Liverpool is on the look for a new goalkeeper and Michael Laudrup could take over in a rich club - Here are this week's transfer rumours

Manchester United is ready to offer Toni Kroos £250,000-a-week if he leaves Bayern Munich for Old Trafford (The Mirror) - Probability: Low

Joleon Lescott admits that his days at Manchester City "are numbered" (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Diego Costa will not leave Atletico Madrid this summer the president Enrique Cerezo says (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Sunderland striker Connor Wickham is wanted on loan by Leeds (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Liverpool is set to sign Victor Valdes when his Barcelona contract expires at the end of the season (Daily Express) - Probability: Medium

Southampton is eyeing a move for Alex Buttner of Manchester United, should Luke Shaw quit the club in the summer (The Sun) - Probability: High

Monaco is plotting a move for Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in the summer (Caughtoffside) - Probability: Low

Manchester City have joined United and Chelsea in the race for Luke Shaw (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Former Swansea manager Michael Laudrup is a candidate to replace Claudio Ranieri at Monaco next season (talkSPORT) - Probability: Low

Liverpool will make a bid for Hoffenheim star Roberto Firmino at the end of the season (Metro) - Probability: Low

Roberto Soldado is a target for Atletico Madrid this summer (talkSPORT) - Probability: Low

Patrice Evra could follow Nemanja Vidic to Inter Milan at the end of the season (Daily Express) - Probability: Low



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Only eight matches in this weeks Wednesday Predict due to two rearranged games. That, however, doesn't stop Great Dane Football Blog from giving you a view on the fixture this weekend. 



Stoke v Arsenal
Britannia Stadium
01.03.2014 @ 15.00 UK









Stoke (4-2-3-1): Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Wilson, Pieters; Adam, Whelan; Odemwingie, Walters, Arnautovic; Crouch.

Injuries: Oussama Assaidi (Knee). Doubts: Robert Huth (Knee). Bans: None.

Injuries: Diaby (Knee), Kieran Gibbs (Hamstring), Kim Källström (Back), Aaron Ramsey (Knock), Thomas Vermaelen (Calf), Theo Walcott (Knee). Doubts: Laurent Koscielny (Back), Nacho Monreal (Foot), Mesut Ozil (Thigh), Jack Wilshere (Hamstring). Bans: None.

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

The last two meetings between Stoke and Arsenal at Britannia Stadium ended in draws, but Arsenal have a good take on The Potters with six wins in the last ten meetings. Stoke are currently 15th in the table and have not won in three consecutive matches. Arsenal comes to Britannia Stadium with a draw and a win and are looking to take three points against Stoke this weekend. Currently second in the Premier League and with only one point separating them from Chelsea, 1st, all points are vital for the Gunners, who will take three points against Stoke.


Hull v Newcastle
KC Stadium
01.03.2014 @ 15.00 UK









Hull (4-4-2): McGregor; Rosenior, Davies, Bruce, Figueroa; Elmohamady, Huddlestone, Livermore, Meyler; Jelavic, Long.

Injuries: Robert Brady (Groin), Joe Dudgeon (Knee), Paul McShane (Ankle). Doubts: Alex Bruce (Knock), Tom Huddlestone (Knock), Liam Rosenior (Knock). Bans: None.

Newcastle (4-2-3-1): Krul; Debuchy, Coloccini, Williamson, Santon; Anita, Tioté; Sissoko, de Jong, Gouffran; Remy.

Injuries: Ryan Taylor (Knee). Doubts: Hatem Ben Arfa (Knock), Gabriel Obertan (Knee), Davide Santon (Knee). Bans: None.

After their 4-0 victory against Swansea,  last round Hull are the favorites against Newcastle who are back on track after winning against Aston Villa. Newcastle have not won against Hull since 2004, with Hull winning the last meeting 3-2 at St James Park. Hull are currently ten points behind Newcastle in the table, who are five points behind Everton on the 7th and is hoping to take three points towards the Toffees. Hull are the favorites for the win as they currently are unbeaten in three matches including their FA Cup meetings with Brighton.



