L2 Preview..

With the season kicking off in a matter of days, its now time to preview my personal favourite league.

I mean, you have Rochdale, who are approaching their 34th year in the 'Rochdale division'. Will this be the year they finally leave L2, one way or another? The loss of David Perkins to Colchester will hurt them, but they've invested wisely otherwise, with the signings of experienced players such as Ciaran Toner and Jon Shaw, and their attacking brand of football is always refreshing to see. So close yet so far last season, lets hope they do it this time round and there's no playoff final hangover. If there's anyone I wouldnt begrudge promotion to, its Keith Hill's men.

In terms of time spent in L2, Darlington arent far behind of course, and in a shock twist...havent spent a lot of money! That's right, the Quakers budget has actually been cut significantly this season, which makes a change. However, with Dave Penney in charge, they'll be right up there..even if he isnt used to working with a moderate budget. Pawel Abbott is a potential match winner in his own right when kept fit, and Steven Foster was arguably the best defender in the division last season. Both players will be key for the Quakers.

Who else will be the moneybags of the division, though? That mantra has seemingly moved to Bradford City, who are of course far too big for this league. Obviously. They're a massive club, they used to be in the Premiership once you know. But in all seriousness, after a season of massive underachievement last season, the pressure is now on for Stuart McCall to deliver, or he'll be picking up his P45. The clearout at Valley Parade was massive, with lots of players released to make way for new blood. Experienced pro's have been added to the Bradford ranks, with Chris Brandon, Graham Lee, and Paul Arnison all signed up. All 3 players have won promotion from L2 before, and their experience will surely be key. The bookies favourites for promotion, and with 10,000+ crowds - all eyes will be on Bradford City to deliver.

Speaking of delusions of grandeur, what about Bury? Every summer its the same with their fans - "we're going to win promotion, this is our year, we won the FA Cup once"...etc etc. Well this year, it could be. The paralells with Rochdale (before their playoff season) are scary, changing manager to a local hero, finishing the season strongly with a young side, and playing good attacking football. And they've even kept hold of Andy Bishop, who surely needs a dope test for staying at Gigg Lane for so long.

Shrewsbury arent far behind Bradford in the moneybags stakes, and for my money (ha, see what I did there?) - are the team to beat. With the young and talented Paul Simpson in charge, who has won this league before with Carlisle, Shrewsbury look strong enough to put last season's disappointment behind them. Grant Holt and Richard Walker are good strikers who know where the back of the net is, and will guarantee goals at this level, probably to be supplied by the classy Ben Davies and clever Mark Pugh in midfield. And at the other end, the experienced Michael Jackson and the underrated Kelvin Langmead will shore things up at the back. Strong all over the park, with a good spine to the team, I fancy Shrewsbury to take the title.

Their challengers? Well the aforementioned Rochdale and Darlington will look to kick on from last season, and Wycombe will be looking to improve on their playoff finish, though the signing of Barnet comedy reject and non-league superstar Magno Vieira will probably go no way towards doing so. Other signings have been more impressive however, and the enigma that is Leon Knight will always score goals at this level (that's if he's not asking for a transfer request, which at time of print, it looks like he has done!), along with the experienced Scott McGleish, who like a good wine has improved with age. With the experienced Peter Taylor at the helm, Wycombe will be in and around the top 6 once again.

I like the look of Chesterfield as well. If Lester continues to bang them in, and they can keep the pacy and exciting Jamie Ward - they'll certainly be a threat. The loss of Peter Leven to Franchise FC will hurt the Spireites, but the additions of Robert Page and Kevin Austin will give Chesterfield some much needed experience at the back. Consistency is the key for Chesterfield this season, a lack of it cost them a playoff place last season.

The relegated sides from L1, honestly, have never looked weaker. Luton and Bournemouth are in a bit of a state financially, with the former looking to just stay alive. Bournemouth could be thereabouts, should they continue with last season's excellent end of season form, but I feel a season of consolidation is more likely. They need to sort themselves out off the field before even entertaining thoughts about promotion.

