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Hodgson: England-France friendly will be a show of solidarity
England manager Roy Hodgson has passed on his condolences to those affected by the terror attacks in Paris, saying their upcoming friendly with France is a show of solidarity.
It has been confirmed that Tuesday's tie at Wembley will go ahead despite the tragedy, which included incidents at Stade de France during France's 2-0 friendly win over Germany.
Hodgson says he respects the determination of the French Football Federation (FFF) to fulfil the fixture, and is keen to ensure the occasion is handled appropriately.
“On behalf of the England coaching staff and players, I would like to pass on our heartfelt condolences to the French nation at this extremely difficult time,” he said in a statement released by the English FA.
“The events in Paris have left us all shocked and we are thinking of the victims, their loved ones and all those affected by these tragic events.
“Shortly after the match last night [Friday] the FA contacted the FFF to express our deep sympathy and ask if they wanted to go ahead with Tuesday’s scheduled game at Wembley Stadium.
“Today [Saturday] the FFF has informed us they would still like to play the fixture. We respect that decision and will prepare accordingly – both on and off the pitch.
“The match will be a serious occasion but one that shows that the football world is united against these atrocities.
“I’m sure the England team and our fans will play their part and show solidarity with our French friends on Tuesday evening and provide support for both teams during this difficult time.”
England manager Roy Hodgson has passed on his condolences to those affected by the terror attacks in Paris, saying their upcoming friendly with France is a show of solidarity.
It has been confirmed that Tuesday's tie at Wembley will go ahead despite the tragedy, which included incidents at Stade de France during France's 2-0 friendly win over Germany.
Hodgson says he respects the determination of the French Football Federation (FFF) to fulfil the fixture, and is keen to ensure the occasion is handled appropriately.
“On behalf of the England coaching staff and players, I would like to pass on our heartfelt condolences to the French nation at this extremely difficult time,” he said in a statement released by the English FA.
“The events in Paris have left us all shocked and we are thinking of the victims, their loved ones and all those affected by these tragic events.
“Shortly after the match last night [Friday] the FA contacted the FFF to express our deep sympathy and ask if they wanted to go ahead with Tuesday’s scheduled game at Wembley Stadium.
“Today [Saturday] the FFF has informed us they would still like to play the fixture. We respect that decision and will prepare accordingly – both on and off the pitch.
“The match will be a serious occasion but one that shows that the football world is united against these atrocities.
“I’m sure the England team and our fans will play their part and show solidarity with our French friends on Tuesday evening and provide support for both teams during this difficult time.”
Three dead at the Stade France: How a tragedy unfolded
It was 21:17 CET when the spectators and television viewers heard a first and then a second explosion close to Stade de France. It sounded like it might be the start of a fireworks display but was revealed to be something far graver. Asked by Infosport+, the president of the French Football Federation, Noel Le Graet, presented the facts he was aware of them: “A bomb exploded at the entrance of Gate J. There are three dead and several injured.”
This attack in front of Stade de France is only one of numerous dramatic episodes that have rocked Paris this Friday evening. At least three other shooters have been in the vicinity of the 10th and 11th arrondissements of the capital, and hostages have been taken at the Bataclan Theatre.
A rush occurred at Stade de France at the final whistle as the spectators were leaving the stadium. Our correspondent, Loic Tanzi, was present during this panic, forcing the security personnel to let dozens of new fans into the stadium. Several hundred of them took refuge on the pitch. An uneasy calm soon returned, and the PA was able to announce, at around 23:15, that the area around stadium was secure and that people could again leave through a single exit.
No press conference was to be given at Stade de France due to the serious nature of the incidents in Paris, which come 10 months after the city was rocked by the attacks centred on the office of the Charlie Hebdo magazine.
The initial information given by police is that there are at least 39 dead around the city. There are many police operations still running their course as authorities try to gain a handle on the situation. The president of the Republic, the prime minister and the minister of the interior are meeting at Place Beauvau to discuss the tragedy. The mayor of Paris and the chief of police have asked locals to stay at home and await instructions from authorities.
On social media, there has been an outpouring of solidarity from citizens, with the hashtag #PorteOuverte (open door) offering people on the streets of Paris somewhere to take refuge.
One France supporter, speaking to Loic Tanzi at Stade de France, recounted the moment of the explosion: “I was at Gate X and heard two huge explosions. At the time we thought it was a bomb and around the ground there was a sort of outcry. Then I received many text messages and it was then I understood. The atmosphere became cold around us.”
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Jones 'frightened' for Manchester United and England career after blood clot
Manchester United defender Phil Jones has revealed he was "frightened" after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his calf following the club's pre-season clash with Barcelona.
The 23-year-old picked up an injury during United’s summer tour of the United States, with club doctor Steve McNally identifying the problem as a blood clot despite Jones initially believing it to be a routine calf strain.
Jones was not allowed to participate in contact training during his time on the sidelines for fear the blood clot could spread, and the England international had now admitted he was scared.
"It was pretty frightening at first at least until I found out the extent of the injury," he told reporters.
"And then it was just about doing the right thing, and recovering well and making sure it went.
