Could Ajax Duo be Heading to the Premiership?

The Dutch club is revered worldwide for the undoubted quality that has come through what seems like the revolving door of its academy.

Marco Van Basten, Patrick Kluivert, Frank Rijkaard and the mercurial Johan Cryuff are just some of the household names that we can thank the Dutch club for introducing to the world.

Now it seems two of the new breed could be set for moves away, but could their destination be England and the Premier League?

Long Term

Christian Eriksen has reportedly been a long-term target for many an English club, one particular example being Manchester United, who are again being mooted as a potential destination .

The playmaker turned down a proposal from neighbours Manchester City last summer, but as the Sunday Mirror is reporting, two clubs have already opened talks with his club this year.

One of those is reportedly Russian outfit Zenit St Petersburg, but the 20-year-old has previously spoken of his desire to join either Barcelona or Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

Possessing a speed in spotting openings and quick decision making it is no doubt this creativity that stands out as a primary attribute, but could this ensure he is a success in England should he arrive?

Balancing

Despite having already sold Jan Vertonghen to Tottenham Hotspur, it is thought that Ajax still have to sell to balance the books.

This has led Vernon Anita to continue to be linked away from the reigning Eredivisie champions.

It is Newcastle United who are believed to be leading the race to secure his signature, having been mentioned in the same breath for some time.

Speaking to the Sunday Mirror, Anita's agent Harry Lulofs said: “There is serious interest from Newcastle. A move to the Premier League is so tempting for him. We have to resolve the situation quickly.”

The player himself added: "I’ve two years left on my contract. But I want some clarity from Ajax about my ­future. We are having a meeting with Marc ­Overmars, the club’s new sporting director, to get a clear view of what the club wants.”

Would the man who is equally adept at left-back and defensive midfield be a good addition at the Sports Direct Arena?

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)

Manchester City

The new side on the end of every supporters hatred? Perhaps. Jealousy? Probably. But everyone concerned with this club can't afford to be too bothered with those outside looking in, they need to improve, or at least consolidate, on last seasons achievements. The whole country wants them to fail, but the reality is that they have now turned the Premier League into a three horse race.

Goalkeeper

Joe Hart has well and truly consolidated himself at number one, with Shay Given now sold to Aston Villa to stave off the splinters from that City bench. He is prone to the odd mistake, but nobodies perfect, and fans worldwide will have to get used to him because he surely has over a decade of being not just his club's first choice but England's too. Stuart Taylor provides decent enough back up.

Defence

Despite already being strong in this area, two more bodies have arrived to bolster a stern defence further. Youngster Stefan Savic, coveted by many of the top European sides, is now at Eastlands along side Gael Clichy, who snubbed Liverpool to join Roberto Mancini's men. In reality they could probably field two very strong back fours, so competition for places should ensure that level of performance stays high.

Midfield


Adam Johnson, lauded as one of the new breed for the national side, can't even get into the starting eleven at his club. That shows the level that this side are now competing. James Milner is expected to have a more prominent role this time round, where Nigel De Jong and Yaya Toure continue to endear themselves to the city faithful.

Forwards

New record signing Sergio Aguero has arrived from Atletico Madrid, raised expectations further still. Edin Dzeko, a £27m arrival from Wolfsburg in January, should also have s heavy role this year despite his poor performances so far. Mario Balotelli, an undoubted talent, should also stay even after his 'I don't like Manchester' moan recently. Carlos Tevez is still seeking a way out, as are Roque Santa Cruz, Craig Bellamy and Emmanuel Adebayor who were all left behind when the first team jetted out to the States.

Manager

Roberto Mancini seems to have the confidence of everyone concerned with the club, and has built a side which should compete on all levels. The FA Cup win last year ended the long wait for silverware, whilst also ridding Old Trafford of the banner that has taunted them all these years. A first Champions League outing could be the real test, but with the calibre of player at his disposal it wouldn't be surprising to see them reach the latter stages.

