Thank's RC!
Latest ads
-
Power Lifting Lever Belt- SkullVamp
- Updated:
-
port.lk Domain for sale
- Lankan-Tech
- Updated:
-
Colombo Kaduwela - Two Storey House for Sale- dilrasan
- Updated:
-
Wechat qr verification
- Pawan2005
- Updated:
-
🚀 GOOGLE AI PRO 18 MONTHS ACTIVATION 🚀- sayuru bandara
- Updated:
..::Football II::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
- Status
Mourinho: Khedira is the best in his position
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has leapt to the defense of holding midfielder Sami Khedira, whom he feels is currently the best player in his position.
The Germany international arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2010 after a successful World Cup campaign in South Africa, and has since gone onto become an important part of Los Blancos' first-team plans, forming an effective midfield partnership with Xabi Alonso.
However, Khedira does not receive enough credit in Mourinho's eyes, and feels left back Fabio Coentrao suffers from the same fate.
"I cannot understand why Khedira and Coentrao are criticized all the time in Spain," he told Spox. "This is because the media are always looking to write something negative. I currently do not know any other player that is better than Sami in his position."
Mourinho also spoke briefly about the situation of Kaka, who is being lined up for a return to AC Milan, and the trainer admits the midfielder's mental state is not helping matters.
"He is a great professional, but it does not help when your head is not straight," he told Record. "If he decides to stay, he will help us as he did last year when [Angel] Di Maria and [Mesut] Ozil were injured and he was our No.10. But if he decides to leave, we will respect his decision."
Meanwhile, Marca reports that the former Chelsea and Inter boss rejected the chance to sign Santi Cazorla from Villarreal last summer.
The publication claims president Florentino Perez offered the Spain international to Mourinho, but the 49-year-old decided against giving the purchase the green light, as he felt the midfielder was overpriced.
Cazorla eventually joined Malaga for €21 million and helped the Andalucian side to a Champions League place in his debut season, but now appears destined for a move to Arsenal following the club's financial problems.
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has leapt to the defense of holding midfielder Sami Khedira, whom he feels is currently the best player in his position.
The Germany international arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2010 after a successful World Cup campaign in South Africa, and has since gone onto become an important part of Los Blancos' first-team plans, forming an effective midfield partnership with Xabi Alonso.
However, Khedira does not receive enough credit in Mourinho's eyes, and feels left back Fabio Coentrao suffers from the same fate.
"I cannot understand why Khedira and Coentrao are criticized all the time in Spain," he told Spox. "This is because the media are always looking to write something negative. I currently do not know any other player that is better than Sami in his position."
Mourinho also spoke briefly about the situation of Kaka, who is being lined up for a return to AC Milan, and the trainer admits the midfielder's mental state is not helping matters.
"He is a great professional, but it does not help when your head is not straight," he told Record. "If he decides to stay, he will help us as he did last year when [Angel] Di Maria and [Mesut] Ozil were injured and he was our No.10. But if he decides to leave, we will respect his decision."
Meanwhile, Marca reports that the former Chelsea and Inter boss rejected the chance to sign Santi Cazorla from Villarreal last summer.
The publication claims president Florentino Perez offered the Spain international to Mourinho, but the 49-year-old decided against giving the purchase the green light, as he felt the midfielder was overpriced.
Cazorla eventually joined Malaga for €21 million and helped the Andalucian side to a Champions League place in his debut season, but now appears destined for a move to Arsenal following the club's financial problems.
Gomez to undergo surgery after sustaining ankle injury
Bayern Munich has confirmed Mario Gomez is due to undergo surgery on an ankle injury he sustained during the side's Liga Total! Cup semifinal shootout defeat to Werder Bremen on Saturday.
The 27-year-old was stretchered off only minutes shy of the halftime whistle at the Imtech Arena in Hamburg, where it was later discovered that he would require an operation to rectify the problem.
Speaking on Sunday, Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer admitted: "He is not good. He needs surgery. Then we'll see how long he's out for."
The match finished 2-2, with penalties deciding the match in favor of Bremen, who ultimately prevailed 4-2 from the spot after normal time.
The Germany striker follows the likes of Rafinha (torn knee ligament), Diego Contento (hairline foot fracture) and David Alaba (stress foot fracture) on the club's treatment table with long-term injuries.
Bayern Munich has confirmed Mario Gomez is due to undergo surgery on an ankle injury he sustained during the side's Liga Total! Cup semifinal shootout defeat to Werder Bremen on Saturday.
The 27-year-old was stretchered off only minutes shy of the halftime whistle at the Imtech Arena in Hamburg, where it was later discovered that he would require an operation to rectify the problem.
Speaking on Sunday, Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer admitted: "He is not good. He needs surgery. Then we'll see how long he's out for."
