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Rafael Clough

When Rafael Benitez took over as Inter Milan manager on June 10th 2010, many said he was sipping from a poisoned chalice given the success of his predecessor, Jose Mourinho. It was as if the Inter job was a trap laid by Mourinho that ensnared Benitez due to desire of the latter to better the former.

Fast forward 169 days and those doubters have been proved right. Benitez was sacked yesterday by Inter Milan in what had to be one of the worst kept secrets of 2010. The rumour mill was churning out more and more information by the hour to suggest that Benitez had gone despite the determination of Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti to keep it under wraps.

It is Moratti himself whom Benitez had the most problems with, claiming the 66 year-old had promised him three players in August but failed to deliver any, leaving Benitez with the squad of Mourinho that won the treble of Serie A, Coppa Italia and, perhaps most importantly, the Champions League.

Moratti (L) and Benitez (R) didn't enjoy the best of relationships at Inter Milan

With a new legacy built, Mourinho packed his bags and left to take on a new mission with Real Madrid, leaving Inter Milan managerless until Benitez filled the void following his departure from Liverpool after 6 years at the Premier League side.

Upon his arrival at Inter Milan, it seemed that Benitez was determined to emulate Mourinho's achievements in winning trophies but winning them "better" in the same manner Brian Clough did when he took charge of Leeds United for his infamous 44-day tenure at Elland Road. However, nothing at Inter was broken, they had just come off the back of the most successful season in the club's history so why fix it?

The answer is simple: Benitez wanted to employ a more attacking formation and style of football to almost undermine the achievements of Mourinho, who was often cited as being overly-defensive in his style, as effective as it was with the tangible success it gained.

Benitez's reign at Inter has similarities with Brian Clough's time at Leeds

Clough did the same when he went to Leeds. He had slated Don Revie and his side for years, suggesting they should be docked points and demoted for their style of play that had seen them nicknamed "Dirty Leeds". He wanted them to be just as successful as Revie's iconic side but he wanted them to win whilst playing good football. As with Inter, though, nothing was broken and there was no need to try and fix things other than for the benefit of personal pride.

It could be said that Benitez's fixation with the Real Madrid manager has ultimately led to his own downfall, he had all pictures of the ex-Chelsea manager taken down at the club's training HQ but the manner in which Benitez decided to dabble in amongst boardroom politics was also one of his many shortcomings.

During his time at Liverpool, his relationships with members of the club's hierarchy George Gillett, Tom Hicks, Rick Parry and Christian Purslow were fractured at best. The same happened at Inter with numerous outbursts against Moratti, getting Benitez into a tussle of power that he was never going to win.

Benitez finds himself out of a job for the second time in just six months

Clough, himself, was no stranger to speaking out against chairmen and executives, writing articles in newspapers and appearing on television on numerous occasions to scrutinise those in power, suggesting they knew nothing about the game. This led to Clough falling out with Derby chairman Sam Longson before resigning due to conflicts of interest.

The challenge of authority Benitez lay down to Moratti following the World Club Championship was a desperate throw of the dice and one that backfired to expose his weak position at Internazionale. With the Nerazzurri lying 7th in Serie A, 13 points behind leaders and bitter rivals AC Milan, a sixth straight title looks more than unlikely heading into 2011 and they are closer to the relegation places than first place based on current standings.

Whilst Benitez remains an viable option for clubs around Europe, his track record of relationships with those in power will have to be examined just as closely as his successes with the likes of Valencia and Liverpool. If he is to find success again, he must learn to leave the goings-on in the boardroom to those who know it best.

Clough resurrected his career with a move to Nottingham Forest, where he built a dynasty over the 18 years he spent in charge. If Benitez can engineer a move to the right club then there his every chance his managerial career can be revived after this disaster.

Much Adu About Nothing?

Do you remeber Freddy Adu? You must do. He was the young American who took the MLS by storm back in 2004 when he was only fourteen years old. He was seen as the future of the American game and a new world superstar. After becoming the youngest player to appear and score in the MLS, he was twice named in the MLS all-star team. A $1m sponsorship deal with sports franchise Nike soon followed along with several other endorsement deals.

During the early days of his career you would find Adu's name plastered all over the internet as well as YouTube compilations of his best moments in the hope that there would be many more to come. Six years later, it is those compilations that remain at the top of the search list for Adu's name on YouTube; evidence, perhaps, that his career has stalled somewhat.

After spending two weeks in a fruitless trial at Manchester United due to work permit issues in the Winter of 2006, Adu moved from Real Salt Lake to join Portugese giants Benfica in a deal worth no more than $2m in the summer of 2007 - a steal, some said, given the potential of this wonderkid.

Adu debuted for the American national team at the age of 16.

