“Fact Or Fiction” is a series that will be run every Friday. In this series, an assertion will be made regarding an impacting topic in the Premier League. EPL Talk writers Matt Hackenmiller and Earl Reed each offer their views on whether the statement is “Fact or Fiction.”

Fact or Fiction: Outside of the Big Two from Manchester, Newcastle United has been the third best team in the Premier League so far this season.

MH: Fact by default. Newcastle has not lost yet this season and they have played fine football for the most part. They have also showed an ability to get points away from St. James’s Park. But picking the third best team to this point is a very tricky endeavor. Liverpool looked to that team early, but they have struggled of late. Chelsea has been uninspiring in their victories. Arsenal? I won’t go there. It could be Tottenham if they continue to play the way they did last weekend. At this point, I would say Newcastle United are the third best team in the league, although they could be knocked from that pedestal quite soon.

ER: Fiction. The Magpies have been a good team thus far, a surprise given the losses of Andy Carroll, Kevin Nolan, Jose Enrique and Joey Barton over the last 9 months. The players who remain, with a few key additions, have coalesced and found some solid early results this season. But for me, their fixture list has been somewhat kind to start the season. As Matt has said, no team has stood out to clearly be considered third-best. Chelsea hasn’t always looked at ease, which might be expected with a new manager and a haunted forward. Newcastle United and Aston Villa have been draw-happy. Stoke would be a choice, but their dismantling against a reeling Sunderland is a stain on their season thus far. Compared to those teams, Chelsea has been better on a more consistent basis: three wins and their only loss at Old Trafford.

What do you think, is it fact or fiction that Newcastle United has been the third best team in the Premier League so far this season?

The only thing that matters in the North East this weekend

This weekend will see the Wear-Tyne derby as Sunderland and Newcastle look to grab local bragging rights once again. The last derby game, at St. James’ Park, ended up with Sunderland on the end of a 5-1 drubbing and although that was considered one of the most anticipated derby games in recent seasons, Sunday’s game should be just as heated for much different reasons. Newcastle have decided to rock the boat once again this season and Alan Pardew will take control for his first local derby, coming off a terrible 3-1 defeat to League Two Stevenage. Sunderland were just as disappointed at the weekend as they lost 2-1 at home to League One Notts Country and it would appear that for one side the misery is about to carry on that little bit longer. Sunderland will be hungry for revenge after the first derby defeat and Newcastle will hope they can continue their wonderful record of playing Sunderland, with only one defeat in the last 12 against their bitter rivals. The North East had a disappointing week in cup competitions (even Berwick Rangers, from Northumberland, lost in the Scottish cup!), so I thought I’d go some of the great things that the North East has given the game of football (cheer us all up a bit, I guess!).

Sir Bobby & Jack Charlton:

The two brothers - pre comb-over...

Born in Ashington Northumberland, the two Charlton brothers are some of the most recognised and celebrated footballers in English football history. Their most notable achievement was winning England’s only World Cup in history, yet both have distinguished playing careers for rival clubs. The younger brother, Bobby, is heralded as a hero at Manchester United and one of their greatest ever players, whereas Jack made his name at Leeds United; at the time some considered him the best centre back England had ever produced. Bobby is the all time leading goalscorer for his country and will forever be remembered for his blistering long range efforts that used to terrify opposition goalkeepers. Jack Charlton is known as a hero in the Republic of Ireland after leading them to the World Cup finals and bringing glory to a country that had been known as a footballing minnow previously, with the public forever being grateful for his no nonsense style. Unfortunately, the two brothers are no longer on speaking terms after a falling out that related to family issues as many back in local Ashington champion Jack as a local hero whereas there is a lot of detest for Bobby. When their mother got sick, Bobby never came back to visit her in hospital which angered many in the community, most prominently Jack who became upset at Bobby’s actions. Jack still looks to help the local area where he grew up in; he even recently performed the ribbon cutting for the opening of the new Ashington ASDA supermarket!

