Henry the returning hero

Henry netting last night winner against Leeds United

If the excitement surrounding the return of a hero hadn't already been stirred up enough, the antics of last night have certainly whipped a furore around the Emirates.  The sight of Thierry Henry netting a 78th minute winner just ten minutes after taking to the field has captured the imagination of football fans worldwide.  Well, all except a small pocket of Yorkshire where thousands thought their team were to gain a reply aginst Arsenal for the second season running.

Already immortalised outside the stadium of his beloved club, the Frenchman's celebration exuded the sheer delight of scoring on his second debut.  Arsene Wenger summed up the situation saying:  "He is a special player, he was already a legend here and he just added a bit more to the whole story."

While Henry himself remarked:  "I came back from holiday 15 days ago. I never thought I was going to play for Arsenal again or score a winner. "I don't know what to say. I love the club and I hope I can do more.
"I hope it won't be the last one. The feeling I had when I scored was amazing.
"I rejoined the club as a fan; before I wasn't. 
"Scoring a goal when you support the team, now I know how some of the guys who played for Liverpool or Man United or Chelsea felt when they scored a goal for the club they support."

Celebrating for New York Red Bulls

Doubts were raised when the news inevitably broke.  Weren't their more appropraite younger options available who would be a benefit for the longer term, and how would so many of the squad cope playing with someone they openly admit is a hero.  All that though has already been dispelled, and Simon Garyson's remark that it was "written in the stars" for Henry to grab the winner summing up the occasion.

The way in which he left in 2007 is now well and truly forgotten, when rumors of squad fall outs led to his desire to move on to Barcelona.  His 227th goal in 371 appearances, including 12 in 12 against Leeds, is surely going to be added to during his two month loan spell from New York Red Bulls.

Whatever rollercoaster is ahead during this stint, it will be a pleasure to watch a master at work at a club which will forever be in his heart.

Transer flops - Robinho

Huge expectations were placed on the shoulders of Robinho when Manchester City shelled out big bucks to bring him to Eastlands in 2008.  The Brazlian was a sign of intent from the Abu Dhabi United Group, who upon taking over on transfer deadline day highlighted to the world how serious they were about taking the club to the top of the tree.

After beginning his career at hometown club Santos he enjoyed stellar years as the goals flowed, except a minor blip in 2004/05 season after his mother was kidnapped by gunmen.  Europe clamoured to prise the youngster away in 2004 but the club declined all offers, and the man who made his debut aged 18 in 2002 endured one more season.

After two Campeonato Brasileiro triumphs the big move finally came about in 2005, with Real Madrid beating off all competition by paying 60 per cent of the £24m realise clause inserted into his contract (just short of £15m).  Wearing the number 10 shirt, previously donned by Luis Figo, he endured a solid first season in La Liga scoring 14 goals in 37 appearances.

However at the start of the 2006/07 campaign he found himself out of favour at the club, being deemed too flashy by the new regime that was instilled under President Ramon Calderon and manager Fabio Capello.  After being returned to the starting line up for the second half of the season, he did his bit in helping the club claim the La Liga title.  When Capello was fired Bernd Schuster came in, bringing back the confidence with a run of games in the first team.

Barcelona were once again kept at bay, and despite injury playing it's part, a second La Liga title and fourth in total was on it's way.  Robinho finished the season with 11 league goals and eight assists, and in the process was, along with Iker Casillas, the only Madrid player to finish in the top ten of Fifa's World Player of the Year nominations.

All wasn't well behind the scenes though, with Calderon reportedly going back on promises of a new contract.  The Brazilian himself has since stated talks didn't materialise because the club wanted to use him as bait in transfer dealings, most notably as part exchange or a sale to help fund a move for Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo.  All this for a player who was thried highest goalscorer at the club during his tenure, and also second in the asssist rankings.

So onto Manchester, where City beat Chelsea to the signature the London club thought was definitely going to go their way.  The Stamford Bridge club have since stated Madrid's asking price was the problem, not a problem for the newly rich sky blues who shelled out £32.5m.  Mark Hughes, gaffer at the time, said after the transfer "This is a real statement of intent as to the ambitions of this club."  Unfortunately intent he wouldn't be around to see, although neither was the player himself.

