The summer months were filled with envy from all corners of the football globe as Real Madrid marvelled in the limelight through astronomical transfer fees which landed the world’s rawest talent.

Having amassed £140 million on just two players, anticipation of the forthcoming campaign was at fever pitch for the Madrid supporters. A near packed out Bernabeu turned up just to witness the unveiling of Cristiano Ronaldo following his £80 million move from Manchester United.

Real Madrid are a club renown for their proud history in Europe’s elite competition, having been crowned Champions a total of nine times, so is regarded highly amongst supporters and the board alike.

So to crash out at the first hurdle of the knockout stages, for the sixth consecutive season, is unlikely to be received particularly well in the Spanish capital.

Ronaldo, down and dejected following Real's premature exit from the Champions League

Mauel Pellegrini’s tenure at the helm has been under increasing speculation, and last nights exit at the hands of Lyon, who currently occupy fourth spot in an incredibly tight Ligue One, may well prove to be the straw which breaks the camels back.

One saving grace for the Chilean is the his sides domestic position, where they sit top of the pile in La Liga – on goal difference from bitter rivals Barcelona. To switch manager now would surely have a detrimental affect on the playing squad? Chances are, President Florentino Perez will persist until the end of the current campaign, and then swing the axe, with the club averaging around a manager a season.

Having said this, last nights humbling will have cut deep in Madrid, but once again proves that throwing financial muscle around doesn’t necessarily bring with it instant results.

A possibility could be to try and gain some stability. Just because a player is dubbed as being in the world’s elite, in no way does this guarantee he will collude and slot into a side already full of ‘Galacticos’, a penny which should may well have dropped with the Real board by now.

Granted, importing individuals with the calibre of Ronaldo and Kaka is bound to have its positives points, as bringing in superior players would do at 5-a-side or 6-a-side football level. But what would the current squad feel about the constant roll call of ‘superstars’ who are continually thrown into the mix? On one hand, bringing in new players adds a fresh impetus, competition for places increases and gives the manager a selection headache – one which, in the case of Real Madrid, makes every other head coach green.

Then on the other hand, the merry go round can have major disruption on the squad, not just on a tactical level, but personal also. Think of it from a 5-a-side soccer or 6-a-side football perspective.

Surely Real now have enough talent not to get the cheque book out in the forthcoming summer months and let this seasons crop develop and form an understanding of one another?

The likelihood of Real keeping the current squad unscathed for next season is highly unlikely, and the chances of Pellegrini still being in a job is even more remote.

Pellegrini - borrowed time?

So whichever individual takes over the reigns (reports are already circulating that the Spanish giants will make an audacious move for Arsene Wenger), will then want to bring in his own players and so the cycle continues.

A famous club with a proud history. Stability is vital in ensuring that history evolves into present and future.

Alex Z

The second tier of English football tends to be a very interesting one.

The final table can make somewhat of a mockery of pre season predictions, with a number of surprise packages emerging to upset the applecart.

And so, again, there are a number of sides who are currently exceeding expectations. Nottingham Forest were always going to be stronger than last campaign, but most wouldn’t have considered potential automatic promotion at this stage. Swansea and Leicester City are have fantastic season’s, especially considering the latter’s attempt to gain back to back promotions.

Then there are those who deemed it likely to be up there, in the mix, but have found life in the Championship a real struggle, notably Ipswich Town, Reading and Queens Park Rangers.

All in all, it is a very tough division to get out of, especially for relegated teams, which is why it is vital to try and make an instant return. It may compare to your 5-a-side soccer or 6-a-side football league. Win a few and you’re up there, fighting for promotion to the top flight, lose a couple on the bounce, and you are looking at 6-a-side football oblivion and the trap door.

Much was made out of Newcastle United’s decline and relegation from the top flight, with a real expectation that they may “do a Leeds”, and drop through the leagues at an alarming rate. The future looked grim. Uncertainty loomed. A chairman in Mike Ashley who realised that ploughing money into a club you support isn’t always nice and rosy, and a manager unaware of how long he would be at the helm, with no contract in place.

