With some star signings made over the summer Real Betis were supposed to be the surprise package this season but they failed to shine from the start.
Only recently, with two straight wins in the league, have they looked anything bordering on impressive but there does finally seem to be some belief amongst the side. Speaking today defender Luciano Monzón, who was one of those expensive summer signings, said there is a change of spirit in the squad.
"The spirit has changed in the side and on Sunday [against Deportivo] we are going to try to win again," he started, "All the teams always try to do their best but we have the advantage of playing at home this week. The last thing that we were failing in was scoring and now we are doing that. To win would be a very good result for us apart from just getting confidence."
Monzón has only started one game for Betis in the league so far but he was a part of the team that beat Castellón in the Copa Del Rey to record the third straight win for Los Verdiblancos and he said they had to win the game.
"We had to win as it was an opportunity for us. We played very well in the midfield, I had a few complications because I had no-one to defend me but it was a result we had to get because we knew it was an important team."
"I want to remain here and I am very relaxed because I know that I am doing things very well. I am having a very good year but one must compete at all clubs and I believe I am playing a good role in the games I am involved in," he concluded.
Real answer coach’s challenge
Leo Franco: We Must Not Lose League Focus
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Mixed Messages On Sevilla Injury Front
Sevilla suffered their first defeat of the season last weekend as they lost to rivals Málaga but today they have received some good news as key players return from injury.
Enzo Maresca, Adriano and Aldo Duscher were all carrying knocks after the clash last weekend but today it has been revealed they will all be fit to play against Valladolid.
Along with that Diego Capel is recovering and training well, although he will still miss the match this weekend. Freddy Kanouté is working hard and he is said to be doing well but again will not be fit to play against Valladolid.
On the other hand Ivica Dragutinovic is still a way from playing again as is José Crespo. Javier Chevantón, who appeared for Sevilla against Málaga after a spell out with injury now has another knock and will probably play not a part in the game and Lautaro Acosta, who filled in during all the injuries to strikers, is now out himself.
Aquivaldo Mosquera is not training with the rest of the side yet either due an ankle injury and Jiménez will be hoping that these players can recover in time for the big matches starting on the 23rd November against Valencia.
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Tale of two halves for Hoops vs. Crew
Jiménez: Players Gave Their All
Enzo Maresca, Adriano and Aldo Duscher were all carrying knocks after the clash last weekend but today it has been revealed they will all be fit to play against Valladolid.
Along with that Diego Capel is recovering and training well, although he will still miss the match this weekend. Freddy Kanouté is working hard and he is said to be doing well but again will not be fit to play against Valladolid.
On the other hand Ivica Dragutinovic is still a way from playing again as is José Crespo. Javier Chevantón, who appeared for Sevilla against Málaga after a spell out with injury now has another knock and will probably play not a part in the game and Lautaro Acosta, who filled in during all the injuries to strikers, is now out himself.
Aquivaldo Mosquera is not training with the rest of the side yet either due an ankle injury and Jiménez will be hoping that these players can recover in time for the big matches starting on the 23rd November against Valencia.
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Tale of two halves for Hoops vs. Crew
Jiménez: Players Gave Their All
Beckham Is No Playboy - Capello
The former Rossoneri coach is keeping close tabs on the midfielder's progress and reports in both England and Italy suggested Capello had a hand in helping Becks choose the Italian side.
Capello is full of praise for Beckham and he insists the player is not one of those playboy type players.
"Beckham is a serious guy, he is no playboy," Capello told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
"He is a very serious lad and he has his head on his shoulders. He is not a playboy off the pitch which is what some people think.
"If Milan take him on then it will be great for them. Beckham is a professional and those who have certain immaginations of him off the pitch are wrong as none of it is true."
The San Siro-based club is currently locked in talks with the player's representatives who arrived in Milan today, and they are trying to find an agreement on the deal which will see the Englishman wear the red and black jersey.
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Capello is full of praise for Beckham and he insists the player is not one of those playboy type players.
"Beckham is a serious guy, he is no playboy," Capello told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
"He is a very serious lad and he has his head on his shoulders. He is not a playboy off the pitch which is what some people think.
"If Milan take him on then it will be great for them. Beckham is a professional and those who have certain immaginations of him off the pitch are wrong as none of it is true."
The San Siro-based club is currently locked in talks with the player's representatives who arrived in Milan today, and they are trying to find an agreement on the deal which will see the Englishman wear the red and black jersey.
Beckhams Squeezed By Housing Crunch And Thieves
Two Wizards chances doom Galaxy
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Mehmet Pleased With Betis Progress
Real Betis started this season in remarkably poor fashion but now they seem to be turning things around after two straight victories in the league.
The latest of those came at the weekend against lowly Osasuna and speaking about the victory, scorer of the first goal, Mehmet Aurelio, says that the team is always trying to win, and that is important.
"The truth is that the team has been playing well even though we did not win," he said, "The side has a lot of desire and always plays to win and this is very important."
Aurelio arrived at Betis this summer as one of the many names bought in to try and boost the fortunes of a side who had struggled in La Liga and he says he was made to feel very welcome at the club.
"I was surprised at how people treated me on my arrival. Everyone said I was a very good footballer and I liked that since it gave me confidence and I have to thank them for that."
"I am very happy in Seville and at the club, who have received me very well and given me everything I have needed to make me feel welcome," said the midfielder.
Against Osasuna at the weekend the Brazilian born Turk scored his first goal for his new club with a free-kick and he says that it was hard work against José Antonio Camacho's side.
"It was not easy to win against Osasuna because they had chances," he opined, "We are playing well though and playing good football, working with humility and doing the things that the fans enjoy. Scoring goals is in the mind of every player and I have coached many days to score a goal and I will continue to do so."
Spanish Debate: What’s Wrong With Betis?
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The latest of those came at the weekend against lowly Osasuna and speaking about the victory, scorer of the first goal, Mehmet Aurelio, says that the team is always trying to win, and that is important.
"The truth is that the team has been playing well even though we did not win," he said, "The side has a lot of desire and always plays to win and this is very important."
Aurelio arrived at Betis this summer as one of the many names bought in to try and boost the fortunes of a side who had struggled in La Liga and he says he was made to feel very welcome at the club.
"I was surprised at how people treated me on my arrival. Everyone said I was a very good footballer and I liked that since it gave me confidence and I have to thank them for that."
"I am very happy in Seville and at the club, who have received me very well and given me everything I have needed to make me feel welcome," said the midfielder.
Against Osasuna at the weekend the Brazilian born Turk scored his first goal for his new club with a free-kick and he says that it was hard work against José Antonio Camacho's side.
"It was not easy to win against Osasuna because they had chances," he opined, "We are playing well though and playing good football, working with humility and doing the things that the fans enjoy. Scoring goals is in the mind of every player and I have coached many days to score a goal and I will continue to do so."
Spanish Debate: What’s Wrong With Betis?
Serioux answering Hyndman’s call
Asenjo Will Not Be Leaving In January, Assures Agent
Heralded as the natural successor to Iker Casillas it is no surprise that Sergio Asenjo is a highly sought after player especially bearing in mind the club he is at now.
Valladolid might have bought him up through the ranks but it is no surprise that they will not be able to hold onto him forever although today his agent, Fernando Redondo, assured that he would not be leaving in January.
"There is not a possibility that he will leave in January," he said, "Firstly because legally he cannot go to another Spanish club then and secondly, we have not looked at the legislation in other countries, since we have not seen any opportunity."
Redondo also insisted that the future of the player would be on hold until Christmas as that is when he will sit down to discuss a new contract with Valladolid.
"One must be relaxed and not go crazy, nor should they give him everything or else it will be too much pressure. There is no movement being arranged at the moment, for now we should worry more about the team," he mused.
Agent Rubbishes Forlan To Spurs Rumours
RSL, Morales agree to extension
Home struggles hurt FCD in ‘08
Valladolid might have bought him up through the ranks but it is no surprise that they will not be able to hold onto him forever although today his agent, Fernando Redondo, assured that he would not be leaving in January.
"There is not a possibility that he will leave in January," he said, "Firstly because legally he cannot go to another Spanish club then and secondly, we have not looked at the legislation in other countries, since we have not seen any opportunity."
Redondo also insisted that the future of the player would be on hold until Christmas as that is when he will sit down to discuss a new contract with Valladolid.
"One must be relaxed and not go crazy, nor should they give him everything or else it will be too much pressure. There is no movement being arranged at the moment, for now we should worry more about the team," he mused.
Agent Rubbishes Forlan To Spurs Rumours
RSL, Morales agree to extension
Home struggles hurt FCD in ‘08
Maradona: I Laugh At My Critics
Maradona yesterday beat off competition from Carlos Bianchi, Miguel Angel Russo and Sergio Batista to be named the surprise successor of Alfio Basile as coach of Argentina.
Speaking from his home in Buenos Aires, El Pibe d'Oro has described his happiness at this appointment.
"This is something I have wanted for a long time," said Maradona. "I dreamt of it.
"Speaking yesterday with my daughter [Gianina], I told her that her [unborn] son and this [job] are the best gifts that I could ever receive in my life."
Sections of the Argentine press have massacred the decision to appoint Maradona, who has had next-to-no experience as a coach since retiring from playing, and has also had some well-documented personal troubles.
"I laugh at those who say that I have no experience," said Diego, who will turn 48 tomorrow.
"I have more than 20 years of experience with the national team. Football hasn't changed, everything is already invented. I don't think anyone can surprise me on the field.
"For those who say I have little experience, I say to them that I have [Carlos] Bilardo by my side, who has more experience than anyone else.
"The appointment could not arrive at a better time of my life. This is the right time, I'm more mature. I'm very calm, knowing that we have incredible players to make all the country smile when they see the national team playing.
"I'll take all the time to appoint my assistants."
Asked about his others commitments [like exhibition matches] he concluded: "I dedicate everything to the national team now."
Maradona famoulsy led Argentina almost single-handedly to World Cup glory in 1986 as a player. Twenty-four years later he will now try to do the same as a coach in South Africa.
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Speaking from his home in Buenos Aires, El Pibe d'Oro has described his happiness at this appointment.
"This is something I have wanted for a long time," said Maradona. "I dreamt of it.
"Speaking yesterday with my daughter [Gianina], I told her that her [unborn] son and this [job] are the best gifts that I could ever receive in my life."
Sections of the Argentine press have massacred the decision to appoint Maradona, who has had next-to-no experience as a coach since retiring from playing, and has also had some well-documented personal troubles.
"I laugh at those who say that I have no experience," said Diego, who will turn 48 tomorrow.
"I have more than 20 years of experience with the national team. Football hasn't changed, everything is already invented. I don't think anyone can surprise me on the field.
"For those who say I have little experience, I say to them that I have [Carlos] Bilardo by my side, who has more experience than anyone else.
"The appointment could not arrive at a better time of my life. This is the right time, I'm more mature. I'm very calm, knowing that we have incredible players to make all the country smile when they see the national team playing.
"I'll take all the time to appoint my assistants."
Asked about his others commitments [like exhibition matches] he concluded: "I dedicate everything to the national team now."
Maradona famoulsy led Argentina almost single-handedly to World Cup glory in 1986 as a player. Twenty-four years later he will now try to do the same as a coach in South Africa.
Calcio Comedy: Pele & Maradona In Birthday Punch-Up
Hoops’ Ricchetti primed for United attack
Noonan ready for former mates
Heinze Pans Fergie's 'Fiction'
Ferguson declared in a recent interview with GQ magazine that he was not surprised when Madrid moved for Ronaldo during the summer. The United manager stated that he believes the Spanish club's decision to buy Heinze the previous year was part of a long-term plan to lure the Portuguese winger to the Bernabeu.
Heinze and Ronaldo were close friends off the pitch until the former, having been displaced by Patrice Evra at left-back, departed in search of first-team football. After Liverpool failed in their bid to buy the Argentine defender from their arch-rivals, los Merengues swooped with an £8million offer as they sought to replace Roberto Carlos, who had joined Fenerbahce.
However, Heinze has been little more than a fringe player under Bernd Schuster as Marcelo, the Brazilian international, has been preferred on the left side of defence.
But the former Paris Saint-Germain player has taken great offence to Ferguson's insinuations, adding that no amount of cajolling on his part could convince Ronaldo to leave Old Trafford.
"This theory of Ferguson about me going to Real in order to persuade Cristiano to come the following summer is a work of absolute fiction," Heinze told the Daily Mail.
"I am a very good friend of Cristiano Ronaldo. This is true, but he always decides his own future. Cristiano is a clever person and he decides himself what is best for his own life.
"If he asks me a question about Real then, of course, I will answer, but I'm not a bad influence on him. Ferguson has spoken about me in the last months and I don’t understand this. I thought he had forgotten me.
"He’s the boss at United and any person who protests about anything is marginalised. This was my problem at times when I was there. Ferguson cannot stop my quotes because I’m not now at United."
Ronaldo's form and body language in recent weeks has led to speculation that he is already looking ahead to the summer and a fresh attempt to push through his dream move.
Heinze did not discourage such a notion; indeed, he suggested that the 23-year-old has only shown a fraction of his potential during his time in England.
"I'm actually convinced Cristiano would offer Madrid even bigger performances than he has at United," he said. "That is my opinion and it is normal that I have wanted him to come and play with us here in La Liga."
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Heinze and Ronaldo were close friends off the pitch until the former, having been displaced by Patrice Evra at left-back, departed in search of first-team football. After Liverpool failed in their bid to buy the Argentine defender from their arch-rivals, los Merengues swooped with an £8million offer as they sought to replace Roberto Carlos, who had joined Fenerbahce.
However, Heinze has been little more than a fringe player under Bernd Schuster as Marcelo, the Brazilian international, has been preferred on the left side of defence.
But the former Paris Saint-Germain player has taken great offence to Ferguson's insinuations, adding that no amount of cajolling on his part could convince Ronaldo to leave Old Trafford.
"This theory of Ferguson about me going to Real in order to persuade Cristiano to come the following summer is a work of absolute fiction," Heinze told the Daily Mail.
"I am a very good friend of Cristiano Ronaldo. This is true, but he always decides his own future. Cristiano is a clever person and he decides himself what is best for his own life.
"If he asks me a question about Real then, of course, I will answer, but I'm not a bad influence on him. Ferguson has spoken about me in the last months and I don’t understand this. I thought he had forgotten me.
"He’s the boss at United and any person who protests about anything is marginalised. This was my problem at times when I was there. Ferguson cannot stop my quotes because I’m not now at United."
Ronaldo's form and body language in recent weeks has led to speculation that he is already looking ahead to the summer and a fresh attempt to push through his dream move.
Heinze did not discourage such a notion; indeed, he suggested that the 23-year-old has only shown a fraction of his potential during his time in England.
"I'm actually convinced Cristiano would offer Madrid even bigger performances than he has at United," he said. "That is my opinion and it is normal that I have wanted him to come and play with us here in La Liga."
Goal.com Poll: The ‘Slavery’ Stupidity - Top Four
Unkind twist hits at RSL’s depth
Messi Reveals Golden Ball Picks
The Argentina hit-man has been outstanding for Barcelona and he is favourite to win the Golden Ball alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi has spoken of all things Calcio and he believes Italian striker Giuseppe Rossi has a great future ahead of him. The striker also reveals his sadness that Ronaldinho is not included in the list of nominees.
