Match of the Week: The Battle of Manchester

By Harbo on 03:26

Mancini's troops hang on in the top of the league while van Gaal finally have made an impact on United. Sunday, the two managers, meet in the Battle of Manchester!

Manchester City v Manchester United

Premier League

Round 10

Etihad Stadium

02-11-2014 @ 13.30 BWT

How are the two sides current form?

West Ham have played better than we have seen in many years, and Saturday Manchester City felt the East Londoners success. At Upton Park the Sky Blues were beaten 2-1 by the Hammers but kept their third in the league table, only one point ahead of West Ham.

Yesterday, the rivals from Old Trafford were visited by another London side as Chelsea played a draw against United. Chelsea were in front, but Robin van Persie won a point to Manchester with a goal in overtime, meaning United are currently eight in the league.

What are the probable line-ups?

Samir Nasri are currently the only player on City's injury list while it looks worse with Manchester United. Here, Jonny Evans, Jesse Lingaard, Patrick McNair and Valencia are injured while Wayne Rooney is serving a ban.

Hart

Zabaleta - Mangala - Kompany - Kolarov

Fernando - Touré

Navas - Silva - Milner

Aguero

____________________________________________

van Persie - Falcao

Mata

Herrera - Di María

Blind

Shaw - Rojo - Jones - Rafael

De Gea

Worth keeping an eye on

Yaya Touré - Manchester City: The Ivorian midfielder has not impressed as much as he did last season, but is still key player for Manchester City. If he plays his best, he can be a decisive player for City in this match, but on his worst days you will not even notice him on the pitch. That said, he has the ability of being anonymous in 80 minutes and then suddenly pop up and score the match winning goal.

Daley Blind - Manchester United: Danny Blind will be crucial for the Manchester United defend in this match. The Dutch has to take control of the midfield and play hard against Navas, Milner and Silva and keep them from supplying Aguero the ball.

What to expect from this match?

City have won six of the last ten matches and have the advantage against United. None of the last ten meetings have ended with a draw why we can expect to see a winner by the end of the match, and City are the favorites. However, they displayed their weaknesses against West Ham, and it is up to van Gaal to take advantage of these. Against Chelsea, Manchester United showed that they don't just give up, and their fighter spirit is important against City on Sunday. Comparing the tow sides City looks the strongest, and Aguero will be a mouthful for the United defends. We can expect at close match between the two sides with Manchester City as the late winners.

What are the odds?

Manchester City: 17/20 (Betway)

Draw: 3 (William Hill)

Manchester United: 38/11 (BETBRIGHT)

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Match of the Week: Chelsea v Arsenal

By Harbo on 13:34

Last time these two sides met, the away team was sent home with a 6-0 defeat. Sunday Arsenal are hoping to take revenge in yet another London Derby.

Chelsea v Arsenal

Premier League Round 7

Stamford Bridge

October 5th 2014

How are the two sides current form?

Chelsea are top of the league with 16 points for six matches and are unbeaten so far in the season. The Pensioners are looking strong with Diego Costa scoring when he wants, making him the top scorer of the Premier League.

The Gunners had a draw against the North London rivals from Tottenham, last week and are currently fourth in the Premier League, six points behind Chelsea. Like Chelsea, Arsenal are unbeaten so far this season with four wins and two draws.

The last ten meetings between the two sides have ended in six Chelsea wins against Arsenals two.

What are the probable line-ups?

Chelsea are without the living legend Didier Drogba and midfielder Ramires for the Arsenal meeting. While Chelsea only have two players on the injury list, Arsenals is much longer. The French trio, Olivier Giroud, Mathieu Debuchy and Yaya Sanogo are out. So are Theo Walcott, Nacho Monreal and Serge Gnabry are also sidelined while Mikel Arteta and Aaron Ramsey are doubtful.

Courtois

Ivanovic - Cahill - Terry - Azpilicueta

Fabregas - Matic

Willian - Oscar - Hazard

Costa

___________________________________

Welbeck

Cazorla - Özil - Sánchez

Flamini - Wilshere

Gibbs - Koscielny - Mertesacker - Chambers

Szczesny

Worh keeping an eye on

Chelsea: Cesc Fabregas - The Spanish midfielder is looking forward to his first appearance against Arsenal since his return to the Premier League. The former Arsenal star is a key player for Chelsea, and it will be interesting to see how he will cope with the Gunners fans banter.

Arsenal: Mesut Özil - The German playmaker have topped up his game after he has been moved into the central attacking midfield, and he will be crucial for Arsenals chances in this match. Will this be one of Özils good or bad days?

What to expect from this match?

