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..::Football III::..
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Holtby expects stubborn West Ham defence
Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby knows that breaking down West Ham will not be easy when the two sides meet on Sunday.
The hosts are heavy favourites to defeat Sam Allardyce's side at White Hart Lane as they bid to continue their impressive start to the Premier League season, sitting in third while their visitors are struggling in 17th, having won just one of their six league fixtures.
The Hammers have conceded just five goals, however - only four sides have shipped less - and Holtby is aware that Spurs will have to be at their best to breach the away side's defence.
"West Ham aren't conceding many goals, they look strong and dangerous on the counterattack," the midfielder told Tottenham's official website.
"We have to be ready for it, another derby, the atmosphere will be fantastic and I hope for the fans we can get three points again."
The Germany international has been in impressive form for Tottenham this season and laid on an assist in the club's 2-0 Europa League win over Anzhi Makhachkala on Thursday.
Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby knows that breaking down West Ham will not be easy when the two sides meet on Sunday.
The hosts are heavy favourites to defeat Sam Allardyce's side at White Hart Lane as they bid to continue their impressive start to the Premier League season, sitting in third while their visitors are struggling in 17th, having won just one of their six league fixtures.
The Hammers have conceded just five goals, however - only four sides have shipped less - and Holtby is aware that Spurs will have to be at their best to breach the away side's defence.
"West Ham aren't conceding many goals, they look strong and dangerous on the counterattack," the midfielder told Tottenham's official website.
"We have to be ready for it, another derby, the atmosphere will be fantastic and I hope for the fans we can get three points again."
The Germany international has been in impressive form for Tottenham this season and laid on an assist in the club's 2-0 Europa League win over Anzhi Makhachkala on Thursday.
Hodgson has faith in strong England future but fires qualifiers warning
England manager Roy Hodgson believes that the future of the national team looks rosy but warns that promising youngsters will count for nothing if they fail to qualify for the World Cup.
Following his appointment as FA chairman, Grey Dyke expressed in September his disillusionment at the lack of young English players given opportunities by clubs in the Premier League.
However, Hodgson feels optimistic over the future of English football and cites recently capped Everton midfielder Ross Barkley as an example of one of the country's "unbelievably exciting players" emerging.
"I think there's been the emergence of lots of very interesting Under-21s players this year," he told the FA's official website. "Ross is even younger - I don't think he's 20 yet so it's nice that people like himself are emerging.
"Gareth Southgate and his Under-21s team have some unbelievably exciting players and I think the future for our football looks good but, of course, we need first of all to get to the World Cup and to give ourselves a chance to continue this situation where the team I think will get stronger and stronger."
The 66-year-old takes charge of England's final two World Cup qualifiers against Montenegro and Poland on October 11 and 15 but remains hopeful of reaching Brazil with home support in both fixtures.
He continued: "We'd ideally have liked to have 24 points from eight games and had no concern from these two games but, realistically, it was always going to be a tough ask to have got that far in front in a very difficult group.
"So we're happy to go into these last two games at home, backed up by our fans, knowing that two victories will assure us a place in Brazil, so the scenario is a good one."
"The most important thing is that we've been preparing for this qualification for a long time believing that we'd be good enough to reach the final stage of it and that we'd be good enough to get ourselves over the line.
"Now is the opportunity to prove that and the games are here at Wembley, which is important to us because we feel comfortable playing at home and we feel we're going to get good support from the fans who come to the game."
England manager Roy Hodgson believes that the future of the national team looks rosy but warns that promising youngsters will count for nothing if they fail to qualify for the World Cup.
Following his appointment as FA chairman, Grey Dyke expressed in September his disillusionment at the lack of young English players given opportunities by clubs in the Premier League.
However, Hodgson feels optimistic over the future of English football and cites recently capped Everton midfielder Ross Barkley as an example of one of the country's "unbelievably exciting players" emerging.
"I think there's been the emergence of lots of very interesting Under-21s players this year," he told the FA's official website. "Ross is even younger - I don't think he's 20 yet so it's nice that people like himself are emerging.
"Gareth Southgate and his Under-21s team have some unbelievably exciting players and I think the future for our football looks good but, of course, we need first of all to get to the World Cup and to give ourselves a chance to continue this situation where the team I think will get stronger and stronger."
