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May 29 Barcelona RuleBy Shaun Orange English champions Manchester United were startled by a brilliant performance by Spanish giants, Barcelona, who claimed the Champions League trophy in a 2-0 win in Rome. While Alex Ferguson’s men were outplayed in an entertaining encounter by a composed Barcelona line up, this resulted in the Old Trafford side being stripped of Europe’s top prize. Notwithstanding United’s domineering reign throughout their campaign, the Red Devils were dealt an early shocker from Barcelona’s Samuel Eto'o, when he put his team up in the 10th minute. With Barcelona’s ability to hold on to the ball, getting back into contention for the United side was not going to be an easy task. With United on the back foot, frustration looming, and an emphatic showing of football by Pep Guardiola’s squad, things were not looking good for them. It only took Messi, in the 70th minute to head home what would be the decisive factor in the game, with United unable to gain any substantial ground to their recovery. United lost to a radiant Barcelona side that was on a mission, went out there and played some captivating football. Their resilience together with some brilliant football was by any standards a performance that was worthy of a victory. Pep Guardiola’s side were able to click as a unit, and displays from the likes of Iniesta and Xavi were outstanding and ones to be reckoned with. They played a pivotal role in ensuring the ruling out of the much supported English side. Alex Ferguson and his side have been on a serious run of successes this season and were really going all out in their efforts to attaining as much silverware as possible, however Wednesday’s tie was really a let down for them. Going into the grand finale, Manchester United were deemed by many to come out on top over the potent Spanish club. For Ferguson’s part, this is a great disappointment for the Scot, as this competition is meant to be his forte. Throughout the season, on many occasions while playing in other competitions, Ferguson continually insinuated the importance of the Champions League, and this was important for him and the club. As for the rivalry between Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo and the Argentine winger Lionel Messi, I think the result speaks for itself. Ronaldo, for his part did not emanate true sportsmanship, as frustration got the better of him. Ferguson knew it was going to be an action packed final, but I don’t think he thought it was going to be action packed with United not in favour. With United not accustomed to losing, this final would have undoubtedly left a bitter taste in both Ferguson’s and the players’ mouths. May 27 Moyes boosted ahead of FA Cup FinalBy Shaun Orange Everton manager David Moyes has been given an excellent boost going into their FA Cup final clash against Chelsea scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 30th May. The Toffees manager was awarded the League Managers' Association's (LMA) manager of the Year award. An award sponsored by Barclays is Moyes’ third time to scoop this accolade, the first in 2003 followed by the next in 2005. The 46 year old Scotsman, who has shown a significant amount of resilience in his tenure with the club and has played an instrumental role in Everton’s success since his arrival at Goodison Park in 2002, and deserves the acknowledgment for his efforts. His residence at the club has not been one without difficulties, but through all the tough times, Moyes still managed to show optimism and is one who has utilized whatever resources he had at his disposal to the best of his ability. However, Everton for a long time now have not exhibited any consistency and this has being a draw back for the club which has so much potential to do better. Since Moyes’s arrival at the club, where they were treading in the danger zone of relegation, with no time to waste, he steered the Toffees to 7th place in the Premier League standings from 15th. In their 2003-04 campaign they stumbled to 17th. The following season they gained a considerable amount of ground when they secured 4th position but as you would expect, in the 2005-06 season they fell to 11th. For their efforts in the 2006-07 season they finished 6th then 5th in 2007-08. Inconsistency is clearly evident even though this season saw them match last season’s finish in 5th. Moyes will probably look to this as an improvement but the underlining question is whether they will not drop come next season. Notwithstanding, their ability to put on some captivating showings whether it be in the Premier League, Carling Cup or the FA Cup to go in and win games, their potential is much higher than what they deliver. Despite the fact that Everton do not have as much financial backing as some of the other pinnacle clubs, there are a fair amount of talented aces at the club and there still remains some spark in the Goodison Park side. Regarded as one of the biggest clubs in England, Everton have won the support of a considerably large amount of fans, who through thick and thin stand by them. While Moyes together with his counterparts work side by side to uplift the status of the club, it is good that a deserved Moyes is getting some recognition. While his men are in line for an important challenge this weekend in their FA Cup final, Moyes would have had his spirits lifted, going into their encounter. A tough one considering the strength of the Blues’ squad, but one which they will be aiming to seal. May 26 Rome finaleBy Shaun Orange
The moment that everyone has been long awaiting has finally come. A Champions League final between two of the world’s king pins in football to be held at the Stadio Olimpico has all the ingredients of what is conceived to be the best contest of the year.
