The Premier League is one which rewards strong sides. Sides which contain the fewest weak links within their starting XI. One player does not make a team, and reliance on the scoring of one player or a couple of players can ultimately lead to failure.
Here are three players from different teams who are, more often than not, depended upon more than anyone else in their side.
Tim Cahill – Everton
There’s no doubting Tim Cahill’s ability. He is a world class midfielder, certainly one of the best footballers at heading the ball, and is at the heart of the majority of Everton’s attacking play – as well-rewarded fantasy football managers will soon tell you. The problem is with Everton is that they lack an out and out striker. Despite the Toffees fielding a 4-5-1 formation, it seems impossible to predict who will be the lone forward in their attack out of Louis Saha, Ayegbeni Yakubu or Jermaine Beckford – who have mustered up a measly three league goals between them this season. Tim Cahill has scored nine out of Everton’s twenty goals to date. While this demonstrates his attacking threat and eye for goal, his side will struggle to fulfil their potential and break into the top six this season unless their strikers find some consistency, or manager David Moyes is given the opportunity to delve into the transfer market in 2011.
Andy Carroll – Newcastle
With eleven goals so far this season, Andy Carroll is currently the third top goal scorer in the Premier League – amongst names such as Dimitar Berbatov and Carlos Tevez, and more than Chelsea’s Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka combined. In Newcastle’s first home game of the season, Carroll netted a hat-trick in a 6-0 win over Aston Villa, throwing down his own gauntlet for the rest of the campaign. In fact, fourteen of Newcastle’s 22 points have come when Carroll scores. But such expectation of a 21 year old, brand new to the Premier League, must come as a lot of pressure to the striker - who picked up his first England cap earlier this year. This is not to undermine Carroll’s ability; he has proven himself as a huge threat in front of goal; but the fact that Chris Hughton was sacked earlier this month seems to be a clear indication that chairman Mike Ashley is expecting more than just survival - or even a mid-table finish (Newcastle were eleventh when Hughton lost his job) – for the Magpies this year. Should Carroll happen to miss a string of games through suspension or injury, Newcastle could struggle somewhat due to their inconsistent home and away record this season.
Carlos Tevez – Manchester City
This might sound a bit of an odd one, but before (and probably still now) the drama surrounding Tevez’s future in English football and a possible rift between himself and manager Roberto Mancini, Manchester City fans would have told you that the Argentine international provided the real cutting edge to their side’s attacking play. Tevez has scored twelve goals, all of which have come in seven of City’s eleven league wins. Although Manchester City enter into 2011 joint top of the Premier League, they have scored the least goals out of the top four sides. Although Mario Balotelli is beginning to find his feet, no other player apart from he and Tevez has scored more than twice in the Premier League for Man City this season. The argument could therefore be made that the Blues can score goals from anywhere on the pitch – which might be expected with an abundance of quality players within the squad – but Mancini is right to be looking at bringing in another striker in January (namely Wolfsburg’s Edin Dezko, if reports are correct) – to provide another goal scorer and continue Manchester City’s title ambitions – especially as goal difference could prove to be vital in May next year.
Wednesday 29 December 2010
Sunday 26 December 2010
Leicester City 2 - 2 Leeds United - 26th December 2010
Leicester City came from two goals down to rescue a point against high-flying Leeds United this afternoon at the Walkers Stadium.
Former Leicester man Max Gradel put the visitors ahead in the first half, while Robert Snodgrass doubled Leeds’ lead ten minutes after the break with an angled strike.
Paul Gallagher pulled a goal back from the penalty spot to give the Foxes hope after Leeds keeper Kasper Schmeichel brought down Darius Vassell, and Andy King’s thunderbolt from 25 yards ensured Sven-Goran Eriksson’s unbeaten home record in the league remained intact.
The result meant that Leeds slipped to third in the Championship after Cardiff’s 2-0 win over Coventry City, while Leicester remain in the bottom half of the table despite sitting just five points outside the playoffs.
The home side had the first chance of the match when Steve Howard’s snap shot from twenty yards out curled just past the Leeds goal.
But it was the away side who took the lead after nineteen minutes when Max Gradel capitalised on some sluggish Leicester defending – not helped by Kyle Naughton slipping in the penalty area at an unfortunate moment – to head the ball past Chris Kirkland from six yards out.
The first half contained few clear cut opportunities, although Leicester showed some promise on the half hour mark when Andy King’s clever cross was batted away by goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, followed by a tight angled shot into the side netting by full back Greg Cunningham after a smart run into the penalty area.
Despite a deflected shot on target by Yuki Abe five minutes after the break, Leeds came out the stronger side in the second half and were soon rewarded for their superiority when Robert Snodgrass’s corner was headed back out to him, only for the Scotsman to blast the ball past Chris Kirkland from a tight angle and send the 3,000 plus visiting fans into delirium.
Gradel could have made it 3-0 moments later after cutting in behind the Leicester defence, but he could only find the side netting from an acute angle.
Leicester were handed a lifeline with just under twenty minutes remaining when Darius Vassell found himself one-on-one with Kasper Schmeichel, only for the former England international to be brought down in the penalty area.
Referee Tony Bates awarded the spot kick, and although there appeared to be little contact between the two during the incident, Schmeichel might consider himself fortunate to only receive a caution for the foul as Vassell appeared to be in on goal.
Paul Gallagher stepped up to blast the penalty down the middle of the goal for his fourth goal in as many games, and to give Leicester an opportunity to rescue something from the match.
The Foxes found themselves level just five minutes later when Andy King picked the ball up 25 yards out from goal and hit a wonderful strike past Schmeichel, which hit the underside of the bar on his way in.
It was the Welsh international’s ninth goal of the season, and was a clear exhibition of how dangerous Leicester can be when playing their best football.
From that point it seemed as if either side could go on to win the game, with Leicester looking sharp on the break and Leeds continuing to look dangerous in attack despite being rocked somewhat by the home side’s comeback.
With time running out, Chris Kirkland pulled off a magnificent save with both sides scrambling for the ball in the Leicester penalty area, and Darius Vassell was unfairly brought down by Paul Connolly after using his blistering pace to break through the Leeds midfield.
There was one last moment of controversy when substitute Roman Bednar appeared to be pulled down in the penalty area – but the official did not award Leicester a second penalty.
In the last minute of injury time, Neil Collins squandered a final chance for Leeds when his header from a corner went harmlessly wide.
The final whistle extended Leicester’s unbeaten home record in the Championship to eight games, while Simon Grayson’s men stayed firmly in the race for automatic promotion.
Man of the Match – Jack Hobbs
Former Leicester man Max Gradel put the visitors ahead in the first half, while Robert Snodgrass doubled Leeds’ lead ten minutes after the break with an angled strike.
Paul Gallagher pulled a goal back from the penalty spot to give the Foxes hope after Leeds keeper Kasper Schmeichel brought down Darius Vassell, and Andy King’s thunderbolt from 25 yards ensured Sven-Goran Eriksson’s unbeaten home record in the league remained intact.
The result meant that Leeds slipped to third in the Championship after Cardiff’s 2-0 win over Coventry City, while Leicester remain in the bottom half of the table despite sitting just five points outside the playoffs.
The home side had the first chance of the match when Steve Howard’s snap shot from twenty yards out curled just past the Leeds goal.
But it was the away side who took the lead after nineteen minutes when Max Gradel capitalised on some sluggish Leicester defending – not helped by Kyle Naughton slipping in the penalty area at an unfortunate moment – to head the ball past Chris Kirkland from six yards out.
The first half contained few clear cut opportunities, although Leicester showed some promise on the half hour mark when Andy King’s clever cross was batted away by goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, followed by a tight angled shot into the side netting by full back Greg Cunningham after a smart run into the penalty area.
Despite a deflected shot on target by Yuki Abe five minutes after the break, Leeds came out the stronger side in the second half and were soon rewarded for their superiority when Robert Snodgrass’s corner was headed back out to him, only for the Scotsman to blast the ball past Chris Kirkland from a tight angle and send the 3,000 plus visiting fans into delirium.
Gradel could have made it 3-0 moments later after cutting in behind the Leicester defence, but he could only find the side netting from an acute angle.
Leicester were handed a lifeline with just under twenty minutes remaining when Darius Vassell found himself one-on-one with Kasper Schmeichel, only for the former England international to be brought down in the penalty area.
Referee Tony Bates awarded the spot kick, and although there appeared to be little contact between the two during the incident, Schmeichel might consider himself fortunate to only receive a caution for the foul as Vassell appeared to be in on goal.
Paul Gallagher stepped up to blast the penalty down the middle of the goal for his fourth goal in as many games, and to give Leicester an opportunity to rescue something from the match.
The Foxes found themselves level just five minutes later when Andy King picked the ball up 25 yards out from goal and hit a wonderful strike past Schmeichel, which hit the underside of the bar on his way in.
It was the Welsh international’s ninth goal of the season, and was a clear exhibition of how dangerous Leicester can be when playing their best football.
From that point it seemed as if either side could go on to win the game, with Leicester looking sharp on the break and Leeds continuing to look dangerous in attack despite being rocked somewhat by the home side’s comeback.
With time running out, Chris Kirkland pulled off a magnificent save with both sides scrambling for the ball in the Leicester penalty area, and Darius Vassell was unfairly brought down by Paul Connolly after using his blistering pace to break through the Leeds midfield.
There was one last moment of controversy when substitute Roman Bednar appeared to be pulled down in the penalty area – but the official did not award Leicester a second penalty.
In the last minute of injury time, Neil Collins squandered a final chance for Leeds when his header from a corner went harmlessly wide.
The final whistle extended Leicester’s unbeaten home record in the Championship to eight games, while Simon Grayson’s men stayed firmly in the race for automatic promotion.
Man of the Match – Jack Hobbs
Saturday 18 December 2010
Under the Radar: how Sven-Göran Eriksson is quietly making things happen at Leicester City
When Sven-Göran Eriksson took the job as Leicester City manager, there were a lot of sceptics. Some thought he didn’t have the right background and discipline to manage a team at Championship level. Others questioned his past affairs in the media and whether it would impact on his professionalism. And many thought that former chairman Milan Mandaric had been far too trigger-happy with Paulo Sousa, who was dismissed after a string of dismal results and poor performances in September 2010.
But since the former England boss took charge, the Foxes have climbed ten places in the league. Eriksson has brought in a blend of youth and experience from the Premier League, and key players are returning to – and excelling – their form from last season.
The winning mentality is back.
Change doesn’t happen overnight, however. A new manager will not win every single game. The Championship is a highly competitive league, and this season has proven that any team can beat any other team. But the season ends in May; not in December. The phrase “it's a marathon, not a sprint” is one to bear in mind. Leicester fans are right to have high expectations, but should also not be concerned that their team are still in the bottom half of the table. Since Eriksson took charge, Leicester have taken 23 points from twelve league games, winning seven of those in the process - the most games won by any side in the Championship during that period. The Foxes have scored 21 leagues goals in that time (bettered only by Leeds United).
To put it simply, here is the difference between the two Leicester managers this season:
Paulo Sousa
Games played: 9
Games won: 1
Goals scored: 10
Goal difference: - 12
Points: 5
League position: 24th
Sven-Göran Eriksson
Games played: 12
Games won: 7
Goals scored: 21
Goal difference: + 8
Points: 23
League position: 14th
Leicester are the form team in the Championship over the last twelve games. They are also averaging 1.92 points in that time. That works out as 88 points over the entire season. In four of the last six seasons, 88 points is good enough for second place in this division.
However, there is still room for improvement. Leicester’s away form – whilst not terrible under Eriksson – has burdened them somewhat over the course of the season. Seven points from a possible 30 is not encouraging, although six of those points have come from games since Eriksson became manager. The next three away games are against Ipswich, Millwall and Hull – three sides struggling for consistency recently. There is no better time for Leicester to be playing these fixtures.
But it isn’t simply about statistics. The players brought to this club have all fitted the bill, too. Full-backs Kyle Naughton and Greg Cunningham give the team an added dimension in attacking play with their speed and vision. Curtis Davies has been a rock in defence. Darius Vassell has proven that his 30-year old legs still have pace to burn and can break the offside trap with ease, and that the former England international still has an eye for goal. These are all players who have at some point played in the Premier League, and it is obvious to see that. Not to mention the fact that Eriksson has the option to be busy in the January transfer window.
The best thing, however, is that Eriksson is doing all this relatively quietly. He knows the season doesn’t end tomorrow. He also knows what this side is capable of when they play their best football. Anyone who witnessed the second-half demolition of Doncaster Rovers last weekend would argue that it was some of the finest football seen at the Walkers Stadium in many years. No side in this league can contain Leicester City when they play like that.
The fans fully support the manager, as do the new owners – who have publicly stated that there will be money available in January for Eriksson to strengthen the side. A strong December is therefore essential. More importantly, it’s extremely achievable. This team is stronger than it was under Nigel Pearson last season – and when things come together, it really is exciting to watch.
Don’t be surprised if Sven-Göran Eriksson and Leicester City are making a realistic push for automatic promotion (there, I said it) in April 2011.
This team is going places.
But since the former England boss took charge, the Foxes have climbed ten places in the league. Eriksson has brought in a blend of youth and experience from the Premier League, and key players are returning to – and excelling – their form from last season.
The winning mentality is back.
Change doesn’t happen overnight, however. A new manager will not win every single game. The Championship is a highly competitive league, and this season has proven that any team can beat any other team. But the season ends in May; not in December. The phrase “it's a marathon, not a sprint” is one to bear in mind. Leicester fans are right to have high expectations, but should also not be concerned that their team are still in the bottom half of the table. Since Eriksson took charge, Leicester have taken 23 points from twelve league games, winning seven of those in the process - the most games won by any side in the Championship during that period. The Foxes have scored 21 leagues goals in that time (bettered only by Leeds United).
To put it simply, here is the difference between the two Leicester managers this season:
Paulo Sousa
Games played: 9
Games won: 1
Goals scored: 10
Goal difference: - 12
Points: 5
League position: 24th
Sven-Göran Eriksson
Games played: 12
Games won: 7
Goals scored: 21
Goal difference: + 8
Points: 23
League position: 14th
Leicester are the form team in the Championship over the last twelve games. They are also averaging 1.92 points in that time. That works out as 88 points over the entire season. In four of the last six seasons, 88 points is good enough for second place in this division.
However, there is still room for improvement. Leicester’s away form – whilst not terrible under Eriksson – has burdened them somewhat over the course of the season. Seven points from a possible 30 is not encouraging, although six of those points have come from games since Eriksson became manager. The next three away games are against Ipswich, Millwall and Hull – three sides struggling for consistency recently. There is no better time for Leicester to be playing these fixtures.
But it isn’t simply about statistics. The players brought to this club have all fitted the bill, too. Full-backs Kyle Naughton and Greg Cunningham give the team an added dimension in attacking play with their speed and vision. Curtis Davies has been a rock in defence. Darius Vassell has proven that his 30-year old legs still have pace to burn and can break the offside trap with ease, and that the former England international still has an eye for goal. These are all players who have at some point played in the Premier League, and it is obvious to see that. Not to mention the fact that Eriksson has the option to be busy in the January transfer window.
The best thing, however, is that Eriksson is doing all this relatively quietly. He knows the season doesn’t end tomorrow. He also knows what this side is capable of when they play their best football. Anyone who witnessed the second-half demolition of Doncaster Rovers last weekend would argue that it was some of the finest football seen at the Walkers Stadium in many years. No side in this league can contain Leicester City when they play like that.
The fans fully support the manager, as do the new owners – who have publicly stated that there will be money available in January for Eriksson to strengthen the side. A strong December is therefore essential. More importantly, it’s extremely achievable. This team is stronger than it was under Nigel Pearson last season – and when things come together, it really is exciting to watch.
Don’t be surprised if Sven-Göran Eriksson and Leicester City are making a realistic push for automatic promotion (there, I said it) in April 2011.
This team is going places.
Saturday 11 December 2010
Leicester City 5 - 1 Doncaster Rovers - 11th December 2010
Leicester City scored four second half goals to demolish Doncaster Rovers 5-1 at the Walkers Stadium this afternoon.
The visitors went ahead after six minutes through Billy Sharp, but Leicester drew level when Paul Gallagher converted from the spot in first half stoppage time.
Richie Wellens and Kyle Naughton netted for the Foxes before Darius Vassell scored his first goal for the club with fifteen minutes to go.
Martyn Waghorn added to the score sheet in injury time to cap off a dominating second half performance and extend Sven-Goran Eriksson’s unbeaten home record in the Championship to seven games.
It was certainly a game of two halves as Doncaster were much the better side in the early exchanges, with James Hayter firing over after Leicester’s defence was caught on the back foot.
The visitors soon made amends, however, when the Foxes’ backline was again breached by some positive play, resulting in Billy Sharp acrobatically volleying the ball into the top corner.
Leicester struggled to get into the game in the opening fifteen minutes, with Richie Wellens coming closest for the home side with a shot from eighteen yards which sailed over the crossbar.
The Foxes began to look much livelier halfway through the first period as Darius Vassell burst through the heart of the Doncaster midfield, after good work from Yuki Abe, but the former England man’s shot was fortunately deflected wide – and from the ensuing corner, Andy King rattled the crossbar with a header from close range.
Moments later, Paul Gallagher broke into open space with a storming run, but his shot was easily saved by Neil Sullivan.
Despite Leicester’s mounting pressure on the Doncaster goal, the visitors had a great chance to double their lead after an uncharacteristically bad header back to goal from Curtis Davies was latched onto by David Healy who took the ball around goalkeeper Chris Weale, but could not hit the target from a tight angle.
The game changed when substitute Lloyd Dyer entered the fray after 36 minutes – Roman Bednar having picked up an injury as a result of a heavy challenge – and was soon was at the heart of the action when he was brought down by Neil Sullivan in the Doncaster penalty area, two minutes into first half injury time.
