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
Ancelotti and Leonardo to face disciplinary committee
Carlo Ancelotti and Leonardo have been summoned before the French Football Federation's (FFF) disciplinary committee.
The pair made comments relating to referee Clement Turpin's controversial decision to send off Mamadou Sakho for a tackle on Gaetan Charbonnier, 10 minutes into Paris Saint-Germain's 1-1 draw with Montpellier last Sunday.
"It's not possible to be happy," the former Brazil international told Canal+ after the game. "And it is impossible not to talk about the referee. If after 10 minutes you play with 10 men, the expulsion is difficult to understand.
"I saw the videos. We ask our players to be professionals. I have nothing against Mr Turpin. He is 30-years-old. He's young. He still has a lot to learn. He is also the referee who expelled Ancelotti and [Ezequiel] Lavezzi in Ajaccio [in week two of the Ligue 1 season].
Leonardo will be joined by Ancelotti at the December hearing, after the Italian asked for "more respect" from referees at a press conference following the same game.
The statements made by the pair have come under fire from Stade Rennais coach Frederic Antonetti, who came out in support of Turpin ahead of Saturday's match between the two sides.
"Leonardo said he wanted fair refereeing, but on every decision he mentioned the referee got it right," the 51-year-old told L'Equipe. "Everybody wants fair refereeing but what bothered me is that I have the feeling he wanted it a little bit more. Paris Saint-Germain are a real Italian club playing in France."
Carlo Ancelotti and Leonardo have been summoned before the French Football Federation's (FFF) disciplinary committee.
The pair made comments relating to referee Clement Turpin's controversial decision to send off Mamadou Sakho for a tackle on Gaetan Charbonnier, 10 minutes into Paris Saint-Germain's 1-1 draw with Montpellier last Sunday.
"It's not possible to be happy," the former Brazil international told Canal+ after the game. "And it is impossible not to talk about the referee. If after 10 minutes you play with 10 men, the expulsion is difficult to understand.
"I saw the videos. We ask our players to be professionals. I have nothing against Mr Turpin. He is 30-years-old. He's young. He still has a lot to learn. He is also the referee who expelled Ancelotti and [Ezequiel] Lavezzi in Ajaccio [in week two of the Ligue 1 season].
Leonardo will be joined by Ancelotti at the December hearing, after the Italian asked for "more respect" from referees at a press conference following the same game.
The statements made by the pair have come under fire from Stade Rennais coach Frederic Antonetti, who came out in support of Turpin ahead of Saturday's match between the two sides.
"Leonardo said he wanted fair refereeing, but on every decision he mentioned the referee got it right," the 51-year-old told L'Equipe. "Everybody wants fair refereeing but what bothered me is that I have the feeling he wanted it a little bit more. Paris Saint-Germain are a real Italian club playing in France."
'Scholes is a genius' - Carrick hails Manchester United teammate on 38th birthday
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has heaped praise on teammate Paul Scholes, as the Old Trafford legend celebrates his 38th birthday.
Scholes, who recently chalked up his 700th match for the club, is nearing a year back in Sir Alex Ferguson's squad following his decision to return from retirement.
And Carrick - set to mark a milestone of his own by making the 400th league appearance of his career this weekend - believes having Scholes as his mentor has had a major effect on him.
"It is fantastic to play with Paul Scholes," Carrick told the club's official website. "He is a genius. We all know what he can do. A lot of them you simply cannot teach.
"You can learn and take things from his game, as I have done since I have been here. Whether he realizes or not, he has helped me enormously just by watching him and taking things in. But there are some things only he can do. It is fabulous to play with him. I have enjoyed it immensely since I came here."
The former Tottenham man went on to reveal that he was unaware of reaching his upcoming landmark and insisted silverware remains his main focus.
"It's the first I have heard of that," Carrick confessed. "It is one of those things. I have been playing for a number of years and the games add up. It is not something I look for.
"It is more about the trophies, what people win and what they can achieve. Maybe at the end of your career you can look back and see what you have done. But at the moment, it is just about winning trophies for me."
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has heaped praise on teammate Paul Scholes, as the Old Trafford legend celebrates his 38th birthday.
Scholes, who recently chalked up his 700th match for the club, is nearing a year back in Sir Alex Ferguson's squad following his decision to return from retirement.
And Carrick - set to mark a milestone of his own by making the 400th league appearance of his career this weekend - believes having Scholes as his mentor has had a major effect on him.
"It is fantastic to play with Paul Scholes," Carrick told the club's official website. "He is a genius. We all know what he can do. A lot of them you simply cannot teach.
"You can learn and take things from his game, as I have done since I have been here. Whether he realizes or not, he has helped me enormously just by watching him and taking things in. But there are some things only he can do. It is fabulous to play with him. I have enjoyed it immensely since I came here."
The former Tottenham man went on to reveal that he was unaware of reaching his upcoming landmark and insisted silverware remains his main focus.
"It's the first I have heard of that," Carrick confessed. "It is one of those things. I have been playing for a number of years and the games add up. It is not something I look for.
"It is more about the trophies, what people win and what they can achieve. Maybe at the end of your career you can look back and see what you have done. But at the moment, it is just about winning trophies for me."
