The recipients of the annual PFA awards are always cause for great debate and argument amongst fans and the media alike. Club supporters always feel some of their players are most worthy, and the winner is never completely unanimous.
Last nights announcement that Ryan Giggs has won the Player of the year award, and Ashley Young has received the Young Player equivalent are both up for debate.
Ryan Giggs. There is no way that his greatness as a footballer and person over the last 17 Premiership seasons can ever be questioned. If this award was for Premiership player of the last 17 seasons, he would be the unanimous winner.
However its not. What is the point of a trophy which recognises the best player in the league over the course of a season, being given to someone who has been used as a bit part player at best? He has started only 12 premiership games and featured in just 24. In that time he has scored 1 goal. Surely those sorts of statistics suggest he might not have had the biggest impact.
There is serious argument to say he hasn’t even been Manchester United’s most influential player this season, let alone best in the whole league. Out of the six players nominated, 5 play for league leading United.
Last Years winner, Cristiano Ronaldo is once again Premiership top scorer. While not being as dominating as he was to gain the previous two awards, his 17 goals have been a massive contribution and more marked then Giggs. Even if at times he has left fans enraged at his lack of team ethic, he has still been pivotal in United’s attempts to win 5 trophies this season.
Manchester Uniteds run of games in the middle stretch of the season was a key reason for Edwin Van Der Sar’s nomination for the award. His record breaking run of not conceding a goal in 1,311 minutes, was well worthy of recognition. That contribution over a period where United’s rivals were stuttering has definitely helped United maintain their position at the top of the table. It also has put them in good stead for the run in, as they managed to create enough of a cushion to afford home defeats to rivals Liverpool and at Fulham.
Rio Ferdinand’s role in United’s success has often been overlooked. He has featured in only 24 games this season, the same as Giggs. But his role as captain of the side cannot be overlooked. He has been the leader of the team in their quest for league and European glory once again this season. Together with Nemanja Vidic, they have held United together. Their absence was particularly notable in the recent game against Aston Villa.
At one point this season, Nemanja Vidic was the media darling being given much of the credit for United’s great defensive record this season. In his 30 Premiership appearances this season, United have only conceded 17 goals. His claims to the PFA crown were somewhat diminished after his performance in United’s 4-1 home defeat to Liverpool where he was sent off and at fault for two Liverpool goals.
In that game, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard were responsible for leading the biggest upset of the season. Torres didn’t make the list, as he was considered to have not played enough games. Incidentally, he has scored 13 goals in 20 league appearances, 4 less then Giggs.
Steven Gerrard did make the list and could perhaps be the most aggrieved not to have won this seasons honour. He has carried the team throughout the season, in pushing United all the way in the title race this season.
His contribution of 13 goals and 7 assists don’t tell the whole story of what has been a fantastic season. He has rescued 7 points with decisive goals, and inspired them to victory with decisive goals at Old Trafford, St. James’ and the Reebok stadium. With Torres’ injury problems throughout the year, Gerrard has been the catalyst for numerous Liverpool performances over the season.
One of the main problems with the PFA system is the nominations are given out in February. It explains why the United players have dominated the nominations, with others such as Lampard, Torres and Everton’s Joleon Lescott having strong arguments for at least receiving nominations for their vital role in their sides this season.
The timing of the nominations also overlooks the most important part of the season in which the destination of trophies is decided. It counts out Torres' role in Liverpools surge up the table, Lampards key performances in Chelsea reverse in fortunes and Lescott' stewardship which has seen Everton reach the FA cup final.
It also explains why Ashley Young won the Young players award. Villa fans will tell you that up until February he was fantastic. The problem has been that Villa’s slump in form has coincided with him not scoring for 5 months prior to last Saturday, as well as a number of lethargic, ineffective displays from the undoubtedly talent winger.
Manchester City’s Stephen Ireland has a strong case for receiving the award, being a key performer for them over the entire season. He in long spells of the season has outshined £32 million Robinho, which in itself speaks volumes for the level of his performances.
