's American owners (Tom Hicks and George Gillet) to consider his position at the club.

It was revealed last year that Hicks had held talks with Jurgen Klinsmann about the possibility of taking over from Benitez. This revelation led to weeks of uncertainty over Benitez' future at the club and at the time, I must admit, I thought he would walk. This time, I don't think it's a question of will he walk or not. Despite the club's insistence that it's "Business as usual" I always feel there's no smoke without fire and that is certainly the case here.

With contract talks continuing to stall and Liverpool now out of everything bar Europe, I think the owners will dismiss Benitez within days. What do you think? I'm intrigued to hear what you Liverpool fans have to say on the matter. Leave your comments below please.

Arsenal take slender lead to Italy while United hold Inter to goalless draw

All in all it was a decent night for English sides in the Champions League this evening.

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal beat Italian side Roma 1-0 at the Emirates to give themselves a really good chance of progressing to the quarter-finals. The Gunners scored the only goal of the game minutes before half-time when Robin Van Persie converted from the spot after he himself was taken down in the area.

Meanwhile, In the San Siro, Manchester United drew 0-0 with Serie A leaders Inter Milan, however Sir Alex Ferguson's men may feel they should have got that all important away goal. Cristiano Ronaldo had a host of free-kicks which were expertly saved by Julio Cesar in the Inter goal.

I would be surprised if both Arsenal and United don't go through now after tonight's results. Arsenal really could of done with another goal or two but having said that I think they will have enough to get a draw in Italy in two weeks time. If United play like they did tonight, I am sure they will have no problems in seeing off Inter, however Jose Mourinho's men are bound to get better in the second-leg.

Elsewhere in the Champions League : Atletico Madrid 2-2 Porto, Lyon 1-1 Barcelona.

Arsenal take slender lead to Italy while United hold Inter to goalless draw

All in all it was a decent night for English sides in the Champions League this evening.

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal beat Italian side Roma 1-0 at the Emirates to give themselves a really good chance of progressing to the quarter-finals. The Gunners scored the only goal of the game minutes before half-time when Robin Van Persie converted from the spot after he himself was taken down in the area.

Meanwhile, In the San Siro, Manchester United drew 0-0 with Serie A leaders Inter Milan, however Sir Alex Ferguson's men may feel they should have got that all important away goal. Cristiano Ronaldo had a host of free-kicks which were expertly saved by Julio Cesar in the Inter goal.

I would be surprised if both Arsenal and United don't go through now after tonight's results. Arsenal really could of done with another goal or two but having said that I think they will have enough to get a draw in Italy in two weeks time. If United play like they did tonight, I am sure they will have no problems in seeing off Inter, however Jose Mourinho's men are bound to get better in the second-leg.

Elsewhere in the Champions League : Atletico Madrid 2-2 Porto, Lyon 1-1 Barcelona.

Why Cristiano Ronaldo scoring the last goal tonight could save you some money

Ok, it's an interesting tie as it is, but why not make it even more interesting?

This evening's Champions League tie between Inter Milan and Manchester United is bound to be a cracker. Sir Alex Ferguson comes up against his old friend, Jose Mourinho for the first time in nearly two years in what is undoubtedly the tie of the last 16.

Football Corner's good friend Paddy Power has his usual odds for first goalscorer and correct score in the game at the San Siro. To mark the occasion Paddy is offering to refund all first/last goalscorer, correct score and scorecast bets placed on the match if Cristiano Ronaldo scores the last goal of the game, so there's no better time to open your account.

Open your account now and receive a free £20 bet. Here are a few bets I feel are definitely worth a look :

Inter Milan 2-1 Man United - 17/2.
Inter Milan 1-1 Man United - 9/2.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic First Goalscorer - 6/1.
Wayne Rooney Last Goalscorer - 13/2.
Adriano First Goal & Inter 2-0 Scorecast - 45/1.
Dimitar Berbatov First Goal & Man United 3-2 Scorecast - 175/1.

So follow the link below to open your account.

Why Cristiano Ronaldo scoring the last goal tonight could save you some money

Ok, it's an interesting tie as it is, but why not make it even more interesting?

This evening's Champions League tie between Inter Milan and Manchester United is bound to be a cracker. Sir Alex Ferguson comes up against his old friend, Jose Mourinho for the first time in nearly two years in what is undoubtedly the tie of the last 16.

Football Corner's good friend Paddy Power has his usual odds for first goalscorer and correct score in the game at the San Siro. To mark the occasion Paddy is offering to refund all first/last goalscorer, correct score and scorecast bets placed on the match if Cristiano Ronaldo scores the last goal of the game, so there's no better time to open your account.

