Football Corner

Francis Jeffers has joined Scotish Premierleague side Rangers from Charlton on a four month loan deal from Charlton. The striker passed a medical this evening and has moved to Ibrox until January. It was originally thought that the English striker would be spending the season in Glasgow but he will return to the Valley in the New Year.

The former Everton and Arsenal forward hasn't really done much since his £2million move to Charlton last summer but he will be hoping that this move will help him rekindal his best form. Jeffers had not featured in any of Charlton's squad's this season and he will face tough opposition for a place in the Rangers team, like Dado Prso and Nacho Novo.

In my opinion I don't think Jeffers is good enough for the Premiership and maybe the Scotish league might be the league for him. I believe it is a good move for Charlton because now they don't have to pay some of his wages. Jeffers will do well at Rangers and maybe a permanent deal would be good after the loan.

Aston Villa winger Nolberto Solano could be on his way back to his former club Newcastle in an exchange deal involving James Milner. Earlier on today, Magpies chairman Freddy Shepherd dismissed any notion of a deal being done. But it now appears that Solano is wanted back on Tyneside and will move provided Milner goes the other way.

Solano in his old Newcastle days
Solano originally left the club for Villa 18 months ago and was linked with a switch to Liverpool earlier this month. Villa boss David O'Leary denied that the Peruvian was joining Liverpool and was adamant that he would stay at the club. O'Leary, though, appears to have been tempted into letting Solano rejoin Newcastle on the asumption he gets Milner.

Solano is a good player and I believe a move back to Newcastle would be good for him. Solano is a player that has a great free kick and is a great passer of the ball. O'Leary will benifit with England under 21 international James Milner who has never really showed his true potential at Newcastle and maybe this move will help him do that.

Blackburn have signed Arsenal winger David Bentley on a season-long loan deal. The 21 year old spent last season on loan at eventually relagated Norwich and made 26 appearences and scored 2 goals. Blackburn boss Mark Hughes will be hoping Bently can add a creative spark to his team.

Bentley in action for the Gunners
Bently had a summer transfer request accepted by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger and West Ham, Crystal Palace and Norwich were all keen to take the England under 21 international to their clubs but now Rovers have got him. FA Premier League rules prohibit the player from appearing against Arsene Wenger's Gunners in a Rovers shirt.

Bently is a good player with bags of ability and I'm sure he will do well at Blackburn. This is a good signing by Rovers boss Mark Hughes because he dosen't have to pay a penny for a good player. Bently could be a big hit with Blackburn, Watch out!

Aston Villa have swooped to sign Leeds midfielder Erik Bakke on a loan deal that will keep him at Villa Park until January 31st. Villa boss David O'Leary knows all about Bakke from his time as Leeds manager and is hoping Bakke, who is only back from injury, can stay injury free for the length of the loan deal.

The 27-year-old is the third new arrival at Villa in the last week following the captures of Milan Baros and Wilfred Bouma. The Norwegian international has seen his career blighted by a series of problems in the last two years.

This is a good deal for Villa because they aren't paying anything for a very decent player but this player is very injury pron. Bakke is a very good player and if he stays injury free and has a good loan spell at Villa you never know he may just earn himself a permanent deal at Villa Park.

Portugal midfielder Simao has passed a medical at Liverpool and is set to sign for the European Champions. The Benfica star is expected to joing Liverpool proir to Wednesday's deadline for a fee of around £10million. Simao is understood to of agreed personal terms with the club, having been granted permission from Benfica to talk to Liverpool.

Simao set for Liverpool
The wide man's agent Jorge Baidek has confirmed to skysports.com that the talks are heading towards a positive conclusion. "Now the operation is very advanced and we wait for a final solution in the next few hours," Baidek told skysports.com.

However Benfica are now trying to call off the deal with the reds because they don't want to lose such a good player. There have been suggestions that Benfica want Djibril Cisse in part exchange but that appears to be an unlikely scenario.

Simao would be a great signing for Liverpool and £10million seems a good price for a great wide player because if you think about it Chelsea paid £21million for Shaun Wright-Phillips. Simao would probablly replace Luis Garcia wide on the right and I don't think the Spanaird will be to happy about that. Good signing Rafa.

Tottenham have today announced the signing of Newcastle midfielder Jermaine Jenas for around £8million. The England midfielder has been unhappy at St. James' Park for the last couple of weeks and made it clear he wanted out. Martin Jol has been trying to sign him all summer and now he has.

Jenas becomes Tottenham's seventh signing of the summer and his arrival could see some players leaving Tottenham. Michael Brown could be one of the first to leave after Wigan have shown an intreste to take him to the JJB Stadium.

Jenas is a good buy for Spurs and I believe he will do very well at White Hart Lane. Tottenham have made some good transfers over the summer as they go in search of European football. I'm sort of confused about who will play in Tottenham's centre of midfield either Jenas, Carrick or Davids

Yeah it may be hard to believe but Sunderland keeper Mark Poom is in talks with Arsenal over a possible move to Highbury. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is still looking for a new keeper because both of his goalies now Jens Lehman and Manuel Almunia to be honest aren't very good. Uruguyan Sebastian Viera has been heavily linked with a move to the Gunners over the last couple of weeks but a deal fell through at the last minute.

Wenger when he finds out who he is signing

However it emerged over the weekend that Arsene Wenger had taken note that Poom was available for a free transfer and Wenger did confirm that the Estonian shot stopper had held talks in London. Poom is in the later stage of his career but he has proved to be a good goalkeeper at both Derby and Sunderland and you never know he may just be as good at Arsenal.

Poom to Arsenal, What is the world coming to? I know he was a good keeper at Derby and Sunderland but Arsenal. To be honest I don't think he will get a game if he signs but at least he will be at a team that actually achieve's something. Wenger what are you donig you have a good bit of money, USE IT ON SOMEONE GOOD!

Aston Villa have today completed the signing of PSV defender Wilfred Bouma for a fee of £3.5million. Bouma has signed a three year deal at Villa Park after completing a medical at Villa's training ground today.

O'Leary made the move for Bouma because of continued concerns surrounding the fitness of Martin Laursen. Liverpool made a late enquiry for the Dutch defender but it was too late and he has signed for Villa. Bouma is Villa's sixth new arrival of the summer, as O'Leary looks to turn Villa into European contenders this season.

I believe Bouma is a great signing for Villa and he will help them achieve their goals this season. I think £3.5million is a good deal for Villa and he will make a good parterniship with Villa captain Olof Mellberg. This is a very bad deal for PSV because they are losing a quality player and only recieving £3.5million.

Real Madrid striker Michael Owen is set to sign for Premiership side Newcastle for a fee of £17million on a four year contract. The England striker had held talks with both Newcastle and his former club Lverpool yesterday and has decided to sign for the Magpies. Owen is currently undergoing a medical on Tyneside and he successfully comes through that he will become the club's new record signing.

The England striker has been linked with a move back to the Premiership all summer after Real went out and signed two new strikers, Robinho and Julio Baptista. The news is a massive boost for Newcastle boss Graeme Souness following his side's dismal start to the season which has seen Newcastle fail to win a game and score a goal this season.

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd hailed the signing of Owen as one of his proudest moments at the club. "Bringing Michael to St. James' Park will rank alongside the signing of Alan Shearer as my proudest moment at Newcastle United," Shepherd told the club's official website.

