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Van Persie: Vieira inspired me to be strong mentally
Patrick Vieira played a key role in helping Robin van Persie learn how to deal with pressure, according to the Netherlands striker.
Van Persie swapped Manchester United for Fenerbahce in July but has not featured in the starting line-up for a Super Lig clash since September 13.
The 32-year-old - who made his 100th appearance for the Netherlands in their 2-1 Euro 2016 qualifying win over Kazakhstan on Saturday - has also been stripped of the national team captaincy by head coach Danny Blind.
But the former Feyenoord man is determined not to let adversity affect him, revealing he learned how to remain strong from his former Arsenal team-mate Vieira.
"When you're young you don't know how to deal with situations like this," Van Persie was quoted as saying by The Daily Mirror.
"But let me explain who was my guide to a great balance in life. Patrick Vieira showed me how to stay mentally strong and cope with all the pressures.
"My first season at Arsenal was Patrick's last. There were lots of stories about him going to Real Madrid. There was so much happening around this guy, it was incredible, and yet he was a tower of strength and an icon of calmness.
"He just remained our natural leader. Nothing could affect him. He was totally in balance, he was on top of everything and felt he could master it all.
"As a young player I was completely in awe of him. I admired that mental strength in him, and I think everybody else did."
In order to qualify for the Euro 2016 play-offs, the Netherlands need to beat the Czech Republic, who have already qualified, on Tuesday and hope group leaders Iceland defeat third-placed Turkey.
Van Persie regrets the fact the Dutch do not have their fate in their own hands, but promised to do his utmost if selected.
"We must battle until the last minutes of this campaign and try to qualify," he said. "It's sad that we've landed in a situation like this.
"The Turks are very confident they will qualify. In the dressing-room at Fenerbahce they've been making jokes, but in reality it's serious business.
"As long as we have a chance, I will keep fighting on the pitch for my country - that is when I play."
Patrick Vieira played a key role in helping Robin van Persie learn how to deal with pressure, according to the Netherlands striker.
Van Persie swapped Manchester United for Fenerbahce in July but has not featured in the starting line-up for a Super Lig clash since September 13.
The 32-year-old - who made his 100th appearance for the Netherlands in their 2-1 Euro 2016 qualifying win over Kazakhstan on Saturday - has also been stripped of the national team captaincy by head coach Danny Blind.
But the former Feyenoord man is determined not to let adversity affect him, revealing he learned how to remain strong from his former Arsenal team-mate Vieira.
"When you're young you don't know how to deal with situations like this," Van Persie was quoted as saying by The Daily Mirror.
"But let me explain who was my guide to a great balance in life. Patrick Vieira showed me how to stay mentally strong and cope with all the pressures.
"My first season at Arsenal was Patrick's last. There were lots of stories about him going to Real Madrid. There was so much happening around this guy, it was incredible, and yet he was a tower of strength and an icon of calmness.
"He just remained our natural leader. Nothing could affect him. He was totally in balance, he was on top of everything and felt he could master it all.
"As a young player I was completely in awe of him. I admired that mental strength in him, and I think everybody else did."
In order to qualify for the Euro 2016 play-offs, the Netherlands need to beat the Czech Republic, who have already qualified, on Tuesday and hope group leaders Iceland defeat third-placed Turkey.
Van Persie regrets the fact the Dutch do not have their fate in their own hands, but promised to do his utmost if selected.
"We must battle until the last minutes of this campaign and try to qualify," he said. "It's sad that we've landed in a situation like this.
"The Turks are very confident they will qualify. In the dressing-room at Fenerbahce they've been making jokes, but in reality it's serious business.
"As long as we have a chance, I will keep fighting on the pitch for my country - that is when I play."
'No hatred between Bale and Ronaldo'
There is no hatred or resentment between Real Madrid pair Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, according to the Wales star's agent, Jonathan Barnett.
Bale replaced the Portuguese international as the world’s most expensive player when he joined Madrid from Tottenham in 2013 and there’s been constant speculation about how they get on.
However, Barnett, 65, insists there is no strain on the relationship between the two players.
“They don’t go out eating every night together, but it’s fine," he told the Guardian. "There’s no hatred there.
"Gareth is a quiet guy. They’re complete opposites. But I think Gareth can learn a little bit from Ronaldo as well, interacting maybe a little bit. But he wants his own life and he lives it.”
Since moving to Spain, Bale has won the Champions League and the Copa del Rey with Los Blancos, while he has also helped Wales qualify for their first major tournament in nearly 60 years.
As well winning team honours, though, Barnett says the 26-year-old is focused on becoming the world’s top player.
"Gareth is a great footballer, he doesn’t want anything more,” he added. “He has some very good endorsements, but his whole life is to be the best footballer in the world.
“I don’t think he wants to be the best model in the world or the best underwear seller. That’s not him.”
Despite the success in his first year in the Spanish capital, Bale did endure some darker days last season.
There was criticism from some sections of the support with Madrid forced to watch on as rivals Barcelona secured the treble, but Barnett feels there were other factors behind the fans’ frustrations being taken out on his client.
And he says he expects things to change, adding that Bale will not be forced out of Spain in the coming years.
“I think there’s a great love of Ronaldo [at Madrid],” he stated. “I think that the new guard is coming and there’s some resentment, perhaps, to that.
“But I think things will change. Gareth’s now playing in a better position [more centrally], where he wants to play. I’ve always said it, I think he’ll be the best player in the world in the next couple of years.”
There is no hatred or resentment between Real Madrid pair Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, according to the Wales star's agent, Jonathan Barnett.
Bale replaced the Portuguese international as the world’s most expensive player when he joined Madrid from Tottenham in 2013 and there’s been constant speculation about how they get on.
However, Barnett, 65, insists there is no strain on the relationship between the two players.
“They don’t go out eating every night together, but it’s fine," he told the Guardian. "There’s no hatred there.
"Gareth is a quiet guy. They’re complete opposites. But I think Gareth can learn a little bit from Ronaldo as well, interacting maybe a little bit. But he wants his own life and he lives it.”
Since moving to Spain, Bale has won the Champions League and the Copa del Rey with Los Blancos, while he has also helped Wales qualify for their first major tournament in nearly 60 years.
As well winning team honours, though, Barnett says the 26-year-old is focused on becoming the world’s top player.
"Gareth is a great footballer, he doesn’t want anything more,” he added. “He has some very good endorsements, but his whole life is to be the best footballer in the world.
“I don’t think he wants to be the best model in the world or the best underwear seller. That’s not him.”
Despite the success in his first year in the Spanish capital, Bale did endure some darker days last season.
