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Wenger: Arsenal tried to sign Pogba
Arsene Wenger has revealed Arsenal attempted to sign Paul Pogba from Manchester United prior to him joining Serie A giants Juventus.
The France international left Old Trafford in 2012 having made just three first-team appearances, but has matured into one of the world's most sought after players following his showings in Serie A.
And Wenger has admitted the 21-year-old was on his radar as a teenager, but his age meant a deal was difficult to push through.
Wenger told BeIn Sport: "We were interested by Pogba when he was at Manchester. We tried to get him, but it was complicated. I was surprised to see Manchester let him go. We did not have the right to contact him."
The Gunners have struggled in the centre of midfield in recent years, with Abou Diaby's persistent injury problems proving an issue for Wenger.
Diaby has made just two appearances since March 2013, but Wenger believes the former Auxerre man has shown great character to continue coming back and trying to regain his full fitness.
He continued: "Diaby hasn't a mental problem, but a problem of injury. He is a player for whom I have great respect.
"Whenever he returns, he is injured and goes from zero. He was destroyed by a bad tackle. The soccer player needs the mobility of his ankle. When your ankle mobility is restricted, you compensate with something else.
"He suffered from a very bad tackle in Sunderland six or seven years ago. A tackle murderer who was never punished. It has restricted the mobility of the ankle.
"If he comes back, I'll keep him. I always believed in him. In football, the most important thing is health."
Arsene Wenger has revealed Arsenal attempted to sign Paul Pogba from Manchester United prior to him joining Serie A giants Juventus.
The France international left Old Trafford in 2012 having made just three first-team appearances, but has matured into one of the world's most sought after players following his showings in Serie A.
And Wenger has admitted the 21-year-old was on his radar as a teenager, but his age meant a deal was difficult to push through.
Wenger told BeIn Sport: "We were interested by Pogba when he was at Manchester. We tried to get him, but it was complicated. I was surprised to see Manchester let him go. We did not have the right to contact him."
The Gunners have struggled in the centre of midfield in recent years, with Abou Diaby's persistent injury problems proving an issue for Wenger.
Diaby has made just two appearances since March 2013, but Wenger believes the former Auxerre man has shown great character to continue coming back and trying to regain his full fitness.
He continued: "Diaby hasn't a mental problem, but a problem of injury. He is a player for whom I have great respect.
"Whenever he returns, he is injured and goes from zero. He was destroyed by a bad tackle. The soccer player needs the mobility of his ankle. When your ankle mobility is restricted, you compensate with something else.
"He suffered from a very bad tackle in Sunderland six or seven years ago. A tackle murderer who was never punished. It has restricted the mobility of the ankle.
"If he comes back, I'll keep him. I always believed in him. In football, the most important thing is health."
Blind injured wela neh6 weeks out
Get well soon Blind!
So does Modric..Animo Modric
Wenger: Arsenal tried to sign Pogba
Arsene Wenger has revealed Arsenal attempted to sign Paul Pogba from Manchester United prior to him joining Serie A giants Juventus.
The France international left Old Trafford in 2012 having made just three first-team appearances, but has matured into one of the world's most sought after players following his showings in Serie A.
And Wenger has admitted the 21-year-old was on his radar as a teenager, but his age meant a deal was difficult to push through.
Wenger told BeIn Sport: "We were interested by Pogba when he was at Manchester. We tried to get him, but it was complicated. I was surprised to see Manchester let him go. We did not have the right to contact him."
The Gunners have struggled in the centre of midfield in recent years, with Abou Diaby's persistent injury problems proving an issue for Wenger.
Diaby has made just two appearances since March 2013, but Wenger believes the former Auxerre man has shown great character to continue coming back and trying to regain his full fitness.
He continued: "Diaby hasn't a mental problem, but a problem of injury. He is a player for whom I have great respect.
"Whenever he returns, he is injured and goes from zero. He was destroyed by a bad tackle. The soccer player needs the mobility of his ankle. When your ankle mobility is restricted, you compensate with something else.
"He suffered from a very bad tackle in Sunderland six or seven years ago. A tackle murderer who was never punished. It has restricted the mobility of the ankle.
"If he comes back, I'll keep him. I always believed in him. In football, the most important thing is health."
PUKBA
Di Maria's slump in form at Manchester United is normal - Martino
Argentina coach Gerardo Martino believes Angel Di Maria's current performances are being too harshly scrutinised because of his brilliant start to life at Manchester United.
The Argentine moved to Old Trafford from Real Madrid in the summer and hit the ground running under Louis van Gaal, contributing three goals and four assists in his first six Premier League games.
