French Open Day 3 - Murray And Watson Back On Track

For Andy Murray and Heather Watson 2013 was a year full of ups and downs.

Murray’s back surgery in late September meant he missed the final months of tour last year, and despite his triumph at Wimbledon the British number one dropped out of the world’s top five for the first time since 2008.

Watson on the other hand started last year as one of the top 50 players in the Women’s game, but suffered a major setback after contracting glandular fever.  This left her unprepared at the big events last summer causing a subsequent slip back down the rankings.

However after a tough few months the British pair both appear well on course to steer their respective careers back on track as yesterday they progressed to the second round of this year’s French Open.

After missing Roland Garros last year Murray’s opening match against world number 53 Andrey Golubev had the potential to be tough encounter and the Brit didn’t have it all his own way before finally prevailing 6-1 6-4 3-6 6-3

For two sets at least Murray was in fine form, his superb returning and solid defence was simply too much for Golubev who was attempting winners from all areas of the court but failing to consistently hit his targets.

The one negative for Murray was that his serve was dwindling well below its usual level. At one stage in the third set the Brit’s first serve percentage was only fractionally above 30% and Golubev capitalised to convert three of his five break points.

Murray will be the first to know those stats will have to improve if he is to progress over the next fortnight, however his assured recovery in the fourth set was a sign that he is rediscovering his best form and as expected will challenge deep into the second week.

For Watson who is currently ranked 92^nd in the world her straight sets win over Czech Barbora Zahlavova Strycova was a major step forward in a bid to reinstate herself as a top 50 player.

In comparison Zahlavova Strycova has a ranking of 63 but came out second best to Watson who after qualifying for the main draw last week thoroughly deserved her 6-3 6-4 victory in this first round encounter earning a second round clash against Romanian 4^th seed Simona Halep.

The shock of the day came in the first match on the Philippe Chatrier where this year’s Australian Open winner and 2^nd seed Li Na was sent packing after losing 7-5 3-6 6-1 to France’s Kristina Mladenovic.

That result meant that for the first time in history the Australia Open Champion’s from in both the men’s and women’s draw had both lost in the first round in Paris following Stanislas Wawrinka dismissal the previous day.

In the men’s draw there was a surprise defeat for Grigor Dimitrov at the hands of big serving giant Ivo Karlovic, elsewhere David Ferrer and home favourites Gael Monfils and Richard Gasquet all progressed.

French Open Day 2 - Iron Man Robredo Too Good For Ward

James Ward has the potential to be a top 60-80 player according to his Davis Cup team mate and Wimbledon Champion Andy Murray.

Ward may have lost his first round match against veteran Tommy Robredo in yesterday’s French Open first round; however the current British number 3 showed plenty of signs that at 27 he could still for fill Murray’s prediction.

 Next up for Ward are the grass courts at Queens and Wimbledon

For a set and a half Ward, ranked 167 in the world, was in control of proceedings against the 17^th seed Robredo, a man who in last year’s competition became the first man in Grand Slam history to come back from two sets down on three successive occasions.

That remarkable achievement earned the Spaniard the nickname “iron man” and he had to show plenty of toughness to overcome an inspired Ward eventually winning a rain interrupted match 4-6 6-4 6-2 6-4.

Despite going down an early break of serve in the third game Ward didn’t panic and managed flip the match in his favour as he claimed the majority of points from the back of the court.

However Robredo who is competing at his twelfth French Open, where he has made five quarter finals had been in many similar situations. Once the Spaniard had wrestled his way to a tight second set his higher pedigree was clear to see.

Ward who had won three close matches just to qualify in Paris didn’t go away and demonstrated the same determination and fighting spirit which has helped him overcome top 50 players Dmitry Tursonov and Sam Querry in the recent Davis Cup ties.

But on this occasion it wasn’t quite enough as Robredo’s vast experience helped him produce his best tennis in the key moments.  As expected he proved a tough nut to crack for Ward on his French Open debut.

Nevertheless the Brit should take great confidence away from this last week in Paris, not only to qualify for his first major on clay but to once again go toe to toe with a top 20 player in a best of five set match.

Next up for Ward are the grass courts at Queens Club before his chance at Wimbledon in four weeks’ time.  A good run there is not out of the question and could make the Brit more of a familiar face at Grand Slam level.

The biggest story of the day came in the men’s draw where 3^rd seed and Australian Open Champion Stanislas Wawrinka suffered a shock four sets defeat at the hands of the Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez.