The Milburn family and Jackie Milburn:

Bobby and Jack Charlton are also part of this unique North East footballing dynasty, yet many within the game are unaware with how well one Ashington family served the early years of the professional game. Jack and Jimmy Milburn, who both played for Leeds United and Bradford, George Milburn, who played for Leeds United and Chesterfield and Stan Milburn who played for Chesterfield, Leicester and Rochdale. Family members were overshadowed however by the softly spoken and modest Jackie Milburn, who became a hero at local Newcastle United. The English football hall of famer played for the Toon between 1943-57, becoming Newcastle’s all time record goal scorer until Alan Shearer recently broke the record. Despite being a prolific goalscorer for Newcastle and leading them to many title successes, he only played 13 times for England, scoring an impressive 10 goals in that time. At one point, Milburn used to play for Newcastle while also keeping his job down the local coal mine. Milburn used to learn greatly from another Newcastle number nine, Hughie Gallacher and the impact he had on the local area is clear to see, with a statue of the man in local Ashington as well as Newcastle itself. The most noticeable sign of his impact however can be seen as the St. James’ Park tribute to the great man, having a stand named in his honour.

Brian Clough:

Although you may hear Newcastle and Sunderland fans chant “you’re just a small town in Yorkshire” to their Middlesbrough counterparts, ‘Boro produced one of the most loved and exciting English managers of the 20th century, who recently had his life dramatised in “The Damned United”. Not many people realise how impressive a footballer Clough was, having a great goal scoring record for both Middlesbrough and Sunderland, although a serious injury meant his career ended prematurely. His efforts as a manager left many to label him as the “greatest English manager that never led his country”, with Clough brining success to Derby Country and Nottingham Forest, even managing to retain the European Cup with Forest; something that has been very rare in the competition’s great history. Clough will always be known as one of the greatest and most interesting characters of the English game and he is sorely missed.

Bob Paisley:

Paisley, with one of his many cups

A name that will be familiar to many Liverpool fans, Bob Paisley was born in Sunderland yet will be remembered as a one the greatest parts of Anfield history. The only manager to ever win three European Cups, Paisley is one of the reasons the trophy cabinet at Liverpool is so full. Under his stewardship, Liverpool became one of the greatest sides in the world and one of the greatest squads World football has ever seen. Much like the previously mentioned Clough, Paisley was somewhat of a character, giving great quotes such as: “Mind you, I’ve been here during the bad times too. One year we came second”. Paisley filled the gap left by Bill Shankly’s retirement and gave Liverpool its most successful spell in history.

Sir Bobby Robson:

The tribute to Bobby Robson that lay at St. James park after his death

It goes without saying really. One of the nicest men in football, the day Bobby Robson died was mourned by many across the world of football. Robson gained great respect for his refusal to back down to the English media while he controlled the national side, the comedy movie “Mike Basset: England Manager” is loosely based on his troubles at the time and how the press hounded him to leave. Instead, Robson gave England one of its proudest moments in history, by reaching the Semi Finals of Italia 90, only narrowly missing out on penalties to the Germans. Robson had a successful playing career, but his impact as a manager can be seen across Europe. A statue of Robson stands in Ipswich to mark his success of winning the UEFA cup for the Tractor Boys, with Robson going on to have a wonderful career in other European leagues, winning trophies at PSV in the Netherlands, Porto in Portugal and Barcelona in Spain. Robson fulfilled his boyhood dream however, by managing Newcastle United and leading them to much success, with a memorable Champions League campaign that saw Robson’s Newcastle side become the only ever team to lose their opening three group stage games and still qualify. Some of the world’s greatest players, such as Figo and Ronaldo credit Robson for the impact he had on their career, Ronaldo in particular worshiped the ground Robson walked on, which even saw Robson table a cheeky £18m for the Brazilian to bring him to Newcastle. If you need evidence of how much love there was for Robson in the modern game, after his death Sunderland fans chanted “there’s only one Bobby Robson” at a pre-season friendly against Celtic, being one of the few people in football to bridge such a heated football rivalry. The picture above is only a small section of the tribute fans gave to Robson, as many tributes being give in one stand of St. James’ park, with Barcelona, Porto and PSV fans even making the long journey to show their respect.