"It happened in pre-season against Barcelona and I just felt some tightness in my calf and it kept coming and didn’t go away.
"I thought nothing of it at first. We got back to England but a couple of days before we played Tottenham in the first game of the season I felt it again.
"I just said to the doctor at United ‘it’s just not going away’. So we had a scan then and discovered there was a blood clot in the calf.
"It is what it is. You can’t change that. It’s not from the tackle or a stupid injury, it was just a freak incident, just a freak thing. Now I’m on a blood thinning tablet."
Jones returned in United’s 3-0 victory over Ipswich in the League Cup at the end of September and is eager to look to the future, having also made his England comeback against Spain earlier on Friday.
He added: "It was probably the most frustrating time of my career, not being able to train with the squad or go anywhere near them.
"That’s gone now, that’s the past. I’m looking forward to the future. I’m glad to be back involved playing."
Manchester United defender Phil Jones has revealed he was "frightened" after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his calf following the club's pre-season clash with Barcelona.
The 23-year-old picked up an injury during United’s summer tour of the United States, with club doctor Steve McNally identifying the problem as a blood clot despite Jones initially believing it to be a routine calf strain.
Jones was not allowed to participate in contact training during his time on the sidelines for fear the blood clot could spread, and the England international had now admitted he was scared.
"It was pretty frightening at first at least until I found out the extent of the injury," he told reporters.
"And then it was just about doing the right thing, and recovering well and making sure it went.
"It happened in pre-season against Barcelona and I just felt some tightness in my calf and it kept coming and didn’t go away.
"I thought nothing of it at first. We got back to England but a couple of days before we played Tottenham in the first game of the season I felt it again.
"I just said to the doctor at United ‘it’s just not going away’. So we had a scan then and discovered there was a blood clot in the calf.
"It is what it is. You can’t change that. It’s not from the tackle or a stupid injury, it was just a freak incident, just a freak thing. Now I’m on a blood thinning tablet."
Jones returned in United’s 3-0 victory over Ipswich in the League Cup at the end of September and is eager to look to the future, having also made his England comeback against Spain earlier on Friday.
He added: "It was probably the most frustrating time of my career, not being able to train with the squad or go anywhere near them.
"That’s gone now, that’s the past. I’m looking forward to the future. I’m glad to be back involved playing."
Hodgson: England stars must not doubt themselves
England manager Roy Hodgson has urged his team not to be disheartened by defeat ahead of Tuesday's friendly with France.
The Three Lions were defeated 2-0 by Spain in Alicante on Friday after late strikes from Mario Gaspar and Santi Cazorla.
Following an undefeated Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, Hodgson hopes his younger players will not be affected by the setback as they continue their preparations against France.
"The most important thing to do now, when you haven’t lost for a long time and you get a defeat, if you’re not careful it can really dent your confidence," he told reporters.
"My coaching staff and I will work very hard to make certain that we have a realistic appraisal of the game and don’t allow the good things that these boys have been doing for a long period of time to suddenly go.
"Criticism comes from all corners, people listen and they might start doubting themselves.
"So my big thing will be with Ross Barkley, Adam Lallana, Raheem Sterling and these types of players will be to say, ‘Don’t doubt yourself, keep believing and keep doing it'."
Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy is likely to miss France's visit to Wembley Stadium on Tuesday after a hip and knee problem kept him out of the Spain clash.
The Premier League's top scorer injured himself in Leicester's draw with Watford and Hodgson remains pessimistic about the striker's chances of featuring.
"It will be touch and go because he came with the injury and we were hoping with the days and the treatment and rest that he would be a lot better," he said.
"I don’t think it is, so unless there is some real change in that respect then we wouldn’t take a risk with him. That would be unfair on Leicester.
"He would have to recover and be fit for us to play him and the chances aren’t more than 50-50."
England manager Roy Hodgson has urged his team not to be disheartened by defeat ahead of Tuesday's friendly with France.
The Three Lions were defeated 2-0 by Spain in Alicante on Friday after late strikes from Mario Gaspar and Santi Cazorla.
Following an undefeated Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, Hodgson hopes his younger players will not be affected by the setback as they continue their preparations against France.
"The most important thing to do now, when you haven’t lost for a long time and you get a defeat, if you’re not careful it can really dent your confidence," he told reporters.
"My coaching staff and I will work very hard to make certain that we have a realistic appraisal of the game and don’t allow the good things that these boys have been doing for a long period of time to suddenly go.
"Criticism comes from all corners, people listen and they might start doubting themselves.
"So my big thing will be with Ross Barkley, Adam Lallana, Raheem Sterling and these types of players will be to say, ‘Don’t doubt yourself, keep believing and keep doing it'."
Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy is likely to miss France's visit to Wembley Stadium on Tuesday after a hip and knee problem kept him out of the Spain clash.
The Premier League's top scorer injured himself in Leicester's draw with Watford and Hodgson remains pessimistic about the striker's chances of featuring.
"It will be touch and go because he came with the injury and we were hoping with the days and the treatment and rest that he would be a lot better," he said.
"I don’t think it is, so unless there is some real change in that respect then we wouldn’t take a risk with him. That would be unfair on Leicester.
