Liverpool Loving Lovren

The emphasis on Liverpool’s transfer dealings since the sale of Luis Suarez has mostly been on attacking players.  Players such as Markovic, Lambert, Lallana, and Origi have been purchased by the Reds, but arguably the most important signing of the summer has been Dejan Lovren from Southampton.  

Aside from Raheem Sterling, Lovren was Liverpools best player today.  The Serb was active on both sides of the ball, turning possession into chances with his confident long-range passing, while commanding the defensive third with his leadership and tenacity.  

Liverpool’s opening weekend triumph was largely unconvincing, with the visiting Saints dominating a respectable amount of play at Anfield.  Southampton had several chances to lead and level in the second half, but had Lovren not been on the field for Liverpool, the result would have been different.  

The 20 million pound signing from Southampton made quite the impression on fans and critics alike in his premier league debut for his new club, immediately taking up a leadership role that was left vacant by the now-retired Jamie Carragher.  He was constantly putting himself in positions to make key interceptions and tackles, while acting as a competent leader alongside Martin Skrtel.  

Last season, Liverpool lacked serious leadership in the back line.  Kolo Toure, the most experienced of the lot, didn’t see the field very often, and made the odd regrettable gaffe from time to time.  Mamadou Sakho is still adapting to the speed and relentlessness of the league, while Daniel Agger has since been pushed into an almost exclusively reserved role.  

Skrtel is an excellent defender, but he lacks the leadership and tactical discipline to lead the Liverpool defense.  He has a knack for scoring huge goals, most notably notching a double against Arsenal in a rout of the North Londoners last season.  However, Skrtels emotional approach hurt Liverpool in the long run last year.  The Reds saw too many late goals conceded, clearly lacking a dominative presence on the field.   

The draw with Crystal Palace late in the season was particularly painful for Liverpool fans, but Lovren brings a new dimension to the defense at Anfield.  If anything, Brendan Rodgers needed defensive solidity.  I expect to see Emre Can start alongside Steven Gerrard sooner rather than later, but Dejan Lovren looks like he is there to stay in the starting lineup. 

Youthful Impressions

James Ward-Prowse

Ward-Prowse was as good as advertised in the season-opener against Liverpool at the heart of Southampton’s midfield.  The 19-year-old Englishman imposed himself on the defensive midfield pairing of Gerrard and Lucas all afternoon, and delivered cutting-edge free kicks time and time again for the Saints.  He was full of energy and looks poised to take up the attacking mantle Adam Lallana left in the South.  Ward-Prowse looked extremely comfortable in front of Victor Wanyama and Morgan Schneiderlin, the former having a similarly impressive day.  

Ki Sung-Yueng

The South Korean midfielder showed everyone why Gary Monk needs to keep him around for the season.  Typical of his countryman Park Ji-Sung, Ki put in an energizing shift in the midfield, but also scored the first goal of the premier league season.  The goal he scored gives Swansea more promise for the season, as it’s usually a given that the 24 year old will give the necessary effort.  Ki was vital to the three points for Swansea who will be keen to further integrate the smooth-moving South Korean.  

Eric Dier

Dier’s journey is a very unique one, as the young Englishman started at the Sporting Lisbon youth academy at age nine.  Eleven years later, Dier made his premier league debut for Tottenham at right back, and scored the games only goal in extra time.  It was a fairytale ending to the day for the youngster, whose dream of playing in the premier league has finally been realized.  

Saido Berahino

Another talented young Englishman, Berhahino was the star of the show for West Brom against the hosts Sunderland.  He stepped up and buried a penalty for West Brom’s first, and scored a phenomenal volley for the second.  Berahino, 21, is an unsung English player who could feature for the Three Lions one day.  He is tied to the club until 2017, having just signed a new contract at the Hawthorns in December.  

Calum Chambers

Man of the match for me, Chambers proved me wrong after my comments on him earlier in the week.  I still think Arsenal need another center back, as Chambers would be more suited as a fourth center back while featuring in the defensive midfield more often.  However, the 19-year-old held his own in defense, but more impressively played the ball cooly and efficiently when stepping up into the midfield.  One wouldn’t have thought they were watching a teenager on Saturday, as his star could yet rise higher in the immediate future.  

Messi's Relationship With England

It’s no secret that Lionel Messi is good, really, really good.  His stardom is what embodies Barcelona, and it’s no secret that his word bears some weight around the Nou Camp.  There is a notion that Barcelona is a place where attacking midfielders and forwards alike have a chance to succeed and play in a beautiful system which produces brilliant football.  

This, I would argue, is false.  In the summer transfer window, the premier league has seen Luis Suarez head to the Nou Camp, with Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez coming in the opposite direction.  For Suarez, a change of scenery and culture will probably help him, but when it comes to football he may be in for a bit of a surprise.  