It was to prove to be a frustrating move as, in the three years since his move he has played for Benfica no more than 25 times, with the Lisbon club instead preferring to ship him out on loan to Belenenses, Monaco and Aris, leaving him under the radar, as such. Adu has been sparingly at the trio of clubs, spending more time off the field than on it. Given the hype surrounding him, there were unrealistic expectations of Adu to turn up and run players ragged for fun, spearheading the side but this has never really materialised given his slow progression.

It is not a lack of quality that has hindered this progression but a lack of games. The 21 year-old, who made his debut for America at just 16, is of an age where players usually tend to start to make a name for themselves but, having been widely known from such a young age, he seems a lot older than he is which, in itself, adds pressure on Adu.

A move to a team where he would play regularly would be the best thing for the career of Adu, which is at a crucial stage. If he is to start performing to the standard that those closest to him know he can do then we will witness this fledging youngster turn into a man, perhaps starting a new chapter in his career that will kick-start a faltering career.

Adu is one of many players to have been dubbed the "New Pele"

Although he sparked mass interest in the MLS, you cannot help but feel that Adu was used as a marketing tool, carrying the MLS on his back, rather than having his undeniable talent nurtured by his coaches. The attention he received will have been financially beneficial to him but benefits to his game would have been much more appreciated.

When Adu left America in 2007, David Beckham came in to join LA Galaxy - effectively replacing Adu as the face of the MLS, something which appeared to suggest that there was no need for the MLS to develop its own talent when a ready-made one was there for the taking.

Since leaving America in 2007, Adu has become football's forgotten superstar. Whilst a move back to the MLS is not completely out of the question, Adu still retains a dream of playing in the Premier League - he has declared himself a Tottenham fan - citing it to be his ultimate goal in football. If he can rediscover the form that made him one of the hottest talents on the planet in 2004 I would not rule out such a move as time is very much on his side.

How Do You Solve A Problem Like Mario?

If Mario Balotelli had been purchased to talk by Manchester City then his fee would already be justified but unfortunately for the 20 year-old Italian he was bought for his footballing talents and has spent most of his Manchester City career off the pitch rather than on it due to injury and discipline problems.

After injuring the meniscus in his knee on debut against FC Timisoara, a game in which he scored the winning goal, Balotelli did not feature again for City following his £24m move until late October where he was criticised for a poor performance at Wolves - something which acted as proof to many that he would not be able to cut the mustard in the Premier League.

However, we were to see the first glimpses of the good and bad sides of Balotelli at West Brom as the enigmatic striker scored twice before being sent off for two bookable offences later on in the match. Despite these moments of quality, Balotelli's insolence has stolen most of the headlines. It seems that once the youngster throws a strop, he finds it impossible to get out of it which results in incidents like the one at the Hawthorns.

In the recent 3-1 win away at West Ham, Balotelli walked straight down the tunnel upon being substituted; not bothering to stop to acknowledge his manager, Roberto Mancini after having a poor game. This led to the attitude of the Italian international being widely criticised with some citing it would hamper his chances of succeeding in the English game.

As such, that statement is true: there can be no doubt that Balotelli has the ability to do well - he won the Golden Boy trophy, thus winning what is effectively a popularity contest - one of the greater ironies of 2010, yet still managed to overshadow this achievement by saying he was better than every winner of the trophy bar one - Lionel Messi.

He also stated that he'd never heard of Arsenal's Jack Wilshere, who finished second in the running for the trophy. Modesty is clearly not a trait Balotelli has inherited but such arrogance is astounding given the hype around Wilshere. But, then again, why would Balotelli bother to care about anyone but himself? After all, he epitomises the attitude of spoilt youngsters in football nowadays.

Stirring up controversy with regards to AC Milan is also something that "Super Mario" is no stranger to, his statement that he will play for AC Milan one day despite moving to Manchester City from their bitter rivals Internazionale. Whilst at Inter Milan, he was pictured wearing an AC Milan shirt live on national television which sparked outrage amongst the Nerazzurri faithful, prompting Super Mario to be given a Balotelling off by his manager, Jose Mourinho.

In an era where every move of footballers is scrutinised, Balotelli would be well advised to hire someone to teach him how to deal with the media as it is obvious his talents lie with his feet rather than with his words.

Big Sam Not In Blackburn's Big Plans

Another Premier League day, another Premier League managerial casualty.

After a week of outrage against Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley for his decision to sack Chris Hughton, Blackburn's new owners have now put themselves into the firing line by sacking a proven Premier League manager in Sam Allardyce.

The 56 year-old was recently given a vote of confidence from the chairman of the company that now owns Blackburn. Anuradha Desai said that Allardyce "deserved a chance" yet it seems that he has not been given a fair one despite declaring that "the fortress of Ewood Park is back and the walls are getting higher" following successive home victories against Aston Villa and Wolves without conceding a goal.

Following Chris Hughton's sacking last week, Sam Allardyce is the latest victim of the mindless axe-swinging from Premier League chairmen who demand instant success.