Fulham v Chelsea
Craven Cottage
01.03-2014 @ 15.00 UK









Fulham (4-4-1-1): Stekelenburg; Riether, Heitinga, Hangeland, Amorebieta; Dejagah, Parker, Sidwell, Richardson; Holtby; Mitroglou.

Injuries: Matthew Briggs (Hernia). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

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

Injuries: Tomas Kalas (Leg), David Luiz (Muscle), Marco van Ginkel (Knee). Doubts: John Obi Mikel (Knock), Oscar (Knock). Bans: None.

Felix Magath got a draw against West Bromwich in his first match as the manager for Fulham, and this week a far bigger challenge awaits. The Premier Leagues current 1st, Chelsea visits the Craven Cottage with a late 1-0 victory against Everton in their bag. The Cottagers have not won in their last seven matches, and are hopelessly struggling in the bottom of the table, why Chelsea should be able to take three points comfortable. That said, The Pensioners has a match against Galatasaray tonight, and this might cause some tired players for the weekend.


Everton v West Ham
Goodison Park
01.03.2014 @ 15.00 UK









Everton (4-2-3-1): Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Barry, McCarthy; Mirallas, Barkley, Pienaar; Lukaku.

Injuries: Darron Gibson (Knee), Arouna Koné (Knee), Lacina Traoré (Hamstring), Bryan Oviedo (Broken leg). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

West Ham (4-2-3-1): Adrián; Demel, Collins, Tomkins, McCartney; Noble, Taylor; Jarvis, Nolan, Downing; Carroll.

Injuries: Marco Borriello (Hamstring), Joey O'Brien (Shoulder dislocation). Doubts: Ricardo Vaz Te (Lack of match fitness). Bans: None.

West Ham are back in the game after four wins and a draw in their last five matches before meeting Everton at Goodison Park. Everton have played good so far this season, and have lately been best at home, why West Ham can get in trouble on Saturday. The Hammers will have Andy Carroll back from his ban, and he will go directly into the starting lineup to take the battle against Jagielka in the Everton box. However, West Ham have not won against Everton since 2008 and the Toffees are expected to take all three points in this match.


Southampton v Liverpool
St Mary's Stadium
01.03.2014 @ 17.30 UK









Southampton (4-4-1-1): Boruc; Chambers, Fonte, Lovren, Shaw; lallana, Wanyama, Schneiderling, Rodridguez; Davis; Lambert.

Injuries: Jos Hooiveld (Eye). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Liverpool (4-3-3): Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Flanagan; Coutinho, Gerrard, Henderson; Sterling, Sturridge, Suárez.

Injuries: Sebastián Coates (Knee), Enrique (Knee), Lucas (Knee), Mamadou Sakho (Hamstring). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Southampton has an almost injury free squad for the Liverpool match, and the Saints will need every man to get points against a well playing Liverpool. That said, Southampton won the last meeting and looking back on the last 10 meetings the two teams have divided the wins between them with five each. That said, Liverpool are unbeaten in eight matches while Southampton have lost their last two. The Sterling-Sturridge-Suárez attacking line will give the Southampton defends a busy day, and with Lambert expected to be the only front man for the Saints, they are taking a defensive approach on this match.


Tottenham v Cardiff City
White Hart Lane
02.03.2014 @ 16.30 UK









Tottenham (4-1-4-1): Lloris; Walker, Kaboul, Vertonghen, Rose; Capoue; Dembélé, Paulinho, Bentaleb, Lennon; Adebayor.

Injuries: Vlad Chiriches (Back), Erik Lamela (Thigh). Doubts: Etienne Capoue (Ankle), Younes Kaboul (Calf), Danny Rose (Knee), Gylfi Sigurdsson (Thigh), Kyle Walker (Hip). Bans: None. 

Cardiff (4-4-2): Marshall; Théophile-Catherine, Caulker, Cala, John; Noone, Cowie, Mutch, Zaha; Jones, Campbell.

Injuries: Mark Hudson (Hamstring), Gary Medel (Muscle). Doubts: Jordon Mutch (Hamstring). Bans: None.