"He would have to recover and be fit for us to play him and the chances aren’t more than 50-50."
Origi keen to feed off Klopp's energy
Liverpool striker Divock Origi is eager to feed off the "positive energy" generated by Jurgen Klopp.
The 20-year-old signed on a five-year contract from Lille in July 2014 and spent last season with the Ligue 1 club, but has now become a regular fixture in the Reds squad under the new boss.
Liverpool went six games unbeaten under the German coach prior to the international break, and the Belgium international is now hoping to transform Klopp’s enthusiasm into results on the pitch.
"If you look at the new manager, the immediate feeling is that he sends a lot of positive energy to everyone," he told the latest issue of the official Liverpool FC magazine.
"He likes to work with everybody and help them make progress and he has a clear plan. That has also come across in what I have seen in the first games he has been in charge.
"When you have a coach like this it means you have a leader who sends this energy to the group and we try to react for him in every way. I think it should be a good partnership for him and Liverpool."
Earlier in October, Klopp revealed he attempted to sign Origi while at Bourssia Dortmund.
Origi admits such comments offer him encouragement, although he insists it is still up to him to impress when given his chance in the absence of injured duo Daniel Sturridge and Danny Ings.
He continued: "I heard he said he'd been interested in signing me when he was at Bourssia Dortmund so that shows that he is aware of my qualities.
"That was nice to hear but eventually it is down to me to show what I can do on the pitch and I have to focus on that.
"Everybody at the club believes in me so I have to work hard and try to maximise every moment of playing time I get."
Liverpool striker Divock Origi is eager to feed off the "positive energy" generated by Jurgen Klopp.
The 20-year-old signed on a five-year contract from Lille in July 2014 and spent last season with the Ligue 1 club, but has now become a regular fixture in the Reds squad under the new boss.
Liverpool went six games unbeaten under the German coach prior to the international break, and the Belgium international is now hoping to transform Klopp’s enthusiasm into results on the pitch.
"If you look at the new manager, the immediate feeling is that he sends a lot of positive energy to everyone," he told the latest issue of the official Liverpool FC magazine.
"He likes to work with everybody and help them make progress and he has a clear plan. That has also come across in what I have seen in the first games he has been in charge.
"When you have a coach like this it means you have a leader who sends this energy to the group and we try to react for him in every way. I think it should be a good partnership for him and Liverpool."
Earlier in October, Klopp revealed he attempted to sign Origi while at Bourssia Dortmund.
Origi admits such comments offer him encouragement, although he insists it is still up to him to impress when given his chance in the absence of injured duo Daniel Sturridge and Danny Ings.
He continued: "I heard he said he'd been interested in signing me when he was at Bourssia Dortmund so that shows that he is aware of my qualities.
"That was nice to hear but eventually it is down to me to show what I can do on the pitch and I have to focus on that.
"Everybody at the club believes in me so I have to work hard and try to maximise every moment of playing time I get."
Chambers: I'm not down over Arsenal playing time
Calum Chambers insists he is not unhappy with his lack of playing time at Arsenal, stating he feels the Premier League leaders are still the best place for him to develop.
Chambers, who had only played 22 league games when he made his big-money switch to the Emirates from Southampton in July 2014, was reportedly a loan target for the Saints last summer.
The defender opted to remain at the Gunners and, despite seeing first-choice centre-back pairing Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny ahead of him, is happy with his role at the club.
"I feel I have learned so much over the last two years and I am happy," he is quoted as saying in The Daily Mail.
"I don't think it happened too quickly. It just happened very quickly. It was a whirlwind start but I took it game by game and I enjoyed it.
"At the moment, I have changed position to centre-back. I'm not getting so much game time but I am still working in training and trying to fight for my place.
"I'm not down or anything. When you are not in the team, you have to prepare for games as if you are in. You have to do everything the same.
"In training, Per always gives me advice. Laurent is the same.
"I feel I can go up to them and ask them anything and learn from them. I watch them in games all the time, learning and it is helping me get better and better."
Calum Chambers insists he is not unhappy with his lack of playing time at Arsenal, stating he feels the Premier League leaders are still the best place for him to develop.
Chambers, who had only played 22 league games when he made his big-money switch to the Emirates from Southampton in July 2014, was reportedly a loan target for the Saints last summer.
The defender opted to remain at the Gunners and, despite seeing first-choice centre-back pairing Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny ahead of him, is happy with his role at the club.
"I feel I have learned so much over the last two years and I am happy," he is quoted as saying in The Daily Mail.
"I don't think it happened too quickly. It just happened very quickly. It was a whirlwind start but I took it game by game and I enjoyed it.
"At the moment, I have changed position to centre-back. I'm not getting so much game time but I am still working in training and trying to fight for my place.
"I'm not down or anything. When you are not in the team, you have to prepare for games as if you are in. You have to do everything the same.
"In training, Per always gives me advice. Laurent is the same.
"I feel I can go up to them and ask them anything and learn from them. I watch them in games all the time, learning and it is helping me get better and better."