This is why the professional manor in which Chris Hughton has gone about guiding Newcastle to an inevitable return to the Premier League shouldn’t be underestimated. The turmoil in which the Magpies found themselves was all to evident to see after a thumping pre season friendly defeat to Leyton Orient led many to suggest a season of struggle in the Championship.
Hughton has worked wonders at Newcastle

So the way in which Hughton has galvanised a demoralised squad, remaining unbeaten at home thus far, with seeming ease, is an outstanding achievement. Following the weekend’s 6-1 mauling of Barnsley, Newcastle sit eight points clear and it would seem as if an instant return is now nothing more than a formality.

However, Mike Ashley has received some heavy criticism on Tyneside, at one point being hounded out of St James Park, following the clubs increasing bad run of form and appointment of Denis Wise, added to the Kevin Keegan saga, with the ‘Messiah’ walking out of the door.

Maybe, then, it would be justifiable to give the man some credit. Since appointing Hughton as permanent manager the football on the field has seen Newcastle march to the summit, and stay there for the majority of the season. The temptation to sell in January was resisted, with Hughton being given the opportunity to further strengthen his squad rather than offloading high earners.

Ok, so there may have been a certain degree of fortune in persisting with Hughton, when it became clear that Ashley was looking for another boss after the departure of Alan Shearer.

Since then however, Ashley has stabilised the club and helped steer it in the right direction.

Ashley continues to receive criticsm on Tyneside

A number of Newcastle fans are still persistently targeting the owner, which has led to director Derek Llambias to publicly defend the chairmen, stating: “if it wasn’t for Mike’s continued input, we would be in a similar position to Portsmouth. Since the beginning of the season he has pumped £25.5 million into this football club, and this week a further £5 million was needed. In addition to these amounts, Mike, realising the need to bring in new faces and back his manager’s request, spent £5.5 million in the January transfer window.”

These are the facts of what Ashley has done this campaign. Ok, he has made past errors, some of them proving to be pretty major, and having a detrimental downturn in the clubs fortunes.

A season is a very long time in football, at any level, whether it be at your 6-a-side league or at the pinnacle of the professional game. Would it not be right now to forgive? Not necessarily forget, but just move on. Newcastle will be promoted, and who knows, this time next year could be challenging for Europe.

Then maybe the hounding of a man who has ploughed millions and millions of pounds into a football club he quite clearly cares a big deal for will persist. Maybe.

Alex Z

“Boring boring Arsenal.” It was a chant which frequently, if not constantly rung around the Gunners old Highbury Stadium from the visiting section, mocking the style often adopted by George Graham’s men.

Maybe not the most enchanting of football, but it certainly suited the old Arsenal way, with such a formidable backline ensuring that a 1-0 victory was often the case. Tony Adams, Steve Bould, Lee Dixon, Nigel Winterburn, all classic, no nonsense, English defenders.

Of course, these times are now firmly in the history books, with Arsene Wenger’s current crop often displaying the most exciting football in the country, toying with the opposition and turning a game on its head with lightening speed and precision.

However uneasy on the eye, sitting back and grinding out a narrow win can be, it doesn’t half add up in the long run. Just ask the Arsenal fans and players who witnessed the old First Division title triumph’s of 1988-89 and 90-91.
Tony Adams was influential in Arsenal's 'shut up shop' days

One side that may well have watched an odd video or two of these highly successful Gunners side’s, are Swansea City.

While their has been seemingly endless media coverage attributed to Championship leaders Newcastle United, with practically every game being shown live somewhere, the Welshman have gone about their business, in a quiet, effective manner.

The Swans currently reside in fourth place, comfortably in line for a play off spot come May - at the least. Little attention has been paid to Swansea’s progress, and perhaps this is exactly how Paulo Sousa wishes it to stay.

Regular visitors to the Liberty Stadium won’t have had too many end to end enthralling spectacles to treasure in the memory, but if Swansea do indeed reach the Premier League, it is unlikely that many will be complaining.

Granted everyone likes to see an attacking style. Most people will prefer playing one, especially when it comes to 5-a-side soccer and 6-a-side football. Indeed the 6-a-side game one is reliant on attacking the opposition. The chance of competing at your local Leisure Leagues where a team sits back and invites pressure is minimal. But on an 11-a-side level, it is a tactic often deployed.

Swansea style has produced a remarkable record this campaign. As stated, they currently sit in fifth, just seven points of the automatic places, which is an achievement in itself. But to sit in this position, having scored just 30 goals in 33 games is quite remarkable. Added to that, the Swans have conceded just 22. Just 22 times has the ball hit the back of their net. Six of these goals have come from two games, both of these were 3-0 defeats, to runaway leaders Newcastle, and Middlesbrough, which could be put down to momentary lapses of concentration.

