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Romeo Beckham chooses Arsenal over Manchester United
Despite his father being an Old Trafford legend and efforts to persuade him to follow United, it was Arsene Wenger's charm which saw Beckham Jr. support the north London club
Sep 28, 2012 9:16:00 AM
By Ryan Grant
Now we have all heard about Arsene Wenger recruiting young talent and bringing them up through the Arsenal ranks, but getting Romeo Beckham on board might be difficult to top.
Whilst his father David might have secured hero status after making 265 appearances for rivals Manchester United, nothing could stop the youngster supporting the Gunners.
It seems that, despite early efforts to turn Romeo into a true Red Devil, David Beckham chose the wrong time to take his son to an Arsenal game. Is there anyone who has not been impressed by their unbeaten start to the season?
"I tried to get Manchester United shirts on them early," Beckham told Shortlist.
"Two of them are Manchester United fans and one is an Arsenal fan. I don't know how it happened.
"Actually, I do know how it happened.
"I took Romeo to an Arsenal game and Arsene Wenger treated him so well - gave him a shirt with his name on the back and his favourite number.
"I let them support whoever they want."
Extra Time wonders what he would say if Harper goes on to support Manchester City. Wow.
'We were tremendous' - Villas-Boas hails Tottenham after historic win over Manchester United
The Portuguese said his charges "can be proud" after claiming victory at the Theatre of Dreams for the first time in 23 years, before urging concentration on coming games
Villas-Boas & Tottenham in anything but turmoil after famous Old Trafford win
Portuguese gets his tactics and selection spot on as he guides Spurs to their first win at the Theatre of Dreams in 23 years in his finest moment in English football
Arsenal can rely on me, says young goalkeeper Martinez
Speaking after his debut for the Gunners in the League Cup, the Argentine revealed his aspirations to become an integral part of Arsene Wenger's squad
Manchester United 2-3 Tottenham: Vertonghen, Dempsey & Bale on target as Spurs weather second-half storm
Sir Alex Ferguson's side mounted a valiant second-half fightback but it all proved to be in vain as the north Londoners ended their 23-year winless run at Old Trafford
Rodgers hails 'wonderful talent' Suarez after hat-trick at Norwich
The Liverpool boss was delighted with the striker's showing, which helped register their first Premier League win of the season, but was unhappy with a contentious penalty decision
Chelsea boss Di Matteo hails Terry's 'leadership qualities' after Arsenal win
The Italian believes his decision to pick his captain a day after he was banned and fined by the FA for using racist language was vindicated by another commanding performance
Norwich 2-5 Liverpool: Suarez steals the show as hat-trick helps Reds smash Canaries
Brendan Rodgers' side claimed their first three points of the season with the Uruguayan striker once again running riot at Carrow Road leaving Chris Hughton still without a win
Fulham 1-2 Manchester Ciy: Aguero & Dzeko strike as champions come from behind
The Bosnian forward scored in the 86th minute to hand Roberto Mancini's side a late win following a questionable penalty award to the hosts from referee Mark Halsey
Torres determined to fight for title after Chelsea beat Arsenal to stay top
The Spain international scored the first goal of the game as the Blues earned a hard-fought victory over the Gunners to keep their number one spot in the Premier League
Villas-Boas: It is impossible to discuss Sir Alex Ferguson's influence on referees
The Portuguese boss has admitted he fears being charged by the Football Association should he talk about the Manchester United manager's relationship with officials
Vidic was never 100% fit to return for Manchester United, says Sir Alex Ferguson
The 30-year-old centre-back is sidelined again after undergoing surgery and his manager has admitted he did not feel he had ever fully recovered from his previous injury
Arsenal 1-2 Chelsea: Torres & Mata on target as Blues extend lead at the top
A Spanish double helped the European champions to victory at the Emirates and inflicted a first defeat of the season on the Gunners, despite Gervinho's strike
Arsenal wanted to sign Hazard, reveals Wenger
The Belgian could have moved to the Emirates, instead of Chelsea, with the Frenchman admitting he is an admirer of the 21-year-old who has impressed since his switch to England
England manager Roy Hodgson honoured with a knighthood from Finland
The Three Lions boss received the award thanks to his time spent as manager of the the Scandinavian side's national team during which they recorded their highest ever Fifa ranking
Liverpool manager Rodgers questions Downing's fight
The Anfield boss wants the player, who came to the club for "an awful lot of money", to show more desire after falling behind 17-year-old Raheem Sterling in his pecking order
Bale: Move abroad appeals to me, but I have never considered leaving Tottenham
The Welshman says football in Europe is something he would like to experience in the future but insists he has never had any intention of leaving White Hart Lane
Sir Alex Ferguson unsure of best Manchester United strike partnership
The Scottish manager believes the current forward options are the best at Old Trafford since 1999, but stated that both Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie need time to build fitness
Van Persie: I chose Manchester United because they are a perfect match for me
The 29-year-old Dutch striker says he has put all the disappointment in his career behind him and also revealed the decision behind his new shirt number at Old Trafford
Waddle backs Tottenham to finish in top four under Villas-Boas
The former England international has tipped his old club to finish in the Champions League qualification places, while hinting that they could pick up a result at Old Trafford
Darren Fletcher emerges from his private hell to resume role as Manchester United's Braveheart
The 28-year-old midfielder made his first start for the Red Devils since November last year in the League Cup win over Newcastle and is set to play a key role this season
Podolski: Arsenal must forget Van Persie & Song, and look forward with Giroud & Cazorla
The 27-year-old admits 'it would have been better' if the duo had stayed at the Emirates, but insists the future is bright for the Gunners and their summer arrivals
Barnes tips Liverpool to finish above Everton
The former Anfield legend still believes that despite their slow start to the league this season, that they will eventually overhaul David Moyes' side
Rodgers needs Norwich result to ensure Liverpool honeymoon period continues
The Northern Irishman is still seeking his first Premier League win as Reds boss but has the perfect opportunity to seize it when his side travel to Carrow Road on Saturday
Wenger admits he nearly sold Mannone in the summer
The Italian has impressed while standing in for first-choice Wojciech Szczesny in recent weeks but the Frenchman admits he would have been free to leave the club just months ago
'It's an insult to the game’ - Sir Alex Ferguson slams allocated injury-time in Tottenham loss
The Manchester United boss was furious with referee Chris Foy’s decision to add just four minutes of stoppage time at the end of the Red Devils’ 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford
Sep 29, 2012 10:20:00 PM
By Sion Cleaver
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has expressed his discontent with the amount of stoppage time added onto the end of his side’s 3-2 defeat to Tottenham, describing the four allocated minutes as “an insult to the game”.
The Red Devils found themselves trailing 2-0 at half-time but two goals from Nani and Shinji Kagawa provided Sir Alex’s men with a lifeline shortly after the restart.
United were thoroughly on top for the majority of the second half, but Spurs hung on for a first victory at Old Trafford in 23 yards - and Sir Alex felt the referee should have sanctioned additional time.
"They gave us four minutes [stoppage time], that's an insult to the game.” he told reporters. “It denies you a proper chance to win a football match.
"There were six substitutions, the trainer came on, so that's four minutes right away and the goalkeeper must have wasted about two or three minutes and they took their time at every goal kick.
