Life After the Fairytale Ending

[carlosisonfire]

Football Manager 2014, all leagues loaded to the lowest possible level. Original Database, 1 change made. Seattle's DeAndre Yedlin's CA set to 120 and PA to 155 on August 2014 (in game date) after seeing his WC performances.

This story is inspired by all the media coverage surrounding Manchester United after van Gaal's arrival. It made me want to detail the season of one of my clubs (i have 5 player managers in this save) but from a press report point of view. The posts will consist of news articles you'd regularly find online, but only pertaining to Leeds United or important events in the game world. In my previous story attempts I've elected to write from the manager's perspective, so this is uncharted territory for me. Hopefully you enjoy it. The story starts on the final day of the 2014/2015 season.

Saturday May 16th, 2015

Three Way Race Heading into Final Day of Premier League Season

One of the tightest and most exciting title races in recent history is coming to a nail biting finish tomorrow in the English Premier League.

Manchester City currently hold first place with 88 points, and will need a victory against fierce rivals Manchester United in order to secure the title. United is currently in the middle of the fight for fourth place with Tottenham and Chelsea, and need to derail City’s hopes for the title in order to secure the final Champions League spot. City have had a fantastic run of wins leading into this game, but a lack of squad rotation, coupled with a deep run into the Europa League, has many wondering whether the players have enough left in the tank to bring the trophy home.

In second place, with 87 points, lie Everton, who are looking to retain the title. They will face 14th placed Newcastle, who have nothing left to play for this season. Ever since Fernando Sampedro took over the team after Moyes went to Manchester United, the Toffees have been unstoppable. After winning the Premier League last season, they have gone on an dream run in the Champions League, reaching the final, in which they will have to face Atlético Madrid. Now they find themselves one win away from retaining the division, but they will need some help from former manager David Moyes in order to derail Manchester City. Everton seem to have the easiest game out of the three contenders, but find themselves without a win in their last three games. They will have to overcome their poor run of form if they are to keep the league crown.

And in 3rd place, also with 87 points but with a much lower goal differential, are surprise package and newly promoted Leeds United. With what was considered a weak squad all around before the season started, miracle maker Lyndon Miles has brought his team back to the dizzying heights of the Premier League. They will face 17th placed West Brom, who could be relegated if they lose the game and 18th placed Norwich manage to win their game. Leeds need to defeat West Brom, who will be giving it their all in order to stay in the division, and hope that neither Manchester City or Everton manage to win their games in order to lift the Premier League for the first time since the 1991-1992 season.

Regardless of who ends up being the winner, tomorrow will bring a close to one of the tightest and most exciting league campaigns in recent times.

[carlosisonfire]

Sunday May 17th, 2015

Sudden Collapse

Manchester Citiy's dominating run of 13 straight wins was brought to an end by archrivals Manchester United. From the opening whistle it was evident that Kompany and Nkoulou were out of sorts, fatigued due to a lack of rotation. 7 minutes and a simple counter attack was all it took for United to go ahead. A long ball over the defense was played, and Nani easily outpaced both center backs before slotting into the bottom corner with a clean finish. 3 minutes later, Nani would repeat the same manouver to double the lead. The City center backs never looked like they could keep up with United’s pace up front. At the other end, Aguero failed get on the end of any pass, and looked sluggish in his movements. At the 20 minute mark, all fight seem to go out of the team as Nani completed his hat trick, and news filled the stadium that Everton had gone ahead at Newcastle. United simply retained possession at that point, and City’s players threw the towel.

United were happy to pass the ball around, knowing that their victory would secure their qualification to the Champion's league, and City lacked the energy to get back into the game. The three first half goals would prove to be the only goals scored during the match, as United cruised to a comfortable victory. Everton routed Newcastle 4-0 with a strong performance in order to leapfrog City after their collapse, securing the title for the second straight year. West Brom secured a scoreless draw against Leeds, ensuring their Premier League survival, and relegating Leeds' to a still highly impressive third place finish. Machester City had the lead going into the final day with their fate in their hands, but David Moyes' dismantling of his city rivals has handed his former club the title.

| Pos   | Inf   | Team        |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   | C     | Everton     |       | 38    | 27    | 9     | 2     | 76    | 22    | +54   | 90    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |       | Man City    |       | 38    | 27    | 7     | 4     | 72    | 27    | +45   | 88    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   |       | Leeds       |       | 38    | 26    | 10    | 2     | 64    | 26    | +38   | 88    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |       | Man Utd     |       | 38    | 18    | 8     | 12    | 61    | 49    | +12   | 62    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Tottenham   |       | 38    | 16    | 13    | 9     | 42    | 31    | +11   | 61    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | Chelsea     |       | 38    | 17    | 9     | 12    | 66    | 47    | +19   | 60    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Reading     |       | 38    | 16    | 6     | 16    | 52    | 47    | +5    | 54    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Cardiff     |       | 38    | 16    | 6     | 16    | 42    | 50    | -8    | 54    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Arsenal     |       | 38    | 13    | 13    | 12    | 42    | 36    | +6    | 52    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | Southampton |       | 38    | 13    | 12    | 13    | 60    | 63    | -3    | 51    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Stoke       |       | 38    | 12    | 14    | 12    | 48    | 46    | +2    | 50    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Swansea     |       | 38    | 11    | 16    | 11    | 49    | 52    | -3    | 49    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Liverpool   |       | 38    | 11    | 11    | 16    | 47    | 48    | -1    | 44    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Newcastle   |       | 38    | 11    | 10    | 17    | 40    | 54    | -14   | 43    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | West Brom   |       | 38    | 9     | 12    | 17    | 43    | 62    | -19   | 39    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |       | Fulham      |       | 38    | 9     | 12    | 17    | 35    | 55    | -20   | 39    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |       | Aston Villa |       | 38    | 10    | 8     | 20    | 38    | 57    | -19   | 38    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  | R     | Norwich     |       | 38    | 9     | 8     | 21    | 43    | 66    | -23   | 35    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  | R     | Hull        |       | 38    | 6     | 6     | 26    | 22    | 60    | -38   | 24    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  | R     | Charlton    |       | 38    | 4     | 8     | 26    | 35    | 79    | -44   | 20    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

[carlosisonfire]

Monday May 18th, 2015

Poor Squad Management from City

No one could’ve predicted such a catastrophic crash on the final day. Or rather, they could have, and did predict it. Many pundits and fans, myself included, have been saying that Manchester City could not continue sending out the same line up every three days for months. It’s just not physically possible for a player to maintain their performance levels with the rigors of the modern game. Anyone paying the least bit of attention could tell you that Sergio Aguero hasn’t looked 100% since February. Or Vincent Kompany. Or Xherdan Shaqiri. Or many of City’s first team players really. But the fans were willing to ignore it because it looked like we could finally win the title.

Before the loss yesterday, City had been on a 13 match win streak since April 4th in all competitions. That sounds like an amazing figure, but upon deeper analysis, becomes a little more complicated. Thats 13 games between April 4th and May 13th, which is about a game every three days. This extremely congested schedule is due to City’s deep progress into every competition they entered. City lifted the League Cup, was eliminated from the FA Cup in the 6th round after playing 3 replays, and are going to dispute the Europa League Final against Schalke in 2 days.

Now, considering the bloated size of City’s team, and the general quality of every player, it should follow that it would manage to compete on many fronts with ease, but that is not what happened. In fact, it is surprising that they managed to even string thirteen victories together. If one analyzes that 13 win sequence, it would become apparent rather quickly that Kompany, N’koulou, Shaqiri, Toure, Dzeko, and Aguero started every one of those games. If one actually watches said games, it would become apparent rather quickly that said players weren’t performing at their peak. In fact, many of those victories were rather fortunate 1-0 results against the likes of Reading, Stoke, Charlton, Fulham, and Norwich. But still, the team went into yesterday’s game with optimism, thinking that United, whom had been defeated 3-0 earlier this season, would roll over and renounce their Champions League aspirations.

The game would end as a reverse of the previous encounter, with 3-0 victory for United, while Everton sealed a 4-0 rout of Newcastle to overtake City and retain the title. Let this serve as a cautionary tale for lack of rotation, and the effect of fielding clearly jaded players in an important match. Hopefully City can put in a better display against Schalke on Wednesday, though with only three days of rest, it seems unlikely the squad will have enough in the tank.

[carlosisonfire]

Friday June 12, 2015

2014/2015 English Premier League Review

As the new season draws near, we take some time to review the previous league campaign, with its many ups and downs.

Champions – Everton

Everton continue to punch above their weight under manager Fernando Sampedro, not only managing to retain the title, but also defeating Atlético Madrid in penalties to lift the Champions League trophy. They held on to first place for most of the season, but a poor run of form in April that saw them lose to Arsenal and draw at Stoke and Southampton saw them hand pole position to Manchester City. After a final day collapse by City against their rivals Manchester United, Everton was able to leapfrog them and secure the crown for the second year running. Despite selling captain Leighton Baines and failing to sign transfer targets Lukaku and Benteke, Everton managed to repeat last year's feat and retain the title, helped along by the signing of Andreas Cornelius, Neil Taylor, and Josue.

Overachievers – Leeds United – 3rd place

Leeds managed to return to the Premier League after a long absence under manager Lyndon Miles, but were expected to drop back down immediately. Some shrewd business in the transfer market, coupled with their 4-1-3-2 formation designed to catch their opponents on the break, brought them within reach of the league title with one game remaining. Leeds have come back into the division as a force to be reckoned with, but it remains to be seen how their squad will cope with being in multiple competitions next season.

Underperformers – Arsenal – 9th place

Having finished fourth the previous season, Arsenal were expected to continue challenging for the Champions League. The preseason acquisitions of Javier Pastore for 15.75m, Alessandro Florenzi for 12m, and Sofiane Feghouli for 15m only served to heigthen expectations for this team. Sadly, a lack of a cutting edge in front of goal, combined with a leaky defense, saw them off to a very poor start. Never in contention for the European places, Arsene Wenger’s side coupled poor form in the league with a dream run into the Champions League, where they eventually lost to Everton in the semi-final 3-2 on aggregate. Wenger has annouced he is now retiring after this poor season, and much speculation surrounds the empty managerial post.

Relegated – Norwich, Hull, Charlton

Top Goalscorer – Edin Dzeko (Manchester City) – 23 goals

Most Assists – Xherdan Shaqiri (Manchester City) – 15 assists

Signing of the Season – Esmael Goncalves (Leeds) – 550k

By far, the most impressive signing of the season was Leeds’ striker Esmael Goncalves from Rio Ave for a measly 550k. Paired up front with Apostollos Vellios, who joined also on a free, many believed that Leeds would struggle in the Premier League. All doubts were quickly put aside when Goncalves scored in the opener against Liverpool with only 6 minutes on the clock, even though the game would end at 1-1. The second game of the season saw Goncalves score the winner in the 92nd minute against arch-rivals Manchester United, earning himself a place in every fan’s heart. Goncalves finished the season with 17 goals and 5 assists in 36 appearances, and many are waiting to see the displays he’ll put on in the Champions League.

- Runner up – Victor Perez (Leeds) – Free Transfer

Victor Perez was the runner up for the award. The midfield playmaker scored 13 goals this season, along with 8 assists. Another key part of Leeds’ push towards the top of the league.

Footballer of the Year – Xherdan Shaqiri (Manchester City)

Golden Glove – Yann Sommer (Leeds) – 20 Clean Sheets

Manager of the Year – Lyndon Miles (Leeds)

Players’ Player of the Year – Leighton Baines (Man Utd)

Players’ Young Player of the Year – Josue (Everton)

Player’s Team of the Year 4-4-2

GK – Yann Sommer (Leeds)

DR – Bacary Sagna (Arsenal)

DC – Douglas (Liverpool)

DC – Alberto (Everton)

DL – Leighton Baines (Man Utd)

MR – Xherdan Shaqiri (Man City)

MC – Victor Perez (Leeds)

MC – Juan Mata (Chelsea)

ML – Josue (Everton)

ST – Edin Dzeko (Man City)

ST – Christian Benteke (Chelsea)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Leeds United Transfers 2014/2015 Season

In

ST – Russell Gallanders – Crewe – 62k

DRC – Jesse Agnew – Crawley – 73k

ST – Damien Vasey – Harrogate – 8.25k

GK – Yann Sommer – Basel – 7m

DM – Simao – Levante – 625k

DR – Jack Hunt – Crystal Palace – 4.4m

M/AM C – Jon Williams – Crystal Palace – 10m

ST – Esmael Goncalves – Rio Ave – 550k

DL – Carles Planas – Barcelona – Free

ST – Denis Straqualursi – Emelec – Free

M/AM C – Victor Perez – Valladolid – Free

DL – Jaume Costa – Villareal – Free

ST – Apostolos Vellios – Everton – Free

GK – Ross Turnbull – Doncaster – Free

ST – Marco Ruben – Dynamo Kyiv – Loan

DM/M C – Amidu Salifu – Fiorentina – Loan

M/AM C – Rafal Wolski – Fiorentina – Loan

Out

ST – Noel Hunt – Fulham – 1.1m

ST – Ross McCormack – Fulham – 2.1m

DL – Aidan White – Charlton – 1.9m

DR – Marcos – Charlton – 550k

GK – Jamie Ashdown – Rotherham – Free

DR, MRC – Paul Green – Bristol City – Free

DL, MLC – Danny Pugh – Bournemouth – Free

DM/MC – David Norris – Sheff Utd – Free

AM RL – El Hadji Diouf – Free

ST – Luke Varney – Chesterfield – Free

Various Youth Players Released

[CamillePunk]

Really cool idea and quality execution so far.

[carlosisonfire]

Thanks CamillePunk, I'm also really enjoying writing in this form. Glad you like it.

Friday June 12, 2015

Postseason Leeds Tactical Analysis

One of the biggest surprises of this past season was Leeds United’s campaign with what most would describe as a supbar squad. Their success has been down to great tactical discipline and counter attacking football, and Miles’ ability to make the correct adjustments when ahead

                                   Goncalves
                                                                Vellios

                                                    Perez

                                      Williams                     Wolski

                                                  Vass/Simao            

                        Planas/Costa                                          Hunt
                                               Batth         Wootton

                                                      Sommer

Leeds’ 4-1-3-2 focused on pressing high up the pitch in order to force mistakes, with Goncalves ready to ourun and Vellios ready to outmuscle any opponent. The pressing style worked perfectly, as it prevented Williams, Perez, and Wolski – all offensive midfielders – from having their defensive weaknesses exposed. Vass and Simao, who alternated in the holding role due to constant suspension, generally moved backwards, becoming the third centre back alongside Wootton and Batth. This approach was not sustainable for 90 minutes though, and the team was equally as comfortable sitting back in their own half and waiting for an opposition mistake.

Yann Sommer has proven to be the Premier League's best goalkeeper, achieving the most clean sheets by far despite playing for a newly promoted team. Sommer has been instrumental for Leeds, earning points all on his own with his acrobatic saves. Leeds defensive record is owed for the most part to fantastic goalkeeping rather than a general defensive solidity.

The wingbacks pushed forward and defended very little, with Hunt being the most effective. His attacking runs kept the wingers and full backs on alert, while on the left Planas and Costa alternated due to poor performances. Most of the goals conceded by Leeds came from mistakes from the left backs.

Wootton and Batth are both very tall and strong centre backs, but they lacked in pace and were constantly exposed. Luckily, Yann Sommer proved himself to be the best goalkeeper in league, with consistent high quality and reflex saves.

The formation, while 4-1-3-2 on paper, is more akin to a 4-4-2 diamond in attack, with Victor Perez rarely in line with his fellow midfielders. Perez actually was a key player in the lineup, playing more like a second striker rather than the playmaker opponents expect him to be. His runs from deep allowed him to net 13 goals during the league campaign, while also contributing with 8 assists. His pressing high up the pitch forced mistakes from the opponents and led to many goal situations for Leeds. When ahead, Miles would remove Williams and Wolski and introduce the more defensive minded Amidu Salifu or Rodolph Austin. This allowed the club to secure many tight victories.

On the average counter attack by Leeds, Vellios would receive the ball and hold it, allowing Goncalves and Victor Perez to get into dangerous positions before laying it off. In this sense, Vellios was the most advanced creative player in the Leeds lineup, racking up 10 assists during the season. He was also Leeds’ second top goalscorer with 15 goals, being a constant threat with his height. His goals came primarily from corner kicks or crosses coming in from the right wing.

Goncalves is the man who has received most of the attention after Leeds’ fantastic season. The man’s sheer physicality allowed him to outmuscled and outrun most defenders, leading to some pretty fantastic goals. Goncalves would stand by the last defender and simply attempt to outrun him, which in most cases he did, leading to his 16 goal haul. Despite his impressive goal statistics though, Goncalves squandered many chances and rarely tried to play his teammates in. Still, Miles played to his strengths and got the best out of him.

Marco Ruben and Denis Stracqualursi were the other two strikers at Leeds, but had minimal effect. Ruben joined on loan, but a serious injury in preseason prevented him from catching Miles’eye, and his loan was terminated in January without playing a single competitive game. Stracqualursi featured more prominently, appearing in 12 games, but couldn’t match Vellios’ distribution and found himself on the bench rather quickly.

Rafal Wolski showed himself to be the creative force behind Leeds’ push towards the top of the league, laying on 12 assists for his teammates. Williams, despite commanding a large transfer fee, was rather disappointing and didn’t stand out.

