Aberdeen

Saturday 19^th February

English FA Cup

Birmingham v Sheffield Wednesday

Both Birmingham and Sheffield Wednesday have not performed as well as they would have wished in the league this season so the Cup is proving a welcome distraction.

Alex McLeish’s side are looking forward to one cup final already as they take on Arsenal in the League cup at the end of the month at Wembley. With a home tie against lower league opposition in the FA Cup, things are looking good for an extended run in this competition as well. Currently in 14^th position in the league, the Blues have not hit the heights of last season but have put a decent enough run together. Before losing the Newcastle during the week, Birmingham had won four of their last five in all competitions. At home they remain hard to beat as the defeat to Newcastle was only their third all season. Their main problem has been the amount of draws they have accumulated with seven games already ending in stalemate.

Sheffield Wednesday have been desperately disappointing and look as though they could miss out n the play-off’s altogether in their current form. They currently sit in 16^th position and a massive 10 points off the final play-off position. Their current form is deplorable for a club of their size with just one win, in the last round of the cup, from their last eight matches. Gary Megson has been brought to the club to attempt to save their season but the impact has been slim to none. Players look as though they are lacking discipline and organisation. No club is too big to go down when players are not performing and Megson will be only too well aware of the fact that the Owls are just five points off the final relegation spot. The cup may well provide the distraction that is needed to get things back on track but the priority for Wednesday is most definitely the league, and staying in it at this point.

Birmingham seemed to have been rejuvenated in recent weeks with the signings of players such as David Bentley and Obafemi Martins. These signings have put pressure on the players currently there and one man who has risen to the challenge and proven he has a role to play is Nikola Zigic. The giant striker has scored three goals in his last four games including winning goals against both Stoke and West Ham. Often subject to criticism from his own fans, Zigic seems as though he’s proving the doubters wrong of late. A player of his size should always be a threat and it looks as though he’s finally matching the effort to stature.

Wednesday have impressed with comprehensive wins over Bristol City and Hereford thus far in the competition but this is by far their biggest test to date. Megson will no doubt look to frustrate the home side with a resolute, dogged display. Birmingham will be used to it by now and although they may have struggled previously, there seems to be more creativity in the side nowadays. With that in mind, I fully expect the home side to advance to the quarter finals of another cup competition.

My Selection: Birmingham to beat Sheffield Wednesday

Best odds available: 7/10 available with William Hill

English Championship

Millwall v Middlesbrough

These two sides need points for very different reasons as Millwall attempt to chase down a play-off position whilst Middlesbrough are desperate to move further away from the relegation zone.

I have previewed a couple of Millwall games in the last couple of months and most of the analysis still applies. They are a hard side to beat, especially at home; their style of play is very effective, especially at home; and they continue to accumulate points, especially at home. Currently on a run of six straight home wins in the league, Millwall are still a serious contender for promotion. Kenny Jackett’s side have shown a tremendous attitude in their first season back in the Championship since winning the League One play-off final last season. This attitude has been reinforced in recent weeks with three points from a possible six being rescued with goals in the last minute. The man who has notched both times is Kevin Lisbie who was scoring only his second and third goals of the season, and first since August. This is testament to the team morale and spirit within the camp as Lisbie has had to contend with a place on the bench more often than not. However he has continued to work hard and has got his rewards in recent weeks.

Tony Mowbray was welcome like a prodigal son when taking the reins earlier this season. The former ‘Boro defender has probably not had the impact he wished to have by now but things are slowly beginning to turn for the better. That was the case until recently as after a run of six matches unbeaten in the league came to a halt with back to back defeats. They were on the wrong end of reverse in a seven goal thriller at home to Swansea last Saturday which followed on from a narrow defeat away to Crystal Palace. Those losses have pushed Middlesbrough back into the relegation mix as they sit four points off the drop zone. Mowbray has attempted to be more cavalier in recent weeks by going three upfront. The formation has meant more chances created and goals scored but also leaves them open at the back. This was of course highlighted in the goals fest last Saturday.

The rule of three applies in this fixture as Millwall have lost just three games from a total of 15 games played at the New Den this season whilst ‘Boro have won just three on the road from the same number of games. It really does underline the difference between the two sides. I’m always a fan of Millwall at home and even more so in this match up.

My Selections: Millwall to beat Middlesbrough

Best odds available: 11/10 available with Skybet

Scottish Premier League

Aberdeen v Kilmarnock

Thirteen points separate these two sides but incredibly, it’s Kilmarnock who are streets ahead of tomorrow’s hosts, Aberdeen, as we approach the SPL split.

Craig Brown had an instant impact when replacing Mark McGhee as manager towards the end of last year. Confidence was high, results were noticeably better and performances definitely improved. Things have unravelled a little of late, however, and the Dons are currently on a run of three defeats in four games in all competitions. Granted, two of those defeats were against league leaders and the form side of the division – Celtic. However they turned in a very lacklustre performance on Tuesday when losing 2-1 at home to Motherwell. Even before losing Paul Hartley to a red card, it wasn’t the Aberdeen we came to expect under Brown, who was certainly not shy in telling his players that displays such as Tuesdays will not be tolerated in future. The positive thing for all concerned at Aberdeen is that they have a chance to quickly rectify things tomorrow.

Kilmarnock have enjoyed a terrific season to date and have earned many plaudits for the style of play. One man who was key to their success was Connor Sammon who has since departed to pastures new in the form of Wigan. It’s hard not to underestimate how important the tall striker was as he is still the second top scorer with 15 league goals. It was an incredible return for a striker playing with one of the lesser sides in the SPL and since he left, Kilmarnock have found it hard to kill off teams like they were with him in the side.  Despite taking the lead in several matches, Killie have won just once in seven matches. Last time out they were very poor as they lost to Hibs at Easter Road.

I’m a big fan of Craig Brown and believe he is one of the best managers in the SPL. Having watched them several times recently, Aberdeen have decent quality, especially going forward but need to shore up defensively. I was also a great admirer of Connor Sammon this season as he had everything you would look for in a striker – pace, strength, good finisher and good in the air. Without him Kilmarnock are a much weaker side and I can see them struggling without him in the closing months of the season. Aberdeen are too big a price tomorrow to resist and the value definitely lies with the Dandy Dons.

