The January Transfer Window is coming to an end soon, and the rumours are flying wildly around in the papers. Great Dane Football Blog have taken a look on a few of them.

Jose Mourinho is targeting Atletico Madrid's Diego Costa, after talks of Wayne Rooney staying at Old Trafford (Daily Telegraph) - Probability: High

As a part of the deal for Costa, Blues keeper Thibaut Courtois could stay with Atletico on a permanent deal (Daily Mail) - Probability: High

Southampton are interested in 27-year-old Cagliari defender Davide Astori (Daily Mail) - Probability: Medium

At the same time, Luke Shaw snubs Manchester United and waits for his dream transfer to Chelsea this summer (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Fulham are in talks to sign Olympiacos striker Kostas Mitroglou i a £11m deal (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Borussia Dortmund have joined Schalke in chasing Lewis Holtby of Tottenham (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Cardiff, Liverpool, Stoke and Swansea, are battling to sign Blackpool winger Tom Ince (talkSPORT) - Probability: Medium

Ryan Bertrand may make his Aston Villa loan spell permanent (Evening Standard) - Probability: Medium

Arsenal and Liverpool are both interested in Barcelonas Isaac Cuenca (talkSPORT) - Probability: Low

Feyenoords Daryl Janmaat refuses to sign a new contract, as he is expecting a bid from Arsenal in the summer (Daily Express) - Probability: Medium

Lyons Clement Grenier denies a move to Newcastle before the transfer window deadline (Newcastle Chronicle) - Probability: High

Six months after joining Cardiff, the Danish striker is returning home to Denmark, according to Wales Online.

Andreas Cornelius joined Cardiff in the summer transfer window, but have never had the success hoped for. Now, FC Copenhagen should be close to settle a 2.9m deal for the Dane bringing him back to Parken. 

The club announced earlier today that they were close to settle a deal with Cardiff and according to Wales Online it should be a permanent change and not a loan deal. 

According to several media Yohan Cabaye told Newcastle he wanted out last night, and within hours he was sold to Paris St Germain. The deal is still to be confirmed, but it looks as the French midfielder is a part of the past in Newcastle. Who will replace Cabaye? Great Dane Football Blog has looked at four opportunities.

Despite blaming Arsene Wenger for bringing in too many French players a couple of years back, Alan Pardew has now develop his own fling for the Ligue 1. That's why a player as Rémy Cabella or Clément Granier could be the replacement for Cabaye. 

23-year-old Rémy Cabella is an attacking midfield with a potential to become a regular part of the French international. The Montpellier-player has a future on the U21 French national team where he played 17 matches and scored 4 goals. Since his debut in 2010, Cabella has played 98 matches in Ligue 1 and scored 19 goals, 6 of them this season. Given his age, he could be a great player for Newcastle to bring in and develop further with a future sell in prospect.

Clément Grenier was linked to Arsenal last season, but apparently Olympic Lyon was not willing to let him go. The 23-year-old is best on the centre midfield but can also be used in the attacking midfield, just as Yohan Cabaye often was used in Newcastle. Grenier has been a part of the French youth national teams since he entered the U16 and have so far played 3 matches for the Senior national team. The problem with Grenier is that Newcastle probably will have to fight Arsenal to get the signature, and when it comes to money Arsenal will win. However, the prospect of becoming a star on the Newcastle team might be enough to persuade the French.

Another talented midfielder interesting for Newcastle is the 20-year-old Dutch Adam Maher. As Grenier, Maher is best in the centre midfield or the attacking midfield where he serves as a playmaker. Maher is the captain for the Netherlands U21 where he have played 16 matches and scored two goals. He has been linked with Newcastle earlier, but also clubs as Manchester City and Bayern Munich are keeping an eye on the talent. Joining PSV Eindhoven last summer, a transfer to Newcastle might be a bit to early, but for the right amount of money every player is for sale. 

A more experienced player is Aaron Hunt with nine years in the German Bundesliga. Hunt has been linked with several Premier League clubs that last couple of years, but with Cabaye leaving Newcastle could be the next destination for the German. The midfielder can also play the role as attacking midfielder or secondary striker, and this might add to his chances of joining the club. Furthermore, his contract ends this summer why this is the last chance for Werder Bremen to get some money for Hunt. Aged 27, there are still many years left in the German, and he can bring some extra experience to St James Park.

This was our four suggestions to Alan Pardew. What do you think? Are their other players more likely to be in the eye of the manager? Comment below or on our facebook page here.

Manchester United v Cardiff City

Barclays Premier League Round 23

Old Trafford

18-01-2013 @ 19.45

How are the two teams form?

Last years Champions are out of the FA Cup, and after last week's penalty mayhem against Sunderland, the Premier League and the Champions League is all there is left for the Red Devils. In the league United are currently 7th with five points to Everton on the 6th.

Cardiff are last in the table with eighteen points before the match at Old Trafford. Manchester United legend, and new manager at Cardiff, Ole Gunnar Solskjær is still missing his first win with the Blues, and is hoping his three new Norwegian players can make a difference against Manchester. 

What are the probable lineups?

Nemanja Vidic is unavailable against Cardiff due to the red card he received against Chelsea on the 19th January. Furthermore, Moyes will be without Marouane Fellaini, Nani, Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie due to injuries. Both Michael Carrick and Rio Ferdinand are doubtful for the match. For Cardiff, Andrew Taylor is out with a calf injury.