The 66-year-old takes charge of England's final two World Cup qualifiers against Montenegro and Poland on October 11 and 15 but remains hopeful of reaching Brazil with home support in both fixtures.
He continued: "We'd ideally have liked to have 24 points from eight games and had no concern from these two games but, realistically, it was always going to be a tough ask to have got that far in front in a very difficult group.
"So we're happy to go into these last two games at home, backed up by our fans, knowing that two victories will assure us a place in Brazil, so the scenario is a good one."
"The most important thing is that we've been preparing for this qualification for a long time believing that we'd be good enough to reach the final stage of it and that we'd be good enough to get ourselves over the line.
"Now is the opportunity to prove that and the games are here at Wembley, which is important to us because we feel comfortable playing at home and we feel we're going to get good support from the fans who come to the game."
Lukaku will stay with Everton until summer Chelsea decision - agent
Romelu Lukaku will remain at Everton until next summer and a decision will not be made on his Chelsea future until next June, according to his agent.
The 20-year-old striker has been an instant hit at Goodison Park at the start of a second consecutive season-long loan from Stamford Bridge.
Reports have suggested that Lukaku could go on loan to Juventus in January but this is firmly denied by the player's camp, who echo Everton manager Roberto Martinez in insisting there is no release clause in the contract that took him from Chelsea to Merseyside.
Lukaku's long-time agent, Christophe Henrotay, told Goal: "It is impossible that Romelu joins Juventus in January for two reasons - he is on loan at Everton until the end of the season and, for him, there is nothing in his mind about changing clubs.
"There is no clause. It is a season-long loan. He chose to join Everton, he wanted to play for Everton and score goals for them and will not go anywhere in January. He is concentrating on his form and the manager is happy with him.
"In the summer it will be a decision between the club [Chelsea], me and Romelu over his future. He has two years left on his contract in June, so there is no decision about a transfer right now."
Henrotay, who has managed Lukaku's affairs since the Belgian progressed through the ranks at Anderlecht, dispelled rumours claiming that the player is now represented by super-agent Mino Raiola, whose clients include Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Mario Balotelli.
"This rumour is not correct," the agent explained. "I have heard that it comes from a fake Twitter account.
"Our relationship with Romelu is perfect. We still have a contract for a year or more. There is no reason that he would swap agents."
Romelu Lukaku will remain at Everton until next summer and a decision will not be made on his Chelsea future until next June, according to his agent.
The 20-year-old striker has been an instant hit at Goodison Park at the start of a second consecutive season-long loan from Stamford Bridge.
Reports have suggested that Lukaku could go on loan to Juventus in January but this is firmly denied by the player's camp, who echo Everton manager Roberto Martinez in insisting there is no release clause in the contract that took him from Chelsea to Merseyside.
Lukaku's long-time agent, Christophe Henrotay, told Goal: "It is impossible that Romelu joins Juventus in January for two reasons - he is on loan at Everton until the end of the season and, for him, there is nothing in his mind about changing clubs.
"There is no clause. It is a season-long loan. He chose to join Everton, he wanted to play for Everton and score goals for them and will not go anywhere in January. He is concentrating on his form and the manager is happy with him.
"In the summer it will be a decision between the club [Chelsea], me and Romelu over his future. He has two years left on his contract in June, so there is no decision about a transfer right now."
Henrotay, who has managed Lukaku's affairs since the Belgian progressed through the ranks at Anderlecht, dispelled rumours claiming that the player is now represented by super-agent Mino Raiola, whose clients include Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Mario Balotelli.
"This rumour is not correct," the agent explained. "I have heard that it comes from a fake Twitter account.
"Our relationship with Romelu is perfect. We still have a contract for a year or more. There is no reason that he would swap agents."
Matri: I'll celebrate if I score against Juventus
Alessandro Matri has vowed to celebrate if he scores for AC Milan against former club Juventus on Sunday.
The 29-year-old moved to San Siro from the Serie A champions during the summer and will come face-to-face with his former employers for the first time in this weekend's clash in Turin.
