English Championship

Saturday 5th November 2011

English Championship

Cardiff City v Crystal Palace

One point separates Cardiff and Crystal Palace in the table as both sides currently sit in the play-off zone so an attractive match is in proposition tomorrow at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Malky MacKay is four months into his job as Cardiff manager and despite some tricky moments and a lot of rebuilding, he looks to be getting things right on track for another push for promotion. Taking over from Dave Jones was always going to be difficult as he was in charge of some of the most successful Cardiff City teams in recent times. It’s a hard act to follow but the Scot is doing things his own way and getting a lot of success from it. Already in the quarter finals of the League Cup, his side sit fifth in the Championship, one point off tomorrow’s opponents and four points behind second placed West Ham. Their most recent match resulted in an impressive 3-0 success against Derby at Pride Park. It was only their second away win of the season but on the basis of it, it won’t be the last win on the road. Having won three of their last four they are hitting form heading into the Winter months which will delight MacKay as he is well aware that one team always puts together a run between now and Christmas which see’s them in contention for promotion.

Crystal Palace were previewed in this blog last month when they beat our selection, Ipswich, at Portman Road. It was a surprise to me as I felt that they were a far better side at home and that their early season form on the road flattered them somewhat. That’s not proving an error in judgment as they are now unbeaten in nine games in all competitions. Dougie Freedman’s side are also in the last eight of the League Cup so he’s another Scottish manager who is proving to be a hit in the English Championship. Palace have drawn their last two matches 0-0 with Reading and Portsmouth. Standards have been set so high that the Eagle’s fans will probably be disappointed with those results as they were both at Selhurst Park where they have been so strong this campaign. With three defeats and four wins from their seven away games, life is rarely dull on their travels. Their last defeat on the road was over a month ago and confidence will certainly be high, especially as their last away game was that impressive 1-0 win against the Tractor Boys.

MacKay has attempted to blend youth with experience during his overhaul of the playing squad. He has also looked to his fellow countrymen to bolster the players already there with the likes of Craig Conway, Don Cowie and Kenny Miller joining in the summer. All three are internationalists and will be key players in the coming months.

Palace will be hoping that Owen Garvan returns to the squad along with Alexander Tunchev. Both have missed recent games with injuries but are influential players who should at least find themselves on the bench. Jermaine Easter and Glenn Murray are likely to play upfront after forming a very hard working partnership.

Cardiff are on an impressive run of their own with just two defeats in 15 with their home record particularly impressive. From their first seven matches they have won four and drawn two. The only defeat at home has come against Brighton at the beginning of the season.

Their win against Derby was one of authority and they will hopefully have enough to dispose of a stubborn Crystal Palace side.

My Selection: Cardiff to beat Crystal Palace

Best odds available: 20/21 available with Boylesports

English Championship

Portsmouth v Nottingham Forest

Steve Cotterill returns to Fratton Park less than a month after leaving to become Nottingham Forest manager. Portsmouth will be desperate to put one over their former boss as the two sides clash.

Pompey have yet to appoint a full time replacement for Cotterill and it might be having an adverse effect on the players as from the four games since his departure, they have won just once and and lost two of the other three. Guy Whittingham, caretaker manager, is probably unlikely to get the role permanently but he will be doing is utmost to ensure he is being considered. Pompey’s home form has been good through all the upheaval with four wins and two draws from seven games. Their only defeat came against Peterborough at the end of September. After two games on the road where they picked up a solitary point, they will be glad to get back to home comforts and will be especially motivated as their former manager makes a return.

Forest were in dire straights before Cotterill took over in October. Steve McLaren’s reign was nothing short of a disaster and he had to go as players were simply not playing for him any longer. Since Cotterill has took charge their fortunes have definitely changed although their is plenty of room for improvement. Three wins from four matches is a big step in the right direction especially when you consider the calibre of teams they have beaten. Middlesbrough and Reading have been accounted for at the City Ground whilst a 2-1 win away to Blackpool means they have a 100% record on the road under their new boss. The only blot in his short career as Forest manager was a 1-0 loss at home to Hull where they dominated for large spells.

Portsmouth look to have been dealt a massive blow with the loss of their captain Liam Lawrence. The midfielder picked up an injury against Crystal Palace on Tuesday and it looks highly unlikely that he’ll be able to take part tomorrow. Greg Halford may well take his place as the utility man looks as though he’ll return from is own injury.