Chelsea ran over Arsenal last time the two sides met, and with the Pensioners current form Arsenal are in for a challenge. However, the Gunners played well against Tottenham last week and had an amazing 77 per cent of the possession during the second half of the North London Derby. However, Chelsea are a better side than Tottenham and at home they look stronger than ever. There is no doubt the Diego Costa will be a problem for Mertesacker and Koscielny, and if they don't manage to keep him down, Arsenal can look forward to another humiliation at Stamford Bridge.

What are the odds?

Chelsea: 7/10 (Ladbrokes)

Draw: 29/10 (UNIBET)

Arsenal: 19/4 (BetVictor)

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We are going to Europe!

By Harbo on 03:31

Six Premier League sides have qualified for the European competitions this season; four in the Champions League and two in the Europa League. But, what are their chances in Europe??

This year's Champions League will have Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City representing England while Everton and Tottenham will play in the Europa League. Great Dane Football Blog takes a look on the teams chances in their respective groups.

Champions League

Group B

FC Basel 1893, Liverpool FC, PFC Ludogorets Razgrad, Real Madrid CF

FC Basel was one of the big surprises in European football last season, beating Chelsea twice in the Champions League, and are underdogs in this group. There is no doubt that Liverpool and Real Madrid are favorites as group winners. On paper, Real Madrid is a better side than Liverpool, and they should win both matches. Ludogorets are, without a doubt, the weakest team in the group, but can cause problems from Liverpool with their typical East European work rage. Liverpool should advance from group B.

Liverpool fixtures: September 16th - Liverpool v Ludogorets, October 1st - FC Basel v Liverpool, October 22nd - Liverpool v Real Madrid, November 4th - Real Madrid v Liverpool, November 26th - Ludogorets v Liverpool, December 9th - Liverpool v FC Basel.

Group D

Arsenal, Borrussia Dortmund, Galatasaray AS, RSC Anderlecht

Once again Arsenal and Dortmund are facing each other in the Champions League, and they will be the favorites for the win. Galatasaray can come from the back and surprise, especially as Dortmund doesn't look as strong as they have done the last couple of seasons. Furthermore, Arsenal has a history of failing in the Champions League, but the side seems stronger this season. Belgian football is not what is was many years ago, that said, Anderlecht have a lot of European experience, and can cause trouble for all the sides in this group. Arsenal will end as runners up or third in this group.

Arsenal fixtures: September 16th - Dortmund v Arsenal, October 1st - Arsenal v Galatasaray, October 22nd - Anderlecht v Arsenal, November 4th - Arsenal v Anderlecht, November 26th - Arsenal v Dortmund, December 9th - Galatasary v Arsenal.

Group E

AS Roma, FC Bayern München, Manchester City FC, PFC CSKA Moskva

Two giants meet Bayern München and Manchester City clash in Group E, and there is no doubt they will battle for the win in this group. No doubt Roma are a great side, but Italian teams and the Italian Serie A is not what it used to be. CSKA Moskva shouldn't be a hurdle for City at all, but time and time again we see the Russian sides surprise. Manchester City will end as winners of Group E.

Manchester City fixtures: September 17th - Bayern München v Manchester City, September 30th - Manchester City v AS Roma, October 21st - CSKA Moskva v Manchester City, November 5th - Manchester City v CSKA Moskva, November 25th - Manchester City v Bayern München, December 10th - AS Roma v Manchester City.

Group G

Chelsea FC, FC Schalke 04, NK Maribor, Sporting Clube de Portugal

Of all the Premier League sides competing in the Champions League, Chelsea are in the easiest group. No doubt Schalke 04 is a good side, but Chelsea should not fear the Germans nor Maribor and Sporting. Chelsea should win this group without any problems.

Chelsea FC fixtures: September 17th - Chelsea v Schalke 04, September 30th - Sporting v Chelsea, October 21st - Chelsea v Maribor, November 5th - Maribor v Chelsea, November 25th - Schalke 04 v Chelsea, December 10th - Chelsea v Sporting.

Europa League

Group C

Asteras Tripolis FC, Besiktas JK, FK Partizan, Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs did well in the Europa League last season, and are one of the favorites this season as well. Asteras Tripolis and Partizan should not be a problem for Tottenham, while Besiktas is the hardest opponent in the group. That said, Tottenham will be the winners of this group.

Tottenham Hotspur fixtures: September 18th - FK Partizan v Tottenham Hotspur, October 2nd - Tottenham Hotspur v Besiktas, October 23rd - Tottenham Hotspur v Asteras, November 6th - Asteras v Tottenham Hotspur, November 27th - Tottenham Hotspur v FK Partizan, December 11th - Besiktas v Tottenham Hotspur.

Group H

Everton, Krasnodar, Lille LOSC, Wolfsburg

Everton are in a much harder group than Tottenham, facing Lille and Wolfsburg. While Krasnodar should be a walkover, Lille and Wolfsburg are both sides able to cause problems for Everton. However, the Toffees have gone through a major development the last couple of seasons, and they can go far in this years Europa League.

