When Calum Chambers’ £16m transfer to Arsenal was complete, the deal was met by both uncertainty and optimism about the youngster’s future.
Uncertainty because many supporters were unsure as to whether Chambers would settle into the first-team, and actually prove his worth in the side. But also optimism: Chambers has plenty of international experience with England, reiterated by the amount of international caps he’s tallied in the youth ranks (32 and counting).
A 20-year-old from Southampton’s academy system, with the fee and terms of the deal being taken into consideration, it was definitely more of a long-term investment as opposed to a quick ‘big name’ fix.
Those fans who were worried that Chambers might not be good enough were effectively silenced in the early months of the campaign. His impressive displays in the annual Emirates Cup tournament, as well as when called upon in the starting XI, demonstrated how a run of good form and consistency can see you force your way into Arsène Wenger’s immediate first-team plans.
According to reports in both the BBC and Sky Sports over the last 24 hours, Premier League side Leicester City have activated Demarai Gray‘s release clause – which is believed to be £3.75million pounds.
The 19-year-old winger, currently at Championship club Birmingham City, was left out of his side’s matchday squad to face Brentford yesterday – meaning that the Blues were without him for the first time this campaign in all competitions.
In a game action-packed with plenty of opportunities for both sides, the Citizens snatched all three points after two moments of brilliance late on – from Yaya Touré and Sergio Agüero to sink the spirited Hornets away from home.
Manchester City maintained pace with their title rivals, whilst proving their doubters wrong in the process, as they sealed a dramatic comeback courtesy of two moments of individual brilliance in the final minutes at Vicarage Road.
Travelling away against a tough Watford side, it was never going to be an easy game for Manuel Pellegrini‘s side. He opted against any alterations to his starting line-up before kick-off, but the Hornets could have easily held a two-goal cushion inside the early exchanges. Buoyed by an energetic home crowd, Quique Sánchez Flores‘ men were playing with both confidence and quality – but were unable to convert their opportunities as the game continued.
2015 hasn’t been the best in terms of silverware, but has been an important one in terms of the development of Manchester City – as they aim to prove themselves as one of Europe’s elite sides.
2015. A year of development, transition and genuine progress for Manchester City. The Premier League title race was virtually over before it started, Chelsea‘s dominance meant they were certain favourites and despite late charges from both the Citizens and Arséne Wenger‘s Arsenal side, the Blues got their hands on the crown in May. Deservedly so.
But the months leading up to the new season, were particularly telling in the way things would transpire on and off-the-pitch for their rivals. The summer acquisitions of Raheem Sterling, Patrick Roberts, Fabian Delph, Nicolas Otámendi and Kevin de Bruynecertainly showed the club’s intent to move forward – improving both squad depth and maintaining high quality in the first-team.
Something that Chelsea, were unable to do. Upgrade sufficiently and sell their ‘deadwood’, which has left them in a tricky situation at the wrong end of the spectrum – ultimately also costing José Mourinhohis job at the helm more recently.
Success stories in all ranks
The development of the EDS and Ladies’ sides has also been a success story to behold, as the women made history by qualifying for the Champions League whilst the youth ranks continue to shine with ever-improving youngsters eager for their opportunity to assert their first-team credentials in the not-too-distant future. The likes of Manu García, Brandon Barker, Kean Bryan, Tosin Adarabioyo and in particular, Kelechi Iheanacho – have all proved their respective quality – giving the sky Blues a refreshing mix of youth and experience within.
They haven’t really got into their full stride yet, believe it or not, which is the scariest thing for their opponents. For the first time in a long time, they’ve managed to hold their own against tough opposition – including Juventus and Sevilla – amongst Europe’s elite, and as a result, topped Group D. Dynamo Kyiv await in the knockout rounds, a winnable two-legged fixture there. Prevail against the Ukranians, and they’ve got a decent opportunity to progress even further and then, who knows?
Sitting third in the League, they will be expected to take Arsenal down to the wire for the Premier League trophy – rightly so. With the likes of the aforementioned signings, as well as key attacking duo David Silva and Sergio Agüero gradually returning to 100% fitness, 2016 is looking like a promising year in terms of the trophy cabinet at Eastlands.
Despite their ups-and-downs, Ronald Koeman will know there is plenty of improvement to be made to his ever-improving Southampton side.
A comprehensive, impressive 4-0 thrashing over Premier Leaguetitle challengers Arsenal at St. Mary’s. Yes, you read that correctly. Southampton – who seem to be involved in a never-ending cycle of losing key players, summer after summer, ended their winless run in style in-front of a joyous home crowd on the south coast.
Long celebrates one of his two goals v Arséne Wenger’s travelling Gunners side. | Image: Getty
An emphatic victory to say the least, but the following paragraph typifies the underlying problem which remains within the So’ton side. Fast forward a few days, and they lost again. Away in east London, they conceded two second-half strikes courtesy of Michail Antonio and Andy Carroll – succumbing to a frustrating defeat, having held the lead too.
Somewhat harsh, given the distinct lack of recovery time between the two fixtures. Between full-time after their win over Arsenal, and kick-off against the Hammers, there were approximately 44 hours in total. Insufficient recovery periods, admittedly. But still – all Premier League clubs would have had the same/similar excuses, so why were they unable to cope effectively? Ultimately, it all refers back to a lack of consistency.
A promising start, messy middle to 2015
At the end of 2014, plenty of critics and rival supporters alike were beginning to embrace the distinct possibility that Southampton might actually qualify for the Champions League. They were gelling together perfectly, the likes of Victor Wanyama and Morgan Schneiderlin were the midfield enforcers – solid defensively, attack-wise, dangerous too. Graziano Pellé and Dušan Tadić were excellent, and frankly a joy to watch. They still are too, but last season was seeming more-and-more likely to be their breakthrough campaign in terms of European qualification.
Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle were all defeated by the mighty Saints in quick succession, a three-match winning streak in January suggested they would consequently assert their credentials as one of the League’s best sides.
But álas, the argument revolving around consistency. After their 2-1 win at St. James’ Park on 17 January, they only won five more fixtures for the rest of the campaign. An underwhelming five, when compared to the total of 16 that they’d played between January-May.
As opposed to a top four place, they finished in a respectable – but understandably disappointing – seventh place. 60 points, just four off Liverpool in 5th, two off Tottenham in 6th.
When you put it like that, their season seems like a disaster. By no means was it one, but in terms of the potential and quality within their side, their cutting edge was somewhat dull as the campaign proceeded to the business end.
Time for positivity and optimism
That’s, what they’ll be hoping doesn’t happen this time around. After another summer overhaul and the unfortunate Europa Leagueshortcomings at the start of the campaign, they sit in 12th position going into the New Year. Some shrewd acquisitions – including the likes of Cédric, Jordy Clasie and Virgil van Dijk – followed after some inevitable departures, including the likes of Schneiderlin and Nathaniel Clyne.
Currently, Koeman’s side sit seven points away from 5th, seven points above 18th. Just reiterates the unpredictability of this year’s Premier League.
But, as the Saints’ saying goes, they’ll be hoping to march on in 2016 with style.
A 90th minute winner from super substitute Heung-Min Son sealed all three points for the travelling Spurs, to sink an unlucky 10-man Hornets side in the dying embers.
A 90th minute winner, courtesy of attacking substitute Heung-Min Son, sealed all three points for Tottenham in a relentless, unpredictable fixture at Vicarage Road. Sandwiched between two first-half strikes from Erik Lamela and Odion Ighalo at either end, the game was finely poised in a second-half filled with talking points, half-chances and plenty of attacking intent as both were eager to find an all-important winner.
This result is Tottenham’s ninth victory of the Premier Leaguecampaign, meaning they leapfrog title favourites Manchester Cityinto third place – Manuel Pellegrini‘s side do have a game in hand, against league leadersLeicester tomorrow evening.
An intriguing start, marked with a goal
Spurs unsurprisingly enjoyed the lion share of possession during the early exchanges, but Watford were doing fairly well to keep them at arms length to begin with. Nathan Aké, on-loan from reigning champions Chelsea, was doing very well to contain the threat posed by Harry Kane in-and-around the area, with both Kieran Trippierand Danny Rose accelerating forward with pace on the flanks from their respective fullback positions.
Within a flash though, Tottenham’s success on the counter attack was emphasised with the opening goal. The ball was lost in midfield and within a flash, it nestled into the bottom corner of Heurelho Gomes‘ net. Lamela drove forward with only Miguel Britos and the goalkeeper to beat, the defender backed off too much – giving the talented Argentine enough space and time to weave his way past, and cooly slot home from close-range.
It could have been a quick-fire double, too. Kane was left unmarked on the left, darted toward the edge of the area and unselfishly passed across to Lamela. Unfortunately for the visitors though, the winger was unable to get proper contact on the ball as it trickled goalwards.
Aké’s inviting delivery fed Ighalo – the first piece of service he’d had since kick-off – just before the half-hour mark. However, the clinical Nigerian was only able to volley his first-time effort over the crossbar, not troubling Hugo Lloris.
Defensively solid
Spurs’ tactic was an effective one, to ensure Watford had limited, if any joy in attack. With a high-pressing game, coupled with a fast counter-attacking shape to their formation, it allowed them to break at speed with the ball but also restricted Ighalo and his strike partner Troy Deeney to half-chances. As opposed to backing off, and giving them space to create an opportunity for themselves, they were constantly placed under pressure and always found themselves recycling possession in order to retain it.
Ighalo scores – yet again
The visitors’ game-plan worked a treat, but they didn’t account for a moment of magic from one of Watford’s troublesome duo. Deeney’s headed flick was seemingly Eric Dier‘s responsibility to clear away – but Ighalo’s tireless attitude helped him win the ball in a dangerous position, out-muscling the young English defender to devastating effect, as he weaved his way past the backline and poked home with both poise and composure from close-range to level the scoring before the interval.
Mauricio Pochettino was forced into making his first substitution of the half after Mousa Dembele (ankle) limped off in pain, and was replaced by Christian Eriksen just before the break.
Almen Abdi was replaced by Valon Behrami as the second-half got underway, with plenty to fight for in terms of a positive result from both sides. I didn’t mean literally, fight, but after a late tackle by Britos on Trippier, players and respective managers got involved to intervene – Britos was consequently booked for the challenge itself.
Picture: Getty – The two sets of players rushed to the scene, avoiding a potential bust-up in the second-half
Trippier’s teasing cross was almost rewarded with an assist for the former Burnley man, but Kane’s header flashed narrowly wide of the near post in the box. Then, a high tackle was met by the referee Anthony Taylor brandishing a straight red card to the unfortunate Aké.
The towering Dutchman reacted with initial disbelief, especially considering his intention was to win the ball in mid-air, but his studs-up challenge caught Lamela and the Argentine’s reaction didn’t exactly help his cause either.
Aké reacts with disbelief after the referee gives him his marching orders. | Image: Getty
Plenty of half-chances were squandered, alterations were made, but as time ticked by, it seemed more and more likely as though it’d finish as a one-all draw. Lloris’ excellent claw off-the-line stopped Watford from scoring late on at one end, but Heung-Min Son gave the visitors a last-gasp victory after Trippier’s cross was headed home by the south Korean, his second Premier League goal since his summer switch from Bayer Leverkusen.
