NFL Season Preview: The NFC

On September 5th the New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys in the opening game for the 2012 NFL Season. A lot of teams have high aspirations and dare to dream big as they all have their eye on the Super Bowl next year in New Orleans, February 3rd 2013. This can be said for a lot of teams in the NFC as there are many high quality franchises in this conference. Here we will preview all the teams within the 4 divisions as well as their chances for the forthcoming season.

NFC East 

We start with the NFC East, probably one of if not the most competitive division in the NFL for the forthcoming season which includes two teams looking to re-establish themselves after falling short despite having high hopes last year, the other two include the current Super Bowl Champions and one with a new franchise QB drafted at number 2 overall.

Washington Redskins:

The Redskins have endured tough times in the last two decades. Since 1992, the Redskins have made only three postseason appearances and four seasons with a winning record but now they have Robert Griffin III at the Quarterback position as he looks to relight the hopes of a city. In a tough division with 3 other big post-season contenders the Redskins Mike Shanahan's team are still likely to finish 4th in the division especially as RG3 doesn't have many major receiving threats to his name besides free agency signing Pierre Garcon who looks to have a breakout season as well. Ryan Kerrigan and Brian Orakpo are strong outside Linebackers which offers Washington something on defense, RG3 will definitely bring a spark to the league like Cam Newton did in 2011 and this team has the potential to compete in future seasons but for this campaign it' set to be a learning curve for RG3 and co.

Prediction: 6-10, 4th in the NFC East.

Philadelphia Eagles

The 2011 NFL Season for the Eagles was a major disappointment, as they only managed to finish 8-8 and did not qualify for the playoffs. Last year the Eagles were the self-proclaimed "Dream Team" but by finishing with a record that saw them fail to make the playoffs Head Coach Andy Reid and his team have a lot to prove to the world. Quarterback Michael Vick is the man holding the keys to this team’s success, he put up impressive numbers last season and has a strong as well as speedy receivers, most notable DeSean Jackson who also has a lot to prove following a big contract signing this off-season. With that being said Vick is prone to injury, the bumps and bruises assisted to Philadelphia's downfall last season and number 7 needs to do his best to carry on playing smart in order to remain healthy which will put the Eagles in contention to win the NFC East and set up a strong playoff run as the team look to win their first ever Super Bowl.

Prediction: 11-5, 1st in the NFC East.

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys head in to the NFL 2012 Season with high hopes just like their fellow divisional rivals. It's quarterback Tony Romo's 6th year as the starting QB for the team as he looks to prove doubters wrong. The Cowboys finished 8-8 last year and were on the brink of the playoffs before losing on the final day of the regular season in New Jersey to the Giants 31-14 seeing them eliminated and New York through with the rest being history. During this off season the Cowboys have improved their roster especially on defence with two big additions to the squad at Cornerback, Brandon Carr was signed in free agency and first round draft pick Maurice Claiborne has the potential to form a great partnership with Carr. If Claiborne can learn from Carr and they do more than just cover the opposing receivers it will give Dallas more opportunities to blitz and put pressure on the QB. If the pieces go in to place Dallas could make the playoffs and from there on it is anybody’s game.

Prediction: 9-7, tied for 2nd in the NFC East.

New York Giants

The New York Giants are probably the least talked about Super Bowl winning team ever. With Tebowmania going on just around the corner, see it was even mentioned here, the off-season for the Giants has gone by quietly. The defending Champions exited the playoffs at the first hurdle when they attempted to defend their title back in the 2008 season, after going 9-7 last season Tom Coughlin will hope to win the division again but with a better record. This will be achieved if Big Blue stay injury free especially as Quarterback Eli Manning is getting better with each season as he establishes himself as one of the best around especially when it matters, in the playoffs he threw 9 touchdowns for 1219 yards with only one interception in the Giants 4 games. While Eli and co on offense are a good unit the Giants D is full of stars and no other shines brighter then Jason Pierre-Paul who had a monster season last year with 16.5 sacks, now that the sophomore has a better grasp at the mental and physical parts of playing in the national football league opposing teams better beware of this freakishly athletic defensive end. If they make the playoffs the Giants have the potential to go all the way but with a tough division, teams gunning for them now that they are Champions and the fact of how difficult it is to win the Lombardi trophy back to back it is doubtful that New York will see another championship in this coming season.

Prediction: 9-7 tied for 2nd in the NFC East.

NFC North

Like their NFC counter parts over in the East the NFC North has teams full of talent making it very competitive. The NFC North hosts three teams out of the four who have a genuine shot to go deep in to the playoffs if they can make it past this tough division and maybe reach the Super Bowl.

Chicago Bears

Da Bears have added the pieces to a team that appeared to be Super Bowl contenders last season. In 2011 Chicago lined up 7-3 before Quarterback Jay Cutler went down with a fractured thumb and influential running back Matt Forte also was a victim to injury. The injuries led to a 5 game losing streak before they finished 8-8 and missed out on the playoffs but now it appears the Bears are ready to give their big division rivals the Green Bay Packers a run for their money. Cutler put up potential MVP numbers last season throwing 13 touchdowns for 2319 yards and only 7 interceptions in the team’s first 10 games as he noticeably improved his game before getting injured and now that he has his old friend Brandon Marshall at wide receiver following his move from Miami the great partnership the two shared in Denver has been renewed. This familiarity adds to the other addition at receiver in the form of rookie Alshon Jeffrey who could have a break out year. With the likes of Cutler, Forte and now Marshall in the offense as well as having a defense which is still championship caliber and includes the likes of Julius Peppers if the Bears can make it in to the playoffs they could have a good run in the post-season.

Prediction: 9-7, 3rd in the NFC North.

