Overrated Premier League Players who Have Already Been Exposed This Season

As we enter the second international period of the Premier League season, let us gaze back at what has happened thus far and judge those who haven't quite lived up to the hype thus far.

Some may well point to the early nature of the season, we are after all only seven games in, but in spite of that there are players country wide who have disappointed for one reason or another.

Be it a striker who is struggling to continue to add to a stunning start last term, a goalkeeper who has set himself high standards through his Premiership career, or an import which to some extent shocked the footballing world.

You may well have already figured out the three players who Sports Portal are going to highlight are, but if you haven't let us talk you through our reasons and why they feature.

Papiss Cisse - Newcastle United

One major reason why Newcastle soared to a fifth placed finish in the Premier League last season, was their january acquisition of Papiss Demba Cisse from Bundesliga side Freiburg.

Here his impressive goalscoring record had impressed many around Europe, and he also became the African to have scored the most goals in one season in Germany.

After arriving in the North-East he plundered 13 goals, many of which were wonder strikes, and it seemed he was something of a bargain.

This season has been an eye opener, however, and he has struggled to find the back of the net.

He two goals in the 2012/13 campaign coming in the League Cup against Manchester United, and at home to Bordeaux in the Europa League.

Those connected with the club will point to the young nature of the season, but will secretly be hoping he can net a Premier League goal sooner rather than later,

They will not want a Fernando Torres esque situation from last season happening.

Pepe Reina - Liverpool

For many reasons Pepe Reina may well be a Liverpool legend, after all he has displaced many previous records held at the club.

In December 2005, just a few short months after being recruited by Rafael Benitez, he chalked up 11 successive clean sheets.

In addition to this he recorded 28 shut outs in his first fifty games, surpassing the great Ray Clemence.
 
On top of that for three straight season he triumphed in winning the Premier League Golden Gloves, and performed heroics, albeit after some questionable goalkeeping, in the 2006 FA Cup final.

This season though some rather high profile gaffes have begun to creep in, on an all to frequent basis.

Of course those who stand between the sticks are on a small wire between success and failure, but it is always worrying when these mistakes creep in a little too much.

After last seasons poor showing Liverpool are keen to climb back up the league, and Reina will be hoping he can put in some stellar performances to help with that quest.

Julio Cesar - Queens Park Rangers

A Goalkeeper who arrived at Loftus Road with a big reputation, having enjoyed huge success during a seven year stay at Italian giants Inter Milan.

After joining in 2005 he quickly established himself as number one, overtaking the legendary Francesco Toldo, and set about bringing five Scudetti and a Champions League title to the club amongst other honours.

When Samir Handanovic arrived in the summer, having played nearly 200 times for Udinese, it spelt the end of the Brazlians stay at the San Siro though.

The two time Seria A goalkeeper of the year and 2009 Uefa Club Goalkeeper of the Year set off for England, determined to show his former employers they were wrong to get rid.

However, he has only proved what they perhaps already knew, that he is no longer part of the elite goalkeeping community.

It is harsh to lay the blame at one man for a club being bottom of the league, but his decision making has hardly been exemplary.

If he can improve between the sticks QPR may have a chance, if this slide continues it is difficult to see if they can raise themselves from the abyss.

Controversies Dominating Euro 2012

Wednesday sees the start of the semi-final stage of Euro 2012, where it is hoped, no more so than at Uefa towers, that on the field activities will start to be the major headline makers.

One of the biggest fears heading into this year's tournament was that racism would hit the headlines, an issue that has been simmering and has occasionally bubbled over since the opener between Poland and Greece.  However, Europe's football governing body has had to issue a number of fines thus far and has come under quite some flack for some of the amounts contained.

Fined

Perhaps the most trivial fine dished out so far was the £80,000 Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner was issued for flashing his 'lucky underpants.'  This of course related to the stunt after his second goal during Denmark's 3-2 group victory over Portugal.  With the words Paddy Power clearly visible on those lucky pants, it was the Irish bookmaker who paid the fine.

The mockery of this, is the near £65,000 Croatia were fined for "the setting-off and throwing of fireworks and the improper conduct of supporters (racist chants, racist symbols)."

Many were quick to add their voice to this issue. Is flashing your pants worse than racism?  Clearly the answer is no, and the way in which Uefa seem to be trying to brush these incidents under the carpet is little short of shocking.  The issue was again brought up yesterday, with news the Croats could be facing more action.  Setting off fireworks and the improper conduct of supporters, the displaying of racist banners and symbols, is the reason behind the latest proceedings.  If found guilty, the action taken against them should be hefty.

Another incident involved Russia and Poland supporters, where it is believed that police had to use water cannons and rubber bullets to help bring back a level of peace.  A statement by the police read:

"More than 183 hooligans were caught by the police because of disorders in Warsaw – firstly during the march to National Stadion, secondly in the Fanzone in Plac Defilad Square. Among the kept persons there are fans of both teams – Russian and Polish.

"There are 10 persons who are injured: 7 Polish, 2 Russians and 1 German – their lives are not in danger concerning the information from the medical services."

The latest involves England, who found themselves on the receiving end following the game with Sweden in the group stage.  A fine of just over £4,000 was issued due to the inappropriate behaviour of fans, who attempted a pitch invasion following the victory.

Take-Over

With many of those countries now eliminated, especially those concerning the more serious incidents, maybe we can now see the football take over the headlines.  The tournament has not exactly been mind blowing and full of tremendous football and standout matches.

Hopefully, as we enter the business end of Euro 2012, the hunger will set in amongst the players and coaches, and some superb performances will be exhibited.

