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Sporting Kansas City 1-4 Manchester City: Kolarov & Boyata on target in comfortable win
Manchester City thrashed Sporting Kansas City 4-1 in a pre-season friendly on Thursday as they continue preparations for their Premier League title defence.
Bruno Zuculini gave Manuel Pellegrini's men an early lead before C.J Sapong equalised for the hosts, though the scores were not level for long, Dedryck Boyata restoring City's lead on the stroke of half-time.
Aleksandar Kolarov then made it 3-1 from the penalty spot before Kelechi Iheanacho rounded off the victory in the 88th minute.
The tone of the contest was set early as Zuculini finished with power and precision into the bottom left corner of Sporting KC's goal.
Peter Vermes' men almost replied immediately, with Sapong's volley from a Soony Saad cross coming back off the crossbar while Dom Dwyer had a goal ruled out due to an offside flag from a free-kick in the 10th minute.
City's attacking game rarely let up, however, with Nigerian teenager Iheanacho forcing Sporting goalkeeper Andy Gruenebaum to tip two long-range shots away in two minutes.
Sporting found a deserved equaliser though, as Benny Feilhaber's cross into the area found Sapong, who had time to take a touch and finish past the stranded Willy Caballero on the half-hour mark.
Stevan Jovetic had a one-on-one chance with Gruenebaum late in the half, only for a superb last-gasp challenge from Collin to deny the Montenegrin forward.
However, he then lost Boyata at a set-piece as City took a lead into the interval.
Both coaches made a number of changes at half-time, Sporting KC bringing in a fresh XI while City introduced Micah Richards for Gael Clichy.
Sal Zizzo was at the heart of multiple Sporting KC chances for an equaliser, sending a diving header wide and also finding Michael Kafari in a dangerous area - but his team-mate was unable to finish under pressure.
And they were made to pay, City going on to seal the victory as Kolarov scored from 12 yards after Scott Sinclair was fouled in the area by Kafari, before Iheanacho capped an impressive display with a goal.
Manchester City thrashed Sporting Kansas City 4-1 in a pre-season friendly on Thursday as they continue preparations for their Premier League title defence.
Bruno Zuculini gave Manuel Pellegrini's men an early lead before C.J Sapong equalised for the hosts, though the scores were not level for long, Dedryck Boyata restoring City's lead on the stroke of half-time.
Aleksandar Kolarov then made it 3-1 from the penalty spot before Kelechi Iheanacho rounded off the victory in the 88th minute.
The tone of the contest was set early as Zuculini finished with power and precision into the bottom left corner of Sporting KC's goal.
Peter Vermes' men almost replied immediately, with Sapong's volley from a Soony Saad cross coming back off the crossbar while Dom Dwyer had a goal ruled out due to an offside flag from a free-kick in the 10th minute.
City's attacking game rarely let up, however, with Nigerian teenager Iheanacho forcing Sporting goalkeeper Andy Gruenebaum to tip two long-range shots away in two minutes.
Sporting found a deserved equaliser though, as Benny Feilhaber's cross into the area found Sapong, who had time to take a touch and finish past the stranded Willy Caballero on the half-hour mark.
Stevan Jovetic had a one-on-one chance with Gruenebaum late in the half, only for a superb last-gasp challenge from Collin to deny the Montenegrin forward.
However, he then lost Boyata at a set-piece as City took a lead into the interval.
Both coaches made a number of changes at half-time, Sporting KC bringing in a fresh XI while City introduced Micah Richards for Gael Clichy.
Sal Zizzo was at the heart of multiple Sporting KC chances for an equaliser, sending a diving header wide and also finding Michael Kafari in a dangerous area - but his team-mate was unable to finish under pressure.
And they were made to pay, City going on to seal the victory as Kolarov scored from 12 yards after Scott Sinclair was fouled in the area by Kafari, before Iheanacho capped an impressive display with a goal.
Liverpool 0-1 Roma: Agger own goal hands Serie A side late win
A late own goal from Daniel Agger gave Roma a 1-0 win over Liverpool in a pre-season friendly at Fenway Park on Thursday.
Both managers named strong sides for the clash in Boston, with summer signings Rickie Lambert and Emre Can both featuring for Liverpool and Ashley Cole in the starting XI for Roma.
And it was the Italian side who came out on top, Agger's touch diverting a corner past Brad Jones in the dying minutes.
However, it is an injury concern that will worry Brendan Rodgers most, with Fabio Borini having to be substituted in the first half following a blow to his shoulder.
Linked with a move to Sunderland, Borini went down under a challenge and landed awkwardly before being substituted in the 12th minute. The Italian was expected to make a £14million move to Sunderland, where he enjoyed a successful campaign on loan last season, but that move could now be in doubt.
One of Rodgers' four signings of the summer so far, Can, replaced Borini just days after suffering a calf injury in Liverpool's win over Preston North End.