The bookmakers leave Cardiff with no chance against Tottenham at White Hart Lane, and looking at the Welsh last match you see why. After losing 0-4 to Hull last weekend, Cardiff have not won in their last three Premier League matches, and with Tottenham hoping to come back from their loss last week, Cardiff are getting into a hard game. Spurs are currently fifth in the table and can close in on Manchester United with three points. There is no doubt that, even though they have a number of injuries, Spurs will be in it to win it.


Swansea v Crystal Palace
Liberty Stadium
02.03.2014 @ 16.40









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

Injuries: Garry Monk (Knee). Doubts: Kyle Bartley (Hamstring), Ben Davies (Calf), Michu (Ankle), Jonjo Shelvey (Hamstring), Álex Pozuelo (Hip). Bans: None.

Crystal Palace (4-4-1-1): Speroni; Ward, Dann, Delaney, Parr; Puncheon, Dikgacoi, Jedinak, Ledley; Ince; Chamakh.

Injuries: None. Doubts: Jerome Thomas (Back). Bans: None.

Despite losing to Liverpool last week, Garry Monk have been praised for his manager abilities in Swansea. This week they face Crystal Palace who have lost their last three away matches. The Eagles are currently 16th in the table, two points above the relegation zone and can with a win overtake the Swans position as 12th. However, Swansea are not going to give Crystal Palace any chance at Liberty Stadium, and as one of the teams with most possession in the league, the Eagles shall be happy to even get the ball. 


Aston Villa v Norwich
Villa Park
02.03.2014 @ 16.30 UK









Aston Villa (4-4-2): Guzan; Bacuna, Baker, Vlaar, Bertrand; Albrighton, Westwood, Delph, Weimann; Benteke, Agbonlahor.

Injuries: Libor Kozák (Broken leg), Charles N'Zogbia (Achilles) Jores Okore (Knee). Doubts: Ryan Bertrand (Illness), Chris Herd (Hamstring), Kieran Westwood (Leg). Bans: None.

Norwich: (4-2-3-1): Ruddy; Martin, Yobo, Bassong, Olsson; Johnson, Tettey; Snodgrass, Fer, Redmond; van Wolfswinkel.

Injuries: Elliott Bennett (Knee), Jonas Gutiérrez (Calf), Ryan Bennett (Thigh), Michael Turner (Hamstring). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Norwich got a pleasant win last week against Tottenham while Aston Villa lost against Newcastle. The two sides are side by side in the table with seven wins, seven draws, and 13 loss so far this season. On paper,  the two teams are very equal but looking back in history Norwich have only won one of the last eight meetings. That said, Aston Villa's form seems to be day and night, and the Canaries can be lucky to catch the Lions on a bad day.




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Morten Olsen has just announced his squad for the friendly against England at Wembley.

While Roy Hodgson has announced a 30 men squad for the friendly in March, the Danish manager has settled with 22. Among the 22 players, 11 may be unknown for the English fans as they normally play in the Danish Superliga. However, no need to worry; Lord Bendtner is ready for Wembley.

Former Charlton goalkeeper Stephan Andersen and Leicester keeper Kasper Schmeichel has been selected for the match along with FC Midtjylland's Jonas Lössl. 

In the defends Denmark has Andreas Bjelland, Liverpool's Daniel Agger, former Everton back Lars Jacobsen as well as Midtjylland's Jesper Juelsgaard, Esbjerg's Peter Ankersen and finally Simon Kjær of Lille.  

The biggest name on the Danish midfield is Christian Eriksen and he will be accompanied by either experienced Mainz midfielder Niki Zimling and Fulham loanee William Kvist. The other midfielders for the match are Casper Sloth and Danny Olsen, both AGF, Kasper Kusk, Aalborg BK, Thomas Delaney of FC Copenhagen, Thomas Kahlenberg, Brøndby, Emil Larsen of Odense and Martin Braithwaite of Toulouse and Michael Krohn-Dehli of Celta Vigo.

In the attack former Celtic striker Morten Duncan Rasmussen will battle with Nicklas Bendtner for a place in the starting line up. 

The match is played on the 5th of March.

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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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Mesut Ozil came under fire when he missed the penalty against Bayern Munich on Wednesday. The German decided to apologies for his bad miss - perhaps these chaps should do the same.








