the word

Liverpool not in the last 16 of the Champions League, yet the last 16 is exactly where they might finish in the Premier League this year!

Like all clubs Liverpool were hoping to break some records this season and they might have already done that. If you’re thinking they might break the record for most injuries in a season, that’s not it. Instead, this could be the earliest ever finish to a season.

No doubt when the draw was made for the group stages in the Champions League, fans, players and managers alike saw it as a given that they would be in the knockout stages. Being blunt the group consisted of the third best team in France, the fourth best team in Italy, and the European giants Debrecen! As a result the reds miss out on a possible £30 million pounds, I can’t help that think that would buy them a world class striker that they so desperately need in Fernando Torres absence.

After being ripped off £4.20 for a coffee in central London the other day I had a miniature rant to myself about the lack of value for money these days, which many of you would agree with. There is in fact value out there if you can shrewdly operate. Take a leaf out of Thierry Henry’s handbook. Apparently the France striker negotiated a deal where the players earned bonuses up to £400,000 for reaching next year’s World Cup. A guy who certainly knows how to handle his finances!

Watching Arsenal in action last night cemented my thoughts that along with Brede Hangeland at Fulham, Thomas Vermaelen is an outstanding centre half. At only 6ft many top teams didn’t want to touch him but what an asset he has proved to be for the Gunners. Just 24 years old and potentially one of the most solid defenders in the world and he even bags a fair few goals.

John Terry will be making his 300^th appearance as Chelsea captain and his team sit proudly at the top of the league and their group in the Champions League having already qualified. But all eyes will again be on 18 year old Gael Kakuta who could make his European debut. Maybe finally the footballing world might start talking about the talent the youngster possesses rather that his controversial transfer. No doubt this player is one to keep your beady blues on.

It’s that time of year when Christmas starts to get a mention. It’s funny though because in every family I know it's the mother that makes all the decisions on present buying, all the wrapping and writing of festive cards. So surely if we are going to delude children with myths about Santa Claus then at least there should be an element of truth, that it is probably Mother Christmas who does the dirty work and Father Christmas who gets all the lime light and plaudits! Behind every successful man is a woman!