But it was Roma's marquee signing, ex-Chelsea man Cole, who created the first chance of a slow first half in the 33rd minute.
The former England left-back crossed from the left for veteran Francesco Totti, who volleyed just wide of Jones' goal from close range.
There was more life to the contest after the break and another Liverpool signing, Rickie Lambert, went close to opening the scoring, as he tested Lukasz Skorupski from just inside the area, with the Polish goalkeeper just up to the task.
Multiple substitutions then disrupted the flow of the match, but Roma forward Antonio Sanabria almost struck when he forced Jones into a save down low to his right in the 89th minute.
Rudi Garcia's men would get the goal they wanted soon after, however, as Agger's touch took a well-worked corner past Jones and into his own goal to earn the Serie A side a late - if slightly fortunate - victory.
A late own goal from Daniel Agger gave Roma a 1-0 win over Liverpool in a pre-season friendly at Fenway Park on Thursday.
Both managers named strong sides for the clash in Boston, with summer signings Rickie Lambert and Emre Can both featuring for Liverpool and Ashley Cole in the starting XI for Roma.
And it was the Italian side who came out on top, Agger's touch diverting a corner past Brad Jones in the dying minutes.
However, it is an injury concern that will worry Brendan Rodgers most, with Fabio Borini having to be substituted in the first half following a blow to his shoulder.
Linked with a move to Sunderland, Borini went down under a challenge and landed awkwardly before being substituted in the 12th minute. The Italian was expected to make a £14million move to Sunderland, where he enjoyed a successful campaign on loan last season, but that move could now be in doubt.
One of Rodgers' four signings of the summer so far, Can, replaced Borini just days after suffering a calf injury in Liverpool's win over Preston North End.
But it was Roma's marquee signing, ex-Chelsea man Cole, who created the first chance of a slow first half in the 33rd minute.
The former England left-back crossed from the left for veteran Francesco Totti, who volleyed just wide of Jones' goal from close range.
There was more life to the contest after the break and another Liverpool signing, Rickie Lambert, went close to opening the scoring, as he tested Lukasz Skorupski from just inside the area, with the Polish goalkeeper just up to the task.
Multiple substitutions then disrupted the flow of the match, but Roma forward Antonio Sanabria almost struck when he forced Jones into a save down low to his right in the 89th minute.
Rudi Garcia's men would get the goal they wanted soon after, however, as Agger's touch took a well-worked corner past Jones and into his own goal to earn the Serie A side a late - if slightly fortunate - victory.
Toronto FC 2-3 Tottenham: Lamela strikes twice as Spurs overcome second-half scare
A late goal from Andros Townsend gave Tottenham a 3-2 victory over FC Toronto in a pre-season friendly on Thursday.
Two goals from a revitalised Erik Lamela gave Spurs a comfortable lead at half-time but Mauricio Pochettino made 10 changes at half-time, replacing every outfield player, and the MLS side subsequently fought back in the second half, as strikes from Andrew Wiedeman and youngster Jordan Hamilton drew Toronto level.
But Spurs would not be denied and Lamela's replacement Townsend – hopeful of once again proving his worth this season following an injury-disrupted 2013-14 – struck in the 85th minute to earn Pochettino's men a hard-fought victory.
Spurs dominated from the outset, controlling possession and made use of their time on the ball when Lamela first struck in the 16th minute.
Christian Eriksen initiated the foray forward, linking with Roberto Soldado, who laid the ball off to the former Roma man, who tucked away a left-footed shot.
Ex-Spurs star Jermain Defoe - leading Toronto's forward line - then beat Spurs' defensive line in the 19th minute, but he was unable to score against his former side as goalkeeper Brad Friedel came off his line to collect.
Lamela doubled Spurs' lead with a near-identical effort in the 40th minute, having begun the move himself.
The 22-year-old found Aaron Lennon in midfield, and the winger subsequently picked out Soldado, who laid the ball on a plate for Lamela to finish from just inside the box.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino substituted every outfield player at half-time, including club debutant Ben Davies, who impressed at left-back after sealing his move from Swansea earlier in the day, while Toronto coach Ryan Nelsen made seven changes.
Wiedeman then pulled a goal back for Toronto in the 65th minute, having been released by Daniel Lovitz following a fine tackle in midfield.
And Toronto were soon level, Hamilton finishing off a fine move with a clever finish from close-range.
But Townsend ensured Tottenham would leave victorious, with a curling finish into the top-right corner as the clock ticked down.
Spurs' win marks the first victory of their tour following a 3-3 draw with Seattle Sounders on Saturday.
A late goal from Andros Townsend gave Tottenham a 3-2 victory over FC Toronto in a pre-season friendly on Thursday.
