Every year FIFA honor the goal of the year with the Puskás Award. Great Dane Football Blog has taken a look at the goals, and found what we think are the 5 best. Remember to vote before December 9th! 







5. Juan Manuel Olivera


4. Lisa De Vanna


3. Peter Ankersen


2. Panagiotis Kone


1. Zlatan Ibrahimovic


Remember to vote befroe the 9th December HERE
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The transfer window is coming closer, and new names are being linked to join the Premier League. Great Dane Football Blog gives you an update from the papers!

New Crystal Palace boss Tony Pulis is ready with a £6m move for Blackburn Rovers striker Jordan Rhodes (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Readings Alex McCarty can replace Tim Krul if Newcastle lose their Dutch goalkeeper (Daily Star) - Probability: Medium

Manchester City wants Asmir Begovic as the new number one and will offer £15m PLUS Joe Hart on loan (The Mirror) - Probability: Low

Liverpool and Manchester United is facing competetion from AC Milan in the race to sign Atletico Madrid Koke (Daily Star) - Probability: Medium

Halmstads' Swedish teenage striker Valmir Berisha has revealed that Liverpool, Spurs, Sunderland and Celtic are trying to sign him (Daily Express) - Probability: Medium

Sevilla left-back Alberto Moreno is being linked with Chelsea and Manchester United (Daily Mail) - Probability: Medium

Liverpool are once again preparing a bid for Chelsea back Ryan Bertrand, with the Blues likely to demand £8m (Daily Telegraph) - Probability: High

West Ham and Newcastle are being linked with a move for Chris Samba, who is siad to be homesick (Daily Express) - Low








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Crystal Palace took three crucial points against Hull and Manchester City humiliated Spurs last week. However, all of this is forgotten when the 13nd round of the Premier League takes off this weekend. Here, are Great Dane Football Blogs predictions!


Norwich v Crystal Palace
Carrow Road
30-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK









Norwich (4-2-3-1): Ruddy; Martin, Bennett, Turner, Garrido; Fer, Howson; Redmond, Elmander, Olsson; Hooper.

Injuries: Elliott Bennett (Knee), Mark Bunn (Ankle), Anthony Pilkington (Hamstring), Robert Snodgrass (Knee), Alexander Tettey (Ankle), Ricky van Wolfswinkel (Foot). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Crystal Palace (4-2-3-1): Speroni; Ward, Gabbidon, Delaney, Moxey; Dikgacoi, Jedinak; Puncheon, Bannan, Thomas; Chamakh.

Injuries: Adlene Guédioura (Rib), Jack Hunt (Ankle), Glen Murray (Knee). Doubts: Patrick McCarthy (Lack of match fitness), Marouane Chamakh (Head), Jerome Thomas (Groin). Bans: Yannick Bolasie.

Norwich lost against Newcastle last week due to some personal mistakes in the defends. The Canaries will be hoping to get back against Crystal Palace, but news of injuries to Anthony Pilkington and Robert Snodgrass means that Norwich will have to reshuffle This means that Javier Garrido probably will take the left back pushing Martin Olsson forward to the wing. Crystal Palace took a rare win when they met Hull City last week. Minutes Yannick Bolasie was sent off Barry Bannan scored the single goal in the 1-0 victory. Historically, Crystal Palace have a history of winning against Norwich with 6 victories in the last 10 meetings. Given Norwich current form CP could as well take another win Saturday.

Aston Villa v Sunderland
Villa Park
30-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK










Aston Villa (4-3-3): Guzan; Bacuna, Baker, Vlaar, Clark; Westwood, El Ahmadi, Delph; Weimann, Benteke, Agbonlahor.

Injuries: Joe Bennett (Back), Gary Gardner (Back), Charles N'Zogbia (Achilles), Jores Okore (Knee). Doubts: Antonio Luna (Hamstring). Bans: None.

Sunderland (4-2-3-1): Mannone; Celustka, O'Shea, Roberge, Bardsley; Ki, Colback; Giaccherini, Larsson, Johnson; Fletcher.

Injuries: None. Doubts: Kieren Westwood (Knock). Bans: None.

Sunderland have been successful with their appeal after Wes Brown wrongly received a red card against Stoke, and the defender will start against Aston Villa. The Black Cats have both Dossena and Cattermole back from their bans, but Ki and Colback are likely to remain as starters on Saturday. Villa managed to comeback from 2-0 against West Brom last week and are favourites against Sunderland. Last time the two sides met Aston Villa won 6-1 with a hattrick by Christian Benteke and the Belgian will be decisive in this match, as well.

Cardiff v Arsenal
Cardiff City Stadium
30-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK










Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Sagna, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs; Arteta, Ramsey; Rosicky, Ozil, Wilshere; Giroud.