5. We don't know where this penalty is taken, but it is really, really poor!

4. Even Wonderkids can have a bad day

3. And so can movie stars

2. This could be better...

1. And finally, this takes the prize as the worst!




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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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The Wednesday Predict is back and ready to give you Great Dane Football Blogs predictions for the weekends Premier League matches!



Chelsea v Everton
Stamford Bridge
22-02-2014 @ 12.45 UK









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

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

Everton (4-2-3-1): Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Barry, McCarthy; McGeady, Barkley, Pienaar; Mirallas. 

Injuries: Antolin Alcaraz (Muscle), Darron Gibson (Knee), Arouna Koné (Knee), Romelu Lukaku (Ankle), Bryan Oviedo (Broken leg). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Chelsea have taken the lead of the Premier League and needs three points against Everton to keep distance to  Arsenal and Manchester City. Meanwhile, Everton finds themselves out of top five with five points up to Tottenham. Manchester United is coming from the back why the Toffees needs a win as much as Chelsea does. The Pensioners have won the last three meetings and are favorites on Stamford Bridge with an almost injury free squad. Lukaku is not available against Chelsea as a part of the loan deal, why Mirallas will move up front for Everton. 


West Bromwich v Fulham
The Hawthorns
22-02-2014 @ 15.00 UK









West Bromwich (4-4-2): Foster; Jones, McAuley, Dawson, Ridgewell; Berahino, Yacob, Morrison, Brunt; Thievy, Anichebe.

Injuries: Nicolas Anelka (Leg), Jonas Olsson (Knock), Goran Popov (Neck), Stéphane Sessegnon (Groin). Doubts: Billy Jones (Knee). Bans: None. 

Fulham (4-4-1-1): Stekelenburg; Riether, Heitinga, Burn, Riise; Tunnicliffe, Kvist, Sidwell, Richardson; Holtby; Bent.

Injuries: Fernando Amorebieta (Knock), Matthew Briggs (Hernia). Doubts: Maarten Stekelenburg (Eye). Bans: None.

West Bromwich can find themselves in the relegation zone if they fail to get three points against a struggling Fulham at The Hawthorns. This will be the first match for Felix Magath as new Fulham manager after René Meulensteen was sacked last week. The controversial German probably won't change much towards the match, but hope that the 'new manager syndrome' will help the players towards three points. The Cottagers played well against Liverpool last week, but ended up losing in the very last minutes, and are hoping to comeback against West Bromwich.

Cardiff v Hull
Cardiff City Stadium
22-02-2014 @ 15.00 UK








Cardiff City (4-4-2): Marshall; Théophile-Catherine, Caulker, Turner, John; Noone, Medel, Mutch, Zaha; Jones, Campbell.

Injuries: None. Doubts: Mark Hudson (Hamstring), Gary Medel (Muscle), Jordon Mutch (Hamstring). Bans: Graig Bellamy.

Hull City (4-4-2): McGregor; Elmohamady, Davies, Bruce, Figueroa; Boyd, Huddlestone, Livermore, Meyler; Jelavic, Long. 

Injuries: James Chester (Hamstring), Joe Dudgeon (Knee), Paul McShane (Ankle). Doubts: Liam Rosenior (Hamstring). Bans: None.

The first meeting in the Premier League between the two promoted clubs ended in a 1-1 draw at KC Stadium. Now they meet at Cardiff City Stadium in a match of much importance for Cardiff as they find themselves in the relegation battle. Hull, on the other hand, have played well this season and are mid-table with 27 points. Both sides only have won win for their last five matches, and this one could be a very tight and evenly played. Hull will not risk losing points against a lower bottom team while Cardiff have to get forward, but as both teams struggle to keep the clean sheet this can end in a draw.


Arsenal v Sunderland
Emirates Stadium
22-02-2014 @ 15.00 UK









Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Wilshere, Arteta; Oxlade-Chamberlain, Oxil, Cazorla; Giroud.

Injuries: Diaby (Knee), Kim Källström (Back), Aaron Ramsey (Knock), Thomas Vermaelen (Calf), Theo Walcott (Knee). Doubts: Santiago Cazorla (Illness). Bans: None.

