Sam Allardyce's Brazilian

West Ham have signed Brazilian forward Nene on a free transfer. The former- PSG man signed a short term deal that will last until the end of the season.

At 33 years of age, Nene arrives from his exotic adventure with Al Gharafa, a club based in Qatar, a expedition that was motivated by finance.

 Nene at his peak was a star performer for the then newly rich PSG, so much so scored 21 goals in one campaign in France.

Although Nene was out of the footballing spotlight while in Qatar, during his time in Europe he was renowned for being a very talented footballer. If he still has the technical ability and skill he produced so often in France, Nene could be a real asset to manager Sam Allardyce.

Nene put pen to paper at Upton Park

Due to his age, he may have lost a bit of his pace that allowed him to skip past defenders but that was never his major strength. Nene is a clever player who can use his vision, anticipation of the game and creativity to culture scoring chances for himself and team mates. While the physical side of his game may have declined, his mental attributes should have developed with experience.

Nene originally left PSG after finding himself no longer a first team player as world stars like Ezequiel Lavezzi, Lucas and Jeremy Menez now of AC Milan got the nod. Disillusioned with life at the Parc des Princes, Nene opted to leave Europe for Qatar.

However, Nene is now back and could become a tactical master stroke from "Big Sam." West Ham aren't blessed with a number of attackers especially after Andy Caroll has now been ruled out of action for the rest of the season due to knee surgery. That leaves Carlton Cole as cover for first choice strikers Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia.

Nene's former employers include Monaco and Celta Vigo

While Sakho has been one of the stand out players at Upton Park this year, he can often frustrate by making the wrong decision. Enner Valencia's strong start to the season seems to have slowed and has three goals to his name in 22.

Nene can offer something coming off the bench if Allardyce wants to continue with Sakho and Valencia as first choice starters. Whatever role the English manager has in mind for Nene, it will be sink or swim as he returns to Europe as he looks to prove he can still produce at a competitive level of football. Will this be a savvy bit of business from Allardyce or a big no-no, sorry should that be ne-ne?

Van Gaal's summer wishlist revealed

"I'm looking for balance and I need it in midfield." Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal today revealed his top priority for this summer's transfer window. Reinforcements in the creative midfield department are necessary according to the Dutchman and following Manchester United's summer splurge last year a household name may be on their way to Old Trafford.  

Previous target Arturo Vidal is obviously someone the club would ideally want and may try to land him again however, the Chilean won't come cheap and is happy to stay in Turin. Other names floating around the rumour mill include Paul Pogba but, a return to Manchester United is unlikely following his torrid time there and seems destined for a big money move to one of the Spanish super powers Barcelona or Real Madrid. 

So who should Woodward and co consider? It really depends on what sort of midfielder Van Gaal is after. Whether it be a midfield hard man to break up play, a player to dictate tempo and recycle moves or a creative number 10?  

Van Gaal dropped hints that he was after a creative midfielder in his latest interview, one that did not involve tactical dossiers or references to a "twitchy ass." The Dutchman said: "In the last games, I played with Adnan Januzaj and Angel Di Maria in the midfield positions and you need a certain balance for those kind of creative players.

"So when you have these creative players and you think that [Radamel] Falcao and [Robin] van Persie are also creative, then you have four creative players. Then you have to look for balance in your team."

If its the tempo-setting creative type, step forward Miralem Pjanic of Roma. Anyone that has watched the little midfielder's development under Rudi Garcia will know that he is apt fit. Assured on the ball, blessed with great vision and not shy to drive forward from midfield, the Bosnian international should be top of the wish list.   

However, he is in the mould of a Ander Herrera, a player who was signed for £29m but has slipped down Van Gaal's pecking order. Van Gaal is also shown he is willing to play Wayne Rooney in midfield, a player who has looked comfortable in the middle of the park but is probably better suited upfront where he can do more damage. Daley Blind, another summer signing has been favoured as the holding midfielder in the diamond, impressing his first season in England. 

Van Gaal has already lauded Michael Carrick and is clearly a huge fan of the English midfielder, so much so handed him the vice captain role. Carrick when fit, challenges Blind for spot sitting in midfield. While it is often Pjanic's team mate Kevin Strootman reportedly being courted by Van Gaal since his appointment, Pjanic would be a better suit to Manchester United given the players they already have.  

Strootman was not his usual all action self when he returned to Roma following knee surgery that ruled him out of the world cup. Cartilage damage was suffered as a result of the surgery and has now forced Strootman to sit out the remainder of the season, casting doubt over the long term fitness on the midfielder and if would he be worth the gamble. 

Van Gaal has recognised his squad still needs to be improved and a reluctance to delver to much into the January transfer window suggests Van Gaal is not interested in quick fixes. This summer could see Manchester United test the resolve of long term targets and yet more blockbuster names in the world of football could be courted into turning out at Old Trafford. Watch this space! 

Ibracadabra

In a era where media coverage of sport has never been so great, few sportsmen are able to define their media image. When you think of some of the greats in sporting history, for example Muhammad Ali, some were able to portray their own character and reputation rather than just become another sportsman moulded by what the media write.

Step forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Arrogant, funny, rude, misunderstood are all common descriptions of PSG's talisman. While it is obvious the Swede has the talent on the pitch, he is just as entertaining outside of football. How he reacts to the press in his manner has become something of much interest and is one of the reasons why he is so popular on the sporting stage.

Quips like telling team mates not to talk to the media as he "is the boss" and how he would not get his wife anything for her birthday as "she already has Zlatan" make the striker iconic. Few sportsmen let alone footballers are willing to drop the media visage and interact as themselves.  

However, his most recent act is the perfect example to how footballers of mass popularity to can use the game as a stepping stone to raise awareness for important global issues. David Beckham, Lionel Messi and Didier Drogba to name a few do wonders for global causes like Unicef, Kick It Out, etc.