Di Matteo: No chance of Romeu leaving Chelsea in January
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has insisted there is "absolutely no chance" of central midfielder Oriol Romeu leaving the club in January.
The 21-year-old has featured just four times for the Blues this season, leading to suggestions that he might be set for an exit when the transfer window reopens.
But, despite admitting there had been some interest from other clubs, Di Matteo reiterated his desire to retain the Spaniard with John Obi Mikel set to partcipate in the Africa Cup of Nations in January.
"There is absolutely no chance of him leaving in January," Di Matteo told Sky Sports. "He has been playing a bit more lately and he will be playing more in the future.
"Romeu is a very young talent with good prospects for the future. He has offers from other clubs and especially from Spain but I have had calls from Italy as well. But he will not leave."
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has insisted there is "absolutely no chance" of central midfielder Oriol Romeu leaving the club in January.
The 21-year-old has featured just four times for the Blues this season, leading to suggestions that he might be set for an exit when the transfer window reopens.
But, despite admitting there had been some interest from other clubs, Di Matteo reiterated his desire to retain the Spaniard with John Obi Mikel set to partcipate in the Africa Cup of Nations in January.
"There is absolutely no chance of him leaving in January," Di Matteo told Sky Sports. "He has been playing a bit more lately and he will be playing more in the future.
"Romeu is a very young talent with good prospects for the future. He has offers from other clubs and especially from Spain but I have had calls from Italy as well. But he will not leave."
Bale: Arsenal clash perfect opportunity to recover from Manchester City loss
Gareth Bale believes the upcoming north London derby against Arsenal presents the “perfect situation” for Tottenham to recover from Sunday’s loss to Manchester City.
Spurs have endured a mixed campaign so far, reaching as high as fourth before two defeats on the bounce saw Andre Villas-Boas’ side drop to seventh in the Premier League table.
However, Bale is positive he and his teammates can get their form back on track with a victory over their close rivals at the Emirates.
"It’s almost the perfect situation," the Welshman told the club’s official website. "All form goes out of the window in the derby; we’ll go out there to play for the fans and try to go out for a victory.
"You step onto the pitch and feel the atmosphere around you. It’s a great day and hopefully we’ll come out on top."
Bale also emphasised the importance of the atmosphere during the game, with the fans' “noise and energy” capable of giving the team a valuable boost.
He continued: “The lads concentrate on the game and try to treat it as just another game, but we know how important it is for the fans.
"If you score a goal, the noise and energy around the stadium gives you a lift and keeps you going. I did it before and I'm looking to trying to do the same again.”
Gareth Bale believes the upcoming north London derby against Arsenal presents the “perfect situation” for Tottenham to recover from Sunday’s loss to Manchester City.
Spurs have endured a mixed campaign so far, reaching as high as fourth before two defeats on the bounce saw Andre Villas-Boas’ side drop to seventh in the Premier League table.
However, Bale is positive he and his teammates can get their form back on track with a victory over their close rivals at the Emirates.
"It’s almost the perfect situation," the Welshman told the club’s official website. "All form goes out of the window in the derby; we’ll go out there to play for the fans and try to go out for a victory.
"You step onto the pitch and feel the atmosphere around you. It’s a great day and hopefully we’ll come out on top."
Bale also emphasised the importance of the atmosphere during the game, with the fans' “noise and energy” capable of giving the team a valuable boost.
He continued: “The lads concentrate on the game and try to treat it as just another game, but we know how important it is for the fans.
"If you score a goal, the noise and energy around the stadium gives you a lift and keeps you going. I did it before and I'm looking to trying to do the same again.”
Kehl: Borussia Dortmund can still win the league
Sebastian Kehl believes Borussia Dortmund can retain its Bundesliga crown, despite trailing leaders Bayern Munich by 11 points.
BVB won the domestic double for the first time in their history last season, but have struggled domestically this term, leaving them in fourth place ahead of Saturday's clash with Greuther Furth.
But the 32-year-old is refusing to give up on his goal of lifting a third consecutive league title.
"I think the current table situation will not be the same at the end [of the season]," he told reporters at a press conference. "There are still a lot of matches to be played, and we still have half a year in front of us.
"We will keep on believing in our ability to finish in a top position. We certainly do have the potential and therefore the season for us is far from over."
He then went on to discuss Dortmund's chances of reaching the knockout stages of the Champions League, with the club top of Group D on eight points after its first four games.
"So far we have been outstanding,“ he continued. "[We] really [have] the best situation and the possibility to clinch everything next week in Amsterdam."
Sebastian Kehl believes Borussia Dortmund can retain its Bundesliga crown, despite trailing leaders Bayern Munich by 11 points.
BVB won the domestic double for the first time in their history last season, but have struggled domestically this term, leaving them in fourth place ahead of Saturday's clash with Greuther Furth.
But the 32-year-old is refusing to give up on his goal of lifting a third consecutive league title.
"I think the current table situation will not be the same at the end [of the season]," he told reporters at a press conference. "There are still a lot of matches to be played, and we still have half a year in front of us.