Paul Gallagher stepped up to fire the ball past Sullivan – his third goal in two games - and bring the Foxes level just before the half time.
Leicester came out all guns blazing after the break, with Curtis Davies coming extremely close with a header just wide from a corner kick.
Loanee Greg Cunningham then hit the crossbar with a rasping free kick from 25 yards out after Darius Vassell, who had replaced Roman Bednar up front, was clumsily brought down by last man Wayne Thomas.
The game turned on its head with Vassell up front as Leicester were able to pass the ball around much more openly in midfield, and work off Vassell’s blistering pace to create more attacking opportunities with continuous support from Lloyd Dyer, Kyle Naughton and Andy King.
It was all one way traffic as Leicester continued to mount the pressure in the hunt for a second goal, and Andy King almost put the Foxes ahead with a superb low drive from distance, but Neil Sullivan was equal to the challenge, parrying the ball out for a corner.
But Leicester were ahead moments later when former Doncaster man Richie Wellens found some space in the middle of the park and unleashed a powerful low strike into the bottom left hand corner of the goal, putting his home side 2-1 ahead and epitomising the home side’s supremacy shown the second half.
Leicester, reluctant to sit on their one goal advantage, maintained their attacking nature with Andy King forcing Neil Sullivan into another save, and firing just wide moments later.
Meanwhile, at the other end, Chris Weale had to be alert to tip David Healy’s looping shot around the post to preserve Leicester’s lead.
Leicester then doubled their lead with twenty minutes remaining after a superb team counter attack was capped off by full-back Kyle Naughton, who latched onto Richie Wellens’ pinpoint pass and fired across goal into the bottom corner to put the Foxes 3-1 to the good.
The hosts were oozing with confidence by this stage, and soon added a fourth to the tally when Lloyd Dyer played the ball behind the Doncaster back line for Darius Vassell who prodded the ball under Neil Sullivan for a deserved goal – his first in the Leicester blue and white.
Martyn Waghorn replaced Vassell – who received a standing ovation from the Leicester fans - with five minutes remaining and had a glorious opportunity to score when he found himself clean through on goal, however his first touch let him down and the ball ran away from him.
The former Sunderland man did add to his season tally in injury time, however, when Andy King broke clear and hit the inside of the post, giving Waghorn the simplest of tasks to put the ball into an empty net and cap off an emphatic 5-1 win.
Another home victory boosted the Foxes to thirteenth in the league – leapfrogging Doncaster in the process – and left Sven’s men just five points outside the playoff places at this stage in the season.
Man of the Match – Darius Vassell
The visitors went ahead after six minutes through Billy Sharp, but Leicester drew level when Paul Gallagher converted from the spot in first half stoppage time.
Richie Wellens and Kyle Naughton netted for the Foxes before Darius Vassell scored his first goal for the club with fifteen minutes to go.
Martyn Waghorn added to the score sheet in injury time to cap off a dominating second half performance and extend Sven-Goran Eriksson’s unbeaten home record in the Championship to seven games.
It was certainly a game of two halves as Doncaster were much the better side in the early exchanges, with James Hayter firing over after Leicester’s defence was caught on the back foot.
The visitors soon made amends, however, when the Foxes’ backline was again breached by some positive play, resulting in Billy Sharp acrobatically volleying the ball into the top corner.
Leicester struggled to get into the game in the opening fifteen minutes, with Richie Wellens coming closest for the home side with a shot from eighteen yards which sailed over the crossbar.
The Foxes began to look much livelier halfway through the first period as Darius Vassell burst through the heart of the Doncaster midfield, after good work from Yuki Abe, but the former England man’s shot was fortunately deflected wide – and from the ensuing corner, Andy King rattled the crossbar with a header from close range.
Moments later, Paul Gallagher broke into open space with a storming run, but his shot was easily saved by Neil Sullivan.
Despite Leicester’s mounting pressure on the Doncaster goal, the visitors had a great chance to double their lead after an uncharacteristically bad header back to goal from Curtis Davies was latched onto by David Healy who took the ball around goalkeeper Chris Weale, but could not hit the target from a tight angle.
The game changed when substitute Lloyd Dyer entered the fray after 36 minutes – Roman Bednar having picked up an injury as a result of a heavy challenge – and was soon was at the heart of the action when he was brought down by Neil Sullivan in the Doncaster penalty area, two minutes into first half injury time.
Paul Gallagher stepped up to fire the ball past Sullivan – his third goal in two games - and bring the Foxes level just before the half time.
Leicester came out all guns blazing after the break, with Curtis Davies coming extremely close with a header just wide from a corner kick.
Loanee Greg Cunningham then hit the crossbar with a rasping free kick from 25 yards out after Darius Vassell, who had replaced Roman Bednar up front, was clumsily brought down by last man Wayne Thomas.
The game turned on its head with Vassell up front as Leicester were able to pass the ball around much more openly in midfield, and work off Vassell’s blistering pace to create more attacking opportunities with continuous support from Lloyd Dyer, Kyle Naughton and Andy King.
It was all one way traffic as Leicester continued to mount the pressure in the hunt for a second goal, and Andy King almost put the Foxes ahead with a superb low drive from distance, but Neil Sullivan was equal to the challenge, parrying the ball out for a corner.
But Leicester were ahead moments later when former Doncaster man Richie Wellens found some space in the middle of the park and unleashed a powerful low strike into the bottom left hand corner of the goal, putting his home side 2-1 ahead and epitomising the home side’s supremacy shown the second half.
Leicester, reluctant to sit on their one goal advantage, maintained their attacking nature with Andy King forcing Neil Sullivan into another save, and firing just wide moments later.
Meanwhile, at the other end, Chris Weale had to be alert to tip David Healy’s looping shot around the post to preserve Leicester’s lead.
Leicester then doubled their lead with twenty minutes remaining after a superb team counter attack was capped off by full-back Kyle Naughton, who latched onto Richie Wellens’ pinpoint pass and fired across goal into the bottom corner to put the Foxes 3-1 to the good.
The hosts were oozing with confidence by this stage, and soon added a fourth to the tally when Lloyd Dyer played the ball behind the Doncaster back line for Darius Vassell who prodded the ball under Neil Sullivan for a deserved goal – his first in the Leicester blue and white.
Martyn Waghorn replaced Vassell – who received a standing ovation from the Leicester fans - with five minutes remaining and had a glorious opportunity to score when he found himself clean through on goal, however his first touch let him down and the ball ran away from him.
The former Sunderland man did add to his season tally in injury time, however, when Andy King broke clear and hit the inside of the post, giving Waghorn the simplest of tasks to put the ball into an empty net and cap off an emphatic 5-1 win.
Another home victory boosted the Foxes to thirteenth in the league – leapfrogging Doncaster in the process – and left Sven’s men just five points outside the playoff places at this stage in the season.
Man of the Match – Darius Vassell
Saturday 13 November 2010
Leicester City 2 - 0 Derby County - 13th November 2010
Leicester City continued to climb the Championship table following a well-deserved 2-0 win this afternoon over East Midlands rivals Derby County at the Walkers Stadium.
Andy King opened the scoring in the first half after Darius Vassell’s earlier finish was adjudged to have been offside.
Former Derby County favourite Steve Howard doubled Leicester’s lead with twenty minutes remaining with a spot kick after Kyle Naughton was brought down in the penalty area.
Victory for the Foxes meant that they rose to fifteenth in the league, halting high-flying Derby’s three-game winning streak in the process.
Leicester were almost ahead in the opening few minutes when Darius Vassell latched on to a long ball from Jack Hobbs, before firing past the onrushing Derby goalkeeper Frank Fielding – however, the former England international was adjudged to have been offside and thus the goal was disallowed.
The Foxes continued to capitalise on a strong start, and were ahead shortly afterwards when Richie Wellens split the Rams’ defence with a pinpoint ball through to fellow midfielder Andy King, who coolly slotted past Fielding for his seventh goal of the season.
Derby rarely threatened in the opening quarter of the match, with Kris Commons’ shot straight at Leicester goalkeeper Chris Weale being the visitors’ first chance on goal.
Shortly afterwards, Paul Gallagher and on-loan Greg Cunningham linked up nicely on the left hand side with Cunningham delivering a good cross in towards Andy King, but the Welshman failed to trouble Fielding with his effort.
Leicester continued to press for a second goal and came close just before the half hour mark when Paul Gallagher’s mazy run was capped off with a fine shot from 25 yards; however, the Scotsman’s effort sailed just over the crossbar.
It was Derby who finished the last ten minutes of the half as the stronger side, with Commons firing just wide of the post from 25 yards, and Luke Moore blasting over from close range after the City defence was caught on the back foot.
Tomasz Cywka came close for the visitors five minutes before half-time after a good run into the penalty area, but the former Polish under-21 international miscued his shot and the ball sailed harmlessly past Chris Weale’s near post.
Derby manager Nigel Clough must have been pleased with his side’s display at the end of the first half, but it was the Foxes who came back biting after the break through Steve Howard - looking determined to score against his former club - heading over from Darius Vassell’s cross just two minutes into the second period.
The away side should have been on level terms just after the hour mark when Kris Commons had a free header in the Foxes’ penalty area; but the former Nottingham Forest man failed to hit the target from twelve yards when he should have at least tested Chris Weale.
The introduction of substitute Lloyd Dyer gave the home side a much-needed energy boost, with the winger coming close with a curling shot parried away by Fielding after a fine run into the Derby penalty area.
Dyer continued to threaten, this time after meeting a Paul Gallagher cross in the box, but was unable to direct his effort on target after good pressure from the Rams’ defence.
Leicester’s attacking prowess eventually paid off when Kyle Naughton was clumsily brought down the penalty area by Kris Commons, with referee Steve Tanner having no hesitation in awarding the spot kick.
Steve Howard stepped up to fire the ball past Fielding for his fifth goal of the season - his second penalty in as many games – and crucially, to give Leicester a much more comfortable 2-0 lead.
As the Derby heads dropped, Leicester continued to press in search of a third goal, with the tireless Paul Gallagher terrorising the Derby backline with pinpoint crossing and excellent technical ability.
As the minutes wound down, Gallagher almost added insult to injury when his low shot took a wicked deflection and almost found its way into the bottom corner – however, Fielding managed to scramble across to his near post just in time.
The final whistle indicated another impressive win for Leicester under Sven-Goran Eriksson, a third clean sheet in four league games, and gave the Foxes bragging rights over a strong Derby County side.
Man of the Match – Richie Wellens
Andy King opened the scoring in the first half after Darius Vassell’s earlier finish was adjudged to have been offside.
Former Derby County favourite Steve Howard doubled Leicester’s lead with twenty minutes remaining with a spot kick after Kyle Naughton was brought down in the penalty area.
Victory for the Foxes meant that they rose to fifteenth in the league, halting high-flying Derby’s three-game winning streak in the process.
Leicester were almost ahead in the opening few minutes when Darius Vassell latched on to a long ball from Jack Hobbs, before firing past the onrushing Derby goalkeeper Frank Fielding – however, the former England international was adjudged to have been offside and thus the goal was disallowed.
The Foxes continued to capitalise on a strong start, and were ahead shortly afterwards when Richie Wellens split the Rams’ defence with a pinpoint ball through to fellow midfielder Andy King, who coolly slotted past Fielding for his seventh goal of the season.
Derby rarely threatened in the opening quarter of the match, with Kris Commons’ shot straight at Leicester goalkeeper Chris Weale being the visitors’ first chance on goal.
Shortly afterwards, Paul Gallagher and on-loan Greg Cunningham linked up nicely on the left hand side with Cunningham delivering a good cross in towards Andy King, but the Welshman failed to trouble Fielding with his effort.
Leicester continued to press for a second goal and came close just before the half hour mark when Paul Gallagher’s mazy run was capped off with a fine shot from 25 yards; however, the Scotsman’s effort sailed just over the crossbar.
It was Derby who finished the last ten minutes of the half as the stronger side, with Commons firing just wide of the post from 25 yards, and Luke Moore blasting over from close range after the City defence was caught on the back foot.
Tomasz Cywka came close for the visitors five minutes before half-time after a good run into the penalty area, but the former Polish under-21 international miscued his shot and the ball sailed harmlessly past Chris Weale’s near post.
Derby manager Nigel Clough must have been pleased with his side’s display at the end of the first half, but it was the Foxes who came back biting after the break through Steve Howard - looking determined to score against his former club - heading over from Darius Vassell’s cross just two minutes into the second period.
The away side should have been on level terms just after the hour mark when Kris Commons had a free header in the Foxes’ penalty area; but the former Nottingham Forest man failed to hit the target from twelve yards when he should have at least tested Chris Weale.
The introduction of substitute Lloyd Dyer gave the home side a much-needed energy boost, with the winger coming close with a curling shot parried away by Fielding after a fine run into the Derby penalty area.
Dyer continued to threaten, this time after meeting a Paul Gallagher cross in the box, but was unable to direct his effort on target after good pressure from the Rams’ defence.
Leicester’s attacking prowess eventually paid off when Kyle Naughton was clumsily brought down the penalty area by Kris Commons, with referee Steve Tanner having no hesitation in awarding the spot kick.
Steve Howard stepped up to fire the ball past Fielding for his fifth goal of the season - his second penalty in as many games – and crucially, to give Leicester a much more comfortable 2-0 lead.
As the Derby heads dropped, Leicester continued to press in search of a third goal, with the tireless Paul Gallagher terrorising the Derby backline with pinpoint crossing and excellent technical ability.
As the minutes wound down, Gallagher almost added insult to injury when his low shot took a wicked deflection and almost found its way into the bottom corner – however, Fielding managed to scramble across to his near post just in time.
The final whistle indicated another impressive win for Leicester under Sven-Goran Eriksson, a third clean sheet in four league games, and gave the Foxes bragging rights over a strong Derby County side.
Man of the Match – Richie Wellens
Thursday 11 November 2010
Leicester City 2 - 2 Sheffield United - 10th November 2010
Steve Howard scored a penalty in injury time to salvage a point for Leicester City against Sheffield United last night at the Walkers Stadium.
The hosts had initially gone ahead through Paul Gallagher’s superb free kick from 20 yards, but Mark Yeates netted twice for the Blades before half-time to give the visitors a slender lead.
However, Yeates was involved in Leicester’s equaliser when he was adjudged to have handled the ball in the penalty area, allowing Steve Howard to bring the Foxes back on level terms in the second minute of stoppage time.
The result meant that Leicester’s unbeaten run at the Walkers Stadium now stretches back to September 18th, but City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson will be happy to take a point knowing his side lacked the cutting edge demonstrated against Barnsley last weekend.
Leicester were rewarded for yet another bright start when Paul Gallagher’s curling free kick flew into the top corner after Martyn Waghorn was brought down on the edge of the area.
The home side were then dominant for the next twenty minutes, but created few clear cut chances other than Andy King heading wide of Steve Simonsen in the Sheffield United goal.
Shortly afterwards, the Foxes were punished for their inability to turn possession into goals when, just before the half hour mark, Sheffield United caught Leicester on the counter attack through Andy Reid, who was able to find Mark Yeates in plenty of time and space to curl the ball past the helpless Chris Weale.
And with five minutes before half-time, Yeates put the visitors ahead with a stunning free kick after he was brought down by Curtis Davies outside the box.
The second half saw Steve Howard and Lloyd Dyer replace Martyn Waghorn and home debutant Darius Vassell; however, chances were few and far between for the home side, who looked somewhat deflated.
Paul Gallagher came close with another free kick, but Steve Simonsen was equal to it, just managing to tip the ball round the post for a corner.
With ten minutes remaining, Lloyd Dyer made a mazy run into the penalty area resulting in the ball falling at the feet of Steve Howard, whose shot from eighteen yards through a crowd of players was easily saved by Simonsen.
The defining point of the match came at the death when hero-turned-villain Mark Yeates handled the ball in the Blades’ penalty area in the second minute of stoppage time.
Steve Howard stepped up to blast the ball into the bottom corner from twelve yards for his fourth goal of the season, much to the jubilation – and relief – of the home fans.
In the final few seconds of the match, Kyle Naughton lashed the ball across the face of the goal with substitute Matty Fryatt in the penalty area, but was unable to pick him out.
The points were shared on the night, but Sheffield United manager Gary Speed will be frustrated to have not held on to win the game.
Meanwhile, Sven-Goran Eriksson knows his team must be more clinical in this weekend’s huge match at home to Derby County to earn bragging rights in the East Midlands.
Man of the Match – Mark Yeates
The hosts had initially gone ahead through Paul Gallagher’s superb free kick from 20 yards, but Mark Yeates netted twice for the Blades before half-time to give the visitors a slender lead.
However, Yeates was involved in Leicester’s equaliser when he was adjudged to have handled the ball in the penalty area, allowing Steve Howard to bring the Foxes back on level terms in the second minute of stoppage time.
The result meant that Leicester’s unbeaten run at the Walkers Stadium now stretches back to September 18th, but City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson will be happy to take a point knowing his side lacked the cutting edge demonstrated against Barnsley last weekend.
Leicester were rewarded for yet another bright start when Paul Gallagher’s curling free kick flew into the top corner after Martyn Waghorn was brought down on the edge of the area.
The home side were then dominant for the next twenty minutes, but created few clear cut chances other than Andy King heading wide of Steve Simonsen in the Sheffield United goal.
Shortly afterwards, the Foxes were punished for their inability to turn possession into goals when, just before the half hour mark, Sheffield United caught Leicester on the counter attack through Andy Reid, who was able to find Mark Yeates in plenty of time and space to curl the ball past the helpless Chris Weale.
And with five minutes before half-time, Yeates put the visitors ahead with a stunning free kick after he was brought down by Curtis Davies outside the box.
The second half saw Steve Howard and Lloyd Dyer replace Martyn Waghorn and home debutant Darius Vassell; however, chances were few and far between for the home side, who looked somewhat deflated.