My Selection: Aberdeen to beat Kilmarnock

Best odds available: 13/8 available with PaddyPower

Saturday 29^th January

English FA Cup

Aston Villa v Blackburn Rovers

One of five all Premier League ties takes placed at Villa Park on Saturday as a rejuvenated Aston Villa play host to in-form Blackburn.

Gerard Houllier has had to endure a tough few months since taking over as Villa boss after Martin O’Neill’s resignation. Player unrest, unhappy supporters as well as a clear downturn in results, had some pundits calling for his head. That was a fortnight ago and that’s a long time in football. After a club record fee of £24m was paid for Darren Bent, and a couple of back to back wins against Manchester City and Wigan, things are beginning to look a lot brighter. The FA Cup always brings with it excitement and hope and that’s exactly the way Villa fans will be looking at it. With little or no chance of getting anywhere near the European spots at the end of the season, and already knocked out the League cup, the supporters need something to look forward to and Houllier and his players will be under no illusions that a home tie against a club such as Blackburn is an excellent opportunity to advance.

Blackburn Rovers are the latest Premier League club to have been taken over by an obscenely rich consortium. Sam Allardyce paid the price for not being attractive enough in the new owners’ eyes and was swiftly replaced with a relatively unknown in Steve Kean. Kean was Chris Coleman’s assistant for the last seven years but has been entrusted with the task of forcing Blackburn into European contention in the coming years. He has started relatively well as the club have climbed to seventh in the table and have won three of their last four in all competitions.  He has looked the strengthen as well with new arrivals in the shape of Jermaine Jones from Schalke and a former fans favourite, Roque Santa Cruz who was brought in from Man City. With the money available to Kean set to soar in the summer, it will be a matter of time before the Blackburn Rovers squad is transformed and the new arrivals will flood the squad.

When you consider the players still playing for Villa, then it’s a massive surprise to see them struggling as they have been. Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Stewart Downing are all English internationalists from recent seasons and have undoubted quality. As well as Bent, Jean Makoun has also arrived at the club to bolster the squad for the remainder of the season. Currently on their best run of the season to date with three wins and a draw from their last four, things are beginning to look up.

Rovers have a pretty poor record when travelling to the Midlands to take on Villa in recent seasons. Last year’s 1-0 victory was their first success in eight. The sides met in the FA Cup last season as well, in the third round. Aston Villa came out on top that day with a 3-1 victory.

I’m a firm believer in the ‘form is temporary, class is permanent’ line of thinking. Villa have plenty of class about them and even without Darren Bent, who is cup tied as he played for Sunderland in the previous round, I still fancy the home side to come out on top in what promises to be an entertaining match.

My selection: Aston Villa to beat Blackburn Rovers

Best odds available: 10/11 available with Stan James

Scottish League Cup

Celtic v Aberdeen

Either Celtic or Aberdeen can take a step closer towards the first piece of silverware in Scottish football this season as they clash at Hampden Park.

Celtic face Aberdeen just one week on from their league match at Celtic Park last Saturday. The home side ran out 1-0 winners thanks to a goal from Anthony Stokes. Since that match, both sides have recorded victories with Celtic brushing aside 3rd placed Hearts 4-0. It was a scintillating performance by the Hoops who turned in their best performance of the season on Wednesday. Stokes notched a double whilst James Forrest and Paddy McCourt also got on the score sheet. It made it 12 games unbeaten for Neil Lennon’s side, with seven wins and five draws. Another impressive statistic is the fact that they have only conceded one goal in their last eight matches. It’s an astounding record and one which they will hope can continue. Two young men can take a lot of credit for the shutouts with goalkeeper Fraser Forster and centre half, Thomas Rogne, at the heart of the defence.

Aberdeen were featured a couple of weeks ago in these previews and the job Craig Brown and Archie Knox have done thus far, is growing. Apart from the defeat at Celtic Park last Saturday, the Dons were victorious against St Mirren 2-0, whilst they also defeated Inverness Caley Thistle last time out by the same score line. Brown was pleased with the effort, organisation and discipline his side showed in defeat to the current league leaders last weekend. However, they rarely threatened the Celtic goal and struggled to make any clear cut chances. If they wish to be successful tomorrow, it’s something which has to change. One man who is capable of causing problems at the National stadium tomorrow, is Nick Blackman. The young striker followed Brown to Aberdeen from Motherwell and scored his first goal for his new club on Wednesday night. He has proved he can mix it with the best in the SPL in the early part of the season but the Dons will have to do without his services as he has previously played in the competition with Motherwell.

Lennon may look to shuffle his pack tomorrow as he has predominantly used the same players in recent weeks. He will have to replace James Forrest who misses out through injury, but there is no shortage of players ready to step into the wide position. Freddie Ljungberg has yet to start a match since joining earlier this month; McCourt will feel his goal on Wednesday should see him restored to the starting XI whilst Niall McGinn played the full 90 minutes last weekend. However, they may all be thwarted by the signing of Kris Commons from Derby. The Scottish internationalist signed on Thursday and will be eager to impress his new manager, colleagues and supporters.

Celtic have an enviable record over Aberdeen in recent seasons and they definitely have momentum going into tomorrow’s match. Neil Lennon won a treble as a player at the club and is only too well aware of the importance of this competition in the quest for all three trophies in his first season as manager. With such strength in depth going forward, and the confidence of players such as Stokes and his strike partner Gary Hooper, I’m predicting Celtic to win this win with a bit to spare.

My selection: Celtic (-1) to beat Aberdeen

Best odds available: 5/4 available with BlueSquare

Saturday 15^th January

English Premier League

Stoke City v Bolton Wanderers

Stoke and Bolton have had to deal with some unfair criticism during their Premier League tenure, but both have had a good first half to the season and will look to continue it at the Britannia tomorrow.

