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Arsenal v Manchester United

A massive game for both sides, Sir Alex Ferguson has stated it as "pivotal" while Wenger has placed less importance in the fixture – the mind games begin.

Arsenal will most likely be missing defender Thomas Vermaelen (5 goals,1 assist), while fellow defender Sol Campbell will probably have to pass a late fitness test prior to the match.
Gunners striker Nicklas Bendtner (1 goal,1 assist) is in line to start as Eduardo (3 goals,4 assists) is sidelined with a hamstring.
Phillippe Senderos has joined Everton on loan until the end of the season.
Other key players also sidelined include Abou Diaby (5 goals,3 assists), Djourou, Kieran Gibbs, Merida Perez (1 goal) & Robin Van Persie (7 goals,7 assists), however Alex Song (1 goal,1 assist) and Emmanuel Eboue (1 goal,2 assists) should both be available.

Man United will be missing suspended Rio Ferdinand for four matches, while Owen Hargreaves and John O`Shea (1 goal,1 assist) remain out injured.
Defender Nemanja Vidic (1 goal) provides Ferguson with a boost as he should return from injury.

Best odds for Arsenal v Man United are available at:

Arsenal – 2.60 at Bet365 or William Hill
Draw – 3.40 SkyBet
Manchester United – 2.85 Expekt

Premier League injuries / suspensions Team News 16-17 January 2010

Stoke City v Liverpool
Stoke have doubts over keeper Thomas Sorensen and striker Tuncay(2goals), but otherwise should have a full squad to pick from.
Under-fire Liverpool boss Benitez has been rocked by the news that Fernando Torres(12goals,1assist), Steven Gerrard(5goals,5assists) & Yossi Benayoun(5goals,3assists) will all miss the trip to Stoke’s Britannia Stadium.
I don’t see many goals in this one…
 
Chelsea v Sunderland
Chelsea will be missing key players involved in the African Cup Of nations; Didier Drogba(14goals,5assists),Michael Essien(3goals),John Obi Mikel & Salomon Kalou(2assists), along with Deco who is doubtful and Jose Bosingwa is ruled out.
Nicholas Anelka(5goals,3assists) should return.
Sunderland will be missing defender Michael Turner(2goals) due to suspension, but Zenden may figure at some stage.
Kenwyne Jones(6goals,1assist) & Kieran Richardson(1goal) should also be fit & playing.
A low-scoring encounter I reckon
 
Manchester United v Burnley
Manchester Utd have received a massive boost with the news that regular keeper Edwin Van der Sar could return to the side to face Burnley.
However, Darren Fletcher(3goals,2assists) is suspended, and
Nemanja Vidic(1goal), Ben Foster and Nani(1goal,1assist) are all close to recovery.
New Burnley manager Brian Laws will have to embark on his first match without defender Steven Caldwell(1goal).
But defenders Tyrone Mears(3assists) & Stephen Jordan(1assist) are both back from suspension, while Clarke Carlisle is doubtful.
Andre Bikey(1goal) is away in African Nations Cup football.
An easy Man Utd win here.
 
Portsmouth v Birmingham City
Cash-strapped Pompey will be without African quartet Kanu(2assists),Aruna Dindane(4goals,2assists),Nadir Belhadj(2goals,1assist) and Hassan Yebda(1goal).
Defender Younes Kaboul(3goals) should be fit to play, while Kevin-Prince Boateng(3goals,2assists) is doubtful.
Birmingham will be missing midfielder Lee Carsley through injury, but could unveil their new signing, Spanish midfielder Michel. However, Blues are set to name an unchanged team for the tenth game in succession.
Birmingham City away win
 
Tottenham v Hull City
Tottenham will again be without Carlo Cudicini, and Benoit Assou-Ekotto(1goal), Jonathan Woodgate & Aaron Lennon(3goals,8assists) for the visit of Hull City.
David Bentley(1goal,1assist) is rated doubtful.
Hull will travel without a number of key players; Jimmy Bullard is still sidelined, as too is Ian Ashbee. Jose Altidore(1assist) misses the game through compassionate reasons, while Daniel Cousin & Olofinjana(1goal) are away at the African Nations tournament.
A straight Tottenham win here.
 
Wolves v Wigan
Wolves will be missing giant striker Stefan Maierhofer(1goal), defender David Edwards(1goal), Andrew Keogh(1goal,1assist) and Michael Kightly.
Milijas(2goals,3assists) & Sylvain Ebanks-Blake(1goal) could be in line for recalls.
Wigan could provide new signing Gary Caldwell a start, but Mohamed Diame is unlikely to feature as he hasn’t reached full fitness yet.
A draw is the most likely result.
 
Everton v Manchester City
Everton defender Lucas Neill(2assists) may play against Man City but will then leave for Galatasary on a one and a half year deal.
Amongst the absentees for the Toffees are Mikel Arteta,Victor Anichebe,Jack Rodwell,Phil Jagielka & Tony Hibbert.
Yakubu(1goal,2assists) & Joseph Yobo(1goal) are both away at the African Nations.
Man City will be without ex Everton defender Joleon Lescott(1goal,1assist) which is probably just as well for him!
Striker Emmanuel Adebayor is absent following the gun attack on the Togo coach.
City’s injury list includes Wayne Bridge, Stephen Ireland(2goals,1assist),Santa Cruz(2goals) while Kolo Toure(1goal) is also at the African Nations Cup.
An away win for Man City
 
Aston Villa v West Ham
Villa could recall keeper Brad Friedel,Luke Young and John Carew(4goals,2assists) for the visit of lowly West Ham.
Wilfred Bouma, Curtis Davies and Salifou are all missing though.
West Ham have a striker crisis with Guillermo Franco(3goals,1assist) out injured during training.
Freddie Sears could make his first appearance this season for the Hammers, while Daniel Gabbidon(1assist),Mark Noble(2goals,3assists) & Scott Parker(2assists) are all doubtful.
Carlton Cole(7goals,1assist) remains sidelined.
Aston Villa home win in the battle of the claret & blues
 
