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Those who thought, a couple of weeks ago, that this Clasíco was shaping up like a premium Mike Tyson versus an eight stone weakling may see no reason at all to change their mind.

It’s just a fortnight since Barcelona put in what must be their worst league performance since January 2003 (then it was a 3-0 away defeat to Racing Santander, this time a pathetic display in losing 1-0 to Valladolid) and the reigning champions have only 12 out of a possible 21 points in recent matches.

Set that against Real Madrid’s relentless treatment of every kind of rival, Copa, Champions League and La Liga and this was shaping up as a mis-match.

But not for me the hoary old chestnut that ‘anything can happen’ in a ‘derby’ or a ‘Clasíco’ – there are a clutch of specific, interesting factors which while Madrid may deserve to remain favourites, narrow the gap.

Firstly the pride of the Barcelona players has been horribly wounded. Not, for once, by criticism from the media and fans but because they, as a group, fully realized that the level of commitment, attitude and effort they showed at Valladolid was totally unacceptable.

Both the victories since then, beating Manchester City 2-1 and thumping Osasuna 7-0, have been cathartic.

Key players performed with zest, concentration, energy and aggression.

Both, granted, were at the Camp Nou where Barcelona’s vulnerability has been dramatically less evident.

But tied with the recent wins at Sevilla and City there was evidence that the absolutely crucial remnants of Barcelona’s golden era are locked and loaded – Messi, Iniesta, Valdés in particular.

It isn’t quite stating the obvious as much as once would have been the case, but Messi is the key.

Mess-ter and Commander

His performances in 2014, since he lost the Ballon D’Or to Cristiano Ronaldo, have been a strange mix. When he’s played listlessly he’s either scored or assisted. When he, and the team, have hit top gear, he’s looked brilliant once more.

Historically he loves this match. The Argentinian has 18 goals in 26 meetings with Madrid, one more and he’ll pinch the all time record off his countryman Alfredo Di Stefano (30 Clasícos).

This calendar year in 17 matches, all competitions, he’s scored 17 times and made seven more.

This, just when people were beginning to question his appetite, his zip and his mood.

One might argue that Sky Sports bringing us the genius of Ronaldo and Messi every weekend has only taught the dullards to be quixotic and impatient rather than appreciative and wise.

But attentive Messi-watchers should have learned something else.

He always insists that no matter his prolific scoring, no matter that he produces lava-hot spurts of play which take a match away from any rival of any class he relies on a team performance.

He doesn’t think he produces one-man-wins, nor does he want anyone else to think that.

Martino, just as against City, needs to be smart enough to unite Cesc, Iniesta, Xavi and Busquets in the same starting XI.

If he doesn’t, if he thinks that a three man midfield and three out-and-out strikers will suffice in a 4-3-3 v 4-3-3 battle then Madrid will win, I’m sure of that.

As Time Goes Bye …

More, I think there’s the ‘old showman’ factor.

This is guaranteed to be Victor Valdés’ last Liga Clasíco – already stubborn as a mule, he’ll give extra to ensure that it isn’t a defeat.

Whether or not Puyol makes the squad everyone around him will be conscious that this, too, is not ‘au-revoir’ but adieu. For good.

There’s an all for one one for all spirit to this squad. He’s held in reverential affection by those around him – again, there’ll be an extra effort.

Xavi has a deal until 2016 but there’s pressure on his services for next season. Perhaps he’ll stay, only he knows. But IF he knows this might be his final Bernabéu appointment then watch him attempt to switch his ‘passometer’ into overdrive.

None of these factors win matches on their own, but they narrow the gap.

Then there is the lack of the ‘fear factor’. Most of these Barcelona players have played in the majority of their club’s last ten visits to the Bernabéu.

Those matches have yielded five wins, three draws and two defeats. A remarkable record.

Real Improvement

None of this is to detract from Real Madrid’s status as favourites. They are four points ahead for a good reason. Carlo Ancelotti’s team haven’t lost in any competition since the 2-1 defeat to Barça back in October. The swing in their favour has been ten points since then.

For months now they have been pressing the ball with more co-ordination and energy than Barça, they have been quick and accurate in their use of the ball.

Thus far this has been Ronaldo’s season, not Messi’s. Not only is his goal tally outrageous – closer to fifty than thirty – he’s forming a wonderful partnership with Bale who keeps on serving him assists.

More, Ronaldo has long since learned to love ‘bullying’ Barcelona.

Having failed to score in his first five games against them for Madrid and Manchester United he’s subsequently hit 12 in 17 Clasícos.