 Sousa is steering a very tight ship at Swansea

Just take a look out Sousa’s side’s latest sequence of results. Preceding Saturday’s 1-0 victory over basement boys Peterborough United, was a battling 1-0 win in a very fiery encounter at Pride Park, two 1-1 draws away at Plymouth Argyle and at home against Newcastle United, whilst earning three points with a 1-0 victory at Selhurst Park.

In total thus far, Swansea have won by one goal to nil, eight times, whilst triumphing by the odd goal margin on 10 occasions in total.

When Sousa’s men aren’t sneaking to maximum points, they are grinding out valuable points, having drawn either 0-0 or 1-1 13 times this campaign. This is an incredibly defensive record, something which even some of the 6-a-side football teams in the Stockport Leisure Leagues would be proud of!

The Swans contingent will surely be delighted with a play off finish. There was of course, much uncertainty after Roberto Martinez’s departure for Wigan Athletic in the summer, who subsequently took some of last years key performers with him to the JJB. There seemed to be a mixed reaction to the appointment of Sousa, who became a long list of managers unceremoniously sacked by Queens Park Rangers, very harshly.

Perhaps Flavio Briatore & co look upon Swansea’s form and league position with a tinge of regret, well at least their much suffering supporters do, as the former is perhaps unlikely to muster any feelings to the situation.

It remains to be seen if the Swans can really take off and make an assault on the automatics, but it does seem a little unlikely. Either way, it demonstrates that there is still ample room in the modern game, for playing backs to the wall football and producing results from it.

Alex Z

Football is often referred to as the beautiful game, one which continually gets taken to new levels of technicality and skill.

England, for example, as the inventors and supposed masters of the game, found to their cost at Wembley back in 1953 that football was a fast developing sport. The way in which Ferenc Puskas and his Hungarian teammates tore into the home side in a 6-3 mauling brought a whole new realisation to the shores, that football had been stepped up a gear.

It enlightened the English game, helping to improve it vastly, certainly giving the national side the kick start it needed to erase the air of false arrogance of “we invented the game so are obviously the best at it, and will stick to our negative, out of date style”.

The 1960’s and 70’s were predominant for the evolution of the game, with Brazil glorifying the offensive style, tearing into sides with raw skill and brilliance, exciting audiences across the globe will their all out attacking play. The likes of Zito, Garrincha, and more notoriously Pele, demonstrated how easy football can be on the eye, seemingly brushing past sides with ease, with more than an air of class.

The South Americans weren’t alone with supplying a fresh impetus. Two words. Total football. Maybe the Dutch master-class took some tips from the Brazilian’s, but, Johan Cruyff certainly envisaged a very special method of play. Under the guidance of Rinus Michels, the Orange Army reached the final of the 1974 World Cup after seeing off past masters Brazil, and Argentina along the way.

Puskas helped to change the face of the English game

After retiring, Johan Cruyff dabbled in management, rather successfully it has to be said, and, like in his playing days, attempted to adopt the unique ‘total football’ approach. Rumour has it, that while at the helm of Dutch giants Ajax, Cruyff knew no boundaries, reportedly playing a young Dennis Bergkamp as a defender in training, to give him a better perspective of the game.

Football can be a game of skill, something which is a beautiful spectacle when contested in such ways as the above

Indeed, 5-a-side soccer and 6-a-side football, when played at a high standard, is a skill. The Leisure League national tournament clearly demonstrates this, with the elite 6-a-side football sides coming from across the length and breath of the British Isles to compete for honours.

Six a-side football is obviously played in a more compact arena. Indeed there is definitely a certain element of skill in engineering space, becoming available for that pass which can create a match defining goal.

However, more often than not, the beautiful game is not all that pleasing on the eye. Teams come prepared with a game plan, to stifle the opposition, stop them playing and grind out a battling point. It is seem across the country, continent, in every league at any level.

And what is wrong with it? Teams play to their strengths. Not every club, has the ability to splash out millions of pounds on the next Fabregas, who can pick a pass from virtually anywhere on the pitch. Sure, he is a joy to watch, but then on the other hand, a side who can successfully tactically stifle this kind of player deserve an element of credit.

