Premier League Review 2012/2013 (Part 1)

Whilst it may not have been as exciting as last year, I'm sure you'll all agree that this season has still been extremely entertaining. Although there wasn't a huge amount of final day drama, there were some big scores throughout the season, one which won't be remembered for good defending! In this article I'll go through the first 5 teams in the league with the following ones coming in the next instalments. I've also managed to get a few comments from a fan of the respective clubs to see what they thought.

Arsenal
Arsenal enjoyed a very happy final day and somehow they just managed to sneak into the Champions League yet again. Despite this, I know a number of Arsenal fans who have been underwhelmed by how their season went. Many have been calling for Wenger's head (and I'm not just talking about Piers Morgan!), claiming that he is running out of ideas and Arsenal need a change. 

They didn't enjoy a particularly strong start to the season and it was their excellent end of season form that brought them home in the end with some inconsistency wedged in between. Goals were not a problem however as they managed to hit 5 goals or more 7 times! There were also low points however and they came especially in the form of cup defeats after they were knocked out by Bradford and Blackburn.
So was it a good season for Arsenal? Yes in the sense that they managed to hold on to Champions League football after a poor start and finish above their rivals Spurs. However, is that good enough? Arsenal have found themselves wanting more than just 4th place, they want to challenge for trophies and even the league! If they can keep Cazorla and spend a bit on a top class striker then I'm sure next season will  be exciting for them!

I got in touch on twitter with Arsenal fan @ManToManMarking to see what he thought about Arsenal's season:

"Same ol' same ol' for Arsenal again. A poor season overall but showing how use to contending for fourth we've become that it's become an achievement as such. Arsenal fans all around cheered their hearts out when we got fourth and so did the team. Not much improvement was made last summer but some definitely needs to be this one if we are to contend for the title or even for fourth!"

Aston Villa
It was a strange season for Villa and I'm not sure too many predicted they'd be in the predicament they were at the start of the season. They looked to have a young bright squad that had talent in abundance and had just recruited a new manager in Paul Lambert who'd just masterminded a smooth transition into the Premier League at Norwich. 

So where did it go wrong? Many people have cited the lack of experience in their squad and I think that was largely true, although I think they lacked experience in defence expecially and this was highlighted with some comical defending and ridiculous own goals throughout the season. 

Luckily for Villa Wigan couldn't hit that late season form they always do to save themselves and they had one of the most exciting strikers around to save them. Although the season won't be looked back on with too much fondness by fans, the main thing is that they stayed up and I think they can push on next season, especially if Benteke stays!

I got in touch on twitter with Villa fan @DanRBennett_ to see what he thought about Villa's season: 

"I think it’s fair to say that this season has been exhausting for every single Villa fan. There was a lot of positive feeling around the club when Paul Lambert was appointed Manager in the summer and there was every right for the positivity to be there Lambert’s philosophy of youth over experience caused a lot of fear with the fans though but he stuck to it and in the end it paid off.

 The Christmas period was the most worrying times for Villa fans as we had three successive defeats and they were heavy defeats too.  Our star players of the season were no doubt Benteke and Guzan, with Lowton, Westwood and Weimann standing out. Next season we will be hoping for more consistent performances and less bad luck, so that we don’t have to continue biting what we have left of our fingernails."

Chelsea
It was a bit of rollercoaster season for Chelsea too. They began the campaign in excellent form and look every bit like they might challenge for the title. Then they started to fall away and were prematurely knocked out the Champions League, eventually leading to the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo.

In came Rafa Benitez, possible the least popular manager in history. His arrival was met with mediocre results and this only increased the problems at Stamford Bridge. Rumours were rife that the players were rising against him and he would walk. Incredibly, he put up with it and guided Chelsea to an almost comfortable Champions League finish. This wasn't his only feat as he brought home some silverware.

They finished the season quite strongly after a dip and Rafa ended up doing was he was appointed to, something I'm sure not many Chelsea fans can complain about but something I'm sure many Chelsea fans still will!

Rafa has just been appointed new Napoli boss leaving a gap for the Special One to take the reigns again, although not confirmed at the time of writing, it looks imminent. Many are touting Chelsea to challenge properly next season if they splash some cash and resign José.

I got in touch on twitter with Chelsea fan @LFDFootball to see what he thought about Chelsea's season: 

"It was a difficult season to watch but come the end of it I was very happy with what we had achieved. Hazard and Oscar adapted to the league brilliantly and with a few additions we can become even stronger next year. Disappointed that Benitez hasn't been given at least a full season and full control of transfers to show what he can really do with this team." 

