..::Football IV::..

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Pogba, Martial & Rashford must entertain Man Utd fans, says Giggs


Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs urged Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba to remove the shackles and start entertaining supporters.

Wales manager Giggs came through United's academy, played for the first team between 1991 and 2014 and previously served as Louis van Gaal's assistant at Old Trafford.The Red Devils' style of play has come under criticism since Alex Ferguson departed five years ago, and Giggs is keen to see the current crop show the same commitment to entertainment that he did.




"First of all, I was a Manchester United fan," he told ESPN FC. "I used to climb over the fence when I was a seven, eight-year-old, get the match bus to Old Trafford."Right from when I can remember, I used to go to Old Trafford and then, fast-forward to 17, 18, I played for the first team. I understand how the club works, what the fans want, because I was a fan.

"I was also a player who wanted to excite the crowd, to get the fans on their feet. I want to see exciting players. I want to see Rashford, I want to see Martial, I want to see Pogba try things. That's what I tried to do when I was playing."Giggs also believes a strong core of players steeped in the club's tradition will be crucial as they bid to bring back the glory years that were so memorable under Ferguson.

"Football's changing, but you still have the likes of Rashford, [Jesse] Lingard, Pogba - who was there when he was younger," he added."You've got Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young, Michael Carrick's just left, but a group of players who know what the club's about.

"I think it's always important to have that. It doesn't guarantee you success - and if you don't have that it doesn't mean you're not going to win - but it always helps if you do have that sort of team spirit."

 

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'He must raise his level' - Deschamps wants more from 'indispensable' Pogba


France boss Didier Deschamps has done his best to shield midfielder Paul Pogba from critics but did accept that Manchester United star must raise his level.Pogba started France’s 3-1 friendly victory over Italy earlier this week in Nice but had a difficult time making an impression and was even booed by his own supporters.

Numerous team-mates, including Corentin Tolisso, came out in support of the 25-year-old after those incidents, and head coach Deschamps, who had also previously criticised the jeers, has also weighed in with his assessment of the player’s performance.“I’m not going to question him because I know the potential of Paul,” Deschamps told TF1’s ‘Telefoot’ programme. “I know what he’s capable of, but he must raise his level of play.

“If I’ve picked him, it’s because for me he is indispensable.“I’ve got confidence in him, just as I’ve got confidence in the other players that I have chosen. I’ll pick him again. “He wasn’t successful in everything he did, but he contributed to the team, which was well organised.”

Pogba has played 53 times for his country and has scored nine goals, the latest of which was in a recent 3-1 friendly success over Russia.Meanwhile, attacker Antoine Griezmann, who found the net against the Azzurri, said: “We’re on the right track, we won, but we’ve still got lots of things to work on and to learn.

“We must find the right tactics, the best system for the team. The coach is considering what must be his tactics for the first match at the World Cup.”France are in Group C, which sees them face Australia, Peru and Denmark as they chase their second world crown.

Two years ago, they earned valuable major-tournament experience as they finished as runners-up to Portugal in Euro 2016 on home soil.Griezmann was one of the stars of that competition, and with 20 goals in 53 caps for Les Bleus is expected to be one of their leaders in Russia.

Before the competition begins, though, they have the opportunity to refine their tactics just once more as they face the USA in a clash on June 9, which will take place in Lyon.

 

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Muller hints at possible Bayern Munich exit


Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller hinted he could be tempted by a move away from the Bundesliga champions.

The 28-year-old has played for Bayern for his entire career and is contracted until 2021, but has often been linked with a departure from Bavaria, most notably to Manchester United.During his time at the Allianz Arena, the forward has won seven Bundesliga titles, four German Cups as well as the Champions League in 2012-13.

Muller, who is expected to be named in Joachim Low's final 23-man Germany squad for the World Cup, has now offered signs he could be swayed by a new challenge."Another task would certainly be interesting and attractive," he told Welt Am Sonntag."If the situation is different, a lot can happen. "Basically, it is very difficult to get away from Bayern. Currently I have no thoughts to do something else."

The forward sat out Germany's 2-1 friendly defeat to Austria on Saturday but is expected to feature in their final World Cup warm-up game against Saudi Arabia on Friday in Leverkusen.Muller's Bayern team-mate Robert Lewandowski has also been heavily tipped with a move away from Germany this summer, with the rumours intensifying after his agent Pini Zahavi told Bild that the striker wanted a "new challenge."

A number of other players at the club could also be on the move this summer, with Thiago and Jerome Boateng among the stars who have spoken to the media about possible exits.

