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Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 Olympique de Marseille: Ibrahimovic caps fortunate victory
Paris Saint-Germain had to withstand a barrage from rival Olympique de Marseille, but the club claimed a 2-0 victory over its great rival to earn the spoils in Ligue 1’s Classique and to once again move three points clear at the summit of Le Championnat.
On the evening on which David Beckham came off the bench to play his first 15 minutes as a PSG player, it was an own goal from Nicolas Nkoulou that was vital in differentiating the sides, as the center back was unfortunate to deflect a shot from Lucas into his own goal. A fluke from Zlatan Ibrahimovic late on then secured the points.
This moment capped a whirlwind start from Carlo Ancelotti’s men in a match that would be played with an unrelenting tempo throughout. With little over a minute played, Ibrahimovic combined with the excellent Ezequiel Lavezzi for the ex-Napoli man to break the offside trap and send a firm first-time effort against the frame of Steve Mandanda’s goal.
Having been overwhelmed initially, Marseille would go on to control much of the rest of the evening as PSG rather lost its way and relied on goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu to keep the opponents out.
With half an hour played, Joey Barton could not quite gain enough purchase on his header to trouble the Italian, and within 60 seconds Foued Kadir had nutmegged Maxwell and unleashed a fierce shot that stretched the ex-Palermo star.
Before the interval, Sirigu would be further tested. A Mathieu Valbuena free kick swerved wickedly due to a slight deflection, but the goalkeeper was firmly behind it, and moments later a similar save denied Andre-Pierre Gignac.
Marseille’s momentum was not dampened by the interval. Within 60 seconds of the restart Valbuena had released Gignac down the left, but Sirigu was again to the fore albeit he was not given credit for his save as a goal kick was awarded. The former Toulouse striker showed he has an eye for the spectacular too, but his difficult overhead was touched over.
On the hour mark PSG managed brief respite. Ibrahimovic had an effort direct from a free kick that would ultimately go down as the team's first shot on target, and a minute later he shot wide after good work from Lucas Moura.
Although the capital side broke with purpose on many occasions, its final ball was regularly lacking, which invited pressure from Marseille.
Though further dangerous shots came from Mathieu Valbuena, who left Sirigu motionless with a long-range drive that flirted with the post, and Rod Fanni, who thumping effort needed punched away, Elie Baup’s side could not find a breakthrough.
Indeed, Ibrahimovic’s late goal, when a Jeremy Menez cross was deflected in off his knee, told the story of OM’s night,
It was something of a role reversal for OM, which has been known for its ability to win scrappy matches, but this defeat leaves the title race to become a two-horse race between Lyon and PSG, which took the upper hand once more by re-establishing its three-point advantage in extremely trying circumstances.
If anything, this match was a reminder that the race for the French crown is by no means a foregone conclusion.
Paris Saint-Germain had to withstand a barrage from rival Olympique de Marseille, but the club claimed a 2-0 victory over its great rival to earn the spoils in Ligue 1’s Classique and to once again move three points clear at the summit of Le Championnat.
On the evening on which David Beckham came off the bench to play his first 15 minutes as a PSG player, it was an own goal from Nicolas Nkoulou that was vital in differentiating the sides, as the center back was unfortunate to deflect a shot from Lucas into his own goal. A fluke from Zlatan Ibrahimovic late on then secured the points.
This moment capped a whirlwind start from Carlo Ancelotti’s men in a match that would be played with an unrelenting tempo throughout. With little over a minute played, Ibrahimovic combined with the excellent Ezequiel Lavezzi for the ex-Napoli man to break the offside trap and send a firm first-time effort against the frame of Steve Mandanda’s goal.
Having been overwhelmed initially, Marseille would go on to control much of the rest of the evening as PSG rather lost its way and relied on goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu to keep the opponents out.
With half an hour played, Joey Barton could not quite gain enough purchase on his header to trouble the Italian, and within 60 seconds Foued Kadir had nutmegged Maxwell and unleashed a fierce shot that stretched the ex-Palermo star.
Before the interval, Sirigu would be further tested. A Mathieu Valbuena free kick swerved wickedly due to a slight deflection, but the goalkeeper was firmly behind it, and moments later a similar save denied Andre-Pierre Gignac.
Marseille’s momentum was not dampened by the interval. Within 60 seconds of the restart Valbuena had released Gignac down the left, but Sirigu was again to the fore albeit he was not given credit for his save as a goal kick was awarded. The former Toulouse striker showed he has an eye for the spectacular too, but his difficult overhead was touched over.
On the hour mark PSG managed brief respite. Ibrahimovic had an effort direct from a free kick that would ultimately go down as the team's first shot on target, and a minute later he shot wide after good work from Lucas Moura.
Although the capital side broke with purpose on many occasions, its final ball was regularly lacking, which invited pressure from Marseille.
Though further dangerous shots came from Mathieu Valbuena, who left Sirigu motionless with a long-range drive that flirted with the post, and Rod Fanni, who thumping effort needed punched away, Elie Baup’s side could not find a breakthrough.
Indeed, Ibrahimovic’s late goal, when a Jeremy Menez cross was deflected in off his knee, told the story of OM’s night,
It was something of a role reversal for OM, which has been known for its ability to win scrappy matches, but this defeat leaves the title race to become a two-horse race between Lyon and PSG, which took the upper hand once more by re-establishing its three-point advantage in extremely trying circumstances.
If anything, this match was a reminder that the race for the French crown is by no means a foregone conclusion.
Inter 1-1 AC Milan: El Shaarawy and Schelotto exchange strikes in absorbing derby clash
Inter and AC Milan battled to a 1-1 draw during a crucial Derby della Madoninna clash in Serie A at San Siro on Sunday.