Areas to Strengthen

No where in this side really needs any more strength. They have strength in depth at all levels, however if a truly world class player came up they would no doubt try their hardest to clinch the signature. Especially if that person is Wesley Sneijder and bitter rivals Manchester United also want him.

Expectations

They are no doubt very very high. Consolidation on last years league position will be the minimum that will be expected, while more silverware would be desired. However if a real push for the title is made that will show great progression, and you would think would keep the majority of the fans and board room happy.
Odds

4/1 (Sky Bet)

Players in

Sergio Aguero £36m (Atletico Madrid) Stefan Savic £6m (Partizan) Gael Clichy £7m (Arsenal) Costel Pantilimon undisclosed (Poli Timisoara) Samir Nasri £24m (Arsenal) Owen Hargreaves free

Players out

Felipe Caicedo £1m (Levante) Jerome Boateng £12m (Bayern Munich) Jo Undisclosed (Internacional) Craig Bellamy free (Liverpoool) Shaun Wright-Phillips undisclosed (Queens Park Rangers) Shay Given £3.5m (Aston Villa) Scott Kay free (Macclesfield Town) Shaleun Logan free (Brentford) Andrew Tutte free (Rochdale) Donal McDermott free (Huddersfield Town)  Javier Garrido, James Poole, Javan Vidal, Patrick Vieira, James Wood (all released) Ryan McGivern loan (Crystal Palace) Michael Johnson loan (Leicester City) Kieran Tripper loan (Burnley) Ben Mee loan (Burnley) David Gonzalez loan (Aberdeen) Dedryck Boyata loan (Bolton Wanderers) Roque Santa Cruz loan (Real Betis) John Guidetti loan (Feyenoord) Ryan McGivern loan (Bristol City) Ahmed Benali loan (Rochdale)

Aston Villa

The Villains used to have major hopes of cracking what was the infamous 'big four,' under Martin O'Neill they of course came very close to this. But last season was no doubt one of transition, and with major changes this summer it could be very sticky this time round. Last season turned out a bit sour, but despite a controversial switch across the second city Alex McLeish could turn this sleeping giant round with a few shrewd signings.

Goalkeeper

This team have been blessed in this position for years, with Brad Friedel being once of the most consistent for years. However with the signing of Shay Given from Manchester City they have no doubt got one of the Premier League's finest. With a season of bench warming in Manchester though, it remains to be seen if the Irishman can regain top form once again.

Defence

Always a strong point for the side, and despite a few hiccups it was no different last season. Despite the criticisms Richard Dunne seems to have been revitalised in Birmingham, and has dug his side out of many a tough situation and can bag a few too. Carlos Cuellar could be moving on though, and he will need to be replaced before the season starts.

Midfield

With the losses of Ashley Young and Stewart Downing it is of no doubt that this is an area in need of strengthening. Charles N'Zogbia seems to be the man charged with that, but he cant perform miracles alone, despite how promising his talent is and he will need support. Midfield still seems a bit weak for this side, and expect to see McLeish stepping into the market for more troops in this position.

Forwards

On the outset it seems that Aston Villa are fine in this area, but there is a fine line between promising youngster and Premiership striker. Gabriel Agbonlahor is no doubt very talented, but it seems someone more prolific should be signed to partner Darren Bent up top. He can only bang the goals in so long and at some point will slump, all strikers do, it's at that point someone else need to pick up the mantle. And Villa just don't seem to have that at the moment.

Manager

Last season Aston Villa were rocked days before the start of the season, where O'Neill resigned leaving the side in peril. Gerard Houllier was charged with turned the tides, but more health problems followed and the Premier League dream failed to materialise. McLeish could well work wonders, but despite the Carling Cup win last year hasn't performed miracles in the Premiership. With a few good signings though Villa could well have a good year, Randy Lerner will have to loosen the purse strings though.