Both giants go into the encounter after safely sealing their respective domestic leagues, with this both Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola had the luxury of resting their key players ahead of their battle.
Guardiola, who for his part rested nearly his whole first line picks in their penultimate La Liga fixture on Saturday where they lost 1-0 to Osasuna.
While Sir Alex Ferguson’s controversial decision to field a weaker squad, still managed to thump Hull City in their last league match, and this is just a mere demonstration of the strength of the Old Trafford side.
What makes this final so special boils down to the fact that both these teams share a lot of commonalities in terms of their attributes, and collectively this formulates a strong teams.
We have a clash of two giants, who both clinched their domestic leagues and have outstanding managers. Additionally they pride themselves with currently two of the best players in the world, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and both teams play stylish attacking football.
These two players will definitely be entertaining to watch as they are both determined to prove who is really the cream of the crop. The United striker will undoubtedly have a few tricks up his sleeve while the Argentine winger will be sure to display some dazzling bursts on the flank.
The competition is Ferguson’s main center of attention, he aims at branding the Old Trafford club as leaders in this respect and prides it even more than the World Cup.
This he itinerated when he told The Technician, “I think that, overall, the UEFA Champions League is hard to beat when it comes to consistency, quality and drama.
“The World Cup, of course, is every four years, and big changes always take place with the departure of many players and coaches and continuity then suffers.”
Clearly Fergie is out on a mission, but will missing the services of Darren Ferguson and whether key defender Rio Ferdinand will be fit enough for action, we will know soon enough.
Barcelona for their part will be staging action without defenders, Rafael Marquez, who is out on an injury count and the suspended Eric Abidal and Daniel Alves.
All these players play an instrumental role in their clubs, but the showing will not be any less of a thriller as both sides host all round squads.
The Spanish giants are tipped to go full out and play an attacking and aggressive style of play, while they will have to be vigilant for United’s fast breaks on the counter attack. While Barca have the ability to hold on to the ball, United will have to patient in their tactics.
The contest on Roman Turf set to take place on Wednesday 27 May, is one to be reckoned with, and as many are just waiting to hear the starting whistle, I have not a doubt that it will be a classic performance from both sides and a memorable one at that.
May 25 Farewell to 'Magpies' and 'Boro'By Shaun Orange
While an action packed Sunday marked the end of an exciting Premier League season, Newcastle United and Middlesbrough were dealt some harsh consequences for what could be deemed as a poor season for the duo.
Additionally, Hull City and Sunderland managed to escape the deadly drop, though in an unconvincing manner but nevertheless, they are still in it among the best in the world.
Going into Sunday’s fixture, Hull were under a lot of pressure to perform against United. Furthermore, Ferguson’s methods were questioned while preparing for the encounter, but with Red Devils’ victory with a weakened line-up, all that was be put to rest.
Despite Hull’s loss in their 1-0 encounter, they were spared the embarrassment of regulation with both the Magpies and Boro failing to get a result. With this, it also put Sunderland to safety even though they were dealt a 3-2 beating by Chelsea.
Gareth Southgate’s men needed a miracle of somewhat if they were to harbour any chance of survival this season. To their dismay, this was not to be. Middlesbrough crashed to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of West Ham at Upton Park, which means its all over for them.
Newcastle United also failed to save themselves after they lost 1-0 to Aston Villa. This came about when they put the ball in the wrong side of the net.
The man responsible for this blip was Damien Duff, who in the 38th minute deflected a shot from Gareth Barry past his own goalkeeper Steve Harper.
Newcastle’s inability to correct this mis-fortune means that they have now slipped out of the most coveted and exciting league in the world.
To say the least this is the biggest letdown of the triple that were relegated as Newcastle are such a big team.
The magnitude and experience of this club does not by any close measure fit a result like this. With this, they have broken a sixteen year spell in the Premier League.
Now, Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has got some decision making to do, after failing to save the Magpies with only eight games remaining in the season.