Since joining Manchester City from Barcelona, Yaya Toure has kicked it into another gear, showing a more diverse and free all-around game at the Etihad.  At Barcelona, Toure was shackled by the constraints of the Barca way, but in the premier league is able to impose himself on the fast-moving and physical game that suits him the best.  

Players to join the Catalan club from the premier league don’t always find their way in Spain either.  Javier Mascherano has turned into a terrific center back, but his identity as a defensive midfielder shouldn’t be thrown under the table as he proved in Brazil for Argentina.  Alex Song is another example, for he has rarely started and is often played out of position at center back too.  

Cesc Fabregas was given the ultimate freedom at Arsenal to roam the pitch from box to box and create chances.  At Barcelona, due to the presence of Xavi, Sergio Busquets, and Andres Iniesta, Fabregas was too often played as a winger or false nine in the absence of Messi.  

Fabregas was still a good player for the Catalans, but his return to the premier league should be an exciting one for the creative midfielder.  At Chelsea, Fabregas will surely feature more centrally alongside Nemanja Matic or Ramires.  His positional dilemmas he experienced at Barcelona should be a thing of the past, because Jose Mourinho will put him on the field where he is the most dangerous.  

After just one premier league game under his belt, the praises are already being laid upon Alexis, who looks freed from his sidekick role to Messi in Barcelona.  The Chilean showed in the World Cup he can be devastating when given positional freedom, and has made a good impression on the Arsenal fans so far with his tricks, marauding runs, and creative awareness.  

The balance of power in La Liga is very different from that of the premier league, and it’s a testament to Barcelona's commitment to their star player that so many top-class players are cast into his shadow.  Luis Suarez was in a perfect situation at Liverpool; he was a rockstar, and now at Barcelona he arrives highly coveted but with a black cloud of shame over his head.  

With Messi already the incumbent rockstar with his young sidekick Neymar at his side, Suarez is in danger of being shackled at Barcelona, just as Alexis, Fabregas, and Yaya Toure have been.  Ultimately, the premier league is probably a better (and probably safer) place without the Uruguayan, but from a football point of view it’s a shame to see players limited so much when they move to the Catalan giants.  

Weekend One Talking Points

United Need Reinforcements

Louis Van Gaal got off to a losing start in his premier league debut at Old Trafford, losing 2-1 to Gary Monk's impressive Swansea City in the seasons opening fixture.  It’s clear Manchester United need help at several positions, most importantly center back.  Tyler Blackett isn’t ready to feature regularly, and without proper wing backs in the lineup United looked out of their depth.  

The system Van Gaal wants to implement gives both sides of the pitch to just one player; no fullback to cover for the winger and vice versa.  Van Gaal would be wise to move for a competent wingback who is familiar with the tactical set up, perhaps Daley Blind or Marcos Rojo.  At this point, however, any signing (as long as it’s not in the mould of the Fellaini deal) would lift the spirits at Old Trafford.

It Ain’t So Bad

The notion that Crystal Palace were in for a long afternoon Saturday was dismissed by the Golden Eagles, who put in a tireless shift at the Emirates.  Had it not been for a last-gasp winner from Aaron Ramsey, Keith Millen would have walked across London with a valuable point, but also a morale-boosting performance under his belt.  Even so, Palace fans and players alike should be proud of the way their team competed in the wake of Tony Pulis’ departure, as they soaked up Arsenal pressure so well all day.  

To the north, Southampton went into its opening fixture with the weight of losing so many key players on their shoulders in the transfer window.  Ronald Koemen’s men showed exceptional resolve today, at times outplaying Liverpool on their own ground.  Like Palace, Southampton walked away from their first fixture with no points to show for, but the spirit they showed is definitely a step in the right direction.  

Waiting for Wilshere

The tactical change to a 4-3-3 would ideally help Jack Wilshere, who took up a slightly deeper role than Aaron Ramsey but more advanced than Mikel Arteta.  However, as Lee Dixon pointed out, Wilshere was lazy with some of his touches, drawing in defenders and the odd tackle; it's no wondeer he's on the training table so much.  It’s just one game, but after so many years of waiting for some consistency out of the midfielder, patience could be running thin at the Emirates.  

Wilshere looked exceptional in the Emirates Cup and the Community Shield, but his role in the squad will be under pressure from the return of Mesut Ozil and the constant form of Aaron Ramsey.  There are 37 games to go, but how long will Arsenal wait to see the form Wilshere showed against Barcelona in the Champions League in 2011?

New SAS at Anfield?

If Liverpool are going to contend for the title again, the goals must come from elsewhere in the absence of Luis Suarez.  Today, Raheem Sterling scored the opener and created Daniel Sturridge’s winner, which gives Reds fans hope for life after Luis.  I was particularly impressed with Sterling, who was a constant thorn in side of the Southampton defense, playing higher up the pitch without the Uruguayan on the pitch.  His pace is electrifying, and it's hard to believe he's still just 19.  

