The football world and beyond were all deeply shocked of the events that occurred last Saturday evening. Fabrice Muamba a Bolton footballer collapsed during the first half of a F.A. cup game. He suffered cardiac arrest and efforts to resuciate him on the pitch failed. It was very clear to see how serious the incident was when the other players on the pitch looked shocked and majorly distraught. The players heart stop beating for 78 minutes from the time he collapsed on the pitch to when he reached the London Chest hospital. It really puts everything into perspective. Thankfully since then there has been major improvement with Muamba. He is now breathing independently and able to speak both French and English. Muamba is known in the football world as a genuinely nice guy. One of the first things he said to his father as he regained consciousness in hospital was “did we lose the game”. When he was told the game had be abandoned the player asked “why”.
It’s fantastic to see the whole football community unite as one with the support offered to Muamba. Players before matches on the Sunday gave a round applause for the player. Numerous players have tweeted offering their support for Muamba. Players have wore t-shirts saying “ Pray 4 Muamba”. We all hope that Muamba makes a speedy recovery.
Last night saw the return of Carlos Tevez. The player refused to come on as a sub last September. Manager Roberto Mancini stated back then that player would never play for the club again. However, the club failed to find a deal to sell the player during the Janruary transfer window. I wonder how the other strikers feel if he takes their position on the team. What are people’s opinions with this scenario?
The premier league had become very predictable in recent years. However this year has been a whole lot different. The title race between City and United is likely to go down to the wire, Arsenal are going toe to toe with North London rivals Spurs, Chelsea are not guaranteed a Champions League place, Newcastle are holding their own in sixth and Liverpool, the Carling Cup winners are seventh.
As for the middle of the table, it’s too tight to call, with just three points separating eighth and 15, while at the bottom anyone of three from five could go in May.
Newly promoted sides like Norwich and Swansea have been a breath of fresh air, refusing to be fazed or bullied. Yet the big spenders at QPR have struggled, although last night’s win over Liverpool should give their safety bid a shot of adrenalin.
As the big clubs have dropped a level, the rest have closed the gap. It makes for exciting viewing. The Premier league is truly a competitive league again.