The match finished 2-2, with penalties deciding the match in favor of Bremen, who ultimately prevailed 4-2 from the spot after normal time.
The Germany striker follows the likes of Rafinha (torn knee ligament), Diego Contento (hairline foot fracture) and David Alaba (stress foot fracture) on the club's treatment table with long-term injuries.
Dzeko reveals Serie A ambition
Edin Dzeko has fuelled speculation linking him with a summer transfer to the Rossoneri by revealing that he would like to play on the peninsula at some point during his footballing career.
The 26-year-old was heavily tipped to join Juventus two years ago after becoming highly sought-after at Wolfsburg, but eventually joined Manchester City midway through the 2010-11 campaign.
However, rumors over a move to Serie A have arisen again in recent weeks - this time Massimiliano Allegri's side being the club in question following Zlatan Ibrahimovic's departure to Paris Saint-Germain.
When Goal.com asked if the Rossoneri was still his favorite club, the Bosnian said tellingly: "I have been following what has happened in Italy and I know that AC Milan have sold two of their best players.
"I would also like to play, of course, in Italy at some point."
Nevertheless, despite his frustrations at a lack of playing time with the English champions, Dzeko is eyeing more silverware this season, and claims the team's main objective must be to defend their Premier League crown.
"If we are all fit and all the European returnees are fit, we have to attack," he added.
"Last year we won the FA Cup, the title this year. Next year we are represented in many competitions. The main objective is to defend our crown."
Edin Dzeko has fuelled speculation linking him with a summer transfer to the Rossoneri by revealing that he would like to play on the peninsula at some point during his footballing career.
The 26-year-old was heavily tipped to join Juventus two years ago after becoming highly sought-after at Wolfsburg, but eventually joined Manchester City midway through the 2010-11 campaign.
However, rumors over a move to Serie A have arisen again in recent weeks - this time Massimiliano Allegri's side being the club in question following Zlatan Ibrahimovic's departure to Paris Saint-Germain.
When Goal.com asked if the Rossoneri was still his favorite club, the Bosnian said tellingly: "I have been following what has happened in Italy and I know that AC Milan have sold two of their best players.
"I would also like to play, of course, in Italy at some point."
Nevertheless, despite his frustrations at a lack of playing time with the English champions, Dzeko is eyeing more silverware this season, and claims the team's main objective must be to defend their Premier League crown.
"If we are all fit and all the European returnees are fit, we have to attack," he added.
"Last year we won the FA Cup, the title this year. Next year we are represented in many competitions. The main objective is to defend our crown."
Ashley Cole: I'd never ask for 250k euros-a-week and Chelsea contract talks have not stalled
Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has played down reports that he is seeking a new 252,000 euros-a-week contract with the club, and taken a fresh swipe at fans of former club Arsenal.
With the 31-year-old's contract set to expire in 2013, he revealed that talks have been begun on extending his deal with the Champions League winners.
But amid suggestions that no developments had taken place, with the England left-back wanting a more suitable salary to persuade him to remain at Stamford Bridge, Cole felt the need to give his side of the story.
"Contract talks have not stalled just started, and 200k are you for real, I'd never ask for that," Cole wrote on his Twitter account. "Like I said before don't listen or always believe what media say they aint got a clue".
Cole then took a swipe at fans of former club Arsenal, who had been tweeting him, by claiming that when he left, he won, referring to last season's Champions League win in the hashtag: #ihaveastaronmyshirtnow.
"Arsenal fans get over it, I left I won #ihaveastaronmyshirtnow".Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is thought to be interested in bringing Cole to Spain, but the former Gunner insists he is happy in London and has no plans of moving.
Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has played down reports that he is seeking a new 252,000 euros-a-week contract with the club, and taken a fresh swipe at fans of former club Arsenal.
With the 31-year-old's contract set to expire in 2013, he revealed that talks have been begun on extending his deal with the Champions League winners.
But amid suggestions that no developments had taken place, with the England left-back wanting a more suitable salary to persuade him to remain at Stamford Bridge, Cole felt the need to give his side of the story.
"Contract talks have not stalled just started, and 200k are you for real, I'd never ask for that," Cole wrote on his Twitter account. "Like I said before don't listen or always believe what media say they aint got a clue".
Cole then took a swipe at fans of former club Arsenal, who had been tweeting him, by claiming that when he left, he won, referring to last season's Champions League win in the hashtag: #ihaveastaronmyshirtnow.
"Arsenal fans get over it, I left I won #ihaveastaronmyshirtnow".Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is thought to be interested in bringing Cole to Spain, but the former Gunner insists he is happy in London and has no plans of moving.
Oscar: I hope I can persuade Neymar to join Chelsea
Chelsea's new Brazilian midfielder Oscar has revealed he is eager to see his international colleague Neymar follow him and make a move to west London.