Leeds was a team that preferred to sit back and absorb pressure, biding its time to attack on the break. Mostly every team they faced played into their hands, with most midtable/lower half teams seeing a newly promoted side as the perfect chance to achieve a win. This is unlikely to be the same next year, with teams now aware of their system and wary of their recent success. Leeds are not going to find playing their preferred style as easy next year, so it falls to Lyndon Miles to modify his current system if he is to repeat his top four finish.

[carlosisonfire]

Saturday June 13, 2015

Leeds finalize Pizarro and Vietto Deals

A press release from Leeds United has confirmed the signings of two players. The first is Guido Pizarro, signed from Mexican outfit Tigres for 6m. The 25 year old Argentinian midfielder has been a creative force for Tigres the past two seasons, leading their assist charts. He can also play as a holding midfielder, though that would be a waste of his creative potential. Pizarro is likely to take Rafal Wolski’s place in the midfield, with Fiorentina unwilling to loan the youngster to Leeds for a third straight season.

The other capture from Leeds has been 21 year old Argentinian striker Luciano Vietto for 6.25m. The young forward has had a rather poor season for Racing Club in Argentina, but Lyndon Miles sees potential in him. Vietto is expected to be Goncalves’ understudy and will get first team football as Miles rotates his side. The signing has caught many off guard, with sources saying that they had been surprised when Vietto was handed a work permit.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday June 15, 2015

Leeds Thrill Fans with Wolski Signing, Disappoint with Dawson Capture

Many fans had been requesting the signing of Wolski after impressing at Leeds for the last two years. The young Polish midfielder had been on loan at the English club for the past two years, topping the assists charts at Leeds in both the Championship and the Premier League. Fiorentina had earlier announced that they would be unwilling to extend the loan deal for another year, and Miles has been quick to make a permanent move for the young starlet. Wolski joins for a small fee of 3.6m which has confused many pundits, who thought the Italian club would hold out for a much larger fee.

The less stellar signing made by Leeds has been central defender Craig Dawson, who has joined from strugglers West Brom for 4.4m. The center back had a rather poor season for the Baggies, which has many questioning the move. Dawson is likely to be cover for the starting pair of Batth and Wootton, who have impressed in both the second tier and the Premier League.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday June 18, 2015

Leeds Complete Kramer Signing

Leeds United have annouced that they have finalized the signing of 24 year old defensive midfielder Christoph Kramer from Leverkusen. The management has been praised for persuading the player to join the club, as well as managing pry the player away from his club for only 7m. Bayern and Schalke had expressed interest in signing the player, but no concrete bids materialized from either club. The new signing immediately becomes one of Leeds’ best players, and surely will start ahead of Vass and Simao.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday June 19, 2015

United Break the Bank to Sign Mirallas, Fans Unhappy

Manchester United boss David Moyes has announced today that his team have completed the signing of Everton’s right winger Kevin Mirallas for a shocking 38m.

“He has fantastic pace and an eye for goal. He is just what we needed to give our attack a boost, and I am sure he will greatly contribute to the success of the club.”

Kevin Mirallas’ transfer has caused sharp backlash from the supporters, who say the player is worth nowhere near that sum. Mirallas was by far Everton’s best player when they took the league by storm and won it in 2013/2014, with the Belgian starting every league game and netting 28 goals and 12 assists from a right inside forward position. He was the league’s top goalscorer, and would go on to win the Footballer of the year award with that season.

His fantastic form saw both Chelsea and PSG put in bids around 45m for the forward, with Everton immediately rejecting the approaches. “Mirallas is a key part of the squad, and will be integral in our Champions League aspirations. No amount of money could make us part with him,” said manager Sampedro after rejecting approaches for the player.

Mirallas would go on to be first choice for Everton last season, but was unable to replicate his past form. Mirallas would go on to record 11 goals and 11 assists from 39 appearances in all competitions – not a bad tally, but certainly not woth 38m. Not only do the player’s performances not justify the amount paid for his services, but also the fact that his contract runs out in June 2016.

The general consensus is that Moyes has grossly overpaid for a player who was alright for his club last season and could have been available for free next year. Even more troubling are reports that the transfer consumed a significant part of the United’s transfer kitty, making any other marquee signings unlikely unless other players depart.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday June 26, 2015

Casemiro Joins Leeds on Loan, “Transfer Business Concluded” says Leeds Boss

Leeds United boss Lyndon Miles has declared today that all of their business in the transfer window has been completed, even before the window opens for many of the other European leagues.

“I knew who my targets were since March, and I think the club has done fantastically to finalize all these signings so quickly. With two weeks to go before the players report back from holiday, I can safely say that our transfer business is concluded.”

The statement from Miles has come out following the confirmation of Casemiro’s loan move from Real Madrid. Fans are feeling optimistic after capturing the Brazilian midfielder, who put in good performances in both la Liga and the Champions League last season.

The only sale that Leeds have made so far is the transfer of midfielder Luke Murphy for 1m to Crystal Palace. Murphy was expected to play a part in Leeds’ debut season in the top tier, but a series of long term injuries kept him from making a single appearance in the top flight.

Rumors are saying that Miles is not actually finished with his strengthening, with sources claiming that he has made inquiries regarding Swansea’s Ben Davies and Everton’s Bryan Oviedo. Others claim that there is simply no more money left to spend at Leeds, and they will have to make do with the squad they have so far. Regardless of the situation, Lyndon Miles has acknowledged the weakness in the left back area, with both Carles Planas and Jaume Costa putting in supbar performances in the previous league campaign.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday July 3, 2015

Adkins Stands firm on Davies Transfer

Swansea boss Roberto Martinez had previously said that Ben Davies would be available for 5m pounds, which had Leeds reportedly interested considering their weakness at left back. That all changed two days ago, when Roberto Martinez joined Arsenal as Wenger’s Successor, with Nigel Adkins taking the helm of the Swans.

“Ben Davies is an important part of the future of the club, and he will not be leaving the club this season.”

Some cynical corners of the media comment that Adkins is just trying to raise the price of Davies, with sources reporting that the new asking price is 10m. This hefty price tag seems to rule out Leeds, who have spent most of their budget already. Rumors are circulating that Everton could swoop in for Ben Davies as a replacement for Bryan Oviedo, whom they sold to Parma for 4m pounds earlier this week. This could see Ben Davies fight former teammate Neil Taylor, who joined the Toffees last season, over the left back starting role at Everton.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday July 9, 2015

Not Esmael-ing Anymore

Esmael Goncalves has shocked Leeds United by handing in a formal transfer request today. Reports say that this is due to an argument over a new contract, which the manager refused to offer.

“I feel like a player who has scored 16 goals in the Premier League and is going to play in the Champions League deserves a better contract than what I currently have. Since Leeds do not want to provide me with such a deal, I am requesting a transfer”

The 24 year old Portuguese striker signed a contract until 2019 when he joined Leeds last season at a reported 19k per week, but no longer seems happy with his salary. Sources within the club say that while they were willing to negotiate a new contract, Goncalves’ request for over 3 times his current salary exceeded Leeds’ financial capabilities.

“I am not happy with how things have worked out, but we will not keep a player here against his will. Goncalves is available, but for no less than 8m.”

For a striker who scored 16 goals in the Premier League last season, 8m is a ridiculously low price. There are reports that Arsenal are interested in the player, considering their ill luck in front of goal last season. CSKA Moscow, Leverkusen, Fulham, and many others are rumored to also be interested in signing the disenchanted Leeds marksman.

[carlosisonfire]

Friday July 10, 2015

Mad Scramble

Ever since Esmael Goncalves put in his transfer request at Leeds, it seems that every striker on the planet has been linked to United as his replacement. Leeds United scouts have been spotted all over South America, and many clubs are reportedly being contacted. Of course, the replacement is unlikely to be a world class footballer, with Leeds reportedly unable to afford Swansea’s 10m asking price for Ben Davies.

The current favourites seem to be Corinthians’ 25 year old Alan as well as Cruzeiro’s 28 year old Elkeson, though neither seems likely to get a work permit. Other sources suggest that Lyndon Miles is looking closer to home, with his attention being on England U21 strikers Danny Ings and Saido Berahino. Due to their great performances in the Euro U21 championship however, it is unlikely that either of them will be available for cheap.

One thing is for certain though, Leeds cannot head into the Champions League with unproven Luciano Vietto as their only goalscoring threat, with Vellios and Stracqualursi taking a support/creative role in Miles’ formation.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday July 11, 2015

Crystal Slipper

In a shocking turn of events, Crystal Palace are the only team who have had an offer for Esmeal Goncalves accepted. Arsenal, Leverkusen, CSKA Moscow, and even Fulham put in bids, but all around the 6.5m mark, which Leeds promptly rejected. The only team willing to meet Leeds’ valuation of the striker was recently promoted Crystal Palace, who have already signed Luke Murphy from Leeds for 1m. Speculation says that Goncalves will reject Palace’s offer, stating that he will not want to be involved in a relegation scrap, but Crystal Palace boss Ian Holloway is confident that an agreement can be reached.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday July 13, 2015

Palace Sign Goncalves

In one of the most shocking moves this window, Esmael Goncalves has signed for Crystal Palace for 8m after a contract row with previous club Leeds. Goncalves has traded Champions League football for what is sure to be a relegation battle to the bitter end, but he remains confident in his abilities.

“When I originally signed for Leeds, I thought we would be battling for relegation, and look how that turned out. I am confident that I can lead Palace to success, just like at Leeds.”

Many question the striker’s motives though, as he has included a minimum release clause of 12m, along with a clause to receive 20% of his next transfer fee. He also has a match highest earner clause, and is making 58k per week.

Palace has shelled out the cash in order to entice Goncalves to join, but whether the move ends up being beneficial remains to be seen.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday July 14, 2015

Leeds sign Dybala for 5m

Palermo striker Paulo Dybala has been presented by Lyndon Miles as the replacement to Esmael Goncalves. The 21 year old Polish striker has signed for Leeds despite having a rather average season for Palermo. Still, Miles is hopeful, stating that the move is one that will benefit the club in the long run. Many fans are wondering whether Vietto and Dybala have the ability to replace Goncalves’ 16 league goals last season, much less perform in the Champions League.

[carlosisonfire]

July 20, 2015

Reality Check

After the amazing results that led Leeds United to finish 3rd in their first season back into to the Premier League, optimistic fans were hoping for Leeds to qualify from their Champions League group and fight their way back into another top four finish. Sadly, the first preseason match has left some fans feeling grim about the future campaign.

The team’s first friendly on the 19th of July was a daunting task against German powerhouse Schalke. The Gelsenkirchen side won the Bundesliga title in 2014 and 2015, as well as the Champions League in 2014 and Europa League in 2015.

Schalke’s squad as as close to full strength as it could be, since defenders Eder Alvarez Balanta and Eugenio Mena, along with new signing Lucas Romero, were away at the Copa America. Schalke lined up with Benoit Costil in goal, Allan Nyom at right back, Howedes and Kurt Zouma in the center, and new signing Santiago Garcia at left back. High-profile signing Diego Reyes took the holding midfield role, with Manuel Fernandes and Albin Ekdal just ahead of him in midfield. Julian Draxler and Maximillian Meyer were on the left and right wings respectively, with Timo Werner spearheading the attack.

Leeds manager Lyndon Miles made a few changes to his preferred line up from last season, sending new man Craig Dawson in replacement of Scott Wootton in central defense. Yann Sommer remained in goal, with Jack Hunt, Danny Batth, and Jaume Costa making up the rest of the back line. Cristoph Kramer took the holding position from Vass, while Guido Pizarro replaced Rafal Wolski in central midfield. Victor Perez and Jon Williams retained their spots. Up front, Luciano Vietto made his debut, with Vellios as his strike partner.

Things started off poorly when Victor Perez pulled up holding his hamstring with only 2 minutes on the clock, and was promptly replaced by Rafal Wolski. Wolski had a hard time making effective forward runs, and Leeds struggled during the whole first half as Schalke played them off the park. Key saves from Sommer denied Werner and Draxler from scoring clear chances, but a defensive lapse from Craig Dawson allowed Kurt Zouma to open the scoring from a corner kick in the 32nd minute. At the other end, Vellios had barely had a touch, while Vietto mistimed his runs and found himself constantly offside.

During halftime, both sides made wholesale changes, with Leeds replacing everyone except Vietto and Wolski, and Schalke replacing everyone except Zouma and Howedes. Casemiro and Denis Stracqualursi injected new life into the Leeds side, but Vietto’s movement was poor and never looked open. Schalke’s 17 year old substitute keeper wasn’t tested once during the second half. Disappointing passes from Wolski killed counter attacks before they started, and it was no surprise when Howedes added the second from another corner kick in the 59th minute. Shalke played at a training ground pace, yet Leeds could not keep up.

19.7.2015

Friendly

Schalke 2 – Zouma (32), Howedes (59)

Leeds 0 - Perez (inj. 2)

Man of the Match – Benedikt Howedes

The main letdowns from the Leeds performance were Luciano Vietto, who was originally signed to be Goncalves’ understudy, and Rafal Wolski. Vietto looked nowhere near as dangerous as his predecessor, and will have to improve. Paulo Dybala did not feature due to an injury.

Victor Perez suffered a hamstring injury, which will sideline him for four weeks. Wolski was ineffective as a replacement, and has exposed a glaring lack of depth at Leeds which was not evident last season.

Schalke could have and should have scored more, but they simply didn’t look interested in exerting themselves. Leeds will have to put in a better display in three days when they face Champions League finalists Atletico Madrid.

[carlosisonfire]

July 21, 2015

Wigan chase Stracqualursi

Leeds United have rejected a 450k bid from recently promoted Wigan Athletic for Argentine target man Denis Straqualursi. Wigan manager Tony Pulis has singled out Stracqualursi as the man he needs leading his line in order to save the club from relegation.

“Stracqualursi is a very strong player, able to fight off defenders, hold the ball, and spearhead the attack. He would be a key part of my planes here at the DW.”

No comment has been made by either the player or his agent regarding Wigan’s interest. Lyndon Miles, on the other hand, said that the player would not be leaving under any circumstances.

“Stracqualursi will play an integral role as we compete on many fronts this season, we simply cannot allow him to go.”

Some Leeds fans are grim about their team’s chances this season, suggesting that Stracqualursi is better suited for Wigan’s relegation struggle than the Champions League.

Stracqualursi scored 5 goals in 15 appearances last season, though saw his chances in the first team dwindle due to Vellios’ top drawer performances.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

July 24, 2015

Atletico Stroll Past Leeds

Yesterday’s friendly match at Elland Road ended in a disappointing defeat for Leeds United, which was made worse by the news that wing back Sam Byram will be out for at least 5 months with a torn hamstring.

Leeds made only one change from their starting lineup, replacing injured Victor Perez with Rafal Wolski. Despite fielding many youngsters, Atletico dominated possession, and would have taken the lead in at least three occasions during the first half if not for Yann Sommer’s internvetion. For the second game in a row, Leeds managed less that 70% pass accuracy despite being one of the leading passing teams in the league last season.

Atletico have been criticised for their adventurous 4-2-4 formation, which throws caution to the wind, and is largely blamed for Atletico’s disappointing 6th place finish in la Liga last season. Leeds were unable to capitalize on this weakness though, and did not manage a single shot on target the whole game.

Luciano Vietto and Rafal Wolski were the only Leeds players to play the full 90 minutes, and they left a lot to be desired. Sub striker Stracqualursi again impressed up front, but Vietto squandered the opportunities that his compatriot created for him.

Sam Byram had to come off in the 73rd minute after attempting a sprint, and was diagnosed with a torn hamstring, which could keep him out for as many as 6 months. With 10 men on the field, Adam Vass slotted into the right back spot as Leeds attempted to see out the game, but Valon Behrami appeared in the 91st minute with a simple tap in to put away a Diego Costa cutback.

23.7.2015

Friendly

Leeds 0 – Byram (inj. 73)

Atletico 1 – Behrami (91)

Man of the Match – Valon Behrami

Leeds United was unable to compete with an Atletico team which fielded 4 youngsters, and generally looked poor throughout the game. Their next game against Championship side Sunderland in 3 days should prove to be a good chance to regroup and try to put these opening poor results behind.

[carlosisonfire]

July 24, 2015

Lack of Depth at Leeds

If there is one thing that Leeds have shown so far into the preseason, it’s that they are missing replacements in key positions. Rafal Wolski, despite being magnificent last season, cannot play in Victor Perez’s role. Calling Luciano Vietto poor would be a compliment, and he is no longer a replacement, but rather the first choice poacher at the team. It seems that the Goncalves contract dispute has hurt them more than expect.

Now reports surface that Wigan have come in with another bid for Vellios’ backup, Denis Stracqualursi. The offer is only 1m, but some reports say that Stracqualursi would be interested in playing regular football at Wigan rather than sitting on the bench. If he were to leave, Leeds would be hard pressed to find a suitable replacement, much less for 1m.

The news that Sam Byram will be out for the long term is cause for great concern over at Elland Road. Last season, Byram suffered a back injury in February and missed the remainder of the season, but Jack Hunt managed to cover the role by himself since Leeds were only playing once a week. This year, wiith a game every three days due to the Champions League, Jack Hunt again finds himself as the sole senior right back contracted to Leeds. Speculation suggests that 17 year-old promising full back Jesse Agnew could make the step up to the first team, but no one believes he is ready for the rigors of the Premier League.