Bob Stokoe:

Northumbrian born Bob Stokoe is another that managed to bridge the gap, but unlike Robson he had a direct impact on both Sunderland and Newcastle. A player that made over 250 appearances for Newcastle United, Stokoe’s appointment as Sunderland manager may have surprised many, but he gave the English game one of its greatest ever giant killings as second division Sunderland, with no internationals in their side, beat Leeds United. At the time, Leeds were arguably the biggest club in England and were dominating the league and although many were hopeful that second division Sunderland could get a result in the final, the task of the mighty Leeds may have been one too far for the Black Cats. Sunderland triumphed however and gave one of the great stories of the FA cup that is still remembered today. A statue of Stokoe stands outside the Stadium of Light for all to see, depicting the moment when Sunderland won the cup and there was jubilation all around. Not too sure about the red pants though, Bob…

Alan Shearer:

Alan Shearer is the modern hero for Newcastle United and is one of the greatest strikers the world has ever seen. Shearer broke record after record and dedicated the majority of his career to his hometown club, despite not actually winning any trophies in the process! Shearer’s greatest success was probably in Kenny Dalglish’s (yes, he has experience!) Blackburn side which saw him and Chris Sutton form a lethal partnership, nicknamed ‘SAS’ (Sutton and Shearer). Alan Shearer was always a stubborn character, rejecting the chance to join Man Utd so he could realise his dream of playing for Newcastle, as well as often rejecting the calls for him to reverse his decision to retire from the English national side, where he had a great goal scoring record and was even named in England’s all time greatest XI. If you look at any of the English league scoring records, it is more than likely you’ll see Shearer’s name and it is usually on the top, he was a consistent performer and Newcastle really struggled when he retired. He attempted to save Newcastle from relegation with a brief stint managing the club, but they were instead relegated and when he isn’t watching his home town team play, he is sitting in the Match Of The Day studio admitting he knows nothing about Hatem Ben Arfa.

Paul Gascoigne:

It may be somewhat of a controversial choice for this list, but for those that only know Gazza as that guy who tried to calm down criminal Raoul Moat (or “Moaty” as Gazza knows him by, apparently) with a fishing rod, a few beers and a bag of chicken, should also know that many consider Gascoigne to be one of the most naturally gifted footballers to ever be produced by this country. An exciting player that scored what I consider to be the greatest ever England goal in history (as seen above, against bitter rivals Scotland), the Gateshead born midfielder never did manage to settle down at one club. Sir Alex Ferguson said in an interview once that Man United almost signed Paul Gascoigne, only for Tottenham Hotspur to buy his parents a new house in the North East which swayed Gazza’s decision. Ferguson believes that if he had signed for Man Utd, then Gazza would not have the problems he did today, as living in London created many of the problems we see in Gazza today. He gave us many great memories over the years and it upsets me in many ways to see what has happened to him now. A troubled genius, but a great footballer.

The Future? Andy Carroll, Adam Johnson and Jordan Henderson?

The English national team is going through a bit of a crisis at the moment, but there are three lads from the North East that could be a big part of the nation’s future. If you ignore the ridiculous fees that are banded around for these three players, Sunderland Jordan Henderson, Newcastle’s Andy Carroll and Man City’s Adam Johnson have all caught the eye this season and if nurtured the right way could fantastic players in the future. Carroll has taken the league by storm this season, ever since being handed the Newcastle No.9 shirt he has been a goal scoring prodigy, improving with every game he plays; even being hailed by some of the greats in the European game. Jordan Henderson has been linked with Man Utd recently, but his eye catching displays have seen him become an important part of the Sunderland midfield in their successful season and although he had a difficult England debut, he will only improve and get better. Adam Johnson at Man City has riled many die hard England fans, as he has spent a lot of time on the bench this season despite looking like a livewire on the pitch, an exciting winger that has scored some great goals this season. Only time will tell if they can carry on the North East tradition of producing great footballing icons.

Follow me on Twitter @Clusks.

Four of the top five battle it out with each other this week while Man City travel to bottom of the table West Ham. Arsenal could end gameweek 17 in fourth position, having started it Top of the table. Chances are it will be as you were. It has been such an unpredictable season that this has to be the weekend where the top five match each other and pick up a point a piece.

Having written off the Premier Leagues big hitters I’m looking further down the table for points this week. Fulham need to take three points off an in form Sunderland on Saturday. Midfielder Clint Dempsey(6.8) leads the way with 69 points this season. Man mountain Brede Hangeland(5.6) has also performed well picking up 53 points.

