With the first manager of the month award and £10,000 been and gone, we at YTM are looking at ways to make you budding managers kick yourselves for not picking players!
We have already shown you the best possible team, but here are eleven players who perhaps were not expected by many to do as well as they have done in the first few weeks of the season.
1015 - D James - 3.5m - 18 points
James moved to the South-Coast to be with his fiancee, but even he must not have expected the great start to the season that he has experienced. James has once again shown the critics why he was in the squad for the World Cup, and how any England manager would have to consider him for the England setup.
2106 - L Primus - 3.5m - 15 points
Harry Redknapp's revolution at Pompey seems to constantly include Linvoy Primus. He was seen by all of his other managers as merely a fringe player, yet Redknapp keeps picking him, and is currently being repaid for his faith. Primus has started the season very well alongside Sol Campbell, and he is currently a bargain at 3.5m.
2104 - D Stefanovic - 3.5m - 14 points
Stefanovic has been a regular for the new-look Portsmouth team, and he as well as all his team-mates have surprised all of us at YTM HQ with their fantastic start to the season.
2023 - I Campo - 3.5m - 14 points
Campo is down as a defender on YTM, but Bolton boss Sam Allardyce seems to prefer to play the veteran Spaniard in the centre of the park. Campo has contributed to Bolton's start to the season with a goal against Spurs in the first game of the season, and this haul of 14 points is well worth the 3.5m you would have to part with to get him in your team.
2040 - W Bridge - 4.5m - 14 points
Everybody expected Ashley Cole to be a Chelsea player by now, but Cole's loss seems to have been Wayne Bridge's gain, as he has started for Chelsea in every game of the season so far, and has been solid, chipping in with the odd KC.
3116 - D Francis - 3m - 17 points
Damien Francis moved to Watford from Wigan, and has played very well so far for the newly promoted team. He has chipped in with 2 goals in three games, and has been one of the most cosistent performers in a team that made Man United work hard for three points last weekend.
3122 - A Young - 2m - 10 points
Ashley Young has had a solid start to his first season in the top flight of English football. He has chipped in with a couple of KCs, and has looked like he will be terrorising full-backs for the rest of the season.
3093 - S Davis - 4m - 14 points
Three clean sheets for Portsmouth and three Key Contributions for Sean Davis has meant that he has had a great start to the season. Portsmouth look like they are starting to get the best out of this tireless midfielder, after his mid-season move from Tottenham last season.
4076 - B Zamora - 5m - 22 points
Dean Ashton's broken ankle meant that Alan Pardew needed someone to fill the striker gap in his team. Zamora stepped up to the plate and has so far scored 4 goals in three games. This form will surely see him stay in the Hammers' starting eleven... unless West Ham go and buy one of the best young strikers in the world in a sensational transfer coup... Zamora will not be too happy!
4061 - K Doyle - 3m - 12 points
Doyle has taken well to life in the Premiership, and has helped himself to a goal and one Key Contribution in Reading's first 3 games. He has proved so promising that there was talk of him signing for Man United before the transfer window closed, but that move failed to materialise. However, if he keeps on performing to his ability, expect the big clubs to come knocking come January.
4087 - N Kanu - 2.5 - 21 points
The gangly Nigerian has proved to everyone that Harry Redknapp was right to take a gamble on him, as he has so far scored 4 goals for his new club. Not many people would have expected Kanu to perform so well, and with the new signings coming just before the transfer deadline, Portsmouth, and Kanu will be hoping to go from strength to strength in the coming months.
These eleven players on You The Manager would have cost you a piffling 38 million. However, they would have scored any manager 171 points for August... enough to win the monthly award of £10,000...
...shame.
YTM HQ
Thursday, August 31, 2006
August Team Of The Month
The end of the first month of the Premiership is done, and YTM's monthly prize has gone to a manager whose team scored an admirable 160 points. How very different it could have been if someone had chosen this eleven:
GK: 1015 - D James - Portsmouth - 3.5m - 18 points
D: 2034 - J Terry - Chelsea - 8.5m - 20 points
D: 2008 - O Mellberg - Aston Villa - 5m - 15 points
D: 2077 - M Silvestre - Man United - 7m - 15 points
D: 2106 - L Primus - Portsmouth - 3m - 15 points
M: 3028 - F Lampard - Chelsea - 9m - 20 points
M: 3044 - J Bullard - Fulham - 5.5m - 18 points
M: 3116 - D Francis - Watford - 3m - 17 points
S: 4046 - L Saha - Man United - 6.5m - 22 points
S: 4076 - B Zamora - West Ham - 5m - 22 points
S: 4087 - N Kanu - Portsmouth - 2.5m - 21 points
With this team, at a total combined amount of £58.5m, any manager would have amassed 203 points...
...but who would have guessed that Portsmouth would have such a phenomenal start to the season!
Thats fantasy football management for you!
YTM HQ
GK: 1015 - D James - Portsmouth - 3.5m - 18 points
D: 2034 - J Terry - Chelsea - 8.5m - 20 points
D: 2008 - O Mellberg - Aston Villa - 5m - 15 points
D: 2077 - M Silvestre - Man United - 7m - 15 points
D: 2106 - L Primus - Portsmouth - 3m - 15 points
M: 3028 - F Lampard - Chelsea - 9m - 20 points
M: 3044 - J Bullard - Fulham - 5.5m - 18 points
M: 3116 - D Francis - Watford - 3m - 17 points
S: 4046 - L Saha - Man United - 6.5m - 22 points
S: 4076 - B Zamora - West Ham - 5m - 22 points
S: 4087 - N Kanu - Portsmouth - 2.5m - 21 points
With this team, at a total combined amount of £58.5m, any manager would have amassed 203 points...
...but who would have guessed that Portsmouth would have such a phenomenal start to the season!
Thats fantasy football management for you!
YTM HQ
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
YTM Additions: The £6.5m Striker Brigade!
With the transfer deadline looming, Premiership managers are scrambling to get the players that they think will spurr them unto success or save them from their poor start to the season.
There have been 3 major striker signings so far, and we at YTM HQ fully expect there to be more before midnight tomorrow.
But we have decided to highlight three new strikers, all signed for big money, all valued on YTM at £6.5m, all signed by clubs who need a kick-start to their seasons...
4089 Nicholas Anelka
Remember when Anelka was sold to Real Madrid by Arsenal for a silly amount of cash? Well the pacey striker has been to countless clubs in his career, and now the Anelka travelling show has pulled up at the Reebok Stadium, and Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has paid £8 million for a ticket.
There is no doubting Anelka's natural ability, but whether he can work in Big Sam's formation is another story, and would it be worth changing his plans for one striker?? YTM predicts goals from the Frenchman, but who knows how long until he gets itchy feet?
4088 Dirk Kuyt
Dirk Kuyt had a dissappointing World Cup, but was still a highly sought-after striker after the tournament. Liverpool have managed to obtain his services for £10 million, and he will be hoping to start paying back that fee as soon as possible. With Crouch, Bellamy, and now Kuyt in their barracks, Liverpool are beginning to have much needed competition for striking positions. YTM predicts a shakey start for the big Dutchman, but the goals will come.
4090 Obafemi Martins
Newcastle believe that they have found a capable replacement for Alan Shearer to wear the coveted number 9 shirt. Martins has pace to burn, and a rasping left-foot shot. He will be looking to grow a good partnership with Shola Ameobi, and Toon boss Glenn Roeder will be hoping for an injury-free forward, something Newcastle have not had for a very long time! YTM predicts a good partnership... but Ameobi could well steal the show.
If you agree or disagree, get your transfers done, and post your views now!
YTM HQ
There have been 3 major striker signings so far, and we at YTM HQ fully expect there to be more before midnight tomorrow.
But we have decided to highlight three new strikers, all signed for big money, all valued on YTM at £6.5m, all signed by clubs who need a kick-start to their seasons...
