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..::Football III::..
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UEFA Champions League Draw in Pictures 2015.08.27
Europa League: Liverpool get Bordeaux & Rubin Kazan, Dortmund draw PAOK
Liverpool have been drawn with Rubin Kazan, Bordeaux and Sion in their Europa League group, while Borussia Dortmund have been paired with PAOK, Krasnodar and Qabala.
The German side progressed to the group stage of the competition with an 11-5 aggregate win over Norwegian side Odd. Thomas Tuchel's men are looking to compete on three fronts this term and face travels to Greece, Russia and Azerbaijan in the European competition.
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs Spurs and Liverpool have been handed tricky draws, with Mauricio Pochettino's side having to navigate their way past Anderlecht in a rematch of the 1984 Uefa Cup final, Monaco and Azerbaijani side Qarabag in Group J.Group B sees Liverpool take on Rubin Kazan, Bordeaux and Swiss side Sion, who the Reds beat in the 1996-97 Uefa Cup Winners' Cup second round.
Meanwhile, a competitive Group A will see Ajax meet Fenerbahce for the first time since the 1968/69 European Cup, and also do battle with Scottish champions Celtic, and Norwegian champs Molde.
Elsewhere last year’s runners-up Dnipro will meet Lazio and Fiorentina will face Swiss champions Basel in a clash that will see the Viola’s new coach Paulo Sousa make an early return to his former club.
Liverpool have been drawn with Rubin Kazan, Bordeaux and Sion in their Europa League group, while Borussia Dortmund have been paired with PAOK, Krasnodar and Qabala.
The German side progressed to the group stage of the competition with an 11-5 aggregate win over Norwegian side Odd. Thomas Tuchel's men are looking to compete on three fronts this term and face travels to Greece, Russia and Azerbaijan in the European competition.
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs Spurs and Liverpool have been handed tricky draws, with Mauricio Pochettino's side having to navigate their way past Anderlecht in a rematch of the 1984 Uefa Cup final, Monaco and Azerbaijani side Qarabag in Group J.Group B sees Liverpool take on Rubin Kazan, Bordeaux and Swiss side Sion, who the Reds beat in the 1996-97 Uefa Cup Winners' Cup second round.
Meanwhile, a competitive Group A will see Ajax meet Fenerbahce for the first time since the 1968/69 European Cup, and also do battle with Scottish champions Celtic, and Norwegian champs Molde.
Elsewhere last year’s runners-up Dnipro will meet Lazio and Fiorentina will face Swiss champions Basel in a clash that will see the Viola’s new coach Paulo Sousa make an early return to his former club.
Bolt is the Messi of athletics - Luis Enrique
Luis Enrique has compared Usain Bolt to Barcelona star Lionel Messi, stating that he is the best sprinter of all time.
The 29-year-old beat Justin Gatlin in Beijing to lift gold in the 200m at the world championships for the fourth time in a row.
And the Barca coach believes that the Jamaican is to athletics what Messi is to football.
"You could make a good comparison between Messi and Bolt," he told reporters.
"Bolt is the best sprinter of all time and is a brand and I think Messi is the best player of all time."
The Catalan side have been drawn with Bayer Leverkusen, Roma and BATE Borisov in their Champions League group, and the coach is looking forward to beginning his team's defence of the European crown.
"It's a more exciting competition with tough opponents, how could it be otherwise? We have a tough group, like most teams.
"It is a very attractive, very difficult group, no doubt. It's not as difficult as Sevilla's group - they drew Juventus, Manchester City and Borussia Monchengladbach, but it is difficult.
"We will try to do something that nobody has done in modern times, winning two Champions League titles."
Sergio Busquets and Neymar have missed Barca's start to the season through injury, but Luis Enrique is pleased with how they are recovering.
"Busquets has been able to train since yesterday and is doing very well.
"As for Neymar, I've also seen that he has recovered very well and is of the normal level of a player has been out for two weeks through injury.
"He is not 100 per cent, but no player is at that level now."
Luis Enrique has compared Usain Bolt to Barcelona star Lionel Messi, stating that he is the best sprinter of all time.
The 29-year-old beat Justin Gatlin in Beijing to lift gold in the 200m at the world championships for the fourth time in a row.
And the Barca coach believes that the Jamaican is to athletics what Messi is to football.
"You could make a good comparison between Messi and Bolt," he told reporters.
"Bolt is the best sprinter of all time and is a brand and I think Messi is the best player of all time."
The Catalan side have been drawn with Bayer Leverkusen, Roma and BATE Borisov in their Champions League group, and the coach is looking forward to beginning his team's defence of the European crown.
"It's a more exciting competition with tough opponents, how could it be otherwise? We have a tough group, like most teams.
"It is a very attractive, very difficult group, no doubt. It's not as difficult as Sevilla's group - they drew Juventus, Manchester City and Borussia Monchengladbach, but it is difficult.
