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..::Football IV::..
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Mourinho: Mkhitaryan never looked for excuses
Jose Mourinho has hailed Henrikh Mkhitaryan's professionalism following an upturn in the Armenian's form after a difficult start to life at Manchester United.
Mkhitaryan joined United from Borussia Dortmund for a transfer fee in the region of €40 million, but initially struggled to live up to the high expectations at Old Trafford.
He has broken into the starting XI in recent weeks, though, and Mourinho has praised the 27-year-old's attitude."We bought him because I asked the club to do it, because I liked the player and analysed him," said the Portuguese.
"So it would be extra frustrating for me if everything went wrong. But he needed a period of adaptation, at every level, and in that period he was a great professional.
"Maybe another guy in his position would look for excuses and blame the manager, blame the pitch, blame the weather, blame something else, like many players do these days. But he was quiet, closed his mouth, worked really hard, waited for his opportunity and was playing really well now."
Mkhitaryan faces a brief spell on the sidelines after picking up a knock in the 1-0 win over Tottenham at the weekend and Mourinho hopes his absence will not have a negative effect on his recent progress."Hopefully a few matches out of action will not mean the end of this development," he added.
"Hopefully he can play Christmas. We believe it is possible. When I saw him on the stretcher I thought was more serious. When I saw the tackle on TV I was a bit scared.
"It is a pity because he is going to miss matches in his best period."Mourinho is not worried that Mkhitaryan's absence will hurt United, though, as he feels they have plenty of alternatives heading into Wednesday's match against Crystal Palace.
"The position is not a problem," he continued."Wayne Rooney, Marcus Rashford, Jesse Lingard, Ashley Young, Memphis Depay – it is a position where we have lots of players."
Jose Mourinho has hailed Henrikh Mkhitaryan's professionalism following an upturn in the Armenian's form after a difficult start to life at Manchester United.
Mkhitaryan joined United from Borussia Dortmund for a transfer fee in the region of €40 million, but initially struggled to live up to the high expectations at Old Trafford.
He has broken into the starting XI in recent weeks, though, and Mourinho has praised the 27-year-old's attitude."We bought him because I asked the club to do it, because I liked the player and analysed him," said the Portuguese.
"So it would be extra frustrating for me if everything went wrong. But he needed a period of adaptation, at every level, and in that period he was a great professional.
"Maybe another guy in his position would look for excuses and blame the manager, blame the pitch, blame the weather, blame something else, like many players do these days. But he was quiet, closed his mouth, worked really hard, waited for his opportunity and was playing really well now."
Mkhitaryan faces a brief spell on the sidelines after picking up a knock in the 1-0 win over Tottenham at the weekend and Mourinho hopes his absence will not have a negative effect on his recent progress."Hopefully a few matches out of action will not mean the end of this development," he added.
"Hopefully he can play Christmas. We believe it is possible. When I saw him on the stretcher I thought was more serious. When I saw the tackle on TV I was a bit scared.
"It is a pity because he is going to miss matches in his best period."Mourinho is not worried that Mkhitaryan's absence will hurt United, though, as he feels they have plenty of alternatives heading into Wednesday's match against Crystal Palace.
"The position is not a problem," he continued."Wayne Rooney, Marcus Rashford, Jesse Lingard, Ashley Young, Memphis Depay – it is a position where we have lots of players."
'Walcott should have at least 150 goals by now' - Henry
Theo Walcott reached a notable career landmark over the weekend, but Thierry Henry believes the Arsenal forward has taken too long to get there.The England international was on target against Stoke City on Saturday, with the Gunners’ first in a 3-1 win taking him to 100 goals at club level.
It has taken him 384 games to reach a century, with this only the fourth year that he has broken into double figures.Walcott has, however, netted 10 times in only 17 appearances this term, with there now an end product to his game on a more consistent basis.
Henry is delighted to see a former protégé from his time on Arsenal’s books performing to his full potential, but feels a player of the 27-year-old’s ability should have been hitting the targets he has only just reached a long time ago.He told Sky Sports News: "For me, that should have happened way before. Theo should, for me, already be on 150, 160 or 170 goals.
"Walcott has been at the club for 10 seasons, we are not talking about a youngster that just arrived in the game and we are praising him for scoring goals.“He’s playing on a regular basis now and he deserves it because he’s working hard.
“Maybe before he didn’t deserve to start all of the time, so therefore you cannot perform. If you are not on the field, it is very difficult.
“Let’s not forget that he got injured a lot, with some very difficult injuries for him, but he’s been in and out of the squad for a long time.
“I’m happy for him that he can finally perform, but I think he also understood what it takes to play for Arsenal Football Club week in, week out.”
Walcott has also netted eight times for England in 46 appearances, but the last of those came back in October 2015 during a 2-0 victory over Estonia.
Theo Walcott reached a notable career landmark over the weekend, but Thierry Henry believes the Arsenal forward has taken too long to get there.The England international was on target against Stoke City on Saturday, with the Gunners’ first in a 3-1 win taking him to 100 goals at club level.
It has taken him 384 games to reach a century, with this only the fourth year that he has broken into double figures.Walcott has, however, netted 10 times in only 17 appearances this term, with there now an end product to his game on a more consistent basis.
Henry is delighted to see a former protégé from his time on Arsenal’s books performing to his full potential, but feels a player of the 27-year-old’s ability should have been hitting the targets he has only just reached a long time ago.He told Sky Sports News: "For me, that should have happened way before. Theo should, for me, already be on 150, 160 or 170 goals.
"Walcott has been at the club for 10 seasons, we are not talking about a youngster that just arrived in the game and we are praising him for scoring goals.“He’s playing on a regular basis now and he deserves it because he’s working hard.
“Maybe before he didn’t deserve to start all of the time, so therefore you cannot perform. If you are not on the field, it is very difficult.
“Let’s not forget that he got injured a lot, with some very difficult injuries for him, but he’s been in and out of the squad for a long time.
“I’m happy for him that he can finally perform, but I think he also understood what it takes to play for Arsenal Football Club week in, week out.”
Walcott has also netted eight times for England in 46 appearances, but the last of those came back in October 2015 during a 2-0 victory over Estonia.
Klopp: We have our eyes open in the transfer market
Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool’s squad depth has been diminished due to injuries over the last few weeks, with the club monitoring the “difficult” January window.
The Reds have been sans Philippe Coutinho - one of the Premier League’s standout performers of the season - since he was stretched off in the 2-0 win over Sunderland with ankle ligament damage.
The loss of the Brazilian is a sizeable setback on its own, but Klopp has also been unable to field Daniel Sturridge for the past four games as the striker deals with a calf issue.
Serbian starlet Marko Grujic has a tendon complaint, while Emre Can is nursing an injured knee and Danny Ings is ruled out for the campaign with cartilage damage.
Dejan Lovren picked up cramp in the hamstring area and had to be substituted in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with West Ham, while Adam Lallana, Joel Matip and Roberto Firmino have recently recovered from differing problems.