Two goals from a revitalised Erik Lamela gave Spurs a comfortable lead at half-time but Mauricio Pochettino made 10 changes at half-time, replacing every outfield player, and the MLS side subsequently fought back in the second half, as strikes from Andrew Wiedeman and youngster Jordan Hamilton drew Toronto level.
But Spurs would not be denied and Lamela's replacement Townsend – hopeful of once again proving his worth this season following an injury-disrupted 2013-14 – struck in the 85th minute to earn Pochettino's men a hard-fought victory.
Spurs dominated from the outset, controlling possession and made use of their time on the ball when Lamela first struck in the 16th minute.
Christian Eriksen initiated the foray forward, linking with Roberto Soldado, who laid the ball off to the former Roma man, who tucked away a left-footed shot.
Ex-Spurs star Jermain Defoe - leading Toronto's forward line - then beat Spurs' defensive line in the 19th minute, but he was unable to score against his former side as goalkeeper Brad Friedel came off his line to collect.
Lamela doubled Spurs' lead with a near-identical effort in the 40th minute, having begun the move himself.
The 22-year-old found Aaron Lennon in midfield, and the winger subsequently picked out Soldado, who laid the ball on a plate for Lamela to finish from just inside the box.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino substituted every outfield player at half-time, including club debutant Ben Davies, who impressed at left-back after sealing his move from Swansea earlier in the day, while Toronto coach Ryan Nelsen made seven changes.
Wiedeman then pulled a goal back for Toronto in the 65th minute, having been released by Daniel Lovitz following a fine tackle in midfield.
And Toronto were soon level, Hamilton finishing off a fine move with a clever finish from close-range.
But Townsend ensured Tottenham would leave victorious, with a curling finish into the top-right corner as the clock ticked down.
Spurs' win marks the first victory of their tour following a 3-3 draw with Seattle Sounders on Saturday.
Conte rubbishes Paris Saint-Germain report
Former Juventus boss Antonio Conte has dismissed a report linking him with Paris Saint-Germain.
The 44-year-old coach surprisingly parted company with the Bianconeri last week and it was claimed that he had been approached by the Ligue 1 outfit about usurping Laurent Blanc at the Parc des Princes.
However, Conte, who has only just returned from holiday, insists that neither he, nor anyone representing his interests, has spoken with the French champions.
"I read about alleged contact between PSG and what was described as my 'entourage'," the ex-Italy international told ANSA.
"Not having agents or an entourage, I can say that the alleged news is devoid of any truth and I remain truly amazed by the ease with which this news was published."
Conte, who led Juve to three successive Serie A titles in his three seasons at the helm in Turin, has also been linked with the vacant Italy job.
Former Juventus boss Antonio Conte has dismissed a report linking him with Paris Saint-Germain.
The 44-year-old coach surprisingly parted company with the Bianconeri last week and it was claimed that he had been approached by the Ligue 1 outfit about usurping Laurent Blanc at the Parc des Princes.
However, Conte, who has only just returned from holiday, insists that neither he, nor anyone representing his interests, has spoken with the French champions.
"I read about alleged contact between PSG and what was described as my 'entourage'," the ex-Italy international told ANSA.
"Not having agents or an entourage, I can say that the alleged news is devoid of any truth and I remain truly amazed by the ease with which this news was published."
Conte, who led Juve to three successive Serie A titles in his three seasons at the helm in Turin, has also been linked with the vacant Italy job.
Mathieu: Barcelona the best club in the world
Jeremy Mathieu has hailed Barcelona as "the best club in the world" after completing his move to Camp Nou.
The Blaugrana were reportedly forced to part company with €20 million after weeks of tough negotiations with Valencia over the services of the centre-half.
Consequently, the Frenchman is determined to prove his worth to both his coach, Luis Enrique, and the fans as quickly as possible.
“Barca is the best club in the world and to go is a great opportunity for me," Mathieu confessed.
“I know how the club play their football and I have come to help bring quality to that.”
Mathieu represents the latest addition to a new-look Barcelona squad that has already been strengthened by the likes of Ivan Rakitic and Luis Suarez.
Jeremy Mathieu has hailed Barcelona as "the best club in the world" after completing his move to Camp Nou.
The Blaugrana were reportedly forced to part company with €20 million after weeks of tough negotiations with Valencia over the services of the centre-half.
Consequently, the Frenchman is determined to prove his worth to both his coach, Luis Enrique, and the fans as quickly as possible.
“Barca is the best club in the world and to go is a great opportunity for me," Mathieu confessed.
“I know how the club play their football and I have come to help bring quality to that.”
Mathieu represents the latest addition to a new-look Barcelona squad that has already been strengthened by the likes of Ivan Rakitic and Luis Suarez.
Tottenham snap up Swansea duo Davies & Vorm
Tottenham have completed the signings of left-back Ben Davies and goalkeeper Michel Vorm from Swansea City.