However, Martino suggests his early form was characteristic of a longer-serving player and that the dip in form is just natural for a player adapting to a new league.
Speaking ahead of Argentina's clash with Portugal at Old Trafford, Martino said: "I have to say that Angel is one of the very top players in world football.
"His start was exceptional and the fact that generally when players go to a new club and have to get used to a new league, a new team, a different style of football and different team-mates.
"I think the form that he is showing now is possibly more typical of a player going to a new club than the very first few games when he burst onto the scene and did so well."
Martino went on to praise the 26-year-old's versatility, something he witnessed first hand when in charge of Barcelona in 2013-14.
"With regards to his position, I would say that Angel is the type of player who can play a number of different roles expertly," he added.
"You only have to look a few seasons back when he played on the right side for Real Madrid and in the season just gone, he featured more on the inside-left, in a free role.
"Obviously, in the World Cup, he did very well when he played wide left so really, in terms of positioning, he can adapt to anywhere where the manager asks him to play."
Argentina coach Gerardo Martino believes Angel Di Maria's current performances are being too harshly scrutinised because of his brilliant start to life at Manchester United.
The Argentine moved to Old Trafford from Real Madrid in the summer and hit the ground running under Louis van Gaal, contributing three goals and four assists in his first six Premier League games.
However, Martino suggests his early form was characteristic of a longer-serving player and that the dip in form is just natural for a player adapting to a new league.
Speaking ahead of Argentina's clash with Portugal at Old Trafford, Martino said: "I have to say that Angel is one of the very top players in world football.
"His start was exceptional and the fact that generally when players go to a new club and have to get used to a new league, a new team, a different style of football and different team-mates.
"I think the form that he is showing now is possibly more typical of a player going to a new club than the very first few games when he burst onto the scene and did so well."
Martino went on to praise the 26-year-old's versatility, something he witnessed first hand when in charge of Barcelona in 2013-14.
"With regards to his position, I would say that Angel is the type of player who can play a number of different roles expertly," he added.
"You only have to look a few seasons back when he played on the right side for Real Madrid and in the season just gone, he featured more on the inside-left, in a free role.
"Obviously, in the World Cup, he did very well when he played wide left so really, in terms of positioning, he can adapt to anywhere where the manager asks him to play."
AC Milan tried to sign Totti - Galliani
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has revealed that the club once tried to sign Francesco Totti, but admitted that it was "impossible" to convince him to leave Roma.
The attacker has gone on to become a legend at the capital club, winning five trophies in the 22 seasons he has spent in the first team - the only professional side he has ever played for.
And Galliani has revealed that while the 38-year-old was in the youth system with the Giallorossi, Milan tried to pry him away from Stadio Olimpico."We tried to take Totti when he was a boy, he knows it too," he told reporters. "But we didn't succeed. We realised immediately that it was impossible to get him to leave Roma."
Last week, rival club Inter sacked coach Walter Mazzarri after a poor start, hiring Roberto Mancini as his replacement. The Nerazzurri sit just one point above Milan after 11 games and Galliani insists Filippo Inzaghi, still in his first season as Rossoneri head coach, is in no such trouble.
"He is in a very different situation from that which Mazzarri was in. Pippo is much loved by the fans and I don't think that we will have problems with him."
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has revealed that the club once tried to sign Francesco Totti, but admitted that it was "impossible" to convince him to leave Roma.
The attacker has gone on to become a legend at the capital club, winning five trophies in the 22 seasons he has spent in the first team - the only professional side he has ever played for.
And Galliani has revealed that while the 38-year-old was in the youth system with the Giallorossi, Milan tried to pry him away from Stadio Olimpico."We tried to take Totti when he was a boy, he knows it too," he told reporters. "But we didn't succeed. We realised immediately that it was impossible to get him to leave Roma."
Last week, rival club Inter sacked coach Walter Mazzarri after a poor start, hiring Roberto Mancini as his replacement. The Nerazzurri sit just one point above Milan after 11 games and Galliani insists Filippo Inzaghi, still in his first season as Rossoneri head coach, is in no such trouble.
"He is in a very different situation from that which Mazzarri was in. Pippo is much loved by the fans and I don't think that we will have problems with him."
Dunga: My selection options have soared
Brazil boss Dunga says his selection options have "soared", as he can field several different line-ups without affecting the strength of his side.
The Selecao coach has stuck with the same line-up that routed Turkey 4-0 last week for Tuesday night's friendly with Austria in Vienna in the latest leg of the Gillette Brasil Global Tour.
