Armchairstato.com: London 2012 - Week 1

Armchairstato.com: London 2012 - Week 1: Well after all the hype, expense and rumour, the Olympics are here and what a week it has been. Before the opening ceremony, with the North...

London 2012 - Week 1

Well after all the hype, expense and rumour, the Olympics are here and what a week it has been. Before the opening ceremony, with the North Korea/South Korea flag fiasco and the printing errors claiming Joe Allen was an English footballer, I really worried that the opening ceremony would be filled with disaster. Maybe for once I was wrong to doubt the nation. Right from the off with the four corners of the kingdom singing their choirs, through the industrial revolution, from the queen 'jumping out of a helicopter' with James Bond to Mr Bean's involvment in Chariots of fire, right up to the very modern and impressive Olympic flame, I was very impressed. After all the fireworks had died and the events got under way, one thing started to become clear. It dawned on me during the men's road race in the cycling. Our nation is despised greatly throughout the world. Other countries seem to have a mentality of it doesn't matter who wins as long as it isn't the British. So that said I was surprised considering the quality of the team that the cyclists couldn't get Mark Cavendish a medal but it made it obvious how hard it was going to be for out team to even get close to the success of Beijing. A week on and we have gained a credible medal in the ladies road cycle race, a slightly disappointing medal from Becky Adlington, a medal in equestrian, a brilliant if some what unlucky bronze from the men in the team gymnastics competition, 3 decent medals from the rowing lakes including a first ever Gold from a British female boat, a somewhat surprise medal from the swimming pool and a first and third in the men's time trial. I might be doing a dis-service but I would of expected a few more medals by now though. As we close week 1 and look forward, we see the entrance of the track cycling, the conclusion of the sailing events, some prospective swimming finals and the track and field athletes set to take to the stage. I do think at this stage that Team GB's medal target does seem a little out of reach but it only takes a few days of sporting excellence to change all that. For example maybe 5 medals from sailing, a woman's football medal, 3 swimming medals, near 10 cycling medals and 5 to 10 athletics medals will only leave the target short by a little.

World Championship Snooker

This weekend sees the start of the World Snooker Championship. Below I shall try to pick through the early rounds of the draw and rate the players chances. John Higgins starts off against Liang Wenbo, a crucible favourite after his debut performances. A tough test for the Scot but one his matchplay should see him overcome. The winner of that will face Stuart Bingham or Stephen Hendry. Hendry had to qualify for this years Championships but now he has, who would bet against him. It won't be easy as Bingham has seen a rise in form but I think Hendry's craft should just see him get through. A tough first round match sees Graeme Dott take on Joe Perry. Both players are capable of long runs in the Worlds and this match is simply to close to call. It has the makings of a last frame decider. Whoever wins that will face the winner of Stephen Maguire or Luca Brecel. The Belgian won't be overawed by the crucible crowd but I think Maguire shuld win this match up. Shaun Murphy takes on Jamie Jones. Admittedly I don't know to much about Jones and he may falter under the crucible atmosphere. I'm picking Murphy to win that match. The winner will take on Stephen Lee or Andrew Higginson. This is hardly going to be a quick fire match but I think Stephen Lee will win this one. Ali Carter takes on Mark Davies. Carter should have enough to win this match as long as he keeps his emotions in check. The winner will face Judd Trump or Dominic Dale. You have to feel sorry for Dale with his luck in first round opponents. Trump will win this match. That is the easier half of the draw in my opinion. Potential quarter finals are; Higgins/Wenbo or Bingham/Hendry v Dott/Perry or Maguire and the other quarter final being Murphy or Lee v Carter or Trump In the bottom half of the draw Mark Williams takes on Liu Chuang. A potentially tricky encounter but I think Williams will come through. The winner of that faces Ronnie O'Sullivan or Peter Ebdon. O'Sullivan can either be brilliant or terrible and we won't know which until that first frame. If he is prepared to fight then I'll pick him to win. Martin Gould takes on David Gilbert. Gould's recent experiences will see him overcome Gilbert I think. The winner will face the winner of arguably the tie of the round in Neil Robertson and Ken Doherty. Which Doherty will turn up. I expect a cracking match and unfortunately for the neutrals, I think Robertson will win this. Ding Junhui opens up with a tough match against Ryan Day. If there is to be a shock in round one then this could be the tie. I think a tough game will be decider again by a frame or two. The winner of that finds Mark Allen or Cao Yupeng waiting. I think the frustrated Irishman will see off his Chinese competitor to set up another intriguing tie. Matthew Stevens faces a tough Marco Fu in the first round. Another match that is to tough to call and either player will just be happy to get through. The winner will face Mark Selby or Barry Hawkins. While Hawkins possesses the game to frustrate most players, in Selby he is against the best all round player. I think Selby will win that one. So the potential quarter finals in the bottom half are; Williams or O'Sullivan/Ebdon v Robertson and Ding Junhui/Day and Allen v Stevens/Fu and Selby Nearly time to sit back and simply enjoy the drama as it unfolds.

Spineless FA

Yesterday saw yet more evidence of the FA and their lack of ability to get the basic decisions correct. This season has seen the Luiz Suarez affair handled all wrong, even if in some quarters the right result was reached. The discrepancies in that scenario were how the whole case was carried out. Then we reached the John Terry affair. That isn't a metaphor for him and another players wife. Of course I'm referring to the Terry vs Anton Ferdinand race row which the FA bravely and conveniently put off until after the Euro's. The thinking behind this I can only assume was to keep a player undeserving of his stature as England captain, in that very position. That fiasco saw the end of Fabio Capello after the FA refused to bow down to his demands and we eventually thought the FA finally had some balls. But we were wrong. They bungled their way around appointing a successor by refusing to name or approach the man they wanted and leaving a prime candidate in the middle of a media frenzy. So just what is the FA's latest show of weakness. Well firstly not handing out a retrospective additional ban for Mario Balotelli's shameful tackle on Alex Song during the match between Arsenal and Manchester City. Anyone with a degree of common sense saw just how much damage such a tackle could have left the young Arsenal star. It was the FA's chance to make an example not of the player but of the challenge. The FA also bottled the decision not to reduce Shaun Derry's red card which he received for his 'foul' on Ashley Young. The fact that Young was offside, that contact was minimal wasn't enough to persuade the FA to reduce the one match ban. Now I am not going to slate the referees. Early in the season I wrote an article not blaming referees but their assistants. The Young decision started from a linesman error. What about the 2 Chelsea goals in the Wigan match. Or the QPR goal that never was. The referees are stuck in the firing line when it is their so called assistants that are causing the problems. These are not marginal calls like the 1966 World Cup final. They are clear to the naked eye. So we go back to the FA. There is not a match in England that is not covered by some form of broadcaster. Therefore there is a camera at nigh on every match. In my view the FA needs to show some balls and introduce a referral system. Each team gets say 1 referral to an official with replay facilities. Whether he is in the stadium or outside in a broadcast truck but you don't physically see the third umpire in cricket yet you see his decisions. As long as you limit the amount of time the referrals take is it really going to slow the game up to much. When you have matches that have 6 or 7 minutes of injury time as it is. So I call the FA for once to show some spine, show us the FA have balls and make our FA an association to be proud of once again. Try test runs in next seasons Carling Cup. One video referral per side with a limit of say a minute to 2 minutes. The equiptment is in place, it only needs a man, a TV screen and a replay or two. Written by Wesley Hillier @armchairstato.blogspot.com

Armchairstato.com: Which managers will be at their clubs next season?...

Armchairstato.com: Which managers will be at their clubs next season?...: Usually all the talk towards the end of a Premier League season is which players are moving where. However this seaason I think it could be ...

Which managers will be at their clubs next season?

