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
මාත් හිතන්නේ විකුනන එකක් නෑ,අනික Ibra 
Vilanova to undergo surgery
Barcelona have confirmed that coach Tito Vilanova will undergo surgery after Catalan newspaper El Mundo Deportivo reported first that the Spaniard, who successfully underwent an operation to remove a cancerous tumour just over 12 months ago, had suffered a relapse.
The Medical Services team issued a statement on the Barcelona website. It read: "An extension of the pathology has been detected in [Vilanova's] parotid gland. The manager requires surgery which he will undergo this Thursday. He is expected to remain in hospital for three to four days. "Later, Francisco 'Tito' Vilanova will undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatment, which will last about 6 weeks. During this time and according to his evolution, and treatment can reconcile their working life.
"In response to the patient's wishes please respect the privacy and confidentiality of the process. " Barcelona had already cancelled all scheduled activities for the day, including a press conference that was to be given by club president Sandro Rosell.
A statement on the club's official website on Wednesday morning read: "FC Barcelona states that the press conference of president Sandro Rosell, scheduled for midday today, has been cancelled. The Christmas dinner which was to be held with the media has also been cancelled.
"The announcement of the winner of the IX Manuel Vazquez Montalban International Journalism Prize will go ahead today as scheduled. The club will be represented by institutional vice-president Carles Vilarrubi and director Ramon Pont i Ramon Cierco."Later today the club will release a new statement. Until then there will be no further statement on the matter. We regret any discomfort caused by this decision."Barcelona's arch-rivals Real Madrid posted a message of support for Vilanova on their official website later on Wednesday.
"Real Madrid Football Club wishes to express its support and affection for FC Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova," a short statement read. "We wish him the quickest possible recovery. Real Madrid offers its full support to his club and all his family."
Vilanova, who replaced his former boss and friend Pep Guardiola as Barca first-team coach in the summer, has overseen the club's best ever start to the season. Sunday evening's 4-1 win over second-placed Atletico Madrid at the Camp Nou stretched their lead in the Primera Division standings to nine points, with Real Madrid a further four points behind in third.
Unconfirmed reports in Spain suggested that Barcelona had already made contact with a potential replacement to take charge of the club until the end of the season.
Barcelona have confirmed that coach Tito Vilanova will undergo surgery after Catalan newspaper El Mundo Deportivo reported first that the Spaniard, who successfully underwent an operation to remove a cancerous tumour just over 12 months ago, had suffered a relapse.
The Medical Services team issued a statement on the Barcelona website. It read: "An extension of the pathology has been detected in [Vilanova's] parotid gland. The manager requires surgery which he will undergo this Thursday. He is expected to remain in hospital for three to four days. "Later, Francisco 'Tito' Vilanova will undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatment, which will last about 6 weeks. During this time and according to his evolution, and treatment can reconcile their working life.
"In response to the patient's wishes please respect the privacy and confidentiality of the process. " Barcelona had already cancelled all scheduled activities for the day, including a press conference that was to be given by club president Sandro Rosell.
A statement on the club's official website on Wednesday morning read: "FC Barcelona states that the press conference of president Sandro Rosell, scheduled for midday today, has been cancelled. The Christmas dinner which was to be held with the media has also been cancelled.
"The announcement of the winner of the IX Manuel Vazquez Montalban International Journalism Prize will go ahead today as scheduled. The club will be represented by institutional vice-president Carles Vilarrubi and director Ramon Pont i Ramon Cierco."Later today the club will release a new statement. Until then there will be no further statement on the matter. We regret any discomfort caused by this decision."Barcelona's arch-rivals Real Madrid posted a message of support for Vilanova on their official website later on Wednesday.
"Real Madrid Football Club wishes to express its support and affection for FC Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova," a short statement read. "We wish him the quickest possible recovery. Real Madrid offers its full support to his club and all his family."
Vilanova, who replaced his former boss and friend Pep Guardiola as Barca first-team coach in the summer, has overseen the club's best ever start to the season. Sunday evening's 4-1 win over second-placed Atletico Madrid at the Camp Nou stretched their lead in the Primera Division standings to nine points, with Real Madrid a further four points behind in third.
Unconfirmed reports in Spain suggested that Barcelona had already made contact with a potential replacement to take charge of the club until the end of the season.