The Wales and Netherlands internationals become new boss Mauricio Pochettino's first signings, with the defender penning a five-year deal and Vorm agreeing a four-year contract.
Davies had been expected to move to Anfield, lured by the appeal of Champions League football, but Spurs gazumped the Reds by promising the 21-year-old a regular starting berth.
The deal was hastened due to both Tottenham and Swansea being on pre-season tours in the United States, with Davies linking up with his new club in Seattle to undergo a medical.
The defender came through the academy at Swansea, displacing Neil Taylor to establish himself at the club's undisputed first-choice left-back two years ago.
Vorm has impressed since moving to the Premier League three years ago from Utrecht, helping the Swans - along with Davies - to the Capital One Cup in 2012-13.
The 30-year-old will now provide cover for first-choice goalkeeper Hugo Lloris at White Hart Lane.
The deal paved the way for Gylfi Sigurdsson to return to the Liberty Stadium, having spent time there on loan from Hoffenheim.
LA Galaxy 0-7 Manchester United: Rooney hits double as Van Gaal seals dominant first win
Louis van Gaal opened his reign at Manchester United manager with a stunning 7-0 win over LA Galaxy as doubles from Wayne Rooney, Reece James and Ashley Young, along with a strike from Danny Welbeck, sealed a comfortable victory.
New recruits Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw were handed starts, while Van Gaal - David Moyes' replacement - opted for a 3-4-1-2 formation that was similar to that used by the Netherlands at the World Cup in Brazil.
The change in system proved effective during the early exchanges and Welbeck got the ball rolling in the 13th minute, benefiting from an advantage following a foul on Juan Mata before striking the ball off the post and into the net from a full 25 yards.
United gained a stranglehold of proceedings in the 42nd minute, when Rooney converted a spot-kick after the referee awarded a penalty for handball against the Galaxy, who are fourth in the Western Conference standings in MLS.
Rooney then put the result beyond doubt on the stroke of half-time, pouncing on some awful defending to bundle the ball over the line for his second of the match.
Van Gaal made wholesale changes at the break, with Darren Fletcher and Herrera the only two players to keep their places in the XI, and it ultimately disrupted the flow of the game.
However, Young cut the ball back in the box and it found its way to James, who scored a similar goal to Welbeck just past the hour-mark, before the 20-year-old struck again with five minutes remaining.
But United were not done there with Young getting in on the action with two goals in as many minutes during the closing stages to add some sheen to the scoreline.
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Congratulations Manchester United!
Modric: Kroos & James deals prove Real Madrid's ambition
Luka Modric believes Real Madrid have underlined their ambition with the summer signings of Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez.
The Germany international joined the European champions this month before Colombia star James moved from Monaco in a sensational €80 deal.
Modric has now set his sights on winning more trophies with his team-mates next term to add to their Champions League and Copa del Rey successes from 2013-14, and expects the new signigns to play a big role in any success.
"First, on a personal level, I hope to have a healthy year and avoid injury," Modric told Marca.
"Last year we had a great season. I hope we can repeat it and do even better [next year]. We have new players on the team – very, very good players.
"Expectations are always high at Real Madrid and I expect the same from the team and myself.
"I saw them [Kroos and Rodriguez] play in the World Cup and, for me, they were two of the best players in the competition.
"They are great players and their arrival shows that Real Madrid has the same ambition."
The Croatia international joined los Blancos in a €35 million deal from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, and has gone on to become an integral member of the team, establishing himself as one of Europe's finest midfielders in 2013-14.
With Modric's current deal with the Santiago Bernabeu outfit expiring in 2017, the midfielder has revealed that he hopes he will have the chance to extend his stay in the Spanish capital - perhaps until he retires.
"As I said before, when I signed for Madrid, it was a dream for me. Never did it cross my mind that I will leave here or anything," he said.
"I am very happy here, my family also enjoy the city and the club. It would be wonderful to finish my career here.
"I have this desire [to stay], but this depends on many things. I still have many years ahead. We'll see what happens. But I want to make clear that I am very happy here, my family is well and I'm enjoying it."
Luka Modric believes Real Madrid have underlined their ambition with the summer signings of Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez.
The Germany international joined the European champions this month before Colombia star James moved from Monaco in a sensational €80 deal.
Modric has now set his sights on winning more trophies with his team-mates next term to add to their Champions League and Copa del Rey successes from 2013-14, and expects the new signigns to play a big role in any success.
"First, on a personal level, I hope to have a healthy year and avoid injury," Modric told Marca.
"Last year we had a great season. I hope we can repeat it and do even better [next year]. We have new players on the team – very, very good players.
"Expectations are always high at Real Madrid and I expect the same from the team and myself.
"I saw them [Kroos and Rodriguez] play in the World Cup and, for me, they were two of the best players in the competition.
"They are great players and their arrival shows that Real Madrid has the same ambition."