There were no such problems for the two overwhelming favourites Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic who both progressed in less than two hours with minimum fuss. Elsewhere Grand Slam debutant Facundo Bagnis recorded a memorable victory beating Julien Benneteau 18-16 in an enduring fifth set.

On the women’s side Maria Sharapova and former runner up Sam Stosur were both comfortable winners, while 5^th seed Petra Kvitova and Australian Open runner up Dominika Cibulkova also progressed.

    

 

 

French Open Day 1 - Classy Federer Has His Mojo Back

When Roger Federer left Roland Garros twelve months ago, he left with doubts whether he would ever add to his prestigious seventeen Grand Slam titles.

The Swiss’ straight sets defeat to Jo Wilfred Tsonga in last year’s French Open quarter final was seen by many as the start of the great man’s fall from grace and was followed by unforeseeable defeats to Sergiy Stakhovsky at Federer’s beloved  Wimbledon and Tommy Robredo at the US Open.

Federer took little time to reach the second round

But one year on from his defeat to Tsonga, Federer is back in Paris and at 32 years of age appears to have his mojo back. His first round victory over Slovakian Lukas Lacko was as routine as they come. In 84 minutes Federer struck 40 winners, 7 seven aces and dropped only 5 points on serve to win a one sided encounter 6-2 6-4 6-2.

His draw doesn’t look too bad either, next he will face qualifier Diego Sebastian Schwartzman and despite a potential semi-final with Novak Djokovic his route there appears more than achievable.

So what are the differences from last year? For starters he has appointed 6 time major champion and boyhood hero Stefan Edberg as his coach and has recently took time off the tour due to the birth of his second set of twins.

Really this was an ideal opening match for Federer, Lacko is a solid tour player ranked 87 in the world but he doesn’t have the weapons to really challenge those at the top of the game.

Unlike that incredible upset against Stakhovsky, this never felt like a match that Federer could possibly lose and like so many times in the past the Phillipe Chartrier crowd were left to admire the shear brilliance and class only Federer can bring to a tennis court.

The Swiss’ artistic shot making and calm demeanour was too much for Lacko who buckled in the fifth game of the match to hand Federer an early break of serve. Even then it was hard to see a way back for the Slovak, like Edberg, Federer approached the net on every opportunity and abruptly sailed into the distance.

Lacko never saw a break point on the Federer serve and can consider himself a little unlucky after his first round draw against Djokovic at the Australian Open in January.

For Federer this was a perfect way to start the only Grand Slam he hasn’t won on more than one occasion, with the likes of Rafael Nadal and Djokovic around it would take some effort for him to win it again, but one thing is for sure- Federer is a threat once more and that can only be a good thing for the sport.

Earlier on Chatrier, 3^rd seed in the Women’s draw Agnieszka Radwanska beat Shuai Zhang for the loss of just three games before Serena Williams began her title defence with a 6-2 6-1 victory over Alize Lim. Elsewhere in the men’s draw home favourite Tsonga beat fellow Frenchman Edouard Roger-Vasselin 7-6(4) 7-5 6-2.

My England World Cup Selection

The countdown to the2014 World Cup has reached 32 days to go, but for Roy Hodgson the decisions have already begun. Tomorrow afternoon we’ll all know the ins, the outs, that player no one expected and the one that missed his chance as the England manager prepares to name his 23 man squad to take to Brazil.

Will he go for form, youth or experience? The wise choice would surely be a bit of each, but with many places still in doubt and opinions divided, there’s bound a talking point or two.

 

Here are the 23 players who I would take this Summer .

Goalkeepers

Joe Hart- Struggled for form mid-way through the season and lost his place in the Manchester City team, but since then England’s number one keeper has returned to the heights of two years ago and is Hodgson’s obvious first choice between the sticks.

Fraser Forster- At 6ft 7 Celtic’s keeper is an imposing figure to any striker. This season he set a new club record for the Scottish giants, keeping 11 clean sheets in a row and has played at the top level in the Champions League against the likes of Barcelona and AC Milan.

Ben Foster- After being a hot prospect at Manchester United, Foster’s chance to become one of the world’s best keepers appeared to peter out through a combination of injuries and mistakes. However after successful seasons at Watford, Birmingham and his current club West Brom, Foster is once again in contention for his country and could provide useful backup in Rio.