"We will try to do something that nobody has done in modern times, winning two Champions League titles."
Sergio Busquets and Neymar have missed Barca's start to the season through injury, but Luis Enrique is pleased with how they are recovering.
"Busquets has been able to train since yesterday and is doing very well.
"As for Neymar, I've also seen that he has recovered very well and is of the normal level of a player has been out for two weeks through injury.
"He is not 100 per cent, but no player is at that level now."
Markovic has Liverpool future - Rodgers
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers insists Lazar Markovic still has a future at Anfield, but will not be drawn on reports of a loan switch.
The Serbia international arrived on Merseyside ahead of the 2014-15 season, but made just 11 Premier League starts during his debut campaign.
Markovic is now said to be close to securing a temporary move to Fenerbahce, although Rodgers is keen to stress he is not closing the door on the 21-year-old.
"Markovic still has a future here," he said. "I won't be commenting on transfers, in or out."
One man to have already left Liverpool is Mario Balotelli, who completed a move back to Milan on loan on Thursday after his own disappointing first season under Rodgers.
"It's a good move for Mario," added Rodgers. "He goes to play and gets a season of playing football in his homeland."
Despite Balotelli's exit, Liverpool are not short on strikers, with Christian Benteke, Danny Ings, Fabio Borini and Divock Origi all at Rodgers' disposal.
Daniel Sturridge will hope he can soon be challenging Benteke for a first-team berth, but Rodgers says the England international, who has been out since April with a hip injury, will not be rushed back.
"There is no timeline," he explained. "He's come back from America. He looks well.
"We will take it week on week. There's no pressure."
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers insists Lazar Markovic still has a future at Anfield, but will not be drawn on reports of a loan switch.
The Serbia international arrived on Merseyside ahead of the 2014-15 season, but made just 11 Premier League starts during his debut campaign.
Markovic is now said to be close to securing a temporary move to Fenerbahce, although Rodgers is keen to stress he is not closing the door on the 21-year-old.
"Markovic still has a future here," he said. "I won't be commenting on transfers, in or out."
One man to have already left Liverpool is Mario Balotelli, who completed a move back to Milan on loan on Thursday after his own disappointing first season under Rodgers.
"It's a good move for Mario," added Rodgers. "He goes to play and gets a season of playing football in his homeland."
Despite Balotelli's exit, Liverpool are not short on strikers, with Christian Benteke, Danny Ings, Fabio Borini and Divock Origi all at Rodgers' disposal.
Daniel Sturridge will hope he can soon be challenging Benteke for a first-team berth, but Rodgers says the England international, who has been out since April with a hip injury, will not be rushed back.
"There is no timeline," he explained. "He's come back from America. He looks well.
"We will take it week on week. There's no pressure."
Liverpool's Can earns first Germany call-up
Liverpool midfielder Emre Can has earned his first call-up to the Germany squad for their upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers against Poland and Scotland.
The 21-year-old has been in impressive form so far this season, catching the eye of Germany coach Joachim Low, as Liverpool remain unbeaten in the Premier League.
Can is the only uncapped member of the squad, while Manuel Neuer, Thomas Muller and Toni Kroos all return to the set-up after being rested for the June friendly against the USA.
Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger is also in the squad, alongside Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil.
Germany sit second in Group D, one point behind Poland, who they host on September 4 before travelling to Glasgow to face Gordon Strachan's men at Hampden Park three days later.
Germany squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Marc-Andre Ter Stegen (Barcelona), Ron-Robert Zieler (Hannover 96)
Defenders: Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich), Jonas Hector (FC Koln), Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund), Matthias Ginter (Borussia Dortmund), Shkodran Mustafi (Valencia), Sebastien Rudy (Hoffenheim)
Midfielders: Karim Bellarabi (Bayer Leverkusen), Emre Can (Liverpool), Ilkay Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund), Christoph Kramer (Bayer Leverkusen), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal), Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Manchester United)
Forwards: Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich), Max Kruse (Wolfsburg), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Lukas Podolski (Galatasaray), Andre Schurrle (Wolfsburg), Kevin Volland (Hoffenheim)
Liverpool midfielder Emre Can has earned his first call-up to the Germany squad for their upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers against Poland and Scotland.
The 21-year-old has been in impressive form so far this season, catching the eye of Germany coach Joachim Low, as Liverpool remain unbeaten in the Premier League.
Can is the only uncapped member of the squad, while Manuel Neuer, Thomas Muller and Toni Kroos all return to the set-up after being rested for the June friendly against the USA.
Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger is also in the squad, alongside Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil.
Germany sit second in Group D, one point behind Poland, who they host on September 4 before travelling to Glasgow to face Gordon Strachan's men at Hampden Park three days later.