De Gea

Rafael - Smalling - Evans - Evra

Fletcher - Jones

Valencia - Mata - Januzaj

Welbeck

__________________________________

Campbell

Noone - Mutch - Gunnarsson

Whittingham - Medel

McNaughton - Turner - Caulker - Théophile-Catherine

Marshall

What to expect from this match?

Manchester United goes into this match against a Cardiff struggling to with the hard competition in the Premier League. It will be interesting to see what effect Juan Mata will have on the United team, and he will do his best to show Mourinho that he made a mistake selling him. At the moment Cardiff is working on signing Zaha and Fabio from United, but it is very unlikely to go through before the match. Should it go through the two players are unlikely to be ineligible for the squad. However, we might get a view of the new Norwegian talents in Cardiff. As I said, United are the favorites at Old Trafford, but given their current form I could see this match end in a goalless draw.

What are the odds?

The best odds on a Manchester United victory comes from Ladbrokes with a 2/7 bet while a draw gives 5 at Bet365. Cardiff gives a stunning 15 back at Bet365 as well. If you think Mata will score in his debut match, Betvictor offers a 7 bet.

Nottingham Forest v Preston North End

FA Cup 4. Round

City Ground

24-01-2013 @ 20.00

How are the two teams form?

Nottingham Forest took an impressing win against West Ham in the third round of the FA Cup and are currently fifth in the Championship. The Tricky Trees are unbeaten in ten matches before the Preston meeting. Preston North End won 3-2 against Ipswich in the FA Cup and are currently fourth in League One after playing a draw in their last match.

What are the probable line ups?

Forest are without Kevin Wilson, Chris Cohen, Dexter Blackstock, Eric Lichaj and Jack Hobbs due to injuries. For Preston, Kevin Davies is out with a ban.

Darlow

Jara - Lascelles - Collins - Harding

Moussi - Reid - Lansbury - Abdoun

Halford - Paterson

__________________________________

Garner - Hume

Gallagher - Welsh - Kilkenny - Holmes

Buchanan - Wright - King - Clark

Rudd

What to expect from this match?

After Forest humiliated West Ham last round there are great expectations to the Reds. Playing against Preston from the league under them makes them favorites and I expect them to dominate in this match. That said, in cup football you can never be sure and Preston will not lay down and let Forest run them over. Preston will be careful not to take to many risks from the start of the match, but they cannot let Nottingham take control of the match. Four of the last ten matches have been won with a 2-1 score and Forest have won five of last ten matches. There is no doubt in my mind, the Tricky Trees wins this match.

What are the odds?

A Nottingham Forest win will give back 4/5 at betway while a Preston win will give an amazing 5 times the money back with bet365. 

Almost half way through the transfer window, a lot of players are rumoured to other clubs. Today, Great Dane Football Blog, takes a look at five players that might leave Tottenham before January ends.

5. Nacer Chadli

The 24-year-old midfielder is reportedly seeking away from Tottenham in order to secure a spot for the Belgian World Cup squad. Chadli joined Tottenham last year, but have so far only played 13 matches for the Spurs, and the future doesn't look too bright under Tim Sherwood. However, the player himself have been out and announced he is ready to fight for his place at Tottenham why a transfer isn't just around the corner.

4. Lewis Holtby

Lewis Holtby joined Tottenham almost a year ago, and was expected to become of the new profiles of the Premier League. However, the German did not get the expected breakthrough, and since Christian Eriksen joined in the summer, Holtby have more or less been left in the shadows. His former club Schalke are eager to get their former star back in the squad, but Daniel Levy is reportedly not willing to let him go to his former club as it will open for Arsenal buying Julian Draxler.

3. Erik Lamela

Like Etienne Capoue and Nacer Chadli, Erik Lamela was one of Andre Villa-Boas summer transfers, and one of the players who could be leaving the club. The Argentinian have not gotten the success he hoped for in the Premier League and have been linked with a move to Roma - his former club. Coco, as he is called, have also been linked with moves to other Italian clubs, but at the moment Tottenham looks to hold on to the winger. However, if he gets too unhappy staying at White Hart Lane, the Spurs can be forced to let him go.

2. Heurelho Gomes

The Brazilian goalkeeper joined Tottenham in 2008 and have a few good years at White Hart Lane. However, after a series of high profiled errors he was replaced in the goal by Brad Friedel. Today, Gomes is third choice and wants to leave Tottenham. The keeper was linked with a move to a Brazilian club before the January window, but was allegedly not allowed to leave Spurs on a free transfer. 

1. Etienne Capoue

As Tim Sherwood is attempting to streamline his squad, Etienne Capoue could be sacrificed. The defensive midfielder joined Spurs last summer but have so far only had 8 matches in the white shirt. According to several media Capoue was close to moving to Napoli, but Tottenham pulled the plug in the last minute. Like Nacer Chadli, the Mali have already said he is ready to stay and fight for his place, but a move away from Tottenham is more likely.

A couple of Nottingham Forest talents are hot in the Premier League and Galatasaray are hunting profiles for their team. Here is the Thursday Transfer Update.