4089 Nicholas Anelka
Remember when Anelka was sold to Real Madrid by Arsenal for a silly amount of cash? Well the pacey striker has been to countless clubs in his career, and now the Anelka travelling show has pulled up at the Reebok Stadium, and Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has paid £8 million for a ticket.
There is no doubting Anelka's natural ability, but whether he can work in Big Sam's formation is another story, and would it be worth changing his plans for one striker?? YTM predicts goals from the Frenchman, but who knows how long until he gets itchy feet?
4088 Dirk Kuyt
Dirk Kuyt had a dissappointing World Cup, but was still a highly sought-after striker after the tournament. Liverpool have managed to obtain his services for £10 million, and he will be hoping to start paying back that fee as soon as possible. With Crouch, Bellamy, and now Kuyt in their barracks, Liverpool are beginning to have much needed competition for striking positions. YTM predicts a shakey start for the big Dutchman, but the goals will come.
4090 Obafemi Martins
Newcastle believe that they have found a capable replacement for Alan Shearer to wear the coveted number 9 shirt. Martins has pace to burn, and a rasping left-foot shot. He will be looking to grow a good partnership with Shola Ameobi, and Toon boss Glenn Roeder will be hoping for an injury-free forward, something Newcastle have not had for a very long time! YTM predicts a good partnership... but Ameobi could well steal the show.
If you agree or disagree, get your transfers done, and post your views now!
YTM HQ
Friday, August 18, 2006
Team Watch: Wigan
Paul Jewell has a relatively injury-free squad for selection for the first match of the season. However, his Wigan team still look fairly sparse in midfield. It is very likely that Jewell will play one of his defenders in an advanced role.
Expect all 5 of Wigan’s summer signings to start at the weekend, along with want-away Pascal Chimbonda, who looks resigned to staying at the JJB.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Newcastle on 19th August:
GK: Kirkland
DR: Boyce
DC: Hall
DC: De Zeeuw
DL: Baines
MR: Chimbonda
MC: Landzaat
MC: Scharner
ML: McCulloch
SC: Heskey
SC: Camara
What are Wigan’s chances in their difficult 2nd season in the top flight?
Will Heskey get the goals that his transfer fee demands?
Can Jewell make Chimbonda calm down and stay with the Latics?
Post your comments now!!
Expect all 5 of Wigan’s summer signings to start at the weekend, along with want-away Pascal Chimbonda, who looks resigned to staying at the JJB.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Newcastle on 19th August:
GK: Kirkland
DR: Boyce
DC: Hall
DC: De Zeeuw
DL: Baines
MR: Chimbonda
MC: Landzaat
MC: Scharner
ML: McCulloch
SC: Heskey
SC: Camara
What are Wigan’s chances in their difficult 2nd season in the top flight?
Will Heskey get the goals that his transfer fee demands?
Can Jewell make Chimbonda calm down and stay with the Latics?
Post your comments now!!
Team Watch: West Ham
With injuries to Dean Ashton and Matt Etherington, Pardew has a depleted squad for the first game of the season. This may force him to play with three forwards, and look for a convincing first victory of the 2006/7 Premiership campaign.
Pardew has worked well in the transfer market, signing England ‘keeper Rob Green, Ghanaian start John Paintsil, Combative midfielder Lee Bowyer and Forward Carlton Cole. I would expect all 4 of these signings to be present on Saturday.
YTM predicted starting XI vs Charlton on 19th August:
GK: Green
DR: Paintsil
DC: A Ferdinand
DC: Gabbidon
DL: Konchesky
MR: Bowyer
MC: Reo-Coker
ML: Benayoun
SC: Harewood
SC: Cole
SC: Zamora
Injuries:
Ashton – Broken ankle, out for at least 3 months
McCartney – Knee injury, out until mid-October
Spector – Shoulder injury, out till early September
Etherington – Knee injury, out till early September
Will West Ham be able to cope with the added strains of a European run?
Can they survive the first three months without star man Ashton?
Where will the Hammers finish this season??
Post your comments now!!
Pardew has worked well in the transfer market, signing England ‘keeper Rob Green, Ghanaian start John Paintsil, Combative midfielder Lee Bowyer and Forward Carlton Cole. I would expect all 4 of these signings to be present on Saturday.
YTM predicted starting XI vs Charlton on 19th August:
GK: Green
DR: Paintsil
DC: A Ferdinand
DC: Gabbidon
DL: Konchesky
MR: Bowyer
MC: Reo-Coker
ML: Benayoun
SC: Harewood
SC: Cole
SC: Zamora
Injuries:
Ashton – Broken ankle, out for at least 3 months
McCartney – Knee injury, out until mid-October
Spector – Shoulder injury, out till early September
Etherington – Knee injury, out till early September
Will West Ham be able to cope with the added strains of a European run?
Can they survive the first three months without star man Ashton?
Where will the Hammers finish this season??
Post your comments now!!
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Team Watch: Watford
Watford boss Aidy Bothroyd has made a couple of astute signings this summer, bringing in Midfielder Damien Francis from Wigan, and Defender Danny Shittu from QPR. Add to that the unknown talents of young Hungarian forward Tamas Priskin, and Watford could be a surprise package this season.
Bothroyd looks set to keep faith in the young players that gained promotion through the Playoffs last season, and they will have their work cut-out for them if they wish to make their return to the Premiership anything more than fleeting.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Everton on 19th August:
GK: Foster
DR: Doyley
DC: Shittu
DC: DeMerit
DL: Stewart
MR: Chambers
MC: Francis
MC: Mahon
ML: Young
SC: King
SC: Henderson
Do you think Watford can survive in the Premiership with its current crop?
Will Marlon King prove to be a sensation? Or will another striker flop?
Post your comments now!
Bothroyd looks set to keep faith in the young players that gained promotion through the Playoffs last season, and they will have their work cut-out for them if they wish to make their return to the Premiership anything more than fleeting.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Everton on 19th August:
GK: Foster
DR: Doyley
DC: Shittu
DC: DeMerit
DL: Stewart
MR: Chambers
MC: Francis
MC: Mahon
ML: Young
SC: King
SC: Henderson
Do you think Watford can survive in the Premiership with its current crop?
Will Marlon King prove to be a sensation? Or will another striker flop?
Post your comments now!
Team Watch: Tottenham
Martin Jol as had a busy summer, with many transfers in and a fair few transfers out. Ekotto looks as if he will start at left-back at the start of the season, and Zokora and Berbatov are definite starters in the holding midfield and up front respectively.
Carrick’s sale to Man United was a big loss, but the money they immediately recouped, thought to be £14m, will go a long way to solving Spurs’ two biggest problems: Right-back and Left-wing.
While the Pascal Chimbonda saga continues, Jol is starting Lee Young-Pyo at right-back, and he is acquitting himself well. However, Jol has fewer options for the left-wing slot, and will be looking to recruit as soon as possible. Spurs fans must have breathed a sigh of relief at the news reports that Damien Duff was to sign, but then grasped for air when he suddenly signed for Newcastle. If Jol recruits a class left-winger, expect a Champions League place for Spurs at the end of the season.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Bolton on 19th August:
GK: Robinson
DR: Le Young-Pyo
DC: Dawson
DC: Davenport
DL: Ekotto
MR: Lennon
MC: Zakora
MC: Jenas
ML: Davids/Zeigler/Tainio???
SC: Defoe
SC: Berbatov
Injuries:
King – Out with knee injury until mid-September
Keane – Out with thigh strain until late August
Can Spurs mount a serious challenge without the inspirational Carrick?
Will Dawson react well to the added pressure of King’s absence?
How will Berbatov fare in the Premiership?
Who should Spurs sign to play on the left-wing?
Post your comments now!!