Forest are unlikely to change a winning formula after their 1-0 success against Reading. Cotterill has looked to stabalise the team and shored things up at the back. He will be looking towards Marcus Tudgay for their goals with the striker having notched in two of his four games in charge.

Passions are likely to be running high tomorrow come 3pm at Fratton Park. For all the good Cotterill did under immense pressure during his time with Portsmouth, football fans are a fickle lot and all they will remember is that he left their club for another, a rival in their own division.

It’s a more speculative punt than normal as a lot has to be taken on faith with regards to how well Forest are currently playing or if they have been successful because of the immediate impact of a new manager. Portsmouth have a small squad and with the loss of their influential captain it seems even more condensed. They don’t score too many at the best of times and with Lawrence out, they could be vulnerable against a team who look to be on a roll whatever the reason for their upsurge in form.

Cotterill will know these players inside out and as he’s a very shrewd character, the value may well lie in the away win.

My Selection: Nottingham Forest to beat Portsmouth

Best odds available: 85/40 available with Victor Chandler

There will be another preview for Sunday’s games so check back on Saturday night

Also, I have succumbed to the Twitter craze and will be updating regularly with my thoughts on football and horse racing so if you wish, follow me @CReilly1967

Saturday 10th September

Sunderland v Chelsea

Top flight league action returns after a week of International football as Steve Bruce’s Sunderland, still without a win, entertain Chelsea at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland have endured a tough start to their league campaign with just two points to show from their opening three games. They have found it hard to score goals having found the net just once which was on the opening day of the season. At the same time, however, they remain hard to break down which results in few teams getting the better of them. Liverpool could only manage a draw on the opening day of the season whilst Swansea, for all their efforts, had to settle for a point as well. It’s testament to the organsation of Bruce who prides himself on building from the back having been such an accomplished defender in his playing days. The Sunderland fans will be hoping that the new arrivals from the summer begin to click with Nicklas Bendtner the latest to sign on after agreeing a year long loan deal from Arsenal. He may just be the focal point the Black Cat’s need to push on and turn some draws into victories.

Chelsea remain unbeaten with two wins and a draw from their three games but few have been impressed with how they have reached their seven points. Andre Villas-Boas is learning the hard way in the Premier League that time is not a manager’s friend. Stuttering home wins against West Brom and Norwich followed an opening day draw with Stoke. The young manager said after that game that his side’s opponents were too physical and never played football in the correct manner – he may find history repeating itself tomorrow. Accused of lacking craft for a while now, Juan Mata and Raul Meireles who both arrived in August will be charged with providing that spark to ignite their title aspirations. Fernando Torres has looked sharper but is still to get off the mark this term whilst the likes of Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Nicholas Anelka are another year older.

Sunderland will make it difficult for Chelsea tomorrow with a five man midfield abley supported by a well drilled back four. Bendtner will likely start in place of Gyan who after the Ghanian injured himself in his country’s friendly against Brazil. Chelsea will also be without a striker in the shape of Drogba as he is still recovering from the vicious head injury he recieved in their last match against Norwich. This means Torres is likely to play through the middle with Mata and Florent Malouda possibly supporting him from the wide areas.

Chelsea have a magnificent record away to Sunderland winning on their last six visits. The home side will take heart from the fact they crushed Chelsea 3-0 last season at Stamford Bridge so they know it can be done. Personally I think Chelsea will be all the better for the International break and can seem them kicking on a bit now. Mata is a terrific addition to the squad and his trickery may well be the difference.

My Selection: Chelsea to beat Sunderland

Best odds available: 8/11 available with Paddypower

English Championship

Reading v Watford

Both Reading and Watford were much higher up the table for a lot of last season but they are looking up at most teams at the moment so both will be determined to get the points at the Madejski Stadium.

Brian McDermott must have been aware that this season would be even harder than his first full season last term. Not only did he need to pick his players up after losing out at Wembley in the play-off final, he also had to contend with the loss of key players such as Matt Mills and Shane Long. Both made big money moves and little of that money has been reinvested into the team. Adam Le Fondre has been brought in to shoulder the burden left by Long whilst Kaspars Gorkss has replaced Mills at the heart of the defence. Having impressively beaten Leicester at the Walkers Stadium in the middle of August, many would have expected the Royals to kick on but they have lost their next four games in all competitions. McDermott may well take some heart from the fact that every defeat has been by the odd goal but it’s little consolation as it still results in the same outcome – no points.

