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..::Football IV::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
Expose wenawa wadi
Full Time
Manchester United 3 Vs 0 St Etienne
Manchester United Goal(s)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 15',75',88'(PEN)
Manchester United Goal(s)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 15',75',88'(PEN)
Congratulations Manchester United!
Ibra gen Hat-trick 1kak
Kelakata passe Manchester United player kenekgen Hat-Trick 1kak dakke
Martial / Ibra / Pogba
Good luck for the 2nd Leg Manchester United!
Ibra gen Hat-trick 1kak
Kelakata passe Manchester United player kenekgen Hat-Trick 1kak dakke
Martial / Ibra / Pogba
Good luck for the 2nd Leg Manchester United!
Man Utd target Griezmann admits Simeone has made him one of the world's best
Antoine Griezmann has credited Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone with turning him into “one of the best players in the world”.The France international was taken to the Spanish capital from Real Sociedad in a big-money deal back in 2014.
He was charged with the task of following in some illustrious footsteps, with Diego Costa the most recent high-profile frontman to have departed Vicente Calderon.Griezmann slotted seamlessly into the Atletico fold, with a 25-goal haul marking a productive return in his debut campaign.
He improved that record to 32 efforts in all competitions last season and already has 16 to his name this term.
The 25-year-old also secured a third-place finish in the 2016 Ballon d’Or and is now the subject of intense interest from Manchester United, as they plot a summer raid for his services.
Griezmann is now considered to be among the finest forwards on the planet, but he insists that standing has only been made possible by the coaching he has received from Simeone.
He told FIFA’s official website: "He's changed me. He's brought so many things to my game that it's hard to even begin to say what they are.
“Let's just say that I wouldn't have been regarded as one of the best players in the world if it weren't for him."More than anything he's helped me to be more effective in front of goal, to take every chance that comes my way, and, of course, to run and run and work hard for the team. You can't make it at Atletico if you don't do that."
While the speculation regarding his future rages around him, Griezmann has sought to ignore the rumours and remain focused on his football.He is not about to waver in that stance, with no thought being given to moving on as Atletico prepare to enter an exciting new era in their history.
Griezmann added: "On a personal level I'm very happy, and in football terms we're about to move to a new stadium, which is very important.“We'll just have to see what the future brings, but for now I'm very happy here and I hope to win trophies with this club."
Antoine Griezmann has credited Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone with turning him into “one of the best players in the world”.The France international was taken to the Spanish capital from Real Sociedad in a big-money deal back in 2014.
He was charged with the task of following in some illustrious footsteps, with Diego Costa the most recent high-profile frontman to have departed Vicente Calderon.Griezmann slotted seamlessly into the Atletico fold, with a 25-goal haul marking a productive return in his debut campaign.
He improved that record to 32 efforts in all competitions last season and already has 16 to his name this term.
The 25-year-old also secured a third-place finish in the 2016 Ballon d’Or and is now the subject of intense interest from Manchester United, as they plot a summer raid for his services.
Griezmann is now considered to be among the finest forwards on the planet, but he insists that standing has only been made possible by the coaching he has received from Simeone.
He told FIFA’s official website: "He's changed me. He's brought so many things to my game that it's hard to even begin to say what they are.
“Let's just say that I wouldn't have been regarded as one of the best players in the world if it weren't for him."More than anything he's helped me to be more effective in front of goal, to take every chance that comes my way, and, of course, to run and run and work hard for the team. You can't make it at Atletico if you don't do that."
While the speculation regarding his future rages around him, Griezmann has sought to ignore the rumours and remain focused on his football.He is not about to waver in that stance, with no thought being given to moving on as Atletico prepare to enter an exciting new era in their history.
Griezmann added: "On a personal level I'm very happy, and in football terms we're about to move to a new stadium, which is very important.“We'll just have to see what the future brings, but for now I'm very happy here and I hope to win trophies with this club."
Links to Chelsea flattering but nothing in them - Kjaer
Fenerbahce centre-back Simon Kjaer has said that he was “flattered” to be linked with a January move to Chelsea, even if there was no substance to the reports.
The Denmark international, 27, has helped his side into the knockout stages of the Europa League, in which they will tackle Krasnodar, and his form has been at such a level that a move to Antonio Conte’s men had been discussed as a possibility.While that comes as encouragement to the former Lille, Roma and Palermo defender, he is set upon doing the best he can with his current employers.
“Fenerbahce gave a statement saying it all: there was nothing in it,” he said. “As a player, you have to close your eyes and ears for rumours, because there are always so many of them.
"Again, it is flattering to be mentioned in connection with other big clubs, and it confirms that I am doing things well, but I am a Fenerbahce player, and my only focus is on this club.”
Such were the level of his displays in the first level of the competition that he was named in UEFA’s Europa League Team of the group stage, scoring two goals and helping his side to finish ahead of Manchester United in the pools.
“The most important was for the team to win the group, and that we got through to the knock phase, but of course I am thrilled that my performances were noticed and rewarded. It is a pat on the back, and it confirms, that I am doing things well with my football,” he added.