Port Vale could mount a challenge, and of the 4, look the most likely to do so. Lee Sinnott looks like a competent manager, and has had great success in non-league with Farsley Celtic, with 3 promotions in 4 seasons. It was a case of damage limitation for Sinnott last season, with the club pretty much doomed as soon as he took over, and the job really starts now. At Gillingham the situation is quite similar, though Mark Stimson had a lot more time to try and salvage Gillingham's season, and failed to do so. A good start is crucial for both managers if they're to mount a promotion challenge, and a scouting network outside the non-league would help. There's a big gap between the BSP and L1, you know.

The 2 promoted teams are obviously rubbish. And will probably get relegated on account of being rubbish.

Oh..you wanted a serious prediction. Well honestly, they'll both be fine. Both teams got promoted playing good football, which will stand them in good stead in the less physical L2, and have enough momentum and big enough fanbases to get to the dreaded 50 points. Out of the two, I can see Aldershot maybe suprising a few people, after years in the wilderness. They have a young hungry squad, and pace is their main asset - they have it in abundance, and they could spring a few shocks next season, with teams pushing high up the park not knowing what to expect. Their passionate crowds are always guaranteed to get behind them too. Who's to bet against back to back promotions for the Shots? Stranger things have happened.

As for Exeter, well, Marcus Stewart could be the signing of the summer in my eyes. He may have lost that yard of pace, but his brain is as quick as ever. Like Aldershot, after years out of the league, Exeter wont want to lose their newly aqquired league status too quickly, and I cant see them doing so. One thing though - Tisdale? Ditch the ridiculous suits mate.

What about the darkhorses? Well thats easy - Lincoln City. They have the 3 things I look out for when looking for potential darkhorses. Experienced manager? The instantly likeable Peter Jackson, who took over last season to save the Imps from the dreaded drop. He has won promotion from this league before, lets not forget, with Huddersfield Town, and before his treatment for cancer last season, Lincoln were perhaps on course for a playoff place. Proven goalscorer? A certain David Graham, who if kept off the booze and fags, (and Jackson has done so before) will piss all over this division. He's that good. And he'll have the young and impressive Lee Frecklington to provide the assists, who is surely due a big move soon, along with Stefan Oakes, who has as good a left foot as you're likely to see in the division. And finally, momentum being carried over from last season? Yep, despite the absense of Jackson, Lincoln finished the season in fine form under the guidence of Iffy Inoira. All that, throw in some strong aquisitions in the summer, and you have the recipe for success. Oh yes, this is Lincoln's year, I can feel it.

Another dark horse? How about Alan Buckley's Grimsby Town? In his 3rd spell at the club, Buckley is proving to have the midas touch once again, after guiding the Mariners to safety in L2, and then to Wembley last season in the JPT. With the right blend of youth and experience, a conscious effort to play good football, and some strong summer additions - Chris Llewennan and Robbie Stockdale in particular, Grimsby could be one to watch next season, though the lack of a natural goalscorer could count against them. Away fans certainly wont relish going there on a cold Tuesday night, anyway.

There is, of course, the relegation battle to discuss. One spot will no doubt go to Luton Town, who are in total and utter disarray. The 30 point deduction on the Hatters is harsh, undeserved, and will ultimately seal their fate before the season begins. With no money, no prospects, and a paper thin squad, its desperate times indeed for Luton. Cometh the man, cometh the Drewe, perhaps?

But what about the other spot? Accrington Stanley look like the obvious suspect, with a lack of dealing in the transfer market, and a poor squad to boot. Their crowds are consistently low, and it will be another season of struggle for the Stanley I feel. After punching above their weight for so long, it might be time for Accrington to drop. And you know what, it might be for the best. A team like Accrington just cant sustain League football, simple as that.

Dagenham and Barnet could also struggle. Like Accrington, both teams havent made any great moves in the transfer market, and both find themselves at the wrong end of the budget scale, with a lack of money and poor crowds. Their saving graces could be the astute management of John Still and Paul Fairclough, who I rate very highly indeed. Let's hope so in Barnet's case anyway, a team with a fantastic set of fans, a great breeding ground for young players to ply their trade, and the odd comedy player (see: Anthony Charles, Liam Hatch, Cliff Inakurang, and Magno Vieira..)