Injuries: Abou Diaby (Knee), Ryo Miyaichi (Hamstring), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Knee), Lukas Podolski (Hamstring), Yaya Sanogo (Back). Doubts: Mikel Arteta (Knock), Kieran Gibbs (Illness), Gedion Zezalem (Lack of match fitness). Bans: None. 

Cardiff City (4-3-3): Marshall; Théophile-Catherine, Caulker, Turner, Taylor; Whittingham, Medel, MutchM Cowie, Campbell, Odemwingie.

Injuries: None. Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Arsenals week have so far been successful with a 2-0 win against Southampton last Saturday, with Giroud scoring both goals. Midweek, Arsenal took another 2-0 win; this time against Marseille and by two goals from Jack Wilshere. Meanwhile, Cardiff have been able to rest after their late equaliser against Manchester United last week. While Arsenal is struggling on the injury front, Cardiff have all men ready when The Gunners visits Wales. Arsenal might have played a midweek match, but their current form and position in the league makes them the favorites. That said, Cardiff have shown that they can tease the big clubs this season.

West Ham v Fulham
Upton Park
30-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK










West Ham United (4-3-3): Jääskeläinen; Demel, Tomkins, Collins, O'Brien; Morrison, Diamé, Noble; Downing, Nolan, Jarvis.

Injuries: Andy Carroll (Foot), Winston Reid (Ankle), Ricardo Vaz Te (Shoulder). Doubts: Mladen Petric (Calf), Razvan Rat (Hamtring). Bans: None.

Fulham (4-2-3-1): Stekelenburg; Zverotic, Hughes, Amorebieta, Richardson; Parker, Sidwell; Ruiz, Berbatov, Kasami; Bent.

Injuries: Matthew Briggs (Hernia), Damien Duff (Knock), Brede Hangeland (Leg), Hugo Rodallega (Groin). Doubts: None. Bans: Sascha Riether.

West Ham is preparing for another London derby after losing 0-3 to Chelsea last week. Their opponent on Saturday, Fulham FC, also lost in the last round when they were beaten 1-2 by Swansea at Craven Cottage. Joey O'Brien and James Tomkins will cover the defends with Razvan Rat and Winston Reid still injured for West Ham. The two clubs are side by side in the table with 10 points for 12 matches; a West Ham loss will send them into the relegation zone while Fulham can get clear with three points. Despite losing their last two matches, West Ham are favorites as they have a history of six wins in the last ten meetings with Fulham. Furthermore, Fulham have not won in their last five matches.

Everton v Stoke City
Goodison Park
30-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK










Everton (4-3-3): Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Oviedo; Barkley, McCarthy, Barry; Mirallas, Lukaku, Pienaar.

Injuries: Leighton Baines (Toe), Darron Gibson (Knee), Arouna Koné (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Stoke City (4-2-3-1): Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Huth, Pieters; Palacios, N'Zonzi; Walters, Ireland, Arnautovic; Crouch.

Injuries: None. Doubts: Stephen Ireland (Foot), Kenwyne Jones (Shoulder), Marc Wilson (Hip). Bans: None.

Everton is without Leighton Baines after he fractured his toe against Liverpool last week. Bryan Oviedo or Gareth Barry will take over for the England international. The Toffees played well against Liverpool, and especially Barkley was a key player and is expected to keep his high level against Stoke. The Potters took a 2-0 victory against Sunderland and can add distance to the relegation play with a win on Saturday. However, Everton is in super form at the moment and are favorites for the win.

Newcastle v West Brom
St James' Park
30-11-2013 @ 17.30 UK










Newcastle United (4-4-2): Krul; Debuchy, Coloccini, Williamson, Santon; Sissoko, Tioté, Cabaye, Gouffran; Ameobi, Remy.

Injuries: Ryan Taylor (Knee). Doubts: Yohan Cabaye (Hamstring). Bans: None.

West Bromwich Albion (4-2-3-1): Myhill; Reid, McAuley,Olsson, Popov; Yacob, Mulumbu; Amalfitano, Sessegnon, Brunt; Anichebe.

Injuries: Ben Forster (Foot), Zoltán Gera (Knock), Billy Jones (Hamstring). Doubts: Liam Ridgewell (Calf), Scott Sinclair (Hamstring). Bans: None.

Newcastle have Debuchy back on the defends after having served his ban, and that could be the only big change to the side since last week. Shola Ameobi made a good figure against Norwich and will retain his place next to The Toons topscorer Loïc Remy. West Bromwich had to settle with 2-2 after being in front by two at half time against Aston Villa, and will have to improve for this match. The last ten matches between the two sides have ended in four draws and three wins for each. However, given Newcastle's current form they are favorites.