The Italian has failed to find the net in his seven appearances for the Rossoneri and has even had messages of support from his former Juve team-mates, yet he insists he will not hold back on his emotions if he ends his goal drought on Sunday.
"I think so, I don't see it as a lack of respect," he told Gazzetta dello Sport when asked if he would celebrate. "For me, scoring means you celebrate. I did it against Cagliari, [so] I don't see why I shouldn't.
"They [Juventus players] text me to cheer me up because I can't get a goal. But the punchline was always the same: 'Wait a little while - don't do it against us. 'I left a wonderful group in Turin and I'll be happy to see everyone."
Milan currently sit eight points behind the reigning champions after just six games, but Matri believes there is no reason why his side cannot fight for the Serie A title this season.
"Winning against a direct competitor could give us confidence, a morale boost. First I think about the top three, then the Scudetto. Why shouldn't I? The championship is long," he continued.
"Milan have changed a lot, had a lot of injuries. That shouldn't be an excuse, but assembling a team takes time. Playing every three days doesn't help."
Finally, Matri revealed the differences between Juve boss Antonio Conte and Milan's Massimiliano Allegri, claiming his current coach tends to use a more personal approach with his players.
"Conte is more obsessive tactically, he is a great motivator. Allegri has more of a relationship with players, looking for more dialogue," he added.
Alessandro Matri has vowed to celebrate if he scores for AC Milan against former club Juventus on Sunday.
The 29-year-old moved to San Siro from the Serie A champions during the summer and will come face-to-face with his former employers for the first time in this weekend's clash in Turin.
The Italian has failed to find the net in his seven appearances for the Rossoneri and has even had messages of support from his former Juve team-mates, yet he insists he will not hold back on his emotions if he ends his goal drought on Sunday.
"I think so, I don't see it as a lack of respect," he told Gazzetta dello Sport when asked if he would celebrate. "For me, scoring means you celebrate. I did it against Cagliari, [so] I don't see why I shouldn't.
"They [Juventus players] text me to cheer me up because I can't get a goal. But the punchline was always the same: 'Wait a little while - don't do it against us. 'I left a wonderful group in Turin and I'll be happy to see everyone."
Milan currently sit eight points behind the reigning champions after just six games, but Matri believes there is no reason why his side cannot fight for the Serie A title this season.
"Winning against a direct competitor could give us confidence, a morale boost. First I think about the top three, then the Scudetto. Why shouldn't I? The championship is long," he continued.
"Milan have changed a lot, had a lot of injuries. That shouldn't be an excuse, but assembling a team takes time. Playing every three days doesn't help."
Finally, Matri revealed the differences between Juve boss Antonio Conte and Milan's Massimiliano Allegri, claiming his current coach tends to use a more personal approach with his players.
"Conte is more obsessive tactically, he is a great motivator. Allegri has more of a relationship with players, looking for more dialogue," he added.
Anything is possible in 'special' PSG clash, says Baup
Olympique de Marseille boss Elie Baup insists "anything is possible" as his side prepare to entertain Paris Saint-Germain in the first Classique of the season on Sunday.
Just a point separates the two sides in the Ligue 1 table after eight games, although PSG head into the encounter off the back of a convincing 3-0 Champions League win over Benfica, while Marseille suffered defeat by the same scoreline against Borussia Dortmund.
However, Baup has stressed that his side's European form will have no bearing on Sunday's clash, which he believes will be a special occasion for everyone concerned with the club.
"This is like a final, it's very special," he told reporters at a press conference.
"This is a great game for the whole club, our fans, our players. We need to put all our heart into this game.
"During a complete season, we know that Paris is the favourite for the league and it will be difficult for a team to contest that, but in a home game, anything is possible.
"The defeats [to Dortmund and Arsenal] have consequences for the Champions League. Now, we must get back to Ligue 1, which is our priority. We've had two consecutive victories [against Lorient and Saint-Etienne], we're hosting the league favourites, so we have every reason to be motivated for this game."
Baup has warned that PSG will be rightly confident heading into the game after their midweek win over Jorge Jesus' side, but insists his players must not be overawed against Laurent Blanc's expensively-assembled squad.
"Teams like Paris and Monaco have financial power that means we play against very big players who've been attracted to join these clubs. But we have to face that by transcending it, showing the best values which correspond to our club," added the 58-year-old.