Germany squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Marc-Andre Ter Stegen (Barcelona), Ron-Robert Zieler (Hannover 96)
Defenders: Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich), Jonas Hector (FC Koln), Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund), Matthias Ginter (Borussia Dortmund), Shkodran Mustafi (Valencia), Sebastien Rudy (Hoffenheim)
Midfielders: Karim Bellarabi (Bayer Leverkusen), Emre Can (Liverpool), Ilkay Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund), Christoph Kramer (Bayer Leverkusen), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal), Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Manchester United)
Forwards: Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich), Max Kruse (Wolfsburg), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Lukas Podolski (Galatasaray), Andre Schurrle (Wolfsburg), Kevin Volland (Hoffenheim)
Rooney's contribution undervalued - Schmeichel
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has defended striker Wayne Rooney and said the 29-year-old's overall contribution was undervalued.
The Red Devils' captain ended his goalless run with a hat-trick in United's 4-0 win at Club Brugge in their UEFA Champions League play-off second leg on Wednesday.
While Rooney's wait for a Premier League goal this season continues, United great Schmeichel said there was more to the England international's game, ahead of the match against Swansea City on Sunday.
Schmeichel, a five-time league winner with United, denied Rooney had been struggling."What I sometimes think is not happening is looking at what Wayne does for the team," the 51-year-old told Sky Sports News.
"Wayne is an unselfish player, Wayne leaves room for everybody else, Wayne creates a lot of opportunities for everybody else and Wayne's a leader.
The Dane, who also had Premier League spells with Aston Villa and Manchester City, suggested that the captaincy could be impacting on Rooney's goalscoring form, but insisted that the striker was deealing well with the extra responsibility.
"He's taken over the armband and what is clear to me is that he's taken upon him a responsibility that he takes very seriously. I think he's not been struggling.
"OK, he's not been scoring the number of goals but as long as someone else is scoring the goals that are needed [it's OK]."[Against] Newcastle, you can argue that we should score more goals and we probably should have, but those kind of games, you have them.
"You can't even explain why they are happening but I think with Wayne's performance [against Club Brugge], I don't think the question was very fair, because to score a hat-trick put it to bed so early in the game, I think that's what Wayne Rooney's all about."
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has defended striker Wayne Rooney and said the 29-year-old's overall contribution was undervalued.
The Red Devils' captain ended his goalless run with a hat-trick in United's 4-0 win at Club Brugge in their UEFA Champions League play-off second leg on Wednesday.
While Rooney's wait for a Premier League goal this season continues, United great Schmeichel said there was more to the England international's game, ahead of the match against Swansea City on Sunday.
Schmeichel, a five-time league winner with United, denied Rooney had been struggling."What I sometimes think is not happening is looking at what Wayne does for the team," the 51-year-old told Sky Sports News.
"Wayne is an unselfish player, Wayne leaves room for everybody else, Wayne creates a lot of opportunities for everybody else and Wayne's a leader.
The Dane, who also had Premier League spells with Aston Villa and Manchester City, suggested that the captaincy could be impacting on Rooney's goalscoring form, but insisted that the striker was deealing well with the extra responsibility.
"He's taken over the armband and what is clear to me is that he's taken upon him a responsibility that he takes very seriously. I think he's not been struggling.
"OK, he's not been scoring the number of goals but as long as someone else is scoring the goals that are needed [it's OK]."[Against] Newcastle, you can argue that we should score more goals and we probably should have, but those kind of games, you have them.
"You can't even explain why they are happening but I think with Wayne's performance [against Club Brugge], I don't think the question was very fair, because to score a hat-trick put it to bed so early in the game, I think that's what Wayne Rooney's all about."
Mourinho hints at referee influence after poor Chelsea start
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has hinted that refereeing decisions have contributed to the club's lacklustre start to their Premier League title defence.
The Blues have struggled in the opening stages of the season, failing to find a win until their third fixture, a 3-2 victory away to West Brom, following an opening day draw with Swansea and a 3-0 loss to Manchester City.
Thibaut Courtois was sent off as the Premier League champions kicked off their campaign before captain John Terry was dismissed in the recent narrow victory at the Hawthorns for a pull on Salomon Rondon.
Mourinho claimed the decisions affecting Chelsea's performances are "not normal", hacing conceded two penalties and two red cards - against Swansea and West Brom, respectively - in their first three games.
"I think the most important thing of this start to the season is that it’s not normal that, in three matches, you have two penalties against and play with 10 men twice," Mourinho said.
"That’s the thing that immediately comes to the mind of someone analysing the situation. Apart from that, one match at home, two away, four points."
Chelsea, who sit tenth in the Premier League table after three matches, host Alan Pardew's Crystal Palace on Saturday, hoping to overtake the Eagles and gain a foothold in the top five.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has hinted that refereeing decisions have contributed to the club's lacklustre start to their Premier League title defence.
The Blues have struggled in the opening stages of the season, failing to find a win until their third fixture, a 3-2 victory away to West Brom, following an opening day draw with Swansea and a 3-0 loss to Manchester City.