However, Dunga, who selected a European-based squad for Brazil's final fixtures of the year to allow his domestic stars to focus on the conclusion of the Brazilian season, insists he could have made a number of changes without weakening the team."[Against Turkey] I took off Willian, who was having a great game, and put on Douglas Costa," the 51-year-old trainer told reporters on Monday.
"I also took off Oscar and put on [Philippe] Coutinho. Both Costa and Coutinho played very well."As did [Roberto] Firmino, Fred and Casemiro, who also came on. They sent their message that they're ready to play.
"In the Selecao now, training is close to the level of games."Moreover, with so many young players, they do not stop running and want to train even harder.
"Each player is seeking a place in the team and they thus participate in every practice session as if they were playing in a competitive match."So, I now have more doubts in my head about my team. The group of players that could be called for the next games has soared."
Brazil's meeting with Austria is scheduled to kick off at the Ernest Happel Stadion at 19:00 CET.
Brazil boss Dunga says his selection options have "soared", as he can field several different line-ups without affecting the strength of his side.
The Selecao coach has stuck with the same line-up that routed Turkey 4-0 last week for Tuesday night's friendly with Austria in Vienna in the latest leg of the Gillette Brasil Global Tour.
However, Dunga, who selected a European-based squad for Brazil's final fixtures of the year to allow his domestic stars to focus on the conclusion of the Brazilian season, insists he could have made a number of changes without weakening the team."[Against Turkey] I took off Willian, who was having a great game, and put on Douglas Costa," the 51-year-old trainer told reporters on Monday.
"I also took off Oscar and put on [Philippe] Coutinho. Both Costa and Coutinho played very well."As did [Roberto] Firmino, Fred and Casemiro, who also came on. They sent their message that they're ready to play.
"In the Selecao now, training is close to the level of games."Moreover, with so many young players, they do not stop running and want to train even harder.
"Each player is seeking a place in the team and they thus participate in every practice session as if they were playing in a competitive match."So, I now have more doubts in my head about my team. The group of players that could be called for the next games has soared."
Brazil's meeting with Austria is scheduled to kick off at the Ernest Happel Stadion at 19:00 CET.
Ronaldo has more beauty products me! - Stephanie Roche
Puskas Award nominee Stephanie Roche says she is not as vain as Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting the Real Madrid star carries more beauty products than her.
The Portuguese forward has long been seen as one of the more conceited players in the world's game.On Monday, Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer mocked the two-time Ballon d'Or winner's tendency to pose in his underwear in adverts.
The attacker has also been ridiculed by Cathy Fischer, the wife of Mats Hummels, for his lack of body hair.
And Roche, who plays for Ireland women's team and has been nominated for Fifa's 2014 Puskas Award, has taken a pop at the star, insisting he has more grooming products than she does."I don't think I am vain as Ronaldo," she told ESPN Brasil. "He has more beauty products than me in his toilet bag!"
The 25-year-old went on to talk about her nomination for the best goal award, having been included on the shortlist alongside the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, James Rodriguez and Diego Costa.
"I've scored a lot of goals, but honestly, I think this was probably the most beautiful I've ever scored. I heard rumors that I might be nominated for the Puskas Award, but never thought would be."
Puskas Award nominee Stephanie Roche says she is not as vain as Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting the Real Madrid star carries more beauty products than her.
The Portuguese forward has long been seen as one of the more conceited players in the world's game.On Monday, Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer mocked the two-time Ballon d'Or winner's tendency to pose in his underwear in adverts.
The attacker has also been ridiculed by Cathy Fischer, the wife of Mats Hummels, for his lack of body hair.
And Roche, who plays for Ireland women's team and has been nominated for Fifa's 2014 Puskas Award, has taken a pop at the star, insisting he has more grooming products than she does."I don't think I am vain as Ronaldo," she told ESPN Brasil. "He has more beauty products than me in his toilet bag!"
The 25-year-old went on to talk about her nomination for the best goal award, having been included on the shortlist alongside the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, James Rodriguez and Diego Costa.
"I've scored a lot of goals, but honestly, I think this was probably the most beautiful I've ever scored. I heard rumors that I might be nominated for the Puskas Award, but never thought would be."
Thiago Silva: Neymar is like my little brother
Thiago Silva and Neymar have insisted that there is no longer any issue between them over the Brazil captaincy.
The 30-year-old Thiago Silva led the Selecao at World Cup 2014 but he missed his country's next four games through injury, prompting new coach Dunga to give the armband to Neymar.
Thiago Silva admitted on Sunday that he was unhappy with having been relieved of the captaincy but he has now insisted that his words were misinterpreted and that he has since cleared the air with both his coach and his skipper.