Klopp had the young trio of Ben Woodburn, Ovie Ejaria and Trent Alexander-Arnold in reserve against Slaven Bilic’s side and conceded that Liverpool’s attacking options have been considerably weakened.
“If you watch our bench yesterday - very experienced in defence and not in the same way experienced in the offence. If the situation stays like this then it's clear that we have open eyes for everything,” the Reds boss said.
“But the winter transfer market is maybe the most difficult one because the players you want, the other clubs doesn't want to give you. It's not about money. The players you don't want, you can have. That's all.
“We are always looking. Maybe it's a surprise, but we work always hard on this part of the business because we need to have an overview about everything. That's what we do, but nothing else.”
Liverpool are expected to reignite their interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Christian Pulisic, with the Bundesliga club averse to parting with their 18-year-old prodigy.
Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool’s squad depth has been diminished due to injuries over the last few weeks, with the club monitoring the “difficult” January window.
The Reds have been sans Philippe Coutinho - one of the Premier League’s standout performers of the season - since he was stretched off in the 2-0 win over Sunderland with ankle ligament damage.
The loss of the Brazilian is a sizeable setback on its own, but Klopp has also been unable to field Daniel Sturridge for the past four games as the striker deals with a calf issue.
Serbian starlet Marko Grujic has a tendon complaint, while Emre Can is nursing an injured knee and Danny Ings is ruled out for the campaign with cartilage damage.
Dejan Lovren picked up cramp in the hamstring area and had to be substituted in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with West Ham, while Adam Lallana, Joel Matip and Roberto Firmino have recently recovered from differing problems.
Klopp had the young trio of Ben Woodburn, Ovie Ejaria and Trent Alexander-Arnold in reserve against Slaven Bilic’s side and conceded that Liverpool’s attacking options have been considerably weakened.
“If you watch our bench yesterday - very experienced in defence and not in the same way experienced in the offence. If the situation stays like this then it's clear that we have open eyes for everything,” the Reds boss said.
“But the winter transfer market is maybe the most difficult one because the players you want, the other clubs doesn't want to give you. It's not about money. The players you don't want, you can have. That's all.
“We are always looking. Maybe it's a surprise, but we work always hard on this part of the business because we need to have an overview about everything. That's what we do, but nothing else.”
Liverpool are expected to reignite their interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Christian Pulisic, with the Bundesliga club averse to parting with their 18-year-old prodigy.
Phil Jones' performances in recent weeks have surprised Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury problems.
The 24-year-old missed the majority of last season and was also absent during the opening stages of 2016-17 due to a knee issue.
Jones has been a regular starter of late, though, forming a defensive partnership with Marcos Rojo, and Mourinho is pleased with the duo.
"I am surprised how Jones has coped because, even with me, he had this injury that stopped him for a long time," Mourinho said at a news conference on Monday to preview United's Premier League clash at Crystal Palace in midweek. "He was recovering first with people he trusts in the medical department.
"Then he was working hard with one of my guys for a few weeks before he joined us, and he had a big improvement in his physical condition."Now he looks fresh, and strong, and fast and agile. He has played six matches and I do not remember the last time he did that.
"Marcos [Rojo] also had lots of problems and injuries, but he looks also free of it.
"In a period without [Eric] Bailly and [Chris] Smalling, where people could be scared, they step up and both played so many matches already without defeat. I am really happy for them. They have done very well.
"Now we have a third central defender to rotate, like we gave a rest to Jones in Ukraine [for the Europa League tie against Zoyra]. Now Jones played against Tottenham free of injuries or tiredness. So now we have a third central defender, so until the end of the year, hopefully we can manage with those three in those two positions."
Cristiano Ronaldo has beaten off competition from the likes of Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann to claim his fourth Ballon d'Or.
The prolific Portuguese, who previously lifted the prestigious prize in 2008, 2013 and 2014, has enjoyed arguably the most successful year of his illustrious career, winning the Champions League with Real Madrid before captaining his country to European Championship glory in France.
Messi, who boasts a record five Ballons d'Or, helped Barcelona win a domestic double last season but his dream of leading Argentina to a major international title was dashed by a penalty-shootout loss to Chile in the final of the Copa America.
As for Griezmann, the 24-year-old attacker fired both Atletico Madrid and France to the finals of the Champions League and Euro 2016, respectively, but he suffered the agony of defeat on both occasions.
Ronaldo, by contrast, tasted nothing but success over the summer by converting the winning spot-kick in Real's 11th European Cup triumph, in May, and then cheer-leading the Seleccao to victory over France in Paris just over six weeks later.
With the 31-year-old having already finished top of the Goal 50 and now claimed another Ballon d'Or, he is set to complete a hat-trick of individual honours for 2016 when FIFA announces the winner of its Best Player award in January.
Villarreal 3-0 Atletico Madrid: Dos Santos on target as Simeone's men stumble
Villarreal dealt Atletico Madrid's rapidly fading La Liga titles hopes another blow as they coasted to a comfortable 3-0 win at El Madrigal on Monday.
Atletico's uncharacteristic sloppiness at the back proved particularly damaging, with individual errors to blame for Villarreal's first-half goals and a third league defeat in five to leave Diego Simeone's men 12 points adrift of pacesetters Real Madrid.
Tiago was culpable for Villarreal's first goal with Manu Trigueros profiting and applying a calm finish, before a goalkeeping howler from Jan Oblak allowed Jonathan dos Santos to add the second before half-time.
Villarreal were less reluctant to commit players to attack in the second period, with their miserly defence standing up to their reputation as La Liga's best having conceded just 10 goals so far this season, but Roberto Soriano made sure of the points in the closing stages.
Atletico's front trio of Angel Correa, Kevin Gameiro and Antoine Griezmann - confirmed in third for the 2016 Ballon d'Or during the match - were starved of opportunities throughout, highlighting Villarreal's excellent display defensively.
Victory for Fran Escriba's side lifts them above Atletico and Real Sociedad to fourth, with the visitors seemingly facing a battle to even finish in the Champions League places this term.
Villarreal looked sharper from the offset, but Koke saw an effort from just inside the area deflect off Alvaro Gonzalez and hit the left-hand post in the 19th minute.
Atleti shot themselves in the foot just before the half-hour mark, though.
Tiago's pass to Diego Godin was under-hit and Trigueros pounced to steal the ball before steering a cool finish into the bottom-left corner, with the Atletico midfielder - showing no clear sign of injury - swiftly replaced by Saul Niguez.
Villarreal exploited another error to double their lead. Oblak, who was withdrawn before half-time due to injury, fumbled Alexandre Pato's cross allowing Dos Santos to prod home from close range.
The visitors perked up slightly after the break and Gameiro almost met Juanfran's teasing delivery in the 48th minute.
