International friendlies are often met with disdain or anger in various degrees from top flight managers, so it seems likely that the England versus Ghana game tonight is effectively the footballing equivalent to a red rag to a ball for the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Steve Bruce. Read more

Gareth Bale is a world class footballer who on his day could force his way into any side in the world, there’s little doubt about that. However, even though he is a man who is nothing short of immense on the pitch, he can still not be classed as one of the footballing greats for one reason only: he is excessively injury-prone. Read more

Given the popularity of the England team appears to be at an all time low, the re-appointment of John Terry as its leader and figurehead seems entirely appropriate. Read more

Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions have been dealt a double defensive blow, with Thomas Vermaelen ruled out for the rest of the season alongside Johan Djourou. Belgian international Vermaelen picked up an Achilles injury in September while representing his country, the problem worsened and surgery was required. After numerous delayed comebacks, the club have confirmed it will be next season rather than this before Vermaelen does finally return to the side. Read more

The chances of Chelsea or Manchester City winning the Premier League this season remain very slim, but the same cannot be said of their chances of pipping Arsenal to automatic qualification to the Champions League group stages next season, rather than running the danger of potentially fighting it out against some of the top sides from Europe to make it into the top tier of European football. Read more