Group D

England

Preparations haven’t exactly gone to plan, the manager has only been in place for around a month and the star player is suspended for the first two fixtures.  It is hard to see the positives; expectations are understandably excruciatingly low.

Qualification didn’t exactly go as smoothly as expected, but with five wins and three draws it crucially means they stayed unbeaten.  One plus point they can take is how the goals were shared, Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe, Ashley Young and Darren Bent, who unfortunately failed to make the cut through injury, all finished equal with three goals.

Two unconvincing 1-0 wins against Norway and Belgium have done little to generate any hope; realistically it seems like the quarter finals at best.  That is if they can navigate their way through the first games without their talisman.

Key Man

With Rooney suspended for those first two encounters, it is up to Steven Gerrard to really stand up and be counted as captain.  As one of the remaining members of the ‘golden generation,’ you would expect that this will be his last chance to taste success at international level.

Over the years he has been seen dragging Liverpool out of the mire time and time again, similar inspirational performances could be required this summer.  If takes responsibility to stand up and be counted, the others may well just follow suit.

One To Watch

Arsenal wonder kid Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain could explode on to the scene, if given the chance this summer.  Although well known on our shores, on a European and Worldwide scale knowledge of the 18-year-old will not be as vast.

His fearless nature could be his real advantage, not afraid to turn and run at a Defender no matter who they are and no matter their reputation.  He will however have to overhaul club mate Theo Walcott and maybe the preferred James Milner for that chance though.

France

Laurent Blanc has worked wonders to transform a team that performed so miserably at the World Cup two years ago, into genuine contenders this time around.  There is undoubted talent running right through the side, and the 4-0 demolition of Estonia in their final warm up, accompanied by some lovely goals, was the perfect tonic.

However, it didn’t look all so rosy in Blanc’s first competitive game in charge.  A 1-0 home defeat to Belarus threatened to derail their campaign before it had even began.  Four consecutive victories thereafter though turned things around, and three draws and two wins in the final five games was enough to seal qualification.

Key Man

When plying his trade in France Karim Benzema was one of the hottest properties in the world, but after opting for Real Madrid his performances fell off.  Now though he is justifying the €30m, and under Jose Mourinho has been flourishing in La Liga as his side ended the Barcelona monopoly and stormed to the title.

Benzema is now charged with leading the French attack into Euro 2012, but will have to be on the top of the game to keep Olivier Giroud on the bench.  The Montpelier hit man has flourished when given a chance in the national side, and will be determined to showcase his talents this summer.

One To Watch

One man the Premier League has been hearing a lot about in recent months is holding midfielder Yann M’Vila.  Despite only having made a handful of appearances at international level his stock continues to rise, with his club resigned to losing him this summer.  Arsenal are long time admirers and have been urged to make a move by many parties, but many other top European club are waiting in the wings ready to make a move.

Sweden

Perennial nemesis of the Three Lions, you could almost sense that the same group would beckon for these nations.  After failing to qualify for the World Cup in South Africa, Sweden will be keen to make amends and progress from the group stages would be seen as huge positive.

However it nearly didn’t happen this time around either, with seven victories and two defeats in nine qualifiers they need to beat the Netherlands at home to secure their place.  Not an easy prospect against a side who had stormed all put before them, but they duly delivered and progressed in a best runners up spot.

Key Man

When you think of Sweden, the imperious Zlatan Ibrahimovic springs to mind.  Wherever he has plied in trade he has scored goals galore, but the one major doubt that has blighted his career in his ability to do so at the very highest level.  If Sweden are to progress here though they will need him on top form and firing on all cylinders.

One To Watch

Sebastian Larsson could perhaps go down as one of the most underrated players in the Premier League.  The Sunderland midfield has a terrific crossing ability, often makes a nuisance of himself by getting in the right areas in and around the box and everyone knows of his tremendous quality from dead ball situations.  These qualities could be key for Ibrahimovic finding the net on a regular basis, you have been warned.

Ukraine

The co-hosts qualify automatically of course, so Ukraine have been preparing through a series of friendlies.  When their crippling injury problems didn’t take over that that is.  They will take huge heart from last years draw with Germany and the fact they are currently unbeaten in four, but on the whole results have been four.  With the greatest of respects to Ukraine, you would expect it to be a straight fight between the other three teams in the group for the top two spots.

Key Man

The most capped player in Ukrainian footballing history will have to be at his ultimate best if Ukraine are to avoid being whipping boys.  Step forward Anatoliy Tymoshchuk.  The Bayern Munich midfielder is the rock at the heart of the midfield, and will to produce inspirational performances to spur on his troops.

One To Watch

22-year-old winger and striker Andriy Yarmolenko could well be the one big hope for a bright future for Ukrainian football.  After netting on his international debut, he followed that up last year by underlining his credentials with a goal against Germany.

He has progressed through the ranks at Dynamo Kiev and has been a full international for some three years, he could well be on to bigger and better things with a good showing this summer.

England Euro 2012: Over before it's begun?

To say the build up hasn't been ideal would be putting things very mildly indeed, as Englishman we are used to the ruff and tumble world of the national team.  The last few months however have contributed to serve up a stark reminder of how far behind we actually are, in fact the last week could have done that all on it's own.

If we cast our mind back it was the Football Association's decision to strip John Terry of the captain's armband, for a second time, that led to Fabio Capello stepping aside.  The FA then decided it would wait until the end of the season, or very near to, to appoint his successor.  Giving the new man a month, or thereabouts, to prepare for a major tournament.  Perfect!

