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Rodgers lost the plot and must be charged for referee outburst at Man City

2013-12-27T10:22:00.002-08:00

On a pretty mad Boxing Day it was disappointing to see Liverpool turning nasty as they strived to stay top of the most competitive league I can ever remember.
Traveling to Manchester City this season has been a pointless exercise for all teams and so when you start well and have a perfectly good goal disallowed for offside there are grounds for complaint.
However, from 1-0 up Liverpool capitulated as all before them had done but employed some dark tactics during and after the game.

Outburst: Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers appeared to blame referee Lee Mason for his side's defeat

Keep a lid on it: Jordan Henderson vented his frustrations at referee Lee Mason and his assistant

As usual Luis Suarez was the main culprit on the pitch, going to ground very easily to win free kicks or even a penalty that Liverpool's approach play deserved but could not achieve.
Glen Johnson resorted to an ugly kick at Aleksandar Kolarov as the full back advanced down the pitch away from him – a really cynical challenge.
Worse was to follow as Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers appeared to take leave of his senses and blame the referee, Lee Mason, for the defeat and suggest that where Mason lives was a factor.
There was no mention of Simon Mignolet allowing soft goal to creep in, or Raheem Sterling missing a sitter to make it 2-2 and nor should there be that kind of criticism in public.

Rodgers blasts 'horrendous' Greater Manchester officials

Going down: Luis Suarez felt he warranted a penalty following a tackle by Man City defender Joleon Lescott

The same must apply with regards to the integrity of the match officials. Mason had a reasonable game, although he was far too lenient on the open and obvious shirt pulling at set pieces; he is not alone in doing that.
Martin Skrtel was outrageous on many occasions merely wrestling his opponent and showing no interest in the ball and for Rodgers to highlight one pull on Suarez was the kind of bias he inferred Mason showed throughout the game because he lives in Bolton.
Referees declare any club they cannot referee impartially every season and in these sensitive times of match fixing the authorities check that list carefully.
That Mason lives close to Manchester is not coincidence as the PGMOL regularly try and keep referees and particularly those with young families, relatively close to home on Boxing Day.
I am afraid Rodgers lost the plot, as so many do when striving to achieve against established teams which is a real pity given the excellent progress he has made with Liverpool.
The FA must charge him and worse could follow. He is up against Chelsea and Jose Mourinho next and if anyone can exploit a weakness it is the Portuguese.

Young Villains were queuing up to kick Januzaj, blasts United boss Moyes

2013-12-15T14:03:00.003-08:00

Manchester United manager David Moyes has called for more protection for Adnan Januzaj after accusing Aston Villa's players of queuing up to kick the youngster in Sunday's 3-0 win at Villa Park.
Danny Welbeck's first-half brace and Tom Cleverley's first Premier League goal in nearly a year were enough for United to stave off the threat of a hat-trick of defeats.

Rough and tumble: Manchester United's Adnan Januzaj (left) goes down under the challenge from Aston Villa's Yacouba Sylla (centre)

Darren Fletcher's return after almost a year out with a chronic bowel complaint put further shine on an impressive day for the visitors.
But Moyes was not happy at the treatment Januzaj received from the home players, and fears the 18-year-old is going to get injured if something is not done to prevent the rough-house tactics.
'Just a bit,' said Moyes, when asked if he felt Januzaj was being kicked.
'In every game, I don't know how many tackles there have been on him.
'That is why I am annoyed with fourth officials and referees. He is definitely not getting protected and before you know it the boy will get a sore one.
'It is terrible what they (the officials) are allowing to go on at the moment. They (opposition players) are queuing up to see who can kick him next.

Villa sandwhich: Januzaj is blocked by Yacouba Sylla (left) and Nathan Baker

Not impressed: Manchester United manager David Moyes

'(Matthew) Lowton was booked but there were that many tackles on him from different players.
'It is a recurring theme and it's the referees' job to sort it out. You would hope they would recognise that.
'Adnan will just get up, walk away and get on with it. That is one of his biggest attributes.'
Not surprisingly, Villa boss Paul Lambert rejected the assertion of his team being over-physical.
'My team are not a physical team,' said the Scot.
'We are a young side and maybe sometimes over exuberance gets the better of them but I have never sent anyone out to kick them.'
It was Januzaj's bullet header that provided the rebound for Welbeck to tap United in front.
The England striker, selected in the absence of Robin van Persie, was netting for the first time in the Premier League since the opening day of the season and quickly added another when he swept home Antonio Valencia's cross.
'It is really important for Danny,' said Moyes.

Pivotal: Januzaj's header rebounded off the post for Danny Welbeck to score the opening goal

'He is a forward and he needs to get himself goals. He got two poacher types today and he could have had had another.
'With Robin out he stepped up to the mark. When you get opportunities, you show what you can do. Danny certainly did that.'
There was never any doubt over the outcome once Cleverley had struck from Wayne Rooney's lay-off, allowing Moyes to end Fletcher's near 12-month absence with a chronic bowel complaint, that has plagued him for almost three years.
'If anybody returns from an illness to play professional football on this kind of stage for a club like Manchester United, it shows a lot about the boy himself,' said Moyes.
'He has had to be on his own, he has been in and out of hospital, he has had operations.
'Today was a big message to a lot of people - keep believing.
'If you are not well then keep believing that you can get yourself right.'

Welcome back: Darren Fletcher made his first appearance for almost a year

Fletcher declared himself satisfied at his comeback.
'I always believed I would come back,' he told MUTV.
'Other people around me were trying to make me think otherwise, but I stayed strong and believed I would get back.
'Playing a game like that, and getting an ovation like that, makes it all worthwhile.'
Lambert was less pleased, with striker Christian Benteke a particular disappointment as his run without a goal reached 10 games.
'He will come through it,' said Lambert.
'His endeavour was there. He is not getting the breaks he had last year but he will go through stages like this in his career.

Determine not to quit! Villas-Boas takes responsibility as Liverpool mauling sparks fresh speculation over his future as Spurs boss

2013-12-15T14:02:00.001-08:00

Andre Villas-Boas has pledged not to resign as Tottenham manager despite overseeing Spurs' heaviest-ever home league defeat to Liverpool.
The under-fire Tottenham boss did, however, admit he did not know how much longer the club would give him to turn their season around.
Villas Boas said he has never faced a worse home loss in his career than the 5-0 Barclays Premier League drubbing at the hands of Brendan Rodgers' rampant Reds.

Glum: Andre Villas-Boas looks on his side are thumped 5-0 by Liverpool

Delight: Luis Suarez, captain for the day, celebrates after scoring the goal which set Liverpool on their way

Villas-Boas said he has no scheduled meeting with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, but claimed there is no problem with Spurs' board.
Liverpool captain Luis Suarez ran wild at White Hart Lane, scoring twice and having a hand in the goals for Jordan Henderson, John Flanagan and Raheem Sterling.
Villas-Boas vowed Tottenham would bounce back from this latest heavy defeat, after claiming they had managed to get over their 6-0 mauling at Manchester City last month.
And the Portuguese refused to give up on a top-four Premier League finish.
Asked how much time he would be given at Spurs, Villas-Boas said: 'That's the only thing I can't control, it's not my call so I can't say anything else.
'I have to get down to work, that's the only thing I can focus on.
'The call to make that decision is not mine, because obviously I won't resign and I'm not a quitter.
'The only thing I can do is work hard with the players to get them back on track.
'This is a top-four squad but in our Premier League form we are not there.

Red alert: Suarez was again irresistible for Liverpool and netted his side's fourth with a cute chip

Blame me: Villas-Boas says he will shoulder the responsibility for the loss

'It's not the points tally that's the problem, it's the expression of the results.
'It's the second expressive scoreline that we've suffered in the season, and we admit that in the Premier League things aren't going in any shape or form the way we want.
'All of us had high expectations for this season, we still have them.
'Again I repeat that we are not far off, but the distance is increasing for those Champions League spots.
'And because of the expressive result it makes it even more difficult for us to bounce back.'
Villas-Boas' rocky ride at White Hart Lane was not helped by a tweet from Benoit Assou-Ekotto, seeming to make light of the defeat with team-mate Emanuel Adebayor, who were both at the ground for the match.
Villas-Boas offered no argument with defeat, but felt Paulinho's second-half red card allowed Liverpool to pile on the goals, and the misery.
Confirming he would try to appeal that red card, Villas-Boas labelled the decision 'an extremely poor call'.
He said: 'I think it was a bit harsh because I don't think there was intention to hurt Suarez.
'His foot was high, definitely a yellow card, but a straight red I think is a bit too much, because Paulinho is not that type of player.
'I think it was an extremely poor call that has an influence, not on the victory of Liverpool but on the expressive result.
'I will try (to appeal the red card), hopefully there can be some sensitivity into it.'

Shot shy: Spurs failed to muster a single shot on target, much to the frustration of Roberto Soldado

Marching orders: Referee Jon Moss sends off Paulinho after he left Suarez stricken on the ground

Liverpool manager Rodgers heaped praised on striker Luis Suarez, hinting that captaincy can bring the best out of the prolific Uruguay forward.
Suarez's brace took his Premier League goals tally to 17 for the season, but Rodgers was most concerned with his leadership skills.
Rodgers said: 'This is a guy who has captained one of the most iconic clubs in European football in Ajax, so it's nothing new to him.
'I wanted to have someone who could represent me and the club in that tunnel, before even stepping on the pitch.
'When Luis Suarez has the armband on ready to go out, everyone knows this is a team ready to fight.
'He was great in the changing room, I told him a few days back I wanted him to lead this club and that it was an honour for him.
'I think he enjoyed it and today you've seen his performance level.'
Hailing his side's dominance in every area, Rodgers said: 'I loved their arrogance with the ball today.
'They were a real threat with the ball all day.
'In winning teams everyone supports each other, and this was a result achieved without our captain Steven Gerrard.
'When we have that focus and concentration we're a very good side.'

Aston Villa 0 Man United 3: Welbeck makes most of RVP absence with deadly double

2013-12-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

At last, David Moyes has unearthed a sure thing to survive the great summer of upheaval at Manchester United — the unyielding certainty of points at Villa Park.
So many of United’s dead certs seemed to leave the building with Sir Alex Ferguson, such as avoiding defeat at home to Everton and Newcastle.
But the hold over Aston Villa lives on. Two goals from striker Danny Welbeck in three first-half minutes and one by midfielder Tom Cleverley saw to that as United ended a winless run of four games in the Barclays Premier League.

Main man: Danny Welbeck (right) scored twice as Manchester United cruised to victory at Aston Villa

MATCH FACTS

Aston Villa (4-1-4-1): Guzan 6; Lowton 5, Baker 5, Clark 5, Luna 4; Westwood 6; Albrighton 6, Sylla 4 (Weimann 62, 5), El Ahmadi 5 (Bacuna 87), Agbonlahor 5; Benteke 5 (Kozak 79).
Subs not used: Steer, Bowery, Gardner, Tonev.
Booked: Agbonlahor, Lowton, Clark, Baker.
Manager: Paul Lambert 5.

