Liverpool may be Merseyside’s top dogs, but like rivals Everton, the Reds have problems. The top four is out of reach, while the Toffees are in desperate need of investment. And Merseyside’s problems are compounded by Manchester’s successes.
Chelsea’s decision to sack Andre Villas-Boas leaves the Premier League giants once again searching for direction. With ageing stars and a recent history of success, it may be Italy that the Blues should look to for a new course.
English Premier League outfit Aston Villa recently took Robbie Keane on a short-term loan, and the Irishman showed the Midlands club the creativity and guile missed in the last five years. Boss Alex McLeish must address his side’s deficiency.
Fabio Capello’s shock resignation from the position of England manager has stunned the footballing world. But the Italian’s decision to call time on his reign after feeling undermined may well offer England fresh impetus ahead of Euro 2012.
QPR’s decision to sack manager Neil Warnock was on the cards, with club owner Tony Fernandes quickly making his presence felt. Fernandes joins many other Premier League sides in being places where the owner is king.
Newcastle United made one of the signings of the season when buying midfielder Yohan Cabaye from Lille. The tempo setter has proven the Magpies’ success story and retaining his services is essential for the club to prosper.
The curtain is drawn over Alessandro Del Piero’s Juventus career, but perhaps not on his playing stint entirely. Del Piero wishes to carry on for a little longer, despite an exit from the Bianconeri.
Stoke City’s Europa League exertions already appear to be taking a toll on their form in the English Premier League. And boss Tony Pulis faces an age-old dilemma: which competition to prioritise.
The English FA’s decision to contest a ban handed out to Wayne Rooney for violent conduct has been the subject of much debate. Are England right to believe Rooney was treated harshly? Or should the national team accept the striker’s fate?
Wales have a new generation and hopes are high that a major international finals can be reached. While the 2014 World Cup may come too soon, Euro 2016 is a realistic goal.
