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..::Football II::..
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Jonathan Dos Santos linked to Liverpool move
The Mexican will reevaluate his situation at Barcelona next season and reports out of England suggest Liverpool may be interested in the midfielder Barcelona midfielder Jonathan Dos Santos knows how important next season is to him as the World Cup in Brazil looms and his declarations last week that he needs more minutes has sparked renewed interest in his services.
“Next year is very important for me,” said the younger Dos Santos brother in an interview with Esports COPE last Wednesday. “I don’t want to become stale, I want to play.”
The Mexican added that he will consider his position with the Catalan club at the end of the season and speak to the board about what the future holds for him in Barcelona.
“I didn’t expected to play so little,” admitted Dos Santos, who has featured for Barca in just two league games this season.
In the wake of the comments, UK newspaper Metro ran a story on Friday that Liverpool has been following Dos Santos’ progress “for months” and stated that the Premier League club is the front-runner to capture his signature in the offseason.
The Mexican press has speculated in recent weeks that Sevilla, Mallorca, Olympiakos, Tottenham, Chelsea and Everton are all potential destinations for Dos Santos.
The 22-year-old was included in Barcelona’s 21-man squad to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final on Tuesday in Germany.
The Mexican will reevaluate his situation at Barcelona next season and reports out of England suggest Liverpool may be interested in the midfielder Barcelona midfielder Jonathan Dos Santos knows how important next season is to him as the World Cup in Brazil looms and his declarations last week that he needs more minutes has sparked renewed interest in his services.
“Next year is very important for me,” said the younger Dos Santos brother in an interview with Esports COPE last Wednesday. “I don’t want to become stale, I want to play.”
The Mexican added that he will consider his position with the Catalan club at the end of the season and speak to the board about what the future holds for him in Barcelona.
“I didn’t expected to play so little,” admitted Dos Santos, who has featured for Barca in just two league games this season.
In the wake of the comments, UK newspaper Metro ran a story on Friday that Liverpool has been following Dos Santos’ progress “for months” and stated that the Premier League club is the front-runner to capture his signature in the offseason.
The Mexican press has speculated in recent weeks that Sevilla, Mallorca, Olympiakos, Tottenham, Chelsea and Everton are all potential destinations for Dos Santos.
The 22-year-old was included in Barcelona’s 21-man squad to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final on Tuesday in Germany.
Mother blames Suarez after her son is bitten at school
The concerned parent believes her child was the victim of a copycat attack after the Liverpool striker sunk his teeth into Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic on Sunday
A mother from Wales has blamed Liverpool striker Luis Suarez after her son was bitten at school by another student.
The Uruguay international has been charged with violent conduct by the Football Association and fined by his club after biting Branislav Ivanovic during Sunday's 2-2 draw with Chelsea.
The concerned parent rang BBC Radio Five Live claiming her son was the victim of a copycat attack.
"I had a phone call from the school headmistress earlier this morning saying that my son had been involved in a biting incident with another child and it appears to be a copycat of the Luis Suarez incident yesterday," she said. "I think if this [Suarez biting Ivanovic] hadn't have happened yesterday then my son wouldn't have been bitten today."
Suarez will not face criminal charges over the incident as Ivanovic did not lodge a complaint to the police.
The mother, identified as "Sharon from North Wales," believes that because Suarez was not reprimanded immediately after the incident, children have been given the idea that they too would not be punished for biting.
"He [Suarez] shouldn't have done what he did. He is an adult. You expect biting from children in nursery not from professional players, especially somebody with the high status that Suarez has got," she said. "These children are 10, 11 years old. What Luis Suarez did yesterday, he didn't even get sent off. He may have been fined now ... but when my son was bitten this morning, that other child did not know that Luis Suarez was going to get that punishment.
"So as far as this other child may perceive, Luis Suarez has bitten somebody and he's had no comeuppance for it."
The concerned parent believes her child was the victim of a copycat attack after the Liverpool striker sunk his teeth into Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic on Sunday
A mother from Wales has blamed Liverpool striker Luis Suarez after her son was bitten at school by another student.
The Uruguay international has been charged with violent conduct by the Football Association and fined by his club after biting Branislav Ivanovic during Sunday's 2-2 draw with Chelsea.
The concerned parent rang BBC Radio Five Live claiming her son was the victim of a copycat attack.
"I had a phone call from the school headmistress earlier this morning saying that my son had been involved in a biting incident with another child and it appears to be a copycat of the Luis Suarez incident yesterday," she said. "I think if this [Suarez biting Ivanovic] hadn't have happened yesterday then my son wouldn't have been bitten today."
Suarez will not face criminal charges over the incident as Ivanovic did not lodge a complaint to the police.
The mother, identified as "Sharon from North Wales," believes that because Suarez was not reprimanded immediately after the incident, children have been given the idea that they too would not be punished for biting.
"He [Suarez] shouldn't have done what he did. He is an adult. You expect biting from children in nursery not from professional players, especially somebody with the high status that Suarez has got," she said. "These children are 10, 11 years old. What Luis Suarez did yesterday, he didn't even get sent off. He may have been fined now ... but when my son was bitten this morning, that other child did not know that Luis Suarez was going to get that punishment.
"So as far as this other child may perceive, Luis Suarez has bitten somebody and he's had no comeuppance for it."
Muamba joins Mulumbu, Frimpong, Cole and Zaha at charity tournament
The ex-Bolton midfielder will be alongside Premier League and Football League stars at this year's IPAY2PLAY tournament in an effort to raise money for a variety of good causes Fabrice Muamba will join the likes of Emmanuel Frimpong, Youssuf Mulumbu, Carlton Cole and Wilfried Zaha at a this year's IPAY2PLAY charity tournament.
The tournament, which takes place at Wembley's Ark Academy, is organized to raise money for numerous charitable causes.
Muamba, the former Bolton midfielder, says he is delighted to offer his support alongside a host of Premier League and Football League professionals.
"I am extremely happy to be able to lend my support to such a great cause at what I know will be a brilliant event," he told reporters.
Professional athletes and other celebrities help the project tackle issues such as HIV education, clean water and community building throughout regions of Africa. All participants donate a fee to enter the competition.
Papa Agyemang, the founder of TEAM IMANI who organize the tournmant, said: "We are overjoyed that Fabrice is able to come down and support IPAY2PLAY this year.
