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Berbatov misses out as Milanov named Bulgarian Player of the Year
PFC Litex Lovech's Georgi Milanov has been named Bulgaria's Player of the Year by members of the country's press, ahead of established stars including Fulham's Dimitar Berbatov.
Milanov, 20, represents the youngest person to ever receive the plaudit, and is the first Bulgaria-based player to receive the award since 2001.
The midfielder has registered an impressive eight goals in 14 appearances and has been instrumental in helping his team climb to third place in the table, only nine points off the top spot.
Speaking after the ceremony, he said: "It is a great honor for me to win this accolade. I would like to thank my club, Litex, my team-mates and especially my coach, the great Hristo Stoichkov, who has always kept faith in me."
In addition to the decoration of Milanov, the event saw the recognition of 16-year-old Antonio Vutov who received the 'Revelation of the Year award,' thanks to promising showings from the wing for club Levski Sofia and the Bulgarian Under-17 side.
Stiliyan Petrov, Aston Villa's 33-year-old midfielder and winner of the Bulgarian player of the year award in 2003, was also recognized for his contribution to the prestige of Bulgarian athletes at home and abroad.
PFC Litex Lovech's Georgi Milanov has been named Bulgaria's Player of the Year by members of the country's press, ahead of established stars including Fulham's Dimitar Berbatov.
Milanov, 20, represents the youngest person to ever receive the plaudit, and is the first Bulgaria-based player to receive the award since 2001.
The midfielder has registered an impressive eight goals in 14 appearances and has been instrumental in helping his team climb to third place in the table, only nine points off the top spot.
Speaking after the ceremony, he said: "It is a great honor for me to win this accolade. I would like to thank my club, Litex, my team-mates and especially my coach, the great Hristo Stoichkov, who has always kept faith in me."
In addition to the decoration of Milanov, the event saw the recognition of 16-year-old Antonio Vutov who received the 'Revelation of the Year award,' thanks to promising showings from the wing for club Levski Sofia and the Bulgarian Under-17 side.
Stiliyan Petrov, Aston Villa's 33-year-old midfielder and winner of the Bulgarian player of the year award in 2003, was also recognized for his contribution to the prestige of Bulgarian athletes at home and abroad.
Ronaldinho wants to play at next World Cup
Ronaldinho has reiterated that he wants to be in the Brazil squad at the next World Cup.
The former Barcelona attacker hopes he can take part in the tournament in 18 months' time, which will be staged in his home country, and believes a return to the national set-up is not impossible.
"There is no feeling greater than playing at a home World Cup in front of one’s own fans and I do not want to lose that opportunity," Ronaldinho told reporters in India. "I'm confident and I still have a great passion for football and for Brazil, which leads me to try to return to the team I most love.
"I want to be part of the World Cup. It would be the greatest moment of my life and the lives of many in Brazil. I want to regain my old form and I know that I can contribute to the team. It is my priority to make sure I'm ready if and when the chance to play appears."The Selecao hot seat was taken by former head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari in November, who guided the country to World Cup success in 2002 when Ronaldinho was one of the stars of the tournament.
The 32-year-old, who currently plays for Atletico Mineiro in Brazil, added: "The World Cup will be a great platform for players as talented as Neymar and Leandro Damiao to present themselves to the world as I did in 2002, and I will offer all my experience to help them."
Ronaldinho has reiterated that he wants to be in the Brazil squad at the next World Cup.
The former Barcelona attacker hopes he can take part in the tournament in 18 months' time, which will be staged in his home country, and believes a return to the national set-up is not impossible.
"There is no feeling greater than playing at a home World Cup in front of one’s own fans and I do not want to lose that opportunity," Ronaldinho told reporters in India. "I'm confident and I still have a great passion for football and for Brazil, which leads me to try to return to the team I most love.
"I want to be part of the World Cup. It would be the greatest moment of my life and the lives of many in Brazil. I want to regain my old form and I know that I can contribute to the team. It is my priority to make sure I'm ready if and when the chance to play appears."The Selecao hot seat was taken by former head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari in November, who guided the country to World Cup success in 2002 when Ronaldinho was one of the stars of the tournament.
The 32-year-old, who currently plays for Atletico Mineiro in Brazil, added: "The World Cup will be a great platform for players as talented as Neymar and Leandro Damiao to present themselves to the world as I did in 2002, and I will offer all my experience to help them."
Walcott: Talks are ongoing, something will be sorted soon
Arsenal striker Theo Walcott has stated that "something will be sorted soon" on his future at the north London club, with his contract set to expire in the summer.
The 23-year-old scored his second hat-trick of the season in the Gunners' exhilarating 7-3 victory over Newcastle. Walcott has admitted talks are ongoing, although the England international will be permitted to speak to other clubs when the transfer window opens on January 1.
