Thursday, 13 September 2012
As my busy work schedule forces me to carefully ration out my blog postings like a weight-watching worker at a soup kitchen, I increasingly find myself having relying on these 'post-digests' to cram everything notable into a single bite-sized form.
Earlier in the Spring I brought you one such digest on the early 2012 London theatre scene. Well I am pleased to say that even as my writing efforts are on the wane, my commitment to enjoying the London stage remains strong. Here for your entertainment is a summer update, covering the essentials of London theatre these past few months:
"Gatz" Theatre Review
Directed by John Collins
Written by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Starring Scott Shepherd, Jim Fletcher, Susie Sokol
Theatre Noël Coward Theatre
New York's Elevator Repair Service theatre company have put together a new adaption of F. Scott Fitzgerald's most famous novel, the Great Gatsby. Only this is no adaption, it's the entire novel, acted out before a live audience. Yes, this production is eight hours long in total, plus a one and a half hour break for dinner, and presents for your enjoyment the entirety of the novel, word for word.
"Why would someone do this?" You might ask. Well the Great Gatsby is not just a famous novel, it's a novel that's equally famous for its failed attempts at adapting to other media. There have been other plays and films, but not one has done it justice.
Aficionados will tell you that it's the loss of F. Scott Fitzgerald's unique sway of language that makes the text so difficult to adapt. That's the rationale behind this ambitious production which utilizes the entire novel unabridged. Fortunately it's a production decision that has turned out to be absolute brilliance.
Make no mistake, this is not just an evening out to see a show, this is the whole day. Not there just for passing entertainment, one feels as though they are participating as much as the performers. The good news is that this production is easily worth the time. In fact, after bracing myself for something of an ordeal, the whole afternoon passed by in what seemed no longer than an ordinary stage play. Such is the slickness of this production that proceedings rarely seemed to drag at all throughout it's eight hour run.
It's a great novel and excellently rendered by the cast, with particular regard to narrator/Nick Carraway played by Scott Shepherd who allegedly has the entire book memorised. But this is more than just a dry reading of a classic work; the production itself is set in what appears a mundane office enviroment, Shepherd sits at a desk typing away, casually sneaking a quick read of Gatsby while his co-workers wander around tending to their own business.
As we draw deeper into the novel, the setting begins to mimic the events laid out on page until we reach a point where the entire office space is simply acting out the novel itself. This dynamic is used very effectively, often with a good sense of humour as it contributes to the full audience experience. Rightly so, when you're making an entire day out of a theatre trip, you need to offer more than just the basic narrative for sustenance.
So while it may sound a bit much, this is one production I can not recommend highly enough. It is one of the best things I've seen in theatre this year, and some of the most fun I've had at the theatre as far back as I can remember.
"Timon of Athens" Theatre Review
Directed by Nicholas Hytner
Written by William Shakespeare
Starring Simon Russell Beale
Theatre Royal National Theatre
He is on form again with Timon of Athens, one of Shakespeare's lesser known plays. Timon sets himself as the generous and spendthrift heart of Athens social culture, until suddenly he finds himself short on credit, and is promptly abandoned by all his fair weather friends and opportunists.
It's an important story, and one that is as typically and impeccably produced by the National Theatre company as it is strongly acted. But the real distinguishing element is how topical and current the setting feels. Nominally set in Athens, the NT's stage production is visually and contextually placed squarely in the skyscrapers and galas of the London financial district.
You don't have to be obsessively plugged into current events to see how such a story might fit in to the current state of the economy, and from the sterile boardrooms to swanky art galleries and soho clubs, the production hits very close to home. As the story progresses, this opulence quickly transforms to the focus on the social inequity crisis, complete with allusions to the prominent Occupy movement. It's hard to believe that this was written so long ago.
All this makes for a remarkable feat of an old play, and great credit must be given to director Nicholas Hytner. At the same time, it serves as just another example of how a well written play can remain timelessly relevant.
Monday, 3 September 2012
It's been a glorious summer of sport with Euro 2012 and the Olympics to tide us over, one could almost be forgiven for barely noticing that club football had even ended. Not me though, I am raring and ready to go for the new season, and I know you are too.
As per usual the Ephemeric is here to run the rule over every team in the Premier League and render a few solid predictions. Read on for the ultimate preview of what awaits us these next nine months.
Premier League 2011/12 in a nutshell:
Champions: Manchester United
Champions League qualifiers: Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea
Relegated: QPR, Southampton, Norwich
Golden Boot winner: Robin Van Persie (Man U)
Golden Glove winner: Joe Hart (Man City)
Player to watch: Carlos Tevez (Man City)
New signing to watch: Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
Young player to watch: Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
First manager to get the sack: Mark Hughes (QPR)
Shock of the season: Arsenal wins something
ARSENAL
Nickname: The Gunners
Ground: Emirates Stadium
Capacity: 60,000
Position last season: 3rd
Manager: Arsene Wenger
The Arsenal faithful could be forgiven for bringing up the famous Yogi Berra quote "It's déjà vu all over again" as they once more watch a key player and club captain walk the silver-lined path to bigger things. But really who could blame Robin Van Persie? The last ten players to leave the Emirates have won nine league titles, three Champions Leagues and twenty two other titles between them, while over the same time period Arsenal have won bupkis.
But this is not necessarily a time of crisis for the club. Every season Arsenal seem to find themselves in a similar position, and yet they always manage to pull through and maintain their place on the fringe of the Premier League's top tier clubs. Arsene Wenger deserves a lot of credit for this.
This season the club have even been uncharacteristically active in the transfer market, spending one excess of £40 million on the likes of Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and Santiago Cazorla. These look to be fine signings, but success is far from guaranteed; Podolski has struggled to live up to his potential in the German League, while Giroud comes from relative obscurity. Out of the three it's Cazorla who looks the safest bet to become a key player for the club.
Of the existing personnel, the return of Jack Wilshere after a nightmarish season in the physioroom will make a big difference, as will the fitness of new club captain Thomas Vermaelen. Fans will also be counting on the continued development of youngster Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Key Signing: Lukas Podolski
Key Man: Thomas Vermaelen
Verdict: A title challenge seems unlikely, but barring a major failing of the new blood, the club will still squeeze its way to a safe top 4 finish.
ASTON VILLA
Nickname: The Villans
Ground: Villa Park
Capacity: 42,593
Last season: 16th
Manager: Paul Lambert
In retrospect Alex McLeish was always going to have a tough time winning over the Villans, not least of all because of his controversial move from arch rivals Birmingham, fresh from getting them relegated. Indeed it turned out to be the worst fit for a club since Brian Clough went to Leeds. McLeish was promptly shown the door.
Enter stage left Paul Lambert, one of Britain's brightest young managerial prospects whose successful tenure in charge of Norwich culminated in a journey from the depths of the lower leagues to mid table safety in the Premier League last season.
Lambert's task is a difficult one. The club has been on a downward spiral ever since Martin O'Neill quit, and most of the team he had created has followed him out the door. Lambert's job description entails no less than a major rebuild. Six new players have already been signed..
Key Signing: Karim El-Ahmadi
Key Man: Darren Bent
Verdict: A year of transition for an under performing club. Lambert is undoubtedly capable of doing the job, but one shouldn't expect miracles too quickly.
CHELSEA
Nickname: Blues
Ground: Stamford Bridge
Capacity: 42,449
Last season: 6th
Manager: Roberto Di Matteo
Consistency has never been Chelsea's strong suit, but last season saw this habit taken to new extremes. On the one hand the club suffered a miserable 6th place finish in the league, but then they won two out of three major trophies, including an historic first ever Champions League title for a London club. Simultaneously their worst season in a decade and their best in the club's history.
Understandably then there is a great deal of uncertainty ahead of this season. The new manager is a club legend as a player, and as caretaker manager led the club to historic success last season. But there are serious doubts over how he will be able to cope with a full season in charge, with very different expectations upon him than when he took the reigns last Spring, with the club pretty much circling the drain. Add to this the fact that talismanic frontman Didier Drogba has finally moved on and Frank Lampard is on the decline and you can see that this promises to be a tumultuous year of transition. The days of the Mourinho old guard are finally coming to an end.