Allardyce's work at Ewood Park has been nothing short of sterling; guiding the club away from the relegation zone in his first season in charge, a Carling Cup semi-final last season and movement into the upper echelons of the table this time around - they were in 8th place after a 3-0 win against Wolves. By anyone's standards, Big Sam has done a great job at Blackburn without employing the most aesthetically pleasing tactics; a trait that divides opinion of the man.

A statement from Allardyce, via the League Managers' Association, said: "I am very shocked and disappointed to be leaving Blackburn Rovers. I am extremely proud to have managed this club and I enjoyed a fantastic relationship with the players, my staff and the supporters during my time in charge. I now wish them and the football club every success for the future".

Stuart Holden's winner at the Reebok Stadium was the defining moment of Allardyce's last match in charge of Blackburn Rovers

Whilst Allardyce is not a man who will look for sympathy, he will, no doubt, receive it given the circumstances in which his dismissal has come about. Blackburn are currently 13th in the table and sit five points above the drop zone. This has not been deemed good enough by the new men in charge, who decided enough was enough following a 2-1 defeat in the local derby against Allardyce's former club Bolton.

Blackburn captain Ryan Nelsen gave credit to the "unbelieveable job" Allardyce did during his time at Ewood Park, stating that he was "absolutely gutted" when he heard the news. Striker Jason Roberts added "I just heard it now and couldn't believe it. I don't think anybody saw it coming. I'm shocked and disappointed for the manager."

The owners have stated that the decision was taken as part of the "wider plans and ambitions for the club". The replacement will have to be someone of great calibre and there are suggestions that ex-Tottenham manager Martin Jol is favourite with Chris Hughton and Martin O'Neill not that far behind.

Were there an Englishman responsible for the big decisions at Blackburn, it is likely that Allardyce would still manager of Blackburn and looking forward to their home game with West Ham this weekend. However, given the more than questionable decision-making of Newcastle's Mike Ashley, a man Allardyce is all too familiar with, you never know what may happen in the Premier League.

Although he may be looking for work, as a man who considers his ability to be above that of a club like Blackburn Rovers, surely it is only a matter of time before Inter Milan come calling for Big Sam?

Tevez's Terrible Timing

If those of you who thought the infamous "Welcome to Manchester" billboard that was erected when Carlos Tevez arrived at Manchester City was bad taste then the decision of the Argentine international to hand in a transfer request at this stage of the season must be like chewing on a lemon.

Indeed, Tevez's transfer request seems to be very ill-timed and somewhat contradictory given his comments earlier in the week about being happy with life at the City of Manchester stadium.

With Manchester City moving up to second place in the Premier League following a comfortable 3-1 victory at West Ham on Saturday, there seems to be a belief around Eastlands that City could challenge for the title given how open the league has been thus far: only one point separates the top four whilst there are only seven points between eighth place and nineteenth place.

However, the written transfer request comes as a major blow to Man City and it also comes at a bad time for manager Roberto Mancini, who would have had Tevez central to his plans for the Christmas period in which Manchester City would look to push on and prove themselves as worthy and realistic title contenders.

Carlos Tevez and Roberto Mancini share heated words following the substitution of the Argentinian international

Just last week against Bolton, a public spat with Tevez had to be swept under the carpet with the Argentine showing his displeasure at being substituted in the 1-0 win before Mario Balotelli's blatant display of insolence at West Ham, walking straight down the tunnel having been substituted. Tevez, as the club captain, set the precedent with his altercation with the manager and it appears to be one that those with a superstar mentality appear to believe they can follow without consequence.

Baring in mind the incident in the Bolton game, it is interesting to note that one of Tevez's reasons for submitting the request was that his relationships with "certain executives" at the club had "broken down beyond repair". Manchester City have pointed the finger of blame firmly towards Tevez's representative Kia Joorabchin but Tevez has shrugged off such accusations, insisting he wished to leave in the Summer but was persuaded to stay. Things have not changed.

Rumours suggest that Tevez may even retire from football altogether as he has become disillusioned with the game, revealing that he was tired of football and tired of people who work in football.

Tevez's family still live in his native Argentina

Tevez has stated a desire to move back home to Argentina to be with his family as a major factor into his decision to hand in a transfer request. His second daughter, Katia, was born prematurely back in February. Whilst no amount of money can compensate for not watching your children grow up, surely Tevez must have had good reason to commit to Manchester City on a five year deal in the summer of 2009. Perhaps circumstances have changed since then but, nonetheless, the decision to sign a long-term deal appears slightly bewildering.

If Tevez is to leave Manchester City then it would not be a cheap deal as it is doubtful that the club would be willing to let their top scorer leave for a small fee which casts doubt over a move back to South America, where Tevez played for Corinthians and Boca Juniors in the early stages of his career. There are few clubs, if any, in South American football who could afford such a lucrative transfer and none immediately spring to mind.