Thibaut Courtois was sent off as the Premier League champions kicked off their campaign before captain John Terry was dismissed in the recent narrow victory at the Hawthorns for a pull on Salomon Rondon.
Mourinho claimed the decisions affecting Chelsea's performances are "not normal", hacing conceded two penalties and two red cards - against Swansea and West Brom, respectively - in their first three games.
"I think the most important thing of this start to the season is that it’s not normal that, in three matches, you have two penalties against and play with 10 men twice," Mourinho said.
"That’s the thing that immediately comes to the mind of someone analysing the situation. Apart from that, one match at home, two away, four points."
Chelsea, who sit tenth in the Premier League table after three matches, host Alan Pardew's Crystal Palace on Saturday, hoping to overtake the Eagles and gain a foothold in the top five.
Official: Lopes leaves Man City for Monaco
Manchester City have confirmed that midfielder Marcos 'Rony' Lopes has joined Monaco.
The 20-year-old joined City from Benfica in 2011, going on to make just five senior appearances - including a goalscoring debut in the League Cup.
Lopes enjoyed a loan spell with Lille last season, scoring three goals in 27 games, and has now secured a switch to the Stade Louis II on a five-year deal.
"Sorry I couldn't say proper bye to my teammates," Lopes posted on his official Twitter account.
"I know Manchester City will win many titles, and I would like to thank everyone who worked with me from day one, especially Patrick Viera."
Manchester City have confirmed that midfielder Marcos 'Rony' Lopes has joined Monaco.
The 20-year-old joined City from Benfica in 2011, going on to make just five senior appearances - including a goalscoring debut in the League Cup.
Lopes enjoyed a loan spell with Lille last season, scoring three goals in 27 games, and has now secured a switch to the Stade Louis II on a five-year deal.
"Sorry I couldn't say proper bye to my teammates," Lopes posted on his official Twitter account.
"I know Manchester City will win many titles, and I would like to thank everyone who worked with me from day one, especially Patrick Viera."
Pulis on unsettled Berahino: He's not a lump of meat
West Brom head coach Tony Pulis has bemoaned the ongoing transfer saga involving striker Saido Berahino, stressing the player is "not just a lump of meat".
The 22-year-old is a known transfer target for Tottenham, although the arrival of Son Heung-min at White Hart Lane has thrown any potential deal into doubt.
But Pulis - who is hoping to secure the signings of Cardiff City goalkeeper David Marshall and Manchester United defender Jonny Evans before the transfer deadline - is unhappy with the disruption caused.
"The transfer window should close and then the season should start," he said. "Then we wouldn't have all this stuff going on. It's obviously been disruptive for all concerned."
Asked whether Berahino - who West Brom chairman Jeremy Peace has insisted will not be sold - would still be at the club next week, Pulis commented: "I don't know. We'll have to wait and see.
"I wasn't in the discussions that the chairman had with Saido yesterday. I've not seen Saido since. We're training this afternoon and I'll have a chat with the lad when he comes in.
"I'd never say never to anything until it's closed and factual. It's not just about football, it's about the person and it's about the lad. It's about what he's going through and what he's not going through.
"He's not just a lump of meat that people are throwing around. He's got emotions and we're trying to protect him."
West Brom head coach Tony Pulis has bemoaned the ongoing transfer saga involving striker Saido Berahino, stressing the player is "not just a lump of meat".
The 22-year-old is a known transfer target for Tottenham, although the arrival of Son Heung-min at White Hart Lane has thrown any potential deal into doubt.
But Pulis - who is hoping to secure the signings of Cardiff City goalkeeper David Marshall and Manchester United defender Jonny Evans before the transfer deadline - is unhappy with the disruption caused.
"The transfer window should close and then the season should start," he said. "Then we wouldn't have all this stuff going on. It's obviously been disruptive for all concerned."
Asked whether Berahino - who West Brom chairman Jeremy Peace has insisted will not be sold - would still be at the club next week, Pulis commented: "I don't know. We'll have to wait and see.
"I wasn't in the discussions that the chairman had with Saido yesterday. I've not seen Saido since. We're training this afternoon and I'll have a chat with the lad when he comes in.
"I'd never say never to anything until it's closed and factual. It's not just about football, it's about the person and it's about the lad. It's about what he's going through and what he's not going through.
"He's not just a lump of meat that people are throwing around. He's got emotions and we're trying to protect him."
Sissoko in contention to face Arsenal
Moussa Sissoko could feature for Newcastle United against Arsenal following a swift recovery from a groin injury, head coach Steve McClaren has revealed.
Sissoko missed Newcastle's 0-0 Premier League draw at Manchester United last Saturday and Tuesday's 4-1 League Cup second round success against Northampton Town.
Newcastle next welcome Arsenal to St James' Park seeking a maiden league victory of the campaign over a team they have not fared well against in recent times.