Everton
It's well known that Everton had a rare good start to the season this campaign and they didn't stop there. One of their best seasons in recent years ended with them finishing above arch rival Liverpool and even being outsiders for the Champions League at one point. 

However, the end of the season wasn't as kind to them and they lost manager David Moyes to Manchester United. Due to their excellent performances this season, a number of players have been linked with a move away from the club, most recently Leighton Baines and Marouane Fellaini. This was twinned recently with the announcement that they would bear a new club badge and sparked outrage from fans, many claiming it was too 'simplistic'.
The campaign was one of progress for Everton and many positives can be drawn from it. Fans hope that Kenwright has seen potential in the squad and will offer the incoming manager a healthy budget, something David Moyes never had. If they can keep on to their star players and appoint a half-decent manager then I'm sure next season they can cement their place as a top 6 team and even seriously challenge for the top 4/5.

I got in touch on twitter with Everton fan @Fo0tballista to see what he thought about Everton's season:

"A traditionally poor starting Everton commenced their 12/13 campaign with unexpected brilliance, defeating the soon to be Premier League champions Manchester United which in part set the tone for much of the early parts of the campaign – despite a few bumps along the way, Everton put in frequently strong and dominant performances. One problem persisted though – an inability to be clinical. Jelavic misfiring, Mirallas often injured, Anichebe very much so an uncertainy resulted in draws and a fundamental failure to kill games off. 

The season promised much, Baines was magnificent, Gibson dictated games, Fellaini often outstanding, Distin and Jagielka sublime and Mirallas magical; despite achieving the second highest points total under Moyes’ leadership, Everton were left empty handed. No European football, embarrassed at the hands of Wigan and Leeds in domestic competitions, and now set to go under major transition. It’s been a strange old year, one that hasn’t really brought much besides a fairly impressive 6^th placed finish; hopefully a spot that can be emulated or eventually improved in seasons to come."


Fulham
Fulham had a rather steady season overall. Although there were a few worries towards the end as they seemed to switch off after hitting 40 points, generally it was a solid season. They started the season well only losing to Manchester United and West Ham. Martin Jol had added sensibly to the squad and had played a masterstroke in signing Dimitar Berbatov as he would go on to score 15 goals. 

Fulham were, however rather inconsistent and unpredictable. Their first away games  of the season sum this up perfectly. First of all they travelled to Old Trafford where they competed brilliantly again Manchester United and were unlucky to be beaten 3-2 in the end. Next they went to Upton Park to face West Ham and were played off the park, they really didn't turn up at all. 

Fulham are a team with an ageing squad, shown by the average age in the team fielded away at Chelsea of 31.55. The youngest team they fielded was at home to Swansea however this wasn't much younger in 28.05. 

Martin Jol has already started his business in the transfer market, bringing in Fernando Amorebiata and Derek Boateng. The former being a very good move in my opinion, shown by the fact he was previously linked with Everton, Arsenal and Chelsea. If Jol can bring in a few more fresh faces, perhaps in defence where they conceded 60 goals last season then I'm sure they can aim for a more comfortable 10th placed finish.

I got in touch on twitter with Fulham Fan @FulhamsFinest to see what he thought about Fulham's season:

"Fulham's season has been a bit of an oddity. The last-minute sale of Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey in the summer doomed Martin Jol's bigger plans for building his own squad at Craven Cottage. He was left with no time to secure a replacement, and thus the season was essentially lost before it began. Fans picked up some relatively unrealistic expectations after the squad began on such a high note early on, and thus the final finishing position seemed more disappointing than it should have. Ultimately, the season served as a bridge to Jol's new plans without Dembele, and this summer will shape the Fulham squad for the next few seasons."

So that rounds up part 1 of the overview, if you liked it then please leave a comment, would love to know what you think. Thanks to everyone who gave their comments for each team, be sure to give them a follow on twitter!

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!

Iago Aspas - Scout Report

Rumours are currently flying around that Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Celta Vigo forward Iago Aspas, however amongst most English fans he is little known. So here's a brief overview of what to expect, should he arrive at Anfield.

Aspas is a 25-year-old Spanish forward who currently plays for Spanish outfit Celta Vigo. He worked his way into the Celta first team after making his debut for Celta B in 2006. His record for the Celta first team is currently 50 goals in 153 games, not too bad considering it is only in recent seasons he has hit form. 

Last season was an especially good one for him as he hit 25 goals in 38 games, however this was in the Spanish second division and that may concern some Liverpool fans. He has enjoyed a good season this campaign and has notched 12 goals in 36 games. That figure may seem a little underwhelming but in my opinion it is a good return for a striker in his first season in a top league as he is still adapting. 