Sunderland are flying at the moment, due to the form of Ghanaian goal machine Asamoah Gyan(7.1), Jordan Henderson(5.5) and Nedum Onuoha(5.3). The Black Cats good run can also be attributed to the return of stopper Craig Gordon(4.5), the Scot has amassed 21 points in five games keeping two clean sheets along the way.

In gameweek 14 I said that Stoke’s Matthew Etherington(5.8) was worth a gamble. The winger has notched 27 points in his last three games, his good run is sure to continue against a Blackpool side that has conceded 29 goals in 16 games.

Alan Pardew’s first task as Newcastle boss is to address their inconsistent home form. Next up at St James Park is Liverpool in Saturday’s late game. Steven Gerrard(11.2) could feature, Fernando Torres(11.9) finally looks interested, Joe Cole(8.3) is nearing full fitness and most surprising of all Ryan Babel(6.7) played 90 minutes and scored a goal. The Magpies will be hoping that Kevin Nolan(6.1) will return from injury and that Andy Carroll(6.2) can add to his fantastic tally of 94 points.

Everton find themselves stuck in no man’s land. Right now their season could go one of two ways – An assault on the top eight, or a scrap in the bottom six. David Moyes men need to follow on from their point at Stamford Bridge with victory at home to Wigan. Centre Back Phil Jagielka(5.8) has reached a half century of points for the season, Tim Cahill(9.1) is doing for the Toffees what Steven Gerrard so often does for rivals Liverpool and Jermaine Beckford(5.1) may just be getting the knack of top flight Football. The Latics welcome back Hugo Rodallega from suspension, but I feel Roberto Martinez men will leave Goodison Park empty handed.

Last mention goes to Blackburn’s Chris Samba(5.1), one of those defenders who is imposing at the back and a genuine goal threat from set plays. Rovers have responded well after having their bottoms well and truly spanked by Man Utd and big Chris is an integral part of a normally(Old Trafford annihilation apart) tight defence.

That’s your lot for this week. If you feel like joining in the fun then join the EPL League by visiting: http://fantasy.premierleague.com/ the code you need to join is 13413-5300

Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has once again angered the clubs supporters after he sacked manager Chris Hughton. Despite Newcastle’s poor run of form, Hughton’s sacking does come as a major shock, and is incredibly disrespectful to the man who has helped bring the club back to the Premier League. 

 Hughton had been a terrific servant to the club. He looked on as the St James’ Park outfit imploded after years of turmoil working in various roles before finally taking full-time control of the club last year. 

 Admittedly he was blessed with a squad that was far too strong for the Championship, but Hughton masterminded the clubs revival, and so far this season has produced a solid mid-table side, something that with a general lack of investment from the clubs owners, is an achievement in itself. 

 There have been some real highs for the Newcastle so far this season. A Carling Cup win at Chelsea, a 1-0 win at Arsenal in the league, and most notably a 5-1 hammering of bitter rivals Sunderland, but yet still Ashley has opted to show Hughton the exit door. 

 In a statement the club thanked Hughton for his services but claimed they needed a manager with more experience. But the question is; why would an experienced manager want to take on the impossible task of working with Mike Ashley. 

 Since arriving at the club in the summer of 2007, Ashley has dismissed five managers, why on earth would another manager want to risk the same fate? 

 Take somebody like Martin O’Neill who has all the managerial capabilities to help take Newcastle to the next level, but in order to succeed would need time. At Newcastle he would never get the opportunity to build sustainable success, and would soon be classed as failure by Ashley. 

 In general, a lack of patience and over-ambition is something that many owners suffer with, and Ashley is no different. But he must understand that he will never be able to attract a top manager with this attitude, and therefore never be able to take the club forward. You have to feel for whoever takes over the reigns at the club next, because working with Ashley is guaranteed sacking on their managerial CV.

There was something inevitable about Chris Hughton’s sacking today, almost if after the last few weeks, it was a case of when rather than why. I was extremely critical of Mike Ashley’s reign in the season that Newcastle United were relegated and yet here we are again, two years on and the man simply can’t leave things alone. The trouble with some chairman is that because they own a football club, they think they actually know about football. Ashley continually proves this isn’t the case.

What I’m constantly astounded by is the Mike Ashley managed to become a multi-millionaire. How can someone who clearly has absolutely no clue about football make his money in sports retail? Hughton had done an astounding job by getting Newcastle United promoted at the first time of asking. Lets not forget this side, in the majority, were the one that limped so poorly out of the Premiership in 2008-09. Hughton cleared the dead wood, refused to panic after the humiliation of a preseason hammering at Leyton Orient and hit the ground running once the Championship season started.

