Sunday Says...

     'Sunday Says...' is a new feature coming to you every Sunday (obviously), were we take a look at the weekend papers and social networks! Who's going where? Will your manager get sacked? What's going down on social media? Total Football has it all in one place!

Transfer Rumours

Manchester United are looking to bring in £60 million rated Dutch midfielder Kevin Strootman in January. (Sunday Mirror).

Red Devils midfield starlet Adnan Januzaj could be heading to Serie A on loan in January, with Fiorentina and Juventus hunting for his signiture. (Metro).

And United full-back Rafael has stated his intent to stay at the club for the remainder of his career. (Sunday Express).

Brendan Rodgers still has his eye on free agent Victor Valdes to add more competition for Simon Mignolet. (Daily Star).

Greek midfielder Giorgos Karagounis could be on his way back to Fulham after manager Felix Magath's departure. (Independent).

Both North London clubs, Arsenal and Spurs, are in the running for Basel defender Fabian Schar in January. (Daily Star).

Under-fire Newcastle manager is looking to bring back West Ham's Any Carroll in January. (Sunday People).


Social Media Buzz

John Terry posted a video of his table tennis straight sets victory against former Liverpool man Jamie Redknapp on Instagram. The Chelsea defender won 21-16, 21-17.

Premier League Round-Up

     The Premier League returned with a bang off the back of the first international break of the season and what a weekend it was. Rio returned to Old Trafford, there was a battle of the 100% records at Stamford Bridge and a early season grudge match at the Emirates. But how did your team fare - it's the Total Football Premier League Round-Up!

Saturday

Arsenal 2-2 Manchester City

It was a share of the points in North London, in another early season grudge match, which was pulsating to say the least. Arsenal dominated the early stages of the game, debutante Danny Welbeck clipped the post. But a quick City counter ended with Sergio Aguero strike to ensure the champions led at the break. Jack Wilshere, who received heaps of criticism throughout the week, managed to claw the Gunners level after the hour before Alexis Sanchez looked to have buried the winner with an exquisite volley. But it wasn't to be, Martin Demichelis found the target with a free header to ensure all was even.

Chelsea 4-2 Swansea City
Chelsea maintained their 100% record against previously unbeaten side Swansea, with Diego Costa once again the centre of attention. The Blues went behind early however, skipper John Terry bundling Neil Taylor's cross into his own net. But it was Costa with the 'Get out of Jail' card as he scored the equalizer on the stroke of half time. And it was the Spaniard, an injury doubt before the game, who delivered the goods a further two times after the break to complete the first Premier League hat-trick of the season. Debutante Loic Remy bagged himself a goal off the bench, before Jonjo Shelvey scored a mere consolation for the visitors.

Crystal Palace 0-0 Burnley
Burnley moved off the foot of the table with a hard earned point away to Crystal Palace. Neil Warnock saw his side get off to a good start, Scott Dann headed against the bar early on. But it wasn't until the dying embers that the match came alive. With just five minutes left on the clock, Burnley striker Lukas Jutkiewicz went down in the area, penalty the obvious decision. But Julian Speroni was the hero for Palace as he parried away Scott Arfield's effort.

Southampton 4-0 Newcastle United
More pressure was heaped on Magpies manager Alan Pardew as he witnessed his side slump to defeat at Southampton. The Saints blitzed Newcastle early on, with Graziano Pelle twice converting from close range following some shocking defending. More suicidal play gifted another goal to Southampton when Jack Cork rounded Krul to roll into the empty net. But the Saints definitely saved the best until last, want away midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin curling in from 18 yards.

Stoke City 0-1 Leicester City
Stoke failed to replicate their win against Manchester City before the international break after falling to defeat against Leicester. Shock Foxes signing Estban Cambiasso entered the fray at half time, but it was in form man Leonardo Ulloa that scored his third goal of the season after the hour mark to put the visitors ahead. Ben Hamer made a number of fine stops on his Foxes debut, with regular keeper Kasper Schmeichel out injured. Leicester will be hoping to add to their good start to the season.

Sunderland 2-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs were left frustrated as Sunderland twice came from behind at the Stadium of Light. It looked as though the Londoners would go on for a comfortable victory after Nacer Chadli opened the scoring after just two minutes, only for Adam Johnson to pull one back moments later. Tottenham had their chances and finally took one just minutes after the restart, Christian Eriksen pounced on some poor defending. Spurs continued to dominate in all areas of the field but failed to deliver in the dying moments, Jordi Gomez's cross found itself at the feet of Harry Kane who bundled into his own net.

West Bromwich Albion 0-2 Everton
Everton helped themselves to their first win of the season away at the Hawthorns. The Toffees started well and capitalized on some shaky West Brom defending, with Romelu Lukaku curling home. It was the first time the Belgian had scored in the Premier League for a club that owned him, his previous 32 coming during loan spells. Steven Naismith should have added a second when he blazed over the bar, but replays showed him offside anyway. But it was Lukaku's fellow countryman, Kevin Mirallas, that doubled Everton's advantage, his strike from the edge of the area squirming under Ben Foster. The Toffees held on for their first clean sheet of the season.