But Villarreal, clearly content with their two-goal lead, sat back to good effect and absorbed pressure well, with Atletico struggling to break down their stubborn defence despite dominating possession.
Villarreal's defensive repertoire was put to the test during the latter stages as they were forced to withstand an aerial bombardment from their desperate visitors.
But they stood up to the task well and ultimately finished Atletico off in stoppage time.
Soriano darted in from the right, squeezing between a couple of defenders before playing a one-two with Alfred N'Diaye and placing into the bottom-right corner to leave Simeone's men well-beaten.
Villarreal dealt Atletico Madrid's rapidly fading La Liga titles hopes another blow as they coasted to a comfortable 3-0 win at El Madrigal on Monday.
Atletico's uncharacteristic sloppiness at the back proved particularly damaging, with individual errors to blame for Villarreal's first-half goals and a third league defeat in five to leave Diego Simeone's men 12 points adrift of pacesetters Real Madrid.
Tiago was culpable for Villarreal's first goal with Manu Trigueros profiting and applying a calm finish, before a goalkeeping howler from Jan Oblak allowed Jonathan dos Santos to add the second before half-time.
Villarreal were less reluctant to commit players to attack in the second period, with their miserly defence standing up to their reputation as La Liga's best having conceded just 10 goals so far this season, but Roberto Soriano made sure of the points in the closing stages.
Atletico's front trio of Angel Correa, Kevin Gameiro and Antoine Griezmann - confirmed in third for the 2016 Ballon d'Or during the match - were starved of opportunities throughout, highlighting Villarreal's excellent display defensively.
Victory for Fran Escriba's side lifts them above Atletico and Real Sociedad to fourth, with the visitors seemingly facing a battle to even finish in the Champions League places this term.
Villarreal looked sharper from the offset, but Koke saw an effort from just inside the area deflect off Alvaro Gonzalez and hit the left-hand post in the 19th minute.
Atleti shot themselves in the foot just before the half-hour mark, though.
Tiago's pass to Diego Godin was under-hit and Trigueros pounced to steal the ball before steering a cool finish into the bottom-left corner, with the Atletico midfielder - showing no clear sign of injury - swiftly replaced by Saul Niguez.
Villarreal exploited another error to double their lead. Oblak, who was withdrawn before half-time due to injury, fumbled Alexandre Pato's cross allowing Dos Santos to prod home from close range.
The visitors perked up slightly after the break and Gameiro almost met Juanfran's teasing delivery in the 48th minute.
But Villarreal, clearly content with their two-goal lead, sat back to good effect and absorbed pressure well, with Atletico struggling to break down their stubborn defence despite dominating possession.
Villarreal's defensive repertoire was put to the test during the latter stages as they were forced to withstand an aerial bombardment from their desperate visitors.
But they stood up to the task well and ultimately finished Atletico off in stoppage time.
Soriano darted in from the right, squeezing between a couple of defenders before playing a one-two with Alfred N'Diaye and placing into the bottom-right corner to leave Simeone's men well-beaten.
Roma 1-0 Milan: Nainggolan strikes to down Rossoneri
M'Baye Niang's second penalty miss in as many matches proved costly for AC Milan as injury-hit Roma earned a 1-0 win over their Serie A title rivals thanks to Radja Nainggolan's stunning strike.
Nainggolan's individual brilliance put Luciano Spalletti's side ahead with just over an hour gone in a lacklustre encounter at Stadio Olimpico on Monday, but it came after Niang had squandered a gilt-edged chance in the first-half.
Niang fluffed his lines from the spot against Crotone last time out and the French forward could not better Wojciech Szczesny from 12 yards out on this occasion either.
Roma, without key players such as Francesco Totti and Mohamed Salah, did have the better of proceedings before the penalty incident, but failed to create any clear-cut opportunities, and were dealt a further blow when Bruno Peres picked up a seemingly serious injury before the interval.
But in spite of a rather tepid attacking display, Nainggolan's moment of inspiration proved to be the difference for the hosts, who move to within four points of Serie A leaders Juventus ahead of Saturday's top-of-the-table clash in Turin.Vincenzo Montella, who spent 10 years at Roma as a player, must now lift his side for Saturday's home encounter with Atalanta.
Roma - fresh off beating rivals Lazio last time out - had lost just once in 11 Serie A home matches versus Milan before Monday's encounter and they started well with Edin Dzeko forcing Gianluigi Donnarumma into a superb save at his near post inside two minutes.Milan weathered the storm, though, and the in-form Gianluca Lapadula just failed to latch onto Suso's cross.
Lapadula provided Milan with a great chance to go in front when he drew a clumsy foul from Szczesny in the 26th minute, but the goalkeeper atoned for his error by saving Niang's penalty low to his left.That sparked Roman back into life and a brilliant strike from Dzeko went just wide of the upright.
Roma were dealt a blow before half-time, however, when - after a crunching challenge with Mattia De Sciglio - a distraught Peres was taken from the field on a stretcher to be replaced by former Milan star Stephan El Shaarawy, himself just back from injury.Perhaps rocked by Peres' injury, Roma came out slowly at the restart, with Suso's dipping strike calling Szczesny into action.
Spalletti's men finally forged some meaningful ventures forward as the hour-mark approached - Nainggolan heading over before Diego Perotti hit the side-netting.
And Roma had their lead on 62 minutes when Nainggolan took matters into his own hands, the Belgian curling home a sumptuous finish from 30 yards following the culmination of a terrific run.
Milan did attempt to press for an equaliser late on – substitute Matias Fernandez striking straight at Szczesny from close-range – but that was all the visitors could muster as their five-match unbeaten streak in Serie A came to an end.
M'Baye Niang's second penalty miss in as many matches proved costly for AC Milan as injury-hit Roma earned a 1-0 win over their Serie A title rivals thanks to Radja Nainggolan's stunning strike.
Nainggolan's individual brilliance put Luciano Spalletti's side ahead with just over an hour gone in a lacklustre encounter at Stadio Olimpico on Monday, but it came after Niang had squandered a gilt-edged chance in the first-half.
Niang fluffed his lines from the spot against Crotone last time out and the French forward could not better Wojciech Szczesny from 12 yards out on this occasion either.
Roma, without key players such as Francesco Totti and Mohamed Salah, did have the better of proceedings before the penalty incident, but failed to create any clear-cut opportunities, and were dealt a further blow when Bruno Peres picked up a seemingly serious injury before the interval.
But in spite of a rather tepid attacking display, Nainggolan's moment of inspiration proved to be the difference for the hosts, who move to within four points of Serie A leaders Juventus ahead of Saturday's top-of-the-table clash in Turin.Vincenzo Montella, who spent 10 years at Roma as a player, must now lift his side for Saturday's home encounter with Atalanta.
Roma - fresh off beating rivals Lazio last time out - had lost just once in 11 Serie A home matches versus Milan before Monday's encounter and they started well with Edin Dzeko forcing Gianluigi Donnarumma into a superb save at his near post inside two minutes.Milan weathered the storm, though, and the in-form Gianluca Lapadula just failed to latch onto Suso's cross.
