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Atletico Madrid 3-1 Levante: Griezmann double puts pressure on Madrid
Antoine Griezmann was the star of the show as his two goals got Atletico Madrid's year off to a flyer as they beat Levante 3-1.
Griezmann broke the deadlock in the 18th minute with a towering header from Guilherme Siqueira's cross and doubled the tally shortly after the restart by just nodding over the line after Diego Marino kept out Mario Mandzukic's initial effort.
Nabir El Zhar gave the home side a fright when he pulled a goal back with 62 minutes on the clock, but Diego Godin's header with eight minutes of normal time remaining secured Atletico all three points.
Atleti's victory adds to the feel-good factor at the Calderon born out of the announcement earlier this week that Fernando Torres, who took a watching brief from the stands, is to re-join the club.
Diego Simeone's side move level on points with second-placed Barcelona and are now just one point adrift of leaders and city rivals Real Madrid, although Carlo Ancelotti's side have two games in hand.
Atleti enjoyed a near monopoly of possession in the opening stages and Arda Turan had a goal ruled out in the 12th minute as Godin - who nodded the ball into his path - was offside.Mandzukic was next to go close as he headed Siqueira's cross from the left wide when off balance.
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when another fine Siqueira delivery picked out Griezmann, who planted a firm header past a helpless Diego Marino at the near post.
Atleti continued to turn the screw and Turan flashed an effort just over from 25 yards before Mandzukic also had a goal chalked off at the near post for what appeared to be offside, although replays also showed the Croatian had handled the ball.
Levante then had Diego Marino to thank for keeping the score at 1-0 when he produced a superb point-blank stop from his own defender Loukas Vyntra, who diverted Koke's cross goalwards.
Diego Marino was desperately unlucky to be beaten for the second goal in the 47th minute. The goalkeeper made a smart stop from Mandzukic's header before leaping back across goal to get a hand to Griezmann's follow-up, but the ball was just over the line.More good work from Mandzukic and Griezmann led to Tiago almost adding a third with a curling effort that was deflected wide.
Levante, who had offered little going forward, found a way back into the game in the 62nd minute.The hosts scrambled a corner to safety, but their defence was left static when Victor Casadesus drilled the ball back into the area and El Zhar - who had been on the pitch for just two minutes - got the final touch past Miguel Angel Moya.
However, Godin put the game beyond doubt in the 82nd minute with a looped header from Tiago's cross from the left flank as Atleti started the new year with a comfortable win.
Antoine Griezmann was the star of the show as his two goals got Atletico Madrid's year off to a flyer as they beat Levante 3-1.
Griezmann broke the deadlock in the 18th minute with a towering header from Guilherme Siqueira's cross and doubled the tally shortly after the restart by just nodding over the line after Diego Marino kept out Mario Mandzukic's initial effort.
Nabir El Zhar gave the home side a fright when he pulled a goal back with 62 minutes on the clock, but Diego Godin's header with eight minutes of normal time remaining secured Atletico all three points.
Atleti's victory adds to the feel-good factor at the Calderon born out of the announcement earlier this week that Fernando Torres, who took a watching brief from the stands, is to re-join the club.
Diego Simeone's side move level on points with second-placed Barcelona and are now just one point adrift of leaders and city rivals Real Madrid, although Carlo Ancelotti's side have two games in hand.
Atleti enjoyed a near monopoly of possession in the opening stages and Arda Turan had a goal ruled out in the 12th minute as Godin - who nodded the ball into his path - was offside.Mandzukic was next to go close as he headed Siqueira's cross from the left wide when off balance.
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when another fine Siqueira delivery picked out Griezmann, who planted a firm header past a helpless Diego Marino at the near post.
Atleti continued to turn the screw and Turan flashed an effort just over from 25 yards before Mandzukic also had a goal chalked off at the near post for what appeared to be offside, although replays also showed the Croatian had handled the ball.
Levante then had Diego Marino to thank for keeping the score at 1-0 when he produced a superb point-blank stop from his own defender Loukas Vyntra, who diverted Koke's cross goalwards.
Diego Marino was desperately unlucky to be beaten for the second goal in the 47th minute. The goalkeeper made a smart stop from Mandzukic's header before leaping back across goal to get a hand to Griezmann's follow-up, but the ball was just over the line.More good work from Mandzukic and Griezmann led to Tiago almost adding a third with a curling effort that was deflected wide.
Levante, who had offered little going forward, found a way back into the game in the 62nd minute.The hosts scrambled a corner to safety, but their defence was left static when Victor Casadesus drilled the ball back into the area and El Zhar - who had been on the pitch for just two minutes - got the final touch past Miguel Angel Moya.
However, Godin put the game beyond doubt in the 82nd minute with a looped header from Tiago's cross from the left flank as Atleti started the new year with a comfortable win.
Tranmere 2-6 Swansea: Swans cruise into round four
Swansea City recorded a comfortable 6-2 victory over Tranmere Rovers in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
Some pundits had picked out this fixture as one of the favourites to produce an upset, but goals from Nathan Dyer, Tom Carroll, Modou Barrow, Wayne Routledge and a Bafetimbi Gomis brace ensured the Premier League outfit progressed at the expense of their League Two opponents.
Swansea lost 4-1 at Liverpool on their last trip to Merseyside in the Premier League on Monday, but never looked like suffering another nightmare on the other side of the river, although there was one unwelcome reminder of that defeat for goalkeeper Gerhard Tremmel, whose failed clearance led to Tranmere's first goal courtesy of Max Power.
Dyer's opener after 34 minutes capped a period of total domination, before Tottenham loanee Carroll scored his first goal for the club four minutes after the break.
Barrow - making his first start in a Swansea shirt - added a third just before the hour mark, but Power's fortuitous effort pulled one back in the 70th minute.
Gomis struck 13 minutes from time to leave Tranmere with a mountain to climb, and Routledge and Gomis completed the scoring after Cole Stockton had briefly given Tranmere hope with an 83rd-minute header.
Garry Monk made nine changes from the side that drew 1-1 at QPR on New Year's Day, while Tranmere boss Micky Adams - who had a 13-day stint in charge of Swansea in 1997 - brought Michael Ihiekwe and Stockton into his starting XI.
Despite totally dominating possession for the opening 10 minutes, Swansea had to wait until just after the half-hour mark to break the deadlock through stand-in captain Dyer.
Dyer cut in from the left and found the net at the second time of asking after seeing his first shot blocked in the penalty area, although there were suspicions of handball against the Swansea winger.
It was not until the 36th minute that Tranmere managed to register a shot on target - Power failing to live up to his name as he sent a limp effort straight at Swansea stopper Tremmel from 20 yards.