Sunderland (4-1-4-1): Mannone; Bardsley, Vergini, O'Shea, Alonso; Bridcutt; Johnson, Colback, Ki, Borini; Altidore.

Injuries: Steven Fletcher (Achilles), Keiren Westwood (Shoulder). Doubts: Carlos Cuéllar (Hip). Bans: Wes Brown.

Not only did Arsenal lose 1-5 against Liverpool last round - they also lost important points in the battle for the trophy. Sunderland is the next opponent at Emirates, and they come with confidence after winning against Southampton in the FA Cup last weekend. That said, Arsenal have won the five of the last 10 meetings between the two sides, but will have a midweek match against Bayern Munich affecting the team. Arsenal are favorites but can have some fatigue issues that Sunderland can take advantage of. 


West Ham v Southampton
Upton Park
22-02-2014 @ 15.00 UK









West Ham (4-2-3-1): Adrián; Demel, Collins, Tomkins, McCartney; Noble, Taylor; Jarvis, Nolan, Downing; Cole.

Injuries: Ravel Morrison (Groin), Joey O'Brien (Shoulder). Doubts: Ricardo Vaz Te (Lack of match fitness). Bans: Andy Carroll.

Southampton (4-4-1-1): Boruc; Chambers, Fonte, Yoshida, Shaw; Lallana, Wanyama, Schneiderlin, Rodriguez; Davis; Lambert.

Injuries: Dejan Lovren (Ankle), Gastón Ramírez (Ankle). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

West Ham have found their form with three consecutive wins and are unbeaten in four before meeting Southampton at Upton Park. The Saints started the season in great form, but have since fallen back and are currently 8th in the table. However, they are unbeaten in eight matches and favorites for the win at Upton Park on Saturday. The Hammers are without Andy Carroll who is serving a ban why Carlton Cole is expected to start for West Ham.


Manchester City v Stoke City
Etihad Stadium
22-02-2014 @ 15.00 UK









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

Injuries: Sergio Aguero (Hamstring), Fernandinho (Muscle), Matija Nastasic (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Stoke City (4-2-3-1): Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Wilson, Pieters; Adam, Whelan; Odemwingie, Walters, Assaidi; Crouch.

Injuries: Robert Huth (Knee). Doubts: None. Bans: None.

Despite a minor dive in their impressive form, Manchester City are still the favorites for the Premier League trophy this year. The sky blue takes on Stoke City on Etihad Stadium in a match where The Potters can run into a massive loss. However, Manchester City played against Barcelona last night, and that might affect the players fatigue before the Stoke meeting. Stoke, who are almost injury free, will play a defensive match and try to keep every man behind the ball. I therefore, expect Manchester City to dominate the match, and get a two or three goals win.


Crystal Palace v Manchester United
Selhurst Park
22-02-2014 @ 17.30 UK









Crystal Palace (4-4-1-1): Speroni; Ward, Dann, Delaney, Ledley; Puncheon, Dikgacoi, Jedinak, Bolasie; Ince; Chamakh.

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

Manchester United (4-4-1-1): De Gea; Rafael, Smalling, Vidic, Evra; Valencia, Carrick, Fletcher, Mata; Rooney; van Persie.

Injuries: Jonny Evans (Calf), Nani (Hamstring). Doubts: Phil Jones (Hip). Bans: None.

Saturdays late match takes place at Selhurst Park where Crystal Palace meets Manchester United. The Red Devils won the last meeting 2-0 at Old Trafford and are favorites this time again. However, United have had problems in this season, and could well lose points at Selhurst Park as the Eagles are unbeaten in four consecutive home matches. There has been a pattern in United's play this year with them scoring the first goal and then go into a defensive play style; this can be a problem against Crystal Palace as they will come with all they have.


Newcastle United v Aston Villa
St James Park
23-02-2014 @ 13.30 UK









Newcastle United (4-2-3-1): Krul; Debuchy, Taylor, Williamson, Santon; Anita, Sissoko; Gouffran, de Jong, Ameobi; Remy.

Injuries: Fabricio Collocini (Knee), Ryan Taylor (Knee), Tioté (Hamstring). Doubts: Gabriel Obertan (Knee). Bans: None.