The country was swept with Harry Redknapp fever, but it was in fact Roy Hodgson who was given the hot seat.  His squad selection caused debate, two scrappy 1-0 wins did nothing to raise expectation and then the whole injury dilemma kicked in.  For a team well prepared this latter problem would be fairly difficult to deal with, so for England at the moment it must verge on catastrophic.  Not to mention Time Magazine's 'world's most disappointing team' tag, something that is hard to disagree with.

The injury to Gary Cahill is the latest debate, why on earth hasn't Rio Ferdinand been given the chance to join up?  A country once again castrating the new man in the job before he has even been given a fair crack of the whip.  Why not just give him a chance to do things his way and then judge when he has gone?

The Euro's are no doubt a lost cause so it's all about preparing for the World Cup in Brazil 2014, so in that case the selection of Martin Kelly is surely a good one.  Giving the future of English football the chance to travel and be around the squad at a major tournament could be ideal, as it could with the likes of Phil Jones, Jordan Henderson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Hodgson is causing plenty of debate

In that case why not stand back, with the already low expectations, and judge how our appearance in this competition could help progression in the future.  Why take an ageing Rio Ferdinand who won't be making the trip to South America in two years time?  Let's make a decision to leave some of the ageing stars at home, and blend youth in with this squad.  Those who will be charged with taking the country forward, hopefully, for many years to come.

The recent friendly against Belgium did, however, highlight a huge gulf that does exist.  Hodgson's well organised troops did of course close out the victory, but by having a look at the playmaker of both teams you can see the difference.

Ashley Young v Eden Hazard: minutes played 67-90, passes 7-71, assists 1-0, key passes 3-6, shots 0-4, pass completion 58%-87%.  

Many will point to the assist statistic, but the truth is give away that much against a more accomplished opposition and you will be punished.  And there lies the major problem.

Flair is not something we are overly used to, but will have to become a major feature should we progress.  Can this be brought in two years before the next World Cup?  Roy will certainly have to break a defensive habit that currently exists, but let's sit back and let him go about trying his way.

Transfer Flops - Afonso Alves

Middlesbrough FC aren't exempt from the odd calamitous transfer, but Afonso Alves must be soaring high above the rest.  The clubs current record transfer spectacularly failed to live up to expectations, before being shipped of to Qatar just a year after joining.

The Brazilian started his carrer at Atletico Mineiro, before making a move to Europe after a handful of appearances and goals.

It wasn't however one of the big leagues that drew his attention, with Alves moving to Sweden and Orgryte.  However he only here a year before making another step up after a successful showing.  After a goal ratio that bettered one in every other game, Malmo FF signed the striker and he spearheaded the club to a League title in his debut season.

Alves lasted one more season before getting on the move once again, this time to Holland where he became Heerenveen's record signing at £3.5m.  It was here that he enjoed most success, plundering over 30 goals in his debut season after netting seven in only his second appearance for the club.

Following two seasons at the Dutch club, and not exempt from controversy, Alves made what he hoped would be a big step towards the big time.  The Premier League beckoned, with Middlesbrough paying over £12m to secure his services.  However his time on teeside soon turned sour, when it became clear he was well on the road to becoming a very expensive mistake.

Alves during his difficult time at Middlesbrough

His solitary season in the Premiership will no doubt be remembered for some time, with his lack of firepower resulting in the club being relegated to the Championship.  Middlesbrough cut their losses, and perhaps did well to recoup over half the fee paid.

Al Saad is where Alves headed this time, lasting only a few months before accepting a loan offer from anthother Qatari club, this time Al Rayyan.

Goals began to flow once more, before a ligament injury late in 2010 sidelined him for some considerable time.  He is however back playing and back amongst the goals.

On the international front Alves received a first international call up in 2007 whilst still plying his trade in Holland, almost scoring against England before his ill fated spell on those shores.  A Copa America win followed but it wasn't long before those appearances in a Brazil shirt soon dried up.

Transfer flops - Chris Sutton

Sutton being presented as a Chelsea player

You wouldn't think that someone who has over 150 career goals could be thought of as a transfer flop, but after a big money move to Chelsea the striker spectacularly failed to live up to the price tag and expectations.  However that is what happened to Chris Sutton when he headed to London, after earning many plaudits in previous spells with Norwich City and Blackburn Rovers.

It was with the Canaries where he began his career, making over a century of appearances and averaging around a goal every three games.  In three years at Carrow Road his reputation was suitably enhanced and it wasn't long before links with big money moves away started to be touted.

Ewood Park was Sutton's next destination, when Blackburn Rovers made him the most expensive player in English football at £5m in 1994.  It was here that the infamous SAS partnership was formed with Alan Shearer, with the pair spearheading the Rovers attack and leading the side to it's maiden, and still only, Premier League title.

However following this success the squad started to break up, and relegation mire ensued.  In 1999 following inevitable relegation Sutton departed, heading to Stamford Bridge where it was hoped an Englishman could succeed amongst the plethora of nationalities.

During his Villa stint

This proved not to be the case.  Following the £10m move he immediately started to struggle, a problem that stretched the whole season and has been adapted by big money strikers that have since made the move to Chelsea.  One season, including an FA Cup final where he didn't even make the squad, and one league goal later his bags were packed again.

This time the Scottish Premier League (SPL) was the destination, where he averaged nearly a goal every two games in a five and a half year stint at Celtic.  Following his successes in Scotland Sutton returned south to try his luck in the Premiership, but again it didn't really work out.  Half a season at Birmingham City was followed by a year at Aston Villa, before an attempt at management was undertaken.

Sutton also only managed one cap for the national side, after representing England at under-21, B and senior level.

