Source: Liverpool_Echo
BARRY HORNE: Mick McCarthy’s team selection can change the face of the Premier League
I HAVE just watched a week of brilliant football Evertons two thrilling draws, taking a point off Chelsea yet seeing the London Blues still increase their lead at the top of the table, then a typical midweek of shocks and upsets which makes the Premier League what it is.[LNB]Unpredictable, exciting, compelling and above all, ultra competitive.[LNB]Enter Mick McCarthy, with a team selection that really does threaten to change the face of the Premier League.[LNB]It has long been received wisdom that there are leagues within the league.[LNB]If more teams are to follow McCarthys lead that could actually become a real truth.[LNB]I have seen a lot of Burnley this season and they always have a go. As a result they beat Manchester United, Everton and drew against Arsenal.[LNB]Eight of Owen Coyles men have played in every single game this season.[LNB]Sunderland went to Old Trafford and had a go. They were unlucky not to win, yet have lost or drawn to West Ham, Portsmouth, Wigan and Fulham. Oh and by the way they beat Arsenal and Liverpool too![LNB]The moral must be that nothing should be taken for granted and there really is an obligation to make every game as competitive as possible.[LNB]In addition Mick McCarthy has now heaped incredible pressure on his players for Sunday.[LNB]McCarthy has been quite open about his plans, yet is still unlikely to be punished for blatantly breaking a law which requires a club to field its strongest team at all times.[LNB]McCarthy will undoubtedly point to other clubs who have gone unpunished.
