Tottenham v Arsenal: A Conflict of Interests

This is a North-London derby with all its trappings. Tottenham with an eye on that fourth Champions League slot entertain bitter rivals, Arsenal, whose title aspirations have been given renewed boost. Manchester United’s 0-0 at Newcastle on Tuesday has given the Gunners renewed hope of catching the team from Manchester despite trailing by seven points.

Don’t expect favours from both sides as they harbour completely different ambitions. While Arsenal want to end their seven-year trophy drought, the Lilywhites seek to return to the UEFA Champions League next season after a brilliant campaign this season.  This is the 82nd meeting between Spurs and Arsenal at White Hart Lane. Spurs edge their meetings with 32 wins, Arsenal have 26 wins while 23 games have ended in draws. The Lilywhites got the better of their North-London rivals in the reverse fixture earlier this season. Second half goals from Gareth Bale, Rafael Van der Vaart and Younes Kaboul gave Spurs a 3-2 win despite Arsenal taking a 2-0 lead into the break. A repeat performance will do no harm to Harry Redknapp and Spurs’ chances of playing in the Champions League next season. Arsene Wenger and his wards will be wary of the threat Spurs pose.

 Nice boots Gael. ..Nice dance step Aaron!

The Lilywhites beat the Gunners 2-1 last season’s corresponding fixture. Arsenal’s last league win at WHL was a 3-1 victory in September 2007 and a repeat performance will be a massive boost for the Gunners title ambitions. Spurs in their last league game beat Stoke City 3-2 in an enthralling game at WHL earlier this month while Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw at the Emirates on Sunday. The Gunners are on 15-match unbeaten run, dating back to December 2010 when they lost 0-1 to Manchester United. Coincidentally that's was the last game the Gunners have lost on the road.

Men to Watch

If the news making the rounds are anything to go about, Heurelho Gomez would be offloaded by Harry this summer. Gomez has been the target of much criticisms for his high profile gaffes this season; the latest when he allowed an innocuous shot to slip through his grasp in Spurs ouster to Real Madrid in the Champions League. At his best, Gomez would rival the world’s top goalies but his error-prone nature have seen him come in for some severe criticism. I feel Gomez might play a decisive role in this clash. The question is “Which Gomez will turn up Wednesday evening?” The maverick or the shot-stopper?

 The maverick? Can’t bear to watch!

Newly crowned PFA Player of the year, Gareth Bale has been one of Tottenham’s most consistent player this season.. His exploits at home and in Europe did go a long way to earn him the PFA award. Bale will want to remind all why he has been voted the best amongst his peers with a brilliant performance against Arsenal. Bale’s speed on the flanks will be a worry for Arsenal. I expect Bale to feature prominently in this tie.

Rafael Van der Vaart’s season has been riddled with injury-layoffs. This is the sort of game the Dutchman should thrive. Given he is fit to start, Van der Vaart’s creativity will be called upon against a side that knocks the ball about like the Gunners.

Cesc Fabregas’ influence in the Arsenal midfield might have waned lately but the captain is still at his best. Cesc will be looking to boss the midfield alongside Jack Wilshere. It is going to be intriguing to see Fabregas and Luka Modric do battle to control the midfield.

A fox in the box, Samir Nasri is gifted with skills and tricks. The diminutive Frenchman can rip opposition defences to shreds. Nasri is dangerous around the 18-yard box and if left unattended, he will have a field day.

Robin Van Persie’s 21 goals in his last 22 starts for Arsenal is a decent return and my money is on the Dutchman to continue in his rich vein of form. Injury-prone, RVP will come up against tough men at Spurs. Barring any knocks, RVP is the man Tottenham will love to keep quiet.

 Up and away… the flying Dutchman.

My Match Prediction

Both sides have totally different aspirations; while an Arsenal win will cut Manchester United’s lead at the top to four points the Gunners could be overtaken by Chelsea who are breathing down the Gunners necks should Wenger’s men falter. Spurs need maximum points to keep pace with Manchester City in fourth and points dropped will keep them adrift of the top four.

WHL will be agog for this very important North-London derby. The possibility of catching up with United is a massive motivation for Arsenal to secure maximum points, while the attraction of the Champions League is to great for Spurs to ignore. It is going to be blood, sweat and tears as both sides clash. Anything but a win will suffice for both side as points dropped will greatly hamper their respective ambitions.

