Man Utd 1-0 Arsenal- but loss isn't terminal for Gunners

Watching football really isn't good for my heart.
 
But enough about me, and onto the game. Hyped up by the Sky media machine, this was the BIGGEST GAME OF THE SEASON as the table toppers travelled to Old Trafford to visit the Champions. There was much emphasis put on the fact that if Arsenal won, they would be 11 points above United. And, sure, that's a big total. But from the way the 'experts' were talking, that would be the reds's title challenge dead in the water. Has everyone forgotten 2008 here?
 
But without doubt, this was still a massive match. For all of Arsenal's brilliant displays this season, you could argue that only their incredible defensive display at Dortmund showed them winning a game they weren't favourites for. But if they beat United in Manchester for the first time since 2006, it would send a real message to the rest of the country that they really, really mean business. Of course, they were still title challengers before this match (what more could they do, Alan Shearer?) but winning would confirm them as truly back. And also put a knife into the team of Robin Van Persie, which would be nice.


"Why do I even still wear this coat?"

But it didn't happen. And although the 'jokes' came about on twitter almost instantly (Phil Jones has left the ground with £42 million in his pocket, Ozil has been returned to Arsenal...#YOLO #BANTZ #SWAG) this was a game Arsenal can take a lot from, especially when you take into account all of their absentees.
 
A virus running through the camp robbed them of two of their best players, the resilient and commanding centre back Mertesacker, and the beautifully balanced and inventive playmaker Rosicky. Rosicky must be the most unlucky footballer of recent times considering all of his injury problems. (Diaby doesn't count. That C**t is just too much. He was born with a fu*king calf strain for god's sake.) He just offers so much to the side, and the Gunners missed almost every aspect of his play, the neat one twos, the constant pressing and urgency, and the drive from midfield, what with Ramsey largely off the pace.
 
But if you look at the two line ups, as a United fan I was shi**ing myself worried before kick off. The middle of the park boasted such quality from an Arsenal point of view, a five man axis versus two men, one of whom, Phil Jones, was out of position. But from the word go there was a distinct lack of intensity in the Arsenal ranks. There was no real attempt to press United, it reminded me of the game against Sociedad in midweek, where the hosts gave David Moyes's men way too much space, through a combination of fear and respect of the Champions.
 
The home side certainly had the better of the opening exchanges with Wayne Rooney in particular up for it; constantly looking forward whilst in possession, and when without, the England star chased down anyone near him like a dog after a stick. (Insert hilarious joke here comparing the animal's intellect favourably to Wayne's). But seriously, that determination ran through the United side. The sense of the whole squad (no, not you Ashley Young. Diving pri*k) angrily wanting to prove everyone wrong and beat Arsenal was palpable. They shut down the much vaunted trio of Cazorla, Ozil and Ramsey, and Arsenal's only effort on goal in the first half was a tame Grioud header from a fair way out. That is not to say that Man Utd tested Szczesny at the other end, as really I can't recall many problems for him either in the first period, apart from when challenging for the ball Phil Jones, who is made of granite, accidently poleaxed him.



"Take that Piers!!!"

 
Before that though, Van Persie scored a technically perfect header from Rooney's teasing delivery. (Honestly, that corner was gagging to be put away. You could see it arcing towards the most lethal finisher on the pitch and you fu*king knew the outcome. OOH ROBIN VAN PERSIE) Depending on who you were supporting, this was either an immense moment which showed who he really loved and demonstrated his class, or the traitor supreme showing a complete lack of dignity with his celebration. For the record, all the crap that Arsenal fans give him, including the 'she said no' song, should really blow any call for him to celebrate respectfully out of the window. Why expect class when Arsenal fans clearly don't give him that? Personally, I loved it when he celebrated passionately. But the inevitable goal from RVP didn't stir Arsenal into a fightback, which was surprising. Instead, after the goal, United took control, with Jones and Rooney both breaking through on two separate occasions, with Arsenal having to resort to sitting deeper until the break.
 
The Vidic substitution, after De Gea clattered him, forced Jones, the player of the half, back into the back four and Arsenal dominated the opening spells of the second half. But it was very much false domination, the possession in that 45-60 period was probably 65% Arsenal, but they didn't create anything of note. Where was Ozil or man of the moment Ramsey? The best opportunity before the clock struck an hour fell to Wayne Rooney, as after a superb break by Valencia, he deftly flicked the ball above Sagna's challenge with his right peg, before hammering a shot agonizingly wide with his left.
 
Wilshere came on for the tired Flamini and immediately the pace of Arsenal's passing went up, as United retreated nearer and nearer De Gea's goal. Crosses were frequent but Jones and the excellent Evans dealt with them all. But the thing was, England's saviour  Wilshere's introduction coincided with an Arsenal effort that pegged back Man Utd. There were no break or any United presence in the opposition half as Valencia and Kagawa, for the first time in the game, were denied space and time to turn and run at their markers. Effectively, in United's backyard they were forcing them to play defensive. This observer certainly did not like to see that.
 