Watford have also had to contend with a shake-up in the summer as their manager, Malky Mackay has moved on to pastures new to take up the job at Cardiff. Sean Dyce, former player at the club, has come in but he has had to sell his best players as well. Danny Graham, last season’s top scorer, moved to Premier League side Swansea whilst Don Cowie has followed his former manager to Wales. It has resulted in Watford failing to win any of their five league games to date. Three draws with Birmingham, Coventry and Burnley, as well as defeats against West Ham and Derby have left many fans fearing the worst. The one positive that the Hornets can take solace from is the fact they have kept hold of their much sought after striker Marvin Sordell. Southampton were one of many sniffing about but he will be a Watford player until January at least.

Reading were one of the most impressive sides in the division last season and despite their departures, they still have a lot of quality. Le Fondre is a goalscorer and his move from Rotherham may prove to be a stroke of genius on McDermott’s part.

Watford on the other hand look likely to struggle this season. Dyce is very inexperienced and his signings have yet to impress. If it wasn’t for a last minute equaliser against Birmingham last time out then they would have been faced with the prospect of going into this match in second bottom place.

The home side look very attractive at the prices and with Le Fondre set to make his debut I can see them taking all three points tomorrow afternoon.

My Selection: Reading to beat Watford

Best odds available: 4/5 available with Betfred

English League One

Huddersfield v Tranmere Rovers
Huddersfield remain unbeaten but will face a tough test as Tranmere, who sit above them in the table, come visiting in search of extending their good run with their fourth victory of the season.

Having tipped up the Terriers in last week’s previews, they let readers (and myself) down as they could only manage a draw with rivals Oldham. Only the bar denied Alan Lee from helping Huddersfield to all three points but as it was, they settled for keeping their unbeaten record in tact. They will be looking to get back to winning ways tomorrow however as they cannot afford to keep drawing matches if they wish to pursue automatic promotion. With MK Dons and Sheffield United flying high at the top, Lee Clark will be aware that his side must be more ruthless infront of goal, especially on their travels. Their home record his strong, and has been for a while. Two wins and a draw from their first three matches, it already looks ominous for visiting opponents who will find it difficult to take anything from the Galpharm Stadium.

Tranmere have surprised many with their start to the season after a few seasons at the other end of the table. Les Parry, formerly the club’s physio, has worked wonders on such a limited budget. From their first six matches they have won three and drawn two, their only defeat was against Notts County in a five goal thriller, losing out by the odd goal. They have secured two wins on the road, however, both down in London with Brentford and Leyton Orient losing out respectively. They are a team very much built from the back as they have scored just seven goals from their half dozen league games. Tomorrow will arguably be their biggest test as Huddersfield have been in the promotion shake-up the last couple of years so Parry will be able to see how far his side have come in recent weeks.

Tranmere are packed full of experience from the back four right through to the strikers. They do, however, have a very small squad so getting points early may well prove vital come the end of the season. As much as these sides are only seperated by a point, I believe Huddersfield, especially at home, are much better equipped to mount a serious charge for promotion and sustaining their good early season form. Having scored seven already at home, I’m banking on the Yorkshire side to get the better of tomorrow’s opponents.

My Selection: Huddersfield to beat Tranmere

Best odds available: 3/4 available with William Hill

English Championship

Middlesbrough v Coventry

Middlesbrough look to continue their good start to the season when they entertain a Coventry side still searching for their first win of the season.

Tony Mowbray was successful with ‘Boro as a player and in his first full season in charge of the Riverside club, he’ll be looking for more of the same as manager. His side have made a good start to achieving their goal of promotion with three wins and a draw from their first four matches. Two comfortable victories in the League Cup have added to their confidence and they look a match for most sides in the division. Last weekends win over Birmingham will have been more pleasing as they needed to come back from going a goal down. It shows that their is a desire and determination about Middlesbrough this year that has been lacking in previous seasons. With a mixture of youth and experience, everything points to a strong challenge for the play-off’s, at the very least. What Mowbray will be hoping for is a strong home record and for teams to fear the Riverside.

