Burnley vs Manchester United Preview | Team News, Stats & Key Men

On August 30th, Manchester United travel to the Turf Moor to take on Burnley.  Both teams have started their 2014/2015 campaigns poorly and will look to use this game as a spring board and get their seasons on track.

Manchester United have taken only one point from their first six and crashed out of the Capital One Cup 4-0 to MK Dons in one of the shocks of the early season.  Newly-promoted Burnley are yet to claim a point on their return to the Premier League – losing 3-1 to Chelsea and 1-0 to Swansea.  While Burnley may have expected to struggle, neither team can be happy with their start to the campaign.

Team News

Manchester United have been bit hard by the injury bug early on this season.  United have seven players on the treatment table with all of them likely to miss the match against Burnley.  The seven injured United players are: Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw, Ander Herrara, Jesse Linegard, Michael Carrick, Shinji Kagawa, and the big Belgian Marouane Fellaini.  Burnley are almost injury free with the only player missing being Welsh striker Sam Vokes.

Interesting Statistics

The last time these two teams met at Turf Moor, Burnley came out with a shock 1-0 victory. Prior to that though, Burnley had not beaten Manchester United since 1968.  These two teams have met 107 times over the course of their histories, but only three times in the Premier League era.  United hold the all time edge, wining 50 drawing 16 and Burnley losing 41.  Only 15% of the all time meetings between these two have ended in draws, so you can expect one team to come out with all three points.

Key Men

Burnley’s key man is English forward Danny Ings.  The former Bournemouth man won the Player of the Season for the Championship and will need to bring his shooting boots to the match on Saturday if the Bees are to have a chance against United.  The England U-21 striker bagged 26 goals in all competitions, including 21 goals in 40 league appearances in 2013-2014.  Ings has shown he can rip apart the Championship, but the young striker must show he has the quality to play with the big boys in the top level of the game.  The 22 year old has been touted as a future England international.  Scoring against Manchester United in the Premier League would go a long way to showing that he does have that top level quality in him.

Manchester United are in desperate need of a win.  Even with new record signing Angel Di Maria arriving earlier this week, Manchester United’s key figure will be their former record signing Juan Mata.  The former Chelsea star has had an up and down start to his United career.  He has gone on some good runs of form, and did pop up with the Reds’ lone goal against Sunderland, but he has not exactly set Manchester alight with his performances.  Louis Van Gaal’s team has world class strikers, but the midfield and defence are poor.  The midfield being poor has resulted in a lack of service for Rooney and Van Persie up top.  Mata has to provide the big two up top with quality service for Manchester United to get going.

Prediction

Predictions have been quite difficult when it comes to Manchester United over the past 12 months.  So many games they are expected to win they have not won.  Now with Louis Van Gaal in charge, people expected that to change, but I would have predicted a United win in all of their first three games (Swansea, Sunderland, and MK Dons) but they have won none of them.  I am expecting Manchester United to get their first win of the season, but the way they’ve been playing no result will genuinely surprise me.

Prediction: 2-1 Manchester United

Crystal Palace vs West Ham Preview & Prediction (23/Aug 22:00)

Probable Lineups

 

Team News

 Crystal Palace

• Jason Puncheon is suspended following his costly red card in the 2-1 defeat to Arsenal. Barry Bannan should take his place on the right-wing.
• Scott Dann faces a late fitness test ahead of the welcome of West Ham.
• Jerome Thomas, Adrian Mariappa and Jonathan Williams are also doubts for Palace.

West Ham

• James Collins is suspended after his red card in the 1-0 defeat to Tottenham last weekend.
• Sam Allardyce will be without injured trio Andy Carroll, Ravel Morrison and Matthew Jarvis, while Carl Jenkinson is a doubt.
• Guy Demel should start at right-back in place of Joey O'Brien, while James Tomkins is expected to start alongside Winston Reid at centre-back.

Prediction

• Crystal Palace performed admirably at the Emirates last weekend, despite Tony Pulis' resignation just 48 hours before the meeting with Arsenal. They will aim to put a poor start behind them with an impressive display in front of their own fans.
• West Ham were unfortunate not to secure a positive result on the opening day of the season, coming unstuck late on through an Eric Dier strike against Spurs. Allardyce will have been buoyed by the performances of his players and is expected to ask for much the same when they make the short trip across the capital.
• These are unsettling times for the Eagles, who may be without a permanent manager by the time this match rolls around, which could result in a low-scoring draw.

Manchester United vs Swansea Preview and Prediction (16/Aug ~ 19:45)

Probable Lineups

Team News

Manchester United

• Louis van Gaal's first competitive match in charge of United has been hotly anticipated and kicks off the Premier League campaign on Saturday.
• The Dutchman has kept the faith with the 3-4-1-2 formation he utilised at the World Cup with Netherlands throughout pre-season, and with new signing Luke Shaw sidelined Ashley Young could get a chance to prove his worth at left wing-back.
• Robin van Persie hasn't featured at all in pre-season and is a doubt so Javier Hernandez could partner new captain Wayne Rooney up front, with Danny Welbeck carrying a knock.
• Elsewhere Ander Herrera will make his competitive debut for the club in midfield.

Swansea

• It's been a busy summer at Swansea, with many of the outgoings at the club going somewhat under the radar.
• Ben Davies and Michel Vorm left for Tottenham, while former first teamers Chico, Jonathan De Guzman and Pablo Hernandez are also no longer at the club.
• Bafetimbi Gomis has signed from Lyon but will likely to start on the bench as Wilfried Bony's deputy. There could, however, be debuts for Lukasz Fabianski and Jefferson Montero, along with a welcome return from Gylfi Sigurdsson.

 Prediction

• In a repeat of their season opener from last season, United will be hoping for a repeat result under a new manager after David Moyes made an impressive start with a 4-1 win over the Swans in 2013/14.
• It's been a summer of upheavel at Swansea and they may get off to a slightly sluggish start in turn, despite some astute acquisitions having been made.
• Van Gaal's side should continue on from an impressive pre-season campaign and register a first win of the season to get the ball rolling under the Dutchman.

Sheffield United v Mansfield Town Betting Preview | 2014-08-14

SHEFFIELD UNITED v MANSFIELD TOWN  Football - England - Capital One Cup 1st Round
Wednesday 14th August 2014 - Kickoff: 0245hrs

SHEFFIELD UNITED

It’s the first round of the Capital One Cup (or the League Cup if you prefer), and Sheffield United entertain League Two outfit Mansfield Town at Bramall Lane.
Sheffield United started their League One campaign with a disappointing 1-2 home defeat to Bristol City who finished mid-table at the end of last season but are tipped to do well this term under manager Steve Cotterill.