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions finished 10-6 last season as they put past demons behind them to establish themselves as a future force in the NFL. The Lions made the playoffs last season for the first time since 1999 before falling 45-28 to the Saints in the WildCard game. Quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson pretty much hold all the hopes to a successful season for the Lions, both had very impressive campaigns in 2011 with Stafford becoming the one of only 4 NFL Quarterbacks to throw over 5,000 yards in a single season. As well as the 5038 yards thrown by Stafford he put up an amazing 41 touchdowns with 16 interceptions thrown as the now 4th year QB proved he can mix it with the best. The Lions other main weapon is Megatron as he is widely known, he's proved that he is one of if not the best in the league at his position with his unique skill set of size, hands, speed, strength and leaping ability. Now Megatron looks to back up the $132 million pound contract he earned by putting up equally good numbers as last season if not better, 1681 receiving yards with 16 touchdowns. The offense will carry the Lions as the defence has not seen much change and had its weaknesses exposed at the tail-end of last season by the Packers and Saints but Ndamukong Suh is a beast for the D and can cause any offense troubles if he puts up the impressive numbers he's shown in his short time in the NFL as the defensive tackle finished with 14 sacks in 2011. If everything goes to plan for this exciting young Lions team they could have another shot at the playoffs come January.

Prediction: 10-6, 2nd in the NFC North.

Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers went in to last season as defending champions, after the regular season finished they had the best record in the league as they ended up with a record of 15-1. Quarterback Aaron Rogers won the NFL MVP Award and produced one of the best statistical seasons in NFL history which won him the award, he threw 4643 yards in 15 games with saw him throw 45 touchdowns and only get picked off 6 times giving him the best passer rating in NFL history. With a great defence adding to the impressive offense which now includes running back Cedric Benson who will offer the Packers something different on the ground making them dangerous not just in the air. But for that to happen the likes of rookie Linebacker Nick Perry need to step up as players like him look to help Green Bay improve on their only weakness from 2011 which was their lack of pass rush, if he can get at the Quarterback this will enable Clay Matthews to get free as well and assist plus do what he does best which is play overall great defence. If all goes well Green Bay have got a great chance of being Super Bowl champions come February.

Prediction: 12-4, 1st in the NFC North.

Minnesota Vikings 

The Minnesota Vikings are in one of if not the toughest division in the NFC. They line up against 3 teams that potentially all have a shot at the Super Bowl. The Vikes dream of reaching the Super Bowl but the big game has eluded them since the 70s and this is despite various playoff runs with the most recent being in 2009 regular season when they lost the NFC Championship game to the Saints. At that time they had future Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre leading them, now times have changed and second year Quarterback Christian Ponder looks to help the team improve on its 3-13 record from last year. He has good receiving weapons in WR Percy Harvin and Tight End Kyle Rudolph plus they have the return of Jerome Simpson to look forward too, once he is back at wide receiver this will give superstar running back Adrian Peterson the chance to light in up in the backfield and open up the offense. All in all this season is just another part of the rebuilding process for the Vikings.

Prediction: 4-12, 4th in NFC North

NFC South

The NFC south is a division full of excitement and controversy. This off-season saw one team given huge penalties after a bounty scandal while the other 3 look to put the pieces in to place to try and have a successful campaign in the upcoming season.

New Orleans Saints

The New Orleans Saints have had an off-season full of troubles as it was revealed that the team maintained a "pay for performance" program in the 2009, 2010 and 2011 seasons. This bounty scandal overshadowed the Saints Super Bowl win in 2009 and has put a chip on the teams shoulders as the likes of Head Coach Sean Payton received lengthy bans. Payton misses out on the whole season whereas interim Head Coach Joe Vitt misses the first 6 games before returning. No matter what's happened the Saints have one of the best Quarterbacks in the league in Drew Brees, he threw for an NFL record of 5,476 passing yards last year which included an amazing 46 touchdown passes to only 14 interceptions. With Brees' outstanding ability and with him coming of one of the best seasons in his career the Saints will always be a threat, the offense are deep and talented at every position but Brees will still hope they remain healthy as New Orleans look to prove the world wrong by reaching the Super Bowl, which will be held in Louisiana, and attempt to restore some credibility to the franchise.

Prediction: 10-6, 2nd in the NFC South.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Bucs are another team in a transition period but by acquiring 2 of the top 3 free agents in the free agency period  the $140 million dollars spent on three big names players show that Tampa Bay are hoping to get back to mixing it with the best. Along with Cornerback Eric Wright and Offensive Guard Carl Nicks being signed the other big name signing was Vincent Jackson who has made an immediate impact on and off the field. Jackson's skill set might allow 4th year QB Josh Freeman to develop further at his position. New Head Coach Greg Schiano is a true leader and has already started to change this Tampa Bay team as he looks to continue with "The Buccaneer Way". Despite all the positives only so much can be done in so little time so Schiano may have to wait a bit before he sees his changes produce results on the field especially as the NFC South is a very competitive division.

Prediction: 5-11, 4th in NFC South

Carolina Panthers

There's lots of reason to be excited in Carolina and that comes down to one main... Cam Newton. Last season he was the man carrying all the expectation following the NFL Draft which saw him drafted as the number 1 overall pick by the Panthers. He lived up to the hype but not just in week 1 when he threw over 400 yards, breaking Peyton Manning's old regular season opener rookie record, and two touchdown passes in a narrow loss to the Cardinals or in week 2 when he tore up the Green Bay Packers defence in another narrow loss, a game which saw Newton set a Franchise record 432 passing yards in a game, but Newton continued to impress throughout the whole season for the Panthers. He finished with 21 touchdown passes and 17 interceptions with over 4000 passing yards all very impressive for a rookie QB, Newton also showed off his versatility during the season by rushing for a record 14 TD's by a Quarterback. The Panthers may have finished 6-10 but they came 3rd and will continue to take greater strides this coming season as Ron Rivera's team look to add good defense to an explosive offense which also includes running back DeAngelo Williams. Linebacker Jon Beason is the main man on defence who can help propel this team, providing he stays fit, in to a playoff spot despite being in a tough division. If all goes to plan Newton and co could be taking their new found belief to the post-season come 2013.

Prediction: 8-8, 3rd in NFC South.

Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons are an impressive and well organised team. Sadly for the fans of the Falcons the team's luck seems to only last in the regular season. Atlanta has been one of the best franchises in the last 4 years which is mainly down to Head Coach Mike Smith and Quarterback Matt Ryan but now the time has really come for the Falcons to move to the next level. Since the start of the 2008 season, the Falcons have recorded four consecutive winning seasons for the first time in their history and they lead the NFC in number of wins during that period with 43. Mike Smith’s 43-21 regular-season record in that span is the fifth-best in the league but despite the impressive stats which include qualifying for the playoffs in 2008, 2010 and 2011 in all three of those seasons they lost in the first round. Matt Ryan and co need that playoff win, the team itself is well shaped to do so as they have improved in the off-season with the most notable signing being Asante Samuel at Cornerback. Wide receiver Julio Jones showed last season that he has all the attributes to be one of the best in the league at his position, he led all rookies in touchdown receptions in 2011 with 8. This is his breakout year and if he achieves what is expected of him the Falcons offense will be dangerous as Matt Ryan will have a valuable wide receiving threat with Michael Turner able to do damage on the ground. The Falcons should be fine from September to December but come January will their skill turn in to luck as they look to move deeper in to the post-season.

Prediction: 11-5, 1st in NFC South.

NFC West 

Not that any division in the NFL is easy especially in today's NFC but this is the weakest of the 4 divisions, one team has a legitimate Super Bowl shot while the rest battle against each other to try and cause them problems.

San Francisco 49ers

Head Coach Jim Harbaugh and his staff transformed this team 49ers team in to an NFL heavyweight in 2011. Harbaugh's Midas touch took the team within a few plays of the Super Bowl last season and now that expectations are sky-high the big game is the target for San Francisco. Harbaugh's lucky to have one of the NFL's most talented rosters, the 49ers defense is Super Bowl caliber as it gets at all types of offenses with physicality and tenacity. Offense is where the questions lie and Quarterback Alex Smith is the main man trying to put those questions to bed, he's been through up and downs in his NFL career as the former number 1 overall pick endured shoulder problems as well as many people doubting his ability. Smith contributed to the 49ers successful season in 2011 with by throwing 17 touchdowns for only 5 interceptions whilst passing over 3000 yards, his best season to date. In the playoffs he threw 5 touchdowns, 2 in the narrow 20-17 loss to the Giants in the NFC Championship game and 3 in the memorable win over the Saints in which he threw the winning pass with 9 seconds remaining. This 49ers team only weakness was their lack of depth at receiver but that has been fixed this off-season with the additions of Randy Moss, Mario Manningham and rookie A.J. Jenkins. Smith now has the weapons he needs to improve and to be on par with the teams D, they also have a good running game with the likes of Gore and Jacobs in the backfield. If Smith takes care of the ball and the team plays how everyone knows they can, especially the coach, then the 49ers could go a step further and reach the Super Bowl come February.

Prediction: 12-4, 1st in the NFC West.

Arizona Cardinals

The Cards have endured many troubled years in the NFL and have the longest active championship drought in the league. Since that Super Bowl in the 2008-2009 season Arizona have gone back to losing ways, following former Quarterback Kurt Warner's retirement they signed former Eagle Kevin Kolb to a big money contract but so far that hasn't paid off. Following Kolb's injury halfway through last season Jon Skelton emerged and led the team to 5-2 in his time as Cardinals starting QB. Skelton has been chosen as the starting QB for the opening game against the Seahawks, if the third year man can continue to improve and get the ball to the talented Larry Fitzgerald then the underrated defense of the Cardinals could help this football team win games as the likes of Left Tackle Levi Brown return to the D making them stronger. The defense is playoff ready but with an unpredictable offense it's doubtful the Cards will pull of any surprises as they can at least hope to try and sneak in to the post-season as a wildcard.

Prediction: 5-11, 4th in the NFC West.

Seattle Seahawks:

Seattle had its second successive 7-9 season in the NFC West last season. The difference this time being that they missed out on the playoffs, it was in 2010 where the Seahawks became the first team to reach the post-season with a losing record and the first team to win a playoff game with a losing record. The teams troubles lay on offense, with no franchise QB standing out for Seattle the battle for the starting jobs being contested between third round pick Russell Wilson and free agency acquisition Matt Flynn. Following intense competition between the two during pre-season Head Coach Pete Carroll announced that Russell Wilson will be the starting QB for week 1, Wilson's athleticism and burst adds another dimension to the offense. Running back Marshawn Lynch is the main man for the offense though and has had two great seasons in a row for Seattle. He rushed for over 100 yards in 6 of the team's last 9 games in 2011 and he'll need to do the likes of this all season long for the Seahawks to have a chance of reaching the playoffs. The defense is physical up front and has some great players in the secondary, it isn't far behind the 49ers D and will always give the Seahawks a chance at winning games so if the offense can get something going maybe this team can get a wildcard spot.

Prediction: 8-8, 2nd in the NFC West.

St. Louis Rams

Following a 2-14 season in 2011 and just missing out on the playoffs the year before St. Louis is a tough place to be at the moment. The Rams lost their best wide receiver Brandon Lloyd so Quarterback Sam Bradford has less weapons in his offense. This team is still in a rebuilding era and has even had rumors about it being relocated which wasn't helped by the 3 year deal to play games in London. The saving grace for the Rams is that Jeff Fisher is the new Head Coach, he is great and has brought optimism on and off the field already. He has a QB with lots of potential in Bradford and despite having a tough task in getting this team back to winning ways they will make improvements under his leadership, Bradford himself will also improve and if he manages to have an injury free season with some protection from his O-line this team may get some need found belief if they start winning some football games especially in a division where they could have a shot at sneaking in to a wildcard position.

Prediction: 6-10, 3rd in the NFC West.

The NFC proves to bring us a very close season within the conference, it will be tough for all teams involved but it will also bring a lot of excitement for fans of the NFL. The road to Louisiana begins this Thursday night, let the games begin.

Spain Vs Italy. Euro 2012 Final. Can Italy end Spain's reign?

 

      

This Sunday sees defending champions Spain take on Italy in the Euro 2012 final. These European Championships have been exciting as well as being somewhat unpredictable as the likes of Holland and Russia along with co-hosts Poland and Ukraine fell at the first hurdle. It was Portugal who progressed from the groups ahead of the unimpressive Dutch who finished on 0 points and the Portuguese reached the semi-finals following a 1-0 with over the Czech Republic. In the second quarter final Greece dared to surprise everyone again before losing 4-2 to Germany. Spain easily beat a lacklustre France 2-0 in their quarter final match before edging out Portugal in the semis on penalties following a goalless 120 minutes. England briefly defied the odds as they topped Group D before coming face to face with penalties again ending in defeat to the Italians, this set up last night’s second semi-final between the Germans and the Italians where Mario Balotelli stole the show in the Azzurri's 2-1 win to ensure their unbeaten run over Germany in competitive football, 4 wins 4 draws 0 defeats, and ensure that the Germans didn't conquer Eastern Europe again.