Bournemouth and Rotherham could also be sound bets to struggle, depending on the severity of their impending points deductions. It would be a great shame if the relegation battle was settled in such a way, but that's just the way of modern football these days, especially in the lower leagues. No-one ever looks out for the smaller clubs, do they?

And of course, Chester City. If there's one thing that stays true in L2, its a Chester City season. A season that will promise so much until Christmas, when a scandal rocks the club, and the team plummets down the table, only to scrape to the 50 point mark. I dont expect anything less this season, and I dont think Chester fans expect anything less, such is their inability to get excited about any kind of good start.

But what about the others? Well, fans of Brentford, Macclesfield, Morecambe, Notts County, and Rotherham - its mid-table mediocrity for you...I think. But look on the bright side, you could be off to Histon and Lewes this season...

--

Champions: Shrewsbury

Promoted: Lincoln, Bradford

Playoffs: Darlington, Rochdale, Bury, Aldershot

Relegated: Accrington Stanley, Luton

BSP Preview..

Oh yes. No ego's or pampered stars in this league, just tinpot grounds and long ball football. And I wouldnt have it any other way.

First up, it has to be the Gulls - the most televised team in the country (outside the top flight), I'll have you know. All bias aside, I honestly see us as one of the favourites, if not the outright favourites. Improvements have been made in the right areas, with lots more strength in depth at our disposal, and the summer signings have been of the highest standard. A more expansive style of play has also been promised, which gives us more options. However, it certainly wont be easy. Expectation will be higher, and a good start will be key for us - we cant afford to be suffering from any hangover. Despite all this, I'll stick my neck out and say Champions. That's not to say we wont be short of challengers..

Stevenage will be right up there in my opinion. Love him or hate him (and most lean towards the latter) - Graham Westley is a good manager in the BSP, though it will be interesting to see if he's learnt his mistakes from last time at Broadhall Way. They've spent a bit of money - most of it wisely, on players that are experienced at this level. And importantly, they've kept hold of Steve Morison, who is a class act. The set up at Stevenage has always been in place for the Football League, will this be the year they get their act together and get promoted?

Rushden are also looking good, though where they've got the money from with their crowds and budget I'll never know. Sounds like a shit or bust situation up there, they really have gambled for promotion. But again, an experienced manager at the helm in Gary Hill, and a very potent strikeforce in Clare and Phillips. The good times could be returning at Nene Park, though I do wonder about the consequences if things dont go according to plan. They certainly wont be getting my sympathy if things go wrong.

Oxford? Certainly underachieved last year, and with their crowds, budget, and fresh ambition you have to fancy them. They've made some good signings so far - perfect examples of biding your time to get the targets you really want, instead of rushing into the market. They've always been defensively sound, with a great record last season, and if they can add goals to the equation then they will be a big threat. Signings like Lewis Haldane and James Constable suggest they will do so. Two of the best bits of business from the whole summer, in my opinion.

The two relegated sides are two interesting cases in my view. Wrexham will be there or thereabouts with the the wily Brian Little in charge, the only manager currently managing in the BSP to have achieved promotion from the division. His experience and contacts from around the divisions could be key. The squad looks strong, and I can see Little getting the best out of them with a clean slate from last season. They even have the journeymantastic Jefferson Louis to call upon, which is great news for everyone concerned.

Mansfield have finally sorted their off-field problems, at long last. However, with a new squad effectively being built from scratch, promotion may be beyond them. Billy McEwen will steady the ship at Field Mill, but its a case of too much, too soon for Mansfield. A season of transition I think. But on the brightside, at least they're not called Harchester United.