As for Watford, their smash-and-grab attempt at a victory was in vain – they’ll be hoping to bounce back when they entertain Manchester City on January 2.
The Citizens gave their home supporters a Boxing Day treat with a comprehensive victory over one of the League’s strugglers – and it could’ve been a much more comfortable scoreline in truth.
Manchester City got back to winning ways in comprehensive fashion with a 4-1 victory over Sunderland, giving their home supporters a well-earned Boxing Day treat.
A goal apiece from Raheem Sterling, Yaya Touré, Wilfried Bonyand Kevin de Bruyne helped the sky Blues to seal a morale-boosting victory, but another frustrating injury – on Vincent Kompany‘s return to action – understandably put a dampner on proceedings in the final twenty minutes.
Team news
It seemed to be a welcome return back to the matchday squad for club captain Vincent Kompany, who, alongside Sergio Agüero andJesús Navas, was amongst the substitutes’ bench for their clash with one of the League’s strugglers.
As for Sunderland, it was a particularly intriguing starting XI from them too. With a 433 formation, Danny Graham, Steven Fletcherand Fabio Borini were chosen as the visitors’ frontline, meaning that both Jermain Defoe and Duncan Watmore – amongst other key players – were surprisingly starting from the bench.
Vito Mannone was opted to start in-between the sticks instead of usual first-choice Costel Pantilimon, although there was no hint of a possible pre-match injury sustained by the latter, which would have influenced Sam Allardyce‘s decision.
A fast-paced start
The hosts started quickly and with intent, and after just six minutes, could have broken the deadlock as well as a penalty in their favour. However, the score stayed goalless with Sunderland struggling to get themselves into the match itself quickly enough in the early exchanges.
Kevin de Bruyne played a defence-splitting through ball toward the path of Raheem Sterling near the far post, but the 21-year-old was unable to latch onto his neatly-weighted pass, with Vito Mannone scrambling to get in position.
Raheem gets his reward
Then, referee Anthony Taylor brandished the game’s first yellow card with seemingly no hesitation. Sterling – and his City teammates – appealed for a penalty after he’d weaved his way in the box and was brought down clumsily by Billy Jones, but the man in the middle felt as though Raheem overexaggerated the contact, and booked him for simulation.
It wasn’t too long though, before the hosts got what they deserved. Sterling himself, ironically, broke the deadlock in the 13th minute with a power header after a teasing ball was fizzed toward his path by de Bruyne from the far side.
A quick-fire double
Four minutes later, the lead was emphatically doubled. Yaya Tourédrove through midfield and, as we’re all used to seeing him do, rifled one home from range into the bottom corner.
The result was virtually sealed though, when Wilfried Bony got himself on the scoresheet. A freekick delivery was swung into the area, and the powerful Ivorian had no trouble flicking goalwards from de Bruyne’s cross, leaving Mannone with no chance despite his diving effort to push the ball to safety.
A three-goal cushion and a lead to protect, it could have easily been more – or less – before the interval. Danny Graham had a golden opportunity to grab one back for Sunderland, but watched on in disbelief as his header from close-range flew inches wide of Joe Hart‘s far post.
Visitors have chances of their own
Steven Fletcher had a promising chance of his own, too, but for a last-ditch defensive intervention to stop the Scotsman in his tracks with a potential one-on-one opportunity on the cards. Fabio Borini tested Hart from close-range, his effort was on-target and would have crept in at the near post if not for the quick reflexes of City’s number-one, who was ultimately unlucky not to keep a clean sheet.
As the half-time whistle blew, City were in the ascendency and knew fully well that they were dominating. Sunderland paid the ultimate price for their slow start to proceedings and despite fashioning some chances of their own, didn’t look particularly convincing defensively.
An interesting second-half
Damage limitation, some might have suggested. As the second-half began, it became clearer that the complexity of the match would be determined by the substitutes warming up on the sidelines.
Sunderland looked increasingly tentative at the back, as though they could make a mistake at any time. Billy Jones was the unfortunate man to help set-up City’s fourth, after his sliding interception bounced up nicely in the path of de Bruyne, who cooly slotted home from close-range inside the area.
Just after the hour mark, a succession of four changes were introduced – two for each side. Lee Cattermole and Jeremain Lenswere brought on for the visitors, whilst Fabian Delph and Vincent Kompany were given a warm round of applause as they entered the fray.
The visitors themselves grabbed a goal, albeit a consolation, courtesy of Fabio Borini. Hart made a great initial block to deny the Italian forward after the ball was unintentionally fizzed into him at pace by substitute Cattermole, but was unable to stop the rebound shortly afterward from nestling into the bottom corner.
Super Silva
David Silva was beginning to prove that game-by-game, his fitness is improving. He, alongside de Bruyne and Sterling, added some creative sparks to City’s attack going forward and Sunderland struggled to get near him at times, simply because you couldn’t predict where he was going next.
His slaloming run forward, beating three players whilst dribbling, epitomised that. Despite two teammates screaming for the ball in space, the Spanish maestro went all the way and curled his effort goalward, only for the ball to swerve narrowly wide of the post. Slightly selfish, yes, but it was a sign that Silva is getting back to his best.
Another blow for Kompany
Less than ten minutes after coming on, the club captain limped off the field, shaking his head in frustration as he suffered what has been reported to be a reoccurence of the calf injury that has given him so much trouble recently. It seemed typical that given all of the side’s defensive troubles, something like this would happen – but no-one had expected it, a real shock to see.
Understandably, the atmosphere began a hushed one for the remainder of the game. Many supporters on social media have already voiced their discontent, and suggested that perhaps, Vincent Kompany is no longer able to compete at the highest level – if he’s having so many persistent injuries.