Lapadula provided Milan with a great chance to go in front when he drew a clumsy foul from Szczesny in the 26th minute, but the goalkeeper atoned for his error by saving Niang's penalty low to his left.That sparked Roman back into life and a brilliant strike from Dzeko went just wide of the upright.
Roma were dealt a blow before half-time, however, when - after a crunching challenge with Mattia De Sciglio - a distraught Peres was taken from the field on a stretcher to be replaced by former Milan star Stephan El Shaarawy, himself just back from injury.Perhaps rocked by Peres' injury, Roma came out slowly at the restart, with Suso's dipping strike calling Szczesny into action.
Spalletti's men finally forged some meaningful ventures forward as the hour-mark approached - Nainggolan heading over before Diego Perotti hit the side-netting.
And Roma had their lead on 62 minutes when Nainggolan took matters into his own hands, the Belgian curling home a sumptuous finish from 30 yards following the culmination of a terrific run.
Milan did attempt to press for an equaliser late on – substitute Matias Fernandez striking straight at Szczesny from close-range – but that was all the visitors could muster as their five-match unbeaten streak in Serie A came to an end.
Ronaldo revels in 'unforgettable' 2016 following Ballon d'Or triumph
Cristiano Ronaldo reflected on an "unforgettable" 2016 after being named the winner of the Ballon d'Or for the fourth time in his illustrious career.
The Real Madrid and Portugal superstar regained the accolade from long-time Barcelona rival Lionel Messi, with Ronaldo accruing 745 points from the jury of 173 international journalists who voted for the victor.
Ronaldo has enjoyed a sensational 12 months, winning the Champions League with Madrid and earning a first international title with Portugal at Euro 2016.
And the 31-year-old, who has 51 goals to his name for club and country so far this year, reflected that it was Portugal's success at Euro 2016, where his three tournament goals saw him match Michel Platini as the record goalscorer in European Championship history, that ranks among his best achievement.
"Winning the Euros, the Champions League and now the Ballon d'Or is unforgettable," Ronaldo told L'Equipe. "This year was the best of my career, both at an individual and at team level.
"For me, it's a great honour to receive my fourth Ballon d'Or. The emotion is the same as in the past. The dream becomes reality."Winning a first trophy with Portugal was still missing on my CV. It was one of the most important moments of my life. I will obviously not forget about the Champions League win either.
"The difference is that Madrid are used to winning trophies, Portugal had never won a major trophy. I do not want to disrespect the Champions League, but winning the Euros with Portugal was something special, on another level.
"I must thank all my team-mates. You can imagine how proud I am to receive this magnificent trophy."What is more important, win a fifth one or win again with Portugal? I think both are important to me. I will try to give the best of myself, as every time.
"The team always comes first for me. I would not have won this trophy without Real Madrid and Portugal. But I would like to enjoy this moment today, I am very happy."
Cristiano Ronaldo reflected on an "unforgettable" 2016 after being named the winner of the Ballon d'Or for the fourth time in his illustrious career.
The Real Madrid and Portugal superstar regained the accolade from long-time Barcelona rival Lionel Messi, with Ronaldo accruing 745 points from the jury of 173 international journalists who voted for the victor.
Ronaldo has enjoyed a sensational 12 months, winning the Champions League with Madrid and earning a first international title with Portugal at Euro 2016.
And the 31-year-old, who has 51 goals to his name for club and country so far this year, reflected that it was Portugal's success at Euro 2016, where his three tournament goals saw him match Michel Platini as the record goalscorer in European Championship history, that ranks among his best achievement.
"Winning the Euros, the Champions League and now the Ballon d'Or is unforgettable," Ronaldo told L'Equipe. "This year was the best of my career, both at an individual and at team level.
"For me, it's a great honour to receive my fourth Ballon d'Or. The emotion is the same as in the past. The dream becomes reality."Winning a first trophy with Portugal was still missing on my CV. It was one of the most important moments of my life. I will obviously not forget about the Champions League win either.
"The difference is that Madrid are used to winning trophies, Portugal had never won a major trophy. I do not want to disrespect the Champions League, but winning the Euros with Portugal was something special, on another level.
"I must thank all my team-mates. You can imagine how proud I am to receive this magnificent trophy."What is more important, win a fifth one or win again with Portugal? I think both are important to me. I will try to give the best of myself, as every time.
"The team always comes first for me. I would not have won this trophy without Real Madrid and Portugal. But I would like to enjoy this moment today, I am very happy."
Ronaldo and Messi are two monsters - Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann has spoken of his pride at rubbing shoulders with "two monsters" in Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi after finishing third in the 2016 Ballon d'Or rankings.
The forward enjoyed one of his best seasons last term, helping Atletico Madrid advance to the final of the Champions League and firing France to the decider of Euro 2016 on home soil, only to lose both showpiece games to Ronaldo's Real Madrid and Portugal respectively.
That trend continued on Monday, as he found himself behind Ronaldo - and runner-up Messi of Barcelona - as France Football announced the outcome of the prestigious award.
Nevertheless, the Atletico star was delighted to be recognised by many of the 173 journalists from around the world who voted to determine the winner.
"It is a great pride, an immense joy and a bit unexpected too," Griezmann told L'Equipe TV."I am happy to be in the top three and I thank those who voted for me. I'm on the right track, we have to keep working.
"Messi and Ronaldo are two monsters, two legends. To be behind them is a pride and a joy. It is necessary to continue to score, to work, to take pleasure and to give to the supporters."
As for whether or not Griezmann could one day take home the most coveted individual accolade in world football, the 25-year-old added: "It will be hard to get past [Lionel] Messi or [Cristiano] Ronaldo in the future. We will try to go higher. I hope it continues like this and that the year 2017 will be as good as this one."
Antoine Griezmann has spoken of his pride at rubbing shoulders with "two monsters" in Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi after finishing third in the 2016 Ballon d'Or rankings.
The forward enjoyed one of his best seasons last term, helping Atletico Madrid advance to the final of the Champions League and firing France to the decider of Euro 2016 on home soil, only to lose both showpiece games to Ronaldo's Real Madrid and Portugal respectively.
That trend continued on Monday, as he found himself behind Ronaldo - and runner-up Messi of Barcelona - as France Football announced the outcome of the prestigious award.
Nevertheless, the Atletico star was delighted to be recognised by many of the 173 journalists from around the world who voted to determine the winner.
"It is a great pride, an immense joy and a bit unexpected too," Griezmann told L'Equipe TV."I am happy to be in the top three and I thank those who voted for me. I'm on the right track, we have to keep working.
"Messi and Ronaldo are two monsters, two legends. To be behind them is a pride and a joy. It is necessary to continue to score, to work, to take pleasure and to give to the supporters."