"It is great to see someone of his status support such an event which uses a sport that he loves to raise funds and awareness for the people who need it most."
The ex-Bolton midfielder will be alongside Premier League and Football League stars at this year's IPAY2PLAY tournament in an effort to raise money for a variety of good causes Fabrice Muamba will join the likes of Emmanuel Frimpong, Youssuf Mulumbu, Carlton Cole and Wilfried Zaha at a this year's IPAY2PLAY charity tournament.
The tournament, which takes place at Wembley's Ark Academy, is organized to raise money for numerous charitable causes.
Muamba, the former Bolton midfielder, says he is delighted to offer his support alongside a host of Premier League and Football League professionals.
"I am extremely happy to be able to lend my support to such a great cause at what I know will be a brilliant event," he told reporters.
Professional athletes and other celebrities help the project tackle issues such as HIV education, clean water and community building throughout regions of Africa. All participants donate a fee to enter the competition.
Papa Agyemang, the founder of TEAM IMANI who organize the tournmant, said: "We are overjoyed that Fabrice is able to come down and support IPAY2PLAY this year.
"It is great to see someone of his status support such an event which uses a sport that he loves to raise funds and awareness for the people who need it most."
Di Maria warns of Dortmund danger
The Argentine winger believes the Spanish power will be once again subjected to an arduous 90 minutes in Germany in this week's Champions League semifinal first leg.
Angel di Maria has warned that Real Madrid will need to be at the top of its game to overcome Borussia Dortmund in Wednesday's Champions League clash.
Los Blancos travel to Signal Iduna Park this week as their quest for La Decima intensifies, but the Argentina winger has warned that Jurgen Klopp's side is likely to pose a significant threat - just as it did during the group stage.
"We have two very important matches against Borussia Dortmund and we know it will not be easy. We struggled against them in the group stage and I believe that it will be the same this time," Di Maria told the club's official website. "They are a very similar team to us, with a very strong counterattack, and they are also on a good run of form. We have to do things at 100 percent to get through the tie."
Meanwhile, the Argentine also praised Madrid's German duo of Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira, and believes the midfield stars' development is key to their future success.
"They have both improved tremendously and have developed well in every way. They are both playing the best football of their careers so far," Di Maria said. "Sami is doing really well and the coach really acknowledges that. Mesut is getting a lot of assists and both of them are vital to us."
The Argentine winger believes the Spanish power will be once again subjected to an arduous 90 minutes in Germany in this week's Champions League semifinal first leg.
Angel di Maria has warned that Real Madrid will need to be at the top of its game to overcome Borussia Dortmund in Wednesday's Champions League clash.
Los Blancos travel to Signal Iduna Park this week as their quest for La Decima intensifies, but the Argentina winger has warned that Jurgen Klopp's side is likely to pose a significant threat - just as it did during the group stage.
"We have two very important matches against Borussia Dortmund and we know it will not be easy. We struggled against them in the group stage and I believe that it will be the same this time," Di Maria told the club's official website. "They are a very similar team to us, with a very strong counterattack, and they are also on a good run of form. We have to do things at 100 percent to get through the tie."
Meanwhile, the Argentine also praised Madrid's German duo of Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira, and believes the midfield stars' development is key to their future success.
"They have both improved tremendously and have developed well in every way. They are both playing the best football of their careers so far," Di Maria said. "Sami is doing really well and the coach really acknowledges that. Mesut is getting a lot of assists and both of them are vital to us."
Clattenburg to referee Chelsea for first time since being cleared of racism allegations
The referee was caught up in a race row in October following the fiery encounter between the Blues and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge, where he will return on Sunday.
Mark Clattenburg will referee Chelsea for the first time since the Football Association dismissed claims that he racially abused John Obi Mikel.
The FA ruled that the 38-year-old had no case to answer after Ramires accused the official of insulting the Nigerian during the Blues' 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United on Oct. 28.
Mikel was subsequently fined 60,000 pounds and banned for three matches after threatening Clattenburg in the officials' changing room following the ill-tempered clash, in which Fernando Torres and Branislav Ivanovic were shown red cards and Chicharito scored the winner from an apparent offside position.
Clattenburg returned to action days after being cleared by the FA but has not officiated a Chelsea match since. He will finally return to Stamford Bridge on Sunday as the top-four-chasing Blues host Swansea City.
The referee was caught up in a race row in October following the fiery encounter between the Blues and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge, where he will return on Sunday.
Mark Clattenburg will referee Chelsea for the first time since the Football Association dismissed claims that he racially abused John Obi Mikel.
The FA ruled that the 38-year-old had no case to answer after Ramires accused the official of insulting the Nigerian during the Blues' 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United on Oct. 28.
Mikel was subsequently fined 60,000 pounds and banned for three matches after threatening Clattenburg in the officials' changing room following the ill-tempered clash, in which Fernando Torres and Branislav Ivanovic were shown red cards and Chicharito scored the winner from an apparent offside position.
Clattenburg returned to action days after being cleared by the FA but has not officiated a Chelsea match since. He will finally return to Stamford Bridge on Sunday as the top-four-chasing Blues host Swansea City.
Juventus fined 30,000 euros following Boateng incident
The Ghanaian was racially abused by Bianconeri supporters on Sunday and the Italian authorities have moved quickly to punish the club.Juventus have been fined 30,000 euros after AC Milan's Kevin-Prince Boateng was the victim of racist abuse in Sunday's clash between the two sides.
The Rossoneri midfielder had been targeted by Bianconeri supporters during the warm-up and as a result the Serie A disciplinary committee has moved quickly to punish the club.
Juve, meanwhile, has released an anti-racism statement regarding the incident, stressing its disgust at the actions of a minority of its fans.
"Juventus Football Club reminds its fans and the media that it is heavily involved in projects dedicated to integration and is against any form of racism or discrimination," a statement on their official website read. "Such behavior does not represent the position of the club, its millions of fans or even the vast majority of spectators at Juventus Stadium, which is something unique in Italian football.
"This statement is not in any way intended to contest the decision of the sporting judge."
The Ghanaian was racially abused by Bianconeri supporters on Sunday and the Italian authorities have moved quickly to punish the club.Juventus have been fined 30,000 euros after AC Milan's Kevin-Prince Boateng was the victim of racist abuse in Sunday's clash between the two sides.
