Latest ads
-
Video Content Creator
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
QA Engineer Intern
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
Sell your Land, House on idamata.lk for FREE
- sajith.xp.pk
- Updated:
-
Handmade Character Soft Toys- anil1961
- Updated:
-
Bodim.lk out now !- Manoj Suranga Bandara
- Updated:
..::Football III::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
- Status
Sammer: Bayern not looking for excuses
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer insists he is not looking for excuses in the top-of-the-table clash between the Bavarians and Borussia Dortmund.
Both sides have had their injury problems since players have returned from international duty, with BVB missing a host of defenders, including Mats Hummels, Neven Subotic, Marcel Schmelzer and Lukasz Piszczek, while midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is also sidelined.
Bayern too have their injury setbacks to contend with. Bastian Schweinsteiger is out until 2014 and Franck Ribery cracked a rib whilst playing for France, but Sammer is adamant these injuries will take nothing away from Saturday's encounter.
"I would prefer, if there had been a complete game, with all the players of Borussia Dortmund versus Bayern Munich. Now there is too much talk about pity,” Sammer told Sky Sport News.
Ribery, who helped France overturn a 2-0 first-leg deficit against Ukraine to seal les Bleus' World Cup spot in Brazil next year, believes Pep Guardiola's men will cope fine on Saturday.
He added: "I'm sure that the team will play well without me."
Bayern can extend the gap at the top to seven points if they win against BVB and other results go their way this weekend.
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer insists he is not looking for excuses in the top-of-the-table clash between the Bavarians and Borussia Dortmund.
Both sides have had their injury problems since players have returned from international duty, with BVB missing a host of defenders, including Mats Hummels, Neven Subotic, Marcel Schmelzer and Lukasz Piszczek, while midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is also sidelined.
Bayern too have their injury setbacks to contend with. Bastian Schweinsteiger is out until 2014 and Franck Ribery cracked a rib whilst playing for France, but Sammer is adamant these injuries will take nothing away from Saturday's encounter.
"I would prefer, if there had been a complete game, with all the players of Borussia Dortmund versus Bayern Munich. Now there is too much talk about pity,” Sammer told Sky Sport News.
Ribery, who helped France overturn a 2-0 first-leg deficit against Ukraine to seal les Bleus' World Cup spot in Brazil next year, believes Pep Guardiola's men will cope fine on Saturday.
He added: "I'm sure that the team will play well without me."
Bayern can extend the gap at the top to seven points if they win against BVB and other results go their way this weekend.
Manchester United boss Moyes hopes to coach Ronaldo one day
Manchester United manager David Moyes still harbours hope of one day working with former Old Trafford star Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Real Madrid forward is being tipped to win the Ballon d'Or after helping Portugal secure a place in the 2014 World Cup by scoring four goals over two legs against Sweden, including a hat-trick away from home to continue an excellent start to the season for club and country.
Ronaldo, who left United for Madrid in 2009 in a world-record transfer, signed a new contract at the Bernabeu in September, keeping him at the club until 2018, but Moyes has not given up on coaching the 28-year-old.
"Everyone at Manchester United would tell you he is the best in the business anyway," Moyes told MUTV. "I have not been fortunate enough to work with him but there is still hope some day it might be possible."
Meanwhile, the United boss has also warned the club's Premier League title rivals that the reigning champions are finding form.
"I think that everybody knew what it would be like," he said. "We knew it would be a change of manager and we knew there would be problems no matter what, whether it be winning games, new personnel, but overall the players have been great.
"They have shown me what they can do. I’ve said many times Manchester United have shown over the years they have been pretty slow starters, my history at Everton I was a slow starter and hopefully we are beginning to find our feet and a bit of rhythm."
Manchester United manager David Moyes still harbours hope of one day working with former Old Trafford star Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Real Madrid forward is being tipped to win the Ballon d'Or after helping Portugal secure a place in the 2014 World Cup by scoring four goals over two legs against Sweden, including a hat-trick away from home to continue an excellent start to the season for club and country.
Ronaldo, who left United for Madrid in 2009 in a world-record transfer, signed a new contract at the Bernabeu in September, keeping him at the club until 2018, but Moyes has not given up on coaching the 28-year-old.
"Everyone at Manchester United would tell you he is the best in the business anyway," Moyes told MUTV. "I have not been fortunate enough to work with him but there is still hope some day it might be possible."
Meanwhile, the United boss has also warned the club's Premier League title rivals that the reigning champions are finding form.
"I think that everybody knew what it would be like," he said. "We knew it would be a change of manager and we knew there would be problems no matter what, whether it be winning games, new personnel, but overall the players have been great.