Blackburn v Fulham
Blackburn defender Lars Jacobsen is doubtful, but Gael Givet(1goal,1assist) could make a return to the side.
El-Hadji Diouf(2goals) is suspended and Jason Roberts(3goals,2assists) is ruled out again with a knee injury.
Fulham defender Brede Hangeland could be doubtful, but joint leading scorer Bobby Zamora(6goals,4assists) is definitely out, along with defender John Pantsil(1assist).
A draw could be on the cards at Ewood Park
 
Bolton v Arsenal
New Bolton boss Owen Coyle only has long-term absentees Sean Davis and Joey O`Brien unavailable for the visit of Arsenal – otherwise there’s a fully-fit squad to choose from.
Danny Shittu is away at the African Cup of Nations.
Arsenal have quite a few injury doubts ahead of their trip to the Reebok Stadium; Cesc Fabregas(9goals,10assists), Jack Wilshere, Philippe Senderos, Theo Walcott(1goal,1assist), Denilson(3goals,1assist) & Gael Clichy all have question-marks over their fitness.
Strikers Robin Van Persie(7goals,7assists) & Niklas Bendtner(1goal,1assist), along with Johan Djourou are all sidelined still.
Emmanuel Eboue(1goal,2assists) & Alexandre Song(1goal,1assist) are both on African Nations duty.
Have a flutter on Bolton, go on!

Coca Cola Championship Injuries/Suspensions Team News – 16-17 January 2010

Barnsley v Sheffield Weds
Barnsley could parade new signing Nathan Doyle from Hull City when they entertain Sheffield Wednesday at Oakwell.
Hugo Colace(2goals,3assists) & Bobby Hassell(1goal,1assist) are both rated doubtful.
The Owls have Michael Gray back in contention but will be without injured trio of Richard Hinds, Tommy Miller & keeper Richard O`Donnell.
 
Blackpool v QPR
No Blackpool team news available.
QPR will have to travel without former boss Paul Hart who departed suddenly, with assist Manager Mick Harford once again taking over temporarily.
 
Bristol City v Preston NE
Robins midfielder Gavin Williams(1assist) is hoping for a rare start after scoring a last-minute equaliser against Cardiff in the FA Cup midweek.
Marvin Elliott(1goal) is hoping to be fit in time, while defender Lewin Nyatanga is available following suspension.
Preston will be without Paul Parry(2goals) for Darren Ferguson’s first match in charge at deepdale.
Defender Youl Mawene and Barry Nicholson are still both sidelined.
 
Doncaster Rovers v Watford
Rovers skipper Brian Stock(1assist) could make a long-awaited return to the side, but Martin Woods(4goals,5assists) & Adam Lockwood(2goals) are unlikely to make it in time.
Watford will include loan striker Heidur Helguson when they visit the Keepmoat Stadium.
 
Ipswich Town v Coventry City
Ipswich Town will be without new signing keeper Brian Murphy, along with striker Jon Stead(6goals,2assists) who sits out another match suspended.
However, Stern John(1assist) is available again, but regular keeper Richard Wright and Luciano Civelli both remain out injured.
Coventry manager Chris Coleman is hoping striker Leon Best(8goals,3assists) & midfielder Sammy Clingan(4goals,1assist) will both be passed fit for the visit to Portman Rd.
New signings Carl Baker and Gary Deegan will both be back in the reckoning after being ineligible against Portsmouth.
This could be a home win for Ispwich here…
 
Nottingham Forest v Reading
Forest will recall defender Nicky Shorey(2assists) along with Kelvin Wilson, Chris Gunter(1goal,1assist), Paul Anderson(2goals,3assists), Radoslaw Majewski(3goals,5assists) and Dexter Blackstock(7goals,4assists) in line for recalls.
However, Robert Earnshaw(7goals) is a doubt with a hamstring injury.
Reading’s new loan signings Andy Griffin & Gunnar Thorvaldsson will both travel to the City Ground, but Noel Hunt(2goals) and Chris Armstrong are both ruled out.
Forest should have too much class at home despite Reading’s FA Cup heroics midweek.
 
Peterborough v Derby County
Peterborough look set to field 3 loanees in the shape of Reuben Reid (West Brom), Izale McLeod (Charlton) and Jake Livermore (Tottenham) for the visit of struggling Derby.
Defender Gabriel Zakuani, along with Exodus Geohaghan(1goal) & Josh Simpson(2goals) could all return to the squad after injury and cup-tied respectively.
Derby have defender Miles Addison(2goals) in serious doubt for the trip to London Rd. Shaun Barker(1goal) should deputise again as Dean Leacock is also out.
Nicky Hunt, DJ Campbell & Lee Hendrie(3assists) could all earn recalls.
Maybe worth a flutter on Peterborough against a Derby side who don’t travel well.
 
Plymouth Argyle v Crystal Palace
No team news available for Plymouth.
Crystal Palace will be without defender Jose Fonte(1goal) who has been sold to League One Southampton.
 
Scunthorpe Utd v Cardiff City
Scunthorpe are set to be missing defender Rob Jones(1goal,1assist) and Josh Wright for the visit of promotion contenders Cardiff City.
Grant McCann(5goals,1assist) returns from suspension, but keeper Joe Murphy is doubtful to be passed fully fit. Defender Kenny Milne will be missing again through injury.
Cardiff midfielder Gavin Rae(1goal,1assist) is very doubtful, but Jay Bothroyd(6goals,6assists) & Chris Burke(5goals,6assists) are both hoping to be fit.
Midfielder Joe Ledley(2goals,2assists) should be okay to continue.
I think there could be goals in this one.
 
Sheffield Utd v Middlesbrough
Blades defender Matt Kilgallon(1goal) is fit to return to the squad, but Henri Camara(2goals) is rated doubtful with a groin injury.
Boro striker Jeremie Aliadiere(4goals) is hoping to be fit for the clash against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
But Leroy Lita(5goals,2assists) is suspended and will miss out.
New signings Willo Flood,Chris Killen and Barry Robson could all make their debuts.
 