Stephan El Shaarawy's razor-sharp finish opened the scoring for the Rossoneri who should have been out of sight by half time, but wasted a number of chances, with Mario Balotelli particularly at fault for a few glaring misses.
And with 19 minutes remaining, the Nerazzurri would make them pay for their profligacy, when substitute Ezequiel Schelotto powered home a header to ensure that his side would take home a share of the spoils, which leaves them one point behind Milan in third place.
Ricky Alvarez was handed a surprise start in midfield, with Yuto Nagatomo and Walter Gargano also stepping into the side. For Milan, Balotelli, ineligible during the Champions League midweek, returned to displace Giampaolo Pazzini against his former club.
The first half belonged to the Rossoneri. Mattia De Sciglio’s early shot was saved before his flashed cross found Balotelli unmarked yards from goal, but the forward’s first touch let him down badly, and allowed Samir Handanovic to claim, when he should have had no chance.
It was a golden opportunity wasted, but Milan, who was bettering its rival in all areas of the pitch, would make no such mistake with their next opening 21 minutes in.Sulley Muntari did excellently to win the ball and feed Kevin-Prince Boateng, who slipped in the sprinting El Shaarawy between two defenders for a thunderous finish into the corner.
Inter, abject up front and shambolic at the back, was hanging on for dear life, and indeed, owed a lot of debt to Handanovic for keeping it in the contest.The Slovenian was at his very best to tip away a Balotelli header from point blank range before standing tall to deny the 22-year-old a tap-in from inside the six-yard area.
Minutes before the interval, Handanovic won the battle against Balotelli yet again, reacting well to thwart the striker’s 30-yard free-kick as the Nerazzurri somehow ended the first half only a goal down.
It took Andrea Stramaccioni’s men the best part of an hour to get their first real chance on goal. Rodrigo Palacio’s superb cross was met with conviction by Fredy Guarin, but Christian Abbiati did excellently to save, with Antonio Cassano striking the rebound onto the post.
Handanovic did well to touch a cross away from the onrushing Balotelli, as Milan looked to regain its first-half dominance. But instead, with 19 minutes remaining, Inter found a way back into the match.Nagatomo sent an in-swinging cross into the area where Schelotto, only on as a substitute for three minutes, rose highest to thump a punishing header past Abbiati for the equalizer.
Muntari sent a long-range piledriver whistling inches wide of the post, and Schelotto forced a good save out of Abbiati with another header, but there was no more to come, as both teams were foced to settle for a point apiece.
Inter and AC Milan battled to a 1-1 draw during a crucial Derby della Madoninna clash in Serie A at San Siro on Sunday.
Stephan El Shaarawy's razor-sharp finish opened the scoring for the Rossoneri who should have been out of sight by half time, but wasted a number of chances, with Mario Balotelli particularly at fault for a few glaring misses.
And with 19 minutes remaining, the Nerazzurri would make them pay for their profligacy, when substitute Ezequiel Schelotto powered home a header to ensure that his side would take home a share of the spoils, which leaves them one point behind Milan in third place.
Ricky Alvarez was handed a surprise start in midfield, with Yuto Nagatomo and Walter Gargano also stepping into the side. For Milan, Balotelli, ineligible during the Champions League midweek, returned to displace Giampaolo Pazzini against his former club.
The first half belonged to the Rossoneri. Mattia De Sciglio’s early shot was saved before his flashed cross found Balotelli unmarked yards from goal, but the forward’s first touch let him down badly, and allowed Samir Handanovic to claim, when he should have had no chance.
It was a golden opportunity wasted, but Milan, who was bettering its rival in all areas of the pitch, would make no such mistake with their next opening 21 minutes in.Sulley Muntari did excellently to win the ball and feed Kevin-Prince Boateng, who slipped in the sprinting El Shaarawy between two defenders for a thunderous finish into the corner.
Inter, abject up front and shambolic at the back, was hanging on for dear life, and indeed, owed a lot of debt to Handanovic for keeping it in the contest.The Slovenian was at his very best to tip away a Balotelli header from point blank range before standing tall to deny the 22-year-old a tap-in from inside the six-yard area.
Minutes before the interval, Handanovic won the battle against Balotelli yet again, reacting well to thwart the striker’s 30-yard free-kick as the Nerazzurri somehow ended the first half only a goal down.
It took Andrea Stramaccioni’s men the best part of an hour to get their first real chance on goal. Rodrigo Palacio’s superb cross was met with conviction by Fredy Guarin, but Christian Abbiati did excellently to save, with Antonio Cassano striking the rebound onto the post.
Handanovic did well to touch a cross away from the onrushing Balotelli, as Milan looked to regain its first-half dominance. But instead, with 19 minutes remaining, Inter found a way back into the match.Nagatomo sent an in-swinging cross into the area where Schelotto, only on as a substitute for three minutes, rose highest to thump a punishing header past Abbiati for the equalizer.
Muntari sent a long-range piledriver whistling inches wide of the post, and Schelotto forced a good save out of Abbiati with another header, but there was no more to come, as both teams were foced to settle for a point apiece.
Fabio: I wanted to celebrate Rafael's goal
The left back was ineligible to face parent club Manchester United on Saturday and had to check his surroundings when witnessing his brother's long-range opener in the 2-0 result.Fabio da Silva said that he almost celebrated his twin brother Rafael's goal for Manchester United in the 2-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers on Saturday -- except that he was seated next to QPR chairman Tony Fernandes.
The left back is currently on loan at Loftus Road from the Red Devils, so he was ineligible to face his parent club, and he had to hold back the urge to cheer his brother's highlight-reel finish past Julio Cesar.
"I was pleased to see my brother score a goal like that. Naturally I wanted to celebrate. But I was sat next to the QPR president!" Fabio told Globoesporte. "I told him afterwards: 'You never score goals like that! You had to do it against my team!' But I was happy for him."
