Latest ads
-
Video Content Creator
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
QA Engineer Intern
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
Sell your Land, House on idamata.lk for FREE
- sajith.xp.pk
- Updated:
-
Handmade Character Soft Toys- anil1961
- Updated:
-
Bodim.lk out now !- Manoj Suranga Bandara
- Updated:
..::Football III::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
- Status
Last edited:
Wenger urges Arsenal stars to respond after Chelsea 'nightmare'
Arsene Wenger has urged his Arsenal players to respond following their "nightmare" defeat to Chelsea on Saturday.
The 6-0 loss has left the Gunners seven points behind the Premier League-leading Blues, although Jose Mourinho’s men have played one game more.
Arsenal host Swansea City on Tuesday evening as they attempt to get their title campaign back on track and Wenger insists his players “must show character” after after collapse at Stamford Bridge.
"The game at Stamford Bridge was a nightmare for us and I take full responsibility for it. The players are deeply disappointed, as we all are," Wenger said in an email sent out to Arsenal fans.
"We have to think deeply about it because it is not the first time it has happened in this kind of game. It all went wrong and we failed completely on Saturday because we did not turn up with a performance.
"We felt we prepared properly, but we did not produce what we can, so it is puzzling. After 20 minutes, the game was over and it became a long afternoon.
"That is the most disappointing thing, that we were never in the game. It is puzzling because we were knocked over basically without feeling we had been in the match.
"Now we have to win our next game. That is what we have to focus on. It's vital that we show character and respond in the right manner on Tuesday night against Swansea City.
"We are all determined to put this performance behind us and respond."
Arsene Wenger has urged his Arsenal players to respond following their "nightmare" defeat to Chelsea on Saturday.
The 6-0 loss has left the Gunners seven points behind the Premier League-leading Blues, although Jose Mourinho’s men have played one game more.
Arsenal host Swansea City on Tuesday evening as they attempt to get their title campaign back on track and Wenger insists his players “must show character” after after collapse at Stamford Bridge.
"The game at Stamford Bridge was a nightmare for us and I take full responsibility for it. The players are deeply disappointed, as we all are," Wenger said in an email sent out to Arsenal fans.
"We have to think deeply about it because it is not the first time it has happened in this kind of game. It all went wrong and we failed completely on Saturday because we did not turn up with a performance.
"We felt we prepared properly, but we did not produce what we can, so it is puzzling. After 20 minutes, the game was over and it became a long afternoon.
"That is the most disappointing thing, that we were never in the game. It is puzzling because we were knocked over basically without feeling we had been in the match.
"Now we have to win our next game. That is what we have to focus on. It's vital that we show character and respond in the right manner on Tuesday night against Swansea City.
"We are all determined to put this performance behind us and respond."
Fiorentina forward Gomez ruled out of AC Milan clash
Fiorentina have confirmed that Mario Gomez will not be available for Wednesday's Serie A meeting with AC Milan.
The Germany international suffered a knee injury in Sunday's 1-0 win at Napoli and, although it has not yet been established how long the striker will be out of action for, he will play no part in the midweek meeting with the Rossoneri at the Artemio Franchi or Sunday's trip to Sampdoria.
"Fiorentina announces that the athlete Mario Gomez today [Monday] underwent an orthopaedic examination and diagnostic tests following the reported sprain in his left knee during yesterday's league match," a statement on the Viola's official website read.
"They have detected first-degree collateral damage of the medial ligament.
"The athlete must observe a week of rest and the appropriate treatment before undergoing another clinical and radiological examination."
Gomez had only returned to action last month, after five months on the sidelines with a knee injury. It has been reported that this latest setback could rule him out for at least three weeks in total.
Fiorentina have confirmed that Mario Gomez will not be available for Wednesday's Serie A meeting with AC Milan.
The Germany international suffered a knee injury in Sunday's 1-0 win at Napoli and, although it has not yet been established how long the striker will be out of action for, he will play no part in the midweek meeting with the Rossoneri at the Artemio Franchi or Sunday's trip to Sampdoria.
"Fiorentina announces that the athlete Mario Gomez today [Monday] underwent an orthopaedic examination and diagnostic tests following the reported sprain in his left knee during yesterday's league match," a statement on the Viola's official website read.
"They have detected first-degree collateral damage of the medial ligament.
"The athlete must observe a week of rest and the appropriate treatment before undergoing another clinical and radiological examination."
Gomez had only returned to action last month, after five months on the sidelines with a knee injury. It has been reported that this latest setback could rule him out for at least three weeks in total.