But on the bright side, the club have strengthened well this summer with Eden Hazard, one of the hottest prospects in European football, as well as young Brazilian hotshot Oscar and Marko Marin who once upon a time was the next big thing in Germany. Add to this the continued progress of youth products like Ryan Bertrand and Daniel Sturridge, amongst others, and this Chelsea team certainly has the look of a squad with big things ahead of it, even if not necessarily this season.
Of the existing squad, defensive stalwarts Ashley Cole, John Terry and Petr Cech remain key to this team's success, but the new focus appears to be very much on attacking football. Following the new signings this is a team that now appears over saturated in the attacking midfield area and it will be interesting to see how Di Matteo can fit them in. Elsewhere Fernando Torres has a make-or-brea season coming up following an inconsistent start to his Chelsea career. He showed great promise with strong performances particularly in the tail-end of last season when he scored his first hat trick as well as key goals on their way to Champions League glory. Winning the Golden Boot in Euro 2012 will have done wonders for his confidence but now he really has no excuse not to deliver.
Key Signing: Eden Hazard
Key Man: Petr Cech
Verdict: Lack of depth up front is a concern, with only the inconsistent Torres on the books as an out-and-out striker. Few would predict a title challenge for this young team so soon, but certainly the minimum expectation will be top four, any less will be a failure.
EVERTON
Nickname: Toffees
Ground: Goodison Park
Capacity: 40,170
Last season: 7th
Manager: David Moyes
Same old story for one of the most consistent teams in the league and one of the steadiest managers around. Probably the most important development for the club this summer has been David Moyes resisting the allure of Tottenham to stay put at Goodison. Moyes will now have another year to attempt a surge into European contention on a shoestring budget.
Tim Cahill's time at the club has come to an end, and Jack Rodwell has finally made his move to a bigger club with Manchester City his ultimate destination. On the other hand they have resigned Steven Pienaar who, despite there not being many Tottenham fans who are too sorry to see him leave, was once a solid player, and can be again. They have also signed Kevin Mirallas, one of the myriad of attacking midfielders in Belgium's "golden generation".
Following the Rodwell sale, Everton find themselves in the rare position of actually having money to spend, and still a few weeks in which to do it. However the most important move the club's management can make in the near future will be an extension of David Moyes' contract, now with one year left to run.
Key Signing: Kevin Mirallas
Key Man: Leighton Baines
Verdict: Again, will probably be around the same place as they end up every year, barring a miracle or a disaster.
FULHAM
Nickname: Cottagers
Ground: Craven Cottage
Capacity: 26,000
Last season: 9th
Manager: Martin Jol
Martin Jol did well to get this Fulham team into the top ten after their terrible start last season, but it would be foolish to rest on their laurels.
Indeed with the loss of Bobby Zamora last year and captain Danny Murphy this summer, there are holes all over the pitch that need filling. Fortunately the club have been active in bringing new firepower to the club. Hugo Rodallega joins from Wigan, and despite an awful last season he has impressed more often than not in recent years for a poor Wigan side. In addition Mladen Petric signs from Hamburg, and will be hoping to strike up a productive relationship with his manager, with whom he has worked in the past.
More concerning will be the overtures being directed towards Moussa Dembélé and Clint Dempsey, the later being one of the best players in the league last season. If Jol can keep ahold of those two, and keep them happy, then I foresee decent results this season, otherwise they could easily sink down the table, and fast.
Key Signing: Mladen Petric
Key Man: Clint Dempsey
Verdict: Very much contingent on certain players not leaving, but should achieve another comfortable mid table finish.
LIVERPOOL
Nickname: Reds
Ground: Anfield
Capacity: 45,362
Last season: 8th
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Another very poor season left the Reds in 8th place, and Kenny Dalglish without a job, patience having run thin despite his club legend status and Carling Cup victory.
The new man is the up-and-coming Brendan Rodgers, following successful stints with the Chelsea youth team and more prominently Swansea's successful first season in the top flight last year. The club has shown in recent years that it is not averse to taking a managerial risk on someone with little big-club experience. It hasn't worked well for them in the past, but fans will have fingers crossed that in this time they may finally have found the right man for the job.
They have coped well following the loss of Fernando Torres, though perhaps eyebrows will be raised at the club’s decision to blow more than two times the Torres income (£45m) on largely unproven players like Andy Carroll (£35m), Jordan Henderson (£20), Stewart Downing (£20) and Luis Suarez (£23); although in the case of Suarez, the money appears to have been well spent, the jury is still out on the rest.
Despite their underachievement in recent years it's hard to pinpoint exactly where this Liverpool side is faltering. In Pepe Reina they have a fine goalkeeper, Daniel Agger, Glen Johnson and Martin Skrtel make a fine back line. Instead their problems must lie up front; while Luis Suárez is an immensely talented player he doesn't have the physique to handle a lone striker's role without a backup. Meanwhile Stewart Downing on the wing was one of the disaster stories of last season.
The closest thing to a remedy this summer has been the signing of Italian youngster and Chelsea youth product Fabio Borini. Deemed surplus to needs at Stamford Bridge, Borini then went on to have a very successful season in the Championship with Brendan Rodgers at Swansea, before moving to Italy for two years. It looks like he finally has his shot at the Premier League. Elsewhere the club has signed youngster Joe Allen, also formally a Rodgers player at Swansea, who impressed recently at the Olympics for Team GB.
Key Signing: Joe Allen
Key Man: Luis Suárez
Verdict: Every season seems to be a new beginning for the club lately. As big a fan of Brendan Rodgers as I am, I would be surprised and impressed if he can pull off anything better than 5th or 6th place this season.
MANCHESTER CITY
Nickname: Blues
Ground: Etihad Stadium
Capacity: 48,000
Last season: Champions
Manager: Roberto Mancini
It was inevitable that heavy investment would yield success, and so it happened that Manchester City won the title after decades of waiting, and in the most dramatic way possible. You have to say they deserve it too, they simply have the greatest array of talent in the league right now, although Manchester United push them pretty close.
Roberto Mancini proved all the doubters wrong in some style, although in fairness with these kinds of resources Ian Dowie could probably win the title too. The squad has not been strengthened much at all this summer, and why would it with all the talent at their disposal? Despite this, it's likely that the club will be challenging once again at the top of the table. Instead the goal for Manchester City must be to push forward and attempt to make an impression in Europe finally. It's a tall ask and a big step up from the domestic league, but anything is possible.
Jack Rodwell is a fine, if largely superfluous singing, and the club will feel unfortunate to have missed out on Robin Van Persie. More interesting is the return to good graces of Carlos Tévez, seemingly on the way out after he refused to play for the club and practically went on strike. Now that City are Champions though, suddenly Manchester doesn't seem so bad and he looks set to become a key part of their attack.
Key Signing: I wouldn't call him key, but Jack Rodwell is the only one so far
Key Man: David Silva
Verdict: Will challenge again, but important to note that they only just squeaked it last year, and rivals United have improved over the summer. They have a great shot, but I don't predict back to back titles, a feat only achieved during the Premier League era by Chelsea and Manchester United.
MANCHESTER UNITED
Nickname: Red Devils
Ground: Old Trafford
Capacity: 76,000
Last season: 2nd
Manager: Sir Alex Ferguson
Luck just wasn't on their side as Manchester United found themselves trumped to the title in the dying seconds by a hungrier Manchester City side. But the fact still remains that this should have been United's title; with eight games to go they were comfortably in the lead, only to throw it away in a manner that is most uncharacteristic for an Alex Ferguson team.
The manner in which this grave defeat was inflicted more than anything will spur the club on this season, determined to set the record straight, and even though City may appear the stronger side on paper in many regards, it is hard to bet against United.
City have barely changed this summer, and will be relying on increased team cohesion and maturation of young talent to move forward. United on the other hand have strengthened well, with Dortmund's gifted Shinji Kagawa joining the squad along with Arsenal's star man Robin Van Persie. The club now boasts an embarrassment of attacking riches, including a fantasy pairing of Wayne Rooney and Van Persie.
Key Signing: Robin Van Persie
Key Man: Wayne Rooney
Verdict: Desperately unlucky to take the crown last time, but will begin the new season as favourites.
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Nickname: Magpies
Ground: St. James' Park
Capacity: 52,387
Last season: 5th
Manager: Alan Pardew
Last season proved to be an astonishing success story for Newcastle, who achieved a fantastic 5th place finish on only their second season back in the top flight. What's more impressive is how they managed it, with quality performances from a quality group of players. The club has strong management from Pardew and some astute player recruitment to thank for this success.