Swansea City v Leicester City
Swansea have striker Cedric Van der Gun(1goal) rated doubtful for the visit of fellow promotion hopefuls Leicester City.
Craig Beattie(3goals,1assist) should return though along with Angel Rangel, Leon Britton, Andrea Orlandi and Fede Bessone set to return.
Defender Marcos Painter will be missing as he joins Brighton on loan.
Leicester defender Bruno Berner(2goals,1assist) could return to the squad, and boss Nigel Pearson could recall Paul Gallacher(2goals,2assists), Dany N`Guessan(2goals,2assists), Yann Kermorgant and Martyn Waghorn(5goals,1assist).
Could be a stalemate between these two sides.
 
Newcastle Utd v West Brom
Newcastle striker Peter Lovenkrands(2goals,1assist) is pushing for a starting place after scoring a hat-trick against Plymouth in the FA Cup midweek.
West Brom defender Gianni Zuiverloon(2goals,1assist) is doubtful for their vital clash with leaders Newcastle Utd.
Midfielder Chris Brunt(6goals,3assists) should be fit to play despite missing training in the week.
Fellow midfielder Youssuf Mulumbu(3goals) could be recalled following the Baggies home loss to Nottm Forest last week.

Premier League injuries / suspensions Team News 9-11 January 2010

Hull City v Chelsea
Hull striker Geovanni(3goals) will be recalled but Dean Marney(1goal,2assists) is rated doubtful.
Chelsea will travel to Hull without anchorman Michael Essien(3goals),who, although returned to training, will fly out to African nations Cup to join the Ghana squad.
The Blues will again be missing their annual African Nations players ie Didier Drogba(14goals,5assists), John Mikel Obi and Salomon Kalou(2assists).
Jose Bosingwa will also be missing the line-up.
 
Arsenal v Everton
Arsenal entertain Everton at the Emirates Stadium again missing striker Robin Van Persie(7goals,7assists) & Cesc Fabregas(9goals,10assists) for the visit of Everton.
However, the Gunners are hoping Andrei Arshavin(6goals,1assist), Denilson(2goals,1assist) & Thomas Rosicky(1goal,3assists) are all fit again to play.
Everton are lining up new signing striker Landon Donovan for his debut at the Emirates as Jo(1assist) sits out through a club suspension and Louis Saha(10goals) is doubtful, while Yakubu is suspended.
 
Burnley v Stoke City – Postponed
 
Fulham v Portsmouth – Postponed
 
Sunderland v Bolton – Doubtful
 
Wigan Athletic v Aston Villa
Wigan’s new signing keeper Vladimir Stojkovic goes straight into the starting lineup as the Latics look for a change in fortunes.
French midfielder Mohamad Diame is sidelined though.
Aston Villa look set to recall midfielder James Milner(4goals,8assists) and Luke Young should also be fit to play.
Wilfred Bouma, Curtis Davies(1goal) and Salifou are all unavailable.
 
Birmingham City v Manchester Utd
Birmingham face probably their stiffest test to their unbeaten run yet when they host Manchester United. Although injuries to United and Alex Mcleish able to name an unchanged side for the ninth successive game could be in Birmingham’s favour.
They will be without midfielder Lee Carsley & defender Stuart Parnaby as they both limped off in last week’s cup game at Nottingham Forest.
Blues’ new signing Spanish midfielder Michel is unlikely to be registered in time for this match.
Man Utd defender Nemanja Vidic(1goal) is ruled out, and he joins Rio Ferdinand, Owen Hargreaves, John O`Shea(1goal,1assist) and keeper Edwin Van der Sar.

West Ham v Wolves
Hammers trio Scott Parker(2assists), Herita Ilunga(1assist) and Danny Gabbidon(1assist) are all rated doubtful when West Ham host fellow strugglers Wolves.
Wolves are expected to recall striker Kevin Doyle(5goals,1assist) and Christohe Berra(3assists) for the trip to East London.
 
Liverpool v Tottenham – Likely to be Postponed
 
Manchester City v Blackburn
Man City will probably be hoping the weather does them a favour here as they have several key players unavailable; Stephen Ireland(2goals,1assist), Nedum Onuoha, Shaun Wright-Phillips(3goals,5assists), Joleon Lescott, Wayne Bridge and Michael Johnson, along with African Nations players Kolo Toure(1goal) & Emmanual Adebayor(6goals,3assists).
Blackburn have doubts over Vince Grella, while El-Hadji Diouf(2goals) is suspended.
Brett Emerton has been passed fit to play.

Coca Cola Championship Injuries/Suspensions Team News – 8-10 January 2010

West Brom v Nottingham Forest
It’s 2nd v 3rd in the Championship and should be a cracking tie. West Brom are boosted by Graham Dorrans(5goals,9assists) extending his contract at the West Midlands club.
Baggies new signing Gabriel Tamas could make his debut in defence as Abdoulaye Meite is away at the African Nations Cup. Otherwise it’s an almost fully-fit squad to choose from. Ishmael Miller made a comeback in the reserves but this game will come too soon.
West Brom defender Neil Clement has retired due to a lengthy ongoing knee injury.
Nottm Forest welcome back defender Nicky Shorey(2assists), but midfielder Guy Moussi is doubtful following a 6 week lay-off. Julian Bennett continues his rehab and also misses out.
Prediction: Draw
 
Cardiff City v Blackpool
Cardiff city midfielder Gavin Rae(1goal,1assist) is in contention for a place in the squad despite previously being ruled out for 4 weeks.
Stephen McPhail is still undergoing cancer treatment and Riccy Scimeca has retired.
However, Jay Bothroyd(6goals,6assists), Joe Ledley(2goals,2assists), Kevin McNaughton & Mark Kennedy have had time to recover from their knocks and should all be fit.
Blackpool may give on-loan defender Andy Butler a start at Cardiff, but defender Ian Evatt(3goals) & Rob Edwards will both sit out due to suspensions.
Striker Billy Clarke(1goal) & winger Hameur Bouazza(1goal) are suffering knee injury & international call-up respectively.
 