Atletico president Cerezo: Madrid's moaning a waste of energy
Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has advised Real Madrid's players to stop moaning about the officiating in Sunday's Clasico loss to Barcelona, claiming that they are doing nothing other than wasting their own time and energy.
Despite winning and converting a penalty given for a Dani Alves foul that took place outside the area, Cristiano Ronaldo launched a scathing attack on Undiano Mallenco after the game, claiming that the referee, who awarded the Blaugrana two spot-kicks, was "not at the required level".
The Portuguese also hinted at a conspiracy against Madrid, a claim that was supported by team-mate Sergio Ramos, who declared the official's decisions - which included his dismissal for a professional foul - were "pre-meditated".
However, Cerezo, whose side now top the Liga table on account of their superior head-to-head record against Madrid, feels both players would be better of focusing their attention on Wednesday's game at Sevilla.
“Moaning about something which cannot be changed is just a waste of energy – nothing can be done about what happened," the Rojiblancos supremo told Radio Marca.
"I watched last night’s game between Madrid and Barca and if it was difficult for the viewing public to see exactly what happened, how can you start blaming the referee?
"Even after watching the replays, it wasn’t clear.
"On the whole, though, the referees usually get these decisions right."
Meanwhile, Cerezo felt that Barcelona star Lionel Messi once again proved himself the finest player on the planet with his Clasico hat-trick.
“Messi is the best in the world – on the pitch and off it, for how he conducts himself," he stated before jokingly correcting himself. "Of course that’s discounting Atleti’s players, who, in fact, are the best in the world!"
Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has advised Real Madrid's players to stop moaning about the officiating in Sunday's Clasico loss to Barcelona, claiming that they are doing nothing other than wasting their own time and energy.
Despite winning and converting a penalty given for a Dani Alves foul that took place outside the area, Cristiano Ronaldo launched a scathing attack on Undiano Mallenco after the game, claiming that the referee, who awarded the Blaugrana two spot-kicks, was "not at the required level".
The Portuguese also hinted at a conspiracy against Madrid, a claim that was supported by team-mate Sergio Ramos, who declared the official's decisions - which included his dismissal for a professional foul - were "pre-meditated".
However, Cerezo, whose side now top the Liga table on account of their superior head-to-head record against Madrid, feels both players would be better of focusing their attention on Wednesday's game at Sevilla.
“Moaning about something which cannot be changed is just a waste of energy – nothing can be done about what happened," the Rojiblancos supremo told Radio Marca.
"I watched last night’s game between Madrid and Barca and if it was difficult for the viewing public to see exactly what happened, how can you start blaming the referee?
"Even after watching the replays, it wasn’t clear.
"On the whole, though, the referees usually get these decisions right."
Meanwhile, Cerezo felt that Barcelona star Lionel Messi once again proved himself the finest player on the planet with his Clasico hat-trick.
“Messi is the best in the world – on the pitch and off it, for how he conducts himself," he stated before jokingly correcting himself. "Of course that’s discounting Atleti’s players, who, in fact, are the best in the world!"
Mourinho can handle Paris Saint-Germain, says Hazard
Eden Hazard believes Jose Mourinho "is strong enough" to guide Chelsea past Paris Saint-Germain in their Champions League quarter-final tie.
After eliminating Galatasaray in the round of 16, the Blues travel to France for their first leg next Wednesday, before hosting the Ligue 1 champions in the return fixture on April 8.
Hazard, who has scored 16 goals in all competitions this season, also feels PSG's playing style is similar to that of Premier League rivals Arsenal - whom the Blues routed 6-0 on Saturday.
"I think the coach is strong enough to handle these kind of matches. We must be strong defensively," the Belgian told Canal+.
"We know Paris like to play as Arsenal: Paris play good football; Paris dominate their matches. But if we press them ..."
When it came to naming PSG's best player, Hazard argued that while there is one obvious answer to that question, Laurent Blanc's side is packed with world-class talent.
"Who impresses me the most? Ibra [Zlatan Ibrahimovic], of course," the winger enthused.
"But Thiago Motta is also a great player. Yohan [Cabaye] is part of the great players, [Edinson] Cavani also, and their defence is tough."
Eden Hazard believes Jose Mourinho "is strong enough" to guide Chelsea past Paris Saint-Germain in their Champions League quarter-final tie.
After eliminating Galatasaray in the round of 16, the Blues travel to France for their first leg next Wednesday, before hosting the Ligue 1 champions in the return fixture on April 8.
