Kishky

How Parker transformed Fulham & led them back to the Premier League promised land

2020-08-05T05:30:00.000-07:00

The west London club stand to earn around £130m by competing in the top flight having spoiled the Brentford fairy-tale at Wembley on Tuesday

Fulham’s Championship Playoff Final victory against west London neighbours Brentford on Tuesday night completed a remarkable turnaround under Scott Parker.

This is a club that spent some £100 million ($132m) in preparation for their last Premier League campaign, money frittered away as Fulham were relegated at the end of the 2018-19 season having conceded 81 goals.

There was a divided dressing room; the presence of expensive signings who failed to make an impact upsetting those who had gained promotion the previous campaign.

Heads dropped all around Craven Cottage. So deep was the hurt that a double relegation similar to that of Sunderland was not out of the question.

Jean-Michael Seri, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, Floyd Ayite, Andre Schurrle, Luciano Vietto and Sergio Rico were among those who departed last summer, with those that were up for the fight remaining to take on the 46-game Championship marathon.

"I realised the squad was fragile, the football club was fragile and we had these separate bands," Parker had said ahead of kick-off at Wembley.

"At the forefront of my mind was trying to bring the club back together a little bit and try to create an environment and culture.

"In all successful clubs and businesses, it comes from a core foundation, when everything runs in the right way and everyone is on the same page. The club was very disjointed. We were in a bad spell.

"It has been a rocky road because you can’t just have a magic wand and go from real disbelief, a real weak mentality and disconnection and within two months be fighting to win."

Top goalscorer Aleksandar Mitrovic, captain Tom Cairney, and full-backs Joe Bryan and Cyrus Christie were standouts all season long in returning Fulham to the top table of English football.

New signings Michael Hector, Bobby Decordova-Reid, Harrison Reed, Ivan Cavaleiro and Anthony Knockaert all came in - with the latter two having experienced promotion from the Championship previously with Wolves and Brighton.

"This was a team that 15 months ago lost most weeks," Parker said. “Everyone could see that from the outside and judge that. What people did not see and did not understand was a deep-rooted issue at a club that had some wounds and issues.

"We have tried to change the mentality. I am proud because I see a team that has transformed. Some clear errors were made [when Fulham were promoted] last time and we will learn from that."

Brentford were the fairy-tale story ahead of kick-off. One of the Championship's smallest clubs tried to return to the top flight for the first time since 1947 in the season they said goodbye to their 114-year-old stadium Griffin Park.

But Fulham shut out a 58-goal front three of Ollie Watkins, Said Benrahma and Bryan Mbeumo. At the other end, an unlikely hero in left-back Bryan stepped forward, striking twice in extra-time to deliver promotion.

The first - a 36-yard free-kick from a wide angle - exploited David Raya's position with Parker telling his full-back to shoot seconds earlier having identified the goalkeeper's weak point.

"We had done our due diligence on their keeper and he has a very aggressive starting position from free-kicks," Parker said.

"I called Joe over but I did not want to let on to Brentford’s bench and players, so we tried to bluff it a bit. I said to Joe: 'Listen, I want you to go for it. I want you to commit to it.'"

The second goal completed the task before Brentford struck late on.

For Parker, there were tears of joy and he cried in the arms of his talismanic No.9 Mitrovic after what has been an exhausting journey.

He is now delivering the standards in management that he did in his playing career.

Parker has been a polite and big-thinking leader, overturning every stone to get to the Premier League. He deserves to be placed alongside Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard in the category of talented and emerging English managers.

Having played under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea and captained England and Tottenham, Parker is working towards a successful career in the dugout.

Fulham now have to prove they have learned from their mistakes last time having achieved this £130m ($171m) promotion bonanza, and aim for a more permanent place in the top flight.

'Everyone at Man City knows about Werner' - Gundogan wary of Chelsea threat & says Havertz better than Ballack

2020-08-05T05:11:00.004-07:00

The German midfielder has weighed in on the the Blues' summer transfer dealings ahead of the 2020-21 campaign

Ilkay Gundogan has admitted to being wary of Chelsea's threat next season, insisting "everyone at Manchester City knows about Timo Werner" while also describing Blues target Kai Havertz as a better player than Michael Ballack.

Werner completed a £47.5 million ($62m) move to Chelsea from RB Leipzig in June, after another outstanding season in the Bundesliga.

The 24-year-old notched 34 goals in 45 appearances to help Julian Nagelsmann's side finish third in the German top-flight and secure a place in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Chelsea fans will hope that Werner can have a similar impact at Stamford Bridge in 2020-21, as Frank Lampard's side look to close the gap on Liverpool and City at the top of the Premier League.

Gundogan plays alongside the German forward at international level, and he is expecting him to make a big impact in English football.

"Believe me: Everyone at City knows about Timo Werner. Many of my team-mates asked what kind of guy he is. He deserves respect," the City midfielder told SportBild.

Chelsea are also in the market for another Germany star currently on the books at Bayer Leverkusen, with Goal reporting that they have opened talks with the Bundesliga outfit over a potential €76m (£69m/$90m) deal for Havertz.

Gundogan has also witnessed Havertz's talents in close quarters, and thinks he is already a better all-round player than former Blues midfielder Michael Ballack.

The City star said of the Leverkusen ace: "In my opinion, Havertz is even better than Ballack in terms of his playing ability. Ballack had a certain level of aggression in his game, and a strong mentality.

"He was a top player of the previous generation - a bastard on the pitch, in a positive sense. Kai isn’t like that."

Gundogan went on to discuss Leroy Sane's recent €49m (£44m/$58m) switch to Bayern Munich, predicting a bright future for his ex-City team-mate at Allianz Arena after admitting that he was aware of his impending departure for some time.

"The day before the move became official he confirmed it to me (that he was leaving). It didn’t shock me as I knew it was coming," the 29-year-old added.

"He’s not won any titles in Germany yet [which acted as a motivation to make the move] and I think he’ll do great things in the Bundesliga and help Bayern a lot."

Champions League Power Rankings: Who will take Liverpool's crown in Lisbon?

2020-08-05T05:01:00.001-07:00

Europe's premier club competition returns after five months away, with 12 teams still in with a chance of lifting the trophy in Portugal

After its unplanned, coronavirus-enforced hiatus, the Champions League is back this week.

The cream of Europe's crop are putting the finishing touches to their preparations, with 12 teams still in with a chance of succeeding Liverpool as the continent's best team.

Four last-16 ties are still to be completed before the quarter-finalists head to Lisbon for the final stages, all of which will be played as one-legged matches rather than the normal double-headers.

With the draw all mapped out, clubs know who their prospective opponents could be once they reach Portugal. But who are the favourites, and which teams still have work to do?

Goal has ranked the runners and riders to work out who is in the best shape to lift the famous trophy on August 23...

Though Frank Lampard would never admit it, Saturday's trip to Bayern Munich will likely be used as a post-season friendly for Chelsea as they wind down after a long, gruelling campaign.

Bayern's 3-0 win at Stamford Bridge means the tie is all but over already, and with injuries piling up for the Blues it is difficult to see them competing at the Allianz Arena.

They will, of course, be back in the Champions League next season, where they will try to improve what is likely to be an exit at the last-16 stage.