Madrid have no one to replace Ronaldo - Faubert
Former Real Madrid winger Julien Faubert believes Neymar will one day be a worthy successor to Lionel Messi at Barcelona, but feels his ex-club will struggle to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo became Madrid's all-time top scorer in October but has struggled to shine under Rafael Benitez this season, allowing Barcelona to surge into the lead in La Liga with Neymar deputising capably for the injured Messi.
Speaking ahead of next week's El Clasico clash, Faubert says the Brazilian is a ready-made replacement for his counterpart, whereas Gareth Bale is incapable of filling Ronaldo's boots.
"Neymar has the same quality and power that Messi and Ronaldo have. His level is very high," Faubert told AS.
"We do not know the same about Bale. After Messi, Barca will have Neymar, but after Ronaldo, we do not know what will happen to Madrid."
The once-capped France international also weighed in on who reigned between Messi and Ronaldo, stating the former is the more naturally-gifted of the duo.
He said: "Messi did not have to work too hard to get to his level.
"He is pure talent. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has had to work hard every day to reach his level."
Madrid star Karim Benzema could meanwhile face jail time after pleading guilty to his involvement in blackmailing Mathieu Valbuena in a sex-tape scandal, and his compatriot Faubert admitted the news took him aback.
"People are surprised. I love Benzema as a player and person, but what am I supposed to think now?" he continued.
Faubert had a six-month loan stint at los Blancos in 2009 and compared former team-mate Guti to Messi and Zinedine Zidane, while speaking about his sole experience in a Clasico - the infamous 6-2 hammering at the hands of Pep Guardiola's treble winners.
"Guti was like Zidane and Messi," Faubert recalled. "He saw football differently. He was a player worthy of the Ballon d'Or.
"It [the Clasico loss] had been a classic game. We were helpless. I remember how the Barcelona controlled the tempo of the game, with the technical excellence of Xavi [Hernandez], Messi and [Thierry] Henry."
After returning to West Ham from his loan, Faubert wound down his career with experiences in the Turkish Super Lig, and with Bordeaux in Ligue 1.
Former Real Madrid winger Julien Faubert believes Neymar will one day be a worthy successor to Lionel Messi at Barcelona, but feels his ex-club will struggle to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo became Madrid's all-time top scorer in October but has struggled to shine under Rafael Benitez this season, allowing Barcelona to surge into the lead in La Liga with Neymar deputising capably for the injured Messi.
Speaking ahead of next week's El Clasico clash, Faubert says the Brazilian is a ready-made replacement for his counterpart, whereas Gareth Bale is incapable of filling Ronaldo's boots.
"Neymar has the same quality and power that Messi and Ronaldo have. His level is very high," Faubert told AS.
"We do not know the same about Bale. After Messi, Barca will have Neymar, but after Ronaldo, we do not know what will happen to Madrid."
The once-capped France international also weighed in on who reigned between Messi and Ronaldo, stating the former is the more naturally-gifted of the duo.
He said: "Messi did not have to work too hard to get to his level.
"He is pure talent. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has had to work hard every day to reach his level."
Madrid star Karim Benzema could meanwhile face jail time after pleading guilty to his involvement in blackmailing Mathieu Valbuena in a sex-tape scandal, and his compatriot Faubert admitted the news took him aback.
"People are surprised. I love Benzema as a player and person, but what am I supposed to think now?" he continued.
Faubert had a six-month loan stint at los Blancos in 2009 and compared former team-mate Guti to Messi and Zinedine Zidane, while speaking about his sole experience in a Clasico - the infamous 6-2 hammering at the hands of Pep Guardiola's treble winners.
"Guti was like Zidane and Messi," Faubert recalled. "He saw football differently. He was a player worthy of the Ballon d'Or.
"It [the Clasico loss] had been a classic game. We were helpless. I remember how the Barcelona controlled the tempo of the game, with the technical excellence of Xavi [Hernandez], Messi and [Thierry] Henry."
After returning to West Ham from his loan, Faubert wound down his career with experiences in the Turkish Super Lig, and with Bordeaux in Ligue 1.
Scholes: Manchester United need goals, not Van Gaal's philosophy
Manchester United great Paul Scholes has continued his war of words with Louis van Gaal by stating the current crop need to stop focusing on the Dutchman's philosophy, and start playing attacking football.
Scholes, who won the Premier League title 11 times during his time at Old Trafford, has hit out over the last month at what he perceives to be a negative approach under United boss Van Gaal.
That drew a terse response from the Dutchman, who criticised Scholes' comments and insisted his side do take risks, but the former England international is sticking to his original assessment.
"It hasn't been great for 13 months, but I better not say too much because Louis might be listening," Scholes said at a charity event at Hotel Football.
"There's been talk of a philosophy, a process. For me, Manchester United don't need a philosophy.
"The fans want to see attacking football and goals - that's the Manchester United way."
The Red Devils currently sit fourth in the table, two points behind joint-Premier League leaders Manchester City and Arsenal.
However, Scholes did praise Van Gaal for bringing Jesse Lingard into the first team.
The 22-year-old has made seven appearances in all competitions for United this term and Scholes has been impressed by the midfielder.
"It's been good to see Lingard in the team. It's good to see a young lad come through the ranks and do well," he added.
