Last Updated By…
Andy on 08/08
Updated: Arsenal, Birmingham, Blackburn, Blackpool, Everton, Fulham, Man City, Newcastle, Sunderland, Spurs, West Brom, West Ham, Wigan, Wolves
Arsenal
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 17 vs Barnet 4-0 – Arshavin, Simpson (2), Nasri |
| July 21 vs Sturm Graz 3-0 – Nasri (2), Lansbury |
| July 27 vs Neusiedl 1919 4-0 – Walcott, Emmanuel-Thomas, Chamakh, Vela |
| July 31 vs AC Milan 1-1 – Chamakh |
| August 1 vs Celtic 3-2 – Vela, Sagna, Nasri |
| August 7 vs Legia Warsaw 6-5 – Chamakh, Eboue (2), Gibbs, Emmanuel-Thomas, Nasri |
Team News:
Arsenal’s annual pre-season trip to Barnet saw they ease to a 4-0 win in which Wenger handed debuts to new signings Laurent Koscielny and Marouane Chamakh. Andrey Arshavin’s class was too much for Barnet throughout the game as the Russian began the pre-season in confident form. Jay Simpson did himself no harm with a brace whilst Luke Wilshire earned two assists from midfield. Manuel Almunia’s absence from the game was explained by Arsene Wenger as due to illness, despite reports questioning the Spaniard’s future at the Emirates.
The meet with Sturm Graz was a step in class when it comes to the standard of opponent but Wenger’s side had little trouble disposing of them with ease. Samir Nasri, playing in a free role behind the lone striker Chamakh, was the star of the show – netting a brace including a beautifully flighted free-kick.
Nasri was pulling the strings once more against Neusiedl as he continued to play just behind the striker in the ‘Cesc role’. Four goals were forthcoming with Nasri setting up Walcott, Gibbs getting to the byline to provide for Emmanuel-Thomas, Vela scoring a lob (his favoured kind of goal) and Marouanne Chamakh getting his first Arsenal goal by converting a penalty he had earned. A day later Arsenal retained the Emirates Cup with a 3-2 win over Celtic. Jack Wilshere was heralded as man of the match here although Nasri again caught the eye with his fourth pre-season goal.
Arsenal finished off their pre-season preparations with a trip to Poland which resulted in a rock’em sock’em contest that ended 6-5 in their favour against Legia Warsaw. Unsurprisingly, having conceded 5 goals, Arsenal weren’t the most solid at the back and were caught out a variety of ways – Fabianski again under-performing against his old club. One the offensive side Nasri had a good day rounded out with a free-kick sixth goal, Marouanne Chamakh got a good header in from one of Nasri’s balls, Emmanuel Eboue scored two, youngster Jay Emmanuel-Thomas scored another -nearly finished- and Kieran Gibbs fired in a belter from just inside the box. Good on the goal front, bad on the defending front.
Most Recent Lineup vs Legia Warsaw:
Fabianski (Szczesny 46), Sagna (Nordtveit 79), Vermaelen, Koscielny, Clichy, Frimpong (Gibbs 46), Wilshere (Lansbury 72), Nasri, Rosicky (Eboue 46), Walcott (Vela 46), Chamakh (Emmanuel-Thomas 72)
Form Players: Andrey Arshavin, Samir Nasri, Marouanne Chamakh
Aston Villa
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 18 vs Basingstoke 1-2 – Burke |
| July 19 vs Peterborough 3-2 – A Young, Carew, Lichaj |
| July 24 vs Bohemians 1-2 – Carew |
| July 27 vs Walsall 2-1 – Weimann (2) |
| July 31 vs Feyenoord 3-1 – Albrighton, Heskey, Sidwell |
| August 1 vs Benfica 1-4 – Carew |
| August 6 vs Valencia 0-0 |
Team News:
A distinctly youthful Aston Villa team were only the second side to lose a pre-season friendly so far this summer. Basingstoke took a two goal lead going into the second half – despite the defence being the most recognised part of this Villa lineup – and it was left to young substitute Graham Burke to grab a consolation goal a couple of minutes from time.
The tide was turned the following day when a strong Villa side overcame Peterborough in a hum-dinger of a game full of goals. Ashley Young was employed in the position of support striker and opened the scoring on 20 minutes when he chipped the Boro keeper on 20 minutes. Marc Albrighton showed no signs of fatigue as he played his second game in two days carving open the Peterborough defence to allow Ashley Young to supply John Carew for Villa’s second, with a backheel of all things. The last goal came courtesy of Eric Lichaj who headed in a Downing corner at the far post.
The 2-1 defeat against Bohemians again saw O’Neill opt to start with Agbonlahor as a lone striker with Ashley Young employed in a support role behind him. Albrighton and Dowing took up the wide roles and it was Albrighton who caught the eye in the first half. He then went on to beat his full-back and provide the cross for sub John Carew to net the Villa goal.
James Collins went into the friendly against Walsall carrying a slight knock and, unfortunately, paid the price for doing so having picked up a calf injury in the process. The centre-back was subbed in the opening stages of Villa’s victory and has a scan booked to judge the state of the injury. Youngster Adam Weimann scored both goals in the 2-1 win a drew praise from the manager alongside Marc Albrighton for their performances.
Villa’s Guadiana Cup experience brought mixed results with a fine 3-1 win over Feyenoord somewhat overshadowed by a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Benfica. Albrighton was again the star of the show against Feyenoord as he continued to stake his claim for a starting role come the season kick-off with a fine goal and impressive peformance out wide. Albrighton was kept a lot quieter a day later against Benfica as O’Neill’s slide slipped to a demoralising defeat to the Guadiana Cup holders. The result was capped by worrying injuries to Ashley Young and Carlos Cuellar.
The pre-season preparations ended with a goalless draw for O’Neill’s team. Youngster Albrighton impressed once more and certainly made a claim for being good enough for Premier League appearances, now we just have to see if the managers rewards the wingers summer output.
Most Recent Lineup vs Valencia:
Friedel (Guzan 63), Beye, Clark (Lowry 82), Dunne (Warnock 45), L Young (Lichaj 73), Albrighton (Delfouneso 63), Petrov (Sidwell 63), Reo-Coker (Salifou 82), Downing, A Young (Weimann 73), Carew (Heskey 45).