"I don't know what I would give for the Ballon d'Or as I would be the first Argentine to win it. [Alfredo] Di Stefano won it as a Spaniard and [Omar] Sivori did it as an Italian," Messi told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
"I am really sorry that Ronaldinho is not in the running for the award. I speak with him all the time and we text each other. He is happy at Milan and he is always getting better.
"Ronnie is a phenomenon even as a person. When Italians get to know him well you will say I was right.
"Who would I give the award to? I would give it to Aguero, but I think Torres and Xavi deserve it too.
"Cristiano Ronaldo, Rooney, Ibrahimovic and Kaka are all in the running. The only one missing is Iniesta and I don't understand why as he is great.
"Ibrahimovic? He is great. He scores incredible goals and he has improved so much since he has played for Inter as well as the arrival of Jose Mourinho. You can tell he is having fun.
"Rossi? I saw him against Atletico. He is a great goalscorer and he has a massive future ahead of him."
Messi then had a few words on Argentina and the decision to give Diego Maradona the coaches' job.
"I know Diego appreciates me and I have no trouble with what he said about me in the past," added Messi.
"There will be no problems with him on the bench. He is a great man and I admire him for what he gave Argentinian football."
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Messi Won’t Rise To Maradona Bait
Messi has spoken of all things Calcio and he believes Italian striker Giuseppe Rossi has a great future ahead of him. The striker also reveals his sadness that Ronaldinho is not included in the list of nominees.
"I don't know what I would give for the Ballon d'Or as I would be the first Argentine to win it. [Alfredo] Di Stefano won it as a Spaniard and [Omar] Sivori did it as an Italian," Messi told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
"I am really sorry that Ronaldinho is not in the running for the award. I speak with him all the time and we text each other. He is happy at Milan and he is always getting better.
"Ronnie is a phenomenon even as a person. When Italians get to know him well you will say I was right.
"Who would I give the award to? I would give it to Aguero, but I think Torres and Xavi deserve it too.
"Cristiano Ronaldo, Rooney, Ibrahimovic and Kaka are all in the running. The only one missing is Iniesta and I don't understand why as he is great.
"Ibrahimovic? He is great. He scores incredible goals and he has improved so much since he has played for Inter as well as the arrival of Jose Mourinho. You can tell he is having fun.
"Rossi? I saw him against Atletico. He is a great goalscorer and he has a massive future ahead of him."
Messi then had a few words on Argentina and the decision to give Diego Maradona the coaches' job.
"I know Diego appreciates me and I have no trouble with what he said about me in the past," added Messi.
"There will be no problems with him on the bench. He is a great man and I admire him for what he gave Argentinian football."
Ekpo, Nigeria win silver in Beijing
Rossi Keen To Make His Mark
Revitalized Cunningham aiding FCD
Messi Won’t Rise To Maradona Bait
Italy And France To Host 24 Team Euro 2016?
The UEFA chief believes it will be a good idea to stretch the number of countries taking place so that football at the highest levels will benefit the whole continent as well as give weaker teams a better chance of qualifying.
Platini has given his reasons behind the desision as he explains the way forward for international football in Europe.
"When, at the 2007 UEFA Congress in Dusseldorf, a few national associations raised the idea of expanding the European Football Championship final round from 16 to 24 participants, I was rather sceptical, I have to say. However, Euro 2008 convinced me that it was a good idea," Platini told UEFA's official website.
"Once again, the tournament illustrated the extraordinary passion generated by national team football and gave rise to such a fantastic party atmosphere that I felt it was only right for the championship to be extended to more countries – to let even more supporters take part and to spread the excitement and party atmosphere far and wide across the continent.
"I also felt that the emotion of the tournament should be heightened by adding a direct knockout round for the last 16 in the competition and by ensuring that all the group matches, or the vast majority of them at least, would be crucial, by allowing the best third-placed teams through to the next round."
La Repubblica claims Platini wants the 2016 tournament to be hosted in a joint venture between two great football nations in Italy and France.
Reports suggest the plan is to have five stadiums in each country for the group stages and final knock-out rounds with the final being held in Paris or Rome.
The only problem would be the stadiums in Italy. The country is trying hard to fix up the state of their football infrastructure and a number of top clubs have already begun to work on new stadia. Juventus just one of the few who are moving and shaking.
Italy lost their Euro 2012 bid as a result of the poor quality stadiums and the authorities will be keen to avoid this from happening again in future. Violence and hooliganism may also pose a problem.
Platini would be keen on the idea of having 2016 shared between his native France and Italy where he enjoyed some great moments as a player.
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Platini has given his reasons behind the desision as he explains the way forward for international football in Europe.
"When, at the 2007 UEFA Congress in Dusseldorf, a few national associations raised the idea of expanding the European Football Championship final round from 16 to 24 participants, I was rather sceptical, I have to say. However, Euro 2008 convinced me that it was a good idea," Platini told UEFA's official website.
"Once again, the tournament illustrated the extraordinary passion generated by national team football and gave rise to such a fantastic party atmosphere that I felt it was only right for the championship to be extended to more countries – to let even more supporters take part and to spread the excitement and party atmosphere far and wide across the continent.
"I also felt that the emotion of the tournament should be heightened by adding a direct knockout round for the last 16 in the competition and by ensuring that all the group matches, or the vast majority of them at least, would be crucial, by allowing the best third-placed teams through to the next round."
La Repubblica claims Platini wants the 2016 tournament to be hosted in a joint venture between two great football nations in Italy and France.
Reports suggest the plan is to have five stadiums in each country for the group stages and final knock-out rounds with the final being held in Paris or Rome.
The only problem would be the stadiums in Italy. The country is trying hard to fix up the state of their football infrastructure and a number of top clubs have already begun to work on new stadia. Juventus just one of the few who are moving and shaking.
Italy lost their Euro 2012 bid as a result of the poor quality stadiums and the authorities will be keen to avoid this from happening again in future. Violence and hooliganism may also pose a problem.
Platini would be keen on the idea of having 2016 shared between his native France and Italy where he enjoyed some great moments as a player.
Ekpo draws pride from Olympic success
Weary Revs struggle to keep pace
Cerezo: No Racism Tonight - Just Football
Monday, October 27, 2008
I Was Rested To Avoid Injury - Agüero
Atlético Madrid and Sergio Agüero started the season in impressive form but recently both of them have tailed off a little, the latter more understandably as he has suffered from playing too many games when not fully fit.
He finally got a chance to rest against Villarreal last night though and he says he spoke with the manager and they agreed it was the best thing to do.
"I talked with the manager during the week and he said he was going to give me a little rest against Liverpool and Villarreal," he explained, "It was good for me. I always want to play but he said I should break so I do not miss a month or two. Now I wait for next Saturday and hope to be well."
"The reason was I have played many games and if I played one or two more I could have injured myself. I spoke with the coach, decided to be on the bench and to train well this week and be ready for next weekend," said the Argentine.
Agüero watched from the sidelines as his side staged a remarkable comeback to draw 4-4 with Villarreal after been 4-2 down and he said that whilst the aim was to win it was important they didn't lose.
"A point was taken and that is important. We went with the objective to win but we were not able. Now more than ever we need to win our next two games (against Mallorca and Osasuna) to go up the table," he opined.
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Rested Revs shoot for clean sheet
He finally got a chance to rest against Villarreal last night though and he says he spoke with the manager and they agreed it was the best thing to do.
"I talked with the manager during the week and he said he was going to give me a little rest against Liverpool and Villarreal," he explained, "It was good for me. I always want to play but he said I should break so I do not miss a month or two. Now I wait for next Saturday and hope to be well."
"The reason was I have played many games and if I played one or two more I could have injured myself. I spoke with the coach, decided to be on the bench and to train well this week and be ready for next weekend," said the Argentine.
Agüero watched from the sidelines as his side staged a remarkable comeback to draw 4-4 with Villarreal after been 4-2 down and he said that whilst the aim was to win it was important they didn't lose.
"A point was taken and that is important. We went with the objective to win but we were not able. Now more than ever we need to win our next two games (against Mallorca and Osasuna) to go up the table," he opined.
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Rested Revs shoot for clean sheet
Nacho Savouring The Málaga Moment
Málaga faced arguably the toughest fixture of the weekend as they travelled to the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán to take on undefeated Sevilla but the island side stunned their hosts to record their fourth successive win in La Liga.
The win came courtesy of a strike from Adrián and speaking today Los Boquerones defender Nacho says he is very happy with the win but recognises there is still a long way to go.
"One must enjoy these moments, we have won four games in a row, but the league is very long and bad times will occur. It is clear though that we are in a sweet moment, yesterday we won in Seville, something we were talking about all week and we did it," he exclaimed.
Through the happiness though the defender also emphasised the need to continue this run and said whilst before 'there was pessimism now there is a good confident feeling and we must take advantage of that.'
Goalscorer Adrián on the other hand is remaining a lot calmer and does not want to get carried away, despite the magnitude of their performance at the weekend.
"We are very happy with the victory against a difficult opponent," he said, "The team played well up until the end and we are focused on going from game to game and taking as many points as we can, but the important thing is to continue playing well."
"We should be calm and go forward with humility. We have to think about Mallorca, as the Copa Del Rey is a good and important competition, before we think about Barcelona," he declared.
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Ex-Madrid President Arrested
The win came courtesy of a strike from Adrián and speaking today Los Boquerones defender Nacho says he is very happy with the win but recognises there is still a long way to go.
"One must enjoy these moments, we have won four games in a row, but the league is very long and bad times will occur. It is clear though that we are in a sweet moment, yesterday we won in Seville, something we were talking about all week and we did it," he exclaimed.
Through the happiness though the defender also emphasised the need to continue this run and said whilst before 'there was pessimism now there is a good confident feeling and we must take advantage of that.'
Goalscorer Adrián on the other hand is remaining a lot calmer and does not want to get carried away, despite the magnitude of their performance at the weekend.
"We are very happy with the victory against a difficult opponent," he said, "The team played well up until the end and we are focused on going from game to game and taking as many points as we can, but the important thing is to continue playing well."
"We should be calm and go forward with humility. We have to think about Mallorca, as the Copa Del Rey is a good and important competition, before we think about Barcelona," he declared.
Cortés: If Kun Plays Badly, I Can Mark Him!
Hoops aim to protect turf vs. United
Improved Crew eye benchmark
Ex-Madrid President Arrested
Sneijder Proud Of Little Rodney
The Netherlands are famous for producing some of the brightest pairs of brothers who are extremely talented at football; the Koemans, De Boers, the Kerkhofs, and most recently the Sneijders.
The trio of brothers, Jeffery, Wesley, and Rodney, have all passed through the youth ranks at Ajax, and the middle child is proud of this achievement. “My parents are very thrilled at having three kids who played football at Ajax, as am I,” began the Dutchman.
“Life in Madrid is similar to that of Amsterdam, in the sense that they are booth breeding grounds for youth products and live a culture of football.”
Although all three play in the same position, Sneijder spoke about their differences in style. “Jeffery is the most defensive, and he can use both legs,” he explained.
“Rodney, on the other hand, has the best technique of us and is the future; he always thought about football during his school days.”
The oldest of the brothers, Jeffery, had to hang his boots early in his career due to injury, leaving Sneijder with a sour taste in his mouth, “It’s an unfortunate event but we must accept it,” he sighed. The two brothers faced each other some years ago, and Sneijder recalled the memory with a smile on his face, “We thrashed them bad!” he said.
Then, the midfield maestro was asked about his little brother Rodney, and Sneijder was full of pride and admiration toward the young sensation. “Rodney will be the best of the three,” he boomed.
“He is very talented but needs to hold his head a little higher, he’s about to enter into the most important stage of his career.”
Sneijder would love to play alongside his brother in the future sometime.
“A dream come true,” he concluded.
Sneijder Ready For Return
Bhoys Playing Like Barça - Crosas
Kljestan logging frequent flyer miles
The trio of brothers, Jeffery, Wesley, and Rodney, have all passed through the youth ranks at Ajax, and the middle child is proud of this achievement. “My parents are very thrilled at having three kids who played football at Ajax, as am I,” began the Dutchman.
“Life in Madrid is similar to that of Amsterdam, in the sense that they are booth breeding grounds for youth products and live a culture of football.”
Although all three play in the same position, Sneijder spoke about their differences in style. “Jeffery is the most defensive, and he can use both legs,” he explained.
“Rodney, on the other hand, has the best technique of us and is the future; he always thought about football during his school days.”
The oldest of the brothers, Jeffery, had to hang his boots early in his career due to injury, leaving Sneijder with a sour taste in his mouth, “It’s an unfortunate event but we must accept it,” he sighed. The two brothers faced each other some years ago, and Sneijder recalled the memory with a smile on his face, “We thrashed them bad!” he said.
Then, the midfield maestro was asked about his little brother Rodney, and Sneijder was full of pride and admiration toward the young sensation. “Rodney will be the best of the three,” he boomed.
“He is very talented but needs to hold his head a little higher, he’s about to enter into the most important stage of his career.”
Sneijder would love to play alongside his brother in the future sometime.
“A dream come true,” he concluded.
Sneijder Ready For Return
Bhoys Playing Like Barça - Crosas
Kljestan logging frequent flyer miles
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Barca To Intercede for Jailed Morrocan
The Catalan club are gathering information on the case, where it is alleged that a young Moroccan boy was asked to write the patriotic slogan 'God, homeland and King' on his classroom blackboard, and instead substituted King Mohommed VI for his favourite Spanish side.
Yassine Belassal was reported to the police by his school principal for his supposed 'crime' and now faces a one-and-a-half year jail sentence as a result of his insubordination.
The case has been condemned worldwide by various human rights organisations who are seeking to relieve young Belassal from his wholly unfair punishment. Barcelona have became involved due to the boy using the clubs name, and they have liased with the Moroccan media in order to monitor the progress of the case and hopefully increase pressure on the Moroccan government to arrange Belassal's release.
Magda Oranich, the newly-appointed trustee of Barcelona, has been ordered to collect information and raise the issue with the Moroccan embassies in both Madrid and Barcelona.
It is unclear to what extent the club will strive to be directly involved in campaigning to release Belassal, or indeed how successful pleas in his defence will be.
Mathis makes return to Real Salt Lake
Barça And Valencia Fighting For Keirrison?
Cuba hosts U.S. in World Cup match
Yassine Belassal was reported to the police by his school principal for his supposed 'crime' and now faces a one-and-a-half year jail sentence as a result of his insubordination.
The case has been condemned worldwide by various human rights organisations who are seeking to relieve young Belassal from his wholly unfair punishment. Barcelona have became involved due to the boy using the clubs name, and they have liased with the Moroccan media in order to monitor the progress of the case and hopefully increase pressure on the Moroccan government to arrange Belassal's release.
Magda Oranich, the newly-appointed trustee of Barcelona, has been ordered to collect information and raise the issue with the Moroccan embassies in both Madrid and Barcelona.
It is unclear to what extent the club will strive to be directly involved in campaigning to release Belassal, or indeed how successful pleas in his defence will be.
Mathis makes return to Real Salt Lake
Barça And Valencia Fighting For Keirrison?
Cuba hosts U.S. in World Cup match
Kresic: We Saw The Good And The Bad Of Football
Numancia managed their first victory since beating Barcelona on the opening day of the season, but they were made to fight all the way to the end by Racing.
Coach Sergio Kresic praised the reselience of his players after Cisma had popped up 6 minutes into injury time to turn one point into an unlikely three.