Last season's nearly men then. NCBA (That's Nigel Clough's Burton Albion..god forbid you dont mention them both together!) havent done enough in the market for me. Key players such as Daryl Clare and Mark Greaves have left, with no replacements in the pipeline. Playoffs at best, and the same for Cambridge who have made too many changes in a short space of time. Continuinity is key, and Cambridge lack it right now. They also lack a good manager it seems, after Jimmy Quinn was scandalously sacked, despite guiding the U's to Wembley.

For a darkhorse, as much as I dont like him, Steve Evans has made some shrewd signings indeed for Crawley Town, and has even managed to keep the impressive Jamie Cook around as well. With no point deduction hampering their progress this time around, Crawley could be around the playoffs if they stay consistent, as on their day they can beat anyone. It's just not their day often enough. They're the team everyone loves to hate, and Evans will no doubt use it to their advantage, with his 'everyone's against us mentality.

And I rate Liam Daish so highly that Ebbsfleet could indeed be in line for a playoff spot. The talented Daish and his squad will look to build on their FA Trophy win from last season and keep the thousands upon thousands of owners happy. John Akinde will be key to their hopes, providing they can keep hold of him, with Peterborough apparantly interested. One thing's for sure, if Daish isnt picking the team, he'll be out of Stonebridge Road. He doesnt suffer fools gladly.

Forest Green are another team I feel could mount a challenge, though the losses of key players such as top scorer Stuart Fleetwood and skipper Michael Brough will no doubt hurt them. Rovers' squad still possesses a lot of genuine quality however, with a healthy mix of youth and experience. And with Jim Harvey in charge, you're always guaranteed good, progressive football. A great example of how to run a club within your means, and still be successful. Other clubs in the division should take note.

Grays Athletic are looking to do a Hereford. No, they're not loaning players left right and centre, Chairman Mick Woodward has took over the managers job, ala Graham Turner. With the squad at his disposal, a playoff challenge isnt beyond the relms of possibility, though Woodward's lack of management experience may work against him, though he didnt do too badly last season.

What about the new boys? Kettering Town could ruffle a few feathers, after breaking numerous records in the Conference North last season. Their squad is packed with familiar names such as Darren Wrack and Lee Harper, and they'll be looking to do more than just survive.

Barrow are a team that buck the trend somewhat, with a management duo that is actually rather successful. Joe Mercer and Malcolm Allison have worked in tandem to great effect so far for Barrow, and I can see their success continuing. With some solid signings so far, I expect Barrow to stay up, despite their reluctance to go full-time.

Despite winning the BSS last season, Lewes parted company with then manager Steve King, and in turn most of their squad. Does anything suprise you in Football any more? The fans discontent is increasing, with boycotts being considered. A big gamble for Lewes, which I believe wont pay off. A tough season could await The Rooks, and the same could be said for Eastbourne Boro, though their mean defence could prove otherwise, with 20 clean sheets last season. The BSP is a different prospect altogether though, and Eastbourne's defence will need to produce similar results next season.

Other strugglers will surely include Altrincham, who gained their third repreive from relegation in a row last season due to other clubs financial difficulties. Some would say this is lucky, I'd say it's smart and prudent on the part of Altrincham. Fair play to them for running their club properly, unlike others.

And no doubt Northwich Victoria will struggle, with unpaid tax bills not helping their cause whatsoever. Off field troubles never help matters on the field, and the goals of Lee Steele will be key for them once again if they are to survive. Another miracle act from Dino Maamria may be required, with the Tunisian pulling off the impossible to keep the Vics up last season.

I dont like Woking's chances either. The appointment of Kim Grant is certainly an interesting one, with Woking looking towards a new approach, with directors of football and all. Drastic change like this is always risky, and with talisman Marvin Morgan departing for Aldershot, things dont look good for the Cards.

As for the others, I expect them to be fine. Not good enough to mount a challenge, but too good to struggle. Now watch the likes of Kidderminster go ahead and rip up the form book..

--
Champions: Torquay
Playoffs: Oxford, Wrexham, Stevenage, Grays
Relegated: Northwich, Lewes, Woking, Altrincham

A new dawn for English Cricket..

As one era ends, another begins.

After leading with integrity and drive throughout his tenure, a tearful Michael Vaughan resigned as England captain on Sunday, admitting that things had quite simply taken their toll.