However, Nigel Clough’s men will be keen to bounce back here tonight in a competition that they’ll feel they can progress to at least the third round if the fixtures are kind to them. Last season, The Blades were knocked out in the first round when they lost 1-2 to Burton Albion, but with a first day defeat on Saturday, I reckon we’ll see a more determined United outfit this time around.

MANSFIELD TOWN

Visitors Mansfield Town also suffered an opening day defeat of their League Two campaign when they lost 0-1 away at Northampton Town who are one of my ‘dark horse’ tips to perhaps make a play-off place this season under manager Chris Wilder.

Back to Mansfield though, and they too crashed out of this competition at the first hurdle last season with a 0-2 defeat away at Tranmere Rovers who at the time were a League One side. In their first season back in the football league last term, The Stags finished a creditable mid-table but they may have to wait another couple of seasons to mount a serious promotion challenge.

THE BETTING VERDICT:

It’s always a bit of a risk when you dabble in the League Cup as you’re not sure how serious some of the teams take the competition now, but with a larger squad and more depth at their disposal, I’ll back Sheffield United to take this tie, particularly as they lost on Saturday. Manager Clough will be keen to get that ‘winning feeling’ back at Bramall Lane as soon as possible as they prepare for what could be a big season for them. United to edge this perhaps 1-0.

The Pick :

Sheffield United 1 Mansfield Town 0

Done Deal: Manchester United Complete Signing Of 6 ft. 7″ Giant

Manchester United have finalised a deal for an extremely tall, but extremely talented young goalkeeper…

The Red Devils have confirmed via the club’s official website that they’ve completed the transfer of Vanja Milinkovic from Serbian side FK Vojvodina.

Milinkovic stands at 6 ft. 7″ and is a goalkeeper, having already represented the national Serbian Under-19 side on numerous occasions.

“After lengthy talks that have taken place over the past month, we have finally completed negotiations on Monday and we can officially inform the public that our young and promising goalkeeper has joined Manchester United,” said Zoran Scepanovic, the president of the little known Serbian minnows.

The teenage prodigy will remain in his homeland for the 2014/15 campaign, before heading to England to begin his development at Old Trafford next summer.

“He will remain in Vojvodina for the next year, where he will be under the supervision of our experts and coaches from the English football giants, while continuing to train and perform in the jersey of his home club,” Scepanovic continued.

“This is an opportunity to thank everyone who participated in the realisation of this transfer. Can I point out Manchester United’s very correct attitude.”

Few outside of Serbia have seen much of the giant goalkeeper in action, but he’s rated highly due to his enormous stature, commanding presence, and quick reflexes.

Whether he’ll ever be able to eventually usurp David De Gea, himself only 23, from the United no.1 jersey is uncertain, but fans will be keeping an ear out for Milinkovic’s progress next with the knowledge that he’ll become a Red Devil next summer.

DONE THIS WEEK? Arsenal to complete shock £24m move for Manchester United target

According to reports emanating from Portugal, Arsenal are on the verge of completing a £24m move for Manchester United and Chelsea target William Carvalho, with newspaper O Jogo claiming the deal for the Sporting Lisbon midfielder could be pushed through by the end of the week.

 

The Gunners, who have already spent heavily this summer on the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Callum Chambers, are now said to be closing in on Carvalho, who appeared twice for Portugal during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, continuing Arsenal and Arsene Wenger’s stunning summer spending spree.

Manchester United and Chelsea have both shown an interest in the 22-year-old over the last year, with the player indicating back in March that he would be open to a move to Old Trafford in particular. However, since the sacking of David Moyes, the rumours have lessened, and with Chelsea seemingly satisfied since bringing in former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, the way is clear for Wenger to complete a deal for the Portugal international.

O Jogo report that Arsenal had a bid rejected by Sporting last month on the basis of it being a installation-based payment scheme, and that the Portuguese side are looking to receive a fee in full for their midfield powerhouse.

Carvalho is said to have a £37m buyout clause in his current contract, but if reports are to be believed, Arsenal are confident of getting their man for cheaper, with a £24m bid in full expected this week.

Man United hope to confirm Arturo Vidal signing

Manchester United are hoping to push through the deal to sign Juventus star Arturo Vidal this week, according to reports.

The Chile star is at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war with the Italian champions insisting they want to keep him unless he makes it clear he wants to move.

The 27-year-old is likely to cost around £40m with new United boss Louis van Gaal ready to splash the cash to make the deal happen, according to the Daily Mail.

Juve director general Beppe Marotta said: “Vidal? We already said that he is not on the market, but the player’s will is decisive. Vidal has never said he wants to leave, and Juventus will sell him only if he were unhappy to remain.”

He added: “Nowadays, however, there’s absolutely no reason to even be discussing this now.”

Van Gaal has said that he is happy with the players he has at his disposal and has been further encouraged after his side beat Real Madrid 3-1 in the pre-season friendly in America yesterday.

AGREED – Manchester United Finally Seal Superstar Deal

Manchester United announced the departure of yet another veteran defender yesterday as Patrice Evra joined Italian giants Juventus.

The French defender’s exit confirms an end of an era for the Red Devils as also legendary names like Giggs, Ferdinand and Vidic will no longer be playing for United.

However, as far as the new revolution is concerned, Manchester United might have just agreed one of the signings of the season by sealing a deal to sign Borussia Dortmund central defender Mats Hummels.

According to reports in the media, Manchester United have finally agreed a deal with Borussia Dortmund to sign the German international who is arguably one of the best central defenders in the world at the moment.

Hummels was a pivotal member of the squad that lifted the World Cup. Not only was he solid at the back but also scored two key goals for Germany.

As per the provided link, United are paying only £16m to hire his services and that can be considered as a massive bargain buy. Adding to that, the move can be confirmed sometime within this week.

His arrival will make Man United’s central defense very strong and it is likely that Hummels will be joined by another new center half at United.

Previously reported on the website, Louis van Gaal is also looking to complete a deal for compatriot Stefan de Vrij as well who was consistent for Netherlands in the World Cup.

World Cup 2014 Final: Germany vs Argentina Tips & Prediction

Can Sabella’s defensive strategy stop Germany as well?

Germany will encounter Argentina in the final of the FIFA World Cup 2014 in Rio de Janeiro on Monday (03:00 GMT+8). After their historic 7:1 victory over the host nation the Germans will enter the legendary Maracana Stadium as favourites, but they will face a rock-solid Argentinian defence there.