A top notch defence has formed, featuring the likes of Simpson, Taylor, the other Taylor and Krul in goal. Their midfield is exceptionally gifted, with Ben Arfa, Cabaye, Tioté and Gutiérrez. Meanwhile they managed to find two of the best signings of last season in the Senegalese striker partnership of Papiss Cissé and Demba Ba. This is no longer just a plucky newly promoted side, this is a team that can compete with the very best out there.
This season will be different however, with the increased weight of expectation and the wariness with which other clubs will now view Newcastle. Add to this the increased physical burden added by a European cup campaign and suddenly one might start to doubt whether the club has sufficient depth to compete at the same level. Fans will rightly be ebullient over last season's triumphs, but they would do well to approach this year with caution, as a similarly high finish in the table is far from certain, and such aspirations may in fact be doomed to disappointment.
Key Signing: Vurnon Anita
Key Man: Papiss Cissé
Verdict: Unlikely to achieve the same high standing as last season, but should at least manage high mid table.
NORWICH CITY
Nickname: The Canaries
Ground: Carrow Road
Capacity: 27,033
Last season: 12th
Manager: Chris Hughton
Last season was job done for the Canaries, and another impressive accomplishment for Paul Lambert, who has since moved on to a bigger and greater challenge at Aston Villa. Under new management, this season will be more difficult for the club, however in Chris Hughton they have chosen well, and placed the club in very capable hands.
That being said, they still face what is very much an uphill battle. So frequently we see clubs come up from the lower divisions and do ok in their first year, only to suffer second-season-itis and go right back down the next. This could easily happen to Norwich this year; a team with little top flight quality on paper, a loss of a talismanic manager, and despite Chris Hughton's best efforts, a real possibility for the drop.
A long season lies ahead, but Norwich are certainly not going to be pushovers.
Key Signing: Javier Garrido
Key Man: Grant Holt
Verdict: Staying in the Premier League will be a tough challenge. We were bullish over their chances last season, but this time not so much.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS
Nickname: The Hoops
Ground: Loftus Road
Capacity: 18,360
Last season: 17th
Manager: Mark Hughes
Despite their considerable resources, QPR only just managed to stay in the top flight last season. Neil Warnock was deemed not entertaining enough to stay at the club, and world class scowler Mark Hughes took his place.
To their credit they have made some very solid signings this summer, including Ryan Nelsen, Park Ji-Sung, Robert Green and José Bosingwa. Despite this much needed squad depth, they still have the look of a team against whom the odds of survival are very much stacked unfavourably. Add to that the fact that for the most part despite his reputation as a player Mark Hughes has yet to really shine as a manager in this league and you have the recipe for a club who look certain to at least be involved in the relegation tussle.
Let's not even mention Joey Barton.
Key Signing: Park Ji-Sung
Key Man: Adel Taraabt
Verdict: For all Mark Hughes' bluster he seems to have a very short life expectancy at his jobs, and there's a reason for that. Expect QPR to finish in or around relegation zone.
READING
Nickname: The Royals
Ground: Madejski Stadium
Capacity: 24,161
Last season: Promoted from Championship
Manager: Brian McDermott
Consistency is the name of the game at McDermott's Reading side, with many of these players having been together for a number of years now. This ability to form a cohesive unit has seen Reading improve greatly with each passing season, and last year they finally claimed their reward by running out as Champions of the Championship, earning promotion back to the top flight.
In addition they have the vast wealth of new owner Anton Zingarevich to fall back on, certainly not in the same league as the owners of Manchester City or Chelsea, but enough that the club has been able to bring in players with top flight experience straight away.
Yet Reading have still been made one of the favourites for the drop this season. It's true that they may not have the name recognition in club or manager or players of some of the other teams to be promoted in recent years, but write them off at your own peril. McDermott has proven himself a shrewd manager, and as QPR showed us, money can make a big difference in a relegation battle.
Key Signing: Danny Guthrie
Key Man: Adam Le Fondre
Verdict: Reading will be tough to beat, and even if they are struggling by January, they will invest heavy. A struggle awaits, but I expect the club to finish a little above relegation when all is said and done.
SOUTHAMPTON
Nickname: Saints
Ground: St. Mary's Stadium
Capacity: 32,690
Last season: Promoted from Championship
Manager: Nigel Adkins
The turnaround for this club has been remarkable. Having gone through a Leeds-esque collapse involving administration and multiple relegations, the fact that they have managed to claw their way back to the top flight is remarkable. It's manager Nigel Adkins who has seen them this far by forming one of the more resilient and physical sides of the lower divisions.
However the Premier League will be an entirely different beast, and the club now finds itself with a largely League One playing staff. It will take more than guts for them to stay up this season.
Fortunately the club has been quick to strengthen this summer with some real top flight quality, including Jay Rodriguez and Steven Davis. Meanwhile Crystal Palace's Nathaniel Clyne is a very bright talent with the England youth squad, and has long been tipped with a step up to the Premier League. The question is will this be enough considering the dearth of proven quality elsewhere in the squad compared to their rivals in the Premier League?
Key Signing: Steven Davis
Key Man: Adam Lallana
Verdict: Will be an incredible achievement if they manage to avoid relegation, but don't bet on it.
STOKE
Nickname: Potters
Ground: Britannia Stadium
Capacity: 28,384
Last season: 14th
Manager: Tony Pulis
Another impressive season for Pulis' Stoke City team. Now firmly established in the Premier League, Pulis has also brought this side to the FA Cup final and the Europa League. The question is how much further he can really take the club.
Stoke's rapid progress to where they are now has come at a cost, and the club finds itself saddled with players it can no longer afford, while also no longer being able to land marquee signings like Peter Crouch.
They've competed now at the highest level, they've done it while mounting a strong cup run and a solid European campaign. The question now is whether it can be done in a sustainable fashion, because despite their reasonable efforts people still aren't flocking to JD Sports to pick up the latest Stoke kit. This could be Pulis' greatest challenge yet, but if he can pull it off then it would be a massive step forward for the club.
Key Signing: Michael Kightly
Key Man: Peter Crouch
Verdict: A lower half of the table finish, but safe, just.
SUNDERLAND
Nickname: Black Cats
Ground: Stadium of Light
Capacity: 48,300
Last season: 13th
Manager: Martin O'Neill
A disastrous start to the season saw Steve Bruce make way for the incomparable Martin O'Neill. From years of watching the man one would be convinced that there is no ship he can not steady, and no right he can not put wrong. And so it happened that O'Neill's arrival saw a significant and immediate bounce in the club's fortunes, though somewhat tempered by an end of season lapse which saw the club end up in a disappointing 13th place.
There has been some alarm from Sunderland fans over the perceived lack of transfer activity this summer, but those fans would do well to remember the 30 odd players signed in the past three years that have done little to contribute to club stability. In addition, there is still the prospect of additional signings before the transfer window snaps shut, with a move for Wolves' Steven Fletcher supposedly on the cards.
This is a club which already possesses its fair share of talent, from Sessegnon to Mignolet and Cattermole to bright youngsters such as Colback, McClean and Wickham. With this team, and O'Neill in charge, the minimum expectation has to be a comfortable mid-table finish, with a potential push for Europa League places if one or two more signings are brought in.
Key Signing: Carlos Cuéllar
Key Man: Lee Cattermole
Verdict: Push for a Europa League place, but mid-table finish should be the minimum aim.
SWANSEA CITY
Nickname: The Swans
Ground: Liberty Stadium
Capacity: 20,532
Last season: 11th
Manager: Michael Laudrup
Something of a sensation in their first season in the top flight, Swansea managed to achieve top flight safety relatively early on. What was most impressive was the manner in which this was done, playing entertaining, attacking football, showing a confidence in the face of major opposition that belied their relatively low stature.
But now ex-Chelsea youth coach and Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers has moved on to giants Liverpool, and many of his charges are set to follow suit. The most devastating of these will be gifted Icelandic midfielder Gylfi Sigur∂sson, but the club will also miss young Welsh hotshot Joe Allen.
The good news is that from outgoing transfers and top flight television money, the club can afford to go out and effectively buy a whole new team if they wish, and new manager/Danish legend Michael Laudrup looks set to continue his predecessor's football philosophy. In particular the £2 million signing of Michu, who scored 15 goals in La Liga last season, appears to be something of a coup and some astoundingly good business.
