Tottenham v Liverpool- Prediction Panel 2008/09: Preview and Predictions

Definitely the most intriguing encounter of the weekend. Liverpool come to White Hart Lane still unbeaten and Spurs have 4 points from two games benefitting from the Redknapp 'bounce'.

Rafa Benitez has a delicate decision to make on team selection with Champions League action in midweek. Victory over Athletico Madrid would all but wrap up qualification with two group games left. In the absence of Fernando Torres the manager would surely like Robbie Keane available for that one.

But not to play Keane against his old club would be a risk so the Irishman will probably start. At the back there has to be a choice between Agger and Hyypia. The Finn started in midweek and his greater experience in Europe might get the nod midweek with Agger playing here.

Harry Redknapp doesn't have to worry about priorities- the Dinamo Zagreb team will depend on who comes out fit from this match. The key decision for the new manager centres on Ledley King and the centre back situation.

King is the best defender at the club but his injury problems cause constant chopping and changing in this key position. Jonathan Woodgate is a very talented player but seems reluctant to take on a dominant role- alongside King would be ideal but Woodgate with either Corluka, Dawson (suspended anyway) or even Rocha, looks less secure. King is probably coming in for this one, if fit.

In midfield and attack Rednapp seems to have swiftly brought confidence back to what always was a significant array of talent. His second big decision is whether he needs more shielding of the back four which might indicate a recall for Zokora.

The atmosphere at Tottenham is much changed but Liverpool in their current mood are a tough nut for anyone. They are finding ways to win games whatever their level of performance and this task might be beyond Spurs at this stage of their revival.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool; Kick Off 05:30pm 01 Nov 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 2 - 1
Dave Blackburn : 0 - 2
Sue Gardener : 2 - 2
Chris Goodwin : 2 - 3
Paul Grech (sqf) : 2 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2 - 2
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 0 - 1
Peter Lee : TBC - TBC
Don McMahon : 0 - 2
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 1 - 2
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 2
Tony Ratton : 2 - 2
Peter Rendle : 0 - 8
Dan Taylor : 1 - 3
Bill Urban (sqf) : 2 - 3
Andy Wakeman : 1 - 0
Isaac Williams : 1 - 2
Mark Williams : TBC - TBC

Panel Verdict
Regardless of the Redknapp revival the panel are expecting another win for the league leaders, Liverpool.

Home: 3; Draw: 3; Away: 10; TBC: 2;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Everton v Fulham-Prediction Panel 2008/09: Preview and Predictions

Everton are beginning to find some decent form after a slow opening to the campaign. The draw with Manchester United proved to be a real morale booster and the Toffees followed it up with a hard won victory at Bolton. Fulham also enjoyed a victory in midweek and Andy Johnson warmed up for his return to Goodison Park with both goals against Wigan. Having got off the mark for his new club he'll be a lively opponent. The season has now stabilised at Goodison with David Moyes signing on the dotted line and Merrouane Fallaini netting 3 times in 4 games. The Belgian is showing the sort of form he showed for Standard Liege and he looks a natural for the Premiership. If Moyes can harnass him with Tim Cahill Everton could have the most offensive midfield in the league. Fulham are much improved under Roy Hodgson and play some neat stuff. However, they have been poor travellers for several years and again this season, it's been 3 defeats from four trips so far. All the defeats have been by a single goal but Fulham don't appear to have much goalpower away from home. One or two goals for Everton should be enough to win the game, which is reflected in the panel's predictions. Everton vs Fulham; Kick Off 12:45pm 01 Nov 2008 Prediction Panel Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf). Tony Bellew : 1 - 1 Dave Blackburn : 2 - 0 Sue Gardener : 1 - 1 Chris Goodwin : 2 - 1 Paul Grech (sqf) : 2 - 0 Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2 - 1 Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 1 Peter Lee : TBC - TBC Don McMahon : 2 - 1 Antony Melvin (sqf) : 2 - 0 Stephen Orford (sqf) : 0 - 0 Tony Ratton : 2 - 1 Peter Rendle : 2 - 1 Dan Taylor : 2 - 0 Bill Urban (sqf) : 1 - 0 Andy Wakeman : 2 - 0 Isaac Williams : 2 - 1 Mark Williams : TBC - TBC Panel Verdict The panel is solidly behind an improving Everton winning 2-0 or 2-1. Home: 13; Draw: 3; Away: 0; TBC: 2; * Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Portsmouth v Wigan Athletic- Premier League Predicton Panel 2008/09: Preview And Predictions

This is one of those intriguing games which brings Portsmouth suddenly under new management against Wigan in freefall after a promising start to the campaign.

There were plenty of positives from Pompey's visit to Anfield in midweek. The side were resolute and showed no adverse reaction to losing Harry Redknapp's guidance. Without the change of manager they would be hot favourites to win this game.

It's been a bad few days for Wigan. A home pasting by Aston Villa last weekend followed up with defeat at Fulham made it four losses on the bounce. One was the unlucky 3-2 at Liverpool but Steve Bruce's side would take a scrappy point rather than plaudits.

Much depends on Amir Zaki who has been at the heart of Wigan's best efforts this season. He's been held scoreless in the past two outings and if Adams can work out a plan to shackle him, Portsmouth should win.

Wigan have conceded 10 goals in the past four defeats so Portsmouth will fancy their chances. They were understandably cautious at Anfield but can be expected to put the pressure on here. The Defoe-Crouch partnership will be a severe test for the Latics.

In the past 3 seasons these two sides have always split the points. The last 5 meetings have all been won by the home side and this encounter should go the same way

Portsmouth vs Wigan Athletic; Kick Off 3:00pm 01 Nov 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 1 - 1
Dave Blackburn : 1 - 1
Sue Gardener : 2 - 0
Chris Goodwin : 0-0
Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 3-2
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 1
Peter Lee : TBC - TBC
Don McMahon : 3 - 1
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 1 - 0
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 2 - 1
Tony Ratton : 1 - 2
Peter Rendle : 2 - 0
Dan Taylor : 2 - 1
Bill Urban (sqf) : 2-1
Andy Wakeman : 2 - 1
Isaac Williams : 2-1
Mark Williams : TBC - TBC

Panel Verdict
The panel are expecting a first win for Tony Adams' Portsmouth

Home: 11; Draw: 4; Away: 1; TBC: 2;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

West Bromwich Albion vs Blackburn Rovers: Premier League Prediction Panel - preview and predictions

I understand that hair replacement firms are falling over themselves to advertise at the Hawthorns. It’s hardly surprising considering the amount of fans who have been ripping their hair out watching the Albion struggle to kill teams off this season. West Brom are winning plaudits from all quarters for their attacking brand of football, but despite all of their ingenious play they just can’t find the killer touch in front of goal. Tony Mowbray’s men battered Hull City in the first half last weekend, but couldn’t make the breakthrough and lost 3-0. And it was a similar story on Tuesday night against Newcastle United. After going 2-0 down they fought back and dominated the second half, but were unable to find the equaliser.

On Saturday they face Paul Ince’s Blackburn Rovers, who have only been victorious at the Hawthorns once in the past 20 years and haven’t won in the West Midlands for more than four years. Rovers went down 3-2 at Aston Villa on Wednesday night and will be keen to bounce back against the Baggies. Paul Ince’s appointment at Ewood Park wasn’t a universally popular one but the former Macclesfield and MK Dons boss has managed to win some of the doubters over. They’ve hardly set the world alight with their style of football but they are winning games, scoring goals and making themselves difficult to break down – which are the hallmarks of a quality team.

West Bromwich Albion are crying out for a Michael Owen-type striker to convert the chances that they create. Ishmael Miller is under pressure to score more goals and Luke Moore has to make more of an impression when he comes on. Roman Bednar is the Baggies top scorer with three and the former Hearts striker has done a sterling job holding the ball up, linking with the midfield and dragging defenders out of position. All of his goals so far have come at home so Paul Ince will have to try and stifle the Czech.

Blackburn Rovers have lost twice on the road this season while the Baggies have only won at home twice. The Albion will be roared on by their passionate home support and will be looking to put a bit of distance between themselves and the bottom three. It should be an entertaining game and one that should produce a number of goals.

West Bromwich Albion vs Blackburn Rovers; Kick Off 03:00pm 01 Nov 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 0 - 2
Dave Blackburn : 1 - 1
Sue Gardener : 1 - 1
Chris Goodwin : TBC - TBC
Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2-1
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 1 - 1
Peter Lee : TBC - TBC
Don McMahon : 2 - 1
Don McMahon : 2 - 1
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 2 - 1
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 0 - 1
Tony Ratton : 2 - 3
Peter Rendle : 0 - 2
Dan Taylor : 0 - 1
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC
Andy Wakeman : 1 - 0
Isaac Williams : TBC - TBC
Mark Williams : TBC - TBC

Panel Verdict
The panel is currently split - with all three results equally backed.

Home: 5; Draw: 4; Away: 5; TBC: 5;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Middlesbrough vs West Ham United: Premier League Prediction Panel - preview and predictions

West Ham United have only won once on Teesside in the past 17 years so it’s hardly the best place for Gianfranco Zola’s Hammers to go in search of their first Premiership win in five outings. However, the Irons’ last triumph at the Riverside came in December last season and the claret and blue army have seen their boys win six of their past nine clashes, home and away, against the Teessiders, so maybe the travelling support will leave the north east as happy Hammers.

But Gareth Southgate’s Middlesbrough will be looking to record back-to-back victories in the Premiership for the first time this season following their 2-0 triumph over Manchester City in midweek. That victory spring boarded Boro back into the top half of the table and another three points today could see them climb up to seventh.

After an impressive start to the season, which saw Middlesbrough beat Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City, and almost leave Anfield with a share of the spoils, Gareth Southgate’s men have suffered a string of defeats. This run was compounded by their 5-0 thrashing at the hands of Chelsea a fortnight ago. But maybe that was the kick up the backside they needed because since then they have drawn with Blackburn, although they should have won it, and defeated Manchester City. Confidence is everything in football and victories certainly inspire players to perform to their potential.

West Ham United, like Middlesbrough, had a decent start to the season, but since Alan Curbishley left Upton Park, the Hammers have been hit with problem after problem – the shirt’s sponsors going into administration, the Tevez affair rearing its ugly head again, the chairman being a victim of the credit crunch and Dean Ashton getting injured yet again. Zola’s start to his managerial career began well with back-to-back victories over Newcastle United and Fulham and the players have come out in unison in support of the Italian. However, after four defeats on the trot, this is where we will see if Zola is up for the job.

The Hammers have lost to three of the Premiership’s top six sides recently and have only scored once in that period. With Ashton out and Cole suspended following his red card last weekend against Arsenal, Craig Bellamy and Di Michele will be expected to shoot the Hammers to victory.

This will be the 55th league meeting between the two sides with the honours currently shared with 22 wins each. On current form you’d have to fancy Gareth Southgate’s men to win, but the Hammers seem to have something over their north east counterparts so I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Hammers recording their second away win of the season.

Middlesbrough vs West Ham United; Kick Off 03:00pm 01 Nov 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 0 - 0
Dave Blackburn : 2 - 0
Sue Gardener : 2 - 1
Chris Goodwin : TBC - TBC
Paul Grech (sqf) : 2 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 1-3
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 1 - 0
Peter Lee : TBC - TBC
Don McMahon : 0 - 1
Don McMahon : 1 - 3
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 2 - 0
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 0
Tony Ratton : 2 - 1
Peter Rendle : 1 - 1
Dan Taylor : 1 - 2
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC
Andy Wakeman : 2 - 2
Isaac Williams : TBC - TBC
Mark Williams : TBC - TBC

Panel Verdict
The panel is slightly torn - West Ham are due a result - but a majority are backing a Middlesbrough win.

Home: 7; Draw: 3; Away: 4; TBC: 5;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Chelsea vs Sunderland: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Chelsea got back to winning ways against Hull City in midweek after Liverpool ended their proud unbeaten home record and Scolari’s men will be looking for normal business to resume on Saturday. Despite last weekend’s result, the Blues look like being a real force this season and I don’t think too many people will be expecting Sunderland to leave the capital with anything bar a good hiding.

The Black Cats themselves will be looking to bounce back from the shock midweek defeat at Stoke City, but there’s no harder place to try and get a result than Stamford Bridge – although the Black Cats recorded a stunning 4-2 win against the Blues in March 2001. Not too many teams have scored four at the Bridge in recent seasons but Sunderland have paid for it since – they’ve lost the past four fixtures in the capital conceding 11 in the process with nothing in reply. Most people feel that Chelsea will increase that figure somewhat on Saturday.

Chelsea have a wealth of talent at their disposal and Frank Lampard has been on top form for club and country since Scolari’s arrival. His goal against Hull City was simply sublime and personally I believe was a much better goal than Tottenham’s David Bentley’s against Arsenal. Deco and Bosingwa have adapted to the English game well and Nicolas Anelka looks much more interested. The absence of Carvalho may give Roy Keane to work on, but I don’t see Cisse having that much success against the Blues back four. However, Scolari will have to make sure that Chelsea don’t give away any silly free-kicks in the last third as Kieran Richardson has shown that he has some quality.

Chelsea vs Sunderland; Kick Off 3:00pm 01 Nov 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 2 - 0
Dave Blackburn : 3 - 0
Sue Gardener : 3 - 0
Chris Goodwin : TBC - TBC
Paul Grech (sqf) : 3 - 0
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 3 - 0
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 3 - 0
Peter Lee : TBC - TBC
Don McMahon : 3 - 0
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 3 - 0
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 3 - 0
Tony Ratton : 2 - 2
Peter Rendle : 3 - 0
Dan Taylor : 4 - 1
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC
Andy Wakeman : 3 - 0
Isaac Williams : TBC - TBC
Mark Williams : TBC - TBC

Panel Verdict
The panel is expecting Chelsea to win 3-0.

Home: 12; Draw: 1; Away: 0; TBC: 5;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Does Heurelho Gomes Have A Future With Spurs?