Everton fixtures: September 18th - Everton v Wolfsburg, October 2nd - Krasnodar v Everton, October 23nd - Lille v Everton, November 6th - Everton v Lille, November 27th - Wolfsburg v Everton, December 11th - Everton v Krasnodar.

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Match of the Week: Everton v Chelsea

By Harbo on 13:46

Everton were unlucky against Arsenal last week; now another London side is waiting. Can Romelu Lukaku show Mourinho was wrong not giving him a chance?

Everton v Chelsea

Barclays Premier League

Goodison Park

30-08-2014 @ 5.30pm

How are the two sides form?

Everton have started the season with two draws against Leicester and Arsenal, looking to take the first victory of the season against Chelsea.

Chelsea, on the other hand, have started the season with two convincing wins against the newly promoted Burnley and Leicester.

Chelsea have won five of the last ten matches between the two sides.

How are the probable line-ups?

Ross Barkley and Arouna Koné are both sidelined with a knee injury. The same matters for Bryan Oviedo who is out broken leg, while Steven Pienaar is doubtful with a groin injury.

Chelseas André Schürrle is rated doubtful with a leg injury.

Howard

Coleman - Jagielka - Distin - Baines

McCarthy - Barry

Mirallas - Naismith - Pienaar

Lukaku

________________________________________________

Diego Costa

Hazard - Schürrle - Oscar

Matic - Fabregas

Filipe Luis - Cahill - Terry - Ivanovic

Courtois

Worth keeping an eye on

Everton: Lukaku is the star of the Everton side, and the Belgian striker should be on fire against Chelsea, showing Mourinho he was wrong not giving him a chance.

Chelsea: Diego Costa is the new striker in Chelsea, and he has already scored his first goals for the Blues. Can he bag a few more against Everton?

What to expect from this match?

Everton had a good take on the top teams last season, and the will be a hurdle again this season. Not much has changed in the Everton squad, but that might just be their strength. However, Chelsea won the last meeting between the two sides, and Mourinho's troops are better on paper. But, as we all know, football isn't played on paper.

We can expect much from Chelsea and Diego Costa this season, and they should take a win against Everton.

What are the odds?

Everton: 3 (Matchbook)

Draw: 13/5 (bet365)

Chelsea: 11/10 (Sky Bet)

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The Battle of Stamford Bridge

By Harbo on 05:57

One of the most talked about football topics this summer was the battle between Petr Cech and Thibaut Courtois. Yesterday, Courtois was the first choice against Burnley.

Jose Mourinho kept it a secret until the very first match of the season; who would be his first choice? The answer seems to be Thibaut Courtois. The Belgian international returned from Atletico Madrid prior to this season and had proclaimed that he would only return if it were to become the first choice in the Chelsea goal. However, Chelsea already had one of the greatest goalkeepers in the Premier League; Petr Cech. Now, the Czech is on the bench, but is he better than Courtois?

Great Dane Football Blog have made a quick comparison between the two goalkeepers last season, and here is what we found out:

	2013/2014 Season (Petr Cech in Chelsea) Thibaut Courtois in Atletico Madrid)
32	Age	22
£14.96	Value	£22
46	Appearances	56
35 (0,76 goals per match)	Goals conceded	40 (0,71 goals per match)
22	Clean Sheets	28
Premier League, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FA-Cup	Tournaments	La Liga, Copa del Rey, Champions League and Supercopa

Based on last season Courtois is the best of the two goalkeepers; despite playing ten matches more than Cech he only conceded five goals more, and had a better clean sheet record.

Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole have both left Chelsea, and 32-year old Cech might be the next. This might be the right time for Chelsea to let a new and younger goalkeeper make his impact on the team, but Cech still has an awful lot of experience that might come in handy later in the season; especially if Courtois fails to perform against the better half of the Premier League.

One thing is for sure: Cech is in a part of his career where he can not afford to be placed among the substitutes. The Czech needs to play to keep his position on the Czech national team, and a transfer could be on the way, despite Mourinho wishing to keep his now former No. 1. Both Barcelona and Nuremberg has been mentioned as new clubs for the goalkeeper.

The battle of Stamford Bridge in ongoing and it will be interesting to see if Mourinho can keep Cech in the club. Some will say he has a luxury problem.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 07:47

It's Friday and time to take a look back at the week that past.

Friday 25th April - Hillsborough Wikipedia posts

It was revealed Friday that a number of changes made to the Wikipedia site about Hillsborough were posted from computers on Whitehall's intranet. One of the changes was the Liverpool anthem You'll Never Walk Alone rewritten to You'll Never Walk Again, as well as offensive comments were posted about the people dying in the tragedy. The Cabinet Office has now launched an investigation to find the persons behind the posts.