Shearer has to make up his mind whether he wants to make a second attempt to help the Magpies redeem their dignity or not.
Scheduled to discuss the matter with Mike Ashley next week, they will discuss the Club’s future and if all goes well, how best to bring the club back to life.
Although Shearer has taken responsibility for his failure, he is adamant that he is not the only one to blame for Newcastle’s failure to make the grade.
He is in fact right on this one, as Mike Ashley and his advisories made some poor decisions and inevitably the club paid the price.
My thinking is that Shearer will not throw in the towel just yet, but will be willing to assist in the rebuilding of the St. James’ Park side. May 24 Hiddink’s intentions remain unchangedBy Shaun Orange
Chelsea’s stand in manager Guus Hiddink has reaffirmed his departure from Stamford Bridge after their FA Cup final against the Everton on May 30.
While most Blues' fans are disappointed with Hiddink’s departure, mainly due to the fact that the team was shaping up considerably under his command, the Dutchman is only keeping to his word and his agreement.
Hiddink, who was appointed as Chelsea manager following Luiz Felipe Scolari’s sacking in February, has clearly put across to everyone that he has enjoyed his time in England and with the club but the viability of him extending his contract is simply not feasible.
He also pointed out that Chelsea are a big team that require a lot of attention and nurturing especially if they are to achieve the success which they so much desire, the main one would be to have some silverware to show off for their efforts.
Indeed this is true and quite understandable. Probed on the matter Hiddink said “it cannot be done. Chelsea are a big responsibility and you have to be in charge, day in and day out.”
With the FA cup final coming up, this is a crutial time for Blues’ as they prepare for the encounter. This is their only shot of bringing home some silverware this season, so they will be banking on Hiddink’s expertise to assist in their endeavor
Chelsea skipper Frank Lampard, who plays an instrumental role at Chelsea has also expressed the need for them to perform at their best to ensure that they do not end another season empty handed.
“A season without silverware is seen as a failure and that’s pretty well right, if you look at the quality of the squad here,” said Lampard.
Frank, who is also one that is in favour of Hiddink’s methods and tactics, and among the long list who will feel Hiddink’s absence also added, “We've been a very tight-knit group since he came in. The man has been a pleasure, not just as a manager but as a person.”
The Dutch coach has insinuated that a stay with Chelsea would be enjoyable, and one would think so with all the privileges that come along with being the boss of such a high profile English team.
With his indication that it is impossible to head both the Russian national team and Chelsea simultaneously, Hiddink is set to walk away from Chelsea at the end of this summer and Chelsea for their part will be left to find a replacement.
At the moment Carlo Ancelotti , the AC Milan coach is the most favourable candidate and Chelsea will most likely do all they can to possibly lure the Italian to the English side.
Chelsea’s clash with Everton in the FA Cup final will indeed give them the opportunity to deliver right to the end, which of late they have failed to do.
May 23 Relegation ScuffleBy Shaun Orange
Most Premier League seasons commence with a lot of energy and excitement, this season was no exception, additionally we are further entertained by not only excitement in the beginning but right through till the end, in fact right up until Sunday afternoon.
Sunday afternoon will host the 38th and final match of the season for all the Premier League clubs and has the making of a thrilling round of action all at once.
For some though, Sunday’s fixtures are a do or die situation and there is a lot more banking on their games than others. This makes it all the more exciting for an action packed end to the season. While West Brom already know their fate to this season’s end, Middlesbrough, Hull City, Sunderland and Newcastle still have their fingers crossed while they battle it out for who will be saved from a daunting relegation.
Phil Brown has about the most difficult team to play, in terms of trying to secure a win, when they face Manchester United. Or is it?
United kop decided to field a weaker squad against Hull on Sunday in an effort to rest some key players for the Rome finale, when they clash against Barcelona. However, Ferguson’s decision has raised a few eyebrows.
Although the Scot has assured the other relegation contenders that they will by no means make things easy for Hull, this is to be discovered.
“We have a league that has the best integrity in the world and we will play our part in that. We are expected to win. We will go to win. That is the responsibility we always have,” said Ferguson.
Whether this is really the case, who knows, I guess only Ferguson himself. If it is not, then he will have to answer some seriously difficult questions come Monday morning.