It's fair to say that these two teams deserve to be in the final as both have played attractive football and produced when it has mattered most. The Italians have had their critics especially early on but manager Cesare Prandelli has introduced an attacking mentality to the side that not many Italy teams have possessed in years gone by. In last night's win over Germany, Andrea Pirlo stole the show again but his supporting cast of De Rossi, Montolivo and Marchisio played their part as the 4 midfielders outclassed the likes of Schweinsteiger and Ozil. They defended like many great past Italian sides in the second half but still looked dangerous on the break and should have finished the game off during the closing stages. 

Italy have eased their way in to the tournament as they got through their group with 1-1 draws against Spain and Croatia with the final group match ending in a 2-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland. It was in that game against Ireland where we first saw Balotelli's brilliance but that was briefly, last night Super Mario was fantastic. His first goal was a well taken header whereas the second was arguably goal of the tournament as following great movement he broke through the German defence before smashing home from 20 yards. The Italians slow improvement as the Euros have reached the latter stages has been vintage stuff from them and their class has been clear for everyone to see following their performances against England and Germany in the knockouts. The Azzurri has a habit of either bowing out of competitions early or reaching the business end of it. In 11 World Cups after progressing from the groups they have won 4 out of the 6 finals they've reached meaning they have finished as runners up twice. The other 5 times have seen them finish 3rd place in 1990, 4th in 1978 with the other 3 ending in one quarter final defeat and two round of 16 defeats. They have only won the Euros once previously which was back in 1968, the World Cup before that in 66' saw them out in the groups which also happened in 2010 and now they are 2012 finalists so omens are with the Italians along with their great pedigree in tournament football for this Sunday's final.

The Spanish, like the Italians, have slowly eased their way in to the tournament as the matches have gone on. They finished top of Group C with 7 out of 9 points, scoring 6 goals. They drew against Italy 1-1 in their opening game before destroying Ireland 4-0 and edging out Croatia 1-0. The performance over France was impressive as well as dominant but Thursday's game saw them endure some nervy moments against Portugal before their triumph on penalties. The manner in which they won the game may have been cruel as Fabregas' penalty hit the inside of the post before beating Rui Patricio but great sides win tough matches and this Spanish side is beyond great as they look to become the first international team to win three straight major tournaments in a row. If they achieve this then they are arguably and quite possible the greatest international football side ever.

The Spanish's tiki-taka style of football is breath-taking to watch and since the teams victory in Euro 2012 they had the world observing in awe, further success continued at the 2010 World Cup but some people are beginning to brand the football as boring. It consists of mainly keeping hold of possession where the whole team, mainly midfielders, base the teams play on movement and roaming with quick, sharp one or two touch passing. One of its main focuses is also moving the ball in intricate patterns with positional interchange. The Spanish may not have the great footballing history that the Italian's possess but this particular style of play has captured the imagination of football and revolutionised football as teams look to find a way of recreating the "Spanish way" or finding a way to counter tiki-taka and with their current crop of extraordinary talented players nobody would be shocked if Spain were to make history this Sunday by beating Italy, especially as Del Bosque has won 50 matches out of the 60 he has took charge Spain's manager.

One thing is for sure, Sunday's match should be entertaining for all football fans around the world. The Italians are the only team to score against Spain so far in the Euro's when Antonio Di Natale put Italy 1-0 up before Cesc Fabregas equalised in the team’s 1-1 draw. Italy don't quite equal the Spanish in terms of class but they are well organised, they have lots of heart and the likes of Pirlo and Balotelli can turn the game in any given moment. Spain have a whole team full of match winners but without a main focal point up front Del Bosque has a big decision to make this Sunday in regards to if Torres should start or if he sticks with the 6 midfielders. The match will have its nervy spells but with both teams encouraging attractive football it should surely deliver in being a great ending to this year’s European Championships and don't be surprised if the Italians reign supreme in Kiev.

Skye's prediction: Italy to win, in a game of this magnitude it could easily come down to extra time or penalties but I fancy the Azzurri to triumph.

Can Super Mario flex his muscles again when it matters most

Same old England, what does the future hold...

After the nation's hopes went sky high once again England failed. For the 5th time in 8 of their last tournaments they fell on penalties. At one point it looked like the quarter-final hoodoo was over as England's luck got them to the shootout and they lead 2-1 until misses from Ashley Young and Ashley Cole following Pirlo's cheeky chip sealed England's exit.

But where did it go wrong? Changing managers so close to a tournament is an easy excuse, it's not helpful but England's problems lay deeper. For once these players did show passion for their country but for most their time has gone, it's time for an influx of young, fresh players who are hungry and who have lots to prove. The same can be said for the manager, Hodgson is not responsible for all of the blame but a young fresh face would help with a young team therefore Roy or Harry Redknapp would not be the right choice for the job if the decision was right now. The majority of English managers seem to be living in the past as formations such as 4-4-2 are now becoming almost ineffective and outdated with the likes of the 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1 dominating.

Tactics, manager and formation aside could this Euro campaign ended differently for England if the squad itself was changed. Hindsight is a beautiful thing and easy to dwell on but looking at the team a few changes would certainty have helped and with the changes the tactics themselves would have had to be different as well for it to work.

The squad was as follows:

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart, Jack Butland, Robert Green.

Defenders: Glenn Johnson, Ashley Cole, John Terry, Joleon Lescott, Leigton Baines, Phil Jones, Martin Kelly, Phil Jagielka

Midfielders: Steven Gerrard, Scott Parker, Jordan Henderson, Theo Walcott, Ashley Young, James Milner, Stewart Downing, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain,

Forwards: Wayne Rooney, Andy Carroll, Danny Welbeck, Jermain Defoe

The squad had depth and it is undoubted that it has quality but it still lacked some of the star studded, stand out players that could turn a game on its head. With some fresh players and new ideas the World Cup in Brazil could be a success, England almost certainly won't win it as all 6 of the World Cups held in South America have been won by a team from the continent. If this European Championships had been used to help bring some younger faces in who knows what could of been but it's over with now so the qualifiers for the next World Cup should be used as the starting point for a new England, the next generation then in 2014 the tournament can be used as a stepping stone for Euro 2016 in France which in 4 years England could definitely be a contender for to come out as winners.