Next year, perhaps the PFA will wait till the end of the season to decide the true recipients of the seasonal awards. Perhaps they could also consider giving the awards to someone who has had a massive part to play in the success’ of his side over the course of that season.
24 April 2009
This weeks Predictions
Bolton vs. Aston Villa
Bolton need another win to qualm any fears of relegation and they could get it here. Aston Villa have been struggling greatly in the last few months with no win since early February. Their main problems have been defensively and the Reebok Stadium is notorious for teams being put under a lot of pressure in their box, which could lead to a Villa collapse.
Score: 2-0
Everton vs. Man City
Everton are on a massive high at the moment with the upcoming FA Cup final. The chairman has been singing the managers praises, and Moyes, has nothing but compliments for his injury hit squad. They have been on a great run since their poor start to the season, without which they could be pushing Arsenal mighty close for 4th place right now.
City struggle greatly away from home and have nothing to play for now. This could end up the same as Sven’s last game in charge up at Middlesbrough.
Score: 3-0
Fulham vs. Stoke
This encounter features two teams who have performed above all expectations this season. Fulham’s turnaround has been remarkable and Roy Hodgson deserves all the praise for the marvellous job he has done. They play very good football and are very difficult to beat away from home.
In contrast, Stoke have been a disaster away from home, picking up only one win. Tony Pulis has his side’s determined home performances to thank for the clubs expected survival in the Premiership.
Score: 2-0
Hull vs. Liverpool
Hull look in serious trouble. After their astonishing start to the season, their fall from grace has been equally dramatic. They have very difficult fixtures to come and are the team that Newcastle and Middlesbrough will be hoping to overtake.
Liverpool are in great form and are giving the title a real go in the run in. Rafael Benitez will be kicking himself that he didn’t encourage his side to play in a similar fashion earlier on in the season, which has probably cost them the title.
Score: 1-4
West Brom vs. Sunderland
West Brom look like they are going down, but Tony Mowbray will be determined his side don’t do so without a fight. If they have any chance of staying up, they have to win this game. Over the season, their big problems have been in both penalty areas and they will need a dramatic reverse in fortunes if they are going to keep their hopes alive.
Sunderland have had good home wins recently and will see this as an ideal opportunity to secure their Premiership status for another season.
Score: 2-1
West Ham vs. Chelsea
This has the makings of a good game. West Ham play good football and Zola has them playing the right way. He has worked wonders with a squad which has had no luck at all with injuries. The fans will be up for a chance to end Chelsea’s title hopes once and for all.
Chelsea are still plugging away in the league, but look to have left it to late. They may have an eye on the Nou Camp and could take their foot of the gas at Upton Park.
Score: 2-1
Manchester United vs. Tottenham
Its Man United’s title to lose now. They just need to keep churning out results to both retain their title and keep momentum up ahead of their clash with in form Arsenal in the Champions League.
Tottenham are safe now and hoping to get into Europe again next season, which would be a remarkable achievement for Harry Redknapp considering the clubs position when he arrived.
Score: 2-0
Newcastle vs. Portsmouth
The Shearer effect has yet to reap any real words, with only a point at Stoke to show for two spirited second half displays. His side need a win here against a struggling Portsmouth side and will be hoping the return of Mark Viduka can ignite his team going forward.
Equally, Portsmouth need to start picking up some points to avoid being sucked into the relegation spots late in the season.
Score: 1-0
Arsenal vs. Middlesbrough
Arsenal’s return to form has been impressive. They performed well up at Anfield and will feel they threw away the win in the end. They have played some great football going forward and will be hoping they can hold it together at the back ahead for the upcoming Champions League games.
Middlesbrough look to be in dire straights. They could of turned the corner after their win against Liverpool recently but their fortunes have hardly improved. Gareth Southgate has a task on his hands keeping his club in the top flight.
Score: 3-0
Blackburn vs. Wigan
This is set to be a real dogfight. Blackburn are fighting for their lives and Wigan are also a physical side. The game promises to be an old fashioned contest and will not be one for lovers of flowing football.