Less than a year after he joined Tottenham, Lewis Holtby is wanted back in Germany by Schalke, Wolfsburg and Hannover (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Swansea want Anthony Pilkington of Norwich (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Nemanja Vidic and Bacary Sagna are targets for Galatasaray (Daily Mail) - Probability: High

Arsene Wenger is preparing a £30m bid for Newcastle's Yohan Cabaye and Davide Santon (Caughtoffside.com) - Probability: Low

Manchester City are eyeing a move for Bayern Munich's centre-back Dante (The Siun) - Probability: Low

Meanwhile, John Guidetti could be leaving Manchester City as the striker is wanted on loan in Stoke (Daily Star) - Probability: High

David Moyes is planning a double swoop from Juventus' Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal (Daily Mail) - Probability: Low

Tim Sherwood is keen on bringing Nottingham Forest's keeper Karl Darlow to the White Hart Lane (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Galatasaray are eyeing up a $5m deal for Stoke's Charlie Adam (Daily Mail) - Probability: Low

West Ham and Stoke are both keen on signing Asamoah Gyan on loan from Al-Ain (talkSPORT) - Probability: Medium

Sunderland v Southampton

Stadium of Light

18-01-2014 @ 12.45 UK

Sunderland (4-2-3-1): Mannone; Bardsley, Brown, O'Shea, Alonso; Cattermole, Colback; Johnson, Ki, Borini; Fletcher.

Injuries: Carlos Cuellar (Hip), Keiren Westwood (Shoulder). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

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

Injuries: Victor Wanyama (Leg). Doubts: Callum Chambers (Illness). Bans: Pablo Osvaldo.

The Sunderland players are boosted with confidence after winning in the FA Cup, the Capital One Cup and latest 4-1 against Fulham in one week. However, the Black Cats are still in the relegation zone, but a victory against Southampton can bring them closer to safety, at least for a while. After two loses in a row Southampton turned the table last week with a 1-0 win against West Bromwich Albion and are still fighting to keep up with the top teams. A victory against Sunderland will be vital, but the Saints have not won against the Black Cats since 2003! Both sides have everything to play for in this match, which I expect could end in a 1-1 draw. Sunderland is beginning to find their form, but Southampton should be stronger.

Manchester City v Cardiff

City of Manchester Stadium

18-01-2014 @ 14.00 UK

Manchster City (4-4-2): Hart; Zabaleta, Demichelis, Kompany, Kolarov; Navas, Touré, Fernandinho, Silva; Dzeko, Negredo.

Injuries: Stevan Jovetic (Illness), Samir Nasri (Knee), Jack Rodwell (Hamstring). Doubts: Edin Dzeko (Calf), David Silva (Knock), Yaya Touré (Back). Bans: None. 

Cardiff (4-3-3): Marshall; Théophile-Catherine, Caulker, Hudson, John; Kim Bo-Kyung, Medel, Whittingham; Noone, Campbell, Odemwingie. 

Injuries: None. Doubts: Jordon Mutch (Hamstring), Andrew Taylor (Knock). Bans: None. 

It's David against Goliath when Cardiff visits City of Manchester Stadium on Saturday. However, last time David won 3-2! That said, it will probably not be the story this time with a Manchester City team in top form, unbeaten in their last fifteen matches where of ten of them are in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Cardiff have not won in five Premier League matches. David Silva is rated doubtful for the match, but is expected to start and fulfill his role in the dangerous starting XI. This can not end with anything else than a Manchester City victory.

West Ham v Newcastle

Upton Park

18-01-2014 @ 14.00 UK

West Ham United (4-3-3): Adrián; O'Brien, Collins, Johnson, Rat; Diame, Taylor, Noble; Downing, Carroll, Jarvis.

Injuries: James Collins (Calf), Joey O'Brien (Knock), Winston Reid (Ankle). Doubts: Guy Demel (Arm), Ricardo Vaz Te (Lack of match fitness). Bans: James Tomkins, Kevin Nolan. 

Newcastle United (4-2-3-1): Krul; Yanga-Mbiwa, Taylor, Williamson, Santon; Tiote, Anita; Sissoko, Cabaye, Gouffran; Remy.

Injuries: Fabricio Coloccini (Knee), Ryan Taylor (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: Mathieu Debuchy.

Newcastle have not won against West Ham since 2011, but when they did they did it 5-0. Since then,  West Ham have won one match 1-0 and otherwise the two sides have played goalless draws. West Ham is currently seventeenth in the Premier League while Newcastle are eight, after losing their last three league matches. Newcastle are favorites for the win, especially with a Loic Remy in top form. However, West Ham finally have Andy Carroll back from his injury, and the striker will be eager to perform against his former club. That said, this match might just end in a boring draw.

Norwich v Hull

Carrow Road

18-01-2014 @ 14.00 UK

Norwich (4-4-2): Ruddy; Whittaker, Bennett, Bassong, Olsson; Snodgrass, Fer, Johnson, Redmond; van Wolfswinkel, Hooper.

Injuries: Elliott Bennett (Knee), Jonathan Howson (Back), Anthony Pilkington (Hamstring), Alexander Tettey (Ankle), Michael Turner (Hamstring). Doubts: None. Bans: None. 

Hull City (3-4-1-2); McGregor; Bruce, Davies, Chester; Elmohamady, Livermore, Huddlestone, Figueroa; Meyler; Koren, Sagbo.

Injuries: Sone Aluko (Achilles), Robert Brady (Groin), Joe Dudgeon (Knee), Paul McShane (Ankle). Doubts: None. Bans: None. 