Look at the masters of the defensive game, the Italians. The national side have an illustrious history, having being crowned World Champions four times added to a solitary European Championship in 1968 – at the first attempt. Cruyff once infamously stated “Italians can’t defeat you, but you can lose to them.” Read into that what you will, but it suggests, albeit indirectly, that they are tactically admirable. Well it may do anyhow.

If there is a considerably skill-full individual lining up for the opposition at your local 6-a-side football league, then to mark them out of the game, deny any opportunity on the ball, is admirable.
Johan Cruyff - A masterclass

So if a side goes to Old Trafford for example, doubles up on Wayne Rooney, stops the ball reaching the home sides threats, and comes away with an invaluable point, instead of criticising, have a think about how whichever manager it happens to be, has triumphed in a tactical battle.

It’s not just in a defensive sense that teams can be accused of playing a ‘dull’ game. Lumping the ball up to a bulky target man often has its critics. Stoke City for example, have been targeted for their long throws ins. Ok, so it doesn’t make for a masterpiece that is often displayed by Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal, but how many times have they come away from the Britannia Stadium in recent years with nothing to show for their efforts? Added to the fact that numerous teams from across the Football League have also discovered that one of their players has a big throw, the Potters could be earmarked as trend setters of their own.

Everyone has great admiration for football when it is played in the most attacking of ways, with fast, fluent passes, accompanied with nice touches and great vision. However, every team will play to their strengths, and if that is playing a long ball to a target man, then so be it. If it isn’t your cup of tea, then turn off your TV or stop going to the games – then again, you’re not really a fan of football, just the nice on the eye stuff.

Alex Z

Robbie Savage has been dubbed the marmite man. By himself

Unlike Neil Warnock, who was discussed in a recent blog, Savage has the self proclaimed slogan branded across his column in The Mirror.

It is an enjoyable read. The fiery Welshman speaks his mind, and his no holds barred attitude certainly adds a bit of spice to proceedings.

Seemingly, one of the main purposes of a columnist, especially when the individual is still playing at professional level, is to provide the average fan with an insight into the game, the going ons of a football club.
Savage received abuse from Blues fans

To a certain extent, Savage provides this, but more often than not, he uses the column to settle, or voice a counterargument on a petty squabble that, more often than not, he has previously provoked.

So it was the turn of Roger Johnson on Friday, following Derby County’s exit from the F.A Cup fifth round, where Savage accused the former of lacking class for comments made during and after the match. Savage, as a two time Birmingham City player of the year, which he pointed out, believes that Johnson, who “only has a handful of Premiership appearances”, should show a little respect.

Maybe so, but Savage also stated, “I’m a wind up merchant”. Well maybe, if you are such an expert at winding up opponents, you would be a little less susceptible to the odd comment fired in your direction?

Possibly, if 6-a-side football received as much media exposure, and your side was provided a column to voice opinions, an occasional dig at bitter rivals would be on the agenda. Some however, continually use the privilege to settle scores, which arguably, no pun intended, should be resolved on the pitch.

As predicted, the Derby midfielder also came into some vocal criticism from the following Birmingham City contingent with shouts of “One Greedy…..” constantly aimed in his direction. Savage has promised to reveal that money wasn’t in his move away from St Andrew’s – in his forthcoming book: “The Birmingham fans shouted I was greedy, but I wasn’t greedy. The fans will find out when I publish my book that wasn’t the case.” Well Blues fans will definitely be holding their breath for that bestseller. Anyone else see the irony in the above statement? It’s almost a contradiction in itself – ‘I’m not going to reveal why I wasn’t greedy until I sign a lucrative book deal, then I will reveal all.’

It’s anyone’s guess what enthralling stories the Welshman will have to tell in this week’s column. However, a betting man may have a sneaking suspicion that some column inches will be dedicated to Gorka Pintado, and his potential “career ending tackle”.

Remember, Robbie Savage is a self proclaimed wind up merchant. Chances are, you will have experienced this type of player, whether it be on a Sunday, or at your 5-a-side soccer or 6-a-side football Leisure League. The mouth. Part of their game is to antagonise opponents, make people boil over. In this instance, it worked.

Click on the photo to see that tackle courtesy of the BBC.

