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Wigan boss Martinez wary of Diame, West Ham threat
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has conceded that former Latics midfielder Mohammed Diame will be a threat to his team when West Ham visits the DW Stadium, but he has backed his players to concentrate on their own performances.
Diame left Wigan in the summer to join newly promoted West Ham, with Sam Allardyce overseeing a major revamp of the East London side's squad. The 25-year-old has impressed since joining the Hammers, a factor that hasn't gone unnoticed by Martinez who plucked him from Spanish Second Division obscurity in 2009.
"You look at West Ham, and you have to say that their recruitment over the summer was really powerful and of the highest quality," Martinez said. "You're talking about players like Andy Carroll, Matt Jarvis, Yossi Benayoun as well as Momo [Diame], who we all know really well. And when you're facing a team with so much quality you know you’re in for a really tough game.
"West Ham have started very well, and they're a side who - as well as having quality players throughout the team - are always strong and competitive. They're always very well-drilled at dead-ball situations and we'll have to be well aware of that aspect of the game."
But despite the concessions, Martinez insisted his Wigan side would only be interested in concentrating on its own game, underlining the squad's performance against Everton as the blueprint for the Latics to follow.
"If I'm honest with you, I don't think we can afford to be looking too much at the opposition," Martinez continued, We're in a position where we need to be looking at ourselves to find a way to perform at our best for 90 minutes. We need to match the performance against Everton in the last home game if we possibly can, and that is the key to getting that positive result or not."
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has conceded that former Latics midfielder Mohammed Diame will be a threat to his team when West Ham visits the DW Stadium, but he has backed his players to concentrate on their own performances.
Diame left Wigan in the summer to join newly promoted West Ham, with Sam Allardyce overseeing a major revamp of the East London side's squad. The 25-year-old has impressed since joining the Hammers, a factor that hasn't gone unnoticed by Martinez who plucked him from Spanish Second Division obscurity in 2009.
"You look at West Ham, and you have to say that their recruitment over the summer was really powerful and of the highest quality," Martinez said. "You're talking about players like Andy Carroll, Matt Jarvis, Yossi Benayoun as well as Momo [Diame], who we all know really well. And when you're facing a team with so much quality you know you’re in for a really tough game.
"West Ham have started very well, and they're a side who - as well as having quality players throughout the team - are always strong and competitive. They're always very well-drilled at dead-ball situations and we'll have to be well aware of that aspect of the game."
But despite the concessions, Martinez insisted his Wigan side would only be interested in concentrating on its own game, underlining the squad's performance against Everton as the blueprint for the Latics to follow.
"If I'm honest with you, I don't think we can afford to be looking too much at the opposition," Martinez continued, We're in a position where we need to be looking at ourselves to find a way to perform at our best for 90 minutes. We need to match the performance against Everton in the last home game if we possibly can, and that is the key to getting that positive result or not."
Arsenal boss Wenger tips Gnabry for the top
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has predicted a bright future ahead for youth prospect Serge Gnabry.
The 17-year-old German youth international has already made three first team appearances for the Gunners since bursting onto the senior scene this season.
Those displays have indicated what a bright future the former Stuttgart product could have in the game after showing glimpses of his vast potential.
And Wenger has backed his young star to make a name for himself in future.
"He's 17 years old and has a lot of talent," Wenger told The Sun. "Like all 17-year-olds, it's a bit too easy at that stage but the talent and personality are there. With the rest he just has to learn his job — that at this level you have to master all aspects of the game, of being a football player.
"But you see that he has the talent to make a good career."
Gnabry moved to Arsenal from Stuttgart in 2011 at the age of 16, and after breaking into the first team will be looking to push on and prove his manager right.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has predicted a bright future ahead for youth prospect Serge Gnabry.
The 17-year-old German youth international has already made three first team appearances for the Gunners since bursting onto the senior scene this season.
Those displays have indicated what a bright future the former Stuttgart product could have in the game after showing glimpses of his vast potential.
And Wenger has backed his young star to make a name for himself in future.
"He's 17 years old and has a lot of talent," Wenger told The Sun. "Like all 17-year-olds, it's a bit too easy at that stage but the talent and personality are there. With the rest he just has to learn his job — that at this level you have to master all aspects of the game, of being a football player.
"But you see that he has the talent to make a good career."
Gnabry moved to Arsenal from Stuttgart in 2011 at the age of 16, and after breaking into the first team will be looking to push on and prove his manager right.
Napoli could face further match-fixing punishment
Napoli could be fined and face penalties such as point deductions and player bans should it be found guilty of further match-fixing attempts.
The club has been under the spotlight since former goalkeeper Matteo Gianello was accused of attempting to rig the outcome of a game at Sampdoria two seasons ago.
Although two Napoli players, Paolo Cannavaro and Gianluca Grava, allegedly refused to help Giannello, the duo could be punished for failing to report the incident.
Juventus coach Antonio Conte is currently serving a suspension for not reporting his knowledge of an attempted match-fixing scandal, when he was the coach of Siena.
The news comes after the Partenopei were punished by UEFA on Friday, following crowd disturbance in the Europa League clash against AIK Solna on September 20.
Certain sections of the Stadio San Paolo will be prohibited from seating supporters for their next European clash at home to FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk on November 8.
Napoli could be fined and face penalties such as point deductions and player bans should it be found guilty of further match-fixing attempts.
The club has been under the spotlight since former goalkeeper Matteo Gianello was accused of attempting to rig the outcome of a game at Sampdoria two seasons ago.
Although two Napoli players, Paolo Cannavaro and Gianluca Grava, allegedly refused to help Giannello, the duo could be punished for failing to report the incident.
Juventus coach Antonio Conte is currently serving a suspension for not reporting his knowledge of an attempted match-fixing scandal, when he was the coach of Siena.
The news comes after the Partenopei were punished by UEFA on Friday, following crowd disturbance in the Europa League clash against AIK Solna on September 20.
