Liverpool FC striker Luis Suarez 'one of the best in the world' - Brendan Rodgers

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said Luis Suarez is one of the best strikers in the world after the Uruguayan scored four times in Wednesday night's 5-1 win at home to Norwich.

Liverpool returned to the top four of the Premier League with the win over Norwich, and Suarez has now scored 11 goals in his last four appearances against the Canaries.

The former Ajax forward also became the first player in Premier League history to score three hat-tricks against one club, and Rodgers told reporters after the impressive performance: "I always like to talk about the team but I think you've got to hold Luis up as one of the best strikers in the world.

"It was an incredible performance. It was sheer brilliance, it was a joy for me to watch the team, I thought technically we were very good but to witness that, it was a remarkable individual performance.

"The modern-day world-class operators, it's all about their numbers and what they produce and you look at the goals he scored and the assist he made, it was a pleasure to watch."

Rodgers also believes Suarez can get even better, adding: "You look at Luis, he's only 26 and I really think he'll make improvements to his game over the coming years.

"He's probably the happiest he's been here, you look at him and the maturity in his performance.

"I think this club suits him perfectly and I still think his best years are going to be here because of everything.

"The profile of the club, the connection with the supporters, Anfield itself, you can see it's a hand in glove fit for him and the type of football we're trying to play allows him to operate in those spaces we create."

Chelsea FC target Sergio Ramos insists he is happy at Real Madrid CF

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos insists he is not considering leaving the club after being linked with Chelsea and Manchester City.

A number of reports last week claimed Ramos has fallen out with Real president Florentino Perez over a wage dispute and is looking to leave the Bernabeu.

Reports in the British press at the weekend claimed Chelsea and Man City were both considering January bids for the 27-year-old, but he insists he has a good relationship with Perez, and wants to stay in the Spanish capital.

"I’ll repeat, our differences were nothing to do with the contract," Ramos was quoted as saying by AS.

"I’ve got three years here and I’m relaxed and I’m not looking to leave.

"I feel privileged and if I could, I would retire here. 

"I’m not going to talk about the differences between us because it’s a personal matter, but I can say we have a great relationship. I’ll never forget who the president here is and I know he’s in charge."

Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon Speaks On ASUU Strike This is serious! Can anyone simplify this for us? "This ASUU strike is a miasma of a deprecable apothesis of an hemorrhaging plutocracy, cascadingly oozing into a malodorous excrescence of mobocracy. With all termagant ossifying proclivities of a kakistocracy, our knowledgia centura is enveloped in a paraphlegic crinkum crankum. Therefore ASUU, cest in dejavu, dejavu peret ologomabia."

FIFA Rankings: Eagles Drop Three Places Despite defeating Ethiopia to pick ticket to the 2014 World Cup and also playing a 2-2 draw with former world champion, Italy, the Super Eagles slipped three places from 33rd to 36th in the latest FIFA Rankings released Thursday. The African champions however remained rooted to the same fourth position in the continent with 710 points behind the trio of Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Algeria who all interestingly will be flying the continent’s flag at next year’s World Cup in Brazil having secured tickets in the recently concluded World Cup Play-offs. Ivory Coast remains the highest ranked team in Africa and 17th in the world on 918 points. The Black Stars are 24th in the world with 849 points, while Algeria third in Africa are 26th in the world on 800 points. Spain head the global list, ahead of Germany, Argentina, Colombia and Portugal. All teams in the top 20, except for Ukraine (18th, up 2), have booked their tickets to Brazil next year and just three teams outside of the top 50 have managed to qualify for the 2014 showpiece, namely Cameroon (51st, up 8), Korea Republic (54th, up 2) and Australia (59th, down 2).

Moses Demands More Playing Time at Liverpool Victor Moses has shown his frustration at the failure of Liverpool to give him a regular start in the first team, and has demanded more playing time. The Super Eagles winger, who was speaking with a local paper, Liverpool Echo, delivered a veiled threat to team manager, Brendan Rodgers. “The main thing is to be on the pitch and enjoy football. That’s always been on my mind – to play games. “There was only a little spell at Wigan when I first signed there and I wasn’t in the team every week. “I’ve always gone to places for the football, places where I’m going to play. By playing, you learn, and I think I can develop a lot more but I realise to achieve that I’ve got to play as much as possible,” stressed the former Wigan star. Moses is the third Liverpool player to publicly complain about lack of game time. At the beginning of November, Daniel Agger also made the same complaint on Danish television. A couple of days after Agger, Luis Alberto publicly revealed his frustration with his status as a perennial bench-warmer onLFC.com. Sebastian Coates has also gone public on his disappointment with life at Anfield, stating his frustration in a March interview with Uruguayan newspaper El Observador. Moses had stated on arrival at Anfield, that he left Chelsea because his first team chances were limited.

ASUU dismisses FG’s threat to sack lecturers The Academic Staff Union of Universities has said the Federal Government’s December 4 ultimatum issued to universities teachers to return to the classrooms is a clear indication that the government is not committed to implementing any of the resolutions it reached with the union. While reacting to the threat of the Federal Government to sack the lecturers if they fail to call off their five-month strike by Wednesday nest week, ASUU National Treasurer, Dr. Ademola Aremu, said the union was shocked that the government could have such plan when there was a shortfall of 60,000 lecturers in Nigerian universities, owing to the government’s failure to employ enough teachers. He added that the threat would not hinder the union’s determination to ensure that Nigerian universities were well funded. He said, “It is a pity if the Federal Government is not willing to perfect the resolutions reached with the union. This is why we find it difficult to trust our leaders by their words. How can someone be threatening to sack lecturers when universities are already short-staffed by almost 60,000? We are not in a military era. The military tried it and failed. This one will fail again. They can re-open the schools. ASUU did not shut the universities; it was the school management that ordered the students to go back home.” ASUU added that the FG was wasting the time of Nigerians and youths in the country by failing to perfect the resolutions so that classes could resume in the schools. Making reference to the failure of the government to honour the agreements it entered with resident doctors and health workers after they suspended their strikes, the union said it had reasons to be wary of the government, adding that the threat was an insult to the sensibilities of Nigerians who were waiting for the government for a positive reaction. “With the latest action, the government has shown that it is not committed to all it has been saying. We are saying that since we agreed at the meeting that the sum of N200bn is for 2012 and 2013 revitalisation, the government should deposit same in the Central Bank of Nigerian. We are already in November and December is around the corner. If they don’t do that now, when do they want to do it?” Aremu said.

Federal Government gives ASUU One-Week Ultimatum to Call Off Strike It seems students of Federal Government institutions will be heading back to school soon. TheFederal Governmenthas given theAcademic Staff Union of Universities(ASUU) one week ultimatum to call off the ongoing strike. It began on Monday 1st July 2013 over the non implementation of a 2009 agreement with the FG. The acting Minister of Education Nyesom Wikegave the directive today Thursday 28th November 2013 in Abuja, while speaking with media representatives. Be Sociable, Share!

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini insists Sergio Aguero is not injured after he was substituted at half-time against Viktoria Plzen. Aguero opened the scoring from the penalty spot in City’s 4-2 UEFA Champions League victory over the Czech club on Wednesday, but was replaced for the second 45 minutes by Jesus Navas. And manager Pellegrini revealed the 25-year-old striker was only ever going to play the first half. “Aguero hasn’t any problems,” he said. “He knew from the beginning he was just going to play 45 minutes.” Joe Hart also made his return to first-team action against Plzen, having not featured since the end of October, but Pellegrini refused to be drawn on whether the England goalkeeper would remain in the side for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Swansea City. “I think Joe Hart played very well,” he continued. “I didn’t expect that he would have to work so much during the game because I think this is the match when the other team, including Champions League and Premier League, had the most chances to score. “Now we are talking about the Premier League. I repeat, I think Joe did a very good performance.” City are already through to the last 16 and sit three points behind Group D leaders and defending champions Bayern Munich with one match – against the Germans – left to play.

How Arsenal FC can bounce back from Man Utd defeat

Losing at Old Trafford always hurts for Arsenal supporters,
particularly considering they have now lost their last eight
fixtures there in all competitions and haven’t picked up a
victory at Manchester United since 2006.
Flying high in the league, Sunday’s 1-0 loss allowed other
title challengers to gain some ground on The Gunners – not
least the opponents themselves, Manchester United.
But it’s by no means the end of the world for Arsenal. They
must remember that despite the loss, they are still leading the
way in the Premier League. It’s their first loss in the league
since the opening day defeat at the hands of Christian Benteke
and Aston Villa, and they still look like the team to beat in the
top division. There’s no shame in losing to the Champions.
It’s also vital that the supporters remember that this Arsenal
squad was without many key players. Had Per Mertesacker
been on hand to organise the defence as he does so well on a
weekly basis, Robin Van Persie may not have had the chance
to score that goal from a set piece. Had Tomas Rosicky been
available to attempt to create something from nothing as he
so often does, Arsenal may not have been so frustrated in
their attempts to unlock the Manchester United defence.
Then there are players like Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-
Chamberlain, who The Gunners have been missing for the vast
majority of the season so far. Even players like Mesut Ozil and
Jack Wilshere weren’t fully fit and so weren’t able to
contribute the way we know they can during Sunday’s clash.
When these players are fully fit and Wenger finally has a full
squad at his disposal, players will be able to fit into their
positions more comfortably also. Ramsey was pushed out
wide on Sunday’s match simply due to the lack of players
who could play out there, despite the fact he has been so
effective in the centre of the park this season. Wilshere has
had to do the same earlier on in the season.
Arsenal really struggled to get anyone behind Manchester
United’s defence – there was nobody making runs from
midfield beyond the lone frontman Oliver Giroud. Ramsey and
Wilshere can do this from midfield, whereas Ozil and Flamini
are less likely to make those driving runs forward into the
space, as they both like to receive the ball into feet and make
the creative pass themselves.
Arsene Wenger has claimed that nerves contributed to
Arsenal’s performance too. He said himself: "We were too
nervous in the first half. We haven’t won for a long time here
too."
Such nerves and such stats will not apply for Arsenal in other
games. The nerves will ease as the confidence arrives, and
the confidence will come with winning more games, and
playing more games against top opposition. Arsenal still have
a relatively inexperienced squad, and those that do have
experience at top level, such as Santi Cazorla and Mesut Ozil
generally have the majority of it playing away from the
Premier League. They’ll get used to these big game occasions
in time.
Arsenal have come through their toughest patch of fixtures so
far this season with two disappointing results and two
excellent ones, and can now look forward to a run of winnable
fixtures. Four of their next five games in all competitions come
at The Emirates stadium.
If they rebuild some momentum with another run of victories,
they can still head into a difficult Christmas period high in
high spirits and looking to challenge for that elusive Premier
League title.

Man Utd goalkeeper David De Gea says criticism has made him stronger

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea believes that his
shaky start at the club has helped him become a better
player.
De Gea firmly established himself as United's No. 1 last
season after a tough start at Old Trafford following his move
from Atletico Madrid in 2011, and although David Moyes' side
have been less than convincing so far this season, the
Spaniard has been one of their most consistent performers.
"They were difficult times. It was hard for me," he told The
Sun .
"It wasn't easy hearing criticism but I tried to use it to
motivate me and make stronger.
"I like to think that from bad things you can derive good
results."
De Gea also admitted that he found it difficult to move away
from Madrid at such a young age, revealing that he felt the
weight of expectation following his £17.8million move to
United.
"I was very young," the 22-year-old added.
"I had arrived at a new club from another country, I was
learning a whole new language, I was adapting to a new style
of football and new team-mates.
"That's a lot to take in and I think it's natural that it will take
a little bit of time to settle."

Man Utd target Marco Reus has buy-out clause admit Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund have confirmed that Marco Reus, who is
reportedly a January target for Manchester United, has a buy-
out clause in his contract.
Reus has been linked with Arsenal and Real Madrid
throughout 2013, but on Tuesday, The Times reported that
United boss David Moyes is weighing up an ambitious move
for the midfielder, as part of a deal that could lead to Shinji
Kagawa returning to the Bundesliga club.
And Dortmund chief Hans-Joachim Watzke has confirmed the
highly-rated 24-year-old does have a release clause his
contract at the Westfalenstadion.
"Marco Reus possesses a release clause option in his current
contract at our club," Watzke told SPORT1media .
"He could leave our club due to that. He is, however, the only
player in our first team squad that has such a contract
clause."
Reus, who is under contract with Dortmund until 2017, is
believed to be available for around £30million.
Dortmund recently confirmed their interest in re-signing
Kagawa, who has had little opportunity to operate in his
preferred central position under Moyes this season.

Chelsea FC midfielder Ramires plays down talk of Real Madrid CF move

Chelsea midfielder Ramires insists he is happy at the club as
he continues to be linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Former Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti, now in charge at Real, is
rumoured to be keen on luring the Brazil international at some
point next year.
However, Ramires has reiterated that he is happy at Stamford
Bridge, and maintains any transfer would come as a result of
Chelsea's desire to sell, rather than his own desire to leave
west London.
"I see the interest of Real Madrid as recognition of my good
work in Europe, but I'm under contract with Chelsea and it
would be unethical of me to comment," Ramires
told Sambafoot .
"For the moment, these are only rumours.
"I am very happy here. I am respected and part of the club's
history.
"If I leave, Chelsea would have to make the decision. Chelsea
are one of the biggest clubs in the world and I have realised
my dream here."
Ramires did admit, however, that a return to his homeland at
some point in his career is on the cards.
"Everyone knows my admiration for Cruzeiro. Along with
Joinville, they are my favourite team in Brazil," he added.
"I watch their games from London and the team has played
very well this season. I hope it will continue like that.
"I hope to wear the new Cruzeiro jersey before ending my
career."

Ba to Arsenal FC? Gundogan to Man Utd? Dembele to Liverpool FC? Tuesday's transfer round-up

Tuesday's round up of the top transfer stories from the past
24 hours...
- Arsenal could make a shock £15million bid for Chelsea
striker Demba Ba in January, according to the Daily Star .
- Chelsea's interest in Max Meyer has been confirmed by
Schalke, with the club's sporting director Horst Heldt
telling Kicker : "There is no official offer from Chelsea. But I
have heard of the interest."
- Liverpool have joined the chase for Fulham’s emerging
French striker Moussa Dembele, according to the Daily Mirror .
- Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has emerged
as a target for Arsenal and Manchester United, according to
the Daily Star .
- Porto have admitted that Eliaquim Mangala could be sold
for the right price as Chelsea and Manchester United continue
to be linked with the defender.
- Thiago Motta, who has been linked with Chelsea and
Juventus, has refused to rule out leaving Paris Saint-Germain .
"I'm fine in Paris but I want to be seen as important," Motta
was quoted as saying by Tuttosport.
"If not, we'll look for an alternative solution."
- Barcelona star Lionel Messi could move to the Premier
League in the next few years, according to Manchester City
striker Alvaro Negredo.
"I could see someone like Messi coming to England and
following players like David Silva, Juan Mata, Santi Cazorla,
David De Gea and myself. He could play well in any league in
the world," Negredo was quoted as saying by the Daily Mirror.
"Maybe in two or five years he will get bored with La Liga,
want a change and come over here. The Premier League is the
best place to be for the world's top stars. Having been here
for a few months, it is better than I thought it would be. Your
expectations go up here."

Chelsea FC renew interest in Radamel Falcao

Chelsea will reportedly make a renewed attempt to sign
Radamel Falcao next year.
Falcao was a target for a number of top clubs from across
Europe, and was widely believed to be Chelsea's top transfer
target, before he signed for Monaco during the summer in a
deal worth around €60million.
The last transfer window also saw Manchester United linked
with the 27-year-old, along with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
Real are still believed to be keen on signing Falcao, but
according to the Daily Mirror, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho
will watch the forward in action for Colombia against Belgium
on Thursday night as he considers tabling a bid at some point
next year.
According to Tuesday's report, Mourinho is weighing up
bidding £60million - which would be a British transfer record -
either in January or next summer as he looks to land a top
striker after missing out on Manchester United's Wayne
Rooney during the last transfer window.
Speaking last month, Falcao insisted he is happy at Monaco,
but refused to rule out the possibility of a move after being
linked with a move to Madrid.
"All I can do is thank Florentino for his words but I have to
respect my current club Monaco, who have made me feel very
good and I am very happy," he said at a promotional event in
Bogota.
"It doesn't seem right to talk about Real Madrid's possible
interest at the moment out of respect for the institution to
which I am contracted to as of today."

Man Utd keen on Alberto Moreno to replace Patrice Evra

Manchester United are reportedly showing interest in
Sevilla's Alberto Moreno as a candidate to replace Patrice
Evra next season.
Evra, who is out of contract next summer, recently hinted that
his future may lie away from Old Trafford.
And according to Estadio Deportivo , the Red Devils are keen
on signing 21-year-old Moreno, who recently won his first cap
for Spain, as a replacement for the Frenchman.
Moreno, who has reportedly also caught the eye of Real
Madrid in recent months, is under contract until 2018 and is
rumoured to have a buy-out clause set at around £25million.
Speculation about Evra's future in Manchester has been
ongoing for several weeks after he hinted that he could be
ready to leave the club.
The France international last month revealed that "Manchester
United would like me to finish my career there, but this is
something personal."
United boss David Moyes responded by insisting he has a
very high opinion of the left-back.
"I don't know how you see Patrice in France but in
Manchester we have a very high opinion of him," Moyes
told L'Equipe .
"He has been a great figure in the dressing room since I have
been at the club."
Earlier this season, Moyes had insisted that United's
deadline-day pursuit of Leighton Baines and Fabio Coentrao
was an attempt to help Evra rather than push him out of the
Old Trafford exit door.
But the 32-year-old recently told Telefoot when asked whether
he was concerned that his contract is due to expire next year:
"No, [I'm] not at all [concerned].
"It is a personal thing.
"It is not that Manchester United do not want me to sign a
new contract. This whole thing is personal.
"Manchester United would like me to finish my career there,
but this is something personal."

FC Barcelona star Lionel Messi working hard to recover from injury

Barcelona star Lionel Messi says he is working hard to
recover from injury after being ruled out for up to eight
weeks with a tear in his left hamstring.
Messi, who has been plagued by injuries throughout 2013,
limped out of Sunday's La Liga game against Real Betis, and
on Monday the Spanish giants confirmed that the Argentina
international is set to be out for between six to eight weeks
with the injury.
The 26-year-old, who had missed games towards the end of
last season with a hamstring problem, had to be substituted
against Atletico Madrid in August with a left thigh problem. He
also injured his thigh against Almeria in September.
And Messi has now revealed his disappointment at being
sidelined yet again.
"As many of you know, over the next few weeks I will be
working full-time on the recovery of this new injury, for me it
is a pity not to play with my team right now," he wrote on his
Facebook page.
"Now what is most important is to recover well to help my
team-mates and give back all the support you have given to
me in the best way I know how to do, playing football. Thank
you for your messages!"
Messi is likely to miss games against Granada, Villarreal and
Getafe, as well as both legs of the Copa del Rey clash with FC
Cartagena, and upcoming Champions League group games
against Ajax and Celtic.
He will also miss the upcoming international friendlies against
Ecuador and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Ex-Mourinho understudy Karanka unveiled as Middlesbrough boss

The former Real Madrid assistant coach replaces Tony
Mowbray as the Championship side's manager, having agreed
a two-and-a-half year contract at the Riverside Stadium
Middlesbrough have appointed former Real Madrid assistant
coach Aitor Karanka as their new manager.
The former right-hand man to Jose Mourinho will begin work
at the Riverside Stadium immediately after agreeing a two-
and-a-half year deal at the club.
Karanka, who was Mourinho's No.2 in Spain, is
Middlesbrough's first-ever foreign coach and is excited to be
working at a club recommended to him by the Portuguese.
"It's a very important day for me - it's my new job," he
enthused to reporters.
"I think it's the best thing in the world because I find a club
like a family, with a big stadium, big supporters.
"It's my time. I have worked with Jose Mourinho and he was
a great influence, I learned a lot from him. He's a person who
has helped me for months I always speak with him and he
told me to come here."
Middlesbrough's chief executive, Neil Bausor, told the club's
official website: "We are delighted that Aitor has decided to
further his coaching career with Middlesbrough as our head
coach.
"He brings with him some fantastic experience as a player and
as a talented young coach. We are all excited about working
with him."
Karanka played for Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid and Colorado
Rapids in a career spanning 15 years before becoming
Madrid's assistant in 2010.

Enyeama extends clean slates to eleven matches in Ligue 1

The Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper has remained unbeaten in goal for his French league outfit following another impressive showing at Guingamp Super Eagles goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama continued his inspiring run in the French club, Lille on Saturday night as they forced hosts Guingamp to a goalless draw at a rain soaked Stade du Roudourou. It was the former Maccabi Tel Aviv safest pair of hand’s 13th league appearance for René Girard's side as he thwarted clear-cut chances by the hosts to secure maximum points against his injury-depleted team. One of his biggest highlight of the night was a brilliant save in the 60th minute off Mustapha Yatabaré's header following a cross whipped by Reynald Lemaître from the left hand side of Lille’s defence before blocking Fatih Atik's attempt to break the deadlock. Last weekend, Enyeama had kept out Radamel Falcao and his team-mates time and again when his club hosted AS Monaco in a week 12 encounter. The last time he conceded a goal was against Nice which they lost 2-0 at home in a week 5 encounter. Lille are currently second with 27 points on the French league table. PSG keeper Salvatore Sirigu holds the record in the French Ligue 1 for the longest time without conceding a goal. His record lasted from November 17, 2012 to February 8, 2013.

Italy announce squad for Nigeria friendly

Coach Cesare Prandelli has named his 28-man team that will
confront Nigeria in an international friendly billed for Fulham's
Craven Cottage stadium, London on November 18.
The Europeans will play Germany in Milan on November 15
before engaging Keshi's men who will also take on the Walia
Antelopes in a crunch World Cup qualifying play-offs in
Calabar on Saturday, November 16.
THE FULL SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Federico Marchetti
(Lazio), Salvatore Sirigu (PSG/FRA).
Defenders: Ignazio Abate (AC Milan), Federico Balzaretti (AS
Roma), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus), Christian Maggio
(Napoli), Angelo Ogbonna (Juventus), Manuel Pasqual
(Fiorentina), Andrea Ranocchia (Inter), Domenico Criscito
(Zenit St Petersbourg/RUS).
Midfielders: Antonio Candreva (Lazio), Daniele De Rossi (AS
Roma), Alessandro Diamanti (Bologna), Alessandro Florenzi
(Roma), Emanuele Giaccherini (Sunderland/ENG), Claudio
Marchisio (Juventus), Riccardo Montolivo (AC Milan), Thiago
Motta (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Marco Parolo (Parma),
Andrea Pirlo (Juventus), Andrea Poli (AC Milan).
Strikers: Mario Balotelli (AC Milan), Alessio Cerci (Torino),
Alberto Gilardino (Genoa), Lorenzo Insigne (Napoli), Pablo
Osvaldo (Southampton/ENG), Giuseppe Rossi (Fiorentina).

Netherlands can win the World Cup, insists Robben

Arjen Robben insists the Netherlands have the ability to win
the 2014 World Cup and will be going to Brazil next summer
determined to lift the trophy.
The Oranje were runners-up in the 2010 tournament after
Andres Iniesta's goal won the final for Spain in South Africa,
but Bayern Munich ace Robben is fully confident his side can
go one better this time around.
"Our final goal is to become world champions in Brazil," the
29-year-old told reporters.
"It's a realistic target and we won't go there with the attitude
to just see how far we can get.
"We must survive the group stage and if we progress, the
world title is our dream."
Louis van Gaal's side find themselves in a rich vein of form
after going unbeaten for 15 games stretching back over a year,
but Robben has warned their run will be put to the test in
upcoming friendlies against Colombia and Japan.
"These matches are not about getting points, but they're
important," he stressed.
"These are two countries you can end up playing against in
Brazil. Most people talk about Colombia, because they're that
high on the Fifa ranking, but maybe Japan is even an more
difficult opponent.
"I know a lot of players from the Bundesliga. Besides that,
[Keisuke] Honda and [Shinji] Kagawa are very good players."
Robin van Persie's withdrawal from the squad means Robben
is set to start the friendlies in Genk and Amsterdam as
captain, and the former Chelsea winger admits he will be
proud to take on the armband.
"It's an honour to be captain of your country," he added. "It's
the most beautiful thing.
"I don't feel extra pressure, maybe a bit of positive pressure. I
know what people are expecting from me. I won't change
because of the captaincy. I will stay myself."

Neymar, Ibrahimovic listed for best goal honour

Barcelona attacker Neymar and PSG striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic are among the 10 nominees up for Fifa’s Puskas award for the best goal of the year, Goal reports.

As part of the lead up to the annual Ballon d’Or ceremony, 10 of the top strikes over the past 12 months are available for football fans to choose from, with the options to be whittled down to the three most popular on December 9.

Neymar gets the nod for his strike against Japan for Brazil at this summer’s Confederations Cup and he could become the first player to win the award twice.

Sweden forward Ibrahimovic is also on the list for his outrageous overhead kick from over 25 yards out against England in a friendly last November.

The only major European league on the list is Serie A, which has two entrants: Antonio Di Natale for an acute volley in Udinese’s clash with Chievo in April, and Bologna’s Panagiotis Kone with his acrobatic, twisting volley against Napoli.

Mikel, Moses, others hit Calabar

Mikel, Moses, others hit Calabar


Mikel Obi, Shola Ameobi, Bright Dike, John Ogu, and James Okwuosa are some of the Super Eagles players that had arrived in Calabar by noon on Tuesday for the World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia’s Walya Antelopes. The match is billed for the U.J. Esuene Stadium on Saturday.

A close associate of Mikel spoke with The PUNCH soon after the Chelsea midfielder arrived at the Transcorp Metropolitan Hotel where the Eagles are accommodated.

He said, “Yes he’s (Mikel) in town now. We just arrived at the hotel just a while ago.”

Chippa United of South Africa central defender, Okwuosa, was however the first player amongst those based outside Nigeria to arrive in Calabar. But by midday Victor Moses had joined the first set. The Liverpool attacker got in just ahead of Godfrey Oboabona and Nnamdi Oduamadi. Elderson Echejile joined his mates while they were already at training at the stadium, Eagles managers confirmed.

It is hoped that Wednesday training would record a full house of all the players called-up for the game. Officials of the Nigeria Football Federation have largely blamed flight problems as the major cause for the delay for the players heading to Calabar from Lagos and Abuja. But The PUNCH check with a Calabar-based travel agent showed that it is little better getting a seat on flights this period compared to the period Eagles played against Kenya when only one airline was flying into the city as a result of problems in the Nigerian aviation industry.

And as Stephen Keshi prepares the Eagles for the last battle on the way to Brazil 2014, Ethiopian striker Getaneh Kebede has returned to the national team. The 21-year-old Bidvest Wits of South Africa player missed the first leg in Addis Ababa, which ended in victory to Nigeria, because of a knee injury. The return of the fast attacker is seen as a boost to Wayla Antelopes.

Under coach Sewinet Bishaw the player is standing as the joint top scorer. BBC correspondent in Addis Ababa confirmed that striker Saladin Seid and midfielder Shimels Bekele are also in the squad to face Nigeria. Getaneh trained on Monday along with his team-mates, who are mostly home-based players. The Ethiopians are expected to arrive in Nigeria on Thursday although they seem not too keen giving the Nigerian FA a very definite schedule.

The Eagles had defeated the Ethiopians 2-1 in the first leg of the play-offs in Addis Ababa last month. The Ethiopians need at least a 2-0 margin win over Nigeria in Calabar to secure  the ticket to Brazil while a simple draw is all the Nigerians need to book a place for the 2014 World Cup finals.

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Ten Manchester United players called up for England duty Six Manchester United players have been called up to the England senior side for friendlies against Chile and Germany next week while four youngsters have been called up to the Under-21s for their Euro 2015 qualifiers against San Marino and Finland. Smalling, Jones, Cleverley, Carrick, Rooney and Welbeck have all been called up by Roy Hodgson and Zaha, Powell, Lingard and Keane have got the call from Gareth Southgate. Given his injury problems, Welbeck may drop out of the squad and there are also fitness concerns about Carrick and Cleverley, both of whom have been sidelined this month with injuries. Rooney will lead the line in the friendlies as his fine form continues and hopefully Hodgson doesn’t use Smalling as a right-back. It will be good to see Zaha get some competitive game time and Powell has been in blistering form for Wigan so far this season, so certainly deserves to start for the Under-21s but Southgate has so far left him out of some of the matchday squads entirely. Here are the squads in full. England senior squad Goalkeepers Fraser Forster, Joe Hart, John Ruddy Defenders Leighton Baines, Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, Kieran Gibbs, Phil Jagielka, Glen Johnson,Phil Jones,Chris Smalling, Kyle Walker Midfielders Ross Barkley,Michael Carrick,Tom Cleverley, Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson, Adam Lallana, Frank Lampard, James Milner, Andros Townsend, Jack Wilshere Forwards Jermain Defoe, Rickie Lambert, Jay Rodriguez,Wayne Rooney, Daniel Sturridge,Daniel Welbeck England Under-21s Goalkeepers: Jonathan Bond, Jack Butland, George Long. Defenders: Eric Dier, Carl Jenkinson, Michael Keane, Liam Moore, Jack Robinson, Luke Shaw, John Stones. Midfielders: Nathaniel Chalobah, Will Hughes, Ravel Morrison, James Ward-Prowse. Wide: Tom Ince, Jesse Lingard, Raheem Sterling, Wilfried Zaha. Forwards: Saido Berahino, Harry Kane, Danny Ings, Nick Powell.

Benitez weighing up £7m raid on former club Chelsea for defender Azpilicueta Rafa Benitez is ready to return to Stamford Bridge for Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta. The Napoli boss is desperate for a right-back after injuries to Giandomenico Mesto and Juan Zuniga have threatened to undermine the Italian side's strong start to the season. Azpilicueta figured regularly under Benitez at Chelsea but has been on the periphery this season with Jose Mourinho preferring to play Branislav Ivanovic at right-back. Spain international Azpilicueta has vowed to fight for his place but the chance to play regularly again under Benitez will no doubt appeal. Chelsea would be reluctant to sell mid-season but may be persuaded if offers come close to the £7million they paid Marseille for the 24-year-old in August 2012. Benitez is also a big admirer of Liverpool and England defender Glen Johnson but that deal would prove more expensive.

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce eyes 'big' win over Norwich City SAM ALLARDYCE believes the match against Norwich City is bigger for West Ham than matches against the Premier League's top sides. The Hammers, who have only conceded one goal on the road this season, travel to Carrow Road on Saturday to take on the struggling Canaries. Allardyce feels that the match represents an important chance for West Ham to grab their first three points since the 3-0 victory over Tottenham in early October. The West Ham boss, however, is convinced the clash with Chris Hughton's side will be a difficult test, despite Norwich's 7-0 loss to Manchester City last weekend. Winston Reid will be unavailable for West Ham after suffering an ankle injury in training. West Ham only have one fit senior defender available in James Tomkins, with Welsh international James Collins still recovering from a hamstring injury. Andy Carroll, Ricardo Vaz Te, Mladen Petric, Matt Taylor and Alou Diarra also remain out for the Hammers. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is eager for his side to take points in their match against Norwich City

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce eyes 'big' win over Norwich City SAM ALLARDYCE believes the match against Norwich City is bigger for West Ham than matches against the Premier League's top sides. The Hammers, who have only conceded one goal on the road this season, travel to Carrow Road on Saturday to take on the struggling Canaries. Allardyce feels that the match represents an important chance for West Ham to grab their first three points since the 3-0 victory over Tottenham in early October. The West Ham boss, however, is convinced the clash with Chris Hughton's side will be a difficult test, despite Norwich's 7-0 loss to Manchester City last weekend. Winston Reid will be unavailable for West Ham after suffering an ankle injury in training. West Ham only have one fit senior defender available in James Tomkins, with Welsh international James Collins still recovering from a hamstring injury. Andy Carroll, Ricardo Vaz Te, Mladen Petric, Matt Taylor and Alou Diarra also remain out for the Hammers. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is eager for his side to take points in their match against Norwich City

Jose Mourinho lavishes praise on 'favourite player' Samuel Eto'o JOSE MOURINHO suggested that Samuel Eto'o was one of his favourite players at Chelsea after the striker scored twice to shoot down Schalke at Stamford Bridge. Samuel Eto'o was the toast of Stamford Bridge after his Chelsea double last night [EPA] Chelsea's 3-0 win keeps them top of Champions League Group E on nine points - three ahead of closest challengers Schalke. Eto'o was the star of the show for the Blues, scoring their first two goals before a late effort from Demba Ba sealed the deal. And whileEden Hazard is in Mourinho's bad books for skipping training, the former Inter Milan manager was certainly happy with Eto'o. "My favourite players are the players that win matches for me, not the ones that lose matches for me," Mourinho said. "Samuel worked with me in the best season of my career (at Inter). We won everything. So he's in a good position." My favourite players are the players that win matches for me, not the ones that lose matches for me Jose Mourinho Eto'o now has three goals for his new club following a summer switch from Anzhi Makhachkala, with Mourinho insisting the Cameroon hitman is finally hitting his stride. "He was for two years playing without big motivations and when you play without big motivations, you train without big motivations and you lose condition, and you lose sharpness, and you lose even appetite," Mourinho added. "It was not a surprise for me that he arrived here not in the best conditions after two years in Anzhi. "Now step by step he is going. He is 32 but he's a fit, slim guy. "He's not a heavy body. He's intelligent, of course, and I think goals give confidence." Jose Mourinho was all smiles with Eto'o [EPA] Chelsea now face a trip to Basle and a home clash with Steaua Bucharest as they bid to book their place in the last 16. And Mourinho is confident his side are back on track after losing to Basle in their opening group match. "We won in quite a comfortable way and it's good for us," Mourinho added. "After the Basle defeat we put ourselves in a difficult situation and it's fantastic that after the fourth fixture we have qualified, almost. Not yet." The man Eto'o replaced, Fernando Torres, faces an absence of around three weeks with an adductor injury.

Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard: Luis Suárez key to our top-four bid Steven Gerrard believes Luis Suárez is key to Liverpool’s chances of finishing in thePremier League top four this season. The Uruguay international has scored six goals in his last five top-flight games after returning from a 10-game ban for biting Branislav Ivanović in a 2-2 draw withChelsea in April. And Liverpool captain Gerrard reckons Suárez, who netted 23 Premier League strikes last season, will need to produce the goals and the performances to help the Reds seal a return to theChampions League. “His goals, his performances and his form will be the key whether we finish in the top four or not. Luis is the key,” Gerrard told Liverpool’s website. The 33-year-old Reds skipper also named Suárez as his most talented Liverpool team-mate during a distinguished 15-year-old career. “He’s out on his own,” he added. “The only player who comes close to producing what Luis has produced in a red shirt isFernando Torres, but Luis has just pipped him for me.”

Tottenham legend admits Arsenal star has been 'outstanding' this season Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has been one of the club’s most consistent players so far this season. Tottenham Hotspur legend Gary Lineker has tipped his hat in the general direction of Wojciech Szczesny. The Pole has been one of the constants in an Arsenal side which continues to go from strength to strength, leading thePremier League and making an impression in the Champions League ahead of the knock out stage.

Chelsea's Demba Ba puts himself in the shop window? #UCL Demba Ba scored his first goal of the season on Wednesday night asChelsea secured a comfortable win over Schalke 04 With Fernando Torres out of action for the next couple of weeks, Wednesday night's game against Schalke 04 and Saturday's against West Bromwich Albion have provided opportunities for Samuel Eto'o and Demba Ba. Both strikers grabbed their opportunity with two goals for starter Eto'o and one for his replacement Demba Ba. The Senegalese striker's goal was a lovely executed left foot effort on the turn which securedChelsea's 100th win in UEFA competitions. It has been a tough season so far for the formerNewcastle United striker. Eto'o and Torres have clearly been preferred by Jose Mourinho with Demba only in twoPremier League game so far. Romelu Lukaku is continuing to impress on loan at Everton too, so Ba's future doesn't look too great for the short or long-term.Premier League clubs are well aware of his capabilities and they will be plenty interested in his signature come January if Chelsea were willing to sell. Ba himself will be hoping to be given more of a chance to prove himself at the very top of European football. A hindrance to his chances is the fact that fellow striker Eto'o also showed his ability to put away a couple of chances. Mourinho is a big fan of the Cameroonian striker having managed him at Inter Milan too. He was given his chance following Torres' injury tonight and made the most of it, making it very likely that he will again start in the Premier League match against the Baggies on Saturday. Chelsea fans were certainly encouraged to see Demba Ba net his first goal of the season.

Arsenal can win Champions League - Jurgen Klopp Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp believes Arsenal can win the Champions League - if they avoid fellow German side Bayern Munich in the draw. Aaron Ramsey was on target as Arsenal beat Dortmund 1-0on Wednesday to stay top of Group F with two games left. The hosts had come into the match looking for an eighth successive home Champions League win having never lost to an English side. "They could win it - as long as they don't play Bayern Munich," Klopp said. "They are young, healthy and good technicians. They won a clever game tonight." Ramsey's strike was his 11th for Arsenal in 17 games this season. His form has been one of the factors in Arsene Wenger's side topping the Premier League after 10 games. The Gunners are five points clear of second-placed Chelsea and have scored 22 top-flight goals this season. Holders Bayern clinched their place in the knockout stagesby beating Viktoria Plzen on Tuesday. Last year's runners-up Dortmund may need to win their remaining two games to progress to the last 16. They trail both Arsenal and Italian side Napoli - their opponents in their next group game on 27 November - by three points. Klopp, who lost the Champions League finaland his side's domestic titleto Bayern Munich last season, is braced for a tense finish to the group, but confident Dortmund will survive through to the knock-out stages. "It is a very strong group and the positive news tonight is that two wins and we will qualify," he said. "We created much more today up front but they scored with their first chance of the match and we could not come back. This defeat could have been avoided. "It's definitely going to get exciting from now on." Arsenal have never won the European Cup, finishing as runners-up to Barcelona in the 2006 tournamentin their most successful campaign.

Messi drives Barca into last 16 #UCL Lionel Messi ended his mini-drought in front of goal with a brace as Barcelona qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League following a 3-1 win at home to AC Milan. The Argentina international had not scored in his last three appearances - his worst run for a year - since his equaliser in the San Siro late last month but got scored from the penalty spot after Ignazio Abate had fouled Neymar in the area. Sergio Busquets exploited a non-existent Milan defence to head in Xavi's free-kick five minutes before the interval but Barca's control was shaken by Gerard Pique's own goal with virtually the last kick of the half. However, Messi made sure of the victory seven minutes from time when he converted a return pass from Cesc Fabregas for his 65th goal in 82 Champions League appearances. Ajax's 1-0 win over Celtic courtesy of Lasse Schone's goal just after the interval closed the gap to second-placed Milan in Group H to one point. In Group G Atletico Madrid qualified for the knockout stage for the first time since the 2008-09 season - also becoming the first side to be confirmed as group winners - with a comprehensive 4-0 win at home to Austria Vienna, setting a new club record with a fourth consecutive European win. The Spanish side continued to match defending champions Bayern Munich as the only teams with 100 per cent records as Miranda, Raul Garcia and Filipe Luis gave them a 3-0 lead with Diego Costa adding the fourth eight minutes from time. Former Porto favourite Hulk scored against his old club and missed a penalty as second-placed Zenit St Petersburg remained on course to progress after a 1-1 draw. The Brazilian equalised for the Russian club after Lucho Gonzalez had given the visitors the lead midway through the first half but he missed from the spot, costing his second-placed side the chance to open a three-point cushion over their rivals. Last season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund's first home defeat to an English side thanks to Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey's solitary goal allowed the Gunners to assume top spot in Group F. However, they are ahead of Napoli only on goal difference after the Italian club won 3-2 in Marseille to make it a three-way contest for qualification. Striker Gonzalo Higuain scored twice, both times giving his side the lead with his second proving the decisive strike. Andre Ayew put the visitors in front but Gokhan Inler and Higuain scored within three minutes of each other to give Napoli a 2-1 half-time lead. Florian Thauvin pulled Marseille level just past the hour only for Higuain's intervention with 15 minutes remaining, meaning a draw in Dortmund next time out will secure qualification. Chelsea need a point from their match in Basle on match day five to secure their progress after a comfortable 3-0 win over Schalke. Basle snatched a point at home to Steaua Bucharest thanks to Giovanni Sio's 90th-minute goal after Federico Piovaccari had put the visitors ahead in the first half.

Jose Mourinho admits he dropped Eden Hazard after Chelsea star forgot the time Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will recall midfielder Eden Hazard this weekend after axing the Belgian from his squad for last night's 3-0 defeat of Schalke for disciplinary reasons. After two goals from Samuel Eto'o and a third from Demba Ba saw Chelsea enhance their position at the top of Champions League Group E, Mourinho declined to disclose the full reasons for Hazard's absence. The Blues boss revealed the Belgium forward missed a crucial training session but was reluctant to comment further. "I don't want to lie. He's not injured. He forgot the time," Mourinho said. "Let's end the story. He's a kid, kids make mistakes and fathers they have to be clever in the way they educate their sons. "He didn't play, he wanted to play. He's sad because he wanted to play. "We won without him and Saturday he's back. End of story."

Rio Ferdinand keen to cut Arsenal's lead Rio Ferdinand has told the Daily Mirrorhe has been impressed with Arsenal's start to the season but has called on his Manchester United teammates to cut their lead at the top when they meet on Sunday. Arsenal are currently five points clear at the top of the Premier League table, with United eight points behind in eighth place. The pair go head-to-head at Old Trafford this weekend, with the Gunners boosted after their 2-0 win over Liverpoolwas followed by a 1-0 victory at Borussia Dortmund. Ferdinand said: “Arsenal have been impressive. Ozil has had a big impact. He has lifted the players around him. “We’ve seen that in [Aaron] Ramsey. These types of players, like [Olivier] Giroud, they’re all doing well. If we’re going to win on Sunday, we’re going to have to play well. “But I don’t go for the fact we have to make a statement. It’s part and parcel of being a Manchester United player -- you have to win your games at home.” United have endured a mixed start under new manager David Moyes but have won their last two league matches -- and Ferdinand is demanding better from the champions. “I don’t think we’ve shown ourselves this season on a consistent basis, [and] not just in the big games,” Ferdinand said. “It is time to start putting our foot on the pedal now and motor on. “We have to do that if we want to remain in contention to win the league. To do that, we have to get points on the board and that’s what we are aiming to do. “Arsenal are in a good vein of form at the moment. They had a good performance against Liverpool. They are the team to catch. We have to make sure we are right and ready for the challenge. “We have to win every game. It doesn’t matter what game it is or whoever we play against. Whether it’s a top of the league team or not, we have to get points. “Nothing changes -- we expect to win every game we play at home.”

Michu set for four weeks out injured Michael Laudrup has confirmed Swansea City forward Michu is set to be sidelined for up to a month. Michu was substituted in the 65th minute of Swansea's 1-0 loss to rivals Cardiffon Sunday and will be absent for Thursday's trip to Kuban Krasnodar. The Spaniard, who scored 18 Premier League goals last season, is struggling with knee and ankle injuries, meaning he could be out for a number of weeks. Laudrup said in the Daily Mirror: “Michu is one of our most important players and was our top scorer last season, but he has been struggling, is not 100 percent and unfortunately he is out for three or four weeks. “He has not been at his best but that is because he has been struggling with both his knees for many weeks, but he wanted to play. “With this ankle injury, hopefully he can get both his knees sorted as well. He will be away in Spain for a few days for some injections.” Michu's fitness issues mean he is set to be unavailable for Spain's forthcoming friendly matches against Equatorial Guinea and South Africa. Laudrup said the onus now falls on the other members of his squad to chip in with goals, with summer signing Wilfried Bony likely to deputise. The Dane added: “When your top scorer is not in, the responsibility goes to others. It is always an important test.”