Sterlings run from midfield was a thing of beauty in the buildup to the first goal, and it helped that Jordan Henderson delivered an inch-perfect left-footed ball.  What Liverpool were missing today though was the presence of Suarez when pressing for the ball.  At times, Suarez would bring Anfield to life with his tireless effort without the ball, something I didn’t see enough of today from the Reds, particularly Sturridge.  This will surely be a talking point for Brendan Rodgers in training this week.  

Vlaar the Star

Who predicted the rise of Ron Vlaars star this summer?  No one, unless you are the most optimistic of Aston Villa or Dutch fans.  For the second season in a row, Aston Villa opened the season with a shock upset on the road, this time around beating Stoke City 1-0 at the Brittania Stadium.  Vlaar was the rock of Villas clean sheet and proved to everyone watching that the World Cup was no fluke.  

Vlaar was one of the best defenders in Brazil for me, and today only further solidified his growing reputation in England.  Ronald Koeman is reportedly a huge admirer of his countryman, with others surely to be in tow searching for the services of the big Dutchman.  Vlaar is 29, but his rock hard style of play and expert positioning make him a valuable long-term asset to any club.  

Weekend One Preview

Manchester United vs Swansea

Louis Van Gaals men host Swansea in the first match of the 2014/2015 premier league season.  This is one that could be wide open, as United have several defensive players missing with injury.  Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans, and possibly Rafael will not feature.  This doesn’t bode well for a side with an already thin defense, and it surprises me Van Gaal hasn’t dipped into the transfer market for a defender.  

With a healthy Wilfried Bony and Nathan Dyer returning from injury, it could be a rough home start for Van Gaal.  Swansea can play superb football at times, something United know all too well from last season.  However, the mystique of Old Trafford will do Van Gaal justice in his opener.  I see this one as an open contest, ending 3-2 in favor of the Red Devils.  

Leicester City vs Everton

The season hasn’t even started yet and people are already writing off Leicester city as a relegation team.  This may be the case, but lets at least give them a chance before we declare them a Championship side once again.  Jamie Vardy, last seasons top scorer is in doubt, while Matthew Upson will not appear due to an ankle injury.  Everton, meanwhile, are on the rise.  

The permanent capture of Lukaku makes for an exciting second season for Robert Martinez on Merseyside. Seamus Coleman is doubtful, as are Kevin Mirallas and the previously mentioned Lukaku, but other than that Martinez has a full squad and plenty to choose from in selection.  The Everton defense will put in a shift tomorrow and earn a clean sheet in a 1-0 away win to begin the season.  

QPR vs Hull City

Premier league football returns to Loftus Road on Saturday as Hull City visit London to kick off the season against Queens Park Rangers.  QPR have likely learned from their last stint in the premier league that big name signings aren’t everything, as they look primed for a longer stay this time around.  Steven Caulker and Loic Remy join the squad, along with Chilean Mauricio Isla.  

Former Manchester United captain Steve Bruce brings a reinforced squad from last season into the opening weekend.  Jake Livermore has joined permanently from Spurs, Robert Snodgrass joins from Norwich, and Tom Ince will likely make his premier league debut.  This should be an evenly-matched contest, but I see Hull scraping by with three points away from home 2-1.  

Stoke City vs Aston Villa

Aston Villa arrive at the Brittania Stadium with a banged up squad; Joe Cole, World Cup star Ron Vlaar (who thought we’d ever be saying that), and Charles N’Zogbia doubtful, with Christian Benteke sidelined as well.  Vlaar will probably play given his frame as a brick outhouse, but the absence of Benteke will hurt Villa on the road.  

Mark Hughes conducted a fair amount of business in reinforcing his squad this summer, bringing in Bojan Krkic from Barcelona, Steve Sidwell, Mame Biram Diouf, and Phil Bardsley.  The already defensively stout Potters add another attacking dimension with Krkic, who is looking to rejuvenate his career at Stoke.  A Ryan Shawcross red card wouldn’t surprise me in this one, but Stoke win it 2-1 at home.  

West Brom vs Sunderland

West Brom were a stingy team to play against last season and proved to be a miniature nightmare for the top clubs.  Yusuf Mulumbu is a tank in the midfield, while Claudio Yacob and Stephane Sessegnon always pose a threat in the midfield for Albion.  Joleon Lescott is out with a knee injury, so West Brom could be a little thin at the back.  

Vito Mannone will look to retain the #1 jersey following an outstanding year under Gus Poyet.  Jozy Altidore will be the main attraction for Americans watching in the states, but the real excitement in this game is the debut of Jack Rodwell for Sunderland.  Poyet made Rodwell the club’s record signing this summer, while there’s still hope for this once sought-after talent to make a player out of himself.  Rodwell will be man of the match and Sunderland will bag three points away from home 2-1.  