The timescale of his fresh blow is believed to be around a month, but we are patiently waiting for confirmation. The captain, leader and City legend will be hoping it’s nothing too serious and he can return to action injury-free very shortly.
City could have scored three or four more in the final twenty minutes, but the scoreline remained 4-1. Bony missed a penalty, Eliaquim Mangala came close and all in all, the result was a deserved one in truth.
But with more fears over Kompany’s fitness, it’ll be a step back in their title charge for sure in the long run.
Kompany is consoled by both Kolarov and Fernandinho as he trudges off injured. | Image: Getty
Having signed a three-year contract deal with the Reds in October, his arrival at Anfield was celebrated like one of a star signing – and he’s already begun to live up to the billing.
Jürgen Klopp. When rumours linking him to Anfield became concrete, and Brendan Rodgers‘ sacking from the club was finalised on that fateful Sunday evening, it would have been an understandable feeling for excitement to build within Liverpool supporters everywhere.
After all, the 48-year-old charismatic figure has asserted himself as one of the world’s best managers at an increasingly uneasy time for clubs and their managing staff themselves. In this day and age, it seems as though everyone’s future is virtually hanging in the balance once they’ve lost a few games, or the team are struggling for results.
Managers’ tenures are often finite
A few current examples, would be Louis van Gaal and Ronald Koeman. Both men are established professionals within the beautiful game, but due to shortcomings on the pitch for their respective Premier League sides – Manchester United andSouthampton – speculation has begun to surface, suggesting that their futures may be at risk, if results continue in the same vein.
Manchester United, for all their financial firepower and reputation as one of the European heavyweights, haven’t won in any of their last six matches. Pundits, critics, even supporters are beginning to fall into the trap of suggesting there might be a crisis brewing at Old Trafford. But, whatever happened to patience?
The situation is similar at St. Mary’s. Southampton, who finished last season in a fantastic seventh place, have struggled to replicate that form on a regular basis this term. That in itself, shouldn’t be a surprise. So’ton have continued to silence their critics, who’ve tipped them for relegation after the inevitable departures of key first-team players. The likes of Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw, Rickie Lambert, Morgan Schneiderlin and Toby Alderweireld have all left the club over the past 24 months to join stronger teams, and their importance to the team in itself could not be understated. They’ve made more acquisitions this past summer, but it obviously takes time for Koeman to establish his strongest starting line-up, and rotate accordingly with tactical shape and their opposition in mind.
Klopp an exciting, much welcome addition
After a successful, and frankly remarkable, 12-year playing career at German side FSV Mainz 05, Jürgen became the manager – leading them to promotion into the Bundesliga whilst becoming the longest-serving manager in the club’s history, in a successful seven-year tenure. Being a one-club man, highlights plenty of qualities in a player. So much so that in today’s game, players move almost every season, jumping from club-to-club, as opposed to sticking by one side and trying to improve them as much as they possibly can.
Klopp celebrating during his successful days at Mainz. | Image: Getty
Somewhere on the Internet, there’s probably a list of all the one-club players that have kicked a football professionally. Just imagine the sheer amount of people that have played competitively, for one club, throughout their career. Well, Jürgen Klopp is on that list.
For all of its non-stop, frantic action every matchday, plenty of questions have been asked as to whether the Bundesliga is as competitive or unpredictable as, for example, the Premier League or Sky Bet Championship. You may get the odd surprise result occasionally, but the general consensus is, that Bayern Munich rule the roost and they have virtually no competition challenging them for top spot.
When none other than Klopp himself, joined Borussia Dortmund in 2008, he silenced critics once more. After a transition period at BVB, they won the Bundesliga trophy, not once, but twice in consecutive seasons (2011, 2012). So much for a one-team league, huh. Four other trophies (DFL-Super Cup x 3, DFL-Pokal), a prestigious Champions League final as well as personal accolades came calling for the German, who was unsurprisingly named as the German Football Manager of the Year in back-to-back years too.
Sheer delight: BVB players hold Klopp aloft after the Bundesliga win of 2011
Feeling excited yet? Well, Klopp’s arrival had a Hollywood-type feel to it. Indescribable, some might say. A managerial appointment to not only revitalise spirits within the Liverpool setup, but also, to refresh the Premier League as a whole. Why is that though? His energetic personality, the willingness to get the best out of young players, he’s both friendly and stern when he needs to be. But as well as that, his passion for football really shines through.
Liverpool need change – for the better
That’s not to say that Brendan Rodgers, or any other of Liverpool’s predecessors, didn’t have that. They weren’t able to fully channel those energies into helping build success of the team on a consistent, extended period of time, in all honesty.
Klopp’s Gegenpressing tactic, counter-attacking style of play, is one that European teams struggle to handle. Partly because his formations, the way he tinkers, is never too predictable, but also, it’s genuinely hard to defend or contend with.
Performances against Chelsea, Manchester City and in particular, Southampton, have all given supporters and rival fans alike a glimpse of what’s to come – once he has the freedom to assemble his own side.
I take a specific look at their display against the Saints, not only because they thrashed them away from home, but the way in which they actually completed the impressive achievement. In a Cup fixture, form is irrelevant. It all boils down to, who is better prepared on matchday, most of the time.
If you start quickly on the frontfoot, take your chances, you should have enough composure to seal a win. Right? Well, Southampton did. So why did they lose 6-1, then?
Tactical analysis
In the following three screenshots, you’ll begin to understand both the positives, and negatives, attached to the task at hand for Klopp with his ever-improving Liverpool team.
From this first screen grab, it’s the seconds before Southampton’s early opener against the Reds. Sadio Mané broke the deadlock after just 45 seconds, sending the home supporters into raptures. But the main reason why the fans were so happy was because they’d split Liverpool’s backline in half effortlessly, due to some quick thinking on their part, but also some defensive deficiencies on the visitors’ part.