Form Players: Marc Albrighton, John Carew, Ashley Young
Birmingham City
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 18 vs Hong Kong 3-2 – Dann, Gardner, O’Connor |
| July 21 vs Beijing Guoan 1-0 – O’Connor |
| July 24 vs Liaoning Hongyun 2-0 – O’Connor, Larsson |
| August 3 vs MK Dons 3-2 – Jerome (2), O’Connor |
| August 7 vs Mallorca 0-1 |
Team News:
Alex McCleish’s side began their summer tour of China with a hard fought victory over Hong Kong XI having to fight back and steal victory in the closing minutes. Scott Dann once more got his head on the end of a Seb Larsson corner and Craig Gardner did Mutch of the same (get it?) by heading in a boxward cross. New signing Nikola Zigic managed to make a mark in his first appearance for the blues as he flicked the ball towards Gary O’Connor to fire home for the win.
Just days later it was O’Connor who once more snatched a late goal, this time against Beijing, to lead Birmingham to a slender 1-0 victory after forcing home a rebounded Cameron Jerome shot. Once more Zigic was in amongst the action his first half appearance, using every one of his 68 inch frame he rose above the defence but could only head against the crossbar and another turn and shot was but yard wide of the post.
Birmingham’s third victory of their tour of China came against Liaoning Whowin and once again Garry O’Connor was on the mark for McLeish’s men. His partnership with Zigic is flourishing in pre-season and it was the big Serb who provided the assist for his goal on 18 minutes of this game. Seb Larsson notched the second from a Gardner through-ball.
Birmingham finished their build up to the season with their first defeat of the summer, in a game against Real Mallorca. Ben Foster made their first appearances in front of the St Andrew’s crowd with the goalkeeper making a couple of notable saves and Zigic unfortunate not to score once more. Roger Johnson went the closest with his header ricocheting off the crossbar.
Most Recent Lineup vs Real Mallorca:
Foster; Gardner, Ridgewell, Johnson, Dann (Murphy 46); Larsson (McFadden 69), Ferguson (Mutch 74), Michel (Valles 68), Fahey (Bowyer 46); O’Connor (Zigic 46), Jerome (Phillips 74)
Form Players: Garry O’Connor, Nikola Zigic, Craig Gardner
Blackburn Rovers
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 10 vs Sturm Graz 0:0 |
| July 17 vs Fleetwood Town 2-0 – Roberts, NZonzi |
| July 17 vs Southport 3-0 – Chimbonda, Rigters, Dunn |
| July 20 vs Preston North End 0-3 |
| July 21 vs Huddersfield Town 0-1 |
| July 25 vs Rangers 1-2 – Dunn |
| July 28 vs AEK Athens 1-2 – Jones |
| July 31 vs Sydney FC 2-1 – Emerton, Pedersen |
| August 7 vs Hearts 1-1 – M. Diouf |
| August 8 vs Celtic 2-1 – Dunn, Judge |
Team News:
Significantly Sam Allardyce started with a 3-5-2 in the 0-0 draw with Sturm Graz with Jones, Samba and Givet lining up a centre-backs. That could be a clear sign of intent for the new season as Big Sam looks to solve the problem of having Jones, Samba and Nelsen available to him as quality options in central defence. That could see both Chimbonda and Olsson used as wing-backs. Dunn started the Strum Graz game and was immediately influential from set-plays. He might be given greater freedom to attack from midfield should the 3-5-2 be carried through to the season kick-off. Rovers shifted to a 4-4-2 eventually in the Sturm Graz game but only after Chris Samba suffered a knee injury and was forced off.
The two friendlies against Fleetwood and Southport offered a few further clues to Sam Allardyce’s thinking with a 3-5-2 formation again the order of the day for in the win at Southport. David Dunn was employed a lone striker Marco Rigters and he capped the win with a stunning 45-yard effort.
The 3-5-2 continued once more in a trip to Deepdale, but the success did not. A strong Rovers lineup was felled by three Preston goals. To make matters worse Martin Olsson picked up an injury, limping off after just 19 minutes.
Twenty-four hours later Blackburn again slipped to defeat, this time at Huddersfield Town to a single Joey Gudjonsson goal. Rovers fielded a very understrength side in this one with Khizanishvili, Dioiuf and trialist Teymourian the only names with any real Premier League experience. Again however, Rovers lined up in a 3-5-2.
A tour of Australia followed and from three games (against Rangers, AEK Athens and Sydney FC) Blackburn head back to England with only one victory and no more clean sheets. Blackburn started slowly in their first two matches with consolations from a David Dunn penalty and youngster Phil Jones. It was then a case of third time lucky as Brett Emerton fired home from an N’Zonzi flick and Morten Gamst Pedersen bundled home a secon for Blackburn to secure victory over Sydney.
Blackburn’s traveled north of the border for a game against Hearts, and it proved to be a worthy excercise as they walked away with a 1-1 draw and a new name on the scoresheet. Mame Diouf, who had signed on loan from Manchester United not long before the game, introduced himself to the rest of the team when he was that name. A day later a second Blackburn side faced off against Celtic and won 2-1 with a 25 yard David Dunn free-kick and a Alan Judge finish from the edge of the box.
Lineup vs Hearts:
Bunn (Brown 61), Jacobsen, Olsson, Samba (Givet 73), Nelsen, Nzonzi (Linganzi 64), Hoilett, Andrews, Pedersen (Morris 68), Blackman (Mame Diouf 46), El-Hadji Diouf.
vs Celtic:
Robinson, Salgado, Chimbonda, Jones, Givet, Emerton (Doran), Linganzi, Dunn, Morris (Judge), Kalinic (Gunning), Blackman (Hoilett).
Form Players: David Dunn, Phil Jones
Blackpool
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 16 vs Tiverton Town 2-0 – Taylor-Fletcher, Edwards |
| July 20 vs Accrington Stanley 2-1 – Ormerod, Southern |
| July 22 vs Kilmarnock 2-2 (5-4 on penalties) – Euell, Almond |
| July 24 vs Leyton Orient 2-1 – Jeffers, Evatt |
| July 27 vs Crewe Alexandra 0-1 |
| July 31 vs Bristol City 0-2 |
| August 8 vs Hibernian 1-2 – Euell |
Team News:
Ian Holloway put out a strong side for Martyn Rogers’ testimonial game at Tiverton with nine of the eleven on show having started against Cardiff in the play-off final. Holloway paid the price for that almost immediately with Billy Clarke being forced off with a knee injury. His replacement Ishmel Demontagnac, set up the opener for Taylor-Fletcher before providing the corner for Rob Edwards’ header to make it two.
Blackpool’s most recent friendly saw them eventually win out on penalties against Kilmarnock after a rock’em sock’em affair. Jason Euell opened the scoring when he combined with trialist Franny Jeffers in the first half and then turned provider for new-boy Demontagnac to hammer home the Tangerines’ second goal.