 

Germany

Though it were some of the most astonishing moments in football history when Germany scored four goals within seven minutes against the five-times world champions on Tuesday, we should not overvalue them, as Brazil’s defence acted like amateurs. Still this unbelievable success will boost Germany’s confidence even more, if this is possible at all. They have already displayed an extreme confident body language when demolishing Portugal 4:0 in their first match, never left doubts that they want to lift the Cup this time. The Germans perform well structured, play quick and precisely, defend very organised and still have huge quality on their bench. With Thomas Müller (5 goals) and Miroslav Klose they are equipped with the top-scorers of the the last two World Cups and in goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and Mats Hummels they have the two probably best defensive players of the tournament available. The later got substituted in the Brazil match due to tendon problems, but should be fit for the final.

 

Argentina

While the match between Brazil and Germany was pure excitement its counterpart between Argentina and the Netherlands was probably the most boring semi-final ever. Two extremely defensively-minded teams did not even try to score goals, so nobody was surprised when they found themselves in a penalty shoot-out which was finally won by the South Americans. It was not the first time the ‘Albiceleste’ played this destructive football in this tournament, they also played very defensively when beating Belgium and Switzerland both 1:0 before. However, besides a solid defence the Argentinians have an outstanding defensive midfielder in Javier Mascherano and they know how to slow down a match, which could effect the German game seriously. They will patiently wait for their chance and hope that the four times ‘World Player of the Year’ Lionel Messi will decide this final with his ingenuity. A creative player who could support Messi is Angel di Maria. The midfielder missed the match against the Dutch due to a thigh injury and his appearance in the final is not sure as well.

 

Expected line-ups

 

Current form

 

Potential impacts

• The legendary Maracana Stadium has a capacity of 73,500.
• 23 °C and a humidity of around 70 percent are expected in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.
• Argentina defeated Germany 3:2 in the World Cup final in Mexiko 1986.
• Germany returned the favour when beating Argentina 1:0 in the final in Italy 1990.
• The Argentinians have a positive record against Germany (9-5-6).

 

Prediction

We can expect the Argentinians to play similar defensive tactics like they did the games before. They will slow the tempo down and try to open lanes for Messi and Co. to dribble through. This time they will face their strongest opponent though and it is hard to imagine that the German ‘machine’ will not create goal scoring opportunities. While Argentina had to go through 120 minutes in the semi-finals on Wednesday, the Germans already started to rest after the first half against Brazil. They will set Argentina under massive pressure and with their huge selection of outstanding offensive players Germany should be able to crack the bastion.

Who is not that confident and thinks that this match could go to extra time should go for the outright victory. Germany to become World Champions is probably the best betting-tip for this final.

Argentina have not been down at any time in this World Cup yet. Considering they would fall behind, they would have to open their back and allow the Germans the room they need. In that case it is possible that Germany could even win the final by more than one goal difference. So if you are looking for a bigger reward you should bet on a clear German victory.

+ The Germans are full of confidence after their historic 7:1 victory.
+ Besides other strong offensive players they have the top scores of the last two World Cups.
+ Argentina played 120 minutes in the semi-finals and had one day less for regeneration.
+ Germany beat Argentina 4:0 at the World Cup 2010.
- Argentina's rock-solid defence will be hard to crack.
- No European team could ever win the World Cup in South America.

 

Our Prediction: Germany wins

Netherlands vs Argentina World Cup 2014 Highlights Penalty Shootout (2-4)

Penalty Shootout- Netherlands vs Argentina 2-4

Netherlands Argentina 0-0 Ron Vlaar misses
Holland Argentina 0-1 Lionel Messi scores
Netherlands Argentina 1-1 Arjen Robben scores
Holland Argentina 1-2 Ezequiel Garay scores
Netherlands Argentina 1-2 Wesley Sneijder misses
Holland Argentina 1-3 Sergio Aguero scores
Netherlands Argentina 2-3 Dirk Kuyt scores
Netherlands Argentina 2-4 Maxi Rodriguez scores


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Shame of all shames for Brazil

That is how the front page of Rio de Janeiro's prominent daily newspaper O Globo described Brazil's historic and "catastrophic" 7-1 semi-final defeat to Germany in Belo Horizonte.

Pictures of fans with their faces frozen in tears after Germany plundered five goals in 29 first-half minutes were labelled with tags including "suffering", "frustration" and "bewilderment", and the media autopsy has only just begun.

"Nobody suffers a 7-1 rout, especially not in a World Cup semi-final, by pure fluke," wrote Allan Caldas in O Globo.

"It is difficult to find a single explanation for Tuesday's humiliation."

Thomas Muller, Miroslav Klose and Sami Khedira all sliced through the Selecao to score with ease and, with the South Americans seemingly helpless to resist, Toni Kroos and substitute Andre Schurrle grabbed two goals each.

Over in Berlin, Hamburg and Munich, delirious fans of Die Mannschaft partied long into the night after witnessing "a victory for all eternity".

Alongside a picture of two-goal hero Schurrle and grinning Germany boss Joachim Low, daily tabloid Bild described the national team's triumph as "7-1 Madness. Lightning DFB team knock out Brazil.

"Unbelievable! Gigantic! Fantastic!"

Bild continued: "While we lay in each others' arms, images of crying and shocked Brazilians flickered in our living rooms.

"Sorry, Brazil. We did not want to hurt you.

"But without the injured Neymar and the suspended Thiago Silva the glorious Selecao was reduced to rubble."

Football magazine Kicker was the next publication to stick the boot into Brazil.

"What further superlatives can we find to boast about the historic events that took place on July 8, 2014 in Belo Horizonte?" it wrote.

"Since when did the World Cup semi-finals become training games?"

Brazilian papers which had printed cut-out masks of star striker Neymar - ruled out of the game with a fractured vertebra before the showdown at the Estadio Mineirao - refused to accept that his absence had been pivotal.

They instead blamed the complete disarray in Luiz Felipe Scolari's midfield.

Those home fans who stayed until the final whistle sarcastically cheered Germany's every touch and pass until Oscar's late consolation strike invited facetious cheers of mock celebration.

O Globo's Caldas added: "There was one obvious thing, that everyone could see at the Mineirao, but it was not the absence of Neymar.

"The problem was that the team failed to protect the middle of the pitch, where the Germans were at their strongest.

"Was Neymar sorely missed? Of course. But without their best playmaker the team needed to show collective strength.

"Throughout the World Cup, even when Neymar was on the field, Scolari's team was like a desert in the middle: no creativity, no strength, no union."

Such was the impact of the "massacre" to the Brazilian psyche, the nation is now even prepared to forget about the embarrassment of the 'Maracanazo' - the Selecao's World Cup final defeat to Uruguay in Rio back in 1950.

Folha de Sao Paolo ran the headline 'Historical Humiliation', writing: "Brazil are again humiliated when trying to win a World Cup at home" while Rio-based daily Lance described the "insignificant" Maracanazo as "a thing of the past".