Leeds are simply lacking the money to bring anyone in. The left back area has been particularly scrutinized, with analysts pointing out that Costa and Planas were poor last season, and will only do worse in Europe. Ben Davies was originally thought to be heading to Leeds, but ended up at Everton when Swansea raised their asking price from 5m to 10m. Leeds also reportedly made a bid of 4.4m for Boca left back Juan Sanchez Miño, but he ended up at Atletico for 8.25m. This evident lack of funds suggests that no cover will be brought in for Jack Hunt, and young Jesse Agnew might just have to do for Leeds against Europe’s elite.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

July 24, 2015

Everton Smash Schalke

German champions Schalke were completely demolished by Everton yesterday at VELTINS-Arena. Goals from Andreas Cornelius and Michael Bradley in the first half saw Everton comfortably ahead before wholesale changes at halftime. The Everton subs maintained the pressure, adding a third and fourth goal courtesy of Alen Halilovic and Aleksandar Mitrovic. This result is Schalke’s third preseason defeat, having also lost to Monaco and PSG. Schalke start their season in three days with the German Super Cup against Hoffenheim, where they will surely need to put in better performances. Their only display of dominance so far has come against a poor Leeds United team.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

July 27, 2015

Leeds Unconvincing in Victory Despite Scoreline

Leeds United struggled today to overcome second-tier outfit Sunderland. The 3-0 scoreline flattered United, as the hosts struggled to contain Sunderland’s loaned striker Harry Kane.

Against Championship opposition, young striker Luciano Vietto looked much more comfortable, and repeatedly beat the opposition defenders. In the 4th minute, Vellios played the ball in behind the defence, to which Vietto reached by outpacing his marker. Finding himself towards the left age of the box, Vietto chose to cut back the ball towards Wolski, who was making a run up from midfield. With Sunderland keeper Khune completely out of position, Wolski had the goal at his mercy. The young polish midfielder somehow managed to shoot the ball over the bar though, and it would set the tone for the rest of a poor match.

Harry Kane was constantly causing trouble for Leeds’ backline, outmuscling and outpacing them, creating two one on one opportunities in the first 12 minutes. Luckily, Yann Sommer managed to save both efforts to keep the score at nil. Throughout the first half, the encounter looked like two evenly matched teams playing an open game, rather than a midtable Championship side against a top Premier League team. Leeds were finally able to go ahead in the 44th minute, with Luciano Vietto dribbling past his defender in order to find himself in front of the keeper. Vietto put in a poor, weak shot towards the near post, but Khune somehow missed it, gifting Leeds the lead.

Leeds subbed everyone at half time, except Wolski, Vietto, and Danny Batth. An interesting choice was the use of Tom Lees in replacement of Jack Hunt at right wing back. Leeds is certainly better defensively, but lacks pace and doesn’t contribute anything going forward.

The lack of threat from the wings due to Tom Lees’ introduction, as well as Carles Planas misplacing paces and generally being poor, caused Sunderland to take control of the game. Particularly impressive was England u19 striker Jay Abbot, who consitently outpaced the Leeds backline but lacked the technique to finish his chances.

With mounting pressure from Sunderland, Leeds were able to play their favored counter attacking style effectively, though sub goalkeeper Ross Turnbull had to put in some saves to keep Sunderland off the board. Leeds would add their second goal against the run of play in the 84th minute, when again Luciano Vietto dribbled past his defender near the midfield circle, then proceeded to dribble past goalkeeper Khune to slot in his second goal of the game. This seemed to deflate the Sunderland players, who relinquished their dominance almost immediately. Casemiro piled on the misery by scoring from outside the box in the 91st minute, though it was a poor shot that Khune certainly was expected to save.

27.7.2015

Friendly

Leeds 3 – Vietto (44, 84), Casemiro (91)

Sunderland 0

Man of the Match – Luciano Vietto

Leeds manage to take their first preseason win against an inferior Sunderland team who played against them as equals. The three nil scoreline is misleading, as the difference in this game was caused by goalkeeping errors on Sunderland’s end. The Black Cats will be happy with their performance against a top division rival, while doubts around Leeds’ chances this season continue to grow.

[carlosisonfire]

July 29, 2015

Planas Unhappy with Current Deal

Leeds United left back Carles Planas has annouced today that he believes he deserves a new deal, stating that his current salary is not fit for a player who made 27 top flight appearances last season.

Planas joined Leeds on a free at the start of the 2014/2015 season from Spanish giants Barcelona, but he had reportedly agreed to and signed a contract in January of 2014, while Leeds were still in the Championship and promotion wasn’t assured. Planas is reportedly on a 6,000 pound a week deal, which is certainly low by Premier League standards. The fact that he has two years remaining on his current contract, coupled with his poor performances are unlikely to warrant a new deal.

Leeds are reportedly in the market for a new left back, being linked with the likes of Ben Davies, Bryan Oviedo, and Juan Sanchez Miño, who have since joined other clubs.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

July 31, 2015

Leeds Dominate Juventus in Preseason Clash

Leeds United fans will be delighted with their team’s performance earlier today against runaway Italian champions Juventus. The Italian powerhouse sent a full strength team in a 4-3-3 formation, with the front three consisting of Llorente flanked by Vucinic and Tevez. Lyndon Miles sent an unchanged side from his previous friendlies, but the performance was much better today.

Leeds made their intent clear from the opening whistle, charging forward and causing problems for Juventus. Luciano Vietto tried to dribble past Giorgio Chiellini with only 1 minute on the clock, and was brought down by the Italy international. Rafal Wolski took the ensuing free kick and rattled the post with his shot.

Juventus maintained dominance of possession, but were not able to create anything concrete. In the 18th minute, Leeds were presented with another golden chance. Apostolos Vellios received the ball outside the box with his back to goal, and with a quick turn was able to lose his man, after which he unleashed a fierce shot at the top right corner. Storari was there to make the save, but the rebound fell straight to Luciano Vietto, who found himself in the 6 yard box with an open goal. The young Argentine forward continued his run of poor form by somehow shanking it wide when it was easier to score, leaving his manager fuming on the sidelines. Seconds later, Leeds would recover the ball after Storari’s goal kick, and a nice combination of passes would see Jon Williams hit the crossbar after a Vellios cutback.

In the 21st minute, Vietto showed a very nice piece of indiviual skill, dribbling past Chiellini and Davide Santon to find himself one on one with Storari, only to hit his effort of target yet again. Seconds later, a nice combination play from Wolski and Vellios would see Vietto receive the ball in a clear goal scoring position, but he only managed to hit the post with his effort.

Juventus continued having the lion’s share of possession with 60%, but were reduced to passing it around in their own half, lacking the incisiveness to create even one attacking play. In the 36th minute, Leeds would have yet another opportunity. Kramer dispossessed Pogba in midfield, laying a pass forwards for Guido Pizarro. The Argentine midfielder lofted the ball over the opposing centrebacks, setting up a golden chance for his compatriot Vietto. Still, no matter how many chances presented themselves for the young striker, he could not convert any. This time, his shot went flying over the bar, nowhere near threatening Storari’s goal.

In the 44th minute, Vellios had a free header in the box after a great run and subsequent cross from Jack Hunt, but the Greek’s effort was easily saved by Storari.

Leeds headed into the dressing room ruing over missed chances. Miles made his usual wholesale changes, leaving Rafal Wolski and Danny Batth on the pitch. Tom Lees made another appearance at right back, while striker Paulo Dybala made his debut off the bench after missing the first couple of friendlies with a hamstring injury.

The game went relatively quiet at that point, with Leeds’ quality of play dropping, but Juventus were still unable to create anything concrete. In the 64th minute, Juventus had their first chance, when a poor backpass from Dybala was intercepted by Vucinic. The left winger quickly played the ball towards Llorente, who took a first time shot, but blasted it over the bar.

Sommer played the ensuing goal kick short towards Batth, who layed a first time pass towards Vass, who in turn played a first time short pass forwards towards Casemiro. The brazilian, on loan from Real Madrid, played a long ball in between the full back and the center back, anticipating Paulo Dybala’s run. The Polish striker outpaced both of his opposite numbers, finding himself facing Storari one on one from a tight angle. The young striker tried an audacious lob over Storari, who was not anticipating such an attempt. With an extravagant show of skill, Leeds United took the lead against Juventus in the 65th minute.

The rest of the match was rather dross, with Juventus choosing to sit back and the Leeds players happy to see out the clock.

31.7.2015

Friendly

Leeds 1 – Dybala (65)

Juventus 0

Man of the Match – Paulo Dybala

This game alleviated many of the fans concerns over performances, showing that the team can outclass a European juggernaut. Juventus did not manage a single shot on target during the match, and Leeds created plenty of clear cut scoring opportunities. Question marks remain over Luciano Vietto, whose poor preseason performances have been met with sharp criticism from both the press and supporters. Paulo Dybala, who was brought in as a replacement for Goncalves, has proven that he has quality in finishing that Vietto lacks, and surely must be first choice over his misfiring teammate. Leeds face another stern test in their last friendly encounter of the season against Spanish champions Barcelona, but hopes are high after the fantastic display they have put on today.

[carlosisonfire]

August 2, 2015

Batth Out with Training Ground Injury

Leeds’ starting defender Danny Batth has suffered a wrist injury in training which could keep him out for 2 weeks. The defender will likely miss out Leeds’ opener against Tottenham, but should be ready for his team’s trip to Q.P.R. on the 22nd. Scott Wootton and Craig Dawson are widely expected to start against Barcelona and Tottenham, with Tom Lees as cover for both the centre backs and Jack Hunt.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

August 2, 2015

Interest in Stracqualursi Intensifies, Could Request New Deal

Italian club Parma have joined the chase for Leeds target man Denis Stracqualursi, joining the large list of suitors vying for the forward’s services. Bids have already been rejected from West Brom, Fulham, Wigan, Aston Villa, and others, but Lyndon Miles remains adamant that the striker will remain a Leeds player.

Despite Parma offering 1.8 million for the forward, which is almost two times the amount offered by the English clubs, Leeds have rejected the offer. Stracqualursi is reportedly happy at Elland Road, and performed better than Apostolos Vellios during the preseason, making him a candidate for a starting role in the team’s first competitive fixture against Spurs. Stracqualursi’s agent has made remarks stating that his good form, combined with the interest from other clubs, is cause for Leeds to offer his client a new deal. Neither the club nor the player have made any comments regarding this matter though, and Stracqualursi’s current deal runs until 2017.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

August 4, 2015

Leeds Shows Promise Despite Heavy Defeat to Barcelona

Leeds United lost their final preseason match against Barcelona at Elland Road earlier today. The 4-1 scoreline flattered the visitors, who had been matched by Leeds until injury saw the English outfit reduced to 10 men with 40 minutes to go.

Barcelona sent out a very strong 4-2-3-1 lineup, with Hugo Lloris in goal, and Gino Peruzzi, Alex Song, Gerard Pique, and Martin Montoya making up the back line. Sergio Busquets and Victor Wanyama took the holding roles, with Iniesta and Tello on the left and right wings respectively. Lewandowski, La Liga’s and Europe’s top goalscorer last season, led the line for the Spanish champions, with Fabregas playing in the hole behind him.

Leeds sent out their usual 4-1-3-2 lineup this preseason, with two changes. Yann Sommer started in goal, with Jack Hunt and Jaume Costa as wing backs. Scott Wootton replaced the injured Danny Batth alongside Craig Dawson in central defense. Christoph Kramer took the holding role, with Jon Williams, Rafal Wolski, and Guido Pizarro in central midfield. Paulo Dybala replaced the disappointing Luciano Vietto alongside Vellios up front.

Leeds came out of the gates firing on all cylinders, with Vellios playing a ball towards Jack Hunt on the right wing. The defender dribbled past Martin Montoya, who looked uncomfortable on the left, and put in a cross towards Paulo Dybala. The young striker sent out a fierce shot on the volley towards goal, but Pique stuck his leg out to deflect the shot for a corner kick.

Leeds had under 40% of possession, but were preventing Barcelona from creating opportunities, looking comfortable in their counterattacking style. 9 minutes into the game, Williams unleashed a long pass behind the defense, right onto the path of Apostollos Vellios. The Greek striker found himself with a golden chance to put Leeds ahead, but attempt at the far post was confidently saved by former Spurs’ keeper Lloris.

The resulting corner kick saw Leeds get a taste of their own medicine, with Iniesta’s clearance being latched onto by Lewandowski. The Polish ace dribbled past Jaume Costa and outpaced Jack Hunt, who were the two men Leeds had left behind defending, before putting a placed shot in the bottom corner past Yann Sommer.

Leeds kept having the better opportunities despite having much less of the possession, with Rafal Wolski rattling the crossbar from a free kick with 15 minutes on the clock. Vellios squandered an easy chance when Guido Pizarro found him with a through ball in the 20th minute, and in the 21st Vellios hit the post from a Hunt cross despite no one marking him.

Leeds looked the better team throughout the half and created chance after chance, but couldn’t seem to find a way past Lloris. Finally, in the 44th minute, Leeds finally found a way through with another fantastic piece of individual skill. Jaume Costa crossed the ball from the left towards Paulo Dybala, who chested it down, then cut inside with his first touch to lose his marker. Then, finding himself with only the keeper to beat from a tight angle, threaded the ball into the bottom far post corner to equalize the game.

Despite Paulo Dybala’s fantastic equalizer, he was still subbed out at halftime along with most of the team, except Wolski, Dawson, and Wootton. Tom Lees made yet another appearance at right back.

3 minutes into the second half, it looked like Leeds would continue their dominance, with Denis Stracqualursi playing a beautiful ball to Luciano Vietto. The misfiring striker used his dribbling skill to beat Pique, then managed to dribble past goalkeeper Hugo Lloris who had come out to tighten the angle. With the whole goal at his mercy, Vietto still somehow managed to miss the wide open goal.

Things only got worse for Leeds from that point on, with Tom Lees being stretchered out in the 51st minute. With no subs left, anchor man Adam Vass was asked to fill in at the right back slot. This coincided with the introduction of Messi as a left winger for Barcelona, who ran rings around Vass for the remainder of the game.

Barcelona immediately asserted a heavy dominance over the game, with Leeds just trying to soak up as much pressure as possible. However, the deadlock was broken due to a defensive mistake from Leeds, rather than individual skill from Barcelona. In the 59th minute, what should have been a routine clearance from a corner kick went horribly wrong as Craig Dawson jumped but missed his header. This left Pique with a simple tap in to put Barcelona ahead. 7 minutes later, in another corner kick, Alex Song got away from Craig Dawson and put in Barcelona’s third with a simple header.

It looked like Barcelona were happy with that scoreline, and the game slowed down to a training pace for the final 25 minutes of the game. With 8 minutes to go, Messi brought the game back to life with an exquisite dribble past three of Leeds’ defenders before putting in a through ball for Lewandowski. The polish striker then cut the ball across the box as Ross Turnbull came out to tighten the angle, leaving Iniesta to score the fourth with an easy finish.

4.8.2015

Friendly

Leeds 1 – Dybala (44), Lees (inj. 51)

Barcelona 4 – Lewandowski (10), Pique (59), Song (66), Iniesta (82)

Man of the Match – Andres Iniesta

Leeds were definitely the better team for the first 50 minutes of the game, though poor finishing prevented them from going ahead during this period. Tom Lees’ injury effectively ended the game as a contest, though Craig Dawson, not numerical disadvantage, was the cause of Barcelona’s second and third goals. This is not the first time in preseason that Craig Dawson has made defensive mistakes, and questions remain regarding his ability to perform against Europe’s elite. Paulo Dybala had yet another sublime finish against a world class keeper, alleviating concerns about Leeds’ goalscoring capabilities. Scott Wootton was another player that impressed. The former Manchester United player showed great defensive capabilities, and tried to cover for Dawson’s deficiencies as best as he could.

[carlosisonfire]

Sunday August 9th, 2015

Everton Come From a Goal and a Man Down to Win Community Shield

Everton continued their winning ways under Fernando Sampedro today as they retained the Community Shield against Chelsea despite having captain Michael Bradley sent off in the first half.

Chelsea started the first half dominating the current champions, but despite new signing Yarmolenko’s pinpoint deliveries from the left wing, striker Benteke was unable to direct any of his headers on target.

Things got significantly more difficult when Michael Bradley got sent off in the 28th minute after a poor tackle on Ramires, causing Everton to switch to a shaky 4-4-1. The next few minutes were nervy, as Chelsea carved everton open a number of times, but were unable to find the back of the net. In the 34th minute, Ross Barkley had to be stretchered off with a hamstring injury, causing Sampedro to introduce Juraj Kucka to play alongside Alfred N’Diaye in midfield. The defensive minded substitution seemed to work, with the first half ending still tied at nil.

In the second half, Chelsea came out with hunger in their eyes and a level of energy not matched by Everton. Their heightened efforts saw them finally find the breakthrough from debutant Yarmolenko. The excellent Ukrainian dribbled past Seamus Coleman yet again, and put a cross into the far post towards Benteke. The big Belgian headed the ball right at the keeper Akinfeev, who easily turned it away. The rebound fell straight to Yarmolenko, who had continued his run into the box, and was left with a simple tap in to put Chelsea ahead in the 58th minute.