"We will keep on believing in our ability to finish in a top position. We certainly do have the potential and therefore the season for us is far from over."
He then went on to discuss Dortmund's chances of reaching the knockout stages of the Champions League, with the club top of Group D on eight points after its first four games.
"So far we have been outstanding,“ he continued. "[We] really [have] the best situation and the possibility to clinch everything next week in Amsterdam."
Szczesny: Form is irrelevant during Arsenal-Tottenham clash
Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny believes the form of his teammates and rivals Tottenham will prove meaningless during the "massive" north London derby this weekend.
The two sides managed third and fourth-place finishes respectively last season, but find themselves in seventh and eighth place after eleven games of this campaign.
However, Szczesny, who has returned to full fitness ahead of Saturday’s clash, reckons that prior form will count for nothing when the rivals face off at the Emirates.
“It’s a massive game, and it doesn’t really matter what form you are in when it comes around,” the Polish shot stopper told the club's official matchday program. Both teams have had some disappointing results recently, but it’s all about commitment in this one and I’m confident we can go out there and get the job done.
“Hopefully it can have the same effect for us that it did in February, when it really kick-started our season. It comes a little bit earlier this year, so after a frustrating couple of weeks we hope a similar thing can happen - and over a longer period.”
Szczesny has been absent for most of the season through injury, while a tumultuous Euro 2012 campaign saw him sent off in Poland’s opening game against Greece.
And the goalkeeper is determined to draw strength from the incident and use the experience to spur him on in future.
He said: “It probably made me a stronger person rather than a stronger goalkeeper.
“You can’t take a lot of good things out of it - I was sent off in what was probably one of the most important games of my life, and was half-guilty for the goal we conceded as well. But it was a learning curve for me and I think I did take strength from it.
“Before the Euros, as I said at the time, I felt physically at my best - my preparation had been fantastic, I felt really sharp and couldn’t wait, but I found out that you never know what’s around the corner. You just have to try to make the most of all the opportunities you’re given."
Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny believes the form of his teammates and rivals Tottenham will prove meaningless during the "massive" north London derby this weekend.
The two sides managed third and fourth-place finishes respectively last season, but find themselves in seventh and eighth place after eleven games of this campaign.
However, Szczesny, who has returned to full fitness ahead of Saturday’s clash, reckons that prior form will count for nothing when the rivals face off at the Emirates.
“It’s a massive game, and it doesn’t really matter what form you are in when it comes around,” the Polish shot stopper told the club's official matchday program. Both teams have had some disappointing results recently, but it’s all about commitment in this one and I’m confident we can go out there and get the job done.
“Hopefully it can have the same effect for us that it did in February, when it really kick-started our season. It comes a little bit earlier this year, so after a frustrating couple of weeks we hope a similar thing can happen - and over a longer period.”
Szczesny has been absent for most of the season through injury, while a tumultuous Euro 2012 campaign saw him sent off in Poland’s opening game against Greece.
And the goalkeeper is determined to draw strength from the incident and use the experience to spur him on in future.
He said: “It probably made me a stronger person rather than a stronger goalkeeper.
“You can’t take a lot of good things out of it - I was sent off in what was probably one of the most important games of my life, and was half-guilty for the goal we conceded as well. But it was a learning curve for me and I think I did take strength from it.
“Before the Euros, as I said at the time, I felt physically at my best - my preparation had been fantastic, I felt really sharp and couldn’t wait, but I found out that you never know what’s around the corner. You just have to try to make the most of all the opportunities you’re given."
Agent: Balotelli is not leaving Manchester City
Mario Balotelli is to remain at Manchester City despite increased speculation linking the striker with a move away, according to the player’s agent.
Both AC Milan and Inter have been credited with interest in the Italy international in the past, with the former’s owner Silvio Berlusconi recently admitting he "liked the player".
Balotelli, who was left out of the 18-man squad which faced Tottenham last weekend, was recently assured by manager Roberto Mancini that his future at Etihad Stadium is secure and his representative Mino Raiola supports the assertions.
"He feels really good at City," Raiola told Mediaset. "There is no crisis between Mario and City or between Mario and Mancini. What the papers write is garbage. Not being happy at being in the stands is completely different to wanting to leave."
And Raiola continued to state his belief that Balotelli would remain at the club for the foreseeable future, with a move to Italy unfeasible.
"We plan to stay at City for at least another year-and-a-half. Even if we did decide to leave tomorrow, I don't think there are any clubs in Italy that could sign him," he concluded.
Mario Balotelli is to remain at Manchester City despite increased speculation linking the striker with a move away, according to the player’s agent.
Both AC Milan and Inter have been credited with interest in the Italy international in the past, with the former’s owner Silvio Berlusconi recently admitting he "liked the player".
Balotelli, who was left out of the 18-man squad which faced Tottenham last weekend, was recently assured by manager Roberto Mancini that his future at Etihad Stadium is secure and his representative Mino Raiola supports the assertions.
"He feels really good at City," Raiola told Mediaset. "There is no crisis between Mario and City or between Mario and Mancini. What the papers write is garbage. Not being happy at being in the stands is completely different to wanting to leave."