Francis Jeffers did he chances of earning a deal with Blackpool no harm with a smart finish in the 2-1 win over Leyton Orient. The former Everton striker converted Eardley’s pass on 23 minutes. Ian Evatt struck the winner, heading home a rebound after a Charlie Adam free-kick had thumped the bar.
Blackpool traveled to Gresty Road and lost their first friendly of the pre-season to Crewe 0-1. Three unknown trialists played in the fixture to cloud matters some more and Neal Eardley limped off not long into the second half. Four days later saw another disappointing friendly for Blackpool as they fell 2-0 to Bristol city and lost both Keith Southern and Gary Taylor-Fletcher to injury.
Most Recent Starting Lineup vs Hibernian:
Gilks, Eardley, Evatt, Baptiste, Crainey, Adam, Vaughan, Ishmel Demontagnac, Euell, Taylor-Fletcher, Ormerod
Form Players: Gary Taylor-Fletcher, Charlie Adam
Bolton Wanderers
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 14 vs Charlotte Eagles 3-0 – Cahill, Elmander, Petrov |
| July 17 vs Charleston Battery 2-0 – K Davies, Cohen |
| July 21 vs Toronto FC 1-1 (Bolton win 4-3 on pens) – Taylor |
| July 24 vs Rochdale 1-1 – Blake |
| July 28 vs Oldham Athletic 0-3 |
| July 31 vs Falkirk 0-0 |
| August 2 vs St Johnstone 2-0 – Petrov, Elmander |
| August 6 vs Osasuna 2-0 – Elmander, Lee |
Team News:
Martin Petrov gave an early indication of his Fantasy potential in the 3-0 win over Charlotte Eagles. He hogged set-pieces, provided the corner for Cahill’s opening goal and then capped the performance with a long-range effort to open his Bolton account. Significantly Petrov and Ricketts were the only players not replaced at half-time – emphasising the Bulgarian’s quest for fitness ahead of the new season.
Bolton claimed their second victory of the pre-season against Charleston Battery courtesy of goals from Kevin Davies and Tamir Cohen. Again Martin Petrov was the key source of creativity for Bolton – he provided the assist for skipper Davies to convert the opener. The game also saw both Sean Davis and Joey O’Brien return to midfield roles after long-term absences through injury.
Bolton’s win over Toronto on penalties saw a return to action for Joey O’Brien who started in a five man midfield as Coyle employed his usual 4-5-1. Matt Taylor was the most impressive attacking performer on the night, bundling home Bolton’s goal on 28-minutes. Petrov provided the assist for the goal with what is described as a “scuffed cross”. Jaaskelainen was Bolton’s hero on the night, making a string of saves before keeping out two Toronto spot-kicks in the shoot-out.
The 1-1 draw with Rochdale marked the first time that Owen Coyle had employed a 4-3-3 fomation with Danny Ward, Robbie Blake and Johan Elmander set up in attack. Stuart Holden was given the opportunity to impress in midfield and he took it – he was often the source of creativity, particularly in the first 45 minutes. Blake got Bolton’s goal from the spot following a handball on a Gretor Steinsson cross. Coyle switched to 4-4-2 in the second-half with Riga, Sam Ricketts and Martin Petrov introduced. The latter again impressed and was only denied a second pre-season goal by a smart save from the Rochdale keeper.
Bolton got their first win on British soil up at St Johnstone with Petrov and Elmander notching late goals to claim victory. Significantly Owen Coyle started this game with a 4-4-1-1 formation with Martin Petrov playing in the hole just behind Kevin Davies. Petrov duly awarded this faith with a superb solo goal.
Most Recent Lineup vs Osasuna:
Jaaskelainen (Bogdan 60), Steinsson (Ricketts 60), Andy O’Brien, Cahill (Samuel 61), Robinson (Alonso 60), Chung-Yong (Taylor 60), Holden (Joey O’Brien 70), Muamba (Cohen 70), Petrov (Blake 60), Kevin Davies, Elmander (Gardner 60)
Form Players: Martin Petrov, Matt Taylor, Jussi Jaaskelainen
Chelsea
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 17 vs Crystal Palace 1-0 – Essien |
| July 23 vs Ajax 1-3 – Sturridge |
| August 1 vs Eintracht Frankfurt 1-2 – Lampard |
| August 4 vs Hamburg 1-2 – Lampard |
| August 8 vs Manchester United (Charity Shield) |
Team News:
The 1-0 win at Crystal Palace saw Michael Essien return to action in a Chelsea shirt for the first time since December, whilst Jon Obi Mikel also made a return from a spell on the sidelines. Essien looked a threat throughout and won the game with a smart finish after a smart passing move involving Josh McEachran and Daniel Sturridge. Carlo Ancelotti was without Yossi Benayoun, Yury Zhirkov and Michael Mancienne through injury for the opening game of the pre-season and blooded a number of youngsters in addition to a Franco Di Santo/Daniel Sturridge partnership up front.
Little change – Turnbull and youngster Billy Clifford came in for the injured duo of Cech and Alex – as Chelsea took their pre-season ventures to pasutres of Holland. Ultimately, the once again very youthful lineup were well beaten by Ajax with only a consolation goal from Daniel Sturridge the silver lining – all the rested World Cup competitors should be back for the next friendly. Ross Turnbull -who got some time in goal after Peter Cech picked up a calf injury- had a stinker of game, scoring an own goal and blundering to gift Ajax their second.
Chelsea then slipped to their second consecutive defeat at the hands of Eintracht Frankfurt and yet again frailty in goal cost them. Henrique Hilario fluffed a clearance attempting to take on an attacker only to lose possession and present the Germans with an easy goal. The error only helped to emphasise how significant the loss of Petr Cech could be should he fail to make the season kick-off. Frank Lampard scored his first goal of the pre-season in a game that also saw Yossi Benayoun make a return from injury to make the starting lineup.
Chelsea lost their third and final pre-season game in a row (before the Community Shield) as they ended their short tour of Germany the victims of a 2-1 deficit against Hamburg. Frank Lampard got his second goal in two games as a Michael Essien interception afforded the Chelsea midfielder an open goal to bag himself his second goal in two games.
Most Recent Lineup vs Hamburg:
Turnbull, Ferreira (Bruma 67), Ivanovic (Carvalho 53), Terry (c), Cole (Zhirkov 61); Essien, Mikel, Lampard (Benayoun 61); Kalou (Drogba 46), Anelka (Kakuta 67), Malouda.