"I thought he was United's best player against CSKA Moscow in the Champions League recently."
Lingard called-up to England squad for France clash
Manchester United winger Jesse Lingard has been called up to the England squad for their friendly clash against France on Tuesday.
The Under-21 international joins up with the team on Sunday ahead of their midweek clash after club-mate Michael Carrick and Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy were both were ruled out through injury.
Carrick was stretched off in England's 2-0 defeat to Spain in Alicante on Friday while Premier League top-scorer Vardy is yet to add to his four caps after picking up a knock in Leicester's victory over Watford.
Lingard, who joins the senior squad for the first time, made 11 appearances at Under-21 level and scored against Sweden to secure the Young Lions' only victory in a disappointing European Championship in June.
The 22-year-old's selection comes after a string of impressive appearances for the Red Devils, taking the place of Memphis Depay to score his first goal in a 2-0 Premier League win over West Brom.
When asked about the possibility of an England call-up from Roy Hodgson, manager Louis Van Gaal insisted it is "much too early" for him to link up with the squad and urged him to show consistency.
Full England Squad:
Goalkeepers: Jack Butland (Stoke City), Joe Hart (Manchester City), Tom Heaton (Burnley).
Defenders: Ryan Bertrand (Southampton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool), Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), John Stones (Everton), Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur).
Midfielders: Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur), Ross Barkley (Everton), Fabian Delph (Manchester City), Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur), Adam Lallana (Liverpool), Jesse Lingard (Manchester United), Jonjo Shelvey (Swansea City), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City).
Forwards: Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United).
Kane targets Rooney's England goalscoring record
Tottenham striker Harry Kane is hopeful he can emulate Wayne Rooney's goalscoring record for England .
Manchester United forward Rooney became England's all-time leading goalscorer by netting his 50th goal for his country with a penalty in a 2-0 win over Switzerland in September.
Kane was also on target in that game and could feature alongside Rooney when England host France at Wembley on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old has scored six goals in his last four appearances for Tottenham after failing to register in his first eight games of the season.
And he is hopeful playing with Rooney will enable him to be prolific in front of goal for England, saying: "Obviously it's an amazing achievement for Wayne to be England's all-time top goalscorer.
"I've just started on the England international scene but hopefully one day that could be me, scoring that many goals, but I know there is a long way to go before then and a lot of hard work.
"It's just about doing what I can for now and doing things right, trying to score as many goals as possible.
"Maybe in 10 years we'll see where I'm at. Hopefully still playing for England and still playing at a high>
Tottenham striker Harry Kane is hopeful he can emulate Wayne Rooney's goalscoring record for England .
Manchester United forward Rooney became England's all-time leading goalscorer by netting his 50th goal for his country with a penalty in a 2-0 win over Switzerland in September.
Kane was also on target in that game and could feature alongside Rooney when England host France at Wembley on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old has scored six goals in his last four appearances for Tottenham after failing to register in his first eight games of the season.
And he is hopeful playing with Rooney will enable him to be prolific in front of goal for England, saying: "Obviously it's an amazing achievement for Wayne to be England's all-time top goalscorer.
"I've just started on the England international scene but hopefully one day that could be me, scoring that many goals, but I know there is a long way to go before then and a lot of hard work.
"It's just about doing what I can for now and doing things right, trying to score as many goals as possible.
"Maybe in 10 years we'll see where I'm at. Hopefully still playing for England and still playing at a high>
Thiago ruled out for 'just a few weeks'
Thiago Alcantara has revealed he will be out for just "a few weeks" after suffering a knee injury while on international duty.
The Bayern Munich midfielder limped off in first half of Spain's friendly clash with England and was replaced by Arsenal's Santi Cazorla.
There were fears that Thiago could be sidelined for a long period as the 24-year-old has a history of suffering major injuries since joining the Bundesliga club when Pep Guardiola took over in 2013.
But the former Barcelona man has allayed fears he will be out for an extended period by taking to Twitter to explain his injury.
"Fortunately I will be out just for a few weeks. Thanks for your support messages," he wrote.
Despite avoiding a serious problem, Thiago could still miss Bundesliga clashes against Schalke and Borussia Monchengladbach as well as their Champions League meeting with Olympiacos.
Thiago Alcantara has revealed he will be out for just "a few weeks" after suffering a knee injury while on international duty.
The Bayern Munich midfielder limped off in first half of Spain's friendly clash with England and was replaced by Arsenal's Santi Cazorla.
There were fears that Thiago could be sidelined for a long period as the 24-year-old has a history of suffering major injuries since joining the Bundesliga club when Pep Guardiola took over in 2013.
But the former Barcelona man has allayed fears he will be out for an extended period by taking to Twitter to explain his injury.
"Fortunately I will be out just for a few weeks. Thanks for your support messages," he wrote.
Despite avoiding a serious problem, Thiago could still miss Bundesliga clashes against Schalke and Borussia Monchengladbach as well as their Champions League meeting with Olympiacos.
Schweinsteiger and Neuer to miss Germany friendly with Netherlands
Bastian Schweinsteiger and Manuel Neuer are set to miss Germany's friendly with the Netherlands, leading a contingent of eight players that will be unavailable for Joachim Low's side.