"They have shown me what they can do. I’ve said many times Manchester United have shown over the years they have been pretty slow starters, my history at Everton I was a slow starter and hopefully we are beginning to find our feet and a bit of rhythm."
Ajaccio 1-3 Marseille: Gignac stunner helps OM to victory
Andre-Pierre Gignac scored a superb goal as Marseille boosted their Champions
League hopes with a 3-1 win at Ajaccio.
Gignac, who had been left out of the Marseille starting XI by coach Elie Baup for their last four games in all competitions, was restored to the side after netting in the 2-1 win over Sochaux prior to the international break.
And it was a decision that proved crucial as the France international scored the visitors' second goal of the night in magnificent fashion.
Winger Dimitri Payet had opened the scoring for Marseille after 27 minutes, the former Lille man turning home Florian Thauvin's low right-wing cross with an emphatic finish.
Ajaccio levelled matters just four minutes later as Venezuelan defender Grenddy Perozo headed past Steve Mandanda from Johan Cavalli's free-kick.
But, Marseille regained the lead six minutes before the interval, Gignac finding the net with a spectacular volley into the top corner after he had shown great control to bring down Kassim Abdallah's cross.
From there Ajaccio were never able to re-establish a foothold in the game, and Marseille's victory was all but assured when Payet turned provider to set up Thauvin for a simple finish from point-blank range two minutes before the hour mark.
Marseille wasted further chances to increase their advantage in the latter stages of the second half, but it mattered not as they cruised home to secure a victory that does a great deal for their hopes of returning to the Champions League and plunges managerless Ajaccio further into the relegation mire.
Andre-Pierre Gignac scored a superb goal as Marseille boosted their Champions
League hopes with a 3-1 win at Ajaccio.
Gignac, who had been left out of the Marseille starting XI by coach Elie Baup for their last four games in all competitions, was restored to the side after netting in the 2-1 win over Sochaux prior to the international break.
And it was a decision that proved crucial as the France international scored the visitors' second goal of the night in magnificent fashion.
Winger Dimitri Payet had opened the scoring for Marseille after 27 minutes, the former Lille man turning home Florian Thauvin's low right-wing cross with an emphatic finish.
Ajaccio levelled matters just four minutes later as Venezuelan defender Grenddy Perozo headed past Steve Mandanda from Johan Cavalli's free-kick.
But, Marseille regained the lead six minutes before the interval, Gignac finding the net with a spectacular volley into the top corner after he had shown great control to bring down Kassim Abdallah's cross.
From there Ajaccio were never able to re-establish a foothold in the game, and Marseille's victory was all but assured when Payet turned provider to set up Thauvin for a simple finish from point-blank range two minutes before the hour mark.
Marseille wasted further chances to increase their advantage in the latter stages of the second half, but it mattered not as they cruised home to secure a victory that does a great deal for their hopes of returning to the Champions League and plunges managerless Ajaccio further into the relegation mire.
Stuttgart 0-2 Borussia Monchengladbach: Wendt strike clinches points
Borussia Monchengladbach tightened their grip on fourth place in the Bundesliga with a confident 2-0 win at Stuttgart on Friday.
Raffael gave Gladbach a deserved half-time lead after latching on to a neat pass from Patrick Herrmann, with Sweden international Oscar Wendt settling the result with a sweetly struck volley.
Lucien Favre made no changes to his Gladbach side that had beaten Nurnberg before the international break, while Antonio Rudiger replaced Karim Haggui in the hosts' defence.
Granit Xhaka was enterprising early on for the visitors but failed to test Sven Ulreich with two early long-range strikes.
Ulreich kept Raffael out as he advanced on goal in the 17th minute with Max Kruse wasting the rebound by hitting his shot into the side-netting.
But Raffael was not to be denied eight minutes before half-time, picking up Herrmann's reverse pass and holding off Rudiger's challenge before rounding Ulreich and slotting into the net.
Juan Arango and Kruse brought fine stops out of Ulreich after the break, but he had no answer in the 73rd minute as Wendt was afforded space on the edge of the area to power a bouncing ball home.
Victory for Gladbach was their second on the road this season and fourth in a row, leaving them four points clear of fifth-placed Wolfsburg ahead of the weekend, while Stuttgart could drop from eighth to 12th if results go against them.
Borussia Monchengladbach tightened their grip on fourth place in the Bundesliga with a confident 2-0 win at Stuttgart on Friday.