"I saw it differently to the way it came out," he told reporters on Monday. "But, most importantly, I was speaking with a clear conscience."Things are fine with Neymar and Dunga. I had to clarify some things. Some things that were said that were not true. Neymar understood my intention.
"[The controversy] is sad because we have a sibling relationship. He is like my younger brother. And that will not change. I said this to him."This will not end our relationship."
Neymar supported Thiago Silva's claim that the pair remain friends, but did confess that he had reminded his colleague to be more careful when it comes to speaking to the press.
"I was surprised by the statement," the Barcelona attacker admitted. "I said to him and to all of the players that we need to be careful with what we say."He called me for a chat, but this has not affected our friendship.
"He clarified what he had said was not exactly what came out. It's all good now."They said that we were feuding, that we were not speaking. But that's not true.
"We've talked. Sometimes when we say something it can be interpreted in another way, but this is a complicated situation."We have a hierarchy and the boss here is our coach and we know that what he said is what he said.
"Me and Thiago have no issues. We are good friends and this will not hurt our friendship."We are two men and we know what is best for us and for the group, but nothing have affected our friendship."
Neymar will be hoping to lead Brazil to a sixth successive victory since the World Cup when they play Austria in Vienna on Tuesday evening in what is their final Gillette Brasil Global Tour outing of the year.
Thiago Silva and Neymar have insisted that there is no longer any issue between them over the Brazil captaincy.
The 30-year-old Thiago Silva led the Selecao at World Cup 2014 but he missed his country's next four games through injury, prompting new coach Dunga to give the armband to Neymar.
Thiago Silva admitted on Sunday that he was unhappy with having been relieved of the captaincy but he has now insisted that his words were misinterpreted and that he has since cleared the air with both his coach and his skipper.
"I saw it differently to the way it came out," he told reporters on Monday. "But, most importantly, I was speaking with a clear conscience."Things are fine with Neymar and Dunga. I had to clarify some things. Some things that were said that were not true. Neymar understood my intention.
"[The controversy] is sad because we have a sibling relationship. He is like my younger brother. And that will not change. I said this to him."This will not end our relationship."
Neymar supported Thiago Silva's claim that the pair remain friends, but did confess that he had reminded his colleague to be more careful when it comes to speaking to the press.
"I was surprised by the statement," the Barcelona attacker admitted. "I said to him and to all of the players that we need to be careful with what we say."He called me for a chat, but this has not affected our friendship.
"He clarified what he had said was not exactly what came out. It's all good now."They said that we were feuding, that we were not speaking. But that's not true.
"We've talked. Sometimes when we say something it can be interpreted in another way, but this is a complicated situation."We have a hierarchy and the boss here is our coach and we know that what he said is what he said.
"Me and Thiago have no issues. We are good friends and this will not hurt our friendship."We are two men and we know what is best for us and for the group, but nothing have affected our friendship."
Neymar will be hoping to lead Brazil to a sixth successive victory since the World Cup when they play Austria in Vienna on Tuesday evening in what is their final Gillette Brasil Global Tour outing of the year.
'Thiago Silva has shown he is weak mentally
Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil centre-back Thiago Silva has been branded mentally weak by former France international Eric Di Meco.
The 30-year-old was captain of the Selecao team that suffered humiliation on their own turf at the 2014 World Cup, and his position was called into debate as he ruled himself out of taking a penalty in the last 16 shoot-out against Chile before being pictured sat away from the rest of the group in tears.
Following the appointment of Dunga as coach of the Selecao, Thiago Silva has been replaced as skipper by Neymar.
The defender subsequently revealed his frustration that the Barcelona forward had not discussed the change with him, and his comments have been received badly ex-Marseille man Di Meco."He did not have a good World Cup, but I was impressed by his debut season at PSG," he told RMC Sport.
"A clean player who never fouls, always well placed, with a good recovery. He really was one of the best defenders in the world."And after the World Cup, I thought he would return to what he had been. But then these statements show that he is really very weak mentally.
"In top-level sport, when you are weak mentally... I thought he was stronger than that. The great players know you go through tough times when things are not good."The centre-back has not featured for Brazil since the World Cup and the Selecao, who have not conceded in their last five games, face Austria in their latest friendly on Tuesday.
He has, however, made peace with Neymar publicly and claims his initial quotes were misunderstood by the media.
Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil centre-back Thiago Silva has been branded mentally weak by former France international Eric Di Meco.