Every mistake he made the first time round seems to be coming back to haunt the Newcastle faithful. Could any set of fans have such an out of touch owner since Peter Swales held the power at Manchester City in the 1990′s? It simply beggars belief that a man who employed Dennis Wise as a Director of Football and Joe Kinnear as a manager, now feels Hughton isn’t the man to take the club forward. A man who believe that Xisco was a better player than James Milner, who claimed that Newcastle fans had threatened his children and has refused to put a penny into the club in 18 months.

As Chairman go, Ashley shows all the facets of arrogance personified. Clearly he is under the misapprehension that he actually understands football when, with the exception of letting Hughton have the managers position, every major decision he has made shows he has none. He allowed Keegan to be ostracised over transfer policy, employed a manager who hadn’t managed to in the top flight for almost ten years, gave the job to Alan Shearer and then never rang him back once the season had finished and allowed Adidas to release that awful, awful cream and yellow stripe vomit inducing away kit last season.

As if I had anything left to surprise me, English bookmakers suspended the betting on Alan Pardew being the new Newcastle manager. Seriously. Sacked by West Ham, resigned from Charlton, sacked by Southampton. Of course now Martin Jol has walked out on Ajax too so he is now going to be the new Newcastle United manager. No-one has any idea really. Yet you have to ask yourself which top quality manager, after seeing the nonsense, chaos and simple bad management on display at Newcastle United would want to work in that environment.

I just feel sorry for Newcastle United’s fans. Often incorrectly portrayed as delusional big club chanting fans, Newcastle, over the last 25 years have seen so much talent leave the club, so many close shaves to major success and yet they find themselves continually run by people with no respect them as fans, as people and as consumers. That, for any set of fans is galling to take. Question is, have they finally had their fill of Mike Ashley or will the continue to turn up regardless.My colleague Matt earlier mentioned his disgust at the decision which you can read here but nothing that goes on at St. James’ Park under Ashley surprises me at all.

Please leave me your feedback below and you can follow me at http://twitter.com/paulbestall

Newcastle United may have slipped to a disappointing home defeat at the hands of Blackburn Rovers, but their star striker Andy Carroll did manage to enhance is ever-growing reputation with another goal. Carroll’s equaliser was his seventh goal of the season, a tally that will surely be enough to see him named in the England squad for next week’s friendly with France.

But his call-up will not be without controversy. The 21-year-old’s well documented troubles in his private life have seen Carroll fill newspapers throughout the UK for all the wrong reasons. Many are now of the opinion that the Gateshead born forward is not the sort of role-model that an England international should be.

While I do not wish to defend Carroll for his actions, you have to remember that he is only 21. When somebody so young is bombarded with massive wages and fame there is a real recipe for problems. Carroll isn’t the first talented footballer to go off the straight and narrow and he certainly won’t be the last.

However Carroll does seem to have an ability to switch off from his private life when he crosses the white line, something which many other footballers struggle with. For example in the week after his car was torched, Carroll headed Newcastle to victory at West Ham, an achievement which is quite remarkable.

That is a quality which could see the striker become a role model for youngsters, and I have no doubt that as he matures the problems in his personal life will become a thing of the past. If anything, giving Carroll a place in the England squad could only see him mature quicker. Fabio Capello is the ideal man to advise Carroll, and while the Italian will only be around for 2012 he could really focus the forward on making the most of his footballing talent.

His footballing talent will be enough to see Carroll as a permanent fixture in the England squad. He is hard-working and committed, couple this with his obvious ability to score goals and the Three Lions will have a real asset. So while it may be controversial in the short-term, calling Carroll in the England squad will be the best for the country in the long-term and more perhaps more importantly for Carroll’s whole career.

Barely have you had chance to draw breath and it’s time to do it all again. There’s a full midweek programme of Premier League fixtures, game week 12 is upon us already, and it’s going to be tricky selection wise as several managers may opt to shuffle their packs.

