Sheffield Wednesday Season Preview: 2018/19

So after a summer of World Cup excitement and pre season, we're now only a few days away from the beginning of the 2018/19 Championship season. Wednesday's season last year was one to forget but will this year be one to remember for Owls fans?

 

Wednesday players exchange handshakes with Spanish side Villarreal

The Squad

If you look at the squad at Hillsborough on paper it ranks up there with the best in the league. At the time of writing only Jack Hunt and Jordan Rhodes have joined the released players in heading out of the door. The Hunt deal while at the time seemed an odd one makes more sense the more you look into it. Despite a good season last year he spent a lot of time on the side-lines and with one year left on his contract to get around £1.6M for him is good business. As for Jordan, I don't think I've ever wanted a player to succeed more here than him. It was all set up for him and unfortunately it just hasn't worked out. We can go into the details of why but that might be another blog. I wish him luck at Norwich and with it being a loan the door isn't completely closed on him at Sheffield Wednesday.

 

As for the players still here we have three top keepers in Keiren Westwood, Joe Wildsmith and Cameron Dawson. All of which I think would have the fans backing if they started, several options at centre back. Despite the disappointment of missing out on signing Frederico Venancio in the summer we still have several players capable of playing in a back three. Lees, Pudil, Thornily, Van Aken, Nielsen, Fox, Jack Lee, Connor O'Grady and Sam Hutchinson have all played at centre back. While some of course are youngsters and will need time it's not quite the crisis that has been painted. In the wing back role we maybe don't have the depth we do at centre back but I still feel we have the players to play that system. Liam Palmer gets a lot of stick however his performances over the last couple of seasons have been good. He'll benefit from more regular football following the departure of Hunt and that's a good thing. Wednesday fans have to accept that he will likely play the majority of the games and need to get behind him. It's clear that in some games the stick from the crowd has got to him which is massively disappointing. Ash Baker will also be hoping for a shot at playing more regularly, a very impressive debut against Norwich on the final day of 2017/18 including a wonderful recovery tackle gave a glimpse of the promise he has. At left wing back Adam Reach will likely occupy that position. George Boyd has played a lot there under Jos and in fairness to him has actually done well there. His versatility could be important, his performance there against Villarreal at the weekend was impressive, good link up play with Fernando Forestieri in particular was pleasing to see. Also Matt Penny who's name has been around for a while will look to break into the team. Another versatile player who can play all along the left gives Jos another option. 

 

Cam Dawson will hope to build on 2017/18

Liam Palmer. Mainstay of Wednesday.

In midfield we have number of options depending on what system we play. Going off pre season and the back end of last season a 352 is the likely starting formation. Towards the back end of last season Barry Bannan and Joey Pelupessy struck up a good partnership in the middle. They will more than likely start at Wigan. Sam Hutchinson who also started against Villarreal will be an asset. We all know Sam's history with injury and nobody will expect 46 games out of him but if managed correctly we know what he can bring to this side. He provides an energy in midfield and an enthusiasm for playing that goes down well with supporters. Despite looking like he won't be fit for a while yet Kieran Lee's return will be a huge positive. Possibly the biggest goal threat off those already mentioned. Youngsters Connor Kirby and Alex Hunt will hope to get game time as will the likes of Jack Stobbs and Fraser Preston. David Jones and Almen Abdi are still here and capable Championship players. While Jones has played a bit on pre season it's difficult to see him in this system as a starter. While he's not a fans favourite (he was booed by someone behind me on Saturday before he even got on the pitch) I think he is a useful player to have. You don't get four promotions from this division for no reason.

Joey Pelupessy celebrates his goal against Millwall

 

Up front we have a number of strikers/wingers/attacking midfielders that if given the service will score goals. Lucas Joao, Atdhe Nuhiu, Steven Fletcher, Gary Hooper, Fernando Forestieri, Marco Matias and Sam Winnall. Baring Matias who I'll come onto later. All have a relative amount of goals to there name. Joao and Nuhiu should and most likely will start at Wigan on Saturday. They deserve to, they saved us from a very difficult situation last season and not only that did more than there fair share of lifting the other players. I've been a massive fan of Nuhiu ever since he arrived and I was delighted he got the rewards for his hard work at the back end of the season. Joao potentially could play in the Premier League. He does things on a football pitch that make you think 'wow'. Fernando Forestieri is a wonderful footballer, he can turn games in the blink of an eye and his performances upon his return to the team last season proved just how much we had missed him. We must keep him if we want to challenge at the top end of this division. Fletcher while I've been very open and honest about not being his biggest fan does still have some qualities that hopefully Jos will be able to get the best out of. A lack of match sharpness was all that denied him a goal against Villarreal. Gary Hooper when he returns will be like a new signing. His ability to read situations and pounce on them is to be admired and if we are to say that Atdhe's 14 goals last year saved us then we must credit Gary with his 14 in the first half of the season. Sam Winnall returns from his year at Derby with a question mark of his head and an ACL injury. If it had not been for that injury I think he'd have already left Wednesday but in all likelihood he'll still be here come the deadline on Thursday the 9th. If he can get fit then he could be a really good addition to this squad. His goal record cannot be denied and under a new manager he might well find himself back playing at Hillsborough. Now we come to Marco Matias, I fully appreciate that a lot of fans will have given up with Marco Matias and feel it's a waste of time talking about him but hear me out on this one. Under Jos he's been involved in every match day squad in which he has been fit for. He's played him when he could have played others. He's also from the outside looking in a well liked member of the squad. He has had bad luck with injuries and I know some people will read that and roll there eyes but it's fact. He has. He's also been unlucky in that the system under Carlos Carvalhal changed and he had to play in different positions when he did play. Under Jos he's had an impact in games. I genuinely feel he could be a really good player for Sheffield Wednesday if given the time.