Form Players: Michael Essien
Everton
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 10 vs Sydney FC 1:0 – Anichebe |
| July 14 vs Melbourne Heart 2:0 – Rodwell, Saha |
| July 17 vs Brisbane Roar 2-1 – Rodwell, Gueye |
| July 24 vs Preston North End 3-0 – Beckford (2), Saha |
| July 31 vs Norwich City 4-2 – Cahill (3), Bilyaletdinov |
| August 4 vs Everton Chile 2-0 – Beckford, Bilyaletdinov |
| August 7 vs Wolfsburg 0-2 |
Team News:
Everton’s made it three wins out of three with the 2-1 win over Brisbane Roar. Jack Rodwell and Magaye Gueye were on target for David Moyes’ men as they continued their excellent pre-season form. Rodwell’s second-goal of the summer was a beautifully judged chipped effort from 25-yards and he is rapidly emerging as a mid-price option worthy of serious consideration.
Aside from Rodwell, Everton’s attacking full-backs have been a feature, with Baines providing the assist for Anichebe’s winner against Sydney while Seamus Coleman has taken his chance to impress after an outstanding spell on loan at Blackpool. Coleman provided the assist for Rodwell’s opener against Melbourne. The young right-back also won a penalty in that game with another raid forward but it was duly missed by Saha. He duly started his second consecutive game against Brisbane as he continues to stake a claim for the right-back role.
The 3-0 win over Preston gave Everton fans a glimpse of Jermaine Beckford’s potential. Beckford started the match on the bench as Mikel Arteta returned from his honeymoon to make his first pre-season start. Beckford replaced the Spaniard on 56 minutes and duly gave Everton the lead from a Phil Jagielka assist. Louis Saha then capped a find performance but taking up a Phil Neville pass to finish from 18-yards. Saha then provided the assist for Beckford’s second before the former Leeds striker was withdrawn with a knock late on.
Everton’s impressive pre-season form continued at Carrow Road courtesy of a hat-trick from Tim Cahill. David Moyes was able to call upon both Tim Howard and Steven Pienaar for the first time in pre-season and the latter put in an impressive showing in a strong Toffees lineup. Seamus Coleman earned another start at right-back, with Hibbert switched to a central defensive role and it was Coleman who popped up with the assist for Cahill’s opener.
Everton lost their first game of the pre-season, in their final game, to Steve McClaren’s Wolfsburg outfit. Tim Howard saved an Edin Dzeko penalty and brought his A-game to make some more good saves on the day. Yakubu got his first run-out of the summer, Fellaini and Mucha got another 45 minutes under the belt – but other than that, nothing much else gleaned.
Most Recent Lineup vs Norwich:
Howard (Mucha 46), Hibbert, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Osman, Arteta, Neville, Bilyaletdinov (Fellaini 46), Pienaar, Saha (Cahill 46)
Form Players: Jack Rodwell, Seamus Coleman, Jermaine Beckford, Louis Saha, Tim Cahill
Fulham
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 14 vs Brentford 5-0 – Baird, Elm, Duff, E. Johnson, S. Davies |
| July 17 vs Bournemouth 1-1 - Zamora |
| July 22 vs Halmstad 2-2 – Gera (2) |
| July 27 vs Malmo FF 0-0 |
| July 31 vs Portsmouth 0-1 |
| August 7 vs Werder Bremen 5-1 – Zamora, Gera (3), E. Johnson |
Team News:
With Fulham still awaiting the announcement of their new manager very little can be gleaned from their early pre-season form. Bjorn Helge Riise did stand out in the 5-0 win over Brentford however and he could be handed further opportunities when a new boss takes control. The 1-1 draw at Bournemouth caretaker boss Ray Lewington select a strong lineup although he was still without key players such as Mark Schwarzer, John Pantsil, Clint Dempsey, Philippe Senderos as they continued their break following the World Cup. Bobby Zamora made a return from injury against the Cherries and looked a strong presence up front, claiming the Fulham equaliser.
The managerial saga still stumbles on behind the scenes but Fulham – and in particular Zoltan Gera – motored on regardless. Fulham’s Hungarian player of the season took just 8 minutes to head in a deflected shot from Simon Davies and bagged his brace when Damien Duff laid the ball off for him to smash home from 20-yards out in the second-half.
Fulham concluded their Swedish warm-up with a goalless draw against Malmo. However, Bobby Zamora put in an impressive performance testing the goalkeeper and the offside trap as well as earning a penalty in just the fifth minute – Danny Murphy unfortunately fired that one wide.
Mark Hughes was in the stands to watch his new side fall to a 1-0 defeat at Portsmouth in Linvoy Primus’ testimonial game. Fulham put out a strong lineup in this, their penultimate pre-season game. Duff and Zamora were the standout performers in attacking terms, the latter denied a goal by the woodwork and some smart saves from Ashdown in the Pompey goal.
Alex Ferguson may or may not have been there to scout Mesut Ozil, but it was Fulham, his gameweek 2 opponents, who will have left a mark on him. A comfortable 5-1 victory with all the goals scored in a busy second half. Zoltan Gera came on for Dempsey after 60 minutes and in his half hour he scored 3 goals (with help from Bobby Zamora, scorer of the first goal) and set up Eddie Johnson for the fifth.
Most Recent Lineup vs Portsmouth :
Schwarzer, Pantsil (Stoor 60), Konchesky (Kelly 60), Hughes, Hangeland; Baird (Dikgacoi 60), Murphy (Greening 75), Davies, Duff (Dempsey 60); Gera (E Johnson 45), Zamora (Riise 75).
Form Players: Bjorn Helge Riise, Zoltan Gera, Bobby Zamora
Liverpool
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 17 vs Al-Hilal – Postponed |
| July 21 vs Grasshoppers 0-0 |
| July 24 vs Kaiserslautern 0-1 |
| July 29 vs Rabotnicki Kometal (Europa League qualifying) 2-0 Ngog (2) |
| August 1 vs Borussia Monchengladbach 0-1 |
| August 5 vs Rabotnicki Kometal (Europa League qualifying) 2-0 – Gerrard, N’Gog |
Team News:
Liverpool’s first outing of the pre-season saw Roy Hodgson field an unfamiliar lineup, skippered by Lucas with a mix of first team, reserves and academy players. There was little to take from this game then. Milan Jovanovic made his Liverpool debut in the 1-0 defeat to Kaiserslautern, part of a another youthful Liverpool lineup. There’s still little to be gleaned from Liverpool’s pre-season at this point then.