ASUU Set To Call Off Strike As They Get A Better Deal of N1.1trillion Details of the Monday/Tuesday marathon meeting between President Goodluck Jonathan and the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities have begun to emerge. “The meeting should be the longest that we have ever had on this crisis but I can tell you that both parties were frank all through the discussions. “The parties also showed commitment towards ending the crisis. The President in particular showed that he was serious about ending the strike and that was why he offered to release over N1tn to the universities in the next five years.” Punch gathered on Tuesday evening that a key component of the agreement reached by the parties was that the Federal Government would inject N1.1tn into public universities in the next five years.A reliable source, who made this known, also hinted that the strike would be called off anytime next week. He said the government team which was led by President Goodluck Jonathan would release N220bn yearly into the sector beginning from 2014.The source added, “The money will be released on a yearly basis at N220bn per annum beginning from 2014. For the outgoing year, the government will only release N100bn and this has been processed.” He said that the government, in order to show its commitment to a fresh pact, accepted that “the fund (N1.1tn) should domiciled at the Central Bank of Nigeria”“The money will be released on a quarterly basis to the universities. So, there won’t be any problem about funding the deal,” the source said. The National Universities Commission and the Trade Union Congress, according to him, are joint guarantors of the agreement while the Minister of Education will be the implementation officer.The source said that the government agreed among other things, to revamp the public universities by ensuring that all those issues that always led to strike were dealt with once and for all.It was learnt that the negotiating team of ASUU led by Dr. Nassir Faggae met on Tuesday to further deliberate on the deal. We gathered the ASUU team have reached an agreement to take the deal offered by Jonathan and that they will meet the larger ASUU caucus by weekend to agree and end the strike

Sergio Agüero and Alvaro Negredo epitomise new trend for twin strikers The Manchester City pair fare well in the return to favour of two-pronged attacks, with a combined tally of 21 goals Strike partnerships had become as unfashionable as the Ford Capri, pagers and Myspace. They were the inside-forward of the Premier League era, as arcane as dubbin-treated boots and the sure sign that a manager who went with two up top was a tactical dinosaur. Not anymore. At Manchester City the urbane Manuel Pellegrini fields Sergio Agüero and Alvaro Negredo, who netted all the goals in Tuesday's 5-2 hiding of CSKA Moscowto take their combined tally to 21. Across the city at the champions, David Moyes believes in the two-pronged attack of Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney, the Manchester United combo that has finished 14 times. And in Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suárez, Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers has an SAS pairing who have also registered on 14 occasions. Bar-room debate now centres on who is the best of these twosomes. A glance at the appearance stats and goal ratios offers one answer, with City and United each having 14 Premier League and Champions League outings, to the 10 of Liverpool, who are not in Europe. Of their leading tally of 21, Agüero, in 12 appearances, has contributed 13 times at a rate of one goal every 78.3 minutes, and Negredo (14 matches) has eight at 92.1 each. Although recording the same count of 14 goals as their United counterparts, Suárez and Sturridge have a fair claim for being the more deadly, as they have spent less time on the field. The Uruguayan has needed only five appearances for his six goals that have come at 74.8 minutes each, while Sturridge's eight strikes (in 10 games) have required 112.3 minutes per finish. Rooney and Van Persie lag behind as each have featured 12 times, with the Dutchman's average of one goal every 134.9 minutes, his accomplice's 140.3. On the assists table, Agüero and Negredo lead with nine, ahead of Van Persie and Rooney's six, with the three of Sturridge and Suárez again reflecting the latter's early season suspension and Liverpool's more limited games. After Pellegrini led City to the knockout stages of the Champions League with the win over CSKA, he was asked if Agüero and Negredo were better than the main men of United or Liverpool. Sticking to his style of avoiding inflammatory comments, the Chilean answered in general terms: "I think both of them have played really well, not only today but the whole season," he said. "For Sergio he is in a great moment, because he is not only scoring but his movement and his contribution to the team is important. Alvaro too. They have got the goals they deserve." The reinvigorated Samir Nasri, who alongside David Silva, supplies most of the bullets for "Beauty and the Beast", says: "For me, Agüero and Negredo are really complete together. One is small, quick, has good feet; the other one is just a beast – he can keep the ball, score goals – and the last couple of games they've banged in goals for fun." Negredo, nicknamed the Beast of Vallecas after his playing style and hometown, says of linking with Agüero: "It's been very good from the first day, and especially with both if us speaking Spanish, we understand each other well. He's a great player, and with great players it's easy to get along. From the first moment we did well together and with him, Edin [Dzeko] and myself, when we play, we understand one another. "I'm happy to score goals. For a striker it's a [big] part of the game, I am delighted to get three so quickly in a team like this [the hat-trick against CSKA] and let's hope I can get a lot more – that'd be a good sign for everybody." Negredo is clear why City are piling up the goals. "It's down to the type of players we've got, who have a lot of movement – they are not static, and movement does a lot to unsettle the other team," he says. "We're doing it well and thanks to this are getting a lot of goals." The other three of the Premier League big six still deploy a lone wolf, with Arsenal plumping for Olivier Giroud, Chelsea favouring Fernando Torres, and Tottenham Hotspur going with Roberto Soldado. The numbers suggest that if they too had a sidekick more goals would be harvested. In 13 appearances Giroud has seven every 162 minutes. Torres, in 10 games, has three at 170.7. Soldado, also in 10 matches, has managed four at 198.5. In Arsène Wenger, José Mourinho and André Villas-Boas these clubs have three of the most progressive managerial minds. But are they missing a trick in continuing with only one in attack? For differing reasons, across the continent the elite favour a strategy of solo artist or false No9, with Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Juventus heading this band, while Paris Saint Germain go with two forwards.

Don't back Arsenal for Premier League title yet Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney believes Sunday's opponents Arsenal should be assessed in March before being termed genuine title contenders. The Gunners are five points clear at the top of the Premier League after 10 games and eight points ahead of United. "We've seen before that they've been in the top two until February or March and then faded away," Rooney said. "They are doing brilliantly at the minute, so it's down to them to try and stay there and us to catch them."

Robin van Persie sets an all time Premier League goalscoring record It was a truly astounding moment in Manchester United’s history. How was it possible that we had signed our rivals best player and one of the most feared strikers in the world? Did we even need him? Many fans were sceptical as to why we signed another striker when there was such an obvious gap in the middle of the park but given that we had just lost the title on goal difference, it was clearly a mistake Sir Alex Ferguson didn’t ever want to repeat. In attack, we had Wayne Rooney whose importance could never be overstated, the rising Danny Welbeck and the goalscoring supremo of Chicharito. So, did we really need him? Of course we did. It became clear relatively quickly just how right Fergie had got this one. With injury troubles and a lack of form hampering Rooney, Van Persie came into the side and made an instant impact with his hat-trick at Southampton to signal the pure genius we had signed. Even at £24 million for an injury 29-year-old with just a year left on his contract, the contribution Van Persie made to United’s title claim made that look like small change. This year, Van Persie is breaking records for fun. Last month, he became Holland’s all-time top goalscorer after scoring three goals against Hungary to take his tally to 41 goals, which surpassed Patrick Kluivert’s previous record. Not happy with that, he has now gone one further and now holds the title as the highest Dutch-scoring player in the Premier League following his goal against Fulham after a delightful through ball from Januzaj. It puts his grand total on 128. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was the man usurped this time and now has to settle for second on the list whilst former red Ruud van Nistelrooy ended his tenure at Old Trafford with 95 league goals. Van Persie’s determination to continue breaking records at the age of 30 is what makes him a remarkable player and one we are glad Fergie decided was worth the risk. Few would have expected his impact to be so instant and important after having really only had one full season as a regular at Arsenal by the age of 28. He had the‘injury prone’ tag that has haunted many in the footballing world but has now (touch wood) managed to shake it off. His fitness has been good at United in times when others have struggled and his consistent run of games has given him the chance really establish himself as one of the best in the world. United fans will always be grateful for his commitment in leading us to number 20 and hope he can continue to do more of the same for years to come, starting with a couple of goals to end Arsenal’s run of form this weekend.

Why Aaron Ramsey is set to net in Dortmund v Arsenal Arsenal travel to Borussia Dortmund needing a positive result on Wednesday, and the Tipster is backing Aaron Ramsey to score against the Bundesliga outfit. However, our man-in-the-know is tipping Robert Lewandowski to also find the net in what should be a high-scoring game between two of Europe’s most entertaining sides. Elsewhere, he’s backing Chelseato beat Schalke by a single goal – but reckons the Blues may have to come from behind to do so. The Wales international was on the scoresheet again as Arsenal beat Liverpoolat The Emirates on Saturday. The Gunners midfielder produced what his fast becoming a trademark talismanic performance against the Reds. He’ll be looking to score his 11th goal of the season (fifth in the Champions League) against last season’s runners-up. Jürgen Klopp spoke of his admiration for Arsène Wengerin the lead up to this Champions League clash. Dortmund and the Gunners both playing attractive, attacking football, and it should make for an entertaining spectacle on Wednesday. Dortmund were 2-1 winners in north London just over two weeks ago, and there have been at least three goals in six of the German side’s last seven European games.

Man Utd’s Wayne Rooney: Robin van Perise will recover from penalty miss Wayne Rooney insisted that Robin van Persie won’t be affected by his penalty miss after 10-man Manchester Unitedwere held to a goalless draw by Real Socieded. The Netherlands international squandered the chance to help the Red Devils take a big step towards the Champions Leagueknockout stage after Ashley Young had won a second-half penalty. 30-year-old Van Persie has endured a mixed start to the season due to a string of injuries, but United forward Rooney backed his Dutch team-mate to bounce back from the hiccup at Estadio Anoeta. “Of course [everyone misses from time to time]. Most forwards in the world miss penalties. That won’t affect him, I’m sure,” Rooney is quoted as saying in theDaily Express. “We’re disappointed we didn’t get the three points as we had the best chances. Overall, however, we can see the positives. We got a clean sheet and we’re still top of the group.” United manager David Moyesadmitted the Red Devils had wasted a “big opportunity” on Tuesday night. “We had enough chances to win it, especially in the second half when we controlled most of it,” Moyes told ITV1. “But for one or two moments we were the team on top. “This was a game we should have won tonight – it was there for us to take the points and get ourselves in a really strong position. “We’ve not done it but we’re capable of doing it in the other games as well and at the moment we’re still top of the group and in a good position. But we should have take three points today. “When you get games like this, you need to take your chances and your opportunities. “We missed a big opportunity to take three points tonight, but we’re still in a good strong position.”

Liverpool’s best is yet to come, insists Luis Suárez Luis Suárez believes Liverpool haven’t hit top gear yet despite a promising start to the season. The Reds, who are currently third in thePremier League table, slipped five points behindArsenal following a 2-0 loss to the early leaders at Emirates Stadium on Saturday. Suárez has scored six goals in five games since returning from a 10-match ban for biting Branislav Ivanović last season, and the Uruguayan hopes Liverpool can break into the top four. “We’re doing well right now but we need to carry on that form into the Christmas period,” Suárez toldMatch. “I think our best is yet to come, which hopefully means well for the end of the season and our chances of making next season’sChampions League. That’s one of our aims. “It’s good to be playing well and contributing with goals, but the most important thing is getting three points every week. I wouldn’t be scoring without the help of my teammates, so thanks to them.” Suárez also heaped praise on his strike partnerDaniel Sturridge after the pair scored a combined 10 goals in five games over the past month or so. “He’s a fantastic player and strike partner, and we get on very well. “I hope we continue to score goals and win more awards, but it doesn’t matter who gets the goals or awards as long as we keep winning games.”

Arsenal to target Dortmunds Lewandowski - Wenger Manager Arsene Wenger has said the Gunners must contain Poland striker Robert Lewandowski in Wednesday's Champions League clash at Borussia Dortmund in their bid to stay top of Group F. Lewandowski netted the crucial 82nd-minute goal which sealed Dortmund's impressive 2-1 victory at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium a fortnight ago to throw the group wide open. Having become the first player to score four goals in a Champions League semi-final, Lewandowski warmed up for Arsenal with an 18-minute hat-trick in Friday's 6-1 Bundesliga rout of VfB Stuttgart. "Usually at home, Lewandowski is quite dangerous and the best way to keep him quiet is by controlling the ball," said Wenger. "We want to control possession and we want to control the game." With Arsenal, Dortmund and Napoli all level on six points, the Gunners top the table on goal difference and having lost to Dortmund in London, Wenger's side is desperate to win the return. "We definitely want to win after losing at home," said Wenger. "Dortmund is a very positive side, so at least you have a guarantee that both teams will be trying to win the game." In the build-up to the match, Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp, a heavy metal-fan, described Wenger as having organised Arsenal into a finely-tuned "orchestra" and the Frenchman continued the musical analogy. "I am not a music specialist, but Dortmund are a very good team, so we should see a good symphony," quipped Wenger. The showdown at Dortmund's Westfalenstadion promises to be a high-quality confrontation between the Premier League leaders and Borussia, who are second only to Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. Dortmund bounced back from their opening 2-1 defeat at Napoli with a 3-0 home win over Marseille before beating Arsenal in London, but Germany winger Marco Reus said Borussia can take nothing for granted. "We have improved since Napoli, but you can't compare this to the (German) league, this is the Champions League and the smallest mistake will be punished," said Reus. "It will be another 50-50 match, I believe we produced a great performance in London and will have to do so again." According to Klopp, Germany centre-back Mats Hummels is "97.5 percent" sure to miss the game with back and thigh injuries. Left-back Marcel Schmelzer could feature having played 70 minutes of the Stuttgart victory after struggling with a hamstring injury.

Arsenal to target Dortmunds Lewandowski - Wenger Manager Arsene Wenger has said the Gunners must contain Poland striker Robert Lewandowski in Wednesday's Champions League clash at Borussia Dortmund in their bid to stay top of Group F. Lewandowski netted the crucial 82nd-minute goal which sealed Dortmund's impressive 2-1 victory at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium a fortnight ago to throw the group wide open. Having become the first player to score four goals in a Champions League semi-final, Lewandowski warmed up for Arsenal with an 18-minute hat-trick in Friday's 6-1 Bundesliga rout of VfB Stuttgart. "Usually at home, Lewandowski is quite dangerous and the best way to keep him quiet is by controlling the ball," said Wenger. "We want to control possession and we want to control the game." With Arsenal, Dortmund and Napoli all level on six points, the Gunners top the table on goal difference and having lost to Dortmund in London, Wenger's side is desperate to win the return. "We definitely want to win after losing at home," said Wenger. "Dortmund is a very positive side, so at least you have a guarantee that both teams will be trying to win the game." In the build-up to the match, Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp, a heavy metal-fan, described Wenger as having organised Arsenal into a finely-tuned "orchestra" and the Frenchman continued the musical analogy. "I am not a music specialist, but Dortmund are a very good team, so we should see a good symphony," quipped Wenger. The showdown at Dortmund's Westfalenstadion promises to be a high-quality confrontation between the Premier League leaders and Borussia, who are second only to Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. Dortmund bounced back from their opening 2-1 defeat at Napoli with a 3-0 home win over Marseille before beating Arsenal in London, but Germany winger Marco Reus said Borussia can take nothing for granted. "We have improved since Napoli, but you can't compare this to the (German) league, this is the Champions League and the smallest mistake will be punished," said Reus. "It will be another 50-50 match, I believe we produced a great performance in London and will have to do so again." According to Klopp, Germany centre-back Mats Hummels is "97.5 percent" sure to miss the game with back and thigh injuries. Left-back Marcel Schmelzer could feature having played 70 minutes of the Stuttgart victory after struggling with a hamstring injury.

Real Sociedad 0 Man United 0: Van Persie blows spot kick chance while Hernandez skies sitter and Fellaini sees red This wasn’t a particularly good night for Robin van Persie or indeed Javier Hernandez. Sadly, though, it was a considerably worse one for Ashley Young. Van Persie and Hernandez will both have flown home in the early hours of this morning fretting over missed chances. Van Persie struck a post and saw a penalty hit the frame of the goal too while Hernandez contributed one of those misses that will turn up on terrible Christmas DVDs for years to come. Centre forwards miss chances, though. It is part of football. It happens. Young, however, once again finds himself charged with that most anti-social offence of diving and his reputation as a lover of one of the darkest arts in the game is becoming so deeply entrenched that one wonders if he will ever be rid of it. In fact, to call it a dark art is misleading. Many of Young’s falls and tumbles are obvious. It seems only the referees don’t see them. Tuesday night’s was not the clearest of his career. He may argue he was fouled. Certainly there did seem to be a tug on the arm by Sociedad midfielder Markel Bergara as Young attempted to go by him in the penalty area. Crucially, though, Young seemed to take another couple of steps before going over and it is unfortunately the case that his reputation does not encourage the benefit of the doubt. Certainly, the only person in the Estadio de Anoeta who appeared to see the incident as a penalty was referee Nicola Rizzoli. Many United players seemed to have turned their backs on the matter. As it happened, Van Persie couldn’t convert the penalty, Sociedad goalkeeper Claudio Bravo diving to his left to perhaps get the faintest of touches on to the post. That, however, doesn’t really matter in the wider scale of things. United manager David Moyes has already spoken to Young about going down too easily under challenges and it would appear he has more work to do yet. The 1600 United supporters who had travelled here from England will be disappointed that their team couldn’t earn the win that would have all but qualified them for the next stage of the competition in their manager’s first year. Certainly their team had enough chances. The rest of us, meanwhile, were just thankful that there was something to talk about in the second period. This had been a dull game for the first 45 minutes and it was only when Hernandez did his best impression of a man actually trying not to score that things began to get interesting early in the second period. At the weekend the Mexican has appeared to suggest that he is unhappy with life as an understudy at Old Trafford, endorsing on Twitter a suggestion by his international team-mate Carlos Vela that there were a queue of clubs waiting to sign him. Well, here, he did his chances of permanent football little good at all as he moved on to a Shinji Kagawa cross from the left in the 50th minute to side foot the simplest of chances over an open goal from only six yards. Was it actually easier to score than miss? Quite possibly. For Hernandez, that was pretty much the end of his night. He was replaced by Van Persie – as Young came on for Wayne Rooney – within a couple of minutes. For United, the plot of their evening was only about to thicken. The two replacements had been on the field for only a minute when Young eased down the left and crossed low for Van Persie on the far side. Such is the confidence of a natural goal scorer, Van Persie didn’t even consider taking a touch. Indeed his first time shot was struck crisply but it crashed against the post before bouncing away from onrushing colleagues. Soon came the penalty and another moment to rue. Late in the game Marouane Fellaini was rather harshly sent off for two bookings. Having received his first caution so early in the game it was slightly surprising that Fellaini had been left on. It had, at times, been quite a niggly sort of game. Whatever, the Belgian will now miss United’s next game at Bayer Leverkusen later this month and that is a fixture that is now taking on real significance, even if Moyes and his players do have a home game against Donetsk to end their group campaign with two weeks after that. United were the better team here on a cold and blustery night. They dominated possession for large chunks of the game in a manner that has not always been associated with them in recent years. Until the last 40 minutes, though, they just couldn’t find a killer final ball. In the first half, Kagawa – quite impressive cutting in from the left side – drove one shot across goal and wide and then thumped another in to the arms of a goalkeeper who had positioned himself well by his near post. Hernandez, meanwhile, had a half chance smothered by a defender six yards out.

Arsenal and Liverpool target Newcastle's Cabaye The Express reports that Liverpool are set to battle with Arsenal for Newcastle United’s French midfielder Yohan Cabaye in January. The 27-year-old was subject to a bid from Arsenal on transfer deadline day but was rejected by Newcastle as the valuation of the player was not met. Liverpool are now interested in the player to help maintain their impressive start to the season. Liverpool are not short of midfielders but may feel they lack quality. In the first real test for the club away from home they were outclassed by the Arsenal midfield and were deservedly beaten 2-0. Henderson missed two golden opportunities to score in the defeat and Lucas was guilty of giving away possession cheaply. Cabaye would give Liverpool much needed class and quality in midfield but the chance of Champions League football with Arsenal may be the deciding factor for Cabaye. Newcastle United value Cabaye at around £18 million and would not be willing to sell for any less. They took a hard stance with Arsenals first bid for the player and publicly criticised Arsenal for the timing of the bid and for the amount in which they offered. Arsenal bid for the player a day before Newcastle United’s away match at Manchester City, a game in which they were convincingly beaten 4-0. Alan Pardew commented after the game that Cabaye was not fit to play as his head had been turned by Arsenals bid and he wanted to join the London club. Newcastle may not want to do business with Arsenal after the handing of the first bid which could hand Liverpool the advantage in their pursuit of the player. Cabaye has been in good form since returning to the team and was instrumental in Newcastle United’s 2-0 victory over Chelsea.

Arsenal have learned mistakes from last Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund says Mertesacker The German believes the Gunners will be less naive this time around. Arsenal’s Champions League group couldn’t be much closer heading into the tie with Borussia Dortmund, with the two clubs and Napoli tied on six points. The two teams met at the Emirates Stadium a fortnight ago, when a late Robert Lewandowski strike sealed a 1-2 win for the Germans. The central defensive partnership of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker has been praised this term, but they were found wanting in that match and the German international says the Gunners have learned from their mistakes. “I think the team have to take their lesson but we are still good enough to compete with last year’s finalists,” Mertesacker told theclub’s website. “Both teams know that we are capable of beating each other. We have to be aware in Dortmund because it’s even harder to play there. “Two years ago we just managed to draw there, we were very lucky so that will be a tough challenge. “But when you look at the numbers from Tuesday’s game we are capable of achieving something special and we are good enough to go there and win.” The 30-year-old is likely to start with Koscielny once again at the Westfalenstadion, but will have to be aware of the attacking threat posed by Lewandowski, Marco Reus and co. Dortmund made it to the final of the top European tournament last season when Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich beat them at the final hurdle. Despite losing Mario Goetze to Munich, the Yellow and Blacks still look strong and recruited Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer.

Chelsea ace ready to celebrate Champions League start on attacker’s birthday Schurrle turns 23 and could be in line for a place against Schalke. With Manchester City progressing to the last-16 of the Champions League on Tuesday night, Chelsea can take a step closer when they play Schalke 04. The occasion will be particularly special for one Blues star, Andre Schurrle, as the German also celebrates the attacker’s 23rd birthday. After a disappointing 2-0 loss to Newcastle United in the Premier League at the weekend, Jose Mourinho is set to ring through the changes and Schurrle could well start as a result.

Jonathan, Mark, Abdullahi, Imoke hail Eaglets President Goodluck Jonathan on Tuesday congratulated the Golden Eaglets of Nigeria on their qualification for the final match of the ongoing FIFA Under-17 World Soccer Championship in the United Arab Emirates. According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President said he joined other very proud and happy Nigerians within and outside the country in applauding the Eaglets’ enthralling 3-0 victory over their Swedish opponents in the Semi-Final match. As the Eaglets prepare for the final match against the Mexican team, Jonathan urged them not to be over-confident or take victory for granted. “The President assures the Eaglets and their handlers of the continued prayers, best wishes and fullest support of the Federal Government and all Nigerians as they strive to achieve ultimate victory in the competition. He looks forward to receiving them at the Presidential Villa when they triumphantly return to Nigeria,” the statement read. The Senate President, David Mark commended them “for doing the nation proud.” Mark in a congratulatory message to the players and officials in Dubai after they defeated Sweden said, “The Nigerian lads gave a good account of themselves and made the nation the beautiful bride.” Mark reminded them that the nation was solidly behind them in prayers and assured them that the government will do the needful in terms of their welfare and upkeep. He added that the National Assembly on its part “would continue to make adequate budgetary allocation for sports to flourish in Nigeria.” He asked the Eaglets and their officials to go all out to win the championship. The Minister of Sports Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi has also congratulated the team for qualifying for the final. The Minister who was at the stadium in the UAE to personally support the team said he was impressed by the performance put up by the boys. He said, “I was really impressed by the performance of the boys. It was a delight to watch them beat Sweden; this is certainly Nigeria’s senior team of the future.” “One amazing quality these boys have is that they can raise their game when the situation demands it. This is no ordinary Nigerian side. The team is exceptional and their expected victory would be a good end-of-the-year gift to President Jonathan for his support and abiding commitment to the sports sector.” Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke also hailed them. Imoke is particularly thrilled that the boys of coach Manu Garba fulfilled the first part of their promise to him during the qualifiers for the championships.

Wow...!!! Pregnant at 18, best graduating student at 25...... Impressive...!!! When Aishat Farooq gained admission into the University of Ilorin at 15, to study Zoology, little did she know that she was not going to be an alumnus of the institution. That was in 2003. Despite the fact that she was a high flyer in her first two years in UNILORIN, the now 25-year-old indigene of Ilorin West-Local Government Area of Kwara State got distracted along the line. She played the campus love game and got a shocking result: she got pregnant. It was in 2006 and in her third year. She was pregnant for a fellow student whom she had been dating. She was disappointed in herself and thought the whole world was crashing on her. Yet, she vowed not to terminate the pregnancy. Although she wanted to continue her studies in the university, she became disillusioned and dropped out at 18. She sought consolation in trading. But her father, Mr. Shehu Farooq, who believed that his daughter’s academic prowess should not be wasted, was determined to get her back on the academic track. Today, Aishat has a different story to tell. On Saturday, she stood tall among her peers at the 5th convocation ceremony of Bells University, Ota, Ogun State, where she emerged the overall best graduating student with a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.93. “The rebel in me won,” she declared while giving the valedictory address on behalf of the 208 graduating students of the university. Quote “ I hope my story will inspire at least one person to change his or her circumstance. I was pregnant at 18 and by 19 I was already a mother. I had disappointed my father who believed so much in me. He had such big dreams for me and feared the dreams would become unfulfilled.” “I’m a goal getter. I push myself hard. Even here (BELLSTECH) in spite of being a mother, I was pushing for the best despite the challenges. I wanted to make my dad proud again. Once you are determined, nothing is impossible. Nothing can stop you.” Asked if she was involved in any relationship at the Bells, she explained that she was a popular “ snob ” on campus because the majority of male students were younger than her. Besides, she did not want to get distracted or disappoint her parents and herself again. She said she has no plans for marriage for now. She wants to pursue a master’s degree programme in Human Resources in the University of Aberdeen, Scotland. She added that she also plans to work in a corporate environment to garner experience and afterwards go back to the university to teach “as a way of giving back.” The second child in a family of eight children, Aishat brought her six-year-old son, Damilola, to the convocation. It was, however, learnt that the Edo State-born father of the boy has since got married to another woman .

We should have won – Moyes Manchester United manager David Moyes admits his side missed an opportunity to take control of their Champions League group when they played to a goalless draw at Real Sociedad last night. Robin van Persie struck the post from the penalty spot, having rattled the frame of the goal moments earlier after stepping off the bench, while Javier Hernandez somehow put the ball over the bar from six yards out early in the second half. Midfielder Marouane Fellaini was dismissed in the closing moments after a second yellow card following a series of petty challenges, with United remaining top of their section, a point ahead of Bayer Leverkusen who also drew 0-0 with Shakhtar Donetsk. Moyes' men travel to Germany for their next European fixture before ending the group phase at home to Shakhtar, and although they remain in control of their destiny, the Scot accepts they should be two points better off. He told Sky Sports: "It shouldn't have been a draw, it should have been a victory, we played well enough to win the game, made a lot of chances, and we missed a penalty as well. "When you get opportunities you want to take them. Those opportunities tonight would have made sure we were well clear at the top of the group, but we're still in a good position. "It's a good position, it's where we want to be, but we should have had three points tonight and made it a lot easier. "We go to Leverkusen next and then we play Shakhtar Donetsk at home, so hopefully in those two games we'll make sure we qualify." Moyes would not be drawn on the dismissal of Fellaini, but felt his side were not always favoured by referee Nicola Rizzoli. He said: "I thought it was a difficult night all night for all the Manchester United players. They didn't get many decisions, but the referee has to do what he sees." Having selected Hernandez ahead of Van Persie - possibly with Sunday's clash with Arsenal in mind - Moyes was keen to defend the Mexico international following his shocking miss. He added: "I think it bobbles a little bit and he just gets underneath it a little bit."

Mexico will be tougher warns Manu The U17 World Cup final between three-time champions Nigeria and Mexico on Friday will be a game of wits, warned coach Manu Garba. In Tuesday’s semi-final goals by Taiwo Awoniyi, Samuel Okon and Chidera Ezeh were enough to break the resolve of a resilient Swedish side that earlier played a 3-3 draw with Nigeria in their Group F match. It will be another rematch in the final as Nigeria trounced defending champions Mexico 6-1 in their opening game of the competition. But Eaglets coach Manu said it will be a different and tougher clash on Friday. “I still maintained that the Mexican team are a very technical team and we can see their resilience by coming from a 6-1 loss to us (Nigeria) and still be in the final," Manu said at the post-match media conference. Manu said the Golden Eaglets are now turbo-charged after a commanding performance throughout the tournament where they have won all their previous matches bar the 3-3 draw with Sweden. “We showed today (Tuesday) that we are a very strong side," maintained Manu, a World Cup winner as an assistant coach in 2007. "We are not going to be on any pressure against Mexico in the final because we would prepare mentally, physically and psychologically for the final. "The Mexican team I maintained are at very technical team and I believe the final is going to be a great one but by the grace of God, we shall win this trophy for Nigeria and Africa,” he noted.

Adnan Januzaj will be Man Utd's next No. 10 - David Moyes David Moyes believes Adnan Januzaj will become Manchester United's next No.10. 18-year-old Januzaj has made the headlines in recent weeks after impressing in Moyes' side and recently committed his future to the Red Devils by signing a new five-year contract. The teenager has featured this season as a winger, but the United boss believes the Belgium-born starlet will eventually move to a central role at Old Trafford. "In time, Adnan’s best position will be No.10," Moyes told reporters. "But while he’s so young, it is better to introduce him on the left or right. "He’s a terrific centre-forward as well and so talented that he can play in several positions. The boy’s working really well and, whatever job we give him, he’s so talented that he can handle it." Moyes has insisted that Januzaj will not be a regular starter this season, and has likened his managerial situation to when he was bringing Wayne Rooney through the ranks at Everton. "I don’t want to put too much expectation on the boy, which is why I’ll take him out so he doesn’t tire," Moyes continued. "But he’s got something which I haven’t seen for a long time. "I’m trying to keep the reins on him. It is a bit like I had with Wayne when he was a young player. I remember I used to get a bit of criticism because we played Wayne on the left a couple of times. "You can’t always get the young players right in and when you do, you try to find the right slots for them. It didn’t do Rooney any harm!"

Five things we learnt in the Premier League last week-end Here are five things we learnt from the latest round of games in the Premier League... 1. Arsenal are real title contenders Admit it, you’ve been doubting it haven’t you? We all have. But having dispatched on-form Liverpool with ease, football fans are starting to sit up and take notice of Arsenal FC. With record signing Mesut Özil pulling the strings, and Welsh wonderkid Aaron Ramsey finally reaching his potential, The Gunners look a force to be reckoned with, and currently sit five points clear of the rest of the pack. Liverpool, on the other hand, showed their limitations – they have a lot of work to do if they want to stay in the mix at the right end of the table. 2. Chelsea have their flaws Last week, I posted an article on this outlining how Chelsea have what it takes to win the Premier League. However, in Saturday’s early kick off at St.James Park, home of Newcastle United, they fell to a 2-0 defeat. Some of the Chelsea old guard began to look tired and out of touch, whilst the performance on a whole was a flat one. Every team at the top of the table appears to be unable to string together a run of really positive results without an unexpected loss, and Chelsea have suffered for this weekend’s loss. 3. Norwich need a change After two good seasons under Paul Lambert and Chris Hughton, Norwich were looking settled in the Premier League and made some very impressive additions to their squad this summer in the shape of Ricky Van Wolfswinkel and Leroy Fer to name but two. However, things just haven’t gone right so far for Hughton and The Canaries, and the humiliating 7-0 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday may give the board reason to force Hughton out of the club. The new signings haven’t performed as expected, but Norwich have a squad that is capable of much more than they are doing currently – but maybe it’s time for a fresh set of plans and some fresh ideas from the dugout. 4. You can’t rule out Manchester United just yet The ‘Moyes Out’ brigade has started to pipe down. Manchester United may not be in the best position they’ve ever been in after 10 games of a league seasons, sitting in 8th place. But the two victories in the last two games have been more like the United of old, one a comfortable victory showing class and composure, the other a dramatic win snatched from the jaws of defeat, having twice fallen behind at home to Stoke. They may sit in 8th position, but such is the nature of the Premier League so far this season, they are just three points away from second place. They are far from out of this title race yet. 5. Tottenham lack creativity Tottenham sides of the past have rarely lacked creativity or attacking verve – until now. Tottenham have built a competitive side on a strong defence, and despite spending almost all of the Gareth Bale world record transfer fee on attacking talent, they seem unable to get them to gel together. There’s still time for the likes of Erik Lamela, Roberto Soldado and Christian Eriksen to connect and combine to devastating effect, but at the minute, Tottenham’s lack of creativity and clinicality in front of goal is costing them points.

Why Sergio Aguero can be the Premier League's top scorer Sergio Aguero holds the record as Manchester City’s record transfer fee paid. For a fee believed to be approximately £38m, he arrived on these shores from Atletico Madrid in summer of 2011 with a reputation for skill, speed, and goals galore. He has not disappointed. On Saturday, Aguero played in his 100th competitive game for Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium against Norwich. He marked the occasion, in typical fashion, with a goal. His 58th goal in those 100 appearances, a phenomenal return made even better when you consider he doesn’t take free-kicks and only 5 of those goals have come from the penalty spot. In the Argentinian international, Manchester City have, in my opinion, the most consistently lethal striker in the Premier League. He has unbelievable pace, and incredible power for a man of his stature, and can score goals from all angles with his powerful shot, best demonstrated by his blistering strike at Stamford Bridge in City’s 2-1 defeat to Chelsea recently, which left Petr Cech in the Chelsea goal totally shell-shocked. He has the players to lay on the assists for him too. Alvaro Negredo is more than just a goalscorer, and will provide ‘flick ons’ for onrushing strikers like Aguero, who prefer to play off the last man. Bosnian forward Edin Dzeko is in a similar mould, whilst players like Stefan Jovetic, Jesus Navas and David Silva are the types of creative players than any striker would thrive upon. Between them, they possess the ability to create enough chances for any striker to be in the hunt for the golden boot, never mind one with the quality that ‘Kun’ Aguero possesses. There will be other players pushing the former Atletico man all the way of course. On the other side of the city of Manchester, Robin Van Persie and Wayne Rooney will have their eyes on the prize. However, much has been made of their partnership and whether it really works, whilst Moyes has struggled to get his team firing on a regular basis so far this season. Of course, Van Persie and Rooney are still two of the most lethal strikers in the Premier League and should not be ignored in any discussion of who could be the Premier League’s top scorer – but will United be as clinical in front of goal as The Citizenss this season? Judging from Manchester City’s rampant 7-0 weekend win against Norwich, and the fact that they have already scored 11 goals more than the Red Devils, you’d have to suggest not. Elsewhere, Liverpool’s troublesome twosome of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge will also be mentioned in the hunt for the trophy. They’ve been two of the pace-setters in the race for the golden boot, but will they get in the way each other? Towards the end of Liverpool’s 2-0 loss at Arsenal last week, we started to see the first signs of cracks in the relationship. They both have a tendency to be a little greedy in front of goal, and this could hinder them over the course of the season. There will be others. Christian Benteke and Romelu Lukaku have outside chances, whilst Roberto Soldado, despite not hitting form yet, has got himself a few goals from the penalty spot. However for me, Aguero has all the attributes required to go forth and be the Premier League’s leading goalscorer this season.

Man Utd need Javier Hernandez insists David Moyes Manchester United manager David Moyes insists Javier Hernandez remains part of his plans following renewed speculation about the striker's future at the club. Hernandez recently claimed that he needs more playing time, either at United or elsewhere, and has been linked with a January move to Tottenham. Moyes recently said he had no plans to let the Mexico international leave Old Trafford when the transfer window reopens, but 'Chicharito' had appeared to endorse comments on Twitter made by his international strike partner Carlos Vela, who suggested he should quit the Red Devils for more regular first-team football. "We need Javier Hernandez; he's very good for us," Moyes said prior to Real Sociedad vs. Man Utdin the Champions League on Tuesday night. "He's scored a lot of goals over the last few years and continues to do so, so we'll continue to use him." At the weekend, Vela had been quoted as saying that Hernandez may have to consider leaving the reigning Premier League champions. "He is one of the best finishers in England and deserves chances under the new coach," Vela had said. "If he plays regularly he will score, so I don't totally understand why a player of his quality has not played more games. "If he doesn't play regularly he will need to think about leaving. "You always want to succeed at the biggest clubs - but if he is not given the chance there will be big teams in England and Europe wanting him."

Liverpool FC are title contenders - Luis Suarez Liverpool striker Luis Suarez believes his side are one of a number of teams capable of winning the Premier League title this season. With reigning champions Manchester United sat in eighth place in the table, their rivals have taken advantage of the slow start from the Red Devils, with the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool enjoying decent starts. It is the Gunners who set the early pace having beaten the Reds in their last outing in the Premier League, but at present the Merseyside outfit are batting at the top end of the table. Suarez has been pleased with Liverpool's start and feels the race for the English crown this season is wide open. He toldRMC: "This season we started well, with the desire and hope. We do not have to compete in the European Cup which allows us to concentrate 100 per cent on the championship. "The Premier League is very tight this season and anything can happen against anyone." Meanwhile, Daniel Sturridge is hoping that Suarez will remain at Anfield as he looks to build on a prolific start to the season alongside the Uruguay international. The Reds duo have established themselves as a potent combination since Suarez's return from suspension, and the former Ajax forward recently likened his partnership with Sturridge to the one he enjoyed with Dutch striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar during his time in Amsterdam. Suarez was the subject of two failed bids from Arsenal during the summer, and Sturridge admits he is concerned by the ongoing speculation about his strike partner's future on Merseyside. "It’s great to play with him, we give defenders problems and we both play differently, so it’s good to have a strike partner you can bounce off," the England international toldtalkSPORT. "It’s going to great for him and everybody wants him to stay and it’s up to Luis to decide what he wants to do. "We as a club, the fans and the players, everybody wants him to stay, but if Luis wants to decide it’s best for him to move on then that’s the way it’s got to be. But I think everybody wants Luis to stay and I’m sure that he will." Of their partnership, Sturridge added: "We get on well and that’s the most important thing really. There’s no rivalry there or any hidden agendas, we just go out there and work hard. "That’s the most important thing, we’re not individuals, we’re a part of Liverpool football club and the team is more important than the SAS strike force or anything else. It’s about the club and the fans."

Arsenal News: Jack Wilshere's Absence and More Ahead of Dortmund Arsenal's treatment room has been running at full capacity in the last few months and Jack Wilshere is the latest addition according to Arsene Wenger. The midfielder will be unavailable for the Borussia Dortmund match, which is much more important to Arsenal after the 2-1 defeat in the reverse fixture at the Emirates stadium. Wilshere has missed the last two matches due to injury and he now looks set to miss this important match as well. Wenger has confirmed toSky Sports that he has not travelled to Germany, while there is also a chance that he will miss Sunday's match against Manchester United. "Jack Wilshere has not travelled. He has another test on Thursday. If he does not pass that he is out for Sunday and for England." Not all is bad news for Arsenal since Theo Walcott appears to be in frame to return on Sunday. Walcott and Podolski have been the major absentees for Arsenal in this brilliant run over the last two months. They have gone five points clear in the league, while the chances of qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions League still remain healthy. Kieran Gibbs would have been a major injury doubt for the Dortmund match, but he has recovered sufficiently to be part of the squad. The defender had to be taken off after 76 minutes in the 2-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday. Dortmund may not have kept a clean sheet in the last three matches, but they are on a four match winning streak. Per Mertesacker acknowledged the strength of the Germans, but he feels that Arsenal have enough quality of their own. "It is difficult to play Dortmund, especially away from home, but we have to keep our confidence. We are on a high level. We are top of the (Premier) League." Dortmund are incredibly strong at the Westfalenstadion and they have got lost an European home match since 2011.

Dos Santos surgery successful Barcelona have confirmed midfielder Jonathan Dos Santos has undergone successful surgery on his right knee. The Mexico star sustained a serious cruciate knee ligament injury in training in October and, despite going under the knife, now faces six months out as he looks to return to full fitness by the end of the 2013/14 campaign. A statement on Barca’s website confirmed: "Jonathan dos Santos was successfully operated on this morning, following the injury to his right knee suffered in training last month. "Doctors Joan Carles Monllau and Ricard Pruna carried out the operation with the assistance of Egarsat. "Dos Santos was injured in training on October 23 and is expected to be out for about six months."

No Drogba-Beckenbauer war of words Galatasaray striker Didier Drogba has refused to be drawn into a war of words with Germany legend Franz Beckenbauer. Beckenbauer hit out at the Ivorian for gathering his team-mates in a circle before their Champions League clash with Copenhagen on 23 October and suggested the star undermined boss Roberto Mancini with his actions. The Turkish club went on to win the game 3-1- perhaps proving Drogba did nothing wrong- but the star has now refused to retaliate. Instead he has hailed the 68-year-old, and told new Turkish television show‘Big Legend’: "I don’t need to respond to Beckenbauer’s statements about me. Our coach Roberto Mancini has said all that has to be said. "He is a person I respect fully and look up to. I’m not a kind of person that polemicizes." Galatasaray are currently fourth in the Turkish Super Lig, having taken 19 points from their opening 10 games in 2013/14. They have endured a patchy start to their Champions League campaign, however, and sit second in Group B- six points behind leaders Real Madrid. Drogba has played a key role in Gala’s season so far- having scored nine goals in all competitions- and is widely regarded as the Super Lig’s top star.

Nigeria cruise to U17 WC Final Nigeria beat Sweden 3-0 in Dubai this evening to reach Friday’s final of the 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup in the UAE. Nigeria took a 1-0 lead into the break through Taiwo Awoniyi before a late second half blitz put the result beyond doubt. However, this time there would be no dramatic rally from Nigeria against Sweden after coming back twice in their earlier Group F meeting that ended 3-3 on October 22. Sweden tried to intimidate Nigeria in the opening 15 minutes but the three-time champions kept shape. The Swedes also tested Dele Alampasu in the 2nd minute when Valmar Berisha's shot came off the side netting. Awoniyi asserted Nigeria's command of the game with the opening goal in the 21st minute after a great through ball from the outstanding Kelechi Iheanacho. Sweden also had a difficult time trying to contain captain Musa Muhammed's rampaging runs on the right wing through the opening half. Just after the restart, Chidera Ezeh could not believe his misfortune when his header came off the upright after some good work from Samuel Okon. Sweden then produced pockets of resistance but Nigeria remained composed socking everything the Scandinavians’ threw at them. Nigeria then turned on the style in a two-minute spell of the final 10 minutes of the match. Okon found space after a sweet layoff from Iheanacho blasts in Nigeria’s second goal in the 80th minute. A minute later, Ezeh volleyed in from close range to make it 3-0. Iheanacho almost added a brace in the 83rd minute but his effort hit the side netting.Nigeria face defending champions Mexico in Fridays final in Abu Dhabi. The match will be a repeat of the opening Group F match on October 19 that saw Nigeria obliterate Mexico 6-1. Meanwhile, Sweden will face Argentina for Bronze in the curtain-raiser on Friday.

Sweden crown Nigeria champions again Sweden coach Roland Larsson has said Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets will be world champions again after they lost 3-0 in Tuesday’s semi-final. Nigeria battle defending champions Mexico, who spanked nine-man Argentina in the other semi-final, in Friday’s final in their quest for a record fourth World Cup. “We lost to the champions,” Larsson told the media at the end of a match in which his team were thoroughly outplayed and now face Argentina for third place. Meanwhile, the Eaglets earned double their match bonus on Tuesday after they reached the final of the FIFA U17 World Cup. Sports minister Bolaji Abdulahi made a pledge to double the team’s bonus for both the semi-final and final matches. He also predicted a bright future for the Nigerian football, describing the Eaglets as a project dear to his heart. Speaking with the team, the Minister said the players have shown in the course of time that they would go places if they remained disciplined. "I took so much pride in this team since the first day you started assembling the players last year and I'm so happy about what you have collectively achieved," he said. "Everybody has been saying it that you are the future of Nigerian football and you have proved it with your performance here."

Jose unhappy with forgetful Blues Jose Mourinho believes Chelsea "forgot" the reasons for their six-match winning streak at Newcastle and is demanding they bounce back. The Blues will bid to bounce back from the surprise defeat at St James' Park, which followed six wins in October, including against tonight's Champions League Group E opponents Schalke. Mourinho is now hoping the defeat against Newcastle was a lesson to his palyers that you cannot afford to switch off and still expect to win games week in week out. "When you win a lot, you cannot forget why you win," Mourinho said. "You cannot think that you win just because you have a nice shirt or you are on a good run or you are in a lucky moment. "When you think that, you are in trouble. You never can forget why you are winning matches and maybe we forgot. "I hope now they don't forget why they won a lot of matches and why they lost against Newcastle. If they have that clear in their minds we are fine."

Torres ruled out Jose Mourinho has confirmed striker Fernando Torres will miss tonight's Champions League meeting with Schalke with a muscular injury. Torres made a premature exit from training on Monday and was absent as 25 members of the first-team squad took to the field at Chelsea's Cobham training base to finalise preparations for the clash at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea host Schalke, who they beat 3-0 in Gelsenkirchen last month with two goals from Torres, bidding to enhance their position at the top of Group E. "Fernando we know has a muscular (leg) injury," Mourinho said. "We don't know the dimension. Scan tomorrow. Out for tomorrow and the weekend (against West Brom). "After that it's the international break and we will see how he recovers." Elsewhere, Left-back Ryan Bertrand is also out of the Schalke contest after picking up an unspecified injury in training on Tuesday.

We're not cursed! Mourinho vows to lift Chelsea's November jinx ahead of crucial Schalke clash Jose Mourinho was still damp from the drizzle as he dismissed the theory that the November rain might have some kind of debilitating effect on Chelsea’s players. ‘I won’t go for that, it makes no difference,’ said Mourinho, shaking his head, but aware that Saturday’s defeat at Newcastle has set a few nerves jangling ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League home match with Schalke. ‘If the game at Newcastle was on October 30 rather than November 2, there is no difference,’ he went on. And he’s right, it makes no sense, but this is a month when problems steeple at Stamford Bridge. Last year they won one of seven in this month; the year before they lost three times, as they did the year before that. Three years ago, assistant manager Ray Wilkins was fired in November. Last year, it was manager Roberto Di Matteo heading for the exit and John Terry injured. It might be when fixtures start to take their toll. Ryan Bertrand yesterday became the second player to pick up a knock in training this week when he injured his knee and will miss Wednesday night’s game, as will Fernando Torres, who damaged a thigh on Monday. Mourinho may not be superstitious but he has been in firm mood since Chelsea’s positive run of form came to a halt on Tyneside. He tore into his players at half-time, criticised them afterwards and yesterday was still bemoaning their ‘attitude’ and ‘complacency’. ‘When you win a lot, you cannot forget why you win,’ he said. ‘Maybe the worst thing that happened was the easy start. You go there and see lots of space and they don’t press you. They were a bit scared. We hit the post twice. The game was easy to win, we had lots of space to play in the first half, but we were just playing as if the goal would arrive.’ Defeat at Newcastle followed away victories at Schalke and Arsenal and a late win at home over Manchester City. October saw six straight wins and a solid recovery in the Champions League after losing to Basle. Mourinho added: ‘It was a good reaction to the pressure, to play a difficult match against City and go to Arsenal without many players who normally play. ‘So maybe I was caught by surprise. The only difference is, during the first half, it looked like they were not feeling it. And I was feeling it.’ Afterwards, Mourinho claimed he had made 11 selection mistakes. It hinted at major changes. ‘I was exaggerating,’ he said. ‘It’s not about changing 11 and I don’t want changes I make to be seen as somebody paying for the defeat. We just want to win.’ What he wants is a reaction, something to help him crush this November madness.