Ighalo: Forgotten Manchester United man needs Europa League to salvage season

2020-08-05T04:48:00.000-07:00

The on-loan frontman was seldom used in the Red Devils’ Premier League run-in, and could very well face the same issues in Europe

All the buzz that Odion Ighalo’s extended stay at Manchester United generated at the start of June has slowly faded in the last two months owing to the striker’s lack of appearances.

Having played a somewhat significant part in the FA Cup and Europa League before the lockdown, the Shanghai Shenhua loanee had little play time after the restart. The Nigerian got only 61 minutes on the pitch despite the intense scheduling in the Red Devils’ Premier League run-in, which may have disappointed supporters of the former Watford man.

In truth, while there was always the understanding that Ighalo wouldn’t be first choice, especially after Marcus Rashford’s return gave the team more attacking options, those willing the striker on hoped he’d get some time on the pitch given the frenzied run of matches.

Admittedly, he had barely featured in the Prem before football’s suspension in March but circumstances as regards scheduling of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team’s remaining nine games, played within five weeks from mid-June to late July, meant he was a viable option in some fixtures.

However, the ex-Nigeria frontman was at a disadvantage when it became obvious the club’s Norwegian boss was throwing all he had into Man United’s fight to end in the top four. This was ultimately accomplished as the red half of Manchester ended joint-third just above Chelsea on goal difference.

Piece on @GoalAfrica : Solskjaer's unwillingness to change a winning XI has put him in a tricky situation with Man United facing three games in six days.

So, will the United boss call on Ighalo to ease the burden or risk the Red Devils burning out?

Indeed, Solskjaer took huge risks choosing to start the same XI for five games on the trot against Sheffield United, Brighton & Hove Albion, Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Southampton, risking burnout in their run-in. Ighalo got cameos in four of those games, before being an unused substitute in the team’s 2-2 draw with the Saints at Old Trafford.

It was significant that in the quartet of brief appearances, United had established unassailable leads thus allowing the 1999 Champions League winner rest his key players. When the going got tough, however, he was reluctant to turn to the Nigerian and other fringe players indicating a worry in the drop-off in quality between the starters and substitutes.

The threat of fatigue told in their performances toward the end of the season as United tended to start slowly before their superior quality eventually saw them overpower the opposition. They conceded early against the Cherries before winning 5-2 and the woodwork saved them from falling behind at Villa Park in their 3-0 success.

They didn’t quite get lucky against Southampton while Crystal Palace were in the game at Selhurst Park in the opening exchanges, were hard done by as VAR ruled out Jordan Ayew’s equalizer in the 56th minute for the most marginal of offside calls before Anthony Martial made it 2-0 with 12 minutes to play.

Despite his side’s laboured showing vs the Eagles, Solskjaer’s lack of trust in Ighalo and co. on the bench was evident as he made only two changes all game. Still, the West African frontman was to endure the most painful snub days later in the FA Cup semi-final with Chelsea.

Having hinted with his changed line-up that a top four spot was the priority, the ex-United striker left the experienced forward out of the XI at Wembley, only introducing the 31-year-old 10 minutes from time. At the time, the Red Devils trailed 3-0 having just conceded the third but found a late consolation strike in the 3-1 defeat.

There was opprobrium directed at Ole in the media which seemed odd as the criticism didn’t seem nuanced enough to take into consideration that, despite the appeal of a trophy, ending in the Champions League positions was the main goal for the Red Devils.

Having missed out this season, the Manchester giants could ill-afford successive years outside the top four. Also, the Norwegian’s lack of rotation in previous games left him with little choice but to tweak his selection against Frank Lampard’s troops, who were at full strength.

Expectedly, Ighalo didn’t start against West Ham United and Leicester City. Regardless of an insipid showing against the Hammers, the ex-Super Eagle was uninvolved until the 85th minute as it ended 1-1 and didn’t get a look in against the Foxes till deep into second-half stoppage time.

In truth, that was par for the course given Solskjaer’s prime concern post-lockdown but his selections for the resumption of the Europa League will fascinate the average observer.

Again, the enforced change to the format of the competition may not necessarily be to Ighalo’s benefit. While he’s expected to start against LASK on Wednesday, where United already hold a 5-0 lead, the on-loan frontman may then be restricted to watching briefs as the team’s heavy-hitters are called upon in the latter stages of Europe’s second-tier competition.

Had the pandemic not disrupted the season, the Nigerian was likely to play a huge role as the Red Devils chased success in a competition they won in 2017. With the deviation from the usual weekend-Thursday-Sunday scheduling, replaced with this year’s tweaked design it remains to be seen if the Shanghai Shenhua loanee will play a leading role.

However, if Solskjaer takes an unexpected route with his selection and trusts Ighalo to lead the line in Europe, it’ll give the marginalised man a chance to rescue what was once an uplifting loan spell.

Osimhen, Mikel & Nigeria's biggest transfers of all time

2020-08-04T17:10:00.004-07:00

Following Napoli’s record transfer of the young forward, Goal consider other transfers of the nation’s top stars that got people talking

The astronomical rise of the prolific forward in the last 24 months has been immense. Having joined LOSC Lille following a successful spell at Belgian side Charleroi, the 21-year-old continued his fine form on his return to one of Europe’s top five leagues.

Osimhen was the French side’s top scorer with 13 Ligue 1 strikes in 27 games (18 in 38 in all competitions) before the top flight was halted.

Having had injuries threaten to derail his career in his time at Wolfsburg, the frontman would never have envisaged a situation where he’d be smashing the Nigerian transfer record with a move to Napoli for an initial fee of €50 million.

As protracted transfers go, Mikel’s move to Chelsea was controversial as they come. The midfielder had originally completed a move to Manchester United in 2005 and was pictured in the club’s strip before reneging on the decision to join the Red Devils.

After a year-long saga, which saw United report the Blues to Fifa, the West London club eventually paid the Manchester giants and Lyn Oslo £12 million and £4 million respectively in 2006.

Mikel had a long, successful career at Stamford Bridge, winning the Premier League as well as both domestic cups. He was also involved in the club’s incredible Champions League win in 2012 where he gave a man of the match performance in the success over Bayern Munich in the final.

Man Utd prepared to walk away from Sancho transfer with clubs apart on valuation

2020-08-04T16:54:00.003-07:00

The Borussia Dortmund winger remains a priority target for the Red Devils with negotiations continuing but there needs to be compromise on the fee

Manchester United will pursue other targets if they can’t agree a price with Borussia Dortmund for Jadon Sancho, with the two sides apart on their valuation.

The winger remains Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s top target this summer but Goal understands that the club will walk away from a deal if they can’t reach a realistic agreement over price.

It is understood the German side want €120 million (£108m/$142m) for the former Manchester City man but United are not willing to go near that fee with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic hitting the club.

Reports had widely suggested Sancho had already agreed personal terms with United but it is understood discussions are continuing and no terms have been agreed.

The club are still paying for the mistake they made when signing Alexis Sanchez and the impact his high salary had on the wage structure at the club. Consequently, any deal agreed with 20-year-old Sancho over wages would be with that in mind.

Solskjaer said in his press conference on Tuesday that the club would not be rushing transfers this summer. “This transfer window is a long one, every transfer takes its course. It is what it is,” the Norwegian said.