So onto his playing style. Aspas is employed as a forward by Celta and has a great nose for goal. A deadly marksman with his precise left footed finishes, he calmly slots the ball home regularly exhibiting excellent composure in front of goal. At 5ft 9in, he is a nifty player who likes to get in behind defences with clever runs, however he also loves to poach a tap in from a cross. He is lethal when given an opportunity to score and rarely passes it up.

To round off, Aspas looks to be a decent signing for Liverpool, especially for a fee rumoured to be around £8m. Fans may be slightly worried over his lack of experience at the top having only played 1 season in Spain's top league, however he showed that he has adapted well. At the age of just 25 I think he can improve too. I do think he needs playing time and with Suarez and Sturridge at Liverpool I'm not sure he'll get as much as he'd like. In my opinion, he'd be better at a club where he is the main striker and guaranteed games week in week out. Perhaps he'll provide competition for the starting spot, getting the best out of Sturridge, Suarez and himself.

If my scout report wasn't enough then check out some highlights of him on youtube, here's a video I found: 

Francesco Totti: Still Got It

Even as a 36-year old appearing to be coming to the end of his days in the beautiful game, Francesco Totty is still going strong and continuing to deliver us magical moments. Just the sight of him with a ball at his phenomenal feet leaves us in awe. To many, he is just one of those players you can't help but admire, the way he trots around with such elegance and flamboyance and the manner in which he plays his football.

There are many reasons why fans and players alike develop an admiration for such a classy footballer like Totti, but one of the main reasons is due to the loyalty and devotion he has shown to Roma. The mercurial Italian has stuck by his side in tough times and all the honours and achievements he has won with the Giallrossi have been well deserved. Recently The Gladiator revealed that he once snubbed a massive move to Real Madrid in 2004; Madrid were quite possibly the biggest club in the world, but Totti continued to serve his beloved Roma and still continues to do so. You simply cannot question his commitment and loyalty; he is Roma through and through.


Totti has spent his entire career with Roma and there is no doubt that he is one of the finest players of his generation. We all know what sort of player he is as we've seen him produce remarkable moments in huge games, so I won't go too in-depth as to how this magician plays his football. What I will discuss, is the impact he has had on the game of football. Obviously, there have been a number of players who have been deployed in that number 10 role, but no player plays in that position like Totti does, he has made it his own.

It would be wrong to say Totti introduced the role of a trequarista, but it's evident to see that he has enhanced the role as far as it could possibly go. Operating behind the striker, Totti has been virtually impossible to stop, he has been able to control the pace of the game so far up the pitch and it's a quality no other player has ever been able to replicate. He sort of created his own position on the pitch, in the sense that the area and space he played in was not occupied by any other player. The edge of the box is Totti's zone, there he can choose whether to strike a sumptuous shot towards goal, or deliver a jaw-dropping pass into the path of a team-mate. Totti is the perfect number 10.

Fabio Capello was the coach who brought the best out of Totti in the 2000-2001 campaign; the season in which Roma won the Scudetto. Capello identified how key Totti was to this side and he built the team around him. In that trequarista role, Totti was the heartbeat of the Roma side, key to every attack they constructed and in the thick of all the action. His contribution to the side in that season was impeccable; he hit thirteen goals in the season and contributed even further with numerous assists. Totti didn't single-handedly win the Scudetto, because there were other players in the side who did their bit for the team, but Totti carried the Romans forward and in the most difficult of situations, Totti's class saw them through. They could rely on him to come up with the goods, even if it wasn't going to plan.


Looking at some stats on this phenomenon, I was amazed of the record he has at Roma. Since his progression to the first team squad in 1993, Totti has made 501 appearances for Roma, scoring a staggering 215 goals. That is quite brilliant. To score over 200 goals for a club which hasn't been as successful as some of the other elite clubs in Serie A, just shows the ability which Totti possesses. He really is a special player. The purpose of this article was to outline how Totti is still going strong even as his career comes to a close, so to prove this, here are some stats on Totti from the 2012/13 season: Totti created a total of 102 chances in Serie A;
evidence of the almost perfect vision he has always had in his career. He scored 12 goals, which is extremely commendable for an ageing player. Totti also contributed to the side with 12 assists, again highlighting his incredible ability to play team-mates into dangerous positions. These statistics suggest that Totti is still a footballing phenomenon.