Beating Jose Mourinho’s side 2-1 in Istanbul will live with him for a long time and displayed the strength of the team, particularly after suffering a heavy 4-1 loss in England in matchday three.
“Manchester United are a really great club with a fantastic tradition, and obviously we enjoyed beating them at home,” he said. “It was a great result on an amazing night with an electric atmosphere in our stadium. That was one of the nights I will remember long after I have stopped playing football.
“The win in our stadium was one of the really huge games that we all enjoy to play - the reason for playing football. It was a revenge for us as well after the team’s off day at Old Trafford - and our only defeat in a pretty tough group.”Achieving such a feat means that Fener are among an elite group of teams capable of going on to win the competition, the player believes.
“Winning the group and defeating United gave us a lot of confidence going into next phase of the tournament, and the ambitions of a top club like Fenerbahce are always to go into every game to win it - and every tournament. And I love that attitude,” he confirmed.
“It’s a very important competition for the team. We are a top club in Turkey but we are also a club with an extremely big fan base both here and abroad and with international profile and ambitions.
“Last season we should have gone further than the last 16, but I think we have learned from that as a team. So yes, we are in it to win it - even though I expect other teams to say the same.”
Fenerbahce centre-back Simon Kjaer has said that he was “flattered” to be linked with a January move to Chelsea, even if there was no substance to the reports.
The Denmark international, 27, has helped his side into the knockout stages of the Europa League, in which they will tackle Krasnodar, and his form has been at such a level that a move to Antonio Conte’s men had been discussed as a possibility.While that comes as encouragement to the former Lille, Roma and Palermo defender, he is set upon doing the best he can with his current employers.
“Fenerbahce gave a statement saying it all: there was nothing in it,” he said. “As a player, you have to close your eyes and ears for rumours, because there are always so many of them.
"Again, it is flattering to be mentioned in connection with other big clubs, and it confirms that I am doing things well, but I am a Fenerbahce player, and my only focus is on this club.”
Such were the level of his displays in the first level of the competition that he was named in UEFA’s Europa League Team of the group stage, scoring two goals and helping his side to finish ahead of Manchester United in the pools.
“The most important was for the team to win the group, and that we got through to the knock phase, but of course I am thrilled that my performances were noticed and rewarded. It is a pat on the back, and it confirms, that I am doing things well with my football,” he added.
Beating Jose Mourinho’s side 2-1 in Istanbul will live with him for a long time and displayed the strength of the team, particularly after suffering a heavy 4-1 loss in England in matchday three.
“Manchester United are a really great club with a fantastic tradition, and obviously we enjoyed beating them at home,” he said. “It was a great result on an amazing night with an electric atmosphere in our stadium. That was one of the nights I will remember long after I have stopped playing football.
“The win in our stadium was one of the really huge games that we all enjoy to play - the reason for playing football. It was a revenge for us as well after the team’s off day at Old Trafford - and our only defeat in a pretty tough group.”Achieving such a feat means that Fener are among an elite group of teams capable of going on to win the competition, the player believes.
“Winning the group and defeating United gave us a lot of confidence going into next phase of the tournament, and the ambitions of a top club like Fenerbahce are always to go into every game to win it - and every tournament. And I love that attitude,” he confirmed.
“It’s a very important competition for the team. We are a top club in Turkey but we are also a club with an extremely big fan base both here and abroad and with international profile and ambitions.
“Last season we should have gone further than the last 16, but I think we have learned from that as a team. So yes, we are in it to win it - even though I expect other teams to say the same.”
'Milan always in my heart' - Shevchenko not ruling out San Siro return
Andriy Shevchenko is not ruling out a return to AC Milan as head coach one day, but says his immediate focus is with Ukraine.
Shevchenko won the Serie A title as well as medals in the Coppa Italia and Champions League during a prolific spell at San Siro between 1999 and 2006, before later returning for a brief loan stint after an underwhelming spell with Chelsea in the Premier League.Since hanging up his boots, the former striker began a career in politics before returning to football as head coach of his native Ukraine in July last year.
The 39-year-old is still a fan favourite with the Rossoneri and Shevchenko admits that a return to Milan may be of interest, but only once he has achieved his goals with Ukraine."Right now I'm only focused on Ukraine," he told Corriere dello Sport. "In the future we will see. Certainly Milan will always remain in my heart."
Milan were superb in the first half of the season under new head coach Vincenzo Montella and were among the teams challenging Juventus at the top of the table.
However, just two league wins since the turn of the year has seen their title ambitions fade and they face a tough battle even to qualify for European football having slipped to seventh.
Shevchenko, though, believes Montella is doing a fine job."Vincenzo was a great striker and now is a great coach as well as a great man," he added.
"For me he is doing something exceptional because he has built a united group and they have a good game. "With him AC Milan is back at high levels, although still something is missing to win."
Andriy Shevchenko is not ruling out a return to AC Milan as head coach one day, but says his immediate focus is with Ukraine.