Paul Gallagher came close with another free kick, but Steve Simonsen was equal to it, just managing to tip the ball round the post for a corner.
With ten minutes remaining, Lloyd Dyer made a mazy run into the penalty area resulting in the ball falling at the feet of Steve Howard, whose shot from eighteen yards through a crowd of players was easily saved by Simonsen.
The defining point of the match came at the death when hero-turned-villain Mark Yeates handled the ball in the Blades’ penalty area in the second minute of stoppage time.
Steve Howard stepped up to blast the ball into the bottom corner from twelve yards for his fourth goal of the season, much to the jubilation – and relief – of the home fans.
In the final few seconds of the match, Kyle Naughton lashed the ball across the face of the goal with substitute Matty Fryatt in the penalty area, but was unable to pick him out.
The points were shared on the night, but Sheffield United manager Gary Speed will be frustrated to have not held on to win the game.
Meanwhile, Sven-Goran Eriksson knows his team must be more clinical in this weekend’s huge match at home to Derby County to earn bragging rights in the East Midlands.
Man of the Match – Mark Yeates
Friday 5 November 2010
Preview: Barnsley v Leicester City - 6th November 2010
Teams:
Barnsley v Leicester City
Location:
Oakwell, Barnsley.
Current league position:
Barnsley - 17th
Leicester - 19th
Last meeting:
Barnsley 1 – 0 Leicester – 26th January, 2010
League form (last five games):
Barnsley – D L L W L (4 points)
Leicester – W L W D W (10 points)
Top goal scorers:
Barnsley – Adam Hammill (5)
Leicester – Andy King (5)
Match facts:
Barnsley have been strong at home this season, picking up fourteen points from a possible 21.
Leicester City have the worst defensive record in the Championship away from home so far this season, and are yet to keep a clean sheet away from the Walkers Stadium.
The Foxes have won seven of their last eight games against Barnsley.
Key battles:
Adam Hammill v Kyle Naughton/Greg Cunningham
Hammill is an attacking threat all over the pitch for the Tykes, although he likes to hit the flanks whenever possible. This will provide interesting match-ups for loanees Greg Cunningham and Kyle Naughton, who have looked promising for the Foxes so far.
Luke Potter v Lloyd Dyer
An injury to Matt Hill means that Luke Potter may be forced to step in at left back. Dyer loves to run at defenders, and Potter may struggle to contain him in the final third of the pitch. Against speedy full-backs who like to push forward, Barnsley’s defence will need to be on red alert all afternoon.
Thoughts:
Whilst their league position suggests otherwise, Leicester are on a good run of league form since the appointment of Sven Goran-Eriksson. Although away from home, they now play a Barnsley side who struggle to capitalise on slender leads in games. Manager Mark Robins will be hoping that they have enough speed going forward to trouble a generally leaky Foxes defence, now boosted with the return of Curtis Davies who suffered a hamstring injury two weeks ago against Swansea.
The first goal may still prove to be crucial, but with Leicester’s depth in attacking players – including Darius Vassell who is now eligible to play in tomorrow’s match following international clearance problems – they should enough options to get a win.
Prediction:
Barnsley 1 – 2 Leicester
Barnsley v Leicester City
Location:
Oakwell, Barnsley.
Current league position:
Barnsley - 17th
Leicester - 19th
Last meeting:
Barnsley 1 – 0 Leicester – 26th January, 2010
League form (last five games):
Barnsley – D L L W L (4 points)
Leicester – W L W D W (10 points)
Top goal scorers:
Barnsley – Adam Hammill (5)
Leicester – Andy King (5)
Match facts:
Barnsley have been strong at home this season, picking up fourteen points from a possible 21.
Leicester City have the worst defensive record in the Championship away from home so far this season, and are yet to keep a clean sheet away from the Walkers Stadium.
The Foxes have won seven of their last eight games against Barnsley.
Key battles:
Adam Hammill v Kyle Naughton/Greg Cunningham
Hammill is an attacking threat all over the pitch for the Tykes, although he likes to hit the flanks whenever possible. This will provide interesting match-ups for loanees Greg Cunningham and Kyle Naughton, who have looked promising for the Foxes so far.
Luke Potter v Lloyd Dyer
An injury to Matt Hill means that Luke Potter may be forced to step in at left back. Dyer loves to run at defenders, and Potter may struggle to contain him in the final third of the pitch. Against speedy full-backs who like to push forward, Barnsley’s defence will need to be on red alert all afternoon.
Thoughts:
Whilst their league position suggests otherwise, Leicester are on a good run of league form since the appointment of Sven Goran-Eriksson. Although away from home, they now play a Barnsley side who struggle to capitalise on slender leads in games. Manager Mark Robins will be hoping that they have enough speed going forward to trouble a generally leaky Foxes defence, now boosted with the return of Curtis Davies who suffered a hamstring injury two weeks ago against Swansea.
The first goal may still prove to be crucial, but with Leicester’s depth in attacking players – including Darius Vassell who is now eligible to play in tomorrow’s match following international clearance problems – they should enough options to get a win.
Prediction:
Barnsley 1 – 2 Leicester
Saturday 30 October 2010
Leicester City 1 - 0 Preston North End - 30th October 2010
Paul Gallagher’s first half strike was enough to give Leicester City a much needed three points this afternoon against a poor Preston North End side at the Walkers Stadium.
The only goal came in the 36th minute when Gallagher latched on to a neat pass from Yuki Abe before slotting the ball past Preston goalkeeper Andy Lonergan, in a game which seemed to spark out in the second half.
The result meant that Leicester leapfrog the visiting side in the Championship table, and also allowed the Foxes to finish October strongly, having picked up ten points from a possible fifteen since the appointment of manager Sven Goran-Eriksson.
Seven changes were made to the side that lost 4-1 to West Bromwich Albion in the Carling Cup during the week, whilst Preston were without suspended striker Jon Parkin following their 4-3 win over Crystal Palace last weekend.
Darren Ferguson’s men could have taken the lead in the first minute when a slip from Foxes’ defender Jack Hobbs allowed Adam Barton in on goal, but the 19 year old could only curl the ball wide of the mark from twelve yards.
At the other end, Paul Gallagher had a rasping shot tipped over the bar by Andy Lonergan, who was again forced into action from Martyn Waghorn’s ensuing corner kick.
Waghorn then had a glorious opportunity to put the hosts ahead soon afterwards when Miguel Vitor’s header fell to the former Sunderland man just inside the penalty area, but his wild shot flew well wide of the post.
Preston again had a great opportunity to score minutes later when Keith Treacy’s looping cross appeared to beat Chris Weale, but the Leicester goalkeeper managed to tip Adam Barton’s header over the bar.
As the game slowed down, Leicester were able to maintain possession and pass the ball around with confidence against a Preston side featuring former Foxes Callum Davidson, Wayne Brown and fan favourite Iain Hume.
The deadlock was broken in the 36th minute when Yuki Abe made a fine run through the heart of the Preston midfield before laying the ball off to Paul Gallagher, who fired precisely past the helpless Lonergan to net his first of the season.
Leicester remained the better side after the break, with full-backs Greg Cunningham and Kyle Naughton tirelessly running up and down the flanks to compliment any attacking play.
Cunningham – on loan from Manchester City – came close to doubling Leicester’s lead fifteen minutes into the second half after a wonderfully worked passage of play involving Richie Wellens and Paul Gallagher allowed the youngster to continue his mazy run from the left back position into the Preston penalty area; however his shot fell just wide of the mark.
After that, the second half contained very few clear cut chances with Preston never really threatening the Leicester goal, and Gallagher almost put the game out of sight in the 85th minute when his fierce shot was tipped away by Lonergan at full stretch.
In the last minute of injury time, Wayne Brown almost snatched a point for the visitors when he latched on to a hopeful ball into the penalty area, but his unmarked header landed inches wide of the post, much to the delight of the Foxes fans behind the goal.
Leicester held on for only their second clean sheet of the season – and three important points - as Eriksson’s impressive league form continues to help the Foxes climb the Championship table.
Man of the Match – Miguel Vitor
The only goal came in the 36th minute when Gallagher latched on to a neat pass from Yuki Abe before slotting the ball past Preston goalkeeper Andy Lonergan, in a game which seemed to spark out in the second half.
The result meant that Leicester leapfrog the visiting side in the Championship table, and also allowed the Foxes to finish October strongly, having picked up ten points from a possible fifteen since the appointment of manager Sven Goran-Eriksson.
Seven changes were made to the side that lost 4-1 to West Bromwich Albion in the Carling Cup during the week, whilst Preston were without suspended striker Jon Parkin following their 4-3 win over Crystal Palace last weekend.
Darren Ferguson’s men could have taken the lead in the first minute when a slip from Foxes’ defender Jack Hobbs allowed Adam Barton in on goal, but the 19 year old could only curl the ball wide of the mark from twelve yards.
At the other end, Paul Gallagher had a rasping shot tipped over the bar by Andy Lonergan, who was again forced into action from Martyn Waghorn’s ensuing corner kick.
Waghorn then had a glorious opportunity to put the hosts ahead soon afterwards when Miguel Vitor’s header fell to the former Sunderland man just inside the penalty area, but his wild shot flew well wide of the post.
Preston again had a great opportunity to score minutes later when Keith Treacy’s looping cross appeared to beat Chris Weale, but the Leicester goalkeeper managed to tip Adam Barton’s header over the bar.
As the game slowed down, Leicester were able to maintain possession and pass the ball around with confidence against a Preston side featuring former Foxes Callum Davidson, Wayne Brown and fan favourite Iain Hume.
The deadlock was broken in the 36th minute when Yuki Abe made a fine run through the heart of the Preston midfield before laying the ball off to Paul Gallagher, who fired precisely past the helpless Lonergan to net his first of the season.
Leicester remained the better side after the break, with full-backs Greg Cunningham and Kyle Naughton tirelessly running up and down the flanks to compliment any attacking play.
Cunningham – on loan from Manchester City – came close to doubling Leicester’s lead fifteen minutes into the second half after a wonderfully worked passage of play involving Richie Wellens and Paul Gallagher allowed the youngster to continue his mazy run from the left back position into the Preston penalty area; however his shot fell just wide of the mark.
After that, the second half contained very few clear cut chances with Preston never really threatening the Leicester goal, and Gallagher almost put the game out of sight in the 85th minute when his fierce shot was tipped away by Lonergan at full stretch.
In the last minute of injury time, Wayne Brown almost snatched a point for the visitors when he latched on to a hopeful ball into the penalty area, but his unmarked header landed inches wide of the post, much to the delight of the Foxes fans behind the goal.
Leicester held on for only their second clean sheet of the season – and three important points - as Eriksson’s impressive league form continues to help the Foxes climb the Championship table.
Man of the Match – Miguel Vitor
Wednesday 27 October 2010
Leicester City 1 - 4 West Bromich Albion - 26th October 2010
Leicester City’s Carling Cup run came to a grinding halt as they were beaten 4-1 at home by high-flying West Bromwich Albion.
Simon Cox put the Baggies ahead after 21 minutes with a clever chip over Leicester goalkeeper Conrad Logan, but the Foxes equalised shortly after half-time when Nicky Shorey turned Paul Gallagher’s strike into his own net.
West Brom soon regained the lead after a calamitous goalkeeping error by Logan gave Somen Tchoyi the simplest of tap ins, and Steven Reid’s close range header with ten minutes remaining gave the visitors some breathing room and ended any chance of a cup upset.
Cox added his second – and Albion’s fourth – in the final minute of the game to cap off an unsuccessful evening for Foxes’ manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Roberto Di Matteo fielded an entirely different starting eleven from the side that defeated Fulham at the weekend – boosting them to sixth in the Premier League – whilst Eriksson made eight changes following Leicester’s away defeat at Swansea.
Leicester started positively in the opening twenty minutes of the match, with Paul Gallagher coming close with a low shot from distance which whistled past the post, followed by Lloyd Dyer forcing Baggies’ goalkeeper Boaz Myhill into action after a quick counter attack by Yuki Abe.
However it was their Midlands rivals who drew first blood against the run of play when a defensive mix-up in the penalty area allowed Simon Cox to latch onto Roman Bednar’s deflected shot and cleverly chip the ball over goalkeeper Conrad Logan from six yards.
The visitors almost doubled the lead minutes later when Giles Barnes played a low ball across the face of the Leicester goal, but Bednar was unable to turn it goal bound.
Gallagher fired a free kick wide shortly afterwards, but it was West Brom who finished the half strongly with Somen Tchoyi firing across goal after beating full-back Robbie Neilson to the ball, and Bednar forcing Conrad Logan to make an acrobatic fingertip save to steer his header away for a corner.
Ten minutes after the break, Leicester drew level when Paul Gallagher’s angled shot was inadvertently deflected into the West Brom goal by substitute Nicky Shorey.
The away side continued to threaten the Leicester defence but squandered decent opportunities to restore the lead, with Cox failing to trouble Logan despite beating the last defender, and Bednar heading the ball over at the near post.
The hosts could have capitalised through Yuki Abe after some clever work in midfield by Andy King, but the Japanese international was unable to hit the target with a low drive.
The Baggies were gifted the lead when a harmless long ball went straight through the hands of Foxes’ goalkeeper Conrad Logan and into the path of Somen Tchoyi, who put the ball into the open goal.
As Leicester heads dropped, West Brom began to show their Premier League superiority, dominating possession with spacious passing all over the pitch and denying Leicester any opportunity to threaten for an equaliser.
Logan regained some credibility by tipping Nicky Shorey’s free kick over the bar; however, the ensuing corner kick was headed home by an unmarked Steven Reid with ten minutes remaining to put the visitors 3-1 ahead, and in clear control of the game.
And in the 90th minute, Simon Cox’s unstoppable strike from 25 yards following a speedy counter attack sealed West Brom’s place in the Carling Cup quarter-finals and condemned Leicester City to their second loss in five days.
Man of the Match – Giles Barnes
Simon Cox put the Baggies ahead after 21 minutes with a clever chip over Leicester goalkeeper Conrad Logan, but the Foxes equalised shortly after half-time when Nicky Shorey turned Paul Gallagher’s strike into his own net.
West Brom soon regained the lead after a calamitous goalkeeping error by Logan gave Somen Tchoyi the simplest of tap ins, and Steven Reid’s close range header with ten minutes remaining gave the visitors some breathing room and ended any chance of a cup upset.
Cox added his second – and Albion’s fourth – in the final minute of the game to cap off an unsuccessful evening for Foxes’ manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Roberto Di Matteo fielded an entirely different starting eleven from the side that defeated Fulham at the weekend – boosting them to sixth in the Premier League – whilst Eriksson made eight changes following Leicester’s away defeat at Swansea.
Leicester started positively in the opening twenty minutes of the match, with Paul Gallagher coming close with a low shot from distance which whistled past the post, followed by Lloyd Dyer forcing Baggies’ goalkeeper Boaz Myhill into action after a quick counter attack by Yuki Abe.
However it was their Midlands rivals who drew first blood against the run of play when a defensive mix-up in the penalty area allowed Simon Cox to latch onto Roman Bednar’s deflected shot and cleverly chip the ball over goalkeeper Conrad Logan from six yards.
The visitors almost doubled the lead minutes later when Giles Barnes played a low ball across the face of the Leicester goal, but Bednar was unable to turn it goal bound.
Gallagher fired a free kick wide shortly afterwards, but it was West Brom who finished the half strongly with Somen Tchoyi firing across goal after beating full-back Robbie Neilson to the ball, and Bednar forcing Conrad Logan to make an acrobatic fingertip save to steer his header away for a corner.
Ten minutes after the break, Leicester drew level when Paul Gallagher’s angled shot was inadvertently deflected into the West Brom goal by substitute Nicky Shorey.
The away side continued to threaten the Leicester defence but squandered decent opportunities to restore the lead, with Cox failing to trouble Logan despite beating the last defender, and Bednar heading the ball over at the near post.
The hosts could have capitalised through Yuki Abe after some clever work in midfield by Andy King, but the Japanese international was unable to hit the target with a low drive.
The Baggies were gifted the lead when a harmless long ball went straight through the hands of Foxes’ goalkeeper Conrad Logan and into the path of Somen Tchoyi, who put the ball into the open goal.
As Leicester heads dropped, West Brom began to show their Premier League superiority, dominating possession with spacious passing all over the pitch and denying Leicester any opportunity to threaten for an equaliser.
Logan regained some credibility by tipping Nicky Shorey’s free kick over the bar; however, the ensuing corner kick was headed home by an unmarked Steven Reid with ten minutes remaining to put the visitors 3-1 ahead, and in clear control of the game.
And in the 90th minute, Simon Cox’s unstoppable strike from 25 yards following a speedy counter attack sealed West Brom’s place in the Carling Cup quarter-finals and condemned Leicester City to their second loss in five days.
Man of the Match – Giles Barnes
Wednesday 20 October 2010
Leicester City - New Signings Part Two
A couple of months ago, I promised to update an old article with new signings as and when they arrived at the club. However, transfers dried up a little after Yuki Abe and Martyn Waghorn signed for Leicester City, so here’s a look at the newest loan additions to the squad since Sven-Goran Eriksson took charge.
Name: Kyle Naughton
Age: 21
Position: Right back
Transfer fee: n/a (on loan from Tottenham Hotspur until January 2011)
Last season:
After signing from Sheffield United in 2009, Naughton only featured once as a substitute for Tottenham Hotspur last season. He had a six month loan spell with Middlesborough from February 2010, playing in fifteen games.
First thoughts:
An bit of an unknown quantity unless seen playing during the 2008/09 season for Sheffield United, where he was voted Young Player of the Year by fans, and runner up Senior Player of the Year.
Who does he replace?