"That's obvious to everyone today and it's a flaw in the game that the referee is responsible for time-keeping. It's ridiculous that it's 2012 and the referee still has control of that."Despite failing to get anything against Tottenham, Sir Alex was pleased with his side’s “ fantastic “ second-half performance.
"It was quite a game.” he continued. “The first half we never started, didn't get into the game. From there we were just playing against the wind. The second half we played fantastic, just trying to get something from the game, and I think we were very unlucky.
"I think the attitude changed, that was the important thing. Wayne's [Rooney] ability does help but the attitude of the players was excellent everywhere on the pitch."
When asked about his side’s numerous penalty appeals throughout the game, Sir Alex admitted he thought Nani exaggerated a tackle in search for a spot-kick but refused to comment any further.
He added: "There were quite a few [penalty shouts. I think the one in the first half was a clear penalty kick, but maybe Nani made a meal of it and he didn't need to do that. He was clearly pulled back. "The ones in the second half, I'm not so sure."
Man United 2 Tottenham 3: Spurs cling on to take win at Old Trafford for first time since 1989
By JOE BERNSTEIN PUBLISHED: 18:23 GMT, 29 September 2012 | UPDATED: 23:06 GMT, 29 September 2012
Old Trafford is known as The Theatre of Dreams because of nights like this. Tottenham Hotspur ended 23 years of hurt by holding off a magnificent Manchester United fightback and for once nobody in the 76,000 crowd could complain about the steep cost of a Premier League ticket. With supersonic Gareth Bale unplayable and United veterans Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand struggling to keep up, this was a famous win for Tottenham's 34-year-old boss Andre Villas-Boas and left Sir Alex Ferguson, old enough to be his grandfather, plenty of food for thought.
There it is! Clint Dempsey scored Tottenham's third goal at Old Trafford
MATCH FACTS
Man United: Lindegaard; Rafael, Ferdinand (Hernandez 90+2min), Evans, Evra; Carrick, Scholes; Nani, Kagawa (Welbeck 79min), Giggs (Rooney 46min); Van Persie. Subs not used: De Gea, Wootton, Anderson, Cleverley. Goals: Nani 51, Kagawa 53.
Despite a poor record at Old Trafford – no win since Gary Lineker's goal in the 1989 Downing Street days of Margaret Thatcher - Villas-Boas promised to attack and was as good as his word, even though Bale spent last week on his sickbed with a sore throat and fever. Emergency left-back Jan Vertonghen and Bale tore Nani and Rafael to pieces down their flank, both getting on the scoresheet before half-time with Bale sprinting past Ferdinand for his goal like a Bullet train passing a steam engine.
By the time half-time substitute Wayne Rooney sparked an incredible spell of three goals in two minutes - two for United with Clint Dempsey's winner sandwiched in between - Spurs were just too far ahead to be caught. But what a fight United put up. Rooney hit a post, Michael Carrick struck the bar and Tottenham's 41-year-old goalkeeper Brad Friedel made excellent late saves from Scholes and Patrice Evra.United will point to a few penalty shouts, none of them conclusive, but few would begrudge Spurs an historic win, which left both teams in the pack chasing leaders Chelsea.
Happy? Andre Villas-Boas was delighted when his side won the match
...And so were his players as they applauded the travelling fans
'It was three points that I hope will serve as an inspiration for the future,' said Villas-Boas, who surrendered a three-goal lead against United when at Chelsea last season.'The way we played in the first half was unbelievable. We had so much authority and confidence, it is uncommon to see on this ground. 'It was a team who believed in each other and the focus and desire to take it to the end. Bale only trained one day during the week. He feels dead now but was magnificent.'Ferguson said: 'It was a quite a game. We never started in the first half. We defended poorly but we were fantastic in the second half and should have got something.'Wayne's arrival helped, but mostly our attitude changed. We got stuck in and went to win the ball rather than standing off.'
What a strike: Gareth Bale scored a classy goal to double Tottenham's lead
Close call: Both sides went hell-for-leather to take the win at Old Trafford
Tottenham have not had the best of luck at United in recent years. A Pedro Mendes shot that crossed the line wasn't awarded in 2005. Two years ago, Nani scored as Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes prepared to take a goal-kick he thought had been given. This time, Villas-Boas's side left nothing to chance. The game wasn't two minutes old when Vertonghen surged on to a Bale pass. The big Belgian didn't ever have the ball under full control but he didn't need to as United backed off and allowed him to shoot home with the aid of a Jonny Evans deflection.
Just checking: Sir Alex Ferguson took his United players in at 2-0 down at half-time
From the off: Jan Vertonghen scored an early goal to get the ball rolling
It was Vertonghen's first League goal since a £12million move from Ajax in the summer. The second goal after 32 minutes underlined why Bale is the most exciting player in the Premier League on his day. He collected from Mousa Dembele on halfway, powered forward as Scholes didn't even make an attempt to get near him, and Ferdinand's efforts were humiliating as the Welshman sped past and hit a right-footed finish beyond Anders Lindegaard.
The United crowd shouted for Rooney, recently recovered from a badly gashed thigh, and Ferguson hauled off Giggs at the interval.It sparked an incredible scoring spell, Rooney starting it off after 51 minutes by bending in a cross for Nani to score at the near post. But before the celebration had died down, Spurs regained their two-goal advantage with more suspect defending from Ferdinand, whom Ferguson has urged to retire from international football to concentrate on winning a new contract when his current one expires in the summer.Jermain Defoe forced his way past the leaden-footed Ferdinand and played in Bale.
The Welshman fired in a forceful shot that Lindegaard parried and Dempsey gobbled up the rebound for his first Tottenham goal since his dramatic £6million deadline- day move from Fulham. That body-blow would have killed off most teams - but not United. Just 60 seconds later, Robin van Persie threaded a pass into Shinji Kagawa's path and he slid an inchperfect finish past Friedel. A penalty appeal against Sandro for handball was waved away, Friedel made more saves and United threw everyone forward, including Lindegaard in injury time. It was breathless stuff, too breathless for some of United's veterans.
Call it a comeback: Nani pulled a goal back for United after half-time
Back in it: Shinji Kagawa got United back in the match by reducing Tottenham's lead to one goal
Fulham 1 Man City 2: Super sub Dzeko's late strike completes comeback for champions
By IAN RIDLEY PUBLISHED: 15:50 GMT, 29 September 2012 | UPDATED: 22:02 GMT, 29 September 2012
Crisis cancelled - for this weekend, anyway. Edin Dzeko came off the bench, scored within a minute and Manchester City had done what champions do: find a way to win from adversity. After falling behind to Mladen Petric's disputed penalty, City struggled for rhythm and penetration but Sergio Aguero scored his first goal of the season and Dzeko poached the winner three minutes from time. While deserved, it was not entirely convincing, though, in keeping with City's patchy start to the season that had seen them fail to win their previous four matches.