Shevchenko won the Serie A title as well as medals in the Coppa Italia and Champions League during a prolific spell at San Siro between 1999 and 2006, before later returning for a brief loan stint after an underwhelming spell with Chelsea in the Premier League.Since hanging up his boots, the former striker began a career in politics before returning to football as head coach of his native Ukraine in July last year.
The 39-year-old is still a fan favourite with the Rossoneri and Shevchenko admits that a return to Milan may be of interest, but only once he has achieved his goals with Ukraine."Right now I'm only focused on Ukraine," he told Corriere dello Sport. "In the future we will see. Certainly Milan will always remain in my heart."
Milan were superb in the first half of the season under new head coach Vincenzo Montella and were among the teams challenging Juventus at the top of the table.
However, just two league wins since the turn of the year has seen their title ambitions fade and they face a tough battle even to qualify for European football having slipped to seventh.
Shevchenko, though, believes Montella is doing a fine job."Vincenzo was a great striker and now is a great coach as well as a great man," he added.
"For me he is doing something exceptional because he has built a united group and they have a good game. "With him AC Milan is back at high levels, although still something is missing to win."
Referee Clattenburg swaps Premier League for Saudi Arabia
Referee Mark Clattenburg is set to leave the Premier League to join the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has announced.
Clattenburg has been the subject of speculation in recent months after admitting he could - like many star European players - be lured away from England by an offer from the Chinese Super League.
Instead it is another relatively wealthy football region that has succeeded in tempting the 41-year-old to depart, although it is yet to be confirmed what capacity Clattenburg will be employed in.
His fellow former Premier League referee Howard Webb was appointed head of refereeing by the SAFF in August 2015, but is understood to have resigned this month upon accepting a role managing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) operations in MLS.
"The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) would like to wish Mark Clattenburg well as he prepares for his move to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation," the PGMOL said in a statement released via the Premier League on Thursday.
"Since joining the PGMO Select Group in 2004, Mark developed into one of our top officials, refereeing at the highest level and setting standards for others to follow.
"His accomplishments are numerous and last season saw Mark achieve a memorable treble, on top of another consistently excellent season in the Premier League, as he officiated three major cup finals - the FA Cup final, the UEFA Champions League final and the UEFA Euro 2016 final.
"Mark is a talented referee, he has been a great asset to the English game and hopefully an inspiration to those who want to get into refereeing at the grass roots of the game.
"We understand this is an exciting opportunity for Mark as well as further underlining what high esteem English match officials are held throughout the world game."
Referee Mark Clattenburg is set to leave the Premier League to join the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has announced.
Clattenburg has been the subject of speculation in recent months after admitting he could - like many star European players - be lured away from England by an offer from the Chinese Super League.
Instead it is another relatively wealthy football region that has succeeded in tempting the 41-year-old to depart, although it is yet to be confirmed what capacity Clattenburg will be employed in.
His fellow former Premier League referee Howard Webb was appointed head of refereeing by the SAFF in August 2015, but is understood to have resigned this month upon accepting a role managing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) operations in MLS.
"The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) would like to wish Mark Clattenburg well as he prepares for his move to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation," the PGMOL said in a statement released via the Premier League on Thursday.
"Since joining the PGMO Select Group in 2004, Mark developed into one of our top officials, refereeing at the highest level and setting standards for others to follow.
"His accomplishments are numerous and last season saw Mark achieve a memorable treble, on top of another consistently excellent season in the Premier League, as he officiated three major cup finals - the FA Cup final, the UEFA Champions League final and the UEFA Euro 2016 final.
"Mark is a talented referee, he has been a great asset to the English game and hopefully an inspiration to those who want to get into refereeing at the grass roots of the game.
"We understand this is an exciting opportunity for Mark as well as further underlining what high esteem English match officials are held throughout the world game."
Gent 1-0 Tottenham: Abject Spurs beaten in Europe
Tottenham fell to a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Gent in Belgium on Thursday, as their return to the Europa League failed to inspire.
Mauricio Pochettino's side were abject throughout the Round of 32 encounter, and Jeremy Perbet's second half goal consigned them to yet another poor result in a shambolic European campaign thus far.
Spurs were eliminated from the Champions League earlier in the season, finishing third in a seemingly straightforward group comprising Monaco, Bayer Leverkusen and CSKA Moscow, and are now facing the prospect of another early exit in European competition.
In a game of few chances, Gent did enough to deny Harry Kane and Dele Alli the openings they thrive on in the Spurs attack, and striker Perbet made no mistake when given the opportunity to score after 58 minutes.
The result extended Tottenham's record of never having won in Belgium, and Mauricio Pochettino's men face an uphill task in the return leg at Wembley – a venue that has not been a happy hunting ground for them in Europe this season.
Gent coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck, whose side sit eighth in the Belgian First Division A, will have been delighted to see the hosts earn a deserved win without star striker Kalifa Coulibaly, who watched from the bench.
Gent burst out of the blocks and swept the ball into Tottenham's penalty area in the opening minute, but the Premier League side soon began to dictate the play with academy graduate Harry Winks taking charge in midfield.
Alli gave the hosts a scare when he flashed a low drive narrowly wide of the post after 11 minutes, before Harry Kane curled a shot towards goal from 20 yards that was saved by Gent goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic.