Having shown glimpses of getting back into the match towards the end of the first half, Tranmere found themselves two down four minutes into the second.
Barrow showed great patience on the right wing and eventually picked out the perfect pass for Carroll, who touched the ball beyond the last defender before tucking under Owain Fon Williams in front of the travelling fans.
Barrow made sure of the win when a Gomis cross left him with a simple tap-in to make it 3-0 after 58 minutes.
Having seen goalkeeping colleague Lukasz Fabianski left red-faced when an attempted clearance rebounded into the net off Adam Lallana at Liverpool on Monday, Tremmel suffered the same humiliation when Power pulled a goal back for the hosts in similar fashion to the England international.
Any hope gained by the home side appeared dashed when Gomis sent a low effort beyond Williams from the centre of the penalty area, but Stockton headed a second for Tranmere to lift the noise levels again among the home fans.
However, substitute Routledge slotted home two minutes later to put the result beyond doubt, and Gomis toyed with the Tranmere defence before tucking in a sixth at the death.
Swansea City recorded a comfortable 6-2 victory over Tranmere Rovers in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
Some pundits had picked out this fixture as one of the favourites to produce an upset, but goals from Nathan Dyer, Tom Carroll, Modou Barrow, Wayne Routledge and a Bafetimbi Gomis brace ensured the Premier League outfit progressed at the expense of their League Two opponents.
Swansea lost 4-1 at Liverpool on their last trip to Merseyside in the Premier League on Monday, but never looked like suffering another nightmare on the other side of the river, although there was one unwelcome reminder of that defeat for goalkeeper Gerhard Tremmel, whose failed clearance led to Tranmere's first goal courtesy of Max Power.
Dyer's opener after 34 minutes capped a period of total domination, before Tottenham loanee Carroll scored his first goal for the club four minutes after the break.
Barrow - making his first start in a Swansea shirt - added a third just before the hour mark, but Power's fortuitous effort pulled one back in the 70th minute.
Gomis struck 13 minutes from time to leave Tranmere with a mountain to climb, and Routledge and Gomis completed the scoring after Cole Stockton had briefly given Tranmere hope with an 83rd-minute header.
Garry Monk made nine changes from the side that drew 1-1 at QPR on New Year's Day, while Tranmere boss Micky Adams - who had a 13-day stint in charge of Swansea in 1997 - brought Michael Ihiekwe and Stockton into his starting XI.
Despite totally dominating possession for the opening 10 minutes, Swansea had to wait until just after the half-hour mark to break the deadlock through stand-in captain Dyer.
Dyer cut in from the left and found the net at the second time of asking after seeing his first shot blocked in the penalty area, although there were suspicions of handball against the Swansea winger.
It was not until the 36th minute that Tranmere managed to register a shot on target - Power failing to live up to his name as he sent a limp effort straight at Swansea stopper Tremmel from 20 yards.
Having shown glimpses of getting back into the match towards the end of the first half, Tranmere found themselves two down four minutes into the second.
Barrow showed great patience on the right wing and eventually picked out the perfect pass for Carroll, who touched the ball beyond the last defender before tucking under Owain Fon Williams in front of the travelling fans.
Barrow made sure of the win when a Gomis cross left him with a simple tap-in to make it 3-0 after 58 minutes.
Having seen goalkeeping colleague Lukasz Fabianski left red-faced when an attempted clearance rebounded into the net off Adam Lallana at Liverpool on Monday, Tremmel suffered the same humiliation when Power pulled a goal back for the hosts in similar fashion to the England international.
Any hope gained by the home side appeared dashed when Gomis sent a low effort beyond Williams from the centre of the penalty area, but Stockton headed a second for Tranmere to lift the noise levels again among the home fans.
However, substitute Routledge slotted home two minutes later to put the result beyond doubt, and Gomis toyed with the Tranmere defence before tucking in a sixth at the death.
West Brom 7-0 Gateshead: Berahino nets four as Pulis era starts with a bang
Saido Berahino netted four goals as West Brom crushed Gateshead 7-0 to book their place in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday afternoon.
Highly-rated striker Berahino, who has been linked with a move away from The Hawthorns, enhanced his value as he took his tally to 13 goals for the season with four clinical finishes, while Victor Anichebe, Chris Brunt and James Morrison also found the net.
It was not all plain sailing for the Premier League strugglers, as they were second best for much of the first half but goals from Berahino and the recalled Anichebe just before the break stunned the Conference National side.
New head coach Pulis, who was appointed as Alan Irvine's successor on New Year's Day and was given a rapturous reception from Albion fans, planned to watch the game from the stands but he was soon his usual animated self on the touchline as his side were lacklustre in the opening period.
Ruthless Albion moved up a gear in the second half and taught Gateshead a lesson as they struck five times to secure safe passage to the fourth round.
Gateshead looked very much at home as they started with confidence and Michael Rankine had a chance to put them in front after 12 minutes when Albion failed to deal with a corner but the striker's attempt from close range was straight at Boaz Myhill.
A disgruntled Pulis was clearly not impressed with what he saw as he came down from the stands to bellow out orders from the touchline after only 15 minutes.
Pulis' words failed to spark Albion into life and John Oster spurned a good opportunity to open the scoring when Matty Pattison cut the ball back for the former Everton man, but he blazed over the crossbar when unmarked in the penalty area.
The underdogs were made to pay for a lack of clinical finishing when Berahino struck three minutes ahead of half-time with a composed right-foot finish after Gateshead failed to deal with a Brunt free-kick.
Anichebe then dealt a body blow to Gateshead when he took a Berahino pass and rolled his marker before rifling into the roof of the net in first-half stoppage time.
There was more misery for Gary Mills' men less than a minute into the second half, when Berahino showed his class with a sublime right-foot strike inside the right-hand post to put Albion out of sight.
Anichebe almost doubled his tally with a low strike which forced a fine save from Adam Bartlett, but the Gateshead goalkeeper was unable to prevent Berahino from completing his hat-trick after 53 minutes.
The striker found the far corner of the net with a clinical first-time finish from 10 yards out after Chris Baird picked him out and Brunt added a fifth goal two minutes later as a demoralised Gateshead crumbled.
Northern Ireland midfielder Brunt raced clear and rounded Bartlett before tucking the ball into the empty net after substitute Georgios Samaras picked him out.
Morrison added a sixth goal when he tapped home at the far post 11 minutes from time and Berahino had the final say with another stunning right-foot finish after 90 minutes as Gateshead failed to recover from Albion's blitz either side of half-time and bowed out with a heavy defeat.