Although, Ibrahimovic's latest stunt is arguably one of the most eye catching and touching gestures during on a sporting stage for some time. Having just scored against Caen, Ibrahimovic walked to the middle of the centre circle, to reveal 50 temporary tattoos that covered his entire torso of names of 50 starving children from different countries for the World Food Programme.

While sporting demonstrations are so often a driving force to have world issues recognised and to say that global issues, politics and sport do mix could not be more wrong, Ibrahimovic has most certainly raised the media profile of a fantastic organisation.  

No stranger to ink, Zlatan spoke on the demonstration:  "I had 50 temporary tattoos on my body. They were the names of real people who suffer from starvation in the world. Even if the tattoos are gone today, these people are still there. There are 805 million starving people in the world. I want you to see them, through me, to help the World Food Programme."

Sportsmen and women will forever continue to make bold political statements on sporting stages and with the media coverage that exists today it is impossible for the views not to be seen or heard. That said, it is unlikely to see a athlete raise awareness for a cause in such a bold way that Ibrahimovic did, doing so in a way that really summarises his character.

Kane and able for England?

England manager Roy Hodgson peers down from the directors box at White Hart Lane as Harry Kane once again delivers for Tottenham Hotspur, this time in what is the biggest game in the footballing calender for Spurs.

In front of the home fans, Harry Kane scored twice for Tottenham in the north London derby and notched his 12th Premier League goal this season. Kane running over to the Tottenham faithful in jubilation has become a familiar sight as he has won points for the side on his own.

But, does Harry Kane warrant a call up to the England set up? Hodgson has been casting his eye over the forward for some time this season and Kane's performance against rivals Arsenal may well have put him in contention for England's upcoming European qualifier with Lithuania on the 27th of March.

Kane emerged from the Tottenham youth ranks

"One of our own" chant the Tottenham fans as Kane has repaid the faith placed him since his emergence from the Spurs youth ranks. It was ex-manager Tim Sherwood that first gave Kane his chance to shine and did impress towards the end of the season. However, the forward has really flourished under manager Manuel Pochettino and is now regarded as a key player.

Kane has the ability to hold up the play with his tall frame and be a real handful for defenders. Blessed with a good touch to match, Kane has an eye for goal and despite being just 21 years of age, oozes confidence. 22 goals in total this season is hard for Hodgson to ignore, becoming the top goalscorer in all competitions, pipping the likes of Sergio Aguero and Diego Costa.

Having represented England at U21 level, Kane's objective this year must be to break into the senior side. A call up would cap off what has been an incredible year for the striker. 

Kane celebrates a goal at U21 level with Luke Shaw 

In what can only be described as a front line lacking depth in goal shy Roberto Soldado and the lackadaisical Emmanual Adebayor, Kane carries the burden as the goal scorer for the side despite his youth. Kane could well challenge for a spot in the England squad but faces a challenge to get ahead of now fit again Daniel Sturridge. 

Kane may well be a useful option off the bench for Hodgson to employ but also faces competition from another emerged striker this season who has been in red hot form, Charlie Austin. Hodgson has watched QPR a few times this season and the striker will certainly deserves to be in contention.

It will be exciting to see who Hodgson brings into the England squad for the upcoming matches. It could be a time for a series of players to make international debuts as the national side enters a transitional period following high profile retirements of players who have been ever present such as Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole. Kane he replicate his form for England?

Best of the business in January

The January transfer window has slammed shut for another year and amongst the movers and shakers, which clubs did the best bits of business?

AC Milan
A club lacking real financial fire power due to debt, the red side of Milan have been restricted in transfer windows. No longer able to compete with the European super powers, AC Milan often have to make do with short term quick fixes that don't force the likes of Berlusconi to dip too deep into his pockets.The Rossoneri however have acted in savvy business fashion and tied up some very clever loan deals.

The club secured Fernando Torres on a permanent deal for nothing from Chelsea following his "flop" status at Stamford Bridge and immediately loaned him out to his boyhood club Atletico Madrid. In return, manager Filipo Inzaghi got ex-Torino attacker Alessandro Cerci. The Italian had been out of favour in Madrid following his big money move in the summer despite his creative exploits last year.

AC Milan then brought in Mattia Destro on loan from Roma, a move that surprised a few considering the Rome club were willing to let a player of his calibre leave the side. While Destro does not offer to much to the team in his play, the Italian striker does score goals and can be a real predator in the box. An out and out striker is something Inzaghi's side has really lacked this season and have had to rely on the creativity of Jeremy Menez as an unorthodox number 9 for goals.

Regarded as a bright talent at Anfield, Liverpool let their Spanish attacking midfielder Suso leave the club for a undisclosed fee. While Diego Lopez has been in great form for AC Milan, the Spaniard can only do so much as his defence so often lets him down, creating needless pressure for the goalkeeper. Inzaghi felt it was necessary to sure up his defence, bringing in  4 defenders in the form of Gabriel Paletta from Parma, Luca Antonelli from Genoa, Krisztian Tamas of AS Varese and Salvatore Bocchetti from Spartak Moscow.

Inter Milan
Whereas in the blue side of Milan, cross town rivals Internazionale have followed suit and pulled off some of the finest coups in Europe. Arsenal's left sided forward Lukas Podolski arrives on loan with a view to permanent deal to provide some creativity in the final third. The German international joins in search of first team football and could be a real success at the San Siro, suiting manager Roberto Mancini's narrow style of play.

Roberto Mancini also welcomes one of Europe's most exciting talents in Xherdan Shaqiri, whose development has stalled since his arrival at Bayern Munich after struggling to get game time. Bayern's Pep Guardiola is happy to let him leave with Inter Milan managing to install a view to permanent deal once the loan finishes. The Swiss star is a signing fans can be delighted about and may be one of the few highlights of what is set to be a disappointing season.