Vaughan had put his heart and soul into it for five years, but the job had consumed him for too long. He can leave with his head held high as the most successful England captain of all time, and will always be held in high regard. He will no doubt be remembered for the fantastic Ashes win of 2005, among other achievements.

It was, however, time to go.

Clearly Vaughan was struggling for form and confidence, and as captain, this rubs off on the rest of the team. How can players take advice and follow orders from a player who is unable to perform himself? It undermines everything. The burden had become too much for Vaughan, so he quit with dignity, rather than prolonging the agony.

Tactically, he was astute as they come, and as a man, he was a class act. But most of all, he had respect. He will be missed. Hopefully he can rekindle the form that made him so feared as a batsman in 2003, when he was ranked as the best in the world.

But was the appointment of Kevin Pietersen a good one? Probably not, in my eyes.

The demands of the captiancy could well restrict Pietersen, who is undoubtedbly at his best when unshackled and free. And does Pietersen have the temperament to lead? Has he any experience in leading? The appointment of Pietersen is definately a gamble, a gamble that certainly proved to be disastarous when Andrew Flintoff was given the role, with whom the pressures of the job became too much.

My personal preference would have been Andrew Strauss, who captained the side against Pakistan two summers ago and did himself no harm at all. With his maturity and experience, Strauss looked the ideal choice for many - apart from the ECB themselves.

Captaining England could make or break Kevin Pietersen. Let's hope it doesnt all end in tears, though if Sunday is anything to go by, it almost certainly will.

On the cusp of greatness..

It's been a good week for Andy Murray. Not only has he claimed the biggest win of his career so far, after beating Novak Djokovic in the final of the Cincinnatti Masters, but he has also claimed 6th place in the tennis rankings, his highest position to date. And with the Olympics and US Open to come, who would bet against Murray making even greater strides?

Where David Ferrer and Nikolay Davydenko have stalled and struggled, Murray has found some form - and then some. He has improved his best showings this year at the French Open (third round) and Wimbledon (quarter-finals) and on route to his Masters win, Murray defeated the likes of Carlos Moya and Ivo Karlovic - in sweltering heat no less. But beating Djokovic twice in two weeks was the true statement of intent from the young Scotsman.

You see, Murray is in the form of his life right now, and it is at the hard-courts where Murray can really prosper. His game is so intellegent, with a variety of shots, and he used all of this to his advantage against Djokovic, who in his own right, is a fantastic player.

But it's not just on the tennis courts where Murray has proved himself to be intelligent. His set up off the court has proved to be equally fruitful, with many people doubting if it could work. Those doubts have now surely receeded, with Murray looking more relaxed and content than he ever has, on and off the court.

Now Murray needs to do this on a consistent basis. A Masters event is a start, but a Slam is required if Murray is to truly realise his potential. The ball is in his court..

A squad in review..

Torquay United Squad Review:

Manager: Paul Buckle

A surprise choice for the job last year, Bucks suprised us all and probably exceeded expectations in his first season. A strong team spirit and work ethic was the secret for our success last season, as well as some very impressive signings. However, at times he proved himself to be tactically naive, relying too much on the long ball with no plan B in place. Yes, he made mistakes, all young managers do - this is his chance to make up for them.

Goalkeepers:

GK: Martin Rice:

A number one keeper he certainly aint. A competant enough shot stopper, but thats where the praise ends for me. Nervous on crosses, and his decision making leaves a lot to be desired at times, with the defence not knowing if he's coming or going. Hardly inspires confidence in his defence, or the fans. Made 12 appearances last season, mostly as back-up.

GK: Michael Poke:

Surely the number one keeper. Confident and assured between the sticks, and no obvious weakness in his game -Poke is the keeper we were crying out for all of last season. It's a position where you need consistency and continuinity and Poke will give us that. Hopefully the recall clause wont kick in at a critical stage of the season. Played 6 times last season, a time where we broke the record for consecutive clean sheets.