Tottenham v Manchester United
White Hart Lane
01-12-2013 @ 12.00 UK










Tottenham Hotspurs (4-2-3-1): Lloris; Walker, Dawson, Kaboul, Vertonghen; Sandro, Paulinho; Lamela, Holtby, Lennon; Soldado.

Injuries: Christian Eriksen (Ankle), Danny Rose (Ankle). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Smalling, Evans, Ferdinand, Evra; Cleverley, Fellaini; Valencia, Rooney, Kagawa; van Persie.

Injuries: Michael Carrick (Achilles). Doubts: Darren Fletcher (Lack of match fitness), Phil Jones (Groin), Shinji Kagawa (Foot), Rafael (Ankle), Robin van Persie (Groin), Nemanja Vidic (Head).

Tottenham had a promising start to the season but have since dropped to a 9th in the Premier League. After last weeks,  0-6 massacre in Manchester André Villa-Boas future is uncertain according to several media why a loss on Sunday can cost him his job. Despite being substituted off during half time, Lewis Holtby is expected to retain his place on the attacking midfield. Manchester United are unbeaten in their last five matches after the 2-2 draw against West Brom last week. With a win,  they can bring themselves into top 5, and the history speaks for three points to Manchester. Of the last 10 matches between the two sides, United have won 7.

Hull v Liverpool
KC Stadium
01-12-2013 @ 14.05 UK









Hull City (4-2-3-1): McGregor; Elmohamady, Figueroa, Davies, Rosenior; Huddlestone, Livermore; Koren, Brady, Boyd; Sagbo.

Injuries: Sone Aluko (Achilles), James Chester (Hamstring), Stephen Quinn (Hamstring). Doubts: Paul McShane (Hamstring). Bans: None. 

Liverpool (4-4-2): Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Flanagan; Henderson, Gerrard, Lucas, Coutinho; Suárez, Sturridge.

Injuries: Iago Aspas (Thigh), Sebastián Coates (Knee), Enrique (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Daniel Sturridge is likely to return to the starting XI after recovering from his injury and coming in scoring the equalising goal against Everton last week. Liverpool needs three points to keep up with Arsenal on the 1st and is without a doubt favorites against Hull. The Tigers surprisingly lost against Crystal Palace last week and will run into even bigger problems on Sunday. Paul McShane is out for the match and will be replaced by Liam Rosenior, pushing Figueroa into the central defends. The last meeting between the two sides was friendly in 2011 where Hull won 3-0. However, this is very unlikely to happen again.

Manchester City v Swansea
City of Manchester Stadium
01-12-2013 @ 16.10 UK










Manchester City (4-4-2): Hart; Zabaleta, Nastasic, Demichelis, Clichy; Navas, Touré, Fernandinho, Nasri; Aguero, Negredo.

Injuries: Stevan Jovetic (Calf), Vincent Kompany (Thigh), Jack Rodwell (Knock), David Sila (Knock), Richard Wright (Knock). Doubts: Aleksandar Kolarov (Illness), Matija Nastasic (Knock). Bans: None.

Swansea City (4-2-3-1): Vorm; Rangel, Williams, Chico, Davies; De Guzmán, Britton; Dyer, Pozuelo, Lamah; Bony.

Injuries: Pablo Hernández (Thigh), Michu (Ankle), Garry Monk (Knee), Alan Tate (Hamstring). Doubts: Wayne Routledge (Calf). Bans: None.

Manchester City took a convincing three points against Spurs with a 6-0 win last week. Sergio Aguero and Jesus Navas both scored two goals in the match. Meanwhile, the opponent on Sunday, Swansea, won 2-1 against Fulham at Craven Cottage and are now unbeaten in three matches including their Europa League clash with Kuban. Manchester City have won two of the last four matches between the two sides and are favorites for another win this Sunday.

Chelsea v Southampton
Stamford Bridge
01-12-2013 @ 16.10 UK










Chelsea (4-3-2-1): Cech; Ivaovic, Terry, Cahill, Azpilicueta; Ramires, Mikel, Lampard; Oscar, Hazard; Eto'o.

Injuries: Tomas Kalas (Leg), Marco van Ginkel (Knee). Doubts: Samuel Eto'o (Knock), David Luiz (Knee). Bans: None. 

Southampton (4-2-3-1): Boruc; Clyne, Fonte, Lovren, Shaw; Schneiderlin, Wanyama; Ward-Prowse, Lallana, Rodriguez; Lambert.

Injuries: Jack Cork (Ankle), Guilherme Do Prado (Knee). Doubts: Dejan Lovren (Illness), Luke Shaw (Knock). Bans: None.