Defenders

Gary Cahill- Following the careers of Campbell, Ferdinand and Terry the current English centre backs have been left with big boots to fill, but if anyone looks like stepping up to the plate its Gary Cahill. Under new manager Jose Mourinho the Chelsea defender has had the season of his life and alongside Terry has been a major part of the Blues stern defence which has conceded less league goals than any other team this season.

Phil Jagielka- Everton’s captain has been in the core of the Toffee’s success ever since his move to Goodison Park in 2007. His 24 caps for the national team also show what a key part he has become in the England setup, where he has formed a decent partnership with Cahill, and the pair look set to be England’s first choice centre backs.

Glen Johnson- The Liverpool defender grabbed England’s vacant right back position with both hands following Gary Neville’s retirement. Now a regular for both club and country Johnson is relatively sound when dealing with his defensive duties but also carries a threat going forward. His 50 England caps accumulated under the management of both Hodgson and Fabio Capello show that he is a managers’ favourite and reliable choice.

Leighton Baines- His 22 appearances for England would have surely been more if it wasn’t for the consistency of Ashley Cole. However with Cole no longer a first team regular at Chelsea, Baines now looks ready to step up to the plate on the left side of England’s defence. This season has been another great campaign for Baines at Everton, where his crosses and set pieces have been a valuable asset to the Toffies 5^th place finish.

Phil Jones- United’s defender clearly has the attributes to be a top player one day, however at times Jones’ mistakes have suggested that he isn’t quite ready yet. It’s been a tough season all round for United but in Jones they have a defender whose strength, height and power mean he can play centre back, full back or even centre midfield. His versatility should also help England even if he only starts on the bench

Chris Smalling- Another United defender who has received some flack this season in the clubs fall from grace. However Smalling has been around the England setup for a while and has experience of playing for his country, he is strong, good in the air and would provide backup if Cahill or Jagielka became unavailable. Still only 24 he has time on his side and could still have a big part to play for England even if this season has been a minor blip.

Luke Shaw- England’s left back position has been a major talking point over recent months. With Baines almost certain to go as first choice, Hodgson must make the decision whether to take the experienced Ashley Cole or 18 year old Luke Shaw. Personally I would go for Shaw, while Cole has been sat on the Chelsea bench, Shaw’s performances for Southampton have been extraordinary. He defends well, picks his moments to get forward and could be the regular England left back in years to come.

Kyle Walker/ Micah Richards- If Kyle Walker recovers from injury and is fit enough to go he would be my back up for Johnson at right back. He’s been a regular at Tottenham all season and despite being a little suspect defensively he has bags of pace and gets forward with purpose. If Walker doesn’t recover I’d go with Micah Richards, who in my opinion is unfortunate not to be a regular Manchester City’s team. Despite only featuring twice this season he would be a solid replacement and can place centre or right back.  

Midfielders

Steven Gerrard- Captain for club and country, Gerrard’s ticket for Brazil must have been booked months ago. Despite his age this season at Liverpool has been one of his best where he has flourished in a deeper midfield role just in front of the back four. His range of passing is still as good as anyone on the planet and his passion and leadership will be crucial to help guide and motivate the rest of the squad. At 33 this could be Gerrard’s last chance of winning silverware with England and that should make him even more determined.

Adam Lallana- Southampton’s captain has simply gone from strength to strength this season bagging himself 9 league goals and contributing with 6 assists from midfield. His fluent passing and distribution of the ball has been a joy to watch and he thoroughly deserved his place in the PFA team of the year. In past tournaments it’s been well documented that England doesn’t retain the ball enough or for long periods, could Lallana be the player they have been crying out for?

Raheem Sterling- In the second half of this season Liverpool’s 19 year old wonder kid has took the Premier League by storm. His pace both with and without the ball has been a key part of Liverpool’s prolific attack which has blown many teams away this campaign. Under the management of Brendon Rodgers, Sterling’s confidence has reached an all-time high. His first goal against Norwich in April will be a contender for goal of the season, while his speed on counter attack can hurt any team.