Overall, we're pretty strong in this area. Rice wont pull up any trees, but on his day is a decent back-up. Poke on the otherhand is the solid goalkeeper we've been crying out for since Andy Marriott left in 2004. As long as Southampton don't recall him (and they shouldnt need to, with 3 keepers ahead of him) - we're fine in this area.

Defenders:

DL: Kevin Nicholson
Surely the best left-back in non league. Defensively sound, good energy levels, and dangerous going forward with a terrific left foot. Once again his set-pieces will be critical, so many goals came from Nicho's sweet left foot last season. A regular last season, with 48 appearances to his name.

DC: Chris Todd
For me, the first name on the team sheet. Brave, strong and uncompromising, Toddy (wow, he doesnt sound so tough with a name like that..) leads by example, and chips in with the odd goal - 8 in total last season. Not bad for a centre-half. 44 appearances to his name last season.

DC: Steve Woods
Experienced, and a decent reader of the game, but his lack of pace seems him caught out all too often these days. Also likes to try the odd hollywood pass from his own half all too often, which inevitably ends up in the Popular Stand. His best days are behind him I feel, unless deployed in a back 5 where his weaknesses can be covered. Played 23 times last season before injury stopped his season early.

DC: Chris Robertson
Transfer listed, and I have no clue as to why. At 6'3 and with a fantastic leap behind him, has all the attributes to be a good centre-back, but constantly found himself played out of position at right-back last season, despite his lack of pace and mobility for that position. If played in his right position, would be a great asset in my opinion, but it isnt up to me. Played 25 times last season, mostly in the first half of the season.

DC: Mark Ellis
Young, raw...but the talent is there. Saw glimpses of it last season with some assured displays, despite his lack of experience. Still has a lot to learn however, in terms of positional sense and concentration for the full 90 minutes. The fact he's a former Grecian matters not - Ellis is a top prospect for the future. Played 23 times on loan from Bolton last season, and impressed enough to be signed permanently.

DC/MC: Chris Hargreaves
No, I havent got this wrong, he really is a centre-back now..according to Bucks anyway. Is strong in the tackle and good in the air, but it's his distribution which pleases Bucks the most, with his left foot able to pass the ball out of defence. All well and good, but he's never really played in defence. A big gamble for me. Played 40 times last season in midfield, incredible for a 36 year old, and scooped both player of the year awards.

DR: Lee Mansell
As hardworking as they come. Primarilly a midfield player, but Manse will play anywhere and give his all. Made the right-back spot his own at the end of last season with some solid performances, showing a willingness to get forward but also staying disiplined with regards to his defensive duties. After playing 36 times last season in a variety of positions, was wanted by some FL clubs, but signed a new deal here.

Relatively well covered here, but the lack of pace at the back concerns me. We like to play a high line and impose ourselves on teams, and as a result we tend to get caught out with the ball over the top. Also a lack of cover on the right hand side, with not an out and out right-back in sight. There is some genuine quality on the left side of defence though, with Nicho and Hodges two great options for that spot. And the less said about the Hargreaves experiment, the better..

Midfielders:

ML: Mustafa Carayol
Pacy, an eye for goal. and full of tricks, Carayol is a great prospect. Paul Ince took him to Macclesfield and the Dongs, so there's clearly something about him. Has had a very impressive pre-season, and will be pushing for the starting berth on the left hand side. Has Chris Zebroski's 30 goal a season shoes to fill though, so no pressure on the lad. Had a short loan spell at Crawley last year, with 2 goals in 13 games.

ML/MR: Wayne Carlisle
Well travelled versatile winger who is comfortable across the midfield. A clever player who is comfortable on the ball, and scores the odd goal. Hopefully his injury problems are behind him - if so, we have a gem of a player for this level. Turned down a new 1 year contract at Exeter to sign a 2 year deal here, after 34 appearances and 4 goals last season for the Grecians.

ML/MC/DL: Lee Hodges
Versatile player with lots of experience in the higher higher leagues. At 35, his knowhow and experience will be vital to our younger players. A true unsung hero who can always be relied upon. Played 27 times at Championship level last season for Plymouth.