After a wonderful start, scoring on his debut at home to Chelsea, the hype proved too much and he couldn't settle in England.  Home form was no problem for the player, but away from home he struggled continuously.  The second season proved even more disappointing, when after an injury sidelined him for months he found himself down the pecking order.  This resulted in a move away being sought, and he headed back to his homeland.

Former club Santos were the destination, after the two clubs agreed to a six month loan deal.  Upon arriving back he helped the club win the Copa Brasil for the first time in club's history, while stating he would rather stay with the club than return to England.  However City didn't want the loan deal extending and with Santos not putting an offer in, he had no choice but to go back to the club against his will.

With it being no secret a move was being looked for, Fenerbache and Besiktas opened talks but the player himself refused to move to Turkey and instead held on for Italy or Spain.  And late on in the transfer window he got his wish, with AC Milan making a move to take the player for £15m.  At the club he does seem to seem to have returned to form, scoring 14 goals in 34 appearances during the 2010/11 season where he helped the club to a Serie A victory.  In addition to this he also won the Italian Supercup this season, beating near rivals Inter Milan in the process.

On an international level, his first cap came in 2003 and he has been somewhat of an ever present since.  He has won two Confederations Cups in 2005 and 2009 and one Copa America in 2007, but is yet to taste World Cup victory.  However with the 2014 World Cup being help in the samba nation, Robinho could have a chance to taste the ultimate victory.  That is if he can keep playing football with a smile on his face, maintain form and keep a place in the squad at the age of 30.

Manchester United

After over taking close rivals Liverpool with 19 Premier League titles last season, confidence is at an all time high on the red half of Manchester. Chelsea and their City rivals will be their closest challengers this time round, but it is hard to look past Sir Alex Ferguson's men clinching their 20th title this time round.

Goalkeeper

Long term target David De Gea has arrived to take over from the now retired Edwin Van Der Sar. The Dutchman has been a terrific servant to many sides, and shone in his later years at Old Trafford. Anders Lindegaard came in in January as back up, but the big problem here is that there could be one too many keepers on the books.

Defence

Another area in which this side is ridiculously strong, and more bodies have added even more depth. Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand will be the first choice, injuries providing that is. Chris Smalling and new boy Phil Jones provide very adequate back up though, and could well be the future England partnership.

Midfield

WIth Paul Scholes retiring the rumour mill is in over drive about a replacement, with Wesley Sneijder the name cropping up more than most. However despite this, the Midfield is still strong with steel and creativity in abundance. With Ashley Young their is now another dimension added, and depth is certainly here for all to see.

Forwards


Wayne Rooney will once again be the focal point of this sides attacking intent, but after his excellent debut season Javier Hernandez will be expected to perform to that level once again. Dimitar Berbatov could have to seek pastures new if he wants regular first team football, and that highlights even more strength in this team.

Manager

Everyone knows the successes that the Scot has had, and nothing knew can be said about this man that has not already been said. The pressure will certainly be on the next man in the hot seat when he eventually steps aside.

Areas to Strengthen

On the outset this side looks complete, plenty of depth with experience and young talent blended. Sneijder could well be the final piece of the jigsaw, and would be a huge hit in the Premiership with this side.

Expectations

Another League title will be the least of the expectations places upon Manchester United this season. A good showing in Europe, and maybe avenging last seasons final defeat would be desired but it is hard to look beyond Barcelona.