 

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Belgium 0 Portugal 0: Kompany hurt in dull pre-World Cup draw

Vincent Kompany was replaced with an apparent injury as Belgium and Portugal continued their World Cup preparations with a low-key 0-0 draw in Brussels.

Jan Vertonghen, already Belgium's most-capped player, made his 100th appearance for the national team, the Tottenham centre-back lining up in Roberto Martinez's back line, but the coach will be concerned about Kompany after he was substituted early in the second half.

It was defences on top for the majority of Saturday's clash of the European heavyweights at the King Baudouin Stadium, goalkeepers Beto and Thibaut Courtois untested during a flat first half.Vertonghen's strike produced a fine save from Beto in the 55th minute, while Martinez avoided further selection headaches after opposite number Courtois shook off an apparent wrist injury after being caught by Ricardo Quaresma.

Despite Belgium boasting talent including Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku in their XI the hosts failed to find top gear against a stodgy Portugal side that toiled creatively without their talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, who is on holiday following the Champions League final.

Euro 2016 winners Portugal will welcome the Real Madrid superstar back before Russia 2018, but Belgium coach Martinez will face more questions about his tactics after a flat display from his hotly-tipped side.


Goncalo Guedes and De Bruyne sent early efforts off target as both sides took time to settle into any rhythm in Brussels.Courtois made the game's first save in the 23rd minute, but the long-range strike from Joao Moutinho was likely sailing wide of the Chelsea goalkeeper's right-hand post.Yannick Carrasco rippled the side-netting with a drive after beating a series of defenders with a dangerous dribble, before Courtois was called into more routine action at the other end, saving comfortably from Raphael Guerreiro.

Portugal were the more threatening side before the interval and when Gelson Martins teased an inswinging cross into the box in the 40th minute, Guedes should have hit the target.Vertonghen almost marked his 100th appearance with a lovely strike, but when he collected a lay-off from Marouane Fellaini and fired at goal, Beto made a fine flying save high to his right.

Martinez had to replace Kompany with Dedryck Boyata in the 55th minute after the Manchester City captain appeared to pull a muscle in the process of making a tackle, potentially putting his World Cup place in doubt. And there was an injury scare for Courtois mid-way through the second half, substitute Quaresma accidentally treading on the goalkeeper's wrist as he raced through on goal.



Thomas Meunier forced another decent Beto stop in the 64th minute as Belgium had the better of the second half, but they were unable to break the deadlock as the scoreline from the last meeting between these sides on Belgian soil in 2000 was repeated.With the World Cup less than two weeks away, Fernando Santos will hope for a positive prognosis on Beto after the Portugal goalkeeper appeared to hurt his thigh late in the game.

Belgium have two more warm-up games scheduled, the first of which is against Egypt on Wednesday, while Portugal will head to Russia after their final fixture against Algeria on Thursday, but Martinez will be hoping for positive news on Kompany before naming his final 23-man squad.

 

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Austria 2 Germany 1: Neuer makes comeback in surprise defeat

Manuel Neuer made his long-awaited comeback as Germany slipped to a surprise 2-1 pre-World Cup friendly defeat to Austria.

The Bayern Munich goalkeeper's first appearance since suffering a foot injury in September had looked in jeopardy after heavy rain hit Klagenfurt shortly before kick-off.After officials undertook three separate pitch inspections, the game finally started an hour and 45 minutes later than originally scheduled.




However, that uncertainty did little to disrupt Mesut Ozil, who took advantage of an early error from Austria goalkeeper Jorg Siebenhandl to give Joachim Low's side an 11th-minute lead.

Yet Austria were a much tougher proposition in the second period, with Martin Hinteregger and Alessandro Schopf scoring fine goals to seal a memorable triumph over their neighbours and stretch their winning streak to an impressive seven games.Germany will look to get their preparations back on track when Saudi Arabia travel to Leverkusen on Friday before starting their bid to retain the World Cup against Group F rivals Mexico on June 17.


After such a lengthy delay, it was hardly surprising that the game started in disjointed fashion with neither side able to fashion anything resembling a chance.

That changed after 11 minutes, though, thanks to Siebenhandl’s mistake. The Sturm Graz keeper inexplicably clipped his attempted clearance straight to Ozil, who took a touch before curling a left-footed strike into the far corner.Germany really should have doubled their advantage 10 minutes later, but Julian Brandt's low effort after a flowing move was diverted agonisingly past the far post by the legs of Siebenhandl.

Shortly before half-time, Neuer demonstrated that his lay-off had done nothing to diminish his agility. Florian Grillitsch must have thought his low strike was creeping in at the near post, only for the 32-year-old to get down sharply and push the ball past the post.