Robbie Neilson and Michael Lamey, who both featured during Paulo Sousa’s time in charge. Michael Morrison may also find that his opportunities become more limited as a result of a more experienced right back entering the fray.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Known for his blistering pace, Naughton offers an attacking option as an overlapping full back which suits Eriksson’s preferred 4-4-2 formation, especially with Lloyd Dyer and Dany N’Guessan both currently sidelined. More importantly, the former England under-21 man has already demonstrated great composure in defence. Scoring in Leicester’s 2-1 away win over Leeds United will give him extra confidence.
Transfer rating: 8/10
Name: Curtis Davies
Age: 25
Position: Centre back
Transfer fee: n/a (on loan from Aston Villa for one month)
Last season:
Davies started 37 games for Villa under Martin O’Neill, scoring two goals in the process. However, he struggled to keep his place in the team after undergoing shoulder surgery in October 2009, as well as facing strong competition in the Villa defence from both Richard Dunne and James Collins.
First thoughts:
A very good signing, should he be able to stay injury free.
Who does he replace?
The hole in the defence left by the loss of Wayne Brown last season, which Paulo Sousa never really addressed during the summer.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Although only 25 years of age, Davies offers experience to a mostly youthful set of defenders. He is a gifted footballer but still happy to do the dirty work in defence and offers physical prowess and good aerial ability. The addition of Davies is likely to allow Jack Hobbs to play in the style he did last season, rather than filling in as the brawn of the two centre backs. If he can stay healthy, Davies should start every game for the next month.
Transfer rating: 9/10
Name: Darius Vassell
Age: 30
Position: Striker/Winger
Transfer fee: n/a (free agent)
Last season:
Vassell spent last season with Turkish side MKE Ankaragücü, scoring four times in 25 appearances.
First thoughts: Questions as to whether he still has the pace he previously demonstrated in the Premier League and at international level.
Who does he replace? Nobody in particular, although he does provide added depth amongst Leicester's strikers. Vassell could feature as a winger should Erikkson ever adopt a 4-3-3 or 4-5-1 formation.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
At the very least, Vassell offers experience to some of the younger attacking players, having formerly played for Aston Villa, Manchester City and England. Having played for Eriksson at the aforementioned latter two clubs, Vassell may be able to rediscover his previous good form in English football. He won’t be match fit for another week or so, but will be interesting to see how he fares in the Championship. This one could go either way.
Transfer rating: 7/10
Name: Kyle Naughton
Age: 21
Position: Right back
Transfer fee: n/a (on loan from Tottenham Hotspur until January 2011)
Last season:
After signing from Sheffield United in 2009, Naughton only featured once as a substitute for Tottenham Hotspur last season. He had a six month loan spell with Middlesborough from February 2010, playing in fifteen games.
First thoughts:
An bit of an unknown quantity unless seen playing during the 2008/09 season for Sheffield United, where he was voted Young Player of the Year by fans, and runner up Senior Player of the Year.
Who does he replace?
Robbie Neilson and Michael Lamey, who both featured during Paulo Sousa’s time in charge. Michael Morrison may also find that his opportunities become more limited as a result of a more experienced right back entering the fray.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Known for his blistering pace, Naughton offers an attacking option as an overlapping full back which suits Eriksson’s preferred 4-4-2 formation, especially with Lloyd Dyer and Dany N’Guessan both currently sidelined. More importantly, the former England under-21 man has already demonstrated great composure in defence. Scoring in Leicester’s 2-1 away win over Leeds United will give him extra confidence.
Transfer rating: 8/10
Name: Curtis Davies
Age: 25
Position: Centre back
Transfer fee: n/a (on loan from Aston Villa for one month)
Last season:
Davies started 37 games for Villa under Martin O’Neill, scoring two goals in the process. However, he struggled to keep his place in the team after undergoing shoulder surgery in October 2009, as well as facing strong competition in the Villa defence from both Richard Dunne and James Collins.
First thoughts:
A very good signing, should he be able to stay injury free.
Who does he replace?
The hole in the defence left by the loss of Wayne Brown last season, which Paulo Sousa never really addressed during the summer.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Although only 25 years of age, Davies offers experience to a mostly youthful set of defenders. He is a gifted footballer but still happy to do the dirty work in defence and offers physical prowess and good aerial ability. The addition of Davies is likely to allow Jack Hobbs to play in the style he did last season, rather than filling in as the brawn of the two centre backs. If he can stay healthy, Davies should start every game for the next month.
Transfer rating: 9/10
Name: Darius Vassell
Age: 30
Position: Striker/Winger
Transfer fee: n/a (free agent)
Last season:
Vassell spent last season with Turkish side MKE Ankaragücü, scoring four times in 25 appearances.
First thoughts: Questions as to whether he still has the pace he previously demonstrated in the Premier League and at international level.
Who does he replace? Nobody in particular, although he does provide added depth amongst Leicester's strikers. Vassell could feature as a winger should Erikkson ever adopt a 4-3-3 or 4-5-1 formation.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
At the very least, Vassell offers experience to some of the younger attacking players, having formerly played for Aston Villa, Manchester City and England. Having played for Eriksson at the aforementioned latter two clubs, Vassell may be able to rediscover his previous good form in English football. He won’t be match fit for another week or so, but will be interesting to see how he fares in the Championship. This one could go either way.
Transfer rating: 7/10
Sunday 17 October 2010
Leicester City 1 - 1 Hull City - 16th October 2010
Robert Koren’s second half goal was enough to earn Hull City a point at the Walkers Stadium and spoil new Leicester boss Sven-Goran Eriksson’s home debut.
Andy King’s fifth goal of the season put the hosts ahead in just the third minute, but Robert Koren’s fine strike five minutes after half-time ensured that the points were shared in a heated match which featured the return of former Foxes manager Nigel Pearson to the Walkers Stadium.
Both of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s recently acquired loanees Kyle Naughton and Curtis Davies featured in the starting line-up for the Foxes, who both signed for Leicester this week.
Leicester dominated the first half and were ahead after three minutes through Andy King after some excellent work from Richie Wellens and Matt Oakley played the Welshman in behind the Hull defence, and was able to find a way past Matt Duke despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to the ball.
King was again involved minutes later when his cross was met by the head of Martyn Waghorn in the penalty area, who forced an excellent save from Duke.
From the ensuing corner, Curtis Davies – on loan from Aston Villa – was unlucky not to double Leicester’s lead with a solid header which drifted back across goal.
Kyle Naughton – also on loan at Leicester, this time from Tottenham – looked very assured as he pushed forward to cross the ball to Steve Howard at the back post, who headed back to Andy King whose goal-bound effort was blocked by fellow Welsh international Anthony Gerrard.
Bruno Berner’s long range shot just before half-time had Duke at full stretch again, but the full-back’s effort ran just wide of the far post.
Hull were a completely different side in the second half, and they were level within minutes after the restart with their first real chance of the game as Robert Koren’s superb long range strike could only be parried into the net by returning Foxes keeper Chris Weale after the Leicester defence failed to close down the Slovenian.
The visitors were the better side for most of the second half, creating a number of good chances to go ahead, as Mark Cullen’s volley from a route one goal kick flew just over the crossbar.
Some last ditch defending by Bruno Berner thwarted Caleb Folan at the back post as Hull continued to press, with the Swiss international just doing enough to put the ball behind for a corner at the back post to avoid a certain goal.
The game twisted and turned in the latter stages of the half with both sides looking for a winner, as Leicester substitute Franck Moussa’s corner found Jack Hobbs at the back post, his header lacked power and was saved by Matt Duke.
At the other end, Chris Weale was forced to make a near post save from a Kevin Kilbane header with fifteen minutes remaining.
As time began to run out, Paul Gallagher had a great chance to put the Foxes ahead after the Hull defence failed to deal with a Martyn Waghorn corner, but the ball bounced up just before his strike, and his shot sailed over the bar from close range.
Leicester piled on the pressure in the dying minutes as Bruno Berner’s shot was blocked in the six yard box after another Waghorn corner, but could not find a way through despite four minutes of added time.
The final whistle meant that both sides would have to settle for a draw, as both managers – each seeming fairly pleased with a point – left the pitch to a standing ovation from the fans.
Man of the Match – Curtis Davies
Andy King’s fifth goal of the season put the hosts ahead in just the third minute, but Robert Koren’s fine strike five minutes after half-time ensured that the points were shared in a heated match which featured the return of former Foxes manager Nigel Pearson to the Walkers Stadium.
Both of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s recently acquired loanees Kyle Naughton and Curtis Davies featured in the starting line-up for the Foxes, who both signed for Leicester this week.
Leicester dominated the first half and were ahead after three minutes through Andy King after some excellent work from Richie Wellens and Matt Oakley played the Welshman in behind the Hull defence, and was able to find a way past Matt Duke despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to the ball.
King was again involved minutes later when his cross was met by the head of Martyn Waghorn in the penalty area, who forced an excellent save from Duke.
From the ensuing corner, Curtis Davies – on loan from Aston Villa – was unlucky not to double Leicester’s lead with a solid header which drifted back across goal.
Kyle Naughton – also on loan at Leicester, this time from Tottenham – looked very assured as he pushed forward to cross the ball to Steve Howard at the back post, who headed back to Andy King whose goal-bound effort was blocked by fellow Welsh international Anthony Gerrard.
Bruno Berner’s long range shot just before half-time had Duke at full stretch again, but the full-back’s effort ran just wide of the far post.
Hull were a completely different side in the second half, and they were level within minutes after the restart with their first real chance of the game as Robert Koren’s superb long range strike could only be parried into the net by returning Foxes keeper Chris Weale after the Leicester defence failed to close down the Slovenian.
The visitors were the better side for most of the second half, creating a number of good chances to go ahead, as Mark Cullen’s volley from a route one goal kick flew just over the crossbar.
Some last ditch defending by Bruno Berner thwarted Caleb Folan at the back post as Hull continued to press, with the Swiss international just doing enough to put the ball behind for a corner at the back post to avoid a certain goal.
The game twisted and turned in the latter stages of the half with both sides looking for a winner, as Leicester substitute Franck Moussa’s corner found Jack Hobbs at the back post, his header lacked power and was saved by Matt Duke.
At the other end, Chris Weale was forced to make a near post save from a Kevin Kilbane header with fifteen minutes remaining.
As time began to run out, Paul Gallagher had a great chance to put the Foxes ahead after the Hull defence failed to deal with a Martyn Waghorn corner, but the ball bounced up just before his strike, and his shot sailed over the bar from close range.
Leicester piled on the pressure in the dying minutes as Bruno Berner’s shot was blocked in the six yard box after another Waghorn corner, but could not find a way through despite four minutes of added time.
The final whistle meant that both sides would have to settle for a draw, as both managers – each seeming fairly pleased with a point – left the pitch to a standing ovation from the fans.
Man of the Match – Curtis Davies
Friday 15 October 2010
Why Nigel Pearson's return to the Walkers Stadium should be a welcome one
With all of the goings on at the Walkers Stadium over the last two weeks; the departure of boss Paulo Sousa and subsequent arrival of new manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, Leicester’s successful mid-season tour of Thailand and new signings on the way, the return of Nigel Pearson to his former club tomorrow afternoon has not been as much on the radar as one might have initially anticipated at the commencement of this Championship season.
Pearson left Leicester during the summer after apparent fallings out behind the scenes, and despite various statements being released, the rumour mill churning out various stories and the former Foxes manager actually being interviewed on BBC Radio Leicester recently, the fans are still unsure as to the real reason for his exit. His departure left most fans confused, more than anything else. It was difficult to understand why the man who led Leicester to two successful seasons would seemingly ‘leave’ for pastures new at Hull City. Did he walk? Was he pushed? Who did he fall out with – and over what?
Nigel Pearson said in that interview that he felt the club did not do enough to keep him, although it hardly answers all questions. Pearson – now with Hull City, Leicester’s next opponents - always kept his cards held close to his chest, and so fans may never know the full extent of what happened. But that should not stop the Blue Army faithful from welcoming him with a standing ovation.
In recent years, many have come and gone through the revolving door that is the position of Leicester City manager. But few – if any, since the days of Martin O’Neill – have made such an impact as Nigel Pearson did during his two years at the helm.
After relegation to the third tier of English football for the first time in the club’s history, Pearson led Leicester to promotion back into the Championship and to the playoffs during the subsequent season – the club’s best finish in that division since 2003. He signed players like Lloyd Dyer, Richie Wellens, Jack Hobbs and Chris Weale who are now fan favourites. He turned the Walkers Stadium into a fortress, only losing five times at home in two seasons. He gave very little away, never playing into the hands of interviewers – yet acted like a true professional at all times and acted decisively during games without cracking under the pressure. Most importantly, he gave Foxes fans a sense of optimism that good things were happening. And that should be appreciated.
There is no doubt that the most important thing for Foxes fans tomorrow is that Leicester beat Hull City, take three points and start climbing the Championship table as quickly as possible. There is a huge mountain to climb in terms of getting this season back on track. But before kick-off, and whilst this may not fit the protocol regarding managers returning to former clubs, I hope Nigel Pearson gets the welcome back tomorrow he truly deserves.
Pearson left Leicester during the summer after apparent fallings out behind the scenes, and despite various statements being released, the rumour mill churning out various stories and the former Foxes manager actually being interviewed on BBC Radio Leicester recently, the fans are still unsure as to the real reason for his exit. His departure left most fans confused, more than anything else. It was difficult to understand why the man who led Leicester to two successful seasons would seemingly ‘leave’ for pastures new at Hull City. Did he walk? Was he pushed? Who did he fall out with – and over what?
Nigel Pearson said in that interview that he felt the club did not do enough to keep him, although it hardly answers all questions. Pearson – now with Hull City, Leicester’s next opponents - always kept his cards held close to his chest, and so fans may never know the full extent of what happened. But that should not stop the Blue Army faithful from welcoming him with a standing ovation.
In recent years, many have come and gone through the revolving door that is the position of Leicester City manager. But few – if any, since the days of Martin O’Neill – have made such an impact as Nigel Pearson did during his two years at the helm.
After relegation to the third tier of English football for the first time in the club’s history, Pearson led Leicester to promotion back into the Championship and to the playoffs during the subsequent season – the club’s best finish in that division since 2003. He signed players like Lloyd Dyer, Richie Wellens, Jack Hobbs and Chris Weale who are now fan favourites. He turned the Walkers Stadium into a fortress, only losing five times at home in two seasons. He gave very little away, never playing into the hands of interviewers – yet acted like a true professional at all times and acted decisively during games without cracking under the pressure. Most importantly, he gave Foxes fans a sense of optimism that good things were happening. And that should be appreciated.
There is no doubt that the most important thing for Foxes fans tomorrow is that Leicester beat Hull City, take three points and start climbing the Championship table as quickly as possible. There is a huge mountain to climb in terms of getting this season back on track. But before kick-off, and whilst this may not fit the protocol regarding managers returning to former clubs, I hope Nigel Pearson gets the welcome back tomorrow he truly deserves.
Thursday 7 October 2010
Sven-Göran Eriksson: can the former England boss take Leicester City to the top?
It is without question that the dismissal of former boss Paulo Sousa, followed by the somewhat hasty signing of former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson, has rocked the boat at Leicester City. His unsuccessful stint as the director of football at Notts County left little to be desired, resulting in Eriksson leaving the club within a matter of months last season. Therefore it is unsurprising that Foxes fans are hardly bowled over with this new managerial appointment.
However, I believe that there is reason to be more optimistic. I agree with Milan Mandaric’s justification behind the sacking of Paulo Sousa last week. Sousa is a classy guy and he did have potential. Leicester City played exciting, attacking football under him which was very refreshing to see, and the argument can quickly be made that nine league games is not a long enough time period for any manager to make his mark on a football club (bearing in mind he also won three cup games in the two months he was at the Walkers Stadium). But the defence was uncharacteristically bad. 22 goals were conceded in nine games. Last season under Nigel Pearson, Leicester only conceded 45 goals all season with essentially the same group of defenders. While some players were excelling under Sousa’s attacking style of football, others such as Jack Hobbs and Michael Morrison began to look increasingly uncomfortable, resulting on too much pressure being put on more attacking players to overcome an almost inevitable deficit in every game.
How long can a chairman sit and wait before the season becomes seriously damaged – considering the expectations after last season? If Milan Mandaric had waited until Christmas before finding a new manager - with Sousa’s style showing no signs of improvement – he would have been criticised by the fans for waiting too long. Mandaric was in a very difficult situation, and he had to make a difficult decision. As cruel as it may be, it is easier to replace your manager than it is to replace a large number of players – especially when said players have such talent and potential, as has been demonstrated over the previous two seasons.
But the decision to bring Eriksson in seems as though it could have been in the pipeline long before Sousa’s final two games in charge against Portsmouth and Norwich, which is unfair. Sousa had a plan for this club, and Mandaric was well aware of that plan when he offered him the position. But Mandaric has said on countless occasions that he is willing to do whatever it takes to bring success to Leicester City, and sitting at the bottom of the Championship after almost a quarter of the season is not a good place to be. Although there is still a long way to go in this Championship campaign, a change had to be made to bring success to this season.
Like many others, I don’t strictly disapprove of the appointment of Eriksson. As mentioned earlier, he has managed at international level, and in the Premier League, and thus has a great deal of experience in English football. Mandaric has also been criticised for his selection, it being labelled as a publicity stunt by fans and the media. However, Aiyawatt Raksriaksorn and the other members of the Thai-based consortium who own the club would have had as much input regarding the hiring of Eriksson as the chairman did. If that is the case, then this is not so much a publicity stunt as it is the owners showing intolerance to failure, and an expectation of good results. Whilst Mandaric has demonstrated a track record for showing impatience with managers at times, if the decision had been purely down to him, Paulo Sousa probably would have been given more time at the helm. The possibility, therefore, that the new ownership could once again in a quick turnover of managers – as experienced during the 2007/2008 season – is a realistic one.