West Ham vs Tottenham

Can Mauricio Pochettino shock the league and bring this club back from the dead and into the Champions League hunt?  We’ll see, but with a year under the belts of last summers transfer influx, Spurs could be on the rise.  Christian Erikson continues to impress, but the main man for Tottenham this year could easily be Erik Lamela.  Lamela cost a fortune and it would be a shame if he didn’t pan out for the North Londoners.  

Enner Valencia and Andy Carroll will both miss this one, as will Ravel Morrison and the on-loan Carl Jenkinson.  Sam Allardyce still has captain Kevin Nolan, his very own teachers pet, to lead the Hammers who will be hoping to be blowing bubbles all day long at Upton Park, which is always a tough venue to visit.  Keeping with the theme of excitement, this game will end 2-2.  

Arsenal vs Crystal Palace

Surely Crystal Palace’s fortunes couldn’t take a turn for the worst could it?  The resignation of Tony Pulis shellshocked the Eagles this week, and it doesn’t get any easier as they face a strong Arsenal squad at home.  Coming off an impressive display in group B for Australia, Mile Jedinak will be Palace’s main man in the middle of the park, a lot of the defensive organizing and responsibility on his shoulders.  

Alexis looks to make his competitive Arsenal debut, while Aaron Ramsey just seems to keep getting better after his terrific term last year.  Olivier Giroud looks fresh after several months rest, and there’s really no telling how Arsene Wenger will set up his side on Saturday.  Even without Mesut Ozil, Per Mertesacker, Lukas Podolski, and Theo Walcott, this should be a relatively easy game for Arsenal against a club who has just lost its excellent manager.  2-0 to Arsenal.  

Liverpool v Southampton

Undoubtedly the most anticipated game of the opening weekend, Southampton travel north to face Liverpool at Anfield.  Ronald Koeman has dealt with the departures of several star players, but Southampton are by no means a bad team.  James Ward-Prowse should emerge as another star this season, and it looks like Morgan Schneiderlin could feature as well, a huge morale booster for the Saints. 

Adam Lallana will regrettably miss this fixture, the former Saints captain sidelined for six weeks with a knee ailment.  Jon Flanagan and new boy Lazar Markovic will be unavailable for the Reds, but new signings Emre Can and Dejan Lovren should see the field at some point.  Even with Schneiderlin and Victor Wanyama in the middle of the pitch, I still expect Liverpool to unleash some attacking firepower in a 4-1 victory.  

Manchester City vs Newcastle United 

New boy Eliaquim Mangala is out for City, as is Alvaro Negredo.  Apart from that however, City enter the season very healthy.  Sergio Aguero is still hampered by a groin injury but could still start.  David Silva and Yaya Toure will spearhead the Blues’ attack from the midfield, and every player who missed the Community Shield against Arsenal will be up for selection. 

Newcastle will be without Cheick Tiote, whose midfield enforcing anitcs will be missed against a team like City.  Darryl Janmaat will make his Newcastle debut at right back, summer signing Jack Colback could also feature, but new boy Siem de Jong will miss the opening game with a foot injury.  Manchester City struggled to get it done on the road, and off the heels of an unconvincing loss at the hands of Arsenal, I see Newcastle scraping by with a point at home in this one.  1-1.  

Burnley vs Chelsea

On the heels of their successful promotion, Burnley open the season hosting Chelsea.  Not the most ideal fixture to start the premier league season, but I honestly know the least about this Burnley side of any team this season.  Danny Ings, the Championship’s top scorer last season, is the player to watch for them.  Expect them to pack it in against the top-class Blues.  

Chelsea are the consensus favorites to win the league this year with the additions of Cesc Fabregas, Diego Costa, Felipe Luis, and the return of Thibault Courtois from loan.  This could be the strongest Chelsea side ever, with world class depth at every position and a manager accustomed to winning trophies.  Chelsea will make a statement in this opener, winning 3-0 on the road.  

Pre-Season Player of the Year Candidates

With just two days to go until the start of the 2014/2015 Barclays Premier League season, top flight squads are itching to get back into the thick of it.  The season kicks off Saturday morning, and I, for one will be up like it's Christmas morning to meander over to the pub for the Arsenal match.  The excitement generated by the World Cup only makes this season more anticipated.  Here, I'll look at some possible candidates for player of the year.

Philippe Coutinho

A player not selected by his native country of Brazil to play in the World Cup, Coutinho has shown that the summer months' rest have given him adequate rest in order to sustain last seasons immaculate form.  Coutinho Liverpool's star and midfield conductor in preseason and looks primed to further raise his star status this year.

In hindsight, Coutinho probably could have given Brazil an extra creative force in Brazil, especially off the bench.  However, no one at Liverpool will rue his omission because he only looks better since rejoining Anfield with his teammates.  With Luis Suarez out of the picture and several players set to feature who are inexperienced in the league, Coutinho could very well be Liverpool's main man this year.