The Tyneside club have not beaten Arsenal since 2010, with their last home triumph over Arsene Wenger's men coming in 2005 but their hopes of ending that run have been boosted by Sissoko's progress.
McClaren told reporters: "We thought Moussa would have no chance but he has healed well. Is he ready? We will have to decide tomorrow.
"On Saturday, we need to repeat our performance from last weekend [against Manchester United]. We have to be compact and heroic, but better on the ball."
The thumping of Northampton was headlined by a fine performance from new signing Florian Thauvin, who marked his maiden start for Newcastle with a goal and three assists.
Asked about the French midfielder - signed for £12million from Marseille - McClaren added: "We thought Florian gave us a different dimension. The squad is coming together very well."
Moussa Sissoko could feature for Newcastle United against Arsenal following a swift recovery from a groin injury, head coach Steve McClaren has revealed.
Sissoko missed Newcastle's 0-0 Premier League draw at Manchester United last Saturday and Tuesday's 4-1 League Cup second round success against Northampton Town.
Newcastle next welcome Arsenal to St James' Park seeking a maiden league victory of the campaign over a team they have not fared well against in recent times.
The Tyneside club have not beaten Arsenal since 2010, with their last home triumph over Arsene Wenger's men coming in 2005 but their hopes of ending that run have been boosted by Sissoko's progress.
McClaren told reporters: "We thought Moussa would have no chance but he has healed well. Is he ready? We will have to decide tomorrow.
"On Saturday, we need to repeat our performance from last weekend [against Manchester United]. We have to be compact and heroic, but better on the ball."
The thumping of Northampton was headlined by a fine performance from new signing Florian Thauvin, who marked his maiden start for Newcastle with a goal and three assists.
Asked about the French midfielder - signed for £12million from Marseille - McClaren added: "We thought Florian gave us a different dimension. The squad is coming together very well."
Benitez: Bale criticism confuses me
Rafael Benitez has leapt to the defence of Gareth Bale, insisting he does not understand the criticism the Real Madrid attacker receives.
Despite a bright opening season at the Santiago Bernabeu in which he scored crucial goals in the Champions League and Copa del Rey final triumphs, the former Tottenham winger came under criticism last term due to some underwhelming displays in a torrid campaign for Madrid.
The scrutiny over the world record signing has left Benitez perplexed, insisting that the Welshman remains a "great" player who adds a lot to his squad.
"He is a fast player, with a good shot and he's good in the air," he said. "I don't understand the criticism.
"Gareth is a great player, we have many good players and we have to fix them in a good starting XI. To have many players of this kind is not a problem, it's a blessing."
Madrid opened their league campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against Sporting Gijon, prompting immediate criticism of the team and Benitez, but the coach insists it is wrong to insist his side are too defensive.
"These permanent debates after every match make no sense. Real Madrid was the team with more goal shots on the opening weekend of the season, so we are not defensive."
Rafael Benitez has leapt to the defence of Gareth Bale, insisting he does not understand the criticism the Real Madrid attacker receives.
Despite a bright opening season at the Santiago Bernabeu in which he scored crucial goals in the Champions League and Copa del Rey final triumphs, the former Tottenham winger came under criticism last term due to some underwhelming displays in a torrid campaign for Madrid.
The scrutiny over the world record signing has left Benitez perplexed, insisting that the Welshman remains a "great" player who adds a lot to his squad.
"He is a fast player, with a good shot and he's good in the air," he said. "I don't understand the criticism.
"Gareth is a great player, we have many good players and we have to fix them in a good starting XI. To have many players of this kind is not a problem, it's a blessing."
Madrid opened their league campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against Sporting Gijon, prompting immediate criticism of the team and Benitez, but the coach insists it is wrong to insist his side are too defensive.
"These permanent debates after every match make no sense. Real Madrid was the team with more goal shots on the opening weekend of the season, so we are not defensive."
Cuadrado: I don't know what went wrong at Chelsea
Juan Cuadrado remains unsure as to why he failed to become a first-team regular at Chelsea and is keen to make an immediate impact at Juventus.
The Colombia international joined the Serie A champions on loan on Tuesday after a frustrating six months at Stamford Bridge that only saw him make four starts.
Cuadrado struggled to explain why he could not make it into Jose Mourinho's plans, but hopes to put that behind him and be successful in Turin.
"What went wrong? The truth is, I don't know," he said. "I was always professional and I always trained very well. I didn't play as much as I wanted, but I was always ready.
"Moving to Juventus was the best choice for me and I hope to give my best, and give everything for this shirt.
"It's a new challenge for me. I've always been training, even if I wasn't playing, and I always train with playing in mind.
"This is a great move for me."
Juve travel to title rivals Roma this weekend and Cuadrado is ready to be thrown straight into action by coach Massimiliano Allegri.
He added: "I hope I get the opportunity to get on the pitch on Sunday, it would be a pleasure for me.