All change in England squad

England interim Head Coach Stuart Lancaster

With one squad selection the ghost of World Cup past has been shed, and a new era has been ushered in to the world of English Rugby Union.  New Zealand is to be ushered out, highlighted at this weeks press conference within which the elite squad was announced with the word barely mentioned..  The 32 men selected are to lead their country into this years six nations, defending the crown Martin Johnson led his side to last year despite a last game loss in Ireland. 

A lot was made of the benefits of selecting an interim coach, could a big impact seriously be made or would it just paper over cracks on the short term.  Only for them to be highlighted once again once the tournament gets underway next month.

One thing is for certain, with this selection Stuart Lancaster has selected what will hopefully form the basis of the squad for the next World Cup to be held on these shores.  When he stated "this is a new era for England," he clearly showed this is a building job with 2015 the ultimate target.

A new younger breed has been brought in, while the old guard have been shown the door.  Jonny Wilkinson, Lewis Moody and Steve Thompson, all former World Cup winners, retired following last years New Zealand showpiece.  While Mike Tindall, Mark Cueto, Nick Easter, Shontayne Hape and Riki Flutey have all failed to make the grade.

Toby Flood, Manu Tuilagi and Courtney Lawes are all on the short term injury list, but more crucially Andrew Sheridan, Louis Deacon and Richard Wigglesworth will miss the entire tournament.

Saracens new star Owen Farrell

Amongst the new breed it is Owen Farrell who has hit the head lines after a string of stellar performances, being one of nine uncapped players to be selected.  His Saracens midfield team mate Brad Barritt is also included, while a partnership with team mate Charlie Hodgson could also be on the cards with Flood set to miss the first two encounters.

Dave Atwood, Geoff Parling, Alex Goode and Henry Trinder, the last three all uncapped, are also included after gaining promotion from the Saxons to cover for some of those on the treatment table.  Scarlets number eight Ben Morgan earns a place after declaring his allegiance to his country of birth and not Wales for whom he qualifyed under a three year residency rule, with Northampton Saints back row Calum Clark perhaps the boldest selection.

It is not yet known who will the captain the side with Tom Wood and Chris Robshaw though to be front runners although it is believed Lancaster wants a host of other names to step up, he said:  "The most important thing is to get the leadership group right. We need to develop a new group of leaders. From there, natural leaders will emerge."

Tom Palmer proves an exception to the Rugby Football Unions now overseas player rule, stepping in for James Haskell who is in Japan on sabbatical.  On the largely youthful side selected, Lancaster added:  "We've picked a side which is exciting, talented and committed to get us back to where we want to be, at the top of the game.
"I've spoken to those not selected and told them the door is not closed.
"But I want to use this Six Nations as an opportunity to develop the next players in those positions and develop a leadership group that is strong and wants to be the best.
"We think it's a tremendous opportunity to build a squad that has potential for now and for the future.
"We trust the players we have selected, a lot have been involved for a while and have been to the World Cup.
"They have been on the cusp of it for a while. Now they deserve their chance after proving themselves in big games for their clubs."

The England squad in full is as follows:


Forwards:  Props: A Corbisiero (London Irish), D Cole (Leicester Tigers), J Marler (Harlequins), M Stevens (Saracens), D Wilson (Bath Rugby); Hookers: D Hartley (Northampton Saints), L Mears (Bath Rugby), R Webber (London Wasps); Locks: M Botha (Saracens), L Deacon (Leicester Tigers), C Lawes (Northampton Saints), T Palmer (Stade Francais); Back-rows: C Clark (Northampton Saints), T Croft (Leicester Tigers), P Dowson (Northampton Saints), B Morgan (Scarlets), C Robshaw (Harlequins), T Wood (Northampton Saints).

Backs:  Full-backs: M Brown (Harlequins), B Foden (Northampton Saints); Wings: C Ashton (Northampton Saints), C Sharples (Gloucester Rugby), D Strettle (Saracens); Centres: B Barritt (Saracens), O Farrell (Saracens), M Tuilagi (Leicester Tigers), J Turner-Hall (Harlequins); Fly-halves: T Flood (Leicester Tigers), C Hodgson (Saracens); Scrum-halves: L Dickson (Northampton Saints), J Simpson (London Wasps), B Youngs (Leicester Tigers).

Goodbye Jonny Wilkinson

Wilkinson kicked England to World Cup glory

English Rugby lost of the finest players of a generation yesterday when Jonny Wilkinson announced his retirement from test rugby.  The mercurial Fly-Half will no doubt forever be remembered for that drop goal in Sydney in 2003, bringing the World Cup back to these shores after defeating hosts Australia in the final.

However he was much more than that.  From a young age he was tipped for the very top, while his training routines, and more importantly kicking practises, are notorious.  He was not only a tremendous goal kicker, the best for many years, his offensive distribution was also second to none whilst defensively he was equally as solid.  Just hear some of the stories from opponents he has faced over the years,  he was an all round Fly-Half, arguably transforming the position with each performance. 

It was no coincidence that when he was playing his best rugby so were England, just cast your mind back to a shoulder that was once in full working order.  Some of the performances he has put in over the years have just been immense, and it is justified that many people connected to the game have been falling over themselves to heap praise on the Toulon star.

Lewis Moody, an ex international team mate, said to Radio 5 live: 
"Jonny is one of the most professional individuals I have ever worked with.
"He put everything into what he did, it was incredible to watch him."
He added:  "It's a real shame he's decided to retire, but what he's given to English rugby is immense.
"He was ferocious in the tackle, it was one of the things that made him so special at fly-half.
"He brought his own mark to the fly-half role, and he dedicated himself to being the best he could be.
"It was inspiring to train with him, he was a very controlled player, a calming influence on the pitch - I was privileged to play on the same pitch as him."