As the ball has been played down the line, the majority of the Liverpool players are ball-watching, as opposed to pressing tightly. This leaves a major gap (depicted, in red) for the So’ton players to attack in the area, where they eventually score.
Next up, the art of effective pressing. By applying adequate pressure upon opponents, it often forces them to make mistakes that they otherwise wouldn’t, if they had enough time and space to make a positive decision in possession of the ball.
Ryan Bertrand is the player on the ball in this picture. Having initially delayed his chance to play a one-two with Dušan Tadić, it allowed ample time for the Liverpool midfielders to get tight to both him and his teammate on the left-hand side. Forcing him back towards his own goal, their pressure toward him has shut off the possibility of the pass altogether, which in itself is beneficial, considering they’d conceded from a similar position earlier in the match.
Bertrand’s option to pass forward has been effectively shut off by Liverpool’s high pressing tactic near their own 18-yard area, meaning the fullback had to play backward to retain possession. He didn’t, lost the ball by attempting to force play, and the Reds equalised on the counter shortly afterward.
Lastly, more defensive frailties being exposed. Albeit, slightly harsh from my part – but the smallest of mistakes can prove catastrophic at the highest level, and someone with such an error-prone reputation as Martin Skrtel, these things have to be flagged.
Southampton could have scored from this particular screengrab, if not ultimately for the sharp hands of Adam Bogdan. That probably would have changed the whole dynamic of the game, because a goal would have halved the deficit (making it 3-2 at the time), and pushed them on to equalise and possibly even end up victorious.
Skrtel is the player in the black box. As the lofted ball over-the-top is played, he’s already backpedalling. Hoping that Pellé, or another opponent, doesn’t get there before he does. The backline is disorganised and unnecessarily disrupted by one delivery into space – which shouldn’t be the case.
Managerial nous for varying situations
If there’s one quote, news piece or general player reactions since Klopp’s arrival at Liverpool, that has really stuck with me since, it probably isn’t the one you’re thinking about.
Alberto Moreno‘s hard-hitting truths truly hit home at the end of October, where the Spaniard admitted he felt angry at being left out of the side under Rodgers earlier in the campaign – even though the Ulsterman himself was saying he’d been “training hard.”
“I felt I was playing well, training well. He told me that I was training well, but I couldn’t see why I wasn’t getting a chance at the beginning of the season.”
Then, weeks after Klopp’s arrival…
“I just get the impression [from Klopp] that he really feels the game – he has a huge passion, which I think I do too. He wants you to express yourself, to give 200% and I think I offer that.”
“He talks with me a lot, I feel he trusts me. He spends a lot of time with me; he really wants me to learn English as quickly as possible so he can get his ideas over.”
Quotes’ source: The Guardian
So, what’s to come?
Despite some of their impressive results, there have been some forgettable games played, too. Crystal Palace, Newcastle and Watford have all recorded three points against the Reds in the League over the past month-and-a-half.
There are still some areas which need improving, moreso in defensive areas. Martin Skrtel looks alarmingly erratic, and opposition players are gradually beginning to expose him even further for that. Mamadou Sakho – if you’ll please excuse his display against the Hornets – needs a solid centre-back partner, which means it’s finally time for Dejan Lovren to step up and just like Klopp’s done over the years, silence the critics. Having got off to an inconsistent start at Anfield following his acrimonious departure from Southampton last summer, the Croatian will be hoping to prove his price-tag and quality once and for all.
Youth and fringe players will ultimately get more opportunities to play, as Klopp is yet to fully settle on a preferred starting XI yet, which is understandable given the depth of first-team players at his disposal.
Jordan Rossiter, 18, has been tipped for future stardom – and featured in their Europa League fixture with Sion
Liverpool, much unlike their rivals Manchester United, have embraced the Europa League. After all, it is a prestigious competition to play in, even if it’s the sister alternative to the Champions League. What’s the point of being in a tournament that you’ve got virtually no chance of winning?
Ultimately, players will depart, acquisitions will be signed, and his style of play will shine through. With Klopp at the helm, he’s already provided some refreshing insight into the future success that awaits Liverpool. The next question is, when can he deliver it?
The Citizens lost ground in the race for points at the top of the Premier League, despite dominating for large parts at the Emirates, with their fifth League defeat of the campaign.
Another frustrating defeat for Manchester City. Arsenal gave them a tactical masterclass in how to perform against a big rival – and despite the slender scoreline, if not for Joe Hart, it would have been much more comfortable.
Below, are the player ratings from a disappointing evening for the travelling sky Blues.