AC Milan have swapped and chopped their side around

Davide Santon returns to the San Siro on loan from Newcastle, with the side lacking in full backs as Mancini looks to stamp his style of play into the side, moving away from previous manager Walter Mazzari's preferred trio of centre backs in defence. Defensive midfielder and one time Arsenal target, Marcelo Brozovic arrives from Dinamo Zagreb. Big things are expected from the 22 year old and his development is something Inter Milan fans will be watching with anticipation.



Chelsea
Unlike both Milan clubs, Chelsea have the financial muscles to flex in the transfer market. However, the Blues cannot go spending outrageous amounts of money due to Financial Fair Play Regulations. Manager Jose Mourinho has seemingly abolished the Chelsea of old who were willing to spend big and not recuperate their losses. The sales of fringe players like David Luiz, Romelu Lukaku and Juan Mata has generated over £100m over the last year.

Keeping with this trend, the "Special One" saw fit to sell Andre Schurrle for £22m in an effort to capture Fiorentina's Juan Cuadrado in a deal totalling to £27m on top of letting Mohammad Salah go the other way on loan. While the club have had to let go of Schurrle, a player many regarded as a player with a future at the club and a dangerous option coming off the bench, Mourinho saw it a necessary sacrifice.

Cuadrado has been one of the expensive purchases of the window, however there are question marks of what role the winger will fulfil at Chelsea . His pace and flair will make him the player to watch and will no doubt be a handful for defenders. Ryan Bertrand, a champions league winner with the club, left on a permanent deal to Southampton following his initial loan for an excessive £10m. Bertrand has impressed in his short stay at St Marys and has been a welcome remedy following the departure of Luke Shaw.

Inter Milan have bolstered their attack in January

Roma
The third Italian club to make clever business transactions this January, Roma are playing catch up to league leader Juventus and saw it necessary to add reinforcements. As Mattia Destro left the side to join AC Milan on loan, manager Rudi Garcia added Seydou Doumbia to the ranks to replace the Italian. The pacey forward will join up with the side once his African Cup of Nations duties are over with the Ivory Coast.

Caligari's Victor Ibarbo is also welcomed to Roma, although initially on loan with a view to a long term deal. Ibarbo will add even more speed to Roma's attacking front three however, is most likely to act as cover to first choice Juan Iturbe and Gervinho. Garcia holds the Columbian in high regard too, saying: "For me, Ibarbo can become a champion, but I have to consider whether he's ready, I won't take risks with him."

Roma have also built for the future, securing 18 year old Jonatan Lucca from Internacional. Lucca was a player catching the eye of many European clubs and was brought in for a fee just under £1m. 17 year old Perth Glory midfielder Daniel De Silva also was signed but, will remain in the Australian league for the season. Newcastle's Mapou Yanga-Mbwia has been signed permanently after impressing for Garcia's side in the early days of his loan.

The January window has slammed shut and there seems to a common misconception that this window was a dud. Across Europe it is clear clubs have acted in a direct business fashion, working in a conservative manner during what can only be regarded as a difficult and frantic time to purchase players. January was not a boring window, business has been flowing!

Love Lampard

On July 24th 2014, Frank Lampard's love affair with Chelsea ended as he left as a free agent signing for the newly formed New York City FC. Today, he returns to Stamford Bridge in the colours of title rivals Manchester City.

There is a divide among the Chelsea faithful on how to receive a player they once lovingly dubbed "Super Frank." Some rightly feel he should be honoured upon his return whereas others feel that a special treatment should be out of the question for a player helping direct rivals Manchester City.

However, Chelsea really should be ashamed if Lampard does not getting anything but a warm reception full of respect. The Englishman is a player that was forever present in Chelsea's most successful years in history and was a cornerstone in their successes which included a first Premier League title in 50 years, a first Champions League trophy amongst the silverware.

Frank Lampard returns today to Stamford Bridge

During a time of constant change in owner Roman Abramovich's reign, Frank Lampard was one of the few players that was always in the side. He was part of the Chelsea backbone which included John Terry, Petr Cech and Didier Drogba that was considered untouchable by the Chelsea faithful.

Frank Lampard spent a majority of his career at Chelsea, having arrived from West Ham in 2001 for a fee of £11m, a price tag that was regarded at the time as a gamble. Since then Lampard became the clubs all time leading goalscorer with 211 goals for the side and the fourth in number of appearances in history for the side. Many forget that during his prime, Lampard was voted second in the Balon d'or ceremony behind none other than Ronaldinho.

One of the greatest to ever pull on a Chelsea shirt, Frank Lampard should be credited by the fans and club when he arrives with Manchester City today. It would be a touch of class for the club to do something similar to when Drogba returned with Galatasaray  and present him with a commendation.

Lampard was so often a player Chelsea turned to

The free-scoring central midfielder was ever graceful in his time at the Blues, someone many looked to as a model professional. Before the boo boys label him a traitor, they must remember that it was not Lampard who wanted to leave Chelsea, it was the other way round. The club deemed him a player that was not needed and at times looked like they were poorly treating a club legend.

Lampard's perfectly timed runs on the edge of the box, dictating of play and long range strikes became trademark Lampard at Chelsea and was so often a sight fans were use to seeing. It is strange to have him in anything but a Chelsea shirt but, even if it is in the colours of a direct rival he should still get the respect a record top scorer, model professional and legend should get upon a return home.

Lusting for Lacazette

"What is the name of that Welshman at Real Madrid? I think Alexandre is much better than him." This is the verdict of Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas when discussing his prized asset. In France, there is one man taking the plaudits for his form in the first half of the season. You would be forgiven for thinking it was one of the usual suspects from PSG's star studded line up such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic or Edinson Cavani.

 However, Alexandre Lacazette of Lyon's form has seen him develop into Ligue 1's man to mark and has even caught the eye of some of Europe's heavyweights. A January move is unlikely due to a thigh injury picked up ruling him out for the coming weeks but, the likes of Liverpool, PSG, Tottenham and Arsenal are suggested to be lining up bids for the Frenchman.  