Roy Hodgson’s side followed that up with a routine 2-0 win over Rabotnicki Kometal in the Europa League qualifier with David Ngog notching an impressive brace. Hodgson gambled on selecting a side that included second string players such as Ngog, Jay Spearing and Martin Kellly alongside more experienced campaigners such as Lucas in midield and a back four that included Dan Agger, Martin Skrtel and Sotirios Kyrgiakos.
Liverpool’s tepid pre-season form continued with a defeat at the hands of Borussia Monchengladbach but Hodgson could at least take the positives from seeing Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher, Joe Cole and Glen Johnson in action for the first time in pre-season. The Liverpool boss selected an inexperienced side around them so once again little can be gained from the result or performance.
Most Recent Lineup vs FK Rabotnicki:
Cavalieri, Johnson, Carragher, Skrtel, Kelly, Jovanovic, Lucas, Gerrard, Pacheco, Cole, N’Gog
Form Players: David N’Gog, Lucas
Man City
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 17 vs Portland Timbers 3-0 – Ireland, Adebayor, Jo |
| July 23 vs Sporting Lisbon 0-2 |
| July 25 vs New York Red Bulls 1-2 – Jo |
| July 28 vs Club America 1-1 (City win 4-1 on pens) – Adebayor |
| July 31 vs Inter Milan 0-3 |
| August 4 vs Borussia Dortmund 1-3 – Jo |
| August 7 vs Valencia 2-0 – Barry, Jo |
Team News:
The Citizens began their tour across the Atlantic with a victory over Portland with thanks to many a forgotten face. The marginalised Steven Ireland was first at hand to turn home an Adam Johnson cross and then Emmanuel Adebayor headed in another Johnson cross just a minute later. The changes were rung for the second half and Jo (remember him? £18m?) rounded out the scoring to lead City to a comfortable opening victory.
Many of the same players started once again a week later against Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon with less successful results. The game ended as a 2-0 defeat for City with little talking points springing from the game, the first unveiling of their (rather spiffy if I say so myself) new away kit perhaps the biggest talking point.
The second string and youth, lost a second game on the trot as New York Red Bulls wound out 2-1 winners, with Jo notching his second City goal. It’s hard to take too much more from these games as the eventual City lineup seems like it will be so far from most of the teams the last three games.
City ended their US tour with a deafeat to Champions League holders Inter. The game was dominated by the decision to dismiss Patrick Vieira for an alleged elbow on Marco Materazzi and City were easily despatched by the Italians by a 3-0 margin.
The final warm-up game for City saw them beat Spanish side Valencia by 2 goals to nil. Jo, a man surely destined to be leaving City before the window closes, scored his 4th goal of pre-season to round out the scoring after Gareth Barry nodded in a Jerome Boateng cross. The aforementioned German had a fair few imposing runs, as well as Kolarov down the opposite flank and on some set-pieces.
Most Recent Lineup vs Valencia:
Hart (Given 46), Richards, Boateng (Kolo Toure 46), Kompany (Ibrahim 78), Kolarov (Cunningham 73); De Jong (Vieira 46m), Barry (Weiss 68), Yaya Toure (Lescott 62), Silva (Wright-Phillips 36m), Tevez (Johnson 36m) and Adebayor (Jo 73).
Form Players: Adam Johnson
Man United
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 16 vs Celtic 3-1 – Berbatov, Wellbeck, Cleverley |
| July 21 vs Philadelphia Union 1-0 – Obertan |
| July 25 vs Kansas City Wizards 1-2 – Berbatov |
| July 28 vs MLS All Stars 5-2 – Macheda (2), Gibson, Cleverley, Hernandez |
| July 30 vs Chivas 2-3 – Smalling, Nani |
| August 4 vs Airtricity League XI 7-1 – Park (2), Owen, Hernandez, Valencia, Evans, Nani |
| August 8 vs Chelsea (Charity Shield) |
Team News:
Dimitar Berbatov was the oustanding player on show as United started their pre-season with a 3-1 win over Celtic in Toronto. The Bulgarian was influential throughout and opened the scoring for Ferguson’s men before laying on assists for two of United’s loan stars from last season – Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley. Ferguson went for a straight 4-4-2 in the opening game – partnering Berbatov with Mame Biram Diouf. Chris Smalling was handed a first start alongside Jonny Evans in defence but suffered a setback early on when he handed the Scots a spot-kick for a foul on Joe Ledley just after the break.
The 1-0 win over Philadelphia saw Gabriel Obertan fire the winner from a Danny Welbeck assist. Ferguson started with Kuszczak in goal for this game with O’Shea at right-back, Fabio on the left and Evans and Brown taking up the central defensive roles. Giggs was again a starter out wide, as was Scholes in the centre with Cleverley alongside him. Welbeck and Macheda led the attack as United again went with a conventional 4-4-2.
United finished their two week tour of America by losing 3-2 to Mexican side Chivas. New signing Hernandez opened the scoring, but unfortunately his 25 yard strike was for Chivas, the youngster playing a half for each side as part of the fixture. United’s only other signing so far, Chris Smalling, tasted goal for the first time when he headed in a corner to level affairs but for Chivas to add two more their tally. Nani pounced on a loose ball to make the game a closer affair late on, but United failed to end their tour without another defeat.
Most Recent Lineup vs Chivas:
Kuszczak (Amos 64); Evans, Smalling, Vidic, O’Shea; Valencia, Carrick (Fletcher 37), Gibson, Park (Nani 64); Rooney (Hernandez 45), Owen (Berbatov 45)
Form Players: Dimitar Berbatov, Tom Cleverley, Javier Hernandez
Newcastle
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 17 vs Carlisle United 3-0 – Best, Ranger, Vuckic |
| July 24 vs Norwich City 1-2 – Ameobi |
| July 31 vs PSV Eindhoven 2-2 – R. Taylor, Best |
| August 3 vs Deportivo La Coruna 0-0 (5-3 on penalties) |
| August 7 vs Rangers 1-2 – Lovenkrands |
Team News:
Two assists from winger Wayne Routledge caught the eye in Newcastle’s opening game of the pre-season at Carlisle. His quick feet and pace running with the ball was in evidence and both Leon Best and Nile Ranger beneifted with goals. The win was marred by Steven Taylor’s shoulder injury although later reports suggest that it is in fact a wrist injury. The centre-back was withdrawn on 79 minutes – early reports state that the injury is not serious although no doubt there will be more on that in the days ahead.