Hazard, who has scored 16 goals in all competitions this season, also feels PSG's playing style is similar to that of Premier League rivals Arsenal - whom the Blues routed 6-0 on Saturday.
"I think the coach is strong enough to handle these kind of matches. We must be strong defensively," the Belgian told Canal+.
"We know Paris like to play as Arsenal: Paris play good football; Paris dominate their matches. But if we press them ..."
When it came to naming PSG's best player, Hazard argued that while there is one obvious answer to that question, Laurent Blanc's side is packed with world-class talent.
"Who impresses me the most? Ibra [Zlatan Ibrahimovic], of course," the winger enthused.
"But Thiago Motta is also a great player. Yohan [Cabaye] is part of the great players, [Edinson] Cavani also, and their defence is tough."
Swansea boss Monk fears Arsenal backlash
Swansea City head coach Garry Monk is expecting an Arsenal backlash when his team travel to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
Both sides head into the game after Premier League defeats, but the Swans boss believes the Gunners' 6-0 humiliation against Chelsea, in Arsene Wenger's 1000th game in charge, makes them a dangerous opponent.
"We expect a reaction from them," Monk told reporters. "They're up there in the league and pushing for a different reason [to Swansea] and we expect a reaction from them.
"That's the message to my boys this morning and we'll try and go up there with the right attitude and put on the right performance to come away with something.
"But it's a very tough game, very tough team and we're in for a very, very hard night."
Swansea have not won in the league since a 3-0 win over rivals Cardiff City at the start of February, leaving them just four points clear of the relegation zone.
Despite their recent slump, Monk is confident his side can end their recent wobble and climb away from the drop zone.
"Their attitude is spot on," he added. "I'm confident with this bunch. They're confident that we can get out of this situation.
"It's not as if we're chasing trying to climb and chasing teams ahead of us in terms of points.
"It's in our own hands and we have to make sure and be very careful we don't make mistakes and cut them out of the games as quickly as possible."
Swansea City head coach Garry Monk is expecting an Arsenal backlash when his team travel to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
Both sides head into the game after Premier League defeats, but the Swans boss believes the Gunners' 6-0 humiliation against Chelsea, in Arsene Wenger's 1000th game in charge, makes them a dangerous opponent.
"We expect a reaction from them," Monk told reporters. "They're up there in the league and pushing for a different reason [to Swansea] and we expect a reaction from them.
"That's the message to my boys this morning and we'll try and go up there with the right attitude and put on the right performance to come away with something.
"But it's a very tough game, very tough team and we're in for a very, very hard night."
Swansea have not won in the league since a 3-0 win over rivals Cardiff City at the start of February, leaving them just four points clear of the relegation zone.
Despite their recent slump, Monk is confident his side can end their recent wobble and climb away from the drop zone.
"Their attitude is spot on," he added. "I'm confident with this bunch. They're confident that we can get out of this situation.
"It's not as if we're chasing trying to climb and chasing teams ahead of us in terms of points.
"It's in our own hands and we have to make sure and be very careful we don't make mistakes and cut them out of the games as quickly as possible."
Hulk scores as Villas-Boas kicks off Zenit career with win
Hulk's double ensured Andre Villas-Boas' Zenit St Petersburg reign got under way with a win as they beat Krylya Sovetov 2-1 on Monday.
The Portuguese took over as Zenit head coach last Thursday and saw his charges keep their title hopes alive as Hulk scored early in both halves at the Stadion Petrovskij.
Villas-Boas was forced to endure some uncomfortable moments, though, as Ibragim Tsallagov pulled a goal back on 54 minutes before Luis Caballero failed to convert two penalties as the visitors let Zenit off the hook. The narrow win keeps Zenit within three points of leaders Lokomotiv Moscow after the pacesetters proved too strong for strugglers Ural on Saturday.
Aleksandr Belozerov's own goal and a Dame N'Doye effort had the hosts two goals to the good after just 14 minutes, before Sergey Tkachev added a third 13 minutes from time, with Belozerov's miserable day completed thanks to a second yellow card late on.Zenit are now firm favourites for a return to the Champions League at least, however, after both Spartak and Dinamo Moscow failed to pick up maximum points.
Ari's hat-trick, along with a goal from Wanderson, saw Spartak comprehensively beaten by Krasnodar on Saturday, while Dinamo were held to a goalless draw by Rubin Kazan 24 hours later.
With Zenit second on 44 points, Moscow neighbours Spartak, Dinamo and CSKA all sit level on 40 in the Europa League spots after the latter comfortably brushed aside bottom-placed Anzhi Makhachkala.