Usually all the talk towards the end of a Premier League season is which players are moving where. However this seaason I think it could be one that sees the biggest movement in managers. Arsene Wenger continues to defy what is possible when you concentrate on youth but even the great man knows you need a sprinkle of experience in any successful side. Should Robin van Persie leave this summer and Jose Mourinho leave Real Madrid then Wenger might find that challenge to much to turn down should the Spanish giants come calling. Alex McLeish hasn't won over the Villa Park faithful. Financial constraints, key injuries and the recent news surrounding club captain "Stan" Petrov, have all conspired against him this season. All these things cannot overshadow that Aston Villa are a weekend or two away from being sucked into the relegation dog fight and at the moment other teams down there are in better form. It wouldn't surprise me if McLeish was replaced before next season. Some may think I have launched a season long attack on Steve Kean but nothing could be further from the truth. I just don't like the man. How anyone, even his deluded self can say Blackburn are in a better position than when Sam Allardyce was unceremoniously replaced at Ewood Park. The longer the season has gone on the more it seems it's about him and not the team. Granted a couple of decent results have made an average manager look better than he is but with 7 games to go his team still sit in the relegation zone. Maybe it's incriminating photographs he has of the owners or something but I really hope my Match of the Day viewing is minus Steve Kean next season. Owen Coyle is a popular man and he has galvanised his squad since the Fabrice Muamba ordeal. The biggest surprise to me is that Bolton find themselves in trouble in the first place. I think they will get out of it and Coyle is one manager who will be at the same club next season. Has Roberto Di Matteo really performed wonders in his brief spell in charge? He has won one decisive game, the second leg against Napoli. The FA Cup tie against Birmingham was a match they should of won anyway. I've no doubt they probably will beat Benfica in the Champions League but will they beat Barcelona? I've my doubts as to whether or not they will even beat Tottenham in the FA Cup semi final. Di Matteo might start next season but I don't see him lasting a whole campaign. David Moyes has to be the most under appreciated manager over the last 10 years. Not only does he manage to survive on a limited budget but he also has a good record of bringing players through from lower divisions. He is also a loyal man and unless a really big top 4 or 5 job came up then he will be there again defying the odds at Goodison Park. Martin Jol has enjoyed a decent season. Yes Fulham are flirting down the wrong end of the table but have enough quality not to be sucked into the mire. Keeping hold of the likes of Clint Dempsey and Brede Hangeland will be his toughest test over the summer but I expect Jol to still be at Craven Cottage next season. Kenny Dalgleish's time at Liverpool is up. I was sickened by his orchestration in ridding Anfield of Roy Hodgson and it appears Dalgleish actually isn't any better. His transfer signings have all been unimpressive on the whole and his attitude to the media is disrespectful. He leaves a bad taste in many neutrals mouths and although he will see out the season, he won't be there next year. Roberto Mancini is clearly showing signs of the pressure at Manchester City. He and his team were very public around Christmas saying the title was a foregone conclusion. They didn't count on teams raising their performance against them and in actual fact are lucky to be only 5 points off the top. Mancini is also struggling to keep the dressing room happy with all the egos and the self imploding Mario Balotelli is doing more harm than good at the Etihad. It looks likely for all the outlay pre-season that Manchester City could end the season without a trophy. That's the same team that crowed about winning 4 trophies this season. I don't expect Mancini to be managing in England next season. Sir Alex Ferguson looks like possibly winning his greatest league title. His youngsters have risen to the challenge and have overhauled Man City and don't look like capitulating like their noisy neighbours. Will Ferguson want one final attempt at Champions League glory. Or will he hand over the reigns to a younger man. Could Mourinho or Moyes be ready to fill Sir Alex's shoes. Is the great man ready to give it all up yet. I think we will see one more season from him. Alan Pardew as I have continually maintained deserves recognition for where he has taken Newcastle. An unpopular choice when appointed, he now lives a god like status amongst the St. James Park faithful. They deserve a run in next seasons Europa League and regardless how their season finishes, Pardew will still be their manager next season. Paul Lambert is the first of two highly respected newcomer managers in the league this year. His Norwich team are quite attractive to watch and he has built a real team ethic there. Obviously the second season is the test for newly promoted clubs but Lambert will still be Norwich manager. Mark Hughes doesn't come across as a Championship manager. Queens Park Rangers have home matches against Swansea, Tottenham and Stoke which they have to win. An away match at West Brom is a game where there are points to be played for. They also have away matches against Man United, Man City and Chelsea. If Hughes can achieve 3 or 4 wins and nick a draw here or there they might just be safe. I'd like to think if QPR did go down he would stay and bring them back up. I think Hughes will stay there and rebuild his reputation. Unless the unthinkable happens and the FA offer Tony Pulis the England managers job, he is another who will stay in charge of Stoke next season. Infact I think the only job he would seriously consider leaving the Britannia for is the Welsh National Team. Martin O'Neill is another manager who will start next season at Sunderland. He has worked wonders there since taking over and with a little cash to spend next season could really push for a European position. Brendan Rodgers is another manager who is safe with his job. He has put together an impressive side and keeping hold of them all will be a test. Also the second season syndrome will be interesting but he won't change his ethics and Swansea are another decent team to watch. Harry Redknapp will stay at Tottenham if they secure Champions League football I believe. Why would he want to give up one of the most exciting teams we have seen and swap it for the drudgery of the England managers job. However if Tottenham do lose out then he might be tempted to have a crack at the Euros but I don't think Redknapp is a long term candidate. I expect him to still be Tottenham manager next season. Roy Hodgson is a manager I have respected over many years. He seems to do well wherever he goes and I still maintain he wasn't given a fair crack at Liverpool. He had a want away Fernando Torres and some of his signings have since been sold to improve rival teams. West Brom won't want him to leave and I don't see him doing so. Roberto Martinez has had an aura about him all season that has suggested if Wigan did get relegated he would stick by them. That wasn't a negative approach, just realism as to how much a fight it was going to be this season. It won't be easy with Wigan facing 4 out of the top 6 before now and the end of the season but I think Martinez will stay regardless. Terry Connor is one who will be gone. I don't see anyway for Wolves to survive and the heirarchy must be regretting allowing Mick McCarthy to leave. It will be hard to see Wolves bouncing back but I do think Connor won't be given the chance to try. Written by Wesley Hillier @armchairstato.blogspot.com

Armchairstato.com: US Masters contenders

Armchairstato.com: US Masters contenders: It's the weekend that always makes me think that spring is here. Watching the climax to a great weekends golfing action on the world best go...

US Masters contenders

It's the weekend that always makes me think that spring is here. Watching the climax to a great weekends golfing action on the world best golf course. And the worlds best golfers will all be trying to win the coverted green jacket. After having a brief look at the odds this morning and the bookmakers have made Tiger Woods 9/2 and Rory McIlroy 6/1 the clear favourites. However I flicked further down the list and have picked out a few decent worthy bets. However shop around for where the best place to put your bet on is as some outlets only offer 4th place and ties but I know Paddy Power offer as far down as 6th. Luke Donald is 14/1 and a worthwhile £2 each way bet. The rest of the golfers names I'll list are all worth a £1 each way. Lee Westwood is 20/1 Hunter Mahan is 28/1 Keegan Bradley is 30/1 Jason Day is 40/1 Sergio Garcia and Dustin Johnson are both 50/1 Webb Simpson, Graeme McDowell and KJ Choi are all 66/1 Martin Kaymer is 70/1 Angel Cabrera is 80/1 Rickie Fowler is 100/1 Some surprising odds see Paul Casey and Y E Yang at 125/1 and Stewart Cink at 200/1 and Miguel Angel Jimenez 250/1 Also it seems at Augusta a former champ always seems to feature. So the likes of Fred Couples are a mere 125/1, Vijay Singh 200/1 and Jose Maria Olazábal 400/1 So where will my money be going this weekend. McIlroy could be worth £5 to win and I hope he does but I usually pick out 5 golfers further down the field and do them £1 each way making an weekends pleasurable golf with a minor £10 outlay. I think Jason Day, Dustin Johnson, KJ Choi, Hunter Mahan and an outsider paul Casey could be the ones I'd go with.

Armchairstato.com: Who should be the next England manager?

Armchairstato.com: Who should be the next England manager?: Since Fabio Capello resigned as England manger earlier this year, speculation as to who his replacement should be has reached fever pitch. ...

Who should be the next England manager?

Since Fabio Capello resigned as England manger earlier this year, speculation as to who his replacement should be has reached fever pitch.

In the eyes of the media there seems to be just one man for the job. That's the same media ready and waiting to knock the next candidate down.

Harry Redknapp is a very respected manager in England. His man management skills are well documented but there a two factors which should be considered. Firstly his age doesn't mean he is a real long term option. Secondly, should Tottenham secure a top 4 finish then I think Redknapp will relish another crack at Champions League football.

The other man named of similar age is Roy Hodgson. He is well respected across Europe and has coached and been successful at everywhere he has been. OK his time at Liverpool will be questioned but I feel he wasn't given a fair chance there. Both Hodgson and Redknapp may be slightly to old for the England job.

Now if you consider the next two world cups are in Brazil and Qatar then in all seriousness, I wouldn't expect England to win either. Travel and climate, altitude and heat are all factors to be considered. So if the FA are looking for longevity then their next manager should be someone who ideally will be around managing in 2022.

I don't subscribe to the idea the next manager has to be English but certainly British. So who are the candidates.