The problem was, they were not creating any clear cut opportunities- Wilshere, Ramsey, and Giroud all had half chances but what Arsenal needed at this point was a fresh threat and a different style of attacking. What they essentially required was Walcott or Oxlade-Chamberlain to climb off the treatment table and run at United. It must have pretty despairing for Wenger knowing his side needed fresh impetus while they were on top, and knowing as well his best option for that was THE GREATEST STRIKER THAT EVER LIVED Bendtner. Still it was hugely encouraging for the Gunners that they kept United at bay for almost the whole second half.
 
That is not to say that United didn't have their heroes, Valencia completely stopped Cazorla on the left, meaning him coming off for Bendtner wasn't quite as crazy as it seemed. This was crucial, as Arsenal kept a lot of the ball and occasionally you just wanted someone to have a go, and their main threat from range is Cazorla. Phil Jones was utterly immense, Carrick and Cleverley did a great job on Ramsey and in keeping the ball at the death, and Rooney never stopped running and was intelligent with his ball use.
 
There were chances for both teams in the closing stages as Smalling somehow missed a glorious headed chance from a delicious Van Persie free kick and Bacary Sagna whipped in two of the best crosses I've seen for a while but they evaded everyone both times.
 
Oh wait, I just realised I originally wanted to write a quick intro and then player ratings, but I've written like a whole match report. That's passion for you. Or being alone on a Sunday night. Again. Your call. Fu*k my life.
 
Player ratings
 
Manchester United
 
David de Gea I bloody love you Dave. I mean your beard is sh*t but you can't have everything. He wasn't called upon much but did put Vidic in hospital, so is a beast. I think. Clean sheet. 7/10 
Chris Smalling Very nervous on his selction at right back, and I didn't really feel he played that well. The height advantage was key at set pieces but didn't look comfortable in possession. 6/10
Jonny Evans Another commanding performance from United's most consistent defender. Irrepressible in the air and unbeatable in the tackle, and many other big words. 8/10
Nemanja Vidic (Cleverley 46) Giroud didn't beat him once, in the air or on the floor. Always a safe presence  at the back, and United were noticeably shaky after his departure. 8/10 
Patrice Evra Every time I think he's at the knackers yard, he digs out a performance like this. Whether it was Ozil or Ramsey on the right didn't matter to Evra, who sums up the spirit, experience and know how to win big matches like this time and again. Impeccable with the ball at his feet and superb at wasting time late on. (Completely different from the cheating that you persist with Ashley Young, before you ask. What a penis that bloke is. Such talent but spends most of the time on the floor.) Is he just not motivated for matches against Stoke and the like? I don't know, but more like this Patrice please. 8/10
Michael Carrick The 'Geordie Xavi' didn't have his best game, but it sums him up right now when he can be pretty poor and still dictate our tempo for a sizeable portion of the match. Made some key interceptions in the second half, and got to grips with Ozil well. Facial hair was terrible. 7/10
Phil Jones Remember when Fergie said that Phil Jones will be the greatest to ever play for United? It's matches like this where you think the greatest manager on the planet was right again. In the first half he denied space for Ozil, made interceptions, drove with the ball, and passed so well I thought it was Carrick (because Carrick is basically Pele in my eyes). In the second half, pushed into the heart of defence, it was header after header, clearance after clearance, and some calm, soothing, sexual switching of play. Fu*k, it was Franco Baresi and Roy Keane rolled into one unstoppable force. Got booked for challenging for the ball because he broke Szczesny. Some of his blocks were so last ditch and unbelievable I almost forgot I'm failing Uni. Almost. 9/10
Antonio Valencia Inspirational in the first half, driving forward with the ball while completely marking Cazorla out of the game and simultaneously stopped Gibbs from getting forward. 7/10
Shinji Kagawa (Giggs 78) A superb dribbler who didn't really play well. Cut inside to try and inflict damage but was a bit ineffective and drifted out of proceedings. 5/10
Wayne Rooney England's best footballer reminded everyone how good he is. He didn't have a lot of the ball but he got an assist and worked his bollocks off. (Hmm. Should I censor bollo**s? Naa, Google will be fine with it. Hopefully.) Denied a goal but overall, brilliant again. 8/10
Robin Van Persie (Fellaini 85) Scored a superb header but actually was largely subdued by Koscielny. In the second half often was used as a target man to ease the pressure on defence and held it up well. He will make all the headlines tomorrow though, no doubt, despite a pretty average game for him. But what a goalscorer. What a player. What a man. If he told me tomorrow to quit my job and drive to his house to feed his kids grapes and yogurt, I fu*king would. (I have no job, and I don't drive) ORVP 7/10
Subs- Tom Cleverley Struggled to get into the game and his arrival took Phil Jones away from the engine room, allowing Arteta to take control. Recovered and was decent defensively. 6/10
Ryan Giggs His introduction ahead of Nani and God's gift to the world  Januzaj was met with disapproval, but he calmed things down at a time when it was most frantic. 7/10
Marouane Fellaini He won a few headers, and therefore denied Arsenal the ball, so did his job. But for £27 million you want a bit more. At least be ahead of Cleverley, no? 6/10
 
David Moyes I'm getting used to it now, but it didn't help to see Sir Alex in the crowd today. But actually got his team spot on and his subs correct. I was screaming out for Nani or Januzaj to start or even come on but Valencia's selection was fully justified and all the subs played a part. Well done, now tell us is Zaha screwing your daughter or not because if not play him a bit yeah? 8/10
 