I also worry that Eriksson could flood his backroom with outside names, having already brought in Derek Fazackerley, whom he worked with during his time at Manchester City. This could potentially force out coaches, and current stand-in managers, Chris Powell and Mike Stowell. This would be a huge mistake. As can be demonstrated by the way Leicester bounced back against Scunthorpe United at the weekend, many of the players have a great connection with both of these coaches, and the club itself is lucky to have them as part of the backroom staff. Both have also expressed their interest in staying at the club, and Eriksson would do well to keep them around to help with the development of the first team players, and also to gain the trust and support of the Blue Army faithful.
Life is never dull as a Leicester City supporter, and once again the club appears to be headed for uncertain times. However, fans should not necessarily be pessimistic. The squad is still very strong, and as far as league position goes, the only way is up. If Eriksson can get the best from these players then he could be on to a winner. If they don’t respond, then his time at the Walkers Stadium – like Paulo Sousa – could be short lived. The jury is still out on this appointment, but Eriksson certainly has the potential to bring this football club back to winning ways.
However, I believe that there is reason to be more optimistic. I agree with Milan Mandaric’s justification behind the sacking of Paulo Sousa last week. Sousa is a classy guy and he did have potential. Leicester City played exciting, attacking football under him which was very refreshing to see, and the argument can quickly be made that nine league games is not a long enough time period for any manager to make his mark on a football club (bearing in mind he also won three cup games in the two months he was at the Walkers Stadium). But the defence was uncharacteristically bad. 22 goals were conceded in nine games. Last season under Nigel Pearson, Leicester only conceded 45 goals all season with essentially the same group of defenders. While some players were excelling under Sousa’s attacking style of football, others such as Jack Hobbs and Michael Morrison began to look increasingly uncomfortable, resulting on too much pressure being put on more attacking players to overcome an almost inevitable deficit in every game.
How long can a chairman sit and wait before the season becomes seriously damaged – considering the expectations after last season? If Milan Mandaric had waited until Christmas before finding a new manager - with Sousa’s style showing no signs of improvement – he would have been criticised by the fans for waiting too long. Mandaric was in a very difficult situation, and he had to make a difficult decision. As cruel as it may be, it is easier to replace your manager than it is to replace a large number of players – especially when said players have such talent and potential, as has been demonstrated over the previous two seasons.
But the decision to bring Eriksson in seems as though it could have been in the pipeline long before Sousa’s final two games in charge against Portsmouth and Norwich, which is unfair. Sousa had a plan for this club, and Mandaric was well aware of that plan when he offered him the position. But Mandaric has said on countless occasions that he is willing to do whatever it takes to bring success to Leicester City, and sitting at the bottom of the Championship after almost a quarter of the season is not a good place to be. Although there is still a long way to go in this Championship campaign, a change had to be made to bring success to this season.
Like many others, I don’t strictly disapprove of the appointment of Eriksson. As mentioned earlier, he has managed at international level, and in the Premier League, and thus has a great deal of experience in English football. Mandaric has also been criticised for his selection, it being labelled as a publicity stunt by fans and the media. However, Aiyawatt Raksriaksorn and the other members of the Thai-based consortium who own the club would have had as much input regarding the hiring of Eriksson as the chairman did. If that is the case, then this is not so much a publicity stunt as it is the owners showing intolerance to failure, and an expectation of good results. Whilst Mandaric has demonstrated a track record for showing impatience with managers at times, if the decision had been purely down to him, Paulo Sousa probably would have been given more time at the helm. The possibility, therefore, that the new ownership could once again in a quick turnover of managers – as experienced during the 2007/2008 season – is a realistic one.
I also worry that Eriksson could flood his backroom with outside names, having already brought in Derek Fazackerley, whom he worked with during his time at Manchester City. This could potentially force out coaches, and current stand-in managers, Chris Powell and Mike Stowell. This would be a huge mistake. As can be demonstrated by the way Leicester bounced back against Scunthorpe United at the weekend, many of the players have a great connection with both of these coaches, and the club itself is lucky to have them as part of the backroom staff. Both have also expressed their interest in staying at the club, and Eriksson would do well to keep them around to help with the development of the first team players, and also to gain the trust and support of the Blue Army faithful.
Life is never dull as a Leicester City supporter, and once again the club appears to be headed for uncertain times. However, fans should not necessarily be pessimistic. The squad is still very strong, and as far as league position goes, the only way is up. If Eriksson can get the best from these players then he could be on to a winner. If they don’t respond, then his time at the Walkers Stadium – like Paulo Sousa – could be short lived. The jury is still out on this appointment, but Eriksson certainly has the potential to bring this football club back to winning ways.
Saturday 18 September 2010
Leicester City 0 - 2 Queens Park Rangers - 18th September 2010
QPR extended their lead at the top of the Championship this afternoon with a 2-0 victory over Leicester City at the Walkers Stadium.
Two goals from the in-form Jamie Mackie were enough to give QPR their sixth win in seven games, and pile more pressure on the struggling Foxes.
Leicester will have felt aggrieved to have not been awarded a second half penalty after substitute Steve Howard was involved in a clash which left him with blood pouring from his nose, which might have changed the game with the score still just 1-0.
However, another loss meant that Paulo Sousa’s men now find themselves in the bottom three again after another disappointing result.
Jamie Mackie opened the scoring for the away side in the twelfth minute when Adel Taarabt picked out the former Plymouth striker with a precise ball into the penalty area, who headed past goalkeeper Carl Ikeme to net his seventh goal in as many league games and continue his blistering start to the season.
The goal left Leicester falling behind in yet another game, leaving them with a mountain to climb against Neil Warnock’s men, who are still yet to be beaten in the league this season.
Chances were few and far between for Leicester in the first half, although Martyn Waghorn came closest with a powerful header from a quick Richie Wellens free kick, and shortly after with a near post shot which was saved at point blank range by goalkeeper Paddy Kenny.
The turning point in the match came in the second half when substitute Steve Howard – the only change to Leicester’s starting eleven from Tuesday night’s 2-1 win over Cardiff City - appeared to receive an elbow to the face in the penalty area following an aerial clash with the QPR defence.
However, the official quickly waved away any protests from the home side, despite the incident requiring the bloodied Howard to leave the pitch for treatment and a change of shirt.
As the intensity of the match began to build, Leicester came close to equalising when Andy King’s fine strike from twenty yards was well-matched by Paddy Kenny who parried the ball away at full stretch.
But QPR put the game to bed with a goal which came against the run of play, as Jamie Mackie found himself one on one against defender Michael Morrison, before firing past Ikeme into the bottom corner for his second goal of the game, and eighth of the season.
Although seven minutes of injury time were added on at the end of the match, Leicester failed to turn possession into any further goal scoring opportunities, allowing QPR to see the game out and extend their lead at the top of the table to five points, and condemning Leicester to their fourth defeat in seven in the Championship.
Man of the Match – Jamie Mackie
Two goals from the in-form Jamie Mackie were enough to give QPR their sixth win in seven games, and pile more pressure on the struggling Foxes.
Leicester will have felt aggrieved to have not been awarded a second half penalty after substitute Steve Howard was involved in a clash which left him with blood pouring from his nose, which might have changed the game with the score still just 1-0.
However, another loss meant that Paulo Sousa’s men now find themselves in the bottom three again after another disappointing result.
Jamie Mackie opened the scoring for the away side in the twelfth minute when Adel Taarabt picked out the former Plymouth striker with a precise ball into the penalty area, who headed past goalkeeper Carl Ikeme to net his seventh goal in as many league games and continue his blistering start to the season.
The goal left Leicester falling behind in yet another game, leaving them with a mountain to climb against Neil Warnock’s men, who are still yet to be beaten in the league this season.
Chances were few and far between for Leicester in the first half, although Martyn Waghorn came closest with a powerful header from a quick Richie Wellens free kick, and shortly after with a near post shot which was saved at point blank range by goalkeeper Paddy Kenny.
The turning point in the match came in the second half when substitute Steve Howard – the only change to Leicester’s starting eleven from Tuesday night’s 2-1 win over Cardiff City - appeared to receive an elbow to the face in the penalty area following an aerial clash with the QPR defence.
However, the official quickly waved away any protests from the home side, despite the incident requiring the bloodied Howard to leave the pitch for treatment and a change of shirt.
As the intensity of the match began to build, Leicester came close to equalising when Andy King’s fine strike from twenty yards was well-matched by Paddy Kenny who parried the ball away at full stretch.
But QPR put the game to bed with a goal which came against the run of play, as Jamie Mackie found himself one on one against defender Michael Morrison, before firing past Ikeme into the bottom corner for his second goal of the game, and eighth of the season.
Although seven minutes of injury time were added on at the end of the match, Leicester failed to turn possession into any further goal scoring opportunities, allowing QPR to see the game out and extend their lead at the top of the table to five points, and condemning Leicester to their fourth defeat in seven in the Championship.
Man of the Match – Jamie Mackie
Wednesday 15 September 2010
Leicester City 2 - 1 Cardiff - 14th September 2010
Two second half goals from Andy King gave Paulo Sousa his first league win as Leicester City manager at the expense of high flying Cardiff.
The visitors took the lead in the first half when Lee Naylor’s bizarre cross-turned-shot deceived everyone - including Leicester goalkeeper Carl Ikeme who was caught off his line.
But the Foxes struck back through Andy King who made a late run into the penalty area to head home Richie Wellens’ cross.
King scored his second of the night seventeen minutes later with a superb curling strike, condemning Cardiff to their first loss of the season.
The win demonstrated that any bad memories from the end of last season when Cardiff dumped Leicester out of the play-offs on penalties had certainly been vanquished.
The match saw Martyn Waghorn’s return to the Walkers Stadium, who spent last season with Leicester on loan from Sunderland, scoring twelve goals in the process.
Cardiff – who were without the injured Michael Chopra, Craig Bellamy, Jay Bothroyd and Seyi Olofinjana – took the lead in after 26 minutes in the most bizarre circumstances.
Lee Naylor’s cross from over 40 yards out by the touchline managed to confuse everybody, including on loan goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, as it flew over his head and into the top corner.
It was very much the story of the season so far for the home side with the goal coming against the run of play, as it was Leicester that had started the stronger of the two teams.
Cardiff then took control of the match and created some good chances to double their lead, with Jason Koumas firing wide from a corner and Chris Burke hitting the target after some nice work from Peter Whittingham.
Leicester finished the first half enthusiastically and were unlucky not to draw level when Martyn Waghorn’s corner found Steve Howard in the six yard box, only to have his header scrambled away by the Cardiff defence.
The Foxes exploded out of the gates in the second half, forcing Cardiff to defend in numbers as Sousa’s preferred 4-3-3 formation began to make a game changing impact.
Six minutes into the second half, Leicester deservedly drew level after a pinpoint cross by Richie Wellens found Andy King who had made an untracked run into the penalty area and duly headed the ball past Bluebirds’ goalkeeper David Marshall.
After the equaliser, it was one way traffic for the majority of the second half as the pressure mounted on Cardiff – who had not lost away from home so far this season – as Leicester continued to attack the flanks courtesy of the pace of Martyn Waghorn and Lloyd Dyer.
Dyer had a great opportunity to put Leicester ahead after Steve Howard’s knock down fell into the path of the speedy winger, but he could only hit the side netting with a shot from a tight angle.
Skipper Matt Oakley then unleashed a fierce strike through the heart of the Cardiff defence which was parried by Marshall – who then excellently tipped Martyn Waghorn’s follow-up shot around the near post.
Leicester were rewarded for their persistence with just over twenty minutes to go when Andy King netted his second of the night – and fourth of the season – with a fantastic curling strike from inside the area to put the Foxes ahead, sending the home fans into raptures.
Leicester should have made it 3-1 after a calamitous goal kick from David Marshall put Lloyd Dyer through in on goal, but his shot hit the outside of the post and went agonisingly wide.
Leicester went on to see out the win after a nerve-racking five minutes of injury time, giving Paulo Sousa his first victory of the Championship campaign and the Blue Army faithful a sense of retribution following the play-off heartbreak of last season.
Man of the Match – Andy King
The visitors took the lead in the first half when Lee Naylor’s bizarre cross-turned-shot deceived everyone - including Leicester goalkeeper Carl Ikeme who was caught off his line.
But the Foxes struck back through Andy King who made a late run into the penalty area to head home Richie Wellens’ cross.
King scored his second of the night seventeen minutes later with a superb curling strike, condemning Cardiff to their first loss of the season.
The win demonstrated that any bad memories from the end of last season when Cardiff dumped Leicester out of the play-offs on penalties had certainly been vanquished.
The match saw Martyn Waghorn’s return to the Walkers Stadium, who spent last season with Leicester on loan from Sunderland, scoring twelve goals in the process.
Cardiff – who were without the injured Michael Chopra, Craig Bellamy, Jay Bothroyd and Seyi Olofinjana – took the lead in after 26 minutes in the most bizarre circumstances.
Lee Naylor’s cross from over 40 yards out by the touchline managed to confuse everybody, including on loan goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, as it flew over his head and into the top corner.
It was very much the story of the season so far for the home side with the goal coming against the run of play, as it was Leicester that had started the stronger of the two teams.
Cardiff then took control of the match and created some good chances to double their lead, with Jason Koumas firing wide from a corner and Chris Burke hitting the target after some nice work from Peter Whittingham.
Leicester finished the first half enthusiastically and were unlucky not to draw level when Martyn Waghorn’s corner found Steve Howard in the six yard box, only to have his header scrambled away by the Cardiff defence.
The Foxes exploded out of the gates in the second half, forcing Cardiff to defend in numbers as Sousa’s preferred 4-3-3 formation began to make a game changing impact.
Six minutes into the second half, Leicester deservedly drew level after a pinpoint cross by Richie Wellens found Andy King who had made an untracked run into the penalty area and duly headed the ball past Bluebirds’ goalkeeper David Marshall.
After the equaliser, it was one way traffic for the majority of the second half as the pressure mounted on Cardiff – who had not lost away from home so far this season – as Leicester continued to attack the flanks courtesy of the pace of Martyn Waghorn and Lloyd Dyer.
Dyer had a great opportunity to put Leicester ahead after Steve Howard’s knock down fell into the path of the speedy winger, but he could only hit the side netting with a shot from a tight angle.
Skipper Matt Oakley then unleashed a fierce strike through the heart of the Cardiff defence which was parried by Marshall – who then excellently tipped Martyn Waghorn’s follow-up shot around the near post.
Leicester were rewarded for their persistence with just over twenty minutes to go when Andy King netted his second of the night – and fourth of the season – with a fantastic curling strike from inside the area to put the Foxes ahead, sending the home fans into raptures.
Leicester should have made it 3-1 after a calamitous goal kick from David Marshall put Lloyd Dyer through in on goal, but his shot hit the outside of the post and went agonisingly wide.
Leicester went on to see out the win after a nerve-racking five minutes of injury time, giving Paulo Sousa his first victory of the Championship campaign and the Blue Army faithful a sense of retribution following the play-off heartbreak of last season.
Man of the Match – Andy King
Monday 6 September 2010
Stevenage 1 - 1 Crewe Alexandra - 4th September 2010
A second half goal from Ashley Westwood was enough to earn Crewe Alexandra a deserved point against league newcomers Stevenage in a scrappy affair at the Lamex Stadium.
Yemi Odubade put the home side ahead in first half injury time, but Westwood’s equaliser ten minutes after the break brought Crewe level after a period of sustained pressure.
The momentum seemed to have shifted further towards the visitors when Stacey Long was dismissed for a foul on Mat-Mitchell King with 25 minutes remaining.
But a determined display from both defences ensured that the points were shared on the day, continuing Stevenage’s unbeaten home record.
Before the game, referee James Linington was not satisfied that Crewe’s away kit did not clash with Stevenage’s home kit, and thus the visitors were required to wear Stevenage’s all yellow away strip instead.
The first half contained very few chances for both sides, although Dario Gradi’s men will have felt aggrieved not to have found themselves ahead early on when the referee brought play back for a free kick after Clayton Donaldson was fouled, as Shaun Miller found the back of the net moments later with a long range strike – which was ruled out.
Crewe continued to push for an opener, and came close when Calvin Zola played the ball behind the Stevenage defence, but Ashley Westwood’s shot was well saved by Boro’ goalkeeper Chris Day.
It was the home side who scored first, when Stacey Long’s initial shot from distance rebounded off the woodwork, allowing the onrushing Yemi Odubade to tap the ball into an empty net, finishing off a well worked counter attacking move moments before the end of the first half.
The second half was very much a different story as Crewe came out firing on all cylinders - and were rewarded for their dominance when Ashley Westwood’s curling effort from over twenty yards hit the inside of the post and into the back of the net.
Both sides were poorly disciplined throughout the match, and Stevenage were reduced to ten men when Stacey Long was dismissed for a second bookable offence midway through the second half.
Crewe were on top for the remainder of the match, with 16 year old substitute Nick Powell forcing Chris Day to make another fine save with a long range shot.
Calvin Zola also came close for the visitors but could not find a winner, and the points were shared on the day.
Man of the Match – Mark Roberts (Stevenage)
Match highlights
Yemi Odubade put the home side ahead in first half injury time, but Westwood’s equaliser ten minutes after the break brought Crewe level after a period of sustained pressure.
The momentum seemed to have shifted further towards the visitors when Stacey Long was dismissed for a foul on Mat-Mitchell King with 25 minutes remaining.
But a determined display from both defences ensured that the points were shared on the day, continuing Stevenage’s unbeaten home record.
Before the game, referee James Linington was not satisfied that Crewe’s away kit did not clash with Stevenage’s home kit, and thus the visitors were required to wear Stevenage’s all yellow away strip instead.
The first half contained very few chances for both sides, although Dario Gradi’s men will have felt aggrieved not to have found themselves ahead early on when the referee brought play back for a free kick after Clayton Donaldson was fouled, as Shaun Miller found the back of the net moments later with a long range strike – which was ruled out.
