Woodgate unimpressed by Premier League

Stoke City defender Jonathan Woodgate claims there has been a decline in the standard of the English Premier League.

Woodgate, 32, believes the fact his Stoke side are just four points behind Liverpool after 30 matches played, combined with Europa League exits for giants Manchester United and Manchester City, illustrates the league’s slump.

Stoke are 12th on the table, one of five teams within four points of European contenders Liverpool.

“I don’t think the standard is as good as it has been,” he told the Daily Star.

“You can tell that because teams aren’t too far behind Liverpool, and that’s no disrespect to Liverpool.

“It hasn’t been a great league this season, but I don’t know why. Athletic Bilbao dominated Manchester United over two games, which has never been seen.”

Woodgate did reserve praise for newly promoted Welsh club Swansea City.

Swansea occupy tenth place during what is their first season in the Premier League, and have attracted plaudits for their stylish football.

“Maybe the quality has just gone out of the league a bit, although Swansea have been unbelievable,” he said.

“I love the way they play football and how they pass the ball no matter where they are on the field.

“Brendan Rodgers is destined for a big job,” he added, referring to the Swansea manager.