CHELSEA SACK ANDRE VILLAS-BOAS

The breaking news of today. Villas-Boas has been sacked after 8 months in charge, following a run of just 3 wins in 12 and dropping to 5th position in the league, ending with a 1-0 defeat at West Brom yesterday. And I'm not unhappy.

When he was appointed back in June last year, Abramovic's choice to choose the 33 year old was promising. To go for a relatively young and inexperienced manager seemed like a change in approach, an approach to plan for the future and sustain a project. This is something I have been longing for as a Chelsea fan, we just need a consistent manager to be given time. And to be honest, I thought any high calibre manager would have brought great success to the club, with four or five years to build and make the side his own. That still goes for the likes of Ancelotti or Hiddink (though perhaps less so for Avram Grant or Di Matteo). But we've continued to chop and change, here we are again again. Again.

But sadly, I'm really not that sad to see the back of AVB. Up until one or two months ago, I would have urged for us to keep him and give him that time. Since then though, I've seen the most lacklustre performances, no spirit, and simply utterly boring matches with dreadful results. And while I commend the faith in youngsters like Sturridge or new players like Luiz and Torres, I just don't see any justification at all in leaving out Frank Lampard over the likes of Ramires, Meireles and Mikel, all of whom are average at best and certainly incomparable to Frank. I'm up for change but it's got to be for the better. Besides, Lamps is fucking quality, I'd choose him any day in any side.

So, considering the poor form and poor motivation I've seen on and off the pitch, the axe might have been the only thing to turn it around, at least for the short term. Hopefully we go into the weekend's FA Cup tie with Birmingham holding a fresh mindset and show the desire that is expected at a top club, or at any club for that matter. Who we look for come the end of the season I don't know, but he has to be for the long haul, and I mean long. And he can't be omitting Lampard from the starting XI.

ENGLAND 2012 HOME SHIRT TAILORED BY UMBRO

I've written on numerous occasions very highly of Umbro's recent gear, and the "Tailored by Umbro" England shirts are so on point. I'm always excited for the new release and today they dropped the 2012 Home kit. And it's a big one, as the nation's expectations are fully carried with it into the Euro championships this summer, despite the off-pitch madness surrounding the squad at the moment. Surely, Redknapp will take the role right? But that's all for another day.

The shirt comes in a clean two-toned design, inspired of course by St George. Completely cutting out the unnecessary and totally epitomising the concept of simplicity, it's a really beautiful shirt. Crafted to a slimmer and smarter fit, the technology is all there, ready for players and fans alike. The most interesting of new features is the one button fastener for the collar. Buttoned down it presents as a normal traditional football shirt with a slick red strip at the neck, but turned over, it reveals an intricate stripe in tonal red, based on St George's flag and the iconic 1966 Sir Alf Ramsey jacket.

For me, Umbro continue to impress, and it looks excellent. With all the hard work done on the designers' part, let's hope the players can follow suit. I sure hope so.

PUMA FOOTBALL BRINGS JAPAN TOGETHER

Puma have launched their new campaign "Puma Football. Brings Japan Together." Football in the disaster-struck nation has had a huge effect over the last couple of years, with both the men and women reaching great success on the international stage, which has consequently made the sport and its players front page news.

This week, Puma released the TV commercial for their all new Powercat 1.12 boot, fitted with the latest technologies for a good grip to enhance shooting power. It features many Japanese household names, including national team captain Makoto Hasebe. It's very encouraging to see all forces of the industry working to make Japan closer and stronger.

CHELSEA SIGN GARY CAHILL

And so it was confirmed yesterday that English centre back Gary Cahill had finally completed his move from Bolton Wanderers. He arrives at Chelsea as a very capable defender, and with good experience too. I would think he's set to become John Terry's preferred partner over David Luiz for the second half of the season, with the latter showing some naivety and room for learning in his recent performances. The potential is certainly there, already displaying his vibrant character and attacking flair. For now though, I'd feel more comfortable with Cahill there, who's got a mind to attack himself, having scored 15 goals at Bolton.

The most interesting thing to come from his signing perhaps is on the England front. For the defensive trio of Terry, Cole and now Cahill to be playing together week in week out at the highest level of club football can only strengthen the solidity in communication and structure, which will be key on the international stage I believe. Regularity and consistency is something England have not enjoyed much of, and if Terry and Cahill can extend and improve their partnership, then this ought to be exciting news. Especially with the position up for grabs with Ferdinand's form and fitness on the decline. I look forward to seeing him in action.

