Champions League: Analysing British Hopes of Winning

By Douglas Cary-Brown /

In some circles this year€™s UEFA Champions League trophy may already be heading back to the continent, most likely to Barcelona or Real Madrid, but there are 5 teams representing the British Isles who would beg to differ. It's the hardest tournament to win in football. Only the best can achieve glory and after only two matches this season's competition is shaping up to be even more contested. With the burgeoning wage bills of Eastern European clubs shifting the balance of power year by year the age old adage that there are no easy games in Europe couldn't be truer. Added to that, this year sees the reinstatement of the Old Lady (Juventus) to its rightful place and the legitimate threat of cosmopolitan Paris Saint German to contend with. Competition will be fierce and hearts will be broken, but as the last decade shows British clubs are no pushovers. Having won 3 times and been represented 6 times in the final there is a growing pedigree concerning British endeavors in Europe. So, here is an assessment of each clubs chances of being crowned Champions of Europe on May 23rd 2013... Feel free to comment below on British chances of retaining the cup this year and also let us know your thoughts on who poses the greatest threat, especially with Real Madrid and Barcelona in the mix as justified joint favourites. Are there any teams that are dark horses to go far this year?