Match winner: Edin Dzeko came off the bench to seal victory for City
Get in: Manchester City managed to steal a late win at Craven Cottage
Man City: Hart, Kompany, Zabaleta, Clichy, Nastasic, Garcia (Dzeko 86min), Barry (Nasri 76min), Silva, Y Toure, Aguero, Tevez (Balotelli 66min) Goals: Aguero 43, Dzeko 87 Subs not used: Pantilimon, Lescott, Kolarov, Milner
Referee: Mark Halsey
They are the first champions of the Premier League era to concede goals in each of their first six matches and Roberto Mancini's premature assertion that they will retain their title looks far-fetched.Had Fulham possessed enough energy in the second half to repeat their early attacking prowess - of which they had plenty, even without Dimitar Berbatov - City looked ripe to wobble again.Mancini was not complaining, mind, except about the penalty, after Pablo Zabaleta had baulked John Arne Riise, continuing his early-season gripes about decisions going against his side.
'It was not a penalty,' the Manchester City manager insisted. 'It was not a foul and it was outside the penalty area. But the players kept calm and played good football. 'We had a lot of possession, a lot of chances and we should have scored more goals. We wanted this victory and we deserved it.'
Come here you: Dzeko ran to team-mate Joleon Lescott after bagging the winner
Get in: Sergio Aguero equalised for City just before the break
Here we go: Fulham celebrated their early lead against the champions
The game got off to an explosive start, with referee Mark Halsey - who must have been hoping for a quiet afternoon following Liverpool v Manchester United last weekend - at the centre of the action. Chris Baird swung out an expansive pass for Riise and as he turned inside Zabaleta the Uruguyan put a hand across him to halt his run. Mr Halsey ruled penalty - for a silly offence but an offence nonetheless and one few referees are brave enough to award. Fulham manager Martin Jol said: 'If you are playing for Fulham you would say it is a penalty. If you are a Manchester City player, it was soft.'In it goes: Joe Hart was beaten by Mladen Petric from the spot
Strong bench: Dzeko and Mario Balotelli (back) were sent on to turn things around for City
It's gone in! Hart was well-beaten by Petric's accurate penalty
After Petric had driven home the kick, Fulham's confidence rose. They might have had a second when Hugo Rodallega crossed for Petric but the Croat scooped his shot over.Joe Hart then held Riise's low 35-yard piledriver of a free kick. City bayed for a penalty of their own when Carlos Tevez claimed he was tugged by Riise but Mr Halsey was not buying that one.
The resulting sense of injustice served to galvanise City, however, and where it had been Brian Ruiz running the show for Fulham from just behind spearhead Petric, now David Silva was getting more on the ball as Yaya Toure imposed his muscular frame on the game.
First Zabaleta put in a low cross that Aaron Hughes almost turned into his net, Mark Schwarzer intervening on the line.Then, just before the interval, came the equaliser. Tevez sent in a crossshot that Silva turned goalwards. Schwarzer turned it aside but only to Aguero, who had a simple tap-in.
Class act: David Silva pulled the strings in midfield
Battle: Fulham clung on for the duration of the match before Dzeko's winner
Close call: Roberto Mancini watched his side snatch a last-gasp win
The second half was oneway traffic, City passing and probing, Fulham unable to get the ball off them. It became an absorbing contest as Fulham pressed and closed down, the visitors growing increasingly desperate. The winner looked to have come when Aguero glanced a header from Zabaleta's cross but just wide. Mancini threw on Mario Balotelli, then Samir Nasri - and finally, and decisively, Dzeko.
Clichy crossed from the left, Balotelli's goalward header was weakly cleared by Riise to Dzeko and the Bosnian lashed the ball into the roof of the net. It was his sixth goal as a substitute since the start of last season. 'We can't complain because they are a world-class team and we held them for 87 minutes,' said Jol. 'They were stronger than us and more eager to score.'
Now City turn to the Champions League, with Borussia Dortmund visiting on Wednesday.After the last-gasp Real Madrid defeat, the City powers that be will want to see a win or that crisis might just be threatening to assail them again. Such is the level of expectation now.
Arsenal 1 Chelsea 2: Terry the rock as Gunners lose unbeaten record
By ROB DRAPER PUBLISHED: 13:38 GMT, 29 September 2012 | UPDATED: 21:51 GMT, 29 September 2012
He pumped his fist in that familiar, aggressive fashion as he ran towards the Chelsea fans before applauding them as he received their unmitigated praise. But the show didn't end there. Off came the boots, as the captain made his way into the crowd, climbing over the hoardings and handing his footwear to two ecstatic boys in the front row.John Terry was among friends, perhaps a rare feeling this week having been fined and banned by an FA disciplinary hearing for using racist language.
Winner: Juan Mata's free kick was enough to help Chelsea to victory over Arsenal at the Emirates
Chelsea: Cech; Ivanovic, Luiz (Cahill 80), Terry, Cole; Ramires, Mikel; Hazard, Oscar (Moses 72) Mata (Bertrand 84); Torres. Subs: Turnbull, Azpilicueta, Romeu, Lampard Goals: Torres 20, Mata 52 Booked: Luiz, Oscar
Attendance: 60,101
Ref: Martin Atkinson
Eventually he had to turn back to reality, making his way to the tunnel, passing through hostile territory to the by now familiar chants of 'scum, scum,' although only from a handful of fans. And Terry could endure that easily enough. As is so often the case, he had won his own victory. His team had scored an important win and he had played well. For when his career comes to an end, he will not measure it in friendly testimonials from commentators: league titles, FA Cup wins, will dominate.
Possibly that Champions League medal will merit a mention, though the fact he did not play might be glossed over. But Terry, for now, marches on, unapologetic, leading his Chelsea team with him. Chelsea remain unbeaten, top of the table and already seven points clear of Arsenal. They are by no means flawless but there is a growing sense of cohesion about the club.
Again they did without Frank Lampard, fielding Juan Mata, Oscar and Eden Hazard.Perhaps unsurprisingly against a higher quality team they fared better than they did against Stoke a week before, none more so than Mata, the instigator of this victory.
Opener: Fernando Torres connects with Juan Mata's cross to put Chelsea in front against Arsenal
Ramires, too, was excellent. But Saturday's win was a mix of the old Chelsea and the new. There were neat dummies and the trademark reverse flick from behind the legs from Hazard and there were Mata and Fernando Torres, combining with Oscar in a more Latin link.
But there was also Terry's old Chelsea, the ugly, defiant one that refuses to let teams pass. For when Arsene Wenger spoke of a lack of 'personality and authority' in his Arsenal team, you could not but think of Terry. His human deficiencies are manifest, just as his footballing qualities are obvious. No Chelsea team under his direction would have conceded as Arsenal did on Saturday.
Roberto Di Matteo said he had considered resting Terry amid the controversy, but common sense prevailed. 'It was the right choice to pick him,' said the Chelsea boss. 'He showed his leadership qualities.'
As for Wenger, he was clearly infuriated. Had his team failed a test of their title credentials? 'Completely, yes,' he said. 'We gave the game away. They had three shots on target, scored two goals from two soft set-pieces.
Off and running: Torres celebrates with John Terry after putting Chelsea in front
'Defensively we were just not at the level you have to be in a big game like that. That's where we were punished. 'For the rest we showed quality, spirit, but we have to show more personality and authority on the goals we conceded. 'We didn't attack the ball, not on the first or the second goal. The difference between Chelsea and us on set-pieces in the air was obvious.