Dortmund have set their own deadline of August 10 in order to have their squad ready to start preparing for the new season but it is understood United will not be bound by the demands of the German side and if discussions - which are understood to be at an early stage - go beyond that date and the Bundesliga outfit won’t sell beyond that, then United will move on to other targets.

Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman is another player who Solskjaer is interested in and United could move their focus to either Coman or another alternative if they cannot come to an agreement with Dortmund.

Executive vice chairman Ed Woodward has warned for a while that it would not be business as usual during the current transfer window and while United are in a better position than many other clubs, it is understood they are still feeling the impact of the pandemic.

'Willian has two solid proposals from Premier League clubs' - Arsenal-connected Chelsea star to choose future when season closes, says Joorabchian

2020-07-28T05:34:00.001-07:00

The Brazilian midfielder will leave Stamford Bridge toward the finish of the period except if the Blues surrender to his agreement requests in the coming weeks

Willian will settle on a ultimate conclusion on his future when the season closes, as indicated by his operator Kia Joorabchian, who says the Chelsea star "has two solid proposals from Premier League clubs on the table".

Chelsea have apparently offered Willian the opportunity to broaden his stay at Stamford Bridge through to 2022, with his ebb and flow bargain set to terminate in August.

Nonetheless, the Brazil global is waiting for an additional year, and has clarified that he will move onto pastures new except if his requests are met.

The Brazilian midfielder will leave Stamford Bridge toward the finish of the period except if the Blues surrender to his agreement requests in the coming weeks

Chelsea have supposedly offered Willian the opportunity to broaden his stay at Stamford Bridge through to 2022, with his ebb and flow bargain set to lapse in August.

Nonetheless, the Brazil global is waiting for an additional year, and has clarified that he will move onto pastures new except if his requests are met.

He has included multiple times this season, and has helped Frank Lampard's side secure a best four Premier League finish while additionally arriving at the FA Cup last.

The Brazilian will probably be in dispute for a spot in Chelsea's crew by and by for the Wembley date on August 1, preceding center moves back to the Champions League.

The Blues are because of faced Bayern Munich in a most recent 16 second-leg tie at the Allianz Arena seven days after their conflict with Arsenal, where they will expect to upset a 3-0 shortfall.

Move news and gossipy Tidbits LIVE: Chelsea expect Willian to join Arsenal

2020-07-28T05:16:00.000-07:00

Brazilian set for Emirates switch

Chelsea are expecting Willian to join Arsenal on a free exchange toward the finish of the period - as indicated by The Guardian.

The 31-year-old is set to turn into a free operator in August, and he still can't seem to acknowledge the Blues' expressions over a potential agreement augmentation.

Chelsea have offered Willian another two-year bargain yet he's waiting for an additional year, and Arsenal are currently ready to dive for his mark.

Can Ziyech help Chelsea close the hole to Liverpool?

2020-07-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

While cautious issues stay a bogeyman, players like the Morocco star could let Frank Lampard go head to head with the bosses next season

Minutes before Liverpool scored their fifth objective through Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the last 10 minutes against Chelsea on Wednesday, cameras got Frank Lampard grinning at the exciting idea of the challenge at Anfield.

The evening of the Reds' royal celebration, the experience on Merseyside was without a doubt a fitting exhibition, finishing 5-3 to Jurgen Klopp's men. By all accounts, any spectator would state the recently delegated champions merited the three focuses, and possibly they did yet the Chelsea point of view to occasions at Anfield might be fairly clashing.

Lampard's side got themselves 3-0 down and 4-1 down at various focuses versus the title holders in a game where they could likely feel hard done by with the conclusive outcome, given the parity of play.

In reality, particularly in the initial half, where Chelsea pretty much coordinated the home side, almost no isolated the pair right off the bat, so the guests were heartbreaking to by one way or another get themselves three objectives down following 43 minutes.

It might be pretentious to state singular splendor was the distinction between the groups, however assaulting greatness surely played its part for the hosts. Their first was a staggering Naby Keita strike, who proceeded with his urging exhibitions present lockdown on score his first Premier League objective since December, while the second was a splendid free-kick from Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The full-in those days selected Roberto Firmino with a pin-point cross for the 2019 Champions League victors' fourth.

Balance this with Lampard's men, who were predominant in the initial trades and got into promising positions just to be let somewhere near helpless completing, their dynamic or inability to execute the last ball.

This was clear as Mason Mount botched a respectable chance in the eighth moment, or when Willian neglected to control a heaved Marcos Alonso through-ball which would have placed him in on objective. Later in the a large portion of, the previous at that point neglected to choose Olivier Giroud with a cross from the left flank in this manner neglecting to set up an obvious possibility on a plate for his frontman like TAA accomplished for Firmino in the second-half.

As per Understat, the Expected Goals detail toward the finish of the game read 1.45 to 2.38, yet, by one way or another, Liverpool scored multiple times because of their savage proficiency alongside protective howlers from the guests.

Without a doubt, this was the topic in everything except one of the four experiences between the two sides this season. Klopp's group won three of the installations however never really defeated the West London side who coordinated them over the gatherings, just to be finished by the prevalent specialized nature of the six-time European victors just as their cautious frailties.

Singular brightness to a great extent settled about all the fights, and keeping in mind that Lampard might be yet to address the auxiliary issues in his side's cautious third, the signings of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner implies they conceivably have assailants who can create snapshots of creativity.

The marking of the playmaker from Ajax has apparently opened up additional opportunities for a Chelsea side who have discontinuously come up short on the front line in the last third this season.

Ziyech not just has an eye to recognize the last ball yet his execution is generally on target too, which looks good for the 2019 Europa League champs.

In spite of fundamentally being a maker, the Morocco star scores blinders from range or intense edges, confirm by this current season's splendid strikes in the Champions League against Valencia and a free-kick against the club he's presently joined which went in off Kepa Arrizabalaga in a super 4-4 draw.

The midfield playmaker's inclination for turning up in defining moments was additionally vital in a year ago's UCL run against Real Madrid just as Juventus, before enduring end on account of Tottenham Hotspur.

He contributed three objectives and two aids those ties, with two strikes coming in the colossally great accomplishment over Los Blancos, a help against the Old Lady and an objective and aid the semi-last destruction by Spurs.

It's been some time since the Stamford Bridge outfit marked a tasteful maker fit for unpicking the resistance while hitting the rear of the net every now and then.

A contention can be made that Juan Mata's marking from Valencia in 2011 was the last time the three-time Premier League champions got somebody fit for delivering snapshots of imagination in the last third reliably.

The appearance of the capable Christian Pulisic, who was extraordinary in his half-hour appearance on Wednesday, has been promising for Lampard's men this year and the possibility of hitting up an organization with the club's new purchases is surely heavenly.

While issues at the back persevere, the nearness of a midfield dissident like Ziyech, fit for making a hare appear out of nowhere, and built up goalscorer like Werner recommends the Blues could at any rate be increasingly certain on the off chance that they intend to remain audacious against the victors when they clash next season.

Regardless of whether those two signings alone will carry the Blues nearer to the undisputed heroes in the table or even observe them usurp Klopp's charges, however, stays begging to be proven wrong.

Hughton to take Bristol City post

2020-07-23T16:53:00.001-07:00

Chris Hughton will be affirmed as the new chief of Championship side Bristol City this end of the week, the Daily Mail reports.