Aston Villa (4-4-2): Guzan; Bacuna, Baker, Vlaar, Bertrand; Albrighton, Westwood, Delph, Weimann; Benteke, Agbonlahor.

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

Given Newcastle's history against Aston Villa with five consecutive matches without defeat, they are the favorites at St James on Sunday. However, Aston Villa needs a win just as much as Newcastle does, with only four points down to the relegation zone. De Jong is ready for his just fourth match for Newcastle and will be on the hunt for his first goal with Newcastle not scoring in their last four matches. I expect Newcastle to go into this match and win against an, at the moment, weak Aston Villa side.


Liverpool v Swansea
Anfield Road
23-2-2014 @ 13.30 UK









Liverpool (4-3-3): Mignolet; Flanagan, Skrtel, Touré, Cissokho; Coutinho, Gerrard, Henderson; Sterling, Suárez, Sturridge.

Injuries: Sebastián Coates (Knee), Enrique (Knee), Lucas (Knee), Mamadou Sakho (Hamstring). Doubts: Jordan Henderson (Wrist), Glen Johnson (Knock). Bans: None.

Swansea City (4-2-3-1): Vorm; Rangel, Williams, Chico, Davies; Britton, Cañas; Dyer, Hernández, Routledge; Bony.

Injuries: Garry Monk (Knee). Doubts: Michu (Ankle), Jonjo Shelvey (Hamstring). Bans: None.

Unbeaten in seven Premier League matches, Liverpool takes on Swansea at Anfield Road, trying to keep the streak going. There should be a great chance of keeping the streak alive as Swansea haven't won in seven consecutive away matches, and are facing a big task against a well playing Liverpool side. So far Garry Monk have won one match, lost one and played a draw since taking over from Michael Laudrup, and the chances are that he can add another loss. Despite having an almost injury free squad, the task seems impossible for Swansea. 


Norwich City v Tottenham Hotspur
Carrow Road
23-02-2014 @ 16.00 UK










Norwich City (4-2-3-1): Ruddy; Martin, Yobo, Bassong, Olsson; Johnson, Tettey; Snodgrass, Fer, Redmond; Hooper.

Injuries: Elliott Bennett (Knee), Jonás Gutiérrez (Calf), Jonathan Hawson (Back), Ryan Bennett (Thigh), Michael Turner (Hamstring). Bans: None.

Tottenham Hotspur (4-1-4-1): Lloris; Walker, Kaboul, Vertonghen, Rose; Capoue; Dembélé, Paulinho, Bentaleb, Lennon; Adebayor.

Injuries: Vlad Chiriches (Back), Erik Lamela (Thigh), Sandro (Calf). Doubts: Gylfi Sigurdsson (Thigh). Bans: None.

The Canaries are more or less a part of the relegation battle this season, and meeting Tottenham Sunday night probably won't help on the situation. Tottenham, currently 5th in the Premier League, are unbeaten in seven away matches and have managed to get Adebayor back in form. The striker can cause the Norwich defends serious problems with his physics, and I expect him to score at least one goal. Tottenham should have no troubles winning this match.
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Rio Ferdinand and John Terry have played their last England match, and now it seems as Ashley Cole is joining the Ex-international. Can Luke Shaw get his first World Cup?

The veterans are ruled out one by one. First Rio Ferdinand was out; then Roy Hodgson announced that John Terry was a part of the past and with Ashley Coles lack of playing time in Chelsea, he looks to be the next to be sacked by England manager. 

The 33-year old defender have not started a Premier League match since 11 January and is being linked with a move away in the summer. César Azpilicueta is the favorite for José Mourinho, and he is not ready to give Cole a chance even though it can cost the defender his World Cup place:

"I cannot think of national teams at the same time as thinking bout my team," he said to BBC. 

Cole's 106 caps for England are being challenged by Everton's Leighton Baines who has been around the squad for a couple of years now. However, two other players are also pressuring Hodgson for a place in the World Cup squad; Arsenal's Kieran Gibbs and Southampton's Luke Shaw. 

While Gibbs is battling with Nacho Monreal for a place in the Arsenal starting line up, Luke Shaw has played 23 matches for Southampton this season, and is considered as one of the greatest England talents for years. The 18-year old are a future prospect for the England side, and will sooner of later earn his spot on the team. 