The hosts started the second period with the type of intensity that was lacking in their tepid first-half display and were duly rewarded with a fine equaliser after 53 minutes.David Alaba's deep corner from Austria’s right was met at the back post by the unmarked Hinteregger, who flashed a fierce, first-time volley from a tight angle beyond the helpless Neuer.



Marko Arnautovic was denied just moments later by Neuer’s outstretched hand as Austria pinned their illustrious opponents against the ropes.Their deserved winner arrived in the 69th minute when Schopf met Stefan Lainer's back-post knockdown, the Schalke midfielder sweeping a first-time effort into the net to complete the turnaround.

Low made a raft of substitutions in the closing stages, but none of the changes had the desired impact as Germany’s World Cup preparations suffered an unlikely setback.

 

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England 2 Nigeria 1: Three Lions impress in World Cup warm-up

England enjoyed a morale-boosting Wembley triumph with a 2-1 win over Nigeria in their penultimate match before heading to the World Cup in Russia.

Gareth Southgate's side, who have one more friendly to come against Costa Rica on Thursday, begin their Group G campaign against Tunisia on June 18 and looked primed and ready on the evidence of Saturday's energetic outing.Gary Cahill headed the hosts into a seventh-minute lead from Kieran Trippier's corner, the Chelsea defender eluding all of those bedecked in Nigeria's eye-catching colours.




After a week of being subjected to media scrutiny for his choice of tattoo and subsequent late arrival at the team's training camp, Raheem Sterling – who was booked for diving in the second half – had a sight of glory soon after the opener, but he miscued when one-on-one.Despite seeing Sterling spurn another couple of promising openings, England did double their lead before the interval when captain Harry Kane's low drive squirmed underneath Francis Uzoho.

Nigeria halved the deficit two minutes into the second half courtesy of Alex Iwobi's cool finish after Odion Ighalo had struck the upright.But Gernot Rohr's men could not force their way through again and England improved their record at Wembley to just one defeat in the last 21 matches.


Southgate, who was an unused substitute when England last met Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup, handed Jordan Pickford a start in goal, but the Everton goalkeeper was largely a spectator in the first half.

The home side won an early free-kick and Trippier's strike forced a smart stop from Uzoho.But it was from the resulting corner that England took the lead, Cahill leaping to powerfully head home Trippier's outswinging delivery.

Sterling had a chance to write some more positive headlines when he raced through from Dele Alli's pass, but his finish was wayward.The Manchester City star – who netted 18 Premier League goals for the 2017-18 champions – teed up Ashley Young for another England chance in the 19th minute, but his close-range effort was blocked and smuggled to safety.

A rapid counter-attack saw Sterling sent scampering into the box by Young, only for the former Liverpool winger's decision-making to let him down as he failed to pick out a team-mate.Another opening came and went as Sterling fired over the crossbar before Kane got the second, his skidding effort somehow sneaking past the goalkeeper.

The Super Eagles needed a second-half response and quickly delivered after a change of shape to match their opponents, Iwobi side-footing in after Ighalo's shot came back off the post.

Sterling went in the book for taking an unnecessary tumble in the box and Eric Dier rose to head wide as England sought to reassert themselves.Ultimately Southgate's charges did manage to restore order, holding onto their advantage with relative ease as the likes of Marcus Rashford, Danny Welbeck and Ruben Loftus-Cheek were afforded some game time late on, while Fabian Delph got his first international outing since 2015.

England will now seek to make it 10 unbeaten when they face Costa Rica, while Nigeria take on Czech Republic on Wednesday ahead of their big-kick off against Croatia in a fortnight.

 

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Mourinho's future plan leaves him open to lengthy Man Utd stay


Jose Mourinho claims to be “even further” away from a move into international management as he commits himself fully to club football at Manchester United.

The 55-year-old has admitted in the past that he hopes to one day have the opportunity to take charge of the Portugal national side.He has, however, offered no indication as to when he will be open himself up to such a role, with it merely stated that he will walk away from the day-to-day life of club coaching one he feels “tired”.

Mourinho does not consider himself to a fading force at present, with his future plans hinting at a lengthy stay with United after already committing to a contract extension through to 2020.

Quizzed by GQ Magazine on whether he is any closer to feeling tired, the Red Devils boss said: “No. No! I am not close at all.“I think being the coach of a club is my job. Because I need to play matches every week and train every day. “I would say I am even further away from being tired now than I was a few years ago.”