As for whether or not Griezmann could one day take home the most coveted individual accolade in world football, the 25-year-old added: "It will be hard to get past [Lionel] Messi or [Cristiano] Ronaldo in the future. We will try to go higher. I hope it continues like this and that the year 2017 will be as good as this one."
Mkhitaryan reveals Arsenal legend was his footballing idol
Manchester United midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan has revealed that Arsenal legend Thierry Henry was his Premier League idol growing up.
The Gunners forward is the club's all-time leading scorer with an incredible 228 goals and is considered by many to be the best foreign player to play in English football.And Mkhitaryan was clearly a big fan of the former France international, insisting that he always followed the progress of the Arsenal striker.
He said: "I always supported Henry when he was playing for Arsenal. He is one of my favourite players because at that time I was also playing as a striker as a child. Then I became a midfielder."
Armenian star Mkhitaryan arrived from Borussia Dortmund in the summer but initially struggled for first-team minutes at Old Trafford and had only made one league start until December.
The 27-year-old has, however, featured from the off in the last four matches in all competitions, scoring in his last two games before he was injured in the second half of United's 1-0 win over Tottenham.
Reflecting on his spell out of the side, Mkhitaryan said: "It's always a pleasure to play. To play for Manchester United is a dream. I'm always happy to start a game for this team. I'm always trying to do my best for this team.
"English football is really different to football in other countries. So if you're playing in Germany, France, England or Spain you have to get used to playing in that league.
"In the beginning it was a little bit hard but I keep doing everything that is needed to become a Premier League player.
"I've done hard work and I've tried to do everything the manager is asking from me to play in this team and to be useful for the team."Mkhitaryan is set to miss United's next two games against Crystal Palace and West Brom respectively, although could return for the Boxing Day clash with Sunderland at Old Trafford.
Manchester United midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan has revealed that Arsenal legend Thierry Henry was his Premier League idol growing up.
The Gunners forward is the club's all-time leading scorer with an incredible 228 goals and is considered by many to be the best foreign player to play in English football.And Mkhitaryan was clearly a big fan of the former France international, insisting that he always followed the progress of the Arsenal striker.
He said: "I always supported Henry when he was playing for Arsenal. He is one of my favourite players because at that time I was also playing as a striker as a child. Then I became a midfielder."
Armenian star Mkhitaryan arrived from Borussia Dortmund in the summer but initially struggled for first-team minutes at Old Trafford and had only made one league start until December.
The 27-year-old has, however, featured from the off in the last four matches in all competitions, scoring in his last two games before he was injured in the second half of United's 1-0 win over Tottenham.
Reflecting on his spell out of the side, Mkhitaryan said: "It's always a pleasure to play. To play for Manchester United is a dream. I'm always happy to start a game for this team. I'm always trying to do my best for this team.
"English football is really different to football in other countries. So if you're playing in Germany, France, England or Spain you have to get used to playing in that league.
"In the beginning it was a little bit hard but I keep doing everything that is needed to become a Premier League player.
"I've done hard work and I've tried to do everything the manager is asking from me to play in this team and to be useful for the team."Mkhitaryan is set to miss United's next two games against Crystal Palace and West Brom respectively, although could return for the Boxing Day clash with Sunderland at Old Trafford.
Alli rubbishes talk of €60million PSG move
Dele Alli insists his future is at Tottenham despite speculation over a possible transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Ligue 1 champions have been linked with a €60million bid for the England international following his exceptional first 18 months in the Premier League.Alli, however, has dismissed talk of a move away from White Hart Lane and says he is at the ideal club to continue his development.
"It's all just rumours to be honest with you," he told Sky Sports News."I have just signed a new contract with Tottenham, I am happy here. I couldn't think of a better place to be at my age.
"It has been a great year for me, I have had a lot of success in my career so far but I have got to keep improving, keep getting better, and make sure 2017 is even better."
Spurs were beaten 1-0 by Manchester United on Sunday, a result that leaves them 10 points adrift of league leaders Chelsea after 15 matches.
But despite a run of only two wins in their last eight league games, Alli believes they are still involved in the title race."I think so," said the 20-year-old. "We are a team that is confident in ourselves, we fancy ourselves against anyone.
"I think we need to be a little bit more consistent. We are still working on it and we are still working together as a team."But we have got a great side and we are happy to sit underneath the radar and just keep picking up points.
"It is no good being good in halves of games or in one game and not in the next one. When we find our rhythm, I am sure we will be a great team again."
Dele Alli insists his future is at Tottenham despite speculation over a possible transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Ligue 1 champions have been linked with a €60million bid for the England international following his exceptional first 18 months in the Premier League.Alli, however, has dismissed talk of a move away from White Hart Lane and says he is at the ideal club to continue his development.
"It's all just rumours to be honest with you," he told Sky Sports News."I have just signed a new contract with Tottenham, I am happy here. I couldn't think of a better place to be at my age.
"It has been a great year for me, I have had a lot of success in my career so far but I have got to keep improving, keep getting better, and make sure 2017 is even better."
Spurs were beaten 1-0 by Manchester United on Sunday, a result that leaves them 10 points adrift of league leaders Chelsea after 15 matches.
But despite a run of only two wins in their last eight league games, Alli believes they are still involved in the title race."I think so," said the 20-year-old. "We are a team that is confident in ourselves, we fancy ourselves against anyone.
"I think we need to be a little bit more consistent. We are still working on it and we are still working together as a team."But we have got a great side and we are happy to sit underneath the radar and just keep picking up points.
"It is no good being good in halves of games or in one game and not in the next one. When we find our rhythm, I am sure we will be a great team again."
Lewandowski signs new Bayern contract
Bayern Munich have announced that Robert Lewandowski has extended his contract until 2021.
The 28-year-old, who joined from Borussia Dortmund in 2014, has been in talks with the club in recent weeks over the renewal of a deal that was due to expire in 2019.
Bayern president Uli Hoeness stated last week he was "pretty sure" that Lewandowski would commit his future to the club, despite speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid.
And the striker, who on Monday was named the 16th-best player in Europe from France Football, says he is delighted to have brought rumours over his future to an end with a new four-and-a-half-year deal.
"I am very pleased that negotiations have led to a positive outcome and that I've still got a few years ahead at FC Bayern," he told the club's website."We still have some great objectives together."Lewandowski added via his official Twitter account: "This club gives me all i need to make my dreams come true! New challenges ahead of us!"
Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said of the deal: "I'm delighted that we've been able to come to a long-term agreement with Robert Lewandowski, one of the best strikers in the world.
"This means that we've ensured that one of the key players in our squad will continue wearing the FC Bayern kit over the coming years."
Deputy chairman of the board Jan-Christian Dreesen added: "They were intense but always respectful and fair discussions. I want to thank the representatives of Robert Lewandowski for the constructive negotiations."
