Huddersfield

Saturday 12th November 2011

English FA Cup

Luton v Northampton

The league sides enter the FA Cup as all the sides have that dream of reaching Wembley. League Two Northampton, struggling in their division, travel to Luton who will be hoping they can cause a shock and knock out their higher ranked opponents.

Luton have been close to regaining their league status a couple of times in the past few years but they have not quite managed to get over that elusive line. This season is proving a little more difficult as they currently find themselves outside of the play-off’s. It’s still very early, however, and the seven points they are behind the league leaders is not much of a margin when there’s more than half a season and 27 games still to be played. Their home record has been their biggest strength thus far as they have won six of their 10 games at Kenilworth Road, losing three. Their most recent match was a 2-1 loss at home against Fleetwood Town last weekend which would have been a tough one to take as the sides are so close together in the league table. Gary Brabin, in his first full season as Luton boss, will be excited at the prospect of testing his squad against a side from League Two and it will be a measure of how far they have got to go.

Gary Johnson has enjoyed a lot of success in the FA Cup at his previous clubs, most notably Yeovil Town in the early 2000′s. He’s not having as much enjoyment, however, with his new club Northampton as they find themselves closer to the relegation zone than the top of League Two. A lot was expected from Town this season with the new man in charge and the batch of players he brought in. Things havent panned out that way though and with five losses from their last six matches they are currently in 20th positon, just three points off the second relegation spot. Fans are rarely patient in football and with Johnson being so experienced having been around a few clubs, he knows that results need to improve or a change may have to be made. They have managed to pick up more points on the road in the league than at home so another away game may be what they need to kick start their season.

Brabin will be hoping that Amari Morgan-Smith can transfer his goals from the Conference into the cup competitions like last season. Morgan-Smith scored a hat-trick in last season’s FA Cup and has started this campaign even better with nine goals from 15 matches.

Northampton have found it difficult to keep a clean sheet all season. From their 17 matches they have kept the opposition out just three times whilst they have scored in all but five of their League Two matches. Johnson will be aware that they need to shore things up at the back to get more wins but will be confident in the knowledge that if they do manage to do that, they have goals in the team to push them up the table and improve their season.

Kenilworth Road is a hard place to go at the best of times as it’s a tight pitch and the fans create an excellent atmosphere. Northampton, unfortunately for them, are not visiting at the best of times with the run of form they are currently on. They have lost their last three and four of the last five on the road. I think Luton can take advantage of the magic of the FA Cup and add to Northampton’s woe’s.

My Selection: Luton to beat Northampton

Best odds available: 11/8 available with Ladbrokes

English FA Cup

Swindon Town v Huddersfield

A mouthwatering clash at the County Ground see’s Paolo Di Canio’s Swindon entertain Huddersfield as two sides in form meet for a place in the next round of the FA Cup.

Swindon have been on a rollercoaster ever since Di Canio took charge of the club during the summer. There has been public fall-outs with players, impressive performances and the odd heavy defeat. Sometimes up, sometimes down but it’s always been interesting under the former Celtic, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham talisman is getting to grips with being his own boss. He’s not started too badly at all as Swindon are currently in the play-off zone, seven points off an automatic promotion spot. Their recent form is very good as they are on an unbeaten run of eight games winning six of those. It’s been their most consistent period of the season thus far so it may be that Di Canio is growing into the job and instilling the same belief that he had, into the players.

Huddersfield have been in superb form all season and still remain unbeaten in the league. Lee Clarke’s men equalled Nottingham Forest’s record for the longest unbeaten run in the football league last weekend when they drew 1-1 with Walsall. Ordinarily it would have went down as a disappointing result for the Terriers but to equal the record as they did is an incredible achievement for any club, let alone one playing in the fiercely competitive League One. Clarke will be hoping that this season, unlike the others, will end in promotion to the Championship and that his side’s hardwork will get their deserved reward in May. As it is, league business is put to the side and the club’s focus is on progressing in the biggest cup competition in the World.