Lance went so far as to demand Scolari step down as head coach immediately after Saturday's third-place game against Holland or Argentina in Brasilia.

The Germany media's greatest concern?

"Bring on the Dutch."

World Cup Group D Tips and Predictions

Group D emerged as one of several proverbial groups of death as three former Champions - ITALY, URUGUAY and ENGLAND - will fight for the top spot while COSTA RICA are outsiders. Who will advance to the knockout stage and who will get sent home early? Find here a complete World Cup Group D betting preview with tips and predictions.

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WORLD CUP 2014 GROUP D BETTING PREVIEW

ITALY arrive at the 2014 finals in better shape than they were four years ago in South Africa when they earned just two points in the group stage. Italy finished bottom. Prandelli was charged with the task of restoring the faith back into Italian football and he did just that by leading them to the final of Euro 2012, where they were defeated by defending champions Spain. In the WC qualifying group, Cesare Prandelli’s men cruised to qualification for Brazil without losing a game despite having the likes of Denmark and Czech Republic as company. Anyway, they were disappointing in their friendlies before to travel to Brazil: the Azzurri drew 0:0 and 1:1 against Ireland and Luxembourg rispectively. The Azzurri's defence is based around Juventus's mean back-line, with the majestic pass-master Andrea Pirlo pulling the strings just in front of them. In attack, they can count on Balotelli, Cassano and the Italian Serie top goalscorer Ciro Immobile.

ENGLAND went undefeated in their European qualifying group and that was a solid feat considering the good teams of Ukraine and Poland was in the group. Overall, England had six wins and four draws in the qualification process. They were defensively stout with just four goals allowed in 10 matches. With their second-youngest World Cup squad, the Three Lions may, however, cause a surprise through their pace and youthful nerve, led by one of England’s biggest assets, Roy Hodgson. They recently beat Peru with ease and drew 2:2 with Ecuador in two International Friendlies before the WC. While the defence may be suspect, the midfield may be where England can hope to win games with the youngsters Barkley, Sterling and Lallana absolutely men to watch.

URUGUAY had an abysmal stretch from Sept. 2012 through March 2013. They played six matches, earned a total of two points and were outscored 15-3. They rebounded, winning four of their last five to reach the fifth-place playoff, and beat Jordan 5-0 on aggregate to qualify through the back door. The South American team reached the 2010 World Cup semifinals and this tournament will be played in Brazil where they have won their only World Cup title. Furthermore, they have one of the best forward, Luis Suarez who just had a monster season. The Liverpool striker, anyway, might miss the first match (or two) due to a knee problem but Cavani is phenomenal when he plays as lone forward. They have continuity in the coaching ranks with Oscar Tabarez having been in charge since 2006 and South American conditions may be in their favour.

COSTA RICA are the group and tournament’s long shots. They did not qualify for the 2010 edition, and this year will mark their fourth appearance in the World Cup. Head coach Jorge Luis Pinto has constructed a solid and defensively sound unit that conceded the least goals during CONCACAF qualifying. This is a strong defensive team, but have proven they can score against big clubs, beating both Mexico and the USA in the qualification for the World Cup. They also have the benefit of playing close to home but the task was made even tougher recently when they lost injured striker Álvaro Saborío, plus the absence of Everton full-back Bryan Oviedo, is a huge blow to their chances. Bryan Ruiz and Joel Campbell will be the main attacking threats.

WORLD CUP 2014 GROUP D FIXTURES

• 14 June 2014, URUGUAY v COSTA RICA, Estadio Castelao, Fortaleza
• 14 June 2014, ENGLAND v ITALY, Arena Amazonia, Manaus
• 19 June 2014, URUGUAY v ENGLAND, Arena de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo
• 20 June 2014, ITALY v COSTA RICA, Arena Pernambuco, Recife
• 24 June 2014, ITALY v URUGUAY , Arena das Dunas, Natal
• 24 June 2014, COSTA RICA v ENGLAND, Estadio Mineirao, Belo Horizonte

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Liverpool Vs West Ham United Preview | Team News, Stats & Key Men

After their 5-1 slaughter of Norwich on Wednesday night, Liverpool will be hoping for a similar result when they take on West Ham United at Anfield this weekend.

Luis Suarez scored four goals and got an assist to round off one of the best individual performances at Anfield in years against the Canaries, and so Sam Allardyce will have to make sure his defence are fully prepared for what the Uruguayan striker could bring to the game.

The visitors will be hoping to get back on track after losing to Crystal Palace on Tuesday night, a result made worse by Stewart Downing’s goal in the second half being disallowed by the referee. Based on Liverpool’s recent form at Anfield however, this will be a big challenge for the Hammers.

Team News
There are no new injury worries for Brendan Rodgers, although he will still have to make do without the services of Daniel Sturridge and Jose Enrique. Jon Flanagan will likely continue to deputise at left back in Enrique’s absence.

West Ham have a number of injuries to concern them. They will travel to Merseyside without Winston Reid, Ricardo Vaz Te, and Alou Diarra and of course, Andy Carroll who is still out for the foreseeable future. Allardyce will also be unable to call upon Ravel Morrison due to suspension, which will be a big blow to the team.

Interesting Statistics

• Liverpool have played West Ham United on 125 occasions, winning 66 times. West Ham have won 24 times.
• The last time the two sides met at Anfield in April this year, the game ended in a goalless draw.
• Luis Suarez is currently the league’s highest goal scorer with 13 goals to his name. Ravel Morrison has the most at West Ham with three but is unavailable for selection.
• This will be Stewart Downing’s first game at Anfield since leaving the Reds in the summer

Key Players
Liverpool – Luis Suarez

Who else? The Uruguayan has been sensational since his return from suspension, scoring 13 goals in nine games. This averages out at a goal every 62 minutes and he has scored them from 26 shots on target. He has had 18 shots go astray, however, he still has a reasonably good shooting accuracy of 59%. He has converted 30% of his chances and has scored four of his clear-cut chances, missing three. This gives him a conversion rate of 57% in this area alone. Creatively, he has created 22 chances, 19 of which came from open play. He also has two assists to his name as well. Looking at these stats, it’s no surprise that Suarez is currently one of the best players in the Premier League. I wouldn’t be surprised if West Ham have at least two defenders on him at all times.