"I will continue to play my football," he told BBC Sport. "Talks are ongoing and I'm sure something will be sorted soon."
New York Red Bulls and former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has been training with the Gunners recently and Walcott admits he has learned from the Frenchman. Henry is expected to rejoin Arsenal on-loan in the January transfer window in a similar deal to the one that saw him sign for the Gunners during the MLS off-season last year.
"I have learned in the years when Henry has been here," Walcott told ESPN. "But he has started training with us as well, so just to be around him other players are going to gain more and more experience.
"He's shown what qualities he has last season, so hopefully [a loan deal] can be sorted out and [we can] learn from the best."
Arsenal striker Theo Walcott has stated that "something will be sorted soon" on his future at the north London club, with his contract set to expire in the summer.
The 23-year-old scored his second hat-trick of the season in the Gunners' exhilarating 7-3 victory over Newcastle. Walcott has admitted talks are ongoing, although the England international will be permitted to speak to other clubs when the transfer window opens on January 1.
"I will continue to play my football," he told BBC Sport. "Talks are ongoing and I'm sure something will be sorted soon."
New York Red Bulls and former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has been training with the Gunners recently and Walcott admits he has learned from the Frenchman. Henry is expected to rejoin Arsenal on-loan in the January transfer window in a similar deal to the one that saw him sign for the Gunners during the MLS off-season last year.
"I have learned in the years when Henry has been here," Walcott told ESPN. "But he has started training with us as well, so just to be around him other players are going to gain more and more experience.
"He's shown what qualities he has last season, so hopefully [a loan deal] can be sorted out and [we can] learn from the best."
Zanetti set for Inter coaching role after retirement
Inter midfielder Javier Zanetti wants to remain in Italy after his playing career ends and says he will move into a coaching role for the Nerazzurri once he retires.
The Argentine spoke fondly of his home country, but said he wanted to continue working at the Serie A side where he has played since 1995.
"The club has given me a lot. My life is now in Italy and when I stop playing I will coach at Inter," he told Ole, adding, "It is all settled, I was good for the club all these years and that will continue in a new role. I will remain in Milan with my family."
But Zanetti also expressed his desire to continue charitable efforts supporting disenfranchised children in Argentina, but ruled out a permanent return to his homeland in the forseeable future.
"I often return to Argentina, but only for events or activities related to the Fondacion Pupi," he said. "And so it will continue to be."
Inter midfielder Javier Zanetti wants to remain in Italy after his playing career ends and says he will move into a coaching role for the Nerazzurri once he retires.
The Argentine spoke fondly of his home country, but said he wanted to continue working at the Serie A side where he has played since 1995.
"The club has given me a lot. My life is now in Italy and when I stop playing I will coach at Inter," he told Ole, adding, "It is all settled, I was good for the club all these years and that will continue in a new role. I will remain in Milan with my family."
But Zanetti also expressed his desire to continue charitable efforts supporting disenfranchised children in Argentina, but ruled out a permanent return to his homeland in the forseeable future.
"I often return to Argentina, but only for events or activities related to the Fondacion Pupi," he said. "And so it will continue to be."
Villas-Boas: Tottenham striker Adebayor may shun African Cup of Nations over safety fears
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has admitted he is unsure whether Emmanuel Adebayor will opt to compete in Togo's Africa Cup of Nations campaign in South Africa due to safety concerns.
The 28-year-old was traveling to Angola for the 2010 edition of the competition when his team's coach came under gunfire, resulting in three deaths.
Adebayor is currently involved in a dispute with the national federation but his main concerns lie with whether authorities can guarantee security will not be compromised in January's competition.
Villas-Boas told Sky Sports: "It's very difficult for me to tell [whether Adebayor will travel]. At the moment, there is a dispute between him and the federation, the player has spoken about it already.
"He has also said that situation is not just about the dispute that they have - it is also about the fact that he doesn't feel comfort and safety in going to the African Nations Cup.
"I can't put myself in his position to tell if he is going or not going because I respect the player, I respect the competition and if he has to go, we just have to make sure we address the problem he has."
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations begins on January 19 and will conclude on February 10.
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has admitted he is unsure whether Emmanuel Adebayor will opt to compete in Togo's Africa Cup of Nations campaign in South Africa due to safety concerns.
The 28-year-old was traveling to Angola for the 2010 edition of the competition when his team's coach came under gunfire, resulting in three deaths.
Adebayor is currently involved in a dispute with the national federation but his main concerns lie with whether authorities can guarantee security will not be compromised in January's competition.
Villas-Boas told Sky Sports: "It's very difficult for me to tell [whether Adebayor will travel]. At the moment, there is a dispute between him and the federation, the player has spoken about it already.