There was criticism from some sections of the support with Madrid forced to watch on as rivals Barcelona secured the treble, but Barnett feels there were other factors behind the fans’ frustrations being taken out on his client.
And he says he expects things to change, adding that Bale will not be forced out of Spain in the coming years.
“I think there’s a great love of Ronaldo [at Madrid],” he stated. “I think that the new guard is coming and there’s some resentment, perhaps, to that.
“But I think things will change. Gareth’s now playing in a better position [more centrally], where he wants to play. I’ve always said it, I think he’ll be the best player in the world in the next couple of years.”
Depay & Van Persie row played down by Blind
Netherlands coach Danny Blind his dismissed suggestions Robin van Persie was benched for the Euro 2016 qualification win over Kazakhstan on Saturday due to a row with Memphis Depay.
Reports suggested the Fenerbahce striker was involved in an incident with the Manchester United winger ahead of the game and alleged he was left out of the starting XI as a consequence.
Blind has downplayed the significance of the row between the pair, insisting Van Persie started from the bench due to a lack of fitness.
"We have discussed what happened, but that had nothing to do with my decision," Blind told reporters ahead of the crucial Euro 2016 qualifier against Czech Republic on Tuesday.
"I felt that he was not fit enough to start. I think that's down to the fact that he has not played without pain for quite a while.
"He is pain free now and feels 100 per cent. But I want him to be fit enough to play the full 90 minutes. That's why I did not play him as support striker against Kazakhstan.
"He is fit enough for the match against Czech Republic, but I will have to make choices."
Van Persie came off the bench in the closing stages of the 2-1 win over Kazakhstan to earn his 100th cap, with some pundits suggesting his substitute cameo was a farewell gesture as Blind prepares to jettison the Fenerbahce forward.
"That is absolute nonsense," the head coach said.
"We had agreed that I would get him on if we needed a goal, but I also thought it was only logical to give him his 100th cap because the game was already decided.
"I had to wait for my third substitution for a bit, though. I talked about that with Robin and he understood me. I find it baffling that people don't get that."
Netherlands coach Danny Blind his dismissed suggestions Robin van Persie was benched for the Euro 2016 qualification win over Kazakhstan on Saturday due to a row with Memphis Depay.
Reports suggested the Fenerbahce striker was involved in an incident with the Manchester United winger ahead of the game and alleged he was left out of the starting XI as a consequence.
Blind has downplayed the significance of the row between the pair, insisting Van Persie started from the bench due to a lack of fitness.
"We have discussed what happened, but that had nothing to do with my decision," Blind told reporters ahead of the crucial Euro 2016 qualifier against Czech Republic on Tuesday.
"I felt that he was not fit enough to start. I think that's down to the fact that he has not played without pain for quite a while.
"He is pain free now and feels 100 per cent. But I want him to be fit enough to play the full 90 minutes. That's why I did not play him as support striker against Kazakhstan.
"He is fit enough for the match against Czech Republic, but I will have to make choices."
Van Persie came off the bench in the closing stages of the 2-1 win over Kazakhstan to earn his 100th cap, with some pundits suggesting his substitute cameo was a farewell gesture as Blind prepares to jettison the Fenerbahce forward.
"That is absolute nonsense," the head coach said.
"We had agreed that I would get him on if we needed a goal, but I also thought it was only logical to give him his 100th cap because the game was already decided.
"I had to wait for my third substitution for a bit, though. I talked about that with Robin and he understood me. I find it baffling that people don't get that."
Sakho slams PSG for letting Coman leave
Liverpool centre-back Mamadou Sakho has criticised Paris Saint-Germain for allowing youth product Kingsley Coman to slip through the net.
Coman left the Parc des Princes for Juventus in 2014, but was loaned out to Bayern Munich – where he has since scored twice in four Bundesliga appearances – ahead of the current campaign having failed to establish himself in Turin.
And Sakho, who also came through the PSG ranks before being moved on in 2013, believes that Coman's bright start to life at the Allianz Arena has highlighted the error of his former club's ways.
"I think it's a shame for Paris. He's a quality player who was there in Paris and was not given a chance," the defender told Canal Football Club.
"Everyone has their own policies but when I see a talent like that, who cannot emerge and express himself in his own city – and it's also a source of pride for the fans to see a youth product play in their colours – it's unfortunate.
"But it's a policy that I do not judge, I respect it, and the youngster can enjoy himself at Bayern. I congratulate him and encourage him to continue like that."
Liverpool centre-back Mamadou Sakho has criticised Paris Saint-Germain for allowing youth product Kingsley Coman to slip through the net.
Coman left the Parc des Princes for Juventus in 2014, but was loaned out to Bayern Munich – where he has since scored twice in four Bundesliga appearances – ahead of the current campaign having failed to establish himself in Turin.
And Sakho, who also came through the PSG ranks before being moved on in 2013, believes that Coman's bright start to life at the Allianz Arena has highlighted the error of his former club's ways.
"I think it's a shame for Paris. He's a quality player who was there in Paris and was not given a chance," the defender told Canal Football Club.
"Everyone has their own policies but when I see a talent like that, who cannot emerge and express himself in his own city – and it's also a source of pride for the fans to see a youth product play in their colours – it's unfortunate.
"But it's a policy that I do not judge, I respect it, and the youngster can enjoy himself at Bayern. I congratulate him and encourage him to continue like that."
Mancini: It's time for Inter to beat Juventus again
Inter coach Roberto Mancini believes the time has come for the San Siro club to end a long winless run against Juventus when the sides meet in Serie A on Sunday.
Mancini's men were knocked off top spot by Fiorentina last weekend following a draw with Sampdoria and host the Scudetto holders when domestic action resumes.
Inter's last home win over Juventus was a 2-0 triumph under Jose Mourinho in September 2010 and Mancini is eager to repeat the feat.
"Beating Juventus will be important. We haven't beaten them at home for five years now, so I'd say it's time to do it again," Mancini is quoted as saying by La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"It's the Derby d'Italia – I'm sure it will be a great evening between two great teams. Now we have to play like Inter.
"It's a historic match, which automatically gives motivation. We have to be well prepared, because it brings particular pressures with it."
Mancini also offered assurances that Geoffrey Kondogbia will be available to feature, but was less certain over the chances of leading goalscorer Stevan Jovetic playing.
"Kondogbia is fine, he'll be available," the coach added. "Am I happy Steven Jovetic didn't play for Montenegro? I'll be even happier if he plays on Sunday."
Inter coach Roberto Mancini believes the time has come for the San Siro club to end a long winless run against Juventus when the sides meet in Serie A on Sunday.