Arsenal 2-1 Manchester City: Player ratings
Goalkeeper and defence
Joe Hart: As has been shown on numerous occasions this term already, whenever City are under-performing, there is always one man they can rely on. Without Joe tonight, they would have certainly lost by a more comfortable scoreline. Quick to react in dangerous situations, he made a great stop to deny Aaron Ramsey‘s strike from point-blank range, whilst making smart saves and exuding confidence with a frail backline in-front of him. Could do nothing to stop Theo Walcott‘s brilliant opener, unlucky with Olivier Giroud‘s strike shortly afterward. 7
Bacary Sagna: The experienced Frenchman was unsurprisingly greeted with an unsavoury reception on his return to the Emirates, especially given the manner of his exit last summer. To be fair to him, the fullback rarely put a foot wrong. Couldn’t cope with Walcott’s speed early on, but not many would be actively able to. Credited with the assist for Touré’s late stunner, delivered some decent crosses and otherwise, was defensively solid. 6
Nicolas Otámendi: Slightly better than his centre-back partner, the talented Argentine was far-from-perfect at the Emirates. Partly because, in the absence of Vincent Kompany alongside him, the former Valencia man looks on a virtual tight rope. Some of his challenges were rash and late, meaning he had to play 40 minutes with a booking hanging over him after a needless tackle on Giroud. Made one or two important interceptions and was sharp elsewhere but, he certainly looks much stronger with his captain’s guidance as he firmly gets accustomed to the rigours of English football. 5.5
Eliaquim Mangala: Well, well, well. His error was gift-wrapped as an early Christmas present for the hosts, and they unsurprisingly took it with style. His erratic decision-making has been highlighted as one of his errors for improvement, if he is to achieve success at City. Supporters have, once again, voiced their concerns as to whether he’s a viable option in their first-team.. 5
Aleksandar Kolarov: Hmm… He’s been largely ineffective over the past few weeks – attacking wise – and that was again the case against the Gunners. Joel Campbell’s tireless workrate ensured the experienced Serbian had limited time to get forward, if at all. His deliveries into the box were lazy, lacked elevation or whip, and were consistently cut out before reaching a teammate. Defensively, wasn’t the best either. 5
An inconsistent midfield five
Fernandinho: The Brazilian was as effective as he could be, trying to shut out Arsenal’s counter-attacking movement in midfield. Wasn’t helped at all by Touré, who again deserted his defensive duties off-the-ball, and looked like a primary school player eager to goal-hang at times. Bizarre – but the 30-year-old was agile, strong and one of City’s best players, they long for another like him in that position. 7
Fabian Delph: The best way to describe Delph’s performance, would say he was unlucky. Started out on the left-wing, which still strikes me as a baffling decision. He’s a CDM/CM/CAM – not a LW. Despite this though, had plenty of energy and never gave up in midfield battles. Admirable attitude. 6
Delph (far right) battling with Mesut for possession in midfield. | Image: Getty
David Silva: Was lively and energetic in the first 45 – finding pockets of space within seconds, trying to create chances in-and-around the final third. With this in mind, the silky Spaniard began to fade in the second-half before being replaced. Still not back to his best yet, which is understandable given his long injury lay-off. Patience.. 6
Kevin de Bruyne: He worked hard, both on as well as off-the-ball, to try and create some magic. His evening though, was typified by the decision not to square the ball into Silva’s path, instead going for goal. If he’d scored, would have been heralded as a genius. Instead, his low effort trickled an inch wide of Petr Čech‘s far post – leading to the talented Belgian being heavily criticised for being ‘selfish’, which is ironic considering he’s also been criticised for being too unselfish at times. You can’t win! 6
Yaya Touré: His display, as per usual, divided opinion. Here’s the way I saw it though: the marauding, powerful Ivorian, who everyone – City supporters and Europe in general – have known for five years, only really got into gear in the final twenty minutes. By that time though, it was far too late, because the damage was already done. Hopefully it’s becoming more obvious though, that he can only play as a CAM to be effective. Disappointing display in a role that he shouldn’t be playing. His late excellent finish was a flash of individual brilliance, the kind we’re all used to seeing. But we want, and need, more. 6.5
… and a less-than-100% fit forward
Sergio Agüero: The return of Agüero was much-awaited, but he unsurprisingly failed to live up to the pre-match billing. Unsurprising because, just like Silva, he’s been out for an extended period already this term – and we’re only in December. Always needs a bit of time to regain his match sharpness after injuries, and although he was less-than-100% fit, still caused the Gunners’ backline plenty of problems, especially at the start of the second-half. 6
Substitutes
Raheem Sterling: Three words. Should have started. The 21-year-old, who was linked with a switch to Arsenal last season before joining the sky Blues in the summer, is known for his blistering speed, as well as his dribbling qualities, and the ability to link-up with teammates easily. When he was introduced, gave the visitors a much-needed spark in the final third and was constantly trying to create chances. The only effective method of stopping his progress, was by visibly frustrating the youngster, with cynical fouls and physically trying to outmuscle him. 7
Wilfried Bony: His omission from the starting XI was a slight surprise, also. Considering Agüero had only just returned from an injury, you’d have expected the Ivorian to start ahead of him. Then, 60-65 minutes in, the alteration would be made – a returning world-class forward against a tiring backline, do the math. Anyway, when he was introduced, he also tried to make things happen. If not for Čech’s sharp reflexes, could have halved the deficit much earlier, and the comeback could have been sealed. 6.5
Jesús Navas: Navas is that player who provides a much-needed injection of pace. What’s he good at? Running at defences, driving down the byline – looking to create something. What is he not good at? Seemingly, everything else. He can’t shoot, has no composure in-front of goal, and dithers in possession where others, such as Mesut Özil, would be busy creating another assist. 5
It was a hard-fought victory for the visitors, giving Mauricio Pochettino a welcome return to St. Mary’s against an out-of-form Saints side – which was evident.
Southampton‘s winless run extended to six games in all competitions as a quick-fire double between English duo Harry Kane and Dele Alli sealed all three points for the visitors, bouncing back from a disappointing home defeat at the hands of Steve McClaren‘s Newcastle side last time out.
They could have found themselves two-nil down with less than ten minutes on the clock though, as the Saints created a few clear-cut opportunities to break the deadlock.
Mané had two clear-cut chances, no avail
First, Sadio Mané was set through on-goal in the area after a lovely chipped pass toward his path by Steven Davis. The winger shaped to shoot, but centre-back Toby Alderweireld – who spent a season on-loan at Southampton last term – was alert to the danger and got a strong interception behind the drilled effort, sending it behind for a corner-kick.
Then, two minutes later, it could have been two. Dušan Tadić drove down the flank, before unselfishly fizzing a perfectly-weighted pass into Mané’s path on the edge of the area. His well-placed effort was denied by Hugo Lloris though, making an excellent reflex save to keep the scores level.