Jack Wilshere- There are many who believe taking Wilshere is a gamble that’s not worth taking due to the question marks over his fitness.  After missing the back end of the Premier League season with Arsenal, Arsene Wenger has said that Wilshere will be ready for the World Cup, as far as I can see that’s a huge positive. Wilshere is another player who is good on the ball and can make decisive runs from midfield, Arsenal’s record with the 22 year old in the side is far better than when they are without him.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain- Another Arsenal youngster who has stacks of potential. Before this season Oxlade- Chamberlain was known for his pace and power on the wing, however this campaign “The Ox” , as he is known, has also become accustomed to playing a role in the centre of midfield where he has displayed some mature and assured performances. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s versatility could be big benefit for England and if his form continues the intelligent playmaker could become a regular for his country.

James Milner-The Manchester City midfielder has been the “safe option” for both Hodgson and Capello in recent tournament. He may not be a regular at City but Milner’s a solid midfielder who has experience, knowledge and can play anywhere in midfield. Milner is more defensive minded and different compared to England’s other option’s; he will provide a better balance to the team even if he doesn’t have the flair that some of his younger compatriots do.

Jordan Henderson- Like Sterling, Henderson has finally come of age in the red shirt of Liverpool this season. He’s been a regular at Anfield forming a strong midfield partnership with Gerrard, who’s been helped by Henderson’s extra energy and mobility in the middle of the park. His 34 league appearances alone show the big part he has played in Liverpool’s title bid, he’s also chipped in with 4 goals and 7 assists, so in my opinion he deserves his chance this summer.         

Ross Barkley- England’s promising youth doesn’t stop there and my final selection in midfield would be Ross Barkley. After loan spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds, the 20 year old play maker has now cemented his place in the Everton first team where he has thrived under new manager Roberto Martinez. His speed and power allow him to skip past defenders at will on the counter attack, he’s got the qualities to be match winner which could be crucial for England to progress

Strikers

Wayne Rooney- We’re still yet to see the best of Rooney in an England shirt, but this could be his year to step up to his best on the biggest stage. At times he has single-handily carried Manchester United through their toughest season for decades, scoring 17 league goals in 29 appearances. He’s undoubtedly a world class talent but the question is where his best position is? Personally I’d like to see him start in the number 10 position behind Daniel Sturridge where Rooney can create chances, link up play in midfield and ultimately score goals.

Daniel Sturridge- With 20 goals this season Sturridge currently sits second in the Premier League’s top scorers list, where he only trails his Liverpool team mate Luis Suarez. The question now is can Sturridge reproduce that form in the England jersey where he will more than likely receive less goal scoring opportunities than at Liverpool. In the past Sturridge has been played on the wing for England but this Summer I’d like to see him played through the middle as the main striker, the role he has more than succeeded in at Liverpool.

Danny Welbeck- It’s surprising Welbeck hasn’t been more of a regular at Old Trafford in Manchester United’s time of need. Many will argue that Welbeck doesn’t score enough goals or take his chances; however the 23 year old forward has shown what a threat he can be for both club and country. He can hold the ball up and bring team mates into play. He is powerful and can break away with purpose on the counter attack and can provide a useful outlet for England in Brazil.

Andy Carroll- There is always one player who sneaks into the squad at the last minute and this time I think it could be Carroll. Hodgson is likely to take either Carroll or Ricky Lambert for their height and aerial threat upfront, at 25 Carroll has time on his side over Lambert (32) and despite him not having too much game time at West Ham this season I would still take Carroll as England’s plan B to give them a different option.

And here’s why I wouldn’t take  

Michael Carrick- At the start of this season I would have said Carrick was almost certain to go, however this campaign he’s been a shadow of the player he was in Manchester United’s title winning side. He’s provided no assists from midfield and been caught out defensively on numerous occasions. At 32 his England days could be behind him.      

Frank Lampard- Now 35 Lampard is still going strong and has shown that he can still compete at the top level in this season’s Champions League. It will be a difficult call to leave Lampard out but Hodgson needs to think about building for the future and developing the young talent that he has on offer.

Ashley Cole- He’s been England’s reliable left back for years, but now it finally looks like it’s time for Cole to make way. He hasn’t been a regular at Chelsea this season and doesn’t have the same attacking threat that Baines does. In Luke Shaw England have a left back who, like Cole, could be an England regular for years to come which could mean he gets the nod at Cole’s expense.      

Ricky Lambert-When England were short of strikers in qualifying match against Moldova and Ukraine Lambert got his chance and impressed while representing his country. He’s had another good season for Southampton; however I would still take Carroll as I think he is more of a threat in the air and a bigger handful for defenders to deal with.    

Agree Or Disagree, who would you take?