Man United (4-2-3-1): De Gea 6; Rafael 7, Evans 6, Jones 6, Evra 6; Cleverley 7, Giggs 6 (Fletcher 70, 5); Valencia 8, Rooney 8 (Zaha 84), Januzaj 7 (Young 70, 5); Welbeck 8.
Subs not used: Lindegaard, Ferdinand, Fabio, Buttner.
Goals: Welbeck 15,17, Cleverly 52

Booked: De Gea, Welbeck.

Manager: David Moyes 7.
Man of the Match: Welbeck
Referee: Lee Mason 6
Attendance: 42,682
*Player ratings by Matt Barlow at Villa Park

What a relief for Moyes to halt the worrying slide away from the top four. What a relief to find the likes of Welbeck, Cleverley and Antonio Valencia stepping forth to shoulder responsibility alongside Wayne Rooney.
What a relief to encounter Villa in such an insipid mood.
It is more than 18 years since United failed to take anything from this Birmingham venue, back in August 1995 when they were beaten 3-1 on the opening day of the season and Alan Hansen claimed on Match of the Day that you ‘can’t win anything with kids’.
Perspectives have changed. These days, Manchester United expect to win regardless of who wears the shirt. The pressure was on at Villa and anxiety was all too evident as United started nervously in defence.
Karim El Ahmadi and Marc Albrighton both tested David de Gea early on but Villa went behind in the 15th minute and never looked like altering the outcome from that moment on.
Valencia and Rafael did much of the damage on the United right, tormenting left back Antonio Luna, who found himself badly exposed by Gabriel Agbonlahor’s determination to chase beyond Christian Benteke in attack and the inability of Villa’s midfield to sense the threat.
Both Welbeck’s goals came from this area of the pitch and there could have been more from the same source before half-time had United been more clinical. Rafael produced a wonderful cross, dug out from close to the corner flag for the opener.
Adnan Januzaj climbed to meet it with a magnificent header, which thumped into the base of a post and Welbeck reacted first, forcing the ball into the net.
‘We are staying up,’ sang the United fans.

David Moyes: The all round performance was more like us

Lambert: Started well but the goals were disappointing to concede

Opening salvo: Welbeck slides home United's goal to send them on their way at Villa Park

Relieved: United manager David Moyes went through a range of emotions on the touchline at Villa Park

SUPER STAT

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea kept the champions’ first clean sheet away from home this season.

Soon they were 2-0 up. Cleverley and Welbeck combined in midfield to release Valencia and Welbeck was first to the low cross, sliding in ahead of Rooney to guide it into the top corner.
He had not scored in the Premier League since the opening day of the season at Swansea and here were two inside 180 seconds.
How the 23-year-old England international must have been thrilled to start up front after spending much of the season on the left wing for club and country.
With fellow strikers Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez among the injured at United, Welbeck made his case.
He might easily have finished with a hat-trick, pulling one effort wide in the first half and chipping just over the bar after a goalmouth scramble in the second half. But he has to be satisfied with two goals and a splendid display.

Making things happen: Wayne Rooney dropped deep and was pivotal in Manchester United's victory

Doubling up: Welbeck slides home to increase United's advantage as they return to winning ways

As United relaxed, no-one was more influential than Rooney, dropping deep, spraying passes and dictating the pace.
He ought to have hit the target from a cross by Valencia after the United winger had again brushed Luna aside.
Cleverley made it safe for the visitors, coolly clipping the ball past Brad Guzan after an astute pass by Rooney.
It was a year to the day since his last Premier League goal and capped a complete performance for the often maligned midfielder.

Clever boy: Tom Cleverley added gloss to the scoreline with a third United goal in the second half

Pleased as punch: Tom Cleverley celebrates wildly after stretching United's lead on Sunday

These are the type of tidy and industrious displays which made him an England regular under Roy Hodgson in the first place.
United coasted home from here. Off came Rooney and Ryan Giggs and on went Darren Fletcher for his first taste of action since last Boxing Day.
De Gea saved at the near post from Albrighton and sprang to his right to keep out a free-kick from El Ahmadi but these were rare forays from Villa, who reacted to the frustration with a few extra physical tackles and petulant reaction, which seemed to irritate Moyes.
Paul Lambert put it down to ‘over-exuberance’ but four of his players were booked, including Agbonlahor, who was making his 300th appearance for the club and will be banned from the next one, at Stoke.

Temper, temper: Welbeck (obscured) clashes with Nathan Baker before the pair were booked

Up in the air: Matthew Lowton challenges Wayne Rooney as Villa suffer another defeat at home

They may have started with a win at Arsenal in August but, on this showing, Villa are every bit as poor as last year without the same blaze of Benteke goals.
He scored 23 last season and four in the first four of this Premier League campaign but the Belgian has not found the net in 10 games, a run stretching back to mid-September. ‘He’s not getting the breaks,’ said Lambert.
Villa supporters were remarkably patient, or were unable to summon the energy to be angry.
There were a few groans at half-time when they went in two behind and a few more at the end but most settled for going home early.
Villa Park was virtually empty by the time the game ended, while the travelling fans were singing the name of their manager and Moyes was on the pitch, giving them a wave of thanks. What a relief.

Welcome return: Darren Fletcher made his first Premier League appearance since last Boxing Day

Sidelined: Scotland midfielder Fletcher has struggled to overcome a chronic bowel condition

West Brom's Berahino posts foul-mouthed Tweet just minutes after Clarke sacking... but don't worry, it's only a 'flat tyre'!

2013-12-15T13:54:00.001-08:00

West Bromwich Albion forward Saido Berahino is feeling flat after Steve Clarke's sacking from the Hawthorns, but according to him his deflated mood is purely because of a 'punctured tyre'.
The young star Tweeted 'Wow i cant believe it, that's f****** s***!!!!' just minutes after Clarke's departure hit the news, but soon excused the foul-mouthed Tweet as 'relating to a personal issue, nothing else'.
He then posted a picture of a punctured tyre, before deleting the image.

Talent: Saido Berahino - who scored at Old Trafford for West Brom - recently signed a new deal at the club

Not a good move: Berahino lamented West Brom's decision to sack Clarke on Saturday night

Backtrack: Berahino quickly posted this Tweet, suggesting he was angry about a personal issue

Feeling down: Berahino then posted a picture of a flat tyre, but then deleted the image

The club revealed only late last month that they planned to hold contract talks with the Scot in the new year.
However, Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Cardiff was the Baggies' fourth in a row leaving them 16th in the league.
Berahino committed his future to the club earlier this month, signing a three-and-a-half year deal.
The new deal saw the England Under 21 international receive an icnrease from £850-per-week to £12,000-per-week, but his future may be in doubt after speaking out about the club's decision.

International class: The 20-year-old has announced himself in England with some fine performances this season

It was Clarke who gave Berahino his first appearance for the club, and he has scored six goals this season.
The club announced their decision to dispense with Clarke, and place him on gardening leave, was the unanimous decision of the board of directors with the Baggies just two points and two places above the relegation zone.
Assistant Kevin Keen has also been placed on gardening leave.

Bad run: Steve Clarke has been sacked by West Brom after winning just seven games this year

Wilshere faces FA action for obscene gesture to City fans during 6-3 defeat

2013-12-15T13:53:00.000-08:00

England midfielder Jack Wilshere is facing FA action after making an obscene one-fingered gesture at Manchester City supporters on Sunday.
The Arsenal player was shown on television cameras reacting angrily to home fans during his side’s astonishing 6-3 defeat to their title rivals.

Controversial: Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere appeared to make an offensive gesture at The Etihad

Even if referee Martin Atkinson fails to mention the incident in his report, which he will file to the FA on Monday, the ruling body still have the right to charge Wilshere with ‘improper conduct’.
Liverpool’s Luis Suarez served a one-match suspension two years ago for a similar act in a game against Fulham and the FA, conscious of potential accusations of favouring England players, will be keen to ensure that justice is done.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger claimed to have missed the incident which followed a superb Wilshere shot being saved by City keeper Costel Pantilimon.
‘I didn’t see that,’ said Wenger. ‘I don’t know if he did it. If he did it and he’s banned, we will have to accept it.’

Frustrating afternoon: Jack Wilshere didn't play as he might have hoped as Arsenal lost at The Etihad

Significant blow: Laurent Koscielny is Arsenal's best defender and key to their title challenge

Surprisingly, Wenger refused to accept that Manuel Pellegrini’s side represent his primary rivals for the title, despite City having scored 31 times in their last six home games — including six against both Arsenal and Tottenham, as well as four times against Manchester United.
‘I don’t know, we will see,’ said Wenger, when asked if the defeat was significant. ‘They are one of the teams to beat but not more than any other team. We have played against Everton, who are as good as City; we have played against Southampton, who are as good as City.
‘What hurts me more is we had the opportunity to put City at nine points (behind) and they are three tonight. That’s very difficult to swallow because that was a team that was not unbeatable today.’
Wenger, who claimed he was not looking for excuses for the embarrassing reverse, did, however, reference his team’s midweek Champions League trip to Napoli and the performance of Atkinson as key factors.

Damaging day: But Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger claims he did not see the incident

‘We had three offsides not turned down and a penalty turned down,’ he said. ‘The referee had a bad game.’
Wenger also left the Etihad with concerns over defender Laurent Koscielny, who suffered a bad cut to his leg in trying to defend City’s second goal. ‘He will be out for a while,’ said Wenger. ‘How long? I don’t know.’
For opposite number Pellegrini, the victory followed hot on the heels of an impressive Champions League success at Bayern Munich, a result overshadowed by the fact the manager confessed he did not realise how many goals his team needed to score to top the qualifying group.
‘This was a more complete game because we couldn’t score four against Bayern and there were a lot of complaints about that,’ joked City’s Chilean manager. ‘But I don’t think that was our best performance because Arsenal scored three goals and that’s too many for the chances they had.

Euro 2000: A young David Beckham gave a one-finger salute to supporters after England's 3-2 loss to Portugal

‘But it was a very complete game in an attacking sense because it is not easy to score six goals against Arsenal. We are not thinking about the title at this moment, we have a lot more points to fight for.
‘We must continue improving and finding our style of football. For me, it’s very important to be an entertaining team, but I think we can entertain more if we score six goals and they don’t score three!’
Only a calf injury suffered by Sergio Aguero could take the gloss off another scintillating display by City, with Pellegrini awaiting the result of medical tests on Monday.

Past: Luis Suarez of Liverpool aims a middle finger at Fulham fans, which he received a one-match ban for

West Brom act after four defeats in a row pushes them closer to relegation zone

2013-12-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

Steve Clarke is in shock after being sacked by West Brom four weeks after they said they would open contract talks with him in the new year.
Just hours after the club’s defeat by Cardiff, Clarke was gone and his rival Malky Mackay was among the favourites to take over.
The fourth straight League defeat left West Brom 16th in the table, two points above the relegation zone. They have won only nine of their last 41 League games.