It is going to be close. I will settle for a 1-1 draw.

Newcastle United v Manchester United: A Tale of Two Uniteds

 

Still smarting from their FA Cup ouster to Manchester City, Manchester United travel north to face Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. It is just over two years since the Red Devils’ last visit to the Magpies ground. While on FA Cup duties, Arsenal cut Manchester United’s lead atop the league table from seven points to six; thanks to a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at the Emirates.

Both sides will be meeting at Tyneside for the 74th time in all competitions; Newcastle have recorded 30 wins against Manchester United’s 27 with points shared in 16 games. The Red Devils won the reverse fixture on the opening weekend of the league back in August 2010; goals from Dimitar Berbatov, Darren fletcher and Ryan Giggs sealed a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford. The last meeting between both sides at St. James Park was in March 2009, Manchester United won that game by two goals to one. The Magpies went one to be relegated from the Premier League that season.

United have fared better in this fixture in recent times. You will have to go back ten years for Newcastle’s last league win(or any win in all competitions) over Manchester United. A true English Classic saw a Newcastle United side then managed by Sir Bobby Robson and captained by Alan Shearer edged out the Red Devils by the odd goal in a seven-goal thriller, Newcastle won that 4-3 in September 2001. This fixture has traditionally been known to produce goals and Tuesday’s game won’t be an exception.

 Sir Bobby with Shearer in the background……good days gone by!

Newcastle’s last home game was the 4-1 trashing of Wolverhampton Wanderers in the first week of April. How they would love a repeat performance on Tuesday. Newcastle succumbed to a 0-1 at Villa Park in their last league game. Manchester United beat Fulham 2-0 at home in their last league fixture. The Red Devils away form have been far from impressive this season and that should give comfort to the Magpies and the Toon Army. The Red Devils last game on the road was that 4-2 win over West Ham; a game now infamous for the barrage of expletives Wayne Rooney hurled at the TV cameras and the subsequent three-match ban that followed his ill-judged actions.

Men to Watch

Steve Harper has been a long serving, loyal servant of his club and should he be fit, a busy evening awaits him given the opposition’s attack prowess. A good shot stopper, his calm demeanour between the sticks will be tested to the maximum.

Tagged as one of the best left-backs in the English Premier League, Jose Enrique is being courted by several big clubs including Liverpool. The Spaniard will be in the spotlight Tuesday evening as a match-up against Luis Nani or Antonio Valencia will sure prove interesting.

He claims to be the best English midfielder in the league and to be honest, Joey Barton cannot be far from the truth. If only his antics were channelled constructively into the game then we will all agree that Barton is a genuine contender for the midfield maestro. I expect Barton to be in the thick of the action, never far from controversy he will be the Magpies driving force in the midfield in the absence of Kevin Nolan. A typical Joey Barton performance is not complete without his customary yellow card!

I'm the best…..better than Lamps!

What is there left to say about the mercurial Ryan Giggs? The Welshman has rolled back the years in his last few games for United. After sitting out United’s FA Cup loss to City on Saturday, I expect Giggs’ recall to United’s starting XI. His experience is invaluable as evident in both legs of United’s Champions League quarter-final clash against Chelsea.

Luis Nani has definitely stepped out of Cristiano Ronaldo’s shadow and has been a revelation for United this season. Leading the assists log; Nani is a major source of United’s goals. If given the freedom of Newcastle, the Magpies will live to rue their mistake.

After completing his three-match ban for swearing at the camera, Wayne Rooney goes straight into the Red Devils attack for Tuesday’s game. And with his current form, the Roonatic will be a key figure in this game. Let’s hope he doesn’t go on another barrage of expletives should he grab a hat trick.

 What?! What?! F*** off FA!! F*** off!!!

My Match Prediction

In mid-table and seven points above the relegation zone, Alan Pardew’s Newcastle side should be safe with six games left to play. With one point from the 40 needed to secure top-flight survival, Pardew will charge his team to go all out for maximum points. The problem in pressing Manchester United is the inevitability of being caught on the break. Newcastle haven’t got the best of defences and their backline will be put to test in this game. The Red Devils regular back four should be fit for this game and will be ready for the Magpies assault.

Rooney and Javier Hernandez upfront should be the obvious choice for Sir Alex Ferguson. Rooney and Chicharito have forged an understanding that has delivered goals. Looking to stretch their lead over Arsenal (who don’t play until Wednesday) to nine points. Fergie knows that any slip up by his team will throw the title race open once again; giving the chasing pack hope of catching the Red Devils.