Open your account now and receive a free £20 bet. Here are a few bets I feel are definitely worth a look :

Inter Milan 2-1 Man United - 17/2.
Inter Milan 1-1 Man United - 9/2.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic First Goalscorer - 6/1.
Wayne Rooney Last Goalscorer - 13/2.
Adriano First Goal & Inter 2-0 Scorecast - 45/1.
Dimitar Berbatov First Goal & Man United 3-2 Scorecast - 175/1.

So follow the link below to open your account.

All Things Football

English teams draw blanks in Europe

I think its fair to say it has been a disappointing week for English teams in Europe. With Tottenham going down 2-0 in the Ukraine, Manchester City crumbling to a last minute equalizer to draw 2-2 with FC Copenhagen and Aston Villa drawing 1-1 with CSKA Moscow. With Harry Redknapps's recent comments I can't see Spurs progressing and I see the same fate for Aston Villa as they face a tough task away to CSKA.

However, I don't think its a case of 'the grass is always greener on the other side'. In my opinion Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea all face very tough opposition in the last 16 of the Champions League. I can definitely see at least two of the remaining four British teams crashing out. Here is my preview of some of the Champions League games coming up. Feel free to disagree or not take any notice at all as I chose who will advance and key players to look out for in each of the games.


Champions league preview

Arsenal v Roma

An intriguing tie here, I think it all comes down to what Arsenal turn up. Will be it be the fluent, easy on the eye attacking football Arsenal or the Prone to mistakes Arsenal? Roma currently lie 6th in Serie A and like Arsenal will certainly not be winning a league title this season. Roma's failures have mainly been at the back this season having conceded an incredible 31 goals in the league. If Arsenal could exploit Roma's frailties at the back I think they stand a good chance.

Players to watch:M. Vucinic and R. Van Persie.
Team to advance: Tough call but I think Arsenal will just about edge it.


Inter Milan v Man United

This one is definitely without question my tie of the round. Yet another Ferguson vs Mourinho tactical battle. Both teams are at the summit of their domestic leagues and both have played some world class football this season and it will be disappointing to see one of these sides go out. Two players who could be key to each teams success are Inter Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo. I'm sure we all know what both of these players can do and that is why I think they are both going to be a crucial part of their teams chances of progression into the quarter finals.

Players to watch: C.Ronaldo and Z.Ibrahimovic
Team to advance: This one could really go either way but...Inter Milan.


Lyon v Barcelona

What more can be said about Barcelona? They are having an absolutely phenomenal season and are taking La Liga by storm. With the likes of Eto'o, Messi and Henry all in sensational form I think it would take a miricale for Lyon to stop Barca from advancing to the quarter finals. However, Lyon do top Ligue 1 but haven't had it as easy as they have in previous years. Karim Benzema is a huge reason for their succeses and he will be key if they are to stand any chance of ousting the seemingly unstoppable Barcelona.

Players to watch: L.Messi and K. Benzema
Team to advance: Without a doubt in my mind, Barcelona


Chelsea v Juventus

Claudio Ranieri returns to Stamford Bridge in what is sure to be an enthralling encounter. With Chelsea's title hopes now in tatters Guus Hiddink may now focus his attention on the Champions League. While Juve currently occupy 2nd place in Serie A but are 9 points adrift of rivals Inter Milan. Personally I feel this game could turn out to be a classic Champions League match, both teams are under pressure to deliver success and it doesn't look to be coming in their domestic leagues.

Players to watch: F.Lampard and Amauri
Team to advance: Yet another hard call but I'll go with Juventus.


Liverpool V Real Madrid

Usually by this stage of the Champions League Liverpool are not surprisingly out of the race for the Premier League, however this year they still have a little bit of life in their title challange and I believe this will signal the end of their champions league hopes. Any year they have done well in the champions league they have not had the distraction of the premiership. The same could be said for Real Madrid, although they are all but out of the race fo the La liga title, I think this could work to their advantage. If Steven Gerrard or Fernando Torres aren't fit for either of these games I cant see Liverpool having much of a chance therefore I am going to predict that Real Madrid will be in the draw for the quarter final of this years champions league.

Players to watch:S. Gerrard and G. Higuaín
Team to advance:Real Madrid

So by my reckoning Spurs, Villa, Man United, Liverpool and Chelsea will all be OUT of Europe by the time the draws are made for the next round of each competition. A bold call I know, but I feel the Premier League has been poor this season and this will reflect in the Champions League. Maybe I'll be writing my next post with egg on my face and all the English teams will indeed have done themselves proud but looking at it right now ... I doubt it.

All Things Football

English teams draw blanks in Europe

I think its fair to say it has been a disappointing week for English teams in Europe. With Tottenham going down 2-0 in the Ukraine, Manchester City crumbling to a last minute equalizer to draw 2-2 with FC Copenhagen and Aston Villa drawing 1-1 with CSKA Moscow. With Harry Redknapps's recent comments I can't see Spurs progressing and I see the same fate for Aston Villa as they face a tough task away to CSKA.