FG Offers ASUU N220bn over Five Years to End Strike President Goodluck Jonathan •Union insists on N350bn in 2014, N400bn over four years •Govt, NLC optimistic about reopening of varsities Jaiyeola Andrews and Damilola Oyedele The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has begun consultations with its members on whether or not to accept the new offer of a yearly payment of N220 billion over the next five years made by the federal government, in furtherance of the implementation of the 2009 Agreement aimed at ending the four-month strike by the university teachers. THISDAY gathered that the federal government at a marathon meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan that ended Tuesday, had made the offer of the annual payment of N220 billion for five years after the union had insisted on getting paid N350 billion in 2014 and N400 billion annually over the next four years. But the federal government had pleaded with the union to be reasonable in its demands so that the universities could be reopened. It also appealed to ASUU’s representatives at the meeting to take its offer to its members and gave them one week to thrash it out. If the federal government’s offer is accepted, the amount will be used for the universities’ infrastructure needs and lecturers’ earned allowances as stipulated under the 2009 Agreement. Following the N200 billion annual offer made by the federal government, the union, after the 13-hour meeting, said it could not take a decision yet on the proposal until its members had examined the offer and decided whether to accept or reject it. Although none of the parties to the negotiations, which began on Monday at 2.40 pm and ended at about 3.30 am yesterday, was willing to divulge details to reporters who had kept vigil throughout the meeting, it was gathered that the concrete annual lump sum of N220 billion offered by government, raised hopes of an imminent end to the protracted labour dispute. Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) were upbeat yesterday that students who had been kept home by the strike would soon return to schools. Briefing State House reporters yesterday morning after the marathon meeting, ASUU President, Dr. Nasir Fagge, said the union would take the message from Jonathan to its members. On what the message was all about, he said the union got a message from the president and would take it to the members. He however declined to say what had transpired at the meeting and whether a truce was reached or not. “Well we had a lengthy meeting with Mr. President, rubbing minds on how best to address the problem of university education in this country. And we now have a message from Mr. President which we are going to take to our members. And we are expecting that our members will respond appropriately to the message of Mr. President,” he explained. When asked for details of the message, Fagge said: “I can’t tell you (reporters). It is not for you. It is for our members.” He also declined to say if he was satisfied with the president’s offer, adding: “Don’t put words into my mouth. Our members will determine that.” On whether the union was ready to call off the strike to allow the resumption of academic activities in universities, he stressed: “That is up to our members.” Wogu, also in his interaction with reporters, expressed optimism that the outcome of the negotiations with ASUU would lead to the suspension of the strike. He said: “We made progress. The president of ASUU told you (reporters) that they are going back with a message from the federal government to their members. And the message is full of high expectations and hope.” On whether the message was good enough to make ASUU call off the strike, he said: “That is why the message is full of high expectations and hope. So our prayer is that they come back with a positive outcome. “They might not even come back to meet us, they might take decisions there that will meet your expectations. “Nigerians should be patient for ASUU to finish their meetings and come out with a message to Nigerians.” On whether the government made any fresh offer to the union, Wogu said: “Well, the offers we made are the offers they are talking about in line with the 2009 agreement. The issues that led to the strike are issues contained in the 2009 Agreement and we did not go beyond the agreement.” The minister, who also spoke to THISDAY on the issue yesterday, reiterated his statement that the marathon meeting focused on the 2009 agreement with the union. “We believe the presidential intervention has resolved the logjam. The ball is now in the court of the union leaders to meet with their members to convey the outcome of the meeting to their members. “We are very optimistic that this will bring about a positive outcome. Even the ASUU team was very happy with the deliberations,” he said.

Arsenal rely on Ozil flair as Wilshere woes pile up ahead of crucial Dortmund game In a world where Jack Wilshere never got injured, he would be alongside Mesut Ozil in Arsenal’s midfield this evening and facing him at Wembley in 13 days. Sadly for Wilshere, he is out of this tantalising Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund with an ankle injury and may yet be forced out of England’s prestige friendly against Germany. There will be another assessment on Wilshere’s susceptible left ankle on Thursday, but discussions between Roy Hodgson’s medical department have already taken place with Arsenal’s physios. It doesn’t sound promising. Wenger said: ‘I will know more on Thursday when he will have another test. If that is not successful he will definitely be out for Sunday against Manchester United. If he is out for Sunday, then he will definitely be out for England as well.’ It left Wenger to talk about those who were fit to travel to Dortmund for this challenging Group F clash against last season’s beaten finalists. Ozil is one of them and Wenger believes he can break into the Lionel Messi/Cristiano Ronaldo cartel to battle for the right to be regarded as the best player on the planet. The Germany midfielder, who has scored three times since his £42.5m move from Real Madrid in September, is one of 23 nominees for FIFA’s prestigious Ballon d’Or award. Wenger added: ‘Ozil is not one of the favourites this year, but in the future he can win it. ‘What he has brought to the team is exceptional technical quality. His vision and his desire to play collectively with other players is very strong. He is a player who has only one master and that is the football. 'He does what the game demands and that is something that all the great players have.’ It’s an ambitious target to set a player, but Ozil’s unique skills can turn tight situations in their favour. They will need him to perform against Jurgen Klopp’s team. Arsenal will run out in front of the Sudtribune, home of the legendary Yellow Wall where 25,000 Dortmund fanatics are stationed, to meet German football’s form team. They have a 100 per cent record at home this season and tuned up for Arsenal’s visit with a 6-1 victory over Stuttgart on Friday evening. As usual Robert Lewandowski, who scored the winner for Dortmund at the Emirates two weeks ago, was in on the action. He scored a hat-trick, the fourth of his career with Die Borussen. Wenger said: ‘Usually at home Lewandowski is dangerous, but it’s down to us to have the ball. That is the best way to keep them quiet. If we leave the ball to Dortmund, a player like Lewandowski will be dangerous.’ So, too, are Arsenal. They were lifted by the manner of their victory over Liverpool on Saturday, putting away one of their title rivals with an assured performance at the Emirates. They are also unbeaten in 14 away games since that epic night in Munich when they stunned the eventual winners last March by winning 2-0 in the Allianz-Arena. ‘Maybe we didn’t have the same belief at home because we failed to win a few big home games and there was a bit of scepticism,’ added Wenger. They are bursting with belief now, convinced they can put a spike in a record of wins at this 81,000-capacity stadium this season that reads: 2-1, 1-0, 6-2, 5-0, 3-0, 1-0, 6-1. Klopp was measured on Tuesday, slipping on the game face after his entertaining analogies that compared his side with a heavy metal band and Arsenal with an orchestra. This is the serious stuff and he has already shown his players a video of Arsenal’s remarkable victory against last season’s champions. ‘This will be a great fight and there will be a lot of man-on-man tackles,’ said Klopp. ‘It will be tough for Lewandowski against Mertesacker and Koscielny. He will have to impose his game.’ Beyond that, it is shaping up to be a classic.

Blackburn and Blackpool fined £5,000 each after 21-man brawl Blackpool and Blackburn Rovers have each been fined £5,000 by the FA after their players were involved in a 21-man brawl last month. Rovers forward DJ Campbell and Tangerines' defender Jack Robinson were both sent off after the incident, which occurred late on in the 2-2 draw at Bloomfield Road. A statement from the FA read: 'Blackpool and Blackburn Rovers have each been fined the standard penalty of £5,000 after admitting a breach of FA Rule E20(a) in relation to their game on 26 October 2013. 'Both clubs were charged with failing to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion in or around the 85th minute of this fixture.'

Pellegrini says rampant City can beat anyone Manchester City's Fernandinho (L) chases down CSKA Moscow's Seydou Doumbia during their UEFA Champions League group D match in Manchester, November 5, 2013, which City won 5-2 Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini believes that his side should fear no team in Europe after they crushed CSKA Moscow 5-2 to reach the Champions League last 16. Having demolished Norwich City 7-0 in the Premier League on Saturday, City have now scored 12 goals in their last two matches. Alvaro Negredo led the charge against CSKA on Tuesday with a hat-trick, while Sergio Aguero claimed a brace as City qualified for the knockout rounds after successive group-stage exits in 2011 and 2012. Asked if City could beat any team in the competition, Pellegrini replied: "I think so. But at this level, every team can beat us also. "There are the most important teams in Europe, the most important teams in Spain, in Italy, in France. I think we have a strong squad and we will see where we can go in this Champions League." After hosting Group D's bottom side Viktoria Pilsen on November 27, City will conclude the group phase away to defending champions and pool leaders Bayern Munich. Bayern currently lead City by three points, but Pellegrini believes that regardless of the final standings, no team will relish a trip to the Etihad Stadium in the round of 16. "The minimum target was to qualify for the next round, but it wasn't our only target," he said. "We must continue in Europe. We will see the draw, because we don't know with whom we are going to play in February, but I am sure that the team we play against will not be very happy to play against us." CSKA will play host to Bayern in their next game with part of their stadium closed as a punishment for the racist chanting to which City midfielder Yaya Toure was subjected when he played there two weeks ago. Tuesday's reverse fixture passed off without off-field incident and afterwards, Toure made a pointed reference to the conduct of his side's supporters. "We must say thank you to the fans today," said the Ivorian. "They showed the fans of CSKA how to support a team." When CSKA coach Leonid Slutsky was asked in his post-game press conference whether anyone from his club had spoken to Toure about the incidents in Moscow, he replied: "I don't know." Pellegrini urged CSKA's supporters to learn their lessons from the affair. "I think maybe if the fans of CSKA will have another way to support their team, I think that's the better way," he said. "They have to have another way to support their team. UEFA made the thing (punishment) that they had to do and it's better to finish with that thing." While Negredo and Aguero took most of the plaudits with their goals, Pellegrini was also eager to underline the contributions of attacking midfielders Samir Nasri and David Silva, who tormented CSKA throughout. "Both of them, Silva and Nasri, are two very important creative midfielders and they play really well," said the Chilean. "I think also that the way we are playing, giving both of them the freedom to play where they want, with all the movement, is also important for both of them. "For the two strikers, with the way we play, trying to always be in the opposite side (half), it allows both of them to play very well with the ball at their feet. It's a mix of all." Slutsky, whose side can no longer qualify for the last 16, attributed Tuesday's result to his own players' mistakes and said he had been more impressed by Bayern, who beat CSKA 3-0 in their opening group game. "Obviously we were playing against players of a high level, but the mistakes were our own," said Slutsky, whose side scored twice through Seydou Doumbia. "We lost because of ourselves, whereas in Bavaria (against Bayern Munich) it was mostly down to the level of the other side."

Mourinho wants Champions League backlash against Schalke Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has called for an immediate response from his players against Schalke in the Champions League on Wednesday following their unscheduled defeat at Newcastle United. The Europa League champions appeared to be gathering momentum after winning all six of their matches in all competitions in October, only to slump to a 2-0 loss at St James' Park in the Premier League on Saturday. On Wednesday they will be bidding to repair their home record in European competition, having seen a 29-game unbeaten run in the Champions League group phase ended by Basel in their opening Group E fixture. Their subsequent victories away to Steaua Bucharest (4-0) and Schalke (3-0) took them to the top of the pool, but another setback at Stamford Bridge would compromise their chances of reaching the last 16. "We are in a stable position to qualify in the Champions League, but if we lose again we are in a difficult position," Mourinho told the Chelsea website. "So Wednesday is an important game for us." Mourinho has vowed to shake up his starting XI, having been critical of his players' application after the defeat at Newcastle. Andre Schurrle, Willian and Samuel Eto'o will all hope to start after coming on from the bench against Alan Pardew's side, while Juan Mata's place once again looks at risk after he was hooked in the 62nd minute. "I will make changes. Not 11 changes because that would be too much, but changes for sure," said Mourinho. "I don't know my best team because we have this kind of performance (against Newcastle). "I know basically which is my best team, but it depends on the way we perform because performances and results push you for decisions." Mourinho can at least console himself that, with the exception of long-term knee injury victim Marco van Ginkel, he has a full complement of players to choose from. The same cannot be said of his Schalke counterpart Jens Keller, whose injury-ravaged squad have been unable to keep pace in the Bundesliga this season. Schalke won 2-0 away to Hertha Berlin on Saturday, but they are languishing in sixth place -- 12 points behind leaders Bayern Munich -- after losing four of their opening 11 games. The Gelsenkirchen club have been hit by injuries to Marco Hoger, Jefferson Farfan, Chinedu Obasi and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, although Greek centre-back Kyriakos Papadopoulos is close to a return from a knee problem after playing for Schalke's reserves last weekend. One positive by-product of the injury blight has been the emergence of youngsters such as 18-year-old attacking midfielder Max Meyer, who last month became the youngest player to score in three consecutive Bundesliga games. However, captain Benedikt Howedes has admitted: "We cannot compete against top teams like Chelsea at the moment." Schalke's last visit to England came almost exactly a year ago, when they won 2-0 against current Premier League leaders Arsenal en route to topping their group. Chelsea have not lost at home to a German team in six previous encounters, but Schalke may take heart from the London club's curious habit of struggling for form in November. Chelsea have won just six out of 21 games that they have played in the last three Novembers, and former manager Roberto Di Matteo paid with his job this time last year after the defending champions fell in the group phase. Goalkeeper Petr Cech says that his side are aware of the quirk and determined not to succumb to their November hoodoo again. "We always say, 'Be careful, because November was not the greatest month,' and we said it again two years ago and again last year," said the Czech Republic international. "The last three seasons it didn't really work out and that is very hard to explain. "But we are now in a good position in the league and a good position in the Champions League group, and we have to carry on like that because it's a long campaign."

Premier League title challengers, how are they doing after 10 games? Ten games in, we have a look at the back that is bunched up in the title chase, whilst the leaders have a little bit of early breathing space. It may be early days in the season but several managers past and present have said that looking at the table after ten games in a league season is a good barometer to see how they’re progressing. Here we have a look at the title fight and see rate their season so far. Arsenal- 1st, 25 points A lot of people will probably have seenthe Gunners as the main casualty if the make-up of the Champions League places were going to change, but their start suggests otherwise. After a shock defeat on the opening day of the season,Arsenal have bounced back well and have only dropped two points in their other 9 games. They have also managed to beat tricky opposition in Tottenham andLiverpool at home whilst some don’t think they have played enough tough opposition early on and the coming months will be a truer test of their title credentials. If they keep up the same rate they are projected to finish on 95 points this season- which you’d think would be enough for them to win the title, though a few pundits are queuing up to talk down their chances of lifting the title come May. Rating 9.5/10 Chelsea- 2nd, 20 points Jose Mourinho will be a bit concerned aboutChelsea’ away from out of anything in the league having only won on the road so far against a struggling Norwich City side. However, their home form has been excellent and they lead the chasing pack. They have playedManchester United, Tottenham,Everton andManchester City early on so it wouldn’t be a surprise if their season starts to gather pace. They were expected to challenge for the title early on in the season but are in a fairly strong position. Projected points 76- Rating 7/10 Liverpool- 3rd, 20 points Liverpool will have set themselves the aim of getting into the top four this season and therefore will have needed a good start- something which they have got. Like Arsenal they have received the same criticism of not playing the stronger teams in the division but have a tricky looking period coming up when they face their rivals for European places before the turn of the year. They overcameManchester United at home as well beating sides they ought to in struggling Sunderland and Crystal Palace, along with avoiding defeat at tricky away fixtures in Swansea and Newcastle. The home defeat toSouthampton was one of their poorer performances of the season, but overall they should be relatively happy with the start they’ve made. Projected points 76- Rating 8/10 Tottenham- 4th, 20 points They may not have scored many goals but they have had a solid looking start- even with that shock home defeat to West Ham. Tough games against Arsenal and Chelsea are out of the way and they seem to be picking up wins by the odd goal to help them keep ticking along. Given that they haven’t got into full flow yet they will be happy with where they are so far. At the start of the season we predicted they could be a major threat to the top four places, and so far that’s looking true. Projected points 76- Rating 7.5/10 Manchester City- 5th, 19 points New manager but were heavily tipped to win the league title. They have been scintillating at home, indifferent away from home as they have only managed to win the one game, but some individual errors have cost them points and left Manuel Pellegrini with some big decisions to make. Still very much in the hunt having playedMan United and Chelsea as you would expect, but have some difficult fixtures coming up soon, like a lot of the top sides. Lots of goals but the defence may need tightening. Projected points 72 Rating 6/10 Southampton- 6th, 19 points The surprise package of the season so far, so hands up who expected them to be battling it out with those who harbour ambitions of a title challenge or Champions League place at the start of August. Anyone? People wouldn't have expected them to be mentioned in amongst the title contenders but they are above the current champions so it would be rude not to. A foundation built on solid defence, they’ve defeated Liverpool at Anfield and taken a point off Manchester United at Old Trafford. They will have perhaps liked to have taken all three points against West Ham and Sunderland early on. One could argue the fixture list has been relatively favourable forthe Saints, but have picked up points where they were least expected to. Some, however, are waiting for their bubble to burst. Everton- 7th, 19 points A difficult job for Roberto Martinez following in the footsteps of David Moyes and so far he has impressed. Having beaten Chelsea at Goodison Park, given Manchester City a scare, and heldSpurs to a draw, Everton look a match for anybody. Shrewd signings have also settled into the side well as they look comfortable on the ball and very good going forward, as expected.

Premier League title challengers, how are they doing after 10 games? Ten games in, we have a look at the back that is bunched up in the title chase, whilst the leaders have a little bit of early breathing space. It may be early days in the season but several managers past and present have said that looking at the table after ten games in a league season is a good barometer to see how they’re progressing. Here we have a look at the title fight and see rate their season so far. Arsenal- 1st, 25 points Chelsea- 2nd, 20 points Liverpool- 3rd, 20 points Tottenham- 4th, 20 points Manchester City- 5th, 19 points Southampton- 6th, 19 points Everton- 7th, 19 points Manchester United- 8th, 17 points

Manchester United latest: Including Van Persie rested, and Januzaj protection call News, views and rumours relating toManchester United in the past 24 hours. United have announced their starting line-up for the game away toReal Sociedad: Starting Team: De Gea, Smalling, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Valencia, Fellaini, Giggs, Kagawa, Rooney, Hernandez Subs: Lindegaard, Jones, Buttner, Anderson, Nani, Young, Van Persie The English champions can knock the Spaniards out of the competition butthe Red Devils cannot qualify for the knockout stages just yet. David Moyes has called for‘greater protection’ from referees for Adnan Januzaj following Fulham’s Sacha Riether’s charge with violent conduct retroactively by the FA for his stamp onthe Red Devils’ youngster. “I do think Adnan is going to need a little bit of protection or we are going to find he is getting kicked up and down,”he said. “I do think he deserves a little bit more than he is getting at this time.” Sacha Riether has apologized to Adnan Januzaj for his conduct via Twitter. "I want to say I am sorry to Adnan Januzai," he said. "It was very unlike me and I can only say that frustration got the better of me. I also want to apologise to my teammates, fans and everyone at the Club, for the ban incurred following Saturday's match. "I will accept the consequences of my actions, and hope to put it behind me when I return,” he added. However,Sacha Riether could‘get off’ the FA’s charge of violent conduct by way of the same loophole that allowed Chelsea’s Fernando Torres to escape punishment by the authority for‘clawing’ Tottenham’s Jan Vertonghen in the face. Riether face a three-match ban for his stamp on Januzaj on Saturday after referee Lee Probert failed to spot the incident leading the FA to review the footage from the game but Fulham could appeal the charge on the basis that the match officials did in fact see the incident and chose not to punish the Fulham player during the game. In transfer news,David Moyes insists Javier Hernandez is‘needed’at United, following speculation over the Mexican striker’s future at Old Trafford this week and in recent months. "We need Javier Hernandez; he's very good for us," Moyes said. "He's scored a lot of goals over the last few years and continues to do so, so we'll continue to use him." This comes as his Mexico teammate Carlos Vela spoke out calling for him to gain more regular playing time- something which Chicharito retweeted on Twitter yesterday. In other news,Manchester United’s first FA Cup final programme has sold for16,000 at auction at Sotheby’s in London. Finally, former United captainRoy Keane is in talks to sign a management deal with the Republic of Irelandalong with Martin O’Neill.

Liverpool selling summer signing would seem incredibly hasty A report this morning indicated thatIago Aspas could be on his way out of Anfield in the next window. Liverpool forwardIago Aspas has been linked with a move away from Anfield having only signed for the club in the summer transfer window. By his own admission, Aspas would’ve liked to have been more prominent in front of goal during his time on Merseyside so far this season, but if reports from theDaily Star turn out to be true, it would look like an incredibly rash decision. The forward has so far made only six appearances in aLiverpool shirt since making a7m move from Celta Vigo, and has since suffered an injury setback by tearing a thigh muscle. But without really seeing what the Spaniard is capable of, it seems a little unfair if Liverpool were to ship him out almost immediately. Admittedly he is not going to be the first choice striker at Liverpool, especially given the form of Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez at the moment. From what Aspas demonstrated during the pre-season and in the competitive matches so far, he has shown he moves well to create space and can get himself into goal scoring positions- though he is perhaps not regarded as clinical. He isn’t afraid to make the run in the six yard box and get on the end of the ball- which if you watch some of Liverpool’s missed opportunities so far this season, it has lacked someone being around the six yard area to stab the ball home. Spending7m on a striker and sell him on after not having a good look at him would be a bit hasty, would it not?

Tata Martino: “The match against Milan is of vital importance” The manager is wary of Milan's potential ahead of tomorrow's match:"We have to play a good game to win the three points" Before the press conference got underway, Tata Martino sent a message of encouragement to Jonathan dos Santos, who underwent surgery this Tuesday: “I want to send him my regards and all of our support. I hope he has a speedy recovery.” Tata Martino reminded the journalists gathered in the Ricard Maxenchs press room of the importance of tomorrow’s Champions League clash with AC Milan.“It’s of vital importance to us seeing that we’re on the verge of qualifying [for the next round].” A victory over the Italian team would give FC Barcelona passage to the Round of 16, which would “give us a certain tranquility” ahead of of the last two matches of the group stage. The match is of vital importance to us seeing that we’re on the verge of qualifying for the next round of the competition In addition, the manager isn’t paying too much attention to Milan’s recent streak of poor results (one draw and two defeats) since the two teams faced off at the San Siro two weeks ago. “I have a lot of respect for the club and players of Milan. If you don’t play well, they can hurt you.We need to have a very good game to win the three points.” He added with a touch of irony: “We’re also in a crisis and I don’t think there’s too much of a difference in how both AC Milan and FC Barcelona are coming into the match. In these circumstances we’re the same.” Martino then defended how Barça play, even though he admitted that there’s room for improvement.“There’s room to improve and I don’t have any doubt that we can do it, both collectively and individually. I believe that our collective form influences the individual form of the players,” he explained. He added: “We insist and try to follow the same path, the path that makes Xavi and Iniesta important.” But he added that there are players “that give you alternatives during different periods of a game.” There’s room to improve and I don’t have any doubt that we can do it When asked aboutLeo Messi, Tata Martino said, “I’m very content to have him on the team. I expect him to contribute what he usually contributes to the team, he’s very decisive for us.”

Robben’s Right? The Story Behind The Flying Dutchman’s Ballon d’Or Nomination Arjen Robben has been one of the biggest names in European football for a number of years, playing forChelsea,Real Madrid andBayern Munich. Last season, Robben was part of one of the great European sides. Jupp Heynckes built an unstoppable machine that rolled on throughout the season, destroying everything in its way. Initially, the flying Dutchman Robben was struggling for a place in Heynckes’ side but developed his game in order to fit into the system. Robben has never been known for grafting on the pitch, or tracking back to help win possession back; he has always been an individual who will do what he does best when in possession and that’s it. However, last season, he turned that all around. In Munich’s run to Champions League glory, Robben was arguably one of the best players in the squad. He scored two goals against Barcelona in the semi-final and scored the winner in the final againstBorussia Dortmund. Major honours this year Robben won everything he could with Bayern last season. This includes the Champions League, the German Cup and the Bundesliga. He also won the UEFA Super Cup in a penalty shoot out win over Chelsea earlier this season. The Dutchman didn’t play many Bundesliga games, but he featured heavily in the club’s European run. He also featured nine times for Holland in 2013, scoring four times. Who is Arjen Robben? Born in Bedum, Holland in January 1984, Robben first made his name at Groningen in the Eredivisie. He was the club’s Player of the Year in 2001 and soon moved to PSV two year later where he became Netherlands’ Young Player of the Year and won the league title. After impressing for PSV, Chelsea swooped in and signed the Dutchman for £12 million. After winning the Premier League twice with Chelsea, he moved to Real Madrid for £24m where he won the La Liga in 2008. When he left the Spanish capital, he claimed he was forced out against his will. He has since played for Munich, winning two Bundesligas, two German Cups, two German Super Cups, a UEFA Super Cup and the Champions League. Key Stats Robben has a fantastic left-foot and is dangerous whenever he cuts-in from the right-hand side. He either unleashes a shot on goal or plays a pass to a team-mate. This season, only Franck Ribery has created more chances than him, with 32 to his 21. His shooting is also impressive as he holds a shot accuracy of 64%.

Semi-final will be different, Sweden warn Nigeria Sweden coach Roland Larsson insists his side’s semi-final clash with Nigeria at Rashid Stadium in Dubai on Tuesday will be “a completely different game” to the 3-3 result when the teams met in the group stages. World Cup debutantes Sweden twice went ahead against three-time champions Nigeria to lead 2-0 and 3-2 before the Golden Eaglets fought back for a draw in Group F last month. It was the only occasion so far in the tournament that Nigeria have looked beatable. However, Larsson is by no means stepping into this fixture on an overconfident note, having watched Nigeria rack up 20 goals so far. “It’s another game,” said Larsson of the semi-final. “We had a good first game against them but that’s history. Now we are at the end of the tournament and there are a lot of new aspects to the game like tired players. The best team will be the one that has recovered the best.” Asked what his side had learned from their first match against Nigeria, Larsson said: “We learned that if you don’t stay focused against Nigeria for the full 90 minutes, you will make a mistake and they will punish you. “You have to follow a plan — run, fight and cover — especially to take care of defence. But defence alone doesn’t win games, so we also have to score and we scored three times against Nigeria, so we are satisfied about that. Nigeria have high quality individual skills and very good players. They play very fast passing football and have many tools to score from — the centre, wings, crosses and counters. It’s a complete team for attacking. We respect Nigeria but we still feel we can beat them.”

Eaglets battle Sweden for final ticket Golden Eaglets coach Manu Garba said he was confident that his team would deliver in Tuesday’s semi-final match against Sweden at the Rashid Stadium in Dubai. “All my life, I have never entertained any fear and I don’t even know what fear means,” Manu said at the pre-match conference. “Of course, I know that whatever happens is ordained by God, so I have no fear about Sweden.” When the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup kicked off in the UAE on October 17, the Nigerian team were undoubtedly among the competition’s favourites because of the country’s rich football history, especially at this level. They had won the competition in 1985, 1993 and 2007 and emerged runners-up in 1987, 2001 and 2009. But now, the Golden Eaglets’ fourth title aspiration seems tied to how strong they can be against Sweden — their second meeting since the competition began. They had met in a Group F encounter which ended 3-3 on October 22, a match the Nigerian side described as their most testing group match. They had to draw level after going two goals down by the 20th minute, and they still had to come from behind to pick a point from the match with nine minutes to go. Today, however, the Eaglets have to do better as they have more at stake. In this their seventh semi-final appearance, the Eaglets have a handful to prove against a Swedish team making their debut in the competition. So far, the Nigerians have proven their strength with 20 goals while conceding five in four wins and one draw so far. The Swedes have scored 11 goals and conceded 7, from three wins, one draw and one loss. However, one player the Nigerian team should be wary of is Valmir Berisha who got a brace in their Group F meeting. Berisha, a lofty Swedish striker, has been instrumental in his side’s progress at the competition. But in Success Isaac and Musa Yahaya, scorers against Sweden earlier, as well as Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi and Musa Mohammed, the Eaglets seem to be up to the task. As it is, both teams would have to do without one player each — Sweden’s Viktor Nordin and Nigeria’s Akinjide Idowu — due to suspension. Looking ahead to the match, Nigeria’s goalkeeper Dele Alampasu who has conceded five goals, with three of them against Sweden, said he has learnt his lessons. He told theNews Agency of Nigeria, “I wasn’t myself then. I messed up coming off my line for the first goal and that weighed on me afterwards. I was a bit lost after the first goal and before I could get myself back in the game, I was called on again and everything went wrong. “But, I thank God I got over it against Iraq when we won 5-0 and I won’t make the same mistakes against Sweden. I’ve learnt my lesson.” Nigerians are hoping to see the Eaglets play the final match on Friday.

Glo justifies BlackBerry tariff slash Telecommunications operator, Globacom, has said the rationale behind the slashing of its BlackBerry tariff by half is to encourage Nigerians to use data more frequently. In a statement, the firm said the unprecedented move was aimed at liberalising access to the modern tool for social and business networking. In addition to the tariff drop, it said there was a considerable increase in the data allowance for both BlackBerry 10 plans and the generic BlackBerry plans. The statement signed by Globacom’s Coordinator, Marketing, Mr. Adeniyi Olukoya, explained that the Absolute Month platform, which hitherto was N2,800 with 3GB data, now goes for N1,000 with 3GB data. The Absolute Week plan goes for N500 with 700MB and the co-month and co-week plans go for N899 and N400 with data allowance of 3GB and 700MB respectively. According to the company, the new BlackBerry subscription tariffs are for both old and new customers. The statement said, “Globacom is the first network to introduce BlackBerry service in Nigeria and we have continued to maintain the lead by offering subscribers the best and most pocket-friendly BlackBerry rates. Glo always has exciting offers for both existing and potential customers. “We are offering these new tariffs to encourage Nigerians to use data more frequently. This will make life more abundant for our subscribers.”

Bayern without Robben Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola will have to make do without the services of Arjen Robben for this week’s Champions League game against Viktoria Plzen as the Dutchman remains sidelined due to injury. Robben picked up a hamstring problem against Hertha Berlin last week and consequently missed the 2-1 Bundesliga win over Hoffenheim on Saturday. The 29-year-old was initially expected to be match fit again in time for Tuesday’s Group D clash against Plzen, but Bayern has now announced on its website that Robben will remain in Munich to continue working on an individual training program. The winger has been a key figure for Bayern so far this season, scoring eight goals in 15 appearances in all competitions. Bayern currently sits atop its Champions League group with nine points from three games and will qualify for the knockout stage with a win over Plzen.

Adebayor must be patient, says Villas-Boas Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas says striker Emmanuel Adebayor will have to remain patient in his bid for first-team football. The 29-year-old admitted he was despondent after failing to break into the starting XI at White Hart Lane this season. Roberto Soldado has been Villas-Boas’ preferred choice as a lone striker in Premier League matches this term, with Jermain Defoe being utilised for the club’s UEFA Europa League campaign. Despite seeing Tottenham draw a blank in Sunday’s 0-0 draw at Everton, the Portuguese says Adebayor will have to prove his worth on the training ground. “Obviously every player counts for us,” he said. “We have Defoe on eight goals, Soldado on six. Sometimes we start with a 4-4-2 (formation), then that can change to a 4-2-3-1 with one striker up front, so there is competition for places and you have to try and break your way into the team. “No matter how hard you try the others are trying just as hard as you. So you have to be patient and wait for your opportunity whenever it arises. I think that is the nature of any top club in the country.”

Manchester United doubling their offer on failed summer target? Manchester United manager David Moyes in alleged link with 29-year-old playmaker. The one glaring flaw inManchester United's performances to date is, despite their recent undefeated run in thePremier League, how their collective chance creation pales in comparison to the teams around them in the division such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool. While those four clubs can call upon Mesut Ozil, Eden Hazard, David Silva or Philippe Coutinho/Steven Gerrard, United still operate without an elite-level recognised playmaker and, of all their midfielders, it is the deeper-lying midfielder Michael Carrick who has contributed the most key passes - 12, which is still four shy of the further afield Wayne Rooney, on 16. Their statistics also fall some way short of the top end teams who do possess a high-end maker of plays such as Ozil (22), who only joined the Arsenal in September and missed threePremier League match-days, Hazard (19) and Silva (27). Even though the transfer window does not re-open for activity for another two months, that has not stopped the speculation, as United are linked with a return for a summer target whom they attempted to sign for6m only this time,The People last week claimed they will double the offer in January to12m. That player isGalatasaray's 'no 10';Wesley Sneijder, who was once a fundamental part in Internazionale's all-conquering side of 2009-10 but who left at the turn of the current calender year for a measly7m to join the Turkish Super Lig kings. Sneijder remains an attacking threat. In his first five months as a Gala player he returned four goals and one assist in 16 appearances in all competitions while there are five goals and one assist to his name from 12 appearances thus far this season. In Champions League competition alone, he has featured thrice, scored once, hit the target with 67% of his shots, completed 84% of his passes (with an average distance of 18 metres), won 50% of his duels and created five chances. Sneijder has competed and been effective in four top tiers: the Eredivisie, La Liga, Serie A and Super Lig, so there should be no question marks over his ability to adapt to another division and, with a transfermarkt.co.uk value of15m, the Dutchman surely represents value for money. The question is… will United bid that much for a player they attempted to sign for6m in the summer?

Luis Suarez interviewed in France on Evra, PSG link, and what would drive him crazy Liverpool'sLuis Suarez has given an interview in France where he discusses everything from his clash with Manchester United defender Patrice Evra. Never out of the news,Luis Suarez is in a good place right now, appearing fully committed toLiverpool after a tumultuous summer. He has given an interview with French radio station RMC this week on a variety of topics, and here is the pick of what he has had to say: On Liverpool: "The expectation is huge. This season, we started well, with the desire and hope. There was no Europa Cup to compete allowing us to be 100% focused on the championship. This season in thePremier League , the level is very tight. It can all happen against anyone, it's important for us to take advantage of this." PSG and Edinson Cavani: "We often talk together, especially our family. But we also talk about football. The last time we talked about his transfer to PSG . He wanted to change clubs and play in a team that aspires to win the Champions League." (Asked if Cavani had asked him to join him at PSG) "No. He said he is happy in Paris, he is happy with the big club he discovered, its partners and the way we look at football in France. He asked me a lot about it because it is like what I know in England." On Real Madrid: "There are always rumoirs. Sometimes too many. If I had to play in all the clubs in which the press has sent me, I would have gone crazy. I stay away from all that." On Patrice Evra: "It's part of the past. This controversy has hurt me because I had to justify myself without any proof on me. I was punished without the evidence that put me in question. Today, I do not think that far."

Arsenal Linked With Unstoppable Forward Who Is Outscoring Lionel Messi Arsenal are considering a move forAtletico Madrid star and formerLiverpool targetDiego Costa in January as they look to reinforce their striking options, according to theDaily Star. Costa, 25, turned down a move to Anfield in the summer in favour of signing a new contract at Atletico, but remained loyal to the team that gave him his chance of success in La Liga. Costa said:“I was close to leaving, Liverpool are a great team, but after fighting so hard and overcoming difficulties to get my place at Atletico, how could I leave? “I thought that it was very important for me to continue growing in this club and to play here for many years.” The Brazilian has been in sensational form for Los Rojiblancos with 13 goals in 12 La Liga games so far this season, and has recently announced his intention to play for Spain over his native Brazil. Costa has been in lethal form this season, converting an incredible 39.1% of his chances

First choice Manchester United ace 'doubtful' for Arsenal clash What does Manchester United potentially missing Rafael mean for their weekend clash withArsenal? Rafael da Silva is a major doubt forManchester United's match withArsenal at the weekend, but dothe Gunners have the personnel to exploit his absence? Last season was a coming of age one forRafael da Silva, the right-back was superb on a consistent basis on United's way to winning the league, with memorable goals against QPR and Liverpool. This campaign has been a frustrating one so far for the Brazilian. After a hamstring injury delayed his start to the season, he returned to the first team, and was then taken off at half-time against Fulham with another suspected knock. Manager David Moyes has confirmed the defender has been left at home for their Champions League match with Real Sociedad, suffering ankle ligament damage. The Telegraph report that Rafael faces a 'battle to be fit' for Sunday's 4.10pm kick-off against Arsenal, and is officially 'doubtful.' They add: "United's medical staff have yet to rule Rafael out of the Arsenal game, but he is understood to be 'touch and go' for the clash with Arsene Wenger's team." Potentially it is a very big boost for Arsenal in the pivotalPremier League match, with United lacking a proven specialist back-up. Phil Jones covered for Michael Carrick in midfield at the weekend, and could be needed there again, with Chris Smalling more likely to deputise - as he ably did for England at Wembley against Poland last month. It is however no simple injury boost for Arsenal, with their own left-back Kieran Gibbs, who would have clashed with Rafael on the flank, also battling his own fitness issues with a calf strain. Arsenal also do not possess a top class left-winger who could cause United problems. There certainly won't be a repeat of the mismatch which saw Antonio Valencia bamboozle Andre Santos at Old Trafford last season. Arsene Wenger played Santi Cazorla out on the left against Liverpool, and likely will again, but the Spaniard is not a traditional winger, and is most dangerous when he cuts inside, as evidenced by his goal against Liverpool. His best hope of success is to pull Smalling out of position and inside, and hope Arsenal's left-back, whether it be Gibbs or Monreal can take advantage of the space by double teaming the defender. Manchester United fans will surely be crossing their fingers Rafael is fit to return, but if not the onus will switch tothe Gunners to see if they can expose the fact the champions are without their first choice right-back

David Moyes taking nothing for granted against Real Sociedad Manchester United boss David Moyes is wary of the threat posed by Real Sociedad despite the Spanish side failing to win a point in the Champions League this season. United flew out to Spain on Monday ahead of Tuesday's Group A encounter in the knowledge that a win would take them to 10 points with two games remaining and secure their passage into the knock-out stages. Sociedad lost to an injury-time goal to Bayer Leverkusen earlier in the competition, while an early own goal was their undoing at Old Trafford two weeks ago, but Moyes is focused on extending his side's seven-match unbeaten run. "I certainly won't take anything for granted," he said. "I have a lot of respect for Sociedad, and we will have to play well on Tuesday if we are going to get those 10 points which will get us over the line. "But we have got ourselves in a good position in the group and we have to try to maintain that." United's Champions League progress has been in marked contrast to their early-season Premier League struggles. "There is nothing which we have done differently," Moyes said. "Everything we're doing in this Champions League we're doing in the Premier League as well. "The players are used to it. They are experienced at this level and that helps. I hope that continues."

Palmeiras rubbish links to Zenit St Petersburg striker Hulk Brazilian outfit Palmeiras admit to being admirers of Zenit St Petersburg striker Hulk, but have no plans to bring him home. Palmeiras will be toasting their centenary in 2014, and a marquee signing has been mooted to tie in with the celebrations. Plenty of speculation has suggested that Hulk is the man in their sights, with the burly frontman known to be a supporter of the club. Any deal would, however, come at a price, with Zenit having spent big to secure Hulk's services in September 2012. The Russian outfit have not entirely ruled out the prospect of a loan switch being sanctioned, but interested parties have been quoted eye-watering fees. With that situation unlikely to change any time soon, Palmeiras accept that a deal for the 27-year-old is out of their reach. Executive director Jose Carlos Brunoro told Globo Esporte on the Hulk rumours: "We are always interested, but that is a lie. "There is no chance that happens. We haven't even thought about it."

joelikan: Arsenal Star Looks Forward to Difficult Match Agai...

joelikan: Arsenal Star Looks Forward to Difficult Match Agai...

Arsenal Step Up Interest In Striker After Andrade Admission Arsenal are set to step up their efforts to sign Alexandre Pato after Corinthians director Roberto de Andrade admitted the club are willing to sell the striker this January. Newspaper reports in recent days have linked both us and rivals Tottenham with the former AC Milan forward, who moved to Corinthians just 11 months ago after ending a six-year stay at the San Siro. Pato revealed just last week that he turned down the chance to join Spurs in the summer while Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is believed to be in the market for a new front man when the transfer window re-opens this winter and Pato is on his radar. Andrade feels it would difficult for the 24-year-old to move to another Brazilian side but admitted he could be sold if Arsenal or Spurs come in with a substantial offer. “Given his value, I think it is difficult for him to move to another Brazilian club,” “If the two clubs [Arsenal and Tottenham] are interested in Pato we do not exclude to sell him during the winter transfer market.” Andrade is quoted as saying in theStar The Star claim that we will now step up our interest in the Brazilian international following this admission and hope to beat Tottenham to his signature. A new striker is a must in January and Pato would be a decent addition to the squad. He’s a huge talent and would certainly be an asset, so hopefully we could do a deal with Corinthians and bring him in this January.

Tomas Rosicky Talks Arsenal and Dortmund Ahead of Champions League Clash Arsenal's veteran midfielder Tomas Rosicky may be one of the oldest players in Arsenal's team now, but he still knows how to have fun. The crafty midfielder may not be the same player he was five years ago, but his current contributions to the Gunners and his ability to deputize when needed have made him reliable and a fan favorite. Rosicky put in another admirable shift against Liverpool this weekend, only being replaced by Nacho Monreal in the second when Arsene Wenger looked to give the Gunners a bit more defensive shape and cover down the left hand side. Speaking toArsenal's website about the Gunners' current crop of midfielders, Rosicky expressed the fun he has when he he's on the pitch. “It's fun to play with players like Ozil and Cazorla,” he said. “They can pass the ball so quickly and creatively. I think you can see we have fun on the pitch - if you have that it's great. “We needed this result to react positively after the negative result [against Chelsea]. It was a great game, an intense game from both sides and obviously we are happy to win so it's very pleasant. “It's great to be [five points clear], no doubt about it, but for me it's too soon, the season is very long. Of course we would like to stay there on top of the league, it's a good feeling to be there but it's too soon, it doesn't mean a lot at this time. But it's not a bad feeling I have to admit and I would like to stay there.” Arsenal take on Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday, and for Rosicky, the midweek match represents a very special day. The Czech Republic midfielder made 126 league appearances for the Bundesliga side during his stint in Germany and will know what to expect when his side visit Signal Iduna Park. “It will definitely be [special] because I spent five and a half years there and in the 14 years I've played professional football, I’ve played for just three teams,” he said. “I spent five years there, won the league there and played in the Uefa Cup final there so obviously I have a lot of attachments and it will be a special game for me.” Rosicky has made 10 appearances this year for Arsenal, with three appearances in the Champions League. With Arsenal, Napoli, and Borussia Dortmund all even on six points in Group F, Wednesday's games will play a massive role in determining who advances from the group stage.

Arsenal Star Looks Forward to Difficult Match Against Borussia Dortmund The positivity and confidence appears to be back in Arsenal's game once again after a great performance against Liverpool on Sunday. The 2-0 win over Liverpool not only earned them a five-point advantage in the table, but it also gave them a much needed win ahead of the trip to Borussia Dortmund. Dortmund's late winner at the Emirates stadium coupled with the loss to Chelsea a few days later appeared to have taken the early season confidence out of the team. However, Arsenal seemed to be back at their best even without players like Mathieu Flamini. The 2-1 loss to Dortmund a couple of weeks ago has also put Arsenal's Champions League group in delicate balance. Arsenal, Dortmund, and Napoli are all level on points after the first three rounds. Speaking ahead of the away trip, Mikel Arteta said toSky Sports that this game will be huge. "The Dortmund game is huge. We knew this week was going to be tough and this is a good way to start it. Dortmund will be a very different game to Liverpool, with the way they play, so we will have to get ready for it. "I didn't think Dortmund were the better team when they won at the Emirates last time. We don't want to go to Napoli needing a win." Napoli have a home match against Marseille, who are struggling in the group. The Italians are expected to take three points. This would leave Arsenal with a mountain to climb if they lose on Wednesday night. Arsenal prepared for this match with a win over Liverpool, while Dortmund helped themselves to six goals and three points against Stuttgart. This was their fourth consecutive win in all competitions, and it seems that they are getting their swagger back. It appeared that Arsenal were simply not prepared for the level of pressing from the Germans, but they should have learnt from their mistakes. This will be third of the four difficult matches in a row for Arsenal. A trip to Old Trafford awaits the Gunners on Sunday and it could affect the team selection since Wenger may not want some of his stars to play three tough matches in a row.

Julio Cesar: Interested in a January move but Sao Paulo have ruled out a deal Sao Paulo have denied holding an interest in Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Julio Cesar after the Brazilian admitted he could be ready to move in January. Cesar is currently recovering from a finger operation but he has not played for QPR this season and is keen to get some regular football under his belt leading up to the World Cup. He has admitted that he is willing to listen to offers but Sao Paulo have now followed Internacional in ruling out a swoop for Cesar, while they have no plans to bring in Vagner Love or Fred either. "We will do our planning as we identify our needs," vice-president Joao Paulo de Jesus Lopes told the Brazilian press. "But for many reasons it's silliness to say we will sign Julio Cesar. I ask myself if it's a political attempt to unsettle [current goalkeeper] Rogerio Ceni or our board as we have a big affection for Rogerio." He added: "There is no chance we bring in Julio Cesar, just like there is no chance we bring other problems. When I say problems, I am referring to Fred and Vagner Love, who are not our targets." Cesar has also received the backing of fellow Brazilian goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes, who played under Harry Redknapp at Tottenham. Gomes says he had problems with Redknapp and has suggested that the manager's treatment of Cesar at QPR shows that he finds it hard to work with Brazilians. Gomes is quoted as telling ESPN Brasil: "Julio Cesar has a manager whose ideas are almost impossible to change. "He was my manager at Tottenham and I had a lot of difficulties. He doesn't like South Americans much, especially Brazilians." Gomes believes Cesar has to consider leaving Loftus Road if he continues to remain on the sidelines. He said: "As for being a starter at the national team, they don't think much about that. Julio Cesar will have a lot of trouble if he stays at QPR. If he has the chance to leave, he has to leave so he can play. "I know him very well and I know how good he can be. "The goalkeeper is a position of manager's trust and if Scolari thinks Julio Cesar can play the World Cup and surely can, then he has to play at least from January onwards so he will be good and match fit for the World Cup. "But it would be interesting if he started playing so the manager feels more confident."

QPR keeper Julio Cesar not a target for Sao Paulo as Heurelho Gomes slams Harry Redknapp Sao Paulo have denied holding an interest in Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Julio Cesar after the Brazilian admitted he could be ready to move in January. Cesar is currently recovering from a finger operation but he has not played for QPR this season and is keen to get some regular football under his belt leading up to the World Cup. He has admitted that he is willing to listen to offers but Sao Paulo have now followed Internacional in ruling out a swoop for Cesar, while they have no plans to bring in Vagner Love or Fred either. "We will do our planning as we identify our needs," vice-president Joao Paulo de Jesus Lopes told the Brazilian press. "But for many reasons it's silliness to say we will sign Julio Cesar. I ask myself if it's a political attempt to unsettle [current goalkeeper] Rogerio Ceni or our board as we have a big affection for Rogerio." He added: "There is no chance we bring in Julio Cesar, just like there is no chance we bring other problems. When I say problems, I am referring to Fred and Vagner Love, who are not our targets." Cesar has also received the backing of fellow Brazilian goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes, who played under Harry Redknapp at Tottenham. Gomes says he had problems with Redknapp and has suggested that the manager's treatment of Cesar at QPR shows that he finds it hard to work with Brazilians. Gomes is quoted as telling ESPN Brasil: "Julio Cesar has a manager whose ideas are almost impossible to change. "He was my manager at Tottenham and I had a lot of difficulties. He doesn't like South Americans much, especially Brazilians." Gomes believes Cesar has to consider leaving Loftus Road if he continues to remain on the sidelines. He said: "As for being a starter at the national team, they don't think much about that. Julio Cesar will have a lot of trouble if he stays at QPR. If he has the chance to leave, he has to leave so he can play. "I know him very well and I know how good he can be. "The goalkeeper is a position of manager's trust and if Scolari thinks Julio Cesar can play the World Cup and surely can, then he has to play at least from January onwards so he will be good and match fit for the World Cup. "But it would be interesting if he started playing so the manager feels more confident."