Get well Soon Vilanova
Tito Vilanova suffers tumor relapse: Barcelona boss steps down as club searches for temporary replacement
Barcelona coach had a tumour removed last year, but has suffered a relapse and has stepped down, according to reports in Spain
According to reports from Spain, Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has stepped down from his post after suffering a tumor relapse.
The coach had a tumor removed from his parotid gland in November last year while working as the Catalan club's assistant coach.
The operation was a success, and Vilanova returned to work with Barca, eventually taking over from Pep Guardiola when he stepped down in April.
Spanish television station Cuatro reported that Vilanova had suffered a relapse and had decided to step down with immediate effect.
Barcelona have already contacted their first-choice candidate to replace him on a temporary basis for the remainder of the season and are awaiting a decision.
"Very sorry to hear the news," Barca midfielder Xavi said on his official Twitter account.
Barca released a press statement this morning announcing they had suspended all activities for today but did not go into details and did not mention Vilanova.
The club confirmed a further announcement would be made later today.
The statement read: "Barcelona announce that it is has suspended the press conference from president Sandro Rosell planned for midday. As well as that, the media Christmas lunch has been cancelled.
"Later today the club will issue a further release. Until that time we will not make any announcement about this matter.
"We regret any inconvenience this decision may cause."
Leeds United 1-5 Chelsea: Torres wraps up win for five-star Blues
Chelsea turned on the style to see off Leeds and advance to the Capital One Cup semifinals after an entertaining encounter in the rain at Elland Road.
Luciano Becchio's first-half strike briefly threatened an upset for the hosts but goals after the break from Juan Mata, Branislav Ivanovic, Victor Moses, Eden Hazard, and Fernando Torres wrapped up a convincing win for the Blues.
Victory gives Rafa Benitez's chances of bringing silverware back to Stamford Bridge a timely boost, having already presided over exits from the Champions League and Club World Cup.
Much was expected of the first meeting between these two historic rivals in over eight years but events on the pitch only served to show the gulf which has emerged between them.
Benitez shuffled his pack after Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Corinthians, handing Marko Marin and Ryan Bertrand rare starts and recalling Oscar. Neil Warnock, meanwhile, made three changes to the side which defeated Ipswich Town 2-0 on Saturday, with Jamie Ashdown, Jason Pearce and Michael Brown replacing Paddy Kenny, Alan Tate and David Norris.
Leeds attacked with conviction from the start but it was Chelsea who conjured the first chance on six minutes – Oscar playing in Moses, whose fierce low drive was beaten away by Ashdown.
The visitors appeared to be taking control and Moses stung the palms of Ashdown again before Mata's goalbound effort was deflected behind by Pearce.
Benitez's men were dominating possession but a mistake from David Luiz saw them go behind on 37 minutes. The advancing Brazilian's dinked pass was intercepted by Sam Byram and the flowing counterattack which followed ended with Becchio sweeping home his 16th goal of the season.
Chelsea came roaring back and Moses had the ball in the net on 42 minutes after a flowing move, only for the assistant referee to rule that Torres had strayed offside in the build-up.
Ashdown twice parried away dipping Lampard drives from distance and Leeds went into the break with their noses in front.
Chelsea leveled the scores a minute after the restart, however, as Mata capped a neat passing interchange with a low curling effort which crept under the palm of Ashdown and trickled in.
On 64 minutes Chelsea went ahead as Ivanovic powered home a header at the near post from an inviting Lampard delivery.
Chelsea weas playing with swagger now and almost immediately Moses cut inside from the left and rifled a shot past Ashdown.
With the game already over as a contest, Luiz played a raking pass through for substitute Hazard, who calmly slotted home a fourth.
The Leeds defense was now virtually non-existent and, after Ashdown parried another Lampard shot, Hazard squared the ball for Torres to tap into an empty net.
Having suitably humbled its host, Chelsea then eased to victory, joining Swansea City, Aston Villa and Bradford City in the semifinals.
Chelsea turned on the style to see off Leeds and advance to the Capital One Cup semifinals after an entertaining encounter in the rain at Elland Road.
Luciano Becchio's first-half strike briefly threatened an upset for the hosts but goals after the break from Juan Mata, Branislav Ivanovic, Victor Moses, Eden Hazard, and Fernando Torres wrapped up a convincing win for the Blues.
Victory gives Rafa Benitez's chances of bringing silverware back to Stamford Bridge a timely boost, having already presided over exits from the Champions League and Club World Cup.
Much was expected of the first meeting between these two historic rivals in over eight years but events on the pitch only served to show the gulf which has emerged between them.