Saturday 26th April - Giggs first match as manager

He is already a Manchester United legend, and on Saturday he added to his history at the club as he was in charge of his first match as a manager. After a miserable season, David Moyes was sacked last week and Ryan Giggs took over as interim manager and started with great success as Norwich was sent home from Old Trafford with a 0-4 loss in the baggage. There was a glimpse of the old Manchester United in Saturdays match, and the fans will certainly hope that this can keep on in the remaining matches of the season.

Sunday 27th April - Did Gerrard just cost Liverpool the trophy?

It was one of the first 'finals' of the season for Liverpool; a win would add distance to Chelsea and Manchester City and almost secure the trophy. However, Mourinho's reserves surprised against Liverpool and grabbed a 2-0 victory at Anfield Road. The first goal came after a mistake from Steven Gerrard, and if that mistake means that Liverpool will not grab the gold this season, it will haunt him the rest of his life. The second goal came after another Liverpool mistake lead to Willian scoring to 2-0.

Wednesday 30th April - Chelsea's Champions League dream ended

They might have taken a big step in the Premier League, but on Wednesday the luck was gone for Mourinho. In a match where both teams looked afraid to take the initiative, Fernando Torres punished his former club scoring to 1-0. However, it should be the only goal the Chelsea fans could celebrate during the match. Shortly before the break Adrian Lopez equalised to 1-1 which also was the result after 45 minutes. After an hour, Samuel Eto'o committed a penalty on Diego Costa, who executed to 1-2 to Atletico. 10 minutes later Arda Turan closed the match with his scoring to 1-3. Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are now meeting each other in the Champions League final.

Wednesday 30th April - Corinthians tribute to Senna

Yesterday it was 20 years since Formula One driver Ayrton Senna died after a chras at Imola. The racing-driver was a fan of Corinthians, his home-town club in São Paulo, and on Wednesday they paid an unusual tribute to the fan. The entire side was wearing replicas of Senna's distinctive yellow and green racing helmet as they lined up before the game against Nacional.

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Is Football about winning or entertaining?

By Harbo on 07:14

Jose Mourinho has got a lot of critic for the way Chelsea have been playing in the Premier League and the Champions League this season. Now, Andre Schürrle defends his manager.

Last week Chelsea got a draw against Atletico Madrid and won against Liverpool, but after both matches the club have been criticised for the defensive play style. Now, Andre Schürrle have had enough:

"We wanted to win but we knew we needed to play with a compact defence and that then we'd have a few little chances to score, which is exactly what happened. Winning is the most important thing.

"You can play perfect football, lots of one-touch stuff, and you lose. But that's not what you want - you want to win," the German said according to Soccerway.

Chelsea fans will unarguably agree with their German winger, but seen from the outside Chelsea are playing some rather boring football to watch. However, Barcelona have for years played offensive football where it has been more about passing the ball than hitting the target - that too is boring to watch over a longer period. Is football supposed to be about winning or entertaining? Winning is needed to keep the fans, but at the same time, the clubs have an obligation to perform some football worth watching, don't they?

What do you think?

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Match of the week: Chelsea v Atletico Madrid

By Harbo on 05:37

The first match between the two sides was not something to write about, but the winner needs to be found on Tuesday when they meet again at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea v Atletico Madrid

Champions League Semi-finals Leg 2

Stamford Bridge

30-04-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams form?

Chelsea's reserves won against Liverpool yesterday and brought them only two points behind the league leaders. The fact that Mourinho saved some of his players for Wednesday match is promising and we can hope we won't park the bus as he did in Madrid.

Atletico Madrid took another win the weekend and are now six points ahead of Real Madrid, and looks like the Champions of Spain.

Not much have changed in the history of the two sides, but each side now has a win each while two matches have ended in a draw.

What are the probable line-ups?

Petr Cech and John Terry are definitely out for Chelsea. Javier Manquillo is injured for Atletico Madrid while Gabi is out with a suspension.

Schwarzer

Ivanovic - Cahill - Luiz - Azpilicueta

Ramires - Lampard

Willian - Oscar - Schurrle

_________________________

Costa - Diego

Koke - Suarez - Sosa - Garcia

Filipe - Miranda - Godin - Juanfran

Courtois

What to expect from this match?

Jose Mourinho will probably park the bus at Stamford Bridge and hope to beat Atletico on the contras. However, Atletico's offensive will get in Chelsea defends in trouble, especially as the experienced Terry is out with an injury. On paper Atletico are the favorites and they should be the team with most possession throughout the match. I expect Atletico to show that they are one of the European top clubs to keep an eye on for the future.

What are the odds?