'When you play at home you do not expect to concede two set-pieces. It puts us every time on the back foot. We played two big games in one week and had to come back. It's difficult. 'Every time you are one goal down in a big game you have a 65 per cent chance of losing. We came back last week. We came back today - but straightaway give another goal away.
'It's impossible because you have to take all the risks and open yourself up.' It was a frank assessment but undeniably true, with Laurent Koscielny, brought in for Per Mertesacker - who had started the season well - primarily, though not exclusively, at fault.
Level pegging: Gervinho slams home the ball to score Arsenal's equaliser just before half time
For Chelsea's first goal on 21 minutes, a free kick from the edge of the area was delightfully lofted by Mata towards the far post.
No one from Arsenal attacked the ball and as Torres and Koscielny wrestled – literally – for the ball, the Spaniard found an innovative way of winning the battle: simply hooking his leg round the Frenchman to direct the ball home.
Arsenal kept passing the ball persistently and on 43 minutes, Mikel Arteta set Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain free. He found Gervinho in space after Terry and David Luiz dropped deep. Still, on last weekend's evidence, the Ivorian seemed an unlikely scorer, but he turned smartly and drove the ball in.
Pat on the back: Gervinho celebrates his goal for Arsenal with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
For Chelsea's first goal on 21 minutes, a free kick from the edge of the area was delightfully lofted by Mata towards the far post. No one from Arsenal attacked the ball and as Torres and Koscielny wrestled – literally – for the ball, the Spaniard found an innovative way of winning the battle: simply hooking his leg round the Frenchman to direct the ball home. Arsenal kept passing the ball persistently and on 43 minutes, Mikel Arteta set Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain free.
Back in front: Mata's free kick evades everyone before nestling in the bottom of the net
Chance: Olivier Giroud missed an opportunity to level the scores in the final minutes
Gutted: Mike Arteta is dejected after Arsenal lose for the first time this season at home to Chelsea
Yet you could sense the nervousness in Arsenal's defensive ranks when Chelsea were awarded a free kick on 54 minutes in an almost identical position to the one that had enabled them to open the scoring. Mata curled it around the wall into the six-yard box and Koscielny, caught in a moment of indecision, ended up deflecting it in. For Arsenal, Abou Diaby had limped off after 17 minutes, a thigh strain ruling him out for three weeks. Olivier Giroud's afternoon ended dismally when he sidestepped Petr Cech only to slice into the sidenetting.
No doubt Torres would sympathise.
Backing: Chelsea fans showed their support for John Terry who gave his boots to young fans (below)
Norwich 2 Liverpool 5: Suarez hits a hat-trick as Liverpool show style
By MICK COLLINS PUBLISHED: 15:51 GMT, 29 September 2012 | UPDATED: 23:08 GMT, 29 September 2012
Finally the real Liverpool, the version Brendan Rodgers promised he would mould, have stood up. Buoyed by a stunning Luis Suarez hat-trick — his second in successive visits to Carrow Road — and a team performance which made a mockery of their dismal start to the season, Norwich had no idea what hit them.
Up and running: hat-trick hero Luis Suarez
Match facts
Norwich: Ruddy, Russell Martin, Turner, Barnett, Garrido, Snodgrass, Howson, Johnson, Surman (Hoolahan 55), Morison (Tettey 79), Jackson (Holt 46). Subs Not Used: Bunn, Tierney, Ryan Bennett, Elliott Bennett. Booked: Barnett. Goals: Morison 61,Holt 87.
‘It was fantastic,’ said Rodgers. ‘We scored five goals, could have had a few more, and our control and domination of the game were very impressive. Right to the end, our work-rate and our intensity were good. It’s been a good day.’Whoever decided Liverpool would be prime candidates for a season-long fly-on-the-wall documentary may well have spent the past few weeks ruing their choice of club.Five league games without a win represented their worst start to a season for more than a century. Failure to overcome Norwich, themselves becalmed in the relegation zone, would have confirmed it as their poorest opening since 1899, but further punishment never seemed likely.Rodgers’ response to history’s threat was to opt for youth, making three changes from the side which fell to Manchester United. Jonjo Shelvey, through suspension, Fabio Borini and Martin Kelly all missed out, replaced by the teenage trio of Suso, Raheem Sterling and Andre Wisdom, with just 16 first-team appearances between them.
Hot shot: Luis Suarez scores his first goal
High jump: Suarez celebrates scoring
If Suarez’s hat-trick grabbed the attention, the poise and adventure of Sterling, Nuri Sahin and Suso were, in their own way, every bit as impressive. Liverpool’s cause received an early bonus when good, early movement allowed Suarez to slot the ball coolly past Norwich keeper John Ruddy from the edge of the area in the second minute. Suarez should have been further rewarded 20 minutes later when Leon Barnett hauled him down in the area, only for referee Mike Jones to wave his appeals away, mindful perhaps, of the Uruguayan’s habit of crying wolf in the past. ‘Of course it was a penalty,’ said Rodgers. ‘If Antonio Valencia’s was a penalty last week, of course that was, but he doesn’t always get given the decisions he deserves.’
Clinical: Suarez scores his second
Luis Suarez of Liverpool battles with Michael Turner of Norwich City
It became less important after 38 minutes, however. Suarez responded to a shocking miss when put through one on one by robbing Michael Turner on the edge of the area moments later and nutmegging the defender before flicking an audacious finish inside the far post with the outside of his right boot. The game ended as a contest two minutes into the second half as the respective fortunes of both sides were summed up inside the space of a minute. Norwich should have pulled a goal back within 30 seconds of the re-start as Robert Snodgrass moved on to Grant Holt’s knock down, only to conspire to make contact with his thigh, sending the ball high over the bar from less than five yards out.
On the ball: Liverpool's Steven Gerrard (C) evades Norwich City's Robert Snodgrass
Joy and pain: Norwich City goalkeeper John Ruddy looks on as Gerrard celebrates
While the home fans tried to comprehend that poor finish, Liverpool, still full of purpose, brought the ball straight out of defence. Suarez skinned the Norwich back four on the left-hand edge of the area, spotted the arrival of Sahin and pulled the ball back for the Turkish midfielder to crash home from eight yards. Suarez finally sealed his hat-trick, which had long seemed inevitable, 10 minutes later when Liverpool spread the ball wide before Sahin slid it to the Uruguay forward, who stepped inside and produced his third clipped finish of the day, again from the fringe of the area. ‘It’s a bad day for us,’ reflected Norwich manager Chris Hughton afterwards. ‘You can’t afford to give a very clinical Liverpool the chances we gave them today.
Hit man: Steve Morison scores for Norwich City
On target: Grant Holt of Norwich City
‘We’ve made some bad mistakes and added to our own downfall. That’s what’s disappointed me,’ he said. Steve Morison’s consolation goal, prodded home after an hour, was meagre compensation to the home fans, many of who had already decided to call it a day, sliding away from the ground with half an hour still to play. That they missed Liverpool’s fifth goal was a small mercy.