Chelsea are only four points behind Arsenal after winning the London derby against West Ham last week while Southampton lost against Arsenal at Emirates. Artur Boruc will remain in the Southampton goal despite his fatal error last week, and Dejan Lovren is likely to return after an illness. Southampton won the last meeting between the two sides and have shown an improving form this season. However, Chelsea are favorites at Stamford Bridge and are expected to take all three points on Monday.
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  • Name: Kasper Kusk
  • Age: 22 (10-11-1991)
  • Position: Wing
  • Club: Aalborg BK
  • International Caps:
    • Denmark A
      • 4 matches / 0 goals
    • Denmark U21
      • 6 matches / 0 goals
    • Denmark U20
      • 3 matches / 0 goals
    • Danish National League team
      • 2 matches / 0 goals
  • Value: £875.000
His father, Søren Kusk, was not only a player but also manager for Aalborg BK; Now the next generation of the Kusk family is one of the most prominent names in the current squad. This week we keep an eye on AaB's Kasper Kusk.

While many players have been marked as talents from the day the tied their boots for the first time, the story is different for Kusk. Since joining Aalborg as 14-year-old, he had to fight to be a part of the youth teams. As the Chief of Talent development in Aalborg, Poul Erik Andreasen, said to Tipsbladet.dk earlier this year:

"He has been fighting for five-six-seven years, where he often was a reserve. It is a long time to be less physical, slower than the others and a head lower. It is well done, and a great part of the reason why we are so happy to see him make a breakthrough."

Kasper Kusk sees his way to the status as Superliga player and profile in Aalborg as a long process:

“During my youth time wasn’t between the ten of eleven best players in the club, so I was forced to train extra and train by myself to develop some of the skills I was missing. It meant that I had to spend some extra time on the training ground, and it wasn’t the best time of my life, but I believe it has strengthened me and helped me work harder."

But, Kusk managed to breakthrough in Aalborg and found his place as a winger, a position he has been able to keep. The young talent took both the fans and the media with storm scoring eight goals last autumn, but after last season's Christmas break Kusk had problems finding the net. Suddenly he was doubted on against, and especially the media were hard to the starlet. However, Kusk takes the dry scoring period with calmness:

"You learn when sometimes things doesn’t go your way, and there is no doubt I would have loved to score goals last spring, but it wasn’t to be. I think most footballers experience an up and down period, and I have learned from it.”

This season Kusk has, unlike the strikers in Aalborg, managed to find the back of the net scoring seven goals so far. Three of them against Randers two weeks ago adding to his 20 goals in 67 matches for Aalborg. However, the stress that the fans shouldn't expect him to score every time and that it is up to the strikers in the club. That said, he admits that his self-confidence raises every time he sees the ball cross the line.

The current form from Kusk and his teammates has brought them to the top of the Danish Superliga second to FC Midtjylland on the first. While some might consider Aalborg as a contestant for the trophy this season, Kusk is more humble:

“We play well and we have some young players performing on a high level, but there is no doubt there will come some qualified teams from behind who wants to be a part of the top, so we are not the favorites.
“We will do what we can, but there will be hard matches and we will have our problems," Kusk says.

The talent had his debut for the Danish national team against Georgia at Aalborg Stadium, but it is not until this season he has been called up regularly by Morten Olsen. So far he can add four caps to his CV, but if the winger keeps playing his best in Aalborg, he will be a part of the future of the Danish national team.

“The most important is to play well for your club, and then grab the chance when you get it for the national team," Kusk says.

The good play for Aalborg have also opened the eyes for the winger around Europe. During the summer, Kusk was linked with moves to clubs as Anderlecht, Crystal Palace and Lille. Earlier this week, Allan Gaarde, Sport Director in Aalborg admitted that the golden boy might leave in the winter transfer window, but not for any price. Kusk himself is not so sure about leaving Aalborg in January:

“I feel good in Aalborg, and have been in Aalborg my entire life so I could see myself staying here for longer. That said, if the right offer come from an interesting club, then I will consider it.
"But I feel good in Aalborg and it will be interesting to see how far this team can go,” the starlet ends the interview.












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After Sweden lost the World Cup Playoff against Portugal, Zlatan Ibrahimovic said the World Cup is not worth watching without him. We love Zlatan, so here is five of his best quotes to make up for his absent in Brazil.


5. Zlatan's reaction after Sweden being eliminated from Euro 2012:

"I don't give a shit who wins, I'm going on holiday."

4. After being criticised by John Carew:

"What Carew does with a football, I can do with an orange."

3. On refusing a trial at Arsenal:

"Arsene Wenger asked me to have a trial with Arsenal when I was 17. I turned it down. Zlatan doesn't do auditions."

2. On rumours he had bought a porsche:

"Absolutely not. I ordered a plane . It is much faster."

1. When a female reporter asked if he was gay:

"Come over to my house baby, and bring your sister. I'll show you who's gay!"