So Close. Fletcher's first appearance at Hillsborough since December nearly had a goal to mark it.

 

Expectations

From my point of view a clubs expectations should be judged on a variety of different factors. From our point of view factoring in the disappointment of last season, the previous two years with a similar group of players and the other teams in the division I see no reason why Wednesday can't be around that bunch challenging for the top six. Two things often that are never spoken about with predictions are confidence and momentum. Two things Wednesday didn't have last season baring the last 9 games. Winning breads both and when you have high expectations as we rightly did this time last year it can lead to a difficult situation as we found out last season. We have a squad that on it's day can beat anyone in this division. Last year's Championship I felt was a poor year and that isn't me saying that as a bitter Wednesday fan because we didn't do well, it's my genuine opinion. Credit those teams that went up but it wasn't a great standard of division. A lot of underperforming sides, we at one point went on a run of 2 wins in 21 games yet didn't spend anytime in the bottom three. I don't see that happening again this year. If any side has a run like they will drop into it. For me if we challenge for the play offs, I'll be fairly content. We need to get off to a good start and build some momentum going. Wigan away is a tough start, they have the momentum and confidence as well as a good manager and are my tip for a dark hoarse this season.

 

 

Transfers

So we come to the murky world of transfers. We all know the situation or at least we all know that Wednesday haven't made a signing so far. If we are completely honest did we expect much? We all know we are close to the line regarding FFP (now called Profit and Sustainability). Weather we are or aren't under a transfer embargo the most important thing for me is keeping hold of our better players. To turn it on it's head, maybe nobody coming in is a good thing. Giving Jos a chance to actually coach the players, in the long run we need to be a club that can make players better weather they arrive here from another club or come through the academy. For anyone who hasn't listened to it and wants to know more about the whole FFP situation I suggest listening to this. http://www.thewednesdayweek.co.uk/twwoa-ffp-special-3/ Good insight from The Wednesday Week podcast and the Owls Americast.

 

Social Media and General Negativity

 

Now this is a can of worms I'm still not sure I want to open. First of all I really really really want to stress that this isn't a case of me coming out and saying anyone who disagrees with me is 'negative'. Everyone is entitled to their opinion of course they are. Too often I think sometimes the lines between disagreement and actual negativity are blurred and I accept I've been guilty of this in the past. What I do find irritating is the major overeating to certain things. Pre Season results being one of them. For example of Saturday the team that finished 5th in La Liga beat us 3-1 at Hillsborough. Now if we did a direct comparison with the Premier League that would be Chelsea. Would we be complaining if Chelsea beat us 3-1? No I don't think so. I saw a comment the other day saying La Liga football is equivalent to mid table Championship football and that comment is utter nonsense. I've seen people going mental because we lost to Mansfield, yet said nothing when we beat Lincoln (who finished above Mansfield last season by the way). Surely if we are going to have these major overreactions they need to be both positive and negative? We've got to the point where any defeat or negative headline and there has to be a meltdown. That's not healthy, and despite what some people think it does transpire occasionally into the stands. A nonsense rumour spreads like wildfire on twitter and can find it's way to places it shouldn't. All I'm saying is can we not have a little bit more perspective? Can we not think before hitting send? If a player has a bad game tweeting them or sending them a message on Instagram giving them abuse won't do any good. Footballers are human beings as well.

Wednesday fans in full voice on the kop

 

Thanks for reading,

 

Tom

World Cup 2018: The Best World Cup Ever?

So there we have it, the World Cup has come to an end. I must say I have really enjoyed it. The goals, the moments of magic and madness and even the VAR. It's been a real spectacle and I have to say Russia 2018 might be my favourite World Cup. It's been the World Cup of penalties, set pieces and the rebirth of England's love affair with the beautiful game. As with most of my posts/blogs/rambles/whatever you want to call them. There's no great deal of structure or professionalism. Just the ramblings of someone who thinks he knows what he's talking about.

 

 

Russia 2018: How I saw it

I think like most people I before the tournament was fairly certain that we'd see a tournament of little surprises. Obviously there's always one or two that surprise you but I felt most of the established teams were strong enough to deal with the threats of the other nations simmering under the surface. Then Germany go out, Argentina make hard work of the group before being knocked out in the last 16, Spain and Portugal make like difficult for themselves from the off and both crash out at the same stage. Even the likes of Poland who maybe aren't the super power that the others are didn't do anything. It was fast becoming the tournament of the new blood. I imagine most people reading this will be aware of how the tournament panned out so I wont go over too much detail but I want to pick out a few matches that really stood out for me. Firstly Portugal 3 Spain 3, an electrifying draw on the banks of the black sea in Sochi. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat trick and Spain at times played some beautiful tiki taka football that had us all thinking it was 2010 again. It was a game to really ignite the World Cup and make everyone sit up and take notice. Germany 2 Sweden 1 (again in Sochi) gave us a stand out moment when Toni Kroos curled his free kick beautifully into the goal to keep the Germans alive. It was a moment that although meant nothing in the grand scheme of things was something to savour. Into the last 16 and France 4 Argentina 3 might be the best game I have seen in a long time. It was as good a football match as you will ever see and is one of those games where I can imagine a child watching and falling in love with football. It's the kind of game you'd want to run out and re create in the back garden or the park. Breath-taking goals and another stand out performance from Kylian Mbappe who in my opinion will go on to be the best player in the World. France have a gem of a player there and PSG must keep him from their point of view however I don't see them doing that beyond next summer. Overall I felt it was a fabulous display of football, even the games that didn't have a lot of goals still had a lot of talking points. VAR has been a major talking point and as someone who is a big fan of the idea I was interested to see how it would go. While there were always going to be slight problems I feel it has been a success. There will always be an element of human error (it's humans controlling the technology) the only way you eliminate that is by tightening up the rules so much and the powers that be aren't going to do that. Take the Neymar penalty against Costa Rica that was overturned, that was exactly what VAR was brought into clear up. CLEAR AND OBVOIUS ERRORS. Yeah there have been some that haven't been so clear and some that might appear clear that didn't go to a full review but I think more that they got more right than not and for a first tournament that is a success. It will get better, the fact of the matter is VAR is needed in the game but that's a debate for another blog. As for the rest of the tournament I think we ended up with the two best teams in the final. France to some maybe didn't quite entertain as much as expected but they won 6 of their 7 games and blew teams away in quick bursts. Pragmatic and deadly lead by Mbappe and Griezmann with the midfield shield of Kante and Pogba who in my opinion gets as much unfair stick as England's Raheem Sterling. While Croatia were the best team of the Group Stage and passed most test they faced, they just simply didn't have enough to deal with that kind of quality for 90 minutes. They were worthy runners up though, Gary Lineker used the phrase "Europe's version of Uruguay" and he was spot on. Overachievers for the size of country. I hope they kick on personally, although some in that team may be coming to the back end of their careers, they will have inspired a nation. France on the other hand will be hard to stop, the talent that didn't even go to Russia will be eager to join this bunch and earn their own recognition.