Sterling turned Javier Garrido inside out down the right flank and squared the ball for Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, whose shot deflected past Ruddy before finding the back of the net. Holt’s response three minutes from the end offered a brief reminder of Liverpool’s defensive frailties. Martin Skrtel committed himself horribly, allowing Holt to get behind him before clipping a shot beyond keeper Pepe Reina — but it was far too little, much too late.
Ronaldo's desire to become best paid footballer in world opens door to City and Chelsea
By BOB CASS PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 29 September 2012 | UPDATED: 21:30 GMT, 29 September 2012
Cristiano Ronaldo's ambition to become the world's best paid footballer is causing a growing rift with Real Madrid that has alerted Europe's big-spending clubs. Russian-owned Chelsea, along with Arab-backed Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, head the list of interested parties as the 27-year-old agitates for a huge pay rise to bring him into line with high earner Samuel Eto'o.
Show me the money: Cristiano Ronaldo (left) wants a better wage
TOP 10 BEST PAID PLAYERS IN THE WORLD
1 S Eto’o (Anzhi) £15.91m
2 Z Ibrahimovic (PSG) £11.54m
3 W Rooney (Man Utd) £10.98m
4 Y Toure (Man City) £10.34m
5 S Aguero (Man City) £9.95m
6 D Drogba (Shanghai) £9.55m
7 F Torres (Chelsea) £8.6m
8 D Conca (Guangzhou) £8.4m
9 L Messi (Barcelona) £8.35m
10 C Ronaldo (R Madrid) £7.98m
Ronaldo's salary at Real sees him 10th in the high earners' list at £7.98million net, around half what Eto'o earns at rich Russian club Anzhi.His immediate target is a 50 per cent increase to around £11.8million net. But the issue is complicated by Ronaldo's dissatisfaction at his image rights - 50 per cent of which are owned by the club - and Spain's revised tax laws.
Ronaldo earns £13.45million from off-pitch deals. That means he is effectively paying his own wages at the Bernabeu. 'I'm sad because of a professional issue and the club know why,' Ronaldo said this month. Ronaldo is governed by 'Beckham's Law', the regulation which stipulates Real must pay 24 per cent tax. But with Spain's economy in turmoil, that figure has been increased to 52 per cent. Bidding for Ronaldo would start at the £80million Real paid Manchester United for him in 2009.
Unhappy: Ronaldo said he was 'sad' about his situation at Real Madrid
Give it up, Rio! Ferguson tells Ferdinand to quit England and concentrate on future at United
By JOE BERNSTEIN PUBLISHED: 21:52 GMT, 29 September 2012 | UPDATED: 22:10 GMT, 29 September 2012
Sir Alex Ferguson has urged Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand to call time on his England career despite the vacancy left by John Terry's international retirement. The United boss, who saw his side crash 3-2 at home against Tottenham on Saturday, wants 33-year-old Ferdinand to 'concentrate on his career here' and has raised the prospect of the defender staying on beyond the end of his contract next summer. Ferdinand's England future has been widely discussed following Terry's decision to make himself unavailable to manager Roy Hodgson in the future.
Give it up: Alex Ferguson has told Rio Ferdinand to quit international football for England
The Chelsea captain was banned for four matches by the FA on Thursday for racially abusing Ferdinand's younger brother, Anton, in a Premier League game at QPR last season. The relationship between Terry and the older Ferdinand, once a formidable World Cup pairing for England, broke down as a result of the case and Hodgson left the United star out of his Euro 2012 squad, citing 'footballing reasons'.
But with Terry out of the equation, the way is open for a Ferdinand recall.Ferguson's priority is making sure Ferdinand, who has suffered back problems, is available for as many United games as possible and he does not want to see the player play for England again.
Gap: There is a space to fill since John Terry retired
Ferguson said: 'He could do the job, I have no doubt about that, but I don't see why he should. 'He should concentrate on his career here. It's his decision.' Ferguson also cast doubt on reports that the player wants to return to the international fold. 'I don't know if that is actually correct,' he said. Ferdinand, 34 next month, is celebrating his 10th year at United. Although his contract runs out at the end of the season and talks about a new one have not opened, Ferguson appeared to offer him the carrot of a new deal if he was able to play regularly this term.
Fearsome: Before their relationship broke down, Ferdinand and Terry were a brilliant duo
'Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes are still playing. If he [Ferdinand] looks after himself, and he is doing that well now, managing the situation with his back, there is no reason why he can't play on,' added the United boss. Ferdinand joined United from Leeds for what was a club-record £30million in 2002 and won the first of his 81 caps in 1998. Earlier this year, he admitted he thought his exclusion from the Euro 2012 squad marked the end of his England career.
Breakdown: Rio Ferdinand fell out with Terry (right) over the race case involving his brother, Anton (left)
'He doesn't get anything in games' - Rodgers sticks up for Suarez in penalty row
The Liverpool boss has come out in support of his controversial Uruguayan forward who has seen a number of penalty appeals turned down by referees this season
Sir Alex Ferguson suggests Ferdinand should turn back on England to prolong Manchester United career
The Scot insisted that if the 33-year-old central defender wants to earn a new contract to stay at Old Trafford, he should consider hanging up his boots for his country
Edin to the front of the queue: Dzeko delivers again to stake claim for regular starting spot
Mancini is getting the balance right with his strikers, but as the Bosnian won the points at Fulham on Saturday, eyes will be on his next move, as he juggles the four forwards
Hazard, Mata and Oscar prove Chelsea have the steel to match the style
The Blues' creative wizards have lit up Stamford Bridge with their brilliance this season, but on Saturday they also showed the desire to ally industry with artistry
'I don't know why he didn't score' - Wenger baffled by Giroud missed chance
The Gunners boss was left frustrated by defeat to Roberto Di Matteo's Chelsea on Saturday, and felt his new €15 million striker should have equalised in the last minute
Sep 30, 2012 9:30:00 AM
By Tom J Doyle
Arsene Wenger was left exasperated by Olivier Giroud's late miss in the 2-1 home defeat toChelsea on Saturday, with the Arsenal manager admitting that his €15 million signing from Montpellier should have a buried a chance to equalise for the hosts.
After rounding Blues goalkeeper Petr Cech in the last minute of the game, the 26-year-old Frenchman blasted into the side netting with the goal gaping, and the Gunners fell to defeat after failing to capitalise on a cagey display from the visitors.
"[Giroud] was in a good position. Why did he not score? I don’t know," he told reporters. "I felt [he should have scored], yes."
While Giroud's miss was a costly one, Wenger was disappointed with the lack of conviction in his defence, which allowed Chelsea to dominate aerially and eventually score twice from set-pieces.
He added: "I think on the pitch you have to jump for the ball. Especially on the first and second goal I don't think we showed enough authority to attack the ball and that cost us today."
Fernando Torres volleyed in after Laurent Koscielny failed to get close enough to stop him from a free-kick, and the French defender was guilty once again as he deflected a Juan Mata free-kick past Vito Mannone for the second.
Asked whether the dropped Per Mertesacker would have made a difference, Wenger replied: "We don’t know. That's possible. But you don't know. Maybe. Difficult to check. We can't replay the game."
Wenger was left frustrated by the manner in which Arsenal conceded, suggesting his side had done well to contain Roberto Di Matteo's men."