Chelsea to win: 13/10 (Bet365)

Atletico Madrid to win: 13/5 (BetVictor)

Draw: 23/10 (SkyBet)

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Match of the week. Atletico Madrid v Chelsea

By Harbo on 01:37

It is two title contestants from two of the best leagues in the world, clashing in the UEFA Champions League semi-final on Tuesday.

Atletico Madrid v Chelsea

Vincente Calderón Stadium

UEFA Champions League Semi-finals

22-04-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams current form?

Atletico Madrid are unbeaten in all of their home matches this season of the La Liga. The same matters for their Champions League campaign where the Madrilenes haven't lost a single match so far.

Chelsea are currently second in the Premier League after losing against Sunderland in the weekend. The Londoners won their Champions League group, but unlike Atletico they lost two of their matches. Furthermore, Chelsea lost the first leg of the quarter-finals against PSG, but managed to make an incredible comeback at Stamford Bridge.

The two sides have met three times before, latest in the UEFA Super Cup in 2012, where Atletico won 4-1.

What are the probable line-ups?

The home side is without Arda Turan and Javier Manquillo while Chelsea more or less should have an injury free squad for the match, but will be missing Eden Hazard.

Courtois

Juanfran - Godín - Miranda - Filipe

Garcia - Tiago - Gabi - Koke

Adrián

Costa

_______________________________

Eto'o

Schürrle - Willian - Oscar

Ramires - Matic

Azpilicueta - Cahill - Terry - Ivanovic

Cech

What to expect from this match?

Atletico was without Diego Costa, but Koke took over against Barcelona in the Quarter finals and with Costa back, they look even stronger. Comparing the two sides season, Atletico are the favorites and looks to have the best squad, especially given Chelsea's striker problems. However, Chelsea are unbeaten in their 15 last clashes with Spanish sides in the Champions League. The three competitive encounters between Atletico Madrid and Chelsea have produced 13 goals, so there should be a good chance we will see the ball in the back of the net on Tuesday.

What are the odds?

Ladbrokes offer odds 1 on a Atletico victory while a Chelsea triumph gives 7/2 at 888Sport. Betvictor offers a 12/5 odds on a draw. Furthermore, Eto'o as first goalscorer gives back odds 8 at SkyBet.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 02:27

It is Friday and nearly weekend, and that means it is time to look back on this week's football events and highlights.

Tuesday April 8th - Demba Ba sends Chelsea on in the Champions League

They were behind 1-3 before the match, and most experts had already put Chelsea in the grave. However, Chelsea wanted it different and especially Demba Ba tried to convince Mourinho that he is still worth keeping in the squad. However, it was Schürrle who scored the first goal after an assist from David Luiz, and PSG didn't seem to be able to answer back. If it was Zlatan Ibrahimovic missing due to an injury, or the players just thought they could walk the victory home is hard to say. However, with just three minutes to go Ba paid back Mourinho's trust sending Chelsea on to the semifinals.

Wednesday April 9th - Hull name change

He wants it so badly, Assem Allam, to change Hull City to Hull Tigers, despite strong opposition from fans. However, the FA has now - for the second time - decided to decline his proposal meaning that Allam can not protest against the decision. The Egyptian has earlier this year threatened to leave the club if he failed to be granted permission for his name switch. Will the fans finally get rid of their number one target?

Wednesday April 9th - Manchester United are out

After 1-1 at Old Trafford, Manchester United fans were hoping their team could surprise once again at Allianz Arena and send Bayern Munich out in the cold. After a rather boring first half where none of the teams looked as they were there to win - Munich could settle with 0-0 result - things started taking speed in the second half. First Patrice Evra scored a goal of a lifetime giving the fans hopes and believe in a semifinal, but less than two minutes after Mandzukic killed the hope. Manchester kept trying and that opened for first Müller and then Robben to finish off Manchester United's Champions League adventure.

Wednesday April 9th - Barca are also out!

Atletico Madrid's win against Barcelona ended the Catalan's unprecedented run of reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League for six consecutive seasons. However, the Barcelona players were outplayed by an Atletico side in great form who deserved the win more than the Catalans did. A player as Lionel Messi was very disappointing and only ran about 6km - the same as José Manuel Pinto in the goal. Koke gave Atletico the lead after just five minutes, and the Madrilenes kept the lead till the end of the match. Could Atletico win the Champions League this season?

Friday April 11th - Cardiff accuse Crystal Palace of spying

Controversial Cardiff City owner Vincent Tan have written to the Premier League accusing former Head of Recruitment Iain Moody, who is not Sporting Director at Palace of spying. According to Tan, Moody should have used contacts at the club to ascertain the starting line-up before the sides met on Saturday. After the 0-3 loss to the Eagles, Tan wrote to Premier League chief Richard Scudamore demanding an investigation, but the Premier League have told Cardiff to make a formal complaint if they wish to take things further.