Certain sections of the Stadio San Paolo will be prohibited from seating supporters for their next European clash at home to FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk on November 8.
Berlusconi sentence reduced to 12 months
AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi has had his jail sentence reduced to just 12 months, thanks to the application of a 2006 Amnesty Law aimed at reducing overcrowding in prisons.
The 76-year-old was originally handed a four-year jail sentence and a fine of 10 million euros on Friday, for his part in a tax fraud scandal.
Berlusconi, along with 10 others, was on trial after it was alleged that the defendants were involved in a scheme to purchase American movies for his company, Mediaset, through an offshore firm and had failed to properly declare payments so as to avoid taxes.
It was also claimed that Berlusconi had relicensed the films, and pocketed the difference, making the Milan supremo some 250 million euros.
The Italian has been involved in a number of legal procedures to do with his business ventures, but has either been cleared, or the cases have been dropped due to time constraints.
Berlusconi, who was not in court on Friday to hear the verdict, served as Prime Minister of Italy between 1994 and 1995, 2001 and 2006, and 2008 and 2011, but recently announced that he would not be running for a fourth term.
AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi has had his jail sentence reduced to just 12 months, thanks to the application of a 2006 Amnesty Law aimed at reducing overcrowding in prisons.
The 76-year-old was originally handed a four-year jail sentence and a fine of 10 million euros on Friday, for his part in a tax fraud scandal.
Berlusconi, along with 10 others, was on trial after it was alleged that the defendants were involved in a scheme to purchase American movies for his company, Mediaset, through an offshore firm and had failed to properly declare payments so as to avoid taxes.
It was also claimed that Berlusconi had relicensed the films, and pocketed the difference, making the Milan supremo some 250 million euros.
The Italian has been involved in a number of legal procedures to do with his business ventures, but has either been cleared, or the cases have been dropped due to time constraints.
Berlusconi, who was not in court on Friday to hear the verdict, served as Prime Minister of Italy between 1994 and 1995, 2001 and 2006, and 2008 and 2011, but recently announced that he would not be running for a fourth term.
Ancelotti: Menez has the qualities to play with Ibrahimovic
Paris Saint-Germain boss Carlo Ancelotti is very happy with Jeremy Menez's recent form and believes that the former Roma forward can form an effective partnership with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Frenchman has found the net just twice in his 15 competitive appearances for the capital club this season, but he scored one and made another in the 2-0 win over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday. And the former AC Milan coach is confident that his charge will soon find his best form and show his importance to the team.
"He's an important player," Ancelotti stated at a press conference. "He has the qualities to play with Zlatan. He's in good shape, he's motivated, and he likes playing up front. I am very happy with his performances. I think that he can be stronger once again."
PSG travels to Nancy on Saturday, and Ancelotti is adamant that his side will not be taking its opponents lightly, despite moving to the top of the Ligue 1 table last weekend.
"It will not be easy, because PSG often have difficulty at Nancy," Ancelotti stated. "I think that it will be equally difficult on Saturday. We have taken top spot in the table and we want to stay there. For these reason, the match will be important to us. We can improve. After the first three matches [all draws], we have put in some good work and have had a good run of results.
"We are going to try to improve our level of intensity, and at the moment our good work is showing in our performances. Everyone is motivated and there's a good atmosphere. But the players who have not had much game time have shown that they are ready. We're going through a good spell."
Paris Saint-Germain boss Carlo Ancelotti is very happy with Jeremy Menez's recent form and believes that the former Roma forward can form an effective partnership with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Frenchman has found the net just twice in his 15 competitive appearances for the capital club this season, but he scored one and made another in the 2-0 win over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday. And the former AC Milan coach is confident that his charge will soon find his best form and show his importance to the team.
"He's an important player," Ancelotti stated at a press conference. "He has the qualities to play with Zlatan. He's in good shape, he's motivated, and he likes playing up front. I am very happy with his performances. I think that he can be stronger once again."
PSG travels to Nancy on Saturday, and Ancelotti is adamant that his side will not be taking its opponents lightly, despite moving to the top of the Ligue 1 table last weekend.
"It will not be easy, because PSG often have difficulty at Nancy," Ancelotti stated. "I think that it will be equally difficult on Saturday. We have taken top spot in the table and we want to stay there. For these reason, the match will be important to us. We can improve. After the first three matches [all draws], we have put in some good work and have had a good run of results.
"We are going to try to improve our level of intensity, and at the moment our good work is showing in our performances. Everyone is motivated and there's a good atmosphere. But the players who have not had much game time have shown that they are ready. We're going through a good spell."
Di Matteo: Chelsea would support sacking rule
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has backed the introduction of a rule that would ensure players were sacked if they were found guilty of using racial abuse.
The Champions League-winning boss had previously given his full support to Chelsea captain John Terry, who was acquitted by a Magistrates' Court but found guilty by the FA for racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.
But Di Matteo stated that, if a rule that would mean sacking Terry in such a situation came into effect, he and the club would give it their full support.
"It's a difficult one. If the majority believe that we need a law like that then, as I said, we will obey it and support it," Di Matteo told reporters.
"If it will become a rule, we will play by the rules, as we have always done. As a club, we are against any kind of discrimination and, if it does go through then we will support it."
Terry was handed a fine by Chelsea in addition to the 220,000 pounds fine and four-match ban given to him by the FA. And while this was perceived as lenient in many quarters, Di Matteo insists the club acted in the appropriate fashion.
"Everybody has an opinion and we must respect that," he said. "We behave the way we think is right for our club and that's how we're going to go forward."
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League grudge match against Manchester United, the Chelsea squad will be expected to don 'Kick It Out' T-shirts during the warm up.
However, both Anton and Rio Ferdinand refused to wear their shirts last week in protest against a lack of progress by the campaign and Di Matteo has said that he will not force anyone to wear it if they do not wish to.