Liverpool 0-1 Aston Villa
Liverpool's mixed start to the season continued against bogey team Aston Villa at Anfield. The Red's failed to clear a corner less than ten minutes in and Villa's longest serving player Gabriel Agbonlahor pounced at the back post. Liverpool dominated in possession but failed to convert into goals, possibly missing the creativity of Raheem Sterling, dropped to the bench to prevent burnout. Adam Lallana showed signs of what is to come in his Reds career, but lacked the match sharpness to effect the game and Liverpool failed to win for the fourth time in a row at home against Villa.


Sunday

Manchester United 4-0 Queens Park Rangers
Manchester United picked up their first three points of the season in a convincing home display against QPR. R's defender Rio Ferdinand endured a miserable return to Old Trafford, his side conceding three times in the first half. The first came from United's new midfield maestro, Angel Di Maria, whose curling free kick found its way in. Two more came before half time, a lovely drilled strike from another new man in Ander Herrera and skipper Wayne Rooney earning his 175th Premier League goal. New striker Radamel Falcao came on to replace United's forth goalscorer Juan Mata, but the Colombian failed to score on his debut for the first time in his career.

Monday

Hull City 2-2 West Ham United

West Ham showed great determination after twice coming from behind at the KC Stadium. Hull led at the break through a lovely guided header from record signing Abel Hernandez. But soon after the break the teams were level once more thanks to a thumping effort from Enner Valencia, who showed glimpses of his World Cup form. The Hammers learnt to keep tabs on their exes, after Mohammed Diame's placed finish before his strike was quickly cancelled out by a deflected Diafra Sakho shot. Valencia had a header deflected onto the bar in the dying moments, but it wasn't enough to secure all three points.


This Week's Champion - Enner Valencia
The Ecuador international gave us an early contender for goal of the season, after rifling home from 25 yards against Hull!

This Week's Loser - Alan Pardew
His side slumped to a heavy defeat at the hands of Southampton, the crowd began to get on his back - and not for the first time...


1) Chelsea
2) Aston Villa
3) Swansea City
4) Southampton
5) Manchester City
6) Tottenham Hotspur
7) Arsenal
8) Liverpool
9) Manchester United
10) Hull City
11) Everton
12) Leicester City
13) West Ham United
14) Stoke City
15) Sunderland
16) Queens Park Rangers
17) Crystal Palace
18) Burnley
19) West Bromwich Albion
20) Newcastle United

Non-League Day

     Saturday - the day of the week that people up and down the country associate with the Beautiful Game. There may be no top flight action this weekend, but there is still plenty of football to be seen up and down the country!

Backed by professional clubs, MPs and celebrities, Non-League Day is all about getting behind your local team, whether it be Blyth or Bath the country comes together to celebrate the postmen, the mechanics and the PE teachers who never quite made it to the professional level. Non-League Day was set up in 2010 and has been annual event every year since and always coincides with an international break - so that means that if you're not watching the Toon Army this weekend, why not go down to Gateshead to watch some proper football! The people who attend non-league games are proper fans, die hards and you will meet lots of new friendly people and what's even better is the ticket prices are still affordable.

Better still is that Non-League Day have joined forces with Prostate Cancer UK. This means that if a total of 50,000 people attend a non-league game this weekend, Conference sponsors Vanarama will donate £10,000 to the charity! Just because you attended a non-league game! Imagine how many lives could be changed...

I'm backing Non-League Day - are you...?

Premier League Round-Up

     We've all come back off our holidays now (including myself, so apologies for no recent posts), so that only means one thing. The football's back! New faces including Super Mario and Di Maria were on show at the weekend, but what happened in week two? Total Football will give you all the news!

Saturday

Burnley 0-0 Manchester United
The Red Devils are still undergoing a transitional period under new manager Louis Van Gaal, but there were no excuses as newly promoted Burnley dominated the game in large parts at Turf Moor. Dave Jones' early free kick hit the bar early on for the hosts and the United fans saw signs of promise from £60 million Angel Di Maria. No amount of money, however, will compensate for their midweek loss to MK Dons in the League Cup, 4-0 was the score at stadium:mk.

Manchester City 0-1 Stoke City
It wasn't any better for fans on the blue side of Manchester either as the champions were shocked 1-0 at home to Stoke. City, although dominating the game with 16 shots, failed to convert any of them with only two on target. And on 58 minutes were punished by a fine solo effort from ex-Man United player Mame Biram Diouf, his shot squirming under Joe Hart after an excellent run. Yaya Toure was booked late on for diving, but replays show there was contact.

Newcastle United 3-3 Crystal Palace
The game got off to a flyer with Dwight Gayle on target after 30 seconds for the visitors, but Daryl Janmaat leveled before half-time. Palace were back in front soon after the break, a deflected Puncheon volley found it's way in before Rolando Aarons put the hosts back on terms again. With just two minutes of regular time remaining Mike Williamson bundled home for his first Newcastle goal after the ball came back off the bar. But it wasn't to be for the Toon, Wilfried Zaha on loan from Manchester United and making his second debut for Palace, rifled home from 12 yards in the sixth minute of stoppage time.

Swansea City 3-0 West Bromwich Albion
Swansea maintained their 100% start to 2014-15 with a comfortable victory over West Brom. Nathan Dyer got on the scoresheet after two minutes, round Ben Foster before slotting into the empty net. The Swans pressed hard throughout and reaped the rewards when they doubled there advantage after 25 minutes, Wayne Routledge volleying home from 18 yards. The scoring was complete midway through the second period, Nathan Dyer punishing some weak Baggies defending.