Tony Pulis’ side has been battered from pillar to post ever since they were promoted to England’s top flight for their style of play. Critics have attempted to downplay their incredible achievements by branding them too physical and even setting out to injure other opponents. Such claims are downright ridiculous and it’s a credit to Pulis who has gone about his business in a quiet and dignified manner. His side are currently enjoying their third consecutive season in the Premier League and they’re comfortably set in mid-table as we approach the second half of the campaign. Occupying 11^th spot in the table, Stoke are six points off the relegation zone but also the same number of points from the final European spot. A key difference in their performance this season as opposed to the previous two, as that they have accrued more points on the road. Normally so strong at home, the Potters have won three games away already, just one fewer than their whole total of last season and one more than their debut year.

Owen Coyle has enjoyed the exact opposite reaction from pundits than his opponent tomorrow. Journalists and colleagues alike have praised his brand of football and lauded him for turning Bolton into a football playing side. For years Wanderers were criticised for being too physical, like Stoke, and for playing route one football, like Stoke. Sam Allardyce’s sides always had a touch of quality about them with the likes of Jay Jay Okocha and Youri Djorkaeff pulling the strings so the criticism was very unfair. It was slightly more understandable when Gary Megson had the manager’s job as his sides tended to be far more reserved and disciplined with little flexibility. Coyle has transformed that viewpoint however and his midfield is much more dynamic with creativity in abundance. Having played one more game than tomorrows opponents, Bolton find themselves three points better off, despite having won just one in their last six league games.

Stoke have completed the permanent transfer of Jermaine Pennant from Real Zaragoza as they look to finish in the top half of the table for the first time since their return. The winger had been in excellent form during his loan spell and linked up really well with the likes of Tuncay, Ricardo Fuller and Kenwyne Jones. More than that, however, he provided a real balance with Matty Etherington on the left wing. Bolton also have a number of player who have been a real threat going forward this season. Aside from Kevin Davies, Johan Elmander, Stuart Holden and Lee Chung-Yong have been a menace for Premier League defences. Coyle will have to do without Lee, however, as he is on International duty with South Korea in the Asian cup.

Bolton are currently experiencing their leanest run of the season with just four points from a possible 18. Their away form has also been very poor of late as they have lost their last four on the road scoring just one goal. Stoke know that they can bully teams at home with their physicality and their ability to hem teams in with their style of play. Whether that’s possible against Bolton, a strong team themselves, remains to be seen. However with the form Bolton are in on the road, and the fact Stoke brushed aside Everton last time out, I fancy the home side to edge this.

My Selection: Stoke City to beat Bolton

Best odds available: 6/5 available with Boylesports

English Championship

Nottingham Forest v Portsmouth

Nottingham Forest put their incredible home record on the line again with Portsmouth the latest side attempting to leave the City Ground with all three points.

Billy Davies has overseen a fantastic run of 31 Championship games unbeaten at home which is the envy of all of his rivals. This league is notoriously difficult to get out of and one of the most important ingredients for doing is a strong home record. Davies, who has already been promoted with Forest’s arch rivals Derby, knows that there are obviously other things needed, but will be especially pleased with how difficult it is to come to the City Ground these days. Six wins and six draws already this term, Forest are beginning to put a run together which would see them challenge the teams above them in the hunt for promotion. One defeat in nine has saw them rise to seventh in the table just a couple of points behind Watford with a game in hand.

Portsmouth have had a pretty normal season compared to last year and Steve Cotterill has used this to his advantage by steering Pompey clear of any real danger of relegation. Currently in 18^th position and five points clear of the final relegation spot, 2011 will hopefully, for Pompey supporters, see a fresh start for the club after all their recent problems, on and off the park. Working with such a small squad is never easy so Cotterill and his players have to be commended for their performance thus far. A key player for them has been Liam Lawrence as the experienced midfielder has brought some much needed quality and composure to the South coast club. Having already chipped in with seven league goals, his involvement between now and the end of the season is vital if the club are to consolidate and move forward. He was a doubt earlier on in the week but should be fit to take his place on Saturday.

The visitors have failed to win a game in their last five in all competitions. They were also soundly beaten last time out in the FA Cup away to Brighton. Forest, who were victorious in the cup, have Marcus Tudgay available again whilst captain Paul McKenna will also return. Pompey will have to do without Dave Kitson and Greg Halford.  Both will be missed as they provide both experience and quality.

With such a threadbare squad, lessened even more with injuries, Portsmouth have it all to do, especially as they have to travel to a ground where no visiting side has left with three points for over a year. Forest are hitting form just at the right time and they should account for tomorrow’s opponents as they continue their quest for promotion to the Premier League.

My Selections: Nottingham Forest to beat Portsmouth

Best odds available: 8/11 available with Betfred

Scottish Premier League

Aberdeen v St Mirren

Amazingly just one points separate’s Aberdeen and St Mirren as we approach February but that’s the case as the two meet at Pittodrie tomorrow.

Craig Brown has had an immediate effect since becoming Aberdeen boss at the end of 2010. Before that, Aberdeen were enduring a horrific season under former manager Mark McGhee which culminated in seven straight defeats. Brown has came in from Motherwell, with his assistant Archie Knox, and instilled some much needed organisation and discipline within the squad. He has sought to strengthen the squad with the introduction of David McNamee at full back and Nick Blackman upfront. Blackman was on loan at Motherwell for the first half of the season, he impressed with 10 goals so it was natural Brown would be interested in him again at his new employers. The former Scotland manager has used his lengthy list of contacts to further bolster his squad with Fulham midfielder Robert Milsom joining until the end of the season as well.

Danny Lennon’s first season managing at this level has been one of inconsistency and frustration. St Mirren continue to struggle at the wrong end of the table, where they are just four points off bottom, and fail to turn good performances into points. Lennon doesn’t have the resources available to him that Brown will at Aberdeen, but even still, he will be annoyed with the amount of missed chances taken by his misfiring strikers. All of this was highlighted last week in the Scottish Cup as they were held to a goalless draw at home to second division Peterhead.

Aberdeen, on the other hand, ran riot against lower league opposition in the cup hitting East Fife for six. The man who got a hat-trick that day, Chris McGuire, is bang in form and enjoying a new lease of life under his new manager. St Mirren can take solace from the fact that they won last time out on the road against Inverness. They are actually unbeaten in the last three on the road which should provide some encouragement.