Crewe continued to push for an opener, and came close when Calvin Zola played the ball behind the Stevenage defence, but Ashley Westwood’s shot was well saved by Boro’ goalkeeper Chris Day.
It was the home side who scored first, when Stacey Long’s initial shot from distance rebounded off the woodwork, allowing the onrushing Yemi Odubade to tap the ball into an empty net, finishing off a well worked counter attacking move moments before the end of the first half.
The second half was very much a different story as Crewe came out firing on all cylinders - and were rewarded for their dominance when Ashley Westwood’s curling effort from over twenty yards hit the inside of the post and into the back of the net.
Both sides were poorly disciplined throughout the match, and Stevenage were reduced to ten men when Stacey Long was dismissed for a second bookable offence midway through the second half.
Crewe were on top for the remainder of the match, with 16 year old substitute Nick Powell forcing Chris Day to make another fine save with a long range shot.
Calvin Zola also came close for the visitors but could not find a winner, and the points were shared on the day.
Man of the Match – Mark Roberts (Stevenage)
Match highlights
Tuesday 31 August 2010
Leicester City F.C. - New Signings
Well, I was actually expecting a little more transfer activity today from Leicester City before the window closed at 6pm. However, the only two confirmed signings so far are Yuki Abe and fan favourite Martyn Waghorn.
Here's a little bit about the two, and what fans can expect to see.
I hope to add either to this blog, or to create others in relation to it, when more signings are unveiled.
Name: Yuki Abe
Age: 28
Position: Defensive midfielder
Transfer fee: Undisclosed (although rumours suggest the fee to be around £2 million).
Last season:
Abe spent the last of his three seasons playing for Urawa Red Dragons in Japan, scoring twice in 38 appearances. He also played in one match at the 2010 World Cup
First thoughts:
A fairly unknown quantity really, but still quite an interesting prospect. Most Leicester fans will not have heard of him before as this will be the first English side Abe has played for.
Who does he replace?
No-one, although it does add fuel to the fire that certain Leicester City players might be looking to leave the club.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Abe adds an extra dimension to the starting XI with his preferred role being that of a defensive midfielder. Whilst Paulo Sousa’s new attacking style of play looks promising at times, it does leave the defence exposed at the back when the opposition counter attacks. This signing might give Andy King more freedom to push forward in midfield and support his strikers if a 4-4-2 formation is adopted.
Transfer rating: 7/10
Name: Martyn Waghorn
Age: 20
Position: Striker
Transfer fee: Undisclosed (although thought to be a fee rising to ₤3 million).
Last season:
Waghorn spent last year at Leicester City on a season long loan from Sunderland F.C. He scored twelve goals in 28 starts for the Foxes and established himself as a fan favourite. Was voted as Leicester City Young Player of the Season for 2009-2010.
First thoughts:
Almost too good to be true. The majority of Leicester fans wanted Waghorn to move on a permanent deal at the end of last season but Sunderland manager Steve Bruce made it clear that he was not for sale. However, with the Black Cats signing Ghanaian striker Asamoah Gyan for a club record fee, Waghorn made the switch back to the Walkers Stadium on a permanent deal this time.
Who does he replace?
DJ Campbell, who finally made a permanent move to Blackpool after a number of spells on loan for the Seasiders.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Waghorn has good pace, as well as exceptional strength for someone of his size. He offers a much needed goal scoring threat – an area where Leicester have struggled in so far this season. Fans will love his desire and commitment, and will be confident that the 20 year old will be able to do for Leicester what DJ Campbell never could. However, fans and players alike must be wary of putting too much pressure on young shoulders to turn Leicester’s season around in an instant. Still, Waghorn is a great player with bags of potential.
Transfer rating: 9/10
---
Like I say, I'll be adding to this over the next few days.
Here's a little bit about the two, and what fans can expect to see.
I hope to add either to this blog, or to create others in relation to it, when more signings are unveiled.
Name: Yuki Abe
Age: 28
Position: Defensive midfielder
Transfer fee: Undisclosed (although rumours suggest the fee to be around £2 million).
Last season:
Abe spent the last of his three seasons playing for Urawa Red Dragons in Japan, scoring twice in 38 appearances. He also played in one match at the 2010 World Cup
First thoughts:
A fairly unknown quantity really, but still quite an interesting prospect. Most Leicester fans will not have heard of him before as this will be the first English side Abe has played for.
Who does he replace?
No-one, although it does add fuel to the fire that certain Leicester City players might be looking to leave the club.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Abe adds an extra dimension to the starting XI with his preferred role being that of a defensive midfielder. Whilst Paulo Sousa’s new attacking style of play looks promising at times, it does leave the defence exposed at the back when the opposition counter attacks. This signing might give Andy King more freedom to push forward in midfield and support his strikers if a 4-4-2 formation is adopted.
Transfer rating: 7/10
Name: Martyn Waghorn
Age: 20
Position: Striker
Transfer fee: Undisclosed (although thought to be a fee rising to ₤3 million).
Last season:
Waghorn spent last year at Leicester City on a season long loan from Sunderland F.C. He scored twelve goals in 28 starts for the Foxes and established himself as a fan favourite. Was voted as Leicester City Young Player of the Season for 2009-2010.
First thoughts:
Almost too good to be true. The majority of Leicester fans wanted Waghorn to move on a permanent deal at the end of last season but Sunderland manager Steve Bruce made it clear that he was not for sale. However, with the Black Cats signing Ghanaian striker Asamoah Gyan for a club record fee, Waghorn made the switch back to the Walkers Stadium on a permanent deal this time.
Who does he replace?
DJ Campbell, who finally made a permanent move to Blackpool after a number of spells on loan for the Seasiders.
What can he bring to Leicester City?
Waghorn has good pace, as well as exceptional strength for someone of his size. He offers a much needed goal scoring threat – an area where Leicester have struggled in so far this season. Fans will love his desire and commitment, and will be confident that the 20 year old will be able to do for Leicester what DJ Campbell never could. However, fans and players alike must be wary of putting too much pressure on young shoulders to turn Leicester’s season around in an instant. Still, Waghorn is a great player with bags of potential.
Transfer rating: 9/10
---
Like I say, I'll be adding to this over the next few days.
Saturday 28 August 2010
Leicester City 1 - 2 Reading - 28th August 2010
A late header from defender Matt Mills was enough to give Reading their first league win of the season as they saw off hosts Leicester City at the Walkers Stadium.
Gylfi Sigurdsson struck first for the visitors before Lloyd Dyer’s fine strike put Leicester level in the second half.
But with four minutes remaining, Mills leapt above the Leicester defence to head home Brian Howard’s corner kick.
The result condemned the Foxes to their third loss in four games, leaving them with just one point – their worst start to a season in sixteen years.
Leicester started brightly with Lloyd Dyer forcing Royals’ goalkeeper Adam Federici into action early on with a mazy run and shot on target.
But the hosts seemed to fade early in the first half, allowing Reading to stamp their authority on the game, and came close with Matt Mills heading just wide for the visitors.
But Brian McDermott’s men were ahead soon after when Foxes’ defender Moreno gave away possession on the edge of the penalty area, where Gylfi Sigurdsson was on hand to chip the ball past over Leicester goalkeeper Conrad Logan.
Leicester were denied a penalty after 33 minutes when Lloyd Dyer appeared to be pulled to the ground by Reading defender Shane Cummings, after latching onto Paul Gallagher's through ball.
Shane Long should have put his side 2-0 ahead before half time when he found himself unmarked and on the end of a good ball into the penalty area, but his tame header on goal failed to really trouble the goalkeeper.
Leicester were a different side in the second half and were soon level through Lloyd Dyer’s excellent long range strike into the bottom corner.
It was no more than Dyer deserved after an excellent performance on the left wing, causing the Reading defence no end of trouble all afternoon.
At the other end, Jimmy Kebe came close for Reading shortly afterwards when the Malian international forced goalkeeper Conrad Logan into making a fantastic save after a good shot on target.
Steve Howard fired over for the Foxes with ten minutes to go, and Adam Federici was forced into action again, making a stunning save to deny Lloyd Dyer his second goal of the game after his shot was tipped around the post after a good cross from Franck Moussa.
However, the visitors eventually regained the lead against the run of play with just four minutes remaining when Matt Mills headed past Logan from a pinpoint corner kick from Brian Howard.
Leicester rallied for an equaliser in the dying minutes of the game, and came closest when Steve Howard’s effort was cleared off the line by Mills.
Andy King eventually found the back of the net for the Foxes moments later, but his strike was disallowed after substitute Matty Fryatt was adjudged to have fouled Matt Mills in the build up.
It was another day of frustration for Paulo Sousa and Leicester City, who played well for long periods and arguably deserved at least a point from the game.
But Reading hung on for a much needed three points - a result which boosted them up to thirteenth in the Championship, while Paulo Sousa’s men remain in the bottom three at this early stage of the season.
Man of the Match – Matt Mills
Gylfi Sigurdsson struck first for the visitors before Lloyd Dyer’s fine strike put Leicester level in the second half.
But with four minutes remaining, Mills leapt above the Leicester defence to head home Brian Howard’s corner kick.
The result condemned the Foxes to their third loss in four games, leaving them with just one point – their worst start to a season in sixteen years.
Leicester started brightly with Lloyd Dyer forcing Royals’ goalkeeper Adam Federici into action early on with a mazy run and shot on target.
But the hosts seemed to fade early in the first half, allowing Reading to stamp their authority on the game, and came close with Matt Mills heading just wide for the visitors.
But Brian McDermott’s men were ahead soon after when Foxes’ defender Moreno gave away possession on the edge of the penalty area, where Gylfi Sigurdsson was on hand to chip the ball past over Leicester goalkeeper Conrad Logan.
Leicester were denied a penalty after 33 minutes when Lloyd Dyer appeared to be pulled to the ground by Reading defender Shane Cummings, after latching onto Paul Gallagher's through ball.
Shane Long should have put his side 2-0 ahead before half time when he found himself unmarked and on the end of a good ball into the penalty area, but his tame header on goal failed to really trouble the goalkeeper.
Leicester were a different side in the second half and were soon level through Lloyd Dyer’s excellent long range strike into the bottom corner.
It was no more than Dyer deserved after an excellent performance on the left wing, causing the Reading defence no end of trouble all afternoon.
At the other end, Jimmy Kebe came close for Reading shortly afterwards when the Malian international forced goalkeeper Conrad Logan into making a fantastic save after a good shot on target.
Steve Howard fired over for the Foxes with ten minutes to go, and Adam Federici was forced into action again, making a stunning save to deny Lloyd Dyer his second goal of the game after his shot was tipped around the post after a good cross from Franck Moussa.
However, the visitors eventually regained the lead against the run of play with just four minutes remaining when Matt Mills headed past Logan from a pinpoint corner kick from Brian Howard.
Leicester rallied for an equaliser in the dying minutes of the game, and came closest when Steve Howard’s effort was cleared off the line by Mills.
Andy King eventually found the back of the net for the Foxes moments later, but his strike was disallowed after substitute Matty Fryatt was adjudged to have fouled Matt Mills in the build up.
It was another day of frustration for Paulo Sousa and Leicester City, who played well for long periods and arguably deserved at least a point from the game.
But Reading hung on for a much needed three points - a result which boosted them up to thirteenth in the Championship, while Paulo Sousa’s men remain in the bottom three at this early stage of the season.
Man of the Match – Matt Mills
Wednesday 18 August 2010
The Best Is Yet To Come For Leicester City This Season
Even the most optimistic fan would struggle to state that Leicester City have hit the ground running this season as they did under Nigel Pearson.
But there is reason to believe that it is just a matter of time before the results start going the right way for Paulo Sousa’s men.
One point from six is hardly a dream start for any club, regardless of their expectations at the beginning of the season. But it is important to remember that there are some huge differences this time around in the Championship for Leicester City.
First of all, nobody really expected the club to achieve what they did last season. A mid-table finish would have been acceptable, and other teams did take note of that. It allowed opposing sides to travel to Leicester looking to pick up points – unlike the club’s League One campaign when sides saw the Walkers Stadium as a fortress.
Finishing fifth last season means that teams have to respect Leicester City as a well-established Championship team. Fewer travelling sides will turn up believing that a win is a probability. It could mean that the Foxes will have a much tougher time breaking sides down and regularly picking up wins at home this year.
This is exactly why Paulo Sousa’s attacking and elegant style of football is the correct and necessary response to a potentially more conservative approach by visiting sides.
With Nigel Pearson at the helm, every player in the team had a position, and each player knew that position. But the new strategy adopted by the former Portuguese international seems to have the entire team in attack together, and all getting back to defend together.
And the players seem to love it.
It is without a doubt a livelier game plan. And after just one home game, it is clear to see that some players in particular are thriving under this new scheme. Andy King was in scintillating form against Middlesborough, playing much higher up the pitch in a notably attacking midfield role. The Welsh international was unfortunate to have a goal disallowed, as replays indicated him to be in an onside position when he picked up the through ball.
Robbie Neilson, whose Leicester career seemed all but over last season, seems to be somewhat of a revelation. Adopting the characteristics of a wing back, Neilson has already notched a goal this season (his first for Leicester and also his first in five years) as well as a fine assist against Crystal Palace on the opening day.
Steve Howard has proven he is more than just a target man. After a fantastic preseason, Howard has won the praise of his new manager - who has publicly stated he sees the veteran as his number one striker - and is as much a goal scoring threat as anyone in the side.
And last but not least, DJ Campbell. Like Neilson, Campbell’s time at Leicester seemed to be drawing to an end under Nigel Pearson, having spent two loan periods at play-off winners Blackpool. Now back at with the Foxes and in the starting eleven, Campbell seems like a man reborn. On Saturday he looked twice as fast as anyone on the pitch, and could have scored a hat-trick that afternoon.
There is an air of self-assurance throughout the entire side. The defence appears to be back to its old ways, keeping their first clean sheet of the season. The style of play is very easy on the eye. The hangover from last year’s play-off semi-final seems to have disappeared. And although the man who took Leicester there has moved on, Saturday’s match proved that the players have faith in Paulo Sousa, and the fans are genuinely excited about what they are seeing. The general impression is that when the players get it right on the pitch, they will be able to devastate other sides. And with the guarantee of further transfer funds being made available by new owner Aiyawatt Raksriaksorn, leader of Thai consortium King Power, Sousa has the opportunity to bolster his already impressive squad.
Of course, there is a long way to go this season, and there are potential potholes that could still develop – and the same can be said for any side in this competitive and challenging division. But there is a belief in this side that they can achieve something great under Paulo Sousa.
But there is reason to believe that it is just a matter of time before the results start going the right way for Paulo Sousa’s men.
One point from six is hardly a dream start for any club, regardless of their expectations at the beginning of the season. But it is important to remember that there are some huge differences this time around in the Championship for Leicester City.
First of all, nobody really expected the club to achieve what they did last season. A mid-table finish would have been acceptable, and other teams did take note of that. It allowed opposing sides to travel to Leicester looking to pick up points – unlike the club’s League One campaign when sides saw the Walkers Stadium as a fortress.
Finishing fifth last season means that teams have to respect Leicester City as a well-established Championship team. Fewer travelling sides will turn up believing that a win is a probability. It could mean that the Foxes will have a much tougher time breaking sides down and regularly picking up wins at home this year.
This is exactly why Paulo Sousa’s attacking and elegant style of football is the correct and necessary response to a potentially more conservative approach by visiting sides.
With Nigel Pearson at the helm, every player in the team had a position, and each player knew that position. But the new strategy adopted by the former Portuguese international seems to have the entire team in attack together, and all getting back to defend together.
And the players seem to love it.
It is without a doubt a livelier game plan. And after just one home game, it is clear to see that some players in particular are thriving under this new scheme. Andy King was in scintillating form against Middlesborough, playing much higher up the pitch in a notably attacking midfield role. The Welsh international was unfortunate to have a goal disallowed, as replays indicated him to be in an onside position when he picked up the through ball.
Robbie Neilson, whose Leicester career seemed all but over last season, seems to be somewhat of a revelation. Adopting the characteristics of a wing back, Neilson has already notched a goal this season (his first for Leicester and also his first in five years) as well as a fine assist against Crystal Palace on the opening day.
Steve Howard has proven he is more than just a target man. After a fantastic preseason, Howard has won the praise of his new manager - who has publicly stated he sees the veteran as his number one striker - and is as much a goal scoring threat as anyone in the side.
And last but not least, DJ Campbell. Like Neilson, Campbell’s time at Leicester seemed to be drawing to an end under Nigel Pearson, having spent two loan periods at play-off winners Blackpool. Now back at with the Foxes and in the starting eleven, Campbell seems like a man reborn. On Saturday he looked twice as fast as anyone on the pitch, and could have scored a hat-trick that afternoon.
There is an air of self-assurance throughout the entire side. The defence appears to be back to its old ways, keeping their first clean sheet of the season. The style of play is very easy on the eye. The hangover from last year’s play-off semi-final seems to have disappeared. And although the man who took Leicester there has moved on, Saturday’s match proved that the players have faith in Paulo Sousa, and the fans are genuinely excited about what they are seeing. The general impression is that when the players get it right on the pitch, they will be able to devastate other sides. And with the guarantee of further transfer funds being made available by new owner Aiyawatt Raksriaksorn, leader of Thai consortium King Power, Sousa has the opportunity to bolster his already impressive squad.
Of course, there is a long way to go this season, and there are potential potholes that could still develop – and the same can be said for any side in this competitive and challenging division. But there is a belief in this side that they can achieve something great under Paulo Sousa.
Saturday 14 August 2010
Leicester 0 - 0 Middlesborough - 14th August 2010
Leicester and Middlesborough both picked up their first points of the season this afternoon in an entertaining goalless draw at the Walkers Stadium.