Lewandowski, who last week announced his wife Anna is expecting the pair's first child, already has 19 goals in 22 games this season after a career-best return of 30 goals in 32 league games last term as Bayern sealed a record fourth consecutive top-flight title.
Bayern Munich have announced that Robert Lewandowski has extended his contract until 2021.
The 28-year-old, who joined from Borussia Dortmund in 2014, has been in talks with the club in recent weeks over the renewal of a deal that was due to expire in 2019.
Bayern president Uli Hoeness stated last week he was "pretty sure" that Lewandowski would commit his future to the club, despite speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid.
And the striker, who on Monday was named the 16th-best player in Europe from France Football, says he is delighted to have brought rumours over his future to an end with a new four-and-a-half-year deal.
"I am very pleased that negotiations have led to a positive outcome and that I've still got a few years ahead at FC Bayern," he told the club's website."We still have some great objectives together."Lewandowski added via his official Twitter account: "This club gives me all i need to make my dreams come true! New challenges ahead of us!"
Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said of the deal: "I'm delighted that we've been able to come to a long-term agreement with Robert Lewandowski, one of the best strikers in the world.
"This means that we've ensured that one of the key players in our squad will continue wearing the FC Bayern kit over the coming years."
Deputy chairman of the board Jan-Christian Dreesen added: "They were intense but always respectful and fair discussions. I want to thank the representatives of Robert Lewandowski for the constructive negotiations."
Lewandowski, who last week announced his wife Anna is expecting the pair's first child, already has 19 goals in 22 games this season after a career-best return of 30 goals in 32 league games last term as Bayern sealed a record fourth consecutive top-flight title.
Bournemouth 1-0 Leicester City: Pugh fires Cherries past Foxes
Leicester City were given a reality check on Tuesday as they followed up their impressive dismantling of Manchester City with an underwhelming 1-0 defeat at Bournemouth.
The Premier League champions wowed in Saturday's 4-2 win over City and showed glimpses of the form which secured their historic title success, but they struggled to replicate that display at the Vitality Stadium and rarely looked like completing back-to-back top-flight wins for the first time since April.
Although Leicester started brightly, Bournemouth got to grips with their visitors soon enough and afforded them few opportunities, with Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy – confirmed seventh and eighth respectively in the 2016 Ballon d'Or on Monday – particularly quiet.
Marc Pugh's 34th-minute strike gave Bournemouth the lead they deserved during a strong first-half display, as the hosts made the most of Leicester's passive performance.
Leicester mustered a collective improvement after the break but they rarely looked menacing in attack despite getting men forward in numbers on occasion
Their desperate late efforts amounted to something of an aerial bombardment, but Bournemouth dealt with the approach with ease and ultimately held on to a win that lifts them to eighth in the table.
Leicester were 2-0 up inside five minutes against Pep Guardiola's men at the weekend and they began with similar purpose at the Vitality Stadium.
Vardy was the first to trouble Bournemouth, racing on to Mahrez's through pass and seeing his eventual shot blocked by Steve Cook after skipping beyond Artur Boruc.Islam Slimani should have done better shortly after, completely missing the ball in the centre of the box following a pinpoint Marc Albrighton delivery.
Bournemouth gradually started to exert control, with Jack Wilshere forcing Ron-Robert Zieler into action 21 minutes in – the German saving the 20-yard effort down to his left.The hosts were not to be denied just after the half-hour mark, though.
Zieler initially made a smart save to deny Benik Afobe from Adam Smith's cut-back, but Pugh - making his first start of the season - latched on to the rebound on the edge of the area and produced a half-volley which found the net despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to it.
Claudio Ranieri - taking charge of his 200th Premier League match - withdrew the ineffective Slimani at the break and introduced Shinji Okazaki, but still Bournemouth looked the more likely to find the net and they almost did in the 52nd minute.
Simon Francis pulled the ball back to the edge of the area and Smith sent his curling effort agonisingly over.Leicester did enjoy some pressure towards the end and Robert Huth saw a header go just wide of the left-hand post.
Bournemouth were then forced to rely upon Boruc in stoppage time, when the Polish goalkeeper kept out Leonardo Ulloa's point-blank effort to effectively secure all three points.
Leicester City were given a reality check on Tuesday as they followed up their impressive dismantling of Manchester City with an underwhelming 1-0 defeat at Bournemouth.
The Premier League champions wowed in Saturday's 4-2 win over City and showed glimpses of the form which secured their historic title success, but they struggled to replicate that display at the Vitality Stadium and rarely looked like completing back-to-back top-flight wins for the first time since April.
Although Leicester started brightly, Bournemouth got to grips with their visitors soon enough and afforded them few opportunities, with Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy – confirmed seventh and eighth respectively in the 2016 Ballon d'Or on Monday – particularly quiet.
Marc Pugh's 34th-minute strike gave Bournemouth the lead they deserved during a strong first-half display, as the hosts made the most of Leicester's passive performance.
Leicester mustered a collective improvement after the break but they rarely looked menacing in attack despite getting men forward in numbers on occasion
Their desperate late efforts amounted to something of an aerial bombardment, but Bournemouth dealt with the approach with ease and ultimately held on to a win that lifts them to eighth in the table.
Leicester were 2-0 up inside five minutes against Pep Guardiola's men at the weekend and they began with similar purpose at the Vitality Stadium.
Vardy was the first to trouble Bournemouth, racing on to Mahrez's through pass and seeing his eventual shot blocked by Steve Cook after skipping beyond Artur Boruc.Islam Slimani should have done better shortly after, completely missing the ball in the centre of the box following a pinpoint Marc Albrighton delivery.
Bournemouth gradually started to exert control, with Jack Wilshere forcing Ron-Robert Zieler into action 21 minutes in – the German saving the 20-yard effort down to his left.The hosts were not to be denied just after the half-hour mark, though.
Zieler initially made a smart save to deny Benik Afobe from Adam Smith's cut-back, but Pugh - making his first start of the season - latched on to the rebound on the edge of the area and produced a half-volley which found the net despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to it.
Claudio Ranieri - taking charge of his 200th Premier League match - withdrew the ineffective Slimani at the break and introduced Shinji Okazaki, but still Bournemouth looked the more likely to find the net and they almost did in the 52nd minute.
Simon Francis pulled the ball back to the edge of the area and Smith sent his curling effort agonisingly over.Leicester did enjoy some pressure towards the end and Robert Huth saw a header go just wide of the left-hand post.
Bournemouth were then forced to rely upon Boruc in stoppage time, when the Polish goalkeeper kept out Leonardo Ulloa's point-blank effort to effectively secure all three points.
Everton 2-1 Arsenal: Williams strikes late to down Gunners
Ashley Williams proved to be the unlikely hero for 10-man Everton as they handed Arsenal their second Premier League defeat of the season by securing a dramatic 2-1 victory at Goodison Park on Tuesday.