Arsenal
 
Wojciech Szczesny Couldn't be blamed for the goal, otherwise wasn't really tested, so i'll use this space to say I think he's been utterly immense this season and has answered all his critics. I do wish he'd change his name to like John Smith or something though. 7/10
Bacary Sagna Was Arsenal's main threat in terms of clear cut chances created and did a great job on Kagawa. Solid defensively and always quality on the ball. 8/10 
Laurent Koscielny Arsenal's brilliant defender didn't do anything wrong all game, a real achievement given he was not partnered by Mertesacker. Relished landing a couple of big tackles on Van Persie and advanced into midfield well. 7/10 
Thomas Vermaelen The Belgian defender who actually can't defend is still the club captain, laughable when you consider this was his first start since April. And how good have they been in his absence? Still, he was relatively solid in this match, and kept United quiet. 7/10
Kieran Gibbs Couldn't stop Valencia going past him and couldn't go past Valencia. Panicked in possession too a couple of times. 5/10 
Mikel Arteta (Gnabry 83) The midfielder controlled the game in the first 15 minutes of the second half with accurate passing and superb awareness. A real shame that for once his more attacking colleagues didn't show, as Arteta was superb throughout. 7/10
Mathieu Flamini (Wilshere 61) Arsenal's unsung hero this season was clearly unfit and it was shown, tired passes and futile attempts to track Rooney. Positionally top drawer though. 6/10
Aaron Ramsey Where was the Ramsey against Liverpool, or Dortmund? The Welsh midfielder was totally off the pace and a real disappointment. He gave the ball away a lot and wasted oppurtunites by trying to dribble rather than look for a team mate. He wandered from his position too much and was well marshalled by United. 4/10
Mesut Özil Couldn't get into the game, and seemed to not like the close attention Carrick and Jones gave him In the first half. Was neat enough and certainly not the worst Arsenal player but we have begun to expect so much more. My theory is he needs a rest, and this would be easy enough back in Madrid with Modric and Isco available. But until Arsenal's injury problems start solving themselves the German must solider on. Still created space well but was just not quite performing. Not his night. 5/10
Santi Cazorla (Bendtner 78) Valencia stopped him when he was on the left, Carrick stopped him in the middle and he was anonymous on the right. A real let down for Gunners fans as they needed one of his long range specials to do something and create a bit of belief amongst the team. When Arsenal were stuck in one of their 'passing across the final third' stages, they looked to Cazorla for a trademark burst of acceleration, or neat turn, or better still, a pop from 25 yards, but he was utterly, painfully sh*t. 4/10
Olivier Giroud "OOH but what if he gets injured" scream all the anti-Arsenal people. Giroud has been tremendous this season but the reality is he needs help up front in these types of games, oh how he would have wished Podolski to arrive to act as a foil. Alas, he had Bendtner. Still, worked hard, never gave up, and you got the feeling if he got a proper chance he would have taken it. 6/10.
Subs- Jack Wilshere Smoking Jack is a lovely player to watch when on form, as he glides past people and slides inch perfect passes through to the forwards and you're sat there thinking HOLY SH*T WHERE'S MY GUN THAT KID IS LIKE TECHNICALLY SOUND AND HE PLAYS ON THE HALF TURN GIVE HIM 100 ENGLAND CAPS NOW. But the constant injuries has led him taking a bit of a back seat this year. Wilshere's style is such that he needs to be on the ball constantly, he needs the team built around him, he needs players to make space for him. He is still young and will learn to be a real team player, but right now Arsenal look better without him- like in the other games in the past week, the wins over Dortmund and Liverpool. But him coming off the bench led to a spark in Arsenal as he demanded the ball off the defence and drove at Carrick at Cleverley in the way that Rosicky would have done. He created opportunities and energised a side lacking a bit of zest. But he got booked for a petulant push on Evra and perhaps should have had a shot rather than look for a pass late on. Crap I've written like a whole paragraph here. 7/10
Nicklas Bendtner How is he still employed by Arsenal? Gave the ball away every time he had it and didn't even attempt to get to Sagna's awesome cross in injury time. Remember when he scored a hat trick vs Porto in the Champions League and looked as if he was finally growing up? That was a loooong time ago and the most frustrating thing for Gooners is that he still has ability, but he's such a deluded c**t that he'll never make the most out of his talent. 1/10
Serge Gnabry Has done well for Arsenal in this campaign and did more in 10 minutes than Cazorla and Ramsey combined. Has a bright future indeed. 7/10
 
Arsene Wenger The best manager left in the Premier League deserves success for his financial prudence and unwavering commitment to youth, but I fear it will not be this season. Wenger's squad was exposed tonight by the lack of options to add life into the flailing Arsenal corpse (injecting life into a corpse? What an analogy. I surprise myself sometimes with my brilliance. Like Messi in a way) and he was not helped by the non performance of key men. Could he have done anything differently? Not really, but playing Flamini, who was unfit, ahead of Jack didn't pay off. 6/10
 
Overall- An excellent and crucial win for United that lifts them up to 5th and only five points away from the summit. But things are not over for Arsenal and Wenger and this win should only lower the expectations and therefore calm the players down, who looked a bit nervous at times tonight, it has to be said. But as Sky will no doubt say something like THE TITLE RACE IS BACK ON or ARSENAL'S CHALLENGE STOPS HERE so I'm bound to say that although the result is massive for United, for Arsenal, it doesn't change much. They need another striker, they need injured players back, they ARE challengers for the league title, and most importantly, it's about whether they're still top in March/April, than their position now.