The previous Newcastle, Birmingham and Norwich chief has been out of the game since being sacked by Brighton toward the finish of last season.

Bristol City completed twelfth in the second level this season, seven focuses off the play-off positions.

Move news and gossipy tidbits LIVE: Dortmund prepared to sell £55m Man Utd target Sancho

2020-07-23T16:48:00.000-07:00

Man Utd to begin offering at £55m

Borussia Dortmund feel the best an ideal opportunity to sell Jadon Sancho could be this mid year, as per the Independent.

The Bundesliga side accept the exchange market could empty in the coming seasons, which means Sancho is at his pinnacle esteem at this moment.

Manchester United could hence begin offering for him around the £55 million ($70m) mark, with additional items taking an all out arrangement past £80m ($102m)

Fabinho's home burgled as Liverpool star observed Premier League title

2020-07-23T16:35:00.001-07:00

The midfielder was the survivor of a thievery on Wednesday, with various adornments things and a vehicle taken from the Brazilian's home

Liverpool star Fabinho's house was burgled on Wednesday night as the Brazilian and his partners praised the Reds' first-since forever Premier League title.

The midfielder's house was focused on while he and his family were away, with the break-in answered to have happened between 3pm BST on Wednesday evening and 4am BST on Thursday morning.

That period would concur with the time Fabinho spent at Anfield, as Liverpool beat Chelsea 5-3 preceding starting their Premier League trophy festivity.

Fabinho began and played every one of the hour and a half for the Reds on Wednesday, with players' families additionally allowed to be in participation for the festivals after the match.

Police have since affirmed that various gems things and a dark Audi RS6 were taken in a thievery in Formby.

The Audi has since been recuperated as the vehicle was situated in Wigan not long after the thievery was found.

"Investigators in Sefton are engaging for data following a robbery in Formby," a police representative told the Liverpool Echo.

"Police were called to a location in the early hours of at the beginning of today (Thursday, 23 July), when the tenants went into their home to discover it had been burgled.

"Nobody was in the property at the hour of the episode however it was thought the thievery happened at some point between 3pm on Wednesday, 22 July and 4am on Thursday, 23 July.

"Various gems things were taken, nearby a dim Audi RS6, which has since been recuperated in the Wigan territory.

"The house and vehicle have been forensically inspected by Crime Scene Investigators and CCTV enquiries in the zone are on-going.

"Investigators would ask any individual who has any data about this episode, particularly any individual who was in the territory and may have run cam film which shows a dark Audi RS6 to get in contact. DM @MerPolCC or call 101 citing reference 188 of 23 July. You can likewise contact @CrimestoppersUK secretly on 0800 555 111."

Fabinho is the most recent Liverpool star to be the survivor of a theft, with Sadio Mane seeing his home focused during a conflict with Bayern Munich last season .

Dejan Lovren, Roberto Firmino, Pepe Reina, Daniel Agger and Jerzy Dudek have likewise been focused by thieves as of late.

Liverpool have one last match staying in their Premier League season, with the Reds set to visit Newcastle on Sunday to polish off their title-winning effort.

Ronaldo turns out to be first player to score 50 Premier League, La Liga and Serie An objectives

2020-07-20T15:21:00.001-07:00

The Portuguese's second-half punishment against Lazio likewise observed him become the quickest player to arrive at 50 years of completions for a long time

Cristiano Ronaldo has kept in touch with himself into the history books by and by after the Juventus striker turned into the main player to score 50 objectives in the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A.

The Portuguese's second-half punishment finish against Lazio saw him clock up 50 years of objectives in the Italian first class since his appearance in Turin, furthermore turning into the quickest player to do as such since 1995.

What's more, the 35-year-old's changed over spot-kick implies that he has likewise equalled Giuseppe Signori's 1994-95 record for punishment objectives in a season, with 12 fruitful transformations from inside the zone.

Ronaldo joined Juventus in front of the 2018-19 crusade following the better piece of 10 years with Real Madrid, during which period he won practically every significant local respect and four Champions League titles.

Prior to that, he went through six years at Manchester United, where he at first fashioned his notoriety for being one of the world's most prominent players with a lady Ballon d'Or win in 2008 after the Red Devils' own European victories.

At the two clubs, he timed up a great number of objectives, with 118 of every 292 appearances for United and 450 out of 438 games for Madrid - and with his most recent take for the Bianconeri, he has indicated that his ability remains astonishingly flawless even as he moves toward the sundown of his vocation.

At worldwide level, Ronaldo lies one completion shy of a century altogether, with 99 objectives for Portugal over all rivalries, with just Iran's Ali Daei having surpassed his productive all out on the worldwide stage.

Juventus are pursuing another Serie A crown in what is administrator Maurizio Sarri's first battle in charge, however Lazio stay one of a bunch of sides breathing down their neck over the last a long time of what has been a particular season separated by a worldwide pandemic.

Five months after they were first planned to confront them in a second-leg experience at Allianz Stadium, the Bianconeri will hope to topple a 1-0 destruction against Lyon in the Champions League round-of-16 in the coming weeks, as they want to arrive at the opposition's dense finale in Lisbon.

Ighalo: Super Eagles despite everything need Manchester United star's understanding - Esin

2020-07-20T14:39:00.001-07:00

The 53-year-old feels the Red Devils striker despite everything has a ton to offer the national group and ought to be urged to come back aside

Previous Nigeria worldwide Etim Esin has encouraged the national group mentor Gernot Rohr to persuade Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo to end his universal retirement.

Ighalo reported his retirement from global obligation in the wake of helping the West Africans finish third at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where he rose as the opposition's top scorer.

The striker has proceeded with his amazing exhibitions with the Old Trafford outfit since joining the side in January from Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua.

The forward's attractive exhibitions as of late earned him a credit augmentation with the Red Devils until January 2021.

Esin, who couldn't understand why Ighalo, extraordinary compared to other Nigeria players, isn't right now in the national group, feels the forward ought to be urged to come back to the Super Eagles.

He accepts the 31-year-old's experience will come off on the youthful players in the group like Lille's Victor Osimhen and Villarreal's winger Samuel Chukwueze.

"I think this is work for the mentor [Gernot Rohr], he's the one in control and he should attempt to persuade Ighalo to revoke his choice on retirement from the national group," Esin told the Punch.

"Ighalo's arrival to the Eagles will assist with boosting the certainty level of more youthful strikers in the group and this will help us going ahead.

"Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen and others would profit by his experience if the mentor brings him back.

"We ought to figure out how to tap from the assets we have in our grasp. Ighalo is probably the best striker we have today, Rohr ought to persuade him to return.

"By what method would nigeria be able to have a player in Manchester United and he isn't in the national group? Playing in a world class group like Manchester United alone is an encounter all alone.

"Would we like to squander all that? It isn't right. He needs to impart his experience to youthful strikers in the group. That is the manner by which a group develops. This is the place the mentor needs to come hard and fast and urge him to assist the group with his experience."

Before stopping the Super Eagles, Ighalo, who made his introduction against Uganda in 2015, scored 16 objectives in 35 appearances for the three-time African bosses.

Esin, who was nicknamed 'Maradona' after the amazing Argentina star during his playing years, played for Iwuanyanwu Nationale, Flash Flamingoes, Calabar Rovers, Gent, Lokeren, Lierse SK, Kayserispor and Eagle Cement before his sudden retirement.