The pair are currently on Olympic duty for their country, where they have progressed to the semifinals, and Santos star Neymar has impressed.
He has been linked with a move to Europe for several years, and Oscar has revealed he will be doing all he can to ensure when that move comes, he will be coming to Stamford Bridge.
"While we are in London, I have been telling Neymar about the ambition of Chelsea," he told The People. "When the time comes for him to join a European club, I hope I can persuade him."
Oscar joined Roberto Di Matteo's side for 32 million euros before the Olympic tournament began, and he admits that after hearing of the Blues' interest he had little hesitation in deciding to move to England.
He added: "When my agent told me that Chelsea were interested it was not something I even needed to think about. They are the champions of Europe, but they are still showing so much ambition by improving the squad.
"To win the European Cup and still sign guys like myself and Eden Hazard shows you the ambition the owner and manager have. With the squad we have I will be looking at winning the Premier League title and also the Champions League.
"I know it is very difficult to win [the Champions League] twice in a row and even Barcelona could not do it, but with what Chelsea have in place it is very possible."
However before he gets his Chelsea career underway, the former Internacional man hopes to win Olympic gold for Brazil.
"The Brazilian Football Confederation have told us that they don't expect anything less than gold - and that is what we are going to deliver," he added. "To win an Olympic gold would be very special for me."
Chelsea's new Brazilian midfielder Oscar has revealed he is eager to see his international colleague Neymar follow him and make a move to west London.
The pair are currently on Olympic duty for their country, where they have progressed to the semifinals, and Santos star Neymar has impressed.
He has been linked with a move to Europe for several years, and Oscar has revealed he will be doing all he can to ensure when that move comes, he will be coming to Stamford Bridge.
"While we are in London, I have been telling Neymar about the ambition of Chelsea," he told The People. "When the time comes for him to join a European club, I hope I can persuade him."
Oscar joined Roberto Di Matteo's side for 32 million euros before the Olympic tournament began, and he admits that after hearing of the Blues' interest he had little hesitation in deciding to move to England.
He added: "When my agent told me that Chelsea were interested it was not something I even needed to think about. They are the champions of Europe, but they are still showing so much ambition by improving the squad.
"To win the European Cup and still sign guys like myself and Eden Hazard shows you the ambition the owner and manager have. With the squad we have I will be looking at winning the Premier League title and also the Champions League.
"I know it is very difficult to win [the Champions League] twice in a row and even Barcelona could not do it, but with what Chelsea have in place it is very possible."
However before he gets his Chelsea career underway, the former Internacional man hopes to win Olympic gold for Brazil.
"The Brazilian Football Confederation have told us that they don't expect anything less than gold - and that is what we are going to deliver," he added. "To win an Olympic gold would be very special for me."
Manuel Almunia: Arsenal as a club changes every year
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia is looking forward to watching how Arsene Wenger builds a new side ahead of the club's upcoming Premier League campaign, which gets underway in just under two weeks.
Almunia left the club on June 30 after the Gunners released him from his contract, and he has since moved to Watford, where he has replaced Scott Loach as its first-team goalkeeper.
Arsenal’s apparent reluctance to spend money during transfer windows has been a source of much controversy, but Almunia is confident Wenger can bring in young talent and see them shine.
"As a player at Arsenal, it is hard to see the best players go to other clubs every year. They have missed a lot of great players in the last few years,” Almunia told the Sunday Mirror.
"The first year I came to England, I thought 'Oh, I'm going to win a lot of things with Arsenal' but the change then started. The club has been changing every year."
The arrival of Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud is an encouraging start, according to Almunia, but they won’t cover for the loss of Robin van Persie if he does leave the Emirates this summer.
"One of these years, everything has to come together and be perfect, and now is the time for Arsenal," Almunia said. "They've signed some good players this year, Santi Cazorla is fantastic."
Wenger’s side play its last friendly of preseason against Bundesliga outfit Koln next Sunday, with the Gunners taking on Sunderland in the Premier League a week later.
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia is looking forward to watching how Arsene Wenger builds a new side ahead of the club's upcoming Premier League campaign, which gets underway in just under two weeks.
Almunia left the club on June 30 after the Gunners released him from his contract, and he has since moved to Watford, where he has replaced Scott Loach as its first-team goalkeeper.
Arsenal’s apparent reluctance to spend money during transfer windows has been a source of much controversy, but Almunia is confident Wenger can bring in young talent and see them shine.
"As a player at Arsenal, it is hard to see the best players go to other clubs every year. They have missed a lot of great players in the last few years,” Almunia told the Sunday Mirror.
"The first year I came to England, I thought 'Oh, I'm going to win a lot of things with Arsenal' but the change then started. The club has been changing every year."
The arrival of Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud is an encouraging start, according to Almunia, but they won’t cover for the loss of Robin van Persie if he does leave the Emirates this summer.