Wow how the hell did I write all of that. I mean I started writing this at about half 12 and it's like quarter past 2 now why am I doing this I need to get a life. Naa, lives are overrated really, and I really love writing this sh*t because football is the best thing about a world full of poverty, anger, and corruption. Even better than Pasta. And I like Pasta. If you've made it this far, seriously, well done. I mean don't just pat yourself on the back, literally applaud yourself. The fact that you've read my incoherent ramblings for this long is remarkable.

Thanks for reading, Adam.
 



This GIF is amazing by the way. United through and through, this lad



Premier League preview part 1: Arsenal, Aston Villa and Cardiff

Arsenal

Last season: Premier League: 4th F.A. Cup: 5th rnd League Cup: 4th rnd Champions League: Last 16.
IN: Yaya Sanogo (free, Auxerre).
OUT: Andrey Arshavin (Zenit St Petersburg, free), Denilson, Sebastien Squillaci (released), Sanchez Watt (Colchester, free), Craig Eastmond (Colchester, free), Johan Djourou (Hamburg, loan), Vito Mannone (undisclosed, Sunderland), Francis Coquelin (loan, Freiburg), Andre Santos (free, Flamengo), Joel Campbell (loan, Olympiakos), Gervinho (£8m, Roma), Ignasi Miquel (loan, Leicester), Marouane Chamakh (free, Crystal Palace).

It's been a different summer for Arsenal in several ways. For a start, there has not been in a protracted and tiresome transfer summer involving one of their best players. Some might say this is because they've all left. For the first time also, Arsenal have publicly admitted they have cash to burn. For years now the newspapers have speculated at just how much Arsenal have in transfer funds, (usually around the time season tickets are up for renewal) but the club themselves have muttered something about the new stadium and Financial Fair Play. This year has been different, with £70m pledged to Arsene Wenger. But as of yet, they have done fu*k all the only signing the Gunners have made is the free transfer of Yaya Sanogo.



"Maybe Liverpool would accept £40 million and a £15 iTunes voucher"

 In this of all summers, that is a disgrace. With the three teams above them last season all changing their manager, this was a unique opportunity for Wenger and Arsenal to proved once again that they are among the elite in Europe and push the boat out for new players. 4th place is not good enough for Arsenal supporters anymore and the fact that new coaches Mourinho and Pellegrini have acted swiftly to fill gaps while Arsenal sat back and tentatively let Napoli buy Higuain is telling.

Of course, Arsenal are still, as pundits always put it, 'two or three' top players away from really challenging to get the title back. But most Gunners fans would gladly settle for finishing in the top four along with a trophy. Any trophy. Its been 8 long years and counting since silverware has been lifted by the Arsenal skipper.

But there are positives. Wenger seems to have finally realised Vermaelen is a terrible defender  settled on a partnership at the heart of the defence- the excellent Per Mertesacker and Koscielny. Helped by Sagna, Gibbs, Monreal and the improving goalkeeper Szczesny, Arsenal conceded only 37 goals last season, with only Manchester City boasting a better record. Arsenal also finished only 5 and 2 points adrift of City and Chelsea respectively, suggesting that a couple of quality buys will push Arsenal right up there. Arsenal did end last season unbeaten in their final 11 games.

But Arsenal seem to have a very thin squad, especially when you take into account their players extremely poor injury record. The loan deals of Djourou and Coquelin make little sense- surely Wenger must know by now whether they are good enough for not- and the sale of Gervinho may prove to be a bad move if injuries strike. If Arsenal don't improve their team before the window slams shut I see them slipping out of the top four. But then again there is still time to find a hidden gem- after all, Mertesacker and Mikel Arteta were deadline day signings back in 2011.

Key player: Olivier Giroud. The tall Frenchman took a lot of rather undeserved criticism last season, despite scoring a very respectable 11 league goals in his first campaign in England. But the reality is that if Arsenal are to get near the top three Giroud will probably have to score 20 goals this season. The good news is that he is perfectly capable of such a tally, scoring 21 goals for Montpellier in his final year in France.

Strengths: The defence is very good against most teams with a great mixture of pace, positioning and ariel ability from Mertesacker and Koscielny. They are the best team in the country at keeping the ball; Aaron Ramsey and Arteta sitting deep and acting as the pivots, with Tomas Rosicky and Jack Wilshere adding to this superb dribbling skills and in Rosicky's case an eye for goal. Arsenal were the only team last year to have 4 men get double figures in the league, with Theo Walcott, Santi Cazorla, Podolski and Giroud aiming for more of the same in 2013-2014.

Weaknesses: Lack of quality outside the starting XI is exasperated further by the constant fitness problems of many key players and a thin squad. The back 5 are prone to stupid errors and defending at set-pieces is still below par. Struggle to break through teams when they 'park the bus', with only Cazorla and Rosicky a threat from distance. Lack of a truly world class player like Van Persie to get them through games that they otherwise would not win.