Middlesbrough however face the least likeliness of surviving the test of time as their requirements for Sunday would require a serious spell of luck to go their way.
Gareth Southgate’s side travel to West Ham and they need to win, they also need for Newcastle and Hull to lose their games, additionally there is also the goal difference to be considered.
Certainly this scenario is one which Middlesbrough can only approach by being positive and giving their all, from that point on they just have to wait and see the outcome of the other results.
Newcastle’s mission for survival is basically produce a result that is better than that of Hull on the day or take all three points, and hope Sunderland lose. If this equation goes their way then they may live to see another Premier League start.
Newcastle’s result on Sunday will bring to question whether in fact Alan Shearer was worth bringing to the club, as his duty was to strengthen the Magpies squad and save them from relegation.
Sunderland for their part, just need a point to secure their stay in the Premier League or at least match Newcastle or Hull’s results.
While all the four clubs harbour ambitions of getting a result that will save them from the deep blue sea, two will be left for dead to join West Brom. May 22 Hull’s fate in Ferguson’s handsBy Shaun Orange
Hull City are set to host newly crowned champions Manchester United at the KC Stadium on Sunday.
They have a huge challenge ahead of them in that they are required to win their encounter with the Red Devils in order to safely secure their spot in the top-flight next season.
A win for the Tigers would have them untouchable for relegation and ensure them another season of Premier League action.
Indeed this would never be an easy task, but it might have been made a tad easier with the Old Trafford boss Alex Ferguson deciding to field selected key players.
Ferguson has his sights set on the Champions League grand finale next week in Rome, when they lock horns against Spanish giants Barcelona.
It is for this reason that he is reluctant to play key players but instead rest the big guns in the United camp to ensure that they are fresh and injury free for Rome.
With Sunday hosting the last games of the season, Hull City find themselves among the last five who could be shown the exit door, but to their delight, they may have been given a last chance to salvage their survival.
Season after season, the Premier League has always produced surprising results, where big clubs cave in to those of a lower stature. But the likelihood of Hull overcoming English champions are quite slim.
While some might have the opinion that Ferguson’s decision may be an unfair one, this would not be entirely true.
Even if Ferguson were to exclude the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Edwin van der Sar, this is by no means a guaranteed win for the Tigers as United have an all round talented squad.
It is a fact that even United’s second choice players are regarded stronger than most team's first grade players.
A clear illustration of this was in their encounter in last month’s FA Cup semi-final against Everton, where Ferguson fielded a weaker line up but were dismissed the fate of a penalty shootout.
So whether this is really an opportunity for Hull, is debatable. Hull City chairman Paul Duffen is well aware of this but believes that the hype over Ferguson’s team selection could work in their favour.
Duffen told Sky Sports News, “Whatever team Manchester United put out it is going to be a very tough ask for us.
“They don't have an easy side. Even if they put youngsters out they could still field 11 internationals.”
The strength of this weekends Manchester United side will definitely bear a pivotal part in the battle for survival for Hull and the teams that find themselves hanging on at the bottom end of the table.