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Rumours and gossip - We love it! Great Dane Football Blog have selected the most interesting Premier League transfer rumours from this weeks papers and brings you an update!

Aston Villa and Newcastle are on red alert over the news of Spurs midfielder Mousa Dembele, reportedly unsettled at White Hart Lane (Daily Express) - Probability: Low

Sunderland is keeping an eye on Swedish wonder boy Valmir Berisha (Shields Gazette) - Probability: Low

Cardiff have sent a club official to Mexico to tie up the signing of Ecuador winger Jefferson Montero (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Torino striker Allesio Cerci's impressing start of the season have brought him the attention from Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool (talkSPORT) - Probability: Low

Barcelona is looking for a back-up for Lionel Messi and could surprisingly go for Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov (Daily Express) - Probability: Low

Harry Redknapp is willing to let Julio Cesar leave QPR for free with Manchester City as a potential taker (Daily Star) - Probability: Medium

Chelsea and Manchester United are leading the race to sign Xabi Alonso when his Real Madrid contract expires (Daily Star) - Probability: Low

Newcastle could bring in yet another Ligue 1 player as Bordeaux striker Cheick Diabate is linked with the club (Metro) - Probability: Low

Cardiff is keeping an eye on Braga striker Hugo Vieira (Daily Express) - Probability: Medium







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After an international break,  the Premier League is up and running with the 12. round. Great Dane Football Blog is also back with the predictions for the weekends matches.


Everton v Liverpool
Goodison Park
23-11-2013 @ 12.45 UK









Everton (4-3-3): Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Osman, McCarthy, Barry; Mirallas, Lukaku, Pienaar.

Injuries: Darron Gibson (Knee), Arouna Koné (Knee). Doubts: Antolin Alcaraz (Lack of match fitness), Tony Hibbert (Lack of match fitness), Apostolos Vellios (Knock). Bans: None. 

Liverpool (4-4-2): Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique; Henderson, Gerrard, Lucas, Coutinho; Suárez, Sturridge.

Injuries: Iago Aspas (Thigh), Sebastián Coates (Knee). Doubts: Steven Gerrard (Knock). Bans: None.

Saturday features the first Merseyside Derby of the season when Liverpool visits Everton at Goodison Park. The hosts have played well this season and are currently 6th in the table, only three points from Liverpool 2nd. Both side currently have two players on the injury list while there are doubts with a few profiles. However, Steven Gerrard is expected to feature in the starting XI on Saturday. The last two derby's have ended in draws, and this match might as well be as equal. Both sides are in great form and shows some impressing attacking play, but at the same time none of them can afford to lose points. 


Stoke v Sunderland
Britannia Stadium
23-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK









Stoke (4-4-1-1): Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Huth, Pieters; Walters, Palacios, N'Zonzi, Arnautovic; Ireland; Crouch.

Injuries: None. Doubts: Stephen Ireland (Foot), Wilson Palacios (Knock), Andy Wilkinson (Knee). Bans: None.

Sunderland (4-4-1-1): Mannone; Celustka, O'Shea, Brown, Bardsley; Giaccherini, Ki, Colback, Johnson; Larsson; Fletcher.

Injuries: None. Doubts: None. Bans: Lee Cattermole, Andrea Dossena.

Very surprisingly Sunderland took three points against Manchester City in the last round, and with their win against Southampton in the Capital One Cup they are unbeaten in two matches. However, Stoke have only lost one of their five home matches at Britannia Stadium this season with three draws and a single win against Crystal Palace. Both sides are struggling in the lower part of the table with Stoke just above the relegation line and Sunderland facing a chance to exchange position with The Potters if they manage to get three points on Saturday. Historically the two teams often play tight matches, and the last two have ended in draws. That said, Sunderland have won four of the last ten meetings.


Arsenal v Southampton
Emirates Stadium
23-11-2103 @ 15.00 UK









Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Sagna, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs; Arteta, Ramsey; Rosicky, Ozil, Cazorla; Giroud.

Injuries: Abou Diaby (Knee), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Knee), Lukas Podolski (Hamstring), Yaya Sanogo (Back), Theo Walcott (Pelvic). Doubts: Per Mertesacker (Illness), Aaron Ramsey (Illness), Tomas Rosicky (Illness), Gedion Zezalem (Lack of match fitness). Bans: Mathieu Flamini.

Southampton (4-4-1-1): Boruc; Clyne, Fonte, Lovren, Shaw; Rodríguez, Schneiderlin, Wanyama, Lallana; Lambert; Osvaldo.

Injuries: Guilherme Do Prado (Knee). Doubts: Rickie Lambert (Muscle). Bans: None.