Bad run: Steve Clarke has been sacked by West Brom after winning just seven games this year

Clarke’s players appeared to be shocked by the news, striker Saido Berahino, tweeting, ‘wow I can’t believe it, that’s f****** s***!!!!’ before later deleting the posting.
Former West Brom boss Roberto di Matteo is another name in the frame, while former Manchester United star Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, title-winning manager of Norwegian side Molde, is highly rated in England. Steve McClaren, who took over at Derby in September, is also a candidate.
West Brom sporting and technical director Richard Garlick said: ‘We have reluctantly come to the decision to relieve Steve of his duties. It has been well documented that we have not had the rub of the green this season, but that does not cloud the generally disappointing points return during this calendar year.
‘This club’s track record proves we do not take such decisions lightly, having only enforced a change in this position three times in about 14 years. But with key games coming up, we felt it was important we acted now to give the club the best possible chance this season.’

Mixed emotions: Frazier Campbell celebrates Cardiff's winner as Liam Ridgewell and Claudio Yacob look on

Clarke, former assistant to Jose Mourinho at Chelsea, guided West Brom to eighth place last season, their highest ever Premier League position. This season started brightly with just two defeats in their opening 10 games, with the highlight a 2-1 win at United.
The wheels have since come off with only one win in their last 10 matches, although they haven’t always enjoyed the best of luck, memorably when denied a famous win at Chelsea by a controversial late penalty which prompted referees chief Mike Riley to apologise to Clarke.
Yesterday, Clarke sounded aware that he was running out of excuses. He said: ‘The performances are OK, but you have to separate yourself from that and look at the results. We are looking over our shoulders and that’s never comfortable. We have to work harder and hope to get a break or that somebody does something fantastic.’

Beaten man: Clarke looks dejected on the touchline just hours before losing his job

He was on a two-year contract due to end in the summer and Garlick said on November 21: ‘Steve’s contract was discussed at last month’s board meeting. We decided that we would open talks with Steve in the new year which, historically, we feel is the time to address such matters.’
But last night Clarke was summoned to a meeting where he was told the news by chairman Jeremy Peace and the rest of the board at the club’s training ground.
There was some disquiet at the club at video footage of West Brom players enjoying a Christmas party in Dublin just a few days before the crucial trip to Cardiff.
Yesterday’s performance did Clarke few favours with West Brom failing to get a single effort on goal throughout the first half.
It was Peter Whittingham who scored the only goal of the game, rising to meet Craig Noone’s 65th-minute cross and beat Boaz Myhill with a header for Cardiff’s first win in six League games.
At the final whistle you could sense the relief around the stadium for Mackay and his players. But it could have been very different had Cardiff’s Gary Medel not cleared off the line following Gareth McAuley’s close-range effort, or David Marshall had not superbly denied Shane Long late on.

United set to open £50m Rooney talks as Moyes plans give away Rooney by January

2013-12-14T18:13:00.002-08:00

Manchester United are confident Wayne Rooney is ready to begin discussions on a new four-year contract worth a staggering £50million - as David Moyes prepares to wield the axe in a bid to ignite their Premier League season.
United executive chairman Ed Woodward has contacted Rooney's agent Paul Stretford a number of times in the past few weeks, and it is understood formal meetings will take place soon.

Positive sign: Manchester United set to open contract talks with striker Wayne Rooney

It is the first sign of a breakthrough between the player and the club since the breakdown in relations with Sir Alex Ferguson, aggravated by the former boss's insistence that Rooney, 28, had asked to leave the club, something the striker has always denied.
News that he wants to stay will delight Moyes, who will ditch players as he looks to freshen up his squad.
Ashley Young, Nani and Antonio Valencia have struggled and Moyes said: 'A few could go if we got the right offer.'

Smiles better: Rooney appears to be much happier at United

Key man: Rooney will have to lead United attack after Robin van Persie was ruled out for next eight matches by thigh injury

England pair Tom Cleverley and Danny Welbeck, as well as Javier Hernandez, Anderson and Alex Buttner, have not proved themselves, while veterans Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra are unlikely to be offered new contracts.
'I've tried to give an opportunity to everybody,' Moyes said. 'Would we sell? If the right offers were there we'd probably look at it.

Tough decision: United boss David Moyes is ready to wield the axe

Under pressure: Ashley Young has struggled to make an impact under David Moyes

On his way: Midfielder Anderson has failed to impress

'We'll be balancing trying to move people on but also trying to bring people in.'
Moyes watched Atletico Madrid's £15million midfielder Koke face Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala in the Champions League on Wednesday. He also plans to try again for Everton leftback Leighton Baines.

Barcelona 2 Villarreal 1: Catalan giants gives La Liga lead thanks to Neymar brace

2013-12-14T17:29:00.005-08:00

Barcelona's brilliant Brazilian Neymar made it five goals in two games as the league leaders moved five points clear of Real Madrid.
As Leo Messi continues his recuperation in Argentina Neymar continues to fill the the four times Balon d’Or winners golden boots.

On a run: Neymar celebrates the second goal, his fifth goal in a week for Barcelona

Ahead: Barcelona's Neymarcelebrates after scoring the opening goal in the first half

Questions were asked recently about the 57m euros signing from Santos’ ability to finish – his answer has been resounding, netting three times against Celtic and twice against Villarreal.
Barcelona’s Sporting Director Andoni Zubizarreta confirmed after the game that representatives of the club will travel to Argentina next week to speak with Messi, after this display he can tell the Barça number 10 there is no need to hurry his comeback.
'He will give us so much more than goals' said Zubizarreta about Neymar but on the night it was his finishing that earned Barcelona the points.
'You are always going to miss the best player in the world when he is not there,' said Barcelona coach Tata Martino. 'I think we would have played even better in these last two games with him.'

Slotted home: Neymar was handed the opportunity to score after Mario's handball

All the same he will have been delighted to see his side move extend their advantage over Real Madrid without Messi’s help.
With Xavi rested on the bench former Arsenal midfielders Alex Song and Cesc Fabregas paired-up in midfield and it was Song who almost broke the deadlock but his shot came back off Sergio Asenjo’s right-hand upright.
Barcelona dominated the opening exchanges and it was Neymar who put them ahead on 28 minutes.
The Brazilian became the fifth different player to score from the spot for Barcelona this season after Mario Gaspar handled Jordi Alba’s cross.

On the bounce: Neymar's goal marks the first time he has scored in consecutive games for Barca

Alexis should have made it 2-0 when put through by Iniesta but had his shot turned away for a corner by Asenjo.
Villarreal equalized just four minutes into the second half when Mateo Musacchio bullet-headed a corner past Jose Pinto after getting ahead of Marc Bartra.
Having a allowed Villrreal to get back into the game Barça struggled to get back on top and on the hour Tata Martino decided he had seen enough and brought Xavi on for Alex Song. The Cameroon midfielder continues to play only a bit-part role at the Camp Nou and the change was the catalyst for Barcelona going back in front.

Leveller: Villarreal's players celebrate after the equaliser just after half-time

Fabregas sprang the off-side trap with a pass that Alexis Sanchez turned back to Neymar who made it ten goals in all competitions this season.
Alexis Sanchez was involved again moments later when he pulled the back for Andres Iniesta whose first times shot was brilliantly turned away by Asenjo.
Neymar was then booked by referee Ignacio Iglesias for taking a corner too quickly; Zubizareta confirmed the club will consider appealing the card once they have seen the referee’s report.
If it is not overturned he miss next week’s trip to Getafe. If they are unsuccessful it will be a test for Barcelona to be without both Messi and the man who has replaced him so brilliantly in the last week.

Moyes manage Friday the 13th blossom with United harpoon to miss EIGHT games due to ham wrong- Van Persie out for a month!

2013-12-13T13:03:00.001-08:00

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has been ruled out of action for a month with a thigh strain.
The Dutchman suffered the injury taking the corner that led to United's winner against Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday night and will not play again until the New Year.
The news is a hammer blow to David Moyes as he tries to avoid United's third straight Premier League defeat in 11 years at Aston Villa on Sunday.

Plenty of time for these: Robin van Persie was seen picking up a takeaway in Alderley Edge on Thursday

Quick dash: Van Persie returns to his car after picking up some lunch in the small Cheshire village

Out: Dutchman van Persie has been ruled out for up to four weeks with a thigh injury

THE EIGHT GAMES VAN PERSIE COLD MISS

Aston Villa (A), Dec 15, Premier League
Stoke (A), Dec 18, League Cup
West Ham (H), Dec 21, Premier League
Hull (A), Dec 26, Premier League
Norwich (A), Dec 28, Premier League
Tottenham (H), Jan 1, Premier League
Swansea (H), Jan 5, FA Cup
Swansea (H), Jan 11, Premier League

Van Persie, who has already been out with groin and toe injuries this season, could miss another seven games.
Moyes said: 'Robin Van Persie is out for a month.
'He picked up a thigh strain in taking a corner kick which led to the goal.'
Moyes added: 'It is unfortunate because I think if you look at our record with Wayne Rooney and Robin in the team it is actually very good and we have not had them for quite a period recently.
'Marouane Fellaini has a bit of a back injury.
'Michael Carrick is missing and Robin is going to miss four weeks with a thigh strain. That is a big blow to us.'
With Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra and Chris Smalling also sidelined for the Shakhtar game, and his side suffering back-to-back Premier League defeats against Everton and Newcastle, it must feel as though Moyes is having no luck at present.

David Moyes in or out: Fans have their say

Tough going: The news is a blow for David Moyes ahead of the trip to Aston Villa on Sunday

However, he said: 'I have no doubt it will get better.
'I am sure we have plenty of players who can cover it and we don't miss them too much.'
At least Moyes does have alternatives to Van Persie.
In midfield his squad has been left bereft by the absence of Carrick, who has been sidelined for a month with an Achilles injury.

Show off! Robin Van Persie impresses with football skills

Off the bench: Van Persie (left) came on as a substitute in the 63rd minute against Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday

'I do (feel United have felt Carrick's loss),' said Moyes
'We need him for his creativity. We have missed him for lots of other reasons as well. It is important.

'We were looking for a couple of midfield players in the summer. We weren't able to get two. We got one.

Big miss: United midfielder Michael Carrick has been out with an achilles injury for more than a month

'We needed one who could give us something else if we did get an injury to Michael or one who could have played with him.
'We have definitely been a little bit short in that area.

'Hopefully he is not too far away and he will be back in a couple of weeks.'