When doing a bit of research on Totti, I clicked on the Roma website and found a profile on Totti. It contained all his achievements and statistics but further down was a paragraph which read:

"It is written Totti but you read Roma: Francesco is in fact not only the captain of AS Roma, but the symbol of the Club. Roman from San Giovanni, and "practicing" supporter of Roma since a very young age, when he went by scooter with friends to see Roma in the Curva Sud, the number ten is without question the number one in the history of this team. His numbers say it all: Totti has reached and surpassed many existing records in his long career with the jersey of Roma, which began as a child and is still in full progress ... always with the same shirt, always with the same enthusiasm. He is the epitome of the so-called "flags" of football - an example for all. Back to the numbers with the club: Francesco is the Roma’s top scorer in the league, in the European Competitions, and overall, the best penalty scorer. He is the Roma player with the most games played and most goals in the Italian National Team, and is the best Italian striker among current players! But not only scorer: he is the player with most games played in Serie A and in European cups! An unbeatable career that of the Captain, is enriched by its milestones: the historical Scudetto in 2000/01 (and Francesco is, by the way, the only one of that group still remaining to defend the giallorossa jersey ...), the League’s Supercup in 2001 and 2007, and the two Italian Cups won in recent years. Totti can also bear the title of European Champion under 21 (won in Spain in '96 in the final against the Spanish led by Raul) and especially that of World Cup Champion (trophy won in 2006 in Germany with teammates De Rossi and Perrotta). In addition to his team trophies are his individual awards: Golden Shoe and top scorer in Serie A in 2006/07, two “Golden Guerin” and a dozen “Soccer Oscar AIC” as best young player, as the best Italian player and as the best overall player, top scorer and author of the best goal of the year. In short, many goals, countless games of class and amazing memories to keep in the heart of all Roma fans: this is Totti, the captain. "Il Capitano."

Totti is now 36 years of age, so you sense that his glittering career may come to a close anytime soon. He has lost a few yards of pace and he is growing old, but the talent is still there, it certainly hasn't disappeared. If he does decide to retire in a few years, I'd expect him to still have some form of involvement with Roma; his affection for Roma will never die. There's no doubt that a player of his calibre is irreplaceable so until he retires, make sure you continue to enjoy watching him play. Francesco Totti - he has still got it and will always still have it.
I'll finish with a link to this video of Totti's Top 20 goals in a Roma shirt, be sure to give it a watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RaQGrYnwUM

Written by Josh Lawless,
Follow him on twitter: @DisguisedPass

*All stats taken from the Official Roma websites and Squawka.

The Hottest Prospects in Football (Part 5)

With young talent being so sought after in the modern game, we take a look at some of the hottest young prospects in football at the moment. I've put together a number of different reports from a variety of different sources to give you a wide range of writing. Make sure you check out some of the writers as this is only a flavour of their work! I'm not claiming this is a fully comprehensive list of all young talent, simply a selection! I've also included an edited picture of each player, hope you like them!


Lorenzo Insigne (21)

At just 5'4", Lorenzo Insigne is one of the smallest players you'll see, however what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in talent. After a number of loan spells, this season has been Insigne's breakthrough one as he has sought to replace a certain Ezequiel Lavezzi.



There is no denying that Insigne's main asset is his speed. Not just his pace and ability to cover ground quickly but also the speed with which he dribbles. Insigne has some of the quickest feet I've ever seen and twinned with his astonishing agility, he can be an absolute nightmare for defenders as he is literally gone with the ball in the blink of an eye.

The diminutive Italian also has an eye for goal and loves to cut inside and let rip in the back of the net. He also possesses and impressive shooting range and has already scored some cracking goals in his so far short career. Insigne's exceptional first touch allows him to burst on to through balls before producing a cool finish.

A hugely exciting prospect for the future, Insigne has bags of potential, watch this space!

Written By: Me! (Latest_Footy)

Phillipe Coutinho (20)


Brazil have been a nation which are well-known for producing some of the most technically gifted footballers which have graced the planet and with Phillipe Coutinho now making a big move to Liverpool, it seems that at some point, he will perfectly fit into that category.

 Coutinho began his career at Vasco da Gama before making a move to Inter Milan, where first team opportunities were restricted due to the quality players who occupied the same position as the Brazilian. A loan move with Espanyol granted him the chance to play regular football and it enabled him to showcase the incredible talent that he possessed.