Statistically, Tevez has an outstanding record at Manchester City with 39 goals in 58 games - that's an average of 0.67 goals per game. However, with that record comes the inevitable claims of over-reliance on the 26 year-old. Whilst this can be true for some games, such as the 3-1 defeat to Lech Poznan in the Europa League, there are occasions where City have proved themselves to be more than fine without him, like on Saturday. With that said, though, you have to think that over the course of a season - or even half a season, as may be the case - Manchester City would be worse off without Tevez in the side and finding a replacement would be difficult if not nigh-on impossible.

Russia's World Cup

On December 2^nd 2010, the hopes of the nation considered to be the “home of football” were crushed as the president of FIFA, Sepp Blatter, announced that Russia would host the 2018 World Cup. The outcry and backlash from the English was swift and full of profanities. “We were robbed,” was the most common reaction with thousands suggesting corruption was a major reason as to why England weren’t awarded the privilege of hosting the 2018 World Cup. “Nobody wants to go to Russia for the World Cup!” they said. FIFA did.

The claims of corruption stink of hypocrisy from the English. Friendlies in Thailand and Trinidad were organised with the assurance of getting a vote in the 2018 bid. Not forgetting to mention the fact that the bid team gave a handbag to each wife of every voting committee member in a ploy to get votes. Perhaps those who criticise should look closer to home before pointing out the faults of others.

Lokomotiv Moscow fans give a distasteful goodbye to Peter Odemwingie

However, one of the flaws in Russian football is the seemingly incessant issue of racism. There have been well-documented incidents of racism within Russian football of late: particularly the banner made by Lokomotiv Moscow fans following the departure of Peter Odemwingie to West Brom. Manchester City’s Jo has also told of the abuse he suffered whilst playing for CSKA Moscow. Perhaps the most alarming incident of all, however, is the story of Zenit St Petersburg under the management of Dick Advocaat, who refused to sign any black players because of the abuse they would suffer at the hands of the Zenit fans.

Whilst it appears that the racism is a massive issue, which it cannot be denied that it is, the most feasible option of getting rid of it is to tackle it. However, it should not be tackled by simply throwing money at it; the best technique is to expose the Russian people to people of differing cultures which will hopefully result in the acceptance of foreigners in Russia and maybe even the acceptance of black players into Russian football. Whilst this is not a certainty, it is a possible solution that deserves a chance to be tested and in bringing the World Cup to Russia, FIFA are doing this.

The Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow will host the 2018 World Cup Final

Another complaint is of the stadia, with only the Luzhniki (78,360), the only stadium in Russia on UEFA’s Elite stadium list, and Gazprom Arena (69,501) having capacities that exceed 50,000. Calls have been made for the capacity of the Luzhniki to be increased to 89,318 as it is to host the final of the World Cup.

There are plans in place to build eight new stadiums in time for 2018 with the Sochi Olympic Stadium also being used for the World Cup. Most of the planned stadia have capacities of about 45,000 which seems to be very low given the magnitude of the competition that is to be held in Russia. Time is on Russia’s side in the bid to have all of the stadia built in time for 2018 and there is no doubt that both the resources and money are there to make it happen.

Given the size of Russia, issues with travel were bound to come up but the cities selected to host matches are clustered together in the western side of the nation. Despite this, a journey from Kazan to Saransk could take eight or nine hours by rail although it has been said that no nation will be required to travel such distance in 2018. A rail network will be set up in time for 2018 with all fans being given free travel. As with the stadia issue, time is on the side of Russia to resolve this issue.

Shameful scenes as Birmingham and Aston Villa fans clash

Doubts were cast upon the 2018 bid of England given the history of hooliganism from the fans; with recent examples coming from only last week as Birmingham and Aston Villa fans clashed after their Carling Cup tie in what looked like a scene from the old days. Other notable instances include Grimsby fans trashing the Pirelli stadium of Burton Albion following their relegation and the violent clashes between fans of local rivals Millwall and West Ham before, during and after their Carling Cup game last season.

That said, the Russians, and Zenit St Petersburg fans in particular, are no angels either. Zenit’s ultras raided a hotel that was hosting Hadjuk Split fans in October this year and left four Croats needing hospital treatment to head injuries. Zenit’s fans have also been accused of several other hooligan attacks in the recent past and, similarly to the racism issue, it is something that needs to be tackled sooner rather than later.

Looking on the brighter side of things, the long-term effect of

the World Cup could be massive for Russia. The money the World Cup will bring in is sure to boost their economy whilst also creating thousands of jobs at the same time, allowing people to be able to provide for their families. It is a similar situation to that of South Africa, host nation of the World Cup earlier this year. The effects of the World Cup cannot be seen immediately as it takes time for the change to be established but, if all goes to plan, it will see the start of a bright period of time for Russia both on and off the field.