Headers, breakaways, subtle touches, shots from distance, penalties – the full repertoire. Barcelona’s only successful tactic against Ronaldo is, just as when Spain play Portugal, is to stop the ball getting to him. (Back to that four man midfield and trying to get a head-lock on possession) if they fail to do that it’s almost guaranteed he’ll score again.

Tired old excuses or a Real worry?

But if there’s a case to make that the gap between the two sides has narrowed then it might pay to heed the regular references over the last two and half weeks which Ancelotti has made to ‘tiredness’ and the ‘recuperation’ of his players.

Also to the fact that one or two Madrid players, Pepe and Di Maria, have been hit by high temperatures and allergies this week.

Last weekend in Malaga there was a drop-off in creativity and intensity and while some of Ancelotti’s key men were initially rested against Schalke on Wednesday Xabi Alonso (so vital), Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo were not while Bale and Dani Carvajal were required to come on.

Should Madrid need a tiger in their tank, however, it’s the knowledge that they defeated Barcelona three times last season, twice at home once away, and three points this weekend will almost certainly put the defending champions out of the title race.

Some value? Well, Real Madrid scored four headers, spread between Rafa Varane, Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo, in last season’s Clasícos.

Spare a thought for Barça’s defenders, too. Widely lambasted when the fault is often the lack of pressing by players in front of them it’s still the case that Carles Puyol, Eric Abidal and Jordi Alba have all scored Clasíco goals in the last couple of seasons and …. Dani Alves recently scored in each leg of the Champions League tie against Manchester City. Fancy it?

Ref justice

The referee: his decisions distinctly helped Barcelona last October (denying Ronaldo a clear penalty) but still Martino’s players absolutely distrust him. Their hackles will be up and they’ll be in ‘protest’ mode from the get-go.

This despite the fact that with Undiano Mallenco Barcelona has a lower loss % than Madrid do under him; their rivals see massively more bookings with him (Barça 98 yellows:opponents 125 yellows) than is the case when he refs Madrid (RM 133:134 opponents), his penalty ratio goes the same way (Barça 9:3 opponents while Real Madrid 9:7 opponents). But the Barça players think he’s too slow to book, too liberal with foul-play as a tactic .. and I’d say nobody will feel a fool for taking a long look at the odds for penalties and red cards.

But to make a long story short. If Barcelona control the ball they’ll go home with no worse than a draw … and still in the title chase. If Martino selects the wrong starting XI then sit back and watch Madrid boss midfield and pick off their historic rivals.

It’s dangerous picking a winner in a game of such tight margins, but all things considered, I’m going for Barca to win it by a single goal.

Graham’s bet

Barcelona to win by exactly one goal – 4/1
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1. Chelsea someway off title challenge

Chelsea have regained their tag as the Premier League’s big spenders this summer following the arrivals of Eden Hazard, Marko Marin and Oscar. As such the Blues have been branded as potential dark horse for a title challenge, with Roberto Di Matteo tipped to repeat his trick of leading the team to glory after success in the Champions League and FA Cup.

However, based on Sunday’s Community Shield, Di Matteo has a big job on if he is to secure Chelsea a third Premier League crown. Manchester City looked a class above the Blues and a lack of strength in depth across the backline is an issue Di Matteo needs to address quickly if they are to avoid another sixth-placed finish. For now it looks as though it will be a transitional season for the 9/2 shots for the title and City, at 5/4, look to be the team to beat this season.

2. No time for KP antics for England

Is any one man bigger than the team? If you are asking Kevin Pietersen he would probably say yes. The talented batsman seems to have well and truly got on the ECB’s bad side for his antics during the last Test against South Africa and has been made to pay. His exclusion from the squad for the last Test is a real statement from the selectors that they aren’t prepared to put up with a player who isn’t a team player.

With the series and their status as number one Test team on the line in the last match at Lord’s, the decision to drop Pietersen is a big one. South Africa look to have the bit between their teeth and England could find themselves up against it, especially if Jonny Bairstow’s poor form in the Test arena continues. England are 9/10 to win the last Test, with the Proteas 3/4.

3. McIlroy finding form at right time

It might seem strange to say Rory McIlroy is hitting form at the right time given there are no more majors left to play for. However, if you are hoping Europe do the business at the Ryder Cup again then Sunday’s fantastic US PGA Championship success was a welcome boost. The Europeans are 5/4 to win the Ryder Cup at the Medinah Country Club and will need McIlroy to be on top of his game if they are to repeat the success of Celtic Manor.

The Northern Irishman suffered an alarming slump in form earlier this year but showed how good he could be by lifting the US PGA Championship, his second Major title. With the Americans having enjoyed a good comeback year on the major front, McIlroy will be key to Jose Maria Olazabal’s team.