The greatest surprise of the season, Southampton, is visiting Arsenal at Emirates on Saturday and can bring themselves in front of the Premier League with a win. However, Arsenal have only lost one home match this season, and that was in the opening match against Aston Villa. Last round The Gunners lost against Manchester United and needs three points to keep distance to Liverpool and Southampton. Despite being without key players as Lukas Podolski and The Walcott others have taken over and especially Aaron Ramsey have been a key player this season. A number of players are rated doubtful for both sides, but they are all more or less expected to feature in the starting XI's on Saturday. Southampton have the ability to surprise in this match, but I expect Arsenal to pull it of with a 2-0 victory.


Fulham v Swansea
Craven Cottage
23-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK









Fulham (4-2-3-1): Stekelenburg; Zverotic, Senderos, Amorebieta, Richardson; Parker, Sidwell; Dejagah, Kasami, Ruíz; Berbatov.

Injuries: Matthew Briggs (Hernia), Hugo Rodallega (Groin). Doubts: None. Bans: Sascha Riether.

Swansea (4-2-3-1): Vorm; Rangel, Williams, Chico, Davies; De Guzmán, Britton; Dyer, Shelvey, Routledge; Bony.

Injuries: Pablo Hernández (Thigh), Michu (Ankle), Garry Monk (Knee), Alan Tate (Hamstring). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

This haven't been the best season for Fulham with seven defeats in ten matches so far. The visitors on Saturday, Swansea, have not lived up to the expectations they started after the impressing season last year, but are still mid table. While Fulham have lost the last the last three Premier League matches, Swansea have drawn two and lost one. With only two points separating the two sides, there is everything to play for on Saturday. The history shows that Swansea have a good take on Fulham at Craven Cottage as they have won the two last meetings in London.


Hull v Crystal Palace
KC Stadium
23-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK








Hull City (4-2-3-1): Harper; Rosenior, McShane, Davies, Figueroa; Huddlestone, Livermore; Elmohamady, Koren, Brady; Sagbo.

Injuries: Sone Aluko (Achilles), James Chester (Hamstring), Allan McGregor (Thigh). Doubts: Robert Brady (Hernia). Bans: None.

Crystal Palace (4-3-3): Speroni; Ward, Gabbidon, Delaney, Moxey; Dikgacoi, Bannan, Jedinak; Bolasie, Chamakh, Thomas.

Injuries: Adlene Guédioura (Rib), Jack Hunt (Ankle), Glenn Murray (Knee), Jonathan Williams (Ankle). Doubts: Patrick McCarthy (Lack of match fitness). Bans: None.

The first meeting of the season between the Championship promoted sides Hull and Crystal Palace will take place at KC Stadium on Saturday. While Hull finds themselves mid table with twelve points, Crystal Palace is struggling in the bottom of the table with only four points and is in a serious need of three points. The injury list has looked the same for a couple of weeks for the two teams, playing with their best players available on Saturday. The two sides have a history of seven draws within the last ten matches, and even though Crystal Palace have won two and Hull only one since 2006 it is the hosts that are favorites on Saturday.


Newcastle United v Norwich
St James Park
23-11-2013 @ 15.00 UK









Newcastle United (4-4-2): Krul; Yanga-Mbiwa, Coloccini, Williamson, Santon; Sissoko, Tioté, Cabaye, Gouffran; Ameobi, Remy.

Injuries: Paul Dummett (Hamstring), Jonás Gutiérrez (Personal reasons), Massadio Haidara (Hamstring), Ryan Taylor (Knee), Stuart Taylor (Hamstring). Doubts: None. Bans: Mathieu Debuchy.

Norwich (4-2-3-1): Ruddy; Martin, Benett, Turner, Olsson; Fer, Howson; Snodgrass, Elmander, Pilkington; Hooper.

Injuries: Elliott Bennett (Knee), Alexander Tettey (Ankle), Ricky van Wolfswinkel (Foot). Doubts: Anthony Pilkington (Hamstring). Band: None.

Six points are separating the two teams before the match on Saturday, when Newcastle welcomes Norwich to St James Park. The Toons have found their form after a disappointing league start and have won their two last matches in the Premier League. While Newcastle beat Chelsea and Tottenham, Norwich have 7-0 against Manchester City before winning 3-1 against West Ham at home last round. The last meeting between the two sides ended in a goalless draw, but with Newcastle's current form and Norwich lack of the same I can only see The Toons in this match.


West Ham v Chelsea 
Boleyn Ground 
23-11-2013 @ 17.30 UK









West Ham (4-3-3): Jääskeläinen; Demel, Tomkins, Collins, Rat; Morrison, Collison, Noble; Downing, Nolan, Cole.