Odds

13/8 (Sky Bet)

Players in

David De Gea £20m (Atletico Madrid) Ashley Young £15m (Aston Villa) Phil Jones £17m (Blackburn Rovers) Pierluigi Gollini free (Fiorentina)

Players out

John O'Shea undisclosed (Sunderland) Wes Brown undisclosed (Sunderland) Gabriel Obertan undisclosed (Newcastle United) Joe Dudgeon undisclosed (Hull CIty) Nicky Ajose undisclosed (Peterborough)  Ryan Tunnicliffe and Scott Wootton loan (Peterborough) Conor Devlin, Owen Hargreaves (all released) Bebe loan (Besiktas) Ritchie De Laet loan (Norwich City) Oliver Norwood loan (Peterborough United) Danny Drinkwater loan (Barnsley)

Chelsea

With a new manager and plenty of fresh faces expected to roll into Stamford Bridge in the coming weeks, everyone concerned with this club has high hopes of another Premier League success. At the very least. Andre Villas Boas will have his work cut out though, fail to win a thing and just ask predecessor Carlo Ancelotti how that gruesome axe feels when it's horrendously wielded by Roman Abramovich. Chelsea will be hoping to start where they left off, with a tremendous finish to the season bringing them surging into second place.

Goalkeeper

Everyone knows who the number one is here, and next season will be no different. Petr Cech will keep his place between the sticks, hoping to put what have been increasingly frequent mistakes, by his standards, over the last few seasons to one side. New signing Thibaud Courtois has arrived and departed on loan already, so Ross Turnbull, remember him, will continue with deputy duties.

Defence

Typically very strong, and this season should be no different. With John Terry, Branislav Ivanovic and Alex they possess three big intimidating centre half's, which also couples as a terrific weapon at set pieces. New boy David Luiz, despite occasional erratic behaviour on the pitch, has already endeared himself to the fans and looks a great buy. With Ashley Cole and Jose Bosingwa they also have attacking wing backs, who can track back and forth up the touch line all day long.

Midfield

After a blistering start last season, the middle of the park seemed to go a bit stale. Frank Lampard failed to hit his trademark thunderbolts as often as usual, while his passing occasional went astray too. Ramires failed to live up to his fee, while some steel was lost, and will continue to be, due to Michael Essien's injury problems. Villas Boas could have a little work to do here, although the return of Yossi Benayoun will add much needed creativity.

Forwards

The debate continue to rage about Chelsea's front line, can a partnership be formed, who needs to leave and will they sign any one else. Mr Abramovich is certain to want a return on his £50m investment of Fernando Torres, and it is widely known he prefers a lone striker role. But with Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka, Saloman Kalou and the returning Daniel Sturridge to please is that possible? Well with support strikers it could certainly work, but putting a partner with the Spaniard up top would not.

Manager

Despite being just 33 years of age, Villas Boas already has a healthy reputation around Europe. Hence the reporter £13+ paid to secure his services from FC Porto, the highest ever for a manager. In his one season in charge of the Portuguesse giants he won four trophies, in the form of Supercup, Primeira Liga, Portuguesse Cup and Europa League (becoming the youngest manager to win a European competition). There is no reason he shouldn't succeed in London, but if he doesn't it could prove a very costly gamble.

Areas to Strengthen

At the back they remain as solid as ever, but it is at the other end where the problems could lie. The striker problem needs to be sorted whether that is with departures and arrivals, although there's no reason it can't be sorted internally. In Midfield a replacement for Essien needs to found, as it seems even if he does return he won't be at his best, injuries take their toll, or he won't return for too long. A bit more of a creative edge could also be sought.

Expectations

Abramovich covets the one trophy that has so far eluded him, and that is of course The Champions League. Many a manager have been sacked for failed to secure it, Avram Grant even went despite losing in the final...Due to a slip from Terry. A decent effort in that will need to be had, but that wont be enough. A Premier League title, or push for it, and domestic cup honours will also be sought.

Odds

11/4 (Sky Bet)

Players In

Thibaud Courtois £5m (Genk) Lucas Piazon £5+extras (Sao Paulo - will join in January) Oriol Romeu £4.5m (Chelsea) Romelu Lukaku £18m (Anderlecht) Raul Meireles £12m (Liverpool) Juan Mata £23.5m (Valencia)