4. Djokovic rediscovers winning formula

After a difficult couple of months for Novak Djokovic he got a much needed win under his belt at the Toronto Masters. The world number two might not have an Olympic medal to show for his efforts at London 2012 but if he can retain his US Open title at the end of the month the tennis fraternity won’t care.

The Serb destroyed the field in Canada and at 15/8 looks a good bet to win the Western & Southern Open this week, even with Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Juan Martin del Potro in the field.

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1. Tottenham can muscle in on title race

With Arsenal and Chelsea both dropping points over Christmas, the onus was on Spurs (14/1 – Premier League outright) in Tuesday’s late game to prove they have what it takes to rival the two Manchester clubs in the title race in the second half of the season.

And Harry Redknapp’s men did not disappoint. After being held to a goalless draw in the first half at Norwich, Spurs eventually overcame the Canaries in the second half to record a valuable 2-0 win. The three points kept them seven points behind both United and City with a game in hand and they look well placed to mount a serious title bid in 2012.

Gareth Bale scored both goals to see off Norwich and he appears to be hitting top form at just the right time while Luka Modric, Scott Parker and Emmanuel Adebayor are all impressing.

Tougher tests than Carrow Road await for the north Londoners but they look strong throughout their squad and can muscle in on the Manchester-dominated top two places over the coming months.

2. United in no mood to give up title easily

The way Manchester City (4/5 PL outright) started the season, many pundits were predicting the Eastlands outfit could have the Premier League title wrapped up by Easter. The 6-1 demolition of United (5/4) at Old Trafford in the autumn only served to add further belief to that train of thought as Sergio Aguero, David Silva, Mario Balotelli and co were running riot.

However, the heavy home defeat to their city rivals has acted as a massive wake-up call for United and they have moved level on 45 points at the top with City following an impressive run of form.

Yes, they went out of the Champions League at the group stage but a run of eight wins from their last nine league games proves they have well and truly got the City shocker out of their system.

Consecutive 5-0 wins over Fulham and Wigan have only highlighted that further and United appear back to their menacing best.

3. Relegation race is as tight as ever

With just 10 points separating the bottom half of the table, this season’s relegation scrap could be just as tight as last year.

Blackburn (4/9 to be relegated) picked up an impressive point at Liverpool but stayed bottom – just a point behind struggling Bolton (8/13) and two off Wigan (4/6). At Anfield, Rovers proved they have the fighting spirit in them to stay up but will need plenty more if they are to eventually beat the drop.

Bolton, on the other hand, are in a bad way at the moment and the Boxing Day reverse at home to Newcastle cranked the pressure up further on boss Owen Coyle. With Gary Cahill set to leave next month, they need a fresh injection of talent and Coyle must get the Trotters motivated again if they are move up the table.

As for the rest, anyone from Norwich (4/1) down could easily get dragged into the scrap in what is sure to be a compelling second half of the season in the bottom half.

4. Liverpool need a goalscorer

Liverpool’s Boxing Day draw at home to bottom-club Blackburn highlighted various things but the most obvious is that they are craving an out-and-out goalscorer.

The Reds have top-four aspirations this season (5/2 – top 4 finish) and remain in the hunt at the halfway stage but their lack of firepower is currently costing them. Again against Rovers, like in several other games in which they have dropped points this season, Kenny Dalglish’s side carved out enough chances to have won comfortably but somehow ended up with just the one goal and another 1-1 draw.

Luis Suarez is more of a playmaker than clinical centre-forward while Andy Carroll still looks nothing like the player he was last season for Newcastle with just three goals all season. Craig Bellamy will get goals but is unlikely to be given a regular run in the side while Dirk Kuyt, last season’s top scorer, has yet to find the back of the net in the league this season.

With Suarez facing an eight-game ban, Dalglish is looking at his options in the transfer window and don’t be surprised to see him add a striker to his ranks to help improve the chances to goals conversion rate that is currently badly letting his side down.

5. There are no easy games in the top flight

Aside from United’s big victory over Wigan, the Christmas fixtures proved once again that you cannot take anything for granted in the Premier League.

Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal (evens – top 4 finish) all had what looked fairly straightforward home games but all managed to slip up as they were held 1-1 by Blackburn, Fulham and Wolves respectively.

It was the same old failing for Liverpool at home as they wasted plenty of chances against Rovers in their draw while Chelsea and Arsenal were both pegged back in their games after going in front early on. Despite pressure in both games late on from the home sides, both Fulham and Wolves held on to prove to the so-called big clubs that you have to work hard for every win in the top flight.

Leaders City, too, were expected to see off West Brom at the Hawthorns but were also held 0-0 to highlight the quality and strength in depth throughout what remains a very competitive league.