However, I don't think its a case of 'the grass is always greener on the other side'. In my opinion Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea all face very tough opposition in the last 16 of the Champions League. I can definitely see at least two of the remaining four British teams crashing out. Here is my preview of some of the Champions League games coming up. Feel free to disagree or not take any notice at all as I chose who will advance and key players to look out for in each of the games.


Champions league preview

Arsenal v Roma

An intriguing tie here, I think it all comes down to what Arsenal turn up. Will be it be the fluent, easy on the eye attacking football Arsenal or the Prone to mistakes Arsenal? Roma currently lie 6th in Serie A and like Arsenal will certainly not be winning a league title this season. Roma's failures have mainly been at the back this season having conceded an incredible 31 goals in the league. If Arsenal could exploit Roma's frailties at the back I think they stand a good chance.

Players to watch:M. Vucinic and R. Van Persie.
Team to advance: Tough call but I think Arsenal will just about edge it.


Inter Milan v Man United

This one is definitely without question my tie of the round. Yet another Ferguson vs Mourinho tactical battle. Both teams are at the summit of their domestic leagues and both have played some world class football this season and it will be disappointing to see one of these sides go out. Two players who could be key to each teams success are Inter Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo. I'm sure we all know what both of these players can do and that is why I think they are both going to be a crucial part of their teams chances of progression into the quarter finals.

Players to watch: C.Ronaldo and Z.Ibrahimovic
Team to advance: This one could really go either way but...Inter Milan.


Lyon v Barcelona

What more can be said about Barcelona? They are having an absolutely phenomenal season and are taking La Liga by storm. With the likes of Eto'o, Messi and Henry all in sensational form I think it would take a miricale for Lyon to stop Barca from advancing to the quarter finals. However, Lyon do top Ligue 1 but haven't had it as easy as they have in previous years. Karim Benzema is a huge reason for their succeses and he will be key if they are to stand any chance of ousting the seemingly unstoppable Barcelona.

Players to watch: L.Messi and K. Benzema
Team to advance: Without a doubt in my mind, Barcelona


Chelsea v Juventus

Claudio Ranieri returns to Stamford Bridge in what is sure to be an enthralling encounter. With Chelsea's title hopes now in tatters Guus Hiddink may now focus his attention on the Champions League. While Juve currently occupy 2nd place in Serie A but are 9 points adrift of rivals Inter Milan. Personally I feel this game could turn out to be a classic Champions League match, both teams are under pressure to deliver success and it doesn't look to be coming in their domestic leagues.

Players to watch: F.Lampard and Amauri
Team to advance: Yet another hard call but I'll go with Juventus.


Liverpool V Real Madrid

Usually by this stage of the Champions League Liverpool are not surprisingly out of the race for the Premier League, however this year they still have a little bit of life in their title challange and I believe this will signal the end of their champions league hopes. Any year they have done well in the champions league they have not had the distraction of the premiership. The same could be said for Real Madrid, although they are all but out of the race fo the La liga title, I think this could work to their advantage. If Steven Gerrard or Fernando Torres aren't fit for either of these games I cant see Liverpool having much of a chance therefore I am going to predict that Real Madrid will be in the draw for the quarter final of this years champions league.

Players to watch:S. Gerrard and G. Higuaín
Team to advance:Real Madrid

So by my reckoning Spurs, Villa, Man United, Liverpool and Chelsea will all be OUT of Europe by the time the draws are made for the next round of each competition. A bold call I know, but I feel the Premier League has been poor this season and this will reflect in the Champions League. Maybe I'll be writing my next post with egg on my face and all the English teams will indeed have done themselves proud but looking at it right now ... I doubt it.

Football Corner brings you All Things Football

For the last few weeks, Football Corner has been thinking of ways to improve the site. We experimented with several ideas including the idea to start up a forum on the site, however in the end we have decided to start a new weekly column which will be written by a good friend of mine, Frankie Lally.

You may remember Frankie. He previously wrote on the site last summer and he was a massive help to myself. I must admit, it's great to have him back on the site and I'm sure over the coming months he will prove a massive hit with you, the readers. Frankie will be writting a new weekly football column called "All Things Football".

"All Things Football" will bring you, well all things football I guess. It will be posted every Thursday evening (apart from the first column which will be posted on Monday evening) and I hope you enjoy. So make sure to stay tuned to Football Corner over the coming weeks and months for all the latest news and views of the footballing nature and for the new feature.

Football Corner brings you All Things Football

For the last few weeks, Football Corner has been thinking of ways to improve the site. We experimented with several ideas including the idea to start up a forum on the site, however in the end we have decided to start a new weekly column which will be written by a good friend of mine, Frankie Lally.

You may remember Frankie. He previously wrote on the site last summer and he was a massive help to myself. I must admit, it's great to have him back on the site and I'm sure over the coming months he will prove a massive hit with you, the readers. Frankie will be writting a new weekly football column called "All Things Football".