ADIDAS ADIZERO F50 MESSI

The unrivalled world's best footballer to grace the pitch with the generation's most incredible feet, Lionel Messi was awarded his third successive Ballon D'Or award this week. To mark the special achievement, his main sponsor adidas and their fitting three stripes have created these custom adizero F50s for him to wear for the second half of the season. Coming in a clean white and gold colourway, this just goes to show how bad all the vibrantly coloured mainstream lines are in comparison. I just don't understand the current trend in football boots with candy purple, flash green and blinding orange, they're just silly. But this Messi model is very pretty and it features the award-winning years, a message of gratitude, the Argentinian flag, and also Leo's new personal logo, following the likes of Tiger Woods and Roger Federer. It's a brilliant pair of boots, available to all through miCoach.

In related news, do you know who won the women's award? Japanese national captain Homare Sawa, who had a truly dazzling year, leading the nation to its first every World Cup accompanied with the top FIFA world ranking. The equivalent coach's award was given to the Japanese coach, Sasaki, who managed them to this superb feat. Amazing news.

EPL: NEWCASTLE 0 - 3 CHELSEA

We've had a torrid season thus far for Chelsea's standards, slipping out of the top four in the league, struggling to qualify for the Champions League knockout phase, being knocked out of the League Cup. I went to watch the that defeat to Liverpool in the Carling Cup quarter-finals and I was really disappointed. Not so much with the result, but more so our dire performance. I can see that we're looking to play a passing game, connecting the ball through the pitch short and simple (which is great) but unfortunately there were too many misplaced passes and poor first touches. To add to it, there was very little creativity in attacking situations, lacking sharp decisions for the final move to get a chance on goal. And we deservedly lost 2-0.

But it appears Chelsea have bounced back well, recording a 3-0 victory earlier today against Newcastle away. We bossed the midfield, created a heap of chances and looked very good. I was worried with the amount of fruitless efforts, but we kept at it whilst defending well, and in the end scored three decent goals to put us into 4th and elevating confidence all round. Let's hope this kicks off an impressive December, continuing on Tuesday against Valencia and Man City the following weekend. Really, we need it to go well.

EURO 2012 FINALS DRAW

So the draw has been made for the four groups at the Euro 2012 Finals next summer, hosted in Poland and Ukraine. Basically we have the weak group, the death group, the almost-death group and the mediocre group. Group B is sure to have some super football there, I can't wait to watch. But as an England fan, my attention will be with Group D as we face some tough opposition (of similar level I'd say) to really test our progress over the last couple of years. Of course, the World Cup was pretty poor but the stats have been impressive since, having remained unbeaten throughout qualification, as well as recording victories against Spain and Sweden most recently. France are the last side to have won against us precisely one year ago.

Having missed out in playing at all for the 2008 Finals, I'm just glad to be able to support a team next summer, but how far we go I have no idea. It is true we have improved as a team over the last two years, with some youngsters bursting with much-needed energy finding good form at the right time too. Assuming we make the quarter-final knockout stage though, we are set to face the likes of Spain or Italy, so a semi-final may be what would define our campaign a 'success', but it's going to be fucking difficult. We need to perform.

LA GALAXY MLS CUP WINNERS 2011

Five years on since his transfer to the Los Angeles Galaxy, David Beckham got his first piece of silverware in America, lifting the MLS Cup last night having beaten Houston Dynamo 1-0. Having made the switch from Real Madrid in order to expand soccer in the US, he's probably enjoyed a pretty successful time with attention on the MLS bigger than ever, larger crowds and more headlines, and an increase in world class players (think Henry, Keane, etc). It's great for him to claim a winners' medal too, just as he has done at Real and Man Utd.

The focus will now turn to Beckham's future as his contract with the Galaxy is almost up. Yet to officially disclose whether he will renew it or start a new venture, there's plenty of intrigue for the 36 year old former England captain. Wherever he chooses though, I'm sure he'll still be playing his top game and drawing success, as he looks to lead out Team GB in London 2012.

UMBRO SPECIALI '92 COLLECTION

Having held the Launch Party last night, Umbro today released their limited Speciali '92 collection to mark the Speciali football boot's 20th anniversary. The boots have been worn by some of football's greats, involved in a number of pretty special goals. They are celebrating with strictly limited quantities of select products, all available in a killer black colourway highlighted effectively by whites and golds to emphasise the collection's exclusivity, of which it has plenty.