Most people enjoyed Wednesday night's 4-4 thriller at the Emirates but the respective goalkeepers won't be among them. For the Spurs man in possession it was another tough night in a difficult baptism to the Premiership.

Heurelho Gomes has quickly been put high on the list of players who Harry Redknapp might demote and then move out of White Hart Lane but the issue is not that simple.

The new manager made a point of saying kind words about the Brazilian as a 'brave keeper' who doesn't hide on his line. This may be his own feelings and it could also have an element of necessity in it.

With two months to the transfer window, Redknapp's options are limited unless he chooses to seek a keeper on a loan deal. His choices within the club are not strong. He could recall Ben Alnwick from Carlisle but despite his promise the ex-Sunderland man has only played 35 League games.

Sanchez Cesar hasn't appeared at all in the Premiership although he has over 100 games for Real Zaragoza. Set against that though, Gomes has 17 caps for Brazil, won titles with PSV Eindhoven and has huge Champions League experience.

To change the last line of defence at this point is probably risking too much upheaval. Plus, the new manager will want to be satisfied about who exactly is to blame for some of the problems in the Spurs defence.

Gomes has taken some stick for some ill-judged attempts to come for crosses but the key is whether he comes because he wants to, or if he feels he must because of a lack of authority in his defenders. As ever, keepers are always the most obvious target when it goes wrong but Redknapp will want to be certain his central defenders are taking responsibility.

At PSV Gomes was a cult figure precisely because he was a big presence who put himself out front. Normally managers are happy to accommodate players prepared to take responsibility and pump up their colleagues. With keepers it always comes with a risk factor though- the catastrophic mistake at Udinese being a case in point.

If Gomes gets past the Udinese player it looks like a piece of cool judgement and sends a message to his team mates- equally, when it goes wrong it puts tremendous pressure on a struggling team.

If, to use Harry Redknapp's phrase, Gomes was playing poorly by 'hiding on his line', there's no doubt the new boss would shift him out. Because of his boldness and a lack of alternatives, the Brazilian will probably have more chances, unless he drops some howlers and/or Cesar really impresses the new manager.

More than any other position, goalkeeper is the most difficult to bed into when a team is playing poorly. Clean sheets bring confidence but most of the Spurs side has misfunctioned and so Harry Redknapp is likely to give Gomes a clean slate and two months to impress.

Is it time to drop Manuel Almunia?

In a week when there was a furious outcry over a phone-call to an actor who famously played a Spanish Manuel; there was a less publicised suggestion that Manuel Almunia should be considered as an England 'keeper for World Cup 2010. In Scotland the same debate rages about Nacho Novo's transferable loyalty - and in both cases the player is simply not good enough to be worth picking.

For Almunia against Tottenham he was discomfited by four long-range efforts from open play - none of which he was able to deal with adequately; better teams than Spurs will have noted this weakness from range and I would be unsurprised to see Stoke adopt a shoot on sight policy, with players looking to pounce on rebounds.

The first Tottenham goal from David Bentley was, for me, a clear goalkeeping error. Almunia dived too early and was horizontal when he helped the ball into the net - look closely and without the dive the ball would probably have landed in front of the goal-line. There is an excuse for being beaten from range where the ball swerves and dips just under the bar, but this was a 45-yard lob that would have bounced before entering the goal - keepers should keep those out 99 times out of a 100.

The second goal thumped Almunia in the face, stunning him sufficiently that he was unable to offer much of a challenge to the rebound. But his reaction suggested that he had suffered a broken nose or something - or perhaps he was getting his excuses in early.

The third goal was nicely clipped from 20 yards by Jermaine Jenas - but it was not in the corner and yet Almunia got nowhere near it.

The final goal brought mayhem, but again Modric was fully 25 yards out when a fully extended Almunia was unable to turn the speculative effort around the post - or recover to try to block the rebound.

Maybe it was a dodgy night for Almunia, but it is interesting that the focus has been on the dubious quality of the Spurs stopper when Arsenal's keeper was arguably poorer. Almunia took a long time to establish himself as a number one but the league stats of the 'big four' do not back him; this season Arsenal has conceded 10 goals, Liverpool 6, Chelsea 4 and Man United 5. Last season United conceded 22, Liverpool 28, Chelsea 26 and Arsenal 31.

Fine lines will divide the top few in a division this competitive and I am unconvinced that Almunia is good enough for Arsenal - certainly after a performance like that - maybe giving Almunia a rest and giving Lukasz Fabianski a shot is worth considering.

Premier League Prediction Panel - Round 10 wrap

The Tuesday night win for Newcastle was predicted by 70% of our panelists; so onto Wednesday's games.  Liverpool has a seemingly straightforward home game against Portsmouth after the stunning win at Chelsea; Chelsea meanwhile face a tricky trip to this season's surprise package, Hull.  Arsenal are at home to Spurs in tonight's big game; with Villa looking to capitalise on any mistakes by the Gunners at home to Blackburn.  Manchester United need to make up ground and are home to West Ham, Manchester City travel to Middlesbrough and Sunderland are at Stoke.  Two clashes between teams in the bottom half - Everton make the short trip to Bolton, and Fulham play Wigan.

Tuesday, 28 October 2008

Newcastle United vs West Bromwich Albion
The panel reckons that Newcastle will win this one, probably 2-1.

Wednesday, 29 October 2008

Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur
A week ago this would have been an across the board Arsenal win prediction, now by a narrow majority, 60% of panelists are going for an Arsenal win.

Aston Villa vs Blackburn Rovers
The panel reckons this is a clear Villa win; probably 2-0.

Bolton Wanderers vs Everton
Everton second-half revival at the weekend and Bolton's capitulation at Spurs sees a narrow majority favouring an Everton away win.

Fulham vs Wigan Athletic
The panel reckons this is the closest game of the night, with only a very narrow majority favouring Fulham.

Hull vs Chelsea
Just about everyone is expecting Chelsea to bring Hull's stunning run to an end tonight.

Liverpool vs Portsmouth
The panel is firmly expecting the league leaders, Liverpool, to register another win.

Manchester United vs West Ham United
The vast majority of the panel are expecting a Manchester United home win.

Middlesbrough vs Manchester City
The panel is split, but the majority see a Manchester City win.

Stoke City vs Sunderland
The panel is going for a score draw here - probably 1-1.

Hull City vs Chelsea: Premier League Prediction Panel - preview and predictions

Hull City continued their fine start to the Premier League season with a 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at the weekend, but they’re certainly going to encounter a sterner test tonight as last season’s Champions League and Premiership runners-up Chelsea come to town.

Phil Brown’s Tigers have given the big boys a huge kick up the backside and revived everyone’s faith in the beautiful game. Hull City may not have the household names of your Chelsea’s, your Arsenal’s or Manchester United’s, but they have a great team spirit and work ethic and that’s worth more than a Frank Lampard or Didier Drogba.

However, Chelsea will be smarting after losing their proud unbeaten home record against Liverpool, and the Blues will be desperate to keep the pressure on Liverpool at the top. Scolari’s men have been on fine form on the road and their last game on the road saw them blow Middlesbrough out of the water. The end result was an impressive 5-0 but it so could have easily been 10, such was the difference in class.

Hull City, who have already been on the receiving end of a 5-0 thrashing at home by Wigan Athletic, will be keen to avoid a repeat performance tonight. However, unlike at the start of the season when Brown would have been dreading a double-header against Chelsea and Manchester United, the former Bolton assistant will be able to send his troops out without any fear due the fact that they have already amassed 20 points.

The Tigers’ last, and only fourth, win against Chelsea came in 1988 in the old second division. Phil Brown, who has achieved the unthinkable at the KC Stadium this season, will be looking to supply the fans with another memorable occasion that will live on in the fans’ minds forever.

Chelsea, who have scored 10 and conceded just two in their past five games, will be keen to get back to winning ways and there’s nothing worse than a wounded animal. Hull should be scared of a Chelsea blitz.

Andy Dawson could feature for the Tigers tonight while Scolari should be able to call on the services of the creative Joe Cole.

Hull City vs Chelsea; Kick Off 7:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 1 - 4
Dave Blackburn : 0 - 3
Sue Gardener : 1 - 3
Chris Goodwin : 0 - 1
Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 2
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 1 - 2
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 0 - 1
Peter Lee : 0 - 1
Don McMahon : 1 - 1
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 0 - 1
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 0 - 3
Tony Ratton : 1 - 3
Peter Rendle : 0 - 2
Dan Taylor : 1 - 3
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC
Andy Wakeman : 0 - 5
Isaac Williams : 0 - 2
Mark Williams : 0 - 2

Panel Verdict
Just about everyone is expecting Chelsea to bring Hull's stunning run to an end tonight.

Home: 0; Draw: 1; Away: 17; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Middlesbrough vs Manchester City: Premier League Prediction Panel - preview and predictions

It may have been on the final day of the season and brought an end to Sven-Goran Eriksson short time at Manchester City, but that 8-1 demolition at the hands of Gareth Southgate’s Teessiders still hurts the City players, and fans. Now with Mark Hughes in charge, Brazilian Robinho leading the line and the trillions in the bank of their new owners, City will be seeking revenge tonight.

City make the trip to Middlesbrough tonight on the back of a convincing 3-0 win over Stoke City. Robinho bagged his first hat-trick in English football and Hughes’s squad will be full of confidence.

Middlesbrough, meanwhile, have only won one of their last six Premier League outings and look to have lost their early-season promise. They played well against Blackburn on Saturday and looked dangerous in front of goal but they conceded a demoralising last-gasp equaliser. Southgate will hope that they have erased that from their game and are totally focused on the game in hand. After all, Manchester City are a club on the move. Robinho has already joined the revolution and this has sparked the likes of Stephen Ireland, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Vincent Kompany into life.

However, for all of the talk about how great Manchester City and Robinho are and how much they will want revenge tonight, City have an awful record against Boro recently. In fact, they have only won once on Teeside in the past 30 years.

This will be Boro’s first home game since they were thrashed 5-0 by Chelsea and they will surely be eager to give the home fans something to shout about.

Both teams will be eager to claim all three points tonight and I think it will be a good game with lots of excitement and a few goals to keep everyone warm on this bitter cold night.

Julio Arca could make his first appearance of the season for Gareth Southgate’s men while Mido remains a doubt. Richard Dunne and Ched Evans are expected to start the game for City but Jo remains a concern for Mark Hughes.

Middlesbrough vs Manchester City; Kick Off 07:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 2 - 2
Dave Blackburn : 2 - 1
Sue Gardener : 3 - 1
Chris Goodwin : 2 - 1
Paul Grech (sqf) : 2 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2 - 2
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 2
Peter Lee : 1 - 3
Don McMahon : 1 - 2
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 1 - 2
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 2
Tony Ratton : 1 - 3
Peter Rendle : 1 - 2
Dan Taylor : 1 - 3
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC
Andy Wakeman : 1 - 3
Isaac Williams : 1 - 1
Mark Williams : 1 - 2

Panel Verdict
The panel is split, but the majority see a Manchester City win.

Home: 4; Draw: 4; Away: 9; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Stoke City vs Sunderland: Premier League Prediction Panel - preview and predictions

Sunderland will be brimming with confidence following their first home victory over their nearest and dearest in 28 years at the weekend but Stoke City will be looking to bring the Black Cats back down to Earth with a bump tonight.

The Potters have already taken maximum points off Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur at the Britannia Stadium this season, and were unlucky not to get something when Everton visited, and Tony Pulis’s men will be looking to move out of the bottom three with their third home victory against Roy Keane’s side.

This will be the first meeting between the two sides since 2006/07 season. Stoke City ran out 2-1 winners in the last meeting at the Britannia Stadium with Lee Hendrie and Vincent Pericard getting on the score sheet. However, Sunderland have a pretty decent record against Stoke City. They have won four of their last eight meetings at the Britannia Stadium and have been playing well but not getting the rub of the green recently.

Stoke City will be looking to bounce back following their defeat against a Robinho-inspired Manchester City side on Sunday and the passionate Potters will do their damnedest to roar their boys on.

Sunderland have only lost one of their previous six Premier League outings and are well organised by Keane, but Stoke City is not an easy place to get a result. It should be fierce encounter between the two red and white striped clubs, but I think Roy Keane would be happy to take a point – although the last draw between the two sides at Stoke City came 18 years ago.

Stoke City vs Sunderland; Kick Off 07:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 2 - 2
Dave Blackburn : 0 - 0
Sue Gardener : 2 - 2
Chris Goodwin : 0 - 0
Paul Grech (sqf) : 2 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2 - 1
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 1 - 1
Peter Lee : 1 - 2
Don McMahon : 0 - 1
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 1 - 1
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 2
Tony Ratton : 1 - 1
Peter Rendle : 1 - 2
Dan Taylor : 1 - 1
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC
Andy Wakeman : 1 - 2
Isaac Williams : 1 - 1
Mark Williams : 1 - 1

Panel Verdict
The panel is going for a score draw here - probably 1-1.

Home: 2; Draw: 10; Away: 5; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Liverpool v Portsmouth:Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/09-Preview and Predictions

Liverpool welcome Portsmouth as League leaders (how that phrase must gladden the hearts of Anfield fans) and the team to beat in the Premiership. What was characterised as misfiring form early in the season, has now become the way potential champions find a method to win matches.

Confidence is beginning to spread through the side after a couple of remarkable comebacks and even the loss of Fernando Torres hasn't slowed the Reds down. They could be without Robbie Keane as well but they are still expected to find the route to goal.

This is a tough baptism for Tony Adams but also one he isn't expected to win. Judgement will be passed on how his sides go about matters at Fratton Park. Speculation has centred on whether he might go with a back three as Pompey are the only side to have used this formation this campaign.

The new boss certainly needs Sol Campbell on the park for this one- there's concern about his hamstring. David James and Peter Crouch will be keen to show the Kop what they have been missing, especially the striker who became peripheral figure under Rafa Benitez.