Lyon are currently sitting pretty at the top of Ligue 1 and their form has been massively down to the heroics of their star striker Lacazette. The pacey little forward has 21 goals to his name in just 22 league appearances and Lyon's title credentials will be very much tested now Lacazette faces a period on the sidelines.

Lacazette is hot property 

While Lacazette has been one of the more exciting players in France for sometime now, it is this year the 23 year old has really grabbed the headlines. On the ball, Lacazette is a natural dribbler twinned with his flair he can give defenders nightmares. Quick and able to change direction with blistering acceleration, the Lyon front man is comfortable out wide on the left, right or playing through the centre. 

But where will he end up? Lacazette has even had to speak out about his future following months of intense speculation. He said: "Between England and Spain, I don't have a preference. I dreamt about Barca when I was little, but once you grow up you know you cannot be on just one club."

Lacazette is a French international and has four caps

However, there is hope for clubs outside of France in their pursuit. Lacazette soon addressed links to the Parc des Princes and said: "PSG? We will see, it is hard the answer that now. To play with Ibrahimovic and Lucas, I cannot say that I cannot see myself in this attack but it would more likely be a departure abroad. Afterwards, you never know what might happen." 

Where ever the destination Lacazette ends up, he will not come cheaply. Both president and manager of Lyon know that he is hot property and if they hold him in the same regard as Gareth Bale, who knows what sort of astronomical fee they could ask for. At 23 years of age the French international has his career ahead of him and is likely to move in the summer as his form suggests he has outgrown Lyon. Should Lyon be saying their au revoirs soon? 

MLSellout

Juventus forward Sebastian Giovinco has signed for Toronto FC, joining the MLS side at the end of the season on a free to become the highest paid player in league history. However, at the age of 27, the Italian has sold out his career as there were competitive sides rumoured to be interested in his services.

In today's modern game, money talks. There have been a number of examples were players have traded loyalty, competition and their careers for financial gain. Giovinco is the latest example of such a trend in football.

Giovinco will become the highest paid Italian player and is going to quadruple the wage he was earning at the Turin club. His five year contract will earn him a basic wage of seven million euros with add ons amounting to around two and a half million euros. He was previously earning two and a half  million euros at Juventus, a microscopic wage to what he is set to earn.

The Juventus academy product's agent spoke out not so long and said there were several clubs vying for his signature. The likes of Lyon and Fiorentina were touted by the media as interested parties but, Giovinco has opted for the Canadian side.  

Giovinco was not present at the unveiling

However, the "Atomic Ant" is not a player coming to the end of his career looking for one final pay day in an exotic location. Giovinco is a fully fledged Italian international, capped 21 times and was included in Italy's recent friendly against Albania.

Although often on the fringes of the Italian national side and not included in the Italian world cup squad, Giovinco has effectively ended his international career. Moving to a side like Toronto FC will make it hard for Antonio Conte to seriously consider him for future squads.

Giovinco has not been a first team player for the Old Lady for sometime now, in recent seasons finding game time very rare. It was definitely time for Giovinco to leave the club but, to forfeit top level football for a nice pay check at his age and with his ability is a huge mistake.  

Giovinco has found game time at Juventus hard to come by

The diminutive little attacker is blessed with great pace and is certainly a tricky customer however, he often tries to do the spectacular when the simple option is best. If Giovinco could get his head up more often instead of taking on another player, the Italian would be a real asset to many European sides.

MLS supporters will argue this is just another example of the growing popularity of football outside of Europe. Players of ability moving out to the likes of the MLS and Indian Super League is just part of the growing trend and it can be argued that Giovinco is just part of that. Toronto boast a star studded squad too, with the likes of Micheal Bradley formerly of Roma and Jermain Defoe previously of Tottenham and on loan at Sunderland both on their books.

Giovinco has chased the money with his move to Toronto. It is ashame to see a player of his calibre cash in rather than challenge himself at another top European club. Such a move will do good for the MLS and will attract yet more people to keep an eye on the league however. Money's voice was louder than the voice of reason in Giovinco's case...

The right Juan?

The transfer gossip columns have been going into meltdown this January window and of late the popular story in circulation suggests that Juan Cuadrado of Fiorentina could be heading to Chelsea. The Blues already have an abundance of attacking flair in their ranks but are rumoured to be keen on the Columbian having reportedly had an initial bid already rejected. But is this a good move for the club?

If the arrival of another attacking midfielder is impending with Chelsea also heavily linked with Douglas Costa of Shakhtar Donetsk, then manager Jose Mourinho will no doubt be looking to thin the squad out before purchasing. The "Special one" already has Eden Hazard, Oscar, Willian, Andre Schurrle and Mohammad Salah competing for a trio of spots in his favoured 4-2-3-1 formation. 

Oscar, Willian and Hazard are the favoured three in Mourinho's starting eleven, so it appears Schurrle or Salah could be on their way out. According to the sources, it is believed that Schurrle wants a move back to native Germany with Wolfsburg being his suggested suitors. Egyptian international Salah is said to be close to a loan move to Roma, having previously been offered up to Monaco and Atletico Madrid having spent much of his Chelsea career a fringe player.   

Reports suggest Cuadrado is keen on a move to London

However, both sets of managers have played down speculation.  Mourinho said: "There are no marked men. I think he fits well in the Fiorentina squad, and in the Columbia squad, but not the Chelsea squad."    

Fiorentina's manager Vincenzo Montella had his say on the matter too, making it clear the Columbian is not a player he wants to lose. "He's got a buyout clause that he signed with the club, but if any club comes in and pays that, he will leave even in the finals days of the transfer window."

The Italian manager then added: "Sadly that's the way it is. For me and the club though, Cuadrado is a player we cannot do without."