"One of these years, everything has to come together and be perfect, and now is the time for Arsenal," Almunia said. "They've signed some good players this year, Santi Cazorla is fantastic."
Wenger’s side play its last friendly of preseason against Bundesliga outfit Koln next Sunday, with the Gunners taking on Sunderland in the Premier League a week later.
Real Madrid legend Raul scores on Al Sadd debut
Raul has taken just one match to open his goalscoring account for Al Sadd, scoring a penalty against Al-Mesaimeer on Satuday.
The former Spain captain moved to the Qatari outfit this summer after a successful two-year spell at Schalke, where he led the side to the Champions League semifinals in 2010-11.
Al Sadd had gone ahead in the 16th minute courtesy of a Nadir Belhadj strike, and it was not until the last minute of regular time when the referee pointed to the spot and hand Raul a golden goal-scoring opportunity.
The legendary No.7, who is currently the top scorer in UEFA competitions, also took on the role of captain after Abdulla Koni was substituted.
The result sees Al Sadd advance to the semifinals of the Sheikh Jassem Cup, where it will face current holders Al-Arabi.
Raul has taken just one match to open his goalscoring account for Al Sadd, scoring a penalty against Al-Mesaimeer on Satuday.
The former Spain captain moved to the Qatari outfit this summer after a successful two-year spell at Schalke, where he led the side to the Champions League semifinals in 2010-11.
Al Sadd had gone ahead in the 16th minute courtesy of a Nadir Belhadj strike, and it was not until the last minute of regular time when the referee pointed to the spot and hand Raul a golden goal-scoring opportunity.
The legendary No.7, who is currently the top scorer in UEFA competitions, also took on the role of captain after Abdulla Koni was substituted.
The result sees Al Sadd advance to the semifinals of the Sheikh Jassem Cup, where it will face current holders Al-Arabi.
Redknapp: Levy told Modric he could leave Tottenham for Real Madrid this summer
Former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has claimed chairman Daniel Levy told Luka Modric he would not stand in his way if Real Madrid tried to buy the midfielder this year.
The Croatia international’s future has been the subject of intense speculation with Modric reportedly keen on a move to Madrid but with the Spanish champion so far unwilling to match Spurs’ valuation of its midfielder.
However, Redknapp is not expecting Modric to still be at the club when the season kicks off in two weeks’ time, claiming he was promised a transfer last season.
“I would not be sure Luka would start the season at Tottenham. The club would be happy to sell if they get the right money,” he told The Sun. “The chairman said to him last year ‘Give us one more season and if Real come in I won’t stand in your way.’”
As exclusively revealed by Goal.com, Spurs have turned down a player plush cash approach from Real Madrid for Modric, as it holds out for a straight cash deal worth 40 million pounds.
Former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has claimed chairman Daniel Levy told Luka Modric he would not stand in his way if Real Madrid tried to buy the midfielder this year.
The Croatia international’s future has been the subject of intense speculation with Modric reportedly keen on a move to Madrid but with the Spanish champion so far unwilling to match Spurs’ valuation of its midfielder.
However, Redknapp is not expecting Modric to still be at the club when the season kicks off in two weeks’ time, claiming he was promised a transfer last season.
“I would not be sure Luka would start the season at Tottenham. The club would be happy to sell if they get the right money,” he told The Sun. “The chairman said to him last year ‘Give us one more season and if Real come in I won’t stand in your way.’”
As exclusively revealed by Goal.com, Spurs have turned down a player plush cash approach from Real Madrid for Modric, as it holds out for a straight cash deal worth 40 million pounds.
'YouTube helped me save Schweinsteiger's penalty' - Werder Bremen's Sebastian Mielitz
Werder Bremen goalkeeper Sebastian Mielitz has revealed he consulted YouTube ahead of his side's clash with Bayern Munich on Saturday, which helped him save Bastian Schweinsteiger's crucial shootout attempt.
Thomas Schaaf's side played out a 2-2 draw with the Bavarian giants in the LIGA Total! Cup on Saturday, meaning that spot kicks were required to decide who would take their place in the final.
And in the end, Die Roten suffered a repeat of their Champions League final shoot-out heartbreak, with Schweinstieger missing the decisive penalty once more.
"A penalty is all about intuition, but I did look on YouTube a bit last night," the 23-year-old told Goal.com. "Against [Petr] Cech [in the Champions League final] Schweinsteiger also targeted low and left. I think that helped a bit."
Werder Bremen advances to face Borussia Dortmund in Sunday's final of the preseason tournament.
Werder Bremen goalkeeper Sebastian Mielitz has revealed he consulted YouTube ahead of his side's clash with Bayern Munich on Saturday, which helped him save Bastian Schweinsteiger's crucial shootout attempt.