Ozil blames Ancelotti for Madrid exit Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil, has hinted that Carlo Ancelotti is to blame, for his decision to quit Real Madrid and move to the Emirates during the summer transfer window. After the arrivals of Isco and Gareth Bale, the German felt as if he was no longer valued at the Santiago Bernabeu and suggested that he might have stayed if the Italian coach showed more faith in him. “It is very important for me that the coach shows faith in me and believes in me,” Ozil told TF1. “I had no doubt that I would stay at Real Madrid when last season came to an end. “But then something happened and I no longer had the coach’s trust. “At Arsenal on the other hand, I feel the exact opposite.” Ozil, 25, has seven Premier League appearances for Arsenal so far, scoring twice in the process.

Liverpool given a 'fighting chance' by manager Brendan Rodgers, despite defeat to Arsenal Liverpool are already “playing catch-up” on Barclays Premier League pace-setters Arsenal according to Reds manager Brendan Rodgers. The Northern Irishman refused to criticise his players despite a subdued showing in 2-0 league defeat at Arsenal on Saturday night. Arsenal put five points between the two sides thanks to goals from Santi Cazorla and Aaron Ramsey, with Rodgers admitting Arsene Wenger's men overran Liverpool in midfield. "They are winning the race," Rodgers said. "These 10 games we've all played, people talk about it being early, but you don't get them back. "You don't get to play them again so you've got to claim the points. "At the moment we're on 20 points and they're on 25. "The great thing is there's lots of time left to gain those points back, but at this moment in time they are high in confidence, playing well and they will be pleased with the win. "There's always disappointment when you lose a big game. We were happy when we beat Manchester United earlier in the season. "After 10 games there's always a good assessment of where you can go. "Look at Chelsea's squad, at Arsenal's squad even with the players who are out, and look at Manchester City's. "So for us to be where we are, that's where we want to be, we've shown that we're going to have a fighting chance." Rodgers admitted it will take time to build up a squad to match Liverpool's rivals, but is more than satisfied following their strong start to the league campaign. "We want to stay there. We know we're trying to build something here in the depth of our squad, and the nature of our game," he said. "Without a major investment that just takes a bit of time. "But listen, they're a team here, I watched them (Arsenal) against Napoli and they were brilliant, and that's top-end Champions League. "They are a very good side with very good players, and for us we're playing catch-up. "I think we've had a terrific start, but when you lose a game there will always be an analysis that will maybe be negative. "I can only be positive with what I've got, because they've given me everything." The Liverpool boss also hailed 21-year-old Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho's second-half impact at Arsenal in his first outing since undergoing shoulder surgery in mid-September. Rodgers said: "He's a wonderful player. He's a big talent for just under £8million. "He's remarkable: his feet, his talent, his ability on the ball. "He was great when he came on and of course we'd have loved to have started him. "But he's only really come back into the fold and got the clearance medically in the last few days." Rodgers confirmed right back Glen Johnson had been admitted to hospital suffering a 'freak illness' just before kick-off at Arsenal - but expects a quick recovery for the England defender. Despite an uncharacteristic off-the-boil showing from Steven Gerrard, Rodgers backed the Liverpool captain to shrug off a minor hip complaint and handle the fixture load with England's friendlies against Chile and Germany later this month. Rodgers added: "He took a knock towards the end, with his hip. "I'm not sure the complete diagnosis on it. "Stevie's been brilliant for me, it was a tough game for him, but we'll assess his injury and see where he's at. "Roy (Hodgson) has always handled Stevie really well, both when he was Liverpool manager and now the player is England captain, so I'm sure that will be fine."

Celebrating David Luiz, the Most Technically Gifted Defender in World Football Even after two-and-a-half years at Stamford Bridge,DavidLuiz is still an ongoing conundrum forChelsea. Signed by CarloAncelotti on deadline day in January 2011 for21 million,Luiz has established himself as a key member of the Champions League and Europa League-winning squads and has improved greatly as he continues to rise to the top of European football. Rarely has there ever been a defender so forward-thinking than DavidLuiz in the Premier League. The norm is for ahardline, 6'4" brute to win several aerial challenges in the game, while also flying into crunching challenges. Luiz is very much the opposite and represents a softer approach to the game, making him more suited for a foreign league such as La Liga orSerie A. It could explain why a club who pride themselves on their technical ability, Barcelona, wanted to signLuiz in the summer. The Catalan club made the former Vitoria defender their top target last summer and failed with a bid, believed to be around25 million,per BBC Sport, to signLuiz, who confirmed he had rejected a move to theNou Camp,per ESPN. One week the Brazilian will put in a magnificent performance, closing down the opposition with his gusto, no-nonsense approach, helping his side claim a clean sheet in the process. The next he'll nonchalantly dummy a pass back to the goalkeeper, putting his side in real danger of dropping points, just as he did in the 4-1 win over Cardiff two weeks back. It's this flailing inconsistency which has hinderedLuiz for the majority of his career to date, and perhaps prevents him from being mentioned in the same breath amongst the world's best footballers. But with his risky style of play comes a unique entertainment which is rarely sourced from defenders, rather more so midfielders and attackers. It's his confidence on the ball, the tendency to dribble it out from the back, or even skip past his opponent with a sublime piece of skill, which makes him a joy to watch. And equally, so frustrating. There's times where you want DavidLuiz to go on one of his amazing runs, which leads to a 35-yardpiledriver. However, withLuiz blocked in his own corner flag, it's arguably not one of the times to do so. Perhaps it's best just to embrace his spontaneous approach to football, even if as a footballer earning several millions of pounds a year, one of his mistakes alone could cost his club millions of pounds in revenue. Those who have closely followed the Brazilian from his days atBenfica will know that he is not your typical old-fashioned defender. He prefers not to stick to his position, and as a result, you may find a gaping hole in the back four as he attempts to win the ball high up the pitch. In truth, he is one of the best defenders at doing just that. Especially along the touchline, if there is a 50-50 tackle to be made, be rest assured that the 26-year-old will make a decent tackle to halt the attack. But if there is one attribute which separates him from the rest, it's his passing ability. There are two boxes to tick in terms of separating a good passer from an average one, with the first being vision. Many players can see a pass, but more often than not, the accuracy of their pass is below par. WithLuiz, he'll simply see a pass and play it. Calculating the risk involved simply doesn't cross his mind, and while sometimes this can be a risky tactic, the sheer perfection behind the pass enables his teammates to trust him on the ball. The technique he hits the ball with is quite refreshing, too. With a pass, he tends to take a quickly before launching the ball forward to his intended recipient. Regardless of whether it's on his right or left foot, he has the confidence to play the pass. Some might argue that he is suited better in the midfield, and there's nothing wrong in mentioning that, having seen the Brazil international perform admirably in the role in the past. But the argument against deploying the madcap centre-half in midfield is simple.

Arteta: Confidence is growing Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal are now striking fear into the hearts of their opponents after moving clear at the top of the Premier League. Well-taken goals from Santi Cazorla and Aaron Ramsey, the Wales midfielder's 10th of the season, provided the perfect response from Arsene Wenger's side to questions about their character in the wake of the midweek Capital One Cup exit at home to a second-string Chelsea side. The Gunners now head out to Germany for a crunch Champions League Group F showdown with Borussia Dortmund, who ran out 2-1 winners at the Emirates Stadium a fortnight ago. Spain midfielder Arteta, who captained the side again on Saturday, reckons people are now starting to sit up and take notice about what this Arsenal squad are capable of. "When you are at the top, compared to where we were last season, it is different," Arteta said. "We have more belief and are starting to create a bit of fear into the opposition. That is giving us a better chance to win the game. "When you are on a good run and the confidence level is high, it makes everything a bit easier." Despite beating second-placed Liverpool to record an eighth Premier League win from the opening 10 matches, the pundits continue to doubt whether Arsenal have what it takes to last the distance. Arteta said: "There are always different opinions. Some people have an unbelievable opinion about us, some others don't trust us. "But that is normal and we have to prove every week that we are good enough to be where we are." Arsenal face another stern examination of just what they can achieve in 2014 when they head to the Westfalenstadion for Wednesday night's clash with Jurgen Klopp's well-drilled outfit. A late goal from Poland forward Robert Lewandowski gave the German outfit victory in north London just when it seemed Arsenal had done enough to fight back and earn a draw. Arsenal are determined to get a positive result this time around, according to Arteta. "Dortmund will be a very different game, with the way they play, so we will have to get ready for it," the 31-year-old said. "We conceded a goal when we were on top in the game, and were likely to score a second to kill the game. "But we know in the Champions League against those teams you are limited to small chances, and it was our fault." Three sides are all locked on six points after Napoli beat pool whipping boys Marseille. The Italian side, coached by former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez, are set to travel to Dortmund on matchday five before hosting the Gunners in the final round of Group F fixtures on December 11. Arteta feels the battle for qualification could well go down to the wire. "When you look at the fixtures at the start of the group, it would have been strange if by the last game you are already qualified given the quality of the teams," he said. "So I would not be surprised if we need to go there (Naples) and get something."

Moyes: Rooney's a big leader Manchester United manager David Moyes has spoken of his pride at the way Wayne Rooney has transformed into a leader at Old Trafford. Few could have foreseen the 28-year-old playing such an important role for the Red Devils after a summer in which his future had looked in doubt. However, after Chelsea's overtures were rebuffed, the England forward has knuckled down and on Saturday helped United to a 3-1 Premier League victory at Fulham - their fourth straight win in all competitions. Rooney played a key part in the success at Craven Cottage, providing an assist, a goal and energy that allowed him to take hold of the match when the hosts threatened. The striker appears to be blossoming under Moyes' tutelage - a far cry from their well-documented fractious relationship at Goodison Park. "He is a big leader in the team and desperate for the team to be successful," the Scot said. "Obviously, having a successful team helps him as well. "He has got leadership qualities. He is a man when he is on the pitch. "On Saturday, we felt young Adnan (Januzaj) needed to drop in so I had to pull him out for the last 15 minutes to make sure we didn't do anything stupid. "He understands that and I think he is at an age now where he sees that as well." Rooney's assist and goal at Craven Cottage bookended a whirlwind 13 minutes in the first half. Antonio Valencia opened the scoring from the forward's pull back, with Robin van Persie netting before Rooney struck - a ruthlessness often lacking at United this season. "We have had spells like that but we haven't scored the goals," Moyes said. "I can think of two or three games very similar, where we have had that sort of play but not got the goals at the end of it. "I think it has been coming in a way, and thankfully on Saturday we got them quite early on." United are now slowly but surely quietening the naysayers, having gone unbeaten since losing at home to West Brom on September 28. Meanwhile, United Javier Hernandez sparked speculation over his future at the club on Sunday by apparently retweeting a link to a story in which he was encouraged to leave Old Trafford. Hernandez's verified Twitter account, @CH14-, posted a link to a story on the Sky Sports website in which his fellow Mexican Carlos Vela said he should look to leave United if he does not start playing more regularly. The 25-year-old striker came off the bench to score the winner in a 3-2 victory over Stoke a week ago but was an unused substitute for the win at Fulham. Hernandez has been in and out of the United side since signing from Guadalajara in 2010 and this season has struggled to earn a start in the league ahead of Van Persie and Rooney. In the article retweeted by Hernandez, Real Sociedad forward Vela said: "If he plays regularly he will score, so I don't totally understand why a player of his quality has not played more games. "If he doesn't play regularly he will need to think about leaving."

Fernando Torres' Resurgence Can Only Be Good News for Chelsea It might be a little too early to remark thatFernando Torres has returned to his "old self," but the intention is there, and the results are too. In literal terms, the phrase is incorrect because the "Torres of old" is a thing of the past. The player himself has aged as well as changing teams, and therefore, he will not ever be the same as he used to. Figuratively speaking, it's an exciting prospect. Not just forChelsea fans, but for English football in general. The media used to adore Torres, the way he ran at defenders such as Nemanja Vidic and made a complete fool of them. Sure, he was a little selfish at times, but that was accepted because he produced goals like they were running out of fashion. The Spaniard endured a tough start to his career at Chelsea, though, and he has never fully recovered. Just 16 Premier League goals in 89 games have followed since his50 million move fromLiverpool in January 2011. Torres himself accepts that his return is not good enough, per Goal.com: "The people are looking at me thinking I should do much better, and it's true. The reason you pay that money for someone is that he has shown in the past he is worth that." "Now, what you have to show is you can have the same value or even more value for things you have done at Chelsea." The key statistic here is that in only 79 games for Liverpool, he had already scored 56 times in the Premier League. Comparing the two records, one would feel slightly depressed if you were a Chelsea supporter. But in the summer, something changed. JoseMourinho arrived for a second stint at the club, six years after leaving by mutual consent. Many said that the Portuguese would get rid of Torres and bring in his own striker. ButMourinho clearly had other plans. The three pillars of his management are directly related to Torres: superb man management, whereby instilling confidence is essential, hard work and grit shown in the whole 90 minutes and having a winning mentality. What Torres needed was a confidence boost, andMourinho certainly gave him that chance. In the European Super Cup final againstBayern Munich, the Spaniard repaid the faith shown byMourinho to start him with a magnificent strike, curling a first-time effort past ManuelNeuer. The confidence he gained from starting the game, having that sense of backing fromMourinho, was crucial to his performance in that game. And perhaps, it was the starting point of where Torres changed his fortunes at Chelsea. Inevitably, the calls were too extreme on either side, either far too presumptuous or just outright critical. Was Torres back? Or was this just another glimpse in an otherwise fading career? The majority's view was that it was more the latter, and there was still much to be done. Since then, he's made 10 appearances in all competitions and has scored four times. Hardly prolific, for sure, but the statistics do not always tell the whole story. Against Tottenham, he was superb. Chasing every ball, running at players with a fire in his belly. This was what the old Torres was like, and he did everything apart from put the ball in the net. His sending off marred what could have been a memorable game for the 29-year-old, but he's come back stronger since then. Two goals againstSchalke, with a hat-trick certainly on the cards with Torres hitting the bar, showed that, perhaps, Chelsea could rely on the Spaniard as an actual threat in goal. And this was only reinforced when he impressed once more againstManchester City, using his attacking instinct to capitalise on Joe Hart's error and secure a vital three points for the Blues. The only problem for Chelsea is when to pick Torres and when to use the back-up options in SamuelEto'o andDemba Ba. Arguably, the latter would have been a better choice in the 2-0 loss to Newcastle, considering the physicality Alan Pardew's side played with, but other than that, his resurgence seems to be having a positive effect on the whole team, as well as the Spaniard. If he can continue his recent fine form, there's no reason to suggest why he can't challenge for the Golden Boot once more and help Chelsea to their first Premier League title in four years.

Premier League Team of the Week Welcome to the latest edition of our Premier League Team of the Week. There were about 30 incredible performances this weekend as a remarkable eight teams kept clean sheets. The defence was incredibly hard to choose, the midfield was also difficult, and some forwards left out will feel hard-done by. GK: Asmir Begovic, Stoke City RB: Mathieu Debuchy, Newcastle United CB: Steven Caulker, Cardiff City CB: Vlad Chiriches, Tottenham Hotspur LB: Jan Vertonghen, Tottenham Hotspur DM: Mikel Arteta, Arsenal CM: Aaron Ramsey, Arsenal CM: Yaya Toure, Manchester City AMC: David Silva, Manchester City ST: Wayne Rooney, Manchester United ST: Sergio Aguero, Manchester City

We have no excuses - Cech Petr Cech said there are no excuses after Chelsea lost 2-0 to Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Saturday lunchtime. The Blues lost to Newcastle after winning seven games on the bounce previously and Chelsea stopper Cech said his team had no excuses Cech told Chelsea TV: "Apart from the wind, we can't blame anything. The pitch was very good, very fast, and actually it was good to pass the ball, so this was not the reason why we didn't win. "There are no excuses, no pitch, no early kick-off, whatever. We didn't play well enough to win the game and that's why we lost. To be fair, they sat back because they were a bit afraid, so it was their plan. "You could see from the start they wanted to congest the pitch and that's why you don't have many chances to make the tempo and the game really running. But to be fair, we had enough possession, we had enough comfort on the ball, but we didn't find a pass.” It is the second season in a row that the Blues have lost at St James’ Park after losing 3-2 last year. Cech said: "It was exactly the same type of game as last year. We looked comfortable with the ball, we had more possession, but apart from the close thing we had at the beginning, we didn't find a pass to put them under pressure and to make more chances. "As the game went on at 0-0, they had more belief and the game became more difficult."

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ASUU warns FG against forced re-opening of varsities AS the strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities enters the fourth month, the union has flayed alleged plans by the Federal Government to forcefully order the re-opening of the universities today, saying this will only complicate the situation. Chairperson of the Uniport chapter of ASUU, Professor Anthonia Okerengwo, urged the Federal Government to toe the path of honour in its effort towards resolving the lingering strike. His University of Benin counterpart, Dr Anthony Money-Emina, described as laughable, reports that President Goodluck Jonathan will order the union members to go back to work today. Similarly, ASUU, University of Ibadan chapter, through its Secretary, Dr Ayodeji Omole, said such a report would further dent the image of the government as anti-democratic, cautioning President Jonathan to allow a sleeping dog lie by implementing the 2009 ASUU/FGN agreement which the Federal Government had already signed. ASUU vowed that it would not be intimidated into going back to the classroom, “unless our demands are met by the Federal Government.” ASUU Uniben said that the solution to the current industrial action embarked upon by members was for the Federal Government to come up with a clear agenda on how to implement the 2009 agreement and the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, entered with the union in 2012. Describing as laughable, reports that government will order the union members to go back to work, ASUU urged government to shun “authoritarian approaches to resolving issues in dispute with the union.” Money-Emina said, “The attention of our union has been drawn to news report in the media, alleging that the President will direct the re-opening of Nigerian universities with or without ASUU from Monday.” Professor Okerengwo in a statement said: “Arm twisting has never worked as a dispute resolution strategy. It is unacceptable to the union that while the President has invited the union leadership for a dialogue, some overzealous assistants to the president are clandestinely working to jeopardise the process. The surest and shortest route to industrial harmony in the university system and the fastest approach to revitalising university education is the implementation of 2009 agreement and the 2012 MOU,” the union said. UI-ASUU, while welcoming an invitation to ASUU for a meeting today, warned that it would be unacceptable to its members if government failed to come out with a clear agenda for implementing the 2009 agreement. It said “The attention of our union is drawn to news reports in the media alleging that President Goodluck Jonathan will direct the re-opening of all Nigerian universities with or without ASUU. “We wish to state that while the President had issued an invitation to the leaders of our union for dialogue, it will be unacceptable to our members if government fails to come out with a clear agenda for implementing the 2009 agreement. “Authoritarian posturing has never solved and will not solve the impasse. We are calling on Mr President to tow the path of honour and respect the 2009 Agreement.” It sounded a note of warning that “Any proposal not based on a clear acceptance of a framework for implementing the 2009 agreement will, instead, seek to impose a solution regarding the impasse, and will not be a solution to the present crisis.” Omole said it was laughable that a government which had earlier claimed to have released N100billion has not, in actual fact released even a kobo. He said ASUU as a body of intellectuals, which is ready to pursue the revatilisation of public education in Nigeria will purse same to its logical conclusion even with the stoppage of salaries.

Andre Villas-Boas slated for allowing stricken Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to play Andre Villas-Boas admitted that it was purely his decision to keep Hugo Lloris on the pitch after he was knocked out during the goalless draw at Everton. The Tottenham goalkeeper accidentally felt the full force of Romelu Lukaku's knee as the pair clashed when chasing a ball into the away box. Spurs' medical staff, along with captain Michael Dawson, urged Villas-Boas to take his man off. Both Lloris and Villas-Boas were advised that he should be substituted after being knocked out cold, but the manager insisted that his No 1 was capable of continuing - going against expert advice. Lloris had lay motionless for a number of seconds and Villas-Boas told Sky Sports: 'The medical department was giving me signs that the player couldn't carry on because he couldn't remember where he was. 'That is the situation right now. Hugo still doesn't remember the impact but he was quite focused and quite determined to continue. 'When you see this kind of assertiveness from the player it means that he is able to carry on. 'It was my call to delay the substitution, you have to make a decision in situations like this. 'From my knowledge of football he seemed OK to continue.' But Villas-Boas was accused of risking his goalkeeper's safety by overruling medical staff, who recommended that Lloris should be substituted. Leading football medic Mark Leather said: 'The guidelines are that players shouldn't be allowed to carry on and instead be monitored. It's a risk for managers to take medical decisions on that matter and the more serious the injury the bigger the risk. 'The consequences can be drastic, fatal even. You don't really know about internal bleeding for a period of time.' Villas-Boas countered: 'I made the call to keep him on the pitch because of the signs he was giving. 'When you see this kind of assertiveness from the player it means that he is able to carry on. He was determined to continue and looked concentrated, driven and focused enough for me not to make the call to replace him. The saves he made after the incident proved that right.' Lloris was knocked out in the 78th minute and after lengthy treatment appeared to be heading off, with Brad Friedel ready to replace him. Referee Kevin Friend also appeared to suggest a substitution would be the best thing to do. However, the France international began to struggle with members of the medical team guiding him to the touchline and indicated he was fit enough to stay on, leading to Villas-Boas giving the signal to let him have his way. 'Hugo still doesn't recall everything about the incident,' said Villas-Boas. 'The medical department were giving me signs that the player couldn't carry on because he couldn't remember where he was. 'It was a very difficult moment for us and I am happy he is well.' But Mark Leather, Bolton Wanderers' head of sport development and a former head physio at Liverpool, said the full effects of concussion often only come to light in the hours following an incident, and can prove extremely serious. He said 'I recall an incident in amateur football when a 16-year-old suffered a clash of heads and went home feeling unwell. 'Later he had a brain haemorrhage that resulted in a long stay in hospital. 'It seemed innocuous but there was a slow bleed in his brain and he had symptoms similar to a stroke. These kinds of occurrence are not common but equally not rare enough to be disregarded. 'Sometimes you get away with it. If you have an insistent player it is very difficult but I would do my damnedest to get them off and into dressing room to be assessed by a neuro specialist - you can't do that on the pitch.'

Lille's Nolan Roux scores twice to beat Monaco and move up to second Nolan Roux scored twice as Lille beat Monaco 2-0 on Sunday night to leapfrog their opponents into second place in the French league. Roux scored from close range in the 27th minute before finishing off a counter attack with 18 minutes remaining. Lille kept a seventh straight clean sheet in Ligue 1 and are two points behind Paris Saint-Germain, while Monaco lost their second successive match, following their 1-0 defeat at Reims in the third round of the League Cup. "It's a great result," the Lille captain Rio Mavuba said. "After two rounds we were not even thinking about being placed between Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco." The Monaco playmaker João Moutinho created the first chance after five minutes with a drive from the edge of the penalty area that was punched away by the Lille goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama. The hosts then capitalised on a corner to open the scoring when the Lille centre-back Marko Basa outjumped the Monaco defence to win a header that Roux flicked home. The Lille defender Simon Kjaer nearly put his team in trouble with a weak back pass in the 36th minute but Enyeama came off his line to beat the Monaco winger Yannick Ferreira Carrasco to the ball and clear the danger. Radamel Falcao pounced on the loose ball but the Monaco striker could only shoot over the bar despite a gaping net. Roux nearly added a second goal on the stroke of half-time but the Monaco goalkeeper Danijel Subasic palmed away the Lille striker's cross-shot. The Monaco coach, Claudio Ranieri, added more firepower to his ranks, replacing Carrasco with the forward Emmanuel Rivière at half-time, as they went in search of an equaliser. "We had a poor first half," Rivière said. "Then we had chances to rally. Unfortunately their keeper made great saves." Rivière collected a pass from James Rodríguez and was through on goal in the 67th minute, only to be denied by Enyeama. The Lille goalkeeper was again called into action in the 71st minute, stopping a powerful strike from Falcao. A few seconds later Salomon Kalou punished Monaco. Kalou released Mavuba down the left wing and the Lille captain's low cross was turned in by Roux from close range. Enyeama showed his pedigree in stoppage time with a double save, first parrying an angled strike from Falcao and then reacting quickly to prevent Rivière from converting the rebound.

Javier Hernández re-tweets story querying future at Manchester United Javier Hernández has placed a question mark against his future at Manchester United after re-tweeting a story suggesting he should look to leave the club because of limited first-team opportunities. The striker, via his Twitter account, re-tweeted a Sky Sports article to his 2.5m followers but later removed it. It contained quotes from his Mexico team-mate Carlos Vela who said "there will be big teams in England and Europe wanting him" should Hernández leave Old Trafford. "Javier is my good friend and I hope he gets lots of chances this season at Manchester United," said the former Arsenal forward who is now with Real Sociedad and preparing to face United in the Champions League on Tuesday. "He is one of the best finishers in England and deserves chances under the new coach. If he plays regularly he will score, so I don't totally understand why a player of his quality has not played more games. "If he doesn't play regularly, he will need to think about leaving. You always want to succeed at the biggest clubs but, if he is not given the chance, there will be big teams in England and Europe wanting him." Hernández was an unused substitute in United's 3-1 win at Fulham on Saturday and has played second fiddle this season to Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie.

Arsenal fans should start to believe... the Gunners really can end trophy drought 'We are top of the league,' chanted the buoyant Arsenal fans as they disappeared down the turnstiles after extending their lead at the summit of the Premier League table to five points after 10 games. For an audience weened on a diet of false dawns in recent times, there is a wariness about excessive optimism among those on the terraces. There were no ditties predicting 'We're going to win the league.' Not yet. They know better in these parts. Nine years of trophy famine has that kind of effect, even on the supporters of a club of Arsenal's illustrious past. But should Arsenal continue to produce performances like this, the rank and file will truly start to believe that their side can reclaim the title for the first time since 2004. Against Liverpool, Arsenal were at their brilliant best, bursting with fluid counter-attacking and electric movement. The tempo to Arsenal's game was blistering, blurs of red hunting in packs and forcing errors from a Liverpool side usually so well-oiled in receiving the ball under pressure. Aaron Ramsey was terrific again, powering into tackles to win the ball from Steven Gerrard and dispossessing Lucas Leiva with the sheer force of his upper body strength on two occasions in the first half. This is a determined, gifted player at the peak of his game, totally confident in his abilities and driving Arsenal forward on every occasion. His tenth goal of the season was no fluke, dipping unerringly over Mignolet and into the top corner to double Arsenal's lead and finish the game as a serious contest. If the end of season awards were handed out at Christmas, Ramsey would be the leading contender for the individual prize. He has been that good. Perhaps only playing due to the enforced absence of Jack Wilshere, Santi Cazorla was the star turn, stationed on the left-wing but roaming here, there and everywhere demanding the ball, committing opponents and making things happen. One sharp turn on the half-way line left Steven Gerrard on his backside, chasing back in bewilderment. The Spaniard's half-volley to open the scoring after nineteen minutes was so sweetly struck and perfectly executed. Alongside him, Ozil delivered another performance glistening with star quality, the ball seemingly adhered to his left foot, as he gave the slip to Lucas Leiva and Jordan Henderson time after time. The German was so sleek, so composed, always keeping a cool head in a frenetic midfield battle. Addressing the Manchester Lowry audience earlier this week, Sir Alex Ferguson reminisced about Eric Cantona, noting that the Frenchman 'made a simple pass look great'. The same can be said of the majestic Ozil, who appears effortless yet mesmerisingly precise in his distribution. Luis Suarez Confidence flooded through the Arsenal ranks and their development into serious contenders is embodied as much by Olivier Giroud, all sparky attacking and selfless endeavour, as the headline acts of Cazorla and Ozil. Up against three centre backs, the Frenchman embraced the challenge and was influential once again on Saturday. His intelligent movement and robust hold-up play stretched the Liverpool defence, pulling Kolo Toure and Mamadou Sakho out to the wide areas and freeing up space for the supporting cast to exploit. Liverpool's experimental 3-5-2 formation didn't work, with Brendan Rodgers' players looking uncomfortable from back to front. Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet sliced two clearances and dropped a cross. Aly Cissokho, as the left wing-back was completely out of his depth, exposed as a liability defensively and equally unconvincing in his attacking forays, running into cul-de-sacs and squandering possession. He was subbed at the break by Rodgers, who introduced Coutinho and restored a more familiar 4-4-2 formation. They immediately looked more assured, as Liverpool briefly rallied at the beginning of the second half. Suarez twice sprinted in behind the home defence and only the timely intervention of Laurent Koscielny and a miscued volley by Jordan Henderson spared Arsenal's errant offside trap. Often hailed as a tactical innovator, Rodgers got it wrong here. Gerrard was unusally off-the-pace, Leiva was overwhelmed by the sheer ferocity of Arsenal's pressing. Still, that potent striking partnership of Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez remained menacing, always on the move and worrying defenders. But the two never really clicked as a duo on this occasion. Even the best have off nights and attention should be focused on Arsenal's formidable centre-back pairing, with the organisational qualities of Per Mertesacker perfectly complementing Laurent Koscielny's more impulsive tendencies. Arsenal didn't need a Suarez figure here and the home fans teased the Uruguayan, singing 'You should have signed for a big club'. Given Liverpool's heritage, it was a little disingenuous but it was that kind of night for Arsenal fans, when everything made sense.

Hugo is my No 1 Hugo Lloris is the best goalkeeper in the Premier League. He thinks and plays like an outfield player, anticipates danger and is comfortable with the ball at his feet. He allows Tottenham’s defence to play a high line because they trust him to be on his toes and covering behind as their sweeper keeper and because he reads the game like an extra defender. He may be caught out off his line at some stage (watch out for a brilliantly executed chip this season) but he is the reason for Tottenham’s impressive defensive record.

Caulker is my Star man of the weekend Steven Caulker is the king of Wales, but how long will he stay at Cardiff? He’s so good he could play for Manchester United in the Champions League. Tottenham didn’t want to sell him but he forced their hand because he wanted first-team football. On Sunday he showed what he can offer. His goal will bring greater attention but his performances all season have been first-class. No disrespect to Cardiff, but this move is just a stepping stone for Steven. He’s ahead of Phil Jones as a centre back right now and he could gatecrash the England World Cup squad.

why Cattermole deserves sympathy. Lay off Lee Lee Cattermole won’t receive much sympathy, but he gets some from me. He was sent off at Hull (for the seventh time in his career) because of his reputation. If it had been another midfielder sliding in like that on a rolling Ahmed Elmohamady, it would have been yellow. Cattermole plays with fire in his belly and Gus Poyet will need plenty of that, but Lee may have to change his ways and stay on his feet. He’s a good tackler and it’s unfair but he may never be allowed to slide in again because referees are out to get him. He was guilty of making it too easy for Andre Marriner to do just that.

Ramsey has to aim to double his goal tally. Golden Boy Aaron Aaron Ramsey had scored 11 goals in all competitions in his Arsenal career up to this summer. This season he has scored 10 already, adding another screamer against Liverpool. Now he needs to go for 20, like Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard have done in the past. Cesc Fabregas scored 15 league goals in 2009-10, the best return from an Arsenal midfielder in the Premier League era. Ramsey has six so far, but he is talented, confident and capable of more. Goalscoring midfielders are like gold dust. P.S.It’s Manchester United v Arsenal next Sunday... the champions against the league leaders. United have been slow starters this season and the gap is eight points, but they are showing signs of finding their rhythm and in six days we will find out if they have.

Ramsey has to aim to double his goal tally. Golden Boy Aaron Aaron Ramsey had scored 11 goals in all competitions in his Arsenal career up to this summer. This season he has scored 10 already, adding another screamer against Liverpool. Now he needs to go for 20, like Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard have done in the past. Cesc Fabregas scored 15 league goals in 2009-10, the best return from an Arsenal midfielder in the Premier League era. Ramsey has six so far, but he is talented, confident and capable of more. Goalscoring midfielders are like gold dust. P.S.It’s Manchester United v Arsenal next Sunday... the champions against the league leaders. United have been slow starters this season and the gap is eight points, but they are showing signs of finding their rhythm and in six days we will find out if they have.

Sven: I signed to manage United. Sven-Goran Eriksson says he signed to manage Manchester United while Alex Ferguson was still boss. FORMER England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has claimed that he signed a contract to succeed Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2002. The Swede, who coached England between 2001 and 2006, made the claim in his new autobiography, in which he also revealed that he clashed with Ferguson over Wayne Rooney's participation at the 2006 World Cup. Start of sidebar.Skip to end of sidebar. End of sidebar.Return to start of sidebar. Ferguson announced that he would step down as United manager in 2002 and although he later reversed his decision, Eriksson says he struck a deal with the club to replace the Scot. In an extract from his book published in British newspaper the Mail on Sunday, Eriksson wrote:"I knew it would be tricky. I had a contract with England until the 2006 World Cup and I would be severely criticised if I broke that contract. "But this was an opportunity to manage Manchester United. A contract was signed - I was United's new manager." Eriksson included Rooney in his squad for the 2006 World Cup in Germany despite the striker having broken a bone in his foot shortly before the squad was announced. Eriksson claims that Ferguson did not want to release Rooney for the tournament, prompting a clash between him and England doctor Leif Sward. "Leif and I met Ferguson and United's doctor at the United training ground," Eriksson wrote. "'He cannot play in the World Cup', Ferguson said flatly. The doctor brought out some X-rays that he said showed Rooney's broken bone would not heal in time. "When the doctor finished, Leif looked him in the eye. 'Why do you sit here and lie to me?' Leif asked. "He was one of Europe's foremost specialists on this kind of injury. I just wish I could have filmed Ferguson's face when Leif explained that Wayne's break would heal in time for the World Cup. "When Leif had finished, I turned to Ferguson. 'Sorry, Alex,' I said. 'I will pick Rooney.'" Rooney went to the tournament but underperformed and was sent off for stamping on Ricardo Carvalho during England's quarter-final against Portugal, who beat them on penalties.

Cabaye's free-kick was a thing of beauty. That free-kick from Newcastle’s Yohan Cabaye against Chelsea was a beauty. The delivery looked like it came attached with an invite to say ‘Go on then, head it’. And Yoan Gouffran did exactly that. Some players try to strike the ball with too much power, as if firing a cannonball. Not everyone can be like Cristiano Ronaldo. Cabaye took something off the ball, but still arrowed it into the box. The flight of the deadball possessed dare and menace, dipping and moving on its way in. There is a 10-yard optimum area to aim for. Too short and the defenders will head it clear, too long and the goalkeeper will claim it. I was pleased for Alan Pardew, but he did make me smile. He summoned Cabaye all the way to the touchline from centre field to give him instructions, but I played against Alan... he wouldn’t know how to take a free-kick like that! It was a bold move by him to omit Hatem Ben Arfa, who can be their magician but can also be their passenger. This was a big win to follow their lacklustre performance in the derby against Sunderland the weekend before. His team must have Pardew tearing his hair out as they drift from useless to brilliant.

Boateng could be denied World Cup. Kevin-Prince Boateng risk missing out of the World CupKevin-Prince Boateng could miss out of the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals if he fails to play in this month's playoff return leg against Egypt in Cairo, according to a Ghana FA official. There is growing suspicion that the former Germany youth international is choosing and picking international matches after missing the last two matches. Boateng, who rescinded his decision to quit international football in August, reported to camp for the final Group D qualifier against Zambia at home but sat out due to injury. Last month he suffered an ankle problem for his Bundesliga side Schalke and was unavailable for the 6-1 drubbing of Egypt in Kumasi in the playoff first leg. Black Stars management committee member Yaw Boateng Gyan, who played key role in persuading the former AC Milan star to return to the Black Stars, has suggested time could be running out for the talented midfielder. "There is no such player only cut for qualification and others only for tournaments," Boateng Gyan, relative of Kevin, is reported to have told Kumasi-based Metro FM. "It is a collective effort and therefore if he [Boateng] keeps turning down invites to play with the other players during the qualification series including this last match then I think that will be it. "We have done our best and yes, he is my relative but the truth of the matter is that if he keeps up with this attitude of not turning up for games then he better count himself out of the World Cup." It will be recalled that Boateng gained global recognition after playing for Ghana at the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa after a nationality switch. Ghana will face Egypt on 19 November in Cairo and must prevent a five-nil defeat to qualify to the World Cup finals for the third straight time.

Eaglets vow Sweden will fall now! Golden Eaglets coach Manu Garba has said he hopes to go past group rivals Sweden in Tuesday’s U17 World Cup semi-final. The Eaglets had to draw on their rich experience to draw 3-3 with Sweden in a Group F match in Al Ain penultimate week, but Manu said it would be a different ball game when the two teams meet again in the semi-final at the Rashid Stadium in Dubai. With a total of 20 goals in five matches, the Eaglets remain the best attacking team at the 2013 U17 World Cup and Manu said his team will be ready to see off the Swedes. “I want to congratulate the boys for a job well done against Uruguay and Sweden should be ready for our fireworks in the semi-final on Tuesday," he said. "We have learned so much playing against Sweden the last time, but we shall be ready for them this time around.” With African champions Cote d'Ivoire bundled out by Argentina 2-1 in an earlier quarterfinal played at the same Stadium, Manu noted the onus is now on the Golden Eaglets to carry the banner of the continent. "It is unfortunate that our African brothers Cote d’Ivoire are out of the tournament, but we are going to fly the flag of the continent since so much would be expected of us now," he noted.

Emenike scores again! Emenike has now scored four goals for FenerbacheEmmanuel Emenike scored his fourth goal for Fenerbache as they won 3-2 at Bursaspor on Saturday. The Nigeria international striker has come off a barren run in front of goal since his arrival in the summer from Russian club Spartak Moscow. Such form bodes very well for Nigeria ahead of a return leg 2014 World Cup playoff against Ethiopia on November 16 in Calabar after Emenike scored twice in Addis Ababa last month. The win means Fenerbahce remain on top of the league table with 25 points from 10 games. The former Spartak Moscow forward was on song in the 83rd minute to give Fenerbahce a 2-1 lead. Compatriot Taye Taiwo was on from start to finish for Bursaspor.

Villas-Boas warns Spurs to avoid more Everton woe. Andre Villas-Boas has warned Tottenham cannot afford further setbacks if they want to feature in the Premier League title race. Spurs have already suffered two defeats this season and head to Everton on Sunday looking to avoid a repeat of last season's loss at Goodison Park. And, having seen his team narrowly fail to claim a place in the Champions League last season, Tottenham manager Villas-Boas knows his team cannot afford to throw points away again this time around. "We've spoken about (last year's) result as the deciding factor for us not making it into the Champions League because everything changed quite dramatically," Villas-Boas said. "It serves us as a lesson to be kept aware of and it's not something we want to see again." Villas-Boas' side will have to keep Romelu Lukaku quiet if they are to come away with something from Goodison Park this time around. Lukaku has scored five goals in seven games since joining on loan from Chelsea, where he used to work under Villas-Boas. The pair enjoyed a rocky relationship as the Belgian was angered at being left on the sidelines during Villas-Boas' shortlived reign during the 2011-12 season. Villas-Boas insists there is no longer any animosity and is impressed with how his old player has progressed. "The player did extremely well last season at West Brom and has continued to do well for Everton," Villas-Boas added. "The potential is there. We all recognise he can become an influential striker in the future. "Chelsea's standards are very, very high so the jump will be very difficult for him. "But he has shown he can cope with the Premier League and it's another step up for him at Everton." Despite warning his side to remain in the hunt, Villas-Boas claims the table has yet to take shape. "From eighth to first place it is very, very tight and we will see teams going up and down," added Villas-Boas. "It has broken a little from seventh place up to first now. But Manchester United have played all of the most difficult fixtures and can look at the calendar with a little more positivity than others." Meanwhile, Everton midfielder Leon Osman admits Tottenham deserve credit for the way they have performed without Gareth Bale following his departure to Real Madrid just before the transfer deadline. Spurs made a string of signings to replace the Wales forward and Osman has been impressed with how quickly the club have moved on after selling their star player. "To lose your talisman and the man who's been regarded as the one to stop for the last few seasons and to still be winning games the way they are definitely deserves credit," Osman said. "They've spread their goals and assists out throughout their team and that's all credit to the manager and their squad. "They've strengthened in a few areas and they look like a very good team." Everton were pipped to a Europa League place by Tottenham last season and Osman believes if they can finish above Spurs in this campaign they will bring continental football back to Goodison Park. "I think if you do finish above them this year, you'll certainly qualify for Europe," Osman added. "They'll be pushing for a minimum of the top four, so if you finish above Tottenham you'll have had quite a good season." Everton manager Roberto Martinez is set to be without striker Arouna Kone as he nurses a knee injury, while centre-back Antolin Alcaraz (hamstring) is still on the sidelines.

ASUU strike: Hope beams as Jonathan, union meets Monday in final peace effort Nigerian students in public universities may resume lectures in a matter of days, as the four months old strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) may end soon. This indication came to light yesterday as information from the presidency says President Goodluck Jonathan will on Monday meet with the leadership of ASUU at the Aso Rock Villa. The meeting is the outcome of the resolutions reached last week at the meeting between Vice President, Namadi Sambo, the Supervising Minister of Education, Nyesom Wike and ASUU. The two were said to have briefed the president on their several discussions with the Union, that now requires his involvement since talks are now in the most crucial stage. ASUU had also requested that Jonathan should personally endorse agreements reached at the last Tuesday’s meeting, with an assurance to fulfil the part of the federal government. Already, the presidency is considering a back-up plan, should the Union fail to call off the action. The Federal Government may forcibly open the universities, using the instrumentality of the governing councils and school managements. Most governing councils of the universities have started meeting to work out modalities for the compulsory re-opening, after last Monday’s meeting between Wike and the Vice Chancellors.

Eriksson reveals arguments with Sir Alex Ferguson. Sven-Goran Eriksson: Argued with Sir Alex Ferguson over Wayne Rooney. Sven-Goran Eriksson has lifted the lid on his World Cup row with Sir Alex Ferguson after missing out on the chance to take over as Manchester United's manager. Eriksson confirms in his new autobiography he was approached to take over from Ferguson as far back as 2002, four years before a bitter row ensued over Wayne Rooney's inclusion in England's World Cup squad. Rooney was eventually passed fit for the tournament after recovering from a broken metatarsal, but he failed to score a goal and was sent off for stamping on Ricardo Carvalho in the quarter-final clash with Portugal which England lost on penalties. Eriksson wrote: "Leif (Sward, England doctor) and I met Ferguson and United's doctor at the United training ground. 'He cannot play in the World Cup', Ferguson said flatly. The doctor brought out some X-rays that he said showed Rooney's broken bone would not heal in time. "When the doctor finished, Leif looked him in the eye. 'Why do you sit here and lie to me?' Leif asked. "He was one of Europe's foremost specialists on this kind of injury. I just wish I could have filmed Ferguson's face when Leif explained that Wayne's break would heal in time for the World Cup. "When Leif had finished, I turned to Ferguson. 'Sorry, Alex,' I said. 'I will pick Rooney'." Ferguson, who eventually retired at the end of the 2012-13 season, previously announced his intention to stand down in 2002, only 12 months after Eriksson took over the England job. "I knew it would be tricky. I had a contract with England until the 2006 World Cup and I would be severely criticised if I broke that contract," Eriksson wrote. "But this was an opportunity to manage Manchester United, probably the biggest club in the world. A contract was signed - I was United's new manager. "I would be able to stay with England through the World Cup. My appointment would not be made official until after the tournament. "A couple of weeks passed and Pini (Zahavi, Eriksson's agent) called again. He wanted another meeting. When I got there, I knew something was wrong. (Peter) Kenyon explained Ferguson had changed his mind. "He did not want to leave the club after all but had agreed to stay in the job for another three years."

Yaya Toure Scores Stunning Free-Kick for Manchester City vs. Norwich City. Manchester City were already romping to victory against Norwich whenYaya Toure produced this stunning strike. Toure has shown himself to be quite the free-kick expert of late.

Hat-trick hero: Lewandowski stars for Dortmund against sorry Stuttgart in 6-1 win. Robert Lewandowski scored a hat trick and added an assist to fire Borussia Dortmund to a 6-1 rout of Stuttgart on Friday, lifting Juergen Klopp'sside provisionally top of the Bundesliga. Dortmund started strongly only to go behind in the 13th minute when Karim Haggui scored with a header from the visitors' only corner. But Sokratis equalized six minutes later in similar fashion, three minutes before Marco Reus made it 2-1 with a fine solo effort. Reus had just squandered a golden opportunity created by Henrikh Mkhitaryan, but the German international more than made up for the rare mistake when he shrugged off two defenders, eluded two more and fired inside the far corner. Lewandowski decided the game with two goals in as many minutes. First Reus set him up with a back-heel in the 54th and then Mkhitaryan sent him though to score again. 'He wants to score goals, regardless when, regardless where,' said Juergen Klopp, who renewed his contract as Dortmund coach to 2018 on Wednesday. Lewandowski claimed his ninth of the season on a rebound in the 72nd, when Sven Ulreich's save from Jakub Blaszczykowski came back off the crossbar, and the Poland striker set up Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to wrap up the scoring in the 81st. 'I feel very well at the moment,' Lewandowski said. Dortmund moved two points clear of Bayern Munich, who visit Hoffenheim on Saturday. 'It was a really great evening. It couldn't have gone better,' said Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller after his 300th Bundesliga game. The visitors could have had a penalty before the break, when Timo Werner went down under pressure from Kevin Grosskreutz, but referee Florian Meyer seemed to change his mind after appearing to award the spot-kick. It was Thomas Schneider's first defeat in eight games as Stuttgart coach.