Defender Williams headed home Ross Barkley's corner in the 86th minute to clinch just a second league victory in the last 11 outings for Ronald Koeman's side
Alexis Sanchez's 12th league goal of the season had given the visitors a 20th-minute lead, though his free-kick needed a deflection off the unfortunate Williams to find the net.
Yet any ideas Arsene Wenger's men had of taking over from Chelsea at the top of the league disappeared when they conceded late on in each half to lose on their travels for the first time since March.
Everton levelled just prior to the interval when full-backs Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman conjured up an equaliser, the former's right-footed cross setting up the latter to head home from close range.
Williams then popped up with a winner, although that was not the end of the drama. Phil Jagielka saw red in injury time after picking up a second booking, as the hosts just about held firm in a frantic finish.
Barkley, in as one of four changes from the defeat at Watford, was involved in the opening goal too, surrendering possession to trigger an Arsenal counter-attack that was emphatically halted by Phil Jagielka's lunge on Francis Coquelin.
Sanchez capitalised on the set-piece opportunity, his low strike from the edge of the area clipped off Williams' standing leg and beyond wrong-footed goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg.But, after a tepid start, Everton eventually warmed to their task.Romelu Lukaku and Aaron Lennon both wasted opportunities to test Petr Cech by blasting wide before Coleman scored a deserved equaliser a minute before the break.
Having gambled on running into the penalty area from his usual position on the flank, Coleman was picked out by an inviting centre from Baines to nod his side level.
Arsenal wasted a glorious chance to retake the lead in the opening minutes of the second half when Mesut Ozil lifted his shot over after meeting Sanchez's low cross from the left.
The German looked set to have another opportunity as Hector Bellerin's pass put him through on goal, only for Stekelenburg to rush from his line and smother the danger.At the other end, Cech was relieved to see Barkley drag a low, left-footed drive just wide of the target.
Wenger summoned Alex Iwobi and Olivier Giroud from the bench in an attempt to find a winning goal in the final 20 minutes, yet it was Williams who had the final say with his first Everton goal.
The Wales international rose high to powerfully head home, then showed strength in his own penalty area during a goalmouth scramble in injury time after Jagileka had been dismissed by referee Mark Clattenburg.
Ashley Williams proved to be the unlikely hero for 10-man Everton as they handed Arsenal their second Premier League defeat of the season by securing a dramatic 2-1 victory at Goodison Park on Tuesday.
Defender Williams headed home Ross Barkley's corner in the 86th minute to clinch just a second league victory in the last 11 outings for Ronald Koeman's side
Alexis Sanchez's 12th league goal of the season had given the visitors a 20th-minute lead, though his free-kick needed a deflection off the unfortunate Williams to find the net.
Yet any ideas Arsene Wenger's men had of taking over from Chelsea at the top of the league disappeared when they conceded late on in each half to lose on their travels for the first time since March.
Everton levelled just prior to the interval when full-backs Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman conjured up an equaliser, the former's right-footed cross setting up the latter to head home from close range.
Williams then popped up with a winner, although that was not the end of the drama. Phil Jagielka saw red in injury time after picking up a second booking, as the hosts just about held firm in a frantic finish.
Barkley, in as one of four changes from the defeat at Watford, was involved in the opening goal too, surrendering possession to trigger an Arsenal counter-attack that was emphatically halted by Phil Jagielka's lunge on Francis Coquelin.
Sanchez capitalised on the set-piece opportunity, his low strike from the edge of the area clipped off Williams' standing leg and beyond wrong-footed goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg.But, after a tepid start, Everton eventually warmed to their task.Romelu Lukaku and Aaron Lennon both wasted opportunities to test Petr Cech by blasting wide before Coleman scored a deserved equaliser a minute before the break.
Having gambled on running into the penalty area from his usual position on the flank, Coleman was picked out by an inviting centre from Baines to nod his side level.
Arsenal wasted a glorious chance to retake the lead in the opening minutes of the second half when Mesut Ozil lifted his shot over after meeting Sanchez's low cross from the left.
The German looked set to have another opportunity as Hector Bellerin's pass put him through on goal, only for Stekelenburg to rush from his line and smother the danger.At the other end, Cech was relieved to see Barkley drag a low, left-footed drive just wide of the target.
Wenger summoned Alex Iwobi and Olivier Giroud from the bench in an attempt to find a winning goal in the final 20 minutes, yet it was Williams who had the final say with his first Everton goal.
The Wales international rose high to powerfully head home, then showed strength in his own penalty area during a goalmouth scramble in injury time after Jagileka had been dismissed by referee Mark Clattenburg.
Leicester set unwanted record with miserable away form
Leicester City now have the worst away record of any Premier League champion at this stage of a title defence, having collected just one point.
Claudio Ranieri's men fell to another defeat on their travels at Bournemouth on Tuesday, Marc Pugh netting the winner, meaning the champions' draw at Tottenham remains their only return after eight matches away from the King Power Stadium this term.
It is a different story this season, though, with the loss at Bournemouth following similar reverses at Hull City, Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Watford and Sunderland.
The Foxes' next outing also sees them head out on the road, with a trip to the Bet365 Stadium to face Stoke City due to be made on December 17.
Leicester City now have the worst away record of any Premier League champion at this stage of a title defence, having collected just one point.
Claudio Ranieri's men fell to another defeat on their travels at Bournemouth on Tuesday, Marc Pugh netting the winner, meaning the champions' draw at Tottenham remains their only return after eight matches away from the King Power Stadium this term.
It is a different story this season, though, with the loss at Bournemouth following similar reverses at Hull City, Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Watford and Sunderland.
The Foxes' next outing also sees them head out on the road, with a trip to the Bet365 Stadium to face Stoke City due to be made on December 17.
England sign £400 million kit deal
The Football Association has announced an extension to their "long-term partnership" with Nike, effective from August 2018.The deal is worth over £400 million and will see the England national side continue to don jerseys produced by the sportswear company.
They will do so until 2030, with all 24 teams based at St George’s Park set to be supplied with playing and training apparel.A big-money agreement will also benefit the game at grass roots level.
The FA is a not-for-profit organisation and will continue to fund initiatives at the lower end of the football pyramid, along with the growth of the women’s game throughout the country.
Mark Bullingham, FA group commercial and marketing director, said: "We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with Nike until 2030. It was always important for us to secure such a long-term commitment to allow both parties to build an even stronger partnership together."With The FA striving to be a world-class organisation, it’s vital for us to partner with innovative global leaders such as Nike and look to the future together.
“As well as supplying all of our England teams with state-of-the-art apparel, Nike is a huge supporter of our technical division’s work and of grassroots football across the country. It’s fantastic that this support will not only continue but increase from now until 2030.”
FA chief executive Martin Glenn added: "This is another hugely significant deal for The FA and closely follows the landmark Emirates FA Cup broadcast rights announcement last October.
"As a not-for-profit organisation, this new deal with Nike will allow The FA to invest even more into the game and make football available for all. I’d like to thank Nike for their continued support of the England teams and English football."