David Moyes continues to defy the financial constraints at Everton and this season alone finds the club in an FA Cup semi final as well as in the mix for a European place through the league. Moyes also has an uncanny knack of unearthing decent players from lower down the leagues. My only concern would be whether or not Moyes has experienced pressure situations and whether or not a top 4 or 5 club will come calling in the summer.

Tony Pulis has made Stoke one of the Premier Leagues most feared teams on their day. Near impossible to beat on home soil, they continue to defy the odds in the league and although Stoke did spend in the summer, still possess a 'team' not guaranteed to play for many premier league teams. People may raise doubts over a proud Welshman managing the England team and maybe that is why he hasn't been mentioned.

Alan Pardew still remains a candidate for manager of the season in my view. Allowing Kevin Nolan, Joey Barton, Andy Carroll and Jose Enrique to leave and none have gone on to top Newcastle in the table so far. He obviously has an eye for talent as the squad he has assembled proves. The downside to Pardew is the lack of English players in his starting line up.

Chris Hughton has done a minor miracle at Birmingham this season. So long known as an assistant, he left Newcastle through no fault of his own in good shape after an excellent promotion from the championship. He has juggled a squad ripped of it's better players as well as Europa League commitments, which they almost qualified from, and took Chelsea to an FA Cup replay. During all this he has quietly taken Birmingham into the playoff zone and if nothing else deserves recognition.

The other obvious man is Stuart Pearce. He has tournament experience with the U21 team and knows the next generation of England players. If the players are old enough then why not the manager. England can use the next two world cups as experience and focus on the Euro's. Then for 2022, Pearce will still be available for a fair crack at a world cup.

Armchairstato.com: Champions League last 8 draw

Armchairstato.com: Champions League last 8 draw: The draws for the Quarter and semi finals of this seasons Champions League took place today. English side Chelsea take on Portuguese side ...

Champions League last 8 draw

The draws for the Quarter and semi finals of this seasons Champions League took place today.

English side Chelsea take on Portuguese side Benfica and the Stamford Bridge side will fancy their chances against them. I personally think Chelsea would of overcame Napoli with Andre Villas-Boas and his knowledge of the game in Portugal could be a massive loss. Over the two legs you would fancy Chelsea though.

The winners of that Quarter final take on the winners from the AC Milan vs Barcelona tie. Barcelona will be heavy favourites for this tie and with Lionel Messi in record breaking form I see no reason not to predict they will go through to meet Chelsea in a mouth watering semi final.

On the other side of the draw, Real Madrid take on minnows APOEL Nicosia. The Cyprus side have over achieved this season but will surely face Real a test to far. If Real can reproduce their La Liga form then there is only one winner for this tie.

The winners of that Quarter take on the winners of the Marseille vs Bayern Munich tie. Having tipped Bayern all season I can't back down now and they have got the draw they would have preferred. I think they should beat Marseille especially after their home leg demolition of FC basle in the last round.

So I think the semi finals will look like this.

Chelsea vs Barcelona and I think Barcelona will win this.
Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich is a tougher match to predict but I have to say I believe Bayern will just have enough.

Armchairstato.com: Chelsea axe AVB

Armchairstato.com: Chelsea axe AVB: I couldn't believe it today when I read that Chelsea had parted company with manager Andre Villas-Boas. A man that during the summer they pa...

Chelsea axe AVB

I couldn't believe it today when I read that Chelsea had parted company with manager Andre Villas-Boas. A man that during the summer they paid £13.3m just to secure him from his FC Porto contract, finds himself the scapegoat for Chelsea's disastrous fortunes.

Taking over from the sacked Carlo Ancelotti, Villas-Boas inherited an aging squad that needed overhauling and seemed unwilling to conform to his style of doing things. His all conquering Porto exploits suggested he should of been given more time than what he has been allowed.

In my eyes Petr Cech hasn't looked the same keeper since his injury and a more consistent keeper is needed. In a defence that has only had Ashley Cole as an automatic starter and Ivanovic played out of his best position, Chelsea need at least 3 top defenders in the midst of their 20's. Bosingwa, Terry,Ferreira and Luiz are all liabilities. The signing of Gary Cahill is looking a shrewd investment but another centre back and a right back are vital if Chelsea are to challenge for anything next season.

In midfield Lampard may score a few goals but doesn't contribute much else. Like England, Chelsea are losing something trying to accommodate "Fat Frank" in their starting line up. They look a much better outfit with Essien, Meireles, Ramires or Romeu as a three man midfield. Others that need moving on are Mikel, Malouda and Kalou.

Upfront how AVB can be blamed for the stuttering Fernando Torres is beyond me. £50m for a player out of sorts and out of form. Surely it would of been better and cheaper to cut their losses and got rib of the misfiring Spaniard instead of a top young manager. The money they would get would of financed a move for Porto's Hulk.

Roberto di Matteo takes over until the end of the season and has to transfer window to wheel and deal in and will hope to rejuvenate the squad before key FA Cup and Champions League matches.

Whoever is in charge in the summer needs to replace Hilario, Turnball and Cech in goal. Ferreira, Bosingwa, Luiz and an aging Terry in defence. In midfield Lampard, Mikel, Malouda and Kalou can all be relocated. Upfront Torres has to go and a decent replacement for Drogba is required. In my eyes AVB has been unlucky and whoever takes over long term faces exactly the same problems.

Armchairstato.com: World Championship Qualifying Rounds

Armchairstato.com: World Championship Qualifying Rounds: Nothing is guaranteed in coming through the tough qualifying rounds to get to the annual event at Sheffield. Legend John Parrott has enter...

World Championship Qualifying Rounds

Nothing is guaranteed in coming through the tough qualifying rounds to get to the annual event at Sheffield.

Legend John Parrott has entered but faces a potential 4 or 5 matches just to reach the crucible. In his own words, "tough school".

Other players that will be vying for World Championship places are Joe Swail, Steve Davis and Dominic Dale.

Anthony Hamilton and Ken Doherty could meet in the deciding round.

Ricky Waldon faces a qualifying match to make it to Sheffield.

James Wattana and Ryan Day could face a match off.

Stephen Hendry faces the indignity of playing a qualifying match.

Nigel Bond and Tom Ford could meet to decide a place.

Marco Fu is another surprise name in the qualifying round.

Liang Wenbo faces at least two matches to reach Sheffield.

Jimmy White and Jamie Cope could meet in a decider.

Peter Ebdon is another who has to forgo a qualifying match.

Jamie Burnett and Joe Perry could meet in a deciding match.

With the seeded players already drawn a full list of the first round will be here once "Q" school has sorted the wheat from the chaff.

Armchairstato.com: US Masters - Contenders

Armchairstato.com: US Masters - Contenders: The side show this year will be the ongoing European World Number 1 spot. There is every chance it may change hands a few times before we ge...

US Masters - Contenders

The side show this year will be the ongoing European World Number 1 spot. There is every chance it may change hands a few times before we get to the Masters in April. Who are the contenders for this years green jacket?

Well obviously you have the British trio of Luke Donald, Rory McIlroy and Lee Westwood. Then you have the highly consistent Martin Kaymer.

There is a host of American golfers amongst the top 20 in the world including Phil Mickelson, Steve Stricker, Webb Simpson, Dustin Johnson, Hunter Mahan, Bill Haas, Matt Kuchar and Nick Watney.

Other contenders will include Adam Scott, Jason Day, Charl Schwartzel, Graeme McDowell and Sergio Garcia.

Now we get into more fantasy realms. Could Tiger Woods win another major at Augusta? Could a Korean in the shape of K.J.Choi or Y.E.Yang win the green jacket? Can Paul Casey, Justin Rose or Rickie Fowler string 4 good rounds together? Could Retief Goosen, Robert Karlsson or Ian Poulter find a level of consistency?

Can a surprise package in the shape of Darren Clarke, Ernie Els or Vijay Singh rediscover their best form? Could Anthony Kim finally come of age and stun win from outside the worlds top 100?

For more updates follow the US Masters coverage here and the build up over the next month.

Armchairstato.com: England vs Holland review

Armchairstato.com: England vs Holland review: Ok so the result wasn't what we quite wanted but there were plenty of positives from Stuart Pearce's first game in charge of the England sid...

England vs Holland review

Ok so the result wasn't what we quite wanted but there were plenty of positives from Stuart Pearce's first game in charge of the England side.

First the way the team came back from 2-0 down against a very tough Dutch team was a positive and also giving international minutes to a few squad players also benefited the team. Apart from a 3 minute spell in the second half which yielded the two Dutch goals, England were by far the more dangerous team.