Gent's robust midfield battled hard for a share of possession and Thomas Foket created the home side's first chance when his cross picked out Stefan Mitrovic, who lofted an effort over from close range.
Mousa Dembele powered into the box and found Alli but the England international was crowded out when he attempted to shoot and the first half ended with Gent passing and retaining the ball effectively despite creating few clear chances.
Kane hit the outside of the post with a shot on the turn and Dembele stung the palms of Kalinic as Spurs pressed for an opener early in the second half.
The quality in Pochettino's team began to show in the way Spurs controlled the second half, but both Alli and Kane were frustrated when they tried to find space in attacking areas.
Just as the visitors looked most likely to break the deadlock, they were undone by a Nana Asare pass to Danijel Milicevic, who ran in behind the Spurs defence and squared the ball to Perbet to shoot into the bottom-right corner.
Milicevic went agonisingly close to doubling Gent's lead when Toby Alderweireld yielded possession on the edge of his own box, but fortunately for the Belgian defender Hugo Lloris pulled off a fine one-handed save to keep Spurs' deficit at one goal going into a tricky second leg.
Tottenham fell to a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Gent in Belgium on Thursday, as their return to the Europa League failed to inspire.
Mauricio Pochettino's side were abject throughout the Round of 32 encounter, and Jeremy Perbet's second half goal consigned them to yet another poor result in a shambolic European campaign thus far.
Spurs were eliminated from the Champions League earlier in the season, finishing third in a seemingly straightforward group comprising Monaco, Bayer Leverkusen and CSKA Moscow, and are now facing the prospect of another early exit in European competition.
In a game of few chances, Gent did enough to deny Harry Kane and Dele Alli the openings they thrive on in the Spurs attack, and striker Perbet made no mistake when given the opportunity to score after 58 minutes.
The result extended Tottenham's record of never having won in Belgium, and Mauricio Pochettino's men face an uphill task in the return leg at Wembley – a venue that has not been a happy hunting ground for them in Europe this season.
Gent coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck, whose side sit eighth in the Belgian First Division A, will have been delighted to see the hosts earn a deserved win without star striker Kalifa Coulibaly, who watched from the bench.
Gent burst out of the blocks and swept the ball into Tottenham's penalty area in the opening minute, but the Premier League side soon began to dictate the play with academy graduate Harry Winks taking charge in midfield.
Alli gave the hosts a scare when he flashed a low drive narrowly wide of the post after 11 minutes, before Harry Kane curled a shot towards goal from 20 yards that was saved by Gent goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic.
Gent's robust midfield battled hard for a share of possession and Thomas Foket created the home side's first chance when his cross picked out Stefan Mitrovic, who lofted an effort over from close range.
Mousa Dembele powered into the box and found Alli but the England international was crowded out when he attempted to shoot and the first half ended with Gent passing and retaining the ball effectively despite creating few clear chances.
Kane hit the outside of the post with a shot on the turn and Dembele stung the palms of Kalinic as Spurs pressed for an opener early in the second half.
The quality in Pochettino's team began to show in the way Spurs controlled the second half, but both Alli and Kane were frustrated when they tried to find space in attacking areas.
Just as the visitors looked most likely to break the deadlock, they were undone by a Nana Asare pass to Danijel Milicevic, who ran in behind the Spurs defence and squared the ball to Perbet to shoot into the bottom-right corner.
Milicevic went agonisingly close to doubling Gent's lead when Toby Alderweireld yielded possession on the edge of his own box, but fortunately for the Belgian defender Hugo Lloris pulled off a fine one-handed save to keep Spurs' deficit at one goal going into a tricky second leg.
Man Utd 3-0 Saint-Etienne: Red Devils seize advantage thanks to Ibrahimovic hat-trick
Manchester United claimed a 3-0 win over Saint-Etienne in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie thanks to a first hat-trick for the club from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The striker's deflected free-kick after quarter of an hour and a second-half double were enough to give the home side an important if not wholly convincing victory at Old Trafford.
The match - which saw brothers Paul and Florentin Pogba face one another for the first time competitively - was United's first of four in only 10 days, but manager Jose Mourinho nonetheless named a strong side in an effort to take control of the tie.
Ibrahimovic duly obliged with the opening goal after 15 minutes - his 21st of the season in all competitions - but Saint-Etienne looked a real threat for much of the first half against a United side that seemed strangely imbalanced and out-of-sorts.
Mourinho responded with a tactical tweak after the break and the home side soon began to assume control of proceedings, although Ibrahimovic saw a second goal disallowed and Anthony Martial missed a good chance of his own to double the lead.
Paul Pogba hit the crossbar before Nolan Roux wasted a glorious opportunity for a vital away goal, but Ibrahimovic added a second from close range before adding a late third from the penalty spot to make certain of the win and give United a strong chance of progressing to the last 16.
United started shakily but a huge slice of luck saw them take the lead.Ibrahimovic's free-kick from the edge of the area struck the base of the Saint-Etienne wall and trickled beyond the wrong-footed Stephane Ruffier and into the net.