If Coutinho is given the freedom by Brendan Rodgers to roam the pitch and seek out opportunities to create chances for his teammates (which he probably will), expect Coutinho to flash even more brilliance this year.  Together, Coutinho, Raheem Sterling, and Daniel Sturridge could impose a three-headed monster of speed, creativity, and most of all goal production.  For me, Coutinho is the key to this new-look attack.

Aaron Ramsey

Similar to Coutinho, Ramsey enjoyed several weeks of rest this summer as opposed to many of his Arsenal teammates, and like Coutinho has had a fruitful preseason.  Ramsey was a breakout player for Arsenal last term, being named the club's player of the season with just 23 premier league appearances to his name and a lengthy injury layoff midway through the season.

Ramsey, still just 23, has been the motor behind Arsenal's good form in the past year, but also brings ever-rising levels of confidence to the pitch.  It seems that aside from Mesut Ozil and Alexis, Ramsey is probably the only Arsenal midfielder guaranteed of a starting role when fit.  The amount of depth Arsenal have in the midfield only makes this more impressive.

It was only fitting that Ramsey returned from injury in time to play 120 minutes and score the game-winner in the FA Cup final last season.  The Welshman is showing no signs of slowing down his steady rise, and will look to lead Arsenal to more trophies in the near future.  The confidence he shows on the ball, the tenacity when tracking back, and his increasing leadership role put Ramsey on this list.

Wayne Rooney

The times are definitely changing at Old Trafford, the most recent change being Wayne Rooney's recent appointment as new club captain.  Rooney certainly has the talent to lead the Manchester United line and looks rejuvenated under new manager Louis Van Gaal.  Van Gaal's relationship with Rooney was under scrutiny before the Dutchman even reported for duty, but it appears there is no rift between the two.

I would argue Wayne Rooney wasn't as bad as people may have suggested in the World Cup.  Sure, he did hit arguably the worst corner kick in history and missed several chances that would have surely changed the Three Lions' fate, but his work ethic remains as well as his hunger for the ball.  He did get on the score sheet, and in my opinion was put under too much pressure by Roy Hodgson to be the link between the midfield and attackers.

Position-wise, Rooney's career arc has steadily led him to more of a midfield role.  With Van Gaal in charge, Rooney will be granted the same roaming freedom that Arjen Robben was given in Brazil, something the Englishman wasn't granted very much under Moyes.  Mentally, having a new manager could be an enormous lift for Rooney, while the injection of new blood can sometimes extend the careers of star players.  With his new leadership role, expect Rooney to flourish under his new manager.

Sergio Aguero

Out of all the attacking juggernauts Manchester City have in their ranks, Sergio Aguero is the most important and crucial to success.  During Aguero's injury absences in 2013/2014, Manchester City struggled in the final third.  Aguero is so unique as a center forward, and is nicely complemented by either Dzeko, Negredo, or Jovetic.

Aguero has formed one of the more lethal partnerships with midfield maestro David Silva, at times even appearing telepathic.  Aguero will play more minutes than any other striker, and on a team that scores as much as City do, his goal output could be tremendous this upcoming term.  Aguero has been the best striker in the league over his first three years in England and could yet see even more improvements on his all-around game.

Aguero didn't have an excellent World Cup, as he was not fully fit.  However, he did see his Argentina team into the finals alongside pal Lionel Messi.  That, along with being defending league champions should be a lift for the Argentine.  Like Ramsey, when he is fit he changes not only the result but the way the entire squad plays.  Aguero's speed, striking instincts, and high off-the-ball IQ put him in contention for pre-season player of the year.



Diego Costa

The only new boy to make this list, Costa is included because of his pure striker instincts and ability to get the ball in the back of the net.  In Brazil, Costa was very disappointing, but you try and go do something when an entire nation (let alone one of the largest in the world) is sending you death threats and harassing you at every touch of the ball.

Under Mourinho, Costa will feature heavily and joins a club that was in desperate need of a world-class center forward last year.  They've got one in Costa, who led La Liga in scoring last season and also led Atletico Madrid to the Champions League final.  Unfortunately for Costa, an early injury ended his day early in Lisbon, and was likely not 100% at the World Cup.

The key with Costa will be his adaptation to the physical style of the league.  If he fails to do so, it could be a long and difficult season for him.  However, if Costa shows early on he can hang with the big and physical defenders that are a mainstay in the league, there's no reason he can't equal his goal output from last season.  Costa is still just 25, and could even yet improve his already outstanding reputation in England.

Marcos Rojo a Perfect Fit For United

There has been a lot of talk as to who Louis Van Gaal will look to sign in the closing weeks of the transfer window.  Yesterday, Manchester United were linked with Angel Di Maria, Daley Blind, and Marcos Rojo.  All three players were top class for their respective countries in Brazil this summer, and all three would likely boost the Red Devils’ expectations for this coming season.  