If this match took place a month ago then I believe it would have a very different complexion on it. Aberdeen were struggling whilst St Mirren were putting a run of form together. However it’s not and with Brown having such a positive impact up North, I feel the value is definitely with the home side tomorrow.

My Selection: Aberdeen to beat St Mirren

Best odds available: 10/11 available with William Hill

It is the same old question which raises it’s head every year around this time. No, not if Santa is real or not, but whether the weather will play its part in the seasons’ festivities by producing a White Christmas. The UK has had its fair share of snow during December, and with the chance of more on the way, will the UK be under a blanket of snow as the children run down the stairs in the morning and man of the house eagerly awaits the opening of the local hostelry to enjoy some Christmas cheer? Even though everyone dreams of a Dickensian White Christmas, it really has not happened all that often. Bah Humbug! There have been just seven recorded White Christmas’s in England since the turn of the 20th century, so the odds really are always against it happening. You only have to go back to last year to find the last White Christmas on record. Parts of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all had snow fall. Unfortunately, climate change is putting the dampeners on any potential rise in frequency of having a White Christmas, as the winters are supposedly getting milder (although that’s probably a bit hard to believe at the moment).

All it takes is just one flake of snow to fall and be recorded by a meteorological centre, of which there are many around the UK. Just one flake in that 24 hour period, and the record books will record a White Christmas. Of course, everyone wants more of an effort from Mother Nature than just a single snowflake, and you would expect the occurrence to happen further north of the country, than in the milder southern areas. The end of the December isn’t prime time for snow, as it more frequently shows up in January. Those old picture perfect Christmas Cards you see with snowy scenes, is largely based in the 18th and 19th centuries when the weather was a bit more brutal and harsh than it is nowadays. However, with everyone dreaming of a White Christmas in 2010, there are of course betting odds which need to be explored for the market.

White Christmas – Snow in UK and Ireland

Aberdeen: 9/4 at William Hill
Edinburgh: 9/4 at SkySports
Glasgow: 3/1 at William Hill
Belfast: 7/2 at SkyBet
Dublin: 7/2 at William Hill
Newcastle: 7/2 at Coral
Leeds/Bradford: 7/2 at Coral
Bristol, Cardiff, Manchester, London, Liverpool and others: 4/1 at William Hill

White Christmas in Belfast: No 2/9 or Yes 3/1 at BetFred

White Christmas in London: No 1/4 at BetFred, Yes 9/2 at Totesport

Saturday 27^th November

English Premier League

Everton v West Brom

There are some signs that West Brom are beginning to struggle after a good start so tomorrow’s match versus Everton at Goodison is probably not the match they would have been hoping for.

Everton are still currently enduring their season as opposed to enjoying it. There have been some bright sparks like the comeback against Manchester United at home and the derby win against Liverpool, but they’ve still to really kick on and add much needed consistency to their season. Their latest match away to Sunderland on Monday night ended in another draw meaning they have drawn exactly half of their 14 matches thus far this season. Monday’s game was endemic of their season to date as they played some really good stuff and even dominated at times, creating a plethora of chances, but they were undone by some poor defending and shocking decision making at crucial times.

West Brom had a flying start to the season after gaining promotion last season. Roberto Di Matteo’s side surprised many with their early season form, especially away from home. A win over Arsenal was further complimented by a draw with Man United at Old Trafford. They even found themselves in the top four at one point. Things since, however, have gone slightly pear shaped and they are currently on a run of five games without a win, losing four of them. They have slipped right down the table and sit in 16^th position, just two points off of the third and final relegation spot. That being said, three points are all that separates them from eight position so it is a very tight league this season.

 Everton are finally able to name a strong starting eleven and able deputies on the bench as well. They always seem to suffer from a lengthy injury list but things look to be brightening up on that horizon. They have key players such as Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill, Steven Pienaar and Louis Saha are all fit and well. The four of them linked up well on Monday night and looked dangerous for the whole of the game. West Brom will have to match their opponents in the middle of the park tomorrow as Everton have dominated better sides than Albion when on top at Goodison Park. A key player for the visitors will be Youssuf Mulumbu who has excelled since making the step up to the Premier League. He is strong, powerful and has excellent technical ability which has led to some very impressive performances already. His match up with Arteta could prove to be pivotal tomorrow afternoon.

Everton have struggled at home this season which is unusual for them as they are normally very hard to beat on their own patch. With just two wins at Goodison all season, they really need to pick up more points and that begins tomorrow. They were impressive on Monday night and looked a real handful going forward. With West Brom on a poor run at the moment, I believe the home side will come out on top in what promises to be an attractive football match.

My selection: Everton to beat West Brom

Best odds available: 8/13 available with PaddyPower

FA Cup

Bury v Peterborough

One of the more intriguing FA Cup fixtures of the weekend takes place at Gigg Lane as Bury of League Two entertain League One side Peterborough.

The home side are coming into this game on the back of a 5-0 thrashing of Lincoln away from home during the week. It was a win that followed on from another impressive showing at Burton and highlighted the form they are currently in, form which has catapulted them up the table where they currently sit third. Just two defeats in 13 league games finally see’s the Shakers living up their pre season billing as one of the promotion favourites after some good efforts in recent seasons. One man who has been at the centre of this recent success and key to their hopes this season is Ryan Lowe. The striker is already into double fixtures this time around and has been instrumental over the last couple of years in improving the hopes and expectations of the club. The veteran striker had went six games without netting before a double in midweek which should stand him in good stead for tomorrows big match.

Peterborough have been the model of inconsistency this season and are proving really hard to predict. They have mixed some sublime performances with some absolutely horrendous one’s in the league so will be hoping that the cup provides a welcome distraction this weekend. They have conceded at least once in their last 11 matches which just emphasises where their problems lie. They had to have a second bite at knocking out another League Two side, Stockport, in the last round as they were ran really close in the first game before finishing off the task at home ten days later. Gary Johnson knows the benefits that a good cup run can bring to a club as he showed when manager of Yeovil Town. Not a stranger to causing the odd upset in the cup, he will be hoping he’s not on the wrong end of one come Saturday night.