Both sides squandered decent opportunities to win their first league game of the new Championship campaign, with Leicester executing a fantastic attacking display under the guise of new manager Paulo Sousa.
But a fine string of saves from goalkeeper Jason Steele kept Middlesborough from going behind in the early stages.
Leicester were looking for their third consecutive victory against Gordon Strachan’s men, having beaten Middlesborough twice in the league last season.
DJ Campbell, who had spent two loan periods at Blackpool over the last two years after falling out of favour with former Leicester manager Nigel Pearson, came close for the Foxes early on when his strong shot on goal was deflected over the bar.
From the ensuring corner, Andy King rattled the crossbar with a powerful header as Leicester continued to push for an opening goal.
At the other end of the pitch, Kris Boyd – recently signed from Rangers – appeared to be through on goal, but was thwarted by an excellent sliding tackle from Jack Hobbs before he could force goalkeeper Chris Weale into making a save.
Leicester continued to look threatening from set pieces as DJ Campbell’s long range free kick was tipped over the bar by Jason Steele.
Campbell then became the provider, playing Andy King through on goal who appeared to have scored his third goal in the space of a week – only for the linesman to rule it offside.
In the second half, Middlesborough started strongly as Nicky Bailey’s free kick was well saved by Chris Weale, but it was the home side again creating clearer cut chances to score as DJ Campbell’s header from an excellent Lloyd Dyer cross failed to hit the target after some excellent build up play from Robbie Neilson.
Moments later, Steve Howard’s curling effort was tipped round the post by Jason Steele.
As the game drew to a close, Middlesborough were unfortunate not to sneak a winner when Scott McDonald’s low drive was excellently saved by Chris Weale.
Leicester will feel as if they did enough to win the match, but in the end, both sides had to settle for a point, leaving both Paulo Sousa and Gordon Strachan looking for their first league win of the season.
Man of the Match – Robbie Neilson
Both sides squandered decent opportunities to win their first league game of the new Championship campaign, with Leicester executing a fantastic attacking display under the guise of new manager Paulo Sousa.
But a fine string of saves from goalkeeper Jason Steele kept Middlesborough from going behind in the early stages.
Leicester were looking for their third consecutive victory against Gordon Strachan’s men, having beaten Middlesborough twice in the league last season.
DJ Campbell, who had spent two loan periods at Blackpool over the last two years after falling out of favour with former Leicester manager Nigel Pearson, came close for the Foxes early on when his strong shot on goal was deflected over the bar.
From the ensuring corner, Andy King rattled the crossbar with a powerful header as Leicester continued to push for an opening goal.
At the other end of the pitch, Kris Boyd – recently signed from Rangers – appeared to be through on goal, but was thwarted by an excellent sliding tackle from Jack Hobbs before he could force goalkeeper Chris Weale into making a save.
Leicester continued to look threatening from set pieces as DJ Campbell’s long range free kick was tipped over the bar by Jason Steele.
Campbell then became the provider, playing Andy King through on goal who appeared to have scored his third goal in the space of a week – only for the linesman to rule it offside.
In the second half, Middlesborough started strongly as Nicky Bailey’s free kick was well saved by Chris Weale, but it was the home side again creating clearer cut chances to score as DJ Campbell’s header from an excellent Lloyd Dyer cross failed to hit the target after some excellent build up play from Robbie Neilson.
Moments later, Steve Howard’s curling effort was tipped round the post by Jason Steele.
As the game drew to a close, Middlesborough were unfortunate not to sneak a winner when Scott McDonald’s low drive was excellently saved by Chris Weale.
Leicester will feel as if they did enough to win the match, but in the end, both sides had to settle for a point, leaving both Paulo Sousa and Gordon Strachan looking for their first league win of the season.
Man of the Match – Robbie Neilson
Tuesday 27 July 2010
DJ Campbell: Villain Turned Hero?
Why the only person at Leicester City under as much pressure as Paulo Sousa has the chance to fire this club into the Premier League...
Football is a fickle sport. Most of the time, you’re only as good as your last game. It’s also true that following a successful season, anything less than that the year after often seems disappointing.
Now, it’s difficult to criticise the season that Leicester City had last year. Finishing fifth in the Championship and narrowly missing out on a play-off final appearance was an outstanding achievement that exceeded most people’s expectations, bearing in mind this team was in League One the year before. But one thing that seemed to be lacking was a prolific goal scorer; someone who could get you twenty goals or more in a season.
Enter DJ Campbell?
First of all, I do not doubt any of the strikers at Leicester City. Matty Fryatt was unstoppable in League One, but unfortunately missed around three months of last season after suffering a broken jaw against Doncaster Rovers in February. Steve Howard is constantly a huge presence who can change the face of any game - as was demonstrated in the play-off semi-final second leg at Cardiff City. Paul Gallagher is arguably the most skillful and talented attacking player at Leicester City, although he was played out of position most of last year and looks likely to adopt an attacking midfielder role this season. And, unfortunately, Sunderland were unwilling to sell or loan Martyn Waghorn after a terrific year with the Foxes, which led to him being voted Leicester City’s Young Player of the Year
Secondly, please don’t count this as me jumping on the bandwagon. Like many Leicester fans, I remember the three dismal years Campbell spent with this club. Four goals in 38 games is a terrible scoring record for any striker. I also remember Campbell begging Leicester not to obstruct a “dream move” to Blackpool – the side he helped to gain promotion to the top flight of English football, scoring eleven goals in eighteen games during his time at Bloomfield Road, including a hat-trick against Nottingham Forest in the play-offs.
When talks between Leicester and Blackpool over Campbell broke down due to financial disagreements, there were still strong rumours circulating regarding his future, and that other clubs had shown interest in him – most likely to the delight of Leicester fans. But when Nigel Pearson left the club, with Paulo Sousa being appointed, it became apparent that Campbell may well be staying put.
Sousa still had the option to consider a transfer, but instead he has given DJ an opportunity for a fresh start. While it might be difficult to get too excited about something like that, it’s clear to see that Campbell has certainly impressed the new manager. Four goals in four games in preseason – albeit against, for the most part, lesser opponents - speaks for itself.
All of a sudden, there’s an air of excitement regarding DJ Campbell, and the prospect of what he can do to help Leicester City. Whilst this is perhaps overoptimistic right now, it’s very easy to see why people are now anticipating the opening day of the season more than ever. To some extent, it feels as if Campbell is a new signing. And with the support Paulo Sousa, there’s a chance he could feature in the starting eleven on August 7 against Crystal Palace – a wildly different scenario than last season when Campbell rarely even made it to the substitutes’ bench.
The unfortunate situation is, however, that if DJ Campbell is to remain at Leicester, then he will be under just as much pressure as Paulo Sousa this season – perhaps even more so. He has the huge challenge of winning back the fans of a club he effectively turned his back on when he voiced his desire to move on. The only way he can do that is by scoring the goals that will guide Leicester City towards another promotion push. An extra twenty goals next season might be the difference between a mid-table finish and a play-off spot – or between a play-off spot and automatic promotion.
There is still more than enough talent in this Leicester side to achieve above and beyond last season’s accomplishments. But if DJ Campbell leads this side to glory, it’ll be one of the biggest turnarounds this club has ever seen.
Football is a fickle sport. Most of the time, you’re only as good as your last game. It’s also true that following a successful season, anything less than that the year after often seems disappointing.
Now, it’s difficult to criticise the season that Leicester City had last year. Finishing fifth in the Championship and narrowly missing out on a play-off final appearance was an outstanding achievement that exceeded most people’s expectations, bearing in mind this team was in League One the year before. But one thing that seemed to be lacking was a prolific goal scorer; someone who could get you twenty goals or more in a season.
Enter DJ Campbell?
First of all, I do not doubt any of the strikers at Leicester City. Matty Fryatt was unstoppable in League One, but unfortunately missed around three months of last season after suffering a broken jaw against Doncaster Rovers in February. Steve Howard is constantly a huge presence who can change the face of any game - as was demonstrated in the play-off semi-final second leg at Cardiff City. Paul Gallagher is arguably the most skillful and talented attacking player at Leicester City, although he was played out of position most of last year and looks likely to adopt an attacking midfielder role this season. And, unfortunately, Sunderland were unwilling to sell or loan Martyn Waghorn after a terrific year with the Foxes, which led to him being voted Leicester City’s Young Player of the Year
Secondly, please don’t count this as me jumping on the bandwagon. Like many Leicester fans, I remember the three dismal years Campbell spent with this club. Four goals in 38 games is a terrible scoring record for any striker. I also remember Campbell begging Leicester not to obstruct a “dream move” to Blackpool – the side he helped to gain promotion to the top flight of English football, scoring eleven goals in eighteen games during his time at Bloomfield Road, including a hat-trick against Nottingham Forest in the play-offs.
When talks between Leicester and Blackpool over Campbell broke down due to financial disagreements, there were still strong rumours circulating regarding his future, and that other clubs had shown interest in him – most likely to the delight of Leicester fans. But when Nigel Pearson left the club, with Paulo Sousa being appointed, it became apparent that Campbell may well be staying put.
Sousa still had the option to consider a transfer, but instead he has given DJ an opportunity for a fresh start. While it might be difficult to get too excited about something like that, it’s clear to see that Campbell has certainly impressed the new manager. Four goals in four games in preseason – albeit against, for the most part, lesser opponents - speaks for itself.
All of a sudden, there’s an air of excitement regarding DJ Campbell, and the prospect of what he can do to help Leicester City. Whilst this is perhaps overoptimistic right now, it’s very easy to see why people are now anticipating the opening day of the season more than ever. To some extent, it feels as if Campbell is a new signing. And with the support Paulo Sousa, there’s a chance he could feature in the starting eleven on August 7 against Crystal Palace – a wildly different scenario than last season when Campbell rarely even made it to the substitutes’ bench.
The unfortunate situation is, however, that if DJ Campbell is to remain at Leicester, then he will be under just as much pressure as Paulo Sousa this season – perhaps even more so. He has the huge challenge of winning back the fans of a club he effectively turned his back on when he voiced his desire to move on. The only way he can do that is by scoring the goals that will guide Leicester City towards another promotion push. An extra twenty goals next season might be the difference between a mid-table finish and a play-off spot – or between a play-off spot and automatic promotion.
There is still more than enough talent in this Leicester side to achieve above and beyond last season’s accomplishments. But if DJ Campbell leads this side to glory, it’ll be one of the biggest turnarounds this club has ever seen.
Tuesday 13 July 2010
Why Leicester City Fans Should Not Get Carried Away...Just Yet
First of all, don’t get me wrong. I like Paulo Sousa. From a mutual standpoint, it’s difficult not to. He was a great footballer for a number of top European clubs during the 1990s, his playing career epitomised by being remembered as one of Portugal’s ‘Golden Generation’.
I also think that after Nigel Pearson left to take the job at Hull City, Sousa was one of only a handful of managers who would not have been labelled as a ‘step down’, yet still being an achievable target for Leicester.
This isn’t really about Paulo Sousa. This is more the view of a Leicester fan who has seen managers pass in and out of the revolving door that has been the Walkers Stadium over the last three years. This is more the view of a Leicester fan who has witnessed the recent good times as well as the bad. I still remember the feeling of relegation to League One. I still remember Leicester being 3-2 up at Stamford Bridge in the Carling Cup. I remember Steve Howard’s injury time header against Leeds on that Easter Monday and, of course, I remember last season’s play-off semi-final heartbreak. Life is never dull as a Leicester City fan.
This may sound terribly pessimistic, but I’m still not sold on Paulo Sousa. And I think it’s far too early for any of us to be getting too carried away.
When Martin Allen was named as the new manager of Leicester City in 2008, a lot of people believed this was a great decision by Milan Mandaric. Allen had that ‘Mad Dog’ reputation. He had a fiery persona and an apparent knack for getting the best out of his players. Fans liked this choice. Four games later, his contracted was terminated by mutual consent, as his relationship with the chairman soon broke down. People started to question what the problem was.
Fast forward to November of that year. Ian Holloway was appointed as the new manager following a few months of turmoil within the hot seat. Again, fans were pleased with this decision. Having had previous impressive stints with QPR and Plymouth Argyle, he looked like the man who could turn our disappointing season around.
We all know what happened after that.
When Nigel Pearson was appointed in June 2008, it was difficult to get too excited. He had previously been replaced as Southampton manager despite saving them from relegation on the last day of the season (at the expense of Leicester, as we all remember). Lacking charisma and character, fans didn’t really know what to expect. From the opening day of the League One season against MK Dons, we soon realised that Pearson was the man who could take this club forward. Leicester City were top of the league by November and never looked back. Last season, the team carried on where it left off and achieved its highest finish in the Championship for a long time. It was another successful year.
Pearson leaving was certainly a bombshell. The way Mandaric seemed to handle the situation showed good character in bringing a new manager in time for pre-season training. But Leicester fans should not be carried away with Sousa. With players being transferred in and out, it is difficult to know how things will pan out next season. He has impressed people with what he has said so far in press conferences and within the media, but it is important that this confidence is reflected on the pitch.
Football managers must always feel the pressure. For Sousa, the pressure will be on right from the start. Expectations are very high for this club. There is a reason for optimism.
I do believe the future is bright for Leicester City. The foundations laid by Nigel Pearson and his backroom staff during his two years as manager brought a level of stability to this club not witnessed by fans since the days of Martin O’Neill. There is a fantastic mix of raw talented youth and level-headed experience within this squad to challenge for the playoffs once again. But therein lies the problem; Leicester City fans will expect this based on last two seasons. Paulo Sousa has asked for the fans to ‘give him time’. But will he have as much time as he needs? What happens if the results don’t come instantly? What happens if Leicester City are fourteenth in the Championship in January?
Sousa has the potential to bring a new style of football to this club. Let’s just hope he’s around long enough for us to see it.
I also think that after Nigel Pearson left to take the job at Hull City, Sousa was one of only a handful of managers who would not have been labelled as a ‘step down’, yet still being an achievable target for Leicester.
This isn’t really about Paulo Sousa. This is more the view of a Leicester fan who has seen managers pass in and out of the revolving door that has been the Walkers Stadium over the last three years. This is more the view of a Leicester fan who has witnessed the recent good times as well as the bad. I still remember the feeling of relegation to League One. I still remember Leicester being 3-2 up at Stamford Bridge in the Carling Cup. I remember Steve Howard’s injury time header against Leeds on that Easter Monday and, of course, I remember last season’s play-off semi-final heartbreak. Life is never dull as a Leicester City fan.
This may sound terribly pessimistic, but I’m still not sold on Paulo Sousa. And I think it’s far too early for any of us to be getting too carried away.
When Martin Allen was named as the new manager of Leicester City in 2008, a lot of people believed this was a great decision by Milan Mandaric. Allen had that ‘Mad Dog’ reputation. He had a fiery persona and an apparent knack for getting the best out of his players. Fans liked this choice. Four games later, his contracted was terminated by mutual consent, as his relationship with the chairman soon broke down. People started to question what the problem was.
Fast forward to November of that year. Ian Holloway was appointed as the new manager following a few months of turmoil within the hot seat. Again, fans were pleased with this decision. Having had previous impressive stints with QPR and Plymouth Argyle, he looked like the man who could turn our disappointing season around.
We all know what happened after that.
When Nigel Pearson was appointed in June 2008, it was difficult to get too excited. He had previously been replaced as Southampton manager despite saving them from relegation on the last day of the season (at the expense of Leicester, as we all remember). Lacking charisma and character, fans didn’t really know what to expect. From the opening day of the League One season against MK Dons, we soon realised that Pearson was the man who could take this club forward. Leicester City were top of the league by November and never looked back. Last season, the team carried on where it left off and achieved its highest finish in the Championship for a long time. It was another successful year.
Pearson leaving was certainly a bombshell. The way Mandaric seemed to handle the situation showed good character in bringing a new manager in time for pre-season training. But Leicester fans should not be carried away with Sousa. With players being transferred in and out, it is difficult to know how things will pan out next season. He has impressed people with what he has said so far in press conferences and within the media, but it is important that this confidence is reflected on the pitch.
Football managers must always feel the pressure. For Sousa, the pressure will be on right from the start. Expectations are very high for this club. There is a reason for optimism.
I do believe the future is bright for Leicester City. The foundations laid by Nigel Pearson and his backroom staff during his two years as manager brought a level of stability to this club not witnessed by fans since the days of Martin O’Neill. There is a fantastic mix of raw talented youth and level-headed experience within this squad to challenge for the playoffs once again. But therein lies the problem; Leicester City fans will expect this based on last two seasons. Paulo Sousa has asked for the fans to ‘give him time’. But will he have as much time as he needs? What happens if the results don’t come instantly? What happens if Leicester City are fourteenth in the Championship in January?
Sousa has the potential to bring a new style of football to this club. Let’s just hope he’s around long enough for us to see it.
Monday 12 July 2010
World Cup 2010 - Final Thoughts
First of all, congratulations to Spain for winning World Cup 2010. Certainly the most improved team over the course of the tournament, and deserving winners on the night.
A friend of mine suggested I should do something a little different for my final blog after the World Cup was over. That being noted, I'm not going to spend too much time analysing the final; it wasn't a fantastic game, but Spain were the better side despite Holland (who should have had at least two players sent off) having more clear cut chances to win the game. This is more a look back at the tournament as a whole and my thoughts in respect of that.
- Two players who have really impressed me this tournament are Uruguay's Luis Suarez and Germany's Thomas Müeller. Both played incredibly important roles in helping their respective teams reach the semi-finals. Aged 23 and 20 respectively, the best is certainly yet to come for both players.
- Remember when everyone questioned Alex Ferguson after Diego Forlán was more or less a bust at Manchester United? I think we can all take that back. It's no secret that Forlán has been prolific at both Villareal and Althetico Madrid since moving on, but his goalscoring record at international level is excellent as well. He has had a fantastic tournament and was a vital part in Uruguay reaching the semi-finals. Winning the Golden Ball epitomised this.