Benitez shuffled his pack after Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Corinthians, handing Marko Marin and Ryan Bertrand rare starts and recalling Oscar. Neil Warnock, meanwhile, made three changes to the side which defeated Ipswich Town 2-0 on Saturday, with Jamie Ashdown, Jason Pearce and Michael Brown replacing Paddy Kenny, Alan Tate and David Norris.
Leeds attacked with conviction from the start but it was Chelsea who conjured the first chance on six minutes – Oscar playing in Moses, whose fierce low drive was beaten away by Ashdown.
The visitors appeared to be taking control and Moses stung the palms of Ashdown again before Mata's goalbound effort was deflected behind by Pearce.
Benitez's men were dominating possession but a mistake from David Luiz saw them go behind on 37 minutes. The advancing Brazilian's dinked pass was intercepted by Sam Byram and the flowing counterattack which followed ended with Becchio sweeping home his 16th goal of the season.
Chelsea came roaring back and Moses had the ball in the net on 42 minutes after a flowing move, only for the assistant referee to rule that Torres had strayed offside in the build-up.
Ashdown twice parried away dipping Lampard drives from distance and Leeds went into the break with their noses in front.
Chelsea leveled the scores a minute after the restart, however, as Mata capped a neat passing interchange with a low curling effort which crept under the palm of Ashdown and trickled in.
On 64 minutes Chelsea went ahead as Ivanovic powered home a header at the near post from an inviting Lampard delivery.
Chelsea weas playing with swagger now and almost immediately Moses cut inside from the left and rifled a shot past Ashdown.
With the game already over as a contest, Luiz played a raking pass through for substitute Hazard, who calmly slotted home a fourth.
The Leeds defense was now virtually non-existent and, after Ashdown parried another Lampard shot, Hazard squared the ball for Torres to tap into an empty net.
Having suitably humbled its host, Chelsea then eased to victory, joining Swansea City, Aston Villa and Bradford City in the semifinals.
Borussia Dortmund 5-1 Hannover: Gotze hits hat trick as champion cruises into quarters
Borussia Dortmund breezed past the challenge of Hannover and into the DFB Pokal quarterfinals with an emphatic 5-1 win at Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday evening.
The reigning champion stormed to a 3-0 lead by halftime thanks to Mario Gotze goals either side of a fortunate Kuba Blaszczykowski strike. Mame Diouf scored a late header for Hannover before Gotze then completed his hat trick with a driven effort and Robert Lewandowski added a fifth in injury time.
With a 12-point gap between themselves and first-placed Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, Jurgen Klopp and his team gave a firm indication of their intention to retain the DFB Pokal title with a resounding victory over Die Roten.
The home side made a blistering start to the match and barely two minutes had passed when Gotze tapped in from close range to make it 1-0. The attacking midfielder was in the right place at the right time to smash the ball over the line after Kevin Grosskreutz had sent an inviting header across the face of the Hannover goal.
Hannover has conceded the second-highest number of goals in Bundesliga this season and its first half performance displayed clear symptoms of why that is the case, with Dortmund cutting through its defense at will in search of more goals.
Klopp's team did not have to wait long before it doubled its lead, with Blaszczykowski making it 2-0 after being set up by a stunning through-ball from Reus. There was an element of luck to the Poland international's finish, as Zieler's save from his initial shot rebounded onto the attacker and flew past the stranded goalkeeper.
Dortmund was in complete control as the game approached halftime, with each of its outfield players showing such a hunger and desire to win possession that on the few occasions that Hannover did have the ball, it did not have it for long.
Lewandowski and Blaszczykowski had further shots on goal before an off-the-ball foul from Hannover's captain Steven Cherundolo on Reus gifted Dortmund a free kick in the 38th minute. Gotze grabbed his second of the evening to make it 3-0 from the set piece, opportunistically drilling a low free kick under Hannover's jumping wall and into the bottom left corner.
After the interval the home side showed few signs of easing off despite the game seemingly won, as Blaszczykowski skewed a drive wide, Lewandowski forced a marvellous stop from Zieler and Neven Subotic headed just off target - all before the hour mark.
A fine goal from Mame Diouf made it 3-1 late on to set up a nervy finale, the former Manchester United forward heading Szabolcs Huszti's enticing cross firmly past Roman Weidenfeller and into the net.
There was still time for Dortmund to add a fourth and fifth however, Gotze completing his hat trick with a well-struck volley, before Lewandowski completed the rout with a close-range finish after hitting the post, as Dortmund ran out easy winners in its final fixture before the winter break.