Things went from bad to worse for Everton, as Josue had to be replaced due to injury three minutes later. New signing Tedor Nedelev was introduced in his stead, who was signed from Mainz after Yacine Brahimi broke his ankle during preseason.

Nedelev’s introduction proved to be game changing, with the left winger being a constant threat, playing incisive balls behind the defense. The Bulgarian’s fantastic vision played two through balls in behind the defense, positioned perfectly to intercept Andreas Cornelius’ runs. The Danish striker would outpace experienced striker on both occasions to find himself one on one with Thibaut Courtouis, before cooly placing the ball into the bottom left corner. The two goals were carbon copies of each other, levelling the game at the 68th minute, and putting Everton ahead in the 75th.

At the other end, Yarmolenko kept creating chances on the wing, but Everton center backs Alberto and John Stones managed to clear most of them easily. The ones that they didn’t fell to Benteke for mostly easy finishes, but the striker squandered every chance presented to him.

Everton secure a massive and emotional comeback victory over Chelsea, who had the better chances and by all rights should have won the game.

9.8.2015

Community Shield

Everton 2 – Bradley (sent off 28), Barkley (inj. 34), Josue (inj. 61), Cornelius (68, 75)

Chelsea 1 – Yarmolenko (58)

Man of the Match – Andreas Cornelius

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday August 10th, 2015

Leeds Announce Link with Sigma Olomouc

The Leeds management was happy to annouce a link with Czech club Sigma Olomouc, which will see them granted the first option to sign any player from this side.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday August 10th, 2015

Leeds United after Uchida

Atsuto Uchida’s agent has confirmed speculation that Leeds United are currently in contract negotiations with his client. The Japanese international right back was released by Schalke at the end of last season, despite both parties wanting a new deal. Uchida reportedly was asking a five year deal at more than double his old salary, which Schalke was not prepared to offer the 27 year old.

Uchida was a key part of the 2013/2014 campaign which saw Schalke win league on the final day, as well as the Champions League in a memorable final against Bayern. During 2014/2015, Uchida split time with new signing Allan Nyom, but they both disappointed and were displaced when Lukasz Piszczek joined on loan from Dortmund. When Piszczek’s loan was extended for another year, Uchida’s chances for a new deal dissipated and saw him released.

Leeds are in dire need of a right back due to Sam Byram’s long term injury, leaving Jack Hunt as the only senior player capable of playing in that position.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday August 12th, 2015

Leeds sign youngster Janos

Leeds United have confirmed the signing of Sigma Olomouc’s 16 year old left back Ales Janos for a reported 500k today. Many have pointed out the deficiencies in the left back area that Leeds currently have, but they have failed to address these so far during the transfer window due to a lack of funds. Janos has been touted as a long term replacement for left back, but it doesn’t address the immediate problem that the club currently has in that position.

Leeds announced a link with the club only a few days ago, and supporters are keen to see whether the deal will reap dividends.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday August 13th, 2015

Uchida Snubs Leeds, Cites Poor Wage Offer

Leeds fans had been excited after Uchida’s agent confirmed ongoing contract negotiations with Leeds United, but after two days the talks have broken down. Uchida, whose Schalke deal was not extended due to a disagreement over the player’s requested wages, stated that Leeds’ contract offer was not satisfactory.

An anonymous source within Leeds has revealed that the player was requesting a 1.2m loyalty bonus, with the agent asking for a 1m fee, that the club were willing to pay. Unfortunately, the 58k per week wage was not something that Uchida was willing to negotiate, causing the deal to fall apart. Leeds were forced to sell striker Esmael Goncalves after a similar situation, which saw the club unable to match the wages requested by the Portuguese forward. While Leeds may be playing in the Champion’s League this season and are bringing top talent to the negotiating table, they lack the financial clout to sign reputable players.

[carlosisonfire]

So I'm going to be making pretty detailed match previews. As they go on, they'll focus less on Leeds since they're covered all the time and focus more on the opposition's form/players/etc

Friday August 14th, 2015

Van Basten says “Leeds lack experience”

During a pre-match press conference ahead of Tottenham’s trip to Elland road for their first Premier League game, Spurs boss Marco van Basten made remarks about Leeds’ chances for success.

“They lack experience at the highest level, I think that they will struggle to compete not only in the Champions League, but also in the Premier League.”

“Teams will take them more seriously now. They will not be allowed to sit back and play on the counter, and their deficiencies will show.”

The Dutch manager is optimistic for his team’s chances to qualify for the Champions League this season despite selling star playmaker Christian Eriksen to Manchester City

The arrival of Andrew Ayew from Manchester City, coupled with the signings of Chris Smalling and Danny Welbeck from Manchester United, have concluded a busy summer for Spurs. Despite losing Eriksen, they’ve secured long term replacement for their ageing backline of Kaboul and Dawson, solved their troublesome left wing weakness with Ayew, and brought in Welbeck to start over Soldado and Adebayor, who had a poor season and are out on long term injuries.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday August 15th, 2015

Leeds v Tottenham Match Preview

Today’s featured match is between last season’s third place surprise package Leeds United and 5th placed Tottenham, who missed out on the Champions League by 1 point. Tottenham have strengthened key positions with the funds from Christian Eriksen’s sale, while Leeds have made numerous signings across the pitch. The likes of Cristoph Kramer, Casemiro, and Guido Pizarro are fantastic captures for the club, while Rafal Wolski’s loan move from Fiorentina was made permanent. Despite the positives, doubt whether Craig Dawson and Luciano Vietto are suited for the highest level of play.

Leeds 4-1-3-2

GK – Yann Sommer ©

DR – Jack Hunt

DC – Scott Wootton

DC – Craig Dawson

DL – Jaume Costa

DM – Christoph Kramer

MC – Jon Williams

MC – Rafal Wolski

MC – Guido Pizarro

ST – Denis Stracqualursi

ST – Paulo Dybala

S1 – Ross Turnbull

S2 – Jesse Agnew

S3 – Danny Batth

S4 – Casemiro

S5 – Victor Perez

S6 – Luciano Vietto

S7 – Apostolos Vellios

Craig Dawson, despite being unconvincing in preseason, gets the nod over Danny Batth who is not 100% fit after recovering from an injury.

Jaume Costa has been criticized for his poor delivery of crosses and defensive lapses, but he has performed better than Carles Planas, his competition. Combined with the unconvincing Dawson, the left side of the defense could prove to be the soft underbelly of Leeds.

Rafal Wolski gets selected over Victor Perez, who missed the preseason with an injury. Wolski started off very poorly in the friendlies, but improved as the games progressed and now looks comfortable getting further forward.

Denis Stracqualursi is handed a starting spot over Vellios after putting in good performances in the preseason. There is speculation surrounding the striker’s future at Leeds. Despite Miles’ strong stance regarding the Argentine’s availability, reports are that Villa could be preparing a 5m bid for the striker.

Paulo Dybala was signed with the funds recouped from Goncalves’ sale, but missed the opening three friendlies with injury. After an unimpressive season in Italy with Palermo, fans doubted he could make up Goncalves’ 16 goals last season, but his performances against Juventus and Barcelona have changed those views. He brings a cutting edge to Leeds’ forward line, and is certainly their key man in this encounter.

17 year old right back Jesse Agnew gets a spot on the bench due to Leeds injury problems. With second choice right back Sam Byram out for 5 months and third choice Tom Lees out for another week, the England u19 starlet suddenly finds himself on the brink of breaking into the first team. Many doubt that he is ready, but he surely will get his chance to prove himself over the coming months.

Leeds will most likely have to withstand pressure from Tottenham, playing their preferred style on the break. Dybala will have to show he can perform in competitive matches, while Planas and Dawson are certainly the weak links of the side. Yann Sommer will most likely be called on to cover for their deficiencies. This match is key for Leeds, who have to show that last season was not a fluke and that they are here to stay in the top 4. A victory against perennial Champions League hopefuls Tottenham is just what they need to make a statement.

Tottenham 4-3-3

GK – Victor Valdes

DR – Chris Smalling

DC – Younes Kaboul

DC – Neven Subotic

DL – Danny Rose

DM – Sandro

MC – Moussa Dembele

MC – Paulinho ©

AMR – Erik Lamela

AML – Andre Ayew

ST – Danny Welbeck

S1 – Ian Curry

S2 – Michael Dawson

S3 – Jan Vertonghen

S4 – Aaron Lennon

S5 – Jermain Defoe

S6 – Kevin Stewart

S7 – Thomas Carroll

Victor Valdes has publicly declared he wants to leave White Hart Lane in search of Champions League football. The Spanish keeper has been left than happy after joining Spurs last season on a free from Barcelona as Hugo Lloris joined the Catalan giants for 20m. If he does indeed leave, Tottenham will be left with Gomes as the only senior goalkeeper, which most certainly will not end well.

Chris Smalling starts over the injured Kyle Walker, who will be out for 2 more weeks. The former Man Utd defender doesnt provide the same forward projection as Walker, but is more solid defensively. Leeds lack of wide players means that he will not be tested much though, and Walker’s attacking qualities will be missed.

Danny Rose is again first choice left back at Spurs, despite having a poor time last season. While he certainly has pace, average decision making and positioning coupled with his tendency to get forward have left Spurs exposed at the back. The lack of wide players for Leeds should somewhat play to Rose’s strengths.

Erik Lamela was Spurs’ most exciting player last year, and high caliber performances are again expected this season.

Andre Ayew takes over for the departed Christian Eriksen, though their roles will be different. Eriksen acted as a playmaker, drifting inside and laying on passes for Lamela or Soldado, while Ayew will operate as a winger, running down the line and putting crosses into the box.

Danny Welbeck faces a lot of pressure in his first season as a starter at any club. Soldado and Adebayor were disappointing last season, but achilles tendonitis and damaged cruciate ligaments suffered in preseason respectively have ruled them out for the whole season. Welbeck will have to perform, with only veteran striker Jermain Defoe to provide cover.

Tottenham’s team is looking relatively thin. The starting line up is strong, but they’ve been forced to sell players like Lewis Holtby, Sigurdsson, and Chiriches, who werent willing to sit on the bench of a team not in the Champions League. Injury has left them without Adebayor and Soldado for what looks like the entire season, while Kyle Walker and backup keeper Gomes should be back in a couple of weeks. Still, the midfield looks particularly week coming off the bench.

The fullbacks will be key in this match for Spurs as they look to exploit Leeds’ weak flanks. Smalling rarely goes forward, but Lamela should have a field day against the poor Jaume Costa. On the other side, Ayew and Rose are certain to overload the right wing, but could leave space exposed for Hunt to get forward.

Prediction

Leeds 1 – 2 Tottenham

Leeds had a great results last season when they were unknown, but other teams now understand their style and its weaknesses. While Tottenham certainly lack the depth to challenge effectively for fourth place considering they have to cope with Europa League football, this is the opening day and fatigue hasn’t set in yet.

The Tottenham starting squad is very strong, and Lamela should have an easy time with Costa on the left flank. That being said, I’m sure that Leeds will threaten, with Dybala particularly being a problem for the Spurs defense.

[carlosisonfire]

15.9.2015

Premier League

Leeds v Tottenham

Here we are at Elland Road, with Leeds United about to kick off against Tottenham Hotspur. Both sides want to qualify for the Champions League this season, but despite Leeds being in the title race until the final day and Spurs losing out on fourth place on the final day as well, various deficiencies with their squads have the bookies favoring neither to finish within the top four. This is the perfect moment for each team to show what their capable of against a direct rival in the chase for Europe’s elite competition.

0:00 – Leeds will kick off, with Dybala passing the ball to Stracqualursi. The Argentine striker plays it all the way back to Scott Wootton. Wootton goes wide to Hunt, who is now dribbling forward without a challenge from Ayew.

Hunt still forward, being met by Rose. Hunt passes inside for Wolski, who goes first time to the left for Williams. The Welshman dribbles past Paulinho, then passes to the left for Pizarro. Pizarro goes forward to Stracqualursi on the edge of the box, with his back to goal. Stracqualursi holds the ball from Subotic’s challenge then passes sideways to Dybala, who taps the ball first time behind Subotic.

Stracqualursi runs inside the box, has the ball, takes his shot! Oh, fantastic save from Victor Valdes, and fantastic move from Leeds. Within 30 seconds they have carved Spurs open and created a clear chance.

4:51 – Rafal Wolski takes the corner kick, but it is cleared by Smalling. Pizarro receives the ball outside the box, but finds himself with few options. Leeds are moving the ball around the midfield as Spurs reorganize after the corner kick. Pizarro again on the ball, short pass to Williams. Williams passes wide on the left to Wolski, who dribbles past Danny Rose. Sandro puts in a tackle, but Wolski skips over it. Wolski in the ball with only Valdes to beat, takes his SHOT! Wow, what a disaster of a finish from Rafal Wolski. Missing the frame completely, his manager cannot believe it.

11:07 – Sommer will take the goal kick short, passing it to Costa. Costa dribbles up the left, then goes center for Wootton. Wootton for Kramer, to Wolski, Williams, to Straqcualursi. Fantastic first touch football on display from Leeds United here. Straqcualursi back towards Wolski, but great tackle from Sandro to dispossess the midfielder.

Sandro to Smalling down the right. Smalling plays a long ball down the line towards Ayew, who has switched flanks with Lamela. Ayew receives the ball and dribbles easily past Costa then cuts inside. Ayew dribbling towards the center of the picth, pulling Kramer and Dawson with him. Ayew still running, then lobs the ball over Wootton, fantastic piece of skill. Lamela has run in behind the defense to latch onto the ball and chips it over Sommer to put Spurs ahead. What a delighful goal from Spurs, great skill on display from Lamela and Ayew.

13:34 – Costa will take the throw in, gives it to Pizarro. Pizarro goes across the field to Williams, who plays the ball first time in between Rose and Subotic. Straqcualursi times his run perfectly, finding himself against Valdes. Stracqualursi takes a touch to control it then shoots toward the far post’s top corner!. . .

AND AMAZING SAVE FROM VALDES. What an acrobatic display from the Spurs keeper to knock the shot wide. This is the third clear scoring opportunity presented to Leeds, who find themselves behind at home. They need to start converting their chances or they could find the game slipping away from them.

24:06 – Corner kick taken by Wolski, cleared by Subotic. The ball falls toward Craig Dawson, who plays it back toward the penalty spot. Williams is there, takes a shot, but its blocked. The rebound falls to Pizarro, who shoots, but blocked again. Smalling latches onto the ball and hoofs it upfield.

Andre Ayew latches onto the ball and runs upfield. It’s a 1v2, with Ayew facing Jack Hunt and Jaume Costa. Ayew chooses to take on Costa, easily avoiding his challenge, and it’s off to the races for Ayew. Jack Hunt is chasing him, makes up the ground, and oh what an inch perfect tackle from Jack Hunt. Fantastic defensive play from Hunt, covering for Costa’s poor defensive work.

26:23 – Lamela will take the corner kick, finds Welbeck unmarked at the near post, but Welbeck’s finish leaves a lot to be desired, nodding it well wide.

29:01 – Lamela will take this free kick on the right edge of the box. Lamela puts in the cross. . .

And finds Sandro, who has outjumped Craig Dawson. Sandro powers a header towards goal, past the reach of Sommer. . . AND IT STRIKES THE POST! Oooooh, what a close call for Leeds United, Sandro only inches away from doubling Spurs’ lead. Poor defending from Craig Dawson.

HALF TIME

A frustrating game for Leeds United, who had the better chances but lacked the killer instinct to put Spurs to the sword. A delightful show of skill from Ayew and Lamela allowed the latter to open the north London outfit’s account, and almost assisted in the second when Sandro went close. Spurs are pushing down the right, and Costa seems powerless to stop either Ayew or Lamela, who have zero support from Chris Smalling. Spurs need to just keep doing what they’re doing and drive the win home. They don’t have any options on the bench, but they are playing well and don’t have to make obvious changes.

On Leeds’ part, they need to get it together. Costa is an open door on the left, which makes Miles’ selection strange. Last season he would always include Planas or Costa on the bench, depending on who started, to sub out the starter if he underperformed. Well Costa is having a poor showing today, but Agnew has taken the place of Planas on the bench. Agnew is only comfortable playing on the right, which means Costa will most likely see the game out.

Stracqualursi has missed two clear chances, while Wolski has missed one. Dybala had a fantastic through ball on the first play of the game, but has barely had a touch since. Vellios is surely being considered to replace the wasteful Stracqualursi, but Victor Perez is not completely fit, and is a question mark to replace Wolski. One thing is for sure, Leeds need to do something about their poor defending and their poor finishing, or this game could get worse.

[carlosisonfire]

45:00 – Leeds will make a substitution, with Apostolos Vellios replacing the poor Denis Stracqualursi. The Argentine has squandered Leeds’ two best chances during the match, and a change was needed up front. Miles is certainly hoping that Vellios create service for Dybala, who has been a non factor so far. Spurs are unchanged at the half.

56:49 – Leeds have been dominating so far during the second half, and have put on an impressive display of one touch football. Still, they have been ineffective in breaking through Spurs, producing only shots from distance.

Smalling will take a throwing inside Leeds’ half, down the line for Welbeck. Welbeck goes back to Smalling, who passes center towards Paulinho. Wolski intercepts the pass, goes to Dybala, and the break is on for Leeds!