Mancini's men were knocked off top spot by Fiorentina last weekend following a draw with Sampdoria and host the Scudetto holders when domestic action resumes.
Inter's last home win over Juventus was a 2-0 triumph under Jose Mourinho in September 2010 and Mancini is eager to repeat the feat.
"Beating Juventus will be important. We haven't beaten them at home for five years now, so I'd say it's time to do it again," Mancini is quoted as saying by La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"It's the Derby d'Italia – I'm sure it will be a great evening between two great teams. Now we have to play like Inter.
"It's a historic match, which automatically gives motivation. We have to be well prepared, because it brings particular pressures with it."
Mancini also offered assurances that Geoffrey Kondogbia will be available to feature, but was less certain over the chances of leading goalscorer Stevan Jovetic playing.
"Kondogbia is fine, he'll be available," the coach added. "Am I happy Steven Jovetic didn't play for Montenegro? I'll be even happier if he plays on Sunday."
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manuel Neuer and David de Gea are the best goalkeepers in the world, suggesting they are as good in their position as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are in theirs.
Neuer was voted the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) World's Best Goalkeeper in 2013 and 2014, while De Gea was named the Premier League's top shot-stopper in both 2012-13 and 2014-15.
"Neuer and De Gea are the best goalkeepers in the world," Ferguson was quoted as saying by Kicker. "And by quite some distance as well.
"You have Messi and Ronaldo as outfield players and then Neuer and De Gea as the goalkeepers' equivalent."
The former Manchester United manager signed De Gea from Atletico Madrid in 2011 when he was still in charge at Old Trafford and the Spain international has since made over 180 appearances in all competitions for United.
He was dropped in favour of Sergio Romero earlier this campaign as a proposed transfer to Real Madrid fell through, but was reinstated as United's No.1 after signing a contract renewal until 2019.
Neuer has been with Bayern since joining them from Schalke in 2011 and has since guided them to three Bundesliga titles, two DFB Pokals, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.
Klopp takes first Liverpool training session as new era begins
Jurgen Klopp took his first training session as Liverpool manager on Monday afternoon as he was finally able to commence his integration of a "recognisable brand" of football.
The 48-year-old, who has been tasked with defining the club’s style of play, led his group of players for the first time at Melwood. The session was scheduled for between 60-75 minutes, but it was under difficult conditions, with the squad depleted by injuries and international call-ups.
Along with his assistant Peter Krawietz and development coach Pepijn Lijnders, Klopp ran the rule over Philippe Coutinho, James Milner, Daniel Sturridge, Mamadou Sakho, Lucas, Alberto Moreno, Kolo Toure, Dejan Lovren and Joao Teixeira. Three young goalkeepers were also put to the test.
Klopp gathered those present in a huddle prior to the workout, and delivered a passionate message in just under five minutes. As he explained in his opening interview: “First of all I want to talk to them about football. It’s emotion inside, it’s speed. It’s a transition game."
The German had to do without his other assistant, Zeljko Buvac, who has yet to arrive on Merseyside. Also unavailable were captain Jordan Henderson and two of the club’s biggest-ever purchases in Christian Benteke and Roberto Firmino, who have all been sidelined with injuries of varying seriousness.
Adam Lallana, Danny Ings and Nathaniel Clyne are still away with England, while Joe Gomez and Jordon Ibe are reporting for the country’s Under-21s. Simon Mignolet and Divock Origi are representing Belgium, Joe Allen is with Wales, Emre Can will be returning from his outing with Germany, and Martin Skrtel is readying for Slovakia’s clash in Luxembourg.
Klopp will use these early days at Melwood to “listen, see, feel - and then think about what to change.” He has already undertaken some sessions of his own at the complex in West Derby. The German has been studying videos of Liverpool’s performances this season since Friday, and spent Saturday morning at the Academy watching the U18s' victory over Stoke.
He has encouraged the club’s starlets by revealing his enthusiasm over their promise. “We all know the best players of today,” he told Bild. “Tomorrow we don't know who it will be, so we can work on this. When I manage a club, each young player should smile because the chance is bigger for them than it ever was."
Klopp’s ability to turn potential into end product as well as his experience of making a non-stellar squad more than the sum of its parts explains why Fenway Sports Group tried to lure him to Anfield on two previous occasions before finally landing his signature.
Klopp has a tough start to his Liverpool tenure though, with the club’s next three Premier League away trips taking him to Tottenham before daunting visits to Chelsea and Manchester City.
Jurgen Klopp took his first training session as Liverpool manager on Monday afternoon as he was finally able to commence his integration of a "recognisable brand" of football.
The 48-year-old, who has been tasked with defining the club’s style of play, led his group of players for the first time at Melwood. The session was scheduled for between 60-75 minutes, but it was under difficult conditions, with the squad depleted by injuries and international call-ups.
Along with his assistant Peter Krawietz and development coach Pepijn Lijnders, Klopp ran the rule over Philippe Coutinho, James Milner, Daniel Sturridge, Mamadou Sakho, Lucas, Alberto Moreno, Kolo Toure, Dejan Lovren and Joao Teixeira. Three young goalkeepers were also put to the test.
Klopp gathered those present in a huddle prior to the workout, and delivered a passionate message in just under five minutes. As he explained in his opening interview: “First of all I want to talk to them about football. It’s emotion inside, it’s speed. It’s a transition game."
The German had to do without his other assistant, Zeljko Buvac, who has yet to arrive on Merseyside. Also unavailable were captain Jordan Henderson and two of the club’s biggest-ever purchases in Christian Benteke and Roberto Firmino, who have all been sidelined with injuries of varying seriousness.
Adam Lallana, Danny Ings and Nathaniel Clyne are still away with England, while Joe Gomez and Jordon Ibe are reporting for the country’s Under-21s. Simon Mignolet and Divock Origi are representing Belgium, Joe Allen is with Wales, Emre Can will be returning from his outing with Germany, and Martin Skrtel is readying for Slovakia’s clash in Luxembourg.
Klopp will use these early days at Melwood to “listen, see, feel - and then think about what to change.” He has already undertaken some sessions of his own at the complex in West Derby. The German has been studying videos of Liverpool’s performances this season since Friday, and spent Saturday morning at the Academy watching the U18s' victory over Stoke.
He has encouraged the club’s starlets by revealing his enthusiasm over their promise. “We all know the best players of today,” he told Bild. “Tomorrow we don't know who it will be, so we can work on this. When I manage a club, each young player should smile because the chance is bigger for them than it ever was."
Klopp’s ability to turn potential into end product as well as his experience of making a non-stellar squad more than the sum of its parts explains why Fenway Sports Group tried to lure him to Anfield on two previous occasions before finally landing his signature.