Thomas Schaaf's side played out a 2-2 draw with the Bavarian giants in the LIGA Total! Cup on Saturday, meaning that spot kicks were required to decide who would take their place in the final.
And in the end, Die Roten suffered a repeat of their Champions League final shoot-out heartbreak, with Schweinstieger missing the decisive penalty once more.
"A penalty is all about intuition, but I did look on YouTube a bit last night," the 23-year-old told Goal.com. "Against [Petr] Cech [in the Champions League final] Schweinsteiger also targeted low and left. I think that helped a bit."
Werder Bremen advances to face Borussia Dortmund in Sunday's final of the preseason tournament.
We are not at 100 percent, says Dortmund's Marco Reus
Boussia Dortmund's Marco Reus has insisted that his side's 1-0 victory over Hamburg in the preseason LIGA Total! Cup was not its best showing, and is hoping for further improvement.
The Germany international moved back to Signal Iduna Park this summer, having spent the last six years at Rot Weiss Ahlen and Borussia Monchengladbach.
And while he is happy to have returned to the club that bred him, he is looking forward to Jurgen Klopp's side moving out of first gear as the start of the season looms.
"I'm happy about my decision to go to BVB," the midfielder told Goal.com. "But that was by no means 100 per cent. Our preparation was very hard but the workload has scaled down a bit now."
Hamburg midfielder Marcell Jansen also lauded the Bundesliga champions, who also secured the DFB-Pokal last term.
"We played against the German champions," the 26-year old stated. "They arrived with killer-confidence. They are strong on the ball and came here with a killer self-confidence."
Dortmund will start its competitive campaign on August 12, when it faces Bayern Munich in the DFL Supercup.
Boussia Dortmund's Marco Reus has insisted that his side's 1-0 victory over Hamburg in the preseason LIGA Total! Cup was not its best showing, and is hoping for further improvement.
The Germany international moved back to Signal Iduna Park this summer, having spent the last six years at Rot Weiss Ahlen and Borussia Monchengladbach.
And while he is happy to have returned to the club that bred him, he is looking forward to Jurgen Klopp's side moving out of first gear as the start of the season looms.
"I'm happy about my decision to go to BVB," the midfielder told Goal.com. "But that was by no means 100 per cent. Our preparation was very hard but the workload has scaled down a bit now."
Hamburg midfielder Marcell Jansen also lauded the Bundesliga champions, who also secured the DFB-Pokal last term.
"We played against the German champions," the 26-year old stated. "They arrived with killer-confidence. They are strong on the ball and came here with a killer self-confidence."
Dortmund will start its competitive campaign on August 12, when it faces Bayern Munich in the DFL Supercup.
Neymar unfazed by boos from British crowds
Neymar has stated that he is unaffected by the boos the rained down on him during Brazil's Olympic quarterfinal win over Honduras.
The Selecao slugged it out to emerge eventual 3-2 victors in a bad-tempered match that saw their opponent pick up eight yellow and two red cards at Newcastle's St James' Park.
The Santos star, who was jeered following his role in the expulsion of Wilmer Crisanto, insists the adversity merely provides motivation to succeed.
"I'm always prepared for anything," he told Marca Brasil. "To be cheered or to be booed is entirely normal.
"The only time I fell was when the Honduras player fouled me and got sent off. I will not let the criticism affect me, and just want to help Brazil more. Football remains no different to me, regardless of whether I play amid cheering or jeering."
The Selecao travel to Manchester next, where they will face South Korea in the semifinals on Tuesday.
Neymar has stated that he is unaffected by the boos the rained down on him during Brazil's Olympic quarterfinal win over Honduras.
The Selecao slugged it out to emerge eventual 3-2 victors in a bad-tempered match that saw their opponent pick up eight yellow and two red cards at Newcastle's St James' Park.
The Santos star, who was jeered following his role in the expulsion of Wilmer Crisanto, insists the adversity merely provides motivation to succeed.
"I'm always prepared for anything," he told Marca Brasil. "To be cheered or to be booed is entirely normal.
"The only time I fell was when the Honduras player fouled me and got sent off. I will not let the criticism affect me, and just want to help Brazil more. Football remains no different to me, regardless of whether I play amid cheering or jeering."
The Selecao travel to Manchester next, where they will face South Korea in the semifinals on Tuesday.
Giggs hails Team GB starlets after Olympic exit
Ryan Giggs believes that Team GB's young stars have bright futures ahead of them despite suffering Olympic penalty shootout heartbreak at the hands of South Korea in Cardiff.
In a tight and tense quarterfinal clash at the Millennium Stadium, the two sides were unable to be separated after 120 minutes, but Celtic's Ki Sung-Yeung sent the visitors into the last four after Daniel Sturridge saw his spot kick saved.