"All Things Football" will bring you, well all things football I guess. It will be posted every Thursday evening (apart from the first column which will be posted on Monday evening) and I hope you enjoy. So make sure to stay tuned to Football Corner over the coming weeks and months for all the latest news and views of the footballing nature and for the new feature.

Everton will struggle to finish top six without Arteta

Everton have today been rocked by the news that midfielder Mikel Arteta will be out for the rest of the season. The Spanish international ruptured his cruciate knee ligament in Everton's 0-0 draw with Newcastle yesterday which now leaves David Moyes without his star man for the rest of the campaign.

The Toffees currently sit sixth in the Premier League with 12 games remaining and personally, I think they will struggle to hang onto to that spot with Arteta.

Arteta isn't the only player who Everton will have to do without for the final third of the season. We all know that Yakubu is also sidelined for the rest of the season and for me, they are their best players. No doubt about it.

Arteta is simply irreplaceable for Everton. Without him they are a totally different team. The 26-year old is Everton's joint top-scorer this season and has several assists to his name already so without him I feel they could really struggle to find the net in the coming weeks and months.

Arteta's injury should lead to Segundo Castillo earning a starting role in Moyes' midfield and for me, Castillo isn't half the player Arteta is. It will be very interesting to see how manage without their number 10 over the next few weeks, starting with the visit of Premier League strugglers West Brom on Saturday. What do you think? Will Everton be able to cope without Arteta. Comments below please.

Everton will struggle to finish top six without Arteta

Everton have today been rocked by the news that midfielder Mikel Arteta will be out for the rest of the season. The Spanish international ruptured his cruciate knee ligament in Everton's 0-0 draw with Newcastle yesterday which now leaves David Moyes without his star man for the rest of the campaign.

The Toffees currently sit sixth in the Premier League with 12 games remaining and personally, I think they will struggle to hang onto to that spot with Arteta.

Arteta isn't the only player who Everton will have to do without for the final third of the season. We all know that Yakubu is also sidelined for the rest of the season and for me, they are their best players. No doubt about it.

Arteta is simply irreplaceable for Everton. Without him they are a totally different team. The 26-year old is Everton's joint top-scorer this season and has several assists to his name already so without him I feel they could really struggle to find the net in the coming weeks and months.

Arteta's injury should lead to Segundo Castillo earning a starting role in Moyes' midfield and for me, Castillo isn't half the player Arteta is. It will be very interesting to see how manage without their number 10 over the next few weeks, starting with the visit of Premier League strugglers West Brom on Saturday. What do you think? Will Everton be able to cope without Arteta. Comments below please.

Benitez rejects latest contract offer then sees Liverpool's title hopes disappear, so is it only a matter of time before he leaves Anfield?

It was an interesting day for Liverpool football club to say the least. First, it was revealed that Rafa Benitez had rejected a new contract at the club, then the Spaniard saw his side's chances of winning this season's Premier League title disappear.

Benitez has repeatedly rejected new contract offers from American owners George Gillet and Tom Hicks. Benitez has no problems with the money being offered, however he does have a problem with some of the terms of the contract. The former Valencia manager has insisted he will only sign a new deal at Anfield if he is given full control of all dealings regarding transfers at the club.

As most of us will know by now, Liverpool fans don't like the owners. Simple as that.

It has been reported in recent weeks and days that the summer could bring radical change at Anfield. Either the owners go or Rafa goes and we all know what the fans would prefer. Despite the majority of fans wanting Benitez to stay, I personally feel he will walk once the season ends.

The owners are clearly reluctant to give into Benitez' demands and I think that coupled with the fact that Liverpool won't be collecting any silverware come the end of the season will see Benitez' five year spell at the club end. So, Liverpool fans (or any football fans in general) what do you think? Will Benitez stay or will he go? Leave your comments below please.

Benitez rejects latest contract offer then sees Liverpool's title hopes disappear, so is it only a matter of time before he leaves Anfield?

It was an interesting day for Liverpool football club to say the least. First, it was revealed that Rafa Benitez had rejected a new contract at the club, then the Spaniard saw his side's chances of winning this season's Premier League title disappear.

Benitez has repeatedly rejected new contract offers from American owners George Gillet and Tom Hicks. Benitez has no problems with the money being offered, however he does have a problem with some of the terms of the contract. The former Valencia manager has insisted he will only sign a new deal at Anfield if he is given full control of all dealings regarding transfers at the club.

As most of us will know by now, Liverpool fans don't like the owners. Simple as that.

It has been reported in recent weeks and days that the summer could bring radical change at Anfield. Either the owners go or Rafa goes and we all know what the fans would prefer. Despite the majority of fans wanting Benitez to stay, I personally feel he will walk once the season ends.

The owners are clearly reluctant to give into Benitez' demands and I think that coupled with the fact that Liverpool won't be collecting any silverware come the end of the season will see Benitez' five year spell at the club end. So, Liverpool fans (or any football fans in general) what do you think? Will Benitez stay or will he go? Leave your comments below please.