Fabio has played in 15 Premier League games (11 starts) for QPR since his loan to the last-place side, getting more playing time than in any of his four previous seasons with Manchester United.
"I've grown a lot this season," Fabio said. "We've both matured. He's flying [for Manchester United] and I'm playing more. The change has been good for us."
Meanwhile, Rafael has admitted he was finding it difficult being separated from his brother for the first time since their arrival in England in 2008, but he insisted the pair were coping with the change.
"Fabio moving to London was the first time we were really separated," Rafael said. "We never spent a year apart. But we're coping.
"At the time of the game, [you] forget it all, forget that on the opposite team is your sibling. We are professional and have to play to win. Because Manchester is fighting to be champions and we want to win every game.
"I'm happy that we won today and got a little closer to the title."
The left back was ineligible to face parent club Manchester United on Saturday and had to check his surroundings when witnessing his brother's long-range opener in the 2-0 result.Fabio da Silva said that he almost celebrated his twin brother Rafael's goal for Manchester United in the 2-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers on Saturday -- except that he was seated next to QPR chairman Tony Fernandes.
The left back is currently on loan at Loftus Road from the Red Devils, so he was ineligible to face his parent club, and he had to hold back the urge to cheer his brother's highlight-reel finish past Julio Cesar.
"I was pleased to see my brother score a goal like that. Naturally I wanted to celebrate. But I was sat next to the QPR president!" Fabio told Globoesporte. "I told him afterwards: 'You never score goals like that! You had to do it against my team!' But I was happy for him."
Fabio has played in 15 Premier League games (11 starts) for QPR since his loan to the last-place side, getting more playing time than in any of his four previous seasons with Manchester United.
"I've grown a lot this season," Fabio said. "We've both matured. He's flying [for Manchester United] and I'm playing more. The change has been good for us."
Meanwhile, Rafael has admitted he was finding it difficult being separated from his brother for the first time since their arrival in England in 2008, but he insisted the pair were coping with the change.
"Fabio moving to London was the first time we were really separated," Rafael said. "We never spent a year apart. But we're coping.
"At the time of the game, [you] forget it all, forget that on the opposite team is your sibling. We are professional and have to play to win. Because Manchester is fighting to be champions and we want to win every game.
"I'm happy that we won today and got a little closer to the title."
'It's not about me!' - Bale desperate to help Tottenham secure Champions League place
The 23-year-old Wales international fires Spurs to third place after another impressive performance and gives the club a massive boost ahead of the crucial north London derby Gareth Bale insists his individual performances will not overshadow Tottenham's bid to secure Champions League football this season.
The winger scored a stunning goal from 25 yards in the dying moments, adding to his opening goal which saw Spurs overcome a resilient West Ham in their 3-2 victory at Upton Park on Monday night.
The attacking midfielder has been in imperious form for the White Hart Lane outfit, scoring eight goals in the club's last six games and lifting it above rival Chelsea and Arsenal to third place in the Premier League standings.
The 23-year-old was, however, modest about his own contribution and insisted that the most important aim was for the team to secure European football.
"I'm just enjoying the football. The team's playing well which makes things easier. But it's not about me it's about the team," Bale told Sky Sports.
Tottenham is set to host Arsenal on Saturday.
"We know its going to be a massive game, they are a great team," Bale told Sky Sports. "We obviously want to get the three points to keep our Champions League hopes alive."
The 23-year-old Wales international fires Spurs to third place after another impressive performance and gives the club a massive boost ahead of the crucial north London derby Gareth Bale insists his individual performances will not overshadow Tottenham's bid to secure Champions League football this season.
The winger scored a stunning goal from 25 yards in the dying moments, adding to his opening goal which saw Spurs overcome a resilient West Ham in their 3-2 victory at Upton Park on Monday night.
The attacking midfielder has been in imperious form for the White Hart Lane outfit, scoring eight goals in the club's last six games and lifting it above rival Chelsea and Arsenal to third place in the Premier League standings.
The 23-year-old was, however, modest about his own contribution and insisted that the most important aim was for the team to secure European football.
"I'm just enjoying the football. The team's playing well which makes things easier. But it's not about me it's about the team," Bale told Sky Sports.
Tottenham is set to host Arsenal on Saturday.
"We know its going to be a massive game, they are a great team," Bale told Sky Sports. "We obviously want to get the three points to keep our Champions League hopes alive."
Bale should be Player of the Year, claims Villas-Boas
The winger scored his seventh and eighth goals in six games to help Spurs to a 3-2 win over local rivals West Ham on Monday night - the second a last-minute 30-yard winner Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has backed Gareth Bale to be voted Player of the Year after the winger’s stunning last-gasp winner in his side’s 3-2 win over West Ham.
Bale's stunning 30-yard strike in the 90th minute took his tally for the season to 15 Premier League goals and moved the north London club up to third in the table in the race for Champions League football next season.
Villas-Boas hailed Bale’s recent displays - he has scored eight goals in his last six appearances for Spurs - and backed the Welshman to be named the league’s best player at the end-of-season awards.
“I think he is [the player of the year],” said Villas-Boas after the game. "He's such a super talent, this season we've seen him in another level, he's made a difference every game."
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce agreed that Bale, who was PFA Player of the Year in 2011, is the in-form player in the country after the 23-year-old’s sensational performance at Upton Park.
“At the moment, there’s nobody doing more for a football club than Gareth Bale is for Tottenham," Allardyce said.
“It’s not just the number of goals he’s scoring but the quality as well. If you get too tight he skips past you and if you stand off him he does what he did tonight.
“No matter who you are, you’ve got to admire a goal like that from a player who is the big difference for Tottenham.”