Bury have already knocked out a League Two side in the shape of Exeter City in the last round. A comfortable 2-0 success proved that they are a match for sides in a league above them and will give them the confidence needed to compete tomorrow afternoon in what is another step up.

The cold snap has hit the North of England in recent days and I am always wary of Southern sides making the long trek in such a climate. This match-up is exactly what the FA Cup early rounds is all about and although a league separate’s them, it wouldn’t be a massive upset if Bury did triumph. They are in excellent form at the moment and the Posh will not relish the surface at Gigg Lane tomorrow nor the sub-zero temperatures.

My selection: Bury to beat Peterborough

Best odds available: 7/4 available with Victor Chandler

Scottish Premier League

Kilmarnock v Aberdeen

Scottish football has been in limbo all week with a referee’s strike putting SPL games in danger but Aberdeen will travel to Ayrshire to take on Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.

Grade One officials, who are normally in charge of SPL games, have decided to strike this weekend because of what they deem to be unfair and excessive criticism of their performances. Some of their decisions have been nothing short of diabolical so it’s no surprise to see that they look to have made another blunder as the SFA have called their bluff and brought in foreign officials for the weekend.

To matters on the park now and Kilmarnock will be desperate to resume their winning form after losing an entertaining match with Rangers last Saturday. Before that defeat, Killie had won three and drawn one of their last four games. During the run they notched 10 goals and conceded just one. Even last week they ran Rangers close with 10 men, finally succumbing 3-2 in the end. Mixu Paatelainen has transformed what was an ailing squad, under Jim Jefferies and then Jimmy Calderwood, into a young, vibrant and exciting team. Star of the show has been Alexei Eremenko; the Finnish internationalist has been a revelation since coming on loan and is certainly a fans favourite at Rugby Park.

Aberdeen are in dire form and are plummeting down the table. Their only saving grace is the fact that Hamilton Accies are worse off than them at the moment. Mark McGhee has had to endure a horrific season to date. There was a 9-0 thrashing from Celtic which was incredibly embarrassing and one of five straight league defeats. McGhee is still sure he won’t resign nor be sacked, and quite frankly, it’s hard to believe he will as the club simply do not have the funds to pay him off and get someone else in. The fans are obviously growing disillusioned with the situation at the club but there is still support for the current man in charge due to the lack of finances being awarded to him.

Kilmarnock have impressed for much of the season and look like a team going places. As well as Eremenko, the Ayrshire side have another man in form in the shape of Connor Sammon. The big striker has taken on the mantle left by Kevin Kyle to be the focal point of the attack. He has scored 10 goals in 14 matches this season and is a big threat to a very dodgy Dons defence tomorrow. Aberdeen have not won away in the league since August and it’s hard to see how they can alter that tomorrow.

I have been impressed with the improvement of Kilmarnock and feel they will be too strong for a shocking Aberdeen side.

My selection: Kilmarnock to beat Aberdeen

Best odds available: 10/11 available with Stan James

Saturday 6^th November

English Premier League

Blackpool v Everton

Everton travel to Blackpool on Saturday, with both sides knowing that a win could lift them as high as 5^th position come tomorrow evening.

Blackpool survived a late scare against nine men West Brom on Monday as the visitors threatened an extraordinary comeback despite having two men sent off in the first half of the match. Ian Holloway will be delighted that his side managed their first home win of the campaign but will be disappointed in the manner of it as it should have been much more comfortable. Despite leading 2-0 against nine men with 10 minutes to go, West Brom missed a couple of chances in the last minute which would have earned them a point. Blackpool’s inability to keep possession was their greatest downfall and it will have served as a wake-up call for Holloway in their debut season in the Premier League. Four wins and 13 points from ten games is a decent return for such a young and inexperienced Premier League outfit. Their greatest test will be the next couple of months when the games come thick and fast and the injuries and suspensions start to pile up. It is, of course a cliché, however it’s also very relevant to such a small quality which relies a whole lot on several key players.

I previewed Everton’s last match at home to Stoke and tipped them up as being a sound bet to which they duly obliged. This week is a different sort of test as Blackpool will be more open and attacking in their approach as they are at home. Stoke soaked up a lot of pressure and threatened on the counter attack last weekend which rarely suits Everton’s game when playing at Goodison. Davie Moyes was able to call on Mikel Arteta against Stoke and it’s difficult not to overplay how important the Spaniard is to the Toffee’s. His range of passing aligned with his set piece delivery and ability to shoot from long range make him pivotal to the way Everton play. His presence in the side also frees up Tim Cahill to play ahead of him and behind the lone striker. It’s a system which works as it’s effective and the depth in their attacks also means it’s hard for teams to defend against.

Blackpool will look to Charlie Adam once again as the man to create and dictate the play on Saturday. The Scot has been linked with Everton, as well as Liverpool, of late due to his high quality of play this season. His penalty on Monday makes him the joint top scorer for the club emphasising his importance even more. For Blackpool to survive in the league this season, it’s vital that he is fit and available for the majority of their games.

Games at Bloomfield Road tend to be open and have plenty of goals and I expect this one to follow suit. Blackpool do not boast a resolute defence and go for the jugular when at home. Unfortunately for them, however, that style plays right into Everton’s hands. They attack with pace and precision on the break. I think it’s certainly a match up which promises goals but I also think it’s the sort of game which Everton have come accustomed to winning in recent years with their experience and quality being the key factors.

Another bet I see value in is Tim Cahill to score tomorrow. He has been unlucky not to add to his four goals already accumulated in recent weeks and his late runs into the box may prove fatal for the home side tomorrow.

My selections: Everton to beat Blackpool at a best priced 5/6 available with William Hill

                             Over 2.5 goals at best priced 17/20 available with Bet365

                             Tim Cahill to score anytime at a best priced 11/5 available with Stan James

Scottish Premier League

Celtic v Aberdeen

Celtic benefited from Rangers slip up at home to Inverness last weekend and a win tomorrow afternoon at home to Aberdeen would see them return to the top of the SPL.