Numancia had led going into the injury time but Santander forward Tchite scored from the spot on ninety minutes to give Racing what looked like a 1-1 draw. Then Cisma scored to take the pressure off relieved manager Kresic.
The Croatian told journalists after the match, " I have to commend the attitude and commitment of my players, their conduct was exemplary. We almost lost our victory, where we saw the good and the bad of our team, but we managed to take advantage of the opportunities we had."
However the coach was quick to mention that neither side had brought much quality to the match, saying that 'neither team had really given everything'.
Numancia's victory moves them out of the drop zone while Racing, despite changing coach, continue to slide down the table despite bringing in Juan Ramon Lopez Muniz to steady the ship.
Dynamo pleased with dominant show
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
Coach Sergio Kresic praised the reselience of his players after Cisma had popped up 6 minutes into injury time to turn one point into an unlikely three.
Numancia had led going into the injury time but Santander forward Tchite scored from the spot on ninety minutes to give Racing what looked like a 1-1 draw. Then Cisma scored to take the pressure off relieved manager Kresic.
The Croatian told journalists after the match, " I have to commend the attitude and commitment of my players, their conduct was exemplary. We almost lost our victory, where we saw the good and the bad of our team, but we managed to take advantage of the opportunities we had."
However the coach was quick to mention that neither side had brought much quality to the match, saying that 'neither team had really given everything'.
Numancia's victory moves them out of the drop zone while Racing, despite changing coach, continue to slide down the table despite bringing in Juan Ramon Lopez Muniz to steady the ship.
Dynamo pleased with dominant show
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
Player Ratings: Villarreal 4-4 Atlético de Madrid
VILLARREAL
Diego López 6 - Conceded two early goal but could not really be blamed for either and then only had one other shot through the game to cope with.
Javi Venta 5.5 - Any defence that concedes four has to be criticised and the lack of concentration at the back for Villarreal was to blame.
Godín 5 - Did not rise to meet the free-kick that earned Atlético a point after seeing his focus lapse early on when Atleti netted twice too.
Gonzalo 5.5 - Scored at one end and let his concentration slip at the other as Atlético came back to cap an incredible game.
Capdevila 6 - Did not move forward as much as he can do, but was not responsible for the goals that the team conceded as they came down the other side.
Senna 7 - A controlling influence in midfield who scored a slightly fortuitous goal, but one that he deserved for a good display.
Bruno 6 - Worked tirelessly in midfield and is an unsung influence in a Villarreal that enjoy playing attractive passing football.
Cazorla 7 - Did well to open up the Atleti defence for the fourth goal, but struggled to beat Pernía all night and was eventually replaced.
Pirès 8.5 - Instrumental in everything that Villarreal did, even when Atlético had all their players and received a standing ovation when being substituted,
Llorente 6.5 - Scored a good goal, but did not have the most effective game as his lack of movement meant that all the crosses were easily cleared.
Rossi 7.5 - Lively throughout and worked back well to help his side as well as taking his goal well in teh second half to put the result beyond doubt.
Double tops Cunningham’s elation
Cerezo Assures Aguirre Will Stay
Casillas Wary Of Wounded Atlético
Diego López 6 - Conceded two early goal but could not really be blamed for either and then only had one other shot through the game to cope with.
Javi Venta 5.5 - Any defence that concedes four has to be criticised and the lack of concentration at the back for Villarreal was to blame.
Godín 5 - Did not rise to meet the free-kick that earned Atlético a point after seeing his focus lapse early on when Atleti netted twice too.
Gonzalo 5.5 - Scored at one end and let his concentration slip at the other as Atlético came back to cap an incredible game.
Capdevila 6 - Did not move forward as much as he can do, but was not responsible for the goals that the team conceded as they came down the other side.
Senna 7 - A controlling influence in midfield who scored a slightly fortuitous goal, but one that he deserved for a good display.
Bruno 6 - Worked tirelessly in midfield and is an unsung influence in a Villarreal that enjoy playing attractive passing football.
Cazorla 7 - Did well to open up the Atleti defence for the fourth goal, but struggled to beat Pernía all night and was eventually replaced.
Pirès 8.5 - Instrumental in everything that Villarreal did, even when Atlético had all their players and received a standing ovation when being substituted,
Llorente 6.5 - Scored a good goal, but did not have the most effective game as his lack of movement meant that all the crosses were easily cleared.
Rossi 7.5 - Lively throughout and worked back well to help his side as well as taking his goal well in teh second half to put the result beyond doubt.
Double tops Cunningham’s elation
Cerezo Assures Aguirre Will Stay
Casillas Wary Of Wounded Atlético
Emery Satisfied With Draw
Valencia were heavy favourites to beat Recreativo this weekend but they made hard work of their opponents and were fortunate to escape with a draw thanks to a David Villa strike.
Los Che went behind just after half-time and speaking about the result manager Unai Emery says he is not too disappointed with just the point.
"Every team plays to their strengths and Recreativo have done just that," he started, "We were able to equalise and then had chances to win but I am satisfied with the team."
"The result can maybe considered unjust because of the possession and the chances but they have taken advantage of their strengths and we have not been too wise," mused the manager.
Valencia were probably the better side for most of the match and had plenty of chances to score but were slightly wasteful in front of goal. Speaking about the chances Emery was not too frustrated but focused on the plus points of the performance.
"It is necessary to create chances and we have done that today and stopped the counter-attacks of Recreativo that caused the goal. We were closer to the win but also we could have lost it at 1-0," he concluded.
Goalscorer David Villa agreed with his manager and said afterwards, "A draw was not really a bad result for us. They are a good team who caused us lots of problems."
Emery: Nothing Is Easy In This League
Chivas USA, Quakes settle for draw
Los Che went behind just after half-time and speaking about the result manager Unai Emery says he is not too disappointed with just the point.
"Every team plays to their strengths and Recreativo have done just that," he started, "We were able to equalise and then had chances to win but I am satisfied with the team."
"The result can maybe considered unjust because of the possession and the chances but they have taken advantage of their strengths and we have not been too wise," mused the manager.
Valencia were probably the better side for most of the match and had plenty of chances to score but were slightly wasteful in front of goal. Speaking about the chances Emery was not too frustrated but focused on the plus points of the performance.
"It is necessary to create chances and we have done that today and stopped the counter-attacks of Recreativo that caused the goal. We were closer to the win but also we could have lost it at 1-0," he concluded.
Goalscorer David Villa agreed with his manager and said afterwards, "A draw was not really a bad result for us. They are a good team who caused us lots of problems."
Emery: Nothing Is Easy In This League
Chivas USA, Quakes settle for draw
Jiménez: Players Gave Their All
Sevilla have been one of the success stories of the season so far but against Málaga today they came up against a side in form and hungry for a result.
The Andalucian derby was decided by one goal from Adrián early on but despite losing Sevilla manager Manolo Jiménez wasn't too annoyed after the match.
"It was a bad result but one must respect the attitude and the fact that today it just didn't happen," he said, "Everyone that played in the week gave their all and we saw the tiredness. The players gave their all."
"Málaga have played a very ugly and very tactical game to beat us and that has cost us. In the end we have tried to do more than play it in the air. I hope cycles can be repeated like the one we have been on," he mused.
Sevilla have been hit hard by injury this season and even though Luis Fabiano and Javier Chevantón returned today they could not find a break through. The manager did not want to blame injuries for the loss though.
"To complain about injuries is of no use at all. We will use the first team, the B-side and look ahead. What has happened is that there have been players who have played many minutes and we have lacked a spark," he concluded.
Hoops frustrated with result
Adriano: Sevilla Still A Force
The Andalucian derby was decided by one goal from Adrián early on but despite losing Sevilla manager Manolo Jiménez wasn't too annoyed after the match.
"It was a bad result but one must respect the attitude and the fact that today it just didn't happen," he said, "Everyone that played in the week gave their all and we saw the tiredness. The players gave their all."
"Málaga have played a very ugly and very tactical game to beat us and that has cost us. In the end we have tried to do more than play it in the air. I hope cycles can be repeated like the one we have been on," he mused.
Sevilla have been hit hard by injury this season and even though Luis Fabiano and Javier Chevantón returned today they could not find a break through. The manager did not want to blame injuries for the loss though.
"To complain about injuries is of no use at all. We will use the first team, the B-side and look ahead. What has happened is that there have been players who have played many minutes and we have lacked a spark," he concluded.
Hoops frustrated with result
Adriano: Sevilla Still A Force
Agüero: I Still Have Much To Learn
It's probably no coincidence that Atlético Madrid started this season in superb form when Sergio Agüero was in superb form and they seem to have faltered just as the Argentine is beginning to tire.
Nevertheless, there is little doubt that he is worthy of all the praise he has got and as he prepares to receive the EFE Trophy for the best Latin American player in Spain tomorrow he says he is very pleased with the way things are going.
"It gives me great happiness to receive this award," he declared, "[Lionel] Messi and other very important players to me have won it and I am very pleased that I have now been chosen."
"The U-20 World Cup went very well, we won the title and then I started well in the league and won the Olympic gold with Argentina. I am very pleased with the way things are going and I hope to continue in the same way. I am happy but I am still a boy and have many things to learn," he mused.
The young Argentine says that he will 'try to keep improving' and with Atlético Madrid now in the Champions League there is little doubt he has good opposition to try himself out against. He says that he is hoping that his form and his clubs will continue in both Europe and in Spain too.
"I hope that this season we do well in both the league and in Europe. I confront this season with calmness and I hope that everything works out well," he concluded.
Agüero: I Was Inspired
Revitalized Cunningham aiding FCD
Hoops’ Ricchetti primed for United attack
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Nevertheless, there is little doubt that he is worthy of all the praise he has got and as he prepares to receive the EFE Trophy for the best Latin American player in Spain tomorrow he says he is very pleased with the way things are going.
"It gives me great happiness to receive this award," he declared, "[Lionel] Messi and other very important players to me have won it and I am very pleased that I have now been chosen."
"The U-20 World Cup went very well, we won the title and then I started well in the league and won the Olympic gold with Argentina. I am very pleased with the way things are going and I hope to continue in the same way. I am happy but I am still a boy and have many things to learn," he mused.
The young Argentine says that he will 'try to keep improving' and with Atlético Madrid now in the Champions League there is little doubt he has good opposition to try himself out against. He says that he is hoping that his form and his clubs will continue in both Europe and in Spain too.
"I hope that this season we do well in both the league and in Europe. I confront this season with calmness and I hope that everything works out well," he concluded.
Agüero: I Was Inspired
Revitalized Cunningham aiding FCD
Hoops’ Ricchetti primed for United attack
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Cerezo Assures Aguirre Will Stay
Atlético Madrid might have started this season in impressive style but following three consecutive defeats in the league they now find themselves in mid-table and things don't get any easier this weekend as they travel to El Madrigal.
Villarreal are undefeated in the league so far and whilst rumours have started this week that manager Javier Aguirre could lose his job if Atlético lose again, the president of the club, Enrique Cerezo, assured that no matter what the outcome he will be staying.
"No matter what happens against Villarreal, Javier Aguirre will continue to be the coach of Atlético Madrid."
"We want to remain amongst the top three in the the league and losing against Villarreal would be a big blow because we would fall even further behind the group ahead. However, we are only on match eight and there are still many games to play."
"I believe that if we play well against Villarreal we will get the three points that have escaped us recently and that will help us to be more relaxed with our league position," declared the president.
Indeed, were Atlético to lose this match they could potentially be thirteen points off the league leaders Valencia and even at this stage of the season that is a massive mountain to climb. Cerezo is under no illusions that this match, just like the Liverpool match, is a big one which they need to win.
"It is always a vital game, since the start of the season, because it is Villarreal," he opined, "I expect that the change the team showed against Liverpool will continue this weekend. I hope the side play a good game and win."
"In the end we obtained a good result to put us further towards qualifying for the quarter-finals of the Champions League and now we must focus on the league, first against Villarreal and then Mallorca," concluded Cerezo.
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Reunion on tap in San Jose as Dynamo visit
Cerezo: No Racism Tonight - Just Football
Villarreal are undefeated in the league so far and whilst rumours have started this week that manager Javier Aguirre could lose his job if Atlético lose again, the president of the club, Enrique Cerezo, assured that no matter what the outcome he will be staying.
"No matter what happens against Villarreal, Javier Aguirre will continue to be the coach of Atlético Madrid."
"We want to remain amongst the top three in the the league and losing against Villarreal would be a big blow because we would fall even further behind the group ahead. However, we are only on match eight and there are still many games to play."
"I believe that if we play well against Villarreal we will get the three points that have escaped us recently and that will help us to be more relaxed with our league position," declared the president.
Indeed, were Atlético to lose this match they could potentially be thirteen points off the league leaders Valencia and even at this stage of the season that is a massive mountain to climb. Cerezo is under no illusions that this match, just like the Liverpool match, is a big one which they need to win.
"It is always a vital game, since the start of the season, because it is Villarreal," he opined, "I expect that the change the team showed against Liverpool will continue this weekend. I hope the side play a good game and win."
"In the end we obtained a good result to put us further towards qualifying for the quarter-finals of the Champions League and now we must focus on the league, first against Villarreal and then Mallorca," concluded Cerezo.
Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Reunion on tap in San Jose as Dynamo visit
Cerezo: No Racism Tonight - Just Football
Calcio Comedy: Pele & Maradona In Birthday Punch-Up
Pele has had a long and bitter feud with Argentine hero Maradona, who has always accused the Brazilian of being part of the ‘devil’ family of FIFA.
The dispute hit a real low in 2000 when FIFA conducted an internet fan poll to elect the ‘Player of the Century’. Maradona won the poll but then FIFA altered the way in which the winner was chosen, and opted to give the prize to Pele. Maradona protested and eventually both players were presented with an award, with El Pibe d’Oro claiming that his rival’s trophy was worthless.
Last night the most explosive scene in this volatile soap-opera was played out as the pair actively engaged in a fully blown fist-fight during Pele’s 68th birthday celebrations.
Inter To Use Maradona As Bait For Aguero - Report
Shorthanded Galaxy lack scoring punch
The dispute hit a real low in 2000 when FIFA conducted an internet fan poll to elect the ‘Player of the Century’. Maradona won the poll but then FIFA altered the way in which the winner was chosen, and opted to give the prize to Pele. Maradona protested and eventually both players were presented with an award, with El Pibe d’Oro claiming that his rival’s trophy was worthless.
Last night the most explosive scene in this volatile soap-opera was played out as the pair actively engaged in a fully blown fist-fight during Pele’s 68th birthday celebrations.
Inter To Use Maradona As Bait For Aguero - Report
Shorthanded Galaxy lack scoring punch
Emery: Nothing Is Easy In This League
Valencia might be top of the league and in superb form but it has not gone unnoticed that Los Che are yet to beat a top side and again this weekend they find themselves pitted against a team lower down the table.
Speaking today though manager Unai Emery has said that nothing is easy and that he hopes his side can maintain their good start.
"Of course nothing is easy," he declared, "It is extremely difficult to win in Valladolid, Málaga or Almería, where we drew. I hope we can continue to be at the top but it will be a difficult game against Recreativo and we will need to play well to win."
If Valencia can manage to win again this weekend it will be the best ever start they have made to a season and whilst this would be some feat Emery is not too concerned by it.
"I only think about what is under my responsibility. It sounds very nice and perhaps I will savour it in the future but for now I have other things to think about."
"I carry a high level of responsibility and that doesn't change because we are first. We must be prepared for every game and to give maximum importance to each point; each game is a test which we have to pass," opined the manager.