Since then Coutinho moved to Liverpool in this season’s January transfer window and already he has received many plaudits after a series of impressive displays. It’s evident to see how easy it is for him to play football, he oozes class and has settled into that Liverpool side very nicely. He is able to link up with players and find team-mates with a killer pass, often even getting into good goal-scoring positions and finding the net on a few occasions. He is almost like a young Pablo Aimar, only small but his ability cannot be questioned. After a relatively tough time at Inter, it looks like he will eventually fulfil his potential with Liverpool.

Written By: (@DisguisedPass)
                      disguisedpass.wordpress.com

Adam Maher (19)

Adam Maher is not a name that may be all too familiar for irregular viewers of the Eredivisie but in the years to come I am sure it will be a name you will not be able to avoid. At just 19 years old, he is set for some future. 

Playing just off the main striker, Maher has the ability to control a game and dictate it at the tempo he wants to play it at. His vision is one of main reasons for this. His ability to pick a pass to an inch, and allows his team mates to join in play. It is this creative streak, coupled with an incredible tenacity that make him one of the leading Eredivisie talents. He may not be the most prolific of goalscorers but when he does get on the score sheet, it is usually clinical.  At times this season he has carried a poor AZ Alkmaar team to safety. 

It is believed that he is set for one of Europe’s top clubs in the summer with Alkmaar admitting they can no longer afford to keep the youngster. Dortmund and Manchester City are the favourites to snap him up. One thing can be sure, whoever does sign him in the summer will have signed an absolute gem.

Written By: (@OliT93)
                      blueworldfootball.tumblr.com

Paul Pogba (20)


Paul Pogba. The one that got away. Sir Alex Ferguson very rarely admits to his mistakes, mainly due to the fact that he doesn’t make that many. But surely in the years to come looking back, he’ll rue the day he ever let Pogba leave United.

Pogba a mystery to many supporters, has been a welcome and bright addition to Juve. His balanced set of qualities, both offensive and defensive, makes him a complete player who can fit into any style of play. His athleticism in particular makes him a strong asset and enables him to operate efficiently between central and wide zones (much like Vidal). He is also technically gifted and provides a midfield goal threat, which is crucial due to Juve’s 3-5-2 that includes no advanced wide attackers.

Alongside his technical and mental combination of ability, he is an absolute stalwart physically in the centre-of-the-park. At just 19, he has mastered the fearsome threesome combination of mental, technical and physical presence into a mould of his own — dominating players with his astute and raw power but cohersing along with Pirlo in a balance of technical grace.

The move to Juventus has been a sensational upbeat transition for the young Frenchman, acquiring 20 appearances this season alongside some of the greatest players in world football within the current Serie A champions. It has graced him with a sense of maturity he didn’t uphold at United as a youth prospect and moving abroad has given him a wider opportunity to enhance his experience.

So, with Pogba now flourishing and devastatingly exceeding whatever was expected of him by being compared to the likes of Yaya Toure — are we seeing another world talent emerge?

Written By: (@ManToManMarking)
                      man2manmarking.wordpress.com

Thanks to all the writers who got involved. If you liked any writer in particular then be sure to leave a comment or follow them on twitter! I do requests on photo edits of players so if you liked the pictures then get in touch on twitter (@Latest_Footy) or (https://twitter.com/Latest_Footy)

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!

Romelu Lukaku vs Christian Benteke

In our latest article we compare the two Belgians who have taken the Premier League by storm this season in Christian Benteke and Romelu Lukaku.

Christian Benteke began his senior career at Belgian side Genk before switching to Standard Liege. His time at Liege was dominated by loan spells although he did pick up a Belgian League winners medal in the 2008/2009 season. In 2011, Benteke returned to former club Genk where he caught the eye, notching 19 times in 37 games. This earnt him a move to Aston Villa in a deal thought to be worth around £7m. Since arriving at Villa Park, Benteke has grabbed 19 goals in 36 games in all competitions, a great return from such a young player in his first season in the Premier League.

Lukaku signed for Anderlecht in 2009 at the age of just 16 and within days was thrown into the first team. In the 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 seasons, Lukaku bagged 19 and 20 goals respectively and after being dubbed 'The New Drogba', things looked bright for the young Belgian. In the 2011 Summer transfer window, Lukaku joined Chelsea for a fee of around £17m , seemingly a big risk on such a young player. After failing to feature much for the Blues, Lukaku went on loan to midlands side, West Bromwich Albion. This wasn't a very high profile deal but it has ended up paying dividends for Albion as the big Belgian has hit 13 goals in the league this season. 

Here's how the two have performed in the Premier League this season 
(As of 26/04/13): 

These are some very interesting stats; what I think is most interesting is the difference in minutes played. Although Benteke has only had 1 more appearance than Lukaku, he's played not far off a thousand more minutes than him. Steve Clarke doesn't always opt to start with Lukaku due to the availability of other attacking options such as Shane Long.