Coventry City v Barnsley
Sky Blues keeper Kieran Westwood should be fit to play in goal again following injury, and defender Leon Barnett(1assist) and striker Gary Madine should both be available.
However, loanee Jack Cork has returned to parent club Chelsea so is ruled out.
Long-term absentees Ben Turner, Jordon Clarke & Isaac Osbourne are still nearing fitness but will miss the visit of Barnsley.
Barnsley, unbeaten in eight league matches have a fully-fit squad for manager Mark Robins to choose from but he may not tinker around too much.
 
Crystal Palace v Bristol City
Palace starlet Victor Moses(5goals,2assists) & Danny Butterfield(2assists) should both return to the squad for the visit of fellow play-off hopefuls Bristol City.
Sean Scannell, Patrick McCarthy(1assist) & Nick Carle are all missing for The Eagles.
Ironically, there will be an absence of snow at Crystal Palace this weekend – Evander Sno(2goals) is rated doubtful as he returns from Holland attending a funeral and may not make it back in time.
Gavin Williams(1assist) is fit to play following a head injury, but defender Lewin Nyatanga sits out due to a ban.
Jamie McCombe is injured but striker John Akinde has returned from his loan spell at Wycombe Wanderers and may get a recall.
 
Derby County v Scunthorpe Utd
Derby defender Dean Leacock is expected to be out for another month following knee problems, while fellow defender Shaun Barker(1goal) is making a recovery in the reserves next week but both players will miss the visit of Scunthorpe this weekend.
However, on-loan defender Nicky Hunt could make his debut in the defence, while midfielder Lee Hendrie(3assists) is set to be out injured. Fellow midfielder Lee Croft(1goal,2assists) could start, and strikers DJ Campbell(1goal) and Luke Varney could be welcomed back into the fold.
Scunthorpe leading scorer Gary Hooper(7goals,3assists) should be fit following an ankle injury & flu, and first choice keeper Joe Murphy should be recalled following a shoulder injury.
Midfielder Grant McCann(5goals,1assist) is suspended, but Andrew Wright is available again as he’s completed his suspension.
Defender Rob Jones(1goal,1assist) is doubtful along with Niall Canavan, but Michael O`Connor(1goal,1assist) is pushing for a recall in midfield.

Middlesbrough v Swansea City – Postponed
 
Preston NE v Doncaster Rovers – Postponed
 
QPR v Plymouth Argyle
QPR striker Rowan Vine(1goal,2assists) has been ruled out, so Patrick Agyemang(3goals) & Jay Simpson(9goals,1assist) should continue their partnership up front.
On-loan keeper Carl Ikeme (Wolves) will probably be on the bench with Radek Cerny retaining his place between the sticks.
Long-term absentees Martin Rowlands, Lee Cook and Gavin Mahon(1goal,1assist) are all still sidelined.
Plymouth midfielder Luke Summerfield(1assist) is doubtful with a hamstring injury, but winger Alan Judge(5goals,2assists) is fit to retain his place.
Jim Patterson is ruled out and Bradley Wright-Phillips is doubtful despite nearing fitness but lacks match practice.
Defender Rede Johnson is on African Cup duty but Yannick Bolasie could return to the squad following a loan spell at Barnet.
 
Reading v Newcastle Utd – Postponed
 
Sheffield Wednesday v Peterborough Utd – Postponed
 
Watford v Sheffield Utd – Postponed

Leicester City v Ipswich Town
Leicester defender Wayne Brown should be fit to play, along with fellow centre-back Bruno Berner(2goals,1assist), while striker Martyn Waghorn(5goals,1assist) returns from suspension.
Ipswich striker Jon Stead(6goals,2assists) is suspended, while defender Gareth McAuley(3goals) should be fit despite a hand injury.

Premier League injuries / suspensions Team News 19-21 December 2009

Portsmouth v Liverpool
Portsmouth keeper David James is expected to be fit for the visit of his former club, inconsistent Liverpool on Saturday.
Apart from that, Avram Grant appears to have a fully-fit squad.
Liverpool have doubts over Alberto Riera(3assists),Glen Johnson(2goals,1assist),Nabil El Zhar & Ryan Babel(2goals,1assist), as the Reds continue their bid for a top-four finish.
 
Aston Villa v Stoke City
Villa have doubts over Craig Gardner & Wilfred Bouma, but Curtis Davies(1goal) is still ruled out.
Stoke City look set to be without midfielder Abdoulaye Faye(1goal) for the trip to the West Midlands.
 
Blackburn v Tottenham
Blackburn Rovers have doubts over Vince Grella & leading scorer David Dunn(5goals,1assist) for the visit of high-flying Tottenham.
However, Brett Emerton(1assist) is still sidelined.
Tottenham are likely to be missing injured trio of Carlo Cudicini, Jonathan Woodgate & Ledley King for the visit to Ewood Park.
 
Fulham v Manchester United
Fulham striker Bobby Zamora(5goals,2assists) is expected to be fit despite a back niggle.
However, Simon Davies and Diomansy Kamara(1goal) are both likely to be missing again.
Man United’s injury woes continue with nine players on the injury list although Ryan Giggs(2goals,8assists) and Nani(1goal,1assist) could be included in the squad that travels to Craven Cottage.
 
Manchester City v Sunderland
Man City will be without key defenders Joleon Lescott(1goal,1assist) & Wayne Bridge for the visit of Sunderland.
Their African defender Kolo Toure(1goal) will also be missing during January with the African nations cup representing Ivory Coast.
Sunderland will again be without defender Anton Ferdinand(1assist) and Craig Gordon, but Boudewijn Zenden may be fit in time and could travel.
 