Players Out

Michael Mancienne, Gokhan Tore, Slobodan Rajkovic and Jacopo Sala undisclosed (Hamburg) Jack Cork £750,000 (Southampton) Yuri Zhirkov undisclosed (Anzhi Makhachkala) Danny Philliskirk free (Sheffield United) Jan Sebek, Bobby Devyne, Anton Rodgers, Ben Sampayo, Carl Magnay, Michael Woods, Sam Hutchinson (all realeased) Fabio Borini free (Parma) Sam Walker loan (Northampton Town) Jeffrey Bruma Loan (Hamburg) Thibaud Courtois Loan (Atletico Madrid) Tomas Kalas loan (Vitesse Arnhem) Ben Gordon loan (Peterborough United) Ulises Davila loan (Vitesse Arnhem) Patrick van Aanholt loan (Wigan Athletic) Gael Kakuta loan (Bolton Wanderers) Yossi Benayoun loan (Arsenal)

Transfer flops: Bruno Cheyrou

With a good footballing history behind him, and interest from all over the Europe the future looked rosey for one of many French prodigies.Unfortunately for him, from the moment he arrived at Liverpool the burden imposed upon him was far too great.
Maybe one of the worst statements made by a manager about a new signing was heaped upon his shoulders. This was of course the moment Gerard Houllier described Cheyrou as 'the next Zinedine Zidane.' Huge mistake.

After what was a fruitful pre-season, it rapidly went downhill. Despite making a debut for the French national team shortly after signing in the summer of 2002 for £4.5m. In a four year Anfield career Cheyrou failed to reach even a half century of appearances. And when he did feature he often looked lost on the pitch, unsure of what to do and where his best position was. In short he could perhaps of been a talent wasted, but more than likely he just wasn't up to the demands of the Premier League.

There was however a brief patch when things looked like they could turn round in the 2003/04 season, and he could have an Anfield future after all. Cheyrou's most memorable game was at Stamford Bridge, where a first half strike earned his side a 1-0 victory over Chelsea. A short time later he also bagged a brace at Anfield, as Liverpool defeated Newcastle United 2-1. Could Cheyrou have a future after all?

No he couldn't. After two loan spells back to France, Marseille 2004/05 and Bordeaux 2005/06, came the inevitable sale with Rennes swooping. After a three year stay he had a short spell in Greece with Anorthosis Famagusta, before moving back to France with FC Nantes.

United victory could have huge consequences

Yesterday's victory for Manchester United over Chelsea could have a big rippling effect on both sides. The Londoners must now be resigned to a season without a single trophy making it's way into the Stamford Bridge cabinet. A scenario that over the last few weeks we have learned won't please big spending owner Roman Abramovich one bit. Carlo Ancelotti could be on his last legs, despite last seasons double, and a summer of huge spending could be on the cards. Despite January's £70m+ spree.

In the northwest however, Manchester United are on the verge of greatness. Barring a huge collapse Sir Alex Ferguson has achieved his goal with a 19th league title, knocking neighbours and rivals Liverpool off that perch. Something Red Devils fans were ecstatic about as the exited Old Trafford following that 2-1 win.

Despite this massive achievement though, the biggest test is still to come. On Saturday May 28th at Wembley they will come up against the side thought to be the best in the world, Barcelona. A team who are just one point away from securing another league title themselves, and a team for whom Lionel Messi hasn't stopped scoring all season long. Pep Guardiola has led the praise for the soon to be English Champions, but knows he faces one hell of a challenge. If they go into the game fearing the Spaniards United will be obliterated, however if they take the game to them and give no space a double can certainly be achieved.

And after becoming the side to win England's top flight the most times what could be next record for Fergie to try and topple. Well adding a fourth European cup would put them one behind Liverpool's record haul. Now that would rub salt into the wounds and would delight Fergie no end. I certainly wouldn't bet against it.

Big week for Manchester City and Mancini

Manchester City face one of the biggest weeks of their season, with an away trip to Liverpool followed by the FA Cup semi-final. Although an away Premier League tie might not seem all too important, especially in semis week, just take a look at the Premiership table and you'll soon see why it is.

At this time Tottenham lie three points behind City in the battle for a Champions League spot. This time round it is the northerners who look in pole position, with Harry Redknapps men beating the blues to fourth last year with victory on their own Eastlands pitch.