It promsises to be a very attractive tie as Di Canio and Clarke were both very good footballers in their own right. They also had a grounding as players which has formed their footballing philosophy as Clarke played under Kevin Keegan whilst Di Canio was signed by Tommy Burns and Harry Redknapp. All three were managers who wanted to play the ball on the ground, attack with purpose and provide the fans with entertainment. Those traits have been adopted by tomorrow’s managers so the fans should be in for a treat.

Swindon have been strong at home with five wins from their eight matches and only the one defeat. They average well over two goals per game as well whilst they don’t concede many either so they will be confident of holding their despite playing against a side a division above them.

Huddersfield have always struggled to turn draws into wins in the league which has been the main reason for them remaining in League One. This season they have won nine and drawn eight of their 17 league games so it looks as though that may still be a problem. They are consistently hard to beat though and will know that despite their lofty league position will count for nothing when they run out tomorrow.

I can see a game of goals at the County Ground on Saturday with so many attacking options on display. I would normally side with Huddersfield but they will have to do without Jordan Rhodes who is on International duty with Scotland this weekend. As that is the case I will go for the overs and hope that the phisophies of Di Canio and Clarke come to the fore.

My Selection: Over 2.5 goals

Best odds available: 7/10 available with BlueSquare

Scottish League Division Two

Cowdenbeath v Stenhousemuir

A rare step into the lower leagues of Scotland for our third preview this week as top of the table Cowdenbeath take on third place Stenhousemuir.

Cowdenbeath have been in superb form all season so it’s no surprise to see them at the top of the table at this stage of the season. They have a 100% record at home in the league winning all five of their matches thus far and have been beaten just twice all season. The Fife club have former Scotland international Colin Cameron as their play manager and his influence cannot be underestimated as his side continue to impress. Cameron was a dynamic midfielder in his prime and having been born just a few miles outside Cowdenbeath, his career has come full circle.

Stenny have surprised many with their form this season which see’s them sitting just five points off of tomorrow’s opponents. Like Cowdenbeath they have been very strong at home with five wins and a draw from six games. Their away form is not has clever with just one win on their travels. They’ve lost just one more game than Cowdenbeath though so they too are a team bang in form and hard to get the better of.

Cameron, unlike many well know managers starting in the lower leagues, has refrained from bringing in some old pal’s to imrpove the club’s fortunes. Instead he has decided to go down the route of inexperience and put his faith in younger players. It is already paying off as the enthusiasm and energy that come’s with using younger players is readily outweighing the fact they have little experience of being in this position.

Stenny have a more experienced squad than their opponents on Saturday but are proving that it can pay to go with an older head or two. The challenge will come over the winter and early Spring as that is when the race for promotion really starts. Will the older heads of Stenny prevail, or will the younger legs of the Cowndenbeath squad just have that vital edge.

Stenhousemuir got the upperhand earlier in the campaign when they beat Cowdenbeath 3-1 back in August. That was earlier in the season and the form Cowdenbeath have been in you can bet it will be a lot closer this time around.

Home form counts for a lot in the this league and having already won five on the bounce in the league, scoring 13 and conceding five, the selection has to be the home side against a team who have won just once on the road this term.

My Selection: Cowdenbeath to beat Stenhousemuir

Best odds available: 5/6 available with Coral

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

Saturday 3rd September

Sheffield United v Bury

The Premier League and Championship in England takes a break for a week due to International football so League One and Two take centre stage. Sheffield United have made a strong start to their campaign and will be looking for another three points at home to Bury.

Danny Wilson is quickly becoming the man of many clubs, Yorkshire clubs to be precise. Having started out with Barnsley, he had an unsuccessful spell at Sheffield Wednesday before being manager at a further four clubs before ending up at the other Sheffield club. Four wins from five matches means they are joint top of the table and it’s a start that has rejuvenated the Blades’ crowd after relegation last season. The squad is pack full of experience and there are a few players who have stayed on at the club to prove that they are worthy of the magnificent support they always recieve. Richard Cresswell, Nick Montgomery and Stephen Quinn are no strangers to Bramall Lane so they understand what the club is all about. The way the fixtures have fallen has meant that United have played just one match at home in the League thus far so it makes the start even more impressive.