Mata blasted a volley straight at Ruffier as United pushed for a second, and Ibrahimovic contrived to turn a loose ball over the bar from less than six yards out after Martial's mazy run and shot saw the ball blocked into his path.
The visitors - roared on by their boisterous following - were certainly not daunted by their deficit, though, and Henri Saivet missed the best of a number of half-chances as they began to stroll through United's midfield to attack the back four almost at will.
Mourinho made a change at the break, bringing on Jesse Lingard for Fellaini as United switched from a 4-3-3 to more of a 4-2-3-1, but the hosts were a little fortunate not to find themselves a man down moments after the restart after Martial caught Kevin Malcuit with a raised arm.
Ibrahimovic had a header correctly ruled out for offside and Martial saw another strong run and strike blocked by Ruffier, as United began to look a little more settled in their pursuit of a second goal.
Paul Pogba spun superbly before curling a shot narrowly wide, but the France star should have done better when he headed Daley Blind's fine delivery against the crossbar when unmarked at the far post soon after.
Substitute Roux lifted the ball over Romero and onto the roof of the net when played clean through on the break following Saint-Etienne's best move of the match, and that miss was punished scarcely two minutes later - much to the relief of the home fans inside Old Trafford.
Marcus Rashford - on for his 50th United appearance - surged into the area from the left and fired the ball across goal, and when Ruffier could only parry it into Ibrahimovic's path, the Swede duly tapped in from six yards out.
Saint-Etienne's resistance was dwindling and a clumsy foul from Kevin Theophile-Catherine on Ibrahimovic gave him the chance to complete his first treble for club, and he made no mistake from the spot, sweeping the ball into the bottom-left corner as Ruffier dived the wrong way.
Ibrahimovic has silverware in sights after first Manchester United hat-trick
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is determined to keep Manchester United's challenge for four trophies alive after helping them take a huge step towards the Europa League last 32.
The 35-year-old scored his first United hat-trick to give Jose Mourinho's side a 3-0 win over Saint-Etienne at Old Trafford in the first leg of their last-32 encounter on Thursday.
It was Ibrahimovic's third career treble against Christophe Galtier's side and one that has put United in a commanding position to progress to the next phase of the competition.
And with the Community Shield in the bag, an EFL Cup final against Southampton to come next week and an FA Cup fifth-round meeting with Blackburn Rovers on Sunday, Ibrahimovic is eager for his side to keep up their winning run - even if a Premier League title tilt is looking difficult.
"We created good chances," he said afterwards, as quoted by BBC Sport. "It was important to get a good win at home and we bring it with us in the second leg. It was a good game but I think we can do better.
"Every time I've played against Saint-Etienne, with hard work there has been a couple of goals. I've scored a couple of goals and hopefully I can do the same next week.
"We're winning but in a short time everything can change. It's important to keep getting the wins we need. Everything can change but we're happy at the moment.
"If you look at the Premier League, the first four who go into the Champions League, one will become a champion and the rest maybe will not win a trophy.
"We're still in all four. The fifth, the Community Shield, we've already won. If we don't win the Premier League, we get some other trophies. That's good, also."Ibrahimovic was delighted with his first hat-trick for United but was eager to warn his team-mates not to expect an easy ride in next Wednesday's second leg at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.
"It feels good," he told MUTV. "I think most important was to bring a good result for the second leg."We did an okay game but we could have done more. We created chances and I got the three goals, so thanks to my team-mates.
"It's a good result because I know how difficult it is to play over there. They have a fantastic crowd. It was important to get a good result."
Man Utd reach defensive milestone for first time since Sir Alex era
Manchester United reached a defensive milestone for the first time since the era of Sir Alex Ferguson after beating Saint-Etienne 3-0 in the Europa League on Thursday.
Jose Mourinho’s side kept their third consecutive European clean sheet for the first time since 2010, having previously kept out Zorya Luhansk and Feyenoord in the same competition.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the hero on the night, as he scored his first United hat-trick, and his third against Saint-Etienne over his entire career.
But it was defensively where United set a milestone that they hadn't previously achieved in Europe since 2010, where they went five games without conceding in the group stages of the Champions League.
Mourinho's men now take on Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup before the EFL Cup final against Southampton a week on Sunday.
And the Red Devils will undoutedly be confident of getting past Saint-Etienne in the Europa League before that Wembley clash, as they take the 3-0 lead to the second leg in France on Wednesday.
Manchester United reached a defensive milestone for the first time since the era of Sir Alex Ferguson after beating Saint-Etienne 3-0 in the Europa League on Thursday.
Jose Mourinho’s side kept their third consecutive European clean sheet for the first time since 2010, having previously kept out Zorya Luhansk and Feyenoord in the same competition.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the hero on the night, as he scored his first United hat-trick, and his third against Saint-Etienne over his entire career.
But it was defensively where United set a milestone that they hadn't previously achieved in Europe since 2010, where they went five games without conceding in the group stages of the Champions League.
Mourinho's men now take on Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup before the EFL Cup final against Southampton a week on Sunday.