Clive Woodward, who handed Wilkinson his international debut in 1998, was equally as complimentary, telling the BBC:  "The way he defended and attacked, he was a very special player.

In action for club side Toulon

"All of us involved in that team [in 2003] just felt very lucky and privileged to have had him around at that time.
"He would have taken the decision to retire very seriously but he will still be playing for Toulon, and he has been playing very well for Toulon.
"I'd just like to say well done to him. He has done so much for not just English rugby but also world rugby on the field, and especially off the field."

Woodward went on to talk about the injury problems Wilkinson suffered in the latter stages of his international career, adding:  Every player has injuries and he probably had more than his fair share but that was the way he played the game.
"I remember trying to keep him out of rucks so many times and trying to keep him out of contact but that wasn't him, he wanted to get involved.
"He would smash into rucks and that was because he wanted to be a real team player.
"He has had a long career. He came into the side when he was 18 and this is the end of an era and it is perhaps fitting that we move on from that era now."

With Stuart Lancaster now taking temporary charge of the international fold, supported by Graham Rowntree and Andy Farrell, perhaps the time was right to call time.  It in no doubt the end of an era, but now the team can progress with eyes towards the 2015 World Cup and hopefully a new golden age for English Rugby.  It won't be easy to find the next Wilkinson, but that is what the new management team are charged with.

Whilst there is now only one real winner with the announcement of the news.  French club Toulon be the recipients of Wilkinson's undivided attention.

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.

England - lets not get carried away

Two friendly wins from two, an unbeaten 2011 and a Goalkeeper that is still to taste defeat in a Three Lions jersey in some 16 appearances.  It is easy to see why England fans could get carried away with this sides progress, however that would be way too premature and slightly foolish.  Have we not learned from the past?

In many a tournament during my lifetime the same thing happens, people get carried away in the immediate build up thinking victory is inevitable.  Only for that idyllic scenario to explode, and then flows the criticism.  While from the stats this year point to a roaring success, results haven't always been the best.  And if we are perfectly honest, we still fall way behind a lot of nations worldwide.

Don't get me wrong, I am by no means saying we are down in the doldrums, just that we are a side slap band in the middle of transition.  Players like Daniel Sturridge, Jack Rodwell, Kyle Walker etc, who featured in the two recent friendlies, aren't going to immediately come into the side and turn us into world beaters.  We are building for the future, and just how long did it take Spain to become this unbelievable force that we currently see?

However if we can bed these youngsters alongside more experienced members of this side, there's no dount the future could be bright.  Wayne Rooney is of course the fulcrum of the national team, but will be missing for the group games in Euro 2012, the FAs appeal to Fifa aside.  Scott Parker is arguably the best thing to come out of Fabio Capello's era, he looks a natural and picked up another man of the match award against World Champions Spain.  While Defensively we recently looked solid, it can be up and down and as previously mentioned Joe Hart will be number one between the stick for atleast a decade.  Plus there's always the highly regarded under-21s under Stuart Pearce's leadership.

But that is all the future, let's retract and bring it back to the present.  If the Spain game taught us one thing, it was that we need to be more confortable and controlling when in possession.  Vicente Del Bosque's side pegged England back for the majority of the match, and even the most die hard of fans would have to admit we were, at least, a touch fortunate.  Compared to side's of this quality we simply don't come close, there would certainly be no repeat of this score line if we came up against Spain in more serious circumstances.

Sweden was a different kettle of fish.  A nation we hadn't defeated for over three decades, with a very experimental side put out by the Italian.  Walker proving the stand out performer in the 1-0 win, and perhaps proving a real contender to Glen Johnson who continues to divide opinion.

There aren't many games left until Euro 2012 now, and for once I just hope the usual hype doesn't consume this country once again.  Lay off, lessen the pressure and they could well perform at a good standard, although winning the thing will prove one or two steps too far.

England and Spain primed for battle

A huge test awaits England at Wembley this Saturday when World and European Champions Spain take to the hallowed turf.  Both squads have now been announced, with it being the home side who have caused the most talking points.

The biggest of which has caused consternation throughout the blue side of Manchester and beyond, and concerns Micah Richards.  Manchester City's right-back has been in red hot form this season, putting in a number of eye catching displays but not it seems to Fabio Capello.  Glen Johnson returns, while Phil Jones, who has been operating in that position for Richards cross city rivals Manchester United, is also included as is Tottenham full back Kyle Walker.  Following the announcement Richards took to twitter to voice his feelings saying "Well well well!!!! Disappointed is an understatement!!," Before refusing to spit his dummy and vow to work harder, later tweeting "Oh well better look next time! Roll the sleeves up and work harder!"  Phone in's up and down the country have been inundated with baffled fans, while Richard's ex-City team mate Joey Barton also took to twitter to voice his views, adding "Don't understand Eng Squad. No Newcastle players?? No Micah Richards?? Surely he has to be Man City 5 pts clear, MoM at Old T and skipper??"

With England seemingly going through a period of transition, surely it would have made sense to try out some new faces, or those that haven't featured for a while, ahead of next years European Championships in Poland and Ukraine.  This isn't to say there aren't new faces in the squad, Jack Rodwell has been promoted from the under-21s and while Daniel Sturridge could also earn his first cap, while Gabriel Agbonlahor is also to be given a chance to shine.  Richards however has been one of the stand out performers in this seasons Premier League, and it does very much seem to be a baffling absence.

Liverpool striker Andy Carroll's omission on the other hand is less puzzling.  The £35m forward is struggling to live up to his billing at Anfield, and the chance missed at the weekend, when hitting the bar, and a gilt edged headed chance he put wide against Norwich City have probably hampered his claim.  It may be a new regime on the red half of Merseyside, but Carroll very much needs to start firing if he is to live up to the hefty price tag Kenny Dalglish splashed out to bring him to the club during the January transfer window.