The battle is close in the middle of the Premier League table with only three points separating Norwich, fifteenth, from Hull on the tenth. Chris Hughton is under pressure with six loses in a row why a win against Hull will buy him some time in the Norwich seat. That said, Hull have shown good form this season and despite losing their last two Premier League matches they are hanging on midtable. The last meeting between the two sides was a pre-season friendly which Hull won 1-0 and the Tigers generally have a good take on the Canaries.

Crystal Palace v Stoke City

Selhurst Park

18-01-2014 @ 14.00 UK

Crystal Palace (4-3-3): Speroni; Ward, Gabbidon, Delaney, Parr; Puncheon, Guedioura, Jedinak, Bolasie; Jerome, Chamakh.

Injuries: Jack Hunt (Ankle), Glenn Murray (Knee), Jerome Thomas (Groin). Doubts: None. Bans: None. 

Stoke City (4-2-3-1): Sørensen; Cameron, Shawcross, Wilson, Pieters; Whelan, N'Zonzi; Walters, Adam, Assaidi; Crouch.

Injuries: Asmir Begovic (Hand), Robert Huth (Knee), Andy Wilkinson (Foot). Doubts: None. Bans. None. 

It's Tony Pulis first meeting with Stoke since they sacked him in May last year, and the manager will be hoping to take three points against his former club. Despite a good start with Pulis, Crystal Palace have not won in three Premier League matches and are still rock bottom in the table. However, it is not much better for the opponent as Stoke have lost their last four matches placing the twelfth in the Premier League. Thomas Sørensen will still be guarding the goal for Stoke as Asmir Begovic is still struggling with his hand injury while the team otherwise looks at it's best. Crystal Palace have not won against Stoke since 2008 but could well surprise and grab the three points in this match.

Arsenal v Fulham

Emirates Stadium

18-01-2014 @ 14.00 UK

Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Flamini, Wilshere; Gnabry, Ozil, Cazorla; Giroud.

Injuries: Nicklas Bendtner (Ankle), Diaby (Knee), Aaron Ramsey (Thigh), Yaya Sanogo (Back), Theo Walcott (Knee). Doubts: Nacho Monreal (Foot), Tomas Rosicky (Facial), Thomas Vermaelen (Knee). Bans: None. 

Fulham (4-3-3): Stekelenburg; Riether, Senderos, Amorebieta, Riise; Karagounis, Parker, Sidwell; Dejagah, Berbatov, Richardson. 

Injuries: Matthew Briggs (Hernia). Doubts: Maarten Stekelenburg (Ankle). Bans: None. 

Everything speaks for an Arsenal victory on Saturday against Fulham. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches, and if you include the FA Cup, they have not lost in eight matches at the Emirates. At the same time,  Fulham have not won away the last two matches. Arsenal is in the lead of the Premier League after a 2-1 win against Aston Villa where Villa was best in the second half. This should give confidence to Fulham, knowing Arsenal have had problems finishing the matches this season. That said, Fulham doesn't seem to have much to fire at Arsenal why this should end with three points to the Gunners.

Liverpool v Aston Villa

Anfield Road

18-01-2014 @ 17.30 UK

Liverpool (4-3-3): Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Sakho, Cissokho; Lucas, Gerrard, Henderson; Sterling, Sturridge, Suarez.

Injuries: Daniel Agger (Calf), Joe Allen (Groin), Sebastian Coates (Knee), Enrique (Knee), John Flanagan (Hamstring). Doubts: None. Bans: None. 

Aston Villa (3-5-2): Guzan; Vlaar, Clark, Baker; Lowton, El Ahmadi, Westwood, Delph, Luna; Benteke, Agbonlahor.

Injuries: Chris Herd (Hamstring), Libor Kozák (Broken leg), Charles N'Zogbia (Achilles), Jores Okore (Knee). Doubts: Nathan Baker (Facial). Bans: None.

Aston Villa are eleventh in the Premier League after losing to Arsenal on Monday, and will need a miracle to win against Liverpool this Saturday. Liverpool have not lost in eight home matches and are currently fourth in the league table. That said, Aston Villa showed a great performance in the second half of the Arsenal match, but against a Liverpool scoring most of their goals in the first 45 that is not of much help. Liverpool needs a win to keep distance to the rivals from Everton, as well as Tottenham, but with Suarez in top form I can only seem them win this match.

Swansea v Tottenham

Liberty Stadium

19-01-2014 @ 12.30 UK

Swansea (4-2-3-1): Tremmel; Rangel, Williams, Amat, Davies; De Guzman, Cañas; Routledge, Shelvey, Pozuelo; Bony.

Injuries: Nathan Dyer (Ankle), Pablo Hernandez (Hamstring), Roland Lamah (Groin), Michu (Ankle), Garry Monk (Knee), Dwight Tiendalli (Hamstring), Michel Vorm (Knee). Doubts: Jonathan de Guzman (Calf), Jose Cañas (Ankle). Bans: None.

Tottenham (4-4-2): Lloris; Walker, Dawson, Chiriches, Rose; Lennon, Bentaleb, Dembélé, Eriksen; Adebayor, Soldado.

Injuries: Younes Kaboul (Thigh), Paulinho (Ankle), Sandro (Calf), Jan Vertonghen (Ankle). Doubts; Erik Lamela (Thigh), Kyle Walker (Calf). Bans: None.