"PSG won 3-0 against a good team. They would be wrong to not be confident. For them, that's not complacency, it is part of the logic of what they are doing."
Olympique de Marseille boss Elie Baup insists "anything is possible" as his side prepare to entertain Paris Saint-Germain in the first Classique of the season on Sunday.
Just a point separates the two sides in the Ligue 1 table after eight games, although PSG head into the encounter off the back of a convincing 3-0 Champions League win over Benfica, while Marseille suffered defeat by the same scoreline against Borussia Dortmund.
However, Baup has stressed that his side's European form will have no bearing on Sunday's clash, which he believes will be a special occasion for everyone concerned with the club.
"This is like a final, it's very special," he told reporters at a press conference.
"This is a great game for the whole club, our fans, our players. We need to put all our heart into this game.
"During a complete season, we know that Paris is the favourite for the league and it will be difficult for a team to contest that, but in a home game, anything is possible.
"The defeats [to Dortmund and Arsenal] have consequences for the Champions League. Now, we must get back to Ligue 1, which is our priority. We've had two consecutive victories [against Lorient and Saint-Etienne], we're hosting the league favourites, so we have every reason to be motivated for this game."
Baup has warned that PSG will be rightly confident heading into the game after their midweek win over Jorge Jesus' side, but insists his players must not be overawed against Laurent Blanc's expensively-assembled squad.
"Teams like Paris and Monaco have financial power that means we play against very big players who've been attracted to join these clubs. But we have to face that by transcending it, showing the best values which correspond to our club," added the 58-year-old.
"PSG won 3-0 against a good team. They would be wrong to not be confident. For them, that's not complacency, it is part of the logic of what they are doing."
Pellegrini: Hart has our trust
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini backs Joe Hart to rediscover his best form sooner rather than later, despite his struggles this season continuing with a difficult game on Wednesday as his side were comprehensively defeated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Hart was beaten at his near post by shots from Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben as Bayern cruised to a 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium, leading to speculation that Pellegrini may consider taking him out of the firing line for Saturday's clash with Everton.
However, while acknowledging the need for Hart to pick up his level of performance, the Chilean insisted that he has faith in the 26-year-old's ability.
"Of course he feels that he didn't do very well [against Bayern] but I think he doesn't have any problem," Pellegrini told the media. "We hope he will recover from the game.
"Joe knows he must improve the way he is playing but he knows he has our trust."
City have come in for some criticism for their inconsistent displays this season, having followed up their 4-1 derby mauling of Manchester United by twice surrendering the lead in a 3-2 reverse at Aston Villa on Saturday.
Pellegrini argues that his team deserve more than their haul of 10 points from six games but warned them to expect a tough game with unbeaten Everton, against whom City have lost nine of their last 12 top-flight meetings.
"Everton is the only team unbeaten in the Premier League and they're playing very well but I hope we'll have a good game and get three points," he added.
Martin Demichelis remains sidelined with a knee injury, while Stevan Jovetic is also unavailable due to a "couple of small problems", according to Pellegrini.
The ex-Malaga boss also confirmed that Jack Rodwell has resumed full training after a hamstring problem and is fit but will not feature against his former club.
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini backs Joe Hart to rediscover his best form sooner rather than later, despite his struggles this season continuing with a difficult game on Wednesday as his side were comprehensively defeated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Hart was beaten at his near post by shots from Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben as Bayern cruised to a 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium, leading to speculation that Pellegrini may consider taking him out of the firing line for Saturday's clash with Everton.
However, while acknowledging the need for Hart to pick up his level of performance, the Chilean insisted that he has faith in the 26-year-old's ability.
"Of course he feels that he didn't do very well [against Bayern] but I think he doesn't have any problem," Pellegrini told the media. "We hope he will recover from the game.
"Joe knows he must improve the way he is playing but he knows he has our trust."
City have come in for some criticism for their inconsistent displays this season, having followed up their 4-1 derby mauling of Manchester United by twice surrendering the lead in a 3-2 reverse at Aston Villa on Saturday.