Best XI: (4-2-3-1) Szczesny; Sagna, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Monreal; Arteta, Wilshere; Walcott, Rosicky, Cazorla; Giroud.

Aston Villa

Last season: Premier League: 15th F.A. Cup: 4th rnd League Cup: semi final
IN: Aleksandar Tonev (£2.5m, Lech Poznan), Jores Okore (£4m, Nordsjaelland), Leandro Bacuna (undisclosed, FC Groningen), Nicklas Helenius (undisclosed, Aalborg), Antonio Luna (undisclosed, Sevilla), Jed Steer (tribunal, Norwich).
OUT: Jean Makoun (released), Eric Lichaj (Nottingham Forest, free), Richard Dunne (free, QPR), Darren Bent (Fulham, loan), Nathan Delfouneso (Blackpool, loan).

Paul Lambert took a big risk leaving Norwich in 2012, giving up his guaranteed job for a potential poisoned chalice in a Villa side that had finished in 16th under Alex McLeish. It seemed as if he had made a terrible mistake with Villa hovering over the drop zone at Christmas time, being defeated 8-0 by Chelsea on one terrible day. Lambert's faith in young players was ridiculed as a defence without Dunne or injured Ron Vlaar began to leak goals.

But Lambert had faith and results began to turn around. The embarrassing two legged defeat to League Two outfit Bradford signalled the nadir; But then there were shoots of recovery as Villa's young squad began to demonstrate their talent. A fluid front three of Gabriel Agbonlahor, Andreas Weimann and the wonderful Christian Benteke scored goals for fun during the spring.

Towards the back end of last season Lambert’s side improved and Benteke was unplayable. This season, should they pick up where they left off, they can hope for more than a relegation scrap. Lambert has been shrewd in the market too- this is no longer the same Villa as a few years ago, when millions would be wasted by Martin O'Neill on average players like Curtis Davies and Nigel Reo-Coker. Randy Lerner understandably is unwilling to be so loose with the purse strings again so now the most extravagant buy is likely to be Jores Okore, a talented Danish international bought for £4 million. Much of the summer's potential drama was resolved quickly with an improved contract for Benteke. But the 19 goal Belgium striker is not the only success story from last year, with both Matt Lowton and Ashley Westwood improving hugely over the course of the season.

There is still a question over whether Lambert would have been better off with the senior players from the off. Lambert seemed to be reluctant to use Darren Bent, Charles N'Zogbia and Stephen Ireland and results suffered. How will the young players react now? Villa do look to have enough goals in them to be out of the relegation dogfight, but will not trouble the top 10. The Holte End will hope for another cup run.

Key Player: Benteke. Keeping hold of the £30 million rated striker was vital for Aston Villa's immediate future. He may think himself above Aston Villa but the team is built for him and he will be chasing that centre forward spot for Belgium's 2014 World Cup XI.

Strengths: The three attackers Agbonlahor, Weimann and Benteke are full of pace, power, guile and goals. Westwood and Delph are great users off the ball and Guzan is one of the best keepers in the division. Lowton and new boy Luna provide attacking threat from full back.

Weaknesses: The defence leaks goals, with Baker and Bennett just not good enough yet. Still not enough experience in the side. Don't have a good midfield enforcer, and are incredibly reliant on Benteke for goals and inspiration.

Best XI: (4-3-3) Guzan; Lowton, Okore, Vlaar, Luna; Westwood, Delph, Banann; Agbonlahor, Benteke, Weimann.

Cardiff

Last season: Championship: 1st F.A. Cup: 3rd rnd League Cup: 1st rnd
IN: Andreas Cornelius (£7.5m, FC Copenhagen), John Brayford (£2m, Derby), Simon Moore (undisclosed, Brentford), Steven Caulker (£8m, Tottenham), Gary Medel (£11.2m, Sevilla).
OUT: Stephen McPhail, Heidar Helguson, Nat Jarvis (all released), Elliot Parish (free, Bristol City).

Finally, they did it. After years of play-off failure Cardiff finally joined their deadly rivals Swansea in the Premier League, and they did it in style as champions. Malky Mackay must take a huge slice of the credit as under his management Cardiff have been in a League Cup final (only losing on penalties) and then promoted in successive seasons. His motivational skills and tactical nous will see him move on from Cardiff soon, but for now he will be looking to survive in the top flight at the first attempt, backed well by the clubs Malaysian owners.

The fans are not happy with the red kit but many have been forced to keep quiet as Cardiff, bankrolled by the money, played some scintillating stuff on their way to promotion. The summer has seen Vincent Tan back Mackay further with some lavish spending. In a bid to address a lack of goals- no player scored more than 8 league goals last term- the Scot spent £7.5 million on Danish striker Andreas Cornelius, a man with just one top flight season under his belt. Better use of cash was to follow though, with the superb buy of  England international Steven Caulker. How they convinced him to come to Wales is a mystery, but he is a top player and will no doubt stand out in a team that already boasts quality defenders.