Carrick’s sale to Man United was a big loss, but the money they immediately recouped, thought to be £14m, will go a long way to solving Spurs’ two biggest problems: Right-back and Left-wing.
While the Pascal Chimbonda saga continues, Jol is starting Lee Young-Pyo at right-back, and he is acquitting himself well. However, Jol has fewer options for the left-wing slot, and will be looking to recruit as soon as possible. Spurs fans must have breathed a sigh of relief at the news reports that Damien Duff was to sign, but then grasped for air when he suddenly signed for Newcastle. If Jol recruits a class left-winger, expect a Champions League place for Spurs at the end of the season.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Bolton on 19th August:
GK: Robinson
DR: Le Young-Pyo
DC: Dawson
DC: Davenport
DL: Ekotto
MR: Lennon
MC: Zakora
MC: Jenas
ML: Davids/Zeigler/Tainio???
SC: Defoe
SC: Berbatov
Injuries:
King – Out with knee injury until mid-September
Keane – Out with thigh strain until late August
Can Spurs mount a serious challenge without the inspirational Carrick?
Will Dawson react well to the added pressure of King’s absence?
How will Berbatov fare in the Premiership?
Who should Spurs sign to play on the left-wing?
Post your comments now!!
Team Watch: Sheffield United
Neil Warnock has made several signings in an attempt to keep Sheffield United in the top flight, including striker Rob Hulse and defensive pair David Sommeil and Mikele Leigertwood.
Add to this the talent he already has at his disposal, including Phil Jagielka and Danny Webber, and his team is starting to look stronger, and may survive in the Premiership.
However the injury to Claude Davis, who is out till September, is a real blow and Sheffield will have to battle through the first few games without their star centre-back.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Liverpool on 19th August:
GK: Kenny
DR: Sommeil
DC: Leigertwood
DC: Morgan
DL: Unsworth
MR: Ifill
MC: Jagielka
MC: Tonge
ML: Armstrong (Defender on YTM)
SC: Hulse
SC: Webber
Predictions for the season?
How many times do you think Warnock will get sent to the stands by Premiership referees?!
Will Hulse and Webber provide the goals that keep United up?
Post your comments here!
Add to this the talent he already has at his disposal, including Phil Jagielka and Danny Webber, and his team is starting to look stronger, and may survive in the Premiership.
However the injury to Claude Davis, who is out till September, is a real blow and Sheffield will have to battle through the first few games without their star centre-back.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Liverpool on 19th August:
GK: Kenny
DR: Sommeil
DC: Leigertwood
DC: Morgan
DL: Unsworth
MR: Ifill
MC: Jagielka
MC: Tonge
ML: Armstrong (Defender on YTM)
SC: Hulse
SC: Webber
Predictions for the season?
How many times do you think Warnock will get sent to the stands by Premiership referees?!
Will Hulse and Webber provide the goals that keep United up?
Post your comments here!
Team Watch: Reading
Reading’s first season in the Premiership is no doubt going to be a difficult one. Lack of transfer activity has meant that their team line-up is likely to be very similar to their Championship-winning team last season.
Whether Steve Coppell has a couple of players in his sights remains to be seen, but Reading’s options up front, as well as the mercurial Steve Sidwell in the midfield, should see them as able battlers in the fight against relegation.
YTM’s predicted team vs Middlesbrough on 19th August:
GK: Hahnemann
DR: Murty
DC: Sodje
DC: Sonko
DL: Shorey
MR: Little
MC: Sidwell
MC: Gunnarsson
ML: Oster
SC: Hyeon
SC: Kitson
How will Dave Kitson cope in the Premiership?
Will Coppell prove to be correct in not making too many signings?
Predictions for the season?
Post your comments now!
Whether Steve Coppell has a couple of players in his sights remains to be seen, but Reading’s options up front, as well as the mercurial Steve Sidwell in the midfield, should see them as able battlers in the fight against relegation.
YTM’s predicted team vs Middlesbrough on 19th August:
GK: Hahnemann
DR: Murty
DC: Sodje
DC: Sonko
DL: Shorey
MR: Little
MC: Sidwell
MC: Gunnarsson
ML: Oster
SC: Hyeon
SC: Kitson
How will Dave Kitson cope in the Premiership?
Will Coppell prove to be correct in not making too many signings?
Predictions for the season?
Post your comments now!
Community Shield - What did we learn?
1) Liverpool are about 1 week ahead of Chelsea in terms of fitness.
2) With injuries and Gallas unhappy Chelsea had few options to come on from the bench.
3) Benitez has more strength in his squad than last season and looks set to rotate to keep key players fresh.
4) Lampard looked happier and more effective once Ballack went off.
5) Shevchenko is class and should settle in the Premier League quickly.
6) Crouch and Bellamy have the makings of a decent partnership.
7) Although not a YTM points machine Momo Sissoko looks set for a big season.
8) Chelsea need to sign Asley Cole.
9) Riise could get a few defender goals - worth 8 points each.
10) Zenden is better in central midfield than on the left.
Anything else?
2) With injuries and Gallas unhappy Chelsea had few options to come on from the bench.
3) Benitez has more strength in his squad than last season and looks set to rotate to keep key players fresh.
4) Lampard looked happier and more effective once Ballack went off.
5) Shevchenko is class and should settle in the Premier League quickly.
6) Crouch and Bellamy have the makings of a decent partnership.
7) Although not a YTM points machine Momo Sissoko looks set for a big season.
8) Chelsea need to sign Asley Cole.
9) Riise could get a few defender goals - worth 8 points each.
10) Zenden is better in central midfield than on the left.
Anything else?
Monday, August 14, 2006
FA Community Shield - Liverpool 2 - 1 Chelsea
A lively Community Shield match ended in Liverpool lifting the trophy, and Jose Mourinho wondering what went wrong with his star-studded line-up.
Peter Crouch got the winner in the 80th minute with a header following some good work from Craig Bellamy… Their partnership is off to a flier with the season’s start just around the corner.
Andriy Shevchenko was on the scoresheet for Chelsea, and his communication with Frank Lampard is already clear for all to see, as Lampard’s 40-yard flighted ball found Sheva on the run, and the finish was inevitable.
Whether this is a sign for the season to come remains to be seen, but Liverpool, as well as the rest of the chasing pack in the Premiership, will take heart from Chelsea’s show of vulnerability.
The teams at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff:
Chelsea:
GK: Cudicini
DR: Geremi – Subbed 53 - Bridge
DC: Terry
DC: Carvalho
DL: Ferreira – Subbed 81 – Mikel
MR: Ballack – Subbed 25 - Kalou
MC: Essien
ML: Lampard (1 KC)
FR: Drogba – Subbed 71 – Wright-Phillips
SC: Shevchenko (1 goal)
FL: Robben – Subbed 62 - Diarra
Liverpool:
GK: Reina
DR: Finnan
DC: Agger
DC: Carragher
DL: Riise (1 goal)
MR: Pennant - Subbed 59 – Alonso
MC: Sissoko
MC: Zenden - Subbed 59 – Gerrard
ML: Gonzalez - Subbed 55 – Aurelio
SC: Garcia - Subbed 66 – Bellamy (1 KC)
SC: Crouch (1 goal) – Subbed 88 - Sinama
Peter Crouch got the winner in the 80th minute with a header following some good work from Craig Bellamy… Their partnership is off to a flier with the season’s start just around the corner.
Andriy Shevchenko was on the scoresheet for Chelsea, and his communication with Frank Lampard is already clear for all to see, as Lampard’s 40-yard flighted ball found Sheva on the run, and the finish was inevitable.
Whether this is a sign for the season to come remains to be seen, but Liverpool, as well as the rest of the chasing pack in the Premiership, will take heart from Chelsea’s show of vulnerability.