Pellegrini argues that his team deserve more than their haul of 10 points from six games but warned them to expect a tough game with unbeaten Everton, against whom City have lost nine of their last 12 top-flight meetings.
"Everton is the only team unbeaten in the Premier League and they're playing very well but I hope we'll have a good game and get three points," he added.
Martin Demichelis remains sidelined with a knee injury, while Stevan Jovetic is also unavailable due to a "couple of small problems", according to Pellegrini.
The ex-Malaga boss also confirmed that Jack Rodwell has resumed full training after a hamstring problem and is fit but will not feature against his former club.
Mata in, Soldado out for Spain
Spain boss Vicente del Bosque has recalled Juan Mata for the side's upcoming World Cup qualifiers with Belarus and Georgia.
The Chelsea midfielder has been used sparingly by manager Jose Mourinho this season and missed Spain's last three games due to the lack of match action, but will form part of a 23-man squad for the final two qualifiers on October 11 and 15.
Atletico Madrid duo Mario Suarez and Koke both retain their places along with Real Madrid playmaker Isco, although there is no place for Tottenham striker Roberto Soldado, despite his goal in Spain's last outing against Chile. Manchester City's Alvaro Negredo and Atletico's David Villa are the two recognised centre-forwards in the set-up.
Meanwhile, Alberto Moreno of Sevilla has been handed his first call-up, although Diego Costa misses out as expected as the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) wait to receive confirmation that he would be eligible to represent la Roja.
Injuries ensure that Xabi Alonso, Jordi Alba, Santi Cazorla and Fernando Torres are all absent, but Iker Casillas keeps his place after returning to action for Madrid in the Champions League win over Copenhagen.Spain currently top Group I on goal difference ahead of France and have a game in hand on Didier Deschamps' men.
Squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Jose Reina (Napoli), Victor Valdes (Barcelona)
Defenders: Alvaro Arbeloa (Real Madrid), Juanfran (Atletico Madrid), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Raul Albiol (Napoli), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Ignacio Monreal (Arsenal), Alberto Moreno (Sevilla).
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Mario Suarez (Atletico Madrid), Xavi Hernandez (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Isco (Real Madrid), Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona), Jesus Navas (Manchester City), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Juan Mata (Chelsea), David Silva (Manchester City).
Forwards: Alvaro Negredo (Manchester City, David Villa (Atletico Madrid).
Ancelotti: Benzema remains Madrid's No.9
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that Karim Benzema remains his first-choice striker despite the Frenchman's profligacy in front of goal in recent weeks.
The former Olympique Lyonnais forward has failed to find the net in Madrid's last five La Liga encounters and was recently whistled by his own fans at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti is satisfied with the attacker's performances and has no intention to drop him any time soon.
"Benzema has his place within the team and remains our starting forward," the Blancos boss stated at a press conference.
"He has not scored in our past few games, but I have faith in me. I haven't spoken with him after our last game because he doesn't need that."
The Italian coach then went on to praise Angel Di Maria in light of the Argentine's fine performances so far this season.
"Di Maria has been doing very well," the Champions League winner enthused. "He scored twice this week when he played higher up the pitch.
"One of his biggest assets is that he can play in many different positions. He is a very versatile player and that's pretty useful."
Ancelotti also had his say on Raphael Varane after his comeback from injury, and stressed that the centre-back's return will increase the competition for places in defence.
"The most important thing is that he's back from injury again," the 54-year-old trainer stated. "He did very well and always remained calm.
"His return will increase competition for places."
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that Karim Benzema remains his first-choice striker despite the Frenchman's profligacy in front of goal in recent weeks.
The former Olympique Lyonnais forward has failed to find the net in Madrid's last five La Liga encounters and was recently whistled by his own fans at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti is satisfied with the attacker's performances and has no intention to drop him any time soon.
"Benzema has his place within the team and remains our starting forward," the Blancos boss stated at a press conference.
"He has not scored in our past few games, but I have faith in me. I haven't spoken with him after our last game because he doesn't need that."
The Italian coach then went on to praise Angel Di Maria in light of the Argentine's fine performances so far this season.
"Di Maria has been doing very well," the Champions League winner enthused. "He scored twice this week when he played higher up the pitch.
"One of his biggest assets is that he can play in many different positions. He is a very versatile player and that's pretty useful."