Neil Lennon suffered his first dropped points as Celtic manager a fortnight ago when his side lost to arch rivals Rangers at Celtic Park. It was a poor performance from the Hoops and one which may have deflated some players who had only known success in the SPL since coming to the club. They have, however, followed up with two successive wins – both against St Johnstone. Last week’s win over the Perth Saints in the league was as comfortable and as routine as they come. Lennon will have been very pleased with his side’s reaction to the derby defeat. He will also be satisfied that they have gotten on with their business in the midst of a refereeing scandal which has blighted Scottish football in recent weeks. Lennon knows he has to put all the controversy behind him as they head into a crucial part of the season which sees Celtic play 5 games in the next 3 weeks. It’s a period of the season which may make or break their season heading into the festive fixtures

Mark McGhee is into his second season in charge of the club he once starred for as a player. His time as manager has been nowhere near as successful however, and he is under real pressure to bring consistency and results. Six defeats in 10 games has been a dreadful start but in all honesty, it’s not a surprise in the least. For years the Dons fans have had to suffer as the club have underperformed and failed to live up to their expectations. A key reason of this has been their inability to hold on to their top players in recent seasons. The likes of Barry Nicholson, Lee Miller and Scott Severin all left for the Championship for more money as Aberdeen were unable to compete with clubs down south, financially. McGhee has sought to bring through a number of youngsters as well as trying to wheel and deal in the transfer market. As yet, it’s been a relatively unsuccessful method but he is adamant that he will get it correct and has no plans to leave the job until he does get it right.

Neil Lennon will be able to recall Gary Hooper and Shaun Maloney who both missed the 3-0 win over St Johnstone. Both are key players and their inclusion will only strengthen the chances of a home win tomorrow.

Celtic have a fantastic record against Aberdeen over the last decade. Celtic have won 30 of the last 40 matches between the two with the Dons last win in Glasgow coming over 5 years ago. I see very little in the way of changing this record tomorrow but you won’t get rich backing the 2/9 on offer for a Celtic win. I’ve looked elsewhere for a bit of value.

My selections: Celtic (-1) to beat Aberdeen at a best priced 8/11 available with Betfred

                             Over 3.5 goals at a best priced 11/8 available with Victor Chandler

Saturday 2^nd October

English Premier League

Sunderland v Manchester United

Steve Bruce once again comes up against his old boss as his Sunderland side welcome Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United to the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland go into their third match in a row against one of England’s supposed top four. They go into it in good heart after avoiding defeat against both Arsenal and Liverpool in recent weeks. Draws have very much been the story of the season for the North East side thus far with four of their opening half dozen games ending in stalemate. Their only defeat came on the road against West Brom back in August; it’s been an encouraging, if not spectacular, start to Bruce’s second season in charge. The manager will know it could have been a lot better though as at least two of those draws probably should have been victories. Sunderland conceded two second half goals on the opening day of the season when comfortably leading Birmingham, whilst last week’s visit to Anfield included a farcical goal for the home side before a late leveller from Liverpool after Sunderland dominated much of the game and held a 2-1 lead for a long time.

Man United have also endured a frustrating start to the season with draws which could have been wins as well as enduring several injuries to key personnel. Draws with Everton, Fulham and Bolton have been costly in the sense that they trail Chelsea by three points despite the leaders having lost a match whilst United remain unbeaten. Ferguson has also had to suffer injuries to Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs of late, all three of whom will miss the trip to Wearside on Saturday. The manager, and his players, will be boosted by their result in the Champions League after they brought home an impressive 1-0 victory from Valencia thanks to Javier Hernandez’s first competitive goal for his new club. What will be just as pleasing for Ferguson would be the return of Rio Ferdinand and as a direct result of this; the more solid his side looked.

Sunderland have proven very difficult to beat at the Stadium of Light under Steve Bruce. They lost just three games at home last season and remain undefeated so far this term. A lot of their good form, and points, is down to Darren Bent. The England striker scored 24 times in 2009/10 and he has already notched five goals this season. Bruce will hope he can link up with new signing Asamoah Gyan who is already off the mark after scoring against Wigan in September. Man United will probably line up pretty similar to the way they set out on Wednesday evening, possibly with the exception being a start for Hernandez up alongside Dietmar Berbatov.

Sunderland have already accounted for the other half of Manchester in a 1-0 victory but will be all to well aware of Saturday’s visitors record when the two meet in the North East. United have won on their last four visits whilst their last defeat was in March 1997. With that record and off the back of an excellent European victory, I’m siding with the away side to do the business and collect all three points.

My selection: Manchester United to beat Sunderland

Best price available: 4/5 available with Victor Chandler.

Scottish Premier League

Inverness Caley Thistle v Aberdeen

A game often described as a local derby despite their being nearly 100 miles separating Inverness and Aberdeen; nevertheless, the two sides face each other on Saturday.

Terry Butcher’s side are still waiting on their first points at their own Stadium since their return to the SPL. Defeats to Hearts, Hamilton and Celtic have meant that ICT have accumulated their seven points on the road. Not a bad trait but they will be desperate to sort out their home form sooner rather than later. A case could be made for adopting a slightly more attacking style for home games as they look very much like a side hoping to hit on the break. This is all well and good on the road when the opposition has more of the ball and they come out a bit more leaving space in behind. However, more and more now, visiting teams are being cautious and as a result, it’s very much up to the home side to break down their opponents, Caley, thus far, have failed to do this and there is a question over the amount of creativity in the side.

Aberdeen had a flying start to the season with seven points from their first three games. They soon found themselves top of the league but that form has dwindled and they are without a win in their last three. They have lost two of those matches against Dundee United and most recently Rangers, but have performed well in spells. A terrible first half where they lost three goals meant they had no chance at Tannadice despite playing relatively well in the second 45, whilst a flying start last week at home to Rangers meant they were 2-0 up in the first half hour. That level of performance never remained and they lost three goals without reply from there on in.

Despite not being much of a local derby, these games are always fiercely competitive. Both sides have shared players over the years as well as managers so there is a history to the fixture and it’s always hard fought and intriguing. Aberdeen have a pretty decent record when travelling to Inverness, so much so that in eight visits, they have yet to taste defeat whilst taking home maximum points six times. It’s an amazing statistic.