The teams at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff:
Chelsea:
GK: Cudicini
DR: Geremi – Subbed 53 - Bridge
DC: Terry
DC: Carvalho
DL: Ferreira – Subbed 81 – Mikel
MR: Ballack – Subbed 25 - Kalou
MC: Essien
ML: Lampard (1 KC)
FR: Drogba – Subbed 71 – Wright-Phillips
SC: Shevchenko (1 goal)
FL: Robben – Subbed 62 - Diarra
Liverpool:
GK: Reina
DR: Finnan
DC: Agger
DC: Carragher
DL: Riise (1 goal)
MR: Pennant - Subbed 59 – Alonso
MC: Sissoko
MC: Zenden - Subbed 59 – Gerrard
ML: Gonzalez - Subbed 55 – Aurelio
SC: Garcia - Subbed 66 – Bellamy (1 KC)
SC: Crouch (1 goal) – Subbed 88 - Sinama
Friday, August 11, 2006
Team Watch: Portsmouth
Harry Redknapp’s revolution continues at Portsmouth, and he has signed two England internationals this week. David James and Sol Campbell are guaranteed to be first choice for Pompey this season.
Redknapp is also looking to add some depth to his striking options, as Lua-Lua is out indefinitely with an ankle injury.
YTM’s predicted team to face Blackburn on 19th August:
GK: James
DR: Johnson
DC: Campbell
DC: Taylor
DL: Pamarot
MR: Mendes
MC: O’Neil
MC: Davis
ML: Thompson
SC: Benjani
SC: Todorov
Any thoughts on who Pompey should be signing this week?
Chances for the season?
Post your comments now!
Redknapp is also looking to add some depth to his striking options, as Lua-Lua is out indefinitely with an ankle injury.
YTM’s predicted team to face Blackburn on 19th August:
GK: James
DR: Johnson
DC: Campbell
DC: Taylor
DL: Pamarot
MR: Mendes
MC: O’Neil
MC: Davis
ML: Thompson
SC: Benjani
SC: Todorov
Any thoughts on who Pompey should be signing this week?
Chances for the season?
Post your comments now!
YTM Player Update - Ins & Outs
C Fletcher - Midfielder - West Ham – OUT
- The Welsh International has moved to Crystal Palace to seek out first team football.
H Crespo - Striker - Chelsea - OUT
- Crespo has finally got his wish, and will be playing his football in Italy next season for Inter Milan.
T Kuszczak - 1027 Goalkeeper - Man Utd – 3m - new player
- Has signed a 4-year deal at Old Trafford, and will be looking to eventually become their number one, ahead of Ed Van der Sar.
B Foster - 1028 - Goalkeeper - Watford - 2.5m - new player
- The signing of Kuszczak to Man United means that Ben Foster has been able to join Watford for another season on loan… Expect him to be number one for the Hornets.
D Shittu - 2149 - Defender - Watford - 2.5m - new player
- Signed from QPR, this commanding centre-back is likely to start the first game in the Premiership for Watford.
J Hoyte - 2150 - Defender - Arsenal – 3m - new player
- Hoyte has returned from a loan spell at Sunderland, and is looking good as the new season draws near. Whether he will start many games is another question.
S Campbell - 2151 - Defender - Portsmouth – 5m - new player
- Campbell has moved to Portsmouth after being released by Arsenal. He will be looking to help Pompey push for Europe this season.
G McCartney - 2152 - Defender - West Ham - 2.5m - new player
- One bright spot from Sunderland’s atrocious season last year, McCartney has signed for West Ham, and the defender will be looking to get into Alan Pardew’s plans straight away.
H Trabelsi - 2153 - Defender - Man City – 4m - new player
- An attacking right-back with an impressive CV, Trabelsi is the captain of Tunisia, has been to three World Cups, and has lots of Champions League experience with Ajax.
O G Solskjaer - 4086 - Striker - Man Utd – 4m - new player
- Finally, Solskjaer is back from injury, and his pre-season form has showed that he may very well be back to his best. At £4m on YTM, he could turn out to be the bargain of the season.
- The Welsh International has moved to Crystal Palace to seek out first team football.
H Crespo - Striker - Chelsea - OUT
- Crespo has finally got his wish, and will be playing his football in Italy next season for Inter Milan.
T Kuszczak - 1027 Goalkeeper - Man Utd – 3m - new player
- Has signed a 4-year deal at Old Trafford, and will be looking to eventually become their number one, ahead of Ed Van der Sar.
B Foster - 1028 - Goalkeeper - Watford - 2.5m - new player
- The signing of Kuszczak to Man United means that Ben Foster has been able to join Watford for another season on loan… Expect him to be number one for the Hornets.
D Shittu - 2149 - Defender - Watford - 2.5m - new player
- Signed from QPR, this commanding centre-back is likely to start the first game in the Premiership for Watford.
J Hoyte - 2150 - Defender - Arsenal – 3m - new player
- Hoyte has returned from a loan spell at Sunderland, and is looking good as the new season draws near. Whether he will start many games is another question.
S Campbell - 2151 - Defender - Portsmouth – 5m - new player
- Campbell has moved to Portsmouth after being released by Arsenal. He will be looking to help Pompey push for Europe this season.
G McCartney - 2152 - Defender - West Ham - 2.5m - new player
- One bright spot from Sunderland’s atrocious season last year, McCartney has signed for West Ham, and the defender will be looking to get into Alan Pardew’s plans straight away.
H Trabelsi - 2153 - Defender - Man City – 4m - new player
- An attacking right-back with an impressive CV, Trabelsi is the captain of Tunisia, has been to three World Cups, and has lots of Champions League experience with Ajax.
O G Solskjaer - 4086 - Striker - Man Utd – 4m - new player
- Finally, Solskjaer is back from injury, and his pre-season form has showed that he may very well be back to his best. At £4m on YTM, he could turn out to be the bargain of the season.
Team Watch: Newcastle
Newcastle were in action last night in a Uefa Cup qualification match against FC Ventspils, and came away from Latvia with a 1-0 victory, putting them in the driving seat for the return leg at St James Park.
The team Glenn Roeder fielded last night was a strong one, and there is no doubt that he will play one very similar to that in the first Premiership game of the season.
Damien Duff is a major transfer coup for the Toon Army, and they will be hoping that he bolsters the attacking options on the Tyne dramatically, following the retirement of Alan Shearer, and the long-term injury to Michael Owen.
Starting XI vs FC Ventspils on 10th August:
GK: Given
DR: Carr
DC: Bramble (1 goal)
DC: Moore
DL: Babayaro
MR: Solano
MC: Parker
MC: Butt
MC: Emre (1 KC)
ML: Duff
Sc: Ameobi
Newcastle are in the hunt for a new striker, with names such as Obafemi Martins and Dirk Kuyt being thrown around. If they get one of these players to sign, expect a two-pronged attack from them this season.
How do you think Newcastle will perform this season?
Is Duff the man to inspire the Toon to winning some silverware?
Post your comments now!
The team Glenn Roeder fielded last night was a strong one, and there is no doubt that he will play one very similar to that in the first Premiership game of the season.
Damien Duff is a major transfer coup for the Toon Army, and they will be hoping that he bolsters the attacking options on the Tyne dramatically, following the retirement of Alan Shearer, and the long-term injury to Michael Owen.
Starting XI vs FC Ventspils on 10th August:
GK: Given
DR: Carr
DC: Bramble (1 goal)
DC: Moore
DL: Babayaro
MR: Solano
MC: Parker
MC: Butt
MC: Emre (1 KC)
ML: Duff
Sc: Ameobi
Newcastle are in the hunt for a new striker, with names such as Obafemi Martins and Dirk Kuyt being thrown around. If they get one of these players to sign, expect a two-pronged attack from them this season.
How do you think Newcastle will perform this season?
Is Duff the man to inspire the Toon to winning some silverware?
Post your comments now!