With all of that being said if I was to pick a starting 11 for England right now with everything that has been mentioned it would be as follows.

Formation: 4-3-3.

Goalkeeper: Joe Hart

He is an excellent goalkeeper, one of the best in the world and Hart is only 25. If it wasn't for the Manchester City shot stopper England would have been out earlier in the Euros or been humiliated by Italy. Having a great goalkeeper is the perfect backbone for a winning team.

Right Back: Kyle Walker

Unfortunately the Tottenham man was injured and missed out, he is England's best young right back and should be backed up by Micah Richards. Walker will start throughout the qualifiers for Brazil 2014 and be in the tournament whereas Richards' exclusion from the Euro's was mind blowing with him not even being chosen over Martin Kelly which was surely the biggest mistake by Hodgson.

Centre Backs: Phil Jones and Gary Cahill.

Both are great young players, Cahill played brilliantly in Chelsea's Champions League triumph and will only get better learning from John Terry. Phil Jones is a future England captain and has many years in his career to improve with him being only 20, for the Manchester United youngster the future is bright and like Cahill he will be able to learn from an experienced club team mate; Rio Ferdinand.

Left Back: Ryan Bertrand/Keiran Gibbs

Whoever plays the most out of these two young players in the next couple of years should start at left back in Brazil. Bertrand is learning from Ashley Cole at Chelsea whilst Gibbs has always had talent, expect the Arsenal man to have a breakout season this year.

Midfielders: Jack Rodwell, Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

These three in the middle could easily light up a tournament. They all have bags of energy and even better bags of talent. Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Scott Parker are all in their 30s. Don’t rule either 3 out of being in the squad but with Rodwell holding, Wilshire's passing ability and Chamberlain's bulldog like approach if they were given the chance who knows what they could achieve.

Wingers: Aaron Lennon (right) Ashley Young (left)

It would be easy for anyone to not include Young in the squad after the tournament he had but it was his first tournament and his first season at Manchester United. He will improve in the next two years and continue to be an asset for England. Speaking of easy anyone would have thought that Aaron Lennon would be in the squad after his performances for Tottenham, how he wasn't in over James Milner or just generally is baffling as Lennon's game has come on leaps in bounds season by season.

Striker: Wayne Rooney

Despite his critics on his day Wayne Rooney is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world. He has brilliant control, a fantastic shot and a great footballing brain which means he can read the game so well and unlike many strikers he can drop back in to midfield to pick out 30 yard passes with his great range. He just needs a manager to bring the best out of him as England's tactics don't seem to suit his game. In 2004 England played attacking football and that is what Rooney loves, it is why he is so good at for Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. Maybe making Rooney England captain would motivate him and show him that they want to build the team around him, in 2 years he will be 28 and at the peak of his career so despite whatever will be said come the World Cup if England are doing well come the tournament he could set it alight.

After reading the choices a 4-2-3-1 would also be suited, Wilshere and Rodwell holding with Chamberlain playing off of Rooney meaning Young and Lennon would attack the wings and defend when England didn't have the ball.

Overall the 23 man squad would also include the likes of Danny Welbeck and Daniel Sturridge up front. Theo Walcott in midfield. Chris Smalling in defence and players such as Nick Powell and Henri Lansbury have the skills to become England internationals. Sometimes experience is overrated but admittedly it does help so some seniors should be in the squad but with some fresh blood in side and an overhaul of the England team which is definitely needed the future could be oh so bright for English football.

46 years and counting...

Nadal Vs Djokovic: The King of Clay vs The King of Tennis

Whoever wins tomorrow at Roland Garros one thing is for sure... History will be made!
                                                                      

                                                                  VS

            
           

Rafael Nadal who is currently tied with Bjorn Borg on 6 French Open titles is looking to claim his 7th Championship, Nadal is the undisputed king of clay and any arguments over that will go away if he wins tomorrow. The Spaniard's overall clay record in his career is an unbelievable 253 wins to only 19 defeats meaning his win ratio on the surface is 93%. A victory for Nadal tomorrow would also mean that he is only 6 grand slam titles behind another great rival of his, Roger Federer. Rafa has come under some criticism following 3 straight slam defeats to Novak Djokovic but on clay the man is practically unbeatable, in this tournament he hasn't dropped a set and in only 2 sets of 18 has an opponent won more then 3 games against him.

While many favour the warrior that is Nadal there is some pressure on the man, after all if he was to lose to the world number 1 tomorrow how would that leave him mentally? Losing 4 consecutive finals in all of the majors to your new greatest rival. A great Champion will never go away but tomorrow is crucial for both of these men's careers.

Well Novak Djokovic has certainly thrown his name in to the hat with the likes of Federer and Nadal as one of tennis' all-time greats with his performances over the past 2-3 years. In 2011 the Serbian finished the season with a record of 70-6. This included the three wins over Nadal in the three finals, the Australian open, Wimbledon and the US Open. 2012 was always going to be an interesting year in this upcoming rival and in January 2012 the two men had the longest ever men's singles finals match which lasted for a staggering 5 hours and 53 mintues.With a win tomorrow Djokovic would complete a career grand slam and become the first man to hold all 4 grand slams at the same time in the open era.

This final is going to be a big moment in tennis, Novak may feel if he loses tomorrow that he might not get another chance to win on the red clay of France as he has stuttered to get to this stage. Rafa is cruising but as I mentioned before if he loses tomorrow how will he get over this mentally? The French Open's clay is the Spaniard's home, as the Djoker steps in to the king's court only one man can come out on top but who will it be?

Personally if I had to make a choice I'd go for Nadal, as I've said he is practically unbeatable on clay and for him to drop 3 sets in one match when he hasn't dropped one in the whole tournament is unthinkable. Novak will win 1 set at best and with his ability I'll give him that so for a prediction I'll say 7-5 4-6 6-4 6-3 to Nadal.

If that's the case then you can add a new picture to the collection shown below, Vamos Rafa!