Emery confirmed that he does not plan in blocks and stages but rather one game at a time because he likes things to be immediate and football 'demands that decisions should be made straight away.'
The manager also spoke about the upcoming transfer window and remained rather coy, saying that for the moment he only sees himself working with this group in which he has 'full confidence.'
Emery: We Must Not Relax
United host FCD side in transition
Speaking today though manager Unai Emery has said that nothing is easy and that he hopes his side can maintain their good start.
"Of course nothing is easy," he declared, "It is extremely difficult to win in Valladolid, Málaga or Almería, where we drew. I hope we can continue to be at the top but it will be a difficult game against Recreativo and we will need to play well to win."
If Valencia can manage to win again this weekend it will be the best ever start they have made to a season and whilst this would be some feat Emery is not too concerned by it.
"I only think about what is under my responsibility. It sounds very nice and perhaps I will savour it in the future but for now I have other things to think about."
"I carry a high level of responsibility and that doesn't change because we are first. We must be prepared for every game and to give maximum importance to each point; each game is a test which we have to pass," opined the manager.
Emery confirmed that he does not plan in blocks and stages but rather one game at a time because he likes things to be immediate and football 'demands that decisions should be made straight away.'
The manager also spoke about the upcoming transfer window and remained rather coy, saying that for the moment he only sees himself working with this group in which he has 'full confidence.'
Emery: We Must Not Relax
United host FCD side in transition
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Goal.com Champions League Manager: Matchday Three's Winning Formation
The main thing to remember about Goal.com's Fantasy League Manager is that prizes are awarded for each round of play, and not just at the end. With that in mind, if you think you have what it takes to put together the best squad for Matchday 4 of the Champions League,sign up nowand see if you can emulate Gigigroparu's feat!
Gigigroparu's team has not only won him/her a fantastic BlackBerry prize, but it's also put them high in the runnings for the grand final award of a MacBook Pro when the competition ends next year.
It seems as though the would-be manager from Romania made some inspired choices: having Villarreal's Llorente as captain gave him a colossal, colossal hat-trick bonus, while having John Terry at the back made a world of difference.
Here was his team, which finished one point clear of the nearest competitor this week:
Player
Team
Points
Bohush
Dynamo Kiev
8
Goain
Steaua Bucharest
2
Terry
Chelsea
12
Tony
CFR Cluj
1
Gourcuff
Bordeaux
5
Ribéry
Bayern Munich
6
Diego
Werder Bremen
1
Gerrard
Liverpool
4
Panagi
Anorthosis
0
Llorente (Captain)
Villarreal
32
Arshavin
Zenit St. Petersburg
2
TOTAL
73
And here is the top nine for this week. As well as Dongahwan, other prize winners will pick up a jersey for their favourite club (3x) or a cap (5x). (Those with equal weekly points are differentiated by overall ranking.)
Name
Country
PointsThis WEEK
gigigroparuRomania
73
supereebism
Iran
72
kruska
Japan
71
soccer_nerd
Australia
71
ukibiris
Puerto Rico
71
F.C.DODKO
South Korea
70
saras813
Spain
69
frattonender
United Kingdom
68
Exclusivz
Netherlands
68
And here is the top leaderboard overall, 1 through 11 (where 11 is last matchday's winner, dongahwah):
Name
Country
PointsOVERALL
mcostar
United Kingdom
128
zsiroskenyer
Hungary
127
wroomer
Finland
126
Dudaa
Bosnia-Herzegovina
125
supereebism
Iran
124
tristan9
Spain
123
saras813
Spain
123
palerma
Italy
122
sandy69
India
122
purpledome
Nigeria
121
dongahwah
Australia
121
Just to re-iterate, each of these prizes will be awarded again for every single round of play in Goal.com Champions League Manager 2008-09 as determined by our calendar, with the overall winner also getting a MacBook Pro! In other words, the sooner you sign up the more chance you have of winning the biggest prize, but you can join the fray anytime to be in with a chance of winning a fantastic BlackBerry phone! Could you be the next Gigigroparu? Sign up now and find out!
Goal.com Champions League Manager: Matchday Two’s Winning Formation
Schelotto continues torrid play in win over Revs
Chivas encouraged by improved effort
Gigigroparu's team has not only won him/her a fantastic BlackBerry prize, but it's also put them high in the runnings for the grand final award of a MacBook Pro when the competition ends next year.
It seems as though the would-be manager from Romania made some inspired choices: having Villarreal's Llorente as captain gave him a colossal, colossal hat-trick bonus, while having John Terry at the back made a world of difference.
Here was his team, which finished one point clear of the nearest competitor this week:
Player
Team
Points
Bohush
Dynamo Kiev
8
Goain
Steaua Bucharest
2
Terry
Chelsea
12
Tony
CFR Cluj
1
Gourcuff
Bordeaux
5
Ribéry
Bayern Munich
6
Diego
Werder Bremen
1
Gerrard
Liverpool
4
Panagi
Anorthosis
0
Llorente (Captain)
Villarreal
32
Arshavin
Zenit St. Petersburg
2
TOTAL
73
And here is the top nine for this week. As well as Dongahwan, other prize winners will pick up a jersey for their favourite club (3x) or a cap (5x). (Those with equal weekly points are differentiated by overall ranking.)
Name
Country
PointsThis WEEK
gigigroparuRomania
73
supereebism
Iran
72
kruska
Japan
71
soccer_nerd
Australia
71
ukibiris
Puerto Rico
71
F.C.DODKO
South Korea
70
saras813
Spain
69
frattonender
United Kingdom
68
Exclusivz
Netherlands
68
And here is the top leaderboard overall, 1 through 11 (where 11 is last matchday's winner, dongahwah):
Name
Country
PointsOVERALL
mcostar
United Kingdom
128
zsiroskenyer
Hungary
127
wroomer
Finland
126
Dudaa
Bosnia-Herzegovina
125
supereebism
Iran
124
tristan9
Spain
123
saras813
Spain
123
palerma
Italy
122
sandy69
India
122
purpledome
Nigeria
121
dongahwah
Australia
121
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Goal.com Champions League Manager: Matchday Two’s Winning Formation
Schelotto continues torrid play in win over Revs
Chivas encouraged by improved effort
Patient Pablo Waiting For Opportunities
Valencia have been in impressive form so far this season but for Pablo Hernández minutes have been hard to come by with the squad performing so well.
The midfielder has been on loan for the last two seasons at Getafe and he says that he would love to be able to play like he did there but that he is willing to wait for opportunities.
"It is clear that I want to play all games like I did last season with Getafe and whilst I am not getting as many minutes I know the opportunity will arrive."
"I came here knowing that it was going to be difficult and after seven league games it is hard to play more," he said.
Indeed, the midfielder has not done too bad this season so far, bearing in mind he is still just 23 years-old and has plenty of competition from more experienced colleagues. He has started in two UEFA Cup games and three league matches and he confirmed that he expects to play more in the Copa Del Rey and Europe as the campaign goes on.
"The coach continues to transmit the same confidence that he did at the start of the season. I will try to give my all to show that I can be counted on when the chance comes to play," he concluded.
Crew rally in second half to beat FCD
Tale of two halves for Hoops vs. Crew
Pablo Remaining Positive
La Liga Preview: Sporting Gijón - Getafe
The midfielder has been on loan for the last two seasons at Getafe and he says that he would love to be able to play like he did there but that he is willing to wait for opportunities.
"It is clear that I want to play all games like I did last season with Getafe and whilst I am not getting as many minutes I know the opportunity will arrive."
"I came here knowing that it was going to be difficult and after seven league games it is hard to play more," he said.
Indeed, the midfielder has not done too bad this season so far, bearing in mind he is still just 23 years-old and has plenty of competition from more experienced colleagues. He has started in two UEFA Cup games and three league matches and he confirmed that he expects to play more in the Copa Del Rey and Europe as the campaign goes on.
"The coach continues to transmit the same confidence that he did at the start of the season. I will try to give my all to show that I can be counted on when the chance comes to play," he concluded.
Crew rally in second half to beat FCD
Tale of two halves for Hoops vs. Crew
Pablo Remaining Positive
La Liga Preview: Sporting Gijón - Getafe
I Could Not Be Happier - Llorente
After making the move from Valladolid to Villarreal this summer there were fears that Joseba Llorente would struggle to adapt, and whilst that might have been true at first, he is certainly finding his feet now.
The Spaniard has scored three times in seven league matches this season and bagged a hat-trick against AaB Aalborg in the Champions League midweek to cement his credentials as a top striker. Speaking today he says he could not be happier with the way things are going.
"I could not be happier, things are turning out well and I couldn't ask for any more," he said, "It is difficult to explain what happened against Aalborg, it seemed that it would be easy but in the end it was hard work to obtain victory."
"Arriving at a team like this and getting a starting place and confidence is difficult but that is earned by scoring goals and working hard. I am a forward and I am always going to try to be in the area to score," said the Basque.
Indeed, Llorente joined with a large reputation from Valladolid after scoring 42 goals in 100 games for them and he said he earnt the move by finding the net and working.
"In the end I am progressing as a footballer, but little by little. It is not just that I scored 25 in a season for Valladolid but that I was scoring each year and the move to Villarreal is because of that and I am enjoying it. People will always favour the stikers who do the tricks and bicycle kicks but I don't do that because it's not me," he said today.
It has been a big step up for the striker not just in terms of the players around him in the league but also playing in the Champions League. After his hat-trick in midweek he acknowledged that is is a very different experience to that he is used to.
"In this competition there is a whole new dimension. The league is the best in the world but the Champions League is another step up and has different meaning. The environment at night each week is great but I try to keep my feet on the ground," he concluded.
Pablo Remaining Positive
United hoping to add regional glory
Revs on wrong side of history
The Spaniard has scored three times in seven league matches this season and bagged a hat-trick against AaB Aalborg in the Champions League midweek to cement his credentials as a top striker. Speaking today he says he could not be happier with the way things are going.
"I could not be happier, things are turning out well and I couldn't ask for any more," he said, "It is difficult to explain what happened against Aalborg, it seemed that it would be easy but in the end it was hard work to obtain victory."
"Arriving at a team like this and getting a starting place and confidence is difficult but that is earned by scoring goals and working hard. I am a forward and I am always going to try to be in the area to score," said the Basque.
Indeed, Llorente joined with a large reputation from Valladolid after scoring 42 goals in 100 games for them and he said he earnt the move by finding the net and working.
"In the end I am progressing as a footballer, but little by little. It is not just that I scored 25 in a season for Valladolid but that I was scoring each year and the move to Villarreal is because of that and I am enjoying it. People will always favour the stikers who do the tricks and bicycle kicks but I don't do that because it's not me," he said today.
It has been a big step up for the striker not just in terms of the players around him in the league but also playing in the Champions League. After his hat-trick in midweek he acknowledged that is is a very different experience to that he is used to.
"In this competition there is a whole new dimension. The league is the best in the world but the Champions League is another step up and has different meaning. The environment at night each week is great but I try to keep my feet on the ground," he concluded.
Pablo Remaining Positive
United hoping to add regional glory
Revs on wrong side of history
Cerezo: No Racism Tonight - Just Football
In the aftermath of the late, late draw for the rojiblancos, Cerezo said, "We had a good game, and five or six players who came into the starting line-up today were excellent.
"The first half belonged to Liverpool, but the second was quite clearly Atlético's.
"We are reassured by having seven points, because that's a good amount to put us into the quarter finals."
Atlético had been in the firing line of late after UEFA punished them for disorderly conduct and racism among their fans.
Indeed, tonight's encounter was originally to have been moved away from the Spanish capital by the governing body, only for this decision to be altered on appeal.
Cerezo, then, was keen to play up the good behaviour of the fans.
He remarked, "The two fanbases have set an example. It was all about the spectacle on the pitch. There was no racism, nor xenophobia: just football. There were no incidents because the crowds behaved brilliantly."
Looking ahead, he concluded, "Now we must look to the future, and winning at Villarreal.
"We've had bad luck in our last two (Liga) games, but what we're interested in now is reaching the next round of the Champions League.
"Atético have a team good enough to play in Europe, both in quality and quantity."
I Am A Fascist - Abbiati
Weary Revs struggle to keep pace
"The first half belonged to Liverpool, but the second was quite clearly Atlético's.
"We are reassured by having seven points, because that's a good amount to put us into the quarter finals."
Atlético had been in the firing line of late after UEFA punished them for disorderly conduct and racism among their fans.
Indeed, tonight's encounter was originally to have been moved away from the Spanish capital by the governing body, only for this decision to be altered on appeal.
Cerezo, then, was keen to play up the good behaviour of the fans.
He remarked, "The two fanbases have set an example. It was all about the spectacle on the pitch. There was no racism, nor xenophobia: just football. There were no incidents because the crowds behaved brilliantly."
Looking ahead, he concluded, "Now we must look to the future, and winning at Villarreal.
"We've had bad luck in our last two (Liga) games, but what we're interested in now is reaching the next round of the Champions League.
"Atético have a team good enough to play in Europe, both in quality and quantity."
I Am A Fascist - Abbiati
Weary Revs struggle to keep pace
McClaren Wants A Race To Victory
The Enschede side meet Racing Santander in their first group match of the UEFA Cup and boss McClaren has underlined the importance of the match. The former England boss thinks Twente need six points in order to proceed to the next round.
"I'm pretty sure that six points is enough to qualify for the next round. Therefore, we need to win our two home fixtures. Four or five points might even seal the deal, too. We've the advantage that we start our campaign with a home match, so I want to grab the full three points," started McClaren.
"It's crucial to stay focused in European matches, even more than in Eredivisie games. Racing Santander is a different team than Rennes, they really have some technically gifted players. We need to convert the few chances we get," continued the former England boss.
"I don't care that they're struggling domestically. The Spanish league is one of the best leagues in the world. Additionally, Santander have the qualities to beat any team. It's necessary for us to stay focused for the full 90 minutes."
"We're full of confidence after our Eredivisie win against Heracles. The lads handled the pressure of playing a regional derby very good. We kept our patience and grabbed the win in the last fifteen minutes of the game," concluded the ex-England manager.
We Have The Strength In Depth - Pires
Rest provides tonic for weary Revs
LA hopes continuity makes difference
"I'm pretty sure that six points is enough to qualify for the next round. Therefore, we need to win our two home fixtures. Four or five points might even seal the deal, too. We've the advantage that we start our campaign with a home match, so I want to grab the full three points," started McClaren.
"It's crucial to stay focused in European matches, even more than in Eredivisie games. Racing Santander is a different team than Rennes, they really have some technically gifted players. We need to convert the few chances we get," continued the former England boss.
"I don't care that they're struggling domestically. The Spanish league is one of the best leagues in the world. Additionally, Santander have the qualities to beat any team. It's necessary for us to stay focused for the full 90 minutes."
"We're full of confidence after our Eredivisie win against Heracles. The lads handled the pressure of playing a regional derby very good. We kept our patience and grabbed the win in the last fifteen minutes of the game," concluded the ex-England manager.
We Have The Strength In Depth - Pires
Rest provides tonic for weary Revs
LA hopes continuity makes difference
Bruce Bullish Over Zaki As Madrid Join Hunt
The form of Amr Zaki is starting to worry Wigan boss Steve Bruce.
The Egyptian striker, one of the hottest breakthrough stars in the Premier League this term, has been deadly in the early weeks of the season. His stunning double against Liverpool at Anfield, in particular, has made Europe's elite clubs sit up and take notice.