Louis Van Gaal needs to make it his priority to sign Marcos Rojo first and foremost, whether or not the rumors are true about his suggested move to Old Trafford.  A lot has been said about the defensive midfield and left back positions.  Luke Shaw is looking more than capable of being an exceptional full-time replacement for Patrice Evra and could more than shoulder the load at the position while receiving more than capable from the versatile Rojo.   

The rumors surrounding Di Maria are intriguing for Red Devil fans as well, but given that even PSG were out priced on a deal for the Argentine, I doubt Manchester United would splash that kind of cash on him (most importantly, he’s not worth that kind of money).  Van Gaal could look elsewhere for a wingback while Di Maria appears an unlikely option.  

There are even more rumors surrounding United regarding the pivot midfielder role.  Fans were calling for the likes of William Carvalho and previously Toni Kroos not too long ago, but they could very well be fine at the position.  In the two central midfield positions, Van Gaal currently has Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick, the impressive Ander Herrera, and possibly Marouane Fellaini, depending on whether the rumors are true about him being forced out of Manchester.  

Given Van Gaal adds at least one center back, Phil Jones could be available in that position too.  Daley Blind is a superb player and is very familiar with the manager, but he’s not the right player United need in this situation.  Yes, he fills two roles very well, and Van Gaal very well could buy him, but Ajax are holding out for 20 million pounds.  Even though Blind has expressed interest in playing for United, that doesn’t mean right away, and definitely doesn’t mean Ajax will let him go easily.  

Ander Herrera looks like a box-to-box star in the making, while Fletcher looks revitalized in the new tactical formation.  Carrick will likely feature heavily, and Fellaini looks much more determined and fit under his new manager.  The holding midfield role shouldn’t be the highest on the transfer list for United either.  The gaping priority at Old Trafford should be signing an additional center back.  

In the three back system, United currently field Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, and Jonny Evans as their first choice defenders.  It’s likely that Van Gaal will add two center backs to his squad before the window closes, but Marcos Rojo should be atop his transfer aspirations right now.  

Rojo is capable of playing both left back and center back.  Although he exclusively featured at left back for Argentina in the World Cup, Rojo is a seasoned center back, having been deployed there at Sporting Lisbon over the course of two solid seasons.  He certainly proved his defensive merit in Brazil, contributing to a rock-solid defense.  He was better than even Pablo Zabaleta, arguably the most well-rounded fullback on both ends of the field in the premier league.

There’s no doubt Van Gaal has had Rojo on his radar for quite some time, especially considering the defensive shift he put in against the Oranje in the semifinal.  Rojo would not only fit nicely in the left side of Van Gaal’s defense but would also provide cover for Shaw at left wingback when necessary, a position he has more than proved himself at.  

Furthermore, the combination of speed and discipline between defensive partnerships is proving to be a common occurrence these days.  Laurent Koscielny provides much cover in the form of speed for Per Mertesacker, while David Luiz previously played the same role alongside John Terry or Gary Cahill.  Van Gaal is a smart manager and probably already has a feel for how the league works.  Certain ideas work, and certain don’t.  Marcos Rojo would not only be a hugely talented addition, but he fits Van Gaals system very well and is suited to play a versatile role for the Red Devils in the league.  

Van Gaal Making United Forget the Moyes 'Era'

The world is slowly realizing that Louis Van Gaal is the perfect man for the Manchester United job.  The media reports issued following the hiring of the Dutchman were focused not on what he could do, but what he couldn’t do.  Critics were swift to point out when and where Van Gaal has failed in the past, and not on the prospect of success following such an abysmal season at Old Trafford.

At this point, I would consider myself one of Van Gaal’s biggest fans outside of Manchester United supporters.  It began at the World Cup, and essentially everything he has said and done since then in England has been calculated and quantified.  For me, one of his best quality is to never settle.  

In my opinion, had it been David Moyes answering the post-game questions today, he would have said something along the lines of ‘we’re ecstatic with the result.’  Not Van Gaal.  He knows exactly what he wants out of his players, and although winning games is never a bad thing, he still expects his players to play according to his tactical setup regardless.  

Today’s post-game comments typified Van Gaal.  He had some choice words for his squad, who didn’t play as well as they could have, and he was probably right. He did say his squad underperformed, but carefully hailed the players’ efforts and commitment to the preseason preparations.   He could have singled out Fellaini as the hero, but it’s not in Van Gaal’s nature to put his players on a pedestal.  

What he did express, however, was the sheer experience of managing Manchester United in the premier league in front of Manchester United’s loyal and steadfast support.  Winning over the clubs support will be key for Van Gaal, and he knows it, but this wasn’t an effort to appease the fans; this is just who he is.