Michael Laudrup and his Swansea are going through an injury crisis with not less than ten players on the list. The crisis is also seen in the table where Swansea haven't won in seven matches before meeting Tottenham at Liberty Stadium. The opponent, in the other hand, are unbeaten in five matches and only two points from the fourth in the table. Furthermore, Tottenham have won the last five meetings with Swansea and are favorites for the win.

Chelsea v Manchester United

Stamford Bridge

19-01-2014 @ 16.00 UK

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech; Azpilicueta, Terry, Cahill, Cole; Mikel, Ramires; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Torres. 

Injuries: Branislav Ivanovic (Knee), Tomas Kalas (Leg), Frank Lampard (Muscle), Marco van Ginkel (Knee). Doubts: Ryan Bertrand (Knock). Bans: None. 

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Rafael, Vidic, Evans, Evra; Fletcher, Carrick; Valencia, Rooney, Januzaj; Welbeck. 

Injuries: Marouane Fellaini (Wrist), Nani (Hamstring), Wayne Rooney (Groin), Robin van Persie (Thigh), Ashley Young (Shoulder). Doubts: Jonny Evans (Back), Patrice Evra (Knee), Rio Ferdinand (Knee), Phil Jones (Knee). Bans: Fabio.

Chelsea are in eminent form at the moment and making their way to the top. It will be up to a unstable Manchester United team to stop them, and get three vital points at the Bridge on Sunday. However, given Chelsea seems unstoppable at the moment they are the favorites and considering Manchester United's injury problems they will get in trouble holding Chelsea away from scoring. I expect Manchester to fight their best and show how brave they really are, but I can only see Chelsea take the three points. 

West Bromwich v Everton

The Hawthorns

20-01-2014 @ 20.00 UK

West Bromwich (4-3-3): Foster; Reid, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Sessegnon, Yacob, Mulumbu; Amalfitano, Anelka, Berahino.

Injuries: Billy Jones (Eye), Goran Popov (Neck). Doubts: Victor Anichebe (Groin). Bans: None. 

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

Injuries: Antolin Alcaraz (Muscle), Ross Barkley (Toe), Gerard Feulofeu (Hamstring), Darron Gibson (Knee), Arouna Koné (Knee). Doubts: Sylvain Distin (Hamstring). Bans: None.

After a going through four matches unbeaten, West Brom lost against Southampton last week and are fourteenth in the table. Their opponent, Everton are unbeaten in their last three league matches, and if including the FA Cup and the Capital One Cup, they have won their last six matches away. Looking at the last ten meetings between the two sides Everton have won six of them, making them the favorites for the win.

The Ballon D'or and the FIFA/FIFPro World XI ceremony took place yesterday, and not surprisingly Cristiano Ronaldo won the player of the year award. However, the World XI had some surprises.

The World XI is chosen by over 50000 professional football players from all over the world, who chose their favorites on every position on the team. This year the players chose their favorites from a shortlist of five goalkeepers, twenty defenders, fifteen midfielders and fifteen forwards. The short list looked as follow:

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon, Iker Casillas, Petr Cech, Manuel Neuer and Victor Valdes.

Defenders: David Alaba, Jordi Alba, Dani Alves, Leighton Baines, Jérome Boateng, Ashley Cole, Dante, Mats Hummels, Branislav Ivanovic, Vincent Kompany, Philipp Lahm, David Luiz, Marcelo, Pepe, Gerard Piqué, Sergio Ramos, Thiago Silva, Raphael Varane, Nemanja Vidic and Pablo Zabaleta.

Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Gareth Bale, Sergio Busquets, Steven Gerrard, Andrés Iniesta, Isco, Mesut Özil, Andrea Pirlo, Marco Reus, Franck Ribéry, Arjen Robben, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Yaya Touré, Aturo Vidal and Xavi.

Forwards: Sergio Aguero, Mario Balotelli, Edinson Cavani, Diego Costa, Cristiano Ronaldo, Didier Drogba, Ramadel Falcao, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robert Lewandowski, Mario Manduzik, Lionel Messi, Neymar, Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Luis Suarez.

Out of this short list of every managers wet dream, the 50000 players had to chose eleven making the World XI 2013 turn out like this:

Manuel Neuer

Dani Alves - Thiago Silva - Sergio Ramos - Philipp Lahm

Franck Ribery - Xavi - Iniesta

Lionel Messi - Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Cristiano Ronaldo

Quite a team with some of the best players in 2013. However, here at Great Dane Football Blog we have some alliterations to the team. First of all, there is no doubt that Manuel Neuer is the right man for the goal. The German has had a tremendous year and was one of the main players behind Bayern Munichs Champions League success as well as he is a safe name on the German international match sheet.

However, there is a different situation in the defend where especially Dani Alves and Sergio Ramos are questionable picks. Bayern Munichs David Alaba would have been the natural choice instead of Dani Alves as well as Mats Hummels deserves to take Sergio Ramos position. Both have had a great year in their respective club with Champions League final and close battle in the Bundesliga. 

Taking a look at the midfield a player as Xavi does not deserve to be on the team. The Barca midfielder have played his worst in ten years and should have been replaced by a player as Bastian Schweinsteiger or even Gareth Bale who was a one of the best players in the Premier League before joining Real Madrid. The attack looks fine though. Three competent strikers who have shown they are worth their monthly pay!

Well, this is only our view... What do you think about this year's World XI?