Ancelotti also had his say on Raphael Varane after his comeback from injury, and stressed that the centre-back's return will increase the competition for places in defence.
"The most important thing is that he's back from injury again," the 54-year-old trainer stated. "He did very well and always remained calm.
"His return will increase competition for places."
Ibrahimovic urges Rooney to join PSG
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has urged Wayne Rooney to quit Manchester United and join him at Paris Saint-Germain.
The striker handed in a second transfer request inside three years at the end of last season, and Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho subsequently went public with his summer pursuit of the England international.
However, the transfer deadline passed with Rooney still at United, and Ibrahimovic has now called on the 27-year-old to join the Ligue 1 champions if he is still seeking an Old Trafford exit.
"When there was talk of Rooney joining us in Paris, it was a prospect that excited me," Ibrahimovic is quoted as saying by The Sun.
"I think he made it clear in the summer that he wanted a fresh challenge - and things have not been going so well for Manchester United this season.
"If he still wants to move next summer, or in January, I would urge him to come and play with me in Paris. The only direction this club is going is up."
Ibrahimovic jokingly warned that Rooney would not be the star attraction at Parc des Princes if he was to make the switch to France, but was quick to praise the forward's talents.
"If he did join he would have to get used to the fact that Zlatan scores even better goals than him," added Ibrahimovic.
"But I don't just want to play with great players, I want to play with technically great players - and that is what he is.
"You can work on the technical side but it is not something you can be taught. You have it or you don't and Rooney does."
Reina targets Barcelona return
Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina, on loan at Napoli until the end of the season, dreams of a return to Barcelona in the summer of 2014.
The 31-year-old shot-stopper came through the ranks of the Blaugrana youth academy, but left the Catalan club for Villarreal in the summer of 2002, after failing to secure regular first-team action at the Camp Nou side.
Nevertheless, he has now set his sights on a return to his boyhood club as the Spanish champions prepare for life after Victor Valdes, who will leave the club at the end of the 2013-14 campaign.
"It would be great to return to Barcelona. I am very happy that my name's being mentioned," Reina told Catalunya Radio.
"Nothing has been signed, though. I assume that they have been talking with a lot of goalkeepers and have shortlisted a number of them. We will see what happens next year."
Reina has a contract with Liverpool until June 2016.
Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina, on loan at Napoli until the end of the season, dreams of a return to Barcelona in the summer of 2014.
The 31-year-old shot-stopper came through the ranks of the Blaugrana youth academy, but left the Catalan club for Villarreal in the summer of 2002, after failing to secure regular first-team action at the Camp Nou side.
Nevertheless, he has now set his sights on a return to his boyhood club as the Spanish champions prepare for life after Victor Valdes, who will leave the club at the end of the 2013-14 campaign.
"It would be great to return to Barcelona. I am very happy that my name's being mentioned," Reina told Catalunya Radio.
"Nothing has been signed, though. I assume that they have been talking with a lot of goalkeepers and have shortlisted a number of them. We will see what happens next year."
Reina has a contract with Liverpool until June 2016.
Abidal wants Valdes at Monaco
Monaco skipper Eric Abidal has made it clear that he would welcome Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes at the Stade Louis II with open arms.
The Blaugrana shot-stopper, 31, recently announced his decision to leave Camp Nou when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Consequently, Abidal is hoping that Valdes decides to follow in his footsteps by making the move to the French principality.
"Monaco would be a good option for Victor if we play in the Champions League next season," Abidal told Cadena COPE.
The Frenchman, who left Barca for Monaco this summer, then briefly reflected on his time in Catalunya and stressed that he has nothing but fond memories of his spell with the current Spanish champions.
"I am not disillusioned with Barcelona," the centre-half insisted. "I understand the club's decision to let me go. I have a lot of respect for Barcelona and have never said anything bad about the club.
"I am very happy to have been at Barca for six years."
Abidal won four Liga titles during his time at Barcelona, while also lifting the Champions League twice.
Monaco skipper Eric Abidal has made it clear that he would welcome Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes at the Stade Louis II with open arms.