Michael Owen becomes Newcastle's second big signing of the last couple of weeks after they signed Albert Luque from Deportivo for £10million. Owen is set to make his debut against Fulham in two weeks considering all goes well with the medical.

Newcastle fans will be delighted with this signing because the club ly second last in the Premiership and this move is sure to move them up the table. Personally I thought Owen would move back to Liverpool but I'm sure he will do well at Newcastle. I believe Owen and Luque up front for Newcastle will be one of the best in the league.

Legendary referee Pierluigi Collina(45) has retired after he was told that he would only be allowed referee Serie B matches. "After 28 years I've decided to hand in my resignation," said Collina. "People must believe in a referee. In the end, we have all lost out." "I have slept less these last few nights than on the eve of the World Cup final. "For me it wouldn't have been a problem to referee in Serie B, but either they (the FIGC) have faith in us referees or they don't. "If they don't, then we have to go. Without trust we cannot move forward."

Collina, who has been voted the world's best referee five times, took charge of the 2002 World Cup final between Brazil and Germany. He was due to retire in the summer but the Italian football association extended the maximum age for referees to 46 to accommodate him for a further year. Collina will replaced for the 2006 World Cup qualifier between Spain and Serbia and Montenegro on 7 September by England's Graham Poll.

All I have to say about Collina is what a great man.

Michael Owen has today come nearer a return to England as he held talks with both Newcastle and Liverpool. Owen had on Monday his first meeting with Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez since leaving Anfield, before meeting a Newcastle delegation for more talks. Owen favours a move to Liverpool, but the club only want to pay a similar fee to the £8m Madrid paid for him.

Newcastle have already agreed a £17million fee with Real for the free scoring striker, but a return to Anfield seems more likely in the next 24 hours. Liverpool would offer Owen Champions League football in a World Cup season, while Newcastle are second bottom of the Premiership and have yet to score a goal in four games.



Owen was left out of Real Madrid's squad to face Cadiz on Sunday and had a two and a half hour meeting with Liverpool Rafa Benitez. The 25-year-old striker spent several hours with a delegation including Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd, manager Graeme Souness and captain Alan Shearer.



Owen has said before that he would only move to Newcastle on a season long loan deal, although the Magpies are trying to sign him in a permanent deal.

Owen is a great player and I'm sure any club in the Premiership would want him in their team. I think Owen will end up going to Liverpool because they have Champions League football while Newcastle don't have any European football this season, also he used to play for Liverpool and still loves the club. Real would obviously prefer if he went to Newcastle because they would gain more money but sure Real aren't stuck for money.

Tottenham striker Mido is set appeal against his red card that he picked up in Saturday's Premiership against Chelsea. Referee Rob Styles issued the card after Mido appeared to elbow Chelsea defender Asier del Horno. "The decision to send me off was very unfair, as I was only protecting myself and not elbowing the player," said Mido on his official website.

"The referee was about 25 metres away and instead of asking the linesman he was quick to show me the red card." The 22-year-old, who is on loan from Italian club Roma, faces a three-match ban.

Mido added: "It was a normal collision, I went for the ball and even a yellow card is too much. "I hope that the Football Association cancels my suspension so that I could participate against Liverpool. We have appealed and I am still waiting for their decision."

I think this red card will be changed to a yellow because it wasn't as if he went for the player. Many players have had there red cards overturned and I think Mido's chance's of his card to be over turned are good. I have heard that Spurs are set to make a bid to sign Chelsea striker Carlton Cole and I don't think Mido will be happy about that.

Roy Keane is back in Brain Kerr's Ireland squad for their crucial World Cup qualifier against France at Landsdowne Road on September 7th. Keane was absent from the squad that lost 2-1 to Italy with Kerr preferring to rest the influential Manchester United midfielder for the friendly. However, Keane is back for Ireland and is now in line to once again go head-to-head with Arsenal's former skipper Patrick Vieira, who now plays for Juventus. Robbie Keane is also back in the squad after he missed the friendly against Italy, Wigan's Graham Kavanagh is also back in the squad.

Ireland squad in full:Given (Newcastle), Kenny (Sheff Utd), Colgan (Dundee United), Harte (Levante), Finnan (Liverpool), Cunningham (Birmingham), Carr (Newcastle), O'Brien (Portsmouth), Doherty (Norwich), Dunne (Manchester City), Breen (Sunderland), Holland (Charlton), O'Shea, Roy Keane, Miller (all Manchester United), Kilbane (Everton), Kavanagh (Wigan), A Reid (Tottenham), S Reid (Blackburn), Duff (Chelsea), Robbie Keane (Tottenham), Morrison (Crystal Palace), Elliott (Sunderland).

The Irish squad looks great and fingers crossed they can beat the French on September 7th. Keane is a vital member of the Irish squad and without him Ireland struggle and also the same with Robbie. It will be though for Ireland with all of the French players coming out of retirement like Zidane and Thuram but I think we might just win.

The close of the transfer window is getting nearer and it is about the time when club's try and bring in new faces because the window will be shut up until the 1st of January.

The transfer window is officially closed to all Premiership clubs on the 31st of August, So expect alot of post in the next few days.

PSV Eindhoven defender Lee Young-Pyo looks set to join Tottenham, according to the Dutch club. "There are still some discussions going on, but there is a strong chance that he is going to Tottenham Hotspur," said PSV coach Guus Hiddink.

The 28-year-old star played a key role in helping South Korea reach the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup under the guidance of Hiddink. Lee also starred in PSV's run to the Champions League semi-finals this year.

Left back Lee in action
Lee, over the past few weeks has been very keen on the move to White Hart Lane. Tottenham are also looking to bring in Newcastle midfielder Jermaine Jenas before the transfer window close's on Wednesday.

I believe Young-Pyo will be a good signing for Tottenham as they have been lacking a left back in their squad so far this season. I have heard somewhere that a £2million fee had been agreed between the two clubs and that he is set to undergo a medical today. I wouldn't be surprised if we saw some more new faces at Spurs before the close of the transfer window.

David James has been left out of the England set up for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Wales and Northern Ireland. The Manchester City goalkeeper pays the price for his poor display in England's 4-1 friendly defeat by Denmark and is replaced by West Brom's Chris Kirkland. Glen Johnson of Chelsea and Alan Smith of Man United are also left out while Liverpool full back Stephen Warnock is given his first international call-up. Darren Bent keeps his place and Crystal Palace's Andy Johnson is recalled.

England squad in full: Robinson (Tottenham), Green (Norwich), Kirkland (Liverpool); Young (Charlton), Warnock (Liverpool), P Neville (Everton), A Cole (Arsenal), Carragher(Liverpool), Ferdinand (Man Utd), Terry (Chelsea), Upson (Birmingham), Beckham (Real Madrid), Gerrard (Liverpool), Lampard (Chelsea), J Cole (Chelsea), Hargreaves (Bayern Munich), Wright-Phillips (Chelsea), Jenas (Newcastle), Carrick (Tottenham), Richardson (Man Utd); Owen* (Real Madrid), Rooney (Man Utd), Defoe (Tottenham), A Johnson (Crystal Palace), Bent (Charlton)
*suspended for Wales game

I don't really think James is any good for England but for Man City he is a great keeper. I don't think Man City will be to bothered about this because they now have James fresh and ready for the Manchester Derby which is on the 10th of September. It looks like a pretty strong side and it is good to see John Terry and Steven Gerrard are in the side because they were doubts.