Coventry have endured a torrid start to the season with just one point and one goal from their first four games. They’re not losing many goals with just four goals conceded but scoring goals is the name of the game and they need to start finding the net with more regularity. Andy Thorn is having a real baptism of fire in his first managerial role since taking over from Aidy Bothroyd last year. City are also out of the League Cup after being humbled by Bury in the first round. It means the pressure is cranked up even more for Thorn and his players and the longer it goes the more difficult it will be. It doesn’t get any easier for Coventry after tomorrow as they face the likes of Blackpool, Derby and Reading in the coming weeks. Even more daunting for the Sky Blues tomorrow is the fact that they have not won at the North East venue since 1993, it’s a terrible record and one they need to change to get their season going.

‘Boro will have to change things upfront as Scott McDonald is missing through injury. Already short on strikers, Mowbray will be hoping that whoever comes in will be able to support Marvin Emnes as the dutch striker looks to continue his impressive start to the season. Coventry have no fresh injury worries so they will look to the likes of Sammy Clingan and Lukas Jutkiewicz for some inspiration.

Coventry had a poor pre season which has carried on into their competitive games. Andy Thorn has his work cut out to turn things around but the last thing he would have wanted is a match away to an inform Middlesbrough side. ‘Boro have improved this term and are high on confidence after their recent results, I strongly fancy them to continue in the same form tomorrow.

My Selections: Middlesbrough to beat Coventry

Best odds available: 7/10 available with

***Please check back tomorrow for two further previews for Sunday’s matches***

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 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

Saturday 23^rd October

English Championship

Burnley v Reading

Both Burnley and Reading have tasted top flight action in recent years and will be determined for points tomorrow in an effort to return to the Premier League.

Brian Laws had a pretty disastrous spell when taking over from Owen Coyle at the start of the year. Three wins from 19 premier league games meant relegation and a straight return to the Championship; there were even calls for him to be sacked before the start to this season. He survived those claims however, and both he and his side have came out fighting. 20 points from their first dozen games means they find themselves in a very promising position of fourth, just six points off of 2^nd placed Cardiff City. The majority of their points have come at Turf Moor (16 in total) but they have only suffered a couple of defeats on the road at the same time, proving they are in pretty good form and also hard to beat.

I previewed Reading last week in their home match against Swansea and to say that their performance and result was a disappointment is an understatement. Tepid, indecisive and disjointed were three words that could apply for that game, as well as their most recent match – another 1-0 loss, this time away to Bristol City. Despite my confidence last week, there are signs there that Reading are beginning to struggle now after a very decent spell. One point from their last three and two goals scored in their last four suggest that something is amiss at the Madejski Stadium. It may just be a case of freshening things up and giving some of their younger players who have played a lot, a rest. Brian McDermott is still a novice as a manager at this level so it will be interesting to see how he can cope with this slump in form and what he does to both halt it and improve things.  

Without doubt, Burnley’s star man and player in form so far this season, has been former Manchester United youngster, Chris Eagles. The midfielder has been in scintillating form thus far earning the plaudits and praise of Brian Laws in the press. The midweek win over Barnsley saw Eagles net another two goals to bring his season tally to six (five in his last four games) resulting in Laws describing him as unplayable at the minute. Eagles has always threatened to be a quality player but has suffered from massive inconsistencies so he has to now build on his latest good efforts and ensure it lasts for the majority of the season. His battle up against Reading left back, Ian Harte, is sure to be one of the more intriguing match-up’s tomorrow afternoon.

Bristol City are the only team to have left Turf Moor with a point this season as the likes of Hull, Leicester and Nottingham Forest have all been defeated. Burnley also notched a famous victory over Coyle’s new club, Bolton in the league cup earlier in the season. With the form Burnley are in at home weighted against how poor and lacklustre Reading have been of late, I strongly fancy the home side to gain all three points.

My selection: Burnley to beat Reading

Best odds available: EVENS from a host of bookmakers including Betfred

English Championship

Nottingham Forest v Ipswich Town

Nottingham Forest and Ipswich both have a rich history of success, both domestically and in Europe, they meet each other at the City Ground on Saturday afternoon, looking for points in a bid to boost their chances of writing another chapter.

