Championship

Sunday 29th May 2011

English League 1 Play-Off Final

Huddersfield v Peterborough

My Selection: Over 2.5 goals

Best odds available: 3/4 available with Bet365

Huddersfield will be aiming to return to the second tier of English football for the first time since 2001 but they must get the better of a Peterborough side who have hit top gear since Darren Ferguson returned as manager.

Huddersfield have been a model of consistency this season which is emphasised by the fact they haven’t defeated since the back end of 2010, a run of 27 games. It’s a tremendous run of form which was only bettered by Southampton’s closing matches which was eventually good enough to pip the Yorkshire club to the second automatic promotion spot. Lee Clark has been able to rally his troops for another charge at the Championship door as they overcame stern opposition in the shape of Bournemouth in the semi-finals, on penalties. It was a typical play-off game which included many emotions for fans, players and management alike. What it did prove is that Huddersfield look to be more resolute this season than in the past, which they have been criticised for.

Peterborough were the top scorers in England this season amassing an amazing 106 goals in the league alone. Entertainment has been a constant which is more than can be said for their form as they have been up and down like a yo-yo at times. Having sacked Gary Johnson in early January, the club looked to a former boss in the shape of Darren Ferugson who had previously left under a cloud for pastures new. The prodigal son has turned things around and steered the Posh to the Play-Off final to return to the Championship at the first time of asking. They have had to do it the hard way however as the club have sold one of their three prized assests in the shape of Aaron McLean. Having got the better of MK Dons over two legs in their own semi, the Posh head into tomorrow’s match knowing that they have to do something that teams have failed to do 27 times – defeat Huddersfield.

As you would expect over the course of a long season, there is not much to split these two teams. Huddersfield managed to accumulate four more points whilst the two games the sides contested during the regular season resulted in a draw and a win for Huddersfield – both were extremely tight despite being very entertaining.

One thing that can normally be assured when these two sides meet is goals. In the last six games there have been 27 goals so it despite being a desperately hard match to call, it does bode well for plenty of chances and hopefully goals.

The final will take place at Old Trafford as Wembley is being used and prepared for tonights Champions League final. Being in the North-West could just swing it in favour of Huddersfield who should have the majority of the support behind them.

The bookies find it just as hard to split the two sides so rather than attempt that, I’m sticking with goals in this game.

Monday 30th May 2011

Swansea v Reading

My Selection: Swansea to beat Reading

Best odds available: 17/10 avaialable with William Hill

Bank Holiday Monday is the traditional day when two Championship sides clash with the ultimate prize being a place in England’s top flight, this year see’s Reading aiming for a return against a Swansea side who have yet to taste the Premier League.

Brendan Rodgers will be in a strange position on Monday as he will lead out his Swansea side knowing that it could very well have been the opposition he was walking out with. Rodgers was sacked as Reading manager despite not being given an appropriate amount of time. He has done exceptionally well since becoming Swans manager, surpassing all expectation and leading his players to within one game of the promised land. Not only have the Welsh club been effective and successful this season, they have achieved it by playing excellent, attacking football. Rodgers’ philosophy has never wavered and he has remained loyal to it. Central to that style of play has been Darren Pratley who illustrated his importance by scoring the clinching goal in the semi-final against Nottingham Forest. Pratley has been linked with a move away all season but it’s not affected his performances as he has notched 10 goals from midfield in the league alone.

There is always one side who go on a run of form at the tail end of the season to secure a play-off spot and this year it’s Reading’s turn. The Royals have lost just one from their last 18 league games, a tremendous run by anyone’s standards. Boss Brian McDermott has been an unsung hero having gone about his business very quietly with little fuss. He has proven he is capable of handling the big occasion as well as his side’s FA Cup exploits have shown with victories against Everton and Liverpool in recent seasons. Many will be cursing Reading as their comprehensive defeat of Cardiff in the semi-final deprived the public of a Welsh Derby at Wembley. It would have been unique but it was plain to see that Cardiff had run their race long before the second leg of the return leg – Reading were streets ahead.

No matter what happens at Wembley on Monday one thing looks certain – Shane Long will be playing in next season’s Premier League. The striker has attracted interest from numerous top flight clubs after a prolific season in the Championship. If Reading are not successful then it’s likely he’ll head for pastures new.

The size of the Wembley pitch may well be a factor on Monday as both sides play the game rather differently. Reading have been very successful at hitting on the break with the pace of Long upfront whilst Swansea like to keep the ball and probe away looking for openings. If Swansea to get into a rythm they will be hard to peg back as their technique is exceptional.

I expect a fantastic match with so many gifted players in form. I am siding with the Welsh side as they have impressed me throughout this season with their attitude and desire as well as their excellent performances.