The 30-year-old was captain of the Selecao team that suffered humiliation on their own turf at the 2014 World Cup, and his position was called into debate as he ruled himself out of taking a penalty in the last 16 shoot-out against Chile before being pictured sat away from the rest of the group in tears.
Following the appointment of Dunga as coach of the Selecao, Thiago Silva has been replaced as skipper by Neymar.
The defender subsequently revealed his frustration that the Barcelona forward had not discussed the change with him, and his comments have been received badly ex-Marseille man Di Meco."He did not have a good World Cup, but I was impressed by his debut season at PSG," he told RMC Sport.
"A clean player who never fouls, always well placed, with a good recovery. He really was one of the best defenders in the world."And after the World Cup, I thought he would return to what he had been. But then these statements show that he is really very weak mentally.
"In top-level sport, when you are weak mentally... I thought he was stronger than that. The great players know you go through tough times when things are not good."The centre-back has not featured for Brazil since the World Cup and the Selecao, who have not conceded in their last five games, face Austria in their latest friendly on Tuesday.
He has, however, made peace with Neymar publicly and claims his initial quotes were misunderstood by the media.
I'm still not 100 per cent fit, admits Arsenal star Ramsey
Aaron Ramsey has revealed his underwhelming recent form for Arsenal is the result of feeling in less than peak physical condition as he recovers from a hamstring injury.
Wales' spirited goalless Euro 2016 qualifying draw with Belgium was just Ramsey's third full match as he works his way back from the muscular problem he sustained in Arsenal's north London derby clash with Tottenham on September 27.
Ramsey's performances in recent weeks have attracted public criticism, with former Gunners star Charlie Nicolas accusing him of playing "Hollywood football", and Dietmar Hamann claiming he was more interested in scoring than "in the team's success" after Arsene Wenger's men surrendered a three-goal lead at home to Anderlecht in the Champions league.
But the Welshman has rejected the words of his detractors and is adamant he will get back to his best as soon as his body allows him to.
"It's going to take a few more games for me to get back to my best, but I'm not worried," he told reporters after the Belgium match. "I think certain criticism from people is a bit unfair."
"It was tough out there again but I'm not worried. I know my qualities and I've had a few injuries this season and I'm still getting back. I'll be honest and say I'm still not 100% physically there."
Ramsey also paid tribute to the defensive resilience shown by Wales in securing a result that leaves them unbeaten after four Euro 2016 qualifiers and on track to make their first ever tournament.
"We've had a great start and we still have a lot of work to do but we've given ourselves a great opportunity now," he added. "[It was] a brilliant performance defensively from us.
"We were under pressure for large periods of the game I felt we stuck together and that's something we've improved on dramatically in this campaign - we're hard to score against. We'd have taken a draw before the game so it's a good point in the end."
Aaron Ramsey has revealed his underwhelming recent form for Arsenal is the result of feeling in less than peak physical condition as he recovers from a hamstring injury.
Wales' spirited goalless Euro 2016 qualifying draw with Belgium was just Ramsey's third full match as he works his way back from the muscular problem he sustained in Arsenal's north London derby clash with Tottenham on September 27.
Ramsey's performances in recent weeks have attracted public criticism, with former Gunners star Charlie Nicolas accusing him of playing "Hollywood football", and Dietmar Hamann claiming he was more interested in scoring than "in the team's success" after Arsene Wenger's men surrendered a three-goal lead at home to Anderlecht in the Champions league.
But the Welshman has rejected the words of his detractors and is adamant he will get back to his best as soon as his body allows him to.
"It's going to take a few more games for me to get back to my best, but I'm not worried," he told reporters after the Belgium match. "I think certain criticism from people is a bit unfair."
"It was tough out there again but I'm not worried. I know my qualities and I've had a few injuries this season and I'm still getting back. I'll be honest and say I'm still not 100% physically there."
Ramsey also paid tribute to the defensive resilience shown by Wales in securing a result that leaves them unbeaten after four Euro 2016 qualifiers and on track to make their first ever tournament.
"We've had a great start and we still have a lot of work to do but we've given ourselves a great opportunity now," he added. "[It was] a brilliant performance defensively from us.
"We were under pressure for large periods of the game I felt we stuck together and that's something we've improved on dramatically in this campaign - we're hard to score against. We'd have taken a draw before the game so it's a good point in the end."
Modric injury blow for Madrid
Real Madrid have been dealt a big blow after Luka Modric was ruled out for the remainder of 2014 after picking up a knock on international duty with Croatia.
The 29-year-old featured from the start in his country's 1-1 Euro 2016 qualification draw with Italy on Sunday, but was forced to leave the pitch after 28 minutes of play due to injury."Modric felt pain in his adductor and will undergo tests in Madrid to determine the extent of the knock. We will know more on Monday or Tuesday," Croatia coach Niko Kovac told HTV.
