can't remember
Monday, November 08, 2010
Monday, August 09, 2010
Manchester United Readying Bid For €16m-Rated Werder Bremen Star Mesut Oezil
Manchester United are ready to make a concrete offer for Werder Bremen playmaker Mesut Oezil, provided manager Sir Alex Ferguson can convince the club's hierarchy that the Germany star represents good value, according to a report from The Guardian.
Oezil could be available for £13.5 million, as he is in the last year of his contract in Bremen and could leave for nothing next summer.
The German outfit are apparently considering retaining the player until after their Champions League qualifier with Sampdoria, because of the huge sums of money on offer should they reach the group stages of the competition.
Barcelona and Real Madrid have apparently made contact with Werder, with the player understood to be not to impressed with what the Spanish clubs had to offer.
Chelsea are also rumoured to be hovering with intent, and may use their financial muscle to attempt to snare the player.
Ferguson has been highly ambiguous in his replies when asked about the player and, somewhat unusually, watched Oezil in action himself in a pre-season friendly at Fulham at the weekend.
Oezil could be available for £13.5 million, as he is in the last year of his contract in Bremen and could leave for nothing next summer.
The German outfit are apparently considering retaining the player until after their Champions League qualifier with Sampdoria, because of the huge sums of money on offer should they reach the group stages of the competition.
Barcelona and Real Madrid have apparently made contact with Werder, with the player understood to be not to impressed with what the Spanish clubs had to offer.
Chelsea are also rumoured to be hovering with intent, and may use their financial muscle to attempt to snare the player.
Ferguson has been highly ambiguous in his replies when asked about the player and, somewhat unusually, watched Oezil in action himself in a pre-season friendly at Fulham at the weekend.
Monday, August 02, 2010
Manchester United's Anderson Rescued From Car Crash
Manchester United’s Brazilian midfielder Anderson has been rescued from the burning wreckage of a car following a crash in Portugal.
The 22-year-old reportedly spent several hours in hospital on Saturday morning after the accident just outside Braga, but is believed to have sustained only minor injuries.
According to reports, Anderson had spent the night at Sardinha Biba nightclub before the car left the road and flew into a field at around 7am local time.
Two companions who were also in the car at the time were admitted to St. Mark’s hospital along with the Brazilian, with all three being released before lunchtime after treatment for concussion, whiplash, and shock.
Portugese press have quoted the Gestifute agency, which represents Anderson, as saying the midfielder had suffered an “almighty scare” but would be returning to Manchester to continue his recovery.
The former Porto man is currently out of action after suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury in February and is expected to return to first-team action in late September.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Paul Scholes Regrets His Decision To Snub England
Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has expressed his regret at not accepting England coach Fabio Capello's offer to feature in the 2010 World Cup finals for the Three Lions.
The 35-year-old announced his retirement from international football in 2004 and although there have been talks on certain occasions of the veteran midfielder coming out of retirement, Scholes has refused to play for England.
However, the Salford-born player has now admitted that he shouldn't have turned down Capello's proposal to play in South Africa. Although Scholes says that he might not have made much of a difference, he concedes that he made the wrong decision.
"A couple of weeks into it, I thought I maybe should have gone," Scholes said, according to the AFP. "I am not saying I would have made a difference. I am saying I might have made the wrong decision."
Scholes made 66 international appearances for England and scored 14 goals before calling it a day weeks after the European Championships in 2004.
The 35-year-old announced his retirement from international football in 2004 and although there have been talks on certain occasions of the veteran midfielder coming out of retirement, Scholes has refused to play for England.
However, the Salford-born player has now admitted that he shouldn't have turned down Capello's proposal to play in South Africa. Although Scholes says that he might not have made much of a difference, he concedes that he made the wrong decision.
"A couple of weeks into it, I thought I maybe should have gone," Scholes said, according to the AFP. "I am not saying I would have made a difference. I am saying I might have made the wrong decision."
Scholes made 66 international appearances for England and scored 14 goals before calling it a day weeks after the European Championships in 2004.
Manchester United Striker Javier Hernandez Is Motivated To Succeed In The Premier League
Manchester United attacker Javier Hernandez believes that he can be different than his Mexican predecessors and become a Premier League success.
The Mexico international could make his first appearance with his new club since making the move from Chivas Guadalajara in the summer, as United will take on the MLS All-Stars at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Texas on Thursday.
The 22-year-old insists that he can make a bigger impact in England than countrymen Giovani Dos Santos and Carlos Vela did while with Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal respectively.
"I have spoken to them and they are definitely happy for me and they know that this is the most powerful league in the world,” Hernandez told Press Association Sport.
"They tell me to take advantage of the situation and I should thank God for the opportunity.