Areas to Strengthen

Wingers are more importantly creativity is severly lacking in this side, after the much hyped departures of Young and Downing. N'Zogbia seems a certainty, but it could perhaps be asking a little much for him to do it alone. A bit more firepower wouldn't be the worst thing either.

Expectations

After such high expectations over the last few seasons, Villa fans will no doubt be inflated once again. Realistically though, they should be happy if their side manager a solid top half finish. Something which they could no doubt build on next term.

Odds

400/1 (Sky Bet)

Players In

 Shay Given £3.5m (Manchester City) Charles N'Zogbia £9.5 (Wigan Athletic) Alan Hutton undisclosed (Tottenham Hotspur) Jermaine Jenas loan (Tottenham Hotspur)

Players Out

Ashley Young £15m (Manchester United) Stewart Downing £20m (Liverpool), Brad Friedel free (Tottenham Hotspur) Jonathan Hogg and Andreas Weimann undisclosed (Watford) Luke Young undisclosed (Queens Park Rangers) Nigel Reo-Coker John Carew Moustapha Salifou Robert Pires Isaiah Osbourne Harry Forrester Arsenio Halfhuid Durrell Berry Ellis Deeney Calum Flanagan (all released) Jean Makoun loan (Olympiacos)

Arsenal

The Gunners have huge title aspirations ahead of the new season, but after six seasons without a trophy and persistent rumours of exits is that realistic? One big name has already left, two more and mooted to be following and as yet Arsene Wenger doesn't seem too concerned. The Frenchman who a few years ago seemed invincible is starting to divide opinion, can he silence those critics in the 2011/2012 campaign.

Goalkeeper

It seem like this has forever been the troubled spot for Arsenal, with fans for the last couple of years blaming this as a lack of failure. Jens Lehmann brought back last year, with rotation/injuries seeming all three regular keepers, Manuel Almunia, Wojciech Szczesny and Lukasz Fabianski, all given chances to impress but failing to do so. A reliable man between the sticks is a must have for any side, and despite the stubborn 'I know best' attitude that Wenger seems to have adopted in recent times, unless he rectifies this situation his barren streak will continue.

Defence

 

With Thomas Vermaelen back this term after a lay off last season, what seemed a slightly leeky defence, especially from set pieces, could be slightly patched up. Although that doesn't take away from the fact new additions are needed, and fast. Defenders were already a priority before Gael Clichy headed up north, so now they are needed more than ever. Despite Wengers insistence that his defence held it's own last year, it was clear to see it simply did not. As already mentioned, conceeding too many from set pieces can be a huge problem. Continue the trend this season and trouble will undoubtedly follow.

Midfield

There certainly isn't ever a lack of creativity in the middle of the park at The Emirates, but two of the usual suspects could be off anytime soon. Samir Nasir seems to have been linked to everyone of note, Manchester City more than most, while Cesc Fabregas' on off move back to Barcelona wore thin years ago but could come to a head this summer. Add that to the other 'squad' players rumoured to be going and Arsenal could find themselves a little short. The wise old heads need a good season, and from and England perspective the contunine rise of Jack Wilshire wouldn't be too bad.

Forward

This doesn't seem to be a big problem, with no doubt one of the Leagues finest in Robin Van Persie, if they can keep him fit, gracing their front line. Ivorian Gervinho has also arrived, although he could operate out wide if needed, along with Marouane Chamakh who failed to replicate his early season from and drifted off. The Morrocan international certainly needs to find some form, and goals, this season. Nicklas Bendtner seems out of the door already, but it will be this postion which is bottom of the list for strenghthening.

Manager

It is of no doubt to any of the footballing world the massive impact Wenger has had on the English game, with his brand of football also a joy to behold. But the bottom line is good football only gets you so far, and trophies are what the paying fans, shareholders, owners and players crave. Another barren season and a man who is already starting to have his doubters, could just find himself out of a job.