The midfielder's specific length of absence is not yet known, but initial reports suggest he will be unavailable for between three to five weeks.Modric has been a key figure for Madrid in the opening months of the 2014-15 campaign, making 17 appearances in all competitions.
The absence of Modric could see Sami Khedira return to the Madrid starting XI in the next few weeks. The Germany international has struggled to secure regular first-team action this term, through a combination of injury and the good form of Toni Kroos, but recently returned to full match fitness.
Real Madrid have been dealt a big blow after Luka Modric was ruled out for the remainder of 2014 after picking up a knock on international duty with Croatia.
The 29-year-old featured from the start in his country's 1-1 Euro 2016 qualification draw with Italy on Sunday, but was forced to leave the pitch after 28 minutes of play due to injury."Modric felt pain in his adductor and will undergo tests in Madrid to determine the extent of the knock. We will know more on Monday or Tuesday," Croatia coach Niko Kovac told HTV.
The midfielder's specific length of absence is not yet known, but initial reports suggest he will be unavailable for between three to five weeks.Modric has been a key figure for Madrid in the opening months of the 2014-15 campaign, making 17 appearances in all competitions.
The absence of Modric could see Sami Khedira return to the Madrid starting XI in the next few weeks. The Germany international has struggled to secure regular first-team action this term, through a combination of injury and the good form of Toni Kroos, but recently returned to full match fitness.
England keeper Foster expecting hostile Parkhead
England goalkeeper Ben Foster says that the Three Lions expect a hostile atmosphere on Tuesday as they face Scotland on Scottish soil for the first time in 15 years.
The two nations have met twice since that 2-0 win for the visitors in 1999, but both games took place at Wembley and the West Brom man knows that Celtic Park will be a different prospect, both on and off the pitch.
England go into the game with an unblemished record in Euro 2016 qualifying after Saturday's 3-1 win over Slovenia left them six points clear at the top of Group E but Foster - who faces a direct fight with former Celtic keeper Fraser Forster for a starting spot after Joe Hart returned to Manchester City - anticipates a no-holds barred clash in Glasgow.
"From watching the game the other night [against the Republic of Ireland], they were kicking lumps out of each other," he told the press.
"It was a good watch, very high-tempo, and I could feel the atmosphere sitting on my bed watching it. It was almost like they were getting more up for good tackles than they were for good passes.
"I'm sure we can expect pretty much the same atmosphere and the same sort of game so it would be a good one to be involved with."
England boss Roy Hodgson has suggested that Forster could be his choice between the posts after declaring that the Southampton starter "won't let us down" if selected.
Forster was Celtic's keeper as they memorably beat Barcelona at Parkhead in the Champions League two years ago and is curious to sample the stadium's atmosphere from an opposing viewpoint.
"It would be a dream come true to play," said the Southampton man. "I've only sampled the atmosphere there at club level but Barca came away saying it was the best they'd ever played in. Given the calibre of players they've got, that tells you how unique it is.
"It's a fantastic stadium, quite tight but really loud. I've lots of special memories from my time there, winning league titles and big European games, though that win over Barcelona is probably the best.
"It will be great to go back for the first time since I left, coming up against some close friends – Scott Brown, Charlie Mulgrew, Shaun Maloney, all top players – in a derby game, the sort you want to experience."
England goalkeeper Ben Foster says that the Three Lions expect a hostile atmosphere on Tuesday as they face Scotland on Scottish soil for the first time in 15 years.
The two nations have met twice since that 2-0 win for the visitors in 1999, but both games took place at Wembley and the West Brom man knows that Celtic Park will be a different prospect, both on and off the pitch.
England go into the game with an unblemished record in Euro 2016 qualifying after Saturday's 3-1 win over Slovenia left them six points clear at the top of Group E but Foster - who faces a direct fight with former Celtic keeper Fraser Forster for a starting spot after Joe Hart returned to Manchester City - anticipates a no-holds barred clash in Glasgow.
"From watching the game the other night [against the Republic of Ireland], they were kicking lumps out of each other," he told the press.
"It was a good watch, very high-tempo, and I could feel the atmosphere sitting on my bed watching it. It was almost like they were getting more up for good tackles than they were for good passes.
"I'm sure we can expect pretty much the same atmosphere and the same sort of game so it would be a good one to be involved with."
England boss Roy Hodgson has suggested that Forster could be his choice between the posts after declaring that the Southampton starter "won't let us down" if selected.