The Rossoneri midfielder had been targeted by Bianconeri supporters during the warm-up and as a result the Serie A disciplinary committee has moved quickly to punish the club.
Juve, meanwhile, has released an anti-racism statement regarding the incident, stressing its disgust at the actions of a minority of its fans.
"Juventus Football Club reminds its fans and the media that it is heavily involved in projects dedicated to integration and is against any form of racism or discrimination," a statement on their official website read. "Such behavior does not represent the position of the club, its millions of fans or even the vast majority of spectators at Juventus Stadium, which is something unique in Italian football.
"This statement is not in any way intended to contest the decision of the sporting judge."
FIFA president Blatter has Twitter account hacked
The FIFA chief began sending incriminating messages online before it was revealed that the 'Syrian Electronic Army' had hijacked his account as well as that of the World Cup.
FIFA president Sepp Blatter had his Twitter account hacked Monday, with several incriminating messages being posted from his official account including one that he had resigned due to corruption. The official World Cup account was also hijacked, with it confirming Blatter's fake assertions.
After nearly half an hour of increasingly unlikely statements, it was revealed that a group called the 'Syrian Electronic Army,' supportive of the country's leader, Bashar Al-Assad, had taken over the account. The group has hacked several high-profile Twitter users in recent weeks to advance its political agenda.
Blatter's account began by asking: "So what if I took money from Qatari prince? I am the family's bread earner," before declaring himself unrepentant.
"His excellency the emir of Qatar has been the most generous figure I have even met," it wrote. "I do not apologize for my decision. I have done the best for FIFA. For almost 15 years I have toiled for this organization.
"I have recommended his excellency prince Ali Bin Al Hussein of Jordan as my successor. The royal family has done much for FIFA, I am sure Jordan will make an excellent host for 2030."
The official World Cup account was made to announce: "Sepp Blatter has been investigated for multiple charges of bribery. E-mails between the Qatari foreign ministry and Mr Blatter were found to conspire against some teams."
The FIFA chief began sending incriminating messages online before it was revealed that the 'Syrian Electronic Army' had hijacked his account as well as that of the World Cup.
FIFA president Sepp Blatter had his Twitter account hacked Monday, with several incriminating messages being posted from his official account including one that he had resigned due to corruption. The official World Cup account was also hijacked, with it confirming Blatter's fake assertions.
After nearly half an hour of increasingly unlikely statements, it was revealed that a group called the 'Syrian Electronic Army,' supportive of the country's leader, Bashar Al-Assad, had taken over the account. The group has hacked several high-profile Twitter users in recent weeks to advance its political agenda.
Blatter's account began by asking: "So what if I took money from Qatari prince? I am the family's bread earner," before declaring himself unrepentant.
"His excellency the emir of Qatar has been the most generous figure I have even met," it wrote. "I do not apologize for my decision. I have done the best for FIFA. For almost 15 years I have toiled for this organization.
"I have recommended his excellency prince Ali Bin Al Hussein of Jordan as my successor. The royal family has done much for FIFA, I am sure Jordan will make an excellent host for 2030."
The official World Cup account was made to announce: "Sepp Blatter has been investigated for multiple charges of bribery. E-mails between the Qatari foreign ministry and Mr Blatter were found to conspire against some teams."
Lewandowski fit to face Real Madrid
The striker picked up a knock during his side's Bundesliga win on Saturday, but has now assured fans he will be ready for Wednesday's European encounter.
Robert Lewandowski has handed Borussia Dortmund a timely boost by revealing he will be fit to face Real Madrid.
Die Borussen take on los Blancos in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal on Wednesday and Lewandowski, who has scored in each of his last 12 competitive matches, is certain he will be ready for the crunch European encounter.
"I wanted to reassure you that my appearance on Wednesday is not endangered," the Poland forward posted on his Facebook page.
"The muscle is bruised but I'll be fit for the match against Real!"
Lewandowski had earlier complained about pain in his thigh after his team's 2-0 victory against Mainz and originally thought he would struggle to make BVB's European tie.
"I felt pain in the last minute. All I can do is apply ice to the thigh and hope it doesn't swell anymore. It's touch and go whether I play on Wednesday," he was quoted as saying on UEFA.com.
Dortmund meets Jose Mourinho's men on April 24 at Signal Iduna Park.
The striker picked up a knock during his side's Bundesliga win on Saturday, but has now assured fans he will be ready for Wednesday's European encounter.
Robert Lewandowski has handed Borussia Dortmund a timely boost by revealing he will be fit to face Real Madrid.
Die Borussen take on los Blancos in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal on Wednesday and Lewandowski, who has scored in each of his last 12 competitive matches, is certain he will be ready for the crunch European encounter.
"I wanted to reassure you that my appearance on Wednesday is not endangered," the Poland forward posted on his Facebook page.
"The muscle is bruised but I'll be fit for the match against Real!"
Lewandowski had earlier complained about pain in his thigh after his team's 2-0 victory against Mainz and originally thought he would struggle to make BVB's European tie.
"I felt pain in the last minute. All I can do is apply ice to the thigh and hope it doesn't swell anymore. It's touch and go whether I play on Wednesday," he was quoted as saying on UEFA.com.
Dortmund meets Jose Mourinho's men on April 24 at Signal Iduna Park.
Galliani: AC Milan has saved 40-50 million euros on wages
The Rossoneri president says the club's dealings in the transfer market have ensured it is now in a better financial state.AC Milan president Adriano Galliani has revealed the club has saved 40-50 million euros on wages in 2013.
The Rossoneri announced a loss of 6.9 million euros in 2012 which was a huge improvement from 67 million euros in 2011 and 70 million euros in 2010.
The entrepreneur says that the club is no longer losing as much money as it has been in the past by cutting down on the wage bill and becoming smarter in the transfer market.
"We will save around 40-50 million euros on the players' wages in 2013," the 68-year-old told reporters at the club's annual general shareholders meeting. "We paid for [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva's wages until August. The players who were out of contract were paid until June. The sale of [Alexandre] Pato allowed us to sign a much younger player than Tevez. On a patrimonial level, it's much better to have Balotelli.