Sam Allardyce needs a result here or his side could fall through the trap door.
Score: 0-0
Bolton need another win to qualm any fears of relegation and they could get it here. Aston Villa have been struggling greatly in the last few months with no win since early February. Their main problems have been defensively and the Reebok Stadium is notorious for teams being put under a lot of pressure in their box, which could lead to a Villa collapse.
Score: 2-0
Everton vs. Man City
Everton are on a massive high at the moment with the upcoming FA Cup final. The chairman has been singing the managers praises, and Moyes, has nothing but compliments for his injury hit squad. They have been on a great run since their poor start to the season, without which they could be pushing Arsenal mighty close for 4th place right now.
City struggle greatly away from home and have nothing to play for now. This could end up the same as Sven’s last game in charge up at Middlesbrough.
Score: 3-0
Fulham vs. Stoke
This encounter features two teams who have performed above all expectations this season. Fulham’s turnaround has been remarkable and Roy Hodgson deserves all the praise for the marvellous job he has done. They play very good football and are very difficult to beat away from home.
In contrast, Stoke have been a disaster away from home, picking up only one win. Tony Pulis has his side’s determined home performances to thank for the clubs expected survival in the Premiership.
Score: 2-0
Hull vs. Liverpool
Hull look in serious trouble. After their astonishing start to the season, their fall from grace has been equally dramatic. They have very difficult fixtures to come and are the team that Newcastle and Middlesbrough will be hoping to overtake.
Liverpool are in great form and are giving the title a real go in the run in. Rafael Benitez will be kicking himself that he didn’t encourage his side to play in a similar fashion earlier on in the season, which has probably cost them the title.
Score: 1-4
West Brom vs. Sunderland
West Brom look like they are going down, but Tony Mowbray will be determined his side don’t do so without a fight. If they have any chance of staying up, they have to win this game. Over the season, their big problems have been in both penalty areas and they will need a dramatic reverse in fortunes if they are going to keep their hopes alive.
Sunderland have had good home wins recently and will see this as an ideal opportunity to secure their Premiership status for another season.
Score: 2-1
West Ham vs. Chelsea
This has the makings of a good game. West Ham play good football and Zola has them playing the right way. He has worked wonders with a squad which has had no luck at all with injuries. The fans will be up for a chance to end Chelsea’s title hopes once and for all.
Chelsea are still plugging away in the league, but look to have left it to late. They may have an eye on the Nou Camp and could take their foot of the gas at Upton Park.
Score: 2-1
Manchester United vs. Tottenham
Its Man United’s title to lose now. They just need to keep churning out results to both retain their title and keep momentum up ahead of their clash with in form Arsenal in the Champions League.
Tottenham are safe now and hoping to get into Europe again next season, which would be a remarkable achievement for Harry Redknapp considering the clubs position when he arrived.
Score: 2-0
Newcastle vs. Portsmouth
The Shearer effect has yet to reap any real words, with only a point at Stoke to show for two spirited second half displays. His side need a win here against a struggling Portsmouth side and will be hoping the return of Mark Viduka can ignite his team going forward.
Equally, Portsmouth need to start picking up some points to avoid being sucked into the relegation spots late in the season.
Score: 1-0
Arsenal vs. Middlesbrough
Arsenal’s return to form has been impressive. They performed well up at Anfield and will feel they threw away the win in the end. They have played some great football going forward and will be hoping they can hold it together at the back ahead for the upcoming Champions League games.
Middlesbrough look to be in dire straights. They could of turned the corner after their win against Liverpool recently but their fortunes have hardly improved. Gareth Southgate has a task on his hands keeping his club in the top flight.
Score: 3-0
Blackburn vs. Wigan
This is set to be a real dogfight. Blackburn are fighting for their lives and Wigan are also a physical side. The game promises to be an old fashioned contest and will not be one for lovers of flowing football.
Sam Allardyce needs a result here or his side could fall through the trap door.