West Ham United 1-3 Southampton
Morgan Schneiderlin put questions about his loyalty to bed, scoring twice against West Ham. The Hammers looked to have taken control of the game, Mark Noble's deflected strike midway through the first half finding its way in. But on the stroke of half-time, Schneiderlin collected the ball in the box and curled into the corner at the second attempt. The Saints created throughout the second half and had a goal disallowed, until their persistence finally paid off from a sloppily defended short corner, Schneiderlin with his second. And with time running out, Graziano Pelle blasted home from close range with his first Southampton goal.

Queens Park Rangers 1-0 Sunderland
Pre-match happenings didn't stop QPR as they beat Sunderland at home. The hosts accepted a bid from Chelsea for striker Loic Remy, who was subsequently removed from the match day squad. Charlie Austin came in for the Frenchman and nearly scored only for Vito Mannone to be quick off his line. But the Rs' kept pushing and in first half stoppage time, Joey Barton's corner was knocked by new signing Leroy Fer before being smacked in by Austin. The Londoners didn't have to wait long for their first Premier League victory, the last time they were in the top flight they had to wait until December.

Everton 3-6 Chelsea
The most pulsating game so far this season took place at Goodison Park on Saturday. Diego Costa put Chelsea ahead after less than a minute putting through the legs of Tim Howard before Branislav Ivanovic spun and shot moments later to extend their lead. However, Ivanovic's trailing leg appeared offside. Everton's American goalkeeper should have been sent off after less than ten minutes, catching the ball clearly outside of his area. Lukaku rattled against the bar against his former team before Sylvain Distin turned home - the flag was raised. Costa was caught offside himself before the hosts leveled through a beautiful Kevin Mirallas header, just the boost Everton needed before half-time. But Eden Hazard went on exquisite run before his cross was deflected in by Seamus Coleman. But the Toffees didn't lie down and found themselves in contention again, a McGeady pass converted well by Naismith. But just as hope was restored a brilliant passing move was finished off Nemanja Matic with a slight deflection, 4-2 the score. But the Everton determination was still their and the ex-Chelsea man score with his first touch for his new club with a well guided header and suddenly Everton were right back in it, it isn't over until the fat lady sings! The Everton defence was unlocked once more though, another good passing move found Ramires who finished with ease. And with time running out, Kevin Mirallas thought he'd scored, only to be denied by the post. However, Chelsea proved to have the last laugh in this game, a woeful touch from Muhamed Besic was latched onto by Didier Drogba and Diego Costa finished how he started. This is going to be some season...


Sunday

Aston Villa 2-1 Hull City
Steve Bruce labelled Hull's first half as pathetic as they were defeated at Villa Park. The home side opened the scoring after a quarter of an hour, Gabriel Agbonlahor swiveling and neatly finishing. And ten minutes before the break, Michael Dawson gave away possession cheaply before Kieran Richardson put it on a plate for Andreas Weimann. Nikica Jelavic headed home midway through the first half, but it wasn't enough to stop Villa's unbeaten record this season.

Tottenham Hotspur 0-3 Liverpool
Tottenham failed to continue their impressive start as Liverpool showed the form that made them title contenders last season. The Reds took the lead early on, Jordan Henderson squaring the ball to Raheem Sterling who easily finished. Spurs could have equalized almost immediately, but Adebayor couldn't get the ball down past Mignolet quick enough. Mario Balotelli should have opened his Liverpool account, but his shot from distance went woefully wide. But the Reds doubled their advantage soon after the break, Joe Allen softly brought down, Steven Gerrard converted from the spot. Tottenham had chances to get back into the game but Liverpool pulled further away, Alberto Moreno robbed Andros Towsend before running around 70 yards before putting the ball into the corner. Liverpool now have 15 goals in their last 4 four games against Spurs.

Leicester City 1-1 Arsenal
Leicester's tricky start continued as they faced Arsenal, who moved into the Champions League group stages in the week. The visitors were dealt a blow early on, Laurent Koscielny colliding with Schlupp, but the Frenchman was deemed fit to continue. The Gunners continued to push and got there rewards after twenty minutes, an indecision saw Yaya Sanogo put the ball past Kasper Schmeichel for Alexis Sanchez to roll the ball into the empty net. The Chilean's second goal in as many games. But Leicester didn't lie down and equalized soon afterwards, Laurent Koscielny didn't spot Ulloa behind him and the Argentinian scored with a well guided header. Leicester pushed for a winner in the second half but weren't clinical enough. Arsenal on the other hand are still waiting for their first away win this season.

This Week's Champion - Burnley 
The Clarets did well to keep £60 million Angel Di Maria at bay - the Lancashire side have only ever spent £45 million in their history!

This Week's Loser - Raheem Sterling
Although Raheem scored a goal early on against Spurs, he should have scored later on, dancing past four Tottenham defenders, before passing the ball to Hugo Lloris!