Xhaka turnaround can be an example to Ozil and Guendouzi, says Arteta

2020-07-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

The Arsenal chief accepts the Swiss midfielder's resurgence at the Emirates Stadium shows any player can turn their vocation around with the Gunners

Mesut Ozil and Matteo Guendouzi ought to follow Granit Xhaka's model on the off chance that they need to spare their Arsenal professions, Mikel Arteta has said.

Shunned Gunners pair Ozil and Guendouzi have been left outwardly glancing in as Arsenal have appreciated a resurgence under Arteta, who has guided the club to six successes in their past eight games.

That run included consecutive triumphs over Premier League champions Liverpool and afterward Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-finals a week ago, with Xhaka uplifting in the two games.

It is a long ways from early November - right around two months before Arteta showed up as lead trainer - when Xhaka's future at Emirates Stadium looked depressing after he was deprived of the captaincy having responded furiously to fans who booed him when he was subbed.

"The test with Granit was to persuade him that there was as yet a spot for him here - that I had huge faith in him and that things can pivot before long in this industry," Arteta told journalists in front of Tuesday's Premier League conflict with Aston Villa.

"He needed to send the correct messages. As a matter of first importance, he needed to accept that he could do it and if that was the situation, we were going to help him completely through.

"I'm extremely happy to hear and detect the response from the fans towards him, I figure they can acknowledge what he's finished. That is previously, there's a ton of positives to take from troublesome circumstances and we as a whole gain from that.

"He's a great model for any player that is in a troublesome second that in the event that you are willing, predictable and truly need to do it for the most part, I believe there's consistently a path back."

Ozil has not been included since March, before rivalries were ended as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, while individual midfielder Guendouzi has not been found in an Arsenal shirt since standing up to Brighton and Hove Albion players in a 2-1 misfortune on June 20.

Asked whether Xhaka could be viewed for instance for those two specifically, Arteta answered: "That applies for any player, and any individual from the staff.

"On the off chance that you truly show that, at that point you're choosing to do the best, not for yourself, however for the group and for the club, I figure everyone will invite you.

"It's not simply me that needs to give the green light. It's everyone that must be strong and you have to feel also that help from everyone in such a case that not it's an entirely awkward circumstance."

There is comparable vulnerability about Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's future with Arsenal, however not on the grounds that he is undesirable by Arteta, who is certain the player will sign new terms.

The Gabon striker is out of agreement toward the finish of next season and Arteta is sharp for the 31-year-old's future to be settled soon as he pushes on with move plans.

"With Auba, I think I've been extremely clear with what I need - the snappier we do it, for me by and by, the better on the grounds that the player will be progressively centered, increasingly decided, increasingly quiet," he included. "In any case, we need to regard the timings also and the implies that the football club has."

From absolute bottom to FA Cup finalists - Arteta's Arsenal upset ousts Man City

2020-07-18T15:11:00.001-07:00

The Gunners booked their spot in their 21st FA Cup last with a 2-0 win against Pep Guardiola's holders

There's only something about Arsenal and the FA Cup.

Mikel Arteta's side showed up at Wembley with close to nobody giving them a possibility against Manchester City, yet it's the Gunners and not Pep Guardiola's men who will return one month from now for the last after a marvelous 2-0 win.

This was a triumph that came directly from the preparation ground, one in which each and every player had their impact. Fortune may have supported Arsenal when they saw off heroes Liverpool in midweek, however they merited all that they got at Wembley on Saturday evening.

Strategically, Arteta got it spot on. It was a success which featured why, after the dim days of the main portion of the period, there is genuine reason for good faith now in north London.

On numerous occasions we've seen Arsenal sides give in even with unrivaled groups. Since beating City here in the 2017 semi-last they've played them multiple times, losing each of the seven, yielding 20 and scoring only two

In any case, they shrugged that record aside to book their spot in what will be the club's 21st FA Cup last, where they all meet either Chelsea or Manchester United on August 1.

It's been a frightful season for Arsenal on occasion, one of the most exceedingly terrible in late memory. The reality they dipped under Burnley in the Premier League table minutes before kick-off said everything.

In any case, the previous week has demonstrated that, under Arteta, there is promising finish to the present course of action.

As far as quality, the hole between themselves, Liverpool and City is immense. It's been obvious to see over the two games in the previous not many days. However, the indications of progress under Arteta are irrefutable.

Furthermore, while they were talented their objectives against Liverpool in midweek, at Wembley they earned them through breathtaking moves which City had no response for. Both were scored by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, his 24th and 25th of the period, however both originated from moves that began somewhere inside their own half.

The principal came following 19 minutes and was done by Aubameyang after a move which began with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, and highlighted 18 passes and included 10 of Arsenal's 11 players.

Eight of the passes were really made in Arsenal's own punishment territory as they sucked City in before springing forward on the counterattack. Alexandre Lacazette, who was great all through, discovered Nicolas Pepe, who chose Aubameyang impeccably at the back post to score.

It was a great objective and the 25 minutes which followed up to half-time were the best Arsenal have created under Arteta since he showed up in December. Protectively, they were sublime, with Martinez not making a solitary spare, and going ahead they created some fantastic blends, with the last ball every one of that was deficient.

The inescapable attack from City came in the subsequent half and in past gatherings Arsenal would have collapsed. Be that as it may, not on Saturday night. Granit Xhaka and Dani Ceballos were radiant before a barrier marshaled magnificently by David Luiz, dropping in and offering genuine insurance.

City commanded ownership, yet just marshaled one shot on track - with Martinez sparing admirably down to one side after Riyad Mahrez had cut inside and escaped.

And afterward on 71 minutes, Arsenal split away and put the game to sleep. Pepe was again included, pursuing down a freedom before discovering Kieran Tierney. The Scotland global recognized Aubameyang's run and there was just a single result once the Gabon worldwide had ran clear.

City attempted to raise themselves yet proved unable. Cross after cross came in, yet Luiz managed everything that came his direction and anything that skirted the Brazilian was gathered by Martinez.

City were all around beaten at long last. Out-battled on the pitch and out-thought off it. This might be Arsenal's most exceedingly terrible alliance season in 25 years, however without precedent for quite a while they appear as though they have an arrangement.

They hit absolute bottom during the last a long time of Unai Emery. The long excursion back towards the top appears as though it has started.

Siobhan Chamberlain leaves Manchester United by common assent

2020-07-15T03:56:00.002-07:00

Chamberlain: "In 2005, playing for Manchester United was a fantasy. Dreams can work out as expected."

Siobhan Chamberlain is leaving Manchester United in the wake of consenting to end her agreement by shared assent, the club have declared.

The goalkeeper joined United from Liverpool in July 2018 for their debut season in the Women's Championship and proceeded to show up.

She showed up in a League Cup coordinate against her previous club a month in the wake of doing the switch and quickly a short time later made her association debut in a 12-0 win over Aston Villa.

Chamberlain, 36, was a key piece of the side that proceeded to win the Championship in their first season playing in every one of the 18 matches.

She has shown up for England since 2004 and was a piece of the group that arrived at the World Cup semi-finals in 2015. Her 50th top came in the 2018 SheBelieves Cup.