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1. Wales and Ireland are genuine contenders

While all the focus in the build-up to the Rugby World Cup was on the southern hemisphere teams and England these two nations arrived in New Zealand seemingly to make up the numbers. Neither had enjoyed the kind of build-up which would suggest they’d do well in New Zealand, Ireland losing all four of their warm-up matches.

However, the Welsh and the Irish have hit purple patches just at the right time and qualified from the group stages without too much bother. Ireland topped the group after a fantastic win over Australia, while Wales came through the group of death in second after narrowly losing to South Africa.

The two Six Nations team now go head-to-head in the quarter-finals with genuine aspirations of winning the tournament. Ireland are 8/11 for the win, with Wales 11/10 in arguably the pick of the quarter-finals. England or France better watch out, the winner of this one will be tough to beat.

2. England still searching for spark

England fans will have breathed a huge sigh of relief when Chris Ashton crashed over on Saturday to make sure they saw off the plucky Scots. Martin Johnson’s men are through to the quarter-finals but have shown nothing to suggest they will match their final appearance of  four years ago.

Problems on and off the field continue to dog England and the only blessing as far as they are concerned is they have been paired with a French side with as many issues. France (11/8, England 4/7 – match betting) have been shambolic thus far and even playing like they are England should go through. However, bigger tests are on the horizon and based on their current form Johnson’s men are likely to come unstuck.

3. Northern Ireland’s golden golf era set to continue

Northern Irish golf has never known a period like it, two major champions to their name and now the winner of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Michael Hoey. The 32-year-old had only managed one top-10 finish this year before the weekend but kept his nerve as he overhauled compatriot Rory McIlroy on the back nine in the final round.

The top three at the prestigious European Tour event was made up of players from Northern Ireland, former US Open champion Graeme McDowell finishing third behind McIlroy. With Darren Clarke claiming the Open and McIlory the US Open, Hoey’s victory rounds of a year to cherish for the Northern Irish.

4. City don’t need Carlos Tevez

If City fans were worried they’d struggle without Carlos Tevez then Saturday’s 4-0 demolition of Blackburn will have gone along way to calm their nerves. The opposition certainly wasn’t the best but there was enough to suggest that if the moody Argentinian left tomorrow no-one at Eastlands would miss him.

Since arriving at the club Tevez has been vital to City’s success but Roberto Mancini has brought well this summer and in Mario Balotelli, Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko he certainly has plenty of strength in depth. City are 5/2 to win the Premier League this season and for once aren’t relying on one man to perform. Those days, along with Tevez’s, are over for City.

5. England moving on from ‘golden generation’

Having promised to give new blood a chance after their disastrous World Cup campaign Fabio Capello is finally starting to deliver. The Italian announced his squad for the Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro on Sunday and notable by their absence were Rio Ferdinand and Steve Gerrard. Both have been struggling with injuries recently but did feature for Manchester United and Liverpool at the weekend. In the past these two would have been called straight back into the squad for such a vital game.

However, Capello decided that he didn’t need them and in the likes of Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka, Scott Parker and Gareth Barry he has more than able deputies. The days of the supposed ‘golden generation’ are over and Ferdinand, Gerrard and Frank Lampard will all have to fight for their places from now on. England are 8/11 to beat Montenegro on Friday night, with the draw 9/4 and a home win 10/3 as they look for the point they need to qualify.

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The Gunners are yet to win a game in the top flight this season, or even score a goal, after a disappointing goalless draw against Newcastle United last weekend was followed up by a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool at the Emirates on Saturday.

When you are down on your luck it looks like things are going against you and Liverpool’s opener had nothing to do with the Reds as Arsenal defender Ignasi Miquel slammed the ball at team-mate Aaron Ramsey to then see it find its way in the goal.

That followed the sending off of Emmanuel Frimpong, who showed his inexperience at this level and exposed the lack of strength in depth in the Gunners squad. Now the pressure is building on Wenger, who has also had to deal with the loss of his skipper Cesc Fabregas, who completed his protracted move to Barcelona earlier in the week.

With Samir Nasri set to leave the Emirates before the end of the month, the Gunners boss will have to splash the cash to appease the club’s fans if he still wants to be in charge at the Emirates next season.

Another man who finds himself under pressure is Ireland rugby coach Declan Kidney, who saw his side suffer their third straight defeat ahead of the World Cup next month.

The Irish went down 22-26 to the French on Saturday to leave Kidney’s side with their confidence  on the floor ahead of the major tournament, following another defeat to Les Bleus last weekend and a loss to Scotland in Edinburgh.