Liverpool vs Portsmouth; Kick Off 7:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 2 - 2
Dave Blackburn : 2 - 0
Sue Gardener : 2 - 0
Chris Goodwin : 3 - 0
Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 3 - 1
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 0
Peter Lee : 2 - 0
Don McMahon : 3 - 1
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 3 - 0
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 2 - 0
Tony Ratton : 2 - 1
Peter Rendle : 2 - 1
Dan Taylor : 2 - 1
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC
Andy Wakeman : 2 - 1
Isaac Williams : 2 - 0
Mark Williams : 1 - 0

Panel Verdict
The panel is firmly expecting the league leaders, Liverpool, to register another win.

Home: 15; Draw: 2; Away: 0; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before

Fulham vs Wigan Athletic: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Fulham, under Roy Hodgson, are becoming very difficult to score against. As a result when the correct permutation of attacking players is discovered then the team will rapidly start to acquire points; in the meantime they hover uncertainly around the relegation zone. Only twice this season has a team bagged two goals against Fulham - but tellingly only twice has Fulham scored more than one goal in a game (3-2 win over Leicester and a 2-1 win over Bolton). Every single Fulham game has ended in a one goal win or a draw.

Wigan on the other hand deal in bigger numbers; recording some big wins (4-0 over Notts County, 5-0 at Hull, 4-1 at Ipswich) and one disaster, 0-4 at home to Villa last time out. So although both teams are on eight points with the same goal difference they have got there in contrasting ways, Fulham scoring six and conceding eight and Wigan scoring and conceding almost twice as many (11 and 13).

If Fulham can keep it tight then they will expect to score against a Wigan side that has failed to keep a clean sheet in the last six games, equally if Wigan score once then they will not expect to lose. A very balanced game that could become a relegation six-pointer in retrospect.

Fulham vs Wigan Athletic; Kick Off 7:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel

Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 2 - 1

Dave Blackburn : 1 - 1

Sue Gardener : 2 - 1

Chris Goodwin : 2 - 1

Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 1

Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 1 - 2

Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 0 - 0

Peter Lee : 0 - 1

Don McMahon : 2 - 0

Antony Melvin (sqf) : 1 - 0

Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 1

Tony Ratton : 3 - 1

Peter Rendle : 0 - 2

Dan Taylor : 1 - 2

Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC

Andy Wakeman : 1 - 0

Isaac Williams : 1 - 2

Mark Williams : 1 - 1

Panel Verdict

The panel reckons this is the closest game of the night, with only a very narrow majority favouring Fulham

Home: 7; Draw: 5; Away: 5; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Manchester United vs West Ham United: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Manchester United are hitting the heights at times now, but seem unable or unwilling to dominate whole matches. United took some time to take control against Celtic - but once there were brilliant, and again in the first half at Goodison Park were electrifying. But Celtic could have scored before United woke up and Everton did score after United went to sleep, suggesting that a little more defensive cover will offer a better balance - and the returning Michael Carrick could signal that United are about to move up a gear.

West Ham are managed by one of only four Premier League managers born outside the UK or Ireland; perhaps suggesting that Gianfranco Zola will be the last punt on a manager with no English managerial experience for a while. West Ham started well when Zola took over - Alan Curbishley left with the team in good form and in fifth place - but the Hammers have lost all three league games in October.

Manchester United are virtually unbackable in this game, as the team's form returns and facing a West Ham outfit which hasn't avoided defeat for a month.

Manchester United vs West Ham United; Kick Off 7:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel

Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 3 - 0

Dave Blackburn : 3 - 0

Sue Gardener : 3 - 0

Chris Goodwin : 3 - 0

Paul Grech (sqf) : 4 - 0

Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 3 - 0

Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 1

Peter Lee : 3 - 0

Don McMahon : 1 - 1

Antony Melvin (sqf) : 3 - 1

Stephen Orford (sqf) : 3 - 1

Tony Ratton : 2 - 1

Peter Rendle : 3 - 1

Dan Taylor : 3 - 0

Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC

Andy Wakeman : 3 - 0

Isaac Williams : 3 - 0

Mark Williams : 1 - 1

Panel Verdict

The vast majority of the panel are expecting a Manchester United home win

Home: 15; Draw: 2; Away: 0; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Bolton Wanderers vs Everton: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Bolton Wanderers manager Gary Megson was barracked by his own fans as his team limply lost at White Hart Lane at the weekend, and as Bolton slide into the relegation zone there is some cause for complaint. Bolton appear to have learnt little from last season's narrow relegation escape and too often rely on set-pieces for goal chances. Against a combative Everton side that may be a narrow path.

Everton will have gained a lot of self-confidence from the draw with Manchester United. Finally the big money signing from Standard Liege is looking the part and the change in system required by the loss of Andy Johnson is finally starting to click. I would expect Everton to boss possession and create enough chances to win - whether they take their chances is another matter altogether!

Bolton need to get something here or they will start being bracketed with Stoke as the most likely relegation candidates, Everton come into the game with momentum and confidence.

Bolton Wanderers vs Everton; Kick Off 7:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel

Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 1 - 1

Dave Blackburn : 1 - 0

Sue Gardener : 0 - 1

Chris Goodwin : 0 - 2

Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 2

Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 1 - 2

Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 0 - 1

Peter Lee : 1 - 1

Don McMahon : 1 - 3

Antony Melvin (sqf) : 0 - 1

Stephen Orford (sqf) : 0 - 0

Tony Ratton : 2 - 3

Peter Rendle : 1 - 1

Dan Taylor : 2 - 1

Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC

Andy Wakeman : 0 - 1

Isaac Williams : 1 - 1

Mark Williams : 1 - 1

Panel Verdict

Everton second-half revival at the weekend and Bolton's capitulation at Spurs sees a narrow majority favouring an Everton away win.

Home: 2; Draw: 6; Away: 9; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Arsenal focus on the derby game while Arsene Wenger tries to ignore the feelgood-factor that has quickly set in following Harry Redknapp's arrival at White Hart Lane. Adebayor looks sharp again and as Arsenal start to build some momentum, the club will surely be loathe to allow Spurs any time to settle. Expect Arsenal to try to kill the game in the first half and to prey on fragile Spurs confidence.

Harry Redknapp made the switch to manage in games like this, but this is in many ways a no-lose situation. No-one is expecting Tottenham to get anything from this game and certainly a week ago this game was being talked of as a potential embarrassment. Now new optimism is abounding for Spurs - hell some fans are dreaming about avoiding defeat! The players suddenly seem to know what they are doing, but given Spurs soft centre I would not be at all surprised if Redknapp doesn't deploy Ledley King in front of the defence to stiffen up the spine.

Arsenal start as odds-on favourites, but for Spurs, maybe, just maybe.

Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur; Kick Off 07:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel

Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 1 - 2

Dave Blackburn : 2 - 0

Sue Gardener : 1 - 1

Chris Goodwin : 3 - 1

Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 1

Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 3 - 1

Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 1

Peter Lee : 2 - 2

Don McMahon : 2 - 0

Antony Melvin (sqf) : 2 - 1

Stephen Orford (sqf) : 2 - 2

Tony Ratton : 2 - 2

Peter Rendle : 2 - 0

Dan Taylor : 3 - 0

Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC

Andy Wakeman : 3 - 0

Isaac Williams : 2 - 0

Mark Williams : 2 - 0

Panel Verdict

A week ago this would have been an across the board Arsenal win prediction, now by a narrow majority, 60% of panelists are going for an Arsenal win

Home: 11; Draw: 5; Away: 1; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Aston Villa vs Blackburn Rovers: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Aston Villa are again looking like the most likely team to break into the cosy cartel of four teams at the top of the Premier League. Outside the big four only Manchester City has a squad that is as strong - and they seem to be too inconsistent to make a significant breakthrough this season. Villa hammered Wigan 4-0 last time out and have lost just three games out of fifteen so far this season (an odd combination of Chelsea, QPR and Stoke) - they go into this game on form and confident.

Blackburn started well this season under Paul Ince, but that early optimism has foundered with the team scraping points here and there. The hugely influential Chris Samba should be available at the back and Benni McCarthy may have secured a starting with his late saver against Middlesbrough. Anything gained here will be a bonus.

Villa will start as strong favourites with better form and home advantage, Blackburn dont concede many and so will always have a punchers chance.

Aston Villa vs Blackburn Rovers; Kick Off 7:45pm 29 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel

Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 1 - 1

Dave Blackburn : 2 - 0

Sue Gardener : 3 - 2

Chris Goodwin : 1 - 1

Paul Grech (sqf) : 4 - 0

Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2 - 1

Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 0

Peter Lee : 2 - 0

Don McMahon : 2 - 1

Antony Melvin (sqf) : 2 - 0

Stephen Orford (sqf) : 2 - 0

Tony Ratton : 2 - 2

Peter Rendle : 2 - 0

Dan Taylor : 2 - 0

Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC

Andy Wakeman : 3 - 0

Isaac Williams : 2 - 0

Mark Williams : 2 - 0

Panel Verdict

The panel reckons this is a clear Villa win; probably 2-0.

Home: 15; Draw: 3; Away: 0; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Only Four Overseas Coaches Left In the Premiership

Michel Platini and Sepp Blatter have spent a lot of time recently criticising the Premiership for its cosmopolitan character so it's something of a surprise to find that of the 20 clubs, 14 are now under the guidance of British managers, plus two under Irish coaches who made their careers in the British game.

Of these, nearly half are English- a figure which would have been more if Alan Curbishley and Kevin Keegan were still in post. As well as the English 9, Joe Kinnear (for now) and Roy Keane are from Ireland, Mark Hughes and Tony Pulis are Welsh representatives, Martin O'Neill flies the flag for Northern Ireland and there are two Scots- Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes.

The four overseas representatives are Phil Scolari, Arsene Wenger, Rafa Benitez and Gianfranco Zola. The departure of Juande Ramos whittled their number down to a quartet and significantly, Tottenham looked to an English boss to replace him.

There does appear to be something of a sea change in attitude taking place as the appointment of Tony Adams at Portsmouth implies. Pompey are an example of a club that took a look at a foreign coach with almost disastrous results, so it was no shock to see Peter Storrie appoint Adams from within.

For many seasons the Premiership, despite its massive growth and dominance-, has still been in thrall to the concept of the overseas coach- and with good reason.The obvious success of Arsene Wenger at Arsenal and the need to handle talent from different football cultures left some British and Irish managers at a disadvantage in the new order. However, 15 years on, the best have adapted like Sir Alex Ferguson or Tony Pulis, or been replaced by a new breed embodied by Sam Allardyce and his protege Phil Brown.

The Ramos saga represents a case where 'overseas is better' simply didn't equate. The ex-Seville boss never seemed to have the feel for the Premiership and significantly was never capable, or inclined, to explain himself effectively.

Coaches like Scolari and Claudio Ranieri have proved that it isn't necessary to speak English perfectly or even that well- what matters is the attempt to communicate passion which both Brazilian and Italian have done brilliantly. English football requires more than a technocrat, which the best overseas coaches have realised.

It's not to say that the overseas coach is out of fashion. 3 of England's 4 Champions League teams are coached by a Brazilian, a Spaniard and Frenchman but there is no longer the sense that these posts would automatically be denied to managers who made their name in the British game, especially with so  many cutting their teeth at Premiership level.

The most likely, long term challengers to the 'Big 4' are all under British managers now- Spurs, Aston Villa, Everton and Manchester City, where Mark Hughes replaced Sven-Goran Eriksson. One of the things that counted against the Swede was his cool, detached approach, which was once flavour of the month.

As Paul Ince has pointed out, with 9 clubs under English guidance there is a reasonable chance of offering a 'home' successor to Fabio Capello. And this process also applies in Scotland where the Old Firm are in the hands of Gordon Strachan and Walter Smith for the foreseeable future.

There's no doubt that the top coaching talent in the world will still be attracted to the Premier League and home grown contenders face a real battle to get one of the top managerial seats but at least they feel they have a chance. Sir Alex Ferguson has set the date of his retirement and it's possible now to see someone from the British game move into his hot seat.

Newcastle United vs West Bromwich Albion: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Never one to miss an opportunity to cause a bit of a commotion, Joe &*^%^&$ Kinnear has had no hesitation in sticking in everybodies favourite scallywag, Joey Barton, for this match. Missing the experience of Nicky Butt and Michael Owen, Barton may offer some aggression in midfield whilst also adding a little to the attack. Barton has always been a good player and he may offer the x-factor in a match that Newcastle must be targeting for a win if it is not be cast adrift in the wake of an upwardly mobile Tottenham side.

West Brom must also be concerned at the revival at Spurs, because although it is three points above Stoke and four above Newcastle the recent heavy defeats must have hit morale in the club. Losing 4-0 and then 3-0 is not the best way to prepare for a match against a team that is now fighting for everything - and scoring every game (if not actually winning). Tony Mowbray may well set up slightly more defensively and offer some more protection to the defence tonight; and I'm sure that he will be delighted with a 0-0 at the end of it.

Newcastle is an improving team, whereas West Brom has had a couple of heavy reverses - could this be Newcastle's night?

Newcastle United vs West Bromwich Albion; Kick Off 7:45pm 28 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel

Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 2 - 0
Dave Blackburn : 2 - 0
Sue Gardener : 3 - 2
Chris Goodwin : 2 - 2
Paul Grech (sqf) : 2 - 1
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2 - 1
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 2 - 2
Peter Lee : 2 - 0
Don McMahon : 1 - 1
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 1 - 0
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 1
Tony Ratton : 2 - 1
Peter Rendle : 1 - 0
Peter Rendle : 2 - 1
Dan Taylor : 2 - 1
Bill Urban (sqf) : TBC - TBC
Andy Wakeman : 1 - 2
Isaac Williams : 2 - 1
Mark Williams : 2 - 1

Panel Verdict

The panel reckons that Newcastle will win this one, probably 2-1.