And the Red Devils will undoutedly be confident of getting past Saint-Etienne in the Europa League before that Wembley clash, as they take the 3-0 lead to the second leg in France on Wednesday.
Caceres completes move to Southampton
Southampton have announced the signing of defender Martin Caceres until the end of the season.
The Uruguay international, a free agent since leaving Juventus last June, has been in talks with the Premier League club for some time after rejecting an offer from AC Milan.The 29-year-old has now finalised his move to St. Mary's Stadium and is expected to join his new team-mates for their training camp in Spain.
Caceres told Southampton's official website: "I am very happy to have signed for what is an important club in English football. I am looking forward to getting started with my new team-mates."Of all of the options that I had, I think that the best option for me was to come to Southampton. I am extremely happy to have joined this club."
Director of Football Les Reed hopes Caceres can bring much-needed experience to the team, especially in the absence of the injured Virgil van Dijk.
"Martin is a great talent, who has played at the very top level and won many trophies and medals," he said. "He is a very experienced international player for Uruguay and has enjoyed notable success with both Juventus and Barcelona."In a tough situation for us, losing Virgil to injury, he will bring experience, talent and character. He has played in the biggest of games, and will provide depth to our squad.
"Two days of extensive medicals and tough fitness tests have further demonstrated his desire and positive personality. I know Martin can't wait to start playing again. We welcome him to St Mary's, and his family into our family."
Caceres could make his debut in the EFL Cup final against Manchester United on February 26, although his lack of match fitness means a start at Wembley is unlikely.
Southampton have announced the signing of defender Martin Caceres until the end of the season.
The Uruguay international, a free agent since leaving Juventus last June, has been in talks with the Premier League club for some time after rejecting an offer from AC Milan.The 29-year-old has now finalised his move to St. Mary's Stadium and is expected to join his new team-mates for their training camp in Spain.
Caceres told Southampton's official website: "I am very happy to have signed for what is an important club in English football. I am looking forward to getting started with my new team-mates."Of all of the options that I had, I think that the best option for me was to come to Southampton. I am extremely happy to have joined this club."
Director of Football Les Reed hopes Caceres can bring much-needed experience to the team, especially in the absence of the injured Virgil van Dijk.
"Martin is a great talent, who has played at the very top level and won many trophies and medals," he said. "He is a very experienced international player for Uruguay and has enjoyed notable success with both Juventus and Barcelona."In a tough situation for us, losing Virgil to injury, he will bring experience, talent and character. He has played in the biggest of games, and will provide depth to our squad.
"Two days of extensive medicals and tough fitness tests have further demonstrated his desire and positive personality. I know Martin can't wait to start playing again. We welcome him to St Mary's, and his family into our family."
Caceres could make his debut in the EFL Cup final against Manchester United on February 26, although his lack of match fitness means a start at Wembley is unlikely.
'Dybala is the new Messi and worth €150m' - Zamparini hails Juventus forward
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini feels Paulo Dybala has what it takes to follow in the footsteps of Barcelona star Lionel Messi and believes the Juventus forward is worth €150 million.
Zamparini brought Dybala to Italy in 2012 - signing the Argentine forward from Instituto - and he became a key figure at Palermo before earning himself a €40m move to Turin in 2015.
Dybala has received some criticism in recent weeks for his lack of goals, but Zamparini feels it is "crazy" to downplay the attacker's performances as he prepares to take on his former team in Serie A on Friday.
"Whoever criticises Messi is crazy. We are talking about the new Messi. He will become a player like Messi and he is already at that level," the Palermo supremo told Tuttosport.
"Ok, he does not score as much as last season, but he is always man of the match for Juventus whenever I see him play. He is the type of attacker who plays for the team and puts others in the position to score. "I would say he is worth €140 or €150 million. Like I said, he is the new Messi. I have been saying that he is destined to become a star ever since he arrived at Palermo.
"I hope he will stay at Juventus. I think they can hold on to him. But of course there will be approaches. World-class players are always coveted by everyone. But I hope he will stay at Juventus for a long time."Dybala has netted eight times in 24 appearances in all competitions this season.
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini feels Paulo Dybala has what it takes to follow in the footsteps of Barcelona star Lionel Messi and believes the Juventus forward is worth €150 million.
Zamparini brought Dybala to Italy in 2012 - signing the Argentine forward from Instituto - and he became a key figure at Palermo before earning himself a €40m move to Turin in 2015.
Dybala has received some criticism in recent weeks for his lack of goals, but Zamparini feels it is "crazy" to downplay the attacker's performances as he prepares to take on his former team in Serie A on Friday.
"Whoever criticises Messi is crazy. We are talking about the new Messi. He will become a player like Messi and he is already at that level," the Palermo supremo told Tuttosport.
"Ok, he does not score as much as last season, but he is always man of the match for Juventus whenever I see him play. He is the type of attacker who plays for the team and puts others in the position to score. "I would say he is worth €140 or €150 million. Like I said, he is the new Messi. I have been saying that he is destined to become a star ever since he arrived at Palermo.