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Match of the Week: Paris St Germain v Chelsea

By Harbo on 03:41

Two financial strong teams meets in the Champions League, but which one can go on to the next round? The Match of the Week is the first leg between Paris St Germain and Chelsea.

Paris St Germain v Chelsea

Parc de Princes

Champions League Quarter-finals

02-04-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams form?

The hosts from Paris are unbeaten in their last 15 Ligue 1 matches, and have only lost one of their matches in Champions League. Their opponents, Chelsea, lost against Crystal Palace in the weekend and have lost their last two away matches, and have lost two of their Champions League matches this season.

Chelsea won the last meeting between the two sides, back in 2012 when they met in the World Cup for club teams.

How are the probable lineups?

While Paris Saint Germain are injury free according to Transfermarkt, Chelsea will be without Ashley Cole, Samuel Eto'o and Marco van Ginkel.

Sirigu

van der Wiel - Alex - Thiago - Maxwell

Motta

Matuidi - Verratti

Lucas - Ibrahimovic - Lavezzi

__________________________________________

Torres

Hazard - Oscar - Willian

Matic - Luiz

Azpilicueta - Cahill - Terry - Ivanovic

Cech

What to expect from this match?

It's Zlatan against Hazard when PSG and Chelsea clashes at Parc de Princes, and we are looking to get a treat from the two sides. This is Paris Saint Germains opportunity to show Europe that French football is back in the top, and the side have the squad to cause problems for Chelsea. That said, the Brits have the experience and especially their defence should be able to keep Zlatan away from the goal. However, in the other end of the pitch they look less dangerous with Fernando Torres as the only striker available at the moment. Chelsea have played PSG twice in Europe before this season, and have kept a clean sheet in both matches and they can do it again on Wednesday, but at the same time PSG have scored in 16 successive ChL matches, netting at least twice in 12 of these games. The Chelsea defence will be crucial in the match, and I believe it can end in a 1-1 draw.

What are the odds?

PSG are the favorites according to oddschecker.com, with Boylesport having a 11/10 odds on the French. On the other hand, BETVICTOR has a 31/10 bet on a Chelsea victory while a draw gives 5/2 at bet365.

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Will Chelsea hold on to Lukaku?

By Harbo on 10:07

Romelu Lukaku is returning to Chelsea from his loan spell at Everton this summer, but already he is linked
with several clubs.

Last season he scored 17 goals for West Bromwich, this season he is on 11 for Everton; still his future in Chelsea is uncertain. It is the curse of being a talent in Chelsea some will say, as Romelu Lukaku undoubtedly has the talent, but doesn't seem to get a chance with José Mourinho.

His great performances in West Brom and Everton have now caused some attention to the Belgian as the papers today writes that Newcastle, Everton and Tottenham are all interested in signing the striker. A deal could well be under way as Mourinho seems to be more focused on bringing in Falcao or Hulk, and could use the money from a Lukaku transfer. According to the papers, Chelsea demands around £24m for their talented striker.

It seems odd that Mourinho is more focussed on bringing in a name from another league, rather than giving Lukaku, a young player with Premier League experience, the opportunity. However, the two have been in a media battle earlier this year, and this might explain why the manager is willing to let the striker go.

Question is now if this is all just a good story for the press, or if Lukaku will find another club next season.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 04:40

Another week has gone by, and a lot have happened in the world of football; Great Dane Football Blog have picked five highlights, in a week where records have been broken.

Friday March 14 - Anelka sacked by West Bromwich

Nicolas Anelka's West Bromwich Albion career ended Friday night when the French nomad was sacked for "gross misconduct." The striker was given a five-match ban and a £80,000 fine by the FA for the quenelle gesture he mad at Upton Park in December. Just hours before he was sacked, he Anelka announced that he was terminating his playing contract with the club, but it turned out he was sacked. His hunt for a new club might turn out to be a hard one as FIFA is considering a global ban for the 'quenelle.'

Sunday March 15 - Mourinho

Aston Villa won against Chelsea on Sunday, but it was Willian, Ramires and Mourinho who stole the picture. First, Willian was sent off after two yellow cards, then Ramires, rightful, was sent off before Mourinho was asked to leave the bench for arguing with the ref. William only had himself to blame after receiving a second yellow card for a cynical challenge to stop a Delph run. Ramires challenge was not much better, and finally Mourinho felt the referee was against him. Mourinho was yesterday charged for improper misconduct.

Sunday March 15 - Zlatan breaks PSG record

The Swede took his season tally to a club-record with 40 goals in the 2-0 win against St Etienne. Ibrahimovic surpassed Carlos Bianchi's record from the 1977-78 season where the Argentine scored 39 goals. Zlatan surely is one of the best strikers in the world, but credits have to be given to the team behind him and the league he is playing in. Many still believes that Zlatan could be playing in a much better league than the French. However, the Swede can now add another record to his long cv.