Newcastle have lost 2-0 against Man United today putting pressure on boss Graeme Souness. Newcastle have got of to a terrible start to the new season and already people are predicting that Souness will get the sack. Goals from Wayne Rooney and Ruud Van Nistelrooy sunk Newcastle and new striker Albert Luque who they signed during the week for £10million failed to make an impact. Man United maintained their 100% record for the season as they look to win back the title from Chelsea, Charlton also maintained their 100% record for the season with a 3-0 win away from home against Middlesborough who played terrible.

Souness to be sacked?

I think Souness is definitly one of the favourites to be the first Premiership manager to get the sack along with Portsmouth manager Alain Perrin. I saw during the week in the paper that Souness is 5/4 to be the first Premiership manager to get the sack, having said all that this is a good win for United and I'm sure Sir Alex will be delighted that both of his strikers were on the scoresheet. Charlton are looking good so far this season and boss Alan Curbishley will be looking for it to carry on as they go in search of Europe.

Name: Aston Villa
Nickname: The Villans

Manager: David O’Leary
Captain: Olof Mellberg

Stadium: Villa Park
Capacity: 43,000

Star Player: Milan Baros
Young Gun: Steven Davis
One To Watch: Luke Moore

Top goal-scorer of all-time: Billy Walker(224)
Most Appearances: Charlie Aitken(660 games)

Profile:

Aston Villa have brought together a mixture of youth and experience of the past few years and it has helped them to become a good Premiership side. David O’Leary is a very intelligent manager and has pulled of some great signings of late including Czech Republic striker Milan Baros from Liverpool for £6.5million. Villa’s best ever finish in the English Premiership was runner up’s in the the 1992-1993 season. Villa had a great run in the U.E.F.A Cup in 1998 reaching the quarter finals. I believe all Villa fans can look forward to a great future under Irish manager David O'Leary and who nows maybe they can reach Europe this season.

Everton are set to sign Porto left back Nuno Valente for a fee of £1million subject to a medical. The Portugal international leaves Porto after they asked him to not play for his nation in order to concentrate on his club football. The 30 year old Portugese player has been said to have signed a one or two year contract with Everton. The player has revealed that an agreement is in place on both his price and his contract at Everton, and that he will travel to England to complete a medical.

Valente in action for Porto

"I leave a little disillusioned with many people, but I will talk about that later," Valente told 'O Jogo'. "This is a moment of great sadness for me after everything have done with Porto. "The club had its reasons and I respect them but I have mine as well and I have my opinion on that."I want to thank the fans or the way they have treated me and I will continue to support them."The 30-year-old's first trip to Everton will be brief as he will soon join up with the Portugal squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Russia and Luxembourg.Both Bolton and Spurs were also believed to be interested in the defender, but it appears that it is David Moyes who has got his man.

Nuno Valente is a good defender and £1million seems like a very good price for Everton. Over the last couple of years he has been strongly linked with a move to the Premiership but nothing happened but now it looks as though he will join Premiership side Everton. David Moyes will be looking to bring in a few more fresh face's before the close of the transfer window but at least now he has Valente.

Liverpool have tonight won the Super Cup in Monaco against Russian side CSKA Moscow. The match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes thanks to goals from Cisse(Liverpool) and Carvalho(CSKA). The tie finished 3-1 to Liverpool after extra time thanks to goals from Cisse and Garcia. This trophy will hopefully help Liverpool go on and have a good season.

Liverpool win Super Cup

Everton are poised to complete the signing of Dutch winger Andy Van Der Mayde. The 27 year old never really showed his full potential at Inter Milan in Italy but he is hoping that the Premiership will bring out the best in him. No fee has been agreed yet but if a deal is to go through then it will set Everton back £2million.


Van Der Meyde in action for Inter

Stelios Giannakopoulos has ended speculation surrounding his future by signing a new three-year contract with Bolton.The Greece international, who had been interesting Liverpool and Manchester City, was due to be out of contract next summer. However, Bolton wanted Stelios to remain at The Reebok and have swiftly secured his services for the foreseeable future.


Stelios commits future to Bolton

Sorry everybody I won't be updating tommarow with all of my usual Premiership predictions and fixture's and what not becasue I'm am going to see Man City play Portsmouth. Come On City!

Albert Luque will arrive at Newcastle United on Friday for a medical, after a fee in the region of £10 million was agreed with the striker's club Deportivo La Coruna. Agent Francis Martin exclusively told Sky Sports that an accord had been reached over the player and that he would seal a move to The Premiership this week. "Tomorrow [Friday] morning, Newcastle will send a plane for Luque and his father," said Martin. "We are confident that the player will pass the medical and sign a contract." Luque himself expressed his delight at the chance of playing in England, saying: "I am happy that a deal has been done. "The Premiership is an excellent league.

Luque in action for Deportivo

Luque also said that it's up to the manager but he was ready to play on Sunday against Man United if all goes well with the medical. The move had seemed deadlocked but Newcastle have been busy trying to reinforce their squad before next Wednesday's deadline as they remain goalless in this season's Premiership after three games. Newcastle also had a bid accepted in the week for Real Madrid striker Michael Owen but have now cooled their intrest because Owen only wants a loan deal.

Luque is a great player and I think The Premiership will suit him and he will virtually be guarenteed a place in the starting eleven at St. James' Park because Newcastle are very short on striker's. I believe £10million is a good bit of business by Newcastle because he is a proven goal scorer at the highest level. Deportivo will gain financially but they will be losing a great player in Luque.

Here are all of the Groups for the 2005/2006 Champions League:

Group A
Bayern Munich(Germany)
Juventus(Italy)
Club Brugge(Belgium)
Rapid Vienna(Austria)

Group B
Arsenal(England)
Ajax(Holland)
Sparta Prague(Czech Republic)
FC Thun(Switzerland)

Group C
Barcelona(Spain)
Panathinaikos(Greece)
Werder Bremen(Germany)
Udinese(Italy)

Group D
Manchester United(England)
Villarreal(Spain)
Lille(France)
Benfica(Portugal)

Group E
AC Milan(Italy)
PSV Eindhoven(Holland)
Schalke(Germany)
Fenerbahce(Turkey)

Group F
Real Madrid(Spain)
Lyon(France)
Olympiakos(Greece)
Rosenborg(Norway)

Group G
Liverpool(England)
Chelsea(England)
Anderlecht(Belgium)
Real Betis (Spain)

Group H
Inter Milan(Italy)
Porto(Portugal)
Rangers(Scotland)
Artmedia Bratislava(Slovakia)

Best Group:Group G.
My Favourites:Barcelona.
My Outsiders:Inter Milan.

Crystal Palace have won the race for Birmingham striker Clinton Morrison who returns to Selhurst Park on a three-year deal. Palace saw off competition from several different Championship side's including Norwich, Southampton and Sheffield United to sign the Republic Of Ireland striker for a fee of £2million. Morrison left Palace to join Birmingham three years ago in a £4.25 million deal that saw Andy Johnson move in the opposite direction. Johnson has gone on to become one of the best strikers in the country while Morrison never really established himself at Birmingham only scoring 16 goals in 97 appearances.