Injuries: Andy Carroll (Foot), Winston Reid (Ankle), Matthew Taylor (Calf), Ricardo Vaz Te (Shoulder). Doubts: George McCartney (Lack of match fitness), Joey O'Brien (Hamstring), Mladen Petric (Calf). Bans: None.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech; Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Azpilicueta; Ramires, Lampard; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Eto'o.

Injuries: Tomas Kalas (Leg), Fernando Torres (Muscle), Marco van Ginkel (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

West Ham will have to do without the strong defender Winston Reid for the clash with Chelsea at Boleyn Ground, he will probably be replaced by Collins in the central defends. Chelsea are 4th in the league table and can with a win bring themselves into top three if other results match, as well. Last time the two sides met at Boleyn Ground, Chelsea brought themselves in front after thirteen minutes, but by three goals in the second half West Ham won the match. The Hammers profile Matt Jarvis has said to the press that he believes his side can do it again, and Chelsea have shown to be vulnerable this season. I could see West Ham take a slender win at home.


Manchester City v Tottenham
City of Manchester Stadium
24-11-2013 @ 13.30 UK









Manchester City (4-4-2): Pantilimon; Zabaleta, Nastasic, Demichelis, Kolarov; Milner, Touré, Fernandinho, Nasri; Aguero, Negredo.

Injuries: Stevan Jovetic (Calf), Vincent Kompany (Thigh), David Silva (Calf), Richard Wright (Knock). Doubts: Fernandinho (Knock), Matija Nastasic (Knock). Bans: None.

Tottenham (4-2-3-1): Lloris; Walker, Dawson, Chiriches, Vertonghen; Sandro, Paulinho; Townsend, Holtby, Sigurdsson; Soldado.

Injuries: Emmanuel Adebayor (Knock), Nacer Chadli (Hamstring), Christian Eriksen (Ankle), Danny Rose (Ankle). Doubts: Vlad Chiriches (Facial), Ezekiel Fryers (Groin), Harry Kane (Knock), Kyle Walker (Knock). Bans: None.

Christian Eriksen was added to Tottenham's injury list this week, why I believe Lewis Holtby could get a chance in the starting XI against Manchester City. The two teams are side by side in the table with only one point separating them before the early match on Sunday. City have not played their best so far this season while Tottenham have fallen back from a promising start, so it will be two teams eager to show that they belong in the top. Tottenham won the last meeting between the two clubs, but at theCity of Manchester Stadium the hosts have been the strongest in the last three matches. The advantage will also be used in Sundays early match.


Cardiff v Manchester United
Cardiff City Stadium
24-11-2013 @ 16.00 UK








Cardiff City (4-3-3): Marshall; Théophile-Catherine, Caulker, Turner, Taylor; Whittingham, Medel, Gunnarsson; Cowie, Odemwingie, Bellamy.

Injuries: None. Doubts: Andreas Cornelius (Lack of match fitness), Rudy Gestede (Knock), Peter Odemwingie (Knock). Bans: None.

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Rafael, Evans, Vidic, Evra; Cleverley, Jones; Valencia, Rooney, Kagawa; van Persie.

Injuries: Michael Carrick (Achilles), William Keane (Knee), Danny Welbeck (Knee). Doubts: Darren Fletcher (Lack of match fitness), Phil Jones (Groin), Rafael (Ankle), Robin van Persie (Groin), Nemanja Vidic (Head). Bans: None.

Cardiff is close to have Danish starlet Andreas Cornelius back in action, but the striker will not be avaliable against Manchester United. However, the striker is much needed as the three attackers likely to start on Sunday have only scored on goal all together. In comparison Robin van Persie have scored 7 goals. Despite the small amount of goals Cardiff have managed to get some good results this season, but against a Manchester United finding their form and unbeaten in their last three matches they will come to short.



West Bromwich v Aston Villa
The Hawthorns 
25-11-2013 @ 20.00









Aston Villa (4-3-3): Guzan; Bacuna, Baker, Vlaar, Clark; Westwood, El Ahmadi, Delph; Weimann, Benteke, Agbonlahor.

Injuries: Antonio Luna (Hamstring), Charles N'Zogbia (Achilles), Jores Okore (Knee). Doubts: Gabriel Agbonlahor (Ankle), Joe Bennett (Back), Ciaran Clark (Foot), Fabian Delph (Illness), Gary Gardner (Back), Brad Guzan (Knock), Andreas Weimann (Hamstring). 

West Bromwich (4-2-3-1): Myhill; Reid, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Yacob, Mulumbu; Amalfitano, Sessegnon, Brunt; Anichebe.

Injuries: Ben Foster (Foot), Zoltán Gera (Knock), Billy Jones (Hamstring). Doubst: Boaz Myhill (Achilles), Scott Sinclair (Hamstring). Bans: None.