Cavani's move to Chelsea isn't useless, Porto slap £40m tag on United goal Mangala and Liverpool could beat City to Feyenoord wonderkid Kongolo

2013-12-13T12:58:00.000-08:00

Porto will demand £40million for defender Eliaquim Mangala should Manchester United follow up their interest with a bid.
Manager David Moyes was in the stands at the Vicente Calderon Stadium on Wednesday night with Jimmy Lumsden and United's Andalucian-based scout as Atletico Madrid ensured Porto were knocked out of the Champions League.

Heading for England? Porto's Eliaquim Mangala was watched by David Moyes in the clash with Atletico Madrid

The lack of Champions League money will apply pressure to Porto to find funds elsewhere and Mangala and team mates Fernando, Jackson Martinez and Alex Sandro are the natural candidates.
Intermediaries are understood to have already enquired on behalf of Manchester City for Mangala but City are conscious of overspending particularly with financial fair play rules still to be maintained.
Bids will no doubt be made under the release clause of £40m but the 22-year-old French defender's release will still be expensive.
United have been busy this week scouring Europe as they head into a crucial part of the season. They were represented at Austria Vienna v Zenit and Benfica v Paris St Germain as they continue to weigh up targets for centre midfield, attack and defence.

Star turn: Mangala has impressed at centre back this season and has attracted some attention

Another target: Southampton's Luke Shaw has been hotly tipped to join Chelsea at some point

Southampton's Luke Shaw remains a candidate. Sportsmail reported last month that the 18-year-old is a target for Chelsea also as they weigh up replacements for Ashley Cole. Southampton do not want to sell in January and would prefer to keep him for another year but that may change in the summer should bids go beyond £25million.

Necessity: David Moyes knows he needs new recruits after a disappointing start to the season

Edinson Cavani could be a surprise departure from Paris St Germain in January. The Uruguayan is keen on a move to the Premier League despite making his move to France a relative success. Chelsea are maintaining interest following their failed bid to buy him in the summer while Manchester United will monitor developments. He wouldnt be cheap of course with PSG having spent £54.3million on the 26-year-old.

Lethal: Edinson Cavani has proved his worth since leaving Napoli for Paris Saint-Germain last summer

Edinson Cavani trains with PSG team-mates ahead of Benfica clash

The future of Everton striker Nikica Jelavic is continuing to occupy the thinking of Premier League and Championship clubs alike.
Queens Park Rangers manager Harry Redknapp is keen to take the Croatian if he can be convinced of stepping down a division ahead of the World Cup while West Ham, Crystal Palace, Hull, Stoke and Cardiff have all made enquiries.

In the balance: Nikica Jelavic is out of favour at Everton since the arrival of Romelu Lukaku

West Ham want to take him on loan but Everton won't contemplate that without getting a striker of their own in first.
Everton were among clubs present at Austria Vienna v Zenit St Petersburg on Wednesday where Vienna striker Philipp Hosiner scored twice as they beat Zenit 4-1.

Liverpool have not given up the fight for Feyenoord's young midfielder Rodney Kongolo.
Manchester City were widely expected to have agreed a deal for the 16-year-old by now after leading the chase for the past six months. However, Liverpool remain in talks with the player's agent in a bid to sign him next month.
The sticking point for agreement is understood to have been wages, with the player's camp looking for around £6,000 per week.
Kongolo, who has two brothers, Holland U21 international defender Terence, 19, and nine year old academy prospect Fidel, is shaping up to become a top defensive midfielder with the physique to match. He can also play in defence and has drawn comparisons to Patrick Vieira.

Strengthening: Brendan Rodgers could pip Manchester City to the Feyenoord youngster Rodney Kongolo

KOLO sings the Kolo! Liverpool star's version of his OWN chant

City are on the trail of another youngster Keita Balde Diao who has already broken into Lazio's first team. Keita, 18, is a former Barcelona trainee who was sent out on loan from the club as punishment for putting an ice cube into another player's bed while on a trip to Qatar. He then scored 47 goals in one season for the club, Cornella.
A year later Lazio paid £270,000 for him and he is now attracting scouts from all of Europe's top sides again.

In the hunt: 18-year-old Keita Balde Diao is being tracked by Manchester City

Licence to thrill: Lazio starlet Keita celebrates after netting against Napoli earlier this month

Meanwhile, the agent of Swedish prospect Valmir Berisha admits a decision over the Halmstads striker's future will soon be made. The 17 year-old has offers from Manchester United, City, Liverpool, Sunderland and Arsenal.
Agent Anders Karlsson said: 'We have a priority list of clubs, we have full control of the situation. The arrival of new clubs is happening all the time. But the decision is close. How close? I cannot say for hours or days or so. But it can be done very soon, that's all I can say in the current situation.'

Newcastle defender Steven Taylor could be a target for Premier League rivals in the January window.
Taylor has not played since being sent off in the 4-0 defeat by Manchester City in August and also picked up a niggling injury. However, the 27-year-old is being considered as a possible loan option with Crystal Palace among clubs in the market for defenders.

Out of favour: Steven Taylor hasn't played for Newcastle since receiving a red card against Manchester City

Newcastle are in talks with clubs to try and sign a striker imminently. They have asked again about Stoke City target Luuk de Jong but are continuing to look at options in France and in Turkey.
Sporting Lisbon's Diego Capel is another possibility as they weigh up various wingers including Aiden McGeady at Spartak Moscow.

Chinese side Beijing Guoan are looking at Premier League players as they look to strengthen their league again in January. Although currently third in the CSL table behind Guanzhou Evergrande and Shandong Luneng, they are willing to offer deals of around £2million a year tax free for big names to make the switch to China and raise the league's profile.

Wigan manager Uwe Rosler is considering a bid to take George Saville on loan from Chelsea. The 20-year-old midfielder played for Rosler at Brentford where he is currently on loan but Chelsea like the idea of him playing at a higher level.

Rising star: George Saville (right) currently plays on loan from Chelsea at Brentford

Bournemouth assistant manager Jason Tindall was among spectators at Cobham training centre watching Chelsea U19s beat Steaua Bucharest 5-0 on Tuesday. Scottish striker Islam Feruz scored twice, John Swift, Alex Kiwomya and Ambrose Gnahore added the others.
Tindall is weighing up potential loan moves for next month with Chelsea keen for their young players to gain more experience. Former Fulham coach Billy McKinlay was also watching as he stays prepared ahead of his next coaching appointment.

Chelsea scouts were present at Marseille against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday night. Local reports linked Chelsea with Florian Thauvin who Newcastle and Arsenal were keen on last year, however, Chelsea are maintaining interest in Marseille's Giannelli Imbula.
Defensive midfield is a position they want to strengthen as recognised by Rafa Benitez last year. Nemanja Matic of Benfica is their ideal recruit but Imbula, at 21, is a younger model and could be bought for around £5m to £8m less. Arsenal have also monitored his progress since he broke into Guingamp first team as a 17-year-old in 2009.
Fredy Guarin at Inter Milan has also been offered to Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United. Privately, David Moyes does not think Guarin is for him and is looking at other alternatives.

Highly rated: Marseille's Florian Thauvin (right) was watched by Chelsea's Jose Mourinho

Inter want a striker but are struggling to raise funds and are looking at various swaps and sales that could involve Guarin going the other way.
City's Edin Dzeko, Chelsea's Demba Ba, United's Javier Hernandez and Southampton's Pablo Osvaldo are all on their wish-list. They remain keen also on a loan for City's Stevan Jovetic but City are not so keen.

Hands up if you want me: Inter Milan star Fredy Guarin has been offered to a number of English clubs

Centre-back Andrea Ranocchia is another attractive option they are willing to sell for the right price as is Ishak Belfodil, their 6ft 3ins, 21-year-old Algerian striker, who has been offered to Fulham.
Fulham expect offers for Dimitar Berbatov although a return to Tottenham is unlikely considering his age at 32. Anderlecht are also keen on Fulham's Bryan Ruiz but may struggle to afford him.

Another option: Inter defender Andrea Ranocchia (left) could be up for grabs for the right price

Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given is in demand as he shakes off the rust at Middlesbrough. The Republic of Ireland international has impressed three games into his loan spell and that has brought attention from Swansea and Southampton as they look to strengthen their goalkeeping options following respective injuries to Michel Vorm and Artur Boruc.
Sunderland have spoken to QPR about Julio Cesar but he is also the subject of enquiries from elsewhere. Cesar's concern is that if he leaves he wants to play regularly as a number one.

In demand: Shay Given has impressed so far while at Middlesbrough

Celtic goalkeeper Fraser Forster is another being mentioned south of the border but The Scottish champions' asking price of £10m limits his options.

Attracting attention: England and Celtic goalkeeper Fraser Forster has dazzled this season

Fraser Forster pushing Joe Hart for England number one spot

WICKED WHISPER

Which Championship manager was turned away from a seaside resort bar renowned for its transvestite clientele?
Some of his players had already gone in to the bar as they looked to add some exotic variety to their night out but took great delight when door staff refused to allow their older boss through the doors - despite his protests.

Swansea are taking a close look at Hungarian defender Akos Baki. The 19-year-old from MTK will train with the club during Hungary's winter break. He said: 'The English league is both physically and mentally perfect and professionally it is a huge step forward for me to work at a Premier League team.
'This gives you a good dose of self-confidence as well, as you know it will take a lot of talent for someone to be successful internationally.'

Cardiff City scout Tommy Johnson was at Celtic's game with Motherwell last Friday before watching Dundee United against Hearts. Cardiff want a striker, a midfielder and a left-back, however, Malky Mackay is not keen on a return for Joe Ledley despite the speculation. Dundee United's Ryan Gauld, John Souttar and Andy Robertson were watched again.

West Bromwich Albion are looking to raise funds by moving on some of their fringe players. Manager Steve Clarke is looking for a striker and a left-back but are understood to be willing to listen to offers for Markus Rosenberg, Nicolas Anelka, Diego Lugano and Graham Dorrans.

Fringe character: West Brom defender Diego Lugano could be on the move from the Midlands club

Accrington Stanley have confirmed that 16-year-old winger Connor Mahoney has joined Blackburn Rovers. Mahoney has made six appearances for Stanley this season and a compensation package has been agreed between the two teams under the terms of the Elite Player Performance Plan, understood to be around £100,000. Accrington may yet bring Mahoney back on loan.

Leeds have signed American Gboly Ariyibi, 18, formerly of Southampton, on a short-term deal until the end of the season. Manager Brian McDermott will hold talks with striker El Hadji Diouf over his future in the next few weeks.

Former Portsmouth striker James Keene has signed for Israel's Bnei Yehuda from Sweden's IF Elfsborg. The 27-year-old has signed an 18 month deal with Bnei Yehuda.

When I observe at Man City I signior't envy them, stat Arsenal boss Wenger forthright of title showdown

2013-12-13T12:54:00.000-08:00

Arsene Wenger insists he does not envy Manchester City's strong squad and believes he has more creative players at his disposal than counterpart Manuel Pellegrini.
Arsenal travel to the Etihad stadium on Saturday and Wenger believes his own squad is capable of extending their lead at the top of the Premier League table against Pellegrini's side.
'City has a strong squad, I don't deny that but when I look at my squad I don't envy them,' said Wenger.

