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Villas-Boas To Spend £150 Million in January Transfer Window

2011-12-31T06:13:00.000+05:30

Andre Villas-Boas will be working overtime in the January market to overhaul his squad.

The Daily Express reported that the Chelsea boss has been given £150million by Roman Abramovich to transform Chelsea from title has-beens to recharged challengers.

Villas-Boas wants four players to revamp his ageing squad, and has already discussed his targets with owner Abramovich. He will kick off his spending with the £7m capture of Bolton central defender Gary Cahill when the January transfer window opens. He also wants a right-back, a midfield play-maker and a striker.

Villas-Boas knows he will probably have to wait until the summer to do the bulk of his business, but that will not stop him making a number of fresh enquiries next month.

He remains keen on Porto defender Alvaro Pereira, who he believes he can convert into a specialist right-back, while Chelsea officials have sounded out Everton over midfielder Jack Rodwell.

FCBEscola Camp Kicks Off In New Delhi

2011-12-31T06:07:00.000+05:30

FCBEscola, in association with Conscient Football, began the first of the two camps at The British School, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. The second camp will take place at The Heritage School Gurgaon. With 180 participants, the camp has been divided in two batches of 90 each.

The first phase of the camp was held from December 30, 2011 to January 04, 2012 with January 01, 2012 being the day off. All participants received an official FCB Camp kit to wear during their 15 hours of FCBEscola training.

Ex-Barcelona player and now coach at FCBEscola Josep ‘Pep’ Moratalla is leading the training assisted by two Spanish coaches, six coaches from Conscient Football and six assistants. The participants are in following groups - Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, Under 14 and Under 17.

The camp is open to both boys and girls of all football playing abilities. During the intense sessions, participants will be trained in the same manner the FC Barcelona players undergo.

Anupama Jain, Director – Conscient Football, said, “This has been a great start as we have received phenomenal interest from players in Delhi as well as from other cities around the country. The participants represent over 80 schools and we have a number of girls who have registered for the camp which reflects the growth of football in India.”

PL Wrap:Liverpool beat Newcastle UTD 3-1

2011-12-31T06:04:00.000+05:30

Two goals from Craig Bellamy against his former club gave Liverpool a 3-1 win over Newcastle United on Friday.

As well as Bellamy's tireless efforts, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard continued his impressive return from injury, scoring a goal and providing some much-needed impetus as the Reds ran away with the match in the second half.

The Magpies had taken the lead at Anfield in the first half courtesy of Yohan Cabaye's deflected header, but Bellamy equalised just four minutes later and double his tally in the second half, before Gerrard put the icing on the cake with a late third.

Stuart Downing was the first to test Krul, cutting in from the right and hitting a low drive towards the bottom corner which the big Dutchman held well.

The hosts were bossing the possession, but they were unable to create any telling chances and on 25 minutes, the visitors struck first.

Ryan Taylor cut in from the left and angled a cross in towards Yohan Cabaye, whose flicked header took a nick off the arm of Agger and nestled in to the Liverpool net, with Reina helpless as he moved the other way.

The goal was the spark the hosts needed, however, and within four minutes they were level as Craig Bellamy rifled in a low drive from the middle of the box after Newcastle failed to clear their lines following good work from Charlie Adam.

The Reds continued to look dangerous down the wings, with Bellamy in particular looking lively, but they failed to significantly trouble a Newcastle defence which was brilliantly marshalled by

Fabricio Coloccini, who won almost every aerial duel against Andy Carroll.

Alan Pardew would have been keen for his side to retain better possession in the second half, and his team duly obliged as they frustrated Liverpool after the restart, who themselves were unable to pick up the tempo of the game.

Dalglish waited until the hour mark to introduce captain Gerrard, and the talismanic midfielder threatened immediately after his introduction, whipping an inviting cross towards Andy Carroll which flashed across the goal mouth.

The frustrated Carroll then spurned a glorious chance, as he latched on to another incisive Gerrard pass only to touch the ball in to the grateful gloves of Tim Krul.

Liverpool's frustration was not to last, however, as Bellamy rifled in a free kick from 25 yards which bounced between Krul and Danny Simpson to put the hosts in front.

Newcastle almost hit back immediately when Ba was played through by Cabaye, but his well-placed chip over Reina was brilliantly hooked off the line by Skrtel.