He said: "It was difficult, we played against a good side. Overall it's a shame that we gave the goals away the way we did. In the second half, the first time they crossed the halfway line they scored.
"After that of course it's difficult. They are always dangerous in the big games when you are always 2-1 after the goal you have to open yourself up, you are exposed to counter attacks and that's why we lost the game."
Despite the defeat, Wenger remained optimistic for the future, particularly given the spirit of the squad he has assembled: "I believe overall there's a lot of positives in this game and that's what we have to take going into the next one.
"I'm quite confident because we have a strong spirit and the team wants to do well."
Mata benefiting from 'logical' extended summer break
The 24-year-old feels his best is yet to come after being given time off following an exhausting year that saw him participating in Euro 2012 and the London Olympics
Pardew targets Newcastle trophy following new deal
The 51-year-old has big plans for the Magpies after extending his contract until 2020, and has set his sights on the club's first silverware since 1969
Dzeko pleased with 'important goal' against Fulham
The Manchester City striker expressed his delight at not only getting on the scoresheet but on helping the Premier League champions to their first away win of the season
Vertonghen and Bale delighted with Tottenham's 'amazing' Old Trafford win
The goalscoring duo are "ecstatic" with their side's triumph over Manchester United, the north London club' first victory at 'The Theatre of Dreams' since in 23 years
Gibbs enjoying injury-free run for Arsenal
The England international has pointed to his improved fitness levels as reason for the consistent form he has displayed as an ever-present for the Gunners this season
Arteta calls on Arsenal to bounce back from Chelsea defeat in Champions League
The Spanish midfielder has lamented The Gunners' inability to defend set-pieces against the Blues on Saturday, but insists his team can right their wrongs against Olympiakos
Ki Sung-Yueng targeting both personal and team improvement for Swansea
The 23-year-old South Korea international has vowed to drag Michael Laudrup's side out of their current form after 2-0 defeat to Stoke marked their third straight defeat
Real Madrid worth more than Manchester United, says Florentino Perez
The Santiago Bernabeu chief has also explained why he believes the voting system at the club is in need of an overhaul ahead of the latest presidential elections
Cech wants Chelsea to kill off teams after 'nervous' Arsenal win
The Czech goalkeeper has called on his side to become more ruthless and ensure that the Blues avoid the sort of nerve-jangling finish they encountered at the Emirates
'If you have great players, you have to use them' - Chelsea star Torres wants no rest
The Spanish striker has started every game for the Blues so far this season but insists that he is happy to take the burden after being kept back "too many times" last season
'Improving' Noble aims for England call
The Hammers midfielder is hoping that his Premier League form, which he feels is better than ever, will boost his chances of realising his dream of playing for his country
Newcastle boss Pardew reiterates England ambitions
The Magpies' boss has just signed an incredible eight-year contract at St James' Park, and reveals he would like to be in the frame for the Three Lions' job at the end of it
Evra: Manchester United deserved Tottenham defeat
The Frenchman was frustrated with his side's first-half performance during their loss to Spurs, and insists there can be no repeat if United wish to win back the title
'Signing of the summer' Santi Cazorla as good as Fabregas - Redknapp
The former Tottenham manager thinks Arsenal’s new Spanish star is on a par with the former Gunners captain and is the best signing of the season so far
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher eyeing Scotland comeback
The 28-year-old says he is up for playing for the national side again in the forthcoming World Cup qualifying fixtures after a long spell on the sidelines
Gerrard: Winning title with Liverpool will be a miracle
The 32-year-old midfielder has admitted he is extremely unlikely to realise his dream of leading his boyhood club to the title, but will not give up the fight
'When we score, he's like a fan' - Tottenham favourite Micky Hazard hails Villas-Boas' passion
The former White Hart Lane midfielder blasts a media 'witch hunt' against the Portuguese and believes Spurs can have a successful term after historically beating Manchester United
Terry treated miserably by courts and FA, blasts Eriksson
The former England manager has attacked the governing bodies for their treatment of the centre-back and, in particular, the delay in the handing out of the punishment
'He is a changed man' - Mancini hails Tevez return to form
The Italian boss has praised the Argentine striker's renewed appetite to succeed at Manchester City just 12 months on from his shock refusal to warm up against Bayern Munich
Di Matteo: Chelsea will be the scalp of European sides
The 42-year-old has warned his players that they will face an uphill battle in the Champions League this season against sides keen to beat the current holders
New Arsenal, same old story but reaction to Chelsea defeat will shape Gunners' season
There is no need for Arsene Wenger's side to press the panic button after their first defeat of the campaign, but lessons must be learned if progress is to be maintained
Sep 30, 2012 12:15:00 PM
COMMENT
By James Goldman
Fine margins often settle fine contests as Arsenal again found to their cost on Saturday, having surrendered their unbeaten start to the season against fellow title aspirants Chelsea.
Defeat, the consequence of diabolical defending in the face of two Juan Mata set-pieces, should not, however, represent a terminal blow to their pursuit of Premier League honours and nor should it trigger the sort of cliched, knee-jerk reaction that dismisses Arsene Wenger’s charges as soft touches.
This was an absorbing contest and although Chelsea just about merited victory and gleefully gobbled up the post-match plaudits, in truth there was little to choose between the two sides and certainly not enough to render one side as cast-iron title material and the other also-rans.
Had Olivier Giroud followed his dart around Petr Cech in injury time with a marginally more precise finish, no doubt the gist of the post-match postmortem would have taken a very different turn with talk of Arsenal resilience, determination and will the overriding themes.
Instead, the all too familiar criticisms – too nice, naive, not ruthless enough – were levelled at a side, who only last week were being hailed for the way in which they refused to accept defeat and came from behind to secure a point, having largely outplayed the reigning champions in their own back yard.
The Premier League table will not make particularly comforting reading for Arsenal in its present state. Already they trail pacesetters Chelsea by seven points and have been overtaken by Tottenham, but it is not Saturday’s defeat that will shape their season. It's more the way they react to it.
At this stage last season, Arsenal were still wallowing in self-pity after a tumultuous summer and only began to find their stride in late October, once the scars of their infamous 8-2 mauling at Old Trafford had begun to heal.
Wenger simply cannot allow the doubt to creep in again. Players such as Laurent Koscielny and Gervinho, for all their ability, are hardly noted for their strength of character, while the early evidence suggests Giroud is cut from the same cloth. The two Ligue 1 imports and the rest of their colleagues must summon a response, their manager must not tolerate a hangover.
A Champions League victory against Olympiakos is a necessity in midweek and could act as a perfect pick-me-up ahead of a testing trip to West Ham at the weekend which, will in all likelihood, tell us all we need to know about Arsenal’s credentials.
Upton Park. An early evening kick-off under floodlights. Sam Allardyce. The possible return of Andy Carroll. All the ingredients for a perfect storm are likely to be present – Arsenal must weather it and overcome it if all of the early-season promise is not to be swept away by a tidal wave of anxiety and self-doubt.
Two wins, three draws and a defeat may not sound like progress, but the results are not an accurate reflection of the job that has been accomplished by Wenger in maintaining a squad that looks to have most bases covered, despite the loss of last season’s talisman and captain Robin van Persie.