"We are supporting the Kick It Out campaign. It's going to be an individual choice for our players. We're not going to force anybody to, or not to, wear it," Di Matteo said.
"But my personal opinion is that we should wear it and we should raise awareness about it and show the support for it."
Di Matteo also stated that he expects Ashley Cole and Rio Ferdinand to shake hands in the wake of the Twitter controversy that saw Ferdinand retweet a comment saying Cole was a "choc-ice"
He added: "I've always said that from our point of view, we'll play our part. I don't foresee any problems in that sense. I hope that all the players will shake hands."
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has backed the introduction of a rule that would ensure players were sacked if they were found guilty of using racial abuse.
The Champions League-winning boss had previously given his full support to Chelsea captain John Terry, who was acquitted by a Magistrates' Court but found guilty by the FA for racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.
But Di Matteo stated that, if a rule that would mean sacking Terry in such a situation came into effect, he and the club would give it their full support.
"It's a difficult one. If the majority believe that we need a law like that then, as I said, we will obey it and support it," Di Matteo told reporters.
"If it will become a rule, we will play by the rules, as we have always done. As a club, we are against any kind of discrimination and, if it does go through then we will support it."
Terry was handed a fine by Chelsea in addition to the 220,000 pounds fine and four-match ban given to him by the FA. And while this was perceived as lenient in many quarters, Di Matteo insists the club acted in the appropriate fashion.
"Everybody has an opinion and we must respect that," he said. "We behave the way we think is right for our club and that's how we're going to go forward."
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League grudge match against Manchester United, the Chelsea squad will be expected to don 'Kick It Out' T-shirts during the warm up.
However, both Anton and Rio Ferdinand refused to wear their shirts last week in protest against a lack of progress by the campaign and Di Matteo has said that he will not force anyone to wear it if they do not wish to.
"We are supporting the Kick It Out campaign. It's going to be an individual choice for our players. We're not going to force anybody to, or not to, wear it," Di Matteo said.
"But my personal opinion is that we should wear it and we should raise awareness about it and show the support for it."
Di Matteo also stated that he expects Ashley Cole and Rio Ferdinand to shake hands in the wake of the Twitter controversy that saw Ferdinand retweet a comment saying Cole was a "choc-ice"
He added: "I've always said that from our point of view, we'll play our part. I don't foresee any problems in that sense. I hope that all the players will shake hands."
Celtic boss Lennon: Wanyama worth 25 million pounds
Celtic manager Neil Lennon has stated that midfield starlet Victor Wanyama is worth 25 million pounds.
The Bhoys' boss – himself a former midfielder for the Glasgow club – believes Wanyama has the quality to play for the biggest clubs in the world stage and confirmed that contract negotiations with the player had fallen through.
Goal.com understands that Manchester United has indeed scouted the player on more than one occasion, but that any talk of a formal move is premature and not in the pipeline at this stage. But Lennon was also keen to state that his club are not in a position where they have to sell the 21-year-old.
"Wanyama has the world at his feet," Lennon said. "But his feet are here, and they won't be going anywhere unless we say so."
Wanyama has been at Hampden Park since July 2011 when he moved from Belgian club Beerschot, but his agent had recently gone public over the failed contract talks.
"A month ago, he went on record saying how happy he was here, and I have no reason not to believe that," Lennon said
If Wanyama was to move, Lennon believes there would be no shortage of top clubs desiring his signature. Asked if Lennon thought the midfielder was good enough to play for Barcelona – who beat Celtic 2-1 thanks to a late Jordi Alba winner on Tuesday - Lennon responded: "I think he is, yes."
Celtic manager Neil Lennon has stated that midfield starlet Victor Wanyama is worth 25 million pounds.
The Bhoys' boss – himself a former midfielder for the Glasgow club – believes Wanyama has the quality to play for the biggest clubs in the world stage and confirmed that contract negotiations with the player had fallen through.
Goal.com understands that Manchester United has indeed scouted the player on more than one occasion, but that any talk of a formal move is premature and not in the pipeline at this stage. But Lennon was also keen to state that his club are not in a position where they have to sell the 21-year-old.
"Wanyama has the world at his feet," Lennon said. "But his feet are here, and they won't be going anywhere unless we say so."
Wanyama has been at Hampden Park since July 2011 when he moved from Belgian club Beerschot, but his agent had recently gone public over the failed contract talks.
"A month ago, he went on record saying how happy he was here, and I have no reason not to believe that," Lennon said
If Wanyama was to move, Lennon believes there would be no shortage of top clubs desiring his signature. Asked if Lennon thought the midfielder was good enough to play for Barcelona – who beat Celtic 2-1 thanks to a late Jordi Alba winner on Tuesday - Lennon responded: "I think he is, yes."
AC Milan owner Berlusconi sentenced to four years in prison
AC Milan owner and president and former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has received a four-year prison sentence for his part in a tax-fraud scandal.
The 76-year-old Berlusconi, along with 10 others, was on trial after it was alleged that the defendants were involved in a scheme to purchase American movies for his company, Mediaset, through an offshore company and had failed to declare payments properly to avoid taxes.
It was also alleged that Berlusconi had relicensed the films and pocketed the difference, making the Milan supremo some 250 million euros.
Berlusconi has been involved in a number of legal procedures to do with his business ventures, but had either been cleared or the cases had been dropped due to a time constraints. This time, though, he has been found guilty and will spend the next four years behind bars. His legal team is widely expected to appeal the verdict and overturn or lessen the sentence.
Berlusconi served as Prime Minister of the country between 1994 and 1995, 2001 and 2006, and 2008 and 2011, but he recently announced that he was not going to run for a fourth spell.
AC Milan owner and president and former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has received a four-year prison sentence for his part in a tax-fraud scandal.
The 76-year-old Berlusconi, along with 10 others, was on trial after it was alleged that the defendants were involved in a scheme to purchase American movies for his company, Mediaset, through an offshore company and had failed to declare payments properly to avoid taxes.