Home: 13; Draw: 4; Away: 1; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Prediction Panel - Round 9 Commentary

Last weekend saw some carnage on the fixed odds coupons around the country as several banker results and scorelines went astray; our prediction panel was not alone in falling for several man-traps. Firstly Chelsea lost to Liverpool, which whilst not truly a shock still went contrary to the vast number of 1-1 predictions. Also Manchester United failing to win at Goodison Park was a shock to most.  Finally the Harry Redknapp effect wrongfooted the panel as everyone had their predictions in ahead of this news - Tottenham's first win and Portsmouth's failure at home to relegation threatened Fulham were not popular picks pre-Harry.

Round 9 Correct Score Percentages

Six pundits picked two of the ten scorelines perfectly, which left three of them - Squarefootball's Hugh Larkin (Blackburn 1-1, Man City 3-0), Sue Gardener (Blackburn 1-1, Arsenal 2-0) and Squarefootball's Paul Grech (Blackburn 1-1, Arsenal 2-0) on top of the overall table for the season. Isaac Williams (Sunderland 2-1, Man City 3-0), Peter Lee (Man City 3-0, Arsenal 2-0) and Tony Bellew (Sunderland 2-1, Tottenham 2-0) also picked two correct scores. Seven pundits failed to register a correct score.

20 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
20 Isaac Williams
20 Paul Grech (sqF)
20 Peter Lee
20 Sue Gardener
20 Tony Bellew
10 Tony Ratton
10 Peter Rendle
10 Mark Williams
10 Dave Blackburn
10 Andy Wakeman
0 Antony Melvin (sqF)
0 Bill Urban (sqF)
0 Chris Goodwin
0 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
0 Dan Taylor
0 Don McMahon
0 Stephen Orford (sqF)

Round 9 Correct Result Percentages

In a week of shocks only Don McMahon was able to tiptoe through the results and get the majority correct; with Squarefootball's Stephen Orford the only other pundit who only got half wrong. At the bottom there were a lot of disappointed people - with around 40% of picks being average. Squarefootball's Bill Urban will probably be most disappointed after picking 7/10 and 8/10 in the last two weeks, this weeks 2/10 was a shocker.

60 Don McMahon
50 Stephen Orford (sqF)
40 Tony Ratton
40 Isaac Williams
40 Paul Grech (sqF)
40 Peter Lee
40 Peter Rendle
40 Dan Taylor
40 Antony Melvin (sqF)
30 Andy Wakeman
30 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
30 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
30 Tony Bellew
20 Sue Gardener
20 Mark Williams
20 Dave Blackburn
20 Bill Urban (sqF)
10 Chris Goodwin

Overall Correct Score Percentages (after round 9)

Squarefootball writers Hugh Larkin and Paul Grech are joint top of the overall correct score predictions for the season, taking over from Squarefootball's Bill Urban who drifts to halfway. A good week for Sue Gardener pulls her to within touching distance. Five pundits remain below the par scoreline prediction percentage of 10%. Overall the panel are picking 11% of scorelines correctly this season.

16 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
16 Paul Grech (sqF)
15 Sue Gardener
14 Peter Rendle
13 Tony Bellew
13 Peter Lee
13 Isaac Williams
13 Mark Williams
13 Bill Urban (sqF)
11 Andy Wakeman
11 Dave Blackburn
10 Dan Taylor
10 Antony Melvin (sqF)
8 Tony Ratton
8 Stephen Orford (sqF)
5 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
4 Chris Goodwin
3 Don McMahon

Overall Correct Result Percentages (after round 9)

Despite a dreadful week Squarefootball's Bill Urban remains top and is now the only pundit who has managed more than the par score of 50% of correct results; Dan Taylor and Isaac Williams can be pleased to have hit exactly half right over the season. Top of the correct scores, Squarefootball's Hugh Larkin is only just above the bottom of correct result picks. Overall the panel are picking 44% of results correctly this season.

56 Bill Urban (sqF)
50 Dan Taylor
50 Isaac Williams
48 Peter Rendle
48 Antony Melvin (sqF)
46 Andy Wakeman
46 Peter Lee
45 Dave Blackburn
45 Paul Grech (sqF)
43 Stephen Orford (sqF)
41 Sue Gardener
41 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
41 Mark Williams
41 Don McMahon
40 Tony Ratton
36 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
36 Chris Goodwin
30 Tony Bellew

Prediction Panel - Round 8 Commentary

Just catching up after a short break so there will be a commentary on rounds 8 and 9; before the predictions for round 10 (which is midweek) are published today and tomorrow. This is round 8 where wins for the big four eased the prediction predicaments somewhat as they were widely backed; Arsenal beating Everton 3-1, Liverpool beating Wigan 3-2, Manchester United beating West Brom 4-0 and Chelsea winning 5-0 at Middlesbrough. So, unsurprisingly, only three panelists got less than 5 correct results out of 10.

Round 8 Correct Score Percentages

Bolton fan, Dave Blackburn was the top score picker this week with Manchester United's 4-0 win, Hull's 1-0 win and Stoke's 2-1 win over Juande Ramos's Spurs all hit on the head; with four other scores just a goal wrong. A number of pundits got 2 out of 10 in a week where overall 11% of scores were picked correctly. Of the eighteen, only five pundits failed to pick a single correct score.

30 Dave Blackburn
20 Antony Melvin (sqF)
20 Bill Urban (sqF)
20 Mark Williams
20 Peter Rendle
20 Tony Bellew
10 Tony Ratton
10 Andy Wakeman
10 Paul Grech (sqF)
10 Peter Lee
10 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
10 Dan Taylor
10 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
0 Isaac Williams
0 Don McMahon
0 Chris Goodwin
0 Stephen Orford (sqF)
0 Sue Gardener

Round 8 Correct Result Percentages

A high scoring week again for Squarefootball's Bill Urban and he is setting a heady pace since his return to the panel in round 7, again picking 8 from 10 results; only Villa's failure to beat Portsmouth and Manchester City doing likewise at Newcastle stopped our US correspondent from sweeping the board. Two other pundits kept pace on 8 out of 10, Dan Taylor (let down by Bolton and Manchester City) and Peter Rendle (let down by Bolton and Tottenham). A cluster of Squarefootball writers propped up the table, Paul Grech (3/10), Stephen Orford (4/10), Hugh Larkin (5/10) and Antony Melvin (5/10) will be expecting better in coming weeks!

80 Bill Urban (sqF)
80 Dan Taylor
80 Peter Rendle
70 Dave Blackburn
60 Don McMahon
60 Chris Goodwin
60 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
60 Andy Wakeman
60 Isaac Williams
60 Mark Williams
50 Tony Bellew
50 Tony Ratton
50 Peter Lee
50 Antony Melvin (sqF)
50 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
40 Stephen Orford (sqF)
40 Sue Gardener
30 Paul Grech (sqF)

Overall Correct Score Percentages (after round 8)

Squarefootball's Bill Urban tops the correct score pundits picking 2 out of every 10 scores correctly; Squarefootball's Paul Grech is a close second on 16% with Peter Rendle and Squarefootball's Hugh Larkin on 15%. Only 4 pundits are below the par score of 10% and the overall average is a touch over 11%.

20 Bill Urban (sqF)
16 Paul Grech (sqF)
15 Peter Rendle
15 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
14 Sue Gardener
14 Mark Williams
12 Peter Lee
12 Tony Bellew
12 Isaac Williams
12 Dan Taylor
12 Dave Blackburn
12 Andy Wakeman
12 Antony Melvin (sqF)
10 Stephen Orford (sqF)
8 Tony Ratton
6 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
5 Chris Goodwin
4 Don McMahon

Overall Correct Result Percentages (after round 8)

Again Squarefootball's Bill Urban has opened up a significant lead at the top, picking 15 out of every 20 results correctly - consult his thoughts before you fill out that fixed odds form guys! Dan Taylor and Isaac Williams are in joint second place on 52%. The accepted par score of 50% has been achieved by seven of the eighteen pundits, with the overall average up to 46%.

75 Bill Urban (sqF)
52 Dan Taylor
52 Isaac Williams
50 Peter Rendle
50 Dave Blackburn
50 Andy Wakeman
50 Antony Melvin (sqF)
48 Peter Lee
46 Sue Gardener
46 Mark Williams
46 Paul Grech (sqF)
44 Colin Illingworth (sqF)
42 Chris Goodwin
42 Stephen Orford (sqF)
40 Tony Ratton
40 Hugh Larkin (sqF)
38 Don McMahon
30 Tony Bellew

Which Portsmouth Players Will Go to Spurs?

Harry Rednapp is making a swift return to Portsmouth to pick up the Freedom of the City honour. Pompey fans are more interested in what he might be coming back for in January when the transfer window opens.

Even more than most sides, the Pompey team is 'the team that Harry built'. Many are there because of his presence, so who might be going to Spurs and who are the most likely targets?

Lassana Diarra - move rating 9/10

Spurs need a combative presence in their midfield who can win it, use it and cover lots of ground. Diarra fits that bill to a tee and he is known to be fiercely ambitious. When he came to Portsmouth he virtually made it clear he saw his stay as a stopping off point to a bigger club.

Given his ambitions and Spurs needs, the Frenchman has to be the most likely signing for Redknapp.

Jermain Defoe 8/10

Arguably he shouldn't have left Spurs but the move did him good because he's a finisher who needs to play and be among the goals to boost his confidence. One of many players who credits Redknapp with adding to his game and this is the second club where he's played under the former West Ham boss.

Defoe would rate as the number one target but Pompey can be expected to put up more of a fight to keep the England striker and Spurs resurces are not limitless. Peter Storrie will ask for considerably more than the £7.5m he cost but if Redknapp insists, Daniel Levy surely has to find the cash.

There is the chance that if Pompey can stall long enough in the window, Spurs would be forced to look elsewhere after what happened last summer.

Glen Johnson 5/10

Another who played for Harry Redknapp at two clubs. The new Spurs boss would certainly like him again but Johnson's attractivenes will depend on the success and /or cost of  the chase for Diarra and Defoe.

Ther will be other options for the right back slot and Redknapp may be perfectly happy with Alan Hutton as his first choice, unless he sees Johnson as utility cover and a centre half in the making.

Peter Crouch 4/10

He's signed Crouch at Portsmouth and Southampton but would he take him to Spurs? The decision to push Luca Modric into a position behind the striker suggests that while he may appreciate Crouch's qualities,Redknapp has plans for different type of game at the White Hart Lane.

David James 4/10

Tottenham's keeper hasn't impressed anyone this season- particularly Vedrun Corluka. It must be odds-on that the new boss will look for another custodian but though David James is still quality, Spurs may feel they have to bring in someone for the long term.

Sol Campbell 2/10

Ok if we were just talking purely football, signing Campbell on a one year deal to get some organisation into the back four would be a logical move. Logic goes out of the window though given the vitriol over his move to Arsenal.

Stranger things have happened in football. Mo Johnston's moves between Rangers and Celtic were surrounded by an incendiary atmosphere and the prospect has been aired in the media but still not one to bet the house on.

Sylvain Distin 6/10

If there's a centre back going to leave Fratton Park for White Hart Lane, Distin is more likely to be in the frame. Redknapp signed him for Pompey and there's no baggage involved. Much depends on Ledley King's situation, whether Ricardo Rocha can make an impression after being banished by Juande Ramos and if Michael Dawson's confidence can be restored.

McCarthy's Wolves On the High Wire

Mick McCarthy doesn't strike many as a flamboyant, risk taking coach. Only last season he took some fearful stick from Wolves fans for ignoring the claims of striker Freddie Eastwood and taking what appeared to be a cautious approach. This year it's different.

Wolves have begun the Championship campaign as the great entertainers- 31 goals scored and 21 conceded adds up to plenty of excitement, though some Wolves fans might prefer a slighty quieter life.

It puts them second to local rivals Birmimgham; by contrast the Blues have just 18 goals but only 8 conceded. Two West Midland sides with the same goal difference but hugely different ways of compiling it.

When the games have gone well for Wolves the results have been spectacular but they have been no less dramatic when fortune has turned against them. In the three League games lost the scores have been 3-1, 5-2 and 0-3. Set against that, the team have scored 2 goals or more in 11 of their 13 League matches.

After last season's failure to make the play offs Mick McCarthy may well have decided that this would be his last campaign at Molineux if he couldn't deliver promotion, so any shackles have definitely come off. It's certainly the way to win over the Wolves support.

Historically, Wolves fans have an image of their club as an adventurous side and a particularly direct one. The great heroes of Molineux are barnstorming forwards like Derek Dougan, Andy Gray, Steve Bull and even the limited Steve Kindon. The great era of the 1950s was based on swift attacking football.

While the 50s is the famous period, it's often forgotten that from 1972-80 Wolves reached 3 Cup Finals ( 1 UEFA and 2 League) as well as dipping out in the semi-finals of the FA Cup unluckily. Again this era was characterised by direct, no nonsense football.

And yet another generation of Wolves fans grew up after the dreadful fall to Division 4,watching Steve Bull and Andy Mutch cut a swathe through lower division defences, so patience is not found in large quantities in the Molineux stands.

Managers like Mark McGhee and Glenn Hoddle have tried to introduce more measured styles of play with varying success but the heart of a Wolves crowd always wants the ball delivered early and with pace to the front men.

McCarthy seems to want to satisfy this desire and he deserves credit for signing hungry players like Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, Michael Kightly, Sam Vokes and Andy Keogh. This campaign promises to be a bit of a hair-raising experience if the autumn is anything to go by and it remains to be seen if it can be sustained through the winter.

It's definitely not boring though and the style reflects the fans' image of the club. Birmingham might be doing it in more prosaic fashion, but for Wolves fans ambition and flair matter and that's what they are being given right now.

Tough Times Ahead for Bolton Wanderers

The desperate, even farcical, early season performances of Tottenham and Newcastle have tended to draw attention away from other sides likely to face a relegation scrap. One such is Bolton Wanderers.