While focused on club matters for the foreseeable future, Mourinho is among those looking forward to international competition at World Cup 2018.He is expecting the global elite to shine on a Russian stage this summer, with there a number of iconic figures ready to lead their respective nations in the pursuit of global glory.

Mourinho said: “Players like [Lionel] Messi and [Cristiano] Ronaldo are so good that they can make their teams better than they are on paper. So I think Argentina and Portugal can do well.

“Brazil, because of their manager Tite, can play well tactically and defensively, but they still have that natural Brazilian talent. They will be a team to watch.“And of the European teams, Spain looked really strong in qualifying. They have a mix of good experienced players and quality players.“But you never know… there can always be a surprise at the World Cup.”

Portugal were the surprise package at Euro 2016 as they swept to a first major title and Mourinho believes his fellow countrymen can be in the mix again two years on.

He added: “Well, Portugal did get to the semi-final again in 2006 and we also won the European Championship in 2016, so that means we are among the best teams in the world.“Portugal is the kind of country where new talent is always coming through and in the current national team I think we have even better players than in the squad two years ago. So Portugal can do anything.“Can we be world champions? I don’t dare say that, but on our day we can beat anyone.”

 

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Man City see €50m Jorginho offer rejected by Napoli


Manchester City have seen a €50 million (£44m/$58m) bid for Jorginho knocked back, with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis confirming that the Premier League champions have been rebuffed.

Goal revealed back in April that Pep Guardiola had made the Brazil-born Italy international a top target for the summer transfer window.City are not the only club interested, though, with the 26-year-old’s agent revealing that “several clubs” form part of a scramble to secure a much sought-after signature.

Napoli are aware that they have a prized asset on their hands and are not about to sanction a sale without a fight, with one big-money approach from the Etihad Stadium having been rejected.

De Laurentiis told Corriere dello Sport: “Jorginho? I have refused an offer from Man City worth €45m plus €5m in bonuses.”While eager to retain the services of a key figure, Napoli have moved to tie up a deal for one possible addition.Simone Verdi is set to arrive from Serie A rivals Bologna, with De Laurentiis revealing that sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has put a deal in place.

He has also refused to rule out a summer exit for long-serving captain Marek Hamsik, with the Slovakian midfielder being heavily linked with a move to China.With so many comings and goings being mooted, De Laurentiis acknowledges that there is likely to be plenty of movement before the next deadline passes.

New boss Carlo Ancelotti is being freed to shape a squad inherited from Maurizio Sarri as he sees fit, with signings expected across the board.De Laurentiis said: "From 10 to July 31, Carlo will be able to evaluate the entire squad and make decisions, on August 4 we will be in Dublin with Liverpool and we will see his first Napoli.

"He wants to keep 80 per cent of the current squad, he considers it excellent. Our goals are a goalkeeper, a full-back, a midfielder and a winger."

 

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Real Madrid won't rush managerial appointment as Blancos target Pochettino


Zinedine Zidane’s sudden departure at Real Madrid caught everybody by surprise, but the Blancos will not be rushing into appointing a successor as they seek to identify the right candidate for the job.

Those at Santiago Bernabeu had been hoping to enjoy a relatively quiet summer, with attention shifting towards World Cup matters in the wake of a historic third successive Champions League triumph.

Zidane’s decision to step down following their 3-1 victory over Liverpool has scuppered plans for a period of stability and continuity, with the Frenchman stunning players, supporters and officials with his resignation.

Madrid were not prepared for this, with no Plan B drawn up which would have a ready-made alternative already in their sights.

It did not take long, however, for feelers to be put out to those considered to be leading candidates for the role, with Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino and Germany manager Joachim Low quickly identified as favoured options.

The Spurs boss faced questions regarding a possible return to Spain at an event to promote his new book on Friday, with the former Espanyol coach offering cryptic responses as he countered a commitment to a newly-signed contract in England by leaving the door open to future challenges elsewhere .

Freeing the Argentine from a deal through to 2023 will not be easy, while Low has also recently committed to fresh terms in his current post and has sought to distance himself from claims that he could be tempted to break that agreement within a matter of weeks.Madrid, therefore, have plenty to ponder.They have been admirers of Pochettino for some time, with his coaching career having been closely followed since his days in Catalunya at Espanyol.

Since then he has faced the Blancos in continental competition, with his credentials for a high-profile post in the Spanish capital enhanced by the claiming of four points from the Blancos during the 2017-18 Champions League – a competition Zidane’s side would go on to win.

While he remains a top target at this stage, Madrid need to get their next appointment right.A club which has enjoyed domestic and European success aplenty in recent years is aware that it has reached the end of one important cycle and the start of another.