Moyes: My deadly United duo of Van Persie and Rooney are BETTER than Liverpool's SAS... and they'll be the best in the world. David Moyes believes his Manchester United striker duo of Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie are the best in the country and will eventually match any pair in world football. Some have suggested Liverpool’s Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge are the most potent front two in England after their performance in the 4-1 win over West Brom last weekend. But Moyes still feels Rooney and Van Persie have the edge and will continue to improve. ‘Wayne and Robin, on their day, will be a match for any players in the world, never mind just in this country,’ he said. ‘So when those two are firing, they are the best. ‘They’re incredibly talented, both natural goalscorers and both can play in several positions.’ United travel to Fulham looking to build on wins over Norwich in the Capital One Cup and Stoke and Sunderland in the Premier League. Moyes will be without midfielder Michael Carrick, who has an achilles problem, but hopes Van Persie will be fit, despite problems with toes and groin, and that last weekend’s late comeback at home to Stoke will be a sign his side are regaining their mental toughness. ‘I do see signs that the players are beginning to find a little bit of form,’ said Moyes. ‘I’ve seen it even in the game last week. It was proof that it’s there, that they have got that capability and we might have to do it a few more times before the end of the season. ‘We’re not at the level of consistency we’d like to be at but we’re striving to find that and there are maybe signs that it’s coming back. ‘We’ve played well in a couple of games but had to chase things for different reasons.’ Moyes revealed yesterday that he has no plans to change the captaincy at United, despite skipper Nemanja Vidic missing games through injury. But asked if Rooney could one day be United captain, the manager said: ‘I think Wayne has always had an ability to be a captain. He’s got a love of football, which is the biggest thing.’

Nigerian Varsities To Open Next Week, With Or Without ASUU? The latest news coming your way on ASUU strike is that the FG is set to open Nigerian Universities with or without ASUU, according to ScanNews Nigeria. President Goodluck Jonathan will on Monday, November 4, meet with the leadership of ASUU at the Presidential Villa. An official of the Vice President’s office who pleaded anonymity told Scan News that all hands are now on deck to ensure that the Universities resume next week. The President will at next Monday’s meeting present to the ASUU leadership the administration’s last concession for them to call off the prolonged strike. A source at the Presidential Villa noted that if ASUU fails to call off, the Federal Government will then resort to plan B, which will be to compulsorily open the Universities, using the instrumentality of the governing councils and the school managements. Already, most of the governing councils of the Universities have started meeting to work out modalities for the compulsory re-opening of the Universities should ASUU fail to honour the personal request of President Jonathan. It was gathered that security report available to the Presidency may have necessitated this line of action to salvage the Universities system from the direction it is facing at present

Keep your word and give me my chance - Manchester City's Costel Pantilimon IF Costel Pantilimon fails to receive the nod from Manuel Pellegrini this weekend it could be the final straw for him at Manchester City.

Joe Hart to be dropped in favour of Costel Pantilimon for Norwich match. City boss Manuel Pelligrini has told Hart his run of 123 consecutive Premier League appearances for the club has come to an end after the latest in a series of blunders gifted Chelsea a win last Sunday. Costel Pantilimon will make his first League appearance for City against Norwich at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow after strengthening his claims to stay in the side by keeping a cleansheet in the Capital One Cup win at Newcastle in midweek. Pellegrini has agonised all week over a decision but has taken Hart out of the firing line to work on his game. Earlier in the day Pellegrini had refused to make public his decision. You must ask Joe. I can’t answer for him how disappointed [he was]. Manuel Pellegrini In his pre-match press conference he said: "Tomorrow you will know. It is a decision I have to take every week with the 22 players." When asked how Hart responded to being left out in midweek he added: "You must ask Joe. I can’t answer for him how disappointed [he was]. All of you and the players and me saw what happened but he is a football player and every week he is in the same pressure." And in response to Brad Friedel's remarks that Hart's confidence could be affected if his 123 unbroken League appearance record ended, Pellegrini said: "I am very careful with all the players, not only Joe." Vincent Kompany is still not fit after a thigh injury while Javi Garcia and Stevan Jovetic are also injured. City have won all four of their Premier League home games so far but Pellegrini insists they cannot afford complacency against the struggling Canaries. "Norwich is a difficult team. They lost the last two games but I saw both games against Arsenal, until minute 83-84, it was a very close match, and against Chelsea, they lost the match in the last five minutes. If we think that playing at home we will win easy, it is a great mistake. The team will be very conscious about that. Tomorrow we must do a very good game."

Gunman opens fire in Los Angeles airport killing one person and causing multiple injuries. A GUNMAN opened fire in Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) killing one person and injuring multiple people today. Terminal Three of LAX was evacuated around 9.20am local time and officials said a US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was killed by the suspect. The suspect used a high-powered rifle in the attack and was engaged in gunfire by Los Angeles Airport Police before he was taken into custody. Aerial footage of the airport showed emergency services vehichles and police cars surround a terminal soon after the incident started. Los Angeles Airport Police chief Patrick Gannon said: "A large amount of chaos took place. We believe at this point there was a lone shooter and he was the only person armed in this incident." Airport spokeswoman Katherine Alvarado said: "The general public is being held back at law enforcement bock. Other than arriving flights, flight operations have been temporary held." Television images showed two people being taken away in wheelchairs by firefighters in the aftermath of the shooting. A law enforcement source told CBSLA.com that the suspect entered Terminal Three of LAX wearing a military style uniform before opening fire. The source claims that the gunman was targetting staff of the airport and that the attack took place after the airport security checks. Witness Brian Keech said he heard "about a dozen gunshots" from inside the security gate at Terminal 3. While passenger Robert Perez said security agents had come through the terminal shouting a man had a gun. He said: "I heard popping and everybody dropped to the ground." Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) confirmed on Twitterthat they are currently assisting law enforcement officers after an incident at LAX. Aerial footage taken from helicopters in the area showed passengers fleeing the area while police surrounded the terminal. A live stream of the scenes outside the airport also showed emergency responders setting up what appeared to be a triage area outside an airport terminal. LAX said on their Twitter profile that 'ground stop' is in effect, meaning there are no planes allowed in or out of the airport. President Barack Obama has been briefed on the incident and White House officials are in touch with law enforcement officials on the ground.

Juventus to offer Paul Pogba pay rise to keep Arsenal and Chelsea at bay. JUVENTUS intend to offer Paul Pogba a bumper pay rise to ward off potential suitors. Arsenal and Chelsea have both been in the frame for the 20-year-old's signature. Express Sportlearned recently that both clubs would have to pay around £40 million to prise him from the Bianconeri. But Juventus sporting director Giuseppe Marotta claims the club are in talks to negotiate a rise in his pay packet. Juventus sporting director Giuseppe Marotta "Pogba is happy at Juventus and he has no intention of leaving," Marotta toldSky Sport Italia. "We will meet with the Frenchman's agents soon to extend our agreement and, at the same time, we will give him a pay-rise for his development." Pogba's current deal expires in 2016.

Arsenal and Liverpool stars among the Premier League Player of the Month candidates. Another month goes by in the Premier League and it looks like being a very open season, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur all making early claims. Here are the 10 candidates from fanatix for Player of the Month. Luis Suarez The forward is back and is once again on the score-sheet for Liverpool with four goals in October, including a hat-trick against West Bromwich Albion last weekend. Daniel Sturridge What a consistent season it has been for the England international and the 24-year-old has netted in each of the Reds’ three matches this month.

Alonso eyes Real talks. Chelsea target Xabi Alonso admits he is ready to sit down with Real Madrid and discuss an extension to his current deal. The 31-year-old is out of contract next summer, and his former boss at Madrid Jose Mourinho is keen on being reunited with him at Stamford Bridge, according to reports. Alonso, who joined the club in 2009, returned to the Madrid first-team after a five-month absence in the 7-3 win over Sevilla, and he is hoping he can prove his fitness as he looks for a new deal. "Now is the moment to begin to talk to the club about my future," the Spaniard told Canal Plus. "While I was not fit I did not feel up to talking. I have good communication with the club."

Monaco eye Walcott. Arsenal face a battle to keep hold of Theo Walcott as reports claim Monaco are lining up a January bid. The 24-year-old has been on the sidelines since September with an abdominal injury but that has not put off big-spending Monaco, who are ready to launch a move. Monaco went on a huge spending spree in the summer and it looks as though they are planning another one when window re-opens in January with Walcott said to be a £34million target. Arsenal are likely to knock back all offers though as Arsene Wenger wants to strengthen his squad not weaken it as they push for the Premier League title.

PSG target massive Mata bid. Paris Saint-Germain are ready to fork out 41million euros to secure the services of Juan Mata from Chelsea in January, reports claim. Mata has struggled for regular action at Stamford Bridge this term under boss Jose Mourinho, despite being one of the Blues' star performers last season. The winger started against Arsenal and grabbed a goal in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday and said after that he is happy at the club and willing to fight for his place. However it is also claimed he will consider a January move if he cannot break into the starting side in the Premier League in order to ensure he is included in the Spain squad for the World Cup next summer. Chelsea are willing to listen to offers for the 25-year-old but will not consider bids from any Premier League rivals, including Arsenal and Tottenham, which would leave PSG as the leading contenders to complete a deal in the New Year. A 41million euro bid has been suggested as PSG seek to strengthen their attacking options when the transfer window reopens.

Giroud feeling good. Olivier Giroud says his improved form for Arsenal this season is down to confidence and the belief he has in his own ability. Giroud had a tough opening campaign for the Gunners and was written off as a poor signing in some quarters, but he has come back for the new season looking like a different player. The 27-year-old has already fired home eight goals this season as the Gunners have marched to the top of the Premier League and admits that his confidence is back. "I think technically I had it before, maybe I progressed because we have worked on it a lot in training," Giroud revealed. "It is also [down to] confidence. I did well from the start of the season, I had good preparation with the team - instead of last season when I wasn't here from the beginning - and I scored early in the pre-season games. "I feel really confident, the boss made me feel good and that is why I feel good and try to improve every day. It is all about confidence I think."

Wilshere, Sturridge, Januzaj, Morrison, Kasami... and that's just for starters! Has October just produced the greatest Goals of the Month competition ever? No-one can complain about the volume of goals in the Barclays Premier League over the past month, or the quality. Standards have been high, as well as numbers, and deciding on the pick of a highly-impressive bunch is no easy task. Here, Sportsmail takes a look at the leading contenders. Jack Wilshere (Arsenal v Norwich, October 19) 'Simplicity itself' screamed the TV commentator as England midfielder Wilshere rounded off the slickest of passing moves with an assured finish. I'd have thought intricacy itself might have been more appropriate for a blinding succession of one-touch flicks and passes that would have unlocked the tightest of defences. Pajtim Kasami (Fulham v Crystal Palace, October 21) Comparisons to some of the volleys Marco van Basten used to execute in his prime are not misplaced. Kasami was already running away from goal when he dashed to meet a long through ball from Sascha Riether, and his instant chest control seemed to take him even further away. It hardly mattered, as the dropping ball was lashed across a diving Julian Speroni into the far top corner. Steve Sidwell (Fulham v Crystal Palace, October 21) It's little wonder Palace boss Ian Holloway decided enough was enough after this game, given the way Kasami's wonder strike was followed by another goal out of the top drawer before half-time. Bryan Ruiz's free-kick hit the wall and reared yards into the air. As it fell, Sidwell despatched a first-time volley into the same top corner as his team-mate had done. Luis Suarez (Liverpool v West Brom, October 26) There is nothing to strike dread into a defender more than the sight of Suarez picking up possession 40 yards out and making for goal. Here, he surged past one defender and then nutmegged Jonas Olsson before rifling a low shot into the bottom corner. Goal of the month contenders are often one-offs, but Suarez does this all the time. Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool v West Brom, October 26) Brendan Rodgers has made few more inspired signings than Sturridge, as demonstrated by this brilliant piece of improvisation. He seemed to be drifting away to the left of goal, and there appeared to be little on, when, without even looking up, he floated a chip towards the far corner. Boaz Myhill scarcely seemed to be off his line but was powerless to prevent the deftest of chips from nestling in the corner of the net. Ravel Morrison (West Ham v Tottenham, October 6) A run that started well inside his own half finished with a goal delirious West Ham fans were talking about long into the night. The former Manchester United forward hardly even seemed to be sprinting, as he strode past Jan Vertonghen and skipped past Michael Dawson before dinking a shot over advancing keeper Hugo Lloris. It was the sort of individual brilliance that comes so easily to him, when his mind is on the job. Fabio Borini (Sunderland v Newcastle, October 22) Sunderland were pressing for a winner six minutes from time, and someone needed to take responsibility, with the ball bobbling round the edge of the Newcastle area. Step forward on-loan Liverpool forward Borini, who had only been on as substitute a few minutes but took on the mantle of matchwinner without a moment's hesitation, as he seized possession 25 yards out and hammered an unstoppable shot into the top right corner. Yohan Cabaye (Newcastle v Liverpool, October 19) Cries of 'shoooot' ring round St James' Park now whenever Cabaye has the ball at his feet anywhere in opposition territory, and with good reason. Picking it upon the halfway line against Liverpool, he advanced a few paces before unleashing a fierce right-foot shot from fully 30 yards that bounced in front of Simon Mignolet's despairing dive and into the net for a spectacular goal. Sergio Aguero (Manchester City v West Ham, October 19) Aguero has scored his share of brilliant individual goals and just as many impressive team efforts, and this fell into the latter category. West Ham were torn apart by a passing move that ended with Alvaro Negredo allowing a Fernandinho ball to run through for Aguero to slot clinically past Jussi Jaaskelainen. Adnan Januzaj (Manchester United v Sunderland, October 5) The teenage winger had just hauled his side level with an assured side-foot finish when he put them in front with a volley that had those who saw it in raptures. A Nani cross from the right skimmed off a defender's head and looped beyond the far post, from where Januzaj met it with a first-time left foot volley that fairly flew into the bottom corner. Exceptional skill, brilliantly executed.

Monaco consider £34million January swoop for Arsenal ace Walcott. French giants Monaco are considering a €40million (£34m) January swoop for Arsenal winger Theo Walcott. The England international has been sidelined with an abdominal strain and has not played since the Gunners’ 2-1 victory over Marseille in September. But manager Arsene Wenger is unlikely to let the 24-year-old leave the club while Walcott is believed to be happy to stay at Arsenal. Monaco, whose summer signings included Falcao and Joao Moutinho, lie second in Ligue 1, tied with Paris Saint-Germain

Wenger's ninth chance to finally beat Mourinho goes begging, how have other managers fared against the Chelsea boss? Never mind Arsene – perhaps it will be tenth time lucky when Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea visit the Emirates Stadium on December 23. Arsenal’s 2-0 Capital One Cup defeat by Chelsea on Tuesday night was the ninth time Wenger has pitted his wits against Mourinho and failed to come out on top. His record against the Portuguese remains dismal: five losses and four draws. When it comes to Mourinho, Wenger very much remains the ‘voyeur’, the man looking on at his rival’s success. MOURINHO v WENGER Dec 12 2004 Arsenal 2 Chelsea 2 Premier League Apr 20 2005 Chelsea 0 Arsenal 0 Premier League Aug 7 2005 Chelsea 2 Arsenal 1 Community Shield Aug 21 2005 Chelsea 1 Arsenal 0 Premier League Dec 18 2005 Arsenal 0 Chelsea 2 Premier League Dec 12 2006 Chelsea 1 Arsenal 1 Premier League Feb 25 2007 Chelsea 2 Arsenal 1 League Cup Final May 6 2007 Arsenal 1 Chelsea 1 Premier League Oct 29 2013 Arsenal 0 Chelsea 2 League Cup A League Cup match for which Arsenal made eight changes and Chelsea 10 said little about either side’s chances of winning the Premier League, other than perhaps Arsenal’s relative lack of strength in depth. But it did, however, reinforce one manager’s dominance over the other. It is nine meetings now, and Wenger has yet to sip that post-match glass of red wine and savour victory over Mourinho. Their relationship may have thawed from the ice-cold tension of 2005, when Wenger came close to starting legal action against Mourinho after the Chelsea boss labelled him a ‘voyeur’ with a ‘big telescope’, but their head-to-head record still makes unhappy viewing for the Frenchman. That, both psychologically and in the way both men set up their teams, could be crucial in a season in which the two London clubs currently occupy first and second place in the Premier League. This is a managerial rivalry that once got very personal, but Wenger’s record against Mourinho looks substantially better when compared with other current Premier League managers. No current top flight boss who has come up against Mourinho-managed sides more than twice has a head-to-head record in his favour. The Chelsea manager comes out on top against them all. Everton boss Roberto Martinez is the only manager to have played Mourinho's men and come out on top - thanks to his side's 1-0 win over Chelsea in August. Manchester United boss David Moyes has also never beaten Mourinho in nine attempts, suffering five defeats along the way, although his Manchester City counterpart, Manuel Pelligrini, has a slightly better record, winning two and drawing one of his eight matches against Mourinho. Still not favourable enough to warrant a post-match handshake, mind you, as we saw at Stamford Bridge last Sunday after City’s 2-1 Premier League loss. Fulham manager Martin Jol has been on the losing side eight times out of 10, while Newcastle United’s Alan Pardew and Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino have each lost all four of their matches against sides managed by Mourinho. When those sides happened to be Real Madrid and Chelsea, of course, this is perhaps no great shame. Yet you have to look outside the Premier League, or into the realms of retirement and book publicity, to find managers who have fared better against ‘The Special One’.

Have my shirt, Jose: The touching moment former Real Madrid men Ozil and Mourinho embrace after Chelsea's win at Arsenal. If beating Arsenal in their own backyard wasn't enough for Jose Mourinho, the Chelsea manager then capped a memorable night by walking off the Emirates turf with Mesut Ozil's shirt. Mourinho continued his impressive run against Arsene Wenger - which now sees him unbeaten in nine games against the Frenchman - after Chelsea swaggered to a 2-0 victory over the Gunners in the fourth round of the Capital One Cup. Ozil, who signed for Arsenal in a £42.5million deal during the closing hours of the transfer window and came on as a second-half substitute in his side's defeat, played under Mourinho at Real Madrid. Ozil revealed that Mourinho sent him a 'Welcome to London' message when he completed his move from Madrid to Arsenal in September. And it appears the Germany midfielder still shares a special bond with the self-proclaimed Special One after handing the Portuguese his strip following the final whistle. Ozil replaced Ryo Miyaichi after an hour at the Emirates but had little effect on the League Cup clash as Chelsea cruised to victory. THERE WAS A TIME WHEN MOURINHO GOT A BIT SHIRTY WITH OZIL... It hasn't always been hugs and shirt swaps between Mesut Ozil and Jose Mourinho as their relationship at Real Madrid became increasingly fractious last season. In a game against Deportivo, Ozil was taken off at half-time and his Real team-mates were not happy. Club captain and Spain standard-bearer Sergio Ramos even risked Mourinho’s wrath to stand up for his colleague, putting Ozil's No 10 shirt on under his own for the second half. Unfairly targeted: Ozil was taken off at half-time in this game against Deportivo La Coruna He felt Ozil was being unfairly targeted by Mourinho and if he scored was ready to rip off his shirt to dedicate the goal to his friend. When asked why he dropped Ozil, Mourinho said ‘Less playing time or less quality playing time? Because, the better the quality, the more playing time.’

Have my shirt, Jose: The touching moment former Real Madrid men Ozil and Mourinho embrace after Chelsea's win at Arsenal. If beating Arsenal in their own backyard wasn't enough for Jose Mourinho, the Chelsea manager then capped a memorable night by walking off the Emirates turf with Mesut Ozil's shirt. Mourinho continued his impressive run against Arsene Wenger - which now sees him unbeaten in nine games against the Frenchman - after Chelsea swaggered to a 2-0 victory over the Gunners in the fourth round of the Capital One Cup. Ozil, who signed for Arsenal in a £42.5million deal during the closing hours of the transfer window and came on as a second-half substitute in his side's defeat, played under Mourinho at Real Madrid. Ozil revealed that Mourinho sent him a 'Welcome to London' message when he completed his move from Madrid to Arsenal in September. And it appears the Germany midfielder still shares a special bond with the self-proclaimed Special One after handing the Portuguese his strip following the final whistle. Ozil replaced Ryo Miyaichi after an hour at the Emirates but had little effect on the League Cup clash as Chelsea cruised to victory. THERE WAS A TIME WHEN MOURINHO GOT A BIT SHIRTY WITH OZIL... It hasn't always been hugs and shirt swaps between Mesut Ozil and Jose Mourinho as their relationship at Real Madrid became increasingly fractious last season. In a game against Deportivo, Ozil was taken off at half-time and his Real team-mates were not happy. Club captain and Spain standard-bearer Sergio Ramos even risked Mourinho’s wrath to stand up for his colleague, putting Ozil's No 10 shirt on under his own for the second half. Unfairly targeted: Ozil was taken off at half-time in this game against Deportivo La Coruna He felt Ozil was being unfairly targeted by Mourinho and if he scored was ready to rip off his shirt to dedicate the goal to his friend. When asked why he dropped Ozil, Mourinho said ‘Less playing time or less quality playing time? Because, the better the quality, the more playing time.’

Chelsea finally sign Traore on four-and-a-half year deal after wonderkid is granted a work permit. Chelsea have finally signed 18-year-old wonderkid Bertrand Traore. The Europa League holders had been waiting for the exciting Burkina Faso attacking midfielder to be granted a work permit and faced a nervous wait as several other sides became interested in Traore after he impressed during Chelsea's pre-season tour of Asia. But Traore has decided to remain at Stamford Bridge, signing a four-and-a-half year deal. BERTRAND TRAORE FACTFILE Birthplace:Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso Age:18 Position:Attacking midfield Chelsea apps (goals):0 (0) - 3 (2) during pre-season tour of the Far East International caps (goals):10 (1) Traore joined Chelsea from Association Jeunes Espoirs De Bobo-Dioulasso in 2011, making his international debut in September 2011 and has since picked up 10 caps for Bukina Faso. He is expected to play a part in November's World Cup qualification play-off second leg against Algeria - he came on as a sub during the 3-2 first-left win. During the pre-season tour to the Far East, Traore impressed, playing a part in all three games as well as scoring twice against the Malaysia XI and Indonesia XI. Following his goal in Indonesia during the summer defender Gary Cahill was full of praise for Traore, saying: 'He's a young lad, but I'm sure he's got a bright future at Chelsea.

Willian becomes the fourth Chelsea player in the Brazil squad after call up from Luiz Felipe Scolari. Chelsea midfielder Willian has been included in the Brazil squad for the upcoming friendlies with Chile and Honduras. Willian, who was signed from Shaktar Donetsk for £32million, has found himself in and out of the Chelsea starting line up as Jose Mourinho continues to rotate. The 25-year-old has two caps for Brazil, both won in 2011. Willian joins three other Chelsea players - David Luiz, Oscar and Ramires - in the Selecao. BRAZIL SQUAD Chelsea players in bold Julio Cesar, Victor;DAVID LUIZ, Dante, Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, Daniel Alves, Maicon, Marcelo, Maxwell; Lucas, Hernanes, Luiz Gustavo, Paulinho, RAMIREZ, OSCAR, Bernard, WILLIAN, Jo, Robinho, Hulk, Neymar. Luiz Felipe Scolari added some other faces that haven't been seen in yellow in the last couple of years. AC Milan forward Robinho is back after his own two-year exile, but Manchester United defender Rafael misses out with former Manchester City full back Maicon preferred. Other surprises see £45m Paris Saint-Germain star Lucas Mouroa left out of the squad - he has often found himself on the PSG bench with Edinson Cavani, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Ezequiel Lavezzi in fine form for the Ligue 1 leaders. Willian has made seven appearances for Chelsea this season, three as a substitute, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

Robin van Persie becomes latest Manchester United star to leave mark on Channel 4 programme Countdown. Here's a conundrum for you. What's Manchester United striker Robin van Persie doing on cult television show Countdown? Following on from Ryan Giggs' appearance on the Channel 4 programme earlier this year, Van Persie became the latest Old Trafford star to leave his mark on the popular afternoon show. Viewers were left perplexed and bemused in equal measure when the nine-letter conundrum 'vanpersio' appeared on their screens during Wednesday's programme. And so were the two contestants, who both failed to solve the puzzler during the 30-second time limit. For those of you equally challenged,Sportsmailcan reveal the answer: pervasion. The Oxford Dictionary tells us it means 'the process of permeating or infusing something with a substance'. It's unclear whether Riley, a lifelong Man United supporter, had a hand in the conundrum. The 27-year-old, currently showing off her best moves on BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing, was surprised earlier this year when Giggs presented her with a United shirt to mark her 1,000th appearance on the show. 'I had no inkling that I had just filmed my 1,000th episode when (presenter) Nick (Hewer) announced it on the show, and I was touched that the Countdown team had surprised me with the news,' Riley said. 'As Nick continued, I thought they might have got me a bunch of flowers. But I nearly fell through the floor when Ryan Giggs suddenly appeared with some. 'As a lifelong red, I’ve watched Giggsy rack up 1,000-plus appearances since I was five, so there couldn’t have been a more special way to celebrate mine.'

Managers admit Toure dismay. Premier League managers have reacted with disappointment to the punishment handed to CSKA Moscow over racist chanting directed at Manchester City's Yaya Toure. The Russian club was charged after Toure complained he had been the target of monkey chants during City's 2-1 win on 23 October. CSKA denied the claim but UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings and subsequently ordered their next Champions League home game to be played in a partially-closed stadium. One end of the Khimki Arena will now be shut when Bayern Munich visit on 27 November but Premier League bosses believe such sanctions are not sufficiently severe. "Not enough, it's just not enough," West Ham manager Sam Allardyce said when asked for his reaction to the punishment. There have been more disturbing scenes on the terraces in Russia following the racist abuse aimed at Yaya Toure recently. Newcastle boss Alan Pardew said: "I think UEFA and FIFA need to have a policy that is strong, very strong. I think it's becoming an issue in stadiums in certain parts of Europe that needs to be addressed and the only way to address it is with incisive action. "We've done that in this country and we've done pretty well at it. Hopefully they can put something in place that eradicates that because it's the last thing anyone wants to see in modern society." Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers and Norwich manager Chris Hughton - himself the subject of alleged racist abuse on social networking sites - said the speed at which UEFA had acted was to be commended. "What they have done is acted very quickly," Hughton said. "Clubs are now aware of what can happen and I'm quite sure that if it does continue to happen, the sanctions will get stronger." Rodgers said: "I think it's a start. The more awareness of these types of issues - he was brave, Yaya, to come out and do what he did - is another step towards eradicating it." The governing body announced in May that racist incidents involving spectators would be applied for the first offence, with a second incurring a full stadium closure and a fine of 50,000 euros (£43,000).

£30m Lamela insists he will come good for Spurs. Erik Lamela insists he will justify his £30million price tag once he has adjusted to life in the Barclays Premier League. Lamela was expected to be the man to fill the void left by Gareth Bale when he moved from Roma in a club-record deal this summer, but he has failed to impress so far. The excellent form of Andros Townsend has meant Lamela has played a peripheral role for the north London club so far, starting just five games - all of which have come in the cup competitions.

Gunners to return for Ba in January. Arsenal will make a renewed bid forChelsea striker Demba Ba during the January transfer window. The Gunners saw a deadline day loan bid for the star rejected by the Blues- who failed to land top forward target Wayne Rooney from Manchester United in the summer. Yet manager Arsene Wenger is aware he needs to bolster his forward line when the transfer window re-opens, with Olivier Giroud the only proven frontman at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners boss was hopeful Nicklas Bendtner would be able to step up, but the Dane's insipid performance against the Blues in the League Cup strengthened Wenger’s resolve to land a forward in the winter. Ba fits the bill as Chelsea would likely allow the 28-year-old to leave on a short-term deal, though Wenger would have to pay a loan fee- something he refused to do in the summer. The Frenchman still has a large portion of his reported70 million summer war chest available, however, and could even table a straight cash bid if his hand is forced, with Roma, Valencia and Galatasaray also interested in Ba. If the Senegalese hitman does leave Stamford Bridge, boss Jose Mourinho will re-double his efforts to land Gala forward Burak Yilmaz, who would cost around20m.

Benitez wants Leiva reunion. Napoli manager Rafael Benitez is reportedly targeting a reunion withLiverpoolmidfielder Lucas Leiva. The Spanish coach brought Leiva to the Premier League in 2007 when he spent5 million to sign him from Brazilian outfit Gremio. After a testing start on Merseyside due to lack of form and injuries but the Brazil international has gone on to become one of the key members of the Liverpool squad. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has told Benitez he is happy to sanction moves for new players when the transfer market re-opens in January and the Spaniard is keen to team up again with Leiva, according toCalciomercato.com. Benitez has also been linked with former Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano, who now plies his trade for Barcelona, as well as Lyon’s Maxime Gonalons. The 53-year-old replaced Walter Mazzarri as Napoli manager in May after winning the Europa League trophy during his interim spell as Chelsea boss last season.

Will Hernandez be the next Galactic? Strikers Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney may be the main goal threats at Manchester United but it may be Javier Hernandez who becomes the latest Galactico at Real Madrid- unless that spot is filled by Liverpool’s Luis Suarez. If United manager David Moyes does not give Javier Hernandez more game time then the bulging pockets of Real Madrid may just switch their attention back to the‘Little Pea’ from their less than private pursuit of Suarez. The Uruguayan, during his times of duress due to the Evra incident and the biting comments he made in the wake of his spat with Ivanovic, made no secret of the fact he was fed up with playing in England. That immediately alerted Real but Liverpool dug their heels in and hung on to their talismanic striker - for now. As for Hernandez, he openly stated his dissatisfaction about getting so little game time under Ferguson. Then the Mexican was being touted as a makeweight in attempting to lure Cristiano Ronaldo back to Old Trafford but the Portuguese has since intimated he wants to remain at the Bernabeu for the rest of his career. He went back to banging in goals at a rate of one a game while Hernandez went back to substitute appearances and League Cup outings. Chicharito’s situation has not improved under Moyes. He came in against Stoke City and Norwich City and immediately did what he does better than anyone at Old Trafford and better than anyone in the Premier League, apart from Suarez- he scored goals. Despite Madrid’s world record signing of winger Gareth Bale from Tottenham Hotspur, coach Carlo Ancelotti would embrace the predatory skills of a young player, he is only 25, who could become one of the world’s top strikers. He is one of the very few natural goal scorers in world football. The kind that can turn a game when team tactics fail. Imagine him, Ronaldo and Bale in the same attack although Suarez would be equally lethal in such company. Hernandez would be cheaper than Suarez, considerably, and is of better character, although to be fair the Uruguayan seems to be a reformed character since his return from the lengthy post-Ivanovic ban. That has in turn produced a goal-laden tally of six strikes in five appearances so maybe he will see out the remaining three years of his Anfield contract although Liverpool are stalling on contract talks until the summer. Hernandez agreed a new five year deal at United back in 2011 and is contracted to 2016. It would be interesting to ask the Real coach who he would prefer in his side. Based purely on appearance time it would seem that United could do without Hernandez more than Liverpool could do without Suarez. Team sheets will make very interesting reading between now and January, especially for Little Pea. That could define whether he or Suarez becomes the Real deal. As Lloyd Grossman would say,‘it’s over to you David.’

Napoli moved closer to Roma. Napoli moved within two points of Serie A leaders Roma as they won a bad-tempered contest 2-1 away at Fiorentina. Jose Maria Callejon opened the scoring after just 12 minutes, but Serie A top-scorer Giuseppe Rossi levelled things up from the penalty spot just before the half-hour. Dries Mertens scored what proved to be the winner in the 36th minute, but there was late drama as Napoli's Cristian Maggio was dismissed 10 minutes from time and Juan Guillermo Cuadrado ensured both sides finished with 10 men in the dying seconds. Juventus are also two points back after a convincing 4-0 win over Catania. Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo both scored in the first half with Carlos Tevez and Leonardo Bonucci adding to the score after the break. Tiberio Guarente was sent off six minutes from time for Catania, but Juve did not add to their tally. Roma are likely to extend their lead back to five points on Thursday as they defend their 100 per cent record against a Chievo side without a win in five games. Hellas Verona sit eight points back from the leaders following a 2-0 win over Sampdoria. Juan Ignacio Gomez Taleb and Luca Toni struck in the second half to ensure Verona kept pace with Inter Milan, who could only draw with Atalanta on Tuesday night. Kaka was on target for Inter's city rivals AC as they drew 1-1 with Lazio. The Brazilian opened the scoring nine minutes into the second half, but Michael Ciani ensured a point for the capital side in the 72nd minute. Alessio Cerci's late equaliser snatched a point for Torino and denied Livorno a remarkable come-from-behind win. Goals from Ciro Immobile and Kamil Glik had the visitors 2-0 up within eight minutes, but Sergio Paulinho, Leandro Greco and Ramos Emerson had Livorno ahead before Cerci's 87th-minute strike made it 3-3. Luis Muriel's goal 11 minutes into the second half allowed Udinese to see off Sassoulo 2-1. Antonio Di Natale put Udinese ahead from the penalty spot before Simone Zaza, who was later sent off, equalised for Sassuolo. Bologna cruised to a 3-0 win over 10-man Cagliari. Gyorgy Garics opened the scoring before Nicola Murru was sent off and Panagiotis Kone and Michele Pazienza soon rounded off the win. In the evening's other game, Alberto Gilardino scored the only goal as Genoa beat Parma 1-0.

Manchester City's Alvaro Negredo breaks Newcastle United's resistance. They were up against it for prolonged periods and needed extra time to complete the job but, eventually, Álvaro Negredo and Edin Dzeko scored the goals which earned a second-string Manchester City side a quarter-final place. As Manuel Pellegrini smiled with evident relief, Alan Pardew looked disconsolate. Not only have Newcastle United failed to beat City in the last 15 attempts, but Pardew's class of 2013 have won only one of their past five games, leaving him on slightly uneasy terrain. "It was a very close match but I'm very pleased," said Pellegrini. "It wasn't easy." His team have not convinced on the road this season and a largely impressive Newcastle began by highlighting City's defensive vulnerabilities. Shola Ameobi headed on for Papiss Cissé to nip between Dedryck Boyata and Joleon Lescott, extend a boot, and shoot narrowly wide. Minutes later another nodded flick-on from Ameobi precipitated a Cissé shot being blocked. Neither strikers started Newcastle's 2-1 defeat at Sunderland last Sunday and, deployed in a 4-4-2 formation, as Pardew rejigged his recently preferred 4-3-3 system, both had points to prove. Cheick Tioté should have simply been relieved not to be in a prison cell after receiving a suspended sentence following his conviction for possession of a forged Belgian driving licence on Monday. Rather generously, Pardew blamed it all on a "cultural misunderstanding" but with the Ivorian looking a midfielder reborn since assuming the captaincy from the injured Fabricio Coloccini, his manager would probably forgive him most things right now. Tioté and the recalled, extremely assured, Vurnon Anita were certainly making Jack Rodwell look a bit stodgy and one-paced in City's central midfield as, gradually, inexorably, Newcastle forced the tempo and gained the upper hand. Costel Pantilimon – keeping goal in place of the dropped Joe Hart – did well to repel Ameobi's volley but Pantilimon was beaten when Cissé's miscued volley flew across the face of goal only to be tapped home by Ameobi at the far post. No matter that this "goal" was disallowed for offside, Pellegrini's defence had, once again, being bisected. "This was a very important game for Costel, he's a very good keeper," said Pellegrini, who declined to offer Hart any reassurance but said he has still to decide whether Pantilimon will keep the place. City were not enjoying the way Pardew's players were pressing them and with James Milner – fortunately for Newcastle's vulnerable Mathieu Debuchy – initially experiencing one of those nights when he is all industry and little imagination or incision, Tim Krul was strangely under-employed. Even so, home fears of coming undone on the break were heightened when Micah Richards slalomed forward, dodging all-comers, before shooting wide. Then Tioté was booked for a typically rash foul from behind on the substitute Negredo, thereby ensuring the Ivorian needed to watch his second-half step. Tioté's latest yellow card also served to heighten Newcastle fears that his team-mates might struggle to maintain the intensity and ferocity of their first-half performance. Yet despite odd flashes of skill from Jesús Navas – whose influence on proceedings was growing – and Richards heading a Milner cross over the bar when he probably should have scored, Pellegrini's players were still not moving the ball forward fast enough to really hurt Newcastle. It was no surprise when the still-struggling Rodwell was replaced by David Silva, although Ameobi's replacement by Yohan Cabaye raised a few eyebrows, many fans feeling Cissé should have been the man withdrawn. Belatedly City roused themselves, with their pressure almost paying off when Tim Krul just managed to stretch out a hand to divert Negredo's shot at the end of a slick exchange between Dzeko and Negredo, who delayed a fraction too long. Early in extra time, a fine pass from Hatem Ben Arfa resulted in Pantilimon having to deal with Cissé although, wastefully, the Senegalese striker shot straight at him. In the 99th minute everything changed. Dzeko's beautifully weighted square pass found Negredo unmarked and, gratefully accepting the invitation, he shot low past Krul. Newcastle fans began heading for the exits when Dzeko doubled City's lead following a clever interchange involving Silva and Milner. The latter's adroit pass enabled Dzeko to round the advancing Krul before rolling the ball into the empty net. "It was disappointing not to score," Pardew said. "We put City in a difficult situation but just couldn't get our noses in front."

Tottenham 2 Hull 2 (aet, 8-7 on pens): Kane saves sorry Spurs after Tigers pay penalty in dramatic shootout. Andre Villas-Boas had called for the atmosphere at White Hart Lane to improve, and his club's supporters responded. What his players' excuse was for large periods, however, is anyone's guess. Tottenham eventually knocked Hull City out of the Capital One Cup by winning 8-7 on penalties after 120 minutes of an absorbing tie at White Hart Lane but, for the second time in three days against Steve Bruce's side, they made incredibly hard work of it. Spurs needed a 107th minute equaliser from 20-year-old substitute Harry Kane, a player who has spent time on loan at Norwich and Leicester in the past 12 months, to take this tie to penalties. But then Tottenham, four-time winners of this competition, made a very basic error.

Tottenham and Arsenal eye up January move for Corinthians striker Pato as Brazilian admits Spurs failed with summer bid. Corinthians striker Alexandre Pato has confirmed Tottenham failed in a bid to sign him in the summer. Tottenham remain keen on Pato ahead of the January window despite the former AC Milan forward's dip in form while Arsenal are also interested. Pato told Sportv: 'Tottenham had called Corinthians to ask for my transfer. I sat at the table with the club and my agent and I decided I wanted to stay.'

Capital One Cup: Pellegrini praises performance of Pantilimon in win. Manuel Pellegrini was full of praise for goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon after he was named man of the match in the 2-0 win over Newcastle at St James' Park. The Romanian was brought in to replace Joe Hart in City's goal and pulled off several fine saves to keep the score at 0-0 into extra time. He could now replace under-fire Hart in City's Premier League game with Norwich on Saturday. Pellegrini was not surprised by his performance. He said: "Pantilimon has always had my trust and that of the team. "He is a good player, that's why he is here. He may not have played too much because Joe Hart plays last year and this year but I trust him to play. "I think for him and the team to keep a clean sheet today was important." Pellegrini insisted, however, that he has yet to determine Hart's fate. Pantilimon was hardly overworked on Wednesday night but did everything that was required of him when called upon. He got down well while partially unsighted to paw a Shola Ameobi effort wide in the first half and then, with the scores still level early in added time, the Romanian came out to meet Papiss Cisse and stood firm to make a strong save. That latter intervention was picked out by home manager Alan Pardew as the key moment of the match, giving City the platform to secure passage to the quarter-finals via goals from Alvaro Negredo and Edin Dzeko. The focus on the under-pressure Hart was inevitable, but Pellegrini did little to fan the flames around England's number one. While he stopped short of guaranteeing a return to the starting XI against Norwich on Saturday, he also declined to anoint Pantilimon as his successor. "He is a very good goalkeeper and he normally plays in the Capital One Cup and the FA Cup," said Pellegrini. "This was a very important match for him. But I will start to think about the game against Norwich on Thursday. Today I was just thinking about winning this match. "I think that we will talk tomorrow (about the team selection). One goalkeeper can play but the other will have our full support. We will think about it." Pressed for further details about Hart's standing, Pellegrini responded curtly: "I have just told you I will think about that tomorrow."

Monaco finally beaten, exit Cup. Reims' midfielder Antoine Devaux (C) celebrates after scoring during the French Ligue Cup football match Reims vs Monaco, on October 30, 2013 at the Auguste Delaune Stadium in Reims Monaco's unbeaten start to the season in France came to an end on Wednesday as they were knocked out of the League Cup, going down 1-0 at Reims. A first-half goal by midfielder Antoine Devaux saw the principality club lose for the first time in any game since early May as they exited the League Cup at the first hurdle. However, Monaco coach Claudio Ranieri had made as many as nine changes to the team that beat Lyon in Ligue 1 on Sunday, with the suspended Radamel Falcao among those missing. This weekend, Monaco travel to face Lille in Ligue 1 in a meeting of the two sides immediately behind Paris Saint-Germain at the top of the table. Lille have not lost or conceded a goal in their last six league games, although they were also knocked out of the League Cup this midweek, losing 1-0 at home after extra-time to second-tier Auxerre on Tuesday. Other top-flight sides to progress this midweek were Evian, Sochaux, Bastia, Toulouse, Nantes and Rennes. The 10 winners from this round will join France's six European representatives, who all received byes, in the draw for the last 16 of the much-maligned competition.

Juve, Napoli close gap on Roma. Napoli's Drie Mertens (R) celebrates after scoring with Gokhan Inler (C) and Valon Behrami (L) during the Italian Serie A football match Fiorentina vs Napoli on October 30, 2013 at the Artemio Franchi stadium in Florence Juventus outclassed Catania 4-0 and Napoli battled to a 2-1 win away to Fiorentina to move to within two points of Serie A leaders Roma on Wednesday. Roma, who set an all-time league record last Sunday by winning all nine of their opening games, will aim to make it 10 in a row on Thursday when they host bottom side Chievo at the Olympic Stadium. Chievo, who have four points and one win to their name all season, are set to become the latest victims of a rampant Roma side that has already accounted for Inter Milan, Napoli and Lazio. Juventus and Napoli, however, avoided any slip-ups to keep pace with Rudi Garcia's record-setting side. Champions Juve were in imperious form in Turin where Chilean midfielder Arturo Vidal started the rout with a deflected 28th minute strike, before Andrea Pirlo doubled the lead with a sumptuous curling free kick. Carlos Tevez made it 3-0 just after the hour mark and Antonio Conte's side wrapped up the points when Leonardo Bonucci was allowed to run in unchallenged and tap home Sebastian Giovinco's low pass. Away to Fiorentina, who stunned Juve with a come-from-behind 4-2 win two weeks ago, Napoli were expected to work hard for the points. However, Rafael Benitez's men were never under pressure, typified by a 12th minute opener after Gonazalo Higuain crossed to the right for Spaniard Jose Callejon to beat goalkeeper Neto with a sweetly-struck first-time strike. Fiorentina were soon back on level terms when Giuseppe Rossi's spot kick, after Borja Valero was fouled in the area, sent Pepe Reina the wrong way. It took Rossi's league-leading tally to nine goals, but his and Fiorentina's joy was short-lived. Napoli restored their advantage on 36 mintes when Dries Mertens ran unchallenged into the hosts' area to beat Neto with an angled strike. Fiorentina spurned several chances to pull level in the second half, Rossi sending his shot from a difficult angle wide of goal and then his curling effort bring a great diving save from Reina. Napoli midfielder Christian Maggio saw red on 80 minutes for a second bookable offence, but as Fiorentina battled for the equaliser, they were also reduced to 10 men when Juan Cuadrado was sent off in injury time for simulation after tumbling in the area under a challenge from Gokhan Inler. Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella thought it was a harsh decision and said: "We played an excellent game. They caused us problems when they were on the offensive, but we created a lot and didn't really deserve to lose. "Seeing Cuadrado sent off for simulation was strange." Benitez was keen to avoid provoking any controversy. "I don't really want to talk about refereeing decisions," the Spaniard told Sky Sport Italia. "We won because we managed to exploit the space behind their defence. We dominated possession and tried to maximise that, they're a difficult team to play at home." As league new boys Verona secured a precious 2-0 home win over struggling Sampdoria, Fiorentina's second reverse dropped them one place to sixth, nine points adrift of Roma and seven behind Napoli and Juventus. With coach Massimiliano Allegri under increasing pressure, AC Milan were desperate for all three points at home to Lazio and were sent on their way when Kaka scored a sublime individual goal just after the restart. The hosts, however, were stunned when French defender Michael Ciani fired home the equaliser on 72 minutes. Allegri's side host Fiorentina on Saturday and despite this latest setback the Italian remained defiant. "It's a bad spell for us. We're far off third place and we have to start winning again to climb the table," said Allegri. "But we can't let our heads go down. If we keep playing as we are I'm sure the results will come."

Ronaldo, Bale orchestrate Sevilla rout. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick and Gareth Bale a brace as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 7-3 in a La Liga clash at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night. Karim Benzema also bagged a brace on the night, ending his goalless streak for the Whites which had stretched to seven league games. Ivan Rakitic also netted a double for his side and Carlos Bacca added a third while Cameroon international Stephane Mbia was sent of with less than 15 minutes left on the clock. The visitors did a lot of attacking in the opening minutes but paid for it in the 13th minute when the home side opened the scoring from a swift counterattack. Isco carried the ball up on the left and slipped it through for Karim Benzema, who then cut it back for Bale to fire into the roof of the net from inside the box. Bale came close to completing his brace early in the first half, but his effort was pushed away by Beto in the 17th minute, before he fired just over the crossbar four minutes later. Sevilla had their first real effort at goal in the 24th minute when Ivan Rakitic found Alberto Moreno unmarked just outside the box, but the fullback rushed his effort wide of the upright. Bale did eventually score his second goal of the match three minutes later when his freekick deflected off Alberto Moreno and into the back of the net with Beto going the wrong way. Madrid extended their lead in the 32nd minute with Ronaldo converting from the penalty spot after Fernando Navarro was adjudged to have fouled Isco inside the box. The visitors were awarded a penalty of their own six minutes later when Diogo Figueiras went down inside the box under a challenge from Sergio Ramos, who was cautioned for the infringement. Sevilla captain Rakitic stepped up to take the resulting penalty kick and made no mistake as he buried his shot past the diving Diego Lopezand into the bottom left corner. Unai Emery's side scored their second goal of the match five minutes before the break Jairo Samperio received a cross from Victor Machin before setting Bacca to finish from close range. Bacca threatened to bag his brace two minutes into the second half when he cut in from the left side of the box before firing towards goal, but Lopez was able to make a comfortable save at his near post. Sevilla continued to push forward in search of the equaliser with Jairo forcing a good save from Lopez in the 53rd minute, the Madrid goalkeeper using his legs to keep his effort out. Lopez then released Bale on the right, who raced forward on the flank before squaring the ball for Benzema to score from the centre of the box. The former Tottenham Hotspur player was the supplier again on the hour mark as he played a low cross for Ronaldo to bury his first-time shot into the back of the net. However, Sevilla reduced the deficit just three minutes later when Rakitic collected a pass from Diego Perotti outside the box before placing his shot into the top right corner. Ronaldo completed his hat-trick in the 72nd minute, receiving the ball from Benzema on the left and cutting inside before beating Beto with a deflected strike. Sevilla were given an opportunity to get back into the game a minute later when they awarded their second penalty after Diogo went down under a challenge from Ronaldo, but this time Rakitic sent his shot over the crossbar. The visitors were then reduced to ten men in the 76th minute when Cameroon international Stephane Mbia was given his marching orders for a second bookable offence. Carlo Ancelotti's side sealed the win four minutes later with Benzema heading home at the far post to complete his brace, connecting with a cross from Marcelo.