Borussia Dortmund breezed past the challenge of Hannover and into the DFB Pokal quarterfinals with an emphatic 5-1 win at Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday evening.
The reigning champion stormed to a 3-0 lead by halftime thanks to Mario Gotze goals either side of a fortunate Kuba Blaszczykowski strike. Mame Diouf scored a late header for Hannover before Gotze then completed his hat trick with a driven effort and Robert Lewandowski added a fifth in injury time.
With a 12-point gap between themselves and first-placed Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, Jurgen Klopp and his team gave a firm indication of their intention to retain the DFB Pokal title with a resounding victory over Die Roten.
The home side made a blistering start to the match and barely two minutes had passed when Gotze tapped in from close range to make it 1-0. The attacking midfielder was in the right place at the right time to smash the ball over the line after Kevin Grosskreutz had sent an inviting header across the face of the Hannover goal.
Hannover has conceded the second-highest number of goals in Bundesliga this season and its first half performance displayed clear symptoms of why that is the case, with Dortmund cutting through its defense at will in search of more goals.
Klopp's team did not have to wait long before it doubled its lead, with Blaszczykowski making it 2-0 after being set up by a stunning through-ball from Reus. There was an element of luck to the Poland international's finish, as Zieler's save from his initial shot rebounded onto the attacker and flew past the stranded goalkeeper.
Dortmund was in complete control as the game approached halftime, with each of its outfield players showing such a hunger and desire to win possession that on the few occasions that Hannover did have the ball, it did not have it for long.
Lewandowski and Blaszczykowski had further shots on goal before an off-the-ball foul from Hannover's captain Steven Cherundolo on Reus gifted Dortmund a free kick in the 38th minute. Gotze grabbed his second of the evening to make it 3-0 from the set piece, opportunistically drilling a low free kick under Hannover's jumping wall and into the bottom left corner.
After the interval the home side showed few signs of easing off despite the game seemingly won, as Blaszczykowski skewed a drive wide, Lewandowski forced a marvellous stop from Zieler and Neven Subotic headed just off target - all before the hour mark.
A fine goal from Mame Diouf made it 3-1 late on to set up a nervy finale, the former Manchester United forward heading Szabolcs Huszti's enticing cross firmly past Roman Weidenfeller and into the net.
There was still time for Dortmund to add a fourth and fifth however, Gotze completing his hat trick with a well-struck volley, before Lewandowski completed the rout with a close-range finish after hitting the post, as Dortmund ran out easy winners in its final fixture before the winter break.
Quaresma leaves Besiktas after contract terminated
Besiktas has terminated the contract of Ricardo Quaresma after a meeting with the player on Wednesday.The termination was amicable and was mutually accepted by both parties, making the 29-year-old available for a free transfer.
It is understood the Turkish side has paid the winger for the remaining four months on his current deal that was due to expire in the spring.
Quaresma had struggled to adjust to life at Besiktas and was reportedly willing to sue the club in October, and told the media that the club did not want him.
He was brought to the side by Bernd Schuster from Inter in 2010.
Besiktas has terminated the contract of Ricardo Quaresma after a meeting with the player on Wednesday.The termination was amicable and was mutually accepted by both parties, making the 29-year-old available for a free transfer.
It is understood the Turkish side has paid the winger for the remaining four months on his current deal that was due to expire in the spring.
Quaresma had struggled to adjust to life at Besiktas and was reportedly willing to sue the club in October, and told the media that the club did not want him.
He was brought to the side by Bernd Schuster from Inter in 2010.
Galliani: AC Milan has received Pato offer
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has confirmed the club has received an offer for Alexandre Pato.
The Brazil forward’s future has been subject of much speculation recently and Galliani admits there has been interest from an unnamed club, thought to be Corinthians.“An offer has arrived for Pato,” Galliani told Milan Channel. “Basically, in defense and midfield we will not be signing anyone. If Pato and Robinho remain, or if only one leaves, then we won’t bring in any replacements.
“We believe the right number of strikers to have is five, because if two new ones arrive, then there won’t be space for M’Baye Niang.”The Rossoneri chief added that he is trying his best to keep Robinho at the club, and revealed it is the player's wife and children who want to leave Milan and not the Brazilian himself.