Hulk's double ensured Andre Villas-Boas' Zenit St Petersburg reign got under way with a win as they beat Krylya Sovetov 2-1 on Monday.
The Portuguese took over as Zenit head coach last Thursday and saw his charges keep their title hopes alive as Hulk scored early in both halves at the Stadion Petrovskij.
Villas-Boas was forced to endure some uncomfortable moments, though, as Ibragim Tsallagov pulled a goal back on 54 minutes before Luis Caballero failed to convert two penalties as the visitors let Zenit off the hook. The narrow win keeps Zenit within three points of leaders Lokomotiv Moscow after the pacesetters proved too strong for strugglers Ural on Saturday.
Aleksandr Belozerov's own goal and a Dame N'Doye effort had the hosts two goals to the good after just 14 minutes, before Sergey Tkachev added a third 13 minutes from time, with Belozerov's miserable day completed thanks to a second yellow card late on.Zenit are now firm favourites for a return to the Champions League at least, however, after both Spartak and Dinamo Moscow failed to pick up maximum points.
Ari's hat-trick, along with a goal from Wanderson, saw Spartak comprehensively beaten by Krasnodar on Saturday, while Dinamo were held to a goalless draw by Rubin Kazan 24 hours later.
With Zenit second on 44 points, Moscow neighbours Spartak, Dinamo and CSKA all sit level on 40 in the Europa League spots after the latter comfortably brushed aside bottom-placed Anzhi Makhachkala.
Man City must beware of Utd despite 'difficult' season - Pellegrini
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini warns that his side must not underestimate neighbours Manchester United when they meet at Old Trafford on Tuesday.
The seventh-placed Red Devils head into the game 12 points behind their neighbours, having played two games more in a poor first season under David Moyes, but have recorded two wins in a row against Olympiakos and West Ham.
The Manchester derby is the first of City's three games in hand on Premier League leaders Chelsea, whom they trail by six points, and Pellegrini knows that his side must stay focused despite United's campaign to date.
The 60-year-old told the press: "United have had a difficult season but they're a very good team. We're sure we must have a very good game if we want to win.
"The players are very motivated to try and win the title; it was a very close Premier League from the beginning of the season.
"We are now just focusing on the Premier League. Physically and mentally we are focused on trying to win the title.
"Our target is to add three points but we don't just need to win [on Tuesday] but [also] the next games until the end of the season."
City will once again be without striker Sergio Aguero due to a hamstring injury, while Matija Nastasic is not ready to return following a knee problem.
However, captain Vincent Kompany is set to play at Old Trafford after serving a one-match suspension.
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini warns that his side must not underestimate neighbours Manchester United when they meet at Old Trafford on Tuesday.
The seventh-placed Red Devils head into the game 12 points behind their neighbours, having played two games more in a poor first season under David Moyes, but have recorded two wins in a row against Olympiakos and West Ham.
The Manchester derby is the first of City's three games in hand on Premier League leaders Chelsea, whom they trail by six points, and Pellegrini knows that his side must stay focused despite United's campaign to date.
The 60-year-old told the press: "United have had a difficult season but they're a very good team. We're sure we must have a very good game if we want to win.
"The players are very motivated to try and win the title; it was a very close Premier League from the beginning of the season.
"We are now just focusing on the Premier League. Physically and mentally we are focused on trying to win the title.
"Our target is to add three points but we don't just need to win [on Tuesday] but [also] the next games until the end of the season."
City will once again be without striker Sergio Aguero due to a hamstring injury, while Matija Nastasic is not ready to return following a knee problem.
However, captain Vincent Kompany is set to play at Old Trafford after serving a one-match suspension.
Bebe pining for Man Utd return
Manchester United attacker Bebe is still hopeful that he has a future at Old Trafford, though he admits that the Red Devils have yet to discuss his long-term role with the club.
The Portuguese forward, who joined United in 2010, has spent the season on loan with Pacos de Ferreira in his homeland, where he has enjoyed an excellent season.
The 23-year-old has nine goals in 31 appearances this term and, after a two-goal haul against Arouca on Sunday – which included a superb flick-and-volley – Bebe is now keen to prove his worth back at his parent club.
"I am in good form and I hope to remain this way," the former Portugal Under-21s international told the media.
"I still hope to return to Manchester United but nobody from the club has spoken to me."
Bebe was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson on the recommendation of former assistant Carlos Queiroz just five weeks after the youngster bagged a first professional deal with Vitoria de Guimaraes.