"He has also said that situation is not just about the dispute that they have - it is also about the fact that he doesn't feel comfort and safety in going to the African Nations Cup.
"I can't put myself in his position to tell if he is going or not going because I respect the player, I respect the competition and if he has to go, we just have to make sure we address the problem he has."
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations begins on January 19 and will conclude on February 10.
Ancelotti rules out further PSG signings
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Carlo Ancelotti has ruled out any signings in the January transfer window.
Lucas Moura will be the only new arrival in the winter break at Parc des Princes, though his signing from Sao Paulo was finalized during the summer for a reported 45 million euros.
Ancelotti praised the 20-year-old’s talent, and insisted that he has faith in his current squad to succeed this season.
"He is a great player, a young player, and he will be the future of the club," the PSG boss was quoted in L’Equipe. "We are happy because it was not easy to recruit a player as important as he is and he can help the team do better. But [we will not sign others] because we have a very good team and very good players."We made a big push in the summer transfer window and signed several players. There is no need to recruit any more."
Lucas’ signing means that Ancelotti’s squad size has increased to 30, and the Ligue 1 coach admitted that he is open to players leaving in January."Managing 30 players is not easy," the former Chelsea and AC Milan boss added. "If players want to leave the club, we can think about it but right now there is nothing official."
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Carlo Ancelotti has ruled out any signings in the January transfer window.
Lucas Moura will be the only new arrival in the winter break at Parc des Princes, though his signing from Sao Paulo was finalized during the summer for a reported 45 million euros.
Ancelotti praised the 20-year-old’s talent, and insisted that he has faith in his current squad to succeed this season.
"He is a great player, a young player, and he will be the future of the club," the PSG boss was quoted in L’Equipe. "We are happy because it was not easy to recruit a player as important as he is and he can help the team do better. But [we will not sign others] because we have a very good team and very good players."We made a big push in the summer transfer window and signed several players. There is no need to recruit any more."
Lucas’ signing means that Ancelotti’s squad size has increased to 30, and the Ligue 1 coach admitted that he is open to players leaving in January."Managing 30 players is not easy," the former Chelsea and AC Milan boss added. "If players want to leave the club, we can think about it but right now there is nothing official."
Bale: Cristiano Ronaldo is my idol
Tottenham winger Gareth Bale has hailed Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo as his icon, following a spectacular year for both of the attackers.
Bale has netted nine goals from the flanks in the Premier League so far this campaign and has been a catalyst for his squad's attack. In comparison, Ronaldo has scored 14 goals in La Liga during the 2012-13 season and the Wales international aspires to emulate the 27-year old's flair and creativity.
"Things are different nowadays, you have to do something new, or otherwise you end up being predictable on the pitch," Bale told ESPN.
"Like Cristiano Ronaldo – he never misses an opportunity to come up with new ways of doing things. I'd have to go with him. He is my idol."
Bale had a chance to play alongside the former Manchester United player when he was approached by Sir Alex Ferguson before opting to sign for Tottenham back in 2007.
The 23-year old stated earlier this year that he feared that he would not get first team opportunities at Old Trafford, and he has developed into a stronghold Premier League figure as he continues be a key figure for his team.
Bale's side goes into the new year with a top-four position following a 2-1 comeback against Sunderland on Saturday, but Bale will not feature in the team's next match against Reading, having picked up his fifth booking of the season.
Tottenham winger Gareth Bale has hailed Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo as his icon, following a spectacular year for both of the attackers.
Bale has netted nine goals from the flanks in the Premier League so far this campaign and has been a catalyst for his squad's attack. In comparison, Ronaldo has scored 14 goals in La Liga during the 2012-13 season and the Wales international aspires to emulate the 27-year old's flair and creativity.
"Things are different nowadays, you have to do something new, or otherwise you end up being predictable on the pitch," Bale told ESPN.
"Like Cristiano Ronaldo – he never misses an opportunity to come up with new ways of doing things. I'd have to go with him. He is my idol."
Bale had a chance to play alongside the former Manchester United player when he was approached by Sir Alex Ferguson before opting to sign for Tottenham back in 2007.
The 23-year old stated earlier this year that he feared that he would not get first team opportunities at Old Trafford, and he has developed into a stronghold Premier League figure as he continues be a key figure for his team.
Bale's side goes into the new year with a top-four position following a 2-1 comeback against Sunderland on Saturday, but Bale will not feature in the team's next match against Reading, having picked up his fifth booking of the season.
Wenger: Walcott belongs at Arsenal
Arsene Wenger insists Theo Walcott “belongs” at Arsenal after the England forward’s hat trick helped his side to a magnificent 7-3 victory over Newcastle.
The 23-year-old has little over six months left on his current contract and with little sign of a resolution imminent, could become the latest high-profile star to flee Emirates Stadium.