The winger scored his seventh and eighth goals in six games to help Spurs to a 3-2 win over local rivals West Ham on Monday night - the second a last-minute 30-yard winner Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has backed Gareth Bale to be voted Player of the Year after the winger’s stunning last-gasp winner in his side’s 3-2 win over West Ham.
Bale's stunning 30-yard strike in the 90th minute took his tally for the season to 15 Premier League goals and moved the north London club up to third in the table in the race for Champions League football next season.
Villas-Boas hailed Bale’s recent displays - he has scored eight goals in his last six appearances for Spurs - and backed the Welshman to be named the league’s best player at the end-of-season awards.
“I think he is [the player of the year],” said Villas-Boas after the game. "He's such a super talent, this season we've seen him in another level, he's made a difference every game."
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce agreed that Bale, who was PFA Player of the Year in 2011, is the in-form player in the country after the 23-year-old’s sensational performance at Upton Park.
“At the moment, there’s nobody doing more for a football club than Gareth Bale is for Tottenham," Allardyce said.
“It’s not just the number of goals he’s scoring but the quality as well. If you get too tight he skips past you and if you stand off him he does what he did tonight.
“No matter who you are, you’ve got to admire a goal like that from a player who is the big difference for Tottenham.”
Schneiderlin extends Southampton contract until 2017
The 23-year-old has put pen to paper on a new four-year contract extension with Saints, citing the club's ambition for the future as key to his decision to commit
Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has penned a new four-year deal with the Premier League outfit.
The 23-year-old has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in the top flight, notching a league-high 102 tackles and the most interceptions of any player in Europe's top five leagues.
And Schneiderlin expressed his delight after confirming his new terms, citing the club's ambition for the future as key behind his decision.
"I am a very happy man," Schneiderlin told the club's official website.
"To commit my future to Southampton is a big thing because this club has big ambitions - and I have big ambitions as well.
"I wouldn’t have signed this contract if the club didn’t have a big project. When I spoke to the chairman and the manager, I knew they wanted to do something very good at this club and I want to be a part of that.
"My main focus now is to do a great job on the pitch so we achieve all of the ambitions that we have."
Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino was thrilled to tie the player to a new long-term deal and believes he will grow to become one of the most complete midfielders in the Premier League.
Saints manager Pochettino added: “I am delighted that the club has been able to extend Morgan’s contract.
"During my short time with Southampton, Morgan has shown what a capable player he is and has demonstrated his potential to become one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders.
"His work rate and determination make him an integral part of how we play, and so I am pleased he has been rewarded with a new long-term deal.
"Morgan has played a major part in the journey this club has been on over the past four years, and I am sure he will continue to develop as a player as we move towards our long-term ambitions."
The 23-year-old has put pen to paper on a new four-year contract extension with Saints, citing the club's ambition for the future as key to his decision to commit
Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has penned a new four-year deal with the Premier League outfit.
The 23-year-old has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in the top flight, notching a league-high 102 tackles and the most interceptions of any player in Europe's top five leagues.
And Schneiderlin expressed his delight after confirming his new terms, citing the club's ambition for the future as key behind his decision.
"I am a very happy man," Schneiderlin told the club's official website.
"To commit my future to Southampton is a big thing because this club has big ambitions - and I have big ambitions as well.
"I wouldn’t have signed this contract if the club didn’t have a big project. When I spoke to the chairman and the manager, I knew they wanted to do something very good at this club and I want to be a part of that.
"My main focus now is to do a great job on the pitch so we achieve all of the ambitions that we have."
Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino was thrilled to tie the player to a new long-term deal and believes he will grow to become one of the most complete midfielders in the Premier League.
Saints manager Pochettino added: “I am delighted that the club has been able to extend Morgan’s contract.
"During my short time with Southampton, Morgan has shown what a capable player he is and has demonstrated his potential to become one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders.
"His work rate and determination make him an integral part of how we play, and so I am pleased he has been rewarded with a new long-term deal.
"Morgan has played a major part in the journey this club has been on over the past four years, and I am sure he will continue to develop as a player as we move towards our long-term ambitions."
Suarez will not be investigated for stamp on Zenit defender
The Uruguayan appeared to stamp on Czech Republic international Tomas Hubocan during Liverpool's clash with the Russians on Thursday but won't face disciplinary action.Luis Suarez will not be investigated for an apparent stamp on Zenit defender Tomas Hubocan in Liverpool's clash with the Russians in the UEFA Europa League last week, according to the Associated Press.
The Uruguayan striker was pictured stepping on the Czech Republic international's back towards the end of the Reds' 3-1 win, which was not enough to take them through to the round of 16, as Zenit won the tie on away goals.
Referee Bjorn Kuipers, who is shortlisted to officiate at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, did not punish Suarez during the game, leaving UEFA open to taking retrospective action against him; however, a statement from the governing body to the AP claimed the "disciplinary unit has decided not to open a case."
Suarez bagged a double during the game with two well-taken free kicks, but he was unable to find a third goal that would have taken his side through to the next round.
The Uruguayan appeared to stamp on Czech Republic international Tomas Hubocan during Liverpool's clash with the Russians on Thursday but won't face disciplinary action.Luis Suarez will not be investigated for an apparent stamp on Zenit defender Tomas Hubocan in Liverpool's clash with the Russians in the UEFA Europa League last week, according to the Associated Press.
The Uruguayan striker was pictured stepping on the Czech Republic international's back towards the end of the Reds' 3-1 win, which was not enough to take them through to the round of 16, as Zenit won the tie on away goals.
Referee Bjorn Kuipers, who is shortlisted to officiate at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, did not punish Suarez during the game, leaving UEFA open to taking retrospective action against him; however, a statement from the governing body to the AP claimed the "disciplinary unit has decided not to open a case."