 

England

As someone who in all honesty doesn't care a great deal for the England team this World Cup has been interesting. I've seen the country lifted by football, England flags for a short time at least seen as a sign of pride rather than some sinister protest. Prior to the tournament it was 12 years since England had won a knockout game, they'd won 2 in 28 years since the Semi Final appearance of 1990 and had never won a penalty shootout. It was unrealistic to see England progressing as far as they did and all involved deserve immense credit. Gareth Southgate was seen as a 'yes man' appointment following the departure of Sam Allardyce. He's changed that image to a bright coach who's shaped a young England team playing to their strengths. They are far from the finished article but they have progressed further in a major competition than the teams of 02,04,06 and 10. Where plenty of world class talent was among the England team. Did the draw open up for them? Yes but you can only play who you are scheduled to. Could they have done things differently against Croatia in the Semi final? Yes but it's hard to be critical of them when most thought they'd be coming home much earlier. They got through the group with ease before a strange situation against Belgium where it was effectively a reserve game. Colombia offered a good test and the penalty curse was lifted. Southgate's celebrations after to me showed a man who'd exorcized his own personal penalty demon. Sweden was comfortable, never has an England knockout game looked and felt quite like that. Croatia were the best team England had faced at that point, Luka Modric is arguably the best football in the World at the moment. His 2nd half performance changed the balance and England found themselves out. A 4th place finish is great progression two years on from Iceland where I have to be honest in the aftermath of that game I doubted our capability to even reach this World Cup. I also doubted it 14 months ago after we snuck a draw against Scotland. Fair play England, onto Euro 2020.

 

Coverage

The final thing I'd like to touch upon is the coverage of this year's tournament. The BBC and ITV were once again the two who would transmit all 64 games between them across the UK and both I feel did a great job. I appreciate that to some this isn't important and as long as they can see the game it doesn't matter what channel it's on or who's offering an opinion. A good selection of pundits for both including impressive debuts for Cesc Fabregas, Didier Drogba and Pablo Zabaletta on the BBC. It was so good for Cesc he even came back after he'd officially finished. On ITV they'd added Gary Neville to their usual international team as well as the likes of Patrice Evra and Henrick Larson. Martin O'Neil as well added his usual wit and knowledge. One thing that has been in the news has been the addition of more female pundits and commentators. Why this is a debate in 2018 baffles me but I'll give my thoughts on it. You could have a trained monkey commentating on a game, if they know their stuff and can allow the view to enjoy the game then they are doing their job. I thought Vicki Sparks did well as the first woman to commentate on a game at the World Cup live and I hope more follow. As for the pundits, Eni Aluko was excellent on ITV, good research, well thought out opinions. She was one of the best on their. Put certain others to shame at times. On the BBC Alex Scott was in my opinion the best pundit for most of the games she covered. Again good research and informed opinions. As opposed to Phil Neville's "Shaqiri was a disgrace for Stoke last season" which was based on precisely sod all and lead many Stoke fans to rush to Twitter to defend their Swiss winger and call out Neville for his lazy punditry. We live in a world now where pundits can't just turn up and spout whatever. Phil Neville, Matt Upson and the grandmaster of boring, negative nonsense Mark Lawrenson, Along with Patrice Evra on ITV weren't good enough. It's a phrase often overused but I genuinely believe it, I could have done a better job than these mentioned. Long gone are the days of a pundit being able to spout whatever nonsense without being pulled up on it.

 

Thanks for reading,

 

Tom



 

World Cup 2018: A Preview and Prediction

My thoughts ahead of World Cup 2018

 

With not long to go now until the world's eyes are on Russia, I thought I'd offer my own thoughts on who I think will be the front runners, stand out sides and inevitable flops of the 21st edition of the World Cup. I'll go through each group briefly giving my prediction on which two teams will emerge from each and go through the knockout rounds with the aid of FIFA's very own World Cup predictor. I won't claim to know everything about every player from each side, I won't even claim to have all the answers. It's just an opinion.