In no way is this condoning the tackle, it was indeed disgraceful, and could quite easily been a leg breaker. However, part and parcel of Savage’s game is to get in the mix, to niggle away at opponents, to irritate them, so why is there an element of surprise when a player loses it? Granted, the way in which Pintado did ‘lose it’ was pretty spectacular, and ignited an 18 man brawl, which has resulted in both sides being charged with failing to control their players by the F.A.

The morale of the story for Savage is, that not every individual has a never ending patience, and that if you continually play with fire, occasionally you may end up getting burnt. Consider that in your book.

Alex Z

Who has the power to decide what is a clubs “strongest team”?

Ninety nine percent of the time, the first answer that springs to mind is the manager, and in some circumstances, especially if you are follower of Queens Park Rangers, the chairmen and board.

Well apparently, following today’s ruling, the Premier League board are a good judge of what consists of a competitive starting eleven.

They have ruled that Mick McCarthy’s team selection against Manchester United on the 15th December was so inferior that it constitutes a £25,000 suspended fine for breaching Rule E20 and Rule B13 of the Premier League.

In that essence, the resulting fine given to Wolves is correct. Rule E20 clearly states “In every league match, each participating club should field a full strength team.” The Board also deemed that McCarthy’s selection had failed to fulfil its obligations to the League and other clubs in the utmost good, thus not complying to Rule B13 of the Premier League regulations.

Not that there is any questioning the integrity that these bring to the English game, why decided to deploy them now? Numerous examples of manager’s clearly fielding weakened sides have previously gone unpunished. How many times have Manchester United themselves, for example, having already been crowned champions, giving youngsters a taste of top flight action?

Imagine for example, Leisure Leagues bringing in implications to your 5-aside soccer or 6-a-side football league, whereby we dictate who you can and can’t pick to play. It wouldn’t go down very well, and neither should it. However, in the professional game, there is a far wider context to consider.

On the contrary, the frustration felt by the travelling Wolves contingent, on the realisation that McCarthy had indeed picked a second string side, was bound to boil over a little, with chants such as “£45, to watch the reserves ringing round Old Trafford.” Put in that context, then it is obvious why some quarters would feel that there is no excuse for fielding a ‘weakened’ side.

McCarthy has excepted the decision

Then there would also be the disappointment for the players at Wolves. Surely one of the enticements in gaining promotion to the Premier League was to play against the best players in the best stadia? That opportunity was quashed by McCarthy when he decided, without even attempting an assault, that points were Mission Impossible and weren’t worth risking injury for.

However, Mick McCarthy’s objective for the incredibly tough first campaign in the top flight, isn’t to play his strongest available side thus pleasing the supporters. It is to keep the club afloat, to stave off relegation, and stabilise Wolverhampton Wanderers as an established Premier League club. After all, won’t the Molineux hardcore be happier when (if) they don’t have to return to facing Doncaster Rovers and Scunthorpe United next season? It is a tactic which may even be deployed at your local 5-a-side soccer or 6-a-side football league, although resting players may not be such a beneficial move, it could help the side prepare for a more vital fixture.

In an ideal world, Wolves would be able to field their strongest side week in week out, but the looming threat of relegation, and the financial implications which come with it, essentially mean that this isn’t possible. Management have to consider what is the best for the club in the long run, and, subsequently, the board and chairmen. The modern game is very much money orientated, and there is more capital in stringing a few seasons together in the Premier League, than going all guns blazing at Old Trafford, picking up a backlog of injuries, and suffering the consequences.

As it turned out, Wolves went on to beat Burnley in the succeeding fixture, in what is evidently developing into a relegation six pointer. On hearing the action McCarthy has stated that he wouldn’t revert to the tactics again, despite the positive outcome: “Everyone can have there opinion on it. Mine is, I’m absolutely glad it’s done an dusted with. Will I change 10 players again? I think you will find it’s impossible to do it.”

Wolves went on to win the following fixture against Burnley, perhaps justifying McCarhty's selection

Perhaps the former Republic Of Ireland’s comments were made with a hint of sarcasm, directed at the bigger power’s who continually belittle such prestigious competitions by rotating half of their squad.

Of course, it is reference to the F.A Cup which is constantly being undervalued by sides and their managers, who feel that it is not worth fielding their strongest side for.

Now you have a situation as to where the line should be drawn. Could the Premier League Board and the F.A club together and draw out a stringent guideline which clearly states what constitutes fielding a ‘weakened side’, thus resulting in a set punishment, probably a fine?