But his manager is adamant the former Southampton starlet maintains a deep affection for the club he joined as a 16 year old back in 2006 and is seeking a swift and amicable resolution.
Wenger told reporters: "He belongs here. I want it resolved with the same intensity. I think he loves the club and the club loves him."
The England international's treble against the Magpies was kick-started by a superb goal that saw him cut in from the left flank and curl an unstoppable shot past Tim Krul, reminiscent of several strikes scored by Gunners legend Thierry Henry - which the Frenchman also picked up on.
Wenger beamed: "That was a Thierry Henry-type goal.
"He has done very well, it typifies what I think he can do. He can play through the middle, he will only get stronger.
"He is a good finisher, he has learned a lot because he is an intelligent player. He will continue to improve."
Arsene Wenger insists Theo Walcott “belongs” at Arsenal after the England forward’s hat trick helped his side to a magnificent 7-3 victory over Newcastle.
The 23-year-old has little over six months left on his current contract and with little sign of a resolution imminent, could become the latest high-profile star to flee Emirates Stadium.
But his manager is adamant the former Southampton starlet maintains a deep affection for the club he joined as a 16 year old back in 2006 and is seeking a swift and amicable resolution.
Wenger told reporters: "He belongs here. I want it resolved with the same intensity. I think he loves the club and the club loves him."
The England international's treble against the Magpies was kick-started by a superb goal that saw him cut in from the left flank and curl an unstoppable shot past Tim Krul, reminiscent of several strikes scored by Gunners legend Thierry Henry - which the Frenchman also picked up on.
Wenger beamed: "That was a Thierry Henry-type goal.
"He has done very well, it typifies what I think he can do. He can play through the middle, he will only get stronger.
"He is a good finisher, he has learned a lot because he is an intelligent player. He will continue to improve."
Redknapp rules out Frank Lampard or Demba Ba signings
Harry Redknapp has squashed reports linking Demba Ba and Frank Lampard to QPR, with the former Tottenham boss ruling out moves for the duo.
Redknapp has made a steady start to life at Loftus Road, but is expected to look at available players in January, with the likes of Ba, Lampard and Joe Cole rumored to be likely targets.
However, the QPR manager told reporters of the difficulties he will face when trying to get players to join a club who are currently in the drop-zone.
“Who is going to let you have players at this stage of the season? Teams are either fighting to get to the top, to get into Europe, or to stay out of the bottom group,” he said.
“Why would you let someone go if you’re the manager of a team in the top four, five or six? Why are you going to weaken your squad? “Unless, that is, there’s a reason you want to get them out, so there’s obviously a problem if you want them out of your club in January.“It’s so difficult to find players who can make the difference to you. The time to do that is in the summer.”
Redknapp even admitted that there is no reason for Demba Ba to leave Newcastle for a club who have a lower ground capacity, especially considering the reports which have linked the striker to Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham.
“He’s a good player and he’s proved himself. I can’t see how we can get Demba Ba really, if we’re being realistic," Redknapp stated.
“It’s 7.5 million pounds and is he going to leave Newcastle – 55,000 people there every week – to come to a team at the bottom? I can’t see that, to be truthful.”
Harry Redknapp has squashed reports linking Demba Ba and Frank Lampard to QPR, with the former Tottenham boss ruling out moves for the duo.
Redknapp has made a steady start to life at Loftus Road, but is expected to look at available players in January, with the likes of Ba, Lampard and Joe Cole rumored to be likely targets.
However, the QPR manager told reporters of the difficulties he will face when trying to get players to join a club who are currently in the drop-zone.
“Who is going to let you have players at this stage of the season? Teams are either fighting to get to the top, to get into Europe, or to stay out of the bottom group,” he said.
“Why would you let someone go if you’re the manager of a team in the top four, five or six? Why are you going to weaken your squad? “Unless, that is, there’s a reason you want to get them out, so there’s obviously a problem if you want them out of your club in January.“It’s so difficult to find players who can make the difference to you. The time to do that is in the summer.”
Redknapp even admitted that there is no reason for Demba Ba to leave Newcastle for a club who have a lower ground capacity, especially considering the reports which have linked the striker to Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham.
“He’s a good player and he’s proved himself. I can’t see how we can get Demba Ba really, if we’re being realistic," Redknapp stated.
“It’s 7.5 million pounds and is he going to leave Newcastle – 55,000 people there every week – to come to a team at the bottom? I can’t see that, to be truthful.”
Sneijder: It would be best if I leave Inter in January
Wesley Sneijder thinks that it would be best for all parties involved if he left Inter in the January transfer window.
The Netherlands international refused to take a pay cut earlier this year, and has so far failed to reach an agreement with the club over a new contract.