Hands up if you think Liverpool's chances of winning the title are over

Hands up if you think Liverpool's chances of winning the title are over

FANS....FANS.....FANS !!

how football fans colourize the field...

Has Chelsea's victory over Aston Villa put them back in the title race?

They are still ten points behind leaders Manchester United, however has Chelsea's victory over title rivals Aston Villa today put them back in the race for this season's Premier League title?

Nicolas Anelka scored the only goal of the game this afternoon as Guus Hiddink's men ran out 1-0 winners at Villa Park. Before today's game, many people had questioned whether or not Chelsea had what it takes to challenge for the title. Despite the fact I think United will eventually win it, I feel Chelsea's victory today gives them a real good chance of at least beating Liverpool for 2nd.

I have been really impressed with Hiddink's attitude since his arrival at Stamford Bridge last week. During his first press conference as Chelsea boss earlier this week, Hiddink claimed he wasn't just at the club to pass time. When asked about the club's chances of challenging for the title, Hiddink had this to say :

"We're 10 points down on Manchester United, which will be very difficult but we will give it a try."

Personally, I think that was the perfect response. He wasn't conceding defeat in the title race and he didn't put too much pressure on himself saying that he could win the title. He simply said, we will give it a try. With the pressure now off Chelsea this season, I feel that could have a positive affect on the team. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see them go on a great run of form between now and May and who knows where it might take them.

Can Chelsea still challenge for the title? Have your say by leaving your comments below.

Has Chelsea's victory over Aston Villa put them back in the title race?

They are still ten points behind leaders Manchester United, however has Chelsea's victory over title rivals Aston Villa today put them back in the race for this season's Premier League title?

Nicolas Anelka scored the only goal of the game this afternoon as Guus Hiddink's men ran out 1-0 winners at Villa Park. Before today's game, many people had questioned whether or not Chelsea had what it takes to challenge for the title. Despite the fact I think United will eventually win it, I feel Chelsea's victory today gives them a real good chance of at least beating Liverpool for 2nd.

I have been really impressed with Hiddink's attitude since his arrival at Stamford Bridge last week. During his first press conference as Chelsea boss earlier this week, Hiddink claimed he wasn't just at the club to pass time. When asked about the club's chances of challenging for the title, Hiddink had this to say :

"We're 10 points down on Manchester United, which will be very difficult but we will give it a try."

Personally, I think that was the perfect response. He wasn't conceding defeat in the title race and he didn't put too much pressure on himself saying that he could win the title. He simply said, we will give it a try. With the pressure now off Chelsea this season, I feel that could have a positive affect on the team. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see them go on a great run of form between now and May and who knows where it might take them.

Can Chelsea still challenge for the title? Have your say by leaving your comments below.

Benitez : United are very good but they are not untouchable

Let's face it, it was only a matter of time before Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez had something to say about the comments made by Arsene Wenger earlier this week. The Arsenal manager claimed that Manchester United looked untouchable this season, however Benitez has responded by saying they're not.

Liverpool are considered by many as United's only challengers for the Premier League title this season, however with the Merseyside club currently sitting five points behind Sir Alex Ferguson's men, I for one find it hard to see how they will even get close to them.

Benitez is never short of things to say when it comes to United. We all remember his famous rant, where he talked only about facts and how the FA are so leiniant with United and all that crap. When asked by Wenger's recent comments, the Spaniard had this to say :

"When I speak of facts, one is that United are a very good team and I knew they could have a run of winning games in a row ... They will win more than a lot of the other teams but to say we can't beat them? I don't think so ... I can only talk of my team but I don't think they are untouchable. In football now every game is tough so anything can happen."

I am going to have to completely disagree with Mr.Benitez here. Let's be honest, United are certainties for the title this season, no matter what way you look at it. They are five points clear and have the advantage of facing the "big four" (Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal) all at home in the final months of the season. As much as it pains me to say this (considering I am a Man City fan) I think United look untouchable and it wouldn't surprise me at all if they went unbeaten from now until the end of the season.

What do you think? Do you agree with Benitez or Wenger? Leave your comments below.

Benitez : United are very good but they are not untouchable

Let's face it, it was only a matter of time before Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez had something to say about the comments made by Arsene Wenger earlier this week. The Arsenal manager claimed that Manchester United looked untouchable this season, however Benitez has responded by saying they're not.

Liverpool are considered by many as United's only challengers for the Premier League title this season, however with the Merseyside club currently sitting five points behind Sir Alex Ferguson's men, I for one find it hard to see how they will even get close to them.