Team Watch: Middlesbrough
New manager Gareth Southgate will be looking for a successful start to his managerial career, and only has one injury worry for Boro’s first match of the season.
Mendieta has a fractured metatarsal, and is not expected back to first team action until the end of August.
Middlesbrough have only made the one major signing this summer so far, and Julio Arca will be fighting for a place on the left side of the pitch, against either Downing or Pogatetz.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Reading on 19th August:
GK: Schwarzer
DR: Parnaby
DC: Riggott
DC: Ehiogu
DL: Pogatetz
MR: Cattermole
MC: Boateng
MC: Rochemback
ML: Downing
SC: Viduka
SC: Yakubu
What are Boro’s chances this season?
Will Southgate prove to become a defender turned successful manager, like Beckenbauer? Or will he fall from grace very quickly, like Tony Adams??
Your comments here now!!
Mendieta has a fractured metatarsal, and is not expected back to first team action until the end of August.
Middlesbrough have only made the one major signing this summer so far, and Julio Arca will be fighting for a place on the left side of the pitch, against either Downing or Pogatetz.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Reading on 19th August:
GK: Schwarzer
DR: Parnaby
DC: Riggott
DC: Ehiogu
DL: Pogatetz
MR: Cattermole
MC: Boateng
MC: Rochemback
ML: Downing
SC: Viduka
SC: Yakubu
What are Boro’s chances this season?
Will Southgate prove to become a defender turned successful manager, like Beckenbauer? Or will he fall from grace very quickly, like Tony Adams??
Your comments here now!!
Team Watch: Man United
Man United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has a few injury doubts ahead of their first game of the Premiership season. However, he is also on the lookout to recruit one or two more players, especially in the centre of midfield.
Ruud van Nistelrooy’s departure has left the Red Devil’s front line look a little thin. However, the return of Alan Smith and Ole Solskjaer should mean that they have no need to further invest in a forward.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Fulham on 20th August:
GK: Van der Sar
DR: G Neville
DC: Ferdinand
DC: Silvestre
DL: Heinze
MR: Ronaldo
MC: Scholes
MC: O’ Shea
ML: Giggs
SC: Rooney
SC: Saha
What are Man United’s chances this season?
Do they stand a chance of catching Chelsea this time around?
Post your comments now!
Ruud van Nistelrooy’s departure has left the Red Devil’s front line look a little thin. However, the return of Alan Smith and Ole Solskjaer should mean that they have no need to further invest in a forward.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Fulham on 20th August:
GK: Van der Sar
DR: G Neville
DC: Ferdinand
DC: Silvestre
DL: Heinze
MR: Ronaldo
MC: Scholes
MC: O’ Shea
ML: Giggs
SC: Rooney
SC: Saha
What are Man United’s chances this season?
Do they stand a chance of catching Chelsea this time around?
Post your comments now!
Team Watch: Liverpool UPDATE
Liverpool 2 - 1 Macabbi Haifa
Benitez will have a lot of things to ponder after his side's shakey victory at Anfield.
Benitez played a very strong starting eleven, and it is not unlikely that his starting eleven on Sat 19th August may be very similar...
GK: Reina
DR: Finnan
DC: Carragher
DC: Hyypia
DL: Riise
MR: Pennant
MC: Sissoko
MC: Alonso
ML: Zenden
FC: Gerrard
SC: Bellamy
Subs: Garcia for Zenden (55 mins)
Crouch for Bellamy (65 mins)
Gonzalez for Gerrard (85 mins)
Goals: Bellamy 33mins (KC: Sissoko)
Gonzalez 88mins (KC: Alonso)
Benitez will have a lot of things to ponder after his side's shakey victory at Anfield.
Benitez played a very strong starting eleven, and it is not unlikely that his starting eleven on Sat 19th August may be very similar...
GK: Reina
DR: Finnan
DC: Carragher
DC: Hyypia
DL: Riise
MR: Pennant
MC: Sissoko
MC: Alonso
ML: Zenden
FC: Gerrard
SC: Bellamy
Subs: Garcia for Zenden (55 mins)
Crouch for Bellamy (65 mins)
Gonzalez for Gerrard (85 mins)
Goals: Bellamy 33mins (KC: Sissoko)
Gonzalez 88mins (KC: Alonso)
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Team Watch: Arsenal - Update
A great performance by The Gunners last night as they kicked off their Champions League campaign in style.
They Lined up:
Almunia
Eboue
Djourou
Toure
Hoyte (will be added to YTM player list)
Hleb (2 KC's)
Fabregas (2 goals)
Silva
Rosicky
Adebayor
Van Persie (1 goal, 1 KC)
A very young side - imagine how good they could be in a couple of years time?
They Lined up:
Almunia
Eboue
Djourou
Toure
Hoyte (will be added to YTM player list)
Hleb (2 KC's)
Fabregas (2 goals)
Silva
Rosicky
Adebayor
Van Persie (1 goal, 1 KC)
A very young side - imagine how good they could be in a couple of years time?
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Team Watch: Man City
Talk is surrounding City boss Stuart Pearce regarding the possible exits of both captain Sylvain Distin, and ‘keeper David James. If these two big players leave Eastfields, then City may be looking at an uphill struggle this season, unless they can find replacements rapidly.
However, with the signings of strikers Bernardo Corradi and Paul Dickov, and midfielders Dietmar Hamann and Ousmane Dabo, Pearce has strengthened his options, and should be looking at a top ten finish this season.
YTM’s predicted team to play Chelsea on 20th August:
GK: Weaver
DR: Mills
DC: Richards
DC: Dunne
DL: Thatcher
MR: Sibierski
MC: Hamann
MC: Barton
ML: Sinclair
SC: Corradi
SC: Vassell
What are your predictions for Man City this season?
Will Corradi and Vassell hit it off and score the goals City need for a European push?
Post your comments now!
However, with the signings of strikers Bernardo Corradi and Paul Dickov, and midfielders Dietmar Hamann and Ousmane Dabo, Pearce has strengthened his options, and should be looking at a top ten finish this season.
YTM’s predicted team to play Chelsea on 20th August:
GK: Weaver
DR: Mills
DC: Richards
DC: Dunne
DL: Thatcher
MR: Sibierski
MC: Hamann
MC: Barton
ML: Sinclair
SC: Corradi
SC: Vassell
What are your predictions for Man City this season?
Will Corradi and Vassell hit it off and score the goals City need for a European push?
Post your comments now!
Team Watch: Liverpool
Rafa Benitez has a couple of injury concerns ahead of the new season. New signing Fabio Aurelio is struggling with a calf injury, and Luis Garcia is sidelined with an injury to his neck.
However, Benitez’ Liverpool starting eleven looks strong with the signings of Jermaine Pennant and Craig Bellamy, and the Reds will be looking to start the season well, and therefore be an instant challenge to champions Chelsea.
Liverpool’s pre-season has not been a pleasant one, after losing all three of their matches on a Scandinavian tour. The most recent match against Mainz ended in a 5-0 defeat… However, this may be the kick-start that the Anfield faithful needed in order to hit the ground running on August 19th.
YTM’s predicted team to play Sheffield Utd on 19th August:
GK: Reina
DR: Finnan
DC: Hyypia
DC: Carragher
DL: Riise
MR: Gerrard
MC: Alonso
MC: Sissoko
ML: Pennant
SC: Crouch
SC: Bellamy
Injuries:
Aurelio (calf – return date unknown)
Garcia (neck – return date unknown)
Any thoughts on Liverpool’s chances this season?
Is Bellamy a good bet for top scorer at 16-1?
Can the new boys shrug off their bad boy images and perform for the Reds?
Post your Liverpool views now!
However, Benitez’ Liverpool starting eleven looks strong with the signings of Jermaine Pennant and Craig Bellamy, and the Reds will be looking to start the season well, and therefore be an instant challenge to champions Chelsea.
