Supporters of Manchester United worldwide are never short of their Christmas boxes. Alex Ferguson has always seen to it that tradition does not lose its bearings. Despite the unusually huge loss of points at this point of the league by their own standards, United have proved that they are the real masters of the game during the yuletide and they will not surrender the title without a good fight.

Wigan Athletic mauled 5-0 at Old Trafford yesterday were unfortunate to have met a wounded Manchester United at a period when their spirits are traditionally high.  The days are gone when they had those gaping holes at the back and could lose miserably to Aston Villa (no disrespect to Villa).

Chelsea must feel most uncomfortable with United and Arsenal breathing so closely on their neck. It is hoped the absence of their Africa Cup Stars especially Essien and Drogba, would not unduly disrupt their rhythm and they should still be able to make life at the top interesting. On paper, Arsene Wenger’s so called Arsenal youthful team have a good chance of snatching the second spot if they successfully clear their outstanding match against Bolton on January 6. The league would then have entered what is termed in horse racing as the home stretch. In view of the upcoming World Cup in South Africa, many of the international stars might be unconsciously tempted to save their limbs for the Mundial and it would be interesting to watch how they pace themselves for crowded programme.

Cleary there are exciting days ahead. Cheers everybody, happy New Year to all my readers and keep loving sports. 

FROM MY ARCHIVES

Dec 20th 1999: Zambia’s national soccer team has flown home after cutting short a horrible tour of the Americas.Players and officials complained about over-crowded accommodation, bad food and poor training facilities on the trip to Miami which had been planned in preparation for the 2000 Cup of Nations.