Bury have made a steady enough start to lives in League on with two wins and a draw from their first five matches. Sitting in mid table at the moment, it’s surely a position that everyone associated with their club would take come May. They have already defeated one half of the Sheffield clubs when victorious at home last months. That match will give them confidence that they can take on the big clubs in the division of which the Steel City clubs most certainly are. Their other victory was away to Wycombe Wanderers, they kept a clean sheet that day so again, the fact they have got their first away win will be a weight off their collective shoulders. Richie Barker is in his first managerial post after a a playing career which spanned more than 15 years – much of it in the lower leagues in England. It is a test for him and his side but at the moment, they seem to be coping rather well all in all.

United will be looking forward to getting back to Bramall Lane after playing just one match so far. With a big crowd expected, United may well face their two new loan signings from Rangers in the shape of John Fleck and Kyle Hutton. They will add real energy and drive to the squad, bringing about a better balance within the squad between experience and youth. Bury will have to do without their talisman in recent seasons, Ryan Lowe. The prolific striker has moved to Sheffield Wednesday ironically enough so the challenge for Bury will be to replace Lowe’s goals to enhance their chances of staying up.

There was two divisions between these sides last season as United were in the Championship and Bury were promoted from League Two. The fact they are now competing in the same division suggests, that for very different reason, they deserve to be. I think the odds on a home win are very generous and I am selecting them with a good deal of confidence to get their fifth victory of the season.

My Selection: Sheffield United to beat Bury

Best odds available: 4/5 available with Coral

English League One

Oldham Athletic v Huddersfield Town

It’s another battle of the roses as Lancashire based Oldham take on Huddersfield from Yorkshire at Boundary Park.

Oldham have started in League One for well over a decade now, and for most of those years, they have been in and around the bottom half of the able. Apart from a couple of years at the start of this decade when they reached the play-off’s, it’s been a struggle for the Lactics. This season has started with two victories and three defeats, not bad after they lost their first two matches of the season. Their home form is nornally what keeps them in the league so Paul Dickov, in his second season in charge, will be hoping to boost their points total with a victory tomorrow. Dickov has bolstered his attacking options this week by signing Shefki Kuqi. The veteran forward played with his new manager when at Blackburn the Scot will know exactly what he will bring to his side. Kuqi is likely to make his debut tomorrow alongside loan signing Tom Adeyami from Norwich.

Huddersfield remain undefeated after five games with two wins and three draws. After losing key players such as Anthony Pilkington and Lee Peltier in the summer, it’s taken a little longer than expected for the Terriers to find their full stride. Last weekends 3-0 romp against Wycombe certainly signalled their intention however and they well be hitting a bit of form. It was their third win in a four in all competitions with the only blot on their copybook in that run being an extra time defeat to Championship side Cardiff. Despite the departures there are still plenty of goals in the side with Lee Novak and Jordan Rhodes still scoring freely. The introduction of players in the ilk of Tommy Miller from Sheffield Wednesday will hopefully boost the chances of Huddersfield going one step better in their bid for promotion. Having failed at the semi-final stage of the play-off’s two seasons ago, they were beaten 3-0 by Peterborough in the final last season.

Oldham may have been underachieved in recent seasons but the fact they have not been relegated in so long shows that they can be hard to beat and that they can get a result when they need to. Obviously, so early in the season, the pressure is not on as yet which I think play’s into the away teams hands. The pitch will be in the best state of the whole season which will suit the footballing style of Clark and his side. With so many matchwinners in their side, I think Huddersfield will be victorious on their travels for the first time in the league this season.

My Selection: Huddersfield to beat Oldham Athletic

Best odds available: 6/5 available with Victor Chandler

English League Two

Crawley Town v Bristol Rovers

Big spending Crawley were most people’s favourites to win League Two this season whilst Bristol Rovers posess a strong squad after their relegation from League One last season so tomorrow’s match looks nailed on to be entertaining.