Things won’t get much easier for Kidney, as his side get set to host Six Nations champions England next weekend and questions have now been raised over Ireland’s preparations ahead of the World Cup.

Only a win will do against the English after this weekend’s latest defeat has placed unwanted pressure on Kidney and the Ireland (20/1 World Cup outright) squad.

In the 13-man form of the game, Wigan Warriors once again showed they are the side to beat in the Super League this season as they hope to defend their title. The Lancashire outfit thrashed the Bradford Bulls on Friday night with a superb second-half performance at the DW Stadium.

Sam Tomkins bagged himself another brace as the Warriors ran in 12 tries to put themselves in a strong position at the top of the table.

Wigan (1/4 Challenge Cup outright) are perfectly placed to do the double this season, as they continue to look strong in the Super League and have booked their place in the final of the Challenge Cup, where they will face Leeds Rhinos at Wembley.

Looking at the way they took apart the Bulls, it’s hard to see any side stopping the Warriors securing a famous double this term.

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1) Unreliable England are not contenders

Tiredness was to blame for England’s 2-2 home draw with Switzerland, but it was another sign that all is not well under Fabio Capello. The Italian is planning to leave the post after Euro 2012 (England 8/1 Outright Winners) although several pundits feel his exit should come before the tournament.

England looked solid defensively in World Cup qualifying, but since the debacle in South Africa, too many back-four regulars have looked culpable. Joe Hart looks to have resolved the goalkeeping issue, but you could argue that the defensive faces in front of him need a shake up.

England (1/8 to win Group G) should still qualify for next summer’s tournament, but there will need to be massive strides made between now and then for the Three Lions to pose any threat in Poland and Ukraine.

2) Federer has another Grand Slam in him

Roger Federer went under the radar before the French Open and the Swiss ace almost pulled off a sensational win.

After ending Novak Djokovic’s unbeaten run, Federer came close to toppling Rafael Nadal in the final and showed he can still mix it with the very best as he enters the latter years of his career.

The 29-year-old (9/4 to win Wimbledon 2011) will now look forward to the grass court campaign – his favourite surface – with renewed confidence and will have a 17th Grand Slam title in his sights.

Andre Agassi won one of the four major titles at the age of 32 and Federer has already proven that he has the physical and mental strength to win again – although Djokovic, Nadal and the rest will continue to push him all the way.

3) Stricker is the best from the US

At the age of 44, most golfers may think their best days were behind them and that a Major Championship could be out of their reach – not Steve Stricker!

The American showed he is hitting good form at just the right time, as the world’s top players prepare for the upcoming US Open. Stricker (25/1 to win 2011 US Open) collected a cool $1.1m when claiming victory in the Memorial tournament this weekend, a result that moved him to 11th in the FedEx Cup standings.

The man from Wisconsin is now the top US player in the world rankings, moving ahead of Phil Mickelson into fifth, and his consistently straight ball-hitting must give him a chance at Congressional next week.

4) McIlroy needs more time

Rory McIlroy showed more moments of inspiration in the Memorial event at the weekend, but there are still some concerns that the 22-year-old may need more time to secure a first major title.

Surely it is just a matter of time before the Northern Irishman (11/1 to win The Open Championship) wins one of the ‘Big Four’ tournaments and he says “confidence is high” ahead of next week’s US Open. But an erratic Friday and Saturday in Ohio, couple with his final round blow-up at the Masters, still leads some people to think it won’t be this year.

5) More wins afoot for Carlton House

But for a lost shoe in the closing stages, The Queen could have been celebrating Derby success on Saturday. Carlton House (12/1 to win Prix De L’Arc De Triomphe) was involved in a thrilling finish at Epsom, but had to settle for third behind the eventual winner Pour Moi.

The build-up for the big race was far from ideal, with the three-year-old suffering an ankle strain in the week prior to the race and also being drawn in a wide stall. Jockey Ryan Moore indicated his mount was unlucky and connections have high hopes for the rest of the season.

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1. Barcelona are in a league of their own

The Champions League final was billed as a clash between the most skilful side in the world and the hard work and graft of Manchester United, but on the night it was clear that skill was going to win out as it became men against boys.

United won the Premier League title by nine points and many in the sport believed that they would have enough tactical nous to contain the likes of Lionel Messi to avenge the defeat in Rome two years ago.

But the Argentinian star ran the show and the Red Devils were chasing shadows for much of the match, with the statistic of United having only one shot on target in the entire 90 minutes a true reflection of the dominance of the Spanish giants.

Sir Alex Ferguson summed it up when he labelled the defeat as a “hiding” and his description of the Catalans as the “best team he has faced” proves just how brilliant they were.