Monday March 16 - Lionel Messi breaks Barcelona record

He is only 26 but have already made his 25th hat-trick for Barcelona on Sunday. As it wasn't enough, the hattrick helped the Argentinian to become Barcelona's all-time leading scorer when he helped his side to a 7-0 win over Osasuna. Messi have now scored 371 goals and eclipsed the record set by Paulino Alcantara who scored 369 goals in 356 appearances between 1912-1927. This is the sixth consecutive season in which the Argentinian has scored 30 goals, and currently on 18 goals this season.

Tuesday March 17 - Ronaldo is set to break record

After Real Madrid's Champions League win against Schalke on Wednesday, where Ronaldo scored twice the Portuguese is only 2 goals away from breaking the Champions League goalscoring record. The record holder at the moment is Ronaldo's rival from Barcelona with 14 goals. However, with 13 goals on the account Ronaldo is more than likely to take the Champions League goalscoring record this season.

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Match of the Week: Chelsea v Galatasaray

By Harbo on 07:21

Didier Drogba is coming back to Stamford Bridge and can send his former teammates out of the Champions League. The match of the week is Chelsea v Galatasaray!

Chelsea v Galatasaray

Champions League Round of 16

Stamford Bridge

18-03-2014 @ 19.45

How are the two teams form?

Despite losing to Aston Villa during the weekend, Chelsea are still 1st in the Premier League four points ahead of Liverpool. Their opponents tomorrow are unbeaten in 14 matches in the Superlig and haven't lost at home this season. However, the match tomorrow is played at Stamford Bridge where Galatasaray lost 1-0 last time they visited Chelsea in the Champions League.

What are the probable lineups?

Chelsea are without Ashley Cole , Tomas Kalas, David Luiz and Marco van Ginkel for the match while Galatasaray are without Emre Colak and Aydin Yilmaz.

Cech

Ivanovic - Terry - Cahill - Azpilicueta

Ramires - Matic

Willian - Oscar - Hazard

Eto'o

____________________________________

Drogba - Yilmaz

Sneijder - Melo - Inan - Hajrovic

Telles - Balta - Chedjou - Eboué

Muslera

What to expect from this match?

Galatasaray showed that there is a reason why they are among the final 16 teams in the Champions League in the first meeting between the two sides. This week, they have the chance of sending Chelsea out in the dark, but it is not an easy task at Stamford Bridge. The Chelsea fans will welcome Didier Drogba welcome back at their ground well knowing he can be the man sending them out. Chelsea have the away goal from first meeting on their side, and play a defensive match. However, with opponents as Drogba and Sneijder Chelsea can not feel safe until the final whistle. Galatasaray will have to get forward, so I am expecting a well played match with a high amount of chances in both ends of the pitch.

What are the odds?

Bet365 has Chelsea as favorites with a 2/5 odds while a draw pays best betting with Unibet who offers an odds of 4. Galatasaray gives an odds 8 with Betfair.

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Friday Five

By Harbo on 03:00

It's Friday, and that means it is time to look back on five highlights from the week! This week is all about the Champions League, a man who seems to be unable to keep his pants on and a french legend.

Sunday March 7 - Arsenal fan calls for Liverpool's Agger to be banned

Sam Navret, the same Arsenal fan that started the petition for Luis Suarez to be handed over to Arsenal, Sunday launched a new petition to make the FA ban Daniel Agger for his tackling on Jack Wilshere. During England's friendly against, Denmark Agger broke the leg of Wilshere sending him on the sidelined for the title race. According to Sam Navret 'It has been well-known that Liverpool FC have been on a campaign to destroy Arsenal and we, the fans of Arsenal, believe that Daniel Agger was instructed by Liverpool's owner John Henry to target Jack Wilshere during the match.' What's next Sam?

Wednesday March 12 - Tim Sherwood warns Spurs' players

Perform or leave, that seems to the message from Tim Sherwood after the embarrassing loss to Chelsea in the weekend. Wednesday the manager told the press that "It's come to a stage where we have to start looking at pre-season. I'm the one planning it at the moment and looking at different personnel. The boys here have an opportunity to prove that they want to stay. If not, they'll be moved on and we'll look for replacements. I know the DNA of the guys and I know the ones I can trust and those I can't." Yesterday, Tottenham lost 3-1 to Benfica, so maybe a few of the players are already on their way out the door.

Wednesday March 12 - Two out, two to go?