Crawley romped the Conference last season and they have taken well to life in League one as they currently sit just three points off of first placed Rotherham. Last weekend’s defeat to Cheltenham was their only blot thus far when losing 3-1 away from home. It was a shock to many especially as they were 3-0 down at half time. Steve Evans will be hoping for a reaction from his players as it is now three defeats in a rown across all competitions. They do boast a 100% record at home however and have yet to concede a goal having notched five themselves. The man who scored for fun last season has taken off on the same foot this one as well with three goals from four. It means that Matt Tubbs has now scored 40 goals in 44 league games, an amazing record.

Bristol Rovers may well be a little disappointed with their start to the season as they had a couple of results where most expected better from them. Last weekends draw with Hereford was not on the agenda and they will consider it two points dropped. Manager Paul Buckle will be looking to his experienced players to get back on track as they also lost out in the cup during the week. Adam Virgo at the back is a big presence is more ways than one whilst Matthew Gill in the middle of the park has impressed thus far. It’s upfront where Rovers have struggled with just six goals scored in the league to date. Whay may come as a consolation to Buckle is the fact they are unbeaten at home in the league taken four points from a possible six.

It is a big match in the context of League One and much like the Sheffield United v Bury match, there were two divisions between the sides last term. As ever though, there is a reason why they are in this League and with Crawley so impressive at home added to a slightly indifferent start from their more illustrious opponents makes the home side clear favourites. They are a side I would stay on the right side of more often than not when playign in Sussex and I’m taking them to get back on track after three defeats on the road.

My Selection: Crawley to beat Bristol Rovers

Best odds available: 4/5 available with Betfred

Charlton‘s squad looks to have a bit of quality about it this season and the Addicks look a decent bet at William Hill‘s 9/1 to grab the League 1 crown and start edging back towards a position in the Football League to which their support are more accustomed. It’s been a barren few years for Charlton fans and last season’s 13th place was another new low, but rookie manager Chris Powell has addressed several problems over the summer and made a few shrewd signings which suggests the Londoners should do a lot better this term. Danny Hollands and Rhoys Wiggins both did well for Bournemouth last season and will have learned from their play-off experience with the Cherries, while Paul Hayes should score goals for funs at this level and former Exeter captain Matt Taylor is a good man to have around when the going gets tough. Bradley Wright-Phillips should be all the better with a proper pre-season behind him and adds further quality and Charlton can make a major impact this term.

Another side that catches the eye at bigger odds are Carlisle. No side relishes a trip to Brunton Park in the depths of winter and it’s unlikely the Cumbrians will forfeit many points again this season in front of their own fans. Greg Abbott was obviously fairly happy with last season’s squad because he hasn’t added much to it but the Cumbrians have impressed in pre-season victories over higher-ranked opposition and did win the Johnston’s Paint Trophy last season, which has proved a surprisingly good indicator for the following year on occasion. United can be backed at 50/1 with bwin and William Hill, and get a generous 24 points start on the handicap (18/1) with the latter.

Given last year’s near miss, Huddersfield Town are favourites with most layers, Willam Hill again best at 6/1. Losing a play-off final can be a demoralising blow to a club but Lee Clark‘s squad has plenty of strong characters and the fact that the manager has just spent £1million on Bolton’s Danny Ward suggests he still has the backing of the board for now. The Terriers shouldn’t be far away but I’m yet to be convinced that Sheffield Wednesday are ready to make a title push, despite Gary Megson‘s heavy investment in power over panache. They are 7/1 with William Hill. For once, it’s easy to pick holes in the merits of relegated sides Preston, Sheffield United and Scunthorpe, while the promoted teams could also struggle to acclimatise to a higher level. Last season’s League 2 champions Chesterfield, for example, have lost their best two strikers. 

At the bottom, Bury may find it tough to survive and can be backed for an immedaite return to League 2 at 11/4 with Skybet and Victor Chandler, while Hartlepool also look set for another season of struggle and are the same price with Betfred and totesport for the drop. Oldham’s summer signings have been collectively underwhelming and it would be no surprise if they were to also be looking down rather than up for most of the campaign. Paul Dickov‘s side are 3/1 with Betfred and totesport for relegation.