Key Signing: Michu
Key Man: Nathan Dyer
Verdict: Second seasons can be tough, but if Laudrup finds his feet quickly then this club can eke out a safe position in the middle of the table.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Nickname: Spurs
Ground: White Hart Lane
Capacity: 36,236
Last season: 4th
Manager: André Villas-Boas
It's been a summer of upheaval for Tottenham; unlucky to miss out on Champions League football at the end of last season, and then the surprise sacking of Harry Redknapp who most definitely did not cheat on his taxes. Now they have recruited André Villas-Boas, fresh off his turbulent and ultimately failed tenure at Chelsea. It's a bold move which not only provides the club with the opportunity to get one over their major rival, but offers AVB an immediate shot at redemption and vindication.
With so much on the line, it's no wonder the club has added to its already impressive squad. Jan Vertonghen is the latest in a long line of Belgian starlets to join the English league recently, while Gylfi Sigur∂sson was one of the best players of last season for entertainers Swansea. Emmanuel Adebayor seems like a common sense addition following his successful loan spell with the club last season, and the fact that their only out and out striker besides him is the inconsistent Jermain Defoe. He also looks a steal at just £5 million (although one has to wonder about the wages).
Whatever happens, Spurs will be a club worth watching this season. An ambitious young manager looks certain to amend a new look Tottenham side, with several key players on their way out including Luka Modric. Designs are very much on a top four finish and Champions League football, but it will be difficult
Key Signing: Emmanuel Adebayor
Key Man: Gareth Bale
Verdict: The goal is a top four finish, but with the level of competition and the requisite adjustment period for a jarring new manager, this seems an unlikely target.
WEST BROMWICH ALBION
Latest club news
Nickname: Baggies
Ground: The Hawthorns
Capacity: 26,500
Last season: 10th
Manager: Steve Clarke
Roy Hodgson was poached by the England national team following an impressive season with West Brom. His departure will rock the club, but was swift in replacing him with Steve Clarke. As Clarke's first full management job, this move presents something of a risk.
Clarke served for many years as Chelsea assistant manager, where he was routinely hailed as a key component of the successful Mourinho years for the club, however he departed for Liverpool after being told in no uncertain terms that the club had no intention of promoting him to manager with so little experience under his belt. Now he has finally been given his chance, and his performance will be watched with great interest to see if he can prove all the doubters wrong.
What's more, he's got a good shot at doing just that. The club have signed shrewdly this summer, including the likes of Ben Foster, Romelu Lukaku on loan, and Claudio Yacob. In addition they still have the same core squad featuring Shane Long, Chris Brunt and Peter Odemwingie, but questions will be raised over squad depth.
Key Signing: Claudio Yacob
Key Man: Peter Odemwingie
Verdict: Should have enough to avoid a serious relegation threat, but much uncertainty over inexperienced manager's ability to cope.
WEST HAM UNITED
Latest club news
Nickname: The Hammers
Ground: The Boleyn Ground
Capacity: 35,016
Last season: Promoted from Championship
Manager: Sam Allardyce
Sam Allardyce's style may not have won him too many fans, even from among the West Ham faithful, but he got the job done. The club had to satisfy for a playoff end to the season rather than straight promotion, but they got their in the end, and found their way to the promised land of the Premier League. Now they must find a way to stay there.
Fortunately in Allardyce they have exactly the right man for the job. A familar face in the top flight, Allardyce is notorious for his hard fought, take no prisoners style. It's not pretty, but it's effective, and while it's completely at odds with what West Ham fans idealise about their club, it might just be their best hope.
As one might expect from an Allardyce team, West Ham's play comes mainly down the middle, where Kevin Nolan is still a threat despite his advancing years, and Ricardo Vaz Tê an effective frontman. This summer they have added more defensive cover in the form of James Collins, Alou Diarra and goalkeeper Jussi Jääskeläinen. They won't set the Premier League alight as Swansea did last season, but they will be tough to beat.
Key Signing: Jussi Jääskeläinen
Key Man: Kevin Nolan
Verdict: Could conceivably find themselves dragged into a relegation battle, but with Sam Allardyce at the helm they have the tools to avoid any serious threat; a good chance of survival.
WIGAN ATHLETIC
Nickname: Latics
Ground: JJB Stadium
Capacity: 25,000
Last season: 15th
Manager: Roberto Martínez
Every season I predict Wigan to get relegated, and every season they defy the odds to just about escape this fate in the dying stages of the season. So this year, while my first instinct may be that they face a struggle to survive, I suspect they may just squeak it once again.
Roberto Martínez has done a heck of a job keeping the club treading water despite all the close calls, and it's no wonder he was pursued so aggressively by Liverpool this summer. Latics fans will no doubt be thrilled that he resisted the Reds' allure.
Goals have always been the problem with this team. Franco Di Santo is getting better, but unfortunately still remains far from consistent, while new signing Arouna Koné brings some much needed reinforcement to this area. Still, there is no doubt that this team's strength lies in its solid defence, including goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi, Maynor Figueroa and Iván Ramis.
Key Signing: Arouna Koné
Key Man: Maynor Figueroa
Verdict: It will be a tough season again, but I am backing them to just scrape survival yet again.
Predicted table:
1. Manchester United
2. Manchester City
3. Arsenal
4. Chelsea
5. Tottenham
6. Newcastle
7. Liverpool
8. Everton
9. Sunderland
10. Fulham
11. Stoke City
12. Swansea
13. West Brom
14. West Ham
15. Aston Villa
16. Reading
17. Wigan
18. Queens Park Rangers
19. Southampton
20. Norwich
Tuesday, 31 July 2012
Genre Electropop, synthpop, indie pop, indie rock
Label Columbia
Producers Michael Angelakos, Chris Zane
The origin story of Passion Pit is a famously romantic one, the sort of 'humble beginnings' anecdote that's tailor-made for the hype machine.
Then college student Michael Angelakos whipped together a quick home-brewed five song EP for his lady friend. While the production was undeniably rough around the edges, the music itself was something beyond your average bedroom songwriter; imaginative and infectious enough to catch on and spread first through the college and then the blogosphere. Soon the whole internet was abuzz.
It was not long before a record deal followed, and the resulting debut album Manners was something of a triumph, a giddy blaze of euphoric pop that's in equal parts anthemic people-pleaser and sincerest introspection.
With the follow up Gossamer, Angelakos is once again writing and co-producing the album in its entirety. The aim this time around seems to be evolution, a maturation of the distinct sound that served the band so well the first time.
Nowhere is this better illustrated than with the first single released from the album Take a Walk. The decidedly more pensive opening chords really set the tone for the album by drawing a stark contrast with the explosion of synth that heralded the opening of their first album. What follows is the story of a struggling family in recession-era America, a tableau of personal tales that touch on hot button issues from immigration to the welfare state. It marks a new, more poignant direction for a band who's past lyrics include such chin scratchers as "cuddle fuddle" and "let your love grow tall".
It's always a risky move for a musician to delve into political commentary, but this is merely one example of a more serious approach to songwriting on show here. Subject matter runs the gamut from relationships to depression and alcoholism, with confrontation against one's own demons a common thread. The clear aim is for this to be a more 'human' album, one that feels more directly personal to the listener, as opposed to what some may describe as the purely cathartic musical rush of their debut.
That's not to say that this album has abandoned the sugary highs. Dangerously catchy and sunny numbers like Carried Away still remain, even if they may not overwhelm listeners with the same stomping level of energy as in earlier work. Gossamer perhaps lacks some of the trademark reckless abandon that typified the debut album, but makes up for it with a greater depth and variety to the work.
A great example of this is Constant Conversations, one of the more sublime tracks on the album and a drastic new musical direction for the band. The band trades hyper-energetic pop stylings for a more r&b flavour, a soulful pondering of personal failings that effortlessly mingles dark, regretful lyrics with detached, unnervingly carefree melody.
Certainly Gossamer will lack some of the raw catharsis that made the band so noteworthy in the first place. That being said, these new songs carry an impact all their own, with greater contrast between the emotional highs and lows. At their pinnacle, these songs are the better for this fact.