Klopp has a tough start to his Liverpool tenure though, with the club’s next three Premier League away trips taking him to Tottenham before daunting visits to Chelsea and Manchester City.
Liverpool academy 'buzzing' as Klopp watches win over Stoke City
Liverpool academy players Ovie Ejaria and Corey Whelan revealed that youth team was "buzzing" at the sight of newly appointed manager Jurgen Klopp watching the under-18's 1-0 win over Stoke City.
Klopp was reveled as Liverpool manager on Friday in a media conference in which he dubbed himself the "normal one", proceeding to spend his Saturday morning watching the club's youth side at the Kirkby Academy.
And Ejaria, the scorer of the winning goal against Stoke, spoke of the positive message that the former Borussia Dortmund head coach sent out by attending the match.
"Everyone was buzzing," he told the club's official website.
"Obviously first impressions are important and it was a great feeling to be able to play in front of him already."
And Ejaria's team-mate Whelan was also delighted to see the Swabian at the academy, suggesting that the youth players are desperate to impress the double Bundesliga-winning coach.
"Everyone is trying to make a first impression on him and trying to get our way up to Melwood," Whelan added, also speaking to the club's official website.
"Knowing that he was watching us was a great feeling.”
Klopp's first chance to see the senior Liverpool players in action will come at White Hart Lane on Saturday as the Anfield club travel to an in-form Tottenham.
Liverpool academy players Ovie Ejaria and Corey Whelan revealed that youth team was "buzzing" at the sight of newly appointed manager Jurgen Klopp watching the under-18's 1-0 win over Stoke City.
Klopp was reveled as Liverpool manager on Friday in a media conference in which he dubbed himself the "normal one", proceeding to spend his Saturday morning watching the club's youth side at the Kirkby Academy.
And Ejaria, the scorer of the winning goal against Stoke, spoke of the positive message that the former Borussia Dortmund head coach sent out by attending the match.
"Everyone was buzzing," he told the club's official website.
"Obviously first impressions are important and it was a great feeling to be able to play in front of him already."
And Ejaria's team-mate Whelan was also delighted to see the Swabian at the academy, suggesting that the youth players are desperate to impress the double Bundesliga-winning coach.
"Everyone is trying to make a first impression on him and trying to get our way up to Melwood," Whelan added, also speaking to the club's official website.
"Knowing that he was watching us was a great feeling.”
Klopp's first chance to see the senior Liverpool players in action will come at White Hart Lane on Saturday as the Anfield club travel to an in-form Tottenham.
Klopp will not ruin his reputation by raiding Dortmund - Rauball
Borussia Dortmund president Reinhard Rauball does not fear newly appointed Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will try to sign players from his former club.
Liverpool have been linked with a host of BVB stars over the past few days, including Marco Reus, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Ilkay Gundogan, but Rauball is confident Klopp will not undermine his standing at Westfalenstadion by raiding the club he coached between 2008 and 2015.
But Klopp himself has assured he has no intention of raiding the Dortmund ranks, a sentiment backed by Rauball.
"Klopp is a very intelligent man and he won't destroy his own reputation in Dortmund by signing players from us," the president told Omnisport.
"No one in Dortmund will forget Klopp and no one will forget the great things he did for Borussia Dormund."
Klopp guided Dortmund to two Bundesliga titles during his seven-year spell and Liverpool are hopeful he can make a similar impact at Anfield.
Rauball has little doubt Klopp can achieve just that and does not think the pressure will cause the ex-Dortmund coach any problems.
"The fans in Liverpool are really ambitious and they want to see great football and they aim to rank among the top four. So the expectations are high," he explained
"But Klopp knows that and he made a very good case for himself on his first day at Liverpool. He said that he feels very comfortable in Liverpool like he did at Borussia Dortmund and so it could be a really great story for Liverpool and Klopp.
"Klopp's move to Liverpool is great. I know Jurgen very well since he managed Borussia Dortmund and so it is not surprising to me that he has already captured everybody's heart around Liverpool.
"He has won the hearts of Borussia Dortmund's fans during his time there and now he does exactly the same at Liverpool."
Borussia Dortmund president Reinhard Rauball does not fear newly appointed Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will try to sign players from his former club.
Liverpool have been linked with a host of BVB stars over the past few days, including Marco Reus, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Ilkay Gundogan, but Rauball is confident Klopp will not undermine his standing at Westfalenstadion by raiding the club he coached between 2008 and 2015.
But Klopp himself has assured he has no intention of raiding the Dortmund ranks, a sentiment backed by Rauball.
"Klopp is a very intelligent man and he won't destroy his own reputation in Dortmund by signing players from us," the president told Omnisport.
"No one in Dortmund will forget Klopp and no one will forget the great things he did for Borussia Dormund."
Klopp guided Dortmund to two Bundesliga titles during his seven-year spell and Liverpool are hopeful he can make a similar impact at Anfield.
Rauball has little doubt Klopp can achieve just that and does not think the pressure will cause the ex-Dortmund coach any problems.
"The fans in Liverpool are really ambitious and they want to see great football and they aim to rank among the top four. So the expectations are high," he explained
"But Klopp knows that and he made a very good case for himself on his first day at Liverpool. He said that he feels very comfortable in Liverpool like he did at Borussia Dortmund and so it could be a really great story for Liverpool and Klopp.
"Klopp's move to Liverpool is great. I know Jurgen very well since he managed Borussia Dortmund and so it is not surprising to me that he has already captured everybody's heart around Liverpool.
"He has won the hearts of Borussia Dortmund's fans during his time there and now he does exactly the same at Liverpool."
Neymar brushes off anti-Barca campaign questions
Barcelona forward Neymar gave short shrift to journalists on Monday after being asked if he felt there was a campaign against the Catalan club.
The club's star man Lionel Messi faces a court trial over alleged tax evasion offences, while Neymar has had €42 million worth of assets frozen as an investigation continues into his move to the club in 2013.
Javier Mascherano has also been charged with two counts of fraud, leading to suggestions Barca are being targeted by Spanish authorities, though Neymar has refused to engage in the debate.
"An anti-Barca campaign? I am going to find out and I will let you know," he said to an AS journalist.
The Brazil captain, who is currently negotiating a new contract with the Catalans which could extend his deal through to 2020, also refused to speak about the talks.
"You'll see what happens later," he added.
Barcelona forward Neymar gave short shrift to journalists on Monday after being asked if he felt there was a campaign against the Catalan club.
The club's star man Lionel Messi faces a court trial over alleged tax evasion offences, while Neymar has had €42 million worth of assets frozen as an investigation continues into his move to the club in 2013.