1)   Chelsea

2)   Swansea City

3)   Aston Villa

4)   Manchester City

5)   Liverpool

6)   Tottenham Hotspur

7)   Arsenal

8)   Southampton

9)   Hull City

10) Stoke City

11)

West Ham United

12) Queens Park Rangers

13) Sunderland

14) Manchester United

15) Leicester City

16) Newcastle United

17) Everton

18) West Bromwich Albion

19) Crystal Palace

20) Burnley

Lahm: Out on a High

     10 glistening years. 10 glistening years of work, work, work. Defence or midfield, club or country, Philipp Lahm has always performed on the big stage. Last Sunday, he performed on the biggest stage for the last time, captaining his country to World Cup glory. This would prove to be the last time he pulled on a Germany shirt - a week later, he announced his retirement from the international game. At least, Lahm can reflect on his outstanding career and say "I've won the World Cup". Total Football is here to analyse an illustrious Germany career.

Fact File
Full name: Philipp Lahm
Date of Birth: 11th November 1983
Position: Full back/Defensive midfielder
Clubs: Bayern Munich II (2001-2003), VfB Stuttgart (loan, 2003-2005), Bayern Munich (2002-present)
International debut: 18th February 2004
International record: 113 game/5 goals

2004

• International debut: Germany 2-1 Croatia - Lahm plays the full ninety minutes in Split and was chosen as Man of the Match in German sports magazine Kicker.
• Was an ever-present as Germany are knocked out of the European Championships in the group stage.

2005

• Lahm tears his cruciate ligament and receives a stress fracture in his foot. He misses the Confederations Cup, held in Germany, and does not return to action until March the next year.

2006

• FIFA World Cup, Germany: Lahm returns to action in sublime fashion scoring the first goal of the World Cup in his home country.
• Man of the Match in second game against Poland.
• Is present in the FIFA All-Star team for the tournament.

2007

• Plays the full ninety minutes as Germany defeat their fierce rivals England 2-1, the Three Lions' first defeat at the New Wembley.

2008

• Plays in every game as Germany reach the final of the European Championships.
• Scores the semi-final winner against Turkey.
• Fernando Torres beats Lahm to the ball to score the only goal in the final: Spain 2-1 Germany

2010

• Captains Germany at the World Cup after regular captain, Michael Ballack withdraws through injury. In doing so, Lahm became the country's youngest captain, aged 26.
• Helps the team to third place in the tournament, losing to Spain in the semi-finals.
• Captaincy turns permanent after it is announced that Ballack will play no further part in Joachim Low's plans.

2011

• The Subtle Difference: How to Become a Top Footballer, Lahm's autobiography, is released in August.

2012

• Lahm is ever-present once more when helping his country to the semi-finals of the European Championships.
• Scores in Germany's 4-2 victory over Greece.
• Named in the Team of the Tournament for the second Euros in a row.

2013

• Starts to adapt to a new role as a defensive midfielder.
• Receives his 100th Germany cap in a 3-0 win over Austria. 

2014

• Wins the World Cup as captain after playing in every game.
• Is part of the side that demolishes the hosts, Brazil, 7-1 in the semi-finals.
• Named on the shortlist for the Golden Ball.
• Announces retirement from international football after 113 games for Die Mannschaft.

A phenomenal talent wherever he is asked to play, we must not forget this is not the end of the road for Philipp Lahm, he is still there to put his body on the line as captain of Bayern Munich. Amongst all of his personal awards, such as the 100 cap milestone and the Team of the Tournament appearances, there is only one thing that he, his country and its fans will care about. Philipp Lahm went out on a high...

Transfer Madness

     With the World Cup in full swing, everybody is in the football spirit, in Brazil and beyond. Quality players have either departed Brazil or their country didn't qualify for their chance on the biggest stage of all. Some of these players are changing clubs too, and Total Football will have all of the big moves covered this summer.

     The major talking point last summer was Luis Suarez. He tried to force a move away from Liverpool after he was banned for biting an opponent. Ar
senal had a bid of £40,000,001 rejected by the Anfield club but the Gunners believed it triggered a buy-out clause in the Uruguayan's contract. And this summer has a sense of deja-vu about it. Again, Suarez has bitten somebody. Again, clubs still want his signiture. After a prolific season before hand, rumours suggest the big clubs are willing to gamble on such a mindless player. Barcelona are willing to offer Liverpool Alexis Sanchez, plus cash, in order to get their man. Their rivals, Real Madrid are looking to do the same, possibly with Angel Di Maria. All is being kept quiet though, for the time being.
     Liverpool are also
keen to bring in players, in case a deal for Suarez goes through. They have already confirmed the signings of Emre Can and Rickie Lambert and they are now on the verge of completing a deal for the latter's ex-Southampton team mate, Adam Lallana. He completed a medical at the weekend ahead of a proposed £25 million move. The Reds are also looking at Alberto Moreno, the Sevilla left back.

     And it's not just Lallana and Lambert that have departed the Saints this summer, 18 year old left back Luke Shaw has agreed a deal to join Manchester United for £27 million plus any add-ons. The youngster, who made his World Cup debut against Costa Rica, becomes the fourth most expensive defender with the move. The signing of Shaw means that United have waved goodbye to another left back, in Alex Buttner. Dynamo Moscow have recruited the Dutchman for £4.4 million plus add-ons. Another player joining the Red Devils is Spaniard Ander Herrera. The £29 million midfielder, revealed that completing the move was "a dream come true."  