Further cash was spent on Gary Medel, Seville's defensive midfielder. Cardiff's record signing will certainly give them a touch of class but the Chilean is prone to going batsh*t mental to a red card or three so questions marks must be raised about the wisdom of paying more than £11 million for him. But he is exactly the player that Cardiff need, as last season they were spoilt for choice in terms of more positive midfielders and widemen, with Craig Noone, Kim Bo-Kyung, Aron Gunnarsson, Peter Whittingham, Jordan Mutch and Cardiff's most high profile player, Craig Bellamy, all playing a significant role in promotion.

Key Player: Mark Hudson. A true leader at the heart of the defence, and is easily capable of making the step up to the top flight. Comfortable on the ball, extremely strong in the air, and an excellent communicator, he will relish taking on the likes of Van Persie and Aguero this season.

Strengths: Their defence. Cardiff kept 18 clean sheets in the Championship last season and have a host of players who look good too make the step up. Hudson, new signing Brayford, ex- Middlesbrough man Andrew Taylor and Matthew Connolly all look ready. The aforementioned host of attacking midfielders will make Cardiff a threat from range and will see them create chances.

Weaknesses: Converting Chances. Goals were shared around last season but no one got more than 8. Bellamy may still have his pace and trickery but he only netted four last season. Cornelius is talented but to get the best out of him Cardiff may have to play long ball which they are unaccustomed to. The hope is that Frazier Campbell will be the main goal scorer, after an impressive seven goals in just 12 games after arriving in January from Sunderland, but he has injury problems. Lacked a holding player too last season, but Medel may sort that out.

Best XI: (4-5-1) Marshall; Brayford, Hudson, Caulker, Taylor; Noone, Kim, Medel, Whittingham, Bellamy; Campbell.

Thanks for reading, Adam.

Champions League reaction- Arsenal 1-3 Bayern Munich, and Man Utd 1-2 Real Madrid (2-3 agg.)

Despite a valiant effort in the second half, Arsenal proved how far behind they are the elite of European football. They are streets behind, and this result just proved it.
Jack Wilshere wailed at the full time whistle as Arsenal's hopes all but ended at the Emirates. Arsenal were ripped apart in the first half by a fantastic display of urgency and forward thinking by the Bayern front 6.  In particular, Javi Martinez proved why Bayern spent north of £30m on him, Muller ran at the flimsy Arsenal back four, Schweinsteiger, as usual, personified calmness in the middle of the park, and the resourceful Kroos scored a cracking goal.
There were no passengers for Bayern, unlike Theo Walcott, one of the most effective wingers in the Premier League this year, stationed up front despite Van Buyten and Dante towering over him. Lukas Podolski also failed to turn up against his old side.
Nevertheless, Wilshere’s display featured all of the traits that we have come to enjoy: the deceptive acceleration, the vision and the urgency in possession. Wilshere was supported by Arteta and Aaron Ramsey, decent players but, unlike him, not of Champions League calibre. Tomas Rosicky showed when he came on that he can still take control of a game and direct play with pace and incisive passing, and he's a much better like-for-like replacement for Wilshere than Diaby or Ramsey can ever be.
Wenger was perhaps resigned to going out when he spoke to the media later on.
“Look, we’ll have two battles. But maybe the easier battle will be to be back into the Champions League. We have to give everything to try to change things in the second leg. We have to try to make the impossible possible. Let’s not hide the truth. It will be extremely difficult against a team of that quality. They didn’t play two finals in the last three years without that quality. We have to give our best and hope we have built our confidence up a bit more, because that belief will be needed.” Arsene Wenger.
Do Arsenal have any hope of qualifying now? I don't think so, but i would hope they at least have a go and pick an offensive side. What is the point of qualifying for the knockout stages 14 years in a row or whatever when Arsenal haven't been to the semi's since 2009, and got walloped by Man United?