Leighton Baines are in front of the two younger defenders when it comes to starting for England against Denmark on the 5th of March as well as for the World Cup. However, either Shaw or Gibbs will probably replace the 33-year old Cole in the squad, with the first most likely to be called up. The new England is beginning to take shape.


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Newcastle desperately needs to turn the table after three defeats in a row; can they do it against Aston Villa in Great Dane Football Blogs pick of Match of the Week.


Newcastle United v Aston Villa

Barclay Premier League 27th Round
St James Park
23-02-2013 @ 13.30 UK








How are the two teams form?

One win in five matches; that's the current situation for Alan Pardew and his Newcastle squad, who have lost the last four home matches before welcoming Aston Villa to St James Park. Aston Villa are also struggling at the moment, with 3 consecutive matches without a win. 

Despite, not haven won in the last four matches at St James, Newcastle have a good take on Villa as they have not lost against the Lions since April 2011.

What are the probable line-ups?

Coloccini, Tioté and Ryan Taylor are all out with injuries for the match against Aston Villa while Obertan is rated doubtful. Villa are without Kozák, N'Zogbia and Okore while Herd is rated doubtful. 

Krul

Debuchy - Taylor - Williamson - Santon

Anita - Sissoko

Gouffran - de Jong - Ameobi

Remy
______________________________________________

Agbonlahor - Benteke

Weimann - Delph - Westwood - Albrighton

Bertrand - Vlaar - Baker - Bacuna

Guzan

What to expect from this match?

Given Newcastle's history against Aston Villa with five consecutive matches without defeat, they are the favorites at St James on Sunday. However, Aston Villa needs a win just as much as Newcastle does, with only four points down to the relegation zone. De Jong is ready for his just fourth match for Newcastle and will be on the hunt for his first goal with Newcastle not scoring in their last four matches. I expect Newcastle to go into this match and win against an, at the moment, weak Aston Villa side.

What are the odds?

SportingBet has Newcastle as favorites with a 11/10 bet on a victory, compared to 888sports 37/13 on an Aston Villa win. A draw gives 12/5 at Ladbrokes.


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The transfer window is closed, but the clubs are still looking for enforcement for the summer. Great Dane Football Blog takes a look at the transfer rumours!

Fulham will make a move to sign Schalke's Austria international left-back Christian Fuchs (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Barcelona have joined Arsenal in the race for FC Basel defender Fabian Schar (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Arsenal are in talks with Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala (Caught Offside) - Probability: Low

Crystal Palace and Stoke are both chasing USA international Fabian Johnson (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium

Manchester City are in discussions with IFK Gothenburg over the signing of 12-year-old Kevin Ackermann (Daily Mail) - Probability: Low

Arsenal and Juventus are both tracking Wolfsburg and Germany U21 midfielder Maximilian Arnold (The Mirror) - Probability: Medium


Tottenham are chasing Joel Veltman of Ajax (The Mirror) - Probability: High

Inter Milan are looking to raid the Premier League for reinforcements, with Nemanja Vidic and Erik Lamela as the top targets (Daily Express) - Probability: Medium

David Moyes is looking at Juventus defender Martin Caceres as a replacement for Nemanja Vidic (Talksport) - Probability: Medium










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They are both in the top of the Premier League, but only one of them can move on in the FA Cup! It's time for match of the week between Manchester City and Chelsea.


Manchester City v Chelsea

FA Cup Semi-final
Etihad Stadium
15-02-2013 @ 17.15








How are the two teams form?

It's only been a week since the two sides met at Etihad Stadium, and Chelsea took all three points against Manchester City. Since then, City played a 0-0 draw against Norwich on Saturday while Chelsea won 3-0 against Newcastle. In fact, Chelsea are now unbeaten in 12 matches, including the last two matches in the FA Cup. 

However, statistically Manchester City has an advantage as they have won 6 out of the last 10 matches between the two sides. 

What are the probable lineups?

Manchester City are without the profiles Sergio Aguero, Fernandinho, Javi Garcia and Samir Nasri for the meeting with Chelsea. The opponent from London is struggling with injuries as well, as Tomas Kalas and Marco van Ginkel are out, and John Terry and Fernando Torres are rated doubtful. 