Javier Mascherano has also been charged with two counts of fraud, leading to suggestions Barca are being targeted by Spanish authorities, though Neymar has refused to engage in the debate.
"An anti-Barca campaign? I am going to find out and I will let you know," he said to an AS journalist.
The Brazil captain, who is currently negotiating a new contract with the Catalans which could extend his deal through to 2020, also refused to speak about the talks.
"You'll see what happens later," he added.
Tevez cannot operate like Messi - Martino
Gerardo Martino does not believe that Carlos Tevez can compensate for the absence of Lionel Messi in the Argentina squad.
The Barcelona star was sidelined by a knee injury last month and will miss the World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay, Brazil and Colombia.
Martino's woes increased with news that Sergio Aguero would be out for a month after going off injured in the 2-0 World Cup 2018 qualifying defeat to Ecuador.
But the coach does not feel those absences put pressure on Tevez to lead the side against Paraguay on Tuesday because he is a different type of player.
"Tevez cannot do Messi's role because Lionel plays like a number seven and I do not see Carlos playing there," Martino said.
"For Carlos it does not suit him at all to go to the wings. He can play in the position that he did at Juventus or how he does now at Boca."
Injury has also ruled out Lucas Biglia for the 2015 Copa America runners-up, while Ezequiel Garay departed in order to be present at the birth of his child.
"The team that steps onto the pitch will be up to the task. The amount of players missing isn't an excuse for us," Martino added.
"We called 28 players, we saw the problems that we could have, and more appeared."
The 52-year-old is simply focused on getting points on the board against Paraguay, who they beat 6-1 in the second of their two meetings at the Copa America, without compromising his ideals.
"I find it very difficult to think about winning without a good performance. The match is very important," Martino continued.
"There is an idea we are trying to accomplish and that idea has solutions to the problems.
"We don't negotiate on our style of play. You can have modifications according to the opponent. For instance, there is a solution to the damage from Ecuador.
"The two Copa America matches with Paraguay were similar. I imagine we will take charge of the game."
Gerardo Martino does not believe that Carlos Tevez can compensate for the absence of Lionel Messi in the Argentina squad.
The Barcelona star was sidelined by a knee injury last month and will miss the World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay, Brazil and Colombia.
Martino's woes increased with news that Sergio Aguero would be out for a month after going off injured in the 2-0 World Cup 2018 qualifying defeat to Ecuador.
But the coach does not feel those absences put pressure on Tevez to lead the side against Paraguay on Tuesday because he is a different type of player.
"Tevez cannot do Messi's role because Lionel plays like a number seven and I do not see Carlos playing there," Martino said.
"For Carlos it does not suit him at all to go to the wings. He can play in the position that he did at Juventus or how he does now at Boca."
Injury has also ruled out Lucas Biglia for the 2015 Copa America runners-up, while Ezequiel Garay departed in order to be present at the birth of his child.
"The team that steps onto the pitch will be up to the task. The amount of players missing isn't an excuse for us," Martino added.
"We called 28 players, we saw the problems that we could have, and more appeared."
The 52-year-old is simply focused on getting points on the board against Paraguay, who they beat 6-1 in the second of their two meetings at the Copa America, without compromising his ideals.
"I find it very difficult to think about winning without a good performance. The match is very important," Martino continued.
"There is an idea we are trying to accomplish and that idea has solutions to the problems.
"We don't negotiate on our style of play. You can have modifications according to the opponent. For instance, there is a solution to the damage from Ecuador.
"The two Copa America matches with Paraguay were similar. I imagine we will take charge of the game."
Ancelotti: Roma the strongest team in Serie A
Carlo Ancelotti believes Roma are the Serie A team with the most quality, but refused to back them as the favourites in a "very strange" title race.
The Giallorossi are currently four points behind league leaders Fiorentina, having suffered just one defeat, but they sit six ahead of reigning champions Juventus, who have won just twice this term.
Ancelotti thinks Rudi Garcia has impressive talent at his disposal and is concerned by the defensive issues AC Milan and Inter are struggling with despite a prosperous summer transfer market.
"It is truly a very strange campaign – it is open and absolutely anything could happen," the 56-year-old told Corriere dello Sport .
"Fiorentina are doing very well and they have surprised the big clubs, who changed a great deal over the summer. They are on top and tied to the uncertainty of who will be there at the end.
"We do not know who will win the title, maybe even Fiorentina, Napoli or Roma, or Juventus could fight back.
"Roma are the side with the most quality and they can win the Scudetto. In attack there is Edin Dzeko, Mohamed Salah, Gervinho and Iago Falque, plus Francesco Totti. In the middle Radja Nainggolan and Miralem Pjanic bring equal doses of strength and technique.
"There are only a few problems at the back, but right now they seem to be the most reliable team. Daniele De Rossi playing in defence is a bit of a fad after Javier Mascherano at Barcelona and Javi Martinez at Bayern Munich.
"It is disconcerting that Milan and Inter have conceded so many goals, especially as they brought in players of a very high level like Miranda, Jeison Murillo, Geoffrey Kondogbia, Carlos Bacca and Luiz Adriano - all players that the biggest clubs in Europe wanted.
"I have only seen Napoli once, against Empoli in what was perhaps their worst performance. I do like the team for their organisation, speed and technique. Napoli can absolutely win the Scudetto.
"I really liked Maurizio Sarri's Empoli last season, as they were a dynamic side with a precise identity and attacking football. If the quality of the Napoli players marries the quality of Sarri's organisation, then the fans will have fun."
Massimiliano Allegri's Juve have struggled in 2015-16 so far having won the title in the previous four seasons, but Ancelotti feels that is understandable.
The former Real Madrid coach added: "Juventus changed a great deal. Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal are formidable players, fundamental for their style of play and the level of the side.
"They were replaced by young players who still need to settle in. It is not easy to find an alternative to Pirlo from one day to the next. Claudio Marchisio would have fit the bill, but he has been injured and Allegri was forced to change within the change.
"However, in the most difficult games of the season, Juventus have done well, beating Manchester City and Sevilla."
Carlo Ancelotti believes Roma are the Serie A team with the most quality, but refused to back them as the favourites in a "very strange" title race.
The Giallorossi are currently four points behind league leaders Fiorentina, having suffered just one defeat, but they sit six ahead of reigning champions Juventus, who have won just twice this term.
Ancelotti thinks Rudi Garcia has impressive talent at his disposal and is concerned by the defensive issues AC Milan and Inter are struggling with despite a prosperous summer transfer market.
"It is truly a very strange campaign – it is open and absolutely anything could happen," the 56-year-old told Corriere dello Sport .