To illustrate this point I look to Hideaway. A song of extremes, Hideaway starts with distorted notes of sadness and peaks with a chorus of pure ebullience. This is Gossamer at its finest, capturing the full range of Angelakos' fervor in one song, from depression to mania. Indeed it is hard not to consider this music in the context of the songwriter's recently divulged bi-polar issues, but that's a whole case study unto itself.
Of course, what matters above all is the quality of the music and this is where Gossamer unequivocally succeeds. Hideaway and Constant Conversations (mentioned above) are highlights along with the superb It's Not My Fault I'm Happy, itself almost a marriage of the styles of Passion Pit and the steadier tenor of an artist like Coldplay, and the closest Gossamer has to a song like previous hit Moth's Wings.
But the reality is that most of the songs are good, and all of them are worth listening to. It's an album that works on the individual merit of each song, and together as a whole, and certainly one of the better albums of 2012 so far. It may not pack the 'wow' factor of the debut, but it does very well to progress the band's style and in many ways has improved the level of quality.
Must Listen
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
Welcome to another end of year retrospective on what has been an extraordinary and unpredictable season of the Premier League. Here at The Ephemeric we like to choose this moment to take stock of the season gone by and consider what the future looks like for each of its 20 contenders.
A nail-biting finish sees Manchester City crowned champions for the first time in 40 years, winning the big prize on the last day of the season and becoming the first team ever to win it on goal difference. There was plenty excitement elsewhere as Spurs and Newcastle made an impressive push for Champions League qualification, while each of the three newly promoted clubs incredibly managed to up. At the other end of the table Bolton, Blackburn and Wolves sadly tasted the bitter finish of relegation.
We'll begin with our season summary and team of the season, and then follow with a team-by-team review.
2012 Premier League Summary:
Winners: Manchester City
Relegated: Bolton, Blackburn, Wolverhampton Wanderers
Player of the Year: Yaya Touré
Young Player of the Year: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Manager of the Year: Alan Pardew
Top Scorer: Robin Van Persie (30)
Most Assists: David Silva (15)
Overachievers: Newcastle United
Underachievers: Liverpool
Best signing of the season: Juan Mata
Worst signing of the season: Stewart Downing
2012 Premier Team of the Season:
Goalkeeper: Joe Hart - Arguably one of the best young goalkeepers in the world today and without doubt the greatest English goalkeeper since David Seaman; Hart's maturity and composure shines through every game and this year it has guided his team to a historic Premier League title. Such assuredness for his age, it's easy to forget that he's been bringing the goods at top flight level since he was 21, and now it has been justly rewarded with silverware.
Right Back: Kyle Walker - The PFA's young player of the year (but not mine), Walker has had something of a coming of age since Tottenham snapped him up in 2009, one that has seen him usurp internationally acclaimed teammates and receives accolades in the press tipping him as the next Roberto Carlos (wrong flank, but whatever). All hype aside, Walker is a fantastic talent with pace, intelligence and a heck of a strike for a fullback.
Centrebacks: Vincent Kompany & Laurent Koscielny- The Man City captain Kompany has just finished the season of his life; imperious at the back, and bringing home the Premier League title, it doesn't get much better. Kompany is finally starting to vindicate the hype that he has borne since a young age and at 26 still arguably has his best years ahead of him. It is to the Premier League's credit that he will spend those years here. Koscielny meanwhile has had a defining year. Formerly the butt of jokes regarding the leaky Arsenal defences of years gone by, no one is laughing now. Koscielny has really come of form this season with all the deft touches and class one would expect of a top European centreback, but with the physical instinct that is necessary for the English league.
Left Back: Ashley Cole- No surprise here for the man voted England’s player of the year by the fans and with good cause. Cole has been one of the most consistent footballers of the past decade, and in a season characterised by an inconsistent and stuttering Chelsea side, continued his fine attacking and defensive form. This was particularly crucial in the latter stage of the season where he rightly drew plaudits for his performances in the Champions League, culminating in what many have described as his finest ever game again Bayern Munich in the final.
Right Mid: David Silva – The little magician showed this season why City had spent all that money, leading the assists table and in some considerable style as Man City fought their way to the title. If beautiful football is expected of the champions then it is through this man that it will come. This season Silva has propelled himself into the ranks of the very finest playmakers in Europe, but with this high standing comes increased expectation next season.
Centre Mids: Yaya Touré & Michael Carrick- If last season was Yaya Touré's better than expected welcome to the Premier League, this was the season where he blew it apart completely. With pace, strength, technique and a killer strike, Yaya is just about the complete player, but this season he added to that with the goal-scoring instinct of Lampard and the sheer doggedness of Gerrard to make pretty much the perfect midfielder. Michael Carrick meanwhile took this season to prove all the doubters wrong. Hardly the showiest of players, Carrick revels in the dirty work, and this season he has excelled in ticking over Man United's midfield as they pushed (and failed) for glory. The statistics speak for themselves, more successful challenges than any other midfielder, and the second highest pass accuracy. Every midfield needs a man like this and right now there are few better.
Left Mid: Clint Dempsey – The talented American has seen through a number of seasons in London now, but this has been easily his most notable. With 17 league goals to his name and a whole bunch of assists, Dempsey has become one of the more feared opponents in the league and massively influential for this Fulham side. Expect to see many transfer rumours this summer as the big clubs pursue one of the big up-and-comers of English club football.
Forwards: Wayne Rooney & Robin Van Persie – Inspirational as always and now consistently on the scoresheet, this season might have been one of Wayne Rooney's finest all around team displays despite ending trophiless. Now he needs to go and do the same for England over the summer. Meanwhile Van Persie has had the absolute season of his life, avoiding the injury problems that have plagued him in the past and carrying his Arsenal team to a top 4 finish, winning the Golden Boot in the process. Now he heads to Euro 2012 with a very real chance of winning it, and will no doubt be attracting plenty of attention from bigger clubs shortly, with Man City rumoured to be waiting in the wings.
Team by team Review
ARSENAL
Predicted Position: 4th
Final Position: 3rd
Arsenal have enjoyed their most consistent season in many years, buoyed by the unstoppable goalscoring form of Robin Van Perise and the return to fitness of Thomas Vermaelen. Nevertheless they have failed to end their trophiless run, which now extends to almost a decade without success.
Arsene Wenger has proved himself once again to be among the very top managers in the world by not only holding together the team after the loss of two of their most influential players, but by recovering from their disastrous start to the season to achieve one of their better league finishes in recent history. What's more, the club look set to strengthen well over the summer with the signing of Lukas Podolski (who will hopefully avoid the same fate as Arshavin, Gervinho, Chamakh et al) and potentially Yann M'Vila, while talented young players like Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain appear to be on the precipice of greatness. Their American/Russian billionaire owners seem prepared to bankroll some real spending in the summer, so this could be a big year for Arsenal.
The most pressing concern will be the club's continued lack of success and silverware as they endeavour to hold on to their top assets. Arsenal simply can't afford to let Van Persie go, but as he approaches the later stages of his career how much longer will he be content to stay at the Emirates without a few medals to show for it? If Real Madrid or Manchester City come calling after Euro 2012 the striker faces a major dilemma, especially with his contract almost up. The other element is the financial one; in order to grow and compete with the top clubs in the world, Arsenal will desperately need more commercial revenue, currently just barely making the top 20 in Europe in this regard. Improving this will be a tall order without some success with which to attract big name players and sponsors.
Best Player: Robin Van Persie
Worst Player: Andrei Arshavin
Summer transfer targets: More attacking depth and a combative central midfielder
ASTON VILLA
Predicted Position: 10th
Final Position: 16th
If the departure of successful manager Martin O'Neill didn't do enough to create acrimony between club owner and fans, then the appointment of Alex McLeish fresh off the back of relegation with arch rivals Birmingham certainly did. This discontent has been exacerbated by a lack of squad depth and the seismic impact of captain Stiliyan Petrov's medical ailment. In addition promising signings like Charles N'Zogbia haven't panned out as well as hoped, a major disappointment for the club.
Not surprisingly it's been a poor season that has seen Villa sucked into a relegation battle from which they narrowly escaped, and McLeish has been shown the door after one season at the club. On paper it's a team that shouldn't be in such a poor state, but such is the lack of confidence that they haven't played anywhere near their level. The defence in particular has looked simply incapable of dealing with set-pieces.
Major rebuilding will be needed, and the likes of Darren Bent will need to be held onto for dear life.