Liverpool’s pre-season has not been a pleasant one, after losing all three of their matches on a Scandinavian tour. The most recent match against Mainz ended in a 5-0 defeat… However, this may be the kick-start that the Anfield faithful needed in order to hit the ground running on August 19th.
YTM’s predicted team to play Sheffield Utd on 19th August:
GK: Reina
DR: Finnan
DC: Hyypia
DC: Carragher
DL: Riise
MR: Gerrard
MC: Alonso
MC: Sissoko
ML: Pennant
SC: Crouch
SC: Bellamy
Injuries:
Aurelio (calf – return date unknown)
Garcia (neck – return date unknown)
Any thoughts on Liverpool’s chances this season?
Is Bellamy a good bet for top scorer at 16-1?
Can the new boys shrug off their bad boy images and perform for the Reds?
Post your Liverpool views now!
Monday, August 07, 2006
Team Watch: Fulham
Chris Coleman will be confident ahead of the new season. His new recruits have bolstered all areas of the pitch. Queudrue is an accomplished full-back, Bullard will work hard in the Fulham midfield, and Runstrum is a good backup striker for any Premiership team.
The problems surrounding Steed Malbranque however are casting a shadow over Fulham’s excellent pre-season form. If Coleman can remedy this problem, we should expect a top ten finish for the Cottagers.
YTM’s predicted team vs Man United on 20th August:
GK: Niemi
DR: Volz
DC: Bocanegra
DC: Christanval
DL: Queudrue
MR: Malbranque
MC: Bullard
MC: Diop
ML: Boa Morte
SC: John
SC: McBride
Where do you think Malbranque will be playing his football this season? Can he still possibly be a positive influence on the team?
Season Prediction for the Cottagers?
Post your comments now!
The problems surrounding Steed Malbranque however are casting a shadow over Fulham’s excellent pre-season form. If Coleman can remedy this problem, we should expect a top ten finish for the Cottagers.
YTM’s predicted team vs Man United on 20th August:
GK: Niemi
DR: Volz
DC: Bocanegra
DC: Christanval
DL: Queudrue
MR: Malbranque
MC: Bullard
MC: Diop
ML: Boa Morte
SC: John
SC: McBride
Where do you think Malbranque will be playing his football this season? Can he still possibly be a positive influence on the team?
Season Prediction for the Cottagers?
Post your comments now!
Team Watch: Everton
David Moyes will be looking to his new signings to both solidify Everton’s defence and bolster their forward line. Joleon Lescott was signed from Wolves for £5m, and will be looking to form a defensive partnership with club captain David Weir.
Up front, the key question is whether new signing Andy Johnson will be able to link up with his strike partner, James Beattie. If they hit it off, this could be a good season for the Toffees.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Watford on 19th August:
GK: Wright/Howard
DR: P Neville
DC: Weir
DC: Lescott
DL: Valente
MR: Davies
MC: Arteta
MC: Kilbane
ML: McFadden
SC: Beattie
SC: Johnson
What do you think of Everton’s chances for Europe next season?
Will Johnson prove he is worth the money Moyes paid for him?
Post your comments now!
Up front, the key question is whether new signing Andy Johnson will be able to link up with his strike partner, James Beattie. If they hit it off, this could be a good season for the Toffees.
YTM’s predicted starting XI vs Watford on 19th August:
GK: Wright/Howard
DR: P Neville
DC: Weir
DC: Lescott
DL: Valente
MR: Davies
MC: Arteta
MC: Kilbane
ML: McFadden
SC: Beattie
SC: Johnson
What do you think of Everton’s chances for Europe next season?
Will Johnson prove he is worth the money Moyes paid for him?
Post your comments now!
Latest Transfer News...
Well it looks like Hernan Crespo is getting his wish and moving back to Italy. Chelsea are in talks with Inter Milan over a proposed free transfer, with Chelsea having the option of taking Crespo back after 12 months.
With Crespo going... going... gone, That leaves Chelsea with Shevchenko, Drogba, Kalou and Mikel as their strike options. On paper this looks like a weak frontline, with everybody waiting to see from Drogba what Mourinho sees in him.
Well we at YTM have to disagree. The key man in Chelsea's frontline could very easily be Salomon Kalou.
The young striker just turned 21 on Saturday, and his track record already makes him seem worthy in the presence of the 'Galacticos' at Stamford Bridge. Kalou was a strike partner of 'Man of the Moment' Dirk Kuyt, and was not overshadowed by him, scoring 24 goals in 2004/5, and 15 in 2005/6.
If Kalou gets the chance at the Bridge, he may become the unlikely hero of Chelsea's third successive Premiership title campaign. With Crespo out, Mourinho has the option of hedging his bets with Kalou, or asking Abramovich for another striker.
What are your thoughts?
Do you think Chelsea need another striker with Crespo gone?
Will our YTM forcast come true, and Kalou become a scoring sensation for the Blues?
Post your comments now!
With Crespo going... going... gone, That leaves Chelsea with Shevchenko, Drogba, Kalou and Mikel as their strike options. On paper this looks like a weak frontline, with everybody waiting to see from Drogba what Mourinho sees in him.
Well we at YTM have to disagree. The key man in Chelsea's frontline could very easily be Salomon Kalou.
The young striker just turned 21 on Saturday, and his track record already makes him seem worthy in the presence of the 'Galacticos' at Stamford Bridge. Kalou was a strike partner of 'Man of the Moment' Dirk Kuyt, and was not overshadowed by him, scoring 24 goals in 2004/5, and 15 in 2005/6.
If Kalou gets the chance at the Bridge, he may become the unlikely hero of Chelsea's third successive Premiership title campaign. With Crespo out, Mourinho has the option of hedging his bets with Kalou, or asking Abramovich for another striker.
What are your thoughts?
Do you think Chelsea need another striker with Crespo gone?
Will our YTM forcast come true, and Kalou become a scoring sensation for the Blues?
Post your comments now!
Friday, August 04, 2006
Team Watch: Chelsea
Chelsea’s two major new signings have dramatically strengthened their team on paper, and it would be a brave man who would bet against them claiming a third successive Premiership crown.
Ballack and Shevchenko make the Chelsea XI look much more potent, and if Ashley Cole does indeed sign, then Chelsea will look like the best player-for-player team in the world… Imagine if they had Ronaldinho too!!
YTM’s prediction of the Chelsea team to play Man City on 20th August:
GK: Cech
DR: Ferreira
DC: Carvalho
DC: Terry
DL: Gallas/Ashley Cole??
MR: Joe Cole
MC: Ballack
MC: Makelele
MC: Lampard
ML: Robben
SC: Shevchenko
And with no injuries as well, Chelsea’s challenge should get off to the perfect start.
Can anyone stop the Chelsea machine?
Is there anybody out there that Chelsea could buy to make the team even better?
Post you comments here!
Ballack and Shevchenko make the Chelsea XI look much more potent, and if Ashley Cole does indeed sign, then Chelsea will look like the best player-for-player team in the world… Imagine if they had Ronaldinho too!!
YTM’s prediction of the Chelsea team to play Man City on 20th August:
GK: Cech
DR: Ferreira
DC: Carvalho
DC: Terry
DL: Gallas/Ashley Cole??
MR: Joe Cole
MC: Ballack
MC: Makelele
MC: Lampard
ML: Robben
SC: Shevchenko
And with no injuries as well, Chelsea’s challenge should get off to the perfect start.
Can anyone stop the Chelsea machine?
Is there anybody out there that Chelsea could buy to make the team even better?
Post you comments here!
Team Watch: Charlton
Charlton Athletic will be looking for a successful first season under Iain Dowie’s leadership, and their first game will be an interesting encounter, as Addicks fans get to know how their manager prefers their team to play.