"I always try to see pressure in a different way - more like motivation. There are millions of people in the world who would do anything to be in my position and have this opportunity.
"It's an honour because I want to achieve big things. It's a very nice challenge and hopefully I will be able to contribute.
"I will always try to enjoy it because sometimes we focus so much on the achievements and our dreams, and maybe we forget to enjoy it."
United acquired Hernandez after a season in which he scored 21 goals in 21 league appearances for Chivas, and continued his successful season with a good World Cup, as the young hitman scored twice in South Africa.
Hernandez is in awe of playing on the same side as all of the stars that United have on their squad, and considers competing with his new team-mates as a dream come true.
"These are people I would watch on the television, that I would even play with them on PlayStation.
"I dreamed of one day being able to play with all of them and I'm going to try to learn from them the most I can.
"Besides wanting to do the best job I can, grow and learn plenty, I also want to add my little grain of sand because this is a team sport. I want to win a title. I want us to be a great team."
United conclude their North American tour on Friday when they line up against Chivas, a match in which Hernandez will play a half for his new club and a half for his old club.
The Mexico international could make his first appearance with his new club since making the move from Chivas Guadalajara in the summer, as United will take on the MLS All-Stars at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Texas on Thursday.
The 22-year-old insists that he can make a bigger impact in England than countrymen Giovani Dos Santos and Carlos Vela did while with Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal respectively.
"I have spoken to them and they are definitely happy for me and they know that this is the most powerful league in the world,” Hernandez told Press Association Sport.
"They tell me to take advantage of the situation and I should thank God for the opportunity.
"I always try to see pressure in a different way - more like motivation. There are millions of people in the world who would do anything to be in my position and have this opportunity.
"It's an honour because I want to achieve big things. It's a very nice challenge and hopefully I will be able to contribute.
"I will always try to enjoy it because sometimes we focus so much on the achievements and our dreams, and maybe we forget to enjoy it."
United acquired Hernandez after a season in which he scored 21 goals in 21 league appearances for Chivas, and continued his successful season with a good World Cup, as the young hitman scored twice in South Africa.
Hernandez is in awe of playing on the same side as all of the stars that United have on their squad, and considers competing with his new team-mates as a dream come true.
"These are people I would watch on the television, that I would even play with them on PlayStation.
"I dreamed of one day being able to play with all of them and I'm going to try to learn from them the most I can.
"Besides wanting to do the best job I can, grow and learn plenty, I also want to add my little grain of sand because this is a team sport. I want to win a title. I want us to be a great team."
United conclude their North American tour on Friday when they line up against Chivas, a match in which Hernandez will play a half for his new club and a half for his old club.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Who Will Eventually Replace Sir Alex Ferguson At Manchester United?
One day in the future there will be somebody other than Sir Alex Ferguson commanding Manchester United from the Old Trafford dug-out. Unthinkable as it sounds for many fans, who have grown up with only Fergie and Red Devils success, the 68-year-old can't go on forever.
Rest assured Man Utd fans, as Sir Alex shows no signs of slowing down and has said he will continue as long as his health allows. He was originally due to step down in 2002, with Sven-Goran Eriksson lined up to replace him, only to do a u-turn after being convinced by his wife Cathy to keep working.
Who will that man be? Bookies have been taking bets on this market for almost a decade as we rank the top 10 latest contenders to step into the Old Trafford hot seat.
Jose Mourinho
Odds: 3.75
Real Madrid's new coach has always maintained his desire to one day return to his favourite league. The 'Special One' enjoys a good relationship with Ferguson and has the trophy-winning nous to back it up. While many would wilt at the prospect of filling Sir Alex's shoes, Mourinho would relish the task. Questions may be asked of his football style but you can't deny the man is a winner. Has a get-out clause in his contract with Los Blancos so he can walk for free at the end of each season during his four-year contract.
Why it will happen: Mourinho is the favourite and delivers success wherever he goes. Maintaining Ferguson's incredible record of delivering trophies will be United's main priority when naming his successor. At least it should be.
Why it won't happen: Sir Bobby Charlton will have a huge say along with Fergie in naming the new manager and isn't a fan of Mourinho's football style. The Portuguese tactician is unlikely to be a long term bet either as he tends to deliver success and then make tracks.
David Moyes
Odds: 6.50
Cut from the same cloth as Sir Alex, he has done a stellar job at Everton in turning them from relegation candidates to challengers for a Champions League spot each season. Moyes nearly became Fergie's assistant over a decade ago before the club opted for Steve McClaren. Enjoys a great reputation for his work in Merseyside and is understood to be Ferguson's preferred choice to succeed him.