Chamberlain, who brought forth her girl in January, composed on her blog that she would now "set aside some effort to think about the subsequent stages in my profession".

"At the point when I discovered I was pregnant in 2019, I realized I wasn't prepared to get done with playing, battling to get once more into the crew at United was my whole center," she said.

"Notwithstanding, life and football infrequently follow the ideal way, I feel my profession for club and nation is the case of that. Be that as it may, the one thing that is driven me all through my whole profession isn't surrendering.

"I had been to four significant competitions with England more than 11 years before making my competition debut in 2015. I had a lot of chances to surrender preceding that. I didn't.

"I have adored each moment of my time as a Manchester United player yet after conversations with Casey we both concurred that currently was the perfect time for me to proceed onward and set aside effort to think about the following stages in my profession.

"I am glad that we as a gathering of players have composed a part in this extraordinary club's history. The fate of this club is in incredible hands with Casey and I have almost certainly that trophies and achievement are not far away.

"I can't thank the fans enough for their help. The help for me as a player and the affection and benevolence appeared to me in turning into a mother, it makes being a ladies' footballer uncommon. Ladies' football needs your energy.

"In 2005, playing for Manchester United was a fantasy. Dreams can work out as expected."

Head coach Casey Stoney added: "I want to thank Siobhan for her time with us. Aside from her obvious goalkeeping abilities she has been an incredible leader and role model within the team, and a fantastic mentor to the talented young goalkeepers we have at United.

"On a personal level, I have played with Siobhan for a number of years at various clubs and also with the national team. We've shared so many experiences together and I consider her a friend.

Kai Havertz: Chelsea top picks to sign Bayer Leverkusen midfielder

2020-07-09T16:02:00.001-07:00

Havertz needs to leave Leverkusen and the German club are set up to permit his exit.

Chelsea are the top choices to sign Kai Havertz from Bayer Leverkusen this mid year, yet are not ready to follow through on the £90m asking cost.

Havertz needs to leave Leverkusen and the German club are set up to permit his exit. The 21-year-old has just two years staying on his agreement and Leverkusen have neglected to meet all requirements for next season's Champions League.

The Bundesliga side worth Havertz at €100m (£90m) yet his agents are cheerful an arrangement can be organized with extra installments and additional items that would fulfill all gatherings.

Chelsea have just indicated they are set up to put resources into the exchange advertise this mid year by marking Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech for next season.

Blues proprietor Roman Abramovich is happy to bankroll moves this late spring as he accepts there is more an incentive in the market, with costs dropping due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Chelsea have just scorched Havertz's Germany colleague Timo Werner from RB Leipzig in front of next season

Chelsea's opponents may likewise battle to contend in the market, with the European Club Association assessing European clubs will lose more than £3.5 billion in income throughout the following year in view of the pandemic.

Genuine Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich likewise need Havertz yet they are not in a situation to follow through on Leverkusen's asking cost without selling players. Manchester United are likewise intrigued yet their need marking this mid year is Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund.

Paul Pogba: Manchester United supervisor Ole Gunnar Solskjaer cheerful midfielder will sign new agreement

2020-07-09T15:44:00.001-07:00

Pogba: "Simply being back preparing, contacting the ball and doing what I love is astonishing. I missed it so much"; Watch Aston Villa versus Manchester United live on Sky Sports Premier League from 8pm on Thursday; kick-off 8.15pm

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is confident Paul Pogba will sign another Manchester United agreement and assume a significant job in the club's future achievement.

Pogba has for some time been connected with a transition to Real Madrid or previous side Juventus, and even conceded himself a year ago that he was searching for "another test" in his vocation.

The France World Cup champ showed up in all rivalries during a physical issue hit season before the coronavirus lockdown, yet his arrival to wellness and structure since football continued a month ago has started trust among numerous supporters that he could remain at United past the momentum crusade.

Having as of late marked individual midfielders Nemanja Matic and Scott McTominay to new arrangements, United supervisor Solskjaer is idealistic the club can likewise make sure about the drawn out administrations of Pogba - whose current agreement is expected to lapse one year from now, albeit United do have the choice of setting off a one-year augmentation.

"I can't remark on conversations among players and the club obviously we need to keep the best players," Solskjaer said.

"We need to manufacture a crew for the future and Scott and Nemanja, they're in comparable positions yet in various phases of their vocations - one toward the beginning and one truly experienced one.

"We likewise need players in that mid-go gathering so ideally we can accomplish something. I realize that since Paul returned from injury he's looking better and better. He's simply making the most of his football and we should see where it takes us."

Is Napoli the correct goal for popular Osimhen?

2020-07-09T02:49:00.002-07:00

It presently appears to be unavoidable that the Nigeria universal will move to Naples this mid year, yet it is in no way, shape or form certain it is the correct goal

You would have gotten one in a million chances on the main genuine exchange adventure of the late spring including a Nigerian player...but here we are.

There is one thing that is thought about Victor Osimhen without a doubt. He won't start the 2020/21 season with Lille, or in Ligue 1 so far as that is concerned. Les Dogues have a model that is relied on purchasing low and selling high, and have purportedly started to get ready for a future without their looked for after number nine.

Where will he play at that point?

Right now, Napoli hold the best hand. They got Osimhen in Naples a week ago, apparently to pound out close to home terms, however as a major aspect of an appeal hostile. Being a showbiz man, president Aurelio De Laurentiis knows some things about engaging in style.

But, questions remain. Not least for the player himself, who has recently communicated reverence for Chelsea, and is purportedly waiting for enthusiasm from the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur enquired, however were rebuked in the getting that, with Harry Kane as club chief and best option community forward, playing openings would be sparse. Reality, lamentable as it may be for Osimhen, is that none of England's top sides have a squeezing requirement for a beginning striker.

Accordingly, it appears to be just a short time before the exchange to Napoli at last gets over the line.

That intelligently prompts the following thought: exactly how great a move right?

All things considered, it relies upon what the records are. As far as history, Napoli is appealing, both as a home and a platform for various incredible players as the years progressed. Diego Maradona is the most clear one, however in any event, narrowing it down to simply strikers – Careca, Edinson Cavani, Gonzalo Higuain, Dries Mertens – drives one to finish up there is a fine custom there into which Osimhen can drench himself.

The club's profile in Europe is likewise entirely decent. Per Uefa's club coefficient, they are positioned sixteenth in Europe—simply outside the genuine world class, yet at the same time one of the heavyweights. Depend on it, there will be pressure at a club of this level, yet maybe not the cloying, meddling kind that is normal for any semblance of Barcelona and Manchester United, for example.

Napoli is additionally a club that has demonstrated an ability to grasp its own. All the previously mentioned advances referenced have delighted in practically supernatural applause in Naples, and Osimhen's sincere play, work rate and modesty would no uncertainty charm him to the Neapolitan group. "He will end up being their genius," Lille president Gerard Lopez told La Voix De Nord.

Saying this doesn't imply that it is all positive, obviously.

Notwithstanding a recovery under Gennaro Gattuso, the club won't play Champions League football in 2020/21. That is a long way from a major issue, yet it is a significant stage for the absolute best players in Europe, and one on which Osimhen as of now exceeded expectations with a puerile Lille side a year ago. In that sense, and that sense alone, the Europa League (on the off chance that they fit the bill for that) would speak to a genuine advance down.