Aberdeen showed enough last week that they can cause problems and have a bit of quality going forward. I don’t know how different the home side can play, if they have the flexibility or strength in depth to alter things drastically. With that in mind, and with that fantastic record at the stadium, I believe Aberdeen are good value to record another three points at a happy hunting ground.

My selection: Aberdeen to beat Inverness

Best odds available: 2/1 available with Coral

Saturday 5^th December

English Premier League

Manchester City v Chelsea

Money meets even more money as Mark Hughes’ City look to end their run of 7 successive league draws when they take on all conquering Chelsea who sit 5 points clear at the top of the table.

Man City have been something of an enigma all season long. They have flattered to deceive on occasions but at other times have been scintillating and shown glimpses of a side capable of matching the best. They’ve brushed Arsenal aside twice already this term, once in the league and once in the cup, whilst they have put in credible performances away to Liverpool and city rivals United but have come away with just one point from those two games. Their defeat in the derby game is, to date, their only loss in the league thus far which proves them as being one of the toughest nuts to crack in the EPL this season. They have, however, been let down with draws against the likes of Burnley, Fulham and Hull at home along with poor performance on the road at places such as Birmingham and Wigan. Even if they had won 3 of those games they would have been in a much healthier position than their current standing of 7^th, 3 points off 4^th placed Arsenal.

Chelsea have been very impressive all season. Not only have they been impressive, they’ve been extremely consistent for much of it as well. Apart from 2 slip up’s away to Wigan and Aston Villa, they have a flawless record with 12 wins from 14 matches. The ease of some of their wins has also caught the eye. Since losing 2-1 to Villa in October, they have won 6 in a row in the league, scored 17 and conceded 0. It is breathtaking form and it’s even more impressive when you take into account the fact that they have played Arsenal and Manchester United in that run of fixtures. These are two sides who lie 2^nd and 4^th in the league at this point in time so it’s safe to say that Carlo Ancelotti’s charges are sitting top because they are purely the best team in the country currently. Last week’s London derby at the Emirates was so comfortably for the away side it was scary. They were under very little pressure throughout the game but were quite willing to allow Arsenal to have the ball for much of the match, confident in their defensive ability to withstand the quick passing as they kept them 30 yards from goal. It was the footballing equivalent of keeping a midget at arm’s length if we’re being honest. Going forward they were powerful, clinical and precise. Didier Drogba and Nicholas Anelka have been excellent all season and they caused the Gunners all sorts of problems.

City proved earlier in the season that they can compete with the top four sides. They have not been embarrassed by any of Arsenal, Man United or Liverpool, far from it. The thing they have to do now is not only do they have to compete; they have to better them on a regular basis. They won’t get a much stiffer task than that of Chelsea in their current form. Emmanuel Adebayor will be their focal point in attack with Carlos Tevez almost certain to partner him after his goal in midweek. It will be interesting to see who operates on the left. Will Craig Bellamy, who turned in a man of the match performance in that game, be preferred to the now fit again Robinho? It’s difficult to say, Bellamy will certainly be more efficient in terms of the shape of the team and tracking back, but he doesn’t have the same ability as the little Brazilian.

Chelsea will line up very similar to that of last Sunday’s team with Drogba and Anelka supported by Joe Cole upfront. Their midfield trio of Lampard, Essien and the returning Michael Ballack is so strong it’s difficult to imagine City’s midfield dominating them.

People will tell you that the value pick is to go with City as they have lost just once all season and will be on a high after Wednesday’s win over Arsenal. However, there’s not many, if any, teams in World football at the moment who would get the better of Chelsea on form so I don’t see any other result other than an away win to make it 5 wins in a row for Chelsea at Eastlands.

My selection: Chelsea to beat Manchester City

Best odds available: 10/11 available with several bookmakers including Betfred

English League 1

Swindon Town v Leyton Orient

Just a slightly less affluent fixture as we delve back into reality football when Danny Wilson’s inform Swindon entertain poor travellers Leyton Orient at the County ground.

Swindon have struck 3 wins together in the league on the bounce after a run of poor form which as seen them climb to 10^th and just 3 points off of the last play-off spot in a tightly congested league. They have had excellent wins over Tranmere Rovers and Carlisle away as well as a very decent win over highflying Huddersfield at home last time out in the league. They have lost just once at home and just the 3 in total so it’s no surprise that they have the promotion in their sights. They are arguably strongest in the midfield where they have a plethora of good players at this level. Simon Ferry is on loan from Celtic and has been a stand-out for Wilson’s men this season alongside Jonathan Douglas who joined from Leeds in the summer. These two make the side tick in the middle of the park so it’s important Douglas will be fit to take his place in the side.

Orient are sitting relatively safe with a 5 point cushion over 21^st placed Brighton but know they will have to start to improve their away form to make sure of their survival later in the season. Their home form is good with 7 points from a possible 9 most recent but they have failed to pick up a point away from home in the league since the beginning of October. In total, they have lost 6 on the road this season with their two successes coming against Wycombe and Bristol Rovers as well as a point against Yeovil. They have lost, amongst others, at Leeds, Huddersfield and Norwich.

Although Swindon are not quite at the level of the three teams mentioned above, they are still good and I think they’ll be too classy in the midfield for an Orient side who haven’t even managed a goal in their last 3 away reverses.

My selection: Swindon to beat Leyton Orient

Best price available: 4/5 available with several bookmakers including Coral

Scottish Premier League

Celtic v Aberdeen

Third and final preview takes us North to Scotland as league leaders Celtic will be looking to stay top as they take on a buoyant Dons side who defeated the other team from Glasgow last weekend when they were victorious against Rangers at Pittodrie.

Celtic have been strong at home this season with 4 wins and 2 draws from their 6 matches. They have been inconsistent away from home but still remain hard to get the better of when they are infront of their home fans. In the last week they have beaten St Mirren 3-1 and won 2-0 in Europe against Tel Aviv, both at Parkhead. In both those games, the winning margin could have been much greater with missed chances aplenty. It is likely Tony Mowbray will line up with Scott McDonald and Giorgios Samaras in attack for the 3^rd successive match with big money signing Marc Antoine Fortune once again on the bench. It’s midfield where Celtic create most of their opportunities with Aiden McGeady in fine form of late and the midfield partnership of Landry N’Guemo and Marc Crosas beginning to show signs of blossoming.