It was a disappointing end to a campaign which promised much when Stuart Pearce's men qualified top of Group A, but after the match Giggs stressed that the overall experience was a very positive one.
"Of course, it's disappointing," he told reporters. "Ultimately we just weren't quite good enough. They were well organized and made it hard for us to play our football. Overall though, it's been a fantastic experience, one the players and the staff have enjoyed."
Giggs went on to say that he was pleased to have shared the pitch with so many talented youngsters.
"It was a pleasure to play with so many talented young players," he said. "Some I knew, some I didn't, but there's a lot of talent in that dressing room. Hopefully they can take it back to their clubs now and have good seasons. They deserve it, because their attitudes have been brilliant.
"It's been a pleasure to play with them, to be around them, and to train with them."
Ryan Giggs believes that Team GB's young stars have bright futures ahead of them despite suffering Olympic penalty shootout heartbreak at the hands of South Korea in Cardiff.
In a tight and tense quarterfinal clash at the Millennium Stadium, the two sides were unable to be separated after 120 minutes, but Celtic's Ki Sung-Yeung sent the visitors into the last four after Daniel Sturridge saw his spot kick saved.
It was a disappointing end to a campaign which promised much when Stuart Pearce's men qualified top of Group A, but after the match Giggs stressed that the overall experience was a very positive one.
"Of course, it's disappointing," he told reporters. "Ultimately we just weren't quite good enough. They were well organized and made it hard for us to play our football. Overall though, it's been a fantastic experience, one the players and the staff have enjoyed."
Giggs went on to say that he was pleased to have shared the pitch with so many talented youngsters.
"It was a pleasure to play with so many talented young players," he said. "Some I knew, some I didn't, but there's a lot of talent in that dressing room. Hopefully they can take it back to their clubs now and have good seasons. They deserve it, because their attitudes have been brilliant.
"It's been a pleasure to play with them, to be around them, and to train with them."
Mourinho: Khedira is the best in his position
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has leapt to the defense of holding midfielder Sami Khedira, whom he feels is currently the best player in his position.
The Germany international arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2010 after a successful World Cup campaign in South Africa, and has since gone onto become an important part of Los Blancos' first-team plans, forming an effective midfield partnership with Xabi Alonso.
However, Khedira does not receive enough credit in Mourinho's eyes, and feels left back Fabio Coentrao suffers from the same fate.
"I cannot understand why Khedira and Coentrao are criticized all the time in Spain," he told Spox. "This is because the media are always looking to write something negative. I currently do not know any other player that is better than Sami in his position."
Mourinho also spoke briefly about the situation of Kaka, who is being lined up for a return to AC Milan, and the trainer admits the midfielder's mental state is not helping matters.
"He is a great professional, but it does not help when your head is not straight," he told Record. "If he decides to stay, he will help us as he did last year when [Angel] Di Maria and [Mesut] Ozil were injured and he was our No.10. But if he decides to leave, we will respect his decision."
Meanwhile, Marca reports that the former Chelsea and Inter boss rejected the chance to sign Santi Cazorla from Villarreal last summer.
The publication claims president Florentino Perez offered the Spain international to Mourinho, but the 49-year-old decided against giving the purchase the green light, as he felt the midfielder was overpriced.
Cazorla eventually joined Malaga for €21 million and helped the Andalucian side to a Champions League place in his debut season, but now appears destined for a move to Arsenal following the club's financial problems.
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has leapt to the defense of holding midfielder Sami Khedira, whom he feels is currently the best player in his position.
The Germany international arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2010 after a successful World Cup campaign in South Africa, and has since gone onto become an important part of Los Blancos' first-team plans, forming an effective midfield partnership with Xabi Alonso.
However, Khedira does not receive enough credit in Mourinho's eyes, and feels left back Fabio Coentrao suffers from the same fate.
"I cannot understand why Khedira and Coentrao are criticized all the time in Spain," he told Spox. "This is because the media are always looking to write something negative. I currently do not know any other player that is better than Sami in his position."
Mourinho also spoke briefly about the situation of Kaka, who is being lined up for a return to AC Milan, and the trainer admits the midfielder's mental state is not helping matters.
"He is a great professional, but it does not help when your head is not straight," he told Record. "If he decides to stay, he will help us as he did last year when [Angel] Di Maria and [Mesut] Ozil were injured and he was our No.10. But if he decides to leave, we will respect his decision."
Meanwhile, Marca reports that the former Chelsea and Inter boss rejected the chance to sign Santi Cazorla from Villarreal last summer.
The publication claims president Florentino Perez offered the Spain international to Mourinho, but the 49-year-old decided against giving the purchase the green light, as he felt the midfielder was overpriced.
Cazorla eventually joined Malaga for €21 million and helped the Andalucian side to a Champions League place in his debut season, but now appears destined for a move to Arsenal following the club's financial problems.