There is additionally a worry over the proceeded with feasibility of the Napoli venture.

For all his great work up until this point, it is just difficult to precisely parse Gattuso's impact on the genuine mechanics of the group's play. Certainly, he has made them grittier and progressively strong protectively, and there appears to be a genuine calcification of their general mental way to deal with the game.

All things considered, a great deal of the play despite everything draws intensely because of previous director Maurizio Sarri. The blends are not as fresh, obviously, however the muscle memory stays, as does the framework.

What happens when that wears out?

The course of events for this is short as well, as a remake is hatching at Stadio San Paolo. Any semblance of Jose Callejon, Kalidou Koulibaly and Allan are set to leave; all were stalwarts under Sarri, saturated with his ways. Past the accompanying precariousness that is related with the procedure of a modify, this channel could uncover Gattuso's absence of an assaulting methodology much more.

A gander at the Expected Goals numbers for Serie An is uncovering: Napoli have a xG of 49.9, a count just sufficient for 6th in the association. With few(er) chances made comes more prominent weight on the inside forward to be great, barely an ideal circumstance for a youthful striker despite everything learning his specialty and making sense of how to best use his in fact extensive endowments.

It is a possibly tricky circumstance into which Osimhen would walk. Be that as it may, the 21-year-old is nothing if not tough; so far in his profession, he has demonstrated the ability to ascend to the level required, and the inclination to adapt rapidly. As Lopez stated, "Victor has the solidarity to perform under tension."

It is a quality he should bring in the event that he is to prevail in Italy. For all that Napoli are enchanted with him now, there are sufficient admonitions that propose it probably won't be plain cruising completely through.

Dortmund peering toward up conceivable Sancho substitutions on the off chance that Man Utd target leaves

2020-07-09T02:19:00.002-07:00

The German club yield that they should plunge into the exchange showcase if the England worldwide winger withdraws in the late spring.

Borussia Dortmund donning chief Michael Zorc says that the Bundesliga side are focusing on assaulting players as they get ready for the likelihood that Manchester United objective Jadon Sancho could leave.

Sancho has been intensely tipped to join Premier League mammoths United , while any semblance of Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid have likewise risen as potential goals.

Dortmund allegedly need around €120 million (£108m/$136m) for the England worldwide, who showed up from Manchester City in 2017.

Gotten some information about Sancho and a possible flight, Zorc told Kicker : "If Jadon left, we would accomplish something again in the hostile region.

"There are surely a couple of players we are focusing on."

Sancho scored 17 objectives and provided 16 helps as Dortmund completed second behind Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich this season.

The 20-year-old assailant scored 20 objectives over all rivalries in 2019-20 as he rose as one of Europe's most energizing youthful gifts.

Dortmund, then, are allegedly very nearly marking Birmingham City sensation Jude Bellingham in front of United.

"At the point when you don't have a tycoon or a state backing you up, at that point you should be cautious how you put away your cash," Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke is cited as telling Kicker.

"We don't have an end date for crown, without that we basically have no arranging security. Should we sell Sancho, at that point each player will cost €5-10m more. We don't have anything to part with."

While Manchester United have been firmly connected with a late spring move for Sancho, previous striker Dimitar Berbatov accepts the Red Devils needn't bother with further aggressors .

"Taking a gander at how the crew are getting along right now I don't think marking Sancho is fundamental," Berbatov told the Mirror .

"Take a gander at the front three from a few evenings ago, the speed of Martial, Rashford and Greenwood was extraordinary to watch, their connection up play was fabulous.

"Football is an interesting thing, you have an extraordinary youthful player in Sancho, and yet you have an incredible youthful player in Greenwood.

"Joined need to address on the off chance that they are prepared to forfeit and end the advancement of Greenwood, one of their own, to bring Sancho in. They could have both and pivot them two, yet Martial and Rashford."

Lampard: Kante may have to change the way he trains to stay injury-free at Chelsea

2020-07-08T12:30:00.002-07:00

The Blues boss had used his World Cup-winning midfielder in every minute of every game since the restart - before he went down injured against Watford

Frank Lampard thinks N'Golo Kante might have to change the way he manages himself after a spate of injuries this season has often left him unavailable for selection.

The 29-year-old had been the only Chelsea player to line up for every minute of his side's return since the coronavirus-enforced stoppage in the Premier League.

However, he is now out of the upcoming trip to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace, while he is also unlikely to be fit to face Sheffield United at the weekend.

After his fourth injury of the season, Lampard explained how Kante might need to adjust his preparations as he gets into the senior stages of his playing career.

“Take the small injury he has now out of it slightly, because all players can get that in this period because we’re asking a lot of them in games,” Lampard said in a press conference on Zoom.

“The story of the season being he had a pretty bad injury in the Europa League final and when we came back for pre-season, I wasn’t sure what the situation was and it turned out he wasn’t near fit with that injury.

“And now we end up with a slight domino effect that took us through the season which means he played pretty much fifty per cent of the games as we went into lockdown. I like to think that we’re through that patch and that this injury now is pretty unrelated.

"One of the things that looks different for me is that when you do get a few injuries, when you are in your mid-twenties you see things differently and you have to maintain yourself slightly differently and N’Golo certainly buys into that and I think that will help too.”

Still, Lampard has a big squad to select from - and that's despite also seeing Mateo Kovacic miss out in midfield during the midweek round of fixtures.

Jorginho and Billy Gilmour are vying for a start as the latter is still yet to play a single minute since the restart in late June. Along with those two, Ross Barkley continues to be in a good run of form, adding goals and assists to his game.

Meanwhile, Mason Mount had success in Chelsea's 3-0 win over Watford in a more withdrawn role. Lampard spoke of how he makes decisions on his midfield and praised Mount's ability to both attack and defend well.

“I spoke of it the other night after the game about teams with low blocks who make it difficult for you,” the head coach added.

“To be able to get players who can arrive with technical ability high up the pitch and around the box and find a pass and take someone out of the game with a skill or finish... It’s big in those games if we feel like we’re going to have a lot of control.

“Generally, with the midfield, I do like midfield players who can perform, not all the roles but can play high, can play on the side, can do the defensive duties and Mason really has that.

“His work off the ball is fantastic for us and if I feel like getting him high up the pitch to put more pressure on the other team if they want to play out, that can help us off the ball.

“Sometimes I’ll ask him to do a slightly different role with the ball where he comes deeper to make sure he’s not missing out on the ball because he’s a good player and needs to be on the ball deeper. Himself and Ross [Barkley] can perform that kind of role.

“Kovacic can perform that kind of role. Ruben Loftus-Cheek can perform that kind of role. N’Golo Kante can perform that kind of role. Billy Gilmour can. Jorginho also can but his role predominantly in his career has been from a deeper position.

“I had those good problems within the team. I like to work on the midfield, making it as fluid as it possibly can be so we give teams problems.

“Some performances recently, Watford being one the other day, Everton before lockdown I saw a real fluid movement of the midfield which I really liked. We have to continue to work on that.”

'Neymar, Mbappe, Greenwood' - Berbatov names three stars who could emulate Messi & Ronaldo

2020-07-08T12:21:00.001-07:00

The Bulgarian was full of praise for the Juventus forward and identified the players who are set to be at the top of the world game in the future

Dimitar Berbatov has mentioned Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Mason Greenwood as the players who could potentially emulate Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the future.