It was also alleged that Berlusconi had relicensed the films and pocketed the difference, making the Milan supremo some 250 million euros.
Berlusconi has been involved in a number of legal procedures to do with his business ventures, but had either been cleared or the cases had been dropped due to a time constraints. This time, though, he has been found guilty and will spend the next four years behind bars. His legal team is widely expected to appeal the verdict and overturn or lessen the sentence.
Berlusconi served as Prime Minister of the country between 1994 and 1995, 2001 and 2006, and 2008 and 2011, but he recently announced that he was not going to run for a fourth spell.
Maribor 1-1 Tottenham: Sigurdsson on target as Spurs stutter to Europa League draw
Tottenham slumped to its third draw of the Europa League group stages as Gylfi Sigurdsson's second-half goal rescued a point in a 1-1 draw with Solvenian champion Maribor.
Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas was without Emmanuel Adebayor and Gareth Bale for the trip to Slovenia although he was still able to name a strong side with the likes of Hugo Lloris, Jan Vertonghen, Jermain Defoe and captain for the night Aaron Lennon all in from the off.
The visiting side came close early on as Sigurdsson picked up on Martin Milec's loose headed clearance but could only lash a left-footed shot harmlessly wide.
Maribor had the ball in the net in the sixth minute as Robert Beric finished smartly passed Lloris although the flag had long been raised for offside before the 21-year-old forward had rounded the France skipper.
The first half was producing little by way of goalmouth action with Sigurdsson directing a tame header into Jasmin Handanovic's grasp before Sandro lashed an effort from distance just wide of the Maribor goalkeeper's right-hand post.
Jermain Defoe then came close to netting his eighth goal of the season in the 36th minute but he could only hook his effort wide of the far post after pouncing on Sandro's headed knock down.
Maribor started to show signs of improvement towards the end of the first period and, after Ales Mejac had fired just wide, the home side snatched the lead in the 42nd minute.
Dejan Mezga caused havoc in the Spurs defense as he ghosted past a limp challenge from Tom Huddlestone before drawing Lloris out of his goal and squaring for Beric to tap home into an empty net.
Villas-Boas opted to make a change at halftime as Iago Falque replaced the largely ineffective Andros Townsend although it was the Slovenian side that forced the first opening of the second half as Tavares' low shot was well held by Lloris.
Spurs did manage to force an equalizer just before the hour mark as Falque's ball across the middle of the box was parried by Handanovic before Defoe hammered an effort at goal.
The England international's stinging shot was well blocked on the line but Sigurdsson was in the right place at the right time to pick up the pieces and tap home to make it 1-1.
Maribor could, and perhaps should, have regained the lead when the ball found Agim Ibraimi free in the box but, as he cut inside on his left foot, he failed to test Lloris and diverted his shot into the side netting.
Ales Mertelj then struck a half volley straight down Lloris' throat, while at the other end Defoe's deflected shot was comfortably held by Handanovic as the visiting side started to get more of a grip on the game.
The yellow card came out after 73 minutes when Russian referee Dmitri Mosyakin deemed that Kyle Naughton had dived after cutting in from the left flank although Milec had certainly taken a chance by dangling a leg out.
Both sides had chances to win the game in the latter stages of the second half, with Vertonghen coming closest with a driving shot from distance that flew just wide, although it finished all square to leave the Premier League outfit in third in Group J on three points.
Tottenham slumped to its third draw of the Europa League group stages as Gylfi Sigurdsson's second-half goal rescued a point in a 1-1 draw with Solvenian champion Maribor.
Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas was without Emmanuel Adebayor and Gareth Bale for the trip to Slovenia although he was still able to name a strong side with the likes of Hugo Lloris, Jan Vertonghen, Jermain Defoe and captain for the night Aaron Lennon all in from the off.
The visiting side came close early on as Sigurdsson picked up on Martin Milec's loose headed clearance but could only lash a left-footed shot harmlessly wide.
Maribor had the ball in the net in the sixth minute as Robert Beric finished smartly passed Lloris although the flag had long been raised for offside before the 21-year-old forward had rounded the France skipper.
The first half was producing little by way of goalmouth action with Sigurdsson directing a tame header into Jasmin Handanovic's grasp before Sandro lashed an effort from distance just wide of the Maribor goalkeeper's right-hand post.
Jermain Defoe then came close to netting his eighth goal of the season in the 36th minute but he could only hook his effort wide of the far post after pouncing on Sandro's headed knock down.
Maribor started to show signs of improvement towards the end of the first period and, after Ales Mejac had fired just wide, the home side snatched the lead in the 42nd minute.
Dejan Mezga caused havoc in the Spurs defense as he ghosted past a limp challenge from Tom Huddlestone before drawing Lloris out of his goal and squaring for Beric to tap home into an empty net.
Villas-Boas opted to make a change at halftime as Iago Falque replaced the largely ineffective Andros Townsend although it was the Slovenian side that forced the first opening of the second half as Tavares' low shot was well held by Lloris.
Spurs did manage to force an equalizer just before the hour mark as Falque's ball across the middle of the box was parried by Handanovic before Defoe hammered an effort at goal.
The England international's stinging shot was well blocked on the line but Sigurdsson was in the right place at the right time to pick up the pieces and tap home to make it 1-1.
Maribor could, and perhaps should, have regained the lead when the ball found Agim Ibraimi free in the box but, as he cut inside on his left foot, he failed to test Lloris and diverted his shot into the side netting.
Ales Mertelj then struck a half volley straight down Lloris' throat, while at the other end Defoe's deflected shot was comfortably held by Handanovic as the visiting side started to get more of a grip on the game.
The yellow card came out after 73 minutes when Russian referee Dmitri Mosyakin deemed that Kyle Naughton had dived after cutting in from the left flank although Milec had certainly taken a chance by dangling a leg out.