Suarez bagged a double during the game with two well-taken free kicks, but he was unable to find a third goal that would have taken his side through to the next round.
Arsenal announces half-year profit of 17.8 million pounds
Arsene Wenger's side has benefited financially from the sales of players such as Robin van Persie to Manchester United since the start of the season.Arsenal has announced that the club has recorded a pre-tax profit of 17.8 million pounds for the half-year ending in November 2012.
The figure was driven primarily by the value of player sales, including that of former striker Robin van Persie who left for Manchester United before the start of the season, with those departing the club raking in 42.5 million pounds for the club.
The accounts also highlight that the club has invested 40.9 million pounds in signing new players such as Olivier Giroud, Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla.
More cash was spent on contract extensions such as the ones signed by Kieran Gibbs, Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain earlier in the campaign, with chairman Peter Hill-Wood delighted at the financial progress that the club is making off the pitch.
"Our ability to compete at the top of the game here and in Europe is underpinned by our financial performance which gives the club strength and independence," Hill-Wood told the club's official website. "Our desire is to make everyone connected with Arsenal proud of the club. We know that comes through winning trophies but also through the way we do things and that will remain our constant guide."
The club's overall turnover dropped from 113.5 million pounds to 106 million pounds due to four less home fixture being played at the Emirates as the same period last year, while profits from Arsenal's property operation increased to 1.9 million pounds compared to 500,000 pounds in 2011.
Arsene Wenger's side has benefited financially from the sales of players such as Robin van Persie to Manchester United since the start of the season.Arsenal has announced that the club has recorded a pre-tax profit of 17.8 million pounds for the half-year ending in November 2012.
The figure was driven primarily by the value of player sales, including that of former striker Robin van Persie who left for Manchester United before the start of the season, with those departing the club raking in 42.5 million pounds for the club.
The accounts also highlight that the club has invested 40.9 million pounds in signing new players such as Olivier Giroud, Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla.
More cash was spent on contract extensions such as the ones signed by Kieran Gibbs, Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain earlier in the campaign, with chairman Peter Hill-Wood delighted at the financial progress that the club is making off the pitch.
"Our ability to compete at the top of the game here and in Europe is underpinned by our financial performance which gives the club strength and independence," Hill-Wood told the club's official website. "Our desire is to make everyone connected with Arsenal proud of the club. We know that comes through winning trophies but also through the way we do things and that will remain our constant guide."
The club's overall turnover dropped from 113.5 million pounds to 106 million pounds due to four less home fixture being played at the Emirates as the same period last year, while profits from Arsenal's property operation increased to 1.9 million pounds compared to 500,000 pounds in 2011.
Beckham has kept his technique, says Valbuena
The France international believes the veteran Paris Saint-Germain star still has the class he always possessed and will be a good addition to Ligue 1.Olympique de Marseille midfielder Mathieu Valbuena has hailed England legend David Beckham after his first appearance for Paris Saint-Germain.
The veteran midfielder made a brief cameo during Sunday's Classique, and the France international was impressed with his technique and vision during Carlo Ancelotti's side's 2-0 win.
"Beckham is class. I think he has always kept his technique, his beautiful passes," Valbuena told reporters. "He is a great player and he has not lost his technique. I think he will bring a lot to PSG."
"But I also think he will bring a lot humanely, whether on and off the pitch. I think this is important and good for the Ligue 1."
Carlo Ancelotti's side currently holds a three-point advantage over Olympique Lyonnais in the Ligue 1 title race following the victory, in which Beckham was involved with the sequence that led to Zlatan Ibrahimovic's game-icing goal.
The France international believes the veteran Paris Saint-Germain star still has the class he always possessed and will be a good addition to Ligue 1.Olympique de Marseille midfielder Mathieu Valbuena has hailed England legend David Beckham after his first appearance for Paris Saint-Germain.
The veteran midfielder made a brief cameo during Sunday's Classique, and the France international was impressed with his technique and vision during Carlo Ancelotti's side's 2-0 win.
"Beckham is class. I think he has always kept his technique, his beautiful passes," Valbuena told reporters. "He is a great player and he has not lost his technique. I think he will bring a lot to PSG."
"But I also think he will bring a lot humanely, whether on and off the pitch. I think this is important and good for the Ligue 1."
Carlo Ancelotti's side currently holds a three-point advantage over Olympique Lyonnais in the Ligue 1 title race following the victory, in which Beckham was involved with the sequence that led to Zlatan Ibrahimovic's game-icing goal.
Long not interested in leaving West Brom
The Republic of Ireland international has hailed the team spirit at the Hawthorns and is happy to stay, despite reported interest from former club Reading in January.Shane Long pledged his future to West Brom after being linked with moves to Liverpool and Reading during January.
The Republic of Ireland international has notched 17 goals in 58 games since moving from the Royals and sees no reason to leave the Baggies, who currently sit above both his former club and the Reds in the Premier League.
"Am I committed to West Brom for next season? Yes, I'm happy here. I like playing for the manager here. He is very good, and I'm learning a lot every week," Long told Sky Sports. "The lads are a good bunch, the family are happy up here, so I'm not looking to move on.
"I'm concentrating on this season and hopefully getting a few more goals before the summer and kicking on from there."
The 26-year-old Long has been featuring alongside Chelsea loanee Romelu Lukaku in recent weeks as the Belgian has hit a purple patch of form. Long is keen to see the 19-year-old return to the Midlands for another spell given the success they have had with him on board.
"Hopefully he will come back next season," Long said. "Chelsea paid 18 million pound for him. I thought they'd bring him in with a view to bringing him off the bench and giving him games and forcing his way into the team.
"I suppose with Demba Ba coming in there, rather than having Rom sitting in the reserves at Chelsea it is better to put him on loan to us, playing games every week and showing what he can do."