Why it will happen: If Fergie wants his compatriot to get the gig, as has been suggested, United will surely listen to the great man.
Why it won't happen: Lack of true front line managerial experience and has a patchy record in Europe. How would he feel about linking up with Wayne Rooney again, who he took to court for libel?
Martin O'Neill
Odds: 7.50
Has been frequently linked with United over the years after working wonders at Wycombe, Leicester and Celtic before moving to Aston Villa. Tends to improve every team he has gone to, which is simply not going to happen at Manchester United after more than 20 years with the same manager. A strong man-manager who usually gets the best out of his players, although his star has waned slightly at Villa Park.
Why it will happen: O'Neill is a no-nonsense individual who would jump at the chance to manage the Red Devils. Remains upset at being passed over for the England job in favour of Steve McClaren and has a point to prove at the highest level.
Why it won't happen: Villa fans will tell you they are unhappy at O'Neill's reluctance to spend Randy Lerner's money on some big names. Has yet to break the Villans into the elusive top four after threatening to do so in recent seasons.
Steve Bruce
Odds: 17.0
Many of Ferguson's first great side of 1993-94 have gone into management with varying degrees of success. Changed clubs quicker than Tiger Woods early in his managerial career before carving a solid reputation at Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic and now Sunderland. Wore the captain's armband during United's early period of dominance and famously scored two late goals against Sheffield Wednesday in 1992-93, helping the Red Devils to their first league title in 26 years.
Why it will happen: Like O'Neill he has generally done a better job at his new club than the man he's replaced. A manager on the rise but the move back to Old Trafford would be a massive step.
Why it won't happen: A nice story but unlikely to come true. Bruce is a long shot and he knows it so he'll need to create some miracles with Sunderland to replace his mentor Sir Alex.
Laurent Blanc
Odds: 17.0
Adored by Ferguson, who chased Le President for years during his career, the Frenchman wound down his career in the Premier League, where he was christened Larry White by the United supporters. Did a superb job with Bordeaux in winning the double in 2008-09 playing attractive football before departing to take the French national job after a disappointing last season with Les Girondins as they could only finish sixth in Ligue 1 and were eliminated by Lyon in the Champions League. Has a major job on his hands with Les Bleus.
Why it will happen: Ferguson remains a fan and Blanc certainly plays the type of football Old Trafford expects.
Why it won't happen: Managing his country is the ultimate honour for the patriotic Blanc so it's hard to see him jumping ship and crossing the channel, even for Manchester United.
Eric Cantona
Odds: 17.0
Always crops up in discussions and would definitely be a hit with the fans despite his lack of managerial experience. Cantona has hinted he would be interested in the job if it came along and would definitely guarantee entertainment on and off the pitch.
Why it will happen: Dreams sometimes come true just like seagulls following trawlers...
Why it won't happen: Likely to remain a tabloid pipe dream. Cantona has zero managerial experience, unless you count beach football, and would be risking his reputation with the United fans if he wasn't a success.
Fabio Capello
Odds: 19.0
Don Fabio has won titles wherever he has gone and was considered for the post when Ferguson was originally meant to step aside in 2002. England's debacle in the World Cup proved that Capello's strength is in club football and the Italian understands the pressure of managing big teams in Europe.
Why it will happen: Delivers trophies if not necessarily style and is firmly ensconced in England should Old Trafford come calling.
Why it won't happen: Too old. At 64 Capello is just four years younger than Ferguson and has said England will be his last job.
Carlos Queiroz
Odds: 21.0
Worked as Ferguson's assistant in two previous stints and still has the Scotsman's ear. Rated as one of the best coaches in Europe the jury remains out on his abilities as a number one after failing to impress with Real Madrid in his solitary season in charge. Currently in charge of Portugal and continues to be linked with vacancies in the Premier League.
Why it will happen: Familiar with the club and knows how it operates. Ferguson rates Queiroz highly but whether he thinks he's up to the job of replacing him is another story.
Why it won't happen: A poor campaign with Real Madrid at 2003-04 when Los Blancos looked on course for the treble only to end up potless. Queiroz blames the board for not backing him who unsurprisingly say it was his fault. That won't cut it at Manchester United.
Pep Guardiola
Odds: 21.0
Won everything in sight with Barcelona in an astonishing debut season in 2008-09 and followed up with another league title last time out. Guardiola's delay to sign a new contract until recently with the Blaugrana alerted United who are understood to be keen on the young manager who has yet to turn 40. His football philosophy is in tune with the Manchester United DNA as they discovered to their peril in the 2009 Champions League final.
Why it will happen: Only under contract at the Camp Nou until 2011 when Sir Alex may just may be prepared to walk away into the sunset. Speaks good English and United fans would hope he'd bring Leo Messi with him!