West Ham United – Stewart Downing

Admittedly, Ravel Morrison would have been my choice for West Ham had he not been suspended. However, Stewart Downing can be an influential player for his team. He has created 27 chances for his team mates, 19 of which have come from open play. It has only resulted in one assist for him however, although this is more a reflection of West Ham’s difficulties scoring this season. This all means he is creating a chance every 33 minutes. He still has the same trouble with crossing the ball as he did at Liverpool, being accurate with only 30 from 102 attempts, giving him a crossing accuracy of 29%. It’s not surprising to see that Downing has been most active in the attacking zone of the park, completing 216 of 335 passes. He has also completed 108 of 145 passes in the final third, giving him an accuracy of 74%. West Ham fans will surely be hoping that Downing will use his Anfield return as a means of inspiring the side to victory.

Prediction
I’ve not been right with many of my predictions so far this season but then it has been a strange season all round! In this game though, I think Liverpool have the advantage over West Ham. The visitors are missing their best player in Morrison and aren’t on the best run of form. If Suarez has another game like the one against Norwich, then the Reds will win. I think it will finish 2-0 to Liverpool.

West Brom vs. Manchester City Preview

On Thursday, Manchester City will head to The Hawthorns to take on West Bromwich Albion in an all-important Premier League clash between two teams looking to move up in the table.

So far, Manchester City has been absolutely unstoppable on home turf but haven't been nearly as impressive on the road, so Manuel Pellegrini's side will be looking to reverse that trend this evening.

As of now, City sit six points back of Arsenal, but after watching Liverpool and Manchester United both struggle last weekend, this squad knows nothing has been decided yet.

At the other end of the pitch, West Brom will be looking to once again notch a favorable result against a league heavyweight, having drawn with Chelsea and emerging victorious against Manchester United already this season.

Heading into what should be a very entertaining tilt, here's a look at everything you need to know in order to catch all the action.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 5, at 4 a.m. GMT+8

Where: The Hawthorns

Top Storyline: Will Vincent Kompany's Return Help City to Second Road Victory of 2013?

After spending roughly two months on the shelf due to a thigh injury, Vincent Kompany is reportedly ready to return to action for City.

As such, Pellegrini's defense, which is coming off two consecutive clean sheets, will be even stingier than before with the Belgian star back in the mix. 

But even with the captain back on the pitch, this team's biggest hurdle will be finding a way to secure a victory away from Etihad Stadium.

Thus far, Kompany's club has just one road triumph on the season, which is simply unacceptable for a team that once looked destined to challenge for the Premier League crown.

And, though West Brom are obviously a far less talented side, there's no overlooking their results against top-caliber clubs so far in 2013.

Ultimately, Pellegrini's troops need to produce offensively, because just eight of the club's 37 goals have come away from home, which won't be good enough to keep pace with Arsenal and Chelsea. 

Prediction: Manchester City 2, West Bromwich 1

Despite Man City's struggles on the road, the offensive firepower of Pellegrini's side will be the difference, and the Citizens will come away with a very important victory.

Sergio Aguero and Alvaro Negredo have been extremely reliable up front, and they'll continue that trend tomorrow against an overmatched opponent.

While West Brom would clearly be at a disadvantage as far as talent goes (even with a full squad), the absences of Youssouf Mulumbu, Ben Foster and Scott Sinclair certainly won't help.

Simply put, Man City has way too many weapons to fall or draw against an inferior foe once again on the road, so this will be the match where Pellegrini and company turn things around.

Furthermore, with just one goal in the previous six tilts with City, West Brom won't have an answer to the visitors' impressive offensive attack.

Ajax vs Barcelona Champions League – November 27, 2013 Prediction

The Ajax vs Barcelona Champions League match will take place this Wednesday, November 27, 2013 (03:45 AM Pacific) at the Amsterdam Stadium.  While FC Barcelona has secured their qualification into the Round-of-16, Ajax must win this Tuesday, or tie with the hope that AC Milan loses against Celtic.  Tuesday’s game will be an intense match for the Dutch, who in front of their fans will attempt to earn a win in against one of the world’s greatest wins in what would become a historic achievement.

After obtaining just 4 points after four matches, Ajax is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League if they lose, and AC Milan win this week.  Were to elimination happen, Frank De Boer’s team will have the opportunity to compete in the Europa League starting in the Round-of-32.  While elimination is the most clear scenario, there is still chance of hope for Ajax.  If AC Milan ties or loses against Celtic, Ajax and the Italian team will play a decisive match next December 11, where the winner will qualify as the second placed team of Group H.

The team coached by Tata Martino is in a whole different situation from Ajax, because with 10 points, and 5 more than the second placed AC Milan, the ‘blaugranas’ have almost secured their first place seed.  The worst would need to happen for Barcelona to win the group, as they have to lose their final two matches, and for either Ajax or Milan to also win their last two.  Nonetheless, Barcelona has to play intelligently this Tuesday, in order to secure the group.

Ajax vs Barcelona Prediction

The Ajax vs Barcelona match will be played in a wonderful atmosphere at the Amsterdam Arena.  The visitors will play without much pressure as a win, and even a tie will reassure their first place in Group H.  Meanwhile, Ajax cannot play defensively, considering that they need at least a tie to remain alive in their aspirations to finish in second place of the group.  The Ajax vs Barcelona match will be exciting, but the Spanish league side will win 2-0, and confirm their first place seed in the group.

Everton v Liverpool – Team News, Tactics, Probable Line-ups And Prediction

It may not be the biggest game of the season (yet) as far as the title race is concerned, but it surely is the biggest game of the season in Liverpool. After two weeks of friendlies and pulsating World Cup qualifiers, normal service resumes as Premier League takes centre stage once again.

Second-placed Liverpool take the short 10 minute walk across to Stanley Park in Saturday’s lunchtime kickoff. They take on Everton side whose transition from one long-serving manager has been overshadowed this season by former manager David Moyes’ teething troubles at Old Trafford. Brendan Rodgers received a baptism by fire in terms of Merseyside derbies in October 2012; but this time, the shoe is on the other foot as Roberto Martinez aims to guide the Toffees to victory over their archrivals for the first time in 3 years.

Team News and Tactics

Everton FC

Roberto Martinez is currently ushering in his own brand of a revolution on the blue half of Merseyside, this season. The former Swansea and Wigan manager has inherited a gritty squad of players from the long serving David Moyes, and has set about tweaking the side with the aim of playing a more expansive brand of football. Usually slow starters, Everton have made a steady start to their season thus far under new management, sitting in sixth place, behind Manchester United on goal difference.

Martinez knows what his best team is, this season. Manchester City loanee Gareth Barry has featured prominently in his plans; as has Chelsea loanee Romelu Lukaku. He hasn’t been afraid to give Ross Barkley more game time, and is expected to bring him back to the starting lineup against Liverpool. Leon Osman, however, may give the manager something to think about, given his experience. One can expect to see Gerard Deulofeu feature on the left wing in the second half, depending on Brendan Rodgers’ choice at right back; but the rest of the starting lineup could feature the usual suspects.