Both players careers at Chelsea hang in the balance

Would Cuadrado be a worthwhile signing however? The right sided attacker's buyout fee is a substantial £26.8 million and it is unlikely the Viola will accept anything below that price. If the 26 year old was to arrive at Stamford Bridge, it would pose serious competition to Willian's starting berth in the side.  

Critics will argue that Willian's industrial side to the game is pivotal to Chelsea, as although the Brazilian has so far failed to deliver in the final third, his ability to get up and down the flank is important to Chelsea's balance as a side. Branislav Ivanovic poses a threat down the right side and is only able to bomb forward like he does knowing that Willian works just as hard to cover the Serbian.

However, the Columbian is more than match for the hard work Mourinho demands all his players give to the side. During defensive plays, Chelsea set up with 10 players behind the ball, the wingers expected to contribute to both defensive and attacking moves.    

Cuadrado had an impressive world cup in Brazil

Cuadrado, naturally a right back moved to right wing under Montella is defensively apt. He also arguably offers more in the final third than Willian having tied with Toni Kroos for most assists at the 2014 world cup. His pace and flair make him more than a handful for defenders.     

Cuadrado and Willian have a similarities in their game, both boosting natural agility and fleet of foot. They share lightweight frames and are pocket sized however, the Columbian is more direct with his dribbling and has more than a trick or two in his arsenal as he so often beats his opposing marker.

It is now a question of whether Chelsea are willing to take a expensive risk on a player untested in England to replace Willian, a player many regard as influential to Chelsea. Although Cuadrado has the potential to improve the London based side, such a signing will not come cheaply for Mourinho. This transfer story is certainly "Juan" to watch.  

A frustrating Frenchman

Hull manager Steve Bruce has said that on loan French winger Hatem Ben Arfa has played his last game for the club. Not welcomed at parent club Newcastle following several bust ups with manager Alan Pardew, Ben Arfa currently finds himself in a club limbo, becoming a free agent in the summer.

Just 4 months into his loan at the KC stadium and Bruce has called time on his brief spell. Bruce gave his damning verdict and said: "He won't be coming back here, that's all I can say. I'm disappointed more than anything." 

"We brought him in on a wave of publicity and there has been no fall-out or slanging match. His views of the game are different to mine. At any club you need to have a certain work ethic to get in the team. That's the frustrating thing. 

"I hope Hatem takes in what I've had to say to him because his talent is there for all to see. But talent without hard work means you won't live up to your potential."  

Ben Arfa's loan spell has ended terribly

A player once labelled a French prodigy, Ben Arfa's career has never truly lived up to the expectations that many had of him. In the early days of his career at Lyon, he had many top European suitors and his talent was clear to see. 

When he arrived at England, it was considered a coup by Newcastle with many stunned that the Tyneside club had pulled off a loan move for the Frenchman. Arriving after a sour ending with Marseille despite winning a Ligue 1 title, Ben Arfa's debut season in England was promising as he showcased his talent, prompting Newcastle to make it a permanent deal.

However, Ben Arfa suffered a leg break the season after. After a long recovery, Ben Arfa only showed glimpses of the talent we had previously seen. .Ben Arfa going forward is a real threat but, defensively he is lethargic and poor. Often seen casually strolling around the pitch, Ben Arfa is often a target for the boo boys in the terraces.

Off the pitch, Ben Arfa has been described as "difficult," having had a number of bust ups with team mates and staff. His lack of discipline has given the impression to many that he cares more for night life than he does for putting the hours in on the training ground.

Ben Arfa rarely shows what he is capable of doing

A loan move to Hull looked like a deal that could have been a real success for Ben Arfa. A fresh start, away from the previous broken relationships at Newcastle where he was demoted to the reserves. Ben Arfa had the chance to get his head down and get back to the Ben Arfa of many years ago.

However, it just hasen't happened, so much so Bruce wants to call time on his stay at the club. Ben Arfa has squandered a golden opportunity to put himself in the shop window for potential suitors come the summer when he leaves Newcastle on a Bosman.

Both Ben Arfa and Karim Benzema had the same footballing nurturing, having came out of the Lyon academy and played together in the French youth national teams but, could not contrast in their careers much more.

Some still have hope that Ben Arfa, at age 27, could finally find a club where he properly integrates himself into the side. The winger needs to realise he is part of a team rather than an individual. Ben Arfa's career is a frustrating one, a tale of missed opportunities and bust ups. Fans of the tricky Frenchman will hope the frustration will come to an end with his next career move.

Tactics dossier: Further Fabregas?

Although still early in season, it wouldn't be premature to think that the Premier League title could be heading to Stamford Bridge. Having made two blockbuster signings in Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa, Mourinho has added a new dimension to a already strong Chelsea side. Suggestions are rife that this squad could replicate the feats of Arsenal's "Invincibles" with the side yet to lose in the league however, are not impenetrable.

Chelsea do concede goals, having let in eleven in thirteen games. Defensively, Chelsea look sound with arguably one of the best keepers in Europe between the sticks in Thibaut Courtios which has even seen the number one of last decade Petr Cech relegated to the bench. Mourinho's first choice back four of Branislav Ivanovic, Gary Cahill, John Terry and Cesar Azpilicueta are well structured and hard to break down too. 

So how is it Chelsea still concede goals? In Mourinho's 4-2-3-1 formation, the Portuguese manager demands every player works hard during defensive passages of play, with everyone tracking a man and their runs. It is a philosophy that is well drilled and organised throughout the team however, it does not suit certain players.  

Every player is required to contribute to defensive moves

Nemanja Matic in front of the back four in the midfield two next to Fabregas has been a unsung hero, often winning the ball and breaking down play only to lay it off to the more creative team mates who make the headlines. It is the Serbian who during attacking moves sits in and allows his more creative midfield partner Fabregas to advance forward and join the attack. 