Tie of the week has to be the Manchester derby. The Blue half of Manchester have Carlos Tevez back and the Reds back line can expect a torrid time at the hands of the annoyingly persistent Argentinean. United may still be picking up points but they are struggling and will be looking for big performances from the experienced Scholes and Fletcher. It would also be a good time for Hernandez and Berbatov to rediscover their earlier form.

Chelsea and Tottenham will be looking to bounce back from disappointing weekend results. Spurs play host to Sunderland on Tuesday, and the form is with Tottenham, the Black Cats have only won once at the Lane in 26 years. Van Der Vaart is struggling with a hamstring injury, but I think Harry will risk him. Three points here are vital for Spurs’ push for the top four, Redknapp will go all out for victory on Tuesday night so it’s time to give your Tottenham forwards a run out.

I fear Fulham could pay for Liverpool’s victory on Sunday. Chelsea need to bounce back with a win and will simply overpower Fulham at the bridge. Drogba will be all guns blazing after warming the bench at Anfield for a long 45 minutes. This could be the week to rest any Fulham defenders you have in your squad.

Aston Villa’s treatment room is full of strikers right now, which equals opportunity for one young striker and if you feel like taking a gamble then Nathan Delfouneso, who could have had a hat-trick on Saturday, will be looking to make amends at home to Blackpool on Wednesday. It could also be a good time to give two more of Villa’s youngsters a chance, midfielders Marc Albrighton and Barry Bannan are turning heads for all the right reasons and both are available for under 5 million. There are always goals where Blackpool are concerned, honours may well end up even in this one but it will be entertaining.

There are two ties this week which, in all honesty, could go either way. Wolves host Arsenal and Newcastle host Blackburn. Wolves were outstanding in defeat at Old Trafford and have been impressive all season. Arsenal, being Arsenal could stroll this one or make a complete three course meal out of it. I’m going to go for the latter. Robin Van Persie made an appearance on Sunday and I’m backing him to be the difference in what will be a tight encounter.

It would be no surprise if Newcastle followed up a win at the emirates with a defeat at home to Blackburn. Nothing would give big Sam more pleasure than a victory against his former club. Newcastle should win, which is why I’m going to back Blackburn and Jason Roberts who found his shooting boots, well shin pads, against Wigan.

West Ham vs West Brom is another fixture that could throw up a few goals. Scott Parker at 5.4 million and Frederic Piquionne available for 5.1 million are well worth considering. The Hammers won’t stay bottom of the table for long and this home tie with the Albion could be the turning point of their season.

I’ve gone striker crazy in my suggestions this week, but I sense goals in game week 12 and goals mean points. Hopefully I’ve given you plenty to think about as you tinker with your attack.

If you feel like joining in the fun then join the EPL League by visiting: http://fantasy.premierleague.com/  the code you need to join is 13413-5300

Phew!! Well what can I say? If it hadn’t been for the antics of Nani and the reliable consistency of Charlie Adam, last week’s effort would have been disastrous. This could end up being a cryptic tips column where doing the exact opposite will prove the most rewarding! I have always been taught to hold your hands up and admit when you are wrong, well my arms are aching having been raised apologetically all week.

My quest for redemption begins at the back where there is a definite bargain to be had. Jose Bosingwa is fit again and available for 5.6 million. He may not have forced his way back into the Chelsea starting eleven yet, but he will, and if you have space to add to your squad I recommend you snap him up before his value increases.

There are more defensive bargains available. Liverpool’s Sotirios Kyrgiakos may play havoc with most spellcheckers but is a snip at 5.1 million. The Greek is proving to be a rock at the back for the Reds and a threat going forward at set pieces.

White Hart Lane’s current hot topic is marauding down the left wing, but if you cast your eye to the opposite flank you will see that Alan Hutton has slotted in very well at right back. He is a rampaging attack minded full back and is excellent value at 4.8 million.

Now that I’ve mentioned it I can’t ignore it. Gareth Bale has the World at his feet after having had Maicon on toast, and remarkably the Welsh wonder is currently available for 6.7 million. How the likes of Man Utd, Barcelona, Inter Milan et al must wish that Fantasy League transfer fees translated directly into the real world.

If you don’t feel like hopping on board the Bale bandwagon then for the same price you can pick up Fulham’s goal getting midfielder Clint Dempsey, or for an extra million you can opt for Arsenal’s Samir Nasri. Both are locked on 47 points and are both are bang in form.