It would of course be very tempting for Roberto Mancini to rest players tonight, considering the injury crisis facing Kenny Daglish and his defeat last time out at West Bromwich Albion. In addition to the fixture list which seems in City's favour, they have to play Liverpool while Redknapps men have both Arsenal and Chelsea coming up before they travel to Eastlands in May.

Resting players though would be a grave mistake, a victory at Anfield could breathe huge confidence through the squad before Saturday. City players shouldn't need a pick me up for a Wembley date with rivals Manchester United, but there's nothing wrong with added confidence. A win tonight would also give them a six point cushion, with Spurs having a game in hand against their bitter North London rivals Arsenal.

City fans though are quite rightfully looking past tonight and ahead to Saturday, to a game that could be huge for both clubs. United fans take pride in informing City how long it's been since they last laid their hands on silverware, while the Red Devils are in the hunt for a treble.

After the huge amounts lavished to Mancini a trophy coupled with Champions League qualification must be the least expected. And in all honesty, no disrespect to Stoke or Bolton, but whoever comes out on top on between Mancini and Sir Alex Ferguson will see their sides installed as huge favourites for the final.

We are very near the curtain call of the 2010/11 season, and this week could ensure it is a memorable one for the blue half of Manchester.

Fernando Torres showing promise for Chelsea

Since his unprecedented £50m move from Anfield to Stamford Bridge, Fernando Torres hasn't exactly set the world alight with sparkling performances. Indeed the sulky stroppy Spaniard who was on display for much of the season in the northwest appears to have travelled to London. As much as we have heard how much happier he is at Chelsea, and how the dressing room is cheerier, on pitch displays haven't reflected this.

It has also been mooted how it has been well over a year since he showed top form for Liverpool, with people also doubting if he would regain that peak he once reached. On Wednesday's evidence though, things are definitely improving. Despite ultimately ending up on the losing end, his movement, link up play and overall desire seemed back. Even if that final yard of pace was still awry.

At Liverpool, and largely for Atletico Madrid, Torres was the main man. For large periods playing as a lone striker, whilst also being the biggest fish in the pond. Chelsea though is different, he is a big fish amongst other big fish. And that lone striker role he thrived under, could be a thing of the past. With a strike force that also contains Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka, who have performed better of late, it is unlikely Carlo Ancelotti will drop them both on a regular basis.

Against Manchester United he once again caused problems for a defence, at times. Off the ball runs were much better, whilst the quick feet and trickery we are all too used too also seemed back. Add this to a shot off the post, and a header expertly saved by Edwin Van Der Sar and the signs look good.

It was always well wide of the mark to suggest he wouldn't get some form back, but if he improves on this the summit of the scoring charts could await next season. Especially if the planned spending spree at Chelsea goes ahead, service and support could be much better. It was all a matter of adapting, and on last nights display it seems to be going well.

Capello hints at weakness

When the now infamous one sided 12-minute meeting took place at Wembley last year, it should've been the last time John Terry got near the England captaincy.

Fabio Capello himself even stated his decision to strip the armband from the Chelsea defender was irreversible.

That added to the farce witnessed in Copenhagen recently, when with the exception of Terry, every player, steward and fan seemingly got the chance to captain England.

It seemed to further highlight the Italians initial remarks.

Now though with Rio Ferdinand, the man who was awarded the captaincy, suffering from more and more injury woes and number two Steven Gerrard also out the door is open for JT.

The mind boggles.

It is one game versus Wales, why couldn't Wayne Rooney, Ashley Cole or Gareth Barry fill in in the absence of Ferdinand and Gerrard?

The Liverpool midfielder has also been praised by Capello when filling in for the Manchester United defender.

This latest move hints at desperation.

There is no doubt Terry is a born leader, but when the man in top job states "he will never be my captain again" the country took it as fact.

Now fans of the Three Lions will be questioning the motivation of the man who stirred such anticipation in the build up to last years World Cup.

Not only that, but communication in the FA could also come under the spotlight.

As Capello's own number two, Franco Baldini, phones Rio to assure him that the Terry rumours were simply that and to not take them seriously.

But a day later it is revealed that the rumours were spot on, and now we are hearing that Ferdinand is naturally very upset.