Manchester United got three important points against Swansea last round, but this week they are facing Chelsea who are unbeaten in their last six matches. Match of the week is a clash between two English titans!

Chelsea v Manchester United

Barclays Premier League Round 22

Stamford Bridge

19-01-2013 @ 16.00 UK

How are the two teams form?

Chelsea are currently second in the Premier League, with Arsenal playing against Aston Villa later this evening, only one point from Manchester City in the lead. The last six matches Chelsea have left the pitch as winners, and especially Eden Hazard have been playing well with nine goals this season. 

Manchester United is still suffering from a bad start, placing them seventh in the league table after the weekends win against Swansea. The Red Devils have won five of their last six matches and are three points behind Tottenham on the sixth, before this match. 

Chelsea have won three of the last ten meetings between the two sides. That's one less than Manchester United while the two teams have left the pitch sharing points three times. 

What are the probable line ups?

Chelsea are still without a couple of players including Frank Lampard and Branislav Ivanovic. However, their opponent on Sunday are in even bigger problems with nine players either injured or doubtful including Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and Rio Ferdinand. Furthermore, United will have to do without Fabio who is still serving the three match ban he received against Swansea on the 5th January.

Cech

Azpilicueta - Terry - Cahill - Cole

Mikel - Ramires

Willian - Oscar - Hazard

Torres

___________________________________

Welbeck

Januzaj - Rooney - Valencia

Carrick - Fletcher

Evra - Evans - Vidic - Rafael

De Gea

What to expect from this match?

Chelsea are in eminent form at the moment and making their way to the top. It will be up to a unstable Manchester United team to stop them, and get three vital points at the Bridge on Sunday. However, given Chelsea seems unstoppable at the moment they are the favorites and considering Manchester United's injury problems they will get in trouble holding Chelsea away from scoring. I expect Manchester to fight their best and show how brave they really are, but I can only see Chelsea take the three points. 

What are the odds?

WilliamHill gives back a 5/6 bet on a home victory why Bet365 are leading the odds for a draw with 11/4. The best bet for a Manchester United victory is found at 888sport and Unibet with 15/4.

With Jermain Defoe's move to Toronto FC, he will be one of many British players with a history in the Major League Soccer. Great Dane Football Blog takes a look on five of the most successful Brits in USA.

5. Robert Earnshaw, Toronto FC

The Zambian-born Welsh joined Toronto FC from Cardiff last winter, after having been on loan in the Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv FC. After representing West Bromwich Albion, Norwich, Derby, Nottingham FOrest and Cardiff he made agreed to join the Canadian club and soon scored his first two goals helping Toronto to a 2-1 victory against Sporting Kansas City on the 9th of March last year. Furthermore, he has been awarded MLS Player of the Week for the two goal performance. So far Earnshaw has scored eight goals in 26 matches.

4. Nigel Reo-Coker, Vancouver Whitecaps FC

After a promising start on his career for Wimbledon,  he moved on to West Ham, and Aston Villa and a couple of less successful spells as Bolton Wanderers and Ipswich Town, Nigel Reo-Coker joined Vancouver Whitecaps FC in February 2013. Despite his Discovery Rights had been held by Portland Timbers, Reo-Coker expressed his desire to play for Vancouver, who traded their way to his rights. In his first match for the club,  he made 38 passes in 45 minutes. His first goal was scored against Seattle Sounders on the 9th October 2013 against Seattle Sounders. So far the midfielder has had 32 caps for the Canadian club.

3. Robbie Keane, LA Galaxy

The former Tottenham, Liverpool and Celtic striker, is known his many goals, and the streak has continued in LA Galaxy, in the MLS. Here, he became one of the club's three allowed designated players, alongside David Beckham and Landon Donovan. He made his debut against San Jose Earthquakes where he also scored his first goal. Since his debut, the Irish striker have developed into a key player for Galaxy and have so far scored 34 goals in 55 matches

2. Ronnie O'Brien, FC Dallas, Toronto FC and San Jose Earthquakes

The Irishman started a promising career in Middlesbrough at the age of 18. Despite not playing a single match for Middlesbrough Juventus signed the midfielder at the age of 20, but once again O'Brien did not make a single appearance, but was on loan to a number of clubs. Then in 2002 he made the unconventional decision to move to America and join the Dallas Burn (Now Dallas FC). After being injured for the most of his first season, O'Brien made it to the MLS Best Xi in the 2004 and 2005 seasons. In 2005, he moved to Toronto before being traded to San Jose Earthquakes in 2008. Here, he made 28 appearances and scored 4 goals. Today he is a coach of FC Dallas youth teams.

1. David Beckham, LA Galaxy

David Beckham needs no introduction. His signing with LA Galaxy made top news all across the globe with the news of a 5-year contract worth 32.5 US million dollars. The money was well spent by the club as the high-profile acquisition paid immediate financial dividends long before Beckham even moved to America. On the pitch,  Beckham was a success as well with 98 caps and 18 goals and a number of trophies. Today, he is working on making a new soccer club in the MLS.

Crystal Palace is looking to bolter their chances for staying in the Premier League with some ambitious transfer targets; here is the Thursdays Transfer Rumours!