Morrison in his old Palace days

Morrison managed 72 goals in 180 games in his first spell at Palace and Dowie will be hoping he can reproduce that kind of form and strike up a productive partnership with Johnson. It means Palace now have a wealth of attacking options with Johnson, Jonathan Macken, Dougie Freedman and Wayne Andrews already on the books at Selhurst Park.

Morrison has really played well at International level for Ireland but has never really got a chance at Birmingham with the likes of Pandiani, Forssell and Heskey all higher up in Steve Bruce's plans. I believe that this is a good deal for Palace because it was only £2million and he could really be a good player at Championship level. Morrison is only 26 and he is still a quality player and will do well for Palace.

Man United have tonight qualified for the Champions League group stages with a 6-0 aggeragate win against Hungarian side Debrecen while Everton just missed out on a place in the group stages when they lost 4-2 on aggeragate to Spanish side Villarreal. Man United won 3-0 on the night thanks to goals scored by Heinze(2) and a great strike by Richardson. Everton lost 2-1 on the night but their goal was a great free kick scored by Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta, Villarreal's goals were scored by Sorin and Forlan. England will have four teams in Fridays draw for the group stages, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool and Man United. Everton will now play in the U.E.F.A Cup.

Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere has cut short his stay at Celtic to join West Ham on loan. The Frenchman failed to settle at Parkhead since arriving on a season-long loan last month and has now returned south to sign for West Ham. Aliadiere only made two apperances as a substitute for Celtic in their Champions League qualifying defeat to Artmedia Bratislava.

Aliadiere in action for Arsenal

The 22-year-old arrived at Celtic with high hopes but he has failed to break into Gordon Strachan's plans with the form of Craig Beattie and Shaun Maloney pushing him down the pecking order. ''I am very disappointed this has not worked out the way I thought it would," said Aliadiere. Aliadiere is the second striker to join the Hammers on a season long loan along with Manchester United striker David Bellion.

Aliadiere is a good striker with bags of potential and I for one thought that the move to Celtic was a great one but it is unfortunate that it didn't work out. I think that Aliadiere will help West Ham's chance's of surviving in The Premiership this year, but he won't just be put in the team because he will have to fight against Bellion, Sheringham and Harewood for a place in the West Ham starting eleven.

Newcastle United have today agreed a club record fee with Real Madrid for England strker Michael Owen. The Magpies are determined to bring the former Liverpool forward to St James' Park even though he has expressed a intrest in returning to Anfield. Owen has indicated he would only join Newcastle on loan but The Magpies have agreed terms with Real, a club they are used to doing business with after selling Jonathan Woodgate to the Spanish giants.

The striker seems certain to move on from the Bernabeu this summer, following crunch talks with Real president Florentino Perez on Tuesday, and he admitted it would likely be a straight fight between Liverpool and Newcastle for his signature. "Newcastle United have met Real Madrid's asking price and conditions," a statement on the club's website read. "The agreed fee will be a record transfer fee for Newcastle United. "It is now up to the player and his advisor."

I think Owen should be playing regularly in a World Cup year and I believe he should move back to England. Real will be making a great profit in this deal if it does go through because they only paid £8million and Antonio Nunez to Liverpool last summer and Nunez isn't really a great player. I think Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez should seriously consider buying Owen after the sale of Milan Baros to Aston Villa, But whoever Owen ends up with I'm sure he will have a great season.

As some of you may now I ran a poll a while ago about Michael Owen's future and what club would he be at come the end of August, here are the results:

Real Madrid=4 Votes.
Man united=1 Vote.
Newcastle=1 Vote.
Liverpool=8 Votes.
Other=4 Votes.

By the way my readers I recently had an interview with a fellow blogger of mine, Football Commentator, about Irish football. Click here to read it.

Tuesday 19:45

Birmingham V Middlesborough:This will be a close fought game with both sides looking for their first wins of the new Premiership season. Cathal's Prediction: Birmingham 1-2 Middlesborough.

Portsmouth V Aston Villa: I think Portsmouth may win this game but Aston Villa will really want to win their first game of the new season, Portsmouth will also be looking for their first win of the new season. Cathal's Prediction: Portsmouth 1-0 Aston Villa.

Sunderland V Man City: Sunderland have struggeld to settle into the Premiership and are coming bottom of the league on the other hand Man City have got of to a good start to the season and are coming 6th. Cathal's Prediction: Sunderland 0-2 Man City.

Milan Baros has today passed a medical and signed a four year deal with Aston Villa. The deal between Aston Villa and Liverpool is thought to be around £6.5million. The Czech Republic striker has already indicated that he is relishing the prospect of playing for Villa, whilst David O'Leary will be delighted to have signed such a high profile marksman. O'Leary had asked for patience after the sale of Darius Vassell to Manchester City this summer, and has now brought in a big name in world football. Baros has never quite replicated his international form at club level in England, but will be keen to show that topping the goalscorer charts at Euro 2004 was no fluke. Baros could make his debut against Blackburn at Villa Park on Saturday.

I beleive Baros is a good striker and will do very well for Villa but I think £6.5million is a bit to much in this day and age. I think the move is good for Baros because he will probably be guarenteed first team football at Villa and at Liverpool he was fourth choice striker behind Cisse, Morientes and Crouch. I believe Baros and Kevin Phillips up front for Villa could be one of the best striking parternership's in the Premiership.

Name:Arsenal

Manager: Arsene Wenger.
Captain: Thierry Henry.

Stadium: Highbury.
Capacity: 38,500.

Star Player: Thierry Henry.
Young Gun: Cesc Fabregas.
One To Watch: Phillpe Senderos.

Top goalscorer of all-time: Ian Wright (185)
Most Appearances: David O'Leary (773 games)

Profile:

Arsenal are recognised as one of the giants of English football and a consistent challenger for top honours. Many of Arsenal's sucsess has come from under the leadership of clever French man Arsene Wenger, who - as you all know - is their manager. Wenger has made so many quality signings in his time at Arsenal, Such as Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira (now departed for Juventus) and Robert Pires. Wenger's greatest achievements at the club so far were his two League and Cup double's in 1998 and 2002. Another great achievment for Wenger at the club was the 03-04 season when they didn't lose a single game in the League in that season and consequently went on to win the title for the third time under Wenger.

During the course of the season I am planning on doing a club profile on every team in the Premiership starting with Arsenal and hopefully all of the way down to Wigan. The profile will include the recent history of the club and basic information about the club. I should be underway with Arsenal by Tomarrow.

Birmingham have today completed the season long loan signing of Jiri Jarosik from Chelsea. Birmingham will have the option to make the deal permanent when the spell ends. Boss Steve Bruce told the Birmingham website: "He is a powerful midfielder who is very strong in the air. It is his versatility that really appeals." The 27-year-old Czech joined Chelsea from CSKA Moscow for a reported £3m in January but made only 20 appearances for the Premiership champions.

His chance's of winning a first team place at Chelsea became very slim when Chelsea completed the signing of Michael Essien from Lyon last week. Jarosik has been given the number 14 shirt vacated by Darren Anderton, who has moved to Wolves on a free transfer. The Czech international is in the squad for Birmingham's Premiership encounter with Middlesbrough on Tuesday.

I think Jarosik has been a major flop at Chelsea and I think this move can only be good for him. This deal is very good for Birmingham manager Steve Bruce because their is no fee involved. Jarosik is a decent midfield player but he has yet to show his quality to the Premiership and matbe this move will let him do that.