Arsenal v Hull City
The Gunners will be without key playmaker Cesc Fabregas(7goals,10assists) due to a hamstring injury.
Bendtner, Djourou,Van Persie,Rosicky and Gibbs are all likely to be missing again also.
Hull City midfielder Seyi Olofinjana(1goal) hopes he can delay his travel to African Nations to assist his side in the Premiership.
 
Wolves v Burnley
Wolves will be missing midfielder Dave Edwards(1goal) with an ankle injury. He joins fellow midfielder Michael Kightly & striker Andrew Keogh(1goal,1assist) on the sidelines.
Burnley will once again be without injured trio Chris Mccann,Jay Rodriguez and Martin Paterson as The Clarets still continue to seek their first away win of the season.
It may well come this weekend against a poor Wolves outfit.
 
Everton v Birmingham City
Everton’s injury list has lengthened as Jack Rodwell joins the legion of absentees with a hamstring injury.
Joseph Yobo(1goal),Sylvain Distin,Dan Gosling(1goal),Mikel Arteta,Phil Neville,Phil Jagielka,Victor Anichebe and James Vaughan are already sidelined as Everton look to halt Birmingham’s impressive run of results.
Birmingham will still be without Stuart Parnaby,Gary Ó`Connor,David Murphy,Martin Taylor and Teemu Tainio, although boss Alex McLeish will hope to field an unchanged team for a sixth successive match.
 
West Ham v Chelsea
West Ham entertain leaders Chelsea hoping for a win to help them climb out of the relegation zone, but will have to face them missing eight first teamers including leading scorer Carlton Cole.
Chelsea look set to be without Michael Essien(3goals),Daniel Sturridge and Jose Bosingwa(1assist) as they look to extend the gap between themselves and Manchester Utd.
Didier Drogba(13goals,5assists) should be fit in time to play.
 
Wigan v Bolton
Wigan keeper Chris Kirkwood will miss the match against local rivals Bolton with a back injury, so Mike Pollitt will deputise.
Bolton midfielder Sean Davis will again remain on the sidelines.
 

Coca Cola Championship Injuries/Suspensions Team News – 19-20 November 2009
 
Blackpool v West Brom
Blackpool striker Daniel Nardiello has returned from his loan spell at Bury and could be in line for an instant call-up against the Baggies.
However, midfielders David Vaughan(1goal,3assists) and Charlie Adam(7goals,5assists) will both be out, along with doubts over striker Ben Burgess(4goals,1assist) and Billy Clarke(1goal).
West Brom reserve keeper Dean Kiely will continue between the sticks as Scott Carson serves a three match ban following his sending off the other week.
Youssouff Mulumbu(3goals) could make a return following a knee injury, but Robert Koren, Ismael Miller, Neil Clement and James Morrison all continue on the sidelines.
 
Bristol City v Reading
Bristol City will be without midfielder Ivan Sproule(1goal) as they take on hapless Reading.
Evander Sno(2goals) is available again after suspension, but there are doubts over skipper Louis Carey(1goal).
Reading have parted company with manager Brendan Rodgers along with his backroom staff, as Chief Scout Brian McDermott takes over temporarily.
McDermott has striker Shane Long available following a three match ban, and hopes that Simon Church(3goals) is also available.
Noel Hunt and Brian Howard will still be missing though for The Royals.
 
Cardiff City v Leicester City
Cardiff boss Dave Jones hopes for a surprise return of on-loan striker Kelvin Etuhu for the crunch match against Leicester City.
However, Riccardo Scimeca will definitely not play after announcing his retirement from the game.
Miguel Comminges is out with ligament trouble and Stephen McPhail is also out as he’s currently undergoing treatment for cancer.
McNaughton and Whittingham could return for the Bluebirds.
Leicester City defender Bruno Berner(2goals,1assist) is a major doubt for The Foxes, and on-loan striker Martyn Waghorn(5goals,1assist) will be missing as he serves a suspension.
 
Crystal Palace v Barnsley
Palace will hand late fitness tests to midfielders Darren Ambrose(11goals,1assist) and Neil Danns(2goals,1assist) after suffering from a virus.
Defender Paddy McCarthy(1assist) is still sidelined.
Barnsley manager Mark Robins welcomes back skipper Stephen Foster(1goal) to the defence.
The Tykes are looking to extend their seven match unbeaten run.
 
Derby County v Doncaster Rovers
Derby veteran on-loan striker Paul Dickov is hoping his stay is extended until the end of the season, while defender Dean Leacock and striker Rob Hulse(6goals) could return to the Rams lineup.
On-loan Fredrik Stoor will miss out though with an ankle injury, as too will Kris Commons(1goal) but might return next week.
Doncaster midfielder Martin Woods continues on the injury list but otherwise they have no other injury concerns.
 
Peterborough v Watford
This may be Peterborough’s best chance of grabbing three points as Watford have one eye on the impending threat of administration.
Peterborough striker Aaron Mclean(6goals,2assists) could be in line to continue up front despite having a transfer request accepted in the week.
Defender Gabriel Zakuani could return to the back four as he recovers from injury.
Watford will check the fitness of Henri Lansbury(2goals,3assists) and defender Craig Cathcart.
Midfielder Ross Jenkins sits out following a back operation.
 
Plymouth Argyle v Coventry City
Plymouth are boosted by the return of on-loan Villa defender Shane Lowry,but they have a major doubt over defender Jim Patterson.
Darcy Blake & David Gray are also doubts so will have late fitness checks.
Coventry have doubts over defender Richard Wood(1goal) and Jordan Clarke will again be missing through split knee ligaments.
Marcus Hall, Ben Turner and Isaac Osbourne also all remain out.
 