Edin Dzeko says Manchester City are targeting final appearance. Edin Dzeko set his sights on Wembley after helping Manchester City to a 2-0 win over Newcastle in the Capital One Cup. City will travel to Leicester City in the quarter-finals of the competition after securing a win at St James' Park after extra time on Wednesday night. Dzeko played a pivotal role, setting up the opener for Alvaro Negredo, before scoring the second himself. And the striker thinks it was an important night for players on the fringes of City's first team. He said: "Tonight was a chance for those of us who maybe haven't played in the last few games to show the manager we deserve to play. "We have to show it on the pitch and I think we did that tonight." Dzeko was also full of praise for goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon, who won man of the match and is now putting Joe Hart under pressure for the number one shirt. "He was great," Dzeko said. "He's working hard in training and that is now the second game in the cup where he hasn't conceded a goal, so he's improving." The cup may be low on City's priority list but Dzeko insists they still want to win it. He added: "There's still three more games to the final but we definitely want to go there - that's our target."

Valencia stunned by Almería's Marco Torsiglieri and Aleix Vidal. Almería produced the result of the season in the Primera División with a shock come-from-behind victory at Valencia. Without a win from their 10 league matches and coming into the game on a run of five successive defeats, the bottom club were priced as long as 28-1 by bookmakers to triumph. But, despite conceding a penalty to Jonas just after the half-hour, Francisco Javier Rodríguez's side produced a second-half fightback with goals from Marco Torsiglieri and Aleix Vidal. The loss was Valencia's third in a row in the league and is likely to place their Serbian coach, Miroslav Djukic, under considerable pressure. This latest embarrassment comes after a 4-1 humbling at Villarreal on Sunday, a result Djukic claimed had led to a loss of morale among his players. In front of their own fans at the Mestalla, Valencia struggled in the opening exchanges, barely creating a chance of note before the Brazilian midfielder Jonas scored his fifth of the season from the spot after Hernán Pellarano had handled in the area. Two fine saves from Esteban Suárez either side of the interval to deny Juan Bernat and Javi Fuego kept Almería in the hunt until the hour mark, when they hauled themselves level. On loan from Metalist Kharkiv, the Argentinian defender Torsiglieri rose to meet an inswinging corner from Suso to plant home a header from six yards. Less than nine minutes later Vidal struck from 12 yards for his second goal of the season to put the visitors in front. Helder Postiga then had two late chances to salvage a draw was unable to spare Valencia's blushes.

Real Madrid (7) - (3) Sevilla. MATCH FACTS Real Madrid:Diego López, Arbeloa, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo, Illarramendi (Alonso 64), Khedira (Di Maria 82), Bale, Isco (Modric 71), Ronaldo, Benzema. Subs not used:Casillas, Pepe, Carvajal, Morata. Goals:Bale 13, 27, Ronaldo (pen) 32, 60, 71, Benzema 53, 80. Booked:Ramos, Arbeloa, Khedira. Sevilla:Beto, Pareja, Carriço, Navarro, Figueiras, Rakitic, Mbia, Alberto, Jairo (Perotti 62), Vitolo (Reyes 83), Bacca (Gameiro 62). Subs not used:Javi Varas, Cala, Iborra, Coke. Goals:Rakitic (pen) 38, 63, Bacca 40. Booked:Alberto, M'Bia. Sent off:M'Bia (76).

Real Madrid 7 Sevilla 3: Bale marks full Berna bow with brace, but Ronaldo steals the show with hat-trick in crazy encounter. Gareth Bale scored twice on his full league debut at the Bernabeu, but Cristiano Ronaldo went one better with a hat-trick in Real Madrid's thrilling 7-3 win over Sevilla. The £86m Welshman scored the first two goals of the evening before a penalty from Ronaldo made it 3-0. Sevilla then scored twice in two minutes to trail 3-2 at the break. Karim Benzema helped himself to two goals after half-time, as did Ronaldo, who completed his hat-trick in the 71st minute. Real cut the gap to leaders Barcelona to six points with their victory and trail second placed Atletico by two.

Hernandez: De Gea is the best in the world. Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has compared goalkeeper David De Gea to United legend Edwin van der Sar, describing the young Spaniard as the best goalkeeper in the world. United’s number one made some great saves against Stoke City at Old Trafford on Saturday and have proven that his development at the club is so much better from the goalkeeper that was continuously slated by the press. Chicharito, who scored the winner, earning United all three points paid tribute to his friend and team-mate suggesting that he was now on par with United’s 2008 UEFA Champions League final star, Edin van der Sar. The Mexican striker said: “He was wonderful. Like I always say, we are a team and there are no heroes, but in some games there are players who make the difference and David was the one on Saturday. “He’s a wonderful goalkeeper, for me he’s probably the best one in the world. People don’t like to say that but, for me, he probably is. David and Edwin van der Sar are two of the best goalkeepers I have trained with – wonderful. Same level, same style and David is improving day by day.” David Moyes told his players after the 3-2 win on Saturday that De Gea was one of the main reasons for the success. He even rushed from his goal at one point to make a crucial tackle. Hernandez concluded by saying what Moyes said to them after the match: “That’s what the gaffer said to us and we agreed that it was because of him we got the three points. He made two or three saves after the goals and he was just fantastic.” It really makes me confident to see a young goalkeeper with the confidence of De Gea. After signing him in the summer of 2011, and him being picked on by the press for making simple mistakes, it have given him the confidence and determination to prove them all wrong. It is because of their column inches that De Gea is the player he is today. It does annoy me when De Gea got slated for a slight mistake, but Joe Hart, who seems to be the master of gaffes right now, is till the golden boy, despite making his errors. But the long and tall of it is, De Gea is a Manchester United player, our players will always be subject to tough media scrutiny and I would not have it any other way.

Chelsea boss willing to match massive wages and land star. Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney wants a massive £70 million contract, which Chelsea are willing to match Rooney is looking for an improvement on his current £250,000-a-week salary and would want a five-year contract to stay at the club. But although Rooney’s form has dramatically improved this season – after a major dip during the last campaign, explained by a breakdown between the player and former manager Sir Alex Ferguson – the club remain reluctant to make such a massive financial commitment to a man who is now 28 years old. The club’s hand is strengthened by the fact that while it was widely known Rooney wanted away in the summer, only two teams displayed a genuine interest because of the phenomenal financial commitment.

Richards: Heart firmly in Manchester City. Fit-again Manchester City defender Micah Richards has spoken of his desire to remain at Eastlands for the rest of his professional career. The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from City as doubts over his long-term fitness crept in after a succession of injuries over the past two seasons. He recently made a comeback from his latest injury and has featured in three games so far in the current campaign. Richards has made it clear that he has no intention of leaving the club he joined as a 13-year-old, and believes that he has another 10 years of football to offer at the Etihad Stadium. "I've seen it all now," he was quoted as saying in theManchester Evening News. "Some amazing players have come and gone - there's been some good quality gone out of the window and in 10 years it would be good to tell the fans what I've seen. "I am back fit now and I believe when I am playing fit I am as good as anyone in the division playing that role. "It's about keeping fit and getting some games in. I felt I played well in the three games. "I'm not leaving City it's my club and I love it here. Ten more years - that's my aim."

Agger denies Anfield exit claim. Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has denied reports emanating from Denmark that he is looking to leave Anfield in the near future. Brendan Rodgers has left the 28-year-old on the bench in each of the Reds' last four league games as he persists with a three-man defence, with Kolo Toure, Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho the preferred trio. Agger has been linked with a move to Barcelona in recent months but the Danish centre-back expressed his desire to stay on Merseyside for the remainder of his contract which runs until 2016, however,TV3 Sportin Denmark have attributed quotes to the former Brondby youngster that indicate his willingness to move on. The report suggests that when asked what would make him leave, Agger reportedly aid: "First of all, if I don't play. If the manager doesn't think I'm good enough, that could make me leave Liverpool. "I'm here to play football, nothing else. So if I don't play football, then I don't want to be here anymore." Agger, though, moved to downplay talk of an imminent move, taking toTwitterto say: "Please stop all the tweets about me leaving! I'm not going anywhere! Will be back in the team soon."

Jovetic: Due a game Newcastle will hope to bounce back from their derby defeat when they take on Manchester City in the Capital One Cup at St James' Park on Wednesday. The Magpies became the first team to lose to Sunderland in the league this season when Fabio Borini's scorcher made it 2-1 to the Black Cats, and there is no respite for Alan Pardew's men as they vie with the Citizens for a place in the quarter-finals of the league cup. The Toon reached the last-16 with a 2-0 win over Championship outfit Leeds United at the back end of September through goals from Papiss Cisse and Yoan Gouffran. City, meanwhile, exacted some revenge on their conquerors in last season's FA Cup as they thrashed Wigan 5-0 in the previous round, but they too head into Wednesday's clash on the back of a defeat, having conceded a late goal to Fernando Torres to lose 2-1 to Chelsea at the weekend. Both managers are likely to tweak their starting line-ups, with Pardew's hand being forced at the back where both Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor are injury doubts. Manuel Pellegrini, meanwhile, is expected to draft in Stevan Jovetic who bagged a brace against the Latics, with Martin Demichelis expected to continue at the back after making his debut against the Blues.

Zaha, still part of my plans - Moyes Manchester United boss David Moyes has assured the world at large that Wilfried Zaha is indeed still part of his Premier League plans. The young England international has yet to make a debut for the Red Devils in the Premier League, and his constant exclusion has led many to speculate that the Ivory Coast-born player will be loaned out in the January transfer window. Moyes has stoked this speculation and even recently went as far as to publicly float the possibility of putting Zaha out on a loan deal on account of the stiff competition the forward faces at United. "It's not that Wilf has done anything wrong, it's just that we have big competition and we have to try to make sure he gets some playing time," the Scot told his club's official website. "I told him [Zaha] we would try to get him minutes but the competition in the wide areas we have with Nani, Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young, Adnan Januzaj and even Shinji Kagawa playing off the side means we are as strong there as anywhere." The former Everton boss then made an effort to appease those fans baying for the increased inclusion of the England international at Old Trafford. "I just don't think we have had the right opportunity to get him on as much as would have liked," the former centre back mused. "We don't want to put him in too quickly. We want to make it the right time." The 50-year-old added: "But he is very much in my plans and in my thoughts all the time."

Zaha, still part of my plans - Moyes Manchester United boss David Moyes has assured the world at large that Wilfried Zaha is indeed still part of his Premier League plans. The young England international has yet to make a debut for the Red Devils in the Premier League, and his constant exclusion has led many to speculate that the Ivory Coast-born player will be loaned out in the January transfer window. Moyes has stoked this speculation and even recently went as far as to publicly float the possibility of putting Zaha out on a loan deal on account of the stiff competition the forward faces at United. "It's not that Wilf has done anything wrong, it's just that we have big competition and we have to try to make sure he gets some playing time," the Scot told his club's official website. "I told him [Zaha] we would try to get him minutes but the competition in the wide areas we have with Nani, Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young, Adnan Januzaj and even Shinji Kagawa playing off the side means we are as strong there as anywhere." The former Everton boss then made an effort to appease those fans baying for the increased inclusion of the England international at Old Trafford. "I just don't think we have had the right opportunity to get him on as much as would have liked," the former centre back mused. "We don't want to put him in too quickly. We want to make it the right time." The 50-year-old added: "But he is very much in my plans and in my thoughts all the time."

Zaha, still part of my plans - Moyes Manchester United boss David Moyes has assured the world at large that Wilfried Zaha is indeed still part of his Premier League plans. The young England international has yet to make a debut for the Red Devils in the Premier League, and his constant exclusion has led many to speculate that the Ivory Coast-born player will be loaned out in the January transfer window. Moyes has stoked this speculation and even recently went as far as to publicly float the possibility of putting Zaha out on a loan deal on account of the stiff competition the forward faces at United. "It's not that Wilf has done anything wrong, it's just that we have big competition and we have to try to make sure he gets some playing time," the Scot told his club's official website. "I told him [Zaha] we would try to get him minutes but the competition in the wide areas we have with Nani, Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young, Adnan Januzaj and even Shinji Kagawa playing off the side means we are as strong there as anywhere." The former Everton boss then made an effort to appease those fans baying for the increased inclusion of the England international at Old Trafford. "I just don't think we have had the right opportunity to get him on as much as would have liked," the former centre back mused. "We don't want to put him in too quickly. We want to make it the right time." The 50-year-old added: "But he is very much in my plans and in my thoughts all the time."

Fergie: United can win the title. Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that the club can still win the league despite their poor start. United currently find themselves languishing in eighth place on the Premier League table, with just 14 points from their opening nine fixtures, eight points behind leaders Arsenal. It's the Red Devils' worst start to a season since 1989 and has left many questioning the appointment of Ferguson's successor, David Moyes. While the naysayers have already ruled United out of the title race, Ferguson believes that it's too early to rule out a revival. "We had bad starts to the season many times," said the 71-year-old. "We are the only club in that league that can come from behind to win the league because of our history." Ferguson has shown his support for Moyes but has warned the former Everton man that at a club of United's stature, the expectation of winning trophies will always be there. "The thing about coming to a club like United is you can never get away from the expectation and I learned about that quickly," he mused. "I spent a lot of stupid time looking at history, getting out early results from the 10 previous seasons and it was doing me no good, I was getting nowhere with that. "I learned you had to look at your own situation. Winning a trophy at any time is important at this club. "I was there 27 years and that gave me time to look ahead. "When clubs sack their manger they have no evidence it works. When a manager is consistent in his position the club does better and I strongly believe in that. "David Moyes had 10 years at Everton and when he joined he inherited a 'sell, sell, sell' (policy) but he built the club up."

Tyre repairer kidnaps son, demands N350,000 ransom. The State Security Service, Lagos State Command, has arrested a 48-year-old man, Samson Adebayo, for allegedly arranging the kidnap of his nine-year-old son, Emmanuel, and demanding a ransom of N350, 000. According to the SSS, Adebayo had solicited the help of his girlfriend, Kehinde Alonge, to kidnap Emmanuel from his residence at 2, Solomon Street, Ilu-Nla, Aradagun, Badagry. The director, SSS, Lagos State, Mr. Ben Achu-Olayi, said Adebayo reported the incident to security agents, pretending to be distraught. He said, “On October 7, 2013, the command received a report from Adebayo Samson, who complained that his son was kidnapped on October 3. “Consequently, the command swung into action with the aim of rescuing the victim and arresting the culprits. Preliminary investigations confirmed the kidnapping by Alonge, who had demanded a N350, 000 ransom. “She demanded that the ransom be paid into a United Bank of Africa account 2050908899, belonging to one Taiwo Faloye. Unknown to the suspects, we had set up a flag on the account with the bank’s cooperation and were alerted when N230, 000 was remitted.” He said Alonge was arrested when she went to withdraw the money from a UBA branch at Ilesha, Osun State, adding that during interrogation, Alonge, a hairdresser, fingered the victim’s father. He said, “Following Alonge’s confession, Adebayo was arrested. He confessed that he planned his son’s kidnap in order to extort money from some of his church members and sympathisers.” Achu-Olayi warned parents to avoid endangering the lives of their children for the sake of money. He said, “We have noticed that crimes of this nature are usually committed by parents or close relations and we are warning them that we will not tolerate such acts.” The suspects, however, traded blame over the incident when our correspondent spoke with them. Adebayo accused Alonge of coming up with the plan in order to raise N200, 000 for a beauty salon. Alonge however denied this. She said, “I was in Ilesha when he (Adebayo) called me to come to Lagos that some people owed him money. He said the only way to collect the money from them was for me to come and take his son away, while he pretends that he had been kidnapped. “I came to Lagos on October 4, 2013. I intended going to the school to pick the boy but Adebayo advised that I pick him from the house. Since the children knew me, I told the boy to follow me to get something outside, only to enter the next available vehicle to Ilesha, Osun State. “His father even gave me N3,000 for transport. When we got to Ilesha, he sent another N3, 750 worth of recharge cards for his feeding. He even called his son on the telephone on daily basis. “He was the one that asked me to demand N350, 000 but at the end of the bargain, he said I should accept N200,000. Since I had no bank account, I asked one of my relatives to give me his account details. But we were arrested at the point of withdrawal.” Adebayo said, “I agreed to the plan because I was broke. I have been a vulcaniser for 20 years and I am poor. I have two kids and my wife is at a church, where she is being healed of paralysis. “Kehinde was the one that brought up the idea that we should kidnap my son and I agreed because I needed the money too. My share would have been N100, 000 if we had succeeded. “I feel so ashamed of myself because what I did was wrong. I hope the government forgives me and let me go home. I won’t do it again.”

Walker signs new deal at Spurs. Tottenham defender Kyle Walker has signed a new contract keeping him at the Premier League club until 2019. Walker has become a key figure at right-back for Spurs since arriving from Sheffield United in 2009 and has also broken into Roy Hodgson's England team. The 23-year-old was voted the Professional Footballers Association Young Player of the Year for 2012 and has made 112 appearances for the north London club. "It's fantastic," Walker said on Monday. "When I first signed here at the age of 18, I always wanted to make it a long stay. "The lads are fantastic as well as the manager and everyone surrounding the club - it just makes it a lot easier when they do offer you a contract to sign it. "I'm very thankful to the chairman Daniel Levy for giving me an extension on the contract and hopefully I can repay him by putting the performances in on the pitch and getting that top four spot." Walker made his Tottenham debut in a 2-0 win over Portsmouth in March 2010 but played just once in the following season before being sent to QPR then Aston Villa. Having proved his credentials on loan, he forced his way into the Tottenham first team and stayed there for the duration of the 2011-12 campaign. A month later he made his England debut at Wembley as a substitute against Spain and was handed his first start four days later in a 1-0 win over Sweden. Walker has won nine caps to date, the last of which came in the 4-1 victory over Montenegro, and is vying with Liverpool's Glen Johnson for the starting berth at next year's World Cup.

Wenger wants Arsenal to prove their worth. Arsene Wenger says Arsenal's League Cup fourth round tie against Chelsea on Tuesday is a golden opportunity to prove they can be serious contenders for silverware. Wenger's team have gone eight years without a trophy, but they are finally showing signs of once again becoming major players in the race for the sport's top prizes. They hold a two-point lead over second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League after seven wins in an eight-match unbeaten run and Wenger believes Arsenal's clash with Jose Mourinho's men at the Emirates Stadium provides another chance to underline their improvement this season. "We haven't won the title for a few years and people question that now," Wenger said. "At the end of the day, the Premier League will reflect the quality of the performances of the team throughout the season and how well you do in the big games. "This is a good opportunity for us to show we are ready." However, Wenger, who is likely to field a weakened team, is uncertain if the League Cup clash will have an impact on the Premier League title race and is unconcerned by the opinion of those who believe his side will be overhauled at the top of the standings. "I'm not sure it will affect the Premier League at all, but you know people will look at you, how you behave and whether you can win the big games like that," Wenger said. "What is for sure is that you want to win these sort of games. That has a certain psychological influence on the team. "What we want to do is to show that we want to be considered as a very strong team and that comes only with the way we play and with the results, so let's just focus on that. We will absolutely go for this game." The match pits Wenger against his old adversary Mourinho for the first time since the Chelsea boss returned to English football after spells with Real Madrid and Inter Milan. Wenger endured a difficult relationship with Mourinho during his first stint in charge at Chelsea, but refused to be drawn into a war of words ahead of their latest clash. "It was not a big surprise because there was talk about it many times," Wenger said of Mourinho's return. "When he left Madrid, it looked to be one of his best opportunities to come back."

Wenger wants Arsenal to prove their worth. Arsene Wenger says Arsenal's League Cup fourth round tie against Chelsea on Tuesday is a golden opportunity to prove they can be serious contenders for silverware. Wenger's team have gone eight years without a trophy, but they are finally showing signs of once again becoming major players in the race for the sport's top prizes. They hold a two-point lead over second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League after seven wins in an eight-match unbeaten run and Wenger believes Arsenal's clash with Jose Mourinho's men at the Emirates Stadium provides another chance to underline their improvement this season. "We haven't won the title for a few years and people question that now," Wenger said. "At the end of the day, the Premier League will reflect the quality of the performances of the team throughout the season and how well you do in the big games. "This is a good opportunity for us to show we are ready." However, Wenger, who is likely to field a weakened team, is uncertain if the League Cup clash will have an impact on the Premier League title race and is unconcerned by the opinion of those who believe his side will be overhauled at the top of the standings. "I'm not sure it will affect the Premier League at all, but you know people will look at you, how you behave and whether you can win the big games like that," Wenger said. "What is for sure is that you want to win these sort of games. That has a certain psychological influence on the team. "What we want to do is to show that we want to be considered as a very strong team and that comes only with the way we play and with the results, so let's just focus on that. We will absolutely go for this game." The match pits Wenger against his old adversary Mourinho for the first time since the Chelsea boss returned to English football after spells with Real Madrid and Inter Milan. Wenger endured a difficult relationship with Mourinho during his first stint in charge at Chelsea, but refused to be drawn into a war of words ahead of their latest clash. "It was not a big surprise because there was talk about it many times," Wenger said of Mourinho's return. "When he left Madrid, it looked to be one of his best opportunities to come back."

Wenger wants Arsenal to prove their worth. Arsene Wenger says Arsenal's League Cup fourth round tie against Chelsea on Tuesday is a golden opportunity to prove they can be serious contenders for silverware. Wenger's team have gone eight years without a trophy, but they are finally showing signs of once again becoming major players in the race for the sport's top prizes. They hold a two-point lead over second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League after seven wins in an eight-match unbeaten run and Wenger believes Arsenal's clash with Jose Mourinho's men at the Emirates Stadium provides another chance to underline their improvement this season. "We haven't won the title for a few years and people question that now," Wenger said. "At the end of the day, the Premier League will reflect the quality of the performances of the team throughout the season and how well you do in the big games. "This is a good opportunity for us to show we are ready." However, Wenger, who is likely to field a weakened team, is uncertain if the League Cup clash will have an impact on the Premier League title race and is unconcerned by the opinion of those who believe his side will be overhauled at the top of the standings. "I'm not sure it will affect the Premier League at all, but you know people will look at you, how you behave and whether you can win the big games like that," Wenger said. "What is for sure is that you want to win these sort of games. That has a certain psychological influence on the team. "What we want to do is to show that we want to be considered as a very strong team and that comes only with the way we play and with the results, so let's just focus on that. We will absolutely go for this game." The match pits Wenger against his old adversary Mourinho for the first time since the Chelsea boss returned to English football after spells with Real Madrid and Inter Milan. Wenger endured a difficult relationship with Mourinho during his first stint in charge at Chelsea, but refused to be drawn into a war of words ahead of their latest clash. "It was not a big surprise because there was talk about it many times," Wenger said of Mourinho's return. "When he left Madrid, it looked to be one of his best opportunities to come back."

Mourinho fumes over Arsenal fixture schedule. Jose Mourinho insists he has been left with no choice but to send out an under-strength Chelsea team in Tuesday's League Cup fourth round clash at Arsenal. Mourinho is fuming that League Cup fixture planners decided to schedule Chelsea's trip to the Emirates Stadium just 48 hours after his side's 2-1 win over Manchester City in the Premier League. The Blues boss claims Arsenal have been given an unfair advantage because they played at Crystal Palace on Saturday lunchtime, giving them extra time to recover before the London derby. Mourinho's complaints ignore the fact that Gunners manager Arsene Wenger routinely fields shadow squads made up of fringe players and youngsters in the League Cup, but that didn't stop the Portuguese coach letting rip when asked if he would field a strong team for the last 16 tie. "We are going to give the game that the people that put the game on Tuesday want. If they want a big game, we cannot give the big game," Mourinho said. "If they want the players that were playing today (Sunday), we cannot give them that. If they want Arsenal to win a trophy, that's a help. "If they want a big game between two big teams in London, they should put the game on Wednesday and not on Tuesday, because I am not going to do that." Mourinho claimed that, out of respect for Chelsea's fans, he would stop short of sending out a starting line-up made up entirely of youth team players. But he has no intention of putting his key stars under what he believes is unfair duress. "It's not the plan because we have to respect also our fans. We discussed that in the club. We have to protect our players," he said. "We cannot put our players in two matches in the space of three days. Arsenal played Saturday at 12:30, so two and a half days to rest and to prepare. So I hope they all enjoy." With both sides set to field weakened teams, the edge has been taken off what could have been an fascinating clash between the top two teams in the current Premier League standings. Even so, there could still be a few sparks flying on the touchline as Mourinho and Wenger renew hostilities for first time since the Chelsea chief returned to England after spells at Real Madrid and Inter Milan. Mourinho infuriated Wenger during his first stint at Chelsea by describing his rival as a "voyeur" who was obsessed by the Blues. And, asked about their relationship on Sunday, Mourinho was unable to resist another mischievous jab at the Frenchman. "We have no problems, no. Unless you tell me that he had an influence on this (the timing of matches). If you tell me that?" Wenger was keener to keep the focus on the pitch and he called on his players to show they believe they are capable of finally winning silverware this season after an eight-year trophy drought. "There are people who do not believe that we have a chance, but the only thing we can do is win our games," Wenger said. "The only thing which is important is every win makes you a bit stronger and strengthens the belief." Elsewhere in the fourth round, Manchester United will look to maintain the momentum of their come-from-behind 3-2 win over Stoke on Saturday when they face Norwich at Old Trafford. Tottenham meet Hull for the second time in four days looking for a repeat of their 1-0 win over Steve Bruce's side in the Premier League on Sunday. Newcastle, beaten by hated neighbours Sunderland, and Manchester City, defeated by title rivals Chelsea, will both be desperate to get back on track at St James' Park.

Tottenham search for ways to spur more fervour in fans. Although Andre Villas-Boas’s frank judgement of the atmosphere at White Hart Lane was a surprise at the time, it will not have been to Tottenham Hotspur. On Sunday evening Villas-Boas went where many managers fear to tread, but the club – who appreciate what a problem this is – had already been working on exactly this issue earlier that day. The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust, in the form of vice-president Darren Alexander and secretary Katrina Law, were in White Hart Lane hours before the turnstiles opened, measuring up the blocks of the Park Lane lower where they hope to introduce a large “surfing” flag. The last remaining barrier to this is a meeting with the safety advisory board of the local Haringey Council on 5 November. The THST has been working constructively with the club for months for new and updated flags and banners inside the ground, which – Uefa games aside – should also hang down from the balconies of the Park Lane and Paxton stands. The THST is taking submissions from fans on designs for new banners, and the club are relaxed about supporters using the club crest, while the names of former players or the famous words of Bill Nicholson and Arthur Rowe might also be used. Tottenham are, on this issue, sympathetic to the THST, understanding the benefit of increased engagement, especially with younger supporters. Some club officials are excited by the prospect of seeing White Hart Lane decked in flags and banners, not just for their sake but for the international television audience. There is a hope among fans for safe standing at White Hart Lane, on which the club are keeping a watching brief. There is certainly a wide understanding that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane is not what it was and there was more sympathy than one might expect for Villas-Boas’s comments. “We agree with Andre that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane has been declining for some time,” Alexander of the THST toldThe Independentlast night. “It is nowhere near as good as our atmosphere at away games. We absolutely back Andre in what he said.” This might just be the cost of success. It has always been suspected that there is an inverse correlation between wins on the pitch and noise off it, and the evidence of Spurs could well support that. “It says to me that the more competitive we get, the worse our atmosphere gets. The expectation at White Hart Lane is so great, and now because we are chasing top four every game has a great significance.” “It could be that a game against Hull, if you slip up and draw 0-0, that could be the difference between Champions League football next year or not.” As with many Premier League grounds, the average age of fans is older than ever before. The THST estimates the average age of season-ticket holders as 42 or 43, and there is a fear that young fans are being priced out. This, of course, is a league-wide problem, although Spurs’ prices for their six Category A league games are certainly high – ranging between £48 and £81 for adults. Tomorrow night’s Capital One Cup game against Hull, though, is £20 for seniors. In the secondary ticket market there is another concern which is starting to frustrate some fans. Once games sell out, Spurs allow season-ticket holders to sell their unwanted tickets on StubHub for higher prices, with an estimated 3 to 4 per cent of tickets for each game ending up there. There is a petition – backed by the THST – against this practice, described by the Football Supporters’ Federation as “legalised touting”, which has been signed by more than 2,000 Spurs fans. Tottenham, though, insist it has no impact on the atmosphere.

Tottenham search for ways to spur more fervour in fans. Although Andre Villas-Boas’s frank judgement of the atmosphere at White Hart Lane was a surprise at the time, it will not have been to Tottenham Hotspur. On Sunday evening Villas-Boas went where many managers fear to tread, but the club – who appreciate what a problem this is – had already been working on exactly this issue earlier that day. The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust, in the form of vice-president Darren Alexander and secretary Katrina Law, were in White Hart Lane hours before the turnstiles opened, measuring up the blocks of the Park Lane lower where they hope to introduce a large “surfing” flag. The last remaining barrier to this is a meeting with the safety advisory board of the local Haringey Council on 5 November. The THST has been working constructively with the club for months for new and updated flags and banners inside the ground, which – Uefa games aside – should also hang down from the balconies of the Park Lane and Paxton stands. The THST is taking submissions from fans on designs for new banners, and the club are relaxed about supporters using the club crest, while the names of former players or the famous words of Bill Nicholson and Arthur Rowe might also be used. Tottenham are, on this issue, sympathetic to the THST, understanding the benefit of increased engagement, especially with younger supporters. Some club officials are excited by the prospect of seeing White Hart Lane decked in flags and banners, not just for their sake but for the international television audience. There is a hope among fans for safe standing at White Hart Lane, on which the club are keeping a watching brief. There is certainly a wide understanding that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane is not what it was and there was more sympathy than one might expect for Villas-Boas’s comments. “We agree with Andre that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane has been declining for some time,” Alexander of the THST toldThe Independentlast night. “It is nowhere near as good as our atmosphere at away games. We absolutely back Andre in what he said.” This might just be the cost of success. It has always been suspected that there is an inverse correlation between wins on the pitch and noise off it, and the evidence of Spurs could well support that. “It says to me that the more competitive we get, the worse our atmosphere gets. The expectation at White Hart Lane is so great, and now because we are chasing top four every game has a great significance.” “It could be that a game against Hull, if you slip up and draw 0-0, that could be the difference between Champions League football next year or not.” As with many Premier League grounds, the average age of fans is older than ever before. The THST estimates the average age of season-ticket holders as 42 or 43, and there is a fear that young fans are being priced out. This, of course, is a league-wide problem, although Spurs’ prices for their six Category A league games are certainly high – ranging between £48 and £81 for adults. Tomorrow night’s Capital One Cup game against Hull, though, is £20 for seniors. In the secondary ticket market there is another concern which is starting to frustrate some fans. Once games sell out, Spurs allow season-ticket holders to sell their unwanted tickets on StubHub for higher prices, with an estimated 3 to 4 per cent of tickets for each game ending up there. There is a petition – backed by the THST – against this practice, described by the Football Supporters’ Federation as “legalised touting”, which has been signed by more than 2,000 Spurs fans. Tottenham, though, insist it has no impact on the atmosphere.

Tottenham search for ways to spur more fervour in fans. Although Andre Villas-Boas’s frank judgement of the atmosphere at White Hart Lane was a surprise at the time, it will not have been to Tottenham Hotspur. On Sunday evening Villas-Boas went where many managers fear to tread, but the club – who appreciate what a problem this is – had already been working on exactly this issue earlier that day. The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust, in the form of vice-president Darren Alexander and secretary Katrina Law, were in White Hart Lane hours before the turnstiles opened, measuring up the blocks of the Park Lane lower where they hope to introduce a large “surfing” flag. The last remaining barrier to this is a meeting with the safety advisory board of the local Haringey Council on 5 November. The THST has been working constructively with the club for months for new and updated flags and banners inside the ground, which – Uefa games aside – should also hang down from the balconies of the Park Lane and Paxton stands. The THST is taking submissions from fans on designs for new banners, and the club are relaxed about supporters using the club crest, while the names of former players or the famous words of Bill Nicholson and Arthur Rowe might also be used. Tottenham are, on this issue, sympathetic to the THST, understanding the benefit of increased engagement, especially with younger supporters. Some club officials are excited by the prospect of seeing White Hart Lane decked in flags and banners, not just for their sake but for the international television audience. There is a hope among fans for safe standing at White Hart Lane, on which the club are keeping a watching brief. There is certainly a wide understanding that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane is not what it was and there was more sympathy than one might expect for Villas-Boas’s comments. “We agree with Andre that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane has been declining for some time,” Alexander of the THST toldThe Independentlast night. “It is nowhere near as good as our atmosphere at away games. We absolutely back Andre in what he said.” This might just be the cost of success. It has always been suspected that there is an inverse correlation between wins on the pitch and noise off it, and the evidence of Spurs could well support that. “It says to me that the more competitive we get, the worse our atmosphere gets. The expectation at White Hart Lane is so great, and now because we are chasing top four every game has a great significance.” “It could be that a game against Hull, if you slip up and draw 0-0, that could be the difference between Champions League football next year or not.” As with many Premier League grounds, the average age of fans is older than ever before. The THST estimates the average age of season-ticket holders as 42 or 43, and there is a fear that young fans are being priced out. This, of course, is a league-wide problem, although Spurs’ prices for their six Category A league games are certainly high – ranging between £48 and £81 for adults. Tomorrow night’s Capital One Cup game against Hull, though, is £20 for seniors. In the secondary ticket market there is another concern which is starting to frustrate some fans. Once games sell out, Spurs allow season-ticket holders to sell their unwanted tickets on StubHub for higher prices, with an estimated 3 to 4 per cent of tickets for each game ending up there. There is a petition – backed by the THST – against this practice, described by the Football Supporters’ Federation as “legalised touting”, which has been signed by more than 2,000 Spurs fans. Tottenham, though, insist it has no impact on the atmosphere.

Tottenham search for ways to spur more fervour in fans. Although Andre Villas-Boas’s frank judgement of the atmosphere at White Hart Lane was a surprise at the time, it will not have been to Tottenham Hotspur. On Sunday evening Villas-Boas went where many managers fear to tread, but the club – who appreciate what a problem this is – had already been working on exactly this issue earlier that day. The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust, in the form of vice-president Darren Alexander and secretary Katrina Law, were in White Hart Lane hours before the turnstiles opened, measuring up the blocks of the Park Lane lower where they hope to introduce a large “surfing” flag. The last remaining barrier to this is a meeting with the safety advisory board of the local Haringey Council on 5 November. The THST has been working constructively with the club for months for new and updated flags and banners inside the ground, which – Uefa games aside – should also hang down from the balconies of the Park Lane and Paxton stands. The THST is taking submissions from fans on designs for new banners, and the club are relaxed about supporters using the club crest, while the names of former players or the famous words of Bill Nicholson and Arthur Rowe might also be used. Tottenham are, on this issue, sympathetic to the THST, understanding the benefit of increased engagement, especially with younger supporters. Some club officials are excited by the prospect of seeing White Hart Lane decked in flags and banners, not just for their sake but for the international television audience. There is a hope among fans for safe standing at White Hart Lane, on which the club are keeping a watching brief. There is certainly a wide understanding that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane is not what it was and there was more sympathy than one might expect for Villas-Boas’s comments. “We agree with Andre that the atmosphere at White Hart Lane has been declining for some time,” Alexander of the THST toldThe Independentlast night. “It is nowhere near as good as our atmosphere at away games. We absolutely back Andre in what he said.” This might just be the cost of success. It has always been suspected that there is an inverse correlation between wins on the pitch and noise off it, and the evidence of Spurs could well support that. “It says to me that the more competitive we get, the worse our atmosphere gets. The expectation at White Hart Lane is so great, and now because we are chasing top four every game has a great significance.” “It could be that a game against Hull, if you slip up and draw 0-0, that could be the difference between Champions League football next year or not.” As with many Premier League grounds, the average age of fans is older than ever before. The THST estimates the average age of season-ticket holders as 42 or 43, and there is a fear that young fans are being priced out. This, of course, is a league-wide problem, although Spurs’ prices for their six Category A league games are certainly high – ranging between £48 and £81 for adults. Tomorrow night’s Capital One Cup game against Hull, though, is £20 for seniors. In the secondary ticket market there is another concern which is starting to frustrate some fans. Once games sell out, Spurs allow season-ticket holders to sell their unwanted tickets on StubHub for higher prices, with an estimated 3 to 4 per cent of tickets for each game ending up there. There is a petition – backed by the THST – against this practice, described by the Football Supporters’ Federation as “legalised touting”, which has been signed by more than 2,000 Spurs fans. Tottenham, though, insist it has no impact on the atmosphere.

Iran ‘ll fall like Iraq – Eaglets. Coach Manu Garba (MFR) said he already has a winning strategy in place to dismantle Iran in today’s 2013 U-17 FIFA World Cup second round match at the Khalifa Bin Zayed midfield. Stadium in Al Ain. The match which would kick-off at 8:00 pm local time (5:00pm in Nigeria), according to Manu, offers the Nigerian youngsters the chance to continue with their excellent form in the competition. “We would ensure that we win this game within the allotted time and we are looking at the possibility of not allowing the game to be dragged unto a penalty shootout,” said Manu who further reinforced his stand at the official Press Conference. Nigeria’s line up during the FIFA U17 group F match between Sweden and Nigeria at Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium on October 22, 2013 in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. (Photo FIFA) “Yes, I agree that Iran has been making progress since they started but they won’t progress (beyond the second round) at the expense of Nigeria on Tuesday. They will go the way of Iraq”. Though sounding very optimistic that the match would be won by his glory-seeking side within the regulation time , Manu and his assistants were not taking chances as they drilled and perfected penalty kicks with the players at their last training session. It would be recalled that a penalty kick cost the team dear at the CAN Under-17 final when they lost 5-4 to Cote d’Ivoire after a pulsating 1-1 draw. “Against Iran, there won’t be any margin for errors and we want you to pay proper attention to everything we have done and would do for this match, “Manu further told the players. At the Press Conference proper, Manu said he was not under any pressure rather he has the belief that destiny already had something in store for Nigeria to win yet her fourth title on an Asian soil. He said: “All Nigeria’s previous victories in 1985; 1993 and 2007 were all in Asia and we are here again in Asia in 2013 and I think history favours us to win this trophy. “But we are not talking about winning the trophy now, rather we are talking about Iran and Insha Allah( by the grace of Allah), we shall win our match against Iran,” he noted before going for a photo-shoot with Iran’s counterpart, Coach Ali Doustimehr. We ‘ll shut out Eaglets — Iran As Nigerian confront Iran today at the Kalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi has said that the Iranians would not allow the Golden Eaglets to run the rule in the “Nigeria are a very good team and have proved that they are one of the best here. They want to win but we want to show that we would not lose easily. We will play a good game and be strong on the day. We know Nigeria’s style of play, that they like to make use of the midfield, with some quick passes. “We know that for us to be competitive, we have to shut them out and that is the plan that we are going to work on and hope to achieve. We must shut them out and make them not to score”, added Ezatolahi.

Iran ‘ll fall like Iraq – Eaglets. Coach Manu Garba (MFR) said he already has a winning strategy in place to dismantle Iran in today’s 2013 U-17 FIFA World Cup second round match at the Khalifa Bin Zayed midfield. Stadium in Al Ain. The match which would kick-off at 8:00 pm local time (5:00pm in Nigeria), according to Manu, offers the Nigerian youngsters the chance to continue with their excellent form in the competition. “We would ensure that we win this game within the allotted time and we are looking at the possibility of not allowing the game to be dragged unto a penalty shootout,” said Manu who further reinforced his stand at the official Press Conference. Nigeria’s line up during the FIFA U17 group F match between Sweden and Nigeria at Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium on October 22, 2013 in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. (Photo FIFA) “Yes, I agree that Iran has been making progress since they started but they won’t progress (beyond the second round) at the expense of Nigeria on Tuesday. They will go the way of Iraq”. Though sounding very optimistic that the match would be won by his glory-seeking side within the regulation time , Manu and his assistants were not taking chances as they drilled and perfected penalty kicks with the players at their last training session. It would be recalled that a penalty kick cost the team dear at the CAN Under-17 final when they lost 5-4 to Cote d’Ivoire after a pulsating 1-1 draw. “Against Iran, there won’t be any margin for errors and we want you to pay proper attention to everything we have done and would do for this match, “Manu further told the players. At the Press Conference proper, Manu said he was not under any pressure rather he has the belief that destiny already had something in store for Nigeria to win yet her fourth title on an Asian soil. He said: “All Nigeria’s previous victories in 1985; 1993 and 2007 were all in Asia and we are here again in Asia in 2013 and I think history favours us to win this trophy. “But we are not talking about winning the trophy now, rather we are talking about Iran and Insha Allah( by the grace of Allah), we shall win our match against Iran,” he noted before going for a photo-shoot with Iran’s counterpart, Coach Ali Doustimehr. We ‘ll shut out Eaglets — Iran As Nigerian confront Iran today at the Kalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi has said that the Iranians would not allow the Golden Eaglets to run the rule in the “Nigeria are a very good team and have proved that they are one of the best here. They want to win but we want to show that we would not lose easily. We will play a good game and be strong on the day. We know Nigeria’s style of play, that they like to make use of the midfield, with some quick passes. “We know that for us to be competitive, we have to shut them out and that is the plan that we are going to work on and hope to achieve. We must shut them out and make them not to score”, added Ezatolahi.

Iran ‘ll fall like Iraq – Eaglets. Coach Manu Garba (MFR) said he already has a winning strategy in place to dismantle Iran in today’s 2013 U-17 FIFA World Cup second round match at the Khalifa Bin Zayed midfield. Stadium in Al Ain. The match which would kick-off at 8:00 pm local time (5:00pm in Nigeria), according to Manu, offers the Nigerian youngsters the chance to continue with their excellent form in the competition. “We would ensure that we win this game within the allotted time and we are looking at the possibility of not allowing the game to be dragged unto a penalty shootout,” said Manu who further reinforced his stand at the official Press Conference. Nigeria’s line up during the FIFA U17 group F match between Sweden and Nigeria at Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium on October 22, 2013 in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. (Photo FIFA) “Yes, I agree that Iran has been making progress since they started but they won’t progress (beyond the second round) at the expense of Nigeria on Tuesday. They will go the way of Iraq”. Though sounding very optimistic that the match would be won by his glory-seeking side within the regulation time , Manu and his assistants were not taking chances as they drilled and perfected penalty kicks with the players at their last training session. It would be recalled that a penalty kick cost the team dear at the CAN Under-17 final when they lost 5-4 to Cote d’Ivoire after a pulsating 1-1 draw. “Against Iran, there won’t be any margin for errors and we want you to pay proper attention to everything we have done and would do for this match, “Manu further told the players. At the Press Conference proper, Manu said he was not under any pressure rather he has the belief that destiny already had something in store for Nigeria to win yet her fourth title on an Asian soil. He said: “All Nigeria’s previous victories in 1985; 1993 and 2007 were all in Asia and we are here again in Asia in 2013 and I think history favours us to win this trophy. “But we are not talking about winning the trophy now, rather we are talking about Iran and Insha Allah( by the grace of Allah), we shall win our match against Iran,” he noted before going for a photo-shoot with Iran’s counterpart, Coach Ali Doustimehr. We ‘ll shut out Eaglets — Iran As Nigerian confront Iran today at the Kalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi has said that the Iranians would not allow the Golden Eaglets to run the rule in the “Nigeria are a very good team and have proved that they are one of the best here. They want to win but we want to show that we would not lose easily. We will play a good game and be strong on the day. We know Nigeria’s style of play, that they like to make use of the midfield, with some quick passes. “We know that for us to be competitive, we have to shut them out and that is the plan that we are going to work on and hope to achieve. We must shut them out and make them not to score”, added Ezatolahi.

Eaglets Vs Iran: No more silly mistakes – Garba warns Eaglets. GoldenEaglets battle Iran in a round of 16 match today at the Kalifa Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain City with Coach Manu Garba warning his boys that they cannot afford to make silly mistakes or else they would be on the flight back to Nigeria. The Nigerians are favourites to progress to the quarterfinal but after showing some lapses in the defence, they have come under some stinging criticisms here and speaking yesterday at the pre-match conference, Garba said that at this stage of the tournament, caution is the word for his team. Manu Garba, head coach of Nigeria ponders during the FIFA U17 group F match between Sweden and Nigeria at Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium on October 22, 2013 in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. Photo by FIFA “This is the most important and difficult part of the tournament. Any silly mistakes then we are out and home-bound, which is not what we want. I have told my boys that they must avoid silly mistakes and I see that they are focused and ready to give their best, which must be a win against Iran. “We have won this title three times on Asian continent and now we are back in Asia and I believe in destiny and that what will be will be and God willing, we will be in the next round and from there, go on to win the title. “I am using psychological warfare on any team. The odds favour Nigeria to win the tournament here and we need elements of luck to go through against Iran”, added Garba, who assisted late Coach Yemi Tella to win the title in the 2007 edition held in South Korea. He also commended goalkeeper Dele Alampasu for keeping a clean-sheet in their 5-0 whipping of Iraq, adding that he expects him to replicate such a form against Iran today. “He made schoolboy errors against Sweden but the goalkeeper’s trainer, Emeka Amadi worked on him and he gave a very good account of himself in the last match and we expect him to be equally impressive against Iran”, said Garba.