The match between the world champions and the Netherlands will go ahead, despite the Germany players involvement in the friendly at the Stade de France on Friday, which was targeted as part of the atrocities that occurred in Paris.
And with the game set to go ahead, the German FA have announced that Schweinsteiger will miss out, along with Neuer and Lukas Podolski who are being rested.
Koln defender Jonas Hector will miss out through injury, as well as Bayern Munich's Jerome Boateng, depleting the team's defensive options.
Schalke youngster Leroy Sane will also be unavailable, as the forward returns to the under-21 team for their match with Austria.
Bastian Schweinsteiger and Manuel Neuer are set to miss Germany's friendly with the Netherlands, leading a contingent of eight players that will be unavailable for Joachim Low's side.
The match between the world champions and the Netherlands will go ahead, despite the Germany players involvement in the friendly at the Stade de France on Friday, which was targeted as part of the atrocities that occurred in Paris.
And with the game set to go ahead, the German FA have announced that Schweinsteiger will miss out, along with Neuer and Lukas Podolski who are being rested.
Koln defender Jonas Hector will miss out through injury, as well as Bayern Munich's Jerome Boateng, depleting the team's defensive options.
Schalke youngster Leroy Sane will also be unavailable, as the forward returns to the under-21 team for their match with Austria.
Real Madrid interested in Lewandowski - agent
Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski is attracting interest from Real Madrid, according to the player's agent.
Lewandowski has been in excellent goalscoring form this season, with 14 strikes in 11 Bundesliga games, and it has been reported that Madrid are set to sign a striker ahead of the 2016-17 season.
Although the 10-time European champions maintain faith in Karim Benzema, despite the France international's current off-field problems, they are eager for a more prolific front man to lead their line.
And the player's agent, Cezary Cucharsky, is quoted by Marca as saying: "You cannot deny that there is interest from Real Madrid."
But Lewandowski, who is reportedly learning Spanish, is also quoted by the newspaper as saying: "There has been no contact over the past few months."
Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski is attracting interest from Real Madrid, according to the player's agent.
Lewandowski has been in excellent goalscoring form this season, with 14 strikes in 11 Bundesliga games, and it has been reported that Madrid are set to sign a striker ahead of the 2016-17 season.
Although the 10-time European champions maintain faith in Karim Benzema, despite the France international's current off-field problems, they are eager for a more prolific front man to lead their line.
And the player's agent, Cezary Cucharsky, is quoted by Marca as saying: "You cannot deny that there is interest from Real Madrid."
But Lewandowski, who is reportedly learning Spanish, is also quoted by the newspaper as saying: "There has been no contact over the past few months."
Schweinsteiger left 'speechless' after Paris terror attacks
Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has admitted he remains "speechless" after the terror attacks that hit Paris on Friday evening.
129 people lost their lives in the French capital on the same night that Germany took on Didier Deschamps' side in a friendly at the Stade de France, which is believed to have been targeted by the terrorists.
Schweinsteiger played the full 90 minutes of that game and has expressed his "sincerest condolescenes" to those affected by the events in Paris and in Lebanon, where at least 41 people were killed in two suicide bombings.
"I am still speechless about what happened on Friday," the 31-year-old wrote on his Facebook page.
"My sincerest condolences to everybody who is affected by this terrible tragedy. My prayers also go out to all the people who lost their lives the day before in Beirut.
"No matter where you come from and what religion you follow - we are one."
The French Football Federation confirmed on Saturday that France's friendly with England at Wembley on Tuesday will go ahead as planned.
Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has admitted he remains "speechless" after the terror attacks that hit Paris on Friday evening.
129 people lost their lives in the French capital on the same night that Germany took on Didier Deschamps' side in a friendly at the Stade de France, which is believed to have been targeted by the terrorists.
Schweinsteiger played the full 90 minutes of that game and has expressed his "sincerest condolescenes" to those affected by the events in Paris and in Lebanon, where at least 41 people were killed in two suicide bombings.
"I am still speechless about what happened on Friday," the 31-year-old wrote on his Facebook page.
"My sincerest condolences to everybody who is affected by this terrible tragedy. My prayers also go out to all the people who lost their lives the day before in Beirut.
"No matter where you come from and what religion you follow - we are one."
The French Football Federation confirmed on Saturday that France's friendly with England at Wembley on Tuesday will go ahead as planned.
Cech: Chelsea are in a state & it's unbelievable!
Petr Cech admits he has been shocked by Chelsea’s terrible Premier League form this season and has no answer to why the champions have fallen so far.
Chelsea have won just three of their 12 league matches since being crowned title winners and languish in 16th place, with Champions League qualification looking increasingly unlikely.
And former Blues stopper Cech is baffled by the Stamford Bridge club’s lack of form under manager Jose Mourinho after a dominant campaign last year.
"It makes me surprised,” Cech told Tyden. “It's a team that six months ago won the league.
“Players stayed there, the coach added more to his liking. It is very hard to believe that the club is in such a state.