Until there is a clear ruling in place, then fines shouldn’t be handed out on random occasions. Either bring a system into place which will be implicated, clearly, on any side which breaks the guidelines, or don’t do it at all. Why have Wolves been singled out? Maybe to be made of an example of - McCarthy stated that it was a ‘deterrent’.

Well why not put in place a permanent deterrent, and stop the pointless singling out of sides on an ad-hoc basis. Image the repercussions for the F.A and Premier League if a fine was implicated on Manchester United. Well keep on imagining, because it just wouldn’t happen. One rule for one, and another for others…

Alex Z

Here at Leisure Leagues - the home of 6 a side football -  we are constantly trying to improve our website.

We want to make it as easy as possible for teams to to use.

With that in mind over the last few days you may have noticed some changes to the "REGIONS" page in England.

If your  6 a -side league is in one of the following places:

Liverpool (5 a side football) Thursday

Chelmsford  Monday and Wednesday

Milton Keynes Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday 

Bath (Monday and Thursday)

Swindon  6 a side Sunday and 5 a side football Thursday or

Guildford/Godalming Thursday

Then you can now navigate directly to your league from the AREAS section

The Continental game. Say these words to your average follower of English football and most switch off.

Seire A, for some, is even more of a taboo subject. It ignites visions of a back four passing it from left to right and then back again, occasionally looking up to see what’s available in midfield, before deciding that there aren’t sufficient options, and turning to the man in the sticks instead.

Maybe this is a slightly harsh observation and a stereotypical outlook on the Italian game, but the performance of their domestic sides on the European stage may suggest a struggle against more forward thinking opposition.

Certainly AC Milan shot out of the blocks at the San Siro last night, and credit to them for attacking Manchester United and taking an early lead, albeit with a fortuitous strike from Ronaldinho.

Not many would have fluttered with a 3-2 score-line for either side, with most predictions angling for a cagey 1-0. There was an expectancy for AC to take a narrow lead back to Manchester, and defend it with two banks of four, if not a four or a five, which is so reminiscent of past masters from the continent. Contrary to this, Milan looked uncomfortable with the slender lead, and were duly punished as Wayne Rooney’s devastating display demonstrated just how fragile the home sides backline is.

However, not so long ago, the defensive minded style of Italian football ensured that Serie A dominated Europe. Who can forget, or remember, the Juventus AC Milan final at Old Trafford in 2003?

As unattractive in an attacking context as the Italian style is, it was effective. Seemingly, it doesn’t necessarily cut the mustard in today’s game, where sides across the globe play in a very much offensive manor.

It could well be that it is a dated style of play, but one underlying factor, for AC anyway, was the ageing side which faced Manchester United. Alessandro Nesta is undoubtedly one of the best centre backs of the modern game, but the World Cup winner turns 34 next month, and may not have the legs to keep tags with the likes of Rooney, especially with the form the livewire is in. Daniele Bonera is only just shy of thirty, and looked slightly sluggish.

Milan celebrate their early opener

Then take into consideration the Milan midfield, the engine room. Undoubtedly, as with the back line, the midfield oozes talent. Creativity clearly isn’t a problem, but where is the ball winner who can run the opposition into the ground? Andrea Pirlo sits deep, and needs to, when surrounded by individuals who are all the wrong side of 30. Captain, Massimo Ambrosini, 32, and David Beckham, 34, aren’t exactly players who will run all day, whilst Ronaldinho, who, although had a reasonable game last night, is a shadow of his former self.

These players may be able to dazzle on the domestic stage, but when playing against Europe’s elite, it is a totally different kettle of fish. Three Serie A sides remain in the Champions League at the last 16 stage, but it wouldn’t be the most magnanimous of shocks if none of these appeared in the Quarter Finals.

Inter Milan are largely considered to have a stranglehold on the domestic league, a dominance that has been unrivalled ever since the repercussions of the match fixing scandal. Jose Mourinho’s men are all set secure their fifth successive Serie A title, sitting seven points clear of closest rivals Roma.

As has been well documented and publicised, Mourinho takes his Inter side to face Chelsea, in what should be an intriguing affair. The Portuguese showman is renown for protecting leads, and may demonstrate if the defensive style is likely to prevail when faced with Chelsea’s attacking flair.

Then there is Fiorentina, who tonight travel to Bayern Munich, with the former, in comparison to lasts years exploits, having a shocking domestic campaign, currently sitting 11th in Italy’s top flight.