"There's plenty of competition for places here, I'll need to stay on my toes and be ready.
"I've played in both 4-3-3 and 3-5-2 systems that Juve employ, but regardless of the system, I'll give everything I've got.
"Roma will be a tough game, but we need to head to the Stadio Olimpico with the conviction that we can win it."
Juan Cuadrado remains unsure as to why he failed to become a first-team regular at Chelsea and is keen to make an immediate impact at Juventus.
The Colombia international joined the Serie A champions on loan on Tuesday after a frustrating six months at Stamford Bridge that only saw him make four starts.
Cuadrado struggled to explain why he could not make it into Jose Mourinho's plans, but hopes to put that behind him and be successful in Turin.
"What went wrong? The truth is, I don't know," he said. "I was always professional and I always trained very well. I didn't play as much as I wanted, but I was always ready.
"Moving to Juventus was the best choice for me and I hope to give my best, and give everything for this shirt.
"It's a new challenge for me. I've always been training, even if I wasn't playing, and I always train with playing in mind.
"This is a great move for me."
Juve travel to title rivals Roma this weekend and Cuadrado is ready to be thrown straight into action by coach Massimiliano Allegri.
He added: "I hope I get the opportunity to get on the pitch on Sunday, it would be a pleasure for me.
"There's plenty of competition for places here, I'll need to stay on my toes and be ready.
"I've played in both 4-3-3 and 3-5-2 systems that Juve employ, but regardless of the system, I'll give everything I've got.
"Roma will be a tough game, but we need to head to the Stadio Olimpico with the conviction that we can win it."
Platini: I won't seek Uefa re-election
Michel Platini has confirmed he will not seek a further term as the head of Uefa in 2019, even if he fails in his bid to become Fifa president.
The Frenchman is in the running to replace Sepp Blatter at the world governing body's Extraordinary Congress in February, following the Swiss' decision to step down.
Platini refused to answer questions on his presidential campaign, but he did reveal that he will not contest a fourth term with Uefa.
Asked whether he would call time on his presidency if he failed to win his Fifa bid, he told reporters: "Yes. I'm stopping there.
"That means I may support a limit to a term in office as president in general.
"One thing is clear, my destiny is clear in Uefa.
"I don't think it's the right time to discuss Fifa issues. We've never done that and we don't do that now.
"I'm a candidate for the presidency and I've said that since July. Elections are in six months' time and there's plenty of time to talk about that in due course."
Platini confirmed last month that he would stand as Blatter's replacement. The 79-year-old announced his intention to relinquish his mandate just a few days after being re-elected as president. The revelation came after Fifa was rocked by a corruption scandal which saw nine past and present officials indicted on charges of racketeering and conspiracy.
Along with Platini, former Fifa vice-president Chung Mong-joon has confirmed his intention to stand while Brazil great Zico, Liberia FA chairman Musa Bility and former Trinidad and Tobago captain David Nakhid are all expected to join the race.
Candidates have until October 26 to submit their intention to stand and must have backing from five Fifa members.
Michel Platini has confirmed he will not seek a further term as the head of Uefa in 2019, even if he fails in his bid to become Fifa president.
The Frenchman is in the running to replace Sepp Blatter at the world governing body's Extraordinary Congress in February, following the Swiss' decision to step down.
Platini refused to answer questions on his presidential campaign, but he did reveal that he will not contest a fourth term with Uefa.
Asked whether he would call time on his presidency if he failed to win his Fifa bid, he told reporters: "Yes. I'm stopping there.
"That means I may support a limit to a term in office as president in general.
"One thing is clear, my destiny is clear in Uefa.
"I don't think it's the right time to discuss Fifa issues. We've never done that and we don't do that now.
"I'm a candidate for the presidency and I've said that since July. Elections are in six months' time and there's plenty of time to talk about that in due course."
Platini confirmed last month that he would stand as Blatter's replacement. The 79-year-old announced his intention to relinquish his mandate just a few days after being re-elected as president. The revelation came after Fifa was rocked by a corruption scandal which saw nine past and present officials indicted on charges of racketeering and conspiracy.
Along with Platini, former Fifa vice-president Chung Mong-joon has confirmed his intention to stand while Brazil great Zico, Liberia FA chairman Musa Bility and former Trinidad and Tobago captain David Nakhid are all expected to join the race.
Candidates have until October 26 to submit their intention to stand and must have backing from five Fifa members.
Monk: No place for outcast Michu at Swansea
Swansea City manager Garry Monk has revealed that, even if the club fail to sell outcast Michu before Tuesday's transfer deadline, the forward will not force his way back into contention at the Liberty Stadium.
Michu proved a revelation when, after completing a £2 million move from Rayo Vallecano, he scored 18 Premier League goals in his debut season, earning his solitary Spain cap as a result.
However, injuries halted his momentum during the 2013-14 campaign and an unsuccessful loan spell at Napoli followed last term.