 

Group A

  

We'll start with Group A. The hosts Russia are joined by Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay. Now regardless of ability or skill I honestly believe the hosts of any tournament always have an edge. Especially early on in the tournament. Some won't agree and that's absolutely fine. Russia aren't the side they once were in 2008 and probably won't make it through the group but they'll be backed by a huge support. They have a few decent players, the likes of Denis Cheryshev and Artem Dzyuba are familiar names plus keeper Igor Akinfeev. They will be resolute and steady and will provide a tough test for some of the more flair players in the group. Saudi Arabia will be hoping that they can capitalise on the hosts freezing and take a huge three points in the opening game. Only 2 of their squad play in Europe, that will no doubt be a small concern and recent changes in management there may hinder their chances. Egypt's hopes will no doubt all depend on the fitness of Mo Salah. An outstanding year for Liverpool with 32 Premier League goals and also helping his team reach the Champions League Final before leaving the field in Kiev with an injury. The instant fear was his World Cup was over before it had begun but reports suggest he will at least play one of the games. Logic dictates this will be the final group game against Saudi Arabia. Egypt may well need to win that to get through. Finally Luis Suarez and Uruguay will be hoping it's the Barcelona striker's feet that make the headlines and not his mouth (or teeth to be exact). Semi finalists in 2010 Uruguay present an interesting threat for the tournament. Not the strongest team but the favourite to win this group for certain. With Suarez and Cavani among their rank anything is possible.

 

My Prediction for Group A

1. Uruguay
2. Egypt
3. Russia
4. Saudi Arabia

Group B

 

  

Group B provides one of the clashes of the group stage with Spain meeting rivals Portugal. The Spanish seem to have put the disappointment of four years ago behind them and are fancied to go far. Euro 2016 was an odd tournament for them. Promising in the group stage they were beaten by Italy in a great tactical battle. A new manager has seen Spain return ready to have a crack at winning a 2nd World Cup. Familiar names litter the squad with Iniesta, Ramos, Busquets and Pique all looking for major tournament number 4. Portugal come into this World Cup having won the Euros two years ago. They have always threatened without quite realising the dream at the World Cup and will be hoping the same spirit can match the talent throughout the team. Cristiano Ronaldo will be looking to add the World Cup to his collection of silverware. Morocco provide an interesting prospect and with familiar names among the squad are no pushovers. Unlikely to get out of the group but a decent side none the less and Iran taking part in another world cup will also be a tough test no to be taken lightly. Another side with some ex Premier League names among the squad.

 

My Prediction for Group B

1. Spain
2. Portugal
3. Morocco
4. Iran

Group C

Group C sees one of the early favourites France take on Denmark, Australia and Peru. The French will be hoping to banish Euro 2016 final defeat from their minds in Russia. With a squad the envy of a lot of teams it's hard not to see them reaching the latter stages. Antoine Griezmann is the superstar but around him is a team littered with trophies. Denmark lead by talismanic Tottenham star Christian Eriksen will be a solid challenger to France in the group. Australia have become a solid qualifier but have flattered to deceive. Tim Cahil still being the stand out attraction at 38 years old tells it's own story. Peru arrive back at the World Cup after a 36 year absence and will have that free abandon that the likes of 2002 South Korea (ok yeah they were co hosts) and 2010 Uruguay had. No expectation.

 

My Prediction for Group C

 

1. France
2. Denmark
3. Australia
4. Peru

Group D

Similarly to Group C, Group D provides one outstanding team and three that could follow them through. Argentina lead by the man many consider the best of the modern age and the best possibly ever. Lionel Messi has it all, except a World Cup. If he is to push aside the critics in his homeland he needs to lift that trophy in a months time. It's not all on him, Higuain, Dybala and Aguero make up La Albiceleste's attack. It's a mouth-watering list when you think about it. It's hard to envisage a scenario where they don't win this group. Iceland make their World Cup debut two years after impressing at the Euros. For what it's worth, no bitter England comments from me. Iceland have been building for years and could actually have been in Brazil only to be thwarted in the play offs. It might be a tough ask to get through the group but rest assured if they do don't underestimate them. Croatia for years have threatened to really do something at a World Cup, this group of players is talented and with Real Madrid's midfield maestro Luka Modric pulling the strings you can be sure of chances being created. Nigeria make up the group and the super eagles may represent Africa's best chances of that illusive world cup winner. Several familiar names are in the squad and it's fair to say there is quality throughout it. A tough test for anyone who will face them.

 

My Prediction for Group D

 

1. Argentina
2. Croatia
3. Iceland
4. Nigeria

 

Group E

Group E sees Brazil one of the tournament favourites face Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica. The five time world champions will be eager to add a sixth crown after missing the opportunity to do so in their own back yard. I felt very sorry for them watching that 7-1 defeat to Germany. I wanted them to win that world cup. The World Cup needs Brazil, their exciting football and iconic yellow shirts are what the world cup is all about. This bunch of players has the capability to win it that much is for sure. Can they live up to the billing is another matter. Firmino, Jesus, Neymar, Coutinho, take your pick of who will be the star man. Switzerland offer a tough test, a strong side who showed flashes of quality at both the World Cup in 2014 and Euro 2016 but now possibly it's time to go one better. They've been high in the rankings for a long time now and with players such as Breel Embolo and Xherdan Shaqiri there is a hope they can do something. Serbia missed the last three major tournaments but are back now and will hope they can impress. A lot will depend on the form of Newcastle/Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic and look out for Benfica's Luka Jovic as well. Costa Rica were arguably the story of the 2014 tournament, predicted to finish bottom of the group in 2014 they won it, knocking Italy and England out in doing so. It will be a tough ask to repeat that but never say never

 

My Prediction for Group E

 

1. Brazil
2. Switzerland
3. Serbia
4. Costa Rica

 