Nottingham Forest done ever so well to reach the play-offs last season in what was Billy Davies’ first full season in charge. Davies was forever telling the media and supporters that it would have been too early for the club to go to the Premier League. That may just have been bluster but with their start to this season, added to the amount of youngsters in their squad, then it may have been wise words after all. Forest started very slowly, much like last season, but there are signs that things are beginning to turn around heading into the winter months. One defeat in 11 matches has somewhat consolidated their position before hopefully, for them, pushing further up the table. Of those 11 matches, seven have ended in draws which have somewhat curtailed their progress up the league. Their last three home games have witnessed a return of seven points, wins against Middlesbrough and Swansea, and a draw with Sheffield United. Continuing this good form will be pivotal to any hopes of gaining promotion this season, especially at home.

Roy Keane endured a terrible start to last season with his Ipswich side which set the tone for much of the season as they were rarely out of the bottom quarter of the league for the majority of the season. Another year older, another year wiser, the Tractor boys have started this season much, much better. They are only two points and places outside the play-off places, giving themselves a far better chance of succeeding in their wish to be promoted after spending a considerable amount of money for the league. The last week, however, has seen two defeats in a row, one at home to Coventry and the other during midweek away to Watford. Keane will be stressing to his players the importance of halting this mini slump as soon as possible in order to stave off a lack of confidence or belief within the team itself.

Forest built their season around their home form in the last campaign. They suffered jut three defeats at the City ground last season and basically made it a fortress. What’s also interesting to note about last year, was that they really started to push on and put a run together from a similar point of the season to the one we’re currently at. Between the 27^th of September and the 6^th of February, Forest suffered only one defeat in the league. Davies knows the Championship inside out after spells with Derby and Preston before joining Forest, and he will know that it’s around this time of year where you can really give yourself a chance and put yourself in a position to challenge for the 2^nd half of the season.

Ipswich have looked sluggish of late which doesn’t bode well for tomorrow’s game. It doesn’t bode well ahead of their visit to the City Ground as Forest have not been defeated there in 25 matches. It’s also been over a decade since Ipswich won at the ground. A home win would put Nottingham Forest above tomorrow’s opponents and it’s one I believe they are capable of getting.

My selection: Nottingham Forest to beat Ipswich

Best odds available: 6/5 available with Ladbrokes

Saturday 16^th October

English Premier League

Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur

Top league domestic action returns with a bang at Craven Cottage as Fulham entertain Spurs in what is sure to be a frantic London derby.

After seven games in the Premier League this season, Fulham remain only one of two teams still to taste defeat, along with Manchester City. Mark Hughes has certainly built from the back and made his new side resolute and hard to beat, but also ensuring that they score goals going the other way as they have only failed to score in two of their seven matches. Their home form has been good for several years, it was taken started by Rod Hodgson before Hughes took over in the summer and it’s been taken forward by the present incumbent. Having only played three games thus far at home, they have amassed 5 points. It may not sound very impressive from face value, but when you consider they have played both Everton and Manchester United already, it suggests that the Cottage will remain a fortress once again this season. The aim for Hughes now is to turn draws into wins. With six stalemates from their opening seven matches laying good foundations, it’s now a case of improving on that if they wish to challenge for Europe again.

Spurs have been rather inconsistent compared to tomorrow’s hosts in terms of fluctuating results but they remain above Fulham simply because of more wins. Seven games have brought 3 wins, 2 defeats and 2 draws. Harry Redknapp would have probably expected that kind of pattern of results as his side embark on their first Champions League campaign of the season. It’s a hard thing for any club to do, manage domestic aspirations and challenge on the European stage, but Spurs are mere novices at this and it’s still early days but things look to be heading on the right track. Their away form is a pretty similar with three games boasting one of each outcome. Their most recent away fixture was another London derby against West Ham. Spurs dominated large spells of that game but were unable to convert one of many chances. This was, in part, down to the fact that they had several of their key players out injured, including Jermaine Defoe.

Neither side has had their troubles to seek in the injury department with both clubs missing key personnel already. Defoe was joined by Luca Modric and Michael Dawson on the treatment table with Modric the only one of the trio available for tomorrow. Fulham have had to endure the massive loss of Bobby Zamora who has broken his leg and will be out till the New Year. His absence was further compounded with the loss of Moussa Dembele who is also missing for the visit of their London neighbours.