"I hope he will stay at Juventus. I think they can hold on to him. But of course there will be approaches. World-class players are always coveted by everyone. But I hope he will stay at Juventus for a long time."Dybala has netted eight times in 24 appearances in all competitions this season.
'Wherever I go, I win' - Ibrahimovic compares himself to Indiana Jones
Zlatan Ibrahimovic likened himself to movie character Indiana Jones in the wake of Manchester United's 3-0 win over Saint-Etienne at Old Trafford.
The prolific attacker netted a hat-trick to lead his side to victory in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie, scoring once in the opening 45 minutes before adding two more after the break.Thursday's victory keeps United on track for continental glory, with Jose Mourinho's men still in the race for the EFL Cup and FA Cup as well.
Ibrahimovic started his United career by winning the Community Shield and is hopeful of adding more silverware in the remainder of the season."Every trophy for me is incredible, everywhere I came I won so if I can win something here I will be super happy," Ibrahimovic said.
"People that know me know that I play in many clubs and I try to do my best.
"Wherever I went, I won. I am like Indiana Jones."
The 35-year-old has won numerous domestic titles throughout his career, but he has had little luck on the European stage, the UEFA Super Cup with Barcelona in 2009 his only continental trophy.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic likened himself to movie character Indiana Jones in the wake of Manchester United's 3-0 win over Saint-Etienne at Old Trafford.
The prolific attacker netted a hat-trick to lead his side to victory in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie, scoring once in the opening 45 minutes before adding two more after the break.Thursday's victory keeps United on track for continental glory, with Jose Mourinho's men still in the race for the EFL Cup and FA Cup as well.
Ibrahimovic started his United career by winning the Community Shield and is hopeful of adding more silverware in the remainder of the season."Every trophy for me is incredible, everywhere I came I won so if I can win something here I will be super happy," Ibrahimovic said.
"People that know me know that I play in many clubs and I try to do my best.
"Wherever I went, I won. I am like Indiana Jones."
The 35-year-old has won numerous domestic titles throughout his career, but he has had little luck on the European stage, the UEFA Super Cup with Barcelona in 2009 his only continental trophy.
'I'll manage next season' - Wenger dismisses retirement suggestions
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has said that he will manage next season, though he did not confirm it would be at the Emirates.
The 67-year-old has been with the Gunners for 21 years, and with his contract due to expire at the end of the present campaign, no new deal is yet in place to guarantee his future with the London side.Speculation has grown over his destiny in recent weeks as his side have dropped off the pace at the top of the Premier League table, and following a 5-1 Champions League loss to Bayern Munich in midweek has only escalated further.
The Frenchman insisted on Friday that he will not retire, but he did not confirm he will remain in his current post.“No matter what happens, I will manage next season whether that is here or somewhere else," he said.
"It is important for the club to make the right decision for the future. I have not worked here for 20 years not to care."I had many opportunities to go somewhere else but I care for this club and its future. It is important to be in safe hands."
He refused to be perturbed by speculation, however."I am used to it. I've been here for 20 years. In life, it is important to do what is right. I am in a public job and I must accept that. Everybody can have an opinion," he added.
"If I said March, April, it is because I didn’t know. I do not want to comment [on my future]. My future is not important, the team is and Arsenal Football Club."We have to focus on real problems, the way we play football and not my future."
The former Monaco boss did admit, however, that the midweek loss stung."I hate defeat, I hate to lose games. I have a big responsibility at this club. It is difficult to take but I have the strength and experience."
Wenger has won three Premier League titles with the Gunners, but his inability to add the domestic crown to the club's trophy cabinet since 2003-04 has often seen him questioned. Now 10 points off Chelsea with just 13 games remaining, it seems that the club's quest for the domestic title will go on.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has said that he will manage next season, though he did not confirm it would be at the Emirates.
The 67-year-old has been with the Gunners for 21 years, and with his contract due to expire at the end of the present campaign, no new deal is yet in place to guarantee his future with the London side.Speculation has grown over his destiny in recent weeks as his side have dropped off the pace at the top of the Premier League table, and following a 5-1 Champions League loss to Bayern Munich in midweek has only escalated further.
The Frenchman insisted on Friday that he will not retire, but he did not confirm he will remain in his current post.“No matter what happens, I will manage next season whether that is here or somewhere else," he said.
"It is important for the club to make the right decision for the future. I have not worked here for 20 years not to care."I had many opportunities to go somewhere else but I care for this club and its future. It is important to be in safe hands."
He refused to be perturbed by speculation, however."I am used to it. I've been here for 20 years. In life, it is important to do what is right. I am in a public job and I must accept that. Everybody can have an opinion," he added.
"If I said March, April, it is because I didn’t know. I do not want to comment [on my future]. My future is not important, the team is and Arsenal Football Club."We have to focus on real problems, the way we play football and not my future."
The former Monaco boss did admit, however, that the midweek loss stung."I hate defeat, I hate to lose games. I have a big responsibility at this club. It is difficult to take but I have the strength and experience."