And a moment later, Carroll almost netted against his former club with a close-range header, but it cannoned back off the crossbar.

And with just over ten minutes to go, the captain made the points safe, slotting home between Krul’s legs from a tight angle after being played in by Jay Spearing.

NBA star Garnett buys Roma stake

2011-12-31T06:01:00.000+05:30

Roma have confirmed that Boston Celtics star Kevin Garnett has agreed to purchase a small stake in the Serie A club.

The 35-year-old baskteball player accepted the offer from James Pallotta, one of the four Boston-based executives who purchased the team in August.

Over the past few years, Garnett has been very vocal in his interest in football, revealing passion for English side Chelsea and star player Didier Drogba.

Garnett becomes the second NBA player to purchase a stake in a football club after Miami Heat star Lebron James invested in Liverpool earlier this year.

James attended his first game at Anfield to watch the club draw 1-1 against Manchester United in October.

The Garnett and James deals are tied together because Roma president Thomas DiBenedetto is also a limited partner in the Fenway group, which owns the Boston Red Sox baseball team and Liverpool.

Donovan eager to help Everton

2011-12-31T05:59:00.000+05:30

Everton loan signing Landon Donovan believes he is at the peak of his career as he prepares for his second stint at Goodison Park.

The United States international and Los Angeles Galaxy forward impressed in his loan spell at Everton in January 2010, netting twice in 13 games.

With the MLS season over, Donovan, 29, will return to Everton on a two-month loan as David Moyes looks to give his side spark in the attacking third.

Donovan said on Friday he felt he was in the best form of his career after improving since his last spell in the English Premier League.

"Confidence is always important as a football but I think more importantly, I'm more experienced and better player than I was two years ago and, before you hit the back end of your career physically, you get better (mentally)," he said.

"I feel like I've grown a lot over the last two years. I had a World Cup in between that helped a lot. I feel like these are the best years of my career."

Donovan is likely to feature for 10th-placed Everton against Bolton on January 4, while his last appearance in the two-month loan deal could be the Merseyside derby at Liverpool on February 25.

The former Bayer Leverkusen forward said he was ready for the pressure of needing to provide almost immediately in the front third.

"All athletes at this level have a responsibility and come under pressure and it's something you deal with," Donovan said.

"The beauty of this for me is that I want to enjoy myself. Last time I played best when I was enjoying myself."

New York Red Bulls forward Thierry Henry is set to return to Arsenal on a two-month loan deal, and Donovan backed the Frenchman to have an impact.

"I played against him four times this year and he's a very good player," Donovan said.

"He doesn't look like he's lost much pace at all. He's a class guy and a very good player and there's no question he will help Arsenal if he goes."

Ancelotti appointed PSG manager

2011-12-31T05:56:00.000+05:30

Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as the club's new coach.

The 52-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year contract and replaces Antoine Kombouare in the Parc des Princes hotseat.

He will also bring with him former Chelsea and France midfielder Claude Makelele and former AC Milan fitness coach Giovanni Mauri.

Speaking at a press conference alongside sporting director Leonardo on Friday, Ancelotti cited the lure of realising the potential of the French giants as his reasoning behind agreeing to take charge, despite numerous offers from England.

"I accepted the challenge because I think that I can do a good job and PSG can become a big club in Europe," said Ancelotti.

"I had plenty of calls regarding work in England and my experiences there were very good."

"However, everything is in place here to do very well and the club has great ambitions. I am attracted by the project."

PSG were recently given a significant cash injection by the Qatar Investment Authority, who purchased the club in May, and subsequently paved the way for heavy expenditure on new players.

However, while both parties have discussed the possibility of making more additions during January, Ancelotti revealed his priority is to bring attractive football to PSG, while discussing the chances of signing trio Alexandre Pato, Didier Drogba and Florent Malouda.

"I've not come here to change everything. PSG are top of Ligue 1. I want us to be dynamic, attractive but also efficient," he affirmed.

"I have good relationship with (Drogba and Malouda). But bringing them here is another thing. We've not spoken about them."

"Pato is a player with whom I've kept up great relations. It's that way with many of my old players," enthused Ancelotti. "But it pleased me when Pato spoke well of me."

"That said, he's a AC Milan player and for him to come, conditions must be met. Firstly, his club must want to sell him. Secondly it's necessary that there are conditions under which we can sign him."