Despite a €9 million price tag, he never made an impact at United, making just seven appearances for the reigning Premier League champions.
Manchester United attacker Bebe is still hopeful that he has a future at Old Trafford, though he admits that the Red Devils have yet to discuss his long-term role with the club.
The Portuguese forward, who joined United in 2010, has spent the season on loan with Pacos de Ferreira in his homeland, where he has enjoyed an excellent season.
The 23-year-old has nine goals in 31 appearances this term and, after a two-goal haul against Arouca on Sunday – which included a superb flick-and-volley – Bebe is now keen to prove his worth back at his parent club.
"I am in good form and I hope to remain this way," the former Portugal Under-21s international told the media.
"I still hope to return to Manchester United but nobody from the club has spoken to me."
Bebe was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson on the recommendation of former assistant Carlos Queiroz just five weeks after the youngster bagged a first professional deal with Vitoria de Guimaraes.
Despite a €9 million price tag, he never made an impact at United, making just seven appearances for the reigning Premier League champions.
'No excuse' with title in Man City's hands, says Zabaleta
Manchester City have "no excuse" not to win the Premier League this season says defender Pablo Zabaleta.
Manuel Pellegrini's men have three games in hand on leaders Chelsea, whom they currently trail by six points, and would therefore guarantee triumph if they were victorious in all of their remaining matches this season.
Zabaleta hopes that City, who are no longer involved in the FA Cup or Champions League, can maintain the form that saw Fulham condemned to a 5-0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday as they chase a second league title in three seasons.
"We just need to keep focused on what we are doing now," he told Sky Sports. "We need to try to win every game but everything is in our hands.
"We don't have an excuse now. We only have Premier League games and we have time to recover well between the games.
"We know it is going to be very tough until the end but we have a great team. We have enough belief to win this title.
"Everything depends on us. Hopefully we can celebrate something at the end of the season."
City face neighbours Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday and the Argentina international knows just how significant a derby victory would be.
"We know how important it is to win the game for the players, the fans, the club," Zabaleta added. "That is why we need to go there and try to win the game.
"It doesn't matter the situation of United [who sit seventh], the game is special for both teams."
Manchester City have "no excuse" not to win the Premier League this season says defender Pablo Zabaleta.
Manuel Pellegrini's men have three games in hand on leaders Chelsea, whom they currently trail by six points, and would therefore guarantee triumph if they were victorious in all of their remaining matches this season.
Zabaleta hopes that City, who are no longer involved in the FA Cup or Champions League, can maintain the form that saw Fulham condemned to a 5-0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday as they chase a second league title in three seasons.
"We just need to keep focused on what we are doing now," he told Sky Sports. "We need to try to win every game but everything is in our hands.
"We don't have an excuse now. We only have Premier League games and we have time to recover well between the games.
"We know it is going to be very tough until the end but we have a great team. We have enough belief to win this title.
"Everything depends on us. Hopefully we can celebrate something at the end of the season."
City face neighbours Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday and the Argentina international knows just how significant a derby victory would be.
"We know how important it is to win the game for the players, the fans, the club," Zabaleta added. "That is why we need to go there and try to win the game.
"It doesn't matter the situation of United [who sit seventh], the game is special for both teams."
Moyes: Van Persie a massive miss to Man Utd
Manchester United manager David Moyes says "no club in Europe" would want to be without Robin van Persie and says the injured Dutchman is a "massive miss" to the team.
Last season's top scorer is unlikely to feature again this campaign after picking up an injury against Olympiakos and, with Van Persie sidelined, Juan Mata and Wayne Rooney combined to good effect to beat West Ham on Saturday.
Moyes, though, says that the former Arsenal man would be coveted by any club in Europe and reiterated how great a loss the 30-year-old will be - though he is confident that Mata has the ability to step up and deliver while Van Persie is out of action.
"There is no club in Europe that wouldn't want Van Persie at centre-forward," the Scot told reporters, "and he is a massive miss. He changed the game against Olympiakos with the goals he scored.
"Mata came here to play two or three positions. We knew that. You're never going to go through a season with no injuries. I mentioned that in one of my early press conferences, that players would get injured and you won't always have Wayne Rooney or Robin van Persie fit for every game.
"That's why you need a squad of players and Juan has come in and played well. He played very well on Saturday – he's done well in all the games but, on Saturday, he was closer to scoring himself and maybe should have done on a couple of occasions."