"If we had sold Pato in January 2012, then Tevez would have joined Milan and then perhaps we would have won the Scudetto. Pato left Milan this year and then Balotelli joined us. In hindsight it was the right thing to do. Compared to when we sold Shevchenko and Kaka, we have now reduced our wages to a point where we won't lose as much money as before."
In relation to Financial Fair Play rulings coming into force next season, the announcement puts the club in a much stronger position to compete with Europe's elite clubs than it was a few years ago.
"In terms of FFP, we now have a positive balance sheet because we can deduct the costs from the youth sector and stadium," he said. "We own all our players except Bojan and [Cristian] Zapata. And we own half of [Kevin] Constant."
The Rossoneri president says the club's dealings in the transfer market have ensured it is now in a better financial state.AC Milan president Adriano Galliani has revealed the club has saved 40-50 million euros on wages in 2013.
The Rossoneri announced a loss of 6.9 million euros in 2012 which was a huge improvement from 67 million euros in 2011 and 70 million euros in 2010.
The entrepreneur says that the club is no longer losing as much money as it has been in the past by cutting down on the wage bill and becoming smarter in the transfer market.
"We will save around 40-50 million euros on the players' wages in 2013," the 68-year-old told reporters at the club's annual general shareholders meeting. "We paid for [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva's wages until August. The players who were out of contract were paid until June. The sale of [Alexandre] Pato allowed us to sign a much younger player than Tevez. On a patrimonial level, it's much better to have Balotelli.
"If we had sold Pato in January 2012, then Tevez would have joined Milan and then perhaps we would have won the Scudetto. Pato left Milan this year and then Balotelli joined us. In hindsight it was the right thing to do. Compared to when we sold Shevchenko and Kaka, we have now reduced our wages to a point where we won't lose as much money as before."
In relation to Financial Fair Play rulings coming into force next season, the announcement puts the club in a much stronger position to compete with Europe's elite clubs than it was a few years ago.
"In terms of FFP, we now have a positive balance sheet because we can deduct the costs from the youth sector and stadium," he said. "We own all our players except Bojan and [Cristian] Zapata. And we own half of [Kevin] Constant."
Wenger: Arsenal still managing Wilshere ankle pain
The Gunners boss has opted to give the England midfielder less game time in order to aid his full recovery from the injury which necessitated his being dropped to the bench Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admits that Jack Wilshere is still suffering from an ankle injury after he dropped back to the bench in the team's 1-0 win at Fulham.
Wilshere played most of the previous 0-0 draw against Everton but could need further surgery, which makes him a doubt for England's end-of-season friendlies.
"Jack was a bit in pain after the game," Wenger told reporters. "He has a break until next Sunday and that is different so he will be available.
"There is no basic ankle problem. I just felt we had to stop him because of inflammation last time and I just felt to give him three games in six days would be too much.
"I do not want to go into a vicious circle again when I play, I play him, I play him and then suddenly... I think coming back after six weeks out, two games in a week was enough.
"Jack has a game that is based on dribbling so they are more exposed to kicks than players who are just passing players and you don't want him to lose that because that is his strength."
The Gunners boss has opted to give the England midfielder less game time in order to aid his full recovery from the injury which necessitated his being dropped to the bench Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admits that Jack Wilshere is still suffering from an ankle injury after he dropped back to the bench in the team's 1-0 win at Fulham.
Wilshere played most of the previous 0-0 draw against Everton but could need further surgery, which makes him a doubt for England's end-of-season friendlies.
"Jack was a bit in pain after the game," Wenger told reporters. "He has a break until next Sunday and that is different so he will be available.
"There is no basic ankle problem. I just felt we had to stop him because of inflammation last time and I just felt to give him three games in six days would be too much.
"I do not want to go into a vicious circle again when I play, I play him, I play him and then suddenly... I think coming back after six weeks out, two games in a week was enough.
"Jack has a game that is based on dribbling so they are more exposed to kicks than players who are just passing players and you don't want him to lose that because that is his strength."
Benitez: Excessive added time cost Chelsea victory
Luis Suarez headed in a 97th-minute equalizer at Anfield after Eden Hazard's penalty looked to be the winner and the former Reds manager was shocked at the amount of injury time.Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez was left fuming over the six minutes of added time which led to Luis Suarez's equalizer in the 2-2 draw at Liverpool.
The former Reds boss thought that his new side would snatch all three points on his return to Anfield after Eden Hazard's second-half penalty but the Uruguayan leveled after the 96th minute to steal the headlines.
Benitez, whose hopes of a top-four finish were damaged by the late strike, says that he cannot understand from where the six minutes came.
"I was disappointed with the late goal conceded," he told the club's official website, "especially because I can't understand why there were six minutes and 45 seconds [stoppage time] - a very strange decision.
"Some games you have six substitutions and they say three or four minutes. In this case, six minutes, a throw-in for us and the game was over - and still 45 seconds more. It is difficult to explain."
Former Chelsea player Daniel Sturridge set up Suarez's equalizer with a cross from the right, having hit the post in the game earlier on, and Benitez admitted that his side's defending could have been better.
"We have to analyze why we didn't stop the cross and why Liverpool scored but still, in the normal circumstances, we would have finished the game having won against a good team," he lamented. "They were pushing but we were defending well and had our chances in counterattack in terms of dangerous situations.
"Sometimes when they try to explain added time they put substitutions as 30 seconds, sometimes they say 40 seconds, sometimes one minute - but every single game you have three or four minutes added, five minutes if it is a lengthy incident - but six minutes 45 seconds?"
Luis Suarez headed in a 97th-minute equalizer at Anfield after Eden Hazard's penalty looked to be the winner and the former Reds manager was shocked at the amount of injury time.Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez was left fuming over the six minutes of added time which led to Luis Suarez's equalizer in the 2-2 draw at Liverpool.
The former Reds boss thought that his new side would snatch all three points on his return to Anfield after Eden Hazard's second-half penalty but the Uruguayan leveled after the 96th minute to steal the headlines.
Benitez, whose hopes of a top-four finish were damaged by the late strike, says that he cannot understand from where the six minutes came.
"I was disappointed with the late goal conceded," he told the club's official website, "especially because I can't understand why there were six minutes and 45 seconds [stoppage time] - a very strange decision.
"Some games you have six substitutions and they say three or four minutes. In this case, six minutes, a throw-in for us and the game was over - and still 45 seconds more. It is difficult to explain."