Meanwhile, Leonardo offered an update on the situation of David Beckham, who has been linked with a move to PSG in recent weeks, and claimed that the decision lays with the Englishman.

"I believe that Beckham has an enormous impact among the media. But we've never said that it's done with him."

"We have a very good rapport, but I don’t know if that will work with David Beckham. For him, this is a familial choice. He is currently in LA, with his family."

"He must spend time there to reflect on his personal life, but nothing is done. I don't know what he'll do," he concluded.

Ancelotti's first match will be against former club AC Milan, in a glamour friendly clash in Dubai on January 4.

Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea Keen On Kaka

2011-12-30T06:20:00.000+05:30

Reports have emerged that Premier League clubs are queuing to speak to Real Madrid about Kaka’s availability.

El Confidencial says Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea are all circling Real for talks over a deal for Kaka.

Real are prepared to sell the Brazilian international for €35 million in January – and his price will drop further should clubs wait until June to negotiate.

Kaka, who joined Real from AC Milan for €67 million in 2009, is currently in Brazil being kept up-to-date on developments.

Acelotti can make PSG a European Superpower

2011-12-30T06:17:00.000+05:30

Fifa agent Fabrizio Ferrari believes that Carlo Ancelotti is capable of establishing Paris Saint-Germain as one of the top clubs in European football.

Ancelotti is expected to be confirmed as the French club’s new coach in the coming days, with the two-time Champions League winner widely reported to have accepted a lucrative two-and-a-half-year contract to succeed Antoine Kombouare at the helm.

The 52-year-old Italian has been out of the game since being sacked by Chelsea in May but Ferrari expects Ancelotti to waste little time in establishing the newly-flush PSG as one of Europe’s elite.

"I'm sure that Ancelotti will do very well,” the agent told Goal.com. “He is one of the strongest Italian coaches and all of his teams play good football.

“In his career he has only had the misfortune to arrive at a disadvantageous time at Chelsea, who had a team with a high average age.

“His arrival will change everything in French football. Although I would have liked to see Kombouare leading the team until the end of season, I am sure that with Ancelotti at PSG they will be established as one of the top seven clubs in Europe.”

Speculation is rife that Ancelotti will soon be joined in the French capital by a player he is familiar with from his days with AC Milan, Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato, who is seemingly on the verge of leaving San Siro.

Ferrari is in no doubt that the arrival of Pato could prove just as significant as that of Ancelotti.

“It’s certain that Pato would be ideal for PSG,” he reasoned. “The Brazilian is much better than Kevin Gameiro, who is a good player but not in the highest bracket [of strikers].

"Pato could really make a big difference in Ligue 1.”

Ancelotti won two Champions Leagues during his time with Milan before leaving for Chelsea in 2010. He led the Blues to a league and cup double in his first season at Stamford Bridge but was then unceremoniously fired by owner Roman Abramovich at the end of last season.

Doumbia named Russia's player of the year

2011-12-30T06:14:00.000+05:30

CSKA Moscow forward Seydou Doumbia was named Russia's player of the year on Thursday.

The Ivory Coast international collected 591 points in an annual poll of the country's football journalists conducted by Football Weekly.

Doumbia bested Dynamo Moscow's Ukrainian international striker Andrei Voronin, who finished second in the poll with 505 points, as well as Zenit St Petersburg striker Alexander Kerzhakov, third with 129.

Doumbia is top scorer in the Russian Premier League with 24 goals from 32 matches.

His five goals in the group stage of this year's UEFA Champions League helped his side reach the last-16, where they will clash with Real Madrid for a quarter-final spot in February.

Ajax fan jailed for ´keeper assault

2011-12-30T06:10:00.000+05:30

The Ajax supporter who attacked AZ goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado during last week's KNVB Beker clash has been sentenced to six months in jail.

The 19-year-old assailant, known only as Wesley W. during the trial, entered the field of play 36 minutes into the game at the Amsterdam ArenA and aimed a kung-fu kick at Esteban.

The goalkeeper then retaliated and, after his attacker had been restrained by security, was dismissed by referee Bas Nijhuis, much to the disgust of AZ coach Gertjan Verbeek, who ordered his players off te field, thus forcing the abandonment of the game.