- England and France; take note from the best team in the world. This is how you should be performing. It's not always just about picking the best individuals from the best clubs and hoping that they work well together, because it rarely does. It's about picking the best team. Did it never occur that Peter Crouch and Jermaine Defoe up front in one game might just have worked, seeing as they play together for Tottenham week in week out? Just something to think about.
- When we think about the South American teams, we should think further than Argentina and Brazil (and even Uruguay) from now on. Every team from South America who made it to the World Cup reached at least the last sixteen. We saw some sintilating football from the lesser known teams such as Chile, Paraguay and Mexico. I don't believe in the coincidence of a similar climate; this continent includes some of the best up and coming international sides in the world today. World Cup 2014 is bound to highlight this.
- On the opposite end of the spectrum, it was disappointing to witness so many of the African nations performing so badly in this tournament. Other than Ghana (and to some extent, South Africa), most teams underachieved massively. I anticipated teams like Nigeria and the Ivory Coast pushing harder to reach the second round. Having said that, the way that all of South Africa/Africa/the World rallied for Ghana in the quarter-final was fantastic to see.
- Was there a better goal in this tournament than the one scored by Giovanni van Bronckhorst against Uruguay? I know he has a good left foot, but the composure and technique to hit a ball that well from 35 plus yards is quite outstanding - especially for a full back. Carlos Tevez's strike against Mexico gets an honourable mention too.
- I'd say, on a whole, that South Africa did a good job in hosting this tournament. There were a few issues at the start, as well as the general concern of crime in certain areas, but this was a fantastic occasion for the people of this country. Although there were times when stadiums weren't 100 percent full, you could still tell that people were genuinely appreciative to be there.
- You have to feel for Miroslav Klose. Needing only one goal to tie Ronaldo's record of fifteen goals, thereby becoming the joint top goalscorer in World Cup history, he missed the third place play off due to injury. It's unlikely he will ever get another chance to play at a World Cup now. That's going to hurt.
- After watching this World Cup, three players I'd like to see in the Premier League in the next season or two: Mesut Özil (Germany), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana) and Keisuke Honda (Japan). These are all potential stars in the making. I was going to mention Paraguay's Cristian Riveros as well, but he signed for Sunderland earlier on in the summer.
Anyway, I think that's about it for now. Thanks for reading my thoughts on the World Cup; I'll be focusing primarily on Premier League and Championship football over the next few months, doing a few match reviews on my beloved Leicester City in the process. As always, your thoughts are appreciated.
A friend of mine suggested I should do something a little different for my final blog after the World Cup was over. That being noted, I'm not going to spend too much time analysing the final; it wasn't a fantastic game, but Spain were the better side despite Holland (who should have had at least two players sent off) having more clear cut chances to win the game. This is more a look back at the tournament as a whole and my thoughts in respect of that.
- Two players who have really impressed me this tournament are Uruguay's Luis Suarez and Germany's Thomas Müeller. Both played incredibly important roles in helping their respective teams reach the semi-finals. Aged 23 and 20 respectively, the best is certainly yet to come for both players.
- Remember when everyone questioned Alex Ferguson after Diego Forlán was more or less a bust at Manchester United? I think we can all take that back. It's no secret that Forlán has been prolific at both Villareal and Althetico Madrid since moving on, but his goalscoring record at international level is excellent as well. He has had a fantastic tournament and was a vital part in Uruguay reaching the semi-finals. Winning the Golden Ball epitomised this.
- England and France; take note from the best team in the world. This is how you should be performing. It's not always just about picking the best individuals from the best clubs and hoping that they work well together, because it rarely does. It's about picking the best team. Did it never occur that Peter Crouch and Jermaine Defoe up front in one game might just have worked, seeing as they play together for Tottenham week in week out? Just something to think about.
- When we think about the South American teams, we should think further than Argentina and Brazil (and even Uruguay) from now on. Every team from South America who made it to the World Cup reached at least the last sixteen. We saw some sintilating football from the lesser known teams such as Chile, Paraguay and Mexico. I don't believe in the coincidence of a similar climate; this continent includes some of the best up and coming international sides in the world today. World Cup 2014 is bound to highlight this.
- On the opposite end of the spectrum, it was disappointing to witness so many of the African nations performing so badly in this tournament. Other than Ghana (and to some extent, South Africa), most teams underachieved massively. I anticipated teams like Nigeria and the Ivory Coast pushing harder to reach the second round. Having said that, the way that all of South Africa/Africa/the World rallied for Ghana in the quarter-final was fantastic to see.
- Was there a better goal in this tournament than the one scored by Giovanni van Bronckhorst against Uruguay? I know he has a good left foot, but the composure and technique to hit a ball that well from 35 plus yards is quite outstanding - especially for a full back. Carlos Tevez's strike against Mexico gets an honourable mention too.
- I'd say, on a whole, that South Africa did a good job in hosting this tournament. There were a few issues at the start, as well as the general concern of crime in certain areas, but this was a fantastic occasion for the people of this country. Although there were times when stadiums weren't 100 percent full, you could still tell that people were genuinely appreciative to be there.
- You have to feel for Miroslav Klose. Needing only one goal to tie Ronaldo's record of fifteen goals, thereby becoming the joint top goalscorer in World Cup history, he missed the third place play off due to injury. It's unlikely he will ever get another chance to play at a World Cup now. That's going to hurt.
- After watching this World Cup, three players I'd like to see in the Premier League in the next season or two: Mesut Özil (Germany), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana) and Keisuke Honda (Japan). These are all potential stars in the making. I was going to mention Paraguay's Cristian Riveros as well, but he signed for Sunderland earlier on in the summer.
Anyway, I think that's about it for now. Thanks for reading my thoughts on the World Cup; I'll be focusing primarily on Premier League and Championship football over the next few months, doing a few match reviews on my beloved Leicester City in the process. As always, your thoughts are appreciated.
Saturday 10 July 2010
World Cup 2010 - World Cup Final Preview
I've said it before; I'm not great at predicting the outcomes of games. My bet365 account history will tell you that. However, the World Cup final between Holland and Spain is a very interesting match up, and so it's worth looking into it a little further.
Here's my breakdown of the final:
History
Spain
Although Spain were the winners of Euro 2008, this is their first visit to the final of this tournament. Their previous best finish in the World Cup was a fourth place finish in a round robin tournament in 1950, as no official final was held.
Holland
Also considered as one of the best teams never to have won the World Cup, the Dutch finished as runners-up in 1974 and 1978, losing to West Germany and Argentina respectively. Holland's last major tournament success was winning Euro 1988, defeating the Soviet Union 2-0.
Form
Spain
Under coach Vicente del Bosque, Spain have only failed to win four of their last 54 games. They won all their games in qualifying for the World Cup, and have won their last five in this tournament, despite losing their opening game against Switzerland 1-0.
Holland
A 25 game unbeaten run and a 100 percent qualifying record puts them in good stead for a tough final. Holland have scored twelve times in six games in this tournament, finding the back of the net in each of those games.
How they line up
It's possible that Fernando Torres will start his second game in a row on the bench for Spain after a disappointing tournament so far, with Barcelona's youth star Pedro likely to play alongside David Villa. Gregory van der Wiel and and Nigel de Jong are expected to be recalled to the Dutch side, after both missing the semi-final against Uruguay.
How they match up
Interestingly, these two teams have never met at the World Cup before. If Pedro does start for Spain, seven of the starting eleven are Barcelona players. This familiarity will be beneficial for them. Carlos Puyol and Gerard Piqué will have their hands full as Holland like to push forward with Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben.
Who has the edge?
I've got to go with Spain in this one. The reason for this is because this team has improved in every game they've played in this tournament, and Holland haven't really hit top gear yet. Spain are going to make it very difficult for Holland to do this in the final. David Villa has been excellent in this tournament, and the midfield was suffocating against Germany. Whilst Sneijder poses a huge threat for Holland, the depth possessed by Spain in the form of Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets will be tough to break down. Cesc Fabregas and David Silva are strong options off the bench, too. I think the midfield is where this game will be won and lost. Holland must get Dirk Kuyt and Robin Van Persie more involved and threaten that Spanish defence. It will be close, and extra-time may come into it, but I can see Spain lifting the trophy on Sunday.
So, me and Paul the psychic octopus agree. I can sleep soundly tonight now. Your thoughts, predictions and comments are appreciated. Here's hoping for a great final tomorrow night.
P.S. - My blog can now be found at SportsBlogs.org, which is well worth checking out if you're interested in writing your own blog, or reading others.
(Shameless plug over)
Here's my breakdown of the final:
History
Spain
Although Spain were the winners of Euro 2008, this is their first visit to the final of this tournament. Their previous best finish in the World Cup was a fourth place finish in a round robin tournament in 1950, as no official final was held.
Holland
Also considered as one of the best teams never to have won the World Cup, the Dutch finished as runners-up in 1974 and 1978, losing to West Germany and Argentina respectively. Holland's last major tournament success was winning Euro 1988, defeating the Soviet Union 2-0.
Form
Spain
Under coach Vicente del Bosque, Spain have only failed to win four of their last 54 games. They won all their games in qualifying for the World Cup, and have won their last five in this tournament, despite losing their opening game against Switzerland 1-0.
Holland
A 25 game unbeaten run and a 100 percent qualifying record puts them in good stead for a tough final. Holland have scored twelve times in six games in this tournament, finding the back of the net in each of those games.
How they line up
It's possible that Fernando Torres will start his second game in a row on the bench for Spain after a disappointing tournament so far, with Barcelona's youth star Pedro likely to play alongside David Villa. Gregory van der Wiel and and Nigel de Jong are expected to be recalled to the Dutch side, after both missing the semi-final against Uruguay.
How they match up
Interestingly, these two teams have never met at the World Cup before. If Pedro does start for Spain, seven of the starting eleven are Barcelona players. This familiarity will be beneficial for them. Carlos Puyol and Gerard Piqué will have their hands full as Holland like to push forward with Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben.
Who has the edge?
I've got to go with Spain in this one. The reason for this is because this team has improved in every game they've played in this tournament, and Holland haven't really hit top gear yet. Spain are going to make it very difficult for Holland to do this in the final. David Villa has been excellent in this tournament, and the midfield was suffocating against Germany. Whilst Sneijder poses a huge threat for Holland, the depth possessed by Spain in the form of Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets will be tough to break down. Cesc Fabregas and David Silva are strong options off the bench, too. I think the midfield is where this game will be won and lost. Holland must get Dirk Kuyt and Robin Van Persie more involved and threaten that Spanish defence. It will be close, and extra-time may come into it, but I can see Spain lifting the trophy on Sunday.
So, me and Paul the psychic octopus agree. I can sleep soundly tonight now. Your thoughts, predictions and comments are appreciated. Here's hoping for a great final tomorrow night.
P.S. - My blog can now be found at SportsBlogs.org, which is well worth checking out if you're interested in writing your own blog, or reading others.
(Shameless plug over)
Thursday 8 July 2010
World Cup 2010 - Semi-Finals
After weeks of having three televised games of international football a day, it almost feels unnatural when there are no World Cup games being played. Fortunately, the two semi-finals were both excellent, and although many of the 'bigger' European sides were eliminated in the group stages or last sixteen, the stage is set for either Holland or Spain to win the World Cup for the first time in history.
Here are my thoughts on the two semi-finals:
Uruguay 2-3 Netherlands
It’s funny how things can change so quickly in the world of football. Holland were the better team on the night, although they still never looked completely in control of things – a scenario which has plagued the Dutch throughout this tournament. Giovanni van Bronckhorst put his side ahead after eighteen minutes with an unstoppable 35 yard strike which will probably go down as the goal of the tournament (in case you missed it, you can see it again here). Uruguay looked a little flustered after that, and with Luis Suarez suspended, the burden was very much on Diego Forlan to take charge in front of goal for Uruguay – which of course isn’t a bad alternative. He did just that, four minutes before half time, with a wonderful strike which curled away from the Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg. At this point in the game, the momentum seemed to have shifted towards Uruguay, and although the second half was ultimately less eventful to begin with, the game could have gone either way. Two second half goals by Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder eventually put the game to bed, despite an injury time strike from Maxi Pereira giving the Dutch bench a few nervous moments.
The thing that worries me about this Holland team is that they still haven’t played as well as they could, and should, have done in this World Cup. On the other side of the argument, Holland played as well as they could, and should, have done in this World Cup and reached the final. They still need to up their game and show more quality as a team. The defence is good, but they haven’t been tested by a team as strong in attack as Spain. Holland are clearly a good side, but they need to be better than that to win on Sunday. As for Uruguay, they have been a thoroughly enjoyable side to watch over the last few weeks. If Luis Suarez was available in this game, I think he could have made a real difference. I suspect he may be linked with a few Premier League clubs in July and August.
Germany 0-1 Spain
This one had a completely different preface than the first semi-final. In the last five games, Germany have probably been the best footballing side in the World Cup (despite a surprise 1-0 loss to Serbia in the group stages), scoring four goals three times. Spain, on the other hand, have probably been the most improved side in the tournament, after losing their opening group match to Switzerland. So something had to give. Carlos Puyol made sure it wasn’t his side. His bullet header in the 73rd minute ensured Spain made it to their second major final in three years, and denying Germany any revenge for defeating them in the Euro 2008 final.
I’d say that Spain have vastly improved since the beginning of the tournament, but that would be a huge understatement. When they played their opening game against Switzerland, they lacked creativity and the ability to break teams down. They struggled against a solid defence and even looked shaky at the back themselves. These are all things we don’t associate with Spain as a football team – especially when seven of the starting eleven play for Barcelona, and three more play for Real Madrid. Whatever Vicente del Bosque has told his team after that game, it certainly had a huge impact. This Spanish side has improved in every game played, and against Germany they were outstanding – especially in the second half. The defending is solid, the midfield is showing more ingenuity and David Villa is still a massive threat. This is all without Fernando Torres playing well. They will trouble Holland in every department this Sunday. As for Germany, they never really got going in this one. Did the loss of Thomas Müller hurt them that much? Key players like Bastian Schweinsteiger also didn’t play to their full potential. The midfield couldn't keep control of the ball for long enough. They kept it close until the second half, but Spain were always the better side. Being eliminated at this stage has to be a massive disappointment after playing so well in the last few games.
As the World Cup draws to an end, so does my World Cup blog. I’ll be writing about the final at the weekend, as well as the third place play-off, and looking back at some of the more memorable moments of this tournament. Here’s hoping for a great final, and of course, your thoughts and comments are appreciated.
Here are my thoughts on the two semi-finals:
Uruguay 2-3 Netherlands
It’s funny how things can change so quickly in the world of football. Holland were the better team on the night, although they still never looked completely in control of things – a scenario which has plagued the Dutch throughout this tournament. Giovanni van Bronckhorst put his side ahead after eighteen minutes with an unstoppable 35 yard strike which will probably go down as the goal of the tournament (in case you missed it, you can see it again here). Uruguay looked a little flustered after that, and with Luis Suarez suspended, the burden was very much on Diego Forlan to take charge in front of goal for Uruguay – which of course isn’t a bad alternative. He did just that, four minutes before half time, with a wonderful strike which curled away from the Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg. At this point in the game, the momentum seemed to have shifted towards Uruguay, and although the second half was ultimately less eventful to begin with, the game could have gone either way. Two second half goals by Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder eventually put the game to bed, despite an injury time strike from Maxi Pereira giving the Dutch bench a few nervous moments.
The thing that worries me about this Holland team is that they still haven’t played as well as they could, and should, have done in this World Cup. On the other side of the argument, Holland played as well as they could, and should, have done in this World Cup and reached the final. They still need to up their game and show more quality as a team. The defence is good, but they haven’t been tested by a team as strong in attack as Spain. Holland are clearly a good side, but they need to be better than that to win on Sunday. As for Uruguay, they have been a thoroughly enjoyable side to watch over the last few weeks. If Luis Suarez was available in this game, I think he could have made a real difference. I suspect he may be linked with a few Premier League clubs in July and August.
Germany 0-1 Spain
This one had a completely different preface than the first semi-final. In the last five games, Germany have probably been the best footballing side in the World Cup (despite a surprise 1-0 loss to Serbia in the group stages), scoring four goals three times. Spain, on the other hand, have probably been the most improved side in the tournament, after losing their opening group match to Switzerland. So something had to give. Carlos Puyol made sure it wasn’t his side. His bullet header in the 73rd minute ensured Spain made it to their second major final in three years, and denying Germany any revenge for defeating them in the Euro 2008 final.
I’d say that Spain have vastly improved since the beginning of the tournament, but that would be a huge understatement. When they played their opening game against Switzerland, they lacked creativity and the ability to break teams down. They struggled against a solid defence and even looked shaky at the back themselves. These are all things we don’t associate with Spain as a football team – especially when seven of the starting eleven play for Barcelona, and three more play for Real Madrid. Whatever Vicente del Bosque has told his team after that game, it certainly had a huge impact. This Spanish side has improved in every game played, and against Germany they were outstanding – especially in the second half. The defending is solid, the midfield is showing more ingenuity and David Villa is still a massive threat. This is all without Fernando Torres playing well. They will trouble Holland in every department this Sunday. As for Germany, they never really got going in this one. Did the loss of Thomas Müller hurt them that much? Key players like Bastian Schweinsteiger also didn’t play to their full potential. The midfield couldn't keep control of the ball for long enough. They kept it close until the second half, but Spain were always the better side. Being eliminated at this stage has to be a massive disappointment after playing so well in the last few games.
As the World Cup draws to an end, so does my World Cup blog. I’ll be writing about the final at the weekend, as well as the third place play-off, and looking back at some of the more memorable moments of this tournament. Here’s hoping for a great final, and of course, your thoughts and comments are appreciated.
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