That said, predicting his first team of the season is a difficult task, but we at YTM HQ do keep trying like fools…
Predicted starting XI vs West Ham on 19th August:
GK: Myhre
DL: Kishishev
DC: Hreidarsson
DC: Sorondo
DR: Young
ML: Ambrose
MC: El Karkouri (Defender on YTM)
MC: Holland
MR: Rommedahl
SC: Hasselbaink
SC: D. Bent
Injuries:
Gibbs: out with cartilage injury until November
Thomas: Metatarsal. Out until October
Any thoughts on Dowie’s signings this summer?
Predictions for the season: Will the Addicks be pushing for honours or avoiding the drop?
Post your views and opinions here now!
That said, predicting his first team of the season is a difficult task, but we at YTM HQ do keep trying like fools…
Predicted starting XI vs West Ham on 19th August:
GK: Myhre
DL: Kishishev
DC: Hreidarsson
DC: Sorondo
DR: Young
ML: Ambrose
MC: El Karkouri (Defender on YTM)
MC: Holland
MR: Rommedahl
SC: Hasselbaink
SC: D. Bent
Injuries:
Gibbs: out with cartilage injury until November
Thomas: Metatarsal. Out until October
Any thoughts on Dowie’s signings this summer?
Predictions for the season: Will the Addicks be pushing for honours or avoiding the drop?
Post your views and opinions here now!
Team Watch: Bolton
The Reebok stadium will be looking for another progressive season with Big Sam at the helm.
With injuries to utility-men Pedersen and Gardner, Sam Allardyce’s team for the first game of the season seems to pick itself.
Allardyce will be expected to play his tried and tested 4-5-1 formation, with either Kevin Davies or Jared Borgetti up front as the lone striker.
YTM’s predicted line-up for Bolton vs Spurs 19th August:
GK: Jaaskelainen
DL: Fortune (Midfielder on YTM)
DC: Meite
DC: Ben Haim
DR: Hunt
ML: Vaz Te
MC: Nolan
MC: Speed
MC: Faye
MR: Giannokopoulos
SC: Davies/Borgetti
Injuries:
Gardner: Cruciate Ligament (out till October)
Pedersen: Receiving exploratory surgery on an Achilles injury
Any thoughts on Bolton’s chances this season?
How can Big Sam solve his left-back problem?
Post your comments here!!
YTM HQ
With injuries to utility-men Pedersen and Gardner, Sam Allardyce’s team for the first game of the season seems to pick itself.
Allardyce will be expected to play his tried and tested 4-5-1 formation, with either Kevin Davies or Jared Borgetti up front as the lone striker.
YTM’s predicted line-up for Bolton vs Spurs 19th August:
GK: Jaaskelainen
DL: Fortune (Midfielder on YTM)
DC: Meite
DC: Ben Haim
DR: Hunt
ML: Vaz Te
MC: Nolan
MC: Speed
MC: Faye
MR: Giannokopoulos
SC: Davies/Borgetti
Injuries:
Gardner: Cruciate Ligament (out till October)
Pedersen: Receiving exploratory surgery on an Achilles injury
Any thoughts on Bolton’s chances this season?
How can Big Sam solve his left-back problem?
Post your comments here!!
YTM HQ
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Team Watch: Blackburn
Mark Hughes has made some smart striker signings this summer. After losing Craig Bellamy to Liverpool, Jason Roberts and Benni McCarthy have certainly softened the blow.
On paper their team looks strong, but with limited backup for the defence and midfield, Hughes will be hoping for more signings, or that his team stay injury free until at least January.
Probable line-up vs Portsmouth on 19th Aug:
GK: Friedel
DR: Mokoena
DC: Neill
DC: Nelson
DL: Gray
MR: Emerton
MC: Reid
MC: Savage
ML: Pedersen
SC: Roberts
SC: McCarthy
What are Blackburn’s chances this season?
Will Hughes’ new strike partnership hit the ground running?
Get your comments posted here NOW!!
On paper their team looks strong, but with limited backup for the defence and midfield, Hughes will be hoping for more signings, or that his team stay injury free until at least January.
Probable line-up vs Portsmouth on 19th Aug:
GK: Friedel
DR: Mokoena
DC: Neill
DC: Nelson
DL: Gray
MR: Emerton
MC: Reid
MC: Savage
ML: Pedersen
SC: Roberts
SC: McCarthy
What are Blackburn’s chances this season?
Will Hughes’ new strike partnership hit the ground running?
Get your comments posted here NOW!!
Team Watch: Villa
Caretaker manager Roy Aitken will be looking for a solid start to the season, in a bid to put his own name into the hat to become Villa manager.
But, at the same time, talks are ongoing between ‘Deadly’ Doug Ellis and possible suitors regarding takeovers, and new managers that will accompany them.
Villa is a difficult team to predict due to these factors, but if all stays the same come Aug 19th, here is YTM’s predicted line-up vs Arsenal:
GK: Sorensen
DR: Delaney
DC: Mellberg
DC: Bouma
DL: Samuel
MR: Hendrie
MC: Davis
MC: McCann
ML: Barry
SC: Baros
SC: Phillips
Got any comments on the current situation at Villa Park?
Who do you the Villa fans want to take over at the club?
Season Predictions?
Get your comments and opinions heard… Post your rants here!!
But, at the same time, talks are ongoing between ‘Deadly’ Doug Ellis and possible suitors regarding takeovers, and new managers that will accompany them.
Villa is a difficult team to predict due to these factors, but if all stays the same come Aug 19th, here is YTM’s predicted line-up vs Arsenal:
GK: Sorensen
DR: Delaney
DC: Mellberg
DC: Bouma
DL: Samuel
MR: Hendrie
MC: Davis
MC: McCann
ML: Barry
SC: Baros
SC: Phillips
Got any comments on the current situation at Villa Park?
Who do you the Villa fans want to take over at the club?
Season Predictions?
Get your comments and opinions heard… Post your rants here!!
Team Watch: Arsenal
After a mixed bag last season, Arsene Wenger will be looking to establish a more solid defence away from home this season. With the imminent departure of Ashley Cole, Wenger will have money and spaces in his team that desperately need filling.
Here’s YTM’s prediction for Arsenal’s starting XI vs Aston Villa @3pm on 19th August:
GK: Lehmann
DR: Eboue
DC: Toure
DC: Cygan/Djourou
DL: Flamini – Midfielder on YTM
MR: Rosicky
MC: Gilberto
MC: Fabregas
ML: Reyes – Striker on YTM
SC: Henry
SC: van Persie
Current Injuries:
Clichy (Out for first 6 weeks of season with foot injury)
Senderos (Out for first 6 weeks of season with dislocated shoulder)
Ljungberg (Likely to miss Villa game with ankle injury, should be fit soon after)
Diaby (Out till November with fractured & dislocated ankle)
Lauren (Yet to return to training after knee op in February)
Have an opinion on the Arsenal team?
How will they do against an uncertain Villa outfit with no full-time gaffer?
Season prospects?
Post your comments, stories and opinions HERE!!
Here’s YTM’s prediction for Arsenal’s starting XI vs Aston Villa @3pm on 19th August:
GK: Lehmann
DR: Eboue
DC: Toure
DC: Cygan/Djourou
DL: Flamini – Midfielder on YTM
MR: Rosicky
MC: Gilberto
MC: Fabregas
ML: Reyes – Striker on YTM
SC: Henry
SC: van Persie
Current Injuries:
Clichy (Out for first 6 weeks of season with foot injury)
Senderos (Out for first 6 weeks of season with dislocated shoulder)
Ljungberg (Likely to miss Villa game with ankle injury, should be fit soon after)
Diaby (Out till November with fractured & dislocated ankle)
Lauren (Yet to return to training after knee op in February)
Have an opinion on the Arsenal team?
How will they do against an uncertain Villa outfit with no full-time gaffer?
Season prospects?