Hughton went with a 4-4-2 at Norwich with Ryan Taylor drafted in at right-back and Nile Ranger employed in front of him on the wing. Haris Vuckic was deployed on the left wing while Leon Best and Andy Carroll occupied the strikers roles. Hughton made wholesale changes in the second-half and was immediately rewarded with a goal from Ameobi, provided by a Xisco assist. That didn’t prevent the Magpies from slipping to their first defeat of the pre-season.
Newcastle, again, failed to notch a second pre-season victory when they took the short(ish) journey to Glasgow to face off against Rangers. Kevin Nolan was threatening throughout the game, and in the end had a crucial part to play for the Toon Army’s consolation goal. Nolan’s shot could only be parried by goalkeeper McGregor, so ex-Rangers player Lovenkrands reacted quickest and fired home the rebound.
Most Recent Lineup vs Rangers::
Harper, Perch (Ferguson 81), Enrique (R. Taylor 55), Coloccini (Tavernier 81), Williamson, Routledge (Xisco 82), Guthrie, Barton, Nolan, Gutierrez (Lovenkrands 69), Carroll (Ameobi 46).
Form Players: Wayne Routledge
Stoke City
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 15 vs Bursaspor 0-1 |
| July 22 vs Nantwich Town 2-1 – Moult (2) |
| July 22 vs Notts County 0-0 |
| July 24 vs Albion Rovers 9-0 – Beattie (2), Kitson, Marshall, Lund, Cuvelier, Soares, Thomas, O.G |
| July 24 vs Newcastle Town 6-0 – Huth, Fuller, Tuncay (3), Tonge |
| July 27 vs Derby County 0-1 |
| July 31 vs Burnley 2-1 – Tuncay, Tonge |
| August 3 vs Bristol Rovers 2-1 – Tuncay, Fuller |
| August 6 vs Wrexham 0-0 |
Team News:
Stoke’s behind-closed-doors friendly against Turkish Champions Bursaspor was in fact played in front of 100 fans and the TV cameras. Winger Matthew Etherington was a notable absentee for the low-key defeat. He is suffering from a minor knee injury that is threatening his pre-season build-up. Ricardo Fuller was the only senior player to come out of the game with any plaudits. He looked sharp despite having just flown back from Jamaica. Boss Tony Pulis made wholesale changes at half-time and stressed that he will continue this policy for the next couple of friendly fixtures.
And so he did, on July 22nd a decidedly second string (even by pre-season standards) side were the most successful of two Stoke appearances by beating Nantwich Town thanks to two goals from youngster Louis Moult. The ‘first team’ were less successful when they only managed a goalless draw against Notts County, Stoke had their chances but couldn’t take them. The most notable news was that Etherington had recovered from his previous knee woes to start this game.
Tony Pulis deployed two sides for friendlies at Albion Rovers and Newcastle and saw returns of 15 goals. Against Newcastle there was a hat-trick for Tuncay, as well as goals from Ricardo Fuller, Robert Huth and Michael Tonge. Huth opened the scoring from a Whitehead corner befoe a flurry of goals arrived in the second period. Fuller notched from a Liam Lawrence cross before Tuncay got his first from a Michael Tonge centre. Man of the Match Tonge then scored himself from another Lawrence assist. Tuncay then rounded off the win with another brace.
Meanwhile a second-string Stoke outfit put nine goals past Albion Rovers with Dave Kitson and James Beattie amongst the goals. A trip to Derby a couple of days later saw Stoke lose by one goal to nil with little else of note worth taking from the fixture other than Tuncay who put in a spritely performance once called off the bench.
Tuncay scored two more goals (one a game) in the Potters most recent duo of friendlies as Stoke got back to winning ways, both games ending up 2-1 at the whistle. The long forgotten Michael Tonge was on the score sheet once more in the first game against Burnley and Fuller rounding it all out against Bristol Rovers. Club captain Abdoulaye Faye also picked up a hamstring worry for Tony Pulis to contend with in the coming days.
Most Recent Lineup vs Wrexham:
Begovic, Huth, Collins, Delap, Shawcross, Higginbotham, Lawrence, Whitehead, Tuncay, Fuller, Etherington.
Form Players: Ricardo Fuller, Tuncay, Michael Tonge
Sunderland
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 13 vs Munster XI 2-1 – Waghorn (2) |
| July 17 vs Darlington 1-0 – Zenden |
| July 21 vs Brighton 1-1 – Campbell |
| July 24 vs Hull City 4-2 – Campbell (4) |
| July 27 vs Benfica 0-2 |
| July 31 vs Leicester City 2-1 – Campbell, Henderson |
| August 8 vs Hoffenheim 1-3 – Henderson |
Team News:
Martyn Waghorn made a mark in Sunderland’s first pre-season game in a short but successful second half appearance against Munster. The young striker turned in a Steed Malbranque cross before he scored his second with a curling free kick just minutes later. After a successful season on loan at Leicester, he hopes to make an impression on Steve Bruce this summer. An injury sustained in the game may well slow his progress however.
That game was followed by a low-key victory at Darlington with Bolo Zenden’s solo effort enought to win the game. Ahmed Al-Muhammadi made a lively debut in that game providing the assist for Zenden’s goal, while Frazier Campbell also caught the eye. There were however some concerns about Lee Cattermole’s fitness after he was withdrawn with a groin problem – the move was later confirmed as a precautionary measure.
Sunderland were given a tough workout by Brighton with Frazier Campbell poking home an equaliser from a Jordan Henderson free-kick. In truth Brighton dominated the affair and only when Bruce introduced Henderson, Campbell and Malbranque as subs did the Premier League side show any real promise. Waghorn returned from injury and started in a wide role, allowing Jones and Bent to start up front. Bruce ended the game with concerns over George McCartney who fell awkwardly on his ankle.
It was Frazier Campbell who was all smiles once again as his deadly finishing in the first half of the friendly against Hull amounted to a total of four goals inside 25 first half minutes against his old club, with Malbranque and Henderson the merchants of the build up play. At the end of the game Steve Bruce couldn’t stop ringing the praises of Campbells performance against Hull, and work all pre-season.
Campbell scored his sixth pre-season goal inside 5 minutes as Sunderland took a trip down Leicester way and headed home with a 2-1 victory to their names, the striker an effervescent performer right up until he was substituted. Jordan Henderson was equally spritely in performance and was duly rewarded with a goal too when his 30 yard strike tricked the Leicester goalkeeper and went in.
Most Recent Lineup vs Hoffenheim:
Mignolet, Bardsley, Richardson, Bramble, Da Silva, Malbranque (Henderson, 46), Campbell (Weir, 82), Cattermole (Cook, 76), Zenden (Colback, 46), Bent (Waghorn, 72), Jones (Al-Muhammadi, 46).