Both sides had chances to win the game in the latter stages of the second half, with Vertonghen coming closest with a driving shot from distance that flew just wide, although it finished all square to leave the Premier League outfit in third in Group J on three points.
Manchester City boss Mancini hits back at tactics criticism
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has hit back at critics following his side's 3-1 defeat to Ajax in the UEFA Champions League.
The Italian was the target of criticism after the defeat to the Eredivisie title holders left them with little hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the competition.
When asked if he had endured a difficult couple of days, Mancini responded to reporters: "For you or for me?"
Speaking ahead of Saturday's fixture against Swansea City, Mancini added, "If you are a top player, it's not important which system you use. If you don't understand, you can't play for a top team."
Micah Richards claimed after the match that City had not worked on Mancini's 3-5-2 system, and that the players were not used to the formation. Despite Richards' criticism, Mancini has defended his player.
"I don't want to speak about Micah, because I don't think he said this," Mancini said. "He answered questions. It's not important. I understand you should write about this, but for me it's not important what Micah said after the game.
"With this system, every time we change the result. Maybe Micah doesn't know this, because it is the first game for him after he was out for two months. Probably he has worked less than the other players but maybe the next time when we play this system, he will understand it better."
"The players know the system. When you are on the bench and 2-1 away, the manager should do something from the bench," Mancini said. "We wanted to play more offensively and we conceded a third because of a mistake. I repeat, this system we played a minimum of 15 times last year. It is not a new system."
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has hit back at critics following his side's 3-1 defeat to Ajax in the UEFA Champions League.
The Italian was the target of criticism after the defeat to the Eredivisie title holders left them with little hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the competition.
When asked if he had endured a difficult couple of days, Mancini responded to reporters: "For you or for me?"
Speaking ahead of Saturday's fixture against Swansea City, Mancini added, "If you are a top player, it's not important which system you use. If you don't understand, you can't play for a top team."
Micah Richards claimed after the match that City had not worked on Mancini's 3-5-2 system, and that the players were not used to the formation. Despite Richards' criticism, Mancini has defended his player.
"I don't want to speak about Micah, because I don't think he said this," Mancini said. "He answered questions. It's not important. I understand you should write about this, but for me it's not important what Micah said after the game.
"With this system, every time we change the result. Maybe Micah doesn't know this, because it is the first game for him after he was out for two months. Probably he has worked less than the other players but maybe the next time when we play this system, he will understand it better."
The Manchester City boss remains confident that his side is able to get results by playing just three at the back, and he insists that this is not just something that he started experimenting with this season."The players know the system. When you are on the bench and 2-1 away, the manager should do something from the bench," Mancini said. "We wanted to play more offensively and we conceded a third because of a mistake. I repeat, this system we played a minimum of 15 times last year. It is not a new system."
Di Matteo: Lampard out for 'a few' weeks with calf injury
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has been ruled out for a further two weeks following the recurrence of a calf injury, his manager Roberto Di Matteo has confirmed.
Di Matteo was facing the press ahead of Sunday's encounter with Manchester United, and he conceded that Lampard will miss the game at Stamford Bridge. The England midfielder aggravated the pre-existing injury in Tuesday's 2-1 UEFA Champions League defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk and will miss the return leg, in addition to the United clash.
"He is going to be out for a few weeks," Di Matteo said. "He's got a calf problem, so we will miss him and it's a big loss for us. Apart from him everybody else is fit. Marko Marin might be in the squad for Sunday."
The 34-year-old Lampard had already been forced to sit out England's World Cup Qualifiers against San Marino and Poland in a bid to recover quickly from the injury, but he only lasted 15 minutes against Shakhtar in Ukraine before being withdrawn.
Lampard has played in seven Premier League matches this season, scoring three goals so far.
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has been ruled out for a further two weeks following the recurrence of a calf injury, his manager Roberto Di Matteo has confirmed.
Di Matteo was facing the press ahead of Sunday's encounter with Manchester United, and he conceded that Lampard will miss the game at Stamford Bridge. The England midfielder aggravated the pre-existing injury in Tuesday's 2-1 UEFA Champions League defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk and will miss the return leg, in addition to the United clash.
"He is going to be out for a few weeks," Di Matteo said. "He's got a calf problem, so we will miss him and it's a big loss for us. Apart from him everybody else is fit. Marko Marin might be in the squad for Sunday."
The 34-year-old Lampard had already been forced to sit out England's World Cup Qualifiers against San Marino and Poland in a bid to recover quickly from the injury, but he only lasted 15 minutes against Shakhtar in Ukraine before being withdrawn.
Lampard has played in seven Premier League matches this season, scoring three goals so far.
Sir Alex Ferguson: Not playing at the Olympics helped Chicharito
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has suggested that Chicharito is now benefitting from the rest he was able to get after the Scot agreed with the Mexican FA that he would not compete at the London 2012 Olympics.
Rest is something that the striker had not experienced since arriving at Old Trafford due to various international tournaments, and with the Confederations Cup and the Gold Cup coming up in 2013, Ferguson thought it was essential that the youngster got some rest. The Red Devils manager has suggested that resting is the reason that Hernandez was so sharp in midweek, scoring a double in the 3-2 win over Braga.
"The thing that is making the difference is he got a proper rest in the summer," Ferguson told reporters. "It wasn't exhausting in the way it had been in the previous three years. He was tremendous the other night.
"He is such a dedicated footballer and professional in every training session. He's a really terrific player and the good thing is that he is still improving."
The 70-year-old Ferguson now has a number of selection problems on his hands, as he has the likes of Danny Welbeck, Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Chicharito all battling for two places up front. Yet he praised his players' response to the situation.
"It's a good problem to have," Ferguson said continued. "I don't always enjoy it [telling players they're not playing] but it has to be done. In fairness to all the players they've accepted it well and adapted to it. I don't have any great problems other than having to tell one or two of them they're not playing."
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has suggested that Chicharito is now benefitting from the rest he was able to get after the Scot agreed with the Mexican FA that he would not compete at the London 2012 Olympics.