Going through Pearce's selection and Joe Hart didn't have a chance with either goal and them aside didn't really have to much to deal with. A rating of 6 is about fair.

Micah Richards showed just why Fabio Capello was unsure of him. Great going forward but lumbering in getting back into position. He is definitely behind a fully fit Kyle Walker now and maybe Glenn Johnson as well. A rating of 5 is based on his overall play, both going forward and defending.

Chris Smalling looked reliable as ever even though he was caught out on the first Dutch goal. An ugly clash of heads during the second finished his night early but this boy looks comfortable at every level. A 6 is a fair rating.

Gary Cahill played ok and tried to show his credentials. I was a little surprised to see him start ahead of Joleon Lescott. However he drove England on and showed he can be a regular for England especially as a replacement for John Terry. A rating of 7 was quite deserving.

Leighton Baines was lucky to start for me. There would of been no criticism had Pearce started with Ashley Cole. Whatever you say about Cole, he is still one of the worlds best left backs. Baines didn't do enough to warrant a start ahead of Cole in the next match but did what you would expect a fringe squad player to do. A generous rating of 6.

Again I was surprised with Adam Johnson starting ahead of Daniel Sturridge or Theo Walcott. Another who didn't do enough to make the English public take notice and you wonder just which way his career will go. A 5 is all I can warrant giving him.

On the other side Ashley Young had a strange night. Starting wide right, then being moved to the second striker role and at times even found himself coming deep to get the ball from the defence. Deserved his goal even if his final ball wasn't up to his usual standards. A average 6 became a 7 on the basis of his "equalising goal".

Scott Parker led by example throughout and flung himself into vital blocks on numerous occasions. He is a good choice of captain in my eyes. He's like a firefighter always there distinguishing danger when needed. A player who leads by example, keeps it simple and lets others do there job. A good all round 7.

Why oh why Gareth Barry started is a mystery. Almost deadwood for Manchester City and somehow he started ahead of his club teammate James Milner. replaced at half time and no real loss. A generous 5.

Steven Gerrard didn't do to much during his 30 minutes. However I think he will go and start the first two games in the Euro's provided he is fit of course. He did link up with Danny Welbeck which was a plus for the England management. A very generous 6.

Danny Welbeck would of surprised many. With his slim build he finds it easy to hold the ball up and link his midfield into play. And for a tall lad his speed is quite amazing. Only a goal lacked from his play but he did enough to warrant perseverance. More service is needed for him but he did himself proud. A 6 could easily of been a 7.

Daniel Sturridge came on after 33 minutes for the ailing Gerrard. What a player he looks. A danger at every opportunity and you have to wonder why he didn't start. A 7 and England's most dangerous player.

James Milner came on for Gareth Barry at half time. Yes he should of started instead of his club mate but didn't influence the game to much. A 6 is all I could give him.

Stewart Downing replaced Johnson for the last half hour. The real surprise is how Downing is even in any England squad. Especially considering the form of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain this year. A 5 and a message to whoever is in charge for the next match not to pick him again.

Phil Jones came on for the unlucky Chris Smalling. Again he wasn't played at centre back but his first time ball set up Ashley Young's goal. A player who maybe should of started. A rating of 6.

Frazier Campbell came on for the last 10 minutes and didn't really do a lot. A goal would of done his cause justice but a rating of 5 is all he had time for.

Theo Walcott came off the bench for the last 2 or 3 minutes. Why didn't he start? again only had time for a rating of 5.

Armchairstato.com: 2012 F1 Preview

Armchairstato.com: 2012 F1 Preview: The new Formula One season is just around the corner. Obviously the biggest change is in the broadcasting rights with the BBC selling off th...

2012 F1 Preview

The new Formula One season is just around the corner. Obviously the biggest change is in the broadcasting rights with the BBC selling off their exclusivity and every race now being shown on Sky. The other significant change comes in the form of the ban on the controversial rear defuser.

With that in mind I thought I'd include a list of the teams and drivers that we will see on this years grid.

In cars 1 and 2 will be Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber. This could be Webber's last season at Red Bull and he will be pushing hard to prove he is more than a number two driver.

Cars 3 and 4 will be Maclaren's Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton. It will annoy Hamilton all season that his teammate has the "team leader" number on his car and he will be out to upstage Button on track at every opportunity.

Cars 5 and 6 are Ferrari's Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa. Massa needs to show he can still drive competitively with the top 5 drivers without crashing people off the road.

Cars 7 and 8 are Mercedes Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg. Schumacher had a strong end to last season to finish above his young teammate. Rosberg will be out to rectify this.

Cars 9 and 10 will be Lotus's Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean. Both are returning F1 drivers and Raikkonen adds a sixth world champion to the grid. He will be looking for podiums as he attempts to push the team forwards.

Cars 11 and 12 are Force India's Paul di Resta and Niko Hulkenberg. Di Resta had a good debut season last year and rightly kept his seat. Will the role of team leader stop him from delivering?

Cars 14 and 15 will be Sauber's Kamui Kobayashi and Sergio Perez. On their day both drivers are capable of spectacular feats and Kobayashi is already a fan favourite.

Cars 16 and 17 are Toro Rosso's Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne. Vergne proved a quick driver in the young drivers test and although a rookie, he will be looking to upstage his teammate

Cars 18 and 19 are the Williams pair of Pastor Maldonado and Bruno Senna. Senna can count himself unlucky not to retain his Lotus seat but he should easily outdo his teammate and probably the limits of the car as well.

Cars 20 and 21 are Caterham's Heikki Kovalainen and Vitaly Petrov. Both will find it hard making an impression from this team but a good inter team scrap could push them further forward as the season unfolds.

Cars 22 and 23 are HRT's Narain Karthikeyan and Pedro de la Rosa. Not sure what to make of this team line up considering some of the drivers not on this seasons grid. If they are not finishing last they will be doing well.

Finally cars 24 and 25 are Marussia's Timo Glock and Charles Pic. This team has finance but that doesn't always guarantee results. Pic is the second rookie on the grid and the jury will be out on him from the start.

Armchairstato.com: Champions League Quarter Finalists

Armchairstato.com: Champions League Quarter Finalists: This weeks international break comes in the middle of the Champions League last 16 matches. That is the last 16 matches that have been stret...

Champions League Quarter Finalists

This weeks international break comes in the middle of the Champions League last 16 matches. That is the last 16 matches that have been stretched out over the best part of a month by the way. Regardless of that, who is looking pretty to make the Quarter Finals of this seasons Champions League.

AC Milan hold a 4-0 lead over Arsenal and even the most optimistic of Arsenal supporters must be thinking that qualification for next seasons tournament is a more likely outcome. Arsenal fans were confident when the draw was originally made but not only were they dealt a footballing lesson by the Italians concerns are sure to of been raised in Robin van Persie's mind to their abilities against Europe's elite.

Barcelona scored 3 away goals against Bayer Leverkusen to lead 3-1 on aggregate and a minor miracle is needed for the Germans to overcome this deficit. The reigning holders do still look the team to beat and of course a lot will depend on who they draw in the next round.

Napoli beat Chelsea 3-1 in their first leg but this is Andre Villas-Boas chance to prove his potential. Not many managers manage to overcome a 2 goal deficit in Champions League knockout matches. There have been some memorable European nights at Stamford Bridge and admittedly Chelsea will need one but I for one wouldn't be surprised if they did make the Quarter Finals.

Real Madrid toiled to a 1-1 draw away to CSKA Moscow. You have to fancy the Spanish giants to get the win and result they need to make the Quarter Finals as Jose Mourinho seeks Champions League success with his 3rd different club.

Mourinho's former employers Inter Milan have a 1-0 defeat to overcome against Marsielle. With home advantage in their second leg you would fancy the Italians but the French side may cause a problem or two. I think Inter Milan will have enough about them.

My personal tip Bayern Munich suffered an away 1-0 defeat to Basle and as Manchester United found, the Swiss are not frightened of any reputations. I think the German giants will end of victorious but you can't see Basle not scoring so that means Bayern realistically need 3 goals.

Lyon won 1-0 at home to surprise package Apoel Nicosia. The Cypriot side will have home advantage in the second leg but Lyon have been in this stage to many times to let their advantage slip. Their last away Champions League match was a 7-1 win by the way.

The final tie is the interestingly poised one featuring Zenit St.Petersburg and Benfica. The Russians won the home tie 3-2 but the Portuguese showed they are a side to fear going forward. A win will see Benfica through and that is where my tip will go to.