May 19 Ancelotti would be a coupBy Shaun Orange With Chelsea’s interim manager Guus Hiddink set to bid farewell to the Blues on Saturday there remains some uncertainty as just who will replace the Dutchman, despite suggestions that AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti will take over after the FA Cup final. Hiddink’s stint at Stamford Bridge proved more than fruitful and could yet culminate in Cup glory, given that the Blues take on Everton in the final at Wembley on May 30. But regardless of how excited the Blues’ fans will be about landing football’s oldest and most celebrated trophy, the issue of manager is one that will not go away until resolved – in public at least. Chelsea’s pursuit of Ancelotti is by no means a secret, but there has been no confirmation that he will be taking charge of the London club. If Stamford Bridge are able to lure the Italian, as many suspect, Ancelotti would be warmly welcomed, yet against a background of a not so applaudable track record of changing managers. Indeed, Ancelotti would become the club’s fifth manager in less than two years. That is not to say that the switch to Stamford Bridge would be a bad one, though, as no doubt the package would surely be a very rewarding. However, there are other factors to consider in a move for the Italian. For instance, Ancelotti’s presence at Stamford Bridge would prove a good replacement for Hiddink, given his bags of experience and his qualities as a world-class coach, coupled with management skills that have yielded much success down the years. Those would be seen as fundamental in assuming the reins at Stamford Bridge and key to getting the Blues squad to play as a cohesive unit and a fired-up one at that. This squad is loaded with talent, and on paper is a strong as any in England or on the continent. With stars like Frank Lampard, Diega Drogba, John Terry and Michael Ballack, there is certainly no shortage of pedigree. They have the capacity to win trophies, just as they have shown their potential in the past. And with a good coach as good as Ancelotti who knows what they can achieve next season. This is all fare and fine, but where does that leave Chelsea if their bid for Ancelotti is turned down, as some others have suggested. The answer would be “in a not such a good position”. An alternative would Frank Rijkaard, the Dutch coach who left Barcelona last summer is purporte to be the man AC Milan will turn to if Ancelotti makes his way to the Premiership. Rijkaard’s agent Perry Overeem, recently told Sky Sports that they would consider an offer an offer from England as “he (Rijkaard) is a big fan of the Premier League and would be very interested in working with Chelsea”. He added, however, that it would depend on the conditions and the plans of the club. Even then, Chelsea would have to contend with the likes of Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, who have all expressed an interest in the services of the Dutchman. But the first choice for Chelsea would have to be Ancelotti, he appears perfectly suited to takeover from Hiddink, and what an addition to the Premiership he would be! May 18 Benitez snubs Ferguson, rightly or wrongly
By Shaun Orange Following Manchester United’s success at the weekend, in which they successfully defended their Premier League title, rival club manager Rafael Benitez failed to put his differences with Alex Ferguson aside and personally congratulate the Old Trafford, as has become the custom in the game. Benitez for quite blatantly refused to acknowledge Ferguson for what they had achieved, this coming after Manchester United won the league title for the 18th time and equalled Liverpool’s all-time English record. To say the least, this is a great achievement on the part of the Red Devils, but Anfield boss Benitez not too pleased with the way things panned out, and made his feeling be known to all bothered to take notice. Although Benitez unenthusiastically congratulated the Manchester club as a whole, he clearly made an effort not to acknowledge Ferguson, an din doing merely racketed up the rivalry for next season, even this campaign is not yet done. Speaking to Sky Sports, the Spaniard said “I will say congratulations to Manchester United. They have done well, but I do not want to say too much. I prefer just to say well done to the club, a big club, a good club.” The implication, and a bitter one at that, was that the club was “big and good”, but not so the man “Ferguson”. Of course, Benitez has his rights, and those include whether or not he wants to congratulate Ferguson, or any other manager or player for that matter. But if the truth be told, this is nothing but a case of bitter felt deep in the heart. Benitez feels, as he has said, done in by officialdom that he claims turns a blind eye to the theatrics of the Old Trafford manager. And to some degree, the Liverpool bois is right. These two giants of the game have locked horns before and look certain to do so any again in the near future. It was around the turn of the year that Benitez laid into the Manchester United boss and did so with some venom, unleashing a barrage of attacks and criticisms leveled at Old Trafford and Ferguson. But that is just one side of the story, because Ferguson himself hit back and accused Benitez of being “arrogant” and “contemptuous” and so the feud continued. Benitez clearly has issues with the way United and Ferguson throw their weight around and there is growing support for the Spaniard, who is widely being viewed as someone who has the guts to stand up to the bullying tactics of Ferguson. Liverpool’s efforts in the Premier League will at least earn them second place. However is desperately short of what Benitez had in mind. But he and his team will know from the onset next season that have at last the squad with ability (even if it is short supply on the bench) to challenge Manchester United for the league championship crown. A campaign as good as this one, but with a less fumbling, might well be enough to win the Premiership for Liverpool, and maybe that is why Benitez was not so keen to acknowledging his rival. Anyway, it does set up a mouthwatering prospect for next season - and why not? May 17 United crowned championsBy Shaun Orange
Manchester United were crowned English champions when they could only manage a goalless draw against the Gunners, nevertheless this outcome was enough.
Their result not only made them champions of England, but the Old Trafford side have also equaled Liverpool’s 18 titles. When Manchester boss was asked if this felt special, he said, “It will become a lot more special when we have got in front of them. And that's what we will be aiming for next year.”