Harry Kane had a half-chance of his own, which Paulo Gazzaniga did well to get behind, as the 22-year-old fired goalwards from a tight angle with power.
Quick, effective and seemingly comfortable
And it seemed as though it would stay goalless at the interval, but Spurs raced ahead to devastating effect. First, the north Londoners were the beneficiaries of an advantage being played by referee Kevin Friend.
He could have opted to stop play after Jose Fonté clattered into Alli in the build-up, but the visitors’ kept hold of the ball on the counter-attack and Kane’s close-range strike nestled into the far corner past a helpless Gazzaniga.
It wasn’t over yet, though. Southampton’s frustrating tendency to lose the ball in key areas of the pitch was emphasised once more, when possession was squandered in midfield. Within seconds they found themselves on the back foot and, fullback Kyle Walker was allowed space to roam forward from the right-hand side, before swinging a low ball across the face of goal.
It seemed as if the match was being played in slow motion, or something. The way the Southampton defenders collectively seemed, motionless, was as though they were naturally waiting for the linesman’s call for an offside. Alli was allowed the simple task of tucking the delivery away at the far post from close-range, with Gazzaniga not protected effectively by his backline. Marking, poor. Not tight enough, and the hosts had a two-goal deficit to overturn.
Second 45 as telling as the first
As the second-half began, Southampton knew they had a task on their hands. Attacking with both pace and purpose, similarly to the way they began in the opening exchanges, Graziano Pellé created a yard of space for himself – to test Lloris in-between the posts. His snapshot, after good initial work from Mané beforehand, was comfortably held by the French goalkeeper, at a swerving height as the home supporters showed their appreciation for his efforts with a warm round of applause.
Despite all of their shortcomings recently, the fans themselves have refused to give up hope. With the clock continuing to tick down on the affair, Ronald Koeman knew something had to change. A triple substitution – Shane Long, James Ward-Prowse and Juanmi – were all introduced to the fray, replacing Davis, Tadić and Jordy Clasie.
Substitute midfielder Tom Carroll could have wrapped up all three points for the visitors, but his effort inside the area lacked much elevation or power to fully test Gazzaniga, who was able to smother the danger. Ward-Prowse was denied the chance to halve the deficit in stoppage time after another fantastic diving stop from Lloris, stretching to his left, as he kept a well-earned clean sheet.
It just wasn’t Southampton’s day, you could virtually sense that after the first ten minutes. Mané’s two early chances, could have resulted in a two-goal cushion, but instead, they found themselves with a game to chase at the break, which just highlights one of their problems. During this winless run of six fixtures, they’ve only scored three in total – which, considering the chances they create for themselves, simply isn’t good enough. Plenty of room for improvement.
A first-half strike from summer signing Yohan Cabaye was enough to seal all three points for the Eagles, as they took their chance against an unfortunate Southampton side.
Southampton‘s run of winless games in all competitions extended to a frustrating five as they succumbed to a narrow defeat at the hands of Alan Pardew‘s Crystal Palace side on Saturday afternoon. Yohan Cabaye‘s close-range effort, capping off a well-worked team move in the final third, was enough to seal all three points for the hosts, who were fully deserving of the victory.
Twenty minutes were on the clock before Paulo Gazzaniga was forced into making an important save, denying Yannick Bolasie‘s swerving effort – which seemed to be curling towards the top corner – with a smart parry over the crossbar.
In the absence of Maarten Stekelenburg, the visitors’ third-choice goalkeeper was certainly tested in the early exchanges.
Gazzaniga excellent for visitors
Cabaye powered goalwards with a sweetly-struck volley, which was parried to safety. Then, Connor Wickham was unlucky not to score minutes later, his powerful close-range header was thwarted by the Argentine in-between the posts.
The goalkeeping masterclass was not over yet, though. At the other end of the Selhurst Park turf, Wayne Hennessey made an acrobatic stop to push Steve Davis‘ headed flick-on over the crossbar.
Cabaye caps off well-worked move
For his succession of important saves beforehand, Gazzaniga could do nothing to prevent Cabaye’s well-worked opener.
After a neat pass into his feet by the returning Wilfried Zaha, Bolasie span past Jose Fonté as though the Portuguese centre-back was not there, before firing a low ball across the face of goal. The classy Frenchman was on hand to turn the ball home into the bottom corner.
Time for reflection
At half-time, Ronald Koeman‘s men were behind and needed a quick response. Bolasie and Zaha were both causing all sorts of problems in the final third throughout, but neither was able to double the lead. Gazzaniga kept his side in the game to deny both Wickham and Bolasie with respectively stinging efforts inside the area.
A golden chance – but ultimately squandered
In stoppage time, Shane Long had a golden opportunity to level the scoring – with virtually the last kick of the game. Hennessey was alert to the danger though, blocking Long’s effort swiftly with his legs, as the home supporters roared with delight.
They certainly appreciated the magnitude of Hennessey’s save, it confirmed that all three points were firmly staying in London, and it was deserved. As for the visitors though, they had to travel back home with the disappointment of another bitter defeat, especially when they knew they could have snatched a positive result instead.
Yaya Touré’s late winner helped seal all three points for the Citizens, in a tough fixture – where Joe Hart was excellent throughout in helping to keep the energetic Swans at bay.
Manchester City looked to use their Champions League triumph in midweek as a stepping stone to some much-needed Premier League success as they entertained managerless Swansea City in one of the day’s 3pm kick-off’s.
Goals from Ivorian duo Wilfried Bony and Yaya Touré, sandwiched by a late leveller from subsitute Bafetimbi Gomis, meant the hosts prevailed in a hard-fought victory over a Swansea side who were lively, energetic, and unlucky not to come away with at least a point – if not for Joe Hart‘s excellent string of saves throughout.