The dropping of points at home to Sunderland and yesterday’s reversal against Chelsea, however, means that room for manoeuvre is already at a premium. Nobody delights in lowering Arsenal’s colours more than Allardyce and nobody is more adept at exposing the long-standing susceptibility to set-pieces than the West Ham manager.
Santi Cazorla may have decorated the opening two months of the season, Kieran Gibbs and Carl Jenkinson have enhanced their reputations no end and Koscielny, along with Thomas Vermaelen and Per Mertesacker represent a solid stable of centre halves who have all impressed both individually and collectively this term.
A run of fixtures against West Ham, Norwich, QPR and Reading offers hope of a maximum haul and a much rosier picture as a result. A positive reaction is what Arsenal require, rather than a radical change of personnel or tactics.
It's not right! Biased referees give privileges to the English players, says Aguero
By SAM CUNNINGHAM and MATT BARLOW PUBLISHED: 21:42 GMT, 30 September 2012 | UPDATED: 21:44 GMT, 30 September 2012
Sergio Aguero has accused Barclays Premier League referees of anti-foreigner bias when it comes to spotting divers. The Manchester City striker is convinced that imports are more likely to get a raw deal over penalty appeals.
Ref justice: Sergio Aguero has raged at English referees
‘We just play our game and the referee’s job is to know who is tricking him and who is not,’ said Aguero. ‘There is a little bit of privilege with players who come from this country. Here in England, there are almost as many foreign players as English players and it’s not right that some have a privilege that others don’t. ‘If they do, it’s not good for anyone.’
Anger: Aguero, who hit Manchester City's first at Fulham, has expressed his dismay at British officials
Aguero spoke out after City team-mates Carlos Tevez and Pablo Zabaleta were denied penalties by referee Mark Halsey in Saturday’s 2-1 win at Fulham.However, Halsey did point to the spot after judging John Arne Riise was fouled by Zabaleta — a decision which also angered the City camp, who felt that he went down far too easily. Aguero added: ‘I try not to get involved with problems involving referees. There will always be mistakes for any team and here he got the decision (on the Fulham penalty) wrong.’
Fury: Manchester City were livid after referee Mark Halsey awarded a penalty to Fulham for Pablo Zabaleta's challenge on John Arne-Riise
There was also another diving row on Saturday involving Chelsea — 10 days after Stoke manager Tony Pulis reacted angrily when Branislav Ivanovic escaped punishment for going to ground. This time Chelsea’s Roberto Di Matteo was forced to defend David Luiz, who was booked for a dive at Arsenal. Home manager Arsene Wenger insisted: ‘It is the job of referees to stop them. It’s not my job. The referees have to punish them. ‘They did it, but it took some time for them to do it.’
In the book: Martin Atkinson cautioned David Luiz for diving
Di Matteo insisted he did not approve of diving or encourage it. ‘I am against diving, absolutely,’ said the Chelsea manager. ‘It’s something we should eradicate from the game. It’s probably not easy but if there’s anything that can be done we are for it. It’s probably complicated. ‘We’ve been trying to get goal-line video technology introduced and it has taken years.’ He also suspects Chelsea are already suffering a backlash from this reputation for diving, having been denied penalties against Juventus and Queens Park Rangers.
Seen them given: Fernando Torres falls in the area after a collision with Laurent Koscielny
Fernando Torres had a strong claim for a penalty ignored at the Emirates, where the most blatant dive of the day was committed by Carl Jenkinson. The young Arsenal full back threw himself down as he ran past Ashley Cole in the second half, trying to thrust a foot towards the Chelsea defender as he did so. ‘To be prejudiced on players is wrong,’ said Di Matteo. ‘We haven’t been given penalties at QPR and probably one against Juventus. ‘David Luiz went down but he didn’t appeal for anything. Sometimes they happen, sometimes they don’t, but he wasn’t appealing for anything.’
I got it wrong: says Wenger after Diaby fitness gamble backfires
By MATT BARLOW PUBLISHED: 21:55 GMT, 30 September 2012 | UPDATED: 21:55 GMT, 30 September 2012
Arsene Wenger admits his gamble on Abou Diaby’s fitness may have backfired piling extra pressure on Jack Wilshere ahead of his long-awaited comeback.Wenger explained his decision to sell Alex Song to Barcelona and refusal to buy a replacement by emphasising the return to fitness of Diaby and Wilshere, neither of whom played last season.But Diaby is out for at least three weeks after pulling a thigh muscle against Chelsea and Wilshere is preparing for his first game in 14 months when Arsenal’s U21s take on West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns on Monday.
Injury concern: Abou Diaby goes off injured against Chelsea
Missing: Diaby could be out for some time
'Diaby’s injury record is not good,’ said Wenger. ‘I was concerned about him of course. It was a gamble, but I was calculating as well that Wilshere was coming back, Francis Coquelin is here but was sick and Emmanuel Frimpong is back.'Tomas Rosicky is coming back so we have many midfield players. We don’t have many physical players but Mikel Arteta has shown he can be a great defensive midfield player.'He was outstanding in that area against Chelsea. We’ll see overall if it was a good or bad decision at the end of the season.’
Jack's back: Jack Wilshere is back in full training
Having successfully completed the pre-season programme without missing a training session, Diaby started the campaign in splendid form but limped off after only 17 minutes on Saturday.Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain came on with Aaron Ramsey switching to a central role alongside Arteta.Diaby, 26, has started 87 Barclays Premier League games since he arrived from Auxerre nearly seven years ago.
Positive reports: England assistant Ray Lewington watched Carl Jenkinson
Muscle injuries have blighted him since he broke an ankle at Sunderland in May 2006 and he knows it is crucial to prove his fitness in this the final year of his contract.Meanwhile, Roy Hodgson can expect positive reports from his assistant Ray Lewington on the progress of Arsenal full-backs Carl Jenkinson and Kieran Gibbs.The pair are flourishing this season and Jenkinson has sprung into Hodgson’s thoughts because England’s first-choice right-back Glen Johnson is suspended for the game against San Marino and Micah Richards, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all injured.
'You play some good games and everybody says you should play for England,’ said Arsenal midfielder Arteta, who have played consistently for many years without a cap for Spain.'Carl has improved tremendously in the last few months and he deserves a lot of credit for what he has done and where he is coming from but he needs to keep going and maintain the level, which is the most difficult thing when you get up to the top.'