On historic value and proverbial paper my 8 qualifiers will be AC Milan, Barcelona, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Benfica and Lyon but that said at least one of those names is going to have an early exit

Armchairstato.com: That time of year

Armchairstato.com: That time of year: We are entering that fun time of year when the sporting world comes to life. We have the Premier League Darts well under way and even at t...

That time of year

We are entering that fun time of year when the sporting world comes to life.

We have the Premier League Darts well under way and even at this early stage you have to say anyone other than an Adrian Lewis or Phil Taylor victory will be an upset.

Then we have the Easter period which sees the Grand National or Grand Lottery as it maybe should be called.

Also around then we have the World Snooker Championships. The likes of Ronnie O'Sullivan, John Higgins, Mark Selby and Mark Williams are all ones to watch. Can Judd Trump find a consistent game to make a run to glory.

We also have the Masters Golf in April. Can Tiger Woods win another major. Or will a European like McIlroy, Westwood or Donald win the green jacket.

Moving on to the summer we have the European Championships and I have tipped Germany to win that and for once I hope my prediction is wrong.

Running from now till the Autumn we have the Formula One Season and Red Bull vs McLaren is the duel. Don't rule Fernando Alonso out of the equation.

And also this year we have the white elephant. The 2012 Olympics from London.

Further coverage on all these events will be available nearer the time.

Armchairstato.com: What fates await Tottenham

Armchairstato.com: What fates await Tottenham: First of all I am going to assume that Harry Redknapp will guide Tottenham into a Champions League qualifying place this season. Then what? ...

What fates await Tottenham

First of all I am going to assume that Harry Redknapp will guide Tottenham into a Champions League qualifying place this season. Then what?

Will he then turn his back on day to day management and take over as England manager. Personally I think it is a poisoned chalice at the moment. With the next two World Cups being held in Brazil and Qatar, England are unlikely to do well in either. That's just realism. And wouldn't Redknapp relish another crack at Champions League football?

So let's assume Redknapp stays what should be his biggest attention areas to his squad. Well strangely that is beyond harry's control. I think the White Hart Lane heirachy should first adjust the wage budgets to allow Redknapp the scope to keep players like Adebayor, bale, Modric and van der Vaart.

They have enough in the goalkeeping departments although none of their keepers are spring chickens. Maybe Gomes will be offloaded somewhere.

Defence is an area that needs an addition or two. Another centre back as well as a two footed full back capable of playing on either side would compliment the players already at the club. Corluka is another who could be on his way out maybe along with Bassong.

In midfield Tottenham don't really need any reinforcements. The question is who is on their way out. Sandro, David Bentley, Steven Pienaar and Jermaine Jenas could all be surplus to requirements as Tottenham look to adjust their wage budget to keep a Champions League squad intact.

Up front I like Adebayor and Louis Saha while I think the decision on Defoe staying will be entirely down to him. I expect Giovani Dos Santos to leave though.

What are your thoughts on this. Comment below

Armchairstato.com: Man City - All conquerors to struggling winners

Armchairstato.com: Man City - All conquerors to struggling winners: Round about October time and nearly every football pundit claimed Manchester City were the runaway winners for all the trophies available to...

Man City - All conquerors to struggling winners

Round about October time and nearly every football pundit claimed Manchester City were the runaway winners for all the trophies available to them. Well nearly every pundit.

After looking at the schedules between October and February, I claimed that the title was a far from over conclusion and as we enter March that has played out with Manchester United only sitting a point behind. City have also crashed out of both domestic cups as well as the Champions League in that time. With the dragged out Carlos Tevez fiasco and Mario Balotelli's weekly tabloid appearances, things are fine from OK at the Etihad.

So should the impossible happen and City not win the league what will happen next season. Will Roberto Mancini's job be safe. You would have to say the answer is unlikely. Their are a host of top managerial candidates that would love the financial power available as well as the core of undoubted top quality players already at the club. Fabio Capello or Jose Mourinho are just two that jump to mind.

Obviously they are sorted for a goalkeeper as Joe Hart is just a natural in that position. However a decent understudy might not be a bad plan. However this is not a necessity.

One area City will need to find a settled starting line up is the back four. Kompany has been a rock this season and I am a fan of Micah Richards at right back. However is Lescott a Champions League centre back. I say not really. While Kolo Toure is, he seems out of favour so I think there is a case for another centre back to join the ranks. Also a first choice regular left back wouldn't surprise me. Kolorov and Clichy have both had chances but neither has stacked a claim for a regular start. Ashley Cole could be an option.

In midfield Yaya Toure and James Milner look the real deal but I would expect one tough tackling midfielder to join over the summer. They may also bring in one more natural wide winger but that apart City are blessed with an talented midfield.

Up front City have relied on Aguero and Dzeko and neither has disappointed. However I do expect a marquee signing like Hulk to join over the summer. A Chelsea fan I spoke to the other day wouldn't be disappointed if a straight swap of Torres for Tevez happened which speaks volumes.

A clear out of dead wood should see the likes of Stuart Taylor, Gunnar Nielsen, Wayne Bridge, Gareth Barry, Owen Hargreaves, Michael Johnson, Emmanuel Adebayor and Roque Santa Cruz could all find themselves reassigned whether new management or if Mancini keeps his job. Another summer of intrigue surrounds the money men from Manchester.

What are your thoughts. Comment below.

Armchairstato.com: United Need

Armchairstato.com: United Need: No matter how many ways I assess Manchester United's options both this season and beyond, one solution keeps popping up which Sir Alex Fer...

United Need

No matter how many ways I assess Manchester United's options both this
season and beyond, one solution keeps popping up which Sir Alex
Ferguson needs to address in the summer.

OK United will probably add another striker in the summer but the
player I'm most eager to see arrive is Jack Rodwell.

Rodwell has Anderson's work rate, Fletcher's ability to man mark and
tackle and has Scholes's knack of late runs forward. Give him a
platform and I'm sure he will step up and not only become United's
"Gattuso" or "Davids" but an integral part of the England set up. That
type of player that United have been crying out for since Roy Keane
retired.

Adding Rodwell gives United an amazing squad. Lindegaard has proven
better than expected and de Gea will be a great keeper. Young Amos has
had a few games as well. Smalling, Ferdinand, Vidic, Jones, Evra,
Evans and the da Silva brothers. One addition I would be interested in
is if Harry Redknapp leaves Tottenham, would Kyle Walker consider a
move to Old Trafford. He would vie for a start at right back and
provide cover for Evra.

United's wide options would include Valencia, Nani, Young and even
Giggs and Park with central midfield options of Fletcher, Carrick,
Anderson, Scholes, Cleverley and Rodwell.

I'd keep Owen on a rolling contract. He still has goals in him.
Rooney, Hernandez and Welbeck all provide a good goal threat but one
thing Fergie loves is a striker and Ricky Wolfs van Winkle has been
mentioned.

What are your thoughts on this. Comment below.

Armchairstato.com: What is Manchester United's best starting back 5?

Armchairstato.com: What is Manchester United's best starting back 5?: I am quite certain that if you asked 100 Manchester United fans who was their first choice back 4 and goalkeeper, then you would probably re...

What is Manchester United's best starting back 5?

I am quite certain that if you asked 100 Manchester United fans who was their first choice back 4 and goalkeeper, then you would probably receive 100 different combinations.

With key matches against Arsenal and Liverpool looming, there are a few tough choices Sir Alex Ferguson has to make. Some think David de Gea has the ability to become a true great goalkeeper, providing he can work out how to handle crosses and corners. His aerial game is non existant due to the less aerial game in Spain. It's more shot stopping over there and that is why I think de Gea will start against Arsenal. However some will point to Anders Lindegaard's performances and say the evidence points to him being a more consistant performer. Due to Andy Carroll's height and the amount of crossing Liverpool should employ, I think Lindegaard should start in the FA Cup game.

Moving on to the right back position. Rafael da Silva is brilliant going forward. Ability of being a great attacking wing back. However he cannot tackle without conceding a freekick, foul and walks a disciplinary tightrope each match. I wince in advance when I see him tracking back or going in for a 50-50 challenge. While Phil Jones can play this position you lose something playing him there and that is why if fit Chris Smalling has to play there. His rise from non league to Premier League then international level has been amazing. He reads the game so well, is quick and athletic for his build and he delivers a good pass as well.

In the absense of Nmenja Vidic, United have found themselves light in that area. Rio Ferdinand, Johnny Evans and Phil Jones have all played but it is Ferdinand and Jones who have to be the partnership for a run of games. Ferdinand has lost that little in his legs but his mind makes up for that. All he needs to do is adjust his game to a more sitting role. With Phil Jones alongside him you are guaranteed a guts and thunder player. His determination to make every block and tackle sets an example to the whole team and yes at times he gets unlucky with own goals and deflections but he is in those areas making the effort to douse the fires before they happen.