Hart

Zabaleta - Nastasic - Kompany - Clichy

Navas - Touré - Demichelis - Silva

Dzeko - Jovetic
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Eto'o

Hazard - Oscar - Salah

Ramires - Matic

Ivanovic - Terry - Cahill - Azpilicueta

Cech

What to expect from this match?

The two sides often play some very even matches against each other, with only one goal separating them. This match will without a doubt be yet another tight match, where Chelsea will try and copy the success they had a week ago. If the Pensioners manage to keep the strong Manchester City attack away from the big chances as we saw last Monday, they are one big step closer to the final. That said, with City losing points in the Premier League this weekend, they will be eager to perform in the midweek game against Sunderland and continue against Chelsea in the weekend. Despite Chelsea won last Monday, I feel confident City will take a win in the 5th round of the FA Cup.

What are the odds?

Most of the bookmakers have Manchester City as favorites with 6/5 at Boylesport while a Chelsea victory gives 11/4 at BetFred. A draw will give 6/2 at Skybet.

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  • Name: Svenn Crone 
  • Age: 18 (20-05-1995)
  • Position: Right Back
  • Club: Brøndby IF
  • International caps:
    • Denmark U19
      • 4 matches / 0 goals
    • Denmark U18
      • 5 matches / 0 goals
    • Denmark U17
      • 14 matches / 1 goal
    • Denmark U16
      • 7 matches / 0 goals
  • Value: Not available 
He is already a big name on the world wide web, the 18-year-old Danish Right Back from Brøndby If, who is yet to have his official debut for the Superliga side. This week we keep an eye on Svenn Crone.

Crone tied his football boots for the first time in the small club Rødovre BK, just an hour away from Brøndby Stadion where he, hopefully, will have his debut in the near future. That is what the talent is hoping for after he finish college next summer: 
"I aim to get closer to playing for the Superliga squad, and after the summer to fight for a place among the starting eleven. Until then there is nothing else to do than to do my best at every training both with the U19 as well as the Superliga squad  - and play well in our matches during spring," the talent says.
Crone has gone through a massive development since joining Brøndby in an early age. Coming from Rødovre where friendship was preferred rather than development for the talent, and where he played as a striker, to Brøndby and their professional environment was quite a step upwards. Not only was the training on a higher level, he also had to fight for his place on the match sheet:
"When you come to a club as Brøndby IF, you play with the best youth players in Denmark, which means there is competition on all positions of the team. You have to perform your best at training to get on the match sheet for every match."
It is worth noticing that when Crone came to Brøndby, he was placed on the 2. team where he spent six months. However, after a great performance he was spotted by one of the 1. team coaches who brought him into the 1. team for a week. Crone only needed that week to convince everyone that he was there to stay. The talent points out the U17 coach in Brøndby, John Ranum, as one of the reasons why he has come so far and developed to become that talent he is. Furthermore, Crone is not only playing every week for the Brøndby U19, but he is also the Captain and is hoping to take that role at a senior level one day.

However, Crone might not even get to play for Brøndby as the talent has not gone unnoticed in the world of football. Several blogs and websites describe Crone as one of the talents to keep an eye on for the future, as well as Inter Milano was reported to be interested in the defender back in 2012. The talent appreciate the credit, but keeps both feet planted on the ground:
"It's great that they keep an eye on me, no doubt about it, but it is not something I think about, the talent says."
Beside playing for Brøndby U19 Crone have achieved 30 youth national matches for Denmark, and is proud to be a part of the national youth system. The talent believes that the youth matches for Denmark can help him develop and help him earn a place in the Brøndby starting formation from summer. With two years left of his contract, Crone is fully committed to his club:
"Since I was a child, I've been dreaming of becoming a professional football player. The first step comes this summer where I will be playing for Brøndby, one of the greatest clubs in Denmark. From there, the next step will be to have a break through and then move to one of the biggest leagues in the world."
"If I could chose myself, I would play for a top club in the Premier League, the Bundesliga or the Premiere Division in Spain", the talent ends the interview.



















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