Liverpool and Suprs eye Salomom Kalou as the former Chelsea striker wishes to return to the Premier League (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Cardiff are the favourites to sign Wilfried Zaha on loan (Daily Mail) - Probability: High

Tony Pulis is plotting a loan bid for Chelsea striker Demba Ba (The Mirror) - Probability: Low

Hull is leading the race for Shane Long leaving Newcastle and Stoke behind (The Mirror) - Probability: High

David Moyes has sent scouts to watch Atletico Madrid striker Diego Coast, and Athletico Bilbao's Ander Herrera (Daily Mail) - Probability: Medium

Arsene Wenger is hoping to bring Real Madrid starlet Alvaro Morata to Emirates to provide Arsenal with emergency cover (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Fulham have joined the battle to sign Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Loïc Remy will cost Newcastle up to £16m if they want to make the loan deal permanent (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Manchester United is hoping to lure Claudio Marchisio away from Juventus (Daily Express) - Probability: Low

Michael Laudrup is sure he will beat Cardiff in the race for Tom Ince (The Guardian) - Probability: Medium

Juventus want Erik Lamela of Tottenham and would offer Mirko Vucinic in part exchance (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Great Dane Football Blogs first Wednesday Update in 2014 is ready! A lot of interesting matches are taking in the Premier League in the weekend with Manchester looking for revenge against Swansea as one of them.

Hull v Chelsea

KC Stadium

11-01-2014 @ 12.45 UK

Hull City (3-4-1-2): McGregor; Bruce, Davies, Chester; Elmohamady, Livermore, Huddlestone, Figueroa; Meyler; Koren, Sagbo.

Injuries: Sone Aluko (Achilles), Robert Brady (Groin), Joe Dudgeon (Knee). Doubts: Matty Fryatt (Hamstring). Bans: None. 

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech; Azpilicueta, Terry, Cahill, Cole; Mikel, Ramires; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Torres.

Injuries: Ryan Bertrand (Knock), Branislav Ivanovic (Knee), Tomas Kalas (Leg), Frank Lampard (Muscle), Marco van Ginkel (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: None. 

Hull are keeping a firm grip in their mid-table position and are playing well in the Premier League this year. After beating Fulham with a convincing 6-0 victory, they got their feets back on the ground losing 0-2 to Liverpool on the 1st of January. Despite the defeat, Steve Bruce could stick with his XI with Koren in support of Sagbo up front. Chelsea are unbeaten in their last 5 Premier League matches and is 3rd in the table. José Mourinho will have to look away from Frank Lampard due to a muscle injury why Ramires and Mikel are likely to be paired in his absent. Despite the fact that Chelsea have had a problem with some of the lower-table clubs, they are favorites against Hull. The last 6 matches between the two sides have been won by the Londoners, and they should get their 7th in a row.

Fulham v Sunderland

Craven Cottage

11-01-2014 @ 15.00 UK

Fulham (4-2-3-1): Stekelenburg; Riether, Senderos, Amorebieta, Riis; Parker, Sidwell; Dejagah, Taarabt, Dempsey; Berbatov.

Injuries: Matthew Briggs (Hernia), Brede Hangeland (Leg). Doubts: Maarten Stekelenburg (Ankle). Bans: None.

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

Injuries: Carlos Cuéllar (Hip), Keiren Westwood (Shoulder). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Since Rene Meulensteen took over in Fulham, the Cottagers have moved up in the table. However, they are only 2 points away from the relegation zone before meeting Sunderland. The Black Cats won against Manchester United midweek and are hoping the win will boost them against Fulham on Saturday. However, Fulham won the last match between the two sides and are favorites for the win. Maarten Stekelenburg will return and replace David Stockdale for the match which could help the Fulham defends become stronger.

Tottenham v Crystal Palace

White Hart Lane

11-01-2014 @ 15.00 UK

Crystal Palace (4-4-2): Speroni; Ward, Gabbidon, Delaney, Parr; Puncheon, Dikgacoi, Jedinak, Bolasie; Jerome, Chamakh.

Injuries: Adléne Guédioura (Rib), Jack Hunt (Ankle), Glenn Murray (Knee), Jerome Thomas (Groin). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

After years in the shadows of other managers, Tim Sheerwood is showing he deserves the trust from the board, despite losing to Arsenal in the FA Cup. Spurs are 6th in the Premier League with 37 points only 1 point behind Everton. Crystal Palace is still struggling in the relegation zone with 17 points for 20 matches. However, Tony Pulis' men are only 1 point from Cardiff 16th in the table. That said, they should not expect to get three points with them from White Hart Lane as Spurs should be able to win on Saturday. 

Southampton v West Bromwich

St Mary's Stadium

11-01-2014 @ 15.00 UK

Southampton (4-2-3-1): Davis; Clyne, Fonte, Lovren, Shaw; Cork, Schneiderlin; Lallana, Davis, Ramírez; Rodriguez.

Injuries: Artur Boruc (Hand), Gilherme Do Prado (Knee), Victor Wanyama (Leg). Doubts: Rickie Lambert (Leg). Bans: Pablo Osvaldo.

West Bromwich Albion (4-2-3-1): Foster; Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Yacob, Mulumbu; Amalfitano, Sessegnon, Brunt; Anelka.

Injuries: None. Doubts: Victor Anichebe (Groin), Billy Jones (Head). Bans: None. 

While Southampton started the season in great form West Brom, had their problems. This seems to have changed now as Southampton have lost their place in the top of the league and is falling down through the table losing their last two matches. At the same time,  West Brom are unbeaten in their last 4 matches before visiting St Mary's Stadium. Southampton are still favorites, but given West Bromwich's current form I could see them take at least one point.