The bookmakers have West Brom as favorites against Aston Villa on Monday, but the last three matches between the two sides have ended in draws. Both teams have a draw and a win within their last two matches, but West Brom seems to be in the best form at the moment. Both sides are struggling with injuries, and The Baggies might have to use their third goalkeeper for the match as Ben Foster is out and Boaz Myhill is rated doubtful. The clubs are aside in the table and will both be focusing on securing the back in this match, with Aston Villa looking to have the strongest attack. I am not sure about this match, but I think it will end in yet another draw.
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David Beckham is not completely done with football after ending his career; now he is working on a new
football club in Miami and is getting support from NBA star LeBron James.

When Beckham signed with LA Galaxy and the MLS they gave him the option to buy a new league franchise for $25m, and with plans to expand the league to 24 teams by 2020 it opens the door for the former England international. Today he got the support from LeBron James who already have an interest in football with a small ownership stake in Liverpool.

David Beckham have already scouted locations for a new stadium, and is at the same time looking for investors, whereas Lebron James can be the first. However, it might not be easy to get success with a team in Miami as the Miami Fusion played in Fort Lauderdale from 1998 to 2001 before the franchise failed due to poor attendance. Perhaps a NBA MVP as LeBron James can help Beckham to create attention around his team?

Manchester City is will also be a part of the MLS through a partnership with the New York Yankees creating the New York City FC.






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It is one of the big national football rivalries taking place at Wembley tomorrow, when the Match of the Week between England and Germany kicks off.

England v Germany
International Friendly
19-11-2013 @ 20.00 UK










How are the two teams form?

England won their World Cup Qualification group a single point ahead of Ukraine. After going through the group unbeaten, The Three Lions lost 2-0 against Chile on Wembley, however; it have to be said that Roy Hodgson was experimenting with the formations and players.

Meanwhile, Germany also made it through their World Cup qualification group unbeaten, winning with eight points to Sweden second. On Friday Germany met Italy in a hard played friendly which ended in a draw.

The last six matches between the two sides have ended with three wins to both teams.

What are the probable line-ups?

Joe Hart is back in the England goal, while Adam Lallana will have his second succesive match after getting his debut on Friday. Germany will be saving some of the players, why Dortmund keeper Weidenfeller will have his debut in the German goal against England.

Hart

Walker - Smalling - Jagielka - Cole

Gerrard - Cleverley

Townsend - Rooney - Lallane

Sturridge
___________________________________________

Klose

Draxler - Schurrle - Reus

Bender - Muller

Janssen - Mertesacker - Hummels - Boateng

Weidenfeller

What to expect from this match?

Despite Germany saving some of the biggest profiles, it is two quality line-ups clashing tomorrow. This match might be a friendly, but the meetings between the two sides are almost never "friendly" and I expect this one to be played hard, as well. England might be playing their best players at the moment, but England are favorites in my eyes. Their "B" squad is almost as good as their "A", and I think England will get in trouble tomorrow.

What are the odds?

All of the bookmakers have Germany as favorites with Youwin offering the best odds with 6/4. Meanwhile, PaddyPower offers a 21/10 for an England victory while a draw gives 5/2 at Bwin.








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Football doesn't always have to be played on grass - This month the Mundialito de Clubes is played on the beaches of Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro. Great Dane Football Blog has found five beautiful details from beaches around the world.







5. Take a look at this over head kick from Barcelona's Ozu


4. The Swiss striker Stankovic also know how to make an over head kick


3. The Argentinian warm up is a bit different than other teams


2. And the Lebanon's know how to head a ball


1. This guy knows how to kick a ball


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The countdown for the January transfer window has begun, and the club's are preparing their bids. Here  are the latest transfer rumours from the papers!

Arsenal is closing in on a deal for Real Madrid's Karim Benzema worth £22m (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Manchester City have added Victor Valdes of Barcelona and QPR's Julio Cesar to their short list, with Joe Hart set to be offloaded (The Mirror) - Probability: Low

Swansea want to bring in Raheem Sterling on loan from Liverpool (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

If Tottenham can sell Emmanuel Adebayor in the January transfer window, they will be make a bid for Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez (Sunday Telegraph) - Probability: Low

At the same time, Tottenham is hoping to snatch Halmstads wonderkid Valmir Berisha for £500,000 (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United are all on alert after Borussia Dortmund revealed Marco Reus has a release clause in his contract (Daily Star) - Probability: High

United are eyeing the deal for Reus offering Shinji Kagawa to his former club (The Times) - Probability: High

West Ham are weighing up a January loan move for Real Madrid forward Jese Rodriguez (Daily Star) - Probability: Low

Roberto Mancini is hoping to bring Chelsea defender John Terry to Galatasaray and is readu to match his £150,000 per-week wages (The Sun) - Probability: Low





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