Upset Alert!

Now, this may be hard to believe, but I'm not psychic. It's not for a lack of trying. No, in fact I have a psychic coach by the name of 'stargazing' Stella and she says I'm getting close. Real close. And don't you get all cynical on me, I was unsure too before I met her but, that first time we crossed paths, Stella told me that she knew that I'd be coming! Crazy huh?

Anyways, psychic or not, I do consider myself the footballing next-pert (I thought that was real clever, trademark beta blogger) so let's figure out where the upsets may lie in this week's Carling Cup ties. If nothing else, it will be good practice for when the real competitions begin.

A few games to pick at:

Arsenal v West Brom - Why it won't be an upset: Because the Gunners have yet another imperious crop of youngsters for Arsene Wenger to call upon. Because Arsenal have made at least the quarter-finals for the last 6 years and because West Brom, while they do play some delightful football, can't cope with the pace and ability of the Premiership outfit. Because Wilshere and Ramsey are excellent.

Chelsea v QPR - Why it won't be an upset: Because, although Rangers did manage to defeat Aston Villa at Villa Park in the third round last year and are performing well this season, Chelsea are very strong at home and have won every game under Ancelotti. Because Joe Cole and Yuri Zhirkov are set to play and, well, they're a bit good.

Leeds v Liverpool - Why it won't be an upset: Because Liverpool will play a strong team and will have the likes of Gerrard and Torres to call upon if needed. Because it will be on Sky Sports - the home of the un-unpsets. Because I started this late and Liverpool have already kicked off and look pretty decent.

Aston Villa v Cardiff - Why it might be an upset: Because, despite the fact that Villa have lost at home to Championship sides in each of the last two seasons, they have won their last 4 and have kept 3 consecutive clean sheets. Because Cardiff, unfortunately, are not in good form having lost 3 of their last 4 and have not beaten a top-flight team in over 20 years. Because, although they there's little reason to believe they can, Cardiff can claw onto the 'magic' of the (Carling) cup... Why isn't there a sarcasm font on here?

Nottingham Forest v Blackburn - Why it might be an upset: Because Blackburn are low on confidence and are struggling to score goals. Because, in spite of Forest's mediocre start, poor head to head record and recent lack of form in the Carling Cup, this seems prime upset material at the home that Cloughie (a 4-time League Cup winner) built.

Stoke v Blackpool - Why it might be an upset: Just because. Alright?

Preston v Tottenham - Why it will be an upset: Because Spurs are missing Woodgate, Dawson, King and Bassong at the back. Because Preston have begun the year well and have a physical front pairing of Parkin and Mellor. Because Tottenham are due a loss in the competition, having made the last two finals and because Stella thinks so. So there.