Landon Donovan is just one of many Americans who were inspired to play football by the 1994 World Cup in America

In terms of football, it is considered to be a sport for the world. Taking the World Cup to the same places over and over again is repetitive and boring and does not spread the Gospel of the ‘Beautiful Game’. For a country of its size and power, it is surprising that 2018 will be Russia’s first time hosting a World Cup. Although football is not the first sport of Russia, the same was said about America when it was awarded the 1994 World Cup and is an example of the long-term effects that were mentioned earlier. The current American team has players such as Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey and DaMarcus Beasley who weren’t even in their teens in 1994. The World Cup in America will have, no doubt, inspired them to play football and the modern-day American football team is reaping those rewards.

By bringing the World Cup to Russia, FIFA has not only made the right decision but has also laid the foundations for the people of Russia to smash through the thousands of doors of opportunity put up for them by the 2018 World Cup.

Ridiculous Radio

"Ginger Whinger" strikes again

"Arshavin shouldn't have been allowed to back Russia's bid as he plays in England", "Arshavin should be booed at every Premier League ground he goes to", "Arshavin should not be allowed back into England after what he did to us."

Just three quotes taken from the talkSPORT radio station last night following FIFA's decision that the 2018 World Cup would be hosted in Russia. Presenter Adrian Durham was the main culprit, stating on his Drive Time programme that he was "all for booing" Andrei Arshavin when he next plays for Arsenal.

The Ginger Whinger is no stranger to controversy with professional footballers, having called Liverpool's Jamie Carragher a "bottler" upon his decision to retire from international football - a comment he soon retracted when a furious Carragher rang the show demanding that Durham turn up at Melwood, Liverpool's training ground, for a face-to-face confrontation with the Scouser.

Arshavin celebrated the decision in Zurich with Russian dignitaries.

Arshavin, who will be 37 by the time the World Cup goes to Russia, is the captain of his national side and had every right to make a speech on behalf of the Russian World Cup bid at FIFA HQ in Zurich. This move sparked outrage amongst brainless idiots across the nation with Durham being at the forefront of the scathing attack.

After the decision went the way of his country, the 29 year old forward was understandably delighted but remained dignified in the face of what was a great victory for Russia. However, this has not stopped clowns like Durham using him as a scapegoat for England's failed World Cup bid.

It appears that Durham has forgotten about David Beckham's part in England's bid. Beckham was one of the most recognisable English faces who was 'backing the bid' despite playing in America lost out to Qatar in their bid to host the 2022 World Cup.

In light of FIFA's decision, there have been some stupid comments made regarding the outcome but Durham's idiocy tops the lot of them by a long shot.

No doubt the whole nation is holding its collective breath as it awaits Durham to turn his attention to Beckham, expecting an expletive-filled rant where the radio host will presumably order all American "soccer" fans to boo the ex-England talisman and tell him never to return to America for as long as he lives.

England A Part Of The International Second Tier

It was meant to be a new dawn. The night where boys became men, the night where Capello finally got it right; the night where we saw a new England.

Instead, the 85,494 people at Wembley were served up nothing more than a timely reminder that England's place on the International stage is firmly in and amongst the second-rate sides.

The jeers rang around Wembley stadium at both half and full-time, the discontent lingering like a bad smell, as those in attendance showed their displeasure at being forced to sit through 90 minutes of the same old England. Tolerance amongst the Three Lions' faithful is running low.

This friendly was a test to see how well the respective rebuilding processes have gone for Capello and his counterpart, Laurent Blanc, since England and France were embarrassed in South Africa at the World Cup. On the evidence provided, it is clear that France's rehabilitation has been a lot more successful than England's.

Blanc has taken over a now resurgent France side who appear to be rejuvenated under his guidance. They were a far cry from the team that finished bottom of their World Cup group with barely a whimper under Raymond Domenech.

Samir Nasri dominated proceedings in midfield and showed why he has become a key asset for Arsenal this season whilst there were promising signs that Paris Saint Germain's centre back Mamadou Sakho can become a rock at the heart of the France defence despite being the tender age of 20.

Capello's squad selection for the game could have loosely been described as baffling. For every Andy Carroll, Jordan Henderson and Jack Wilshere there was a Jay Bothroyd, Carlton Cole and Gareth Barry. Most England fans were pointing fingers towards Bothroyd and Cole, all asking the same question. Why?

Choosing a second-tier striker shows just how heavily England's fall from grace has been. Would strikers from the second-tier of Spain, Brazil and Germany get a look in with the national side? I highly doubt it. It was a move that smacked of desperation and Bothroyd himself did little to justify his selection though he did only play for twenty minutes; Cole didn't even get onto the field and Barry was substituted at half-time.

As well as some ridiculous squad choices, Capello's tactics also defied belief at times. Deploying a centre half, Phil Jagielka, at right back against a quality winger like Florent Malouda was asking for trouble whilst the omission of Bolton's Gary Cahill from the defence was as mystifying as how Ben Foster allowed Karim Benzema's shot to beat him at his near post to give France an early lead at Wembley.