United take on rivals City at Old Trafford on Tuesday and, with the club languishing in seventh place and having lost five times at home this season already, Moyes is keen to repay fans with a big performance in the derby.
"I think we want to try and perform better in the bigger games than we have done, no doubt about that," the former Everton boss continued, "but we want to win all the games and we won't go into this one any different.
"It's important for us to show the level we have got. We have got the level and we're not as far away as many people would have us. I've got no doubt it will improve but we want to show we're still in there fighting."
'Ronaldo wrong about referee' - Xavi
Xavi has slammed Cristiano Ronaldo for his criticism of the referee in Barcelona's 4-3 win over Real Madrid in Sunday's Clasico.
Real Madrid were 3-2 up at the Bernabeu when they saw Sergio Ramos dismissed for a challenge on Neymar, with Lionel Messi converting two subsequent penalties to complete his hat-trick and secure all three points for Barca.
The result leaves Atletico Madrid top of La Liga by virtue of their superior head-to-head record over Real - with the capital-based clubs just one point clear of Barca - and prompted Blancos star Ronaldo to allege Real were playing "against 12".However, Xavi has defended referee Undiano Mallenco and claimed that the official seemed to make the right call with all three spot kick decisions.
"Cristiano is wrong and his criticism is harsh," the 34-year-old said. "As far as I’m concerned, they were all penalties, including the one from Dani Alves on Cristiano, from what I could see on the pitch."
Despite champions Barca hauling themselves back into the title race, Xavi does not consider there to be any outright top dogs to lift the trophy with nine games to go.
"Atletico are the leaders and they’re a warrior-like team, they're battlers,” he added. "There are no favourites from now on though - there are three teams who can win the title."
Xavi has slammed Cristiano Ronaldo for his criticism of the referee in Barcelona's 4-3 win over Real Madrid in Sunday's Clasico.
Real Madrid were 3-2 up at the Bernabeu when they saw Sergio Ramos dismissed for a challenge on Neymar, with Lionel Messi converting two subsequent penalties to complete his hat-trick and secure all three points for Barca.
The result leaves Atletico Madrid top of La Liga by virtue of their superior head-to-head record over Real - with the capital-based clubs just one point clear of Barca - and prompted Blancos star Ronaldo to allege Real were playing "against 12".However, Xavi has defended referee Undiano Mallenco and claimed that the official seemed to make the right call with all three spot kick decisions.
"Cristiano is wrong and his criticism is harsh," the 34-year-old said. "As far as I’m concerned, they were all penalties, including the one from Dani Alves on Cristiano, from what I could see on the pitch."
Despite champions Barca hauling themselves back into the title race, Xavi does not consider there to be any outright top dogs to lift the trophy with nine games to go.
"Atletico are the leaders and they’re a warrior-like team, they're battlers,” he added. "There are no favourites from now on though - there are three teams who can win the title."
Guarin renews Inter deal
Inter have renewed the contract of attacking midfielder Fredy Guarin until 2017, completing a total turnaround from January when he was nearly sold to Juventus.
The Colombian looked certain to leave San Siro in the winter transfer window and had all-but-agreed to be part of a swap deal with Bianconeri forward Mirko Vucinic.
However, Nerazzurri president Erick Thohir pulled the plug after fan outcry and his long-term commitment to Inter has now been sealed with a one-year contract extension which could see him stay in Milan for at least another three years.
"I am very happy that I have reached another dream," he told Inter's website on Monday. "I will share this with my family, my team-mates and with the people I am closest to.
"Two years have passed since I arrived and it has always been a positive experience, and with every day that has gone by I have learnt a little more. Today I can say that for the next three years I will use those experiences and the positive things I have picked up and make the most of them.
"This is a good moment to say thank you to the president, the coach, the staff, but above all my team-mates and the fans because the faith they have placed in me has been so important.
"Let’s hope I can score to celebrate my new contract, both to help the club to win and to celebrate this special moment."
Guarin, 25, has made 29 appearances for Inter this season, scoring three goals and bagging 12 assists in the process.
Inter have renewed the contract of attacking midfielder Fredy Guarin until 2017, completing a total turnaround from January when he was nearly sold to Juventus.
The Colombian looked certain to leave San Siro in the winter transfer window and had all-but-agreed to be part of a swap deal with Bianconeri forward Mirko Vucinic.
However, Nerazzurri president Erick Thohir pulled the plug after fan outcry and his long-term commitment to Inter has now been sealed with a one-year contract extension which could see him stay in Milan for at least another three years.
