20 years of the FA Premier League - Part 4

2007/08

PREMIERSHIP title no.10 arrived for Manchester United on the final day of the season and in fitting fashion too.  Ryan Giggs, who had featured and scored in every Premier League campaign, came off the bench to score the second goal in a 2-0 success at Wigan Athletic.  They held off Chelsea’s challenge, as the Blues drew 1-1 at home to Bolton Wanderers.  More agony faced the West Londoners in the Champions League final; beaten by United on penalties in the Moscow showpiece, which led to Avram Grant’s sacking.  Both established frontrunners had sluggish starts to the season.  The Red Devils failed to win any of their first three matches, while Jose Mourinho resigned from Chelsea in mid-September following some dodgy results and more pressure on transfers from the interfering Roman Abramovich.  For a long while, it looked like the youngsters from Arsenal were going to get over the finish line.  Despite losing Thierry Henry in the summer to Barcelona, the Gunners strolled into an advantage as big as seven points at one stage.  However, a horrific double leg fracture for Croatian striker Eduardo seconds into the match with Birmingham City on February 22 totally derailed their challenge.  Arsene Wenger made some poisonous comments about Birmingham centre-back Martin Taylor, who made the accidental challenge on Eduardo and William Gallas furious reaction to a late penalty for the home side didn’t go down well either.  Arsenal fell away in the final two months, and ultimately slipped to third, but only four points behind the champions.  Chelsea kept piling on the pressure, helped by a crucial 2-1 win over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on April 26, but the form of Cristiano Ronaldo was pivotal to Man Utd’s success.  Ronaldo scored a remarkable 42 goals in all competitions, 31 of these in the Premiership.  They kept their noses infront all the way to the final day win at the JJB Stadium.  Liverpool finished fourth, but had a new hero in Fernando Torres to cheer on.  ‘El Nino,’ scored 24 Premiership goals in his debut season.  At the bottom of the league, Derby County became the first side to be relegated at the end of March and ended up with the worst points tally ever.  They won just one game all season; 1-0 at home to Newcastle United in September.  Under Roy Hodgson, Fulham managed the great escape, with four wins in their last five matches.  Danny Murphy headed a dramatic late winner at Portsmouth on the final weekend, with his winner sending both Reading and Birmingham City down to the Championship, despite both relegated clubs winning big on the final day. 

CHAMPIONS: Manchester United, 2^nd: Chelsea 3^rd: Arsenal, 4^th: Liverpool 5^th: Everton, 6^th: Aston Villa, 7^th: Blackburn Rovers, 8^th; Portsmouth, 9^th: Manchester City, 10^th: West Ham United

RELEGATED: Reading, Birmingham City, Derby County

BIGGEST WIN: Middlesbrough 8-1 Manchester City (11 May 2008)

HIGHEST SCORING GAMES: Portsmouth 7-4 Reading (30 September 2007), Tottenham Hotspur 6-4 Reading (29 December 2007), Middlesbrough 8-1 Manchester City (11 May 2008)

SCORERS: Ronaldo (Manchester United) 31, Adebayor (Arsenal) 24, Torres (Liverpool) 24, Santa Cruz (Blackburn) 19, Berbatov (Tottenham) 15, Yakubu (Everton) 15, Benjani (Portsmouth & Manchester City) 15, Keane (Tottenham) 15, Tevez (Manchester United) 14, Carew (Aston Villa) 13, Rooney (Manchester United) 12, Defoe (Tottenham & Portsmouth) 12, Gerrard (Liverpool) 11

2008/09

FOR the second time in Premiership history, Manchester United managed to win three successive league titles.  A 0-0 draw at home to Arsenal on the final Saturday of the season was enough to see them over the finishing line.  They were pushed all the way by a much-improved Liverpool side, who recorded their highest ever Premiership points tally on the way to second spot.  Rafa Benitez would lookback on some silly home draws against the likes of Stoke City, Hull City and Fulham which ultimately cost them the title.  Liverpool lost only two games all season (away at Tottenham and Middlesbrough), and held a five point lead at the turn of the year, but a succession of draws in January gave Manchester United the chance to overhaul the lead the Reds had built-up.  Benitez ranted about United’s record of arguing with referees, which made the battle between the two clubs even more personal.  The deciding results were three games in April.  After losing 1-4 at home to Liverpool at Old Trafford, then 2-0 at Fulham the following week, United needed a stoppage time winner from teenager Federico Macheda to beat a fading Aston Villa side 3-2 at the beginning of the month.  A fortnight later, Liverpool dropped points in a pulsating 4-4 draw with Arsenal, in which Andrei Arshavin scored all four goals for the visitors in a stunning individual performance.  Four days later, inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov and Carlos Tevez, Manchester United stormed back from 2-0 down to beat Tottenham 5-2 at Old Trafford.  Later results didn’t matter and it was a special title for United, as they equalled Liverpool’s record of 18 league championships.  Chelsea struggled for most of the season and sacked the unpopular Luis Felipe Scolari in February, following a dismal draw at home to Hull City.  Guus Hiddink took temporary charge and improved results helped the men from West London finish third and win the FA Cup.  On transfer deadline day, Manchester City got bought by the Abu Dhabi United group, turning them into one of the richest football clubs in the world.  Although they only finished mid-table this campaign, they showed the flexible wealth by persuading temperamental Robinho to join from Real Madrid in a new British transfer record deal; £32.5million.  It was a terrible season on Tyneside, as Sunderland only just survived, while both Newcastle United and Middlesbrough were relegated.  Newcastle’s demise came under four managers, and not even club legend Alan Shearer could save the club from the drop.  Newcastle’s final day relegation meant despite winning only one of their last 17 matches, Hull City survived.  Cue Phil Brown’s horrific singing!  Tottenham sacked Juande Ramos after only managing two points in their first eight games, but Harry Redknapp left Portsmouth to steer the club to eighth, behind Fulham, who managed seventh and their best ever finish in the top flight.    

CHAMPIONS: Manchester United, 2^nd: Liverpool 3^rd: Chelsea, 4^th: Arsenal 5^th: Everton, 6^th: Aston Villa, 7^th: Fulham, 8^th; Tottenham, 9^th: West Ham United, 10^th: Manchester City

RELEGATED: Newcastle United, Middlesbrough, West Brom

BIGGEST WIN: Manchester City 6-0 Portsmouth (21 September 2008)

HIGHEST SCORING GAMES: Arsenal 4-4 Tottenham Hotspur (29 October 2008), Liverpool 4-4 Arsenal (21 April 2009), Manchester United 5-2 Tottenham Hotspur (25 April 2009)

SCORERS: Anelka (Chelsea) 19, Ronaldo (Manchester United) 18, Gerrard (Liverpool) 16, Robinho (Manchester City) 14, Torres (Liverpool) 14, Rooney (Manchester United) 12, Kuyt (Liverpool) 12, Lampard (Chelsea) 12, Agbonlahor (Aston Villa) 12, Bent (Tottenham) 12, Davies (Bolton) 12, Van Persie (Arsenal) 11, Carew (Aston Villa) 11, Fuller (Stoke City) 11, Crouch (Portsmouth) 11