     The rumours surrounding Cesc Fabregas' future have now been settled, with the Spaniard completing a £30 million pound move to Premier League megabucks Chelsea. The move was completed early in the window and comes as a replacement to the departing Frank Lampard. The ex-Arsenal man, who enquired about rejoining his former team, has "unfinished business in the Premier League." The Blues have also parted company with Brazilian centre-back David Luiz for an estimated £40 million. The flamboyant player has joined Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint Germain.

      The Summer Transfer Window has already had its fair share of free transfers too. Bacary Sagna has left Arsenal to join Manchester City, whilst goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon has joined Sunderland from the Premier League champions.Two veterans of the English game have left their clubs for free. Joe Cole has joined Aston Villa from West Ham and Damian Duff may end his career at Melbourne City after being released by Fulham. Hanover 96 striker Mame Biram Diouf, brother of El-Hadj, has left the German side to join Stoke City whilst Kris Boyd has returned to old club, Rangers from Kilmarnock. Yossi Benayoun has ended his long stay in English football and returned home to Israel with Maccabi Haifa whilst Luke Chadwick has made his dream move to hometown club Cambridge United permanent. Perhaps the bargain of the summer so far is Bafetimbi Gomis joining Welsh giants Swansea City. The prolific 'beast' has joined the Swans in their second scoop of the summer - the first being another free transfer in the hands of goalkeeper Lukas Fabianski.

     However, amongst all the talk, their is only one real beast that has moved this summer. None other than the one and only Adeabayo Akinfenwa. The Englishman's second spell at Gillingham ended in release before being snapped up by AFC Wimbledon. He thinks "AFC Wimbledon and Akinfenwa fit well together."

    So that's all the latest big moves from around the world. Many more are expected after the World Cup has finished. Who will your club sign? Are they right for your club? Do you need to bolster your attack, or tighten at the back? Comments and reaction down below and on Twitter: @TotalFootyBlogs. Finally, please help me to decide whether to change this blog into a vlog on YouTube. Only you can decide...

    

Stupid and Stupendous: Luis Suarez

     Wonderful. Marvellous. Loveable. Class. Luis Suarez - the player. Woeful. Mad. Ludicrous. Cheat. Luis Suarez - the human being. Racist and cannibal are words that spring to mind when you take into account the bans he has received, not including cards. The Uruguay man had picked up a total ban of 25 matches from two biting incidents and for racially abusing Manchester United left back, Patrice Evra. And now comes the heaviest of all.

     The Uruguay forward collided with Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini during a FIFA World Cup match on Tuesday. What was to follow was horrific. 'El Pistolero' sunk his teeth into the shoulder of the opposing man - cue a third biting controversy and a 4 month worldwide ban from football.
What many find baffling is his motivation to do such an action. If aggravated, the most some players would react with is a kick or head butt - remember Zidane? But why the bite? We all know he would be arrested if this horrific action was performed on the street. In 1994, Rangers striker Duncan Ferguson was jailed for three months for an on-field head butt whilst playing Raith Rovers. Should the same not happen to Luis Suarez?

     Not only does he harm his own reputation, but the one of the teams, leagues and tournaments he plays in. Because of this infamous event, Suarez has taken the gloss off a brilliant World Cup for teams such as Algeria and Costa Rica. In twenty years time, will the 2014 World Cup be remembered as the one Miroslav Klose drew level with Ronaldo in the tournaments goal scoring charts? No, it will be remembered as one of the most controversial ones we have ever seen. Liverpool have suffered massively due to his actions. The fact he tried to cover up the incident is also embarrassing. Firstly, the dive as though Chiellini had elbowed him in the mouth, followed by the post match comments. "These things happen on the pitch" he said to the press afterwards...  In the aftermath of the racism row, manager Kenny Dalglish stuck by the man, as did the supporters. The same goes after he bit Branislav Ivanovic in April 2013. Former Reds striker Robbie Fowler said that Suarez "has continually dragged the name of the club through the mud," and I couldn't agree more.

     He has also damaged his club's chances of receiving a high price for him if he were to leave Liverpool. After he tore apart England, at only 75% fitness, many said Suarez wouldn't be at the Anfield side much longer - many saying he was worth more than £100 million. The Spanish giants awaited his signature. Now his price has probably halved and nobody will want him at all. If Liverpool were to sell him for the above price, then they would be able to bring in other quality players to replace him. But now that nobody will want him, and his suspension will see him out of most of Liverpool's Champions League group games, Liverpool will lack the funds to replace him with good, Champions League quality. Their dream of getting back into Europe's elite, may just have become a nightmare.


     Luis Suarez has also been on the end of endless jokes about the bite. Big food companies such as Snickers and Nando's tweeted pictures telling him to try their products rather than humans. Scouse comedian John Bishop stated: "Why is everyone having a go at Suarez? We all love an Italian!" The Daily Mail tweeted a picture of altered World Cup stickers whilst crowds gathered to take a picture of themselves being bitten on Copacabana beach.

     Overall, I feel the punishment is not long enough. Biting somebody once is mindless but three times is ludicrous. Any ban longer than a year would have been acceptable, a possible jail sentence too. And the whole cover up, the dive followed by comments from himself and David Lugano put the sport we love to shame. A second World Cup overshadowed by a Suarez moment of madness. Remember - Luis Suarez is treated badly by the English media...