And Raiola continued to state his belief that Balotelli would remain at the club for the foreseeable future, with a move to Italy unfeasible.
"We plan to stay at City for at least another year-and-a-half. Even if we did decide to leave tomorrow, I don't think there are any clubs in Italy that could sign him," he concluded.
Gerrard reveals coaching desire once England duties are over
Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard has revealed his intention to undergo coaching qualifications and aim for a career in management, but only when he calls time on his international career.
Having reached the 100-cap plateau for his country against Sweden on Wednesday, the 32-year-old Gerrard is not contemplating retiring from his England duties just yet but admits he is seriously assessing what options are available to him when that time comes.
“I’m going to go into my coaching badges after my England days are over and when I’ve got the time," Gerrard told the Football Association's official website. "When the international breaks are on, I’ll go and do my coaching badges and we’ll see where it goes.”
Gerrard understands that his achievements on the field will not determine his success as a coach or manager, and he will have no qualms about walking away if he feels out of place in the dugout.
“I’ve always said I’ll only become a coach or a manager if I’m good enough,” he explained. “I don’t think you go down that road because you’ve been a decent player. That’s a mistake that a lot of footballers have made. Only go down that road if you’re good enough. You have to try it, get your badges first and make sure you’re comfortable and have your own belief in your own knowledge of the game.”
Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard has revealed his intention to undergo coaching qualifications and aim for a career in management, but only when he calls time on his international career.
Having reached the 100-cap plateau for his country against Sweden on Wednesday, the 32-year-old Gerrard is not contemplating retiring from his England duties just yet but admits he is seriously assessing what options are available to him when that time comes.
“I’m going to go into my coaching badges after my England days are over and when I’ve got the time," Gerrard told the Football Association's official website. "When the international breaks are on, I’ll go and do my coaching badges and we’ll see where it goes.”
Gerrard understands that his achievements on the field will not determine his success as a coach or manager, and he will have no qualms about walking away if he feels out of place in the dugout.
“I’ve always said I’ll only become a coach or a manager if I’m good enough,” he explained. “I don’t think you go down that road because you’ve been a decent player. That’s a mistake that a lot of footballers have made. Only go down that road if you’re good enough. You have to try it, get your badges first and make sure you’re comfortable and have your own belief in your own knowledge of the game.”
Best yet to come from Manchester City, insists Aguero
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has backed the English champions to rediscover the form that saw them lift the Premier League trophy last season.
Roberto Mancini's men have had a good start to the domestic season, sitting two points behind league leaders Manchester United and remaining the only unbeaten side in the table, but with the club having drawn four times already, some have raised questions as to whether City has lost their ability to kill off games.
The Argentina international concedes he can understand the criticism, admitting the Citizens are missing some of their cutting edge, but with a number of stars returning from injury, City will soon be back to their best, according to Aguero.
“It’s true that we don’t have the same flair in the games as we had last season and we’ve scored less goals for sure,” he told the club's official website. “But the Premier League table says something different. We are very hard to beat, we are second in the table and defending well, so we can’t be doing that badly, can we?
“We have been hindered by a string of bad injuries to important players – David (Silva), Pablo (Zabaleta), Javi Garcia, Micah (Richards), Joleon (Lescott), Maicon, (Gareth) Barry, (James) Milner, Samir (Nasri), myself.
"It’s not simple when they all happen simultaneously, and I think I’m correct in saying we had very few injuries last season. If we have been succeeding even in spite of these difficulties, then it makes me believe that the best is still to come and we’ll be able to repeat our form of last year."
The 24-year-old missed around a month of action early in the campaign after suffering a knee injury in the win over Southampton in their first game of the term. The former Atletico Madrid man revealed the frustration of being sidelined after a good pre-season, and believes his determination for successful return led to goal-scoring displays in his last two outings against Tottenham and Ajax.
“From a personal point of view, it was a pity to get injured so early in the new season," Aguero said. "I had an intense preseason and I felt in terrific shape. Then I had to stop and start back from scratch which was hardly ideal, but I’m in top form right now and feel sharp and hungry.
“Injuries in general can be frustrating because they can halt you in full flow. But in my case, I was so motivated to get back on the field that it overcomes any frustration.”
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has backed the English champions to rediscover the form that saw them lift the Premier League trophy last season.
Roberto Mancini's men have had a good start to the domestic season, sitting two points behind league leaders Manchester United and remaining the only unbeaten side in the table, but with the club having drawn four times already, some have raised questions as to whether City has lost their ability to kill off games.
The Argentina international concedes he can understand the criticism, admitting the Citizens are missing some of their cutting edge, but with a number of stars returning from injury, City will soon be back to their best, according to Aguero.
“It’s true that we don’t have the same flair in the games as we had last season and we’ve scored less goals for sure,” he told the club's official website. “But the Premier League table says something different. We are very hard to beat, we are second in the table and defending well, so we can’t be doing that badly, can we?
“We have been hindered by a string of bad injuries to important players – David (Silva), Pablo (Zabaleta), Javi Garcia, Micah (Richards), Joleon (Lescott), Maicon, (Gareth) Barry, (James) Milner, Samir (Nasri), myself.