Cash-rich Manchester City are said to be leading the race to sign the player, on loan at the JJB from Zamalek. However, Real Madrid have now reportedly joined the race.
The Daily Telegraph claims that the Spanish giants are ready to take the forward to the Bernabeu and don't expect his brief association with the Latics to pose a problem.
Gaffer Bruce is perturbed by the recent transfer speculation. Zaki was a long-term target for the club, who finally bagged him in the summer after a long pursuit, unchallenged by the European big-guns.
Bruce has moved to clarify Zaki's situation, saying: "I want to put the record straight because, at the minute, everyone wants a piece of the fellow. The truth of the matter is he is on loan with us until June - that's a fact.
"Over the next few weeks, or however long it takes, we will try and open negotiations with Zamalek and do everything in our power to try and make sure he stays here. The better he does the bigger the transfer fee, obviously.
"He's our player, so we're in the driving seat, but we haven't got first refusal. Still, I know the chairman thinks the world of him, so we will try to strike a deal."
Beating himself up for not snapping up Zaki for good when he had the chance, rather than merely thrusting him into the spotlight, Bruce added: "With hindsight it would have been nice for him to have been ours, but at least we've still got a chance."
Lewis looks to help reeling Galaxy
Acuña Close To Madrid Move
Madrid Seek Defensive Depth - Report
The Egyptian striker, one of the hottest breakthrough stars in the Premier League this term, has been deadly in the early weeks of the season. His stunning double against Liverpool at Anfield, in particular, has made Europe's elite clubs sit up and take notice.
Cash-rich Manchester City are said to be leading the race to sign the player, on loan at the JJB from Zamalek. However, Real Madrid have now reportedly joined the race.
The Daily Telegraph claims that the Spanish giants are ready to take the forward to the Bernabeu and don't expect his brief association with the Latics to pose a problem.
Gaffer Bruce is perturbed by the recent transfer speculation. Zaki was a long-term target for the club, who finally bagged him in the summer after a long pursuit, unchallenged by the European big-guns.
Bruce has moved to clarify Zaki's situation, saying: "I want to put the record straight because, at the minute, everyone wants a piece of the fellow. The truth of the matter is he is on loan with us until June - that's a fact.
"Over the next few weeks, or however long it takes, we will try and open negotiations with Zamalek and do everything in our power to try and make sure he stays here. The better he does the bigger the transfer fee, obviously.
"He's our player, so we're in the driving seat, but we haven't got first refusal. Still, I know the chairman thinks the world of him, so we will try to strike a deal."
Beating himself up for not snapping up Zaki for good when he had the chance, rather than merely thrusting him into the spotlight, Bruce added: "With hindsight it would have been nice for him to have been ours, but at least we've still got a chance."
Lewis looks to help reeling Galaxy
Acuña Close To Madrid Move
Madrid Seek Defensive Depth - Report
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Llorente: We Suffered But It Ended Well
Villarreal were made to work hard against AaB Aalborg tonight but in the end the Spanish side came through thanks to three second half goals from striker Joseba Llorente.
The Spaniard came off the bench to grab a hat-trick and inspire his side to a deceiving 6-3 victory in El Madrigal on Tuesday night. Speaking after the game he recognised that his side had come through a difficult encounter.
"We have suffered a lot, it was a game which perhaps was a trap against a team that seems lower but it was shown that if you take anything for granted things can happen."
"It was not a good first half but in the end everything finished well," he said afterwards.
Llorente grabbed his hat-trick in just 17 minutes during an explosive second half which featured five goals in total, four of them to the home side and just one to the Danes.
The win means that Villarreal are still joint top of the group with Manchester United and a victory in their next match away in Denmark would secure qualification.
Americans Abroad: Things Coming Together for Altidore
La Liga Team Of The Week: Round 2
Dynamo pleased with dominant show
The Spaniard came off the bench to grab a hat-trick and inspire his side to a deceiving 6-3 victory in El Madrigal on Tuesday night. Speaking after the game he recognised that his side had come through a difficult encounter.
"We have suffered a lot, it was a game which perhaps was a trap against a team that seems lower but it was shown that if you take anything for granted things can happen."
"It was not a good first half but in the end everything finished well," he said afterwards.
Llorente grabbed his hat-trick in just 17 minutes during an explosive second half which featured five goals in total, four of them to the home side and just one to the Danes.
The win means that Villarreal are still joint top of the group with Manchester United and a victory in their next match away in Denmark would secure qualification.
Americans Abroad: Things Coming Together for Altidore
La Liga Team Of The Week: Round 2
Dynamo pleased with dominant show
UEFA Cup Preview : CSKA Moscow - Deportivo La Coruna
Deportivo will be entering uncharted territory on Thursday night when they take on CSKA Moscow, marking the first time they encounter Russian opposition in Europe...
Experienced Campaigners
CSKA Moscow are one of those teams who seem to be made for the UEFA Cup. Often found wanting in the Champions League, it is in this competition that they come into their own, as evidenced by their title winning season in 04/05. However, their recent campaigns have not quite reached those dizzying heights.
Despite the (often accurate) stereotype associated with the perils of visiting Russian sides due to the treacherous weather and pitch conditions, the Luzhniki has hardly been a fortress for CSKA in Europe. A five match winless streak at home was only ended in the first round with an unconvincing 1-0 win over unfancied NK Slaven Koprivnica.
With the Russian Premier League operating in the summer months from March to November, CSKA effectively enter this competition at the back end of the season, rather than at the beginning like most of their rivals. Arguments can be made for both sides as to whether or not this is an advantage, but what is certain is that CSKA will be putting all their eggs into their European basket. While not mathematically out of the title race, the nine point deficit to Rubin Kazan is unlikely to be made up in five games. CSKA's priorities, therefore, are abundantly clear.
Former Glories
The days of Deportivo being a force to reckon with in Europe seem long gone, but it is only four years since they thrashed AC Milan 4-0 at the Riazor to turn over a 3-0 deficit and advance into the Champions League semi-finals. In those days, Depor used to consistently fight for domestic and European honours at the highest level, but eventually the big boys came calling and raided them of their best players. The recovery has never quite materialized.
Their route to the UEFA Cup Group Stage has been considerably less glamorous. After finishing ninth in La Liga last season, Depor had to go through the long drawn out process of the Intertoto Cup to reach the first round. Still, now that they are here, their opponents will no doubt be worried about a side with a history of upsetting the odds.
While it is early days in La Liga yet, Deportivo's current position of eleventh seems a fairly safe bet with regards to their final position. Not good enough to challenge for any serious honours, but not poor enough to go down, it should not be long before they simply settle for their mid table spot, and concentrate solely on Europe.
FORM GUIDE
CSKA Moscow
WON 4-1 (H) Amkar (Russian Premier League, 19th October)
WON 2-1 (A) Khimki (Russian Premier League, 5th October)
WON 1-0 (H) Slaven Koprivnica (UEFA Cup, 30th September)
WON 2-1 (H) Tom Tomsk (Russian Premier League, 27th September)
WON 1-0 (H) Baltika (Russian Cup, 24th September)
Deportivo La Coruna
DREW 0-0 (A) Racing Santander (La Liga, 19th October)
WON 1-0 (H) Numancia (La Liga, 5th October)
WON 2-0 (H) Brann (UEFA Cup, 2nd October)
LOST 4-2 (A) Valencia (La Liga, 28th September)
DREW 0-0 (A) Osasuna (La Liga, 24th September)
TEAM NEWS
CSKA Moscow
CSKA have no notable injury concerns to speak of, The Berezutski twins shold start in defence, while Yuri Zhirkov and fan favourite Vagner Love will carry the bulk of the attacking responsibility.
La Liga Preview: Racing Santander – Deportivo La Coruña
Mourinho Vows To Take Calcio Back To The Top
Schedule not working in United’s favor
Experienced Campaigners
CSKA Moscow are one of those teams who seem to be made for the UEFA Cup. Often found wanting in the Champions League, it is in this competition that they come into their own, as evidenced by their title winning season in 04/05. However, their recent campaigns have not quite reached those dizzying heights.
Despite the (often accurate) stereotype associated with the perils of visiting Russian sides due to the treacherous weather and pitch conditions, the Luzhniki has hardly been a fortress for CSKA in Europe. A five match winless streak at home was only ended in the first round with an unconvincing 1-0 win over unfancied NK Slaven Koprivnica.
With the Russian Premier League operating in the summer months from March to November, CSKA effectively enter this competition at the back end of the season, rather than at the beginning like most of their rivals. Arguments can be made for both sides as to whether or not this is an advantage, but what is certain is that CSKA will be putting all their eggs into their European basket. While not mathematically out of the title race, the nine point deficit to Rubin Kazan is unlikely to be made up in five games. CSKA's priorities, therefore, are abundantly clear.
Former Glories
The days of Deportivo being a force to reckon with in Europe seem long gone, but it is only four years since they thrashed AC Milan 4-0 at the Riazor to turn over a 3-0 deficit and advance into the Champions League semi-finals. In those days, Depor used to consistently fight for domestic and European honours at the highest level, but eventually the big boys came calling and raided them of their best players. The recovery has never quite materialized.
Their route to the UEFA Cup Group Stage has been considerably less glamorous. After finishing ninth in La Liga last season, Depor had to go through the long drawn out process of the Intertoto Cup to reach the first round. Still, now that they are here, their opponents will no doubt be worried about a side with a history of upsetting the odds.
While it is early days in La Liga yet, Deportivo's current position of eleventh seems a fairly safe bet with regards to their final position. Not good enough to challenge for any serious honours, but not poor enough to go down, it should not be long before they simply settle for their mid table spot, and concentrate solely on Europe.
FORM GUIDE
CSKA Moscow
WON 4-1 (H) Amkar (Russian Premier League, 19th October)
WON 2-1 (A) Khimki (Russian Premier League, 5th October)
WON 1-0 (H) Slaven Koprivnica (UEFA Cup, 30th September)
WON 2-1 (H) Tom Tomsk (Russian Premier League, 27th September)
WON 1-0 (H) Baltika (Russian Cup, 24th September)
Deportivo La Coruna
DREW 0-0 (A) Racing Santander (La Liga, 19th October)
WON 1-0 (H) Numancia (La Liga, 5th October)
WON 2-0 (H) Brann (UEFA Cup, 2nd October)
LOST 4-2 (A) Valencia (La Liga, 28th September)
DREW 0-0 (A) Osasuna (La Liga, 24th September)
TEAM NEWS
CSKA Moscow
CSKA have no notable injury concerns to speak of, The Berezutski twins shold start in defence, while Yuri Zhirkov and fan favourite Vagner Love will carry the bulk of the attacking responsibility.
La Liga Preview: Racing Santander – Deportivo La Coruña
Mourinho Vows To Take Calcio Back To The Top
Schedule not working in United’s favor
Player Ratings: Villarreal 6-3 AaB Aalborg
VILLARREAL
Diego López 5.5: Not directly at fault for any of the goals but might have organised his back line a bit better at the corner for the third.
Ángel López 6.5: A real Jekyll-and-Hyde performance from Ángel. In the first half he was often out of position with no end product to show for it, but in the second his interplay with Cazorla was excellent.
Gonzalo Rodríguez 5.5: Not the sort of showing that his is capable of by any means. Clearly missed his regular defensive line.
Fuentes 4: Amateurish stuff from the Argentine at times. Was at fault, along with Gonzalo, for the second goal, and overall he was too clumsy.
Capdevila 6.5: Other than his goal - and what a goal that was - this was not the best of games for Joan, who was caught between positions too often.
Santi Cazorla 7.5: Back on form in terms of his runs but little end product until AaB had tired. Still, there is little doubting his invention and drive. If only he had a left foot...
Edmílson 6: Some good long diagonals but was caught out on the counter in the first half. Not the calming influence he should have been.
Senna 7.5: Could do little on the ball until that decisive shot for Llorente's third, yet as always he knew his defensive role and how to fill it.
Mati Fernández 6.5: A few fantastic runs but he was correctly substituted due to a lack of final ball.
Guille Franco 5: A tetchy showing and one that was rightly rewarded with being hooked at half-time. He will know he wasn't good enough.
Rossi 7.5: Did well to open the scoring for his side and he drifted out well towards the end of the game.
Diego López 5.5: Not directly at fault for any of the goals but might have organised his back line a bit better at the corner for the third.
Ángel López 6.5: A real Jekyll-and-Hyde performance from Ángel. In the first half he was often out of position with no end product to show for it, but in the second his interplay with Cazorla was excellent.
Gonzalo Rodríguez 5.5: Not the sort of showing that his is capable of by any means. Clearly missed his regular defensive line.
Fuentes 4: Amateurish stuff from the Argentine at times. Was at fault, along with Gonzalo, for the second goal, and overall he was too clumsy.
Capdevila 6.5: Other than his goal - and what a goal that was - this was not the best of games for Joan, who was caught between positions too often.
Santi Cazorla 7.5: Back on form in terms of his runs but little end product until AaB had tired. Still, there is little doubting his invention and drive. If only he had a left foot...
Edmílson 6: Some good long diagonals but was caught out on the counter in the first half. Not the calming influence he should have been.
Senna 7.5: Could do little on the ball until that decisive shot for Llorente's third, yet as always he knew his defensive role and how to fill it.
Mati Fernández 6.5: A few fantastic runs but he was correctly substituted due to a lack of final ball.
Guille Franco 5: A tetchy showing and one that was rightly rewarded with being hooked at half-time. He will know he wasn't good enough.
Rossi 7.5: Did well to open the scoring for his side and he drifted out well towards the end of the game.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Casillas Invites Cristiano Ronaldo, Defends Ranieri
The shot-stopper is in fine form and he has spoken of all things Calcio.
Juventus are making the headlines for all the wrong reasons but Casillas doesn't believe it's the coaches' fault.
The European Championship winner believes too much demands are being made on the Tinkerman but he believes Juve can get out of the ruck they currently find themselves in.
"Too much is being asked from coach and team and it doesn't matter whether or not they have a competitive squad," the 'Keeper told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
"The needs there are brutal and sometimes it's difficult to keep everything under control but they can do well."
The goalkeeper then turned his attentions back on the Cristiano Ronaldo saga and he has invited the Portuguese international to try again.
"Ronaldo? I think any great player always has the possibility to join Real Madrid," added Casillas.
"He doesn't even need to think about it, he should just accept."
Casillas also spared a thought for Milan, Inter and the potential Ballon d'Or winners as he gives his opinion on the headline makers.
"Mourinho? Inter have done well to take him. He is a good coach and everyone I know always speak highly of him," continued the Spaniard.
"He says what he likes but that doesn't make him a bad person. His ranting and raving is fun and the wage revelations was brilliant.
"Ronaldinho? He will need time to adapt and get back to his best but I think leaving Barcelona was neccessary for him.
"Ballon d'Or? [Lionel] Messi, [Marcos] Senna and [Fernando] Torres are my three candidates."
Juventus welcome the Madrid giants at the Olimpico and anything less than a win could see Ranieri being given the boot.
Juventus are making the headlines for all the wrong reasons but Casillas doesn't believe it's the coaches' fault.
The European Championship winner believes too much demands are being made on the Tinkerman but he believes Juve can get out of the ruck they currently find themselves in.
"Too much is being asked from coach and team and it doesn't matter whether or not they have a competitive squad," the 'Keeper told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
"The needs there are brutal and sometimes it's difficult to keep everything under control but they can do well."