It is going to be an exciting encounter with the potential of goals. Given the raucous support the Geordies give to their team, the Magpies will be urged on by their fans no doubt. On current form and with a three-match unbeaten run, I see United claiming yet another win over Newcastle.

United to win 3-1

Arsenal v Liverpool: The Red Juggernaut comes to town

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With league leaders on FA Cup duty this weekend, Arsenal have the opportunity of closing the gap at the top of the league to four points. That task won’t be easy considering the opposition at the Emirates; Liverpool. The Reds have notched up victories over the top five teams on the league standings besides Arsenal.

This is the 100th time both teams will face each other on Arsenal’s home turf in all competitions. The Gunners edge their encounters in London with 43 win, Liverpool have secured 24 wins while 32 games have ended in draws. The reverse fixture at the start of the season ended in a 1-1 draw at Anfield. Last season’s corresponding fixture saw Arsenal beat Liverpool 1-0, thanks to a 72nd minute Abou Diaby goal in February 2010. The Gunners actually did the double over the Merseyside team, beating Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield in December 2009.

It is just over 11 years since Liverpool’s last league win on Arsenal’s home turf and that was at the Gunners old ground, Highbury, in February 2000. Liverpool, under the tutelage of Gerard Houllier, secured maximum points with an 18th minute Titi Camara goal. It has been tough for the Reds on subsequent visits to Highbury and now the Emirates. Both teams have not been involved in a scoreless game since a 0-0 draw at Highbury in January 1999, so be assured that there will be goals in this fixture.

While Arsenal are trying to close the gap on league leaders, Manchester United, the Reds are chasing a place in Europe and points dropped by both teams at this stage of the season could prove costly. Both teams put three goals past their respective opponents last week; Arsenal were 3-1 victors at Blackpool while Liverpool put three un-replied goals past Manchester City. On current for, the Gunners are unbeaten in their last six league games; winning three and drawn three. Liverpool on the other hand have won three, drawn one and lost two games of their last six.

Men to Watch

Robin Van Persie, the Dutchman has been amongst the goals lately. With 20 goals-in his last 21 starts for Arsenal, it will be difficult to ignore the Dutchman and the Liverpool backline will definitely have to be on their toes to checkmate Van Persie’s moves.

Jack Wilshere have been touted as a future England captain by Fabio Capello and the youngster has justified his inclusion in the Gunners team lately. His ball distribution is excellent and marking is also impressive. I expect young Jack to boss the midfield with his virtuoso performance.

He has gone off the boil lately but ignore Samir Nasri at your peril. The diminutive Frenchman is a threat around the box and his trickery will be difficult for Liverpool’s defence to handle.

Captain Jack?

I consider Dirk Kuyt as the most dangerous of Liverpool’s front men. A driving force in the absence of the mercurial Steven Gerrard, Kuyt is a tricky customer with an eye for goal and if left unmarked will make Arsenal pay dearly.

Luis Suarez was instrumental in the demolition of Manchester United and Chelsea respectively. It won’t be beyond the Uruguayan striker to be a key figure in this game. Quick thinking with a deft touch, Suarez can wreck havoc on Arsenal’s defence.

Andy Carroll has come good for Liverpool despite his recovery from an injury lay-off. His sheer size and power will give Arsenal’s central defensive pair a torrid time. Good with both feet and also effective with his head, Carroll will be the target of crosses and long balls into the Arsenal box.

My Match Prediction

This is a game both sides can ill-afford to lose. Arsenal need all three points to keep pace with Manchester United while Liverpool’s late rally to secure European football next season is at stake. Given Liverpool’s attacking prowess and Arsenal’s defensive frailties, I envisage goals in this game. But given Liverpool’s recent poor record against Arsenal in the league, I don’t see the Reds winning this one. The Gunners can score goals but questions about their backline has been raised all season. Can Arsenal shut Liverpool out?

I will go for a 2-2 draw.

West Bromwich Albion v Chelsea: London Blues in the Black Country

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With their Champions League exit to Manchester United still fresh on their minds, Carlo Ancelloti’s Chelsea travel to the Midlands to take on a resurgent West Brom managed by Roy Hodgson.