“We’re doing everything to keep hold of Robinho, although I am not certain that we’ll succeed," he continued. “Robinho is happy to stay here and has a wonderful rapport with the coach and team, but his wife and children want the beaches of Santos.“I hope to convince him to stay here, though he is asking to leave Milan and go back to his homeland.”
Milan is currently seventh in Serie A after taking 27 points from 17 games.
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has confirmed the club has received an offer for Alexandre Pato.
The Brazil forward’s future has been subject of much speculation recently and Galliani admits there has been interest from an unnamed club, thought to be Corinthians.“An offer has arrived for Pato,” Galliani told Milan Channel. “Basically, in defense and midfield we will not be signing anyone. If Pato and Robinho remain, or if only one leaves, then we won’t bring in any replacements.
“We believe the right number of strikers to have is five, because if two new ones arrive, then there won’t be space for M’Baye Niang.”The Rossoneri chief added that he is trying his best to keep Robinho at the club, and revealed it is the player's wife and children who want to leave Milan and not the Brazilian himself.
“We’re doing everything to keep hold of Robinho, although I am not certain that we’ll succeed," he continued. “Robinho is happy to stay here and has a wonderful rapport with the coach and team, but his wife and children want the beaches of Santos.“I hope to convince him to stay here, though he is asking to leave Milan and go back to his homeland.”
Milan is currently seventh in Serie A after taking 27 points from 17 games.
Ronaldo: Ballon d’Or not everything
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has said that he will not be disheartened if he is not awarded the Ballon d’Or.The prize for the world’s best player will be announced in January, with Ronaldo and Barcelona’s Lionel Messi the strong favorites for the title.
However, Ronaldo has stressed that although he would like to win the award, it is team trophies that he views as more important than individual accolades.“Obviously I would like to win, I will not be a hypocrite and a liar, it is something that I aspire to, but I cannot think, if I fail, it is the end,” he told the Portuguese Football Federation's official website.
“I can live without an individual award, even if it would be unfair. The career of a footballer is not marked by individual trophies, but by the collective.”The Portugal international also admitted that he feels more emotionally involved when playing for his country, as opposed to lining up alongside his Madrid teammates.
“It is one thing playing for your club and another with the national team, they are totally different feelings," he added. "It is true that the passion to win and compete is similar, but there is more emotional involvement when we do it for our country.”
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has said that he will not be disheartened if he is not awarded the Ballon d’Or.The prize for the world’s best player will be announced in January, with Ronaldo and Barcelona’s Lionel Messi the strong favorites for the title.
However, Ronaldo has stressed that although he would like to win the award, it is team trophies that he views as more important than individual accolades.“Obviously I would like to win, I will not be a hypocrite and a liar, it is something that I aspire to, but I cannot think, if I fail, it is the end,” he told the Portuguese Football Federation's official website.
“I can live without an individual award, even if it would be unfair. The career of a footballer is not marked by individual trophies, but by the collective.”The Portugal international also admitted that he feels more emotionally involved when playing for his country, as opposed to lining up alongside his Madrid teammates.
“It is one thing playing for your club and another with the national team, they are totally different feelings," he added. "It is true that the passion to win and compete is similar, but there is more emotional involvement when we do it for our country.”
Nene confirms he will leave Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain’s Nene has confirmed that he will leave the club at the end of the season.
The Brazilian winger is out of contract in June and revealed his intention to leave the Ligue 1 side on his official website.
"I love Paris, PSG and its fans, who have always treated me with great respect,” said Nene. “Personally and through social networks, I received many messages from fans asking me to stay. It is a difficult decision, but I think it's time to take a new direction in my career.”
The 31-year-old has found himself on the fringes of Carlo Ancelotti’s side this season and has only made nine appearances for the Ligue 1 leaders.
PSG went top of the league on Sunday when it beat second-placed Olympique Lyonnais 1-0 at Parc des Princes.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Nene has confirmed that he will leave the club at the end of the season.
The Brazilian winger is out of contract in June and revealed his intention to leave the Ligue 1 side on his official website.
"I love Paris, PSG and its fans, who have always treated me with great respect,” said Nene. “Personally and through social networks, I received many messages from fans asking me to stay. It is a difficult decision, but I think it's time to take a new direction in my career.”
The 31-year-old has found himself on the fringes of Carlo Ancelotti’s side this season and has only made nine appearances for the Ligue 1 leaders.
PSG went top of the league on Sunday when it beat second-placed Olympique Lyonnais 1-0 at Parc des Princes.