All smiles: Santi Cazorla (left) and Jack Wilshere share a joke ahead of Arsenal's visit to Manchester City

Pals: Wilshere, Per Mertesacker (centre) and Aaron Ramsey chat after Friday's training session

Midfield mates: Summer signings Mesut Ozil (left) and Mathieu Flamini pose for a photo together

Arsene Wenger: I'm optimistic going into City clash

'We have more creative players and we are more versatile. It's easier for me to rotate.'
The Frenchman also claimed Manchester City face ‘negative pressure’ at the Etihad ahead of Saturday's showdown.
Despite City’s exceptional home record - they have won their last five games at the Etihad - Arsenal’s manager claims Manuel Pellegrini is under huge pressure.

Bromance: Cazorla looks pleased as he shares a hug with Arsenal's Polish goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski

Confident: Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud (right) clenches his fist at the camera as Emiliano Viviano looks on

Serious chat: Gunners goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny speaks with manager Arsene Wenger

High spirits: Giroud jokes around and pulls a funny face as Arsenal train in front of the cameras

City will be nine points behind the Barclays Premier League leaders if Arsenal pull off a shock on Saturday lunchtime.
‘Let’s not forget if City lose they are nine points behind, so they have negative pressure. We have positive pressure,' said Wenger.
‘We want to do well, we have a cushion, we are not under massive pressure.
‘We have an opportunity to show we are a good team and that’s an opportunity we want to take.

European trip: Arsenal travel to Manchester City following their 2-0 defeat away at Napoli on Wednesday

Home run: Man City have scored twenty-five goals in their last five Premier League games at the Etihad

Making a point: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger (far right) insists he doesn't envy the Manchester City squad

‘This is the next test and it’s a game where we can make a difference and what we want to do is to be ourselves with our quality, spirit and attitude and we want to get a result.
‘I have been questioned so many times about our defence, but we like to score goals and go forward. But Man City can do that as well. Pellegrini is an offensive manager and so am I.’
‘We make City believe they play away! I believe first of all we need to be strong defensively and maybe the best way to do that is to attack and stop them finding their flow.
‘We have an opportunity to make a difference because we play first, we can go fro five points clear to eight. That’s how we look at it.’

Sealed with a kiss: Mesut Ozil's summer arrival has coincided with Arsenal's excellent start to the campaign

Comeback: James Milner wheels away after putting Man City 3-2 ahead against Munich having been 2-0 down

WENGER ON RAY PARLOUR

Former Gunners midfielder Ray Parlour revealed on Wednesday that he and his Arsenal team-mates once drunk 35 pints in an afternoon - before going on to win the Premier League and FA Cup double.
Asked about Parlour's revelation, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said: ‘The physical constraints have changed over 20 years, they had more freedom than today because the demands now are higher.
‘The spying facility of society has increased so it is more difficult to be anonymous so the pressure on the players is more difficult than it was under Ray Parlour’s time.’

'Some strikers have fantastic several qualities... ours signior't': Mourinho take front one can't procure with Suarez and Aguero

2013-12-13T12:52:00.000-08:00

Jose Mourinho had admitted Chelsea strikers Demba Ba and Fernando Torres are not in the same class as the likes of Sergio Aguero or Luis Suarez.
The Chelsea boss said: 'Some strikers, they are players with fantastic individual qualities and can by themselves do what their team not able to do. Our strikers do not have this kind of quality or potential.
'I'm not criticising them, because they do other jobs. The number of goals is quite frustrating, for them as much as me, but the contribution is good.

Swipe: Jose Mourinho has not been impressed by the form of his three misfiring strikers

Mourinho: Chelsea must not be dependent on star players

The Blues three-man strikeforce of Fernando Torres, Demba Ba and Samuel Eto'o have only managed a total of four Premier League goals between them this season.
The Portuguese manager was particularly upset by the number of chances wasted in the club's previous league game - a 3-2 loss to Stoke City - and has vented his frustration again.
'The other guys (Aguero and Suarez) play their strengths and have super individual qualities: dribble, shots, sharp movement. They resolve problems.
'We don't have this kind of striker and need them to do different type of work.
'Do I expect more? Yes. Do we need more? Yes. But can't expect Demba or Fernando to get ball like Sergio Aguero or Luis Suarez, dribble past three and score.'

Goal shy: Jose Mourinho watches over Fernando Torres during a training session at Cobham

Portugeezer: Mourinho claims his Chelsea strikers are more attuned to team organisation

Firing blanks: Fernando Torres

Firing blanks: Samuel Eto'o

Firing blanks: Demba Ba

Super strikers: Luis Suarez and Sergio Aguero have qualities that Chelsea's strikers don't possess

Meanwhile, Mourinho has suggested that the squad he inherited for his second spell as Chelsea manager was not left in good enough shape by his predecessor Rafa Benitez.
The Spaniard was drafted in as 'interim' manager last season following the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo and managed to win the Europa League, despite failing to be accepted by the majority of Blues fans.
'I knew it would be tougher [this time]. Some managers choose easy jobs, some tough, I choose a hard one but I enjoy it,' Mourinho told the Evening Standard.
'This is not a criticism but the last manager Benitez knew he would not be the manager for the next year and he was chasing results. He was not worried about the building of a team with a certain style.
'I didn’t have a real base to start. For many reasons we knew the situation needs time and patience.'

The feud abides: Mourinho has suggested that the squad he inherited from Rafa Benitez (left) was not in good shape

Moyes vows to get clammy with United slackers after blowy from legends Keane and Schmeichel

2013-12-13T12:49:00.002-08:00

Manchester United boss David Moyes has vowed to get his players back into top form after seeing his side slip down to ninth in the Premier League.
Old Trafford legends Roy Keane and Peter Schmeichel have both condemned some members of Moyes' under-performing squad in recent days.
On Tuesday, Keane singled out Ashley Young and Rio Ferdinand for treatment, whilst Schmeichel has claimed some Red Devils players 'look as though they don't care'.

Defiant: Manchester United manager David Moyes insists he can improve the squad

'Not good enough': Ashley Young was one of the players who came under fire

It goes to the heart of a problem that, unless it is resolved, will continue to undermine Moyes' hopes of a successful transition from the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
'This squad was good enough to win the league last year,' said Moyes.
'I need to make sure we get them back playing at that level again.
'I take responsibility. I always do. It is the manager's job.
'I will try and make sure that from now on there are no questions about their application.'
Given there have already been concerns expressed around the United dressing room about a lack of fight, it is unlikely Moyes is unaware of the issues Keane and Schmeichel have raised.

David Moyes in or out: Fans have their say

Premier League struggles: United have lost their two last home games to Newcastle and Everton

Moyes: Wayne Rooney may not yet have reached his peak

Blow: Robin van Persie has been ruled out for a month with thigh injury

Indeed, privately, it would be no surprise if he agreed with at least some of them, with Schmeichel's status as a club ambassador giving even more weight to his comments.
Certainly it appears the clock is ticking on a few high-profile United careers, with Moyes admitting, ahead of Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa, that changes are going to be made.
'We are making sure everyone has an opportunity to show the new manager exactly what they can do,' he said.
'We are trying to be as fair as we can to the players who are here.
'We have really good players. These are near enough all the players who were involved last year. Hopefully we can get them in top form.
'I have a good squad. Can I improve it? Of course I can. Am I going to improve it? Yes I am.
'Undoubtedly we will alter things in the coming months and transfer windows. Will they come in January? I don't know.'

Positives: United have impressed in the Champions League, despite David Moyes' inexperience in Europe

Yet Keane has not just been critical of United's players this week.
In his ITV4 documentary with Patrick Vieira, the Irishman also reignited his feud with Sir Alex Ferguson by claiming the Scot was still exerting his influence at Old Trafford, which was perceived as undermining Moyes.
It is true Ferguson has been fairly visual in recent times, travelling to Bayer Leverkusen recently, his first European away game since standing down in the summer.
But Moyes does not view his presence as a distraction.
'I can only tell you that in my time here Sir Alex has been fantastic towards me,' said Moyes.
'He has been helpful.
'Anytime I need something I can go to him. He has been very good.'

Spurs passion at shorten ticket allocation for press FA Cup conflict with emulate Arsenal

2013-12-13T12:44:00.000-08:00

Tottenham and Arsenal are involved in a bitter dispute after Andre Villas-Boas’ side were given just over 5,000 tickets for their FA Cup third round tie at the Emirates.
Furious Spurs officials have been forced to explain to their supporters why Arsenal are refusing to give the 15 per cent they are normally entitled to under FA Cup ticketing policy.
Tottenham are livid with Arsenal’s decision to grant them just 5,186 tickets - which equates to just 8.64 per cent of the stadium capacity at the Emirates.

One-up: Olivier Giroud celebrates his goal in Arsenal's 1-0 win over Tottenham when they met in September

Crowd pleaser: Lewis Holtby marks his goal on Wednesday against Anzhi Makhachkala with a swan dive

Arsenal claim it is a security issue, but Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has already hit back in a tit-for-tat row between the north London clubs.
Levy has informed Arsenal that in the event of a replay at White Hart Lane, Spurs will reciprocate and only give Arsene Wenger’s side 3,110 tickets.
A Tottenham spokesman said: ‘The the security issues cited related to safety in the Upper Tier, we subsequently requested an extended allocation in the Lower Tier.
‘We have been informed that this is also not possible due to segregation and safety issues.
‘We appreciate that this will mean that many of our supporters will not be able to attend this fixture, but unfortunately the host club has stated it is impossible to increase the allocation offered to us for this fixture.
In the event of a replay taking place at White Hart Lane, Arsenal will be provided with a reduced allocation equivalent to the percentage that we have received at the Emirates Stadium.
‘Please note that following a rule change the pricing for FA Cup games is set exclusively by the home club.’

Keep out: Only 5,186 tickets will be allocated for Spurs fans when they visit the Emirates for the FA Cup

Tit-for-tat: Spurs have stated that if there's a replay, Arsenal fans will get the same allocation at White Hart Lane

Pellegrini's Munich bull is a scandalous cock-up that could cost Man City millions and millions', fumes original youth Hamann

2013-12-11T14:39:00.000-08:00

Former Manchester City midfielder Dietmar Hamann has described Manuel Pellegrini's Munich gaffe as 'scandalous' 'cock-up' that 'could cost the club millions and millions of pounds.'
Manchester City's Chilean manager, who has also been heavily criticised by ex-Liverpool boss Graeme Souness, failed to realise that one more goal against Bayern Munich would have seen the English club finish top of Champions League Group D... and they had a full 28 minutes to try to score it!
James Milner scored in the 62nd minute to put City 3-2 up at the Allianz Arena, leaving Pellegrini's side requiring a solitary goal to leapfrog the Germans at the top of the group thanks to a superior head-to-head record.
A 4-2 result City would have seen them avoid the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid in the knockout stages.
Leading goalscorer Sergio Aguero was left sitting on the bench as Pellegrini waited until the 88th minute to make his final substitution, replacing striker Edin Dzeko with midfielder Jack Rodwell.
Hamann, 44, speaking exclusively to talkSPORT, said: 'It’s a cock up. It shouldn’t have happened. The whole of the City coaching staff haven’t bathed themselves in any glory

Pellegrini unaware City needed one more goal to overtake Bayern

PELLEGRINI POST-MATCH INTERVIEW

SKY SPORTS: You're 3-2 up, you've got quite a bit of time to get this goal which would have topped the group, were you not tempted to put on (Sergio) Aguero, your best striker?