Saturday 12^th February

English Premier League

Manchester United v Manchester City

The second Manchester derby of the season takes place on Saturday at Old Trafford with both sides occupying top four positions.

Manchester United suffered their first defeat in the league this season when they lost away to Wolves last weekend. It was a surprise to everyone, not least because their opponents were actually bottom of the table when they met, but also because it looked as though United were beginning to hit top form after impressive wins over Aston Villa and Blackpool which came as part of a 10 wins in 12 games in all competitions. Sir Alex Ferguson will have harboured hopes of going the full season unbeaten and emulating the great ‘Untouchables’ side of Arsenal, but he’s only too well aware that the main goal of this season was to regain the title from Chelsea and they are still well on course to do this with a four point lead over second placed Arsenal. Saturday’s match should hold little fear for United as although they may have lost their unbeaten record for the season, they still remain undefeated at Old Trafford with an imperious record of 12 wins and one draw from their 13 matches played. It really is a daunting prospect for any visiting side.

Man City have flattered to deceive at times this season and been awful to watch on others which has brought with it much deserved criticism. Just when you think they are going to put a run of results together and really challenge for the title, they stumble. Roberto Mancini has maintained all along that their am for this season was to finish in the Champions League places and compete in Europe’s Premier club competition the following year – and then progress to title challengers. Whether that’s what he’s really believed or it’s just what he lets on to the public is another matter altogether. Any manager who has a squad which cost the money his did, must have some sort of title aspiration. I tend to think that he has targeted the Championship but has simply come up a little short. Currently six points off United, having played a game more, they’re not out of it completely, but they are certainly up against it and have to avoid defeat on Saturday at their arch rivals stomping ground.

The cornerstone of United’s success this season has been the defence, especially the central partnership of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand. The duo have been formidable for the league leaders and they look set to take their places again at 12.45 on Saturday afternoon. They will have to be on their game however as they come up against an old foe in former United player Carlos Tevez. The City captain has enjoyed a tremendous season to date and is easily his club’s most important player. With 18 league goals to his name already, he will be at the centre of anything positive coming from the away side.

Derbies are notoriously difficult to predict as the form book really does go out the window with so much at stake. City have tended to take a more defensive approach when up against the bigger clubs this term. Having already drawn 0-0 with both United at home and Arsenal away, the smart money is probably on a similar approach this weekend. Whether they do or not is immaterial in my view. United may have had a slip up last Saturday on their travels but their home form has been excellent of late and Wayne Rooney is beginning to hit top form. Home win.

My Selection: Manchester United to beat Manchester City

Best odds available: 4/5 available with Coral

English Championship

Hull City v Preston North End

Phil Brown returns to the KC Stadium to take on Hull City, a club he got promoted to the Premier League, with his new side Preston North End – who could be playing in League One next season.

Hull City are finally beginning to put a run of results together after the upheaval of relegation last season. A whole load of players were moved on and slowly but surely, Nigel Pearson is beginning to reconstruct a squad of players which he believes can restore the good times to Humberside. Currently slap bang in mid-table, the Tigers are just seven points off of a play-off position despite a pretty ordinary start to the season. However a run of just one defeat from 14 league games had provided them with a decent opportunity to challenge for promotion, as competitive as it is. One man who has really brought a feel good factor to the club is Matty Fryatt. The striker followed Pearson from Leicester to Hull in the January transfer window and has brought with him some much needed goals. He has netted six goals in as many matches, including a hat-trick in Hull’s last match, a 5-1 win over Scunthorpe.

Preston are in deep trouble as they currently sit rooted to the foot of the table and 10 points off safety. Having sacked Darren Ferguson earlier in the season, they entrusted Phil Brown with the task of saving their Championship status. Five games on since taking charge of the club, Brown is still searching for his first win and Preston are still looking like a side very much destined for the drop. Brown has managed a couple of decent draws at home to Leicester and away to Middlesbrough but confidence is at a real low. Last weekend’s 4-0 home defeat to Bristol City was just another in a long line of losses, but it was also the first real hammering of Brown’s reign and very much removed any of the feel good factor which his arrival would have brought. Their last win was on the 11^th of December, two months ago now. The longer it goes without another, the harder it is to find one.

Hull have managed to strengthen during January with Aaron McLean also joining Fryatt at the club. It has really improved City’s attacking options. At the other end of the park the loan signing of Brad Guzan has meant they can rely on a quality keeper which makes a world of difference for everyone in the side, especially the defenders. Preston haven’t been so lucky. Whilst Hull have benefited from being taken over, North End have not had that luxury. They have, however, managed to prise Ian Ashbee from tomorrow’s opponents as he once again links up with Phil Brown.

Form may not always work out in the Championship but the stats on this game all point towards a home win. Preston have not won away from home since September, a run of eight games. I can’t see them getting anything tomorrow with Hull City’s strikers on such good form.