Dybala to Williams, who runs with the ball. Williams on the ball, dribbles past Lamela, past Ayew, who have run back to defend. Williams goes wide for Hunt. Hunt receives the ball then shows great pace to whizz past Rose. Hunt punts a wicked cross into the box towards Vellios. . .

But Kaboul beats the Greek striker, clearing with a strong header. The ball falls right oustide the box, where Pizarro lurks. Pizarro shoots on the volley TOWARDS THE TOP RIGHT CORNER, OHH WHAT A SHOT!! Amazing shot from Pizarro, nothing that Valdes could do about that. Leeds have equalized at home!

61:22 – Chris Smalling has the ball in an advanced position. The Spurs right back clearly looks uncomfortable with the ball at his feet, but is charging forward. Up comes Costa with the challenge. . . and completely fails to disposses Smalling. Smalling now running free, gets to the byline, cuts it back towards Dembele, who is unmarked in the box. The Belgian takes a first time shot and gets a great reaction save from Yann Sommer. The goalkeeper is seen giving Costa a stern talking to, clearly not happy with his defending.

70:40 – Leeds will take this opportunity to make a double substitution. Victor Perez, who is not completely fit, is replacing Rafal Wolski in the center of the pitch. Luciano Vietto, who had a disappointing preseason, is coming on for Dybala, who has been completely phased out of the game by Spurs’ defense.

75:32 – Double substitution from Tottenham, as van Basten looks to regain control of the match. Jermain Defoe comes on for Welbeck, who hasn’t threatened Leeds at all this game. At the other end of the pitch, Vertonghen replaces Kaboul at center back, whose poor clearance set up Pizarro’s equalizer.

78:42 – Danny Rose takes a throw in near the corner flag into the box. Defoe controls it with his chest, then plays it near the corner flag to Paulinho. The Spurs captain puts a cross in for Smalling, who heads the ball to the right edge of the box where Lamela stands free. The Tottenham ace takes a shot on the volley towards the top corner of the near post . . .

AND YANN SOMMER IS THERE! The Swiss stopper made his away across the goal to deflect the ball with this finger tips. Amazing save from Sommer to keep Leeds in the game.

88:38 – Victor Perez will take the corner kick, putting the ball into the six yard box. A goal line scramble ensues, anything could happen with all those bodies in there, but Danny Rose finally clears the ball. . .

Towards the penalty spot, where Luciano Vietto is waiting unmarked. The young striker puts in a powerful shot towards the goal AND LEES ARE AHEAD! Vietto shrugs off the preseason criticism and comes off the bench to score a late goal for Leeds, handing them the lead. Danny Rose cannot believe it, he is laying on the pitch holding his head. What a comeback from Leeds.

93:08 – and that’s it! The referee blows the final whistle, as Elland Road erupts in cheers. Leeds record a very important victory over Tottenham on the opening day of the season, despite Lamela’s exquisite chipped goal.

15.9.2015

Premier League

Leeds 2 – Pizarro (58), Vietto (89)

Tottenham 1 – Lamela (12)

Man of the Match – Erik Lamela

Leeds United played fantastic first touch football, and clearly looked comfortable in possession, proving most critics who say they are a one dimensional counter attacking team wrong. They created the best chances of the game with their smooth passing moves, but were denied by a combination of Victor Valdes and poor finishing. Ultimately, their goals came from volleys after poor clearances from Tottenham, but they showed they can create opportunities as well. A strong opening from Leeds, showing they have the quality to repeat last year’s feat. Jaume Costa was exceedingly bad on the left of defense though, and Carles Planas has proven he cannot do any better. This issue will certainly be exploited by better teams, which could prove costly for the Elland Road outfit as the season progresses.

Erik Lamela had a field day with Jaume Costa on the right, but the instructions to switch with Andre Ayew seemed conflicting. Ayew dribbled past Costa just as easily, but found himself cutting inside towards the clutter in the middle of the pitch due to being left footed. While Spurs’ goal came from Ayew beating three opponents en route to lobbing the ball over the back line for Lamela, most other times he simply was dispossessed when cutting inside.

Smalling was unable to exploit Costa’s glaring weaknesses, though he did put in one very good cross. On the left side for spurs, concerns arose over Ayew’s and Lamela’s refusal to track back when Jack Hunt pushed forward. Rose’s defensive deficiencies were glaring, as he failed to stop Hunt time and time again. He surely could have used some help from his wingers. Finally, up front, Welbeck was a non factor. He lacked the physicality to challenge the Leeds defense in the air, and no balls were attempted behind the defense to exploit his pace. He was ultimately replaced by Defoe, who is a similar player and was equally ineffective.

Tottenham were clearly struggling in the second half, but the likes of Aaron Lennon, Thomas Carrol, and Jermain Defoe are unlikely to change the outcome of a game.

[carlosisonfire]

Sorry about the delay between posts, didn't have access to my main computer for the past week.

Sunday August 16th, 2015

Reading Make Planas Bid

Reading have made a 1.4m offer for Leeds United’s left back Carles Planas. The Spanish defender split time evenly with Costa last season, with both player’s failing to impress. It is unlikely that Leeds will sell him, following Costa’s calamitous performance yesterday against Spurs.

Reading are looking to sign Planas as cover for 21 year old James Husband, who put in an impressive performance in Reading’s 0-0 draw at Old Trafford yesterday. Planas is unlikely to swap what is currently a rotation role at Leeds for a clear back up position at Reading.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunday August 16th, 2015

Planas Demands New Deal

Leeds left back Carles Planas as yet again made public demands for a new contract, despite the clubs already ruling out a new deal last month. Planas’ has taken the club’s refusal to sell him to Reading to renew his complaints about his current contract, though it still remains highly unlikely that Leeds will succumb to his demands.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday August 17th, 2015

Murru Refuses to Join Leeds

Nicola Murru has stunned the press by stating he has turned down the chance to join Leeds United on loan. There had been no reports that a deal had been in place, but apparently an offer had been fielded from Leeds and accepted by Schalke.

The 20 year old Italian full back, who plays on the left but is also comfortable on the right, joined Schalke this summer from Cagliari for 6.5m. Murru has preferred to stay at Schalke and compete with Eugenio Mena and Santiago Garcia for the starting left back role. Murru would certainly have been a key player for Leeds, easily displacing Costa and Planas, as well as providing cover on the right for Hunt.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday August 19th, 2015

Man Utd Struggle to Draw in Champions League Playoff

A tough draw in the Champions League saw United matched against Sevilla in the playoffs, with the first leg played at the Sanchez-Pijuan. French striker Kevin Gameiro handed Sevilla the lead in the 31st minute after outpacing veteran defender Vidic. United looked second best throughout the match, and it was no surprise when Vicente Iborra, linked with a potential move to Everton, doubled Sevilla’s lead in the 59th minute.

What was looking to be a grim result and potential elimination for United completely turned around when Sevilla right winger Emilio Nsue was sent off for a heinous tackle on Leighton Baines with 72 minutes on the clock. Sevilla switched to a 4-3-2 shape which gave away the flanks, and it was no surprise when wingers Kagawa and Young scored in the 78th and 84th minute respectively for the English outfit. United are in pole position to qualify with the two away goals they have scored, but concerns remain regarding the ease with which Sevilla carved them open.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday August 20th, 2015

Consortium Targets Leeds Takeover

Amidst reports that Chairman Salah Nooruddin is looking to sell the club, reports have arisen regarding a consortium of businessmen looking to purchase Leeds. United’s recent performances have been nothing short of phenomenal, considering how the entire squad’s weekly wages are just about what Cristiano Ronaldo makes.

Leeds have missed out on transfer targets due to an inability to offer high wages or match other clubs’ bids. While the consortium surely will inject money into the side, a concrete bid is weeks away, meaning Leeds will have to do with its current squad.

[carlosisonfire]

Saturday August 22nd, 2015

Q.P.R. v Leeds Match Preview

Leeds make the trip to Loftus Road and are widely expected to pile on the misery for the newly promoted Rs. Glenn Hoddle’s men have had a tough start to the league, heavily losing 3-0 to Wigan, who was promoted with them, on the opening weekend. Then on Wednesday, they had to travel to Goodison Park to face Everton, who inflicted yet another 3-0 defeat, courtesy of Dane Andreas Cornelius. With Leeds coming to visit for Q.P.R.’s first home fixture of the season, many are expecting Q.P.R. to remain on 0 points after three games.

Glenn Hoddle has strengthened his team this year by signing two players from relegated Norwich City. Striker Ricky Van Wolfswinkel and American midfielder Bradley Johnson joined for a combined 5.7m, but both have been disappointing so far. It doesn’t help that their top goalscorer in the Championship, Charlier Austin, is unavailable due to injury. Rangers’ Danny Wilson has joined for 1.4m as a starting defender, but has been at fault for three of the 6 goals that his team has conceded so far.

Leeds impressed with their comeback victory over Spurs last week, though they could and should have scored more. Luciano Vietto impressed off the bench, and Danny Batth and Victor Perez are fully fit after being unable to start the first game. Leeds should be more than strong enough to take the victory.

Q.P.R. 4-4-2

GK – Robert Green

DR – Danny Simpson

DC – Ryan McGowan

DC – Danny Wilson

DL – Yoon Seok-Young

MR – Banel Nicolita

MC – Gary O’Neil ©

MC – Samba Diakite

ML – Bradley Johnson

ST – Danny Graham

ST – Adel Taraabt

S1 – Jamal Blackman

S2 – Ryan Gauld

S3 – Stephan Mbia

S4 – Ricky van Wolfswinkel

S5 – Nedum Onuoha

S6 – Alex Harris

S7 – Alejandro Faurlin

Danny Wilson has looked particularly poor so far, and will have to step up his game. Leeds have been poor finishing their chances in the preseason and against Spurs, so his mistakes might be covered up.

Banel Nicolita will be on the right wing, facing the notorious weak left flank of Leeds. His performance will be key if Q.P.R. are looking to get anything from the game.

Bradley Johnson is considered more of a defensive minded midfielder than a winger. This shows that Hoddle respects Jack Hunt’s forward runs, and has surely instructed the American international to follow his man back. Ayew’s lack of defensive discipline allowed Hunt to play a big part in Leeds’ equalizer last week; Johnson seems like he was included just for this reason.

Danny Graham scored 10 goals for Hull City in the Premier League 2 years ago, and scored 20 in the second tier last season. With Charlie Austin out, Graham will need to convert the few chances that come his way.

Ryan Gauld is a young Scottish winger on loan from Arsenal, and touted as a bright star for the future. If Hoddle feels he needs to chase the game, he will most likely replace the defensive minded Johnson.

Leeds 4-1-3-2

GK – Yann Sommer ©

DR – Jack Hunt

DC – Scott Wootton

DC – Danny Batth

DL – Carles Planas

DM – Christoph Kramer

MC – Jon Williams

MC – Victor Perez

MC – Guido Pizarro

ST – Apostolos Vellios

ST – Luciano Vietto

S1 – Ross Turnbull

S2 – Craig Dawson

S3 – Jaume Costa

S4 – Casemiro

S5 – Rafal Wolski

S6 – Paulo Dybala

S7 – Denis Stracqualursi

Danny Batth replaces Dawson, who has been less than exemplary when defending set pieces.

Carles Planas comes on for Costa, who had a torrid game against Tottenham. Planas hasn’t performed much better for Leeds than his compatriot though, and this remains their most vulnerable area.

Victor Perez returns to the starting lineup over Wolski, who missed a sitter last week. The Spaniard missed the entire preseason with injury, and doubts linger over his fitness.

Apostolos Vellios comes on for Stracqualursi, who missed two golden chances last week. The Greek is expected to play a support role.

Luciano Vietto, much maligned during the preseason, earns his first competitive start after scoring a late winner last week.

Jaume Costa is included on the bench over Jesse Agnew. Miles has reverted to including a left back on the bench, which he did for much of last season, in case his starter has a torrid game. Last week, Costa put in a torrid performance but Miles didn’t include any replacement for him in the bench, causing him to finish the game.

Prediction

Q.P.R. 0 – 2 Leeds

Leeds should take an easy victory over Q.P.R. today, as Hoddle’s men haven’t looked sharp at all in their opening two fixtures. Leeds are still tinkering with their forward line, but Q.P.R.’s defense has been nothing short of terrible, and no matter who Leeds field they should create plenty of chances. The Rs will certainly try to exploit the flanks, but Batth’s return to the starting line up should be enough to cover for Planas’ deficiencies against Nicolita.

[carlosisonfire]

22.9.2015

Premier League

Q.P.R. (20th, 0-0-2) v Leeds (8th, 1-0-0)

0:00 – Welcome to Loftus Road, where Q.P.R. hope to put a better performance against Leeds United. The Rs have sent out a rather defensive line up, hoping to soak up pressure and deny Leeds their preferred counter attacking game.

8:14 – Scott Wootton with the ball at the halfway line, goes wide to the right for Williams. The Welshman, marked by Johnson, plays it down the line for Hunt. Hunt receives the ball, then dribbles easily past Yoon. Hunt near the edge of the box, cuts inside past Wilson’s challenge, then shoots. . .

. . . and hits the post! Only a few inches to the left and it would’ve been a fantastic opener from Jack Hunt. Tries to place it in the top far corner but his shot was met by the upright. Rob Green just stood and watched, unable to reach the ball.

10:16 – Contrary to pre-match expectations, Q.P.R. are taking the game to Leeds. They’re pushing forward and dominating possession. Yoon Seok-Young and Bradley Johnson combine to get past Hunt, with the korean putting in a cross. Graham receives the ball inside the box, but shoots it well wide.

12:24 – Nicolita finds himself on the left flank, cuts inside and lays it of for Diakite. Diakite is pulling Kramer towards him, and passes the ball forward for Taraabt. The former Spurs player has dragged both Wootton and Batth towards him, and plays a clean through ball into space for Graham. Graham unmarked, takes his shot low . . .

. . . and is met by Yann Sommer’s legs. Great save from Sommer to keep the scoreline at 0.

15:42 – Williams has the ball inside Q.P.R.’s territory, goes wide for Hunt. Hunt skips past Johnson and finds himself in front of Yoon. Hunt chooses to play the ball past Yoon towards Vellios, who finds himself inside the box near the right edge. Vellios opts to shoot from a tight angle rather cut it back for Vietto, drawing an exasperated look from the Argentine forward.

29:30 - Victor Perez takes the corner kick towards the 6 yard box. Batth looks set to receive it, outjumps Wilson, BUT IT HITS THE POST! A free header from Batth, who holds his head in his hands. Wilson failed to cover his man, but luckily Batth’s header was not accurate enough.

41:36 – Yoon down the line for Nicolita, who has made the left wing his home. Nicolita hits a first time early cross to the other flank. Carles Planas is out of position, leaving Bradley Johnson completely alone. Johnson hits the ball on the volley. . . BUT SOMMER IS THERE! Great save from Sommer, who is having a stern discussion with Planas. A clear chance for Johnson, who doesn’t look happy with himself.

45:15 – Williams has the ball down the right, plays it between Yoon and Wilson into space. Vellios gets behind Wilson and takes a shot from a tight angle, but Green is there with the easy save. This is Leeds’ first shot on target during the entire first half.

Halftime

An even game so far, though Q.P.R. by far have had the better chances. Graham and Johnson have wasted golden opportunities, but there are no better finishers on the bench. An interesting choice from Hoddle to field his one true wide player Nicolita on the left instead of on the right to take advantage of Planas, but it has worked out well so far, with the Romanian taking part in creating both of Q.P.R.’s clear chances.

Leeds have been poor with their passes, and poor in their final third decision making. Particularly disappointing has been Vellios, who has taken poor shots when a pass was the better option. Stracqualursi is certainly an option that Miles will consider. Planas looks uncomfortable on the left, and has clearly been the worst player on the pitch, though Miles won’t necessarily take him ouot

45:00 – Leeds kick off the second half, with both teams making changes. Wolski replaces Perez for Leeds, as the Spaniard wasn’t deemed fit enough to last the full 90, while Q.P.R. introduce van Wolfswinkel for Johnson. Taarabt has slotted on the right wing, with the Dutch striker up front besides Graham.

59:31 – Planas takes a throw in within Leeds’ own half towards Pizarro in the center. Pizarro goes further right for Wolski, who quickly plays it forward for Vellios. Vellios plays it forward to Vietto, who controls it then goes back to Vellios on the edge of the box. Vellios has two men on him, but plays the ball into space behind them. Vietto latches onto the ball near the penalty spot, lines up his shot. . .

. . . AND IT GOES WIDE! Oh, what a disastrous finish from Vietto. His manager has immediately signaled for a sub, with Dybala getting ready to replace him.

61:28 – Danny Simpson with the ball near the midfield line, hoofs it down the right flank. Danny Graham has made a run, and has beat Carles Planas to the ball! Graham cuts it back to Taraabt, who plays it left for O’Neil. The midfielder shoots towards the bottom right corner. . .

. . . BUT SOMMER Saves! Sommer drops down low, deflecting the shot. The rebound falls to Graham on the right edge of the box, and he cuts it back first time towards Taraabt again. The Moroccan takes his shot towards the far post. . .

. . . AND SOMMER SOMEHOW MAKES IT ACROSS! The stuff of dreams from Yann Sommer, making his way across the goal to make back to back saves, tipping the ball out for a corner with his fingertips.