Former Chelsea player Daniel Sturridge set up Suarez's equalizer with a cross from the right, having hit the post in the game earlier on, and Benitez admitted that his side's defending could have been better.
"We have to analyze why we didn't stop the cross and why Liverpool scored but still, in the normal circumstances, we would have finished the game having won against a good team," he lamented. "They were pushing but we were defending well and had our chances in counterattack in terms of dangerous situations.
"Sometimes when they try to explain added time they put substitutions as 30 seconds, sometimes they say 40 seconds, sometimes one minute - but every single game you have three or four minutes added, five minutes if it is a lengthy incident - but six minutes 45 seconds?"
Allegri: Milan not worried by Fiorentina
A 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Turin on Sunday night has piled the pressure on the Rossoneri, who now have the resurgent Viola breathing down their necks.AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri remains confident that his side will qualify for next season's Champions League despite seeing their lead over fourth-placed Fiorentina cut to a solitary point on Sunday.
The Viola recorded a remarkable 4-3 win over Torino at the Artemio Franchi during the afternoon, while the Rossoneri lost 1-0 to league leader Juventus in the evening kickoff in Turin.
With five rounds of the season remaining, Italy's third and final Champions League berth is clearly now well and truly up for grabs, but Allegri is backing his side to keep Fiorentina at bay.
"We are not worried," the Rossoneri boss told Sky Sport Italia. "We have lost our first game of the year. Now we must try to do well in the next games to hold onto third place.
"We know that Fiorentina are a good side. We threw away a match point by not winning in Florence despite being 2-0 up. Now our calendar becomes easier. I am confident."
However, Allegri was still left counting the cost of Milan's misfortune in Turin, with the Rossoneri losing both Christian Abbiati and Massimo Ambrosini to injury before gifting the home side the game-winning penalty with a defensive mix up between Ignazio Abate and Marco Amelia.
"It was an evenly balanced game in which we conceded very little to Juve," the former Cagliari boss mused. "It was a game that seemed destined to end in a draw, but then we were punished for our only error in defense.
"Unfortunately we have also lost two players to injury and even [Riccardo] Montolivo was not at his best, physically."
Allegri was keen, though, to defend top scorer Stephan El Shaarawy, after another lackluster display from a player who played brilliantly during the first half of the season.
"He's a boy of 20 that has done very well up until now, but it's normal that there can be a dip [in form]," he argued. "Physically, he's fine, but he must understand these difficult moments can happen."
Allegri is in no doubt that El Shaarawy will bounce back and he firmly believes that Milan will also benefit from its experiences this term.
"The true value of Milan will be seen next season," he claimed. "Then we will be know if we can compete with Juve.
"We have had a great second half of the season; but I hope we don't undo all that in the remaining games."
Milan hosts Catania next weekend, while Fiorentina travels to Genoa to take on Sampdoria.
A 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Turin on Sunday night has piled the pressure on the Rossoneri, who now have the resurgent Viola breathing down their necks.AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri remains confident that his side will qualify for next season's Champions League despite seeing their lead over fourth-placed Fiorentina cut to a solitary point on Sunday.
The Viola recorded a remarkable 4-3 win over Torino at the Artemio Franchi during the afternoon, while the Rossoneri lost 1-0 to league leader Juventus in the evening kickoff in Turin.
With five rounds of the season remaining, Italy's third and final Champions League berth is clearly now well and truly up for grabs, but Allegri is backing his side to keep Fiorentina at bay.
"We are not worried," the Rossoneri boss told Sky Sport Italia. "We have lost our first game of the year. Now we must try to do well in the next games to hold onto third place.
"We know that Fiorentina are a good side. We threw away a match point by not winning in Florence despite being 2-0 up. Now our calendar becomes easier. I am confident."
However, Allegri was still left counting the cost of Milan's misfortune in Turin, with the Rossoneri losing both Christian Abbiati and Massimo Ambrosini to injury before gifting the home side the game-winning penalty with a defensive mix up between Ignazio Abate and Marco Amelia.
"It was an evenly balanced game in which we conceded very little to Juve," the former Cagliari boss mused. "It was a game that seemed destined to end in a draw, but then we were punished for our only error in defense.
"Unfortunately we have also lost two players to injury and even [Riccardo] Montolivo was not at his best, physically."
Allegri was keen, though, to defend top scorer Stephan El Shaarawy, after another lackluster display from a player who played brilliantly during the first half of the season.
"He's a boy of 20 that has done very well up until now, but it's normal that there can be a dip [in form]," he argued. "Physically, he's fine, but he must understand these difficult moments can happen."
Allegri is in no doubt that El Shaarawy will bounce back and he firmly believes that Milan will also benefit from its experiences this term.
"The true value of Milan will be seen next season," he claimed. "Then we will be know if we can compete with Juve.
"We have had a great second half of the season; but I hope we don't undo all that in the remaining games."
Milan hosts Catania next weekend, while Fiorentina travels to Genoa to take on Sampdoria.
Vidal wants Juventus to finish in a flurry
The Chile international asserts that the Bianconeri will not become complacent despite holding an 11-point lead over Napoli and dismisses reports of a move away from Turin.
Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal expressed his delight after his side's narrow 1-0 Serie A victory over AC Milan and wants the side to finish the season in a flurry.
The Chile international struck the only goal of the game when he dispatched a 57th-minute penalty past substitute Rossoneri goalkeeper Marco Amelia.
"We have to continue like this until the end," Vidal said to Premium after the game. "There are still five major games and we have to finish the season as we did last year."
Should Napoli fail to win away at Pescara on Saturday, Juventus could claim the Serie A title with victory in its local derby against Torino on Sunday.
Asked whether he would prefer to win the title in the derby or in front of the home fans against Palermo the weekend after, Vidal insisted that the team's focus was on the next match.
"We're thinking of Torino, already from tomorrow we will focus [on that] and we will see if we will get the
The Chile international asserts that the Bianconeri will not become complacent despite holding an 11-point lead over Napoli and dismisses reports of a move away from Turin.
Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal expressed his delight after his side's narrow 1-0 Serie A victory over AC Milan and wants the side to finish the season in a flurry.
The Chile international struck the only goal of the game when he dispatched a 57th-minute penalty past substitute Rossoneri goalkeeper Marco Amelia.
"We have to continue like this until the end," Vidal said to Premium after the game. "There are still five major games and we have to finish the season as we did last year."