Group F

Group F throws up another likely interesting tussle for 2nd spot. Of course Germany are the holders and favourites to take the crown again. They have it all, strength in depth, excellent management, play decent football and have a ruthless will to win and belief. It's difficult not to envisage them picking up that trophy. Alongside them in the group are perennial qualifiers Mexico. There's something about Mexico that I really like. They always seem to be in games and have got through the group in each of the last 6 World Cups. I personally would enjoy seeing them go on and get a bit further this time around. They have a good squad, maybe now is there time. Sweden come into the World Cup after a 12 year absence and without Zlatan Ibrahimovic represent a slightly different prospect than with him. Still it's a good team packed with solid players, if not outstanding in quality it's still got plenty of experience. South Korea round off the group and this will be their 9th World Cup finals in a row. A great achievement already and will be keen to show their own quality. Son Heung-min is the star man in a team that on it's day can beat the big boys.

 

My Prediction for Group F

 

1. Germany
2. Mexico
3. Sweden
4. South Korea

 

Group G

Group G brings us to England's group. My attitude to the England national team over the last few years has gone from a mild interest with scepticism to almost completely no interest with a feeling of I'd rather watch almost anyone else. Don't get me wrong I want England to do well and I do actually like Gareth Southgate as a man. He's shown some qualities that we have lacked where he has brought younger players into the team and has also insisted on the joined up thinking between U21 level and below and senior level. These are all positive steps in the right direction. As for the present team, England are simply not in that top level of teams anymore and the aim of winning this world cup is vastly beyond them. Belgium will be the favourites for the group and a lot has been made of their golden generation. A talented squad with several players who play in England will make for an interesting last group game for both, a likely decider for first place. Panama will like the likes of Iceland, Iran and Peru no real expectation. Tunisia are not a side to be taken lightly, they will provide a decent test for England's opener.

 

My Prediction for Group G

 

1. Belgium
2. England
3. Tunisia
4. Panama

 

Group H

The final group gives us in my opinion one of the most intriguing. A fairly even group and a good mix of countries from different parts of the globe. Colombia will go into it as slight favourites. They were one of the stories of 2014 and with James Rodriguez they have a player who can change a game in the blink of an eye. Poland also have an outstanding talent who plies his trade at Bayern Munich. Robert Lewandowski scores goals for fun and may just be the difference for Poland in the group and possibly beyond. I was pleased to see Senegal qualify, I have fond memories of 2002 where they shocked France in their opener. It's good to see them back and with a strong side with star man Sadio Mane coming off the back of another great season, they will be ones to watch. Finally rounding off the group is Japan, a side you always feel is capable of something. They've become a main stay of qualification and will be hoping to go one better than last time around in Brazil.

 

My Prediction for Group H

 

1. Colombia
2. Poland
3. Senegal
4. Japan

Knockout Stages



The good thing about the World Cup is the fact the structure allows you to actually make a full prediction. Even with the Euros now you need to know who will finish 3rd and then work out who they will play which can take forever. From my group predictions it gives us these last 16 ties with the side I think will progress written next to them;

Uruguay V Portugal -Portugal

France V Croatia -France

Brazil V Mexico -Brazil

Belgium Poland -Belgium

Spain V Egypt Spain

Argentina v Denmark -Argentina

Germany V Switzerland -Germany

Colombia V England -England

 

This leaves a quarter final line up of;

Portugal V France -France

Brazil V Belgium -Brazil

Spain V Argentina -Spain

Germany V England -Germany

 

This would set up these semi finals;

France V Brazil -Brazil

Spain V Germany -Germany

 

So the World Cup third place play off would see;

France V Spain -France

 

Leaving the showpiece itself a re run of the semi four years ago.

Brazil V Germany -Germany

 

A German win in my opinion is on the cards again.

It may sound like a boring prediction but it's the one I'm going with. Germany had it all, a good manager, a squad packed with talent, a winning mentality and crucially winning experience. Not only the World Cup four years ago but the confederations cup and U21 Euros last summer as well. It's difficult to find any faults. Possible over confidence maybe but aside from that nothing.

 

 

 

The Golden Boot, Player of the Tournament and Ones to watch.

Predicting the golden boot winner is always difficult, there are so many options. Ronaldo, Messi, Aguero, Suarez and Muller. All of which are good options however slightly left field I'm going to say Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus. After a season where he's been part of a record breaking City side he comes into the World Cup in decent form. His record of 9 goals in 15 games for Brazil is impressive and given I've predicted his side will be runners up there's a good chance he'll play a fair bit. As for the overall player of the tournament I'll say Germany's Toni Kroos. A mainstay of Real Madrid's European conquering of the last few years, Kroos is arguably the best midfielder in the World at the moment and what better way than to seal that crown than winning the World Cup. Names to look out for, Serbia's Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has been attracting a lot of attention recently. Germany's Timo Werner is coming into the World Cup after two very good season's for RP Leipzig. Denmark's Pione Sisto and Kasper Dolberg both catch the eye, the Danes are one of a number of teams with dark hoarse qualities. All in all it should be a very good tournament and a good watch.

 

Thanks for reading

 

Tom 

 

 

 

Sheffield Wednesday Season Review 2017/18

As the curtain comes down on another season lets take a look back over the campaign. The highs and lows of what has been a frustrating season for all connected with Sheffield Wednesday.

 

A Frustrating Year

I'll be honest, I've been looking forward to sitting down to write this for a while because that means the season is over and we can look forward. It's fair to say I don't think many of us will want to remember 2017/18 too fondly though there are some positives to take from it and we will get into those later on. It's been a year where we have fallen well short of early season expectations. After two years of play off challenging near misses we have finished 15th. Some particularly bad results and long periods without winning have been tough to take. I don't think I need to bore anyone who is reading this with in depth analysis of each game and try and explain how some of those results happen as it's largely pointless. A change of manager in December and an injury crisis the like of which is probably the worst in the history of the club made the 150th year of this great club a tough one to watch.