The football boot is of course a main attraction, but I do also like the leather Milton Shoe and leather Anthem Jacket, both very special editions of Umbro's more popular items crafted with quality leather. The detail on the jacket's flat rib tonal trim is excellent, it's a super piece. Remember, they've just gone on sale today and numbers are extremely limited!

UMBRO TEE SHOP REMEMBRANCE DAY

The Umbro Tee Shop, now on their 38th week since inception, have continued to bring some great simple football tees, filled with clever visuals and playful phrases, all strictly limited in number and exclusive to their official online store. And with Remembrance Day coming up later this week, they have fittingly released the Remembrance tee, featuring a customised Three Lions England badge to show support for the Poppy Appeal, to which all proceeds will be donated to. It's only just dropped this hour so hurry to checkout to claim yours.

DAVID BECKHAM HYPEBEAST TV PART 3

In the final part of David Beckham's interview for Hypebeast TV, he talks about L.A. Galaxy, the growth of football in the US, AC Milan, and his collection with James Bond for adidas Originals. The series has looked at how he sees his sport and fashion, the relationship between them, and also his role almost as an ambassador in the two worlds. A great insight into one of the world's greatest football players ever. Watch Part 1 and Part 2 here.

I think it's worth mentioning how he's got this brilliant technique of being arrogant but coming across humble and modest. Remember, talking about his ObyO collections with UNDEFEATED, he's telling us what amazing products he's making and how "people love it", "the best I've ever seen". Joker. I do quite like the range though to be fair. And he says there's more to come.

DAVID BECKHAM HYPEBEAST TV PART 2

Part 2 of the interview was released on Hypebeast's website today, where Becks talks about Real Madrid, his adidas boots, players' styles and teamplay. Check out Part 1 here.

I do despise how he says "soccer".

DAVID BECKHAM HYPEBEAST TV PART 1

Hypebeast TV has hooked up with the football legend that is David Beckham and today dropped the first part of three in a series where he talks about his views toward the sport and to fashion. "Journey to L.A." it's called. He's a huge icon for me personally, my favourite player for sure, and it's great to see him share his thoughts.

In Part 1, he's asked about himself as a player, his interest in fashion, his time at Manchester United and the relationship between fashion and 'soccer'. He gives a massive boost for adidas, stating they're the "biggest" manufacturers - he's getting love for that for sure! Anyway it's a nice candid interview and you check the special page too. Part 2 coming soon.

NEW CHELSEA SIGNING JUAN MATA

On the day that Arsenal saw Samir Nasri leave for Manchester City, Chelsea have made a signing of their own in Juan Mata, on a five year deal from Valencia. The Spanish winger is the fourth new player to join the club, following the arrivals of teenagers Romeu and Lukaku as well as goalkeeper Courtois who has gone out on a season-long loan. He brings with him the experience of World Cup success having featured for Spain in their winning 2010 campaign, along side Torres of course.

Mata's name had been in the news frequently during this summer's transfer window but it's always been linked with the other London clubs Arsenal and Tottenham, so it's quite a surprise for me to see him signing for us. It feels like a steal really, especially with reports saying he actually turned those two clubs down explaining that he wanted to win silverware. Justified perhaps, but it's quite a swipe at our rivals I think. Already in contention to play against Norwich this weekend, I'm excited to see him link up with our top strikers and show some much lacked creativity and speed.

ADIDAS CHELSEA FC THIRD KIT 2011/12

Unveiled one week ago, this is the new third kit for Chelsea's new season by adidas, which completes the wardrobe of outfits for the 2011/12 campaign. Featuring TechFit™for optimum playing enhancement and comfort, this new kit comes predominantly in white with some neat colour blocking of navy blue and yellow on the chest, and I do really like it. I actually think that Chelsea this year have a very strong series of match kits, with the retro-inspired hooped blue home shirt as well as the modern take of the away kit which has those sharp turquoise squares. Just got to decide which one to buy now. Shame they're only valid for one season nowadays.

CHELSEA FC PRESEASON 2011

Under the leadership of a new manager in Andre Villas-Boas, Chelsea will be looking to regain the championship title as well as doing one better in Europe than our 2008 adventure. For the club's preseason tour this year, we returned to Asia as well as games against Championship opposition in England and of course today's final test against Rangers. Winning every game, scoring 18 and conceding just 1, it's been a successful build-up to the new season, which promises to be as tough as any other if not tougher.