Score: 0-0
23 April 2009
Glory, Glory Wolverhampton
Matthew Rumble
18th April
One name on the Wolverhampton Wanderers team sheet is always good for a goal. This weekend, club talisman Sylvan Ebanks-Blake proved that point at the most important moment, scoring the goal which sent the club back to the Premiership.
Football league player of the season, Championship top scorer and hero amongst Wolves fans. There was no man better for or more fitting to apply the vital finish.
The see of emotion which swept the Molineux pitch at full time was a clear sign of the importance of such an achievement to the success-starved Wolverhampton public.
It also indicates the scale of what has been achieved by manager Mick McCarthy and his young British squad.
The victory Wolves needed against QPR on Saturday was achieved thanks to Ebanks-Blake’s goal. It confirmed Wolves promotion and, at the same time as barring a Birmingham City miracle, ensured the club will win their first trophy since the 1988 Johnstone’s paint trophy equivalent.
Some may argue the clubs most recent success, their promotion via the 2002-03 play offs, was a trophy of repute. However, the clubs performance this season has been much more worthy of the trophy soon to be acquired from the cabinet of their nearest and dearest, West Bromwich Albion.
The season has marked similarities with their last promotion. Both being achieved by teams entirely British is the least coincidental.
When Wolves were promoted their Irish right back, Dennis Irwin, missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup to Rotherham.
6 years on, young Irish full back Kevin Foley missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup. Against Rotherham.
He obviously overcame that disappointment, defying his youth by becoming the clubs Fans Player of the Season.
In 2002, Wolves under Dave Jones signed two former Manchester United players Dennis Irwin and Paul Ince to add some experienced know how.
McCarthy’s youthful approach instead led him to sign two players who had much less impact at United.
Those two were David Jones, and a certain Sylvan Ebanks-Blake.
He like the rest of McCarthy’s young side will be a breath of fresh air in the Premiership next season. McCarthy will need to add some quality in defence to the fast, flowing attacking football which will certainly take Premiership sides by surprise.
Wolves fans will be hoping that they will again be celebrating on the pitch at the end of next season, but almost certainly it would be for finishing 16 positions lower then they did this season.
18th April
One name on the Wolverhampton Wanderers team sheet is always good for a goal. This weekend, club talisman Sylvan Ebanks-Blake proved that point at the most important moment, scoring the goal which sent the club back to the Premiership.
Football league player of the season, Championship top scorer and hero amongst Wolves fans. There was no man better for or more fitting to apply the vital finish.
The see of emotion which swept the Molineux pitch at full time was a clear sign of the importance of such an achievement to the success-starved Wolverhampton public.
It also indicates the scale of what has been achieved by manager Mick McCarthy and his young British squad.
The victory Wolves needed against QPR on Saturday was achieved thanks to Ebanks-Blake’s goal. It confirmed Wolves promotion and, at the same time as barring a Birmingham City miracle, ensured the club will win their first trophy since the 1988 Johnstone’s paint trophy equivalent.
Some may argue the clubs most recent success, their promotion via the 2002-03 play offs, was a trophy of repute. However, the clubs performance this season has been much more worthy of the trophy soon to be acquired from the cabinet of their nearest and dearest, West Bromwich Albion.
The season has marked similarities with their last promotion. Both being achieved by teams entirely British is the least coincidental.
When Wolves were promoted their Irish right back, Dennis Irwin, missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup to Rotherham.
6 years on, young Irish full back Kevin Foley missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup. Against Rotherham.
He obviously overcame that disappointment, defying his youth by becoming the clubs Fans Player of the Season.
In 2002, Wolves under Dave Jones signed two former Manchester United players Dennis Irwin and Paul Ince to add some experienced know how.
McCarthy’s youthful approach instead led him to sign two players who had much less impact at United.
Those two were David Jones, and a certain Sylvan Ebanks-Blake.