Garcia: Newcastle target Debuchy must deal with Lille's decision
Rudi Garcia has stated that Mathieu Debuchy must accept Lille's decision not to sell him despite ongoing interest from Newcastle United.
The France international has been heavily linked with a transfer to the Premier League club but LOSC has been immovable in its decision to retain his services.
Newcastle had a fresh approach for the right back rejected by the French club last week and now his coach has declared that there is nothing the player can do.
"He doesn't really have the choice. The club has made a decision and he has to deal with it," Garcia told French publication Nord Eclair. "He also knows he has to be good in the game for his future in the French team. I have no worries about him."
The Magpies have been desperate to bolster their squad ahead of their Europa League campaign but have so far also failed in attempts to sign Andy Carroll and Twente's Douglas.
Rudi Garcia has stated that Mathieu Debuchy must accept Lille's decision not to sell him despite ongoing interest from Newcastle United.
The France international has been heavily linked with a transfer to the Premier League club but LOSC has been immovable in its decision to retain his services.
Newcastle had a fresh approach for the right back rejected by the French club last week and now his coach has declared that there is nothing the player can do.
"He doesn't really have the choice. The club has made a decision and he has to deal with it," Garcia told French publication Nord Eclair. "He also knows he has to be good in the game for his future in the French team. I have no worries about him."
The Magpies have been desperate to bolster their squad ahead of their Europa League campaign but have so far also failed in attempts to sign Andy Carroll and Twente's Douglas.
Internacional braced for Leandro Damiao offers
Internacional is prepared to receive a number of offers for its star striker, Leandro Damiao,who is currently representing Brazil at the Olympic Games.
The 23-year-old has been in fantastic form for the Selecao in London, scoring four goals in as many games to help his nation reach the semifinal stage.
His coach at Inter, Fernandao, has admitted he believes the player's performances mean the club will face a huge increase in interest for the striker who has previously been linked with Paris Saint-Germain, Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus.
The trainer was also keen to point out the difference between any potential transfer of the striker and that of his former teammate Oscar, who recently joined Chelsea.
"There will be offers, I have no doubt. In the last four transfer windows there have been offers and the board have worked to keep Damiao," Fernandao said to Radio Gaucha. "Oscar only left as his release clause was met, we could do nothing about it."
His statement was echoed by the Porto Alegre club's vice president, Luciano Davi, who believes that every strike Damiao nets will bring about another bid.
"With each goal that he scores, there is a bit of horror. If a proposal comes, Inter will look at it," he said.
Damiao will be hopeful of retaining his starting berth as Brazil takes on South Korea in the semifinal of the Olympics on Tuesday, August 7.
Internacional is prepared to receive a number of offers for its star striker, Leandro Damiao,who is currently representing Brazil at the Olympic Games.
The 23-year-old has been in fantastic form for the Selecao in London, scoring four goals in as many games to help his nation reach the semifinal stage.
His coach at Inter, Fernandao, has admitted he believes the player's performances mean the club will face a huge increase in interest for the striker who has previously been linked with Paris Saint-Germain, Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus.
The trainer was also keen to point out the difference between any potential transfer of the striker and that of his former teammate Oscar, who recently joined Chelsea.
"There will be offers, I have no doubt. In the last four transfer windows there have been offers and the board have worked to keep Damiao," Fernandao said to Radio Gaucha. "Oscar only left as his release clause was met, we could do nothing about it."
His statement was echoed by the Porto Alegre club's vice president, Luciano Davi, who believes that every strike Damiao nets will bring about another bid.
"With each goal that he scores, there is a bit of horror. If a proposal comes, Inter will look at it," he said.
Damiao will be hopeful of retaining his starting berth as Brazil takes on South Korea in the semifinal of the Olympics on Tuesday, August 7.
Modric set for Tottenham first team return after no Real Madrid agreement
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has revealed that Luka Modric is set to return to first team training as the club are still yet to receive an acceptable offer for the midfielder.
Real Madrid has been heavily linked with the Croatia international this summer but Spurs have not been prepared to compromise on their asking price.
Villas-Boas believes that Modric must accept that there is little the club can do if an agreement is not reached before the end of the transfer window.
"He has been training separately," the Portuguese told Sky Sports. "Now it is important for Luka to feel mentally ready to come back to first team training.
"These boys are at a different level in terms of their preparation, concentration and commitment. I think the player has to understand that the club cannot do anything about other clubs' offers. We have a value and an interest that we have to defend, and we are waiting to reintegrate the player if the offer is not matched."
Modric's future at White Hart Lane is in doubt for the second consecutive summer, with Villas-Boas himself pursuing the playmaker this time last year as manager of Chelsea.
The 34-year-old hoped a resolution would be reached as soon as possible, ideally with Modric returning to the first team.