2009/10

THE world of football was rocked by Cristiano Ronaldo’s record transfer fee departure from Manchester United to Real Madrid for £80million before the start of the season.  The game also lost the great Sir Bobby Robson, who passed away after a long, brave fight with cancer in July.  Manchester City continued to flex their muscles in the transfer market, bringing in Gareth Barry, Joleon Lescott, Emmanuel Adebayor and controversially, Carlos Tevez in the summer.  Mark Hughes was sacked in December, after a run of eight successive Premiership draws, a new record.  Roberto Mancini was installed as new boss, but City lost out on a Champions League spot, following a 0-1 loss at home to rivals Tottenham in the final week of the season.  Tottenham finished in the lucrative position ahead of City, Aston Villa and Liverpool, who finished in their worst position in the league since 1999.  Rafa Benitez parted company with the club the following summer.  Once again, Arsenal’s title challenge faded in the closing stages of the season, which included a dramatic collapse away to Wigan Athletic in mid-April.  2-0 up with ten minutes to go at the DW Stadium, the Gunners somehow lost 3-2; a result which kept Wigan in the Premiership.  Burnley, Hull City and Portsmouth were the three clubs who were relegated at the end of the season.  Despite beating Manchester United in their first home Premiership match at Turf Moor, the Clarets lost manager Owen Coyle to Bolton Wanderers in the New Year in acrimonious circumstances.  With it was a loss of form, which saw them, condemned to the drop at the end of April.  It was even worse for Portsmouth, as their financial mess unravelled during the season.  In February, Pompey became the first club in the history of this era to enter administration and hence earn themselves a nine point deduction.  For Avram Grant, it was mission impossible and he went to West Ham United at the end of the season; once the Hammers board decided to crush Gianfranco Zola’s morale and dismiss him.  Another side that impressed in the season were Birmingham City.  Under Alex McLeish, the side went on the longest unbeaten run of the season, which stood at 12 games between late October and the end of January.  The Blues finished a commendable ninth.  At the top of the table, it was Chelsea and Manchester United who once again took the title battle down to the final day of the season.  Carlo Ancelotti’s side were one point clear at the start of play and ultimately didn’t have to worry about matters.  The Blues crushed Wigan 8-0 at Stamford Bridge, with Didier Drogba hitting a hat-trick to secure himself the Golden Boot.  It meant Manchester United had to settle for runners-up spot, despite a 4-0 trouncing of Stoke City at Old Trafford.  For the third time in Premiership history, in Ancelotti’s first season and with over 100 goals too, Chelsea became Premiership champions.  

CHAMPIONS: Chelsea, 2^nd: Manchester United 3^rd: Arsenal, 4^th: Tottenham 5^th: Manchester City, 6^th: Aston Villa, 7^th: Liverpool, 8^th; Everton, 9^th: Birmingham City, 10^th: Blackburn Rovers

RELEGATED: Burnley, Hull City, Portsmouth

BIGGEST WIN: Tottenham Hotspur 9-1 Wigan Athletic (22 November 2009)

HIGHEST SCORING GAMES: Tottenham Hotspur 9-1 Wigan Athletic (22 November 2009), Chelsea 7-2 Sunderland (18 January 2010), Chelsea 8-0 Wigan Athletic (9 May 2010)

SCORERS: Drogba (Chelsea) 29, Rooney (Manchester United) 26, Bent (Sunderland) 24, Tevez (Manchester City) 23, Lampard (Chelsea) 22, Defoe (Tottenham) 18, Torres (Liverpool) 18, Fabregas (Arsenal) 15, Adebayor (Manchester City) 14, Agbonlahor (Aston Villa) 13, Saha (Everton) 13, Malouda (Chelsea) 12, Berbatov (Manchester United) 12, Anelka (Chelsea) 11

2010/11

WAYNE Rooney had a largely troubled season, but his 76^th minute penalty on May 14 earnt Manchester United a 1-1 draw at Blackburn Rovers; good enough for United’s 19^th league title, overtaking Liverpool’s long-standing record.  They did it, despite only winning five games away from home all season, with the lowest points tally to win the league since 1997/98.  However, only newly promoted West Brom managed to take a point from Old Trafford all season in the league.  Despite finishing second, Chelsea sacked Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the season, after a fairly unconvincing campaign.  For long periods, it was Arsenal who became Manchester United’s closest challengers, but once again, they screwed up dramatically in the run-in.  Wenger’s side were knocked out of three cup competitions in 11 days, threw away a 4-0 lead to draw 4-4 at Newcastle in February and only two wins in their last ten league matches saw them drop to fourth and out of the automatic Champions League qualifying spots.  This meant that despite uncertainty about the future of Carlos Tevez, Manchester City stole third place, their best ever Premiership finish.  Tevez ended joint top scorer with Dimitar Berbatov for the season, and to cap things off for Roberto Mancini’s side, they won the FA Cup too.  It was a miserable season for Liverpool, who looked like they were going to be in a relegation battle in mid-season.  Roy Hodgson was sacked after an unhappy six months in the job, Fernando Torres was sold to Chelsea on deadline day for a record £50million and unpopular owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks had to sell the club in October despite numerous attempts to stop the process.  Kenny Dalglish returned to the dugout and guided the Reds to sixth place, including memorable late season wins over both Manchester clubs.  He also signed Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez, but ultimately, the Reds missed out on Europe for the first time since 2000.  Hodgson eventually turned up at West Brom in February and proved that his management skills still were up to scratch, by easing the Baggies comfortably away from a relegation scrap into a solid 11^th place finish.  Respected Sky Sports presenters Richard Keys and Andy Gray were shamed in a sexism row over women in football.  They made off-air sexist comments about West Ham chief executive Karen Brady and female line assistant Sian Massey before the televised Wolves v Liverpool game in January.  Further damming video revelations in the week forthcoming saw Gray sacked and Keys resigning in disgrace.  Also having a disgraceful season were West Ham United, who treated Avram Grant badly all season.  They looked a liability throughout and despite Scott Parker’s heroic efforts, a 3-2 defeat at Wigan Athletic on the penultimate weekend sent the Hammers down.  Grant’s humiliation was complete when he sacked just an hour after the match.  On ‘Survival Sunday,’ five clubs still might end up being relegated.  Blackburn Rovers new Indian owners had made a catastrophic mistake by sacking Sam Allardyce in December, with the club in comfortable mid-table security!  Although they were in the race for the drop, a wonderful first half at Wolves saw them 3-0 up at half-time and secure of any relegation threat.  It put Wolves right in the mire, despite Mick McCarthy’s team winning at Anfield and beating Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United at Molineux during the campaign.  Blackpool had entertained all neutrals throughout the season, with their flowing attack or nothing football.  They did take a surprising 2-1 lead at Manchester United on the last day, but their poor defensive record cost them and a 4-2 loss meant Ian Holloway’s brave Tangerines joined West Ham in relegation misery.  For a long duration of the campaign, Wigan Athletic looked destined for the drop, but put together a strong end to the season which saw them unbeaten in their last five matches.  A Hugo Rodallega header beat Stoke City at the Britannia to keep Roberto Martinez’s side up against the odds.  This left Birmingham City in huge peril.  Although they won the Carling Cup, two wins in their last eleven matches had seen Alex McLeish’s side slip into the relegation battle.  Ultimately, a late Stephen Hunt goal, which pulled Wolves back to a 2-3 defeat against Blackburn, combined with an even later Roman Pavyluchenko strike for Tottenham against Birmingham sent McLeish’s men down and kept Wolves in the league, on the most incredible final day in the league’s history.  However, despite being unconvincing at times, it was Manchester United’s season once again and a fitting way for Paul Scholes and Edwin van der Sar to bow out of the game, as both retired after the Champions League final defeat to Barcelona at Wembley.