Raffael gave Gladbach a deserved half-time lead after latching on to a neat pass from Patrick Herrmann, with Sweden international Oscar Wendt settling the result with a sweetly struck volley.
Lucien Favre made no changes to his Gladbach side that had beaten Nurnberg before the international break, while Antonio Rudiger replaced Karim Haggui in the hosts' defence.
Granit Xhaka was enterprising early on for the visitors but failed to test Sven Ulreich with two early long-range strikes.
Ulreich kept Raffael out as he advanced on goal in the 17th minute with Max Kruse wasting the rebound by hitting his shot into the side-netting.
But Raffael was not to be denied eight minutes before half-time, picking up Herrmann's reverse pass and holding off Rudiger's challenge before rounding Ulreich and slotting into the net.
Juan Arango and Kruse brought fine stops out of Ulreich after the break, but he had no answer in the 73rd minute as Wendt was afforded space on the edge of the area to power a bouncing ball home.
Victory for Gladbach was their second on the road this season and fourth in a row, leaving them four points clear of fifth-placed Wolfsburg ahead of the weekend, while Stuttgart could drop from eighth to 12th if results go against them.
Juventus given clearance to play Vidal
Juventus have been given clearance by Fifa to play Arturo Vidal in this weekend's clash against Livorno.
The 26-year-old Chile international missed his country's encounters with England last Friday and Brazil on Tuesday, and as a result could have been declared ineligible to play for the Bianconeri this weekend because of the 'five-day rule', which states that a player cannot feature for his club for a minimum of five days if he missed international duty through injury.
Juve asked the Chile FA for special dispensation that would let Vidal play on Sunday but it refused, forcing the club to go straight to Fifa to request permission to play the midfielder.
Fifa has granted the request, which is a boost to Antonio Conte's men who are contemplating playing Vidal in defence as their backline is ravaged by injuries and suspensions.
Centre-backs Angelo Ogbonna and Leonardo Bonucci are suspended for the trip to Tuscany following the former's red card and the latter's fourth booking of the Serie A campaign against Napoli.
Stephan Lichtsteiner is out and Andrea Barzagli is struggling to be fit in time for the clash as he has muscular problems, which means Vidal could slot in beside Martin Caceres and Giorgio Chiellini, who has recovered from injury.
Juventus trail league leaders Roma by one point and are currently on a four-game winning run.
Juventus have been given clearance by Fifa to play Arturo Vidal in this weekend's clash against Livorno.
The 26-year-old Chile international missed his country's encounters with England last Friday and Brazil on Tuesday, and as a result could have been declared ineligible to play for the Bianconeri this weekend because of the 'five-day rule', which states that a player cannot feature for his club for a minimum of five days if he missed international duty through injury.
Juve asked the Chile FA for special dispensation that would let Vidal play on Sunday but it refused, forcing the club to go straight to Fifa to request permission to play the midfielder.
Fifa has granted the request, which is a boost to Antonio Conte's men who are contemplating playing Vidal in defence as their backline is ravaged by injuries and suspensions.
Centre-backs Angelo Ogbonna and Leonardo Bonucci are suspended for the trip to Tuscany following the former's red card and the latter's fourth booking of the Serie A campaign against Napoli.
Stephan Lichtsteiner is out and Andrea Barzagli is struggling to be fit in time for the clash as he has muscular problems, which means Vidal could slot in beside Martin Caceres and Giorgio Chiellini, who has recovered from injury.
Juventus trail league leaders Roma by one point and are currently on a four-game winning run.
Blatter: I still have my favourite
Fifa president Sepp Blatter has reaffirmed his admiration for Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo, but suggested that he still prefers Barcelona's Lionel Messi.
The 77-year-old came under heavy criticism for voicing his preference for Messi, saying the Portuguese “spends more time at the hairdresser”, with several figures quick to condemn the remarks.
Blatter has since apologised for his comments and gave a ringing endorsement of Ronaldo’s talents though he stopped short of retracting his preference for Messi.
“To me, he [Ronaldo] is still an outstanding player and an outstanding commander in the field,” he said. “But obviously each of us, in our heart, has our favourite.”
Blatter also took the opportunity to stress the organisation’s stance against racism after high-profile incidents against Yaya Toure and Mario Balotelli.
“One of the main objectives of Fifa is to combat racism,” he added. “Unfortunately, racism is not a game, but a reality. Racism itself cones from our society, and not football.”
Blatter is currently serving his fourth term as Fifa president, having held the post since 1998 and winning re-election in 2002, 2007 and 2011.
Fifa president Sepp Blatter has reaffirmed his admiration for Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo, but suggested that he still prefers Barcelona's Lionel Messi.