The Croatia international joined los Blancos in a €35 million deal from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, and has gone on to become an integral member of the team, establishing himself as one of Europe's finest midfielders in 2013-14.
With Modric's current deal with the Santiago Bernabeu outfit expiring in 2017, the midfielder has revealed that he hopes he will have the chance to extend his stay in the Spanish capital - perhaps until he retires.
"As I said before, when I signed for Madrid, it was a dream for me. Never did it cross my mind that I will leave here or anything," he said.
"I am very happy here, my family also enjoy the city and the club. It would be wonderful to finish my career here.
"I have this desire [to stay], but this depends on many things. I still have many years ahead. We'll see what happens. But I want to make clear that I am very happy here, my family is well and I'm enjoying it."
Santos put off Robinho signing by wage demands
Robinho's wage demands could scupper Santos' efforts to sign the forward from AC Milan this summer, the club's vice-president has admitted.
The attacker's future at the Italian giants hangs in the balance, with several clubs, including MLS outfit Orlando City and South American clubs Cruzeiro and Atletico Mineiro, all keen on a deal for the 30-year-old.
Robinho won two league titles with Santos earlier in his career before making the move to Spanish giants Real Madrid in 2005, and Odilio Rodrigues says the club would relish the chance to bring Robinho back should they reach a financial compromise.
"Robinho has a strong connection with the city. Here he is an idol, we all want to see him," Rodrigues told Globoesporte.
"There was contact with his lawyer, but the negotiation is difficult. Robinho wants Santos, however, it is difficult for us to meet his financial demands.
"It's a difficult negotiation, but not impossible."
After a three-year spell with Real Madrid, Robinho spent two years at Premier League side Manchester City before eventually signing for Milan in 2010 - where he has scored 32 goals for the San Siro outfit.
Robinho's wage demands could scupper Santos' efforts to sign the forward from AC Milan this summer, the club's vice-president has admitted.
The attacker's future at the Italian giants hangs in the balance, with several clubs, including MLS outfit Orlando City and South American clubs Cruzeiro and Atletico Mineiro, all keen on a deal for the 30-year-old.
Robinho won two league titles with Santos earlier in his career before making the move to Spanish giants Real Madrid in 2005, and Odilio Rodrigues says the club would relish the chance to bring Robinho back should they reach a financial compromise.
"Robinho has a strong connection with the city. Here he is an idol, we all want to see him," Rodrigues told Globoesporte.
"There was contact with his lawyer, but the negotiation is difficult. Robinho wants Santos, however, it is difficult for us to meet his financial demands.
"It's a difficult negotiation, but not impossible."
After a three-year spell with Real Madrid, Robinho spent two years at Premier League side Manchester City before eventually signing for Milan in 2010 - where he has scored 32 goals for the San Siro outfit.
Bale: Real Madrid want to win every trophy next season
Real Madrid star Gareth Bale has set his sights on a clean sweep of trophies in the 2014-15 season.
Los Blancos clinched the double last term after winning their 10th Champions League crown over city rivals Atletico Madrid and also lifted the Copa del Rey at Barcelona's expense, with Bale scoring a stunning winning goal.
Atletico claimed the domestic title, however, and Bale admits his side are desperate to win every trophy available in the coming campaign - beginning with the European Supercup on the Wales star's home soil next month.
"We enter six competitions and we want to win every one," Bale said."That would be amazing. We are hungrier than ever.
"No team has retained the Champions League so we want to do that."And there is a special touch for me because the Super Cup (against Sevilla) is in my home town (Cardiff). Hopefully we can do the job and get the trophy."
Real have signalled their intent to win more titles next season with the signings of World Cup-winner Toni Kroos and Colombia star James Rodriguez this summer.
The latter was unveiled as a new Blancos player this week after completing his move from Monaco in a deal reported to be worth €80 million.
With Uruguay star Luis Suarez having also joined Barcelona from Liverpool earlier this summer, Bale believes that the influx of some of football's best players to Spain shows the strength of the top flight in the country.
"The Spanish league is the most exciting and the world's top players play there," he said."Barcelona or Real Madrid are always there, near the Champions League final or winning it.
"The Premier League is a great league but we are attracting the best players to La Liga."It is great to be involved in it."
Real kick off their pre-season when they play Inter in the International Champions Cup tournament in California on July 27.
Real Madrid star Gareth Bale has set his sights on a clean sweep of trophies in the 2014-15 season.
Los Blancos clinched the double last term after winning their 10th Champions League crown over city rivals Atletico Madrid and also lifted the Copa del Rey at Barcelona's expense, with Bale scoring a stunning winning goal.
Atletico claimed the domestic title, however, and Bale admits his side are desperate to win every trophy available in the coming campaign - beginning with the European Supercup on the Wales star's home soil next month.
"We enter six competitions and we want to win every one," Bale said."That would be amazing. We are hungrier than ever.