Obviously at the moment Patrice Evra is largely untouchable at left back. Fabio da Silva is a decent player in both directions but where he can tackle unlike his twin brother he has turned into one of those players who is always injured. It will be interesting to see how Evra handles the inevitable stick he can expect from the Anfield faithful.

This is how I would start the Arsenal and Liverpool games. Lindegaard should start in goal in both games as it is unlikely that Fergie can keep chopping and changing them for such vital games. For the purpose of Liverpool Lindegaard has to be the man. Then you would have a back four of Smalling, Ferdinand, Jones and Evra with either a three man midfield of Antonio Valencia, Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes or, considering Valencia is miles better hugging the touchline, I'd have Valencia, Carrick, Scholes with either Ryan Giggs or Javier Hernandez on the left. I'm not a nani fan. Never have been and he hasn't won me over yet. I couldn't risk him for either game. That would leave Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney up front.

With only Ashley Young the only player United are awaiting a return of it is down to the bare minimum and options are tight. Those lineups should see 3 points at The Emirates and 4th round triumph at Anfield.

Who makes your United starting XI. Comment in the box below.

Armchairstato.com: FA Cup 4th round preview

Armchairstato.com: FA Cup 4th round preview: Now that the replays are taken care of, it’s time to look forward to the 4th round of the FA Cup. QPR v Chelsea Until Neil Warnock’s unti...

FA Cup 4th round preview

Now that the replays are taken care of, it’s time to look forward to the 4th round of the FA Cup.

QPR v Chelsea
Until Neil Warnock’s untimely demise from the Queens Park Rangers hot seat, the fixture between QPR and Chelsea looked a forgone conclusion for the Stamford Bridge club. Now ex Chelsea star mark Hughes, who has more than enough FA cup pedigree is in the QPR managers job, this could be a tasty local derby. A lot will depend on who Hughes can bring in and whether or not he can motivate his squad for the game. I wouldn’t be surprised if the home team spring a surprise against their more illustrious opponents.

Liverpool v Manchester United
Liverpool versus Manchester United is always more than just another game. With the recent Luis Suarez suspension for racism against Patrice Evra, United are certainly in for a hostile reception when they take to the Anfield turf. Don’t forget United managed a draw away to their bitter rivals earlier in the season and Liverpool have the worst chances taken ratio in the Premier League. I think the Manchester club willo be victorious.

Blackpool v Sheffield
Blackpool versus Sheffield Wednesday is an interesting fixture as both clubs may be concentrating on their respective leagues. Home advantage should just make the difference but if there is to be an upset then this could be the game.

Bolton v Swansea City
Bolton against Swansea is a game where Swansea can rest key players and play some of their fringe squad. Bolton will be keen to avoid injuries to their key men as they look to avoid the drop from the Premier League. Another tie where both could rest a lot of players but I think the Welsh side could come out on top in this one.

Derby County v Stoke City
Derby versus Stoke should be a good game. Stoke are one of the toughest teams to beat in the Premier League but will surely rest key players for this match. Derby may have a chance in this one and a lot will depend on how much both teams want it. Don’t forget Stoke’s run to last seasons final and this may just swing the balance in their favour.

Hull City v Crawley Town
Hull against Crawley Town could just be the upset of the round. I travelled up for last seasons game against Manchester United and the Sussex Red Devils won’t fear the Championship side. They gained many fans for the way they approached last seasons cup run and I have a sneaky suspicion that Crawley could find themselves in round 5 once again.

Leicester City v Swindon Town
Leicester against Swindon may not jump out at the average football fan. This clash between two former Premier League sides has one element guaranteed to make it exciting. One name that makes everyone take notice. Swindon manager Paulo di Canio. With him on the sidelines absolutely anything is possible. Leicester will be up for this one though and both teams will be full out for a win and hoping for a big Premier League tie in the next round.

Millwall v Southampton
Millwall against Southampton does not jump off the page to me in any shape or form. This match does guarantee a Championship side will be in the 5th round and based on the league table you would guess the South club would win but to be honest there is less romance in this tie than in Jordan’s married life.

Stevenage v Notts County
Stevenage versus Notts County is an all League 1 affair. It keeps some magic in the cup in the knowledge that at least one team from outside the top two divisions is guaranteed to be in the 5th round hat. On league form you would guess Stevenage will be the winners but as you allknow in the FA cup nothing is guaranteed.

West Brom v Norwich City
West Brom against Norwich could just be one of those games. The canaries look set for a decent finish in their first season back in the top flight while the Baggies, although not flirting with relegation, are not as assured of themselves. Norwich could rest a few but Paul Lambert may go the other way and full out for the win. A tough match to call but another guarantee is there will be one less Premier League side to contend with in the next round.

Sheffield United v Birmingham City
Sheffield United face an interesting tie against Birmingham and with home advantage will fancy another round. They seem to be determined in having a good finish to a season marred by the loss of Gary Speed. Birmingham face yet another game in a season that just keeps on giving them extra fixture congestion. It would be no surprise if Chris Hughton fields the youth team as his main priority is still Championship playoffs. All that combined could pave way for a Sheffield United victory.

Brighton & Hove Albion v Newcastle United
Brighton host Premier League Newcastle in what promises to be an intriguing game. Newcastle have enjoyed a good season and despite a blip when key defenders were out they still sit high amongst the Premier League elite. Manager Alan Pardew can afford to go for the cup in the knowledge that they should acquire enough points from now till the end of the season to be safe. Brighton have struggled after a good start to the season and although a playoff place is within touching distance it may be a season to soon for them so manager Gus Poyet may fancy a crack at a cup run.

Sunderland v Middlesbrough
A real ding dong derby as Sunderland take on Middlesbrough. It is hard to look past Martin O’Neill’s men for this one. They have looked a completely different team since his arrival and should they win as we all expect, they won’t fear anyone in the next round and will fancy their chances if they get a home tie.

Arsenal v Aston Villa
The final tie of the round sees Arsenal take on Aston Villa. Another Premier League side will fall and can Alex McLeish mastermind another famous win against Arsenals dodgy defence. It was his Birmingham side that beat the Gunners in last seasons Carling Cup final. Arsenal may be relying on Thierry Henry and Robin van Persie a little to much but the curse of the Emirates may be lifted for one more game. Arsenal have not won a trophy since moving into their new home and all assosiated with the club will be striving to change that.

Armchairstato.com: Euro 2012 Squad

Armchairstato.com: Euro 2012 Squad: So we have all made it through the festive period. Most of us are unscathed and there appears to be a genuine 3 way fight for the Premier Le...

Euro 2012 Squad

So we have all made it through the festive period. Most of us are unscathed and there appears to be a genuine 3 way fight for the Premier League this season. With that in mind here is a look at some of the players that Fabio Capello should be watching ahead of the upcoming friendlies before choosing his England Euro 2012 squad.

Goalkeepers
Obviously an injury free Joe Hart is a dead certainty to make the squad for the summer tournament. Elsewhere I have been impressed with David Stockdale since his recall to deputise for Mark Schwarzer. So who should get the 3rd spot. Well all things considered I would have to say Blackburn’s Paul Robinson has been in good form this season. I can’t think of anyone better who is playing every week. Capello seems to like Scott Carson though which is a worry for me as no club in England deemed him good enough yet he keeps making England squads.

Right Backs
If Micah Richards can at last impress Capello that he can recreate his early England form then you have to say he is a definate for the squad. Capello doesn’t like something about him though. This may leave the field open for both Kyle Walker and Glen Johnson to both be included in the Euro Squad.

Left Backs
Quite a simple choice for Capello. Ashley Cole and Leighton Baines should both make the squad and should one get injured between now and the end of the season then Glen Johnson and Kyle Walker can both fill in on that side.

Centre Backs
There could be an issue in this area of the squad and it centres around whether John Terry is found guilty of his pending racism charge. For the purposes of this article I am not including him in the squad, although it’s safe to say that if available, his inclusion would be a given.

Gary Cahill must have slipped down the pecking order due to his season with Bolton and will need a stellar second half to his season to force his way back in. There is Phil Jagielka who in many ways would be a natural replacement for Terry if required and then Manchester United’s trio of Rio Ferdinand, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones. Unfortunately for Smalling I think it will be a tournament too soon for him. Other fringe candidates are Joleon Lescott, Ryan Shawcross and an outside possibility is Steven Taylor of Newcastle United.