My Selection: Hull City to beat Preston North End

Best odds available: 4/6 available with Betfred

English League One

Huddersfield v Oldham

The two form sides in League One meet tomorrow as Huddersfield play host to Oldham as the two continue their quest for promotion.

Lee Clark’s side missed out in the play-off semi finals last season and were desperate to rectify their failure by going straight up this time around. Just four points off top, they stand an excellent chance of gaining automatic promotion. Like every successful team their home form is pretty sound and they are difficult to beat on their own ground. This has been the case for a while at Huddersfield; a bigger problem was their lack of points on the road. They won only nine games away from home last season, with six wins to their credit already, they should comfortably surpass that this season. Their recent form overall has been excellent as they are undefeated in eight League One games, winning six of them.

Oldham have not been involved in the promotion picture for a long time so it’s testament to the job currently being done by Paul Dickov. Even though it’s his first job in management, the former Scottish Internationalist striker has taken to it like a duck to water. His side are currently in the final play-off position, five points off tomorrow’s opponents. Like Huddersfield, the Latics are also on a very good run of form with just one defeat in seven matches. In such a competitive and tight division, that is certainly no mean feat. Oldham’s away form has been pretty balance with four wins, give draws and four defeats, but they are certainly no pushovers on the road as they have already taken points off of Charlton, Sheffield Wednesday and Rochdale.

Tomorrow’s match, as well as being a derby of sorts, is a real yardstick to how far Oldham have come in recent months. Huddersfield have been a strong side in League One for a few years now so Dickov will be aware of the test that awaits his side. I just feel that this game may just be edged by the home side who have been scoring goals for fun of late with nine goals in their last three games. I can see it being entertaining but with Huddersfield coming out on top.

My Selection: Huddersfield to beat Oldham

Best odds available: 5/6 available with Totesport

Saturday 5^th February

English Premier League

Newcastle United v Arsenal

Newcastle United face Arsenal in their first home match since the close of the transfer window and sale of Andy Carroll to Liverpool.

Whichever story you believe regarding the sale of Andy Carroll for an astonishing £35m to Liverpool, there is one thing that is undeniable, Newcastle have lost their top scorer and best player without replacing him. With this being the case, they must face up to the challenge of remaining in the Premier League despite looking pretty comfortable for much of the season. Wednesday’s match away to Fulham highlighted the lack of quality they now have, especially upfront. They rarely threatened the home side and although they lost by a solitary goal, there was little to worry Fulham; the same cannot be said for Alan Pardew however. The current Newcastle manager was a pretty unpopular choice when replacing Chris Houghton, now with everything else that has gone on, you have to wonder what the reaction of the fans will be if the Toon Army have a poor run of results.

Arsenal had to come from behind to beat Everton during the week and sustain their title charge. All Arsene Wenger’s men can do is continue to win and hope that Manchester United drop points. Having won their last six in all competitions, the Gunners are throwing together a good run of form at just the right time. It’s no coincidence that their results have become more consistent with the presence of their captain, Cesc Fabregas. The little Spaniard is the heartbeat of the Arsenal team and makes them tick. His passing ability, retention of the ball and late surges into the box are key to how the whole team performs as he provides much more options and a fluency that benefits other players in the side, especially Robin Van Persie.  One big difference to this season compared to recent ones, is Arsenal’s resiliency, especially away from home. Only United and Chelsea have defeated the Gunners on their travels which is a stark contrast to previous years where their vulnerability has come to the fore at grounds such as the Reebok, Ewood Park and the Britannia.

Shola Ameobi went off early on in the match at Craven Cottage on Wednesday and his absence has reduced, even further, the options available for Pardew up top. Kevin Nolan may be asked to play in a more advanced role which he is perfectly able to do so and has done so in great effect already this season. Stephen Ireland, signed on loan from Aston Villa, will again miss out due to injury but one bit of good news for Pardew is the return of Cheik Tiote who is a combative midfielder that will relish the chance of shackling the visitor’s midfield.

One player missing from Arsenal is Samir Nasri who will miss the next fortnight or so. Due to the goals he has scored this season and the chances he creates for others, it will be interesting to see how they get on without him. Andrei Arshavin will come into the side and will be hoping that his goal against Everton on Tuesday will be the catalyst to kick-start his season as it’s been a little disappointing.  

Arsenal have won on their last two visits to St James’ and everything looks stacked in their favour to complete the hat-trick. With the gap at five points between them and Man United at the top, another win is essential and it’s one I’m confident they’ll get.

My Selection: Arsenal to beat Newcastle United

Best odds available: 7/10 available with PaddyPower

English Championship

Millwall v Doncaster Rovers

Millwall will be desperate for all three points against Doncaster at the New Den tomorrow as they pursue a playoff spot.