First Arsenal played an entire match in Munich being one step behind Bayern through 90 minutes. Then Manchester City's billionaire boys were learned a lesson by Barcelona... In both matches, the referees were criticised. Fact is that yet another year English football seems to be run over by German and Spanish teams. That said, Manchester United and Chelsea can still bring some pride to England, but with United being behind with two against Olympiacos the faith lies with Chelsea. Next week will show if England has lost their place in European top football.

Thursday March 13 - Oops, I did it again...

Bendtner, Bendtner, Bendtner... just as we thought he was back and had left all the scandals behind him, Bendtner decides to take off his pants and rub his crotch on a taxi. Furthermore, the Danish striker told the taxi driver that he would "Fuck him" as well as kicked the radio in the cab. Wonder if Bendtner wanting to bang a taxi driver is a clear sign to his girlfriend? One thing is for sure: Bendtner's agent will have to do a hard mans work to find the striker a new club this summer.

Thursday March 13 - Everybody was Kung Fu Fighting

Back in the days Eric Cantona kicked Crystal Palace fans 'Karate-style'; now he is also assaulting pub guests. The French Manchester United legend was arrested in Primrose Hill, London, after a burst up with a pub guest - which didn't need medical treatment - and was trying to walk away from the police. However, an officer stopped the French and finally, got him placed in the back of the police car. There is currently no news about what had happened or whether the victim will press charges against Cantona.

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Match of the week: Galatasaray v Chelsea

By Harbo on 03:48

Didier Drogba welcomes his old pals to Türk Telekom Arena is the Match of the Week between Galatasaray and Chelsea.

Galatasaray v Chelsea

Champions League 1/8-finals Round 1

Türk Telekom Arena

26-02-2014 @ 19.45 UK

How are the two teams form?

The home side, Galatasaray, are currently second in the Turkish Superlig and are unbeaten in 11 matches. In fact, the Turks have not lost at home in any competition this season. Burak Yilmaz is the current top scorer for Galatasaray with 12 goals and is third on the top scorer list in Turkey.

Chelsea are first in the Premier League after a late win against Everton on Saturday. The Pensioners are unbeaten in their last 12 Premier League matches and goes into the Champions League match with confidence. Eden Hazard is the top scorer with 12 goals in the Premier League this season.

The last meeting between the two sides was in 1999 where they both were playing in the Champions League Group H. Back then Chelsea won both meetings 5-0 and 1-0 respectively.

What are the probable line ups?

Aydin Yilmaz is the only player on the Galatasaray injury list while Chelsea's contains Tomas Kalas and Luiz. Furthermore, Oscar is rated doubtful for the match.

Muslera

Chedjou - Kaya - Zan

Eboué - Inan - Felipe Melo - Riera

Sneijder

Drogba - Yilmaz

_________________________________________

Eto'o

Hazard - Oscar - Willian

Matic - Ramires

Azpilicueta - Cahill - Terry - Ivanovic

Cech

What to expect from this match?

On paper, Chelsea are the favorites in this match but the fact that Galatasaray have not lost at home this season gives the Turks a chance. Galatasaray will probably take a more defensive stand in this match and let the visitors take the initiative to create chances. The big question is if Jose Mourinho will spare some of the profiles and put more focus on the tight battle in the Premier League rather than progressing in the Champions League. No matter what Mourinho decides, I will be surprised if Chelsea doesn't win in Turkey.

What are the odds?

According to Oddschecker.com, Chelsea are the favorites with the odds 1 at most bookmakers. Bet365 holds the best bet on a Galatasaray win with 10/3 while a draw gives a 5/2 at Bwin.

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Thursday Transfer Rumours

By Harbo on 02:02

Two Mario's are heading towards the Premier League, and David Beckham is hoping for Cristiano Ronaldo. Here are the Thursday Transfer Rumours.

Jose Mourinho wants Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira to Chelsea in the summer (Daily Express) - Probability: Medium

David Beckham hopes to sign Cristiano Ronaldo for his new Miami team that will take off in 2017 (Metro) - Probability: Low

Inter Milan are plotting a swoop for Newcastle's Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle Chronicle) - Probability: High

Arsenal is hoping to bring in Mario Balotelli from AC Milan after Arsene Wenger held talks with the player's agent (Daily Express) - Low

Arsenal and Liverpool target Mathieu Valbuena of Marseille (Metro) - Probability: Medium

Chelsea could make a move for Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic (Caughtoffside) - Probability: Medium

Wolfsburg forward Ivica Olic is linked with a move to Stoke this summer (The Sun) - Probability: Medium

Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham are all following Portugal U-19 winger Carlos Mane (Sky Sports) - Probability: Medium

Tottenham are also watching Argentinos Juniors midfielder Rodrigo Gomez (The Mirror) - Probability: Low

Liverpool have submitted an offer to sign Bacary Sagna of Arsenal in the summer (Sky Italia) - Probability: Medium

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