Rest is something that the striker had not experienced since arriving at Old Trafford due to various international tournaments, and with the Confederations Cup and the Gold Cup coming up in 2013, Ferguson thought it was essential that the youngster got some rest. The Red Devils manager has suggested that resting is the reason that Hernandez was so sharp in midweek, scoring a double in the 3-2 win over Braga.
"The thing that is making the difference is he got a proper rest in the summer," Ferguson told reporters. "It wasn't exhausting in the way it had been in the previous three years. He was tremendous the other night.
"He is such a dedicated footballer and professional in every training session. He's a really terrific player and the good thing is that he is still improving."
The 70-year-old Ferguson now has a number of selection problems on his hands, as he has the likes of Danny Welbeck, Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Chicharito all battling for two places up front. Yet he praised his players' response to the situation.
"It's a good problem to have," Ferguson said continued. "I don't always enjoy it [telling players they're not playing] but it has to be done. In fairness to all the players they've accepted it well and adapted to it. I don't have any great problems other than having to tell one or two of them they're not playing."
Chelsea's Falcao move marks the end for 62m euros Torres gamble
When Fernando Torres was asked earlier in October about Radamel Falcao’s future at Atletico Madrid, the Spaniard suggested that a player should not be held back once he becomes bigger than the club.
He had a point, and Falcao is likely to become a teammate of Torres at Chelsea in January as the Blues prepare a 60 million euros move for the in-form Colombian striker.
But, by the same token, what if a player is no longer good enough for his team?
The mere fact that Chelsea is moving for Falcao having spent more than 88m euros in the summer shows how much manager Roberto Di Matteo wants a leading striker as the Londoners look to win the Premier League title and retain their Champions League crown.
While Falcao’s arrival would not prompt Torres’ immediate departure from Stamford Bridge, it would force the former Liverpool man to once again accept a role as second fiddle, backup to the first-choice striker.
Didier Drogba’s summer departure was supposed to allow Torres to finally flourish after a miserable start to his Chelsea career following his 62m euros move to Stamford Bridge in 2011.
There has been improvement - Torres has scored four goals in eight Premier League appearances so far this season - but supporters have given up hoping that the 28-year-old will ever reproduce the form he showed at Liverpool.
Torres’ role this season has largely been as a selfless facilitator, linking up play for the likes of Eden Hazard, Juan Mata and Oscar to shine.
Yet he still lacks confidence and sharpness in front of goal - and Di Matteo is well aware of the lethal potential of combining the Blues’ attacking triumvirate with a lethal finisher like Falcao.
Torres’ arrival at Chelsea was seen at the time as a vanity signing by owner Roman Abramovich and, as he did with Andriy Shevchenko, the Russian billionaire finally appears to be ready to accept his mistake.
It has hard to believe just how much Torres’ star has fallen since he left Liverpool, where he scored 65 league goals in 102 appearances and was regarded as one of the best strikers in Europe with his searing pace and deadly finishing.
Sulky and sultry for much of his Chelsea career, Torres simply has not looked like he enjoys playing anymore. Maybe he could do with a fresh start himself, perhaps a return to Atletico Madrid.
For Falcao’s arrival from the Spanish capital will complete the most fearsome attack in English football but will once again relegate Torres to the substitutes’ bench. It is not a role he will accept, having even found time to criticize the team’s tactics after Chelsea’s historic Champions League triumph in May.
Many in Spain believe Torres has played too much football in his career, having played continually since making his professional debut for Atletico Madrid at the age of 17.
Whether it’s in his mind or his legs, it is now clear that Torres’ best days will remain in the past. That’s why Abramovich and Di Matteo will do everything in their power to sign Falcao in the New Year.
When Fernando Torres was asked earlier in October about Radamel Falcao’s future at Atletico Madrid, the Spaniard suggested that a player should not be held back once he becomes bigger than the club.
He had a point, and Falcao is likely to become a teammate of Torres at Chelsea in January as the Blues prepare a 60 million euros move for the in-form Colombian striker.
But, by the same token, what if a player is no longer good enough for his team?
The mere fact that Chelsea is moving for Falcao having spent more than 88m euros in the summer shows how much manager Roberto Di Matteo wants a leading striker as the Londoners look to win the Premier League title and retain their Champions League crown.
While Falcao’s arrival would not prompt Torres’ immediate departure from Stamford Bridge, it would force the former Liverpool man to once again accept a role as second fiddle, backup to the first-choice striker.
Didier Drogba’s summer departure was supposed to allow Torres to finally flourish after a miserable start to his Chelsea career following his 62m euros move to Stamford Bridge in 2011.
There has been improvement - Torres has scored four goals in eight Premier League appearances so far this season - but supporters have given up hoping that the 28-year-old will ever reproduce the form he showed at Liverpool.
Torres’ role this season has largely been as a selfless facilitator, linking up play for the likes of Eden Hazard, Juan Mata and Oscar to shine.
Yet he still lacks confidence and sharpness in front of goal - and Di Matteo is well aware of the lethal potential of combining the Blues’ attacking triumvirate with a lethal finisher like Falcao.
Torres’ arrival at Chelsea was seen at the time as a vanity signing by owner Roman Abramovich and, as he did with Andriy Shevchenko, the Russian billionaire finally appears to be ready to accept his mistake.
It has hard to believe just how much Torres’ star has fallen since he left Liverpool, where he scored 65 league goals in 102 appearances and was regarded as one of the best strikers in Europe with his searing pace and deadly finishing.
Sulky and sultry for much of his Chelsea career, Torres simply has not looked like he enjoys playing anymore. Maybe he could do with a fresh start himself, perhaps a return to Atletico Madrid.
For Falcao’s arrival from the Spanish capital will complete the most fearsome attack in English football but will once again relegate Torres to the substitutes’ bench. It is not a role he will accept, having even found time to criticize the team’s tactics after Chelsea’s historic Champions League triumph in May.
