Category Uncategorized

Crystal Palace have suffered three consecutive defeats in the Premier League ahead of their game against Huddersfield.

The Eagles made the perfect start to the new campaign with a win against Fulham on the opening day of the season. However, Roy Hodgson has suffered defeat in all three of their next fixtures to pile the pressure on already. The international break came at a welcome time for the former England boss especially given their record in recent seasons.

Their most recent opponents, Huddersfield, have just three wins in the 15 games that followed the international breaks in the first half of the season, just one of them coming at the John Smith’s stadium. The Terriers were without captain Jonathan Hogg and, as usual, Wilfried Zaha ran absolutely wild.

Still. with Christian Benteke sidelined through injury, Hodgson may be tempted to sign a new striker in the January transfer window. One man he should be targeting is Zenit St Petersburg forward – Aleksandr Kokorin. Valued at £9.9m by Transfermarkt, the Russia international has less than one year remaining on his contract at the club.

The 27-year-old was in fine form last season, netting 19 goals in 35 appearances during all competitions. Kokorin also registered four assists for his side. The forward has been capped 48 times by his country, scoring 12 goals. He was expected to be a key player for Russia at the World Cup before an injury ruled him out of contention.

With Benteke struggling in front of goal, Kokorin would be the perfect addition to the squad. Alongside Wilfried Zaha in the attack, Hodgson would have a forward line that would fire them up the table.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Crystal Palace fans, thoughts?

Manchester City find themselves facing the good kind of problem ahead of Saturday’s Manchester derby. On the one hand, their Premier League title is a mere formality with seven games left to get themselves over the line; on the other, nothing would be sweeter than clinching it against the club whose shadow they’ve lived in for the vast majority of their modern history.

And thus, Pep Guardiola has a key decision to make over Sergio Aguero, who wasn’t part of the travelling squad that made the trip to Anfield on Wednesday night after suffering an injury. It’s not thought to be serious but it remains to be seen if he’ll be available for the weekend.

Even if he is though, Guardiola is still faced with a dilemma. While Gabriel Jesus’ peripheral display against Liverpool highlighted the significant chasm between City’s two strike options, the Etihad Stadium outfit don’t need to win this game.

So is it actually worth the risk of starting Aguero, especially bearing in mind how injury-prone the Argentine striker, who Transfermarkt value at £67.5million, has been throughout his Premier League career, and especially with the return leg of their Champions League quarter-final with Liverpool just around the corner?

Assuming he’s fit enough to be available for selection, would you risk starting Aguero against United this weekend? Let us know by voting below…

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

[ad_pod ]

Manchester United maintained their 100% record in the Champions League this season and moved a step closer to qualifying for the last 16 with a narrow 1-0 victory against Benfica at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday night, but Red Devils fans weren’t impressed with Daley Blind’s performance.

The Dutchman lined up at left-back for the sixth time this season against the Portuguese outfit, with Marcus Rashford’s second-half free-kick proving to be the difference between the two teams in a clash that won’t live long in the memory.

While he struggled to get forward and overlap Rashford on the left – which is now expected of the modern day full-back – Blind was also sloppy in possession on a number of occasions for Jose Mourinho’s men.

Man United supporters were quick to have their say on his showing via social media, and while some labelled him “a liability”, others said he “gets worse every game”.

Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction…

Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Chelsea are interested in potentially signing Leeds United defender Pontus Jansson, reports Swedish media outlet Expressen.

What’s the story?

Jansson has been a key figure in the Whites’ Championship campaign, which could end with the club in a playoff place.

The 26-year-old joined the club from Torino last summer on a season-long loan, but will seal a permanent three-year contract at the end of the season.

It seems as though other clubs are trying to lure Jansson elsewhere, with Expressen reporting that top-flight giants Tottenham, Chelsea and Liverpool have already made enquiries about a possible deal.

Sky Sports claim that Southampton have also registered an interest in the Swede, who missed out on the PFA Championship Team of the Year.