Coach Andrea Stramaccioni opened the door for Sneijder to return to the first team, but the midfielder has now confirmed that the player's relationship with the club has deteriorated beyond repair.
"Clearly it’s better for everyone if I leave in January," the former Ajax man told De Telegraaf."If that doesn’t happen, then I will stay. I have a contract until the end of June 2015 with Inter."
Sneijder also confessed that it would be a privilege to wear the Dutch captain’s armband once more, and hopes he can return to the national set-up soon.
"It would be a great honor to wear it again," he said. "I have kept in contact with [head coach] Louis van Gaal over the last few months.
"I saw several players try to pass the buck after the Euros, leaking stories to the media about tension in the locker room. It seemed like that to me at times, but the atmosphere wasn’t that bad."
Wesley Sneijder thinks that it would be best for all parties involved if he left Inter in the January transfer window.
The Netherlands international refused to take a pay cut earlier this year, and has so far failed to reach an agreement with the club over a new contract.
Coach Andrea Stramaccioni opened the door for Sneijder to return to the first team, but the midfielder has now confirmed that the player's relationship with the club has deteriorated beyond repair.
"Clearly it’s better for everyone if I leave in January," the former Ajax man told De Telegraaf."If that doesn’t happen, then I will stay. I have a contract until the end of June 2015 with Inter."
Sneijder also confessed that it would be a privilege to wear the Dutch captain’s armband once more, and hopes he can return to the national set-up soon.
"It would be a great honor to wear it again," he said. "I have kept in contact with [head coach] Louis van Gaal over the last few months.
"I saw several players try to pass the buck after the Euros, leaking stories to the media about tension in the locker room. It seemed like that to me at times, but the atmosphere wasn’t that bad."
'It was not a red card... Samir did nothing' - Mancini angry at Nasri dismissal
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini was defiant in his assessment of Samir Nasri's dismissal against Norwich City, insisting "it was not a red card".
The midfielder was given his marching orders just before halftime after appearing to headbutt Canaries defender Sebastien Bassong following a strong tackle by the latter.
Nasri will now serve a three-match ban – unless the club protests the red card - which includes the trip to former side Arsenal on Jan. 13, but Mancini was adamant the Frenchman was innocent.
"It was not a red card. It was not a red card," he told Sky Sports News. "I can't understand why the linesman told the referee it was a red card. Samir did nothing.
"It changed the game. We would have won the game no problem, but with 10 players it was difficult. Norwich is a good team.
"But today we showed that we are there for the title because we [showed] fight.”
City was two goals to the good after just four minutes thanks to a double from Edin Dzeko, but a resilient Norwich side battled throughout before eventually succumbing to a 4-3 defeat.
Mancini was pleased to get back to winning ways after the 1-0 loss to Sunderland, but reiterated his belief his team deserved all three points on Boxing Day before dismissing the seven-point gap between themselves and title rival Manchester United.
"We played well and deserved to win [against Sunderland], we just failed to score. It is like that every year at Sunderland, we have 21, 22, 23 chances to score, and we don't score. But, that is in the past. We won today," he said.
"It is not important to look at the table. We just need to work, win and win many games in the row. Then we can look at the table in February."
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini was defiant in his assessment of Samir Nasri's dismissal against Norwich City, insisting "it was not a red card".
The midfielder was given his marching orders just before halftime after appearing to headbutt Canaries defender Sebastien Bassong following a strong tackle by the latter.
Nasri will now serve a three-match ban – unless the club protests the red card - which includes the trip to former side Arsenal on Jan. 13, but Mancini was adamant the Frenchman was innocent.
"It was not a red card. It was not a red card," he told Sky Sports News. "I can't understand why the linesman told the referee it was a red card. Samir did nothing.
"It changed the game. We would have won the game no problem, but with 10 players it was difficult. Norwich is a good team.
"But today we showed that we are there for the title because we [showed] fight.”
City was two goals to the good after just four minutes thanks to a double from Edin Dzeko, but a resilient Norwich side battled throughout before eventually succumbing to a 4-3 defeat.
Mancini was pleased to get back to winning ways after the 1-0 loss to Sunderland, but reiterated his belief his team deserved all three points on Boxing Day before dismissing the seven-point gap between themselves and title rival Manchester United.
"We played well and deserved to win [against Sunderland], we just failed to score. It is like that every year at Sunderland, we have 21, 22, 23 chances to score, and we don't score. But, that is in the past. We won today," he said.
"It is not important to look at the table. We just need to work, win and win many games in the row. Then we can look at the table in February."
Wenger confirms Arsenal plan to spend in January
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he will be busy in the January transfer window.
The Gunners have been linked with a string of different players in recent weeks and Wenger revealed, ahead of his side's clash against Newcastle on Saturday, that he will look to add to his squad.