Darron Gibson is the Toffees’ sole long term injury casualty. Kevin Mirallas and Romelu Lukaku endured a disappointing international break with their Liverpool counterpart Simon Mignolet; while Leighton Baines’ failure to prevent Alexis Sanchez scoring from a header garnered negative publicity for the left back.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; McCarthy, Barry; Mirallas, Barkley, Pienaar; Lukaku

Liverpool FC
Preparation for this game has not been ideal thanks to the involvement of key players on international duty with mixed success. The likes of Simon Mignolet, Daniel Sturridge and Steven Gerrard endured a disappointing run of results – with all three players involved in back-to-back losses at home. On the other hand, Mamadou Sakho and Luis Suarez, on the other hand, played no small part in ensuring France and Uruguay qualified for the big dance in Brazil.

Jose Enrique has featured in just 2 out of Liverpool’s last 5 League games due to injury, and Brendan Rodgers’ disclosed that he will require surgery for a nagging knee problem has ensured that he will miss an unspecified amount of time, starting with the Merseyside derby. Kolo Toure is said to be nursing a muscle injury, while Iago Aspas is not expected to return until December. Given Liverpool’s issues in both full back positions this season, Brendan Rodgers’ is faced with a choice of throwing either Aly Cissokho or John Flanagan into the deep end against either Steven Pienaar or Kevin Mirallas. That being said, the Reds are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to attain full points from this fixture – owner John W Henry’s private jet is being used to bring Luis Suarez back to Liverpool as early as possible, to ensure adequate rest for the Uruguayan.

Probable Lineup (4-4-2): Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Cissokho; Lucas, Gerrard, Henderson, Coutinho; Sturridge, Suarez

Key Facts

1. Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez have scored 16 out of 21 goals scored by Liverpool this season in the Premier League.
2. Everton are undefeated in their last 14 home matches in the Premier League.

Player to Watch
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

Liverpool’s Captain Fantastic had to take painkilling injections in order to play the friendly against Germany at Wembley; but it didn’t help as England slumped to a 1-0 defeat to a second-string German eleven. However, one can trust Gerrard to be at full tilt on Saturday, given that this is a derby fixture. He was once substituted by Rafa Benitez because he was ‘playing with too much emotion’; but an older and wiser Gerrard will be better placed to influence the game in a positive way this time around. As against Fulham two weeks ago, expect the Reds to thrive if the captain is in full flow.

Prediction
Everton 2-2 Liverpool

Liverpool have not won either League game this season that has taken place after an international break. It will not be a huge surprise if this trend continues, given key players’ exertions during their travels with their native countries.

The international break, however, is the same for everyone. As many as 8 players who are likely to feature for the Toffees had featured in friendly games for their national teams during the international break. There will be no lack of effort or lethargy on show, however, given the emotion associated. Expect a relatively high scoring game, with moments of great skill combined with individual errors that could prove vital.

Crystal Palace v Arsenal – Team News, Probable Starting Lineups,Tactics And Prediction

Crystal Palace host Arsenal FC at Selhurst Park on Saturday and this clash couldn’t have come at a worse time for the home side. This game has all the makings and could turn out to be another exciting London derby.

Crystal Palace are currently 19^th in the points table having registered a solitary win in the season so far. In fact the Eagles have won only one of their last 10 matches in all competitions. But the big news ahead of this game for the home side is the departure of their manager Ian Holloway. The Englishman, who has been in charge of the club since last year, stepped down after admitting that the club “needs and impetus of energy”. Keith Millen has been appointed as the caretaker manager for the Arsenal match, while Tony Pulis is rumoured to be the favourite to replace Holloway.

Arsenal on the other hand are enjoying life at the top of the Premier League with a two point advantage over Chelsea. The Gunners have lost just once in their last 13 matches in all competitions and that defeat came in their Champions League fixture against Borussia Dortmund this week. Despite their good start to the season, a lot of critics are still skeptical about them launching a serious title challenge and their upcoming fixtures against Liverpool and Manchester United will prove to be the litmus test. But before those fixtures, Arsenal will have to chance to extend their lead at the top as Chelsea and Manchester City go head to head this weekend.

The last match between these two London sides came back in 2005 and Arsenal won that game comfortably with a 5-1 score line with Thierry Henry scoring a brace. Henry also scored in the reverse fixture at Selhurst Park that season, but Aki Riihilahti equalized and salvaged a draw.

Crystal Palace – Team News, Lineup And Formation

Keith Millen faces few injury concerns ahead of this game. Patrick McCarthy, Jack Hunt, Glenn Murray and Jonathan Williams are all out of contention due to injuries. Glenn Murray’s absence has been a big blow for Palace this season so far, as their strikers have misfired upfront.

Palace succumbed to a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Fulham in their last game, despite taking an early lead through Adrian Muriappa. Millen is unlikely to make any significant tactical changes to the side, which means the team will continue to play in their 4-3-3 formation. But he is sure to make two changes to the starting line-up that was fielded against Fulham.

28-year-old midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi will replace Stuart O’Keefe at the middle of the part, alongside Mile Jedinak and Jose Campana. Upfront Dwight Gayle, who didn’t have a good outing against Fulham, is likely to drop back the bench, with former Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh leading the line.

Chamakh will have a point to prove against his former club and could possibly churn out a better performance. Crystal Palace’s problems have been two fold – they are not only conceding a lot of goals, they are also failing to score them. The London side has conceded 13 goals in their last five matches, and managed to score only two during that period. The strikers haven’t looked impressive, except for Dwight Gayle who looks like a good prospect.

Mile Jedinak has perhaps been their most impressive player this season, but he hasn’t received too much support from his fellow midfielders. Against Arsenal, the likes of Bolasie and Puncheon will need to track back to help out their full backs, something which they haven’t done diligently so far.

Possible Starting Line up [4-3-3]: Speroni (GK); Moxey, Delaney, Mariappa, Ward; Dikgacoi, Jedinak, Campana; Bolasie, Chamakh, Puncheon

Crystal Palace v Arsenal – Lineup And Formation

Arsenal – Team News, Lineup And Formation

Arsenal have the longest injury list in the Premier League at the moment. Although the squad hasn’t been too stretched so far, but Arsene Wenger didn’t have the option to rest his key players for low profile matches. Abou Diany, Yaya Sanogo, Lukas Podolski, Alex Oxlade Chamberlain and Theo Walcott are all out of contention for this game with fitness concerns, while there are doubts about the fitness of Jack Wilshere and Mathieu Flamini – although the latter is expected to recover from his concussion in time for this game.