"It’s not simple when they all happen simultaneously, and I think I’m correct in saying we had very few injuries last season. If we have been succeeding even in spite of these difficulties, then it makes me believe that the best is still to come and we’ll be able to repeat our form of last year."
The 24-year-old missed around a month of action early in the campaign after suffering a knee injury in the win over Southampton in their first game of the term. The former Atletico Madrid man revealed the frustration of being sidelined after a good pre-season, and believes his determination for successful return led to goal-scoring displays in his last two outings against Tottenham and Ajax.
“From a personal point of view, it was a pity to get injured so early in the new season," Aguero said. "I had an intense preseason and I felt in terrific shape. Then I had to stop and start back from scratch which was hardly ideal, but I’m in top form right now and feel sharp and hungry.
“Injuries in general can be frustrating because they can halt you in full flow. But in my case, I was so motivated to get back on the field that it overcomes any frustration.”
Best yet to come from Manchester City, insists Aguero
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has backed the English champions to rediscover the form that saw them lift the Premier League trophy last season.
Roberto Mancini's men have had a good start to the domestic season, sitting two points behind league leaders Manchester United and remaining the only unbeaten side in the table, but with the club having drawn four times already, some have raised questions as to whether City has lost their ability to kill off games.
The Argentina international concedes he can understand the criticism, admitting the Citizens are missing some of their cutting edge, but with a number of stars returning from injury, City will soon be back to their best, according to Aguero.
“It’s true that we don’t have the same flair in the games as we had last season and we’ve scored less goals for sure,” he told the club's official website. “But the Premier League table says something different. We are very hard to beat, we are second in the table and defending well, so we can’t be doing that badly, can we?
“We have been hindered by a string of bad injuries to important players – David (Silva), Pablo (Zabaleta), Javi Garcia, Micah (Richards), Joleon (Lescott), Maicon, (Gareth) Barry, (James) Milner, Samir (Nasri), myself.
"It’s not simple when they all happen simultaneously, and I think I’m correct in saying we had very few injuries last season. If we have been succeeding even in spite of these difficulties, then it makes me believe that the best is still to come and we’ll be able to repeat our form of last year."
The 24-year-old missed around a month of action early in the campaign after suffering a knee injury in the win over Southampton in their first game of the term. The former Atletico Madrid man revealed the frustration of being sidelined after a good pre-season, and believes his determination for successful return led to goal-scoring displays in his last two outings against Tottenham and Ajax.
“From a personal point of view, it was a pity to get injured so early in the new season," Aguero said. "I had an intense preseason and I felt in terrific shape. Then I had to stop and start back from scratch which was hardly ideal, but I’m in top form right now and feel sharp and hungry.
“Injuries in general can be frustrating because they can halt you in full flow. But in my case, I was so motivated to get back on the field that it overcomes any frustration.”
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has backed the English champions to rediscover the form that saw them lift the Premier League trophy last season.
Roberto Mancini's men have had a good start to the domestic season, sitting two points behind league leaders Manchester United and remaining the only unbeaten side in the table, but with the club having drawn four times already, some have raised questions as to whether City has lost their ability to kill off games.
The Argentina international concedes he can understand the criticism, admitting the Citizens are missing some of their cutting edge, but with a number of stars returning from injury, City will soon be back to their best, according to Aguero.
“It’s true that we don’t have the same flair in the games as we had last season and we’ve scored less goals for sure,” he told the club's official website. “But the Premier League table says something different. We are very hard to beat, we are second in the table and defending well, so we can’t be doing that badly, can we?
“We have been hindered by a string of bad injuries to important players – David (Silva), Pablo (Zabaleta), Javi Garcia, Micah (Richards), Joleon (Lescott), Maicon, (Gareth) Barry, (James) Milner, Samir (Nasri), myself.
"It’s not simple when they all happen simultaneously, and I think I’m correct in saying we had very few injuries last season. If we have been succeeding even in spite of these difficulties, then it makes me believe that the best is still to come and we’ll be able to repeat our form of last year."
The 24-year-old missed around a month of action early in the campaign after suffering a knee injury in the win over Southampton in their first game of the term. The former Atletico Madrid man revealed the frustration of being sidelined after a good pre-season, and believes his determination for successful return led to goal-scoring displays in his last two outings against Tottenham and Ajax.
“From a personal point of view, it was a pity to get injured so early in the new season," Aguero said. "I had an intense preseason and I felt in terrific shape. Then I had to stop and start back from scratch which was hardly ideal, but I’m in top form right now and feel sharp and hungry.
“Injuries in general can be frustrating because they can halt you in full flow. But in my case, I was so motivated to get back on the field that it overcomes any frustration.”
Rooney targets Sir Bobby Charlton's England, Manchester United scoring records
Wayne Rooney has targeted breaking Sir Bobby Charlton’s goal-scoring records for both Manchester United and England.
The 27-year-old is the fourth-highest scorer in United's history with 185 goals and stands 64 short of Charlton’s 249. For the Three Lions Rooney has 32 goals, just 17 away from the World Cup winner’s total of 49.