The Frenchman says he wants a player who can immediately come in and improve his side, as Arsenal fight for another top four finish in the Premier League.
"Yes, I will be busy," he told reporters. "I don't feel under pressure to name names because you [the media] find them on your own.
"We have the potential to be in the Champions League with what we have. We are open to strengthening the team, but the difficulty is to find what strengthens us. [You don't always find that with] the players available on the market.
"Yes [we want players who can make an immediate impact], that is why it is so difficult as well. Man United bought Robin van Persie for 24 million pounds and he is 29 years old.
"They have scouts all over the world. They looked everywhere. Don't think that they just came in and bought Van Persie, they looked everywhere else. But to find the quality of striker that would strengthen a top Premier League team at the moment in the world is difficult."
Wenger also said he is ready to let fringe players move on but dismissed reports linking Andrey Arshavin with a move to Reading.
"No, that is not on the radar," he said. "I have not had a call from Reading.
"But if he finds a solution that is satisfying for him and for us we will consider it."
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he will be busy in the January transfer window.
The Gunners have been linked with a string of different players in recent weeks and Wenger revealed, ahead of his side's clash against Newcastle on Saturday, that he will look to add to his squad.
The Frenchman says he wants a player who can immediately come in and improve his side, as Arsenal fight for another top four finish in the Premier League.
"Yes, I will be busy," he told reporters. "I don't feel under pressure to name names because you [the media] find them on your own.
"We have the potential to be in the Champions League with what we have. We are open to strengthening the team, but the difficulty is to find what strengthens us. [You don't always find that with] the players available on the market.
"Yes [we want players who can make an immediate impact], that is why it is so difficult as well. Man United bought Robin van Persie for 24 million pounds and he is 29 years old.
"They have scouts all over the world. They looked everywhere. Don't think that they just came in and bought Van Persie, they looked everywhere else. But to find the quality of striker that would strengthen a top Premier League team at the moment in the world is difficult."
Wenger also said he is ready to let fringe players move on but dismissed reports linking Andrey Arshavin with a move to Reading.
"No, that is not on the radar," he said. "I have not had a call from Reading.
"But if he finds a solution that is satisfying for him and for us we will consider it."
Barclays Premier League 2012.12.30 Fixtures
Barclays Premier League 2012.12.30 Fixtures
Everton Vs Chelsea
QPR Vs Liverpool
'It was not a red card... Samir did nothing' - Mancini angry at Nasri dismissal
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini was defiant in his assessment of Samir Nasri's dismissal against Norwich City, insisting "it was not a red card".
The midfielder was given his marching orders just before halftime after appearing to headbutt Canaries defender Sebastien Bassong following a strong tackle by the latter.
Nasri will now serve a three-match ban – unless the club protests the red card - which includes the trip to former side Arsenal on Jan. 13, but Mancini was adamant the Frenchman was innocent.
"It was not a red card. It was not a red card," he told Sky Sports News. "I can't understand why the linesman told the referee it was a red card. Samir did nothing.
"It changed the game. We would have won the game no problem, but with 10 players it was difficult. Norwich is a good team.
"But today we showed that we are there for the title because we [showed] fight.”
City was two goals to the good after just four minutes thanks to a double from Edin Dzeko, but a resilient Norwich side battled throughout before eventually succumbing to a 4-3 defeat.
Mancini was pleased to get back to winning ways after the 1-0 loss to Sunderland, but reiterated his belief his team deserved all three points on Boxing Day before dismissing the seven-point gap between themselves and title rival Manchester United.
"We played well and deserved to win [against Sunderland], we just failed to score. It is like that every year at Sunderland, we have 21, 22, 23 chances to score, and we don't score. But, that is in the past. We won today," he said.
"It is not important to look at the table. We just need to work, win and win many games in the row. Then we can look at the table in February."
not a red card at all.
Norwich City 3-4 Manchester City: Dzeko double enough for champions in end-of-year cracker
Manchester City ended 2012 with three points after beating Norwich City 4-3 at Carrow Road in a fantastically entertaining encounter.
City raced into a two-goal lead thanks to two early Edin Dzeko strikes, but Anthony Pilkington pulled one back before Sergio Aguero got the Blues’ third before halftime.
Samir Nasri received a straight red card and Russell Martin got Norwich’s second, and later got a second of his own after Mark Bunn put the ball into his own goal and ensured that City got the three points.Roberto Mancini was understandably annoyed with his side’s performance against Sunderland, with four players suffering in particular. Kolo Toure James Milner, Javi Garcia and Carlos Tevez were all dropped to the bench as Gael Clichy, Gareth Barry, Samir Nasri and Edin Dzeko replaced them.