Ferguson also added, “This is a great side, a really great side. Actually, it's a really great squad. “I could have picked two sides today, I had to leave good players out like Paul Scholes, Dimitar Berbatov and Anderson. It is not easy.”
Carlos Tevez, however was among the starters and appeared to drop a tear as he waved a farewell goodbye to his home fans when he was substituted. This must have been a real emotional time for the Argentine who at the moment does not know what his future plans are.
While United in no way managed to get a result against Arsenal as they did in the UEFA champions league semi-finals when they beat the Gunners in both meetings, the home team were still left happy with their performance.
One of whom was Cristiano Ronaldo who said, “It is a fantastic achievement to win the League at home, the feeling is always brilliant and we are really happy."
Going into Saturday’s match, United knew that they only needed a single point to clinch the title and make it their third consecutive league title.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s side knew that they had to at least come out with a draw before their much adored fans to extinguish Liverpool’s hopes of topping the Old Trafford side this season, and that’s exactly what they did, no more and no less.
At the other end of the Premier League table, there is a scrap for who will be dismissed from the most prestigious league in the world.
Hull City managed to scramble their way out of the bottom three when they drew 1-1 against Bolton. However Alan Shearer’s Newcastle, who crashed to a 1-0 loss to Fulham and Middlesbrough who only managed a draw against Aston Villa, find themselves both in pitiable positions.
Following Hull’s draw, Phil Brown and his team may have given themselves a chance to remain in the top-flight, this is however dependable on their last game against Manchester United next Sunday, and the results from the other three back-markers.
Newcastle for their efforts find themselves back in the relegation zone and appear to have no antidote for their bad form. They can only hope for a good result in their last encounter when they play Aston Villa at Villa Park next Sunday and see what happens.
It boils down to the last games that will be battled out that will determine which clubs will not be present come next season. This is always a huge blow for any club that find themselves relegated, but that’s the order of football.
May 16 Action at both ends of the leagueBy Shaun Orange
This weekend’s Premier League fixtures are by no means ones without action. Decisive games will be played by teams both at the top and bottom end of the table.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s side will be looking to scoop the world’s most coveted league title in their clash with Arsenal at Old Trafford later on today.
In addition Middlesbrough will host Aston Villa at the Riverside Stadium who find themselves well within contention of relegation, equaling in points with Tony Mowbray’s West Brom who in turn are set to play Liverpool on Sunday.
Struggling West Bromwich who find themselves topping the wrong end of the Premier League table, will host Liverpool on Sunday. West Brom manager Tony Mowbray is confident that his team can overcome the Reds at The Hawthorns Stadium come Sunday.
In my opinion I think Mowbray is anticipating too much considering their form this season. He perhaps has drawn a vote of confidence from their most recent performances where they won two out of their last three league ties, namely to Wegan and Sunderland but lost to Tottenham.
The West Bromwich manager is not discouraged by the fact that at such a crucial stage in their campaign, they are scheduled to meet one of the best teams in the league, if not the best.
“For us, we will have to be at our very best and they will have to be a bit below par. But we have shown in recent weeks, particularly at home, that we can score goals and that is what we have got to try and do again this Sunday,” said Mowbray.
Liverpool for their part can only keep their fingers crossed and hope that Manchester United slip up against the Gunners and then win at West Brom.
If things unfold in this respect, then Liverpool’s hopes of closing in on United are still alive. This is however unlikely, as United are in top form and need only a draw to secure a third successive championship.
The Anfield boss has bitterly expressed concerns about the way the games have been scheduled. Benitez believes that games played by teams that are fighting relegation and teams challenging for the title should be played at the same time, this is to avoid teams gaining any unfair advantage.
“Yes it is something we can improve in the future because over the last few weeks I think it is better to play at the same time,” the Spaniard said.
“The teams that are fighting to avoid relegation and the teams fighting for the title, I think that if you play at the same time the last two games it will be the same for everyone. At least in Spain it is like this.”
Benitez’s opinions will however have no bearing on this weekend because the course has already been set and it will not change.
Benitez also indicated that Arsenal are a good team, and they are, so he will probably be banking on them holding off United and then hoping for a result on Sunday.