Spurs seem certain to at least move away from the bottom once under new management and Newcastle have been showng more resolution of late. Both may well demonstrate that their current positions are false, which is bad news for the Trotters.

Gary Megson's squad have just two league wins on the board in nine matches and one of those was against Stoke on the first day of the season. Four out of five away fixtures have ended in defeat.

Megson may have staved off relegation last term, after taking over from Sammy Lee, but the position is much the same. Bolton have not recoverd from the departure of Sam Allardyce, or the loss of key players which his move eventually triggered.

There is no Nicholas Anelkaor El Hadj Diouf at the Reebok any more and the goals column so far shows how these top class performers are missed. The Trotters have only hit the net 8 times in 9 games and 6 of those came in their two victories.

As well as the losses up front, time caught up with midfield stalwarts like Ivan Campo, Gary Speed and Stelios who have all departed in the past year. A lot of the side that Sam built is no longer available.

There have been good acquisitions like Fabrice Muamba, Gary Cahill and Matthew Taylor (lowering the age of the squad considerably) but where there was a team full of leaders and characters, a lot of the responsibilty now falls on Kevin Davies and Kevin Nolan, plus old sweats like Ricardo Gardner and Jussi Jaskelainen.

On the Bolton team sheet there are a lot of players for the opposition to respect but not a lot to fear. The forward line is worryingly dependent on the ever combative Davies, who has 4 goals while no one else has more than single League strike. Megson will be hoping that Johan Elmander can find his feet in the Premiership quickly.

The team earned praise for battling dispays against Manchester United and Arsenal but apart from Stoke, Bolton have allowed themselves to be beaten by the teams around them- Newcastle, Fulham and now Spurs, have all taken the points.

The next week brings two home fixtures in a row and Bolton could do with nailing a win in at least one of those games. Worryingly for Reebok fans, Everton are running into some form and Manchester City have a lot of quality to deploy. The next home match to follow will be currently rampant Liverpool.

Bolton are still a well-organised team witha lot of solid professionals. No one gets an easy game against Megson's side and they are capable of battling for results but there are few gamebreakers in the team.

For several seasons the club were punching above their weight in the Premiership but with mid-ranking rivals adding spending power the reality for Bolton is that finishing 16th or 17th might be the realistic target for this campaign.

Rotherham United Showing Fighting Spirit

Rotherham has taken a bit of a battering of late. Jamie Oliver's TV series hasn't portrayed the Borough in the best of lights and the football club started the 2008/09 campaign under a huge handicap.

For the moment though, the Millers are making a decent fist of a season when they have been forced to leave their ground and carry the burden of a 17 point penalty- on top of the 10 point deduction they had to endure in 2007/08. In fact, they have lost 37 points over the past 3 campaigns.

This article isn't going to examine the ins and outs of the club's financial strife- enough to say that in these situations- as at Leeds. Bournemouth and Luton- these penaltes are a kick in the teeth to the fans who turn up every week.

Yet Rotherham have now registered 8 League points after a fine away win at Macclesfield. Significantly it took the team out of the bottom three where they were embedded from the outset with fellow deductees Bournemouth and Luton. Only two defeats in 13 games is testament to the high morale in Mark Robins's squad.

And this has been achieved playing home games at the Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield- a nice venue but one with the deadly running track between the fans and the action, which can put a dreadful dampener on the atmosphere at football matches.

Just to add to the remarkable tale, the Millers knocked Leeds United out of the Johnstones Paint Trophy and dumped Wolves, Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton from the Carling Cup. A Fourth Round tie at Stoke City is still to come.

Since the financial plunge when they left the Championship, Robins is forced to operate with meagre resources. He's doing it with aplomb. This season Reuben Reid has 6 goals for the club after his arrival on a free, after a handful of outings for 6 other League clubs.

By contrast, defender Ian Sharps had over 150 games for Tranmere before he came on a free to add ballast at the back. He's contributed four handy strikes this term to add to his defensive strength.

Ex-international striker Mark Burchil is the most recognisable name. He won 6 Scottish caps during his time at Celtic, Portsmouth and others. He had a loan spell at Milmoor in 2004 and came back over the summer to bring his knowledge and experience to the cause. Midfielder Mark Hudson was another bargain free signing who knows his way around the lower leagues.

Robins' squad compiled from all over the lower divisions has been performing way above themselves since the opening day. As well as the Stoke game there's another big draw in the Johnstones Paint Trophy when Leicester City visit the Don Valley. For a campaign that began with sucha shadow over it, Millers fans are having their best moments since the Championship days.

Many of Mark Robins colleagues from his Old Trafford days are making a big splash in management at a higher level but none of them is doing a better job that the former striker, who would certainly win any popularity contest in Rotherham with Jamie Oliver.

Your views on Harry Redknapp's shock decision

Harry Redknapp stunned the football world this morning by deciding to leave FA Cup holders Portsmouth for north London strugglers Tottenham Hotspur. The former West Ham and Bournemouth boss has replaced Juande Ramos at White Hart Lane and should be in the dugout for today's game against Bolton Wanderers. But what do you make of the decision?

Spurs fans: Are you happy that Ramos, Comolli and Poyet have all been dismissed and are you pleased to have Redknapp in charge? Do you think he is the right man to get Spurs away from the foot of the table? Do you think Defoe could soon be on his way back to White Hart Lane?

Portsmouth fans: How do you feel about Redknapp's decision to walk out on you for a second time? How concerned are you about the club's financial situation? Do you think this could be the end of an era? Who would you like to see replace Redknapp at Fratton Park? Do you wish Redknapp all the best in his new job?

We'd love to hear from you.

Who will be the next QPR manager?

Iain Dowie was given the push from Queens Park Rangers on Friday after just 15 games in charge. The former Charlton and Coventry City manager left the Rs ninth in the Championship, having achieved his best win percentage as a manager -53%. However, it was clear that life at Loftus Road wasn't rosy for the former West Ham United striker and rumours in the Press suggest that Dowie wasn't actually picking the team.

So now the search for QPR's fifth manager in 12 months begins and already there are some big names linked with the vacant position at the club. But who will replace Dowie in the QPR hot seat? I'm going to take a look at some of the early runners and riders in the race and give my assessment on them.

Terry Venables

The former Queens Park Rangers player and manager is one of the front runners to replace Dowie and his appointment would be well-received by the fans. His best spell as a manager came at QPR in the early 80s when he guided them back to the top flight, having won the Second Division title. He also led them to the FA Cup Final and back into European football with the club's highest league position since they finished runners-up in 1976. The former England and Spurs boss has been out of the game for the past five years, but I'm sure his motivational and man-management skills have not lost any of their appeal.

Darren Ferguson

If Sir Alex Ferguson's son can achieve a quarter of what the Manchester United boss has in the game then he will enjoy a great career. He's already tasted promotion with Peterborough United and is one of the most sought after young managers in the sport. But could a move to the Championship be a step too far for Ferguson junior? I'd be inclined to draw parallels with Paul Ince who also started at a lower league club and is currently in the top half of the Premiership with Blackburn Rovers. It would be a brave appointment but one that could turn out to be an inspired one.

Alan Curbishley

The former West Ham United boss left Upton Park earlier this season after players were allegedly being signed and sold without his prior consent. Quite how he would cope at Loftus Road where there are claims that Flavio Briatore is picking the team I don't know. The former Charlton boss knows the game inside out, but his biggest criticism from West Ham fans was that his style of football was not entertaining enough. QPR want to be in the top flight but I believe that they want to do it in some sort of style, so I don't think Curbishley is the right man.

Kevin Keegan

If you want QPR in the Premiership and you want to be entertained along the way then there is no better manager than the former Newcastle boss. Keegan, like Curbishley, walked out on the Toon in September, again claiming that his position was being undermined, and although it's claimed that he may return to St James' Park once the new owners are in place, there are no guarantees that he will. The former England boss plotted Newcastle's return to the top flight and did the same with Fulham before leaving to take over at England. Would he be tempted by a return to the capital? You never can tell with Keegan.

Gianluca Vialli

The former Chelsea ace was linked with the vacant post last year when John Gregory was sacked, but decided that the time wasn't right. Is this the time for him to return to the English game? Vialli, who won the FA Cup, League Cup, European Cup Winners' Cup and the Super Cup with Chelsea, has not been involved in management since leaving Watford in 2002 after just one season in charge. He has a big personality and is a lovable character, but could he succeed at Loftus Road? It would be a bit of a risk.

Roberto Mancini

The former Inter Milan and Lazio boss was recently linked with the manager's job at Upton Park but was overlooked by the West Ham United board in favour of fellow Italian Gianfranco Zola. Mancini has a history of winning silverware, as a player and as a manager, but it has been claimed that "he has no interest in managing in the Championship". We will have to wait and see if Briatore can persuade his compatriot to join him in west London.

Gus Poyet

The former Leeds United and Spurs coach is looking for a new job following Tottenham Hotspur's decision to sack Juande Ramos and he would be an excellent appointment, in my eyes. His enthusiasm for the game is extremely infectious, he likes his teams to play with style and panache and is very ambitious. I'm sure he would be a big hit with the QPR fans.

Kenny Jackett

The current Millwall boss spent three years at Loftus Road with Ian Holloway as the Rs returned to the Championship, but left in 2004 to take over at Swansea City. He currently has Millwall riding high in League One and would be a popular appointment with the fans. He knows the club inside out and obviously knows what QPR means to the fans, however, after failing to achieve success with former QPR old boy Dowie, I think Ecclestone and Briatore may well try another route this time round.

Personally, if I was in charge, I'd do everything in my power to get Keegan. I know he has a history of walking out on clubs but there is nobody better at getting the best out of players and achieving results. He would get the Rs back into the top flight for definite. Failing that I'd go for the safe hands of Terry Venables closely followed by Gus Poyet. But who would you like to see at Loftus Road? I'd love to hear from you.

Spurs finally make a good decision in appointing Harry Redknapp

When a change has to be made it is better that it is swift and decisive, rather than drawn out and laboured. And considering that Spurs were one more defeat away from making Juande Ramos statistically worse than Ossie Ardiles as the manager least capable of picking up points* it is debatable whether this is a quick or drawn out decision.

But the sentiments of the fans - who can be so vocal and fickle at the best (or worst) of times - has turned decisively in recent weeks.

When Squarefootball's Colin Illingworth wondered whether it was time to sack Ramos five weeks ago, there was an overwhelming response in favour of retaining Ramos from the dozens of responses that we got. As an alternative there were less responses in favour of the idea that Ramos was the right man for the job. But again they were totally behind the Spaniard.

At the time that felt somewhat premature, but after recent performances it has become clear that Ramos was simply incapable of getting a reaction from this team. He'd lost the players - something hinted at by Jonathon Woodgate's comments and David Bentley's exclusion - and the fans were ready to mutiny.

It is heartening that Spurs were able to move for Harry Redknapp and that he should accept so readily. It is clear that Spurs is not the same basket-case that Newcastle is - as Redknapp turned down an offer from the north-east when Sam Allardyce was sacked. And with the rest of the failed structure also thrown away, there is room for Redknapp to bring in his trusted coach, Joe Jordan, and leave Tony Adams free to take over at Pompey.

Spurs remain a big draw and Redknapp should have the resources to pick up players. Redknapp has experience of relegation scraps, an unheralded one at West Ham that eventually lead to his dismissal and his second spell at Portsmouth that started with Pompey dead and buried. Spurs has appointed the best English manager in the game, who will get value for money in transfer dealings and - given three years - will bring tangible success to White Hart Lane. This is a good appointment.

* Ardiles garnered 1.15 points per game, Ramos 1.17

† Is Harry Redknapp the right man for Spurs or will Tottenham be looking for a new manager next October?  Let us know.

Sam Allardyce For Portsmouth?

Last time Harry Redknapp left Portsmouth it ended in near disaster; only the unlikely return of the prodigal manager saved the day. This time Pompey can't afford to get the appointment wrong.

With Alain Perrin, Pompey went for a Continental approach. It looked a big risk at the time and that's how it proved. That choice was under ever-eccentric regime of Milan Mandaric but in an atmosphere of general belt tightening at Fratton Park, this selection will probably be a conservative one.

If the need is for maximising resources on a tightening budget combined with extensive Premier League experience, then Sam Allardyce could be back in the frame. The man who worked wonders at Bolton has had his reputation restored a little by the shenanigans at Newcastle, where he was sacked precipatively.

Though Allardyce picked up a reputation for efficiency and the percentage game at Bolton, he's always proved himself ever the pragmatist. Over his time he's used quality footballers like Djorkaeff, Diouf and Hierro when he can get them- if he can't, he's fashioned what he can from solid professionals.

He would inherit a quality squad atPortsmouth but also one that's showing a worrying tendency to leak goals. That's an area that Allardyce is an expert on dealing with.

Portsmouth could well look abroad again but only if they can get a nailed on, high quality coach. There should be no gambling on overseas coaches who have done well with modest clubs. The lure of the Premiership may mean that Pompey attract the interest of top talent but unless its a proven star man, the home market looks favourite.

Lying in seventh but at a critical stage in their development, this doesn't seen to the the time to give a younger, up and coming British boss his big chance either (promoting Tony Adams for instance). There are several players on the staff who came to the club because of Redknapp's presence and while they won't just walk out, a period of instability and then January transfer activity is likely.

A manager who's been there and done it before can help Pompey ride out this period. There may be some concerns among Fratton Park fans about the Allardyce style of play but after what happened the last time Harry Redknapp moved away, a safety first approach might find favour.

Two bookmaking firms already have Big Sam as favourite and add in the fact that he's available to start right away, he looks a decent bet.

Squarefootball Diary - Tuesday October 21 2008

There's a Champions League goal glut this Tuesday, with English sides among those testing out the netting.