The Republic of Ireland international has hailed the team spirit at the Hawthorns and is happy to stay, despite reported interest from former club Reading in January.Shane Long pledged his future to West Brom after being linked with moves to Liverpool and Reading during January.
The Republic of Ireland international has notched 17 goals in 58 games since moving from the Royals and sees no reason to leave the Baggies, who currently sit above both his former club and the Reds in the Premier League.
"Am I committed to West Brom for next season? Yes, I'm happy here. I like playing for the manager here. He is very good, and I'm learning a lot every week," Long told Sky Sports. "The lads are a good bunch, the family are happy up here, so I'm not looking to move on.
"I'm concentrating on this season and hopefully getting a few more goals before the summer and kicking on from there."
The 26-year-old Long has been featuring alongside Chelsea loanee Romelu Lukaku in recent weeks as the Belgian has hit a purple patch of form. Long is keen to see the 19-year-old return to the Midlands for another spell given the success they have had with him on board.
"Hopefully he will come back next season," Long said. "Chelsea paid 18 million pound for him. I thought they'd bring him in with a view to bringing him off the bench and giving him games and forcing his way into the team.
"I suppose with Demba Ba coming in there, rather than having Rom sitting in the reserves at Chelsea it is better to put him on loan to us, playing games every week and showing what he can do."
Cahill: Chelsea defended 'way too much' against City
The England defender complained about the pressure he faced at the Etihad Stadium and believes the Blues' heavier fixture load was a factor in their sluggish performance.Gary Cahill lamented the amount of pressure that Chelsea’s defense was forced to face in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Manchester City.
Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez eventually broke through a stubborn Blues back line to leave the west London side just two points above fifth-placed Arsenal in the Premier League table.
"I thought they were on top for most of the game, they kept coming at us, coming at us," the England international told Chelsea TV. "I know I get paid to defend, but we were under the cosh for a lot of the game, way too much really.
"I don’t know why or what was wrong. I thought we didn’t create that many chances and we had to defend as a team a lot. I’d like to not be doing as much defending. Normally you probably get asked to do three or four important things in a game, against Man City I probably had 20-25."
Cahill also blamed a packed fixture list for the sluggish performance, with Chelsea facing Europa League performances, as well as having games piled up due to the Club World Cup campaign earlier in the season.
"I think they had a clear week and we have had a ridiculous amount of games," he continued. "Unfortunately it does take its toll. We were trying to recover from the game the other night and it told. They were a lot sharper and fresher than us.
"We haven’t had a clear week for what, 29 weeks, and you’re expected to go into games 100 percent fresh trying to push on for every competition. You don’t want to make excuses, but it’s a fact."
The England defender complained about the pressure he faced at the Etihad Stadium and believes the Blues' heavier fixture load was a factor in their sluggish performance.Gary Cahill lamented the amount of pressure that Chelsea’s defense was forced to face in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Manchester City.
Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez eventually broke through a stubborn Blues back line to leave the west London side just two points above fifth-placed Arsenal in the Premier League table.
"I thought they were on top for most of the game, they kept coming at us, coming at us," the England international told Chelsea TV. "I know I get paid to defend, but we were under the cosh for a lot of the game, way too much really.
"I don’t know why or what was wrong. I thought we didn’t create that many chances and we had to defend as a team a lot. I’d like to not be doing as much defending. Normally you probably get asked to do three or four important things in a game, against Man City I probably had 20-25."
Cahill also blamed a packed fixture list for the sluggish performance, with Chelsea facing Europa League performances, as well as having games piled up due to the Club World Cup campaign earlier in the season.
"I think they had a clear week and we have had a ridiculous amount of games," he continued. "Unfortunately it does take its toll. We were trying to recover from the game the other night and it told. They were a lot sharper and fresher than us.
"We haven’t had a clear week for what, 29 weeks, and you’re expected to go into games 100 percent fresh trying to push on for every competition. You don’t want to make excuses, but it’s a fact."
Fabregas: Real Madrid is very dangerous
The former Arsenal star is eagerly anticipating Tuesday's encounter and expects a difficult match at Camp Nou.Cesc Fabregas says Barcelona will have to be on top of its game when it faces Real Madrid in the second leg of their Copa del Rey Clasico.
The Catalans recorded a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg, and Fabregas is aware that los Blancos will pose a stern test in the return fixture, particularly given his side's labored form in recent weeks.
"It’s vital to score. We cannot go into the match and wait to see what happens. In last year’s Copa del Rey Clasico we had a good result from the away leg yet we were nearly eliminated from the competition," Fabregas told Barca TV.
"Real Madrid are very dangerous and in order to go through we’ll have to play the best football we’re capable of. We had our chances to make it 0-2 in Madrid [in the first leg]. In the return leg we have to be as effective as possible, because they are very effective. We have to be on target in front of goal if we want to get to the final."
The former Arsenal star is eagerly anticipating Tuesday's encounter and expects a difficult match at Camp Nou.Cesc Fabregas says Barcelona will have to be on top of its game when it faces Real Madrid in the second leg of their Copa del Rey Clasico.
The Catalans recorded a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg, and Fabregas is aware that los Blancos will pose a stern test in the return fixture, particularly given his side's labored form in recent weeks.
"It’s vital to score. We cannot go into the match and wait to see what happens. In last year’s Copa del Rey Clasico we had a good result from the away leg yet we were nearly eliminated from the competition," Fabregas told Barca TV.
"Real Madrid are very dangerous and in order to go through we’ll have to play the best football we’re capable of. We had our chances to make it 0-2 in Madrid [in the first leg]. In the return leg we have to be as effective as possible, because they are very effective. We have to be on target in front of goal if we want to get to the final."