Arsenal did suffer from a disappointing defeat against Borussia Dortmund in their last game and their performance in that match left a lot to be desired. Arsene Wenger is expected to make two changes to the side that lost at the Emirates in midweek. Midfield enforcer Mathieu Flamini will return to partner Mikel Arteta in front of the defence, while Santi Cazorla will replace Thomas Rosicky. Flamini’s return will see Wilshere, who has an ankle problem, being dropped to the bench, with Ramsey playing on the right.

Flamini’s return will provide the bite they were lacking at the center of the park against Dortmund. The Frenchman has made a huge impact since signing for the club this summer, and has cemented his place in the side. Flamini’s presence not only enhances defensive solidarity of the side, but it also allows the other more attacking players to play with a sense of freedom.

Aaron Ramsey will once again start on the right as Wenger doesn’t have Theo Walcott available at his disposal. The Welshman who has been in fine form this season and scored a brilliant goal against Norwich in their last league game, isn’t exactly comfortable playing out wide, like Wilshere. But Arsenal’s attacking trio behind Giroud are all flexible and will continue to switch throughout the match. Ozil drifts out wide at times, leaving space for Ramsey to move in field. This movement at the top has been a pleasure to watch this season from Arsenal.

Possible Starting Line-Up [4-2-3-1]: Szczesny (GK); Sagna, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs; Arteta, Flamini; Ramsey, Ozil, Cazorla; Giroud

Key Facts

1. Two of Arsenal’s three Premier League title winning campaigns (1997/98 and 2001/02) have seen them pick up fewer points from their opening eight games of the season than they have this term (19).
2. Despite having been relegated in each of their previous four Premier League seasons, Palace have made their worst start to a PL campaign; picking up just three points.
3. No team has used more different players in the Premier League this season than both Arsenal and Crystal Palace (24).
4. Arsenal are unbeaten in 13 competitive away games, winning 11 and drawing twice.
5. Eight different Arsenal players have netted a goal in the Premier League this season; no side have had more individual goalscorers (Chelsea also have eight).

Player To Watch Out For

Olivier Giroud (Arsenal)

While the likes of Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey has grabbed all the headlines, Olivier Giroud has hardly received the praise his performances has deserved. The Frenchman, who received a lot of criticism last season, is looking like a completely transformed player this season. Apart from his excellent hold-up play, the big striker is also scoring for fun and has already racked up six goals in all competitions so far. Giroud also has a fantastic touch for such a big striker and his flick to set up Wilshere last weekend was a treat to watch.

Prediction

Crystal Palace 0-3 Arsenal

Crystal Palace will be nervy at the moment and Arsenal will come out hard at them in order to bounce back from their defeat against Dortmund. The home side will work hard, but the Gunner shave too much quality in their squad for Palace to handle. The away side should win this comfortably with a three goal advantage.

West Brom v Arsenal – Team News, Probable Starting Lineups,Tactics And Prediction

West Bromwich Albion host Arsenal FC at the Hawthorns on Sunday in what promises to be an exciting match. Historically Arsenal have had the upper hand in this fixture and have won four of the last six meetings with the Baggies. The Hawthorns have been a happy hunting ground for the Gunners – winning five of their last six games. This two sides have already faced each other in the League Cup, where Arsenal managed to grab a hard fought win on penalties after Saido Berahino cancelled out Thomas Eisfeld’s opener.

After a fairly disappointing start to their league campaign West Brom are slowly but steadily climbing up the points table. They have won their last two game in the league, including a memorable victory over Manchester United at the Old Trafford in their last game. It was a historic result and nothing short of what their performance deserved. Morgan Amalfitano and youngster Saido Berahino scored for the away side, as West Brom jumped up to 10th in the league table.

Arsenal are currently one of the most in form side in Europe at the moment, having won their last 10 matches in all competitions. The Gunners have had a fantastic start to their season and currently leads the Premier League points table having won five of the opening six matches.

The Gunners are coming into this game on the back of a brilliant performance against Napoli in the Champions League and they will be confident of maintaining their record breaking away form in this trip to the West Midlands.

Team News and Tactical Brief
 

West Bromwich Albion
Steve Clarke have a lot of injury worries to contain with ahead of this fixture. Matej Vydra, Zoltan Gera, Ben Foster and Chris Bunt are still out injured and out of contention for this fixture. There are also doubts about the fitness of Nicolas Anelka, James Morrison and Scott Sinclair, although the later is expected start from the bench.

Clarke is expected to make only one change to the side that won at Old Trafford last weekend. Scott Sinclair, who was replaced by Saido Berahino in the 13th minute of the match against Manchester United will lose his place in the side. 20-year-old Englishman Berahino, who scored against Arsenal in the League cup this season, will make his first start in the league this season after impressing everyone with his footballing abilities.

West Brom will deploy similar tactics to the one they used so successfully against Manchester United. Steve Clarke will use his favoured 4-2-3-1 formation with Yacob and Mulumbu protecting the defence. The duo will play a crucial role in breaking up Arsenal’s play and putting the likes of Ozil and Wilshere under pressure when they have possession in the attacking third.

The Baggies will sit deep and will look to hit Arsenal on the counter attacks. Anichebe has added a lot of physicality upfront and is capable of holding up play. In Berahino, Sessegnon and Amalfitano they have a potent attack that is capable of causing problems to the Arsenal defence.

Steve Clarke will look to use the pace of his wingers and Sessegnon to exploit the space left behind by the marauding Arsenal full-backs. West Brom themselves have been fairly resolute at the back with Jonas Olsson in fine form presently.

Probable Starting Line up [4-2-3-1]: Myhill (GK); Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Yacob, Mulumbu; Berahino, Sessegnon, Amalfitano; Anichebe

Arsenal
Like Steve Clarke, Arsene Wenger has a long injury list to contain with at the moment. Abou Diaby, Yaya Sanogo, Lukas Podolski, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade Chamberlain are all out injured at the moment. Santi Cazorla is reportedly close to attaining full fitness and a return to the starting line-up, but Wenger is reportedly unwilling to risk him before the international break is over. There are also slight concerns about the fitness of Sagna before this game, but the Frenchman is expected recover in time.

Arsene Wenger is expected to make only one change to the starting eleven that was fielded against Napoli in the midweek. Jack Wilshere, who came on as a substitute in that game, will replace Tomas Rosicky in the line-up. The Czech international is returning from an injury and Arsene Wenger is unlikely to many risks with him at the moment.