Many in Spain believe Torres has played too much football in his career, having played continually since making his professional debut for Atletico Madrid at the age of 17.
Whether it’s in his mind or his legs, it is now clear that Torres’ best days will remain in the past. That’s why Abramovich and Di Matteo will do everything in their power to sign Falcao in the New Year.
Pique: Barcelona wants to repeat Wembley success
Gerard Pique has made it clear that Barcelona dreams of going all the way in the Champions League, to win the club's third European Cup at Wembley - and its fifth in total.
The Catalans previously came out victorious at the London ground in 1992 and 2011, and Pique is determined to repeat those prior successes this term.
"Wembley means a lot for Barca. It's a very special stadium. The club won its first European Cup there with [Ronald] Koeman [against Sampdoria], and got another win in 2011," Pique stated at a social media event.
"We hope to repeat our success there, but the road is long. We're on the right track, although it won't be easy. We have to work hard."
Wembley is not the only English stadium that Pique has fond memories of, though, as he thoroughly enjoys the atmosphere in British arenas.
"You get the best atmosphere when you go to England in the Champions League. I still remember Andres [Iniesta]'s goal at Stamford Bridge or when we played away at Arsenal," Pique said. "In England you can feel the fans on top of you."
The center back then went on to discuss his favorite players, mentioning teammate Carles Puyol as one of his idols.
"My idols? [Franz] Beckenbauer was the greatest in my position. Then come [Paolo] Maldini, who was a real role model, and Puyi," he said. "In general, Johan Cruyff, Pele and [Diego] Maradona are the best players in the history of the game."
Gerard Pique has made it clear that Barcelona dreams of going all the way in the Champions League, to win the club's third European Cup at Wembley - and its fifth in total.
The Catalans previously came out victorious at the London ground in 1992 and 2011, and Pique is determined to repeat those prior successes this term.
"Wembley means a lot for Barca. It's a very special stadium. The club won its first European Cup there with [Ronald] Koeman [against Sampdoria], and got another win in 2011," Pique stated at a social media event.
"We hope to repeat our success there, but the road is long. We're on the right track, although it won't be easy. We have to work hard."
Wembley is not the only English stadium that Pique has fond memories of, though, as he thoroughly enjoys the atmosphere in British arenas.
"You get the best atmosphere when you go to England in the Champions League. I still remember Andres [Iniesta]'s goal at Stamford Bridge or when we played away at Arsenal," Pique said. "In England you can feel the fans on top of you."
The center back then went on to discuss his favorite players, mentioning teammate Carles Puyol as one of his idols.
"My idols? [Franz] Beckenbauer was the greatest in my position. Then come [Paolo] Maldini, who was a real role model, and Puyi," he said. "In general, Johan Cruyff, Pele and [Diego] Maradona are the best players in the history of the game."
Manchester United owners announce buyout of training kit sponsorship
Manchester United's owners, the Glazer family, have announced their decision to buy back the sponsorship rights to their training kit.
United entered into a 40 million pounds agreement with DHL in 2010 for the rights to sponsor its training wear, but has decided to take steps to end the agreement early as it feels better revenues could be sought elsewhere.
One reason stated to be behind the Glazers’ decision is their recent shirt sponsorship agreement with General Motors, in which the company will pay a world record figure of over 500m pounds to succeed AON in 2014.
"The significantly increased value of agreements concluded since entering into this agreement [with DHL], such as our world record shirt sponsorship with General Motors, leads us to believe that there should be strategic opportunities to further optimize the value of these rights," the owners said in a statement released on Thursday.
The Old Trafford outfit did, however, announce that DHL would continue as global logistics sponsor for the club.
"We have successfully negotiated an early buy-out of our training kit agreement with DHL effective 30 June, 2013. DHL will then continue as our global logistics sponsor,” the statement added.
Manchester United's owners, the Glazer family, have announced their decision to buy back the sponsorship rights to their training kit.
United entered into a 40 million pounds agreement with DHL in 2010 for the rights to sponsor its training wear, but has decided to take steps to end the agreement early as it feels better revenues could be sought elsewhere.
One reason stated to be behind the Glazers’ decision is their recent shirt sponsorship agreement with General Motors, in which the company will pay a world record figure of over 500m pounds to succeed AON in 2014.
"The significantly increased value of agreements concluded since entering into this agreement [with DHL], such as our world record shirt sponsorship with General Motors, leads us to believe that there should be strategic opportunities to further optimize the value of these rights," the owners said in a statement released on Thursday.
The Old Trafford outfit did, however, announce that DHL would continue as global logistics sponsor for the club.
"We have successfully negotiated an early buy-out of our training kit agreement with DHL effective 30 June, 2013. DHL will then continue as our global logistics sponsor,” the statement added.
El Shaarawy: We are all behind Allegri
Stephan El Shaarawy has made it clear that AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri still has his squad's full support as they are determined to get back on track with the 45-year-old at the helm.
Allegri's position has come under fire following the Rossoneri's disappointing start to the 2012-13 campaign, but his players remain confident the former Cagliari boss is the right man for the job.
"We are all with him, every single player. We supported him in the beginning and that hasn't changed. That's all that counts. Everything else that's written is nonsense," El Shaarawy told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
He added, "I know that it might be hard to believe, but the atmosphere in the dressing room is very calm. The coach is confident, and so are the team and the club.
"We will get out of this situation. We all know that we have a great team and deserve to sit higher in the table."
Milan will be looking to return to winning ways on Saturday when it hosts Genoa.
Stephan El Shaarawy has made it clear that AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri still has his squad's full support as they are determined to get back on track with the 45-year-old at the helm.
Allegri's position has come under fire following the Rossoneri's disappointing start to the 2012-13 campaign, but his players remain confident the former Cagliari boss is the right man for the job.