This may prove to be a summer of change on and off the field, while anyone stepping into Zidane’s sizeable shoes will not boast the same level of respect and authority around the dressing room that a man already part of the coaching team in Madrid had when inheriting the top job.Now is a time for considered contemplation at the Bernabeu.Things are tense, of course, but there is also a sense of calm around the club as they endeavour to ensure that the smoothest of transitions is made from one era to the next.

 

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Spain 1 Switzerland 1: De Gea makes rare error in pre-World Cup friendly

David de Gea's incongruous mistake handed a dogged Switzerland side a 1-1 draw away to Spain in a pre-World Cup friendly.

The Manchester United goalkeeper is regarded as being among the world's finest but he spilled a shot from reported Arsenal target Stephan Lichtsteiner, presenting Ricardo Rodriguez with a tap-in.Spain were producing a commanding display to assert their status as one of the pre-tournament favourites prior to De Gea's out-of-character error in Villarreal.




Vladimir Petkovic's determined Swiss outfit had kept four consecutive clean sheets but they were undone by a goal out of the top drawer from Alvaro Odriozola in the 29th minute.David Silva's cross found the right-back, who advanced on to the high ball and cushioned a strike on the volley that swerved out of the reach of Switzerland goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

But when opposite number De Gea fumbled a weak shot from Swiss captain Lichtsteiner in the 62nd minute, fellow full-back Rodriguez could hardly miss as he arrived at the far post.Both sides have one more fixture to play before opening their World Cup campaigns, Switzerland facing Japan on Friday and Spain taking on Tunisia the following day.


Sommer had to make a fine save low to his right to keep out a deflected Thiago Alcantara drive in the second minute as Spain started in similar form to that shown in their 6-1 demolition of Argentina in March.Diego Costa's clever headed pass then provided Silva with a clear sight of goal, but the Manchester City midfielder sent a drive wide of the far post.

With Dani Carvajal battling to recover from injury, Odriozola was handed his third Spain cap and the 22-year-old opened his international account with a superb strike.When Silva hooked a looping ball towards Odriozola on the edge of the box, the right-back sweetly struck a low volley that left Sommer with no chance.

Costa should have doubled Spain's lead in the 40th minute, misjudging a diving header from Koke's left-wing corner, Iniesta then jinking into the box but being denied by the busy Sommer.

Spain had an injury scare early in the second half as Iniesta took a bang to the knee in a challenge with substitute Breel Embolo, but the former Barcelona captain was able to play on before departing to a standing ovation at Estadio de la Ceramica.Jordi Alba lashed a volley wide as Spain sought the cushion their dominant performance deserved, but out of nowhere Switzerland - two places above Spain in FIFA's world rankings - grabbed an equaliser.



Lichtsteiner's shot had little power but De Gea appeared to lose the ball in its flight, allowing it to slip out of his grasp, presenting Rodriguez with a simple close-range finish.Nacho Fernandez clipped the outside of the post with a late opportunity to restore the Spain lead, while Switzerland rarely looked likely to repeat their 1-0 win at the 2010 World Cup in the last meeting between these sides.

Julen Lopetegui remains unbeaten in his two-year spell in charge of Spain and he will be able to call upon returning Real Madrid stars in Russia, but De Gea's unexpected error gave the coach something to ponder.

 

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Don't worry De Gea.Everyone makes mistakes

VAMOS ESPANA!​

 

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'I've no doubts' - Lopetegui backs De Gea after Switzerland blunder


David de Gea retains the trust of Julen Lopetegui despite making an uncharacteristic error that cost Spain victory in a World Cup warm-up against Switzerland.After Alvaro Odriozola scored his maiden international goal with a sensational volley, Spain looked on track to win their first friendly ahead of Russia 2018.

But a shot from Swiss captain Stephan Lichtsteiner was spilled by De Gea, allowing Ricardo Rodriguez to tap in from close-range.Spain remain unbeaten in the 19 matches since Lopetegui was appointed following Euro 2016 and the coach will make no rash decisions in the wake of De Gea's error.

"David knows that I know he's going to take us forward in many games and I have no doubt [about him]," Lopetegui told reporters after a 1-1 draw in Villarreal.Spain have one more warm-up game scheduled before opening their World Cup campaign with a derby clash against Iberian neighbours Portugal.

But with next Saturday's match against Tunisia taking place in Krasnodar, this weekend's game at Estadio de la Ceramica may have been the last time former Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta represented Spain on home soil.

Iniesta was substituted early in the second half to a standing ovation after shaking off a bang to the knee sustained in a challenge with Switzerland striker Breel Embolo.