Benitez is never short of things to say when it comes to United. We all remember his famous rant, where he talked only about facts and how the FA are so leiniant with United and all that crap. When asked by Wenger's recent comments, the Spaniard had this to say :

"When I speak of facts, one is that United are a very good team and I knew they could have a run of winning games in a row ... They will win more than a lot of the other teams but to say we can't beat them? I don't think so ... I can only talk of my team but I don't think they are untouchable. In football now every game is tough so anything can happen."

I am going to have to completely disagree with Mr.Benitez here. Let's be honest, United are certainties for the title this season, no matter what way you look at it. They are five points clear and have the advantage of facing the "big four" (Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal) all at home in the final months of the season. As much as it pains me to say this (considering I am a Man City fan) I think United look untouchable and it wouldn't surprise me at all if they went unbeaten from now until the end of the season.

What do you think? Do you agree with Benitez or Wenger? Leave your comments below.

Spurs are now certainties to exit the UEFA Cup after Redknapp's latest comments

It's official, Tottenham are all but guaranteed to exit the UEFA Cup next Thursday.

Harry Redknapp's men were beaten 2-0 on Thursday evening away to Shakhtar Donetsk and although that doesn't sound too bad a result, it would appear their chances of turning that deficit around next week at White Hart Lane are now slim to none.

Redknapp fielded a much-changed side in Ukraine last night and the former Portsmouth boss has today confirmed he will field an even less experienced side next Thursday.

"I gave one 17-year-old (Dean Parrett) his debut and might have four 17-year-olds next week ... When we play the second leg it will only be half as strong as this side."

Spurs have a busy few weeks coming up so I am not at all surprised that Redknapp has given up on the UEFA Cup. The North London club face Hull City on Monday before Shakthar on Thursday and then finally the trip to Wembley to face Manchester United in the Carling Cup final. It is a little disappointing to see Spurs give up on Europe this season because I think they could have gone a long way in the tournament but I agree with Harry when he says Premier League survival is far more important.

Do Spurs have any chance of progressing through to the final 16 of the UEFA Cup? I certainly don't think so but what do you think? Leave your comments below.

Spurs are now certainties to exit the UEFA Cup after Redknapp's latest comments

It's official, Tottenham are all but guaranteed to exit the UEFA Cup next Thursday.

Harry Redknapp's men were beaten 2-0 on Thursday evening away to Shakhtar Donetsk and although that doesn't sound too bad a result, it would appear their chances of turning that deficit around next week at White Hart Lane are now slim to none.

Redknapp fielded a much-changed side in Ukraine last night and the former Portsmouth boss has today confirmed he will field an even less experienced side next Thursday.

"I gave one 17-year-old (Dean Parrett) his debut and might have four 17-year-olds next week ... When we play the second leg it will only be half as strong as this side."

Spurs have a busy few weeks coming up so I am not at all surprised that Redknapp has given up on the UEFA Cup. The North London club face Hull City on Monday before Shakthar on Thursday and then finally the trip to Wembley to face Manchester United in the Carling Cup final. It is a little disappointing to see Spurs give up on Europe this season because I think they could have gone a long way in the tournament but I agree with Harry when he says Premier League survival is far more important.

Do Spurs have any chance of progressing through to the final 16 of the UEFA Cup? I certainly don't think so but what do you think? Leave your comments below.

Manchester City made "Huge Offer" for Barca, Real and United target during the window

It has been confirmed this afternoon that Manchester City did make a January bid for Lyon striker Karim Benzema. The French international is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in Europe and has been linked with the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United, however it was City who made the only move in January.

Benzema, 21, has never hidden his desire to one day leave Lyon to join a bigger club, with United or AC Milan his preferred destinations. Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas has today confirmed that the world's richest club, Man City, did indeed make a "huge offer" for the player during the transfer window, but that was rejected.

Aulas had this to say : "We had first contact from an English club, a newcomer among the great traders of the transfer market ... The offer was huge. Barcelona, Madrid and Manchester United are also attracted. But he is a Lyon player so far".

Wouldn't it have been great to see Benzema arrive in the Premier League. We all know that he is a top quality player and I am sure he would have proved a massive hit in England. I wouldn't rule out a possible summer move to United but only if Carlos Tevez leaves Old Trafford. As far as a potential move to City goes, I can't see it happening unless the club make a ridiculous offer like £70 million or something.

Manchester City made "Huge Offer" for Barca, Real and United target during the window

It has been confirmed this afternoon that Manchester City did make a January bid for Lyon striker Karim Benzema. The French international is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in Europe and has been linked with the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United, however it was City who made the only move in January.

Benzema, 21, has never hidden his desire to one day leave Lyon to join a bigger club, with United or AC Milan his preferred destinations. Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas has today confirmed that the world's richest club, Man City, did indeed make a "huge offer" for the player during the transfer window, but that was rejected.

Aulas had this to say : "We had first contact from an English club, a newcomer among the great traders of the transfer market ... The offer was huge. Barcelona, Madrid and Manchester United are also attracted. But he is a Lyon player so far".