Wesley W. was found guilty of "aggravated assault with premeditated malice" at an Amsterdam court on Thursday and sentenced to ten months imprisonment, with the final four months of the term suspended.

Esteban's dismissal was rescinded last week by the KNVB, which also confirmed the tie will be replayed in full behind closed doors on January 19.

Cassano faces a further six months on the sidelines

2011-12-30T06:06:00.002+05:30

AC Milan forward Antonio Cassano has revealed he faces a further six months on the sidelines as he recovers from heart surgery.

The Italy international was forced to undergo an emergency procedure after falling ill following Milan's victory at Roma at the end of October.

It was hoped the striker might be fit to return to action before the end of the season and thus force his way into the reckoning for Euro 2012.

However, Cassano has revealed it will be June before he is kicking a ball in anger again.

"I have to wait six months to play," Cassano said. "Until then, walk, walk, walk."

Cassano said the support of his Milan team-mates has been overwhelming, and particularly that of strike partner Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"He's one of my best friends," Cassano said. "I have a great relationship with him and with all of Milan."

Henry to join Arsenal on Loan

2011-12-30T06:05:00.000+05:30

Frenchman Thierry Henry is set to be offered the chance to return to Arsenal on a two-month loan deal, according to reports.

The New York Red Bulls forward has been training at Emirates Stadium in a bid to maintain his fitness during the MLS off-season, and has reportedly impressed Arsene Wenger with his sharpness and attitude.

Wenger is believed to be targeting attacking reinforcements in January, both to cover the departures of Gervinho and Marouane Chamakh to the Africa Cup of Nations, and to ease the pressure on in-form captain Robin van Persie, who tops the English Premier League scoring charts.

Cologne striker Lukas Podolski has also been linked to a move to Arsenal, but Henry appears likely to be signed on a short-term deal, according to the Daily Mail.

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker said on Thursday he would be delighted to have Henry in the squad after being impressed by the 34-year-old in training.

"I am very happy training with (Henry), very happy. He is playing very, very good. I am happy to play against him in training and it is a great experience," the German said.

"He is a great opportunity for us, but I'm not the manager, I couldn't find a decision or what is possible for him or for us."

"In training he shows his class and to have him with us is great because he shows his attitude, his experience. He still has the same attitude he showed in a lot of games at Arsenal."

Henry remains Arsenal's all-time record goalscorer with 226 goals to his name between 1999 and 2007, and his outstanding contribution was recently honoured with the unveiling of a statue outside Emirates Stadium.

Nocerino keen to play with Tevez

2011-12-30T06:03:00.002+05:30

AC Milan midfielder Antonio Nocerino has revealed he wants Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez to join the Serie A champions in January.

Roberto Mancini is keen to see Tevez leave Etihad Stadium on a permanent deal when the transfer window opens, but he may be forced to settle for a loan.

Speaking to Sky Sport 24 on Wednesday, Nocerino said he would welcome the out-of-favour Argentine to the San Siro.

"(Tevez) is a great player. I hope he can come to Milan," Nocerino said.

Midfielder Nocerino arrived at the club from Palermo on the last day of the transfer window on August 31, and has quickly developed into a key player for Massimiliano Allegri.

He is in the middle of a productive campaign, having netted six league goals this season.

However, Nocerino played down his achievements to date, claiming he is only doing his bit to contribute to AC Milan's cause at the top of the table.

"I scored six goals, and I consider myself to be quite a prolific scorer. I'm just a normal guy who plays with so many champions," he said.

Nocerino also expressed his gratitude to his first club Juventus, where he started his career, for nurturing his talent.

"I owe so much to Juventus because I had grown up there," he said.

"Now I am part of Milan, however, I am happy here and I hope we can celebrate at the end of the season."

Barcelona Prepare Swap Deal For Torres

2011-12-29T06:47:00.000+05:30

There are Catalan press claims of an amazing swap deal involving Chelsea striker Fernando Torres moving to Barcelona.

El Mundo Deportivo says Torres will join Barca in exchange for youngsters Sergi Roberto, Isaac Cuenca and Martin Montoya.

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas drove the deal, offering Torres to Barca with the European champs losing David Villa for the season and was initially demanding Pedro in part exchange.

Barca coach Pep Guardiola, in talks with Chelsea chief Michael Emenalo in Brescia, refused to release Pedro and instead offered three of their top youngsters.