With 15 goals to Lukaku's 13, Benteke comes out on top narrowly in terms of scoring this season. The stat that sets the two apart the most is the chances created. Lukaku has created 26 chances but Benteke has created a staggering 44. Benteke easily takes that one. Lukaku pulls it back with shot accuracy, comfortably topping Benteke in that respect. However, Benteke does come out on top in aerial duels won, very easily. Lukaku has a slightly better pass accuracy but in the end Benteke wins 3-2, although the stats should be taken with a huge pinch of salt due to the fewer minutes that Lukaku has played. One thing you can't deny is that both have some very impressive stats there!


Looking at both players tactically, Benteke can be desribed as a complete forward in my opinion. Not brilliant at hold-up player but he has a great jump on him and gets his head to a lot.  On the floor Benteke is quick and crafty, he has that killer instinct for goal and is always looking to score. Benteke's pretty quick too and attacks the ball with pace. Lukaku is slightly different, much better at holding the ball up but perhaps not quite as lethal. Both are incredibly powerful players but I think Lukaku can boast marginally better strength. Lukaku has a thumping shot on him and an excellent work rate, he is also an intelligent footballer who's decision making is very impressive for someone of such a young age. 

Overall, it is a very close one. There is absolutely no doubt that I'd have both players in my team but I think right now I'd just about favour Benteke. My reasoning for this is partially down to age but also reliant on the team around him. Benteke is 22 and whilst you couldn't call that experienced, he does have 3 years on Lukaku and this means he is closer to his peak and is probably a more mature player. Having said this, I do feel that Lukaku has more potential than Benteke. Also, Benteke, playing at Villa has been at a struggling team that have been shipping in goals all over the place but he has always stood out and grabbed vital goals, whereas Lukaku has been in an excellent West Brom side who've surprised everyone and been in the top 10 for most of the season. I'd argue that Benteke has managed to do it with a worse team around him, making his feats this season even more impressive. This is an incredibly close battle but I'll stick by saying that Benteke just just shades it! One thing's for sure, Belgium have one heck of a strikeforce on their hands!

Who do you think's better?

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!

The Hottest Prospects in Football (Part 4)

With young talent being so sought after in the modern game, we take a look at some of the hottest young prospects in football at the moment. I've put together a number of different reports from a variety of different sources to give you a wide range of writing. Make sure you check out some of the writers as this is only a flavour of their work! I'm not claiming this is a fully comprehensive list of all young talent, simply a selection! I've also included an edited picture of each player, hope you like them!

Mario Gotze (20)


Mario Gotze seems to have been around for a while now but when watching him play, it is often very easy to forget he is only 20-years-old. Couple this with the fact that at this age he already has a staggering 22 caps for the national side and you can see how much potential Gotze possesses. 

Gotze is most known for his ability on the ball and his creativity. Normally employed as an attacking midfielder, he can also play out wide if he needs to. After working his way through the Dortmun youth system he has now become a regular in the side and forged a formidable partnership with fellow German, Marco Reus. Together the two of them have been a thorn in many a side this season, building an impressive understanding of each other.With his phenomenal vision and excellent vision, Gotze is quite a player. One of his main assets is his composure on the ball, something rare in players his age. Not afraid to take people on, he glides through players, making sure he holds on to the ball before playing the killer through ball. 


It has recently been reported that Manchester City are interested in the young German and I'm sure other clubs will be chasing his signature come the Summer, however, whether he stays at Dortmund or not, there is no doubt he has the potential to be up there with the very best, a big future lies ahead.

Written By: Me! (@Latest_Footy)

Isco (20)

Spain has consistently upheld a justified reputation for producing exceptional talents, and none so in recent years have emerged more spectacularly than Isco. The Andalusian born playmaker is a product of the Valencia academy, but after his decision to depart for the shores of the Costa Del Sol due to his dissatisfaction with the amount of first team football, he hasn’t looked back. While the whispers of his remarkable talent were partly demonstrated last season, he’s arguably been the star of the Málaga side throughout this campaign.