Van Gaal is notorious for grabbing the spotlight instead of his players, focusing much of the attention his club receives toward himself.  Some would interpret this as selfish and egotistical, but it’s the same strategy legendary American ice hockey coach Herb Brooks used with his squad in the 1980 Olympics (yes, the movie is accurate).  This is a strategy that either can work or not work, because it takes a mercurial personality to bear the burden of accepting all responsibility in the media.  

Where Louis Van Gaal stares straight into the face of any reporter who questions him, David Moyes scratches his head and tries to play off tough questions by saying things like ‘the squad is working hard’ and ‘we played well despite the result.’  There is no nonsense with Van Gaal, and that’s what I love about him.

Too many times throughout the season were Manchester United fans subjected to Moyes’ excuses and claims that the squad was playing well regardless of their mid-table position.  There will be no such poetry with Van Gaal, who would rather fight a reporter hand to hand than see one of his players wrongfully disrespected by the media.  

The biggest news out of Manchester today was that Van Gaal had named Wayne Rooney captain.  I was afraid for United’s sake that he would immediately appoint Robin Van Persie, his preferred captain for the national team, instead of the Manchester United golden boy.  Choosing Rooney as captain will do wonders for the player himself, while choosing Van Persie would have only caused questions and scattered infuriation from fans.  

Having an English captain at an English club is always a boost for the supporters, who could seldom relate to the Serbian Nemanja Vidic prior to Rooneys appointment.  Rooney has now been at the club for over a decade and is undoubtedly the most popular United player in the world.  In Rooney, Van Gaal has a mix of someone who is a loyal servant to the club and someone who features regularly and also happens to be one of the best players.  It’s an ideal situation and Rooney will take the appointment to heart.

Seeing the clips of Van Gaal in Los Angeles personally coaching his players on the field in shooting mechanics and set-piece routines only reaffirmed his identity as a meticulous and dedicated manager.  However, the sight of him and Rooney hugging in training following a well-played corner kick sold me that this is the guy for the job.  Coaching is so ambiguous, in that there are so many methods.  King Louis’ methods are often questioned, but the Dutchman’s biggest strength is that he never questions himself.  

History Could Solve Arsenal's Defensive Issues

Times are exciting at the Emirates stadium.  In the last 12 months, the club has made three of its four biggest signings in history, while the rise of Aaron Ramsey has supplemented these additions.  New boys Mathieu Debuchy, Calum Chambers, Joel Campbell, and Alexis have all been impressive, but a large void still remains in the squad.  

Looking at the other top five premier league clubs, it’s easy to see why Arsenals title chances, and by the end of the season top four chances, usually hang by a thread.  Arsenal have the least amount of depth at center back than any other big club in the league with the exception of Manchester United currently.  

In Arsenal’s hay day with George Graham in the 1980’s and 90’s, the club used to keep far more center backs on the roster.  “Boring, boring Arsenal” was the catch phrase back then, as they had a habit of scraping out 1-0 wins in front of a sometimes disinterested crowd.  Graham is described by Tony Adams as a collector of center backs, one of the reasons Arsenal were competitive in the league, FA Cup, and Europe each season.  

The famous English back five including Adams, Steve Bould, Nigel Winterburn, Lee Dixon, and keeper David Seaman was a big reason for the success in North London.  However players like Martin Keown, Andy Linighan, and David O’Leary should be credited for always having the poise to step in and cover the void should Bould or Adams be injured, either short or long-term.  Graham didn’t just buy center backs, he bought center backs that fit his system, thus allowing them to seamlessly cycle in and out of the lineup.

It wasn’t until Arsene Wenger arrived that Arsenal changed it’s style of play to a more attack-minded philosophy, and started seeing more creative players at the club flourish like Marc Overmars, Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, and Robert Pires.  The change in emphasis is seeing the long-term consequences of this strategy, as Arsenal have a surplus of attacking midfielders but a serious lack of central defenders.  

Arsenal were outclassed and outmuscled in big games last year, some of which were played with Thomas Vermaelen deputizing for either Laurent Koscielny or Per Mertesacker.  The result was devastating for Arsenal, while the price they sold Vermaelen for probably has a few supporters chuckling to themselves.  Arsenal have options in the market, one of them being German Mats Hummels.

Hummels is definitely the most high-profile center back belong linked with the Gunners, but Arsenal must be careful in who they decide to add.  Vermaelen, a product of the Ajax academy and total football philosophy, had an affinity for stepping up early and leaving a hole in the back of the defense.  This is an effective quality to have but only in the correct system.  

Right now, Koscielny and Mertesacker complement each other very well; Mertesacker’s positioning is top class, while Koscielny makes up for the big German’s lack of speed with his own pace and aggression.  This conundrum of what kind of center back would be best for Arsenal is probably on Wenger’s mind all the time these days.  The best case scenario would be to re-create the defensive solidarity George Graham instilled in the club during his 10 year reign at Highbury and have backup defenders who can fill in easily and effortlessly from a tactical perspective.  