Blues midfielder Oriol Romeu also had a big say in the deal, convincing his three former Barca B teammates about life in London and at Stamford Bridge. The young trio are expected in London on Saturday to finalise their switch.

Torres, meanwhile, is expected in Barcelona later today.

Hulk may move to Chelsea

2011-12-29T06:43:00.000+05:30

The agent of Porto star Hulk won’t rule out a move to Chelsea for the Brazilian.

Hulk played for Blues manager Andre Villas-Boas at Porto and has been linked to a reunion with his former coach.

“Hulk to Chelsea? Anything is possible,” said agent Theodoro Fonseca.

“But his buyout clause is €100 million so his future depends on an agreement between the clubs.”

Chelsea Target Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain

2011-12-29T06:39:00.000+05:30

Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain has emerged as a target for Chelsea with the club seeking to get hold of the player’s representatives to see if he would be interested in a move to Stamford Bridge.

According to The Times, Andre Villas-Boas will find out if the 24-year-old is available as he seeks to re-adjust his faltering forward line.

The Argentine has a phenomenal scoring record with the Spanish giants and averages a goal every 53 minutes this season, having netted 12 times in La Liga despite making just seven starts.

Daniel Sturridge has proved to be a real bonus on the wing for Villas-Boas with nine goals in the Premier League and Juan Mata has slotted well on the other flank in his debut season following his summer move from Valencia.

However, the Portuguese boss has problems in the forward line with star strikers Fernando Torres and Didier Drogba both having scored just two goals in the league apiece.

Drogba, who goes to the Africa Cup of Nations next month, has yet to agree a new deal with the club and is known to be a target for Shanghai Shenhua, who want to pair him with up current team-mate Nicolas Anelka as the Frenchman is due to join the Chinese side in the transfer window.

It is also reported that Chelsea would be willing to listen to offers for Florent Malouda - who recently threatened a move away - and Salomon Kalou as the Blues look to reignite their season.

The Londoners are expected to sign Bolton Wanderers defender Gary Cahill next month but with problems persisting up front they could make a move for Higuain, who has had to settle for a place behind Karim Benzema in the starting line-up as Jose Mourinho only plays one striker in his system.

However, any move would rely on the former Chelsea boss being willing to sell the 24-year-old to his protege while Madrid are top of La Liga and targeting success in three competitions as they seek to end the dominance of rivals Barcelona.

Alex wants Santos move

2011-12-29T06:36:00.000+05:30

Chelsea defender Alex has revealed his desire to return to Santos after handing in a transfer request at Stamford Bridge.

The 29-year-old began his career with the Brazilian outfit before moving to Europe in 2004.

The centre back has not hesitated in naming the club with which he won the 2002 Brazilian Serie A title with as his preferred destination, but admits a move may be problematic with his contract not set to expire until 2013.

"My first option will be Santos, but it depends on a lot of things. First, on a proposal from the club, it isn't just my decision," Alex told Terra.

"The biggest problem is that I still have a year-and-a-half on my Chelsea contract, it will be difficult to get released. If I had less time on the contract a return to Brazil would be easier."

Alex recognised that if he were to return to Santos he would face a substantial wage drop, but he insisted that he was not fazed by the prospect.

"I have been aware of it since I asked for the transfer. I know that if I go back to Brazil the salary will not be the same, it will be tough to keep it even close. But that is not an issue for me, players who go back know they will lose out financially," he stated.

Alex has appeared 14 times for the Brazil national team and was part of the side which lifted the 2007 Copa America in Venezuela.

Arsenal not to bid for Gourcuff

2011-12-29T06:32:00.000+05:30

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has ruled out a January move for France international Yoann Gourcuff.

The Lyon midfielder has been hampered by an ankle injury this Ligue 1 season but is slowly returning to match fitness, and rumours have suggested that the 25-year-old could be on his way to the English Premier League club in January's transfer window.

But while Wenger believes that Gourcuff, 25, will return to his best in the second half of the campaign, he has distanced himself from speculation linking him with a move for the player.

"We have choices in midfield," he told the club's website.

"We have (Abou) Diaby and (Jack) Wilshere coming back from injury so we have lots of people in there."

"However, I see a positive future for Gourcuff. I think he will come back to his best level. He has been out for four or five months and what happens to him now is normal."