Nadal's first title at just 19 years old back in 2005

The Spaniard confirms it wasn't just a once off winning on the red clay again in 2006

Judging by this picture Nadal was getting tired of lifting trophies, this being his 3rd Roland Garros in a row (2007)

History was achieved in 2008 as Rafa won 4 French Open's in a row matching Bjorn Borg's consecutive record.

After some unfortunate injury problems Nadal fought back and when he crossed paths with the only man to beat him at the French in the final there was only going to be one winner as Rafa clinched his 5th French in 6 years.

Another piece of history was made in Paris by Nadal last spring as he became the first man to win the trophy 6 times in 7 years and also tied Bjorn Borg all-time for French Open victories (6) can he become the official King of Clay tomorrow and make it 7 out of 8?

Thanks for reading and to end on a nice note I would like to congratulate my wife Maria Sharapova on her victory today at Rolland Garros as she completed a career grand-slam. Fully deserved after battling back from a shoulder injury that would have ended so many players careers.

Euro 2012 Preview

As I sit here writing this with just over 12 hours until Euro 2012 kick offs I have written my preview about the teams group by group and so forth. I hope you enjoy.

Group A

Poland:

The co-hosts were given a good draw in a group that will prove to be tightly contested and very competitive. Poland's success will be down to the likes of Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, influencial midfielder Ludovic Obraniak along with Borussia Dortmund team mates Jakub Błaszczykowski (Captain) and Robert Lewandowski as they look to do their country proud in front of thousands of home supporters

Star Player: Robert Lewandowski

He has become one of Europe's top strikers as he lead his club's scoring charts, 30 goals in 67 games (two seasons), and was named Bundesliga player of the season following Dortmund's double success. Lewandowski's ability to score goals will be key if Poland are to do well in the Euro's as he looks to add to his current tally of 14 international goals on Europe's biggest stage.

Tournament Prediction: Quarter Finals, in a group as close as this home advantage could be key and I fancy Poland to make it to the knockout stages.

Greece

Back in 2004 Greece shocked everyone by doing the unthinkable and lifting the Henri Delaunay against overwhelming favourites Portugal. On the back of a good qualifying campaign which saw them go unbeaten and finish above Croatia it will be down to the likes of captain Giorgos Karagounis who scored in that final 8 years ago to try and pull off another shock at these European Championships.

Star Player: Giorgos Samaras

One of the most well known players in the Greek national side, the Celtic striker will be looking to bring out his best at these finals and spur on his team mates. He is an accomplished striker and despite only scoring 6 goals in 37 games for his club this season his contribution helped them lift the league, with his height and ability on his day Samaras could be a handful for many oppositions.

Tournament Prediction: Although a close group I don't fancy Greece to progress, they are one of those sides who usually try harder against better opposition but with teams similar to them in the group it's unlikely that they will make the knock-outs.

Russia
Russia are a footballing nation on the rise, with the World Cup coming to the country in 2018 despite the controversial circumstances that is not all they have to be proud about. The team enjoyed a good qualifying campaign which saw them finish top narrowly above the Republic of Ireland. They looked impressive in a 3-0 win of Italy last week and with the likes of Igor Akinfeev between the sticks. outfield stars such as Igor Denisov and a host of very able strikers that include Arshavin, Kerzhakov, Pavlyuchenko and Pogrebnyak the Russians could have a successful tournament.

Star Player: Andrei Arshavin

Arshavin had a bad season at Arsenal but it was at the European Championships back in Euro 2008 where he shone and he will be a key player for Russia as he leads his team this time out. With 3 goals in 10 games since returning to Zenit on loan Arshavin seems in a better place mentally then he did at Arsenal so with a bit of form and confidence to his name Arshavin could well set Group A alight.

Tournament Prediction: With a well equipped squad and the team being the favourites in this group I fancy Russia to progress to the quarter-finals.


Czech Republic

An era of Czech Republic football ended when the likes of Pavel Nedved and Jan Koller retired, now is a chance for a new era of players to try and make their country proud. The team qualified through the playoffs where they beat Montenegro 2-1 after finishing 2nd in their group behind World Cup winners Spain. The likes of Thomas Rosicky, Jaroslav Plasil, Tomas Hubschman and striker Milan Baros will be key to any success the team has.

Star Player: Petr Cech

The Chelsea goalkeeper has had a fine season between the sticks, probably one of the best in his career. He goes in to the tournament on a massive high following Chelsea's Champions League victory which saw the keeper play an influential role throughout the tournament. At 30 years old he has many years left in him and will prove a very difficult to any opposing strikers at the Euro's.

Tournament Prediction: Despite some established players the Czech team isn't strong enough to cause an upset in this tournament so it is doubtful that they will progress past the group stage.

Group B

Holland


Holland won 9 out of 10 qualifying games during the campaign, they have a strong squad and everyone knows what they can do after making the 2010 World Cup Final before falling just short to Spain. Their defence isn't the strongest but with Stekelenburg in goal along with outfield stars such as Wesley Sneijder, Arjen Robben, Van Der Vaart, Kevin Strootman, Robin Van Persie and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar the team could have a very successful tournament but will a country with such great footballers and history be able to live up to such high expectations.

Star Player: Robin Van Persie

Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben are world class but Robin Van Persie is coming off the best season in his career. The Arsenal striker scored 37 goals in 48 games with 30 coming in the Premier League making him the league's top goalscorer. Van Persie practically took Arsenal on his shoulder's and carried them to 3rd place but in a Dutch team with high quality players he'll have plenty of help as the Oranje look to make their mark on Euro 2012.

Tournament Prediction: Personally despite such high expectations for this Dutch side I feel they will be the surprise flops of the tournament, it's hard for teams to do well back to back in tournament's so I feel they will fall at the group stage especially with such a difficult group.

Denmark

Denmark impressed in qualifying finishing above group counterparts Portugal, the two meet again with Germany and Holland making up the rest of the group meaning that many don't give Denmark any hope at all. Denmark shocked Europe when they won Euro 92 and with a team that has the likes of Daniel Agger, Christian Eriksen and Nicklas Bendtner could the Scandinavians shock in a group full of favourites.

Star Player: Christian Eriksen

The 20 year old Ajax midfielder is one of Europe's hottest prospects, the current Danish football player of the year will be key to any success that Denmark have as the youngster looks to test his skills against some of the best midfielders on the planet. With 21 assists in 44 games for Ajax this season as well as 8 goals it is clear to see that Eriksen can pull the strings in the middle of the park and chip in when it matters.