Areas to Strengthen

Phil Jagielka is the latest of a long list of Defenders that has been linked with a move to Arsenal this summer, with one target in Phil Jones already having signed for rivals Manchester United and the Gary Cahill front going cold. Well for now anyway. But it could be unlikely that there will be a huge influx of activity until the futures of the aforementioned Fabregas and Nasri are sorted out. Defenders are certainly needed, a strong goalkeeper wouldn't hurt and if those two do go some midfielder dynamo's will have to be added.

Expectation

A title bid has become the norm of expectations nowadays, with good showings in both domestic and european competition craved. It could perhaps be a little early to just this side, with a month of the transfer window still left and a long of ins and outs expected. Although even at this early stage it does seem that a title tilt could be out of reach, as could, dare I say it, a place in the top four.

Odds
 
9/1 (Sky Bet)

Players in

Gervinho £10.5m (Lille) Carl Jenkinson £1m (Charlton Athletic)Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain £15m (Southampton) Jon Toral undisclosed (Barcelona) Hector Bellerin undisclosed (Barcelona) Andre Santos £6m (Fenerbache) Joel Campbell undisclosed (deportivo Saprissa) Park Chu-Young undisclosed (Monaco) Per Mertesacker undisclosed (Werder Bremen) Mikel Arteta £10m (Everton) Yossi Benayoun loan (Chelsea)

Players out

Gael Clichy £7m (Manchester City) Jay Emmanuel-Thomas £1.1m (Ipswich Town) Cesc Fabregas undisclosed (Barcelona) Samir Nasir £24m (Manchester City) Emmanuel Eboue undisclosed (Galatasaray) Armand Traore undisclosed (Queens Park Rangers)  Mark Randall free (Chesterfield) Roarie Deacon free (Sunderland) Jamie Edge free (West Bromwich Albion) Gilles Sunu undisclosed (Lorient) Denilson loan (Sao Paulo) Thomas Cruise (released) Wellington loan (Levante) Carlos Vela loan (Real Sociedad) Pedro Botelho loan (Rayo Vallecano) Henri Lansbury loan (West Ham United) Nicklas Bendtner loan (Sunderland) Joel Campbell loan (Lorient)

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.

Spurs: Breath of fresh air in Champions League

Following an attacking goal fest of a group stage, Tottenham Hotspur progressed to the knockout stages of the Champions League full of confidence.

On the horizon came AC Milan, seven time winners of Europe's premier club competition.

Despite being huge underdogs Spurs players, staff and fans never doubted themselves, and returned to London with a terrific 1-0 victory.

It was widely regarded in Italy that Milan would stroll this tie, but now it would be a huge surprise should they not progress.

Harry Redknapp should be praised for refusing to reel in his sides attacking intent, and allowing them to stick to their guns with free flowing football.

Although, at times, their defence has looked suspect on the most part that has taken a back seat due to the quality of their play going forward.

It is no secret that this Spurs side has incredible strength, plus for a side out of the limelight for so long players who have experienced life at the top before.

No fear has clearly been the message of Tottenham in the Champions League this season, and long may it continue.

We have seen all season long Manchester City, Spurs' top four challengers, not exactly set the world alight with attacking football.

Whatever the reason for this, confidence, pressure or indeed the defence nature of an Italian manager, I'm sure most people will agree they are relieved Spurs won the top four race.

As we are set for another thrilling finale in the Premier League, Redknapp and his men have the perfect distraction and pick me up.

However far they get just progressing from the group stage, as winners, shows huge progress in itself.

Anything else now is just a bonus, but whose to say when this story will end.

Milan wrote of Spurs and see where it got them, anyone is Europe do it at your peril.

Manchester City's mistake in demanding Tevez stay!

Over the last few days and weeks more and more has been written about the feud between Carlos Tevez and his manager Roberto Mancini.

From offers and a bumper new contract and a multi million pound one off incentive payment if he signs, money is clearly no issue, as it never has been during Sheikh Mansour's rein at Manchester City.

But the Argentine international is adamant that he is not interested in cash, and that he moving for family reasons, which have always been an issue.