CHAMPIONS: Manchester United, 2^nd: Chelsea 3^rd: Manchester City, 4^th: Arsenal 5^th: Tottenham, 6^th: Liverpool, 7^th: Everton, 8^th; Fulham, 9^th: Aston Villa, 10^th: Sunderland

RELEGATED: Birmingham City, Blackpool, West Ham United

BIGGEST WIN: Manchester United 7-1 Blackburn Rovers (27 November 2010)

HIGHEST SCORING GAMES: Manchester United 7-1 Blackburn Rovers (27 November 2010), Newcastle United 4-4 Arsenal (5 February 2011), Everton 5-3 Blackpool (5 February 2011)

SCORERS: Berbatov (Manchester United) 20, Tevez (Manchester City) 20, Van Persie (Arsenal) 18, Bent (Sunderland & Aston Villa) 17, Odemwingie (West Brom) 15, Hernandez (Manchester United) 13, Kuyt (Liverpool) 13, Van der Vaart (Tottenham) 13, Carroll (Newcastle & Liverpool) 13, Malouda (Chelsea) 13, Campbell (Blackpool) 13, Drogba (Chelsea) 12, Dempsey (Fulham) 12

2011/12 (Table & scorers after three matches)

THE 20^th season has begun with the two Manchester clubs looking unstoppable.  Manchester United handed Arsenal their biggest defeat in Premiership history, with an 8-2 mauling at Old Trafford.  Only hours earlier, Manchester City thumped Tottenham 5-1 at White Hart Lane, with Edin Dzeko scoring four goals.  Under Kenny Dalglish, Liverpool spent big to acquire Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing to the club in the summer.  The good times seem to be coming back to Anfield, with two wins in three games, including an impressive success away at Arsenal, with Luis Suarez looking like the natural replacement for Fernando Torres.  Torres’s new club Chelsea have a new gaffer, as Andre Vilas-Boas arrived in the summer.  They have looked unconvincing so far, but have signed youngster Romelu Lukaku and Valencia playmaker Juan Manuel Mata and kept pace with the leading contenders.  Wolves, Stoke City, Aston Villa and Wigan Athletic have all made solid starts too, remaining unbeaten but with Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri gone, plus numerous suspensions and injuries, Arsenal are contemplating life in the bottom four.  However, there is plenty of time to go in what is turning out to be a special season already.

1^st: Manchester United, 2^nd: Manchester City 3^rd: Liverpool, 4^th: Chelsea 5^th: Wolves 6^th: Newcastle United, 7^th: Aston Villa, 8^th; Wigan Athletic, 9^th: Stoke City, 10^th: Bolton Wanderers

IN BOTTOM THREE: West Brom, Blackburn Rovers, Tottenham Hotspur

BIGGEST WIN: Manchester United 8-2 Arsenal (28 August 2011)

SCORERS: Dzeko (Manchester City) 6, Rooney (Manchester United) 5, Aguero (Manchester City) 3, Young (Manchester United) 3, Klasnic (Bolton) 3, Best (Newcastle) 2, Long (West Brom) 2, Suarez (Liverpool) 2, Silva (Manchester City) 2

Premiership goalkeeper bloopers

THE 20th Premiership season begins next weekend and to celebrate, I thought it should be time to embarrass some Premiership goalkeepers with a selection of the biggest blunders in the two decades of football so far.  I'd advise all keepers to run away and hide, because it's time to open the vault and embrace the madness!

Peter Enckleman - Birmingham City v Aston Villa (September 2002)

This still makes me giggle everytime I see it.  Peter Enckleman miscontrolled a simple throw-in backpass from Olof Mellberg and let the ball slip underneath his feet, before trickling into the net.  What was worse; it was the first Second City derby in 16 years and ensured Birmingham beat Aston Villa 3-0.  The Blues did the double and finished above Villa in their first season in the Premiership and got a serious laugh at poor Peter's expense.

Tim Flowers - Blackburn Rovers v Liverpool (February 1996)

It was a weak shot and one of the freakiest goals ever, certainly in Stan Collymore's colourful career.  His 11th minute shot hit a divot in the Ewood Park ground, which Blackburn keeper Tim Flowers had created to help with his postioning.  Collymore's shot hit the divot and bounced over Flowers head and went in.  Liverpool won the game 3-2 and this Flowers moment summed up Blackburn's defence of the title; forgettable!

Shay Given - Coventry City v Newcastle United (November 1997)

Shay Given is normally one of the most reliable Premiership goalkeepers around, but he failed to check his directions in this gaffe.  He claimed the ball from a poor cross and rolled it out, but didn't realise Dion Dublin had wondered off the pitch.  Dublin cheekily ran back onto the field and kicked the ball in the net.  Referee Paul Durkin allowed the goal to stand and it has gone down as one of the strangest in Premiership history.

Massimo Taibi - Manchester United v Southampton (September 1999)

One of the softest goals in Matt Le Tissier's career, which still ranks amongst one of the biggest gaffes in history.  At 2-1, Southampton looked like they might cave in, but somehow, Le Tissier's dribbler of a shot squirmed underneath the grasp of Massimo Taibi.  It was a horrendous error and Taibi only played once more for Manchester United, conceding five at Stamford Bridge.  Oh dear!

Fabian Barthez - Arsenal v Manchester United (November 2001)

Another Manchester United goalkeeper to hang their head in shame was Fabian Barthez.  The charismatic Frenchman had more bad days than good and this was a prime example.  A poor clearance and losing the ball from underneath his body gave Thierry Henry, his international team-mate two simple goals.  Both blunders came in the last five minutes, ensuring United lost 3-1 at Highbury and Sir Alex looks unimpressed.

Carlo Cudicini - Manchester United v Chelsea (May 2004)

Carlo Cudicini had a couple of clangers in the 2003/04 season.  One at Highbury and another at Old Trafford.  With this one, he simply misjudged a woeful cross and Ruud Van Nistlerooy was never going to miss from close range.  Although Chelsea held on for a 1-1 draw to finish in the runners-up spot, Cudicini lost his regular spot in the Chelsea side to Petr Cech when the Jose Mourinho era began in the summer of 2004.

Jerzy Dudek - Liverpool v Manchester United (December 2002)

Jerzy Dudek became a Liverpool hero in Istanbul with his penalty heroics, which was eventual redemption for this gaffe against Manchester United.  Jamie Carragher's simple header back to the Polish goalkeeper should have be caught with his eyes closed.  He lost it and Diego Forlan was presented with an early Christmas gift.  United won 2-1 at Anfield and Dudek lost his place in the Reds side for the best part of two months.