"No team has retained the Champions League so we want to do that."And there is a special touch for me because the Super Cup (against Sevilla) is in my home town (Cardiff). Hopefully we can do the job and get the trophy."
Real have signalled their intent to win more titles next season with the signings of World Cup-winner Toni Kroos and Colombia star James Rodriguez this summer.
The latter was unveiled as a new Blancos player this week after completing his move from Monaco in a deal reported to be worth €80 million.
With Uruguay star Luis Suarez having also joined Barcelona from Liverpool earlier this summer, Bale believes that the influx of some of football's best players to Spain shows the strength of the top flight in the country.
"The Spanish league is the most exciting and the world's top players play there," he said."Barcelona or Real Madrid are always there, near the Champions League final or winning it.
"The Premier League is a great league but we are attracting the best players to La Liga."It is great to be involved in it."
Real kick off their pre-season when they play Inter in the International Champions Cup tournament in California on July 27.
Reus recovery 'going well', say Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund winger Marco Reus is recovering well from ankle ligament damage and should return to action as expected in September, the club's sporting director has confirmed.Reus was ruled out of Germany's triumphant World Cup campaign after tearing his ankle ligaments in their final warm-up friendly against Armenia.
It was initially hoped that the 25-year-old would return to fitness for Dortmund's pre-season training, but further tests confirmed that the Germany international would be out of action for three months and would subsequently miss the start of the 2014-15 Bundesliga season.
Dortmund sporting director, Michael Zorc, has now revealed that, barring setbacks, Reus' recovery is on track, meaning he could feature for Germany in their internationals against World Cup runners-up Argentina on September 3 and Scotland four days later.
"It [his recovery] is going well", Zorc told Germany magazine, Kicker.
"We have to see how he withstands the pressure [on his foot]."Reus won the German players' player of the year award for his Bundesliga performances last term, and scored 23 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions for Dortmund.
Borussia Dortmund winger Marco Reus is recovering well from ankle ligament damage and should return to action as expected in September, the club's sporting director has confirmed.Reus was ruled out of Germany's triumphant World Cup campaign after tearing his ankle ligaments in their final warm-up friendly against Armenia.
It was initially hoped that the 25-year-old would return to fitness for Dortmund's pre-season training, but further tests confirmed that the Germany international would be out of action for three months and would subsequently miss the start of the 2014-15 Bundesliga season.
Dortmund sporting director, Michael Zorc, has now revealed that, barring setbacks, Reus' recovery is on track, meaning he could feature for Germany in their internationals against World Cup runners-up Argentina on September 3 and Scotland four days later.
"It [his recovery] is going well", Zorc told Germany magazine, Kicker.
"We have to see how he withstands the pressure [on his foot]."Reus won the German players' player of the year award for his Bundesliga performances last term, and scored 23 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions for Dortmund.
Arsenal redouble Schneiderlin pursuit as battle with Tottenham intensifies
Arsenal have redoubled their efforts to sign Morgan Schneiderlin from Southampton in a bid to beat off stiff competition for the midfielder's signature from London rivals Tottenham.
The France international is now regarded as this summer's No.1 target at both clubs, with the lure of playing under former Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino at Spurs proving a strong temptation for the 24-year-old.
However, Arsenal have outlined a salary package through intermediaries which, combined with the possibility of Champions League football and greater trophy-winning potential, could prove decisive.
Arsene Wenger has stepped up his interest after the Gunners opened preliminary talks with the Saints over a move for Schneiderlin.
The Saints are playing hardball over any deal for the Frenchman following the departures of Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert this summer, as well as Pochettino. They rate the midfielder at €23m, although the north London rivals value the 24-year-old at the €19m mark.
Arsenal are now concentrating their efforts on a deal for Schneiderlin, although they also maintain an interest in Bayer Leverkusen's Lars Bender. The club are no longer pursuing Real Madrid's Sami Khedira due to his demans for a €253,000-a-week basic salary.
Meanwhile, Spurs are exploring the possibility of selling a central midfielder in the squad to free up space for Schneiderlin and the Frenchman clearly holds the club - and Pochettino - in high regard, telling Goal in June: "With the quality Tottenham have, Mauricio Pochettino will get the best out of each player.
"He came in and made Southampton play and now Tottenham have a great future.
"He improved me very much. He improved the whole squad and improved me as a player. He's a great coach and good man."
However, encouragingly for Arsenal, the player has also spoken of his desire to play at the highest level, saying: "Everyone has ambitions, everyone has his own future in his hands, so we'll see. Every player wants to play on big occasions."
Schneiderlin has been closely trailed by the Gunners over the last two seasons since Southampton were promoted to the Premier League.
He has been a key performer for the Saints following a move from Strasbourg in 2008 and was drafted into the France squad for the World Cup as a late replacement for the injured Clement Grenier.