Why it won't happen: Why on earth would Barcelona let a young Catalan manager who has won everything go?
Guus Hiddink
Odds: 26.0
Dutch master remains one of Europe's most sought after coaches despite inking a deal to coach Turkey for the next two years. Linked with any half decent job which crops up Hiddink did a good job when he was parachuted in to rescue Chelsea's season in 2008/09. At 63 his stock is high and may fancy one last crack at club management if he's given the nod.
Why it will happen: Proved at Chelsea he's a safe pair of hands. Experienced and would command the respect of his players. A decent outside bet.
Why it won't happen: Time isn't on his side as he's just five years younger than Ferguson. It's likely United will opt for a younger candidate.
Selected Others
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 26.0
Gary Neville 26.0
Roy Keane 34.0
Mark Hughes 34.0
Ryan Giggs 34.0
Martin Jol 34.0
Steve McClaren 34.0
Gordon Strachan 41.0
Roy Hodgson 41.0
Louis Van Gaal 67.0
Arsene Wenger 67.0
Marcello Lippi 81.0
Harry Redknapp 81.0
Sven Goran Eriksson 101.0
Luis Felipe Scolari 151.0
Rest assured Man Utd fans, as Sir Alex shows no signs of slowing down and has said he will continue as long as his health allows. He was originally due to step down in 2002, with Sven-Goran Eriksson lined up to replace him, only to do a u-turn after being convinced by his wife Cathy to keep working.
Who will that man be? Bookies have been taking bets on this market for almost a decade as we rank the top 10 latest contenders to step into the Old Trafford hot seat.
Jose Mourinho
Odds: 3.75
Real Madrid's new coach has always maintained his desire to one day return to his favourite league. The 'Special One' enjoys a good relationship with Ferguson and has the trophy-winning nous to back it up. While many would wilt at the prospect of filling Sir Alex's shoes, Mourinho would relish the task. Questions may be asked of his football style but you can't deny the man is a winner. Has a get-out clause in his contract with Los Blancos so he can walk for free at the end of each season during his four-year contract.
Why it will happen: Mourinho is the favourite and delivers success wherever he goes. Maintaining Ferguson's incredible record of delivering trophies will be United's main priority when naming his successor. At least it should be.
Why it won't happen: Sir Bobby Charlton will have a huge say along with Fergie in naming the new manager and isn't a fan of Mourinho's football style. The Portuguese tactician is unlikely to be a long term bet either as he tends to deliver success and then make tracks.
David Moyes
Odds: 6.50
Cut from the same cloth as Sir Alex, he has done a stellar job at Everton in turning them from relegation candidates to challengers for a Champions League spot each season. Moyes nearly became Fergie's assistant over a decade ago before the club opted for Steve McClaren. Enjoys a great reputation for his work in Merseyside and is understood to be Ferguson's preferred choice to succeed him.
Why it will happen: If Fergie wants his compatriot to get the gig, as has been suggested, United will surely listen to the great man.
Why it won't happen: Lack of true front line managerial experience and has a patchy record in Europe. How would he feel about linking up with Wayne Rooney again, who he took to court for libel?
Martin O'Neill
Odds: 7.50
Has been frequently linked with United over the years after working wonders at Wycombe, Leicester and Celtic before moving to Aston Villa. Tends to improve every team he has gone to, which is simply not going to happen at Manchester United after more than 20 years with the same manager. A strong man-manager who usually gets the best out of his players, although his star has waned slightly at Villa Park.
Why it will happen: O'Neill is a no-nonsense individual who would jump at the chance to manage the Red Devils. Remains upset at being passed over for the England job in favour of Steve McClaren and has a point to prove at the highest level.
Why it won't happen: Villa fans will tell you they are unhappy at O'Neill's reluctance to spend Randy Lerner's money on some big names. Has yet to break the Villans into the elusive top four after threatening to do so in recent seasons.
Steve Bruce
Odds: 17.0
Many of Ferguson's first great side of 1993-94 have gone into management with varying degrees of success. Changed clubs quicker than Tiger Woods early in his managerial career before carving a solid reputation at Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic and now Sunderland. Wore the captain's armband during United's early period of dominance and famously scored two late goals against Sheffield Wednesday in 1992-93, helping the Red Devils to their first league title in 26 years.
Why it will happen: Like O'Neill he has generally done a better job at his new club than the man he's replaced. A manager on the rise but the move back to Old Trafford would be a massive step.
Why it won't happen: A nice story but unlikely to come true. Bruce is a long shot and he knows it so he'll need to create some miracles with Sunderland to replace his mentor Sir Alex.