QPR v Sheffield Utd
New QPR boss Paul Hart takes charge in his first game for the R’s against visiting Sheffield United.
Full-back Gary Borrowdale is hoping to be fit for Hart’s first game.
Keeper Radek Cerny should be fit to play, but Akos Buzsaky(7goals,1assist) is extremely doubtful with a knee problem. Striker Angelo Balanta is fit again.
Blades midfielder Nick Montgomery returns from his suspension,but striker Darius Henderson(10goals) may miss out again.
Keith Treacy and Andrew Davies have returned to their parent clubs after their loan spells ended.
 
Scunthorpe Utd v Ipswich Town
Scunthorpe hope to have Cliff Byrne(1goal) and Martyn Woolford(4goals) back in the squad when they host lowly Ipswich Town.
Keeper Joe Murphy should return to the side after serving a one-match ban, but long-term absentees Kenny Milne & Ben May are still sidelined.
Ipswich manager Roy Keane will be without suspended midfield pair Jon Walters(5goals,1assist) and Grant Leadbitter(2goals,5assists).
However, defender Alex Bruce(1goal) is set to return to the squad.
 
Sheffield Weds v Swansea City
The Owls have parted company with former manager Brian Laws as they seek to turn around their ailing form.
Caretaker boss Sean MacAuley is set to make some changes in an attempt to turn Wednesdays fortunes around and has a fully fit squad to choose from.
Swans could welcome back Tom Butler(1goal) and Stephen Dobbie for the visit to Hillsbrough.
Mark Gower(1goal,3assists) will miss out again.
 
Nottm Forest v Preston NE
Forest manager Billy Davies will be without defender Julian Bennett and midfielder Guy Moussi(1goal) as they seek another three points that could see the Tricky Trees move into third spot.
Preston will be hoping that midfielder Billy Jones(2goals,2assists) is fit again, while Youl Mawene and Barry Nicholson are still sidelined with knee ligaments and broken leg respectively.
 
Newcastle Utd v Middlesbrough
Newcastle will be without teenager Haris Vuckic and midfielder Joey Barton when they host local rivals Boro in the Northeast derby.
But most importantly, they will be missing striker Andy Carroll(4goals,5assists) who serves a one-match suspension.
Boro are without Seb Hines,leading scorer Adam Johnson(8goals,4assists),Didier Digard,Jeremie Aliadiere(3goals) and Matthew Bates.

Premier League injuries / suspensions Team News 12-13 December 2009
 
Stoke City v Wigan Athletic
Stoke pair – manager Tony Pulis and striker James Beattie have apparently kissed and made up (after Pulis gave Beattie a Glaswegian kiss recently).
They will await a late fitness test on defender Ryan Shawcross(1 goal), but Abdoulaye Faye(1 goal) is again ruled out with a back injury.
James Beattie to score first goal perhaps??
Wigan first choice keeper Chris Kirkland could be ruled out with a back injury.
Former Man City left-back Michael Ball could sign on a free transfer to Wigan very shortly.

Birmingham City v West Ham
The Blues host a despondent West Ham side and hope that their fantastic run of form continues. However, they still have players missing; Stuart Parnaby, Garry O’Connor(1 goal), Teemu Tainio, Martin Taylor & David Murphy are all still sidelined.
Sadly it’s unlikely that we’ll see Ruud Van Nistelroy at St Andrews any time soon. It’s a strange fact that Birmingham have scored more goals away than at home so far this season – food for thought…
West Ham bid farewell to striker Dean Ashton who’s been forced to hang up his boots at the age of 26.
This leaves the Est London club woefully short of firepower up front as Carlton Cole, Luis Boa Morte and Zavon Hines are all out.
Added to this list are Valon Behrami and Callum Davenport although Mark Noble(2 goals,3assists), Robert Green and Luis Jiminez(1 goal,1 assist) should be fit to play.

Bolton v Manchester City
Bolton’s Sean Davis and Joey O`Brien are still sidelined as Megson seeks a much-needed win to keep his job intact.
Defender Danny Shittu and midfielder Riga Mustapha are expected to be fit for the visit of close neighbours Man City.
Man City will be missing key defender Wayne Bridge and Stephen Ireland,Vladimir Weiss,Micah Richards(1 goal,1 assist) and Craig Bellamy(5 goals,3assists) are doubtful.

Burnley v Fulham
Burnley expect to have injured trio Paterson, McCann and Rodriguez still out through injury, but otherwise no other injuries to report as The Clarets look to secure their sixth home win against visitors Fulham.
The Cottagers have Simon Davies(1 assist), Dickson Etuhu and Andy Johnson(1 assist) out injured, while striker Diomansy Kamara(1 goal) has another couple of weeks to be fit.

Chelsea v Everton
Chelsea look to extend their 100% home record against Everton but will have to do without influential midfielder Michael Essien(3 goals) with a hamstring injury. He joins Daniel Sturridge, Salomon Kalou(2assists) & Jose Bosingwa on the treatment table.
However, Alex, Joe Cole(1 goal) & Michael Ballack(3 goals,2assists) could return to the squad.
Everton have no less than 9 of their first team squad injured, but fear not, they look to have just landed LA Galaxy striker Landon Donovan who is expected to sign in January. I’ll stick my neck out and say that he will not make any kind of impact at Goodison Park. There, I’ve said it! Luckily, Tim Cahill’s still fit.

Hull City v Blackburn
Just when you thought Jimmy Bullard(2 goals) is back – bang, out injured again, along with long-term absentee Ian Ashbee, although Seyi Olofinjana(1 goal) may be fit again following a hamstring.
Blackburn have gotta fancy this one & record only their second away win.
However leading scorer David Dunn(5 goals) will have to pass a late fitness test.

Sunderland v Portsmouth
The Black Cats entertain cash-strapped Pompey at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand has been ruled out for a month which might just see fewer defensive errors in his absence.
He’s joined by keeper Craig Gordon and Lee Cattermole on the sidelines. George McCartney and John Mensah should be fit to play.
Portsmouth hope that keeper David James is fit to travel to Sunderland as they fight off the administrators.
It would be Avram Grant’s greatest success yet if he guides Portsmouth to another Premiership season I reckon.