"Fiorentina are doing very well and they have surprised the big clubs, who changed a great deal over the summer. They are on top and tied to the uncertainty of who will be there at the end.
"We do not know who will win the title, maybe even Fiorentina, Napoli or Roma, or Juventus could fight back.
"Roma are the side with the most quality and they can win the Scudetto. In attack there is Edin Dzeko, Mohamed Salah, Gervinho and Iago Falque, plus Francesco Totti. In the middle Radja Nainggolan and Miralem Pjanic bring equal doses of strength and technique.
"There are only a few problems at the back, but right now they seem to be the most reliable team. Daniele De Rossi playing in defence is a bit of a fad after Javier Mascherano at Barcelona and Javi Martinez at Bayern Munich.
"It is disconcerting that Milan and Inter have conceded so many goals, especially as they brought in players of a very high level like Miranda, Jeison Murillo, Geoffrey Kondogbia, Carlos Bacca and Luiz Adriano - all players that the biggest clubs in Europe wanted.
"I have only seen Napoli once, against Empoli in what was perhaps their worst performance. I do like the team for their organisation, speed and technique. Napoli can absolutely win the Scudetto.
"I really liked Maurizio Sarri's Empoli last season, as they were a dynamic side with a precise identity and attacking football. If the quality of the Napoli players marries the quality of Sarri's organisation, then the fans will have fun."
Massimiliano Allegri's Juve have struggled in 2015-16 so far having won the title in the previous four seasons, but Ancelotti feels that is understandable.
The former Real Madrid coach added: "Juventus changed a great deal. Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal are formidable players, fundamental for their style of play and the level of the side.
"They were replaced by young players who still need to settle in. It is not easy to find an alternative to Pirlo from one day to the next. Claudio Marchisio would have fit the bill, but he has been injured and Allegri was forced to change within the change.
"However, in the most difficult games of the season, Juventus have done well, beating Manchester City and Sevilla."
Messi is the best player of last decade - Pele
Brazilian football legend Pele has named Lionel Messi as the greatest footballer of the last decade, as he also paid tribute to Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Argentine and Portuguese stars have dominated the Fifa Ballon d'Or award given to the sport's most accomplished performer over the past 10 years.
And Neymar, Messi's team-mate at Barcelona and the Brazil captain, is also tipped by many to win the prestigious prize.
For Pele, however, the Argentine is the pick of the bunch.
"It's very difficult to make a comparison of players of different generations. But in last 10 years Messi was the best. Ronaldo plays forward and tries to score, while Messi plays with a different style," the ex-Santos and New York Cosmos idol told a press conference while on a trip to India.
"In my team I would love to have both... We have Neymar who also has a good future."
Despite the great changes in football since Pele's heyday, the 74-year-old argued that he still could have been a successful player in the modern era.
"No doubt football today is tougher than before but when God gifts you to play football it's the same in any generation. Football is all about skill. I'm sure Beto would have been equally successful had he played in this era," he considered.
And the Brazilian also ruled himself out of the reckoning to succeed Sepp Blatter as the next Fifa president, stating he "had no intention" of running for the post.
Brazilian football legend Pele has named Lionel Messi as the greatest footballer of the last decade, as he also paid tribute to Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Argentine and Portuguese stars have dominated the Fifa Ballon d'Or award given to the sport's most accomplished performer over the past 10 years.
And Neymar, Messi's team-mate at Barcelona and the Brazil captain, is also tipped by many to win the prestigious prize.
For Pele, however, the Argentine is the pick of the bunch.
"It's very difficult to make a comparison of players of different generations. But in last 10 years Messi was the best. Ronaldo plays forward and tries to score, while Messi plays with a different style," the ex-Santos and New York Cosmos idol told a press conference while on a trip to India.
"In my team I would love to have both... We have Neymar who also has a good future."
Despite the great changes in football since Pele's heyday, the 74-year-old argued that he still could have been a successful player in the modern era.
"No doubt football today is tougher than before but when God gifts you to play football it's the same in any generation. Football is all about skill. I'm sure Beto would have been equally successful had he played in this era," he considered.
And the Brazilian also ruled himself out of the reckoning to succeed Sepp Blatter as the next Fifa president, stating he "had no intention" of running for the post.
Lithuania 0-3 England: Hodgson’s men finish Euro 2016 qualifying with 100% record
England cruised to a 3-0 victory over Lithuania in Vilnius on Monday to ensure they finished their Group E qualifying campaign with a perfect 10 wins from as many matches.
Ross Barkley opened the scoring with a deflected effort midway through the first half and it was two before the break when Harry Kane's shot bounced in off Giedrius Arlauskis for an own goal.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain sealed the three points with a powerful strike after the break, while Danny Ings came off the substitutes' bench to make his England debut.
The win means Roy Hodgson's side are the only team in Euro 2016 qualification to finish with a 100 per cent record and just the sixth team ever to do so in the history of European Championship qualification.
England made eight changes from their last game against Estonia, with Adam Lallana, Barkley and Kane the only players to remain in the starting XI.
Early on, Kane cut inside from the left and Arlauskis did well to push his shot wide, before the Tottenham striker forced the goalkeeper into another parried save after Lallana's pass.
Kane was looking the most likely source of a goal and did well to receive Barkley's pass and turn on the edge of the area before testing Arlauskis with his third effort of the opening stages.
The same duo combined again as England took the lead after 29 minutes. This time it was Kane who fed Barkley and the Everton star's long-range shot deflected off Tomas Mikuckis and bounced in via the post.
Lithuania threatened for the first time when a quick break led to Fedor Cernych finding Lukas Spalvis, whose shot from the edge of the area was pushed away in a good one-handed save from Jack Butland.
England doubled their lead 10 minutes before the break. Kane and Lallana linked up with a neat one-two and the 22-year-old's shot hit the near post before bouncing back in off Arlauskis.
It should have been three for England early in the second half after Oxlade-Chamberlain seized on an error from Linas Klimavicius down the right.
The Arsenal man squared for Kane, who saw his initial effort saved by Arlauskis, before his poorly struck left-footed follow-up was blocked by Georgas Freidgeimas.
From the resulting Lallana corner, Barkley diverted a strong header towards the bottom corner but Arlauskis got down well to deny him.
The third goal did arrive in the 62nd minute. Kyle Walker made a timely interception and slipped a pass through to Oxlade-Chamberlain, with the winger blasting his shot high past Arlauskis, who could not make a save at the near post.
Ings struck a powerful shot towards goal as he looked to mark his debut in style, but Arlauskis was equal to it as England concluded qualifying with 31 goals scored in the group and only three conceded.