"I am very happy that I have reached another dream," he told Inter's website on Monday. "I will share this with my family, my team-mates and with the people I am closest to.
"Two years have passed since I arrived and it has always been a positive experience, and with every day that has gone by I have learnt a little more. Today I can say that for the next three years I will use those experiences and the positive things I have picked up and make the most of them.
"This is a good moment to say thank you to the president, the coach, the staff, but above all my team-mates and the fans because the faith they have placed in me has been so important.
"Let’s hope I can score to celebrate my new contract, both to help the club to win and to celebrate this special moment."
Guarin, 25, has made 29 appearances for Inter this season, scoring three goals and bagging 12 assists in the process.
Prandelli agrees Italy contract extension
Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has agreed in principle to extend his contract with the national side.
The coach has been in charge of the Azzurri since 2010, guiding his charges to the Euro 2012 final two years ago then easing them into the World Cup finals in Brazil.
Last year it seemed that Italy would need a new coach after the World Cup with Prandelli allegedly wanting to return to club football.
However, recent reports suggested he has had a change of heart and the coach confirmed on Monday that he has every intention of sticking with the national set-up until at least the end of Euro 2016.
"At this moment I feel a great satisfaction," Prandelli told ANSA, who claim that the former Fiorentina boss will sign the deal and make it official in the coming weeks.
"I'm proud of the fact that the Italian football association have proposed a two-year renewal to me, regardless of the outcome of the World Cup.
"For this reason I have given my full availability."
This summer Prandelli will be hoping to replicate Italy's efforts eight years ago, when they were surprise winners of the 2006 tournament in Germany under Marcello Lippi's guidance.
Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has agreed in principle to extend his contract with the national side.
The coach has been in charge of the Azzurri since 2010, guiding his charges to the Euro 2012 final two years ago then easing them into the World Cup finals in Brazil.
Last year it seemed that Italy would need a new coach after the World Cup with Prandelli allegedly wanting to return to club football.
However, recent reports suggested he has had a change of heart and the coach confirmed on Monday that he has every intention of sticking with the national set-up until at least the end of Euro 2016.
"At this moment I feel a great satisfaction," Prandelli told ANSA, who claim that the former Fiorentina boss will sign the deal and make it official in the coming weeks.
"I'm proud of the fact that the Italian football association have proposed a two-year renewal to me, regardless of the outcome of the World Cup.
"For this reason I have given my full availability."
This summer Prandelli will be hoping to replicate Italy's efforts eight years ago, when they were surprise winners of the 2006 tournament in Germany under Marcello Lippi's guidance.
Xavi: Barca superior to Madrid
Xavi has laughed off suggestions that the referee favoured Barcelona in Sunday's 4-3 win over Real Madrid and feels the Catalans were superior to their opponent in every area.
Cristiano Ronaldo accused referee Undiano Mallenco of bias toward Barca after Sunday's spectacular encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu, but Xavi has stressed that the focus should be on the Blaugrana's performance rather than on the arbiter's decisions.
"We should not be talking about the ref. Barca were superior to Real Madrid and we have to focus on that," Xavi told reporters.
"We were very comfortable on the ball. We did enough to deserve the win and I believe that it was a spectacular match.
"We’re very content and happy, our morale is very high. We’re one point away from Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid – it will be a great fight for the title.
"In addition, we have the goal-average in our favour. It was an authoritative blow."
The influential midfielder also briefly discussed Lionel Messi's performance, who netted a hat-trick to help the Catalans to victory, but stressed that Sunday's win was a team effort.
"Messi proved that he’s the best, but I’d also highlight the team’s performance."
The Argentina international has now netted 21 goals in 22 appearances in La Liga this term.
Xavi has laughed off suggestions that the referee favoured Barcelona in Sunday's 4-3 win over Real Madrid and feels the Catalans were superior to their opponent in every area.
Cristiano Ronaldo accused referee Undiano Mallenco of bias toward Barca after Sunday's spectacular encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu, but Xavi has stressed that the focus should be on the Blaugrana's performance rather than on the arbiter's decisions.
"We should not be talking about the ref. Barca were superior to Real Madrid and we have to focus on that," Xavi told reporters.
"We were very comfortable on the ball. We did enough to deserve the win and I believe that it was a spectacular match.
"We’re very content and happy, our morale is very high. We’re one point away from Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid – it will be a great fight for the title.
"In addition, we have the goal-average in our favour. It was an authoritative blow."
The influential midfielder also briefly discussed Lionel Messi's performance, who netted a hat-trick to help the Catalans to victory, but stressed that Sunday's win was a team effort.