Pepe: Varane will be best in the world
The 29-year-old defender believes his teammate can become one of the best in the world and says Los Blancos need to work as a team in order to beat Barcelona on Tuesday Real Madrid defender Pepe has tipped teammate Raphael Varane to become one of the most formidable center backs in world football.
The French youngster has garnered acclaim having produced a series of domineering displays at the heart of Los Blancos defense in 2013.
And Pepe has revealed he is helping the 19-year-old to ready himself for global success.
Speaking to AS, the 29-year-old said: "He is a very humble guy but he has tremendous quality. At the start of the season, I told him that within two years, he will be one of the best center backs in the world.
"I hope he continues with his humility and eagerness to learn because he is already doing so well. I think he can really progress and all of this experience he is getting can only be good for him."
Varane starred in Real's 1-1 draw with Barcelona in the Copa Del Rey last month and, speaking ahead of Tuesday's second leg, Pepe believes progression to the final hinges on the team operating as a unit.
He added: "We need to play as a team, like we try to do in every game.
"If we play that way, we will be in with a good chance of making the final. Playing collectively will boost our chances of winning. We need to remain true to our style of play and do everything the coach tells us to do."
The 29-year-old defender believes his teammate can become one of the best in the world and says Los Blancos need to work as a team in order to beat Barcelona on Tuesday Real Madrid defender Pepe has tipped teammate Raphael Varane to become one of the most formidable center backs in world football.
The French youngster has garnered acclaim having produced a series of domineering displays at the heart of Los Blancos defense in 2013.
And Pepe has revealed he is helping the 19-year-old to ready himself for global success.
Speaking to AS, the 29-year-old said: "He is a very humble guy but he has tremendous quality. At the start of the season, I told him that within two years, he will be one of the best center backs in the world.
"I hope he continues with his humility and eagerness to learn because he is already doing so well. I think he can really progress and all of this experience he is getting can only be good for him."
Varane starred in Real's 1-1 draw with Barcelona in the Copa Del Rey last month and, speaking ahead of Tuesday's second leg, Pepe believes progression to the final hinges on the team operating as a unit.
He added: "We need to play as a team, like we try to do in every game.
"If we play that way, we will be in with a good chance of making the final. Playing collectively will boost our chances of winning. We need to remain true to our style of play and do everything the coach tells us to do."
Top-four finish will be a battle, admits Chelsea boss Benitez
The Blues' push for second place took a serious blow in their 2-0 defeat to Manchester City but the Spanish manager insists that his side will fight until the end of the season Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez has acknowledged that his side is going to have to battle until the end if they are to finish in the top four this season and qualify for the next season's UEFA Champions League.
Benitez had hoped to push Manchester City for second place, but the Blues now find themselves looking over their shoulders after they were beaten 2-0 by Roberto Mancini's team on Sunday. Tottenham could leapfrog Chelsea into third by beating West Ham on Monday night and Arsenal trail Benitez's team by only two points.
"I said before the game, [if we win] it will still be a battle to the end," the Blues boss told Sky Sports. "Not winning is exactly the same situation. We have to carry on until the end."
Goals from Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez sealed Chelsea's defeat after Joe Hart saved a Frank Lampard penalty, denying the midfielder his 200th goal for the Stamford Bridge club.
Benitez admitted that the 50th-minute spot kick was a turning point despite his team's unspectacular performance until that point.
"The penalty is a crucial moment; we did not do as well as we were expecting but the penalty could have changed everything," Benitez said. "It was a good penalty and a good save. Ten minutes later, they score. Then we have to take a risk and it is clear they are a good team."
The Blues' push for second place took a serious blow in their 2-0 defeat to Manchester City but the Spanish manager insists that his side will fight until the end of the season Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez has acknowledged that his side is going to have to battle until the end if they are to finish in the top four this season and qualify for the next season's UEFA Champions League.
Benitez had hoped to push Manchester City for second place, but the Blues now find themselves looking over their shoulders after they were beaten 2-0 by Roberto Mancini's team on Sunday. Tottenham could leapfrog Chelsea into third by beating West Ham on Monday night and Arsenal trail Benitez's team by only two points.
"I said before the game, [if we win] it will still be a battle to the end," the Blues boss told Sky Sports. "Not winning is exactly the same situation. We have to carry on until the end."
Goals from Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez sealed Chelsea's defeat after Joe Hart saved a Frank Lampard penalty, denying the midfielder his 200th goal for the Stamford Bridge club.
Benitez admitted that the 50th-minute spot kick was a turning point despite his team's unspectacular performance until that point.
"The penalty is a crucial moment; we did not do as well as we were expecting but the penalty could have changed everything," Benitez said. "It was a good penalty and a good save. Ten minutes later, they score. Then we have to take a risk and it is clear they are a good team."
Swansea forward Dyer disappointed to miss out on hat trick despite Capital One Cup victory
The 25-year-old was denied a third goal in the 5-0 rout after Jonathan de Guzman refused to pass over penalty-taking duties, but he hailed the Welsh club's "massive" achievement.Nathan Dyer has admitted that he was disappointed not to score a hat trick in Swansea's 5-0 Capital One Cup final win over Bradford after Jonathan de Guzman refused to allow him to take a penalty.
After scoring a goal either side of halftime, Dyer had the opportunity to secure his third tally, but De Guzman declined to pass on the penalty-taking duties after a lengthy dispute and went on to calmly convert from the spot.
When asked what it was like to score twice in the final, Dyer told Sky Sports: "It was brilliant. I haven't scored for a while so to get two goals today, obviously I wanted the hat trick with the penalty.
"Obviously, I had to score on a historical moment like this, and I thought I should have gotten the ball, but it wasn't meant to be and I passed it on and that's the way it went."
Swansea's cup win is the first major trophy in club history, which also secured Europa League qualification for Michael Laudrup's team. Dyer praised the club's progress from the lower reaches of English football and hailed a "massive" day for the city as a whole.