The goalkeeper then turned his attentions back on the Cristiano Ronaldo saga and he has invited the Portuguese international to try again.
"Ronaldo? I think any great player always has the possibility to join Real Madrid," added Casillas.
"He doesn't even need to think about it, he should just accept."
Casillas also spared a thought for Milan, Inter and the potential Ballon d'Or winners as he gives his opinion on the headline makers.
"Mourinho? Inter have done well to take him. He is a good coach and everyone I know always speak highly of him," continued the Spaniard.
"He says what he likes but that doesn't make him a bad person. His ranting and raving is fun and the wage revelations was brilliant.
"Ronaldinho? He will need time to adapt and get back to his best but I think leaving Barcelona was neccessary for him.
"Ballon d'Or? [Lionel] Messi, [Marcos] Senna and [Fernando] Torres are my three candidates."
Juventus welcome the Madrid giants at the Olimpico and anything less than a win could see Ranieri being given the boot.
Roberto Carlos: Arsenal Must Keep Cesc
Former Real Madrid left-back Roberto Carlos is looking forward to the challenge of Arsenal in Istanbul tonight.
But there has recently been much speculation about the future of Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas at the club - even though the Catalan himself has been at pains to correct mis-quotes and reaffirm his commitment to the Gunners.
Carlos is in no doubt that Cesc's exit would be a devastating blow for manager Arsene Wenger.
He told The Sun: “When people think about Arsenal they talk about Emmanuel Adebayor and Robin van Persie but for me the key player for them is Fabregas.
“The young Spaniard is a fabulous player and key to the team. They are a very offensive outfit but they need a creator and Fabregas does that, as well as defend well.
“Fabregas is the player we will have to watch the most in this game because it is one we need to win.
“He would be a great loss to Arsenal if he ever left the club."
Carlos has also warned Arsenal that it will be tough for them in Istanbul.
He said: “People might look at where we are in the group [bottom, to Arsenal's top] and think that we are easy to beat but that is not the case.
“Arsenal have a lot of injuries in their team so they will have a few inexperienced players and the atmosphere at our stadium could be a real shock for them.”
Americans outlast Cuba in Havana
Ballon d’Or Nominees Announced
Lewis looks to help reeling Galaxy
Cesc Denies Contract Row Story
But there has recently been much speculation about the future of Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas at the club - even though the Catalan himself has been at pains to correct mis-quotes and reaffirm his commitment to the Gunners.
Carlos is in no doubt that Cesc's exit would be a devastating blow for manager Arsene Wenger.
He told The Sun: “When people think about Arsenal they talk about Emmanuel Adebayor and Robin van Persie but for me the key player for them is Fabregas.
“The young Spaniard is a fabulous player and key to the team. They are a very offensive outfit but they need a creator and Fabregas does that, as well as defend well.
“Fabregas is the player we will have to watch the most in this game because it is one we need to win.
“He would be a great loss to Arsenal if he ever left the club."
Carlos has also warned Arsenal that it will be tough for them in Istanbul.
He said: “People might look at where we are in the group [bottom, to Arsenal's top] and think that we are easy to beat but that is not the case.
“Arsenal have a lot of injuries in their team so they will have a few inexperienced players and the atmosphere at our stadium could be a real shock for them.”
Americans outlast Cuba in Havana
Ballon d’Or Nominees Announced
Lewis looks to help reeling Galaxy
Cesc Denies Contract Row Story
Mantovani Ecstatic Following First Serie A Goal
For Mantovani this is a happy moment as apart from soon becoming a dad he also tasted the joy of scoring in the Italian top flight as the Flying Donkeys held in-form Atalanta to a 1-1 draw.
"I'm very happy also because it's my first goal in Serie A," explained the young Chievo defender. "Obviously if the three points had arrived as well, it would have been even more exciting.
"I want to dedicate the goal to my partner, who will soon make me become a dad."
Mantovani then went on to talk about the game and the point gained from this clash.
"If we analyze the game, the draw is a good result," he continued. "They created many important chances and we had our say.
"Let's hold on to this good point, even though it will be very important to do even better, possibly starting from next Sunday."
Ekpo draws pride from Olympic success
Ibrahimovic Serie A’s Highest Paid Player
"I'm very happy also because it's my first goal in Serie A," explained the young Chievo defender. "Obviously if the three points had arrived as well, it would have been even more exciting.
"I want to dedicate the goal to my partner, who will soon make me become a dad."
Mantovani then went on to talk about the game and the point gained from this clash.
"If we analyze the game, the draw is a good result," he continued. "They created many important chances and we had our say.
"Let's hold on to this good point, even though it will be very important to do even better, possibly starting from next Sunday."
Ekpo draws pride from Olympic success
Ibrahimovic Serie A’s Highest Paid Player
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Kobe Bryant: I Expect An Offer from Joan Laporta
The 30-year old basketball legend was given the opportunity to speak of his admiration of the Catalan club and that his chat with Laporta had been 'pending an offer'.
Bryant has been with the Lakers since he was eighteen years old, and in that time has established himself as one of the most recognisable players from the sport in the world. The star has two years left on his contract but has an option to terminate the deal at the end of the 2008/09 season.
But if Bryant were ever to sign for Barcelona, it would have to be for the football team, as it is unlikely he will play basketball for any other team than his beloved Lakers.
Laporta had been at Catalan club convention in the United States, where he presented the player with a signed poster of his favourite player, Argentine Lionel Messi, which he was delighted to receive and said he would put it in his locker.
The Barcelona basketball team recently took on the LA Lakers in a freindly encounter.
Lewis looks to help reeling Galaxy
Unkind twist hits at RSL’s depth
Van Der Vaart Wanted Barça
Manu: My Salary Could Have Been Trebled
Bryant has been with the Lakers since he was eighteen years old, and in that time has established himself as one of the most recognisable players from the sport in the world. The star has two years left on his contract but has an option to terminate the deal at the end of the 2008/09 season.
But if Bryant were ever to sign for Barcelona, it would have to be for the football team, as it is unlikely he will play basketball for any other team than his beloved Lakers.
Laporta had been at Catalan club convention in the United States, where he presented the player with a signed poster of his favourite player, Argentine Lionel Messi, which he was delighted to receive and said he would put it in his locker.
The Barcelona basketball team recently took on the LA Lakers in a freindly encounter.
Lewis looks to help reeling Galaxy
Unkind twist hits at RSL’s depth
Van Der Vaart Wanted Barça
Manu: My Salary Could Have Been Trebled
Barcelona March On In Bilbao
A hard-fought first half gave way to a more entertaining second as Barcelona deservedly - but with difficulty - took all three points home with them from the Basque country.
First Half
Barcelona came out with a mission, but Athletic, lining up 4-5-1, had one of their own: preventing slick, open football from the visitors.
The home side were pressing avidly from the first minute and after winning possession early on gained a free kick 25 yards out. It was up to Víctor Valdés to pull off an acrobatic save from David López's set-piece effort.
Still, Barça had some tricks of their own, and Eto'o had the beating of Amorebieta up front, so it was not too surprising when the Cameroonian forced a stop from Gorka Iraizoz at the other end.
Nonetheless the match was characterised by scrappy midfield play and long shots in these early stages as neither side could quite establish a rhythm. Iniesta shot over at one end, while the vastly-improved Valdés at the other pulled off another great dead-ball stop, this time from Yeste.
Barça were troubled by an injury to Keita on the half hour mark, necessitating the introduction of Busquets alongside his fellow cantera lad, Víctor Sánchez, and as such it took a few more minutes for the blaugrana to re-adjust.
In fact there were to be no more opportunities of note before the half-time whistle.
Second Half
After the break things were more to the neutral observer's liking as the game started to open up. Three minutes after the restart some fine work down the right eventually saw Iniesta cut the ball back for the onrushing Sánchez, but the youngster blasted his unmarked effort way, way over the ba.
Iniesta, in fact, had taken control of the game by this time, even allowing for Athletic's counters, but it was Henry who set up Eto'o for the opener.
The Frenchman's little through ball found Eto'o on the edge of the box, and so well timed was it that the striker was able to tip the ball past the flailing Amorebieta and go through on goal. The best was still to come, though, as Eto'os thunderous finish with his left foot left Iraizoz utterly helpless.
The hapless Amorebieta almost put through his own net minutes later with a header, but Iraizoz's diving save kept the score at 0-1 as the closing stage of the match began.
Markel Susaeta looked to spearhead the counters for Athletic, but Barça were wise enough at the back to deal with most of the hosts' threats on the break.
In fact Barcelona managed a counter of their own as they sat back towards the end, a swift team move eventually seeing Iniesta square the ball across for Eto'o only for the Cameroonian to roll the shot wide, much to his disgust.
As the clock wore down - and two Barça players were booked for aiding it in doing so - the three points headed back to Catalunya.
ATHLETIC CLUB BILBAO 0-0 FC BARCELONA
Athletic: Gorka Iraizoz; Iraola, Aitor Ocio, Amorebieta, Balenziaga; Orbaiz (Gurpegi 76'), Yeste; David López, Garmendia (Susaeta 60'), Gabilondo (Ion Vélez 75'); Llorente.
Barcelona: Víctor Valdés; Dani Alves, Márquez (Puyol 65'), Piqué, Abidal; Víctor Sánchez, Yaya Touré, Keita (Busquets 32); Iniesta, Eto'o, Henry (Hleb 79').
Yellow Cards: Amorebieta 38', Garmendia 48', Balenziaga 74' - Márquez 49', Busquets 88', Eto'o 89'
Tale of two halves for Hoops vs. Crew
Player Ratings: Barcelona 3-1 Sporting
Twist of fate pays off for De Rosario
Player Ratings: Shakhtar 1-2 Barcelona
First Half
Barcelona came out with a mission, but Athletic, lining up 4-5-1, had one of their own: preventing slick, open football from the visitors.
The home side were pressing avidly from the first minute and after winning possession early on gained a free kick 25 yards out. It was up to Víctor Valdés to pull off an acrobatic save from David López's set-piece effort.
Still, Barça had some tricks of their own, and Eto'o had the beating of Amorebieta up front, so it was not too surprising when the Cameroonian forced a stop from Gorka Iraizoz at the other end.
Nonetheless the match was characterised by scrappy midfield play and long shots in these early stages as neither side could quite establish a rhythm. Iniesta shot over at one end, while the vastly-improved Valdés at the other pulled off another great dead-ball stop, this time from Yeste.
Barça were troubled by an injury to Keita on the half hour mark, necessitating the introduction of Busquets alongside his fellow cantera lad, Víctor Sánchez, and as such it took a few more minutes for the blaugrana to re-adjust.
In fact there were to be no more opportunities of note before the half-time whistle.
Second Half
After the break things were more to the neutral observer's liking as the game started to open up. Three minutes after the restart some fine work down the right eventually saw Iniesta cut the ball back for the onrushing Sánchez, but the youngster blasted his unmarked effort way, way over the ba.
Iniesta, in fact, had taken control of the game by this time, even allowing for Athletic's counters, but it was Henry who set up Eto'o for the opener.
The Frenchman's little through ball found Eto'o on the edge of the box, and so well timed was it that the striker was able to tip the ball past the flailing Amorebieta and go through on goal. The best was still to come, though, as Eto'os thunderous finish with his left foot left Iraizoz utterly helpless.
The hapless Amorebieta almost put through his own net minutes later with a header, but Iraizoz's diving save kept the score at 0-1 as the closing stage of the match began.
Markel Susaeta looked to spearhead the counters for Athletic, but Barça were wise enough at the back to deal with most of the hosts' threats on the break.
In fact Barcelona managed a counter of their own as they sat back towards the end, a swift team move eventually seeing Iniesta square the ball across for Eto'o only for the Cameroonian to roll the shot wide, much to his disgust.
As the clock wore down - and two Barça players were booked for aiding it in doing so - the three points headed back to Catalunya.
ATHLETIC CLUB BILBAO 0-0 FC BARCELONA
Athletic: Gorka Iraizoz; Iraola, Aitor Ocio, Amorebieta, Balenziaga; Orbaiz (Gurpegi 76'), Yeste; David López, Garmendia (Susaeta 60'), Gabilondo (Ion Vélez 75'); Llorente.
Barcelona: Víctor Valdés; Dani Alves, Márquez (Puyol 65'), Piqué, Abidal; Víctor Sánchez, Yaya Touré, Keita (Busquets 32); Iniesta, Eto'o, Henry (Hleb 79').
Yellow Cards: Amorebieta 38', Garmendia 48', Balenziaga 74' - Márquez 49', Busquets 88', Eto'o 89'
Tale of two halves for Hoops vs. Crew
Player Ratings: Barcelona 3-1 Sporting
Twist of fate pays off for De Rosario
Player Ratings: Shakhtar 1-2 Barcelona
Adriano Strike Downs Almería
Sevilla maintained their unbeaten start to La Liga as they picked up a priceless three points away at Almería in a game which predictably, with both sides missing key players, offered little in the way of chances and was largely contested in the midfield.
After a dour first half the game was eventually decided less than ten minutes after the interval by Adriano who struck a nice volley from 20 yards out but only saw it go into the back of the net after a huge deflection.
Sevilla, without Luis Fabiano, Freddy Kanouté, Javier Chevantón and Arouna Koné, looked blunt upfront for most of the match and despite their impressive midfield they failed to create too many chances of note.
Likewise the hosts, without Pablo Piatti, didn't really trouble Andrés Palop for the whole match and manager Gonzalo Arconada will be disappointed with the overall performance of his team. They worked hard in midfield and defence and maybe deserved a draw but in the final third they lacked any bite and the Sevilla back four dealt with them relatively easily.
Indeed, their best chance of the match came in injury time when José Chico headed straight at Palop when he should have at least worked the experienced keeper.
For Sevilla it is another impressive win on their travels and without many of their best players this victory really signals them out as strong contenders for silverware this year. Almería on the other hand will be frustrated and with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Villarreal all to play in the next few weeks they could find their good start undone unless they can cause an upset.
All Change
It was all change for Sevilla as they travelled to the Estadio Mediterraneo with Fabiano, Kanouté, Koné and Chevanton all absent from the front line for the visitors. Instead Manolo Jiménez started out with an attacking midfield with Acosta darting forward into an attacking postion, Adriano and Navas the main threats on the outside and Romaric playing upfront on his own.
For Almería it was a new look strike force too with Pablo Piatti out injured and Álvaro Negredo playing as the lone target man with midfielders looking to pick up on his knock downs and clever hold up play. He was involved early on as well as Ortiz linked up with him only for Negredo to try an ambitious shot which Andrés Palop did not even have to move for.
Indeed, the first real effort to test either keeper came at the other end where Lautaro Acosta fired a shot in which Diego Alves had to dive to palm away. Acosta was looking a real threat, picking up on knock downs and driving forward and constantly keeping the Almería defence on their toes with his smart movement. Likewise Romaric upfront, who was given a starting role for this match, imposed himself on the game quickly and had a couple of efforts early on which flew wide of the Almería goal.
Despite their lack of strikers Sevilla were looking the more comfortable of the two sides and were winning the midfield battle to dominate possession for most of the first an hour. Romaric was winning the balls in the air and he nearly picked up on a spill by Alves but the Brazilian managed to claim the ball at the second time of asking. After a promising start to the half it started to degenerate into a bit of an ugly affair with the ball been given away too easily and the wet surface and heavy rain not helping proceedings.