Spain have announced a strong squad for the match, and have included the bulk of the players that helped the side to their Euro and World Cup triumphs.  Four Premier league players could potentially feature, while over half the squad is made up of players from the nations big two clubs of Real Madrid and Barcelona.  Vicente Del Bosque's world beaters will no doubt head in as favourites, a tag you can't argue with, and barring a tremendous effort from The Three Lions, will prove to be far too strong.

England squad in full:

Joe Hart (Man City), Scott Carson (Bursaspor), David Stockdale (Ipswich); Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Man Utd), Gary Cahill (Bolton), John Terry (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Leighton Baines (Everton), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Man City), Kyle Walker (Tottenham); Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Jack Rodwell (Everton), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Gareth Barry (Man City), Adam Johnson (Man City), James Milner (Man City), Scott Parker (Tottenham), Theo Walcott (Arsenal); Darren Bent (Aston Villa), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea), Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa), Bobby Zamora (Fulham), Danny Welbeck (Man Utd)

Spain squad in full:

Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Jose Reina (Liverpool), Victor Valdes (Barcelona); Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Alvaro Arbeloa (Real Madrid), Carles Puyol (Barcelona), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Jordi Alba (Valencia), Raul Albiol (Real Madrid), Nacho Monreal (Malaga); Xavi (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Santi Cazorla (Malaga), Javi Martinez (Athletic Bilbao), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona); David Villa (Barcelona), David Silva (Manchester City), Fernando Torres (Chelsea), Fernando Llorente (Athletic Bilbao), Juan Mata (Chelsea), Jesus Navas (Sevilla)

No more years of hurt for New Zealand

After 24 long and painful years, containing near misses and tragic failures, New Zealand finally have their hands on the Webb Ellis Trophy once again.  All those years ago France were once again the victims, but this time around it was much closer and Les Blues came mighty close to spoiling the party.

The 8-7 scoreline highlights how The All Blacks were nearly pipped to the post.  Amongst the post match celebration, relief must have been a huge factor.  Tony Woodcock's early try seemed like it would settle the hosts, but the underdogs, overwhelmingly beaten by New Zealand in the group stage and also suffering a loss to Tonga, refused to be beaten.

Thierry Dusautoir, today named International Rugby Board player of the year as some consolation, as he and his forwards pressed at the scrum and line out.  When the captain slid in under the posts and Francois Trinh-Duc converted, a stadium was stunned and a tense last half hour followed.

It was left to Stephen Donald to slot over a late penalty, and some late defensive heroics to seal the win.  The 27-year-old had started the tournament way down the pecking order, and only last week was on a fishing trip, and he couldn't quite believe it after the final whistle.  Talking to the BBC he said: 
"My preparation wasn't ideal but it was an unreal experience.
"To pretty much come from nowhere just feels funny. It hasn't sunk in yet."
He added:  "You always dream about things like playing in World Cups, but as number four in line you start to give that up a bit. But when I got the call I felt like the dream just got that much closer to reality again.
"To pretty much come from nowhere and find yourself playing in a World Cup final is an unreal experience - it just feels funny. It hasn't sunk in yet, and it's the same for the rest of the guys. They were just sitting around the changing room, not moving much and not saying much.
"The coaches said to me to be ready because it could come down to me having to kick the winning goal, and that is exactly how it panned out."

Following the injury to inspirational Fly-Half Dan Carter earlier in the tournament, some doubted whether this side could fulfill it's years of planning to triumph on home soil.  These doubts were heightened when Captain Richie McCaw fell to injury, luckily though it wasn't too serious and he was able to return to lead his side in the knockout faze.  Piri Weepu performed heroics in the semi-final victory over Australia, taking on the tactical nous of Carter, but found himself a little out of his depth in the final but crucially New Zealand had the supplies to call on to get over the line.

Many sides had huge hopes coming into this tournament, and true the trophy could have gone back to any number of countries.  Australia and South Africa are always strong, England always confident but marred by off field antics, Ireland played some excellent rugby and defeated The Wallabies but were undone by a Wales side unlucky to have Sam Warbuton sent off in their semi-final loss to the runners up.

It is now on to England 2015, and while there's room for improvement in hosting a tournement they do have a huge act to follow.  New Zealand will no doubt head over as favourties, and Red Rose amongst others have some growing up to do, but right now it's about a nation that will celebrate a victory that is long long over due.

Stoke City

Tony Pulis has turned Stoke City into a formidable Premier League side, whose fans are among the fiercest, and loudest, England's top tier has to offer. Often criticised for what people believe to be a bullish mentality, the side now contains some flair and is starting to shed the long ball tag that was associated with them for so long. They will be hoping to better last seasons 13th place finish this time round.

Goalkeeper

Asmir Begovic is widely expected to cement the number one spot this season, casting a shadow over Thomas Sorenson's future at The Potters. Having two good quality keepers though is by no means a bad thing, and during their time at the top table of English football this has never been a worry.

Defence

Big imposing centre half's are the order of the day, with Captain Ryan Shawcross and Robert Huth forming a good partnership over the years. The signing of Jonathan Woodgate is a risk, but if they can keep him fit, a problem for many of his past clubs, then he could prove to be one of the best captures of the window.

Midfield


Their is quite a creative edge in this side now, bucking the trend of a few years back. Matthew Etherington is arguably the main man in this side, but Jermaine Pennant has also settled down and produced some good displays after a disappointing few years. There is quite a lot of strength in the middle of the park, so this side seems quite well stocked.