Kenny Jackett must be well pleased with how his side have adapted to life in the Championship after winning promotion last season. Despite a sticky spell towards the end of last year, the Lions are just four points off sixth position. It’s testament to the hard work and team spirit that Jackett has instilled in the club as the turnover of players from last season to this has been minimal. Their home form is especially strong, as you come to expect from Millwall, with eight win and three draws from their 14 matches at the New Den. They have won their last five home matches in the league with an aggregate score of 12-1. It’s excellent form and highlights just how hard it is to leave the daunting stadium with anything. Their top scorer Steve Morison has been finding the net with regularity this season and goes into tomorrow’s match with 11 league goals including two in his last four but he will be missing on Saturday which could prove crucial to the outcome of the match.

Doncaster have slipped a little of late after an excellent start to the season. Tuesday’s victory over Burnley was their first win in five after suffering four straight defeats in all competitions. It’s meant that any small chance they had for challenging for a playoff spot have all but disappeared. They should have enough to avoid being drawn into the relegation scrap as they are currently 10 points clear. Another concern for their manager, Sean O’Driscoll, is their lack of points on the road. With only 12 points from a possible 39, and without a win in their last five on the road, tomorrow’s trip to the New Den is probably not what they would have wanted. Billy Sharp has 12 goals already this season and has a better strike record than one in two. He is a real goal threat and is pivotal to the success of Rovers.

These sides met at the Keepmoat Stadium with Donny coming out on top in a 2-1 victory. If they are to repeat that victory then they need to be able to stand up to the physical nature of Millwall’s style and the intimidating atmosphere of the New Den. They are perfectly capable of doing so but I just feel with the form the home side are currently in I just fancy them to edge it as they seem to have more motivation to do so.

My Selection: Millwall to beat Doncaster Rovers

Best odds available: 10/11 available with Victor Chandler

***There will be another preview for Sunday***

Saturday 22^nd January

English Premier League

Arsenal v Wigan

Arsenal and Wigan met at the tail end of 2010 and they do so again tomorrow at the Emirates with the home side looking to strengthen their Championship winning charge.

Arsene Wenger fielded a much changed side when these sides met at the DW Stadium last month and paid the price as his side dropped two points from a winning position. It’s unlikely he’ll make the same mistake this time around as he looks to put pressure on Manchester United at the top of the table. Wenger will be heartened with the fact that he will be able to call on nearly all of his squad with Thomas Vermaelen the only absentee who would have started. This means that Robin Van Persie, Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri and Theo Walcott will be in attack for the home side. It’s a daunting challenge for anyone, especially a Wigan side who are currently in the drop zone. The Gunners have been upset a couple of times at home this season, most notably by Newcastle and West Brom, so will be looking to cement their credentials as contenders for the Premier League.

Wigan have drawn too many games this season and it’s proving costly as they have surrendered too many games from a winning position. Last week’s home match with Fulham was a perfect example as they held a lead for most of the game before succumbing to a late leveller. Roberto Martinez knows that his side needs to turn some of these points into three if they wish to stay in the division come next season. With it being so tight at the bottom, it will be the smallest of margins which will decide who stays up and who goes down. It could be argued that Wigan are set up to perform better on the road than at home with their one upfront, with only a couple of wins on the road, however, it really is time for them to simply start performing.

Arsenal have won four of their last five at home in the league with Manchester City the only side to leave with a point. They are heading into this match off the back of a confident 3-1 away win in the FA Cup when they disposed of Leeds United so are in good heart. Wigan will have to make history if they wish to leave the Emirates with anything on Saturday as they have been turned over on all four previous meetings with an aggregate score of 9-1.

Arsenal will have far too much firepower for Wigan in my opinion and it’s a question of how many as opposed to if they will win. There are several bets which catch my eye and all favour a comfortable home victory.

My selections: Robin Van Persie to score anytime at a best priced 5/6 available with Stan James

Arsenal (-2) to beat Wigan at a best priced 13/8 available with Paddy Power

Over 1.5 first half goals at a best priced 5/4 available with William Hill

English Championship

Barnsley v Swansea

Second placed Swansea travel North on Saturday to take on a Barnsley side who are once again residing in mid table obscurity.

Mark Robins has a selection headache ahead of him tomorrow as he will have to do without his two centre halves who were both sent off last Saturday whilst he also has to look to replace their top scorer and best player Adam Hammill who has moved on to Wolves. Working with such a small squad as it is, then you really feel for the Barnsley manager who has done a terrific job in the main. A club who have always had to play with limited resources as it is, the Tykes are looking to better last year’s finish of 18^th and points total of 54. Currently two places better off, they are on course to do so, but will need to replace the goals and industry of Hammill. They were enjoying a good run in the last couple of months of last year, however, they have begun to struggle of late and have won just once in their last six games. Overall, their home form has been pretty strong with seven wins and three draws from their 13 games played thus far at Oakwell. The only teams to leave there with all three points have been Burnley, Leicester and Cardiff City.