 

 

Carlos Carvalhal's departure: Was it the right decision?

To answer the questions straight from the off, yes. It was the right decision and I say that as a big Carlos fan. Whatever your opinion of Carlos the one stat you have to look at is in his last 16 games as manager of Sheffield Wednesday we won just 3 of them. 3 wins. For a team with expectations of challenging for the top two that is not good enough. The mood around the club was toxic, the fans had lost patience with the manager and in my time I can't remember a manager losing the fans in that manner and ever keeping his job. The defeat in September to Sheffield United made it an almost impossible task as there was no room for error. Of course it isn't all on one man but so often in football the manager is always the first to fall. The fact that we were effectively out of the conversation for automatic promotion by early October after losing at Bolton who hadn't won a game in the league all season and out of the play off race by mid December after a disastrous 3-1 defeat to Norwich who hadn't won at home for three months. meant something had to change.

 

 Jos Luhukay

So after the exit of charismatic Carlos came the softly spoken Dutchman Jos Luhukay. Thrown into the heat of a Steel City Derby in his first game it was fair to say Jos had a rather unique start to life in Sheffield. When he came in from my point of view the only expectation I had was to keep the club in the division for next season. Considering he didn't have players such as Hooper, Forestieri, Lee, Bannan, Lees, Westwood and Fletcher available along with others when he arrived. He had a tough start with three games against at the time top 6 sides and also had to deal with the FA Cup with a patched together squad. It's been well documented he's brought through several youth team players from the Under 23's which is something Wednesday haven't done well enough for a long time. He changed the familiar 4-4-2 to a 5-3-2 and it's worked. He's given certain players a new lease of life which has in not only kept Wednesday up but allowed the fans to start to look more positively towards next season.

 

 What does Jos have to do?



The simple answer here is keep going. Keep this gradual progression going. In the last eight games of the season only Fulham had picked up more points that Wednesday. Since winning at Elland Road in March Wednesday have been fantastic. It's helped that the likes of Tom Lees, Barry Bannan and Fernando Forestieri have all returned from long term injuries. I've said many times about Forestieri and will keep saying it. The man is one of the best players in the division. He can change games in the blink of an eye. He's a supremely talented footballer who we must do everything to keep fit for 46 games next season. Barry Bannan has been immense on return as well. Not just his passing and his ability to pick people out but his all round tenacity and his determination makes him a fans favourite and rightly so. We missed him so much throughout his time of the side-lines and like Fernando we must keep him and keep him fit. We can't afford to lose him as I don't see how you would replace him. Added to all that it would be remiss of me not to mention a couple of unsung hero's of the recent revival. Daniel Pudil rewarded for his efforts this season with a new contract has been fantastic. In a back three he's able to do what he's good at with assurances from the other two centre halves. He's a player with vast experience at this level and it's important we have players who know what it takes to succeed at this level. Joey Pelupessy arrived as out only January recruit and in my opinion has been fantastic. A bright character he catches the eye with his pressing and tackling, he can pick a pass as well and I believe with a full pre season with the club and with the few months of English football he has picked up since arriving under his belt he will grow into a fine player for Sheffield Wednesday. Despite only being here since January he seems to have fitted in nicely with the squad and always seems to be one of the players desperate to celebrate with the fans. A mention as well must go to the two young keepers Joe Widlsmith (not unsung by any stretch of the imagination) and Cameron Dawson who have both been excellent. Both Sheffield lads who both support the club as well makes it impossible not to want the lads to do well. Both have great qualities as well and credit must once again go to Andy Rhodes for his good work in their development.

 

This division is unforgiving and will be just as so next season. While this year's competition has been competitive I don't feel the quality has been there of the last few years. That isn't to belittle the achievements of the likes of Wolves and Cardiff or teams who have had good seasons like Millwall (Neil Harris manager of the year for me) Preston or Sheffield United it's just the view of someone who has seen his team play at this level for the majority of his time watching football. Next year will be tough but not impossible. Building blocks are in place.

 

 Injuries

I'll be honest, I don't want to talk too much about injuries because it falls on deaf ears quite a lot of the time. The fact of the matter is injuries are not the reason we didn't get promoted or finish in the top six but they are the reason we were dragged into the periphery of the relegation battle. I tried to have this conversation with a Sheffield United fan a few weeks ago and as soon as the word injuries go brought up there was a roll of the eyes and the usual "every club has injuries". Now this statement is true every club will at some point throughout the season have to deal with injuries however does every club lose the core of a team that has finished 6th and 4th to longer term injuries? I'm not so sure. Anybody who's watched Wednesday this season can tell you the difference when certain players have been in the team. Bannan for example, Kieran Lee not being available for so long has meant we've missed something in the midfield that not many players can provide. Last season you could say injuries had an impact as we lost players at key times but ultimately we couldn't blame them as a major reason for underachievement. This year there no doubt they have played a major part in why we haven't been able to mount a 2nd half of the season challenge. I've felt massively for Jos because it's been hard for him to implement his ideas while dealing with the injury crisis. I bet there were times in the first few months where Jos went home to wherever he is living in Sheffield, sat down and thought "Why on earth did I take this job?". I remember back in December when we played Wolves at home and before the game me and my dad were sat in the car listening to BBC Radio Sheffield's Football Heaven and Rob Staton read out the list of players unavailable for the game and anyone who'd tuned in halfway through would have been forgiven for thinking he was reading out the team for the game.

