That certainly seems to be the case at Chelsea where John Obi Mikel is still fuming about the red card handed out to John Terry on Tuesday.

Mikel was outraged at the behaviour of Alexis Sanchez after being kneed in the back by “JT” in an off-the-ball incident.

Mikel said: “There was a little touch and he rolled on the ground ten times. He definitely made the most of it.”

Coming from a team mate of Didier Drogba, you can only assume Mikel has incredibly strong cheek muscles to keep a straight face during that one.

But what a week of football. Chelsea – bar their captain – were heroic in the Nou Camp while Bayern deservedly won through against Real Madrid.

Barcelona looked tired and short of a “Plan B” after their short passing repeatedly hit a blue wall.

I was screaming at the screen for them to have a shot from outside the box but is seems that’s against the Catalan football religion.

Up until Tuesday I was sure Spain would win Euro 2012 – not now and I think Germany’s price will start to shorten.

I’ll have a look at the Euros next month but first let’s try and pick a winner this weekend.

My fantasy result would be a shock defeat for Southampton and a win for West Ham sending the Irons back to their rightful home in the top tier.

Won’t happen I’m afraid so we’ll have to trust Big Sam to guide us through the play offs.

Make it and he’ll be remembered as “just what we needed to get us out of the Championship”.

Lose and he’ll be “that northern (insert expletive) who ruined the academy of football”.

Elsewhere the big Manchester showdown looks very tight but I fancy City at 5/4 to keep their remarkable home run going

Mancini’s men are in fine form at the moment while Utd have wobbled a bit since opening a gap at the top of the table.

Norwich also appeal at 13/5 at home to Liverpool who are still being priced-up on history rather than current form.

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Running Total for all 2012 bets to a £10 stake:   +£150.00