Real Madrid offers Vilanova support
Real Madrid has released a statement giving their full support to Tito Vilanova in the aftermath of reports he has developed a cancerous tumor.
The 44-year-old had an operation on a salivary gland last November, but it is believed the problem has now returned and the Spanish title holding club has offered its backing to the coach of its fiercest rival.
“Real Madrid want to express their support, love and affection to Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova and hope that he makes quickest recovery,” read the statement on the club’s official website.
“The Real Madrid C. F. extends this support to your club and your family.”
Barca has yet to officially validate the reports, but the Catalan club has closed Wednesday’s training session to the media.
The Blaugrana top La Liga after taking 46 points from a possible 48 - the best start made by any Spanish side in Primera Division history.
Real Madrid has released a statement giving their full support to Tito Vilanova in the aftermath of reports he has developed a cancerous tumor.
The 44-year-old had an operation on a salivary gland last November, but it is believed the problem has now returned and the Spanish title holding club has offered its backing to the coach of its fiercest rival.
“Real Madrid want to express their support, love and affection to Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova and hope that he makes quickest recovery,” read the statement on the club’s official website.
“The Real Madrid C. F. extends this support to your club and your family.”
Barca has yet to officially validate the reports, but the Catalan club has closed Wednesday’s training session to the media.
The Blaugrana top La Liga after taking 46 points from a possible 48 - the best start made by any Spanish side in Primera Division history.
Celtic star Wanyama relishing the prospect of facing Manchester United in Champions League
Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama is relishing the prospect of his side squaring up against Manchester United in the next round of the Champions League.
The Scottish side sealed a spot in the round of 16 of the prestigious European competition at the expense of Benfica and Spartak Moscow from Group G, and will face a team that finished first in any of the other seven groups.
Neil Lennon's possible opponents include PSG, Schalke, Malaga, Borrussia Dortmund, Juventus, Bayern Munich or Manchester United. The round of 16 draw is set to be conducted at the Swiss city of Nyon on Thursday.
"I don't believe it will be proper talking about which team to avoid or face at this stage of the competition. We need to be prepared for any eventuality, and bring up impressive performances like the [2-1 win over Barcelona]," Wanyama told Goal.com.
He added, "Facing Manchester United will be a special feeling. I have watched them for some time and heard several good things about the team and I am also told there is a special rivalry. They are certainly amongst favorites to win the Champions League and it will be amazing to face them."
Wanyama has continuously been linked with a move to Old Trafford ahead of the January transfer window amid reports that Sir Alex Ferguson has had the defensive midfielder watched on several occasions in the last few months.
Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama is relishing the prospect of his side squaring up against Manchester United in the next round of the Champions League.
The Scottish side sealed a spot in the round of 16 of the prestigious European competition at the expense of Benfica and Spartak Moscow from Group G, and will face a team that finished first in any of the other seven groups.
Neil Lennon's possible opponents include PSG, Schalke, Malaga, Borrussia Dortmund, Juventus, Bayern Munich or Manchester United. The round of 16 draw is set to be conducted at the Swiss city of Nyon on Thursday.
"I don't believe it will be proper talking about which team to avoid or face at this stage of the competition. We need to be prepared for any eventuality, and bring up impressive performances like the [2-1 win over Barcelona]," Wanyama told Goal.com.
He added, "Facing Manchester United will be a special feeling. I have watched them for some time and heard several good things about the team and I am also told there is a special rivalry. They are certainly amongst favorites to win the Champions League and it will be amazing to face them."
Wanyama has continuously been linked with a move to Old Trafford ahead of the January transfer window amid reports that Sir Alex Ferguson has had the defensive midfielder watched on several occasions in the last few months.
Lampard targeting Capital One Cup triumph after Leeds hammering
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has set his sights firmly on winning the Capital One Cup after Wednesday’s 5-1 win over Leeds secured the Blues a place in the semifinals.
Neil Warnock’s side took a first half lead through Luciano Becchio and kept the visitors at bay thanks to several good saves from goalkeeper Jamie Ashdown, but Chelsea soon took over in the second half, scoring all five after the break.The win sees Chelsea’s place in the last four confirmed and Lampard is targeting not only a semifinal triumph, but also aiming for victory in the final too.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, he said: “Every trophy is a big deal. When we look back we have enjoyed all our trips to Wembley when we’ve won, so [we hope for] the same again.“We’ve got a big semifinal, whoever we play to get through, but we’re in there, so we’ve got to keep going.”