Tournament Prediction: Sadly for Denmark the draw for Euro 2012 was unkind to them and it is very unlikely that they will be able to muster up 3 fantastic performances against 3 of the tournament's favourites meaning they won't make it through group B.

Germany

A team with so much talent and so much potential, a nation that always delivers on the big stage. Germany are one of the frontrunners to win Euro 2012. Their squad oozes quality throughout all positions with Manuel Neur in goal, Captain Phillip Lahm in defence, a midfield with the likes of Bayern Munich's Bastian Schweinsteiger and Real Madrid's Mesut Ozil as well as hitmen Miroslav Klose and. Mario Gomez. With the likes of rising stars Thomas Muller and Mario Gotze also in the squad this German side will cause trouble for anyone on their day and could easily end up winners.

Star Player: Lukas Podolski

Podolski has a great left foot, at only 27 years old he has been capped a phenomenal 97 times in which he has scored 43 goals. With the ability to play in midfield, on the wing or upfront the Arsenal bound man will pull the strings in this German side and will be a threat against any opposition. The Polish born starlet will look to set the tournament alight in the country he was born as he and the Germans bid for Euro 2012 glory.

Tournament Prediction: As much as it pains me to say this, with my footballing cap on I fancy the Germans to win the tournament. They want to put the record straight against the likes of Spain after just missing out on the World Cup in 2010 and as they'll be playing in familiar territory the Germans could well up up winners come July 1st.

Portugal

Portugal have never won a major tournament, in 2004 they looked certain to end the wait but lost to underdogs Greece. In 2008 they lost 3-2 to Germany and in 2010 at the World Cup they lost 1-0 to Champions Spain. They finished second in qualification behind Denmark and with a tough group including the Danes themselves it will be tough for the Portuguese but luckily they have arguably the best player in the world, Cristiano Ronaldo who has the ability to "single handedly" lead Portugal to glory.

Star Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

The 27 year old is on a high after being an key figure in Real Madrid's La Liga winning side. If he manages to take his country to Euro 2012 glory he will surely be the best footballer in the world and win the Ballon d'or award come the end of the year. He scored 60 goals in 55 games for Real Madrid this season, has 146 goals in 144 games for the club and for Portugal is just as impressive with 32 in 90 games. Ronaldo has been capped a remarkable 90 times at such a young age, with him being so class and having a cast around him including the likes of Pepe, Nani, Moutinho and others who's to say Ronaldo and co won't be the ones springing a surprise this time round.

Tournament Prediction: Many would go with Holland and Germany progressing from this group but I think Portugal will reach the knock-outs with Germany and with Group A, no disrespect, being the easiest group to land in terms of quarter final opponents, on paper, I think the Portuguese will be making at least the semi-finals of the tournament.

Group C

Spain 

Spain have a goldern generation of players, the team currently are holders of the European Championships and the World Cup. They are many people's outright favourites to win the competition but nobody has ever managed to win the Euro's back to back but with a team full of depth and a host of superstars including the likes of Iker Casillas (captain) Gerard Pique, Sergio Ramos, a midfield of which any country would be happy to have any of it's players with the list being Javi Martinez, Iniesta, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas, Juan Mata, Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets, Santi Cazorla, David Silva and Jesus Navas this team is full of class. The strikers include Pedro and the two Fernando's, Llorente and Torres. With a squad full of Barcelona and Real Madrid's finest as well as key players from many other of Europe's top clubs Spain could easily be lifting the Henri Delaunay trophy in a few weeks time.

Star Player: Iker Casillas

A surprise choice maybe but with so many fantastic outfield players and manager Vicente Del Bosque able to call upon magic whenever he chooses the key player has to be the one guaranteed player in the team who is Casillas. He made his debut for Spain back on June 3rd 2000 and since then has go on to become Spain's most capped player with 131 caps, the captain was crucial in his countries two previous tournament success' and at only 31 years old will continue to be a superstar.

Tournament Prediction: Despite many people's favourites I plumped for Germany as just like Barcelona I don't see anyone winning a highly competitive tournament back to back but with Spain being Spain don't think I'm ruling them out from winning Euro 2012 as if it is them lifting the trophy on July 1st nobody will be surprised. Expect them to reach at least the semi finals although that depends on when they meet England ;)

Italy

Although winners of the World Cup 4 times the Azzurri have only won the European Championships once which was when the team first appeared in the tournament back in 1968. A new guard of players is in this Italian squad with only 7 players aged 30 or over so a blend of youth and experience has been implemented in to the team. Juventus pair Gianluigi Buffon (captain) and Giorgio Chiellini will be key for the Italians at the back and other key players such as Maggio, De Rossi, Pirlo, Giovinco, Di Natale, Cassano and the controversial Mario Balotelli in the team if they all perform Italy should do very well.

Star Player: Mario Balotelli

The king of controversy is the key figure in this Italy squad, sadly for them I feel sorry that their hopes rely on a player who at any moment could cost the squad in a moment of madness. His footballing ability in unquestionable and if his mentality improves he could become a world beater, hopefully with the faith manager Cesare Prandelli has placed in him he will take his opportunity and produce the fire-power Italy lack at the moment and need if they are to do well in these European Championships.

Tournament Prediction: In a group where Spain are the favourites despite a high self-esteem and belief the Italians would settle for just progressing through the group as injuries to the likes of Giuseppe Rossi has dampened the teams hopes. Croatia and Italy will prove stern tests for them but with the quality in the side I feel they will make it to at least the quarter finals and if they play well are my outside bet to win the tournament.

Republic of Ireland

Ireland fought hard in their qualification campaign and finished just two points behind Russia with only one defeat, in the playoffs they got a convincing win over Estonia which ended with the Irish winning 5-1 on aggregate. Giovanni Trapattoni has made his team hard to beat as they go in to their first game against Croatia having avoided defeat in their last 14 games. With the likes of Given, Dunne, Duff, McGeady, Keane, Doyle and Long could Ireland spring a surprise or two in these championships...