"We are all with him, every single player. We supported him in the beginning and that hasn't changed. That's all that counts. Everything else that's written is nonsense," El Shaarawy told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
He added, "I know that it might be hard to believe, but the atmosphere in the dressing room is very calm. The coach is confident, and so are the team and the club.
"We will get out of this situation. We all know that we have a great team and deserve to sit higher in the table."
Milan will be looking to return to winning ways on Saturday when it hosts Genoa.
Liverpool 1-0 Anzhi Makhachkala: Downing wonder goal moves Reds top of Group A
A wonder strike from Stewart Downing was enough to give Liverpool a deserved 1-0 Europa League win over Anzhi Makhachkala at Anfield
The much-derided winger’s 20-yard effort proved enough for the Reds, who wasted a host of chances to put the game out of sight.
Daniel Agger had a goal disallowed for heading the ball out of goalkeeper Vladimir Galubov’s hand, after Jonjo Shelvey had wasted a fantastic chance to give Liverpool the lead, before Downing’s goal settled the match and moved the Reds to the top of Group A.
Brendan Rodgers named a strong Liverpool lineup despite the looming prospect of the Merseyside derby at the weekend. Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez both started at Anfield, while Oussama Assaidi and Downing also got the nod.
Brad Jones started in goal for the Reds, with Pepe Reina still ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Shelvey also earned a start ahead of Joe Allen.
Anzhi Makhachkala named Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o in the starting lineup, while former Blackburn defender Chris Samba started in defense for the visiting side, but manager Guus Hiddink was without former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra, who was ruled out with a knee injury.
The home side dominated the early possession, with Suarez looking particularly lively, but it took until the 12th minute for Liverpool to fashion a chance. Assaidi pulled back to Suarez on the edge of the box, but the Uruguay international’s effort tamely rolled into the arms of Gabulov.
Assaidi was involved once again as Liverpool created another decent chance after a spell of Anzhi possession. The 24-year-old darted into the box and found Johnson, who drove a left-footed strike towards goal which the goalkeeper could only parry away.
Shelvey had a glorious chance to put the home team in front minutes later, as Suarez broke free of the Anzhi defense and squared to the 20-year-old, but the midfielder blasted his first-time effort well clear of the bar.
The second half started with yet more Liverpool possession. Martin Skrtel won the ball in an advanced position and drove a dangerous half-volley towards goal, which Galubov eventually gathered at the second time of asking.
'Pool created another fantastic chance moments later but failed to capitalize once more. Shelvey broke free and lifted the ball into the area towards an unmarked Gerrard, but the cross was just behind the Reds skipper who couldn’t quite direct his header on target.
On 53 minutes the deadlock was finally broken in spectacular fashion. Shelvey spread the ball out to Downing, who chose to cut inside and then unleashed a rasping right-footed effort from 20 yards which flew into the far corner.
Suarez nearly doubled the lead within 60 seconds with a fizzing left-footed strike from 25 yards which ricocheted off the stanchion and into the side netting, before Yuri Zhirkov was forced to make a last-ditch challenge with Shelvey bearing down on goal.
Some lackadaisical passing in defense led to a chance for the visitng team, but Samuel Eto’o’s strike on the turn was easily dealt with by Jones, who had a very quiet evening in the Liverpool goal, as the home side saw out the win.
A wonder strike from Stewart Downing was enough to give Liverpool a deserved 1-0 Europa League win over Anzhi Makhachkala at Anfield
The much-derided winger’s 20-yard effort proved enough for the Reds, who wasted a host of chances to put the game out of sight.
Daniel Agger had a goal disallowed for heading the ball out of goalkeeper Vladimir Galubov’s hand, after Jonjo Shelvey had wasted a fantastic chance to give Liverpool the lead, before Downing’s goal settled the match and moved the Reds to the top of Group A.
Brendan Rodgers named a strong Liverpool lineup despite the looming prospect of the Merseyside derby at the weekend. Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez both started at Anfield, while Oussama Assaidi and Downing also got the nod.
Brad Jones started in goal for the Reds, with Pepe Reina still ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Shelvey also earned a start ahead of Joe Allen.
Anzhi Makhachkala named Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o in the starting lineup, while former Blackburn defender Chris Samba started in defense for the visiting side, but manager Guus Hiddink was without former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra, who was ruled out with a knee injury.
The home side dominated the early possession, with Suarez looking particularly lively, but it took until the 12th minute for Liverpool to fashion a chance. Assaidi pulled back to Suarez on the edge of the box, but the Uruguay international’s effort tamely rolled into the arms of Gabulov.
Assaidi was involved once again as Liverpool created another decent chance after a spell of Anzhi possession. The 24-year-old darted into the box and found Johnson, who drove a left-footed strike towards goal which the goalkeeper could only parry away.
Shelvey had a glorious chance to put the home team in front minutes later, as Suarez broke free of the Anzhi defense and squared to the 20-year-old, but the midfielder blasted his first-time effort well clear of the bar.
The second half started with yet more Liverpool possession. Martin Skrtel won the ball in an advanced position and drove a dangerous half-volley towards goal, which Galubov eventually gathered at the second time of asking.
'Pool created another fantastic chance moments later but failed to capitalize once more. Shelvey broke free and lifted the ball into the area towards an unmarked Gerrard, but the cross was just behind the Reds skipper who couldn’t quite direct his header on target.
On 53 minutes the deadlock was finally broken in spectacular fashion. Shelvey spread the ball out to Downing, who chose to cut inside and then unleashed a rasping right-footed effort from 20 yards which flew into the far corner.
Suarez nearly doubled the lead within 60 seconds with a fizzing left-footed strike from 25 yards which ricocheted off the stanchion and into the side netting, before Yuri Zhirkov was forced to make a last-ditch challenge with Shelvey bearing down on goal.
Some lackadaisical passing in defense led to a chance for the visitng team, but Samuel Eto’o’s strike on the turn was easily dealt with by Jones, who had a very quiet evening in the Liverpool goal, as the home side saw out the win.
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