"Sir Bobby holds both records so that's a great challenge," Rooney told Shortlist magazine. "The guy is a legend and is such a presence around the club. If I could break his record as Manchester United's top goalscorer and maybe even England's. That is such a great incentive."
Rooney also said that he wants to play for as long as possible, highlighting Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes as his inspiration to remain at Old Trafford for as long as a decade.
"I want to play as long as I can and to have shared a dressing room with the likes of Giggsy and Paul Scholes is inspiration to do just that. At least another 10 years would be great."
Rooney has featured in a deeper role for parts of the season after the arrival of Robin van Persie but, despite admitting he could one day line up in midfield, insists he still considers himself an out-and-out striker.
"I can see myself one day moving back into midfield - I can do it - but I'm not ready yet. I'm a center forward, and I score goals," Rooney said. "I feel I have plenty of goals left in me. I'll play in midfield if I have to, and I have done so at United, but goals are still my main aim and the biggest part of my game."
Wayne Rooney has targeted breaking Sir Bobby Charlton’s goal-scoring records for both Manchester United and England.
The 27-year-old is the fourth-highest scorer in United's history with 185 goals and stands 64 short of Charlton’s 249. For the Three Lions Rooney has 32 goals, just 17 away from the World Cup winner’s total of 49.
"Sir Bobby holds both records so that's a great challenge," Rooney told Shortlist magazine. "The guy is a legend and is such a presence around the club. If I could break his record as Manchester United's top goalscorer and maybe even England's. That is such a great incentive."
Rooney also said that he wants to play for as long as possible, highlighting Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes as his inspiration to remain at Old Trafford for as long as a decade.
"I want to play as long as I can and to have shared a dressing room with the likes of Giggsy and Paul Scholes is inspiration to do just that. At least another 10 years would be great."
Rooney has featured in a deeper role for parts of the season after the arrival of Robin van Persie but, despite admitting he could one day line up in midfield, insists he still considers himself an out-and-out striker.
"I can see myself one day moving back into midfield - I can do it - but I'm not ready yet. I'm a center forward, and I score goals," Rooney said. "I feel I have plenty of goals left in me. I'll play in midfield if I have to, and I have done so at United, but goals are still my main aim and the biggest part of my game."
Chelsea captain Terry out for three weeks with knee injury
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has confirmed John Terry will be sidelined for three weeks with a knee injury.
Initial fears were that the center back could have suffered a longer-term injury as his leg got trapped and twisted when colliding with Liverpool's Luis Suarez in the 1-1 draw on Sunday.
The England international looked in severe pain and was stretchered off the Stamford Bridge pitch, however MRI scans after the clash showed no significant damage to the cruciate ligaments.
The Blues' boss has now revealed that the 31-year-old may only be missing for a few weeks, but he insisted that any length of time without their skipper is a big blow.
"With [Terry] we're looking at approximately three weeks out, fortunately it's not as bad as we first thought," Di Matteo told reporters.
"Terry's injury was unfortunate as he looked sharp and gave the team a lot of confidence, but you have to deal with injuries."
The defender will therefore miss Saturday's trip to West Brom, with Three Lions' teammate Frank Lampard also unavailable for the clash with an ongoing calf problem picked up against Shakhtar Donetsk in October.
The Switzerland-born manager admitted that the midfielder is nearing a return, but won't feature, while stating his hope that the 34-year-old ends his career in west London.
"Frank Lampard won't be featuring at West Brom but he's not far off, we want to make sure he's 100 percent and not take risks," he stated. "Frank's been a fantastic player for us and it would be nice for him to finish his career at Chelsea."
The trip to the Hawthorns will see Di Matteo return to the club he managed between 2009 and 2011, getting the sack after a poor run of form over the Christmas period - his last game a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.
The 42-year-old insisted he has no regrets about his time with the Baggies, indicating the experience made his a better manager, while looking back on Chelsea's 1-0 loss at the Hawthorns last season.
"I had a great time at WBA, worked with some great people and the fans were really good to me, I have fond memories," Di Matteo said.
He added, "If you have a long career you will get the sack at some point, it makes you stronger and doesn't mean you are a bad coach.
"We didn't play well there last season, the defeat led to a reaction and it was a very difficult time."
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has confirmed John Terry will be sidelined for three weeks with a knee injury.
Initial fears were that the center back could have suffered a longer-term injury as his leg got trapped and twisted when colliding with Liverpool's Luis Suarez in the 1-1 draw on Sunday.
The England international looked in severe pain and was stretchered off the Stamford Bridge pitch, however MRI scans after the clash showed no significant damage to the cruciate ligaments.
The Blues' boss has now revealed that the 31-year-old may only be missing for a few weeks, but he insisted that any length of time without their skipper is a big blow.
"With [Terry] we're looking at approximately three weeks out, fortunately it's not as bad as we first thought," Di Matteo told reporters.
"Terry's injury was unfortunate as he looked sharp and gave the team a lot of confidence, but you have to deal with injuries."
The defender will therefore miss Saturday's trip to West Brom, with Three Lions' teammate Frank Lampard also unavailable for the clash with an ongoing calf problem picked up against Shakhtar Donetsk in October.
