Ahoy there shipmate!

Shiver me timbers, first the treasure of English football comes under attack from UEFA President Michel Platini, and now our clubs are being labelled pirates.

Italian clubs Palermo and Reggina have broken out in support of Platini’s remark that English clubs are poaching the best European talent before they even pull on the shirt of the club that has nurtured them. This in turn is of detriment to the development of young English players who barely get the chance to shine in the Premiership.

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.