"The ovation has been won by the performance of his entire career," Lopetegui added of Vissel Kobe's new signing."But the most important thing is the match he has made, showing his absolute validity.

"We are in the preparation phase and we were thinking of replacing him. What matters most to us is what he is still about to give us."I liked that we were able to generate a lot of chances against a complicated team like Switzerland.

"We have maintained a very high level, we had to adjust some things at the break, but in general we have many positive things, no injuries and we continue preparing to arrive in perfect condition to the World Cup."

 

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Pogba the showman wants to be next Zidane or Platini - Ferdinand


Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is a “showman” looking for a World Cup stage to put him on a par with Zinedine Zidane and Michel Platini, says Rio Ferdinand.

The France international has not always delivered on his potential, both for club and country, but he will have a global window in which to showcase his talent this summer.Much is expected of Pogba in Russia, with Didier Deschamps having already demanded more from the 25-year-old and Bleus skipper Hugo Lloris calling on him to become a “leader”.

Ferdinand believes a man he once played alongside at Old Trafford is capable of delivering, with there a desire on the part of an £89 million performer to prove himself as a modern-day icon.The ex-United and England defender said in the Mirror: “Paul is desperate to ­announce ­himself on the world stage.

“Paul is someone who wants to be known as a great player. When you look at the history in the French national team – with Michel Platini and Zinedine Zidane – he wants to be ­remembered as a player like that.“But Pogba has to play well. And he has to win – and that’s not easy. There will be ­pressure because expectations are huge on France.

“Pogba and [Antoine] Griezmann will be carrying the hopes of their ­nation on their shoulders – and I would like to see Paul do it.“He’s a showman and someone who wants to be the ­centrepiece of what comes out of that team. Now he has the opportunity to do that.”

Ferdinand added on a player who saw his antics on and off the field thrust under the microscope throughout a testing 2017-18 campaign: “There is no ­doubting Paul’s ­talent. Anyone who sees him play would be a fool not to see he has immense talent in all areas.“But it’s about putting that ­together week in, week out – and, in a tournament, it’s very difficult. Sometimes you have to be angry – ­certain players need that fire in them.

“Paul is one of those guys. If he is angry and hyped for a game and lets that filter out when on the pitch, you see a better Paul Pogba.”Pogba was whistled by his own supporters on his last outing, as France beat Italy 3-1 in a pre-World Cup friendly.

He may get another opportunity to silence his critics and rediscover his spark against the U.S. national team on Saturday as Les Bleus take in their last fixture before heading to Russia.

 

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Figo: I hope Ronaldo stays at Real Madrid


Former Real Madrid star Luis Figo is hopeful Cristiano Ronaldo will remain at the European champions.Ronaldo's future has dominated headlines since the 33-year-old hinted at a shock exit following Madrid's third successive Champions League triumph last month.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner – who later apologised for his post-final comments before appearing to offer hope over his future during Madrid's trophy parade – has been linked with a return to former club Manchester United and French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Asked about Ronaldo after Madrid's legends team beat Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabeu, Figo said: "I hope that Cristiano stays like all Real Madrid fans."One day he will stop playing and Real Madrid will continue to be one of the best clubs in the world."

Ronaldo is gearing up for the World Cup with Portugal, who will face Spain (June 15), Morocco (June 20) and Iran (June 25) in Group B.

 

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Everton's door open for Rooney stay, says Silva


New Everton manager Marco Silva says Wayne Rooney will have the final say on whether or not he joins DC United.

The former England captain has held talks with the MLS club over the prospect of joining on a two-year deal worth a reported $5 million (£3.8m) annually.Silva, who was named the club's new boss on May 31, plans to speak with Rooney in the coming days but insists his future will be left up to him.



He added that the 32-year-old will be welcome to return to the club at any time if he decides to leave."It's something that had started when I arrived," he told a news conference. "We will talk with him. We need to understand everything.

"The door is open anytime for him to return. We'll talk and see what is happening. It's Wayne's decision." Sporting director Marcel Brands also encouraged Rooney to consider coming back to Everton when he ends his career in the United States, if he chooses to accept DC's offer.

"There is a possibility he will leave," he said. "He talks with DC, that is not a secret. We will also talk with him."If he wants to make the move, then I can only say I hope he returns to Everton when he finishes in the MLS because he's a legend of the club. I always did that at PSV. I will continue to do it here, to use the legends at the club."Club-mate Theo Walcott has previously expressed his hope for Rooney to stay at the club.