Saido Berahino netted four goals as West Brom crushed Gateshead 7-0 to book their place in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday afternoon.
Highly-rated striker Berahino, who has been linked with a move away from The Hawthorns, enhanced his value as he took his tally to 13 goals for the season with four clinical finishes, while Victor Anichebe, Chris Brunt and James Morrison also found the net.
It was not all plain sailing for the Premier League strugglers, as they were second best for much of the first half but goals from Berahino and the recalled Anichebe just before the break stunned the Conference National side.
New head coach Pulis, who was appointed as Alan Irvine's successor on New Year's Day and was given a rapturous reception from Albion fans, planned to watch the game from the stands but he was soon his usual animated self on the touchline as his side were lacklustre in the opening period.
Ruthless Albion moved up a gear in the second half and taught Gateshead a lesson as they struck five times to secure safe passage to the fourth round.
Gateshead looked very much at home as they started with confidence and Michael Rankine had a chance to put them in front after 12 minutes when Albion failed to deal with a corner but the striker's attempt from close range was straight at Boaz Myhill.
A disgruntled Pulis was clearly not impressed with what he saw as he came down from the stands to bellow out orders from the touchline after only 15 minutes.
Pulis' words failed to spark Albion into life and John Oster spurned a good opportunity to open the scoring when Matty Pattison cut the ball back for the former Everton man, but he blazed over the crossbar when unmarked in the penalty area.
The underdogs were made to pay for a lack of clinical finishing when Berahino struck three minutes ahead of half-time with a composed right-foot finish after Gateshead failed to deal with a Brunt free-kick.
Anichebe then dealt a body blow to Gateshead when he took a Berahino pass and rolled his marker before rifling into the roof of the net in first-half stoppage time.
There was more misery for Gary Mills' men less than a minute into the second half, when Berahino showed his class with a sublime right-foot strike inside the right-hand post to put Albion out of sight.
Anichebe almost doubled his tally with a low strike which forced a fine save from Adam Bartlett, but the Gateshead goalkeeper was unable to prevent Berahino from completing his hat-trick after 53 minutes.
The striker found the far corner of the net with a clinical first-time finish from 10 yards out after Chris Baird picked him out and Brunt added a fifth goal two minutes later as a demoralised Gateshead crumbled.
Northern Ireland midfielder Brunt raced clear and rounded Bartlett before tucking the ball into the empty net after substitute Georgios Samaras picked him out.
Morrison added a sixth goal when he tapped home at the far post 11 minutes from time and Berahino had the final say with another stunning right-foot finish after 90 minutes as Gateshead failed to recover from Albion's blitz either side of half-time and bowed out with a heavy defeat.
'Ronaldo is the perfect machine, he's the best ever'
Valencia boss Nuno has labelled Cristiano Ronaldo "the perfect machine" and "the best ever" as he prepares to try and keep the Real Madrid man under wraps on Sunday.
Ronaldo, 29, is the frontrunner to win the Ballon d'Or for a third time on January 12, with victory further strengthening his case to be regarded as one of the greatest players of all-time.
Nuno's Valencia side lie in wait for the Portugal star as La Liga resumes after the winter break this weekend and the 40-year-old was wholesome in his praise of his compatriot ahead of the game.
"He's the best in history, a perfect machine," he said of Ronaldo. "But fear not, we are not afraid. That word does not exist in football. We think we can beat any opponent. We also have a strong dynamic at home."
The Mestalla club have already beaten Atletico Madrid in the league this term and only narrowly lost to Barcelona 1-0 in November after wasting several chances of their own to win the game.
Nuno believes that shows his side are capable of mixing it against the very best. "We have played some very good games and one of those ended in victory. The key is how we face every game. You have to play every ball as if it were your last and fight hard. It will be a good match."
New signing Enzo Perez, who joined the club from Benfica on Friday, could make his first appearance for the club after Nuno admitted he was toying with the idea of throwing his new recruit straight into action.
"He is a choice and he's in the squad. He's prepared to play and he's under consideration. Perez is a versatile midfielder who will bring us good offensive capability. He's very complete and will strengthen the midfield.
Valencia sit fourth in La Liga heading into Sunday's game, eight points behind visitors and league leaders Madrid.
Valencia boss Nuno has labelled Cristiano Ronaldo "the perfect machine" and "the best ever" as he prepares to try and keep the Real Madrid man under wraps on Sunday.
Ronaldo, 29, is the frontrunner to win the Ballon d'Or for a third time on January 12, with victory further strengthening his case to be regarded as one of the greatest players of all-time.
Nuno's Valencia side lie in wait for the Portugal star as La Liga resumes after the winter break this weekend and the 40-year-old was wholesome in his praise of his compatriot ahead of the game.
"He's the best in history, a perfect machine," he said of Ronaldo. "But fear not, we are not afraid. That word does not exist in football. We think we can beat any opponent. We also have a strong dynamic at home."
The Mestalla club have already beaten Atletico Madrid in the league this term and only narrowly lost to Barcelona 1-0 in November after wasting several chances of their own to win the game.
Nuno believes that shows his side are capable of mixing it against the very best. "We have played some very good games and one of those ended in victory. The key is how we face every game. You have to play every ball as if it were your last and fight hard. It will be a good match."
New signing Enzo Perez, who joined the club from Benfica on Friday, could make his first appearance for the club after Nuno admitted he was toying with the idea of throwing his new recruit straight into action.
"He is a choice and he's in the squad. He's prepared to play and he's under consideration. Perez is a versatile midfielder who will bring us good offensive capability. He's very complete and will strengthen the midfield.
Valencia sit fourth in La Liga heading into Sunday's game, eight points behind visitors and league leaders Madrid.
Podolski thanks Arsenal fans ahead of Inter loan move
Lukas Podolski has thanked Arsenal fans for their support as he closes in on a loan move to Inter.
The Gunners forward is poised to join the San Siro giants in the coming days, flying into Milan to pen terms on Friday evening, with his frustrating final year with the Gunners set to come to an end.
Podolski has made just 13 appearances in all competitions for the north Londoners this season, none of which were starts, but he still took the time to express his thanks to supporters ahead of his exit.
“I can't express in words my gratitude towards Arsenal fans for all they have done for me in my years in London,” he wrote on Instagram.
“Please know my heart always holds a place for you. I hope I have left my mark on the club & fans alike. Hopefully we shall meet again! COYG.”
The 29-year-old joined Arsenal from FC Koln in 2012 and his current deal with the Gunners expires in June 2016.
Lukas Podolski has thanked Arsenal fans for their support as he closes in on a loan move to Inter.