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

Some more great FA Cup action on Sunday, with Arsenal v Huddersfield looking to be one of the more entertaining ones. You pretty much know what it is that you are going to get from the Gunners, slick passing and more likely than not, a totally dominant display against lower opposition. The Gunners, who moved into the final of the Carling Cup with a 3-0 win over Ipswich in the week, will be looking to press home a nice draw and home advantage in the FA Cup, as they look for more silverware. Arsenal are getting some players back fit again, which should make them stronger, with Squillaci, Diaby and Rosicky all ready to pull on the Arsenal shirt again. There has been something of a rotation policy going at the Emirates this season, but one noticeable difference from this season and past ones, is that Arsene Wenger is putting out stronger sides that usual in the cup competitions. The youngsters are being held back in an attempt to end the silverware drought at the club. There is a massive 45 places between the two teams in the English standings, and there is only one expected outcome. Betting on an Arsenal win really is not going to prove too fruitful in terms of profit, as they are massive favourites. What you need to consider is how big of a margin will they win by?

The Gunners are in pretty good form, and you can’t see an upset on the cards here, even though Huddersfield are in good shape themselves. They  have not lost in their last seven matches, but you feel that the League One side will be more enjoying an afternoon out in London, as opposed to realistically be thinking of a victory. The online bookmakers certainly are not looking at anything other than an Arsenal win, and the Gunners are second favourites to win the FA Cup this year (behind Manchester Untied). Whoever Arsene Wenger puts out at the Emirates, it is going to be too good for Huddersfield. Wenger just has an embarrassment of riches in the midfield and forward department, and they should be able to run up a few goals. It is well worth doing your FA Cup betting at Victor Chandler for this one, as they are offering a 1st Scorer 2nd Chance promotion on it. This means, when you place a First Goalscorer bet, and that player fails to score the fist goal of the match, but does score at any other time, then you won’t lose out completely, as Victor Chandler will refund your lost stake on the First Goalscorer market, as a free bet. It’s pretty much take your pick from the likes of Nasri 19/4, Fabregas 19/4, Van Persie 23/10, Bendtner 17/4 and Chamakh 18/5 as first goalscorers, all of which will be good bets with this bookie insurance.

Arsenal to win: 1/7 at Totesport
Draw: 9/1 at Victor Chandler
Huddersfield to win: 22/1 at Victor Chandler

Southampton were one of the best teams in League One last season, although a large points deduction for going into administration and a slow start prevented them from reaching the play-offs. This time around, the Saints have been installed as strong favourites to win the division and they may well oblige at odds of 5/2 that are available with Sporting Bet. The Hampshire club shouldn’t be short of goals thanks to the firepower of Rickie Lambert and Lee Barnard.

However, as we saw with Leeds United last season, the short-priced favourites don’t always oblige and it’s perfectly possible that Alan Pardew’s team could have a run in one of the cup competitions. Not to mention the fact that they are the big fish in the division with the exception of a certain sleeping giant in south Yorkshire!

Sheffield Wednesday supporters must have thought they had seen the back of the English third tier, although this well-supported club are once again enduring a downward spiral and there’s not much cash available to improve the side. Although Allan Irvine seems like a decent manager and Clinton Morrison was an eye-catching signing for the Owls, the odds of 6/1 (Victor Chandler) about them winning League One look a little skinny.

Indeed, the bookmakers have done their usual trick of making the relegated trio from the Championship too short in the outright betting for League One. Peterborough (12/1 Victor Chandler) might bounce back under Gary Johnson, but we can practically draw a line through Plymouth (18/1 Blue Square) who have appointed the hapless Peter Reid and will be lucky to scramble a place in the top six.

Instead, it may be preferable to consider a progressive team such as Huddersfield Town or Brighton and Hove Albion. The Terriers reached the play-offs under Lee Clark last term and the former Newcastle player will be looking for his team to improve their away form and grab themselves an automatic promotion spot. With Jordan Rhodes, Theo Robinson and Lee Novak leading the line, Ladbrokes’ 8/1 about them winning this division looks well worth taking.