Will Leeds struggle to keep Jansson?

If the rumours are to be believed then it would be tough for the defender not to consider a move.

No disrespect to Leeds or Jansson’s previous clubs Malmo and Torino, but the opportunity to play for a Premier League giant is a huge step up.

Although, looking at the back lines of Chelsea and Tottenham, it would be difficult for him to force a way into the starting XI.

Gary Cahill, David Luiz and Cesar Azpilicueta form a solid back three at Stamford Bridge, while Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen are the first-choice pairing at White Hart Lane.

Jansson may have a better chance of first-team action at Liverpool due to their inconsistent performances at the back, while uncertainty over Virgil van Dijk’s future at Southampton could pave a way through for the Swede.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

This season, Jansson has made 32 appearances in the Championship and has even contributed with three goals and an assist.

It would be a huge blow to Leeds if they were to lose the defender, particularly if the club earn promotion to the Premier League.

[ad_pod id=’playwire’ align=’center’]

Jose Mourinho’s arrival at Manchester United has been heralded as one of the greatest managerial appointments of our time. And, in some cases, this has been a fairly well reasoned argument.

A sensationally successful manager, a mesmerising personality and a desire to win are exactly what Manchester United have been crying out for since the departure of Alex Ferguson.

Mourinho has already made his mark, too, investing in the team heavily and holding nothing back in each of his clashes with the press. It’s set to be extraordinary entertainment, whatever may happen.

With Pep Guardiola arriving across Manchester, there are going to be countless duels in the city between two of the sport’s best names. Two of the greatest, most successful, iconic managers of an entire footballing generation, in fact.

The pressure on each boss is palpable. One wrong step and they’re likely to be out the door in a blink.

Will Mourinho last his first season? Here are FIVE reasons he may yet struggle…

Paul’s pressure

Once the inevitable Paul Pogba transfer goes through, half the football world will be asking why and how.

Unfortunately for Mourinho, the other half will, more sensibly, be looking at what will be deemed a success for the Frenchman.

Crashing the world record transfer fee is one thing, but what if Pogba flops? Could it see the managerial axe hover above Mourinho’s head?

Track record…

Such is Mourinho’s experience that many seem to have overlooked the fact that his last job in football management saw him nearly relegate the Premier League champions.

There is every chance that Manchester United are treated to the Mourinho that made Inter Milan into against-all-odds European Champions, but there is clearly a risk. Has he lost his golden touch? Is he now more interested in fighting than winning?

Only time will tell.

Hunting controversy…

Mourinho has never been afraid of the odd battle with another powerful individual, but there is a time and a place for that sort of nonsense and it very much isn’t at Manchester United.

With club legends in influential positions above the Portuguese manager, there is little room for confrontation. His almost-admirable disregard for authority will have to be reigned in at Manchester United or he could see Old Trafford heroes turn against him.

Old friendship

One thing Manchester United would despise more than anything is to fall behind Manchester City on a regular basis. The previous three seasons have hinted that such a calamity could be in the offing and Mourinho has been recruited to avoid this happening and avoid it right now.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

It will be his old, hardened, bitter rivalry with Pep Guardiola that will be the yardstick for Mourinho’s time at United.

Big leap

Partly built out of his record, partly from his own egotistical comments, Mourinho has stacked up the expectations at Old Trafford. The club that believes it deserves a title every other year has faced a shock to their collective systems since the retirement of Ferguson.

Questions have been asked even of the club’s stature in the recent seasons and Mourinho is the man charged with righting the wrongs of Van Gaal and Moyes.

However, from a club that finished some distance off the title, this is a big ask even after the investment. Could it prove to be too big an improvement to ask of even Mourinho?

Manchester United’s need for a 20 goal a season striker has been on Louis Van Gaal’s mind. Robin Van Persie is currently injured, Falcao has just four Premier League goals to his name for the season, James Wilson has not featured too heavily, leaving Wayne Rooney as the closest LVG has to a prolific striker.

