Joe Cole, Nani and Man City

Liverpool's acquisition of Joe Cole has given a much-needed boost to the Premier League after England's dreadful World Cup shows.

I would never have thought Joe would have chosen Anfield, but it is good for Liverpool, good for football and good for Joe.

My sources had told me he was heading for Old Trafford...until United got wind of the wages he was expecting. An ill wind blows through M16 as the Glazers continue to keep a close hold on the purse strings...has-beens like Michael Owen and hopefuls like Smalling and Hernandez are ushered in with open arms (because they only cost half the price of bigger names, or half the wages of free agent Cole in Owen's case).

And United continue to miss out on the star signings that could transform them.

So there will be no Ozil to replace Scholesy, and no Joe Cole to add strength and a little more magic to the squad.

Cole will thrive at Anfield (although I am not so sure of this bullshit he is going on about re playing in the middle...is he strong enough physically for that?) - and his presence gives a lift to Woy Hodgson's hopes of keeping hold of Gerrard and Torres.

As for United...well there is still Rooney, and I am convinced that Nani will become a major star over the next 12-24 months. Did you see the pics of him training today in the Mail? God, he has doubled in size...not fat, but muscles...it can only be good news..I hardly recognised him...have alook here...http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1296172/Sir-Alex-Ferguson-rules-signings-Manchester-United.html

Man City? Again, very exciting for City and football. The Serb left back they are getting is class as is Silva...they just need a top striker now and they will be a force.