Form Players: Martyn Waghorn, Ahmed Al-Muhammadi, Steed Malbranque, Frazier Campbell, Jordan Henderson
Tottenham
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 10 vs Bournemouth 4:0 – Pavluychenko (2), Obika, Rose |
| July 17 vs San Jose Earthquakes 0-0 |
| July 23 vs New York Red Bulls 2-1 – Keane, Bale |
| July 25 vs Sporting Lisbon 2-2 – Keane, Obika |
| July 29 vs Villareal 1-4 – Giovani dos Santos |
| August 3 vs Benfica 1-0 – Bale |
| August 7 vs Fiorentina 3-2 – Pavluychenko, Keane (2) |
Team News:
Roman Pavluychenko put his hat firmly into the ring for further opportunities at White Hart Lane with a brace against Bournemouth in Tottenham’s opening friendly. Robbie Keane was also given the chance to impress following his loan spell at Celtic. David Bentley suffered an ankle ligament damage versus Bournemouth and was duly ruled out of the tour of the United States.
That tour began with a 0-0 stalemate with San Jose Earthquakes, a match which included very few points of interest except perhaps the form and prominance of Gareth Bale attacking down the left and from set-plays. Despite frequent bursts forward Bale was employed at left-back in this game however – a concern considering he is classified as a midfielder in the Fantasy Premier League this season. He also suffered an ankle injury during the game although appeared to shake it off.
Their next two friendlies saw Bale continue to impress down the left hand flank, in defence and midfield, with a goal against New York Red Bulls, whilst Robbie Keane notched a goal against the aforementioned Red Bulls as well as Sporting Lisbon. Reports indicate that Niko Kranjcar has also been having an impressive period out on Spurs’ American tour.
Most Recent Lineup vs Fiorentina:
Gomes (Cudicini. 68); Kaboul, King (Walker, 68), Bassong, Assou-Ekotto (Naughton, 78); Lennon (Kranjcar, 46), Jenas (Huddlestone, 46), Palacios (Livermore, 78), Giovani; Pavlyuchenko (Rose, 68), Crouch (Keane, 46)
Form Players: Gareth Bale, Roman Pavluychenko, Luka Modric, Robbie Keane
West Brom
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 10 vs Kidderminster 3:0 – Miller, Bednar, Meite |
| July 17 vs VVV Venio 2-1 – Miller, Tamas |
| July 24 vs Bristol Rovers 1-0 – Dorrans |
| July 27 vs Doncaster Rovers 0-1 |
| July 31 vs Coventry City 1-1 – Miller |
| August 7 vs Osasuna 1-1 – Morrisson |
Team News:
Pablo Ibanez was handed his debut in Baggies colours in their opening fixture with Kidderminster. He settled in alongside Olsson in central defence as Roberto Di Matteo employed a 4-5-1 formation – a tactic we’re likely to see throughout the season come August. Ishmael Miller started the game up front and was later replaced by Bednar. You would have to back the pace and power of Miller to earn the starting role come August 14 barring any major new signings up front by Di Matteo. Bednar has other ideas but will need to have a strong pre-season to win favour.
Di Matteo continued in his 4-5-1 formation and Ishmael Miller duly continued where he left off against Kidderminster by once again getting on the score sheet in Holland, having latched onto a Graeme Dorrans through ball. With it recently announced that the first team centre-back pairing is still very much up for grabs, Gabriel Tamas sent a message to the management that he can get on the scoresheet as well as defend, a break from his own half finished off after some neat interplay with James Morrison.
West Brom continued their unbeaten pre-season run with a rather uneventful 1-0 victory over Bristol Rovers, Jerome Thomas brought the most spark to the Albion game and broke through the Rovers backline to tee up Graeme Dorrans to head home from 6 yards. The striking trio of Simon Cox, Roman Bednar and Ishmael Miller were all left at home with minor knocks.
Six players – including Dorrans and Bednar – were left at home with small injuries as West Brom lost 1-0 to Doncaster in a game of little chances. Chris Brunt, who signed a new contract that morning, posed the greatest threat and unfortunately headed wide of an open goal.
West Brom earned themselves a 1-1 draw in Coventry when Ishmail Miller headed in a Gianni Zuiverloon cross in the final quarter of the fixture. New signing Boaz Myhill was also thrown in at the deep end 24 hours after signing for the Albion, as he played the second 45 and Marek Cech started his first game since returning from the World Cup.
Another 1-1 draw in their final game of summer saw James Morrison continue his long comeback from injury with the Baggies goal. Jerome Thomas worked his way the flanks and sent the ball in the direction of the Scotsman, who duly converted his chance. Centre-back Pablo Ibanez was also pulled out of the line-up after picking up a niggle in the warm-up, and Graham Dorrans is to undergo a scan on his groin.
Most Recent Lineup vs Osasuna:
Carson (Myhill 46); Jara (S Reid 61), Tamas, Olsson, Cech (Mattock 46); Mulumbu, Brunt (Zuiverloon 81); Morrison (Cox 81), Dorrans (Barnes 71), Thomas; Miller (Bednar 46).
Form Players: Jerome Thomas, Ishmael Miller, Graham Dorrans
West Ham
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 14 vs Peterborough United 2-1 – Cole, Edgar |
| July 17 vs Borussia Monchengladbach 2-0 – Cole, McCarthy |
| July 23 vs Panathinaikos 1-0 – Hitzelsperger |
| July 28 vs MK Dons 2-0 – Faubert, Cole |
| July 31 vs Ipswich Town 1-0 – Cole |
| August 3rd vs Southend United 1-1 – Diamanti |
| August 7 vs Deportivo La Coruna 0-0 (5-3 on penalties) |
Team News:
Thomas Hitzlsperger was given his West Ham debut against Peterborough in a three-man midfield alongside Kovac and Noble. Once again it was a fluid 4-3-3 from West Ham then with Stanislas and Boa Morte providing support for Carlton Cole up front. Hitzlsperger showed he will play a part in set-pieces this season although he was forced to share free-kick duties against Peterborough with Stanislas and Noble also playing their part. The German still managed to impress – providing the assist for Cole’s opening goal of the pre-season. New Hammers boss Avram Grant was also delighted with the performance from his side and in particular Hitzlsperger.
West Ham followed that win up with another victory against Borussia Monchengladbach with Carlton Cole registering his second goal of the pre-season. Hitzlsperger was again impressive in midfield in this one, while James Tomkins returned from injury to put in a dominant showing at the back.