This added to the fact relations with executives have broken beyond repair, executives believed to be Garry Cook and Brian Marwood.

Tevez insists he wanted to leave in the summer, but was dissuaded by former agent and owner Kia Joorabchian.

The blues have made the decision not to sell following meetings with the owner, with the City captain also having three and a half years still to run on his contract.

If he is forced to stay though, the 26-year-old has made it clear he will simply retire.

An outcome that could force City to take action against Joorabchian.

It is no doubt a very complicated situation, but one which could have a very simple outcome.

In modern football it is next to impossible to keep a player who wants to leave, we have seen this numerous times over the last few seasons alone, think Cristiano Ronaldo and Javier Mascherano.
Deep down City no they have to sell after their last ditch attempt at throwing bags of money at the striker failed.

An offer they must have thought no one would ever be able to refuse.

Although this is the first sign of a crack in the Eastlands hierarchy. there are still many top class players who would join the club.

Despite Tevez's importance to the club, losing him wouldn't be the worst possible outcome.

Not with the money they have and a month in which to do business.

Keeping the player would only have consequences behind the scenes, but squad morale would begin to dwindle if players bore witness to the constant feuding on a daily basis.

If Manchester City want success this season, it could be in their best interest to cut their losses and splash out on a new superstar.

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.

National Cups Devalued

As the League Cup gets underway once again this week, it is clear that year on year not just this but now the FA Cup are increasingly getting devalued.

For a number of years now the League Cup has been seen as the competition for the lower sides, with the bigger ones instead deciding to give their younger stars a run out.

And although over recent years we have seen the likes of Manchester United put out a first team in the business end of the tournament, they have still relied on the future stars to get them to that stage.

It was only in the second leg of the Manchester derby semi-final that Sir Alex Ferguson called upon his senior stars.

Now though we are also seeing the FA Cup follow down the very same road, with the FA selling out this great tradition for the Champions League.

It is known that the more respected of our national cups takes place one week before the finale of Europe's premier competition.

However with the Champions League heading to Wembley for this years final, the FA find themselves in hot water with a Fifa ruling.

That ruling is that no play can commence of the pitch where the Champions League will take place for two full weeks before the Showpiece.

That means the FA have no choice but to move the final of the tournament that encapsulates the heart of a nation, to a week earlier on the final day on the regular Premier League season.

Meaning it will become nothing but another fixture, just like the League Cup final has become over the last decade or so.

The days of the old romance of the cup, and England's footballing world coming to a stand still on final day could be coming to an end.

If this is the case it would be such a shame, let's just hope next season the cup recovers and the FAs sell out doesn't have any major impact.

Javier Mascherano and the modern day footballing mercenary!

In the era of no loyalty within our elite level footballers, this attitude is summed up most by non other than Javier Mascherano.

While at Argentinian side River Plate and then Brazilians Corinthians, Mascherano built up quite a reputation not just in South America but around the world.

He was an exciting young talent who chased and hassled the ball carrier tremendously, he was tipped for Europe's best clubs in a matter of years.

However after a shock switch to West Ham United along with compatriot Carlos Tevez he quickly saw he first team opportunities cut short.

After just half a season though and five appearances, Rafael Benitez brought him to Anfield assured he could rebuild his career.

The fans instantly took to the gritty ball winner, and he became a favourite in the terraces.

Now nearing a century of appearances on Merseyside, it seems his time at Liverpool is numbered.

While he should be grateful to Benitez for the 'risk' he made in buying the Argentine, he should be appreciate the club and power brokers who also took the risk and the fans who have took him into their heart.

His refusal to play in the recent defeat to Manchester City is a ludicrous way to act towards the club and fans who are STILL paying his wages despite this refusal.

It is also worth pointing out that Liverpool have turned him into Captain of his country, a situation that seemed highly unlikely during the tumultuous time at West Ham.

Manager Roy Hodgson has stated if no bid matches the clubs valuation, then he could stay.