"We will try to solve it as soon as possible," he said. "It is the second time we have been through this situation. It is obviously difficult for him, but the chairman is defending the club's interests and the player has to understand that, and the fact that the offer does not meet the chairman's demands means we can't do anything."
"The player is a good professional and hopefully he will return to the team."
When asked if Modric could be ready to play at the start of the season, Villas-Boas replied: "Obviously he will have to raise his fitness level, and the sooner that we can have him reintegrated mentally and then physically, we will then see how things go."
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has revealed that Luka Modric is set to return to first team training as the club are still yet to receive an acceptable offer for the midfielder.
Real Madrid has been heavily linked with the Croatia international this summer but Spurs have not been prepared to compromise on their asking price.
Villas-Boas believes that Modric must accept that there is little the club can do if an agreement is not reached before the end of the transfer window.
"He has been training separately," the Portuguese told Sky Sports. "Now it is important for Luka to feel mentally ready to come back to first team training.
"These boys are at a different level in terms of their preparation, concentration and commitment. I think the player has to understand that the club cannot do anything about other clubs' offers. We have a value and an interest that we have to defend, and we are waiting to reintegrate the player if the offer is not matched."
Modric's future at White Hart Lane is in doubt for the second consecutive summer, with Villas-Boas himself pursuing the playmaker this time last year as manager of Chelsea.
The 34-year-old hoped a resolution would be reached as soon as possible, ideally with Modric returning to the first team.
"We will try to solve it as soon as possible," he said. "It is the second time we have been through this situation. It is obviously difficult for him, but the chairman is defending the club's interests and the player has to understand that, and the fact that the offer does not meet the chairman's demands means we can't do anything."
"The player is a good professional and hopefully he will return to the team."
When asked if Modric could be ready to play at the start of the season, Villas-Boas replied: "Obviously he will have to raise his fitness level, and the sooner that we can have him reintegrated mentally and then physically, we will then see how things go."
Michael Keane relishes Manchester United first team opportunity
Manchester United youngster Michael Keane was delighted to receive his chance to impress in the Red Devils' first team during the 0-0 draw with Valerenga.
With regular left back Patrice Evra flying home to be with his pregnant wife as she went into labour, Keane was given a chance to line-up in the United defense despite not having played the role for more than a year.
Regardless of the unexpected nature of the call-up to the starting XI, the youngster was happy with his performance, and that of the team.
"It was strange," the 19-year-old told MUTV. "I've not played there [left back] for over a year now, but I thought I adapted quite well to the position and Rio and all the other players helped me out a lot, so I thought I did quite well."
"They've all got great experience and they're great players to play with. I grew up watching all of them and to play in the same team as them is great. I really enjoyed it."
Keane now hopes to be given a chance to take on Catalan giant Barcelona on Wednesday but insisted that he would enjoy watching United face Tito Vilanova's team even if he was not involved.
"We've only been here a day but we had a good time around the hotel and the game today was a great experience," he added. "It [the Barcelona game] is a great occasion for everyone and it'll just be a great game to watch, never mind play in if I get a chance. I'm looking forward to it."
United captain Nemanja Vidic made his return from a knee injury in the 0-0 with the Norwegian side, and was impressed by Keane's performance in defense.
"I'm glad he's had a full ninety minutes," the Serbian said. "He was confident on the ball and it's a big change from the youth academy, obviously, and I think he did really well."
Manchester United youngster Michael Keane was delighted to receive his chance to impress in the Red Devils' first team during the 0-0 draw with Valerenga.
With regular left back Patrice Evra flying home to be with his pregnant wife as she went into labour, Keane was given a chance to line-up in the United defense despite not having played the role for more than a year.
Regardless of the unexpected nature of the call-up to the starting XI, the youngster was happy with his performance, and that of the team.
"It was strange," the 19-year-old told MUTV. "I've not played there [left back] for over a year now, but I thought I adapted quite well to the position and Rio and all the other players helped me out a lot, so I thought I did quite well."
"They've all got great experience and they're great players to play with. I grew up watching all of them and to play in the same team as them is great. I really enjoyed it."
Keane now hopes to be given a chance to take on Catalan giant Barcelona on Wednesday but insisted that he would enjoy watching United face Tito Vilanova's team even if he was not involved.
"We've only been here a day but we had a good time around the hotel and the game today was a great experience," he added. "It [the Barcelona game] is a great occasion for everyone and it'll just be a great game to watch, never mind play in if I get a chance. I'm looking forward to it."
United captain Nemanja Vidic made his return from a knee injury in the 0-0 with the Norwegian side, and was impressed by Keane's performance in defense.
"I'm glad he's had a full ninety minutes," the Serbian said. "He was confident on the ball and it's a big change from the youth academy, obviously, and I think he did really well."
- Status