Arguably Chelsea's best player this year after Diego Costa, Cesc Fabregas has been a real hit with the Blues. His vision and pin point passing often carves open defences and it is unlikely Costa would have so many goals if it was not for Fabregas feeding him. In thirteen Premier League games Fabregas has 10 assists, a record at this point in the season and is well on his way to breaking Thierry Henry's record of twenty assists in one season.   

However, despite his stand out performances it is become clear that Cesc Fabregas is defensively frail. During counter attacks Fabregas is often out of position, more attracted to the ball rather than picking up his man. It seems as if he lacks the stamina and positional sense that Matic has to consistently track and mark men when Chelsea don't have the ball. Fabregas sitting in front of the defence when Chelsea are defending seems to be the Achilles heel in a team that lacks any real weakness.  

Fabregas has two goals to his name for Chelsea

At Anfield, Emre Can twice broke through midfield and eventually punished Chelsea scoring the opener for Liverool, with Fabregas at fault as he let the German drive through midfield. In the Blues' most recent fixture away at Sunderland, towards the end of the match Sunderland were breaking through midfield as Fabregas trailed behind. There is no way the returning Mourinho could ever drop a player of Fabregas' calibre, so what would be a remedy to the situation? 

Could swapping Oscar with Fabregas, putting the Spaniard in the number 10 position behind the striker help the situation? Oscar looks more suited to the central midfield role than Fabregas defensively as his work rate is one of the best in the side and even for a number 10, the Brazilian is a top tackler with his terrier-like hustling of opposition players. In 2012-2013, he was Chelsea's 3rd top tackler and won more than his attacking team-mates combined. 

It was that season, when Rafa Benitez was briefly in charge the rumours were that on the training ground the now Napoli manager was trying to mould Oscar into a central midfielder, making the Brazilian international pay close attention to Frank Lampard. There is no doubting that Oscar has the capability to play in the central role as he has all the necessary skills to succeed there.  

Fabregas represented Spain at the world cup this year

Playing Fabregas further forward and closer to Diego Costa could also improve the chemistry these two have shown in the early season. Fabregas would be allowed to get space and feed Costa and wingers like Eden Hazard, Willian and Andre Schurrle with the sort of through balls their pace thrives on. Although the ex-Barcelona man will still have defensive duties, there would be another line of defensive before an opposition attacking move reached the likes of Terry and Cahill. 

However, in doing so there are a number of cons. Moving Fabregas further forward could see the side lack a player that can dictate the play in the middle of the park. Not only that, but by moving him in the number 10 role it would restrict him to playing shorter more intricate passes rather than the long and switching balls that have had such success this year.  

Oscar has been in fine form this year for Chelsea

Fabregas' best quality is no doubt his range of passing and to utilise this to it's fullest extent he would be best played in the central midfield role next to Matic. However, this has been proven to be penetrable. It could also be argued that Oscar, a player who arrived from Internacional as a winger, is more suited to the number 10 role than Fabregas as he is better with the ball at his feet. 

It truly is a conundrum tactically. Does Mourinho sacrifice his star midfield man for defensive reassurance and play him further forward, swapping him for a player that although untested competitively in the central midfield role has the necessary skills to succeed? It is food for thought for Blues fans!    

Wheelchair for Wilshere

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has been ruled out for 3 months following ankle surgery on a injury he picked up in the Gunners' clash with Manchester United. The setback could not come at a worse time for Wilshere, a man who was enjoying a purple patch of form for club and country.

However, the physio room has become a home away from home for the twenty-two year old who during his short career since making his debut in 2008 has spent a hundred and ninety weeks on the treatment table.

Almost every time Wilshere goes down in a heap on the floor fans have the immediate reaction that the fragile ankles of the midfielder may once again have buckled.  Although clearly a top English talent, many wonder do the consistent injuries pose a risk to the potential Wilshere has?

Wilshere has one goal in nine this Premier League campaign

The England international is also a player a player that is either under criticism or enjoying a streak of hot form. At the start of the season, Wilshere was public enemy number one following pictures of him smoking (not the first time either) on holiday leaving many doubting Wilshere was truly committed to his profession and even had some suggesting his attitude would hold him back from unlocking his true potential.

A slow start in terms of personal performance had many believing Wilshere was never going to reach the heights people had expected and even saw icon Paul Scholes deliver a venomous verdict. Scholes said:  "Jack Wilshere, he came on the scene and what a top player he looked, but he’s never really gone on. He needs people like Vieira to take him to the next level. His development, he doesn’t look any better now than he did at 17." 

However, it was not long before he had many of critics eating their own words as he put in stellar performances for England and Arsenal. Wilshere is a fine example of how fickle the footballing world can be and it was not long before Scholes took back his statement and suggested Wilshere was currently England's best player and based on those performances was a fair analysis.   

That infamous picture

The Arsenal academy product is a player more than capable of playing intricate and beautiful short passing but also possess the rugged drive to dribble the ball at players and get stuck in defensively. If injuries were to hinder his career progressing it would be a huge blow to the Gunners' faithful who have watched Wilshere develop from a promising teen into a mature first team player. 

A fan favourite, Wilshere will be looking to get off the treatment table as soon as possible and get right back to playing. If history is doomed to repeat itself, Wilshere will return too soon and pick up another frustrating injury that could further set him back. The twenty-two year old will need time to get back into the swing of things following surgery and many will be hoping that after this setback Wilshere will begin to put his plague of injuries behind him. Should it be Jack Wilshere or Jack Wheelchair? Only time will tell! 

The Danny Debate

"He was not a line-up player; he was more substitute than line-up." This was Louis Van Gaal's critical summary of Danny Welbeck's previous squad status at Manchester United. Danny Welbeck joined rivals Arsenal in the summer for a fee of £16m and sparked a major debate in England. Was Van Gaal spot on with his views or was selling a mistake?