"I think Swansea City have come so far as a club and a city," Dyer said. "For us to win this cup final is massive for us. The players have worked so hard all week, and it's just a great day."
The 25-year-old was denied a third goal in the 5-0 rout after Jonathan de Guzman refused to pass over penalty-taking duties, but he hailed the Welsh club's "massive" achievement.Nathan Dyer has admitted that he was disappointed not to score a hat trick in Swansea's 5-0 Capital One Cup final win over Bradford after Jonathan de Guzman refused to allow him to take a penalty.
After scoring a goal either side of halftime, Dyer had the opportunity to secure his third tally, but De Guzman declined to pass on the penalty-taking duties after a lengthy dispute and went on to calmly convert from the spot.
When asked what it was like to score twice in the final, Dyer told Sky Sports: "It was brilliant. I haven't scored for a while so to get two goals today, obviously I wanted the hat trick with the penalty.
"Obviously, I had to score on a historical moment like this, and I thought I should have gotten the ball, but it wasn't meant to be and I passed it on and that's the way it went."
Swansea's cup win is the first major trophy in club history, which also secured Europa League qualification for Michael Laudrup's team. Dyer praised the club's progress from the lower reaches of English football and hailed a "massive" day for the city as a whole.
"I think Swansea City have come so far as a club and a city," Dyer said. "For us to win this cup final is massive for us. The players have worked so hard all week, and it's just a great day."
Sissoko a better partner for Cisse than Ba, claims Pardew
The Frenchman netted his third league goal for the Magpies in just his second appearance and was hailed as the perfect replacement for the now-Chelsea attacker.Alan Pardew believes that Moussa Sissoko is a better attacking partner for Papiss Cisse at Newcastle than Demba Ba on the evidence of the Frenchman's start to life on Tyneside.
Ba moved to Chelsea for 7.5 million pounds in January after netting 13 goals in 20 games, but Pardew believes his attack has more balance now that the former Toulouse man has replaced the Senegal international.
"I've been saying for a long time since I arrived at this club that we've never really had a natural No. 10 because in the modern game, you need to have that," Pardew said. "Moussa came in and is much better at that [than Ba]. Obviously Demba's a striker, he plays that No. 9 role for Chelsea, but we have Papiss.
"It gives us different options, a bit more freedom to attack thanks to his natural ability and defensive attitude, we need it. I think it's a better combination than what we had before."
Pardew believes that Sunday's 4-2 win over Southampton has set his side up for a late-season tilt at the top half of the table and hailed the 35-yard Cisse strike that had given the Toon a halftime lead.
"Look at the league table and we've now put outselves in a position to attack 10th, and that was why it was important to get victory today," Pardew said. "We should attack the top 10 now and we can with this team, it's a considerable difference to six weeks ago, with people returning and the new players.
"[Cisse's goal] reminded me of that goal of the season from Alan [Shearer against Everton] many years ago here, a dipping volley. As soon as he hit it you sensed it was in and of course the net ripples. He's got that in him, Papiss, he's done it before but it was a really fantastic one today."
The Frenchman netted his third league goal for the Magpies in just his second appearance and was hailed as the perfect replacement for the now-Chelsea attacker.Alan Pardew believes that Moussa Sissoko is a better attacking partner for Papiss Cisse at Newcastle than Demba Ba on the evidence of the Frenchman's start to life on Tyneside.
Ba moved to Chelsea for 7.5 million pounds in January after netting 13 goals in 20 games, but Pardew believes his attack has more balance now that the former Toulouse man has replaced the Senegal international.
"I've been saying for a long time since I arrived at this club that we've never really had a natural No. 10 because in the modern game, you need to have that," Pardew said. "Moussa came in and is much better at that [than Ba]. Obviously Demba's a striker, he plays that No. 9 role for Chelsea, but we have Papiss.
"It gives us different options, a bit more freedom to attack thanks to his natural ability and defensive attitude, we need it. I think it's a better combination than what we had before."
Pardew believes that Sunday's 4-2 win over Southampton has set his side up for a late-season tilt at the top half of the table and hailed the 35-yard Cisse strike that had given the Toon a halftime lead.
"Look at the league table and we've now put outselves in a position to attack 10th, and that was why it was important to get victory today," Pardew said. "We should attack the top 10 now and we can with this team, it's a considerable difference to six weeks ago, with people returning and the new players.
"[Cisse's goal] reminded me of that goal of the season from Alan [Shearer against Everton] many years ago here, a dipping volley. As soon as he hit it you sensed it was in and of course the net ripples. He's got that in him, Papiss, he's done it before but it was a really fantastic one today."
මුගටියා;14535545 said:Manchester United face battle with Pep Guardiola over Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski
Sir Alex Ferguson is facing a battle with Pep Guardiola over Robert Lewandowski after the incoming Bayern Munich coach signalled his intention to pursue the Borussia Dortmund forward at the end of the season.
Manchester United manager Ferguson has maintained an interest in Lewandowski since identifying the Pole as an alternative to Robin van Persie last summer.
Ferguson and assistant manager Mike Phelan watched Lewandowski in action for the German champions against Manchester City earlier this season, with Jurgen Klopp, the Dortmund coach, admitting that United are keen to sign the striker.
Guardiola’s appointment as Bayern manager from the end of this campaign has seen the Bundesliga giants emerge as serious contenders for Lewandowki, however.
The 24-year-old has made it clear to Dortmund that he will not sign an extension to his contract this summer, forcing the club to decide whether to sell or allow him to leave as a free agent in 2014.
United took advantage of a similar contract situation involving Shinji Kagawa last summer to sign the Japanese midfielder from Dortmund.
Source: The Telegraph
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