Lack of communication, desperation, and potential division in the squad and a manager who now doesn't stick to his word.

English football could be in trouble, and it could be highlighted in extreme fashion in the Millennium stadium later this month.

Whatever happened to: Freddy Adu

Remember him? The young American prodigy who was going to take the world by storm and put the United States on the footballing map.

A striker who broke an unbelievable amount of records and had the words top clubs, Manchester United, Chelsea and the like, clammering for his signature.

Promising huge sums of money in the process.

Well his lastest loan move to Rizespor in the Turkish Bank Asya 1 League highlights a dramatic fall from grace.

At the age of 14 he signed with DC United, and became the youngest player to appear in a Major League Soccer game.

Two weeks later Adu became the youngsest scorer in MLS history, and began to put his name on the world map.

2002 saw his United States under-17s debut, followed a year later by his first appearance for the under-20s.

This fast tracking added to the pressure on such young shoulders.

After four year at DC United, Adu shunned Europe for a move to Real Salt Lake.

However after less than a year, and two goals in 11 games, the big move finally came about.

But instead of joining one of Europe's elite, he rocked up in Portugal at Benfica.

In his first season he failed to set the side alite, matching his record for Real Salt Lake.

Following this came about a number of unsuccessful loans.

Firstly Monaco, who declined the offer of purchasing the forward at the end of the deal, Belenenses followed although he was released after a change of manager.

Greek side Aris Thessaloniki were next, were an 18 month deal ended early as Adu was phased out of the side.

Trails with several clubs followed, before his latest move to Rizespor.

This history does bring with it one question, how does such a young talent fade away so quickly?

My best guess would be all the pressure heaped on such a young boy, plus the celebrity status, became too much or he became too relaxed with it.

A youngster who was supposed to finally bring football, or soccer if you will, into the public domain amongst the other top sports in the USA.

But alas it was just not meant to be!

Transfer flops: Juan Sebastian Veron

In the first of our 'transfer flops' section, we have started big with Manchester United's near £30m, then record signing, of the Argentina midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron.

It may seem a tad over the top, for someone who was selected by Pele in his list of 125 greatest living footballer back in 2004.

But for anyone who can remember his torrid time in England will have no doubts about his inclusion in this one.

During his time at Lazio, Veron was part of a midfielder full of flair and where he was covered by defensive midfielders to allow him to stick to going forward.

However he had a big shock when Sir Alex Ferguson splashed out to take him to Old Trafford.

The Premier League didn't allow the same time on the ball of Serie A, plus Veron himself was also expected to put in a tackle or two himself.

Injuries and poor performances took their toll, with just seven goals in 51 games over two seasons.

And despite Fergie's insistence that he was a great player it was clear his time the North West of England would soon be at an end.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the Veron saga, was the fact Chelsea paid £15m to take him to Stamford Bridge to start the Roman Abramovich spending spree.

Claudio Ranieri is understood to have been key in securing a player who wanted to stay and prove a point with the Red Devils.

Despite getting off to a terrific start at Chelsea, scoring on his debut at Anfield, his time in London was less fruitful than in Manchester.

After just one season where he only managed that one goal in 14 appearances, he was promptly loaned out to Inter Milan and then Estudiantes.

Upon returning to Argentina Veron has shown the form which made the world sit up and take note before his time in England.

He has since been voted best player in the league and in South America, and also holds the captaincy.

Despite this though, on these shores and in many areas worldwide Veron will always be remembered as one of the most expensive transfer flops.

Future stars - Martin Kelly

To kick start the new future stars feature, we start on our shores with a young English defender that is really starting to make a name for himself.

20-year-old Liverpool youngster Martin Kelly is predominantly a centre back, but mostly finds himself deputising on the right side on defence.

A position where he is gaining huge plaudits, with some positive that in a few years he will not only be number one at his club but for the England national side too.

Sundays 2-0 home victory over Chelsea saw Kelly once again deployed in the right-back berth, after Glen Johnson suffered another injury set back, and together with the rest of the back four he performed admirably.