Laurent Blanc
Odds: 17.0
Adored by Ferguson, who chased Le President for years during his career, the Frenchman wound down his career in the Premier League, where he was christened Larry White by the United supporters. Did a superb job with Bordeaux in winning the double in 2008-09 playing attractive football before departing to take the French national job after a disappointing last season with Les Girondins as they could only finish sixth in Ligue 1 and were eliminated by Lyon in the Champions League. Has a major job on his hands with Les Bleus.
Why it will happen: Ferguson remains a fan and Blanc certainly plays the type of football Old Trafford expects.
Why it won't happen: Managing his country is the ultimate honour for the patriotic Blanc so it's hard to see him jumping ship and crossing the channel, even for Manchester United.
Eric Cantona
Odds: 17.0
Always crops up in discussions and would definitely be a hit with the fans despite his lack of managerial experience. Cantona has hinted he would be interested in the job if it came along and would definitely guarantee entertainment on and off the pitch.
Why it will happen: Dreams sometimes come true just like seagulls following trawlers...
Why it won't happen: Likely to remain a tabloid pipe dream. Cantona has zero managerial experience, unless you count beach football, and would be risking his reputation with the United fans if he wasn't a success.
Fabio Capello
Odds: 19.0
Don Fabio has won titles wherever he has gone and was considered for the post when Ferguson was originally meant to step aside in 2002. England's debacle in the World Cup proved that Capello's strength is in club football and the Italian understands the pressure of managing big teams in Europe.
Why it will happen: Delivers trophies if not necessarily style and is firmly ensconced in England should Old Trafford come calling.
Why it won't happen: Too old. At 64 Capello is just four years younger than Ferguson and has said England will be his last job.
Carlos Queiroz
Odds: 21.0
Worked as Ferguson's assistant in two previous stints and still has the Scotsman's ear. Rated as one of the best coaches in Europe the jury remains out on his abilities as a number one after failing to impress with Real Madrid in his solitary season in charge. Currently in charge of Portugal and continues to be linked with vacancies in the Premier League.
Why it will happen: Familiar with the club and knows how it operates. Ferguson rates Queiroz highly but whether he thinks he's up to the job of replacing him is another story.
Why it won't happen: A poor campaign with Real Madrid at 2003-04 when Los Blancos looked on course for the treble only to end up potless. Queiroz blames the board for not backing him who unsurprisingly say it was his fault. That won't cut it at Manchester United.
Pep Guardiola
Odds: 21.0
Won everything in sight with Barcelona in an astonishing debut season in 2008-09 and followed up with another league title last time out. Guardiola's delay to sign a new contract until recently with the Blaugrana alerted United who are understood to be keen on the young manager who has yet to turn 40. His football philosophy is in tune with the Manchester United DNA as they discovered to their peril in the 2009 Champions League final.
Why it will happen: Only under contract at the Camp Nou until 2011 when Sir Alex may just may be prepared to walk away into the sunset. Speaks good English and United fans would hope he'd bring Leo Messi with him!
Why it won't happen: Why on earth would Barcelona let a young Catalan manager who has won everything go?
Guus Hiddink
Odds: 26.0
Dutch master remains one of Europe's most sought after coaches despite inking a deal to coach Turkey for the next two years. Linked with any half decent job which crops up Hiddink did a good job when he was parachuted in to rescue Chelsea's season in 2008/09. At 63 his stock is high and may fancy one last crack at club management if he's given the nod.
Why it will happen: Proved at Chelsea he's a safe pair of hands. Experienced and would command the respect of his players. A decent outside bet.
Why it won't happen: Time isn't on his side as he's just five years younger than Ferguson. It's likely United will opt for a younger candidate.
Selected Others
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 26.0
Gary Neville 26.0
Roy Keane 34.0
Mark Hughes 34.0
Ryan Giggs 34.0
Martin Jol 34.0
Steve McClaren 34.0
Gordon Strachan 41.0
Roy Hodgson 41.0
Louis Van Gaal 67.0
Arsene Wenger 67.0
Marcello Lippi 81.0
Harry Redknapp 81.0
Sven Goran Eriksson 101.0
Luis Felipe Scolari 151.0
Manchester United Retain Number One Spot In Forbes Rich List Despite £741m Debt
Manchester United have retained top spot in the Forbes rich list as the most valuable club in world sport, despite their mouting debt of £741 million.
The respected business publication has valued the Premier Legue runners up at £1.2 billion to beat off competition from second placed NFL franchise the Dallas Cowboys. Arsenal and Real Madrid were the only other football sides in the top 10, with the Gunners in sixth place with a valuation of £860 million and the Galacticos handed eighth place with a worth of £770 million.