 

 The boy from Boro, the Kosovan King and the rejuvenated Joao

Sheffield Wednesday's 2018 Player of the Season Adam Reach

I've deliberately not mentioned three players throughout this piece. Three players who we have been so important for different reasons. The first of these is Adam Reach. Adam who arrived for a then record transfer fee for Sheffield Wednesday has been fantastic this season. I was a big admirer of his from before his time here when he was at Middlesbrough and then Preston North End during his loan spell in 2015/16. He's played in nearly every position for us which considering he's only been here since August 2016 is some achievement. His endless running is to be admired as well as his leadership qualities which have been needed this season. He's added goals to his game which has been a huge plus and lets be fair there have been some belters in there. Aston Villa away especially, to try that after just 20 odd seconds is something special. The 2018 Sheffield Wednesday player of the year and richly deserved. Keep it up Adam.

 

 

There are few players that split opinion more than Atdhe Nuhiu. Anyone who knows me knows I have always been a huge fan of him. Tall, strong, good touch and gives 100%. What's not to like? A lot of his critics will come back with, 'he's a striker and he doesn't score many goals.' Well for the 2nd time in his time at Sheffield Wednesday he's finished top goalscorer. Under Carlos Carvalhal he had a slightly different role where he was more a foil for others rather than the main focal point himself and even in this role I feel he was vastly underappreciated. Regardless of whether you like him or not the facts are his goals along with others have kept us up and we've been able to lean on him for the last few months. Added to all that the fact on Sunday he became the first player for 17&half years to score a hat trick in the 2nd tier for Sheffield Wednesday and the first to score one at all since November 2010 is something for him to savour. He has a role to play in this team going forward should he choose to stay. I would be sad to see him leave, he's a cult hero similar to player such as Reda Johnson Jose Semedo and Miguel Llera. Men who haven't grown up here but have gained an understanding of this club in a similar way to the fans. If Sunday was his farewell (at the time of writing he hasn't signed a new deal) then what a way to bow out.

 

Lucas Joao's re-emergence is also something to be admired. Joao who spent the 2nd half of last season at Blackburn was probably 5th/6th choice striker upon his return. His reappearance in the derby back in September was a surprise and for a brief moment was a devastating success. Scoring a lovely goal it's a shame it didn't lead to more than a distant memory. For me Joao has everything he needs to go on and be a success. Big, strong, physical, good feet, skill, pace and his partnership with Atdhe Nuhiu has delivered a hatful of goals. He scores all different types of goals as well, throughout his Sheffield Wednesday career he has delivered with headers, curled shots, placed shots and powerful ones as well. A trait that is very useful. I believe working with Nuhiu has massively helped him grow and hopefully it continues. There was a lot of excitement when he arrived and I hope there's a lot more to come from him.

 

 The departing captain and the mercurial winger

It's always a strange this to see long serving players leave. Glenn Loovens signed for Sheffield Wednesday amid a really tough period. 1 win in 16 games. He actually put pen to paper under Dave Jones but made his debut under Stuart Gray in a 2-1 over Leicester. From there on it he became a vital part of a defence which prior to his arrival had been chopped and changed from week to week. His leadership and calmness under pressure made him an obvious choice to become captain in the summer of 2014 and from there on in he remained. I can remember many a good display from him and was a key part of a record equalling defence. His presence around the club will be missed. Sunday was an emotional day for him I'm sure and it was a fitting send off that on 44 minutes he came off to a standing ovation and not only the fans clapping him off but his team mates as well. I wish him all the best in whatever he goes on to do next.

 

The other departing player on Sunday was Ross Wallace, another experienced head with more than a few tricks up his sleeve. Scorer of important goals and assister of important goals. Wallace has arguably rivalled Forestieri for the 'Most important moment of the last few years' award (just rolls of the tongue that one). He's been a fantastic signing, the two goals against Brighton in the Play Offs in 2016 were fantastic, his goal against Arsenal was wonderful, his goal down at Fulham was quite simply outrageous. He's a fantastic character (who can forget nicking the note from Huddersfield's Elias Kachunga) and you could see it meant a lot to him on Sunday with hordes of fans wanting photos and signatures. Like Loovens I wish Ross all the best in wherever he goes next. Whoever gets him is getting a fabulous player and a great character. Good luck Rosco.

 



Glenn Loovens and Ross Wallace with Owls Chairman Dejphon Chansiri

 A nod to the Chairman

During what has been a difficult season Dejphon Chansiri has taken a lot of criticism. Now criticism itself isn't a bad thing provided it's done in a respectful and constructive manner. Let's not forget this man has put his own money into this club and has only ever wanted to do the best for it and it's fans. Some of the things that have been said about him have been very unfair and I hope he realises that the majority of fans are very much behind him and appreciate his efforts. His decision to bring in former Charlton Atheltic CEO Katrien Meire in a similar position at Hillsborough caused some debate and I was one of those who was critical and while it's only been a short while it appears to have not been a bad appointment. Small changes that have been made at the club since her arrival have no doubt been partly down to her. It's been good to see her at games and getting involved in things like the kids fun day at Easter. I hope she's a huge success for years to come. I still and always have believed that Dejphon Chansiri only wants to do the best for the club and when things have gone wrong he has fronted up and explained why. Some fans who have wanted him out have short memories, lets not forget we were crying out for someone like him. Has he made some mistakes? Yeah, but who hasn't, nobody is perfect and he'll be a much better chairman for dealing with a season like this than before.

 

 

If you've made it this far, thanks very much for reading. Let's hope for a better season next year.

 

WAWAW

 

Tom.