His glorious ability in the final third, vision, link-up play and tendency to dazzle with his dribbling capability has understandably earned him plaudits in abundance, with his frequent involvement in the build-up play, final ball and finish in Málaga’s goals being a major factor behind their outstanding campaign. Despite being aged just 20, he’s already earned comparisons to the great Iniesta – the hallmarks of Andrés’ style certainly appear to echo in Isco’s play. His recently understandably gained the title of ‘The Tuttosport Golden Boy’ (effectively most promising young player in the world) in 2012, which certainly hasn’t helped ease interest – Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern, Manchester United/City, Chelsea and almost every elite club on the face of the planet appears to be chasing his signature. His new contract bumped his release clause up to roughly £30 million, so he’ll be far from cheap, but at his rate of progression, he has the potential to prove more than worth it. 

A recent call-up to the Spanish national squad highlights just how highly rated he has become in his own nation, and his scintillating performances have boosted his reputation beyond all imagination. Provided no major injury strikes, there’s one thing for sure – Isco has the potential to be a star of colossal proportions within world football.

Written By: (@Fo0tbalista)
                      thestracqsgrin.wordpress.com

Viktor Fischer (18)

The name of Viktor Fischer is likely to be the next to join those of van Basten, Davids, Kluivert and Bergkamp as successful products of the Ajax youth system. He has pace, technical ability and vision, but most significantly, he scores goals.

Fischer chose Ajax as the club at which to develop his ability. However, even Chelsea, Inter Milan and Manchester City were interested and scouting the youngster while he was at FC Midtjylland, but the prospect of being groomed by a club with such an emphasis and reputation on young talent was too good to turn down.

Fischer plays either as a central striker or on the left hand side of a three-pronged attack. His technical ability means that he has the potential to play as a number 10, but Ajax are well aware that his greatest talent lies on the receiving end of a playmaker’s work.

Currently stepping up to become a regular first-teamer for Ajax now, Fischer plays alongside Eriksen generally and the two Dane’s have formed a rather formidable partnership, helping Ajax currently top the Eredivisie. Over the last two weeks, Fischer has been touted as the next Bergkamp, due to a sensational ‘dinked’ chip he scored a week or two ago. Much like Bergkamp, he is a versatile player with a genuine ability of close control and astounding balance on the ball, that not many players develop at such a young age.

No doubt Fischer will become more emphatic in the eyes of fans and players alike. Brewing within a sparking generation of young, eager and aspiring players at Ajax, typically, there is a high limit in which he can follow on to like many others of Ajax foundations have before him.

Written By: (@ManToManMarking)

                      man2manmarking.wordpress.com
Julian Draxler (19)

Julian Draxler is one of the most well-known young talents in world football; plying his trade with Bundesliga side Schalke, even as a young player, he has become a regular in the side at the Veltins Arena. His impressive performances for Schalke undoubtedly justify why he has appeared quite often of late. There are many exciting young German stars around at the moment and you can certainly put Draxler on that last; he has magnificent technique, a flawless touch and formidable vision, meaning he is on course to become a regular member in the Germany squad for years to come.

This season, Draxler has really come into his own, having had limited game-time when Lewis Holtby was still at Schalke, he know finds himself as one of the key players at the Bundesliga outfit. While Holtby was still at the German side, Draxler was mainly used as a left-midfielder; a position which he was not entirely comfortable with. But since Holtby’s move to Spurs, Draxler has been shifted into a more central position, where he is able to both create and score goals. Despite being only 19, Draxler has made over 100 appearances for Schalke; for a player of his age to play so many games just goes to show how well he is regarded at Schalke.

 There is no doubt that he will excel on both the domestic and international scene, so make sure you remember the name Julian Draxler.

Written By: (@BackOf_TheNet)

                      backofthenetfootball.wordpress.comThanks to all the writers who got involved. If you liked any writer in particular then be sure to leave a comment or follow them on twitter! I do requests on photo edits of players so if you liked the pictures then get in touch on twitter (@Latest_Footy)

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!

The Hottest Prospects in Football (Part 3)

With young talent being so sought after in the modern game, we take a look at some of the hottest young prospects in football at the moment. I've put together a number of different reports from a variety of different sources to give you a wide range of writing. Make sure you check out some of the writers as this is only a flavour of their work! I'm not claiming this is a fully comprehensive list of all young talent, simply a selection! I've also included an edited picture of each player, hope you like them!

Thiago Alacantara (21)

Thiago Alcântara is perhaps one of the best Spanish young players around who, in game time terms, under the radar. He plays for Barcelona, so it is understandable as to why he struggles for first-team games – not because he doesn’t have that ability (he most certainly does) but because of the midfielders ahead of him.

Born in Italy, fathered by Brazilian legend Mazinho and growing up in Spain, Thiago hasn’t had the easy life. First he was at Flamengo until he was 5 when he moved to Spain to play for lower-league Spanish sides whilst his father played for Elche. He returned home to Flamengo before finding his way to La Masia aged 14.