The Switzerland-born manager admitted that the midfielder is nearing a return, but won't feature, while stating his hope that the 34-year-old ends his career in west London.
"Frank Lampard won't be featuring at West Brom but he's not far off, we want to make sure he's 100 percent and not take risks," he stated. "Frank's been a fantastic player for us and it would be nice for him to finish his career at Chelsea."
The trip to the Hawthorns will see Di Matteo return to the club he managed between 2009 and 2011, getting the sack after a poor run of form over the Christmas period - his last game a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.
The 42-year-old insisted he has no regrets about his time with the Baggies, indicating the experience made his a better manager, while looking back on Chelsea's 1-0 loss at the Hawthorns last season.
"I had a great time at WBA, worked with some great people and the fans were really good to me, I have fond memories," Di Matteo said.
He added, "If you have a long career you will get the sack at some point, it makes you stronger and doesn't mean you are a bad coach.
"We didn't play well there last season, the defeat led to a reaction and it was a very difficult time."
Lucas returns to full Liverpool training
Lucas Leiva has handed Liverpool a major boost by returning to full training after spending 12 weeks out of action with a thigh injury.
The Brazilian midfielder hasn't featured for the Reds since limping off during the early stages of the 2-2 draw with Manchester City on August 26 - just his fourth appearance since recovering from a cruciate knee ligament injury sustained last November.
Despite that setback, the 25-year-old is now on the comeback trail, joining his teammates at the club's Melwood training facility on Wednesday and tweeted his delight at being back in the fold.
"Happy to be back and feeling good," he told reporters. "Just get some more training session and I hope I will be available soon."
Reds boss Brendan Rodgers won't be able to call upon Lucas for Saturday's meeting with Wigan at Anfield but he is being penciled in to feature in the Europa League clash with Young Boys next Thursday.“Lucas has worked tirelessly in his rehabilitation, so he comes back out on to the field in a good moment," Rodgers toldreporters.
“He won’t be ready to play for the weekend, but certainly over the next couple of weeks he’ll be very close.”
Lucas Leiva has handed Liverpool a major boost by returning to full training after spending 12 weeks out of action with a thigh injury.
The Brazilian midfielder hasn't featured for the Reds since limping off during the early stages of the 2-2 draw with Manchester City on August 26 - just his fourth appearance since recovering from a cruciate knee ligament injury sustained last November.
Despite that setback, the 25-year-old is now on the comeback trail, joining his teammates at the club's Melwood training facility on Wednesday and tweeted his delight at being back in the fold.
"Happy to be back and feeling good," he told reporters. "Just get some more training session and I hope I will be available soon."
Reds boss Brendan Rodgers won't be able to call upon Lucas for Saturday's meeting with Wigan at Anfield but he is being penciled in to feature in the Europa League clash with Young Boys next Thursday.“Lucas has worked tirelessly in his rehabilitation, so he comes back out on to the field in a good moment," Rodgers toldreporters.
“He won’t be ready to play for the weekend, but certainly over the next couple of weeks he’ll be very close.”
Robben injury blow for Bayern
Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes will have to make do without the services of Arjen Robben in this weekend's Bundesliga match against Nurnberg and Tuesday's Champions League game versus Valencia due to a muscle injury.
The winger picked up the knock in the international friendly between Netherlands and Germany on Wednesday, and will be out of action for the foreseeable future.
"He will not be available for tomorrow's game, and won't feature against Valencia either," Heynckes was quoted as saying on the club's official website.
It is not yet exactly known how long Robben will be sidelined due to the knock, but Bayern are hopeful that he will be back in time for next week's home match versus Hannover.
The Dutchman has made only five Bundesliga appearances so far this term due to his ongoing injury worries.
Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes will have to make do without the services of Arjen Robben in this weekend's Bundesliga match against Nurnberg and Tuesday's Champions League game versus Valencia due to a muscle injury.
The winger picked up the knock in the international friendly between Netherlands and Germany on Wednesday, and will be out of action for the foreseeable future.
"He will not be available for tomorrow's game, and won't feature against Valencia either," Heynckes was quoted as saying on the club's official website.
It is not yet exactly known how long Robben will be sidelined due to the knock, but Bayern are hopeful that he will be back in time for next week's home match versus Hannover.
The Dutchman has made only five Bundesliga appearances so far this term due to his ongoing injury worries.
Barclays Premier League 2012.11.17 Fixtures
Barclays Premier League 2012.11.17 Fixtures
Arsenal Vs Tottenham
Reading Vs Everton
WBA Vs Chelsea
Manchester City Vs Aston Villa
Newcastle United Vs Swansea
QPR Vs Southampton
Liverpool Vs Wigan
Norwich City Vs Manchester United
La Liga 2012.11.17 Fixtures
La Liga 2012.11.17 Fixtures
Osasuna Vs Malaga
Valancia Vs Espanyol
Barcelona Vs Real Zaragoza
Real Madrid Vs Athletic Bilbao
Osasuna Vs Malaga
Valancia Vs Espanyol
Barcelona Vs Real Zaragoza
Real Madrid Vs Athletic Bilbao
Serie A 2012.11.17 Fixtures
Serie A 2012.11.17 Fixtures
Juventus Vs Lazio
Napoli Vs AC Milan
Juventus Vs Lazio
Napoli Vs AC Milan
Norwich City 1-0 Manchester United: Pilkington punishes lackluster visitors
An Anthony Pilkington header was enough for Norwich City to secure a shock 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Carrow Road.