Arsenal have redoubled their efforts to sign Morgan Schneiderlin from Southampton in a bid to beat off stiff competition for the midfielder's signature from London rivals Tottenham.
The France international is now regarded as this summer's No.1 target at both clubs, with the lure of playing under former Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino at Spurs proving a strong temptation for the 24-year-old.
However, Arsenal have outlined a salary package through intermediaries which, combined with the possibility of Champions League football and greater trophy-winning potential, could prove decisive.
Arsene Wenger has stepped up his interest after the Gunners opened preliminary talks with the Saints over a move for Schneiderlin.
The Saints are playing hardball over any deal for the Frenchman following the departures of Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert this summer, as well as Pochettino. They rate the midfielder at €23m, although the north London rivals value the 24-year-old at the €19m mark.
Arsenal are now concentrating their efforts on a deal for Schneiderlin, although they also maintain an interest in Bayer Leverkusen's Lars Bender. The club are no longer pursuing Real Madrid's Sami Khedira due to his demans for a €253,000-a-week basic salary.
Meanwhile, Spurs are exploring the possibility of selling a central midfielder in the squad to free up space for Schneiderlin and the Frenchman clearly holds the club - and Pochettino - in high regard, telling Goal in June: "With the quality Tottenham have, Mauricio Pochettino will get the best out of each player.
"He came in and made Southampton play and now Tottenham have a great future.
"He improved me very much. He improved the whole squad and improved me as a player. He's a great coach and good man."
However, encouragingly for Arsenal, the player has also spoken of his desire to play at the highest level, saying: "Everyone has ambitions, everyone has his own future in his hands, so we'll see. Every player wants to play on big occasions."
Schneiderlin has been closely trailed by the Gunners over the last two seasons since Southampton were promoted to the Premier League.
He has been a key performer for the Saints following a move from Strasbourg in 2008 and was drafted into the France squad for the World Cup as a late replacement for the injured Clement Grenier.
Suarez ban to be reduced by CAS
Luis Suarez could have his four-month ban for biting reduced, allowing the Barcelona striker to play in the club's first La Liga game of the 2014-15 season.
The 27-year-old was handed a nine-match international ban and was suspended for four months from "any football-related activities" by Fifa in June after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini during a World Cup group stage match in Brazil.
After having an initial appeal against the punishment rejected by football's world governing body, Suarez ultimately completed an €88 million move to Barcelona - though the Catalan giants were unable to formally present their new acquisition because of the ban.
Barcelona decided to take an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after the player's lawyer described the punishment as "draconian, totalitarian and fascist".
And a source from CAS has now told Goal that, while Suarez's ban from international football will remain in place, his four-month suspension is likely to be reduced – meaning that he will be able to begin the new Primera Liga campaign for Barca.
"Now that the case has arrived at CAS, it is very likely that we will reduce the penalty," the source confirmed.
"The ban would only apply to the Uruguay national team and not to Barcelona."
Arbitrators at CAS are believed to agree with the consensus at Barcelona that Fifa's overall sanction against Suarez is excessive.
Under the terms of the suspension, the Uruguay star is unable to train with his new team-mates and cannot step foot inside Camp Nou.
Suarez apologised for his actions following the incident in Brazil, which also resulted in the player being fined 100,000 Swiss Francs (€82,000) by Fifa.
Luis Suarez could have his four-month ban for biting reduced, allowing the Barcelona striker to play in the club's first La Liga game of the 2014-15 season.
The 27-year-old was handed a nine-match international ban and was suspended for four months from "any football-related activities" by Fifa in June after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini during a World Cup group stage match in Brazil.
After having an initial appeal against the punishment rejected by football's world governing body, Suarez ultimately completed an €88 million move to Barcelona - though the Catalan giants were unable to formally present their new acquisition because of the ban.
Barcelona decided to take an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after the player's lawyer described the punishment as "draconian, totalitarian and fascist".
And a source from CAS has now told Goal that, while Suarez's ban from international football will remain in place, his four-month suspension is likely to be reduced – meaning that he will be able to begin the new Primera Liga campaign for Barca.
"Now that the case has arrived at CAS, it is very likely that we will reduce the penalty," the source confirmed.
"The ban would only apply to the Uruguay national team and not to Barcelona."
Arbitrators at CAS are believed to agree with the consensus at Barcelona that Fifa's overall sanction against Suarez is excessive.
Under the terms of the suspension, the Uruguay star is unable to train with his new team-mates and cannot step foot inside Camp Nou.
Suarez apologised for his actions following the incident in Brazil, which also resulted in the player being fined 100,000 Swiss Francs (€82,000) by Fifa.
Rodgers: Liverpool won't waste Suarez fee on star names
Brendan Rodgers is adamant that Liverpool will not be held to ransom by other clubs as he looks to complete "strategic signings" and not just big-name players.