Forwards

A new front man seems to on Pulis's agenda, but just who that person is remains a mystery. The long chase for Carlton Cole has gone a bit awry, but it wouldn't be a surprise if by the end of the window his is plying his trade at The Brittania. If a new man does arrive though, there will have to be a clear out of some of the deadwood.

Manager

Despite the belief that Stoke area a one dimensional side, Pulis has got them playing some good football. He has firmly transformed them into a Premiership side, and it doesn't look like they will be leaving the top table any time soon.

Areas to Strengthen

A new striker could be on the cards, with no real 20+ goal front man on the books. Elsewhere this side looks all set for another mid tabled finish, maybe a bit of strength in depth could be added to ensure progression on last term.

Expectations

Mid table shouldn't be too far out of reach for this side, although any kind of improvement on last season will please everyone involved with this club. The Brittania is not an easy place to go and win, and the Stoke faithful will no doubt be the loudest once more as they roar their team up the table.

Odds

2000/1 (Sky Bet)

Players in

Jonathan Woodgate free (Tottenham) Matthew Upson free (West Ham United) Cameron Jerome £4m (Birmingham City) Peter Crouch £10m (Tottenham Hotspur) Wilson Palacios £8m (Tottenham Hotspur)

Players out

Carl Dickinson £250,000 (Watford)Abdoulaye Faye free (West Ham United) Eidur Gudjohnsen free (AEK Athens) Ibrahima Sonko free (Ipswich Town) Andrew Davies loan (Crystal Palace)  Zack Foster, Jack Harrison, Alexander Hedley, Cameron Mitchell, David Parton, Laton Wint (all released)

Bolton Wanderers

Under the astute guidance of Owen Coyle Bolton showed steady, if unspectacular, progress last term. The loan signing of Daniel Sturridge, following that of Jack Wilshire, seemed inspired and a few more like that could see his side propel up the table. Wanderers have not been a side to sink into relegation battles too much over recent seasons, and another mid (ish) table finish could be more likely. 

Goalkeeper

Jussi Jaaskelainen has been one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League during his stay of over a decade. It is incredible that he has not been snatched by a bigger side either here or on the continent. Ali Al Hadsi has departed for fierce rivals Wigan Athletic, but in Adam Bogdan Bolton still have a competent deputy.

Defence

Gary Cahill continues to be linked with the higher echelons of the English game, but even if he were to depart The Trotters would still be ok in the centre of their defence. Zat Knight and David Wheater would be more than able to fill in, but it is at full back where they could perhaps suffer. There is no doubt they are solid defensively, but is the quality there to be the attacking full backs modern day football seems to demand?

Midfield

Down the years The Reebok Stadium side have had a solid midfield, typically tough to break down whilst also having enough creativity to challenge in the attacking third. Fabrice Muamba along with new boy Nigel Reo Coker provide the steel, whilst Stuart Holden and Martin Petrov are full of creative juices. However it could perhaps be Chung-Yong Lee, who has admiring glances from higher in the game, who is the main attraction in the middle.

Forward

Johan Elmander has departed for Galatasaray and Sturridge has gone back to Chelsea, so certain improvement is needed. Captain Kevin Davies is sure to be the focal point of the attack once again, while Ivan Klasnic will feature at times, but a proven goalscorer is a necessity.

Manager

Coyle has endeared himself to the Wanderers faithful since his controversial move from Burnley, and will no doubt make further improvements in the 2011/12 season. He has built a good side on years of solid foundations, and it wont take much for a mid table finish or higher to become a reality.

Areas to Strengthen

The most important thing on the shopping list should be a proven goalscorer to work alongside Kevin Davies. Sturridge proved a sensation at the back end of last term, but a similar deal looks unlikely, so other targets need to indentified as without it this side could struggle for goals.

Expectations

After a 14th placed finish last year, it wouldn't take much for this side to improve and march up the table. For that to happen though, as mentioned, goals will need to come from somewhere.

Odds

2500/1 (Sky Bet)

Players In

Darren Pratley free (Swansea City) Nigel Reo Coker free (Aston Villa) Chris Eagles and Tyrone Mears joint £3m (Burnley) David Ngog undisclosed (Liverpool) Tuncay Sanli loan (Wolfsburg) Dedryck Boyata loan (Manchester City) Gael Kakuta loan (Chelsea) 

Players Out

Ali Al Habsi £4m (Wigan Athletic), Matt Taylor undisclosed (West Ham United) Andrew Burns free (Bradford City) Johan Elmander free (Galatasaray) Jason Brown free (Aberdeen) Ricardo Gardner, Jlloyd Samuel, Joey O'Brien, Tamir Cohen, Sam Sheridan, Maison McGeechan, Tom Eckersley (all released)

Blackburn Rovers

Under Venky's it was widely expected that Blackburn would be a tad flashy this summer, but so far this summer their only big venture into the transfer market has been to sell Phil Jones to Manchester United. Rumours are rife around Ewood Park, and new bodies will need to be brought in if Steve Kean is to improve on last seasons 15th place finish.

Goalkeeper

This isn't really an issue at the Lancashire based side, with Paul Robinson continuing to draw plaudits and Mark Bunn an adequate replacement. After his arrival from Spurs the ex England international has never failed to impress, so this is definitely a solid foundation from which to build.

Defence

A potential sticky point with only just over two weeks left to the curtain raiser of this seasons Premier League. Jones has already left and rumours continue to link Chris Samba to both Spurs and Arsenal, this will no doubt bring in money to be respent but will a player of equal quality be found? Michel Salgado isn't getting any younger, but Captain Ryan Nelsen will continue to be a rock at the hear at the Rovers defence.