PELLEGRINI: I was tempted if we scored the fourth goal of course, that's why I sent out Aguero to warm up but also I think that it was a risk to continue with (David) Silva, he can't play more than 70 minutes.

'Bayern Munich earned £60million odd by winning the Champions League. Winning the last-16 or going out will cost millions and millions of pounds.
'If Man City had won the group they would have faced Basel, Schalke, Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiakos, Zenit St Petersburg or Porto and, with no disrespect to those teams, they would have had a bye into the quarter-finals. As it happens, there is a big question mark over whether they will be there.'
'It’s a great win for them (Man City) but another goal would have made a huge difference. City will now face Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid or PSG, if Chelsea and Arsenal win their groups.'
Hamann, who also played for Bayern Munich, Newcastle and Liverpool, added that Pellegrini's backroom team should 'houlder some of the blame.
'I’m sorry Mr Pellegrini, but a manager is only as good as his backroom staff,' he told talkSPORT host Colin Murray. 'He must have had nine people behind him and for none of them to know and make him aware that another goal would have put them top is ridiculous. It’s scandalous.
'Players can’t tap on the manager’s shoulder and say: "Listen gaffer you’ve got to bring Aguero on because if we get one more goal, we’ll win the group". One of the coaches have to do that.
Souness, working as a pundit on Sky Sports, was equally critical. He said: ‘I’m not sure he’s understanding the goal difference here. It has to be the strangest substitution this season in taking off Dzeko, a centre forward, and putting on Rodwell, who at best is an attacking midfielder.

Confusion: Pellegrini said he was tempted to bring Aguero on if City scored the fourth, but they only needed one

Mishap: Pellegrini brought off Edin Dzeko in the closing stages and brought on Jack Rodwell

'I would suggest that they've not spoken about it and he wasn't aware. Maybe the guys he's sitting with on the bench, Brian Kidd and his other coach, had not spoken about it and weren't aware that 4-2 gets them through.
'When he says (in his post-match interview), 'if we'd got another goal, I'd told Aguero to warm up', it tells you he's thinking he needs to get five. It was one of the strangest substitutions I've seen in a long time.'
Pellegrini admitted that he would only have put on Aguero if City had made it 4-2.

Man City could have gone through with another goal, based on their head-to-head record against Bayern

Second place: Pellegrini said it 'was difficult to score two goals' with the score at 3-2, but City only one

Turnaround: James Milner wheels away after putting City 3-2 ahead in Munich having been 2-0 down

TEAMS CITY COULD NOW FACE

Real Madrid
Paris Saint-Germain
Atletico Madrid
Barcelona/AC Milan
Borussia Dortmund
Basel

‘Maybe if we had scored a fourth goal I would have made the change,’ said the confused Chilean coach. ‘It was important to be first in the group but not the most important.
‘Arsenal on Sunday was a priority above this game. I said it was very difficult to win by three goals.’
James Milner, who scored the winning goal with 28 minutes left, said: ‘We’re slightly disappointed we did not finish top of the group.

No holding back: Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness

'We didn’t know if 4-2 would be enough or if we would need 5-2. We thought it needed to be 5-2 to be honest.’
Sky Sports analysts Souness, Glenn Hoddle and Sportsmail columnist Jamie Carragher were all left baffled by Pellegrini’s decision.
Hoddle added: ‘Does he understand that 4-2 puts him through (as group leaders). ‘There’s no urgency to make a substitution.’
Carragher said: ‘He must know he can’t play any English team and the ones left — Barcelona, Real Madrid, maybe Atletico Madrid — could be massive.’
Pep Guardiola said: 'I would like to congratulate Man C for this great victory. It is never good to lose again but maybe this club the manager and the team sometimes we need a defeat because we always win everything, in the Bundesliga, in Europe.
'We have started very well in the Bundesliga in the cup, we won in Manchester. You always think everything is easy, but Europe is very difficult so maybe it is good for us for Maracech next Saturday.

Mishap: Pellegrini brought off Edin Dzeko in the closing stages and brought on Jack Rodwell

'We played really well in the first 30 minutes. Then first ten mins in second half Manchester City were better than us. In general we are satisfied for Bayern.
'I hope we can see how difficult it is playing in Europe, sometimes things like this happen and we have to understand and learn our lessons from this. We have to understand how difficult it is to win all the time, so we are ready for the knockout stages.
'We have got to realise we can also lose. We are a great team, a super team but we can also lose, because the other teams are good.
'They started really well, they were really focussed. But if you are not in control of the game... the passes between our players were not good, we must use the ball better and do something with it.
'Manchester City are not a bad team, you cannot score against them with just 2-3 touches.
'They shot 4 times on our go, in the first 15 minutes of the second half they were better than us, just that little period, maybe we were level for the last 15 of the first half. The rest of the time we were better.'

THIS ISN'T THE FIRST TIME IT'S HAPPENED TO CITY... REWIND TO 1996

A similar incident resulted in Manchester City's relegation in the 1995-96 season, with Alan Ball in charge at Maine Road.
Battling against relegation and playing Liverpool on the final day of the season, City conceded two own-goals before drawing level through Uwe Rosler and Kit Symons.
World Cup winner Ball knew his side needed to do better than Southampton and Coventry to survive - so when he got word that Wimbledon were beating Saints late on he instructed City to play out time.
Steve Lomas was playing keep ball near the corner flag when the recently substituted Niall Quinn ran out of the tunnel to tell his team-mates otherwise - Wimbledon were not winning.
But it was too late to find a winner, and City were relegated. Ball (below) left the club three games into the following season in Division One.

GERARD BRAND

Napoli 2 Arsenal 0: Higuain and Callejon sink 10-mankind Gunners to bestow them help below Dortmund

2013-12-11T14:27:00.000-08:00

This is not the way Arsene Wenger would have wanted it, but Arsenal have done it. They are through to the knockout stages on a night of drama.
Even when Arsenal threatened to lose their grip on this game after Mikel Arteta’s dismissal 15 minutes from time, they somehow held out.
They lived dangerously at times and were reduced to 10 men two minutes after Gonzalo Higuain had put Napoli in front.

Distraught: Napoli goalscorer Gonzalo Higuain (left) shed a few tears after the final whistle

Pick that one out: Gonzalo Higuain celebrates after opening the scoring with little under 20 minutes to play

Match facts

Napoli: Barbosa, Maggio, Armero, Behrami, Fernandez, Albiol, Mertens, Dzemaili, Higuain, Pandev (Insigne 57), Callejon
Subs not used: Uvini, Britos, Colombo, Cannavaro, Inler, Zapata
Booked: Mertens, Dzemaili, Fernandez
Goal: Higuain 73, Callejon 90
Arsenal: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Gibbs, Arteta, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Rosicky (Monreal 74), Flamini, Giroud, Ozil, Cazorla (Ramsey 67)
Subs not used: Vermaelen, Wilshere, Walcott, Monreal, Fabianski, Bendtner
Booked: Arteta, Giroud, Ramsey
Sent off: Arteta 76
Referee: Viktor Kassai
Attendance: 47,000

Arteta was sent off for a second booking, a needless challenge that means he will miss their next game in the Champions League.
At least they are still in it, though they must have had the jitters after Jose Callejon was played through and lifted the ball over the onrushing Wojciech Szczesny in added time.
A third Napoli goal would have put Arsenal out but luckily for Arsene Wenger’s nerves, the referee blew the final whistle immediately after the restart.
Arsenal will be bruised after this defeat, particularly after they played with such composure until Higuain seized on his first real chance of the game in the 73rd minute.
It wasn’t enough, it was never going to be, but it reminded Arsenal of the dangers ahead. They cannot be this haphazard in the next phase.
At times they escaped and they did eventually crack, but that’s the way it works in the Champions League: hold your nerve and you will be in the hat for the next round.
The Stadio San Paolo is one of the great European football stadiums, a vast concrete bowl without a hint of corporate greed or extravagance in sight. It’s all so raw, with giant Neapolitan flags waving behind each goal and their hysterical fans whistling whenever Arsenal took a touch.

Tormentor: Higuain almost signed for Arsenal in the summer, but netted a neat finish to send them 1-0 down

Scramble: Per Mertesacker (left) and Mathieu Flamini are left flailing as Higuain aims for goal

Pulling the trigger: Higuain aims for Wojciech Szczesny's bottom-left corner to score the opener

Wenger’s team wound them up, sending Napoli’s fans into a frenzy by repeatedly passing the ball back to the feet of Szczesny. It was stirring stuff.
These were highly unusual tactics for Arsenal but hugely effective, taking the sting out of the occasion as they searched for some rhythm in this final group game.
Wenger promised that his team would attack as they targeted 15 points and first place in this toughest of sections. But at times his players seemed uncertain of their role, a rare phenomenon for a team that traditionally only knows one way to play.

Touch of class: Lorenzo Insigne (No 24) found Callejon (No 7) who lifted the ball over Szczesny

Juxtaposition: Moments after urging on his team-mates to make it 3-0 (right) Callejon drops to his knees after realising his side's fine performance was not enough to send Napoli into the knock-out

Per Mertesacker was the outstanding figure in the Arsenal team, rising to the occasion with another towering performance. He made two crucial interceptions, calculating perfectly before sliding into the ball to clear the danger.
When he fooled Callejon by dipping his shoulder and casually laying the ball off to a nearby team-mate, you knew this was going to be his night.
Even when he was stranded because of an unusual mistake by Kieran Gibbs down the left, he was alert enough to stand his ground in the centre of the defence as Goran Pandev shot straight at Szczesny.

Marching orders: Mikel Arteta was sent off after picking up two needless bookings

Frustration: Olivier Giroud reacts after Arsenal spurn a chance during the early stages of the game

Up for it: Valon Behrami beats Mesut Ozil to the punch in the final group game in Naples

Close call: Napoli are the first team ever to go out of the group stages with 12 points

Gibbs offers so much going forward with his eye-catching runs, nullifying the threat of Napoli’s pesky wingers with his attacking instincts down the left. But twice he got caught straying from his position on a night when all that mattered to Arsenal was avoiding defeat by three goals.
Laurent Koscielny gave him a harsh stare and after that is was business as usual for Gibbs as Arsenal closed the game out.
There were moments in the first half when they could have gone ahead, particularly when Giroud was played in down the left. Napoli goalkeeper Rafael Cabral prepared himself for the worst but Giroud shot straight at him and he was able to beat the ball away to safety.