Forster was Celtic's keeper as they memorably beat Barcelona at Parkhead in the Champions League two years ago and is curious to sample the stadium's atmosphere from an opposing viewpoint.
"It would be a dream come true to play," said the Southampton man. "I've only sampled the atmosphere there at club level but Barca came away saying it was the best they'd ever played in. Given the calibre of players they've got, that tells you how unique it is.
"It's a fantastic stadium, quite tight but really loud. I've lots of special memories from my time there, winning league titles and big European games, though that win over Barcelona is probably the best.
"It will be great to go back for the first time since I left, coming up against some close friends – Scott Brown, Charlie Mulgrew, Shaun Maloney, all top players – in a derby game, the sort you want to experience."
Simeone not interested in leaving Atletico
Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has dismissed talk of a move away from the Spanish champions, insisting he is happy in the capital.
Simeone took over at the Vicente Calderon in December 2011 and has brought much success to Atleti, who won La Liga for the first time since 1996 last season.
The Argentine also guided Atleti to the Champions League final in 2013-14, where they suffered a 4-1 extra-time loss to city rivals Real Madrid, and has previously led them to glory in the Copa del Rey, Europa League and European Super Cup.
His exploits have prompted speculation regarding interest from other clubs, with Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain among those said to be eager to lure him away.
However, the 44-year-old is adamant he is enjoying life at Atleti and is keen to discover how far he can take a team that currently sits fourth in the Spanish top flight, four points adrift of leaders Real."I feel very good at Atletico," Simeone told Marca. "I always want to continue improving, I'm never satisfied.
"I don't know what the limit of this team is. I will continue looking."Atleti resume domestic action on Saturday when they host a Malaga team enjoying a five-game winning streak
Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has dismissed talk of a move away from the Spanish champions, insisting he is happy in the capital.
Simeone took over at the Vicente Calderon in December 2011 and has brought much success to Atleti, who won La Liga for the first time since 1996 last season.
The Argentine also guided Atleti to the Champions League final in 2013-14, where they suffered a 4-1 extra-time loss to city rivals Real Madrid, and has previously led them to glory in the Copa del Rey, Europa League and European Super Cup.
His exploits have prompted speculation regarding interest from other clubs, with Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain among those said to be eager to lure him away.
However, the 44-year-old is adamant he is enjoying life at Atleti and is keen to discover how far he can take a team that currently sits fourth in the Spanish top flight, four points adrift of leaders Real."I feel very good at Atletico," Simeone told Marca. "I always want to continue improving, I'm never satisfied.
"I don't know what the limit of this team is. I will continue looking."Atleti resume domestic action on Saturday when they host a Malaga team enjoying a five-game winning streak
'Fellaini cannot play football' - Boban ridicules Man Utd midfielder
Belgium and Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini "cannot play football" according to former AC Milan and Croatia star Zvonimir Boban.
Fellaini, 26, was regularly criticised for his performances as David Moyes' men failed to finish in a European position last season, but kept his place in the Belgium squad for the World Cup, with in-form Radja Nainggolan left at home.
Boban launched a scathing attack at Fellaini, who has actually looked a more confident player under Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford this campaign, while commentating on Belgium's 0-0 Euro 2016 qualification draw with Wales on Sunday.
"Fellaini cannot play football," Boban, 46, told Sky Sport during a discussion as to why Belgium were unable to get beyond the last eight at the World Cup this summer and hardly shone en route to that point. "He seriously cannot play football.
"It's unthinkable that Nainggolan doesn't play instead of him."
Boban also criticised Wales defender Ashley Williams for his rough way of dealing with Dries Mertens, suggesting he was "completely out of tempo" with the match.
Belgium were favourites to top Group B, as the fourth-placed nation in Fifa's ranking system, but are behind Israel, Wales and Cyprus in the standings after four matches of 10 played.
Bosnia-Herzegovina, the only other team in the group to have reached this summer's World Cup, are also underperforming with two draws and two defeats to leave their Euro 2016 qualification hanging by a thread.
Marc Wilmots' men need to finish in the top two to automatically qualify for the tournament in France, although finishing third is likely to put them in the running for a play-off spot where victory over two legs would edge them into the 24-man finals.
Belgium and Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini "cannot play football" according to former AC Milan and Croatia star Zvonimir Boban.
Fellaini, 26, was regularly criticised for his performances as David Moyes' men failed to finish in a European position last season, but kept his place in the Belgium squad for the World Cup, with in-form Radja Nainggolan left at home.
Boban launched a scathing attack at Fellaini, who has actually looked a more confident player under Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford this campaign, while commentating on Belgium's 0-0 Euro 2016 qualification draw with Wales on Sunday.