This is my team of the week for week two of the Premiership:

• GK:R.Carroll(West Ham).
  
• RB:C.Powell(Charlton).
  
• LB:E.Edman(Tottenham).
  
• CB:J.Terry(Chelsea).
  
• CB:R.Ferdinand(Man United).
  
• RM:M.G.Pedersen(Blackburn).
  
• LM:Z.Gera(West Brom).
  
• CM:J.Barton(Man City).
  
• CM:X.Alonso(Liverpool).
  
• ST:J.Defoe(Tottenham).
  
• ST:G.Horsfield(West Brom).

My Goal Of The Week Award this week goe's to a goal scored by Blackburn's midfielder Tugay. It was an absouloute screamer from outside the box, The ball came in from a cross and it came out to him and he absouloutly belted it into the back of the net.

If you agree or disagree with any of my decision's, don't be afraid to leave a comment.

Here are all of today's results and scorers:

13:30

Bolton 0-1 Everton. Scorers, Bolton: N/A. Everton: Bent. This is a great win for Everton away to Bolton and it will set them up nicely for their Champions League clash with spanish side Villareal, Everton are 2-1 down from the first leag. My prediction was: Bolton 1-1 Everton. Unlucky!

16:00

Chelsea 1-0 Arsenal. Scorers, Chelsea:Drogba. Arsenal: N/A. This is a brilliant win for Chelsea but their goal was very very lucky. Other good news for Chelsea is that their new £25million midfielder Michael Essien came on with 30 minutes to play. My prediction was: Chelsea 1-2 Arsenal. Oh no very bad prediction.

Here are all of today's results and scorers:

12:45

Man United 1-0 Aston Villa. Scorers, Man United:Van Nistelrooy. Aston Villa: N/A. Man United looked in good shape today as they strolled past Villa but they did lack a few goals. My Prediction was: Man united 3-1 Aston Villa. A well at least I said United would win.

15:00

Blackburn 2-1 Fulham. Scorers, Blackburn: Gamst Pedersen, Tugay. Fulham: McBride. A good win for Blackburn considering they lost their first game of the season 3-1 to West Ham. My prediction was: Blackburn 2-1 Fulham. Oh yeah!

Charlton 1-0 Wigan. Scorers, Charlton: Bent. Wigan: N/A. Charlton look as though they have got a brilliant strker for only £2.5million in the shape of Darren Bent, Who has scored three goals in two games. My prediction was: Charlton 1-1 Wigan. Only one goal off.

Liverpool 1-0 Sunderland. Scorers, Liverpool: Alonso. Sunderland: N/A. Liverpool looked in good shape without influental skipper Steven Gerrard who is been ruled out for about two weeks with a calf injury. My prediction was: Liverpool 2-0 Sunderland. Close!

Newcastle 0-0 West Ham. Scorers, Newcastle: N/A. West Ham: N/A. Nothing much to report on except fair play to West Ham for getting a draw away from home and with only ten men. My prediction was: Newcastle 2-2 West Ham. At least I said it was going to be a draw.

Tottenham 2-0 Middlesborough. Scorers, Tottenham: Defoe, Mido. Middlesborough: N/A. Tottenham maintained theie 100% record in the Premiership with a convincing win over Middlesborough and another plus for Spurs was that Edgar Davids played. My prediction was: Tottenham 1-0 Middlesborough. Very Very Very Close!

West Brom 2-1 Portsmouth. Scorers, West Brom: Horsfield (2). Portsmouth: Robert. A good win for West Brom and good to see Horsfield scoring two goals and good to see Robert scoring his first goal for Portsmouth. My prediction was: West Brom 2-1 Portsmouth. Oh Yeah!

17:45

Birmingham 1-2 Man City. Scorers, Birmingham: Butt. Man City: Barton, Cole. Man City looked in good shape against a pretty decent Birmingham side. Nicky Butt and Andy Cole both scored their first goals for their clubs. My prediction was: Birmingham 1-2 Man City. Oh Yeah!

Have Your say, Leave a comment.

Saturday 12:45

Man United V Aston Villa: United will be looking to build on last weeks win away to Everton and I think they will beat Aston Villa. Last week was good and bad for Villa, good for strikers but bad for defenders with a 2-2 draw at home to Bolton. Villa will need to be on top form to get anything from this fixture. Cathal's Prediction: Man United 3-1 Aston Villa.
(Live on Prem Plus from 12:30)

Saturday 15:00

Blackburn V Fulham: Blackburn had a really bad start to the season last week with a 3-1 defeat away to Premiership newboys West Ham and also had Paul Dickov sent off. Fulham had a boring start to the season with a 0-0 draw at home to Birmingham. Cathal's Prediction: Blackburn 2-1 Fulham.

Charlton V Wigan: Charlton had a great start to the new season away to Sunderland with a 3-1 win and they only had ten men, It alos appears they have that they have a top English striker now who scored 2 in that game, Darren Bent. Wigan gave a great account of themselves at home to Premiership Champions Chelsea, Holding them to the 93 minute only to lose to a wonderful strike from Hernan Crespo. Cathal's Prediction: Charlton 1-1 Wigan.

Liverpool V Sunderland: Liverpool should have really won away at Middlesborough in their season opener because Boro were reduced to ten men with a bit of time left but I think they will be ready for Sunderland. Sunderland were beaten by a side with ten men 3-1 and didn't play great, I suppose it's though in your first game back in the Premiership.Cathal's Prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Sunderland.

Newcastle V West Ham: Newcastle had a dissapointing start to the season with a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal but they are lucky that Jermaine Jenas's red card was changed to a yellow after the match. West Ham had a brilliant start to life in the Premiership with a 3-1 win at home to Blackburn. Cathal's Prediction: Newcastle 2-2 West Ham.

Tottenham V Middlesborough: Tottenham had a good start away from against Portsmouth with a 2-0 win and maybe a start to a great season. Middlesborough were lucky to get a draw at home to Liverpool last week after they had a man sent off and Liverpool came very close to scoring. Cathal's Prediction: Tottenham 1-0 Middlesborough.

West Brom V Portsmouth: West Brom got a good point away from home against Man City last week in a 0-0 draw. Portsmouth had a terrible start to the season losing at home to Tottenham 2-0 and not playing well at all. Cathal's Prediction: West Brom 2-1 Portsmouth.

Saturday 17:45

Birmingham V Man City: These two teams had absolutely boring start's to the season's with 0-0 draw's against West Brom and Fulham. It will be a very close match with the odd goal seperating them. Cathal's Prediction: Birminham 1-2 Man City.
(Live on Prem Plus from 17:30)

Sunday 13:30

Bolton V Everton: Bolton had a very entertaining start to the season with a 2-2 draw away at Aston Villa and with all of the goals coming in the first ten minutes. Everton had a poor start to the season with a 2-0 defeat at home to man united. Cathal' Prediction: Bolton 1-1 Everton.

Sunday 16:00

Chelsea V Arsenal: This is one of the biggest clashes of the season and it could be very tight. Both teams got of to good start's but Chelsea weren't very convincing at new boys Wigan only winning 1-0 with a 93 minute winner by Hernan Crespo. Arsenal looked in good shape at home to Newcastle winning 2-0. Cathal's prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea.