Swansea are enjoying an excellent season under Brendan Rodgers. The Swans are currently sitting in second place and on course to sustain a challenge for automatic promotion. Only three points off of league leaders QPR, the Welsh club have overtaken arch rivals Cardiff who held second spot for long spells in the first half of the season. They head into tomorrow’s match knowing that they can draw level on points with Rangers who do not play until Sunday. The current league leaders would have two games in hand, but it would be pressure all the same. Last week’s trouncing of Crystal Palace was their fourth clean sheet in the league in a row, so it’s no real surprise to learn that they are in the top three for least goals conceded, with only Millwall and Nottingham Forest boasting better defensive records. The other end of that scale, however, is the lack of goals scored. With just 34 goals for in 27 games, Swansea have the worst offensive record of anyone in the top eight. Rodgers has looked to rectify that by bringing in Luke Moore from West Brom who has vast experience at this level and has led the line well as a lone striker.

With Jason Shackell and Stephen Foster both missing for the visit of Swansea, after being sent off last Saturday, Robins will have to shuffle his pack. With Hammill moving on to the Premier League, a change of system may also be in place as the wide player provided a much needed link between midfield and striker. Gary O’Connor is a shrewd acquisition at this level but will need support tomorrow. The man who could provide it is James O’Brien. The wide players moved from Motherwell last summer and has impressed in the Championship.

Leon Britton has moved back to Swansea after only leaving last July and is included in the squad for tomorrow’s game. His inclusion will be another positive for the support as he was a real fans favourite before his departure. His combative and intelligent style of play suits Swansea’s system so it’s no surprise to see Rodgers snap him up.

Swansea’s price looks a little skinny at face value but when you consider the players that the home side will be missing and the form Swansea are currently in, it’s still a price worth taking – away win.

My selection: Swansea to beat Barnsley

Best odds available: 11/10 available with William Hill

Saturday 18^th December

English Championship

Millwall v Barnsley

Both Millwall and Barnsley comfortably sit in mid-table as they prepare to clash at the New Den tomorrow afternoon.

Millwall started the season very well and looked as though they took the transformation from League One to the Championship in their stride. However it’s never as easy as it looks and there is bound to be some sticky patches along the way. The Lions have suffered one of those already as they went on a run of seven games without a win in September and October. Since then, they have suffered from a lack of consistency as they have won four, lost four and drawn three from their most recent run of fixtures. Kenny Jackett will have probably expected this kind of form at this stage in the season as they have a number of players who have never played at this level before. Of course it’s going to take time to adjust and mistakes will be made. Without a doubt, their biggest disappointment would have been the 6-1 mauling at home to London rivals Watford. It was humiliating and embarrassing but if the younger players learn from it then there will be a positive to take from it.

Barnsley seem to have been around the Championship for years. Mark Robins men have flirted with relegation more often than not in recent seasons but they have that knack of being able to accumulate just enough points to survive. This time around, however, they look to have enough about them to produce a comfortable enough campaign, with the small possibility of even challenging for a play-off position. They currently sit 10^th in the Championship, just four points behind 6^th placed Norwich City. It’s testament to the hard work and discipline that has been instilled in the side by Robins since he took charge in 2009. Aside from some senior strikers, it’s another pretty young squad which has resulted in an almost identical season. Thankfully for Barnsley however, they’re on a very good run of form at the moment after a slow start. Having won four of their last 5, undefeated in all, they head into tomorrow’s game full of confidence, especially as they have won their last two away games.

Without a doubt, Millwall’s star man of the season to date has been Steve Morison. The man who was playing league football for the first time last season, is the club’s top scorer and talisman on their return to the Championship. Now a Welsh internationalist, Morison has led the line superbly well and is catching the eye of some Premier League clubs heading into January. After notching a brace in his side’s last home game, he’s in decent form and will certainly be a pest for the visitors defence tomorrow.

Barnsley will do well to hold on to Adam Hammill as the tricky winger is the subject of some firm interest from England’s top flight. It’s no surprise really as the former Liverpool youth has seven goals from out wide and is thriving at present. When you consider the quality of player plucked from this league in the past, Hammill may well be plying his trade elsewhere next month.

Millwall’s home record has been in and out all season which will be frustrating for Jackett as they normally are so strong at the New Den. Barnsley have had a couple of good wins on the road of late, but they have been against sides struggling for form and even then, they were lucky to grab all three points. I like Millwall’s intensity and style of play at home and because of that, I believe they can triumph tomorrow.