The Reds have been linked with several players in the close-season and have already spent around €75 million for Adam Lallana, Lazar Markovic, Emre Can and Rickie Lambert.
Suarez has left for Barcelona for €88m, giving Liverpool more money to spend should they choose to, but Rodgers insists that he will refuse to buy players should they be overpriced.
"If clubs sense there is an opportunity to get more out of us, it won't happen," he told reporters. "We are very unified in how we work in that way. We have a value for a player and most clubs have been sensible.
"There has been a lot of work. There's hardly been a break for the staff over the off season, flying through Europe, speaking with players and looking at targets.
"But generally the prices we've paid was the value we put on them. I would not want the club to pay more than a value just to get someone in."
Rodgers recently revealed that the money gained from the departure of Suarez is yet to be touched despite heavy investment already this summer and having been linked with the likes of Arturo Vidal and Marco Reus.
But the manager says that the club will only sign players who will improve the squad rather than blindly going for "names" and feels no obligation to empty the coffers during the transfer window.
"Our signings are strategic signings. They are not just names," Rodgers added. "They must all fit into the purpose of the team but, of course, we want them to make a contribution. If that means we do not spend all the money or the net spend is the same then so be it.
"The character is important. It is not just about the player but the right type of person. I want players that are committed to the cause to make Liverpool the best they can be. I want players resting when they should be resting, training hard and working hard and focusing on their life as footballers.
"The types we have brought in are those types, as well as those we already have in the squad who have been brilliant. It is footballing qualities and also human qualities we want."
Brendan Rodgers is adamant that Liverpool will not be held to ransom by other clubs as he looks to complete "strategic signings" and not just big-name players.
The Reds have been linked with several players in the close-season and have already spent around €75 million for Adam Lallana, Lazar Markovic, Emre Can and Rickie Lambert.
Suarez has left for Barcelona for €88m, giving Liverpool more money to spend should they choose to, but Rodgers insists that he will refuse to buy players should they be overpriced.
"If clubs sense there is an opportunity to get more out of us, it won't happen," he told reporters. "We are very unified in how we work in that way. We have a value for a player and most clubs have been sensible.
"There has been a lot of work. There's hardly been a break for the staff over the off season, flying through Europe, speaking with players and looking at targets.
"But generally the prices we've paid was the value we put on them. I would not want the club to pay more than a value just to get someone in."
Rodgers recently revealed that the money gained from the departure of Suarez is yet to be touched despite heavy investment already this summer and having been linked with the likes of Arturo Vidal and Marco Reus.
But the manager says that the club will only sign players who will improve the squad rather than blindly going for "names" and feels no obligation to empty the coffers during the transfer window.
"Our signings are strategic signings. They are not just names," Rodgers added. "They must all fit into the purpose of the team but, of course, we want them to make a contribution. If that means we do not spend all the money or the net spend is the same then so be it.
"The character is important. It is not just about the player but the right type of person. I want players that are committed to the cause to make Liverpool the best they can be. I want players resting when they should be resting, training hard and working hard and focusing on their life as footballers.
"The types we have brought in are those types, as well as those we already have in the squad who have been brilliant. It is footballing qualities and also human qualities we want."
Manchester United will play 3-4-1-2, says Van Gaal
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has confirmed that he will adopt a three-man defence for the upcoming Premier League season.
The Red Devils beat LA Galaxy 7-0 in their first pre-season match of the summer, with Jonny Evans, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling all starting in a back line similar to Van Gaal's Netherlands team at the World Cup.
New recruit Luke Shaw and Ecuador international Antonio Valencia operated as wing-backs and the new boss explained that it was a sign of things to come.
"We introduced a new system that we have only played two times on the training pitch 11 versus 11," the Dutchman told reporters post-game, "but the boys are willing to pick up the information. It is fantastic how they have performed.
"Last week, 10 players who played [on Wednesday night] were not even in our training complex.
"When you want to change a system, you must start at once. We don't have time to prepare for other things.
"The other system they can play is 4-3-3 and they have played it for many years. I can change back if the system doesn't work. With the quality of the players we have, I can play 4-3-3 with three strikers on the bench but I want to play with two strikers."
Van Gaal believes that United's performance against the Galaxy will help instil confidence in his players as they attempt to become more familiar with the new system.
"It was not just the goals but the beautiful attacks," enthused the 62-year-old.
"I never go back, I always want to see the future. When I see my team playing a new system, it is better to win 7-0 than to lose because the players will then doubt the system but now I don't have that problem."
However, Van Gaal also acknowledged that his squad lack "balance", with the likes of Juan Mata and Shinji Kagawa offering similar characteristics.
"We have four No.10s so the selection is not balanced, in my eyes," he added. "I have decided to play this system because of the quality of the players but, if we lose, I can change back to another system."
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