Whilst there were positive displays from Andy Carroll and Jordan Henderson, the pair remain in the bracket of rough diamonds though there is clearly potential to be worked with. Wilshere is showing maturity beyond his years for Arsenal and it is only a matter of time before that is brought to the England side. Carroll was given little service or support up top and struggled at times but did not do himself any harm. In comparison, Henderson struggled on his debut but should be back on the international scene sooner rather than later.

Peter Crouch's superb late volley merely masked England's frailties after Mathieu Valbuena's goal that doubled the French lead ten minutes after the break turned out to be the winner. Following a fine move that started inside the French half, Arsenal full-back Bacary Sagna was given the freedom of Wembley before crossing for the Marseille midfielder to bag his second international goal.

England offered little throughout and now even the most hardened England fan must surely be able to see that England are light years behind the likes of Germany, Spain, Argentina and Brazil on the world stage and that is a fact that is not changing for the foreseeable future.

Doing Things The Holloway

The teams, they are a-changin'. Not quite Bob Dylan but Ian Holloway will hope for mercy from the Premier League when the decision whether or not to fine Blackpool for making 10 changes to their side against Aston Villa in midweek is revealed.

Despite putting in a great effort at Villa Park, the Tangerines lost the match 3-2 when they arguably deserved something from the game. Had they come away with one point or even all three it could be argued that Holloway would not be under such scrutiny for making wholesale changes to his side.

However, this situation is not unprecedented. Last season, Wolves were fined by the Premier League for fielding a "weakened" side in a game which they lost against Manchester United. Mick McCarthy's men won their next game which appeared to justify his decision but the Premier League stuck to the rulebook and fined the club £25,000.

A common argument put forward by fans of "smaller" Premier League clubs, like Wolves, is that the "Big Four" can field weakened sides without facing the same consequences. Whilst it appears to be a petty argument upon scratching the surface of it, proof of it being correct can be easily found.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson made 10 changes to his side on the final day of the 2008/09 season against Hull City in preparation for the Champions League final. Although the result went the way of United, a loss would have evoked outrage from both Middlesbrough and Newcastle - two clubs involved in the relegation battle alongside Hull.

In a similar event, Rafael Benitez - then manager of Liverpool - made nine changes to his team ahead of a Champions League final against AC Milan. In this case, however, Liverpool lost 1-0 to boost Fulham's chances of survival, sparking a furious tirade from Neil Warnock, who was in the thick of a relegation battle with Sheffield United. Come the end of the season, the Blades were relegated on goal difference whilst Fulham stayed up by a point. The consequences of Benitez's team selection were disastrous for Sheffield United yet there was no punishment for the Merseyside team.

The general consensus seems to be that Blackpool should be fined in order for the Premier League to maintain consistency in their decisions but the only thing the Premier League are consistent about is being inconsistent.

Holloway's justification for making the changes is likely to fall upon deaf ears when the final decision is made but he makes a lot of fair points. He hasn't shuffled his pack, so to speak, that often in league games; instead opting for a consistent line-up since the 4-0 win at Wigan on the opening day rather than chopping and changing week-in, week-out to get as many points on the board as quickly as possible to ensure survival.

The pace of the Premier League is faster than that of the Championship - the latter being a standard of football most of Holloway's squad will be accustomed to which will inevitably lead to fatigue and injury. With his side having to play four games in the short space of 12 days, Holloway is merely being pragmatic with his resources.

Holloway himself has claimed that he will resign as manager if Blackpool are fined for making the changes; an over-reaction, perhaps, but a clear message that he will not tolerate being told what he can and can't do by the footballing powers that be.

"We deserved at least a point and how dare anybody tell me the players I've been working with, I can't treat them with respect and give them a chance. If some bright spark from the Premier League wants to tell me who I can pick then come and have a cup of coffee and you'll probably get it chucked in your lap.

Let them try and fine me, it's an absolute disgrace. I'll show the Premier League. We were a credit to football, and let the Premier League try to tell me otherwise."

Other Premier League managers have offered their support to Holloway.

"I think it should be left to the manager of the football club to decide what team they pick, and nobody else. Who is to say the other 10 players he left out would have done as well as the 10 that played?" said Stoke boss Tony Pulis.

Fulham manager Mark Hughes added, "I think it'd be wrong if people start stepping in and telling managers who they should be picking."

Given the introduction of the 25-man squad rule over the Summer, the Premier League appear to be contradicting themselves with the inevitable fine waiting to be revealed. Football has been a squad game for a long time due to fatigue and injuries so if the Premier League are trying to tell managers who they can and can't pick for their side then is there any point in having a squad at all?

Bury 0-1 Tranmere

Tranmere booked their place in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy Northern Section semi-finals with a hard-fought victory over League Two side Bury at Gigg Lane.