Midfield

David Dunn is no doubt the gem of the side, whose creativity is heavily relied upon. However with increasing injury problems over the last couple of seasons, Blackburn's midfield has begun to grow independent of Dunn. Morten Gamst Pedersen now looks likely to stay after many windows of being linked away, Steven N'Zonzi continues to impress while Argentine Mauro Formica should play a more central role this time round.

Forwards

It is on the front line where this side could need the most strengthening. Nikola Kalinic and El Hadji Diouf look certain to leave, while Junior Hoilett is staying but he can by no means be expected to lead the line and provide a huge goals tally to propel the side up the table. Ruben Rochina, who arrived at the same time as Formica, should figure more this season but they still seem a bit short.

Manager

 

Steve Kean was thrust in charge of this side after the shock sacking of predecessor Sam Allardyce, and came dangerously close to falling to falling off that tight rope himself. There is some talent within this squad, but it seems like not quite enough to stay away from a relegation dog fight just yet.

Areas to Strengthen 

With a Jones shaped void in defence that could quickly be joined by Samba, it is imperative that a possible leaky back line is patched up fast. Without new additions here the Premier League's front men would run riot. In addition to this one maybe two striker need to be added to boost fire power, and if you believe the rumour mills Kean is intensely looking at the area. If there's any cash left after that, maybe a bit more creativity in the middle of the park.

Expectations

With the squad currently at his disposal, kean could expect nothing more than a place perched just above the drop zone. Similarly to last season. However with some good signings, a mid tabled finish is more than achievable.

Odds

2500/1 (Sky Bet) 

Players In

David Goodwillie £2m (Dundee United) Radosav Petrovic undisclosed (Partizan Belgrade)Myles Anderson free Bruno Ribeiro free Simon Vukcevic undisclosed (Sporting Lisbon) Scott Dann £8m (Birmingham City) Ayegbeni Yakubu undisclosed (Everton) Jordan Slew £1.1m (Sheffield United)

Players Out

Phil Jones £16m (Manchester United) Frank Fielding £400,000 (Derby County) Brett Emerton free (Sydney) Nikola Kalinic undisclosed (Dnipro)  Zurab Khizanishvili, Jordan Bowen, Jason Brown, Michael Potts, Benjani Mwaruwari, Maceo Rigters (all released) Keith Andrews loan (Ipswich Town)

Transfer flops: Helder Postiga

When a highly rated young striker heads to the Premier League from the continent, it is always a hugely exciting time for which ever side the prodigy chooses. That was exactly the case at Tottenham Hotspur in 2003, when Glen Hoddle brought an exciting Portuguese 21-year-old to White Hart Lane.

That man was of course Helder Postiga, the fleet footed exciting goal getter who arrived from Jose Mourinho's FC Porto for £6.25m. So what next for a young man who was tipped to reach the highest echelons of the football world? Surely a tremendous season in which he captured the imagination of fans worldwide?

Well it didn't exactly go to plan. A season that very much fell below the required standard was followed by a swift return to his native Portugal. After a solitary disappointing Premier League goal, FC Porto returned and rescued Postiga from his English nightmare with Pedro Mendes heading in the opposite direction.

This misguided attempt to conquer England seemed to have a big impact on the front man, and after four seasons back at Porto two loan switched followed. Saint Etienne was first up, quickly followed by a short stint in Greece with Panathinaikos. Sporting Clube de Portugal is where Postiga currently plies his trade, but how different a career this could've been had he been patient while in Portugal and not been so hasty to move on. Such a shame for a man who has an impressive record at international level, scoring 15 goals in 40 games for Portugal.

Future Stars - Coutinho

Brazilian Midfielder Philippe Coutinho, better known by just the latter, is one of the few things Rafael Benitez did right at Inter Milan. Giving the attack minded 19-year-old his Serie A debut in an otherwise unsuccessful stint in charge of the Nerazzurri.

Originally signed my Inter in 2008, red tape meant he was unable to ply his trade at the Italian giants until last year. Up until that point he was loaned back to his native country, where Vasco De Gama took him under their wing for two years.

Now officially in Milan, he has made quite an impression, and is one of many Brazilian players who could be charged with winning the World Cup on home soil. With the Samba nation currently going though something of a transitional period, a new breed, not too dissimilar to England, will be trusted with bringing back pride to a damaged nation after South Africa 2010.

Until that point an already promising club career will surely continue to prosper. Interest is already starting to come from around Europe, such has been his impression in such a short space of time.

Wimbledon looms

With the French Open coming to an end yesterday, we are seeing the build up to our own Grand Slam get underway. The time of year when England goes Tennis crazy, and everyone digs out the rackets to hit the courts.

The 'king of clay' debate will continue to rise, as Spaniard Rafael Nadal grew level with Bjorn Borg's record of six titles on the French clay. That put the 25-year-old on ten slam wins in total, six behind Roger Federer who he yesterday defeated. Now though attentions switched to our fair shores, where it will no doubt be one of these greats who triumphs.

Don't get me wrong I'm not saying that their is a lack of talent in the men's game, just that these two are the standard setters and rise above the rest. Novak Djokovic has been in fine form this season, leading up to his defeat by Federer in France. And these are of course plenty of capable players, and upsets are sure to happen as they usually do. But the Swiss and Spaniard have dominated grand slam successes and I see no reason why it won't continue.

Federer dominated this event between 2003 to 2007, until he traded wins with Nadal in the last three years. He still sits one behind Pete Sampras' record seven triumphs here and he will be as determined as ever to get on equal terms. However a certain Spaniard sits in his way, and with two wins here already he will be looking to close the gap further of slam titles.