Cardiff  v West Ham

Cardiff City Stadium

11-01-2014 @ 15.00 UK

Cardiff (4-3-3): Marshall; Théophile-Catherine, Caulker, Turner, John; Gunnarsson, Medel, Mutch; Noone, Campbell, Whittingham.

Injuries: None. Bans: Craig Bellamy (Knee), Jordon Mutch (Hamstring), Andrew Taylor (Knock), Kévin Théophile-Catherine (Knee). Bans: None.

West Ham United (4-3-3): Jääskeläinen; Demel, O'Brien, Diarra, McCartney; Diamé, Collison, Noble; Downing, Maiga, Jarvis.

Injuries: Andy Carroll (Ankle), Winston Reid (Ankle), Ricardo Vaz Te (Shoulder dislocation). Doubts: James Collins (Calf), Mark Noble (Knock), James Tomkins (Groin). Bans: Kevin Noble.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær is ready for his debut as manager in the Premier League after taking a win against Newcastle in the FA Cup last Saturday. West Ham lost 0-5 to Nottingham Forest in the weekend, and their current form will get them in trouble against Cardiff. The question is if a loss against the Welsh will result in Big Sam leaving the club. However, should The Hammers take 3 points they can bring themselves out of the relegation zone and save Sam Allardyce some time.

Everton v Norwich

Goodison Park

11-01-2014 @ 15.00 UK

Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas are likely to return to the starling line up for Everton after being left out against Stoke adding some extra attacking possibilities for Roberto Martinez. The last three matches have given Everton two victories and a draw before meeting Norwich who are in a crisis at the moment. The Canaries have not won in their last 4 matches and are 15th in the table only 3 points from the relegation zone. Everton normally have a good take on Norwich, and are expected to take all three points at Goodison Park.

Manchester United v Swansea

Old Trafford

11-01-2014 @ 17.30 UK

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Rafael, Vidic, Evans, Evra; Cleverley, Carrick; Valencia, Rooney, Januzaj; Welbeck.

Injuries: Jonny Evans (Back), Marouane Fellaini (Wrist), Nani (Hamstring), Robin van Persie (Thigh), Ashley Young (Shoulder). Doubts: Jonny Evans (Back), Rio Ferdinand (Knee), Phil Jones (Knee), Wayne Rooney (Groin). Bans: Fabio.

Swansea City (4-2-3-1): Tremmel; Rangel, Williams, Chico, Davies; De Gúzman, Cañas; Routledge, Shelvey, Pozuelo; Bony.

Injuries: Michu (Ankle), Garry Monk (Knee), Michel Vorm (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Newcastle v Manchester City

St James Park

12-01-2014 @ 14.05 UK

The match between Newcastle and Manchester City is not just a battle between two clubs; it is also a battle between Yaya Touré and Loïc Remy sharing a third position on the top scorer list with 10 goals. Newcastle was going through a good streak but have lost their last two Premier League matches. Meanwhile, Manchester City are unbeaten in their last 9 matches, in the league, and are only one point behind Arsenal in the table. Looking at the history of the two sides meetings, City should get 3 points at St James Park as they have won the last 9 matches against Newcastle.

Stoke v Liverpool

Britannia Staium

12-01-2014 @ 16.10 UK

Daniel Sturridge is expected to return to the Liverpool squad for the Stoke match, but will probably not start at Britannia Stadium. For Stoke, Jack Butland can be given his first full debut as Asmir Begovic is out while there are doubts about Sørensen. The two sides are known to play some very tight matches, and out of the last 10 meetings Stoke have won 3 while Liverpool have 4 wins on their account. However, Luis Suarez is on fire with 20 goals so far, and he will be a mouthful for the Stoke defends.

Aston Villa v Arsenal

Villa Park

13-01-2014 @ 20.00 UK

Aston Villa (4-4-2): Guzan; Lowton, Vlaar, Clark, Luna; Bacuna, Westwood, Delph, Weimann; Benteke, Agbonlahor.

Injuries: Libor Kozák (Broken leg), Charles N'Zogbia (Achilles), Jores Okore (Knee). Doubts: Nathan Baker (Muscle), Joe Bennett (Back). Bans: None.

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

Injuries: Nicklas Bendtner (Ankle), Diaby (Knee), Kieran Gibbs (Calf), Aaron Ramsey (Thigh), Yaya Sanogo (Back), Theo Walcott (Knee). Doubts: Olivier Giroud (Illness), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Knee). Bans: None. 

After the surprising loss against Sheffield United in the FA Cup, Aston Villa welcomes to league leaders from Arsenal to Villa Park. The home side are currently 11th in the Premier League with 23 points, after winning against Sunderland last round. Paul Lambert will have to look away from Libor Kozák and Jores Okore as they are out with long-term injuries while Charles N'Zogbia is still struggling with his Achilles injury. However, Ciaran Clark is set to return for Villa after his suspension against Sunderland. Arsenal, on the other hand, is struggling with injuries among the strikers. The last week, Wenger has lost both Nicklas Bendtner and Theo Walcott why he only has Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski left. Despite being out with an illness, Giroud is expected to start against Aston Villa, in a match where Arsenal are the favorites. Their current form should be enough to overcome an Aston Villa team still shocked from their exit of the FA Cup.