“I was surprised to see their suffering at the beginning of the league, but I was even more taken aback by the fact that the crisis still continues.”
Chelsea host Norwich City in the league on Saturday aiming to avoid a fourth successive league defeat.
Petr Cech admits he has been shocked by Chelsea’s terrible Premier League form this season and has no answer to why the champions have fallen so far.
Chelsea have won just three of their 12 league matches since being crowned title winners and languish in 16th place, with Champions League qualification looking increasingly unlikely.
And former Blues stopper Cech is baffled by the Stamford Bridge club’s lack of form under manager Jose Mourinho after a dominant campaign last year.
"It makes me surprised,” Cech told Tyden. “It's a team that six months ago won the league.
“Players stayed there, the coach added more to his liking. It is very hard to believe that the club is in such a state.
“I was surprised to see their suffering at the beginning of the league, but I was even more taken aback by the fact that the crisis still continues.”
Chelsea host Norwich City in the league on Saturday aiming to avoid a fourth successive league defeat.
Morata: I have no intention of joining Real Madrid
Juventus striker Alvaro Morata has again been forced to dismiss stories linking him with a return to Real Madrid.
Morata, 23, began his career at the Santiago Bernabeu before movin to Turin in a €20 million deal in 2014, winning a league and cup double in his debut campaign in Italy.
Madrid retained an option to buy back the attacker for €30 million and, after a difficult personal start to the season, speculation is rife that Morata could return to Spain next summer.
The Los Blancos' academy product has rubbished the reports linking him with his former side, however, and insisted he is content with life at Juventus.
"As for Real Madrid rumours, I let it all slide off me," he said. "The only thing that interests me is playing as much as possible for Juve and winning titles, as after that anything people say is not my problem.
"I know that I have to do better, that I haven’t been as consistent as last season and so far I haven’t played at my level. I need to get back there and surpass it, seeing as I am only 23 and hope to improve further.
"I am very happy where I am and am not thinking of any other club. It’s true there are many things that are not up to me, but I repeat I am happy at Juventus and have no intention of changing."
However, football agent Ernesto Bronzetti - who works closely with Real - believes the Liga giants will make a move for their former player next summer.
Speaking to Tuttosport, Bronzetti said: "Madrid's intention is to bring him back, but whether they do it or not will depend on the will of the player. The outcome will arrive in the months to come.
"[Madrid] are starting to change their transfer policy. They are now looking to sign young players and Morata's profile is interesting."
Juventus striker Alvaro Morata has again been forced to dismiss stories linking him with a return to Real Madrid.
Morata, 23, began his career at the Santiago Bernabeu before movin to Turin in a €20 million deal in 2014, winning a league and cup double in his debut campaign in Italy.
Madrid retained an option to buy back the attacker for €30 million and, after a difficult personal start to the season, speculation is rife that Morata could return to Spain next summer.
The Los Blancos' academy product has rubbished the reports linking him with his former side, however, and insisted he is content with life at Juventus.
"As for Real Madrid rumours, I let it all slide off me," he said. "The only thing that interests me is playing as much as possible for Juve and winning titles, as after that anything people say is not my problem.
"I know that I have to do better, that I haven’t been as consistent as last season and so far I haven’t played at my level. I need to get back there and surpass it, seeing as I am only 23 and hope to improve further.
"I am very happy where I am and am not thinking of any other club. It’s true there are many things that are not up to me, but I repeat I am happy at Juventus and have no intention of changing."
However, football agent Ernesto Bronzetti - who works closely with Real - believes the Liga giants will make a move for their former player next summer.
Speaking to Tuttosport, Bronzetti said: "Madrid's intention is to bring him back, but whether they do it or not will depend on the will of the player. The outcome will arrive in the months to come.
"[Madrid] are starting to change their transfer policy. They are now looking to sign young players and Morata's profile is interesting."
Barcelona were interested in Giovinco - agent
Barcelona were interested in signing Toronto FC's Italian forward Sebastian Giovinco, according to the player's agent.
Recent reports have suggested that the Italian may be set to complete a loan move to Europe during the MLS off-season, following the likes of David Beckham, Landon Donovan and Frank Lampard.
But Andrea D'Amico, Giovinco's agent, dampened speculation, suggesting that the forward is happy to stay with the Canadian club but also indicating that there was previously interest from Barcelona.
"There was some interest, but nothing very strong," D'Amico told Italian broadcaster RAI Sport when asked about a possible move to the Camp Nou.
"It's surprising that these types of clubs never had contact with him before he decided to start his adventure in the United States. The reality is that now he is concentrating on his decision to play for Toronto."
D'Amico also rebuffed suggestions that Giovinco could move to Lazio on a temporary deal, responding "no, absolutely not" when asked, while further reinforcing his client's committment to Toronto FC.
"Giovinco made a decision to play for Toronto FC and I am convinced he is happy there," D'Amico continued.
"In addition, Toronto has invested in a project that is not based on time, but in continuity."
"It's surprising that these types of clubs never had contact with him before he decided to start his adventure in the United States. The reality is that now he is concentrating on his decision to play for Toronto."