Van Gaal has opted to spend big in an attempt to get instant success, something that is much needed following the previous season of disappointment. In doing so, Van Gaal saw it necessary to sell Welbeck and gamble on the fitness of hired gun Radamel Falcao.  

A player with unquestionable ability following his years in Europe tormenting defences, the Columbian has fitness doubts following a serious knee injury in January that robbed him of a world cup campaign and huge wage demands following his arrival from billionaire backed Monaco, who were recently ordered to pay £50m in an attempt to coincide with French tax laws and remain in Ligue 1. 

But, to accommodate such a house hold name, Manchester United found themselves with more strikers than sense, with Wayne Rooney, Robin Van Persie, Jamie Wilson and soon loaned Javier Hernandez all vying for a spot. Welbeck was deemed the lesser of the bunch and was sufficiently sacrificed. Van Gaal's policy to develop youth has seen Jamie Wilson feature in the side this year.

A Welbeck hatrick sunk Galatasaray in the UCL 

The sale brought a mixed reaction. Many fans questioned why the club had put in so much effort to coach and create a player of Welbeck's quality if they are to ultimately sell them to aid rivals in what many pundits believed was a cut-price fee. Fans had watched the Englishman develop from a clumsy, gangly and frustrating forward into a striker that was considered a important player to Sir Alex Ferguson and a fully fledged international. 

It makes you wonder, would Sir Alex Ferguson have sold Danny Welbeck? The answer is no. In charge for 25 years, Ferguson avoided selling big stars to rivals and placed huge faith in the Manchester United academy, something that seems to be lost a little with Van Gaal's desperation for a silverware remedy. Furthermore, it makes you wonder if assistant manager Ryan Giggs supported the Dutch manager''s decision having witnessed Welbeck play since he was a junior and develop into a team mate. 

There was a reason Welbeck featured often under Van Gaal's Scottish predecessors David Moyes and Sir Alex Ferguson. He would work hard  for the team, even if goals didn't always come you could count on Welbeck to give his all, hassle defenders on the ball and chase after loose balls. He would make runs that created space for others and was versatile also, able to adapt to the wings and even behind the striker.  Under Moyes, you could see Welbeck's frustration playing out wide but, he would often do a job out wide even if it wasn't spectacular. Moyes favoured him out wide but it brought little success moving a striker to the wing.   

The Dutchman waved goodbye to Welbeck this summer

There is no doubting Welbeck needs to add more goals to his game and was a common theme at Old Trafford. He did not score enough for a striker of Manchester United's quality and would often squander chances players like Van Persie and Rooney thrived on. But, he would more than often feature in the big games as managers knew he would work hard and put in a solid performance even if he didn't hit the back of the net.  

A rival of Manchester United and no doubt a serious contender that the Red Devil's will need to be wary of in the battle for a champion's league spot, selling to Arsenal aided the enemy in the sale. Desperate for a natural central striker with just Oliver Giroud and Yaya Sanago the only two, it looked as if the conservative Arsene Wenger was content to head into the season with a paper thing forward line.  

However, the Gunners left it to the last minute to secure the deal on deadline day. If Manchester United had not sold, Arsenal would have been seriously fragile and most likely in big trouble as it was not long until Giroud succumbed to injury. The sale in that sense, was a mistake as they had given a huge boost to the London based club. If Van Gaal was desperate to sell, he should have looked abroad for suitors or sold to a club that would not be threat to Manchester United.  

Welbeck has developed into a international regular in recent years

However, Welbeck has not had the impact he would have wanted at Arsenal in the early days at his new side, much to the annoyance of Arsenal fans. Just two goals and in nine appearances in the Premier League, Welbeck has not hit the back of net as many times as people thought he would now he was playing in his favoured central striker role and getting regular game time.  

Those who support Van Gaal's sale point to the £16m man's lack of goals, but it would be premature to write off Welbeck as a flop at his point. Still only 23, Welbeck can still produce for Arsenal for some time and his form for England of late suggests he could become the goal scorer he has not yet been at top flight level. 

The question remains unanswered still and only time will tell if Louis Van Gaal's decision was a stroke of genius or a mindless sale to a rival. Will Manchester United be left red faced over the transfer or is Welbeck not gunner deliver? 

Magnificent Marcelo

Real Madrid's Brazilian left back Marcelo is a man in form. Much like Real Madrid at the moment, Marcelo is flying high on form and has been one of the stand out players of Los Blanco's sensational early season goal frenzy. Marcelo has registered 5 assists in 13 La LIga and Champions League games.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti's transfer policy this summer has been questioned by many after the club sold key members of squad such as Xabi Alonso and Angel Di Maria to accommodate their summer blockbuster signing James Rodriguez who was signed off of the back of fantastic personal world cup again.

However, so far it is the Italian who has had the last laugh over his sceptics as Real Madrid sit top of the table and have scored 37 goals in 10 games, with much credit going to none other than a certain Cristano Ronaldo who has chalked up 17 goals in La Liga.  

Competitive and robust, Marcelo is enjoying a purple patch of form

Although it is likes of Ronaldo who grab the headlines for Real Madrid, Marcelo's contribution from the left flank can often go unnoticed among a sea of global stars. His industrial work at full back sees him get up and down the pitch for the full ninety and more often of not involved in Real Madrid's attacking moves. Unafraid to take on defenders either, Marcelo can be a dangerously under rated dribbler with the ball with his quick feet and acceleration.

Marcelo's seemingly telepathic understanding with Karim Benzema means that the little Brazilian often delivers drilled crosses that are a real handful for defenders but, are exactly what strikers like Benzema thrive on. Five assists is nothing to be sniffed at from full back and credit to the left back who adds to the attack and creates problems for teams out wide. Marcelo's chemistry with Ronaldo down the left creates havoc for defences as they play clever give and go's or Marcelo creates space for Ronaldo by acting as a over lapping full back.