The results lends credence to the resistant of the Glazers to sell the Old Trafford to the 'Red Knights' investor group throghout last season. This stance led to mass protests at the American family's ownership and the infamous 'Green and Gold' campaign.
The respected business publication has valued the Premier Legue runners up at £1.2 billion to beat off competition from second placed NFL franchise the Dallas Cowboys. Arsenal and Real Madrid were the only other football sides in the top 10, with the Gunners in sixth place with a valuation of £860 million and the Galacticos handed eighth place with a worth of £770 million.
The results lends credence to the resistant of the Glazers to sell the Old Trafford to the 'Red Knights' investor group throghout last season. This stance led to mass protests at the American family's ownership and the infamous 'Green and Gold' campaign.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Manchester United Head Premier League Pack Chasing Standard Liege Star Steven Defour
Manchester United are at the head of the Premier League pack chasing Belgium midfield star Steven Defour, according to his agent.
Defour, 22, won the Belgian Golden Shoe in 2008 as the best player in the Jupiter League but his progress was curtailed by a broken leg. This injury prompted United manager Sir Alex Ferguson to send a letter to the player.
Speaking to Sport.co.uk, agent Paul Stefani confirmed the Scot was still interested in the Standard Liege skipper and he was waiting for "an offer to be validated."
He said: “Sir Alex is always interested in Steven ever since he sent him the letter when he was struggling with injury. He is interested but we have to wait for an offer to be validated.
"At the moment he is not 100 per cent because of his long term injury, and now he has to work on recovering from this."
Stefani also stated Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City were ready to swoop in for his client's signature as soon as he reaches full fitness.
"Yes, they are interested, but many clubs are interested, from Spain, Italy, and Germany. To say that tomorrow he will go to England is not right," he added.
“There is always interest and everyone wants to play in the Premier League because it is a very big competition. But, I think we will have to wait until he is a 100 percent fit, not 85 percent."
Inter Join Real Madrid In Chase For Manchester United Left-Back Patrice Evra
Inter are set to rival Real Madrid in the race to sign unsettled Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
Evra, 29, is reported to have put his home in Manchester up for sale as he chases a fresh challenge after four glory-filled seasons at Old Trafford. The France skipper has been handed additional time off by manager Sir Alex Ferguson after his role in his nation's chaotic World Cup campaign, but this spell away could be used to negotiate a transfer.
New Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho is understood to see Evra as an alternative to Chelsea defender Ashley Cole. 'The Special One' also left Inter with the club on the lookout for a left sided stopper and Rafael Benitez has earmarked the £15 million-rated player as the man to fill the gap.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Manchester United Boss Sir Alex Ferguson Believes Maturity Will Make Wayne Rooney 'The Complete Footballer'
Scot expects Englishman to bounce back from poor World Cup
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced that growing maturity will not only enable Wayne Rooney to replicate his outstanding 34-goal tally from last season, but also turn the England striker into the finished article as a footballer.
Rooney struggled mightily at the World Cup, failing to score a goal as the Three Lions crashed out of the tournament in the Round of 16.
However, with a month off to recover from both a long domestic season and that disappointing World Cup, Ferguson believes that the reigning PFA Player of the Year will return to top form for United this season as he continues to mature.
"Wayne had an improvement [last season] in terms of his timing and movement in the penalty box and his positioning was improved from the previous season," Ferguson told a press conference in the United States.
"He got us over 30 goals and if he does that again and adds a little bit to his game, then that's what we expect.
"The boy has got an incredible armoury of talent and what we have to do is to wait for that maturity.
“We also do nurture it and try to advise and coach in a fashion which will improve his game. But the most important thing I think he needs now is maturity and, when he gets that, I think you will see the complete footballer."
Rooney and United's other World Cup players - Patrice Evra, Nemanja Vidic, Ji-Sung Park and Michael Carrick - have been excused the club’s pre-season tour of the United States and Canada in order to recuperate from their exertions in South Africa.
Ferguson hopes to see them return to the squad refreshed and ready to bring the Premier League title back to Old Trafford.
Barcelona Star Xavi: Cesc Fabregas Is Just 'On Loan' At Arsenal
Barcelona midfielder Xavi is sure to annoy Arsene Wenger and the Arsenal hierarchy with his latest comments regarding the ongoing saga of a possible move to Catalonia for Cesc Fabregas.
The Barca midfielder has insisted that Fabregas wants to come to Camp Nou and that the Gunners only have his Spain team-mate "on loan", and the Londoners can do nothing to stop him leaving evenutally.
"We know where Cesc wants to be this coming season, but perhaps there is not enough time for Barcelona and Arsenal to agree a deal," Xavi told The Daily Express.