Speaking of whom...
United gave as good as they got in a valiant effort against the most expensively assembled team in the world. It was an enthralling clash that, as Mourinho predicted, the world stopped to watch. The match will unfortunately be remembered for a nonsensical refereeing decision, which swung the pendulum in Real's favour.
United found themselves down to 10 men after an hour when Nani was sent off following a bizarre decision from Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir, who penalised the winger for a high foot when the Portuguese international was legitimately challenging for the ball.
It was blatantly obvious that Nani was rising to pull the ball out of the sky, Yes, there was contact but it's a contact sport! Nani's control would have been spot on had Arbeloa not jumped in, and gone down like he'd been shot.
Nani's challenge was unintentional--he never saw Arbeloa. I can't believe the amount of people that are defending the ref's decision in tonight's game. In order to refute such nonsense ask yourself this question: what if the ref had just booked him? If he had made the correct decision, you can bet that none of the Real players would have been up in arms, crying about the injustice of it all and how it was a clear red; they'd have just got on with the game. Everyone looked surprised when the red came out. 
Until the red card United were the better team, and had Nani stayed on, I'm not so sure Madrid would have come away with a win. Sir Alex got the tactics spot on, and until the woeful red card, United had the better chances, willingly conceding possession. His leaving out of Wayne Rooney was 100% correct, as United had the perfect tactical set up before the ref's mental moment.
Danny Welbeck really did step up to the plate. He tracked Xabi Alonso's every move, following Mario Gotze's example and completely nullifying the former Liverpool playmaker. This stifled Madrid somewhat and it was no wonder they failed to create many chances in the first 50-odd minutes.
Welbeck, Cleverley and Rafael all looked at home at this level. Tactically, technically and mentally they all applied themselves well, and looked equal to the occasion and their opponents.
Indeed, it was the player with the biggest reputation for United- Robin Van Persie- who was probably their biggest flop over the two legs. Remember the chance he hit wide in the dying minuites of the game in Madrid, the awful mishit in the same game, or his two missed chances in this match. He was brought in to make a difference in Europe, not the League (United got 89 points last year, their league form was fine) and the Dutchman failed.
Ryan Giggs was absolutely phenomenal. It was remarkable that he was the most energetic and willing player on the pitch considering that Ronaldo, Ozil, Di Maria, Higuain, Rooney and Kaka were all playing. He chased every cause down and barely put a foot wrong. Which makes it more of a travesty that he's had another opportunity at the Champions League snatched away from him.
On one level, you could make a legitamate argument that Ronaldo, and Ronaldo alone, was the difference in this tie. Had he played for United, I would have expected the results to have been reversed- he wasn't special in either game, but scored two vital goals.
Otherwise, both teams looked relatively well matched. De Gea and Lopez both excelled away from home, both sets of strikers failed to make an impact,  and even with ten men Utd had a number of genuine chances- none more gilt edged than Vidic's header from six yards that Diego Lopez somehow got to. Real have found a real defender in Varane though.
Rooney's display when he eventually got introduced to the game was average- culminating in blasting over a chance from inside the area that he really should have at least tested the goalkeeper with. I have to admit I was more than a little shocked by Fergie's team selection, but it was, as ever, fully justified by the great performances from Giggs and Welbeck. 
As soon as Nani was dismissed, the tactics were forcibly shaken up and the shackles came off Alonso. Modric's arrival exploited the advantage and Madrid dominated for a lengthy spell- but to be fair, United didn't have a defensive player on the bench to bring on to stem the flow.
The Old Trafford crowd was magnificent. It tends to be quite flat there, apart from the Stretford End, but that was tremendous throughout the game and all over the ground.
Rooney doesn't get picked for a big game...everyone goes batsh*t about it....I don't understand what all the hysteria is about. Rooney was awful in the first leg so he( quite rightly) was dropped for the second leg. Am I missing something here?
Wayne Rooney’s omission from the starting line-up was just a judgement call which was more than justified by Danny Welbeck’s performance on the night.
Overall, Sir Alex's dream of a third European Cup remains out of his reach for now. The good news for the Old Trafford faithful is they more than matched the team who remain probably the second best club team in the world, and also still have a Double in their sights. Mourinho's job lies on this trophy, but on this evidence, it'll take some team to beat Bayern.

Thanks for reading, Adam.

Premier League half time report.

It is just past the half way point in the Premier League as we are right in the middle of the brilliant Christmas period where the games come thick and fast. As such, it is probably around this time when managers will sit down with their staff and review the games that have gone, and look to dip into the transfer window to improve their squad and get rid of the deadwood. So here is my review of the current top six. What, so no Liverpool? Exactly.

Manchester United- Season so far: Pretty good really, top of the league, 7 points clear, beaten Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Man City, but the defence is worrying. They have conceded more goals than Swansea, West Ham, and Sunderland, and Sir Alex Ferguson still doesn't really know his best team. Overall though, there is every chance of a 20th league title.
Star so far: Robin Van Persie. Who else? Has single handedly grabbed points for United this season, and is truly world class. Has also performed against all the top teams (scored in all the aforementioned victories).
Flop so far: Paul Scholes. It is quite hard to say, but it does seem his time is up. He has barely started any games this season, and the team haven't exactly struggled when he has been left out. Only twice this season, in the comeback at Southampton and the home defeat against Spurs has Scholes performed like he used to. Still, his standing amongst Reds is quite untarnishable. That's not really a word, but it's fitting for a player who may have the wrong decision playing on this season, but will always be adored at Old Trafford.  
January signings? The world class players who could make a difference in Europe are unavailable in January. Would make do with getting Vidic back fit. Kevin Strootman, Thiago Alcantara, and other similar high profile midfielders will be targets in the summer.

Manchester City- Season so far: A few too many draws, but overall a solid championship defence so far. The real issue has been in Europe, where City only picked up a measly 3 points in their group and didn't even get a Europa League spot. Roberto Mancini will probably need to win the league or the FA cup to satisfy the owners, and keep his job.
Star so far: Yaya Toure.  City's midfield enforcer has scored 6 valuable goals, as well as chipping in regularly with assists. Also one of the few City players to turn up in the Champions League. How will city cope without him in January?
Flop so far: Mario Balotelli. The dynamic forward has repaid Mancini's faith with a huge haul of 1 league goal this season. Also tried to take his own club to a tribunal- how much longer will Balotelli be indulged?
January signings? There have been rumours regarding Daniele De Rossi but it is unlikely City will be massive spenders in January. However, cover at centre back is a possibility.  