So, what are your thoughts on the situation? Please comment below, on Twitter @TotalFootyBlogs and participate in the poll at the side of this page. Also let me know whether you would rather see Total Football in its current format or as a vlog on YouTube!

 

Transfer Madness

     It's that awkward time in the Summer Transfer Window where players are unsure whether to move before or after a major tournament. With the World Cup just days away, some players have completed deals before jetting off to Brazil. Many players are up for grabs and Total Football will have it all covered right through the summer.

     England's Rickie Lambert has already completed his £4m move to Liverpool from fellow Premier League side Southampton. Speculation of the deal had been kept quiet until he completed the deal the day after his nation's 3-0 victory in a friendly versus Peru. In an open letter on Southampton's website he said: "the people who support this club have been nothing short of amazing" whilst thanked players and staff, past and present. It is still unknown whether Lambert's former teammates, Dejan Lovren and Adam Lallana will join him at the Reds. They are also on the verge of confirming Turkish midfielder Emre Can as their second summer signing for £10m.

     Transfer activity is buzzing all around La Liga as several players have confirmed switches. Title holders Atletico Madrid, are waving goodbye to striker David Villa after just one year. After announcing he was leaving following a "considerable offer from elsewhere" it was later confirmed he would join new MLS side New York City FC, who are partly owned by Manchester City. Although they do not begin playing until 2015, the American side have said he will ply his trade at Australian side Melbourne City (formerly Melbourne Heart).
     Villa's former strike partner, Diego Costa is also on the move. After scoring 36 goals in all competitions last season, his formidable form has sparked interest from Chelsea. Costa has already completed a medical at the English side ahead of a proposed £32m deal.
     Another Spaniard who could be available this summer is Barcelona midfielder, Cesc Fabregas, with his preferred destination the Premier League. His £30m price tag has got Manchester United and Liverpool fans buzzing, but his former club Arsenal have already ruled themselves out. He could however, be on his way to Stamford Bridge with Costa after Chelsea legend Frank Lampard announced he would leave the club after 13 years.
    
     The transfer window isn't just about the big moves either - many players are being snapped up for free. After being released by American outfit Vancouver Whitecaps, Scotland striker Kenny Miller has returned to Rangers for his third spell at the Glasgow side. The Scotsman will be hoping to add to his tally of 57 Rangers goals during his one-year contract. Swiss defender Philippe Senderos, is also returning to the Premier League this time with Aston Villa. He was released after Fulham's relegation to the Championship and manager Paul Lambert believes he will be a 'great addition to the group'. And finally, former Barcelona man Seydou Keita has signed one year deal at Serie A runners up, Roma. The Malian hepled Valencia to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League last season.

     So, have your team made the correct moves so far? Should you be spending on proven stars or youngsters? And, most importantly, who should you sign? Get involved in the comments section below and on Twitter: @TotalFootyBlogs

World Cup Group Stage Guide: Part II

     The FIFA World Cup, Brazil 2014 is less than two weeks away. Two weeks!! Across the footballing globe, excitement is growing, teams are being announced and are playing their final games before the big occasion in June. So who will progress, how will your team do? Sit back and enjoy the Total Football World Cup Group Stage Guide: Part II.

Group E

1) France
2) Switzerland
3) Ecuador
4) Honduras

This group pretty much speaks for itself, with France expected to top Group E with ease. However, team moral could be standing in their way. Remember the huge dressing room bust up that destroyed their tournament last time round? A repeat could hinder their chances very heavily indeed. Honduras have never won a World Cup match and that record isn't expected to change and Ecuador only have the attacking talent of Manchester United's Antonio Valencia, leaving the Swiss to progress as second.

Group F

1) Argentina
2) Nigeria
3) Bosnia and Herzegovina
4) Iran

Argentina's dynamic attacking style is tipped to take them further in this year's World Cup than in previous tournaments. Messi, Lavezzi, Aguero and Higuain are all expected to blow Group F away with expert support play from players like Angel Di Maria. Alejandro Sabella, the Argentina deserves huge credit for the way he has helped to replicate Lionel Messi's Barcelona form for his country. Iran are not really a footballing nation and should finish bottom, while it will be a real dogfight for second. Although Bosnia have the superb attacking talents of Edin Dzeko, I feel it will be the Nigerians that will progress because their squad is littered with seasoned Premier League players such as John Obi Mikel and Peter Odemwingie.

Group G

1) Germany
2) Portugal
3) Ghana
4) United States

Many regard Bayern Munich as the best club team around and most of their big name players are part of a Germany side hoping to be challenging for honours this time around. With players such as: Neuer, Ozil and Reus who can blame people for predicting they'll finish on maximum points in Group G. Their toughest test will come in the form of a Portugeuse side boasting the holder of the Ballon d'Or, Cristiano Ronaldo. His Real Madrid counterpart Pepe will ensure there are no defensive frailties. The United States and Ghana, who did so well last time out, will be left to scrap it out over 3rd.