Wouldn't it have been great to see Benzema arrive in the Premier League. We all know that he is a top quality player and I am sure he would have proved a massive hit in England. I wouldn't rule out a possible summer move to United but only if Carlos Tevez leaves Old Trafford. As far as a potential move to City goes, I can't see it happening unless the club make a ridiculous offer like £70 million or something.

Man United have already won the Premier League, Carling Cup and FA Cup

That's according to Irish bookmaker Paddy Power. Yes, the bookie that prides it selves on being the punter's friend and has become famous for it's early payouts and money-back specials has today taken the bold move to pay out on all bets placed on Manchester United to win the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Carling Cup.

A spokesman for Paddy Power had this to say : "We know and punters know the race for trophies is all but over for another year so why wait for the formalities? However, paying out on all three is a gamble. Football has a way of biting teams on the backside when they least expect it so we could yet end up with egg on our faces and not for the first time."

Football Corner is a proud affiliate of Paddy Power's and as a result, you now have the opportunity to take advantage of a cracking offer. Sign-up through the link below and you will receive a free £20 bet when you bet £10 or more. My advice would be to put your free bet on United to win all three domestic trophies and the Champions League at odds of 12/1.

Man United have already won the Premier League, Carling Cup and FA Cup

That's according to Irish bookmaker Paddy Power. Yes, the bookie that prides it selves on being the punter's friend and has become famous for it's early payouts and money-back specials has today taken the bold move to pay out on all bets placed on Manchester United to win the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Carling Cup.

A spokesman for Paddy Power had this to say : "We know and punters know the race for trophies is all but over for another year so why wait for the formalities? However, paying out on all three is a gamble. Football has a way of biting teams on the backside when they least expect it so we could yet end up with egg on our faces and not for the first time."

Football Corner is a proud affiliate of Paddy Power's and as a result, you now have the opportunity to take advantage of a cracking offer. Sign-up through the link below and you will receive a free £20 bet when you bet £10 or more. My advice would be to put your free bet on United to win all three domestic trophies and the Champions League at odds of 12/1.

Mark Hughes will be the next Premier League manager to go

That's according to our readers anyway. Yes, after nearly a week of voting, you, the readers, have decided that Manchester City boss Mark Hughes will be the next Premier League manager to go. The former Blackburn manager only arrived at Eastlands last July, however things haven't gone according to plan and he has been under pressure for some time now.

Here is the full result of the poll :

Mark Hughes - 19 votes (55%)
Gareth Southgate - 11 votes (32%)
Joe Kinnear - 4 votes (11%)
Other - 1 vote (2%)

Total Votes : 35.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who voted in the poll and I would encourage all of you to vote in our latest poll which can be found in the far right sidebar of the site. The latest poll asks you : Who will Cristiano Ronaldo be playing for next season? Place your votes now.

Mark Hughes will be the next Premier League manager to go

That's according to our readers anyway. Yes, after nearly a week of voting, you, the readers, have decided that Manchester City boss Mark Hughes will be the next Premier League manager to go. The former Blackburn manager only arrived at Eastlands last July, however things haven't gone according to plan and he has been under pressure for some time now.

Here is the full result of the poll :

Mark Hughes - 19 votes (55%)
Gareth Southgate - 11 votes (32%)
Joe Kinnear - 4 votes (11%)
Other - 1 vote (2%)

Total Votes : 35.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who voted in the poll and I would encourage all of you to vote in our latest poll which can be found in the far right sidebar of the site. The latest poll asks you : Who will Cristiano Ronaldo be playing for next season? Place your votes now.

Will this man be the first to score against Man United in over 1,300 minutes?

Blackburn face the daunting trip to Old Trafford on Saturday to face Manchester United. Now, we all know that Sir Alex Ferguson's men haven't conceded a Premier League goal since their 2-1 defeat away to Arsenal back on November 8th. So will the man in the picture (Roque Santa Cruz) be the first to score against United keeper Edwin Van Der Sar in over 1,300 minutes? Comments below.

Will this man be the first to score against Man United in over 1,300 minutes?

Blackburn face the daunting trip to Old Trafford on Saturday to face Manchester United. Now, we all know that Sir Alex Ferguson's men haven't conceded a Premier League goal since their 2-1 defeat away to Arsenal back on November 8th. So will the man in the picture (Roque Santa Cruz) be the first to score against United keeper Edwin Van Der Sar in over 1,300 minutes? Comments below.

Man City ruining football? ... Give me a break

Before I start writing this, I'll just let you all know I'm a City fan.

I have heard and seen many things said and written about Manchester City in recent months and I must admit, I'm sick of it. Yesterday I saw some quotes from the chairman of Danish side FC Copenhagen (who City face in the last 32 of the UEFA Cup on Thursday) about how City are destroying football and all that crap. It seems as though everyone in the world has to have a go at City nowadays.