Brighton were situated near the foot of League One for much of last season, although the appointment of Gus Poyet as manager proved to be the turning point. The Uruguayan rallied the Seagulls to the extent that they were beating some of the best teams in the division and Paddy Power offers excellent each-way value at odds of 14/1.

Swindon Town were a whisker away from being promoted last season, losing out in the play-off final to Millwall by a single goal. The Robins are 20/1 (Coral) on the outright market this time around, although the sale of striker Billy Paynter to Leeds arguably makes them a weaker prospect this time around.

Notts County are the most interesting of the newly-promoted teams that came up from League Two last season. While their financial position continues to be murky, they have the benefit of momentum gathered from last season and Lee Hughes should score regularly at this level. Victor Chandler offer 25/1 that the Magpies are crowned champions in May.

Apologies for the late post, I was holding off as much as possible to see which games will survive the horrific weather conditions in the country today.

 Saturday 19^th December

Scottish Premier League

St Johnstone v St Mirren

Gus McPherson takes his St Mirren side to MacDiarmid Park to take on St Johnstone in a match that will give the victors some much needed breathing space at the foot of the table.

The home side have earned many plaudits from other clubs managers and supporters for their exciting approach to the game. They have the 5^th highest goals for in the league which is no mean feat for a side who have just been promoted to the top league in Scotland. They have, however, conceded the most amount of goals in the league, with 29, 4 more than any other team. Their cause is not likely to be helped today with Derek McInnes’ missing at least 7 players for today’s match. One of those who is definitely out of the game is Collin Samuel. The striker is not only his teams top scorer, he’s also arguably their most important player. He leads the line well and gives them the option to go in behind with his pace.

St Mirren have struggled for wins off late, with none in their last 6 league matches. It’s a bit of surprise that they have struggled as much lately, especially after comfortable wins over Hearts and Falkirk in October. They have missed their talisman Andy Dorman in recent weeks as the Welsh International has picked up a long term injury. His absence has taken away a lot of the creativity from the St Mirren side. The emphasis for McPherson’s side is now more on getting the ball up earlier to their physical strikers, Michael Higdon and Billy Mehmet. Both were troublesome for the Falkirk defence last week, with the former netting a spectacular goal in the 1-1 draw.

The spoils were shared when these sides last met back in September. The parks were far better than what they are now, the players were fresher and there was still a surprise element to St Johnstone’s style of play. 3 month’s on, the parks are beginning to cut up, the  squads are  suffering from injuries and suspension and there is the suspicion that other teams are becoming wise to McInnes’ tactics. This is highlighted by a defeat to Kilmarnock in their last home match. Killie, much like St Mirren, were coming off the back of a poor run of form and their style of play is very similar to that of Gus McPherson’s side. With that in mind, and with the amount of key players the home side are missing, I just feel that St Mirren have the knack of winning against teams in and around them, especially when they’re not playing too well.

My selection: St Mirren to beat St Johnstone

Best odds available: 9/4 available with several bookmakers including Coral

English League 1

Norwich v Huddersfield

A match between these two sides at this time of year has all the makings of a Christmas cracker as Paul Lambert’s 3^rd placed City play host to 5^th placed Town.

Paul Lambert has transformed the fortunes of the Carrow road side since his appointment in August. He has got the team playing exciting and productive football which has catapulted them up the league table, sitting comfortably within the play-off positions and with a real chance of automatic promotion. He has built his side around his captain, Grant Holt. The prolific striker has already notched 13 goals this season since his move from Shrewsbury in the summer. It’s not just goals which Holt brings to the side; he is an excellent team player. He holds the ball up, he links up well with the midfield and is always willing to work back to help out his defenders. His performances, coupled with the consistent displays by his team-mates, have resulted in only 1 defeat in 16 league matches. This is a staggering run of form at any time in any league, but it’s even more impressive when it’s a new manager in such a fiercely competitive league.