63:09 – Samba Diakite is heading off the pitch for the Rs, replaced by Mbia in a like for like substitution. Sommer will take a goal kick, plays it short to Hunt. Hunt goes to the center for Williams. Williams back to Kramer. The German weighs his options and passes it long for Vellios up front. Vellios goes left for Planas, Planas immediately passes it back for Pizarro. Pizarro right for Williams. Williams passes it towards the half moon for Wolski. Wolski goes wide first-time for Hunt. Hunt controls it near the by line with his first touch, cuts inside to dribble past Yoon with his second, then crosses it to the far post with is third touch. Danny Wilson is nowhere to be found as the ball makes its way toward Vellios, who is left with an easy header to open the scoring. Poor defending from Wilson, handing Leeds the lead with 64 minutes on the clock.

64:13 – Leeds make a substitution before the kickoff, replacing the woeful Planas with Jaume Costa. This is Leeds’ third and final substitution as they try to hold on to their slim lead.

65:42 – Corner kick taken by McGowan, towards the near post. Van Wolfswinkel jumps for the ball, but Sommer punches it towards the penalty spot. Stephane Mbia is there unmarked though, and the Cameroon international powers a shot towards the far post. . .

. . . BUT JACK HUNT CLEARS IT OFF THE LINE WITH A DIVING HEADER! Glenn Hoddle cannot believe it! It looked like a certain equalizer, but Jack Hunt somehow made it to the ball.

75:04 – Guido Pizarro has fallen to the ground after attempting a sprint, and he is signaling to the bench that he cannot continue. Leeds have no more substitutions left, and will be forced to finish the game with 10 men. Miles has instructed his team to not alter the shape, remaining in a 4-1-2-2 formation.

79:11 – Wolski will take the corner kick towards the near post, where Danny Batth is lurking. The center back chests it down, then cuts it back towards the penalty spot where Dybala lurks. The Polish striker takes a first time shot towards the bottom far corner. . .

. . . AND IT’S IN! PAULO DYBALA DOUBLES LEEDS’ LEAD! Fantastic prepared set piece play from Leeds, who scored a similar goal against Tottenham last week. Despite having only ten men, Leeds have clawed themselves ahead in the scoreline. Batth was left completely alone, with Danny Wilson failing to mark him.

80:04 – before the kickoff, Hoddle introduces Nedum Onuoha in replacement of Danny Wilson, who has been at fault in both of Leeds’ goals.

85:32 – Yoon has the ball on the left wing, near the box. Hunt comes up for the challenge, but Yoon quickly passes inside the box to Nicolita, who has made a run without anyone tracking back. Nicolita takes a shot, but its right at Sommer’s hands.

90:38 – Nicolita receives the ball wide on the right, just inside Leeds’ half. Costa comes up to challenge, but Nicolita evades the tackle and he’s off to the races. Kramer goes wide to try to stop him, but Nicolita immediately passes inside for Mbia. Mbia plays a first time cross towards Taarabt, who is in the box towards the left side. Taraabt takes a first time shot low towards the far post. . .

. . . AND SOMMER IS THERE WITH THE SAVE! Sommer manages to turn the shot wide, but its fallen right to Nicolita, who has continued his run into the box. The Romanian is facing a prone Sommer, and opts to take a simple shot high up into the near post, pulling one back for Q.P.R. It is surely too late for a rally though.

93:12 – and the final whistle blows! Leeds have maintained possession since the kick off, seeing out the game despite Q.P.R.’s attempts to press and recover the ball. Leeds take a narrow victory in a narrow game that could have gone either way. Credit must go to Yann Sommer, who made numerous key saves to prevent the Rs from taking any points.

22.9.2015

Premier League

Q.P.R. 1 – Nicolita (91)

Leeds 2 – Vellios (64), Pizzarro (inj. 75), Dybala (80)

Man of the Match – Banel Nicolita

Leeds United take the victory at Loftus road, but it was way closer than they would have liked. Carles Planas was awful to say the least, but Costa was barely better. Vietto missed the only clear chance created by Leeds, with ability to finish chances being called under question again. Vellios scored from a header and Dybala doubled the lead with a shot from the penalty spot after a corner – a very similar goal to the winner against Spurs. Both goals were due to mistakes from Danny Wilson rather than plays created by Leeds though, and they will have to improve in the final third.

Q.P.R. looked alright for the most part, but were let down by both Danny Graham’s poor finishing as well as Danny Wilson’s criminal defending. It is a wonder that Wilson was allowed to remain so long on the pitch, with the backline looking much more solid once Onuoha was subbed in. Nicolita looked to be on a different level than everyone else on the pitch though, which is certainly a positive for the Rs. Whether on the right or left, the winger made fantastic runs and got past his opponets – whether by dribbling or intelligent off the ball movement. Yoon Seok-Young also had a very good game at right back. Q.P.R. have shown that they have what it takes to be competitive and could stay up, as long as Danny Wilson stops gifting chances to the opposition.

[carlosisonfire]

Sunday August 23rd, 2015

Premier League Roundup

There weren’t very many surprising results on the second round of Premier League fixtures, but good entertainment all around.

Manchester United, fueled by an unhappy Moyes after their result against Sevilla in the midweek, smashed Cardiff City at the Millenium Stadium. Goals from Candreva either side of half time with a Rooney effort in between sealed the 3-0 victory for the Red Devils

At Loftus Road, the R’s were disappointing going forward against a shaky Leeds United, leading to a 2-1 victory for Leeds. Banel Nicolita put in a fantastic shift for Q.P.R., but it wasn’t enough for Glenn Hoddle’s side.

Fulham were unable to contain fellow relegation candidates Aston Villa at Craven Cottage, managing only 36% of the possession. Villa simply did not know what to do with the ball though, and relied on Libor Kozak to head it in after a corner kick in the 48th minute to secure the three points.

Manchester City demolished Crystal Palace at the Etihad, scoring four goals in the first half courtesy of Dzeko, Silva, Shaqiri, and Toure. City took their foot off the pedal in the second half, cruising to the 4-0 victory. Esmael Goncalves looked frustrated with his teammates, and many are wondering if he made the right choice to trade the Champions League for a relegation scrap.

Arsenal needed a late goal from Giroud to be able to take a point away from the Britannia. Stoke scored off a Florenzi giveaway in a compromising position, allowing Altidore to set up Nicolaj Thomsen to score an easy finish. The game was a back and forth affair, with both teams creating chances but squandering them. It seemed like the Potters would claim all three points, but Giroud equalized the game in the 94th minute, in what would be the last play of the game.

Swansea took a comfortable 2-1 victory over Newcastle. The Swans were in control throughout the match, going up by two thanks to Jonjo Shelvey and Jordi Amat. Newcastle pulled one back late thanks to a Remy break, but did not look likely to equalize.

West Brom crushed Wigan 3-1 at the Hawthorns, getting a comfortable lead thanks to Shane Long and two strikes from Chris Brunt. Grant Holt clawed one back from Wigan in the 70th minute, but Ramis’ sending off two minutes later signaled the end of the Wigan fightback.

Saturday’s marquee game saw Liverpool pitted against Chelsea at Anfield, a contest that the Blues were expected to win. They followed the script, going ahead thanks to Demba Ba in the first half and doubling their lead in the 55th minute courtesy of Ramires. Mourinho’s men got overconfident though, and lax defending allowed Gerrard and Aspas to even the score at 2-2.

Sunday’s first game saw Tottenham host holders Everton. Spurs had been impressive in their opening fixture but narrowly lost to Leeds, and it was much the same here. Erik Lamela set up Moussa Dembele for the opener with only 4 minutes on the clock, and Tottenham dominated the match from there on out. Everton were happy defending and playing on the break though, and came back thanks to fantastic goals from Andreas Cornelius in the 34th and 75th to secure the 2-1 win.

In the final game of the second round of fixtures, Reading hosted Southampton. Reading had a spirited draw against United last week, but was unable to put up a fight as Southampton came out easy winners. Two goals from Rickie Lambert in the 12th and 25th were enough for the Saints to secure the 2-0 victory.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Monday August 24th, 2015

Leeds Reject Reading’s Approach for Planas

Leeds United have rejected a new and improved 2m pound offer from Reading for Carles Planas. It seems rather strange that Reading are looking to recruit a player known to be unreliable defensively, and even more suprising is Leeds’ reluctance to sell a player who is a known liability.

Leeds seem unsure that they would be able to get a suitable replacement due to their lack of funds, choosing to keep a player with known deficiencies rather than gambling on someone else. On the other hand, there is no explanation for Reading’s interest in a player who has proven to be less than functional as a defender.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday August 25th, 2015

European Adventure Goes South for Moyes

Manchester United impressed last season by battling to fourth place last year, putting on an impressive run towards the end of the year and denying rivals Manchester City by defeating them 3-0 on the final day of the season. Their efforts earned United a place in the Champions League playoffs, which see big name teams eliminated every year.

United strengthened this summer with two controversial signings though, with fans questioning Moyes’ ability to make shrewd signings. First to was Kevin Mirallas from Everton for the sum of 38m, joining Fellaini and Baines at Old Trafford. Kevin Mirallas was instrumental in the 2013/2014 season for Everton, netting 28 goals and 14 assists under Fernando Sampedro, but was a shadow of his former self last year. His recent form was worth nowhere near the 38 million Moyes paid, much less considering the Belgian’s contract ran out at the end of the season and Everton unlikely to renew his deal. The other signing has been Chelsea’s 23 year old brazilian full back Wallace, who had a poor time on loan at Stuttgart in the German Second Division last year. The right back joined for a surprising 12.75m, a fee which many argue was much too high considering the poor showings the player put in the German second tier.

Both of these players were on the pitch earlier today, as United attempted to qualify for the Champions League. Sevilla had dominated the Red Devils last week, going up by 2, but a red card after a poor tackle saw United rally late and tie the game. Needing only a scoreless draw to qualify, fans were notably relieved when the opening 15 minutes were under the home team’s control. Mirallas looked to make good on his transfer fee by consistently running past his man and putting wicked crosses in. His service was wasted on Wayne Rooney though, who had a torrid time in front of goal. The English striker had multiple opportunities on a silver platter courtesy of Mirallas and Kwadwo Asamoah on the flanks, but managed to miss every single one.

With Van Persie injured, Angelo Henriquez loaned out, and Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck sold, United didn’t have an alternative to Rooney up front, who continued to be wasteful as the game wore on. Despite the Red Devils only needing to draw 0-0 to progress, there was a general feeling that the missed chances would come back to bite the team. It was no surprise when Sevilla substitute Manu del Moral outpaced veteran defender Vidic, who somehow continues to get selected over Jan Kirchhoff, and placed a shot past De Gea to hand Sevilla the lead after 69 minutes. United continued pressuring upfront, but Rooney lacked the final touch, and desperation soon saw the team revert to harmless shots from distance.

Sevilla eliminate Man Utd after a 3-2 aggegate result, which saw the Spaniards put in a highly impressive performance in the first leg. Moyes will now have to look forward to Europa League football on Thursdays, as fans continue to criticize Mirallas’ 38m signing. While the Belgian forward didn’t put in a bad performance, many believe that the money could have been used to bring 2 or 3 other players. This result means that England will be represented in the group stage by holders Everton, Manchester City, and Leeds.

[carlosisonfire]

Wednesday August 26th, 2015

Leeds After Emerson

Leeds are yet again being linked with a left back, after both Costa and Planas having calamitous displays in their opening two games. 21 year old Brazilian Emerson, who currently plays at Santos, is rumored to have impressed the scouting team at Leeds, and has Miles doing everything in his power to bring the youngster to Elland Road. The Santos full back is reportedly available for 5m, which could be a problem considering Leeds have no funds available for transfers. Some of the cost could be covered if Leeds sell Planas to Reading, who are reported to be preparing a 2.5m bid for the Spaniard after their previous two attempts were turned down. That still leaves Miles having to pull 2.5m out of a hat though, which makes the transfer highly unlikely.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday August 27th, 2015

Leeds Handed Tough Group, Could be Worse

It was never going to be easy for Leeds in Europe’s elite competition after their fairytale third place finish in the league last year. No previous involvement in European football meant that they were slotted into the draw as a 4th seed, meaning that they would have at least two other strong sides drawn with them.

Their fears were confirmed today when the draw placed Leeds in Group G alongside la Liga champions Barcelona and Serie A giants A.C. Milan, who finished second in the league last year. The other team drawn in this group was Belarus outfit BATE Borisov, who was one of the weakest teams in the 3rd seed. Leeds will certainly be happy they got BATE instead of the likes of Sevilla, Sporting (POR), or Monaco, who were also seeded for a third slot.

Leeds are favorites to finish third and drop to the Europa League, with the odds favoring Barcelona to top the group and Milan to take the second spot. Not even the most diehard Leeds fan could tell you that the knockout stage is a realistic expectation.

The other English teams have had better luck, getting significantly weaker groups. Everton has been drawn alongside PSV, Sevilla, and Anderlecht in Group G, while Manchester City will face Benfica, Ajax, and Legia in Group A. Both Everton and City are widely expected to top their groups with ease.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday August 28th, 2015

Leeds Drawn Against Cardiff in Capital One Cup

Leeds United will host Cardiff when the teams clash in the Capital Cup 3rd Round on September 22nd. Leeds have just entered the competition at this stage, with Cardiff having to defeat League One outfit Yeovil to get to here. Leeds’ boss Lyndon Miles has opted to field second string sides in the cup competitions during his tenure at Leeds, which could present a great chance for Cardiff to advance.

Leeds United were eliminated in the Second Round last year, when they lost 1-0 to Championship side Middlesbrough. Cardiff defeated Leyton Orient 3-1 in the second round, before losing 2-1 at Crystal Palace in the 3rd round.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday August 28th, 2015

Alberto Leads Everton to Super Cup Glory

Alberto has been one of the most iconic players of the Sampedro era at Everton. The young centerback arrived at Goodison Park two years ago before the start of the season from Tenerife for a fee of 350k. Most though he was a prospect for the future, but Sampedro had other plans. Alberto was made a starter at the tender age of 20, and would partner Sylvain Distin in the center of defense as Everton battled their way to the league title. The following year, Distin was sold, but Alberto would again prove to be the base of the defense alongside newcomer Santiago Vergini as Everton retained the league and won the Champions league. This is Alberto’s third year at Everton, and he has his third defensive partner in Brazilian youngster Doria. The constant change hasn’t fazed Alberto, now 22, who still remains one of Everton’s best performers on the pitch.

Today’s European Super Cup would see Everton matched against Europa League holders and 2014 Champions League winners Schalke in a 4-3-3 v 4-3-3 match up. Pre game odds heavily favored the German giants, who have brought the likes of Diego Reyes, Oscar, and Lucas Romero in during the summer. Things wouldn’t start well for Everton, with Draxler and Meyer combining right from the kick off to present striker Timo Werner with a golden chance just 15 seconds into the game. Igor Akinfeev managed to turn Werner’s shout past the post, though Schalke maintained the pressure.

It was clear that Everton’s central midfielders Darron Gibson, Will Hughes, and Michael Bradley, couldn’t cope with the sheer skill possessed by Manuel Fernandes, Lucas Romero, and Diego Reyes. Likewise down the flanks, Coleman and Neil Taylor struggled to contain Julian Draxler and Maximillian Meyer, who beat their counterparts time and time again. The constant crossess and passes put into the Everton box were dexterously deflected by a fantastic effort for both Alberto and Doria though, ensuring the Toffees stayed in the match.

Everton’s attempt at counter attacks were quickly stifled by Howedes and Alvarez Balanta, Schalke’s central defenders, with Alen Halilovic and Andreas Cornelius enjoying unusually quiet games. The teams would go into the half scoreless, though Schalke were clearly the better side and it only looked like a matter of time before they would score. With the forwards struggling, it would be up to the Everton defense to win the game. Alberto did just that, scoring two powerful set piece headers completely against the run of play to secure the victory for Everton.

Portuguese midfielder Josue was the provider on both goals, having become the set-piece specialist at Everton since joining from Porto last season. The first goal came from a free kick on the left of the box in the 58th minute, which saw Alberto outjump Diego Reyes at the near post to put Everton ahead. The second would come in the 71st, when a corner kick was taken toward the penalty spot, where Alberto lurked unmarked. The Spaniard powered a header towards the far post corner, out of the reach of keeper Benoit Costil.

Despite not creating any chances from open play, a fantastic display from Alberto both on defense and set pieces hands the European Super Cup to Everton. Schalke boss Steve Thompson was clearly unhappy with the result, unable to explain how his side had been unable to score despite their dominance.

There have been recent calls for Alberto to be included in the Spain national team, but these pleas have been ignored. If he continues to perform like this though, it won’t be long before he is representing his country at senior level.

[carlosisonfire]

Sunday August 29th, 2015

Premier League

Leeds (6th) v West Brom (5th) Match Preview

Leeds United will host West Brom, who are expected to be involved in the relegation battle. Leeds have had an impressive comback victory over Spurs and a not so impressive victory over Q.P.R., though they could have just as easily lost those if not for Yann Sommer. Leeds need a clear and convincing win over West Brom to prove that they are one of the big dogs and dispel the doubts created by the nervy win over Q.P.R.