The 77-year-old came under heavy criticism for voicing his preference for Messi, saying the Portuguese “spends more time at the hairdresser”, with several figures quick to condemn the remarks.
Blatter has since apologised for his comments and gave a ringing endorsement of Ronaldo’s talents though he stopped short of retracting his preference for Messi.
“To me, he [Ronaldo] is still an outstanding player and an outstanding commander in the field,” he said. “But obviously each of us, in our heart, has our favourite.”
Blatter also took the opportunity to stress the organisation’s stance against racism after high-profile incidents against Yaya Toure and Mario Balotelli.
“One of the main objectives of Fifa is to combat racism,” he added. “Unfortunately, racism is not a game, but a reality. Racism itself cones from our society, and not football.”
Blatter is currently serving his fourth term as Fifa president, having held the post since 1998 and winning re-election in 2002, 2007 and 2011.
Pellegrini yet to decide on Hart return for Manchester City
Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini has yet to decide whether or not goalkeeper Joe Hart will be recalled for Sunday's visit of Tottenham.
The England No.1 lost his place to Romania international Costel Pantilimon before the international break, following a number of high-profile errors.
While Pellegrini was pleased to see Hart feature, and impress, in the Three Lions' friendly defeat to Germany on Tuesday, he refused to confirm if he would earn back his place in the City side.
The Chilean told reporters: "We will decide [on Saturday] the starting XI but I think it was very useful for Joe, the game for England.
"Joe played, for the last two-and-a-half years, all of the games in the Premier League. All of the players are human and they can all have a bad moment."
Despite being beaten by Germany at Wembley, Pellegrini feels that it was vital for Hart to play for England in order to remain sharp.
"It was very important for him to play with England," the former Malaga boss added. "The game against Germany was important, a good test for him.
"What did I think of his performance for England? I think he did very well. It's one thing you ask me about the national team, another thing to ask about Manchester City."
Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini has yet to decide whether or not goalkeeper Joe Hart will be recalled for Sunday's visit of Tottenham.
The England No.1 lost his place to Romania international Costel Pantilimon before the international break, following a number of high-profile errors.
While Pellegrini was pleased to see Hart feature, and impress, in the Three Lions' friendly defeat to Germany on Tuesday, he refused to confirm if he would earn back his place in the City side.
The Chilean told reporters: "We will decide [on Saturday] the starting XI but I think it was very useful for Joe, the game for England.
"Joe played, for the last two-and-a-half years, all of the games in the Premier League. All of the players are human and they can all have a bad moment."
Despite being beaten by Germany at Wembley, Pellegrini feels that it was vital for Hart to play for England in order to remain sharp.
"It was very important for him to play with England," the former Malaga boss added. "The game against Germany was important, a good test for him.
"What did I think of his performance for England? I think he did very well. It's one thing you ask me about the national team, another thing to ask about Manchester City."
United need to keep up form - Moyes
Manchester United manager David Moyes says that his side will be looking to pick up from where they left off before the international break when they face Cardiff City.
The Red Devils have won six and drawn three of their last nine games in all competitions including a 1-0 victory over league leaders Arsenal last time out.
"We came off a couple of good results and sometimes you want the games to come thick and fast," Moyes told the press. "You can't do anything about the international break, whether you win or lose going into it.
"We're on a good run of form, we're feeling good at the moment, we have confidence about us and we want to try and keep that going.
"I never thought we were out of [the title race]. We just go about our job and try to win each game."
United may field captain Nemanja Vidic when they travel to Wales. The Serbian was substituted with concussion during their 1-0 win over Arsenal but his manager says that he has recovered carefully.
"Concussion is something which you do need to rest [but] he's had his rest and we'll bring him back and hopefully he'll be fine," Moyes remarked. "It's not a serious injury.
"Concussion can be extremely serious but he had a week off afterwards and we've given him a chance to recover. We’ve picked him up slowly from there."
Red Devils star Michael Carrick sealed a new contract until at least 2015 on Friday – as exclusively revealed by Goal in October – and the Scot was effusive in praising his charge.
"He's recognised throughout the country as a great midfielder," Moyes enthused. "I'd be surprised if he's not in England's World Cup squad."
Manchester United manager David Moyes says that his side will be looking to pick up from where they left off before the international break when they face Cardiff City.
The Red Devils have won six and drawn three of their last nine games in all competitions including a 1-0 victory over league leaders Arsenal last time out.
"We came off a couple of good results and sometimes you want the games to come thick and fast," Moyes told the press. "You can't do anything about the international break, whether you win or lose going into it.