My selection: Millwall to beat Barnsley

Best odds available: EVENS available with Coral  

English League Two

Northampton v Morecambe

Northampton host Morecambe at Sixfields tomorrow knowing a victory could hoist them as high as eighth in the table.

The Cobblers have had an indifferent season to date but things seem to be picking up heading into the festive period. A run of six straight defeats in the league earlier this season was a real shocker for everyone at the club but they have picked themselves up and managed to put a decent run together which has seen them lose just one league match since October. The last time they lost a match at home in the league was over eight weeks ago which proves that they have turned a corner. At the heart of this recovery has been veteran striker Leon McKenzie. The forward has scored six goals in his last ten matches including a hat trick over Hereford. His experience and ability to put the ball in the net is there for all to see and should prove to be a shrewd acquisition in the coming months.

Morecambe have had a real fall from grace this season after their exploits last term. Sammy McIlroy guided his side to the play-off’s last season, only to be thrashed by eventual winners, Dagenham. This time around, however, has been surprising for all the wrong reasons as they are currently languishing in 20^th place, just a couple of points away from the relegation zone. Their dire form may be partly due to their change in stadium as they made the move over the summer. It can have either a positive or negative effect on clubs, for Morecambe, it certainly seems to be the latter. Just two wins from their last nine games in all competitions has resulted in them plummeting to the lower ebbs of the division and very much in a dogfight to stay up.

For all of Northampton’s problems in the early part of the season, they have still only lost two games at home. With two wins and a draw from their last three games, Ian Sampson’s men will be in buoyant mood, especially as tomorrow’s visitors have not tasted success on the road in the same number of matches.

Form is everything in these kind of matches and it makes sense to side with the team on a good run of it. That being the case, I expect Northampton to claim all three points.

My selection: Northampton to beat Morecambe

Best odds available: EVENS available with Victor Chandler  

Scottish Premier League

Kilmarnock v Hibernian

Neither Kilmarnock or Hibernian have played in December due to the big freeze in Scotland so both will be desperate to get back into action at Rugby Park tomorrow.

I have previewed a couple of Kilmarnock games this season and explained that the difference between Killie this season to last is night and day. The style of football, the make up the squad and the entertainment value have all benefited from the change in management. Tomorrow’s match against Hibs represents a different challenge though as they have been inactive for a couple of weeks and unable to train properly because of the weather. With it being a pretty young squad, it will be interesting to see how they cope with not only expectation with the form they’re in, but also the lack of competitive action of late.

Hibs are on to their second manager of the season after John Hughes was sacked for a poor run of results. Colin Calderwood is now tasked with the challenge of toppling city neighbours Hearts from third position. Anything other than that would be considered failure by the Hibee faithful who have grown disillusioned with the club of late. Their recent form has been anything but consistent as they have mixed disaster with delight. A derby day trouncing by Hearts was followed with an excellent success away to Rangers. The quality is at the club but it needs to be focused and channelled in the right direction in order for it to flourish.

Five points separate the clubs heading into tomorrow’s match with Killie looking for a win to close the gap on Motherwell above them. In recent times, Hibs have a terrible record in Ayrshire which doesn’t bode well for them tomorrow. I like trends in the SPL and I believe that Kilmarnock were on too good a run of form before the enforced break for Hibs to gain anything tomorrow.

My Selection: Kilmarnock to beat Hibernian

Best odds available: 6/5 available with Betfred

Scottish Premier League

English Championship

Coventry City v Middlesbrough

The big freeze has hit British Football earlier than normal with a whole host of games already called off. One game to survive the cold, for now, is one taking place at the Ricoh Arena as Coventry host a struggling Middlesbrough side in desperate need of points.

Aidy Boothroyd took over as manager of Coventry during the summer and has looked to imprint his own style at his new club. He’s very much an innovative manager in the sense that he’s always looking to try different things and look for that extra edge no matter how it comes about. It seems to be doing the trick at the moment as the Sky Blues are in the lofty position of 6^th which brings with it a play-off spot. That is, of course, a long way off as we’re still not halfway through the campaign, but the signs are positive. Boothroyd led Watford to the Premier League when no-one thought they would come close, so he has proven he can work wonders under the right conditions. Like every successful manager, he has managed to blend experience with youth in order to strike a balance. Veteran’s such as Lee Carsley and Marlon King have both played at a higher level whilst the likes of Aron Gunnarsson and Ben Turner are providing enthusiasm and arrogance of sorts which comes with younger players.

Middlesbrough have endured a horrific season to date, so much so that they’re on to their second manager before Christmas as Gordon Strachan was one again replaced in a job by Tony Mowbray. Currently sitting second bottom of the table, three points off bottom, they are in real danger of dropping to English football’s third tier. Mowbray is in an unenviable position as he is working with some players who he sold to the club from his previous employers, Celtic. The likes of Barry Robson, Stephen McManus and Scott McDonald were considered to be surplus to requirements then but he has to rely on them once again. Another problem facing the former ‘Boro player is their shocking form away from home. From nine games on the road they have managed just one victory whilst losing seven. They have scored the fewest number of goals on their travels in the league which is something that simply has to turn around if they are to survive in the Championship this season.  