West Brom denied Leeds the chance to win the title on the final day last season, holding them to a scoreless draw and securing their Premier League survival. That was Harry Redknapp’s team, who has since retired. Brendan Rodgers has taken over The Baggies, fresh from his disappointing spell at Liverpool that saw him fail to live up to expectations. Some say that Rodgers wasn’t ready to manage a bigger team and that West Brom are right up his alley of expertise. Things certainly have started off well, as the Baggies have gotten two huge victories against relegation contenders. First, they defeated Crystal Palace, scoring a late winner against the run of play, then a convincing 3-1 victory over a Wigan team that had looked very strong on their opening fixture. Leeds is certainly the toughest opposition they have faced so far, but their left back weakness has been extremely evident.

Rodgers has made some astute signings so far, bringing in the likes of Senad Lulic, Eric Dier, and Tommy Oar. His latest capture was Ryan McGowan from Q.P.R., who featured against Leeds in his team’s loss last week. He will certainly be looking for revenge today.

Leeds 4-1-3-2

GK – Yann Sommer ©

DR – Jack Hunt

DC – Scott Wootton

DC – Danny Batth

DL – Jaume Costa

DM – Christoph Kramer

MC – Jon Williams

MC – Victor Perez

MC – Casemiro

ST – Apostolos Vellios

ST – Paulo Dybala

S1 – Ross Turnbull

S2 – Craig Dawson

S3 – Carles Planas

S4 – Guido Pizarro

S5 – Rafal Wolski

S6 – Luciano Vietto

S7 – Denis Stracqualursi

Jack Hunt has been an integral part of Leeds’ offensive movements so far, but he was caught out time and time again against Q.P.R. This wasn’t so much from mistakes as the fact that he cant cover two men. Nicolita and Yoon overloaded his wing last game, and Kramer is much too occupied with the left backs’ failings to help. The fullbacks are the weak link of this Leeds formation, though Hunt cannot be exploited as easily as Costa/Planas.

Jaume Costa returns to the side, despite being poor all around against both Spurs and Q.P.R. Planas hasn’t done any better though, and Miles seems to be alternating just for the sake of it.

Christoph Kramer has looked very comfortable in the hole, slotting backwards easily to become a third center back. His weakness has shown when Costa or Planas get caught out though. The German midfielder has been tasked with going out wide to cover for his left backs’ mistakes, but lacks the pace to do so effectively. His forays out wide have also been leaving the center backs exposed, and it’ll be interesting to see if Miles changes the holder’s instructions this game.

Casemiro makes his competitive debut for Leeds, with Guido Pizarro deemed unfit to start after coming off with an injury last week. Pizarro has been the most impressive midfield player for Leeds so far, putting the pressure on Casemiro to perform if he wants to keep the starting spot.

Dybala returns as a starter after scoring the winner off a corner against the Rs. The polish youngster was unimpressive against Spurs, but has been granted another chance after Vietto was equally unimpressive last game.

West Brom 4-3-3

GK – Ben Foster

DR – Billy Jones

DC – Eric Dier

DC – Ryan McGowan

DL – Senad Lulic

DM – George Thorne

MC – Youssouf Mulumbu ©

MC – Darren Fletcher

AMR – Kim Bo-Kyung

AML – Chris Brunt

ST – Shane Long

S1 – Boaz Myhill

S2 – Ryan Bennett

S3 – Jonathan Parr

S4 – Andy King

S5 – Saido Berahino

S6 – Donervon Daniels

S7 – Steven Reid

Eric Dier has looked solid since joining from Sporting (POR), where he has been a starter for the past two years. The 21 year old only cost 245k, but so far has put in solid performances at the back. This will be his first game alongside Ryan McGowan, with previous partner Jonas Olsson out with injury.

Ryan McGowan will have a point to prove, being on the losing team against Leeds last week. He played a solid game at the back, but was constantly let down by his center back partner Danny Wilson. McGowan has since moved to West Brom, and will be keen to be on the winning side this time.

Senad Lulic is a very attack minded player, and his combination with Brunt will be key to overloading Jack Hunt.

George Thorne finds himself thrust into a starting role under Rodgers. The 22 year old made 15 appearances last season under Redknapp, though 11 of those were as a sub. Many question whether he is ready to play regularly at this level, but his manager seems to trust him.

Chris Brunt starts out on the left wing, but he prefers to tuck inside. He has scored two goals so far in this manner, but staying wide and interacting with Lulic to displace Hunt will be more beneficial than marching into Leeds’ crowded center.

Kim Bo-Kyung finds himself in the promised land, facing the calamitous Jaume Costa. The Korean international has been something of a non-factor so far, being almost invisible in the Baggies’ games. This is his chance to step into the limelight and be the catalyst for his team.

Shane Long scored two impressive efforts against Wigan last week, though he won’t find it as easy to get past Leeds’ established center back pairing, much less Yann Sommer.

Saido Berahino is an interesting option on the bench. The young striker offers a burst of pace from the bench, if not much technical quality, and could be used as an impact substitute later on in the match. He is also comfortable playing on the right, and could prove a suitable alternative if Kim Bo-Kyung doesn’t perform.

Prediction

Leeds 1 – 0 West Brom

West Brom are not a team that like to exploit the flanks, and aren’t suited for it even if they try. Chris Brunt lacks pace, Kim Bo-Kyung has been poor, and Billy Jones doesn’t push very far up. Jack Hunt should be able to take on Lulic, leaving West Brom to try to play through the packed center. The Baggies’ are unlike to score in this manner, particularly with Sommer’s impressive performances.

Leeds have been poor finishing from open play so far, but they have been clinical in set pieces. I expect that they will again miss sitters, but pull out a late winner against a West Brom team that is clearly inferior.

[carlosisonfire]

29.8.2015

Premier League

Leeds (6th, 2-0-0) v West Brom (5th, 2-0-0)

0:00 – Hello and welcome to Elland Road, where Leeds are preparing to receive West Brom. Both sides had won their opening two games and will hope to keep their 100% records here. Leeds are slight favorites in what should prove to be a close contest.

Vellios kicks off, passing to Dybala. Dybala goes all the way back to Wootton, as Leeds’ players get into attacking positions. Wootton hits it up 20 yards, wide on the right for Hunt. Hunt receives the ball within WBA’s half and is met by the challenge of Lulic, Hunt simply passes the ball into the gap that Lulic has left by coming up so far, finding Vellios. The Greek striker receives the ball just outside the box, and takes a vicious shot with his second touch. The ball blazes inches wide of the far post, and Ben Foster does not look happy with his defense.

7:27 – Jaume costa will take a throw in from an advanced position on the left. He finds Dybala inside the box, who controls it with a sublime touch. Dybala proceeds to lose his man, Billy Jones, with a sharp turn and starts running towards goal. He skips past Dier’s challenge and finds himself inside the 6 yard box, facing Ben Foster from a very tight angle. Vellios is completely unmarked at the top of the 6 asking for a cutback, but Dybala elects to shoot instead, putting it into the side netting. His manager looks furious with his striker’s selfishness.

20:08 – Hunt takes a throw-in inside WBA’s half, near the midfield line. Hunt goes down the line for Vellios, who chests it down then plays it to the center for Perez. The Spaniard puts it back towards the right first time, finding Jack Hunt’s run which has overlapped Vellios. Lulic comes to challenge Hunt near the edge of the box, but the English full back simply plays the ball into the gap that Lulic has left, finding Vellios. The Greek striker is right outside the 6 yard box, and chooses to play a pass across the goal. Victor Perez has made a run from deep and is looking to get on the end of Vellios’ ball, but a key clearance from Eric Dier removes the danger.

Danny Batth will control the clearance near the center of the pitch, and passes it left towards Costa who is in an advanced position. Costa controls it with his first touch, then puts in a cross from deep, aiming towards the far post. Vellios has slipped away from Ryan McGowan and is near the 6 yard box eyeing Costa’s ball, with Lulic coming to challenge him. Both players jump for the ball. . .

. . . and Vellios easily beats Lulic, with the full back never likely to challenge the big man in the air. Vellios directs his header towards the left post, just out of Foster’s reach, and the stadium erupts as Leeds take the lead. Ryan McGowan had a solid game when he turned out for Q.P.R. against Leeds last week, but his inability to track Vellios has cost his team dearly this time around.

24:58 – McGowan will take a long throw from the right, putting it inside the box. Danny Batth clears it easily. The ball falls to the edge of the box for Kim Bo-Kyung, who shoots on the volley! Oh, but what an awful effort from the Korean forward. Many expected him to take charge and abuse Costa this game, but he has been invisible so far.

30:08 – Billy Jones receives the ball near the midfield and plays it down the line for Kim Bo-Kyung. The Korean is faced with Costa, and he easily drifts past his challenge. Kim has a lot of room to dribble, but instead chooses to play the ball forwards to Mulumbu, who has made a run into the box. Mulumbu receives the ball on the top of the box and shoots, but the tame attempt is easily held by Sommer. Strange decision from Kim to look for a pass when he could’ve dribbled into a threatening position.

45:15 – Lulic makes a run down the left inside Leeds’ half, causing Hunt to come up to challenge him. Lulic plays it past Hunt to Brunt, who has stayed out wide. Brunt goes down to the corner flag and cuts it back towards the top of the box, where Shane Long is lurking. The Irishman receives it unmarked and unleashes a shot towards the bottom corner of the near post! Sommer has anticipated the shot though, and is there to collect it without much fuss. Great combination from Brunt and Lulic to overload Hunt. Brunt has preferred to drift inside, and this is the first time that he has been available to link with Lulic.

Halftime

Leeds United take a slim lead into the break, but look shaky on the pitch. West Brom are pressuring Leeds, allowing them to play their preferred counter attacking style, but the transitions haven’t been there. Casemiro has been disappointing in his debut, giving away the ball and generally making poor passes. He will most certainly be replaced. Jaume Costa has had a solid performance, not being exposed much on the left and providing an assist for Vellios’ goal. There hasn’t been much going forward from Leeds, but they have been excellent at the back.

West Brom have dominated possession, but have lacked the guile to exploit the flanks. Chris Brunt keeps going towards the center, being completely ineffective. West Brom’s brightest chance to equalize has come from the one time that he has stayed out wide. On the other side, Kim has been a non-factor so far and Rodgers will certainly be considering the introduction of Saido Berahino. McGowan made an error marking Vellios, causing Leeds to take the lead but otherwise they have been solid defensively. If they focus on the flanks they have a good chance to get back into the match.

45:00 – Leeds have made a change at the half, removing the poor Casemiro in favor of Guido Pizarro. West Brom will take the kick off, with Long going back for Lulic. Lulic goes down the line for Brunt, who passes it to the right for Mulumbu. Mulumbu goes sideways to Lulic, who plays it down the middle for Brunt, who has made a run into the center. Kramer beats Brunt to the ball though, as Leeds yet again break down another attempt down the middle.

50:46 – Foster takes a short corner kick for Lulic. The Bosnian dwells on the ball before passing it short to McGowan. The center back immediately clears the ball towards the right flank of the field despite not being under any sort of pressure. Jaume Costa is set to control the clearance near the midfield line, sticks out his foot, BUT HE MISSES THE BALL! It continues to roll past the Spaniard, and Kim Bo-Kyung is now running after it. Kim controls the ball and runs toward the box with no one near him. What an atrocious piece of defending from Costa. Kim inside the box, Sommer rushes out to meet him, Kim applies the finish. . .

. . . and it’s a soft one, rolling slowly into the hands of the Swiss keeper. What an awful attempt from Kim, who has squandered Costa’s gift and missed the equalizer.

53:24 – Dybala is fouled right outside of the box in a dangerous area by Thorne, earning a free kick. Dybala himself steps up to take it, but puts his effort well wide. Miles takes the chance to sub out Victor Perez, who has been poor so far. Young Rafal Wolski takes the Spaniard’s place. West Brom are also making a substitution, removing Lulic for Norwegian left back Jonathan Parr.

59:56 – Foster takes a goal kick short towards Billy Jones. The right back dwells on the ball looking for an open man, and doesn’t see Dybala coming up to challenge him. Dybala easily dispossesses his opponent, and dribbles inside the box. The Polish youngster rifles a shot towards the far post, but it cannons of the upright and is deflected wide. Horrible defending from Jones, gifting a chance to Dybala. The striker probably would have been better off placing his shot rather than blasting it towards the goal though.

62:26 – Kim finds himself with the ball just inside Leeds’ half, and Costa coming up to challenge him. Rather than taking on the Spaniard, Kim makes a back pass for Billy Jones. Jones plays it down the line for Kim, who has been followed by Costa. Rather than attempting to beat him, Kim decides to pass toward the center for Mulumbu. Mulumbu goes wide for Jones, who again attempts a ball down the line to meet up with Kim’s run. Costa has again followed the Korean, who seems reluctant to take on his man.

Kim gives it back to Jones, who puts it forward 10 yards towards the middle where Kim has made his run. The Korean receives the ball, but again gives the ball back to Jones rather than attempting to take on Danny Batth. Jones takes matters into his own hands, striding down the lane and dribbling past Costa’s clumsy challenge. Jones plays a nice ball towards the right edge of the box, where Kim currently finds himself. The Korean receives the ball, but is challenged and dispossessed easily by Batth. Kim goes to ground though, and the referee blows his whistle. The whole ground is stunned, but the referee signals that the infraction is diving and proceeds to book Kim. What a disappointing display from the Korean.

77:08 – Shane Long looks to be struggling after a strong challenge from Wootton, and Rodgers decides to remove him in favor of Saido Berahino. Many were expecting the enthusiastic striker to replace Kim much earlier in the match, but it appears that Rodgers is pleased with the Korean’s display. West Brom are also withdrawing George Thorne, who looks winded, in favor of Andy King.

93:17 – And the referee blows for full time! Leeds take another unconvincing win to keep their 100% record.

29.8.2015

Premier League

Leeds 1 – Vellios (21)

West Brom 0

Man of the Match – Danny Batth

Leeds take an unconvincing win at home from a West Brom team who they were expected to easily beat. While Leeds looked comfortable despite only having 41% of the possession, they were very poor transitioning from defense to attack and crated nothing going forward. Luckily for them, West Brom’s offensive shortcomings, coupled with a mistake from McGowan, allowed Leeds to take all three points. Leeds will definitely have to improve their performances, as they don’t look like favorites to win any match at this point.

West Brom dominated the match against Leeds, but struggled to create concrete chances. This was due to Brunt’s insistence to keep moving inside instead of staying wide, as well as Kim Bo-Kyung’s disappointing display. The Baggies were unlucky to go behind against a team they had stopped all game. Credit must go to Mulumbu, Fletcher, and Thorne, who managed to stop every attack that Leeds tried to generate in midfield. Unfortunately for them, the Leeds backline isn’t as porous as Wigan’s or Crystal Palace’s, and WBA struggled to find space all game.

[carlosisonfire]

Monday August 31st, 2015

Premier League Roundup

Manchester United, fresh from being knocked out of the Champions League, took out their frustrations on Fulham at Old Trafford. Wayne Rooney scored either side of halftime, with Keisuke Honda adding a late third to secure the 3-0 win.

Leeds took a 1-0 victory at home over West Brom, in what turned out to be a drab match. Both teams were poor going forward, and Leeds were lucky to get on the board at all.

Aston Villa suffered their first defeat of the season at home against Liverpool. The Reds scored the first goal thanks to Coutinho’s shot from distance in the 49th minute, but Villa equalized in the 71st courtesy of Libor Kozak. The game turned into an end to end affair, but Villa lacked the finishing to keep up with their opponents. Sturridge put Liverpool ahead in the 85th on a counter attack, and Sakho scored from a corner kick in the 90th to secure the result.

Crystal Palace continued their losing streak to start the league, being defeated by Swansea at home after Michu put the Welsh side ahead. Palace have yet to score a goal and have lost their opening three fixtures.

Southampton maintained their 100% record, dispatching a poor Cardiff side 2-0 at home thanks to two headers from Rickie Lambert in the first half.

The surprise of this set of fixtures occurred at the DW Stadium, where Wigan was able to hold Manchester City to a 1-1 draw. Edin Dzeko put the Manchester outfit ahead with only 42 seconds on the clock. City dominated but was unable to add to their lead. Things got significantly worse for Wigan when James Perch was sent off in the 49th minute. Wigan have had a player sent off in each of their three opening matches. Still, Tony Pulis’ men held tight and got one back thanks to veteran striker Grant Holt, who was in the right place at the right time during a corner kick in the 89th minute.

Sunday’s first game saw Newcastle, who finished clear of relegation last season, host an impressive Reading team who finished 7th and are in the Europa League. The game was a display of attacking football, with both teams exploiting the wide areas and going forward. Tom Ince put the Toon ahead in the 35th, only for Matt Phillips to equalize in the 40th. The ensuing kickoff saw a nice move from Newcastle, immediately regaining the lead thanks to Moussa Sissoko. The game continued to be a back and forth affair until Jordan Rhodes equalized in the 62nd minute. Both teams then backed off, seeming to settle for the point.

The other Sunday game saw Tottenham host Stoke, a game which Spurs dominated. Despite controlling possession and creating multiple chances thanks to Ayew and Lamela, they lacked the finishing to secure all three points. The game ended as a 0-0 draw, the first point that Spurs have acquired in the league this season.