Arsene Wenger has the problem of plenty in the attacking half of the midfield in the squad and with the likes of Cazorla, Walcott and Podolski set to return, it will be interesting to see the combination he favours with a full fit squad. Aaron Ramsey started on the right against Napoli, although he later switched positions with Rosicky and Ozil as the match progressed. It has certainly increased the fluidity and movement in the attacking third and something which creates a  lot of space for them to manoeuvre the ball.

Against West Brom, Wilshere is expected to start on the left, Ozil through the middle and Ramsey on the right, although none is expected to stick to that role. The midfield partnership of Arteta and Flamini is a new one for the Gunners, and one that worked well against Napoli. Flamini’s return to the club has certainly added a lot of steel to the midfield, something which they have lacked for a while. The duo of Flamini and Arteta will be crucial in stopping the West Brom counter attacks and they will have to cover the space left behind by Gibbs and Sagna.

Probable Starting Line-Up [4-2-3-1]: Szczesny (GK); Sagna, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs; Arteta, Flamini; Ramsey, Ozil, Wilshere; Giroud

Key Facts

1. West Brom have won two successive matches in the Barclays Premier League – the last time they won three in a row was in November 2012.
2. The Gunners have scored a league-high four goals in the opening 15 minutes of Barclays Premier League games this season.
3. Arsenal FC have scored the first goal of the game in each of their six Premier League games this season.
4. Arsene Wenger’s side have made a league-high tally of 12 through-balls in the Premier League this season.
5. Steve Clarke has the best win percentage of any West Brom manager in the Premier League (36.4%).

Player To Watch Out For
Morgan Amalfitano (West Brom)

The 28-year-old Frenchman has been in brilliant form this season and has already made a huge impact upon his arrival from France. The former Marseille player has added a lot of spark to West Brom’s attack, something which was highlighted in the match against Manchester United. Amalfitano almost single-handedly took the game to United – scoring one and setting up another. Arsenal defenders, specially Gibbs will have to keep a close eye on the Frenchman in this game.

Prediction
West Brom 1-3 Arsenal

Both the sides are high on confidence at the moment, something which should lead to an entertaining match. West Brom will come out hard at Arsenal, but the Gunners’ superior quality on the pitch should help them tackle this tricky encounter and maintain their fine run of form. Arsenal should win this by a two goal margin.

Real Madrid vs FC Copenhagen Preview: Probable Lineup, Missing Players, Team News, & Prediction | UEFA Champions League - 2013/2014

Probable Lineup

Missing Players

Team News

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid fell to a disappointing 1-0 defeat at the hands of rivals Atletico Madrid at the weekend and will look to bounce back from the defeat against Danish side Copenhagen.
• Carlo Ancelotti may look to make a number of chances, with Raphael Varane expected to come in at centre-back and Álvaro Arbeloa dropping to the bench
• Xabi Alonso and Marcelo are both sidelined with injury, while Gareth Bale will also miss out as Real look to build on their 6-1 win over Galatasaray last month.

FC Copenhagen

• Coach Stale Solbakken will have his full squad available and therefore will likely field his strongest XI when travelling to the Bernabeu.
• The Danish side may same the same team that secured a morale boosting draw against Juventus last time out.

Prediction

• Real Madrid's disappointing defeat to Atletico Madrid has highlighted weaknesses within the squad and Carlos Ancelotti must eradicate the problems in the team and quickly.
• Copenhagen are underperforming in the Danish Superliga and currently sit 11th after taking just 10 points from the opening 10 games this season.
• With the poor form of the Danes, coupled with home advantage and the superior strength in depth in Real, a comfortable home win is the expected outcome at the Bernabeu.

Champions League Preview: Celtic vs Barcelona

A Barcelona side without Lionel Messi has been found out time and again in recent years. There is little doubt that the Spanish giants are not the same dominating side without their talisman, and come Tuesday night, Celtic will look to exploit that particular aspect when the two sides meet in the Champions League.

"(Messi's absence) is obviously very good news for us," Celtic manager Neil Lennon said. "For me he's the best player in the world. There's sadness too because it's always fantastic to see the greatest here in Glasgow."

Messi has been ruled out for up to three weeks with injury and in the Argentine's absence, a certain Brazilian, who came to Barcelona amid much fanfare in the summer, will be expected to take over the reins.

Neymar has not had a spectacular start to life at Barcelona, but it has been quite good and effective. The talented forward has looked at home in a Barcelona shirt, while his understanding with Messi just keeps getting better with every passing game.

He will of course now be the cynosure in Messi's absence and the Brazilian will do well not to be daunted by the atmosphere at Celtic Park on Tuesday night.

It was the immense support that helped the Scottish champions to one of the upsets of the Champions League last season - a 2-1 win over Barcelona in the group stages.

Repeat that feat, and Lennon will go down in Celtic folklore for leading the Scottish side to two historic modern-day wins.

Celtic also need a win to stay afloat in a difficult group, after suffering a 2-0 defeat at AC Milan on Matchday One. Barcelona, though, will be buzzing after their 4-0 thrashing of Ajax, albeit courtesy a hat-trick from Messi.

"We'll try to limit Barcelona to as few chances as we possibly can and capitalise on the chances we get like we did last year," Lennon said. "For me, Barcelona are a class above Milan -- no disrespect to Milan -- in the way they pass the ball, in the way they create chances, in the pace they have."

Barcelona manager Gerardo Martino played down the need to extract revenge on Celtic, and wants his side to focus on the danger that the Scottish side pose from set-pieces.

"If we keep the ball and focus, we won't concede set pieces where they are very dangerous; they are good in the air and have a great physical presence because they are taller than our players," Martino said.

"I don't particularly believe in revenge in football. Barca players are always expected to do well, they are scrutinised by everybody."

Team News: James Forrest is in line for a return for Celtic, along with Beram Kayal. But Joe Ledley misses out yet again with a groin injury, while Derek Boerigger is a doubt.

Messi, of course, is ruled out for Barcelona, but the biggest crisis for Martino is in defence, with Jordi Alba, Javier Mascherano and Carles Puyol all sidelined. Ibrahim Afellay and Isaac Cuenca are long-term injury victims.

Key Men:  

Celtic: Giorgos Samaras smashed a hat-trick against Kilmarnock at the weekend and the Greek international will look to impose himself against Barca.

Barcelona: Neymar was rested for the La Liga game against Almeria at the weekend and the Brazilian will be buzzing to make an impact. The quicker he settles into the game, the better for Barcelona.

Expected lineups:  

Celtic: Forster; Matthews, Van Dijk, Ambrose, Izaguirre; Commons, Brown, Mulgrew, Samaras; Stokes, Pukki.

Barcelona: Valdes; Alves, Pique, Bartra, Adriano; Xavi, Busquets, Fabregas; Iniesta, Sanchez, Neymar.

Prediction: 2-2