But from this, he’s grown into an incredible player. A young, sensational, ambitious player who possess such great passing ability, fabulous first touch and the knowledge and insight which he’s learned from the great La Masia. His ability is well known as is his potential, and at just 21 he’s already achieved 3 caps for the Spanish national team.

Regarded as the undisputed replacement to Andrés Iniesta, until Isco arrived on the scene, he will surely, but slowly play a key part in Barcelona’s future as well as Spain’s future. Many believe he’s developing into the ‘Xavi role’ but one thing we should all know is that he is the future of Barcelona – he’s the player which optimises and represents Barcelona’s vision, philosophy and beliefs.

Written By: (@lastgaspgoal)

                      lastgaspgoal.wordpress.com

Lucas Moura (20)

Along with Neymar and Oscar, Brazil also have another young and upcoming attacking prodigy in the form of Lucas Moura. At just the mere age of 20, He has played for Brazil 23 times and was bought by mega-rich PSG for $45 million, the clubs most expensive signing ever. 

Moura who joined PSG in January has really added something to the already star studded line-up. In the 8 appearances he has made for Les Parisians, Moura has created 15 key chances, which averages to nearly 2 a game, for a 20 year old, his talent is out of this world. Most defenders must tremble in terror when they hear Moura's name. 

The Brazilian primarily operates as a winger but can also play as an attacking midfielder. Like most Brazilians, Moura seems to love the joy of taking the ball past an opponent in an eccentric way, combined with his pace he can be a real pain for defenders. Moura is just the latest in a string of hot prospects for Brazil, and with his help, it could see Brazil return to their normal world-cup winning ways. All Moura can do now is improve and improve, Lucas Rodrigues Moura da Silva, remember the name.

Written By: (@Guardiology)

                      quickonetwo.wordpress.com

Raphael Varane (19)

Of all the talented youngsters in the world, it is Raphael Varane; centre-half for Real Madrid who is earning rave reviews after producing some outstanding defensive performances for Los Blancos. Varane has received a great deal of game-time recently; cementing his place at the heart of the Real defence alongside Sergio Ramos.

Varane is what some would consider to be the perfect defender, seen as though he is equipped with all the correct attributes to become one of the best defenders of our generation. He is a strong, quick and powerful centre-back who is flawless at bringing the ball out from the back, he is incredibly comfortable on the ball and his decision-making is first-class. The Frenchman is also an exceptional reader of the game, often timing tackles and interceptions to perfection, as well as being the victor when locked in a battle with an opposition striker.

His most impressive trait is his aerial threat; he is extremely powerful and dominant in the air and can generate an enormous amount of power in his headers, something which can be successful at both ends of the pitch. The Former RC Lens youth product has the perfect physique for a defender; being tall and stocky, he is able to easily out-muscle strikers and the way he plays is incredibly reminiscent of former France defender Lillian Thuram. It would appear that he has the perfect package for a defender and if he is able to continue to mature and develop over the next few years, you wouldn't put it past him becoming one of the best defenders in the world.

Written By: (@BackOf_TheNet)
                     backofthenetfootball.wordpress.com

Romelu Lukaku (19)

Whilst Lukaku hasn't reached the dizzying European heights that some have in this article, he cannot be underestimated. The powerhouse has been a revelation for West Brom this season and has been a catalyst to their new found success. With 13 goals in all competitions this season, Lukaku has become a thorn in many's side.

The Belgian is actually on loan from Chelsea and this has led to him being dubbed 'the new Drogba'. In my opinion, this is actually rather accurate as they both share impressive physical attributes that are a huge part of their game. Lukaku is a powerful striker and the big Belgian can hold up the ball to great effect, using his strength to his advantage. For a big man, he is also deceitfully quick and combined with his power, it is a lethal combination, you definitely wouldn't want to go into a 50/50 with him!

Lukaku also comes across as an intelligent footballer to me, this is evident in his hold up play which is very patient. This is further emphasised in his determination to improve as Baggies manager Steve Clarke claimed the striker has stayed behind to practice shooting. All in all, Lukaku present a massive prospect for the future, indicated by his success this campaign, if he is this deadly at the age of 19 then imagine what he'll be like, fully developed in a few years. A thought I'm sure many defenders dread!

Written By: Me! (@Latest_Footy)

Thanks to all the writers who got involved. If you liked any writer in particular then be sure to leave a comment or follow them on twitter! I do requests on photo edits of players so if you liked the pictures then get in touch on twitter (@Latest_Footy)

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!