The Blaugrana shot-stopper, 31, recently announced his decision to leave Camp Nou when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Consequently, Abidal is hoping that Valdes decides to follow in his footsteps by making the move to the French principality.
"Monaco would be a good option for Victor if we play in the Champions League next season," Abidal told Cadena COPE.
The Frenchman, who left Barca for Monaco this summer, then briefly reflected on his time in Catalunya and stressed that he has nothing but fond memories of his spell with the current Spanish champions.
"I am not disillusioned with Barcelona," the centre-half insisted. "I understand the club's decision to let me go. I have a lot of respect for Barcelona and have never said anything bad about the club.
"I am very happy to have been at Barca for six years."
Abidal won four Liga titles during his time at Barcelona, while also lifting the Champions League twice.
Giggs: Players to blame for poor start
Ryan Giggs says Manchester United’s players only have themselves to blame for the club’s poor start to the season but insists that they have time to turn things around.
The reigning Premier League champions currently languish in 12th place in the table with just seven points from their opening six games.
United were beaten 3-1 at home by West Brom last time out and Giggs has called on his side to turn their form around.
"It hasn’t been a great start to the season but the good thing about that is we have plenty of time to turn it around," the veteran midfielder told reporters.
"I can’t put my finger on what has happened. We’ve just not played as well as we can both individually and as a team.
"The results have shown we haven’t played as well as we can do. But we know the quality in the dressing room.
"We’re the champions so we showed that quality last year and we have to show it again."
The Welshman also refused to use the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson as an excuse, reasoning that the team are simply not playing well at the moment.
"Sir Alex was a great manager and a great influence on the team and the club. You’re going to miss someone like that. But I don’t think that’s an excuse when individuals aren’t playing as well as they can," he added.
"We’re not playing well as a team. We haven’t got injury problems as we have had in the past. So there’s no excuse.
"It was a tough start for us because we played against all the top teams but that is no excuse. We just haven’t played as well as we can."
Giggs also feels his side can recover from their poor start and fight their way back to the top of the table - despite already lying eight point behind leaders Arsenal.
"It’s a weird season. City have been beaten twice. Nobody has hit the ground running who we’d have expected to," he argued.
"Obviously Arsenal are playing well, Tottenham and Liverpool are at the top, but there’s enough time for us to turn it around and get back to the top and stay there.
"There are other teams getting beaten around us. We have plenty of time but we need to start doing it quickly and at the weekend."
Guarin: I rejected Juventus to join Inter
Fredy Guarin has revealed that he rejected the chance to join Juventus during his time at Porto as he only wanted a move to Inter.
The Colombia international has developed into a key player at the Nerazzurri since his transfer in January 2012, but he could have ended up at their arch-rivals instead as the Bianconeri were supposedly keen to sign the 27-year-old as well in the past.
"During my time at Porto, I turned down the chance to sign for Juventus in order to move to Inter," Guarin told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The midfielder was heavily linked with a move away from Inter ahead of the 2013-14 campaign, but he has insisted that a transfer was never an option for him.
"I have always said that all I want is to win silverware here," he declared.
Guarin then went on to discuss Inter's title credentials and made it clear that they still have a long way to go before they can call themselves contenders.
"We have gotten some important results so far, but there's still something missing," the versatile midfielder mused.
"We're on the right path, but we still have a long way to go. We have not done anything yet.
"It is an advantage that we don't play European football. There's less travelling, which gives you time to work on certain small things."
Inter currently sit fourth in Serie A with 14 points from six games, trailing leaders Roma by four points.
Fredy Guarin has revealed that he rejected the chance to join Juventus during his time at Porto as he only wanted a move to Inter.
The Colombia international has developed into a key player at the Nerazzurri since his transfer in January 2012, but he could have ended up at their arch-rivals instead as the Bianconeri were supposedly keen to sign the 27-year-old as well in the past.
"During my time at Porto, I turned down the chance to sign for Juventus in order to move to Inter," Guarin told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The midfielder was heavily linked with a move away from Inter ahead of the 2013-14 campaign, but he has insisted that a transfer was never an option for him.
"I have always said that all I want is to win silverware here," he declared.
Guarin then went on to discuss Inter's title credentials and made it clear that they still have a long way to go before they can call themselves contenders.