Manager Les Parry made four changes to the side that was beaten 5-3 at Bournemouth, with Ian Goodison being rested completely whilst Joe Collister, Dale Jennings and Max Blanchard dropped to the bench as they were replaced by Jermaine Grandison, Peter Gulasci, Lucas Akins and Zoumana Bakayogo as Tranmere started with a 4-4-2 formation.

The home side had every right to feel confident heading into the game on the back of a 2-0 win against another League One side, Exeter City, in the FA Cup last Saturday but backed by over 500 travelling fans, the away side started the brighter with the early pressure paying off as Bury's goalkeeper flapped at an Enoch Showunmi cross before the ball fell to veteran striker Ian Thomas-Moore, who controlled the ball before volleying it into the net past two defenders on the goal-line to become Tranmere's top scorer with his seventh goal of the campaign.

In a half of few chances, it was very much defences on top in the first 45 minutes as both sides struggled to test the opposition goalkeeper though Joss Labadie's goalbound effort was brilliantly saved by the young Branagan in the Shakers' goal whilst Peter Gulasci turned Nicky Ajose's shot round the post in the early stages.

As with the first half, Tranmere dominated the opening of the second half, containing their opponents well before creating chances with Thomas-Moore coming closest in hitting the bar though he was adjudged to have been offside after being put through by strike partner Showunmi as the pair continued to combine to good effect for Rovers.

However, the home side grew into the game and started testing Gulasci as he saved well from Lenell John-Lewis' header before Showunmi brought a good save from Branagan following a mazy solo run that began in his own half. The Nigerian was replaced by Sam Morrow with 7 minutes remaining and appeared to be carrying an injury which will worry both the manager and the fans.

Full-backs Tim Cathalina and Zoumana Bakayogo had to cope with livewires Ajose and Haworth down either wing as the hosts pressed for an equaliser but it was to no avail for the tricky wingers as the Tranmere rearguard, Marlon Broomes in particular, held firm for a clean sheet to put the Whites within 3 games of Wembley with a tie against Huddersfield, Carlisle, Sheffield Wednesday or Hartlepool lying in wait.

Jennings Destined For Great Things

When Dale Jennings burst onto the scene against Charlton on September 18th, little under two months ago, few would have predicted that his rise to prominence amongst the Tranmere Rovers squad would come so soon.

Since his debut, Jennings has grown into a key asset for Tranmere despite playing only ten games for the first team. His first goal for the club came away to Bristol Rovers; the only goal in a 1-0 win for Tranmere. He followed that up a month later with a brace against MK Dons in a man of the match performance to celebrate being given his first professional contract which runs until 2012.

Upon signing the contract, Jennings said, "It is a great day for me, all apprentices dream of the day they sign their first professional contract. I'm really pleased the club has given me this opportunity and hopefully I can repay them on the pitch."

The seventeen year-old top-scored for the reserve and youth teams after joining Tranmere's Centre of Excellence as an under-sixteen with nineteen goals and already has five goals for the reserve team this campaign.

With blistering pace to go with trickery, Jennings has the key assets to make a good winger as proven against MK Dons when right-back Danny Woodards was withdrawn after twenty-five minutes due to being unable to cope with Jennings - a testament to his performance that day.

Whilst being a fresh new talent, there is an air of unpredicability surrounding Jennings for the opposition. However, the real test of his talent is to come as, over the coming weeks as teams begin to learn about Dale, he will need to find new ways of beating his man and contributing to the team success.

If he is doubled-up on, it leaves space for another player elsewhere on the field which can only benefit Tranmere so even if he doesn't have an impact on the game with his feet then his movement could also be key for the Whites.

As Dale progresses he will attract scouts from clubs across the land and he would do well to keep his feet on the ground given the hype surrounding him. He would do well to listen to an experienced professional like Ian Thomas-Moore, a veteran of the game in comparison to most of the Tranmere squad, to improve his all-round game.

Some Tranmere fans say it is about time we had another quality player come off the production line as the days of Ryan Taylor, Jason Koumas and Iain Hume are long-gone for the Wirral club. If Jennings can realise his potential he will surely demand a large fee and emulate the successes of the likes of Taylor and Koumas.

Apology

Just a general apology for not posting a blog for a few months!

I've been busy with schoolwork since September and I couldn't find the motivation to write throughout August due to personal issues.

I hope to be able to blog at least once a week, if there are specific requests as to what you, the readers, want me to write about then feel free to suggest it to me!

Everton Must Seize Their Moment Of Opportunity Or Accept Their Place In The Shadows

This Sunday Liverpool take on Everton in the 214th Merseyside derby, a game that was referred to as The Friendly Derby for years before common sense prevailed and people realised it was anything but a friendly encounter.

Liverpool's short trip to Goodison Park this weekend provides the best chance for Everton to get a league victory against their bitter rivals since the 2006/07 season when an Andy Johnson brace helped the Blues on their way to a comfortable 3-0 win.