My thinking is that they will not be able to achieve this, as United are extremely determined so we might see the trophy being lifted later today. May 15 Hiddink’s departure will be feltBy Shaun Orange
While Chelsea’s campaign this season has been a relatively strong one, they really need to pull up their socks.
The Blues boast an impeccable all round lineup, but for their part, are still not playing as convincingly as they should be.
With the likes of Nicolas Anelka, who is the second highest goal scorer with 17 goals thus far in the league, Frank Lampard and Drogba, just to mention a few. Chelsea really ought to be putting more pressure on Liverpool and leaders Manchester United.
Chelsea, who in the Premier League trail Liverpool by 3 points and are 9 behind Manchester United, have the potential of being more of a threat. But in order to achieve this they need not drop points in games against lower level teams, consistency is vital.
A major transformation for the Blues came with the arrival of Dutch coach, Guus Hiddink in the month of February. This coming after Brazilian coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari was given the boot.
Chelsea’s key players need to be playing at their best if they are to have any chance of really posing a threat.
Captain John Terry conceded that only after the arrival of Hiddink did he reach his best, and had this to say, “'I’m pretty pleased.
“At the start of the season I thought I was playing really well and it linked well to us doing well as a team, and a few others playing really well.
“I think the first 10 games of the season I was really good and then after that had a dip in form for maybe another 10 games where I wasn’t at the levels I can be.
“But since the manager has come in from the first game at Aston Villa, I have been at the very top of my game again.”
Drogba is another key player whose form has also taken a positive twist with the arrival of the stand in manager. After having his own issues with Scolari, his game was dragged through the dumps and at a stage he was extremely unhappy at the club and this was affecting his game tremendously.
Hiddink’s presence at Stamford Bridge has undoubtedly proven to be instrumental to Chelsea, however his position is temporary as he will be returning to his full-time duties as coach of the Russia national team come end of May.
This is a loss to Chelsea as some of the players were really beginning to find their form, and most of the players are in favour of Hiddink’s methods and tactics, mainly due to the fact that they were working.
The fate of Stamford Bridge is quite uncertain with Hiddink’s departure after the FA Cup final in their clash with Everton.
And for them to put on more consistant performances next season, it is imperative for them to be led by someone with the drive and skills similar to that of Hiddink’s.
May 14 United’s closing stagesBy Shaun OrangeManchester United are just one point away from lifting the prestigious Barclays Premier League trophy, after their 2-1 win against Wigan on Wednesday.Wigan opened the score line but could not contain the likes of Carlos Tevez and then a Michael Carrick strike in the 87th-minute to seal United’s victory.United's strength and resilience has proven instrumental in their afforts to clinch a record-equalling 18th championship. United manager Alex Ferguson will be looking to try and wrap things up in this weekend's fixture againt arch rivals Arsenal.While a win over Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal will by no means be an easy challenge this weekend, United have shown that they are in good enough form to overcome the gunners.Red Devils striker Wayne Rooney has expressed their need to win this weekend and is determined to assist United to a win telling the Evening Standard, “One point will win the title for us. Hopefully that can come on Saturday. “It would be brilliant to do it in front of our own fans and brilliant to win it against Arsenal, who are a great footballing team,” Rooney added. The sooner Manchester United can seal and retain their Premier League title, the better for them. Ferguson’s thinking at the moment would be to concentrate on their game against Arsenal this weekend, then hopefully they can focus all their energy on the Champions League final, where they will meet Spanish giants Barcelona in what could prove to be an enthralling encounter.United’s composure is crucial at this stage, and Ferguson’s planning will prove vital in the final stages of this season. His decisions will be questioned but he is experienced enough to know what he is doing and the players need to understand this, particularly Ronaldo.Ronaldo displayed signs of dissatisfaction when he was substituted in the match against Manchester City. This type of behavior is uncalled for. Even if he is was dissapointed by Ferguson’s decision to substitute him, that was no way to behave.The lad needs to put his temperament in check and get on with his game. A player who is doing just that is Argentine striker Carlos Tevez.Undeterred by his uncertainty at Old Trafford, he is still managing to pull off some dashing displays on the pitch. One has to wonder whether this is his way of proving a point to Ferguson, if that is the case, he is really doing a good job of it.For his part, he has been an instrumental player and scoring some really important goals, in United’s victories.
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