England cruised to a 3-0 victory over Lithuania in Vilnius on Monday to ensure they finished their Group E qualifying campaign with a perfect 10 wins from as many matches.
Ross Barkley opened the scoring with a deflected effort midway through the first half and it was two before the break when Harry Kane's shot bounced in off Giedrius Arlauskis for an own goal.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain sealed the three points with a powerful strike after the break, while Danny Ings came off the substitutes' bench to make his England debut.
The win means Roy Hodgson's side are the only team in Euro 2016 qualification to finish with a 100 per cent record and just the sixth team ever to do so in the history of European Championship qualification.
England made eight changes from their last game against Estonia, with Adam Lallana, Barkley and Kane the only players to remain in the starting XI.
Early on, Kane cut inside from the left and Arlauskis did well to push his shot wide, before the Tottenham striker forced the goalkeeper into another parried save after Lallana's pass.
Kane was looking the most likely source of a goal and did well to receive Barkley's pass and turn on the edge of the area before testing Arlauskis with his third effort of the opening stages.
The same duo combined again as England took the lead after 29 minutes. This time it was Kane who fed Barkley and the Everton star's long-range shot deflected off Tomas Mikuckis and bounced in via the post.
Lithuania threatened for the first time when a quick break led to Fedor Cernych finding Lukas Spalvis, whose shot from the edge of the area was pushed away in a good one-handed save from Jack Butland.
England doubled their lead 10 minutes before the break. Kane and Lallana linked up with a neat one-two and the 22-year-old's shot hit the near post before bouncing back in off Arlauskis.
It should have been three for England early in the second half after Oxlade-Chamberlain seized on an error from Linas Klimavicius down the right.
The Arsenal man squared for Kane, who saw his initial effort saved by Arlauskis, before his poorly struck left-footed follow-up was blocked by Georgas Freidgeimas.
From the resulting Lallana corner, Barkley diverted a strong header towards the bottom corner but Arlauskis got down well to deny him.
The third goal did arrive in the 62nd minute. Kyle Walker made a timely interception and slipped a pass through to Oxlade-Chamberlain, with the winger blasting his shot high past Arlauskis, who could not make a save at the near post.
Ings struck a powerful shot towards goal as he looked to mark his debut in style, but Arlauskis was equal to it as England concluded qualifying with 31 goals scored in the group and only three conceded.
Ukraine 0-1 Spain: Fabregas misses penalty on 100th appearance
Captain Cesc Fabregas missed a penalty on his 100th international appearance as Mario Gaspar's debut goal earned Spain a 1-0 win over Ukraine in Kiev on Monday.
With Spain having already sealed their Euro 2016 place, the Chelsea man skippered a youthful XI but failed to cap his special night with a goal, instead seeing a penalty saved after defender Mario scored the crucial strike midway through the first half.
The Villarreal full-back was one of two debutants in the visitors' defence, alongside Xabi Etxeita, but his well-taken header was enough to limit Ukrainian hopes of progression. Second-placed Slovakia did enough to go through with a 4-2 win in Luxembourg.
Fabregas should have made life more comfortable but failed to double the lead, with Mykhaylo Fomenko's side refusing to give up hope of snatching a top-two position after falling behind.
The 28-year-old - playing in front of a watching Jose Mourinho - was withdrawn shortly after the hour mark having missed his fourth spot-kick for Spain in as many attempts.
While it was a frustrating evening for Fabregas, the likes of Mario and Nolito bolstered their chances of featuring in France next year with strong displays, and David de Gea pulled off a string of impressive saves to leave Ukraine having to negotiate the play-offs.
Debutant Mario endured a tricky start in Kiev. He was outfoxed down the left early on by Artem Kravets, who cut inside and crossed only to see Ruslin Rotan fail to add the finish in the area.Milestone man Fabregas had Spain's first chance when he collected Isco's pass, surged through the middle, and fired narrowly over the crossbar nine minutes in.
Having first saved from Kravetz, De Gea then produced a magnificent reflex stop to deny Rotan with his right foot, before Mario headed Spain into the lead.Thiago Alcantara and Nolito combined down the left before the Bayern Munich man found Mario at the far post to ensure a dream debut for the full-back.
Just a minute later, Fabregas looked set to celebrate his landmark appearance with a goal having been fouled in the area by Oleksandr Kucher, but Andriy Pyatov produced a strong right-handed save to deny the skipper from the spot.
Spain were almost pegged back when Denys Garmash headed over amid pinball in the Spain box, with De Gea clearing a dangerous whipped free-kick from the left on the stroke of half-time.And Fomenko's men brought that momentum into the second half as the lively Andriy Yarmolenko twice went close to levelling, while Spain had the ball in the net courtesy of Mikel San Jose prior to the hour mark only for it to be ruled out for a foul in the build-up.
De Gea again showed his quality to palm away another Garmash header as Ukraine's increased pressure coincided with Luxembourg fighting back from 3-0 down to within a goal of Slovakia.
However, there was to be no turnaround in Luxembourg - Slovakia re-establishing a two-goal cushion - and Spain's much-changed back line shut out the hosts to extend their winning run to five matches.
Congratulations Spain!
VAMOS ESPANA
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Hodgson proud of England's perfect Euro 2016 qualifying record
Roy Hodgson insists England should be proud after beating Lithuania 3-0 on Monday to seal a perfect record in Group E of Euro 2016 qualification.
The victory in Vilnius came through strikes from Ross Barkley and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, either side of a Giedrius Arlauskis own goal.
England were the only team across all groups to achieve a 100 per cent record and it is only the sixth time the accomplishment has been achieved in European Championship qualifying history.
Hodgson insists such a record is no mean feat and urged his players to be proud of what they have done since the disappointment at the World cup last year.
"It is an achievement. We are very proud of the players' performance,” Hodgson told ITV.
"To get 10 wins out of 10 it is never easy in these qualifying groups, so we have got to be satisfied with it and take a bit of pride in it.
"I thought it was excellent the way they went about their business here, especially in the first half where I thought we were so dominant.
"In the second half of course the game, if anything, got a little bit too easy for us but there was still a lot of hard work being put in and I thought the quality of our play was good."
The former Liverpool boss was impressed with the way a number of his fringe players performed and admitted they had boosted their chances of making the final squad for next year's tournament.
"A lot of the players we have used [in the campaign] has been due of injuries but here we had the luxury of using all the players," he added.
"We put our subs on as well, so everyone who has been part of this trip for these two matches has been able to play some football for England. That may not always happen but it is good and I am pleased about that.