Coventry have been pretty solid, if not spectacular, at home thus far. Five wins and a draw from nine is decent enough but they must continue in a similar vein if they wish to stay amongst the promotion contenders come May. After a run of three straight defeats they have recorded back to back victories in the league without conceding a goal in the process. It will have pleased Boothroyd as it shows there is resilience within his squad and a determination to succeed.

Middlesbrough go into tomorrow’s match knowing that a defeat for them and a win for Preston on Saturday would result in the Teesiders being at the foot of the table heading into the Festive period. That should be reason enough for them to go into this match all guns blazing but it looks as though there is a lack of belief and commitment at the moment. Coventry have been impressive and powerful for a lot of the season, especially at home, and because of the lacklustre attitude that plagues ‘Boro at times, I believe the home side will triumph.

My selection: Coventry to beat Middlesbrough

Best odds available: 13/10 available with William Hill

English Championship

Derby County v Norwich City

Both Derby and Norwich have enjoyed a run of good form of late so something will have to give as they face each other at Pride Park tomorrow afternoon.

Nigel Clough has all but transformed Derby County since taking over as manager just under two years ago. After a sticky first year in charge, things have really came together for the son of Brian, and he’s starting to fulfil some of the promise he has always threatened to deliver. Derby’s form this season is very surprising for most as they have underachieved of late. Fourth position after 19 games and just six points off an automatic promotion place, everything bodes well for the next six months. Their home form has been the main reason for their position to date as they have been successful in six of their nine matches at Pride Park. In actual fact, they have won their last six games at home, albeit against some of the weaker teams in the league. Those wins, however, breed confidence as they head into matches against more difficult opponents in the coming weeks, starting tomorrow.

If Nigel Clough has done a very good job at Derby, then Paul Lambert has been even better in his quest to return Norwich to former glories. Appointed manager last season when bottom of the League One table, Lambert has guided the club to fifth place in the Championship after winning the league last year. It really is remarkable and testament to the hard work and nous of the former Celtic captain. They head in to tomorrow’s match on the back of a 4-1 mauling of arch rivals Ipswich last Sunday. It was a match they completely dominated and the score probably flattered Town as it could have been so much more. Man of the match and hat trick hero Grant Holt was at the centre of everything and is proving to be a massive player for the Canaries despite this being his first season at Championship level. Two defeats in 11 is pretty solid form and shows how hard to beat they are at the moment. Tomorrow’s game represents a stiff task but they have already been away to Millwall, Reading and QPR and managed to avoid defeat in recent weeks.

One thing this match should produce is goals as both teams are very offensive in their set up and look to win games, home and away. Norwich have failed to score in just one match away from home all season, against QPR, whilst Derby have a similar record at home as only Sheffield United have prevented them from netting this term. Goals have flown in at Pride Park all season as seven of their nine home games have included more than two goals in them.

Derby may just have the edge come the end of the game but I believe there is more value in siding with the goals than either of the teams tomorrow.

My selections: Both teams to score at a best priced 3/4 available with BlueSquare

                             Over 2.5 goals at a best priced 5/6 available with Betfred

Saturday 13^th November

English Premier League

Aston Villa v Manchester United

Gerard Houllier had many a battle with Manchester United and Sir Alex Ferguson when he was Liverpool boss so it’s a case of renewing old acquaintances as he now faces them as manager of Aston Villa.  

Houllier took over the Villa hot seat after Martin O’Neill sensationally quit the club just says before the start of the new Premier League season. Since taking the job it’s been a case of one step forward and two steps back until recently where they have put some sort of run together. One defeat in five league games has given them some much needed consistency and lifted them into the top half of the table. Villa have also had to contend with a number of injuries to players who have been a big part of their success in recent seasons. One of the most notable absences was Gabriel Agbonlahor. The striker has topped the scoring charts at Villa Park for the last couple of seasons and with him not in the side, they look a lot poorer. He’s beginning to get back to full fitness now and could start against United tomorrow.

Despite their problems this year, Villa have yet to taste defeat at home with three wins and three draws thus far. They have stifled Chelsea already this term so the signs are there that they can cope with the big boys when they come to town.