Pep Guardiola played down the pre-match hype that his current squad could be considered as “great”, but it is hard to argue against it now and the rest of Europe will be playing catch-up with the La Liga champions over the next few years if they manage to keep the current players together for any length of time.

2. Jonathan Trott is a “proper” Test batsman

He may not have been born in England but all English cricket fans will be thankful that Trott decided to throw his lot in with the Three Lions as his double century against Sri Lanka proved that his appetite for runs remains insatiable (England 10/1 to beat Sri Lanka 1st Test).

The South African-born star may not get everyone out of the bar to watch his innings but he does what he is paid to do – score runs.

There have been any number of England batsmen who have come into the side over the past 20 years and played lovely little cameo innings before giving it away but Trott just goes on and one in an uncomplicated fashion.

If it is a good ball he leaves it or blocks it, while bad balls invariably get put away for runs, and his Test record is nothing short of phenomenal.

It has to be remembered that he played his first Test under two years ago and the Warwickshire man has already scored 1,803 runs at an average of 66.77, with six centuries and five fifties.

England have ambitions to be the number one Test side in the world and with Trott in the ranks it may just be possible.

3. The right man is at the top of the golf world rankings

Luke Donald has become the new world number one after his victory in the BMW PGA Championship on Sunday and there is nobody who would argue that he does not deserve it.

The Englishman has been the most consistent golfer this year and it was fitting that he beat the man who he has replaced at the top of the standings in a play-off at Wentworth, with Lee Westwood dropping down to number two (Donald 14/1 to win US Open).

Both men are world-class players and it is great for European and English golf to have the top two in the world (Europe evens to win 2012 Ryder Cup).

Donald has already won in the states this term, with victory at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship in Arizona, and he almost made it two wins at the Heritage, only losing out in a play-off to Brandt Snedeker.

The Hemel Hempstead-born star is known as one of the nicest men on Tour and it is great to see him rewarded for all the hard work he has put into his game.

4. At least one Ferguson will be smiling on Monday

Dad Sir Alex may have been down in the mouth after United’s defeat to Barcelona but his son, Darren, has led Peterborough back to the Championship with victory over Huddersfield in the League One play-off final.

The 39-year-old began the season in charge of Preston North End but was sacked in late December last year.

He had previously enjoyed success at London Road, securing back-to-back promotions to guide Posh from League Two into the Championship, and it was not long before they came calling once again, with Ferguson installed as Gary Johnson’s successor on January 12.

The Glasgow-born tactician led them to fourth in the table but they were too good for the side that finished eight points above them, and now the hard work of trying to establish Peterborough in the Championship will begin.

It did not work out for him last time he led the club into the second tier of English football but Ferguson is a more experienced manger now and it would be no surprise to see a top-half finish next season.

5. Andy Murray must feel he is cursed

Murray has never really threatened to win a clay-court tournament until this season when two narrow defeats in the semi-finals in Monte Carlo and Rome proved that he has finally mastered the art of playing on the slowest surface.

He has yet to drop a set at Roland Garros this year and was cruising to victory over Michael Berrer when he managed to twist his ankle, and it showed his determination to succeed that he actually improved his performance to destroy the German and set up a fourth-round clash with Viktor Troicki (Murray 4/11 to beat Troicki).

It would have been hard enough for a fully-fit Murray to get past Rafael Nadal in the semi-finals and then have to beat probably Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer to win the title, but now it may well be mission impossible (Djokovic evens favourite to win French Open).

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1. Barcelona are in a league of their own

The Champions League final was billed as a clash between the most skilful side in the world and the hard work and graft of Manchester United, but on the night it was clear that skill was going to win out as it became men against boys.

United won the Premier League title by nine points and many in the sport believed that they would have enough tactical nous to contain the likes of Lionel Messi to avenge the defeat in Rome two years ago.

But the Argentinian star ran the show and the Red Devils were chasing shadows for much of the match, with the statistic of United having only one shot on target in the entire 90 minutes a true reflection of the dominance of the Spanish giants.

Sir Alex Ferguson summed it up when he labelled the defeat as a “hiding” and his description of the Catalans as the “best team he has faced” proves just how brilliant they were.

Pep Guardiola played down the pre-match hype that his current squad could be considered as “great”, but it is hard to argue against it now and the rest of Europe will be playing catch-up with the La Liga champions over the next few years if they manage to keep the current players together for any length of time.

2. Jonathan Trott is a “proper” Test batsman

He may not have been born in England but all English cricket fans will be thankful that Trott decided to throw his lot in with the Three Lions as his double century against Sri Lanka proved that his appetite for runs remains insatiable (England 10/1 to beat Sri Lanka 1st Test).