D'Amico also rebuffed suggestions that Giovinco could move to Lazio on a temporary deal, responding "no, absolutely not" when asked, while further reinforcing his client's committment to Toronto FC.
"Giovinco made a decision to play for Toronto FC and I am convinced he is happy there," D'Amico continued.
"In addition, Toronto has invested in a project that is not based on time, but in continuity."
Barcelona were interested in signing Toronto FC's Italian forward Sebastian Giovinco, according to the player's agent.
Recent reports have suggested that the Italian may be set to complete a loan move to Europe during the MLS off-season, following the likes of David Beckham, Landon Donovan and Frank Lampard.
But Andrea D'Amico, Giovinco's agent, dampened speculation, suggesting that the forward is happy to stay with the Canadian club but also indicating that there was previously interest from Barcelona.
"There was some interest, but nothing very strong," D'Amico told Italian broadcaster RAI Sport when asked about a possible move to the Camp Nou.
"It's surprising that these types of clubs never had contact with him before he decided to start his adventure in the United States. The reality is that now he is concentrating on his decision to play for Toronto."
D'Amico also rebuffed suggestions that Giovinco could move to Lazio on a temporary deal, responding "no, absolutely not" when asked, while further reinforcing his client's committment to Toronto FC.
"Giovinco made a decision to play for Toronto FC and I am convinced he is happy there," D'Amico continued.
"In addition, Toronto has invested in a project that is not based on time, but in continuity."
"It's surprising that these types of clubs never had contact with him before he decided to start his adventure in the United States. The reality is that now he is concentrating on his decision to play for Toronto."
D'Amico also rebuffed suggestions that Giovinco could move to Lazio on a temporary deal, responding "no, absolutely not" when asked, while further reinforcing his client's committment to Toronto FC.
"Giovinco made a decision to play for Toronto FC and I am convinced he is happy there," D'Amico continued.
"In addition, Toronto has invested in a project that is not based on time, but in continuity."
Wilshere: I won't rush return
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere says he won't rush his return from injury after revealing his latest setback was the most difficult he has had to deal with in his career.
The England international fractured his leg in the final week of pre-season and isn't expected to be fully fit until December at the earliest.
The injury was the latest in a string of physical problems Wilshere has suffered since making his debut back in 2008 and he admits he won't play until he's 100 per cent certain of his fitness.
“It’s going well,” he told Arsenal Player. “I’m working as hard as I can to try to come back.
"I know what it takes because unfortunately I’ve been injured a few times in my career and I know what it takes to come back. I’m not going to rush it. I’ll make sure my body’s right and at the moment I’m feeling good.
“Mentally this one has been the toughest to take because I had a big injury last year, came back, got myself fit, back in good form, played for England. Then I cut my holiday short for two weeks and came in to try to get myself right for this season.
“I thought, ‘This season I need to be fit for the whole season and go into the Euros with a whole season behind me’.
"Unfortunately on the last day of pre-season I got injured so it was probably the toughest one for me to take.”
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere says he won't rush his return from injury after revealing his latest setback was the most difficult he has had to deal with in his career.
The England international fractured his leg in the final week of pre-season and isn't expected to be fully fit until December at the earliest.
The injury was the latest in a string of physical problems Wilshere has suffered since making his debut back in 2008 and he admits he won't play until he's 100 per cent certain of his fitness.
“It’s going well,” he told Arsenal Player. “I’m working as hard as I can to try to come back.
"I know what it takes because unfortunately I’ve been injured a few times in my career and I know what it takes to come back. I’m not going to rush it. I’ll make sure my body’s right and at the moment I’m feeling good.
“Mentally this one has been the toughest to take because I had a big injury last year, came back, got myself fit, back in good form, played for England. Then I cut my holiday short for two weeks and came in to try to get myself right for this season.
“I thought, ‘This season I need to be fit for the whole season and go into the Euros with a whole season behind me’.
"Unfortunately on the last day of pre-season I got injured so it was probably the toughest one for me to take.”
Fabregas reveals the real reason behind his Barcelona exit
Cesc Fabregas admits the discontent he felt from Barcelona’s supporters played a key role in forcing his move to Chelsea.
Having spent three seasons at Barca following his return from Arsenal, the 28-year-old made the surprise decision to join Jose Mourinho’s side in a £30 million deal in June 2014.
Fabregas scored 42 goals in 151 matches during his time in Spain but the midfielder admits the struggle to win over fans with his performances led to his exit.
“I treated the people of Barcelona well,” Fabregas told Marca.
“But at the end I realised that the majority of Barcelona fans didn’t like me anymore, and so I had to make a step aside.”
Cesc Fabregas admits the discontent he felt from Barcelona’s supporters played a key role in forcing his move to Chelsea.
Having spent three seasons at Barca following his return from Arsenal, the 28-year-old made the surprise decision to join Jose Mourinho’s side in a £30 million deal in June 2014.
Fabregas scored 42 goals in 151 matches during his time in Spain but the midfielder admits the struggle to win over fans with his performances led to his exit.
“I treated the people of Barcelona well,” Fabregas told Marca.
“But at the end I realised that the majority of Barcelona fans didn’t like me anymore, and so I had to make a step aside.”
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