Have your say, Leave a Comment

Newcastle are reportably in talks with Deportivo about the possible purchase of their Spanish international striker Albert Luque. The Magpies have been looking all over Europe for a striker and have been knocked back several times. Chairman Freddy Shepherd flew into Spain on Thursday to try and agree a deal with Depor counterpart Augusto Cesar Lendoiro and the Spanish supremo has now disclosed that he is locked in talks with Shepherd. However, he revealed that a deal is still some way off, especially as other clubs are continuing to monitor the striker's situation.

Luque to Magpies?
Other brief news coming out of Newcastle today is that they have sealed the future of their promising young centre back Steven Taylor on a four year deal."I'm relieved to get the contract signed," Talyor told Newcastle's official website. Graeme Souness has predicted that Taylor will become a "real star" at Newcastle and the future looks bright for the England Under-21 international.


Taylor commits future to Magpies
This is very promising news coming out of Newcastle first about Luque and then the other good news that one of their best centre backs has commited his future to the club for another four years. If Newcastle could manage to sign Luque it would be an absouloutely great signing. I have heard that if Deportivo are going to sell they would want at least £10million for their player and I believe that that would be a good deal all round.

Tottenham manager Martin Jol has today stated his admiration for Newcastle midfielder Jermaine Jenas and Feyernood striker Dirk Kuyt. Spurs are known to be interested in Jenas and are believed to have had at least one offer rejected for him already. Talks of a swap deal involving Robbie Keane continues to gather pace and Jol admits Jenas is a player he likes. "I think he is an international box to box player," Jol told Sky Sports News. Jenas is apparently unhappy at Newcastle and is expected to leave before the close of the transfer window.

Jenas to Spurs?

Jol also stated his intrest in signing Dirk Kuyt from Dutch club Feyernood, after the sale of Fredi Kanoute to Sevilla. Dutch international Kuyt was a target for Liverpool earlier this summer, but now Spurs could offer him a route to England."There are so many players on our list and Dirk Kuyt is one of them," added Jol. "Any Dutch coach abroad knows about Kuyt - he is a player that anyone would want in their team. But there is a difference between making an offer for a player and getting him.


Kuyt to Spurs?

I beleive that Jenas and Kuyt would be quality signings for Tottenham but wheter or not they get both of them is another question. Newcastle are demanding at least £10million for their England international Jermaine Jenas, but Feyernood are yet to respond to the comments made by Jol about their Dutch international striker Dirk Kuyt. Tottenham look a really strong outfit this year with the arrivals of Dutch ace Edgar Davids and co and if they were to get any of these two players they could push for a top four finish.

Spanish side Sevilla have today completed the signing of Mali striker Fredi Kanoute from Tottenham for a fee of £4.4million. The 27-year-old has signed a four-year contract after passing a medical with the La Liga club, who recently sold striker Julio Baptista to Real Madrid. "With a couple of days training I'll be ready to play and I hope to adapt as quickly as possible," said Kanoute as he was unveiled to the Spanish media.

Kanoute will be competing with two South American's in the shape of Javier Saviola and Luis Fabiano for a place in the Sevilla starting eleven. Kanoute added: "I decided to come here because I knew that both the club's president and sports director wanted me and that was very important for me. "I like the Spanish league and I think this is a good opportunity."

Kanoute in action for his now ex-club Spurs

I beleive Kanoute made the right decision in leaving Tottenham because if he wasn't getting a regular place in the team why should he stay but I'm not sure he made the right decision in joining Sevilla. I for one would have liked if he had of stayed in the Premiership maybe with Newcastle because they were reportably linked with him. I personally beleive he will turn out to be a big hit in La Liga and maybe do a Diego Forlan. I wish him all the best in Spain.

Here are all of the results from Wednesday Home Nations International's Friendlies.

Austria 2-2 Scotland. Scorers, Austria: Ibertsberger, Standfest. Scotland: Miller, O'Connor. Scotland played well throughout the game and deserved the win but in the end it's only a friendly. My Prediction was 2-2. Yeahh I'm right.

Denmark 4-1 England. Scorers, Denmark: Rommedahl, Tomasson, Gravgaard, Larsen. England: Rooney. England tonight must feel so humiliated at losing 4-1 in a game were they were favourite's but as I said before it's only a friendly.My Prediction 1-2. Oh no I'm miserably wrong.

Ireland 1-2 Italy. Scorers, Ireland: Reid. Italy: Pirlo, Gilardino. Ireland will be a little bit disappointed with this result because it is the first time they have lost at home under Brian Kerr. My Prediction was 1-1. At least This time I wasn't as far away as last time.

Wales 0-0 Slovenia. Scorers, Wales: N/A. Slovenia: N/A. I would say Wales would be a little disappointed not to have beaten Slovenia in front of their home fans. My Prediction was 3-1. Oh no not again I'm wrong.

Sorry I didn't have the Northern Ireland game, I didn't realise they were playing.

Have your say on your country's game, Leave a comment.

Austria V Scotland: I am going to say this game will end in a score draw.
Prediction:Austria 2-2 Scotland.

Denmark V England: I am going to say England to win but it will be close.
Prediction:Denmark 1-2 England.

Ireland V Italy:I am going to say a good battle between both sides that will end in a draw.
Prediction:Ireland 1-1 Italy.

Wales V Slovenia: Wales to win comfortably in front of their home fans.
Prediction:Wales 3-1 Slovenia.

Please don't be afraid to have your say with a comment.

West Ham have today completed the season long loan signing of Manchester United striker David Bellion. The deal has been pushed through by Hammers boss Alan Pardew even though the player is still not back to full fitness. Bellion broke his leg towards the end of last season, just when he was gaining some momentum in the reserve side at Old Trafford, and his fitness must still be a slight concern for his new club. His agent Mike Morris confirmed the deal this morning and also said "It is not with a view to a permanent deal as he will go back to Manchester United at the end of the season.

Bellion in action for United
I personally beleive this is a good signing for West Ham because they don't have to pay a penny for a decent striker. Man United boss Sir Alex Ferguson signed Bellion for a fee of £3million from Sunderland two years ago and it is fair to say he hasn't lived up to his price tag. Bellion, 22, has failed to land a first team spot at Old Trafford but hopefully this move will let him show everybody he was worth the £3million Man United spent for him.

England are to bid to host the 2018 World Cup. The finals are not likely return to Europe for 12 years after the 2006 tournament in Germany.But Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick hopes England can host them then."I think we would bid further down the line. The next time that it should come to Europe is probably 2018 so we've got enough time to get ourselves organised," he revealed today."It's right and proper for the London Olympics bid to take precedence. But why wouldn't we go for it?"England hosted the World Cup in 1966 and also successfully staged Euro 96.

England 2018?

I think Hosting the World Cup in England would not only be good for them but it would also be good for all of Britan and Ireland. I think it's a bit early though to be talking about the 2018 World Cup after all it is 13 years away.I doubt much of the players playing for England at the moment will take part at all in the 2018 World Cup no matter where it's held, just think David Beckham will be 43 three when 2018 comes around.

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has completed the signing of Hidetoshi Nakata on a season-long loan deal. The move for the Fiorentina playmaker is subject to a work permit after he successfully came through a medical. Sam Allardyce has been looking to strengthen his attacking options ahead of Bolton's U.E.F.A. Cup campaign. Nakata is delighted at the chance to move to England with Bolton. "I am very pleased to begin a new experience in the Premier League," Nakata told the club's official website. "I'm pleased the deal is sorted out," said Allardyce. "The player's medical was fine and we have now sorted out the work permit. "He is an exciting acquisition for us and will add much needed strength to our squad."