The South African-born star may not get everyone out of the bar to watch his innings but he does what he is paid to do – score runs.

There have been any number of England batsmen who have come into the side over the past 20 years and played lovely little cameo innings before giving it away but Trott just goes on and one in an uncomplicated fashion.

If it is a good ball he leaves it or blocks it, while bad balls invariably get put away for runs, and his Test record is nothing short of phenomenal.

It has to be remembered that he played his first Test under two years ago and the Warwickshire man has already scored 1,803 runs at an average of 66.77, with six centuries and five fifties.

England have ambitions to be the number one Test side in the world and with Trott in the ranks it may just be possible.

3. The right man is at the top of the golf world rankings

Luke Donald has become the new world number one after his victory in the BMW PGA Championship on Sunday and there is nobody who would argue that he does not deserve it.

The Englishman has been the most consistent golfer this year and it was fitting that he beat the man who he has replaced at the top of the standings in a play-off at Wentworth, with Lee Westwood dropping down to number two (Donald 14/1 to win US Open).

Both men are world-class players and it is great for European and English golf to have the top two in the world (Europe evens to win 2012 Ryder Cup).

Donald has already won in the states this term, with victory at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship in Arizona, and he almost made it two wins at the Heritage, only losing out in a play-off to Brandt Snedeker.

The Hemel Hempstead-born star is known as one of the nicest men on Tour and it is great to see him rewarded for all the hard work he has put into his game.

4. At least one Ferguson will be smiling on Monday

Dad Sir Alex may have been down in the mouth after United’s defeat to Barcelona but his son, Darren, has led Peterborough back to the Championship with victory over Huddersfield in the League One play-off final.

The 39-year-old began the season in charge of Preston North End but was sacked in late December last year.

He had previously enjoyed success at London Road, securing back-to-back promotions to guide Posh from League Two into the Championship, and it was not long before they came calling once again, with Ferguson installed as Gary Johnson’s successor on January 12.

The Glasgow-born tactician led them to fourth in the table but they were too good for the side that finished eight points above them, and now the hard work of trying to establish Peterborough in the Championship will begin.

It did not work out for him last time he led the club into the second tier of English football but Ferguson is a more experienced manger now and it would be no surprise to see a top-half finish next season.

5. Andy Murray must feel he is cursed

Murray has never really threatened to win a clay-court tournament until this season when two narrow defeats in the semi-finals in Monte Carlo and Rome proved that he has finally mastered the art of playing on the slowest surface.

He has yet to drop a set at Roland Garros this year and was cruising to victory over Michael Berrer when he managed to twist his ankle, and it showed his determination to succeed that he actually improved his performance to destroy the German and set up a fourth-round clash with Viktor Troicki (Murray 4/11 to beat Troicki).

It would have been hard enough for a fully-fit Murray to get past Rafael Nadal in the semi-finals and then have to beat probably Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer to win the title, but now it may well be mission impossible (Djokovic evens favourite to win French Open).

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1 – England have hope after ‘golden generation’

Before England’s win over Denmark, all the focus was on whether Jack Wilshere would do well in his new role as a holding midfielder. Well, as they say, the proof was in the pudding as the 19-year-old showed he is a class above Gareth Barry. The Manchester City man struggled in the World Cup and based on Wilshere’s performance this week, his days as a starter could be numbered. The World Cup and subsequent Euro 2012 qualifiers have shown green shoots of hope, particularly with the likes of James Milner, Joe Hart, Wilshere, Theo Walcott and Michael Dawson showing their international capabilities.

After being let down by Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry and co, England fans might be feeling a little bit optimistic about what the future will hold. England’s win over a decent Denmark team showed the Three Lions have strength in depth, with a raft of changes seemingly not affecting their rhythm. It is probably too early to start talking about England as Euro 2012 contenders, but at 9/1 to win the tournament I’m sure a few punters will be persuaded to take the plunge.

2 – Republic of Ireland should reach Euro 2012

While it is dangerous to read too much into friendly matches, Ireland’s comfortable win over Wales can’t really be ignored. While the first half was nothing to write home about, the second saw them score three good goals and they never really had to break a sweat. The Republic currently sit second in their qualification group behind Russia, who beat them in October.

Ireland are 5/4 to make it through to Euro 2012 and as long as they avoid France in the play-offs, they should be fine. People will say they haven’t made it out of the group yet but with Armenia and Slovakia – who lost to Luxembourg on Wednesday – their closet contenders, it could be a triumphant return to a major tournament after a ten years absence.