"We're on a good run of form, we're feeling good at the moment, we have confidence about us and we want to try and keep that going.
"I never thought we were out of [the title race]. We just go about our job and try to win each game."
United may field captain Nemanja Vidic when they travel to Wales. The Serbian was substituted with concussion during their 1-0 win over Arsenal but his manager says that he has recovered carefully.
"Concussion is something which you do need to rest [but] he's had his rest and we'll bring him back and hopefully he'll be fine," Moyes remarked. "It's not a serious injury.
"Concussion can be extremely serious but he had a week off afterwards and we've given him a chance to recover. We’ve picked him up slowly from there."
Red Devils star Michael Carrick sealed a new contract until at least 2015 on Friday – as exclusively revealed by Goal in October – and the Scot was effusive in praising his charge.
"He's recognised throughout the country as a great midfielder," Moyes enthused. "I'd be surprised if he's not in England's World Cup squad."
Villas-Boas rules out left-back swoop
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has ruled out signing a left-back in the January transfer window despite Danny Rose's continued absence through injury.
Goal exclusively revealed in October that the Portuguese is expected not to spend in January despite having a £40 million warchest available and, when asked if he might buy a replacement in the winter, he told a pre-match press conference: "No, I don't think so."
Rose is not expected to return from a foot injury for "two or three weeks" and Villas-Boas concedes that he has injury problems ahead of Sunday's clash with Manchester City.
"Danny Rose is still out but making good progress on his injury so we're looking for a two-or-three-week period now finally for his return," the head coach remarked.
"[Christian] Eriksen is obviously out, hopefully only for four weeks, due to his injury for Denmark. The rest of the team is back in training – [Vlad] Chiriches, [Nacer] Chadli, Etienne [Capoue] and now Zeki Fryers. All of the team is in contention to be selected for the game.
"Everyone is working extremely well so [on Saturday] we will make the selection but we had a good week – long for the people who stayed, short for the ones that came back from international duty. We just want to recover as soon as possible."
Spurs go into the game just a point ahead of Manuel Pellegrini's men and Villas-Boas is wary of the attacking potential available to the Chilean.
"Their goal tally is absolutely incredible, including their last big result against Norwich [which City won 7-0]," he added.
"We have to take their striking force into account, the players they have in attack, players that have been extraordinary this season like Yaya [Toure] and Fernandinho. We're unsure whether [David] Silva will return to the team or not but their attacking force is tremendous.
"Obviously they have been suffering a couple of problems at the back but still they are a well-organised side and they don't concede a lot and they have a good organisation about them, so it's a tough challenge.
"Last season we took it to the dying stages of the game - we lost but had the game in our hands to win so we go there to play the game and to try to get the result."
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has ruled out signing a left-back in the January transfer window despite Danny Rose's continued absence through injury.
Goal exclusively revealed in October that the Portuguese is expected not to spend in January despite having a £40 million warchest available and, when asked if he might buy a replacement in the winter, he told a pre-match press conference: "No, I don't think so."
Rose is not expected to return from a foot injury for "two or three weeks" and Villas-Boas concedes that he has injury problems ahead of Sunday's clash with Manchester City.
"Danny Rose is still out but making good progress on his injury so we're looking for a two-or-three-week period now finally for his return," the head coach remarked.
"[Christian] Eriksen is obviously out, hopefully only for four weeks, due to his injury for Denmark. The rest of the team is back in training – [Vlad] Chiriches, [Nacer] Chadli, Etienne [Capoue] and now Zeki Fryers. All of the team is in contention to be selected for the game.
"Everyone is working extremely well so [on Saturday] we will make the selection but we had a good week – long for the people who stayed, short for the ones that came back from international duty. We just want to recover as soon as possible."
Spurs go into the game just a point ahead of Manuel Pellegrini's men and Villas-Boas is wary of the attacking potential available to the Chilean.
"Their goal tally is absolutely incredible, including their last big result against Norwich [which City won 7-0]," he added.
"We have to take their striking force into account, the players they have in attack, players that have been extraordinary this season like Yaya [Toure] and Fernandinho. We're unsure whether [David] Silva will return to the team or not but their attacking force is tremendous.
"Obviously they have been suffering a couple of problems at the back but still they are a well-organised side and they don't concede a lot and they have a good organisation about them, so it's a tough challenge.
"Last season we took it to the dying stages of the game - we lost but had the game in our hands to win so we go there to play the game and to try to get the result."
Ancelotti unhappy with Spain friendlies
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has slammed Spain’s friendly schedule, having seen many of his star players travel to Africa during the recent international break.