For a man who was arguably one of the hottest properties in English football at one stage, Swansea have found it particularly tough to offload Michu, but his exit remains a priority for Monk in the coming days.
"We are still negotiating," Monk said on Friday. "It's ongoing and we hope it gets resolved sooner rather than later. It's possible he could still be here after Tuesday's deadline but he's not part of my plans."
Discussing Michu's fall from grace, Monk added: "After his first season he had injuries which halted his progress. He's a great professional - he tried to come back and could not get back to where he was.
"This league changes so quickly and things come on. It was his decision last season to try something new. It has not worked out as he would like. But now we are a different animal and he does not fit in our plans."
Swansea City manager Garry Monk has revealed that, even if the club fail to sell outcast Michu before Tuesday's transfer deadline, the forward will not force his way back into contention at the Liberty Stadium.
Michu proved a revelation when, after completing a £2 million move from Rayo Vallecano, he scored 18 Premier League goals in his debut season, earning his solitary Spain cap as a result.
However, injuries halted his momentum during the 2013-14 campaign and an unsuccessful loan spell at Napoli followed last term.
For a man who was arguably one of the hottest properties in English football at one stage, Swansea have found it particularly tough to offload Michu, but his exit remains a priority for Monk in the coming days.
"We are still negotiating," Monk said on Friday. "It's ongoing and we hope it gets resolved sooner rather than later. It's possible he could still be here after Tuesday's deadline but he's not part of my plans."
Discussing Michu's fall from grace, Monk added: "After his first season he had injuries which halted his progress. He's a great professional - he tried to come back and could not get back to where he was.
"This league changes so quickly and things come on. It was his decision last season to try something new. It has not worked out as he would like. But now we are a different animal and he does not fit in our plans."
Louis van Gaal is targeting revenge as he prepares his Manchester United squad to face Swansea City.
Goals from Ki Sung-yueng and Gylfi Sigurdsson saw Van Gaal lose his first game in charge of United 12 months ago, before Garry Monk masterminded a second victory at the Liberty Stadium in March.
Van Gaal, who is now approaching his 50th game in charge, insists his squad are in better shape ahead of Sunday's clash but feels a victory is still a tall order.
"I don't want to lose again," he told reporters. "It's the only club we could not beat or gain one point against [last season]. I hope we can improve and that we can show that we are better than last year.
"My first match was against Swansea and we lost - now I have my 50th and I hope we can show we have improved. It will be difficult to beat them but we are better prepared than this time last year.
"Adnan Januzaj was injured and because of that he was out of the team. He shall not play against Swansea."
United were placed against PSV, CSKA Moscow and Wolfsburg on Thursday's Champions League group stage draw and Van Gaal says preparation is already underway ahead of the September 15 kick-off
"It could be worse but it could be better also," he said. "I am not so interested, we have to look now to the clubs because these days shape is more important than it was in the past.
"Marcel [Bout, United's chief scout] is already going to the matches of Wolfsburg and also PSV. PSV have to play Feyenoord so that’s a big match in Holland - we have to analyse now."
Digne: Roma have all they need to succeed
Lucas Digne believes Roma have all the resources they need to attain success this season as they look to challenge in the Champions League and Serie A.
The 22-year-old completed his move to the Stadio Olimpico from Paris Saint-Germain this week, reuniting with Rudi Garcia who coached him during his time at Lille.
And the right-back says he has been impressed by the team so far and is looking forward to playing in Europe's most prestigious competition.
“The Champions League had a big impact on my decision and having such strong support from the fans was massive for me," he told the club's official website. "I know that in this city and at this club there’s everything you need to have success."
“Working with Garcia again played a big part in my decision because I played under him for three years at Lille. I improved a lot under him and I really enjoyed working with him."
Roma take on Juventus on Sunday in their second league game of the season and Digne hopes he can feature for his new team.
“It’s a huge game, it’s very important," he said.
“It’s up to the Garcia if I play, but I’m ready.
"Juventus are a very good team. I had the chance to see the matches last year, and Roma were able to make it very difficult, so we hope to do the same again on Sunday.”
The France international is hoping to impress Didier Deschamps to secure a place in the national team for Euro 2016.
“It’s important for me to get more playing time and get as many matches under my belt as I can before Euro 2016.
“Playing for a big club in the Champions League was very important for me as well, and I can do that at Roma, so I’m delighted."
Lucas Digne believes Roma have all the resources they need to attain success this season as they look to challenge in the Champions League and Serie A.
The 22-year-old completed his move to the Stadio Olimpico from Paris Saint-Germain this week, reuniting with Rudi Garcia who coached him during his time at Lille.
And the right-back says he has been impressed by the team so far and is looking forward to playing in Europe's most prestigious competition.
“The Champions League had a big impact on my decision and having such strong support from the fans was massive for me," he told the club's official website. "I know that in this city and at this club there’s everything you need to have success."