Should Napoli fail to win away at Pescara on Saturday, Juventus could claim the Serie A title with victory in its local derby against Torino on Sunday.
Asked whether he would prefer to win the title in the derby or in front of the home fans against Palermo the weekend after, Vidal insisted that the team's focus was on the next match.
"We're thinking of Torino, already from tomorrow we will focus [on that] and we will see if we will get the
result," he said.
With seven league goals and seven assists this season, Vidal has been identified as a transfer target for clubs all over Europe. However, the Chilean was determined to squash speculation and pledged his future to the Old Lady.
"I'm happy here and my family are happy, and I'm proud to wear the Juventus jersey."
Juventus holds an 11-point lead over Napoli and requires four points to win the league with five games remaining.
With seven league goals and seven assists this season, Vidal has been identified as a transfer target for clubs all over Europe. However, the Chilean was determined to squash speculation and pledged his future to the Old Lady.
"I'm happy here and my family are happy, and I'm proud to wear the Juventus jersey."
Juventus holds an 11-point lead over Napoli and requires four points to win the league with five games remaining.
Ancelotti struggling to explain PSG inconsistency
The Italian cannot find a reason why his team can play so badly one match and so well the next after the team claimed a 3-0 win over Nice on Sunday.
Paris Saint-Germain boss Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that he does no know why his team can perform as well as it did in the 3-0 win over Nice and as badly as it did in midweek against Evian TG.
The Ligue 1 leader slumped to a penalty defeat in the Coupe de France against the minnows but bounced back in style, with goals from Jeremy Menez, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Clement Chantome ensuring a handsome victory at Parc des Princes on Sunday.
"We saw a lot of intensity and aggression. It was tough tonight," Ancelotti told Canal +. "The key was there. I don't know why the team can play as well as they did tonight and as badly as they did against Evian.
"Anyway, it happened. We are happy with how we did tonight."
Meanwhile, PSG goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu has stressed that his side is not invincible, despite the star talent within the squad.
"We're not untouchable," he added. "We showed a good attitude tonight. We wanted to show that Evian was just a blip. We wanated to bounce back, we did it well.
"We don't pick our matches. We don't always do as well as we want in terms of playing well or playing badly."
PSG holds a nine-point lead as the club chases a first Ligue 1 title in almost two decades.
The Italian cannot find a reason why his team can play so badly one match and so well the next after the team claimed a 3-0 win over Nice on Sunday.
Paris Saint-Germain boss Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that he does no know why his team can perform as well as it did in the 3-0 win over Nice and as badly as it did in midweek against Evian TG.
The Ligue 1 leader slumped to a penalty defeat in the Coupe de France against the minnows but bounced back in style, with goals from Jeremy Menez, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Clement Chantome ensuring a handsome victory at Parc des Princes on Sunday.
"We saw a lot of intensity and aggression. It was tough tonight," Ancelotti told Canal +. "The key was there. I don't know why the team can play as well as they did tonight and as badly as they did against Evian.
"Anyway, it happened. We are happy with how we did tonight."
Meanwhile, PSG goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu has stressed that his side is not invincible, despite the star talent within the squad.
"We're not untouchable," he added. "We showed a good attitude tonight. We wanted to show that Evian was just a blip. We wanated to bounce back, we did it well.
"We don't pick our matches. We don't always do as well as we want in terms of playing well or playing badly."
PSG holds a nine-point lead as the club chases a first Ligue 1 title in almost two decades.
Rocchi: Inter united behind Stramaccioni
The veteran striker insists the Nerazzurri retain great faith in their young boss and is confident they can finish the season strongly Tommaso Rocchi believes the battling nature of Inter Milan's 1-0 victory over Parma proves he and his teammates remain 100 percent behind under-fire coach Andrea Stramaccioni.
The Nerazzurri struggled to break down an organized Gialloblu outfit, who also looked extremely dangerous at the other end of the field. Rocchi popped up with the winner with just nine minutes remaining, though, to not only steal three precious points that have propelled Inter into fifth place in the Serie A standings, but also ease the pressure on Stramaccioni after a run of three successive defeats in all competitions.
"I am happy with the goal, primarily because it has given us a victory; that's a source of beautiful satisfaction," the 35-year-old Rocchi told Sky Sport Italia after the game. "We are going through a difficult moment, but, for me, today we have given everything. Our coach always gives 100 percent, just like the rest of us. We are united in our goal to finish the season well.
"We will now enjoy this victory but then we will play from here until the end without doing any calculations and see where we finish."
Rocchi admitted his winning goal was also of enormous personal satisfaction because it means, after a slow start to his San Siro career, he has now netted two goals in his last three appearances in the league.
"I'm certainly playing more of late and I want to do my best," the veteran striker explained. "It's clear that playing with more consistency gives you more rhythm."
Inter's victory means they are now just two points behind fourth-placed Fiorentina, although the Viola have a game in hand.
The veteran striker insists the Nerazzurri retain great faith in their young boss and is confident they can finish the season strongly Tommaso Rocchi believes the battling nature of Inter Milan's 1-0 victory over Parma proves he and his teammates remain 100 percent behind under-fire coach Andrea Stramaccioni.
The Nerazzurri struggled to break down an organized Gialloblu outfit, who also looked extremely dangerous at the other end of the field. Rocchi popped up with the winner with just nine minutes remaining, though, to not only steal three precious points that have propelled Inter into fifth place in the Serie A standings, but also ease the pressure on Stramaccioni after a run of three successive defeats in all competitions.
"I am happy with the goal, primarily because it has given us a victory; that's a source of beautiful satisfaction," the 35-year-old Rocchi told Sky Sport Italia after the game. "We are going through a difficult moment, but, for me, today we have given everything. Our coach always gives 100 percent, just like the rest of us. We are united in our goal to finish the season well.
"We will now enjoy this victory but then we will play from here until the end without doing any calculations and see where we finish."
Rocchi admitted his winning goal was also of enormous personal satisfaction because it means, after a slow start to his San Siro career, he has now netted two goals in his last three appearances in the league.
"I'm certainly playing more of late and I want to do my best," the veteran striker explained. "It's clear that playing with more consistency gives you more rhythm."
Inter's victory means they are now just two points behind fourth-placed Fiorentina, although the Viola have a game in hand.
