Carling Is Worth Fighting For
Call it the poor relation, but the Carling Cup offers a passport into Europe, and for teams like Tottenham, it is certainly worth winning. Harry’s side may find it difficult to break into the top half of the Premier League this term, but entry into next season’s Europa League would make their season a success of sorts.
If they are to retain the trophy, Manchester United are most likely to stand before them. You would have to expect Fergie’s second string to overcome Derby, who no doubt will welcome the arrival of Nigel Clough as their new manager.
Ladbrokes have quoted United at 7/1 to reach double fugures over the two legs, but the Championship side would be expected to have enough resolve to avoid a thumping. More appealing, though at less attractive odds (8/13), would be for Derby to hit the onion sack once over the two legs.
Tottenham should not count their chickens ahead of their clash with Burnley in the other semi. Own Coyle’s side currently lie seventh in the Championship and should prove doughty opponents. This tie should still be in the melting pot for the second leg.
Premier League survival in these challenging times is paramount, and Tony Adams and Mark Hughes are both priced at 6/4 to be next to walk the plank. Jermain Defoe’s leaving may be the start an exodus from Pompey, and so you may have to fear for Adams, who does not have the pot of gold at Mark Hughes’ disposal. However, can Hughes mould a successful side that will challenge for honours? With signings like Wayne Bridge and Scott Parker, you would have to doubt it.
If both men survive until the end of the season, then it’s a huge obstacle jumped. We then may look to Big Phil as having moved on at 4/1 if major trophies don’t arrive on the Stamford Bridge cupboard. Such is the pressure, as Chelsea’s owner seeks some reward to compensate for his now diminishing fortune.