"Arsenal need to understand they are only delaying the inevitable. If we don’t manage to get his signature this season then Arsenal only really have him on loan for a year – because there is nothing they can do to stop him joining next summer."
The Barca man also feels that the very latest that Fabregas will move will be next summer as a deal is inevitable.
“His [Fabregas’s] people will have a whole season to sort out the deal between the two clubs and it will happen at the very latest next summer," he added.
"I haven’t given up on him joining us this season but, if he doesn’t, it won’t be more than a year before he is back home.
"We were all with him for five weeks in South Africa and we know he wants to be at Barcelona, he made it very clear.
"But he will under no circumstances do anything that will upset the Arsenal fans. And that’s probably why we are going to have to wait for him for another year."
The Barca midfielder has insisted that Fabregas wants to come to Camp Nou and that the Gunners only have his Spain team-mate "on loan", and the Londoners can do nothing to stop him leaving evenutally.
"We know where Cesc wants to be this coming season, but perhaps there is not enough time for Barcelona and Arsenal to agree a deal," Xavi told The Daily Express.
"Arsenal need to understand they are only delaying the inevitable. If we don’t manage to get his signature this season then Arsenal only really have him on loan for a year – because there is nothing they can do to stop him joining next summer."
The Barca man also feels that the very latest that Fabregas will move will be next summer as a deal is inevitable.
“His [Fabregas’s] people will have a whole season to sort out the deal between the two clubs and it will happen at the very latest next summer," he added.
"I haven’t given up on him joining us this season but, if he doesn’t, it won’t be more than a year before he is back home.
"We were all with him for five weeks in South Africa and we know he wants to be at Barcelona, he made it very clear.
"But he will under no circumstances do anything that will upset the Arsenal fans. And that’s probably why we are going to have to wait for him for another year."
Manchester United Trailing Werder Bremen Star Mesut Oezil
Manchester United are believed to have re-ignited their interest in signing Werder Bremen midfielder Mesut Oezil.
The 21-year-old performed admirably for Germany during World Cup 2010 in South Africa, helping his country to a third placed finish in the tournament.
With only one year left on his current contract with the Bundesliga club, the young midfielder has been heavily linked with moves to other top European clubs this summer - with Real Madrid and Arsenal reported to be interested.
The former Schalke man was in negotiations over a new contract with the German club, but it appears that the talks have stalled - as general manager Klaus Allofs admitted that the two parties had been unable to find a solution.
Now The Sun reports that the Red Devils are keeping tabs on the talented midfielder, since manager Sir Alex Ferguson missed out on bringing him to Old Trafford as a teenager.
The 21-year-old performed admirably for Germany during World Cup 2010 in South Africa, helping his country to a third placed finish in the tournament.
With only one year left on his current contract with the Bundesliga club, the young midfielder has been heavily linked with moves to other top European clubs this summer - with Real Madrid and Arsenal reported to be interested.
The former Schalke man was in negotiations over a new contract with the German club, but it appears that the talks have stalled - as general manager Klaus Allofs admitted that the two parties had been unable to find a solution.
Now The Sun reports that the Red Devils are keeping tabs on the talented midfielder, since manager Sir Alex Ferguson missed out on bringing him to Old Trafford as a teenager.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Nani Ready To Make Manchester United Return After Dislocating Collarbone
Manchester United midfielder Nani is ready to make his return from a dislocated collarbone.
The Portuguese international, who missed the World Cup due to the injury, has been training with the United squad in the United States and could return this week in the friendly against Philadelphia Union.
"I just started training with the team three days ago," Nani said ahead of a training session at the NovaCare Complex.
"I am feeling good now. I can feel my fitness beginning to build up and I am hoping to play a little bit this week."
Nani is also pleased to be working with Sir Alex Ferguson again, with the Scot clearly a manager who enjoys the player's full respect.
"I am learning a lot from him," the winger added.
"He knows how to work with young lads and makes us grow up."
The Portuguese international, who missed the World Cup due to the injury, has been training with the United squad in the United States and could return this week in the friendly against Philadelphia Union.
"I just started training with the team three days ago," Nani said ahead of a training session at the NovaCare Complex.
"I am feeling good now. I can feel my fitness beginning to build up and I am hoping to play a little bit this week."
Nani is also pleased to be working with Sir Alex Ferguson again, with the Scot clearly a manager who enjoys the player's full respect.
"I am learning a lot from him," the winger added.
"He knows how to work with young lads and makes us grow up."
Soldiers Batter 3 LASTMA Officials
Four soldiers and two naval officers have beaten three officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA into unconsciousness at Mile 2 area of Lagos State, Nigeria.
•One of the LASTMA officials battered by soldiers.