Tackles too were flying in and Enzo Maresca had a chance to put Sevilla ahead just before the break with a free-kick a few yards outside the box but he shot straight at the keeper. Soon after that effort, and with the half time whistle looming, the visitors nearly conceded a suicidal goal as Fernando Navarro completely mis-kicked the ball, leaving Palop to nick the ball way from Negredo in the nick of time, but not without a heavy collision with the striker. Luckily for Almería the Spaniard got up and was fine and luckily for Navarro he was able to clear and spare his blushes as the half-time whistle blew on a game which promised a lot but went downhill since the opening fifteen minutes.
Lucky Break
After the interval both sides seemed to come out looking refreshed and Adriano cut inside early and pinged a shot wide from his right foot before Juan Manuel Ortiz nearly nipped in behind the defence but David Prieto found Palop with his back pass. The promising start got the crowd going and Juanito tested Palop with a nice effort before Acosta sprinted nearly the whole length of the pitch on the break to earn his side a corner. That determination and effort was to be the spark for the opening goal as the corner was headed out and Adriano struck a sweet volley which, with a hugely fortunate deflection, beat Alves and gave Sevilla the lead. There is little doubt that the Brazilian hit it well from 20 yards but it looked as though the keeper would have saved it relatively easily were it not for the fact it hit a defender and wrong-footed him completely.
It was an unfortunate goal to concede but it seemed to bring Almería to life and Corona started to show some menace with his running whilst Negredo was working tirelessly to try and create something but to no avail. Sevilla seemed content to sit back a little after the goal and with the pace of Adriano, Acosta and Navas they tested the Almería defence on more than one occasion but never really created an end product with Romaric not been able to keep up with the trio. The hosts looked vulnerable on the break but they dominated possession after the goal and Corona blasted a good chance way over as he got the ball on the edge of the box in acres of space.
Kalu Uche came on for Ortiz with 25 minutes left and he certainly added some zip to the side whereas another replacement, Natalio, had his most notable moment when he was booked for diving as he flung himself to the floor in the box. Almería were starting to look dangerous though and Julio Álvarez curled a free-kick just wide of the post after Romaric had been booked for a late tackle outside the area. Despite controlling the possession though they couldn't really create any chances from open play and Navas should have killed the game off as he picked up on a horrible clearance by Bruno and tried to square for Acosta but his pass was too short and Alves cleared it.
As had been the case for the past 85 minutes Almería couldn't break Sevilla down and the back four looked very impressive as they kept Negredo, Uche and Natalio at bay with relative ease. Indeed, the hosts had their best chance of the match in injury time as José Chico rose for a header just a few yards out but he could only direct his effort straight into the arms of Palop when he should have at least made him dive. That was the last chance for Almería as the referee called full time on a match which offered glimpses of excitement but on the whole was a largely mediocre affair with the absence of strikers very notable.
Almería 0-1 Sevilla
`52 0-1 Adriano
Bookings: Navas `64, Natalio `72, Romaric `76, Fernando `83
Almería: Alves, Bruno, Chico, Pellerano, Mané, Soriano (`62 Natalio), Juanito, Mosquera, Corona (`83 Solari), Ortiz (`66 Uche), Negredo
Sevilla: Palop, Konko, Preito, Escudé, Navarro, Duscher, Romaric, Adriano (`75 Armenteros), Maresca (`67 Fazio), Navas, Acosta (`86 Fernando)
Adriano: Sevilla Still A Force
United fall in Champions League opener
Sevilla Narrow Victors After First Half Goalfest
After a dour first half the game was eventually decided less than ten minutes after the interval by Adriano who struck a nice volley from 20 yards out but only saw it go into the back of the net after a huge deflection.
Sevilla, without Luis Fabiano, Freddy Kanouté, Javier Chevantón and Arouna Koné, looked blunt upfront for most of the match and despite their impressive midfield they failed to create too many chances of note.
Likewise the hosts, without Pablo Piatti, didn't really trouble Andrés Palop for the whole match and manager Gonzalo Arconada will be disappointed with the overall performance of his team. They worked hard in midfield and defence and maybe deserved a draw but in the final third they lacked any bite and the Sevilla back four dealt with them relatively easily.
Indeed, their best chance of the match came in injury time when José Chico headed straight at Palop when he should have at least worked the experienced keeper.
For Sevilla it is another impressive win on their travels and without many of their best players this victory really signals them out as strong contenders for silverware this year. Almería on the other hand will be frustrated and with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Villarreal all to play in the next few weeks they could find their good start undone unless they can cause an upset.
All Change
It was all change for Sevilla as they travelled to the Estadio Mediterraneo with Fabiano, Kanouté, Koné and Chevanton all absent from the front line for the visitors. Instead Manolo Jiménez started out with an attacking midfield with Acosta darting forward into an attacking postion, Adriano and Navas the main threats on the outside and Romaric playing upfront on his own.
For Almería it was a new look strike force too with Pablo Piatti out injured and Álvaro Negredo playing as the lone target man with midfielders looking to pick up on his knock downs and clever hold up play. He was involved early on as well as Ortiz linked up with him only for Negredo to try an ambitious shot which Andrés Palop did not even have to move for.
Indeed, the first real effort to test either keeper came at the other end where Lautaro Acosta fired a shot in which Diego Alves had to dive to palm away. Acosta was looking a real threat, picking up on knock downs and driving forward and constantly keeping the Almería defence on their toes with his smart movement. Likewise Romaric upfront, who was given a starting role for this match, imposed himself on the game quickly and had a couple of efforts early on which flew wide of the Almería goal.
Despite their lack of strikers Sevilla were looking the more comfortable of the two sides and were winning the midfield battle to dominate possession for most of the first an hour. Romaric was winning the balls in the air and he nearly picked up on a spill by Alves but the Brazilian managed to claim the ball at the second time of asking. After a promising start to the half it started to degenerate into a bit of an ugly affair with the ball been given away too easily and the wet surface and heavy rain not helping proceedings.
Tackles too were flying in and Enzo Maresca had a chance to put Sevilla ahead just before the break with a free-kick a few yards outside the box but he shot straight at the keeper. Soon after that effort, and with the half time whistle looming, the visitors nearly conceded a suicidal goal as Fernando Navarro completely mis-kicked the ball, leaving Palop to nick the ball way from Negredo in the nick of time, but not without a heavy collision with the striker. Luckily for Almería the Spaniard got up and was fine and luckily for Navarro he was able to clear and spare his blushes as the half-time whistle blew on a game which promised a lot but went downhill since the opening fifteen minutes.
Lucky Break
After the interval both sides seemed to come out looking refreshed and Adriano cut inside early and pinged a shot wide from his right foot before Juan Manuel Ortiz nearly nipped in behind the defence but David Prieto found Palop with his back pass. The promising start got the crowd going and Juanito tested Palop with a nice effort before Acosta sprinted nearly the whole length of the pitch on the break to earn his side a corner. That determination and effort was to be the spark for the opening goal as the corner was headed out and Adriano struck a sweet volley which, with a hugely fortunate deflection, beat Alves and gave Sevilla the lead. There is little doubt that the Brazilian hit it well from 20 yards but it looked as though the keeper would have saved it relatively easily were it not for the fact it hit a defender and wrong-footed him completely.
It was an unfortunate goal to concede but it seemed to bring Almería to life and Corona started to show some menace with his running whilst Negredo was working tirelessly to try and create something but to no avail. Sevilla seemed content to sit back a little after the goal and with the pace of Adriano, Acosta and Navas they tested the Almería defence on more than one occasion but never really created an end product with Romaric not been able to keep up with the trio. The hosts looked vulnerable on the break but they dominated possession after the goal and Corona blasted a good chance way over as he got the ball on the edge of the box in acres of space.
Kalu Uche came on for Ortiz with 25 minutes left and he certainly added some zip to the side whereas another replacement, Natalio, had his most notable moment when he was booked for diving as he flung himself to the floor in the box. Almería were starting to look dangerous though and Julio Álvarez curled a free-kick just wide of the post after Romaric had been booked for a late tackle outside the area. Despite controlling the possession though they couldn't really create any chances from open play and Navas should have killed the game off as he picked up on a horrible clearance by Bruno and tried to square for Acosta but his pass was too short and Alves cleared it.
As had been the case for the past 85 minutes Almería couldn't break Sevilla down and the back four looked very impressive as they kept Negredo, Uche and Natalio at bay with relative ease. Indeed, the hosts had their best chance of the match in injury time as José Chico rose for a header just a few yards out but he could only direct his effort straight into the arms of Palop when he should have at least made him dive. That was the last chance for Almería as the referee called full time on a match which offered glimpses of excitement but on the whole was a largely mediocre affair with the absence of strikers very notable.
Almería 0-1 Sevilla
`52 0-1 Adriano
Bookings: Navas `64, Natalio `72, Romaric `76, Fernando `83
Almería: Alves, Bruno, Chico, Pellerano, Mané, Soriano (`62 Natalio), Juanito, Mosquera, Corona (`83 Solari), Ortiz (`66 Uche), Negredo
Sevilla: Palop, Konko, Preito, Escudé, Navarro, Duscher, Romaric, Adriano (`75 Armenteros), Maresca (`67 Fazio), Navas, Acosta (`86 Fernando)
Adriano: Sevilla Still A Force
United fall in Champions League opener
Sevilla Narrow Victors After First Half Goalfest
Ballon d'Or Nominees Announced
Most notable perhaps are the absences of AC Milan's Ronaldinho and Barcelona forward Thierry Henry, with the duo both judged on their relatively disappointing season at Camp Nou and internationally.
Ronaldinho endured a torrid season in Barcelona last term, suffering from injury and a loss form, and thus the Brazil international will not have the opportunity to add to the award he won in 2005.
"It's normal, I did not play much in the last season," Ronaldinho told French TV channel TF1.
Similarly, Henry had a difficult first season in Spain following his move from Arsenal, and France were also eliminated from Euro 2008 at the first-round, and so he misses out on the shortlist for the first time since 1999.
They are not the only big-name omissions, with 2006 and 2004 winners Andriy Shevchenko and Fabio Cannavaro both missing, and clearly the lists' reduced size of 30 from 50 players is taking effect.
Unsurprisingly, European Championship winners Spain boast seven players on the list, including Liverpool sensation Fernando Torres and Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas, while Brazil have just one player, Kaka, of their own.
Champions League and Premier League champions Manchester United have three players in the running, with hot favourite Cristiano Ronaldo, England hero Wayne Rooney and defender Nemanja Vidic part of the selected pool.
Meanwhile, fellow Champions League finalists Chelsea have three players of their own among the 30, with Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba joining Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard as the English contingency.
The winner will be selected on 2 December when 96 journalists from around the world cast their vote in a poll organised by France Football magazine.
The full list of nominees is as follows:
Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal), Togo.
Sergio Agüero (Atletico Madrid), Argentine.
Andreï Archavine (Zénith Saint-Pétersbourg), Russia.
Michael Ballack (Chelsea), Germany.
Karim Benzema (Lyon), France.
Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus Turin), Italy.
Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Spain.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Portugal.
Didier Drogba (Chelsea), Ivory Coast.
Samuel Eto'o (FC Barcelone), Cameroon.
Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal), Spain.
Fernando Torres (Liverpool FC), Spain.
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool FC), England.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Inter Milan), Sweden.
Kaka (Milan AC), Brazil.
Frank Lampard (Chelsea), England.
Lionel Messi (FC Barcelone), Argentina.
Pepe (Real Madrid), Portugal.
Franck Ribéry (Bayern Munich), France.
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), England.
Marcos Senna (Villarreal), Spain.
Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Spain.
Luca Toni (Bayern Munich), Italy.
Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United), Netherlands.
Rafael van der Vaart (Hamburg SV puis Real Madrid), Netherlands.
Ruud van Nistelrooy (Real Madrid), Netherlands.
Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United), Serbia.
David Villa (Valence CF), Spain.
Xavi (FC Barcelone), Spain.
Youri Zhirkov (CSKA Moscou), Russia.
Juventus 95th Best Team In World!
Davis: Gullit never meshed with MLS
McBride set to make Fire debut
Ronaldinho endured a torrid season in Barcelona last term, suffering from injury and a loss form, and thus the Brazil international will not have the opportunity to add to the award he won in 2005.
"It's normal, I did not play much in the last season," Ronaldinho told French TV channel TF1.
Similarly, Henry had a difficult first season in Spain following his move from Arsenal, and France were also eliminated from Euro 2008 at the first-round, and so he misses out on the shortlist for the first time since 1999.
They are not the only big-name omissions, with 2006 and 2004 winners Andriy Shevchenko and Fabio Cannavaro both missing, and clearly the lists' reduced size of 30 from 50 players is taking effect.
Unsurprisingly, European Championship winners Spain boast seven players on the list, including Liverpool sensation Fernando Torres and Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas, while Brazil have just one player, Kaka, of their own.
Champions League and Premier League champions Manchester United have three players in the running, with hot favourite Cristiano Ronaldo, England hero Wayne Rooney and defender Nemanja Vidic part of the selected pool.
Meanwhile, fellow Champions League finalists Chelsea have three players of their own among the 30, with Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba joining Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard as the English contingency.
The winner will be selected on 2 December when 96 journalists from around the world cast their vote in a poll organised by France Football magazine.
The full list of nominees is as follows:
Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal), Togo.
Sergio Agüero (Atletico Madrid), Argentine.
Andreï Archavine (Zénith Saint-Pétersbourg), Russia.
Michael Ballack (Chelsea), Germany.
Karim Benzema (Lyon), France.
Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus Turin), Italy.
Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Spain.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Portugal.
Didier Drogba (Chelsea), Ivory Coast.
Samuel Eto'o (FC Barcelone), Cameroon.
Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal), Spain.
Fernando Torres (Liverpool FC), Spain.
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool FC), England.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Inter Milan), Sweden.
Kaka (Milan AC), Brazil.
Frank Lampard (Chelsea), England.
Lionel Messi (FC Barcelone), Argentina.
Pepe (Real Madrid), Portugal.
Franck Ribéry (Bayern Munich), France.
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), England.
Marcos Senna (Villarreal), Spain.
Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Spain.
Luca Toni (Bayern Munich), Italy.
Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United), Netherlands.
Rafael van der Vaart (Hamburg SV puis Real Madrid), Netherlands.
Ruud van Nistelrooy (Real Madrid), Netherlands.
Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United), Serbia.
David Villa (Valence CF), Spain.
Xavi (FC Barcelone), Spain.
Youri Zhirkov (CSKA Moscou), Russia.
Juventus 95th Best Team In World!
Davis: Gullit never meshed with MLS
McBride set to make Fire debut
Cesc Denies Contract Row Story
The British tabloid reported that the young Spaniard had turned down the prospect of a contract extension, raising rumours that he may be looking to leave the London club.
Cesc, in fact, has recently stated that he may one day like to return to FC Barcelona, indicating that perhaps all was not well at the Emirates.
However, the man himself this morning spoke out against such reports, stating that he was in it for the long haul at Arsene Wenger's side.
He told the official Arsenal website, "A newspaper report suggesting that I have rejected a new contract is untrue," he said.
"The article is just mischief-making. Everybody knows I have a long-term contract and that I am happy here. I'm focussed on doing my best for Arsenal."
Cesc's contract at the Gunners runs until at least 2011, although a series of extension clauses could see him tied down in North London until 2014.
RSL, Morales agree to extension
Juventus 95th Best Team In World!