Group H

1) Belgium
2) Russia
3) South Korea
4) Algeria

Belgium are in a Golden Generation at the moment. Hazard, Benteke, Lukaku, Vertonghen, Kompany, Witsel, I could go on for hours talking about the strength in depth this group-topping side have. Some are even picking them as their dark horse's - the surprise package of the tournament in Brazil. Russia, I feel, have more goals than South Korea - whose main man upfront is Arsenal's Chu-Young Park. And, Algeria are just the unattractive, boring side from England 2010 group.

Where did I predict your country? Should you finish higher? Do you have a chance of winning? Comments are welcomed below and also on Twitter: @TotalFootyBlogs

World Cup Group Stage Guide

     The FIFA World Cup, Brazil 2014 is less than one month away. Across the footballing globe, excitement is growing, teams are being announced and are playing their final games before the big occasion in June. So who will progress, how will your team do? Sit back and enjoy the Total Football World Cup Group Stage Guide.

Group A

1) Brazil
2) Croatia
3) Cameroon
4) Mexico

The hosts should get through to the knockout stages relatively easily in one of the weaker groups in the tournament. Although Mexico have a quality strike force in Manchester United Javier Hernandez and Villarreal's Giovani dos Santos, I feel that they lack in other areas of the field to provide them with chances. This is why Group A will be close battle for 2nd. A shaky defence is what could cost Cameroon, with Benoit Asoou-Ekotto their only real solidarity. Therefore world class players such as Mario Mandzukic and Luka Modric could hurt them in the crucial game on 18th June.

Group B

1) Spain
2) Netherlands
3) Chile
4) Australia

Any other group and Chile might have stood a chance of progressing, but unfortunately for them they have been thrown into a group with the finalists from last time out. Players such as Aturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez deserve a chance to shine in the biggest tournament of all. Australia aren't expected to produce with League 1 and A-League players in their squad. In Group B, it's just fingers crossed that we don't see the same, dirty game of football we did in the 2010 World Cup Final.

Group C

1) Ivory Coast
2) Greece
3) Columbia
4) Japan

This is one of the tighter groups in this year's competition. Stars such as Yaya Toure, Gervinho and Didier Drogba should see Cote D'Ivoire top Group C. So the dogfight in this group will be for second. Japan don't particularly have strength in depth when it comes to quality of leagues their players come from, so will most likely finish bottom. Greece are littered with big name players (in more ways than one) from the world's top leagues with Theofanis Gekas always finding his form when he plays for his country. However, Radamel Falcao and Jackson Martinez cannot do everything themselves, so a lack of creativity in behind may put a dent in Columbian hopes.

Group D

1) Italy
2) Uruguay
3) England
4) Costa Rica

My prediction will come as a shock to many Englishmen, but I do not feel they have the quality or big tournament knowhow. Italy are by far the best team in the group, they are used to the climate and have many international class players, thus seeing them top the group. Uruguay too are used to the conditions and have a devastating forward line which could tear the inexperienced Lions apart. They will almost certainly pick up three points off Costa Rica, but a lack of experience could be costly for Roy Hodgson and England.



Where did I predict your country? Should you finish higher? Do you have a chance of winning? Comments are welcomed below!!

Premier League Awards

     Hopefully the excitement of 2013-14 Premier League season has sunk in now and we've all had time to reflect on one of the greatest seasons the country has ever seen. Many people had their opinions on the big issues during the season, nut now it's time to settle it - it's the Total Football Premier League Awards.

Player of the Year
This was the hardest award to pick in more ways than one. Consistency, defence, attack, goals, blocks and the player I feel has all of this in his locker is Yaya Toure. I was so, so close to picking Luis Suarez for the quality of goals and turning his reputation on his head but it had to go to the City man. 20 Premier League goals from midfield is phenomenal and the range of them too - right foot, left foot, free kick, penalty, Toure has it all. Take nothing away from Suarez though as he could easily have won it, but you could play Yaya anywhere on the pitch and he would perform (Suarez could go in goal though!)

Team of the Season
The team I have chosen almost picked itself this year:

Goalkeeper: David Marshall (Cardiff City)

Defence: Seamus Coleman (Everton, RB), Per Mertesacker (Arsenal, CB), Gary Cahill (Chelsea, CB), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea, CB)

Midfield: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool, CDM), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool, RM), Adam Lallana (Southampton, RM), Yaya Toure (Manchester City, CAM)

Attack: Luis Suarez (Liverpool, CF), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool, CF)

 

 

Manager of the Season

There were a few candidates for this award. Brendan Rodgers can't be praised highly enough for the work he has put into Liverpool Football Club over the past two years. Keeping hold of Suarez and regaining Champions League football are just two of a long list of highlights for him. Mark Hughes completely transformed the way that Stoke City play their football and no longer do they just lump the ball upfield. Many people tipped Hull City as the first team to go down this year, but Steve Bruce proved all the doubters wrong and lead the club to their first ever FA Cup final. But Manger of the Year has to go to Tony Pulis for the job he did at Crystal Palace. He arrived at Selhurst Park with the club rock bottom of the Premier League. Determined to keep up his record of never being relegated from the Premier League, Pulis guided the Eagles out of the bottom three by boxing day. Pulis also masterminded victories at home against Chelsea and away to Everton as well as the stunning end of season draw against Liverpool.