United are coming into this game off the back of a dour, disappointing and downright dull derby against City on Wednesday night. The first ever goalless derby draw in the history of the Premier League tells it all. Both sides were lacking in inspiration and any real desire to win the game. City will possibly get the brunt of the criticism as they were the home side; however Ferguson sent his team out in a defensive manner as well with one upfront. It’s getting to a stage in the season now where any dropped points are going to be even more crucial as Chelsea are beginning to stretch their lead to their magnificent and unstoppable home form. Already four points off the pace and with Chelsea at home to Sunderland this weekend; Ferguson knows that the margin for error is very small despite it only being the middle of November.

The away side will have it all to do as well when they travel to the Midlands tomorrow as they have won only one of their 6 away matches to date and haven’t been victorious at Villa Park for over three years in the league.

I am a firm believer of class and quality prevailing when push comes to shove and United certainly hold those cards tomorrow. However for them to win on the road for only the second time this season, they have to be much more adventurous and attacking, as it’s likely Houllier will play on the counter even though his side are at home.

I have had my fingers burnt a few times over the years when expecting United’s class to come to the fore, however I really believe that Ferguson will not want to slip further behind and because of this, he will go with two strikers. If they do, I expect an away win as Villa’s defence has been ropey when faced with two central players this term .

My selection: Manchester United to beat Aston Villa

Best odds available: 17/20 available with Blue Square

English Championship

Burnley v Watford

Both Burnley and Watford enjoyed flying starts to the season but things have since tailed off so they will be looking to get back on tract when they clash at Turf Moor.

Burnley really impressed at the start of the season, especially at home where they demolished sides at will. However they are currently on a run of just one win form their last seven games. The only real positive for manager Brian Laws is that they are also proving difficult to beat as they have only lost one game in that run. The problem for the clarets has been too many draws which can be just as harmful as losing a couple of matches. Their last three games have all been stalemates, admittedly against three decent teams in the shape of QPR, Norwich and Doncaster. Laws will be seeking a change in fortunes when Watford visit tomorrow in order to pick up some more points to boost their promotion hopes as they currently lie in ninth position, just a point off sixth place.

Malky Mackay will be experiencing the same feelings of frustration as his counterpart as Watford found themselves in the top six a month ago. A run of four defeats in six matches has witnessed a drop to 13^th and a further point off of tomorrow’s opponents. Watford’s main problem has been their inability to keep a clean sheet. They have only managed to prevent the opposition scoring in one of their last 10 matches. It will be a real source of annoyance for Mackay who was himself a no-nonsense defender during his playing career. Tuesday night’s defeat away to bottom dogs Crystal Palace basically highlighted their deficiencies as they held the lead in the second half only to make silly mistakes and end up with nothing.

Burnley still boast a very decent home record with just one defeat, and five wins, from eight matches played at Turf Moor in the league this season. Their sole defeat was a 4-0 hammering from Reading, however, which will still be fresh in the mind of the manager and players as another southern club visit tomorrow. Watford have been impressive on the road this term with wins over Norwich, Millwall and Sheffield United, however their three most recent matches on the road have all ended in defeat.

With their run of defeats on their travels, and Burnley’s pretty good form on their own patch, I think the home side will edge what is sure to be an entertaining game.

My selection: Burnley to beat Watford

Best odds available: 10/11 available with William Hill

English League Two

Rotherham v Oxford United

It’s not very often I delve into League Two but Rotherham host Oxford in match up which caught my eye throughout the week.

Rotherham were well and truly hammered during the week when hosting Huddersfield in the Johnstone Paint Trophy. A 5-2 reverse was sore to take from local rivals but with the form Lee Clark’s men are on at the moment in League One, it’s no great shame. In the league Rotherham have been very poor of late and have not won match since their victory over Accrington Stanley a month ago. One of the pre-season favourites for promotion, the Millers have faded in recent weeks but with Ronnie Moore in charge they have plenty of experience at the helm as well as some excellent individual players.

Oxford United sit comfortably in mid table after gaining promotion from the Conference last season. Their form has also tailed off of late with only one success from their last six matches. They haven’t even managed to gain a draw from the other five matches which will be a massive worry for Chris Wilder who is experiencing managing a side in League football for the first time in his career. He has moved to quell his side’s recent problems with the signing of three new players who should all face Rotherham on Saturday. Paul Wotton and Steven McLean have joined on loan from League one clubs whilst Ben Futcher also comes in on a temporary deal from fellow League Two side, and Wilder’s former club, Bury.  

Rotherham have to contend with placing at the vast and open spaces of the Don Valley Stadium where atmosphere is at a premium. They have coped relatively well with this hindrance as one defeat from eight games would testify. Oxford have been poor travellers since their return to league football with only one success from seven matches.

It may be more of a speculative punt due to the unpredictable nature of the league, but with a striker like Adam Le Fondre, top scorer in League Two, a win is never far away and with the price on the home win being what it is, I believe it represents huge value.

My selection: Rotherham to beat Oxford United

Best odds available: 5/4 available with Victor Chandler