England have worn Nike kits in their last two appearances at major finals.
At the 2014 World Cup, they suffered a disappointing exit at the group stage.They did make it a little further at the 2016 European Championship, but were stunned in the last 16 by surprise package Iceland.
Positive progress is being made towards the 2018 World Cup in Russia, while Gareth Southgate has been handed the managerial reins on a permanent basis after impressing in an interim role on the back of Sam Allardyce’s departure.
The Football Association has announced an extension to their "long-term partnership" with Nike, effective from August 2018.The deal is worth over £400 million and will see the England national side continue to don jerseys produced by the sportswear company.
They will do so until 2030, with all 24 teams based at St George’s Park set to be supplied with playing and training apparel.A big-money agreement will also benefit the game at grass roots level.
The FA is a not-for-profit organisation and will continue to fund initiatives at the lower end of the football pyramid, along with the growth of the women’s game throughout the country.
Mark Bullingham, FA group commercial and marketing director, said: "We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with Nike until 2030. It was always important for us to secure such a long-term commitment to allow both parties to build an even stronger partnership together."With The FA striving to be a world-class organisation, it’s vital for us to partner with innovative global leaders such as Nike and look to the future together.
“As well as supplying all of our England teams with state-of-the-art apparel, Nike is a huge supporter of our technical division’s work and of grassroots football across the country. It’s fantastic that this support will not only continue but increase from now until 2030.”
FA chief executive Martin Glenn added: "This is another hugely significant deal for The FA and closely follows the landmark Emirates FA Cup broadcast rights announcement last October.
"As a not-for-profit organisation, this new deal with Nike will allow The FA to invest even more into the game and make football available for all. I’d like to thank Nike for their continued support of the England teams and English football."
England have worn Nike kits in their last two appearances at major finals.
At the 2014 World Cup, they suffered a disappointing exit at the group stage.They did make it a little further at the 2016 European Championship, but were stunned in the last 16 by surprise package Iceland.
Positive progress is being made towards the 2018 World Cup in Russia, while Gareth Southgate has been handed the managerial reins on a permanent basis after impressing in an interim role on the back of Sam Allardyce’s departure.
Mourinho open to offers for Man Utd duo Depay and Schneiderlin
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has said he is more than happy to listen to offers as out-of-favour duo Memphis Depay and Morgan Schneiderlin near the Old Trafford exit door.
Signed by former boss Louis van Gaal in 2014, Depay and Schneiderlin have found themselves on the fringes of the fold this season, repeatedly being overlooked by Mourinho.
Depay and Schneiderlin failed to make it on the bench for Sunday's 1-0 Premier League win at home to Tottenham, having been left out of the squad for the Europa League fixture in Ukraine on Thursday.And as the January transfer window draws nearer, Mourinho is ready to cash in.
"I am always open to listen to offers for every player. More than listen to offers, I am always ready to listen to the players themselves," the Portuguese tactician said ahead of Wednesday's match at Crystal Palace.
"So any player who knocks on my door and is not happy and wants to move, when the offers are correct, I will never stop a player from leaving even if it is to a rival."When [Juan] Mata left Chelsea to come to Manchester United [in 2014], in my mentality, [It's] no problem at all. I am always open."
Mourinho added: "Sometimes in matches – and matches is the place where the evaluation is real – you get disappointed with a performance. But in training, the professionalism and the way they do it, I can only say good things about everyone.
"I am happy with the squad I have. I would like my squad to be my squad until the end of the season and I am not going to any player to say, 'You are going to leave' because I am not happy, because I don't want to have him."One player who could stay beyond January is former Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger.
Banished from the first team upon Mourinho's arrival in the off-season, Schweinsteiger made a surprise return to the fold in United's EFL Cup win over West Ham last month.
Schweinsteiger is yet to feature since but Mourinho said: "I do [expect him to stay]. Unless again, the player knocks on our door with a future that he wants to grab with both hands."We have Premier League, Europa League, then in the League Cup we have a two-legged semi and hopefully one more match in the final.
"The FA Cup is a lot of matches, so our number of players is not so big, even Schweinsteiger is back to the group which was exactly the intention because he is one more option for us."
'I could have been even more phenomenal' - Ibrahimovic wishes he could turn back the clock
Regrets and second guessing are not characteristics you would readily associate with one of the most confident players in the world, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Nevertheless, the Manchester United star appears to be wrestling with the looming reality of his footballing mortality. Now 35, the striker has retired from international duty and is likely to have only a handful of seasons left before finally hanging up his boots altogether.
In an interview with the United website, Ibrahimovic expressed the desire to have combined his late-career wisdom with the energy and vitality of youth. "I think I play much more intelligently now because, of course, you change a lot during the years," he said.
"You get a different physique, you get a different condition, strengths and experiences. But I wish I had the mind that I have today 10 years ago, because then I [would have been] even more phenomenal."
Ibrahimovic at least has a positive outlet for any such wistful emotions, the Serie A, LaLiga and Ligue 1 title-winner having taken it upon himself to nurture emerging United talent and fellow forward Marcus Rashford."I try to help in every way I can with my experience and the goals will come," he said.
"Goals are extra, a bonus let's say. If I score, then I help the team, but I think I can help in many ways and this is the experience thing. Marcus is a young player, his career has just begun and I am towards the end of my career.
"I try to help in many ways without the ball, with the ball, with movements, by communicating, by sacrificing. It is part of the game and as a player I want to be as complete as possible, so this is one of the things I have been trying to do."United are back in Premier League action away to Crystal Palace on Wednesday.
Regrets and second guessing are not characteristics you would readily associate with one of the most confident players in the world, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Nevertheless, the Manchester United star appears to be wrestling with the looming reality of his footballing mortality. Now 35, the striker has retired from international duty and is likely to have only a handful of seasons left before finally hanging up his boots altogether.
In an interview with the United website, Ibrahimovic expressed the desire to have combined his late-career wisdom with the energy and vitality of youth. "I think I play much more intelligently now because, of course, you change a lot during the years," he said.
"You get a different physique, you get a different condition, strengths and experiences. But I wish I had the mind that I have today 10 years ago, because then I [would have been] even more phenomenal."
Ibrahimovic at least has a positive outlet for any such wistful emotions, the Serie A, LaLiga and Ligue 1 title-winner having taken it upon himself to nurture emerging United talent and fellow forward Marcus Rashford."I try to help in every way I can with my experience and the goals will come," he said.
"Goals are extra, a bonus let's say. If I score, then I help the team, but I think I can help in many ways and this is the experience thing. Marcus is a young player, his career has just begun and I am towards the end of my career.
"I try to help in many ways without the ball, with the ball, with movements, by communicating, by sacrificing. It is part of the game and as a player I want to be as complete as possible, so this is one of the things I have been trying to do."United are back in Premier League action away to Crystal Palace on Wednesday.