The LASTMA officers-Gbenga Ajayi-Bembe, Akeem Bisiriyu and Abiodun Kayode were battered by the military men while trying to tow a broken down trailer obstructing traffic at Mile 2.
They were immediately rushed to the Gbagada General Hospital for treatment where they were revived after remaining in a state of unconsciousness for sometime.
P.M. NEWS gathered that trouble started when the Head, Zone 5, LASTMA had asked Kayode, the LASTMA towing vehicle driver to go and tow a trailer, which broke down at Mile 2 ‘Oke.’
The owner of the trailer was said to have called in the soldiers and naval officers who came and gave Kayode the beating of his life.
The soldiers successfully removed the trailer that had already been carried by the towing van and drove off while Kayode contacted his boss to come to his rescue, and then chased after the fleeing trailer being driven by the soldiers.
Getting to First Gate, Mile 2, Kayode used his towing vehicle to block the trailer while the soldiers came down and descended on him and beat him mercilessly until he collapsed into a state of unconsciousness, while two other officers came to rescue him.
The other two officers-Ajayi-Bembe and Bisiriyu who came to rescue their colleagues were also thoroughly beaten until they also became unconscious while the soldiers and the naval officers took the trailer away.
Speaking with P.M. NEWS, Kayode narrated the story, saying that “my boss told me to go and tow a trailer which broke down at Mile 2 Oke. I had already jacked the trailer into the towing van when the owner went to call two soldiers and they beat me up and removed the trailer from the van.
“I called my boss to come to my rescue and I pursued the trailer to first gate and blocked it. More soldiers and naval officers came and they beat me until I fainted.
“They beat my two other colleagues into unconsciousness and they smashed the windscreen of the towing van. I was soaked in blood before I passed out. The area boys in the area also started throwing stones at us.”
The three LASTMA officers also sustained severe injuries.
As at the time of filing this report, Bisiriyu was still seriously in bad condition in the hospital as he could not talk.Monday, July 12, 2010
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
A long day indeed
Hey all...hope u've been having a splendid weekend...mine has been really crazy....got a friend in prison over a stolen laptop which he bought not knowing it was stolen. Had to go visit him today and hmmmm....a prison is not a good place to be, especially a Nigerian prison. The place stank and i had to buy MOSQUITO COILS (Mosquito Teargas) to enable him have a good night's sleep today due to the size of the mosquitoes and the amount of blood they can suck per minute in the cell. Hopefully he will be out tomorrow as bail conditions are already been negotiated. Couldn't leave my house since morning due to the rain which fell for hours non-stop. GOD, it really did rain....and you know what comes next after the rain...COLD. OMG, how i wish i could.........................................because am feeling so cold...... Lest i forget there have been a whole lot of surprises at the ongoing world cup that it no longer hurts me that my team (Nigeria) is performing below expectations because even 90% of the so-called great teams have performed well below expectation.
I won't be surprised at all if a team coming to the world cup for the first time or a team considered an underdog wins the cup. Got to now.......see ya later
I won't be surprised at all if a team coming to the world cup for the first time or a team considered an underdog wins the cup. Got to now.......see ya later
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Super chickens of Nigeria
Am feeling so devastated right now...cos the team i support, my national team just lost a match they should have won, due to indiscipline from a member of the team. I had to leave my office to go watch the match, had to go in the rain and worst of all...had to murder my eyes trying to see a screen that was so blurry it could hypnotize you.......Though there is still a chance for the team, personally i have lost all hope....Damn..my eyes hurts....got to go now...see ya...
Who do you think should be the next president of the United States?
Do i look like an american?? mschewww.... :D
If you could go on vacation for the next month with an unlimited budget, where would you go?
Carribean Islands...oh..la...la..la..lah
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Back for good.
Hey peeps, been gone far too long that it feels really really good to be back....software programming really takes a chunk of your life and renders you social-less :D. Its been a long stay....and em...as we all know the world cup is in play and there have been a few surprises...England not living up to expectations, France as useless as ever, Argentina narrowly escaping from the claws of the Super Eagles....Almighty Brazil almost suprised by the lowly North Koreans.........and the JABULANI ball....a lot of players have been complaining about the ball, about needing some time to get used to it, we could see from the blunders by England's Robert Green and Algeria's goaltender that the ball is quite different than usual and em..yes...Germany is as good as ever, living up to their name - 'German Machines'.
Well, a lot of things have been happening with me...phases of life, relationships, work and so on but yeah, now am back for good. Missed you all....will keep updated, don't go away.... :D
Well, a lot of things have been happening with me...phases of life, relationships, work and so on but yeah, now am back for good. Missed you all....will keep updated, don't go away.... :D
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