Aberdeen have been mean on the road and have the 2^nd best away defensive record. Mark McGhee has attempted to build from the back and has worked to an extent. They will be on a high following their 1-0 win over Rangers last weekend but will have to do without their captain Mark Kerr for Saturday’s visit as he was sent off in that game. They have already kept two clean sheets against Rangers this season but that does not really tell the story. Rangers missed chance after chance in both games and let Aberdeen off the hook on so many occasions.

I don’t envisage this being too much of a test for Celtic other than their own poor finishing. Aberdeen worked so hard last week, especially when down to 10 men and they’ll find it hard to reach those same levels again so soon after, especially away from home. Celtic will create chances, there is nothing surer so providing their strikers are in form, and I think they’re due a big home win, I can see them winning starting minus a goal.

My selection: Celtic (-1) to beat Aberdeen

Best odds available: 11/10 available with Skybet

Good luck and happy punting

Hi folks. I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait for the start of the new season. It’s been a long, long summer without top flight football and this season promises to be interesting. I hope my previews over the coming months prove insightful, helpful but most of all, profitable.

Saturday 15^th August

Scottish Premier League

Aberdeen v Celtic

Celtic begin their quest to regain the SPL with a visit to Pittodrie to take on Aberdeen. Both clubs have new managers this season so the game promises to be an intriguing one.

Celtic missed out on their 4^th successive league title on the final day of last season, as a result, then manager, Gordon Strachan, resigned paving the way for current incumbent Tony Mowbray to take the reigns. His first task as manager was to get rid of Paul Hartley, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Shunsuke Nakamura (amongst others). Thus far, he has spent shrewdly by acquiring Marco Antoine Fortune, Landry N’Guemo and Danny Fox.

Aberdeen also find themselves with a new manager in the shape of former Motherwell gaffer, Mark McGhee. McGhee, a former player at the club, has had to contend with the departure of several key players, most notably captain Scott Severin and former Celtic player, Jamie Smith. He has recently brought in Jerel Ifil from Swindon Town and hope’s to land a Canadian striker in time for tomorrow’s match.

Both clubs have already played competitive matches this season, despite this being the opening weekend of the league campaign. Aberdeen suffered an embarrassing 8-1 aggregate defeat to Czech Republic side, Sigma, whilst Celtic overcame a first leg reverse against Dynamo Moscow at home, with an excellent display in the Russian capital to advance 2-1 on aggregate. There may have been mitigating circumstances with regards to Aberdeen’s capitulation, such as the lack of defensive cover due to injuries and the team getting to grips with McGhee’s preferred 4-3-3 formation.

Celtic look very impressive in Russia, especially new signings N’Guemo and Fox. Both have added something which has been missing for some time at Celtic, presence in the middle of the park and a proper left back able to get forward in support. Tony Mowbray has already had a major effect on the confidence of the squad with the likes of Donati and Samaras having impressive contributions in the European ties and pre-season matches. Mowbray has also instilled a free flowing and impressive passing game which has been missing at the club for years. Their ability to keep the ball and get forward with a purpose was the biggest factor in Celtic’s Russian success.

Mark McGhee was a leading contender for the Celtic manager’s job according to Scotland’s media. He will want to prove a point of sorts to the Celtic board that they ultimately chose wrong by laying down a marker tomorrow. He’ll have influential defender Zander Diamond available after injury and will hope his presence will shore up the porous defence. Mowbray will have to decide whether or not to give Scotland midfielder Scott Brown a start in place of Donati tomorrow, but it is likely that he will give the starting XI in Moscow another chance to impress.

Pittodrie is never an easy place to get a result, let alone on the first day of the season. However, with confidence high, genuine competition for places and impressive performances thus far, Celtic will be hard to stop tomorrow. Aiden McGeady, Shaun Maloney, Scott McDonald and Fortune should have too much firepower for the Aberdeen defence and I fully expect Tony Mowbray to comfortably collect his first 3 SPL points as Celtic manager.

My selection: Celtic to beat Aberdeen

Best price available: 4/6 with several bookmakers, including Coral

English League 1

Wycombe v Leeds United

Wycombe entertain Leeds in their first home match of the 2009/2010 season, looking for their first points of the new season after an opening away day defeat.

Wycombe gained automatic promotion last season into the 3^rd tier of English league football. Manager Peter Taylor is very experienced and has a vast knowledge of lower league football so will know what to expect this season. However, can the same be said for the majority of their squad? Doubtful! Apart from a few older players in Wanderers’ squad, most of them have not played at this level. This has been highlighted by losing 7 goals in two matches thus far. The club’s 3-2 defeat to Charlton was followed by a 4-0 home thrashing by Peterborough in the Carling cup.

Leeds narrowly missed out on last year’s League 1 play-off final but once again find themselves as favourites for promotion. Simon Grayson has previously won promotion from this division with Blackpool and will be hoping to do likewise in his first full season as boss of the Elland road club. He will have to do so without the services of talismanic teenager, Fabian Delph who was sold to Aston Villa earlier this month, ending months of speculation. One man who is still at the club is Jermaine Beckford. Last season’s top goalscorer is still on the transfer list having not signed a new contract in the summer but found himself on the scoresheet last weekend in United’s 2-1 victory over newly promoted Exeter with a double.

Leeds know the importance of getting points on the board early doors and will be looking to take advantage of Wycombe’s leaky defence. Beckford along with striker partner, Lucciano Becchio will be a handful for the best defenses in this league so Wycombe’s new signing, Michael Duberry, will have to be at his best if his side are to get anything out of the game.

Interestingly enough, this will be the first ever meeting between the two clubs in a competitive match and it is sure to be a feisty and hard fought match. With Leeds’ experience in this division coupled with their excellent attackers, I think they will nick this one but expect it to be close.

My selection: Leeds United to beat Wycombe

Best price available: EVS with several bookmakers including Boylesports

Good Luck and Happy punting