I’ve previewed Huddersfield several times already this season so I think we all know what I think of them. I am a big fan of their attacking philosophy both home and away and I fully expect them to be in the promotion shake-up at the end of the season. Lee Clark will know that these games will be the true test of how far his team has come this season as Norwich have only lost 1 game at home all season, and that was under former manager Bryan Gunn. Town have let themselves down on the road this season, picking up just 8 points from a possible 30. They will know that they have to improve on their travels, sooner rather than later.

Having watched both sides on a couple of occasions this term, I think this will be an open match with more than a couple of goals and both sides scoring. The managers are attacking by nature and set their teams up to win games. Huddersfield showed a couple of weeks ago when drawing 2-2 at Elland Road that they are able to give anyone a game, home or away. Norwich, however, are very strong at home and I just think that Holt and Chris Martin will pose too much of a threat to a porous Huddersfield defence.

My selection:  Norwich to beat Huddersfield

Best odds available: 11/10 available with several bookmakers including Bet365

Sunday 20^th December

Scottish Premier League

Hearts v Celtic

This fixture has proved to be problematic for Celtic in recent times as they never get it easy when travelling to Tynecastle to take on suspension and injury ravaged Hearts.

Hearts have had a disastrous start to the season and currently find themselves in 8^th position, 6 points off of the bottom and 20 points off top spot. Their discipline has once again let them down, especially recently. They have had 3 red cards in the last 4 matches which has been extremely detrimental to their fortunes and results. They have only picked up 1 win in 9 league games which is basically relegation form in any league. For tomorrow’s match, they will be missing Ian Black and Suso Santana who are both suspended whilst Christian Nade is also set to miss out due to injury. This will likely mean a start for fit again Calum Elliot upfront which will mean even more reliance on their midfielders to get forward in support.

Celtic have turned their season around in recent weeks with 5 games unbeaten and some very encouraging performances in the process. 3 home wins in a row was followed by a come from behind victory away to Motherwell and then most recently on Thursday night, they secured a morale boosting 3-3 draw in Europe, despite being 3-0 down inside 20 minutes. In all 5 of these matches they have demonstrated a strong resolve as well as a will to win which was sadly lacking in some games at the start of the season. A lot of this will be down to a settled team, especially in the centre of the pitch. Marc Crosas has formed a very decent partnership with Landry N’Guemo in midfield whilst Gary Caldwell and Glenn Loovens are settled at the back as are Scott McDonald and Girgios Samaras upfront. This consistency has meant more impressive performances and improved confidence in the side. One man pushing for a start is Marc-Antoine Fortune. The £3.8m striker has scored 3 in his last 2 so will be hoping to dislodge Samaras, especially as the Greek is struggling with injury.

These games are very competitive and the midfield will play a big part for both sides. Aiden McGeady, despite being in danger of missing the derby match in January, will most likely play and he is in excellent form. He creates chances and has added goals in recent months, with 5 already in the league. Hearts have been very poor of late, but it would not be a surprise to anyone if they turn in a strong performance tomorrow. Even still, Celtic are in good form and will always score goals, with their increased confidence and key players finding form, I fancy them to win tomorrow.

My selection: Celtic to beat Hearts

Best odds available: 4/6 available with Totesport

Good Luck and Merry Christmas

Saturday 12^th December

English Championship

Watford v Derby County

Derby look to end their awful run of form on the road but they’ll find it extremely difficult to get anything from Watford who have now won their last four matches at Vicarage Road.

Watford continued their recent run of good form at home with a convincing, but hard fought, victory over London rivals QPR on Monday night. Despite going a goal behind early on, Malky MacKay’s side stuck to playing their football and got their rewards with three well worked goals against a good Rangers’ side. Tom Cleverley was again at the heart of everything that was good about the Hornets’ play and he’ll be the biggest threat to Derby tomorrow afternoon. His loan deal from Man United has been extended and he’ll now finish the season with the Championship side which will be a huge boost for everyone at the club.

Derby have failed to score in their last 5 away matches, but have still managed to pick up a couple of draws in that run of games. They are by far the lowest scorers away from home in the league with a measly 5 so Nigel Clough has attempted to make them harder to beat on the road because of this. They got a good point in midweek when travelling north to Preston but they are also a side lacking confidence so they should find Watford a different proposition altogether.