 

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West Ham boss Pellegrini 'robbed at gunpoint' during visit to Chile as police confirm shots fired


West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini has reportedly been robbed while back in his native Chile, with gunshots having been fired as the assailants fled the scene.The 64-year-old was out with family and friends in Santiago when his party were reportedly targeted by a gang.

He was on his way to a restaurant with former player and coach Ignacio Prieto and their respective partners when reports in Chile claim the group were set upon.

Local media in the South American nation claim that Pellegrini was approached by the criminals as he got out of his car, with La Cuarta revealing that a purse was snatched before authorities arrived on the scene.

Shots were also fired, with Chilean police force official Carlos Villarroel quoted as saying by La Cuerta: "A couple of Carabineros [Chilean police officers], who were patrolling the sector, heard the cries of the victims, so went to their aid.
"When confronted by police personnel, the criminals fired several shots. No injuries were recorded, however." A spokesman for West Ham, speaking to the BBC, added on the matter: "We are relieved to hear that Manuel and his wife were both unharmed."

Pellegrini has been quick to praise local enforcement in Santiago for acting as quickly as they did, with their “quick and courteous” response acknowledged.

Pellegrini had been looking to make the most of his summer break before returning to management in the Premier League for 2018-19.
The man who guided Manchester City to title glory in 2014 has been handed a three-year contract at West Ham after leaving Chinese Super League side Hebei China Fortune.

Pellegrini has been charged with the task of overseeing a reversal in fortune for the Hammers, with another relegation battle having engulfed the club last season.
David Moyes was able to steer them to safety, but he departed the London Stadium at the end of a difficult campaign.

 

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Morata to make Juventus return? 'Let's see', says Chelsea striker


Alvaro Morata has done little to curb the speculation suggesting he could be heading out of Chelsea, with the Spaniard saying “let’s see” when quizzed on talk of a possible return to Juventus.

The 25-year-old striker has spent just one season at Stamford Bridge, with the Blues breaking their transfer record to acquire him from Real Madrid in the summer of 2017.A switch to England was intended to provide Morata with the regular minutes he needs in order to show his true colours and prove himself as an elite frontman.

He was, however, to endure a testing 2017-18 campaign which ended in him slipping behind Olivier Giroud in the pecking order at Chelsea and being left out of Spain’s squad for World Cup 2018.

Speculation has built steadily around his struggles in west London, with a second stint at Serie A champions Juventus being mooted for a man who spent two years in Turin between 2014 and 2016.

Morata is currently in Italy during his summer break and refused to rule anything out when quizzed on the mounting transfer talk, with Tuttosport reporting him as saying: “Juve? Let's see; for now I do not know anything about my future.” The Blues forward, who has previously been pictured in Milan with Juve’s sporting director Fabio Paratici, claims to be back in Italy “to attend a birthday party”.

He is, however, aware of the rumours surrounding his future, with La Liga giants Atletico Madrid considered to be another possible landing spot for him this summer.Morata added: “Chelsea or Atletico? At this moment I am thinking only of holidays.”

 

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Salah ready to play through pain for Egypt at World Cup - Lovren


Mohamed Salah is ready to play through the pain barrier to lead Egypt’s World Cup charge, according to Liverpool team-mate Dejan Lovren.

The Reds star has been battling back from the shoulder injury suffered during the Champions League final with Real Madrid nine days ago, desperate to play his part in this summer’s tournament in Russia.Salah seemed to suggest on Sunday that he would be fit, posting a picture on social media with the caption "good feelings", and it was confirmed on Monday that he was part of Egypt's 23-man squad for the tournament.

Lovren is one of the 25-year-old’s closest friends at Liverpool, and speaking at Anfield after Croatia’s international friendly with Brazil, he too suggested that Salah would be fit and firing in Russia.

“I’m positive,” Lovren smiled. “I have some news but I will keep it to myself!
“I haven’t spoken to him a lot, but hopefully he can be fit for the World Cup because I know it means a lot to him to play for his national team.”

Egypt get their campaign underway in 11 days’ time, taking on Uruguay in Ekaterinburg. And while it appears doubtful that Salah will be able to start that game, it is hoped that the 44-goal star will be back in time for their second Group A game, against hosts Russia in St Petersburg on June 19.

“Mo is the type of player who wants to play even when he feels pain,” Lovren said. “He showed that this season. There were a couple of games where people didn’t know [he was in pain] but in the end he scored a hat-trick or whatever!
“Of course it was disappointing for him that he couldn’t finish the game in Kiev, but he’s positive and hopefully he can move on and play for the national team.”As for Croatia, they face a testing Group D campaign having been paired with Argentina, Nigeria and Euro 2016 sensations Iceland.