Three man Midfield
Capello has ditched the 4-4-2 system. One of the first names on the team sheet will be Scott Parker. As captain in my opinion. Imagine a defensive midfield pairing of Parker and Phil Jones with Steven Gerrard in front of them. There is still time for Tom Cleverley and Jack Wilshere to regain fitness and form and James Milner will be selected for his versatility. The likes of Gareth Barry and Michael Carrick may find they spend the summer twiddling their thumbs. Jack Rodwell is another outside possibility. Under no circumstances should Frank Lampard be a consideration. He has looked lost in the England team for too long now and we have sacrificed enough good players trying to get the best out of him. Again if he can’t get regular football at Chelsea I don’t want him in an England shirt.

Attacking Wide Men
On the right hand side, Theo Walcott and Aaron Lennon seem the obvious choices. That is going to make it difficult for Adam Johnson to make his way into the squad. On the left, a fully fit Ashley Young doesn’t have as much competition but Daniel Sturridge and Gabby Agbonlahor could fill that place if needed. Scott Sinclair has had a decent enough season to be on the radar but ultimately I doubt he will make it.

Forwards
Wayne Rooney will go despite his two match ban. Darren Bent is another who should go. Danny Welbeck looks the best option for holding the ball up and has started scoring regularly. Bobby Zamora impressed in his last England performance and is another fighting for contention. Swansea’s Danny Graham has impressed and adapted well to Premier League football but he needs at least some minutes in friendlies.

It makes the second half of the season all the more exciting as players come in and out of form and the dreaded injury jinx starts to hit.

Armchairstato.com: Masters Snooker - Quarter Finals

Armchairstato.com: Masters Snooker - Quarter Finals: With the final first round match due to start tonight, the standard so far has been top notch. The calibre of players still left in does mak...

Masters Snooker - Quarter Finals

With the final first round match due to start tonight, the standard so far has been top notch. The calibre of players still left in does make you stop and think who lost their opening match.

Gone are the likes of Ding Junhui, Matthew Stevens, Mark Allen and Stephen Maguire leaving some of the bestest names in the sport still standing. However another 4 top class players will leave us before the semi final stage.

The first quarter final is a mouth watering showdown between Ronnie O'Sullivan and Judd Trump. Any match with O'Sullivan in seems to be a fitting final and this is no exception. Much will depend on the Rockets long potting although he may try the cagey game of getting in off Trump's misses. If O'Sullivan turns up firing on all cylinders I do think he will edge this one but it promises to be some match.

Quarter final number 2 is another match up between two great potters. Possibly the best single ball potter in Mark Williams versus the Aussie Neil Robertson. Both are capable of knocking off frames with single visits but the winning factor will be in the safety department. Robertson is not a natural here while Williams has an uncanny knack of taking on risky shots in ways that leave nothing for his opponent. I think Williams experience and temperment will just see him cross the line.

Another mouth watering quarter final sees Shaun Murphy face Mark Selby. While Selby is dominating the top of the rankings these days, the one thing missing from him is the title that Murphy has won. Selby is to good not to be a world champion and he is one of the best all round players in the game. While Murphy has one of the best cue actions his squaky clean image does not endear him to many of the fans. I'd like to see Selby win this one and I see no reason why he shouldn't

The final quarter final pits John Higgins against Ali Carter or Graeme Dott. Higgins is rightly in the top 5 best players of all time in my eyes and undoubtedly the best match player there is. Although he is not getting any younger I think he will have the better of either opponent. Should he play Dott then the match could turn into a slight bore but if Carter beats Dott then the standard of a potential Higgins/Carter match will bring the best out of both.

Semi Final predictions will be available after the quarter finals have been concluded.

Armchairstato.com: Carlos Tevez. Victim or Villain?

Armchairstato.com: Carlos Tevez. Victim or Villain?: The saga of poor Carlos Tevez continues. Following the news that AC Milan have pulled out of negotiations with Manchester City striker Car...

Carlos Tevez. Victim or Villain?

The saga of poor Carlos Tevez continues.

Following the news that AC Milan have pulled out of negotiations with Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez, I can't help feel a little sorry for the Argentinan.

Yes I know he was being paid a hell of a lot of money when he was captain of the Etihad club but for those wages he almost single handedly dragged the club into this seasons Champions League. Before the start of the season he came out and informed the club that he had a desire to leave because his family could not settle in Manchester. This led to him being branded greedy and a trouble maker.

Ask any West Ham United or Manchester United fan and they will tell you a different story. West Ham fans will tell you stories of how Tevez, with his goals and work rate kept them from being relegated. Indeed a goal against Manchester United on the last day of the season was testiment to that.

Then Tevez joined Manchester United and formed a deadly trinity with Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney. Again his effort, work rate and dedication combined with an uncanny knack of scoring vital goals left United fans bewildered when Tevez was not offered a new contract. Sir Alex Ferguson has always stated his biggest regret is not signing Paul Gascoigne but I think if he is honest he will regret allowing Tevez to leave as a bigger own goal.

But leave he did and Tevez joined Manchester City. They narrowly missed the Champions League places in his first season and his goals certainly aided City reach the coverted Champions League. There were murmourings of him not being happy but all City did was throw more money at the problem in the hope that it would go away. Of course it didn't. The reason why is simple but also lost on the money men of Manchester City. Some people are not motivated by money alone. The well being of ones family certainly comes before that.

Carlos Tevez watched as Jerome Boateng was allowed to leave for potential rivals Bayern Munich, Shay Given was allowed to leave for Aston Villa and Craig Bellamy, Roque Santa Cruz and Emmanuel Adebayor were all allowed to leave on loan deals. A deal was offered from South America that would have left Tevez happy to return to his homeland and manchester City would have eventually recouped most of the money they paid out. Instead City played hard ball and thought they could rely on Tevez's professionalism and that he would play despite being clearly unhappy.

So what did Manchester City do to help the situation? Bearing in mind he was joint top league scorer the season before and club captain, they placed him on the bench and stripped him of the captaincy. Things came to a head during City's match against Bayern Munich when Tevez is alleged to have refused to come off the bench. This brought criticism to the player while the clubs role in the events leading up to that night were brushed under the carpet. He was suspended for two weeks and then fined two weeks wages.

Now we are in a transfer window and the big European clubs are all rumoured to be after him. Paris St.German, and both Milan clubs had been all linked with Tevez until today when Italian giants AC Milan pulled out of the running. Maybe the stigma of his time at City has soured clubs perception of him, or the fact he made a substitute appearance ruling him out of any European matches has put clubs off.

Seeing a happy and inform Tevez is what we all want to see. The time has come for Manchester City to realise you can't solve everything with more money and money isn't what drives everyone. If he wants to leave and if Inter Milan are interested then I think a solution should be reached that suits all parties. Manchester City want to sell without losing face, Tevez wants to leave and I think Italy is a place where he wil thrive. Failing that Manchester United fans will always have him back as would West Ham fans.

A former great player now spends his time ambling around golf courses instead of entertaining millions of football fans. So I plead with Manchester City. Let him leave, let him rebuild his career and let him play.

If you have any comments please comment in the box below

Armchairstato.com: Masters Snooker

Armchairstato.com: Masters Snooker: Second in prestige only to the World Championships, The Masters kicks off this weekend. 16 of the top snooker players will battle it out for...

Masters Snooker

Second in prestige only to the World Championships, The Masters kicks off this weekend. 16 of the top snooker players will battle it out for the crown of Masters champion.

Previously held at the Wembley Conference centre, this year sees the tournament hosted from Alexandra Palace. There are some interesting first round match ups.

Ding Junhui takes on Ronnie O'Sullivan to kick off the tournament. A fitting final some would say and it is hard to pick a winner in this match. I go O'Sullivan just.

The evening session sees Mark Williams take on Stephen McGuire. Two contrasting styles, Williams seemingly just rolling any ball in while McGuire is more of a classic break builder. McGuire will be buoyed by a recent win but I think Williams will just squeak this one.

Judd Trump faces Stuart Bingham. Trump has become a crowd favourite but will have to keep his showman antics down to a minimum if he is to overcome a gutsy match play player in Bingham. I do think Trump will win this one.

Shaun Murphy takes on Martin Gould. These two have form and Murphy will need every inch of his best form to get past the dogged Gould. I think a potential upset could be on the cards here and think Gould could frustrate Murphy.

John Higgins faces Matthew Stevens in another match fitting of a final. The Scotsman is widely regarded as the best match player in the world but Stevens has the game to put a decent run together. He seems to finally have found his A game after a few wilderness years following his pal Paul Hunter's untimely death. I am going for a Stevens win in this one.