Post your comments, stories and opinions HERE!!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
New signings available for selection on YTM 06/07
Here are the latest transfers for the Premiership:
Michael Carrick - Spurs --> Man United: You all should know about this one. Ferguson has paid big money to get his man, and even handed him the No.16 shirt, formerly worm by Roy Keane. Will Carrick be able to live up to the hype? It would take a bold man to bet against him. Value on YTM: £5.5m
Benni McCarthy - FC Porto --> Blackburn Rovers: McCarthy has been a prolific goalscorer over the years, and the 28-year old is looking to be that little extra to push Rovers into the coveted Champions League places.
Value on YTM: £5m
Emmerson Boyce - Crystal Palace --> Wigan: Boyce is a right-sided defender, and to the naked eye seems to be the natural replacement to want-away Pascal Chimbonda. This signing could see the end of the speculation, and Chimbonda finally moving on. Furthermore, if the Frenchman does move, expect lots of games and YTM points for Boyce.
Value on YTM: £3.5m
John Pantsil - Hapoel Tel Aviv --> West Ham: Pantsil is a young Ghanaian full-back who had an excellent World Cup. Pantsil is expected to solve the right-back problem at Upton Park. Could be an unlikely success story on You The Manager 06/07.
Value on YTM: £3.5m
David Thompson - Wigan --> Portsmouth: Thompson has left Wigan and Joined Pompey in order to gain first team football. He will have to work very hard to get it at Fratton Park, as their list of central midfielders is not a short one.
Value on YTM: £3.5m
So what are you waiting for?
Get on to www.youthemanager.co.uk and start selecting these new signings.
Any thoughts on these transfers? Are you Man United fans happy at spending £18m on Carrick? Post your thoughts now!
YTM HQ
Michael Carrick - Spurs --> Man United: You all should know about this one. Ferguson has paid big money to get his man, and even handed him the No.16 shirt, formerly worm by Roy Keane. Will Carrick be able to live up to the hype? It would take a bold man to bet against him. Value on YTM: £5.5m
Benni McCarthy - FC Porto --> Blackburn Rovers: McCarthy has been a prolific goalscorer over the years, and the 28-year old is looking to be that little extra to push Rovers into the coveted Champions League places.
Value on YTM: £5m
Emmerson Boyce - Crystal Palace --> Wigan: Boyce is a right-sided defender, and to the naked eye seems to be the natural replacement to want-away Pascal Chimbonda. This signing could see the end of the speculation, and Chimbonda finally moving on. Furthermore, if the Frenchman does move, expect lots of games and YTM points for Boyce.
Value on YTM: £3.5m
John Pantsil - Hapoel Tel Aviv --> West Ham: Pantsil is a young Ghanaian full-back who had an excellent World Cup. Pantsil is expected to solve the right-back problem at Upton Park. Could be an unlikely success story on You The Manager 06/07.
Value on YTM: £3.5m
David Thompson - Wigan --> Portsmouth: Thompson has left Wigan and Joined Pompey in order to gain first team football. He will have to work very hard to get it at Fratton Park, as their list of central midfielders is not a short one.
Value on YTM: £3.5m
So what are you waiting for?
Get on to www.youthemanager.co.uk and start selecting these new signings.
Any thoughts on these transfers? Are you Man United fans happy at spending £18m on Carrick? Post your thoughts now!
YTM HQ
Welcome to the Official You The Manager Blog!!
Hello and Welcome to the You The Manager 2006/7 Official Blog!
Here you will be able to find latest transfer news, injury updates and other gossip to give you a broader knowledge of You The Manager.
With the help of the postings and responses on this Blog, you will be much more up-to-date on who to sign and who to drop, and when to do all of this!
Stay tuned for the pre-season posts, which will include Friendly results, and players who have impressed during the first few weeks of training.
Watch this space!!
YTM HQ
Here you will be able to find latest transfer news, injury updates and other gossip to give you a broader knowledge of You The Manager.
With the help of the postings and responses on this Blog, you will be much more up-to-date on who to sign and who to drop, and when to do all of this!
Stay tuned for the pre-season posts, which will include Friendly results, and players who have impressed during the first few weeks of training.
Watch this space!!
YTM HQ
You The Manager IS BACK!! £275,000 TO BE WON!
After an action packed summer of World Cup Fantasy Football we hope you have enjoyed a couple of weeks off because your favourite Fantasy Football game is back fully refreshed and raring to go!
With a guaranteed £275,000 prize pot, easy-to-play game rules and some great new features you'd be mad to sign-up anywhere else.
Just ask Darren Ingram of Plymouth, who after finishing top of our leaderboard last season walked off with an awesome £120,000. Darren entered just 5 teams into the competition last year. Could YOU be The Manager next May?
We've got an amazing top prize of £120,000, plus £25,000 for the runner-up and £15,000 for third place. There are also cash prizes of £10,000, £5,000, £3,000, £2,000, £1,000, £750 and £250 for fourth to tenth places respectively.
The rules are simple:
1) Select 11 players in a 1, 4, 3, 3 formation
2) Budget of £60m to spend
3) No limit on number of players from any one club
4) Season starts on 19th August at 12.30pm
5) 4 Transfer Windows Max of 12 transfers per team
6) Transfer Amnesty in operation before start of season
Log on at www.youthemanager.co.uk and start picking your all-conquering teams!!
YTM HQ
With a guaranteed £275,000 prize pot, easy-to-play game rules and some great new features you'd be mad to sign-up anywhere else.
Just ask Darren Ingram of Plymouth, who after finishing top of our leaderboard last season walked off with an awesome £120,000. Darren entered just 5 teams into the competition last year. Could YOU be The Manager next May?
We've got an amazing top prize of £120,000, plus £25,000 for the runner-up and £15,000 for third place. There are also cash prizes of £10,000, £5,000, £3,000, £2,000, £1,000, £750 and £250 for fourth to tenth places respectively.
The rules are simple:
1) Select 11 players in a 1, 4, 3, 3 formation
2) Budget of £60m to spend
3) No limit on number of players from any one club
4) Season starts on 19th August at 12.30pm
5) 4 Transfer Windows Max of 12 transfers per team
6) Transfer Amnesty in operation before start of season
Log on at www.youthemanager.co.uk and start picking your all-conquering teams!!
YTM HQ
You The Manager World Cup Roundup - Ireland Win!!
Congratulations to Eoghan Quigley of Dublin who has won £35,000 for 1st and 2nd.....
After a dramatic final full of incident Eoghan Quigley has been crowned the You The Manager World Champion for 2006!
His top team finished on 276 points, 6 points clear of Rui Estevez Marquez in 3rd and 8 points clear of Zoran Furlan in 4th.
The final line-up for Eoghan's winning team was:
Zuberbuhler (SWI), Magnin (SWI), Materazzi (ITA), Muller (SWI), Zambrotta (ITA), Barnetta (SWI), Beckham (ENG), Zidane (FRA), Amoah (GHA), Gilardino (ITA) and Toni (ITA).
Remarkably Eoghan's team that came 2nd finished with a very different line-up to his top team. He effectively won the competition twice!
Eoghan - You are THE World Cup Manager!
After a dramatic final full of incident Eoghan Quigley has been crowned the You The Manager World Champion for 2006!
His top team finished on 276 points, 6 points clear of Rui Estevez Marquez in 3rd and 8 points clear of Zoran Furlan in 4th.
The final line-up for Eoghan's winning team was:
Zuberbuhler (SWI), Magnin (SWI), Materazzi (ITA), Muller (SWI), Zambrotta (ITA), Barnetta (SWI), Beckham (ENG), Zidane (FRA), Amoah (GHA), Gilardino (ITA) and Toni (ITA).
Remarkably Eoghan's team that came 2nd finished with a very different line-up to his top team. He effectively won the competition twice!
Eoghan - You are THE World Cup Manager!
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