Tottenham v Wolves
Spurs are set to be without defender Jonathan Woodgate, midfielder Wilson Palacios(1 goal,1 assist) and Carlo Cudicini.
Tottenham could go third above arch-rivals Arsenal with a win here against poor travellers Wolves.
Wolves will be without Michael Kightly, while Chris Iwelumo and David Jones could return but on the bench as they look to climb out of the relegation zone.

Manchester United v Aston Villa
Man United have a host of injuries ahead of their clash with Villa at Old Trafford – key defenders Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Wayne Brown all out injured.
Too many to mention here, but suffice to say you might get a bit of value on either a Villa win or +0.5 on this one.
Villa for their part have Wilfred Bouma and Curtis Davies(1 goal) out injured as they seek 3 points that could see them go third.

Liverpool v Arsenal
Liverpool striker Ryan Babel(2 goals,1 assist) is doubtful for the visit of The Gunners as Benitez now turns his attention to the Premiership – too late Benitez!
Arsenal have a whole team out injured including Van Persie,Bendtner & Rosicky. Can Wengers babes grab an unlikely victory here – maybe not. I think Benitez’s job is safe for at least another week.

Coca Cola Championship Injuries/Suspensions Team News – 12-14 November 2009
 
Barnsley v Newcastle United
Barnsley defender Stephen Foster(1 goal) is expected to return to the side following an eye injury.
Manager Mark Robins has no other injury concerns as his side entertain league leaders Newcastle Utd.
Newcastle striker Andy Carroll(4 goals,3assists) has been included in the squad that travels to Barnsley.
Midfielder Joey Barton remains sidelined, but Shola Ameobi(5 goals) should continue up front after returning from a 3 month lay-off.

Coventry City v Peterborough United
A real six-pointer this one…
Coventry have seven players out injured for their vital match against Peterborough; Jordan Clarke, Richard Wood(1 goal), Marcus Hall, Ben Turner, Sammy Clingan(3 goals,1 assist) & goalkeeper Dimi Konstantopoulos are all sidelined.
However, skipper Stephen Wright returns from suspension.
Posh have defenders Gabriel Zakuani and Charlie Lee back in contention, but Paul Coutts is rated as doubtful.

Doncaster Rovers v Bristol City
Rovers midfielder Martin Woods(4 goals,5assists) is doubtful for the visit of Bristol City.
If Woods doesn’t make it Simon Gillett(1 assist) will continue. Striker Billy Sharp(8 goals,2assists) has scored in all of the last six matches.
Bristol City are boosted by the expected return of defender Louis Carey(1 goal), while Ivan Sproule(1 goal) should continue after scoring last weekend.

Ipswich Town v Blackpool
Ipswich have winger Lee Martin(1 goal,1 assist) doubtful along with Alex Bruce(1 goal) for the visit of Blackpool.
Keeper Richard Wright & Luciano Civelli remain long-term absentees. However, David Norris is approaching full fitness.
Blackpool look set to reinstate keeper Matt Gilks to the side and Gary Taylor-Fletcher(4 goals,1 assist) will continue up front.
But Rob Edwards, Billy Clarke(1 goal) and Ben Burgess(4 goals,1 assist) are all likely to be missing through injury.

Leicester City v Sheffield Wednesday
Leicester striker Martyn Waghorn(5 goals,1 assist) is suspended and will miss the next 3 matches.
Matty Fryatt(10 goals,1 assist) could return to the starting line-up.
Sheff Weds look set to stick with the same side that lost away at Doncaster – Darren Purse continues in defence alongside Beevers & Sean McAllister as Brian Laws may continue with the 4-5-1 formation.

Preston North End v Plymouth Argyle
Preston full-back Billy Jones(2 goals,2assists) may be fit when they host struggling Plymouth at home.
Defender Youl Mawene remains on the injury list though along with long-term absentee Barry Nicholson.
New Plymouth manager Paul Mariner takes over where Sturrock left off and will have to do without Shane Lowry (suspended), while David Gray is rated as doubtful. Yoann Folly is also doubtful.

Reading v Scunthorpe United
Reading striker Simon Church(3 goals) looks set to return to the side, but Shane Long sits out his final match through suspension.
Noel Hunt(2 goals) & Brian Howard are also missing through injury.
Scunthorpe keeper Joe Murphy is suspended so Josh Lillis is likely to replace him.
Martyn Woolford(4 goals) & Michael O`Connor(1 goal,1 assist) are both rated doubtful, while Ben May and Kenny Milne remain injured.

Sheffield United v Crystal Palace
Blades midfielder Nick Montgomery will miss the game against Palace due to a one-match suspension.
On-loan defender Toni Kallio and Darius Henderson(10 goals) both look likely to miss out also. Keeper Mark Bunn should retain his place.
Palace only have defender Paddy McCarthy as their injury absentee as manager Neil Warnock revisits one of his olod stomping grounds with his Palace side.

Swansea City v Nottingham Forest
A couple of months ago these teams were in the lower end of the table but this has now turned into a play-off place battle; Swans hand a late fitness test to striker Craig Beattie(3 goals,1 assist), but defender Alan Tate(1 goal) returns from suspension.
Garry Monk again sits out with a calf strain while Thomas Butler(1 goal), Ferrie Bodde,Mark Gower and Stephen Dobbie all remain absent.
Forest who’ve yet to loose away from home so far, could welcome back Guy Moussi(1 goal) for their vital clash at Swansea.
Billy Davies only has Julian Bennett out injured as they look to close the gap on second-placed West Brom.

Watford v Derby County
Watford striker Heidur Helguson(5 goals) looks set to get a recall to the side, with Nathan Ellington likely to make way.
Midfielder Henri Lansbury(2 goals,3assists) will face a late fitness test ahead of the visit of the Rams.
Derby defender Jake Buxton(1 goal,1 assist) could return to the defence as Shaun Barker(1 goal) and Dean Leacock are set to be sidelined again.
Derby striker Steven Davies(1 assist) could make a olong-awaited return to the squad after a lengthy lay-off.