“Working with Garcia again played a big part in my decision because I played under him for three years at Lille. I improved a lot under him and I really enjoyed working with him."
Roma take on Juventus on Sunday in their second league game of the season and Digne hopes he can feature for his new team.
“It’s a huge game, it’s very important," he said.
“It’s up to the Garcia if I play, but I’m ready.
"Juventus are a very good team. I had the chance to see the matches last year, and Roma were able to make it very difficult, so we hope to do the same again on Sunday.”
The France international is hoping to impress Didier Deschamps to secure a place in the national team for Euro 2016.
“It’s important for me to get more playing time and get as many matches under my belt as I can before Euro 2016.
“Playing for a big club in the Champions League was very important for me as well, and I can do that at Roma, so I’m delighted."
Official: Everton sign Leandro Rodriguez
Everton have completed the siging of Leandro Rodriguez from River Plate Montevideo on a four-year deal.
The 22-year-old striker, who scored 19 goals in 71 games for the Uruguayuan outfit over three years, leaves his hometown club for an undisclosed fee and will be a part of the first-team squad this season.
Martinez is excited by Rodriguez's potential and has compared him to another summer signing - Mason Holgate from Barnsley - though he expects the South American to make an immediate impact on the squad.
"He's a young talent - one of those elite, talented youngsters who we like to bring in," Martinez told the club's official website.
"Mason Holgate is a clear example of a really strong, young English defender and Leandro Rodriguez is a young striker with a real knack of scoring goals.
"But he's much more than that, too. His contribution is a lot more than that and hopefully we can provide a path where he can develop and enjoy his football. If he can do that, clearly that's going to bring goals to the first team.
"He probably won’t [need time with the Under-21s] because he has played enough games with his first team in Uruguay in a really competitive league.
"If you look at the amount of strikers that come through those environments, you don’t get surprised about the quality of these players.
"I am not saying that to put pressure on the boy, but he is a player we can be very much excited about in the future."
Everton have completed the siging of Leandro Rodriguez from River Plate Montevideo on a four-year deal.
The 22-year-old striker, who scored 19 goals in 71 games for the Uruguayuan outfit over three years, leaves his hometown club for an undisclosed fee and will be a part of the first-team squad this season.
Martinez is excited by Rodriguez's potential and has compared him to another summer signing - Mason Holgate from Barnsley - though he expects the South American to make an immediate impact on the squad.
"He's a young talent - one of those elite, talented youngsters who we like to bring in," Martinez told the club's official website.
"Mason Holgate is a clear example of a really strong, young English defender and Leandro Rodriguez is a young striker with a real knack of scoring goals.
"But he's much more than that, too. His contribution is a lot more than that and hopefully we can provide a path where he can develop and enjoy his football. If he can do that, clearly that's going to bring goals to the first team.
"He probably won’t [need time with the Under-21s] because he has played enough games with his first team in Uruguay in a really competitive league.
"If you look at the amount of strikers that come through those environments, you don’t get surprised about the quality of these players.
"I am not saying that to put pressure on the boy, but he is a player we can be very much excited about in the future."
De Bruyne is off to Manchester City, confirms Allofs
Wolfsburg sporting director Klaus Allofs has confirmed that Kevin De Bruyne is set to join Manchester City before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
City have pursued the Belgium international throughout the summer transfer window and are believed to have tabled an offer of around £54 million for the former Chelsea playmaker.
Goal understands that De Bruyne was scheduled to undergo his medical on Friday, and Allofs has now revealed that a deal is nearing completion.
“We will complete everything either tonight or tomorrow. De Bruyne is off to Manchester City," he told reporters.
"I explained at the presser that we had begun talks, those talks have progressed. Now only minor issues remain."
De Bruyne made 51 appearances in all competitions for Wolfsburg last season, scoring 16 goals and registering an astonishing 28 assists.
Along with the 24-year-old Wolfsburg are also set to sell Ivan Perisic, with the forward omitted from the club’s squad for their clash with Schalke ahead of a proposed move to Inter.
Wolfsburg sporting director Klaus Allofs has confirmed that Kevin De Bruyne is set to join Manchester City before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
City have pursued the Belgium international throughout the summer transfer window and are believed to have tabled an offer of around £54 million for the former Chelsea playmaker.
Goal understands that De Bruyne was scheduled to undergo his medical on Friday, and Allofs has now revealed that a deal is nearing completion.
“We will complete everything either tonight or tomorrow. De Bruyne is off to Manchester City," he told reporters.
"I explained at the presser that we had begun talks, those talks have progressed. Now only minor issues remain."
De Bruyne made 51 appearances in all competitions for Wolfsburg last season, scoring 16 goals and registering an astonishing 28 assists.
Along with the 24-year-old Wolfsburg are also set to sell Ivan Perisic, with the forward omitted from the club’s squad for their clash with Schalke ahead of a proposed move to Inter.
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