Flop of the Season
No surprises for this one as Manchester United scoop the award hands down. Some may say it was all David Moyes' fault, but even Ryan Giggs failed to beat Southampton and Sunderland. The players were mostly to blame for lacklustre performances against City,  Everton, West Brom and Sunderland, amongst others. They conceded 7 goals in total against their city rivals and 3 at home to Liverpool. The way the club handled the sacking of the 'The Chosen One' was particularly embarrassing with the media confirming it almost a day before the club made an official statement. The Red Devils have got some clearing up to do next year.

Villain of the Year
Again there were multiple contenders for this ward. It could have been Hull owner Assem Allam for his attempted name change to Hull Tigers. Or maybe Vincent Tan for his bust up with Malky Makay. But the award eventually went to Newcastle manager, Alan Pardew. David Meyler was collecting the ball from him, eager to reduce the score line, when Pardew leant his head into the chest of the Hull man. Luckily for him, he kept his job and escaped with a 7 game touchline ban and a £100,000 fine. The Magpies weren't ahead for long either. They picked up just three points from their next 10 games...

So what do you think, who would you pick and what would you change? Comments are welcomed below and on Twitter @TotalFootyBlogs  



Premier League Review

     What a season. Goals, gaffes, changing expectations, slip ups and bizarre decisions - all reasons why the Premier League is the best in the world. The early bets were placed on Manchester City and Chelsea, set to take the league by storm once again. Spurs were tipped for the title after their summer spending - how wrong were those predictions? Their North London rivals, Arsenal, were on the hunt for their first piece of silverware since 2005. However, injury to Aaron Ramsey and heavy away defeats saw the title slip out of their fingers. And who would have expected Liverpool, 7th last season, to finish 2nd just two points off the winners on 11th May. Not to forget the decline of Manchester United - after panic buying on deadline day, the Red Devils never showed faith in the new manager and saw them not qualify for Europe for the first time since 1990. All that whilst David Moyes' former team, Everton, rose to the Europa League once more.

     Not to forget the relegation scrap. Cardiff looked as though they would defy all the odds to stay up after a shock victory over Manchester City early doors. But off field issues effected the squad and cost them dearly. Fulham struggled for momentum after employing three different managers. Felix Magath turned out to be the unlucky one as the Cottagers were relegated with games to spare. It was a dogfight  all season for the final relegation place. Norwich, Villa and Sunderland were in there all season. But it was the Canaries, who sacked their manager with five games to go, that dropped a division. Sunderland also pulled off a great escape to survive the drop. Paulo Di Canio had left the club in turmoil but Gus Poyet managed to spearhead a brilliant cup run which replicated in their league results. A dip in form saw them back at the bottom, but an in form Connor Wickham helped them to survive in April.

     And then there were the gaffes. Alan Pardew, putting his head into the chest of Hull midfielder David Meyler. Completely needless, earned himself a 7 game ban and his side picked up just three points from the next ten games. What about referee Andre Marriner, who gave a penalty for handball from Oxlade-Chamberlin which would almost certainly put Chelsea three up against Arsenal. The ball looked to be going wide when it hit the Ox's hand, but to make matters worse, he sent off Kieran Gibbs instead! And who can forget (sorry it has to be said) when Steven Gerrard, the people champion, ultimately handed the title to City with his costly slip against Chelsea.

     All in all it was a great year for football. The title swayed, swayed and swayed again, Liverpool are back where they belong and the tide looks to have turned in Manchester. It may not have had the dramatic last day of 2011-12, but it has the drama on every other day of the year -whether it was on or off field controversies, goals or gaffes we can safely say the 2013-14 Premier League season will live long in the memory...

The Title Run In

     With the season drawing to a close, and the destination of the Premier League title looking certain to go to a North West team. It's all to play for at the top and with Liverpool needing a Manchester City slip up to be back in with a firm chance, some may say it's over, but remember 2013... Here's a guide to the factors that could decide the title race.

The SAS
When they're scoring they're deadly and Liverpool need goals if Man City are to get a draw out of their remaining fixtures because the Etihad club's goal difference is far superior. The Red's pair need to be firing on all cylinders when they face Newcastle at the weekend to put City under pressure. Suarez and Sturridge are also class at bringing other players into the game, Suarez's hold up play in particular is phenomenal. The SAS can win set pieces for Skrtel to attack and penalties for Gerrard to convert.

City's Injury list
Aguero being on it for tonight's game against Villa could be costly. Although injured throughout the season, the Argentine has been the source of many of City's goals this year along with midfield maestro Yaya Toure (go on sing if you want). If Villa are defeated tonight then the title race should be over, especially if Aguero is back for the game against West Ham. Big Yaya has also turned provider on a number of occasions this year, as well as the pair having title run in knowhow - remember...

Adrian
A surprise inclusion to the list is West Ham goalkeeper Adrian. In my opinion, West Ham are the team to beat City with their Spanish keeper playing a key role. A relative unknown at the start of the year, Adrian has caught the attention of many and been the Hammers' saviour many times. His long goal kicks could cause the Manchester City back four, with Andy Carroll being a bully in and around them.


Throughout the season, Liverpool have been helped massively by a lack of cup distraction while City have tremendous strength in depth. Both have world class players that I'm sure will grace the World Cup in the summer. But with Liverpool's recent form and the Citizen's run in, I think the title will be heading back to the Etihad. However, some guy once said: "It's a funny old game..."