Best Player: Darren Bent
Worst Player: Charles N'Zogbia
Summer transfer targets: Everywhere, more attacking options in particular.
BLACKBURN ROVERS
Predicted Position: 16th
Final Position: 19th (relegated)
It was expected to be a tough season for the club and so it proved, with Rovers relegated and manager Steve Kean surely on the way out of Ewood Park. I attended their last game of the season against Chelsea, and even though they only lost narrowly it was a result that flattered them greatly, especially as they were up against a Chelsea side consisting mainly of reserve and youth players. Throughout the afternoon the only thing I heard their fans chant was "Kean out".
So what went wrong? Well clearly the sale of star defenders Chris Samba and Phil Jones took its toll on the once formidable Blackburn backline and, Yakubu aside, the team found itself sorely lacking in quality performers. In the end the team proved too inconsistent, with great victories against big teams often followed immediately by pedestrian defeats. Unfortunately a likely exodus awaits this summer which could see their already threadbare squad depleted further.
It keeps going from bad to worse for the club, and before a true fight for promotion back to the top flight can begin there will be serious work required to steady the ship and rebuild.
Best Player: Aiyegbeni Yakubu
Worst Player: Gaël Givet
Summer transfer targets: Damage control
BOLTON WANDERERS
Predicted Position: 13th
Final Position: 18th (relegated)
A major blow following on from a strong season in which manager Owen Coyle looked to be taking the club forward. The departure of key players and worries regarding the health of Fabrice Muamba culminated in a year of disappointment with Bolton looking bereft of their characteristic grit. Now it's back to square one as the fight for a speedy return to the Premier League begins.
Injury problems didn't help, but they only serve as a smokescreen for the greater problems at the club. The motivation wasn't there, the tactical efficiency that characterised the Bolton of old wasn't there. Is Owen Coyle still the man for the club? Well I'm starting to have my doubts. If he gets another shot then there is much rebuilding to be done.
Captain Kevin Davies remains one of the few shining lights for the club, and the man's declaration of loyalty even in the face of relegation is deeply admirable. Assuming he stays put Blackburn will still no doubt face departures in the summer, but for the most part these players are expendable. Only the future of goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen gives major cause for concern.
Best Player: Kevin Davies
Worst Player: David N'Gog
Summer transfer targets: New striker and possibly replacement goalkeeper
CHELSEA
Predicted Position: 3rd
Final Position: 6th
It serves as a perfect embodiment of this Chelsea team that their season ended up simultaneously as one of the worst and best of the club's history. On the one hand they made history by becoming the first London club ever to be crowned Champions of Europe, having already claimed a milestone 7th FA Cup, whereas in the league they slumped to their worst finish of the new millennium. It's safe to say that the André Villas-Boas experiment was a failure, and a great deal of the club's success since his dismissal can be attributed to the different approach to player management of Roberto Di Matteo.
Club insiders attribute AVB's fall to his relentless focus on the future of Chelsea, losing sight of the present. Whatever the case, there remains a lot up in the air for the club's foreseeable future. The position of permanent manager has yet to be settled, and the same goes for many of the more senior members of the playing staff. On the bright side the club's younger investments have started to pay dividends, with Mata, Ramires, Sturridge and David Luiz all playing key roles in the first team, and the likes of Bertrand and Lukaku making cameo appearances, the former starting in the Champions League final. A second youth cup winning team in three years was the cherry on top for the promising youth of Chelsea.
More of that will be needed, but the club must press on with negotiations for more established players as well to fill certain weak points if they wish to challenge again in the next few seasons. With Drogba moving on and Torres struggling for consistency, a new striker may be necessary. More pressing is the need for offensive quality in the midfield, particularly on the wing and centrally as a long term replacement for Lampard. Lastly defensive dilemmas in the final weeks of the season have emphasised the need for increased depth, particularly at the right back position. If this squad still needs to rely on the likes of Malouda, Meireles and Bosingwa next season then it is hard to see any potential for improvement.
Best Player: Petr Cech
Worst Player: Raul Meireles
Summer transfer targets: Striker, attacking midfielder(s), right back
EVERTON
Predicted Position: 7th
Final Position: 7th
A familiar story for Everton; a shaky start to the season saved by a more impressive return to form in the second half as David Moyes continues to do a fine job of keeping Everton on the fringes of the big time. With no investment from the clubs’ owners there appears to be little prospect of that changing, but at the very least Moyes seems to have solved one of the club's more pressing long term concerns.
Ever since the departure of Rooney the club has been on the lookout for one decisive and consistent striker, and with 9 goals in 13 games since his January transfer Nikica Jelavic could be the answer. Yet they find themselves in a position they know all too well. Sure, David Moyes is running the team well, but where do they go from here in a league that is becoming more competitive than ever?
There is great potential for investors at the club, Everton is no small brand in the football world, but the club appear reluctant to go down that route. In the meantime if they are to invest anywhere it looks likely to be in the form of some new blood in the midfield, with strong links to the permanent signing of Steven Pienaar and Fulham's Clint Dempsey. On the other hand rumours persist that Leighton Baines could be on his way out after another strong season.
Best Player: Nikica Jelavic
Worst Player: Diniyar Bilyaletdinov
Summer transfer targets: Attacking midfield
FULHAM
Predicted Position: 11th
Final Position: 9th
Martin Jol appears to have finally hit his stride as Fulham manager after a baptism of fire, aggravated by the poor attitude of Bobby Zamora, the lack of confidence of new boy Bryan Ruiz and his own tactical stubbornness. A solid top 10 finish sets the club up in a good position for next season.
The summer ahead will be crucial for the club. Jol has made some astute moves lately with the signings of Pogrebnyak and Diarra but more important than adding further to the squad will be warding off the interest being expressed in key players like Clint Dempsey and Moussa Dembélé. If they can do that, and make the Pogrebnyak signing permanent, then investing in a little more defensive strength should be just what the team needs to mount a good campaign next season.
Best Player: Clint Dempsey
Worst Player: Bobby Zamora
Summer transfer targets: Defensive strength, possible replacements in attacking midfield
LIVERPOOL
Predicted Position: 5th
Final Position: 8th
A Carling Cup victory and FA Cup runners up medal were not enough to save the job of club legend Kenny Dalglish after a very disappointing league campaign which culminated in an 8th place finish. The club needs to renew again, with rumours linking the club with a move for Wigan boss Roberto Martínez, Fabio Capello and André Villas-Boas. This failure is even more disturbing in the context of the amount new owners Fenway Sports Group have spent since taking over the club last year, close to £120 million.
The new man will have his work cut out for him. He'll need to try and get the best out of mercurial talents like Andy Carroll, while keeping the more temperamental players like Luis Suárez under control. A lot of deadwood will have to be cleared out, and in many cases that may require the club to cut its losses on expensive recent acquisitions that haven't really panned out.
As for this summer's transfer targets, first priority is preventing any of the top talent from leaving. A club of Liverpool's stature has never had this problem before, but on the back of yet another mid table finish one would assume eventually their credit will have to run dry. The consensus is that a new striker and some creative midfield reinforcements are on the cards, but to ignore the defensive frailties they've shown this season would be foolhardy.
Best Player: Luis Suárez
Worst Player: Stewart Downing
Summer transfer targets: Attacking talent
MANCHESTER CITY
Predicted Position: 2nd
Final Position: 1st (Champions)
Historic victory for the Citizens who claimed their first league title in 44 years and deservedly so. A squad full of supreme talent and led with determination enough to come back from the brink when all else counted them out; their late season surge from 8 points behind in the final weeks will undoubtedly go down as one of the great comebacks in Premier League history. Yaya Touré simply dominates the midfield with his presence while David Silva carves the opposition open. Vincent Kompany has become the rock upon which the rest of the team is built and with safe hands like Joe Hart behind him it's no wonder City had the best defensive record in the league this season. These players in particular stole the show, but take nothing away from the likes of Sergio Agüero, Edin Dzeko, and the rest of the squad, it's a remarkable achievement that will keep their fans jubilant for a long time to come.
Low points include their weak showings in Europe and cup competitions, as well as off the pitch problems with the more unique personalities of Carlos Tevez and Mario Balotelli. The future of these players remains in doubt; Tevez's shameful actions are inexcusable from a professional footballer and should be shown the door in the summer, while Balotelli might actually be certifiably insane, but damned good entertainment value. New defensive signing Savic was also a bit of a disappointment this season and almost cost the club the title on the last day of the season, but as a youngster there is still time for him to recover.