Roma set record, Parma stun Milan. League leaders Roma beat Udinese 1-0 away on Sunday to set a new all-time record of nine consecutive wins at the start of a Serie A season and restore their five-point cushion. Roma, who have conceded just one goal in their nine wins under French coach Rudi Garcia, were reduced to 10 men in the second half after Brazilian Maicon saw red for a second bookable offence. However the setback failed to shake the leaders, who virtually sealed the points when American Michael Bradley scored with a precise first-time shot in the 82nd minute. Udinese were unlucky to see one goalbound shot cleared off the line in the first half and coach Francesco Guidolin said: "Roma are a great side, they showed that when they were reduced to 10 men, but in the first half they rode their luck a little." Garcia said if there was good fortune, Roma had created it themselves. "You make your own luck," Garcia told Sky Sport Italia. "Especially when you give everything, week in week out." Defending champions Juventus had set a record of nine successive wins at the start of the 2005-2006 campaign, although that feat no longer stands after the Turin giants were stripped of that season's crown, as well as the previous year's, due to their role in the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal. Title challengers Napoli had piled the pressure on Garcia's side before what was always going to be a tough away trip to Udinese by dominating Torino 2-0 at the San Paolo. And for much of what was a balanced encounter, Roma finally looked as if they would fail to take all three points for the first time in the league this season. Both sides saw several chances go amiss but Udinese were denied a near certain opener on 38 minutes when Leandro Castan peformed heroics, his overhead kick on the goalline keeping out Gabriel Silva's goalbound effort. Eight minutes after the restart Maicon's drive from 15 metres sailed just over the Udinese crossbar, but 13 minutes later he marched off after an unnecessary foul on Emmanuel Badu in midfield. Roma, to their credit, kept their calm and Dutch midfielder Kevin Strootman held up play at the edge of the area before squaring for Bradley to beat Kevala with a coolly-taken first-timer. Roma now lead Napoli by five points with Juventus remaining in third, also five points adrift, after a 2-0 home win over Genoa. Arturo Vidal, who had hit the crossbar with an angled drive early in the first half, opened the scoring with a 23rd minute penalty, although Juve midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah appeared to have been fouled outside the box. Asamoah was pivotal in Juve's second, his dribbling on the left mesmerising the Genoa defence before Tevez collected his pass, feinted past one defender and beat Mattia Perrin in the visitors' net. This video is not available.Juve coach Antonio Conte was pleased with his side's performance, especially the emerging pairing of Tevez and Spain international Fernando Llorente: "I liked what I saw from Tevez and Llorente, they are beginning to play well together." Days after an impressive performance which earned a 1-1 draw at home to Champions League group opponents Barcelona, AC Milan dropped precious points in a 3-2 defeat at Parma. Parma stunned Massimiliano Allegri's side when Marco Parolo grabbed his second in the fourth minute of injury time to send his side up to seventh in the table. In Sunday's late match Miroslav Klose scored with a header shortly after the restart and Antonio Candreva added a second from the spot for Lazio two minutes later to seal a 2-0 win at home to Cagliari. It ended a sorry run of results for Vladimir Petkovic's side, whose fourth win moved then up to seventh albeit 13 points adrift of city rivals Roma.

Roma set record, Parma stun Milan. League leaders Roma beat Udinese 1-0 away on Sunday to set a new all-time record of nine consecutive wins at the start of a Serie A season and restore their five-point cushion. Roma, who have conceded just one goal in their nine wins under French coach Rudi Garcia, were reduced to 10 men in the second half after Brazilian Maicon saw red for a second bookable offence. However the setback failed to shake the leaders, who virtually sealed the points when American Michael Bradley scored with a precise first-time shot in the 82nd minute. Udinese were unlucky to see one goalbound shot cleared off the line in the first half and coach Francesco Guidolin said: "Roma are a great side, they showed that when they were reduced to 10 men, but in the first half they rode their luck a little." Garcia said if there was good fortune, Roma had created it themselves. "You make your own luck," Garcia told Sky Sport Italia. "Especially when you give everything, week in week out." Defending champions Juventus had set a record of nine successive wins at the start of the 2005-2006 campaign, although that feat no longer stands after the Turin giants were stripped of that season's crown, as well as the previous year's, due to their role in the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal. Title challengers Napoli had piled the pressure on Garcia's side before what was always going to be a tough away trip to Udinese by dominating Torino 2-0 at the San Paolo. And for much of what was a balanced encounter, Roma finally looked as if they would fail to take all three points for the first time in the league this season. Both sides saw several chances go amiss but Udinese were denied a near certain opener on 38 minutes when Leandro Castan peformed heroics, his overhead kick on the goalline keeping out Gabriel Silva's goalbound effort. Eight minutes after the restart Maicon's drive from 15 metres sailed just over the Udinese crossbar, but 13 minutes later he marched off after an unnecessary foul on Emmanuel Badu in midfield. Roma, to their credit, kept their calm and Dutch midfielder Kevin Strootman held up play at the edge of the area before squaring for Bradley to beat Kevala with a coolly-taken first-timer. Roma now lead Napoli by five points with Juventus remaining in third, also five points adrift, after a 2-0 home win over Genoa. Arturo Vidal, who had hit the crossbar with an angled drive early in the first half, opened the scoring with a 23rd minute penalty, although Juve midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah appeared to have been fouled outside the box. Asamoah was pivotal in Juve's second, his dribbling on the left mesmerising the Genoa defence before Tevez collected his pass, feinted past one defender and beat Mattia Perrin in the visitors' net. This video is not available.Juve coach Antonio Conte was pleased with his side's performance, especially the emerging pairing of Tevez and Spain international Fernando Llorente: "I liked what I saw from Tevez and Llorente, they are beginning to play well together." Days after an impressive performance which earned a 1-1 draw at home to Champions League group opponents Barcelona, AC Milan dropped precious points in a 3-2 defeat at Parma. Parma stunned Massimiliano Allegri's side when Marco Parolo grabbed his second in the fourth minute of injury time to send his side up to seventh in the table. In Sunday's late match Miroslav Klose scored with a header shortly after the restart and Antonio Candreva added a second from the spot for Lazio two minutes later to seal a 2-0 win at home to Cagliari. It ended a sorry run of results for Vladimir Petkovic's side, whose fourth win moved then up to seventh albeit 13 points adrift of city rivals Roma.

Roma set record, Parma stun Milan. League leaders Roma beat Udinese 1-0 away on Sunday to set a new all-time record of nine consecutive wins at the start of a Serie A season and restore their five-point cushion. Roma, who have conceded just one goal in their nine wins under French coach Rudi Garcia, were reduced to 10 men in the second half after Brazilian Maicon saw red for a second bookable offence. However the setback failed to shake the leaders, who virtually sealed the points when American Michael Bradley scored with a precise first-time shot in the 82nd minute. Udinese were unlucky to see one goalbound shot cleared off the line in the first half and coach Francesco Guidolin said: "Roma are a great side, they showed that when they were reduced to 10 men, but in the first half they rode their luck a little." Garcia said if there was good fortune, Roma had created it themselves. "You make your own luck," Garcia told Sky Sport Italia. "Especially when you give everything, week in week out." Defending champions Juventus had set a record of nine successive wins at the start of the 2005-2006 campaign, although that feat no longer stands after the Turin giants were stripped of that season's crown, as well as the previous year's, due to their role in the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal. Title challengers Napoli had piled the pressure on Garcia's side before what was always going to be a tough away trip to Udinese by dominating Torino 2-0 at the San Paolo. And for much of what was a balanced encounter, Roma finally looked as if they would fail to take all three points for the first time in the league this season. Both sides saw several chances go amiss but Udinese were denied a near certain opener on 38 minutes when Leandro Castan peformed heroics, his overhead kick on the goalline keeping out Gabriel Silva's goalbound effort. Eight minutes after the restart Maicon's drive from 15 metres sailed just over the Udinese crossbar, but 13 minutes later he marched off after an unnecessary foul on Emmanuel Badu in midfield. Roma, to their credit, kept their calm and Dutch midfielder Kevin Strootman held up play at the edge of the area before squaring for Bradley to beat Kevala with a coolly-taken first-timer. Roma now lead Napoli by five points with Juventus remaining in third, also five points adrift, after a 2-0 home win over Genoa. Arturo Vidal, who had hit the crossbar with an angled drive early in the first half, opened the scoring with a 23rd minute penalty, although Juve midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah appeared to have been fouled outside the box. Asamoah was pivotal in Juve's second, his dribbling on the left mesmerising the Genoa defence before Tevez collected his pass, feinted past one defender and beat Mattia Perrin in the visitors' net. This video is not available.Juve coach Antonio Conte was pleased with his side's performance, especially the emerging pairing of Tevez and Spain international Fernando Llorente: "I liked what I saw from Tevez and Llorente, they are beginning to play well together." Days after an impressive performance which earned a 1-1 draw at home to Champions League group opponents Barcelona, AC Milan dropped precious points in a 3-2 defeat at Parma. Parma stunned Massimiliano Allegri's side when Marco Parolo grabbed his second in the fourth minute of injury time to send his side up to seventh in the table. In Sunday's late match Miroslav Klose scored with a header shortly after the restart and Antonio Candreva added a second from the spot for Lazio two minutes later to seal a 2-0 win at home to Cagliari. It ended a sorry run of results for Vladimir Petkovic's side, whose fourth win moved then up to seventh albeit 13 points adrift of city rivals Roma.

Falcao fires Monaco to the top. Ligue 1's top scorer Rademel Falcao found the target for the first time in four matches on Sunday as he helped Monaco move one point clear of Paris Saint-Germain with a 2-1 win over Lyon. Paris Saint-Germain are the only other unbeaten side in France and could reclaim the top spot later on Sunday when they travel to a Saint-Etienne outfit, they failed to beat last season. Colombian hitman Falcao took his season's tally to eight goals in 11 matches and surprisingly came in for criticism in recent weeks after a brief drought of three fixtures without scoring. The former Atletico Madrid striker chipped Lyon 'keeper Anthony Lopes in the 36th minute following Mounir Obbadi's 28th minute opener as Claudio Ranieri's men extended their unbeaten run to seven wins and four draws in 11 outings. French striker Bafetimbi Gomis gave the visitors hope with 28 minutes left when he powered home a close-range header but it wasn't enough as Lyon suffered their fifth defeat. Lyon are in domestic free-fall as the seven-time champions endure one of the worst starts to their season in over a decade and have just three wins all season under embattled coach Remi Garde. "We had a pretty easy first half but made life difficult for ourselves by conceding a goal," explained Monaco's Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho. "It was important for Falcao to score and when he scores Monaco usually win and we have to win all our matches if we want to stay at the top," he added. Lille slip to third, one point behind PSG and two behind Monaco following their disciplined 1-0 win at Nantes on Friday. Earlier on Sunday, Bordeaux rode two late goals from Mali international Cheikh Diabate and Polish winger Ludovic Obraniak to defeat Montpellier in a battle of former champions at the Chaban Delmas stadium. The victory for the 'Girodins' eases them away from the relegation zone and up to 13th while Montpellier's dismal start to the season continues as they slip to three places above the relegation zone.

PSG make it 30 games without defeat. A last-gasp goal by Blaise Matuidi salvaged a 2-2 draw for leaders Paris St Germain at 10-man St Etienne as the Ligue 1 champions took their unbeaten run to 30 games in all competitions on Sunday. It was heartbreak for the home team, who were 2-0 up after 51 minutes, as midfielder Matuidi's cross bounced past keeper Stephane Ruffier three minutes into stoppage time. St Etienne, who had Fabien Lemoine sent off for a second caution in the 59th minute, pounced on two blunders from centre half Marquinhos to take command before Edinson Cavani pulled a goal back for the visitors in the 68th minute. PSG have 25 points from 11 games and lead Monaco, who beat Olympique Lyon 2-1 earlier on Sunday with Radamel Falcao ending a three-match scoreless streak, on goal difference. Lille are two points adrift in third place after they beat Nantes 1-0 on Friday. St Etienne went in front when an awful Marquinhos clearance was intercepted by Romain Hamouma and his centre was expertly volleyed in by Benjamin Corgnet after 18 minutes. The home team doubled their lead six minutes after the break when another attempted clearance by Marquinhos bounced off the back of a teammate and fell kindly to goal-scorer Hamouma. Lemoine was dismissed for a foul on Ezequiel Lavezzi and PSG started their fightback when Cavani netted his seventh league goal of the season by tapping in a cross from Maxwell.

Atletico close in on Barcelona. David Villa ended his seven-game scoring drought with a double as Atletico Madrid closed to within a point of Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a 5-0 win over Real Betis. Eighteen-year-old sensation Oliver Torres got the hosts off the perfect start on his full league debut with the fastest goal this season after just 13 seconds. Villa then made the game safe with a quickfire brace just after halftime. La Liga's top-scorer Diego Costa took his tally to 13 goals in 13 games in all competitions when he slotted home from Villa's pass 25 minutes from time before Gabi rounded off the scoring in stoppage time. Torres had been handed a start in place of the injured Arda Turan and the Spanish Under-21 international was in the right place at the right time as he slotted home at the back post from Koke's cut-back.

Barclays-premier-league Arsenal Pld:9 W:7 Pts:22 Chelsea Pld:9 W:6 Pts:20 Liverpool Pld:9 W:6 Pts:20 Tottenham Hotspur Pld:9 W:6 Pts:19 Southampton Pld:9 W:5 Pts:18 Everton Pld:9 W:5 Pts:18 Manchester City Pld:9 W:5 Pts:16 Manchester United Pld:9 W:4 Pts:14 Swansea City Pld:9 W:3 Pts:11 Hull City Pld:9 W:3 Pts:11 Newcastle United Pld:9 W:3 Pts:11 West Bromwich Albion Pld:9 W:2 Pts:10 Aston Villa Pld:9 W:3 Pts:10 Fulham Pld:9 W:3 Pts:10 West Ham United Pld:9 W:2 Pts:9 Cardiff City Pld:9 W:2 Pts:9 Stoke City Pld:9 W:2 Pts:8 Norwich City Pld:9 W:2 Pts:8 Sunderland Pld:9 W:1 Pts:4 Crystal Palace Pld:9 W:1 Pts:3

Pellegrini declines Mourinho handshake. Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini walked straight down the players' tunnel without shaking hands with counterpart Jose Mourinho after Chelsea snatched a 90th-minute winner on Sunday. Mourinho celebrated wildly by jumping into the crowd and embracing fans after a defensive mix-up allowed Fernando Torres to secure a 2-1 victory in the Premier League. "I didn't shake hands. I didn't want to," Pellegrini told reporters at Stamford Bridge after his side suffered their third away league defeat of the season. Mourinho apologised for his loss of decorum and said he was trying to find his son when he leapt into the crowd. "If they feel I did something wrong I apologise," said the Portuguese. "This is the drama of the last minute. "He (Pellegrini) lost the game in the last minute and I have sympathy with that. In other countries and cultures we shake hands before the game and that is it. "If he was sad because of the result I understand. If he was sad because I did something wrong I accept that too." Mourinho and Pellegrini have been rivals since the Portuguese replaced the Chilean at Real Madrid in 2010 following a second-place La Liga finish. "Second place is just the first loser," Mourinho said before a match against Pellegrini's new club Malaga. "If Madrid were to fire me I wouldn't go to Malaga. I'd go to a top-level team in Italy or England." The victory moved Chelsea up to second in the table, level on points with Liverpool in third and two points behind leaders Arsenal.

Earthquake Hits Osun State, Nigeria – Ikeji Ile Villagers Narrate Ordeal Earthquake Hits Osun State Nigeria – Ikeji Ile Villagers Narrate Ordeal Olobeide, a village in Ikeji- Ile, Osun State was recently hit by an explosion that sent old and young scampering to safety. Two months after residents of the rocky community are yet to get over the scare. Taiwo Abiodun reports. The cock had just crowed at 3 o’clock on September 23, a Monday. The farmers and the traders who mainly dominate this town knew at once that they should be getting ready to set out for the day’s work. Seconds later came a massive explosion. The earth shook, the houses vibrated. No one could have missed the impact. By now everyone had woken up, asking the nearest person what was happening. There was no precise answer, only gesticulations that indicated nothing. In twos and threes, the panicked residents stepped out of their houses to ascertain what had happened. What they saw next would only confuse them and terrify them the more: water gushing from the top of the rocks and cascading down. Trees were uprooted and flung away, some over 100 meters. Food and cash crops were not spared. There was no need for further probing; the race for survival had begun. Some fled into the bush: some just kept running, to nowhere in particular. Some were practically unclad. Mothers reached for their children, all screaming and running at the same time. The explosion had blasted off the top of the rock, leaving a huge opening through which the water gushed out. The base of the rock was littered with gravel. Olobeide village has 12 mud houses and about 200 inhabitants who are chiefly farmers. It is nearly three kilometers from Ikeji- Ile. The town is surrounded by rocks which seem to be competing for space with one another. A resident, Pa Oladiti Isaiah Ajayi, said of the explosion:”It was in the early morning around 3.00 am on September 23 when we heard a deafening explosion that sounded:’graagra gbagbagba gborogodo gba, ya, ya, ya, yooo.’ It was terrible, it woke us all up! “And then we heard the sound of flood rushing down on us. We started running helter-skelter. In the morning we all went to look round but lo and behold there was a wide range of a big gulf with uprooted trees flung away.”

Torres' Late Strike Sends Chelsea to Second Spot. Fernando Torres took advantage of a disastrous last-minute defensive mix-up to give Chelsea a dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Stamford Bridge yesterday evening. The match had been heading towards a draw after Sergio Aguero cancelled out Andre Schurrle’s opener but the 90th-minute strike by the Spain striker, who had earlier hit the crossbar, means the Blues move up to second place on the English Premiership table. Gary Cahill and Torres had spurned golden opportunities in the first half before the latter laid on Andre Schurrle to score his first Chelsea goal and give Jose Mourinho’s men a deserved half-time lead. Sergio Aguero’s thunderous strike – his sixth goal in four outings and 10th of the season – left Petr Cech grasping at thin air three minutes after the restart and the equaliser prompted a sustained spell of City pressure. Manuel Pellegrini's team appeared the most likely winners heading into the closing stages, but as they pressed, Chelsea substitute Willian launched a hopeful ball forward that caused a horrific moment for City defender Matija Nastasic and goalkeeper Joe Hart. Nastasic headed back towards his own goal, only to see the on-rushing Hart miss the ball to leave Torres with a simple finish for the winner. Ashley Cole returned to displace Cesar Azpilicueta in Jose Mourinho's only change to the Chelsea XI that beat Schalke 3-0 in the Champions League in midweek. Vincent Kompany’s continued injury absence with a thigh complaint meant that City boss Manuel Pellegrini handed Martin Demichelis a debut at centre-back and pushed Javi Garcia forward into a holding role to match Chelsea's three-man central midfield.

Manchester United's Robin van Persie in tunnel row with Ryan Shawcross. Bad blood between Manchester United's Robin van Persie and Ryan Shawcross led to a tunnel incident at half-time of Saturday's match at Old Traffordwhich brought the Stoke defender a yellow card. "Yes, he pushed him I think," the Stoke manager, Mark Hughes, said of his player's behaviour. "I've no idea, because I didn't see the incident but the referee wanted to book Ryan. I've never known anyone get booked in the dressing room before." Battle continued after the game. Van Persie reportedly muttered something in Shawcross's direction in the tunnel when his opponent was being interviewed, prompting a shouted response. Van Persie scored United's first goal in their dramatic 3-2 win.

Villas-Boas hits out at negative Spurs fans. Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has told fans to get behind his team and stop creating a negative atmosphere at White Hart Lane. Spurs made hard work of a 1-0 win over Hull City in the Premier League on Sunday with Roberto Soldado's 80th-minute penalty all that separated the sides. Spaniard Soldado's third goal from the spot and sixth of the season moved Spurs into fourth in the table, but that didn't stop Villas-Boas from criticising home fans. "We played in a very difficult atmosphere, very tense, very negative and we looked like the away team but we kept our cool," said Villas-Boas. "We had to dig deep within ourselves because we weren't getting help from anybody, the stadium reflected this atmosphere, very tense and without a lot of support until the first goal. "I'm particularly happy with the way the players fought hard against that anxiety and kept their cool to take the three points. "I'm extremely happy with the crowd normally, fans for me represent the essence of football. The away support has been immense," Villas-Boas stressed. "Sometimes at home it is difficult and it looks like it drags the ball in to our goal rather than our opponents goal." Villas-Boas stressed: "I don't intend with this message to send them a warning, neither do I intend to hurt their feelings but this is something that is felt within the group. "You need that help. We are great believers in emotion and motivation and that is always decisive when you play at home." Hull manager Steve Bruce was even more frustrated, but it seemed the former Manchester United skipper only had referee Michael Oliver to blame for denying his side what would have been a deserved point. Replays showed Jan Vertonghen's cross came off the foot of Ahmed Elmohamady before striking the midfielder in the arm, yet Oliver still awarded the decisive penalty which Soldado duly converted. "It is an absolute joke decision," said Bruce. "It hits his leg for a start and then goes up and hits his arm, how do you give a penalty in that situation? "We have more directives and meetings and all this nonsense, they (referees) are all getting assessed up in the stands but then they give decisions like that which just baffles me and I have to ask the question, would we have got it (the penalty)? "He (Oliver) is going to go and see it and know it is a soft one and in my opinion it is not right, not for the stakes we are playing for. "It is the same old thing. He's ballsed it up," added the Hull boss. There was a worrying moment late in the game when Tottenham and England winger Andros Townsend plunged over an advertising hoarding and into the photographers' pit. The 22-year-old returned with strapping on his wrist but Villas-Boas said he did not expect Townsend to have suffered a severe injury.

Hull left fuming after disputed Roberto Soldado penalty seals Spurs win The ball did hit Ahmed Elmohamady's hand. At least, the referee Michael Oliver could cling to that. And yet it was impossible to escape the feeling that the Hull City midfielder and his team had been wronged. A ripple of surprise went around White Hart Lane when Oliver pointed to the penalty spot and Roberto Soldado's conversion represented the roughest justice for the visitors. Having fought for so long, they departed with nothing. Tottenham had laboured yet everything changed in the closing stages when Jan Vertonghen whipped over his cross from the left. The ball hit Elmohamady's leg and reared up to strike his hand. It was travelling at pace. He was no more than five yards away and he had also seemed to turn his back. In other words, there was surely no intention. Steve Bruce, the Hull manager, fumed. Soldado showed no sympathy. Just as he had done at the beginning of the season against Crystal Palace and Swansea City, he scored the minimum of fuss to give his team the 1-0 win. Tottenham were not awarded a single penalty last season. Their luck has turned. "One-nil to the referee," the Hull fans sang. Bruce's team had arrived with injury problems and the resolution to mass 10 men behind the ball to make life difficult for Tottenham. He demanded blood, sweat and tears and he got his wish. Yet there was more to the visitors than committed defending and intensity, at least in the first-half. They had a willing runner in Yannick Sagbo at the tip of their formation and, behind him off the left, George Boyd was direct and dangerous. Sagbo demonstrated his pace and power when he outstripped Sandro to force Hugo Lloris into a sprawling save and it was not the only time that Hull quickened the pulses before the interval. They shouted loudly for a penalty when Kyle Walker bundled into Paul McShane while shots were blocked and Tom Huddlestone caught a 32nd minute drive sweetly but the ball flew high. A rare Huddlestone goal would not only have marked a sweet return to his former club, it would have allowed him finally to get a haircut. He has a bet for charity to avoid the clippers until he scores. Tottenham had chances in the first half but they laboured for rhythm, which is not entirely unusual at White Hart Lane, where they can take time to come to the boil. Passes went astray and André Villas-Boas simmered. The crowd chuntered. Paulinho guided a volley over the crossbar from Lewis Holtby's free-kick; Andros Townsend, who looked lively, drew a save from Steve Harper from 20 yards; Soldado almost got a touch to Paulinho's cross and Walker's blast stung the goalkeeper's palms. Tottenham have had to show patience at this stadium and Villas-Boas did his usual rejigging in the search for the breakthrough. Having started Aaron Lennon on the left, he switched him with Townsend at the beginning of the second-half while Mousa Dembélé replaced the more defensively-minded Sandro. Erik Lamela's thoughts would have been interesting. Townsend and Lennon currently stand ahead of him in the pecking order. The £30m club record signing, an unused substitute here, has yet to start a Premier League game. Villas-Boas sent on Christian Eriksen for the below-par Holtby and he went to two strikers with the introduction of Jermain Defoe. Hull broke less frequently in the second-half but their focus, which was epitomised by David Meyler in midfield, was unrelenting. Some of their players went down and stayed down, which irked the Tottenham support. When Walker attempted to take a quick throw-in as Curtis Davies lay prone, Bruce confronted the Tottenham defender on the touchline. The fourth official stepped in. Tottenham looked to have run out of ideas. Before the penalty, they had threatened in the second-half only when Townsend released Soldado and his shot was pushed away by Harper. But one blast from Oliver's whistle changed everything. There was drama afterwards when Townsend fell head-first over the advertising hoardings to require lengthy treatment and Huddlestone fizzed a free-kick narrowly wide at the very last. But there could be no escaping the talking point.

Chelsea's Fernando Torres exploits late error to sink Manchester City It was about six seconds from the 90 minute-mark here, the fourth official preparing to hoist his board for added time, when Fernando Torres confirmed his revival by burying Manchester City's prospects in south-west London. A pinball in central midfield ended with Willian punting down-field over a back-tracking Matija Nastasic, the centre-half panicking and nodding back and over an on-rushing Joe Hart. There was Torres, sprinting beyond the visitors' confused last line of defence and away from Martín Demichelis, to convert into the gaping net. A man who has endured plenty of wretched luck in front of goal had his good fortune at last. This was a first Premier League goal of the season, and only a second of the calendar year, with its timing deflating their fellow challengers for the title at the last – sending out a thunderous message to the division. José Mourinho's celebrations suggested as much, the Portuguese charging manically past the away team's dugout and climbing steps to celebrate with supporters. This was the second week in succession he has ended up in the crowd following last weekend's dismissal to the standsbut this was less about him. Torres has rarely departed this arena with the crowd bellowing his name so vociferously. This was his contest, even if Sergio Agüero's own brilliance for the visitors had threatened to eclipse him until that late intervention. The striker maintained that fine form from Schalke in midweek. Indeed, the hosts' half-time lead had owed everything to Torres's revival. Chelsea had started brightly then faded as City, all power through the centre and trickery on the flanks, seemed to take a grip of the contest, driving the Londoners back into massed defence. For a while the visitors had swarmed all over the home side, David Silva and Agüero scuttling into dangerous territory, but their energy did not yield clear sights at goal and Chelsea, as they had proved in Gelsenkirchen in midweek, are happiest springing on the break. In that tactic, Torres's contribution was key. The Spaniard should have registered his second Premier League goal of the calendar year on the half-hour mark, Ramires' burst and angled centre collected by the striker alone near the penalty spot with time to consider his shot. The result was rather panicked, a ballooned effort high and wide that had Mourinho puffing his cheeks in disbelief on the bench. Yet, moments later, it was the 29-year-old's burst away from Gael Clichy, the full-back left gasping in his vapour trail, to the by-line and skimmed cross that presented André Schürrle, ignored by Martín Demichelis on his debut, with a tap-in for a first Chelsea goal. That was Torres's 13th league assist for the club, a fine tally and evidence that his all-round game, if not always his shooting, is on song. Within minutes he had gathered on the opposite side of the pitch and cut into the box before curling a delicious shot on to the far angle of bar and post. His manager's reaction was more pleading this time, a pained expression across his face as he slumped over the wall at the front of the dugout struggling to come to terms that his striker's luck was still out. That period had suggested City were creaking, the memories of defeats at Aston Villaand Cardiffthis term perhaps playing on their minds as they played catch-up against a fellow contender. Yet their response was a show of strength. Theirs was an urgency from the restart, stampeding forward and wresting back both control and parity. Samir Nasri's slipped pass sent Agüero into space at Gary Cahill's back, albeit at a tight angle from goal. The blistering finish, thumped high beyond Petr Cech at his near post, fuelled the visitors' conviction. City have never lost a Premier League game when their Argentine has registered and they should have tightened their grip here thereafter. Silva was guilty of being overelaborate, Garcia of a tame header down from the Spaniard's free-kick, with Agüero looping another shot from distance marginally wide. Chelsea, having reorganised and taken stock, threatened on the break when Hazard tumbling in the area under Pablo Zabaleta's challenge and Ramires, a blur of energy throughout, thrashing over from distance. When Willian's vicious free-kick veered just away from Branislav Ivanovic, City must have thought their point was preserved. Then came Nastasic's rush of blood and Torres' moment of glory: this time, the Spaniard really does feel back to his best. Man of the matchFernando Torres (Chelsea).

Fernando Torres scored a stoppage time goal to see Chelsea defeat Manchester City 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening. Sergio Aguero cancelled out Andre Schurrle’s first-half strike to level the game but the Spaniard couldn’t be stopped in the dying minutes of the game. There was a good ebb and flow between both teams in the opening stages of the game and Fernando Torres came close with a header in the seventh minute which looped into Joe Hart’s hands. Manuel Pellegrini’s men were the ones dominating play on the set-pieces, winning corner after corner. In the 23rd minute Ramires won the ball in the middle of the field to feed Torres, but his pass had far too much on it and went out for a City throw. Just before the half hour mark Frank Lampard supplied a free-kick into the box which Gael Clichy dealt with, but a pass played back in by Ramires caught Torres offside. But Chelsea grabbed the lead just minutes later with some great work by Torres down the right. He hit the byline and sent in a low cross to Andre Schurrle, who simply needed to tap it into the City net. Chelsea bombed forward for a second goal but Torres’s effort smashed onto the City crossbar after cutting in on the left. At the restart, City came back with an immediate response to find the equalizer through Sergio Aguero. Nasri slipped a pass through to Aguero and he took Petr Cech by surprise with a first-time strike which flew high into the net at the near post. And even as the game approached its final ten minutes, the result was very much in the balance and anyone’s for the taking. It proved to be the case as Torres topped off his impressive display with a stoppage time goal to hand Chelsea a late 2-1 victory. Hart came out to meet a high ball on the edge of the area but Matija Nastasic attempted a header back towards his own goal, which Torres gladly took by running and tucking it into the empty net from a tight angle.

Sunderland 2 Newcastle United 1 - Late strike by Fabio Borini secures Tyne-Wear derby victory Fabio Borini wrote himself into Wearside folklore as he came off the bench to fire Sunderland to derby victory over Newcastle and lift them from the foot of the Premier League table. The 22-year-old Italian, signed on loan from Liverpool, struck with an 85th-minute piledriver to secure just a second home league win for the Black Cats over their neighbours since 1980 and a first in the league this season. His intervention came as the Magpies looked for a winner of their own after Mathieu Debuchy had dragged them back into the game with a 57th-minute equaliser, his first goal for the club. Steven Fletcher had headed the home side in front with just five minutes gone as Gus Poyet's men made light of their recent difficulties in his first home game at the helm in front of a crowd of 46,313. But their commendable efforts to deny Newcastle time and space dwindled as they rather ran out of steam and with Cheick Tiote and Yohan Cabaye finally starting to get to grips with the central midfield battle, it was the visitors who looked the more likely winners as time ran down. However, Borini thought otherwise and his timely intervention handed Poyet a derby victory in his second game in charge to match predecessor Paolo Di Canio's achievement. It was a match Sunderland simply could not afford to lose for a variety of reasons and they went about their task with some relish. The absence of a recognised centre-half pairing for the Magpies - neither Fabricio Coloccini or Steven Taylor was able to plug the gap left by the suspended Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, placing the onus on specialist left-back Paul Dummett - gave the Black Cats an opportunity, and it was one they were to exploit within minutes. Poyet opted to pair Fletcher with summer signing Jozy Altidore and the pair caused Dummett and partner Mike Williamson all kinds of problems in a high-octane start by the home side. They needed just five minutes to force their way in front, and the goal came straight from the training ground. Adam Johnson played a corner short to Sebastian Larsson and then delivered the return pass to the far post for Fletcher to climb high above Dummett and head home. It was the perfect start to Poyet's first game at the Stadium of Light and for 20 heady minutes or more, Sunderland dominated proceedings with Lee Cattermole leading the fight from central midfield and his team-mates following suit. Johnson repeatedly made ground down the left and delivered a series of telling crosses, Fletcher glancing a 14th-minute header wide from one of them three minutes before forcing Tim Krul into a save with a well-struck effort from distance. Magpies boss Alan Pardew, who had started as he did against Liverpool last week with Hatem Ben Arfa at the pinnacle of 4-2-3-1 formation, was forced to abandon Plan A with his team simply not competing, and with Loic Remy moved into an advanced position and the former Marseille man dropping deeper, Newcastle were far more effective. However, all their better attempts came from distance with Cabaye prompting Keiren Westwood to make his only real first-half save with a dipping 16th-minute free kick, but both he and Ben Arfa were significantly more wayward thereafter. Perhaps the Magpies' most promising attack of the opening 45 minutes came eight minutes before the break when left-back Davide Santon picked out right-back Debuchy with an elegant pass and Larsson had to head his dangerous cross away with black and white shirts arriving in numbers. Pardew opted for further change at the break, sending on striker Papiss Cisse for midfielder Moussa Sissoko, but the Magpies were able to create little during the opening exchanges of the second half despite enjoying a wealth of possession. But they were back in it 12 minutes after the restart when Ben Arfa, who had been infuriatingly ineffective until that point, accepted Cabaye's pass and drove a low cross across the face of goal for Debuchy to convert at the far post. Cabaye fired just wide after good work by Santon and Ben Arfa with 63 minutes gone with the visitors starting to turn the screw. However, Borini almost made his name on Wearside within seconds of his arrival as a 69th-minute replacement for Johnson, blasting a shot through Krul, only to see the Dutchman gratefully grab the ball at the second attempt. Davide Santon drilled a skidding effort just wide with 14 minutes remaining and derby specialist Shola Ameobi, on as a 70th-minute replacement for Remy, went just as close two minutes later. But the decisive moment came at the other end five minutes from time when Borini ran on to Altidore's lay-off and smashed an unstoppable shot past Krul to win it.

Manchester United apologises over 'swastika' logo Manchester United has apologised after a 'swastika-style' logo was sent out to fans in a newsletter alongside the Nazi affiliated title "New Order". The similarities between the logo, which spelt out the letters MUFC, and the Nazi symbol were pointed out after United Uncovered was issued via email. Manchester United said any offence caused was "entirely unintended". It said the title related to the band New Order, and that the feature was about the club's young players. The statement, which was emailed to fans, said: "In this week's United Uncovered email newsletter, a graphic spelling the letters MUFC ran alongside a feature about Manchester United's younger squad members entitled New Order. "While the headline was intended to reference the band of the same name, it has been pointed out that the graphic had design similarities to a swastika which, combined with other connotations of the phrase 'new order', has caused offence which was entirely unintended. "For this, United Uncovered unreservedly apologises." The club's head of media David Sternberg responded to a number of complaints over Twitter. He tweeted: "The creative is completely inappropriate; we apologise unreservedly and are taking appropriate internal action."

Napoli's Higuain scores controversial brace from spot Gonzalo Higuain scored twice from the spot after seemingly generous penalty decisions to hand Napoli a 2-0 win over Torino and close the gap to Serie A leaders Roma to two points on Sunday. Roma travel to Udinese in one of six afternoon fixtures looking to secure an all-time league record of nine consecutive opening wins, a feat that would restore their five-point lead over Rafael Benitez's men. Napoli, meanwhile, provided further proof they are likely to be among the biggest challengers to champions Juventus this season. But, fresh from a precious 2-1 Champions League win away to Marseille on Tuesday, the hosts benefited from two generous penalty decisions. Torino finished the match with 10 men after second-half substitute Migjen Basha saw red in the closing minutes after hauling down Goran Pandev, but by then the damage had been done. Higuain opened the scoring in the 14th minute when he smashed his spot kick past Daniele Padelli after Dries Mertens tumbled all too easily when his trailing leg made slight contact with Nicola Bellomo in the area. Five minutes later the Argentinian tested Padelli again when he picked up Blerim Dzemaili's pass to send a low drive from 20 metres just wide of the post. Higuain's snap shot from 10 metres was then expertly stopped by Padelli, but the keeper soon found himself facing Higuain from 11 metres out again just after the half hour. Federico Fernandez smashed his shot off the arm of defender Kamil Glik and at first Torino appeared to have been given the benefit of the doubt, only for the referee to point to the spot following consultation with his assistant. Higuain made no mistake, smashing his second attempt low past Padelli to hand the hosts a 2-0 lead and take his tally for the season to five goals. Napoli spurned the chance for a 3-0 half-time lead when Lorenzo Insigne's chip was headed to safety by Danilo D'Ambrosio after Padelli had panicked and come rushing out of his goal. Pepe Reina had had little to do in the Napoli goal but palmed an Alessio Cerci free kick over the bar before the interval. A visibly angry Giampiero Ventura made a double substitution for the visitors with Basha replacing Alessandro Gazzi and Cerci making way for Riccardo Meggiorini at the restart. Napoli, however, only grew in confidence and Reina coped easily with shots from Basha and Paulo Vitor Barreto. In the closing period Meggiorini forced a superb diving save from Reina with an angled drive although on the counter-attack Napoli were denied a third goal when Jose Callejon's low effort was palmed away by Padelli.

Crystal Palace 0 Arsenal 2: Arsene Wenger says the next run of games will be a difficult test, but his side are confident Arsene Wenger wants his Arsenal side to focus on strengthening their own belief in the quest for a sustained assault on the Premier League title. The Gunners consolidated their position at the top of the table by securing a 2-0 win at managerless Crystal Palace, where captain Mikel Arteta was sent off not long after scoring a penalty at the start of the second half. It was the ideal response from Wenger's men to the midweek Champions League home defeat to Borussia Dortmund, which had seen questions raised about how far Arsenal could go this season. "It is people who do not believe that we have a chance, but the only thing we can do is win our games," Wenger said. "The only thing which is important is every win makes you a bit stronger and strengthens the belief. "We have difficult games coming up, and that will be a good test, but I am confident." Arsenal had started brightly at Selhurst Park, where England midfielder Jack Wilshere was put on the bench as a precaution after aggravating his troublesome ankle on Tuesday night. However, the Gunners were made to work for their victory, and there were long spells where Palace pressed the league leaders onto the back foot. Arsenal's breakthrough came at the start of the second half when Serge Gnabry - on as an early substitute for Mathieu Flamini, who limped off with a groin problem - was taken out by a rash challenge from Adlene Guedioura to concede a needless penalty, which Arteta coolly dispatched. However, just after the hour mark, the Spaniard was off back down the tunnel when referee Chris Foy brandished a red card after he had clashed with former Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh some 35 yards out, the pair falling in a heap following what looked like a 50/50 challenge. Following consultation with his assistant, Foy viewed it as denying a clear goalscoring opportunity and the midfielder must now serve a one-match ban, the midweek Capital One Cup tie against Chelsea he was unlikely to be involved in anyway. Nevertheless, Wenger still disagreed with the decision. He said: "It has to be the last man and that is not proven to me - also the foul was not obvious." Arteta also felt he had been hard done by, telling Arsenal Player: "It was a very harsh decision to send me off. Chamakh kicks my fight foot. I have seen it on television. It is 40 yards away from goal too. "It is true that I tried to block him with my hand but then he came with his left foot into my right calf and then we were both on the floor. It was never a tackle from me." Palace briefly rallied as they looked for a positive end to a week which started with a 4-1 home defeat by Fulham that resulted in the departure of Ian Holloway. Defender Joel Ward saw his shot from 20 yards tipped onto the bar by Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, who quickly produced an even better save to deny Mile Jedinak from the resulting corner. It was, though, the Gunners who went onto to secure all three points with a second goal on 87 minutes when Aaron Ramsey broke down the left, his perfectly timed cross headed past Julian Speroni by the hard-working Olivier Giroud. Wenger said: "Crystal Palace put a shift in, they were determined to fight very hard, we needed to be patient and we were. "Many times now this season away from home we have won the game in the second half because we are mature, do not make a mistake and we do not rush our game." The full extent of Flamini's injury is yet to be assessed, but there have been suggestions it could sideline the industrious French midfielder - who had missed the Dortmund game as a precaution following concussion - for up to a month. For Palace, top of the agenda for Monday's debrief will be the search for a new manager. Caretaker boss Keith Millen, who made six changes to Holloway's final starting XI, feels the Eagles remain an attractive proposition despite the fact they have lost eight of their opening nine games back in the top flight. "It is a great club in a good financial position with four great owners who really want to achieve something at this club," he said. "But also when you look at the group of players against Arsenal, people that are interested in the job would look at that and think 'I've got something to work with there'." "However, the players know if they keep going like that they will get points. "Whether they can get enough points you don't know, do you? But you have to just work from week to week and enjoy what you are doing."

Arsene Wenger satisfied with victory at Crystal Palace. Arsene Wenger was satisfied with victory at Crystal Palace. Mikel Arteta and Olivier Giroud struck for the 2-0 win. It is said that the Frenchman was pleased with the way his team closed out the match for a crucial victory following on from the disappointment of a midweek defeat at home in the Champions League to Borussia Dortmund. “It was not a game of brilliance, but it was a game of efficiency and patience,” he said. “The pitch was a bit slow, maybe we were not the sharpest as well and the two together made us create less chances than we are used to, but we were serious and determined.” Wenger, though, is refusing to read too much into his side’s solid start to the season. “We are ambitious and want to do as well as we can. you can see that these players are focused,” he said. “Even when the legs go a little bit, they keep their legs and that is always a sign of ambition in the team. “We want to win with style but unfortunately it is not always possible.”

Manchester United vs Stoke City Line-ups: Manchester United (4-2-3-1)De Gea; Smalling (Valencia, 76), Jones, Evans, Evra; Carrick, Cleverley (Hernandez, 68); Nani (Januzaj, 58), Rooney, Kagawa; Van Persie. Stoke (4-2-3-1):Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Huth, Pieters; Nzonzi, Palacios (Whelan, 70); Walters, Ireland, (Adam, 82) Arnautovic (Wilson, 49); Crouch. Referee:Lee Mason. Man of the match:Arnautovic (Stoke) Match rating:8/10

Man Utd 3 Stoke City 2 match report: Javier Hernandez eases mood of discontent When Manchester United had conjured a third goal to engineer an old school Old Trafford comeback, there were overtures of the touchline ecstasy shared by Sir Alex Ferguson and Brian Kidd when United clinched the title here 20 years ago, as the celebrations shared by David Moyes and his coach Phil Neville reached 10 yards onto the pitch. That’s just how close United had been to a crisis of firestorm proportions. In that moment of delirium, the scoreline on the stadium feed of the match briefly stated it was 3-2 to Stoke City, which just about sums up how it feels around this place at the moment, with everyone waiting for evidence that a corner has been turned and no-one believing that it has. United can reflect on the two headed goals in as many minutes, from Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez, which turned the game from the losing position they took into the last quarter of an hour. But the tactics at that stage – throwing on every available striker and throwing every available ball into the box – were as desperate as the performance had been, for the large part. You can take your pick as to which of half a dozen United players took the worst hiding from a particularly desperate first half. Chris Smalling looked most out of his depth in a defence which looked vulnerable every time Stoke employed the strategy to which United are transparently vulnerable, counter-attack rapidly and with numbers. There was a sense of the centre simply not holding, in those desperate first 45 minutes. The supporters’ groans of despair with a deeply frustrating Nani descended to boos when he casually fired a 25-yard shot into the advertising hoardings. The mutinous mood was infectious as the overwhelmed defenders – Jonny Evans and Phil Jones – looked daggers at the overwhelmed midfield. You wondered, then, why Marouane Fellaini was on the bench and not billeted to halt these tides of pressure, though Moyes could be forgiven that this was the kind of opposition that the Belgian could sit out. It took a mere three minutes for Stoke – invigorated by the vision and rapid movement of Marko Arnautovic and Stephen Ireland – to set the course of the calamity, when David de Gea’s fine instinctive save from Peter Crouch, who had manoeuvred himself to capitalise on full back Erik Peters’ very fine run and cross, took the ball to the feet of Evans, who conspired to canon the ball into the net off Crouch. And though United did conjure an equaliser at the other end of the first period – Nani levering a ball from the right after 43 minutes which Rooney headed at Asmir Begovic before Robin van Persie gobbled up the rebound – the scoreline might have read 3-0 or 4-0 at the interval. Arnautovic was beating Smalling at will, easing past him to begin a move which continued with Steven Nzonzi – the strong midfield presence that United lacked – deceiving Evans with a the flight of a lofted pass and ended with Jon Walters bringing an imperious, instinctive save from De Gea. The best of the Spanish goalkeeper was also required to prevent Arnautovic scoring when he got in front of Smalling to shoot again, minutes later. There was a justice about the Austrian sending Stoke back ahead two minutes after the equaliser. His right-footed free kick, which he won by drawing Jones’s foul, arced over Van Persie’s head in the wall which deceived De Gea with its flight. Arnautovic’s enforced departure four minutes after the interval – he had been unwell before the game – reduced Stoke’s momentum as much as the arrival of Adnan Janujaz, eight minutes later, created some for United at last. Their deep dependency on an 18-year-old is a concern. Within six minutes he had drawn fouls which had both Ireland and Wilson Palacios booked. Rooney, orchestrating back in midfield, sought him out whenever he could. The visitors drifted precariously deeper, hostage to the fortune which befell them and unable to maintain the energy levels to continue breaking out. Hernandez was booked for rashly closing down Robert Huth with his feet raised – which the Stoke manager Mark Hughes, and Huth, felt should have earned him a dismissal. “It’s difficult to go against a 70,000 crowd. Sometimes [an official] has to be strong as well,” Hughes said. Instead, it was United who were strong, finding the goals and holding on for dear life despite throwing away possession like confetti in the desperate closing minutes. The afternoon had been “very good, exciting and I really enjoyed it,” Moyes said. He was fooling no-one. Line-ups: Manchester United (4-2-3-1)De Gea; Smalling (Valencia, 76), Jones, Evans, Evra; Carrick, Cleverley (Hernandez, 68); Nani (Januzaj, 58), Rooney, Kagawa; Van Persie. Stoke (4-2-3-1):Begovic; Cameron, Shawcross, Huth, Pieters; Nzonzi, Palacios (Whelan, 70); Walters, Ireland, (Adam, 82) Arnautovic (Wilson, 49); Crouch. Referee:Lee Mason. Man of the match:Arnautovic (Stoke) Match rating:8/10

David Moyes sees hope in comeback win against Stoke that helps Manchester United survive the boos Manchester United manager David Moyes declared last night that an extraordinary late victory reminiscent of the Sir Alex Ferguson era could finally launch the club into a new era of success, despite a performance against Stoke City which at times was desperate. Moyes said his side were now capable of going "quietly" on their way to a place among the elite as he pointed out that this was now five games undefeated – "though that's not big news for you boys" he told reporters. Yet a wretched first half left United, whose defence was pitiful, 2-1 down at the interval – a scoreline which held as the game headed towards the last 10 minutes, before Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez's headers inside two minutes made the result safe. Without several superb saves from David de Gea, United could have trailed 4-0 at the break. "We did a lot of good things and a lot of really poor things which put us in the situation we were in," Moyes admitted. "Some of the things we did were good but were not leading to any goals. I told them [at half-time] we were capable of doing it. He added: "We needed all the substitutes today to help us and they made a difference. We needed our goalkeeper." United's first-half display, with Nani particular ineffective at times, led to boos from the Old Trafford crowd in the first half. "Obviously they were disappointed," said Moyes. "They wanted to see their team win. There have been a lot of games like this in the past." Results elsewhere rendered the comeback even more vital. All the clubs above United in the table who played yesterday – Arsenal, Liverpool, Everton and Southampton – won their games. United remain eight points adrift of Arsène Wenger's table-topping side, who beat Crystal Palace, but defeat would have left them three points off the relegation zone and in a state of deep crisis. The Stoke manager Mark Hughes said Moyes' team had been lucky and that his own players had left United "shook up". He was bitterly unhappy that the substitute Hernandez had been on the pitch to score the 80th- minute winner, and not sent off for a marginally high challenge when he charged down the visitors' defender Robert Huth. "He [Hernandez] should not have been on the pitch anyway. It was a poor challenge on Huth; reckless. Why the assistant didn't see fit to do something about it I don't know."