La Roja played their last matches of 2013 against Equatorial Guinea and South Africa over the last week, but with injuries mounting at the Bernabeu, the Italian questioned the benefit of long-haul travel mid-season.
“I think that the decision [of the Spanish Football Federation] was not good because the players stayed three nights in a plane,” he said at a press conference.
“It is difficult to talk about this. We are fortunate that there are no more national team matches until March. Luckily we have not had a problem. Improved organisation can help teams avoid injury.”
One casualty of the international break was midfielder Sami Khedira, who tore his anterior cruciate ligament during Germany’s 1-1 draw with Italy and is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines, but Ancelotti feels his side can cope with his absence.
“[Asier] Illarramendi and Xabi [Alonso] can play together. They have played many times as a double pivot and had no problems,” he explained.
“Casemiro has also not played since September, but he’s at optimal fitness and is well motivated. We can use him, or an Illarramendi-Alonso double pivot, or Casemiro-Alonso, or Alonso and Isco. I'll decide tomorrow.”
The 54-year-old also touched on the fitness of Raphael Varane, who was hampered by a knee problem during both legs of France’s play-off victory against Ukraine.
“He [Varane] has a problem with his knee. We are monitoring what’s going on with the player and the surgeon,” he continued.
“It is normal for a player who has suffered these types of injury problems, but we need to fix it because we need him back 100 per cent.”
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has slammed Spain’s friendly schedule, having seen many of his star players travel to Africa during the recent international break.
La Roja played their last matches of 2013 against Equatorial Guinea and South Africa over the last week, but with injuries mounting at the Bernabeu, the Italian questioned the benefit of long-haul travel mid-season.
“I think that the decision [of the Spanish Football Federation] was not good because the players stayed three nights in a plane,” he said at a press conference.
“It is difficult to talk about this. We are fortunate that there are no more national team matches until March. Luckily we have not had a problem. Improved organisation can help teams avoid injury.”
One casualty of the international break was midfielder Sami Khedira, who tore his anterior cruciate ligament during Germany’s 1-1 draw with Italy and is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines, but Ancelotti feels his side can cope with his absence.
“[Asier] Illarramendi and Xabi [Alonso] can play together. They have played many times as a double pivot and had no problems,” he explained.
“Casemiro has also not played since September, but he’s at optimal fitness and is well motivated. We can use him, or an Illarramendi-Alonso double pivot, or Casemiro-Alonso, or Alonso and Isco. I'll decide tomorrow.”
The 54-year-old also touched on the fitness of Raphael Varane, who was hampered by a knee problem during both legs of France’s play-off victory against Ukraine.
“He [Varane] has a problem with his knee. We are monitoring what’s going on with the player and the surgeon,” he continued.
“It is normal for a player who has suffered these types of injury problems, but we need to fix it because we need him back 100 per cent.”
Higuain: I want to make history at Napoli
Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain is aiming to “make history” with his new club following his good form since his big-money move from Real Madrid in July.
The Argentine striker was signed for a fee of €37 million to replace Paris Saint-Germain-bound Edinson Cavani and has hit the ground running at San Paolo, with eight goals in his first 14 games for the club.
And with Napoli only four points off Serie A leaders Roma in third and in contention to qualify for the knockout rounds of the Champions League, Higuain believes that the time has come to get the Partenopei back to the top of the football landscape.
“I’m here to win and make history for the club,” he said at a press conference. “We are not yet top, but I’m sure that we will get there soon. I’ve come to Naples for the project.”
The 25-year-old also took time to praise coach Rafa Benitez and the Napoli fans, who he felt gave him the motivation to challenge for honours.“The coach gives me confidence and I find it good to play on this team,” he
continued.
“It’s [also] great to play for the fans, who live football. I’m very happy, and I have to think about doing as well as I did before to make our fans happy.”
Napoli host Parma on Saturday in the league, before traveling to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, where a point could see them qualify for the round of 16.
While Higuain understands that both games are crucial to the club’s push for silverware, he maintains his belief that he should take each fixture one game at a time.
“We think about Parma first, where we have to win to stay [in contention] for first place, then we will focus on the challenge of Dortmund, which is very important.
"It is true that the championship is long, but we need to win so that we go to Dortmund with hope.”
The striker concluded by reassuring fans about his physical condition, despite suspicions of injury and fatigue after exertions in the United States midweek on international duty with Argentina.
“We have made a long journey for many hours and are a little tired, we even played in a no-good pitch [versus Ecuador]. We are, however, always available to the coach. My foot problems are also better now, it seems okay.”
Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain is aiming to “make history” with his new club following his good form since his big-money move from Real Madrid in July.
The Argentine striker was signed for a fee of €37 million to replace Paris Saint-Germain-bound Edinson Cavani and has hit the ground running at San Paolo, with eight goals in his first 14 games for the club.
And with Napoli only four points off Serie A leaders Roma in third and in contention to qualify for the knockout rounds of the Champions League, Higuain believes that the time has come to get the Partenopei back to the top of the football landscape.
“I’m here to win and make history for the club,” he said at a press conference. “We are not yet top, but I’m sure that we will get there soon. I’ve come to Naples for the project.”
The 25-year-old also took time to praise coach Rafa Benitez and the Napoli fans, who he felt gave him the motivation to challenge for honours.“The coach gives me confidence and I find it good to play on this team,” he
continued.
“It’s [also] great to play for the fans, who live football. I’m very happy, and I have to think about doing as well as I did before to make our fans happy.”
Napoli host Parma on Saturday in the league, before traveling to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, where a point could see them qualify for the round of 16.
While Higuain understands that both games are crucial to the club’s push for silverware, he maintains his belief that he should take each fixture one game at a time.
“We think about Parma first, where we have to win to stay [in contention] for first place, then we will focus on the challenge of Dortmund, which is very important.
"It is true that the championship is long, but we need to win so that we go to Dortmund with hope.”
The striker concluded by reassuring fans about his physical condition, despite suspicions of injury and fatigue after exertions in the United States midweek on international duty with Argentina.
“We have made a long journey for many hours and are a little tired, we even played in a no-good pitch [versus Ecuador]. We are, however, always available to the coach. My foot problems are also better now, it seems okay.”
Alonso: Khedira injury a huge shock
Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has admitted that Sami Khedira's injury came as a huge shock to the rest of the squad.
The 26-year-old suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament after colliding with Andrea Pirlo in Germany's 1-1 draw with Italy last Friday and is now facing at least six months out of action.
There has been speculation that Khedira could even miss next summer's World Cup in Brazil but Alonso believes that his team-mate will make a rapid recovery.
"Khedira’s injury came as a shock to us," Alonso told reporters at an Adidas event.
"We were waiting to hear what had happened for a few hours because we weren’t sure how serious the injury was. After that, the worst was confirmed.
"However, he’s very German and very stubborn, so I’m sure he’ll be back sooner than expected. He was playing really well, very happy in his position, and this is terrible news."
Khedira has made 11 Liga appearances for Madrid this season, scoring once in the process.
Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has admitted that Sami Khedira's injury came as a huge shock to the rest of the squad.
The 26-year-old suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament after colliding with Andrea Pirlo in Germany's 1-1 draw with Italy last Friday and is now facing at least six months out of action.
There has been speculation that Khedira could even miss next summer's World Cup in Brazil but Alonso believes that his team-mate will make a rapid recovery.
"Khedira’s injury came as a shock to us," Alonso told reporters at an Adidas event.
"We were waiting to hear what had happened for a few hours because we weren’t sure how serious the injury was. After that, the worst was confirmed.
"However, he’s very German and very stubborn, so I’m sure he’ll be back sooner than expected. He was playing really well, very happy in his position, and this is terrible news."
Khedira has made 11 Liga appearances for Madrid this season, scoring once in the process.
Romania ban Mutu for Mr Bean gag
Adrian Mutu's Romania career looks to be over after he was banned from representing his country for posting of a controversial image on his Facebook page.
The striker uploaded a picture of national team boss Victor Piturca to the online social networking site, with the coach's head replaced by that of the fictional TV character Mr Bean.
Mutu was quick to remove the doctored image, but not before the Romanian FA had made note of the offence and then informed the Ajaccio man of their decision to end his international career.
The 34-year-old forward was not selected in the squad for Romania's 4-2 aggregate defeat to Greece in their World cup qualification play-off and now appears to have played his last game for the national team.
Mutu's career has never been short of controversy. He was taken to court by former club Chelsea in relation to a positive drugs test.
Adrian Mutu's Romania career looks to be over after he was banned from representing his country for posting of a controversial image on his Facebook page.
The striker uploaded a picture of national team boss Victor Piturca to the online social networking site, with the coach's head replaced by that of the fictional TV character Mr Bean.
Mutu was quick to remove the doctored image, but not before the Romanian FA had made note of the offence and then informed the Ajaccio man of their decision to end his international career.
The 34-year-old forward was not selected in the squad for Romania's 4-2 aggregate defeat to Greece in their World cup qualification play-off and now appears to have played his last game for the national team.