Strong armed: Laurent Koscielny throws himself into a challenge (left) as Gonzalo Higuain reflects on a miss

Physical: Olivier Giroud is wrestled off the ball by Raul Albiol during the first half

Familiar sight: Arsene Wenger (left) and Rafa Benitez (right) watch the game unfold

Hitting the deck: Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini appeal for a free-kick against Goran Pandev

But this was a cautious Arsenal team with one eye on Saturday’s trip to Manchester City and another on their game against Chelsea on December 23.
This performance was disciplined and focused. They showed restraint, reluctant to pour forward in case they were outnumbered on the break. When they were opened up, as they were in the second half when Pablo Armero was waved through on goal by Arsenal’s defence, Szczesny came to their rescue.

Tribute: Arsenal and Napoli stars joined to pay homage to the late Nelson Mandela

How quickly Napoli fans turn, venting their fury on the left-back after he failed to make the breakthrough. It is true, he ought to have done better.
Other than that, Arsenal did what their manager asked them to do — keeping the ball well away from the area and the obvious threat of Higuain — until Callejon put the Argentina striker in space and he fired home left-footed from the edge of the box.
Then came Arteta’s sending-off and Callejon’s late goal.
Dortmund’s win in Marseille means Arsenal, as runners-up, will face the likes of Bayern Munich, Real Madrid or Barcelona. But at least they are still there.

A tad late: Arsenal fans were dropped off after the kick-off in special fan coaches forcing them to miss the start

In the spotlight: Wenger makes his way on to the turf ahead of the game resuming after the break

He grieve £170,000-a-sevennight but Chelsea warrior Terry does his Christmas shopping at... Poundworld!

2013-12-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

They say fame and fortune can change the modern footballer but that doesn't appear to be the case with John Terry.
The Champions League winner, and former England captain, has won most of what the game has to offer but still continues to shop at Poundworld.
Spotted in the Woking store by Chelsea fan Jack Jeffery, Terry's basket was said to be heavily stocked, despite him bringing home £170,000 a week!

Bargain basement: Chelsea's John Terry was spotted shopping at Poundworld in Woking by Jack Jeffery

The store later confirmed that the former England captain spent £21.
'My mate asked him if it was OK to have a picture,' Jeffery said. 'He was happy to let us.
'It was weird just walking in there and seeing him. He had a lot of stuff in his basket but I didn't really see what it was.
'When I told my friends they were shocked and wished they had met him as well. He’s probably one of my favourite players.'

Luiz and Oscar back in action in Chelsea team training

Pampered? John Terry enjoys the luxurious surroundings of Chelsea's training ground on a regular basis

Decorated player: There is little the Chelsea captain (left) hasn't won as a player

And they said footballers were out of touch.
Given the many millions Chelsea have spent on Fernando Torres and Andrei Shevchenko in recent years, perhaps it's time Terry taught his paymasters how to shop for a bargain.
Chris Edwards Junior, trading director at Poundworld said: 'We were delighted to hear that the Chelsea star paid a visit to our shop in Woking.
'He obviously knows a good bargain when he sees one. Our store is close to the Chelsea training ground, so we hope Mr Terry has spread the word among his fellow team mates!'

Not the bargain basement: Chelsea team-mates Fernando Torres and Andrei Shevchenko were expensive

Chelsea 1 Steaua 0: Ba secures top spot for Mourinho's Blues as Schwarzer makes Champions League debut aged 41

2013-12-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

Jose Mourinho might claim to be afraid of the training ground dummies but he probably won't mind playing Steaua Bucharest again.
The Romanian champions were the perfect antidote for a Chelsea team with strikers who cannot score and are leaking goals at a worrying rate.
They stepped aside as Demba Ba opened the scoring after 10 minutes and had the decency to step aside on numerous other occasions but Mourinho's team were unable to add to the lead.

Flying start: Ba (centre) celebrates with Frank Lampard (left) and David Luiz after his early strike

Match facts

Chelsea: Schwarzer, Ivanovic, Luiz, Terry, Cole, Oscar, Mikel, Lampard, Willian, Ba, Hazard.
Subs not used: Cech, Ramires, Torres, Mata, Schurrle, De Bruyne, Cahill.
Booked: Mikel.
Goal: Ba 10.
Steaua: Tatarusanu, Georgievski, Szukala, Gardos, Latovlevici, Chipciu, Iancu, Pintilii, Stanciu, Parvulescu, Kapetanos.
Subs not used: Nita, Prepelita, Cristea, Tatu, Piovaccari, Neagu, Varela.
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi (Italy)

It did not matter. Steaua, despite the occasional reckless charge out of defence at a speed that suggested they were escaping a fire in their own half.
Their finishing was equally erratic did not force a save from Mark Schwarzer for 72 minutes.
Often the match felt like nothing more than an elaborate training session and the mannequins used by Mourinho in his defensive drills might have done better after all.
Chelsea got the win they needed to take their place in Monday's draw for the Champions League knock-out rounds as group winners and improved on their last European performance, a defeat in Basle when they failed to get a shot on target.
They will avoid the best of the Europe and that should give them a fighting chance of reaching the quarter-finals of the competition, which ought to save face considering they crashed out in the group stage last season.
Mourinho's broader problems remain. They were never likely to disappear simply by beating a team already out of Europe but the victory was important.

Tribute: Players from both sides join together to pay their respects to Nelson Mandela

Tap-in: The Senegalese beats the Steaua goalkeeper from close range

Smiles better: Ba capped a rare start for Chelsea under Jose Mourinho with a goal

Aussie rules: Mark Schwarzer replaced regular No 1 Petr Cech in goal for Chelsea

Targeted: A laser pen is directed at Frank Lampard during the first half at Stamford Bridge

Foot in both camps: Former Chelsea and Steaua man Dan Petrescu waves to the crowd

Acrobatic: Steaua keeper Ciprian Tatarusanu just beats Ba to the ball

Arsenal will face arch-rivals Tottenham in FA Cup third round draw... while Man United host Premier League side Swansea

2013-12-08T17:30:00.001-08:00

Arsenal have been drawn against north London rivals Tottenham in the FA Cup third round.
The game is the pick of the bunch, with other notable matches including last season's defeated finalists Manchester City travelling to Blackburn Rovers, Chelsea facing Derby away and Manchester United hosting Swansea.
Current cup holders Wigan will begin their defence of the trophy at home against Milton Keynes Dons.

The big one: Arsenal will face Tottenham at the Emirates in the best tie of the round

Jubilant: Wigan won the FA Cup last season against all odds by beating Man City in the final

Elsewhere, Liverpool will face either Oldham or Mansfield at Anfield, while West Brom v Crystal Palace, Newcastle v Cardiff and Norwich v Fulham are all Premier League clashes.
Oldham beat the Reds 3-2 in the fourth round last time and they will get another crack at Brendan Rodgers' men if they can overcome Mansfield in their second-round replay.
Liverpool also met Mansfield in the third round last season, with Luis Suarez's contentious second goal - when the Uruguay international handled the ball before scoring - earning his side a 2-1 win.

Tricky customer: Luis Suarez helped knock out Mansfield with a handball last season

The last time Arsenal won any trophy was in the FA Cup, in 2005, but to do so again would mean beating their bitter rivals at the first hurdle.
Meanwhile, United might have been hoping for a more favourable cup draw following a hugely disappointing start to the defence of their league title which has seen them lose five times in 15 matches under new boss David Moyes, with their latest setback Saturday's 1-0 loss to Newcastle at Old Trafford. United have won the FA Cup 11 times, but the last time was back in 2004.
In other games, last season's semi-finalists Millwall are at Southend, Brighton welcome Reading, Bolton take on Blackpool, League One leaders Leyton Orient go to Yeovil, Rochdale face Leeds, Ipswich clash with Preston, Bristol City take on Watford, Doncaster face Stevenage and Plymouth go to Port Vale.
Also, Barnsley host Hartlepool or Coventry, Birmingham meet Bristol Rovers or Crawley while Bournemouth take on Fleetwood or Burton.

Meulensteen claims Berbatov is 'fully committed' to Fulham after positive display against Villa

2013-12-08T17:29:00.000-08:00

Rene Meulensteen believes Dimitar Berbatov demonstrated his commitment to the Fulham cause with a sparkling performance in Sunday's 2-0 win over Aston Villa.
Berbatov was the lynchpin as Fulham ended a run of six straight league defeats, teeing up Steve Sidwell for a well-taken opener before coolly dispatching a penalty he had helped win.
The 32-year-old was equal parts focal point and playmaker as Fulham recorded a first win for new boss Meulensteen, who has replaced Martin Jol.

Happy again? Dimitar Berbatov (left) celebrates his goal against Aston Villa with Steve Sidwell

Berbatov's agent last week confirmed his client is 'not happy' at Craven Cottage and will seek a move in the January transfer window.
Meulensteen hailed Berbatov's focus in leading the line despite being unsettled, although the former Manchester United coach refused to discuss his star forward's long-term future.
Meulensteen said: 'I think the word is focus, anyone who has a good focus will know what the job is in hand, and you focus on the performance.
'He makes a difference. I thought he was excellent [in the 2-1 loss to Tottenham] on Wednesday as well, and today again you saw what he was capable of doing.
'I just had a good chat with him, he's not a stranger to me, we know what games we have coming up all the way to January, and he's fully committed to Fulham and the games we've got ahead of us.
'I'm just focusing on the games up until January.

Cool: Berbatov scored Fulham's second goal of the game against Aston Villa

'I couldn't be more delighted with his performance, it shows that he cares.
'The most important thing is that the players should be delighted with themselves.'
Asked about Berbatov's likely prospects once the January transfer window opens, Meulensteen said: 'I can't, couldn't, wouldn't and don't want to answer that, it's my decision to do that with the people who are relevant to discuss these things.'
Dejected Villa boss Paul Lambert was left to rue slim pickings for his side, with striker Christian Benteke's goalless streak stretching to nine games.
Villa also surrendered the league's second-best form record - a run of five games without defeat - in lacklustre fashion.

Pleased: Rene Meulensteen (above) believes Berbatov has shown commitment to Fulham

But Lambert refused to take his players to task for their below-par performance, admitting his men looked 'tired' in west London.
Frustrated not to receive a penalty for Aaron Hughes' challenge on Gabriel Agbonlahor, Lambert confirmed he had aired his views with referee Mike Dean.
Lambert said: 'I don't think we did enough to win the game.
'Where I'm disappointed is the penalty. I had just spoken to Mike Dean, my view differs from his. I don't know what anyone else thinks but I'll leave other people to talk about it.
'Gabby got a foot on it first, and it's moments like that that change the game.
'If you lose any game you're always disappointed, but you pick yourself up and go again.'