Wenger has won three Premier League titles with the Gunners, but his inability to add the domestic crown to the club's trophy cabinet since 2003-04 has often seen him questioned. Now 10 points off Chelsea with just 13 games remaining, it seems that the club's quest for the domestic title will go on.
Lacazette: We’ll have to see what Memphis can do
Alexandre Lacazette has praised Lyon team-mate Memphis Depay’s “power and technique” but is not willing to say the Dutchman will be a star in Ligue 1 yet.
After OL’s 4-1 win over AZ in the Europa League on Thursday, during which he scored twice, Lacazette discussed the former Manchester United winger, who signed with the Parc OL side in January but did not feature in the game due to being cup tied.
Memphis’ form since making a £16 million move to OL in January has been mixed, with the 23-year-old notably criticised after a 2-0 derby loss to Saint-Etienne, although he bounced back by scoring his first goal for the club with a fine strike against Nancy a week later.His offensive colleague, though, is willing to wait before passing judgement.
“I think that Memphis is a good player, but we’ll have to wait and see what he can bring to the team before the end of the season,” the striker told Goal.“He has strength, is a technical player and has a good deal of experience because he plays for the Netherlands team and he played at Manchester United. He’ll bring us all that.”
Lacazette admitted that he did not know too much about AZ, with the exception of goalkeeper Tim Krul, who he twice rounded to score his goals.“Did I know many AZ players? Just the keeper, that’s all,” he admitted.
Even without Memphis, Lyon will be aiming to make good progress in the Europa League as it represents perhaps their best chance of Champions League football next season, given they trail third placed Nice by 13 points domestically.
Alexandre Lacazette has praised Lyon team-mate Memphis Depay’s “power and technique” but is not willing to say the Dutchman will be a star in Ligue 1 yet.
After OL’s 4-1 win over AZ in the Europa League on Thursday, during which he scored twice, Lacazette discussed the former Manchester United winger, who signed with the Parc OL side in January but did not feature in the game due to being cup tied.
Memphis’ form since making a £16 million move to OL in January has been mixed, with the 23-year-old notably criticised after a 2-0 derby loss to Saint-Etienne, although he bounced back by scoring his first goal for the club with a fine strike against Nancy a week later.His offensive colleague, though, is willing to wait before passing judgement.
“I think that Memphis is a good player, but we’ll have to wait and see what he can bring to the team before the end of the season,” the striker told Goal.“He has strength, is a technical player and has a good deal of experience because he plays for the Netherlands team and he played at Manchester United. He’ll bring us all that.”
Lacazette admitted that he did not know too much about AZ, with the exception of goalkeeper Tim Krul, who he twice rounded to score his goals.“Did I know many AZ players? Just the keeper, that’s all,” he admitted.
Even without Memphis, Lyon will be aiming to make good progress in the Europa League as it represents perhaps their best chance of Champions League football next season, given they trail third placed Nice by 13 points domestically.
Ribery close to Bayern comeback, Boateng may play against Arsenal
Franck Ribery could make his Bayern Munich comeback in next week's Bundesliga match against Hamburg, but Jerome Boateng still needs three more weeks before potentially making his return.
Ribery missed Bayern's past four games due to a thigh injury, while Boateng has not featured for the reigning German champions since November 2016.The duo recently returned to the training pitch, but Saturday's match versus Hertha Berlin comes too soon for them.
"Ribery is still training individually, but I think he can resume squad training next week," Ancelotti said at a news conference."I think he could make his comeback against Hamburg or Schalke.
"Boateng is also training with the squad again, but he still has to avoid physical contact. He still needs three weeks or so before his return.
"Could he play the second leg against Arsenal? We will have to wait and see when physical contact is an option again for him. He is in good shape, but we will have to wait a bit."
Boateng's imminent return leaves Ancelotti with a difficult choice as Mats Hummels and Javi Martinez have impressed as a centre-back pairing, but the Italian is not concerned about his luxury issue. "Boateng is still very important for us," Ancelotti continued."But the players all know not everybody can play at the same time. "Javi Martinez could also play in midfield, so that is an option as well."
Franck Ribery could make his Bayern Munich comeback in next week's Bundesliga match against Hamburg, but Jerome Boateng still needs three more weeks before potentially making his return.
Ribery missed Bayern's past four games due to a thigh injury, while Boateng has not featured for the reigning German champions since November 2016.The duo recently returned to the training pitch, but Saturday's match versus Hertha Berlin comes too soon for them.
"Ribery is still training individually, but I think he can resume squad training next week," Ancelotti said at a news conference."I think he could make his comeback against Hamburg or Schalke.
"Boateng is also training with the squad again, but he still has to avoid physical contact. He still needs three weeks or so before his return.
"Could he play the second leg against Arsenal? We will have to wait and see when physical contact is an option again for him. He is in good shape, but we will have to wait a bit."
Boateng's imminent return leaves Ancelotti with a difficult choice as Mats Hummels and Javi Martinez have impressed as a centre-back pairing, but the Italian is not concerned about his luxury issue. "Boateng is still very important for us," Ancelotti continued."But the players all know not everybody can play at the same time. "Javi Martinez could also play in midfield, so that is an option as well."