The Gunners forward is poised to join the San Siro giants in the coming days, flying into Milan to pen terms on Friday evening, with his frustrating final year with the Gunners set to come to an end.
Podolski has made just 13 appearances in all competitions for the north Londoners this season, none of which were starts, but he still took the time to express his thanks to supporters ahead of his exit.
“I can't express in words my gratitude towards Arsenal fans for all they have done for me in my years in London,” he wrote on Instagram.
“Please know my heart always holds a place for you. I hope I have left my mark on the club & fans alike. Hopefully we shall meet again! COYG.”
The 29-year-old joined Arsenal from FC Koln in 2012 and his current deal with the Gunners expires in June 2016.
Luis Enrique ready to blood Barcelona's next generation
Luis Enrique is ready to blood Barcelona's next generation of youth players after their transfer ban until 2016 was confirmed this week.
The Liga giants were sanctioned by Fifa last April when irregularities were found in their dealings at youth level.
Barca's punishment was originally suspended as an appeal was launched to the governing body and, when that was rejected, Barca took their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).However, CAS upheld the original ruling meaning Barca cannot make transfers until 2016, with the club banned from making additions for two transfer windows.
Head coach Luis Enrique admits the situation is not ideal, but the 44-year-old is happy to utilise players coming through the club's youth ranks.
"It came as something of a surprise, we would rather a different decision but we'll deal with what we've got," he said."We've got a good enough squad right now to cope and I have a lot of respect with the players in reserve."Because we can't sign players we'll give more chances to those players and we'll keep an eye on how they're progressing."
CAS' decision may cause a particular issue for Barca in the right-back position with Dani Alves previously announcing that he will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season, while Martin Montoya has also expressed a desire to depart Camp Nou.
However, Luis Enrique insists the ban does not affect the future of either player.
On Montoya, he said: "It doesn't change anything, he said he would like to leave the club, he announced that to the club."Yes, there's been a turn in events since the CAS announcement but I remember that every player has a buyout clause and they can leave the club if that's what they so desire."
In regards to Dani Alves, he added: "With Alves it's a sporting situation I'm not going to make public things I speak about with the directors of sport, they're private matters. "He's an important player in this squad. Whenever these situations arrive I speak to the implicated parties first.
"There's no rush in this respect and the fact we can't sign new players doesn't mean we have to look through a magnifying glass at every departure."
Luis Enrique is ready to blood Barcelona's next generation of youth players after their transfer ban until 2016 was confirmed this week.
The Liga giants were sanctioned by Fifa last April when irregularities were found in their dealings at youth level.
Barca's punishment was originally suspended as an appeal was launched to the governing body and, when that was rejected, Barca took their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).However, CAS upheld the original ruling meaning Barca cannot make transfers until 2016, with the club banned from making additions for two transfer windows.
Head coach Luis Enrique admits the situation is not ideal, but the 44-year-old is happy to utilise players coming through the club's youth ranks.
"It came as something of a surprise, we would rather a different decision but we'll deal with what we've got," he said."We've got a good enough squad right now to cope and I have a lot of respect with the players in reserve."Because we can't sign players we'll give more chances to those players and we'll keep an eye on how they're progressing."
CAS' decision may cause a particular issue for Barca in the right-back position with Dani Alves previously announcing that he will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season, while Martin Montoya has also expressed a desire to depart Camp Nou.
However, Luis Enrique insists the ban does not affect the future of either player.
On Montoya, he said: "It doesn't change anything, he said he would like to leave the club, he announced that to the club."Yes, there's been a turn in events since the CAS announcement but I remember that every player has a buyout clause and they can leave the club if that's what they so desire."
In regards to Dani Alves, he added: "With Alves it's a sporting situation I'm not going to make public things I speak about with the directors of sport, they're private matters. "He's an important player in this squad. Whenever these situations arrive I speak to the implicated parties first.
"There's no rush in this respect and the fact we can't sign new players doesn't mean we have to look through a magnifying glass at every departure."
Scholes: Gerrard should have joined Chelsea in 2005
Paul Scholes believes Steven Gerrard should have left Liverpool to join Chelsea after the Reds’ 2005 Champions League triumph.
Gerrard announced on Friday that he will leave Anfield upon the expiration of his contract this summer and LA Galaxy appear to be the frontrunners to land his signature, though Goal understands that Orlando City would also be interested in a potential move were the price right.
However, former Manchester United midfielder Scholes, who won 11 Premier League titles, believes Gerrard “deserves to have a league winners’ medal”, and says the 34-year-old should have moved to Chelsea when he had the chance.
“It's difficult for me, as a United fan, to say it's a pity that Gerrard has never won the league,” he told The Independent.
“If there was a time to leave Liverpool and join another club, he should have gone to Chelsea when they tried to sign him for the second time after he won the Champions League in 2005.
“It always looked like Chelsea would win the league more than once.”
Scholes also hit back at claims that Gerrard’s achievements would have been diminished had he won trophies at Stamford Bridge, and he wonders if the star has decided to leave Anfield because of their slip from second in the Premier League to eighth.
“There are those who say it would have been worth less with Chelsea. I disagree,” he added.
“Moving clubs is part of football. I was lucky that my club were strong enough that I could fulfil my ambitions there.
“I wonder if part of his decision to leave Liverpool now was that, compared with last season, the club look much further away from the league title.”
Paul Scholes believes Steven Gerrard should have left Liverpool to join Chelsea after the Reds’ 2005 Champions League triumph.
Gerrard announced on Friday that he will leave Anfield upon the expiration of his contract this summer and LA Galaxy appear to be the frontrunners to land his signature, though Goal understands that Orlando City would also be interested in a potential move were the price right.
However, former Manchester United midfielder Scholes, who won 11 Premier League titles, believes Gerrard “deserves to have a league winners’ medal”, and says the 34-year-old should have moved to Chelsea when he had the chance.
“It's difficult for me, as a United fan, to say it's a pity that Gerrard has never won the league,” he told The Independent.
“If there was a time to leave Liverpool and join another club, he should have gone to Chelsea when they tried to sign him for the second time after he won the Champions League in 2005.
“It always looked like Chelsea would win the league more than once.”
Scholes also hit back at claims that Gerrard’s achievements would have been diminished had he won trophies at Stamford Bridge, and he wonders if the star has decided to leave Anfield because of their slip from second in the Premier League to eighth.
“There are those who say it would have been worth less with Chelsea. I disagree,” he added.
“Moving clubs is part of football. I was lucky that my club were strong enough that I could fulfil my ambitions there.
“I wonder if part of his decision to leave Liverpool now was that, compared with last season, the club look much further away from the league title.”