Watford will be hoping that the Henri Lansbury, the young midfielder on loan from Arsenal, will be fit to play after missing Monday’s victory. He has an excellent understanding with Cleverley and their styles of play complement each other. Derby will have to do without Dean Leacock who was injured in the stalemate with Preston which will mean a reshuffle at the back and this could be their downfall as he’s looked impressive of late, as well as being the organiser at the back.

Derby have struggled against the better sides in the league all season long. Nearly all their victories have come against sides in and around them at the foot of the table so I don’t hold out much hope for them tomorrow, home win.

My selection: Watford to beat Derby County

Best odds available: 19/20 available with several bookmakers including Victor Chandler

English Premier League

Manchester United v Aston Villa

8 points and 3 places separate these sides in the current Premier League as Martin O’Neill’s pretenders travel to the reigning Champions, Manchester United.

Man United’s defensive problems have been well documented of late and it’s a case of everybody rolling their sleeves up and mucking in while their recognised defenders sit out through injury. This has been the case for the likes of Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick. Both of whom are superb midfielders but they have also proven themselves to be adept at playing centre half in the last couple of matches. They get some respite this week though with the likely return of Nemanja Vidic who has got over his flu bug. He should be a certainty to return to the line-up. United will be looking to Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs to provide the spark going forward as both were at the centre of everything last weekend at Upton Park. They have an understanding which makes them almost impossible to stop when both are on form.

Aston Villa have won two and drawn two of their last 4 matches so come into this match in decent enough form but most of those games and points have come at Villa Park. Their away form is patchy this season with 2 wins, 3 draws and 2 defeats. It’s not the worst record by any means, but they have dropped some silly points on the road already, especially against West Ham and Wolves. They only picked up 1 point from these games and both were games where they should have won as they were on top for long spells and their quality was far higher. They do score goals on the road though and they’ll feel they can cause United’s makeshift defence problems, especially in the air with either Emile Heskey or John Carew partnering Gabby Agbonlahor upfront.

It’s hard to see anything but a United win in this match as they are beginning to hit form and scoring goals from all over the park. Michael Owen has staked his claim for a starting spot with his midweek hat-trick but it doesn’t matter who plays, they’ll create a plethora of chances throughout the game. Their patched up side will also have its biggest test with Villa in good scoring form as well and capable of scoring goals from a variety of positions. With this in mind I fancy over 2 goals as well as the home win.

My selection: Manchester United to beat Aston Villa – 1/2 available at William Hill

Other selection: Over 2 goals – 4/5 available with Skybet

English League one

Huddersfield v Gillingham

Notoriously poor travellers Gillingham travel to a side who have not been beaten at home all season in the shape of Huddersfield.

I’ve previewed Huddersfield already this term and they haven’t changed much since then. They score an incredible amount of goals at home and they tend to win most of these games. 7 points from a possible 9 in their last 3 home games, with 11 goals scored and 4 conceded in that time. They dropped points in their last home match however when drawing 3-3 with lowly Tranmere which was a surprise considering how efficient the Terriers have been at home.

Gillingham have it all to do if they are to get anything other than a hiding tomorrow. They have a solitary point from their 10 away matches and have conceded 24 goals on the road, scoring just 7. It’s horrific reading for a team who are so hard to beat at their own place. They have already lost to Leeds United, Southampton and MK Dons away from home, by at least 2 goals as well. They also have to do without key defender Josh Gowling which will leave them even more vulnerable at the back.

Huddersfield are one of the best sides in League 1 and must be the most free flowing, attacking team in the division at home. They score goals for fun and always look to attack no matter who they are playing, emphasised by their 2-2  draw with top of the table Leeds at Elland Road last weekend. The more cautious amongst us may wish to take the 1/2 for a home win but I’m taking a slightly riskier bet and taking the home side to be winning at half time and full time as well as Huddersfield minus a goal.

My selections: Huddersfield to be winning at HT/FT – available at 6/5 with Coral

                              Huddersfield (-1) to beat Gillingham – available at 5/4 with Bluesquare