Hereulho Gomes - Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur (November 2008)

Hereulho Gomes regular appointment with the Premiership DVD bloopers list already is enough for a TV series!  This was his worst moment of his catastrophic career at White Hart Lane so far, letting a simple Clint Dempsey in at his near post.  Not the first time Dempsey has benefited from dismal goalkeeping, and it won't be the last Gomes mistake either, I'm sure of that!  For the record, Fulham won this match 2-1.

Ian Walker - Leicester City v Bolton Wanderers (February 2004)

There have been a fair share of England goalkeepers screwing up in the past and Ian Walker had his moment of madness in this match.  Youri Djorkaeff's free-kick was met by a rather tame effort from Bolton's Kevin Davies.  Walker had the ball, then somehow lost it and the ball crept over the line.  Bolton couldn't believe their luck, earnt a fortunate point and Leicester were relegated at the end of the season.  On this evidence, its hard not to see why!

Edwin van der Sar - Fulham v Arsenal (May 2004)

Edwin van der Sar had erratic days at Fulham and none more so than against Arsenal in 2003/2004.  In November, his sensational display kept 'The Untouchables' out.  This time, he tried to be too clever and dribble the ball around Jose Antonio Reyes.  Reyes nicked it off him and the cocky Dutchman was punished.  Arsenal won 1-0 and got one game closer to that historic landmark with an extra bit of help!

Premiership fixtures released for 2011/12

FOOTBALL fans across the country are beginning to plan ahead for the new domestic season, after the fixture lists in England and Scotland were published at 9am this morning.

     The opening weekend of the 20th Premiership season sees defending champions Manchester United begin their latest title defence with a trip to the Hawthorns to play West Brom.  Manchester rivals City have a home encounter with playoff winners and Premiership deubtants Swansea City.  Both QPR and Norwich City will be happy with their opening encounters.  QPR, in the top flight for the first time since 1996 will entertain Bolton Wanderers at Loftus Road, whilst Norwich have an away trip to Wigan Athletic on their return to playing the big boys.  Jordan Henderson will meet his old club, as Sunderland get to travel to Anfield to face Liverpool.  Last season's runners-up Chelsea begin life after Carlo Ancelotti with a tricky assignment at Stoke City, who are formidable at home.  In two of the more attractive fixtures, Newcastle United come up against Arsenal at St. James Park, in a rerun of February's dramatic 4-4 draw, whilst Tottenham face a juicy match at White Hart Lane against Everton.  To complete the opening lineup on Saturday August 13, Blackburn meet Wolves at Ewood Park and two new managers get to test their creditability against one another at Craven Cottage as Martin Jol's Fulham come face-to-face with Alex McLeish's Aston Villa.

     The first massive fixture of the season is Arsenal v Liverpool on August 20, with Manchester United meeting Tottenham on the same weekend.  A week later, United v Arsenal at Old Trafford stands out.  On the final day of the season, Chelsea host Blackburn, Manchester United head to Sunderland and Swansea finish off at home to Liverpool.  The campaign finishes on Sunday May 13, one week earlier than last season to allow England more time to prepare for the 2012 European Championships in Poland/Ukraine, should Fabio Capello's side qualify of course.

     See below for the Premiership opening day fixtures and dates of some of the crunch encounters in the first half of the season.
NOTE: Some dates will change once ESPN and Sky Sports confirm the first set of live television fixtures, in around a fortnight's time.


2011/12 BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURES - OPENING DAY (Saturday 13 August)
Blackburn Rovers v Wolves
Fulham v Aston Villa
Liverpool v Sunderland
Manchester City v Swansea City
Newcastle United v Arsenal
QPR v Bolton Wanderers
Stoke City v Chelsea
Tottenham Hotspur v Everton
West Brom v Manchester United
Wigan Athletic v Norwich City

KEY FIXTURE DATES (August - December)
August 20: Arsenal v Liverpool
August 20: Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
August 20: Sunderland v Newcastle United
August 27: Aston Villa v Wolves
August 27: Manchester United v Arsenal
August 27: Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester City

September 17: Manchester United v Chelsea
September 17: Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool
September 24: Manchester City v Everton

October 1: Everton v Liverpool
October 1: Fulham v QPR
October 1: Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal
October 15: Liverpool v Manchester United
October 15: West Brom v Wolves
October 22: Manchester United v Manchester City
October 22: Aston Villa v West Brom
October 22: QPR v Chelsea
October 29: Chelsea v Arsenal

November 19: Chelsea v Liverpool
November 26: Liverpool v Manchester City

December 10: Chelsea v Manchester City
December 17: Manchester City v Arsenal
December 20: Tottenham Hotspur v Chelsea
BOXING DAY: Chelsea v Fulham
December 31: Liverpool v Newcastle United

Barclays Premiership season review (Part 2) Club-by-club

West Brom

ROY Hodgson was appointed manager of West Brom in February.  Despite losing 13 out of 16 games between November 1 and February 6, Roberto di Matteo’s dismissal was a gamble by the Albion board.  However, it turned into a shrewd move.  Di Matteo’s inexperience at the top level cost him, whilst the experience Hodgson has at the top level steered West Brom clear of trouble.  He had a point to prove after the Liverpool experience, but he should never have been doubted.  Hodgson was able to provide a perfect balance between attack and defence.  West Brom produced some sterling results during the campaign.  They won at the Emirates, drew at Old Trafford, thrashed Everton 4-1 at Goodison in November and beat Liverpool at home.  Lows included a 6-0 thumping by a rampant Chelsea on the opening weekend and a 3-1 loss at bitter rivals Wolves in May, which ultimately helped keep Wolves in the Premiership.  For once, Albion provided the consistency required staying at the top level, and Roy Hodgson has given them a solid platform for which he can build on next season.

HIGHS: A flying start to the season under Roberto di Matteo and comfortable survival under the guidance of Roy Hodgson

LOWS: A 6-0 thumping at Chelsea on the opening day of the season and a 3-1 reverse at bitter rivals Wolves in May

Newcastle United      

NEWCASTLE United have always had a tendency to provide drama in any previous Premiership campaign, but by their standards, it was a quiet and solid season.  However, they did sack Chris Hughton controversially in December.  Hughton was not being offered a new contract and was ditched, despite lying a comfortable 12^th in the table at the time.  He had steered the club to a 6-0 win over Aston Villa, a memorable 5-1 hammering of rivals Sunderland and a shock victory at the Emirates.  Mike Ashley was criticised for bringing in Alan Pardew, who has struggled at the top level in the past, with both Charlton Athletic and West Ham United.  However, Pardew defined the critics with a debut victory over Liverpool, and Newcastle never looked in any relegation trouble, finishing a comfortable midtable in the league.  Their fans will be disappointed though by being pipped in the league by Sunderland.  Under Pardew, they came from 4-0 down at home to Arsenal and produce the greatest comeback in Premiership history, to earn a 4-4 draw.  Chiock Tiote’s 90^th minute screamer saw the roof almost come off St. James Park. 