Icardi: Ibrahimovic not the player he was at Inter
Inter striker Mauro Icardi says that while Zlatan Ibrahimovic remains a "top player", the Paris Saint-Germain forward has regressed since his time at San Siro.
Ibrahimovic won three Scudetti in this three seasons with the Nerazzurri before leaving for Barcelona in 2009 and then returning to Italy the following year to join AC Milan.The Sweden international has since moved on to PSG, whom he has fired to back-to-back Ligue 1 titles.
However, Icardi feels that the passing of time is slowly but surely taking its toll on the 33-year-old attacker.
"Although he's not the Ibrahimovic that played for Inter, he remains a top player today," the Argentine told Tuttosport. "But getting older, you play in a more relaxed way."My role model is [from Argentina ace Gabriel] Batistuta. But while at Barcelona, the forward that I most resembled was [Samuel] Eto'o."
Icardi came through the youth team ranks at La Masia but never broke into the Barca first team and he feels that he was a victim of the same tactical restrictions that hindered Ibrahimovic during his solitary season at Camp Nou.
"The same thing happened to Ibra despite the fact that he is a great forward," the 21-year-old stated. "In the last 10 years, Barcelona never nedeed a penalty-box centre-forward. Their game has never provided for it. This convinced me to go to Sampdoria [in 2011]."Icardi proved himself at the Luigi Ferraris, with his fine goalscoring form earning him a move to Inter in 2013.
The Rosario native is the Nerazzurri's top scorer this term, with 14 goals in 21 Serie A appearances, but the San Siro are struggling, currently sitting 11th in the table.Consequently, Icardi is looking forward to the arrival of Lukas Podolski, who is set to join Inter on loan from Arsenal.
"He's a great player," the Nerazzurri No.9 added. "The president [Erick Thohir] wants to improve the squad for the second half of the season. [Podolski's] arrival will be a great thing for the team."
Inter striker Mauro Icardi says that while Zlatan Ibrahimovic remains a "top player", the Paris Saint-Germain forward has regressed since his time at San Siro.
Ibrahimovic won three Scudetti in this three seasons with the Nerazzurri before leaving for Barcelona in 2009 and then returning to Italy the following year to join AC Milan.The Sweden international has since moved on to PSG, whom he has fired to back-to-back Ligue 1 titles.
However, Icardi feels that the passing of time is slowly but surely taking its toll on the 33-year-old attacker.
"Although he's not the Ibrahimovic that played for Inter, he remains a top player today," the Argentine told Tuttosport. "But getting older, you play in a more relaxed way."My role model is [from Argentina ace Gabriel] Batistuta. But while at Barcelona, the forward that I most resembled was [Samuel] Eto'o."
Icardi came through the youth team ranks at La Masia but never broke into the Barca first team and he feels that he was a victim of the same tactical restrictions that hindered Ibrahimovic during his solitary season at Camp Nou.
"The same thing happened to Ibra despite the fact that he is a great forward," the 21-year-old stated. "In the last 10 years, Barcelona never nedeed a penalty-box centre-forward. Their game has never provided for it. This convinced me to go to Sampdoria [in 2011]."Icardi proved himself at the Luigi Ferraris, with his fine goalscoring form earning him a move to Inter in 2013.
The Rosario native is the Nerazzurri's top scorer this term, with 14 goals in 21 Serie A appearances, but the San Siro are struggling, currently sitting 11th in the table.Consequently, Icardi is looking forward to the arrival of Lukas Podolski, who is set to join Inter on loan from Arsenal.
"He's a great player," the Nerazzurri No.9 added. "The president [Erick Thohir] wants to improve the squad for the second half of the season. [Podolski's] arrival will be a great thing for the team."
Gerrard will move to MLS, Liverpool reveal
Liverpool have revealed that departing captain Steven Gerrard will move to the USA this summer.
The Reds legend confirmed on Friday his intention to seek a new challenge at the end of the season, calling it the hardest decision of his life.
Major League Soccer was immediately mooted as a possible destination and the ex-England international has now made it clear that he will move across the Atlantic after the Premier League campaign has concluded, with LA Galaxy the favourites to secure his signature.
Real Sociedad coach David Moyes and Southampton boss Ronald Koeman had both indicated an openness to signing Gerrard should he be interested but the 34-year-old has chosen MLS as his next destination.
Former Reds boss Gerard Houllier, meanwhile, who gave the midfielder his debut for the club, expects him to be back at Anfield one day as manager.
Liverpool have revealed that departing captain Steven Gerrard will move to the USA this summer.
The Reds legend confirmed on Friday his intention to seek a new challenge at the end of the season, calling it the hardest decision of his life.
Major League Soccer was immediately mooted as a possible destination and the ex-England international has now made it clear that he will move across the Atlantic after the Premier League campaign has concluded, with LA Galaxy the favourites to secure his signature.
Real Sociedad coach David Moyes and Southampton boss Ronald Koeman had both indicated an openness to signing Gerrard should he be interested but the 34-year-old has chosen MLS as his next destination.
Former Reds boss Gerard Houllier, meanwhile, who gave the midfielder his debut for the club, expects him to be back at Anfield one day as manager.
Moyes: Barcelona the game's greatest passers but Real Sociedad can beat them
David Moyes has hailed Barcelona as the best passing team in the world over the past 10 years but says Real Sociedad are more than capable of beating the Blaugrana in San Sebastian on Sunday.
The Scot retains the utmost respect for a club that won three Champions Leagues between 2006 and 2011 with their game-changing brand of tiki-taka football and that currently sit second in La Liga.
However, with Real having won three of their last four home games against Barca, drawing the other, Moyes sees no reason why his players should fear their Catalan opponents."We respect Barcelona because they are very good," the former Manchester United boss told reporters on Friday. "They have been the best in the world over the past 10 years in possession of the ball.
"Collectively, they are very dangerous, and individually, any player can win a match on their own."But they are coming to San Sebastian and we need to show them again hat it’s not an easy place to come to and win."
Moyes has overseen one Liga win, three draws and a solitary defeat since taking charge of Real following the dismissal of Jagoba Arrasate in November.The Basques currently sit 14th in the Primera Division standings but have amassed 11 of their 15 points to date at the Anoeta.
David Moyes has hailed Barcelona as the best passing team in the world over the past 10 years but says Real Sociedad are more than capable of beating the Blaugrana in San Sebastian on Sunday.
The Scot retains the utmost respect for a club that won three Champions Leagues between 2006 and 2011 with their game-changing brand of tiki-taka football and that currently sit second in La Liga.