Early team news
Manuel Pellegrini made four changes to the side that lost 2-0 away at Stoke last weekend, with Yaya Touré and Jesús Navas amongst the returning faces to the starting XI – whilst Kevin de Bruyne was presumably rested, starting from the substitutes’ bench.
Swans start well, with purpose
The visitors could have found themselves ahead with a two-goal cushion after just twenty minutes, with some brilliant approach play hurting the Citizens in the final third. Gylfi Sigurdsson was unsurprisingly at the heart of things from a creative midfield position, initially feeding Wayne Routledge with a one-on-one opportunity, but the English winger was thwarted by a good reaction stop from Joe Hart.
Then minutes later, the Icelandic midfielder had a strike of his own. It stung the gloves of Hart, who was able to parry the danger as Pellegrini’s men held their breath in-front of a relatively quiet home crowd on a rainy afternoon at Eastlands.
Jesús Navas almost scored an excellent solo goal, but for a fortunate deflection curling the ball away for a corner-kick. After receiving the ball on the flank, the pacey Spaniard weaved his way past Neil Taylor – who slipped in Navas’ wake – before shaping to shoot, which looked threatening, but he’d won a set-piece in the process.
Bony breaks deadlock against former side
From the resulting set-piece, the deadlock was broken. After a lively start from the Swans, they found themselves behind with a lead to overturn within a flash. Navas’ delivery was teasing, and Wilfried Bony was lurking inside the box with centre-back Ashley Williams his marker. A quick movement to the side, the Ivorian sped past the captain and connected well with the ball, heading home with Lukasz Fabianski seemingly helpless to divert his effort away from goal.
A subdued celebration followed, with Bony netting his seventh goal in all competitions this term – despite his injury issues since his switch from the Liberty to the sky Blues at the start of the calendar year.
Visitors unlucky to concede
It was harsh on Swansea, given their positive start to proceedings. Defensively they’d made one mistake, and were consequently punished for it – just highlighting how quickly things can change in football.
Fabianski had to be quick to react with a save as Touré’s power and agility was too much for the Swansea backline to contend with, as he shrugged off challenges as though they were not there, before his eventual shot lacked elevation to fully test the former Arsenal man in-between the posts.
Neil Taylor was given the game’s first booking by referee Robert Madley for a late sliding challenge on Navas, as the Spaniard looked to get past the fullback once more.
With the clock ticking down on the first-half’s action, Swansea had their last chance to equalise. Andre Ayéw did excellently to hold up play, and eliminate two players with a neat skill. A quick exchange of passing saw the ball flicked up dangerously into the box, but Nicolas Otámendi made an excellent clearance to hook the ball away to safety.
The half-time whistle blew and even though they were ahead, City were fortunate – they weren’t particularly convincing.
Game still up for grabs
As the second-half began, the hosts made their first substitution of the game.
Raheem Sterling, who was tasked with more defensive-minded work than his usual attacking exploits, was replaced by Fabian Delph to help shore up the midfield trio and improve their ball retention.
Both Fabianski and Hart were forced into making good saves early in the second 45. Touré saw his free-kick strike acrobatically saved by Fabianski, whilst Hart made another excellent stop to deny Sigurdsson’s close-range effort.
Plenty of stoppages, tackles, substitutions
Bony was next in the referee’s book for a late sliding challenge on South Korean midfielder Ki Sung-Yeung. The powerful Ivorian shook hands with his former teammate, but had no complaints with Madley’s decision to give him a booking – his first in the League this term.
Then there was a stoppage in play just before the hour mark, after Bacary Sagna was penalized, and also received a yellow card for a high boot into Routledge’s face. He argued with the referee suggesting that it was accidental, he didn’t see the player, and it was his first offence of the game. The physios rushed onto the field of play, treated the winger, who hobbled off as the free-kick was lined up between Sigurdsson and Williams.
Hart was alert to the danger, parrying Sigurdsson’s swerving effort away to safety.
The visitors smelt blood, City looked vulnerable on the counter-attack and the visiting supporters were eagerly anticipating an equaliser on the cards. The noise levels were cranked up a few notches as Swansea looked dangerous going forward, and would have been ahead if not for the goalkeeping heroics of Hart on more than one occasion. David Silva was given a warm round of applause from the hosts as de Bruyne was introduced with 20 minutes to play, as they went in search of the killer goal to seal the three points.
Leon Britton and the ever-present Wayne Routledge were replaced for Jefferson Montero and Modou Barrow as Swansea meanwhile, looked for the all-important leveller. Eliaquim Mangala was shown yellow for a cynical tackle on Barrow just moments after he came on, as tempers began to flare with both sides looking to score.
Bafetimbi Gomis, who lost his place in the team following a disappointing run of performances on a personal level, was a man with a point to prove.
Coming on with ten minutes or so to play, the experienced Frenchman had an instant impact as the visitors had the ball in the back of the net – but it was ruled as an offside call..
Time for some drama
Swansea edged ever closer to the much-deserved equaliser, and within a flash, they grabbed it.
Federico Fernandez‘ excellent long-range pass set up Gomis, who was too quick for Mangala, and rifled the ball past Hart – who was helpless to stop the bullet flying goalwards into the net.
The game had burst into life, and there was another twist in the tale. City were minutes away from dropping yet more points in the race for top spot in the League – but the newly-crowned African Footballer of the Year had other ideas.
A fortunate deflection meant the ball sat up nicely for Yaya Touré, who connected with the ball perfectly to curl an effort into the bottom corner of the net – despite Fabianski’s dive. 2-1 up, City held firm despite some late pressure for the final two minutes of stoppage time to retain top spot in the Premier League this weekend.
Mo and Sports 