Not so the Scottish, as Manchester United sail past Celtic 3-0 in Group E.  Two suspiciously offside looking Dimitar Berbatov strikes preceed Wayne Rooney's 99th career goal to leave United leading the table from Villarreal on goal difference.  The Spanish side are involved in a nine-goal shoot-out, beating Aalborg 6-3;

"Dimitar showed some fantastic pieces of football." reckons Fergie;

"I also think the other players are beginning to understand what type of player he is." he adds, narrowly avoiding words like 'lazy' and 'sulker'.

For his part Gordon Strachan takes it on the chin, but leaves no doubt as to what is on his mind;

"The two goals were offside, but I'm not going to scream about them." he huffs.   

Arsenal hit five at Fenerbahce, manging also to concede two on their way to a two-point lead at the top of Group G.  A goalless first 10 minutes gives way to mayhem as Emmanuel Adebayor and Theo Walcott score in the space of two minutes, only for debutant Mikael Silvestre to put through his own goal on 19.  Abou Diaby restores the two-goal cushion just two minutes later and it is 4-1 just after half-time thanks to Alex Song.  Dani Guiza reduces the arrears with 12 minutes remaining but the final word goes to Aaron Ramsey in injury time;

"Both teams were going forward 100% but the fact we scored an early goal forced Fenerbahce to come out and we caught them many times on the counter-attack." explains a beaming Arsene, thankful to have at last faced a team misguided enough to open the game up.

Dynamo Kiev are the Gunners' nearest challengers at the moment after their 1-0 win at FC Porto.

Bayern Munich top Group F after beating Fiorentina 3-0, while Lyon are two points behind in second after a 5-3 win at Steaua Bucharest.

Predictably Group H is looking like a straight fight between Juventus and Real Madrid.  The former lead by one point after beating the latter 2-1 in Turin, while UEFA Cup holders Zenit St.Petersburg are held to a 1-1 draw by Bate Borisov.

No time to catch a breath with a full list of Football League fixtures to get through.  A very late Garry O'Connor goal gives Birmingham City a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, taking them two points clear at the top after Wolves are thrashed 5-2 at Norwich City.  Reading lead the chase after beating Doncaster Rovers 2-1, while other play-off slots are held by Bristol City (2-0 winners at Charlton), Cardiff City (held 2-2 at Watford) and Burnley who emerge from Coventry with a 3-1 success.

Nottingham Forest are bottom after a 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town, while Barnsley's 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday isn't quite enough to get them out of the drop zone.  That's because Southampton earn a point in a 0-0 draw at Sheffield United, while Plymouth beat Preston North End 1-0 to leap-frog both Swansea City and QPR who draw 0-0 at the Liberty Stadium.  Derby County's run of seven games unbeaten ends with a 3-2 reverse at Blackpool.

Scunthorpe United and Millwall are now neck and neck at the top of League One.  Scunthorpe draw 1-1 at home to Southend United while Millwall win 2-1 at Colchester United.  Leicester City and Leeds United stay in touch but the Foxes may rue the two points lost from their 2-2 home draw with Walsall.  Meanwhile Gary McAllister's side beat Leyton Orient 2-1 and are fourth.  Oldham Athletic are still fifth despite going down 2-0 to mid-table Bristol Rovers, with the final play-off berth occupied by Southend.  The MK Dons miss the chance to join the party, losing 2-1 at home to Stockport County.

Peterborough United and Tranmere Rovers join the Dons on 19 points from 12 games after a draw 0-0 with Brighton and Hove Albion and a 2-0 win over Cheltenham Town respectively.

At the other end the O's are mired in among the bottom four as Yeovil Town beat Crewe Alexandra 3-2.  That loss, coupled with Hereford United's 1-0 victory over Carlisle United means the Railwaymen are left propping up the division.  Swindon Town beat Northampton Town 2-1 to earn some respite while Hartlepool have the better of an eight-goal jamboree, winning 5-3 at home to Huddersfield Town.

Brentford are League Two's big gainers, although their 3-1 win over Morecambe isn't quite enough to take them top of the pile.  That honour still belongs to Wycombe Wanderers who are held 1-1 at struggling Barnet.  Bury hang on to third despite losing 3-1 to Rotherham United.  Shrewsbury Town grasp desperately on to the first play-off place after their 2-1 loss at Accrington Stanley, while Exeter move above Dagenham and Redbridge with a 3-1 win at Port Vale coupled with the Daggers 2-1 loss at Bournemouth.  Gillingham remain just off the pace after they draw 2-2 with Notts County.

Bournemouth remain in the minuses points-wise despite their win, but spare a thought for Luton Town whose 2-2 draw at Grimsby Town is only good enough to take them to -17 points on the league ladder.  Just outside the drop zone but looking safe already are Chester City who are larupped 6-1 by Rochdale.

Lincoln City's 2-1 win at Macclesfield Town completes the agenda.

By Stephen Orford

24 October 2008      

Portsmouth vs Fulham: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

Fratton Park holds happy memories for Fulham fans. On the last day of last season Danny Murphy scored the only goal of the game to ensure that Roy Hodgson's squad retained their Premiership status - and following Portsmouth's dismal showing in the UEFA Cup on Thursday, some people think Fulham will be celebrating again come Sunday evening.

Harry Redknapp is going to have to use all of his motivational skills to pick the players up following their disappointing 3-0 defeat at the hands of Braga on Thursday night and he'll want to see a positive response from his troops. However, as has been proven down the years, a lot of sides have struggled to adapt back to Premiership football following a midweek jaunt into Europe.

The one man that Redknapp can surely rely on though is Jermain Defoe. The former Spurs striker loves playing on the south coast and has scored in four out of five home games in all competitions. His partnership with Crouch is starting to shine and they are more than a handful for any team.

Fulham picked up their first point in four games last weekend against Sunderland, rather fortuitously some may say, and some people believe that they could capitalise on a weary Portsmouth side. However, Fulham, as has been their problem in recent years, have failed to win on the road so far this season and if Defoe and Crouch are on form, and Sol Campbell puts in a masterclass of defending like he did against Aston Villa, you'd have to fancy the points staying on the south coast.

	Portsmouth (7) v Fulham (17); Kick Off 5pm, October 26, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	4-0
	Dave Blackburn:	2-0
	Sue Gardener:	2-1
	Chris Goodwin:	2-0
	Paul Grech (sqf):	2-0
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	2-0
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	2-1
	Peter Lee:	2-0
	Don McMahon:	1-3
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	2-1
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	3-0
	Tony Ratton:	0-0
	Peter Rendle:	2-0
	Dan Taylor:	2-1
	Bill Urban (sqf):	2-0
	Andy Wakeman:	2-0
	Isaac Williams:	2-0
	Mark Williams:	2-1

Panel Verdict

Home 17; Draw 0; Away 1

The panel see this as being a stroll in the park for Portsmouth with 2-0 proving to be a popular prediction.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

West Ham United vs Arsenal: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

West Ham United go into Sunday's televised clash with Arsenal eager to get back to winning ways. The Hammers enjoyed two wins on the trot under new manager Gianfranco Zola - against Newcastle United and Fulham - but have since suffered back-to-back defeats - against Bolton Wanderers and Hull City - and have a tough week ahead of them with visits to Old Trafford and the Riverside coming up.

Now most clubs fear playing Arsenal, but the Hammers have a pretty decent record against the Gunners. Arsenal did do the double over them last season, but that was only after the Irons had recorded three wins on the bounce against the north London side. A return to that run of results will keep Zola sweet with the Upton Park faithful.

However, Arsenal return to domestic action following their thumping 5-2 win over Fenerbache in the Champions League and Arsene Wenger would love to see his young guns reproduce that form in the Premiership. Despite sitting fourth in the Premiership they have spluttered their way through the season so far. They were unconvincing against West Brom on the opening day which was closely followed by defeat at Fulham. They rediscovered their magic against Newcastle, Blackburn and Bolton before losing at home to Hull City and drawing away at Sunderland. We all know the Gunners can play the football but Adebayor definitely needs to find his scoring boots.

West Ham have a whole host of issues off the field to worry about, but if Gianfranco Zola can get the boys to do the buisness on the pitch that will keep the fans happy - and possibly attract a prospective owner to come forward.

	West Ham United (8) v Arsenal (4); Kick Off 4pm, October 26, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	1-1
	Dave Blackburn:	0-2
	Sue Gardener:	0-2
	Chris Goodwin:	0-4
	Paul Grech (sqf):	0-2
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	0-2
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	2-3
	Peter Lee:	0-2
	Don McMahon:	1-2
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	1-2
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	1-3
	Tony Ratton:	1-2
	Peter Rendle:	0-3
	Dan Taylor:	1-3
	Bill Urban (sqf):	1-3
	Andy Wakeman:	1-3
	Isaac Williams:	1-3
	Mark Williams:	2-2

Panel Verdict

Home 0; Draw 2; Away 16

The panel believes that this is going to be quite a convincing away win for the Gunners with 3-1 proving to be a popular prediction

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Squarefootball Diary - Sunday October 19 2008

It doesn't get any better if you are a Tottenham fan.  Juande Ramos's side remain rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table after going down 2-1 at Stoke City.

Gareth Bale and Michael Dawson are ordered off to add further misery for the north Londoners, who have only two points from eight league matches.  From the moment Bale is dismissed by referee Lee Mason for a professional foul on Tom Soares things look bleak for the White Hart Lane side. 

Danny Higginbotham nets the ensuing spot-kick to give Tony Pulis's side the lead, but Spurs hit back through Darren Bent's equaliser.  Rory Delap's 53rd minute goal proves crucial but there is still time for Ricardo Fuller to improbably hit both posts from another penalty kick, and for Delap to rattle the crossbar from the rebound.  In the dying moments Dawson sums it all up for Spurs, red-carded for a nasty challenge on Mamady Sidibe;

"As soon as we scored we took our foot off the pedal and we were garbage. The best thing that happened was half-time." says a hard-to-please Pulis, while the beleagured Ramos offers the blatantly untrue;

"It is impossible to play nearly all the match with one man less."

If Tottenham's slide is unexpected then it is no more so than Hull City's rise to a top four slot.  Phil Brown's men sneak by West Ham United courtesy of Michael Turner's header at the KC Stadium;

"We have conceded one goal in three games against quality opposition." says Brown, again, making Alan Hansen's obsession with defence look like a passing interest;

"I don't think that we deserved to lose but sometimes football is like that." retorts West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola.

The Sheffield derby is the centre of the Championship's universe this Sunday.  In a game not exactly peppered with quality it is Wednesday who take the spoils thanks to Steve Watson's first-half goal.  A miss-communication between United goalkeeper Paddy Kenny and defender Chris Morgan gives Watson an empty net to lob into, and gives the aforementioned Blades enough motive for an on-field tiff.  Earlier, Matthew Kilgannon is sent off for almost thinking about kicking Sean McAllister;

"If that's a sending off we might as well pack up and go home." says United boss Kevin Blackwell, folding his freshly ironed clothes before placing them neatly in a large suitcase;

"I have sympathy for Kevin Blackwell, because from where we were, which was very close, it looked a yellow card." admits Wednesday manager Brian Laws.

In League Two Port Vale earn what could be a crucial three points in the fight against the drop, seeing off fellow strugglers Chester City 2-1.

A point and a place separate Hibernian and Hearts in the SPL table after the pair draw 1-1 at Easter Road.  Hibs lie fourth after Steven Fletcher's early goal is cancelled by Bruno Aguiar's free kick moments before half-time.

By Stephen Orford

24 October 2008

 

Wigan Athletic vs Aston Villa: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

Wigan Athletic were actually one of my tips to go down this season - goes to show what I know about football - but despite all the plaudits that Steve Bruce's men, and Zaki in particular, have received so far it's important to remember that they have actually only won twice in this Premier League campaign. Yes they were unfortunate to lose against Middlesbrough and Liverpool but if you don't win you don't pick up points and we all know what points make . . . prizes!

Amr Zaki has made a huge impact on the Premiership and it's no surprise to see the big guns circling above the JJB waiting to pounce on him. Eight goals in 10 league and cup games is a fantastic return for anyone, but for a foreigner, who nobody had really heard much about, is a phenomenal feat. Wigan fans will also be worried about the fact that Emile Heskey has been talking about leaving once his contract has expired. However, Steve Bruce has to try and forget about all of that off the field interest and focus on Aston Villa.

The Villains have lost just twice this season and are sitting pretty in sixth place. They looked very impressive against Ajax in the UEFA Cup on Thursday night and Martin O'Neill has every right to believe that their decent run of form will continue against Wigan. However, the former Leicester City and Celtic boss shouldn't get too complacent. Wigan did after all beat Villa 2-0 in their last meeting thanks to a brace from Valencia. But at the JJB Stadium, Wigan have only recorded one win over their Midlands counterparts, 3-2 in April 2006.

There will be a wealth of talent on show at the JJB Stadium on Sunday and there should be a lot of goals.

	Wigan Athletic (14) v Aston Villa (6); Kick Off 3pm, October 26, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	1-1
	Dave Blackburn:	1-1
	Sue Gardener:	3-3
	Chris Goodwin:	1-0
	Paul Grech (sqf):	1-1
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	1-1
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	2-3
	Peter Lee:	1-2
	Don McMahon:	1-2
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	1-2
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	1-2
	Tony Ratton:	1-2
	Peter Rendle:	2-2
	Dan Taylor:	1-2
	Bill Urban (sqf):	2-1
	Andy Wakeman:	1-2
	Isaac Williams:	1-1
	Mark Williams:	2-2

Panel Verdict

Home 2; Draw 8; Away 8

With two attacking teams on show there should be plenty of goals in this one with the panel split between a Villa victory and a draw.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Manchester City vs Stoke City: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

Since thrashing Portsmouth 6-0 at the City of Manchester Stadium, Manchester City have failed to win in their last four domestic games - including being knocked out of the Carling Cup on penalties by Brighton & Hove Albion. They may be the richest club in the world but Mark Hughes is fully aware that there is much more to do on the pitch before they can truly realise the dreams of the new owner. 