Last season, Norwich lost 5-1 and 6-1 at the hands of Mancini’s side and from the first five minutes it looked like it would be a similar scoreline. In just the second minute Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko combined well down the right before floating the ball over to the left for David Silva, who in turn cushioned it into the area and the Bosnian fired it past Mark Bunn for the opener.
Norwich looked a bit stunned and was even further behind after the visitors’ very next attack. Vincent Kompany powered through the middle, riding a challenge from Bradley Johnson before picking out Aguero, who took his time and picked out Dzeko, who doubled his tally.
After Mancini’s side’s impressive start, the match threatened to calm down, but Norwich had other ideas. Robert Snodgrass’ mazy run resulted in a controversial free kick on the edge of the area, and thanks to a deflection from the wall, Anthony Pilkington’s low effort beat Joe Hart.
Despite the Norwich goal, the champions continued to dominate and almost got a third through Yaya Toure before things turned sour right at the end of the first period. Samir Nasri reacted angrily to a strong challenge from Sebastien Bassong and received a straight red card after going nose to nose with the Cameroonian.
After halftime, City soon had its third of the day thanks to Sergio Aguero. Toure played a great pass over the Norwich defense, but Bassong failed to deal with it and the Argentine forward delightfully lofted it over Bunn and into the net.
It did not take long for Norwich to hit back, however, and the Canaries did so through a well-worked corner. After the corner was taken short, Robert Snodgrass produced an excellent cross that Bassong headed back across goal for Martin to head into the top corner.
In keeping with the match, City soon restored the two-goal cushion. Another long ball was played over the Norwich defense and after bringing it down with his chest, Dzeko fired the ball on to the post, and it bounced back on to Bunn and went over the line.The match wasn't getting any less ridiculous and Norwich grabbed a third with just over 15 minutes to go. Joe Hart failed to collect a Norwich corner and after an ensuing melee, Martin knocked the ball in for his second goal of the match.
Both sides pressed in the final minutes as Aguero had two very good efforts saved by Bunn, but the champions managed to hold on for the three points.
its always nice to watch aguero playing ! his moves just so lovely to see.
2 goals in 4 minutes
Come on City
Ferguson: We need Nani 
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted that Nani will not be leaving the club in the near future.
Nani has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford in recent times and has struggled to command a regular first-team place. It is a turn of events that has seen him widely tipped to depart United at some point in the next six months, with Arsenal mentioned as one potential suitor for his services.
However, Ferguson has denied that he wants to offload the Portugal winger, saying he will get a chance to play his way back into the first-team reckoning once he fully recovers from a hamstring injury that has hampered him over the past few weeks.Ferguson confirmed that negotiations between Nani and club chief executive David Gill over a new contract are ongoing, with his current deal due to expire in the summer of 2014.
Asked if he had a future at the club, Ferguson told United's official website: "Yes, absolutely. Why would I want to let him go? Obviously his people have been negotiating with David about a new contract but I don't know what stage we are at with that. But we won't be letting him go."We need a Nani. He offers something different from the other players. He's an incredible talent, the boy's a great talent.”
He added: “Unfortunately, he's injured at the moment so we sent him over to Dubai for a break and hoping a bit of warmth will help him in his recovery. He's not far away but he's far enough away. I don't think I'll get him back until probably the middle of January.
"It's a hamstring injury he's got. A player like Nani has never had a hamstring injury ever. I don't think he's ever had many injuries with us, but he's got it right in the top and it's a bad one."
United & Spurs on alert after Sneijder’s Inter Milan quit hint
WESLEY SNEIJDER last night opened the door for a cut-price £11million January move from Inter Milan to Manchester United or Tottenham.
The Inter superstar has been frozen out at the San Siro after refusing to accept a £1.6m-a-year pay cut. He has run out of patience and demanded a move, putting pressure on the Italians to accept a low fee or pay his lucrative deal until 2015. Sneijder, 28, said: “It’s clear it is the best for everyone concerned that in January I am transferred.”
Inter coach Andrea Stramaccioni has left Sneijder out of the team. The Dutch playmaker has been United boss Alex Ferguson’s top choice to replace Paul Scholes in the past.
But Inter’s £40m valuation and his astronomical £10m-a-year wages proved a stumbling block 18 months ago. This could be United’s big chance to capture one of the world’s great midfielders — but if they pass it up then Spurs will be waiting to pounce.
WESLEY SNEIJDER last night opened the door for a cut-price £11million January move from Inter Milan to Manchester United or Tottenham.
The Inter superstar has been frozen out at the San Siro after refusing to accept a £1.6m-a-year pay cut. He has run out of patience and demanded a move, putting pressure on the Italians to accept a low fee or pay his lucrative deal until 2015. Sneijder, 28, said: “It’s clear it is the best for everyone concerned that in January I am transferred.”