"Messi proved that he’s the best, but I’d also highlight the team’s performance."
The Argentina international has now netted 21 goals in 22 appearances in La Liga this term.
Klopp: Third not a disaster for Dortmund
Jurgen Klopp has stressed that finishing third in the Bundesliga this season would not be a disaster for Borussia Dortmund ahead of Tuesday's Revierderby.
The Schwarzgelben are one point clear of Schalke ahead of hosting their arch-rivals in midweek at Signal Iduna Park with just eight games to go, with Bayern Munich just one win away from defending the German title.
The Bavarians' dominance means that the race for second place is the best that BVB and Jens Keller's men can hope for and, though Klopp is keen to finish above Schalke, the coach knows that anywhere in the top three guarantees elite European football.
"It is very important to finish well," he told reporters. "Our Champions League qualification depends on it.
"If we're in third place is at the end of the season, it is not a disaster. But our goal is to finish second. There are no points we can give away now.
"It's not important who the favourites are. Both us and Schalke want to win."
Huntelaar has been in fine form for Schalke - scoring six goals in his last three Bundesliga matches - and Klopp insinuated that his knowledge of the Dutchman is dwarfed by his experience with his own star forward Lewandowski, joking that he could publish literature on the Bayern Munich-bound striker.
"Both are proven goalscorers," he added. "I might soon write a book about Lewandowski! But I could only write a little one about Huntelaar."
Klopp also confirmed that Marco Reus would be fit to face their Ruhr rivals, while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is likely to at least be in the squad.
Jurgen Klopp has stressed that finishing third in the Bundesliga this season would not be a disaster for Borussia Dortmund ahead of Tuesday's Revierderby.
The Schwarzgelben are one point clear of Schalke ahead of hosting their arch-rivals in midweek at Signal Iduna Park with just eight games to go, with Bayern Munich just one win away from defending the German title.
The Bavarians' dominance means that the race for second place is the best that BVB and Jens Keller's men can hope for and, though Klopp is keen to finish above Schalke, the coach knows that anywhere in the top three guarantees elite European football.
"It is very important to finish well," he told reporters. "Our Champions League qualification depends on it.
"If we're in third place is at the end of the season, it is not a disaster. But our goal is to finish second. There are no points we can give away now.
"It's not important who the favourites are. Both us and Schalke want to win."
Huntelaar has been in fine form for Schalke - scoring six goals in his last three Bundesliga matches - and Klopp insinuated that his knowledge of the Dutchman is dwarfed by his experience with his own star forward Lewandowski, joking that he could publish literature on the Bayern Munich-bound striker.
"Both are proven goalscorers," he added. "I might soon write a book about Lewandowski! But I could only write a little one about Huntelaar."
Klopp also confirmed that Marco Reus would be fit to face their Ruhr rivals, while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is likely to at least be in the squad.
Hernanes: Inter ready to end season on a high
Inter midfielder Hernanes is optimistic about the Nerazzurri's chances of finishing the 2013-14 campaign on a high, irrespective of their disappointing result against Atalanta at the weekend.
The Giuseppe Meazza side were somewhat surprisingly beaten 2-1 by the Bergamo outfit, yet Hernanes remains confident they can bounce back in the games to come and qualify for European football.
"Physically we’re in good shape and ready for a fantastic end of the season," Hernanes told Inter Channel.
"Against Atalanta it went badly, but we’ll hold our heads up because nothing has changed.
"In football there are days like these, when you walk off the pitch disappointed after having created so much and having played so well.
"Our thoughts are already on Thursday against Udinese. I’m pleased we have another game so soon and we want to do our best."
Inter currently sit fifth in the Serie A table with 47 points from 29 games.
Inter midfielder Hernanes is optimistic about the Nerazzurri's chances of finishing the 2013-14 campaign on a high, irrespective of their disappointing result against Atalanta at the weekend.
The Giuseppe Meazza side were somewhat surprisingly beaten 2-1 by the Bergamo outfit, yet Hernanes remains confident they can bounce back in the games to come and qualify for European football.
"Physically we’re in good shape and ready for a fantastic end of the season," Hernanes told Inter Channel.
"Against Atalanta it went badly, but we’ll hold our heads up because nothing has changed.
"In football there are days like these, when you walk off the pitch disappointed after having created so much and having played so well.
"Our thoughts are already on Thursday against Udinese. I’m pleased we have another game so soon and we want to do our best."
Inter currently sit fifth in the Serie A table with 47 points from 29 games.
- Status