Last week’s big tip Emile Heskey won’t be kicking any balls for a while, no, he hasn’t rediscovered his World Cup form, the big striker has picked up a knee injury. I’d look to Blackpool’s front line to fill the gap, Luke Varney and Gary Taylor-Fletcher, 4.6 and 4.5 million respectively, are performing well and confidence will be high after picking up their first home win of the Season.

I can’t leave without mentioning Newcastle, after a barnstorming derby win against Sunderland Messrs. Nolan, Barton, Carroll and Ameobi will be looking to capitalise on Arsenals disappointing showing in the Champions League. The exciting thing about Newcastle this season is their total unpredictability, Sunday’s lunchtime clash at the Emirates could be a high scoring classic.

If you feel like joining in the fun then join the EPL League by visiting: http://fantasy.premierleague.com/  the code you need to join is 13413-5300

By all accounts it has been a rollercoaster week for Newcastle United boss Chris Hughton. After an impressive win away to West Ham, bookmakers suspended betting on Hughton been the next Premier League manager to lose his job.

The pressure was heightened after the Toon were dumped out of the Carling Cup by Arsenal , but today Hughton’s side were in stunning form as they brushed aside Sunderland to record a stunning 5-1 win over there local rivals.

A hat-trick from Kevin Nolan and as well as a brace from Shola Ameobi was easily enough to guide Newcastle to victory, but perhaps more importantly for Hughton, the win could go a long way to saving his job.

Hughton himself received the backing from the Geordie faithful during today’s game and was delighted with the crowds support. He said: “It means a lot and I’m always grateful to hear that. They are a spirited group of fans. All of the decisions on contracts will be made by the club.

 “But we will enjoy today and so will the supporters. The most important thing has always been seeing a wonderful group of players doing well and wanting to do it for this football club. The win is three points against our local rivals and you can see what it means to the players.  It was a wonderful team performance with some outstanding individual performances too.”

You really do have to hope that this result will go a long way to earning Hughton a new contract. While the Toon have had a very inconsistent start to life back in the Premier League, it was only to be expected given the lack of funds spent during the summer. In many ways I think Newcastle have vastly exceeded expectations with 14 points from their opening ten games.

The pressure on Hughton comes because he does not have the big name reputation as previous managers. But previous managers have all failed at Newcastle, maybe a low-profile manager like Hughton is exactly what they need in their bid to ensure Premier League safety.

Avram Grant must love a challenge. Last year he took on the impossible task of trying to keep a debt-ridden Portsmouth in the Premier League, and this term he has turned his attentions to ensuring West Ham don’t also suffer the embarrassment of relegation.

While it has not exactly been the start that the former Chelsea boss would have hoped for with the Hammers currently sitting bottom of the league, they are currently on a four game unbeaten run in the Premier League. Tomorrow they entertain Newcastle United, and a win could be just be a much needed kick-start for their season

But it won’t be easy for the Hammers, Chris Houghton’s side have made a fairly solid start to life back in the big time, and while they may lack the big names of the Newcastle sides of old they will stole pose a real threat for Grant’s side.

Newcastle have been very much hit and miss so far this season, a disappointing home defeat to Blackpool was followed by an impressive win at Everton and it has been this inconsistency that see’s the Toon sitting in 16^th place.

Key to any success for the visitors could be Andy Carroll. The striker has had well documented personal problems of late with the last week that has seeing him released on police bail for assault before having his car torched. It is debatable whether Carroll will be in the right frame of mind to produce his best, but if he can stay focused on the game, Newcastle could gain another impressive win on the road.

But the Hammers will go in to the game with every chance of getting their first win of the season.  Their second half display at Wolves last weekend demonstrated that the Upton Park club may just have turned the corner, and in truth they probably should have won the game after Frédéric Piquionne controversially saw a goal disallowed for handball.

Piquionne is just starting to find some form with three goals in his last three games. The powerful forward showed last season that he can score goals, and if he and Carlton Cole can develop a partnership West Ham should have too much elsewhere in the squad to see off the threat of relegation for another year.

But they need to start picking up wins and this could start with this crucial game for the Hammers. A win is much needed and could set the tone for a season where Grant is rewarded for taking on another daunting task. But defeat and the knives may well be out and Grant could be looking for his next big challenge.