West Brom have played host to Chelsea 40 times in the Black Country. The Baggies have notched 23 wins, slightly ahead of the Blues who have 21 wins under their belts with 16 games ending in draws. Both teams currently top the form table; Chelsea lead the form table with four wins and two draws from their last six league games while WBA are third on the form standings with three wins and same number of draws in their last six league fixtures.

West Brom are still unbeaten under the management of Roy Hodgson. The Baggies are on a six-match unbeaten run at the Hawthorns stretching back to New Year’s Day when they lost 1-2 to Manchester United. Chelsea will look at this game with relish as this tie traditionally favours the Blues. Chelsea have won the last six league encounters between both sides and have averaged 3.0 goals-per-game against the Baggies who have managed only one goal against Chelsea in 540 minutes of football against the champions. It is just over 32 years since the Baggies last victory over Chelsea, and that was in March 1979 in the old First Division.

Chelsea thumped the Baggies 6-0 in the reverse fixture on the opening day of the season at Stamford Bridge, a feat the champions would want to repeat as their try to cling to their title. Both sides have suffered similar fate during the course of the season; peaking and dipping in form then followed by a rise. West Brom’s recent good form has coincided with their rise above the relegation waters. The Baggies currently sit 10th on the league standing when at the turn of the year the Baggies looked sure candidates for relegation. Chelsea still harbour the hope of retaining the league title but first have to claw back a massive 11 points deficit. The Blues have battled their way from fifth to third and are looking at overtaking Arsenal on second with only four points separating second from third with six games left to play.

The Baggies and the Blues enjoyed success in their last league fixtures; while West Bromwich Albion claimed a 3-2 win at Sunderland, Chelsea had to settle for a 1-0 win over bottom side Wigan Athletic.

Men to Watch

Peter Odemwingie scored one and set up two goals last weekend. Blessed with quick feet, the Nigerian is West Brom’s top scorer with eleven goals in the league. Odemwingie has been more than a handful for most opposing team’s defences. Not afraid to take on defenders, the striker will definitely keep the likes of John Terry and David Luiz busy on Saturday.

Fox in the box?

Though one of the most underrated midfielder in the EPL, Youssuf Mulumbu has come in leaps and bounds. His ball distribution is excellent and he is an astute marker and a key member of the Baggies’ midfield. It will be intriguing to see him do battle with Chelsea’s Ramires in midfield.

The much maligned Scot Carson has been off the  media radar of late. Carson has carved out a niche for himself at West Brom and credit must be given to him and his backline for their unbeaten run. Carson should be prepared for a tough day between the sticks given Chelsea’s attacking prowess.

Didier Drogba has been consistent for Chelsea lately. His impact on Tuesday’s Champions League tie at Old Trafford was evident after his second half introduction. I can’t see Drogba not starting this game and with a point to prove, the Ivorian will definitely give the Baggies defence nightmares.

Ashley Cole always puts in a good shift for Chelsea, hence his starting place in the squad has never been in doubt. Disciplined at the back and supporting the attack when he goes up field, Cole will help with passes and crosses into the box when the need arises. Not the quickest of fullbacks but he is a dedicated player nonetheless.

“When will Fernando Torres score?” That’s the question only the Spaniard can answer. El Nino’s £50m transfer fee seem like a waste of Roman Abramhovic’s funds but who can tell? This is the sort if game that could see Torres finally break his duck for Chelsea. It is left for us to see if Torres will feature on Saturday.

 I score only in a red shirt……I’m sorry Carlo!

My Match Prediction

With safety in site, the Baggies will want to be secure with a win against Chelsea. Roy Hodgson has got the better of Chelsea already this season with Liverpool and a repeat performance will only boost his growing popularity amongst the Baggies fans. Hodgson has made West Brom a difficult side to beat and I expect them to make things difficult for Chelsea.

Chelsea with their deflated egos want maximum points to salvage a season that promised so much. I expect Ancelloti’s men to be on the offensive from kick-off. Given Chelsea’s attacking prowess, the Baggies are in for one tough afternoon.

West Brom will keep it tight at the back but I don’t see them keeping Chelsea at bay all afternoon. Chelsea will push forward and may be left vulnerable at the back and with pacey forwards and wingers like Odemwingie and Jerome Thomas, the Blues could be caught on the break.

It is going to be a tactical game akin to a chess game, so I will go for a draw.

West Brom 1-1 Chelsea