MC/DC: Michael Brough
Versatile player who was FGR's captain last season, mostly playing in defence, but is equally comfortable in midfield. A cult hero at the New Lane, Brough is tenacious in the tackle and fully committed to the cause. A mainstay of Rovers' team last season with 31 appearances.

MC/MR/FC: Tyrone Thompson
Arguably the most impressive new signing of the summer, if pre-season is anything to go by. An athletic player, with lots of stamina and pace, but is also productive with the ball. Very much an all action midfield player who likes to get from box to box, Tyrone made 42 appearances at Crawley last season.

MC: Nicky Wroe
Comfortable on the ball, likes to get forward, scores goals from midfield...where was he last season? With a change in style promised, Wroe could flourish if given the license to get forward. Has a habit of going missing in the tougher games, however. Scored 10 in 27 starts for York last season, and was signed for (rumoured) £17.5k.

MC: Steve Adams
The forgotten man. An intelligent midfielder who likes to drop deep and spread the play, but there are doubts over his fitness, and if he can cope with the physical side of the BSP. In my mind, he's a class player, but people think just because he doesnt run around like a headless chicken, he's not trying. It's called positional sense. Signed in January, and made 13 appearances. May have a big part to play this season.

MR/ML: Danny Stevens
A true fans favourite. In terms of skill and technique, he's light years ahead of the rest of the squad, but his lack of height (5'1) and physical presense lets him down. The ultimate impact sub, who with 20 minutes left scares the life out of defenders with his pace and trickery. Made 28 appearances last season, and scored 4 goals.

Honestly, it's like a completely different midfield from last term. As I mentioned, a more expansive style of play has indeed been promised, with more emphasis on keeping the ball on the floor, and creating chances. And the players signed all compliment that. We're certainly stronger than last season in this department, with many of our back-ups able to walk into most other XI's at this level. Keeping them all happy may be a problem - but a good problem to have. I just hope we dont sacrifice too much substance for style.

Attackers:

FC: Tim Sills
A good old fashioned centre-forward. Good in the air, holds it up well, and can finish. It's just a lack of pace that's the problem, hence his failures in the FL. At this level he is dangerous however, 20 goals in 45 appearances last season proves that fact.

FC: Matt Green
Lighting quick with great off the ball movement..but will his knee hold up? Oxford fans dont seem to think so, despite trying to sign the apparant crock themselves. Sour grapes anyone? But if kept fit, his 10 goals in 16 starts last season for Oxford would indicate we have a hell of a player on our hands, though he's yet to score in pre-season.

FC: Roscoe D'Sane
Pfft. I have no idea why he was kept on. Shown nothing to me last season, none of this electric pace or deadly finishing I heard about. In fairness to him, struggled for fitness a bit, so has a fresh start now..maybe to rekindle the old Shots partnership with Sills? The jury is still out for me. Scored 3 goals in 14 starts last season, joining from Accrington Stanley.

FC: Elliot Benyon
The best natural finisher we have at the club. Unfortunately, a lack of physical presense lets him down, as the big burly centre-halfs tend to dominate him. In pre-season he seems to be working very hard indeed, showing some new found strength, and is scoring a few goals. A point to prove perhaps? Scored 5 in 22 appearances last season, mostly as sub.

The loss of Super Lee will certainly hurt us, but the addition of Green looks a good one on paper. The emergence of Benyon from the cold is also pleasing, he's really hit the ground running in pre-season. Overall there's more than enough goals here in my opinion, with lots of different options.

Best XI (in my opinion)
---------------------------------Poke---------------------------------
Mansell----------------Todd-----------Ellis----------------------Nicho
Carlisle----------------Thompson-----Wroe----------------------Carayol
--------------------------Sills----------Green--------------------------

Final verdict? Promotion. Nothing less will do this season, and I have every confidence that we will achieve that aim. A good start is vital - we cant afford to be suffering from any kind of hangover, we really need to hit the ground running. We've strengthened where we needed to, and the squad has so much more depth now - I'd even go as far to say we have the strongest squad in the league. There are some concerns, mainly in the defensive area, but going forward we look a real force.