While the clubs number one Johnson often gets criticised for defensive lapses, this isn't a problem for one of the most promising players to come through the Liverpool academy in years.

His defensive abilities are getting better each performance, whilst he is also getting more confident going forward.

Emphasised with a wicked strike on Sunday that was just deflected round the post by the Chelsea defence.

Previous manager Rafael Benitez often seemed unwilling to bleed to many youngsters into the squad, but the fact he brought through Kelly speaks volumes.

His senior debut came in the Champions League during the 2008/09 season, when he came on as a substitute away to PSV Eindhoven.

With his first start coming in the same competition a little less than a year later, when Liverpool took on Lyon at Anfield.

After returning from injury next up was a call to the England under-21 side, where he rewarded Stuart Pearce with a goal on his debut against Uzbekistan.

In a world where football is hugely evolving, and there is a crying need for versatile full-backs who are equally adept at defending as well as attacking Kelly could thrive.

If he continues to get regular game time, the calls that he will be England's number one in a few years time could not be too far off the mark.

Chaos at Manchester United!

Fourth place in the league is not what was expected by fans on the red half of Manchester prior to this seasons big kick off, but that is just where they find themselves.

Although still unbeaten and level on points with Arsenal, everyone connected with the club will be worried about how they just keep on throwing away leads.

Fulham, Everton and West Bromwich Albion have all recovered from going behind, while Liverpool also came from two down but couldn't hold on and Bolton Wanderers also put the frighteners on them by twice going ahead.

For a team and set of fans well used to winning this just isn't good enough.

And the rumours surrounding Wayne Rooney don't help at all.

It is looking increasingly likely that the former Everton hitman could well be on his way, sooner or later.

Real Madrid and Barcelona are possible destinations, with Chelsea and Manchester City also in the frame as it is known he is not keen on a move abroad.

The problems are centred round Rooney's new contract, which he is now demanding £200,000 a week, and the ankle injuries or lack of which have led to him being dropped lately.

Although it is no secret that he is disturbingly out of form, cashing in isn't an options for the club if they are to remain challengers on all fronts.

They still haven't recovered from the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo, so another prized asset going could be too much.

Especially if he just drifts across the city and joins the blue half of Manchester, who would certainly match his wage demands.

Added to the twist is the hype surrounding Sir Alex Ferguson, who could also leave the club if you believe such things.

This however seems way wide of the mark, after all he hasn't fully knocked Liverpool of their perch yet.

They are still clinging their by the skin if their teeth.

United will no doubt recover from this and be their by the end of the season challenging for honours.

Fergie will no doubt steer his ship through these choppy waters and emerge stronger than ever once more.

Fernando Torres - Liverpool's latest transfer saga

It seems to be becoming somewhat of a yearly tradition at Liverpool, for a transfer sags to embroil to the club's summer activities.

In recent times it has been Gareth Barry, which actually stretched on for more than one summer, which we have also seen Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano wanting to leave the club.

None of those arrivals/departures would rock the club in such a way that Torres leaving would though, especially if he were to depart for a fellow Premier League club.

Since his £26.5m move to Anfield from Atletico Madrid, the Spaniard has revelled in a league he was tipped to fail.

The argument that he was too slight of frame to make a success in England was soon put to bed, and he now sits here 116 appearance and 72 goals later.

The Kop has grown to him more and more and despite his growing injury troubles, he is integral to the current rebuilding job that is taking place at Liverpool.

So the news that Manchester City are willing to pay £70m for his services, while some bookmakers have suspended betting of his Anfield exit is to put it mildly unwelcome.

Before this years World Cup the key to his future was believed to be Steven Gerrard, 'if he stays I stay' seeming to be the message.

However that is clearly not the case now, with Roy Hodgson not exactly sounding confident with his comments that Torres has problems with the club.

The 26-year-old has himself stated he would like to play in Italy, while it is no secret he would one day like to go back to his native Spain.

So should he leave this summer, Liverpool fans will be praying it isn't to a Premier League rival.

If that is the case, the Anfield legacy he is fast building could be thrown out of the window in double quick time.