He like the rest of McCarthy’s young side will be a breath of fresh air in the Premiership next season. McCarthy will need to add some quality in defence to the fast, flowing attacking football which will certainly take Premiership sides by surprise.
Wolves fans will be hoping that they will again be celebrating on the pitch at the end of next season, but almost certainly it would be for finishing 16 positions lower then they did this season.
1 April 2009
Another, Saviour has returned.
So the most overdue managerial appointment has finally been made.
In yet another twist to this strangest of Premiership seasons, the battle for survival in the big league now has another interesting element: The Shearer Factor.
Alan Shearer has finally decided to get up from the comfort of the Match of the Day studios and do the job Newcastle United fans, and football fans in general have been waiting to see.
Thousands of desperate Geordies will be hoping that the man deemed as ‘God’ in Newcastle could start to become one of the great English managers of our time by preserving their Premiership status.
One man perhaps more desperate than the thousands of Newcastle fans is Chairman Mike Ashley. He will be hoping by employing Shearer that not only will the club stay up, but the fans may forgive him in part for his disastrous tenure so far.
Keeping Newcastle in the league certainly looks a difficult task, but Shearers timing is a clear sign that he isn’t one to shun a challenge.
To use an expression reminiscent of armchair pundits like Shearer, they really do need to win their home games to have any chance of staying up.
However, his first game as Newcastle boss couldn’t get much harder: Chelsea at home.
That is followed by difficult journeys to relegation rivals Stoke, as well as a trip to play resurgent Tottenham.
Shearer will be relying on the St. James’ faithful to pull his struggling side through in home encounters against fellow strugglers Portsmouth and Middlesboro, as well as Fulham.
Their run looks very difficult, with away trips to Liverpool and Villa also on the cards.
Shearer will be undoubtedly reliant on what will be fantastic support for his side in the run in. There will be joyous scenes on Tyneside at the news their ‘saviour’ has come home.
On the pitch, Shearer will also be desperate for old striking partner Michael Owen to do him a favour and save his side from the drop.
Owen and Shearer together could prove once again to be a fruitful partnership but if it doesn’t times look seriously bleak for Newcastle.
They need a serious shift in fortunes, but if there was ever a man to strike confidence into such a miserable side, it would be ‘God’.
In yet another twist to this strangest of Premiership seasons, the battle for survival in the big league now has another interesting element: The Shearer Factor.
Alan Shearer has finally decided to get up from the comfort of the Match of the Day studios and do the job Newcastle United fans, and football fans in general have been waiting to see.
Thousands of desperate Geordies will be hoping that the man deemed as ‘God’ in Newcastle could start to become one of the great English managers of our time by preserving their Premiership status.
One man perhaps more desperate than the thousands of Newcastle fans is Chairman Mike Ashley. He will be hoping by employing Shearer that not only will the club stay up, but the fans may forgive him in part for his disastrous tenure so far.
Keeping Newcastle in the league certainly looks a difficult task, but Shearers timing is a clear sign that he isn’t one to shun a challenge.
To use an expression reminiscent of armchair pundits like Shearer, they really do need to win their home games to have any chance of staying up.
However, his first game as Newcastle boss couldn’t get much harder: Chelsea at home.
That is followed by difficult journeys to relegation rivals Stoke, as well as a trip to play resurgent Tottenham.
Shearer will be relying on the St. James’ faithful to pull his struggling side through in home encounters against fellow strugglers Portsmouth and Middlesboro, as well as Fulham.
Their run looks very difficult, with away trips to Liverpool and Villa also on the cards.
Shearer will be undoubtedly reliant on what will be fantastic support for his side in the run in. There will be joyous scenes on Tyneside at the news their ‘saviour’ has come home.
On the pitch, Shearer will also be desperate for old striking partner Michael Owen to do him a favour and save his side from the drop.
Owen and Shearer together could prove once again to be a fruitful partnership but if it doesn’t times look seriously bleak for Newcastle.
They need a serious shift in fortunes, but if there was ever a man to strike confidence into such a miserable side, it would be ‘God’.
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