Zlatko Dalic’s side were beaten 2-0 by tournament favourites Brazil on Sunday, and face Senegal in their final warm-up game on Friday. With the likes of Ivan Perisic, Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic and Mario Mandzukic in their ranks, Lovren believes they are capable of springing a surprise or two.

“We love to be the dark horses, and I believe can do something big,” he said. “To be honest, we need to catch our form a little bit better. We have still 13 days to do that, and I believe we can pass the group.

“Of course [we can surprise people] like we surprised a few people with Liverpool in the Champions League. With our national team, we have real quality players; if you look at the team we have in the middle and up front, it’s quite scary to be honest.

“But it’s about the team, and like I said in the first half [against Brazil] we looked a good defensive team. I think we can improve in the next week or so.”Lovren also gave his reaction to Liverpool’s new £40 million signing, midfielder Fabinho.

“I was reading something about this,” he said. “Of course, I am always happy that we can welcome quality players into our squad. To improve every season, every year, is the aim, and hopefully he can help us do it.”

 

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'Messi has no ego' - Suarez hails 'beautiful relationship' with incredible Barcelona team-mate


Luis Suarez has hailed the ability of “incredible” Lionel Messi to remain grounded at Barcelona despite his record-breaking achievements.

The mercurial Argentine has long been hailed as one of the finest performers in this or any other era, with his remarkable accomplishments raising the bar of individual excellence.He has complemented countless collective honours with five Ballons d’Or and a stunning haul of 552 goals for Barca.

Messi has, however, been a team player throughout his time at Camp Nou, with the 30-year-old proving to be a selfless colleague to Suarez and the rest of a star-studded cast in Catalunya.

“Leo is my colleague and friend, a fine person and a great family man,” Suarez told Kicker on a man he has spent four memorable seasons alongside.“I do not see in him the Messi that the rest of the world sees. “But there are moments on the field with me, too, when I realise what a great footballer he is and what incredible things he does.”

Uruguay international Suarez added on a fellow South American who has helped him to star at Barca with his actions on and off the field: “We are not only footballers, we are also fathers, we have similar habits and are almost at the same age.

“We enjoy having fun, drinking mate, sometimes eating together. This has resulted in a beautiful relationship. And over time a big trust as well.“In football it is difficult to find a real friend, especially if he plays in the same position. There are also many egos in a team. That was never the case in our team.That has been proven over the years.“He also helped me to win the Golden Boot.There is no jealousy between us, just pride at sharing things with a friend.”

There was a time when Suarez and Messi formed part of a fearsome trio of attacking talent at Barcelona, with Brazilian star Neymar joining them in the destructive ‘MSN’ unit.He was, however, to leave for Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2017 after deciding to become a talisman in his own right.

Suarez claims that Neymar had doubts about whether he was making the right choice before heading to France, but the 26-year-old is being backed to fulfil his undoubted potential with the Ligue 1 champions.

“We talked to him, Messi and I, because Ney asked us for our opinion,” said Suarez.“He had doubts. He was here for a long time and he had everything he needed here.“I don’t think he went for the money: He has other goals he wants to achieve with Paris.”

 

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Fred arrives for Man Utd medical ahead of £52.5 million transfer


Brazilian midfielder Fred has arrived at Manchester United’s training ground for a medical ahead of his pending transfer to the club.The Shakhtar Donetsk star is expected to complete a deal worth around £52.5 million ($70m) in the next 24 hours, with his current club’s president Rinat Akhmetov having insisted it would take a club-record sale for him to leave the Ukrainian outfit .

And Fred was spotted arriving at United’s training facility early on Monday morning ahead of his medical, after which he is likely to pen a four-year deal with a
club option for a fifth term.The 25-year-old came on as a substitute in Brazil’s win over Croatia in a friendly at Liverpool's home, Anfield, on Sunday and later caused a stir by tweeting his congratulations to his team-mates with a location tag of Manchester.

His appearance on Sunday was his eighth for the Selecao, and he has been included in head coach Tite's final 23-man squad for this summer's World Cup finals.

The midfielder has spent the last five years with Shakhtar having begun his senior career with Internacional in his homeland. He had previously been a target of Manchester City, but Pep Guardiola's side withdrew their interest in January.Fred looks set to become United’s first signing of the summer, with Jose Mourinho also primed to snap up Porto full-back Diogo Dalot in the coming days.Mourinho sparked rumours of a move for Fred as far back as April when insisting that "a team without a Brazilian is not a team" .