Mutu's career has never been short of controversy. He was taken to court by former club Chelsea in relation to a positive drugs test.
Carrick signs new two-year Manchester United deal
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has signed a new contract with the club until 2015, with the option of a further year.
Goal exclusively revealed in October that the 32-year-old was set for a new deal as he is keen to finish his career at Old Trafford.
And now United have confirmed that Carrick has put pen to paper on a deal which commits him to the club for at least another two seasons.
"It is great to extend my contract at this great club," Carrick told the club's official website. "I am really enjoying my football.
"The club has gone through a few changes and working under David Moyes has been fantastic. I have won many trophies in my years playing here and I am looking forward to achieving more in the future."
Moyes added: "I am delighted Michael has extended his contract. During my short time at the club it hasn’t been hard to notice that Michael is a great reader of the game and has excellent passing ability.
"He is an exceptional man and a true professional and it’s great that he has committed himself to the club."
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has signed a new contract with the club until 2015, with the option of a further year.
Goal exclusively revealed in October that the 32-year-old was set for a new deal as he is keen to finish his career at Old Trafford.
And now United have confirmed that Carrick has put pen to paper on a deal which commits him to the club for at least another two seasons.
"It is great to extend my contract at this great club," Carrick told the club's official website. "I am really enjoying my football.
"The club has gone through a few changes and working under David Moyes has been fantastic. I have won many trophies in my years playing here and I am looking forward to achieving more in the future."
Moyes added: "I am delighted Michael has extended his contract. During my short time at the club it hasn’t been hard to notice that Michael is a great reader of the game and has excellent passing ability.
"He is an exceptional man and a true professional and it’s great that he has committed himself to the club."
Wenger denies Oxlade-Chamberlain injury setback
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has rubbished reports that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has suffered a fresh setback in his recovery from a knee injury, insisting he will return in a month.
The England international has not featured for the Gunners since picking up a knee injury during the Premier League opening-day defeat to Aston Villa.
Recent reports had suggested the 20-year-old's return had been put back until the New Year, but Wenger insists he will be back in action before Christmas.
"Oxlade-Chamberlain has not had a setback," he told reporters. "He is one month away from competition."
Wenger also revealed that Jack Wilshere's troublesome ankles will continue to require constant monitoring for the foreseeable future as he looks to ease the midfielder back into the team.
"Wilshere will have to be managed," the Frenchman added. "If there's an alert on his ankle, we'll take advice from the medical team."
Arsenal return to Premier League action against Southampton at the Emirates on Saturday afternoon.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has rubbished reports that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has suffered a fresh setback in his recovery from a knee injury, insisting he will return in a month.
The England international has not featured for the Gunners since picking up a knee injury during the Premier League opening-day defeat to Aston Villa.
Recent reports had suggested the 20-year-old's return had been put back until the New Year, but Wenger insists he will be back in action before Christmas.
"Oxlade-Chamberlain has not had a setback," he told reporters. "He is one month away from competition."
Wenger also revealed that Jack Wilshere's troublesome ankles will continue to require constant monitoring for the foreseeable future as he looks to ease the midfielder back into the team.
"Wilshere will have to be managed," the Frenchman added. "If there's an alert on his ankle, we'll take advice from the medical team."
Arsenal return to Premier League action against Southampton at the Emirates on Saturday afternoon.
Barclays Premier League 2013.11.23 Fixtures
Barclays Premier League 2013.11.23 Fixtures
Everton Vs Liverpool
Arsenal Vs Southampton
Fulham Vs Swansea
Hull City Vs Crystal Palace
Newcastle United Vs Norwich
Stoke City Vs Sunderland
West Ham Vs Chelsea
La Liga 2013.11.23 Fixtures
La Liga 2013.11.23 Fixtures
Barcelona Vs Granada
Real Sociedad Vs Celta Vigo
Almeria Vs Real Madrid
Atletico Madrid Vs Getafe
Barcelona Vs Granada
Real Sociedad Vs Celta Vigo
Almeria Vs Real Madrid
Atletico Madrid Vs Getafe
Serie A 2013.11.23 Fixtures
Serie A 2013.11.23 Fixtures
Hallas Verona Vs Chievo Verona
AC Milan Vs Genoa
Napoli Vs Parma
Hallas Verona Vs Chievo Verona
AC Milan Vs Genoa
Napoli Vs Parma
Barclays Premier League 2013.11.23 Fixtures
Everton Vs Liverpool
Arsenal Vs Southampton
- Status
