King Kev all at sea on the Tyne

Messiah: Promised deliverer (Oxford Dictionary)

The King may have returned to St James’ Park but the jewels are not shining in the Messiah’s crown. Did Kevin Keegan believe that Newcastle were one attacking display away from a goal-fest of yesteryear? If he did, he was sadly deluded.

The sleeping giant of the north-east has never been in such a deep coma. True, they possess a defence resembling Humpty Dumpty’s wall but they are also blessed with players of international quality. The likes of Michael Owen, Alan Smith, Obafemi Martins, Nicky Butt, Mark Viduka, Damien Duff and James Milner have the so-called “X Factor”

Football, football, football

Are you watching the football?

David Mitchell: the next Richard Keys?!

Half-time Premiership Updates

The half-time whistle has sounded around Premiership grounds and it’s been a 45 minutes which has seen Chelsea answer their Carling Cup critics. They lead West Ham 3-0 with goals from Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and Michael Ballack, although Lampard has been sent-off after a confrontation with Luis Boa Morte.

Despite resting Ronaldo, Rooney et al, Man United continue their ruthless form, beating Fulham 2-0 at half-time. The goals coming from Owen Hargreaves and Ji Sung Park. Aston Villa lead 1-0 at the Emirates after a Phillipe Senderos own goal after 27 minutes.

Spurs have also rested three players and are without formidable defensive pairing Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King. They trail Birmingham 1-0 after ex-Chelsea striker Mikael Forsell’s strike.

Elsewhere there are 0-0 draws at the Riverside for Middlesborough against 18th placed Reading. Newcastle too are desperate for a win but are being held by Blackburn at St James’s Park. The “game of the day” at Pride Park is a bore draw so far. Manchester City host Wigan at 17.15

 A big 45 minutes then for the struggling sides and for Arsenal who need at least a draw to maintain their lead at the top of the table.