Rodgers: Too early to talk about Sahin joining Liverpool permanently
The Reds boss praises the Turkish midfielder's start for the club following his loan move from Real Madrid but hints that his price and availability will determine his future
Wilshere return provides instant shot in the arm for Arsenal after Chelsea loss
The England midfielder has been out of action for 14 months but his 62-minute outing against West Brom in an Under-21 match represents genuine cause for club and national optimism
Wilshere returns for Arsenal Under-21s against West Brom
The England international featured for 62 minutes for the Gunners' youth team, as he made his comeback after a nightmare year in which he has been beset by injury
Gerrard: I'll play for Liverpool as long as I can, I'm living the dream
The Reds captain has just 18 months remaining on his current deal with the Merseyside club and hopes that manager Brendan Rodgers will offer him the chance to extend it
West Ham striker Carroll to start on bench against QPR
The England forward is set to return to action at Loftus Road on Monday evening, having been out of action since an injury sustained in the Hammers' 3-0 win over Fulham
Pardew sweating on Newcastle defensive crisis
The 51-year-old may have to call on James Perch to fill the void left at the heart of his defence after Steven Taylor was forced off with a calf strain against Reading
Crouch focused on Stoke amid England recall rumours
The striker has not played for the national team since November 2010 but has been tipped for a return after taking his tally for the Potters this season to five
Rodgers hails 'master technician' Sahin after impressive Liverpool start
The Ulsterman has heaped praise on his summer signing following the Turkey international's notable start to life at Anfield, scoring three goals in four appearances
Liverpool midfielder Allen in awe of 'top-class' Suarez
The Uruguay striker inspired the Reds to a 5-2 thrashing of Norwich City on Saturday, scoring a hat-trick and assisting one other as Brendan Rodgers enjoyed his first league win
Manchester City's Aguero believes domestic players receive 'privilege' from referees
The Argentine accused officials of being biased against foreign imports, after Fulham were awarded a controversial penalty on Saturday and the Blues had appeals turned down
Evra slams Manchester United's first-half performance against Tottenham
The left-back says that performing well only for 45 minutes "is not enough" to win the Premier League title and adds the problem was mental, and not due to fatigue
Selecting Diaby against Chelsea was a gamble, admits Wenger
The midfielder is set to miss three weeks after pulling a thigh muscle, but the Arsenal manager explained that the imminent returns of other players influenced his decision
Rodgers unsure over future of on-loan Real Madrid star Sahin
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 15:22 GMT, 1 October 2012 | UPDATED: 15:25 GMT, 1 October 2012
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admits he does not yet know whether he will be able to buy - or even afford - on-loan midfielder Nuri Sahin. The Turkey international, who arrived late in August from Real Madrid, has taken a while to settle in but has scored three goals in his last two starts. Sahin's improvement in form has come at the perfect time with Lucas Leiva still out injured and Jonjo Shelvey suspended.
Jumping for joy: Sahin celebrates after scoring in the win over Norwich
But Rodgers insists it is still too early to make decisions on whether he wants to keep the 24-year-old or even whether Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho would let him go. 'I don't look beyond the loan period because there are lots of things which will determine whether he ever came here (permanently),' said the Reds boss. 'One has to be availability. Jose (Mourinho) may decide after one year playing he is really the type of player he wants around his squad. 'Two: He might not be affordable. Affordability is important as well. 'We'd all love Lionel Messi but whether you can afford him or he's available is another thing. 'All I can concentrate on is Sahin coming in here and helping him become the best player he can possibly be.
Kop star: Sahin will spend this season at Liverpool after penning a 12-month loan deal
'If he finds he enjoys it here and he fits into the way we work, which I am sure he would do because he is a good guy and understands the game tactically and is prepared to fight for the club, then that is something come the end of the season we will talk about. 'But at this stage it is way too early. He is just starting to get up to speed fitness-wise but what he is is a real good guy and you have seen his performances. 'He has a wonderful left foot and the ability to score a goal and he was the captain of Borussia Dortmund at a very young age so he's got those natural leadership qualities.'
Knee-sy does it: The Turkey international has scored three goals in his last two starts
Liverpool's current captain Steven Gerrard insists he is not thinking about his long-term future just yet but believes he can play on beyond his current contract. The 32-year-old signed a new deal in January which runs until the end of next season but he does not necessarily see that as a natural finishing point. 'We will have to wait and see,' said the midfielder at a golf event for his charity The Steven Gerrard Foundation. 'I'm enjoying my football, I feel physically strong, and I want to go on for a long time yet. 'I love playing for the club, I love being the captain. It's living the dream, so to speak. 'I'm enjoying playing under Brendan Rodgers. The training is good, it's a very exciting time, and hopefully I can continue to play and to contribute under the new regime.'
Carroll set for comeback as Allardyce confirms Hammers striker WILL play at QPR
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 12:03 GMT, 1 October 2012 | UPDATED: 12:26 GMT, 1 October 2012
Return: Andy Carroll is set to play against QPR
Andy Carroll is set to make his comeback from injury against QPR after West Ham boss Sam Allardyce confirmed the striker will play at Loftus Road. The England international - on loan at the Hammers from Liverpool - has been sidelined with a hamstring problem for four weeks after suffering the injury on his Upton Park debut last month. But the 23-year-old has made a quicker recovery than expected and is certain to give Allardyce's side a welcome boost ahead of their London derby against struggling QPR.
Allardyce told talkSPORT radio on Monday morning that the striker is back in his plans and will feature.'He’s going to be back tonight,' said Allardyce, speaking to Richard Keys and Andy Gray Carroll enjoyed an outstanding debut, playing a key role in West Ham's 3-0 victory over Fulham before being forced off in the second half. One interested observer will be England manager Roy Hodgson, who names his squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Poland on Thursday.
I won't wait for Man United I want to face Fergie in Premier League again, reveals Mourinho
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 15:49 GMT, 1 October 2012 | UPDATED: 15:54 GMT, 1 October 2012
Jose Mourinho has revealed he will not wait for the Manchester United job to come up before heading back to England. The Real Madrid boss has made no secret of his desire to return to the Barclays Premier League.That has put the likes of United, Manchester City and Chelsea on red alert in their plans for the future.
Game for a laugh: Jose Mourinho has long flirted with a return to England
Mourinho has long been considered by United as they prepare for the day that long-serving Ferguson finally steps down at Old Trafford. Ferguson is believed to be ready to walk away at the end of next season - potentially opening the door for Mourinho to fill his shoes. But the former Chelsea boss has claimed that he wants to locks horns with Ferguson once again, which would close the door on a move to the Red Devils.
He told CNN: "The perfect scenario when I go there is to coach, because I think football will lose a lot when he stops and there are not young managers and old managers. 'For me, he's the boss. I call him the boss because he's the boss of the coaches and I hope that when I go back to English football he still manages Man United.' Mourinho refused to contemplate taking over at City instead.
He added: 'I don't think about that, especially because I have a four-year contract with Real. I signed it and when I signed it I signed it because I wanted to be in Real Madrid in this period of my career and I don't think in another club. 'I just say openly that for many reasons after this project, the next step will be England for many reasons, but when? I don't know, I don't have an idea and I am so happy to be in this moment as manager of the best club in the world.' Mourinho admitted that the price of fame was that he hated the public scrutiny.
Waiting game: Sir Alex Ferguson enjoys a joke at Monday's training
He said: 'If I could be a manager, a football manager, and the moment I leave the club or the moment the match finished, if I could switch off a light and become a person that nobody knows, I would do it. 'Because I hate my social life. I hate my social life. I hate not to be a normal father who goes with his son to the son's football match and being there with the other 20 fathers watching the match. 'I am in a football match of kids 10-12 years old and I have to be there, the people have to come for photos, the people have to come for autographs, the people have to come to insult me, the people have to go behind the goal of my kid and insult my kid of 12 years old. 'I would love to be with my family in the street as a normal person and I can't, so I am a completely different person in my private life.'