Everyone likes a mature individual in their side. Someone who can take the pressure off others around them, a calming influence on the younger players. There may be someone in your 5-a-side soccer or 6-a-side football team who fits this exact bill. However, most will be complimented by players who will tirelessly close down the opposition, a real work horse – a Gennaro Gattuso if you like, just two or three years ago.

Maybe all of the above sentiments are wrong, the Italian sides will all progress into the final eight, Juventus will go to Ajax in the Europa League and grind out a 1-0 win to take back to Turin, defend this at home and go all the way to glory. A counterargument would point in the direction of the Italian national side and their success in Germany, that they will be going to defend their crown in South Africa. It may be that the defensive style is more suited to the International stage, but there is a strong inclination from many circles that they won’t be retaining their trophy come what June.

Or maybe, its time that Italian side’s took note of their underachievement on a European stage, and, if not adjusted their style of football, at least invested in some raw talent who can offer a brighter future.

This criticism could be slightly premature, after all, AC Milan were Champions League conquerors as recently as 2007. However, analyse the fortunes of Italian sides with the elite of England, Spain, and to a certain extent Germany, and it pales in comparison. Football is a sport which is becoming increasingly fast paced, and as well as Italian can produce admirable defensive displays, it may be time to play catch up.

Alex Z

Neil Warnock has always been a largely outspoken individual in the world of football, so much so that he has been dubbed the marmite man by some corners.

Yes, the old, you either love him or you hate him chestnut. Well, unless you are either a supporter of Sheffield United or Crystal Palace, it would be an educated guess that it is the latter.

Warnock seemingly has an uncanny knack of being able to wind up opposing players and management with his antics on the sidelines, and following yesterday’s F.A Cup fifth round clash with Aston Villa, the Palace boss didn’t hold back when asked about the visitor’s controversial equaliser, which subsequently forced a replay.

Assistant referee Trevor Massey incorrectly awarded Aston Villa a corner, which Stiliyan Petrov converted, when the ball had in-fact come off Nathan Delfouneso. It was unfortunate for Palace, but Warnock clearly feels that there should be consequences for the official: “There second goal was a disgrace. We gave everything and in the end we were let down by incompetence. I’ve been told that if Mr Massey got it wrong he’ll be suspended. I hope he is, and I hope he is suspended for a long time.”

A familiar stance from Warnock

Certainly strong words. Ones which could see Warnock in hot water with the F.A – again. Football is clearly a passionate game. Anyone who plays, manages watches, can support this. However, decisions can go against you at any level, and although the standard of refereeing is very high, even 5-a-side soccer and 6-a-side football Leisure Leagues officials can make the odd error.

The circumstances surrounding Crystal Palace have been well documented, and the presence of the administrators may prove to be unsettling. Every individuals future is uncertain, but judging by the performance on the field, Warnock’s side are prepared to give it all for the cause, so when a massive decision goes the other way, frustrations can boil over.

ITV, who couldn’t have selected two better games to cover yesterday, focused on Warnock in their pre match coverage, which proved to be a rather interesting feature. The angle concentrated on reflecting more on the man as a person, rather than the hot headed prowler who appears on the touchline, debating every decision, and giving it all for the cause.

Most people have their minds firmly made up in regards to Warnock, but one issue that can’t be debated is his willingness to succeed, and when you want someone in your trenches to dig deep, Warnock seems to thrive.

Darren Ambrose looked to have sealed it with a stunning free kick, only for Petrov to grab a controversial equaliser

Maybe this is why reports have surfaced, linking him with the non vacant position at Queens Park Rangers. Mick Harford is contracted at Loftus Road until the end of the current campaign, but a contract at QPR is about as secure as stating that the Titanic was unsinkable. Judging by recent results the Super Hoops are going down as rapidly as the doomed voyager, having seemingly hit a number of ice-cubes already.

Why then, would Warnock even be tempted to take over the reigns at the capital city rivals?

Despite the ten point deduction and uncertainty at Selhurst Park, even Crystal Palace seem better equipped to evade the drop than farcical Queens Park Rangers.

Believe it or not, Warnock does have his admirers, and if he sticks to his guns by avoiding the temptation to move across the river, and steers Palace to safety, he may have worshipers. The administrators will be rubbing their hands at the prospect of a replay at Villa Park, but the bread and butter of the league will be the focus for Warnock: “Lets get up there and then get on with the league.”