Champions.

Victims of poor selection?

Ah yes, the frustration of following England is back. After a first test which promised so much, all of England's failings have returned once more.

So what went wrong?

First of all, Darren Pattinson. No-one knows who picked him, and no-one seems to know why he was picked. The 29 year old Australian born seamer was seemingly plucked from obscurity to take the injured Ryan Sidebottom's place in the second test at Leeds, and he gave a solid performance. But why were players such as Simon Jones and Matthew Hoggard overlooked? They are in fine form for their counties, and have more experience and pedigree than Pattinson.

Personally I would plump for Simon Jones in the next test. His bowling average is fantastic at present, and more crucially, he has stayed fit. His inclusion would give the bowling attack more pace and penetration, something that is desperately needed.

Then there was the inclusion of Andrew Flintoff.

Flintoff is a fine player, there is no doubt about that, but his return provided England with a dilemma. The decision to go with five bowlers to accomodate Flintoff was a poor one in my opinion, no less so because Tim Ambrose was promoted to bat at six, and was clearly uncomfortable in doing so. If the wicket keeper is to be considered as the sixth batter, then Ambrose is not the answer. His batting just isnt good enough for that role. Matt Prior has proved himself to be more than adequate with the bat recently, and is tidy with the gloves. He could be worth considering. Either way, the balance of the team just wasnt right here, and questions have to be answered for the upcoming Third Test.

Should England stick with five bowlers or revert to the policy that served them well at Lord's? Do England stay consistent with their selection, or make further changes?

More questions than answers? Sounds like England to me.

Another busy summer for Chelsea..

Too predictable and pragmatic last season, Chelsea are on the look out to bring some much needed flair to Stamford Bridge. You see, Abramovic wants to be entertained by his expensive toy, and wants attacking football. But not only that, he wants some trophies for his investment. With Portugese playmaker Deco and attacking full-back Boswinga already on board, who's next on Chelsea's list?

First of all there's Robinho, the Real Madrid winger who Scolari believes will provide the flair that Chelsea so desperately need. A left winger by trade, Robinho would surely make that position his own, with his only competition coming from the likes of..Florent Malouda. Furthermore, Scolari and Robinho know each other well through their Brazil days, and with Cristiano Ronaldo possibly on his way to the Bernabeu to replace the Brazilian, this one could well happen. Available at around £37 million, Robinho could be gracing the Premiership very soon in my opinion.

Then there's Kaka, the AC Milan playmaker who apparantly 'belongs to Jesus'. Does he not know third party ownership is illegal in the Premiership? But in all seriousness, this one is a bit less likely for me. With Ballack, Deco, and possibly Lampard as competition for the central midfield berth, and Kaka reportedly happy at Milan, it seems this one is all a bit of hot air. Kenyon has even said so, saying the club are more likely to pursue their interest in the aforementioned Robinho.

But its not all good news for Chelsea fans. With players coming in, there's also rumblings of big players leaving the club.

Frank Lampard could be on his way, possibly to be reuinted with old boss Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan. Lampard reportedly wants a 5 year deal on excess of £130,000 a week, despite being the wrong side of 30, which I find obsurd. Look at Ryan Giggs, who in Lampard's position, was only offered a two year deal. He now finds himself as the club's record appearance holder, with further medals for his collection, and a new 2 year contract to boot. A big part of Chelsea's recent success, the loss of Lampard would no doubt be a huge blow for Chelsea, but they need to stand firm on this one.

Then there's everyone's favourite striker, Didier Drogba. Left behind on the club's pre-season tour due to injury, is Drogba also on his way? Linked with a move to AC Milan, who quite frankly cant afford anyone right now, I cant see this one happening. There's no obvious replacement in the pipeline for the Ivorian striker, so we'll have to contend with him for a little while yet I think. Oh joy.

All of this promises a busy summer for Chelsea, who cant afford another trophyless season, surely? All eyes are on you, Big Phil..