However, with Real having won three of their last four home games against Barca, drawing the other, Moyes sees no reason why his players should fear their Catalan opponents."We respect Barcelona because they are very good," the former Manchester United boss told reporters on Friday. "They have been the best in the world over the past 10 years in possession of the ball.
"Collectively, they are very dangerous, and individually, any player can win a match on their own."But they are coming to San Sebastian and we need to show them again hat it’s not an easy place to come to and win."
Moyes has overseen one Liga win, three draws and a solitary defeat since taking charge of Real following the dismissal of Jagoba Arrasate in November.The Basques currently sit 14th in the Primera Division standings but have amassed 11 of their 15 points to date at the Anoeta.
Wenger: I would have stayed at Arsenal even without FA Cup win
Arsene Wenger insists that he would not have left Arsenal if the club had failed to win the FA Cup last season.
The Gunners ended their nine-year wait for silverware by coming from two goals down to beat Hull City 3-2 at Wembley in May, with Aaron Ramsey netting an extra-time winner.
Wenger was under increased scrutiny ahead of the final after another failed Premier League title challenge and the manager admits that he felt the win would be a "game-changer", only to suffer further this season.
When asked by reporters on Thursday if he would have walked away, Wenger replied: "Walked where? To walk where? Walk away, no.
"Look, I just won my 600th game out of 1000, that means I won 60 per cent of the games and after 18 years it would not be serious to walk away for losing one game. I do my job as well as I can and I respect my contract always.
"We didn’t win a trophy for years and of course people want that. As well, 2-0 down after 10 minutes and they nearly scored the third.
"When you know football, normally that means you have very little chance to win so the fact we could turn it around and win was a fantastic relief."
Wenger faces Hull City in the FA Cup third round on Sunday looking for a reprieve from their Premier League struggles, with Arsenal lying sixth in the table, and Wenger has urged his side to improve after being beaten 2-0 by Southampton.
"We have a big job to do on Sunday and then come back in the Premier League, and then we have the Champions League," he added.
Arsene Wenger insists that he would not have left Arsenal if the club had failed to win the FA Cup last season.
The Gunners ended their nine-year wait for silverware by coming from two goals down to beat Hull City 3-2 at Wembley in May, with Aaron Ramsey netting an extra-time winner.
Wenger was under increased scrutiny ahead of the final after another failed Premier League title challenge and the manager admits that he felt the win would be a "game-changer", only to suffer further this season.
When asked by reporters on Thursday if he would have walked away, Wenger replied: "Walked where? To walk where? Walk away, no.
"Look, I just won my 600th game out of 1000, that means I won 60 per cent of the games and after 18 years it would not be serious to walk away for losing one game. I do my job as well as I can and I respect my contract always.
"We didn’t win a trophy for years and of course people want that. As well, 2-0 down after 10 minutes and they nearly scored the third.
"When you know football, normally that means you have very little chance to win so the fact we could turn it around and win was a fantastic relief."
Wenger faces Hull City in the FA Cup third round on Sunday looking for a reprieve from their Premier League struggles, with Arsenal lying sixth in the table, and Wenger has urged his side to improve after being beaten 2-0 by Southampton.
"We have a big job to do on Sunday and then come back in the Premier League, and then we have the Champions League," he added.
Ronaldo 'would listen' if Manchester United were interested, says Phelan
Former Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan says that Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo "would listen" if the club tried to buy him back.
The Portuguese formed a strong connection with the Red Devils and their fans during his prolific spell at Old Trafford before joining Los Blancos for £80 million (€94 million).
Consequently, Phelan believes that Ronaldo would be open to a return to United, though he doubts that the 29-year-old would yet be ready to leave the Santiago Bernabeu.
"Ronaldo loved his time at Manchester United and, if Manchester United were interested in him again, then he would listen to that because part of his career has come through Man United," he told IBTimes UK.
"But listen, he is where he is because of him being Ronaldo and, at the moment, Madrid are successful so I can't see why he would think about coming back to Manchester United now."
Louis van Gaal’s side sit third in the Premier League as the January transfer window opens and Phelan, who left the club along with Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, does not expect a great deal of reinforcement until the summer.
"Do they need to sign anyone? I'm not there anymore but what I've seen is that a full Manchester United squad going into January will be formidable," he opined. "They have quality.
"There haven't been many times when they've purchased in January apart from rare examples – [Nemanja] Vidic, [Patrice] Evra, et cetera.
"It's been the case of seeing what is out there, what you can bring in and the amount you are willing to spend. It is an inflated market."
Former Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan says that Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo "would listen" if the club tried to buy him back.
The Portuguese formed a strong connection with the Red Devils and their fans during his prolific spell at Old Trafford before joining Los Blancos for £80 million (€94 million).
Consequently, Phelan believes that Ronaldo would be open to a return to United, though he doubts that the 29-year-old would yet be ready to leave the Santiago Bernabeu.
"Ronaldo loved his time at Manchester United and, if Manchester United were interested in him again, then he would listen to that because part of his career has come through Man United," he told IBTimes UK.
"But listen, he is where he is because of him being Ronaldo and, at the moment, Madrid are successful so I can't see why he would think about coming back to Manchester United now."
Louis van Gaal’s side sit third in the Premier League as the January transfer window opens and Phelan, who left the club along with Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, does not expect a great deal of reinforcement until the summer.
"Do they need to sign anyone? I'm not there anymore but what I've seen is that a full Manchester United squad going into January will be formidable," he opined. "They have quality.
"There haven't been many times when they've purchased in January apart from rare examples – [Nemanja] Vidic, [Patrice] Evra, et cetera.
"It's been the case of seeing what is out there, what you can bring in and the amount you are willing to spend. It is an inflated market."
Juventus can reach Champions League quarter-finals - Bonucci
Leonardo Bonucci is confident Juventus are capable of reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League and says last-16 opponents Borussia Dortmund will provide the perfect European litmus test for his side.
The Bianconeri won three consecutive Serie A titles under previous coach Antonio Conte, but European football's elite competition has proved to be something of a stumbling block.
In each of the past three seasons the club have failed to progress beyond the group stages, but Massimiliano Allegri successfully navigated his new side into the last-16 by finishing second in Group A behind Atletico Madrid.
Juve were subsequently drawn against Bundesliga side Dortmund and despite their struggles in Germany's top flight, Bonucci says the game will show just how far the team have come under their new boss.
"Dortmund are a great team and they will tell us exactly what level we have reached in the Champions League," he said.
"In the Champions League you need luck, but we have improved and we can finish in the top eight, I am certain of that."