Andy Carroll was sold to Liverpool for £35million, so there is money to spend next season and the Magpies supporters will demand that money to be spent wisely and progress to continue.

HIGHS: Coming from 4-0 down to rescue a 4-4 draw with Arsenal and the 5-1 home hammering of Sunderland

LOWS: Sacking Chris Hughton, selling Andy Carroll and being beaten in the final league table by Sunderland

Stoke City                        

IF STOKE fans had been offered a place in the FA Cup final and comfortably in midtable in the Premiership at the start of the season; they will have bitten your hands off!  However, 13^th place is a poor reflection on a side that deserved a top-half finish, certainly more than Aston Villa or Sunderland.  Tony Pulis side never looked in relegation danger, although it took till the middle of April to totally banish those fears.  They did lose their first three games of the season, but then a 2-1 late win against Villa in September was the platform for another amazing campaign.  Robert Huth became a major goalscoring threat, Jonathan Walters was the best player to be signed outside of the top flight and Jermaine Pennant looks revitalised and finally at home, after a career that looked like it was stalling into reverse gear.  Stoke don’t have any world class players, but are a brilliant team unit, who play to their strengths.  That can be seen as an ugly way of playing football, but it is effective and Pulis often has a Plan B of the attractive route, should Plan A not work.  Beating Liverpool and Arsenal at home were the result highs, whilst heavy losses against West Ham and Manchester City were the lows of the campaign.  If Stoke want to break out of the midfield group in the table, they must improve their away form.  Three wins this season on the road (Newcastle, West Brom and Blackburn) is not good enough, and spoils their season.  At the Britannia, only Manchester United, Tottenham and Blackpool won and if anything, it is one of the hardest grounds around to get a positive result for visiting sides.  Steady progress for a likeable club. 

HIGHS: A glorious run to the FA Cup final, reviving Jermaine Pennant's career and impressive home wins over Arsenal and Liverpool

LOWS: General inconsistency, especially on the road, which cost them a better finish

Bolton Wanderers

OWEN Coyle has got Bolton playing his brand of football and now, the Reebok Stadium doesn’t always akin itself to a wrestling match.  Gone are the physical abuse Bolton could give teams, and although still a strength, Coyle has got his style embedded into the squad and it worked for most of the season.  Consequently, 14^th place doesn’t merit their efforts this season, which saw Bolton closer to Europe than a predicted relegation dogfight for the majority of the campaign.  In fact, before the FA Cup semi-final, Bolton looked comfortable in 8^th, so this highlights their loss in confidence and form after the shameful 5-0 battering at the hands of Stoke City at Wembley.  Finally, Johan Elmander looked like a potential goal threat, after a load of underachievement under the previous regime.  However, he has moved onto Galatasaray in the close season.  Coyle’s best signing was the loan acquisition of Daniel Sturridge on deadline day from Chelsea.  Frozen out at Stamford Bridge, Sturridge loved first-team football in Lancashire and scored goals on a regular basis.  I would imagine Bolton will try to do another loan deal for next season, after his impressive form in the second half of the season.  This was an encouraging season for Bolton and despite the final league position, its upwards and onwards for Owen Coyle and the Trotters.

HIGHS: The loan signing of Daniel Sturridge, beating Tottenham 4-2 in November and a more attractive style of football

LOWS: The FA Cup semi-final humiliation at the hands of Stoke, which saw their season never recover afterwards

Blackburn Rovers       

NEW owners for Blackburn, but they already aren’t greatly popular with the fans and a fatal decision nearly ended their decade stay in the Premiership.  The club were sitting a comfortable 11^th when they travelled to Bolton on December 12.  A last-minute Stuart Holden strike gave Bolton a 2-1 triumph and 24 hours later, the Indian new boys sacked Sam Allardyce.  It was a baffling and strange decision, and it angered a lot of people within the game.  The relatively unknown Steve Kean was given the chance to manage the club and initially, things started well.  A league double over West Brom and a handsome 3-1 home success over Liverpool gave Rovers fans a glimmer of new hope.  However, a diabolical run of form after beating West Brom 2-0 on January 23 saw the Lancashire side drop from 7^th to 16^th.  Luckily, a 1-0 win over Bolton at home in late April steadied a very rocky boat.  Nevertheless, it took until the last day for Blackburn’s safety to be confirmed.  They did this with an impressive first half display at Molineux, which had them 3-0 up at half-time, eventually winning 3-2.  This came on the back of a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Manchester United, on the day United clinched their record-breaking championship.  The form of Paul Robinson and the emergence of Junior Hoillett were the positive points of a difficult campaign for Blackburn.  Having sold Phil Jones to Manchester United for £17million, there is money in the bank, so the supporters will be expecting it to be spent wisely or the club will disintegrate in the near future. 

As for Steve Kean, he has a point to prove at the start of next season; to show he really is the right man for the Ewood Park hotseat.

HIGHS: The emergence of Junior Hoillett, Paul Robinson's consistency and a stunning first half display at Molineux on the last day of the seasonLOWS: Sacking Sam Allardyce, the worst decision of the entire season! 

WolvesA STUNNING 87^th minute strike from Stephen Hunt was enough for Wolves to survive in the Premiership by the skin of their teeth.  They still lost 3-2 at Blackburn on the last day, but scored more goals than Birmingham to keep themselves afloat.  It was a character building season for Mick McCarthy, who steered the club to some of its most memorable results in its history, yet witness some shambolic performances elsewhere, particularly on the road (3-0 at Stoke, 4-1 at Newcastle, 3-0 at Blackburn).  They won at Anfield against Liverpool in December and at Molineux, beat the top three fair and square; Manchester City (2-1 in October), Chelsea (1-0 in January) and Manchester United (2-1 in February), as well as a thrilling 3-3 draw with Tottenham in March.  However, their form against the clubs around them was disastrous.  They picked up 0 points against Bolton, Blackburn and Wigan, only 1 against West Ham and 3 collected in the meetings with Blackpool.  Amongst the great were the ugly moments.  Karl Henry’s x-rated challenge on Bobby Zamora, which broke Zamora’s ankle, received widespread criticism in a match with Fulham, as did a similar challenge which saw the quickest dismissal of the season; inside ten minutes in a 2-0 loss at Wigan in October.  Henry can’t play football; it’s as simple as that.  Steven Fletcher was a good buy and scored some crucial goals in the run-in, particularly his memorable double in the 3-1 result against West Brom.  On the final day, Wolves were lucky, but for the results they collected this season against the big boys, they thoroughly deserved their place in the top flight next season.

HIGHS: Beating Liverpool at Anfield and deserved home successes against the top three (Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City

LOWS: Poor results against the teams around them and Karl Henry's inability to time a tackle correctly!