Inter coach Andrea Stramaccioni has left Sneijder out of the team. The Dutch playmaker has been United boss Alex Ferguson’s top choice to replace Paul Scholes in the past.
But Inter’s £40m valuation and his astronomical £10m-a-year wages proved a stumbling block 18 months ago. This could be United’s big chance to capture one of the world’s great midfielders — but if they pass it up then Spurs will be waiting to pounce.
QPR 0-3 Liverpool: Suarez strikes early to pile pressure on woeful hosts
An early flurry of goals, including two for Luis Suarez, saw Liverpool breeze past QPR 3-0 at Loftus Road on Sunday.
Suarez struck twice in the opening 20 minutes before Daniel Agger headed home from a corner in a dominant first half for Liverpool.
Reds boss Brendan Rodgers missed the trip through illness, so Colin Pascoe took charge, making three changes from Boxing Day's defeat to Stoke, while the most notable change in five for QPR saw Rob Green dropped in favor of Julio Cesar after his clanger in defeat to West Brom.
The Reds started brightly, and Suarez forced an early save from Cesar with a fierce drive that the Brazilian parried towards Joe Allen, but the Welshman scuffed his volley when following in.
Suarez was not to be denied in the 10th minute, though, as he picked the ball up 30 yards out and drove towards goal, leaving Clint Hill in his wake before calmly slotting home from inside the area.
Six minutes later, Liverpool and Suarez had a second as Stewart Downing released the Uruguayan down the right, where he lashed the ball across the box toward Raheem Sterling. Nedum Onuoha's last-ditch block put the ball back on Suarez's foot, and he swept it home from six yards.
Harry Redknapp's side was split open again soon after as Martin Skrtel's long ball from the back released Glen Johnson. The right back stormed at goal before scuffing across goal, beating Cesar, but Ryan Nelsen hacked away the danger with Suarez awaiting a tap-in.
The Hoops were undone again before the half hour as Downing's quick corner found Gerrard who swung a cross in that an unmarked Agger nodded back across goal and past Cesar at the vacant far post.
Redknapp responded at the break by replacing Djibril Cisse with Shaun Derry, but little changed as Sterling burst in from the left before feeding Suarez, whose stinging left-footed effort drew a flying save from Cesar.
The Reds' tempo dropped in the second period, with Reina being called into action by Adel Taarabt and Stephane Mbia, while substitute Esteban Granero scuffed a low free kick wide with his first touch.
The hosts ran out of steam late on, with only a tame Mbia free kick to show for their efforts as the game meandered to a close, as Liverpool climbed one place to ninth and ensured the Hoops will end 2012 rooted to the foot of the Premier League table.
An early flurry of goals, including two for Luis Suarez, saw Liverpool breeze past QPR 3-0 at Loftus Road on Sunday.
Suarez struck twice in the opening 20 minutes before Daniel Agger headed home from a corner in a dominant first half for Liverpool.
Reds boss Brendan Rodgers missed the trip through illness, so Colin Pascoe took charge, making three changes from Boxing Day's defeat to Stoke, while the most notable change in five for QPR saw Rob Green dropped in favor of Julio Cesar after his clanger in defeat to West Brom.
The Reds started brightly, and Suarez forced an early save from Cesar with a fierce drive that the Brazilian parried towards Joe Allen, but the Welshman scuffed his volley when following in.
Suarez was not to be denied in the 10th minute, though, as he picked the ball up 30 yards out and drove towards goal, leaving Clint Hill in his wake before calmly slotting home from inside the area.
Six minutes later, Liverpool and Suarez had a second as Stewart Downing released the Uruguayan down the right, where he lashed the ball across the box toward Raheem Sterling. Nedum Onuoha's last-ditch block put the ball back on Suarez's foot, and he swept it home from six yards.
Harry Redknapp's side was split open again soon after as Martin Skrtel's long ball from the back released Glen Johnson. The right back stormed at goal before scuffing across goal, beating Cesar, but Ryan Nelsen hacked away the danger with Suarez awaiting a tap-in.
The Hoops were undone again before the half hour as Downing's quick corner found Gerrard who swung a cross in that an unmarked Agger nodded back across goal and past Cesar at the vacant far post.
Redknapp responded at the break by replacing Djibril Cisse with Shaun Derry, but little changed as Sterling burst in from the left before feeding Suarez, whose stinging left-footed effort drew a flying save from Cesar.
The Reds' tempo dropped in the second period, with Reina being called into action by Adel Taarabt and Stephane Mbia, while substitute Esteban Granero scuffed a low free kick wide with his first touch.
The hosts ran out of steam late on, with only a tame Mbia free kick to show for their efforts as the game meandered to a close, as Liverpool climbed one place to ninth and ensured the Hoops will end 2012 rooted to the foot of the Premier League table.
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