Perez: Madrid will renew Ronaldo's contract
The Real Madrid president has vowed to pay the Portuguese whatever it takes to make him stay at the club beyond 2015, when his current deal expires.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is adamant that the club will be able to renew Cristiano Ronaldo's contract.
The Portuguese forward's current deal expires in 2015 but the La Liga champion's hopes for an extension were dealt a blow when he admitted that he was unhappy at the club in September.
The 28-year-old has since been linked with a return to Manchester United, whom he left in 2009 to join the Spanish capital club, but Perez remains confident of keeping his star man at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"Keep calm, we are going to renew with Cristiano Ronaldo. The club are going to pay him," he told Blancos fans at a meeting.
Jose Mourinho's side faces Borussia Dortmund in a European semifinal first leg in midweek and has a Copa del Rey final with Atletico Madrid approaching and Perez says he is happy with the way things are going.
"Real Madrid are having a great month with the Champions League and the Copa del Rey final," he continued. "Being the president of this club is difficult but so is being the coach. We must learn to live with it. We can discuss it between us, but we have to stay together.
"Criticism helps us."
Cesc Fabregas' late goal against Levante ensured that Madrid remains 13 points behind Barcelona with six games to go - an unrealistic mountain to climb if the club is to retain its Primera Division crown.
The Real Madrid president has vowed to pay the Portuguese whatever it takes to make him stay at the club beyond 2015, when his current deal expires.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is adamant that the club will be able to renew Cristiano Ronaldo's contract.
The Portuguese forward's current deal expires in 2015 but the La Liga champion's hopes for an extension were dealt a blow when he admitted that he was unhappy at the club in September.
The 28-year-old has since been linked with a return to Manchester United, whom he left in 2009 to join the Spanish capital club, but Perez remains confident of keeping his star man at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"Keep calm, we are going to renew with Cristiano Ronaldo. The club are going to pay him," he told Blancos fans at a meeting.
Jose Mourinho's side faces Borussia Dortmund in a European semifinal first leg in midweek and has a Copa del Rey final with Atletico Madrid approaching and Perez says he is happy with the way things are going.
"Real Madrid are having a great month with the Champions League and the Copa del Rey final," he continued. "Being the president of this club is difficult but so is being the coach. We must learn to live with it. We can discuss it between us, but we have to stay together.
"Criticism helps us."
Cesc Fabregas' late goal against Levante ensured that Madrid remains 13 points behind Barcelona with six games to go - an unrealistic mountain to climb if the club is to retain its Primera Division crown.
Congratulations Manchester United!!!
Manchester United 3-0 Aston Villa: Van Persie hat trick seals Premier League title
Robin van Persie scored a first-half hat trick as Manchester United won a record-breaking 20th league title in style with a commanding 3-0 victory over Aston Villa on Monday.
The Dutchman slotted home from two yards inside two minutes before latching on to Wayne Rooney's 50-yard pass to score one of the goals of the season with a stunning volley from outside the area. The hat trick was completed after just 33 minutes with a neat finish from six yards after more fine work from Ryan Giggs.
Jonny Evans and Phil Jones were preferred in central defense, while Giggs partnered Michael Carrick in the center of the pitch in just two changes from the side that drew 2-2 with West Ham.
Paul Lambert made just one alteration, as Gabriel Agbonlahor shook off a groin injury to demote Jordan Bowery back to the substitute bench.
With the mood jovial among the home support inside Old Trafford ahead of kickoff, the hosts wasted no time in upping the ante as Giggs knocked Rafael's looping right-wing delivery across goal for Van Persie to hand United the vital lead after just 83 seconds.
Sir Alex's side was relentless in the opening stages. Van Persie skimmed the top of the goal a mere minute after notching his first before Ron Vlaar blocked a near-certain Shinji Kagawa goal from inside the six-yard box and Rafael struck the post with a low drive from 18 yards.
And it was no surprise when United notched its second with just 13 minutes on the clock, and the goal was a thing of beauty. With time and space inside his own half, Rooney looked up and delivered a long, hanging pass forward for Van Persie to run on to and hit a thunderous volley past a motionless Brad Guzan from outside the area.
Van Persie was in an inspired mood, even by the Premier League top goalscorer’s standards, and clinched his hat trick inside 33 minutes when Giggs found him inside the six-yard box. He escaped the tame attentions of a hapless Villa defense and finished smartly, in off the post.
Villa, of course, was still fighting for its top-flight status and saw its goal difference severely damaged as the club attempted to keep distance between itself and 18th-placed Wigan.
Karim El Ahmadi replaced Charles N'Zogbia at halftime as Lambert attempted to shore up his shell-shocked defense, and it proved relatively successful as Villa slowed the tempo of the game down in the second half.
United was going through the motions in the second half, allowing Villa to build up a head of steam, but the relegation-threatened side was as sloppy in attack as the hosts were clinical and often only had themselves to blame when seeing chance go begging.
Andrea Weimann looked to have given Villa a glimmer of hope soon, heading Ashley Westwood's corner past David de Gea, only to see Van Persie head off the line at the back post.El Ahmadi then tested De Gea with a dipping half-volley from 30 yards, that the goalkeeper did well to tip over the bar before, up the other end, Kagawa shot high and wide from inside the area after neat footwork to find space.
However, it was all cheers and dancing as the full-time whistle confirmed United's record-breaking 20th league title, going above Liverpool in the all-time rankings, and take the trophy back to Old Trafford from local rival City.
Manchester United 3-0 Aston Villa: Van Persie hat trick seals Premier League title
Robin van Persie scored a first-half hat trick as Manchester United won a record-breaking 20th league title in style with a commanding 3-0 victory over Aston Villa on Monday.
The Dutchman slotted home from two yards inside two minutes before latching on to Wayne Rooney's 50-yard pass to score one of the goals of the season with a stunning volley from outside the area. The hat trick was completed after just 33 minutes with a neat finish from six yards after more fine work from Ryan Giggs.
Jonny Evans and Phil Jones were preferred in central defense, while Giggs partnered Michael Carrick in the center of the pitch in just two changes from the side that drew 2-2 with West Ham.
Paul Lambert made just one alteration, as Gabriel Agbonlahor shook off a groin injury to demote Jordan Bowery back to the substitute bench.