Wigan Athletic            

TWO nil down against West Ham in the penultimate game of the season, and it looked like the game was up for Roberto Martinez and Wigan Athletic.  However, they produced a stunning comeback, led by the inspirational Charles N’Zogbia.  The last-minute winner from the Frenchman sent the DW Stadium into raptures and gave the club a fighting chance on the final day of the season.  They followed those heroics with a professional display at Stoke and Hugo Rodallega’s priceless 77^th minute header, which won the game and kept the smallest club in the Premiership for a fanbase, up for a seventh successive season.  Martinez has to be praised for never losing his spirit, especially as they were written on (including me) on several occasions this season.  He wants to play attractive football, which sometimes asks for trouble, especially against the top elite.  However, Wigan had the ability to grind out some priceless results, win ugly or win by playing brilliant and ultimately, that’s why they stayed up and Blackpool didn’t.  After a 0-4 demolition at home against Blackpool on the opening weekend, followed by Chelsea’s 6-0 annihilation the following week, the writing looked on the wall for Wigan.  A week later, Rodallega stole a shock 1-0 win at Tottenham, which in a way, summed up their season – being able to produce some unexpected results.  Two draws against Liverpool and an epic 5-3 triumph over Blackburn in February back this opinion up.  Martinez will find it tough to hold on to his star assets this summer, notably Rodallega, N’Zogbia and Maynor Figueroa.  However, he defied the odds this time around, and don’t be surprised to find Wigan doing it again same time next season.

HIGHS: A sensational final day victory at Stoke which saw the club beat the drop against the odds

LOWS: Kamikaze defending which led to some batterings, particularly at the hands of Blackpool and Chelsea

Birmingham City

ALEX McLeish has resigned and looks set to be appointed as the new boss of Midlands rivals Aston Villa.  To be honest, you can’t blame him.  McLeish clearly has had several disagreements with the board at St. Andrews, so the way he has left the club can’t be seen as surprising, if definitely acrimonious.  Birmingham got a case of Second Season Syndrome, and the club were relegated by a 2-1 loss at Tottenham on the last day of the season.  All this came after their greatest day at Wembley at the end of February.  Obafemi Martins 89^th minute winner snatched the Carling Cup final against the overwhelming favourites, Arsenal.  Afterwards, poor form and a shocking injury list took its toll on the Blues, who only won two of their last 11 Premiership games.  Ultimately, it is the players who need to take the blame.  Once Scott Dann got injured in January, Birmingham’s previously steady backline looked shaky for the reminder of the campaign.  In midfield, Sebastian Larsson had a poor season, while Jean Beausejour failed to shine on his impressive World Cup form he showed with Chile.  Nikola Zigic might have scored in the Carling Cup final, but was a real letdown and Birmingham simply didn’t score enough goals.  My advice to teams for next season, DON’T WIN THE CARLING CUP!  Birmingham certainly have the quality to bounce straight back up and can look forward to playing in the UEFA Europa League this season.  However, I bet they’d swap it all for another season in the Premiership.  It was a sorry tale of dismay in the Blue half of the Midlands.

HIGHS: Winning the Carling Cup final

LOWS: Winning the Carling Cup final

Blackpool 

BLACKPOOL may have dropped straight back into the Championship, but they won many fans throughout their epic journey this season and the club will be missed in the Premiership next season.  Ian Holloway offered colour, charisma and panache on the touchline, and his post and pre-match press conferences were always a joy to listen to.  Holloway has a strong opinion on almost any topic in the game and is the perfect interviewee for any budding sports journalist out there.  Whether he will stay at Blackpool remains to be seen; I hope he does.  Like Roberto Martinez, Holloway opted to play the attractive football route and refused to back down after a negative display which saw them overwhelmed 4-0 at Chelsea in September.  However, it ultimately was to be their downfall.  Blackpool could only win matches playing attractively, not ugly and having the worst defensive record in the Premiership didn’t help.  The fans will never forget a league double over Liverpool, an impressive 3-1 win over Tottenham and stunning away victories at Wigan, Newcastle and Sunderland.  However, their inability to hold onto leading positions, throwing away 2-0 leads against Manchester United, Bolton and Blackburn during the campaign ultimately cost them.  Charlie Adam was the Tangerines star player and I’d expect him to be in the Premiership next season, with Liverpool and Tottenham favourites for his signature.  Although it ended with the crushing low of relegation, Blackpool fans shouldn’t be too downhearted.  It was a journey their supporters will never forget.

HIGHS: Ian Holloway, Charlie Adam, more Ian Holloway, their supporters, beating Liverpool (TWICE!) and Ian Holloway

LOWS: The worst defensive record in the Premiership, which turned out to be very costly.

West Ham United

UPTON Park looked more like a pantomime performance at the London Palladium this season.  David Sullivan, David Gold and Karen Brady have come in to run the club, and have turned it into the new ‘Newcastle,’ i.e.; the laughing stock of English football.  After crushing Gianfranco Zola’s morale, they’ve now ruined Avram Grant’s reputation and treated him very unprofessionally.  Grant was sacked after relegation was confirmed, and although he kept his dignity throughout a nightmare experience, I bet he has been scarred forever by the haunting campaign at Upton Park.  After a 3-0 loss at home to Arsenal in January, Grant threw his claret scarf into the crowd, which suggested he had been fired.  However, Martin O’Neill turned his back on the job and Avram was given a stay of execution.  Not even a run to the Carling Cup semi-finals, FA Cup quarter-finals, the return from injury for Thomas Hitzlsperger and the incredible form of Scott Parker could prevent the inevitable happening for the Hammers.  They were bottom at Christmas and bottom at the end of the season.  Brady got into a slanging match over the sexism Sky Sports row in January, which didn’t help matters within harmony in the board.  The loan signings of Robbie Keane and Wayne Bridge turned into absolutely disastrous deals.  Sam Allardyce has taken over the reins, and he will do well to keep his patience with an impatient board behind him.  It is a poisoned chalice at Upton Park.  Of course, I feel sorry for the fans, but ultimately, West Ham got what they deserved this season and they won’t be missed in the top flight next season.

HIGHS: None

LOWS: Everything

Barclays Premiership season review (Part 1) Club-by-club

NEARLY a month now since the Premiership season finished.  Here is my club-by club review in order of their finishing positions.

Manchester United                                                                                                                                                                                            

MANCHESTER United may have won another Premiership title and it is their 19^th league championship, overtaking Liverpool at last.  However, they came up short in the Champions League final by some distance and Sir Alex Ferguson will know that the squad must improve over the summer to become a European force again.  At home, Old Trafford was a fortress, with only West Brom (2-2) in October stealing a point.  Away from home was a different matter, with just five wins, the lowest of any side on their way to winning the title.  Luckily, there were enough turning points which showed the class of champions.  Fightbacks against Aston Villa in November, Blackpool in January and West Ham in April were the foreground for the title success, with a New Years Day away win at West Brom when they were comprehensively outplayed being another deciding factor.  Edwin van der Sar and Paul Scholes have ended their glittering careers, whilst who knows where Ryan Giggs head will be at next season, after all the recent tabloid allegations.  Javier Hernandez was definitely the signing of the season and Wayne Rooney was beginning to look like his old self by the season’s end, after an indifferent beginning, which nearly led to his departure.  Marked improvements are needed, but no-one wins the title by accident and at the end of day, Manchester United looked head and shoulders above everyone else this season.

HIGHS: Comeback victories from seemingly definite losing positions against Blackpool in January and West Ham in April.