Lampard also commented on what changed between the first and second halves, highlighting Chelsea’s increased tempo after half-time as the main difference.
He continued: “We upped it [the tempo] after [halftime]. First half we weren’t at our best, we were a bit slow.
“We gave away a silly ball which allowed them to score, but once we upped it and played up pace in our game you could see a big difference. We had a word with ourselves at halftime. It wasn’t the greatest preparation [only arriving back in London on Monday], but that’s no excuse, we had to up [the tempo].“The early goal gave us the impetus to go on. I think we believed from then and we didn’t feel we could lose the game. Some of the football we played we opened them up and showed what we can do.”
Juan Mata also spoke after the match, echoing Lampard’s sentiments regarding the team's less-than-perfect preparation before praising the atmosphere created by Leeds fans.
“Well, I think it is always tough to play here against a team like Leeds,” the Spaniard said. “Coming back to London on Monday and then playing Wednesday, maybe that isn’t enough time to rest, but I think in the second half we showed the desire to win this trophy.
“To be honest, it was so difficult. It is a difficult stadium to play in if you are the away team. They have a very physical team as well, so in the first 30 or 40 minutes it was very difficult for us.”
Chelsea will face Swansea in the semifinals of the Capital One Cup, with the two legs to be played in January.
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has set his sights firmly on winning the Capital One Cup after Wednesday’s 5-1 win over Leeds secured the Blues a place in the semifinals.
Neil Warnock’s side took a first half lead through Luciano Becchio and kept the visitors at bay thanks to several good saves from goalkeeper Jamie Ashdown, but Chelsea soon took over in the second half, scoring all five after the break.The win sees Chelsea’s place in the last four confirmed and Lampard is targeting not only a semifinal triumph, but also aiming for victory in the final too.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, he said: “Every trophy is a big deal. When we look back we have enjoyed all our trips to Wembley when we’ve won, so [we hope for] the same again.“We’ve got a big semifinal, whoever we play to get through, but we’re in there, so we’ve got to keep going.”
Lampard also commented on what changed between the first and second halves, highlighting Chelsea’s increased tempo after half-time as the main difference.
He continued: “We upped it [the tempo] after [halftime]. First half we weren’t at our best, we were a bit slow.
“We gave away a silly ball which allowed them to score, but once we upped it and played up pace in our game you could see a big difference. We had a word with ourselves at halftime. It wasn’t the greatest preparation [only arriving back in London on Monday], but that’s no excuse, we had to up [the tempo].“The early goal gave us the impetus to go on. I think we believed from then and we didn’t feel we could lose the game. Some of the football we played we opened them up and showed what we can do.”
Juan Mata also spoke after the match, echoing Lampard’s sentiments regarding the team's less-than-perfect preparation before praising the atmosphere created by Leeds fans.
“Well, I think it is always tough to play here against a team like Leeds,” the Spaniard said. “Coming back to London on Monday and then playing Wednesday, maybe that isn’t enough time to rest, but I think in the second half we showed the desire to win this trophy.
“To be honest, it was so difficult. It is a difficult stadium to play in if you are the away team. They have a very physical team as well, so in the first 30 or 40 minutes it was very difficult for us.”
Chelsea will face Swansea in the semifinals of the Capital One Cup, with the two legs to be played in January.
Chelsea interim manager Benitez praises Oscar's attitude following Club World Cup snub
Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez has praised Oscar's professionalism after the player was left out of the starting XI in the 1-0 Club World Cup Final loss to Corinthians.
The Brazilian has enjoyed a positive start to his career at Stamford Bridge but was disheartened by the snub that left him on the bench for the game but the former Liverpool and Inter Milan man believes there is no rift between himself and the player.
"Oscar is fine. He's a very good professional. We don't have any issue with him," Benitez told reporters.
He added, "I try to manage players, especially in his position because we have Eden Hazard and Juan Mata, who can do more or less the same job.
"It's difficult for them but it's good for me because I have different problems. There's are no issues or problems."
The 21-year-old has only started three of the seven games that Benitez has taken charge of the club following since the sudden dismissal of Roberto Di Matteo last month.
"Oscar will have a lot of time on the pitch and I'm sure he'll be a great player for the club,” he explained.
"Oscar's not happy because he's not playing and that's fantastic. There would be a problem if it was the opposite."
Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez has praised Oscar's professionalism after the player was left out of the starting XI in the 1-0 Club World Cup Final loss to Corinthians.