The duo, who have shared 11 Ballon d'Or awards between them and are widely considered two of the greatest players to have ever played the game, are both now in their 30s and may not be far off the end of their respective careers.

Paris Saint-Germain duo Mbappe and Neymar have long been touted as having the potential to be world football's two biggest stars when Ronaldo and Messi decide to call it quits, with both having arrived at the French club for enormous transfer fees.

And Berbatov also mentioned Greenwood, who has burst onto the scene at Manchester United and been one of the club's best players since the Premier League restart, as being another who could one day reach the very highest level.

When asked about his former team-mate at Old Trafford, Berbatov told Betfair. "On Friday, it will be two years since my former team-mate, Cristiano Ronaldo signed for Juventus.

"No one can say Cristiano hasn't been amazing in Italy, especially considering his age. He's 35 now, oh my God, most players have dropped a level by now, what he's still doing is unbelievable.

"He takes care of himself very well, probably better than he ever has, because at that age you need to work harder to stay in good shape. Messi and Ronaldo, we need to treasure them, because when it's over, it's over. They have been more than special.

"It will be one of the saddest days in world football when Ronaldo finishes playing, even those who dislike him will appreciate him. The day will come, but hopefully not for some time yet. When he's finished, other players will come, even Pele and Maradona were eventually replaced - life is a circle.

"We have Neymar, Mbappe, Greenwood, and other young players that can hopefully reach the highs of Ronaldo and Messi, as unbelievable as that may seem."

On Ronaldo's impact on the global game, with the 35-year-old having earned a reputation as one of the greatest ever for his performances for United, Real Madrid and now Juventus, Berbatov added: "Real Madrid haven't been the same since he left.

"He was a huge part of the team. He scored so many goals it's scary, he won so many trophies, and when he left, there was a big hole from his absence. Madrid will move forward, and they already have done, but he's definitely still being missed over there.

"If, and when Messi leaves Barcelona, how do you fill that gap? They have to move forward, but in a different way.

"My favourite moment with Ronaldo was when I set him up for the easiest goal of his life, against West Ham. I was going to finish it myself, but I was feeling generous that day.

"We always saw how professional he was, we all wanted to work as hard as him, but that's why he achieved so much. All players can learn from each other, even if not by asking, just by observing.

"He was so good at an early age, he never needed advice. He always stayed after training to work hard which we all saw. We were lucky to be part of a team with him, [Ryan] Giggs, [Paul] Scholes, [Wayne] Rooney, [Gary] Neville, so many more, all the players could learn from each other."

Messi is so intelligent he could play for another five years, says Luis Garcia

2020-07-08T12:13:00.002-07:00

The Argentine celebrated his 33rd birthday in June but shows no signs of slowing down, having recently notched his 700th career goal

Lionel Messi could easily play for another five years at the highest level, according to former Liverpool and Barcelona midfielder Luis Garcia.

Messi's future has come under uncertainty again amid reports he wishes to leave Barca when his contract expires in 2021, although club president Josep Maria Bartomeu is confident the six-time Ballon d'Or winner wants to stay.

Messi will be 34 by the time his present contract runs out, but he remains La Liga's most imperious attacking player, with 22 goals and 19 assists placing him top of both rankings in 2019-20.

Garcia, who left Barca in 2004 to join Liverpool just as Messi was breaking into the first team at Camp Nou, says his ability to adapt will keep the Argentina star playing until he is close to 40 years old.

"Why not? The way he is playing, adapting his style to the game is impressive," said Garcia, courtesy of La Liga.

"Every year he shows us something different but keeps up the same amount of goals, of assists. Even getting more every year!

"He's adapting, he doesn't spend so much time up front because he knows it's harder, so he drops a little more.

"He shows why he's so intelligent. He adapts his game to what the team needs in every game.

"I could see him playing in 2025, easily!"

Manchester City are one of the clubs that have been mentioned as a possible destination for the Argentine as well as Messi's first club Newell's Old Boys, who lost him to Barca as a teenager.

“I’m not going to speak about transfers until the end of the season,” the former Barca boss affirmed.

“My wish is that Messi stays at Barcelona.”

Barcelona face a derby match with Espanyol on Wednesday knowing a win is crucial to their hopes of winning La Liga this season.

Quique Setien's side sit four points behind leaders Real Madrid, who boast the superior head-to-head record, with just four games remaining.

La Liga's pace-setters return to action on Friday, when they host Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Manchester City 5-0 Newcastle United: Silva sparkles against abject Magpies

2020-07-08T12:06:00.003-07:00

Manchester City set a new Premier League goalscoring record as they dismantled Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City put their defeat to Southampton behind them with a comprehensive 5-0 victory over Newcastle United on Wednesday.

The 1-0 loss at St Mary's Stadium was City's ninth of the Premier League season and left them a demoralising 23 points behind new champions Liverpool at the top.

That gap was closed back to 20 - while the distance to Chelsea in third was stretched to nine - as Pep Guardiola's side brushed aside Newcastle through goals from Gabriel Jesus, Riyad Mahrez, David Silva, Raheem Sterling and a Federico Fernandez own goal.

Newcastle were happy to cede possession and keep their defensive block in place, but the game plan was undone just 10 minutes in when Jesus finished from David Silva's cut-back after some slack marking.

The visitors were unable to cope with City's high press and, when they lost the ball again 35 yards out, De Bruyne ran onto Phil Foden's simple pass and squared for Mahrez to side-foot home.

That goal meant City became the first team to have five players hit 10 goals in a single Premier League season and there should have been another when Jonjo Shelvey gave up possession but Foden shot wide.

Foden somehow prodded wide with the goal gaping soon after the restart, but City had only to wait until the 58th minute for their third goal, Matt Ritchie kicking the ball in off Fernandez while trying to stop Jesus.

Silva made it 4-0 with a precise free-kick from 25 yards out, the disjointed Newcastle wall summing up the Magpies' scant overall resistance, and the Spaniard set up substitute Sterling for a simple fifth after intercepting a pass.

What does it mean? City consolidate second... and wonder why

City's latest goalscoring record took them to 86 in the league this season, 14 more than leaders Liverpool, but did little more than make finishing second almost certain.

The kind of attacking interplay and unshakeable dominance of the game against Newcastle only adds to the bemusement as to how they have lost nine times and let Jurgen Klopp's side have such a simple time of things in the title race.

It was a first league loss for Steve Bruce's side since February 22, keeping them six points outside of the top eight but comfortably 16 clear of the drop zone.

Silva still shining as City clock winds down

Silva got his ninth and 10th assists of the season in all competitions and a sublime goal to cap a typically creative, stylish performance. Surprisingly, it was the first time he had scored and set up a goal in a league match since January 2016.

He has just two more home league games to come as a City player. It is a shame they will be held without the crowd ovation he deserves.

Krafth work strikes a sour note

Newcastle's 4-5-1 shape was never likely to work if the players were so quick to lose focus. The first-half goals both came from the position Emil Krafth should have been occupying, although he was given next to no protection out wide by DeAndre Yedlin and Valentino Lazaro.

What's next?

City head to Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, the same day Newcastle face a Watford side still fighting for Premier League survival.