Steel City Derby Preview: Can the Owls cause an upset at the Lane?

So here we are again, a few days away from the big one, the game that means pretty much everything in Sheffield. Red against blue, Blades against Owls, Captain Blade against Ozzie and Barney Owl. However you wish to portray it, this is the game to watch in this city.

Back in September when I sat down to write a preview of the game at Hillsborough I like a lot of Wednesday fans was fair confidant of an Owls win. With good reason given we were on a fairly decent run in the league and players were looking something like their previous versions of the past two seasons. Unfortunately as we all know it turned into a disaster. It was fairly shambolic baring the 20 minute spell at the beginning of the 2nd half before we decided to kindly hand any initiative we had back to United. Let's not dwell on that though, let's look forward to Friday night.

Jos Luhukay

 

As we all know Wednesday appointed Jos Luhukay as manager last Friday and his first game will be the Derby clash at Bramall Lane. Now a lot of people have said that it's a terrible first game for him, while I understand the reasons behind that and argument and respect the points being made I disagree. I actually think it's a great game for him, if we lose well we were expected to. If we win it he get's a major boost in support and the fans confidence around him will be increased tenfold. How many Wednesday managers could walk into their first home game with a Derby win under his belt already? What feather in his cap that would be. I'm not saying it will be easy, it wont but going in with the attitude of "this could be 5 or 6" is just daft. Let's not forget United aren't exactly in great form themselves. I'll come onto that later but as for Luhukay it's virtually no lose for him. I can't see him making loads of changes from what we've been seeing over the last few weeks as quite frankly there isn't a lot he can do due to the amount of bodies in the treatment room at the moment.

 

The Game Itself

 

As for the match itself Wednesday come into it bottom of the form table, hardly ideal but this is a derby and anything can happen. I will point out that in previous derbies, 2012 for example we were in torrid form and look what happened there. United as of writing have made three signings in the last two days and we have depending on how you look at it 10 first team players out injured. A lot of predictions that I have already seen have United to win by a few clear goals but football doesn't work like that. As threadbare as the squad is at the moment we still have players of quality that can influence the game. Under the lights at Bramall Lane might just bring out the best in one or two of the players and give them a chance to give something back to the fans after a dismal campaign so far. In terms of form as I've already mentioned we're not exactly flying high and neither are the blades. Since winning at Burton and going top of the table they have only won once in the league at home to Sunderland, defeats at Millwall, Preston and at home to Bolton and Fulham have dented the promotion push. They are not the immoveable object that they have been portrayed. Not to say they don't deserve credit for the season they're having of course they do but beatable.

 

Prediction

 

From my point of view I'd take a point, we can win it and if we do then the players will deserve credit for doing so. If we play to the capabilities of the Forest performance on Boxing day we have a damn good chance. If we turn up like we did at Brentford and at home to Burton then we'll struggle to get a point. Tactically I have little to no idea how we will line up in terms of a system. Some have suggested Luhukay is a 4-2-3-1 man which would make sense. It's a system that has worked at Wednesday in the past. I'll say an optimistic 1-0 win in favour of Wednesday. Keeping it tight and taking a chance. I'd love someone like Jordan Rhodes to score it, really give him a boost of confidence and win over some of the doubters.

 

So that's my opinion on this Friday's game, regardless of line up or whatever else, let's get behind them and regardless of what happens on Friday stay behind them for the rest of the campaign. The players need the fans at the moment. Let's hope the lads can deliver only our 2nd win at Bramall Lane since 1967.

 

Thanks for reading,

 

Tom

My brief thoughts on Carlos Carvalhal

As we sit on the eve of Christmas Sheffield Wednesday are contemplating a new era after today parting ways with Carlos Carvalhal. I wasn't going to write this but having thought about it for the last hour or so I feel I should. I think it's right I put to words my thoughts on his departure.

 

A lot has been said and written about Carlos and firstly I want to say he has handled himself with tremendous class and dignity since he walked through the door at S6. He took to Sheffield quickly and became very much one of us. He quickly gaged what the fan base was about and realised the potential of out club. That first season was fabulous, there were so many highs, the obvious 3-0 win over Arsenal, the play off semi finals against Brighton, beating Cardiff in the penultimate game of the season to seal 6th spot. I could go on, last season despite some moans and groans, we got better, we won more games and finished higher and truly believed back in the summer we could kick on. Why didn't we? There are many reasons and at 9PM on Christmas eve I can't say I can be bothered to go into them. It's for another day. Overall Carlos' time has come to an end, the atmosphere at the end of yesterday's clash with Middlesbrough was pretty bleak. The boos and calls for Carlos to go was tough to hear to be honest. I personally said he should have gone after Norwich, not that I think changing the manager would have made a major difference to the season but just to try and change something and lift some of the apathy that is around the club at the moment. You could argue he could have gone before that and yeah maybe but for me it was after that game down at Carrow Road. Quite a few have said he should have gone in May after the play offs and I can see the arguments for that however I'm pleased we at least gave Carlos a chance, I'm pleased we rewarded relative success from his first two seasons.

 

As for who takes over that's for Mr Chansiri and others to handle, there are a few names floating about. Some interesting some definite ones to stay away from. All I'll say is I hope whoever it is get's the 100% backing from our fans, we can't afford to become a club that goes through managers season after season. I'd prefer it to be done relatively quickly but If we must wait for the right man then so be it.

 

Finally I'd just like to once again thank Carlos for his hard work, dedication and the footballing memories he brought. I'll miss him, I hope in time he'll be remembered as fondly as he should. The only negative is it didn't quite end the way we all wanted it to.

 

Thanks Carlos, all the best.

 

Thanks for reading

 

Tom