We've been pretty quiet in the transfer market, buying just two teenagers and disposing of none, although Yury Zhirkov looks set to be departing soon, which I don't think we will be missing too much. I suppose we've already got some new and exciting players in our younger players, who seem to have developed nicely of late, namely Daniel Sturridge who's been excellent during preseason following his great loan stint at Bolton last season, and also Josh McEachran who has shown top ability these last few weeks and in a handful of cameo appearances last campaign too. He's a brilliant passer of the ball with great vision, technique and awareness - attributes required for a top central midfielder. I think he is a future starlet to watch out for, if not for the present already.

Speaking of stars, Fernando Torres has also had a decent preseason run, where he's been part of heavy rotation up front, with AVB giving each of our strikers plenty of opportunity in various positions too. Torres has scored twice and has been looking sharp, especially in the match at the Ibrox earlier today. Drogba too has been in typically good shape, though there's not been any clear indication as to how they will line up come the start of the season. But I'm convinced the manager has some ideas up his sleeve.

The new 11/12 season begins next weekend, Chelsea playing away at Stoke on the Sunday, and as with any football fan I cannot wait. I believe the team has great dynamics at this moment and the new manager looks more promising than any other of late, just a gut feeling. Also, just a heads up for my Fantasy Football league, ORIGINAL LONDON. will be hosting another league this season so make a team and play with me.

THE UMBRO TEE SHOP

I've already spoken about my fondness for what Umbro are currently doing and their football/lifestyle approach. And this here is just great. I just found out about this, it's the Umbro Tee Shop where they offer very limited t-shirts, showcasing the world's love for football, contributed by top designers.

It's super limited with only 11 pieces available for their weekly designs released every Monday. It certainly helps to cheering up my start of the week for sure. They're priced at a cool £20, available online worldwide, and I am definitely gonna be looking out for one to grab. It's just so brilliant.

ENGLAND AWAY TAILORED BY UMBRO

The new Away jersey was unveiled today, adorned by David Haye in Germany ahead of his upcoming fight. Since Umbro was fully purchased by Nike, they've looked to combine the heritage where they started with needs of the modern game. Working with high-fashion designers, they are now 'tailoring' their shirts to a new level of quality and simplicity, bringing football shirts back to the fabric, back to the core.

The arrival of this new brand of jerseys, publicised most significantly through the England kit, has unfortunately been overshadowed by the national team's unconvincing major campaigns, namely at the World Cup in 2010. Despite attention focusing on the poor footballing performances, the new kits should be hugely welcomed and are something we should be proud of. The 11/12 Away jersey comes predominantly in deep blue, a refreshing change from our standard red choice of colour. It's tipped with a sky blue collar and features very little else, again emphasising the shape and detail of the actual shirt.

I've been really impressed with Umbro's releases and, for me, they are so headed the right direction, recognising exactly what footballers need and what the fans care about.

CHELSEA APPOINT ANDRE VILLAS-BOAS

Everything changed pretty rapidly from yesterday evening. English bookmakers had thought Turkey's national coach Guus Hiddink would be appointed sooner than later, but it's the 33-year-old Porto manager who has now been confirmed.

He's young, ambitious and already highly successful, coming straight off a treble-winning season in Portugal. Chelsea have had to pay €15 million to get him though, something our owner clearly isn't bothered by. And I think it's the perfect move. It feels very refreshing and exciting, and I don't think he's just another manager. He may be young and relatively inexperienced but he's learnt from Bobby Robson and Jose Mourinho to mention just a couple, and he's been at Chelsea before as chief scout so it's not so new for him. I just hope he's given time.

I'm looking forward to the style and flair that he will bring and I'm looking forward to a few trophies too. I'm happy.

BEFORE AND AFTER RONALDO

Brazilian superstar Ronaldo retired from football back in February this year, after having an incredible career, highlighted most significantly by his 3 World Cup winners' medals. He featured in what was his final match for Brazil yesterday against Romania, where he received a touching send-off by supporters all round.

Nike Football have now released this short video entitled "Before & After Ronaldo" and it's pretty sweet. Shows just how influential this man has been. Though I'm not sure about that ridiculous haircut.