LOWS: Wayne Rooney's transfer saga, dodgy away form and having to cope with the retirements of Scholes and Van der Sar.

Chelsea                                                                                                                                                                                                              

CARLO Ancelotti lost his job after a trophy less season at Stamford Bridge.  How have things changed after the Double Winning season last time around.  Unfortunately, Chelsea have an ageing squad, which needs significant rebuilding if they want to stay in the position of Manchester United’s closest pursuers.  They were frighteningly good early in the season, but the loss of Frank Lampard to injury hit them hard, and it turned into a very bleak winter, which saw them tumble from dominant pacesetters to distant challengers.  A mighty run-in gave them an unlikely sniff, but a shambolic first half display in the title decider at Old Trafford summed up their season and had Ancelotti heading for his P45.  Didier Drogba didn’t look himself this season, Florent Malouda seems to have lost a yard of his pace and the signing of Fernando Torres in January for 50million will go down as the most expensive flop in transfer history so far.  One goal only for ‘El Nino;’ Liverpool will feel like they’d won the lottery.  Lampard was a thorn when he returned from injury, and Branislav Ivanovic had a very consistent campaign too.  Despite a bumbling game at Old Trafford, David Luiz did look fairly solid and is a good acquisition.  However, the new boss (probably Guus Hiddink) has a lot of work to do in West London and a clearout is necessary, without a doubt.

HIGHS: Beating Manchester United 2-1 in March and deadly early season form with 6-0 onslaughts of Wigan and West Brom.

LOWS: Being beaten twice by Liverpool, failing to turn up in the first half at Old Trafford and the signing of Fernando Torres.

Manchester City                                                                                                                                                                                         

AN FA Cup final victory and guaranteed Champions League football meant it was an excellent season and one to remember for Manchester City.  They are only going to get stronger, so the rest of the opposition better beware.  Highlights this season in results include home victories over Chelsea and Liverpool and impressive demolitions of Aston Villa and West Brom.  The scoring form and consistency of Yaya Toure also has to go down as a major positive.  However, Carlos Tevez seems really unsettled at Eastlands and if he departs, it will be a body blow for City.  Roberto Mancini made some tactical errors this season, notably leaving David Silva and Nigel de Jong out, then crumbling 3-0 at Anfield in April, and he must also have some nightmares about Everton.  He has come up against David Moyes four times, and lost on every single occasion.  Ultimately, the 2-1 loss before Christmas at home was probably the night the fans realised it wasn’t going to be a championship winning season.  Some signings haven’t gelled either.  James Milner has struggled to live up to his price tag, whilst Mario Balotelli has a major attitude problem which needs urgent attention in the summer.  However, it was a campaign of positives more than negatives and I’d expect a major assault at the Premiership title from Mancini’s men next season.

HIGHS: Champions League football guaranteed, Yaya Toure's unlikely scoring form and Emmanuel Adebayor's departure.

LOWS: Carlos Tevez unsettled, negative tactics against the top teams and Roberto Mancini's inability to beat Everton!

Arsenal                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

WELL, it’s the same old story for Arsenal; quality football, the best in the league by a country mile, but no silverware to show for their efforts.  It is now six long years since Gunners fans saw a trophy head back to North London and time is starting to run out for Arsene Wenger.  He has given the young guns enough time, and it is now time to bring in some experienced heads.  Robin Van Persie had an incredible run of goalscoring form in the second half of the season, which might mean now an ultimate replacement for Thierry Henry has finally been found.  Marouane Chamakh had to make do with a place on the bench and must improve next season if he is to fulfil his tag of goal-getter, which he was in France.  The exciting emergence of Jack Wiltshire leaves hope and encouragement for the future, whilst Samir Nasri finally showed his full potential.  However, Arsenal still have big weaknesses.  The signings of Laurent Koscieny and Sebastian Squillaci were disastrous and the goalkeeping area is still a problem.  Manuel Almunia is hopeless; Lukasz Fabianski is far too injury-prone and Szcenzy needs more time to develop before being thrown into the limelight.  Arsenal also has a tendency to throw away advantages.  Silly home losses against Newcastle and West Brom, combined with a 2-0 home lead chucked away in the North London derby and the 4-goal lead squandered at St. James Park in February still show up something that has plagued the Gunners for a while now.  Wenger must deliver a trophy under new ownership next season, or face the consequences of the unthinkable, the sack!

HIGHS: More quality football, the goalscoring form of Robin van Persie and Jack Wilshire's emergence.

LOWS: Failing to win a trophy, AGAIN!

Tottenham Hotspur                                                                                                                                                                                          

TOTTENHAM had a season full of highs, but ultimately, 5^th place will be seen as a disappointment to their fans.  However, this does highlight the sensational progress they have made under Harry Redknapp.  They had a fantastic run to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, but it will only be UEFA Europa League football next campaign.  The Premiership highlight of the season was undoubtedly coming from 2-0 down to beat Arsenal 3-2 at the Emirates in November.  They looked dead and buried at half-time, but came back with one of the greatest Premiership comebacks of all time.  There was an impressive double over Liverpool too for the first time in Premiership history.  However, their form at the end of the season nearly cost them another European adventure.  Dropped points at Wigan and home draws with West Brom and Sunderland ultimately cost them a shot at the top four.  Redknapp has already strengthened for next season, with the capture of dependable Brad Friedel on a free transfer from Aston Villa.  Does this mean the end for the bumbling Hereulho Gomes?  Once again, Gomes produced some stunning performances, together with shots that a three-year old could save in his back garden!  If Gomes was seriously error-prone, Gareth Bale was sensational and deserved to win PFA Player of the Year.  If the Welshman can continue his development next season, we could be looking at Wales’s next biggest talent – now Ryan Giggs has shown his true colours! 

HIGHS: A fantastic Champions League adventure, beating Arsenal at the Emirates and Gareth Bale's sensational form.

LOWS: Hereulho Gomes and failing to reach the top four, due to a lacklustre finish to the campaign.

Liverpool                                                                                                                                                                                                           

AS SOON as the Liverpool fans found out Kenny Dalglish had been turned down for the Liverpool job last summer, Roy Hodgson was a dead man walking.  His transfer business last summer was terrible and ultimately, poor results cost him his job in January.  There is no doubting Hodgson is a quality manager; he was just the wrong man at the wrong time for Liverpool.  There were very painful home defeats in the league to Wolves and Blackpool and pitiful away displays at Manchester City, Stoke and Blackburn.  In fact, Liverpool looked to be in a relegation battle at the turn of the year, so sixth place is some achievement at the end of a tricky campaign.  Kenny Dalglish eventually returned to manage his beloved club, and he guided Liverpool to stunning victories away at Chelsea and at home to both Manchester United and Manchester City.  Dalglish also sold Fernando Torres to Chelsea and not even El Nino’s departure could dampen the spirits.  Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll came in and both look world class already.  If Carroll can stay injury-free, it could be a very fruitful partnership.  Liverpool’s academy looks like blossoming too, with Jay Spearing, Martin Kelly and Jack Robinson all showing signs of a promising future.  Dirk Kuyt had his best season yet and Raul Meireles looks like somewhere near his 2010 World Cup pedigree, which makes up for the dire signings of Christian Poulsen, Joe Cole and Paul Konchesky.  Ultimately, Liverpool missed out on European football and won’t be playing in a continental competition for the first time since 1999.  However, it might be a plus for Dalglish, as he aims to build a new dynasty of young and emerging talent.  A dark campaign in general for Liverpool, which ended with lots of light at the end of the tunnel.

