Only a fool would deny that Wayne Rooney is at the absolute top of his game. The Manchester United striker has been in top form for his club this season, netting 30 goals already. The two he bagged against Milan last night show just what a talent he is. More than that, he has the drive and determination to turn his innate skill into world beating class. However, it is this determination that could prove to be his down fall in the end.

Rooney is a great player, no doubt about it, but...

jamestaylor

I'm not usually a big fan of international friendlies. The games are usually played at a very low pace and against sub-standard opposition. That makes it very difficult to actually learn anything about the players on show. However, perhaps the only exception to this rule are the matches that take place in the run up to major tournaments. Take England v Egypt tonight. Ok, they'll still be plenty of reasons for the leading England players to take their foot off the gas - who could blame Wayne Rooney...

jamestaylor

Football fans tend to fall into two separate groups. On the one hand you have the overly pessimistic who think their side will never win a game again and the manager should sacked forthwith, on the other you have the overly optimistic who believe no matter how bad a situation is there is always a chance of their side winning the day. Both as bad as each other. The former has relegated their side before a ball has even been kicked, while the latter will think their team will win the title no matter...

jamestaylor

The European hangover has dogged Arsenal in the past. Indeed, Wenger has blamed it for costing them valuable points in the league matches that follow their jaunts overseas. This weekend, things might be a little different. Although the side will no doubt be jaded after their exertions in Portugal on Wednesday, something else will see them through against Sunderland - anger. Porto's second goal was a farce and Arsenal players will rightly feel aggrieved. What's more they will also be looking to take...

jamestaylor

No matter who you support you've got to admit that Tony Pulis is doing a great job at Stoke City. When compared to some of the other teams in the league his transfer budget is all but non-existent. Yet somehow, through good man management and excellent fitness training he has managed to cobble together a squad that looks a safe bet for mid-table once again. Perhaps this weekend's cup tie against big spending Manchester City will provide some sort of indication as to just how well Stoke can do. While...

jamestaylor