If it is goals Louis needs, he should look no further than the man he loaned to Real Madrid in the summer – Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez.

The Mexican began to fall out of favour after the signing of Robin Van Persie in 2012. As time went on, Hernandez was a regular feature on Manchester United’s substitute bench, and never really made his way back to the starting eleven.

In his last game for Manchester United – the dreaded fixture against MK Dons – it was clear Hernandez was looking for a way out. He found his exit on Deadline Day to La Liga, joining Real Madrid on loan, with an option to buy at the end of the season.

But what Hernandez called a ‘dream come true’ has quickly become a nightmare for him. He has simply moved from one bench to a much sunnier bench. He has made one start in La Liga, but that has been the height of it.

[ad_pod id=’football-friends’ align=’center’]

Being continually benched at United is what cost him a starting place in the World Cup under Miguel Herrera, and first team football was Chicharito’s priority. The competition for the starting line up at was always going to be much stronger at Real, and Chicharito never truly stood a chance against the likes of the Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.

Although first team football may not be calling at Old Trafford, bringing Chicharito back on loan could rack the goals up, which Louis Van Gaal is looking for. When given the opportunity he has often made the difference. Twenty being the magic number, is exactly how many the Little Pea scored in his debut season for Manchester United.

Admittedly, Chicharito would be likely to resume the position of the ‘super sub’ upon his return to Manchester United. But if Falcao can start, so can Hernandez.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

With The Daily Star suggesting the likes of Southampton, Everton and West Ham may be calling on the Mexican’s signature for next season, Louis Van Gaal needs to act fast on wether Chicharito could be a serious option or not for the squad he is hoping to build.

Economically, it makes sense to bring back Chicharito, rather than spending the £43 million for Radamel Falcao.

[ad_pod id=’ffc-video’ align=’center’]

England captain Steven Gerrard believes that Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has the potential to be one of the best players in world football.

The pair are set to feature for the Three Lions against Brazil in a friendly match at Wembley after facing each other in a recent Premier League clash.

Gerrard has been impressed with the injury-plagued playmaker’s return to form, and has backed him to become a genuine star in the not too distant future:

“I think he’s got the potential to become one of the best in the world,” he is quoted by The Mirror.

“I don’t want to add any pressure. That’s unfair. But playing against him recently and in training, he’s a one-off. He’s a lot better than your normal Premier League midfielder. I have a lot of confidence in him.”

The 21-year-old has suffered with injury problems in his short career, leading some to doubt his ability to fulfil his potential.

Gerrard believes that Wilshere is the complete midfielder and is hopeful that he can guide England to future success:

“He’s got a bit of everything, he can tackle, get up and down the pitch, create a goal, score a goal, can pass. He can tick almost every box, and he’s going to get better and better.

“He’s only 21 and a fantastic talent. We’re all delighted he’s back and happy to play with him.”

Even at his tender age, Wilshere is being hailed as the future of both England and Arsenal due to his all action performances and technical ability.

Gerrard feels that he has the personality to deal with the expectation and that he will be helped by senior players:

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

“He looks as if he can cope with the pressure. You’ve still got the likes of Rooney, Lampard and Cole, other top players in the group, and we’ll share the responsibility out.

“It’s up to us to put our arms round him and make sure you lot don’t put too much pressure on him.”

[cat_link cat=”england” type=”grid”]

Real Madrid’s out of favour midfield enforcer Lassana Diarra could be on his way to join new Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas at White Hart Lane, reports The Metro.

The 27 year old has been deemed surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu since joining in 2009, and his high wage demands have led to the La Liga champions becoming eager to part company with the Frenchman.

However, Spurs may have some competition in securing Diarra’s signature as QPR, Everton and Newcastle make up a list of 3 other English clubs also reportedly looking to attract Diarra to the Premier League.