Chelsea- Season so far: The sacking of Di Matteo is what it will be remembered by, as well as, for the first time since the takeover of Abramovich, Chelsea failing to make it past the group stages in the CL. However, Chelsea made a decent start and are in pole position for the League Cup. Benitez has also successfully tightened up the defence- for now. Still in the title race.
Star so far: Juan Mata has been a giant for Chelsea this campaign, returning from the international break in September refreshed and has been inspirational since Benitez has come in. My player of the season so far, with an eye for goal and superb at creating space.
Flop so far: Roberto Di Matteo. The holders of the CL have never got knocked out so quickly the next year. Seeing Chelsea's performances since his sacking, some of his 'tactics' were remarkably bad- for example, not playing the club's best centre back at centre back (Ivanovic), the refusal to acknowledge that Oscar, Mata, and Hazard clearly occupy the same space (Benitez has very rarely played all 3) and his complete failure to get Torres playing well.
January signings? Daniel Sturridge is on his way to Liverpool, and a replacement striker is what is needed. Falcao will have to wait till the summer at least, same with fellow South American Edinson Cavani, and Lukaku has expressed a wish to remain at West Brom, so Chelsea may look to Demba Ba or even Theo Walcott. Bodies in midfield are also at a premium, with Romeu injured, Lampard's future uncertain and Mikel in South Africa. Fellaini is likely to leave Everton if any club can stump up £18 million or so, could a deal be done there?

Tottenham- Season so far: So far, so good, for Spurs's new manager. Despite the media's best efforts, Villas-Boas has done very well and Tottenham are even outside bets for the title, according to Sandro. But top 4 will do nicely this year. AVB has dealt well with the impact of losing their two best players of 11/12, Modric and Van der Vaart, and are even taking the Europa League seriously
Stars so far: Jermain Defoe/Gareth Bale. Defoe is enjoying a new lease of life away from the bench, equally effective up front on his own or with Adebayor, he has 14 goals in all comps this season. As for Bale, the welsh winger is capable of changing a game in an instant, and the occasional dive hasn't blinded me or most other observers to the fact that he is probably the most exciting player to watch in England. Already has got 9 league goals from the left.
Flop so far: Clint Dempsey- Only 3 goals? And what position does he play anyway? Despite Tottenham's good results, Van der Vaart is still a big miss and Sigurdsson is not the answer. Honourable mentions to Adebayor for his lack of goals, and William Gallas for some inept challenges.
January signings? Joao Moutinho was close to joining in August and Spurs might try again. Need to shift some deadwood, with Dawson presumably on his way. Could recall Danny Rose from Sunderland to add depth. But with Parker and Assou-Ekotto on their way back from the treatment room, Spurs are unlikely to really push the boat out. Have reportedly agreed to take Lewis Holtby from Schalke in the summer and he could be the replacement for Van der Vaart I keep mentioning they need.

Arsenal-Season so far: Have apparently been in about 5 different states of crisis, but actually have made an okay start, with a few rubbish results (like the embarrassing defeat to Bradford). Cazorla and Podolski have been excellent acquisitions, and only Stoke, City and Chelsea have conceded less than them.
Star so far: Santi Cazorla has scored and assisted 7 goals in the premier league, and has been another great addition to the best passing side in the league.
Flop so far: Andre Santos wins because of some truly awful displays, but Thomas Vermaelen has cost Arsenal goals, Ramsey's development has stalled, and Chamakh's zero appearances in the league is probably still too many.
January signings? The Gunners really need another forward, although David Villa won't exactly be excited by moving to the Emirates, and Arsenal may need to look into players like Zaha of Palace instead. An experienced keeper is possible with Reina not happy at Liverpool, and about 6 new medical specialists as well to get that injury prone cun Abou Diaby on the pitch more often. A new left back is a possibility with the perennially injured Gibbs proving to be dodgy fitness wise once more.

Everton-Season so far: Terrific, as for once, have complimented an excellent second half of a  previous season with a great start. Everton have beaten Man United and Spurs at home, and have only lost thrice. Everton's net spend since 2002/03 is 13.9m, whereas Liverpool's for example, has been 173.8m. David Moyes has probably been the manager of 2012, and this is his best chance to get Everton back in the top four. If he doesn't he must be considering just how long he can stay on Merseyside.
Star so far: Marouane Fellaini has led the charge with 8 goals, the Belgian notching against United, Arsenal, and Man City. With an enforced winter break thanks to his headbutt of Shawcross, expect him to continue his form in 2013. Honourable mentions to Tim Howard, Leighton Baines and Leon Osman for consistency, and Pienaar for providing the touch of class.
Flop so far: Bill Kenwright: He may be a fan, but knowing Everton's excellent performances following the arrival of Jelavic, Gibson and Pienaar in January 2012, he should of backed Moyes with money in the summer. Naismith and Hitzelsberger were free transfers, and although Kevin Mirallas cost 6m, all of that was payed for by 15m Jack Rodwell's sale to Man City. The big question as regards to Everton's future as a long term top tier side will remain with Kenwright's ability to find a competent owner.
January signings? A loan signing for Lescott or Scott Sinclair seems the limit for the Toffees, unless some of the Rodwell money is made available. Far more important is to keep hold of their own best players.

Writing that was a lot quicker than I thought it was going to take! Let's all hope for a thrilling second half of the season, I for one want to see a brilliant fight for the title and expect quality in the Champions League. 2012 was a superb football year, can 2013 top it?
Thanks for reading, Adam