"He's played his first few games only on his desire and, after an injury, it's normal to have a dip."

"Between January and June will be the key moment for him but I think he will be back to his best."

Pato,Inzaghi set to leave Milan

2011-12-29T06:30:00.000+05:30

AC Milan forwards Alexandre Pato and Filippo Inzaghi have both been linked with moves away from the Serie A club.

Pato is the number one target of Ligue 1 outfit Paris Saint-Germain and the French club are ready to table a big offer for the Brazilian when the January transfer window opens.

The 22-year-old striker is reported to be the subject of an offer of just above 41 million pounds as PSG look to bolster their forward options.

The reports surfaced in the Italian media after an apparent breakdown in relations between Pato and Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri.

Pato is said to have taken offence at Allegri's public comments that criticised him but Milan have insisted the player will stay at the San Siro.

Inzaghi is another player being linked with a move away from Italy, with Spanish outfit Espanyol said to be interested in signing the veteran.

The 38-year-old is also a reported target of two English Premier League sides.

The transfer window opens on January 1.

Corluka linked with Roma

2011-12-29T06:28:00.000+05:30

Serie A club Roma are attempting to sign Tottenham's Vedran Corluka, according to reports.

Corluka arrived at White Hart Lane from Manchester City three years ago and initially fought off competition from Alan Hutton, who moved to Aston Villa in the close season, for the right-back spot.

However, the Croat has been limited to just three appearances in the Premier League this season due to the emergence of Kyle Walker.

And with Euro 2012 coming up at the end of the season, he is worried about losing his spot in the national squad due to a lack of first-team football.

His agent Nikky Vuksan has said he would be happy to see Corluka playing in a Roma shirt, according to The Sun.

It is understood the Italian side have made an enquiry for the full-back and that the player himself is interested in a move to Italy.

Redknapp praises Bale as 'Unplayable'

2011-12-28T07:23:00.000+05:30

Harry Redknapp heaped praise on an 'unplayable' Gareth Bale after the winger scored both goals in Tottenham's 2-0 victory over Norwich City.

Spurs were frustrated in the first half of their English Premier League clash on Tuesday, but Bale made the breakthrough shortly after the interval before adding another with a chipped finish after a brilliant run.

Redknapp was pleased to see the Wales international winger flourish in a free role afforded to him at Carrow Road.

"I freed him off today," Redknapp told Sky Sports. "We played a different system today, to be honest."

"I played with the three midfield players and let him and Rafa (van der Vaart) play spare."

"I said, 'Just go and play where you want to play basically and when we lose possession just get in a little slot. If you can get wide, do a job there, if you're out of the play one of the midfield players will slot over'."

"He gets in those holes and when he gets the ball and turns and runs at you, he's unplayable."

Redknapp was delighted with the performance on Tuesday, which leaves Spurs four points clear of fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand.

"(It was a) good result today for us. When you're up there you have to keep picking up results," he said.

"I thought it would be a difficult game tonight and we kept the ball well, moved the ball and passed it great tonight. There was real quality about our play."

PL Wrap:Norwich City 0 Tottenham 2

2011-12-28T07:20:00.000+05:30

Tottenham put daylight between themselves and their Champions League rivals with a convincing 2-0 victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road.

Two goals from Gareth Bale - the second a majestic solo effort - were enough to settle the English Premier League encounter on Tuesday, as Harry Redknapp's side dominated from start to finish against Paul Lambert's brave City.

Tottenham were buoyed by the return of Rafael Van Der Vaart to the starting XI, as they looked to secure a win which would put some distance between themselves and the chasing pack of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool.

Norwich, meanwhile, opted for a 4-4-2 system, with Steve Morison paired up front with Grant Holt as the hosts looked to add to their impressive haul of 27 goals - more than any other side outside the top five this season.

The match kicked off in front of a vociferous sell-out crowd at Carrow Road, with the home side looking to continue their fine home form against a Spurs team bidding to haul in the Manchester clubs at the top of the table.

The visitors controlled the proceedings for the first half-hour but were unable to convert their possession into chances, with wayward shots from Kyle Walker and Younes Kaboul and a deflected Bale strike the only efforts Spurs could muster.

That was until just after the 30-minute mark, when two clear-cut chances came in quick succession.