These games have been notoriously tight of late with five of the last eight meetings at the Cottage ending in a draw, three of which have been goalless. It highlights how contested and competitive these games have become despite the difference in stature of the two clubs involved. There is little to suggest that tomorrow’s game will be any less competitive considering the start to the season for both clubs. I do believe, however, that the chance of goals is more likely this time around. Spurs have yet to keep a clean sheet on the road this term. From their five away matches (including European games) they have conceded eight goals and notched 7. Fulham have been slightly more conservative with three games boasting a total of seven goals.

Spurs very rarely draw a blank in back to back games on the road whilst Fulham are even less likely to go two successive games without giving the home fans a goal. I wouldn’t put anyone off backing the draw but I believe both teams to score is a sound bet.

My selection: Fulham and Tottenham both to score

Best odds available: 3/4 available with Blue Square

English Championship

Reading v Swansea

Three goals and one position in the table are all that separates Reading and Swansea so a close game is expected as the two clash at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday.

Reading have started where they left off last season with excellent form seeing them riding high in the table. Manager Brian McDermott took over midway through the last campaign and with a few more games, would have had a good chance of making the play-offs. This season started slowly with a mere three points from their first three games, however results have certainly picked up and they find themselves in 7^th position, just outside the play-offs on goal difference. The main reason for their healthy points total thus far has been their home form. Since their opening day defeat, they have won three and drawn one. Their last three home games have been unblemished with them taking a maximum 9 points, scoring 7 and conceding none.

Tomorrow’s match takes on an added edge. As well as the battle for points to get into the play-offs, Brendan Rodgers, the man who made way for McDermott to take over at Reading, returns to his former employers for the first time with his new club. Swansea have also carried on where they left off last season with a similar pattern emerging from their results under former manager Paulo Sousa – good at home, not so good on the road. From their 16 points on the board, only three of them have come away from home. Their away form was a problem for them last season and ultimately meant they missed out on a play-off position come the end of the season. Rodgers will be hoping that their last outing on the road is a sign of things to come as they defeated another one of his former clubs Watford, 3-2.

Reading will be looking to Jimmy Kebe to deliver once again as the midfielder has been in outstanding form already this season. With four goals already to his name, he has taken on the mantle of playmaker and main man since the £7m departure of Sigurdsson at the end of August. The visitors will be hoping that their on loan winger, Scott Sinclair, carries on in the form he was in before the International break. The young Chelsea player has scored eight goals in his last seven matches in all competitions.

Reading are on the crest of a wave at home at the moment, three straight wins have restored confidence after a shaky start and they will be determined to keep their run going, especially against their former manager. I’m always keen to side with a home side with momentum behind them and as I’m still not convinced with Swansea’s away form, I fancy Reading to get one over on their old boss.

My selection: Reading to beat Swansea

Best odds available: 23/20 with several bookmakers including William Hill

Saturday 25^th September

English Premier League

Birmingham v Wigan

Both Birmingham and Wigan only have one win apiece this season so neither side will be lacking in fight or desire at St Andrews tomorrow.

Alex McLeish has recently signed a new long term contract with the midlands club which is a sign of intent as he has done a fantastic job and transformed the club into an established Premier League outfit. He will be satisfied with his start to this season but frustrated nonetheless. An opening day draw at Sunderland was followed up with a home win over Blackburn. Since then, they have suffered their first defeat of the season in the derby against West Brom last week. Their most impressive display was arguably their home draw with Liverpool. But for Pepe Reina, the Blues would have easily won the game.

Wigan have been this season’s whipping boys, especially at home. Blackpool, Chelsea and Manchester City have all comfortably won at the DW Stadium already. Roberto Martinez’s side did spring a surprise on the road when they held on for a 1-0 success against Spurs at White Hart Lane. That, to date, is their only away match of the season thus far so Martinez will be hoping his side can replicate that form at St Andrews tomorrow. The biggest problem for Wigan has been their defence as they have conceded 13 goals already, the joint worst record in the Premier League along with West Ham. Add to that the fact they’ve only scored two goals all season (the worst in the league) then it’s fair to say that drastic improvement is needed if they are to survive this season.

Birmingham have a fantastic home record which they will be looking to preserve for as long as they can. The last side to take three points from St Andrews was Bolton Wanderers just under a year ago. It’s testament to how hard they are to beat and the belief that McLeish has instilled to the club. Wigan, on the other hand, have only won twice in 12 away games in England’s top division.