With the mood jovial among the home support inside Old Trafford ahead of kickoff, the hosts wasted no time in upping the ante as Giggs knocked Rafael's looping right-wing delivery across goal for Van Persie to hand United the vital lead after just 83 seconds.
Sir Alex's side was relentless in the opening stages. Van Persie skimmed the top of the goal a mere minute after notching his first before Ron Vlaar blocked a near-certain Shinji Kagawa goal from inside the six-yard box and Rafael struck the post with a low drive from 18 yards.
And it was no surprise when United notched its second with just 13 minutes on the clock, and the goal was a thing of beauty. With time and space inside his own half, Rooney looked up and delivered a long, hanging pass forward for Van Persie to run on to and hit a thunderous volley past a motionless Brad Guzan from outside the area.
Van Persie was in an inspired mood, even by the Premier League top goalscorer’s standards, and clinched his hat trick inside 33 minutes when Giggs found him inside the six-yard box. He escaped the tame attentions of a hapless Villa defense and finished smartly, in off the post.
Villa, of course, was still fighting for its top-flight status and saw its goal difference severely damaged as the club attempted to keep distance between itself and 18th-placed Wigan.
Karim El Ahmadi replaced Charles N'Zogbia at halftime as Lambert attempted to shore up his shell-shocked defense, and it proved relatively successful as Villa slowed the tempo of the game down in the second half.
United was going through the motions in the second half, allowing Villa to build up a head of steam, but the relegation-threatened side was as sloppy in attack as the hosts were clinical and often only had themselves to blame when seeing chance go begging.
Andrea Weimann looked to have given Villa a glimmer of hope soon, heading Ashley Westwood's corner past David de Gea, only to see Van Persie head off the line at the back post.El Ahmadi then tested De Gea with a dipping half-volley from 30 yards, that the goalkeeper did well to tip over the bar before, up the other end, Kagawa shot high and wide from inside the area after neat footwork to find space.
However, it was all cheers and dancing as the full-time whistle confirmed United's record-breaking 20th league title, going above Liverpool in the all-time rankings, and take the trophy back to Old Trafford from local rival City.
Manchester United wins 20th Premier League title
Sir Alex Ferguson has clinched the 13th top-flight crown of his 27-year reign at Old Trafford, and takes the Red Devils' overall total to 20, two more than archrival Liverpool.
Manchester United has won the Premier League title after securing a 3-0 victory over Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Monday.
It is the club's 20th league crown, and Sir Alex Ferguson's 13th of his 27-year reign at the club. With 12 points in its final four games, United would pass Chelsea's Premier League record of 95 points for the season.
The Red Devils moved 16 points clear of Manchester City, which has five games left and 15 points to play for, after Robin van Persie's first-half hat trick secured a comfortable win over Paul Lambert's relegation-threatened side.
The Dutchman, who has now moved one goal ahead of Liverpool's Luis Suarez in the race for the Premier League's Golden Boot, struck his first of the evening from close range after just two minutes, while a stunning volley from the edge of the area was followed by another effort inside the box.
Manchester City clinched its first Premier League crown on goal difference on the final day of last season, but Ferguson's team came roaring back during the current campaign and has blown its city and title rivals out of the water.
The Red Devils went top of the table following victory against Arsenal on Nov. 3, and even though they were temporarily passed by City midway through the month, they quickly re-established top spot and have not looked back.
Van Persie's last-minute free kick provided a dramatic victory over City at the Etihad Stadium in December, and a six-point gap to go with it, and the club's late comeback against Newcastle on Boxing Day sent an ominous message to those at Eastlands.
United ended 2012 seven points ahead of its nearest rival, and the gap would only grow as the new year wore on.
After City drew away to Liverpool and lost at Southampton in early February, United went 12 points clear by beating Everton at Old Trafford, with Ferguson electing to play a strong side despite preparing to face Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The Scot admitted that the opportunity to open up such a large gap was too important to pass up, and although his side eventually exited Europe at the hands of Los Blancos, it effectively put City out of sight by mid-February.
And when City slumped to defeat at Everton on March 16, it allowed United - in the midst of a six-game run without conceding a league goal - to move 15 points clear.
Sergio Aguero's superb goal at Old Trafford in a 2-1 City victory cut United's lead to 13, while Carlos Tevez secured victory over Wigan as United drew at West Ham a week later.
But City's defeat at Tottenham on Sunday presented the Red Devils with the chance to sew it up against Villa, and they made no mistake with the opportunity.
United had seven titles to its name when Ferguson took over in 1986. The Scot won his first in 1992-93, and 20 years later he has guided his side to its 20th league crown. In winning their latest trophy, United moves two titles clear of Liverpool, which won its 18th and most recent championship in 1990.
Van Persie elated at first Premier League title triumph
The Dutchman netted a first-half hat trick to seal Manchester United's record 20th championship following one FA Cup success in eight years with Arsenal.Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has revelled in his first Premier League title win after scoring a first-half hat trick to down Aston Villa 3-0 on Monday night.
The 29-year-old moved to Old Trafford in a 24 million pound move last summer after growing disillusioned at the lack of progress Arsenal was making in the hunt for silverware, winning just one FA Cup winners' medal in eight years in North London.
Van Persie netted three times inside the opening 33 minutes against Paul Lambert's struggling side to seal clinch United's record 20th league title, and the striker hailed the efforts of everyone at the club as it became the most successful in English football.
"I had to wait for so long for the first title. It's a great feeling. [We have] a fantastic team with fantastic players," van Persie told reporters. "If you look at every single one of the players, it is a championship for every single one of them; the staff, the manager, players. Everyone. It's our 20th title and it's deserved."
The hat trick takes Van Persie above Luis Suarez in the Premier League goalscoring charts with 24 goals in 34 games, and the Dutchman's second of the game was one of the goals of the season.
Picking up Wayne Rooney's long, hanging pass from inside his own half, the Dutchman hit a thunderous volley from 25 yards to all but seal the win, but the striker was magnanimous when questioned on the goal, instead prefering to again focus on the collective efforts of the squad.
"It doesn't really matter who scored, as long as we win the game. And we did win the game. It was great to score so early, and [it was] a great win on a fantastic day of football," van Persie said. "[The second goal] was one of the best I've ever scored, but it doesn't matter today. It was an incredible goal but all I had to do was time it right ... and have a little bit of luck."
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