First, Bale robbed Russell Martin on the edge of the area, before driving in to the box only to fire his shot well over John Ruddy's crossbar.

Emmanuel Adebayor then had an opportunity after being played through from a glorious long ball from Luka Modric, but his first touch was too heavy and he only succeeded in poking the ball out of play beyond the on-rushing Ruddy.

Bale then teed himself up on the edge of the box with a glorious first touch, but his left-footed shot was well parried by the goalkeeper.

At the other end, Morison tried to curl a shot beyond Spurs shot-stopper Brad Friedel after being played in by Holt, but got his angles wrong.

The hosts were struggling to create anything of note, however, as the visitors dominated possession, with Modric pulling the strings in the middle of the park.

Tottenham had a shout for a penalty turned down on the cusp of half-time when William Gallas was tripped deliberately by Morison in the run-up to a corner kick, but the clash went unnoticed by the officials and the scores remained level at the break.

The second half started at the same high tempo, with Spurs continuing to look dangerous in wide areas whenever Bale and Modric got in to space.

It was Norwich, however, who came closest to opening the scoring. Andrew Surman was brought down by Gallas on the edge of the area, and the midfielder curled the resulting kick inches wide of Friedel’s post on 51 minutes.

It proved to be the hosts' one and only clear opportunity.

Because just as Norwich looked to be asserting themselves on the match, Spurs finally broke the deadlock.

Van Der Vaart slipped the ball through to Adebayor in the box, and the Togo striker showed some great footwork to keep hold of the ball.

He then played it across to Gareth Bale, who slotted home low under Ruddy to hand Spurs the lead after 56 minutes.

Walker then had the chance to double the advantage a few minutes later after being teed up by Benoit Assou-Ekotto, but his shot once again flew wildly over the bar.

The visitors did not have long to wait to double their lead, however.

Bale was played through by Modric on 67 minutes, and the Welshman ran straight through the heart of the Norwich rear-guard before chipping coolly over Ruddy to dampen the spirits of the home fans.

The Norwich faithful tried to rouse their beleaguered side, but Spurs were in total control of the game, with Modric majestic in midfield alongside Sandro and Scott Parker.

Harry Redknapp was able to use his substitutions to give a handful of first-team stars a well-earned rest, as his side cruised through the final few minutes to victory.

PL Wrap:Swansea 1 QPR 1

2011-12-28T07:17:00.000+05:30

QPR grabbed a deserved away point against Swansea to lift themselves three points clear of the relegation zone.

The Swans led at half-time thanks to a fine drive from Danny Graham, before Jamie Mackie's second-half strike helped the visitors to a share of the points.

The game between two sides playing in England's second-tier last season began in an attacking manner.

Graham managed to latch onto a Joe Allen corner kick only to see it cleared by QPR's defence, before the striker just failed to meet Wayne Routledge's curling cross.

It came as no surprise when the Swans notched the opener in the 14th minute.

Graham received Routledge's chipped pass before curling a superb drive into the bottom right-hand corner.

Ex-Newcastle United man Joey Barton almost got the equaliser for the visitors only minutes later, when his thunderous 25-yard strike was palmed over by Netherlands international goalkeeper Michel Vorm.

Allen's corner for the hosts saw Ashley Williams head an effort a wide of the goal, with Graham poking his cheeky effort into the side netting.

Graham was back in action not soon after when he impressively held off Fitz Hall on 37 minutes, but saw his low drive saved by QPR goalkeeper Paddy Kenny.

QPR mounted an attack in the closing moments of the first half, when Luke Young's clever cross successfully found Heidar Helguson in the box.

But the Icelandic striker's header narrowly flew over the crossbar from eight yards out.

The 34-year-old went close to equalising again when he nodded over a ball from Barton.

QPR began the second half the more impressive team, with Adel Taarabt - restored to the starting XI - showing off his skills by exchanging passes with Barton before drilling a fierce shot wide of the Swansea goal.

The Londoners then drew level with just over half an hour to go.

Kenny hit a long ball upfield and, after a defensive error from Swansea's Leon Britton, Mackie ran through before lifting the ball over Vorm.

Swansea were lucky not to concede another goal only minutes later, when Vorm produced a miraculous save from another Mackie effort.

With 18 minutes left to run, the home side had a penalty shout turned down when Armand Traore brought down Graham, only to see referee Lee Probert wave play onward.