Meulensteen: We were even better and more positive going forward

Match winner: Berbatov (centre) was reported to be 'unhappy' at Craven Cottage

Brilliant Barkley is a cross between Gazza and Ballack, says Martinez after young midfielder outshines world beater Ozil

2013-12-08T17:27:00.002-08:00

Everton manager Roberto Martinez described Ross Barkley as a cross between Michael Ballack and Paul Gascoigne after the youngster’s brilliant display.
The 20-year-old showed his power, pace and awareness to outshine Arsenal's Mikel Arteta and Mesut Ozil on Sunday with a performance of real maturity.
He was at the heart of Everton's dominant first-half especially, which left Martinez enthused.

Always improving: Ross Barkley has been one of Everton's most impressive players this season so far

On the up: Barkley's been compared by his boss to Paul Gascoigne, Michael Ballack and more

'I've never seen a young English player with his sort of mentality,' said Martinez.
'I can see some (Michael) Ballack in him and some Gazza (Paul Gascoigne). It's fine for us to make comparisons but he is Ross Barkley. He has great balance, is good with both feet and is developing an incredible awareness.'
'You can compare him against any of the best young Brazilians, Dutch or even Spanish.'

Rising star: Gerard Deulofeu (centre) scored Everton's equaliser 10 minutes from the end

Martinez's side is now fifth on the ladder, two points behind second-placed Liverpool, after Spanish teenager Gerard Deulofeu - on loan from Barcelona - smashed home the late leveller.
While calling Barkley a 'unique talent', Martinez did try to tone down a growing chorus for Roy Hodgson to make him part of England's World Cup campaign next year.
'I have great admiration for Ross, he has incredible potential,' says Martinez.
'We need to give him time and need to accept that it will take time but he has absolutely everything.

Well worked: Mesut Ozil scored Arsenal's goal after Theo Walcott got his head to a cross

'The manager of England has to decide what role there is for Ross, if any, but we need to make sure we give him 50 games to see his evolution.
'Any players with talent need to develop their understanding and the know-how to be effective. As a country we need to be more protective of our young players but if we look after him he can give the nation something unique.'
In Barkley and Deulofeu Everton boast two prodigious talents but also have older heads in Gareth Barry and Sylvain Distin creating a perfect blend for Martinez.

On the up: Everton skipper Phil Jagielka is pleased with the impact made by the young players

'You can't have 11 young talents or 11 sets of old legs,' he said.
'We were incredible today. We played well (in the win at Manchester United) but were even better today. We have got over our mental block away to title contenders.
'This was a massive step forward for us today.'

Pellegrini won't cool it on the road despite dropping points against Southampton

2013-12-08T17:26:00.000-08:00

Manuel Pellegrini is adamant he will stick with his attacking philosophy away from home — despite Manchester City’s dire record on the road this season.
At home, the ability of the team is beyond question. Seven games; seven wins; 29 goals (more than four a match) and only two conceded. Yet away from home they have lost four already as their unflinching attacking strategy in pursuit of the title has proved costly.
Yet their draw at St Mary’s was by no means a poor result. Their opponents have only lost once at home all season and they deserve to be one of the top sides in the league.

Close but no cigar: Sergio Aguero has an attempt just go with of the post

SUPER STAT

Manchester City have only kept one clean sheet in eight Premier League away games this season.

After taking the lead in the 10th minute and going on to dominate the first 25 minutes that saw Sergio Aguero bury Aleksandar Kolarov’s low cross, City were second best for the rest of the game.
But when Pellegrini was asked to clarify whether he would persist with the style of play, he answered: ‘We try to play.’
And when quizzed about whether pursuing the home strategy on the road was realistic, he replied: ‘I think so, because a big team plays everywhere against other teams the same way.’

Do it this way! Manuel Pellegrini shouting instructions to his team at St Mary's

The Pellegrini point seems to be there was no reason that his team should not be able to replicate their form at home when they play away.
Playing one striker up front and packing the midfield with attacking and defensive midfielders has become fashionable in the top flight, particularly away from home where it gives teams a chance to control the game in the centre of the pitch.
Pellegrini has bucked that trend, preferring to field two out-and-out strikers, while also allowing his full backs to bomb forward often throughout matches.
It is a strategy that has been awfully exposed away from the Etihad — underscored by Southampton’s equaliser. Just before half-time Dani Osvaldo burst free on the left, with right back Pablo Zabaleta high up the pitch.

Stunner: Dani Osvlado scored a wonderful goal which he floated over Costel Pantilimon

Centre back Vincent Kompany tried to cover, but was twisted in knots by Osvaldo on the left corner of the penalty area before he cut back on himself and arced the ball towards the top-right corner where it clipped the underside of the crossbar on its way in.
That goal illuminated the reason why Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino paid £15million for the striker in August. Much had been made, up to then, of the player’s erratic temperament and his reputation for rowing and even coming to blows with former players and managers.
‘He won’t bite anyone like Luis Suarez, but he does have fire,’ mused Pochettino, who managed Osvaldo at Espanyol. He has a reputation and he deserves it. He is a player of character who is very emotional.
‘But he is growing every day and we are happy with how he is doing, regardless of his behaviour. He is a friendly guy, a good team-mate.’

Tough: Southampton's Adam Lallana challenges Martin Demichelis

The Italian international is expected to be included in his country’s squad for the World Cup in Brazil next summer and could well lead the line against England in their opening game.
If the 27-year-old continues to adapt to the Premier League and produces more stunning moments of brilliance, he will pose a real threat. Pochettino added: ‘It is a good thing for England that he is here, so you can watch him and see how he develops.’

Wenger fumes over Everton equaliser as Arsenal boss claims Lukaku was offside

2013-12-08T17:25:00.000-08:00

Arsene Wenger was unhappy Everton’s late equaliser was allowed to stand after Arsenal missed the chance to go seven points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League.
Gerard Deulofeu’s brilliant 84th-minute equaliser cancelled out Mesut Ozil’s opener as Roberto Martinez’s side followed up their win at Manchester United last Wednesday with an impressive point at the Emirates Stadium.
But the Arsenal manager, who was also unhappy with what he perceived as Everton’s physical approach, was disappointed the Spaniard’s goal was allowed to stand after replays showed Romelu Lukaku was offside in the build-up to the leveller.

Rough: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger claims Romelu Lukaku was off side in the build up to Everton's goal

Line change: Wenger made a triple substitution in the 68th minute in a bid to break the 0-0 deadlock

The Arsenal manager also felt the Belgium international had committed a foul on Laurent Koscielny with an attempted bicycle kick just seconds before Deulofeu’s strike.
‘I think he was offside and he made a foul before the goal but the referee didn’t give it,’ said Wenger.
‘But it doesn’t mean that we have to concede the goal because of it.
‘Deulofeu, you have to give him credit. He took his goal very well. You have to accept it.’

Leaders: Mesut Ozil finished from close range after a Theo Walcott header to put Arsenal ahead on 80 minutes

Blast back: Wojciech Szczesny's acrobatics couldn't stop Gerard Deulofeu equalizer on 84 minutes

Four Everton players were booked on Sunday and Wenger looked increasingly agitated by the visitors’ approach during the encounter.
And Wenger said: ‘I believe the problem is that they put very good pressure on us when we got the ball back to stop our flow. We had problems to get into the flow of the game but when we got into the passing, they stopped us every time with a foul.
‘And I believe the disadvantage of applying high pressure is that if you are not winning the ball back, you can be outnumbered.

Lay down the law: Wenger instructs right back Carl Jenkinson and Ozil on the sideline

'To make a foul without being punished by the referee is a huge advantage because after that you play ten against ten in one half again.
‘I feel overall that’s maybe a new problem for the referees because everybody puts pressure on the opponents high up (the field) and, of course, on the condition that if they don’t win the ball back they foul.’
During Sunday’s contest, Arsenal were drawn against north London rivals Tottenham in the FA Cup third round and Wenger joked: ‘I heard it was Tottenham. We don’t have enough tough games, so they gave us another one.’

Gerrard out for six weeks after Liverpool captain picks up hamstring injury

2013-12-08T17:23:00.001-08:00

Liverpool fear Steven Gerrard could be out for up to six weeks with a hamstring injury.
The Liverpool and England captain pulled up sharply after he attempted a shot at goal during Liverpool's 4-1 win against West Ham and immediately indicated that he needed to be substituted.
Gerrard is expected to have a scan on Monday to discover the extent of the damage but the worst-case scenario is that he will be on the sidelines until the end of next month.

Helping hand: Gerrard is helped as he limps off the pitch during Liverpool's 4-1 win against West Ham

SUPER STAT

West Ham have still not won in the league at Anfield since 1963. They have lost 30 and drawn 11 games there.

That will be a devastating blow for manager Brendan Rogers, who is already without key striker Daniel Sturridge for the most demanding stage of the season.
Gerrard will miss the key trips to Tottenham, Manchester City and Chelsea and could be absent for as many as seven matches.
This is in contrast to an inviting fixture list which has seen Liverpool punish the teams they would expect to beat at Anfield, the latest being this dismissal of the Hammers.
But a question remains: are they flat-track bullies or a team with genuine substance? Before 2013 draws to a close, the answer will become clear.

Rodgers: We could have easily doubled the four goals we had

Time's up: Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard signals to the bench that he should be substituted

With Luis Suarez playing as he is, anything is possible.

‘They are going to be tough but we will concentrate on the first one at Tottenham,’ said Glen Johnson, Liverpool’s right back. ‘It (a title challenge) is always in the back of your mind but the only thing we can do is get as many three points as we can.
‘If we are doing that, everything will take care of itself. But of course we are good enough to be up there, definitely. Any team would miss Stevie. But we have a good squad and if we can start scoring a few more away from home, it will blend in nicely with what we are doing at Anfield.’

Power: Gerrard pulled up sharply after attempting a shot on goal at Anfield

After Gerrard went off, Liverpool lost their shape, which let the visitors back into the game through a Martin Skrtel own goal. But Suarez ensured there was no calamity, scoring twice in four minutes.
West Ham’s hopes of salvaging a point disappeared when Kevin Nolan was sent off for a tackle on Jordan Henderson that prompted Sam Allardyce to describe him as ‘irresponsible’.

Man on form: Liverpool's Luis Suarez celebrates his goal from long range against West Ham

As good as Suarez was, another South American really impressed. Philippe Coutinho pulled the strings effortlessly at times and such is Rodgers’s belief in him, he has urged Luiz Felipe Scolari to pick him for the World Cup.
‘Felipe has just asked me to keep an eye on the Brazilian boys and any feedback — even from ones at other clubs — as I know him from my time at Chelsea,’ Rodgers explained. ‘Lucas has got into the squad, which was great, so hopefully Philippe can.’

On the run: Liverpool's Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho pulls away from Mohamed Diame