Star Player: Robbie Keane

Captain Robbie Keane is his countries all-time leading goalscorer with 53 goals for Ireland. Only aged 31 and with 117 caps it seems like the striker has been around forever, he now plays his trade in the United States along with David Beckham and LA Galaxy and will be crucial in any success Ireland hope to achieve at Euro 2012.

Tournament prediction: Ireland are the outsiders of the group but like Croatia are well equipped and will give it their all against the bigger nations in the group, Spain and Italy. At this moment in time I'd say they won't make it past the group stages but with a good result in their first game who knows.

Croatia

Although well equipped with players such as Pletikosa in goal, Corluka, Rakitic, captain Darijo Srna, Luka Modric and front men Jelavic and Eduardo the Croatians finished below Greece in qualifying. They got through the playoffs and reached Poland/Ukraine for Euro 2012. Slaven Bilic has been at the helm of the national side for a long time now and Croatia causing a stir in a competitive group could be on the cards.

Star Player: Luka Modric

Tottenham starlet Luka Modric is a fantastic playmaker and has attracted the attention of many clubs around the world. He'll have a chance to show his skills to the whole of Europe at Euro 2012 and will want to produce on the big stage to make his country proud whilst proving his skills to everyone.

Tournament prediction: Like Ireland, Croatia could cause a surprise in this group but I still think that at this moment in time they won't progress pass the group stage. Both sides will know how crucial a win is when the two meet in their opening game and if either win they stand a chance of progressing.

Group D

Ukraine

The co-hosts got a tougher group then Poland and will have to play against Sweden, England and France. Despite the odds being stacked against them on home soil in a hostile environment for visiting teams who's to say that Ukraine can't spring a surprise at the Euros. Players like Yarmolenko, Tymoshchuk and the legendary Andriy Shevchenko will be crucial if Ukraine are to do well in this years tournament.

Star Player: Andriy Shevchenko

Probably Ukraine's greatest ever footballer and the countries captain, Andriy Shevchenko will look to take Euro 2012 in front of the home crowd. The soon to be 36 year old is still a great player with valuable experience and with 46 goals in 107 games as well as many other goals for the likes of Milan in his career on his day Shevchenko can still carve a hole in opposing defences.

Tournament prediction: Despite being the home nation with the group they are in the knock-outs are surely a step to far for Ukraine.

Sweden

The Swedes finished with a very impressive 24 points out of 30 in the qualifiers meaning they were the top placed team out of the sides who finished second meaning they automatically gained qualification to Euro 2012. It was Holland who topped that group but with 8 wins and just 2 defeats Sweden proved they are a good side who on their day are hard to beat, they have one of the best strikers in the world in Zlatan Ibrahimovic and other good players such as Sebastian Larsson, Rasmus Elm, Oloff Mellberg and Martin Olsson.

Star player: Zlatan Ibrahimovic

With 35 goals in 44 games for AC Milan this season as well as 14 assists to his name Zlatan Ibrahimovic is in fine form. Although sometimes criticised for his performances against the bigger sides the 30 year old is one of the most feared strikers in the world with a great presence thanks to an international goal-scoring record which has seen him score 31 goals in 77 games for his country and you can bank on his adding to his tally as these European Championships

Tournament prediction: Sweden as I mentioned before are a good side and this tough unit will prove tough for the likes of France and England. Funnily enough I can't see the French and England both progressing so I think Sweden will hit the ground running with a win over Ukraine and end up going through to the knock-outs in either first or second as this group is sure to be tightly contested.

France

France had a bit of a tough time in their qualifying group which on paper looked easy, they finished above Bosnia and Herzegovina by just a point but of late they have been in fine form as Laurent Blanc's men go in to the tournament with an unbeaten record of 21 games. The French like the English are looking to bounce back in this competition following a disappointing World Cup 2 years ago, with the likes of Franck Ribery, Samir Nasri, Hatem Ben Arfa, and Karim Benzema to name a few maybe the French can put a few recent ghosts to rest.

Star Player: Franck Ribery

The Bayern Munich star missed out on Champions League Glory again and will have a point to prove, at 29 he is at the peak of his career and would love to do his country proud. Ribery has 10 goals and 12 assists in 60 games for France and has been in fine form for Bayern this season with 16 goals and 26 assists in 46 games so it is clear to see that if Ribery plays well then France will almost certainly play well.

Tournament prediction: Despite their current unbeaten run and even with quality players in the side I think their are still cracks in this French side which will be uncovered in this tournament and I can see them bowing out in the groups

England 

A lot of people believe that now everyone in England has low expectations for the side they could be successful at Euro 2012 but this just proves that expectation is still high. The country is where football was born and every time a major tournament comes around the fans get pumped up meaning they dream of what may be. Roy Hodgson is the man who faces the task of trying to deliver Euro 2012 glory but has had injury problems with the likes of Gary Cahill, Gareth Barry and Frank Lampard being ruled out of the side. Martin Kelly has been included over many high profile players and even worse it has confirmed the fears that Rio Ferdinand was left out of the England squad due to the racism row with John Terry and not for footballing reasons. With England's best player Wayne Rooney ruled of for the first 2 group games against France and Sweden with suspension the team's chances have suffered major blows but with the right tactics and a bit of belief installed in to the side Roy's new-look hard to beat England team with performances from the likes of the experienced Steven Gerrard, Scott Parker and Ashley Cole as well as youngsters Ashley Young, Theo Walcott, Phil Jones, Andy Carroll and Danny Welbeck England could very well surprise everyone at these Championships.


Star player: Joe Hart


For a team that has suffered many injury problems to have a world class goalkeeper between the sticks is fantastic news for England. Hart is coming off an amazing season in goal for Manchester City as he was crucial in the team's league winning season. With Rooney out for 2 games stability at the back is what England need to succeed and with one of the best goalkeepers in the world between the sticks England could get the results they need to progress to the quarter finals and then push on once their star striker returns.


Tournament prediction: I think that as always England will make it difficult for themselves but will make it past the group stages, if they can avoid Spain in the quarter finals and build a bit of confidence against Ukraine and in the quarter finals with Wayne Rooney back they could well push on a surprise all around Europe and the rest of the world.










Overall:


Winners: Germany or Spain


Outside bets: England, Italy or Portugal


Flops: Holland and France


Dark Horses: Poland, Republic of Ireland and Sweden.


Top Scorer: Ronaldo or Muller