Taarabt was straight up the other end moments later and struck a marvellous 25-yard effort towards the bottom corner, only to see Vorm palm the ball away to keep Swansea level.

The result moved QPR a point further away from the relegation zone, while Swansea edge to 14th.

PL Wrap: Arsenal 1 Wolves 1

2011-12-28T07:14:00.001+05:30

Arsenal dropped valuable home points as they failed to leapfrog Chelsea into fourth place.

A goal from Gervinho looked to have given the hosts the perfect start after 10 minutes, but they were pegged back by a Steven Fletcher header in the first half.

Then a string of brilliant saves by Wayne Hennessey throughout the game helped keep the Midland side in the hunt for a point.

Israeli international Yossi Benayoun, in for Aaron Ramsey, played a pivotal role for the home team, sending Gervinho through on goal in the opening 10 minutes.

The striker was played onside by Ronald Zubar, whose appeal gave Gervinho a free run at goal, as he rounded Hennessey before coolly dispatching the ball into the bottom corner.

Arsenal were a constant threat on the break in the opening 20 minutes, with Benayoun finding plenty space, even if his footwork let him down at times.

Robin van Persie, still looking to break the record for goals scored in a calendar year, dragged his shot wide after being put through by Gervinho.

Van Persie was soon teasing the Wolves defenders again, constantly shaping up to hit a shot with his deadly left foot before switching to his right and putting in a cross from wide on the right.

The Dutchman was later denied by a good block from Roger Johnson, and then a fine stop by Hennessey as he dived low to his right to turn the ball around the post.

Arsenal seemed comfortable in possession, but Wolves earned a way back into the match seven minutes before half-time.

A corner was whipped in by Nenad Milijas, but only partially cleared by the Arsenal defence.

Stephen Hunt juggled the ball past Rosicky on the edge of the area, but his volleyed shot was deflected by Vermaelen into the path of Steven Fletcher.

His header across the face of goal just evaded Wojciech Szczesny and crept in for a shock equaliser.

The second half began badly for Wolves as Zubar was forced off through injury.

Arsenal were dominant in possession as they went in search of a second goal, and had claims for a penalty turned down as Laurent Koscielny's cross hit Christophe Berra on the arm.

They started to turn their dominance into chances with van Persie forcing a good save from Hennessey with a free-kick before Mertesacker's header was brilliantly stopped by the Welshman.

The game threatened to turn nasty as Alex Song was put into the book for kicking Fletcher before catching Hunt high on the shin, and Thomas Vermaelen tangled with Roger Johnson.

Minutes later, referee Stuart Attwell produced a very harsh red card for Milijas.

The midfielder lost control of the ball and slid in one-footed with his leg on the floor, winning the ball in the process, with Mikel Arteta making the most of the contact.

Substitute Andrey Arshavin almost found the top corner with a toe-poked effort with 10 minutes to go, but his effort slid past the post.

Thiago wants Milan captaincy

2011-12-28T07:06:00.000+05:30

Thiago Silva wants to become AC Milan captain and is hoping to spend the rest of his career at the San Siro.

The 27-year-old Brazilian became the club's first foreign skipper since Nils Liedholm in 1961 when he was handed the armband for last month's Serie A fixture against Chievo, and has admitted that earning that honour on a regular basis has become a target of his in the long term.

"I hadn't originally wanted to be captain, but then I became the Brazil skipper and I changed my mind," he told Ansa.

He is currently placed behind the likes of Massimo Ambrosini, Gennaro Gattuso and Christian Abbiati in the pecking order for the role at San Siro, but his vision for the future revolves around a lengthy stint with the Rossoneri.

"In 2016, I will speak with (CEO) Adriano Galliani about renewing my contract for another five years. We will see what happens."

Thiago Silva's compatriot Ganso has been linked with a move to Milan, and the defender said the 22-year-old Santos star could have a very positive impact.

"If we bought him in January he would make a big difference in both Serie A and the Champions League," he said.

Thiago Silva signed for Milan in 2008, making his debut for the club at the start of the 2009-10 season.

"But there is certainly nothing concrete at the moment. I also read that Manchester United would like to extend his contract."

On Boxing Day, Berbatov netted a hat-trick against Wigan. In addition to Leverkusen, a number of other clubs have been linked with his signing, including Tottenham and Fulham.