Middlesbrough v Cardiff City
Boro midfielder Gary O`Neil(3 goals,4assists) is expected to be fit for the clash with Cardiff on Sunday.
On-loan striker Marcus Bent should also be available as Boro look to put right their dismal home form.
Cardiff midfielder Joe Ledley(2assists) is expected to play and Jay Bothroyd(5 goals,5assists) should also return after suspension.
Doubtful trio Kevin McNaughton, Riccy Scimeca and Kelvin Etuhu all face late fitness tests.

West Brom v QPR
West Brom keeper Scott Carson is out through suspension as he serves a 3 match ban following his sending off against Cardiff in midweek. Striker Roman Bednar(3 goals) hopes to retain his place in the starting line-up.
QPR will be without suspended manager Jim Magilton following an incident with Buczsacky – no other team news available.

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 5-6 December 2009
 
Portsmouth v Burnley
Pompey will be missing defender Linvoy Primus again as they bid to climb away from the foot of the table when they take on Burnley at Fratton Park.
Keeper David James, Papa Bouba Diop and Steve Finnan will face late fitness tests.
Burnley will again be without injured trio Jay Rodriguez, Chris McCann and Martin Paterson as the Clarets seek their first away win of the season.
 
Arsenal v Stoke City
Arsenal will continue without striker Robin Van Persie(7 goals,7 assists), Kieran Gibbs, Gael Clichy, Nicklas Bendtner(1 goal,1 assist) & Johan Djourou when they take on Stoke City at the Emirates Stadium.
Stoke’s Abdoulaye Faye(1 goal) is sidelined again, while they will test the fitness of highly rated defender Ryan Shawcross(1 goal) prior to the trip.
 
Aston Villa v Hull City
Villa could go fourth if they beat Hull on Saturday. They will again be without defender Curtis Davies, and Stephen Warnock(1 assist) & James Collins(1 goal) will have to be assessed before the match.
Hull are the only other team in the Premiership yet to record an away win, and they’ll have to do without skipper Ian Ashbee again.
Striker Craig Fagan and Seyi Olofinjana(1 goal) are close to returns as the Tigers seek their first away win.
 
Blackburn v Liverpool
Rovers take on shaky Liverpool on the back of dumping Chelsea out of the Reserves er I mean, Carling Cup.
However, they will be without leading scorer David Dunn(5 goals,1 assist) who is injured with a calf strain. Defender Martin Olsson is still suffering with a virus and is doubtful.
Liverpool will travel to Ewood Park without striker Ryan Babel(2 goals,1 assist), while fellow striker Fernando Torres(10 goals,1 assist) may not be fit in time.
 
West Ham v Manchester Utd
If the Hammers weren’t already facing an uphill task against rampant United – they are now. Leading scorer Carlton Cole(7 goals,1 assist) is out for a few weeks with a knee injury, leaving Guillermo Franco(3 goals,1 assist) leading the line.
Luis Boa Morte, Callum Davenport & Dean Ashton remain sidelined, while West Ham will be hoping that defender Matthew Upson(2 goals) & Alessandro Diamanti(2 goals,1 assist) recover from their hamstring and hip injuries respectively.
For Man Utd, midfielder Owen Hargreaves is still a couple of weeks away, along with Rio Ferdinand who is still injured.
United await the fitness of keeper Edwin Van der Sar, Fabio, John O`Shea(1 goal,1 assist) and Jonny Evans as they bid to close the gap on leaders Chelsea.

Wigan v Birmingham City
Wigan take on Birmingham who have been unbeaten in five matches.
Wigan don’t have any injuries to report on.
Birmingham’s injury list has eased slightly but they will still be without defenders Stuart Parnaby, Martin Taylor and David Murphy.
Striker Garry O`Connor(1 goal) is ruled out also, while Damien Johnson may be fit again.
However, it is unlikely that boss Alex McLeish will tinker with his line-up as Blues seek a third successive win.
 
Wolves v Bolton
Wolves’ woes continue as winger Michael Kightly has been ruled out with an ankle injury sustained in last weekend’s derby with Birmingham City.
Murray continues on the sidelines, while Ronald Zubar, Chris Iwelumo and David Jones are rated as doubtful for the vital relegation battle with Bolton.
Bolton will be without midfielder Sean Davis and Joey O`Brien, while Danny Shittu & Riga are doubtful.
 
Manchester City v Chelsea
Manchester City’s creative midfielder Martin Petrov(3 goals,2 assists) is still sidelined as City seek to spoil Chelsea’s reign at the top of the league.
City are unbeaten at home so far, while Chelsea slay all in their wake; something’s gotta give.
Chelsea travel to Eastlands once again without Jose Bosingwa(1 assist) who is sidelined for around 8 weeks with a knee injury.
 
Fulham v Sunderland
Fulham striker Andrew Johnson(1 assist) is facing a lengthy lay-off after an exploratory groin operation and misses out again as the Cottagers take on Sunderland at Craven Cottage.
Diomansy Kamara(1 goal) is the other absentee as Fulham make slow but steady progress up the league.
Sunderland will definitely be missing keeper Craig Gordon and Lee Cattermole for the away trip to Fulham. Their away form is an exact reverse of their impressive home record so far!
 
Everton v Tottenham
Everton continue to flirt with the relegation zone as several key players continue to sit it out on the sidelines.
James Vaughan, Phil Neville, Victor Anichebe, Phil Jagielka & Mikel Arteta are all missing, while Jack Rodwell and Leon Osman(1 goal) are doubtful. However, Russian winger Diniyar Bilyaletdinov(2 goals) impressed in Europa League midweek and may well start.
Spurs keeper Carlo Cudicini and Luka Modric are still out for Tottenham, along with Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King – both defenders fighting to be fit for the trip to Goodison Park.