However the fluttering eye lashed at Barcelona which started last summer are still ongoing, and with Inter Milan now in the race if he does stay it could have a hugely detrimental effect on morale.

Their now seem to be a distinct lack, if any at all, of one club men.

A quick buck among players seems to be the priority and player 'rule' the trend at clubs.

Fergie spot on with 'kamikaze' jibe

Another round of the infamous Alex Ferguson 'mind games' could be in the offing, following the Manchester United managers quotes yesterday.

Without naming a club he has claimed the spending in the Premier League is well over the top, with clubs splashing out on players in kamikaze style.

Fergie believes more clubs should follow his own blue print, bleeding youngsters into the side to develop alongside the more experienced figures.

This summers signings of Chris Smalling, Bebe and the already impressive Javier Hernandez is in stark contrast to their neighbours across the City.

The Eastlands outfit are set to take their spending above the £100m mark when James Milner officially becomes a Manchester City player.

Although the most decorated manger in Premier League history is not alone in thinking they can't instantly buy success.

Real Madrid have famously tried this with the galactico's and won nothing, and had another go at this unsuccessful formula last year with similarly bad consequences.

With Jose Mourinho's installation they have stopped this incessant need to buy big names, with the 'special one' building a solid side.

Their signings of Sami Khedira and Mesut Ozil, two of Germany's most impressive performers in this summer World Cup, for just £24m shows this.

They have established themselves in their national side, and show huge promise for the future.

For a similar fee City are buying a player who has some Premier League pedigree, is in or around his national side and justifies his inflated fee after one brilliant season last term.

Ferguson and the others who have tipped City for another baron year could be just right.

They should spend their money more wisely if they want the success everyone connected with the club craves.

Liverpool's best news for years

Upon hearing the news that Chinese businessman Kenny Huang is interest in buying Liverpool Football Club, it has emerged that there are as many as six offers on the table.

Although it is unknown who the other bidders are apart from Huang, whose bid we are hearing more of on a daily basis.

You don't need me to guide you through the tumultuous period that the club has experienced under Tom Hicks and George Gillet, but hopefully they have now turned a corner.

Huang certainly talks the talk, but then again so did the Americans before they took charge and look what happened there.

It is understood he wants a quick sale in order to give Roy Hodgson funds to spend for the remainder of the transfer window, just the Manchester City two seasons ago.

Although it is hopeful Liverpool will have more than one day to play with, unlike their counterparts from the blue side of Manchester.

In addition to providing funds Huang wants to wipe out the clubs enormous debt to the Royal Bank of Scotland, as well as resurrecting the new stadium project in Stanley Park.

With the news that Fernando Torres is more or less staying at the club, it yet be one of the most memorable transfer windows in the clubs history.

A statement has issued a deadline of the end of next week to elect a new buyer, lets just hope the right decision is made this time around.

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.

Brazilians showing their class!

As we prepare for the quarter finals of the World Cup to kick-off, only one thing has been certain in the duration of the tournament so far.

That is that Brazil have to be the over whelming favourites to take the title.

No one has come close to matching them so far, not even Portugal as you might argue.

Even though they drew 0-0, it was simply to cement both sides places in the round of 16.

Julio Cesar looks solid if not a world class as goalkeeper, while their defence is also looking more stable.

A place where Brazil have traditionally suffered is now a strong point, watch out the rest of the World Cup.

Who ever the play as holding midfielder aren't just one dimensional.

As well as breaking up play, they can also set up attacks whether that be with storming runs or defence splitting passes.

Then, finally, we come to the free flowing attackers that everyone loves the samba superstars for.

Their strength in attack, with Fabiano, Kaka, Robinho etc, is just too much to handle.

Even Elano, an outcast at Manchester City, seems to be loving life at the World Cup with Brazil.

While Holland will be a test today, no one can stand in the way of Brazil on their quest for a sixth World Cup triumph.

Wins breed confidence, so this side must be simply unstoppable.