"The players who represented us did a terrific job and they have got to feel they have strengthened their chances of being considered when it comes to France.
"I know there is a lot of water to pass under the bridge before then but I really couldn't fault anybody - I thought it was an excellent performance, a totally dominant one.
"It was a nice way to end what has been an excellent qualifying campaign for us."
Roy Hodgson insists England should be proud after beating Lithuania 3-0 on Monday to seal a perfect record in Group E of Euro 2016 qualification.
The victory in Vilnius came through strikes from Ross Barkley and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, either side of a Giedrius Arlauskis own goal.
England were the only team across all groups to achieve a 100 per cent record and it is only the sixth time the accomplishment has been achieved in European Championship qualifying history.
Hodgson insists such a record is no mean feat and urged his players to be proud of what they have done since the disappointment at the World cup last year.
"It is an achievement. We are very proud of the players' performance,” Hodgson told ITV.
"To get 10 wins out of 10 it is never easy in these qualifying groups, so we have got to be satisfied with it and take a bit of pride in it.
"I thought it was excellent the way they went about their business here, especially in the first half where I thought we were so dominant.
"In the second half of course the game, if anything, got a little bit too easy for us but there was still a lot of hard work being put in and I thought the quality of our play was good."
The former Liverpool boss was impressed with the way a number of his fringe players performed and admitted they had boosted their chances of making the final squad for next year's tournament.
"A lot of the players we have used [in the campaign] has been due of injuries but here we had the luxury of using all the players," he added.
"We put our subs on as well, so everyone who has been part of this trip for these two matches has been able to play some football for England. That may not always happen but it is good and I am pleased about that.
"The players who represented us did a terrific job and they have got to feel they have strengthened their chances of being considered when it comes to France.
"I know there is a lot of water to pass under the bridge before then but I really couldn't fault anybody - I thought it was an excellent performance, a totally dominant one.
"It was a nice way to end what has been an excellent qualifying campaign for us."
Pele: Brazil a team of individuals
Brazil legend Pele says the national team are a team of individuals after they began their World Cup qualification campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Chile.
The Selecao have suffered a fall from grace in recent years after their 7-1 defeat to Germany at World Cup 2014 was followed by a quarter-final exit at this summer's Copa America.Pele dismissed suggestions the nation no longer had the same love for the game, but admitted the current side are not yet a tight unit.
"We have not lost passion for football. We have the best players for Brazil but unfortunately, we don't have time to prepare the team," Pele told reporters.
"Individual players are important but to have a good team you need to play together well as a team. That's the big problem. Individually we have the best players but as a team we've a lot of problems.
"In my time the players used to belong to the clubs but today players are managed by their agents. Presently we have a lot of problems in different positions of the field."
Brazil captain Neymar is currently suspended for a red card he received during their Copa elimination at the hands of Paraguay, having also had his World Cup cut short by injury.
Asked whether the Barcelona forward can lead Brazil back towards silverware on his return, Pele added: "I hope Neymar wins a trophy for Brazil, he hails from Santos, the club I used to play for.
"My son Edinho was the one who trained him, so I feel proud and happy. He has a good future. "Neymar, he could be one of the best players now, at the moment, no doubt."
Brazil legend Pele says the national team are a team of individuals after they began their World Cup qualification campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Chile.
The Selecao have suffered a fall from grace in recent years after their 7-1 defeat to Germany at World Cup 2014 was followed by a quarter-final exit at this summer's Copa America.Pele dismissed suggestions the nation no longer had the same love for the game, but admitted the current side are not yet a tight unit.
"We have not lost passion for football. We have the best players for Brazil but unfortunately, we don't have time to prepare the team," Pele told reporters.
"Individual players are important but to have a good team you need to play together well as a team. That's the big problem. Individually we have the best players but as a team we've a lot of problems.
"In my time the players used to belong to the clubs but today players are managed by their agents. Presently we have a lot of problems in different positions of the field."
Brazil captain Neymar is currently suspended for a red card he received during their Copa elimination at the hands of Paraguay, having also had his World Cup cut short by injury.
Asked whether the Barcelona forward can lead Brazil back towards silverware on his return, Pele added: "I hope Neymar wins a trophy for Brazil, he hails from Santos, the club I used to play for.
"My son Edinho was the one who trained him, so I feel proud and happy. He has a good future. "Neymar, he could be one of the best players now, at the moment, no doubt."
Del Bosque happy to have selection headache for Euro 2016
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque believes choosing a 23 man squad for Euro 2016 will be a difficult task after a host of fringe players impressed in the win over Ukraine on Monday.
The European champions capped off their qualification with a hard-fought 1-0 win in Kiev, with debutant Mario Gaspar on target while stand-in captain Cesc Fabregas missed a penalty on his 100th international appearance .
Full-back Mario was among a host of less-experienced players in the side but impressed alongside the likes of Nolito and fellow debutant Xabier Etxeita, while David de Gea proved unbeatable in goal.
It leaves Del Bosque with some tricky decisions as Spain target a third consecutive European title.
"All of them played well," the coach told reporters. "It is good to look at other players and ensure that they can help us.
"It will be a problem to choose just 23 players for Euro 2016, but there’s still a long way to go until then.
"We have solutions and that offers plenty of encouragement, because we have to see the options ahead of the Euros.
"The experience was a good one with all the changes we were able to make. We are happy. It is true we had more control of the game but they had their chances, with Andriy Yarmolenko and Yevhen Konoplyanka on the counter-attack.
"Ukraine played really well. David de Gea was great - so was Thiago Alacantara."
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque believes choosing a 23 man squad for Euro 2016 will be a difficult task after a host of fringe players impressed in the win over Ukraine on Monday.
The European champions capped off their qualification with a hard-fought 1-0 win in Kiev, with debutant Mario Gaspar on target while stand-in captain Cesc Fabregas missed a penalty on his 100th international appearance .
Full-back Mario was among a host of less-experienced players in the side but impressed alongside the likes of Nolito and fellow debutant Xabier Etxeita, while David de Gea proved unbeatable in goal.
It leaves Del Bosque with some tricky decisions as Spain target a third consecutive European title.
"All of them played well," the coach told reporters. "It is good to look at other players and ensure that they can help us.
"It will be a problem to choose just 23 players for Euro 2016, but there’s still a long way to go until then.
"We have solutions and that offers plenty of encouragement, because we have to see the options ahead of the Euros.
"The experience was a good one with all the changes we were able to make. We are happy. It is true we had more control of the game but they had their chances, with Andriy Yarmolenko and Yevhen Konoplyanka on the counter-attack.
"Ukraine played really well. David de Gea was great - so was Thiago Alacantara."
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