Cesc, in fact, has recently stated that he may one day like to return to FC Barcelona, indicating that perhaps all was not well at the Emirates.
However, the man himself this morning spoke out against such reports, stating that he was in it for the long haul at Arsene Wenger's side.
He told the official Arsenal website, "A newspaper report suggesting that I have rejected a new contract is untrue," he said.
"The article is just mischief-making. Everybody knows I have a long-term contract and that I am happy here. I'm focussed on doing my best for Arsenal."
Cesc's contract at the Gunners runs until at least 2011, although a series of extension clauses could see him tied down in North London until 2014.
RSL, Morales agree to extension
Juventus 95th Best Team In World!
Leo Franco: We Must Not Lose League Focus
Los Colchoneros were beaten in the closing moments of the local derby against Real Madrid on Saturday and could now lose touch with the top four and that worries the Argentinian keeper.
While the game against Liverpool is one that all Atlético's players and fans are relishing, Leo Franco is keen to ensure that the focus returns to the league straight afterwards.
"We have not had time to analyse this game, but we shall and now we have to start to focus on Liverpool," he said after the defeat to el Real.
"It is a great game, but we must not forget about the league because after this defeat the teams above us can move clear at the top.
"We have to continue to stay in and around the sides that will be up there at the end of the season."
Despite being beaten by an injury time penalty, Leo Franco thinks that Atlético showed the right commitment and spirit to have taken something from the match.
"Nobody can say anything bad about the team because the attitude was excellent. We worked very hard to keep it level and just when it seemed like we would earn a point they scored a second goal," he added.
"It was very important that we win the game, but one again Real Madrid have claimed the victory."
McBride set to make Fire debut
Revs on wrong side of history
Mijatovic: We Are Obliged To Do Well In Cup
De La Red: Sanctions Will Not Affect This Saturday
While the game against Liverpool is one that all Atlético's players and fans are relishing, Leo Franco is keen to ensure that the focus returns to the league straight afterwards.
"We have not had time to analyse this game, but we shall and now we have to start to focus on Liverpool," he said after the defeat to el Real.
"It is a great game, but we must not forget about the league because after this defeat the teams above us can move clear at the top.
"We have to continue to stay in and around the sides that will be up there at the end of the season."
Despite being beaten by an injury time penalty, Leo Franco thinks that Atlético showed the right commitment and spirit to have taken something from the match.
"Nobody can say anything bad about the team because the attitude was excellent. We worked very hard to keep it level and just when it seemed like we would earn a point they scored a second goal," he added.
"It was very important that we win the game, but one again Real Madrid have claimed the victory."
McBride set to make Fire debut
Revs on wrong side of history
Mijatovic: We Are Obliged To Do Well In Cup
De La Red: Sanctions Will Not Affect This Saturday
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Pellegrini: Being First Is Not The Obsession, Winning Is!
Villarreal are one of the most solid and hard working sides in La Liga and in Manuel Pellegrini they have one of the best managers in Spain undoubtedly.
The Chilean joined back in 2004 and has seen his side develop into real contenders for silverware over the years thanks to his guidance. Now they are joint top of the league after six games but he says being first is not the be all and end all, rather winning games is.
"To be leaders is not an obsession," he started, "We desire to keep winning to be at the top and don't worry about what Valencia do or if we remain first."
"We are in the seventh round [of matches] and it does not have any significance but each point that we drop the objectives do move further away," he mused today.
Next up for El Submarino Amarillo are Espanyol who beat them three nil last season in this fixture but Pellegrini insists revenge is not on the menu.
"We are not out for revenge, that is something none of us want. We go with a desire to take all three points so it helps us to continue up the table," said the Chilean.
Pellegrini's job is not being made any easier by the fact that Villarreal currently have a growing injury list and key players like Sebastián Eguren, Ariel Ibagaza, Nihat Kahveci and Mati Fernández will be out for this match. He admits that whilst they arrive at a bad time though there are others who can step in and do the job.
"All the injuries arrive at a bad time and in the case of Eguren even more so since he was in great form. However, we have players like Edmilson and Bruno who without doubt can fill in ably," he concluded.
Crew breeding competitive environment
Pellegrini Pleased With Positive Start
Improved Crew eye benchmark
The Chilean joined back in 2004 and has seen his side develop into real contenders for silverware over the years thanks to his guidance. Now they are joint top of the league after six games but he says being first is not the be all and end all, rather winning games is.
"To be leaders is not an obsession," he started, "We desire to keep winning to be at the top and don't worry about what Valencia do or if we remain first."
"We are in the seventh round [of matches] and it does not have any significance but each point that we drop the objectives do move further away," he mused today.
Next up for El Submarino Amarillo are Espanyol who beat them three nil last season in this fixture but Pellegrini insists revenge is not on the menu.
"We are not out for revenge, that is something none of us want. We go with a desire to take all three points so it helps us to continue up the table," said the Chilean.
Pellegrini's job is not being made any easier by the fact that Villarreal currently have a growing injury list and key players like Sebastián Eguren, Ariel Ibagaza, Nihat Kahveci and Mati Fernández will be out for this match. He admits that whilst they arrive at a bad time though there are others who can step in and do the job.
"All the injuries arrive at a bad time and in the case of Eguren even more so since he was in great form. However, we have players like Edmilson and Bruno who without doubt can fill in ably," he concluded.
Crew breeding competitive environment
Pellegrini Pleased With Positive Start
Improved Crew eye benchmark
La Liga Preview: Valladolid - Recreativo de Huelva
Slowly Rising
Last week's loss at the hands of Valencia has hurt the morale at the Valladolid camp, who were finally beginning to find their rhythm. Despite the loss, Valladolid put in a dominant performance with the coach getting his tactics spot on, obviously doing his homework. Coach Jose Mendilibar has asked for more attacking fullbacks and more disciplined holding midfielders.
Still, Valladolid are not expected to be battling for top four spots with the likes of Real Madrid and Villarreal, but if Mendilibar builds on his current squad, then relegation worries will be a thing of the past for this team who are slowly but surely finding their tempo. Consistency is their only problem.
The Pucela will go gung ho in the opening minutes of the game, looking to snatch that decisive early goal.
A Fresh Start
After managing just one win in two months, things seem to have hit an all time low at the Recre camp. The departure of star striker Florent Sinama Pongolle has left the team extremely limited up front. In fact, Recreativo are the least scoring team with a measly two goals, highlighting the serious lack of creativity in the middle and firepower up front. The mauling at the hands of Malaga last weekend has left their fans raging with fury, and some have asked for a change of the management as a whole.
In response to the fans ferocity, the management decided to sack Zamorano, bringing in Lucas Alcaraz, a man who they believe can bring Recreativo out of the ditch they are in. The Spaniard had a successful stint as Recre manager in 2001 through 2003 before moving to new pastures at the Sardinero. Alcaraz has pulled extra night sessions to try and get his team gel smoothly together, which will hopefully result in success on the pitch.
It's a transitional period for El Decano, and must understand that success will not be instant by any means.
TEAM NEWS
Valladolid
Mendilibar was happy with his team's performance last week, but will look to shuffle things around up front. Goitom could make a return and play as a second striker, with Ogbeche right in front of him. The ever impressive Asenjo will stand between the sticks, with Sesma as a free rolling winger.
La Liga Preview: Valladolid – Atlético Madrid
Revitalized Cunningham aiding FCD
Last week's loss at the hands of Valencia has hurt the morale at the Valladolid camp, who were finally beginning to find their rhythm. Despite the loss, Valladolid put in a dominant performance with the coach getting his tactics spot on, obviously doing his homework. Coach Jose Mendilibar has asked for more attacking fullbacks and more disciplined holding midfielders.
Still, Valladolid are not expected to be battling for top four spots with the likes of Real Madrid and Villarreal, but if Mendilibar builds on his current squad, then relegation worries will be a thing of the past for this team who are slowly but surely finding their tempo. Consistency is their only problem.
The Pucela will go gung ho in the opening minutes of the game, looking to snatch that decisive early goal.
A Fresh Start
After managing just one win in two months, things seem to have hit an all time low at the Recre camp. The departure of star striker Florent Sinama Pongolle has left the team extremely limited up front. In fact, Recreativo are the least scoring team with a measly two goals, highlighting the serious lack of creativity in the middle and firepower up front. The mauling at the hands of Malaga last weekend has left their fans raging with fury, and some have asked for a change of the management as a whole.
In response to the fans ferocity, the management decided to sack Zamorano, bringing in Lucas Alcaraz, a man who they believe can bring Recreativo out of the ditch they are in. The Spaniard had a successful stint as Recre manager in 2001 through 2003 before moving to new pastures at the Sardinero. Alcaraz has pulled extra night sessions to try and get his team gel smoothly together, which will hopefully result in success on the pitch.
It's a transitional period for El Decano, and must understand that success will not be instant by any means.
TEAM NEWS
Valladolid
Mendilibar was happy with his team's performance last week, but will look to shuffle things around up front. Goitom could make a return and play as a second striker, with Ogbeche right in front of him. The ever impressive Asenjo will stand between the sticks, with Sesma as a free rolling winger.
La Liga Preview: Valladolid – Atlético Madrid
Revitalized Cunningham aiding FCD
Henry: I Cannot Believe Iniesta Is Not Up For The Balon D'Or
Thierry Henry has won his fair share of personal awards in his career and today he expressed his disbelief that one of his team-mates is not up for the coveted Balon D'Or this year.
Speaking about Andrés Iniesta the Frenchman said that even though the goal he scored against Belgium was quite amazing he was not surprised as he sees it every day in training.
"Andrés is a player who does his work in a quiet way, without noise, and people do not note it," he started, "I already knew before I came here that he is a footballer, who when he is on the pitch, makes Barcelona play better."
"I am not surprised to see the goal against Belgium, I have the luck to see it every day and there are few players in the middle of the pitch who can do that. I cannot believe he is not in the list of candidates for the Balon D'Or," said Henry.
Iniesta has indeed been one of Barcelona's best players over the past few seasons but Henry on the other hand has struggled to adapt to life in Catalonia. He has been played out of position and left on the bench and today he tried to put an end to the debate about his favoured position.
"I prefer to play in the middle [of a three-pronged attack] but I can play and participate on the left wing. I have played for France there just like I have here. The debate has to stop," he requested.
Henry looks like being a starter for Barcelona's game away at Athletic Bilbao and he seems to have a lot of admiration for the atmosphere at San Mamés.
"I have played a game their and the atmosphere was very hot. It is never easy to play away games after internationals but we still have to go and win," he concluded.
Schelotto continues torrid play in win over Revs
Player Ratings: Barcelona 3-1 Sporting
Speaking about Andrés Iniesta the Frenchman said that even though the goal he scored against Belgium was quite amazing he was not surprised as he sees it every day in training.
"Andrés is a player who does his work in a quiet way, without noise, and people do not note it," he started, "I already knew before I came here that he is a footballer, who when he is on the pitch, makes Barcelona play better."
"I am not surprised to see the goal against Belgium, I have the luck to see it every day and there are few players in the middle of the pitch who can do that. I cannot believe he is not in the list of candidates for the Balon D'Or," said Henry.
Iniesta has indeed been one of Barcelona's best players over the past few seasons but Henry on the other hand has struggled to adapt to life in Catalonia. He has been played out of position and left on the bench and today he tried to put an end to the debate about his favoured position.
"I prefer to play in the middle [of a three-pronged attack] but I can play and participate on the left wing. I have played for France there just like I have here. The debate has to stop," he requested.
Henry looks like being a starter for Barcelona's game away at Athletic Bilbao and he seems to have a lot of admiration for the atmosphere at San Mamés.
"I have played a game their and the atmosphere was very hot. It is never easy to play away games after internationals but we still have to go and win," he concluded.
Schelotto continues torrid play in win over Revs
Player Ratings: Barcelona 3-1 Sporting
Friday, October 17, 2008
Torres Out For Up To Four Games
Torres was forced off the field early in Spain's World Cup qualifier against Belgium on Wednesday, and he is now set to miss the Reds' upcoming clashes against Wigan Athletic, Atletico Madrid, Chelsea and Portsmouth.
Ryan Babel was also injured while on duty with Holland, but the 21-year-old's ankle problem is less severe and he is still a remote possibility to feature against the Latics this weekend.
"A scan on Fernando Torres has shown a tear in his right hamstring which will sideline the player for between 10 and 15 days," Liverpool spokesman Ian Cotton told the club's official website.
"Ryan Babel has sprained his left ankle and is a major doubt for Wigan on Saturday."
Rafael Benitez is livid that he will be without his most dangerous attacker during such a crucial period. David N'Gog and Dirk Kuyt are favourites to deputise up front, although Hungarian starlet Krisztian Nemeth could also be in the frame.
Torres: There Is A Great Campaign Behind Casillas
‘Old man’ Gaven sees more to learn
Emery: No Risks With Villa
Ryan Babel was also injured while on duty with Holland, but the 21-year-old's ankle problem is less severe and he is still a remote possibility to feature against the Latics this weekend.
"A scan on Fernando Torres has shown a tear in his right hamstring which will sideline the player for between 10 and 15 days," Liverpool spokesman Ian Cotton told the club's official website.
"Ryan Babel has sprained his left ankle and is a major doubt for Wigan on Saturday."
Rafael Benitez is livid that he will be without his most dangerous attacker during such a crucial period. David N'Gog and Dirk Kuyt are favourites to deputise up front, although Hungarian starlet Krisztian Nemeth could also be in the frame.
Torres: There Is A Great Campaign Behind Casillas
‘Old man’ Gaven sees more to learn
Emery: No Risks With Villa
Tevez: I'm Staying
Speculation over the future of Argentine forward Carlos Tevez has been rife over the last week.
Reports have suggested that Real Madrid are waiting to pounce on the 24-year-old should United get into a muddle over his permanent capture.
The Old Trafford club must pay €37 million to Tevez's management company MSI, or risk losing him.
Meanwhile, the player was pointing the finger at Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson. He was quoted as saying that the Scot is failing to get the best out of him.
Regardless, United remain bullish with regards to their long-term plans for the former West Ham man. Now, Tevez has also come out of his closet, doing what Cristiano Ronaldo failed to do this summer past: denying an exit strategy.
"I have not given any interviews saying I have any difficulties in the Premier League," he said via his representative. "I have absolutely no idea where the reports came from.
"I just want to help the team win - that's my prime objective.
"I am not worried where I play on the pitch, nor do I feel any extra pressure playing in the Premier League compared to other leagues."
Mourinho Vows To Take Calcio Back To The Top
McBride set to make Fire debut
Reports have suggested that Real Madrid are waiting to pounce on the 24-year-old should United get into a muddle over his permanent capture.
The Old Trafford club must pay €37 million to Tevez's management company MSI, or risk losing him.
Meanwhile, the player was pointing the finger at Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson. He was quoted as saying that the Scot is failing to get the best out of him.
Regardless, United remain bullish with regards to their long-term plans for the former West Ham man. Now, Tevez has also come out of his closet, doing what Cristiano Ronaldo failed to do this summer past: denying an exit strategy.
"I have not given any interviews saying I have any difficulties in the Premier League," he said via his representative. "I have absolutely no idea where the reports came from.
"I just want to help the team win - that's my prime objective.
"I am not worried where I play on the pitch, nor do I feel any extra pressure playing in the Premier League compared to other leagues."
Mourinho Vows To Take Calcio Back To The Top
McBride set to make Fire debut
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