Yes, the club are spending a lot of money and why shouldn't they. If someone buys your club and gives you millions to spend, your not just going to let it sit their, your going to spend it. So when Mark Hughes and other City officials decide they want to try and bring one of the world's most exciting talents in Kaka to the club, they aren't applauded for their efforts. No, they are criticised.

That just doesn't make sense. OK, you can argue that the sums of money involved were a bit over the top but why shouldn't they go over the top, they have the resources to do that.

Another person who, is never short of a something to say, is now having a go at City is Michel Platini. The president of UEFA is threatening to ban City from European competitions if they fail to "respect their budget". Like, come on, what does that even mean?

During their pursuit of AC Milan's Kaka the club was widely criticised for bidding such a ridiculous amount (£107 million) on the player when the country was (and unfortunately still is) going through a recession. Why should the Arabian investors be criticised for spending so much money on a player instead of pumping it into the economy.

They bought City for one reason. To make the club the best in the world and to do that, obviously you need a great deal of money. They're not going to spend the money on building schools and fixing hospitals, why would they, yet still they are criticised for spending so much money.

The world of football is just a little bit jealous. City have money and like it or not they will become a force to be reckoned with in European football in years to come. RANT OVER

Man City ruining football? ... Give me a break

Before I start writing this, I'll just let you all know I'm a City fan.

I have heard and seen many things said and written about Manchester City in recent months and I must admit, I'm sick of it. Yesterday I saw some quotes from the chairman of Danish side FC Copenhagen (who City face in the last 32 of the UEFA Cup on Thursday) about how City are destroying football and all that crap. It seems as though everyone in the world has to have a go at City nowadays.

Yes, the club are spending a lot of money and why shouldn't they. If someone buys your club and gives you millions to spend, your not just going to let it sit their, your going to spend it. So when Mark Hughes and other City officials decide they want to try and bring one of the world's most exciting talents in Kaka to the club, they aren't applauded for their efforts. No, they are criticised.

That just doesn't make sense. OK, you can argue that the sums of money involved were a bit over the top but why shouldn't they go over the top, they have the resources to do that.

Another person who, is never short of a something to say, is now having a go at City is Michel Platini. The president of UEFA is threatening to ban City from European competitions if they fail to "respect their budget". Like, come on, what does that even mean?

During their pursuit of AC Milan's Kaka the club was widely criticised for bidding such a ridiculous amount (£107 million) on the player when the country was (and unfortunately still is) going through a recession. Why should the Arabian investors be criticised for spending so much money on a player instead of pumping it into the economy.

They bought City for one reason. To make the club the best in the world and to do that, obviously you need a great deal of money. They're not going to spend the money on building schools and fixing hospitals, why would they, yet still they are criticised for spending so much money.

The world of football is just a little bit jealous. City have money and like it or not they will become a force to be reckoned with in European football in years to come. RANT OVER

Ferguson gets it wrong by claiming : Only Liverpool can challenge us for the title

Sir Alex Ferguson has today claimed that Liverpool are the only side capable of challenging Manchester United for this season's Premier League title. As it stands, Liverpool are just two points behind United at the top of the table, however that is likely to become five points if (when) Ferguson's men beat Fulham tonight.

Despite a relatively slow start to the campaign, United have managed to ease their way to the top of the table which has left people wondering can anyone even get close to them this season. Ferguson thinks so :

"I think they have played into our hands and that the title race now is going to be between ourselves and Liverpool."

For me, I'm not surprised to here Ferguson say this but I completely disagree with him. I don't think even Liverpool have a chance of stopping United claiming their 11th Premier League crown.

Even with some of their better players out injured, United have looked outstanding this season. Quite a few of their victories this season have come by a solitary goal to nil so, really, they haven't even got into fourth gear. There is no doubt United will go onto to claim the title and I fancy they will have wrapped it up by the end of April. Agree or disagree? Leave your comments below.

Ferguson gets it wrong by claiming : Only Liverpool can challenge us for the title

Sir Alex Ferguson has today claimed that Liverpool are the only side capable of challenging Manchester United for this season's Premier League title. As it stands, Liverpool are just two points behind United at the top of the table, however that is likely to become five points if (when) Ferguson's men beat Fulham tonight.

Despite a relatively slow start to the campaign, United have managed to ease their way to the top of the table which has left people wondering can anyone even get close to them this season. Ferguson thinks so :

"I think they have played into our hands and that the title race now is going to be between ourselves and Liverpool."

For me, I'm not surprised to here Ferguson say this but I completely disagree with him. I don't think even Liverpool have a chance of stopping United claiming their 11th Premier League crown.

Even with some of their better players out injured, United have looked outstanding this season. Quite a few of their victories this season have come by a solitary goal to nil so, really, they haven't even got into fourth gear. There is no doubt United will go onto to claim the title and I fancy they will have wrapped it up by the end of April. Agree or disagree? Leave your comments below.