Pilkington, a former Old Trafford youth player, headed the Canaries in front from an excellent Javier Garrido cross.
John Ruddy was forced into a stoppage-time save off the head of Sebastien Bassong and second-half substitute Danny Welbeck went close with a deflected header, but Chris Hughton's side held on for a famous three points.
Sir Alex Ferguson was without Wayne Rooney due to tonsillitis, and David De Gea who required dental work on his wisdom teeth.
But the visitors launched straight into the ascendancy and went close in the third minute through Van Persie, who forced Ruddy into a save with a low, curling effort.
The hosts should have gone ahead after 25 minutes, when Pilkington’s clever disguised pass released Garrido on the left-hand side, but Grant Holt could not connect with the full back’s driven cross-shot.
Norwich impressed in the first half and continued to create chances as Snodgrass wrong-footed Rio Ferdinand after more good work from Hoolahan and only a last-ditch interception from Chris Smalling prevented Holt from shooting.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s side finished the half the stronger as Van Persie tried the spectacular but failed to connect with a long ball from Ryan Giggs, and Ruddy was called into action by Young again, pushing a powerful attempt around the post.
The visitors started brightly after the interval and went close through Van Persie, who brought down a pass from Young and held off a challenge, only to scuff a shot harmlessly into Ruddy’s body.
But Norwich was ahead just before the hour mark, when a superb move involving Hoolahan and Holt released the overlapping Garrido, whose cross from the left wing was brilliantly headed over and beyond Lindegaard by Pilkington, who timed his run perfectly.
Trailing with just over 20 minutes to play, Sir Alex Ferguson made two changes as Paul Scholes came on for Antonio Valencia and Danny Welbeck replaced the anonymous Chicharito.
The substitutions had an immediate effect as Scholes began to control the midfield and Welbeck nearly pulled his side level, but his header from a Young cross deflected off Bassong and wide for a corner.
Norwich responded, bringing on Steve Morison and Johnny Howson for Holt and the influential Hoolahan, while Anderson came on for Rio Ferdinand in a final throw of the dice for the Old Trafford club.
The hosts had the chance to kill the game off on the counterattack as Morison played in Howson, but with just Lindegaard to beat the midfielder dragged his shot hopelessly wide.
Ruddy was twice called into action late on, first tipping over a Bassong header, before managing to hold on to a stinging Anderson drive to ensure the Canaries took all three points.
An Anthony Pilkington header was enough for Norwich City to secure a shock 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Carrow Road.
Pilkington, a former Old Trafford youth player, headed the Canaries in front from an excellent Javier Garrido cross.
John Ruddy was forced into a stoppage-time save off the head of Sebastien Bassong and second-half substitute Danny Welbeck went close with a deflected header, but Chris Hughton's side held on for a famous three points.
Sir Alex Ferguson was without Wayne Rooney due to tonsillitis, and David De Gea who required dental work on his wisdom teeth.
But the visitors launched straight into the ascendancy and went close in the third minute through Van Persie, who forced Ruddy into a save with a low, curling effort.
The hosts should have gone ahead after 25 minutes, when Pilkington’s clever disguised pass released Garrido on the left-hand side, but Grant Holt could not connect with the full back’s driven cross-shot.
Norwich impressed in the first half and continued to create chances as Snodgrass wrong-footed Rio Ferdinand after more good work from Hoolahan and only a last-ditch interception from Chris Smalling prevented Holt from shooting.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s side finished the half the stronger as Van Persie tried the spectacular but failed to connect with a long ball from Ryan Giggs, and Ruddy was called into action by Young again, pushing a powerful attempt around the post.
The visitors started brightly after the interval and went close through Van Persie, who brought down a pass from Young and held off a challenge, only to scuff a shot harmlessly into Ruddy’s body.
But Norwich was ahead just before the hour mark, when a superb move involving Hoolahan and Holt released the overlapping Garrido, whose cross from the left wing was brilliantly headed over and beyond Lindegaard by Pilkington, who timed his run perfectly.
Trailing with just over 20 minutes to play, Sir Alex Ferguson made two changes as Paul Scholes came on for Antonio Valencia and Danny Welbeck replaced the anonymous Chicharito.
The substitutions had an immediate effect as Scholes began to control the midfield and Welbeck nearly pulled his side level, but his header from a Young cross deflected off Bassong and wide for a corner.
Norwich responded, bringing on Steve Morison and Johnny Howson for Holt and the influential Hoolahan, while Anderson came on for Rio Ferdinand in a final throw of the dice for the Old Trafford club.
The hosts had the chance to kill the game off on the counterattack as Morison played in Howson, but with just Lindegaard to beat the midfielder dragged his shot hopelessly wide.
Ruddy was twice called into action late on, first tipping over a Bassong header, before managing to hold on to a stinging Anderson drive to ensure the Canaries took all three points.
- Status