"We have gotten some important results so far, but there's still something missing," the versatile midfielder mused.
"We're on the right path, but we still have a long way to go. We have not done anything yet.
"It is an advantage that we don't play European football. There's less travelling, which gives you time to work on certain small things."
Inter currently sit fourth in Serie A with 14 points from six games, trailing leaders Roma by four points.
I am the right man for Manchester United, insists Moyes
David Moyes has again insisted that he is the right man to lead Manchester United after the club suffered their worst start to a season in 24 years.
The champions have lost three of their opening six Premier League games under the Scot and currently lie 12th in the standings with a return of just seven points.
But Moyes, who succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson's 26-and-a-half year reign in June, has confidence in his abilities and those of the United squad as he looks to climb at the table.
"I'm sure United know they picked the right man for the job and Sir Alex was part of that process as well," he told reporters on Friday.
"They're really good players. They know the standards they've set over the years - together we'll work to get it right.
"It's a long season. We'll hang in there and get ourselves as close to the top as soon as we can."
United's next test is the trip to the Stadum of Light to face managerless Sunderland.
Kevin Ball is taking charge of the Black Cats on a temporary basis and Moyes has warned his squad not to underestimate the struggling side.
"It's an important game," he noted. "We want to try and win it so we'll pick a team which we think can get a result.
"Kevin is very experienced. They look like they played quite well in the last two games."
Wayne Rooney is expected to be fit to face Sunderland on Saturday but Moyes admits that he is unsure of the latest on the striker's shin injury, adding: "I've not seen Wayne this morning so I couldn't give you an update yet."
David Moyes has again insisted that he is the right man to lead Manchester United after the club suffered their worst start to a season in 24 years.
The champions have lost three of their opening six Premier League games under the Scot and currently lie 12th in the standings with a return of just seven points.
But Moyes, who succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson's 26-and-a-half year reign in June, has confidence in his abilities and those of the United squad as he looks to climb at the table.
"I'm sure United know they picked the right man for the job and Sir Alex was part of that process as well," he told reporters on Friday.
"They're really good players. They know the standards they've set over the years - together we'll work to get it right.
"It's a long season. We'll hang in there and get ourselves as close to the top as soon as we can."
United's next test is the trip to the Stadum of Light to face managerless Sunderland.
Kevin Ball is taking charge of the Black Cats on a temporary basis and Moyes has warned his squad not to underestimate the struggling side.
"It's an important game," he noted. "We want to try and win it so we'll pick a team which we think can get a result.
"Kevin is very experienced. They look like they played quite well in the last two games."
Wayne Rooney is expected to be fit to face Sunderland on Saturday but Moyes admits that he is unsure of the latest on the striker's shin injury, adding: "I've not seen Wayne this morning so I couldn't give you an update yet."
Match eka gahai udin..Trust meI trust Man U players...Sure Moyes wade wana karagattata playersla wana karagannekak na...Specially Fellanige role eka maarama doubtful. eth RVP and Welbeck play karanone..Me match eka dinnoth Mid table eken ain wenawa MU..So hope for the best bro
Thank's bro
mamath loku wishwasayak thiyala thiyenne RVP,Roo,De Gea,Nani,Vidic,Rio,Carrick,Giggs & Januzaj gana
balamu kohomahari goda enna thamai one
mokakda ara karanne
He is the SAINT OF ESB.... People charmed IKER SAINT IKER SAINT once he made the saves..People love him like a hell
Mamath kamathima GK
Barclays Premier League 2013.10.05 Fixtures
Barclays Premier League 2013.10.05 Fixtures
Manchester City Vs Everton
Cardiff City Vs Newcastle United
Fulham Vs Stoke City
Hull City Vs Aston Villa
Liverpool Vs Crystal Palace
Sunderland Vs Manchester United
La Liga 2013.10.05 Fixtures
La Liga 2013.10.05 Fixtures
Elche Vs Espanyol
Rayo Vallecano Vs Real Sociedad
Levante Vs Real Madrid
Barcelona Vs Real Valladoid
Elche Vs Espanyol
Rayo Vallecano Vs Real Sociedad
Levante Vs Real Madrid
Barcelona Vs Real Valladoid
- Status