Crystal Palace 0 Arsenal 2 match report: Gunners made to work by rejuvenated Eagles. What a difference a change of manager can make; which is presumably why it happens so often. On Friday night, after Tony Mowbray’s dismissal, Middlesbrough went out under coach Mark Venus and thumped Doncaster Rovers 4-0. Ian Holloway did not wait to be pushed at Crystal Palace, handing over to his assistant Keith Millen, who shook up the team with six changes and was rewarded with the spirit and tenacity that Holloway had felt was lacking. It was a performance well received by the home crowd, even if the result of their dreams against the League leaders did not materialise. At the interval, having survived and then settled, Palace still had hopes of at least a rare point, and despite Mikel Arteta scoring a penalty right at the start of the second half, there was renewed belief when the same player was harshly sent off with 25 minutes to play. Instead, Wojciech Szczesny denied them with a couple of good saves and on the break Aaron Ramsey set up Olivier Giroud for a match-clinching second goal. Earlier Arsenal seemed to feel they could stroll through as they wished, and by half-time it was a surprise how few genuine opportunities they had created. Palace initially allowed them far too much room and looked like the away team before suddenly realising that they were taking part in the same game. Mesut Özil, apparently suffering from a virus in midweek, was possibly not over it and that familiar tendency to make not one, but three passes too many manifested itself again in the apparent belief that goals would come by some sort of osmosis. Arsène Wenger felt, reasonably enough, that Arteta should not have been sent off – it was difficult to see a foul on the former Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh 45 yards from goal as “an obvious goalscoring opportunity”. “The referee got that wrong.” said Wenger, “He [Chamakh] was far from goal and it was an accidental foul. Maybe we were not at our sharpest, but we were mature and organised and Szczesny made two good saves.” As for being top of the table at this stage: “It’s a good feeling without any massive significance. We always had a high level of aspirations and the only thing we can do is win our games.” Palace’s aspirations are very different and may well still be beyond them, whoever takes over. Tony Pulis remains the favourite, even if he is likely to introduce a more rudimentary style. He would certainly find, on yesterday’s showing, the sort of attitude that he likes. Millen appreciated it, saying: “I was very proud to be in charge and even prouder of the players’ performance. The best thing is we’ve got something to build on. It’s difficult when you’ve lost as many as we have, but the reaction to going one-nil down so early in the second half was terrific.” They will need to dispense with the inferiority complex afflicting them for half an hour yesterday. But if there was initially a sense of inevitability about proceedings, Arsenal allowed themselves to be seduced by the idea. Losing Mathieu Flamini with a groin strain early on did not seem a concern, Serge Gnabry coming on down the right and Aaron Ramsey dropping deeper, at a time when Palace fans were reduced to cheering throw-ins. The home centre-half Damien Delaney got away with two possible penalties, but not until late in the half did Julian Speroni need to make a save, from Ramsey. It was to be expected that Arsenal came out more vigorously and despite being warned about that by Millen, Palace immediately conceded a clear penalty for Adlène Guedioura’s trip on Gnabry that Arteta converted. The picture changed when Chris Foy sent the Arsenal captain off for no more than a tussle with Chamakh, after which Szczesny fingertipped Joel Ward’s shot onto the bar and then saved well from Mile Jedinak’s controlled volley at the subsequent corner. Palace were still hoping against hope when Giroud fed Ramsey, lost his marker and ran on to head in the Welshman’s perfectly placed cross. Line-ups: Crystal Palace (4-4-1-1):Speroni; Ward, Delaney, Gabbidon, Moxey; Bannan (Gayle, 77), Jedinak, Dikgacoi, Thomas (Bolasie, 88); Guedioura (Kébé, 79); Chamakh. Arsenal (4-2-3-1):Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Arteta, Flamini (Wilshere, 8); Ramsey, Cazorla (Monreal, 72), Özil; Giroud. Referee:Chris Foy. Man of the match:Ramsey (Arsenal) Match rating:7/10

Ex-tennis star Martina Hingis 'beat up husband with mother' Martina Hingis: Her husband claimed she had cheated on him The husband of the former Swiss tennis champion, Martina Hingis, has accused his estranged wife and her mother of assaulting him, claiming he fled to France to escape the pair. Thibault Hutin, a French equestrian, told the Swiss newspaper Blick that Ms Hingis and her mother, Melanie Molitor, had beaten and scratched him during a dispute at an apartment the couple once shared in the Swiss village of Feusisberg. He also accused Ms Molitor’s boyfriend of hitting him in the head with a DVD player. “I have bruises and scratches on the neck, head and right forearm,” he was quoted as saying. “I’m really scared and asking myself, what comes next – a bullet?” Mr Hutin, 27, said he had to ask police to retrieve his passport and credit cards from the apartment, and had travelled from Switzerland to Paris where he felt “safe from them”. Blick reported that police in the central Swiss canton of Schwyz had received a complaint against Ms Hingis, Ms Molitor and her partner Mario Widmer. Ms Hingis would not comment, while Mr Widmer referred to the allegations as “ridiculous”, Blick reported. In July Mr Hutin claimed in Swiss media that Ms Hingis, 32, had cheated on him. The pair separated earlier this year, and are in the process of getting a divorce

Silva service shines as Manuel Pellegrini brings in sense of freedom and joy to Manchester City Tight bond: Aguero (left) and Silva have formed a sound understanding Before Manchester City's last meeting with Chelsea, in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley in April, David Silva faced the uncertainty of a late fitness test, which he failed. City went on to win 2-1 in any case with Sergio Aguero, who had also been doubtful, scoring the crucial goal. The London club would doubtless love the same pair to be in danger of missing today's game at Stamford Bridge but it seems the best news they can hope for is what they already know – the absence of centre-half and captain Vincent Kompany, of whom Chelsea's fellow Belgian Eden Hazard has said: "When he plays, they win and when he doesn't play they lose, often." City's defence has undeniably looked uncomfortable without their leader, Javi Garcia being no substitute, but in two away games over the past week the brilliance of Silva and Aguero has more than compensated. At West Ham last Saturday and then in Moscow in the Champions' League, they shone both individually and in combination, an understanding which they have built up over two full seasons of helping to achieve important victories. "Everybody knows just how important Sergio is for us, he is a key man," Silva said. "But also we need to be in form as well, the guys who play just in behind him to create chances to keep scoring. Last season he only scored 12 goals in the League and he's already halfway towards that. "I think he has a very good chance of being right up there in the goalscoring charts. If he is, then it helps the team and would show that we are scoring plenty of goals. Over the season we've been playing together and I've tried to help him score as many as possible, and I'll keep trying to create those chances for him." Silva's goal at West Ham meant he has already reached half of his more modest total of four last season too, while accepting that his role as one of the two wide midfielders deployed in City's 4-2-3-1 formation is essentially more creator than finisher. "It's always nice on a personal front when you get to score, so it felt good. But I recognise my role in the team is a little more diverse than that. I am there to help the strikers, and to create assists for the goalscorers – to help make the team tick and play, and to help the team defensively when I need to, so that's what I concentrate on." He puts some unexpectedly poor away results early on down to the transition from Roberto Mancini to Manuel Pellegrini, who has nevertheless stuck to much the same system, while bringing in Fernandinho as Yaya Touré's defensive midfield partner and the powerful Alvaro Negredo as an alternative to Edin Dzeko as principal striker. What difference has the Chilean manager made? "I think throughout your career you always learn from every manager you work with," Silva says. "Certainly Manuel has given us a certain amount of freedom and joy when we're out there in our football. And I think that is proved by the amount of goals we've been scoring as a team, but it's still a little bit early to judge how far we can go, and how far we can progress and achieve in terms of trophies. "He is very calm, relaxed, and doesn't tend to lose his temper at all. And he transmits that calmness to the team. Obviously there are moments of tension, and any person can react in the heat of the moment, and in a game situation. But certainly he's a very calm guy." Surprised that Chelsea have not found a regular place for his Spain team-mate Juan Mata, Silva believes they will be among this season's main title challengers. He also names Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham, though conspicuously not another Manchester team. Three years in the city, and the City, have taught him a trick or two off the field as well as on it. Chelsea v Manchester City is on Sky Sports 1 today, kick-off 4pm today

Gareth Bale backed by Carlo Ancelotti after defeat Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti defended Gareth Bale despite his low-key performance in the 2-1 El Clasico defeatby Barcelona. The 24-year-old winger began the game in an unfamiliar position as a striker in what was only his second start of an injury-hit season. The £85m summer signing was replaced by Karim Benzema after an hour. Ancelotti said: "He played well and needs to look for his team-mates' runs. He didn't play badly during that hour." Bale joined Real from Tottenham for a world record fee in the summer but foot and thigh injuries have restricted his playing time. Of course you want to win this kind of game but at the moment we are improving Carlo Ancelotti- Real Madrid Ancelotti added: "I think they are his first matches and he needs to get used to playing with his team-mates, which is normal. "It doesn't make much difference for him to play on the right or in the middle. We started like that to put more pressure on Sergio Busquets, but after 20 minutes I changed his position to the wing to give him more room." Former Chelsea boss Ancelotti, who was experiencing his first Clasico, was adamant that Real should have been awarded a penalty when forward Cristiano Ronaldo went down under the challenge of defender Javier Mascherano with 20 minutes remaining. "Naturally the penalty was very clear for me. I think everyone saw it. The only person that didn't see it was the referee," he said. Ancelotti also explained why he placed Spain defender Sergio Ramos in midfield. "I played him there to look for balance in the middle of the park. I asked him about it before and he said he wanted to play there, so I put him in," continued the 54-year-old. "I didn't play defensively - [Luka] Modric isn't a defensive midfielder, and Marcelo, [Dani] Carvajal and Cristiano and [Angel] Di Maria are attackers. Barca did not play with any more attackers than we did." The ex Paris St-Germain manager said he was pleased with the performance of his team despite the result. "It's a fantastic game and atmosphere. I think it was a good game, and we showed we can play well against a fantastic team," he added. "Of course you want to win this kind of game but at the moment we are improving and this game proves that."

N255m BMW Cars: There Must Be No Cover-up Here is another opportunity to address the culture of impunity Following the national outrage that greeted the revelations that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) purchased two bullet-proof cars for the Minister of Aviation, Ms Stella Oduah, at the cost of N255 million, both the presidency and the National Assembly last week intervened by instituting separate inquiries into the transaction. While the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation has begun its public hearing, President Goodluck Jonathan has also established a three-man administrative panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the purchase of the vehicles. Headed by the immediate past Head of Service, Alhaji Sali Bello Isa, the presidential panel has two weeks to submit its report. However, it is noteworthy that the ongoing House inquiry has already revealed that the two BMW armoured cars and other operational vehicles bought by the NCAA gulped N643 million, a sum which is almost N400 million above the N240 million earmarked for them in the 2013 Appropriation Act. Even though the budget also provided for 25 operational vehicles, reports indicate that the NCAA went on to procure a total of 54 vehicles, including the controversial BMW armoured cars at triple the appropriated cost. Even at that, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) told the House committee that it had no information on the said purchase of the two bullet-proof cars. Yet the law stipulates that procurement from N100 million upwards should be approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC). The role of Coscharis Ltd in this episode highlights an often neglected aspect of the debate about the place of corporate bodies in the growing tales of graft in our country. Yet a nation in which both the commanding heights of the public sector and leading lights of the private sector are enmeshed in some unholy alliances is truly doomed. The present case therefore presents an opportunity for the relevant regulatory bodies to come up with best practices code for companies operating in Nigeria, whether foreign or indigenous. While we hope that the National Assembly will conclude its report and make its findings public so that a closure can quickly be put on this unfortunate saga, we consider it rather curious that the president would set up a panel to probe what ordinarily should be a routine criminal investigation by either the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the police. What makes the matter even more worrisome is that this government has a penchant for setting up committees on issues but lacks the commitment in taking appropriate decisions. That perhaps may have led to the insinuations that the two-week presidential panel may be no more than another diversionary measure to pre-empt the investigations already being undertaken by the National Assembly. We hope that is not the case. The critical issues in the unfortunate saga are whether it is appropriate for an agency being supervised by the minister to buy cars for her use at such a scandalous price, especially when the specific items were not appropriated for by the National Assembly. But perhaps of concern to many Nigerians is whether the government is not being trivialised if the National Security Adviser could be put in a committee to probe a minister over purchase of some cars. Whatever the motivation for the presidential panel, we believe it should worry the president that this administration is becoming synonymous with mind-boggling scandals involving key officials. From questionable fuel subsidy payments and waivers to official travel racketeering to vehicle purchase scams, etc., there is hardly any day that one official misdemeanour is not unearthed. Yet in nearly all cases, the suspects and their collaborators always retain their positions while hardly any meaningful investigations or prosecutions ever take place. In this particular instance, the evidence is incontrovertible that purchases were made at prices far in excess of the market price of the vehicles while aviation officials who admitted the malfeasance have only offered a litany of excuses and unreasonable justifications. It is therefore our contention that this episode offers the Jonathan presidency an opportunity to prove that it is prepared to begin the process of addressing the culture of impunity.

Gareth Bale had an El Clasico debut to forget as Barcelona beat Real Madrid 2-1 at the Camp Nou thanks to goals from Neymar and Alexis Sanchez. Bale had been surprisingly selected for just his second start since joining the club by Real boss Carlo Ancelotti, but struggled to make an impression as Barca dominated the first-half. Neymar gave the hosts a deserved lead with a neat finish from a narrow angle on 19 minutes before Lionel Messi ought to have doubled the advantage when he fired wide moments later. Bale was replaced by Karim Benzema on the hour mark and the Frenchman nearly made an instant impact when he smashed the crossbar with 21 minutes remaining. However, Sanchez sealed the points 12 minutes from time with a delightful chip over Diego Lopez. Substitute Jese Rodriguez pulled a goal back for Madrid in stoppage time, but it was too little too late as Barca moved six points clear of their rivals at the top of La Liga. "I am very happy for the victory, the three points and also for my goal. Every player wants to play in this game and I will go home very happy," Sanchez told GOL TV. "I didn't have any other option with the goal. I saw the 'keeper off his line and I had to try it. Fortunately it went in." Real, though, were left less than happy with the performance of referee Alberto Undiano Mallenco as he turned down two penalty claims with the score at 1-0. "The team have shown face against a very difficult opponent," said Sergio Ramos. "We have put Barca in difficulty, it is not easy to see them waste time, but there were two clear penalties and, although I don't like to judge referees, there are things against which you cannot fight." Bale's inclusion was not the only surprise amongst Ancelotti's starting line up as Ramos was also moved into an unfamiliar central midfield role. The Welshman had Madrid's first effort on goal with a left-footed strike that sailed well over, but it was Barca who settled quicker as Real struggled to come to terms with Neymar's pace and trickery. It was no surprise that it was the Brazilian who put Barca in front when he collected Andres Iniesta's pass inside the area and sneaked his shot from a narrow angle inside the far post with the aid of a slight deflection off Dani Carvajal. The presence of Cesc Fabregas in the Barca side had forced Messi into an unusual position on the right side. However, the Argentine should have doubled the lead two minutes later when he was released through on goal only to uncharacteristically slide the ball wide on his trusted left foot. Madrid did finally create a clear opening two minutes before the break when Sami Khedira slid in to meet Cristiano Ronaldo's cross and after his effort was brilliantly kept out by Victor Valdes, the ball appeared to strike Adriano on the arm. Bale's miserable first-half was rounded off in stoppage time when he saw a yellow card for a high challenge on Gerard Pique. Madrid started the second-half brightly as their pressing higher up the field unsettled Barca. However, the visitors had Lopez to thank for keeping them in the game as Javier Mascherano picked out Neymar with a wonderful pass in behind the Madrid defence and his volley was beaten away by the keeper. Ancelotti then introduced Asier Illarramendi for Ramos to improve Madrid's use of the ball in midfield. Real's pressing very nearly delivered an equaliser as Luka Modric and Khedira robbed Iniesta before the Croat fed Ronaldo and his rasping drive was turned behind by Valdes. Bale was then withdrawn as Ancelotti sent on Benzema in search of an equaliser. Ronaldo was left furious with the referee when he felt he had been bundled over by Adriano inside the area. And seconds later Benzema nearly marked his entrance in stunning fashion as he lashed an effort from outside the area off the underside of the bar. Sanchez ensured that Barca wouldn't have to endure a nervy final 10 minutes as he showed great speed to reach Neymar's pass before lifting a wonderfully judged lob over Lopez. Jese gave Madrid a flicker of hope in stoppage time as he collected Ronaldo's pass to score low past Valdes, but Los Blancos didn't have time to mount another attack as they slipped to their second defeat of the season.

Javier Hernandez's Heroics Show Chicarito Can Aid Manchester United Turnaround Manchester United's 3-2 comeback victory on Saturday was capped off by Javier Hernandez’s game-winning goal, thwarting an upset bid by an upstartStoke City club at OldTrafford. Hernandez has been a substitute due to the presence of superstar strikerRobin Van Persie, but proved that he can be a key contributor in turning around the Red Devils’ 2013-14 season. Losing to the Potters would have set United back considerably under first-year manager DavidMoyes, who has struggled in the early going to replace the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. Stoke City have not won in Old Trafford since 1976. We're breaking all kinds of records this season alright. Javier Hernandez scored a Premier League goal once every 95.4 mins last season. It took him just 100 mins to get his first goal this season. When the Red Devils trailed 2-1 late in Saturday’s English Premier League fixture, the defending trophy winners needed someone to step up in a desperate way. That’s when the 25-year-old Hernandez delivered in the 80th minute, heading in a goal to follow Wayne Rooney’s equalizer just two minutes prior. The winner was set up with a beautiful cross from Patrice Evra, which sailed to a nearly unmarked Hernandez. He redirected into the bottom right corner of the net, beating goalkeeper AsmirB egovic, whose attempted dive came up empty. It allowed United to escape with three points rather than one and was critical in getting the current campaign back on track. That boosts Manchester United to eighth in the EPL table with 14 points, trailing leaders Arsenal by eight. There is still plenty of season left, but this win was critical in establishing some momentum for a club that is still in transition amid an era of uncertainty. Moyes intimated earlier in the week that Hernandez would not be moved during the transfer window beginning in January, and implied he would play an integral part in United's season. David Moyes really kept his cool for that Javier Hernandez winner. Any more help the Red Devils can enlist on the attack would be welcome, as they have yielded 12 goals in nine EPL games. They conceded two to a Stoke City club that had only four goals in their prior eight—an EPL low. If Hernandez's breakthrough on Saturday was any indication, perhaps there's some merit toMoyes' stance about not moving the Mexican international. The Red Devils could certainly use more production from Hernandez in their struggle to retain supremacy in the league. Moyes would be wise to utilize him more before Hernandez becomes too buried on the bench and requests out of OldTrafford

Javier Hernandez's Heroics Show Chicarito Can Aid Manchester United Turnaround Manchester United's 3-2 comeback victory on Saturday was capped off by Javier Hernandez’s game-winning goal, thwarting an upset bid by an upstartStoke City club at OldTrafford. Hernandez has been a substitute due to the presence of superstar strikerRobin Van Persie, but proved that he can be a key contributor in turning around the Red Devils’ 2013-14 season. Losing to the Potters would have set United back considerably under first-year manager DavidMoyes, who has struggled in the early going to replace the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. Stoke City have not won in Old Trafford since 1976. We're breaking all kinds of records this season alright. Javier Hernandez scored a Premier League goal once every 95.4 mins last season. It took him just 100 mins to get his first goal this season. When the Red Devils trailed 2-1 late in Saturday’s English Premier League fixture, the defending trophy winners needed someone to step up in a desperate way. That’s when the 25-year-old Hernandez delivered in the 80th minute, heading in a goal to follow Wayne Rooney’s equalizer just two minutes prior. The winner was set up with a beautiful cross from Patrice Evra, which sailed to a nearly unmarked Hernandez. He redirected into the bottom right corner of the net, beating goalkeeper AsmirB egovic, whose attempted dive came up empty. It allowed United to escape with three points rather than one and was critical in getting the current campaign back on track. That boosts Manchester United to eighth in the EPL table with 14 points, trailing leaders Arsenal by eight. There is still plenty of season left, but this win was critical in establishing some momentum for a club that is still in transition amid an era of uncertainty. Moyes intimated earlier in the week that Hernandez would not be moved during the transfer window beginning in January, and implied he would play an integral part in United's season. David Moyes really kept his cool for that Javier Hernandez winner. Any more help the Red Devils can enlist on the attack would be welcome, as they have yielded 12 goals in nine EPL games. They conceded two to a Stoke City club that had only four goals in their prior eight—an EPL low. If Hernandez's breakthrough on Saturday was any indication, perhaps there's some merit toMoyes' stance about not moving the Mexican international. The Red Devils could certainly use more production from Hernandez in their struggle to retain supremacy in the league. Moyes would be wise to utilize him more before Hernandez becomes too buried on the bench and requests out of OldTrafford

Barcelona vs Real Madrid, Messi vs Ronaldo - El Clasico stats Both enjoy astonishing overall records for Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively, but how do Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo fare when the rival clubs meet in El Clasico? The Argentine has played Real Madrid twice in the Champions League: 14 times in La Liga, five times in the Copa Del Rey and on four occasions in the Spanish Supercopa. Ronaldo, meanwhile, has met Barcelona twice in the Champions League (not including the three times he played them in Manchester United colors), eight times in the league, five times in the Copa Del Rey and four times in the Supercopa. Based on the numbers, Messi’s record is clearly superior to that of the Portuguese, as he enjoys a winning percentage of 44 percent and an average of 0.72 goals per game, compared to Ronaldo’s winning percentage of 26 percent and strike rate of 0.63. The Barcelona No. 10 has also been far more prolific in assisting his teammates, setting up 10 more goals than his Madrid counterpart. Ronaldo could (and probably would) argue that he has closed the gap somewhat in recent times, however, as in the last six games between the Spanish, he has scored six times to Messi’s five. The Argentina captain is currently tied with Alfredo Di Stefano as the all-time top scorer in El Clasico, while in October, 2012, Cristiano became the first player to score in six consecutive Barcelona-Real Madrid matches. Match Facts • In last season of Spanish League, although Barcelona was the champions but Real Madrid won the battle against The Blaugrana. The Vikings won in the last El Clasico 2-1 and drew the second 1-1. • The defense of Barca is looking stronger in this tournament so far. Out of last five wins, they made three clean sheets victories. • But if we take a look on last matches of La Liga and UCL, Barcelona played two draws in a row which Messi scored equalizer in his meet against AC Milan. • Last season, The Whites won one game out of the two played against Barca in Spanish League. Blaugrana also lost in Super cup against The Whites and in the semi finals of Copa del Rey. • Out of last five matches of El Clasico, The Vikings have not lost any match against Barca. Messi’s Record Against Real Madrid Matches Goals Assists Wins Losses Draws 25 18 11 11 7 7 Ronaldo’s Record Against Barcelona (for Real Madrid) Matches Goals Assists Wins Losses Draws 19 12 1 5 8 6

Neymar and Bale ready for their first El Clasico The rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid is unprecedented and as the first El Clasico of the season looms, the sides’ biggest signings- Neymar and Gareth Bale are set to take the centre stage, writes Seyi Nathaniel with agency reports The games between Barcelona and Real Madrid are always atmospheric, and often provide a gladiatorial atmosphere for the players, and this one is likely to be no exception. In a constellation of stars, both teams have an established team leader, and an aspiring newcomer, and the fate of the game may well be decided by which of these two pairs performs the better. Recent games between the two have seen battles between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as the deciding factors of games; whichever of the two best players in the world wins ascendancy has settled the issue. Both Ronaldo and Messi netted for their clubs in midweek Champions’ League games against Italian opposition. This weekend’s game however, may hinge on the expensive new recruits, and which of them can step up to the plate. After his protracted transfer saga over the summer, this game will be the very essence of the reason – aside from the undoubted increase in salary – that Gareth Bale fought so hard to join Real Madrid. To play in a match-up between two of Europe’s biggest clubs, and be on the same pitch as the two outstanding players of the generation is a ‘Boy’s Own’ experience for any young player, and as the most expensive, Bale has every right to be there. The Welshman has yet to ignite his career at the Bernabeu into full flame, but a virtuoso performance at the home of Madrid’s bitterest rivals, with all of the political back play apparent, would go a long way to making endearing him to both club and fans. Meanwhile, Neymar is excited about his first meeting with Real Madrid today. The Brazil international joined Barca from Santos in the summer for £48.6m and has scored three goals in 13 games. “The Clasico is the most important game for any player. It’s the match every player wants to play in. It’s the game where each player wants to play his best football ,” the 21-year-old told the club website. He added: “This will be my first Clasico and I hope to have a great debut, preferably with a victory. I think the anxiety is the same before any match. I understand that we’re talking about a very important Clasico but I think that butterfly-in-the-stomach feeling is the same before any game.” Coach Gerardo Martino, who replaced Tito Vilanova in the summer, is not worried about coming into the game on the back of two draws. “I have no doubts on the team’s ability to perform. I would have liked to defeat Osasuna and Milan, but we’re doing well and we’re still growing,” the Argentine said. Real Madrid currently lie three points adrift of the Blaugrana, and a defeat at the Camp Nou would double that, with the gap then beginning to assume major proportions. It is therefore important to Carlo Ancelotti’s ram that they do not succumb. Given the make-up of the teams, it appears likely that the pace of Ronaldo and Bale will be deployed in the areas behind the rampaging Barca full backs, unless this is curbed by Gerardo Martino. It’s ploy that has a decent success rate for playing against the Catalans. It’s likely that attack will be the home team’s mantra, whilst counter-attack will form Madrid’s plan. Indeed, Carles Puyol has insisted he is ready to face Real Madrid should he be selected by Gerardo Martino, despite playing just one game since returning from knee surgery. Puyol made his comeback after seven months out in the 0-0 draw with Osasuna last weekend and completed the 90 minutes without any physical problems. Martino however reverted to his tried and trusted central defensive partnership of Gerard Pique and Javier Mascherano for the 1-1 UEFA Champions League draw with AC Milan on Tuesday. However, with Pique struggling with a hamstring strain, Puyol is readying himself to make his first appearance at the Camp Nou since March. “Just to return to training with my team-mates and be feeling good is a great joy for me so imagine what it would be like to be involved in a Clásico,” he said. “It is a game that everyone wants to play in, I just have to prepare myself and wait to see what the manager decides. During the Osasuna game I felt very good sensations. Afterwards, I had my doubts as to how the knee would react, but in the recovery sessions everything went well.” Puyol however insists that nothing will be decided on Saturday with 28 league games still to come.”There is a long way to go and the league will not be resolved in the Clásico, but it is a good match to gain confidence. People speak about the game a huge amount before, after they analyse everything, but in the end it is another game of football with three points up for grabs. Madrid is always a team that demands the most of you. They have great players and they arrive with confidence.”

Neymar and Bale ready for their first El Clasico The rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid is unprecedented and as the first El Clasico of the season looms, the sides’ biggest signings- Neymar and Gareth Bale are set to take the centre stage, writes Seyi Nathaniel with agency reports The games between Barcelona and Real Madrid are always atmospheric, and often provide a gladiatorial atmosphere for the players, and this one is likely to be no exception. In a constellation of stars, both teams have an established team leader, and an aspiring newcomer, and the fate of the game may well be decided by which of these two pairs performs the better. Recent games between the two have seen battles between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as the deciding factors of games; whichever of the two best players in the world wins ascendancy has settled the issue. Both Ronaldo and Messi netted for their clubs in midweek Champions’ League games against Italian opposition. This weekend’s game however, may hinge on the expensive new recruits, and which of them can step up to the plate. After his protracted transfer saga over the summer, this game will be the very essence of the reason – aside from the undoubted increase in salary – that Gareth Bale fought so hard to join Real Madrid. To play in a match-up between two of Europe’s biggest clubs, and be on the same pitch as the two outstanding players of the generation is a ‘Boy’s Own’ experience for any young player, and as the most expensive, Bale has every right to be there. The Welshman has yet to ignite his career at the Bernabeu into full flame, but a virtuoso performance at the home of Madrid’s bitterest rivals, with all of the political back play apparent, would go a long way to making endearing him to both club and fans. Meanwhile, Neymar is excited about his first meeting with Real Madrid today. The Brazil international joined Barca from Santos in the summer for £48.6m and has scored three goals in 13 games. “The Clasico is the most important game for any player. It’s the match every player wants to play in. It’s the game where each player wants to play his best football ,” the 21-year-old told the club website. He added: “This will be my first Clasico and I hope to have a great debut, preferably with a victory. I think the anxiety is the same before any match. I understand that we’re talking about a very important Clasico but I think that butterfly-in-the-stomach feeling is the same before any game.” Coach Gerardo Martino, who replaced Tito Vilanova in the summer, is not worried about coming into the game on the back of two draws. “I have no doubts on the team’s ability to perform. I would have liked to defeat Osasuna and Milan, but we’re doing well and we’re still growing,” the Argentine said. Real Madrid currently lie three points adrift of the Blaugrana, and a defeat at the Camp Nou would double that, with the gap then beginning to assume major proportions. It is therefore important to Carlo Ancelotti’s ram that they do not succumb. Given the make-up of the teams, it appears likely that the pace of Ronaldo and Bale will be deployed in the areas behind the rampaging Barca full backs, unless this is curbed by Gerardo Martino. It’s ploy that has a decent success rate for playing against the Catalans. It’s likely that attack will be the home team’s mantra, whilst counter-attack will form Madrid’s plan. Indeed, Carles Puyol has insisted he is ready to face Real Madrid should he be selected by Gerardo Martino, despite playing just one game since returning from knee surgery. Puyol made his comeback after seven months out in the 0-0 draw with Osasuna last weekend and completed the 90 minutes without any physical problems. Martino however reverted to his tried and trusted central defensive partnership of Gerard Pique and Javier Mascherano for the 1-1 UEFA Champions League draw with AC Milan on Tuesday. However, with Pique struggling with a hamstring strain, Puyol is readying himself to make his first appearance at the Camp Nou since March. “Just to return to training with my team-mates and be feeling good is a great joy for me so imagine what it would be like to be involved in a Clásico,” he said. “It is a game that everyone wants to play in, I just have to prepare myself and wait to see what the manager decides. During the Osasuna game I felt very good sensations. Afterwards, I had my doubts as to how the knee would react, but in the recovery sessions everything went well.” Puyol however insists that nothing will be decided on Saturday with 28 league games still to come.”There is a long way to go and the league will not be resolved in the Clásico, but it is a good match to gain confidence. People speak about the game a huge amount before, after they analyse everything, but in the end it is another game of football with three points up for grabs. Madrid is always a team that demands the most of you. They have great players and they arrive with confidence.”

Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has praised the club's capture of Mesut Ozil and believes the Germany international can take the Gunners to another level. Arsene Wenger already had a wealth of playmakers to choose from, with many suggesting Arsenal did not really need Ozil, but Fabregas has quashed those notions and is convinced the 25-year-old will galvanise the north London outfit. ARSENAL LATEST 9/2 Arsenal are 9/2 with William Hill to win the Premier League“If you have the chance to sign Mesut Ozil then you can’t let it pass you by,” the Barcelona man toldThe Daily Mail. “He wanted to play for Arsenal. Wenger won him over and when you have the chance with a player like that it doesn’t matter if you already have seven or eight who are similar, you have to take it. “Ozil is the man who makes the difference in the final third. He will find so much space in the Premier League and he’s a player who with space kills you. His final pass is brilliant. And he will score more goals in England than he did in Spain. He is a spectacular signing. “Ozil will bring the best out in [Aaron] Ramsey and [Jack] Wilshere. They understand football the same way. “The only player who maybe is a bit different is Theo Walcott but you also need that type of player because it’s true that at the end of pass, pass, pass you need a Pedro — someone who will get behind the opposition. Someone who gives depth and hits space.” Fabregas was linked with a move back to the Emirates Stadium during the summer, though remained at Camp Nou, but says he would welcome a return in a coaching capacity. “I’m sure they would give me the option to help out there,” the Spaniard added. “Sol Campbell is there at the moment. Dennis Bergkamp also went there two or three times a week to train when he was doing his coaching badges. It’s a great club in that sense.”

FIFA U-17 World Cup: My Eaglets not technically deficient, Garba replies critics Golden Eaglets coach, Manu Garba has argued that it was unfair for his players to receive thumbs down after their 3-3 display against Sweden on Tuesday, at the on-going FIFA Under-17 World Cup here in the United Arab Emirate. The Eaglets came from behind to share the points with the Swedes, after an emphatic 6-1 thrashing of Mexico in their group F opening game. The team on Tuesday looked out-maneuvered by the Sweden and Nigerian fans were to concluded that the team was deficient especially in the defence. But coach Garba said that that it was wrong for people to say that, pointing out that: “This is an Under-17 team and none of them have experience. You do not expect them not to make some mistakes at times. “I do not think we have struggled in this tournament or at the CAN Junior event. We scored 18 goals in Morocco while Ivory Coast scored five and people are still feeling that we struggled. “We are getting better. At this tournament, we have shown that we can score and will get better with stronger opposi-tion”, added Garba. Coach Garba not given to flamboyancy unlike colleagues like Godwin Uwa, Stephen Keshi, Samson Siasia and John Obuh, stated that he and his assistant did a good job of selecting the players for the team. “It was not an easy job at all. This is against the background of dust that was raised in the past concerning the true ages of our players. It took me and my coaches a lot of time to go across the country to get these boys from the schools. “Most people think that the crop of the players are from academies but that is not true. Most of these players are from schools. In fact, we discovered a few of them from the Shell Cup for Secondary Schools because that tournament is truly for students in secondary schools. “We picked a few of them from soccer academies but we had to work on them so that they can perform to get them to where they are now. They are still a work in progress because they are Under-17 players and you do not expect them to know everything in some months”, added Garba. He informed Saturday Vanguard Sports that the ultimate plan was to take the crop of the current team to the Flying Eagles in two years’ time, noting that the players have shown that they have the talent to naturally fill that position. “Our ambition is to take them to the next FIFA U-20 World Cup and African Junior Championship. “They have shown promises of a good future and if they get contracts with foreign clubs, it will be great for us and our cause to build a stronger team in two years’ time. “If they get good deals with foreign teams, that will help them to play even better for Nigeria in the next tournament. I see them going places”, Garba said. His whole national football career has been around youth teams. He was amongst the first Flying Eagles set that qualified to represent Nigeria at the maiden FIFA U-20 World Cup, Mexico 1983. He assisted the late Coach Yemi Tella to win the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup in South Korea. Garba, assisted by Nduka Ugbade and Emmanuel Amuneke succeeded to qualify the Golden Eaglets for the ongoing FIFA World Cup in UAE.

Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has praised the club's capture of Mesut Ozil and believes the Germany international can take the Gunners to another level. Arsene Wenger already had a wealth of playmakers to choose from, with many suggesting Arsenal did not really need Ozil, but Fabregas has quashed those notions and is convinced the 25-year-old will galvanise the north London outfit. ARSENAL LATEST 9/2 Arsenal are 9/2 with William Hill to win the Premier League“If you have the chance to sign Mesut Ozil then you can’t let it pass you by,” the Barcelona man toldThe Daily Mail. “He wanted to play for Arsenal. Wenger won him over and when you have the chance with a player like that it doesn’t matter if you already have seven or eight who are similar, you have to take it. “Ozil is the man who makes the difference in the final third. He will find so much space in the Premier League and he’s a player who with space kills you. His final pass is brilliant. And he will score more goals in England than he did in Spain. He is a spectacular signing. “Ozil will bring the best out in [Aaron] Ramsey and [Jack] Wilshere. They understand football the same way. “The only player who maybe is a bit different is Theo Walcott but you also need that type of player because it’s true that at the end of pass, pass, pass you need a Pedro — someone who will get behind the opposition. Someone who gives depth and hits space.” Fabregas was linked with a move back to the Emirates Stadium during the summer, though remained at Camp Nou, but says he would welcome a return in a coaching capacity. “I’m sure they would give me the option to help out there,” the Spaniard added. “Sol Campbell is there at the moment. Dennis Bergkamp also went there two or three times a week to train when he was doing his coaching badges. It’s a great club in that sense.”

Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has praised the club's capture of Mesut Ozil and believes the Germany international can take the Gunners to another level. Arsene Wenger already had a wealth of playmakers to choose from, with many suggesting Arsenal did not really need Ozil, but Fabregas has quashed those notions and is convinced the 25-year-old will galvanise the north London outfit. ARSENAL LATEST 9/2 Arsenal are 9/2 with William Hill to win the Premier League“If you have the chance to sign Mesut Ozil then you can’t let it pass you by,” the Barcelona man toldThe Daily Mail. “He wanted to play for Arsenal. Wenger won him over and when you have the chance with a player like that it doesn’t matter if you already have seven or eight who are similar, you have to take it. “Ozil is the man who makes the difference in the final third. He will find so much space in the Premier League and he’s a player who with space kills you. His final pass is brilliant. And he will score more goals in England than he did in Spain. He is a spectacular signing. “Ozil will bring the best out in [Aaron] Ramsey and [Jack] Wilshere. They understand football the same way. “The only player who maybe is a bit different is Theo Walcott but you also need that type of player because it’s true that at the end of pass, pass, pass you need a Pedro — someone who will get behind the opposition. Someone who gives depth and hits space.” Fabregas was linked with a move back to the Emirates Stadium during the summer, though remained at Camp Nou, but says he would welcome a return in a coaching capacity. “I’m sure they would give me the option to help out there,” the Spaniard added. “Sol Campbell is there at the moment. Dennis Bergkamp also went there two or three times a week to train when he was doing his coaching badges. It’s a great club in that sense.”

Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has praised the club's capture of Mesut Ozil and believes the Germany international can take the Gunners to another level. Arsene Wenger already had a wealth of playmakers to choose from, with many suggesting Arsenal did not really need Ozil, but Fabregas has quashed those notions and is convinced the 25-year-old will galvanise the north London outfit. ARSENAL LATEST 9/2 Arsenal are 9/2 with William Hill to win the Premier League“If you have the chance to sign Mesut Ozil then you can’t let it pass you by,” the Barcelona man toldThe Daily Mail. “He wanted to play for Arsenal. Wenger won him over and when you have the chance with a player like that it doesn’t matter if you already have seven or eight who are similar, you have to take it. “Ozil is the man who makes the difference in the final third. He will find so much space in the Premier League and he’s a player who with space kills you. His final pass is brilliant. And he will score more goals in England than he did in Spain. He is a spectacular signing. “Ozil will bring the best out in [Aaron] Ramsey and [Jack] Wilshere. They understand football the same way. “The only player who maybe is a bit different is Theo Walcott but you also need that type of player because it’s true that at the end of pass, pass, pass you need a Pedro — someone who will get behind the opposition. Someone who gives depth and hits space.” Fabregas was linked with a move back to the Emirates Stadium during the summer, though remained at Camp Nou, but says he would welcome a return in a coaching capacity. “I’m sure they would give me the option to help out there,” the Spaniard added. “Sol Campbell is there at the moment. Dennis Bergkamp also went there two or three times a week to train when he was doing his coaching badges. It’s a great club in that sense.”

Neymar says he knows how to handle Pepe after being shown a video tape of the Real Madrid defender. Neymar, 21, could make his Clasico debut on Saturday and is likely to face the rugged centre-back, who he was up against in September's friendly between Brazil and Portugal, which theSelecaowon 3-1. But the attacker says he will not be "provoked" as he knows how to deal with the controversial Portuguese's style of play following a tape sent by the Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) before the friendly. “They sent me a video and they also sent one to [fellow Brazil international] Thiago Silva so that we didn’t get provoked," he toldGlobo TV. “It wasn’t just for my sake, it was for the sake of my team-mates too." Neymar has scored two goals in eight league games for Barcelona this season.

Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote insists the only way to answer your critics is on the pitch. Tiote is set to captain Newcastle in the Wear-Tyne derby with Sunderland this Sunday as regular captain Fabricio Coloccini is sidelined through injury. And the combative midfielder, who was sent off in the corresponding fixture last term, says that Newcastle need to stay together as a team. "There is no escape from the criticism if we lose games. It is hard. But we know we have good players in this team. If everybody is focused we will do well," he told the Evening Chronicle. "The only way we can answer people is by winning. If we lose we have to make sure we don't repeat the mistakes. "We have been trying to do that in the last few games. We must stay compact as a team and stay together. If we do we'll win the game. "When you're on the pitch you have to give everything for the fans and the manager." Tiote insists he does not pay too much attention to any criticism that comes his way. "I don't read anything on the internet or TV," he said. "It isn't important for me. We just have to focus in the most important area - on the pitch. "If we do our jobs we will win games. That is the most important thing." And he is hoping that he can help send Newcastle's travelling support home happy on Sunday. "Our fans have travelled everywhere, I am always happy when we give them wins," he said. "We don't want to send them home unhappy."

Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote insists the only way to answer your critics is on the pitch. Tiote is set to captain Newcastle in the Wear-Tyne derby with Sunderland this Sunday as regular captain Fabricio Coloccini is sidelined through injury. And the combative midfielder, who was sent off in the corresponding fixture last term, says that Newcastle need to stay together as a team. "There is no escape from the criticism if we lose games. It is hard. But we know we have good players in this team. If everybody is focused we will do well," he told the Evening Chronicle. "The only way we can answer people is by winning. If we lose we have to make sure we don't repeat the mistakes. "We have been trying to do that in the last few games. We must stay compact as a team and stay together. If we do we'll win the game. "When you're on the pitch you have to give everything for the fans and the manager." Tiote insists he does not pay too much attention to any criticism that comes his way. "I don't read anything on the internet or TV," he said. "It isn't important for me. We just have to focus in the most important area - on the pitch. "If we do our jobs we will win games. That is the most important thing." And he is hoping that he can help send Newcastle's travelling support home happy on Sunday. "Our fans have travelled everywhere, I am always happy when we give them wins," he said. "We don't want to send them home unhappy."

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that Mesut Ozil was "not on Manchester United's radar" in 2010, despite Wayne Rooney urging the club to sign him. Back in 2010, Ozil, who has made a superb start to life in England following his £42million move from Real Madrid to Arsenal at the start of last month, starred for his country as Germany beat England 4-1 in the second round of the 2010 World Cup, alerting Rooney to the potential of the then Werder Bremen player. Ozil ended up moving to Real Madrid, before joining Arsene Wenger's side in September. "The thing was Ozil was not on our radar," Sir Alex said at Tuesday's news conference to launch his book,Alex Ferguson: My Autobiography. "I said that to Wayne at the time. We signed Chicharito [Javier Hernandez] that summer. My thoughts at the time were a Rooney and Chicharito partnership. That was a fair prospect for us to look at. "When Ozil was at Werder [Bremen] he played wide right initially, then towards the second part of that season they played him off the front. "He was part of the great Germany Under-21 team that went to South Africa. That type of player was not necessarily on our radar - a No. 10. I told Wayne: 'Leave the signing of players to me.' We've got lots of them right." In the book, Ferguson had said he believed Rooney's comments were designed to either engineer a move away from Old Trafford or land an improved contract - something he did later that year. "I felt he'd been programmed in what he was trying to say," wrote the Scot, who retired as United boss at the end of last season. "The basis of his complaint was that we were not sufficiently ambitious. My response was to ask Wayne: 'When have we not challenged for the league in the last 20 years? How many European finals have we been to in the last three or four years?' I told him that to say we weren't ambitious was nonsense. "Wayne said that we should have pursued Mesut Ozil, who had joined Real Madrid from Werder Bremen. My reply was that it was none of his business who we should have gone for. I told him it was his job to play and perform. My job was to pick the correct teams. And so far I had been getting it right."

Napoli coach Rafa Benitez has explained starting Gonzalo Higuain from the bench for the last defeat to AS Roma. Higuain was only a substitute and there were reports the striker told Benitez he didnt want to start. "I made the decision, we watch the players in every training session and I decided it was better to start with Pandev," insisted the coach. "If we find space for rapid counter-attack, then we make it difficult for anyone. We had a few chances and moved the ball around well, but against a strong side like Roma to concede a goal on the stroke of half-time and another on a penalty it becomes difficult for everyone. "I look at the performance and in terms of character Napoli did very well. I said beforehand this game would not decide the title, but clearly with the way we played I'd say it was a positve match. We played well and this bodes well for the future."

Emmanuel Emenike now realizing huge potential in the colours of Nigeria

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