"Fellaini cannot play football," Boban, 46, told Sky Sport during a discussion as to why Belgium were unable to get beyond the last eight at the World Cup this summer and hardly shone en route to that point. "He seriously cannot play football.
"It's unthinkable that Nainggolan doesn't play instead of him."
Boban also criticised Wales defender Ashley Williams for his rough way of dealing with Dries Mertens, suggesting he was "completely out of tempo" with the match.
Belgium were favourites to top Group B, as the fourth-placed nation in Fifa's ranking system, but are behind Israel, Wales and Cyprus in the standings after four matches of 10 played.
Bosnia-Herzegovina, the only other team in the group to have reached this summer's World Cup, are also underperforming with two draws and two defeats to leave their Euro 2016 qualification hanging by a thread.
Marc Wilmots' men need to finish in the top two to automatically qualify for the tournament in France, although finishing third is likely to put them in the running for a play-off spot where victory over two legs would edge them into the 24-man finals.
Del Bosque backs Madrid to defend Champions League crown
Vicente del Bosque believes Real Madrid are well-placed to defend their Champions League crown.Former Madrid boss Del Bosque, now in charge of the Spain national team, has been impressed by the work of current Bernabeu chief Carlo Ancelotti and is confident they can repeat their success of last season in Berlin next May.
He told Perform: “Real Madrid’s history is so long. There were bad moments but now they are going through bright times. They have a great team for the future and the club’s togetherness is making things work out.
“They are a complete team that have performed extraordinarily in their recent games. They are in position to repeat their Champions League triumph.”
Key to Madrid’s success has been the form of Cristiano Ronaldo but Del Bosque was too savvy to reveal who he thought was better: the Portuguese or Barcelona rival Lionel Messi.
“Messi and Ronaldo are both fantastic examples. For those who like football, we like them both. And if people like one over the other that’s normally up to the team they support. Both of them are fantastic.”
Messi and Ronaldo have been shortlisted for the 2014 Fifa Ballon d’Or but Del Bosque has suggested a German could win it following their World Cup glory in Brazil in the summer.
“This is a World Cup year and when we [Spain] won it in 2010 we would have liked one of our players to have claimed the award,” said Del Bosque reflecting on Messi’s success four years ago.“We already know who the best players are but at the same time they will have the competence of the Germans as one of them could win it because of what they achieved as a team.
“Football is not only an individual matter but also a collective one. Germany are an excellent team full of great elements.”Pep Guardiola is on the shortlist for coach of the year and Del Bosque is immensely proud of his countryman’s progress at Bayern Munich.
“For any Spanish manager it’s such a joy to see one of our colleagues working abroad,” he said. “And if it happens to be at a club like Bayern, which has done unbelievable things in the past, we have to feel proud for that.”
Vicente del Bosque believes Real Madrid are well-placed to defend their Champions League crown.Former Madrid boss Del Bosque, now in charge of the Spain national team, has been impressed by the work of current Bernabeu chief Carlo Ancelotti and is confident they can repeat their success of last season in Berlin next May.
He told Perform: “Real Madrid’s history is so long. There were bad moments but now they are going through bright times. They have a great team for the future and the club’s togetherness is making things work out.
“They are a complete team that have performed extraordinarily in their recent games. They are in position to repeat their Champions League triumph.”
Key to Madrid’s success has been the form of Cristiano Ronaldo but Del Bosque was too savvy to reveal who he thought was better: the Portuguese or Barcelona rival Lionel Messi.
“Messi and Ronaldo are both fantastic examples. For those who like football, we like them both. And if people like one over the other that’s normally up to the team they support. Both of them are fantastic.”
Messi and Ronaldo have been shortlisted for the 2014 Fifa Ballon d’Or but Del Bosque has suggested a German could win it following their World Cup glory in Brazil in the summer.
“This is a World Cup year and when we [Spain] won it in 2010 we would have liked one of our players to have claimed the award,” said Del Bosque reflecting on Messi’s success four years ago.“We already know who the best players are but at the same time they will have the competence of the Germans as one of them could win it because of what they achieved as a team.
“Football is not only an individual matter but also a collective one. Germany are an excellent team full of great elements.”Pep Guardiola is on the shortlist for coach of the year and Del Bosque is immensely proud of his countryman’s progress at Bayern Munich.
“For any Spanish manager it’s such a joy to see one of our colleagues working abroad,” he said. “And if it happens to be at a club like Bayern, which has done unbelievable things in the past, we have to feel proud for that.”
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