HIGHS: The return of King Kenny, stunning victories over Chelsea and Manchester United and the signing of Luis Suarez.

LOWS: Roy Hodgson's reign in charge at Anfield and being beaten at homes by Blackpool and Wolves.

Everton                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

SEVENTH place was an improvement on last season for Everton, but they will feel it was a season of missed opportunities.  Like Liverpool, the Toffees were embroiled in the relegation scrap for the majority of the season, with the nadir being a 2-0 loss at Bolton on February 13.  That left David Moyes side only two points above the danger zone.  After that, Manchester United and West Brom were the only clubs to beat Everton, with a run of form that would have seen the Blue half of Merseyside challenge for a top four position.  Yet again, there was an impressive double over Manchester City, with their 2-1 win before Christmas at Eastlands one of the performances of the whole season.  Goodison Park was as tough as ever, with Liverpool, Tottenham and Chelsea all being beaten.  In fact, four points off Liverpool means local pride belongs to Everton this season.  However, Moyes will know that the lack of goals is hurting his side.  Once Tim Cahill disappeared to the Asian Cup in January, there was no regular source for goals.  Jermaine Beckford scored ten in his debut season in the top flight, which was a solid tally, but there needs to be more back-up.  Louis Saha misfired all campaign, and Yakubu became so bad, he was loaned out to Leicester City for the second half of the season.  With no major finance to strengthen the squad again, it could be the same story next season and Moyes will do well to hold onto the likes of Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines and Mikel Arteta.  However, Maroualine Fellani’s loss of confidence and form will be a worry.  The Belgian has immense talent, but seems stagnated at Goodison Park and maybe a move would be best for both parties.  If Everton make a better start next term, I’d expect them to be right in the European shake-up at the end of the campaign.

HIGHS: Another league double over Manchester City and impressive wins at home to Liverpool, Tottenham and Chelsea.

LOWS: The lack of goals, no finances to strengthen and Maroualine Fellani's loss of confidence.

Fulham                                                                                                                                                                                                               

THE sudden departure of Mark Hughes after just one season at Craven Cottage spoilt Fulham’s end of season form, which bought their second ever highest league finish, and qualification for the UEFA Europa League via the Fair Play route.  Hughes insists he wants a bigger challenge, but he was developing something good in West London, so his resignation was a real surprise.  However, Mohammed Al-Fayed has moved quickly and by appointing ex-Tottenham and Ajax boss Martin Jol, he has definitely found a very shrewd replacement.  Fulham’s season looked to be in dire straits once Bobby Zamora broke his ankle in their 2-1 win over Wolves in September.  Goals and confidence became a real problems, and after a shock 3-1 loss at home to West Ham on Boxing Day, the Cottagers were in the bottom three.  Zamora’s return to fitness, combined with the consistency of Brede Hangeland, Danny Murphy and Clint Dempsey allowed for a very strong second half of the season.  It was also nice to see Andy Johnson return to fitness and find the net again occasionally, even though Moussa Dembele was a real disappointment.  Jol will have finances to spend and as long as they can hold onto their key players, Fulham certainly have the capability to break into the top seven on a regular basis. 

HIGHS: A strong second half of the season and Brede Hangeland's consistency.

LOWS: Mark Hughes's sudden departure and Bobby Zamora's broken ankle, which ruined the Cottagers season.

Aston Villa                                                                                                                                                                                                         

THERE can be no doubt that this was a messy season for Aston Villa and the summer doesn’t seem to have improved things.  Once Martin O’Neill walked out on Randy Lerner days before the start of the season, Villa were destined for a scrappy campaign and that’s what happened.  In fact, they flirted with relegation more often than not, and only a strong end to the season under Gary McAllister got them into the top half.  Kevin McDonald stepped into the breach after O’Neill left, but a 6-0 slaughtering at Newcastle finished his hopes of getting the job on a permanent basis.  To the fans surprise and dismay, Gerard Houillier returned to Premiership management and despite an opening win under the new regime at Wolves in September, things never improved afterwards.  Gabby Agbonlahor scored one goal all season, Emile Heskey looked as worse as ever and John Carew couldn’t hit a barndoor if his life depended on it, so he was farmed out to Stoke on loan.  The only plus of Houiller’s appointment was the signing of Darren Bent from Sunderland in January.  Yet again, Bent found the net on his debut in the win over Manchester City at Villa Park and couldn’t stop scoring in a Villa jersey.  Eventually, a heart scare forced Houillier out of the role and ultimately, out of the job.  Lerner’s pursuit of a new boss has been poor too.  Rafa Benitez was refused money, Roberto Martinez opted to stay at Wigan and now, a messy situation with Alex McLeish and Birmingham City faces up with the possibility of an autumn court case with the lawyers.  With Ashley Young and Stewart Downing destined to leave, plus a lack of team harmony around the dressing room, a bleak future looks like being the way throughout the Midlands.  This was a totally wasted and shambolic campaign for Aston Villa. 

HIGHS: Darren Bent's signing.

LOWS: The appointment of Gerard Houillier and basically no goals upfront from their strikers (excluding Bent)

Sunderland                                                                                                                                                                                                        

A TOP half finish for Sunderland was a solid result, but it could have been so much better.  For two-thirds of the campaign, Steve Bruce and his players looked capable for a shot at European qualification via the league.  However, a run of one point in 11 games almost cost them their Premier League status and it must have been a relief to Bruce to see the Black Cats recover and win three of their last four games that kept them comfortably afloat.  Beating Newcastle in the league will also satisfy the fans.  They won’t want to be reminded of a terrible day on Tyneside in October, when bitter rivals Newcastle dismantled them 5-1, which was the only black spot on a brilliant first half of the season.  That included a 3-0 demolition of champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in November, which for me, is the performance and shock result of the entire campaign.  Asamoah Gyan came in on deadline day in the summer, and bought his World Cup flair to Wearside, whilst the loan signings of Danny Wellbeck and Nedum Onuoha were shrewd pieces of businesses.  Unfortunately, the club were afflicted with players ending up more likely to be on the treatment table, rather than the training ground.  Darren Bent’s departure to Aston Villa in January seriously hurt them, as did Lee Cattermole’s lack of discipline and the unsettled goalkeeping position, with both Craig Gordon and Simon Mignolet lacking a consistent run of games.  Jordan Henderson may have departed for Liverpool, but now Sunderland have money to spend on improving the squad and they could be a dark horse to watch next season.  The potential is there for the Black Cats to deliver something special, so there can be no excuses from Bruce and the board next campaign. 

HIGHS: A 3-0 demolition of champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in November.

LOWS: Horrific form from February/April which nearly cost them Premier League status and a 5-1 spanking at Newcastle.