Nakata in action for Fioretina

I personally think Nakata is a great signing because over the years he has been knowing to score a huge amount of goals. The season long loan deal is great for Bolton because they don't have to pay any transfer fee. I beleive he will help Bolton in there first ever time of being in the U.E.F.A. and he will also help them in the Premiership. The Japanese coach, whoever he is will be happy with the move because, as you no Nakata is Japanese, and he will gain great Premiership experience before the World Cup in 2006.

Lyon have today confirmed that they have agreed a fee with Chelsea for the sale of Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien. The Premiership champions have been pursuing the powerful African for the majority of the summer, but Lyon were adamant they would not lower their demand for upwards of £25 million. It appears today that Chelsea have met with their valuation for the player and Essien will sign for Chelsea on Tuesday provided he passes a medical.

Chelsea have been following Essien all summer because of his great form for Lyon in the Champions League. Essien will be the third big signing of the summer for Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho after the purchase's of Shaun Wright-Phillips and Assier Del Horno and he will also be Mourinho's most expensive player since he has been at Stamford Bridge.

Roman gets his man.
I beleive Essien is a great midfield player with an eye for goal, however I do not beleive he is worth the £25million Chelsea are paying for him. I think it was a great bit of business by Lyon because if Chelsea did not have their millions I think he would of only been worth about £15million. I personally beleive he will be a great addition to the Chelsea squad but I think other players won't be to happy seen the squad grow even larger.

West Brom have today completed the signing of Wigan striker Nathan Ellington for a fee of £3million. The 24-year-old striker, who passed a medical on Friday, has penned a four-year contract with The Baggies. Ellington was one of the main reasons why Wigan were promoted to the Premiership, netting an impressive 59 goals in 134 league games during his time with them but he was said to be unhappy at the club. Bryan Robson now has a whole lot of strikers at his disposal with Ellington joining the likes of Robert Earnshaw, Diomansy Kamara, Geoff Horsfield, Kevin Campbell and Kanu.

I beleive Ellington was superb for Wigan last year in the Championship but wheter or not he can score as many goals in the Premiership I do not no. I personally beleive he is a good signing at £3million for West Brom and I think he can do just as good as Andy Johnson did last year in the Premiership. I think it will boost West Brom's chances of staying up and it will be a massive blow for Wigan's chances.

This is my team of the week for week one of the Premiership:

• GK: P. Robinson (Tottenham)


• RB: G. Neville (Man United)


• LB: A. Cole (Arsenal)


• CB: J. Carragher (Liverpool)


• CB: M. Upson (Birmingham)


• RM: W. Routledge (Tottenham)
• CM: N. Reo-Coker (West Ham)


• CM: C. Reyna (Man City)


• LM: M. Etherington (West Ham)


• ST: D. Bent (Charlton)


• ST: W. Rooney (Man United)

My Goal Of The Week Award goes to a goal scored by Chelsea striker Hernan Crespo against Wigan, It was a stunning shot from just outside the box that flew into the top corner and it gave Chelsea the win in the last minute.

If you agree or disagree with any of my choices feel free to leave a comment.

Here are all of the results and scorers from Sunday's Premiership action

• Arsenal 2-0 Newcastle. Scorers, Arsenal: Henry(pen),Van Persie. Newcastle: n/a. Arsene Wenger will be very happy with this result because both Chelsea and Man United both won. Newcastle manager Graeme Souness will be very disapointed in his midfielder Jermaine Jenas after he was sent off after just 32 minutes.



• Wigan 0-1 Chelsea. Scorers, Wigan: n/a. Chelsea: Crespo. Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will be one of the most releived men in the world after he saw his side grab a late late late late late winner against Premiership new boys Wigan. Wigan manager Paul Jewell will be absouloutly gutted after he saw his side hold Chelsea to a draw until the 93 minute.

My legions of fans will no doubt be shocked, but quietly impressed to see the blog has undergone, like Michael Jackson, major surgery. A new layout, I felt was needed for a new football season. I hope it will encourage more people to vote on the poll and help more people leave here feeling warm inside. Feng Shui - internet style! Perhaps there's a buck or two in this? Probably not.

Andy Johnson has kept his place in the England squad for next week's friendly with Denmark. It was thought that he may lose his place in the squad because of his club Crystal Palace's relagation, but Sven Goran Eriksson has kept faith with the striker. Another Championship player in the shape of Norwich's Robert Green also retains his place in the squad.

The England squad to face Denmark in full:

Goalkeepers:Robinson (Tottenham), James (Man City), Green (Norwich)

Defenders:G Neville (Man Utd), G Johnson (Chelsea), A Cole (Arsenal), Ferdinand (Man Utd), Terry (Chelsea), Carragher (Liverpool), Upson (Birmingham)

Midfielders: P Neville (Everton), Beckham (Real Madrid), Gerrard (Liverpool), Lampard (Chelsea), J Cole (Chelsea), Hargreaves (Bayern Munich), Wright-Phillips (Chelsea), Jenas (Newcastle), Carrick (Tottenham)

Strikers:Owen (Real Madrid), Rooney (Man Utd), Defoe (Tottenham), A Johnson (Crystal Palace)

Here are all of the results and scorers from Saturdays Premiership action

• Aston Villa 2-2 Bolton. Scorers, Aston Villa:Phillips,Davis. Bolton:Davies,Campo. Bolton will be the happier of the two sides because a point away from home is a good result against Villa.



• Everton 0-2 Man United. Scorers, Everton: n/a. Man United: Van Nistelrooy,Rooney. Sir Alex Ferguson will be very happy with both of his strikers on the scoresheet.



• Fulham 0-0 Birmingham. Scorers, Fulham: n/a. Birmingham: n/a. I personally beleive Steve Bruce will be the happier of the two managers with a point away from home.



• Man City 0-0 West Brom. Scorers, Man City: n/a. West Brom: n/a. I beleive both managers will be resonablly happy with a draw because Stuart Pearce was without two of his key defenders and Bryan Robson got a draw away from home.



• Portsmouth 0-2 Tottenham. Scorers, Portsmouth: n/a. Tottenham: Talyor(og),Defoe. Martin Jol will be very happy with winning all three points away from home against Portsmouth.




• Sunderland 1-3 Charlton. Scorers, Sunderland: Gray. Charlton: Bent(2),Murphy. Alan Curbishly will be delighted with this win because last season his teams away form was appauling.




• West ham 3-1 Blackburn. Scorers, West Ham: Sheringham, Reo-Coker, Etherington. Blackburn: Todd. Alan Pardew will be dilighted with his sides win in their first game since they were promoted to the Premiership.

  
  

• Middlesborough 0-0 Liverpool. Scorers, Middlesborough: n/a. Liverpool: n/a. Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez will be disapointed that his side didn't gain all three points after Middlesborough's defender Ugo Ehiogu was sent off with twenty minutes left.
  