The Monday game saw a clash between Champions League hopefuls Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. Luis Suarez suffered the shame of scoring an own goal after a goal line scramble, giving the lead to Chelsea. Mourinho’s men kept the ball after that, with Arsenal barely getting a look. Mata doubled the lead in the 74th, and 2 minutes later Natxo Monreal got sent off, ensuring the Chelsea victory.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday September 2nd, 2015

Interesting Deals Done in Final Day of Transfer Window

This year’s deadline day didn’t disappoint, with some interesting deals being done right before the window slammed shut. The first transfer to catch the eye was Liverpool’s signing of Uruguayan striker Abel Hernandez for 6.5m from Atletico Madrid. Hernandez joined the Spanish club last year for only 3.4m from Palermo, but has been largely disappointing. With Luis Suarez leaving in the summer for 21.5m to join Arsenal, Liverpool needed to strengthen their forward line, but Hernandez hardly seems good enough to fill his compatriot’s shoes.

Another interesting transfer was Chelsea’s capture of Marc Bartra from Barcelona for 14m. Chelsea’s current defensive partnership consists of Dede and John Terry, but most agree that the former England international is way past his peak. Barta isnt particularly fast, strong, or good in the air though, which leaves many wondering if Chelsea couldn’t have found a cheaper, better than average option.

The last big move to occur during deadline day was Jack Rodwell’s 5.75m switch from City to Arsenal. City have made a considerable loss on Rodwell after the midfielder was signed for 12m from Everton in 2012. The former Toffee never really established himself at the Etihad, and it is no surprise that he is leaving for the promise of more first team football.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday September 4th, 2015

Dybala Injured on International Duty

Leeds’ striker Paulo Dybala has been withdrawn from the Poland squad after picking up a hamstring injury during training. The youngster is likely to be out for three weeks, with the game against Reading on the 26th to be the most likely return date for him. This means that Leeds will face a tough stretch of 4 games in 10 days, including a Champions League match against BATE and a Capital One Cup clash against Cardiff, with Vietto as the only senior pacey striker on the books at Leeds. This is likely to see youngsters Damien Vasey and Russel Gallanders get a chance in the first team.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday September 8th, 2015

England Qualify for European Championship

The Three Lions secured their berth at next year’s European Championship with a convincing 2-0 win over second placed Romania. The game was a special occasion for young Everton midfielder Will Hughes, who was handed his first cap and looked solid throughout the game. England went ahead in the 15th minute through a Leighton Baines penalty after Oxlade-Chamberlain was brought down in the box. Despite dominating their opponents, England couldn’t add a second to secure the result until the 87th minute, when Newcastle’s Tom Ince scored his first international goal on his second ever cap.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday September 9th, 2015

Leeds Board Enforce Transfer Embargo

Leeds have been placed under a transfer embargo amidst intensifying rumors of a takeover by a consortium of businessmen. Current chairman Salah Nooruddin has declined to make any comments regarding the potential sale of the club, though the induction of the embargo confirms the ever increasing speculation.

[carlosisonfire]

Saturday September 12th, 2015

Premier League

Leeds (3rd) v Swansea (9th) Match Preview

Leeds are prepared to receive Swansea at Elland Road, hoping to continue their perfect start to the league. Despite winning every game so far, United have been largely unconvincing against their opposition so far. Besides Tottenham, Leeds’ opposition have been preseason relegation favorites, and Swansea is certainly a sterner test. If Leeds don’t step up their game, they could certainly be facing their first defeat of the season.

Swansea were outclassed by Southampton 3-0 in their opening match of the season, but have gone on to win their other two games. They’ve edged victories over Crystal Palace and Newcastle, but have shown defensive frailties in both games. They are strong going forward though, and should cause problems for the Leeds backline.

Leeds 4-1-3-2

GK – Yann Sommer ©

DR – Jack Hunt

DC – Scott Wootton

DC – Danny Batth

DL – Jaume Costa

DM – Christoph Kramer

MC – Jon Williams

MC – Victor Perez

MC – Guido Pizarro

ST – Apostolos Vellios

ST – Luciano Vietto

S1 – Ross Turnbull

S2 – Craig Dawson

S3 – Carles Planas

S4 – Casemiro

S5 – Adam Vass

S6 – Rafal Wolski

S7 – Denis Stracqualursi

Guido Pizarro returns to the starting lineup after Casemiro’s poor showing last game.

Luciano Vietto was originally signed to be Goncalves’ understudy, but now finds himself as the only senior striker available for Leeds. He has been largely disappointing so far, and if he doesn’t improve his finishing then Leeds could struggle in the coming weeks.

Swansea 4-2-3-1

GK – Michel Vorm

DR – Ashley Richards

DC – Jordi Amat

DC – Ashley Williams ©

DL – Benoit Assou-Ekotto

MC – James McCarthy

MC – Javad Nekounam

AMR – Nathan Dyer

AMC – Michu

AML – Ryan Babel

ST – Wilfried Bony

S1 – Paulo Gazzaniga

S2 – Mark Noble

S3 – Jonjo Shelvey

S4 – Kris Commons

S5 – Haris Seferovic

S6 – Ryan Shotton

S7 – Chico

Ashley Williams, the Swansea captain, has been the team’s worst performer so far. He was largely to blame for all four goals that Swansea has conceded this season. He must remove the errors from his game if the Swans hope to get a result today.

James McCarthy has been the best player for Swansea so far, pulling all of the strings from the midfield. The Irish international has joined on loan after he was told he was no longer needed at Everton, and his recent performances will certainly make the Toffees regret their decision,

Javad Nekounam has been another of Swansea’s weak links. The 34 year old Iranian is certainly a great defensive player, but lacks pace and has constantly been caught out of position.

Ryan Babel makes his debut today for Swansea after his 2.4m move from Turkish side Kasimpasa. The former Liverpool player did not impress in the Turkish Super League, and many are questioning his signing.

Wilfried Bony is considered to be Swansea’s best player, and many were surprised when he did not leave during the transfer window. Bony has been largely disappointing so far this season, failing to capitalize on the chances presented to him.

Mark Noble has been impressive off the bench for the Swans, and it’s hard to explain why the underwhelming Nekounam is being chosen ahead of him.

Haris Seferovic is Swansea’s marquee signing of the summer, joining for 5.5m from Real Sociedad. The 23 year old Swiss striker has yet to make an appearance for the Swans, but with Bony’s poor performances, it surely is a matter of time until he finds himself in the first team.

Prediction

Leeds 1 – 0 Swansea

Leeds should take a narrow victory over Swansea today. The Welsh outfit has had poor defensive performances so far, and Leeds should be able to capitalize on that. Nathan Dyer is a pacey winger who likes to take on his man, but consistently puts in poor shots or inaccurate crosses. His profligacy coupled with Bony’s poor form should see Leeds escape with a clean sheet.

[carlosisonfire]

12.9.2015

Premier League

Leeds (3rd, 3-0-0) v Swansea (9th, 2-0-1)

0:00 – A beautiful summer’s day here at Elland Road, perfect for the spectacle of football. Leeds are looking to continue their winning streak, which has been rather unconvincing up to this point. Leeds is certainly the strongest opponent that Swansea have faced so far, and will need to rectify the defensive errors that have marred their previous matches.

Swansea will kick off, with Michu passing backwards to Amat. Amat goes first time wide for Dyer, who puts it towards the middle for McCarthy. McCarthy right to Richards, who has made a forward run. Costa comes up to challenge Richards, who passes the ball past Costa for Dyer. Dyer is completely free running down the line, lifts his head, sees Bony in the box, and unleashes a cross. . .

. . . oh, and what a horrible cross it is. The ball goes out of play for a goal kick nowhere near anybody.

6:43 – Sommer takes a short goal kick for Batth, who puts it wide for Hunt. Jack Hunt hits a long ball forward for Vellios, who flicks it forward for Vietto. Vietto now running with the ball, facing both Amat and Williams. He drags both defenders, and sees Victor Perez making a run into the space they have left. Vietto tries to pass it into space for Perez, but the ball is poor and intercepted by Richards. Richards tries to lay it off for McCarthy to start a counter, but he hits it weakly and Pizarro intercepts the ball. The Argentine taps it forward for Perez, who threads the ball in between both center backs to find Vietto’s run. Vietto controls the ball, takes a step forward inside the box, and unleashes a fierce shot!

Right at the keeper’s hands. What a disappointing finish from Luciano Vietto, who had a golden chance served to him by Perez.

10:37 – Assou-Ekotto takes a throw in within Swansea’s half, but it is intercepted by Jon Williams. Williams goes to Perez, who in turn goes to Pizarro. Pizarro backheels it to Kramer, who receives the ball and takes his time to survey the field. Kramer then hits a long ball down the right wing, where Jon Williams has made a run. Williams runs past Assou-Ekotto and hits a cross into the box. Victor Perez chests the ball down near the penalty spot, lines up his shot. . .

. . . and is hacked down by Javad Nekounam. The referee blows his whistle immediately, signaling the penalty. What a needless foul by Nekounam, as Perez was unlikely to score from that situation. The Iranian makes yet another high profile mistake for the Swans.

Perez steps up to take the penalty kick and calmly places it in the bottom right corner, away from Vorm’s reach. Leeds take the lead after Nekounam gives away a silly penalty.

12:04 – Swansea kick off after conceding, looking to regroup. They have yet to manage a shot on goal despite being even in possession. Richards has the ball within their own half and sends it down the line for Dyer, who has gotten in behind Costa. Costa intercepts the pass though, and is now running forward into Swansea territory. Richards comes up to challenge him, but Costa plays a one-two with Pizarro to evade the defender. Costa now looks toward the box and sends a cross towards the near post for Vietto. Vietto chests it down, and turns past Ashley Williams, finding himself with the ball on the edge of the 6 yard box. Vellios and Perez are completely open, but Vietto instead elects to take a shot from a narrow angle towards the goal, which Vorm easily saves.

25:02 – Sommer collects the ball on the edge of the box after a failed pass into space from Swansea. The keeper lays it off for Jack Hunt, who eases past Babel’s challenge before playing towards the center for Jon Williams. Williams runs with it for a few meters before giving it back to Hunt, who has continued his run down the line. Hunt is faced by Assou-Ekotto, but evades his challenge as well and reaches the byline. Hunt cuts it back to Vellios, who is at the near post. The Greek striker controls the ball, but takes too long to decide what to do with it. His dallying gives the defense time to regroup, and Williams easily disposesses him.

32:47 – Costa takes a throw in deep within Swansea territory, aiming it back for Vietto, who is standing at the edge of the box. Vietto plays it further back to Kramer, who gives it first time to Costa on the left wing. Costa takes a first time cross for Vellios, who finds himself unmarked at the near post. Vellios controls it with his first touch, takes a second touch, a third touch, and is dispossessed by Jordi Amat. Vellios wastes another good chance due to his indecision.

40:42 – Sommer takes a short goal kick for Batth, who hits it up to Pizarro. Pizarro plays it forward first time into the center circle, where Victor Perez has made a run. Nekounam, McCarthy, and Amat are all collapsing onto Victor Perez, who plays an exquisite ball into the space that Amat has left. Vietto runs onto it and he’s off to the races. Ashley Williams cannot keep up with him, and Vietto runs into the box with only the keeper to beat. Vietto shoots hard and low. . .

. . . and plays it right into Vorm’s hands. A disappointing shot from Vietto, who looked certain to score. Miles looks disgusted with him, but has no fit strikers who can play in his role at the moment.

Halftime

Leeds are cruising to victory here at Elland Road, completely unthreatened by Swansea. Leeds have gone ahead thanks to a penalty, but have had many clear chances. Sadly for United, their two strikers have been largely wasteful, and it is certainly an ongoing concern this season. Both wingbacks have been heavily influential this game, with great forward runs and crosses. Victor Perez has particularly impressed, picking apart the opposition defense with his great passes.

Swansea are down and look powerless to change it. They have yet to manage a single shot this game and are being outclassed. Only poor finishing from Leeds has kept the scoreline respectable. Bony and Babel have been non-factors, and Dyer has been wasteful. In the midfield, Nekounam has failed to provide any defensive cover besides giving away the penalty. Amat and Williams have been constantly dragged out of position, leaving many gaps for Leeds to exploit. There are hardly any positives for the Swans in the first half.

45:00 – Swansea have made a change at the half, removing the disappointing Javad Nekounam for Jonjo Shelvey. It is an interesting substitution, with Mark Noble available on the bench. Noble has had a positive impact in previous games off the bench for Swansea, most notably against Newcastle, but Nigel Adkins has chosen to give Shelvey his first appearance of the season.

46:13 – Richards takes a throw in near the midfield line towards Dyer. Dyer runs down the line and easily outpaces Costa before putting in a cross near the edge of the 18. The cross is poor though, and is drifting towards goal rather than the center of the box. Sommer had come out to try to intercept the cross, and is out of position to deal with its trajectory towards goal. The whole ground watches as the ball dips towards the goal. . .

. . . and it hits the post and goes out for a goal kick. Swansea could have equalized courtesy of Dyer’s cross or shot or whatever it was, but it is denied by the post.

48:21 – Perez has the ball in the midfield circle, plays it right to Williams. Williams takes a couple of steps before playing the ball up to Vellios. Vellios controls the ball and drags Ashley Williams out of position before playing the ball into the space left by the defender. Victor Perez has continued his run and latches onto the ball. Perez is now inside the box as Vorm comes out to narrow the angle, but a great tackle from James McCarthy prevents Perez from getting a shot off. Great work from McCarthy to follow Perez into the box and dispossess him.

50:23 – Sommer takes a shot goal kick for Wootton. Wootton looks at his options and decides to go forward for Kramer. The German takes one touch then plays it up to Williams. Williams goes up to Vellios, who controls the ball after having dragged Ashley Williams out of position yet again. Vellios turns past Williams and plays a ball into space. This time, Jack Hunt has made a run inside and finds himself one on one against Vorm in the box. The right back takes a shot down low, but Vorm saves it easily. Great play from Leeds, creating yet another clear chance seemingly identical to the one a couple of minutes ago. Ashley Williams is not having a good time out there today.

60:04 – Leeds make a double substitution. Victor Perez has been looking tired out there, and is replaced by Rafal Wolski. Apostolos Vellios is the other player coming off, being replaced by Stracqualursi. The Greek striker was poor in the first half, but created two great chances for his team in the second half.

61:32 – Swansea make a substitution, removing the disappointing Ryan Babel for Kris Commons. The Dutch winger has barely had a touch today and been poor tracking back when Jack Hunt has gone forward.

69:51 – Vorm takes a short goal kick towards Assou-Ekotto, who hits it down the line for Kris Commons. Commons receives the ball near the midfield line and goes right towards Shelvey. Shelvey gives it back to Commons, who has pulled Hunt towards him. Commons plays the ball into the space left by Hunt, with Michu and Kramer running towards it. Michu outruns Kramer and pulls Batth towards him as he controls the ball at the top left corner of the 18. Bony is making a run into the box unmarked, but Michu elects to take a shot, which goes wide.

74:48 – Swansea make their third and final substitution, introducing Ryan Shotton for Dyer. Ryan Shotton is going into the right back position, Ashley Richards is moving into the center of the pitch next to McCarthy, and Jonjo Shelvey is taking Dyer’s post on the right wing.

76:07 – Ryan Shotton has the ball near the midfield line, checking his options. He goes forward to Shelvey, who has located himself more towards the center of the pitch rather than out wide. Shelvey goes left to McCarthy, who plays it forward for Michu. Michu receives it with his back to goal and immediately plays the ball wide to the right, where Shotton has continued his run. Shotton finds himself at the edge of the 18 and plays a cross towards Bony, who has slipped his marker. Bony powers a header towards the near post, with Sommer seemingly too far from it. . .

. . . and it hits the post! Bony’s header hits the post and bounces right into the path of Danny Batth, who blasts the ball away for a throw in. What a great chance for Bony, who misses the chance to equalize by mere inches.

82:48 – Kris Commons is running with the ball down the right, as Swansea get a counter attack going. Commons is near the edge of the 18, but a great tackle from Costa dispossesses him. The ball is drifting towards the corner flag, and Batth makes a run to prevent it from going out for a goal kick. Batth tries to play a long ball to the opposite side of the pitch towards Jack Hunt, but the ball is intercepted by Ashley Richards, who plays the ball into the left side of the box, where Shelvey is lurking. Shelvey takes a wicked shot on the volley towards the near post. . .

. . . but Yann Sommer is there to safely palm it away from a corner kick. Terrible mistake by Batth, but he is saved by Shelvey’s decision to take a shot rather than pass it towards the open Michu or Bony.

92:06 – and the ref blows the final whistle, sealing Leeds’ fourth victory of the campaign despite a few nervy moments in the final 15 minutes. Leeds definitely looked more solid here than in their previous matches, but still have issues in front of goal.

12.9.2015

Premier League

Leeds 1 – Perez (pen. 12)

Swansea 0

Man of the Match – Michel Vorm

Leeds now have four wins in four games ahead of their first Champions League game in the midweek. They certainly looked better in defense this game, despite a few errors towards the end of the game. Still, issues in front of goal marred this performance. Vietto and Vellios both squandered multiple easy chances, and eventually it will come back to hurt Leeds.

Swansea had a poor game all around, and really should have lost by more. Ashley Williams in particular was poor, as Javad Nekounam before he was withdrawn. Going forward, they did not create anything, and had to rely on defensive giveaways to get anywhere near close to scoring.