3 – Levein starting to get the best from Scots

Wednesday’s victory over Northern Ireland in the Nations Cup might have been expected, but perhaps the manner in which they so convincingly beat Nigel Worthington’s men might have come as a shock. Scotland’s third goal involved a build-up that Spain would have been proud of as they passed Northern Ireland off the park.

Scotland’s hopes of qualifying for Euro 2012 are all but gone, after one win from their first four qualifiers,, but the future is beginning to look bright. Scotland are 8/1 to qualify for their first major tournament since the 1998 World Cup and they seem unlikely to break that duck just yet, especially with Spain in their group. However, the battling display against the world champions and two wins since then have given cause for optimism for 2014 World Cup qualification.

4 – Without their star men Wales are poor

Optimism surrounding Wales was high after Gary Speed took the reins as national team coach. However, reality made a speedy return to Welsh supporters after their disappointing 3-0 defeat at the hands of the Republic of Ireland. Speed had plenty of big name withdrawals to cope with and without them, Wales justify their position as 116th in the Fifa rankings. Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Craig Bellamy are effectively Welsh football right now and until Speed can unearth some fresh talent, they looked doomed to struggle for the next few years.

Wales play England next in their Euro 2012 campaign, which is already over after three defeats in their first three matches.  In Cardiff, and with Welsh fans baying for blood, they might give England a bloody nose but that could be as good as it gets.

5 – Northern Ireland going backwards

Remember the days when Northern Ireland were on the verge of qualifying for a major tournament and David Healy was the most prolific striker in Europe? Well they appear long gone and if you are a supporter of Worthington’s men, you might be concerned. Wednesday was a glimpse into what the future might hold for the North and it wasn’t pretty. Admittedly they had 11 players missing but when you make a big fuss over George McCartney retiring from international football, you know you are in trouble.

Like Wales their hopes of making it through to Euro 2012 are pretty much over, a draw against the Faroe Islands in a game which did nothing to convince Northern Ireland’s fans things will get better. For Worthington and co expect a long, hard 2011.

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1 – City can still win the Premier League title

Manchester City were the only team in the top four to gain a victory this weekend and Roberto Mancini’s side have renewed title hope…mainly due to their rivals form. United were beaten at Wolves and their away form will still be a big concern to Sir Alex Ferguson, while Arsenal and Chelsea look all over the place at the back.

Hat-trick hero Carlos Tevez is currently the best striker in the league and can lead City (12/1 Premier League Outright) to top spot, but he has prove his worth in next weekend’s Manchester derby.

2 – The letter ‘W’ is cursed!

All of the bottom four teams in the Premier League begin with the letter ‘W’ and three of West Ham (8/13 to be relegated), Wigan (4/7), Wolves (8/11) and West Brom (6/4) look set to go down. Wigan and Wolves gave themselves hope with massive home wins, but the inconsistent Hammers lost again at home and the managerless Baggies need some inspiration from somewhere after 13 defeats in 18 games.

If you are not convinced about this season’s curse check out the League One table, where Walsall also sit in the drop zone! Wycombe fans may disagree, as they are currently second in League Two.

3 – Six Nations is a two-horse race

England (11/10 Outright Winners) and France (13/8) showed they are the two teams to beat in the Six Nations this year, while Italy may not be propping up the rest come mid-March. Martin Johnson’s men should have beaten a confidence-shot Wales by more, while France didn’t need to be at their best to rack up four tries against Scotland.

Ireland’s last-gasp win in Rome highlighted how Declan Kidney’s side have gone backwards, with their title hopes looking slim despite a first-game victory. A much improved Scotland could have a say on where the title goes, which must be either Twickenham or the Stade de France.

4 – England can’t win the World Cup

After a brilliant Ashes success Down Under, confidence in England’s one-day squad looks shot after a 6-1 series defeat to Australia. Injuries have also plagued Andrew Strauss’ squad and with two weeks until the tournament starts, the selectors have no idea who will be in the squad as they await medical reports.

Arguably their two most important 50-over stars, Graeme Swann and Eoin Morgan, are among those rated doubtful and without them, the best England (6/1 Outright Winner) can hope for is qualification from Group B.

5 – Veteran star can win the Masters

This weekend’s golf has shown that the veterans can still pose a threat in the Majors, after a timely return to form for two stars. Thomas Bjorn was in inspired form to take the Qatar Masters title by four shots, with the Dane proving the doubters, who thought his Tour career was finished at 39 years of age, wrong.

Meanwhile, Vijay Singh (80/1 to win 2011 Masters) has enjoyed a renaissance on the US Tour with the 47-year-old carding four sub-70 rounds at the Phoenix Open. The Fijian is a former winner at Augusta and a three-time Major Champion.

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