Down the left flank, these two have a real understanding

Of course,  the 26 year old does not come without his obvious weaknesses, being a attack minded full back defending often comes Marcelo's second priority. He can also be impatient and rash in the challenge rather than stand a attacker up, giving a way silly fouls trying to win the ball when it is not always necessary to do so. Marcelo has a tendency to pick up cautions but, domestically has only picked up just the one this season.

Marcelo has performed when it has mattered too, delivering man of the match performances in big games such as the El Clasico and their latest  Champions League tie with Liverpool. Marcelo will be looking to continue his run of form as will Real Madrid as they look to dethrone local rivals Atletico Madrid as La Liga champions. Marcelo is little in stature but big in form right now!

Clyneing for a cap

Nathaniel Clyne believes he is good enough to feature in the England side for the future European qualifier against Slovenia and the friendly tie with Scotland. Ever- present in Ronald Koeman;s impressive Southampton side, Clyne well and truly deserves his place in the national set-up. England's right back position is a place of uncertainty, lacking a player to lay claim to the spot.

Clyne said in a recent interview: "It's always good to play for your country, if you play well then you get picked up. I think I've got the ability to play for my country, definitely. I'm playing with lots of confidence."

England manager Roy Hodgson has experimented with a number of right backs including Glen Johnson, Calum Chambers, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and John Stones during his reign. Clyne's form in domestic games has been one of steady rise following his move to St Mary's from Crystal Palace. Yet another player from Southampton looks set to get capped for England following the additions of Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez last year and recently Arsenal's Chambers, a Southampton youth product.

Clyne, like Southampton, has been in great form

With more squad players joining the England national side, it speaks volumes for Southampton. A club that has gone strength to strength since arriving in the league, Southampton could well challenge for a place in Europe if early season form is to believed. Clyne won't be the last player to get called up either, as Jay Ward-Prowse has been ear marked as a future England star amongst the other talents in their notorious youth system.

Koeman's blistering start to the Premier League has proved many sceptics wrong after the fire sale of stars such as Dejan Lovren, Lallana and Lambert leaving for Liverpool, Chambers & Luke Shaw to Arsenal and Manchester United respectively and even saw stars like Morgan Schnerdlein try to jump ship. However, Southampton spent the money raised in a savvy business fashion, using Koeman's expansive knowledge of the Dutch Eredivisie to import top talent while maintaining the home grown philosophy and dipping into the talent pool of the youth system.

Koeman's start sees Southampton 2nd after 10 games

Graziano Pelle, a player Koeman previously worked with at Feyenoord, has been a real hit and even earned him a call up to the Italian national side. Dusan Tadic and Sadio Mane have also settled right into the south coast's side and look like two class captures.

Nathaniel Clyne could well nail a regular spot in the England side by replicating the solid performances he has produced for Southampton. The national side need to start finding first choice players in positions during this time of transition after the expected retirements of players post- world cup. Clyne is a player who could feature for years to come and has the talent to be a threat going forward but also defensively sound. Can Clyne claim a spot?

Alexandre on Song

It would be wrong to suggest that when West Ham announced the loan signing of Alexandre Song from Barcelona that a few eyebrows were not raised. Many were questioning how manager Sam Allardyce could manage to pull off such a deal and if he was still Premier League standard having spent a large part of his Barcelona experience on the bench. Others were curious about whether or not such a loan would damage the club's financial infrastructure with the Hammers paying a percentage of his £75,000 a week wage.

However, the Cameroon international's performances so far this season have turned all sceptics into believers. West Ham currently sit in 4th position in the Premier League and it is Song who has been at the corner stone of that success. Although it is often the likes of Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho grabbing the headlines, it is Song who is dictating the play in the middle of the park.

Yet to register a assist or a goal, the majority of West Ham's play seems to flow through the former Arsenal midfielder. Strong, combative and with a stocky build suited to a defensive midfielder, Song is every bit as good going forward as he is tracking back. Despite coming through the Bastia youth ranks as a defensive midfielder, Song's game evolved under Arsene Wenger into a more rounded midfielder, with former Cameroon coach Javier Clemente stating: "He is a much better player in attack than he is defensively."  

Song has been one of many in form West Ham players

It was in his and Robin Van Persie's final season at the Emirates that the two created a incredible understanding, with Song finishing the season on 11 assists and earning a transfer to Barcelona. One observation of that notable personal season Song had, going forward meant he would sometimes forget his defensive duties. Although his time at the Nou Camp did not quite work out, Song has come back just as strong it seems and by the looks of things, West Ham have pulled off a real coup getting him in on loan.

The project Allardyce has in mind is something that Song himself admitted tempted him into turning down the likes of Napoli and Galatasary. Song said upon arrival: “West Ham is looking to be a very, very big club in the future. The club has a great project and it is a very big project with very big ambition. I think it’s great for the fans that the club wants to be one of the biggest in England. That’s why I chose to come here." 

If Allardyce can work the same sort of magic he used to lure Song to Upton Park in the first place to secure a permanent transfer, then the club will seriously be making a statement about their future intent. Signing a talent such as Song's will speak volumes for the club and with the clever business they have completed over the summer, could be in contention for a Europa League spot. Song does have his weaknesses, having demonstrated poor discipline at the World Cup as he elbowed an opposition player and saw red and can sometimes forget his defensive duties if he is played in a more attacking central midfield role.  

A rare and tranquil photo of Allardyce 

However, with the way Song has played so far, other big clubs may become interested for a player that is more than likely to leave Barcelona at the end of his loan spell. It is no secret that Arsenal are lacking a strong and combative central midfielder and a return to the Emirates would be more than appealing for Song. Signing the midfielder would be exactly what the Gunners so desperately need and fans cry out for.   

Even if Song being a West Ham player is for just the one season, West Ham fans still have a lot to look forward to under Allardyce who seems to finally have cracked the winning formula in his side following a difficult start to his reign. West Ham are on song for a exciting season, if you will pardon the pun...