However, Manchester City could get their season back on track against newly promoted Stoke City on Sunday. The Potters are 18th in the Premiership but will have been buoyed by their fine 2-1 win over rock-bottom Tottenham last weekend. The boys from the Britannia Stadium will also not fear a trip to Manchester having held the mighty Liverpool to a goalless draw.

Stoke City have surprised a few pundits who thought that they would be the whipping boys of the league. They've defeated Aston Villa and Spurs this season, drew with Liverpool and were unlucky to lose at home against Everton. Tony Pulis knows that his side is not the most talented in the division, but he plays to their strengths. It may not be pretty, but it is effective and gets results.

Manchester City, meanwhile, have been keeping their fans entertained by scoring in every Premiership game this season. Unfortunately, they have also conceded a good few also. Steven Ireland has been exceptional this season and the return of Shaun Wright-Phillips and the arrival of Robinho have lit up the club. However, it still doesn't escape the fact that they should never have lost their two goal lead at home against Liverpool and they also should have also seen off 10-men Newcastle on Monday night.

This will be the first encounter between the two sides for a decade. City won that match 2-1 and I'm sure Mark Hughes would take that right now.

	Manchester City (10) v Stoke City (18); Kick Off 3pm, October 26, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	2-1
	Dave Blackburn:	2-0
	Sue Gardener:	0-1
	Chris Goodwin:	0-0
	Paul Grech (sqf):	2-0
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	3-0
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	4-2
	Peter Lee:	3-0
	Don McMahon:	2-0
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	2-1
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	2-0
	Tony Ratton:	1-1
	Peter Rendle:	2-0
	Dan Taylor:	3-1
	Bill Urban (sqf):	1-0
	Andy Wakeman:	3-0
	Isaac Williams:	3-0
	Mark Williams:	2-0

Panel Verdict

Home 15; Draw 2; Away 1

Stoke City will not make it easy for Hughes's men but the panel believes that this will be a home banker.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Tottenham Hotspur vs Bolton Wanderers: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

White Hart Lane used to be an intimidating place for visiting teams - not this season though. Tottenham have made their worst start to a league campaign ever and they've managed to pick up just one point at home so far. Sunderland, Aston Villa and Hull City have all left north London with maximum points and, following their defeat in the UEFA Cup against Udinese, there's a strong feeling that Bolton will pile even more pressure on the under-fire Juande Ramos on Sunday.

It's hard to believe that Spurs, with the amount of talent that is at the club, are struggling so badly this season, especially when you consider how dominant they looked in pre-season. It doesn't help when you have one of the most erratic goalkeepers since Bruce Grobbelaar in between the sticks or that the boss continues to play Darren Bent up front on his own. The bright note for Spurs fans is that there has to be a turning point at some stage - they can't go on losing forever, can they?

Bolton are famed for their no-nonsense style of play and are undefeated in their last two games - which includes their impressive 3-1 win in the capital against West Ham United. Can they, like Hull City did, make it a capital double?

Tottenham are in for a real scrap on Sunday, but do they have the players that are prepared to roll up their sleeves and compete for every ball? I, personally, don't see them. To make matters even worse for Spurs, Bolton have taken more points off them and scored more goals against them than any other Premier League club. Bolton have defeated them twice at White Hart Lane in the past six years, Spurs have managed to keep just one clean sheet against the Trotters in the past decade and Bolton left the Lane with a point in their last encounter in April. As Spurs desperately seek their first win of the Premiership season, the omens are definitely not in their favour.

	Tottenham Hotspur (20) v Bolton Wanderers (15); Kick Off 3pm, October 26, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	2-0
	Dave Blackburn:	0-0
	Sue Gardener:	0-0
	Chris Goodwin:	0-1
	Paul Grech (sqf):	2-1
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	1-1
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	1-2
	Peter Lee:	1-1
	Don McMahon:	0-1
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	2-1
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	1-0
	Tony Ratton:	1-1
	Peter Rendle:	1-0
	Dan Taylor:	1-2
	Bill Urban (sqf):	0-1
	Andy Wakeman:	0-1
	Isaac Williams:	1-1
	Mark Williams:	1-1

Panel Verdict

Home 5; Draw 7; Away 6

This is arguably the tightest game of the weekend to call. The panel is split.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Chelsea vs Liverpool: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

It should be the game of the weekend as the Premiership's top two sides clash at Stamford Bridge, but having played each other so often in recent seasons there's a huge chance that this could be another game to forget.

Liverpool arrive at fortress Stamford Bridge having made their best start to a Premiership season since Rafa Benitez arrived on Merseyside, but this will be a huge test of their title credentials. Chelsea are firing on all cylinders at the moment and haven't conceded in their past six games. They tore Middlesbrough apart last weekend at the Riverside and the 5-0 scoreline really did flatter the home side - it could have easily been 9-0, such was the Blues' dominance.

The Reds meanwhile have shown their never-say-die attitude is still alive and kicking having come from behind to win in five games this season already. They have not looked as assured at the back as they have done in previous seasons, but they seem to have the knack of scoring right at the death.

Chelsea have gone 86 Premiership games without defeat at the Bridge but Xavi Alonso believes Liverpool have what it takes to shatter that record on Sunday - I don't think anyone has told the Spaniard that Liverpool have only recorded one triumph at the Bridge since 1989. But stranger things have happened and that amazing run has to end at some point and it would be typical Liverpool if they were to do it.

Chelsea v Liverpool games are notoriously tight and cagey affairs, but with Phil Scolari in charge we may, hopefully, see an end-to-end attacking spectacle.

	Chelsea (1) v Liverpool (2); Kick Off 1.30pm, October 26, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	1-1
	Dave Blackburn:	1-0
	Sue Gardener:	2-2
	Chris Goodwin:	2-1
	Paul Grech (sqf):	3-1
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	1-1
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	3-1
	Peter Lee:	1-1
	Don McMahon:	2-3
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	2-1
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	1-1
	Tony Ratton:	2-1
	Peter Rendle:	2-1
	Dan Taylor:	2-1
	Bill Urban (sqf):	2-0
	Andy Wakeman:	3-1
	Isaac Williams:	0-0
	Mark Williams:	0-0

Panel Verdict

Home 10; Draw 7; Away 1

Hopefully this will be a classic encounter, but the majority of the panel believes that this will be another blue day for Liverpool fans in west London.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Blackburn vs Middlesbrough: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

Getting beat by Chelsea is nothing to be ashamed about, but the manner in which Middlesbrough were carved open by the Premiership leaders last weekend was embarrassing. Gareth Southgate will have been seething at the toothless display by his troops, but that defeat will enable him to see exactly what his players are made of and I for one am expecting to see a positive reaction from them against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.

After a bright start Middlesbrough have struggled in recent weeks. Just one win in five is not acceptable for a team which has designs for European football. Neither is the fact that they have shipped 10 goals and only scored two in reply. Southgate needs to use all of his motivational skills and tactical nous to secure their second consecutive away win.

Blackburn on the other hand are doing much better than many pundits thought. Paul Ince has come in and, despite rumours of player unrest, has recorded three wins and two draws to see them sitting in the top half of the table. They have only lost twice at home this season - to Arsenal and Manchester United - so they should start as favourites. The fact that they haven't lost to Boro in their past seven league and cup competitions, home or away, also backs that up.

Blackburn achieved a hard-earned point against rivals Bolton last weekend and Ince will be keen to pile more pressure on his former England colleague. But there is nothing as dangerous in football as a wounded beast and Boro should be fired up for this one.

Benni McCarthy may be handed his first start under Paul Ince while Roque Santa Cruz is doubtful with a hamstring worry. It's all good news for Gareth Southgate as Tuncay may be available after overcoming a knee injury, Pogatetz has served his three-match ban and Alves and Digard could return to the starting line-up.

	Blackburn Rovers (9) v Middlesbrough (13); Kick Off 5.30pm, October 25, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	2-1
	Dave Blackburn:	1-0
	Sue Gardener:	1-1
	Chris Goodwin:	3-1
	Paul Grech (sqf):	1-1
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	1-1
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	2-3
	Peter Lee:	2-0
	Don McMahon:	1-2
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	2-1
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	0-0
	Tony Ratton:	1-1
	Peter Rendle:	1-1
	Dan Taylor:	2-1
	Bill Urban (sqf):	1-0
	Andy Wakeman:	2-0
	Isaac Williams:	2-2
	Mark Williams:	2-1

Panel Verdict

Home 9; Draw 6; Away 2

The panel believes that Paul Ince will inflict more pain on Gareth Southgate with only two pundits predicting a win for Middlesbrough.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Everton Vs Manchester United: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

There's never a good time to play Manchester United but Everton have more reasons to be worried than most. The Toffees have picked up just two points from a possible 12 at Goodison Park this season, they let a two goal lead slip against struggling Newcastle United last time out on Merseyside, and they have only recorded one victory over the Premiership champions and Champions League holders in the past 13 clashes at home. I think it's fair to say not too many people will be putting their hard earned cash on Everton recording their first home win of the campaign this weekend.

Everton's last win over United came in April 2005 when big Duncan Ferguson scored the only goal of the game, but you have to go back to August 1999 for the last time the Toffees got a share of the spoils against the Red Devils, courtesy of a Jaap Stam own goal.

The Toffees were unfortunate against Arsenal at the Emirates last weekend but David Moyes will be looking for more determination from his players against Rooney and co.

Manchester United on the other hand are in sublime form at the moment. They have won their past six games on the trot, scored 17 times and haven't conceded in their past five outings. Former Everton star Wayne Rooney has been on fire in recent weeks, bagging nine goals in seven games for club and country, and returns to Goodison looking to record his 100th professional career goal. For him it would mean the world to reach that milestone at the ground he worshipped as a boy, however, I'm sure the home fans will not be so appreciative if he were to score. But when you add Berbatov's tally of five in four and the fact that Ronaldo is nearing full fitness, then you realise how much pressure will be on the Everton defence.

Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra should be back in contention for United after missing their Champions League win over Celtic, but Paul Scholes and Owen Hargreaves are still out.

Tim Cahill is still suspended following his red card in the Merseyside derby but Yobo and Anichebe should be available while Tony Hibbert faces a late fitness test on his ankle.

	Everton (16) vs Manchester United (5); Kick Off 12noon, October 25, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	1-3
	Dave Blackburn:	0-2
	Sue Gardener:	0-2
	Chris Goodwin:	1-3
	Paul Grech (sqf):	1-3
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	1-2
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	1-4
	Peter Lee:	0-2
	Don McMahon:	2-3
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	0-2
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	1-3
	Tony Ratton:	1-3
	Peter Rendle:	1-3
	Dan Taylor:	1-2
	Bill Urban (sqf):	1-3
	Andy Wakeman:	0-2
	Isaac Williams:	1-2
	Mark Williams:	1-2

Panel Verdict

Home 0; Draw 0; Away 18

I think it's fair to say that the panel would put all of their worldly possessions on Manchester United beating the Toffees.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

West Bromwich Albion vs Hull City: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

Hull City's away form has been a major factor in the Tigers' success this season but West Brom will be looking to put a spanner in the works as they aim to bounce back from last weekend's 4-0 thrashing at Old Trafford in this weekend's only 3pm kick-off.

Phil Brown's men were victorious in the club's last meeting last season - 2-1 in February thanks to goals from Caleb Folan and Fraizer Campbell - but that was Hull's only victory at the Hawthorns in 34 years! However, similar statistics were put in front of City before they beat Arsenal, Spurs and Newcastle.

The Tigers are currently third in the Premiership, unbeaten in their past five outings and could join Chelsea and Liverpool at the top of the league if they beat the Baggies. However, West Brom are a potential banana skin.

The Baggies have won three of their last five games, two of which have come at home, and will be looking to push themselves further up the table. They will be smarting from their footballing lesson against Manchester United and will be keen to get back to winning ways.

West Brom will be without defender Abdoulaye Meite as he overcomes a calf strain while Hull City should be able to call on the services of Anthony Gardener.

	West Bromwich Albion (11) v Hull City (3); Kick Off 3pm, October 25, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	1-1
	Dave Blackburn:	1-2
	Sue Gardener:	0-0
	Chris Goodwin:	2-2
	Paul Grech (sqf):	1-0
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	1-1
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	3-2
	Peter Lee:	1-2
	Don McMahon:	0-1
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	1-1
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	1-1
	Tony Ratton:	3-2
	Peter Rendle:	1-1
	Dan Taylor:	2-2
	Bill Urban (sqf):	1-1
	Andy Wakeman:	2-0
	Isaac Williams:	1-1
	Mark Williams:	1-1

Panel Verdict

Home 4; Draw 11; Away 3

Despite Hull's incredible away record only three people on the panel think that the Tigers will continue their unbeaten run, with the majority favouring a draw.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Sunderland vs Newcastle United: Premiership Prediction Panel 2008/09 - preview and predictions

What a time it would be for Joe Kinnear to record his first win as Newcastle boss. The Tyne-Wear derby is one of the most passionate fixtures in the football calendar and neither side will want to lose this one. But if Kinnear was to leave the Stadium of Light victorious his place in Newcastle folklore would be secured.

The Geordies, like the rest of the world, may have laughed when they discovered the former Wimbledon boss was taking temporary charge of their club, but there has been a visible improvement in the Magpies on the pitch. Against Everton they went 2-0 down but showed their steel to come back to draw 2-2, and on Monday night, having played 80 minutes with 10 men, they were just five minutes away from beating the richest team in the world (Manchester City).

Meanwhile, Roy Keane's Sunderland have not enjoyed the rub of the green recently with Kieran Richardson hitting the woodwork three times last weekend against Fulham and having his free-kick chalked off by the referee. But the Black Cats are picking up points, are unbeaten in their past two games, and currently find themselves in 12th place.

However, Sunderland have only won once at home this season - 2-0 v Middlesbrough - and it's been 28 years since they last savoured victory over their rivals in Sunderland. In fact their last win over Newcastle came in November 2000 when Niall Quinn and Don Hutchinson scored in a 2-1 win at St James' Park, so a Newcastle win isn't truly out of the equation.