Having already proved himself in England’s top flight thanks to spells at Chelsea, Arsenal and Portsmouth, a move back to the Premier League could suit Diarra; provided his new club can meet his wage demands.

There is also interest from abroad in the form of Spartak Moscow and Fenerbache, as Real Madrid are willing to let their enforcer leave for as little as £4 million.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Whilst Tottenham may have to fight off some stiff competition to bring Diarra to White Hart Lane, it could mark the start of a busy summer as Villas-Boas looks to strengthen his new side.

[ad_pod id=’dfp-mpu’ align=’right’]

A big update has emerged on Aston Villa and their pursuit of Alex Moreno during the current January transfer window…

What’s the talk?

According to John Percy of The Telegraph, the Villans are closing in on the signing of Real Betis full-back Alex Moreno to be their first recruit of the month.

The reporter also adds that Unai Emery is not settling for one new addition to his squad at Villa Park as he is also keen on bringing a winger in.

Percy Tweeted: “#avfc to continue talks with Real Betis over £12m deal for left-back Alex Moreno. Getting closer. Unai Emery also targeting a new winger as a priority this month.”

Dream start

Bringing in Moreno from Betis before the end of the month would be a dream start to Emery’s first window in charge of the Villans for a number of reasons.

Firstly, the left-back is Spanish and would be able to strike up an instant connection with the head coach without having to worry about a language barrier, whilst the defender coming in from La Liga also means that the Villa boss already knows him well from his time at Villarreal.

At the age of 29, Moreno is also an established professional who has racked up 145 appearances in the top-flight of Spanish football, along with 148 in the second tier. This means that Villa are not taking a risk on a young, up-and-coming, prospect and are getting someone who, in theory, can hit the ground running and make an instant impact.

The defender could also be a dream fit for the manager’s style of play. Emery is a manager who likes to utilise counter-attacking with pace after defending deep to protect his own goal and Moreno ranks in the 78th percentile or higher in dribbles completed, touches in the opposition’s box and progressive passes received per 90 amongst his positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues over the last 365 days.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

These statistics indicate that he is good at bursting past players down the left flank and great at getting into advanced positions to be passed to by teammates, which would suit a counter-attacking style where the full-back is bombing on to join the attack.

Therefore, the signing of Moreno would be a dream addition for Emery’s first new arrival due to the instant impact that he could have heading into the second half of the campaign.

West Bromwich Albion intend to hold talks with Kyle Bartley regarding a move from Swansea City, according to The Sun on Sunday (July 1, page 59).

What’s the word?

The Baggies are in need of some defensive strength as they try to cope with the demands of Championship football.

Darren Moore and his team were relegated to the second tier after finishing bottom of the Premier League last season.

At the back, they have already lost Jonny Evans, who recently joined Leicester City, while Gareth McAuley has left and there are doubts over the future of Craig Dawson.

The Sun on Sunday reports that Bartley is one of West Brom’s targets and that talks could be held soon regarding a £4m switch from Swansea.

The Baggies face competition, though, as Leeds United and Birmingham City are also keen on the defender, who suffered with injury problems last season.

[brid autoplay=”true” video=”255574″ player=”12034″ title=”Watch Four World Cup myths debunked”]

Do West Brom have a chance?

If reports are true in that the club are planning to hold talks, then the Midlands outfit are in the driving seat.

However, 6ft3 Bartley has already got experience playing under Garry Monk, who is currently in charge of Birmingham.

Is this the best World Cup ever? Give us your thoughts here and win any World Cup shirt of your choice.

As well as that, the Swansea defender previously played for Leeds, where he heavily impressed during a loan spell in the 2016-17 campaign.

All three will be competing in the Championship this season, but the Baggies arguably have the best chance of earning promotion to the top flight due to the fact that they only just dropped down.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.

---

Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Bartley could see that as an incentive, and he will be offered first-team football, which is another tick in the plus column.