When it comes to future signings the sky is the limit for any club with this owner's resources. Expect to see movement on some new defenders, particularly a centre back and potentially a better left back. Let's face it, they'll bring in a new winger or two as well, add to the already extensive collection.
Best Player: Yaya Touré
Worst Player: Carlos Tevez
Summer transfer targets: Winger, depth in defense.
MANCHESTER UNITED
Predicted Position: 1st (Champions)
Final Position: 2nd
It would be harsh to say that Manchester United have had a poor season, despite ending it without any silverware, but they will still be crestfallen at having thrown away the title so late in the season having held such a comfortable advantage. It's not what we've come to expect from Sir Alex's team but a challenge that they more than anyone will be up for meeting next season.
Going forward, Sir Alex is still the best manager in the world, and with Wayne Rooney they have one of the best frontmen in the world. They undoubtedly suffered from injuries this season to the likes of Nemanja Vidic and Darren Fletcher, and there lies more than just a whiff of desperation about their continued reliance on Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, but make no mistake they will be right back in it again next year.
With a full strength squad and the continued progression of young players like Javier Hernández there's no pressing need for new players, but with certain players likely to move on there could be room for a new full back and attacking midfielder as the Red Devils look to reclaim their crown.
Best Player: Wayne Rooney
Worst Player: Rafael
Summer transfer targets: Fullback, attacking midfielder
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Predicted Position: 12th
Final Position: 5th
The great success story of the Premier League this season, Newcastle showed considerable boxy in challenging for a Champions League place right up until the end of the season, and in only their second season back up in the top flight.
Alan Pardew took the reigns at the club amid some skepticism after Chris Hughton's successful tenure was mystifyingly cut short, but that move has been fully justified now. Pardew's work with the club has been remarkable and seen some absolutely inspired signings such as Papiss Cissé, Demba Ba and Cheick Tioté. However he's done it, Newcastle can once again claim to be one of the big clubs in England.
Of course this is only one season. Next season could tell a completely different story, and Newcastle can't rest on the laurels of their strong performance this year. For starters many of their starlets are likely to have attracted interest from bigger teams after their heroics this season. Top of the agenda for this summer has got to be keeping these players together. This club could be on the cusp of great things, and Pardew needs to convince the players of that fact and ask them to provide at least one more season of service in the black and white. If he can manage this, then on the shopping list will be a new fullback, especially if Danny Simpson leaves, and some more midfield depth.
Best Player: Fabricio Coloccini
Worst Player: Danny Simpson
Summer transfer targets: Fullback, midfield depth
NORWICH
Predicted Position: 15th
Final Position: 12th
Another impressive season from manager Paul Lambert and his men on their return to the topflight. There is a surprising sense of belief about this club and in particular talismanic striker Grant Holt who has been a revelation this year.
Lambert raised eyebrows this past summer by signing mainly hungry lower league players as opposed to those with some Premier League experience, but once again the promising manager has vindicated his decisions. Strong form in particular around the start of 2012 saw the club carve out a comfortable spot in midtable.
Still there is always a danger of second season syndrome, an affliction we see all too often in English football. Of course, this is not a club blessed with limitless resources or the pull of a top club, and the task ahead of them this summer to ensure longevity is a tough one. They will need to be astute above all else in the transfer market, and be prepared to dig in deep next season.
Best Player: Grant Holt
Worst Player: Andrew Crofts
Summer transfer targets: Striker, winger, central defender
QUEENS PARK RANGERS
Predicted Position: 20th (relegated)
Final Position: 17th
A tough season for QPR on their return to the Premier League, but they just about did enough to survive and almost enjoyed a surprise role as title spoilers on the last day of the season. Their impressive home form has played a big part, seeing QPR pick up a few major scalps including Chelsea and Arsenal.
Of course, another major part of their survival has been the injection of capital from new owner Tony Fernandes. One thing this club does have is resources, and they have used this advantage to bring in some real talent this season like Djibril Cissé, Bobby Zamora and Taye Taiwo, to say nothing of existing talent like Adel Taarabt and Jamie Mackie. The addition of Mark Hughes as manager has also provided a good boost during the tail end of the season.
However another outlay will be needed to ensure survival next time around. For the summer, targets include a new striker and a battling central midfielder.
Best Player: Jamie Mackie
Worst Player: Shaun Wright Phillips
Summer transfer targets: Striker(s), midfield general
STOKE
Predicted Position: 9th
Final Position: 14th
A somewhat anonymous season for Stoke who failed to challenge the established top 10 of the Premier League but were equally untroubled by the pull of relegation. It could be the case now that Tony Pulis has simply done all he can for the club, that they are at their peak under him. Indeed the critics have begun to come out against his approach lately, some from within his own team. Make no mistake though, the club and fans should be indebted to him for all he has accomplished.
A mediocre league campaign was made up for with an impressive attempt at the knockout stages of the Europa League. In particular Peter Crouch has begun to look at home in a Stoke shirt, and suits their play style perfectly, while elsewhere the strong defensive partnership of Robert Huth and Ryan Shawcross continues to shine. On the downside the Wilson Palacios signing hasn't had the expected impact, while the likes of Kenwyne Jones and Ricardo Fuller appear set for the exit having found it harder to get a game this year.
On the transfer front while the likes of Etherington, Whelan and Whitehead have served Stoke well thus far, the obvious area for improvement is in this midfield area. A new left back could also be needed if Marc Wilson moves back to his preferred central midfield position.
Best Player: Peter Crouch
Worst Player: Wilson Palacios
Summer transfer targets: Midfield, fullback
SUNDERLAND
Predicted Position: 8th
Final Position: 13th
A very disappointing start to the season saw Steve Bruce replaced by Martin O'Neill, who has since gone on to do what he does best by breathing new life into a club. A strong second half of the season followed with a much more consistent steel to the performances and some much more promising performances from the playing staff.
Stephane Sessegnon has been an absolute revelation with his pace and incisiveness, and if Sunderland can somehow manage to hold on to him through the summer he will be a key part of their team. Elsewhere bright young players like James McLean and Jack Colback have been brought through by the new manager with success.
Sunderland are in good hands going forward, with Martin O'Neill one of the great team builders in British football. Top of his shopping list will be a new central midfielder and a proper replacement for the gap in attack left by Darren Bent and Asamoah Gyan.
Best Player: Stephane Sessengnon
Worst Player: Titus Bramble
Summer transfer targets: Central defender, striker
SWANSEA
Predicted Position: 18th (relegated)
Final Position: 11th
One of the great overachievers of this Premier League season, Swansea have been wonderful entertainment. Ex-Chelsea coach Brendan Rodgers has done some incredible work not only to keep the Welsh club in the Premier League when no one gave them a chance, but to do so in style. They have played excellent football, and shown that newly promoted teams can stick to their attacking principles without being overwhelmed by the big clubs. Indeed they have even claimed some major scalps this season such as Arsenal and Man City.
Pacy, dangerous players like Scott Sinclair and Nathan Dyer have given the team an edge this year, bolstered by gifted midfielders in Leon Britton and above all Gylfi Sigurðsson. The latter is only on loan, but after a phenomenal season he will no doubt be a target for a permanent move, and may attract the attentions of some bigger clubs as well.
A repeat performance next season is the goal, although it will be difficult. The club will be looking to add some top flight experience to the squad, and some defensive graft to bring some balance to the team.
Best Player: Gylfi Sigurðsson
Worst Player: Luke Moore
Summer transfer targets: Defenders, Gylfi Sigurðsson
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Predicted Position: 6th
Final Position: 4th
An incredibly positive start to the season which saw the club keep pace with the early league leaders almost imploded in spectacular fashion as they fell down the table after Christmas. Fortunately they were able to pull themselves together and make a final push to achieve a 4th place finish. An impressive feat, unfortunately they will miss out on a Champions League place next season anyway due to Chelsea's success.
Their midseason lull owes much to speculation linking Manager Harry Redknapp away to the England job. This move did not come to pass, and the final weeks of the season saw a resurgence once this unnecessary distraction was put out of the way. Unfortunately the club now faces much graver threat, with key players eyeing up the exits due to the lack of Champions League football to look forward to next season. Players like Luka Modric and Gareth Bale have threatened to move on in the past, and now they may feel their patience has run out.