Hitzlsperger continued his rich vein of form into a third game and this time earnt his just rewards by being the only name on the scoresheet against Panathinaikos. The Hammer characteristically hammered home when Luis Boa Morte touched his free kick the German’s way.
Following the 2-0 win over MK Dons, Avram Grant’s side made it five from five with the 1-0 victory over Championship Ipswich. Carlton Cole was again on target, his fourth goal in five pre-season matches. Robert Green was also outstanding in goal as the Hammers get their fourth clean sheet of the summer. Frederic Piquionne and Pablo Barrera made their West Ham debuts in this game. The only real concern for Grant was the injury to Matt Upson. The centre-back was replaced on just 23 minutes as a precaution.
The run of wins was ended, but West Ham remained unbeaten, as the relatively short trip to Southend finished 1-1 with Alessandro Diamanti scoring the crucial goal. New signings Barrera and Piquionne got to once more stretch their legs, now starting their first game in claret and blue, as they played alongside a team more akin to the West Ham substitutes bench.
West Ham finished their pre-season with a 0-0 draw against Deportivo, that they eventually won on penalties. Not much to be taken from the game apparently, other than the continuing pre-season form of a side who remained unbeaten all summer.
Most Recent Lineup vs Deportivo La Coruna:
Green, Tomkins, Gabbidon (Barrera 63), Upson, Ilunga, Parker, Noble, Hitzlsperger (Boa Morte 75), Faubert, Diamanti (Piquionne 63), Cole
Form Players: Thomas Hitzlsperger, Carlton Cole, James Tomkins
Wigan Athletic
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 17 vs Ostersunds 3-2 – Boselli (2), N’Zogbia |
| July 20 vs Oldham Athletic 1-1 – Gomez |
| July 23 vs Hamilton Academical 5-0 – Rodallega (2), N’Zogbia (2), Boselli |
| July 26 vs NK Rudar 4-0 – Gomez, McCarthy, Scotland, Boselli |
| July 29 vs Genclerbirligi 0-0 |
| August 4 vs Real Zaragoza 1-3 – N’Zogbia |
| August 8 vs Dundee United 3-1 – Boselli (2), Moses |
Team News:
New signing Mauro Boselli was welcomed unto the Wigan Athletic fold and duly helped himself to two goals in his first appearance for the Latics. French winger Charles N’Zogbia carried his form from the 09/10 season into the build up here by notching Wigan’s third goal.
Boselli made his first appearance in front of a home crowd and, despite not scoring, continued his rich vein of form vs Walsall where he struck the woodwork and required a wonder save from the Oldham goalkeeper in his second half appearance. It was bit-part player Jordi Gomez from the penalty spot who got the only Wigan goal of the day.
A behind closed doors practice match saw Wigan stroll to a five-nil victory over Hamiltion -not much of a thank you for signing two of their promising young stars in the last year- with both Charles N’Zogbia and Hugo Rodallega netting a brace while Mauro Boselli got his first goal on British soil. Wigan followed that up with a 4-1 win over NK Rudar with Boselli again on the scoresheet, this time from the spot.
Mauro Boselli finished his pre-season on a high when he lit up the Wigan side by scoring 2 and assisting the third in their victory over Dundee United. Victor Moses and Hugo Rodallega first combined to tee up Boselli to power home and then Maynor Figueroa rattled a cross into the six yard box which the Argentinian duly headed goalwards. His final work of the day was cushioning a header back in the direction of Victor Moses who emphatically fired home from the edge of the box.
Most Recent Lineup vs Dundee United:
Al Habsi; Boyce, Alcaraz (A Trialist 85), Gohouri (S. Caldwell 25), Figueroa (Baradji 58); Diame (McArthur 55), Thomas; Moses (Gomez 85), Watson, Rodallega; Boselli (Scotland 90)
Form Players: Mauro Boselli, Charles N’Zogbia, Hugo Rodallega, Victor Moses
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Pre-Season Fixtures/Results
| July 17 vs Bohemians 3-0 – Craddock, Fletcher, Mujangi Bia |
| July 20 vs Walsall 4-0 – Hemmings, Vokes (2), Ebanks-Blake |
| July 24 vs Charleroi 2-1 – Doyle, Edwards |
| July 27 vs Reading 1-2 – Jones |
| July 31 vs Leeds United 1-3 – Jarvis |
| August 3 vs Hearts 2-0 – Halford, Ward |
| August 7 vs Athletic Bilbao 2-1 – Fletcher, Ebanks-Blake |
Team News:
Mick McCarthy gave debuts to both Jelle Van Damme and Stephen Fletcher for the opening game of the pre-season against Bohemians and the former Burnley striker marked his debut with a goal. Jody Craddock opened the scoring – yet again demonstrating his knackf for set-piece goals, converting a Dave Jones corner. Ronald Zubar suffered an ankle injury and left the ground on crutches. He will likely undergo a scan to assess the extent of the injury.
A relatively second string Wolves side waltzed through the competition that neighbours Walsall could muster up. Youngster Ashley Hemmings opened the scoring early before he also had a part to play in the second of Sam Vokes’ first half goals. Underachiever Sylvain Ebanks-Blake made it 4-0 before Mick McCarthy rang the changes and made 10 substitutions.
A pair of carbon copy goals from Kevin Doyle and Dave Edwards were enough to bring Wolves their third pre-season victory, both players heading home a long throw from Greg Halford to sandwich the solitary Charleroi goal.
Wolves visited the ex-home of two of their current crop (Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt) in Reading, but couldn’t stop losing their first pre-season fixture. Richard Stearman gave away a penalty which was duly converted and then brother of Stephen, Noel Hunt, flicked on a ball which was nodded in at the back stick. David Jones drilled in a shot to fight back for Wolves, but to no avail.
A 2-1 victory for Wolves was to be the end of their pre-season ventures. Kevin Doyle was listed on the bench but announced to be going for a scan with a calf doubt. The scoring was opened when a swift piece of interplay between the Wolves strikers saw Steven Fletcher finish the move with a goal. After his assist, Sylvain Ebanks-Blake went one better and scored the second himself after some work in and around the box with Andy Keogh and Karl Henry.
Most Recent Lineup vs Athletico Bilbao:
Hahnemann (Ikeme 88), Foley (Stearman 79), Van Damme (Mujangi Bia 85), Jones (Edwards 70), Berra, Craddock (Mouyokolo 81), Jarvis (Halford 63), Henry (capt) (Guedioura 85), Ebanks-Blake (Milijaš 79), Fletcher (Keogh 63), Ward (Elokobi 45).
Form Players: Stephen Fletcher, Sam Vokes, Kevin Doyle