  

This is my predictions for the new Premiership season and every teams key players

1st.Chelsea. Key Player=Frank Lampard.
2nd.Man United. Key Player=Wayne Rooney.
3rd.Arsenal. Key Player=Thierry Henry.
4th.Liverpool. Key Player=Steven Gerrard.
5th.Tottenham. Key Player=Edgar Davids.
6th.Middlesborough. key Player=Yakubu.
7th.Man City. Key Player=Darius Vassell.
8th.Everton. Key Player=Phill Neville.
9th.Bolton. Key Player=Jared Borgetti.
10th.Aston Villa. Key Player=Kevin Phillips.
11th.Newcastle. Key Player=Scott Parker.
12th.Charlton. Key Player=Darren Bent.
13th.Blackburn. Key Player=Craig Bellamy.
14th.Portsmouth. Key Player=Laurent Robert.
15th.Birmingham. Key Player=Nicky Butt.
16th.Sunderland. Key Player=Jon Stead.
17th.West Ham. Key Player=Anton Ferdinand.
18th.Fulham. Key Player=Heidar Helguson.
19th.West Brom. Key Player=Darren Carter.
20th.Wigan. Key Player=Jason Roberts.

If you agree or disagree with any of my predictions please don't be afraid to leave a comment.

Manchester United have today pleaded to fans to come to their Champions league qualifier against Hungarian champions Debrecen at Old Trafford. For the first time in recent memory, United will throw open the turnstiles until kick-off in an effort to boost the attendance in a stadium whose 67,500 capacity has already been reduced by the decision not to open the top tier of Old Trafford's massive North Stand. A spokesperson for the club said: "We're delighted we can offer some people the opportunity to see Manchester United play when they may never have been to Old Trafford before or been very occasionally. The fixture has coincided with one of the most popular holiday weeks of the summer."

Old Trafford I personally think Man United fans are right to not attend the game against Debrecen because it would just be supporting Malcom Glazer. I don't think this will change Man United's performance but I think it will annoy the United board. I am still wondering wheter or not Rio Ferdinand will be booed or not tonight because on Monday he signed a new deal but I think some United fans will still be annoyed because he was stalling so much. I think Man United will comfortablly win this tie and I expect them to qualify for the group stages.

Tottenham have today been told by Newcastle that they will have to double their £6million for Jermaine Jenas to stand any chance of landing the England international. Jenas is currently unhappy at St.James' park and he said he wants to leave the club and Newcastle don't want an unhappy player on their books so they want to sell and could do with cash quickly to invest in Graeme Souness's rebuilding plans. Tottenham are the only club so far to make an official approach for the player but papers suggest that Arsenal manager Arsne Wenger is also keen on him to replace the gap left by the departure of former captain Patrick Vieira.

I think Jenas is a quality player with bags of energy. I think he is right to want to leave Newcastle because they have underachieved in the past few seasons and Jenas is as good as any midfielder in the premiership. I think he will end up going to Arsenal for £10-12million and I think will be the best club for him, but whatever club he goes to, they will gain tremendously with him.

Rio Ferdinand has today finally put pen to paper over a new deal that will keep him at Manchester United for another four years. He has been the subject of plenty of abuse from Man Utd fans over the past few weeks because he has been stalling on signing a new contract for months. The transfer speculation over the weekend reached an all time high as newspaper reports were claiming Ferdinand would be left off the Man Uniteds first Champions League fixture against Debrecen. Ferdinand's future is now secure at Old Trafford until 2009 but if the United fans are happy with Ferdinand remains to be seen.

I think Ferdinand is a quality defender and this new contract can only help United's title bid. I think some United fans will still be angry at him because of all his stalling over the new deal but I think the majority will be very pleased to have Ferdinand at the club for another 4 years. I think Alex Ferguson will be very pleased about Rio signing and I personally think that this will bolster Man United's chances of winning the Title.

Hull City fans face lenghty bans after taunting QPR supporters with vile chants about the London suicide bombings. The FA last night promised to investigate reports that several Hull fans sang: "You're just a town full of bombers" and "Not enough Londoners dead" at Saturday's Championship match at the KC Stadium. And the chairman of the Football Supporters' Federation, Malcolm Clarke, has also pledged to help identify the culprits following dozens of complaints from disgusted Rangers fans. Clarke, 59, said: "Chants like this are disgraceful and bring shame on those singing them."

Many QPR fans walked out when they heard the songs and an embarrassed Hull City chairman Adam Pearson has vowed to catch out the morons involved. The FA have also promised an investigation. "We are aware of reports and we will be looking into the matter."We will be contacting both clubs for their observations," an FA spokesman said. "Thank you all you idiots for spoiling what should have been a great celebration," wrote one Hull fan on a supporters' website.

I think the Hull fans that did this should be ashamed of themselves and I think they should be banned from every football stadium in the Country. They ruined the other Hull fans day of celebration with their promotion to the Championship and they certainly ruined QPR fans day. I think the F.A will have to fine them a significant ammount of money for their actions. My opinion for those Hull fans who were making those silly chants:POOR SHOW.

Chelsea have today won the Community sheild against Arsenal 2-1 thanks to two goals from Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba. Drogba gave Chelsea the lead after 8 minutes with a quality goal which brought the Chelsea fans to their feet. The rest of the half was mainly a midfield battle with very little chances but the game came to life on 52 minutes when Drogba shrugged off tackles from Philippe Senderos, Lauren and Lehmann before guiding a rising shot into the net to make it 2-0 to Chelsea.Cesc Fabregas quickly pulled a goal back for Arsenal, sliding the ball in after Fredrik Ljungberg crossed. With 22 minutes remaining Mourinho introduced Shaun Wright Phillips, though the former Manchester City winger had a quiet game. Final score Chelsea 2 Arsenal 1.

This was a pretty decent game for a Community Sheild match. I personally think that Drogba's first goal was the goal of the Match and I think the man of the match was also Didier Drogba with his two well taken goals. I think that this trophy won't be the only trophy Chelsea will win this season I also think that Arsenal gave a decent account of themselves.

Alan Shearer has admitted today that Newcastle want to sign Michael Owen but believes there is strong competition to sign the Real Madrid striker. "Any team looking to score goals need not look further than Michael Owen," Shearer told Radio Five Live. "I know our manager Graeme Souness would love him here and he'd be a great asset - but he will have a few options. "I think there will be quite a few clubs after his signature despite one or two denying they are after him."Newcastles chances of signing him aren't as great as Man Utd because they have not qualified for any european competition this season.

I think that Michael Owen should seriously consider moving back to the Premiership because he has failed to be featured in the first team regularly for Real Madrid since he left Liverpool last summer. I personally think that the best move for Owen would be to Manchester United because he would be playing in european competition and if he moved to Newcastle he wouldn't. I think he will be playing in the Premiership this season but for how much he leaves Real for I do not now.

Wigan have today completed the signing of senegalese striker Henri Camara for a fee of £3million. Henri Camara has performed an amazing U-turn and decided to sign for Wigan.The Latics looked to have sealed a move for the Senegal marksman after agreeing a fee with Wolves, but the African failed to agree terms. Southampton were interested on the man who spent time at St Mary's on loan last season. However, the 28-year-old has now decided to join the Premiership newcomers, with boss Paul Jewell confirming that Camara has signed on at The JJB Stadium. The £3million is a new record for Wigan to spend on any player.

I think Camara is a decent player with bags of pace but I do think that £3million is a bit on the steep side. I think his goals for Wigan will definitly improve their chances of staying up. I think that if he hits any kind of form for Wigan they will comfortablly avoid the drop. I think that it is a good move for both player and club.