Despite topping Serie A heading into the winter break, Allegri's men ended 2014 on a sour note as they were beaten on penalties in the Italian Super Cup by Napoli, a result Bonucci is determined to banish from memory.
"To finish the year with a defeat was not good and we want to immediately make a strong start to 2015. I want to defend the jersey and bring my passion."
Juve resume their league campaign against Inter on Tuesday and face Dortmund in the first-leg of their last-16 Champions League encounter on February 24.
Leonardo Bonucci is confident Juventus are capable of reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League and says last-16 opponents Borussia Dortmund will provide the perfect European litmus test for his side.
The Bianconeri won three consecutive Serie A titles under previous coach Antonio Conte, but European football's elite competition has proved to be something of a stumbling block.
In each of the past three seasons the club have failed to progress beyond the group stages, but Massimiliano Allegri successfully navigated his new side into the last-16 by finishing second in Group A behind Atletico Madrid.
Juve were subsequently drawn against Bundesliga side Dortmund and despite their struggles in Germany's top flight, Bonucci says the game will show just how far the team have come under their new boss.
"Dortmund are a great team and they will tell us exactly what level we have reached in the Champions League," he said.
"In the Champions League you need luck, but we have improved and we can finish in the top eight, I am certain of that."
Despite topping Serie A heading into the winter break, Allegri's men ended 2014 on a sour note as they were beaten on penalties in the Italian Super Cup by Napoli, a result Bonucci is determined to banish from memory.
"To finish the year with a defeat was not good and we want to immediately make a strong start to 2015. I want to defend the jersey and bring my passion."
Juve resume their league campaign against Inter on Tuesday and face Dortmund in the first-leg of their last-16 Champions League encounter on February 24.
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal will not be taking League One strugglers Yeovil Town lightly in Sunday's FA Cup third-round tie.
United head to Huish Park as heavy favourites to see off the bottom side in England's third tier and progress to the next stage of a competition which they last won in 2004.
However, Van Gaal has already seen his side suffer a sensational defeat to a League One side this season, when they were beaten 4-0 by MK Dons in the League Cup in August and the Dutchman also pointed to cup shocks during his time at Ajax and Barcelona as he underlined the need for United to avoid complacency.
"We know from our early exit in the [League] Cup that league places mean nothing in the cups but I know that also from Ajax and Barcelona so it's not only like that in England," Van Gaal told the media.
"It is always a shock when you play against a lower team because you can assume that you have to win but it is not like that in football.
"I have lost with Ajax against a lower team - against Cambuur, for example. I lost at Barcelona against a third-division team. I can't remember [which team] any more - it has been wiped out of my mind - but we have lost."
Van Gaal acknowledges that the FA Cup could provide United, who sit nine points behind Chelsea and Manchester City in the Premier League, with their best chance of securing silverware this season.
"Yes, I think so. It is the shortest way to success so you are right, we are very interested in the FA Cup and I think my players are also," he added.
"In the Netherlands, we have known for many years that the FA Cup is one of the most important competitions in football. The FA Cup was shown on the television over there at a time when it was not common to show matches from other countries."
Official: Pardew confirmed as Crystal Palace boss
Alan Pardew has been confirmed as the new Crystal Palace manager after being officially released from his contract at Newcastle.
The former Eagles player has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at Selhurst Park, where he succeeds Neil Warnock.
In a statement on Newcastle's official website, Pardew said: "It has been a privilege to manage Newcastle United and I want to thank my captain, Fabricio Coloccini, and all the players, John Carver, Steve Stone, Andy Woodman and all the staff, all of who have been outstanding servants to Newcastle United.
"A special thanks also goes to the fans for all their support over the last four years. I must also thank Mike Ashley and the board for their unwavering support during my tenure at the club."
The 53-year-old had been the second-longest-serving boss in the Premier League behind Arsene Wenger but has opted to return to the club where he made his name as a player.
Pardew spent four years with the Londoners, his first professional club, and was part of the side who made the final of the FA Cup in 1990, famously scoring against Liverpool in the semi-final.
As reported by Goal, Palace agreed a compensation package of £2.5 million (€3m) with Newcastle to land Pardew, who became the Eagles' No.1 target following the dismissal of Warnock on December 27.
Palace are currently 18th in the Premier League and facing a fight against relegation but escaped the drop in the 2013-14 campaign after Tony Pulis, later named Manger of the Season, was appointed.
On Palace's official website, the new boss continued: "I am absolutely delighted to be the new manager of Crystal Palace.
"Everyone knows my history here, what's important now is to move the club to the next level. I believe, with the backing of Steve [Parish] and the board, I can help achieve that and create some new exciting history for the club."
Chairman Parish enthused: "We wanted a manager with a great track record and proven experience in the Premier League. In Alan we have both these things as well as a man who has great affection for this club and shares my determination to take us to the next level."
Alan Pardew has been confirmed as the new Crystal Palace manager after being officially released from his contract at Newcastle.
The former Eagles player has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at Selhurst Park, where he succeeds Neil Warnock.
In a statement on Newcastle's official website, Pardew said: "It has been a privilege to manage Newcastle United and I want to thank my captain, Fabricio Coloccini, and all the players, John Carver, Steve Stone, Andy Woodman and all the staff, all of who have been outstanding servants to Newcastle United.
"A special thanks also goes to the fans for all their support over the last four years. I must also thank Mike Ashley and the board for their unwavering support during my tenure at the club."
The 53-year-old had been the second-longest-serving boss in the Premier League behind Arsene Wenger but has opted to return to the club where he made his name as a player.
Pardew spent four years with the Londoners, his first professional club, and was part of the side who made the final of the FA Cup in 1990, famously scoring against Liverpool in the semi-final.
As reported by Goal, Palace agreed a compensation package of £2.5 million (€3m) with Newcastle to land Pardew, who became the Eagles' No.1 target following the dismissal of Warnock on December 27.
Palace are currently 18th in the Premier League and facing a fight against relegation but escaped the drop in the 2013-14 campaign after Tony Pulis, later named Manger of the Season, was appointed.
On Palace's official website, the new boss continued: "I am absolutely delighted to be the new manager of Crystal Palace.
"Everyone knows my history here, what's important now is to move the club to the next level. I believe, with the backing of Steve [Parish] and the board, I can help achieve that and create some new exciting history for the club."
Chairman Parish enthused: "We wanted a manager with a great track record and proven experience in the Premier League. In Alan we have both these things as well as a man who has great affection for this club and shares my determination to take us to the next level."