The priority is to avoid the drop, and following the weekends results Palace are hanging precariously close to the trap door. There is no better time to start concentrating on the league than Wednesday night, with a monumental six pointer against Reading. Talk about six pointers.

Alex Z

Chairmen and owners have come under increasing scrutiny of late, when it comes to the running of football clubs.

Portsmouth seem to be a daily hot news topic, for all the wrong reasons, with the club becoming somewhat of a laughing stock in the footballing world.

However, it is perhaps unfamiliar to see owners being a little too honest when it comes to a clubs finances and general outlook. Indeed, what Portsmouth fans would give for the slightest insight into the ongoing saga at Fratton Park. Maybe they could have done with David Gold and Sullivan buying into their stricken club?

Since the former Birmingham City co-owners have thrown the Irons a financial lifeline, they seem to revel a little in the media spotlight – much to the seeming irritation of manager Gianfranco Zola.

Gold and Sullivan have certainly unravelled the depths of West Ham United’s financial woes, and have had no qualms about revealing the deteriorating state that the club were, and reportedly still are in.

It is a smart move in a certain sense. Hammers fans will be under no illusions that a fresh takeover equals a war chest in the transfer market, something which became abundantly clear in the last window, with the addition of free agent Mido – on a slashed wage of just £1,000 a week. The Egyptian international stated his desire to play in the Premier League as the primary reason for signing.

Sullivan has had a lot to say of late

However, there is being openly and publicly honest, and then there is airing you dirty linen. Zola and his squad were under no false impressions at the magnitude of the task ahead of them for the remainder of the campaign. Staying up was the number one priority following the disastrous start made by the Hammers and Zola needed no further reminder of how vital this was.

Sullivan appears to be the main orchestra behind the media whirlwind at Upton Park, and it is clear to see why certain corners of the playing and management staff may have been a little irritated by recent comments attributed to the former Birmingham City owner: “It’ll be Armageddon if we go down. It’ll be worse than what’s gone on at Newcastle.”

A key ingredient to avoiding the drop is team solidarity, a showing that each individual is going roll their sleeves up and throw everything at the cause to keep the club in the top flight. Aren’t players far more likely to be up for the scrap, if everyone at the establishment are pulling in the same direction. Sullivan clearly finds it hard to justify the current wage structure, hinting that the players may well be overpaid: “I can’t believe the contracts I have inherited. Every position is overpaid, whether in administration or on the playing side. Everyone at the club will be asked to take a salary cut in the summer.”

Who, exactly, is going to benefit from these public outbursts other than the owners themselves, who appear to be simply covering themselves, in the occurrence that the club does indeed suffer relegation?

If West Ham United are condemned to Championship football next season, Sullivan and Gold will have the consolidation of ‘we told you it was going to be bad’, if the situation does deteriorate.

This isn’t the David Sullivan show, much as his recent actions would suggest. There is a football club there, at the heart of the situation, something which the supporters of West Ham care far much more about than the owners. The club was there before the former Birmingham City owners took the financial reigns, and will hopefully be there long after.

Hammers supporters would be far more appreciative if the owners prioritised in keeping the club afloat, without releasing detrimental statements while the playing staff are focusing on just that – playing.

To put the situation into perspective, as financial woes are pretty unlikely at a local 5-a-side soccer league, imagine someone suddenly rocking up at your 6-a-side football team, and mouthing off, stating “he’s not good enough, he shouldn’t be given the ball that much.” Everyone’s probably experienced it, and if you haven’t then you have a pretty tight knit side. For those who have, it doesn’t help, its irritating, and can really upset the applecart.

Hammers need  togetherness if they are to avoid the trap door to the Championship

The comments made were enough for Zola to retaliate and counter, by stating: “I think the article should have been done at another time. It would have been better to say that at another time, and maybe speak to us before a newspaper.”

What could be more disadvantageous to the cause than management and owners have a public slanging match? Fans appreciate honesty, but surely they would be more in favour of supporting a Premier League outfit come what August?

For the sake of West Ham, let’s hope that Sullivan can remain muted in regards to the financial situation of the club, and the worth of the current crop of players - concentrating his efforts on some positive PR which will prove constructive to avoiding demotion.

Alex Z