Holding on to these players will be crucial, but even then they will be looking to improve the squad. A new striker will be coming in with Defoe not fancied, Saha not pulling his weight and Adebayor back off to City (for now). In addition a new long term goalkeeper is a must, with Brad Friedel now 41.
Best Player: Scott Parker
Worst Player: Louis Saha
Summer transfer targets: Striker, goalkeeper
WEST BROMWICH ALBION
Predicted Position: 14th
Final Position: 10th
Roy Hodgson has done it again, not only keeping WBA safe but taking them to a very respectable mid table finish. It's a fitting season for the man before he heads off to take the reigns of the England national team. It will be a tall order for the club to continue in this fashion without him, but attention now must be turned to the search for his successor.
WBA seems to have some genuine quality in Peter Odemwingie and the safe hands of Ben Foster, but credit needs to go to the entire squad for the effort they've put in. They have achieved a consistency that's most uncharacteristic for this club and if they bring in the right man there is a solid basis to build on here.
It's hard to predict in what direction the new manager will take the club, but it seems pretty clear that solidification at the back is a priority, as well as any replacement for Odemwingie if he gets snapped up by another club this summer.
Best Player: Peter Odemwingie
Worst Player: Martin Fulop
Summer transfer targets: Defensive strength
WIGAN ATHLETIC
Predicted Position: 19th (relegated)
Final Position: 15th
Year after year Wigan see the same old story, a brush with relegation followed by a heroic last minute escape. This season Roberto Martínez's boys looked destined for the drop until a stunning run of late season form that saw them beat Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle.
This was the season where Victor Moses finally came of age with some magnetic displays in the tail-end of the season, and the youngster will likely attract a fair bit of attention in the transfer market this summer. Meanwhile Maynor Figueroa has been impressive at times alongside the rock at the back Gary Caldwell. For Martinez himself the future is not so clear, with rumours linking him with a move to Anfield.
This summer's priorities lie in preventing an exodus of talent like Rodallega and Moses. Aside from this rumours have the club linked with Stoke's Ricardo Fuller and an array of lesser known talents in the attacking midfield area.
Best Player: Gary Caldwell
Worst Player: Jean Beausejour
Summer transfer targets: Attacking midfield, striker
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Predicted Position: 17th
Final Position: 20th (relegated)
This was always going to be a difficult season for Wolves, and indeed it ended up being a disaster as the club returns to the Championship. Sacking Mick McCarthy was an inexplicably poor decision from the club owners and with the new management lacking the support and confidence of his players, the club has promptly been relegated.
What makes it even more disappointing for Wolves fans is how solidly the club started, with 7 points on the board early on. Sadly this would not continue and a haul of 18 points from the next 35 games would see them finish last.
An exodus of Key players like Kevin Doyle and Matt Jarvis is likely this summer. But this also presents an opportunity to rebuild, shed expenditure from the wage bill and put that parachute money to good use. This is what the club will need to do next season if they want to bounce back quickly.
Best Player: Matt Jarvis
Worst Player: Christophe Berra
Summer transfer targets: New beginnings
So there we are for another year, we hope you enjoyed that. Stay tuned for our big preview of Euro 2012 coming up later this month. Until then.
Tuesday, 8 May 2012
Theatre remains one of London's great treats, and the 2012 season is off to a great start. How does the Donmar hold up in the post-Grandage era? Will Simon McBurney see a return to form? We answer all these questions and more as we look at the early notables of London theatre in 2012:
"The Master & Margarita" Theatre Review
Directed by Simon McBurney
Written by Mikhail Bulgakov
Starring Paul Rhys, Henry Pettigrew, Angus Wright
Theatre Barbican, Complicite
The Devil and his retinue visit Moscow in the 1930s to attend a gala with a demonic talking cat while Jesus and Pontius Pilate debate the nature of good and evil; in reality an allegory for Stalinism. This is the fevered imaginings of Mikhail Bulgakov whose seminal masterpiece the Master & Margarita has been hailed as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century, and at the same time a notoriously unadaptable piece of work.
Yet the biggest surprise is not simply that the production manages to hold together, but the panache with which this has been pulled off. It is perhaps to be expected that any adaption of such eclectic source material would involve an unorthodox approach and it is precisely this sort of area where Complicite are known for excellence. The audience is treated to technical marvels including clever use of music, video and 3D animation, and some extraordinarily choreographed climactic scenes.
Fortunately there's more substance here on offer than just a sensory feast, and the acting is equally remarkable. Paul Rhys is simply beguiling as the Bulgakov-like Master and the demonic Woland, a performance so deliciously offbeat that it is impossible to take your eyes off of him. Angus Wright almost steals the stage as the frenetic Koroviev along with Ajay Naidu as Woland's retinue, in equal parts menacing and camp.
Ultimately The Master & Margarita achieves an almost impossibly addictive concoction of zaniness, existential terror and pure excitement. An absolutely unmissable show, easily the best of the year so far and probably comparable to the best of recent years.
"All New People" Theatre Review
Directed by Peter DuBois
Written by Zach Braff
Starring Zach Braff, Eve Myles, Paul Hilton, Susannah Fielding
Theatre Duke of York's Theatre
After a moderately successful run in America, All New People has come to the West End. Fans of Braff will recognise his handiwork immediately upon entering the theatre; the very signature Braff style of soundtrack that typified the production of Scrubs and his various movies plays over loud speakers, featuring many of the same songs. The script even features its share of slapstick comedy and ironic humour with which he has become associated.
However this is a much darker brand of comedy than we are used to, with Braff beginning the opening scene standing on a chair, his neck in a noose. That this scene manages to be hilarious is a testament to both his writing chops as well as his impeccable comedic timing. In addition the script goes into far darker areas including hitmen, prostitution and considerably more profanity than he has ever been able to get away with on TV.
This is a plot that reaches quite close to my heart: a neurotic Jewish guy and a beach house setting in my own childhood haunt of Beach Haven, Long Beach Island. Yet at the same time this is a particularly surreal experience, with amusingly over the top situations and the usual cast of larger than life characters. The mostly tight writing keeps the jokes smart and the gradual reveal of plot points engrossing, while also making time for his trademark moments of tender contrast. What ultimately lets the production down is the clumsy pacing towards the end.
Braff excels at earnest and naturalistic writing, but by forcing his script into a 90 minute running time he is forced to wrap things up in far too abrupt a fashion. Plot threads take awkward twists out of nowhere, and characters turn violently bi-polar in the blink of an eye. It's an unfortunate and uncharacteristic narrative flailing after what is otherwise a reasonably neat and well executed production.
Nevertheless, this stakes a claim as one of the more noteworthy of early 2012 stage productions, and one would be foolish to pass on it while it's in town.
"Making Noise Quietly" Theatre Review
Directed by Peter Gill
Written by Robert Holman
Starring Ben Batt, Susan Brown, Jordan Dawes, John Hollingworth, Sara Kestelman, Matthew Tennyson
Theatre Donmar Warehouse
The production takes the form of three short plays each presenting an intimate peek at how personal lives are affected by the spectre of war. The first concerns a troubled conscientious objector's encounter with a precocious homosexual man against the backdrop of countryside bomb raids, the next gives us a sorrowful perspective of a young soldier delivering bad news to a grieving mother, and the last concerns an ill equipped single dad suddenly saddled with a troublesome mute child as a result of war.
It's an interesting concept with the potential for a lot of personal insight. The problem is that this last paragraph contains the entirety of the content of the play. Any psychological or philosophical analysis rarely goes further than skin deep, and the rest of the production's running time is filled with pretentiously vague dialogue the sole purpose of which appears to be to mask the absence of substance and the condescendingly telegraphed "subtext" between characters. This is a script that isn't even half as clever or deep as it thinks it is, and doesn't trust the audience to connect the extremely obvious dots, instead spelling things out as painfully and melodramatically as possible.
To its credit, the acting in this play is perfectly serviceable. Particular mention must go to Matthew Tennyson's performance in the first segment. But this is a rare positive moment for what is otherwise a dull and tedious three hours. An unfortunate and disappointing blip on the record of the Donmar.
The unfortunate truth is that this is a play with little to say, and it takes a long time saying it.