FA Cup Fixtures 2015.01.04
FA Cup Fixtures 2015.01.04
Dover Vs Crystal Palace
QPR Vs Sheffield
Sunderland Vs Leeds United
Aston Villa Vs Blackpool
Manchester City Vs Sheffield Wednesday
Southampton Vs Ipswich Town
Stoke City Vs Wrexham
Yeovil Town Vs Manchester United
Chelsea Vs Watford
Arsenal Vs Hull City
Dover Vs Crystal Palace
QPR Vs Sheffield
Sunderland Vs Leeds United
Aston Villa Vs Blackpool
Manchester City Vs Sheffield Wednesday
Southampton Vs Ipswich Town
Stoke City Vs Wrexham
Yeovil Town Vs Manchester United
Chelsea Vs Watford
Arsenal Vs Hull City
Full Time
Yeovil Town 0 Vs 2 Manchester United
Manchester United Goal(s)
Herrera 64'
Di Maria 90'
Manchester United Goal(s)
Herrera 64'
Di Maria 90'
Congratulations Manchester United!
Herrera goal 1ka patta
niyama finish 1ka
& Di Maria ge goal finish 1kath niyamai
Herrera goal 1ka patta
niyama finish 1ka & Di Maria ge goal finish 1kath niyamai
Arsenal 2-0 Hull City: Mertesacker & Alexis wrap up victory
Arsenal had Per Mertesacker and Alexis Sanchez to thank for guiding them into the fourth round of the FA Cup after a 2-0 win over Hull.
Steve Bruce's team had surged into a 2-0 lead when the teams met at Wembley in last season's final before the north London club secured a 3-2 extra-time triumph to lift the famous trophy.
But Hull were unable to worry Arsenal in the same manner during the opening stages this time, and the hosts were good value for Mertesacker’s headed opener.
Alexis, Nacho Monreal and the returning Theo Walcott all went close to doubling the lead before the early inventiveness faded from Arsenal’s play.
Arsene Wenger's men still largely retained control of the contest and Alexis sealed a deserved return to winning ways eight minutes from time, following their Premier League reverse at Southampton on New Year's Day.Walcott returned to the Arsenal starting line-up for the first time since he tore knee ligaments in last year's third-round win over Tottenham, and the England man was joined by Alexis and Joel Campbell in a pacy forward line.
Hull manager Bruce made wholesale changes, with Curtis Davies the only player retained from the 2-0 Premier League win over Everton.
Veteran Hull goalkeeper Steve Harper saved smartly from Campbell after the Costa Rica international exchanged passes with Alexis in the fourth minute.Walcott and Alexis then combined for the latter to lob a shot onto the roof of the net - Hull defender Harry Maguire blocking an initial effort.Tom Ince cut in from the right to thump a low shot past the near post for Hull, but his team were behind in the 20th minute, Mertesacker towering to head home an Alexis corner.
Arsenal immediately looked to press home their advantage, with Paul McShane brilliantly clearing off the line after Alexis had rounded Harper, and the goalkeeper diverted Monreal's near-post header from the resulting corner onto his near post.
Harper thwarted Walcott in the 27th minute on the end of a superb chipped pass from Santi Cazorla but Arsenal failed to retain their earlier fluency.
Campbell jinked his way past Davies and tried to guide the ball into the bottom corner four minutes into the second half, but Harper was able to hold a tame strike.
The forward came up short once more in the 61st minute, pulling a left-footed shot wide when confronted by a sprawling McShane.
Maguire then produced a magnificent last-ditch challenge to deny Alexis, before Walcott became the latest Arsenal attacker to spurn an opening, stabbing the ball wastefully wide having been played through by Cazorla.Harper scrambled out to save from Alexis in the 74th minute, the former Barcelona forward losing his footing at the crucial moment, before substitute Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain failed to convert Alexis' drilled cross.
Sanchez got the goal his efforts deserved with time running out, collecting Cazorla's pass and swivelling on the edge of the box to curl a low strike past Harper.The result retains Arsenal's hopes of becoming the first team since Chelsea in 2010 to retain the FA Cup.
Arsenal had Per Mertesacker and Alexis Sanchez to thank for guiding them into the fourth round of the FA Cup after a 2-0 win over Hull.
Steve Bruce's team had surged into a 2-0 lead when the teams met at Wembley in last season's final before the north London club secured a 3-2 extra-time triumph to lift the famous trophy.
But Hull were unable to worry Arsenal in the same manner during the opening stages this time, and the hosts were good value for Mertesacker’s headed opener.
Alexis, Nacho Monreal and the returning Theo Walcott all went close to doubling the lead before the early inventiveness faded from Arsenal’s play.
Arsene Wenger's men still largely retained control of the contest and Alexis sealed a deserved return to winning ways eight minutes from time, following their Premier League reverse at Southampton on New Year's Day.Walcott returned to the Arsenal starting line-up for the first time since he tore knee ligaments in last year's third-round win over Tottenham, and the England man was joined by Alexis and Joel Campbell in a pacy forward line.
Hull manager Bruce made wholesale changes, with Curtis Davies the only player retained from the 2-0 Premier League win over Everton.
Veteran Hull goalkeeper Steve Harper saved smartly from Campbell after the Costa Rica international exchanged passes with Alexis in the fourth minute.Walcott and Alexis then combined for the latter to lob a shot onto the roof of the net - Hull defender Harry Maguire blocking an initial effort.Tom Ince cut in from the right to thump a low shot past the near post for Hull, but his team were behind in the 20th minute, Mertesacker towering to head home an Alexis corner.
Arsenal immediately looked to press home their advantage, with Paul McShane brilliantly clearing off the line after Alexis had rounded Harper, and the goalkeeper diverted Monreal's near-post header from the resulting corner onto his near post.
Harper thwarted Walcott in the 27th minute on the end of a superb chipped pass from Santi Cazorla but Arsenal failed to retain their earlier fluency.
Campbell jinked his way past Davies and tried to guide the ball into the bottom corner four minutes into the second half, but Harper was able to hold a tame strike.
The forward came up short once more in the 61st minute, pulling a left-footed shot wide when confronted by a sprawling McShane.
Maguire then produced a magnificent last-ditch challenge to deny Alexis, before Walcott became the latest Arsenal attacker to spurn an opening, stabbing the ball wastefully wide having been played through by Cazorla.Harper scrambled out to save from Alexis in the 74th minute, the former Barcelona forward losing his footing at the crucial moment, before substitute Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain failed to convert Alexis' drilled cross.
Sanchez got the goal his efforts deserved with time running out, collecting Cazorla's pass and swivelling on the edge of the box to curl a low strike past Harper.The result retains Arsenal's hopes of becoming the first team since Chelsea in 2010 to retain the FA Cup.
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