Alexander Hleb surprisingly moved to Birmingham on loan from Barcelona at the end of August. But it’s another midfielder who has caught the eye already – Craig Gardener. The former Villa player has been in scintillating form and has three goals already to his name.

Wigan are an unknown quantity away from home as they have only played the one match on the road and Spurs were particularly poor that day. However, you cannot get away from how strong the home side are on their own patch and I’m taking them to enhance their fantastic run at their ground with their second 3 points of the season.

My selection: Birmingham to beat Wigan

Best odds available: 5/6 available with several bookmakers including Betfred

English Championship

Norwich City v Hull City

These sides were separated by two divisions this time last year but both Norwich and Hull are both vying for wins in the Championship, at opposite ends of the table.

Paul Lambert has been in charge of Norwich for little over a year but what a year it’s been. The club were propping up the League 1 table before Lambert joined but the Scot got them playing attacking, winning football, and before long, they were well clear and won the League 1 Championship. This season has been much of a continuation and they find themselves in the Play-off places after half a dozen matches. Despite losing their first match of the season, at home to Watford, they have surprised many with such a young, and small squad.

Hull City have had a complete opposite start to the season.  An opening day win at home has been their sole success of a terrible season thus far. Nigel Pearson knew what he was inheriting when he took over in the summer – an ageing squad which needed trimmed due to massive financial problems. He has had to deal in free transfers as well as loans from the EPL in order to try and build a squad capable of staying in the division let alone being promoted. From their three away matches this term, they have zero points, conceded nine and scored one, it doesn’t bode well for their trip to Carrow Road.

Norwich have defeated Swansea and Barnsley already at home and will be looking for their third consecutive win to carry on their momentum. Key to their fortunes will be Grant Holt who is their main source of goals and their captain. He is the experienced head in amongst the youngsters around him and will be pivotal to anything that Norwich which to do this season. Hull have recalled Jimmy Bullard lately despite the fact he looked destined to leave due to his high wages. He could prove a talisman but you have to question how much desire he has at this level.

I watched Hull’s last game at home to Nottingham Forest and it was such a poor match, low in chances, low in entertainment and low in quality. Norwich can take advantage of the disarray tomorrow’s opponents find themselves in and add to their already decent tally at this stage of the season.

My selection: Norwich to beat Hull

Best price available: Evens available with several bookmakers including William Hill

Scottish Premier League

 Celtic v Hibernian

Celtic will be looking to maintain their 100% domestic record as Hibs travel to Parkhead tomorrow afternoon.

Neil Lennon is still boasting a 100% record in the SPL since taking over in March and it shows no signs of stopping soon. Since they were last previewed, Celtic have defeated Hearts and Kilmarnock in the league before destroying Inverness 6-0 in the league cup during the week. Lennon will be hoping that the run can continue with the first Old Firm game of the season creeping ever closer with the 24^th of October looming. He will also know that Rangers are doing just as well as his own side and will want to keep the pressure on their arch rivals as they play on Sunday this week.

Hibs have had a dreadful run since winning on the opening day of the season away to Motherwell. Two defeats at St Mirren and at home to Rangers have been in amongst a couple of poor home draws with Hamilton and Inverness. Boss John Hughes will feel the pressure even more now since his side crashed out of the League Cup away to Kilmarnock despite taking the lead. On top of all that, they lost their star striker, Anthony Stokes, to tomorrow’s opponents.

Celtic are a different proposition at home than they are on the road. Three narrow away wins have kept their run going but it’s at Celtic Park where they have been most impressive. A 4-0 thumping of St Mirren was followed up with a 3-0 success against Hearts and as already mentioned, the 6-0 win over Inverness means from three domestic home games, they have scored 13 and conceded zero.

With the form Hibs are on at the moment and the fact confidence is low within the Easter Road camp, you fear for them when they travel to Glasgow. They look toothless upfront and very leaky at the back so it probably won’t come as a surprise to note I am siding with the home side for a very comfortable win.

Also, Stokes has scored 3 in 2 for his new club and should start against his old club. It would be typical if he notched another against his former employee’s so it would be negligent not to side with him

My selections: Celtic (-2) to beat Hibernian at best priced 12/5 available with Paddypower

                            Anthony Stokes to score at anytime at a best priced 10/11 available with Bet365