Moreno Adds Another Dimension, Mangala Finally Arrives

It's getting late in the transfer window, and some of the more drawn-out transfer sagas are finally coming to a close.  Here, we'll look at four more transfers in the premier league and look how each one changes the dynamic of his team in this upcoming season.  

Calum Chambers, Arsenal

At the start of the summer Calum Chambers was far from the most likely player to join Arsenal from Southampton.  Nathaniel Clyne was rumored to be a long-term replacement at left back, and Morgan Schneiderlin seemed like a perfect fit for the Gunners, but Arsene Wenger bought the versatile teenager instead.  

One could argue Chambers was bought well above market value, and he probably was overpaid for.  Then again, Chambers can provide cover in three positions and unless there are significant injuries shouldn’t be burdened with holding down a starting role.  Chambers is definitely one for the future, and has physicality to add to his already impressive game.  In these financially friendly days, Arsenal fans shouldn't lose any sleep over what they paid for this young man; he is an accomplished captain at the U-19 level for England, and has drawn rave reviews in his first three appearances for Arsenal.  

This season, I see Chambers mostly playing at right back and occasionally center back.  With Mikel Arteta set to be 33 in December, it seems Chambers could even be the heir apparent to the less physical holding midfield role Arteta plays.  In the long run, I see Chambers’ future in the defensive midfield, but in the mean time expect him to cover for Mathieu Debuchy and whichever three center backs Arsenal have after the transfer window closes.

Alberto Moreno, Liverpool

At 22, Moreno has already established himself as one of the better young left backs in the world alongside Luke Shaw, David Alaba, and Marcos Rojo.  Moreno was left off Spain’s final squad list for the World Cup, narrowly missing out to the more versatile Cesar Azpilicueta.

Moreno gives Liverpool one of the deepest sets of outside backs in the premier league, joining Jose Enrique, Glen Johnson, and the jack-of-all-trades Jon Flanagan.  With Enrique fresh off a knee injury, I expect Moreno to already be the first-choice left back at Anfield.  Moreno was second on Sevilla in interceptions, clearances, and tackles last season and also possesses the ability to make long runs up the left flank..  

Last season for Liverpool, left back was the one position that seemed to evade the club throughout the course of the year.  Flanagan was excellent in the second half, but his future is on the other side of the pitch.  Personally, I thought nothing of Aly Cissokho last season and feel Moreno is the second best addition behind Emre Can at Anfield this summer.  With Moreno in the squad, Liverpool fans should rest easy they shouldn't have as many headaches this season.  

Eliaquim Mangala, Manchester City

Finally, I can say Mangala is a Manchester City player…and not hear that he has signed a contract for the 50th time this window.  Mangala may spell the end of Matija Nastasic at the club, high praise for a player who didn’t see the field at the World Cup.  However, Nastasic’s form in the Community Shield warrants these claims, and Mangala could very well be that good.  

Mangala shouldn’t have any problem settling in at the United Nations of football that is Manchester City, as he joins countrymen Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna, and Samir Nasri (keep in mind Vincent Kompany’s first language is French, and Patrick Veiera is also heavily involved at the Etihad).  Furthermore, the presence of Fernando, a proclaimed mentor of Mangala at Porto, should help the youngster settle in.  

The one concern with this transfer is the ridiculous price it came with.  Mangala cost a reported 32 million pounds, but the total transfer fee including payments to third party ownership and Standard Leige have been reported upwards of 43 million pounds.  Considering he has three international caps, hardly any Champions League experience, and will likely start his career on the bench, it’s absurd that anyone would pay this much for him (Mesut Ozil cost Arsenal less, as did just about every other player in the league right now).  

Romelu Lukaku, Everton

I wrote about Lukaku in a previous post about Everton’s summer business, but the snippet I included on him doesn’t do the big Belgian justice.  This is a bit of business that makes total sense even though Lukaku probably isn't worth the 28 million pounds Everton paid for him..  The intent Everton are showing this summer is remarkable, and although it was always thought Lukaku would be retained by Everton eventually, the manner in which the deal was pushed through was surprising.  

I expected a long, drawn-out transfer saga in this case, but it was anything but.  The deal was done quickly, and it’s obvious Jose Mourinho was content to let the player go for such a price tag.  Lukaku now returns to Everton as the chosen one, the most expensive player by a mile in club history, and a hero on the blue half of Merseyside.  

If he can stay fit (seems like that’s the biggest IF in the world these days), Lukaku could become even more dangerous.  Lukaku’s season was marred with inconsistency and injury last year but I expect him to improve under Roberto Martinez, who saw the Belgian light up Goodison Park with several dominating performance at the tip of the Everton attack.  Between Lukaku and Ross Barkley, Everton have two of the brightest new stars on the planet.