The Reds have suffering from a string of poor performances, off-field turmoil and long-term discontent amongst the Anfield faithful with the current hierarchy at the club; though the latter could be resolved sooner rather than later despite the threat of administration hanging ominously over Anfield.

Everton last finished above Liverpool in league in the 2004/05 season but that feat was eclipsed that very same season as their neighbours became European Champions for a fifth time after a famous victory over AC Milan in the Ataturk Stadium, Istanbul.

Their last victory, of course, came in the FA Cup 4th Round Replay at Goodison Park as Dan Gosling's 118th minute winner, made infamous by ITV, sent the Everton faithful into delirium. The Blues went on to make the FA Cup final at Wembley before losing 2-1 to Chelsea.

Since 2005 the Toffees have fallen behind their rivals with the likes of Fernando Torres and Javier Mascherano widening the gulf in class between the two clubs. But, more recently, the departure of Mascherano added to the decline of Liverpool's talisman Steven Gerrard and constant injuries to Torres have played their part in the clubs arguably being as evenly matched as they've ever been.

It could be said that Everton would have finished above Liverpool last season were it not for a horribly long injury list with key players like Mikel Arteta and Phil Jagielka missing for a lot of the season but, despite an extremely poor season by the usual high standards, Liverpool just about kept the bragging rights; finishing a mere two points above Everton although the Reds had lost two more league games.

Both clubs have endured miserable starts to the season and lie in 17th and 18th place with only goal difference separating the two. Liverpool, under new management, suffered a shock home loss to Blackpool in their worst result of the season so far whilst Everton took seven games to get their first league win before finally beating Birmingham City 2-0 at St Andrews.

Not only does this game give Everton a chance to claim the bragging rights for the fans, it also gives the club, as a whole, the opportunity to bring the pendulum swinging across Stanley Park and in the direction of Goodison Park. Should the Blues finish above Liverpool this season, the balance of power could take a long time to shift back towards Anfield.

On the face of things, this looks set to be one of the worst Merseyside derby for years given the circumstances both clubs find themselves in but it could yet be one of the most interesting.

Prioritise The Paint Pot!

After Tranmere Rovers defeated Stockport County via a penalty shoot-out to book their place in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy Northern Section Quarter Finals away at Bury, a trip to Wembley loomed in the distant horizon.

Traditionally, the Johnstone's Paint Trophy is regarded as a waste of time by many and it tends to be a competition for youth players and reserves to get some competitive game-time under their belts but overlooking the competition is, in my opinion, a missed opportunity.

A good run in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy will add a bit of money to the club account and although it isn't a massive amount, for clubs in League One and Two who consistently make a loss, every bit of money you can get really helps.

Obviously a run in the Carling Cup or FA Cup is preferable to lower league clubs as the financial rewards are higher given the quality of opposition available but the Johnstone's Paint Trophy provides League One and Two clubs with a realistic chance of getting to Wembley given that it is a level playing field of sorts.

Granted, it is seen as a worthless trophy to have but try telling that to the fans of MK Dons, Luton Town and Southampton, who will have enjoyed a fantastic day out at Wembley to see their team win silverware.

Whilst it may not be the most prestigius of tournaments, the Johnstone's Paint Trophy is something to be respected, not dismissed.

Adios, Madridista

"There are many men who form part of the legend of Real Madrid, but few that are chosen to embody the club – Raúl is one of those."

Kind words from Florentino Perez, a man who is more accustomed to talking about players arriving at Real Madrid as opposed to leaving but at the Bernabéu, Raúl González Blanco cannot be talked of highly enough.

A Real Madrid stalwart, Raúl served Los Blancos for 18 years in total. An icon of the Bernabéu, he scored 323 goals in 741 games for Real and won 16 trophies during his career at Madrid.

Despite becoming a bit-part player, Raúl did not complain but instead got on with it and did his best. Even when played out of position, you could depend on Raúl to give 100%. It's the kind of person he is - a model professional.

Never one to complain, Raúl's attitude is the antithesis to that of many a modern day footballer.

During the original Galacticos era in Madrid, Raúl was there as a foundation upon which Madrid built their empire and he was still there in phase two when he refused to hand over his famous number 7 shirt to Cristiano Ronaldo.

It is a shame for both Raúl and Real that his illustrious career looks set to end outside of Madrid. It seemed to many like Raúl would become a rarity of the modern game in playing for only one club throughout his career but it was not to be as he looks set to join a club in Germany, probably Schalke, or in England where Tottenham, Newcastle and Blackburn are reportedly battling over his signature.

An integral part of one of Madrid's most successful sides in the club's history, Raúl is both Real Madrid's top marksman but also the player with the most appearances in the famous all white strip.

Although replaced in the first team, nobody will ever dethrone Raúl as King Of The Bernabéu.

"Being a Real Madrid player is the greatest dream you can imagine. Today, more than ever, I want everybody to know that in every move, dribble, turn or gesture on the field of play, I tried to give the best I could."

Raúl Gonzaléz Blanco