The Brazilian has enjoyed a positive start to his career at Stamford Bridge but was disheartened by the snub that left him on the bench for the game but the former Liverpool and Inter Milan man believes there is no rift between himself and the player.
"Oscar is fine. He's a very good professional. We don't have any issue with him," Benitez told reporters.
He added, "I try to manage players, especially in his position because we have Eden Hazard and Juan Mata, who can do more or less the same job.
"It's difficult for them but it's good for me because I have different problems. There's are no issues or problems."
The 21-year-old has only started three of the seven games that Benitez has taken charge of the club following since the sudden dismissal of Roberto Di Matteo last month.
"Oscar will have a lot of time on the pitch and I'm sure he'll be a great player for the club,” he explained.
"Oscar's not happy because he's not playing and that's fantastic. There would be a problem if it was the opposite."
Muller signs Bayern Munich extension until 2017
Bayern Munich has announced on its official website that Thomas Muller has signed a contract extension until the summer of 2017.
The versatile attacker's previous deal with the Allianz Arena side was due to expire in June 2015, but on Wednesday the club revealed Muller had agreed new terms.
The 23-year-old is a product of the Bayern youth academy and has developed into a key player at the Bavarians since making his official first team debut in August 2008.
"Thomas Muller was educated here and has become a very important player for Bayern," club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told the official club website.
"We are very pleased that we have been able to extend his ongoing contract with Bayern with two more seasons. That shows how close Muller is to the club."
Muller has been in sublime form for FCB this term, scoring 13 goals in 25 official appearances, while setting up 10 more.
Bayern Munich has announced on its official website that Thomas Muller has signed a contract extension until the summer of 2017.
The versatile attacker's previous deal with the Allianz Arena side was due to expire in June 2015, but on Wednesday the club revealed Muller had agreed new terms.
The 23-year-old is a product of the Bayern youth academy and has developed into a key player at the Bavarians since making his official first team debut in August 2008.
"Thomas Muller was educated here and has become a very important player for Bayern," club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told the official club website.
"We are very pleased that we have been able to extend his ongoing contract with Bayern with two more seasons. That shows how close Muller is to the club."
Muller has been in sublime form for FCB this term, scoring 13 goals in 25 official appearances, while setting up 10 more.
Congratulations Spain!!!
Spain finishes FIFA Ranking at the summit for fifth year in succession
Reigning European and world champion Spain has finished 2012 at the summit of the FIFA Ranking for the fifth time in succession.
Joachim Low's Germany remains the second-placed team in the standings, with South American giant Argentina completing the podium.
Euro 2012 finalist Italy has climbed one place and now sits fourth in the ranking, ahead of Colombia which was named "Mover of the Year" after reaching fifth position from 36th at the start of the year.
England is sixth, while Portugal (seventh, three down), Netherlands (eighth, one down),Russia (ninth) and Croatia (10th) complete the rest of the top 10.
Copa America holder Uruguay has to settle for 16th place after dropping five places, while 2014 World Cup host Brazil is only 18th.
Cote d'Ivoire remains Africa's highest placed team at No.14, while Japan is the pride of Asia in 22nd position.
Cuba is this month's biggest climber as the team went 41 places up to make it to 100th spot, while Belize (down 23) dropped the most positions compared to last month's FIFA Ranking.
Spain finishes FIFA Ranking at the summit for fifth year in succession
Reigning European and world champion Spain has finished 2012 at the summit of the FIFA Ranking for the fifth time in succession.
Joachim Low's Germany remains the second-placed team in the standings, with South American giant Argentina completing the podium.
Euro 2012 finalist Italy has climbed one place and now sits fourth in the ranking, ahead of Colombia which was named "Mover of the Year" after reaching fifth position from 36th at the start of the year.
England is sixth, while Portugal (seventh, three down), Netherlands (eighth, one down),Russia (ninth) and Croatia (10th) complete the rest of the top 10.
Copa America holder Uruguay has to settle for 16th place after dropping five places, while 2014 World Cup host Brazil is only 18th.
Cote d'Ivoire remains Africa's highest placed team at No.14, while Japan is the pride of Asia in 22nd position.
Cuba is this month's biggest climber as the team went 41 places up to make it to 100th spot, while Belize (down 23) dropped the most positions compared to last month's FIFA Ranking.
Yesterday i saw many facebook status msgs that saying Falcao has decided to join chelsea this january
- Status