Striker Kenwyne Jones should feature at some stage for Sunderland and Nyron Nosworthy is back following a hamstring tear. Newcastle are without Michael Owen, but Joey Barton and Jonas Gutierrez may play some part for the Magpies.

	Sunderland (12) v Newcastle United (19); Kick Off 12.45pm, October 25, 2008
	Prediction Panel
	Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

	Tony Bellew:	2-1
	Dave Blackburn:	1-1
	Sue Gardener:	1-1
	Chris Goodwin:	1-1
	Paul Grech (sqf):	2-2
	Hugh Larkin (sqf):	2-2
	Colin Illingworth (sqf):	2-3
	Peter Lee:	1-1
	Don McMahon:	1-0
	Antony Melvin (sqf):	1-1
	Stephen Orford (sqf):	2-2
	Tony Ratton:	2-2
	Peter Rendle:	1-2
	Dan Taylor:	3-2
	Bill Urban (sqf):	2-2
	Andy Wakeman:	1-1
	Isaac Williams:	2-1
	Mark Williams:	2-1

Panel Verdict

Home 5; Draw 11; Away 2

Derby games are always fraught affairs but the panel sees plenty of goals to keep the fans entertained. The majority believe this will end up a draw.

* Do we have it right or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it.

Anyone interested in joining the panel should contact us using the form below

Big FA Cup Weekend in Oxford

FA Cup 4th Qualifying weekend is particularly exciting for football fans in the city of Oxford as both of their premier non-League teams have home draws and a big chance of making the FA Cup proper.

A victory over Hayes & Yeading would be a welcome boost for Oxford United who have found life tough in the Blue Square Premier after dropping out of the Football League unexpectedly in 2006. It is only 22 years since the club were winning the League Cup at Wembley so their fall has been considerable.

Thier rise was also dramatic. In 1960 Headingrton United changed their name to Oxford and propelled by the combative Ron Atkinson they gained elevation to the Football League in 1962 and have been the dominant club in the university city ever since, usurping their rivals.

For many years Oxford City were not only a top club in their home city. Pre WW1 they were three times finalists in the FA Amateur Cup, putting them in the elite non-League side in the country. They maintained a status in the the Isthmian League for decades while Headington only reached similar levels from 1950.

After years watching United in the scale the heights in the Football League there are now just two divisions between the sides as City operate in the British Gas (Southern League) Premier division, after promotion last season. This weekend City entertain Eastbourne Borough from the Blue Square Premier, so they won't begin their tie as favourites.

City will take heart from Eastbourne's moderate form in the Blue Square- like Oxford United they are well down in the bottom half. Hayes & Yeading are going well in Blue Square South so they will fancy their chances of getting a result at United.

Oxford City's visits to the FA Cup proper have been infrequent-just 5 times in their history- while their rivals enjoyed automatic involvement from 1962 and still have just one qualifier to get through as a Blue Square Premier club. It would be some achievement for City to progress farther in this competition for once.

It's a tough ask for both clubs to make progress but if they do it would open the prospect of a unique meeting in the First Round. City would have a score to settle as they met the former Headington United 3 times in qualifiers the 1950s -and lost on each occasion.

Maidstone and AFC Wimbledon Fans Deserve An FA Cup Place

This weekend sees the 4th Qualifying Round of the FA Cup when the non-League sides are just one victory away from the First Round proper of the competition. One of the standout ties is Maidstone United hosting AFC Wimbledon.

The reason is that these are two sets of supporters who deserve a chance for nationwide publicity, as both clubs have made stunning returns from decidely unpromising positions. In each case they offer inspiring examples of how a football club can endure and survive in their community, despite hammer blows from fortune.

AFC Wimbledon's story is the more well known. The club were formed by refusenik fans after their club was removed to Milton Keynes against their wishes. Starting life way down the non-League pyramid, they have clawed their way to the Blue Square South in only 6 years (just two steps from League football) and kept alive the club name.

Maidstone fans also know what it's like to have their club ripped apart. In 1989 the  Stones were actually the premier non-League side in England, which won them promotion to the Football League. For a time all went well but the club had begun with problems about the acceptability of their ground for League football.

Sharing with Dartford was the solution but in just 3 years Maidstone had hit such a downward financial spiral that the club folded. Like Wimbledon, committed fans revived the name and Maidstone reappeared way down the Pyramid in the Kent County League. Even now they have to play in Sittingbourne.

Despite this handicap- it's has taken a bit longer than AFC 's rise -the Stones are now back at Ryman Premier level and pitching with the elite of non-League again.

In the Maidstone ranks is a player who connects both clubs. Ian Selley, who once won a European Cup-Winners Cup medal with Arsenal, had a brief spell with the old Wimbledon in the Premirship; at the time the midfielder was trying to rebuld a career blighted by injury. Now it's AFC who stand between him and another crack at the FA Cup.

Both clubs are a demonstration of the passion and commitment to be found in non-League football. It's a shame that only one of them can survive to the First Round proper  but each team has made massive strdes in a very short time.

Portsmouth stand a decent chance of topping Group E

With the UEFA Cup whenever one of the most successful teams is involved (in recent seasons Liverpool, Bayern Munich and this year AC Milan) the money will follow them.  But the status of the club does not necessarily equate to a motivated team in the early stages.  There is little doubt that Milan will qualify from Group E - but do they justify odds on favouritism to top the group on current form?

Fifth in Serie A last season and seventh so far this for Milan, compares to Portsmouth in a stronger Premier League of eighth last season and seventh this.  There is no need for any kind of inferiority complex at Fratton Park.

For Portsmouth the group fixtures have fallen well if they wish to top the group.  With a game against outsiders Braga unlikely to give too much to the Milan scouts and setting the scene for the game that should decide the group winners on 27th November at home to Milan.  If Portsmouth can get a win tonight then they will offer excellent value at 100/30 to win the group.

Group E Odds (William Hill)
8/13 A C Milan
10/3 Portsmouth
6/1 Wolfsburg
12/1 Heerenveen, Braga

Should Tottenham start Group D as favourites?

An early kick-off for Spurs in Udine with the London side priced as favourites for the group despite the most desultory start to the season in the club's history.  The reason for the favouritism is easy to judge, Spurs always attract a lot of money and English clubs are generally marked a bit higher.  The balance of the fixtures also suggest that Spurs should qualify for the knock-out stages - but form doesn't suggest that they will win the group.

With Udinese currently second in Serie A and meeting Spurs in as much good form as Tottenham has bad the expectation has to be that Udinese will prevail; add to this that Udinese should win in Nijmegan and at home to Zagreb - only the trip to Moscow is particularly difficult.

Before the group starts Udinese look good value at 2/1 to win the group

Group Odds (William Hill)
13/8 Tottenham 
2/1 Udinese
3/1 Spartak Moscow 
9/1 Dinamo Zagreb 
10/1 N E C Nijmegen

UEFA Rankings (provisional)
29 Tottenham Hotspur
62 Spartak Moscow
66 Udinese
122 Dinamo Zagreb
130 NEC Nijmegen

David Beckham has everything to gain in Milan

To read some comments on David Beckham it would appear that he is already finished. The truth is that he is fresh and rested from his time in America - and has the quality to thrive in Serie A.

The acid test of whether players are actually finished is surely when good managers stop picking them. And since Beckham earned a recall towards the back-end of Steve McClaren's tenure he has been pretty much a fixture in Fabio Capello's squads; eager to accept whatever bit part role that he is offered. This aspect of his personality will be useful in Italy where he may well be asked to play as an impact substitute or out of position. Also the very fact that Milan has moved for Beckham says something.

To be fair Beckham could probably play in Los Angeles until he is 40 as some kind of latter-day Stanley Matthews (admittedly without the ability to go past his full-back). But more interestingly a couple of years away from the debilitating grind of English or Spanish football has done him good. His niggling injuries have cleared up and he is fresh and enthusiastic.

In much the same way the Henrik Larsson came back on loan from Helsingborgs IF to win a Premier League winners medal for Manchester United, Beckham could spinkle a bit of stardust on the already starry AC Milan. And I wouldn't rule out another winners medal in Italy to go with the ones gained with Real Madrid and Manchester United.

This move could also keep Beckham in the running for a squad place for the 2010 World Cup, which England now seem certain to qualify for. A proposition which seemed almost laughable amidst the wreckage of Beckham's resignation speech in 2006.

Squarefootball Diary - Wednesday October 15 2008

England walk their well trodden path from also-rans to world-beaters with a 3-1 victory in Belarus in World Cup qualifying Group 6.

The win marks the first time that an England side has won it's first four opening World Cup qualifiers and gives Fabio Capello's side a five-point cushion at the top of the group.  Steven Gerrard joins the debate on himself and Frank Lampard by piling in a 30-yarder to open the scoring and laying on the third for Wayne Rooney before somehow contriving to hit the post with the goal at his mercy late on.  In between times, Emile Heskey briefly morphs into Jairzinho, jinking down the left to lay on Rooney's first before Pavel Sitko netted a well-worked equaliser;

"In the first half Belarus played very well, but in the second half we played better and the result is fantastic." pronounces Capello.

Croatia beat Andorra 4-0 to revive their hopes, but it is the Ukraine who remain England's closest challengers despite not playing this evening.

For more home success we look towards Ireland, where the Republic and Northern Ireland both earn wins.  A Robbie Keane goal helps the Republic past an old foe in Cyprus, while Nigel Worthington's side are rather more dominant in disposing of San Marino 4-0;

"I want to congratulate the players because they played the final minutes with so much heart." claims Giovanni Trapattoni, while Worthington remarks;

"Yes, it's San Marino and we'll not get carried away, but it's really great to get three points."

Ireland are now second in Group 8, three points behind Italy who win 2-1 at home to Montenegro.  Bulgaria have work to do after drawing goallessly in Georgia. 

Northern Ireland are fourth in Group 3, still five points off the pace being set by Slovakia after their 2-1 success over Poland.  The Czech Republic beat Slovenia 1-0 to keep alive their realistic chances of heading to South Africa.

Wales' chances of making the World Cup finals are as slim as ever they were following a not unsurprising 1-0 defeat by Germany in Monchengladbach.  Piotr Trochowski rattles in the only goal of the game 18 minutes from time to break Welsh hearts and leave Germany in total control of Group 4;

"I could not have asked for any more from the lads. They gave everything, but just came up short again." is John Toshack's probably memorised post-game statement.

Russia climb above the Welsh after beating Finland 3-0. 

With Scotland not in action we move swiftly to the round-up, and Group 1.  Portugal are making hard work of their qualification campaign, yet a 0-0 draw at home to Albania somehow keeps them just two points off the pace.  The group is led by Denmark but only on goal difference from Hungary who win 1-0 in Malta.

Greece have the edge in Group 2 despite going down 2-1 at home to Switzerland.  The Swiss' victory moves them within two of the Greeks, with the pair separated by Israel following their 1-1 draw in Latvia.  Also-rans Luxembourg and Moldova cannot manage a goal between them.

Spain have a four-point cushion in Group 5 thanks to their 2-1 triumph in Belgium.  The Belgians are leap-frogged into second by Turkey who nevertheless will be disappointed that they could only draw 0-0 in Estonia.  Don't discount Bosnia-Herzegovina just yet after a 4-1 flaying of Armenia.

Serbia and Lithuania look all set to fight out Group 7.  The pair lead the way by five points after victories in Austria (3-1) and at home to the Faroe Island's (1-0) respectively.  More worryingly for the Lithuanians they needed to wait until the 88th minute to break the deadlock against the northern European minnows.

Holland are the target for Scotland to chase when they resume competetive action.  The Dutch lead Group 9 by five points from the Scots and Iceland after winning 1-0 in Norway.  Iceland beat Macedonia by the same score but have played a game more than the two sides above them.

By Stephen Orford

20 October 2008

 

Fulham vs Sunderland: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Preview to follow

Fulham vs Sunderland; Kick Off 3:00pm 18 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 1 - 3
Dave Blackburn : TBC - TBC
Sue Gardener : 0 - 1
Chris Goodwin : 1 - 1
Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 2
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 2 - 1
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 0 - 1
Peter Lee : 1 - 2
Don McMahon : 1 - 0
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 1 - 0
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 2
Tony Ratton : 1 - 2
Peter Rendle : 1 - 1
Dan Taylor : 2 - 2
Bill Urban (sqf) : 1 - 1
Andy Wakeman : 0 - 0
Isaac Williams : 2 - 1
Mark Williams : 1 - 1

Panel Verdict
Probably the most difficult game on the card to predict; a Sunderland win is marginally more popular than a draw or a Fulham win.

Home: 4; Draw: 6; Away: 7; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better?  Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

Bolton Wanderers vs Blackburn Rovers: Premier League Prediction Panel 2008/9 - preview and predictions

Preview to follow

Bolton Wanderers vs Blackburn Rovers; Kick Off 03:00pm 18 Oct 2008

Prediction Panel
Our panel contains both Squarefootball writers and readers, the writers are marked: (sqf).

Tony Bellew : 0 - 0
Dave Blackburn : TBC - TBC
Sue Gardener : 0 - 1
Chris Goodwin : 1 - 2
Paul Grech (sqf) : 1 - 0
Colin Illingworth (sqf) : 1 - 2
Hugh Larkin (sqf) : 0 - 0
Peter Lee : 2 - 1
Don McMahon : 1 - 1
Antony Melvin (sqf) : 0 - 0
Stephen Orford (sqf) : 1 - 0
Tony Ratton : 1 - 1
Peter Rendle : 1 - 0
Dan Taylor : 2 - 1
Bill Urban (sqf) : 1 - 1
Andy Wakeman : 1 - 1
Isaac Williams : 1 - 0
Mark Williams : 0 - 0

Panel Verdict
The largest minority of panelists is backing a draw - this game is too close to call.

Home: 6; Draw: 8; Away: 3; TBC: 1;

* Do we have it right, or do you know better?  Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!