Neil Robertson will play Mark Allen. Neither player seems to be a firm fans favourite in this country. I have no answers as to why that is but I think Allen will prevail in this one.

Mark Selby takes on Stephen Lee. Lee's Rolls Royce cue action will need to be in top gear if he is to overcome Selby. I don't see it happening and think Selby will win.

The final match of the first round pairs Ali Carter and Graeme Dott. Both players are capable of greatness on their day but neither have too many of those days. Carter frustrates as the talent is obviously there while Dott is the most determined character in the snooker world. Another match that is hard to call but I am going for Carter. Just.

Whatever the outcome of these matches and the following quarter finals it is definately a week to put your feet up and enjoy the best of the baize players doing what they do best.

Armchairstato.com: Mark Hughes's QPR revolution

Armchairstato.com: Mark Hughes's QPR revolution: Following the some what surprising sacking of Queens Park Rangers manager Neil Warnock, owner Tony Fernandez has hired Mark Hughes as the ma...

Mark Hughes's QPR revolution

Following the some what surprising sacking of Queens Park Rangers manager Neil Warnock, owner Tony Fernandez has hired Mark Hughes as the man to keep them in the Premier League.

Fernandez cited Warnock's lack of ability to spend finances wisely as the main reason for the change in management and since his appointment Hughes has been given a £30m war chest to bring in a "higher calibre" of player than Warnock could.

So which areas do Queens Park Rangers need the most improvement?

First of all despite Paddy Kenny being a good goalkeeper, he isn't a world class stopper and if I was Hughes this would be one of the first areas I would look at. There are possibilities in England. Manchester United have Tomasz Kuszczak who has been after a move away from Old Trafford and also young Ben Amos could be a loan option. Then their is Carlo Cudicini who is warming the Tottenham bench.

Queens Park Rangers need a defender or two and Hughes may go to former club Blackburn Rovers to sign Chris Samba. Another ex Hughes player is Wayne Bridge, surplus to requirements at the Etihad Stadium. Another Manchester City seem keen to offload is Nedum Onuoha.

Keeping hold of Adel Taarabt will be a minor achievement but Hughes does have the element of persuasion about him. Queens Park Rangers are also in need of a wide midfielder and another hughes old boy Morten Gamst Pederson might be on the radar. A cheeky loan bid for Manchester City's Adam Johnson could prove fruitful.

Finally and maybe most crucially QPR need a goal getter. Choices are thin on the ground in this department but Hughes could go back to former club Fulham and test their resolve with a bid for Bobby Zamora.

What Hughes did at Manchester City was buy players who perform consistently in the Premier League. I see him doing the same here even if Tony Fernandez wants higher calibre players. Let Hughes get players in who will keep QPR in the league and then in the summer let him attract the bigger names.

Who do you think Hughes should buy? Comment in the box below.

Armchairstato.com: Transfer madness

Armchairstato.com: Transfer madness: Premier League Reunited Following the sensational return of the two Premier League legends Paul Scholes and Thierry Henry this week, I ha...

Transfer madness

Premier League Reunited

Following the sensational return of the two Premier League legends Paul Scholes and Thierry Henry this week, I have compiled a team of players who could even if they shouldn't make a Premier League comeback.

Mark Bosnich
The bloated ex Aston Villa, Manchester United and Chelsea stopper slipped from public grace after a cocaine problem. He tried an unsuccessful comeback in 2007. Still only 39 he was a decent keeper and shot stopper and could quite literally "fill a bench".

Gary Neville
An uncanny running style similar to Forrest Gump, Neville was a player who gave 110% in every match. Dedicated, professional and a natural leader, his qualities won't see him play each week but you would have him in your side if there's a scrap.

Olof Mellberg
The man famous for scoring the first goal at the Emirates Stadium. Useful in both penalty boxes and brave as they come, Mellberg is still playing in Greece and would be a useful addition to a relegation cause. He is only 34 years old.

Sami Hyypia
Another of those natural leaders on the pitch despite a resemblence to the BFG. At 38 his best years are behind him but what he lacks in pace he makes up for in committment.

Ian Harte
A worthwhile signing for his deadball skills alone. At 34 Harte is in the twlight of his career but is still playing at a competitive level with Reading in the Championship. One of the Leeds United golden generation it baffles me why his career has gone so downhill since his Elland Road days.

David Beckham
What can be said about old Goldenballs that hasn't been said before. Booted out of Manchester United more for his entourage than anything else, Becks career is the stuff of legend. Based on hard work and difficult decisions he has got out of football everything he deserves. For moments like England vs Greece at Old Trafford in 2001 alone, and as a free agent I am surprised he hasn't been tipped for a Premier League return. At 36 he surely has a few years left in him.

Patrick Vieira
With Sol Campbell, Jens Lehmann and now Thierry Henry all making returns to Arsenal, it seems strange that the 35 year old former World Cup winner hasn't been coaxed out of retirement. His natural energy and drive would be welcome to most clubs.

Nicky Butt
A player who was raved about in his youth days found his chances limited at Old Trafford. A tough tackling energetic midfielder who had an eye for a goal. At 36 years old him and Vieira would make one formidable midfield partnership.

Harry Kewell
Quite where it went wrong for Kewell is anyones guess. A product of the Leeds United system he was as dangerous left winger as anyone in the world on his day. Moving to Liverpool didn't really work out and from there he drifted off the radar. At 33 years old he still has years in him and had he conditioned himself like Ryan Giggs then maybe a return to the Premier League would be more reality than fantasy.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink
The dutch striker boasted one of the hardest shots during his time in England and was one of the strikers you feared coming up against. At 39 his legs may have left him but with the power he possessed in both feet, he could still do a job and would probably still get 10-15 goals a season.

Ruud van Nistelrooy
The ex Manchester United forward took to the Premier League like the proverbial duck to water. The 18 yard box was his territory and you would of put your house on him scoring than not. At 35 and actively playing in Spain, van Nistelrooy is another who has only goals in him.


The chances of any of these players returning to the Premier League are slim I know. Which former players would you like to see. Please comment in the box below.

Paul Scholes is back

I like many other people thought that it was all just newspaper talk. A seemingly insane story just designed to sell copies. Whether Manchester United's injury crisis is that bad, or Sir Alex spoke to him and said "I need you" or the man himself couldn't sit back and watch his club in their current slump, nobody is to sure but what we do know is that Paul Scholes is back.

Having turned 37 recently many of the Old Trafford faithful must of thought his name on the bench against Manchester City in the 3rd round of the FA Cup was an early April Fools joke. Anyone who turned their TV on after 60 minutes of the match will have been amazed to see the midfield maestro back.

Yes I know he has a little rustiness which gifted City their second goal and there were admittedly a few stray balls. But despite all this it was great seeing the man back doing what he does best. Setting up attacks and creating an air of anticipation whenever the ball came to him 20-25 yards from goal.

If he is to be Sir Alex Ferguson's one signing in this window then it will still be a smart move. Seeing him in action you wonder why he didn't carry on for the whole of this season. We are all aware that injuries to Cleverley, Fletcher and Anderson have left United short in midfield but just having Scholes presence seemed to lift the team. He may not start many matches or indeed play many 90 minutes but that was the case before hand. It's what he gives the team when he is on the pitch that has United fans buzzing again.

The injury crisis that has plagued their early season appears to be lessening. They have Smalling, Jones, Ferdinand and Evra all playing well at the moment. Up front Rooney is back in the goals and Welbeck seems to be in good spirits again. Berbatov was the top scorer over the Christmas period with 6 goals.

It is the midfield areas that the problems really lie. United are blessed for choice in the wings with Valencia, Nani and Young but Carrick aside and the returning Anderson the options were looking bleak for United in centre midfield. Certainly there never was going to be any offers for Wesley Sneijder in this transfer window and Fergie was quick to rubbish rumours linking Frank Lampard to Old Trafford. Lampard is after all the man who England tried to accomodate and in doing so forced Scholes to call a premature end to his International career. A centre midfield pairing of Gerrard and Scholes made sense yet England insisted on pursuing with Lampard.

Well Scholes is back for the rest of this season and although he won't feature in any international matches but if his comeback is successful then I don't see why another season isn't out of the question. Similar to when Zidane bowed out of football on a cloud during the World Cup final, Scholes will be niggled his last hooray was in defeat to Barcelona in last seasons Champions League final. He blends well with the youthful players and is calm and assured that the elder statesman know what to expect from him.

I don't know what the odds on Scholes adding to his tally of United goals was at the beginning of the season but those odds must be tumbling now. Who wouldn't bet on a Europa League final with Scholes scoring the winning goal. In fact that doesn't sound a bad idea at all.